Issuu

January | February 2026

Wedding CELEBRATIONS

Special Occasions

EVENTS & MORE

TAYLOR COOLEY PHOTOGRAPHY

Natchez has everything you need to plan your tailormade wedding. From small intimate ceremonies in our spellbinding parks and gardens to large outdoor or indoor events in historic properties, Natchez provides everything needed to make your wedding day memories last a lifetime. TAYLOR COOLEY PHOTOGRAPHY

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a look INSIDE favorites 10 Along and Beyond

Celebrating Eighty Years of Linda Case: Horsewoman, Mentor, and Beloved Friend

14 Along and Beyond

Christ Church Organ Recital

18 Along and Beyond

Healthy, Fresh, and Easy Eats

22 Along and Beyond

Mississippi Songwriters Festival

26 Legal Notes

Holding Justice Accountable

28 Something Scrumptious

Garden to Table with Herbs

Wedding Features 44 Devening & Martin Wedding 46 Gamberi & Luallen Wedding 48 Kennedy & Calhoun Wedding 50 Kiper & Weatherly Wedding 52 Scroggins & Wells Wedding

January | February 2026

Wedding CELEBRATIONS

cover

Carley Anne Kiper Weatherly with her bridesmaids. See story on pages 50-51. JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 | BLUFFS & BAYOUS | 5

a look INSIDE social scenes 12 Brookhaven, MS

1960s BHS Football Team Reunion

16 Brookhaven, MS

Brookhaven's Climbers Club Holiday Brunch

20 Brookhaven, MS

Post-Nuptial Dinner Celebration

24 Ferriday, LA

Raise the Woof

34 McComb, MS

Judith Robinson Chapter NSDAR Christmas Luncheon

36 Natchez, MS

Pumpkin Patch in Downtown Natchez

38 Natchez, MS

Natchez Garden Club Celebrates the Holiday Season with Wreath-making Workshop Meeting

40 Natchez, MS

25 McComb, MS

Green and Gold Greatness: A Celebration of Unity, Service, and School Pride

32 McComb, MS

The Flower Lovers Club

Bridge Dedications Memorialize Long-serving Adams County Supervisors

42 Vidalia, LA

Miss Merry Christmas Reunion

february is national pet dental health month Do not forget to book a dental exam for your pet.

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join us for

Christ Church Organ Recital o e t ic e r F bl Pu e th

January 11, 2026 at Christ Church Highway 553, Church Hill, Mississippi Concert at 2:00 P.M. Service at 3:00 P.M.

featuring the musical talents of

DR. GABRIEL C. STATOM Organist at Lindenwood Christian Church in Memphis, Tennessee

DR. PATRICK DOHERTY Organist at Trinity Episopal Church in Natchez, and Christ Church in Church Hill, Mississippi

JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 | BLUFFS & BAYOUS | 7

M AG A ZI N E

our team 225 John R. Junkin Drive Natchez, MS 39120 601.442.6847 bluffsmag@gmail.com bbupandcoming@gmail.com bluffsbayous.com

CHERYL FOGGO RINEHART Publisher/Editor/Sales

JEAN NOSSER BIGLANE Copy Editor

BONNIE DICKERSON Design Director

MELANIE SOJOURNER Sales

SAM GWIN Contributor

CECILIA HOPKINS STEVENS Contributor

BILL PERKINS Photographer

LISA WHITTINGTON Photographer

Bluffs & Bayous is published monthly to promote the greater Southern area of Louisiana and Mississippi in an informative and positive manner. We welcome contributions of articles and photos; however, they will be subject to editing and availability of space and subject matter. Photographs, comments, questions, subscription requests and ad placement inquiries are invited! Return envelopes and postage must accompany all materials submitted if a return is requested. No portion of this publication may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. The opinions expressed in Bluffs & Bayous are those of the authors or columnists and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products or services herein. We reserve the right to refuse any advertisement. Bluffs & Bayous strives to ensure the accuracy of our magazine’s contents. However, should inaccuracies or omissions occur, we do not assume responsibility.

from the PUBLISHER It’s 26 for ’26! I cannot believe we are into 2026 and into our 26th year of publication. With each new year, we celebrate new beginnings with stories of newlyweds, engagements, parties marking these new beginnings, and parties to celebrate the continuing Christmas Season and New Year. Our Special Occasions, Weddings, and Events issue covers new beginnings in a duo’s healthy-eats business, a new addition for a historic church, the commemoration of a new decade for a charmer who turned 80 years old, a new site for the Mississippi Songwriters Festival, and new recipes that forage old, traditional herbs. When I begin to orchestrate the initial issue of a new year, I always reflect on the year I am leaving behind and think, how could the year have passed so quickly? Likely, we all feel this way, a little melancholy mixed with anticipation for the newness of a new year. What adventures will I tackle, what new events will I embrace, what challenges will I take on in our 26th year of 2026? One thing

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is certain: I know we continue our mission to bring interesting reads about people, places, and events, and to salute our faithful and trusting advertisers who provide our readers with timely and stimulating details of their products and services. We encourage all of you to attend the organ recital at Christ Church in January and, at the end of the month, enjoy the weekend of activities with the Songwriters Festival. Mardi Gras will fill January and February with Fat Tuesday’s falling on February 17 and marking the final day of the Carnival Season. Therein will be merry-making with the Krewe of Phoenix’s Call Out Ball January 17, and their parade rolls on February 13 with the Royal Grand Ball following on February 14. Go embrace these and the multiple events that celebrate New Year 2026 in our life along and beyond the Mississippi.

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Celebrating Eighty Years of Linda Case: Horsewoman, Mentor, and Beloved Friend

1. Linda Case, Ken Powell, Joy Powell Gregory, Chad Gregory, Sherry Powell, John Hunter Gregory, and William Gregory 2. Celie, Justin, and Ellie Estess with Linda Case 3. Linda Case 4. Front: Linda Case, Catherine Carter Sledge, and Ellanie Nations / Back: Sylvia Hall, Sarah Beth Mills Walker, Joy Powell Gregory, Ashley Hancock Hammack, and Madeleine Hall Brown 5. Steve and Julie Mills 6. Carl and Susan Aycock with Linda Case 7. Linlee, Natalie, and Brett Davis with Linda Case

On October 5, 2025, more than one hundred friends, former students, and admirers traveled from as far as Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Washington D. C., and across Mississippi to gather in Brookhaven, Mississippi, at the home of Linda Case for a celebration as remarkable as the woman herself. The occasion was her 80th birthday, but the real reason for the crowd was something far bigger: gratitude. For decades, Linda has shaped lives in classrooms, in barns, and in the quiet, steady way she has always moved through the world. A Lincoln County native, Linda began her professional life as a high school English teacher, nurturing young minds in the classroom before dedicating herself full time to the world that had always called to her: quarter horses, young riders, and the lessons found in the space between a person and a good horse. As a trainer and riding instructor, she spent many years guiding students through the challenges and joys of horsemanship, teaching them far more than how to sit a saddle. Her influence is evident in the testimonies shared at her birthday gathering. Again and again, guests emphasized not just the skills she taught, but the character she instilled. “My life would look entirely different if I hadn’t had Linda Case as a mentor,” one former student said. “I was the best self I’ve ever been in my life when I was spending time with ‘Miss’ Linda,” another added. Parents, too, recognized Linda’s impact. One father leaned down to kiss her cheek and said simply, “I love you, ‘Miss’ Linda. Thank you for helping raise my daughter to be a fine woman.” At Linda’s barn, young people didn’t just learn horsemanship. They learned responsibility—how to care for a living creature who depended on them. They learned resilience and accountability, absorbing Linda’s unwavering expectations of fair play, good sportsmanship, and humility. Win or lose, she taught them to carry themselves with integrity and grace. Through every hug, every shared memory, and every heartfelt word, the message was unmistakable: Linda Case’s influence stretches far beyond her 80 years. It is alive in the adults her students became and in the values they now pass on to others.

