Signature September 2012 by Hattiesburg Publishing, Inc.

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Features SEPTEMBER 2012 Volume VII Issue 6

Every day is a fashion show... Make the world your stage This monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s issue captures the Spirit of Broadway as photographer Lee Cave shined the spotlight on this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fall fashions at the Historic Saenger Theater.

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Brushfire Designs

Local designer is setting the world on fire with her unique artwork.

48-49 Center of Attention Fashion is the focus of Cameraderie Club photos.

Dapper Dozen Signature Magazine highlights six men and six women in the first-ever Best Dressed list.

Kelly Dunn, a member of the Cameraderie Club, captured this photo at the Trent Lott Center on the University of Southern Mississippi campus.

SEPTEMBER 2012

Departments

16 Events: You’ll find football, fashion, festivals and food this month.

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Happenings 14 Vines of the World: South Miss. Children’s Center to benefit from fundraiser.

96: The Signature Q&A: Janet White

Neighbors 23 Hole in One: The Arc’s Golf Ball Drop could put $20,000 in your pocket. 24 Meet: Joseph Nguyen, a visual merchandiser/stylist and fashion fiend.

21 Signature Chefs Auction: March of Dimes welcomes Signature Chefs Auction.

Cuisine 26 Time-saving tips: Slow cooker pulled pork... just in time for your football fare.

Scene 82

Maestro, your baton: Dr. Tom Fraschillo honored for musical moments.

29 Q&A: Chef David Nguyen of Sakura adds flair to cuisine

Fordetra Gathering: Former students remember Hub City school days.

30 Wine Dining: Keep wines cool when weather gets warm.

Dance All Night: Guests dance the night away at Black & White Ball.

Duty and Honor: Royal Knights in Blue at HPD Policeman’s Ball.

Golden Eagle good: Trunk show highlights Miss USM’s wardrobe.

WCU Pageant Perfect: Miss WCU Kenna Spiller showcases pageant talent.

Getting to know you: OLLI holds fall membership social at USM.

Rock-a-bye baby!: Shower honors growing Weyenberg family.

Disco Fever: Party guests enjoy finding their groove.

In The Pink: Theta Sigma Omega holds Pink Cotillion.

First-time visit: State Marine Corps League meeting held in Hub City.

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On the cover: Chloe Paige was named winner of this year’s C Studio Elite Model Contest. The Hattiesburg High School senior wears fashions by The Sweet Olive and was photographed by Lee Cave.

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Prologue:

Part of the HubCitySPOKES.com Network

103 N. 40th Ave., Hattiesburg, MS 39401 (601) 268-2331 -tel (601) 268-2965 -fax { STAFF }

DAVID GUSTAFSON | EDITOR/PUBLISHER david@HubCitySPOKES.com

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JESSICA WALLACE, SHANNON FIELDER, JENNIFER MAY ADVERTISING SALES

SONYA JAMES | BOOKKEEPING EMILY HALL | GRAPHIC DESIGN DANA GOWER, JOSH MLOT | WRITERS { PHOTOGRAPHERS }

LEE CAVE, CHLOE ROUSE, CAROLYN CRITZ, ROBERT GREENSTREET, JOSH DYKES, SUZANNE CAREY MEMBERS OF THE CAMERADERIE CLUB: KELLY DUNN, APRIL LEE AND DANNY RAWLS Reproductions in whole or in part, without written permission, is strictly prohibited. No responsibility can be assumed for unsolicited manuscripts, articles, or photographs. We reserve the right to edit submissions before publication. Signature Magazine is a product of Hattiesburg Publishing, Inc., proud publisher of The Lamar Times, The Petal News, Camp Shelby Reveille, HubCitySPOKES.com and PineBeltSPORTS.com and is distributed at more than 200 locations in and around Hattiesburg. Mail subscriptions are available for home delivery. For subscriptions or inquiries, write Signature Magazine, 103 N. 40th Ave., Hattiesburg, MS 39401, or call (601) 268-2331. Copyright 2012 by Hattiesburg Publishing, Inc. Find us online at:

HubCitySPOKES.com

A love/hate fashion challenge ince I was a child, I’ve had an extreme love for fashion. But lately, I found that relationship becoming more love/hate than simply love. Finding cute, affordable clothes that fit well was never a challenge for me. However, almost six months into my first pregnancy, I recently had to meet that challenge head on… and almost failed. When I was about 3 and a half months along, I started to feel like the main character from Kafka’s “The Metamorphosis,” who wakes up one morning to find he has turned into a giant bug. I was no insect, but I was definitely dealing with a new form I wasn’t used to and didn’t know how to handle. As I watched my figure transform into a shape I no longer recognized, I found myself becoming lazy with my clothes. At the first sign of snugness in my regular jeans, I panicked. I rushed out and bought a pair of yoga pants for the first time in my life – not for a prenatal exercise class, but for everyday wear. Fitted T-shirts became a daily staple and my footwear was downgraded from 5” stilettos to flip-flops. This may not seem like a major change to some people, but anyone who knows me will tell you it was a huge about-face for me. I even considered buying pajama jeans, but thankfully, my better judgment kicked in before I made that purchase. I had almost given up completely… and then came salvation. I woke up one morning and the extremely cute maternity jeans my sister-in-law passed down to me suddenly fit! While most normal women wouldn’t get excited about being bigger, any pregnant woman will tell you it’s a wonderful feeling. It’s the in-between stage we go through where NOTHING fits that is the nightmare. Maternity jeans are like Mecca to us. Not only are they comfortable enough to fit our bulging bellies, but the new styles and cuts are actually fashionable. Overnight, I felt like myself again. The addition of jeans into my maternity wardrobe opened up a whole new world. With loose knits, maxi dresses and flowing silhouettes dominating the boutiques, it was easy to find clothes that accented my baby bump without making me look like an encased sausage – and allowed me to add my stilettos back into my fashion equation. The yoga pants have happily been put away until the day I decide to actually take up yoga. Based on the fashions shown in this issue, it looks like fall will give me the same options in terms of fit. But don’t worry – there are also plenty of form-fitting styles for those of you not housing a human in your body. As for color, one of my favorite hues is finally getting its turn in the spotlight – maroon (Go Dawgs!). I’d like to thank the fashion powers-that-be for giving me stylish options during this crazy life-altering time. With my luck, bandage dresses will be back in style when I have my second child, but for now, I feel chic and fashionable despite the added inches around my midsection. Just don’t ask me at nine months if I’m still feeling that way.

Emily Foley Hall, Fashion Director, Signature Magazine

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Uncorked Vines of the World benefits SMCC hile most children were getting ready for the first day of school, the children housed at Mississippi Children’s Home Services’ South Mississippi Children’s Center (SMCC) were working with the shelter counselor and their social worker to find a permanent place to call home. Children housed at the South Mississippi Children’s Center are often abused, neglected, runaway, or homeless. “The South Mississippi Children’s Center is often the first stop that many kids have on the way to a better life,” said board member Jacque Pace. “This is why we feel so passionate about helping

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with this shelter’s annual Wine Tasting and Auction fundraiser.” The annual event to be held from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Friday, Sept. 28, at the The Venue in The Bakery Building Downtown Hattiesburg helps the agency raise money to fill the gaps in funding from local, state, and federal agencies. Annie Jackson, director of the South Mississippi Children’s Center, believes that “because of the type of services we provide there are often many items a child may need that funding sources may not cover. Volunteer driven fundraisers like the “Vines of the World” wine tasting help us meet those needs.” Participants will have the opportunity to bid on silent auction items while sampling 30+

grape varietals from around the world. Patrons will vote on their favorite wine selection and a winner will be chosen at the end of the night. The event will also feature a live auction of some exquisite, high-end auction items. Tickets are $50 and can be purchased at Blooms, Fine Wine Liquor & Loft and The Kitchen Table, all in Hattiesburg or at www.mchscares.org. For more information on sponsoring or participating in this event please contact Adrienne Hicks Garanich at ahicks330@aol.com or call (601) 543-8028. Since 1912, Mississippi Children’s Home Services has been committed to building strong families for children. MCHS has become Mississippi’s premier, private non-profit organization providing a comprehensive array of behavioral health and social services for children and families. Although these services vary in intensity, they all share a commitment to be child-centered and family-focused and to deliver services in a seamless, competent, and compassionate manner. MCHS’s services are nested in three distinct, yet complimentary, divisions that serve the common purpose of giving every child and family a chance for success in a permanent loving home. In 2011, MCHS served more than 21,000 children, youth, and families statewide through 17 service offices. South Mississippi Children’s Center (SMCC) is a program of Mississippi Children’s Home Services located in Hattiesburg and providing 24-hour emergency shelter, as well as diagnostic and evaluation services for abused, neglected, runaway, and homeless children who are from 9 to 17 years old. This shelter offers a safe, home-like refuge for children in need. The CARES School Day Program in Hattiesburg is a fully accredit school, providing educational and psychosocial services to children as an alternative to residential placement for special education students who are unable to function in their local public schools. To find out how you can make a difference in the lives of Mississippi’s children, youth, and families, visit www.mchscares.org or call Becky Mercier, Coordinator of Donor Relations and Special Events at 601-352-7784.

