Metro Christian Living - July

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JULY 2010

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2 JULY 2010 ❘ Metro Christian Living

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contents JULY 2010

®

Volume 5, Number 2 Publisher: MHS Publications, Inc., Member, M.I.P.A.

in this issue 11 The Way I See It Life in the blue zones

15 Our Daily Bread How do you keep the faith?

19 Q&A Just livin’ and laughin’ with Anita Renfroe

26 Salt & Light Act of service

features

16

lifestyle

Special Feature Lucy’s revenge—The Alzheimer’s paddling project

20

Cover Story

8 Let’s Talk It Over The awesome power in words

12 Fresh Finds Christmas in July

Art & Soul

15 Healthy Living Keep your money—lose the weight

34

27 Food For Thought

31

Fresh summer treats

28 Homeworks Making the most of dorm rooms and other small spaces

30 Legal Advice Do-it yourself estate planning—are you sure?

31 Welcome Home Get the hay in the barn

27

12

33 Money Talks Innovation and Economic Recovery

every issue

What’s Coming Next Month Cynthia Palmer

➺

6 34 36 37 38 38

Letter from the Editor Rave Reviews Photo Collage - VBS Event Calendar Quips & Quotes Ad Directory

Editor: Marilyn Tinnin marilyn@metrochristianliving.com Associate Editor: Christi B. Steckel christi@metrochristianliving.com Administrative Assistant: Carol Rodgers carol@metrochristianliving.com Contributing Writers: Lydia Bolen, Charlie Boudreaux, Dr. Stephen Coachys, Julia Daily, Roger Davis, Susan Deaver, John Graham, Cathy Haynie, William B. Howell, Susan E. Richardson, Julie Whitehead, Martin E. Willoughby Jr. Art Direction/Graphic Design: Sandra K. Goff Cover Photography: Artwork by Mary Buckley Sales: Marilyn Tinnin, Christi B. Steckel Distribution Assistants: Laura Blackledge, Hannah Coward, Kim Roberts, Carol Rodgers, Rachel Schulte, Jerri Strickland, Priscilla Sullivan, Bob Whatley

Metro Christian Living is committed to encouraging individuals in their daily lives by presenting the faith stories of others and by providing information that will point every person, at every stage of life, to a deeper, authentic, personal, and life changing encounter with Jesus Christ. Views expressed in Metro Christian Living do not necessarily represent those of the publisher. Every effort has been made by the Metro Christian Living staff to insure accuracy of the publication contents. However, we do not guarantee the accuracy of all information nor the absence of errors and omissions; hence, no responsibility can be or is assumed. All Rights Reserved. Copyright 2008 by Metro Christian Living, Inc. Scripture taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version, copyright 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of International Bible Society.

Metro Christian Living is published monthly and is available at high traffic locations throughout the metropolitan area. Copies are also available by subscription, $29 for one year. Single issues available for $3 an issue. POSTMASTER: Send change of address to Metro Christian Living, 573 Highway 51 North, Suite C, Ridgeland, MS 39157, phone number 601-790-9076.

M I P A Mississippi Independent Publishers' Alliance

4 JULY 2010 ❘ Metro Christian Living

PRISCILLA’S STORY Osteoporosis is a disease that causes bone to become weak and susceptible to fracture. Of the 10 million Americans with this disease, 80% are women, and having a mother with osteoporosis puts a daughter particularly at risk. Priscilla Turner, 67, of Memphis, TN knows this risk all too well. Her 90-year-old mother, Jewell Fondren, suffers from osteoporosis (a disease that causes bone to become weak and susceptible to fracture). Over the past 30 years, Jewell has experienced a hip fracture, spinal fractures, and has a hunched back that may have been caused by multiple spinal fractures. Jewell, who lives with her daughter, has difficulty walking, cannot bend, and finds her clothes don’t fit well because of her hunched back. Two years ago, Priscilla seemed to be heading toward the same fate as her mother when she suffered from back pain. Priscilla went to see her doctor and discovered she had a spinal fracture. She was also diagnosed with osteopenia or low bone mineral density that can lead to osteoporosis. “I just thought I was getting older,” she said. “I didn’t know my bones were breaking, but when my doctor told me I had a spinal fracture, I was very surprised.” Like Priscilla, the estimated 44 million Americans at risk for osteoporosis are often unaware that they have the disease until they break a bone, according to the National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF), sponsors of National Osteoporosis Awareness and Prevention Month. However, today more information is known about the risk factors for osteoporosis and fractures. If you have a low bone mineral density coupled with one or more other risk factors, you are at increased risk of having an osteoporosis-related fracture over the next 10 years, according to a recent publication by the World Health Organization (WHO). These risk factors include a previous fracture, a parent who has had a hip fracture, smoking, taking steroid medications, drinking three or more glasses of alcohol daily, and suffering from rheumatoid arthritis or from a disorder strongly associated with osteoporosis. Less was known about osteoporosis years ago when Priscilla’s mother was prescribed pain pills and bed rest to manage her osteoporosis-related spinal fractures. Treatments are now available to help strengthen bones, and new procedures have been developed to repair spinal fractures. When Priscilla experienced her spinal fracture, her primary care physician referred her to orthopaedic surgeon Dr. Edward Pratt* of the Memphis Spine Center, who treated her spinal fracture with balloon kyphoplasty. Balloon kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive procedure that can reduce back pain and correct the deformity caused by a spinal fracture. Small balloons are inserted and inflated in the fractured area of the spine to restore it back to its normal shape. After the balloons are deflated and removed, the cavity that has been created is filled with special bone cement, creating an internal cast. Priscilla is exceedingly close to her mother. They spend afternoons on their parlor couch, reminiscing about their years together or sitting quietly as Priscilla reads and her mother knits. However, she knows that she does not want to suffer the same fate as her mother.

“Osteoporosis has kept Mama from being as mobile as I knew her years ago,” Priscilla said. “Her movements are restricted. She cannot bend nor do many activities around the house. Her walking is limited.” When Priscilla experienced her second spinal fracture in 2007 and her activities became restricted due to the back pain, she decided to take action to avoid her mother’s fate. She again had her fracture repaired with balloon kyphoplasty and now exercises regularly and takes prescription drugs and calcium supplements to prevent more bone loss. “Today I do everything,” she said. “We have a two-story home, and I am always going up and down the steps, and I couldn’t do that before the (balloon kyphoplasty) procedures because of my back pain. I am also gardening again. I walk two miles a day and work out on weight machines. I am a very active person. I don’t sit.” The National Osteoporosis Foundation estimates that one in two women and one in four men over age 50 will experience an osteoporosis-related fracture in their lifetime. Dr. Pratt believes that efforts like National Osteoporosis Prevention and Awareness Month are helping to raise much needed awareness of the risks and treatments for osteoporosis and related fractures. “The world is beginning to gradually wake up and see that osteoporosis is a problem and that the best way to treat it is to stay ahead of it,” says Dr. Pratt. To learn more about osteoporosis, visit the National Osteoporosis Foundation at www. nof.org. For more information about spinal fractures, take the risk assessment, go to www.spinalfracture.com. *Paid consultant of Medtronic Although the complication rate with KYPHON® Balloon Kyphoplasty has been demonstrated to be low, as with most surgical procedures, there are risks associated with the procedure, including serious complications. This procedure is not for everyone. A prescription is required. Please consult your physician for a full discussion of risks and whether this procedure is right for you. For more information please call Medtronic at 1-888-645-4444 and/or visit www.kyphon.com.

If you’re over 50 or have osteoporosis, it’s important that you don’t ignore your back pain. It may signal a spinal fracture. See your doctor right away if you think you may have one.

TAKE CHARGE Don’t turn your back on back pain.

Spinal fractures can be repaired if diagnosed. KYPHON® Balloon Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive treatment for spinal fractures that can correct vertebral body deformity, reduce pain and improve patient quality of life.

before

balloon kyphoplasty

after

For more information on balloon kyphoplasty or to find a local physician performing the procedure, call 800-652-2221 or visit www.kyphon.com Although the complication rate with KYPHON® Balloon Kyphoplasty has been demonstrated to be low, as with most surgical procedures, there are risks associated with the procedure, including serious complications. This procedure is not for everyone. A prescription is required. Please consult your physician for a full discussion of risks and whether this procedure is right for you. © 2008 Medtronic Spine LLC. All Rights Reserved.

MEDTRONIC Spinal and Biologics Business 1221 Crossman Avenue Sunnyvale, CA 94089 USA Tel: (408) 548-6500 16003152_002 [01]

➺editor’s letter by MARILYN TINNIN

Created to Create

I ❝

Art washes from the soul the dust of everyday life.

❞

– Picasso

6 JULY 2010 ❘ Metro Christian Living

I pass my grand piano a dozen times a day. I try not to notice it, but the truth is I notice it in the same painful way one would notice an empty chair at Thanksgiving or Christmas. The part of me that it represents almost does not exist anymore—crowded out by the demands of the life I live in this present moment. For years that piano and I were an inseparable duo. It was an escape, a comfort, an inspiration, a challenge and a friend. I was never bored in its presence. I could lose myself in it for hours. The joy was in the journey. It was more than the mastery of random notes and rhythms. It was finding my expression in something deeper than words and far greater than myself. It was personal. It was unique. It was soul-fulfilling and it was mine. Music was my special language and something I always felt God had given to me. I discovered in the interviews for this month’s magazine that most artists feel exactly that way. Their work is so much a part of who they are that they cannot imagine being alive if that ability were taken away. I really love this issue. “Treasures in jars of clay” (2 Corinthians 4:7) is the word picture that comes to mind. In this fallen world where there is an abundance of pain and sin and all manner of evil, God has given each of us the capacity to appreciate art, music, dance, literature—so much that is beautiful—to soak it up, drink it in, and in some way be transformed by it. When the Bible speaks of being created in His image, I think one of the most evident aspects of that truth would be that the Master Artist who made the sun, the moon and the stars, has allowed us to create, too. He must delight in watching his created beings attempt to capture the blue of the summer sky at mid-day, the intricate detail of a child’s chubby hand, or the indescribable nuances of color in an autumn landscape. Mississippi and especially the Metro area, is saturated with fabulous artists. (By the way, I am married to one). We introduce you to a tiny sampling here. For every artist featured there are about five more locals whose work could literally take your breath away. And one thing that made it so difficult to pick the ones we have featured is that no two artists paint the same. They all have their own style and their own message. And who’s to say whose message is the one that would touch you right where you are today? I don’t usually offer advice, but I think I will. If you are looking for an afternoon respite from either an office filled with computer noises and beige walls or the 100 degree-plus heat index; try visiting our art galleries as a kind of mini-vacation. We are blessed for a city this size to have numerous wonderful galleries filled with outstanding local artists’ work and much of it is quite affordable. One thing I know. You are sure to have an “Aha” moment or two and you are sure to walk away feeling rejuvenated in the best kind of way! More to read in this issue—Do not miss the special feature, “Lucy’s Revenge.” Meeting Keith Plunkett was a real God-thing. Such encounters happen to me all the time and I am at a loss to explain why in the world they do—except that God knows I love to tell a story. Keith surely has one. If you have ever been touched in any way by loving someone who developed Alzheimer’s, you will want to read this feature. Who knows…even if you don’t go out and buy a kayak, you might want to try paddling one on the internet! All of our writers have a great message this month. Do not miss “Our Daily Bread” or “Home Works,” or “The Way I See it” or anything else! We have packed so much into this that you might just want to keep it close for a cover-to-cover read over the next few days. I wish you a happy Fourth of July. In a time when many things seem unstable…it is a huge comfort to remember that our God is the same yesterday, today, and forever…He changes not. In all of our anxiety over the present and the future, we can find peace in the reality that our God holds time in His Hands. We know WHO holds the future. Therefore, we are not afraid. Y

