Bluffs & Bayous May 2015

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FROM THE EDITOR

W

hen we think of those upcoming summer days, most automatically picture a white, o sandy beach and a stunning suntan to go along with it. While some travel for hours out of state orr even out of the country to get to that heavenly destina-ttion, locals are beginning to reconsider their own coastline along the edge of Mississippi.

Mississippi’s Gulf Coast is home to refreshing restaurants, relaxing accommodations, and some of the most persevering people I have ever met. This year is the ten-year anniversary of Hurricane Katrina’s destructive and GHYDVWDWLQJ ODQGIDOO DORQJ WKDW FRDVWOLQH :KLOH PDQ\ ÁHG QRUWK ZLWKRXW WKH thought of returning, a hardworking majority came back to the Mississippi Gulf Coast in the days, weeks, and months that followed. The work to rebuild and renew the coast has not been easy, by any means; but the people of the Mississippi Gulf Coast are opening their doors to travelers from far and wide. It’s time to revisit the Mississippi Gulf Coast; it’s time to vacation in our own backyard; and it’s time to give back to those who have saved one of the most scenic highways to run along the Gulf of Mexico. So, let’s kick off travel season and enjoy this summer along and beyond the Mississippi.

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May 2015

FEATURES

Visiting the Recreated Coast pages 28 - 34 FestivalSouth pages 35 Downtown Vicksburg: Revitalization and the Living is Easy pages 36 - 38 Bluffs & Bayous { May 2015 { Page 5

May 2015

FAVO R I T E S All Outdoors Thoughts on the Land ............................................................................................9

Capital City Beat T’Beaux’s Crawfish ..........................................................................................60-61

Down Home Daycations Try a “Daycation” in Vicksburg ..................................................................... 44-46

Events May Premier Events.........................................................................................62-63

T’Beaux’s Crawfish pages 60-61

May Louisiana Up & Coming! ........................................................................ 64-70 May Mississippi Up & Coming! ........................................................................71-77

G’s Fare Recipes for a Delicious Mother’s Day .............................................................13-15

In the Garden Columbine as an Annual .................................................................................22-23

Legal Notes You Are Fired........................................................................................................18

Southern Sampler For the Love of the Game................................................................................80-81

The Social Scene Beer & Burgers Party for Jordan ....................................................................10-12

Try a “Daycation” in Vicksburg page 44-46

Phi Mu Brunch for Iles ........................................................................................16 Mardi Gras Party for Mayers ................................................................................19

ON THE COVER When arriving in Gulfport, Mississippi, visitors and locals alike are greeted with white sand and beautiful views on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Photo by Aimee Guido. Artistic Design by T.G. McCary

Krewe of Ceres Charity Ball ............................................................................24-27 Celebrating the Crane’s Anniversary ..............................................................48-49 Ferriday Garden Club Style Show ...................................................................50-51 Mock Book Signing ..............................................................................................52 NGC Royal Court Brunch ....................................................................................53 Smokin’ on the Tracks ....................................................................................54-55 Baby Shower for Ross ......................................................................................56-57 Open House with Southwest Insurance ...............................................................58

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PUBLISHER Cheryl Foggo Rinehart MANAGING EDITOR CONSULTING EDITOR Jennie Guido Jean Nosser Biglane GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Jan Ratcliff Anita Schilling STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS Aimee Guido Tim McCary Van O’Gwin Elise D. Parker Bill Perkins Cheryl Rinehart Lisa Adams Whittington SOCIAL MEDIA & EVENTS MANAGER Anne Elise Rinehart SALES STAFF Jennie Guido Cheryl Rinehart Donna Sessions JoAnna Sproles CONTRIBUTORS MarySusan Aster Dr. Gary R. Bachman Lucien C. “Sam� Gwin Becky Junkin Ross McGehee Michael Roboski, Jr. Alma Womack

Cheryl Rinehart

Jean Biglane

Anne Elise Rinehart

MarySusan Aster

Dr. Gary R. Bachman

Jennie Guido

Jan Ratcliff

Aimee Guido

Anita Schilling

Van O’Gwin

Tim McCary

Donna Sessions

JoAnna Sproles

Elise D. Parker

Lucien C. “Sam� Gwin

Becky Junkin

Ross McGehee

Michael Roboski, Jr.

Alma Womack

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 QRW QHFHVVDULO\ UHà HFW WKH YLHZV RI WKH SXEOLVKHU QRU GR WKH\ FRQVWLWXWH DQ HQGRUVHPHQW RI SURGXFWV RU VHUYLFHV KHUHLQ :H UHVHUYH WKH ULJKW WR UHIXVH DQ\ DGYHUWLVHment. Bluffs & Bayous strives to insure the accuracy of our magazine’s contents. However, should inaccuracies or omissions occur, we do not assume responsibility.

OFFICE 423 Main Street, Suite 7 | Natchez, MS 39120 | 601-442-6847 bluf fsmag@gmail.com | bluf fs.editor@gmail.com bbupandcoming@gmail.com www.bluf fsbayous.com

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ALL OUTDOORS

story by Ross McGehee

Thoughts on the Land I

had a very sobering thought a few days ago when I was out on the farm, and it struck me like a thunderbolt. What would we do if we were to lose this land? Wow, it’s not like we are doing anything to jeopardize it. However, how would we cope, where would we go, what would we do for a living, where would we live? And on it goes. And I really have a hard time not thinking about it. Granddaddy ran plantations that had been foreclosed on for Britton & Koontz Bank in the ’30s. Artonish (now mistakenly referred to as Loch Leven), Wickland, Brandon Hall, Canebrake, Tanglewood, Smiley, and Oak Ridge Plantations are among those that he oversaw. He ended up EX\LQJ DOO RU SDUW RI WKH ODVW Ă€YH IRU RXU home place. We’ve added to it over the years and enjoy the quiet that comes from not having neighbors. :H DUH QRZ LQ WKH Ă€IWK JHQHUDWLRQ RQ the farm, swinging on the swings under the Live Oak tree, riding horses, turkey huntLQJ UDLVLQJ FDWWOH Ă€[LQJ IHQFH UDLVLQJ WLPEHU DQG UHSDLULQJ HURVLRQ VLWHV 7KLV Ă€IWK generation is not yet old enough to appreciate what we have, but they are showing a surprising awareness of nature. And with the corporate structure of the business side of it, they will have the property for years, hopefully forever. I remember how offended I was when a local “trailer parkâ€? realtor called two days after Dad’s death to make an offer on the farm. How dare he? How could he? Did

he have any sense of propriety or decency? No. Then, later when a survey crew showed up taking shots on the county road, saying that it was to tie in with Highway 61—“Got news for you, Buddy. Highway 61 is two miles yonder way!â€? We tore out all their reference points and back shots. Every few years there’s another inquiry about a highway or power line or pipeline or oil well that would just work out so nicely if it came through the middle of the place. Call me an obstructionist, but no thanks. This is where we live. It’s where we’ve buried countless pets and hunted Easter eggs. It’s where we’ve broken arms, fallen out of trees, picked up chunks, plantHG Ă RZHUV EXLOW IHQFH KDG SLFQLFV DQG turned over at least one tractor. It’s where we’ve swam in the ponds, learned to drive, watched a horse run away with Bucky Merritt (He brought him back, dang it!), killed a Boone-and-Crockett deer, and hauled hay on a Sunday. It is also where ZH¡YH Ă€VKHG FRPELQHG FORYHU VHHG picked up pecans, raked up pine straw, swam in the creek, got whuppins, and generally learned about life. So what would we do if that was suddenly taken away from us? There is no place that can replace that farm. Or the PHPRULHV 2U WKH VZHDW :RXOG ZH Ă€JKW LW" Darn right. To the death? There are some that would say, “Yes.â€? We hear on the news every day about some place across the globe that is in dispute as to the ownership of it. People

GLVSODFHG URFNHWV Ă€UHG VWRQHV WKURZQ bombs set off; and we wonder why don’t they just move out to some other place? We hear about some tribe in the rain forest that is being pushed farther back into the jungle because of development. We hear about a little old lady in Manhattan that refuses to sell her house to a developer so he can tear it down and replace it with a condo. And we hear about genocide in Africa: Those folks have to go to make room for these folks. But how many of those people are on land that their grandfathers bought? Or their grandfathers back to biblical times? How many generations have climbed the same trees, gotten water from the same wells, swam in the streams, or slept in the same beds as their ancestors? Those are the people that deal with my biggest fear every day. That is where they live. That is the life they have chosen although it may not seem like much of a life to us. We’ve often heard, “It may not look like much but it’s mine.â€? Is it worth dying for? They think so. I have empathy for them. So we’ve got a place that, according to my Dad, “keeps the sun from shining in hellâ€? and “is a good place to raise tricycle motors.â€? Beyond that, to the passing motorist, it might not seem like much. But it’s all that we have and we’re happy with it. I just hope it stays that way. Columnist Ross McGehee, a lifelong resident of Natchez, Mississippi, owns a diversified and far-flung farm operation.

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THE social SCENE NATCHEZ, MS

Beer & Burgers Party for Jordan n March 14, 2015, a party was held for Pilgrimage Garden Club King Tyler Douglas Jordan at The Camp under the hill in Natchez, Mississippi. Hosted by Mr. and Mrs. Alan Sullivan, guests enjoyed specialty burgers, craft beer, and a scenic view of the Mississippi River.

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Adam Weaver and Blake Pannell Avery Middleton and Austin Terry Tiffany Aultman and Haley Carpenter Sarah Carpenter and Steve Scarborough Jordan Nettles and Katie Ernst Phillip Ballard and Russell Goodman Madelen Greer and Allie Mayers

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8 8 JT Abernathy, Sam Cockburn, and Whitney Porter 9 PJ Williams, Brooke Goldman, and Clay Hicks 10 Sandra Ellard and Lisa Dale Mayers 11 Justin Allgood, John Smith, and Jordan Nettles 12 Elizabeth Cady, Tyler Morrison, and Jake McKinney

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NATCHEZ, MS

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13 Ivy Malone, Malcolm McElheney, and Martin Charboneau 14 Alex Dale and Sierra Scala 15 Brady Pate, John Haile, and GA Mayers 16 Karen Mayers and Marina Scala 17 Carter Smith, Dale Matheny, and Jake McKinney 18 Tyler Jordan and Avery Middleton 19 Marty Ellard, Madelen Greer, and Sarah Carpenter 20 Katie Ernst and Sarah Kathryn Meng 21 Jordan Nettles, Elizabeth Cady, and Tyler Morrison 22 Lisa Dale Mayers and Tyler Jordan

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THE social SCENE NATCHEZ, MS

23 Lauren Barattini, Blakeli Entremont, Anna Morgan Leonards, and Madeline Iles 24 Alex Smith, Chet Martin, Eleanor Vigneault, and Marty Ellard 25 Standing—Anna Morgan Leonards, Blakeli Entremont, Lauren Barattini, Sierrah Martinez, and Karmen Smith; seated—Allison Barnard

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G’S FARE

story by Becky Junkin photos by Jennie Guido

Recipes for a Delicious Mother’s Day S

everal years ago, my daughter-in-law, Stacey, and her sister, Andrea Murphree, compiled a beautiful book of family recipes for their mother as a Mother’s Day gift. Each family member submitted a favorite recipe from his or her childhood to contribute to the book. Not only is it a wonderful cookbook but it also is a treasured memoir

ÀOOHG ZLWK SLFWXUHV DQG UHà HFWLRQV WKURXJKRXW :KLOH LW ZDV a lot of work collecting recipes and pictures and putting WKHP DOO WRJHWKHU , WKLQN WKH UHVXOW ZDV GHÀQLWHO\ ZRUWK LW In honor of Mother’s Day coming up, I would like to share some of these mouth-watering selections for your May celebrations. Bluffs & Bayous { May 2015 { Page 13

Served at a sip-and-see for one of the family’s grandchildren, this beverage is one that all of the children enjoy making for guests.

PEACH ICE TEA 3 11.5-ounce cans peach nectar 2 quarts brewed tea 1 cup sugar 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice Stir together all ingredients, and chill until ready to serve

Sisters Andrea and Stacey shared this family favorite from those warm summer months.

WATERMELON SALAD WITH MINT LEAVES 1 5-pound watermelon 1 Vidalia or sweet onion 1/4 cup red wine vinegar Salt and pepper 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped 4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled 6 whole mint sprigs *\[ [OL Ă…LZO MYVT [OL TLSVU HUK J\[ PU[V IP[L ZPaLK WPLJLZ 9LTV]L and discard the seeds, and set aside. Peel and slice the onion into rings. In a small bowl, combine the vinegar, salt, and pepper; and whisk until the salt is dissolved. Slowly whisk in the olive oil, a few drops at a time. Add the chopped mint, taste, and adjust seasonings. In a large bowl, combine the melon, onion, and feta. Pour the dressing over the melon mixture and toss gently until everything is coated and evenly mixed. Garnish with mint springs. To serve, divide salad among individual plates and garnish with mint leaves.

The Willis children remember this recipe from many Christmas mornings. After all of the presents were opened, this breakfast bread was ready and waiting to be enjoyed.

SAUSAGE-STUFFED FRENCH BREAD 1 pound hot sausage 1/2 cup onion, chopped 1/2 cup celery, chopped 1 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon pepper 1/4 teaspoon sage 1/4 cup milk 2 eggs Loaf of French bread Pepper Jack cheese Brown sausage, onion, and celery. Add salt, pepper, and sage. Mix milk and eggs together. Scoop out the center of a loaf of French bread, reserving the breadcrumbs. Mix the breadcrumbs with the sausage mixture. Mix the milk/egg mixture into the sausage. Stuff the bread with the PL[WXUH DQG EXWWHU WKH WRS %DNH IRU ÀIWHHQ PLQXWHV DW GHJUHHV 7RS ZLWK SHSSHU MDFN FKHHVH DQG EDNH DQ DGGLWLRQDO ÀYH PLQXWHV Page 14 { May 2015 { Bluffs & Bayous

Stacey remembers this savory recipe.

