Bluffs & Bayous December 2017

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Bluffs & Bayous { December 2017 { Page 1

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F RO M T H E E D I TO R

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY Jennie

Guido

Bluffs & Bayous { December 2017 { Page 5

DECEMBER 2017

F E AT U R E S The Crafted Essence of Christmas .....................................................................36-38 At Home for the Holidays ..................................................................................40-43

F AV O R I T E S Events Louisiana Up & Coming .....................................................................................45-47 Mississippi Up & Coming ....................................................................................49-56

The Crafted Essence of Christmas page 36 - 38

G’s Fare Gifting This Christmas ....................................................................................... 10-13

In the Garden Cabbage for Winter..................................................................................................26

Legal Notes The Good vs. The Bad .............................................................................................22

Southern Sampler Pecans and Yule Tidings..........................................................................................58

The Social Scene After-hours Events with Natchez Pathology ........................................................... 14 Launch for Trinity Cookbook .................................................................................. 15 DAR’s Rosalie Day .............................................................................................. 16-17 Brookhaven Camellia Society Social.......................................................................20

At Home for the Holidays pages 40 - 43

SMCC Tip-off Dinner .............................................................................................. 21 KDMC Think Pink Luncheon ................................................................................24

ON THE COVER With fresh boughs of magnolia, the Seal home opened its doors to guests during the annual Christmas Tour of Homes in St. Francisville, Louisiana. Photography by Jennie Guido

Annual Meeting for REPM......................................................................................25 85th Anniversary Party for Silas Simmons........................................................ 30-31 Bon Anniversaire .....................................................................................................32

The Wedding Scene Bridal Shower for Guido .........................................................................................34

Writer’s Block Christmas Card Conundrum ................................................................................... 18

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PUBLISHER Cheryl Foggo Rinehart MANAGING EDITOR

CONSULTING EDITOR

Jennie Guido

Jean Nosser Biglane GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Jan Ratcliff

Anita Schilling

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS Tim McCary

Cheryl Rinehart Lisa Adams Whittington SALES STAFF

Jennie Guido

Cheryl Rinehart Donna Sessions CONTRIBUTORS

Dr. Gary R. Bachman

Lucien C. “Sam� Gwin III

Becky Junkin

Jennifer J. Whittier Alma Womack

Cheryl Rinehart

Jean Biglane

Dr. Gary R. Bachman

Jennie Guido

Jan Ratcliff

Anita Schilling

Tim McCary

Lisa Adams Whittington

Donna Sessions

Jennifer J. Whittier

Lucien C. “Sam� Gwin III

Becky Junkin

Alma Womack

Bluffs & Bayous is published monthly to promote the greater Southern area of Louisiana and Mississippi in an informative and positive manner. We welcome contributions of articles and photos; however, they will be subject to editing and availability of space and subject matter. Photographs, comments, questions, subscription requests and ad placement inquiries are invited! Return envelopes and postage must accompany all materials submitted if a return is requested. No portion of this publication may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. The opinions expressed in Bluffs & Bayous are those of the authors or columnists and do QRW QHFHVVDULO\ UHà HFW WKH YLHZV RI WKH SXEOLVKHU QRU GR WKH\ FRQVWLWXWH DQ HQGRUVHPHQW RI SURGXFWV RU VHUYLFHV KHUHLQ :H UHVHUYH WKH ULJKW WR UHIXVH DQ\ DGYHUWLVHment. Bluffs & Bayous strives to insure the accuracy of our magazine’s contents. However, should inaccuracies or omissions occur, we do not assume responsibility.

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

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G’S FARE

BY

Becky Junkin

PHOTOGRAPHY BY Jennie

Guido

Gifting This C hristmas “It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas, everywhere you go.�

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ho can believe that it is the most wonderful time of the year, and we will be saying goodbye to 2017 in no time? As busy as all of our lives have become, we have less and less time to spend on all the fun things at Christmas like making goodies for our neighbors, co-workers, and IULHQGV +HUHZLWK \RX ZLOO ÀQG D FROOHFWLRQ RI TXLFN DQG easy desserts, some of which you can even make with Page 10 { December 2017 { Bluffs & Bayous

your children to create a family time that is fun, educational, and entertaining. The clean-up is easy, the instructions are simple and easy to follow, and the results are pleasing not only to the eye but also to the tummy. In other words a win-win for you, your family, and your friends. I wish each of you and yours a very Merry Christmas and a Happy, Happy New Year! So, until next year . . . “G�

When my son and daughter-in-law got PDUULHG DOO RI WKH JXHVWV DW WKH KRWHO ZHUH JLYHQ FDNH EDOOV 7KLV ZDV P\ ÀUVW LQWURGXFWLRQ WR WKH HDV\ WUHDW , KDYH XVHG MXVW DERXW HYHU\ FDNH ER[ PL[ WKHUH LV WR PDNH WKH GLIIHUHQW à DYRUV DQG WKH\ DUH DOO JRRG )RU &KULVWPDV ZH PDNH WKLV ZLWK D UHG YHOYHW FDNH PL[ DQG LW LV QRW RQO\ JRRG DQG HDV\ EXW DOVR H[WUHPHO\ IHVWLYH , XVHG OHIW RYHU FDQQHG IURVWLQJ WLQWHG UHG or sprinkles instead of the candy melts. I had the recipe only in my head but found LW RIÀFLDOO\ RQ OLNHPRWKHUOLNHGDXJKWHU FRP ZKLFK VWDWHG LW D OLWWOH PRUH SURIHVVLRQDOO\ WKDQ GLG P\ YHUVLRQ

RED VELVET CAKE BALLS

/DUL PDGH WKHVH TXLWH D IHZ \HDUV DJR :H VWLOO PDNH WKHP EXW XVH GLIIHUHQWO\ Ă DYRUHG 2UHRV DFFRUGLQJ WR WKH VHDVRQ 7KH 5HG 9HOYHW ZRXOG EH D JRRG FKRLFH DW &KULVWPDV RU 9DOHQWLQH¡V Day if someone is not a fan of peppermint since they would be red rather than chocolate. You ZLOO GHĂ€QLWHO\ QHHG WR PDNH PRUH WKDQ RQH EDWFK IRU HDFK RI WKH SHRSOH DW KRPH ZLOO HDW DW OHDVW one because they are that good. This recipe came from twotwentyone.com.

PEPPERMINT OREO TRUFFLES 1 16-ounce package regular Oreo cookies 1 8-ounce package cream cheese 1 1/2 teaspoons peppermint extract 8 ounces melted white chocolate, candy coat, or almond bark (melted) *Y\ZO ^OVSL 6YLVZ PU[V Ă„UL JY\TIZ" WSHJL PU TLKP\T IV^S >L VYPNPUHSS` \ZLK WLWWLYTPU[ 6YLVZ I\[ 0 OH]L UV[ ZLLU [OLT PU H ^OPSL (KK JYLHT JOLLZL HUK WLWWLYTPU[ L_[YHJ[ [V [OL JY\ZOLK 6YLVZ" TP_ \U[PS ^LSS ISLUKLK 9LMYPNLYH[L TP_[\YL \U[PS Ă„YT HIV\[ VUL OV\Y 9VSS JVVRPL TP_[\YL PU[V IHSSZ HIV\[ PUJO PU KPHTL[LY +PW IHSSZ PU ^OP[L JOVJVSH[L JHUK` TLS[ HSTVUK IHYR" WSHJL VU ^H_ WHWLY :WYPURSL ^P[O JY\ZOLK JHUK` JHULZ PTTLKPH[LS` HM[LY WSHJPUN VU ^H_ WHWLY 9LMYPNLYH[L \U[PS Ă„YT HIV\[ OV\Y :[VYL [Y\ÉŠLZ JV]LYLK PU YLMYPNLYH[VY @PLSKZ HIV\[ [Y\ÉŠLZ Additional hints: (KK [V [LHZWVVU TVYL WLWWLYTPU[ L_[YHJ[ MVY TVYL WLWWLYTPU[ Ă…H]VY 0M `V\ ^HU[ H KYPLY JVUZPZ[LUJ` MVY [OL [Y\ÉŠL Ă„SSPUN \ZL V\UJLZ VM JYLHT JOLLZL @V\ JHU HKK TVYL JYLHT JOLLZL V\UJL I` V\UJL [V NL[ `V\Y KLZPYLK JVUZPZ[LUJ` To OLSW WYL]LU[ [OL 6YLV TP_[\YL MYVT TP_PUN PU[V [OL ^OP[L JOVJVSH[L JHUK` JVH[ TLS[ ZTHSS IH[JOLZ VM ^OP[L JOVJVSH[L JHUK` JVH[ H[ H [PTL