ARTICLE | Kay Bark 10 | BLUFFS & BAYOUS | JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026

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THE SCENE BROOKHAVEN, MS

1960s BHS Football Team Reunion James Case rounded up a group of the Brookhaven High School football team players from the 1960s to gather at Poppa's in Brookhaven, Mississippi, for lunch on September 23, 2025. It was quite a reunion. Some had not been in touch for many years, one since high school. Photographs, school year books, and memorabilia were displayed on a table to peruse and bring back memories of those good times. So many stories were shared. Photography by Bill Perkins

1— Mike Grim and Virgil Stewart 2— Greg Adams and Earl "Bud" Weed 3— Earl "Bud" Weed 4— Cleo King and Anton Reel 5— Bill Lofton and Geoff Hambach 6— Burt and Billy "Cobb" Walker 7— Mike Case and James Case 8— Billy "Cobb" Walker, James Case, and Earl "Bud" Weed 9— Virgil Stewart 10— Front—Bill Lofton, Geoff Hambach, Wayne Smith, Steve Morton, Tony Rogers, Mike Grim, and Tommy Franklin / Back—Mike Case, James Case, Cleo King, Anton Reel, Bill Burt, Billy "Cobb" Walker, Earl "Bud" Weed, Greg Adams, and Virgil Stewart

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Christ Church Organ Recital

Christ Church in Church Hill, Mississippi, has a rich history deeply engrained with the state's religious and cultural heritage. Founded in 1820, Christ Church is the oldest Episcopal congregation in Mississippi, its establishment reflecting the spread of Anglicanism in the South during the early nineteenth century. The church's architecture is notable, featuring a classic Gothic Revival style popular during the period of its construction in 1858. This style is characterized by pointed arches and steep gables, which contribute both to the church's aesthetic appeal and to its historical significance. The property was added to the United States National Register of Historic Places in 1977. Throughout its history, Christ Church has served as a center for worship, community gatherings, and social events. Its congregation has witnessed and participated in many pivotal moments in Mississippi's history including the Civil War. Like many historic churches, Christ Church has faced challenges over the years, specifically periods of decline in membership and the need for restoration and maintenance. However, its enduring presence in Church Hill speaks to its resilience and importance to the local community. After a year-long restoration in 2024, Christ Church continues to be a place of worship and fellowship,

ARTICLE | Cheryl Rinehart 14 | BLUFFS & BAYOUS | JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026

preserving its heritage while embracing the changing needs of its congregation and the broader community. Members of its devoted and vibrant congregation continue to work on the church and the grounds. Recently, they acquired a 2007 digital Allen Organ, made in Allentown, Pennsylvania, an organ that was in the First Baptist Church in Martin, Tennessee, but had not been used since 2017. Orchestrating this acquisition was Dr. Gabriel Statom, the representative for Steinway pianos and Allen organs throughout the South, as he conveyed information about the organ to members of the church. They then purchased it, drove up to Martin, Tennessee, and brought it back to Christ Church. Dr. Statom sent his technician to install the organ with all of its massive speakers. To celebrate this new addition, Christ Church will host an Organ Recital on Sunday, January 11, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. with organists Dr. Patrick Doherty and Dr. Gabriel C. Staton. The event is open to the public and is free of charge. Dr. Patrick Doherty, OD, is a 1985 graduate of Millsaps College with a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and a Bachelor of Music in Organ Performance. In 1989, he graduated from Southern College of Optometry as a Doctor of Optometry, the eighth optometrist in his family. Since 1990, he has practiced optometry with his brother, Dr. Shawn Doherty, in Natchez, Mississippi. He served as the

PHOTOS | Lisa Whittington

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organist for the Basilica of St. Mary in Natchez for twentythree years and is currently the organist at Trinity Episcopal Church in Natchez and Christ Church in Church Hill. Dr. Gabriel C. Statom was educated in music and worship at the University of Mississippi, Princeton university, Florida State University, Westminster Choir College, Northern Seminary, and The Robert E. Webber Institute for Worship Studies. He presently is the organist at Lindenwood Christian Church in Memphis, Tennessee, as well as the aforementioned institutional representative throughout the South for Steinway Pianos and Allen organs. Dr. Statom served as Director of Music at Second Presbyterian Church in Memphis, Tennessee, was artistic director of the Memphis Masterworks Chorale, and directs the Laudis Domini Vocal Ensemble. He has conducted in the United States, Europe, and Argentina, including performances at Oregon Bach Festival, Spoleto Festival USA, and Carnegie Hall. The Church Hill community got its name from Christ Church and its location on a terraced hill at the intersection of Church Hill Road and Highway 553. On January 11 at 2:00 in the afternoon, join visitors from surrounding communities and members of the Christ Church congregation in enjoying the musical recital commemorating their notable Allen organ; and thereafter, stay for the 3:00 service to further appreciate this inspiring structure so significant in the religious history of Mississippi.

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Christ Church Organ Recital January 11 at Christ Church in Church Hill

JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 | BLUFFS & BAYOUS | 15

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THE SCENE BROOKHAVEN, MS

Brookhaven’s Climbers Club Holiday Brunch The Climbers Club gathered in Brookhaven, Mississippi, at the home of Mrs. Josh Smith on Thursday, December 11, 2025, for their Christmas Brunch. Holly Gardner, Kristy Sessums, Velma Estes (President), Suzie Fitzsimmons, Sloan Smith, Rebecca Burns, and Cathy Behan were the hostesses. Photography by Bill Perkins

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1— Amanda Warren, Carla Snider, Sidney Wilson, and Sara Foster 2— Shannon Clark, Rebecca Burns, Melinda Said, and Stephanie Smith 3— Betty Ann Perkins and Ann Ramsay 4— Veronica Richardson, Holly Gardner, Sloan Smith, and Becky Brady 5— Helen Lynch, Patti Moak, and Martha Ann Peeples 6— Pam Cummins and Barbara Davis 7— Harriet Procter, Susan Aycock, and Pam Reed 8— Shannon Clark, Kristy Sessums, and Amy Valentine 9— Debra Strong and Danita Hobbs 10— Patti Perkins, Holly Slay, and Sally Lampton 11— Hostesses Holly Garner, Kristy Sessums, Velma Estes, Suzie Fitzsimmons, Sloan Smith, Rebecca Burns, and Cathy Behan 12— Amy Cooley and Holly Gardner 13— Debra Strong

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Healthy, Fresh, and Easy Eats! “At the Little Green Fork, we believe healthy eating should be simple, accessible, and stress-free,” say owners and MealPrep Specialists Patrick Biglane and Brooke Cangemi. For Biglane and Cangemi, this new enterprise’s founders, life is all about family, staying active, and cooking (and enjoying!) delicious food. As two single parents with three children each, they know firsthand how challenging it can be to put healthy meals on the table while juggling careers, after-school activities, and everything else life sends their way. That’s where their friendship (and love of cooking) came in, both realizing they could take their passion for food and turn it into something bigger for the community. Biglane had been engaged in pre-made, pre-ordered healthy-styled meals working out of his Natchez, Mississippi, home; and Brooke was in Vidalia, Louisiana, preparing a selection of home-styled meals for working families. The merge has moved them to Main Street in downtown Natchez where they are prepping out of a commercial kitchen for preordered customer pickup along with pop-in pickup for those who may have missed each week’s order deadline.

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In addition to their joint venture in the Little Green Fork and their lives as single parents, both Biglane and Cangemi work full-time jobs in other areas. Cangemi also has begun on-line graduate studies. The two see the Little Green Fork as a vacation from their other roles and responsibilities as Biglane affirmed in claiming about his former food-prep venture: “The beginning of Pat’s Preps was like my therapy.” In this prelude to the Little Green Fork, customers followed him on his Facebook Page and could order through FB and pick up from the outside freezer at his home. Once the two combined their efforts, they were prepping in Biglane’s kitchen and house, “running up and down the stairs, setting up more tables for prep space, even using the ping-pong table for needed room,” recalls Cangemi. Finding a central, commercial space has allowed them to prepare and serve with more ease. Of course, for each owner, the joint business remains a family affair where their respective children support their efforts in various, optional ways. The Little Green Fork is a local meal-prep service offering fresh, locally sourced options for busy parents, fitness

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enthusiasts, and all those in the surrounding area looking for healthy meals. “Our mission goes beyond just providing food. We’re here to make life easier, to take stress off the plates of families like ours, and to help create a ripple effect of wellness throughout the Miss-Lou” states Cangemi. Something new implemented this past December was delivery. Fletcher Mims, who manages the front desk for pickup, now delivers as well. The Little Green Fork is in the business of serving others, making life a little easier, and giving Miss-Lou neighbors the chance to live healthier, happier, and more connected lives—one meal at a time. This local go-to for healthy, pre-made meal options is available whether your goal is to lose weight, maintain muscle, or feed your family fresh, nutritious meals—crafted locally, for locals.

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Shop weekly from their online menu at thelittlegreenfork.com. Then pick up at 312 Main Street in Natchez or enjoy personal delivery. Simple…accessible…stress free… delectable…and healthy!

JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 | BLUFFS & BAYOUS | 19

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THE SCENE BROOKHAVEN, MS GILLON CHRISTIAN MOSBY PLLC EXPERIENCED FOUNDATION ‒ A VISION FOR THE FUTURE

Post-Nuptial Dinner Celebration James and Miaya Minter tied the knot at Christ Episcopal Church in Covington, Louisiana, on July 19, 2025. A dinner party to celebrate this union was hosted at the home of Mike and Melinda Said on September 27, 2025, in Brookhaven, Mississippi. Photography by Bill Perkins

Where Experience Counts

1— James and Miaya Minter 2— Melnee Williams and Anna Giust 3— Anna Giust, Dr. Mark Giust, Don Underwood, and Melnee Williams 4— Sandy Johnson, Gloria Channel, Reverend Jennifer Holder, and Ann Ramsey 5— Frances Brady and Gloria Channel 6— Martha Ann Peeples 7— Don and Theresia Perkins 8— Ryan Kowalski and Jesse Blauw 9— Mark and Ava Jane Newell with Catherine and Les Bumgarner 10— James and Miaya Minter with Mike and Melinda Said

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JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 | BLUFFS & BAYOUS | 21

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beyond Mississippi Songwriters Festival Announces 2026 Capital-River Region Annual Event in Natchez this January 30-31

The Mississippi Songwriters Alliance (MSA) is proudly launching its newest annual regional event, the "Mississippi Songwriters Festival: The Capital-River Region," with Natchez as its annual host! The two-day celebration, January 30–31, 2026, brings Nashville and Mississippi songwriting talent together in one of the most historic and picturesque locations in the South. "Come see how we write and roll!" proclaims Natchez native, career Nashville songwriter, and local event coordinator Tommy Polk. "I could not be more excited to share the talents of my Nashville songwriting connections with our local writers, musicians, and fans at our first annual Capital-River Region Mississippi Songwriters Festival event here in Natchez." Polk's songs "Look What Followed Me Home" and "I Don't Want You to Go," performed by David Ball and Carolyn Dawn Johnson, respectively, became Top Ten Billboard hits on the country charts. Founded in 2010 in Ocean Springs and Gautier, Mississippi, the Mississippi Songwriters Festival has expanded its flagship coastal event into a network of permanent regional festivals: Delta

Region – Cleveland, Pines Region – Meridian, Hills Region – Oxford, and Capital-River Region – now proudly hosted by Natchez. Natchez Mayor Dan M. Gibson attended the Ocean Springs festival last year—an experience he describes as transformative. "I knew of the great work of the Mississippi Songwriters Festival but had not attended an event until last year, when our home-grown songwriting hero Glen Ballard—known for hits like Michael Jackson's ‘Man in the Mirror’ and scores for productions including The Polar Express—was inducted into the Hall of Fame. It was such a fantastic event that it deserved place like Natchez to become the permanent host city for the Capital-River Region festival. There could not be a better backdrop for a songwriter's festival than our centuries-old and storied city." The Mississippi Songwriters Alliance keeps music alive year-round throughout the state through its four regional festivals and extensive outreach programs. MSA connects songwriters, fans, and communities to honor Mississippi's musical legacy while supporting the artists shaping its future.

VERLON THOMPSON

JIM “MOOSE” BROWN

CAROLYN DAWN JOHNSON

ROGER COOK

ODIE BLACKMON

"THE FIRST STEP" —Tracy Byrd No. 1 U.S. Country

"IT'S FIVE O'CLOCK SOMEWHERE" —Co-writer —Hits recorded by Martina McBride, Willie Nelson, and Steve Wariner

"SINGLE WHITE FEMALE" —Co-writer —Recorded by Chely Wrighty

"LONG COOL WOMAN IN A BLACK DRESS" —The Hollies

"I MAY HATE MYSELF IN THE MORNING" —Lee Ann Womacks

No. 1 U.S. Billboard Hot Country chart

"I'D LIKE TO TEACH THE WORLD TO SING" —Coca-Cola 1971

"SHE'LL LEAVE YOU WITH A SMILE" —George Strait

"CROSS MY BROKEN HEART" — Suzy Bogguss

22 | BLUFFS & BAYOUS | JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026

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2026 FESTIVAL SCHEDULE FRIDAY, JANUARY 30 "LOCAL RESTAURANTS & DIVES LIVE" from 6 P.M. – 9 P.M. Live music throughout 11 various locations in Downtown Natchez and Under-the-Hill. Regional writers will showcase original work and stories behind their songs. Cover charges may apply at some venues.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 31 Natchez Civic Center, free and open to the public "SONGWRITING WORKSHOPS & PRESENTATIONS" 9 A.M. – 3 P.M. Topics and presenters include: Eric Schmidtt — Professor of Songwriting at LSU Odie Blackmon — Professor of Songwriting MTSU Jim "Moose" Brown — Writer of songs for Kevin Costner's new movie Wendy Buckner — Nashville music publisher and songwriter speaks on Music Row's take on AI Writers Contest — Twenty songs will be chosen for review by Buckner, and the top two will be considered for publication. Shane Paul — Singer/Songwriter speaks on using Suno AI: The Revolutionary Music Generation Platform. "LOCAL/REGIONAL SONGWRITER HIGHLIGHTS" 6 P.M. – 7:15 P.M. Brint Anderson, Hanna Belle, Shane Paul, Eric Schmidtt, and Mary Alice Vanderwaters "NASHVILLE SONGWRITER SHOWCASE" 7:30 P.M. – 9 P.M. Roger Cook — British-born but Nashville-based co-writer of hits such as "Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress" (The Hollies) and "I'd Like to Teach the World to Sing," which was later used in a popular Coca-Cola campaign in 1971 / His later country music successes include such hits as "Talking in Your Sleep" (Crystal Gayle), "I Believe in You" (Don Williams), and "I Just Want to Dance with You" (George Straight).

M o re i n fo : w w w.s o n g w r i te r s .o n e n atch e z .co m

January 30 -31 • Book your stay early!

Presenting Sponsor:

Odie Blackmon — Grammy-nominated / His compositions include "I May Hate Myself in the Morning" (Lee Ann Womack), "She'll Leave You with a Smile" (George Strait), and "Nothing on but the Radio" (Gary Allan). Jim "Moose" Brown — Co-writer of "It's Five O'clock Somewhere," among many other hits recorded by Martina McBride, Willie Nelson, and Steve Wariner / A Grammy-winning songwriter, musician, and producer Carolyn Dawn Johnson — Canadian country singer-songwriter / Co-writer of the track "Single White Female" (recorded by Chely Wright) that reached No. 1 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Country chart Verlon Thompson — His songs have been recorded by Tracy Byrd ("The First Step," No. 1 U.S. Country) and Suzy Bogguss ("Cross My Broken Heart"), among many others.

JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 | BLUFFS & BAYOUS | 23

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THE SCENE FERRIDAY, LA

Raise the Woof A fundraiser for Concordia Paws was held November 8, 2025, in Ferriday, Louisiana, to support repairing the Concordia Shelter’s roof at Panola Country Club in Ferriday. There was plenty of food, live music, a game-watch for the LSU-versus-Alabama football game, and jambalaya plates also available for take-outs. A lemonade stand and children’s activity table were part of this event as well.

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SCENE McCOMB, MS

Green and Gold Greatness: A Celebration of Unity, Service, and School Pride

The Green and Gold Bowl once again brought together the McComb Tigers and the South Pike Eagles for a week filled with unity, service, and spirited competition. More than a football game, the event represented a community movement that continues to strengthen the bonds between the two schools and their supporters. The 2025 Green and Gold Bowl took place on Friday, October 31, 2025, before a crowd that reflected the best of Pike County pride. Fans filled the stands with green-and-gold spirit, celebrating not only the athletic rivalry but also the shared values of teamwork and community support that define both school districts. Among the highlights of the week was the Heels and Helmets Ladies Football Clinic held on Tuesday, October 28, 2025. The event blended education and enjoyment, offering participants an engaging look into the rules and strategies of football. The clinic was led by Mr. McNair Smith, Assigning Secretary for Southwest, whose lively and informative presentation made the evening both fun and meaningful.

This event also reflected the generous spirit that the Green and Gold Bowl inspires. Attendees contributed canned goods to the local Salvation Army, demonstrating a commitment to service. During the evening, Director Brenda Kates shared her vision for expanding outreach efforts to assist families facing economic challenges. Her remarks reminded everyone that community strength grows through compassion and shared purpose. By the time the teams took the field on October 31, the atmosphere was charged with excitement and respect. The Eagles soared, the Tigers roared, and Pike County celebrated another successful year of Green and Gold Greatness. Photography by Scott Video and Photography, LLC 1— Event participants 2— Door-prize winners—Grace Moses, Reonya Moore, and Kosheya Felder 3— Table display

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JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 | BLUFFS & BAYOUS | 25

legal notes Holding Justice Accountable Recently, a great deal of publicity has surfaced concerning judges’ releasing hardened criminals with low or no bond, only to have the released criminals go back into society and commit a second or third crime more heinous than the first. During the two or three days, while I was writing this article, there were two reported national articles discussing two separate cases where both alleged defendants had been released after dozens of vicious and heinous crimes only to strike again. The first and older case was that of Decarlos Brown who stabbed Iryna Zarutska to death on a train in front of witnesses in North Carolina. Brown had a long history of violent assaults and robberies including three felony convictions and fourteen prior cases in criminal court, yet he was out again. More recently, was the December 2025 case in Chicago where Sean Popps had been arrested twelve times since January 2025, only to be released after each arrest, and brutally attacked a doctor on an elevator, severely injuring the doctor. How does this happen in America? The problem is that under almost all of the current laws in this country, judges (and prosecutors) are immune from liability for their decisions, especially in ruling on criminal matters involving the posting of bail. Society is starting to ask how can you either force judges to change their positions on such leniency or hold them responsible. The rationale behind not holding judges responsible is that in order to have truly impartial judges you must give them such leeway so that they can have impartiality and independence in their deliberation with no worry of being sued by dissatisfied litigants, political forces, or specialinterest groups. The primary way to challenge a judge’s decision is, of course, through appeals. To allow judges to be sued would literally bog down the entire judicial process. Other forms of checking judges’ powers, when they act irresponsibly, are Judicial Misconduct Committees; criminal charges for acting outside of the law; and finally, impeachment or recall elections. But what about the factual scenario I pointed out above concerning the criminal who is released with low or no bond and then commits an atrocity. We see it in this country all of the time. Should judges or government be held responsible when repeat offenders are released, when they shouldn’t be, and then go out and harm society? Our laws hold private citizens and businesses liable for injuries that are the result of negligence and/or intentional actions. Why shouldn’t

