Bluffs & Bayous November 2012

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From Your Publisher . . .

W

hen we think of Southern food, we automatically think biscuits, barbeque, and fried chicken.

Yes, those are staples in our Southern culinary fare; however, living and dining in the South offers so much more. During this holiday season of Thanksgiving our minds turn to food for feast! That’s it….feast. We call this season our feast season, offering thanks for all of the many feasts of our lives, that is, our many blessings—our family, our faith, our freedom…. But before we get on a tangent of thankfulness, I want to salute our feast focus for November.

Esther Carpenter, chef, artist, and owner of The Elms in Natchez, Mississippi, shares her ancestral home all year long as a Spring Pilgrimage tour home, bed-and-breakfast inn, and fine-dining venue, often collaborating with neighbor Joe Stone, owner of the Joseph Newman Stone House, for an

evening of champagne, music, and dinner.

Our culinary columnist Jennie Guido experienced this evening of Southern charm and shares Carpenter’s food feast as one of our featured articles.

Working with Media Specialist Adam Blackwell, Guido also connected with Andy Chapman, owner of EatJxn in Jackson, Mississippi. Her second feature this month focuses on this social media outlet that offers reviews and responds to queries about local restaurants in the capital city. The site relates stories of area restaurants from an “eatie’s” perspective.

Be sure to peruse this site; and when in Jackson, take advantage of the many restaurants they have canvassed that you may not know about.

Becky Junkin, who with husband, Jerry, owns antebellum Hechler Hall here in Natchez, has returned this month with

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some of her family’s favorite recipes that she prepares for their Thanksgiving feast.

She has also included recipes for some healthy and tasty seasonal muffins. I have found some soups that are sure to please the buds as well. I love soups during the cooler months, especially using autumn’s fresh vegetables. The fresher the ingredients the better! Try making soups and freezing them to have on hand for quicksupper nights or to share with friends during the holidays.

Our “Premier Events” and “Up & Coming” offer information regarding local tours, timely events, and outings. This comprehensive calendar is also posted on our website and in our interactive magazine online. Also, our events are emailed weekly to our reading public and feature the exciting goings-on in ALL of our readership areas. If you do not receive this information, please email Adam Blackwell—media.bluffsandbayous@gmail.com—to be placed on our newsletter list. I encourage all of you to go to our Facebook page and “like” Bluffs & Bayous, and connect with us on Twitter. We offer our magazine online and free for everyone to read, enjoy, and learn about life along and beyond the Mississippi.

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C o n t r i b u t o r s Columnist Ross McGehee, a lifelong resident of Natchez, Mississippi, owns a diversified and far-flung farm operation.

Columnist Mary Emrick is the owner of Turning Pages Books & More in Natchez, Mississippi.

Robert Ferguson, a resident of Jackson, Mississippi, for most of his life, received his degree in horticulture from Mississippi State University in 1973. Interested in orchids since the age of 13, he owned Ferguson Orchids from 1973 to 2002 where orchids were cloned, grown from seed, and sold. Ferguson is a Life member of The American Orchid Society, has garnered four American Orchid Society Awards for his orchids, and has won three American Orchid Society Exhibition Trophies for Best of Show.

Patricia Taylor is a Doctor of Naturopathy and a Consultant Medical Herbalist, having studied at the University of Wales and Clayton, Alabama. She is a member of the National Institute of Medical Herbalists of Great Britain and a registered herbalist with the American Herbalists Guild. Taylor has a practice in her hometown in England, and she and her husband John split their year between there and their home in Natchez, Mississippi.

Columnist Alma Womack lives on Smithland Plantation on Black River, south of Jonesville, 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.

Jennie Guido is a graduate of Delta State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Arts and Master’s Degree in English Education.

Having lived up Highway 61 in Cleveland, Mississippi, she recently has returned to Natchez, her hometown, to pursue her professional career.

Lucien C. “Sam” Gwin III, a native of Natchez, Mississippi, was admitted to the Mississippi Bar in 1981. Since then, he has been practicing at the law firm of Gwin, Lewis, Punches & Kelley, LLP, in Natchez. His practice includes general litigation, real estate law, divorce, contract disputes, eminent domain, products liability, personal injury, medical matters, and some estate work.

on the cover As part of our Feast Issue this month, we’ve traveled to The Elms, a bed-and-breakfast mansion and home of Esther Carpenter.

Artist and chef de cuisine, Carpenter opens her home for tours, special dinners, cooking classes, weddings, and other festive events. Earlier this fall, cuisine columnist Jennie Guido enjoyed one of Carpenter’s extraordinary dining venues.

See story pages 32 - 34.

publisher Cheryl Foggo Rinehart editors Jean Nosser Biglane Cheryl Foggo Rinehart graphic designers Jan Ratcliff Anita Schilling media coordinator Adam Blackwell staff photographers Van O’Gwin Elise D. Parker Jennifer Ratliff Cheryl Rinehart sales staff Cheryl Rinehart Donna Sessions JoAnna Sproles

Adam Blackwell

Jean Biglane

Van O’Gwin

Elise D. Parker

Jan Ratcliff

Cheryl Rinehart

Anita Schilling

Jennifer Ratliff

Donna Sessions

JoAnna Sproles

Bluffs & Bayous is published monthly to promote the greater Southern area of Louisiana and Mississippi in an informative and positive manner. We welcome contributions of articles and photos; however, they will be subject to editing and availability of space and subject matter. Photographs, comments, questions, subscription requests and ad placement inquiries are invited! Return envelopes and postage must accompany all materials submitted if a return is requested. No portion of this publication may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. The opinions expressed in Bluffs & Bayous are those of the authors or columnists and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products or services herein. We reserve the right to refuse any advertisement. Bluffs & Bayous strives to 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 | fax 601-442-6842 info@bluffsbayous.com | editor@bluffsbayous.com sales@bluffsbayous.com www.bluffsbayous.com

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November 2012 FEATURES EatJxn: Food Journaling at Its Finest................................................................... 26-27 Modern Day Soiree ~ The Joseph Newman Stone House and The Elms An Evening of Classical Music and Haute Cuisine ........................................... 32-34 In the Kitchen . . . Cheryl’s Friends and Family ................................................... 56-60

FAVORITES In the Kitchen . . .

Cheryl’s Friends and Family pages 56 - 60

All Outdoors Letting the Highs Carry the Lows ........................................................................ 14-15

Events November Premier Events ................................................................................... 62-63 November Up & Coming! .................................................................................... 64-75

From the Stacks The Two Histories of Thanksgiving Every Child Should “Read” ............................. 11

In the Garden Often Addictive Phalaenopsis Orchids ................................................................ 22-23

Legal Notes Law Along the Mississippi......................................................................................... 37

Random Jottings Saffron Walden and Audley End, Essex, England .............................................. 44-47

EatJxn: Food Journaling at Its Finest pages 26 - 27

Southern Sampler The Glories, Chores, and Challenges of Autumn ............................................... 79-81

THE social SCENE

Grandmother Shower for Michelle Howell ............................................................... 9 Senior Party for Carey Crozier ............................................................................. 16-17 Natchez Festival of Music Reception................................................................... 18-19 Reception Honoring NGC Volunteers ...................................................................... 24 NGC’s Fifth Annual Fall Bash ............................................................................... 28-29 Friends of the Library Membership Party ........................................................... 38-39 Junior Auxiliary of Vicksburg ................................................................................... 40 Farewell Luncheon for Kay Young ........................................................................... 41 Natchez-Adams County Chamber of Commerce Gala ....................................... 48-50 Benefit Dinner for Congressman Greg Harper ......................................... 54-55 Pike County Arts Council Honors William Dunlap .................................................. 61 Taste of the Trust Ticket Party ....................................................................... 76 Families First for Mississippi ...................................................................................... 77

Modern Day Soiree ~ The Joseph Newman Stone House and The Elms An Evening of Classical Music and Haute Cuisine

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THE wedding SCENE

Golden Anniversary Reception ............................................................................12-13 Hardins Celebrate Golden Anniversary...............................................................30-31 Engagement Party for Robinson and Moore ..........................................................36

Grandmother Shower for Michelle Howell | Vicksburg, MS | THE social SCENE

Grandmother Shower for Michelle Howell Not often is a first-time grandmother blessed with identical twin granddaughters, so Vicksburg, Mississippi, friends of Michelle Howell of Mobile, Alabama, thought she needed a Grandmother Shower. Howell’s daughter, Dr. Hennessy (Henna) Winters, and her husband, Dr. William (Win) Winters of Birmingham, Alabama, are the expectant parents with baby girls due soon.

On August 18, 2012, Kinu Kraus opened her cheerfully decorated, Vicksburg home to guests while Heather BurnsGarcia laid out a magnificent selection of multiple sweets and savories. Anita Schilling poured peach and strawberry Bellinis and other selections as guests wrote grandmotherly advice in the guest book. Of course, some of the gifts made their way to the Winters’ home, but many stayed with Howell for use with the delightful duo.

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Dolores Rohrer, Ronda Wolfe, Michelle Howell, and Corin Morrison Kinu Kraus, Heather Burns-Garcia, and Dana Klimas Patsy Humble, Michelle Howell, and Henrietta Lamb Anita Schilling, Heather Burns-Garcia, and Ronda Wolfe

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Nancy Bonner Proud parents, Henna and Win, show off beautiful, identical twin daughters Parker Ann and Rowan Elise, born October 3, 2012. Congratulations to the new parents and grandparents!

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From the Stacks review by Mary Emrick

The Two Histories of Thanksgiving Every Child Should “Read” This is the Feast by Diane Z. Shore, illustrated by Megan Lloyd Sarah Gives Thanks by Mike Allegra, illustrated by David Gardner

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his is the Feast and Sarah Gives Thanks are two children’s picture books that teach valuable lessons about our national holiday Thanksgiving.

One gives the traditional story of the first Thanksgiving, including Pilgrims and Native Americans; the other relates the story of how Thanksgiving was established as a national holiday.

This is the Feast written by Diane Z. Shore and illustrated by Megan Lloyd is recommended for ages four and up. The seasonal children’s title is the story of the Pilgrims who sailed on the legendary Mayflower in search of religious freedom and a new life. The book describes the hardships of those first immigrants including stormy seas, illness, and unfamiliar climates and terrain.

The book includes the story of the Native Americans who helped the Pilgrims learn to hunt and fish in the new land. These Native Americans also taught their new neighbors how to grow crops for food. After the Pilgrims had survived in their new home, America, for a year and had harvested the bountiful gardens, they invited the Native Americans to share in their first “Thanksgiving.” Shore writes the vivid story using rhyming lyrics that appeal to young children. Megan Lloyd provides beautifully colored and detailed illustrations to accompany the events of the story.

A new book this Thanksgiving is Sarah Gives Thanks written by Mike Allegra

and illustrated by David Gardner. Mike Allegra’s picture book is recommended for first grade and up. Sarah Gives Thanks is the story of a Sarah Josepha Hale, who would not give up the idea of making Thanksgiving a national holiday.

Hale, the mother of five small children, became a widow when she was very young.

She had no formal education but had been taught by her brother, who was a graduate of Dartmouth, and her husband, who was a lawyer. But still, there were no jobs for women in the early nineteenth century.

How was she going to support her family?

Hale always had a love of words and began writing stories and poetry. She had been encouraged to submit her work for publication and decided she would try to keep her family from starving by writing.

Boston magazines began paying Hale for stories she wrote after putting the children to bed in the evenings.

Four years following her husband’s death, Hall had a book of poetry published that was selling well. She was so thankful for her blessings that she wanted Thanksgiving like The Fourth of July to become a national holiday. In the 1820s, Thanksgiving was observed by a few states but not on a specific date.

For thirty-six years and through the terms of four presidents, Sarah wrote letters and lobbied for the national holiday.

Finally on October 3, 1863, President Abraham Lincoln issued a proclamation making a national day of Thanksgiving.

The holiday would be the last Thursday of November; and every year since, Thanksgiving has been celebrated.

Sarah Gives Thanks tells the story of a courageous woman blazing a trail for

other women. Sarah Hale would not give up on her ability as a writer or on her desire to make Thanksgiving a national holiday. I thank her! Mike Allegra and David Gardner present us a very well written, beautifully illustrated detailed story about Sarah Josepha Hale, an amazing woman.

In tandem This is the Feast and Sarah Gives Thanks will make thanksgiving a more meaningful holiday for young children and the adults who read to them.

Diane Shore has written several books for children and lives in Atlanta, Georgia. Megan Lloyd is a talented illustrator of many picture books. She lives in Pennsylvania.

Mike Allegra is a journalist, playwright, and magazine editor and lives in New Jersey with his wife and son. David Gardner, a resident of New Mexico, is the illustrator of many books for children.

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THE weddingSCENE | Smithdale, MS | Golden Anniversary Reception

Golden Anniversary Reception Melvin and Frances Davis celebrated their Golden Wedding Anniversary September 16, 2012, at Mt. Gilead Primitive Baptist Church in Smithdale, Mississippi. After church services, friends and family enjoyed a formal reception, hosted by the Davis children and honoring the couple for their fifty years of marriage. The honorees celebrated the event with a traditional cutting of the cake and formal family portraits as all on hand were treated to a scrumptious buffet.

