Crossroads 2021 Holiday Edition
Magazine
Celebrating a
CROSSROADS CHRISTMAS A country home Christmas Fab Finds
Holiday recipes Weekend getaways Decorating tips Calendar of Events
A PRODUCT OF THE DAILY CORINTHIAN
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2015 Hwy 72 E. Corinth, MS. 38834 662-594-1877 • Mon. - Sat. 10 A.M.- 9 P.M www.JRwinespirit.com
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Crossroads
What’s Inside
Magazine
Aycock family light show brightens the holidays
2021 HOLIDAY EDITION
PAGES 8-9, 12-13
Food: Gifts of love made in the kitchen
EDITORIAL
PAGES 18-21, 24-25
Publisher
Stately downtown home comes alive on December nights
Reece Terry Editor
PAGES 28-29
Mark Boehler
Crossroads Christmas – Over 14,000 lights create movie magic feeling in downtown Corinth
Contributors Mark Boehler
PAGES 32-35
Carol Humphreys
Events kick off Christmas season in Corinth
Luke Price Brant Sappington
PAGES 36-37
Brandy Steen
Farmhouse Christmas home remains filled with grandmother’s love
Zack Steen L.A. Story
PAGES 40-41, 44-45
Calendar of Events
ADVERTISING
PAGES 50-52
Advertising Manager
Toast to good health with traditional wassail
Derinda Nunley
PAGE 55
Advertising Representative
Fab Finds – Holiday Gift Guide
Kenny Carson
PAGES 58-59
Travel – Disney’s legacy meets Elvis’ Graceland
Creative Designer
PAGES 64-67
Katie Krawczak
How to care for fresh holiday wreaths PAGE 70
ON THE COVER A light snow covers the courtsquare bench and the Christmas tree on the lawn of the Alcorn County Courthouse. Photo by Mark Boehler
Food – ’Tis the season for gingerbread cookies PAGE 74
Deck the halls with DIY decor PAGE 81
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The Aycock family drive-through light show begins the day after Thanksgiving and runs each night through Dec. 31.
70,000 synchronized lights Aycock family light show brightens the holiday season Story by BRANT SAPPINGTON • Photos by MARK BOEHLER For Crossroads Magazine
C
lark Griswold’s got nothing on Jason Aycock. Chevy Chase’s frustrated family man from the beloved Christmas classic “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” may have lit up the sky with his light display, but for the sixth straight year Aycock is lighting up the faces of children and the holidays of families throughout the Crossroads with his own music and light display at Walnut known as Northern Lights. This year’s program will feature around 70,000 lights synchronized to classic Christmas songs and popular favorites. The drive-through show begins the day after Thanksgiving and runs each night through December 31 from 6 p.m. to
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10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday at 601 County Road 118 in Walnut. A love for Christmas decorating began as a child when he would spend the day after Thanksgiving with his father putting up lights at his family’s Wheeler home. A software engineer by trade, Aycock became fascinated by videos he’d seen of computer-controlled light shows synced to music and saw a way to combine his love of technology with his love of the holidays. In 2015 he launched Northern Lights at the home in Walnut he shares with his wife, fellow Wheeler native Erin. Word quickly spread through the display’s Facebook page which began with two followers and today has over 3,600.
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ABOVE: Jason Aycock gets the light show ready for this season at his home in Walnut. LEFT: A sign instructs motorists to tune in on their vehicle FM radio. www.mycrossroadsmagazine.com
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Jason Aycock has around 70,000 lights synchronized to classic Christmas songs at 601 CR 118 in Walnut.
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ABOVE: The light show is from 6-10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 6-11 p.m. Friday and Saturday. LEFT: The entire Aycock family property remains covered in Christmas lights.
If you go What: Northern Lights Christmas Light Display Where: 601 County Road 118, Walnut
When designing the routines he often looks first for a driving beat. That first year they began with 6,000 lights “It really helps when the song has a good which has grown each year to this year’s total bass beat,” he said. of more than 70,000. He sits down with headphones and his comFor Aycock, it’s all about sharing the joy of puter and takes the song 10 seconds at a time, Christmas. programming each section of lights to match “The part that gets me excited is knowing that section of the song before moving on to what the kids are going to do when they get the next part of the song. here to see it and hearing their laughter when He’s often asked about his power bill but said they get outside the house,” he said. the use of energy-efficient LED lights means Work begins on the display in the summer he only sees around a $20 increase in his bill when he begins planning and programming for for the months the display is running. new songs. He heads out into the yard the day Aycock said he hopes those who visit will after Halloween each year to begin installing and experience the display as a time of joy and toconnecting lights and computer controllers. getherness and that’s what drives him each year. Inspiration for the songs and routines comes “It’s just that one moment when you can sit from a variety of sources, including friends back and not think about what’s going to hapand visitors who suggest songs to bring back pen and just enjoy spending time with your or new songs to add. family. That’s what it’s all about,” he said. From page 8
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How: From Corinth take US Highway 72 West to Walnut. Turn north on Mississippi Highway 15 North. In approximately 1 mile, turn left onto County Road 118 and go approximately 1/2 mile. The display will be on the right. When: Sunday through Thursday from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. through December 31. Aycock said the busiest times are Fridays and Saturdays, though the earlier or later in the evening people come the less crowded it will be. Mondays and Tuesdays are the least crowded nights and the crowds begin picking up more on Wednesday before peaking on Saturday. PAGE 13
DOWNTOWN CORINTH, MS
The Most Wonderful Time of The Year Christmas concert NOVEMBER 30 at 7pm
The Nutcracker Ballet Corinth Ballet
December Events s a m t is Chr ovies M
december 3-12
Movie Selections Include:
HOME ALONE
Christmas at The Coliseum Santa Photos and Market
POLAR EXPRESS
december 14
THE SANTA CLAUSE
A Joyous Noel
Corinth Symphony Orchestra
CHRISTMAS CARTOONS AND MORE!
December 19
Whose Wine is it Anyways? new year’s eve gala December 31
workshops, movies, concerts, performances and moRE! for more information, go to:
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Cooking up the
perfect present ve o l f o Gifts e in mad itchen the k
By L.A. STORY
For Crossroads Magazine
G
ift-giving has never been my best talent. If you get a gift from me, the odds are about 70/30 that I could present the perfect gift or a complete dud. Sometimes I manage to deliver spectacularly – like the telescope I got for my astrology-loving granddaughter – or I could just as likely get you a set of 1970s avocado-colored, crocheted tire cozies that I bought at the local artist market. Hey, I was on cold medicine that day, ok? It was not one of my proudest moments. Cut me some slack. That cousin will eventually speak to me again. We’re family so it’s a law, I think. The point is that I believe gift-giving is a challenge for everyone. I have found a couple of things to be true over the years. One is that handmade gifts are extra special – from the precious, sloppy handmade trinkets my children have made me over the years to the truly beautiful and useful items I have received. I think of PAGE 18
Making homemade gifts in the kitchen can make Christmas more special.
the art that my now-adult daughters have made me or the homemade body butter and sugar-lime foot scrub one of my sisters made for me one Christmas. I am still trying to convince her to make more. It was the best stuff ever. The. Best. Stuff. Ever. My skin was never so soft, nor my feet so smooth. The other thing I have learned is that food is a pretty sure bet when creating a homemade gift. Unless it’s gourmet fare, it’s usually economical to make. I started to consider the things I could make and present has gifts from my kitchen. CROSSROADS MAGAZIN E
I did some research was found roughly three categories. The first was more traditional items that people are familiar with such as Chocolate Chip Cookie Mix in a Jar, Peanut Brittle and Candied Pecans. The next category were really tasty items I would never have thought of such as Instant Russian Tea, Pumpkin Spice Syrup and Spicy Pickled Peppers. Finally, the foodie’s dream. The truly unique items to make such as Bacon Jam, White Chocolate Fudge with Cranberries and Candied Citrus and Homemade Chai Tea Recipe. www.mycrossroadsmagazine.com
I am not especially clever with my hands, but I am a good cook and recipes are my thing. I may not be able to draw or create beautiful things with my hands, but I know I can work a good recipe. That is just one way I know to cook up the perfect gift. I have included several recipes with such variety that I feel no one should have a problem creating tasty gifts. Enjoy!