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USM FOOTBALL SEASON

SEPT. 6

100 Years of Athletics

Fashion’s Night Out

@ The Rock, USM campus

7-10pm @ OddFellows Gallery, downtown

The Southern Miss Department of Athletics, in conjunction with the 100 Years of Athletics, have announced the themes for the six Golden Eagle football games for the upcoming season. The theme of this athletic year is "Celebrating 100 Years of Championships and Commencements." Each game is themed around a key word that has enabled the University to thrive over its first 100 years and one of the school's five colleges will be honored during a game. • Sept. 15 vs. East Carolina, 2:30 pm – "FTTT" (Fill To The Top) - "Be Prepared." The theme is an homage to the school's very first contest where the Golden Eagles defeated the Hattiesburg Boy Scouts, 100 years ago at Kamper Park. The Golden Eagles will honor the Boy Scouts that night. Fans are asked to show their Golden Eagle Pride by wearing the school's colors in the different sections that they sit in. All fans sitting on the East Side of the Stadium are being asked to wear GOLD, all fans in the South End Zone are asked to wear WHITE, and all fans on the west side of the stadium are asked to wear BLACK. • Sept. 29 – Louisville at USM, 7 pm, – "Tradition." This will be the school's annual BLACKOUT game where all fans in attendance are asked to wear black. • Oct. 6 – hosts Boise State, time TBD – The "Champions" game. • Oct. 20 – Marshall comes to town for Homecoming 2012, 6 pm, in a game dubbed "Honor." The homecoming court will be featured at halftime of the game with the crowning of the king and queen during this ceremony. • Nov. 3 – USM welcome UAB, 6:30 pm – "Commencements." All Southern Miss faculty and staff are eligible to buy one ticket, get one ticket free in honor of their service and dedication for the university. It will also be Take a Kid to a Game for free. All children 12 and under will receive free admission with the purchase of an adult ticket. • Nov. 17 – The Golden Eagles host UTEP for final home game of the season, 7 pm – Themed "Character," this game will serve as the annual Military Appreciation game where all branches of the military including retired, reserved, and active members will be honored for their service.

Click Boutique will celebrate Fashion's Night Out for the first time on Sept. 6 in the historic Oddfellows Gallery on Front Street. The fashionable soiree will be open to all guests from 7-10 pm and will be highlighted by a fashion show, cocktails and refreshments, a fashionable photo booth and an appearance by the newly-crowned Mississippi Miss Hospitality Chandler Llana. The evening will be a celebration tying the Big Apple to the Hub City, with an opportunity for guests to showcase their own individual forward fashions. Fa s h i o n’ s Night Out is an unprecedented global initiative created in 2009 to celebrate fashion, restore consumer confidence, boost the industry’s economy during the recession, and put the fun back in shopping! In the United States, the program is a collaboration between American Vogue, the Council of Fa s h i o n Designers of America, NYC & Company, and the City of New York. In Hattiesburg, Click Boutique will present key pieces of their autumn/winter/holiday collection on strolling models. Guests can enjoy a champagne cocktail and dessert bar in the main gallery featuring the art of Anthony Difatta of Jackson, a swanky thirdfloor lounge. Party guests will enjoy a complimentary live photo booth via Daniel & Steph Photography & Film. Event snapshots will be projected live throughout the evening via the Click Boutique digital billboard on Hardy Street across from the University of Southern Mississippi campus. Find more information at fashionsnightout.com and on Facebook and Twitter (@fnonyc, #FNO). Local event information and updates will be provided

www.southernmiss.com/sports/

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at popintotheshop.com or via facebook/ twitter by Click Boutique & Gallery.

www.popintotheshop.com

SEPT. 8

H’burg Night at the Movies 7:30pm @ Hattiesburg Zoo "Hattiesburg Night at the Movies" will be held at 7:30 pm Saturday, Sept. 8, at the Hattiesburg Zoo. The event includes one of Hattiesburg's first outdoor community movie showings. The event, hosted by State Representative Toby Barker, Little Dog Cinema and the Hattiesburg Zoo, will feature the movie "Charade," starring Cary Grant and Audrey Hepburn. Admission is free, with food and drinks available for sale at the Zoo. In addition, raffle tickets will be sold for a chance to win gift certificates to local shops and eateries. All proceeds from raffle ticket sales will benefit Habitat for Humanity and Blood: Water Mission. The public is encouraged to bring lawn chairs. Entrance to the movie will be located at the back entrance of the Hattiesburg Zoo near the Kamper Park Pavilion.

www.Toby@TobyBarker.com

SEPT. 9

Sweeteas Kickoff 2-4pm @ Rootbeer Saloon Sweeteas Kickoff for the new school year will be from 2-4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 9, at the Rootbeer Saloon on Hwy. 589 North toward Sumrall. Join them for a boot scootin’ boogie as Sweeteas and their Dads enjoy BBQ and line dancing. (And Moms will simply enjoy watching the entertainment!) Every little girl in grades Pre-K through 6th grade is invited to join the Sweeteas Club, which is sponsored by FGH Spirit of Women. Yearly dues are only $15. For more information, call Jennifer Gunn at 601.288.3372.

www.forrestgeneral.com

SEPT. 13

Corey Smith in Concert 8pm @ Saenger Theater Named one of country music’s hottest new artists by Country Weekly and Music Row magazines, Corey Smith has emerged as a touring sensation. His home-grown talent will take the stage at the Hattiesburg Saenger Theater with a live concert at 8 pm Thursday, Sept. 13. Smith has hundreds of sold-out performances under his belt and a growing, dedicated fan-base whose passion for his music has led to some of the music industry’s leading professionals shaking their heads in astonishment. His latest album, The Broken Record, features refreshing remakes of longtime fan favorites TwentyOne, Maybe Next Year and If I Could Do It Again along with new tunes like I Love Everyone, Broken Record and Silly. For more information, visit www.coreysmith.com. Advanced tickets are $21/$24 for students and $26/$29 for general audiences. Tickets purchased on the day of the show will be $26/$29 for students and $31/$34 for general audiences. Tickets may be purchased online at www.HattiesburgSaenger.com or by calling the Saenger Theater Box Office at 601.584.4888.

www.hattiesburgsaenger.com

SEPT. 14

Gourd Festival @ Smith Co. Agricultural Complex The Third Annual Mississippi Gourd Festival will be held Sept. 15-16 with early bird classes scheduled Friday, Sept. 14, in Raleigh. More than 25 gourd-crafting classes, demonstrations, beautifully crafted gourds, ready-to-craft gourds, gourd-crafting tools and supplies and more will be offered during the event. Natural gourds will be on sale along with numerous booths of handcrafted gourds for purchase. All events will take place inside the air-conditioned Smith County Agricultural Complex at 131 Oil Field Road in Raleigh. For information, visit http://www.mississippigourdsociety.org, or contact Mike Thompson at miketom1950@yahoo.com or 601.782.9444.

www.miketom1950@yahoo.com

SEPT. 15

PINK! Fundraising Gala 6:30-11pm @ Canebrake Country Club “Reflections of My Journey” is the theme of the 9th annual “PINK!” fundraising gala for the Pink Ribbon Fund. This all-volunteer breast cancer charity was founded in 2003. Its mission is to compassionately provide financial assistance for the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer to patients in its 17 county service area. This year’s gala will be held from 6:30 to 11 pm Saturday, Sept. 15, at Canebrake Country Club. “Reflections of My Journey” is a tribute to all breast cancer patients, done in giant posters with patients’ journey stories. Suggested attire is “pink cocktail style.” Tickets are $75 per person, which includes complimentary door prize tickets (to those wearing something pink) and an open bar. Tickets are available at PinkRibbonFund.org, where you may also make a donation. For gala or raffle details, or sponsorship information, call 601-450-PINK. Music will be provided by the Pine Belt’s famous “Southbound Crescent” band. There will be a sumptuous “Walking Dinner” and one room will be completely devoted to a spectacular dessert table, featuring pastries. Several fabulous raffles, including trips and jewelry, will be the major fund-raising activity. Also new this year, special recognition will be given to one breast cancer patient whose journey will be featured in a special presentation to honor her in the name of all Pine Belt patients who have completed, or are still on, their journey.

www.pinkribbonfund.org

SEPT. 15

Breakfast with Seymour 9-10:30am @ St. Thomas Catholic Church The Hattiesburg Chi O alumnae chapter is hosting "Breakfast with Seymour" from 9 am until 10:30 am Saturday, Sept. 15, at St Thomas Catholic Church. All proceeds from the event are being donated to the local Make-A-Wish Chapter. Attendees will enjoy breakfast and a meet-and- greet with the

Southern Miss mascot, Seymour, before the USM game. Tickets are $10 each. To purchase, contact Jennifer Smith at jennfisherh@msn.com or 601.408.2084 or Alicia McLemore at 601.382.1350 or aliciabeth72@gmail.-com.

SEPT. 17

OLLI @ The Peck House, USM

Presented by R3SM & Habitat For Humanity, "An Evening of Gospel Music" 2012 features vocalists Gay Polk-Payton and Fred Varnado. Tickets are $50/person. A limited number of premier seats are available for $100/person. To purchase a ticket, call 601.5844888. All proceeds will benefit Habitat for Humanity and R3SM to support their work of providing affordable housing for low-income residents in the greater Hattiesburg area.

SEPT. 29

Revelations Quartet Singing 6pm @ Saenger Theater The Revelations Quartet 31st Anniversary Singing is set for the Saenger Theater on Sept. 29. The Revelations Quartet was formed in the early 1970s and is based out of St. John’s Church in Downtown Cullman, Ala. Tickets are $12 and $15.

www.hattiesburg.org/events/

www.hattiesburg.org/events/ The fall program begins for OLLI, the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of S o u - t h e r n Mississippi Sept. 17. OLLI offers learning in retirement opportunities to men and women 50 and older. Fall classes, seminars, and field trips are in the categories of art, literature, music, history, politics, religion; computers, technology, exercise, health, science; home gardening, cooking, and crafts. Individuals interested in membership should call the OLLI office at 601.264.2780, visit the web site at www.usm.edu/olli, email at virginia.kittrell@usm.edu, or visit the OLLI office at 3601 Pearl St., Hattiesburg, during normal office hours. New members may join at any time.

www.usm.edu/olli

OCT. 5-7

SEPT. 23

Hattiesburg Concert Band

Fiber Art & Quilt Show

3pm @ Saenger Theater, Hattiesburg

@ Lake Terrace Convention Center

The all-volunteer City of Hattiesburg Concert Band will present the first concert of its 30th season at 3 pm Sept. 23 at the Saenger Theater. Under the direction of Sherman Hong, the free concert will feature trumpet soloist Michael Bass of Pearl River Community College, and guest conductors Sammy Barr of Jones County Junior College and John Jenkins of Bay Minette, Ala. The band is also seeking new members who would enjoy making music with them. If interested, call 601.264.5848.