1 box red velvet cake mix (and ingredients JHSSLK MVY VU IV_ J\W JYLHT JOLLZL MYVZ[PUN 0 \ZLK JHUULK MYVZ[PUN 2 cups white chocolate chips 1 tablespoon coconut oil Pink candy melts (or the options mentioned above) 9LK JHUK` TLS[Z VY [OL VW[PVUZ TLUtioned above) Make cake and bake according to box PUZ[Y\J[PVUZ *Y\TISL \W `V\Y JHRL PU[V H SHYNL IV^S (KK `V\Y JYLHT JOLLZL MYVZ[ing to your crumbled cake and stir every[OPUN [VNL[OLY [PSS ISLUKLK :OHWL TP_[\YL PU[V HIV\[ JHRL IHSSZ HUK WSHJL VU H SPULK JVVRPL ZOLL[ 7SHJL PU MYLLaLY MVY TPU\[LZ 7\[ white chocolate chips and coconut oil in a ZTHSS IV^S HUK TPJYV^H]L MVY ZLJVUKZ HUK [OLU Z[PY [OLU HU HKKP[PVUHS ZLJVUKZ [OLU Z[PY [OLU HUV[OLY ZLJVUKZ PM ULLKLK [PSS JYLHT` :[PJR H [VV[OWPJR PU[V each cake pop and dip them into white JOVJVSH[L JV]LYPUN JVTWSL[LS` (SSV^ L_JLZZ [V KYPW VɈ IHJR PU[V [OL IV^S 7SHJL caked balls back on lined cookie sheet HUK SL[ YLZ[ [PSS JOVJVSH[L OHYKLUZ Melt candy melts in small microwavHISL IV^S PU TPJYV^H]L [PSS ZTVV[O 0 Q\Z[ \ZLK ZVTL VM [OL JHUULK MYVZ[PUN [PU[LK YLK +YPaaSL JHUK` TLS[Z V]LY [OL [VWZ [V KLJVYH[L

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I made these this year when all the children and grandchildren came home for Labor Day Weekend. I had intended for them WR EH VHUYHG RQ 6DWXUGD\ ZKHQ ZH DOO FRRNHG RXW DQG ZDWFKHG WKH JDPHV EXW WKH FKLOGUHQ had other ideas since they ate them Friday night—all of them. This recipe makes a whole cookie sheet full and would be perfect to take to a friend or neighbor with children. I found this on Pinterest at sugarspunrun.com.

SALTINE CRACKER CANDY ZSLL]LZ ZHS[LK ZHS[PUL JYHJRLYZ HIV\[ crackers) 1 cup unsalted butter 1 cup brown sugar, tightly packed 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips 1 cup chopped pecans or other topping -SHR` ZLH ZHS[ MVY ZWYPURSPUN VW[PVUHS 7YLOLH[ `V\Y V]LU [V KLNYLLZ HUK SPUL H Z[HUKHYK ZPaLK JVVRPL ZOLL[ ^P[O MVPS Lightly spray with cooking spray or grease SPNO[S` ^P[O I\[[LY 3H`LY JYHJRLYZ L]LUS` V]LY [OL MVPS ZHS[LK ZPKL \W " P[»Z HSS YPNO[ PM [OLYL HYL spaces between the crackers and not every LKNL PZ JVTWSL[LS` ÄSSLK PU 7YLWHYL `V\Y [VMMLL I` JVTIPUPUN I\[[LY HUK IYV^U Z\NHY PU a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring VJJHZPVUHSS` (SSV^ TP_[\YL [V JVTL [V H IVPS HUK HSSV^ P[ [V IVPS MVY [OYLL TPU\[LZ·KV UV[ Z[PY ^OPSL P[ IVPSZ 0TTLKPH[LS` YLTV]L MYVT OLH[ HUK WV\Y V]LY JYHJRLYZ 0[»Z VRH` PM ZVTL VM [OLT Z[HY[ [V Ã…VH[" Q\Z[ [Y` [V RLLW [OLT PU HU L]LU SH`LY ZWYLHK ^P[O H OLH[WYVVM ZWH[\SH [V JVTWSL[LS` JVH[ JYHJRLYZ 7SHJL PU [OL V]LU MVY TPU\[LZ HUK [OL [VɈLL ^PSS ILNPU [V I\IISL 9LTV]L MYVT V]LU HUK L]LUS` ZWYPURSL JOVJVSH[L JOPWZ V]LY [VɈLL 9L[\YU [V V]LU MVY [^V TPU\[LZ [OLU YLTV]L HUK \ZL H ZWH[\SH VY RUPML [V ZWYLHK JOVJVSH[L L]LUS` V]LY JYHJRLYZ :WYPURSL L]LUS` ^P[O JOVWWLK WLJHUZ VY HU` WYLMLYYLK [VWWPUN HUK H ZJHU[ HTV\U[ VM Ã…HR` ZLH ZHS[ (SSV^ [V JOPSS PU YLMYPNLYH[VY MVY H[ SLHZ[ TPU\[LZ VY \U[PS JOVJVSH[L OHYKLUZ *\[ PU[V WPLJLZ \ZPUN H SHYNL RUPML HUK ZLY]L

How can you go wrong with the name of a dessert has the words pecan and pie in it? :KDW PDGH LW HYHQ EHWWHU IRU PH ZDV WKDW LW KDV QR SLH FUXVW IRU PH WR DYRLG /LNH DOO RI WKH UHFLSHV WKLV PRQWK WKLV LV VXSHU HDV\ DQG WXUQV RXW GHOLFLRXV , IRXQG WKLV RQ 3LQWHUHVW at glitterandgoulash.com

PECAN PIE TRUFFLES J\WZ [VHZ[LK WLJHUZ ÄULS` JOVWWLK 1 cup graham crackers crumbs 1 cup light brown sugar 1/2 teaspoon salt 2 tablespoons real maple syrup J\W SPNO[ JVYU Z`Y\W 1 1/2 teaspoon vanilla 16 ounces melting chocolate 7SHJL WLJHUZ VU H SPNO[S` ZWYH`LK JVVRPL ZOLL[ )HRL H[ KLNYLLZ MVY HWWYV_PTH[LS` TPU\[LZ (Z ZVVU HZ [OL` ILJVTL HYVTH[PJ YLTV]L [OLT MYVT [OL V]LU 0U H TLKP\T IV^S JVTIPUL J\WZ ZOV\SK OH]L J\W YLTHPUPUN MVY [VW VM [Y\ɊLZ [VHZ[LK WLJHUZ NYHOHT JYHJRLY JY\TIZ IYV^U Z\NHY HUK ZHS[ 5L_[ HKK JVYU Z`Y\W THWSL Z`Y\W HUK ]HUPSSH" TP_ [OVYV\NOS` 9LMYPNLYH[L TP_[\YL MVY TPU\[LZ 9VSS TP_[\YL PU[V PUJO IHSSZ HUK WSHJL VU H WHYJOTLU[ SPULK JVVRPL ZOLL[ 9LMYPNLYH[L MVY HU HKKP[PVUHS TPU\[LZ 4LS[ JOVJVSH[L HJJVYKPUN [V WHJRHNL PUZ[Y\J[PVUZ *VH[ [OL [Y\ɊLZ ^P[O JOVJVSH[L HUK YL[\YU [V WHYJOTLU[ SPULK JVVRPL ZOLL[ 0TTLKPH[LS` ZWYPURSL JOVWWLK WLJHUZ VU [VW VM [Y\ɊLZ 3L[ JOVJVSH[L OHYKLU HUK LUQV`

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$V \RX FDQ WHOO IURP WKLV PRQWK·V UHFLSHV , DP D IDQ RI UHG YHOYHW 7KH QH[W WZR UHFLSHV DUH VRPH RI PDQ\ UHG YHOYHW UHFLSHV WKDW , KDYH ,Q IDFW , DOPRVW GLG WKLV ZKROH FROXPQ RQ 5HG 9HOYHW EXW GHFLGHG QRW HYHU\RQH ZDV DV ELJ D IDQ DV , DP VR , OLPLWHG LW WR WZR DQG D half recipes. This recipe comes from the age-old fudge recipe from the back of the marshmallow crqPH MDU ZLWK D IHZ QHZ WZLVWV 7R EH KRQHVW WKLV LV WKH RQO\ IXGJH WKDW , KDYH HYHU successfully made ,W LV YHU\ SUHWW\ DQG SXW RQ D &KULVWPDV SODWH ORRNV OLNH \RX ZHQW WR D ORW PRUH WURXEOH WKDQ \RX DFWXDOO\ GLG , PDGH LW WKH ROG IDVKLRQHG ZD\ RQ WKH VWRYH WRS Just follow the directions on the side of the marshmallow crème jar if you prefer the oldfashioned way. I found the recipe below at thecafesucrefarine.com.