Easy Homemade Peanut Brittle
(tastesbetterfromscratch.com) 2 cups sugar 1 cup corn syrup 1 /2 cup water 2 cups salted roasted peanuts 2 tablespoons butter 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla
Line a sheet pan with parchment paper. Set aside. Measure out peanuts, butter, baking soda and vanilla and have them ready. Add sugar, and water to a medium saucepan and stir well. Stir in corn syrup. Cook mixture over medium heat (don’t be tempted to turn the heat up!), stirring occasionally, until it comes to a gentle boil. Attach your candy thermometer to the edge of the pot, and make sure it is submerged in the liquid, but not touching the bottom of the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally until temperature reaches 250°F. Add the peanuts and stir the mixture constantly until the candy thermometer temperature reaches 300 degrees F. Remove mixture from heat and immediately stir in butter, baking soda and vanilla. The mixture will foam and change texture.
Carefully pour the hot mixture onto the prepared pan and use a knife or spoon to quickly (and carefully!) spread the mixture into an even layer. Allow to cool completely (at least 30 minute) before breaking apart and eating. Store the completely cooled peanut brittle in an airtight container. To make ahead: Peanut brittle can be made several days or even weeks in advance. It stays fresh at room temperature for 6-8 weeks weeks. To store: Store peanut brittle (once it’s completely cooled) in an airtight container at room temperature. Do not refrigerate as the moisture from the fridge will cause the brittle to soften. Store for 6-8 weeks. To freeze: Peanut brittle can be frozen and stored up to 3 months. Allow the brittle to cool completely and store it in a freezer safe, airtight container.
Create some tasty gifts in the kitchen this holiday season. www.mycrossroadsmagazine.com
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Candied Pecans
Italian Christmas Cookies
Eating by the handful is completely acceptable! (By Laurn Miyahsiro; Recipe by Maggie Chaplain, marthastewart.com) 1 /2 cup granulated sugar 1 /4 cup light brown sugar 1 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon 1 /2 tsp. kosher salt 1 large egg white 1 tsp. vanilla extract 1 lb. pecan halves (about 4 cups) Preheat the oven to 300°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. In a small bowl, whisk together the sugars, cinnamon and salt. In a large bowl, whisk the egg white and vanilla extract until very foamy, about 1 minute. Add the pecans and stir until well coated. Sprinkle the sugar mixture over the pecans and toss until fully coated. Spread pecans into an even layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes. Stir and spread out evenly again. Bake for another 20 minutes or until the nuts are very fragrant and are starting to darken in color. Let the pecans fully cool in the pan on a wire rack (the sugar will harden as it cools). Break into individual pieces. Store in an airtight container in the pantry for up to 2 weeks.
(thepioneerwoman.com) By Lauren Miyashiro; Recipe by Sloane Layton 2 /3 cup granulated sugar 1 stick unsalted butter, softened 2 tsp. vanilla extract 3 /4 tsp. almond extract 3 large eggs 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting 2 tsp. baking powder 3 /4 tsp. salt For the glaze: 2 cups powdered sugar 3 tbsp. milk 1 /2 tsp. vanilla extract Red and green Jimmy sprinkles, for decorating For the cookies: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the sugar, butter, vanilla extract and almond extract on medium until smooth and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Add the eggs and beat until combined. (The batter will look separated.) With the mixer on low, gradually add the flour, baking powder and salt. Beat until all of the dry ingredients are incorporated. Wrap the dough Chocolate Chip tightly in plastic wrap Cookie Mix In A Jar and chill for at least 1 (www.verybestbaking.com) hour or up to 4 hours. 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour Preheat the oven to 350°F. 3 /4 teaspoon baking soda Shape the dough into about 3 /4 teaspoon salt 36, 1-inch balls (lightly dusting 1 1/2 cups (9 ounces) Semi-Sweet Chocolate hands with flour, as needed) chips and place on 2 parchment-lined 3 /4 cup packed brown sugar baking sheets, spacing each at 1 /2 cup granulated sugar least 1-inch apart. Or, if desired, 3 /4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) butter or margarine, softroll each dough ball between ened your hands (lightly dusting in 1 large egg flour if needed) into a 4-inch 3 /4 teaspoon vanilla extract long log and coil each piece into 1 /2 cup chopped nuts (optional) a mound. Bake the cookies until Combine flour, baking soda and salt in small set and very lightly browned on bowl. Place flour mixture in 1-quart jar. Layer the bottom, 10 to 12 minutes. morsels, brown sugar and granulated sugar in Transfer the cookies to a wire order listed above, pressing firmly after each rack to cool completely, about layer. Seal with lid and decorate with fabric 30 minutes. and ribbon. For the glaze: In a medium RECIPE TO ATTACH to gift: Preheat bowl, whisk together the powoven to 375° F. Beat 3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) dered sugar, milk and vanilla exsoftened butter or margarine, 1 large egg tract. Dip the top of each cookie and 3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract in large in the glaze, allowing the excess mixer bowl until blended. Add cookie mix to drip off and then sprinkle and 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional); mix with the Jimmy sprinkles. Let well, breaking up any clumps. Drop by rounded tablespoon onto ungreased baking sheets. Bake for 9 to 11 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on baking sheets for 2 Cookies in a jar remain one minutes; remove to wire racks to cool comof the more traditional pletely. Makes about 2 dozen cookies. homemade gifts in the kitchen. PAGE 20
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the cookies stand until the glaze hardens, about 30 minutes.
Pumpkin Spice Syrup
(thepioneerwoman.com) By Lauren Miyashiro; Recipe by Erin Merhar My new fall favorite! 2 /3 cups light brown sugar 1 /2 cup granulated sugar, homemade or store bought 1 tbsp. pumpkin pie spice 1 tsp. vanilla extract 1 /4 cup pumpkin puree Place 1 cup of water in a small saucepan. Add the brown and granulated sugars, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract. Place over medium-high heat and bring to a simmer, whisking occasionally. Let simmer for 2 minutes to let all of the sugar dissolve
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and the spice to perfume the syrup. Reduce the heat to low and whisk in the pumpkin puree until smooth (do not let boil). Remove from the heat. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer into a storage container. Once cool, cover and refrigerate for up to 1 month.
White Chocolate Fudge with Cranberries and Candied Citrus
(Martha Stewart Living, December 2018) Rich and fruity, this fudge takes its flavor cues from the classic Italian Christmas bread panettone. Unsalted butter, room temperature, for brushing 3 cups chopped white chocolate (14 ounces) 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk 1 /4 teaspoon kosher salt 3 /4 cup dried cranberries 1 /2 cup finely chopped candied citrus peel, such as orange or lemon 1 /4 teaspoon ground cardamom Lightly brush a standard 9-by5-inch loaf pan with butter, then line in both directions with parchment. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, cook chocolate, sweetened condensed milk, and salt, stirring until chocolate melts and mixture is smooth. Remove from heat; stir in cranberries, citrus peel, and cardamom. Pour mixture into prepared loaf pan. Refrigerate until firm, at least 4 hours. Slice crosswise into 8 pieces. Fudge can be refrigerated, covered, up to 2 weeks.