Marilyn H. Tinnin, Publisher and Editor marilyn@metrochristianliving.com

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➺let’s talk it over by CHARLIE BOUDREAUX

T

The Awesome Power in Words

his month we celebrate our nation’s freedom—the independence to selfgovern earned at a high price. Many colonists died and others lost all they owned fighting to make this freedom happen. Christians have the opportunity everyday to celebrate a different kind of freedom. We have “died to self” and accepted God’s payment for the penalty of our sin through Jesus’ sacrificial death on the cross. We are free to have an intimate, personal relationship with God—the sin barrier has been removed. And His gift continues, with God we have His awesome power in us to be able to have relationships that are more open, intimate and loving. One way God helps in relationships is by giving us the power of words. Words are powerful and can build, encourage, inspire, heal. In the Bible (Hebrews 4:12) we read these words, “For the word of God is living and active. It is sharper than any two edged sword, piercing even to the dividing of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a judge of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” Again in Proverbs 25:11 “A word aptly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver.” We can expand upon this to understand that a spoken word is like a living organism, capable of growing, changing, spreading, and influencing the world in

many ways, directly and indirectly through others. Consider the words of Rudyard Kipling, “Words are, of course, the most powerful drug used by mankind.” Although it’s more than 29 years since my daughter was born, I can still remember that day, when the doctor said “It’s a girl!” Those three words changed my life. That’s the power of words. And there’s the note given to me by my son with the words, “I love you Daddy”. WOW! Talk about being pumped! I never tire of having someone tell me how much they appreciate me or how much they love me. In the Bible we read, “Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.” (Col. 4:6) This is God’s prescription for choosing and using words carefully—as a means to bless others. If we are not careful with our words, relationships could be damaged. Most of us are easily hurt by words. We are especially vulnerable to the words of persons dear to us. We sometimes strike back when we have been hurt. Words can become powerful weapons to inflict damage. There is an old saying “sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me.” I remember saying those words when I was young to

try and convince myself of its truth in the face of painful words thrown my way. Unfortunately, it is far from true. Words are powerful to build up or to destroy. It has been said we need to give ten positive statements to make up for the hurt caused by one negative statement. One of the most powerful forms of healing is found in seven simple words; “I am sorry. Will you forgive me?”. In the same way we have experienced God’s forgiveness, so God empowers and expects us to extend and ask for forgiveness for others. What a blessing when relationships are at peace! We can thank God for granting us the power of words so that we can join Him in the work of creation—seeing persons transformed by the power of love expressed through His Word, Jesus, and through our words as His disciples. As we realize the power of words to incite and divide, to calm and connect, or to create and effect change, let us be ever more cautious in what we say and how we listen to the words around us.Y

e e Dr. Charles A Boudreaux Associate Pastor of Counseling First Baptist Church Jackson Clinical Supervisor Summit Counseling

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8 JULY 2010 ❘ Metro Christian Living

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FIND YOUR PLUS

IN FLOWOOD! 10 JULY 2010 ❘ Metro Christian Living

FIND FAITH. FIND FAMILY. FIND YOUR FUTURE.

by MARTIN E. WILLOUGHBY, JR.

➺

the way i see it

Life in the

Blue Zones Lose 5-10 Pounds in 2 Weeks Medically Supervised Weight Loss BOTOX, VelaShape, Laser Treatments & More!

D

Dr. Ellsworth Wareham is a cardiothoracic surgeon and performs three to five open-heart procedures a week. What makes Dr. Wareham’s activities of particular interest is that he is ninety-five years “young.” Dr. Wareham’s remarkable quantity and quality of life was noted in Dan Buettner’s best selling book The Blue Zones. In this book, Buettner and his team of researchers studied areas of the world where people commonly live active lives past the age of 100 years. So far they have identified five areas they call the “blues zones”. Okinawa, Japan, Sardinia, Italy, Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica, and Loma Linda, California were all described in his book. Last year, Buettner’s team announced another blue zone in Ikaria, Greece, and rightfully so. In this town, 1 in 3 people live into their nineties! In addition, Ikarians suffer 20% less cancer, half the rate of heart disease, and there’s virtually no dementia. Overall, people living in blue zones live on average 7-10 years longer than people living in other areas. Based on the research of these blue zones, Buettner distilled his findings down to some key principles for longevity. He found that people living in blue zones stay active and move naturally. They aren’t marathoners or body builders, but they are active and vigorous in their lifestyles choosing to walk when they could ride, or cultivating their gardens. They also aren’t gluttons or fast food consumers. They eat in moderation and have plant-based diets. They don’t eat a lot of processed food or sugar. The Okinawans have a saying “Hara Hachi Bu” which means that you should eat until you are about 80% full. Buettner also found that they are people who have a sense of purpose. They have a reason to get up in the morning. They are aslo connected with a close knit community of family and friends. While they are hard working, they take time to relax, rest, and reflect. In other words, they have “margin” in

their lives. Finally, having a genuine life of faith was found as a common characteristic of people living in these blues zones. Of particular note was the blue zone in Loma Linda, California because of the belief system, Seventh Day Adventists, of which Dr. Wareham belongs. There are about one million Seventh Day Adventists in the United States and around 100,000 of them have or are participating in extensive long-term studies about the health benefits of their lifestyle. Adventist historian George Knight stated, “Deep in our culture is the idea that our bodies are the temples of the Holy Spirit and we ought to take care of them.” When you look at the findings of Buettner and his team, it’s interesting how they really are Biblically based concepts. Our challenge in our fast paced, fast food, marginless society is how to recapture some of these basic precepts. To some degree, we are all seeking the good life. However, the irony is that all of our technology, anti-aging creams, and fad diets won’t get us there. As Buettner discovered in his research, a life of family, friends, faith, and proper eating and exercise is the best way to enjoy the quality and quantity of our days. In Mississippi, we really could lead the way on this as we are a people of faith and family, and we have a rich agricultural history. Unfortunately, our eating and exercise has limited our future. However, we all have the power of choice, and we can return to a way of life as God intended. I am hopeful that we will reembrace these simple, but powerful principles and maybe one day someone will be studying a blue zone right here in Mississippi. Y

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Martin E. Willoughby Jr. is an attorney/business consultant with Willoughby Law Group, PLLC located in Ridgeland. He and his wife Nicki have two children, Ally and Trey, and live in Madison metrochristianliving.com ❘ JULY 2010 11

➺fresh finds by JULIA DAILY

2 3 1

It’s

Christmas in July at the

Mississippi Crafts Center

5 4

1

Garden Mosais by Teresa Haygood-McIntosh

You won’t have to worry about watering a garden if you buy this mosaic one by Teresa Haygood-McIntosh. She is a master craftsman of mosaics and has a large variety available, from stepping stones for the garden to birdbaths. See her exquisite work today at the Craft Center and forget about the garden hose!

2

Heirloom Pottery by Susan Freeman

Susan Freeman has perfected the cut-away design in pottery that draws tourists and collectors alike. Her glazes in blues, greens, turquoises and reds offer something for everyone. Come by the Center today to continue your Freeman collection or begin what will be an Heirloom for tomorrow.

12 JULY 2010 ❘ Metro Christian Living

3

Copper Perfection by Louise and Don Coulson

This duo have perfected copper design, bringing out its colors in their cuff bracelets, earrings and necklaces. Very reasonable prices, cuffs range from $25-40. A wide variety is available.

4

Picking Ballet by Lee Washington

In celebration of the International Ballet Competition and many dancers in Jackson, Lee Washington has recycled cotton picker parts from the Delta into graceful ballerinas. Choose your favorite from a class full of different poses at the Center. Perfect for the aspiring dancer in your family or as an award after a performance. $40-50

5

Fabulous Fashion by Sami Lott

When one wears a Sami Lott Original they are literally stopped in the street and asked, “Whom are you wearing?” You feel as if you are walking the red carpet! Her clothes are fresh, different, unique and fun. She uses great fabrics with many textures and layers and works unexpected details into each garment. Try them on at the Craft Center and check to see when the next trunk show or Wearable Art Fashion Show will be held. (Modeled by Jonah)

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➺Q&A

by CHRISTI B. STECKEL and CAROL RODGERS

Just Livin’ and Laughin’

withAnita

Renfroe

S

he has been called the “Mother of all Comedians” and “this generation’s Erma Bombeck”, but national recognized Christian comedian Anita Renfroe doesn’t mind the name calling. She’s been calling it like it is since her

unexpected stardom on YouTube launched her career all the way to Good Morning America. This Mississippi College grad became a pastor’s wife when she married local boy, John Renfroe from Pearl. They now live in Atlanta with their three grown children and Anita is now being called, Grandma. But life doesn’t stop there, she is set to launch her latest DVD, “Big Ol’ Sweet Iced Tea” this month and taking the show on the road this fall. MCL caught up with “Grandmother of all Comedians” and learned a little about balance and a lot about laughing.

Q

How do you divide quality family time with being on the road?

Anita: We’ve

Q

always operated on multiplication rather than division. We learned that when we had more than one child—the love doesn’t have to be split up to go around, it just multiplies. Although, time is finite we’ve learned that you can sure get a lot more done when you know you have to! Since our kids are all grown now we try to reconnect with anyone who can get to our table around Sundays and pray for more protracted times of holidays and vacations as we can.

Q

Who in your family did you get your sense of humor from?

Anita:

I don’t really know—there are a LOT of funny people in our family, but most of them are not intentionally funny.

Q

How do you come up with new and fresh material?

Anita: Keep livin’, honey. Keep livin’. Stuff

What have been the biggest ups and downs of being a successful entertainer and mother?