WINTER WHITE RED VELVET FUDGE MICROWAVE METHOD J\WZ Z\NHY J\W I\[[LY J\W OHSM HUK OHSM 1 12-ounce bag white chocolate chips (2 cups) 1 teaspoon vanilla 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (about 6 ounces) [HISLZWVVUZ YLK MVVK JVSVYPUN 0 \ZL SPX\PK :WYH` H PUJO ZX\HYL WHU SPNO[S` ^P[O JVVRPUN ZWYH`" [OLU SPUL P[ ^P[O H KV\ISL [OPJRULZZ VM MVPS ;OPZ ^PSS THRL P[ T\JO LHZPLY [V SPM[ V\[ VM [OL WHU SH[LY ^P[O LUKZ VM [OL MVPS L_[LUKPUN V]LY ZPKLZ :WYH` SPNO[S` HNHPU HUK ^PWL V\[ HU` L_JLZZ ZWYH` ^P[O H WHWLY [V^LS 7SHJL ZLTP Z^LL[ JOVJVSH[L JOPWZ HUK MVVK JVSVYPUN PU H OLH[ ZHML IV^S :L[ HZPKL 7SHJL I\[[LY PU H SHYNL TPJYV^H]L ZHML IV^S )L Z\YL [V \ZL H SHYNL IV^S HZ TP_[\YL ^PSS I\IISL \W M\YPV\ZS` ^OPSL JVVRPUN (SZV THRL Z\YL [OL IV^S PZ THKL VM H TPJYV^H]L ZHML TH[LYPHS" V[OLY^PZL P[ ^PSS ILJVTL ]LY` OV[ HUK `V\ JV\SK I\YU `V\YZLSM ^OLU YLTV]PUN P[ MYVT [OL TPJYV^H]L 0 \ZL H SHYNL NSHZZ IV^S *V]LY ^P[O H WHWLY [V^LS [V WYL]LU[ ZWH[[LYPUN *VVR VU OPNO MVY TPU\[LZ VY \U[PS I\[[LY PZ TLS[LK (KK Z\NHY HUK OHSM HUK OHSM" TP_ ^LSS 4PJYV^H]L VU OPNO WV^LY MVY TPU\[LZ" Z[PY HUK JVVR HUV[OLY TPU\[LZ :[PY ^LSS 0M [OL I\[[LY ZLLTZ [V ZLWHYH[L MYVT [OL TP_[\YL KVU»[ ^VYY`" Q\Z[ RLLW Z[PYYPUN [PSS P[ TP_LZ IHJR PU :JYHWL KV^U [OL ZPKLZ VM IV^S HUK YL[\YU [V TPJYV^H]L 4PJYV^H]L TVYL TPU\[LZ Z[PY HNHPU [OLU ÄUPZO ^P[O HUV[OLY TPU\[LZ PU [OL TPJYV^H]L 9LTV]L MYVT TPJYV^H]L" HKK THYZOTHSSV^ JYuTL HUK Z[PY (KK ^OP[L JOVJVSH[L JOPWZ HUK ]HUPSSH :[PY \U[PS ]LY` ZTVV[O HUK HSS PUNYLKPLU[Z HYL ^LSS PUJVYWVYH[LK 0TTLKPH[LS` [YHUZMLY HIV\[ OHSM VM [OL OV[ ^OP[L JOVJVSH[L TP_[\YL [V [OL IV^S `V\ WYLWHYLK PU Z[LW ;OL ^OP[L JOVJVSH[L TP_[\YL ^PSS IL ]LY` OV[ HUK ^PSS TLS[ [OL KHYR JOVJVSH[L JOPWZ :[PY ^LSS ^P[O H Z[YVUN OHUKSLK ZWH[\SH VY ^VVKLU ZWVVU \U[PS JOVJVSH[L JOPWZ HYL JVTWSL[LS` TLS[LK HUK PUJVYWVYH[LK >VYRPUN X\PJRS` ^P[O [^V JSLHU TLKP\T ZPaL PJL JYLHT ZJVVWZ VY [HISLZWVVUZ WSVW ZJVVWZ VM LHJO TP_[\YL PU H YHUKVT WH[[LYU PU[V H WYLWHYLK WHU >OLU JVTWSL[L SPM[ \W WHU HUK KYVW MYVT HIV\[ PUJO HIV]L ^VYR Z\YMHJL 9LWLH[ ZL]LYHS [PTLZ [V YLTV]L HU` HPY I\IISLZ 1PNNSL WHU [V ZTVV[O Z\YMHJL [OLU [HRL H ZTHSS RUPML JVH[LK ^P[O H IP[ VM I\[[LY HUK Y\U [OL ISHKL IHJR HUK MVY[O [OYV\NO [OL M\KNL [V JYLH[L [OL Z^PYS` LɈLJ[ <ZL [OL ISHKL HZ PM `V\»YL J\[[PUN ZVTL[OPUN UV[ [OL Ã…H[ WHY[ VM [OL RUPML [V KV [OPZ *VVS JVTWSL[LS` <ZL MVPS OHUKSLZ [V SPM[ M\KNL MYVT WHU ILMVYL J\[[PUN PU[V ZX\HYLZ %HFN\ -XQNLQ PRWKHU RI IRXU DQG JUDQGPRWKHU RI HLJKW LV D OLIHORQJ 1DWFKH] UHVLGHQW D UHWLUHG HOHPHQWDU\ WHDFKHU RI WZHQW\ IRXU \HDUV DQG FHUWLÀHG 3LODWHV LQVWUXFWRU

Bluffs & Bayous { December 2017 { Page 13

THE social SCENE NATCHEZ, MS

Visit www.bluffsbayous.com for all social scenes.

After-hours Event with Natchez Pathology n Thursday, October 12, 2017, the Natchez-Adams County Chamber of Commerce hosted an after-hours event at Natchez Pathology located in Natchez, Mississippi. This locally owned and operated business also celebrated its fiftieth anniversary at the event and welcomed the community to peruse its new facility and meet the staff.

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11 1 Archia Cotton and Tanjayln Brown 2 Vickie Stowers, Frances Schwager, Mimi Puddister, and Judy Bartley 3 Suzanne Steckler and Hannah Jenkins 4 Helen Jackson, Shirley Jones, Archia Cotton, and Tracy Lewis 5 Lynn Perry-Douglas and Sylvia Jones 6 James and Amy Brown 7 Ron and Eleanor Fry 8 Julia Drews, Buddy and Cathy Hill, and Amanda Browning 9 Bill Lambert and Dani Troutman 10 Archia Cotton, Tanjayln Brown, and Janice Johnson 11 Delain Robinson, Kala Miller, and Catherine McDaniel

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THE social SCENE VICKSBURG, MS

Visit www.bluffsbayous.com for all social scenes.

Launch for TheTrinity Cookbook

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oly Trinity Church of Vicksburg, Mississippi, celebrated the publication of its new book, The Trinity Cookbook, at a launch on October 5, 2017. The Right Reverend John McKee Sloan, Bishop of Alabama, returned to the church of his childhood to bless the new book. The book tells the story of the church’s first 150 years of feeding our neighbors in body, mind, and spirit and features beautiful photographs and heart-warming stories. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of the book go to the United Way of West Central Mississippi

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Easy Biedenharn Jeff Richardson Patrick Smith Tim Hunter Mindy Giambrone, Rt. Rev. John McKee Sloan, and Rev. Vic McInnis Jim Miller and Michelle Hunter Betty Biedenharn Jim Miller, Rev. Beth Palmer, and Sharon Miller

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THE social SCENE NATCHEZ, MS

Visit www.bluffsbayous.com for all social scenes.

DAR’s Rosalie Day n October 26, 2017, the DAR hosted its annual Rosalie Day on the grounds of antebellum Rosalie in historic downtown Natchez, Mississippi. Members of the Mississippi chapters of the Daughters of the America Revolution gathered to celebrate the state’s Bicentennial of statehood and enjoyed entertainment and many presentations throughout the crisp fall day.

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John and Mary Hamby Martha Denny and Cindy Mangum Dorothy Herron and Diane Horne Bette Meek, Mary Coward, and Reba Hess Carol Walter, Margaret Fish, and Sandy Brent

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12 6 Beth Herring and Becky Rhinehart 7 Grant, John, and Sara Fox 8 Bobbie Thomas, Anne Anderson, Lynn Herron, and Joyce Griffith 9 Nancy Tilley and Jane Hopkins 10 Mary Sue Douglas and Betty Bradley 11 Toni Layer and Mary Sue Mosby 12 Frances Carlton and Georgane Love Easley

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THE social SCENE

NATCHEZ, MS

Visit www.bluffsbayous.com for all social scenes.