The Pine Belt Quilters will host the 14th Biennial Fiber Art and Quilt Show, at the Lake Terrace Convention Center, Oct. 5 - 7 in Hattiesburg. The show will feature judged quilt show, the famous Hoffman Challenge, silent auction, trunk shows, raffle quilt, boutique, lectures, and vendors of all types. Hours: Friday and Saturday, 10 am to 6 pm and Sunday 10 am to 4 pm. Information: www.pinebeltquilters.com or www.pinebeltquilters.blogspot.com

www.hattiesburgsaenger.com

SEPT. 24

ARC Golf Ball Drop

www.pinebeltquilters.com

@ Canebrake Country Club

SEPT. 17-18

JORT Audition 7pm @ Petal Cultural Center JORT (Just Over the Rainbow Theatre) is always looking for new talent, both on the stage and backstage. Upcoming auditions include "Altar Boys," Sept 17-18, at the Petal Cultural Center, 120 South George St., Petal. There are roles for five men ages teenage to adult. Performances are set for Nov. 17 in Ocean Springs and Nov 27-29 at the Saenger Theater.

www.jortonline.org

SEPT. 22

An Evening of Gospel Music 6pm @ Saenger Theater

The Arc (The Association for the Rights of Citizens with Developmental Disabilities) will be holding its 8th Annual Helicopter Golf Ball Drop on Sept. 24 at Canebrake Country Club. Numbered golf balls are being sold for $100 each. A helicopter will drop up to 1,000 golf balls on a designated green and the ball that goes in the hole or closest to the hole will be the lucky winner of $20,000. Arc is a non-profit United Way organization. You can purchase golf balls on the Arc website at www.hattiesburgarc.com or call 601.583.4251 or 601.268.9334. Tickets are also being sold at VeterinaryAssociates of Hattiesburg on Broadway Drive next to the Social Security Office.

www.hattiesburgarc.com

OCT. 6

Oktoberfest 11am-4pm @ St. John Lutheran Church The 34th annual Oktoberfest held at St. John Lutheran Church in Hattiesburg gets underway Oct. 6 with authentic German food. This includes bratwurst, German potato salad and sauerkraut. A popular part of each year’s festivities is the popular oompah band. This year’s festival will include a delicatessen with homemade breads, desserts, preserves, etc., quilt raffle, silent auction and crafts. All of the profits are used for mission work in Africa, Mississippi and Hattiesburg. The church is located at 2001 Hardy Street, Hattiesburg.

www.saintjohnlutheran.com

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For the babies Signature Chefs Auction benefits March of Dimes he area’s top chefs will offer Pine Belt diners an opportunity to enjoy a great night out while raising funds, making friends and increasing awareness of the March of Dimes mission to improve the health of babies. The event, set for Thursday, Oct. 18, will be held at the Thad Cochran Center on the University of Southern Mississippi campus. You’ll also get the hear first-hand the story of the Hutto family, Patrick and Lauren, of Hattiesburg and the impact the March of Dimes has had on their lives and that of their daughter, Mary Douglas. In addition to sampling signature dishes, guests will be able to bid on many unique auction items donated by local businesses. “What better way to enjoy a wonderful meal than by supporting the March of Dimes mission and working together for stronger, healthier babies, right here in Hattiesburg,” said Dr. Andrea Carter. “I am grateful that volunteering for the March of Dimes gave me a chance to work with a lot of wonderful people from the area. Chef Jim Thompson is serving as Lead Chef for this year’s event. Generous donations of sponsorships and auction items have been donated. Among items up for item include weekend getaways to the Isle of Capri Casino, South Beach Hotel and Suites and IP Casino, Viking classes for two at The Alluvian Hotel, dinner and golf packages and lots of pottery and artwork. Forrest General Hospital, Hattiesburg Clinic Children’s Center, Hattiesburg Clinic OBGYN, Hattiesburg Clinic Pediatrics, Wesley Medical Center, Women’s Pavilion, Corner Market, Stokes Distributing, Hattiesburg American, WDAM, News 98, CBS 22, Clear Channel Radio, Coca Cola, USM Event Services and Planning, Hattiesburg Publishing, IP Casino Resort and Spa, Hard Rock Casino, Lights Jewelers and Gemologists, Rocket City Diner, and many more! Funds raised by Signature Chefs Auction support lifesaving research and educational programs right here in Hattiesburg. Premature birth is the most serious infant health problem in the United States today. It affects more than half a million babies nationwide each year, with 8,506 a year in our community. Babies born too soon are more likely to die or have lifelong disabilities. The March of Dimes is committed to reversing this trend by funding research to find the causes of premature birth and providing comfort and information to families The March of Dimes is the leading nonprofit organization for pregnancy and baby health. With chapters nationwide and its premier event, March for Babies, the March of Dimes works to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality. For the latest resources and information, visit marchofdimes.com or nacersano.org.

March of Dimes babies served as a backdrop for last year’s entertainment, The Glitter Boys.

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Hole in one Arc Golf Ball drop winner to score $20,000 or the winner of this year’s Eighth Annual Arc Golf Ball Drop, which will be held Sept. 24 at Canebrake Golf Club, being the sole winner of the fundraising event means receiving a cool $20,000. But for the families of the Arc, the annual event means much, much more than that. The organization formerly was known as the Association for Retarded Citizens, but is now the Association for the Rights of Citizens with Developmental Disabilities, ARC Vice President Sandy Wright said, but added, “Most people just know us as Arc.” “The Arc is a non-profit organization devoted to promoting awareness of people with mental and physical disabilities and assisting them in getting out into the community,” she said. Wright, who has been on the board of directors of the Arc since 1991, said the Golf Ball Drop is the major fundraiser for the organization. “Fundraising for a smaller organization like the Arc is really a yearround thing,” she said. Prior to the advent of the Golf Ball Drop, “We were doing things like car washes. We were really thrilled to raise $150 in one day.” Wright said one of the problems with the fundraisers, though, was that “the people doing the fundraising are also the parents” of those who are being assisted through Arc programs. “Being a caretaker for someone, statistically, is one of the most stressful things you can do.” What was needed, Wright said, was a really big fundraiser that could help support the organization’s year-round programs. From that came the idea of the Golf Ball Drop. “When we first did it, we had no idea how much we would raise.

We just stepped out on faith,” she said, noting that the group agreed to set a $20,000 payout regardless of how many golf balls were sold. “Sure enough, we sold enough to pay the money,” Wright said. Some years have been affected somewhat by the economy, but the Arc has seen the fundraiser continue to grow. The event itself “is very exciting,” Wright said. “I get a lump in my throat each time. It’s kind of an emotional thing.” For the fundraiser, golf balls are sold for $100 each, and each ball is numbered, with no more than 1,000 balls being sold. The balls are then placed in a duffle bag and loaded onto a helicopter. “Nobody is allowed to get down on the golf course at all. Once the balls are dropped, nobody can go out there but our accountant, director and usually one other person as a witness. The entire procedure is audited.” Usually, only one ball drops into the hole, but, “One time it rained right before the drop and the balls didn’t bounce very well,” Wright said, noting that six balls ended up in the hole that year. The Golf Ball Drop usually is held about 5:30 p.m. following a charity golf tournament that is held during the day. In the past, the golf tournament had been underwritten, but this year it is being sponsored by the ARC itself. Golf balls can be purchased online with Visa or MasterCard at www.hattiesburgarc.com. Completed applications and a $100 check or credit card information can also be sent to: ARC, P.O. Box 18800, Hattiesburg, MS 39404-8800. Completed applications also can be faxed to 601-583-4251. Mail must be postmarked by Sept. 19. For more information about the Golf Ball Drop, call 601-583-4251 or 601-268-9334.

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Neighbors

Meet: Joseph Nguyen To most, Joseph Nguyen of Hattiesburg would appear to be your average college student. And the 24year-old was, up until December when he graduated from the University of Southern Mississippi with degrees in international business and French and a minor in economics. These days he serves as a visual merchandiser/stylist for Forever 21, an American chain of clothing retailers with branches in major cities across the country. Visual merchandiser, what exactly does that mean? “I’m basically in charge of how the store looks – from the storefront windows to lighting positions and displays throughout the store,” he said. But in his multi-role position, he also serves as a stylist, which means he helps put outfits/fashions together for customers looking for specific wardrobe needs for a variety of functions, as well as answering questions about clothes. “I basically just provide whatever help they need,” he said. While fashion is something he’s always been interested in, it wasn’t a field he thought he could find and use as a profession. It wasn’t until his final semester at Southern Miss that he took Fashion Merchandising 101. Nguyen began working for the Hattiesburg business as a visual assistant in October 2010 and was promoted to his current position in February. Growing up in Hattiesburg, Nguyen attended Oak Grove Elementary before moving with his family to Smyrna, Ga., where he graduated as a member of about 636 in the Class of 2006. Nguyen relocated to the area after Hurricane Katrina. Family living on the Mississippi Gulf Coast needed his aid in helping them rebuild and that’s how he ended up at USM. During the spring of 2010, Nguyen was a part of USM’s exchange studies program and spent seven months in Paris. There he attended a business school that partners with USM called L'Ecole Superieure du Commerce Exterieur (ESCE). “During my time there I took an elective course, L’histore de la Mode, which translates to The History of Fashion, but it was more of an emphasis on Haute Couture,” he said. “The class broadened my knowledge on French fashion and Haute Couture. We also visited an exhibition on Yves Saint Laurent at Le Petit Palais, where we were given a tour by a specialist who explained Laurent’s thoughts and intentions for each collection.” Nguyen said there were many perks to living in the City of Lights. He was there during Menswear Fashion Week and had the opportunity to attend a party where he was able to make connections with students who attended Istituto Marangoni, an institute specializing in the formation of professionals and highly-skilled technicians in the fashion system, and who worked shows during fashion week. It was here that a friend’s friend’s friend got him a press pass where he was able to attend the Gaspard Yurkievich show during Women’s