Anita: Biggest up: your kids being proud of you. Biggest down: your kids being mortified by what you’ve just said. 14 JULY 2010 ❘ Metro Christian Living

Q

Q

What do you hope women take away after going to your shows?

Anita:

A healthy dose of laughter (because it is healthy for you!) and hope. And the feeling that, if we are all laughing at the same things we are more alike than we are different. Laughter is very unifying.

What made you decide to put your act on YouTube?

Anita: My kids were the ones who said, “Mom, you DO realize that you are the ONLY comic who doesn’t have a clip on YouTube?” So they kinda shamed me into it. They also made me leave it up there by saying, “Mom (rolled eyes, exasperated sighs) you CAN’T take it down or it will never go viral.” But up until that point, anything in our household that went “viral” led to someone cleaning up with lots of Lysol. Needless to say, I was a YouTube newbie.

happens—and most of it is funny if you’re just paying any attention at all. Plus it’s always great to eat sketchy tacos and go to bed. You can dream up all kinds of stuff.

Q

Anita: I met my husband at church (McLaurin Heights in Pearl). The church was having a dinner on the grounds (I truly miss those)—it was love at first bite (of food). And they were having an afternoon sangin’ (if you have to ask, you don’t know). My kids are The. Greatest. Ever. They grew up to be the kind of people we want to hang out with and (most of the time) I think they feel the same way about us. They are bringing us beautiful grandbabies, and we are very excited about this.

Q

hidden unicorns. There is no such thing as “balance” (except maybe on your tires on your car)—it’s just someone’s opinion of how you should be dividing your time. I think everyone has their priorities—because we always vote with our time and our money to say what those truly are, but Paul tells us that Jesus is “pre-eminent” in all things, the first of the firsts, the center of the wheel, the spark from which all things are created. That just doesn’t strike me as something you can reduce to prioritization.

How did you meet your husband and tell us about your children?

Q

Tell us about your new DVD coming out July 20th.

Anita: It’s called “Big Ol’ Sweet Iced Tea”

How do you balance work and your Christian life (prayer time, Bible study, church)?

because I believe that is something us southerners are very passionate about. It’s got an hour-plus of new comedy and songs and a couple of pretty funny parody videos. We are also touring the “Big Ol’ Sweet Iced Tea” show across the country in the fall and spring and hope to make a stop in Mississippi so we can eat at Jerry’s Catfish as much as possible.

Anita: Who balances anything? I mean really If anyone tells you they are succeeding at that you might need to check them for

To learn more about Anita’s performance and order her new DVD out July 20th visit www.anitarenfroe.com

healthy living by DR. STEPHEN COACHYS

Keep your Money Lose the Weight

M

ore and more I am seeing younger adults come in with medical problems normally seen in older adults; diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and arthritis in thirty and fortyyear-old men and women. The one common factor is these patients are overweight or obese. I don’t want to go over statistics about how “fat” Mississippi as a state has become, we all know that those facts. I want to express what weight loss can do to your pocket book and your joints. According to several studies, a person with diabetes takes 2.5 medicines to treat this condition. The same holds true for treatment of high blood pressure. Add a medicine for high cholesterol and you’re taking six medicines. Even with good insurance, co-pay for each medicine averages twenty-five dollars. Therefore, you spend $125 dollars a month on medicine. Over 10 years you will spend $15,000-$20,000 on co-pays alone! Don’t forget, people who develop these

conditions are more apt to become sick and/or have longer hospital stays also. This is why losing just 10% of your body weight drastically decreases your chances of developing this conditions. As I mentioned, I am seeing 30 and 40 year old people with joint pain, especially in their knees. For every pound of weight you lose, you take 4 pounds of pressure off each knee! So, if you lose 20 pounds, it’s the equivalent of losing 80 pounds of pressure on your knees. Believe me your knees will thank you! If you have any questions about weight loss, please call me and my staff at Remedy Weight Loss and Medi Spa at 769-251-1040. Be sure to check out our website at www.remedyweightloss.com You can gain valuable tips on weight loss and see our approach to losing weight the right way. We offer three comprehensive plans that are tailored around your lifestyle. We want to help

you find the right fit. Whether its 5 pounds or 50 pounds, losing weight can help you gain financially, physically, and mentally.

THREE QUICK TIPS TO GET YOU STARTED: 1. Increase your water intake. 6-8 eight ounce glasses a day. 2. Cut the carbs! Lowering your carb intake decreases your insulin production. Thus your body’s metabolism works more efficiently you’re less hungry. 3. Exercise 30 minutes daily. Doesn’t have to be all at once, do three 10 minute intervals throughout the day. Just do it! Y Dr. Stephen Coachys is a family physician practicing in Byram and Ridgeland.

metrochristianliving.com ❘ JULY 2010 15

➺special feature by MARILYN TINNIN

Lucy’s Revenge The Alzheimer’s Paddling Project In the United States, 5.3 million people are living with Alzheimer’s disease, and a new individual is diagnosed with the disease every 70 seconds. Unless something is done, by 2050, up to 16 million Americans will have Alzheimer’s, and a new case will be diagnosed every 33 seconds.

H

e calls himself a “paddling enthusiast.” For the next twelve months Keith Plunkett will spend his weekends following that passion on the waterways across Mississippi. But the journey that promises to be about 600 miles total is more than a pleasure trip. Keith, in partnership with the Mississippi Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, is using his hobby to raise funds and awareness of the disease that presently afflicts 53,000 individuals in our state. Consider, too, that 148,000 more Mississippians are cast in an unpaid role as caregiver. With the graying of the Baby Boomers, it is certain Alzheimer’s numbers will continue to climb. But sheer statistics of dollars and numbers do not communicate the personal grief that Alzheimer’s inflicts on friends and family who watch their loved one slip day-by-day into the abyss of a ruthless disease. Keith Plunkett can tell you all about it.

His inspiration His “mamaw,” Lucy Plunkett of the Little

16 JULY 2010 ❘ Metro Christian Living

Yazoo community, was the matriarch of the Plunkett clan. She reared six children and oversaw the upbringing of nine grandchildren. Lucy was for all of them, larger than life—loving, giving, serving others, and as Keith says, “She showed me, and anyone else willing to see, the value of a life dedicated to Christ. The golden rule was as integral a part of her life as putting on clothes every morning, and she lived more closely to Paul’s exhortation to live a life of prayer, “without ceasing more than any person I have ever known. It was all balanced by the rarest of humility.” Lucy considered herself a homemaker, but “multi-tasker supreme” would be a more apt title. “…Lucy Plunkett worked harder and had a more diverse job description than most career

driven modern women could handle,” Keith says. “Depending on the time of year, she might be doing a variety of chores, from community volunteer work to making payroll, or feeding dozens of farm workers; from acting as director for church activities to acting as a base contact of radio operations for a fully functioning farm and fertilizer business.” Keith describes a typical scene in his grandmother’s kitchen. Daily she prepared lunch for dozens of farm workers and she might be stirring a pot with one hand while calling in parts orders to a nearby tractor company with the other. Occasionally she would slip to the back of the house, sit down at her piano and play a few

favorite hymns. Her sense of joy and gratitude for life was almost tangible. You couldn’t know Miss Lucy and miss that fact—which made Alzheimer’s seem that much more cruel because it took all of that away from her. Looking back, Keith contrasts his grandmother’s purpose driven life to the sometimes shallow lives we pursue in today’s culture. “Lucy’s example is that we as Christians must live the life we’re given.� He quotes the familiar adage that she “bloomed where she was planted,� so to speak. She grasped the fact that she held a significant place in the lives of others, and in that realization she felt fulfilled. “Lucy Plunkett put her faith out there every day. She worked out in her life and others’ the blessings that God had given her,� Plunkett said.

“To have a disease rob her of the memories of those blessings was tough for my family to watch.� Keith has found that most families of Alzheimer’s victims tell similar stories of noticing subtle changes at first that over time become more severe. His grandmother began to get lost when she left home. Even in the most familiar of surroundings, she would lose her way. Then she lost track of the passage of time and the days of the week. It was not unusual to find her getting dressed for church on a Tuesday or Wednesday morning.

Raising Awareness Keith calls Lucy’s Revenge “a year long process of discovery.� He has spent the last few months getting the word out through a website, www.Lucysrevenge.com, collecting donations, securing sponsors, and creatively implementing his idea. A GPS with a real-time map will track Keith’s travels. A Paddling Partners Program will allow others to form competing paddling teams to raise money. Keith has also issued an invitation for any guest paddlers to join him on any given day. His schedule and location will be posted on the website with frequent updates. His first leg of the excursion will launch from Fort Bayou in Ocean Springs on July 10. Between then and June, 2011, he will set his kayak down in more than 30 different

waterways. Actually he’s booked for 40 of the next 52 weekends! In addition to the GPS tracking of this adventure, Keith will be telling the stories of Mississippi families affected by Alzheimer’s. The Alzheimer’s Association is helping him locate people who are willing to share. Reflecting on his family’s experience he is confident that the interviews and videos he creates will become a resource for others. The “paddling enthusiast� has spent the last two months researching everything he could find on the disease. He is talking to health care providers and nursing home facilities to find out how they are addressing the needs of their patients and families and he has spent considerable time absorbing current data that was not available when Lucy was battling Alzheimer’s in the early 1990’s. Although, a cure remains elusive, researchers have made strides in understanding it and a future cure is hopeful. In the meantime, Keith Plunkett will be committed to doing whatever he can to honor his grandmother’s memory by drawing attention to Alzheimer’s devastation. He sees this whole idea as a calling of sorts, something God put on his heart to do. “I see this project as a symbol of me taking back what Alzheimer’s took from her.� By all means check out the website www.lucysrevenge.com. Or contact Keith and invite him to speak to your club! Y

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18 JULY 2010 â?˜ Metro Christian Living

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by SUSAN DEAVER

➺

our daily bread

How Do You Keep “Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves.”

THE FAITH?

Apple Annie’s GIFT SHOP

Dress your baby from head to toe!

– Romans 12:10

T

his column is for sharing our faith with other readers. Sharing with— and serving others changes us and reminds us that our time on earth is about much more than our own needs. To share your story or favorite scripture, please email us at info@metrochristianliving.com.