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Melvin and Frances Davis Abigail Mulcahy, Dana Mulcahy, and Katherine Keller Charlie and Charlotte Wallace Johnny and Carol Parsons

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Golden Anniversary Reception | Smithdale, MS | THE weddingSCENE

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Melvin and Frances Davis, seated, among family: front—Will Dayries, Ethan Keller, Seth Keller, and Katherine Keller; middle—Kevin Mulcahy, Matthew Mulcahy, and Abigail Mulcahy; back—Trey and Emily Dayries, Gordon and Lisa Haydel, Dana and Paul Mulcahy, Lori and Mike Keller, and Ilene and Reginald Bankston Lisa Haydel and Anita Arnold Yolanda Spring and Frances Davis

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All Outdoors

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by Ross McGehee

Letting the Highs Carry the Lows

t had already been a long day. The soybean combine had taken in a large chunk of wood the night before and broken a $1000 shaft that Mike had driven 400 miles to replace.

Russell, the John Deere mechanic, had been with us all day making repairs. At one point of reassembly, two of us were lying on our stomachs in the dust on top of the machine, pulling up on the replacement part; another lay on his back under the machine, pushing up with his feet; and a fourth was putting bolts in place. We had it back together in time to cut just one hopper of soybeans after dark. Russell, the mechanic, left about 9:15 that night, and he had an hour-anda-half drive home.

We all have good days and bad days. But when the weather, mechanical difficulties, and logistics conspire to thwart your best effort, it is sometimes hard to be upbeat. Indeed there are often times when it would be easy to wonder why on earth you do this in the first place. With the financial risk in farming, the long hours, and all the things beyond your control, there would seem to be no logical reason to continue. But the flip side is that there are so many intangible benefits that far outweigh the sleepless nights and skinned knuckles.

Long days in the field are beyond the comprehension of many. Awake before 6:00 a.m. (no alarm clock), gone at 6:30 a.m. (Ask the neighbors.), and rarely home before dark, six and often seven days a week. But if you don’t have parts to pick up and go straight to the field, it is likely that you’ll watch the sun come up or see deer or raccoons drift through the fog in the early light. Sightings of alligators, hawks, and passing geese sometimes break the monotony of a long workday.

On one farm, we enjoy watching the passing towboats as we work the fields next to the Mississippi River. On three different farms, we watched Bald Eagles

soar overhead this year. Even something as common as a thunderhead’s building in the distance can make you stop everything else that’s going on in your mind and marvel at the energy it has. Late in the day, sunsets along the river are spectacular if the barometric pressure is high. Then after dark, when machinery is shut down, the coyotes tune up and send chills up your spine.

Good days are about people, too. You know which businesses are open at 7:00 a.m. and they know that if you show up at 7:15 you’ve already made another stop.

We are grateful for the folks who make the effort to be available. Like the call made to John Deere last week on a Sunday for advice on a reluctant machine. Darn right they answered the phone! I was driving up to the broken down combine, talking on the cell phone with a mechanic at the dealership, when I looked in the rear-view mirror and literally had Russell following right behind me. He was going to another call and thought he’d just check on us as he passed by. He finished his other job and came back by just in case we needed him.

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On a Sunday! He went home after dark that night, too.

One time, I asked a host in a foreign country what the weather was expected to do the next day. He responded with the question, “What difference does it make?”

He was no farmer! First, it would be helpful to know what to wear. But rain or shine, there is something to be done or schedules to be changed because of weather. There are farms and fields that are far from the blacktop, and you don’t want to get caught six miles down a buckshot road after rain starts! And knowing how many hours of sunshine you’ll get affects when hay baling should commence if rain is on the way.

It’s interesting that, if you’ve spent your life outdoors, you take cues from animals, the wind, and sometimes the color of the sky to know what to expect from weather. Of course, I-phones have made it easy for the younger folks to show you where the storm is but they haven’t yet learned to “feel” the humidity change or read the clouds.

Speaking of I-phones: I wish there was an “app” for making hay! You bale it in the

hottest part of the year and put it out in the coldest part. And putting it out exposes you to the disdain of the beneficiaries, obviously, since they force you to travel through their leavings. Get back in the truck, and now it smells like a cow pile. Not to worry.

It only lasts until you wash it out in the spring. But the flip side is that you are there to watch the birth of next year’s babies and that never gets old. Sometimes assistance is required in a birth, and there’s a better than even chance that your efforts will be rewarded with bovine hot-pursuit!

They are just getting us back. Rounding up cattle isn’t as romantic as the westerns would have you believe. Routing cattle out of the woods, especially if they are hiding, can be a challenge. They can hide where horses and four-wheelers can’t go; and when set in motion, they obviously follow the rules of engagement they crafted while sequestered the last time. Most will head in the same direction, but that’s only a ploy to divert your attention from the four that doubled back into a persimmon thicket.

Still, there aren’t many sights as stirring as the fluid motion of a herd of cattle moving as a body across a valley and up the next hill. The energy displayed and the tonnage

moved by the right amount of human presence are impressive.

The effect of human presence on our surroundings is unquestionably important.

Visualizing it is important for your psyche as well. My daughter Mary Elizabeth, who now lives in Connecticut, reports that on one of the most popular websites there is a program called “Farmville.” Apparently, participants can run a “virtual farm” online, buy and sell supplies, hire consultants, choose crops to grow, and get feedback on how well their efforts “paid off.”

I think programs such as this speak to the basic need of people to feel productive even though their careers have confined them to offices, and the only thing they gather is data. For instance, last week, my daughter Sophie showed up in the field and wanted to help. She has a degree in Graphic Design, but my son Daniel put her on an enormous tractor with a 30-foot wide implement behind it. He showed her how to use the Auto-steer; and before you know it, she had tilled 60 acres with the same precision that she uses to apply eye-liner!

Just like the folks who play farmer online, she felt that she had accomplished something tangible.

A job “in town” would be one step up from prison for many of us. Being outdoors is central to the personality of folks who live and work outdoors. And that comes with the understanding that sooner or later you’re going to get rained on, cold, or so hot that you’ll need a change of clothes mid-day. But you’re also going to see lots of spotted fawns, rainbows, goose migrations, crops grown, crops harvested, and – if you’re lucky – some fabulous cow wrecks! Working outdoors may mean that you won’t have a tennis court or swimming pool at home; and with any luck, you won’t be there to use them anyway!

We’ll celebrate Thanksgiving this month. And in a country where many complain of a lack of work while others of us can’t get away from it, we should be grateful for the opportunities that we are given.

Although so many feel that they should be entitled to success, however they choose to define it, all we are really entitled to is opportunity. How we respond to it and how we view it is up to us. Just like feeding cows, we can focus on what we are stepping in or focus on where it is taking us.

Sometimes you just have to let the highs carry the lows.

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THE social SCENE | Brookhaven, MS | Senior Party for Carey Crozier

Senior Party for Carey Crozier Friends and family honored Carey Crozier of Brookhaven, Mississippi, with a Senior Party to celebrate her senior year at Brookhaven High School. Hostesses for the party at Skate Zone included Kellye Sicks, Sarah Foster, Kim Arnold, Jennifer Adcock, Angie Warren, Leanna Crozier, and Gerri Miller.

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3 Chase, Clay, Chaney, Carey, Lola, and Leanna Crozier Kellye Sicks, Sarah Foster, Kim Arnold, Jennifer Adcock, Angie Warren, Leanna Crozier, and Gerri Miller Alisia Williams, Aliyah Lyons, Adrianna Spiller, and Kadijah Stewart Carey Crozier and Leanna Crozier Carey Crozier and Shelby Peavey Will Hickman and Monia Kaur Henrietta Clay, Carey Crozier, and Ron Clay Alex Craig and Jessie Henning

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Senior Party for Carey Crozier | Brookhaven, MS | THE social SCENE

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Archea Brotherns, Carey Crozier, Christen Benson, Monique Batteast, and Shelby Peavey Seth Porter and Maggie Redd Jaboree Poole, Shelby Peavey, Genoa Sartin, and Christen Benson Ashley Mezzanares and Peyton Clark

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THE social SCENE | Natchez, MS | Natchez Festival of Music Reception

Natchez Festival of Music Reception The Board of Directors for Natchez Festival of Music was honored recently with a cocktail reception at the home of Bill and Bobbye Henley in Natchez, Mississippi. Artistic Director Jay Dean was on hand to mingle with the directors and festival members.

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3 Jay Dean, Ed Haworth, Sandy Taylor, and Rena Jean Schmieg Bobbye Henley, Stratton Bull, and Doris Ann Benoist Bob Sizemore, Jay Dean, and Bill Henley Mary Lessley and Jay Dean Peggy Sandel and Bobbye Henley Walter and Peggy Sandel Claudette Songy, Sandra Burkes, and Mike Gammel Jay Dean and Bob M. Dearing

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Natchez Festival of Music Reception | Natchez, MS | THE social SCENE

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Mary Lessley, Ed Haworth, Tom and Sandy Taylor, and Mike Gemmel Bobbye Henley, Dr. Brad LeMay, and Rena Jean Schmieg Dan Winn, Bruce Brice, and Dr. Brad LeMay Elaine Gammel, Dr. Brad LeMay, Maxine Brice, and Arthur Person Dianna Glaze and Mike Gammel

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In the Garden story and photos by Robert Ferguson

Often Addictive Phalaenopsis Orchids

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halaenopsis orchids are the ones that have the large, wide, flat, tapered succulent leaves that grow from the center of the plant. They are sometime called the ‘Moth Orchid.’

Their leaves of phalaenopsis orchids can be dark, solid green top and bottom or purplish with silver markings on top and purple beneath. Some can also have variegated leaves. The orchid’s leaves are used as water storage organs and can be very brittle the more water they store.

The leaves can tolerate different percentages of light, depending upon the temperature of the surrounding environment; but under NO circumstances allow DIRECT SUN to hit the leaves. Phalaenopsis normally grow in very subdued light in their native habitats in the Philippine Islands, Malaysian Archipelago, Borneo, and Sarawak. These jungles are very warm and humid for most of the year.

Many species occur within the genus Phalaenopsis, and they are slow growers. All phalaenopsis are epiphytic and can reach a 36-inch leaf span when grown successfully.

The longer phalaenopsis orchids can remain UNDISTURBED (not repotted), the more rewarding the plants will be. Their large, whitish-silver roots can have a flat, scalelike texture with a green tip when the plants are actively growing. The roots emerge perpendicular to the leaves while the flowering spikes emerge in the same plane as the leaves. When exposed to light, phalaenopsis can also perform photosynthesis.

When grown properly, phalaenopsis can flower year round. Their flowers can range from one-half inch to four inches; and color patterns include striped, blotched, bars, spots, and concentric circles around the column. Their labellum can be flat with spurs on either side or very narrow and linear.

Ordinarily, phalaenopsis orchids require temperatures above 60 degrees to grow successfully. However, to produce flowering spikes in captivity, these orchids need cool temperatures below 60 degrees for 30 nights to initiate flower formation.

One should never use water below 60 degrees when watering phalaenopsis. Cold water will cause adverse conditions to develop on the leaves, thereby causing the loss of the leaves. When watering in the winter, it is best NOT to get water on the succulent leaves but only on the roots.

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Many different media, from sphagnum moss to just plain cedar slabs, are used for growing these epiphytic plants. The media depends upon your growing area. In the past, people have potted phalaenopsis in conventional clay pots with different kinds of tree bark, moss of different kinds, coconut fiber, actual peanut shells, or just plain and very coarse perlite. Whatever you use, bear in mind that the plant DOES NOT want to be disturbed and requires at least 50 percent humidity. These are true tropical dwellers and will have difficulty

growing to their potential if these conditions are not met.

A word of CAUTION about growing phalaenopsis: it can be VERY ADDICTIVE. When you find your phalaenopsis growing new leaves that are larger than last year’s growth, producing bigger and more flowers and lasting longer, you have reached a new plateau. You then may choose to begin sharing your lower quality plants with friends, thereby making more space for better quality plants.

Phalaenopsis breeding has produced many thousands of hybrids just in the last 30 years, and cloning has really changed the availability of affordable phalaenopsis.

Most consumer orchids now are available for $9.99 and up, depending upon quality. If you find yourself not satisfied with the chain-store varieties, there are growers around the country producing fabulous phalaenopsis. These are available at specialty greenhouses and at regional orchid shows mostly in the fall through spring when phalaenopsis are in bloom.

My collection of phalaenopsis orchids started on my mother’s dining room table in 1959. As of 1986, it had grown to an 8,000-square-foot greenhouse.

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THE social SCENE | Natchez, MS | Reception Honoring NGC Volunteers

Reception Honoring NGC Volunteers An afternoon reception was held at the home of Donna Sessions in Natchez, Mississippi in late September 2012 to honor members of the Natchez Garden Club who work on the various teams that orchestrate the Candlelight Dinners, events that benefit the restoration of the club’s historic properties.

