No one has more of a passion for good food than Hattiesburg’s own Robert St. John.  As a food writer and restaurateur, St. John has found the recipe for successfully translating his love of cooking into a successful career. Through the popularity of his eateries, cook books and food columns, one readily sees his complete understanding of the southern palate.  An understanding he credits to his upbringing.

In this episode, St. John discusses his Hattiesburg roots and how his family’s Thanksgivings have changed through the years. He remembers his grandmother as a great cook and hostess.  And he explains how the smell of a roux still reminds him of Thanksgivings at her house.

Many of the recipes St. John prepares on Thanksgivings today have been passed down from his mother and grandmother.  Even so, he still manages to add his own touches.

Podcast extra: Even though he knows he could do a lot of business on holidays such as Thanksgiving and Christmas, St. John feels it’s more important for his employees to be at home with their families on those days.

Happy Thanksgiving from Mississippi Moments.

Growing up in Cataula, Georgia, Helen Grant was always involved in sports.  In this episode, she remembers her parent’s unwavering support through high school, college, and beyond. Helen Grant began her college career at Berry College in North Georgia.  It was there she met Coach Kay James, who encouraged her to play volleyball and softball, in addition to basketball. When James took a job at Southern Miss after Grant’s freshman year, Grant decided to come along the ride.

Before Kay James came to Southern Miss, women’s basketball had been largely ignored. Grant describes how Coach James built up the team and generated excitement. After graduation, Grant remained active in sports, first as coach and later as an administrator. She credits Coach James for giving her a chance and looks back with pride on her role in building up women’s sports at USM.

Helen Grant was inducted into the Southern Miss Sports Hall of Fame in 1993.