13 Sara Fox, John Fox, Sharon Nettles, Hellen Polk, Mary Willard, Master Chief Ellis, Chief Havens, Petty Officer Dewitt, and Seaman Tate 14 Front row—Cindy Mangum, Barbara Colson, Maxine Mangum, Mary Alice Lee, and Charla Jordan; Back row— Pat Dampier, Cecelia James, Betty Ash, Susan Newton, and Suzanne Ross 15 Laura and Gregory John San Diego 16 Ann McKee 17 Ibukan Babalola

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Bluffs & Bayous { December 2017 { Page 17

WRITER’S BLOCK

BY

Jennie Guido

Christmas Card Conundrum

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t’s Christmas time once again, and the Guidos have a new tradition. Amid the gift exchanging, Mimosas, Bloody Marys, egg nog, and spaghetti and meatballs, we gather up the four-legged Guidos and capture a family portrait. Now, this isn’t the easiest of tasks. We currently have six assorted hounds and pups. Each one has a distinct character and set of quirks; so when it comes to posing for the camera, our work is cut out for us. We have to divvy up the dogs per human. We have to make sure Honey the

Boykin and Jo the Beagle aren’t touching (or looking at) Pebbles the Yorkie. We have to settle Jackie the Beagle so her best side is showing, and she is comfortable. And this year, we have the incredible task of making sure Mom and Dad’s newest additions (the twin Labradors) stop giving hugs and kisses long enough to pose. Finally, we the humans have to smile and not look like crazed lunatics amongst the chaos. This usually takes several tries, and the picture is rarely perfect. Last year, Jo threw a temper tantrum mid-photo. The year

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before that, Honey got a kiss in once we all focused on the camera. However, each one shows our current stage in puppy-hood and another holiday season under our belts. Happy Holidays from the Guido clan to yours! May your days be fury and bright this holiday season. The Managing Editor of Bluffs & Bayous -HQQLH *XLGR OLYHV LQ KHU KRPHWRZQ RI 1DWFKH] 0LVVLVVLSSL Whether a family tradition during the holidays or DQRWKHU DGYHQWXUH ZLWK KHU WZR %HDJOHV *XLGR HQjoys sharing with readers a sampling of her life H[SHULHQFHV

Bluffs & Bayous { December 2017 { Page 19

THE social SCENE BROOKHAVEN, MS

Visit www.bluffsbayous.com for all social scenes.

Brookhaven Camellia Society Social he Brookhaven Camellia Society began its 2017-2018 year with a social gathering dinner at Woodleigh on September 14, 2017, in Brookhaven, Mississippi. Over fifty members and guests attended, which promises another strong year. Frank Burns, owner of Brookhaven Nurseries, was honored for his numerous contributions to the society. Burns has been a member since the Brookhaven Camellia Society was founded in 1963. Photography by Bill Perkins

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1 Betty Ann Perkins 2 Shelley Harrigill and Patria Coggin 3 Rusty Yates and Mary Clark 4 Nancy Hanks-Myers 5 Jack Combs and Sheila McCall 6 Molly Mandel and Dott Cannon 7 Bob Logan, Constance Cowart, and Jill Burns Logan Nick Fornwalt, Nancy Hanks-Myers, and Travis Mills Renee and Bob Naeger with Jill Burns Logan Jim Bonner, Stephanie Gatlin, and Beverly Britt Becky Frame, Simone Bryan, and Wanda Holly Robinson Sara Gamlin, Dr. Ted Dear, Jacqui Patton, and Renate Huntington Wanda Holly Robinson, Becky Frame, Bill Perkins, Simone Bryan, and Molly Mandel

THE social SCENE SUMMIT, MS

Visit www.bluffsbayous.com for all social scenes.

SMCC Tip-off Dinner outhwest Mississippi Community College’s Lady Bears basketball team held its Tip-off Dinner on Monday, October 23, 2017, in the SMCC Workforce Training Center in Summit, Mississippi. The fundraising event included dinner, a silent auction, and featured guest speaker Joye Lee-McNelis, Head Women’s Basketball Coach at the University of Southern Mississippi.

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Reggie Jones Gilbert and Carla Griffin Brandon and Sarapha Dugas Brent Harris Cindy Bennett and Susan Hedges Dr. Clyde Ginn and Brenda Coleman Destiney Gordon and Britta Stephens Joye Lee-McNelis and Dr. Steve Bishop JJ and Ruth Brock Bill Wallace and Danny Lewis Kim and Keith Burkett Alicia Shows and T.W. Bearden Brent Harris and Britta Stephens with the Lady Bears basketball team

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Bluffs & Bayous { December 2017 { Page 21

LEGAL NOTES

BY

Lucien C. Gwin III

The Good vs. The Bad

A

rbitration is a topic that could easily affect every reader of this article. First, what is it? One article I read says, “Arbitration Clauses allow companies to force customers with legal disputes against them out of the courtroom, and into a SURFHVV RI RIWHQ SULYDWH RIWHQ FRQĂ€GHQWLDO ELQGLQJ DJUHHPHQWV Âľ This subject has a direct impact on almost all consumers for the simple reason that “arbitration clausesâ€? are contained in almost all applications for credit cards, auto loans, student loans, and payGD\ ORDQV DQG IRUW\ WR Ă€IW\ SHUFHQW RI EDQNV LQFOXGH WKHVH FODXVHV in their account contracts. Furthermore, multiple other companies and industries are moving toward “binding arbitrationâ€? in order to avoid having to face juries in a courtroom. So, how does this process work? First, let’s assume that you have a credit card with a company that provides for binding arbitration in its account contract. Let’s also assume that you use this credit card to purchase online heath food products through the company. It is understood that the company is going to charge your credit card every month for various items that you have ordered from them. As time passes, you don’t pay a whole lot of attention to your credit card bill; but then, after about a year, lo and behold, you realize that the health food company has been substantially overcharging you to the tune of several thousand dollars. :HOO WKH Ă€UVW WKLQJ \RX GR LV FDOO WKH FUHGLW FDUG FRPSDQ\ DQG tell them to stop the charges immediately. Now, let’s assume that somehow or another, the credit card company fails to stop the charges, either through inadvertence or negligence (seen it happen). Again, some time passes, and you realize that your credit card is still being used to purchase products that you never ordered or Page 22 { December 2017 { Bluffs & Bayous

received. So, you call the credit card company again and demand that your card be credited with the amounts that were wrongfully charged to you after you instructed them not to allow any additional charges. The credit card company basically tells you “too badâ€? and further tells you that they have no record of your ever calling them. So, what do you do? :HOO XQIRUWXQDWHO\ \RX¡OO Ă€QG RXW WKDW \RX RQO\ KDYH RQH RStion in this situation; and that is “arbitration.â€? Now, you as the damaged person have to initiate arbitration. 7KH Ă€UVW WKLQJ WKDW \RX KDYH WR GR LV UHWDLQ DQ DWWRUQH\ DQG Ă€OH an action in court to begin the arbitration process. Under these circumstances, an attorney, in all probability, will want to be paid a fee versus taking a percentage of any recovery. Once the attorney Ă€OHV WKH SURSHU DFWLRQ WKH FRXUW ZLOO WKHQ RUGHU WKDW WKH DUELWUDWLRQ process begin. If the arbitration language is standard, you will “employâ€? the American Arbitration Association (A.A.A.) or a similar entity. This means that you have to come and pay (out of your pocket) the arbitration fees to start this process. This is usually $1,500 to $2,000 just to get the process started. You will then have to put up monies for the cost of the arbitrator. This can set you back an additional $2,000 to $5,000. Thus, as you probably are starting to see, arbitration can become very expensive for a consumer. Assuming you even can take the process this far, let’s say that you attend the hearing on your case and you lose. Guess what? There is no appeal. The decision of an arbitrator is admitted to a court of law, and it is reduced to a judgment against you. This is the end of the process for you. On the other hand, if you win, you can then get a judgment against the credit card company for the amount of damages you incurred. However, it is at the arbitrator’s discretion as to whether you are allowed to recover the expenses that you had to pay on the front end to begin the arbitration process. My Take: Believe it or not, there is an advantage to the consumer in the process of arbitration. Arbitration is a binding matter that often happens within six to eight months versus a court-room setting and DQ DSSHDO ZKLFK FDQ GUDJ RQ IRU \RX IRU WZR WR Ă€YH \HDUV $OVR your attorney’s fees are usually not as high in an arbitration matter as in a court-room matter because you do not go through formal discovery as you would in litigation. The down side is that you have to pay arbitration fees to even initiate WKH DUELWUDWLRQ ZKHUHDV LQ D FRXUW FDVH FRXUW Ă€OLQJ IHHV RQO\ run between $100 and $200 to start an action. I personally think that the consumer usually gets a cheaper, fairer shake in the courtroom. Paying an attorney a percentage of the recovery versus paying him/her directly out of your pocket may not be so egregious after all. /XFLHQ & ´6DPÂľ *ZLQ ,,, ZDV DGPLWWHG WR WKH 0LVVLVVLSSL %DU LQ DQG KDV EHHQ SUDFWLFLQJ PDQ\ DVSHFWV RI WKH ODZ DW WKH ILUP RI *ZLQ /HZLV 3XQFKHV .HOOH\ LQ 1DWFKH] 0LVVLVVLSSL HYHU VLQFH

Natchez Convention Center

|

March 2-4, 2018

Lucedale, Mississippi

|

March 24 , 2018

Wo m e n I n Wo r s h i p . c o m

Join Alicia For a Special Weekend Exploring God’s Word and Discover The Depth of God’s Amazing GRACE! Alicia Williamson Garcia is an author, Bible teacher, national worship leader, and awardwinning recording artist. She has taught Biblical Studies at Liberty University and the University of Mobile, and now tours the nation as a Bible teacher and worship leader. Alicia is known for her ability to dive into scripture and teach others to discover a life-changing depth of understanding of God’s Word, delivered with the purity, power and passion for which she has become known. Come and engage in the scriptures and experience, perhaps for the first time, the unsearchable riches of God’s amazing GRACE!