government be responsible as well? Judges will often explain they are trying to “strike a balance between maintaining the presumption of innocence for the accused and ensuring public safety.” Sometimes, however, common sense screams that more must be done to protect the public’s safety. So what do you do to try to protect the presumption of innocence and yet protect society? I would offer the following suggestions, not that I am a criminal lawyer; and I have handled only a half dozen criminal cases in the early 1980s. But first, I would encourage legislation that would subject all violent-crime offenders for things like rape, robbery, and/or murder, as well as endangerment of human life, to a committee of judges and prosecutors from around the state whose job would be to review cases to determine if bail is even appropriate and then what the bail should be. There should be at least five members on the committee with a majority rule. This committee would decide only if bail is appropriate for the first offense. I would suggest that the judges and prosecutors be paid separately for serving on such committee and that they should be selected by either the Supreme Court or the Mississippi Bar Association Board of Bar Commissioners. They could serve one-, two-, or threeyear terms. Then, if the committee grants bail, the accused has only one shot at misbehavior; and if he/she ever violates bail conditions on the first bail, then he/she should be denied bail forever including bail for subsequent crimes and charges. Now, this takes the bail process out of the hands of the judges in whose jurisdiction the crime is committed; and I bet they would welcome the reprieve. This way, releasing criminals gets greater scrutiny, takes politics out of the equation, gives the accused a realistic review of their case, and further protects society. I know this is a common-sense approach and would take legislative action, and I also know that politics and common sense are often mutually exclusive!!!

ARTICLE | Lucien C. Gwin III Lucien C. “Sam” Gwin III was admitted to the Mississippi Bar in 1981 and has been practicing many aspects of the law at the firm of Gwin, Punches & Kelley in Natchez, Mississippi, ever since.

Come and join us as we explore the threads of freedom woven through the history of our nation... To Learn More:

February 26-28, 2026 Natchez Convention center JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 | BLUFFS & BAYOUS | 27

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Garden to Table with Herbs Mississippi and Louisiana are settling into deep winter in January and February. This usually means grey skies, rain, and the occasional freeze until the warmth and brightness of spring return. To battle the winter blah, consider planting a container of herbs to add brightness to your garden, kitchen, and cooking. For advice on planting the perfect herb container, I turned to Izzi Frank, a program manager with the LSU AgCenter, who created the Sustainable School & Home Gardening Video Series, which can be found on YouTube. Topics range from building raised beds to how and what to plant for each season. “These videos are meant to be used by anyone in the Gulf South who wants to grow sustainably. In this process, soil health is the priority. Less or even zero synthetic fertilizers and pesticides are used, and even waste becomes a valuable resource by becoming compost. The video series is particularly helpful when you only have 5 minutes to get quick but crucial gardening basics,” says Frank. Sustainable home herb gardening begins by selecting a container that will allow ample room for herb transplants to grow. Most annual herbs need 8 to 10 inches between plants while woody herbs like rosemary or lavender need 12 inches of space. Check plant tags for spacing and eventual plant size. Next, consider the preferred growing conditions of the herbs. Rosemary is a Mediterranean plant and prefers welldrained soil that is allowed to dry out between waterings while parsley, cilantro, dill, and alliums prefer even soil moisture for best growth. It’s a good idea to put picky plants like rosemary

ARTICLE | Cecilia Stevens

in individual containers to give them the special conditions they demand. Frank recommends that gardeners be intentional when selecting growing medium for garden containers. She advises gardeners to mix their own for the best results. An ideal mixture for containers is 50% quality compost, 30% peat moss, and 20% perlite. Since containers constantly filter water through the soil, monitor the nutrient needs of the plants and add soil amendments such as compost as needed. The home herb garden can produce kitchen-ready produce almost immediately if starting from transplants. For added winter color, consider planting pansies or other cold-hearty flowers between your herbs. Recipes highlighting herbs have been selected from the Harvest of the Month recipe collection curated by Seeds to Success: The Louisiana Farm to School Program, a part of the LSU AgCenter. Crispy Wonton Salad combines salad greens, mint, and cilantro with a zesty dressing. The recipe can be used as a side or main dish. Greek Chicken Patties are a quick and healthy meal using mint and dill in a Tzatziki sauce. The patties can be served on a bed of salad greens or used as a sandwich filling. Herb butter can be prepared quickly using store-prepared butter and fresh garden herbs, or the recipe can be extended into a child-friendly activity by making butter from cream and then adding the herbs. Pair the butter and entrée recipes with Skillet Herb Bread for a toasty winter treat.

Cecilia Stevens (B.A. LSU and M.ED. Louisiana Tech) resides in Concordia Parish, works for the LSU AgCenter, and is the parent of two adult children. JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 | BLUFFS & BAYOUS | 29

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Crispy Wonton Chicken Salad

Greek Chicken Patties

Salad Dressing Ingredients: 3 tablespoons rice vinegar 3 tablespoons toasted sesame oil 2 tablespoons peach or apricot preserves 2 tablespoons mayonnaise 1 tablespoon soy sauce 1 teaspoon chili powder ½ teaspoon onion powder Salt

Tzatziki Ingredients: ⅔ cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt ½ medium cucumber, peeled, seeded, and finely chopped Juice of ½ lemon 3 cloves garlic, minced, divided 2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh mint 2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh dill ⅛ teaspoon salt ⅛ teaspoon ground white pepper

Salad Ingredients: 8 ounces cooked chicken, shredded (2 cups) 8 wonton wrappers 2 romaine hearts, coarsely chopped 4 scallions, coarsely chopped ½ cup coarsely chopped fresh cilantro leaves with tender stems ½ cup coarsely chopped fresh mint leaves ½ cup Mandarin orange segments, drained (optional) Whisk together all the salad dressing ingredients in a large bowl and season with salt to taste. Refrigerate until ready to assemble salad. Preheat air fryer to 350 degrees. Cut the wonton squares into ½ inch strips and coat them with a light layer of nonstick spray. Place in fryer basket and cook until golden brown, 3 to 5 minutes. Assemble the salad by placing the dressing in the bottom of a large mixing bowl. Add the chopped romaine, scallions, cilantro, mint, chicken, and half of the cooked wontons. Toss to combine. Top with the remaining wontons and mandarin oranges. Serve immediately. Yield: Serves 6 Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 10 minutes 30 | BLUFFS & BAYOUS | JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026

Pattie Ingredients: 1 pound ground chicken breast 3 ounces reduced-fat and crumbled feta cheese 4 large kalamata olives, rinsed, patted dry, and minced 1 egg 1 teaspoon dried oregano ¼ teaspoon black pepper 2 cups mixed baby lettuce 4 hamburger buns (optional) Tzatziki: Combine yogurt, cucumber, lemon juice, 2 cloves garlic, mint, dill, salt, and white pepper in medium bowl; mix well. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve. Combine chicken, cheese, egg, olives, oregano, black pepper, and remaining 1 clove garlic in large bowl; mix well. Shape mixture into four patties. Spray grill pan with nonstick cooking spray; heat over medium-high heat. Grill patties 5 to 7 minutes per side or until cooked through (165°F). Serve patties with sauce and mixed greens or hamburger buns. Serve immediately. Yield: Serves 4 Prep Time: 30 minutes Cook Time: 25 minutes

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Herb Butter

Skillet Herb Bread

1 cup whole butter 4 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs of choice 1 teaspoon lemon zest

3 cups all-purpose flour 3 cloves garlic, minced 1 tablespoon rosemary leaves, finely chopped 1 tablespoon thyme, finely chopped 1¼ teaspoons salt ¾ teaspoon black pepper ½ teaspoon instant yeast 1½ cups water (room temperature) 1 to 2 teaspoons cooking oil 2 tablespoons cornmeal

Put the softened butter in a bowl. Add the herbs and zest; and using a fork, mash it all together until thoroughly combined. Scoop the herb butter onto a piece of waxed paper or parchment paper. Shape it into a log by rolling it in the paper. Wrap the herb butter tightly and refrigerate. Slice off portions to use on steak, seafood, vegetables, or bread. Refrigerate unused portions. Keeps up to one week in refrigerator. OPTIONAL FRESH BUTTER RECIPE: Prepare fresh butter by placing 2 cups of whole cream in a one-quart jar. Place cover on the jar and shake continuously for about 10 to 15 minutes or until the butter forms a solid lump and has separated from the buttermilk. Drain the buttermilk and reserve for other use or discard. Place the butter in a large pan of iced water and gently knead the butter to remove remaining buttermilk. Replace the water at least once while rinsing. Place the finished butter in a large bowl and continue the herb butter recipe. Yield: Serves 32 Prep Time: 15 minutes