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Ready to Wear. “It was thrilling,” he said. “And while it only lasts 7 to 10 minutes – very quick – once the lights go down and the music comes up, it was incredible. You see about 22 looks and your heart is thumping the entire times. It’s one of those opportunities that you never thought you would have, but something you live to experience and tell the tale.” It was during his time across the big pond that his interests were really spurred. While he saw many aspects of the fashion business, it was those he was around and had the opportunity to experience that showed him you don’t have to design fashions to do something in the fashion industry. Someone who enjoys dressing up, Nguyen started his new job dressed to the T. He quickly learned that just because you’re in the fashion industry you can’t always dress the part. “With my job I’m doing everything from moving shelves to building or tearing down walls, lifting or finding myself positioned at the top of a 25 or 30-foot ladder. “It wasn’t practical to be in good clothes, boots of good oxford shoes,” he said. “Working with women’s fashions, I didn’t think there was much to it. I quickly learned you had to be dressed ready to sweat. It gets pretty intense some time. “My mantra is, When you go into a store, you want it to be exciting, not something that’s burdensome and troublesome, but a joy. Fashion is something you can play with and shouldn’t be taken seriously,” he said. “When you leave the store you should be happy with your purchases and see them as an investment and something you’re genuinely happy with.” He reminds that it was designer Diane von Furstenberg who said something along the lines of “when you go to your closet and open it, you should see old friends, not clothes.” And Nguyen has some definite ideas about what he believes every young man and woman should have in their wardrobe arsenal. For the men he lists – a suit, a good pair of jeans “that are fitted, but not too fitted,” good pair of shoes, tennis shoes, casual longsleeve button up shirt (he’s not much for short sleeve shirts, but rather rolling the sleeves of a long sleeve up to get the same effect, but with a nicer look), nice blazer “for dinners with his significant other, church, or the parents” and khakis/dress pants. Along the softer side, for women he suggests – a go-to black dress that “when accessorized looks different. She can wear it 100 million times and it never looks the same”; trench coat in khaki or black as a staple; a nice fitted blazer “that transitions from the work day to evening cocktails” and a pair of closed toe black heels and nude heels, “both of these go with any and everything.” Anything else she adds to her fashion repertoire is whatever suits her taste, he said. “And remember, classic never goes out of style. “Life is short and you can’t limit your self to things.”

september 2012

Cuisine

Time-Saving Tips with Go-To Ingredients

arm weather means time to slow down, relax and enjoy time with friends and family. But with endless opportunities to enjoy the season – from picnics and baseball games to days at the beach – it’s easy to run out of time and energy to prepare a delicious family meal. How, then, do you bring the family back to the table? One easy way to reclaim precious time is to infuse your menu with palatepleasing, leftover-friendly staples like pulled pork. Easily repurposed throughout the week, pulled pork can be cooked once and incorporated in a variety of dishes your family will love. For example, this Chili Rub Pulled Pork recipe can be prepared in the slow

Chili Rub Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 5 1/4 to 8 1/4 hours Makes: 8 to 10 servings 1 3-pound boneless pork shoulder or sirloin roast 2 tablespoons chili powder 1 1/2 teaspoons salt 1/2 teaspoon cayenne powder 1 tablespoon canola oil or other neutral-flavored oil 1/2 cup chicken broth Line 9 x 13-inch baking pan with foil and place pork in pan. In small bowl, combine chili powder, salt and cayenne. Rub mixture over all sides of meat, pressing to adhere (if the meat is tied together

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cooker, yielding a flavorful meal that’s ready to eat when you return home from an active day. Additionally, the leftovers can be enjoyed throughout the week in a number of different ways. Whether topping creative salads or savory pizzas, filling enchiladas or adding new flavor to baked potatoes, pulled pork is a perfect fit for the laid-back lifestyle that the season is known for. For more pulled pork tips and recipes, visit www.PorkBeInspired.com. Also, follow the National Pork Board on Facebook at www.facebook.com/PorkBeInspired, Twitter @AllAboutPork and on Pinterest at www.pinterest.com/PorkBeInspired. with twine or netting, just rub the seasoning right over it). Set aside. In large skillet over medium-high heat, warm oil. Add pork and brown on all sides, 6 to 8 minutes. Transfer meat to slow cooker. Add broth to skillet, scraping up any browned bits, then add broth to slow cooker. Cover and cook until pork is very tender, 6 to 8 hours on low or 4 to 5 hours on high. Transfer meat to cutting board and let rest 10 to 15 minutes. Use two forks to shred meat into bite-sized pieces. Moisten and season with cooking juices to taste. Serving Suggestions This recipe is only mildly spiced, so if you like things with a kick, try adding more cayenne to the rub or add some of your favorite hot sauce to the finished, shredded meat. Use the pork to make a traditional pulled pork sandwich, with barbecue sauce and slaw, enjoy it in your favorite chili recipe, or on top of a Tex Mex Caesar salad.

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Davidâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Recipes Hiya Yakko (Fresh cut cold tofu on top of grated ginger and green onions and topped with fish flakes dipped in homemade sauce) Cut soft tofu thin, about 1/2 inch a little ginger a little onion Add fish flake Homemade sauce: 2 oz. jumbo onion 2 oz. ginger 250 ml Kikomam soy cause 250 ml Cooking sake 250 ml mirin (a Japanese sweet cooking sauce) 1/2 cup sugar

Put them all in blender and mix them up.

Yakitori (Grilled chicken & green onions on a skewer with BBQ eel sauce) Cut chicken 2 inches x 3 inches. Green onion and about 3 inches of white part Stick chicken on the skewer first then green onion then chicken then onion (3 chicken 2 onion on 1 skewer). Put them on the grill. Top with BBQ eel sauce which you can buy at the Asian Market.

september 2012

Cuisine

By David White

ost of the nation is still recovering from a brutal heat wave that shattered thousands of records and forced millions to stay indoors and crank up the air conditioning. The impact of such weather on wine was on full effect last weekend, when I attended an outdoor party on a 100-degree day. I arrived to the event a few hours early, as my friend had asked if I could bring a few cases of wine. When I pulled in, I was thrilled to spot the caterer, who was already filling large coolers with ice. She quickly took the white wines and threw them in the coolers. The reds, though, remained on a table, baking under the hot sun. So I asked how I could help, offering to put the reds in a refrigerator or toss them in a different cooler. She looked at me like I was insane. "I've been doing this for years, and I've never heard of chilling reds," she declared, incredulously. I politely noted the sweltering heat, and suggested that guests would prefer cool wine -- which would quickly warm once poured -- to wine that had been sitting in the hot sun all day. "Well, you're the expert," she answered, proceeding to put

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the reds on ice. "But I've always been told that red wines are served at room temperature." And there it was, the world's most pervasive wine myth. The notion that reds should be served at room temperature is why most people -- and even most bars, restaurants, and caterers -- serve red wines too warm. Before the advent of thermostats, homes were much cooler than they are today. So serving red wine at "room temperature" made sense -- it still made for a refreshing beverage. Today, most Americans keep their homes at about 72 degrees. At this temperature, alcohol is more obvious, which distorts the aromas and flavors of a wine. Warm wines generally seem rough, unstructured, and alcoholic. These traits only get worse as a wine heats up. Conversely, most white wines are consumed when they're too cold. Most consumers serve whites straight from the refrigerator, and most restaurants serve them straight

from an ice bucket. Serving any wine at such low temperatures will mask its flavors. Fortunately, you don't need a fancy wine refrigerator to serve wine at its optimal temperature. If you're drinking a red wine, pop it in the fridge for 20-30 minutes. If you're drinking a white wine, pull it out of the fridge about 20-30 minutes before you're going to drink it. As wine critic Bill Ward recently explained, "Basically, all wine should be chilled, but not too much, and served between 43 degrees (sweet or crisp whites, bubbles) and 65 degrees (hearty reds). Richer whites (Chardonnay) and lighter reds (Pinot Noir, Gamay, Cabernet Franc) fall in between." Temperature doesn't just matter when serving wine, it also matters when storing it. If you're looking to hold onto a special bottle for a long time, most experts agree that it should be stored somewhere

cool and dark -- wine cellars are typically kept at about 55 degrees. This allows a wine to develop slowly and predictably, hopefully becoming more complex and interesting over time. Wines stored at higher temperatures will age more quickly and can develop off flavors and aromas. It's also worth noting that wine is perishable and can spoil very quickly when exposed to extreme heat. This was another concern of mine last weekend. Like ice cream, wine can be destroyed when left outside -or even worse, in a car -- on a hot summer day. If a wine is just slightly "cooked," the damage will be hard to perceive -- it will just seem a bit dull. When a wine is more noticeably heat-damaged, it's marked by aromas of stewed fruit and burnt sugar. When heat damage is severe, the wine will expand inside the bottle -- pushing out the cork and breaking its seal, thus spoiling the wine by exposing it to too much oxygen. Already, it looks like this might be the hottest summer in history. So keep cool. And don't forget to chill your wines. David White, a wine writer, is the founder and editor of Terroirist.com. His columns are housed at Wines.com, the fastest growing wine portal on the Internet.