Homemade Chai Tea Recipe and Easy DIY Tea Gift Set
(wholefully.com) 12 green cardamom pods 1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns 1 teaspoon fennel seeds 1 /2 teaspoon whole cloves 1 4-inch cinnamon stick 2 tablespoons dried cut and sifted ginger (see notes) 1 /2 cup loose leaf black tea (if decaf black tea desired, see notes) To Make the Chai Tea Blend www.mycrossroadsmagazine.com
1. Combine the cardamom pods, peppercorns, fennel seeds, cloves, and cinnamon stick in a mortar and pestle and roughly crush. Alternatively, place spices in a gallon size zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin. 2. Add the spice mixture to a medium skillet over medium-high heat. Toast until the spices are fragrant, about five minutes. 3. In a bowl, combine the crushed spices with the dried or crystallized/candied ginger and black tea. 4. To fill tea bags: Place 1 1/2 tablespoons of the mixture into a fillable tea bag. Tie closed. To Make a Chai Tea Latte 1. Brew the tea using the ratio of 1 1/2 tablespoons of tea mixture per 8 ounces (1 cup) of boiling water. Brew by either using a tea bag, filling a tea ball, or using a tea pot. Steep for 7-8 minutes for caffeinated tea, and 10+ minutes for decaf tea. 2. Add 1/4 cup milk (non-dairy is fine) and natural sweetener (maple syrup, honey, and coconut sugar are all good options) to taste. Top with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon. Notes: Decaf black tea tends to not be as strong as caffeinated tea. Feel free to add a touch more tea to the mixture (2-4 more tablespoons) and/or fill your tea bags and tea ball with more tea (2 full tablespoons). In place of the dried cut and sifted ginger, you may use crystalized/candied ginger, roughly chopped. Optional other spice additions: red peppercorns (for fun, festive color!), coriander seeds, allspice berries, and star anise. Have fun trying different combos.
Layered in a wide mouth pint canning jar: 1 tablespoon dried chopped onions 1 tablespoon dried minced garlic 1 bay leaf 1 /2 teaspoon dried rosemary 1 /2 teaspoon dried sage 1 /2 teaspoon dried thyme 1 /2 teaspoon celery seed 1 chicken bouillon cube 2 cups wide egg noodles Instructions for cooking the Chicken Noodle Soup from mix: Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Sauté one diced carrot and one diced stalk of celery until just tender, about 5 minutes. Unwrap the bouillon cube from the soup mix, and then add it, plus all remaining ingredients to the saucepan. Add in 3 cups of water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer until the noodles are cooked through, about 10 minutes. Stir in 2 cups chopped cooked chicken before serving. Season to taste.
Bacon Jam
A savory, chunky jam you can spread on a baguette. (Martha Stewart Living, December 2013) 1 1/2 pounds sliced bacon, cut crosswise into 1-inch pieces 2 cups finely chopped shallots (from 3 large or 8 small shallots) 4 small cloves garlic, chopped (about 1 tablespoon) 1 teaspoon chili powder 1 /2 teaspoon ground ginger 1 /2 teaspoon ground mustard 1 /2 cup bourbon 1 /4 cup maple syrup 1 /3 cup sherry vinegar 1 Instant Russian Tea /3 cup packed light-brown sugar (allrecipes.com) Spread half of bacon in a single layer in This is an instant tea mix that can be given as a large skillet and cook over medium heat, a gift in a large jar. It tastes like mulled cider. stirring frequently, until browned, 20 to 23 Original recipe yields 24 servings minutes. Transfer to paper towels to drain. ½ cup instant tea powder Remove fat; clean pan. Repeat with remain2 cups orange-flavored drink mix (e.g. Tang) ing bacon, reserving browned bits and 1 3 ounces lemonade-flavor drink powder tablespoon fat in pan. ¾ cup white sugar Add shallots and garlic to pan and cook ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon over medium heat, stirring, until translu½ teaspoon ground allspice cent, about 5 minutes. Add chili powder, ¼ teaspoon ground cloves ginger, and mustard and cook, stirring, 1 In a large bowl, mix together powdered minute. Increase heat to high; add bourbon drink mixes, sugar, and spices. Place in jars. and maple syrup. Bring to a boil, scraping Instructions to include with gift: 1. Place 2 up browned bits. Add vinegar and brown to 3 rounded teaspoonfuls in a cup. 2. Add sugar and return to a boil. Add reserved boiling water and serve. bacon; reduce heat to low. Simmer, stirring occasionally, until liquid reduces to a thick glaze, about 10 minutes. Chicken Noodle Soup Transfer mixture to a food processor Mix in a Jar and pulse until it has the consistency of a (wholefully.com) chunky jam. Refrigerate in an airtight conThis soup makes a great holiday gift, and it’s tainer at least 1 hour and up to 4 weeks. great to keep on hand to give when someone you love comes down with a cold. Continued on Page 24 CROSSROADS MAGAZINE
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From page 21
Spicy Pickled Peppers (By Justin Sullivan at Delish.com) /4 cup distilled white vinegar 1 1/2 tbsp. kosher salt 1 1/2 tbsp. sugar 3 garlic cloves, crushed and peeled 2 tsp. mustard seeds 2 tsp. fennel seeds 2 cups sliced peppers, such as jalapeño, banana or fresnos (approx. 6 oz) In a small saucepan combine vinegar, salt, sugar, garlic, mustard seed, fennel seed and 1 cup water. Stir to dissolve the salt and sugar then cover and bring to a boil. Remove from the heat and let steep and cool completely. Place the peppers in a jar or other airtight container and pour the brine over top. Seal the jar and give the peppers a good shake to distribute the liquid and aromatics. Refrigerate at least 4 hours and up to a week. 3
Healthy Almond Flour Pizza Crust Mix and Dough Recipe (Paleo, Gluten-Free)
(wholefully.com) For the Mix 4 1/2 cups tapioca flour 3 cups blanched almond flour 4 cups coconut flour 1 tablespoon garlic powder 2 teaspoons fine sea salt For the Crust (instructions to attach) Additional tapioca flour, for forming 1 1/2 cups mix 1 /3 cup warm water 1 /3 cup extra virgin olive oil 1 egg, beaten 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar To Make the Mix 1. Combine the tapioca flour, almond flour, coconut flour, garlic powder, and sea salt in a large bowl. Mix well to combine. 2. Store in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. To Make the Crust (instructions to attach) 1. Preheat oven to 450°F. Line a baking sheet or baking stone with parchment paper. Dust liberally with tapioca flour. Set aside. 2. In a medium-size mixing bowl, measure out 1 1/2 cups of the pizza crust mix. 3. Make a well in the center, and mix in the warm water, olive oil, egg, and apple cider vinegar. Stir well to combine. There should be no lumps, and it should form a wet and sticky dough. 4. Dump the dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Dust top with additional tapioca flour, and then, using clean fingers, form the dough into a 12” crust. 5. Bake the untopped crust in the preheated PAGE 24
Try something new this year to give as homemade gifts with Spicy Pickled Peppers.
oven for 4-5 minutes, just until it’s slightly solidified. Then top with desired pizza toppings. Bake for an additional 7-10 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and toppings are cooked. 6. Remove from oven and let cool for about five minutes before slicing. Notes ■■ The mix will store without issue in an airtight container in a cool dark space for at least three months. ■■ To make this a yeast pizza crust: When it’s time to make a pizza crust, in a large bowl, combine the warm water with 1 tablespoon of honey and 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast. Allow to proof for 4-5 minutes, or until foamy. Add in the remaining wet and dry ingredients, and stir until dough comes together. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp kitchen towel and let rise in a warm place for 30-60 minutes. Form and bake as listed. ■■ Both the mix and crust recipe double, triple, etc. quite well! You’re really only limited by the size of your bowl. We have a giant basin CROSSROADS MAGAZIN E
from Crown Canyon Home (shown in the video for this recipe) that I use to make the mix in. ■■ After making your pizza crusts, you can freeze them in either parbaked or full frozen pizza form. To freeze them parbaked, remove from oven after first 4-5 minute baking. Let cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap. Then place the crusts either in a gallon freezer zip-top bag (they should just fit widthwise) or in a large glass food storage container. No need to defrost before topping and baking. To freeze fully topped pizzas, follow the entire process through topping the pizza, then place the pizza (on the baking sheet) in the freezer to flash freeze. When frozen solid (about 3 hours), wrap tightly in plastic wrap. Then place the pizzas either in a gallon freezer zip-top bag (they should just fit width-wise) or in a large glass food storage container. Bake from frozen at 425°F until bubbly and golden brown.