An Inspirational Conference Empowering The Hearts of Women Nationwide The WOMEN IN WORSHIP Natchez Retreat is a banquet style Bible conference hosted by Alicia and friends! The theme for this 2018 Conference weekend is GRACE! Friday and Saturday night sessions include dinner along with exciting worship and Bible teaching. Brunch & Tea is the signature event of Alicia’s WOMEN IN WORSHIP weekend! You won’t want to miss the beauty and delicious food at the TEA on Saturday morning. The weekend concludes with one final

teaching from Alicia on Sunday morning, along with testimonies from ladies who have attended the retreat throughout the weekend.

Natchez Convention Center March 2-4, 2018 FRIDAY, March 2 5p 6p 7p

| Doors & Bookstore Open | Dinner | Conference

SATURDAY, March 3 10a 10:30a 5p 6p 7p

| Doors open | Brunch & Tea | Doors & Bookstore Open | Dinner | Conference

Tours of Historic Natchez will be offered on Saturday Afternoon.

SUNDAY, March 4 9a 10a

| Doors & Bookstore Open | Conference

Reservation can be made through our website at WomenInWorship.com, or by calling our offices at (251)461-0825. Additional details, including hotel information, available online.

Life-Changing Bible Teaching t Explosive Worship t Friendship t Fellowship

Wo m e n I n Wo r s h i p . c o m Bluffs & Bayous { December 2017 { Page 23

THE social SCENE BROOKHAVEN, MS

Visit www.bluffsbayous.com for all social scenes.

KDMC Think Pink Luncheon n October 26, 2017, Kings Daughters Medical Center’s Foundation hosted the Think Pink Breast Cancer Awareness Luncheon at the FEMA Building in Brookhaven, Mississippi. Decked out in pink, guests enjoyed a catered spread along with a presentation by guest speaker Crystal Langlois, the Director of Oncology Nutrition at Southeastern Regional Medical Center in Newnan, Georgia.

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Sue Golden and Betty Crosby Dana Hester and Alicia Hawkins Jillian Sicks and Katie Nations Jennifer Peets and Pat Duckworth Heather Taggert and Kathleen Zumbro Jamie Pittman and Mandi Smith Angelia Hardy, Annie B. Wilcher, and Sandra Banks Irma Powell, Ethel Richardson, and Jeraldine Lee April Burns, Robyn Linton, and Jessica Vanier Amber Fortenbery, Amy Burns, and Brittany Bozeman Pat Smith and Nell Ryan Brenda Evans, Donna Rushing, Connie Gravelle, and Tressie Hall David Culpepper and Robb Massengill Carries Sones, Melissa Leggett, Kimberly Goza, Jeff Richardson, and Robyn Aker Sandra Nelson with Kay and Bridget Smith Seated—Annie Robinson and Brenda Young; Standing—Marianna Knight and Darlene Coleman

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THE social SCENE SUMMIT, MS

Visit www.bluffsbayous.com for all social scenes.

Annual Meeting for REPM he Retired Education Personnel of Mississippi held its annual meeting for District 6 on October 19, 2017, on the campus of Southwest Community College in Summit, Mississippi. Barbara Winston, District 6 Director, conducted the various units (made up of twelve counties) that attended. The Honorable Percy Robinson, Mayor of Summit, Mississippi, greeted members.

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Jacqulyn Williams and Larry Jackson Linda Norwood Mildred McGehee Eugene Durman Opal and Richard Hinkle Rickie Vaughn Jean McGehee Johnny Waller Percy Robinson and Barbara Watson Alfredia Gutter, Bobbie Lewis, Evelyn Boss Haley, Dorothy Newman, Minnie Vaughn, and Georgia Holmes 11 Barbara Watson, Dorothy Sutton, Emma Jackson, Clementine Youngblood, Georgia Oliver, Jacqulyn Williams, Ruthie Washington, and Larry Jackson

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Bluffs & Bayous { December 2017 { Page 25

IN THE GARDEN

BY

Dr. Gary R. Bachman

PHOTOGRAPHY BY

Dr. Gary R. Bachman

Cabbage for Winter

T

Some garden centers sell transplant pots with different culinary kale HUK JHIIHNL ]HYPL[PLZ HSYLHK` NYV^PUN PU [OLT .HYKLULYZ ^PSS Ă„UK [OPZ an easy way to get fresh greens all winter long.

*\YS` RHSL PZ [`WPJHSS` NYV^U MVY MVVK I\[ P[Z Y\MĂ…LK HUK JYPURSLK LKNLZ look good right up to harvest.

Red selections of ornamental kale and cabbage are especially beautiful in winter, as seen with this red cabbage displaying a beautiful edible head.

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his year, I got an early start on my ornamental kale and cabbage planting for the fall. In October, I found these plants being marketed in variety packs; so I picked up a selection of kale and cabbage. These plants are not very fussy and will grow all winter, displaying their vibrant colors. Ornamental kale and cabbage are a can’t-miss choice for cool-season color. :KLOH WKHVH SODQWV DUH PDUNHWHG DV RUQDPHQWDOV DQG PD\ QRW EH DV Ă DYRUIXO as the culinary varieties, I’ve found them perfectly acceptable for baked kale and cabbage chips. If you plant to eat them, try to start your own plants from seed. It’s really quite easy. You may be surprised to learn that ornamental kale and cabbage belong to the same species. Ornamental cabbage usually refers to selections that have VPRRWK DQG PRUH RU OHVV XQUXIĂ HG OHDYHV .DOH RQ WKH RWKHU KDQG KDV UXIĂ HG textured leaves; and many have feathered leaf edges. This, in my opinion, makes ornamental kale more interesting and cabbage more stabilizing in the winter landscape. There are many different colors and leaf textures to add landscape interest, so don’t plant a single type. Mix and match for increased visual interest in your landscape. Although you can’t go wrong with any of the wonderful colors available, I really love the red selections. For kale, try Redbor, Peacock Red, or Scarlet; for cabbage, consider Pidgeon Red, Colorup Red, or Osaka. My neighbors loved seeing the tight cabbage heads in my landscape last year. A really great idea I came across at the garden center and immediately bought were transplant pots with different culinary kale and cabbage varieties already growing in them. Called Simply Salad Storm Mix, these pots had both green- and red-leafed selections. The directions recommended harvesting leaves from the outside and letting the plants continue to grow more. This will be an easy way to get some fresh greens all winter long. Remember that droughty weather can happen in the winter, and kale and cabbage like consistent soil moisture. A layer of mulch can help by conserving soil moisture. However, don’t forget that cabbage and kale don’t like “wet feetâ€? either; so good bed drainage is essential. Some of the best growth and performance I get is by planting kale and cabbage in special, self-watering containers, which, in case you forgot, is my favorite home growing system. I really like seeing curly kale destined for a winter recipe growing lined up in these containers. While this is a variety typically JURZQ IRU IRRG LWV UXIĂ HG DQG FULQNOHG HGJHV ORRN JRRG ULJKW XS WR KDUYHVW GD\ Ornamental cabbage and kale are actually fairly heavy feeders. I like to add a tablespoon of a good slow-release fertilizer into each planting hole to get the plants off to a great start. On a monthly schedule, I apply a water-soluble fertilizer to keep the plants healthy and growing strong. Try this easy kale chip recipe: Clean the leaves, and remove the large midrib from your kale. Mix with a little extra virgin olive oil and sea salt, and then bake at 240 degrees for about 45 minutes. &ROXPQLVW 'U *DU\ 5 %DFKPDQ LV DQ DVVLVWDQW H[WHQVLRQ SURIHVVRU RI KRUWLFXOWXUH DW 0LVVLVVLSSL 6WDWH 8QLYHUVLW\¡V &RDVWDO 5HVHDUFK DQG ([WHQVLRQ &HQWHU LQ %LOR[L 0LVVLVVLSSL

Bluffs & Bayous { December 2017 { Page 27

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

Natchez k vidalia k Ferriday k Natchez k vidalia k Ferriday k Page 28 { {December December2017 2017{{ Bluffs Bluffs & Bayous & Bayous

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

Natchez k vidalia k Ferriday k Natchez k vidalia k Ferriday k Bluffs Bluffs & Bayous & Bayous {{December December2017 2017{ { Page 29

THE social SCENE NATCHEZ, MS

Visit www.bluffsbayous.com for all social scenes.