Team members were reminded of the club’s appreciation for their dedication and hard work.

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5 Jo Ann Herrington, Carol Frank, Regina Hootsell, Monica Cross, and Donna Sessions Penny Daggett, Jo Ann Herrington, Rose Borum, Susan Gardner, and Ariel Gardner Donna Sessions, Suzan Hogue, Andreé Gamberi, and Penny Daggett Meghan Guido and Phyllis Feiser Susan and Ariel Gardner Phyllis Feiser, Meghan Guido, and Carol Frank

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Something Scrumptious by Jennie Guido

EatJxn:

Food Journaling at Its Finest

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ou know those nights when trying to decide on what to eat, let alone where to eat, seems to challenge even the most head strong of decisionmakers? Well, thankfully there is a way around all of the guesswork when it comes to picking out the perfect eatery in the Jackson, Mississippi, area. The brain child of Andy Chapman, EatJxn is not only a social media outlet for reviews of and queries about local restaurants but also a website filled to the brim with articles debating the best of the best in the capital city.

Chapman’s journey through the many social networks started simply with a Twitter account. “In late 2009, I was doing a lot of consulting work and ended up working for about six different restaurants at once to help them all learn about social media. Back “Nagoya has always been a favorite of mine for Sushi, and this asparagus and almond filled roll is to die for.” — Andy Chapman, EatJxn

then, it was a ‘new’ thing to be on Facebook as a business; and to my knowledge, there were no restaurants on Twitter in Jackson at that time,” Chapman explained.

EatJxn was formed to give these restaurants “a voice” in the media outlets; and within a few days, over one hundred people had taken notice and followed along.

Now, with over seven thousand followers, EatJxn is also a functioning Facebook fan page and full website devoted to teaching Mississippians how and where to eat.

Chapman told me how over time different chefs asked him to stop by and see the inside of their restaurants. As he did so, he recalled, “I started to see that there was a world of food around here that the ‘average guy’ may have missed. I fell in love with being able to tell the story from an ‘eatie’s’ perspective.” Of course, some things were explained to followers such as the ever elusive foi gras and where exactly the best fried mozzarella can be found; but for the most part, EatJxn became a way to

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get to know the many restaurants hidden throughout the area.

For us, the ones that live along the Mississippi, EatJxn features restaurants that are “worth the drive” to help even those who do not live in the metro area find a new place to enjoy. For that weekend getaway to New Orleans or that beach vacation along the coast, EatJxn’s website provides helpful hints and fabulous finds that the everyday observer would not be privy to otherwise. For example, many of our readers are known to take weekend jaunts up North to follow the Rebels, Bulldogs, and even the Fighting Okra; and EatJxn has several articles to help these travelers locate the perfect spot for a meal abroad.

I asked Chapman what his plans are to compete with the world of apps out there.

“I think we offer a fresh perspective and more than what the others have with just their ‘yea’ or ‘nay’ and a comment,” he said. “We actually are out there behind the scenes, working with restaurants to help

“FRIED cheesecake from Wasabi Sushi & Bar... Wow!” — Andy Chapman, EatJxn

them grow their business and helping them to improve. I’ve called many owners personally late at night, if I hear of a bad experience, so they will have the opportunity to follow up on it and fix whatever the problem may be.”

By being involved with each restaurant, Chapman and the crew at EatJxn are able to give readers the full experience and not just a second-hand look at the menu. “We are really focused on economic development for restaurants,” Chapman stated. “I want them to do well. I want them to get other publications talking about them. I want national media to understand that we are a true culinary destination.”

Working alongside Chapman are several important team members to help launch EatJxn further into the viral community. “My wife Marianna is the Head of Operations, manages our writers and photographers, and keeps the wheels on the road, so to speak,” Chapman explained and added, “Laura Busby is the Technology Manager that is a tremendous asset to the team. Angela Shepard is the Sales Director and works with sponsors to help tell our story and sell our brand. Also, Mary-Susan Anderson is our Event Coordinator who is managing our Jackson Restaurant Week

and our different Throwdown Events, such as the Crab Cake Throwdown, as well as our Chef’s Table events.”

These Chef’s Table events, Chapman clarified, “are ticketed events that are open to the public with a limited number of tickets available. When they are gone, they are gone. It’s a great way to highlight a venue, chef, and sponsors for a very select group of folks and to have a wonderful time learning but also just having fun with the chefs in an intimate

setting. Most of the time they are hidden in the kitchen, and you don’t get much interaction with them during a meal.”

However, with such EatJxn events as these, foodies are able to meet the man or woman behind the curtain at some of their favorite eateries and such.

As far as what the future holds for EatJxn, Chapman confirmed there are many things to come that will be launching soon. “I can’t spill all of the beans just yet,” he commented, “but we’ve got several regions in mind for growth and even some national partners to help us along the way. It’s exciting!”

So, what makes EatJxn so unique? “I think we have a diverse collection of information,” Chapman said. “We have the white-table-cloth experience that we cover, and we also love a greasy spoon and a burger that would knock your socks off. I strongly believe that the restaurants and quality here are really exceptional; so when folks want to know what to expect at a restaurant, I think we do a good job of painting the picture before they make a decision.”

Head on over to EatJackson.com, follow @eatjxn on Twitter, and like them on Facebook to learn more about Chapman, his team, and the many scrumptious sites they have so diligently and delectably explored— and are so enthusiastic about sharing.

“I am a burger person, and EatJxn has an entire article debating the best burger in Jackson with this one—the Butter Burger from Mint the Restaurant.” — Andy Chapman, EatJxn

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THE social SCENE | Natchez, MS | NGC' s Fifth Annual Fall Bash

NGC' s Fifth Annual Fall Bash The Natchez Garden Club held its Fifth Annual Fall Bash in the Barrel Room at Bowie’s Tavern in downtown Natchez, Mississippi, on September 27, 2012. Silent Auction packages were on display for bidding while guests enjoyed cocktails and appetizers. This casual benefit is one of several events held throughout the year to maintain and restore the club’s historic properties that are open to the public.

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3 Front— Jessica Ryan and Lauren Middleton; back—Jennifer Slover, Catherine Callon, Kari Guido, Meghan Guido, Katie Johnson, and Jennie Guido Carol Frank, Rachel Garber, Kathy Garber, and Smokey Joe Frank Brenda and Ricky Edgin, and Randy Smith Will Carter, Alan Smith, Caroline James, Scott Slover, Rene Cantu, and Kacie Smith Helen Smith and Faye Weatherly Meghan Guido, Michelle Skates, and Kristen Jordan Darby Short and Linda Melancon

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NGC' s Fifth Annual Fall Bash | Natchez, MS | THE social SCENE

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Cretia Johnson and Faye Weatherly Lauren Middleton and JoAnn Herrington Ryan Richardson, Regina Hootsell, Tim Sessions, Finley Hootsell, and Donna Sessions

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THE weddingSCENE | McComb, MS | Hardins Celebrate Golden Anniversary

Hardins Celebrate Golden Anniversary September 22, 2012, marked the Golden Anniversary of Mr. and Mrs. Emile Gene Hardin of McComb, Mississippi. Father Brian Kaskie of St. Alphonsis Catholic Church officiated at the renewal-of-vows ceremony for the couple who as Carol Jean Cody and Emile Gene Hardin were married in 1962 at Mt. Hope Lutheran Church in Allen Park, Michigan. After the ceremony, the couple and guests enjoyed a champagne toast and lunch hosted by their daughters Kelly Ann Daigrepont and Jenny Rebecca Hays in the church’s Ligouri Hall.

Photos by Elise Parker

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Gene and Carol Hardin Connie Fontenot, Chuck Fontenot, Carl Curry, Isabel Curry, Nancy Patterson, and Jerry Patterson Hardin grandchildren: Sean Hardin, Dane Daigrepont, Bryan Hays, Nicole Brown, and Connor Hays Rebekah, Rachel, Jeff, Shari, and Kylee Frank Dana Daigrepont, Sean Hardin, and Tabetha Brown Willard Seale, Florence Seal, and Donald Wells

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Hardins Celebrate Golden Anniversary | McComb, MS | THE weddingSCENE

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Kelly Daigrepont, Carol Hardin, Gene Ross and Gwen Sheffield Gene Hardin and Jenny Hays Carol Hardin and Betsy Shelton Cliff and Marty Ott

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Something Scrumptious story by Jennie Guido, photos by Aimee Guido

Modern Day Soiree ~ The Joseph Newman Stone House and The Elms An Evening of Classical Music and Haute Cuisine

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ach year during both Fall and Spring Pilgrimages, all of Natchez, Mississippi, rises to these occasions with only the best of the best to offer our guests from across the globe. This year the tradition continued with such classic enticements as the musical musings and delectable delicacies showcased by Joe Stone and Esther Carpenter, respectively, with their elegant block-party evenings.

Both The Elms and The Joseph Newman Stone House, now located across Washington Street from each other, were built in the 1850s by David Stanton as one home. According to Carpenter, “The Stone House was a home built for Stanton’s children as a billiard hall to entertain themselves.” However, when the property was sold, she added, “The two were sold separately to the Drakes, who bought The Elms, and the Stones, who bought the billiard hall. Over the years, both homes have been passed down through the different families to today’s owners—Esther Carpenter

running The Elms as a Bedand-Breakfast and Joe Stone doing the same at The J.N. Stone House.

After careers in New York and other fabulous places, both Carpenter and Stone returned to Natchez to bring their experiences home and put a new spin on these classic Natchez favorites.

As we chatted, Carpenter explained that what she wanted to achieve with these evening, block-party events was a way to involve tourists with the locals. It is one thing for a tourist to be an onlooker, a viewer, but it is an entirely different experience when a visitor can participate and “experience our culture first hand,” Carpenter clarified.

To join the growing numbers of locals as well as tourists sampling this unique event, on a crisp Friday night in October, my sister and I ventured downtown to join Cheryl and Mike Rinehart and friends for an entertaining night on

Above—Esther Carpenter seated in the dining room with one of her featured desserts, Pumpkin Moose with Crunchy Gingersnaps and Maple Whipped Cream Left—Esther Carpenter enjoys the evening with Teresa Risher Burns and Eileen Read Ball, all friends from childhood and former dancers with Natchez Ballet Academy.

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Washington Street. The evening commenced at The Stone House with Joe Stone’s lively and inspiring piano pieces.

Sitting in the parlor, all of us were immersed in the strains of musical selections reflecting various styles and different eras.

Such a perfect ambiance for the first half of our evening was soon followed by a banquet befitting the royals Once we crossed the street, the evening’s intrigue continued with scents of fall spices wafting from The Elms’ kitchen. The elegant antebellum home’s formal dining room welcomed us with meticulous place-settings and crisp linens at every seat around the long table that was centered with a colorful porcelain bowl filled with shiny green apples.

To initiate the repast, Carpenter served Lobster Saffron Minestrone, setting the bar extremely high for the rest of the menu.

Filled with a medley of vegetables and

large lumps of luscious lobster, this soup was a perfect way to warm up on a chilly night and begin our fine-dining experience.

The small kick from the minestrone’s saffron is a taste I particularly relished, and one I will seek on menus from now on.

After a tossed green salad topped with a tangy champagne vinaigrette, each of us enjoyed our choice of entrees for the evening—Veal Chops with a trio of vegetables or Pan-Fried Oysters wrapped in bacon and a manicotti filled with collard greens.

Thankfully, I have a sister with a yen for oysters, so we made our selections fairly quickly. Her oysters were “to die for,” cozy in their little bacon beds and nestled atop a savory romesco sauce of roasted peppers, tomatoes, and almonds. The manicotti was a treat as well with its twist of traditional Southern cuisine.

As for my veal, one simple word—succulent. I have never had a piece of meat so flavorful, so tender, so juicy, and so enticing with its heady mushroom sauce. A delightful surprise was the pureed complement to this main course. I have always been a bit tentative about beets; they just never have sounded too appetizing. Boy have I been missing out! They were unexpectedly sweet; and the combination of beets, parsnips and

sweet potatoes were a tantalizing trio. Tender, tasty yeast rolls were served with both entrees to complete the main course.

As if all of this fabulous fare were not enough, Carpenter dazzled all of us with one final dish, her dessert selection for the evening— a warm, caramelized apple topped with a scoop of cinnamon ice cream.

Oh, my! The apple was scrumptious, and the ice cream was outstanding with its spicy taste of fall and texture accented with tiny ice shavings.

I have to say that among all of the events, dinners, and nights of entertainment I have attended in Natchez over the years, this was such a treat and break from the usual that I cannot wait for another night like this one.

Not only were the food and music fantastic, but also the company with whom my sister and I enjoyed the evening was stellar—people I have known for many years and with whom that evening I shared several hours of pure socializing, just enjoying their company, catching up on their lives since we last visited, and learning more about them.

Carpenter was even able to join in on the fun, having a mini-reunion with her Natchez Ballet Academy girlfriends Teresa Burns and Eileen Ball.