L.A. Story is an author and contributor to Crossroads Magazine and Daily Corinthian. A former newspaper reporter, she lives in Glen.
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Bring Comfort to Your Home For The Holidays!
Wishing You A Joyous Holiday Season
Richard C.
Strachan M.S., D.M.D., P.A.
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CROSSROADS MAGAZINE
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Magic of
Christmas
Stately downtown home comes alive on December nights By ZACK STEEN
For Crossroads Magazine
F
ans of “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” holiday classic movie and the efforts of Chevy Chase’s character Clark W. Griswold may see some similarities with the Crossroads’ premier residential Christmas display. But that’s just fine and dandy with Tammi Frazier. “As a Christmas addict, I actually take that as a compliment,” said Frazier, who owns the downtown holiday destination with her husband, Dr. Randy Frazier. Throughout December the stately home on East Fourth Street in downtown Corinth comes alive PAGE 28
at night with dancing lights and festive music. Celebrating their fifth year spreading holiday cheer, the Fraziers started this tradition on a whim. “We watched the TV show, ‘The Great Christmas Light Fight.’ It was so interesting to see how extreme some of the displays were,” Tammi said. “We’ve always gone all out for Christmas, but we were intrigued with the dancing mega tree of lights in all of the displays. Randy ordered a few parts to do our DIY mega tree just to see if we could. At that point, we had no intention of carrying it any further than that one tree.” Thanksgiving weekend the Frazier family spent hours twisting light strands together to create the
original 20-foot tree that danced to the music. Randy has always been the show’s tech master and worked that first year to install a radio transmitter so the show’s music could be heard through a car radio. “The response during the first year was so positive, it encouraged us to continue,” said Tammi. As the family added to the show each year Tammi had one requirement. Unlike the TV show, she wanted their home to look as normal and tasteful as possible during the day before coming alive at night. “The one thing I do insist on – and it’s hard to hold Randy back on this one – is that we use the architecture of the home and the landscaping as our props,” she said.
CROSSROADS MAGAZIN E
“I’m scared of how extreme our show would be if we covered every inch of the grass and added hoops everywhere.” The show’s first mega tree was added in 2017, and another in 2018 with pixel lights capable of all colors creating a movie screen. “When the pandemic hit, it created a lot of extra time for us to plan what could be done to make 2020 extra special. We knew people would need as much cheer as possible with everything that was going on,” said Tammi. “The garland needed to be replaced, and Randy took this opportunity to encourage me to use pixel lights on the new garland to be able to have any color. It made such an impact on the appearance of the show to be able to make the whole house the same color or multiple colors.” The family has since created a pixel paradise incorporating pixel lights throughout the show. “We have wrapped the home’s columns, added pixel panels between the rails and in the top floor windows and added more lights to the shrubbery in front of the house,” she said. “These show video of actual movie clips and avatars, and the pixel boards in the windows look like video screens.” With the added technology, the Frazier’s daughter, graphic
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designer Erin, designed three different scenes and used projection mapping on the house. “With all of the time on our hands during quarantine, we built a PVC and corrugated plastic Christmas-themed house that received the projection mapping by Erin,” added Tammi. The family plans to add a new 24-foot-tall pixel tree to the front yard this year. Things may also be different in the “volunteer help department” this season. “It looks like we may have lost all of our help,” she said. “The show is as much of a family tradition for our family putting it all up as it is for those viewing it. With our empty nest, it makes it a little more interesting. We may have to hire some help for the first time.” With the tree addition, it will increase the overall property Christmas tree count to 17 this year. “All of these will be synced to the show except for one,” she said. “Our family tree is the only one not located by a window and it holds some precious memories in its ornamentation – this tree is very dear to me.” There’s one other family tradition away from the public eye.
“Our nutcracker and snow village is important,” said Tammi. “It is time-consuming, but it’s a must-do at Christmastime.”
Giving back
The family has used the show to give back to the community. After the overwhelmingly successful first year, Tammi and Randy’s youngest son Cooper, a junior at Corinth High School at the time, launched a food drive at the show. “We decorated ‘Big Red,’ our old ’86 Chevy pickup, and as those who came to view the show to please bring a donation for the local food bank,” said Tammi. “Our gracious neighbor allowed us to use his driveway to park the truck for easy dropoff.” The family has used the show to help collect donations for the AMEN Food Pantry and the Corinth-Alcorn County Animal Shelter in recent years. “It means so much to see parents use that as a way to teach their children to give back and show appreciation for the show by doing so,” said Tammi. “We now use a large bin placed at the gate toward the front walk for donations.” While philanthropy has become a major driver of the show, the Fraziers agree they love sharing their
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home with the community during the most special time of year. “Christmas is magical. Randy and I have both always loved it, and we both feel it is a privilege to live in this home. It is a true treasure of Corinth and we are happy to share it with everyone,” said Tammi. Many Crossroads area families have added “going to see the Frazier house” to their list of holiday must-dos. It has become a tradition for most. “It gives us so much joy to know that our family tradition has provided an event for other families to get together and share the magic of Christmas,” added Tammi.
By the Numbers 165,000
channels of data in the LED screens used in video boards
25,000 pixel bulbs 32 channels of data
controlling 13,000 LED lights
31 strands of garland 17 Christmas trees 16 wreaths 3 mega trees
If you go
Located on East Fourth Street in downtown Corinth at the corner with Taylor Street, showtimes for the Frazier home include Sunday through Thursday from 5 to 10 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 5 to 11:30 p.m. As a courtesy, those viewing the display should turn off their vehicle’s headlights. Also to help with traffic, those not viewing the display should avoid Fourth Street from Webster to Taylor. The show is also less busy during the week, so locals may want to visit on weeknights.
CROSSROADS MAGAZINE
with pixel lights
3
3 5x8 pixel screens
holiday scenes shown through projection mapping
1
holiday house built from PVC and corrugated plastic
1 master microcontroller that controls 10 remote microcontrollers all synced together through wireless networking
PAGE 29
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CROSSROADS CHRISTMAS Over 14,000 lights create movie magic feeling in downtown Corinth
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CROSSROADS MAGAZIN E
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Fillmore Street in downtown Corinth remains aglow with holiday lights. Photos by Luke Price
By ZACK STEEN
For Crossroads Magazine
T
he scenes of downtown Corinth at Christmastime may remind some of Hollywood magic. Like a Hallmark holiday movie come to life. From early December through the new year, the town glows with child-like wonder displayed through thousands of tiny twinkling lights. It’s called Crossroads Christmas and the brain trust behind the five-year project is Main Street Director Angela Avent.
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“For years Corinth put lights on the trees along Filmore Street,” said Avent. “When I came on board, it was one of my priorities to do more. We took what has always been done and built on that.” Because Main Street Corinth knew so much more could be done, a small holiday committee was formed. It included Avent, Visit Corinth Director Christy Burns and volunteer Tammi Frazier. The three women spearheaded a movement to turn the Cross City into a Christmas destination. In addition to the decorated Fillmore Street trees, over 14,000 Christmas lights are attached along the rooftops of downtown
CROSSROADS MAGAZINE
buildings. Citizens, downtown merchants and businesses have all chipped in to fund this massive project of lighting downtown. Many volunteers, including the Corinth Fire Department and ACE Power, assist each year. “We are able to get a few more buildings done each year,” said Avent. “Pretty much all the main streets are complete, and we continue to work on the side streets with the goal of adding lights to all buildings downtown.” Once all blocks have lights installed, Avent said each year concentration will be on repair and upkeep. PAGE 33
Early January snowfall this year will have everyone dreaming of a white Christmas in the Crossroads area this holiday season. RIGHT: Waldron Street Christian Church.