85th Anniversary Party for Silas Simmons ilas Simmons, LLP, hosted a golf scramble and client-appreciation reception on October 30, 2017, at Beau Pre Country Club in Natchez, Mississippi. This event marked the CPA firm’s 85 years in business. Photography by Hilary Pearson and Betsy Mosby

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Tim Byrd and Scott Adams Jim and Donna Ball Matt Pearson and Linda Foster Benny Jeansonne and Chuck Caldwell Carla Johnson and Carolyn Mullins Tee Cotton and Brandon Garrity Carolyn Mullins, Matt Pearson, and Ellen Mosby Charles Chandler, Tim Byrd, and Will Carter Becky Morris, Whitney Coltharp, and Heidi Webb Jim and Rowan Milton with Tony Byrne Norma Ferguson with Rose and Dr. William Godfrey Genna Hopkins, Heather Carter, and Julia Drews Matt Pearson, Aimee Guido, and Russell Goodman Ellen Mosby with Dee and Lee White Jaki Robinson and Brad Yarbrough with Mark and Kayla Miller Julia Drews and Genna Hopkins with Peyton and Melissa Cavin

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THE social SCENE

NATCHEZ, MS

Visit www.bluffsbayous.com for all social scenes.

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17 Jason Lees, Tee Cotton, and Hayden Kaiser 18 Mallory Eldridge, Haley White, Heather Schrock, Jamie Ross, Russell Goodman, Myra Perry, Chelsea Stewart, Cherry Coley, and Torrey Groce 19 Edna Ferguson, Carolyn Mullins, and Ellen Mosby 20 Jane Gardner, Joan Heard, and Bob Gardner 21 Randy Ponthie, Robbie Savant, and Barry Loy 22 Carr Hammond, Scott Adams, Whitney Coltharp and Heidi Webb 23 Casey Mock, Torrey Groce, Tim Byrd, and Mark Carter 24 James Brown, Peyton Cavin, and Karey and Wes Gore 25 Myra Perry, Emmaleigh Roth, Kassie Dollar, Meghan Ozburn, and Brooke Perry 26 Fred St Clair and Maureen Radzewicz with Gwen and Jay Massey 27 Linda Foster, Janis Holder, Kassie Dollar, and Ginga MacLaughlin 28 Jack Maxwell, Wetlin Treppendahl, and Jason Lees 29 Adrian Sandel, Monty Mayo, and Hayden Kaiser 30 Daniel and Shannon Case 31 Monica Mayo and Karen Partridge 32 Lisa and Adrian Sandel 33 Betsy Mosby and Destiny Robb 34 Johnny Junkin and Jimmy Smith

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THE social SCENE NATCHEZ, MS

Visit www.bluffsbayous.com for all social scenes.

Bon Anniversaire n the bluffs of Natchez, Mississippi, overlooking the Mississippi River on September 9, 2017, Claudia and Jim Stowers celebrated a “Bon Anniversaire” —his 65th birthday, their 25th wedding anniversary, and Clifton House Natchez’s first year. The 1904 home, which has been in the Stowers family for three generations, has been remodeled and modernized to create a bed-and-breakfast with five en suites, each with remarkable views of the Mississippi. The Stowerses live in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and Starling’s Rest here in Natchez. Photography by Mark Coffey

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Claudia and Jim Stowers Hayes Paulson and Hank Forester Jamie Minton and Chandler Minton Natalie Stowers and Hayes Paulson Peggy Barnes and Claudia Stowers Peggy and Tim Barnes Carol Stowers and Gail McKeivier Morgan and Hayes Paulson Linda Caldwell and Jim Stowers

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THE weddingSCENE NATCHEZ, MS

Visit www.bluffsbayous.com for all social scenes.

Bridal Shower for Guido n Saturday, September 16, 2017, family members honored bride-to-be Kari Guido Caldwell at the home of her sister, Megan Guido. Friends, family, and co-workers gathered to celebrate the upcoming marriage of the bride to Charles Caldwell, which took place on October 7, 2017, in Natchez, Mississippi.

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1 Julie Caldwell and Kari Guido Caldwell 2 Megan and Suzanne Guido, Kari Guido Caldwell, and Jennie and Aimee Guido 3 Back—Margaret, Megan, Janice, Carolyn, and Gail Guido; Front—Kari Guido Caldwell and Della Book 4 Kari Guido Caldwell and Della Book 5 Back—Aimee Guido, Amanda Williams, Leighann Holloway, Kari Guido Caldwell, Megan and Jennie Guido, and Lewie and Mattie Brown; Front—Della Book

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The Crafted Essence of Christmas or Christmas, each home tries to display its own unique decor. Whether using fresh pieces from nature or more permanent pieces such as faux florals and evergreens, Christmas is different for each person who puts together a centerpiece or wreath. At Moreton’s Flowerland in Natchez, Mississippi, Brenda Zerby and her crafty crew are available to help spin just about any Christmas story from your front door to your dining room table. “By using materials that are readily available, we can help you make the mechanics of the placement work,” Zerby shared. “The essence

of what you want to convey from what you

create comes from the sights and smells of Christmas. These evoke memories in each person that comes into your home during the holiday season.” Be sure to take inspiration for your decor from what is traditional when it comes to Christmas but also take note of what’s popular this year. “Copper colors, plaids, and cotton seem to be jumping forward as their year’s trendy pieces,” Zerby explained. “Using those elements will keep your decor fresh and current.” So, turn on your Christmas music and start to create your Christmas wreath with pieces you don’t get to enjoy the rest of the year.

Floral design by Brenda Zerby of Moreton’s Flowerland Photography by Jennie Guido Page 36 { December 2017 { Bluffs & Bayous

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Bluffs & Bayous { December 2017 { Page 37

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SOUTHWEST MISSISSIPPI Bluffs Bluffs & & Bayous Bayous { { December December 2017 2017 { { Page Page 39 39

AT HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS n the South, Christmas is normally spent at home with family and friends surrounding each other in our own version of a winter wonderland. For the Seal family, their new St. Francisville, Louisiana, home provides the perfect backdrop for a fresh, farmhouse Christmas. Kate Seal explained to me the details of her Christmas decor that she, her family, and friends Caroline Alberstadt, Lea Baber, and Amy Louvier masterfully crafted inside the home and along the front porch just in time for St. Francisville’s Christmas tour of homes.

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Photography by Jennie Guido

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(IV]L·7\SSPUN [OL YLKZ [OYV\NOout the spacious living area added ^HYT[O [V [OL TVKLYU `L[ JVa` MHYTOV\ZL Z[`SL VM [OL OVTL 9PNO[·:THSS [V\JOLZ VM *OYPZ[THZ Z\JO HZ [OLZL [PU` :HU[H ÄN\YPULZ along the banister, carried the holiday ZWPYP[ MYVT YVVT [V YVVT -HY YPNO[·;OL MYLZOULZZ VM ZH[Z\THZ HUK (THY`SSPZ VU [OL JVɈLL [HISL HKKLK [V [OL HWWLHS VM [OL YVVT

Bluffs & Bayous: Tell us about your beautiful home. Seal: The twelve acres that our home was built on are the real treasure with the pond and rolling lawn. When trying to decide on a design, I had a hard time getting the home that my mother built on Lake Bruin in St. Joseph, Louisiana, out of my mind. Bluffs & Bayous { December 2017 { Page 41

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We took Mom’s house plans to a draftsman and UHGHVLJQHG LW WR ¿W WKH QHHGV RI RXU IDPLO\ Charles, my husband, had two requests: a real wood-burning ¿UHSODFH DQG RI¿FH VSDFH VLQFH KH ZRUNV VRPH IURP home. We both wanted big front and back porches; and at the last minute, we decided to screen in the back porch. We changed things here and there during the building process. For instance, we widened the IURQW SRUFK WR ¿W D SRUFK VZLQJ WKDW ZH UHFHLYHG DV D gift. We are “porch” people, so we wanted our outdoor space to accommodate our love of the outdoors. :H ¿QDOO\ PRYHG LQ GXULQJ )HEUXDU\ RI Bluffs & Bayous: Would you say the decor had a certain theme? Seal: Overwhelmingly, the theme was a Southern Christmas with natural, lush, elegant, unfussy, simple, and colorful accents. The amaryllis plants throughout the house were found in Baton Rouge, and the kumquat branches from a friend’s yard added natural reds and oranges to the decor. Magnolia boughs over the front door alongside the Williamsburg style fruit topiaries in the urns gave a classic appeal.