If you are looking for a unique twist to your weekend enrichment, venture over to www.natchezantebellumtours.com to learn more about The Elms, The Joseph Newman Stone House, and other delightful Natchez venues for you and your family to enjoy.

Also, over the upcoming holidays, be sure to try the two recipes that follow. The Pumpkin Mousse was one of the desserts featured on the menu for an evening at The Elms. However, both are treats for all of your family to enjoy.

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Molten Chocolate Cake 4 squares Baker’s semi-sweet chocolate ½ cup butter 1 cup powdered sugar 2 whole eggs 2 egg yolks 6 tablespoons flour ½ cup thawed Cool Whip whipped topping Heat oven to 425 degrees. Butter 4 small custard cups, and place on baking sheet. Microwave chocolate and butter in large microwaveable bowl on high for one minute or until butter is melted; whisk until chocolate is completely melted.

Stir in sugar. Add whole eggs and egg yolks; mix well. Stir in flour. Spoon into prepared cups. Bake 13 to 14 minutes or until sides of desserts are firm but centers are still soft. Let stand for one minute. Carefully run small spatula or knife around edges of cakes to loosen; invert onto dessert plates. Serve warm with Cool Whip on top.

Pumpkin Mousse with Crunchy Gingersnaps and Maple Whipped Cream 1 tablespoon of powdered gelatin ¾ cup of water 4 large egg yolks

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6 tablespoons of maple syrup 1½ tablespoons of rum ½ teaspoon ground ginger ½ teaspoon allspice ¼ teaspoon cinnamon ¼ teaspoon cloves Pinch of nutmeg ¼ teaspoon salt 1 cup heavy cream 2 large egg whites 2 tablespoons sugar 10 gingersnaps, crushed Dissolve gelatin in water. Whip egg yolks and maple syrup, and add rum and spices.

Cook in double boiler, whisking briskly until the mixture has thickened and tripled in volume. Add moistened gelatin and take off heat. Whip cream until it holds soft peaks. Whip egg whites until shiny and hold firm. Holding back some of the cream for garnish (about ¾ of a cup), fold into pumpkin mixture; then do the same with the egg whites. Pour into parfait glasses. Garnish with whipped cream, crushed gingersnaps, and a drizzle of maple syrup.

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THE weddingSCENE | Summit, MS | Engagement Party for Robinson and Moore

Engagement Party for Robinson and Moore Whitney Moore and Chris Robinson were honored in September 2012 with an engagement party at the home of Gail and Johnny Ott of Summit, Mississippi. The couple exchanged vows October 5, 2012, in Tupelo.

Photos by Elise Parker

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Chris Robinson and Whitney Moore Chris Robinson and Whitney Moore with hosts Gail and Johnny Ott Neel and Niki Gibson with Emiko Faust Cindy and Larry Stewart with Judy Johnson Kathy Assaf, Lynn Leggett, and Virginia Pope

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Chip Leggett, Lamar Murrell, and Kennon Singley Betsy and Rusty Robichaux Noel Anders and Sally Johnson

Legal Notes by Lucien C. “Sam” Gwin III

Law Along the Mississippi Money on the Ground: BP Oil Spill Remember the old saying, “If it’s too good to be true, then it probably is”? Well, there may be a little exception to that maxim. Some of you may have read about this already, but BP Oil Company is now paying businesses in Mississippi for certain losses sustained due to its oil spill in May of 2010. I was first made aware of this situation by my friend Chuck Norris.

This is how it works. You must gather all of your business’s “monthly” profit-andloss records beginning in 2007 and extending through 2011. If your business shows a loss for any consecutive three-month period for the months of May 2010 through December 2010, as compared to the average of the profits and losses that your business received from 2007 through 2009 and also compared to the average in 2011, then BP will compensate your business for said loss. (I know; go ahead and pinch yourself to make sure it’s not a dream.)

The question then becomes which businesses may submit a claim? The answer is virtually all businesses with the exception of banks, oil companies, and insurance companies. That leaves almost everyone else in business in the state although this does not mean you are guaranteed money; you must have a legitimate loss for three consecutive months from the stated months of May 2010 through December 2010. Not only can any type of business file a claim, but also doctors, accountants, engineers, and—get this—attorneys can do so. Why, Bluffs & Bayous could even file a claim.

The next question is how does one go about doing this? The answer is to contact your attorney as most attorneys know how to go through the process of having claims administered.

The reason behind BP’s willingness to cover these losses is that, when the oil spill hit the coast, it caused a ripple effect throughout the economies of four to five southern states; and this method is the chosen equitable way to attempt to rectify the economic wrong.

My Take: Now, having practiced law for over thirty years, I know that a few people in business will feel that filing such a claim is just taking advantage of an unfortunate situation. They will feel that filing a claim just isn’t right. With that thought, one of Charlie Sheen’s infamous terms comes to mind—“losing.”

On the other hand, a lot of people will be surprised how many businesses did take a temporary financial hit in these months of 2010, and submitting your data is just a way to see if you qualify. Again, an infamous Charlie Sheen-ism comes to mind—“winning.”

Finally, there is a deadline looming, so you should not procrastinate in contacting your attorney about filing your business’s claim.

Slip and Lose

There was an interesting jury case tried in September 2012 in the Circuit Court of Adams County, Mississippi, in which a lady was a caretaker, sitting for another elderly lady. The caretaker was asked to go out and cut some flowers in the backyard. While cutting the flowers, she fell and broke her foot. She had substantial medical expenses. She testified that she fell in a concealed hole in the backyard. Another witness, who was the yardman, testified that he went out and looked and, of course, could not find a hole in the backyard. The case was submitted to the jury, who stayed out several hours and came back deadlocked on whether there was liability or not.

Therefore, the case will have to be tried all over again.

My Take: Litigation today can be very expensive, time consuming, and uncertain. Furthermore, you cannot predict what a jury will do in any courts in the state of Mississippi. I think the answer lies in judges ordering more mediation, which is a non-binding settlement conference. It is a statistical fact that 85% of all cases mediated settle at mediation or shortly thereafter.

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THE social SCENE | Natchez, MS | Friends of the Library Membership Party

Friends of the Library Membership Party Friends of the George Armstrong Library in Natchez, Mississippi, hosted its annual membership party September 17, 2012, at the George Armstrong library. Of special importance were new programs the library has to offer, such as a “teen” room. Emphasis was also given to the new shutters and painting of the library. The Annual Tour of Homes sponsored by the Friends of the Library will be held December 2, 2012, featuring many never-beforetoured homes in downtown Natchez.

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3 Cheryl Tipton-Emfinger, Deanna Bowser, Ed Bowser, and Susan Cassagne Alice Kuiper, Kathie Swofford, Maria Bowser, and Lela Jeanne Nall Friends of the Library Board: front—Nancy Williams and Maria Bowser; middle—Edwidge Mead, Linda Ogden, Susanne Tomlinson, Jeanette Warren, Judy Wiggins, and Virginia O›Beirne; back—Alice Kuiper, Candy Strader, Marcia Adams, Kathie Swofford, Corinne Randazzo, Lela Jeann Nall, Duncan McFarlane, Faye Weatherly, and Ella Young Faye Weatherly and Faye Lehmann Susan Cassagne and Nancy Williams John de la Tour and Duncan McFarlane Linda Ogden and Casey Hughes

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Friends of the Library Membership Party | Natchez, MS | THE social SCENE

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Duncan McFarlane, Linda McFarlane, Candy Strader, and Jeanette Warren Alice Kuiper, Jeanette Warren, and Susanne Tomlinson Anne White, Rusty Marks, and Colleen Wilkins Kathie Swofford, Virginia O›Beirne, and Danny O’Beirne Marcia Adams and Betty Lou Hicks Sarah Smith and Susan Cassagne Marcia Adams and Julie Kendall Page Ogden and Lela Jeanne Nall

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THE social SCENE | Vicksburg, MS | Junior Auxiliary of Vicksburg

Junior Auxiliary of Vicksburg Junior Auxiliary of Vicksburg, Mississippi, chapter members attended the National Association of Junior Auxiliaries (NAJA) Southern Area Meeting at Ridgeland High School in Ridgeland, Mississippi, on September 22, 2012. Junior Auxiliary is a national non-profit organization that encourages members to render charitable services which are beneficial to the general public with particular emphasis on children.

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Kristy Cole, Mary Katherine Ellis, Laurie Prescott, Christin Matthews, Jennifer Grey, Carolyn Bradley, Sarah Nasif, and Molly Procell Carolyn Bradley and Mary Katherine Ellis Mary Katherine Ellis, Jennifer Grey, Sarah Nasif, and Carolyn Bradley

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Farewell Luncheon for Kay Young | Natchez, MS | THE social SCENE

Farewell Luncheon for Kay Young Members of the Ferriday Garden Club in Ferriday, Louisiana, and other friends said, “Good Bye,” to Kay Young at a luncheon held recently at The Castle restaurant on the grounds of antebellum Dunleith Plantation in Natchez, Mississippi.

Kay and her husband, Russ, are moving to Alpena, Michigan, to their retirement home on Lake Huron.

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Front—Patsy Eames, Josie Craig, and Carolyn Marshall; middle—Sandra Gibson, Anne Dyer, Kay Young, and Martha Perkins; back—Nancy King, Mary Lou Perkins, Dianne Watson, Joy Irvin, Joline Killen, Sherrill Sasser, Mary Beth Whitehead, and Jane Vaughan Sandra Gibson and Ann Dyer Kay Young, Nancy King, and Patsy Eames Josie Craig and Mary Beth Whitehead

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Random Jottings by Patricia Taylor

Saffron Walden and Audley End, Essex, England Saffron Walden Parish church

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he picturesque medieval town of Saffron Walden, known until the Middle Ages simply as Walden or ‘Weala-denu’ (the Valley of Britons or Serfs), is situated amongst some of the finest rolling countryside of Essex. With its narrow streets and ancient houses, Saffron Walden is the quintessential English market town, its overhanging buildings typical of the Middle Ages. The upper stories of some buildings project out low over the pavement; and one can reach to touch the upper floor, a tall man needing to duck to save a broken head. Originally a small Celtic village tucked in the valley, it grew into a prosperous community of Saxonspeaking farmers, merchants, and traders.

Following the Norman Conquest of 1066, the village and surrounding lands were given by William the Conqueror to the de Mandeville family.

Now, the de Mandeville family was the stuff of novels. Walden Castle was built

by Geoffrey de Mandeville sometime between 1125 and 1141, during the civil war

between King Stephen and the Empress Maud (Matilda). Empress Maud was the daughter and legitimate heir of Henry I, but, alas, a women. The Barons baulked at being ruled by a mere female and instead swore allegiance to King Henry’s nephew Stephen of Blois, son of Henry’s sister Adela. Anglo-Saxon chroniclers considered this a period in history “when Christ and his Saints slept” with the land plunged into 19 years of bitter and brutal civil war.1 Whilst Stephen was King, he invested Geoffrey de Mandeville as the First Earl of Essex. Geoffrey began the construction of the Castle at Walden and founded a Benedictine Priory. I will tell you more of that later. When Stephen was captured at Lincoln in 1151, the Earl changed his allegiance to Maud. However, before the year was out, Stephen was released; and Geoffrey returned to his original allegiance.

Whilst Stephen and Matilda fought for the crown, many barons switched sides shamelessly; but Geoffrey was among the worst. He was eventually outlawed by the

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King; and along with rag-tag army of mercenaries, subjected East Anglia to a reign of terror. He seized Ely, made it a fortress, then took Ramsey Abbey as his headquarters, evicting the monks and looting its treasures. From the Abbey, he raided nearby towns, slaughtering whosoever got in his way.

In 1144, he died excommunicate from an arrow wound; and being denied burial, the Knights Templar took him for burial in the Temple Church in London. His son arranged for an effigy to be placed on the floor of the church where it still can be seen today. His son later withdrew the army from the Abbey and paid the monks reparations, but Geoffrey’s place in history as ‘The Robber Baron’ lives on. (This story has to be a jotting of the future).

Once the war was over, it was Maud’s son, Henry FitzEmpress, whom the Barons accepted. He was crowned Henry II in 1154 and ruled an empire so vast it stretched from the borders of Scotland to the Pyrenees. Henry ordered Walden Castle to be made indefensible and later the manor of Walden passed to the de Bohun family.

Civil war was something that Saffron Walden saw again in the seventeenth century. With its leanings toward the Puritan religion and its relatively central location between London and Cambridge, it found itself at the centre of the English Civil War (1642-1651), a conflict this time between the Parliamentarians (Roundheads) and Royalists (Cavaliers).2 In the spring of 1647, the New Model Army Headquarters was set up at The New Sun Inn in Saffron Walden and became a base for LieutenantGeneral of Horse, Oliver Cromwell. The parliamentarian forces were internally divided at that time; and Cromwell was working to bring them back to their original purpose, that of the need of the middle classes to bring about reform which challenged the

Right—A medieval home of Saffron Walden Below—The New Sun Inn, Oliver Cromwell’s Headquaters

prerogative of the king and the theory of divine right. Sadly sons fought fathers and brothers fought brother, leaving a wake of misery and horror across the nation.3 However, to return to my story....