Spreading Christmas cheer on the east edge of downtown is a Christmas display of sound and light. Presented by Coca-Cola Bottling of Corinth, the display on the Coke campus dances to music when tuned to an FM station. It includes a mix of traditional Christmas music, old Coke Commercials and a special rendition of Jingle Bells by two local musicians. The CARE Garden and Depot Complex is another site of holiday decorations downtown and the court square is where the town’s official Christmas tree calls home. The artificial 22-foot tree is adorned with colorful holiday lights and sits on the front lawn of the Alcorn County Courthouse. Though the challenges of the pandemic last year, the group rallied community support by adding lights to new buildings in the area. And this year even more cheerful additions are planned. PAGE 34
Avent said a canopy of lights will be hung from the front corners of the courthouse to the light poles by the street. Also new to court square will be a holiday village built by Alcorn Career and Technology Center students and painted by local artists. “The additions this year will add a bit of fun and whimsy to the entire town,” said Avent. “We are really excited about the vilCROSSROADS MAGAZIN E
lage and believe both children and the young at heart will enjoy seeing it.” Already working on plans for 2022, Crossroads Christmas is a passion project for the group. “We love doing this – it takes us all year to plan what new things we can do and each year it seems to get better and better,” added Avent. “We want both locals and visitors to love it – that’s what truly keeps us going.” www.mycrossroadsmagazine.com
The Courtsquare Christmas tree lights up downtown. Photos by Luke Price
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CROSSROADS MAGAZINE
PAGE 35
Downtown Corinth will come alive during the Christmas season this year. Photos by Mark Boehler
Events kick off Christmas season in Corinth December 4 offers trifecta of free holiday outings for community
on their front door,” said Main Street Director Angela Avent. “Festival-goers will be given a ballot at the first store they visit. As they travel he first Saturday in December is a big to each shop, they will enjoy sipping and shopday for Corinth ... and the Christmas ping, enjoying different types of Wassail and season. using the ballot to score the best tasting one.” Main Street Corinth will present a trifecta of Completed ballots turned in at the end free community events to help get everyone of the day will be entered into a $100 Main in the holiday spirit on Saturday, Dec. 4. Street Corinth gift card to be used at the store ■■ Wassail Festival of choice. Kicking off the day will be the return of the ■■ Corinth-Alcorn County Christmas popular Wassail Festival. Downtown Corinth Parade shops will open their doors from 10 a.m. to Main Street Corinth will celebrate “It’s a 3 p.m. serving up a variety of Wassail cider Candyland Christmas” with the 2021 edition and special holiday sales. of the annual holiday parade. “Shops throughout downtown Corinth Entries will reach close to 100, and include will each serve a Wassail cider of their choice marching bands, walking groups, floats, vehifor customers to sample and judge. Those cles and, of course, a special guest appearance participating stores will be marked by balloons by Santa Claus. By ZACK STEEN
For Crossroads Magazine
T
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CROSSROADS MAGAZIN E
The parade will begin at 5 p.m. at the First Baptist Church on Fillmore Street and take the normal route through the historic downtown streets of Corinth. The parade will end after passing Commerce Bank at the intersection of Bunch and Taylor Streets. ■■ Festival of Lights Capping off the day, Main Street Corinth will host a Festival of Lights for the first time marking the moment when the switch is flipped to light the courthouse Christmas tree immediately following the parade. Several snow machines will provide a flurry in the air and a holiday movie will be shown. The Commission on the Future of Alcorn County and the Alcorn County Cares initiative will also have holiday-themed entertainment with the Alcorn County Sings choir group during the event. www.mycrossroadsmagazine.com
The lighting of the downtown Christmas tree will be one of many events in downtown Corinth.
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PAGE 39
Farmhouse
home filled with grandmother’s love Story by CAROL HUMPHREYS • Photos by MARK BOEHLER • For Crossroads Magazine
A
grandmother’s love of sharing the joy and splendor of the Christmas season with her grandchildren is on full display at the home of Bill and Margaret Buse. During this festive time, the couple’s renovated farmhouse remains full of holiday memories. The glow of soft white lights radiating from the home provide a welcoming warmth. More important for Margaret is the anticipation the lovely Christmas scene invokes in her grandchildren. “Zach Penna with ‘Exterior Lighting’ in Booneville puts up our Christmas lights outside,” said the Thrasher resident. “When he asked me how I wanted everything
PAGE 40
decorated, I told him I just wanted it to be when my grandchildren came to my house, they said, ‘Wow!’” Small white lights give the topiaries framing the front doors and nearby bushes a soft glow. Larger white lights line the front porch, contrasting with the hint of color in the wreaths adorning the lamp post and windows. The beauty of the Christmas season continues inside the country home where the homeowner incorporated tastefully done holiday décor with existing décor. Simple Christmas displays in classic and rustic holiday designs lend a gracious and festive appearance to the farmhouse. CROSSROADS MAGAZIN E
ABOVE: Bill and Margaret Buse’s farmhouse home in Thrasher remains aglow with the Christmas spirit. RIGHT: The Buses in their living room. FAR RIGHT: Right on cue, a Christmas cactus blooms with color in the kitchen.
A traditional Christmas tree dressed in deep luminous reds, golds, greens and blues is nestled in a corner against picture windows overlooking a festively decorated patio. “I am a firm believer you can’t put too many decorations on a Christmas tree,” the grandmother said in amusement. “I started off with blues when decorating my tree to Continued on Page 44
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From page 40
match my house’s blue and teal color scheme, but my grandchildren preferred multicolor so I started adding more colors to the tree. Before my grandchildren came along, I liked decorating my tree with all white lights but now also have colored lights incorporated into the design.” The Buses decided to gut their home for an open design concept about five years ago as new members were added to their family. “I asked the builder to put plug-ins in the baseboards for my Christmas tree,” said Margaret. “He didn’t think it’d work but it did. People can now see my tree through the windows when coming down the road by my house. It just seems to make my home sparkle a little more.” A blue-ribbon Christmas goose serves as a centerpiece on the farm table, providing a nostalgic touch. Greenery cascades from the light fixture above. A large rustic “Christmas” farm truck sitting on the coffee table is a charming focal point in the living room. Festive embellishments like snow globes, elegant lanterns, candles and holiday-themed pillows are displayed throughout the house. An educator and former teacher, Margaret started her own business Buse Educational Services in 2016 and buys a lot of her holiday-themed items while traveling. An angel-themed painting in gold, silver and white hanging near the fireplace was acquired from Corinth artist Warren Rossi. In the kitchen, a Christmas cactus’ vibrant tulip shaped flowers bloom right on time. Next to it, a brilliant red-themed collection adds a punch to the holiday tone. Preexisting wood cut-outs of forest trees sitting on a shelf above the stove are perfect for the holiday season. Four-foot wooden boards scattered about the room featuring airily painted Santa Clauses were created by Margaret. “When my children were growing up I would do arts and crafts with friends,” said the creative matron. “We would do a Christmas open house in November to make money so we could buy our children Christmas gifts.” Tradition has always been a part of her closely-knit family. The daughter of Martha and the late Harold Williams, Margaret, 63, currently lives in the area close to Thrasher School where she grew up. In fact, the 1976 Thrasher High School graduate only lives three houses down from the school. Her mother lives in the home closest to the school with one sister, while another sister resides in the house in between. Another sister lives in the nearby town of Baldwyn. Six generations of Margaret’s family have PAGE 44
The Buse family Christmas tree dressed in luminous reds, golds, greens and blues.