s eptem ber 2012

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“For I know the plans I have for you,” declared the Lord. (Jeremiah 29:11)

By Beth BUNCH

t's just one of a multitude of Bible verses you’ll find printed on the back of Brushfire Designs T-shirts which seem fitting for the company’s founders. Not familiar with the business? If you Google it, you'll more than likely come across a number of businesses from Texas to North Carolina carrying Brushfire merchandise. But its homebase – the creative hub – is actually right here in Hattiesburg...in an inconspicuous warehouse in Oak Grove. “We're the best kept secret in Hattiesburg,” said Jennifer Stevens-Nicholson, who owns the company with her husband, Harold. The company sells a variety of items, from rustic wall art, canvases in four sizes, frames, metal crosses, ornaments, Tshirts and hats, paper goods such as a 12-month inspirational wall calendar, note and recipe cards, grocery store shopping pads and car decals. But what makes the items special are Jennifer’s unique and original cross designs they all bear. In the business epicenter employees are positioned around folding tables, much like you might see at a church supper, that hold Brushfire Designs in various stages of completion,

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some with just a base coat of paint, while others Yet another room is where items are packaged and stained glass windows of the church, especially the have the first of several layers completed. Bakerycrosses. shipped. The FedEx truck visits daily. style racks, which you’d expect to see filled with “I liked to color and was pretty good at it,” she A graduate of North Forrest, Jennifer has been in sweet confections, are lined with colorful treats of a Hattiesburg most of her life. She graduated from the said. “I didn't play with toys a lot. If you asked my different flavor – canvases, photo frames and ornamom she'd tell you as long as I had a paint deck I University of Southern Mississippi with degrees in ments. was happy. I was one of those children who liked to Health Administration and Education, but she only Some tables hold wooden painting frames from help her remodel the house and my bedroom was worked briefly in her degree field. Harold grew up which hang dozens upon dozens of glass ornaments in Madison and graduated from Belhaven College never decorated like that of a child...no posters. I in every color imaginable. was an old soul even as a kid.” with a Business degree. He worked in outside sales The work is similar to assembly line-type producA day trip to New Orleans found Jennifer in a before the couple met and married in 2006. He tion, but at a much slower and precise pace. joined his wife at Brushfire full time in 2009 when it paint-your-own-pottery studio, where she fell in love Base paint colors for the many projects are purbecame too much for him to try and work his regular with the idea AND painted a dog bowl for her chased by the gallon, while cubby upon cubby is Boston Terrier. 8 to 5 job then come home and prep stuff for filled with small bottles of colors with fun names. “I was no Picasso, but I loved the concept,” she Jennifer and her craft. Some of Brushfire’s wares start out as simple Many would find it hard to believe, but the talent- said. unfinished blocks of wood that have been cut and ed designer has never had an art lesson in her life. That was the catalyst behind her starting the first sanded in another part of the building. They await A product of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, as a paint-your-own-pottery studio in Mississippi. such colors as brilliant turquoise, shocking lime, child Jennifer remembers being inspired by the “It was right here in Hattiesburg, but it was too baby blue, eye-popping pink, khaki and early for its time here,” she admits. beige and then the intricate design work “It was a lot of work, and I was which gives them their personality and really young.” life. Jennifer had dabbled in painting A small television in the corner turned Christmas ornaments and custom down low and the hum of the air condicanvases for family and friends. “I tioner are the only sounds you hear, other loved to paint, not necessarily than a question or comment here and ceramics or pottery,” she said. So, there between busy workers, dressed in she developed her own line of Brushfire T-shirts. painted products and traveled the The floor and black garbage cans are state – from Memphis to the their own works of art, wearing a dabMississippi Gulf Coast, stopping in bling of many different colors. If they at small gift shops and boutiques could only talk.... Styrofoam plates serve and selling out of her car. as artist palettes and hold various colors Much to her surprise, the items of paint. developed a following, first among On this day you can hear the rain pepher friends then her friends’ friends pering down on the roof of the structure and their friends, she said. “And in which Brushfire occupies a series of before I knew it the requests were rooms...all connected with the colorful coming in so fast there wasn’t any designs for which they have become time left for pottery. And Brushfire known. Designs was born.” The walls of one room are lined with “I might be on the road a week large metal shelving and are stacked showing my art and taking orders, from floor to ceiling with hand-painted then back at home for 3 weeks glass ornaments in approximately 92 painting to fill the orders, then back designs – from Christmas whimsy to the on the road for another week makpopular cross designs, and even ornaing deliveries. I never shipped anyments with such names as School Days, thing, but rather hand delivered Gone Fishing, Pink Flamingo, U.S. everything. Basically I was repping Soldier, Princess, ornaments for the Just my own products,” she said. Married or the New Arrival, ballerina, a She did the shows, Canton Flea variety of sports and those in your Market and some festivals. But the favorite or not-so-favorite college team festival circuit – getting up early, colors. In all, Brushfire sold more than traveling, setting up, never knowing 30,000 of these in 2011. what weather she’d be dealing with, A Santa ornament was the first rain or heat – made that aspect of Jennifer designed and sold and a whimsipeddling her wares a short lived cal elf ornament is hard to keep on the venture. “And I much preferred shelves, it's so in demand. And these wholesale over retail,” she said. days the ever-popular owl is a best seller. Much of the artwork she was The ornaments are packaged in special selling was traditional Christmas gold boxes designed by Jennifer and ornaments – Santa, snowmen, made especially for them. angels, painted wine bottles for Jennifer also designs custom ornahome decor or whimsical artwork ments for companies. For the last three for babies’ nurseries or children’s years she's created custom ornaments for rooms. Chateau Elan Winery in Braselton, Ga. “Nothing like what we do now,” The walls of another room are like a she said. large rainbow, lined with shelves of colThe Mississippi Gift Company orful T-shirts in both long and short purchased a lot of her wares. “I sleeves. More than 75,000 of these were Jennifer Stevens-Nicholson and Harold Nicholson stand in the ornament room of their basically painted items along a west Hattiesburg warehouse. All of the glass ornaments are handpainted. purchased during the past year. trend or theme for them,” she said.

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september 2012

In 2000 she went to work as a staff artist with Vicki Carroll in Jackson, who produced a line of handpainted and decorative accessories. It was here where Jennifer learned a lot about the wholesale business. “It was a different change of pace and she knew I painted and sold my own items,” she said. That work sparked an interest with a burning question, ‘Start our own company or not?’ “We weren’t sure about owning our own business,” Jennifer said. But they jumped feet first into the fire....Brushfire, that is. The couple credits the Mississippi Wholesale Market, held once a year at the Mississippi Trade Mart in Jackson and hosted by the Mississippi Development Authority, with giving them a solid start. “You have to fall under MDA’s guidelines to exhibit,” said Harold. “Your products, all Mississippi made, are seen by a lot of people. It’s very cost effective.” Jennifer added that a lot of Hattiesburg businesses show their products there. “It’s very concentrated,” she said. “You can get your sales for a whole year from there.” In 2009 things changed, drastically. “A sales rep I had known 15 years prior contacted me to say he’d seen my products all over the state,” Jennifer remembers. “He said he wanted to represent me and make the commission.” I didn't know how big of a deal that was at the time.” Jennifer and Harold were invited to Atlanta to meet with the president and vice president of Darrah and Company, a multi-million dollar enterprise. “We rolled our suitcase of merchandise in and gave our pitch,” said Jennifer. It was this meeting which allowed them to get their foot in the door of a fantastic showroom and which eventually led to a permanent Brushfire Designs showroom in Atlanta and with Cliff Price & Co. in the Dallas market. They have a designer who works to set their showrooms up and display the products for each year’s markets. “Usually we fly in for the shows, during which time I'll have artist signings, meet with customers and talk about new products,” said Jennifer. She explained the Atlanta market consists of four buildings, each 18 to 20

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stories tall, with each floor like a mall. On a daily basis Brushfire now has about 40 representatives marketing their lines to gift shops and boutiques across the Southeast – from New Mexico to the East Coast and all points in be-tween. They have had inquiries from businesses overseas, but it's really not feasible to export, they explained. They have shipped to Aruba before, according to Jennifer. “We were very blessed,” said Jennifer. “I had come full circle. This was the showroom where Vicki Carroll had shown when I was working for her. It was like a tap on the shoulder saying ‘there’s a reason you were there, a reason they told you, you can do this, that you met people along the way and that things fell into place for many years....all for a reason. It didn't just happen by chance.’ ” The only real feedback the couple

got was when the higher ups in Atlanta told them they would eventually have to carry their wares overseas to get them manufactured. And while the couple didn’t disagree, they didn’t agree either. They are 100 percent committed to locally-handmade products. “Made in America,” Jennifer said, “and remaining in America.” And while the couple doesn’t dismiss the notion that one day it may come to that, they don't want it to. “While we might have to consider that one day down the road, for now it’s local all the way – from the ordinary people-turned-artisans who help turn out our crafts on a daily basis to the products we buy.” Everything is handpainted in the U.S. All of their printed promotional materials are printed locally and paint is purchased locally. The only items no longer made by an American company are the large glass ornaments they handpaint. “I’ve learned to never say never, but we're going to keep it local for as long as we can afford it,” Jennifer said. “As long as it’s economically feasible, we’ll continue to do it locally,” Harold reiterated. The couple did travel to China a couple of years ago to see what the fuss was all about. “It’s not a move we want to make,” said Jennifer. They returned heavy hearted. “There’s a push to manufacture overseas in order to make more money. But money is

