SUMMARY: Galls on Red Bay trees are bright green, oddly shaped growths formed by the Red Bay Psyllid, Trioza magnoliae, a tiny Hemiptera insect related to cicadas and plant lice. These galls develop when nymphs feed on leaf edges, curling them into hollow pockets housing multiple nymphs. Red Bay, common along Gulf and Atlantic coasts, is a hardy tree whose leaves resemble store-bought bay leaves used in cooking. The psyllids cause little harm, with multiple generations yearly and galls browning in winter. A tiny parasitic wasp preys on these insects. This long-standing plant-insect relationship is natural and harmless, even adding slight protein if leaves with galls are used in recipes.

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SUMMARY: Visiting art museums enriches mental well-being, creativity, and cultural understanding while supporting local economies. Six-year-old Wren Moore, inspired by early museum visits, hosted a home art show with her brother, raising $440 for Potter & Clay Ministries in Haiti, which aids malnourished children through practical programs. Encouraged by her mother, Wren’s art show combined family support and philanthropy, highlighting the impact of art beyond entertainment. Mississippi offers diverse art venues like the Mississippi Museum of Art, Ohr-O’Keefe Museum, Lauren Rogers Museum, and Walter Anderson Museum, all fostering appreciation across all ages, making summer museum visits rewarding experiences.

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SUMMARY: Mississippi offers a rich culinary experience with family-owned restaurants that highlight Southern hospitality and legacy. The Dinner Bell in McComb serves communal Southern comfort dishes like fried eggplant and banana pudding. Abe’s Bar-B-Q in Clarksdale is famous for its pork sandwiches and hot tamales, set in a bluesy atmosphere. The Crown Restaurant in Indianola combines local art with dishes like pecan-crusted catfish. Strick’s BBQ in Hattiesburg delivers friendly service and smoked chicken wings near the University of Southern Mississippi. Taylor Grocery in Taylor offers classic fried catfish and sweet tea in a lively, traditional setting. These hidden gems reflect the heart of Southern cooking.

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