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9PNO[¡<UL_WLJ[LK [V\JOLZ Z\JO HZ [OL artichokes, greeted guests on the tour, inviting [OLT [V LUQV` [OL OVTLZ MLZ[P]L KLJVY -HY YPNO[¡;OPZ VYUHTLU[ MYVT *OHYSLZZ TV[OLYZ JVSSLJ[PVU HKKLK H UV[L VM UVZ[HSNPH [V [OL :LHSZ [YLL

The home’s classic style and architecture didn’t require a lot of sparkly ornaments. We kept things simple and natural with native plants, such as holly, found in area yards. Adorned with wide satin and plaid ribbons casually woven through the VWDLUV¡ EDOXVWHUV DQG Ă€UHSODFH VWRFNLQJV the fresh pieces from the outdoors were tied together inside for a classic look. Family heirlooms on the table such as the monogrammed linens, china, crystal, and family silver added to the “at homeâ€? feel we were trying to create. The table’s arrangement by Amy Louviere, a local WDOHQW LQ Ă RUDO DUWV RQO\ KHOSHG WR HQhance the simple decor with fresh roses, evergreen, and artichokes. The wreaths featured on all of the doors and windows along the front of the house were purchased during an annual local fundraiser WR KHOS EHQHĂ€W ORFDO SKLODQWKURSLHV Bluffs & Bayous: As far as the actual natural greenery and foliage used, what did you pick? Seal: Glossy green magnolia, wild smilax vine, variegated pittosporum, boxwood wreath, and holly leaves and berries kept things crisp and bright. Seasonal fruit such DV RUDQJHV DQG NXPTXDWV Ă€OOHG 0F&DUW\ pottery bowls on the expansive kitchen island. Everywhere were touches of family treasures, which made it all the more valuable and nostalgic. Bluffs & Bayous: What pieces were family treasures? Seal: For example, the wooden nativity scene in the kitchen was my mother’s. She had picked it up while in Mexico years ago on a trip and traveled with it in her lap all the way back home. She let me borrow it for the tour this year, and she may have a hard time getting it back now! Bluffs & Bayous { December 2017 { Page 43

Jennifer invites you [V Z[VW I` V\Y =PKHSPH VɉJL [VKH` [V KPZJ\ZZ `V\Y banking needs.

JENNIFER FREEMAN Vice President Branch Manager NMLS #580210 VIDALIA 1617 Carter Street Vidalia, LA 71373

deltabk.com FERRIDAY 302 Louisiana Ave Ferriday, LA 71334

Page 44 { December 2017 { Bluffs & Bayous

TALLULAH 401 South Cedar Tallulah, LA 71282

LAKE PROVIDENCE 401 Lake Street Lake Providence, LA 71254

NATCHEZ 173 Hwy 61 South Natchez, MS 39120

DATES TO REMEMBER December 4 December 6 December 7 December 24 December 25 December 26 December 31

Cookie Exchange Week St. Nicholas Day Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day Christmas Eve Christmas Day Kwanzaa Begins New Year’s Eve

DECEMBER Louisiana Up & Coming! louisianatravel.com ALEXANDRIA/PINEVILLE alexandriapinevillela.com December 3 Holiday Cheer Rapides Symphony Orchestra Coughlin-Saunders Performing Arts Center 2:30 pm rapidessymphony.org BATON ROUGE Throughout December visitbatonrouge.org lsumoa.org December 1 Baton Rouge Symphony presents Home for the Holidays River Center Theatre 7:30 pm brso.org December 8 Baton Rouge Symphony presents Lamar Holiday Brass St. Joseph Cathedral 7:30 pm (225)383-0500 / brso.org December 10 Holiday Brass Houmas House Plantation 4:30 pm brso.org

Bluffs & Bayous { December 2017 { Page 45

DECEMBER Louisiana Up & Coming! December 8 – 17 A Christmas Carol Theatre Baton Rouge 7:30 & 2 pm theatrebr.org

December 14 Concordia Parish Talented & Gifted Arcade Theatre 6 pm / Free (318)757-9999 / deltamusicmuseum.com

December 16 – 17 The Nutcracker – A Tale from the Bayou River Center Theatre 2 & 6 pm (225)766-8379 / batonrougeballet.org

MONTEREY

FERRIDAY December 2 :LQWHU %HQHÀW *RVSHO ([SORVLRQ Arcade Theatre Doors open: 5 pm / Show: 6 pm (318)757-9999 / deltamusicmuseum.com December 9 Robert Wimberly & The Lakesiders Arcade Theatre Doors open 6 pm / Show 7 pm / $10 (318)757-9999 / deltamusicmuseum.com

December 2 Mistletoe Madness & Mistletoe Mile 6280 Highway 129 9 am – 5 pm Facebook: MontereyMistletoeMadness MONROE/WEST MONROE Throughout December monroe-westmonroe.org December 2 Gala Performance Rudolph & Act II The Nutcracker Monroe Civic Center 7:30 pm (318)388-3011 NEW ORLEANS Throughout December neworleansonline.com neworleanscvb.com December 16, 17, & 22 New Orleans Ballet Theatre presents The Nutcracker Orpheum Theatre 2 & 7 pm neworleansballettheatre.com PORT ALLEN Throughout December westbatonrougemuseum.com December 3 Holiday Open House West Baton Rouge Museum 2 – 5 pm / Free westbatonrougemuseum.com ST. FRANCISVILLE Throughout December westfelicianahistoricalsociety.org stfrancisville.us

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Louisiana Up & Coming! DECEMBER December 1 - 3 Christmas in the Country Throughout St. Francisville Friday: 5:30 – 7 pm Saturday: All day Sunday: 10 am – 4 pm (225)635-3873 / stfrancisvillefestivals.com December 2 Christmas Tour of Homes Throughout St. Francisville 10 am – 4 pm (225)635-3364 / stfrancisville.net December 8, 12, & 22 Plantation Markets The Myrtles Plantation 8:30 am – 12:30 pm December 9, 12, & 23 Plantation Markets Nottoway Plantation 2 – 8 pm VIDALIA Throughout December cityofvidalia.com Every Wednesday 7KH 'HOWD )DUPHU·V 0DUNHW Old Courthouse 8 am – Noon December 3 A Down Home Country Christmas Parade Carter Street 3 pm (318)757-5486

Bluffs & Bayous { December 2017 { Page 47

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Mississippi Up & Coming! DECEMBER visitmississippi.org BROOKHAVEN Throughout December facebook.com/VisitBrookhavenMS visitbrookhavenms.com Every Wednesday &KLOGUHQ·V 6WRU\ 7LPH /LQFROQ /LEUDU\ &KLOGUHQ·V 'HSW 10 – 11 am lif.lib.ms.us December 1 – 3 & 8 – 10 Miracle on 34th Street Haven Theatre (601)990-2243 / haventheatre.org December 2 Meet & Greet with Santa and Outdoor Screening of Elf Mary Jane Lampton Auditorium 5:30 – 7:30 pm / Movie: 6:30 pm (601)833-1411 CANTON cantontourism.com Through December 23 Victorian Christmas Historic Canton Courthouse Various events & times cantontourism.com JACKSON Throughout December dulinghall.com msmuseumart.org visitjackson.com jacksonfreepress.com/calendar Through– December 2 Chimneyville Crafts Festival Mississippi Trade Mart Thursday: Preview Party 6 – 9 pm Friday: 9 am – 6 pm Sat.: 9 am – 5 pm (601)856-7546 Through December 24 Pictures with Santa Northpark Mall northparkmall.com

Bluffs & Bayous { December 2017 { Page 49

DECEMBER Mississippi Up & Coming! December 1 – 3 Ballet Mississippi presents The Nutcracker Thalia Mara Hall Friday: 7:30 pm / Sat. & Sun.: 2 pm balletms.com December 5 – 21 Beauty and the Beast New Stage Theatre (601)948-3531 / newstagetheatre.com December 9 & 10 MS Metropolitan Ballet presents The Nutcracker Jackson Prep 2 & 7 pm / Nutcracker Sweet Tea Party: Follows 2 pm shows (601)853-4508 / msmetroballet.com MAGNOLIA Throughout December magnoliachamberofcommerce.com Throughout December 0DJQROLD )DUPHU·V 0DUNHW Downtown Magnolia 8 am - Noon (601)783-6572 MCCOMB Throughout December pikeinfo.com Through February 25 GR LW H[KLELW Various Venues psa-ms.org/do-it Every Monday Storyhour - Toddlertime McComb Library 11 am pawls.org Every Thursday Storyhour - Preschool Age McComb Library 10 am pawls.org December 2 Christmas Parade Delaware Avenue 10 am (601)684-3056