Glynn Pope Your grill is stoked and an ice cream churn is humming just outside your back door. Swim toys and a pair of flip-flops litter your porch. I hope your family and friends are well and in full summer swing, “Magnolia style.” Our common ground on this month’s national holiday will furnish us with a patriotic flashback and if we’re sane, a tear of gratitude. By the time the fireworks fade into the night sky the “Old Glory” will have her due and our too brief brush with history will be little more than a tidy close to the first half of 2010. Should our collective birthday actually “matter” – or even make a difference? It goes against reason and the American spirit of optimism, but what if we consider what the world might be like without another “Fourth of July.” As we gleefully celebrate, our nation is showing signs of aging. We are forgetting our

founders, our future and ourselves. Our national heartbeat is no better. Liberty is almost out of circulation. We seem very vulnerable to fear and paralysis. A mere patriotic salute or a token “In God We Trust” may not be enough to keep America alive. Nor will a generic “God Bless America” save us. The God of our founding is distinctly Christian. Though that fact may be unpopular, it is undeniably reassuring. The God of our fathers just happens to be Father to Jesus Christ. This year our birthday falls on the Lord’s Day. We can begin our national recovery by gathering with God’s people, responding to the Holy Spirit, and truly becoming “One nation under God.” Happy Birthday America…. and many more! Glynn and his wife Angela have been married for 21 years and have three children; Wesley, Elena, and Bennett Ray. Glynn is the middle son of Donnie and Glenda Pope, Missionaries to Mexico and the Navajo Nation since 1969. He is in his tenth year serving the congregation at Lakeshore Church in Byram, as Pastor of Church Life.

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Deborah Wilcher I just wanted to write a thank you note to your magazine and also to Ms. Wanda Pitts who shared “How she keeps the faith” in the May issue. I’m not from the Jackson area, but when I’m in Jackson, I always try to pick up a copy of your magazine, because I enjoy it so much. On May 18th, my husband, Harold was diagnosed with leukemia. In the May issue, Ms. Wanda Pitts shared her testimony, which has helped me so much. One word “Remember” keeps her balanced and in faith. I have read and re-read her testimony. We are Christians and we know all too well that God has delivered us through many troubles. HE IS FAITHFUL. Sometimes when we’re in a trial, we forget what an awesome God we serve. This article has helped to remind us to “Remember”. We have had many prayers from our families and friends from across the country lifted up for my husband over the past few weeks. He had his first chemo treatment on June 3rd and on June 16th we returned for blood work.

When the doctor walked in the room, he had a smile on his face. He said, “Mr. Wilcher, I have some good news...Your blood work shows that your white blood count is down from 147,000 to 13,000 in just 13 days after your treatment. It’s a miracle!” My husband and I were crying tears of joy. We were praising God for this miracle. Then his doctor says, “Let’s pray”. He took our hands and said the most awesome prayer, thanking God for the miracle. How wonderful to have a doctor who gives God the praise for healing. My husband is still scheduled for some more treatments, but we are still praising God for his marvelous works. I’m so thankful for Ms. Pitts sharing her word “REMEMBER” and GOD IS FAITHFUL. We, as Christians know this, but sometimes it helps to be reminded by someone else. Ms. Pitts and your magazine have been a wonderful blessing to us this past month. May God bless you as you are a blessing to others. Y

“Chinch Bugs to Cockroaches... Your Bugs are OUR Problem” Jimmy Carruth (601) 824-1039 www.jppestcontrol.com metrochristianliving.com ❘ JULY 2010 19

➺cover story

COMPILED BY CHRISTI B. STECKEL AND MARILYN TINNIN

ART

&SOUL

“I have been blessed to have the opportunities to work as a self-employed artist even in today’s economy and am able to support myself doing something I love to do.” What did you want to be when you grew up? I never thought about doing anything other than art. It is just who I am.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CHRISTINA CANNON

SARAH MCTAGGART

In many ways art is an expression of the soul. Meet 15 local artists, all with different expressions who share the same Creator.

Was there a moment when you knew this was your purpose and passion? Growing up I dreamed of having my art in a gallery. This dream came true for me when my art was accepted by the Jackson Street Gallery. Ms. Paula Jackson has been a special mentor for me. All her encouragement has helped me grow as an artist. The most fulfilling part of selling a piece is meeting the people and hearing how my art makes them happy and how they enjoy having it in their home. What gives you inspiration? When I look around at God’s creation I think about how beautiful and creative God is. He is the Master Artist. He did not have to make everything so detailed and beautiful, but He did. I am a visual person so I notice details in everything. I think about how I would paint a scene. I am also inspired by other artist’s work. Did you have a mentor or teacher that inspired your creative talent? I have snap shots in my memory of moments in my life, and one of the most vivid was Wyatt Waters coming to my ninth grade art class at Clinton High School. He introduced me to the world of color. He painted a portrait for us and used every color except flesh tones. Later in life I was able to take an art class under him at Belhaven. The first rule he had was no black paint in his class. I learned how to see color in everything from him.

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Where and when do you feel the most creative? When you are a self-employed artist for a profession and you feel like it or not. There is nothing better than when I feel creative and can lose myself in a painting that comes from my soul. What do you enjoy most about creating your art? When I paint I feel a spiritual connection to God to because He gave me the ability I have. I feel that when we use the gift He has given us we are the closest to Him. 20 JULY 2010 ❘ Metro Christian Living

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MARY BUCKLEY

What did you want to be when you grew up? I had no clue! Was there a moment when you knew this was your purpose and passion? I don’t know if there was a ‘moment’ per say, but there was a ‘season’ in which I experimented and studied art for the first time. During that time I developed a passion for being a serious artist. What gives you inspiration? When I look around this beautiful world and see God’s handiwork. I want to make a representation which will give Him glory and remind us of what an awesome creator He is. Did you have a mentor or teacher that inspired your creative talent? My mother was a well-respected artist in the Jackson area. She was represented by Brown’s Fine Art and taught art at Holmes Community College. I learned volumes from her, and continue to learn as I remember how she lived her life as an artist. Where and when do you feel the most creative? 24-7 Whether I am staring at a huge blank canvas, a dreary room, or considering what to cook, I want to create something new and beautiful. What message do you hope to share through your art? “The whole earth is full of His glory.” Isaiah 6:3 If you could describe your art in one word, what would it be? Light What do you enjoy most about creating your art? Tapping into the creative energy of the Holy Spirit. It’s amazing!

To learn more about Mary Buckley visit www.southernbreeze.net

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BILL WILSON

What did you want to be when you grew up? As a kid I went through a number of the standards: paleontologist, motorcycle cop, movie star, and a superhero. I was studying for the ministry for a while, but my passion for the arts always came bubbling back to the surface. I could never quite turn it off. After a great deal of thought and prayer, I began to realize that one could serve the Lord in many ways and art was what He had called me for. What gives you inspiration? I paint things as they are; I paint things as I would like them to be; I paint things as I dream of them having once been. This lets me find inspiration in any and everything. Looking at something as mundane as a fork, I’ll either find myself studying how the light is playing off the surface, or I begin to transmogrify it into some sort of character with its own unique personality for a story I’m writing. Even the least attractive thing can inspire the artist in me. Why, sometime I even look in the mirror and...oh, never mind. What message do you hope to share through your art? I love to tell stories. With my portraits, I’m not just trying to get a likeness, that’s the easy part. I want to convey something about that person as an individual, tell their story. It’s the same with my gallery work and illustrations. A work of art should take the viewer into another world; a world one can loose oneself in, at least for a little while. Years of thinking of each work of art as a story in and of itself made it easy for me to begin writing and illustrating children’s books. My second book that was published just a few months ago, The Fib: A Wordy Tale, was for me a perfect blending of art and literature, supporting one another to tell a story. As far as I’m concerned, art without story is just dry technique or navel gazing. What do you enjoy most about creating your art? The Scottish Olympian Eric Liddell said, “I believe that God made me for a purpose, but He also made me fast. When I run, I feel His pleasure.” Just substitute painting for running and you get the idea. When I paint, I feel His pleasure.

GAIL PITTMAN “It is my prayer that everyone could get up every day and look forward to their work the way I do each day...what a great blessing! And thankfully…I know it.” What did you want to be when you grew up? A rock star! Was there a moment when you knew this was your purpose and passion? Absolutely! The moment I painted my very first bowl at the kitchen table...I thought it was fabulous. It wasn’t, but I really do believe I heard music! What gives you inspiration? I have been inspired by many different things at different times in my career...maybe something from nature or a certain combination of color that made me smile. Now I am inspired by the challenge of designing products for the home that have purpose, flexibility, and great style for the way people live today. I have no desire to create products that are of no use, it is a waste of time and natural resources to do that. I am inspired today by looking to the lasting beauty of cherished antiques and objects from the past and updating them for today’s lifestyle. Did you have a mentor or teacher that inspired your creative talent? I could not find any ceramic artists when I first began painting, so I was pretty much self taught, but there were some valuable life lessons that I feel made a big difference in my career along the way. My paternal grandmother “Grannie”, was a great lady of style and hospitality, while having the humble heart of a servant. You would never find a paper napkin in her home, much less a paper plate! My maternal grandmother, “Nana”, was a single mother who sold shoes at the Cinderella Shoe Shop in downtown Jackson during the depression, working even when she was sick, because she knew there were 10 people waiting to take her job. From these two women I learned about hospitality, style, serving, giving back, and work ethic. It was God who put the Spirit of creativity in my heart. I guess you could say...He made my heart sing...and I’ve been singing ever since!

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Where and when do you feel the most creative? I draw and sketch all the time. It is the only way I can focus. I sit in meetings and draw. I carry designs around in my head around for weeks, months and internalize them. I even dream about them. I have often said to be an artist just might be to dwell on the edge of insanity! But the feeling I have when it starts coming together is a thrill I can hardly describe...it’s just a feeling of “knowing” it is right that I’ve got it down. What message do you hope to share through your art? There is always an inspiration behind each design...a purpose...a reason for it to be. I hope that when someone sees one of my designs they see the love I have for my career, and the gratitude I carry in my heart to God for the great blessing of the gift he has given me.

To learn more about Gail Pittman visit www.gailpittman.com

Is there anything else you would like to share? Yes, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart as working for the Lord, not for men.” Colossians 3:23. First Corinthians 10:31 says much the same thing. My first duty as an artist is serving God by being the best artist I can be. My second duty is conveying a message. In short, telling a story. And as Christians our stories should serve God and be created for the enlightenment of our fellow man.

To learn more about Bill Wilson visit www.billwilsonstudio.com

metrochristianliving.com ❘ JULY 2010 21

What did you want to be when you grew up? Then, as now, I had no crystal clear career goals, more ideas of how I wanted to live, places I wanted to travel, mountains I wanted to climb, injustices I wanted to help conquer. I always loved to draw and paint, but I also loved to play basketball and sing and play in the creek. As I teenager I continued most of those things as well as hiking in the New Hampshire in the summers and building community with friends and family. None of those offered much direction for the future, except perhaps a desire to do more of the same. I still don’t know what to be when I grow up. I’ll take any ideas you have.