celebrated Christmas on the land and the tradition continues. “I love traditions like baking cookies with the grandkids. I grew up going to my grandmother’s house for Christmas, my children went to my mother’s house for Christmas dinner and now it’s my turn. I want Christmases to be a memorable experience,” she said. Her children, Barrett Rowsey and Stephanie VanWinkle, both attended Biggersville CROSSROADS MAGAZIN E
schools where their father was a coach. They are now parents and Margaret or “Mimi,” is the proud grandmother of four, ages 5-9. Bill also has a daughter, Nicole Fowler, who has two boys ages 16 and 26. Margaret hosts Thanksgiving dinner at her home every year for her family and begins decorating for Christmas that evening. Though the entrepreneur travels quite a bit it slows down as the holiday season approaches. The grandmother strongly believes when www.mycrossroadsmagazine.com
grandkids are involved, she will always make the time to celebrate the holidays. She hosts Christmas dinner every year with about 30 family members, nine of which are 10 and under. If her grandchildren stay overnight after Thanksgiving dinner, they help their grandmother decorate the tree. She reuses her Christmas décor every year, admitting she has a storage shed entirely filled with Christmas decorations. “My tree is always eclectically decorated,” Margaret said with a chuckle. “The children put ornaments wherever they want to. I even have ladders so they can place them higher. I try not to move anything they have put in place though I might add around it to fill in the holes. If I move their ornaments, they’ll know!” She packed her special ornaments away about eight years ago after a ball got broken when one of her grandchildren was playing near the tree. The glasslike ornaments she has used since then are mostly plastic. As the children get older, she hopes to begin incorporating the glass ornaments again. The enthusiastic Christmas decorator tries to do something unique with her Christmas décor every year. She gets her ideas from watching Christmas movies and online videos. “Sometimes, it’s just a matter of rearranging the same objects or putting different ribbons on them. And sometimes part of my changeup is because I can’t remember how I decorated everything the year before,” she said, laughing. The homeowner occasionally changes her furnishing and accessories during the year which also determines how she decorates during the holidays. She remarked she believes in evolving houses, people and designs. “But I still want everything recognizable when my grandchildren come to Mimi’s house,” Margaret added. “They know there’s going to be Christmas sheets on their beds, a Christmas tree in their bedroom and a Nativity scene somewhere in the house. After all, in the South where Christ is celebrated, shouldn’t Christmas be the biggest celebration of the year?” “If any holiday should be a big deal, then it should be Christmas,” said the grandmother.
If You Go
Take U.S. 45 south to Prentiss County and take the old highway route to the Thrasher turnoff. The Buse house can be seen on the right just past Thrasher School. Once past, there is a nearby church parking lot to turn TOP: A Christmas goose serves as a centerpiece around and get a second look of the Buse on the farmhouse-themed dining table. ABOVE: house on way back out to the highway.
The front door entrance to the Buse home sets the A resident of Corinth, Carol Humphreys is a freelance writer and contributor to the Crossroads Magazine. beautiful holiday tone. www.mycrossroadsmagazine.com
CROSSROADS MAGAZINE
PAGE 45
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27-30
27-30
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Walt Disney Archives exhibit, Graceland, Memphis
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Small Business Saturday
27
Diamond Rio and the Kentucky Headhunters, Crossroads Arena
DAEPAE Live at V Taco, downtown Corinth
Walt Disney Archives exhibit, Graceland, Memphis
Corinth Threate-Arts presents “A Christmas Story”
Pickin’ on the Square, The Coliseum Theatre, downtown Corinth
The Nutcracker presented by Corinth Ballet, The Coliseum Theatre, downtown Corinth
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Shadrack’s Drive-Thru Christmas Light Show, Jackson Generals Baseball Stadium, Jackson, Tenn.
27-28
Tupelo Flea Market, Tupelo Furniture Market
The Most Wonderful Time of the Year Arts Council Fundraiser, The Coliseum Theatre, downtown Corinth
Shadrack’s Drive-Thru Christmas Light Show, Jackson Generals Baseball Stadium, Jackson, Tenn.
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Corinth Threate-Arts presents “A Christmas Story,” Crossroads Playhouse
Holiday Lighting of the Park, Crossroads Regional Park, Corinth
Iuka Christmas Parade, downtown Iuka
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3
Corinth-Alcorn County Parade presents “Christmas in Candyland”
First Fridays, downtown Florence, Ala.
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A Cinderella Christmas Pageant, downtown Booneville
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Corinth-Alcorn County Parade presents “Christmas in Candyland,” downtown Corinth
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The Nutcracker presented by Corinth Ballet
Disney On Ice presents Mickey and Friends, BancorpSouth Arena, Tupelo
“Home Alone” Movie Screening, The Coliseum Theatre, downtown Corinth
Tishomingo Christmas Parade, downtown Tishomingo
Burnsville Christmas Parade, downtown Burnsville
Florence Christmas Parade, downtown Florence, Ala.
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Pickin’ on the Square, The Coliseum Theatre, downtown Corinth
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Wassail Festival, downtown Corinth
Farmington Christmas Parade, Farmington Heritage Park
Festival of Lights, downtown Corinth
Booneville Christmas Parade presents “Whoville in Booneville,” downtown Booneville
Karaoke at V Taco, downtown Corinth
Corinth Threate-Arts presents “A Christmas Story,” Crossroads Playhouse
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First Fridays, downtown Florence, Ala.
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The Nutcracker presented by Corinth Ballet, The Coliseum Theatre, downtown Corinth
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Tupelo Flea Market, Tupelo Furniture Market
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It’s a Dickens Christmas Y’all, downtown Tuscumbia, Ala.
Christmas at the Coliseum, The Coliseum Theatre, downtown Corinth
First Fridays, downtown Florence, Ala.
Rienzi Christmas Parade, downtown Rienzi
Pickin’ on the Square, The Coliseum Theatre, downtown Corinth
Dickens Christmas, downtown Iuka
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“The Santa Clause” Movie Screening, The Coliseum Theatre, downtown Corinth
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Tupelo Flea Market, Tupelo Furniture Market
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Corinth Symphony Orchestra Christmas Concert, The Coliseum Theatre, downtown Corinth
DAEPAE Live at V Taco, downtown Corinth
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A Very Special Christmas with Michael W. Smith and Darci Lynne, BancorpSouth Arena, Tupelo
Afternoon Christmas Cartoons, The Coliseum Theatre, downtown Corinth
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T-Ray the Violinist Concert & Dinner, The LATTA, Selmer, Tenn.
“Polar Express” Breakfast Event and Movie Screening, The Coliseum Theatre, downtown Corinth
Friends of Pickwick Landing State Park present 2022 New Year’s Eve Bash featuring Prowler, Pickwick Landing State Park Lodge, Counce, Tenn.
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Mississippi Repertory Theatre’s Whose Wine Is it Anyway? New Year’s Eve Gala and Wine Tasting, The Coliseum Theatre, downtown Corinth
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With Warm Wishes From Our Family To Yours!
wassail Toast to good health with
T
he practice of wassailing is a time-honored tradition that has spanned centuries. When wassailing, people go door-to-door, singing and offering a sip of drink from something called a wassail bowl. Most do it to spread holiday cheer and wish good health on their neighbors. The word “wassail” is derived from the Anglo-Saxon phrase “waes hael,” which loosely translates to “good health” or “be whole.” Wassailing remains popular in some communities, though caroling has overtaken it as a way to spread cheer through singing. Wassail drink was originally made from mulled ale, curdled cream, roasted apples, eggs, cloves, ginger, nutmeg, and sugar, according to the holiday customs and traditions resource WhyChristmas. There are many versions of wassail beverages, including this “Traditional Wassail,” courtesy of “The Farmer’s Almanac.”