BURGERS WITH ONION JAM For burger: 2 pounds lean ground beef 4 ounces goat cheese 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper 12 slices grilled Texas toast Onion jam For onion jam: 2 tablespoons cooking oil 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced 2 large red onions, thinly sliced 2 cups green onions, chopped 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed To prepare the jam, in a large skillet, heat cooking oil over medium heat. Add yellow HUK YLK VUPVUZ *VVR HUK Z[PY MVY Ă„]L TPUutes. Stir in green onions, and cook for 25 to 30 minutes or until browned, stirring occasionally. Add balsamic vinegar and brown sugar, and reduce heat. Simmer for 10 to 12 minutes or until most of the liquid has L]HWVYH[LK 9LTV]L MYVT OLH[ *V]LY HUK chill for up to one week. In a large bowl combine ground beef, half of the onion jam, goat cheese, salt, and crushed red pepper. Shape mixture into six one-inch thick patties. For a charcoal grill, grill patties on the rack of an uncovered grill directly over medium coals for 18 to 23 minutes or until done, turning once halfway through grilling. For a gas grill, preheat grill to medium. Place patties on the grill rack over heat. Cover and grill as above. Serve on Texas toast with onion jam and, if desired, additional goat cheese.

For dessert, enjoy this treat from Andrea, Jody, Banks, and Mary Reese. A variation of this recipe can be to substitute peanut butter for butter in the crème de menthe layer and milk for crème de menthe. It is always a hit!

CRĂˆME DE MENTHE BROWNIES For brownie layer: For crème de menthe layer: For glaze: 1/2 cup butter 2 cups confectioners’ sugar 1 cup chocolate chips 1 cup sugar 1/2 cup butter 1 stick butter 4 eggs, beaten 1/4 cup crème de menthe J\W Ă…V\Y 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 16-ounce can chocolate syrup 1 teaspoon vanilla To make brownie layer, cream butter and sugar. Add eggs and other ingredients in order given. Blend well and pour into a greased 9-inch by 13-inch pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 20 to 25 minutes. To make crème de menthe layer, TP_ [VNL[OLY PUNYLKPLU[Z HUK ZWYLHK V]LY JVVSLK IYV^UPL SH`LY -VY [OL NSHaL, melt chips and butter. Let cool until it spreads easily, and spread over crème de menthe layer. Chill and cut into squares. %HFN\ -XQNLQ PRWKHU RI IRXU DQG JUDQGPRWKHU RI VHYHQ LV D OLIHORQJ 1DWFKH] UHVLGHQW D UHWLUHG HOHPHQWDU\ WHDFKHU RI WZHQW\ IRXU \HDUV DQG FHUWLĂ€HG 3LODWHV LQVWUXFWRU

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THE social SCENE NATCHEZ, MS

Phi Mu Brunch for Iles n March 15, 2015, a Phi Mu-themed brunch was held in honor of Pilgrimage Garden Club Queen Madeline Marcantel Iles at the home of Denise and Dan Thibodeaux in Natchez, Mississippi. Hostesses included Lisa Dale Mayers, Jan Kirkwood, Donna Callaway, Noelle Speed, Denise Thibodeaux, Lou Ellen Stout, Jean Biglane, Rene Adams, and Jennifer Wimberly.

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1 Front—Susan Harmon, Allison Barnard, Lauren Barattini and sierra Martinez; back—Shelby Figueroa, , Madeline Iles, and Victoria Sherwood 2 Tyler Jordan and Marty Ellard 3 Katie Ernst, Sarah Kathryn Meng, and Jordan Nettles 4 Susan Harmon and Victoria Sherwood 5 Madelyn, Carrie, and Betty Iles 6 Jordan Nettles, Marty Ellard, Madeline Iles, and Sarah Kathryn Meng 7 Melissa Pittman, Katie Losey, Luke Cockerham, and Sarah Gray 8 Madeline Iles, Lauren Durbin, Miriam Keith and Shelby Figueroa 9 Lou Ellen Stout, Lisa Dale Mayers, Noelle Speed, Donna Callaway, Jan Kirkwood, and Denise Thibodeaux

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LEGAL NOTES

story by Lucien C. Gwin III

You Are Fired

E

ver heard those words? First, let me say employment law is a vast subject with a thousand different scenarios; thus, I can only hit some highlights in this article. The thrust of this piece is to talk about Mississippi employment law and its circumstances. There are issues in employment law that deal with sexual harassment, racial discrimination, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and the Religious Freedom Restoration Act as well as a few others that may provide relief to people who may have EHHQ Ă€UHG SXUVXDQW WR RQH RI WKHVH LVVXHV Truthfully, employment termination under these federal statutes is few and far beWZHHQ ,I \RX HYHU Ă€QG \RXUVHOI WHUPLQDWHG pursuant to one of these federal statutes, then federal law preempts state law. But what I want to cover in this article today is the issue (which I have seen so many times) of an employee, who can be male or female, black or white, or poor or rich, who is terminated seemingly for no good reason. First, you need to know that Mississippi is an “at willâ€? employment state. This means that without a federal issue or a conWUDFW RI HPSOR\PHQW \RX FDQ EH Ă€UHG IRU D good reason, a bad reason, or no reason. One may ask, “Does this mean that, even though I have worked for a company,

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a business, or an employer for over twenW\ Ă€YH \HDUV DQG RXW RI WKH FOHDU EOXH WKDW HPSOR\HU Ă€UHV PH , ZRXOG KDYH WR MXVW take it?â€? I would answer that almost ninety-nine per cent of the time, “Yes, you do.â€? I have seen countless numbers of people devote a large part of their lives to a particuODU MRE RQO\ WR EH XQFHUHPRQLRXVO\ Ă€UHG RQ D ZKLP 3HRSOH DUH Ă€UHG IRU ORWV RI UHDVRQV downturn happening in the economy, overKHDG VWDUWLQJ WR JHW DKHDG RI SURĂ€W SHRSOH QRW IXOĂ€OOLQJ WKHLU HPSOR\HUV¡ H[SHFWDWLRQV insubordination occurring, etc. In almost all cases of this type, the employer is within his or her legal rights to terminate. With its exceptions outlined in the second paragraph above, the question is, “Is there ever any relief offered for employees LQ 0LVVLVVLSSL ZKHQ WKH\ DUH Ă€UHG"Âľ The answer is sometimes. First, the easy answer is that in Mississippi an emSOR\HH FDQQRW EH Ă€UHG OHJDOO\ LI KH RU VKH refuses to commit an illegal act for his employer or if the employee reports an illegal act committed by his or her employer to the authorities. In Mississippi, LI DQ HPSOR\HH LV Ă€UHG XQGHU HLWKHU RQH of these conditions, then he has legal recourse against an employer which can add up to some big damages.

Next, there are those rare occasions when an employee has a conWUDFW IRU HPSOR\PHQW IRU D GHĂ€QHG SHriod of time with no provision for immediate termination. I have seen these FRQWUDFWV PRVWO\ LQ WKH PHGLFDO Ă€HOG where, for example, a doctor goes to ZRUN IRU D KRVSLWDO IRU D GHĂ€QLWLYH SHriod of time. Employee handbooks ironically are actually contracts between an employer and employee. If an employer states in a handbook that, before an employee may be terminated, there has to be a certain grievance procedure followed, then in those limited circumstances, if the employer does not follow the handbook, then he or she can be sued for wrongful termination. On the other hand, if an employer states, either in a handbook or through company policy, that an employee is an “at will employeeâ€? and may be terminated for any reason of the employer’s choosing, then should the employee be Ă€UHG IRU QR JRRG UHDVRQ , EHOLHYH WKH HPployer is within his legal rights. Now, what about the issue of an employer abusing an employee? The most prevalent issue seems to be a situation when an employer uses a derogatory term such as a racial slur or a sexist remark that is used purposely to degrade or belittle the employee. Such cases are actually rare; nonetheless, if such were to occur, then it could be construed as outrageous and revolting conduct meant to invoke emotional distress and, thereby, give the employee a cause of action for intentionDO LQĂ LFWLRQ RI HPRWLRQDO GLVWUHVV 7KHVH cases require a lot of proof and a lot of witnesses. Often, when it is just the word between the employer and employee, it is YHU\ GLIĂ€FXOW WR ZLQ IURP WKH HPSOR\HH¡V point of view. My Take Mississippi law is basically designed IRU HDV\ KLUH HDV\ Ă€UH )URP WKH HPployer’s prospective, that is a good thing; however, from the employee’s prospective, it is not. Lucien C. “Samâ€? Gwin III was admitted to the Mississippi Bar in 1981 and has been practicing many aspects of the law at the firm of Gwin, /HZLV 3XQFKHV .HOOH\ LQ 1DWFKH] 0LVVLVVLSSL ever since.

THE social SCENE NATCHEZ, MS

Mardi Gras Party for Mayers brunch was held for Queen Rosalie XXXIII, Lisa Dale Mayers, at Pleasant Hill, which is the home of Valerie and John Bergeron in Natchez, Mississippi. Queen Rosalie’s duchesses and family enjoyed the seated affair during the Mardi Gras season.

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1 Valerie Bergeron, Mary Kay Doherty, Beverly Ogden, Leah Ulmer, Kristin Jordan, Jana Junkin, and Lisa Dale Mayers 2 Ann Marie Pate and Allie Mayers 3 Allie Mayers, Sandra Ellard, and Beverly Ogden 4 DeAnn Sullivan and Lisa Dale Mayers 5 Kristin Jordan, Jana Junkin, and Mary Kay Doherty 6 Laura and DeAnn Sullivan with Karen Mayers 7 Valerie Bergeron and Lisa Dale Mayers 8 Laura Sullivan, Sandra Ellard, Allie Mayers, Ann Marie Pate, and Karen Mayers 9 Presley Peters and Amy Peters

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BROOKHAVEN, MISSISSIPPI Page 20 { May 2015 { Bluffs & Bayous

BROOKHAVEN, MISSISSIPPI Bluffs & Bayous { May 2015 { Page 21

IN THE GARDEN

story and photos by Dr. Gary R. Bachman

Columbines, such as this Aquilegia Swan blue and white, can thrive in Mississippi landscapes when treated as an annual.

Columbine as an Annual A

Columbines, such as this Aquilegia Swan violet and white, look fragile but are tolerant of many environments. 7KH\ WKULYH DQG Ă RZHU profusely when planted in full or partial shade.

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fter living in the North, I miss some of my favorite spring and summer plants since I now live in coastal Mississippi. Columbine is one I PLVV IRU , ORYH WKH ZD\ WKH Ă RZHUV VHHP to be suspended in midair by the slender VWHPV DV LI Ă RDWLQJ RQ D JHQWOH EUHH]H In my opinion, you need a columbine regardless of where you garden. Columbine can grow in Mississippi if you treat it as an annual because of our shortish springs and long, hot summers. Columbine foliage is attached to the plant by long petioles. The trifoliate, bluegreen foliage reminds me of the lacy fronds RI PDLGHQKDLU IHUQV %XW LW LV WKH Ă RZHUV that have the greatest landscape impact. 7KH Ă RZHUV DUH LQWHUHVWLQJ ZLWK FRORUV ranging from purple and blue to yellow, white, and red. Columbine bicolored varieties of red and white, red and yellow, and EOXH DQG ZKLWH DUH VSHFWDFXODU 7KH Ă RZHUV are usually slightly nodding. A fantastic series of columbine for Mississippi is the Swan, with its wide range

RI YLEUDQW ELFRORUHG à RZHUV 7KHVH plants are so good that our neighbors to the west named the Swan Columbine as Louisiana Super Plants in 2011. It’s best to plant smaller plants in the fall, but you can plant larger plants now for instant garden WOW. A notable feature of the columbine à RZHU LV WKH VSXU³UHVHPEOLQJ DQ HDgle’s claw—that is attached to each of WKH ÀYH SHWDOV 7KH\ DUH WKUXVW EDFNward and create a counterbalance that DOORZV WKH à RZHUV WR QRG DQG ERE ZLWK the slightest breeze. The spurs contain nectar used to attract pollinators. Though these plants look fragile, they really are tolerant of many environments. Columbine thrives and à RZHUV SURIXVHO\ ZKHQ SODQWHG LQ IXOO or partial shade. In my previous gardening experience, this plant likes good loamy to gravelly soil, and a rock garden is its favorite. Columbine is a reseeding perennial. In past years, columbine growing in my garden produced new seedlings each spring around the original plants. Reseeding is a nice trait since columbine should be treated as a shortlived perennial. I am sure there were times the original plant did not make it through the winter, but it produced so many seedlings that it did not matter. The extra plants are easily thinned, and when you give them away, you’ll make friends in the neighborhood. Most of the columbine plants, such as the Swan series available at garden centers, are improved hybrids. They have been selected WR GLVSOD\ WKH ELJJHVW DQG EULJKWHVW à RZers. However, there are several other columbine species that are landscape worthy. While plants may not be available at garden centers, you can easily grow them from seed sown in the fall. Check out the varieties available in the many seed catalogs gardeners get this time of year. Not only does the columbine add beauty and interest to the landscape; it also attracts wildlife. The brightly colored spurs DUH ÀOOHG ZLWK VZHHW QHFWDU DQG DUH PDJQHWV IRU KXPPLQJELUGV DQG EXWWHUà LHV If you are looking for a new plant to try out in your landscape this year, consider one of the many beautiful colors of columbine. I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.

$ QRWDEOH IHDWXUH RI WKH FROXPELQH Ă RZHU VXFK as this Aquilegia Swan yellow, is the spur attached WR HDFK RI WKH Ă€YH SHWDOV WKDW UHVHPEOHV DQ HDJOH¡V claw. These create a counterbalance that allows the Ă RZHUV WR QRG DQG ERE ZLWK WKH VOLJKWHVW EUHH]H

Columnist Dr. Gary R. Bachman is an assistant extension professor of horticulture at Mississippi State University’s Coastal Research and Extension Center in Biloxi, Mississippi.