not what it’s all about.” “Quality products can be made here,” Harold said. “It doesn’t mean we don’t and won’t have struggles. It’s hard to compete with imports. And we know we could get it done cheaper elsewhere.” “It’s the fact that it’s made here that’s so important,” said Jennifer. “I feel like as long as we can, we will. It’s sometimes difficult on us to do it that way, but deep down we want to keep it here.” And to that end, the company has invested in some new equipment, which was heavily researched and found to be made in America. “It's some great machinery and will give us the opportunity to put more people to work, as well as to expand our line,” said Jennifer. They've also recently learned about grant money they qualify for that is available to such Mississippi businesses as theirs. “All it takes is meeting the right person” said Jennifer. “There are opportunities we didn't know about that others need to know about. If money is not used by Mississippi companies then it will be lost.” The company employs eight. And while the work sounds simpler than it really is, it's very artistic. “Our employees are from all walks of life; they didn't come in as artists,” Jennifer explains. “And even if they are a good artist, it really doesn't matter because they are here to paint my designs and sometimes painting some-

september 2012

body else's design isn't easy. There's a learning curve to it. But it has my name on it when it leaves out of here, so it has to be similar to the sample.” “Everything I do is my own idea,” said Jennifer. “Like the crosses, they just came to me. I woke up in the middle of the night and from there it's just evolved. Back then they weren't as dramatic as they are now. The ideas come to me, I'll sketch them, then paint them.” She explained that she tries to do things she feels inspired by. “I'm inspired a lot by color and shape,” she said. “I don't try and force an idea. I just let them happen as they may, and most of the time the response is pretty good. There have only been one or two that didn't go over so well.” Jennifer wants both the design and the verse to be something meaningful for their customers, much like the 12-month inspirational calendar which features different designs and Bible verses. “The design is a representation, but what you get out of it and take away is up to you.” She knows her cross designs have a different meaning for everyone. “But the ultimate thing is that Christ died on the cross for our salvation,” she said. “I hope the design and the verse take you to something to be a little more meaningful, but the bare bones is still the same. I want my designs to warm the heart.” She hopes the reason people pick up her designs, whether on a shirt or a canvas or some other product, is because they like the color, they need inspiration, or if going through tough times just need a little something extra. When putting a design and verse together, Jennifer just doesn't slap the first thing that comes to mind with some random verse, but puts a lot of thought into both the design and the verse that accompanies it. The Blue Life T-shirt features a cross with red, white and blue design work accompanied by stars and other flourishes. The verse that accompanies it is, “Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends. John 15:13. Or there's a crimson-colored shirt with a cross that features a houndstooth design that Jennifer designed after Alabama won the National Championship. The verse that accompanies it, “Anyone who competes for the victor's crown must abide by the rules.” 2 Timothy 2:5 All of Jennifer's designs start out as artwork. The artwork is then transformed into another pieces of art, whether a T-shirt, an ornament or a canvas. “That's what makes us different and separates us from other companies,” said Jennifer. It's their T-shirts for which they have become known. And unfortunately it's those designs that others have tried to knock off by selling too similar a design. “While that's flattering, it's also stealing, and I believe that's one of the 10 Commandments,” said Jennifer, but something they've had to deal with of late. In their line of business, it's always Christmas, unfortunately. She explained that a couple of years back they were planning their annual staff Christmas party and found themselves up in the wee hours of the morning decorating a Christmas tree. But when guests arrived they were pleasantly surprised, after being surrounded by Brushfire ornaments on a daily basis, to not find one Brushfire ornament on the tree. Jennifer, Harold and the staff are currently knee deep in works for the upcoming holiday season and plans for the coming year are progressing nicely. “There's definitely some growth planning on the drawing board, and Brushfire patrons will see a major product expansion of the line in 2013. The new product categories will be revealed in January. But for now they're preparing to unveil the 2013 calendar this month and continue their burning desire to provide inspiration for their patrons across the country. They want to continue to fan the flames that have made

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september 2012

chalie RAY Occupation: Full-time wife and grandmother. Part-time sales associate for WORTH New York, a collection of designer clothes. Family: Husband, William K. Ray, president and CEO of Asbury Foundation; daughter, Robin Martin (wife of Trae) of Newton, N.C.; daughter, Keri Galey (wife of Roman) of Hattiesburg; eight incredible grandchildren. Fashion Style: Although I try to stay current in my fashion, I lean more toward the classic, structured style; however, there are times I like to dress a little edgy with a modern twist. Most comfortable wearing: A tank top and shorts in summer, and long sleeved T-shirt and jeans in winter. Most prized fashion accessory: A tiny little diamond cross I wear most all the time. First 3 fashion items to grab in case of a fire: My favorite jeans, a sweat shirt, and the cowboy boots my husband gave me while on our last motorcycle ride. Style icon: Through the years, I have had more than one style icon who has influenced my dress. They are Doris Day, Audrey Hepburn and Grace Kelly. More recently, I have added to my favorite style list, Kate Middle-ton.

randy PRICE Occupation: Owner, Randy Price & Company. Family: Wife, Annette, of 33 years; Son, Austin (husband of Brittany; daughters, Lindsay and Carlee. Fashion Style: After being in the fashion business for 29 years, I have seen menswear styles come and go. But the style that best describes me is updated traditional. That is.. not the boring blue button down look, but a button down look with a twist – but not so far as “Funky Cold Medina.” Most comfortable wearing: A pair of Citizen Jeans with my vintage Bed Stu brand boots and a comfortable T. When I have that on, I know I am off work. Most prized fashion accessory: I am a Harley Davidson enthusiast. A few years back my favorite uncle gave me a belt buckle that came from the original HD plant in Milwaukee Wisc.. Ride to Live, Live to Ride. First 3 fashion items to grab in case of a fire: A suit, shirt and tie, cause according to Mark Twain, “Clothes make the man. Naked people have little or no influence on society.” Style icon: I really don’t have a style icon per se. Because of what I do for a living, I have seen firsthand fashion ideas from Italy to New York to Los Angeles. When I come back home, I interpret those looks for a Southern wardrobe. In my opinion, no one’s style is better than your own. Trust yourself, you look better than you think. (in most cases).

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gypsy SHEMPER Occupation: Stay-at-home mommy. Family: Michael, Noah (4) and Coco Chanel, a 4-lb. Yorkie Fashion Style: I am a girly girl. I love anything that sparkles and shines. I stick to classic styles and lots of black, but love to mix in fun and funky prints and colors, too. If I can work in a pair of heels, I always doâ&#x20AC;Ś I think the higher the heel, the better! Most comfortable wearing: Well, right now, I would say a cute and comfortable sundress and my Tory Burch flip flops, but I do love a fun dress and great pair of heels! Most prized fashion accessory: I think my new Tom Ford sunglasses. I wear them every day and think a great pair of oversized sunglasses can make the dressiest outfit to workout clothes look good. First 3 fashion items to grab in case of a fire: My Spanx ;) , my favorite skinny jeans and my classic LBD. Style icon: In the last few years, Georgina Chapman. I think she is always polished and has the most glamorous style. Plus, everything she designs is fabulous.

jason D. LeVIERE Occupation: Co-Owner, Click Boutique & Twelve Oaks Accessory. Family: Adam and a puppy named Dexter. Fashion Style: I base everything I wear off of being comfortable, colorful, yet classic in styling. I am a big believer in dressing with a sense of purpose and observing trends in fashion, while remaining true to who I am. The way you look on the outside should project who you are inside. I don't buy anything I don't absolutely love. Most comfortable wearing: Dark denim, with a blazer and a great pair of shoes. Most prized fashion accessory: Right now I have to say it's my SubSIPPI tee designed by Greg Gandy â&#x20AC;&#x201C; not so much because I love the shirt itself, but I love the project that it represents. Sub-SIPPI is an exploratory documentary being made by Vincent Chaney about the sub cultures within Mississippi. Its purpose is to highlight the diversity within our great state, help educate and break down media stereotypes about the South. Click has gotten behind the Sub-SIPPI project as executive producer. First 3 fashion items to grab in case of a fire: My vintage Prada loafers (they are my lucky shoes), a pair of my Uniqlo jeans and a colorful J.Crew button down. Style icon: Stylist Brad Goreski (author, TV personality and past style director for Rachel Zoe)

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flora WILSON Occupation: Teller at Community Bank, Hattiesburg Family: Husband, Carlos Wilson; three children, Tamiko Bridges, Carlos C. Wilson, Philora B. Wilson. Fashion Style: Professional. Most comfortable wearing: A suit. Most prized fashion accessory: My pearls. First 3 fashion items to grab in case of a fire: Makeup, an outfit and a pair of shoes. Style icon: When I was in high school my teachers had a big influence on me.

garland SULLIVAN Occupation: Retired after 28 years with Chevron, working all over the country; USM as Development Officer for 6 years, 2 years as Development Officer with JCJC, 4 years in the Army, Equitable-Insurance-Investments, 5 years. Family: Wife, Sally; 2 grown children; 3 grandchildren. Fashion Style: More casual than anything. I wore business suits for 48 years, but I still enjoy dressing up. Most comfortable wearing: Casual – from dressy casual to golf clothes to a tuxedo. Most prized fashion accessory: My signet ring. First 3 fashion items to grab in case of a fire: A jacket, tennis shoes, khakis – and then to make sure I get away in the car where my golf clubs are already stashed. Style icon: Uncle Tony Thompson of Memphis and other family members – uncles, father, etc. And all those men in small men’s haberdasheries where I have shopped across the country.

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katie JONES Occupation: Mortgage Cross-Sell Manager at Regions. Family: Parents, Bill and Denise Jones. Fashion Style: Classy and Playful. Most comfortable wearing: Jeans and a solid color tee. Most prized fashion accessory: Any handbag I own. I probably couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t pick just one. First 3 fashion items to grab in case of a fire: Big Star Jeans, PINK shorts and a simple black tee. Style icon: I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know that I have an icon. I can say that I absolutely adore anything Miroslava Duma. She always looks gorgeous.

chad NEWELL Occupation: President, Area Development Partnership. Family: Married to Jennifer for 19 years; father of sons, Garrett (14) and Brooks (8), and daughter, Jordan (11). Fashion Style: Conservative Professional. Most comfortable wearing: Jeans. Most prized fashion accessory: New ties. First 3 fashion items to grab in case of a fire: Three suits so I can go to work! Style icon: My wife influences the way I dress for sure! She deserves the credit.