PHOTO COURTESY OF JAMES PATTERSON

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ELLEN LANGFORD

Was there a moment when you knew this was your purpose and passion? My first junior year in college I was at Ole Miss, having transferred from my liberal arts college in the northeast to try pre-med, at which I was a disaster. At Ole Miss I withdrew from most of the pre-med classes second semester and added instead philosophy, history, government, journalism, and painting with Jere Allen. It was in Professor Allen’s class I first felt that the passion I’d always had for creating images could be translated into a life choice. Where and when do you feel the most creative? To be a serious artist one doesn’t have the luxury to wait for creativity to strike; I have to keep working, constantly, and occasionally I find really inspirational, creative things will happen, seemingly by themselves. What message do you hope to share through your art? I don’t want to preach any particular message through my work. We all have our own interpretation of what’s before us and I don’t want to hit anyone over the head with my opinions. I do hope, however, I can share with my viewers the ideas of closeness of beings, delight in color and form, and harmony that I often experience at the finish of a work. What do you enjoy most about creating your art? The on-going conversation with the viewer. Pushing space and color. Finding where I’m wrong and fixing it, learning lessons, sometimes the same ones over and over.

To learn more about Ellen Langford visit www.ellenlangford.com

DOT-T DEHMER I believe that everyone is creative; the direction it takes can be surprising and the possibilities endless. It requires a willingness to risk the adventure to discover it and be dedicated to it. What did you want to do when you grew up? I dreamed of having an orphanage.

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Was there a moment when you knew this was your purpose and passion? I cannot say that art is my purpose. I can say that I would rather be designing with scraps than almost anything, so it is probably my passion. What gives you inspiration? The scraps. I see shapes and designs and go from there. Also, an idea or focus like angels, flowers, or ‘polka-dot-tee” whimsical ladies can keep my imagination flowing. I love to illustrate books with deeper meanings and concepts like environmental issues (The Wasteful Part), and loss and grief (The Best Part and the Worst Part). I see images in my mind and then I start tearing the paper. I do not draw the design first. I do not know how to draw! Where and when do you feel the most creative? I feel most creative in my art room. One wall I painted with butterflies, 22 JULY 2010 ❘ Metro Christian Living

GINNY FUTVOYE Was there a moment when you knew this was your purpose and passion? My purpose is to use those gifts God’s given me for his glory. Since I was young I have painted but during college I took a summer course in Taos New Mexico. Everyday I was outdoors painting, learning from my professors and colleagues. It was that summer that I grew as an artist and realized painting was my passion. What gives you inspiration? I paint because I am inspired by what the ultimate Creator has already created: the organic lines of a tree, the contrast of the red bird against the winter landscape, the negative shapes formed in a still life, the warm light creating shadows in my sunroom, or the brilliant colors of an old barn at dusk. Did you have a mentor or teacher that inspired your creative talent? As much as I would like to list all the wonderful professors I have had in high school, college and from workshops, I will have to say my parents have been my mentors. When art classes weren’t available in our small town, they researched and found courses for me to take. They cut out newspaper clippings for me to read about artist and exhibitions. (To this day I still find them on my bedside table when I return home) After buying me art books, they would take me to museums and galleries. But more than anything they were constant encouragers. Even when I brought strange paintings or sculptures home from college, they continued to be supporters. They never once stifled my creative aspirations. What message do you hope to share through your art? I am brought to Philippians 4:8, “Finally brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy— think about such things.” When I am painting, the subject matters that I choose hopefully encourage these thoughts.

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What do you enjoy most about creating your art? The unexpected. When I paint I start with an image whether it be a wooded landscape, vase of flowers, or bed of zinnias. Probably a third of the way into it, I do not look at the image but paint from intuition. Sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn’t. But it’s the unexpected colors and textures that I enjoy most in a completed painting.

To learn more about Ginny Futvoye visit www.ginnyfutvoye.com

flowers, clouds and life-size grandchildren. Another wall has shelves of early artwork. The room is chocked full of quotes, paraphrases, favorite childhood things, art from friends, designs laid out to glue, scrapbooks, pictures, photo albums, journals and boxes of prints and my greeting cards and other projects I have worked on. There is barely room to walk; it is very messy, but it is a fun creative place for me. What do you enjoy most about creating your art? I enjoy art because when I am working with ‘scrap art’ I am completely absorbed in it and no other thoughts go through my mind. It has a peace about it. Collage is about serendipity. It is having no idea of the finished product, not choosing the obvious, using a discarded scrap as the most important piece, finding an unexpected scrap, saving a scrap for years and being inspired by it, believing in the importance of negative shapes, knowing that nothing it wasted and TRUSTING. Collage mimics faith and life!

LAURA PENNEBAKER What did you want to be when you grew up? I wanted to be an interior designer.

JERRIE GLASPER

Was there a moment when you knew this was your purpose and passion? After my first painting class at Ole Miss, I knew painting was something I wanted to do the rest of my life.

Was there a moment when you knew this was your purpose and passion? At the age of 19 years old, it happened to be my lot to win the Mississippi Duck Stamp Competition in 1983. The following year I was the Ducks Unlimited Artist of the Year and placed 7th place in the Federal Duck Stamp Competition in that same year. Naturally, my confidence increased. I began to voraciously read more books about color theory, art history, and various painting techniques for oils, watercolors, and acrylics.

What gives you inspiration? God’s creation is my main inspiration. The way light and shadow can transform a subject, and the way colors change throughout the day. Did you have a mentor or teacher that inspired your creative talent? James Baker at Jackson Academy was a real encouragement to me and also, Jere Allen from Ole Miss taught me how to use vibrant colors. Where and when do you feel the most creative? I feel the most creative when I am outside observing nature. What message do you hope to share through your art? Through my work, I hope to reflect just a tiny fraction of the wonderful Creation of our Lord and bring a touch of joy to those who view it.

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If you could describe your art in one word, what would it be? Colorful

What do you enjoy most about creating your art? My most favorite thing about creating art is making it my own. My work is very loose, energetic and has a definite style. There is something so fun about your art not looking like anyone else’s art therefore, I have a great appreciation for other artists’ works.

To learn more about Laura Pennebaker visit laurapennebaker.com

What gives you inspiration? There are times when inspiration is elusive; usually when there are in balances in my life. Unexpectedly, however, my muse will appear in the light that dapples over the surface of a leaf, a stone, cattails, or the reflection in creek waters, for example. She (my muse) makes her sudden appearance sometimes on lazy days as I’m looking up in awe of the heavenly firmament and cloud formations. Too, inspiration can be in the animated facial expressions of an old blues singer while his aged fingers intuitively strum the strings of a wooden guitar. Enlightenment comes in many forms. Did you have a mentor or teacher that inspired your creative talent? My father was my first and most influential mentor and instructor in fine art. Not only did he teach me how to draw, but he stressed that I pay close attention to my surroundings at all times and to embrace my imagination. My next major influences were Bobby Tompkins and Leon Koury, respectively.

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Where and when do you feel the most creative? I feel most creative when my family life and career are balanced. The place where I am most visited by the muse of inspiration is when I am outside enjoying the sights and sounds of nature. Classical music also seems to gives me a refreshing kick in the pants. What message do you hope to share through your art? Through my art, I convey the message of love for the simple pleasures. With faith and humility, I hope that the viewer my paintings walks away a little bit more introspective, more self awareness, and just a bit more appreciative and respectful of the natural world.

To learn more about Jerrie Glasper visit www.artwanted.com/glasper or contact him at kiddioart11@yahoo.com or call 601-667-7131.

CLIFF SPEAKS “I really love art.” What did you want to be when you grew up? I always wanted to be a mountain man like Grizzly Adams, weird I know. Was there a moment when you knew this was your purpose and passion? I suppose those moments have been many, but lately it has become very clear to me that this is my purpose in life, and that God has directed me to move toward art more and more. What gives you inspiration? I think everything around me is inspirational, life, people, music, and living. Did you have a mentor or teacher that inspired your creative talent? I had a professor at USM, Jim Meade. He was everything I wanted to be as an artist. Also, many artists before me, such as Van Gogh, Picasso, Jackson Pollack, and others have inspired me to be creative and do more.

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Where and when do you feel the most creative? Absolutely in the morning is my time, and in my spare room/studio is the place. What message do you hope to share through your art? I hope to share that art is a wonderful experience to enjoy.

If you could describe your art in one word, what would it be? Enjoyable

What do you enjoy most about creating your art? I love the whole process, building frames, stretching canvas, getting paint all over me and the house. I love making something new that was not there before, to me that’s such an interesting idea.

To learn more about Cliff Speaks visit www.speaksart.com

metrochristianliving.com ❘ JULY 2010 23

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VICKI OVERSTREET

A friend gave me a framed quote for my studio that I love by St. Francis of Assisi. It says: “He who works with his hands is a laborer. He who works with his hands and his head is a craftsman. He who works with his hands, his head, and his heart is an artist.” What did you want to be when you grew up? An artist, of course! Was there a moment when you knew this was your purpose and passion? My husband Jim and I were backpacking in Europe and toured the Musee de l’Orangerie. I will never forget seeing an entire room of floor to ceiling paintings of Monet’s Waterlillies. It was breath -taking. I had always painted but at that moment I fell in love with paint; the brushstrokes, color, light, atmosphere, and the quality of the paint. What gives you inspiration? Early morning light and the last light of day “the violet hour” are the most beautiful. To try and capture the essence of light, color, and shadow in a particular place and moment is a humbling experience. Where and when do you feel the most creative? When I am painting en plein air. The landscape is always a spiritual and emotional challenge. What message do you hope to share through your art? I want to show a passion for the subject matter and a total involvement. I want to paint the feeling of the day, the feeling of the place, rather than that particular place. What do you enjoy most about creating your art? The process in creating a painting, no matter the end result, brings an awareness of the overwhelming gift that God has given us in His creation.

To learn more about Vicki Overstreet visit www.vickioverstreet.com

PEYTON HUTCHINSON “We are all creative human beings because God made us that way. Whether or not you can, “draw a straight line, or stay inside the lines.” All of us are given different talents, whether it’s painting, writing, making music, telling stories, cooking, there are so many different ways to express your artistic abilities. I think we’re all most creative and inspired when we use the gifts God has given us. I hope you can find your passion and go for it!” What did you want to be when you grew up? A cosmetologist! Growing up, my sister and I loved to play hair and makeup. For special occasions, my Mom and sister still ask me to fix their hair or apply their makeup. Was there a moment when you knew this was your purpose and passion? In college, I realized my passion for painting. I honestly didn’t know if I could truly make a career out of it. I knew if I could somehow convince my dad into letting me stay at Ole Miss and secure a fine arts degree in painting, I would try my hardest to make something of it. My dad allowed me to pursue a degree in painting, although he asked me to also earn my teacher’s license just in case this “art thing” didn’t work out. What gives you inspiration? I’ve always admired our Great Maker’s design. I enjoy painting landscapes. When I see something in nature that catches my eye, I can’t wait to get back to my studio to try to create it and capture that moment.