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THE social SCENE BROOKHAVEN, MS

Krewe of Ceres Charity Ball

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n February 21, 2015, the Krewe of Ceres held its annual Charity Ball in Brookhaven, Mississippi. Guests enjoyed an entertaining evening with this year’s royalty. Photos by Jennifer Calhoun and Bill Perkins

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Laura Lee Lewis and Dennis Valentine Reese Lott and Allyssa Craig Cindy Smith and Vonda Laird Isabel Reed and Betsy Belk Cathy Franck and Patti Moak Rachel Powell and Lissa Boerner Ellen and Don Doty Betty Ann Perkins and Susie Fitzsimmons Bill Perkins and Betsy Belk Ellen and Sally Doty Jess and Lori Carter Morgan Walker and Ellen Doty Paige Weathersby and Lavelle Sullivan Beverly and Richard Case

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17 Bill Perkins, Rachel Powell, and Stevie Fitzsimmons 18 Mary Dee Corkern, Virgie and Paul Brazeale 19 Carol Massengill, Karen Massengill Hickman, and Bob Massengill 20 Caroline Compton, Meghan Dupre, and Eleanor Valentine Hartzog 21 Dena Jackson, Susie Fitzsimmons, and Jami Steen 22 Patti Moak with Amy and Mac Baker 23 Brad Boerner with Ladonna and Jim Helveston 24 Carrie Reid Sones, Paula and Richard Rushing 25 Front—Corey Case, Olivia Sullivan, Sam Arnold, and Jackson Carter; middle—Ellen Doty, Alex Craig, Alex Calhoun, Caroleah Brister, Kaitlyn Rhoads, Queen Laura Lee Lewis, King Dennis Valentine, Carey Crozier, Maggie Redd, Shelby Crosby, Rheagan Welch, and Jessie Claire Henning; back—Seth Rushing, Peyton Clark, Ryan Kimble, Jacob Ross, Houston Case, Ryan Thibodeaux, Gage Posey, Will Hickman, Walker Franck, and Austin Said

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Bluffs & Bayous { May 2015 { Page 25

THE social SCENE BROOKHAVEN, MS

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Jake Sessums and Jami Steen Nic and Betsy Belk Sally Doty and Joe Cox Sloane Smith and Rachel Powell Trent Hartzog and Paxton King Woody Breeland and Mike Taylor Amy Becker and Fred Price Anne Houston Cupit and Eleanor Valentine Hartzog Betsy Belk and Anna Smith Betty Ann Perkins and Becky Doty Jeremy and Devon Winborne Joe and Sudie Brewer Karen Sullivan and Stan Winborne

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THE social SCENE

BROOKHAVEN, MS

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39 Charlene Elliot, Shannon and Jeff Clark 40 Dorothy LeBlanc, Jason Snider, and Lori Carter 41 Rick Taylor, Amy Valentine, and John Crestia 42 Val Hall, Kathy Behan, and Cindy Smith 43 Shannon Miller, Celine Craig, Amy Mason, and Lisa Shann 44 Josh and Sloane Smith 45 Dena and Robbie Jackson, Margaret and Danny Smith, and Stacy Walker 46 Katie and Chris Nations 47 Shannon and Jeff Clark with Kathy Phillips 48 Erin King, Hannah Culpepper, Eleanor Valentine Hartzog, and Anne Houston Cupit 49 Sam Hall, Trevor Tindall, and Val and Jim Hall

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Bluffs & Bayous { May 2015 { Page 27

Visiting the Recreated Coast

I

t’s been ten years since Hurricane Katrina demolished the Mississippi Gulf Coast and left it in shambles. Luckily, a story that could have concluded with an abandoned coastline developed into a story of encouraging hard work that rebuilt, refurbished, and recreated the Mississippi Gulf Coast. story by Jennie Guido • photos by Aimee Guido artistic design by T.G. McCary

Page 28 { May 2015 { Bluffs & Bayous

In +XUULFDQH .DWULQD 7KH 0LVVLVVLSSL 6WRU\, James Patterson Smith, a history professor at the Gulf Coast campus of the University of Southern Mississippi, explained the colossal storm as “a 12-hour blast of wind and water from the northeast quadrant of Hurricane Katrina [that] destroyed hundreds of thousands of homes and businesses across the Gulf South.� With stories from the survivors who stayed behind and those who returned to the mayhem, Smith’s account breaks down the storm as it made its way through the Gulf to its landfall and what followed in the coming days. While visiting the coast earlier this year, I met individuals who have “weathered the storm,� labored through the reconstruction of their lives, and begun again – more determined than ever. What the people of the Mississippi Gulf Coast have been able to endure and overcome is something that we should all applaud and bring back to our own communities. Smith said, “The story of Hurricane Katrina in Mississippi is the story of unexpected strengths in unexpected people in the midst of the greatest natural disaster in American history. [ . . . ] The heroes of this saga are the local people and local leaders whose responses in a terrible time of testing bear witness to the compassion, strength, and creativity that arose in coastal Mississippians of all colors, creeds, and classes. Theirs is a story of resilience and perseverance in the face of overwhelming destruction.� One such story is that of Nikki Moon, who in February 2003 purchased the Bay Town Inn along North Beach Boulevard in Bay St. Louis. The Inn was located in a breathtaking home built in the late 1800s and turned into a bedand-breakfast in the 1990s. Moon had been a frequent visitor to the Bay from her home in New Orleans and always wanted to open an inn nearby. When the opportunity to purchase the Bay Town Inn came along, Moon jumped at the chance, packed up, and moved to the Bay. “Even though it was before my retirement, I thought that if I didn’t do this, I would regret it forever,� Moon remembered. “Even though I had no idea how to run a bed-and-breakfast with my high heels and painted nails, I was ready for the challenge. I decided to relax, enjoy the Inn, and get to know these amazing people staying and working with me.� Over the next few years, Moon worked to develop the Inn and LQ -XQH SXUFKDVHG D KRPH ORFDWHG EHKLQG LW IRU ZHHNO\ DQG monthly rentals. With a summer full of promise, Moon voyaged into another season on the Bay. When Hurricane Katrina began approaching, Moon along with six other individuals decided to stay behind and weather the storm. “This house had weathered so many storms before, and we thought the storm was headed for New Orleans from all of the reports we had heard,� Moon said. “Where the house is located, we are twenty-four feet above sea level; the original house was six-feet off of the ground and had twelve-foot ceilings; we just assumed we would be well protected from the storm surge.�

When the water began to seep into the house that infamous 0RQGD\ PRUQLQJ RI $XJXVW HYHU\RQH KHDGHG XSVWDLUV and into a room in the back. One of the men walked to the front of the house to see what was happening when the wall of water came UXVKLQJ LQWR WKH %D\ ´7KH Ă€UVW Ă RRU ZDV FRPSOHWHO\ ZDVKHG away, and we were all sent into opposite directions,â€? Moon told me. “Three of us dog-paddled to a nearby oak tree and clung to it for the next three or four hours while the storm hit. I had my dog underneath me on the branch, and we would duck when the waves would come in.â€? Once the storm passed, Moon and the others made their way to a still-standing house across the street, broke in, and took a breath. The Inn and the home she had just purchased were completely demolished, and the roads were gone with pieces of pavement littering the yard where her house once stood. By Tuesday morning, Moon remembers that different church groups had DOUHDG\ DUULYHG WR KHOS Ă€QG DQ\WKLQJ worth recovering or anyone who needed rescuing. On Wednesday, Moon and a few others borrowed a truck and traveled to Jackson. After a few days back home with her father in St. Louis, Missouri, Moon and her brother ventured back down to the Bay to start working on her property. When I asked her where she started with a clean-up that size, she said, “It was hard. You just spend hours digging through the mud WR VHH ZKDW \RX FDQ Ă€QG , GLG Ă€QG D few things. I found a Christmas apron, a platter, just crazy things. It was as if the wind picked them up and just carefully placed them back down untouched.â€? After months of clean-up, Moon was contacted by the Convention and Visitors Bureau in New Orleans where she had previously worked and was asked to come back to New Orleans for a job. “Considering what had happened to the Inn, I took the chance and moved back to New Orleans for six years,â€? Moon said. “I kept coming back to the Bay just to see what was happening and who was rebuilding. Slowly, I could feel that it was coming back; and I had never let go of the property because I knew that one day it could happen again and I could rebuild.â€? After applying for a grant that allowed for funding if an individual was planning to build a business on the beach and employ locals, in October 2012, Moon received the money to begin the process of rebuilding the Bay Town Inn. In September 2013, the Bay Town Inn reopened for business. ´%HOLHYH LW RU QRW P\ Ă€UVW SD\LQJ FXVWRPHUV ZKHQ , UHRSHQHG ZHUH P\ ODVW SD\LQJ FXVWRPHUV LQ 7KH\ KHDUG , ZDV UHRSHQing and wanted to be here,â€? Moon shared. “I have had so many people come back that had stayed with me before the storm and wanted to come and see what I had done with the place.â€? More and more travelers are returning to the Mississippi Gulf Coast and it is easy to see why. The spirit of the people along the Coast has remained staunch both during and after the storm. The efforts to rebuild and renew what had once been a retreat along a unique stretch of beach in Mississippi have escalated and spread throughout the area.

“I kept coming EDFN ĘžR WKH %D\ MXVW ĘžR VHH ZKDW ZDV KDSSHQLQJ DQG ZKR ZDV rebuilding. 6ORZO\ , FRXOG IHHO WKDW LW ZDV coming back...â€?

Bluffs & Bayous { May 2015 { Page 29

Further down Highway 90 in Biloxi, Mississippi, the Palace Casino Resort’s casino was completely destroyed during the hurricane. However, the hotel on the property withstood the VWRUP DQG UHRSHQHG LQ 'HFHPEHU IRU WKRVH ZDQWLQJ WR come back and see the Mississippi Gulf Coast and its recovery efforts. Since its in-depth renovation in 2011, the resort has been KRPH WR Ă€QH GLQLQJ H[SHULHQFHV D VSD UHWUHDW DQG WKH 3UHVHUYH Golf Club that entertain its many guests of the only smoke-free casino on the Coast. Lisa Quirch, the public relations manager for the resort, explains, “The Mississippi Gulf Coast offers a variety of fun and exciting activities from the beach to casinos, museums, and some RI WKH EHVW IRRG \RX¡OO Ă€QG DQ\ZKHUH HVSHFLDOO\ WKH *XOI IUHVK seafood. The casual, ‘feels-like-home’ atmosphere keeps visitors returning year after year.â€? Speaking of the fantastic food along the Mississippi Gulf Coast, I can honestly say that every meal was perfection. From

home in Gulfport in need of a good bit of work and realized it was the perfect spot to move the restaurant from its original location in Long Beach. After months of Daddy reworking the old columns, Momma planning the beautiful interior, and our amazing contactor adding a commercial kitchen, the new location of The Chimneys opened in the spring of 2000.â€? Five years later, the charming home that had been transformed LQWR D WUDQTXLO ORFDWLRQ IRU Ă€QH GLQLQJ ZDV ZDVKHG DZD\ ZLWK WKH hurricane. “I was actually living in California at the time and was watching on TV as the storm rolled in,â€? Sophie remembered. “I was on the phone with a former employee who was watching surveillance of the coast when she saw the location of the restaurant and said, ‘It’s gone.’ â€? “I made my way back to Mississippi and with my parents and brother traveled back to the coast to see the damage,â€? Nord said. “To say that we were in shock is an understatement. Over the next several weeks, Mom and Dad stayed in Natchez and Covington,

Staying at the Bay Town Inn in Bay St. Louis allows for a relaxing stay ÀOOHG ZLWK 0LVVLVVLSSL KRVSLWDOLW\

scrumptious breakfast at the Bay Town Inn to delectable meatball poboys at Trapani’s up the road on the Bay, every shrimp, steak, and crab cake was divinely delicious and supremely savory. For example, in Gulfport, Mississippi, with a view “to die for,â€? our meal at The Chimneys was delightfully spirited and top notch. As a family business, The Chimneys is run by Watson and Sophie Nord, a brother-sister duo who took over the daily duties from their parents after rebuilding from Hurricane Katrina. “Our grandparents, Sallie and Basil Ballard, and two other couples started the Cock of the Walk in Natchez and began franchising,â€? Sophie shared. “When they chose to open a restaurant on the coast, our parents offered to move down and run it. Eventually, WKH\ VDZ WKDW FDWĂ€VK PLJKW QRW EH WKH EHVW Ă€W IRU WKH 0LVVLVVLSSL Gulf Coast; and so they decided to reopen with a new menu and name, The Chimneys. In 1998, our parents saw this beautiful old Page 30 { May 2015 { Bluffs & Bayous

Louisiana. They would come over during the day and try to collect water-logged belongings from our house as well as pieces of the restaurant that were spread throughout the neighborhood. Being away from everyone I loved was too hard, and I moved back home the following June.â€? After some time, the Nords decided to rebuild The Chimneys. “It seems like we met with the architect and vendors for forHYHU WU\LQJ WR Ă€QDOL]H RXU SODQV EXW LW ZDV FRPSOHWHO\ ZRUWK HYHU\ FKRLFH ZH PDGH :H Ă€QDOO\ RSHQHG IRU GLQQHU RQ 1HZ Year’s Eve in 2009,â€? Sophie remembered. “It was such a special night!â€? With its new building and its expansive front porch and lawn overlooking the Gulf, The Chimneys has been a vital part of the Gulf Coast renaissance. After the passing of her mother in 2012 and her father’s retirement, Nord explained that she and her brother have enjoyed

savor the coast Royal reds at Half Shell Oyster House in Biloxi

)UHVK ÀVK WDFRV DW The Chimneys in Gulfport

Traditional meatball po boy at 7UDSDQL·V LQ %D\ St. Louis

Perfectly grilled burger at 200 North Beach in Bay St. Louis

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Breakfast-in-bed at Bay Town Inn in Bay St. Louis

Bluffs & Bayous { May 2015 { Page 31

experience the coast Take in the Ohr2·.HHIH 0XVHXP RI Art for a little culture from around the state.

Stop by The French Potager in Bay St. Louis for everything from IUHVK ÁRZHUV WR antiques for your home.

The Maritime and Seafood Industry Museum will teach you a thing or two DERXW ÀVKLQJ WKH bays and the Gulf.

Wanting to splurge on your vacation? Visit Traditional -HZHOHUV LQ %LOR[L·V Edgewater Mall for something special.

Visiting the Walter Anderson Museum of Art in Ocean Springs will take you back in time.