The East Anglican cloth industry greatly increased the wealth of Walden and the Priory, wool being their main crop. In the fourteenth century saffron (Crocus sativus) was first cultivated in the East of England. This beautiful little plant preferred the chalk-based soil of the Essex

countryside to the rich farm lands of its surrounding counties, and Walden soon became the capital of saffron production in England. This rare and precious flower brought wealth to the area; and to reflect this influence, Walden changed the flower’s name to Saffron Walden. As the Middle Ages ended, demand for saffron in England decreased. It was labor intensive and as the spice trade with East grew, saffron growing in England slowly came to an end.

As I mentioned earlier, in 1139 the de Mandeville’s founded a Benedictine Priory just outside the town at Brookwalden, now known as Audley End, between the river and the main road from London to Cambridge. Geoffrey de Mandeville chose this site so the monks could give hospitality to wayfarers, and still be close to his castle, endowing the priory with wealthy tithes and property.

Building and endowing priories was not unusual in the Middle Ages. The aristocracy of medieval England was often excessively wealthy and fervently religious, thousands of abbeys and priories were built around the country at this time. These provided religious retreats and a place for burial (not for Geoffrey unfortunately). The monks or nuns provided medical care and fed the poor and destitute. Also many abbots and prioresses were astute business people, making a great deal of money, especially from their wool clips. In 1190, Richard the First elevated the Priory at Brookwalden to the status of Abbey and over the centuries the subsequent Earls of Essex, now the de Bohun’s, were buried there.

In common with all religious houses in England, Walden Abbey was dissolved by Henry VIII, and the abbey surrendered on 22 March 1538. Five days later, the Abbey and its lands were granted to his chancellor Sir Thomas Audley, later, Baron Audley, who converted the monastic buildings into a house. Now, Thomas Audley played a pivotal role in the court of Henry VIII, rising to the rank of Speaker of the House of Commons and later to Lord Chancellor.

As Lord Chancellor, Thomas Audley presided over the assembly styled as the Reformation Parliament, abolishing Papal jurisdiction, transferring religious authority from the Pope to the English Crown, and declaring several of the King’s children illegitimate. He supported the King’s divorce from Catherine of Aragon, encouraged the King’s marriage to Anne Boleyn, brought about her execution, and helped dissolve Henry’s marriage to Anne of Cleves. He was a King’s man through and through, making him very wealthy indeed.

At his death in 1544, Thomas Audley was

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Right—Audley End Below—The pond garden at Audley End

buried in Saffron Walden Church, his tomb of black marble still visible today.

The property then descended via his daughter to Thomas Howard, Fourth Duke of Norfolk (1536-1572). Now, he came to sticky end. He was executed in 1572 for conspiring with Mary Queen of Scots to overthrow the throne. Thomas Audley’s second son, another Thomas, briefly redeemed the family’s reputation through his bravery whilst fighting the Spanish Armada in 1588 and was created Baron Howard

of Walden in 1597 by Queen Elizabeth I. When James VI of Scotland came to the throne as King James I of England in 1603, he raised Baron Howard of Walden to Earl of Suffolk and appointed him Lord Chamberlain and, later, Lord Treasurer in 1614—a move, I think, the King lived to regret. Thomas Howard began a vast reconstruction of Audley End to rival most crown palaces at a cost of £200,000, money the King had unwittingly contributed.

Thomas was relieved of his duties in 1616

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under suspicion of embezzlement. He and his Countess were found guilty and sent to the Tower of London. After payment of a huge fine, they retired to Audley End, to live out their lives in disgrace.

In 1626, Thomas Howard died. His heir, Lord Theophilus Howard, Second Earl of Suffolk, came to Audley End. I mentioned him in my random jottings of Maldon in Essex. Lord Theophilus was a founder of The London Virginia Company that in 1607 established the Jamestown settlement, laying the foundation for the colonization of America. We could say that with this gentleman and through his successors we come full circle in the settlement of the Americas and their final passing into the hands of its people after the War of Independence.

So, what is the connection? You see, the house eventually fell into debt; and in 1668, Lord Theophilus Howard’s son, James Howard, Third Earl of Suffolk, sold the house for £50,000 to King Charles II, who wanted a palace close to Newmarket Race course. The house stayed with the crown until King William III, who disliked the house and returned it to the Suffolks in 1701 for a fee, of course.

Over the next fifty years, they reduced the house to a more manageable size, creating what is now one of the most significant Jacobean Houses in England.

When the Tenth Earl of Suffolk died in 1745, childless and intestate, the estate was divided amongst the Howard family.

Elizabeth Griffin, Countess of Portsmouth and granddaughter of the Seventh Earl of Suffolk, bought the property from the heirs, leaving it finally to John Griffin Whitwell, First Baron Braybrooke, her sister Anne’s eldest son. When John inherited in 1762, he brought in Robert Adam and Capability Brown to remodel the house and gardens.

The connection comes with Richard Neville, Third Baron Braybrooke (17831858), John’s third cousin. Richard married Jane Cornwallis, the granddaughter of Charles Cornwallis, First Marquis Cornwallis KG, well known to all American History enthusiasts for his formal surrender on 19 October 1781 of 8,000 British soldiers and seamen to a French and American force at Yorktown, Virginia,

bringing the American Revolution to a close.3 Richard and Jane lived all their married lives at Audley End and their descendents still live there today.

This beautiful mansion faces full west, the setting sun turning its cream-coloured stones to a glorious golden red hue. A large lawn area runs in front of the house, cut in two by the river Cam. During the summer evenings, concerts are held on this lawn— the orchestra in front of the house and the audience on blankets or in garden chairs, their picnic baskets and champagne at the ready as they are prepared to spend an hour or so listening to the strains of Mozart, Chopin, or maybe Bach under a starlit sky.

The concert finale always includes a fireworks display that appears in the night sky behind the house, illuminating it in a myriad of colors.

The gardens at the rear of the house are magnificent whatever time of the year one visits. Spring sees them filled to bursting with tulips, hyacinths, forgetme-nots, and wallflowers, later to be replaced with selections such as peonies, hollyhocks, delphiniums, and a riot of roses trained over cleverly bent, wire trellises to form low arches. At right angles to the house and some way along the driveway is the stable block, behind which lies the kitchen gardens. This area served the house with vegetables, fruit, and flowers from the time of Lady Portsmouth until the Second World War. Today the kitchen gardens are organically managed and supply fresh produce to the restaurant as well as fruit, vegetables, plants, and herbs for sale at the visitors shop. Walking back towards the house from the kitchen gardens, one passes through the pond garden where rectangular flower borders, interspersed with lily ponds, front the river Cam. As the path continues over the small river bridge, across the parkland and back towards the house, huge trees dominate the scene in casual profusion across the park, so typical of Capability Brown’s softer approach to landscape gardening.

Nearer the house huge Yews, twisted and bent with age, line a walkway to the domestic quarters on the northern side of the house. The kitchen, built in 1882 to replace the original destroyed by fire, is a large, high-ceilinged room, glistening with the shine of copper saucepans and the blackened bank of working coal stoves which line one side of the room. The scullery lies beyond where dishes were washed and poultry and game plucked. Next door is the

dairy and dairymaid’s sitting room, built in 1764. The sitting room was actually meant for the lady of the house to take tea whilst supervising the dairy. It seems helping in the dairy was considered to be fashionable employment for eighteenth-century ladies.

Next door is the laundry room; and opposite is a brew house, now the shop.

During holiday times and special weekends, the docents in the servants’ quarters and stables dress in early nineteenth-century costume, playing their parts with the housekeeper looking on. Whilst telling stories about their lives at the ‘big house’ and the expected arrival of her ladyship, they bake cakes and scones in the large cooking ranges; and dairy maids demonstrate making butter pats for the tea table.

In the stables, the grooms are mucking out and rubbing down their horses whilst chattering to you about their latest romances with the housemaid or the dairymaid. Wonderful fun.

Interestingly, during the Second World War, Audley End was the headquarters of the Polish Section of the Special Operations Executive that trained soldiers to be dropped into their German-occupied homeland. Of the 316 men and 1 woman

dropped into Poland, 108 died. A memorial to them sits in the gardens.

In 1948, English Heritage bought Audley End House for the Nation from the Ninth Lord Braybrooke. His son, the Tenth Baron Braybrooke, still resides on the estate today. Being something of a railway fan, he built a miniature steam railway, running through acres of woods to the south of the house, and constructed related railway crossings, stations, and tunnels for his miniature trains to carry children (and we grownups) through the woods where in the glades teddy bears can be seen having picnics.

I could tell you so much more; but instead, do come and visit, especially in the summertime. See the roses and stay for the open air concert. Until next time………………

My thanks to Mrs. R. K. Coe for her photographs of Saffron Walden~ 1. http://www.britannia.com/history/docs/ asintro2.html 2. http://ecws.org.uk/cms/index.php 3. http://www.history.com/this-day-in-history /cornwallis-surrenders-at-yorktown

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THE social SCENE | Natchez, MS | Natchez-Adams County Chamber of Commerce Gala

Natchez-Adams County Chamber of Commerce Gala The Natchez-Adams County Chamber of Commerce held its annual Commerce Gala at the Natchez, Misssissippi, Convention Center on October 9, 2012. Guest speaker was Robert St. John, Culinary Chef, author, and restaurant owner from Hattiesburg, Mississippi.

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Simmons and Chad Huber, Bill and Martha Salters, and Tammy and Kenny Jackson Mitzi and Jake Middleton Laura and Scott McLemore Nicole Speed and Elaine Gemmell Rene’ Adams, Tate Hobdy, and Frances Cothren Robert St. John and Charlie Speed James Coleman, Eric and Jenny Robinson, Dr. Fred Sandifer, and Sue Loy Ryan Wingfield, Chuck and Julie Caldwell, and Nancy Kuehnle

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Natchez-Adams County Chamber of Commerce Gala | Natchez, MS | THE social SCENE

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Dale Ross, Susan and John Hudson, and Shannon and Zack Jex Doug Charboneau with John and Marcia McCullough Ryan Wingfield, Sheriff Chuck Mayfield, Sylvia Mayfield, and David Gardner Sim Mosby, Julie Caldwell, and Betsy Mosby Dicky Laird, Sonya Blaney, Billie Laird, and Diane Laird Rachel Garber, Claire Cothren, and Kathy Garber Hayden Kaiser, Becky and Mark Fortenbery, and David Gardner

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THE social SCENE | Natchez, MS | Natchez-Adams County Chamber of Commerce Gala

16 Angela and Clay Gibson with Katie McCarstle

17 Fred Parker, Shannon Murray, and Shannon Parker

18 Chris and Skeeter Hutchins 19 Judy and Cappy Stahlman 20Chris and Emily Maxwell

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THE social SCENE | Brookhaven, MS | Benefit Dinner for Congressman Greg Harper

Benefit Dinner for Congressman Greg Harper A benefit dinner was held for Congressman Greg Harper at the home of Jimmy Morton in Brookhaven, Mississippi, during the month of September.

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Sidney and Greg Harper with Senator Sally Doty Celeste Carty, Karen Braden, and Bettie Dixon Beverly Britt, Betty Ann Perkins, Bill Perkins, and Phyllis Sanders Betty Ann Perkins and Sally Lampton Bill Perkins and Constance Cowart

Benefit Dinner for Congressman Greg Harper | Brookhaven, MS | THE social SCENE

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John Roberts, Justice Mike Randolph, Cindy Moore, and Charlie Jackson Kristen Windham, Stanley Shows, and Dott Cannon John Roberts and Cindy Moore Greg Harper and Will Thibodeaux Mike Smith and Bill Sones Cindy Moore and Mike Jinks

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In the Kitchen...

Cheryl’s Friends and Family Becky Junkin’s Scrumptious Selections. . .

Sweet Potato Ravioli with Mustard Greens and Country Ham (from my daughter-in-law’s brother, Chris Wills, The Perpetual Palate) 1 package small-size Wonton Wraps 2 sweet potatoes 1 cup Ricotta cheese 1 tablespoon bacon fat

1/2 tablespoon chopped flat-leaf parsley 1 cup coarsely chopped mustard greens 1 ounce country ham, julienned 1 tablespoon unsalted butter 1 tablespoon freshly grated ParmigianoReggiano Kosher salt and cracked black pepper to taste **Use extra for garnishing as well Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Bake sweet potatoes in oven for 1 hour or until tender. Remove from oven; peel and mash and set aside. You will need 1/2 cup of mashed sweet potatoes for recipe.

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Combine 1/2 cup mashed potatoes, ricotta cheese, chives, and parsley in a bowl, stirring well to blend. Place 1 tablespoon filling in the middle of one square wonton wrap, and then moisten the outer edges of wrap with dampened fingertip. Bring the opposite corners together to form a triangle and press the edges firmly to seal filling inside wrap. Take fork and gently seal edges all around ravioli. Place on a lightly floured baking sheet. Repeat with remainder of filling.