What do you enjoy most about creating your art? I get to do what I love everyday. I feel extremely blessed to be able to work at home and be my own boss. I love that my little boy, Max, is just around the corner from me when I’m at work in my home studio. I feel so lucky, that now I am trying to give back by teaching.

TEENA GRANTHAM What did you want to be when you grew up? I wanted to be an artist, but my parents convinced me that teaching would be a more reliable income. Was there a moment when you knew this was your purpose and passion? No great Aha! Moment, but painting and drawing have always made me happy. Art just puts me in a very good mood!

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What gives you inspiration? Beautiful things in nature that God has given us to enjoy. Did you have a mentor or teacher that inspired your creative talent? I really am grateful to have painted with a lot of wonderful artists including Bob Tompkins and Lucy Mazzaferro. Where and when do you feel the most creative? I love painting with friends, and I also enjoy painting in my studio listening to music. 24 JULY 2010 ❘ Metro Christian Living

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What message do you hope to share through your art? Because I paint landscapes, I hope that sometimes the viewer will look at one of my paintings, recognize the location, and think to himself, “I’ve never noticed all of those colors before!” Hopefully it will encourage others to stop and notice the beauty that surrounds us…to create more of an awareness of the beauty in nature that we pass by every day, even in our own backyards! A tree is not just green, and a sky is not just blue!

What message do you hope to share through your art? Painting is just one of the best ways I can communicate to others how beautiful and colorful our world is. If you could describe your art in one word, what would it be? Happy What do you enjoy most about creating your art? I enjoy pleasing others, and I enjoy the whole process of painting start to finish.

Is there anything else you would like to share? I would like to thank those who have encouraged me in art. That has meant so much to me.

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ANDREW YOUNG What gives you inspiration? It might be easier to list what does not give me inspiration. As a creative person I am always looking for juxtaposition of experiences and perception. I never really know where I will find what inspires me. A lot comes from visual perception, what I encounter in my day to day life. I am an eclectic reader so I am constantly inspired by ideas from an array of concepts. Because I do stained glass I am quite often working with Christian theological themes that relate to the symbolism and imagery in my windows. The research I do by reading scripture and other related texts is a rich source of inspiration. Where and when do you feel the most creative? There is a moment when working on a painting, in the garden, preparing a dinner, designing a stained glass window when time seems to dissolve into the background. At this moment everything is perfect and each stroke is direct and not in question. Some years ago, Tom Crouch, now the design manager at Pearl River Glass Studio, and I would talk about the idea of direct drawing. It could be defined as being in a state when you know that your ideas and abilities are in sync in a profound way. What message do you hope to share through your art? I consider it a great privilege and honor to design and make stained glass windows for the Christian Church. I have deliberately chosen certain paths of study and belief to better prepare myself for creating works of art that can inspire the faithful and unfaithful alike. What I wish for my windows to exhibit is that the process of worship and faith can be creative and personal. The images and symbols I depict in the stained glass are meant to be an entry into a further world of possibility and a deepening of the religious experience. For some years I have been aware that stained glass has the ability to reach individuals through their sense of perception on a conscious and subconscious level. I have reached a point in my life where my God given talents have purpose and meaning. What do you enjoy most about creating your art? In my own work it is all about the process, it is the doing what is important. I have stacks of paintings on paper to show for it! My studio work in stained glass gives me much joy in knowing that our windows will live on for generations to inspire others.

To learn more about Andrew Young and the Pearl River Glass company visit http://www.pearlriverglass.com

CHRISTY HENDERSON “Just like life, I see my artwork ever-changing and deepening…I want there to be a clearly identifiable quality to my work. As I walk though different seasons of life, it is my desire to communicate what I am experiencing thru the means of art. By doing so, my spirit is strengthened, and hopefully others will be touched in a positive way.” What did you want to be when you grew up? A cartoonist. Was there a moment when you knew this was your purpose and passion? It was more of a process than a moment. Through life circumstances, God’s Word, and His Spirit, I began to see that this is the way I had been designed. Art is one way that I can share the love that I have experienced and communicate a hope that endures forever. What gives you inspiration? Relationships that I have… places in my past… words and quotes… songs… color combinations that make me happy. Did you have a mentor or teacher that inspired your creative talent? My daddy, a building contractor, and wonderfully creative designer, restorer of old buildings; he always had an eye for the potential in something that was falling apart and the know-how to bring it about. My mama was always in the garden and flowerbeds or at the sewing machine. She would say she is not artistic, I would have to disagree. I’m constantly pulling from the memories of watching her work, even the color combinations in her yard this year make me want to run to my studio and paint.. Where and when do you feel the most creative? When the sun starts to set well into the night. In a time of worship. After a long break. When I walk into a well designed space.

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What message do you hope to share through your art? Love. Hope.

What do you enjoy most about creating your art? The transformation process…taking raw materials and telling a story with it. There is a deep satisfaction that comes from hearing from folks who are truly encouraged by my artwork.

To learn more about Christy Henderson visit www.chendersonart.com

metrochristianliving.com ❘ JULY 2010 25

➺salt & light by CHRISTI B. STECKEL

ACT OF SERVICE

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It was a call to action. After Trey Stelma, a blind rehabilitation outpatient specialist, visited the home of Neal Woods, he knew something had to be done. The front porch of Woods’ home was rotted through and posed potential danger for Woods who is a blind Vietnam veteran. Stelma called together a troop of volunteers from Life Church and the Veterans Association and got to work. Robby Bush, a retired Jackson District Fire Chief spearheaded the project and through donations from The Mississippi Regional Group of the Blinded Veterans Association, Sam’s Club in Pearl and Home Depot in Brandon, the group had the resources to serve a veteran who once selflessly served our country. The hot day was full of fellowship and hard work, but there was a bit of a delay when Miss Annie, Neal’s wife, served a home-cooked southern meal for the volunteers. Full and thankful, the day moved along. The men measured, cut and hammered, while some of the women on hand made pedestals from the old columns on the house that were taken out during the rebuild. Miss Annie and her 91-year-old mother, Miss Etta watched on with gratitude and Neal stood firmly on his new porch with a new sense of independence. For Maury Lunn, the day represents what the Mississippi Regional Group of the Blinded Veterans Association is all about. “We are working

Presents our Community Outreach Project

The Clergy End of Life Education Program By increasing one’s knowledge about end of life issues, this workshop will enhance the ministry of clergy and lay leaders dealing with grieving individuals and their families. If your church would like to sponsor this free of charge program, please call Shaun Furniss, Bereavement Counselor at 601-939-9288. 2001 Airport Road N, Suite 304 • Flowood, MS 39232 • www.odsyhealth.com

26 JULY 2010 ❘ Metro Christian Living

to bring social connection and interaction of our blind Veterans. The tendency of most blinded people is to isolate themselves from the outside world. More often than not, this results in severe depression and withdrawal. We seek to get them productive and involved by encouraging them to attend Blind Rehabilitation classes and become more independent, thus improving their quality of life. By giving them a social network in which they can connect to other blind vets. The blind Veterans can relate with their own challenges and experiences. This helps to form a healing atmosphere and a type of mentorship process.” With a simple act of service, Neal Woods can now enjoy feeling the summer breeze on his front porch and know that he is not alone. If you would like more information or to get involved, contact the Mississippi Regional Group of the Blinded Veterans Association (601) 362-4471 ext. 5650 or call Maury Lunn (601)906-9104 and email: maury.lunn@va.gov or lunns@comcast.net Y

food for thought by LYDIA BOLEN

Fresh Summer Treats

Summer in Mississippi is a great time to try easy dessert recipes, especially while the fresh fruits are bountiful. All three of the recipes I have picked this month can be served at a casual gathering as well as a dinner party.

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Find your old trusty ice cream maker, or go buy a newer model and explore the many variations of ice cream recipes to delight your family. Children love to help, and making ice cream outside is a fun summer activity. Enjoy!

BLACKBERRY ICE CREAM 4 cups fresh blackberries 1 cup water Sugar

2 1/2 cups whipping cream Blackberries for garnish Mint leaves for garnish

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Line strainer with two layers of dampened cheese cloth. Set over a large bowl. Combine berries and water in saucepan. Slowly bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until soft. Pour into cheesecloth lined strainer. Let stand until juice has drained into bowl, about 30 minutes. Gently, squeeze pulp to extract remaining juice. Measure berry juice into heavy saucepan. Add one cup sugar for each cup of juice. Cook over low heat, until sugar dissolves. Increase heat and boil syrup 2 minutes. Let cool. Mix 2 1/2 cups syrup with cream. Refrigerate several hours. Process blackberry mixture in ice cream maker according to ice cream maker manufacturer’s directions. Freeze in covered container several hours.

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FRESH BERRY TRIFLE 1 packet of vanilla Jell-O pudding 6 cups cubed angel food cake (about 1/2 cake) 1/2 cup strawberry all-fruit spread, warmed 1/4 cup orange juice 4 cups strawberries, halved

2 cups blueberries 1 8 ounce container fat-free frozen whipped topping, thawed 10 whole strawberries Fresh mint leaves (optional)

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Make the vanilla pudding. To assemble, arrange half the cake cubes in a 2 quart trifle dish. Drizzle with half the fruit spread and half the orange juice. Around the side of the dish, arrange about half the halved strawberries with the cut side facing out and the tips pointing up. Sprinkle half the blueberries over the cake. Spoon half the pudding over the blueberries. Repeat. Spread the whipped topping over the top. Cover and chill for at least 4 hours. To serve, place each serving in a bowl or a dessert plate and garnish with a whole strawberry and fresh mint. Be sure to reach the spoon into the layers to get all the different flavors and textures. Serves 10. 1 cup per serving.

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PEACH PRALINE PIE 4 cups ripe fresh peach slices 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 2/3 cup sugar 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice 9 inch unbaked pie shell

1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar 1/4 cup all-purpose flour 3 tablespoons cold butter 1/2 cup chopped pecans

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Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Prepare the praline topping by combining the brown sugar and 1/4 cup flour, and cutting in the butter with a pastry blender, until mixture has a crumbly texture. Stir in the chopped pecans. Sprinkle one-third of the mixture in the bottom of the unbaked pie shell. Combine the sliced peaches, 2 tablespoons flour, 2/3 cup sugar and lemon juice, and pour into the pie shell over praline mixture. Sprinkle remaining mixture evenly over peaches. Bake 45 minutes to 50 minutes or until syrup boils in heavy bubbles. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream.