Shop Bay Life in Bay St. Louis, and take the coastal aesthetic home with you.

Page 32 { May 2015 { Bluffs & Bayous

taking what her parents worked so hard to create and bringing it into the newly redeveloped Mississippi Gulf Coast. “My mom always wanted a Sunday Brunch at The Chimneys, and we have added one that is pretty amazing. It is a busy day that many guests enjoy, thanks to our wonderful chef, Chris Garrett,â€? Sophie said. “I can honestly say there isn’t one menu item – lunch, brunch, or GLQQHU ² WKDW , GRQ¡W ORYH )URP RXU JXPER DQG Ă€VK WDFRV DW OXQFK to the daily specials of Gulf-fresh seafood, we have many popular items among the locals.â€? Visitors as well concur with accolades about the scrumptious fare at The Chimneys. So, what makes the Mississippi Gulf Coast so special? Sophie remarked, “Growing up around the water makes it really hard to live somewhere without it; but honestly, what makes the coast the most unique is the people. When I was much younger, Momma told me that it doesn’t matter where you are; it matters who you’re with. She was so right! We’ve got some pretty wonderful, resilient, hard-working, and happy people down here.â€? It is a fact that the people of the Mississippi Gulf Coast are hard at work recreating an experience for not only the locals but also the many tourists seeking a retreat along Mississippi’s coastline. Whether you are going to the coast for a comforting place to lay your head or tempt your palate; for the casinos and a fantastic nightlife; or for the sand, water sports, museums, and the shopping experience—all representative of the many lifetimes of hard work in establishing and reestablishing a thriving economy and Gulf tradition— experiencing Mississippi’s Coast will amaze you. In Biloxi alone, there are two fantastic museums that must be added to your list of things to do while on the Coast. Spending a day at the Maritime and Seafood Industry Museum will showcase the work it takes to maintain a business that is crucial to the wellbeing of many locals on the coast and throughout the American South. Be sure to ask for a guided tour so you can learn every detail of how this profession has evolved over the years to become the tradition and economic boon it is today. Another must-see museum is the Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art. This venue offers an array of local and southern artists’ works displayed in impressive architectural surroundings. Curator Barbara Ross explained, “The predecessor of the Ohr-O’Keefe Museum EHJDQ LQ D EXLOGLQJ LQ GRZQWRZQ %LOR[L LQ ,W EHFDPH part of an experimental satellite program of the Jackson-based Mississippi Museum of Art, underwritten by the Lila Wallace/ Reader’s Digest Foundation. Over time, the facility became the George E. Ohr Arts and Cultural Center and began its collection of George Ohr pottery. “Because of its popularity, in 1996 the small museum began to seek a larger location. The Jeremiah O’Keefe family donated WKH Ă€UVW RQH PLOOLRQ GROODUV WR EHJLQ WKH QHZ PXVHXP ZKLFK

was renamed in honor of the late Mrs. O’Keefe. The need to make a dramatic architectural statement for the location led to architect Frank Gehry, who designed this breathtaking estabOLVKPHQW &RQVWUXFWLRQ EHJDQ LQ DQG LQ +XUULFDQH Katrina destroyed the new museum construction as well as the George Ohr Arts and Cultural Center. Construction began again, and the ribbon cutting for Phase I of the new museum was held in 2010.â€? Over the past few years, several pods have been constructed and opened along with an observation deck with a panorama of the Biloxi coastline. “Visitors enjoy the feeling of separate, but not isolated, experiences. The Gehry-designed buildings and reconstructed home of Pleasant Reed (a man born into slavery) creDWH D VLQJOH XQLĂ€HG YLVLRQ FRQQHFWHG E\ DQ H[SDQVLYH EULFN SODza and majestic Live Oak trees. It is a relaxing environment for all ages and interests to enjoy the landscape and the inspiring art and architecture,â€? Ross shared. Another aspect of the Coast, one that will make the marathon shopper in all of us happy, is the amazing amount of retail therapy available there. In Biloxi, Traditional Jewelers located in the Edgewater Mall will entice you to splurge a little, or even a lot, during your trip. Owned and operated by David Capton, Kevin Sumrall, and Jesse Bridges, Traditional Jewelers offers everything from gorgeous diamond and gemstone jewelry to more casual pieces to add to your collection. “What sets Traditional Jewelers apart from other jewelry stores,â€? according to Bridges, “is our focus on family, traditions, integrity, and quality products. We’re not here to make a quick sale, but we are here to help our guests get what they want and what they feel is best for them regardless of how much or how little it may cost. We’re a familyowned-and-operated store; and we want each and every customer to get the service, respect, and quality products that we would expect ourselves.â€? With three other locations throughout the state, Traditional Jewelers in Biloxi would love to introduce you to its family of excellence. Further over on the coast in Bay St. Louis, there is an eclectic community of shops and stores that offer just about everything you could possibly need. New to the Bay, Bay Life Gifts is owned and operated by Natchez, Mississippi, native Janice Guido. *XLGR VKDUHG ´<RX ZLOO Ă€QG %D\ /LIH LQ WKH QHZ )UHQFK Settlement building at Main Street and North Beach Boulevard with cute shops including the Bonner Collection, George’s Girls Fashion, and more. Bay Life has gifts for everything that we love in life: home and garden to regional, vintage, and modern art.â€? After living and working in the New Orleans hotel industry for twenty-eight years, Guido relocated to the Bay in order to leave WKH FRUSRUDWH VWUHVV EHKLQG DQG ´IXOĂ€OO WKH GUHDP RI RZQLQJ >KHU@ own retail store.â€?

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Bluffs & Bayous { May 2015 { Page 33

“I knew I wanted a store on the coast of my home state of Mississippi,â€? she said. “I travelled the world with my hotel career, but I never forgot my roots. There were so many people I met in my travels who said they had never met anyone from Mississippi. I felt like an ambassador for our State so many times; and now, I can do the same with my customers as they shop here in the Bay.â€? While Bay Life in general has a modern DQG FRQWHPSRUDU\ Ă DLU IXUWKHU XS 0DLQ Street is The French Potager, which affords it own eclectic shopping experience. Owner Martha Whitney Butler explained the name of the business to me: “My parents used the name, French Potager, for their anWLTXH EXVLQHVV ,W UHĂ HFWV D ORYH IRU DOO WKLQJV French as well as a love for gardening and Ă RZHUV $ potager is a kitchen garden from ZKLFK \RX SLFN \RXU HGLEOH KHUEV DQG Ă RZers. The shop is an antiques boutique housing several antiques vendors as well as my Ă RUDO GHVLJQ EXVLQHVV Âľ For those of us who love to “pick,â€? The French Potager is a virtual retail heavHQ ORFDWHG DORQJ WKH &RDVW ´7KH Ă RZHUV and the antiques commune in such harmony. I’m always fascinated in everything that walks through the door. Each dealer

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has their own style and taste, allowing for the shop to attract all kinds of shoppers IURP MXQNHUV WR WKRVH ZKR SUHIHU WKH Ă€QHU things. The house itself holds a rich history and is a quaint little cottage, perfect for my interesting little shop,â€? Butler shared. A native of Alabama, Butler grew up shadowing her parents who were in the antiques business. However, she found her home in the Bay and began her own shop during the area’s re-growth following Katrina. “I’ve never lived among so many artists and creative people. Growing up in a ‘one-art-gallery town,’ I always felt like I was a little different. Here, in this place apart, different is the norm; and creative personalities are a constant. I’ve never loved living anywhere this much,â€? Butler remarked. “Its beauty is so persistent, and the people are the most resilient people I’ve ever encountered. I always like to say that when someone here invites you to their home for a visit, they really mean it. It’s not just some comment they make to sound polite or hospitable. Bay St. Louis is a generous town full of the most wonderful people I’ve ever encountered. “Not a day goes by without something wonderful happening,â€? Butler continued.

“In fact, there used to be a sign downtown (before Katrina) that read, ‘Something wonderful is always happening.’ This town is swimming in creativity, and new ideas become tangible within seconds of conceptualization. It’s a place full of proactive people who encourage their peers to do great things while remaining open to innovation. It’s truly the place for someone bursting at the seams with ideas, like me.â€? When asked when to come to the coast, Ross of the Ohr-O’Keefe Museum eloquently painted, “I like the Mississippi Gulf Coast best in the spring with the cool, but not hot, weather; new growth of green leaves on trees; blooming dogwood and azaleas; and fresh smell in the air. I like the feeling of renewal that overtakes me in the spring. It is a pleasant time of year to sit on the museum plaza and enjoy the view, which is enhanced by the prevalence of shrimp boats, sailboats, and schooners on the water.â€? To immerse yourself in the spirited renaissance of the Gulf Coast, pack those bags and head south to experience a coastline that will feel like home, refresh your VHQVHV LQ LQĂ€QLWH ZD\V DQG UHQHZ \RXU faith in fellow Mississippians.

V

enture east of the Mississippi to Hattiesburg this summer during FestivalSouth. Less than 100 miles from the Mississippi Gulf Coast, Jackson, New Orleans, or Mobile, Hattiesburg draws cultural tourists from across the nation and around the globe for this unique event. FestivalSouth is Mississippi’s only multi-week, multi-genre arts festival offering both free and ticketed events. The festival schedule features over ninety events including classical, jazz, country, and gospel music, as well as The Arts Market that brings local craftsmen, artisans, and tourists together under one roof to experience unique art and sculpture exhibits from local talent. There will be classical and contemporary dance events and Artie Events for kids. Two new events in this \HDU¡V IHVWLYDO DUH WKH )HVWLYDO6RXWK )LOP ([SR DQG )HVWLYDO . This year’s featured artist is Jeremy Thomley, sponsored by the Hattiesburg Art Council and the Hattiesburg Alliance for Public Art. Tomley’s “Anthemâ€? series exhibition will open at 2GG )HOORZV *DOOHU\ RQ )URQW 6WUHHW EHJLQQLQJ -XQH The exhibit is a multi-year collection of sculptures that depict Thomley’s life-long struggle with Cystic Fibrosis. One work,

blown-glass lungs enclosed in metal rib bars, manifests the frailty and value of his lungs and their imprisonment by this disease. Ben Watts, FestivalSouth Arts Events Coordinator, explains, “Running concurrently will be a wonderful art show, presented by the Hattiesburg Art Council at the Hattiesburg Cultural Center.â€? Rebekah Stark Johnson, HAC Executive Director, has procured a show entitled “The Cadenza,â€? featuring works by a husband and wife duo—Jacqueline Dee Parker, a mixed-media artist and poet, and Dennis Parker, cellist and sculptor—who are both professors at Louisiana State University. Watts also welcomes the participation of the inaugural outdoor sculpture competition and exhibition hosted by Hattiesburg Alliance IRU 3XEOLF $UW $V SDUW RI WKLV YHQXH Ă€YH ZRUNV ZLOO EH LQVWDOOHG DW various sites in the Hattiesburg Downtown District where they will remain on exhibit for a year. For more information, visit www.festivalsouth.org. Bluffs & Bayous { May 2015 { Page 35

Downtown Vicksburg

Revitalization and the Living is Easy Vicksburg, Mississippi, rests in a bend along the Mississippi River. Her steep hills and VWUHHWV RI ROG EULFN UHà HFW WKH FXUYHV DQG WXUQV RI WKDW ULYHU 2YHU WKH SDVW VHYHUDO \HDUV downtown Vicksburg has seen some exciting revitalization; and Tim Cantwell, one who loves this river town, has contributed to its downtown rebirth. What’s a man like Tim Cantwell from Pasadena, California, doing in Vicksburg, Mississippi? Simply put, he is man of vision who has honed the core of his experience in redevelopment and has had Mississippi under his skin since childhood. Cantwell spent his formative years during the summers visiting his maternal grandparents in Jackson, Mississippi. While not spending time in Vicksburg during those years, he did pass through the historic river town as his grandfather took KLP ÀVKLQJ WR DUHD ODNHV VXUURXQGLQJ :DUUHQ &RXQW\ /DWHU DV DQ DGXOW DQG WKLUW\ ÀYH \HDUV DJR ZKLOH RQ D ÀVKLQJ WULS LQ WKH DUHD KH SXUFKDVHG D IHZ ORFDO DSDUWments and, together with partners in California, built the 134-unit Park Residence at Page 36 { May 2015 { Bluffs & Bayous

“The Mississippi River is a spectacular wonder of the world, and I think Vicksburg has forgotten about the river. I want all of us to embrace the river and to bring everyone back to a grand appreciation of what the river really means.� story by Cheryl Rinehart photos courtesy of The Lofts

Tim Cantwell

Bluffs & Bayous { May 2015 { Page 37

Bienville. Since then, he has purchased the Vic Arnold ten-unit apartment building near The Old Courthouse Museum in downtown Vicksburg. However, his real love was The First National Bank building on the corner of Clay and Washington Streets. Well over twenty years ago, he began a dialogue about this building’s future that has become a reality; and the gem now has new life as The Lofts at The First National. Page 38 { May 2015 { Bluffs & Bayous

A building on the National Register of Historic Places, The Lofts was once a hub of activity for downtown Vicksburg. Perched on a corner in the heart of Vicksburg’s bustling business district, this building holds sentimental memories for many Vicksburg natives. The additional development of its rooftop into the 10 South bar and grill offers tenants, locals, and guests a breathtaking place to dine and enjoy the Mississippi River. “I fell in love with the view,â€? said Cantwell. “The Mississippi River is a spectacular wonder of the world, and I think Vicksburg has forgotten about the river. I want all of us to embrace the river and to bring everyone back to a grand appreciation of what the river really means.â€? The Loft apartments tout luxury living with inspiring views. 6HYHQ Ă RRUV RI RSXOHQW ORIW VW\OH apartments are available as studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom spaces. Some are furnished for extended-stay tenants while others are unfurnished for longterm lodgers. With fully equipped kitchens, eight-foot windows, and VROLG VXUIDFH ZRRG Ă RRULQJ WKH top-tier dĂŠcor and amenities in the heart of downtown are a ‘must’ for corporate stays. Opening in May, the rooftop restaurant, 10 South, is a partnership between Cantwell and Jay Parmegiani, chef of the famous Roca restaurant located at Vicksburg Country Club. The casual dining menu and atmosphere feature another treat as well. The spectacular scene from the tenth Ă RRU DIIRUGV D YDULHW\ RI YLHZVÂł to the west, the Yazoo Canal with Louisiana across the river; to the east, the Old Courthouse Museum and downtown historic church steeples; to the south, the Mississippi River Bridge and Delta Point Bend; and to the north, the Port of Vicksburg, Fort Hill, and historic downtown Vicksburg. Cheers to the rebirth and repurpose of this cornerstone in downtown Vicksburg! For more information on 10 South and the luxury apartments, visit www.loftsatĂ€UVWQDWLRQDO FRP

Bluffs & Bayous { May 2015 { Page 39

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Bluffs & Bayous { May 2015 { Page 43

DOWN HOME DAYCATIONS

story and photos by Michael Roboski, Jr.