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Mississippi Up & Coming! DECEMBER December 7, 9, & 10 Christmas in Tinseltown The Depot Theatre 7:30 pm & 2:30 pm Facebook: PikeCountyLittleTheatre MEADVILLE Throughout December meadvillems.com NATCHEZ Throughout December Live Music Event Calendar visitnatchez.org/full-event-calendar Throughout December visitnatchez.org See Natchez citysightseeingnatchez.com December 31 – January 6 Christmas in Natchez christmasinnatchez.com

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Mississippi Up & Coming! DECEMBER Through January 6 The Jeweled Christmas The Towers (601)446-6890/ (601)660-7300 (601)446-6345 / thetowersofnatchez.com

December 3 Natchez Festival of Music presents Alcorn Christmas Concert St. Mary Basilica 7 pm

Through December 15 Gingerbread House Contest Stanton Hall Gift Shop Drop off 3 divisions of competition (601)445-4420 / info@pilgrimagegc.com

December 7, 14, & 21 Plantation Markets Rosalie 8:30 am – 12:30 pm

December 1 Natchez Festival of Music presents Christmas Cabaret Natchez Convention Center 7pm/Individual $35 / Table $300 (601)446-9626 / natchezfestivalofmusic.com December 2 Christmas Parade Downtown 6 pm christmasinnatchez.com December 2 – 17 A Natchez Christmas Carol Natchez Little Theatre 7:30 & 2 pm (601)442-2233 / natchezlittletheatre.org December 3 Christmas Brunch & Photos w/Santa Dunleith / The Castle 10 am - 2 pm Photos / 11 am - 2 pm Brunch dunleith.com

December 8 Victorian Luncheon and Soup & Casserole Sale Magnolia Hall $15 (601)443-9065 December 9 2nd Saturday Christmas Market Downtown 8 am-Noon christmasinnatchez.com December 9 2nd Saturday Open House Arts Natchez Robin Person Featured Artist 5 - 7 pm / FREE (601)431-1433 December 9 Natchez JA presents Breakfast with the Grinch Duncan Park Canteen 8:30 am / $10

December 3 Christmas Tour of Natchez Homes Armstrong Library 2 – 5 pm (601)445-8862 / NatchezLibraryFriends.org

Bluffs & Bayous { December 2017 { Page 53

DECEMBER Mississippi Up & Coming! December 10 Auburn Christmas Open House Duncan Park 1 – 4 pm (601)442-5981 December 10 Lessons & Carols St. Mary Basilica 3 pm

PEARL pearlms.org Through January 6 Christmas Wonderland Across from Outlets of MS Ice Skating & Other Events (601)212-6810 / christmaswonderland PORT GIBSON Facebook: portgibson.chamber

OSYKA RIDGELAND December 9 Christmas Parade Railroad Avenue 4 pm (601)810-3953 December 9 Santa Fest Downtown Osyka Noon / Fireworks: 7 pm (601)810-3953

Throughout December visitridgeland.com December 5 – 31 Wonderland of Lights Freedom Ridge Park Until 10 pm visitridgeland.com SUMMIT Throughout December pikeinfo.com

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December 4 Christmas Parade Robb Street 6:30 pm (601)551-2705 December 7 Shopping with Santa The Summit Outpatient Clinic 4109 Hwy. 98 West / 4:30 – 7:30 pm January 13 An Evening with The Nelons & Brandon Andrews Adams United Methodist Church 6 pm BrandonAndrewsMusic.com TYLERTOWN Through - December 31 Christmas in the Park Drive Through Southwest Events Center 6 – 8:30 pm Passenger Vehicle: $5 / Commercial Vans: $10 / Buses: $20

Bluffs & Bayous { December 2017 { Page 55

DECEMBER Mississippi Up & Coming! VICKSBURG Throughout December southernculture.org visitvicksburg.com vicksburgartassociation.org tarawildlife.com Every Wednesday Storytime Public Library 700 Veto St. 10:30 am (601)636-6411 / Marie Cunningham December 2 10th Annual Holly Days Arts & Crafts Show SCHF 9 am – 3 pm / $2 (601)631-2997 / southernculture.org December 2 Christmas Parade of Lights Downtown Vicksburg 5 pm (601)634-4527

December 4 – 8 V105.5 Caroling Contest Vicksburg Convention Center 6:30 pm / $5 (601)630-2929 December 7 6LS 'LS Q¡ 'DE Class by Margaret Thames Southern Cultural Heritage Foundation 6 - 8 pm $30 Member / $35 Non-Member (601)631-2997 / southernculture.org December 7 – 10 The Trial of Ebenezer Scrooge Parkside Playhouse 7 & 2 pm (601)636-0471 / vicksburgtheatreguild.com December 9 Breakfast with Santa Vicksburg Convention Center 8 – 10 am Advance: $7 / Door: $10 (601)630-2929

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December 9 Confederate Christmas Ball Old Court House Museum 7:30 pm / Period Dress Couple: $60 / Single: $30 (601)636-0741 WESSON Throughout December Facebook: Wesson Chamber WOODVILLE Throughout December townofwoodville.org Facebook: Woodville/Wilkinson County Main Street Association

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Bluffs & Bayous { December 2017 { Page 57

SOUTHERN SAMPLER

BY

Alma M. Womack

Pecans and Yule Tidings W

e have reverted to Central Standard Time, and it was everso-lovely to have a leisurely extra hour. I could drink an extra cup or two of coffee before starting the day, giving me some extra caffeine to work with. By the time this is printed, we will be through with the very pitiful pecan harvest. There were two varieties that had a decent crop, the Elliotts and the Gloria Grandes; but the rest were a bomb. My ever reliable Forkerts and Schleys failed, as did the other four varieties; so there is a short, short crop. This happens ever so often, but it is always a disappointment for that year and for the people who get my pecans. It’s a good thing that pecans weren’t my only Christmas money this year, or it would be a short Christmas for my gift recipients. The stores around have been stocked with Christmas supplies since before Halloween articles were taken down, so we can all get in the holiday mood so far ahead of time that it is relief when it is over. That’s a terrible attitude, isn’t it? But two months of preparing and celebrating ‘the holidays’ just wears out some of us. I decorate just enough to make the grandsons happy, so they won’t think that Mrs. Scrooge lives here on the banks of Tupelo Brake. Christmas is still a magic, wonderful time to them, so I will comply with their expectations. Most of my decorations come from the woods and the lake banks, so I don’t have a lot invested in my celebration of the season. I do enjoy the greenery and the red berries and

the twinkling white lights, so I gather a plentiful supply of each and am liberal in their use. It would be nice if I could decorate my yard, but it is just impossible. For my class UHXQLRQ WKLV \HDU , KDG D SRW Ă€OOHG ZLWK cotton and one of those scarecrow decorations prevalent in the fall, and it lasted one day. The next morning after the party, the scarecrow was in clumps of fabric and straw, and the cotton was strewn all across the front yard. I just don’t see any reason to repeat that disaster with one in Christmas colors. One thing that can be GRQH RXW RI WKH UHDFK RI WKH Ă€YH GRJV LV WR place wreaths on doors and on trees, so I am liberal in my use of the wreaths decorated with colorful ribbons of Christmasy colors. I put bows on all the mailboxes on our road, too, to add just another little bit of Christmas cheer. Shopping of any kind is at the bottom of my list of “things I like to do.â€? Christmas shopping is no exception; it is so hard for me to think of something for people who need absolutely nothing in the material world. In this modern world, people do not wait for Christmas to get a needed item, like we used to do in the years long gone. A new coat, a new pair of boots, these were put under the Christmas tree for a much appreciated gift. I believe the popular gifts now are thousand dollar cell phones, game systems, computers, all electronic/battery powered devices that keep us linked to the wide cyberspace world. Changing times and all.

Page 58 { December 2017 { Bluffs & Bayous

The beautiful church programs on Christmas never go out of style and are always a highlight of the Christmas season for me. The old Christmas story hymns connect us to our childhood days when we sang these very same songs in our Christmas programs. My childhood home church, Utility Baptist in Jonesville, always had a children’s choir to sing a special song during the holidays. I can still see and hear in my mind’s eye, young David Roy Chevallier singing the bass part in the Little Drummer Boy, for he sang it with an enthusiasm missing in adult renditions. A good memory from a while ago. It is my hope that this Christmas season will bring the real Christmas story to the forefront of our lives, and that we will always remember that the true Christmas is not Santa Claus or reindeer or expensive gifts. Instead, it is the gift to the world of the Christ Child as the conduit to God, a means for our salvation and a proof of God’s love for his people. May all of our readers have a blessed, joyous Christmas and the prospects of a prosperous and positive New Year.

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