Remember to continue making memories through the kitchen…“the heartbeat of the home”. For more recipes check out my blog at www.lydiasapron.com or email me at lbbolen@gmail.com for any questions. Have a great summer! Y metrochristianliving.com ❘ JULY 2010 27

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100 Depot Drive • Madison, MS 39110 • 601-605-COOK (2665) • persnicketykitchens.com

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28 JUNE 2010 â?˜ Metro Christian Living

welcome home by CHRISTI B. STECKEL

Easy Updates for your

HOME

lame it on the heat. You’ve been inside escaping the burning sun, but the hours in the house have you pacing and pondering. “This house could really use some updating.” “Why do I still have that old rug?” Don’t start ripping down that wallpaper just yet; start with a few simple changes to make an impressive transformation. And you only need to get out of the car once to find all that you need at Tinnin Imports Rug & Home.

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Baguettes by the basketful got their start in this hand carved French dough bowl. Strength in versatility, this dough bowl can adorn a tabletop and be filled with seasonal fruits, flowers or even Christmas ornaments. $75

Discovered on a sunrise search, this Olive Jar came from a village outside of Savona, Italy on the Italian Riviera. Circa 1890, the natural clay composition provided a cool environment for the olives and olive oil imparting natural flavor. $395

A natural conversation starter, this vintage European painted pine bench may have heard gossip from nannies, discussions among students, or just a restful quiet in someone’s back yard, $995. Plush pillows made from old Oushak rugs compliment soften the lines and the color, $175 each. Persian Kazak pillows, $95, are nestled in a vintage French confection bowl.

Nothing is softer and more soothing than candlelight glowing from this hand fashioned lantern of iron, wood and glass. It is specially designed so it can sit on a table top inside or outside, or hang from a tree limb in your back yard. $50

Hand-woven Tibetan style rug of 100% wool, size 2’ x 3’, this rug uses Asian and Himalayan motifs. $65

Versatile enough to compliment traditional or transitional decorating styles, this hand finished wooden lamp is an immediate heirloom. $250

French market baskets whose original purpose was to carry vegetables to market can be used to organize or display anything from pillows to magazines to firewood. Pillows made from old Turkish kelim rugs $75 each. Basket is also $75. metrochristianliving.com ❘ JULY 2010 29

➺legal advice by WILLIAM B. HOWELL

Do-it Yourself Estate Planning—Are You Sure?

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ome people suggest that having legal work done without using the services of a lawyer is closely akin to having dental work done without using the services of a dentist. The question is: Do you really want to do that? And another question that comes into play is: Do you have the expertise to know exactly what is needed? There is software readily available on CDs ranging in price from in the neighborhood of $10.00 to $100.00 or more. On almost all the packaging it states that the documents are legal in all 50 states. However, there’s a huge difference between being “legal” and being effective. A document can be perfectly legal (that is legally valid), but at the same time not be legally effective because it does not confer the correct rights or contain the proper wording in compliance with the laws of a given state or with the requirements of a bank or other institution with whom you are going to attempt to use the document. The temptation to save money is not a bad motivation. The question arises though, is saving money now going to lead to more expense later? If the prepared documents are ineffective or incomplete, then you may end up with court involvement, which will also include having lawyers involved, and the probably large expense later on. It will be discovered that these documents that have been prepared by the “do-it-yourselfer” don’t actually work. The things that you will do in the area of estate planning in particular have the likelihood of affecting your family’s wellbeing for possibly generations to come. Do you really want to do it other than with correctness? Do you have the experience or expertise to ensure that you

have done what is best for your family? Do you get legal advice from the source that you are attempting to utilize as an aid in this endeavor? There are numerous sites on the Internet that will prepare legal documents for you. However, before you get those documents done and rely upon them for the benefit of your family, you need to carefully read the disclaimers that they put on there and to which you must agree in order to utilize their services. One such site has stated specifically that they are not engaged in giving legal services, that the information on their website is not guaranteed to be accurate or even current, and all of them suggest very strongly that you get the services of an attorney in order to solve any unusual or complex situations that you may have. That begs the question: How do you know whether you have a complex or serious question or not? Again, do you have the expertise to know whether your situation is simple or complex? I have seen situations where people were dividing their estate equally among their three children and thought it was extremely simple and yet, due to the situation of one or more of the children or the nature of one or more of their assets, it was far from simple and required a great deal of careful drafting in order to prevent a disaster that would cost many thousands of dollars. In short, you may do it yourself in many areas, but this is one that you should be very much aware that, when you choose to do your own planning documents without the benefit of legal advice, you are taking a great risk for yourself, for your assets and for your family. Y William B. Howell is a member of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys and practices law in Ridgeland.

You have worked hard for it. WHY THROW IT AWAY? We are all living longer. But we are not all going to be in good health, or aware of our families, or both. Then what happens? Someone has to take over. The question is: Will this be someone you chose? And will it be outside of court or in court? The same with the distribution of your assets after you pass away: In court or out of court? The choice is yours. What about protecting your assets from lawsuits, or a child’s inheritance from a divorce? And will most of your hard-earned savings go to the nursing home? Or have you planned? Here are a few ideas for you to consider:

Living Trust – Allows the person you choose to take over for you in the event of your incapacity, without any court involvement. At your death the person you have chosen makes the distribution of your assets the way you have instructed in your Living Trust, and to do so promptly, inexpensively and privately, without going through probate in the court.

Asset Protection – Lawsuits are filed every day. If you get sued, are your assets protected? They can be, and probably should be. Also, the divorce rate has never been higher than it is today. Will your child’s divorce cause them to lose half of what you leave them after you are gone? Not if you plan now. The level of protection (or not) is up to you. Nursing Home Planning – Don’t qualify for long term care insurance, or can’t fit it in your budget? You don’t have to spend everything that you have in order to become eligible for nursing home benefits. There are legal and ethical ways for you to save well over half of your assets in most cases, even if you are already in the nursing home. Hear Mr. Howell on the radio

Tuesdays 8:35 am WJNT NewsTalk 1180 30 JULY 2010 ❘ Metro Christian Living

THE LAW FIRM OF

WILLIAM B. HOWELL, LTD. 406 Orchard Park • Ridgeland, Mississippi (601) 978-1700 or (800) 839-7857

National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys

homeworks by CATHY HAYNIE

GET THE HAY IN THE BARN

T

here is a story told in the book, Martin Luther Had a Wife, about Sarah Edwards, wife of theologian, Jonathan Edwards that can inspire home managers today. It was this autumn time of year when there is much to be done on busy farms. Jonathan looked up from his studies and said to his wife, “Isn’t it about time for the hay to be cut?” Sarah replied to her husband, “It’s been in the barn for two weeks.” Now, cutting hay may not be on your to do list, but the principle is the same. Are you a forward thinker? Do you get the basic necessities of home management done in such a timely fashion that allows you to feel peaceful about your home management rather than stressed out? The Proverbs 31 woman was so prepared that she “could laugh at the days to come.” I don’t typically find myself laughing at the days ahead of me. I often measure my days in terms of my to-do list, including laundry, messes, and meals. It is not unusual for today’s home manager to be working last minute, barely getting by, and accomplishing only that which must be done right away. This way of doing things is enslaving, while Sarah Edwards’ way is freeing. When we have “the hay in the barn” or meals planned out, laundry caught up, and our home management on track, we are okay when plans change, when a child gets sick, or when an opportunity for something fun comes along. We are more available to minister, to practice hospitality, and to enjoy our

friends and family, and even our home management. Summer is a perfect time to get the hay in the barn for today’s busy home managers. Consider what you might do here and there to be ready for the fall, such as perhaps putting meals in the freezer here and there or cleaning out closets. I also remind myself that “in all labor there is profit” (Proverbs 14:13) and get going on my list, just one small thing at a time. Once the “hay is in the barn”, its time to relax and enjoy the home we work so hard to manage! “Go to the ant you sluggard! Consider her ways and be wise, which having no captain, overseer, or ruler, provides her supplies in the summer, and gathers her food in the harvest. How long will you slumber, O sluggard? When will you rise from your sleep” A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to sleep- so shall your poverty come on you like a prowler, and your need like an armed man.” Proverbs 6:6-11 Y Cathy Haynie and her husband, Jack, have three children and live in Madison. Cathy is the Headmaster of Christ Covenant School in Ridgeland. She occasionally speaks to women’s groups on Honoring God in the Home and Balancing Work and Home. Contact her at chaynie@christcovenantschool.net

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money talks by ROGER DAVIS

Innovation and Economic RECOVERY “Don’t sit so close to the TV”, thirty years ago moms would tell their kids this. Moving a safe distance from the ruining television meant only one thing—the viewer would have to move to change the channel. Hogan’s Heroes, Andy Griffith and Good Times were all broadcast on different stations at the same time making it almost impossible, and certainly inconvenient, for a youngster to enjoy them all in a single afternoon. The first generation remote control allowed the user to change channels without even sitting up. Later, the “muting” and “last channel” functions were introduced, making it possible for the user to hear only what he wanted to hear and to flip between two favorite shows as commercial breaks dictated. Then along came DVR, which makes those two functions less relevant because a user can simply record television content to be viewed on his schedule while fast forwarding through commercials. Through such inventions as the remote and DVR, the U.S. economy has rebounded to new record levels of productivity following each economic downturn is a tribute to the free market system under which we have operated for 234 years and to the entrepreneurial spirit that is such a part of the American man and woman. We should and do find comfort in this fact. It is important to recognize that these economic recoveries and subsequent periods of prosperity were not inevitable. It is concerning that such a large percentage of our population is unproductive. Somewhere between 40% and 48% of US citizens are “net receivers”; that is, their arrangement with the government is one in which they “get” more than they “give”. Not so many years ago physical prowess was the surest way to get a job. But, as a recent Federal Reserve Board White Paper points out, the U.S. economy has changed dramatically over the last 100 years emphasizing the value of brain power over muscle power. What began during the industrial revolution in the early 20th century is in full bloom in today’s Information Age, where, “brain power—analytical reasoning, creativity, inventiveness and even humor—has surpassed motor skill as the economy’s most valuable labor resource”.