Prepare an ice-bath to blanch greens in. Place greens in a pot of boiling water for 1 minute. Drain and transfer to ice-bath to stop cooking process and keep greens bright green.

Drain and squeeze greens dry; then chop. Set aside.

Bring a large stockpot of salted water to a boil.

Meanwhile, heat the bacon fat in a small saucepan over medium heat until it melts. Add mustard greens and briefly sauté to coat in fat. Add the ham, stirring to incorporate, and season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and cover to keep warm.

Add the ravioli to the pot of boiling water and cook

until tender, about 3 minutes. Remove the ravioli with a slotted spoon and add to the warm greens and ham. Add the butter and a small ladle of water from the hot pasta water and gently toss until butter is melted and incorporated. Season to taste.

Transfer the ravioli and greens to plates and sprinkle with Parmigiano. Serves 4.

Apple Brine for Turkey (I use an ice chest for the brining process.)

2 quarts apple juice 1 pound brown sugar (light or dark) 1 cup Diamond Crystal Kosher Salt (Substitute ¾ cup Morton Kosher Salt or ½ cup table salt for Diamond Crystal.)

3 quarts cold water 3 oranges, quartered 4 ounces fresh ginger, unpeeled and thinly sliced 15 whole cloves 6 bay leaves 6 large garlic cloves, peeled and crushed Combine apple juice, brown sugar, and salt in a large saucepan. Bring to a boil over high heat, stirring to dissolve. Boil for one minute; remove from heat, let mixture come to room temperature, then refrigerate to 40 degrees.

In a large non-reactive container, combine the apple juice mixture with the remaining ingredients. When adding the oranges, squeeze each piece to release the juice into the container; then drop in the peel.

Put the turkey in the brine, breast side down. If necessary, place a heavy plate or bowl on top to keep the bird submerged.

Brine the turkey for 24 hours. You may wish to stir the solution 2 to 3 times during the brining process. I’m not sure if this is necessary or if it actually does anything, but I like to do it anyway.

Since brining does not preserve meat, the turkey and the brine solution must be kept below 40 degrees throughout the entire brining process.

AIR DRY THE TURKEY: After brining, rinse the turkey thoroughly inside and out, and pat dry with paper towels. Place on a rack over a rimmed baking sheet and allow to air-dry overnight (8 to 12 hours) in the refrigerator. This helps create crispy skin during cooking.

Shrimp and Grits Dressing (The Ultimate Southern Thanksgiving Cookbook by Southern Living) 1 pound peeled, medium-size raw shrimp (51/60 count) 3 cups chicken broth 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon ground red pepper 1 cup uncooked regular grits 1/2 cup butter 3 large eggs, lightly beaten 1 red bell pepper, diced 1 cup fine, dry breadcrumbs

1 cup chopped green onions 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Devein shrimp, if desired. Bring broth and next 2 ingredients to a boil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Whisk in grits, and return to a boil; reduce heat to low, and stir in butter. Cover and simmer, stirring occasionally, 10 minutes or until liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat.

Stir together eggs and next 4 ingredients in a large bowl. Gradually stir about 1/4 of hot grits mixture into egg mixture; add egg mixture to remaining hot grits mixture, stirring constantly. Stir in shrimp until blended. Pour grits mixture into a lightly greased 11-inch x 7-inch baking dish. Bake at 325 degrees for 55 minutes to 1 hour or until mixture is set. Let stand 10 minutes.

Makes 6 to 8 servings.

Salad with Maple Syrup Vinaigrette SALAD: Salad Greens 1 small log of goat cheese, crumbled 1 package dried cranberries or craisins 1/2 cup pecans, roasted and chopped Mix together and toss with maple syrup vinaigrette. Serves 4-6 MAPLE SYRUP VINAIGRETTE: Sea salt and freshly ground pepper to taste 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard 2 tablespoons grade B maple syrup 1 teaspoon dried sweet basil 1/2 cup olive oil Whisk together the salt, pepper and balsamic vinegar until the salt dissolves. Stir

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in the mustard, syrup, and basil. Whisk constantly while drizzling in oil; the dressing will form an emulsion and thicken.

Refrigerate until ready to use. Bring up to room temperature before serving since the oil will harden in the refrigerator. Makes roughly 3/4 cup.

Pumpkin Stew in a Pumpkin 1 medium sugar pumpkin 1 large onion, diced 3 tablespoons unsalted butter 2 cups of 1” cubes cut from fresh French bread 2 garlic cloves, minced 3 cups mixed fresh mushrooms, cleaned, de-stemmed, sliced ¼” thick 3 cups Gruyere cheese, grated 4 strips cooked bacon, crumbled 1 container crème fraiche or ½ pint heavy cream Cut the top off of the pumpkin as if you were carving a pumpkin. Scrape out the seeds, being careful not to remove the pumpkin flesh. Save the top of the pumpkin.

In a large skillet, sauté the onion and 2 tablespoons of the butter over medium heat for a few minutes, and then add the fresh bread cubes and toss. Stir for a few minutes and then add garlic. Toss the mixture until the bread begins to brown. Add more butter if needed. Set aside.

In a separate pan, sauté 1 tablespoon of butter with the mushrooms. Cook until the mushrooms have released their juices and begun to re-absorb. Season with salt and pepper and set aside.

To assemble the pumpkin for cooking, layer bread mixture, cheese, mushrooms, a bit of the bacon, and a thin layer of cream.

Keep layering until the pumpkin is filled.

End with a layer of cheese.

Put the pumpkin lid back on. Set the filled pumpkin in a casserole dish that will support its sides. Fill a roasting pan with 2 inches of water, and place the pumpkin in the casserole dish in the water. Bake for 3 hours at 200 degrees (pre-heat). Check until the pumpkin pulp is soft enough to spoon. Serves 4 to 6.

Festive Cran-Orange Cake CAKE: 1 package yellow cake mix with pudding 1 cup fresh orange juice, carton or squeezed 1/2 cup vegetable oil Page 58 { November 2012 { Bluffs & Bayous

1/4 cup granulated sugar 4 large eggs 1 cup chopped sweetened dried cranberries GLAZE: 1 cup confectioner’s sugar sifted 3 tablespoons orange juice GARNISH: 10 to 15 long, thin strips orange zest Extra cranberries Heat oven on 350 degrees and grease pan. Mix all ingredients except cranberries. Fold in cranberries and place in wellsprayed Bundt pan. Bake for 45 to 47 minutes. Cool slightly and removed from pan.

While cake is cooling, mix all glaze ingredients together with a wooden spoon. Pour glaze over top of cake and let it run down the sides. Use zest and cranberries to decorate the top.

Cranberry Orange Muffins 2-1/2 cups flour (I use whole wheat pastry flour from Rainbow.)

1 cup sugar (I use a cane sugar from Florida.)

2 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 cup (1 stick) Fleischmann’s unsalted margarine, melted and cooled* 1/2 cup Egg Beaters or 2 large eggs (I use 2 egg whites.)

3/4 cup orange juice (I use soy milk or other fruit juices.)

1 tablespoon grated orange peel (I use vanilla extract on others.)

1 cup dried cranberries (I use any other dried fruit Rainbow has as organic, optional topping.)

1/4 cup sugar 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, optional topping In a medium bowl, stir together flour, sugar, and baking soda. Set aside. In a separate bowl, stir together Fleischmann’s margarine, Egg Beaters, orange juice and orange peel. Stir liquid mixture into dry mixture until just combined. Stir in cranberries. If using topping, stir together 1/4 cup sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.

Spoon batter into 12 paper-lined muffin tins. Sprinkle topping on top, if desired.

Bake at 350 degrees for 20 to 25 minutes or until lightly browned and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean.

Makes 12 muffins. *I get the Fleischman’s lactose free from The Markets, the health food store has soy butter that I get when I can.

Pumpkin Muffins (Letters, Gourmet, November 2006, adapted from the American Club, in Kohler, Wisconsin) 1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 cup canned, solid-pack pumpkin (from a 15-ounce can) 1/3 cup vegetable oil 2 large eggs 1 teaspoon pumpkin-pie spice 1-1/4 cups plus 1 tablespoon sugar 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon cinnamon Put oven rack in middle position, and preheat oven to 350 degrees. Put liners in muffin cups. Whisk together pumpkin, oil, eggs, pumpkin-pie spice, 1-1/4 cups sugar, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl until smooth; then whisk in flour mixture until just combined. Stir together cinnamon and remaining 1 tablespoon sugar in another bowl. Divide batter among muffin cups, each about 3/4 full; then sprinkle tops with cinnamon-sugar mixture. Bake until puffed and golden brown and wooden pick or skewer inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean, about 25 to 30 minutes.

Cool in pan on a rack for 5 minutes; then transfer muffins from pan to rack and cool to warm or room temperature.

Some of Cheryl’s Soup Choices . . .

Spiced Butternut Squash Soup (from LuvMyFamily) 3 pounds butternut squash, halved and seeded 2 tablespoons butter 1 medium onion, sliced 1 leek, sliced 2 cloves garlic, sliced 2 (49.5 ounce) cans chicken broth 2 large russet potatoes, peeled and quartered 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1/8 teaspoon ground allspice 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/8 teaspoon ground ginger Salt and pepper to taste 1/2 cup sherry wine 1 cup half-and-half cream 1/2 cup sour cream (optional) Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Centigrade). Pour

a thin layer of water in a baking dish or a cookie sheet with sides. Place the squash halves cut side down on the dish. Bake for about 40 minutes or until a fork can easily pierce the flesh. Cool slightly; then remove the peel. Set aside.

Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, leek, and garlic; and sauté for a few minutes until tender. Pour the chicken broth into the pot.

Add the potatoes, and bring to a boil. Cook for about 20 minutes or until soft. Add the squash, and mash with the potatoes until chunks are small. Use an immersible hand blender to puree the soup, or transfer to a blender or food processor in batches, and puree until smooth. Return to the pot.

Season the soup with cayenne pepper, allspice, nutmeg, ginger, salt, and pepper; then stir in the sherry and half-and-half cream. Heat through, but do not boil. Ladle into bowls, and top with a dollop of sour cream. Makes 8 servings.

The following recipes are from “The 3 Healthy Soups for Staying Slim,” by Tiffany Tse, 3SHAPE magazine.

Northwestern-style Lentil Chili (Recipe provided by Maris Callahan, food writer for DietsInReview.com and InGoodTaste) This hearty and healthy stew gets added zing from a dash of chili powder, but the recipe’s real all-star ingredient is a humble legume: lentils! The fiber-rich lentil is low in fat and helps keep the calorie count down (191 calories per serving).

Olive oil cooking spray 1 cup diced onion 1 clove garlic, minced 4 cups low-sodium V8 1 potato, washed and diced 1 cup dry lentils 1 cup carrots, diced 2 teaspoons chili powder 6 tablespoons nonfat sour cream Generously spray a large pot or Dutch Oven with olive oil spray, or use a teaspoon of olive oil. Heat over medium-high heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until lightly golden, about 2 or 3 minutes. Add the rest of the ingredients, and bring to a boil.

Cover and simmer on low until the lentils and vegetables are tender, around 20-25 minutes. Serve chili in bowls and garnish the top of each one with a tablespoon of Bluffs & Bayous { November 2012 { Page 59

sour cream. We recommend serving this chili with your favorite steamed vegetables. Makes 6 servings.

Mushroom and Barley Soup

Cozy up to this warm mushroom and barley soup, which calls for only a handful of easy-to-find ingredients. Nutty grains of barley give the soup a chewy texture, and plenty of veggies ensure this soup remains a satisfying low-cal treat.

2 tablespoons olive oil 1 yellow onion, chopped 3 carrots, peeled and chopped 3 cups mushrooms, sliced 3 cans low-sodium vegetable broth 1 cup barley, cooked Salt and pepper to taste Heat the olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Add onion and carrots, cooking until soft. Add mushrooms and cook until soft.

Then add vegetable broth and barley, simmering for 10 minutes. Stir until mixture is blended. Add salt and pepper to taste.

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Red Pepper Bisque Crunchy, sweet bell peppers and crisp yellow onions are liquefied into a brilliantly colored puree. Teeming with antioxidants and clocking in at only 60 calories per serving, this tasty concoction is truly healthy comfort food. Make it a complete meal with a side of whole grains and mixed greens.

1 cup yellow onions 2 tablespoons garlic, chopped 24 ounces vegetable stock 3 cups red bell peppers 1/4 cup basil, chopped 2 tablespoons fresh thyme 1 teaspoon sea salt 1/2 teaspoon black pepper In a pot, sautĂŠ sliced onions and chopped garlic until soft. Add vegetable stock and roasted bell peppers. Bring to a boil; then reduce to a simmer. Season soup with salt and pepper. Fill a blender half full, and blend until smooth. Repeat, blending until all soup is blended. Reheat soup and serve hot. Makes 6 servings.