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Traditional Wassail
Serves 8 to 12 5 to 6 large baking apples, peeled and cored (such as Baldwin, Gravenstein, McIntosh, or Stayman Winesap) 1 cup sugar 2 quarts beer or ale 2 cinnamon sticks, broken in half, or 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground ginger Zest of 1 lemon 11⁄2 cups sherry or sweet red wine Preheat oven to 400 F. Cut the apples into thick slices, and arrange in layers in a covered casserole dish, sprinkling a few teaspoons of sugar over each layer. Cover and bake for 30 minutes. (The apples will get puffy and soft.) While the apples bake, combine the beer, spices, lemon zest, and remaining sugar in a large saucepan. Heat slowly, bringing just to a simmer. (Don’t let the mixture boil.) When it is hot, add the sherry and keep heating until the mixture reaches a simmer again, still not boiling. Place the hot baked apples in a punch bowl, and pour the hot wassail over them. Serve hot. www.mycrossroadsmagazine.com
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TRAVEL
Disney’s legacy
The Graceland Exhibition Center is located in Memphis, Tenn., near Graceland, the home of Elvis Presley.
meets
Elvis’ Graceland Over 450 items from films, parks, merchandise and more part of Walt Disney Archives exhibit Story by ZACK STEEN • Photos by BRANDY STEEN • For Crossroads Magazine PAGE 64
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Haunted Mansion’s Hitchhiking Ghosts used in the Disney World attraction.
A
trip to Graceland this holiday season might be the perfect gift for a Disney fan. Disney diehards both young and young at heart will squeal with excitement over the 450 items spread across the 10,000-squarefoot inside the Walt Disney Archives taking up residence inside Elvis Presley’s Graceland Exhibition Center. The traveling exhibit remains open through January 2022. The exhibit celebrates the legacy of The Walt Disney Company archives, with behind-the-scenes access never before granted to the public. Making only its second stop in the country, the exhibit premiered at D23 Expo Japan in 2018. It opened at a museum near Disneyland in California before heading to Memphis over the summer. Walt Disney Archives Director
Rebecca Cline said the items on display at Graceland are “extraordinary” and include original artwork, costumes and props that tell the story of The Walt Disney Company and Walt Disney himself. “We wanted not only to appeal to Disney fanatics but also the general public who loves Disney,” Cline told the Daily Corinthian. “We have so many amazing treasures in our collection that we wanted to share them with the world.” Cline said Graceland was one of the first institutions to show interest in hosting the exhibit. “Being able to bring two legendary icons like Elvis Presley and Walt Disney together is a dream come true,” she added. Cline said her team went out of their way to include some “special to Memphis” items in the exhibit including some film canisters and
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posters from Elvis films that the Archives acquired after Disney purchased 20th Century Fox. “Of course, Disney’s Stitch from ‘Lilo and Stitch’ is Elvis’s biggest fan, so we have some artwork from the film that has never been shown before,” said the director. Other items on display are the rarely displayed sketches for Fantasia and ghosts from the Haunted Mansion attraction to modern-day favorites like a maquette from “Frozen” and a Wolverine costume. The exhibit spans multiple Disney properties including items ranging from Disney live-action to animated films, Walt Disney’s personal effects, items from various Disney Parks, vintage Disney merchandise, 20th Century Fox films and more. Cline’s favorite item in the exhibit? Mary Poppins’ original carpet bag. “It was the first movie I ever saw in a theater, so the original carpet bag has always been very dear to my heart,” she said.
Rates and dates The exhibit will continue through Jan. 2, 2022, and will include several holiday-themed special events for people of all ages. Self-guided exhibit tickets are adults (ages 11 and up) $15, children ages 5-10 $8 and children 4 and under free. Groups of 15 or people receive 10 percent off. VIP Tickets are $50 and include a professionally guided tour of the exhibit, special access to a VIP lounge, a commemorative lanyard, an exclusive commemorative pin and a $15 food voucher. For Disney enthusiasts who plan to visit frequently, a $50 Passport ticket is available that allows guests to access the self-guided tours as many times as they would like. Graceland is open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. except Dec. 24 (9 a.m. to 2 p.m.) and Dec. 25 (closed).
Directions Graceland is located at 3764 Elvis Presley Boulevard in Memphis, Tenn., about 1 hour and 30 minutes from Corinth. The best route includes traveling U.S. 72 West toward Memphis for about 63 miles. Pass Piperton, Tenn., take Highway 385 West for about 14 miles before merging onto I-240 West toward Jackson. Within about 9 miles, take exit 25A toward I-55 South toward Jackson before merging onto I-69 South. Use the left lane to merge onto US51 South/Elvis Presley Blvd. Graceland visitor parking is located on the right.
Where to stay The AAA Four Diamond Guest House at Graceland is offering a special deal for fans PAGE 66
Engineer Mickey Mouse used during the opening day ceremony at Disneyland in 1955.
ABOVE: Belle costume worn by Emma Watson in 2017’s “Beauty and the Beast.” ABOVE RIGHT: Winnie the Pooh prop used in the 2018 film “Christopher Robin.” RIGHT: Maleficent costume used in Fantasmic at Disneyland.
traveling from out of town. In addition to receiving the resort’s Best Available Rate, Disney exhibition tickets are deeply discounted, and guests will receive one complimentary Disney throw blanket per room.
Where to eat There are five restaurants at Graceland and another four at the Guest House at Graceland. Dining at Graceland offers many different lunch and dinner menu options to satisfy everyone in the group. Find great Elvis-inspired cuisines at these classic eateries – from a cup of coffee and a slice of cake to the ever-popular grilled peanut butter and banana sandwich.
Things to do The Memphis Zoo is home to more than www.mycrossroadsmagazine.com
3,500 animals representing over 500 different species. From panda bears, lions, monkeys, hippos and the aquarium, there’s more than enough to see and do at the Zoo.
Don’t miss Voted the Best Historic Holiday Home Tour by USA Today, Christmas at Graceland celebrates the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll’s love of the season by continuing Elvis’ holiday decorating traditions throughout the grounds of his home. Outside, see traditional lights including hundreds of blue Christmas lights lining the driveway, a life-size nativity scene, Elvis’ Santa and his sleigh lawn decorations, and more. The interior of the Elvis’ home is decorated with Christmas decor that includes his traditional red velvet drapes, Christmas trees throughout, and Presley family Christmas artifacts on display. Graceland will be decorated for the holiCROSSROADS MAGAZINE
days through Jan. 9, 2022, but during December limited-time holiday tours featuring live tour guides sharing holiday stories will be offered.
For more information Visit graceland.com or search “Elvis Presleys Graceland” on all major social media platforms. Visitors can also contact 901-3323322 or 800-238-2000. PAGE 67
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How to care for
fresh wreaths M
ajestic Christmas trees garner the lion’s share of the decorative fanfare when the holidays arrive. Trees may be the focal points of holiday decor, but the humble wreath adorning the front door is the first decoration guests are likely to see when visiting a home. Wreaths may need some care to maintain their beauty all month long. Here are some tips to help holiday wreaths last as long as possible. ■■ Choose a wreath wisely When shopping for a wreath, choose freshly cut greenery that you assemble yourself; otherwise, look for wreaths made from freshly cut boughs with their foliage PAGE 70
intact. Make sure not too many needles or leaves are falling off. Heavily decorated, preassembled wreaths may be convenient, but ornaments can make it challenging to give the wreath the moisture it needs to survive. ■■ Moisture/water Access to moisture will help to keep the wreath fresh. While a Christmas tree trunk may sit inside of a stand filled with water, wreaths require a little ingenuity. According to the wreath and garland retailer Club Botanic, if you will not be hanging a freshly purchased wreath right away, keep it in a plastic liner in a cool, dark place to help it retain moisture. Just make sure you don’t seal that
liner closed. Before hanging, lay the wreath in a couple of inches of water for about an hour or up to a day so that the cut stems can soak up water. Once the wreath is hanging on a door or elsewhere, spritz it with water every few days to prevent it from drying out. ■■ Location, location, location Where you hang the wreath is key to its longevity. Wreaths and garlands hung indoors likely won’t last as long as those hung outside, advises the floral retailer Bouqs.com. Evergreen boughs tend to require a colder climate to thrive, and indoor heat can prematurely zap moisture from the wreath. Using a humidifier
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indoors or misting the wreath may help. It’s probably best to hang fresh wreaths outdoors, but avoid direct sunlight, which can dry out the greenery. Slightly shaded spots are best. If your front door is bathed in full sun for hours, hang an artificial wreath here instead of a fresh one. ■■ Maintain airflow Another factor that can affect the wreath’s longevity is an ample flow of oxygen. Wreaths tend to last much longer when kept on an outer door, indicates Harbor Farm in Ellsworth, Maine. Wreaths sandwiched between a front door and a storm door will probably perish faster due to lack of oxygen.
