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Sweetbay Magnolia: The Belle of Bayhead Swamps

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ourmshome.com – Mark W. LaSalle, Ph.D. – 2024-03-02 15:30:22

SUMMARY: Sweetbay Magnolia is celebrated as an unheralded gem in Gulf and Atlantic coastal landscapes, distinguished from its larger Southern Magnolia cousin by its more compact size while still offering fragrant white blossoms and visually striking seeds. Unique silver-white underside leaf hairs make it easily identifiable and visually appealing, especially in windy conditions, contributing to its role as a defining element of Bayhead Swamps and pine flatwoods. Though classified as a facultative wetland plant, Sweetbay is versatile, thriving in both wet and drier soils, and is increasingly embraced in urban landscapes for its manageable size and ornamental value. In addition to its aesthetic appeal, Sweetbay supports various wildlife, including pollinators and small mammals, and its leaves can be used similarly to bay leaves in cooking. Despite being less prominent than Southern Magnolia, Sweetbay is highly adaptable and valued for both its beauty and utility in natural and urban environments.

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Cruisin’ the Coast: Where Memory Meets the Open Road

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ourmshome.com – Chelsey George – 2025-09-05 17:08:00

SUMMARY: Every October, Mississippi Gulf Coast comes alive with Cruisin’ the Coast, a classic car event that blends history, community, and passion. Since its start in 1996 with 374 cars, it has grown to over 8,400 vehicles, filling towns like Biloxi and Gulfport with gleaming chrome and roaring engines. More than a car show, it’s a gathering where strangers become friends, stories are shared, and traditions passed to wide-eyed children. The event embodies the Gulf Coast’s resilient spirit, showing how passion and creativity keep history alive and inspire generations, making Cruisin’ the Coast a vibrant celebration of life and legacy.

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The Hummingbirds’ Last Hooray of Summer

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ourmshome.com – Joy Lucius – 2025-09-04 14:34:00

SUMMARY: Hummingbirds have been abundant and busy in Mississippi recently, preparing for their long migration south. Observing their energetic buzzing and feeding on blooming flowers highlights their determination and tiny, powerful presence. These encounters brought joy and a peaceful connection with nature. To celebrate and educate about these remarkable birds, the first annual North Mississippi Hummingbird Festival will be held on September 13, 2025, at the June Wheeler Memorial Hummingbird Garden in Southaven. The event features vendors, food trucks, and free talks, aiming to foster community spirit and conservation awareness. It promises a festive send-off for hummingbirds migrating south for winter.

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Southern Miss Faculty and Student Contribute to Groundbreaking NOAA-Funded Plastic Cleanup

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ourmshome.com – University of Southern Mississippi – 2025-09-03 08:37:00

SUMMARY: Southern Miss marine science professor Dr. Kristina Mojica and Ph.D. student Rachel Lancaster joined the largest marine debris removal in Southeast Alaska, supporting NOAA’s Ocean Plastics Recovery Project that removed 3,600 pounds of debris daily. Their research on marine plastics included collecting samples for the first global snapshot of nano-plastic contamination. Mojica’s lab developed a novel method to detect nano-plastics, advancing pollution monitoring. The expedition’s findings will feature in a 2026 Mississippi Aquarium art exhibit, raising awareness of micro- and nano-plastic pollution through community-driven installations. Mojica’s work combines scientific research with education and public engagement to address environmental challenges.

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