Try a “Daycation� in Vicksburg A

s a native of small-town Mississippi, I am tempted to dream of big cities, bright lights, and yearround entertainment. What I have learned, though, is that if you just stop and look around a little closer to KRPH \RX FDQ Ă€QG D ZHDOWK RI KLVWRU\ HQWHUWDLQPHQW DQG enough good food to last you a lifetime. This new series of articles, entitled “Down Home Daycations,â€? will chronicle day trips to towns dotting the South as I get to experience them on days off. Hopefully, this encourages you to take a second look at the familiar world around you and embark on an adventure. 7KLV Ă€UVW HQWU\ LV GHGLFDWHG WR D WRZQ RQFH GHVFULEHG E\ Abraham Lincoln as “the key to the Southâ€?—Vicksburg, 0LVVLVVLSSL )LUVW VHWWOHG E\ (XURSHDQV LQ WKH WRZQ ZDVQ¡W LQFRUSRUDWHG XQWLO D FHQWXU\ ODWHU LQ 9LFNVEXUJ did not become a household name until the second half of the American Civil War when a siege by Union forces lasted forty-seven days, ending when the Confederates surrendered on July 4, 1863. Today, Vicksburg is a hub for history buffs, antique collectors, and foodies. I’m a little bit of all three,

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Washington Street in downtown, historic Vicksburg is full of character and appeal for locals and tourists alike.

and here are my tips on how you should spend your daycation in Vicksburg, Mississippi Assuming you leave early to mid-morning to get there, you’ll probably start feeling a bit hungry. After all, you need a good bit RI HQHUJ\ WR WUDYHUVH WKH KLOOV WKURXJKRXW 9LFNVEXUJ )RU \RXU Ă€UVW stop, head south of town down the Blues Highway, Highway 61, to a little roadside shack called The Tomato Place. Featured in numerous travel shows, periodical write-ups, and over 230 Instagram tags, The Tomato Place is a mandatory stop for some legendary local food. Walking up to the main building, you pass through an odd variety of antique trinkets, bottle trees, brightly painted walls, and hundreds of locally grown vegetables and fruits. Open up the fridge doors, pick out a smoothie to accompany your lunch (I usually get the Strawberry Fields, the Orangeade, or the Blackberry.) and then head on inside to order. If this is your first visit, I strongly recommend the BLT. It is life changing. Even if you’re not a tomatoes fan, just give the sandwich one more chance to change your mind. It may have been the sevenyear taste-bud changes, but I believe it was the BLT sandwich that converted me to a tomatoes fan after spending my first seventeen years of life hating them passionately. $IWHU \RX¡YH Ă€OOHG \RXU EHOO\ LW¡V WLPH WR H[SORUH WKH GDUN MHZel of Vicksburg, the Vicksburg National Military Park. Located on Clay Street, this park exists as a memorial to one of the bloodiest battles of the Civil War. The park consists of twenty miles of trenches and earthworks, a sixteen-mile-long tour road, a twelveand-a-half-mile walking trail, over 1,300 markers and marble monuments, 144 cannons, two antebellum homes, and a restored ironclad warship. :KHQ Ă€UVW DUULYLQJ LQ WKH SDUN WDNH D PRPHQW WR ZDON LQVLGH the welcome center and see all of the memorabilia and information on the park. Go ahead and take this moment to download the “Civil War: Vicksburgâ€? app on your phone, for it is an all-inclusive guide through the park and provides articles and videos on various stops along the way. Once you pass through the arch that once straddled Clay Street, you enter the Union lines and begin to see that assembly of markers, statues, and monuments mentioned earlier. If you are pressed for time, you can skip out after the Union loop; but I suggest pressing on because the confederate side boasts dazzling earthworks, breathtaking views of the Mighty Mississippi River, and the haunting remains of the U.S.S. Cairo. The Cairo SURQRXQFHG .D\ 5RZ ZDV WKH Ă€UVW 8QLWHG 6WDWHV VKLS LQ KLVWRU\ to be sunk by a torpedo; it was resurrected from the Yazoo River a century later in 1964. The national cemetery is another must-see while driving through WKH SDUN 7KLV LV WKH Ă€QDO UHVWLQJ SODFH IRU WKH 8QLRQ VROGLHUV DQG commemorates lives lost in every other war since. The Confederate soldiers are buried nearby in Cedar Hill Cemetery off of Mission 66. The drive also hosts a number of small stops that many people seem to take for granted. You could spend days exploring the park and still not see everything; but this is a daycation, and we have a lot more to see. Next, we’ll head downtown to reenergize. Find a parking spot on old-brick-paved Washington Street and head into Highway 61 Coffeehouse. Like The Tomato Place, this coffee shop has a welcoming vibe and is chock full of dĂŠcor that could be appreciated both by a twelve-year-old and his or her grandparent. The staff is friendly and the coffee is fairly priced. While you’re waiting or afWHU \RX¡YH Ă€QLVKHG \RXU GULQN EH VXUH WR ZDON XSVWDLUV DQG FKHFN out the local art for sale in The Attic Gallery.

A quick burst of caffeine will help fuel your daycation in Vicksburg.

The Tomato Place along Highway 61 makes for a perfect lunch stop.

Be sure to indulge in your history lesson for the day.

Bluffs & Bayous { May 2015 { Page 45

Now that you’re wired, feel free to roam the downtown area and check out some of the shops. Just two doors down from the coffee shop is Biedenharn Coca-Cola Museum celebrating Vicksburg’s connection to the world-famous soft drink. It was here in 1894 that Coke was bottled for WKH Ă€UVW WLPH ,I \RX ZDON D OLWWOH ELW IXUWKHU QRUWK \RX¡OO Ă€QG D EUDQG QHZ PXVHum dedicated to the Mississippi River. It is open only Wednesday through Sunday. Unfortunately, I happened to be in town on a Tuesday, so I can’t tell you what all is in it; however, even if it is closed, check out the outdoor exhibit downhill. It showcases a nifty, scaled-down model of the Mississippi 5LYHU LWV R[ERZ ODNHV DQG Ă RRG SODLQV WKDW you can walk out on and explore. It really puts the winding bends, curves, and size of the river into perspective. Just next door to this museum is a quaint little white building called Levee Street Marketplace. Do yourself a favor and walk inside to check out all of the local art, antiquities, and just some other cool looking stuff. Because the Marketplace rents out certain square footage to individuals, \RX QHYHU NQRZ ZKDW \RX¡OO Ă€QG MXVW D IHZ steps away; and for the locals, this means that the goods are regularly exchanged. For just a few bucks, I picked up an antique Gillette safety razor from 1918 that I restored to like-new condition. Depending on how your time is going at this point, you can either make one more stop or go on to dinner. Assuming you’re up for a bit more grandeur and history, make your way back up the hill and visit The Old Courthouse Museum. This museum not only covers Vicksburg’s history in the Civil War but also its history from Native-American times to the Modern Era. With your day winding down, it’s time to decide on what to do for dinner. One of my favorite dinner destinations is Rusty’s Riverfront Grill at the end of Washington. If you are wanting the full-on, gourmet Southern experience and don’t mind paying a bit more to get it, grab a seat in Rusty’s and enjoy the deep-fried delicacies that make your stomach smile. $V P\ Ă€UVW LQ WKLV VHULHV FRQFOXGHV , hope it will help you appreciate the rich history and eclectic venues close around you. So gather your friends, rally your family, and go on a daycation adventure. Michael J. Roboski is a Natchez native and enWKXVLDVW RI 6RXWKHUQ SOHDVDQWULHV JRRG IRRG D cold pint, interesting stories, and the occasional adventure.

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Bluffs & Bayous { May 2015 { Page 47

THE social SCENE MCCOMB, MS

Celebrating the Crane’s Anniversary udith and Robert Crane of Liberty, Mississippi, celebrated their fiftieth anniversary on March 13, 2015. A celebration was held in their honor on Saturday, March 14, 2015, at the home of Connie and Billy Ashmore in McComb, Mississippi. Family, friends, and co-workers enjoyed a festive spread; and the home was decorated with gold balloons, red roses, and original wedding photos. Also on display was Mrs. Crane’s original wedding gown, which had been hand sewn and beaded by her mother. The couple was toasted with heart-warming speeches of appreciation from their children. Photos by Elise Parker

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Judith and Robert Crane Angela and Debra Robins Imogene Leake and Carol Peck Paul and Shannon Smith Don and Wilda Geddy Lotte Footh and Gabe Lee Paul and Shannon Jones Mitsie Crane, Judith and Robert Crane, and Jerry Crane 9 Emma Stewart, Jo Ann Carruth, and Martha Whittington

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THE social SCENE

MCCOMB, MS

10 Michael and Amy Clark, Sahvanna Clark, and Alyssa and Bryan Ashmore 11 Alisha Lee, Amy Clark, and Alyssa Ashmore 12 Jacob Jones, David Stewart, and Brad Ashmore

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Bluffs & Bayous { May 2015 { Page 49

THE social SCENE FERRIDAY, LA

Ferriday Garden Club Style Show n March 18, 2015, the members of the Ferriday Garden Club hosted a style show and luncheon at the Arcade Theatre in Ferriday, Louisiana. Guests enjoyed a wine reception and spring fashions during a tasty lunch.

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1 Joy Irvin, Sherrill Sasser, Lena Bateman, and Nancy C. King 2 Peggy June and Susanne Routon 3 Joline Killen and Mary Beth Whitehead 4 Suzanne Vegas and Gail Waters 5 Jimmie Little and Susan Harris 6 Jane Vaughan and Jane Plummer 7 Doris Taylor, Virginia Beard Crow, and Lue Reynolds

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8 Ellen Yates, Beth Tucker, Belle Zerby, Mary Beth Whitehead, and Brenda Zerby 9 Jean Miller and Martha Perkins 10 Anne Womack, Valieta Routon, Janie Cater, and Mickie Brown

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Bluffs & Bayous { May 2015 { Page 51

THE social SCENE VICKSBURG, MS

Mock Book Signing nn Mock of Tallahassee, Florida, signed her recently released novel, The Union of the North and the South, on March 26, 2015, at Keystone Antique Furnishings in Vicksburg, Mississippi. Guests chatted with the author while enjoying Southern cheese straws and fresh lemonade. Ann talked about her trips on a Mississippi steamboat and excursions to river towns including Vicksburg and Natchez, Mississippi, which inspired her to write the novel.

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1 Vivian Monistere, Christin Matthews, and Ann Mock 2 Dave and Ann Mock 3 Jane Flowers and Christin Matthews 4 Ann Mock and Kimberly Smith 5 Christin Matthews and Kimberly Smith 6 Vivian Monistere, Diane Derivaux Kemp, and Sharon Webber 7 Frances Koury, Ann Mock, and Nancy Lee

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THE social SCENE NATCHEZ, MS

NGC Royal Court Brunch losing out the Natchez Garden Club’s royal reign, the generals and maids of the 2015 Court hosted a brunch at The Castle on the grounds of Dunleith Historic Inn on Saturday, April 4, 2015, in Natchez, Mississippi. Honoring Queen Margaret Ward and King Burne Sharp, brunch guests included the NGC Executive Board, the Historic Tableaux Committee, and family members of the royal court.

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1 Front—Max Mason and Halle Grace Janette; middle—Dylan Sandidge, Katie Steele, Beth Fortenbery, Abbey Ashmore, Burne Sharp, Margaret Ward, Sarah Grace Jordan, and Andrew Moroney; back— Shelby Stokes, Joseph McClathy, Daniel Dunaway, Hudson Laird, and Alan Tipton 2 Ginny and Penny Daggett 3 Brenda, Sandra, and Shelby Stokes 4 Sharon Sharp, Curtis Moroney, Chandler and Lou Ann Jordan with Roanne and Mark Tipton 5 Bill and Jo Ann Herrington, Lainus Fortenbery, and Sharon Sharp 6 George, Ivan, Margaret, and Ann Ward 7 Pam Steele, Amy Dunaway, and Annette Moroney 8 Fayla Guedon, Kristin Jordan, Lauren Middleton, Katherine Callon, and Hannah Mason

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Bluffs & Bayous { May 2015 { Page 53

THE social SCENE SUMMIT, MS

Smokin’ on the Tracks uring the weekend of April 10 and 11, 2015, the community of Summit, Mississippi, celebrated with its annual Smokin’ on the Tracks BBQ cook off and fundraiser. Local bands and musicians entertained the crowds on this beautiful spring Saturday. The event benefits several community organizations throughout Pike County. Photos by Bill Perkins

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Bobby Quimby and Lisa Lott Jackie and Aubrey Matthews Ray Lowery and Mae McCrae Sandra Nettler and Ben Sills Edgar Zapata Mercedes Ricks and Gina Spalitta Dana Lancaster with Brant and Lacey Bennett Ronny and Carol Whittington Carol Hardin Tiffany and Price Pittman with Pickett and Johna Adams Faith Stauss, Peggy McNeil, Molly Mandel, and Libby Hewitt

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Bluffs & Bayous { May 2015 { Page 55

THE social SCENE NATCHEZ, MS

Baby Shower for Ross baby shower was held for Corley Anne Sessions Ross on March 28, 2015, at Pinecrest Plantation, the home of Mary Lees Edwards Wilson, in Natchez, Mississippi. With Ross expecting a baby girl, the decor throughout the home featured spring bursts of pink, white, DQG JUHHQ ÀRUDO DUUDQJHPHQWV 2Q WKH NLWFKHQ island a vintage wicker baby buggy was the base RI DQ H[WUDRUGLQDU\ ÀRUDO DUUDQJHPHQW *XHVW enjoyed pink lemonade and a light lunch during the party.