Pike County Arts Council Honors William Dunlap | McComb, MS | THE social SCENE

Pike County Arts Council Honors William Dunlap Mississippi artist William Dunlap was honored by the Pike County Arts Council on September 27, 2012, at the State Theatre in McComb, Mississippi. Dunlap gave a lecture and held a book-signing while guests viewed an exhibit of his work. William Dunlap has distinguished himself as an artist, arts commentator, and educator during a career that has spanned more than three decades. Photos by Elise Parker

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Michale Gattuso with Nancy and Carl Lazenby Patsy Carruth and Gidge Clayton

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NOVEMBER up

& coming! PREMIER EVENTS

November 7 - 10 35th Annual Antiques Forum Natchez, Mississippi The Pilgrimage Garden Club (PGC) in Natchez, Mississippi, proudly announces the 35th Annual Antiques Forum “Antiques and War Times: The Spirit of 1812,” set for November 7 through November 10, 2012, in historic Natchez, Mississippi. Mimi Miller, Executive Director of the Historic Natchez Foundation, recently stated, “Natchez is the perfect milieu for a symposium with a material culture focus. The city is nationally famous for its wealth of architecturally significant buildings and grand interiors, preserved as evidence of the opulent life of the city’s planting society during the first twothirds of the nineteenth century.”

This year’s champion antique-and-arthistory event includes scholarly lectures by renowned experts such as repeat contributor Wendell Garrett, Editor at Large, The Magazine Antiques; Betty Monkman, Curator of the White House, Retired; and

Daniel Brooks, Director of Arlington Historic House, Retired. Other presenters include Robert Leath; James Birchfield, Ph.D., and Natchez’s own Elizabeth Boggess, Ph.D. In addition to this year’s series of lectures at the Natchez Convention Center, the PGC is excited to announce the inclusion of a day-long tour of local historic homes along the Natchez Trace as well as a Milk Punch Tour at Historic Auburn, Cocktail Reception at National Historic Landmark Stanton Hall, and sunset Cocktails and Cochon de lait at Historic Brandon Hall.

The Pilgrimage Garden Club 35th Annual Antiques Forum continues to create a quintessential learning environment to educate and arouse all patrons with a love of history, art, and antiques both local and national.

The event is sponsored by the Pilgrimage Historical Association with assistance from members of the Pilgrimage Garden Club.

Ticket price: $275.00 per person. Some events are available separately. For a full

price list, brochure, reservations, or more information, contact Forum Registrar Jan Scarborough at 601-445-7479 or www. natchezantiquesforum.org, or Natchez Pilgrimage Tours at www.natchezpilgrimage.com.

November 8 - 10 Angels on the Bluff Natchez, Mississippi On November 8, 9, and 10, the Natchez City Cemetery Association of Natchez, Mississippi, invites you to join us for the thirteenth anniversary of our annual fundraiser, Angels on the Bluff. The beautiful Natchez City Cemetery will serve as the stage for dramatic vignettes and musical performances that bring to life some of the city’s most interesting residents from years past.

The evening begins at the Natchez Visitor Center (640 South Canal Street) where you

will board a bus at your reserved ticket time. Our enthusiastic and knowledgeable guides will accompany you to your destination where they will share interesting facts about our historic cemetery as they lead you along candlelit avenues under moonlighted oaks to each character’s presentation.

Tickets went on sale August 1, 2012, at the Natchez Visitors Center. Plan to purchase your tickets early since they sell out quickly. Call the Center at 601-446-6345 for tickets or go online to www.visitnatchez.org for more information.

This year’s entertainment: THE WAR OF 1812—The Natchez City Cemetery is the final resting place for several individuals who served in the War of 1812. In tribute to the bicentennial of this historic event, our own Terry Trovato and band will delight you with a musical tribute honoring General Ferdinand L. H. Claiborne, Major Henry Chotard, and Captain James Campbell Wilkins.

STEPHEN ODELL—New York native Stephen Odell arrived in Natchez in the

mid-1840s and soon became one of the most successful gunsmiths in the region.

Today, his custom-made, silver mounted and engraved rifles and derringers are highly sought after by avid gun collectors. Longtime “Angels” presenter Rusty Jenkins returns to portray Odell and entertain you as only he can.

MARGARET STEWART—A striking marble angel marks the gravesite of local belle Margaret Stewart who died tragically at the age of seventeen. Veteran “Angels” actors will recreate the lavish funeral arranged by her grieving parents, Mr. and Mrs. William Percy Stewart, upon her untimely death in 1907.

DR. CHARLES H. DUBS—Philadelphiaborn Charles H. Dubs was a well-known dental surgeon in mid-nineteenth-century Natchez. The elegant brick townhouse that served as his office and residence still stands at 311 North Pearl. Popular “Angels” presenter Dr. Doug Broome returns to portray Dr. Dubs and reveal a longstanding Dubs family mystery.

CLARENCE “BUD” SCOTT—Bud Scott, one of the finest musicians ever to call Natchez home, led one of the most popular dance bands in the Miss-Lou in the early twentieth century. We guarantee that

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PREMIER EVENTS up local musician Tony Fields’ portrayal of this legendary musician will have you doing the shimmy.

DICK DANA and OCTAVIA DOCKERY— The “Goat Castle Murder” has captured the interest of mystery lovers both near and far for nearly eighty years. Eccentrics Richard “Dick” Dana, son of Reverend Charles B. Dana, and Octavia Dockery, daughter of Brigadier General Thomas P. Dockery, stood accused in 1932 of murdering their reclusive neighbor, Jennie Surget Merrill. Reports of their sensational trial made headlines in newspapers around the country. Actors Sam Jones and Sue Burkhalter will bring these colorful characters to life.

SECOND LIEUTENANT AARON “TIP” STANTON, CSA—Historians have dubbed Aaron “Tip” Stanton, who served under General John C. Breckenridge, the finest horseman in the Army of Tennessee. Adams County Supervisor David Carter and his horse will dazzle you with their presentation of Lieutenant Stanton’s story.

& coming! NOVEMBER

November 15 “International Crochet” Natchez, MS Each month the Rolland Golden Gallery hosts “International Crochet,” a look at the history, tradition, and fine art of crochet from around the world. In November, the focus will be on China and Amigurumi—threedimensional dolls. This highly popular technique of creating whimsical creatures has caught on like wild fire; and now, just in time for Christmas, is the perfect time to learn! A technique demonstration will take place, and guests will receive a simple pattern to attempt. Amidst the yarn and hooks will be Chinese wine and refreshments! You don’t have to crochet to come; but if you do, you’re welcome to bring a ball of yarn and a hook and to raise your glass while nibbling on goodies. This event takes place from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 15, at the Rolland Golden Gallery, located at 419 Main Street, Natchez, Mississippi. $25/pp; pre-registration requested. Contact (985) 273-9090 or lambert_ carrie@yahool.com to acquire more information or to reserve your seat.

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NOVEMBER up

& coming!

Through November Hollywood Comes to Natchez: A Civil War Film Series Natchez Visitors Center Theater Natchez, MS Every second Saturday 4:00 pm / Free 601-446-1289 www.colin.edu/nlcc/film-series

Through November 4 The Great Gatsby New Stage Theatre Jackson, MS 1100 Carlisle Street Time and ticket prices vary. www.visitjackson.org / www.newstagetheatre.com

Through November 24 Trailer McQuilkin: An Uncommon Beauty Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art Biloxi, MS Tues. - Sat. / 10:00 am - 5:00 pm 228-374-5547 curatorofcollections@georgeohr.org www.geargeohr.org

Through November 24 Geoff Mitchell: Chaos at the Confessional Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art Biloxi, MS Tues. - Sat. / 10:00 am - 5:00 pm 228-374-5547 curatorofcollections@georgeohr.org www.geargeohr.org

Through November 11 2012 State Fair of Louisiana Louisiana State Fairgrounds Shreveport, LA 3701 Hudson Avenue 318-635-1361 www.louisianatravel.com

Through December 1 The Art of Eugene Martin: A Great Concept Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art Biloxi, MS Tues. - Sat. / 10:00 am - 5:00 pm 228-374-5547 curatorofcollections@geargeohr.org www.geargeohr.org Through December 2 “Mardi Gras Shipwreck: Recovered Cache c. 1812” West Baton Rouge Museum Port Allen, LA 842 North Jefferson Avenue 225-336-2422 / 888-881-6811 www.westbatonrougemuseum.com Through January 7 “Our Lives, Our Stories, America’s Greatest Generation” West Baton Rouge Museum Port Allen, LA 842 North Jefferson Avenue / Free 225-336-2422 / 888-881-6811 www.westbatonrougemuseum.org Through January 13 To Paint and Pray: The Art & Life of William R. Hollingsworth, Jr. Mississippi Museum of Art Jackson, MS 380 South Lamar Street Prices vary.

601-960-1515 www.msmuseumart.org

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up & coming! NOVEMBER Through January 13 Artists by Artists Mississippi Museum of Art Jackson, MS 380 South Lamar Street Prices vary.

601-960-1515 www.msmuseumart.org November 1 Rocky Horror Picture Show The Vicksburg Hotel, Coral Room Vicksburg, MS 801 Clay Street 12 am $12 / must be 17+ 601-618-9349 / 601-636-8313 www.westsidetheatrefoundation.com www.visitvicksburg.com November 1 High Note Jam Mississippi Museum of Art Jackson, MS 380 South Lamar Street 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm Free / Cash bar www.msmuseumart.org www.visitjackson.com November 2 & 9 Classics in the Courtyard Southern Cultural Heritage Center Vicksburg, MS 1302 Adams Street 12:00 pm Reservations required by 5:00 pm Thurs.

601-631-2997 www.southernculture.org www.visitvicksburg.com November 3 Clinton Market Day—Main to Main Clinton Courthouse Clinton, MS Carol Shirley / 225-603-9003 www.felicianatourism.org

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NOVEMBER up

& coming!

November 3 Extension Awareness Day Natchez Farmers Market Natchez, MS 199 St. Catherine Street 10:00 am - 1:00 pm 601-442-4648; 601-442-4648 brooks@alcorn.edu

November 3 Pops I: Steve Lippia in Simply Swingin’ Jackson Convention Center Jackson, MS 105 East Pascagoula Street Tickets online 5:30 pm 601-960-1565 www.visitjackson.com www.msorchestra.com November 3 The Baton Rouge Arts Market Downtown Baton Rouge, LA 5th and Main Streets 225-344-8558 www.artsbr.org November 4 Natchez Poetry Society presents Readings on the River Arts Natchez Gallery Natchez, MS 425 Main Street 4:00 pm / Free 601-442-0043 www.visitnatchez.org

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up & coming! NOVEMBER

November 4 Jonathon” Boogie” Long Sunday Park Concert Series Baton Rouge, LA Downtown North Blvd Town Square Noon - 3:00 pm / Free November 6 Mistletoe and Magic All-day shopping open house McComb and Summit, MS Select retailers participating November 6 Music in the City Mississippi Museum of Art Jackson, MS 380 Lamar Street 5:15 pm / Free 601-960-1515 www.visitjackson.com

November 7 - 10 Mistletoe Marketplace Mississippi Trade Mart Jackson, MS 1200 Mississippi Street Tickets / 888-324-0027 601-948-2357 www.visitjackson.com

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NOVEMBER up

& coming!

November 7 - 11 Miss-Lou Patriotic Tribute Natchez Convention Center Natchez, MS 211 Main Street 7:00 -11:00 pm / Free 1-800-647-6724 Miss-loupatriotictribute@hotmail.com www.visitnatchez.org

November 8 Concert Duo: Harpist Heidi Krutze and Cellist Ariel Barnes Concordia Bank Vidalia, LA 7:00 pm

November 8 Marisa Baggett Lecture and Book Signing Southern Cultural Heritage Center Vicksburg, MS 1302 Adams Street 601-631-2997 info@southernculture.org www.southernculture.org www.visitvicksburg.com November 8 Taste of the Trust Brookhaven Recreation Department Brookhaven, MS Hwy 51 North 7:00 p.m.

Live Entertainment Silent Auction Over 20 food booths Tickets $25 in advance or at the door 601-757-4725 Page 68 { November 2012 { Bluffs & Bayous

up & coming! NOVEMBER November 8 - 10 Arsenic and Old Lace Natchez Little Theatre Natchez, MS 319 Linton Avenue / $15 Mon., Wed., Fri., Sat. / 7:30 pm; Sun. / 2 pm 601-442-2233 natchez@bellsouth.net www.natchezlittletheatre.org November 9 - 10 Angels on the Bluff Natchez City Cemetery Natchez, MS 5:00 p.m. / $25 Natchez Visitors Center / 601-446-6345 info@visitnatchez.org www.visitnatchez.org November 10 Masur Museum of Art Fall Festival Masur Museum of Art Monroe, LA 1400 South Grand Street 12 & under / $5 (nonmembers) / $3 (members) 12+ / Free 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm Jenny / 318-329-2237 www.masurmusuem.org November 10 Magnolia Hall Antiques & Yard Sale Antebellum Magnolia Hall Natchez, MS 215 South Pearl Street Refreshments, raffle and hot dog sale 9:00 am - 4:00 pm / $35 Doug Mauro 601-446-2500 www.visitnatchez.org November 10 Harvest Ball Vicksburg Auditorium Vicksburg, MS 901 Monroe Street 6:00 pm - 10:00 pm Tracey Wilson / 601-218-7465 www.vicksburgevents.com www.visitvicksburg.com November 10 Christmas Open House Brookhaven, MS All-day shopping at select retail stores

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NOVEMBER up

& coming!