Select a large mixing bowl. Add flour, garlic, herbs salt, pepper, and yeast. Add water and mix to form a wet, sticky dough. Do not overmix. Cover bowl tightly with plastic wrap and let stand at room temperature for 18–24 hours until the surface is dotted with bubbles. When you are ready to bake the bread, select a 10inch cast-iron Dutch oven with lid or a 10-inch cast-iron skillet. Lightly coat cooking surface with oil. Sprinkle the bottom of the pan with cornmeal. Remove the dough from the bowl and place into the skillet or Dutch oven. Cover the pan with a clean dishtowel. Let dough rise at room temperature or in a proofing oven until dough has doubled in size. Preheat oven to 450 degrees F. Remove dishcloth from the pan. If using a Dutch oven, cover the pan with the lid. Place the pan into the heated oven; and bake until golden brown, about 30–40 minutes. Wrap unused portion in a clean dishtowel and place in a covered bowl or under a cake dome. Will keep about three days. Yield: Serves 8-10 Prep Time: 1 day 15 minutes Cook Time: 40 minutes JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026 | BLUFFS & BAYOUS | 31

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The Flower Lovers Club The Flower Lovers Club of McComb, Mississippi, marked the holiday season with their annual Christmas Social held at the Holmesville residence of Gay and Will Austin. The event was a festive gathering that combined community spirit, charitable giving, and a celebration of floral artistry. Upon arrival, members were welcomed with glasses of mimosas and an opportunity to contribute to a local charity, PALS, the Pike County animal shelter. Members participated in a traditional ornament exchange, each bringing a garden-themed ornament to share. The luncheon meal was catered by Ken Dixon of Mitchell’s, offering a delicious array of dishes that enhanced the festive atmosphere. The social also featured a special presentation with a focus on the 1950s, a nod to the celebration of the club’s upcoming centennial. Gaye Atkinson, a member of the centennial committee, showcased memorabilia from her childhood, including a Dale Evans little girl’s outfit and an Oklahoma album, both providing a nostalgic glimpse into the decade’s cultural history. Hosting duties for the event were carried out by Kathy Assaf, Delores Feldman, Karen Hart, Kelly Hart, Beth Herrin, Regan Jones, and Carla Stringer. The Flower Lovers Club’s mission is to promote the beautification of Pike County and to educate its members on floral design and horticulture. As they celebrate their 100th anniversary, the club continues to foster community engagement, artistic expression, and environmental appreciation, honoring a century of dedication to these enduring goals. 1— Kathy Assaf 2— Kathy Assaf, Karen Hart, Regan Jones, and Beth Herrin with the garden-theme ornament gifts 3— December Christmas Social hostesses: Front—Regan Jones, Kathy Assaf, Delores Feldman, and Carla Stringer / Back—Kelly Hart, Gay Austin, Karen Hart, and Beth Herrin 4— Susan Gibbes and Delores Feldman 5— Ammy Taylor, Gay Austin, and Sara Hemphill 6— Gaye Atkinson, Lyn Parish, Jane Beacham, and Nancy Hensarling 7— Gaye Atkinson with the 1950s-decade display 8— Hillary Freeman and Allison Viator 9— Susan Gibbes, Tina Brumfield, and Teresa Price 10— Kelly Hart, Chrissie Dorr, Patti Seago, Fran Halloway, and Stringer 11— Beth Wild, Laura Fahner, Nancy Soyars, Sherry Price, and Sue Reeves 12— Sisters—Linda Young and Laura Fahner 13— Allison Viator, Hillary Freeman, April Borman, and Ammy Taylor 14— Victoria Brill and Donna Smith 15— Nancy Smith and Susan Feldman 16— Kelly Hart and Barbara Willis 17— Teresa Price, Sherry Price, and Beth Herrin 18— Ammy Taylor, Ken Mitchell, Gay Austin, and Sara Hemphill

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61st Annual Azalea Ball The 61st Annual Azalea Ball of Junior Auxiliary of McComb, the Mississippi, with this year’s theme of “Saturday Night Fever” was held on February 24, 2024, at Oak Hill Estate in Mississippi. JA of McComb Summit, strives to make a positive impact on children’s lives throughout their community with advantageous service projects, the largest being Camp Sunshine. The Annual Azalea Ball is the organization’s sole fundraiser. Photography of royalty by Beth Hemeter, Image Maker Photography

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1— Queen Nancy Smith and King Pat Brumfield 2— Queen Nancy Smith and Ashley Stovall 3— Jeana and Boo Bennett with Vane and Zach Mills 4— Brianna Causey, Hillary Freeman, and Lynn McInnis 5— Julius C. Butler and King Pat Brumfield with Tina Brumfield, Honorable Quordiniah Lockley 6— Rachel Galdino, Kristen McBeth, and Simmons Copeland 7— Courtney Richard, Ashley Stovall, Melanie Whitaker, and Kattie 8— Chad and Mallory Robinson, Hughes Mikey and Laci Godbold, and Allie and Chris Seay 9— Olivia Haskins and Brooklyn Schmidt 10— Jordan and Stephen Porter 11— Christina and Chris Mitchell 12— Betsy Lindsey, Suzanne Lindsey, and Kate Lott 13— Brad Woods and India 14— Michael Parker, King Warshauer Pat Brumfield, and Dr. Shane Hinckley 15— Sara Doyle, Carlyn Doyle, and Shannon Plunkett 16— Claire Mitchell, Brittany Crawford, Kandace Hart, Valerie Turner, and Rachel Galdino 17— Quentin Smith, Queen Nancy Dr. Scott Smith, and Oliver Smith, Smith 18— Jason and Michelle Cooksey with Kaitlin and Reed Jones

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Lowery, Payn, Leggett & Bellipanni, CPAs (LPLB), strives to ensure our clients accomplish their

Judith Robinson Chapter NSDAR Christmas Luncheon Regent Lynn McInnis welcomed members to the annual Judith Robinson Chapter, NSDAR Christmas Luncheon, held on December 11, 2025, at the beautifully decorated home of Past Regent Linda Young in McComb, Mississippi. The magical spirit of Christmas filled every room with a warm and traditional holiday theme. Guests enjoyed a festive and hearty pot-luck Christmas meal, featuring spiral-sliced honey ham accompanied by an array of homemade side dishes, salads, desserts, and beverages, all served buffet style. The main dining table was elegantly set with Christmas china and highlighted by a striking centerpiece of Christmas trees. Traditional Christmas trees were also displayed throughout the entertaining space, creating a joyful and welcoming atmosphere. During the program, American History Chairman Gail Spinnato presented the prestigious “NSDAR Women in American History” Award to chapter member Janice Stinson Brock. A retired educator, Brock has played a vital role in researching, preserving, and teaching the history of Walthall County, making her a deserving recipient of this honor. The luncheon provided a wonderful time of fellowship, celebration, and reflection on the chapter’s accomplishments over the past year. Members departed uplifted and inspired as they look forward to the year ahead. 1— Barbara Willis, Connie Lambuth, Renee Hote, and Virginia Zeigler 2— Lee Anne Schiro, Nancy Martin, and Betty Penick 3— Carolyn Richmond, Melissa Holeman, and Elaine Jenkins 4— Regent Lynn McInnis, American History Chairman Gail Spinnato, and Award Recipient Janice Brock 5— Suzanne Cutrer, Carla Stringer, Jeanette Alexander, Brenda Laird, and Judy Johnson 6— Dee Lindley, Barbara Willis, Ramona Young, and Dale Free 7— Front—Vice Regent Kathy Prospere / Middle—Tammy Strickland and Regent Lynn McInnis / Back—Sue Boyd and Linda Young

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Pumpkin Patch in Downtown Natchez The month of October in downtown Natchez, Mississippi, saw all shades of orange, white, and yellow during the annual Downtown Natchez Pumpkin Patch 2025. Spearheaded by Downtown Natchez Alliance, this event was a month-long celebration of fall and Halloween with scheduled activities for all ages. Photographs are courtesy of Katherine Parker (KD Public Relations) and Downtown Natchez Alliance.