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1 Gay Drake, Mary Lees Wilson, Lisa Mayers, Cortney Robertson, Corley Anne Ross, and Cheryl Rinehart 2 Bobbye Drane, Janet Sullivan, Donna Sessions, Vance Custer, Disa Taunton, and Sara Receconi 3 Corley Anne Sessions Ross 4 Jeannie Sanguinetti and Mary Frances Sessions 5 Cortney Robertson and Corley Anne Ross 6 Donna Sessions, Corley Anne Sessions Ross, and Mary Frances Sessions 7 Corley Anne Ross, Gigi Johnson, and Harper Johnson

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8 Crystal Sawyer, Betsy Sawyer, Corley Anne Ross, Jamie McClain, and Jane Greer 9 Donna Sessions, Kay Mills, Corley Anne Ross, and Pat Anderson 10 Agnes Holloway, Corley Anne Ross, Donna Sessions, and Frances Cothren 11 Lynn Leckie, Corley Anne Ross, Agnes Holloway, and Frances Cothren

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Bluffs & Bayous { May 2015 { Page 57

THE social SCENE MCCOMB, MS

Open House with Southwest Insurance n the afternoon of April 7, 2015, members of the local Chamber of Commerce and the community gathered at Southwest Insurance in McComb, Mississippi, to celebrate forty-five years of business. Jesse Frohn and his family welcomed guests to meet his staff at the event.

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Wayne Frazier and Dick Frohn Jesse Frohn and Susan Dowdy Kelli Brock and India Warshauer Mary Grace, Jesse, and Richard Frohn Julie Everett, Sybil Waters, and Debra Frohn 6 Kelli Brock, Catherine Sanders, and Joan Burt 7 Darlene Finch, Jesse Frohn, and Carolyn Cook

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Bluffs & Bayous { May 2015 { Page 59

CAPITAL CITY BEAT

story by MarySusan Asters photos by Leigh Anne Adams

T’Beaux’s Crawfish S

pringtime in Mississippi is highly anticipated. We Southerners don’t care for long winters and grey skies; it’s not our way. Sunshine and heat waves are in our blood. We long for green pastures, buttercups on the side of WKH KLJKZD\ DQG FUDZĂ€VK VHDVRQ ,Q IDFW FUDZĂ€VK VHDVRQ LV RQH RI WKH 6RXWK¡V EHVW seasons; and we anxiously wait for the Ă€UVW KDUYHVW WR UROO LQ VR ZH FDQ JHW RXU FUDZĂ€VK Ă€[ RQ From the folks who carefully use their hands to peel ’em to the guys that use their teeth and suck the heads, there’s no wrong ZD\ WR HQMR\ FUDZĂ€VK , KDYH IULHQGV ZKR start eating them in February because when they’re in, warm or not, you grab a beer and you peel tails. It’s what we do in the South; besides, it gives us hope that warm weather is indeed coming! Since I’m not originally from central 0LVVLVVLSSL RQH RI P\ Ă€UVW TXHVWLRQV ZKHQ VSULQJWLPH KLW ZDV ZKHUH WR JHW FUDZĂ€VK The answer I got from folks in this area was almost unanimous—T’Beaux’s in Clinton. So, what do I do each spring? I KHDG WR 7¡%HDX[¡V &UDZĂ€VK LQ &OLQWRQ Vicksburg, or Byram, Mississippi. Page 60 { May 2015 { Bluffs & Bayous

7¡%HDX[¡V LV WUXH /RXLVLDQD FUDZĂ€VK eating in Mississippi. Plus, the staff there serves up other Cajun delicacies like killer gumbo and shrimp plates, which keep me appeased during the chillier months of the year. I’ve yet to have a dish there that didn’t warrant a rave review.

T’Beaux’s got its start well over twenty years ago when Tommy Ray and his wife Mary moved to Baton Rouge for work with the railroad. Tommy was one of many ‘Tommys’ working on the railroad, so the Cajuns coined the nickname T’Beaux for him.

Trust me; T’Beaux’s has been in the business over twenty years for a reason! 7¡%HDX[¡V &UDZĂ€VK LQ &OLQWRQ 941 Highway 80 East 7¡%HDX[¡V &UDZĂ€VK LQ %\UDP 5852 Terry Road 7¡%HDX[¡V &UDZĂ€VK LQ 9LFNVEXUJ 1625 Culkin Road MarySusan Asters, her husband, and two dogs live in Jackson, Mississippi; and she works for the Mississippi Chapter of the March of Dimes. She loves all things local and never misses a chance for dessert.

When the Rays later moved back to Vicksburg after raising their sons in Cajun country, T’Beaux needed something to do to earn a living. He realized no one was VHOOLQJ FUDZĂ€VK VDZ D QHHG DQG RSHQHG XS a stand on Highway 61 North in Vicksburg. 7¡%HDX[¡V &UDZĂ€VK 6WDQG ZDV D KXJH VXFcess and served up thousands of pounds of FUDZĂ€VK HDFK VHDVRQ :KHQ WKHLU VRQ .HOO\ Ă€QLVKHG FROOHJH KH ZHQW LQWR WKH IDPLO\ FUDZĂ€VKLQ¡ EXVLness. He worked with his dad in Vicksburg and then started bringing a trailer to Clinton in 2000. The folks in Clinton and Jackson ZHUH WKULOOHG ZLWK WKH FUDZĂ€VK DGGLWLRQ DQG KHOSHG KLP ULYDO KLV GDG LQ FUDZĂ€VK sales. When he saw how well their business went over from the trailer, he decided they needed a year-round restaurant. That’s how 7¡%HDX[¡V &UDZĂ€VK LQ &OLQWRQ ZDV ERUQ With picnic tables in the front, it offers a welcoming atmosphere and perfect place to grab a bite on a spring or summer afternoon. Kelly later added to the menu, keeping true to his Cajun roots. T’Beaux’s now serves gumbo, crab legs, shrimp, and oysters—just to name a few of the additions. And, of course, they’ve got fresh, boiled FUDZĂ€VK MXVW ZDLWLQJ WR EH SHHOHG A crowd favorite in Clinton is their “Cooler Special,â€? and it’s about as Southern as you get. You just show up at the stand with an empty cooler, and T’Beaux’s staff ZLOO VWRFN LW IXOO RI FUDZĂ€VK FRUQ SRWDWRHV DQG VDXVDJH IRU D Ă DW UDWH 2QO\ LQ WKH 6RXWK FDQ \RX Ă€QG D FUDZĂ€VK FRROHU special; the only thing missing is the Pabst Blue Ribbon beer. So, whether you carefully peel the tail, suck the head, or just use \RXU WHHWK \RX¡YH JRW WR JHW \RXU FUDZĂ€VK Ă€[ ,W¡V WKH 6RXWKHUQ WKLQJ WR GR

T’Beaux’s also makes its own seasoning using Tommy’s original recipe, which JLYHV WKHLU FUDZĂ€VK D XQLTXHO\ &DMXQ WDVWH that keeps locals coming back all season long. The seasoning can be purchased pre-packaged at the original T’Beaux’s in Vicksburg. So, folks, next time you’ve got DQ LWFK IRU FUDZĂ€VK JLYH RQH RI WKH WKUHH 7¡%HDX[¡V &UDZĂ€VK ORFDOHV D WU\ IRU VRPH &DMXQ FUDZĂ€VK HDWLQJ WKDW FDQ¡W EH EHDW

Bluffs & Bayous { May 2015 { Page 61

MAY

premier events BROOKHAVEN, MISSISSIPPI May 9 Barkfest Brookhaven, MS On May 9, 2015, the Brookhaven Animal Rescue League will KRVW WKHLU DQQXDO %DUNIHVW RQ WKH 0LVVLVVLSSL 6FKRRO RI $UWV· FDPSXV 7KLV IXQ ÀOOHG HYHQW LV IRU WKH ZKROH IDPLO\ LQFOXGLQJ D . live entertainment featuring Stone Water, Brookminster Dog Show, ERRWKV IRRG JDPHV IRU NLGV DQG WKHLU GRJV FRVWXPH FRQWHVW GRJ DGRSWLRQV DQG PXFK PRUH $OO SURFHHGV ZLOO JR WR WKH %URRNKDYHQ Animal Rescue League. For more information, call (601)695-1987, (601)757-1057, or visit www.barl.net.

HATTIESBURG, MISSISSIPPI June 6 – 20 FestivalSouth Hattiesburg, MS )HVWLYDO6RXWK D PXOWL ZHHN DQG 0LVVLVVLSSL·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·V :HEE :LOGHU +XE &LW\ 3OD\HUV IHDWXUHG DUWLVW -HUHP\ 7KRPOH\ 7KH +XE 'DQFH &ROOHFWLYH WKH )HVWLYDO . DQG VR PXFK PRUH :UDSSLQJ XS WKH IHVWLYDO LV WKH )HVWLYDO )LQDOH ´6\PSKRQ\ ,GRO µ IHDWXULQJ ÀQDOLVWV IURP $PHULFDQ ,GRO ,QGLYLGXDO WLFNHWV JR RQ VDOH May 15, 2015. Do not miss this exciting cultural experience in Mississippi! For season tickets, festival circle passes, and event schedule, call (800)844-8425, (601)226-5418, or visit festivalsouth.org.

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premier events MAY NATCHEZ, MISSISSIPPI May 2 – 23 Natchez Festival of Music Natchez, MS The 2015 Natchez Music Festival of Music season will kick off WKH PRQWK RQ 0D\ ZLWK D UHG FDUSHW UHFHSWLRQ DW WKH +LVWRULF 1DWFKH] )RXQGDWLRQ IROORZLQJ A Night At The Oscars II at the 0DUJDUHW 0DUWLQ 3HUIRUPLQJ $UWV &HQWHU 'LUHFWHG E\ -D\ 'HDQ WKH PRQWK LV Ă€OOHG ZLWK PXVLF IURP SLDQLVW -RQDWKDQ /HYLQ 5RJHUV DQG +DPPHUVWHLQ¡V Cabaret %HVW RI WKH 0LVVLVVLSSL %OXHV ZLWK 5REHUW -RKQVRQ 1DWFKH] ORFDO &DWKHULQH %XOO DQG 7KH +DUPRQLH 8QLYHUVHOOH (QVHPEOH WULEXWHV WR -RKQ $OH[DQGHU D 0LVVLVVLSSL QDWLYH DQG 0HWURSROLWDQ 2SHUD 7HQRU *LOEHUW DQG 6XOOLYDQ¡V The Pirates of Penzance %OXHV DQG %UHZV &UDIW %HHU 7DVWLQJ 'DQFLQJ 7KURXJK WKH 'HFDGHV ZLWK 7KH /DUU\ 3DQHOOD -D]] 4XLQWHW 3XFFLQL¡V 2SHUD 0DGDPD %XWWHUĂ \ DQG PRUH ([SHULHQFH WKH ULFK FXOWXUH RI 1DWFKH] WKURXJK WKLV IHVWLYDO ZKLOH YLVLWLQJ YDULRXV ORFDWLRQV VXFK DV 0DUJDUHW 0DUWLQ 3HUIRUPLQJ $UWV &HQWHU 7ULQLW\ (SLVFRSDO &KXUFK 7KH 7RZHUV :DYHUO\ 3ODQWDWLRQ DQG PXFK PRUH For a complete schedule of events and ticket prices, call (601)446-6631 or visit www.natchezfestvalofmusic.com.

Vicksburg, Mississippi VICKSBURG, MISSISSIPPI

May 7 $ &KRFRODWH $IIDLU Vicksburg, MS 7KH 6RXWKHUQ &XOWXUDO +HULWDJH )RXQGDWLRQ SUHVHQWV WKH VHYHQWK DQQXDO &KRFRODWH $IIDLU RQ 7KXUVGD\ 0D\ LQ WKH KLVWRULF 6RXWKHUQ &XOWXUDO +HULWDJH $XGLWRULXP 7KLV WDVW\ HYHQW ZLOO LQFOXGH DQ HYHQLQJ ZLWK FKRFRODWH GHVVHUWV GULQNV DQG HQWHUWDLQPHQW SURYLGHG E\ +DOH %DVNLQ KHU -D]] $GGLFWLRQ 7LFNHWV DUH SHU SHUVRQ IRU )RXQGDWLRQ PHPEHUV DQG IRU QRQ PHPEHUV 'HVVHUWV DUH SURYLGHG E\ 9LFNVEXUJ¡V YHU\ RZQ $PHULVWDU &DVLQR +RWHO &HGDU *URYH 0DQVLRQ 5HVWDXUDQW 0DLQ 6WUHHW 0DUNHW 3DOPHUWUHH &DWHULQJ 5RFD 5RFN\ 0RXQWDLQ &KRFRODWH )DFWRU\ DQG PRUH 6SDFH LV OLPLWHG DQG DQ DGYDQFHG WLFNHW SXUFKDVH LV UHTXLUHG For more information or to purchase tickets, call (601)631-2297 or email info@southernculture.org.