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’Tis the season for
gingerbread cookies
H
oliday baking sessions hold a sacred spot in many households. Such sessions are a great opportunity for adults and children to have some fun in the kitchen and create some tasty treats the whole family can enjoy. Baked goods devotees may find it hard to imagine the holidays without gingerbread, and this recipe for Soft Glazed Gingerbread from Elisabeth M. Prueitt and Chad Robertson’s “Tartine” (Chronicle Books) can ensure the whole family enjoys this holiday season staple.
Soft Glazed Gingerbread
Yields 12 to 20 cookies Dough 3 3⁄4 cups all-purpose flour 1 tablespoon cocoa powder 4 teaspoons ground ginger 11⁄2 teaspoons ground cloves 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon 1⁄2 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon salt 11⁄4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature 3⁄4 cup plus 2 tablespoons granulated sugar 1 large egg 1⁄2 cup blackstrap or other dark molasses 2 tablespoons light corn syrup Glaze 1 cup confectioners’ sugar 2 tablespoons water To make the dough, stir together the flour, cocoa powder, ginger, cloves, cinnamon, baking soda, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl. Set aside. Using a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the butter on medium-high speed until creamy. Slowly add the granulated sugar and mix on medium speed until the mixture is completely smooth and soft. Stop the mixer and scrape down the sides of the bowl with a rubber spatula as needed. Add the egg and mix well. Add the molasses and corn syrup and beat until incorporated. Stop the mixer again and scrape down the sides of the bowl. Add the flour mixture and beat on low speed until a dough forms that pulls away from the sides of the bowl and all the ingredients are well incorporated. Remove the dough from the bowl, flatten it on a large piece of plastic wrap into a rectangle about 1 inch thick, cover the dough with the plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. Preheat the oven to 350 F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper on a nonstick liner. PAGE 74
Gingerbread cookies are a favorite holiday tradition.
Unwrap the dough and place on a floured work surface. If using a plaque with a design, roll out the dough 1⁄3-inch thick, lightly dust the top with flour, press your cookie molds over the dough, and then cut out the shapes with a small knife and place on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Alternatively, using the mold as a guide, cut around it with a small knife, flip the mold over so the design is facing you, and place the dough over it, pressing it into the design. Unmold the shapes onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between them. If using a patterned rolling pin, lightly dust the lined baking sheet with flour and transfer the dough to the pan. Lightly dust the top of the dough with flour and roll it into a rectangle about 1⁄3-inch thick with a plain pin. Then, using the patterned pin, roll over the dough with enough pressure to ensure a clear impression of the design. Trim the sides with a small knife. It is not necessary to cut into smaller sizes before baking. CROSSROADS MAGAZIN E
Bake the cookies until lightly golden along the sides but still soft to the touch in the centers, 7 to 15 minutes. The timing will depend on the size of the individual cookies, or if you have made a single large patterned piece that will be cut after baking. While the cookies are baking, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar and water until smooth. When the cookies are ready, remove from the oven and let cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 10 minutes. Then, while the cookies are still warm, using even strokes, brush a light coat of glaze on the top of each cookie, evenly covering it. Let the cookies cool completely. When the glaze dries, it should leave a shiny, opaque finish. If you have used a patterned pin to make a single large plaque, cut into the desired sizes with a small, very sharp knife. The cookies will keep in an airtight container in a cool place for about 2 weeks. They do not freeze well, however, as the glaze becomes watery when they are thawed. www.mycrossroadsmagazine.com
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Make-ahead meals for tasty holiday dinners
H
oliday hosts can explore these ideas for meals that can be cooked in advance and taste even better when reheated after a day in the refrigerator. ■■ Stew: A stew that’s been simmering on the stove or in the slow cooker all day will have a winning flavor. But stew can be even more delicious the next day. The starch in the potatoes will enable the sauce of the stew – whether it’s tomato-based or comprised of a mix of brown gravy and meat drippings – to thicken. The meat may continue to cook and tenderize while reheating. As a one-pot meal, stew is simple to prepare in advance and then serve in an attractive crock for the holidays. ■■ Meatloaf: The herbs and spices in a meat loaf continue to release their flavors, and letting the loaf sit can improve the texture and the ability to slice it without it falling apart. Consider pan-frying individual slices of meatloaf until they’re browned so
Don’t Wait On
they’ll be crisp on the outside and tender in the middle. ■■ Lasagna: Lasagna is a layered pasta dish featuring flat noodle sheets, cheese, sauce, and sometimes meat like ground beef or sausage. Lasagnas that are served right out of the oven can be runny even if they taste scrumptious. Baking it and letting it sit overnight allows all of the layers to gel together, making for a much more cohesive and fortified dish the following day. ■■ Curries: Curries are typically made with many spices that help to make the dish flavorful. A curry that is freshly made may feature intense flavor because each of its components can be tasted individually. After a night of resting in the refrigerator, those flavors meld and mellow. Furthermore, if potatoes are used in the recipe, a night in the fridge gives the potatoes an opportunity to absorb the spices, making for an even tastier meal.
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Holiday decorating sessions can be made even more fun when families take time to craft some DIY decorations together.
Deck the halls with D
DIY decor
ecorating is one of the joys of the holiday season. Families often decorate together, and such traditions may include dressing the Christmas tree and hanging holiday lights around the house. A day spent making homemade ornaments is another great way to decorate and spend quality time together as a family during the holiday season. Though families can let their imaginations run wild when making ornaments at home, the following are some great starting points that can serve as springboards for holiday crafting sessions. ■■ Snowmen: The holiday season simply wouldn’t be the same without snowmen. Homemade snowmen can be made out of ping pong balls, which are the ideal size when making ornaments for the Christmas tree. Those who want to go a little bigger can glue www.mycrossroadsmagazine.com
wiffle balls or large polystyrene balls together or create their own papier mâché snowmen to display on mantles or on console tables in a foyer or hallway. ■■ Santa Claus: Another staple of holiday decor, Santa Claus has inspired many a DIY holiday ornament over the years. A paper plate Santa Claus with a cotton ball beard glued on can make for a fun Christmas craft, especially for young children who can’t wait for the big guy to appear on Christmas Eve. ■■ Penguins: Though they might not have a direct link to the holiday season, penguins evoke feelings of cold weather, making them an ideal addition to holiday decor schemes. Make your own penguin family using polystyrene craft balls in assorted sizes and then hang them on the tree or place them around the house. ■■ Reindeer: Santa would not be able to get CROSSROADS MAGAZINE
the job done each Christmas Eve without his trustworthy team of reindeer. Popsicle stick reindeer projects can be fun for kids of all ages and a great way for youngsters to recognize the efforts of Dasher, Dancer, Comet, Cupid, and, of course, Rudolph, among others. ■■ Cookie cutters: Family baking sessions are a holiday tradition for millions of people. Though that often leads to batches upon batches of tasty cookies, it also means families tend to have a surplus of holiday cookie cutters around the house. Surplus cookie cutters tend to be discarded or relegated to the miscellaneous items drawer in kitchens, but a more awe-inspiring fate can await them. A coat of paint, some glitter and a little bit of string or twine is all families need to transform their extra cookie cutters into colorful tree ornaments. PAGE 81
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