1— Gillon Christian Mosby, PLLC – Storefront / Betsy Mosby 2— Decorating Gillon Christian Mosby, PLLC – People’s Choice Award presentation / Cole Mosby and Leah Hunter 3— Wishes Sweets and Eats – Most Creative Storefront Winner / Bonita Skeleton and Erin Bruce 4— Loss Prevention Services – Battle of the Businesses Winner / TJ Baggett, Nancy McFarland, Michelle Peyroux-Duhl, and Leah Hunter 5— Kudzu Cotton – Best Use of Pumpkins Winner / Angela Perrin with granddaughter West Hynum 6— Merit Health – Breast Cancer Awareness Pumpkin Display 7— Front: Lonnie and Shanon Melton / Back: Elizabeth Greer, Jenny Vercher, Melissa Morris, and Quay Lutch 8— Sydney Eidt and Fitz 9— Nyx – Best Overall Winner, HOWL-O-Ween Pet Parade 10— Caroline Ketchings and Max – Best Costume Duo, HOWL-O-Ween Pet Parade 11— Laurie Paradise with “Taco Taddie and the Sauces” – Most Creative Costume, HOWL-o-ween Pet Parade / Mary Kay Doherty, Brandy Colbert, Amanda Floyd, Lillie Floyd, Laurie Paradise, and Christie Cassel 12— Natchez-Adams County Humane Society volunteers with Leah Hunter and donated food from the Pet Parade 13— Leah Hunter with Suzy Byrd – “Best Witch Hat” Winner, Downtown Witches Ride 14— Lais Ealey (“Kitten”) – Best Kid’s Costume, Downtown Witches Ride 15— Lais Ealey (“Kitten”) receiving treats from Lexi Lehrman at Butter Cakery during Trick-or-Treat for Little Feet 16— Suzanne Landers and Robin Hebert with their Best Decorated Ride prize donated by The Shops at Kress 17— The Rolling Witches – Best Decorated Ride, Downtown Witches Ride / Robin Hebert, Suzanne Landers, and Laura Tate 18— The Sanderson Sisters and Danny – Best Overall Winners, Downtown Witches Ride / Kassie Dollar, Magen Dollar, Leah Hunter, Whitney Dollar, and Sawyer Dollar 19— Witches Ride volunteers and participants: Maggie Brown, Laura Tate, Robin Hebert, Suzanne Landers, Lisa Sanders 20— Witches Ride judges: Elizabeth Greer, Robyn Blaney, Maggie Brown, Lisa Sanders, and Marcia Passman Hall 21— Julianna Wallace Rabb and Michael Rabb leading the first flight of riders at the Downtown Witches Ride 22— Courtney Thompson of The Petal Club with Casen Parker at the Pumpkin Patch 23— Delivering hay bales for the Pumpkin Patch, coordinated by Levi & Grace Construction 24— Trick-or-Treat for Little Feet participants 25— Trick-or-Treat for Little Feet participants

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Natchez Garden Club Celebrates the Holiday Season with Wreath-making Workshop Meeting The Natchez Garden Club hosted an evening meeting on November 11, 2025, in Ellicott Hall for a Holiday Wreath-Making Workshop. The bow-design-and-wreathdecoration demonstration was conducted by designers Chretia Johnson and Shay Gay. To create their wreaths, members selected from a plethora of ribbons and decorative elements as they applied their artistic talent, enjoyed refreshments, and listened to the strains of holiday music that enhanced the mood for this festive gathering. 1— Jennifer Smith and Chris Bartha 2— Robyn Gregg and Amy Depta 3— Natalie Navarro and Chretia Johnson 4— Ariel Gardner and Jennifer Smith 5— Phyllis Copeland and LeAnn Milligan 6— Katherine Callon and Mary Margaret Gilley 7— Punky Carlton and Helen Smith 8— Susan Gardner and Paige Carter 9— Anita Maria Jordan and Allie Lambuth 10— Patti Barlow, Judy Burkley, and Karen Foster 11— Denise Sebastian 12— Denise Sebastian and Melanie Kennedy 13— Mary Margaret Gilley and Melanie Thayer

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1— Queen Nancy Smith and King Pat Brumfield 2— Queen Nancy Smith and Ashley Stovall 3— Jeana and Boo Bennett with Vane and Zach Mills 4— Brianna Causey, Hillary Freeman, and Lynn McInnis 5— Julius C. Butler and King Pat Brumfield with Tina Brumfield, Honorable Quordiniah Lockley 6— Rachel Galdino, Kristen McBeth, and Simmons Copeland 7— Courtney Richard, Ashley Stovall, Melanie Whitaker, and Kattie 8— Chad and Mallory Robinson, Hughes Mikey and Laci Godbold, and Allie and Chris Seay 9— Olivia Haskins and Brooklyn Schmidt 10— Jordan and Stephen Porter 11— Christina and Chris Mitchell 12— Betsy Lindsey, Suzanne Lindsey, and Kate Lott 13— Brad Woods and India Warshauer 14— Michael Parker, King Pat Brumfield, and Dr. Shane Hinckley 15— Sara Doyle, Carlyn Doyle, and Shannon Plunkett 16— Claire Mitchell, Brittany Crawford, Kandace Hart, Valerie Turner, and Rachel Galdino 17— Quentin Smith, Queen Nancy Dr. Scott Smith, and Oliver Smith, Smith 18— Jason and Michelle Cooksey with Kaitlin and Reed Jones

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Bridge Dedications Memorialize Longserving Adams County Supervisors

On October 25, 2025, and November 14, 2025, in Natchez, Mississippi, bridge dedications and receptions were held respectively in memory of Adams County Supervisors Boyd Sojourner and James Carter. The two were childhood and life-long best friends and served the voters of Adams County for a combined 59 years. Carter was supervisor of District 3 and Sojourner was supervisor of District 2. They were responsible for building nearly 90% of all roads that are paved in the county today. During their time, the hospital was built, as was the port, Liberty Park, and almost every school still open into the public school system today, except for the new high school. The bridge crossing Saint Catherine Creek on Liberty Road is now known as the James Carter Memorial Bridge. The bridge crossing Second Creek on Hutchins Landing Road is now the Boyd Sojourner Memorial Bridge.

4 1— Virginia Harrigan, Tinley Wilson, Faye Williams, Sarah Nelson, and Jean Simonton 2— Bonnie Carter, Carolyn Edit, Peter Trosclair, Doug McCallister, and Jack Sojourner 3— Doug McCallister, Charles Garrity, Peter Trosclair, Jack Sojourner, Carolyn Edit, and Bonnie Carter 4— Melanie Sojourner and Bonnie Carter 5— Bonnie Carter and Kristi Carter Hughes 6— Virginia Sojourner Harrigan, Jack Sojourner, Supervisor Ricky Gray, and Melanie Sojourner 7— Kaelin Russell, Sean Russell, and Justin Russell 8— Chip Harrigan, Virginia Harrigan, Jeff Harrigan, and Patrick Harrigan

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Miss Merry Christmas Reunion Each year, the Vidalia Women's Club selects a senior high school resident to represent the city of Vidalia, Louisiana, as Miss Merry Christmas in the annual Christmas parade. This year, a Miss Merry Christmas Reunion was held at the Vidalia Conference and Convention Center’s Jim Bowie Room on Sunday, December 7, 2025, with the theme, "Sealed with Joy and Stamped with Cheer." Reunion attendees gathered to meet one another, play holiday-themed games, participate in a live class on creating holiday charcuterie cups, and ride in the Christmas parade. Attendees also hand wrote Christmas cards to accompany their over 300 donations of hats, scarfs, and gloves collected during the reunion to be distributed to members of the Concordia Council on Aging in Vidalia. Greetings were provided by Vidalia Women's Club President Rhonda Havard; and catering was provided by Big Lambs, LLC.

1— Trista Demby (2008), Sophie Webber (2020), Torri Richmond Webber (1980), Paula Moffett Jackson (1984), Anna Claire Jowers (2023), Chloe Carter (2025), Kylie Seale (2024), Ginger Sevin Cowart (1981), Rachel Richardson Vaessler (1994), and Taylor Yates Nix (2014) 2— Sophie Webber (2020) and Rachel Richardson Vaessler (1994) 3— Torri Richmond Webber (1980), Trista Demby (2008), and Sophie Webber (2020) 4— Taylor Yates Nix (2014), Chloe Carter (2025), Paula Moffett Jackson (1984), and Ginger Sevin Cowart (1981) 5— Tabatha Roberts Sinclair (1991) 6— Kylie Seale (2024) and Chloe Carter (2025) 7— Torri Richmond Webber (1980) and Taylor Yates Nix (2014) 8— Chelsey Knapp McMillen (2004)

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BLUFFS & BAYOUS MAGAZINE PRESENTS

Wedding Stories�

Amber Nicole Scroggins and Mason Alexander Wells wedding story on page 52 & 53, Photo by Oakwood Media

Devening & Martin Wedding� NATCHEZ, MISSISSIPPI | SEPTEMBER 20, 2025

ollie Brand Devening and Layton Windham Martin were married on September 20, 2025, at St. Mary Basilica in Natchez, Mississippi, with The Very Reverend Aaron M. Williams officiating. The bride is the daughter of Anna and Charles Devening of Natchez and the granddaughter of Carol Jones and Becky and the late Louis Jones, all of Natchez. The groom is the son of Patti and Paul Martin of Ruston, Louisiana, and the grandson of Barbara Kelley of Ruston. Serving the bride as her maid of honor was her sister, Kimble Devening of Choudrant, Louisiana; and serving as best man was the groom’s brother, Paul Martin II of Ruston. Escorted by her father, the bride wore a wedding gown from Magnolia Mariée of Natchez and carried a bouquet fashioned by Dana McGivaren. Ceremony planner for the occasion was Carolyn Eidt; photographer was Stacey Landers, and Wesley Anderson assisted the bride with makeup and hair design. Following the ceremony, the wedding party, family, and guests enjoyed an elegant reception at Magnolia Hall in Natchez with Meet the Press providing the evening’s music. Catering the event were René Adams and Sarah Beth Willard; Erin Eidt Myers prepared the bride’s cake; and Dana McGivaren provided the decorations, set up, and flowers. After a honeymoon in Yellowstone and the Tetons, the couple now live in Choudrant, Louisiana. On the evening before the wedding, a rehearsal dinner was held in Natchez above Pearl Street Pasta, the locale of the wedding reception for the bride’s grandparents Becky and the late Louis Jones.