Bluffs & Bayous { May 2015 { Page 63

MAY Louisiana Up & Coming! $/(;$1'5,$ Through May 2 Alex River Fete 'RZQWRZQ $OH[DQGULD 9 am – 9 pm www.alexandriapinevillela.com Through May 23 'LUW\ 6RXWK 0XJ &RPSHWLWLRQ IHDWXULQJ 7RP &ROHPDQ 5LYHU 2DNV $UW &HQWHU $25 artist entry fee www.riveroaksartcenter.com

May 1 /LWWOH :DOWHU %LUWKGD\ 3DUW\ 7LSLWLQD·V 0XVLF &R RS 312 Desoto St 5 – 7 pm www.alexandriapinevillela.com May 2 Louisiana Dragon Boat Races 'RZQWRZQ $OH[DQGULD 8 am www.themuseum.org May 8 Bike Night 'RZQWRZQ $OH[DQGULD 6 – 11 pm www.alexandriapineville.com May 9 6HFRQG 6DWXUGD\ $OH[DQGULD 0XVHXP RI $UW 12 am – 3 pm www.themuseum.org

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Louisiana Up & Coming! MAY May 9 5DSLGHV 6\PSKRQ\ 2UFKHVWUD &RQFHUW presents Beyond Borders &RXJKOLQ 6DXQGHUV 3HUIRUPLQJ $UWV &HQWHU 7:30 pm / $25 (318)442-9709 ZZZ UDSLGHVV\PSKRQ\ RUJ May 10 0RWKHU·V 'D\ -D]] %UXQFK Bistro on the Bayou 11 am / $36 per person / Under 10: $14.95 (318)445-7574 May 16 0HQ :KR &RRN 0HQ :KR 0L[ 5LYHU 2DNV 6TXDUH $UW &HQWHU 6: 30 – 9:30 pm $50 / $60 at door (318)473-2670 www.riveroaksartcenter.com May 21 $FRXVWLF &RQFHUW 6HULHV $OH[DQGULD 0XVHXP RI $UW 6 – 8:30 pm / Free for members / $4 non-members (318)443-3458 / www.themuseum.org May 23 Little Walter Music Festival $OH[DQGULD $PSKLWKHDWUH 11 am (800)551-9546 www.alexandriapinevillela.com May 29 :LOG 1LJKW RI $UW $OH[DQGULD =RR 7 pm www.thealexandriazoo.com May 31 6W 0DU\·V *UHFR %RZO IHDWXULQJ &KHI -RKQ )ROVH 7KH *HP RI 'RZQWRZQ $OH[DQGULD 12 pm / $100 (318)445-6443 ZZZ VW PDU\VDOH[DQGULD RUJ

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MAY Louisiana Up & Coming! %$721 528*( Through May 10 Boeing, Boeing Theatre Baton Rouge Thurs – Sat: 7:30 pm / Sun & May 2: 2 pm $25 www.theatrebr.org May 7 – 9 Louisiana International Film Festival &LQHPDUN 3HUNLQV 5RDG 12 am – 11:59 pm / $100 all access pass ZZZ OLÀOPIHVW RUJ

May 7 – 10 Disney on Ice presents Frozen %DWRQ 5RXJH 5LYHU &HQWHU Time & prices vary www.brrivercenter.com May 8 +RW $UW &RRO 1LJKWV 0LG &LW\ 0HUFKDQW $UW +RS Downtown Baton Rouge 6 – 10 pm ZZZ PLGFLW\PHUFKDQWV RUJ May 9 .LG·V +RQRUV 2UFKHVWUD 6SULQJ &RQFHUW &KULVWLDQ /LIH )HOORZVKLS 6DQFWXDU\ 2037 Quail Drive 4 pm (225)922-4656 May 9 6\PSKRQ\ ,GRO IHDWXULQJ /DNLVKD -RQHV 0DWW *LUDXG +DOH\ 6FDUQDWR LSU Rural Life Museum 6:30 pm / $20 / Under 10: $10 (225)383-0500 / www.tickets.brso.org May 9 Baton Rouge Symphony Pops LSU Rural Life Museum 7:30 – 10:30 pm (225)763-3990 / www.rurallife.lsu.edu

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Louisiana Up & Coming! MAY June 4 5LFN .HOOH\ &RQFRUGLD 3DULVK /LEUDU\·V )HUULGD\ %UDQFK 10:15 – 11 am ZZZ FRQFRUGLDOLEUDU\ RUJ

May 15 – 24 7KHDWUH %DWRQ 5RXJH 7KH /68 School of Music presents Master Class LSU Recital Hall Thurs - Sat: 7:30 pm / Sun: 2 pm $24 / $19 Student www.theatrebr.org

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May 22 7KH :RUOG 7RXU ZLWK 7D\ORU 6ZLIW 7LJHU 6WDGLXP 4 – 10 pm Purchase tickets in advance ZZZ WD\ORUVZLIW FRP

May 16 Bite the Bullet: A Look at &LYLO :DU 0HGLFLQH &HQWHQDU\ 6WDWH +LVWRULFDO 6LWH 3 – 5 pm (225)634-7925 / www.crt.state.la.us %5($8; %5,'*( 02152( :(67 02152( May 1 - 3 %UHDX[ %ULGJH &UDZÀVK )HVWLYDO Fri 4 – 12 pm / Sat 10 - 12 am / Sun 9 am – 4 pm www.bbcrawfest.com )(55,'$<

May 23 – 24 %D\RX &RXQWU\ 6XSHUIHVW 7LJHU 6WDGLXP Purchase tickets in advance ZZZ ED\RXFRXQWU\VXSHUIHVW FRP May 23 .,'' .H\QRWHV SUHVHQWV $UPHG )RUFHV -D]] 866 .LGG 9HWHUDQV 0HPRULDO 0XVHXP 9 am – 5 pm (225)342-1942 / www.usskidd.com

May 20 /RXLVLDQD &RXQWU\ 0XVLF 2SU\ IHDWXULQJ *HQH .LQJ %DQG $UFDGH 7KHDWUH 7 pm / $10 www.deltamusicmuseum.com

Through May 3 /RXLVLDQD &UDZÀVK *DWRUIHVW ,NH +DPLOWRQ ([SR &HQWHU $UHQD $10 (318)325-9160 ZZZ ODFUDZÀVKJDWRUIHVW FRP May 2 Monroe Symphony Orchestra Springtime Finale 0RQURH &LYLF &HQWHU 7 pm / $20 (318)329-2225 ZZZ PRQURHV\PSKRQ\RUFKHVWUD FRP

May 21 )HUULGD\ 5RWDU\ 5HFHSWLRQ &RQFRUGLD 3DULVK /LEUDU\ 6 – 8 pm ZZZ FRQGFRUGLDOLEUDU\ RUJ

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MAY Louisiana Up & Coming! May 8 – 10, 15 - 17 Strauss Theatre presents Promises, Promises Strauss Theatre 7 pm / Sun: 2 pm (318)323-6681 www.strausstheatrecenter.com May 9 0RWKHU·V 'D\ %OXHVIHVW 0RQURH &LYLF &HQWHU 7 pm (318)329-222 5/ www.ci.monroe.la.us May 30 /RXLVLDQD )RRG 0XVLF )HVWLYDO River Market 10 am – 4 pm (318)807-9985 www.monroe-westmonroe.org 1(: 25/($16

Through May 3 1HZ 2UOHDQV -D]] +HULWDJH )HVWLYDO 7KH )DLU *URXQGV $58 advance / $70 at the gate / $5 children www.noJazzFest.com May 2 Junior League of New Orleans presents .LWFKHQ 7RXU Throughout New Orleans 10 am – 4 pm / Prices vary (504)891-5845 / www.jlno.org May 20 – 23 1HZ 2UOHDQV :LQH )RRG ([SHULHQFH French Quarter www.nowfe.com May 30 - 31 Oyster Festival :ROGHQEHUJ 3DUN ZZZ QHZRUOHDQVR\VWHUIHVWLYDO RUJ

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Louisiana Up & Coming! MAY 3257 $//(1 Through August 16 :KHQ WKH &DQQRQV )HOO 6LOHQW 6HVTXLFHQWHQQLDO RI WKH (QG RI WKH &LYLO :DU West Baton Rouge Museum Tues – Sat: 10 am – 4:30 pm / Sun: 2 – 5 pm $4 www.westbatonrougemuseum.org May 2 Blacksmithing Workshop featuring *DU\ +DUW West Baton Rouge Museum 10 am - 12 pm www.westbatonrougemuseum.org May 9 – July 12 Neal Family Blues West Baton Rouge Museum Tues – Sat: 10 am – 4:30 pm / Sun: 2 – 5 pm $4 www.westbatonrougemuseum.org May 16 (YHQLQJ %OXHV +RQRUV %DQTXHW West Baton Rouge Museum www.westbatonrougemuseum.org 67 )5$1&,69,//( Through May 2 0HUULOO /\QFK *ROI 2SHQ EHQHÀWLQJ 0DU\ %LUG 3HUNLQV 2XU /DG\ RI WKH /DNH &DQFHU &HQWHU 7KH %OXIIV *ROI 5HVRUW 5DQG\ +DGGDG www.thebluffs.com May 1 Picnic in the Park Parker Park 5:30 – 7:30 pm www.wearewestfel.org May 2 6SULQJ *DUGHQ 6WUROO 7KURXJKRXW (DVW :HVW Feliciana Parish 1 – 5 pm / $20 (225)635-3614 www.stfrancisvillespringstroll.org

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MAY Louisiana Up & Coming! May 2 150th $QQLYHUVDU\ RI WKH &LYLO :DU 7KH :DU (QGV $XGXERQ 6WDWH +LVWRULF 6LWH 10 am – 4 pm (225)635-3739 / www.stfrancisville.us May 30 7KH +DQG WKDW +HDOV $XGXERQ 6WDWH +LVWRULFDO 6LWH 10 am – 4 pm (225)635-3739 / www.crt.state.la.us June 5 – 7 The 2QG $QQXDO :DONHU 3HUF\ :HHNHQG Throughout St. Francisville $135 all-inclusive / Individual event prices vary ZZZ ZDONHUSHUF\ZHHNHQG RUJ

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VIDALIA May 1 5HOD\ )RU /LIH RI $GDPV &RXQW\ 0LVV /RX &RQFRUGLD 5HFUHDWLRQ &HQWHU 4 pm www.vidaliaconventioncenter.com

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0D\ 9LGDOLD /DQGLQJ )OHD 0DUNHW 9LGDOLD /DQGLQJ 8 am – 6 pm www.visitnatchez.org May 15 - 16 &UXLVLQJ 2Q 7KH 5LYHU &DU 6KRZ 9LGDOLD 5LYHU )URQW $30 Registration fee / Free (318)336-8265 ZZZ ULYHUFLW\EDGER\] FRP

June 4 *DUGHQLQJ 7LSV ,QWHULRU 'HVLJQ /LIHVW\OH 5HFLSHV featuring James Farmer: Southern Living Magazine 9LGDOLD &RQIHUHQFH &RQYHQWLRQ &HQWHU 6 pm ZZZ FRQFRUGLDOLEUDU\ RUJ

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May 1 – 3, 7 - 10 Brookhaven Little Theatre presents Annie, Jr. The Haven Theatre 7:30 pm / May 3 & 10: 2 pm $10 (601)669-1878 www.brookhavenlittletheatre.com May 1 - 3, 7 - 10 %URRNKDYHQ 5HJLRQDO $UWV *XLOG Silent Auction The Haven Theatre (601)669-1878 / www.haventheatre.org May 1 – 3 06 *UDQG 3UL[ %LNH 5DFH 7KURXJKRXW /LQFROQ &RXQW\ www.thebikecrossing.wix.com May 4 Senior Literary Showcase Mississippi School of the Arts 6 pm www.msa.k12.ms.us 0D\ 6HQLRU 9LVXDO $UWV ([KLELWV (QRFKV *DOOHU\ 6 pm www.msa.k12.ms.us May 6 – 10 0LVVLVVLSSL 6SULQJ )HVW 7RXU /LQFROQ &RXQW\ &LYLF &HQWHU www.lincolnciviccenter.com May 8 7KH &KRUDOH &RQFHUW Mississippi School of the Arts 7 pm www.msa.k12.ms.us

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MAY Mississippi Up & Coming! May 9 Barkfest Mississippi School of the Arts 9am – 3 pm (601)695-1987 / (601)757-1057 www.barl.net May 9 %URRNKDYHQ 5HJLRQDO $UWV *XLOG KRVWV Spring Art Walk Downtown Brookhaven 10 am – 2 pm 1DQF\ +DQNV 0\HUV PRGHVW\DQQ#DRO FRP May 15 .LQJ·V 'DXJKWHUV )RXQGDWLRQ *ROI Tournament %URRNKDYHQ &RXQWU\ &OXE 8 am – 5 pm $500 4-man scramble / $100 single player www.kdmc.org

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May 21 )ULHQGV RI /LQFROQ &RXQW\ /LEUDU\ SUHVHQW ´7DNLQJ WKH 0\VWHU\ RXW RI 0HGLFDUH 6XSSOHPHQWVµ /XQFK /HDUQ 6HULHV /LQFROQ &RXQW\ /LEUDU\ 11:30 am – 1 pm 1DQF\ +DQNV 0\HUV PRGHVW\DQQ#DRO FRP May 21 )ULHQGV RI /LQFROQ &RXQW\ /LEUDU\ Theatre present Patton /LQFROQ &RXQW\ /LEUDU\ 1:30 pm 1DQF\ +DQNV 0\HUV PRGHVW\DQQ#DRO com May 21 Brookhaven Regional Arts Monthly Meeting /HPHQDGL $UWV ,QWHULRUV 5:30 pm 1DQF\ +DQNV 0\HUV PRGHVW\DQQ#DRO FRP

May 23 – 24 7KH 7XFNHU &KDULW\ *ROI 7RXUQDPHQW EHQHÀWLQJ )ROGV RI +RQRU %URRNKDYHQ &RXQWU\ &OXE Josh Smith / (601)757-5534 May 29 - 30 +RJ :LOG %%4 &RRN 2II 5DLO 5RDG 3DUN www.brookhavenchamber.org May 31 – June 5 6XPPHU $UWV &DPS Mississippi School of the Arts $395 Residential students / $195 Commuter students (601)823-1300 / www.msa.k12.ms.us

Mississippi Up & Coming! MAY &/(9(/$1' May 3 &LQFR GH 0D\R 3XE &UDZO 'RZQWRZQ &OHYHODQG www.keepclevelandboring.com May 16 Pour Mississippi Festival 3R· 0RQNH\·V -XNH -RLQW 1 – 11 pm www.keepclevelandboring.com

May 16 Pine Belt March for Babies Hattiesburg – Laurel Regional Airport 9 am (228)206-3430 www.hereshattiesburg.com June 6 – 20 FestivalSouth Downtown Hattiesburg www.festivalsouth.org -$&.621

+$77,(6%85* May 7 – 10 +DWWLHVEXUJ &LYLF /LJKWV 2SHUD presents Jesus Christ Superstar The Saenger 7:30 pm / Sun: 2 pm www.hattiesburgsaenger.com