November 10 1st Annual Veterans’ Parade McComb, MS Delaware Avenue to Railraod Boulevard 9:30 am / Free Tom Gunther / 601-542-5457 Nicki White / 601-248-5720 www.pikeinfo.com November 10 - 11 Wirt Adams’ Raid Into Natchez Civil War Reenactment Historic Jefferson College Natchez, MS 16 Old North Street 10:00 am - 5:00 pm / Free Clark Burkett / 601-442-2901 xavier122175@att.net www.visitnatchez.org

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November 11 In the Footsteps of Audubon Audubon State Historic Site St. Francisville, LA 10:00 am - 2 pm 888-677-2838 / 635-3739 www.stfrancisville.us

November 11 The Creole String Beans Sunday Park Concert Series Baton Rouge, LA Downtown North Boulevard Town Square Noon - 3:00 pm / Free

up & coming! NOVEMBER November 13 Chamber Monthly Business Breakfast St. Andrew’s Senior Center McComb, MS 104 South Front Street 8:00 am November 13 “One Writer’s Garden: New Perspectives from the Authors” Millsaps Arts and Lecture Series Ford Academic Complex Millsaps College Jackson, MS 1701 North State Street 7:00 pm / $10 601-974-1130 www.visitjackson.com November 13 Lebanese Cooking with Lana Southern Cultural Heritage Center Vicksburg, MS 1302 Adams Street $30 members / $35 non-members 5:30 pm 601-631-2997 www.southernculture.org www.visitvicksburg.com November 13 Ole Brook Wind Symphony State Theatre McComb, MS 6:00 pm 601-684-5229; 601-684-5229 parkartscouncil@bellsouth.net November 15 A Holiday Affair Expo Claiborne County Multi-Purpose Building Port Gibson, MS 1703 Bridewell Lane 10:00 am - 1:00 pm / Free 601-437-5011; 601-437-5011 tbell@alcorn.edu November 15 - 18 The Nutcracker: A Christmas Ballet Margaret Martin Performing Arts Center Natchez, MS 64 Homochitto Street Thurs. - Sat. / 7 pm; Sun. / 2 pm Sat.: The Nutcracker Tea Party / 2:00 pm 601-870-8920 natchezballet@yahoo.com Bluffs & Bayous { November 2012 { Page 71

NOVEMBER up

& coming!

November 15 - 18 Disney on Ice: Treasure Trove Mississippi Coliseum / Mississippi State Fairgrounds Jackson, MS Tickets vary. www.visitnjackson.com November 17 EXPLORE! Paper Stained Glass Historic Jefferson College Natchez, MS 16 Old North Street 10:00 am - 11:30 am / $10 Kay McNeil / 601-442-2901 kmcneil@mdah.state.ms.us / www.visitnatchez.org November 20 Unburied Treasures: Greatest Hits Mississippi Museum of Art, Trustmark Grand Hall Jackson, MS 380 South Lamar Street 5:30 pm / Cash bar; 6:00 pm / Program 601-960-1515 www.msmuseumart.org

November 23 4th Annual Turkey Gumbo Cook Off Main Street at Commerce Street Natchez, MS 640 South Canal Street Set Up / 1:00 pm; Tasting / 5:00 pm 6 tasting tickets / $10 Regina Charboneau / reginacharboneua@yahoo.com www.visitnatchez.org

November 21 Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker Jackson, MS 7:30 pm / $37.50 www.visitjackson.com

November 24 Ziklag Artwork by Conner Burns River Oaks Arts Center Alexandria, LA 1330 Main Street 6:00 pm - 8:30 pm 601-446-6334 www.connerburns.org

November 22 American Queen Docking Natchez Under-the-Hill Natchez, MS Silver Street 8:00 am - 4:00 pm www.visitnatchez.org

November 24 - December 31 2012 Christmas in the Park Tylertown, MS 6:00 pm - 8:30 pm $5/ car; $20/bus 601-876-4911 www.walthallchamber.com/Christmas

November 22 Thanksgiving Concert - The Annie Moses Band Downtown Natchez Natchez, MS Corner of Broadway and Main Streets 2:30 pm - 3:30 pm / Free www.visitnatchez.org

November 25 “Night of Lights” Downtown McComb McComb, MS Railroad Boulevard - Downtown Pavilion 7:15 pm - 9:00 pm / Free 601-684-4942 libbaalford@bellsouth.net www.pikeinfo.com

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up & coming! NOVEMBER November 29 Brookhaven Christmas Parade Downtown Brookhaven, MS 7:00 pm

November 30 Festival of Lights Baton Rouge, LA Downtown 5th and Main Streets

November 30, December 1 & 2, 7 & 8 A Haven Holiday The Haven Theatre Brookhaven, MS Cherokee Street Fridays and Saturdays 7:30 pm Sunday 2 pm Tickets $10 at the door www.haventheater.com

November 30 - December 2 Miracle on 34th Street Parkside Playhouse Vicksburg, MS 101 Iowa Avenue Fri. & Sat. / 7:30 pm; Sun. / 2 pm Tickets vary.

601-636-0471 www.vicksburgtheatreguild.com www.visitvicksburg.com

November 30 Belhaven Singing Christmas Tree Belhaven University Jackson, MS 1500 Peachtree Street 7 pm / Free 601-968-5930 www.visitjackson.com

December 1 McComb Christmas Parade Downtown McComb McComb, MS Railroad Boulevard-Main-Delaware-Gay 10:00 am 601-684-2291 tmenard@pikeinfo.com www.pikeinfo.com

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NOVEMBER up

& coming!

December 1 2nd Annual Treasures on the Trace Brandon Hall Plantation Natchez, MS 1213 Highway 61 North 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm / $15 Brandon Hall / 601-304-1040 info@brandonhallplantation.com / www. visitnatchez.org

December 1 Natchez Christmas Parade & Fireworks on the Bluff Downtown Natchez Natchez, MS Parade / 6:00 pm; Fireworks to follow / Free www.visitnatchez.org

December 1 - 2 Ballet Mississippi’s The Nutcracker Thalia Mara Hall Jackson, MS 255 Pascagoula Street Sat. / 7:30 pm; Sun. / 2 pm 601-960-1560 www.visitjackson.com / www.balletms.com December 2 Christmas in the Country Tour of Homes Friends of the Library St. Francisville, LA Noon - 5:00 pm / $20 Adv. tickets / West Feliciana Parish Library 11865 Ferdinand Street Tickets Dec. 2 / West Feliciana Historical Society 11757 Ferdinand Street 225-635-3364 December 3 Summit Christmas Parade Summit, MS 6:00 pm

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up & coming! NOVEMBER December 7 Magnolia Christmas Parade Magnolia, MS 5:30 pm December 8 Osyka Christmas Parade Osyka, MS 2:00 pm December 18 Chamber Business After Hours Selman’s Jewelers McComb, MS 1311 Delaware Avenue 5:00 pm Be sure to confirm details of the events should changes have occurred since events were submitted.

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THE social SCENE | Brookhaven, MS | Taste of the Trust Ticket Party

Taste of the Trust Ticket Party The Brookhaven Trust held its annual Taste of the Trust Ticket Party October 1, 2012, at J. Allan’s in Brookhaven, Mississippi. The event was catered by Mary White, owner of The Cotton Blossom. The Taste of the Trust will be held on Thursday, November 8, 2012, from 5:30 to 9:00 P.M.

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Front—Katie Nations, Rachel Powell, Malisia Smith, and Rita Robinson; back— Anna Smith, Katie Baker, Emily Phillips, Lindsey Robinson, Kelsey Jordan, Glenda Hux, Leslie Baker, and Lucy Holloway Kelsey Jordan, Anna Smith, Katie Baker, and Lindsey Robinson Rita Robinson and Emily Phillips Lindsey Robinson and Katie Baker Katie Nations and Bernell Robinson Anna Smith and Glenda Hux

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Families First for Mississippi Families First for Mississippi held its Southern partners meeting at the Mississippi Community Education Center in Jackson, Mississippi. The purpose of Families First for Mississippi is to strengthen families of all backgrounds and life circumstances by providing parenting education and support as well as youth development/abstinence through seminars, workshops, classes, presentations, and consultations. Families First partners in the Southern region include Jackson County Civic Action Committee (JCCAC), Mississippi Community Education Center (MCEC), and Adams County Youth Court (ACYC).

Zach New, Steve Pickering, Jake Winter, Vanessa Gibson, Woody Brumitt, Eliza Hegwood, Diann Payne, Nancy New, Chase Hilliard, Alethia Lawrence, Angela Ivory, and Barbara Acosta

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Southern Sampler by Alma M. Womack

The Glories, Chores, and Challenges of Autumn

W

e have done it; we have lived through another hot Southern summer and are now able to enjoy the glories of autumn. The colors, the smells, the cool air—all are here for us to enjoy. There’s nothing like walking out early one morning and smelling the change in the air that fall brings. For those of us who are weary of heat, it is the smell of relief.

Fall on a farm means long hours of work while picking cotton; cutting soybeans and milo; planting wheat; getting in the last cutting of hay; and, here on Smithland Plantation, picking up pecans. That’s the last job before hunting season officially kicks off, and it is done with thankfulness that the year is nearly complete.

Last year, thanks to the Chinese market, we got a premium price for our pecans all the way into February. This year, the price is starting out at the usual fall price, which is about one half of last year’s price. I still have a goodly many bags of pecans in the

freezer but can always make room for more.

My favorites are the Forkerts, and I love cooking with the Elliotts but purely hate to have to shell them. They have a tough shell that just wears out my fingers when picking out the meat from the cracked shell.

In 2011, the pecan-cracking machine was kept out at the tractor shed instead of deposited in the carport. It was a lovely

arrangement for me and one that will be repeated this year. The cleaner is out there already, so it was only natural that the cracker stays there, too.

All my little boys are growing and learning in leaps and bounds. Woodrow and Drew are four, and little Jay is ten months.

None of them play well together except on the swings. When it comes to sharing

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equipment (John Deere toys), I’ll catch Woodrow hiding his favorites up high or under the sofa. Drew does that with the trains, for he loves his trains as much as Woodrow loves the Green and Yellow. I am hoping that age will improve their ability to share.

Miss Liza, my beloved granddaughter, is fourteen and a freshman in high school in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. It seems just a short time ago that Holly and I carried her to Cathedral School in Natchez, Mississippi, for her very first day of school; but it has actually been nine years. I think I was 45 that year. Drew is in pre-K in Covington, Louisiana; and Woodrow is still on a cotton picker or a combine. He will go to a program in Trinity (across the river from Jonesville, Louisiana) in a few weeks; but for now, helping with the harvest is paramount.

And I am still going around in circles, hoping to have something to show for my labor at the end of the day. October and November are my favorite months to work outside, for there’s a likely chance of lower temperatures and fewer mosquitoes. There are always limbs to pick up, bushes to trim, flower beds to clean out for spring, and acres to mow.

This fall, I have to clean out the chicken house, not my favorite job because of the infernal dust. I have put it off all year, and it will take a shovel and wheelbarrow to clean out the sticks and trash hauled in by a wretched wood rat. I got rid of one in the spring and thought that my troubles with stick piles were over, but I was mistaken. Another has decided to make his winter home there, so the battle is on.

I have to keep the outside doors shut to keep out inquisitive dogs that go berserk when they see chickens running around and cackling. With the door shut, the dust doesn’t leave, just stays there to coat my lungs when I breathe. I will end up with some good compost material, though, so it will all balance out in the end.

I do have one funny comment on LSU football, which is leaving something to be desired this fall. The day that Paul Ryan was announced as the Republican vice-presidential nominee, I called Holly to see what her husband, Coty, thought about the selection.

“Oh, Mama,” she said. “He can’t listen to the news now; he’s in mourning.

The Honey Badger has been kicked off the team!” Coty was an LSU cheerleader during his time at the university, and he takes his football seriously. I have to admit I mourned the exit of the Honey Badger, Page 80 { November 2012 { Bluffs & Bayous

too, even though he deserved it. He would have come in handy in these SEC games.

This is the month that we vote either to save our country and our way of life or watch it continue the slide into socialism, debt, and despair. It is a simple choice, tyranny or liberty, and the results are critical. I have written about this choice more fully in other venues, but now I will only ask that everyone study the candidates, look at their character, their lifetime achievements, and their positions on the important issues facing our country. There is a clear difference this time, and it is my prayer that people will consider what is best for our nation over all other considerations.

Please pray for our country in this time of crisis, and pray for our young soldiers, whose lives are on the line, protecting us all. They are often hamstrung by government policies, yet they continue to perform their duties with diligence and honor. May God bless them for their efforts, and may God have mercy on America while the world is erupting in chaos and despair. We have been the beacon of hope for generations and, with the grace of God, can continue as the land of liberty, having freedom and justice for all.

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