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barbara HAMILTON Occupation: Executive Assistant to the President, William Carey University. Family: Husband, deceased; son, international lawyer in Washington, D.C.; two daughters in Louisville, Ken., – one a teacher and one a homemaker; 8 grandchildren. Fashion Style: Classic. Most comfortable wearing: Separates. Most prized fashion accessory: A yellow gold ring with onyx and diamond chips insert. First 3 fashion items to grab in case of a fire: My royal blue pants suit, black slacks (flat front), and my red jacket. Style icon: The late Audrey Hepburn is a person whose style I admire as well as anyone who dresses in an understated and somewhat modest fashion. I have known at least one lady in each church my late husband pastored who has been an exemplary role model for my development of style.

johnny L. DUPREE Occupation: Mayor, City of Hattiesburg. Family: My wife, Johniece, and I have two daughters and one grandson – April DuPree Taylor, her husband, Coustaur, and their son, Chandler, live in Mobile. Monica DuPree lives in Jackson. Fashion Style: Conservative. Most comfortable wearing: Business Casual. Most prized fashion accessory: My wedding band and USM ring. First 3 fashion items to grab in case of a fire: The ties I wore during my 3 inaugurations. You can replace clothing, but you can’t replace memories. Style icon: I remember the businessmen and church leaders in my community as I was growing up. They were always dressed professionally.

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traci ROUSE Occupation: VP Marketing, Wesley Medical Center. Family: Husband, Wes Rouse. Fashion Style: Simple, classicâ&#x20AC;Świth lots of black. Most comfortable wearing: My gray Southern Miss sweatshirt. Most prized fashion accessory: A Chanel purse I received as a gift. First 3 fashion items to grab in case of a fire: My J Brand black skinny jeans (They are perfectly worn in and so comfortable), a black blazer from Ann Taylor that Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve had since college and my gray Southern Miss sweatshirt. Style icon: Audrey Hepburn.

charles GRIFFITH, MD Occupation: Family Medicine Physician. Family: Partner, David Hollis; father, Dr. R. Charles Griffith; sister, Ann Marie Griffith; brother and sister-in-law, Dr. Cameron Griffith and Deidre Griffith. Fashion Style: Modern Professional. Most comfortable wearing: Work clothes. Most prized fashion accessory: My David Yurman cross. First 3 fashion items to grab in case of a fire: Cartier wristwatch, David Yurman cross and Salvatore Ferragamo shoes given to me by my father. Style icon: My father.

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Fashion embers of the Cameraderie Club, a Pine Belt photo club, were asked to submit photographs representing this month’s Signature theme – fashion – for the magazine’s newest feature, Center of Attention. Look for photo features in the center of each month’s publication. If you’d like to submit a photo (large format, high resolution) for the October issue, the theme is Go Gold! Send photo(s), along with your name and phone number to beth@hubcityspokes.com.

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Signature Magazine captures the Spirit of Broadway in this monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fall Fashion issue. Photographer Lee Cave helped raise the curtain on a cast of Pine Belt models who graced the stage of the historic Saenger Theater in Downtown Hattiesburg.

Photography by Lee Cave, C Studio Hair Stylists: Bethany Williams (House of Style) and Leah Ratcliff (Trade Secret) Makeup Artists: Waverly McSwain and Brittany LeCesne At right: Amber is wearing Irie. 52

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High Society

(1998)

L-R: Cathelin is wearing The Edge; Rachel is wearing Material Girls; Alex is wearing The Abbey; Debra is wearing McBâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s.

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The Pink Lady

L-R: Brittyn is wearing The Edge; Katherine is wearing The Sweet Olive; Olivia is wearing Sassy Girl.

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(1911)

Cat on a Hot Tin Roof

(1955)

L-R: Kathryn is wearing The Sweet Olive; Olivia is wearing Material Girls; Erin is wearing Sassy Girl.

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Fads and Fancies (1915)

L-R: Emily is wearing Material Girls; Suzanne and Kelsey are both wearing The Sweet Olive.

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Dreamgirls (1981)

L-R: Whitney and Megan are both wearing The Edge.

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All for the Ladies (1912)

L-R: Rachel is wearing The Abbey; Alex is wearing The Sweet Olive; Cathelin is wearing Eve Marie’s; Gabby is wearing Irie.

L-R: Meggie is wearing Eve Marie’s; Kathryn is wearing Sassy Girl; Gabby is wearing McB’s.

L-R: Megan is wearing Eve Marie’s; Meggie is wearing The Edge; Jennifer is wearing Material Girls.

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Three Musketeers (1928)

L-R: Olivia is wearing Material Girls; Erin is wearing The Sweet Olive; Makenzie is wearing Eve Marieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s.

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My Fair Lady (1956)

Clockwise from top: Whitney is wearing Eve Marieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s; Katherine is wearing Sassy Girl; Brittyn is wearing Eve Marieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s; Makenzie is wearing The Abbey.

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All About Me

(2010)

L-R: Kayla is wearing The Abbey; Angel is wearing The Edge

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About Town

L-R: Erin is wearing The Edge; Caitlynn is wearing The Abbey; Kneeling: Jennifer is wearing Irie.

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(1906)

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Furs and Frills (1917)

L-R: Tatum is wearing Material Girls; Ashlyn is wearing McBâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s; Angel is wearing The Abbey; Kayla is wearing Irie.

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Sitting Pretty (1924)

L-R: Kelsey is wearing Sassy Girl; Lauren is wearing Material Girls; Debra is wearing The Sweet Olive; Eden is wearing McBâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s.

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A Little Bit of Everything (1904)

L-R: Tatum is wearing Irie; Chloe is wearing Sassy Girl; Hanna is wearing The Sweet Olive; Taylor is wearing Material Girls.

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Anything Goes (1934)

L-R: Lauren is wearing Sassy Girl; Eden is wearing Irie.

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Girls Will Be Girls (1904)

L-R: Caitlynn is wearing Irie; Amber is wearing The Edge; Ashlyn is wearing Irie; Hanna is wearing Sassy Girl.

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Lovely Lady (1927)

All photos: Taylor is wearing jewelry from Lovieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s.

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Boys and Girls Together (1940)

L-R: Reagan and Gavin are both wearing Giggles.

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Curtains (2007)

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A special thanks to everyone who helped make this issue a success: To Lee for his always wonderful photography; to Valerie and Joseph for all their behind-the-scenes help; to the stylists and makeup artists for making our models look gorgeous; to The Saenger employees for letting us take over the theater for a day; to the models for giving up their time to participate; and to the boutique owners for lending us some amazing outfits. We appreciate each and every one of you!

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Grooving

Shake Your Groove Thing dance event was held at The Venue in downtown Hattiesburg. Dressed in attire of the era, guests enjoyed the disco night, as well as some fancy dances. See more, Pages 90, 91

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FRASCHILLO RETIREMENT RECEPTION

Jody Miller, Alehandro Wooten, Rhonda Long, Melissa Jokerst, Kevin Ledgewood, Ron Hancock

Tom and Michelle Howell, Kyle and Debby Hill

Maestro, your baton! Alumni, colleagues and friends of Dr. Tom Fraschillo attended a retirement reception at the Trent Lott Center on the University of Southern Mississippi campus. The School of Music professor, considered among the top music educators and band conductors in the world, also was feted with “Festa Fraschillo” at the Touchdown Club at M.M. Roberts Stadium.

Patrick and Catherine Wagoner, Michael Delaune

Barbara Mannoni Stave, Karen Mannoni, Stanley Waldoff, Theresa Sanchez

Alison and John Waite

Chris and Stacey Melling

John and Melissa McEachin

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Sarah Shonk, Jennifer Shank, Jake Harrison

Rosi & Dex Johnson, Cathy Watkins, Robert Cook

Dominique Thompson, Amanda Deese

Jeremy Kellet, Meghan Sheehy, Joyce McCall, Dennis Gonzales

Dr. Michael Miles, Cecilia Fraschillo, Floyd Stevens, CJ & Brian Stevens

Frances Stokes, John Stroube

Jonathan Helmick, Jessica Pogue, Lana Waguespack, Kristen Robicheaux

Diane Michel, Elizabeth Carter

Bob and Jan Grace

Thomas Fraschillo, Sharon Laird, Eric Harris, Hannah Cook

Shirley Anderson, Sam Williams

Cassandra King, Norma Wilborn

Donnie Sue Drane, Melvin Jones, Paul Williams

Sandra Husband, Douglas Fairley, James Hughs

Wilmer Bourn, Mae Siggers, John Clayton, Julia Galespie, T.J. Gordon

Dorothy Sullivan, Ralph Lindsey, Celia W. Grant

FORDETRAâ&#x20AC;&#x2C6;REUNION

Bettye Smith, Bobbie Bullock, Annie Parker

Debbie and Kerry Fielder

Fordetra gathering

F Deborah Buckhalter Knight, Antedra Siggers

Howard F. McPhail, Dorothy Sullivan

Keith Robinson, Shirley Strickland

ormer students from the Old Forrest County Training School, DePriest Consolidated School and Earl Travillion Attendance Center (Fordetra) gathered at Lake Terrace Convention Center for a banquet during their 9th biennial reunion. Other events included a memorial service, talent show, parade and other gatherings.