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Gamberi & Luallen Wedding� NATCHEZ, MISSISSIPPI | MARCH 22, 2025

n a beautiful spring day, Brittany Gamberi and Mike Luallen were united in marriage underneath a canopy of branches from two 250-year-old southern live oak trees at their Oakland Farms home in Natchez, Mississippi, on March 22, 2025. The ceremony was officiated by Dr. Doug Broome of First Baptist Church in Natchez, Mississippi, and witnessed by friends and family from areas all over the country. The bride is the daughter of Ronnie and Gail Gamberi. She is the granddaughter of the late Aristo and Elizabeth Gamberi and the late Mack Smith and Ann Flewelling, all of Natchez, Mississippi. The groom is the son of Larry and Marsha Luallen of Niceville, Florida, and the late David and Ruby Beezley of Heflin, Alabama. He is the grandson of the late C.B. and Dottie Faile of Fort Walton Beach, Florida, and the late Cooper and Bulamae Luallen of Cleburne County, Alabama. The bride’s gown, her mother’s Victorian-inspired wedding dress purchased in 1980 from Ullman’s in Natchez, featured a laced high neck, cascading layers, and long, sheered lantern sleeves. An embroidered floral design on her veil matched that of her flower girls’ dresses. She also wore white Freebird boots with silver stud detailing, To top off the bohemian vibe, her hair was embellished with bold blue-andorange Rabbit Tail flowers, peacock feathers, and braids. The bridal bouquet was a mix of wild blooms in electric colors reflecting the fun and colorful theme of the day. Hair and makeup designs were by Melissa Marks Partin and Kayce Hinson. Arriving guests were seated on log benches, cut from Oakland’s fallen trees, in the bride’s favorite spot beneath the oaks on Oakland, the trees accented with sashes of magnolia and cedar. Colorful blooms from The Flower Station in Natchez decorated the surfaced roots. The wedding began with tunes from Thin Lizzy, “The Boys are Back in Town” playing as the groom and groomsmen, John Moore, Eric Perry, Devon Luallen, Chris Meyer, Christopher Perry, Kyle Chaco, Larry Luallen, Chad Gamberi, and Garrett Gamberi, as well as ring bearers, Rustin Gamberi and Brahm Prince, and usher, Sawyer Beezley, walked along the aisle to their escorts at the top of the hill. The bridesmaids, Addison Prince, Courtney Maples, Caitlyn Gamberi, Katie Gamberi, Bethany Prince, Cameron Gamberi, Nicky Guedon, Emily Wiggins, and Bri Howell, along with flower girls Lauran Prince and Molly Gamberi, were escorted to the ceremony by Maxx, a Friesian stallion pulling the ladies in a vintage carriage from Southern Carriage. The bridesmaids’ floral dresses complemented the

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other maids’ gowns of bright, solid colors. Additional accents were dried-flower hair clips, Firefly earrings gifted by the bride, Freebird boots, and simple bouquets of lavender thrift, feverfew, and white poppy anemones. To the tune of Chris Brown’s “Forever,” the wedding party processed down the aisle in personalized dance moves as the crowd cheered. The bride riding Big Gray, a dapplegray Percheron, and her father riding Man of Steel, a steelgray Percheron, rode together right up to the ceremony site to “Here Comes the Sun” by the bride’s favorite band, The Beatles. As the song rang out, the bride and her father dismounted and danced down the aisle to the awaiting groom. During the ceremony, music from Chris Stapleton’s hits “Starting Over” and “Millionaire” were rendered by Daniel Guedon and Grace Williams. The wedding couple concluded their ceremony with a kiss, danced down the aisle to The Kings’ “You really Got Me Now,” and then rode on horseback into the sunset and to the reception. At the couple’s beautifully crafted Oakland Barn, guests walked into the reception, an open space filled with greenerylined stall doors, bohemian swags with draping ribbon, and suspended flowers. Made by Buttercup Bakery, the bride’s four-tiered, vanilla-bean naked cake with raspberry filling, shelfed with fruit and flowers that matched the bride’s bouquet, sat beautifully upon a large oakwood table made for the couple by Larry Williams from a fallen 250-yearold live oak tree at Oakland. Wooden tables provided by 2J Services were accented with multicolored glass bottles and stemmed flowers. The groom’s cake sat on another cut piece of the downed oak and was deliciously flavored with turtle chocolate and fudge filling. A small flying airplane circled above the cake as a fun accent and reference to the groom’s pilot life. Guests enjoyed selections prepared by Natchez Grazing Company, a smoked hog prepared by Wesley Steckler, and more delicious fare catered by Renee Adams, all of Natchez. Beverages were served by Carl Knight from the tack room of the barn featuring a tap from Natchez Brewing Company. Photographers Haley Bale, Nicole Kossum, and Ronnie Bryant together with videographer Mike Halley captured the vitality, natural beauty, and unforgettable moments of the wedding. Lyndy Floyd served as wedding coordinator for the day; and as DJ for all music at Oakland, Jamie Tyson orchestrated the flow of the ceremony and maintained continuous energy for the reception. After years of travel-nursing adventures, the couple is excited about planting roots back in Natchez at Oakland Farms.

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Kennedy & Calhoun Wedding� FERRIDAY, LOUISIANA | NOVEMBER 15, 2025

rittany Michelle Kennedy and Bobby Jay Calhoun, both of Vidalia, Louisiana, exchanged vows of marriage on November 15, 2025, at Ferriday Hall in Ferriday, Louisiana, with Whest Shirley of Vidalia officiating. The bride is the daughter of the late Rick and Ann Kennedy of Vidalia and Melanie Kennedy of Natchez, Mississippi, and the late John Floyd and Alison Miller of Natchez. She is the granddaughter of the late John D. Floyd and Lizona Floyd of Natchez. The groom is the son of Sue and the late Ronnie Freeman of Ferriday, Louisiana, and Rena Calhoun of Vidalia. He is the grandson of the late Bobby and Velma Calhoun of Vidalia. Attending the bride as matron of honor was Hillary Good Firmin of Longville, Louisiana, and as maid of honor was Brandy Andrews of Vidalia. Bridesmaids were Breanna Hancock of Vidalia and Jessica Holland of Parhams, Louisiana. Best man was Owen Currie of Vidalia; and groomsmen were Casey Calhoun of Vidalia and Aaron Forbess and Ronnie Calhoun, both of Natchez. Escorted by her son, Owen Currie, the bride wore a selection designed by Eddy K from Magnolia Mariée in Natchez—a beautiful, soft, fitted sheath gown with a key-hole back, added by Magnolia Mariée, and cap sleeves. The gown featured two layers of lace, appliqué and Chantilly, and a touch of sparkle with buttons accenting the ensemble all the way down the stunning lace train. She carried a floral bouquet of white and mauve roses, hydrangeas, and eucalyptus. Event planner for the wedding ceremony was Cheryl Rinehart of Natchez with Ronnie Cox providing music, John Grady Burns of Nest in Natchez furnishing the floral accents, and Taylor Cooley serving as photographer Immediately following the ceremony, a reception was held at Ferriday Hall with Ronnie Cox providing the music, Misty Lee having prepared the bride’s and groom’s cakes, Tamara Hill serving as caterer, John Grady Burns having designed the floral décor, and Taylor Cooley covering the event with her photography. Fashioning the bride’s hair was KariAnna Weatherly, and assisting with the bride’s makeup was Taylor Yates Nix. Both the bride’s and groom’s rings were by Melissa Vaughan of Rise N Shine Studio in Natchez.