The value the market places on a certain skill set is not static. Innovation and competition breed new industries that produce jobs that require workers to possess new and different skills. That’s the way our economy works—progress makes some businesses obsolete. It is uncomfortable and unpleasant for those who are negatively affected by this change, and yet our standard of living continues to improve because of the continued demand by the consumer for new and better products and services. So far, our free enterprise system has always answered the call. A Wikipedia search for “time line of United States inventions” yields 123 pages that describe the advent of innovations including the Electric Dental Drill (1875) and the Crash Test Dummy (1968). There is little doubt that most Americans have benefited from the Smoke Detector (1969), the MRI (1973) or Prozac (1987) in some way. We take these innovations, and tens of thousands more just like them, for granted today. The fact is, someone took the time, the financial risk, and spent the energy necessary to invent everything mankind now enjoys. For each man and woman who brought about useful innovation there are thousands who wasted time, financial resources and energy for NOTHING. These people could have and would have been doing something else. Many of those who experienced success were compensated; most (if not all) of those who failed, didn’t. It is because of these men and women, those who succeeded and those who failed, that our economy has always bounced back. These folks have taken these risks, at least in some part, because they stood to gain personally if they succeeded. Self interest is not selfish; to the contrary, the pursuit of economic self interest in the free market almost always creates value well beyond self. Few men would begrudge the innovator’s profit motive that led to DVR and the Remote. Y Roger Davis is a Partner at Woodridge Capital and can be reached at roger.davis@woodridge-capital.com

Investment Management • 401K Advisory Services 800 Woodlands Parkway, Suite 201 | Ridgeland, MS 39157 601-957-6006 | 866-957-6006 | Fax: 601-957-6986 woodridge-capital.com

D I S C I P L I N E D

•

Roger Davis, Barry Smith, Clark Smith, Danny Williams, CFP ®

S E A S O N E D

•

R E S P O N S I V E metrochristianliving.com ❘ JULY 2010 33

➺rave reviews BOOKS

Susan’s PICK

God’s Word Through Glass Reviewed by Susan E. Richardson

Standard Publishing offers a new type of Bible study with their Through Artists’ Eyes series, represented here by God’s Word Through Glass. Each book focuses on a different medium: sculpture, painting, or stained glass, and looks at how artist interpretation of Biblical themes can enrich understanding of Scripture. The six sessions are broken into four sections each, and begin with a light or humorous look at the session theme. From this icebreaker, participants receive an invitation to consider the theme personally. The student then meets the artist who created the work or works discussed. Both the artist’s life and his work spark questions for consideration. Bible study follows, focusing on the story behind the main work presented, but widening to include other Scriptures that apply to the overall theme. A last section takes all of the pieces and brings them together, both reviewing the material and challenging the reader to apply Scripture personally. Resources at the end of each session suggest books or other media for additional study. Full color reproductions of each work appear in the front of the study guide. Each participant can refer to the work as needed while answering questions. The Through Artists’ Eyes series would be a good choice for artloving seekers or as a new way of looking at Bible stories for believers who are visual learners. Part art appreciation and part Bible 101, God’s Word Through Glass combines the elements well. Consider the series for either individual or group study. Y Susan E. Richardson is a writer, critique reader, and former Christian retailer with a passion for meeting people’s needs through the written word. You can reach her through her website www.nextlevelcritiques.com.

MUSIC

“Counting Stars” Reviewed by John Graham Music has the unique ability to be profound on two fronts: the music itself, and the lyrics which underpin each song. Too often in modern music the two seem at odds with each other, engaged in a battle over profundity. In Andrew Peterson’s album “Counting Stars,” we play witness to the rare occurrence of both aspects finding a harmony among each other, a unified front which pleases the ears as much as the intellect. Some may call the album “sleepy,” yet among the soft tones and subdued drum beats, there is a pulse of vitality and deep understanding which emanates from the heart of Christianity. Often venturing into the realms of bluegrass, country, and adult contemporary genres, the best word to describe the theme of Peterson’s musical testimony is pastoral. There is an emphasis placed on the everyday occurrences in life, the love and challenges of matrimony in “Dancing in the Minefields,” to the planting of a Maple as an analogy for personal legacy in “Planting Trees.” It seems as if the album is a celebration of the triumphs and struggles that play themselves out everyday in the homes and yards of America. Peterson doesn’t adventure naively into these realms as songs such as “You Came So Close,” and “In the Night” deal with the despair and loss which are as much a part of the believer’s experience as anything else. There is much meaning to be found within the lines of Peterson’s musings, yet they are so closely woven within the melodies and with such dynamic literacy that the level of depth within is stunningly subtle. Andrew Peterson has created an almost story-book of an album which is as vividly detailed as any novel, yet his music carries it above the natural boundaries to a place quite divine. Y

FILMS

Toy Story 3 Reviewed by Julie Whitehead In Toy Story 3, returning stars Tom Hanks (Woody) and Tim Allen (Buzz) are joined by equally famous newcomers Ned Beatty (Lotso) and Micheal Keaton (Ken) in another installment of the adventures of Andy’s toy friends—this time as Andy is preparing to leave for college. By mistake, the whole crew of the original toy cast winds up at the Sunshine Day Care, where the toys are ruled by Lotso Hugs Bear, a teddy bear lost by his original owner years ago. At first the toys are excited to be played with again; however, their first day in the toddler room doesn’t quite fit their expectations, and they plan a 34 JULY 2010 ❘ Metro Christian Living

dramatic escape to go back to Andy’s house. As always, the animation is spectacular and the gags fall with cleverness, including Buzz Lightyear’s reset to “Spanish Buzz” and the romance of Ken and Barbie. My children, from the fourteen-year-old on down, thoroughly enjoyed this movie as much as I did. For a story about love between children and their toys, this third Toy Story is a hard one to beat. Y Julie Whitehead of Brandon has been a mother since 1996 and a freelance writer since 2000. She was given a Mississippi Press Association award for her work in 2006.

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➺photo collage

SUMMER FUN AT VBS!

Marvin United Methodist Church

PINELAKE CHURCH

Three year old Elijah Slay from Florence attended VBS at Marvin United Methodist Church in Florence. This was his first VBS and he had so much fun! The theme was “Galatic Blast: A Cosmic Adventure Praising God!”

Close to 1,600 kids attended the Pinelake Church Kid’s Week at the Reservoir and Clinton campuses. Through the theme “Power Up!” kids, were challenged to find true power in God as they imagined themselves inside a video game for the week. They learned that they can’t rely on their own strength, they must be connected to the true Power Source to make it to the next level.

Imagine Behavioral Health Structured Specialty Programs (IOP) for Adolescents and Young Adults We work with young people and their families experiencing severe distress as a result of substance abuse, depression, anxiety, anger and other destructive behaviors. All of our services are performed or supervised by board certified psychiatrists and master’s level clinicians. We accept private insurance and provide scholarships to those in need.

(601) 982-5376 • www.imagineiop.com 36 JULY 2010 ❘ Metro Christian Living

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF JACKSON First Baptist Church turned into Saddle Ridge Ranch, centered around the theme “Rounding up Questions and Driving home Answers”. Children learned God has all of the answers to all of their questions. The theme verse was James 1:5, “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.” Over 1,000 preschool, international students, and elementary students participated and another 165 joined together at the Madison Campus.

events calendar July 3 Enjoy the best of blues music while viewing exotic animals at the Jackson Zoo’s annual “Zoo Blues”, a one day blues music festival with all proceeds going to make improvements for the zoo. Tickets are $22 in advance or $35 at the door. For more information, call (601) 352-2580.

Jackson Zoo. Celebrating 16 years of fun local celebrities will be on hand to scoop out over a dozen flavors of ice cream and give you an opportunity to vote on your favorite ice cream flavor and celebrity.

CLINTON July 10 and 24 Clinton’s very own Olde Towne Markets will be held on two Saturdays in July from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. featuring the best of locally owned produce, homemade products and local musicians. July 10th will feature Ralph Miller and Mississippi Magnolia Cloggers and July 24th will host The Varners and Nicholas Pennock. Great fun for the entire family!

RIDGELAND

July 6-12 If going to the beach and enjoying the sand is not in the plans for this summer then Team Sandtastic will bring the sand to you! Two full tractor loads of sand (50 tons to be exact) will be brought to Northpark Mall’s Center Court on July 6 and sculpted through July 12th. Enjoy great shopping while watching artist create a sand sculpture from the top, down.

JULY

JACKSON

July 2 Come help celebrate the 4th of July at the annual Celebrate America Balloon Glow. Festivities begin at 6:00 p.m. with the inflating of the balloons and end with the largest fireworks display in the Metro-Jackson area. This free event takes place at Northpark Mall and will include entertainment by country singers Tracy Lawrence and Candy Coburn.

weekend for children and adults of all ages at the Canton Multi-Purpose complex. This free four-day event will include three competitive balloon races, a special shape fiesta (featuring Humpty Dumpty and his friends), two spectacular balloon glows, two incredible firework displays, children’s activities, great food and great entertainment. This festival is a fundraiser for The Good Samaritan Center. Please visit http://www.ballooncanton.com for schedule of events or call (601) 355-6276. Y

BRANDON July 9 Art Remix, a three musical act, will be downtown at the beautiful Mississippi Museum of Art. Performers showcased will be Sherman Lee Dillon and the Dillionaires, John Paul Keith & The One Four Fives, and Those Darlins. The entertainment begins at 5:00 p.m. and includes hands-on art and scavenger hunts throughout the galleries. For more information visit msmuseumart.org.

July 11–14 Kid Extreme Days begins at First Baptist Church Brandon July 11-14 from 6:00 p.m. – 8:45 p.m. This fun filled sports and arts camp includes game time and Bible study and is a great way for your child to make new friends and hear God’s word proclaimed. To secure your spot, please register by July 9th. For more information call (601) 825-6766.

CANTON July 17 What a better way to spend a hot July day than at the Ice Cream Safari at the

July 1-4 Mississippi Championship Hot Air Balloon Fest will lead a fun filled metrochristianliving.com ❘ JULY 2010 37

➺quips & quotes

ADVERTISING INDEX

The birthday of the nation is indissolubly linked with the birthday of the Savior. It forms a leading event in the progress of the Gospel dispensation. The Declaration of Independence...laid the cornerstone of human government upon the first precepts of Christianity. – John Quincy Adams

“America is the only country ever founded on a creed” – G.K. Chersterton

–Patrick Henry

I run in the path of your commands, for you have set my heart free.

– Psalm 119:32

“Many who plan to seek God at the eleventh hour die at 10:30.”

“Some people will believe anything if it’s whispered to them.”

“The Bible is a book worth more than all the other books that were ever printed.”

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To love God is the greatest of virtues; to be loved by God is the greatest of blessings – Author unknown

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Things may come to those who wait, but only the things left by those who hustle.

– Abraham Lincoln

“Resistance to tyranny becomes the Christian and social duty of each individual. ... Continue steadfast and, with a proper sense of your dependence on God, nobly defend those rights which heaven gave, and no man ought to take from us.” – John Hancock 1st Signer of the Declaration of Independence

“He who testifies to these things says,“Yes, I am coming soon.” Amen. Come, Lord Jesus. – Revelation 22:20

For no matter how many promises God has made, they are “Yes” in Christ. And so through him the “Amen” is spoken by us to the glory of God. Now it is God who makes both us and you stand firm in Christ. He anointed us, set his seal of ownership on us, and put his Spirit in our hearts as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come.

The Sovereign Lord is my strength; he makes my feet like the feet of a deer, he enables me to go on the heights.

– 2 Corinthians 1:20-22

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