Analease Mitchell, Evelyn Revies, Clara Blackman Theresia Banks, Florence Hartfield, Hollis L. Hall

Ola Silas, Vera Wallis Blakes

Martha Cherry, Penny Blanks, Lois Fairley Jyron Vickers, Jazmine Martin, Jalin Harris, Marion Keys Chris Cooley, Kathryn and Jimmy Franklin

s eptem ber 2012

BLACK & WHITE BALL

Lauren Schober, Teresa Gwizdala, Jenni Williams

David Bishop, Lynn Pye, Kelly Vuyovich

Mary and Bob Cubley

Ginger and Clark Wright

Kelly Vuyovich, Anne Lackey, Mike Albanase

Bruce Welch, Barbara Sullivan

Lynn and Wally Pye

Dance all night

he Grand Ballroom of Hattiesburg held their Black and White Ball at the Jackie Dole Community Center in Hattiesburg. The event included recorded ballroom and Latin dance music during four hours of dancing. Juliet Hinton, James Atwood

Debora Yates, Kyle Tullos

Peggy Oneal, Judith Wells, Becky Burns, Mary and Bob Cubley

Aileen Bennett, Anne Gaston, Cubic Weatherspoon, Karen Adams, Rebecca Chandler, Christie Hudson

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Cathy Morris, Michael Forster

Ken and Barbara Waits

Nickie Hampton, Willie Hampton

Tucker Gates, Lisa Lear, Charlie McCaffrey, Diane James

Alexanderia Leggett, Fiona McSwain

HPD POLICEMANS BALL

Derinda Albriton, Marti Jahnke, Alyssa Chandlee

Angie Sanford, Laura Yawn, Joseph Yawn

Mark Mitchell, Justin McLaurin, Billy Lane

Duty and honor

Cheryl Willis, Lee Ducksworth

Victoria and Daniel Miller

Shannon and James Harris

Aniya Boyland, Faye Hicks, Andrea Martin

Ricky and Stephanie Myers

oyal Knights in Blue – A Celebration of Pride and Progress was the theme for this year’s Hattiesburg Policeman’s Ball held at Lake Terrace Convention Center. .

Tony Taylor, Stephon Harris, Valencia Harris

Greg Beech, Lauren Saucier

Deidre McLendon, Tammy Leggett, Dorothy Alexander, Lillie Cooper

Dorothy and John Duncan

Derinda Albriton, Jane T. Reid

s eptem ber 2012

MISS USM TRUNK SHOW

Wynde Fitts, Jazmyne Buttler, Zachary Gatlin Valencia Walls, Brittany Payne

Haley Fordham, Miriam Clarke

Golden Eagle good!

rior to this year’s Miss Mississippi Pageant, the University of Southern Mississippi hosted a trunk show for Miss USM Grace Claire Cordes in the Thad Cochran Center ballrooms. During the event, Cordes showcased her wardrobe and talent for the program. Cordes is a vocal performance major, a Luckyday Scholar and member of Chi Omega sorority. Ann Claire Reynolds, M.C. Price

Jordan Rimes, Kyndel Edens

Michael Gemelli, Randy Oswalt, Lynda Oswalt, Lyn Cordes

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Eddie Holloway, Delores McNair

M.C. Price, Grace Claire Cordes

Harmony Myhres, Kimber Atwell, Candice Luckett

Brandon Chase Welborn, Gavin Snyder

Phyllis Armstrong, Dr. Lynne Houston, Pam Shearer

Mauri and Stephanie Yarber

Ben Spiller, Emily Crum

Cindy Cofield, Madi Martin

Gil and Mary Jean Noland

Mary Margaret Turner, Barbara Hamilton

MISS WCU TRUNK SHOW

Madi Martin, Mary Margaret Turner, Chelsey Maywalt

Elaine Byrd, Kathy Vail, Barbara Gates

Pageant perfect!

W Cindy Cofield, Kenna Spiller, Alissa King, Chelsey Maywalt, Madi Martin

Carolyn and Jay Spiller

illiam Carey University hosted a trunk show for Kenna Spiller, their representative in this year’s Miss Mississippi pageant. Spiller modeled her pageant wardrobe and performed her piano talent for those in attendance.

Marvin and Carolyn Spiller

Julie Ferrell, Donnis Ross

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OLLI MEMBERSHIP SOCIAL

Sue Pace

Amber Clark, Jutta White, Joelle Crook

Pete Grisham, Carolyn Sharp, Wilvie Sharp

Tom Price

Getting to know you....

he Oscher Lifelong Learning Center, OLLI, on the University of Southern Mississippi campus held a membership social this summer. Potential members from the Pine Belt were invited to attend. The organization is made up of men and women, age 50 and older, and from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. They share the one goal – the belief that learning is a lifelong adventure.

Anne Coleman, Shelton Butler, Geneva Terry

Jim and Bobbie West

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Frances Stringer, Hughlene Perrott, Helen Erickson, Trish McRee

Ginger Smith, Susan Benson

Janette Tibbetts, Marvin Kendrick

Patsy and Albert Young

Mo Conville, Paul Erickson

Bill Pace, Geneva Terry, Sue Pace

Bobbie Miller, Ray Miller

Robin and Matt Carr

Estina Holder, Sonya Robinson

Leslie, Noah, Diana, Emma Ramey and Mickey Lambert

Alex and Sabrina Schuerger, Heather Reed, Mary Hays

DUIETT-WEYENBERG BABY SHOWER

Lee Rigdon, Christine Royals, Blake Walker

Avery Lewis, Diane Cowart

Rock-a-bye baby!

baby shower was held for for Brandy Duiett Weyenberg and Tim Weyenberg at Canebrake Country Club. Hosts for the event were Lee Rigdon, Wanda Duiett, and Cindy Armstead. Guests were invited to stop in between appointed hours.

Ronnie and Mary Thibodeaux, Paula and Wayne Pierce

Dr. Cindy Armstead, Lee Rigdon, Brandy Weyenberg, Wanda Duiett

Dawn Hutchinson, Lee Rigdon Brandy Weyenberg, Anna Claire Imel

Kristen and Matt Weyenberg

Norman and Julie Tyner, Penny Thames, Josh and Cindy Sulfin

Adam and Amelia Hays

Brooke, Leo, Linda and Britteny Weyenberg

Brandy and Tim Weyenberg

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SHAKE YOUR GROOVE THING

Sarah Morgan, Marcianne Nelson, Teresa Gwizdala, Chelsey Wade

Wally Pye, Jamie Jean, Mike Albanese

Gail Engelhardt, David Bishop, Lynn Pye

Disco Fever

he Grand Ballroom of Hattiesburg hosted a Shake Your Groove Thing Party at The Venue where guests danced the night away, many in attire of the era.

Lisa Seph, Andrea Carley

Scott Lappin, Rebecca Chandler

Brandi Deroche, Janie Craft, Joel Deroche

Michael Forster, Patricia Burns, Andrea Carley, Sylvia Forster

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Lauren Guynes, Kyle Tullos, Kristen Rizzuto

Lady Patrice, Robyn Williams

Kelly Vuyovich, Jamie Jean Jimmy Reeves, David McRay, Brian Riviere

Laura Stubbs, Lee Walker

Rena and Derrell Deroche

Raechal Junker, Anne Lackey

Phillip Kolin, Karen Adams, Christi Hudson, Wally Pye

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T Jacqueline Myas, Janice Trask, Tyler Patrick, Tristian Trask, Weathers Trask and Kendrick Trask

Camille Short, Clara Short, Emily Thompson

Monica, Zaporiah and Alvin Magee

Mitchell Williams, Deborah Chambers

Martha Nelson, Erica White, Mary Mobley

heta Sigma Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. held its 10th Biennial Pink Cotillion at the Lake Terrace Convention Center. Dr. Adina Green serves as president.

Joseph L. White, Jamille Hartfield

Tristian Trask, Jamille Hartfield, Shamiraca Williams, Ashley Luethje

Jackie Thomas, June Jones, Sydney Woody, Alisa Woody, Debra Wallace

Dr. Adina Narcisse Green, Chris Pittman, Angie Pittman, Anita Thames Knot

Daniel Jackson, Jourdan Green, Ryone Thompson, Dakota Wallace, Joseph White

THETA SIGMA OMEGA COTILLION

In the pink!

Col. (Ret.) Sheila Varnado, Ashley, Brenda and Dr. Ronald Luethje

Johnae, Kizzy, Sidney, Mya and Sydney Daniels

Sheila Burbridge, Col. Fred Varnado, Caitlyn Chambers

Greg Weathersby, Anita Thames Knott, Samone Faulkner, Tracey Seymour

Anita Thames Knott, Tyra Bembry, Samone Faulkner, Mariah Bembry, Tracey Seymour

s eptem ber 2012

MARINE CORPS CONVENTION

Alter and Denny Burk

Andy and Linda Shook

Billy and Dawn Henderson

Billie and Art Kersh

Cliff and Karen Addison

Charley Holt and Steven Palazzo

First-time visit

he Mississippi Chapter of the Marine Corps League held its state convention in Hattiesburg for the first time. During the event they elected new officers and conducted other business. A banquet was held on the Southern Miss campus. The state group was chartered several years ago and has about 400 members. Patrick Tutor serves as commandant for the state group. Clifton Addison served as convention chairman. A memorial service was held for fallen Marines.

Dr. Betty Drake

Charlene and Dennis Voge

Patrick Tutor, AB Grantham

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Debbie and Bobby Irvin

Mary Petticord, Royce Nation

David and Carolyn Welborn

Wiley and Mary Lane Sellers

Bill Lamar

Leon and Ruby Alexander

Ruth and Cpl. Andrew White

Royce and Nell Nation

Margaret and Harry Harpe

Dick Caron

Ralph and Beverly Gilliam

Pam and Ed Stutler

A B Grantham

Mark and Deborah Walton

Patrick and Frankie Tutor

Margaret and Bruce Butler Jack and Mickey Mills

Bill Perkins

s eptem ber 2012

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