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Kiper & Weatherly Wedding� NATCHEZ, MISSISSIPPI | OCTOBER 4, 2025

arley Anne Kiper and Michael Tyler Weatherly were united in marriage at 5:30 p.m. October 4, 2025, on the beautiful grounds of Stanton Hall in Natchez, Mississippi. The Reverend Garrison Griffith, the couple’s friend and pastor, performed the meaningful, spiritual, at times humorous, and deeply personal ceremony as friends and family looked on while seated beneath ancient trees. The bride is the daughter of DeAnne and William Myles Kiper of Wisner, Louisiana. She is the granddaughter of Curtis Ann Davis and the late Dave M. Davis of Alvin, Texas, and the late Mary and Ernest Kiper of Wisner, Louisiana. The groom is the son of Jimmy Wayne and Debra Weatherly of Vidalia, Louisiana. His grandparents are the late Joseph and Catherine Cason of Waterproof, Louisiana, and the late Bobby and Annemarie Weatherly of Natchez, Mississippi. The bride arrived in a 1931 Ford Model A, restored by her late grandfather Ernest Kiper. Escorted by her father to an instrumental version of “Gratitude,” she wore a white strapless Essence of Australia gown with a full Martina Liana overskirt from Town and Country in New Orleans, Louisiana. The gown, enhanced with pearls and iridescent accents, featured a cathedral-length train with a clean, sculpted finish and a row of covered buttons that extended from the bodice to the hem. The bridal bouquet was a mix of hydrangeas and roses in shades of pink and cream. She carried the memory of her late grandparents with her in the form of bouquet charms bearing their photos. Attending the bride as matrons of honor were Callie Shermer Wilson of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and Kacie Linzay Campbell of Monroe, Louisiana. Bridesmaids were Payton Elise Brandon of Benton, Louisiana; Shelby Kiper Burns and Kainley James, both of Wisner, Louisiana; and Hannah Katheryn Cobb of Baton Rouge, Louisiana. They wore floorlength gowns in blush pink with a bow detail at the shoulder, gowns designed by the Dessy Group from Bella Bridesmaids, and they carried bouquets of hydrangeas and roses in pinkand-green hues. Mary Amelia Kiper, niece of the bride, was the flower girl. Attending the groom as best man was Michael Glenn Nelson of Ferriday, Louisiana. Groomsmen were Todd Jayson Sims and Zachary Dylan Sontoyo, both of Vidalia, Louisiana; Devin Reid Evans of Sicily Island, Louisiana; Seth Alan Barlow of Ferriday, Louisiana; and Clay Kiper of Alexandria, Louisiana. Following the ceremony, guests were invited into the historic home’s center hall to enjoy champagne and hors d’oeuvres. A huge arrangement in the bride’s chosen florals rested on the hall table while the triple parlors of Stanton

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Hall held tables covered in ivory cloths and laden with delicious food including boiled shrimp, jambalaya, prime rib, grilled vegetables, and an array of cheeses, meats, and fruit. An antique silver container in the parlors held yet another beautiful arrangement in shades of pink and cream, and flickering candlelight from cream-colored tapers and pillar candles illuminated the reception area. The food was prepared by René Adams of Simply Spectacular Catering. The floral designer was Lisa Kiper, the aunt of the bride. The wedding cake was a five-tiered ivory confection with vintage buttercream piping. The groom’s cake was a two-tiered red velvet with cream cheese icing. Both cakes were made by Rose Atwater of Rose Bakes. Pianist Drew David provided a musical backdrop in the parlor while a trio performed jazzy standards on the back veranda as guests mingled on the patio beneath a canopy of twinkle lights. In the property’s Carriage House, Aa’Keela and the Beats provided live music for guests’ evening of dancing and another buffet of classic southern food and drink. Capturing memories of the day were photographer Joanna Weed of J. Claire Creative and videographers Michael Young and Karl Wiggers. The couple departed the reception in the Model A to the cheers and well-wishes of friends and family. The morning of the wedding, a bridal brunch was held at Myrtle Bank, circa 1835. The wedding party wore matching pajamas, gifts from the bride, as they prepared for the big day. The bride wore a white silk pajama set adorned with an appliqué from her mother’s wedding gown. Hair stylists for the event were Bailey New Van Rooyen and Anna Catherine Hester. Makeup artists were McKenna Goddard and Izzy Goddard. The evening before the ceremony, a rehearsal dinner was hosted by the parents of the groom at Cooley & Co. A meal of fried fish and all the trimmings was prepared with the assistance of longtime friends of the bride’s parents. Tables were adorned with black lanterns, eucalyptus, and photos from the lives of the bride and groom. The bride received her nursing degree from Louisiana Tech University and is an RN in the surgery department of Trinity Medical in Ferriday. The groom has worked in the oil and gas industry for 15 years and recently began a career as a licensed home inspector and assists in managing a residential contracting business. The couple enjoyed a honeymoon at Sandals Resort Dunn’s River in Jamaica and are now at home in Wisner, Louisiana.

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Scroggins & Wells Wedding� NATCHEZ, MISSISSIPPI | OCTOBER 4, 2025

n Saturday, October 4, 2025, Amber Nicole Scroggins and Mason Alexander Wells exchanged vows at Jefferson Street Methodist Church in Natchez, Mississippi. The double-ring ceremony was officiated by Dennis Lewellyn, a grandfather of the groom. The bride is the daughter of Mitch and Natalie Scroggins of Natchez, and the granddaughter of Burl and Ruby Roberts and of the late Nelson and Pennye Scroggins. The groom is the son of Patrick and Laurie Wells, and the grandson of Dennis and Phyllis Lewellyn, Glynn and Gayle Pittman, and Bill and Mary Launey, and the late Don Wells. The bride, given in marriage by her parents, wore a gown of ivory-lace-layered tulle designed by Eddy K. The bodice featured an unlined lace design with subtle beading and delicate lace straps designed by the bride. From the fitted bodice, the gown flowed into a full skirt with buttons cascading the length of the train. She carried a traditional bouquet of ranunculus, Mother of Pearl Roses, and Ohara Garden Roses accented with eucalyptus and muted pink blossoms. Affixed to the bouquet was her late grandmother’s brooch. The matron of honor was the bride’s sister, Brittany Smith. Bridesmaids were Emily Bishop, Audrey Kidd, Tori Roberts, Jill Robinette, Sarah Ruth, and Katie Vanderburg. Each wore a full-length rosette satin gown and pearl earrings, a gift from the bride, and carried a smaller version of the bride’s bouquet. Flower girls were the bride’s cousins Remi Barron, Eleanor Bracknell, and Ainsley Cavin, wearing fulllength ivory satin gowns and floral crowns of baby’s breath accented with ivory satin. Attending the groom were Ethan Clark, best man, and groomsmen Baylor Doughty, Britton Nelson, Alan Pittman, Ethan Reid, Cooper Wells, and Walker Wheeler. Eli Smith, nephew of the bride, and Otto Wells, cousin of the groom, served as ring bearers. All wore traditional black tuxedos from Magnolia Mariée of Natchez. Lighting the ceremony candles were Cooper Wells, brother of the groom, and Ethan Clark. The flowers gracing the altar and accenting the family pews were the bride’s favorite blooms with flowing satin ribbons. A table in the church’s foyer held an arrangement of blooms from the ceremony and a guest book crafted from the couple’s engagement photos. Organist Anna Rose Glidden provided ceremony music. “Jesu Joy of Man’s Desire” played for the seating of the mothers, grandmothers, and the groom’s special aunt, Linda Grafton; and Pachelbel’s “Canon in D” accompanied the attendants’ procession. "A Thousand Years" played for the bride’s processional, and the couple exited to strains

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from “The Sound of Music,” the bride’s late grandmother’s favorite film. Following the ceremony, guests enjoyed a reception hosted by the bride’s parents at the Natchez Civic Center. Blakeley Santos of Belle Amour Weddings and Events of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, created a dreamy ambiance with a white-fabric cascading canopy, a breathtaking floral chandelier, and a dance floor featuring a custom design crafted by the bride’s cousin and graphic designer Tori Sinclair Roberts. The soulful sound of the band Three Thirty-Seven of Lafayette, Louisiana, set the tone for a night to remember. The newlyweds shared their first dance to “At Last” by Etta James. The bride and her father danced to “I Loved Her First” by Heartland while the groom and his mother danced to “Unforgettable” by Nat King Cole, honoring a lifetime of love and memories. Catering the event was Bacon & Fig of Baton Rouge serving a variety of Louisiana cuisine from char-grilled oysters and crawfish jambalaya to crab cakes. A charcuterie board added savory elegance, while a flowing chocolate fountain encircled by fresh fruits offered a sweet touch. The bride selected a white cake with vanilla buttercream and intricate Lambeth-style piping. Topping the five-layer cake, made by Molly Manning Robertson of Natchez, was a gold “The Wells.” The groom’s cake, made by Rose Atwater to reflect a duck-hunting theme, was a chocolate fudge cake with ganache drip and ganache-dipped strawberries. Before cutting the cakes, the couple with Waterford toasting flutes, a gift from Steve and Anita Brinson, the groom’s uncle and aunt, shared a champagne toast with the bridal party. The couple left the celebration under a sparkling tunnel and were driven away by the bride’s father in a classic red 1963 Chevrolet Corvette convertible, owned by Ronnie and Jean Smith, close friends of the bride’s family. After honeymooning in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, and trout fishing in Arkansas, the couple resides in Columbia, Mississippi. Kaelin Daye with Oakwood Media of Natchez provided the couple’s engagement photos, bridal portraits, and wedding and reception coverage. Julie Milne with Soiree Social captured the entire wedding day as the couple’s content creator. MaCee Crouch of Natchez was the makeup artist for the bride as well as the hairstylist for the bride, bride’s mother, groom’s mother, and bridal party. Taylor Nix and Bailey Batte of Vidalia, Louisiana, were makeup artists for the bridal party. Special friend of the bride, Shana Bourgeois served as the bride’s proxy during rehearsal. Natchez Trolley provided transportation for the bridal party.

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