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MAY Mississippi Up & Coming! May 2 6HHUVXFNHUV 6RPEUHURV 7KH &HGDUV 3 pm $40 / $50 in advance www.phoenixclubofjackson.com May 4 7DNH D 7DVW\ %LWH 2XW RI &ULPH +LJKODQG 9LOODJH 7 – 10 pm / $50 ZZZ WDVW\ELWHRXWRIFULPH FRP May 5 The American Heart Association hosts *R 5HG IRU :RPHQ /XQFKHRQ -DFNVRQ &RQYHQWLRQ &RPSOH[ 10:30 am / $100 (601)321-1209 www.heart.org/metrojacksongored May 9 6WUD\ $W +RPH $UW 0XVLF )HVWLYDO Smith Park 11 am – 9 pm www.visitjackson.com

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May 12 0XVLF LQ WKH &LW\ Mississippi Museum of Art 5:45 – 9 pm www.msmuseumart.org May 21 $UWV (DWV %HDWV Downtown Jackson 5 pm ZZZ ÀQGLWLQIRQGUHQ FRP May 21 6FUHHQ RQ WKH *UHHQ Mississippi Museum of Art 5:30 – 9 pm www.msmuseumart.org May 21 Museum After Hours Pop Up Mississippi Museum of Art 5:30 – 8 pm www.msmuseumart.org

May 26 – June 7 New Stage Theatre presents ,W $LQ·W 1RWKLQ· %XW 7KH %OXHV New Stage Theatre 7:30 pm / Sun: 2 pm www.newstagetheatre.com MADISON May 1 – 2 0DGLVRQ $QWLTXH 6KRZ 3UHYLHZ 3DUW\ 0DGLVRQ 6TXDUH &HQWHU IRU WKH $UWV $40 per couple / $25 per person www.aroundjackson.com 0&&20% May 9 0F&RPE $PWUDN 7UDLQ 'D\ The Depot 10 am – 2 pm :LQQLH +RZHOO trainmaster@mcrrmuseum.com

Mississippi Up & Coming! MAY May 9 3LNH &RXQW\ $UWV &RXQFLO SUHVHQWV Pop in the Park (GJHZRRG 3DUN 5 – 9 pm www.pikeinfo.com 0($'9,//( May 2 )UDQNOLQ &RXQW\ 7UDGH 'D\ 'RZQWRZQ 0HDGYLOOH . SHW FRQWHVW PXVLF à HD PDUNHW more 5KRQGD +XII 1$7&+(= May 2 – 23 Natchez Festival of Music Throughout Natchez Individual ticket & package prices vary (601)446-6631 www.natchezpilgrimage.com www.natchezfestivalofmusic.com

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May 17 The Servants Quartet &KXUFK RI *RG 10:30 – 11:30 pm www.visitnatchez.org

May 8 &UDZÀVK &RXQWGRZQ &DWKHGUDO 6FKRRO 6 – 10 pm / $100 per couple www.cathedralgreenwave.com

May 29 - 30 $GDPV &RXQW\ 6KHULII¡V 'HSXW\ 5RGHR The Wayne Johnson Arena 10 am – 2 pm

May 9 6HFRQG 6DWXUGD\ Downtown Natchez 6 – 8 pm www.visitnatchez.org

7KURXJK -XQH -XO\ )LW )XQ 6XPPHU 'D\ &DPSV &URVVSRLQW &KXUFK Sessions, times, & prices vary Susan DeBusk / (601)807-7689

May 12 5RDG 'DZJV 7RXU IHDWXULQJ 'DQ 0XOOHQ %HQ +RZODQG 9LF 6FKDIHU DQG Scott Stricklin Hotel Vue Restaurant 11:30 am / $25 Lou Ann Jordan / (601)870-1011 loucjordan@gmail.com

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June 5 – 7 &RPPXQLW\ &DQFHU 7HQQLV 7RXUQDPHQW 'XQFDQ 3DUN 7HQQLV &RXUWV Prices vary PHFDUWHUMU #\DKRR FRP ZZZ OLVWHQXS\DOO FRP 3$6&$*28/$ May 9 Live Oak Arts Festival Downtown Pascagoula 9 am – 4 pm (228)938-6604 / www.gulfcoast.org 5,'*(/$1' 7KURXJKRXW -XQH -XO\ &UHDWLYH &UDIW &DPS 7KH &UDIWVPHQ·V *XLOG RI 0LVVLVVLSSL (601)856-7546 www.craftsmensguildofms.org May 2 1DWFKH] 7UDFH &HQWXU\ 5LGH 2OG 7UDFH 3DUN 7:30 am / $35 - $45 ZZZ QDWFKH]FHQWXU\ULGH UDFHVRQOLQH FRP May 8 Pepsi Pops featuring Mississippi Symphony Orchestra Ross Barnett Reservoir 7:30 pm / $15 www.msorchestra.com

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May 9 0DJQROLD 0HOWGRZQ +DOI 0DUDWKRQ . . 5HQDLVVDQFH DW &RORQ\ 3DUNZD\ www.magnoliameltdown.com

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0D\ Blacksmithing Intensive with Lyle Wynn &UDIWVPHQ·V *XLOG RI 0LVVLVVLSSL 6 – 9 pm / $210 Jennifer Wolfe / (601)856-7546 www.craftsmensguildofms.org May 14 5LGJHODQG &KDPEHU RI &RPPHUFH *ROI 7RXUQDPHQW /DNH &DUROLQH *ROI &OXE 11 am – 5 pm (601)991-9996 / www.ridgelandms.org

June 4 – 7 (OYLV 3UHVOH\ )HVWLYDO Downtown Tupelo (662)841-659 8/ www.tupelo.net

6(1$72%,$ 9,&.6%85* 0D\ )LYH 6WDU &LW\ )HVW Downtown Senatobia Live music, arts, crafts, & more )LYHVWDUFLW\IHVW#JPDLO FRP (622)562-8755

0D\ Play-A-Day-In-May-Away 1900 Grove Street Times vary (601)636-2256 www.vicksburgcatholic.org

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Mississippi Up & Coming! MAY May 9 .LPP\ 0HOWRQ )RRG 'ULYH Throughout Vicksburg .LPP\0HOWRQ)RXQGDWLRQ#JPDLO FRP May 20 7KH 9LFNVEXUJ :DUUHQ &RXQW\ &KDPEHU RI &RPPHUFH /XQFKHRQ 9LFNVEXUJ &RQYHQWLRQ &HQWHU 12 pm (601)636-1012 www.vicksburgchamber.org May 23 Lake Fest (DJOH /DNH 10 am – 5 pm www.eaglelakematters.com May 23 Mississippi Symphony 2UFKHVWUD &RQFHUW Vicksburg National Military Park 7 – 9 pm (601)636-0583 / (601)831-6896 www.nps.gov/vick May 23 +ROW &ROOLHU 6DFUHG +DUS 6LQJLQJ 2OG &RXUW +RXVH 0XVHXP 10 am (601)636-0741/ www.oldcourthouse.org

May 25 0HPRULDO 'D\ 3DUDGH Washington Street 11 am www.downtownvicksburg.org 0D\ Magnolia State Fiber Festival 1160 Mulberry St (866)822-6338 / www.msff.net

:$6+,1*721 May 17 *UHDW %LJ <DP 3RWDWRHV 2OG 7LPH 0XVLF *DWKHULQJ )LGGOH &RQWHVW +LVWRULF -HIIHUVRQ &ROOHJH 9 am – 5 pm ZZZ ELJ\DPSRWDWRHV FRP :(6621

May 30 6WHYH <DWH -DPLH .RUQHJD\ 5HDGLQJ Lorelei Books 5 pm www.loreleibooks.com June 4 – 6 0LVV 0LVVLVVLSSL 2XWVWDQGLQJ Teen Pageant 9LFNVEXUJ &LW\ $XGLWRULXP 8 pm / Prices vary www.missmississippipageant.com June 7 – 13 Society of American Military (QJLQHHUV &DPS 1DWLRQDO *XDUG 8QLW Application required +HQU\ 'XODQH\ KHQU\ D GXODQH\#XVDFH DUP\ PLO

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Bluffs & Bayous { May 2015 { Page 77

On the River k On the River k On the River k On the River

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SOUTHERN SAMPLER

story by Alma M. Womack

For the Love of the Game H

enry Bordelon has been my friend since we were in high school. We were classmates, and he was one of WKH VWDUWLQJ ÀYH IRU WKH &ODVV $ %DVNHWEDOO State Champs in 1966, our senior year in high school. We still email each other occasionally; and Henry was the driving force behind beginning our annual class parties, bugging me until I agreed to get the party together. He has had a successful career with the Corps of Engineers; and later, he worked in a Corps-related job in New Orleans for several years following Katrina. When he asks me for a favor, I comply. At our almost annual class party in October, he asked me if I’d write a column one day about our baseball card collecting gang from back in the ’60s. I had written a couple of stories about those days; but since it has been a while, for Henry, I will do another. Major league baseball was our sport back in the ’60s, basketball was second,

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and football was rarely mentioned unless it was the Block Bears or LSU Tigers. Baseball was king. Period. The end. Our teams stayed fairly static from one year to the next. There were always the journeyman players who traveled from team to team, but the stars stayed with their teams pretty much their entire careers. Unless there was a major winter trade, we knew when spring started that Koufax would be with the Dodgers, Mays with the Giants, Aaron with the Braves, Musial with the Cardinals, Mantle with the Yankees, Kaline with the Tigers, Banks with the Cubs, and Killebrew with the Twins. That’s just the way it was. We all had our favorite teams, and we could argue all day on the merits of our individual favorites as well as on the superiority of our team. Henry, Frankie Schneider, and Janice “Corkey� White (the only other girl) were fans of the much-hated-by-everyone-else New York Yankees;

Kenneth Young, Jeff Foster, and Paul Riggs were Braves fans; Van Taliaferro was a St. Louis Cardinal; and Kenneth Foster, an LA Dodger. Me? I was a fan of the Chicago White Sox, and my favorite players were Luis Aparicio and Nellie Fox, the keystone combo of the team and the premier combo in the American League. Oh, those Yankee fans would argue that Kubek and Richardson of their team were the best shortstop and second baseman, but I had the statistics on my side. My FoxAparicio combo had the most Gold Gloves, WKH KLJKHVW ÀHOGLQJ SHUFHQWDJH DQG WKH IHZest errors of any of the others. Kubek had more power than Aparicio, but that didn’t count for much when it came to defense. My men were simply at the top of the game. These players were very real to us; and when they suffered a batting slump, we suffered, too. If our guys were picked to the All Star teams in July, well, it just showed that we knew what we were talking about all

along. And if one of the favorites was traded, it was the end of the world for a while. Case in point: I was listening to the news one night in early 1963 and heard these words that sent a chill to my heart: “White Sox trade All-Star shortstop Luis Aparicio to the Baltimore Orioles.â€? I couldn’t believe it—could not believe it. I cried and cried that night, just certain that I would never watch another White Sox game again as long as I lived. I can still hear Mama telling Daddy that one child was sick, two needed a good spanking, and one was crying over a baseball player. When your heart is broken, isn’t that what you do? The next morning, as luck would have it, our bus was late getting to school; so I had to walk into Algebra I class after everyone else was seated. In unison, three of my dastardly friends, Schneider, K. Foster, and Taliaferro, turned around and started laughing at me and saying, “They traded Aparicio to the Orioles; boy, he’s sorrier than I thought, going to the Orioles . . .â€? and on and on. I was ready to throw them all out of the second-story window to see if WKH\ FRXOG Ă \ OLNH DQ RULROH I did the only sensible thing to do: I beFDPH DQ 2ULROHV IDQ 7KH Ă€UVW FRXSOH RI years were tough. When yearbook time came around and people were writing nice notes in their friends’ yearbooks, this is what I got from those heathens: “Good luck to the Orioles; they sure need it,â€? and “best wishes to an ex-Oriole; after this year I don’t blame you for changing.â€? Sweet as sugar they were. I did get a little revenge in the 1966 World Series when the Orioles beat the LA (Kenneth Foster) Dodgers in four straight games. That meant the O’s beat Koufax and Drysdale, two of the best pitchers in baseball. The bad thing was that we were all in our freshman year of college and couldn’t get together to go over all the plays and statistics. But it was still good to be a fan of the World Champions even if I was stuck in a dorm room at Louisiana College. When it came to collecting baseball cards, Kenneth Foster had us all beat. He was a sharp trader, too; and Frankie Schneider and Henry both claimed that he stole what cards he couldn’t trade for. I don’t know that for a fact; but when Kenneth was going through my old cards at one of our class parties, Frankie, Henry, and I kept a sharp lookout, just in case. Of course, Kenneth was a good sport about it all, knowing how much we really love him.

At last year’s party, Kenneth said that he had sold his entire collection to a guy in New York for an amazing sum. The guy who bought the collection put some of the cards online to sell; and Kenneth said he saw his initials, KF, still on the cards. Frankie wanted to know how many of them had FS on them. Baseball and baseball cards bound us together back then and give us something good to laugh about now. The cards were serious business, so serious that one of my cousins to this day, introduces me to people as the “one who got my baseball cards.� Later on, I will be given a name. Some of us still follow the game, but I am not one of them. When all my favorite players retired, died in accidents, or just plain died, I gave it all up. I still have my baseball cards, and while I’ve given a few choice cards away (Hank Aaron, Brooks Robinson) to some special little boys, I have all the rest. I even have a few Mickey Mantles, which, unfortunately, have turned out to be the most valuable of all. My brother Nub was a Yankee fan, too; and I gave him most of those ole Mantle cards, which our mother threw away when we were grown. This fate was shared by many other collectors, making the cards I have all the more special and worthy. That time in the ’60s was a glorious time for major league baseball, and I wouldn’t trade those days of baseball arguments, with people who are still my dear friends, for anything in this world. So, Henry, will this do? Columnist Alma Womack lives on Smithland 3ODQWDWLRQ RQ %ODFN 5LYHU VRXWK RI -RQHVYLOOH Louisiana. In addition to her duties as maitresse des maison, she is the keeper of the lawn, the lane and the pecan orchard at Smithland.

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