January 2013 Bluffs & Bayous by Bluffs & Bayous Magazine

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From Your Publisher . . .

e welcome the New Year, the calendar’s season of fresh starts, with thoughts of prosperous, new beginnings. We highlight a number of beautiful weddings that took place during 2012 and capsule several engagement announcements as well, all calling for celebrations, parties, and toasts to the future. While we are delighted to run wedding and engagement announcements throughout the year, we look forward to devoting one particular issue of the year to share with our readers the many facets that go into orchestrating a wedding—its photographers, coordinators, florists, caterers, cakes, musicians, bands, and venues for ceremonies and receptions alike. Of the weddings we share with our readers this first month of 2013, each event takes on the personality of the featured couple and their family and friends, and each is unique, personal, and lovely in its own sphere. In addition, our regular contributors offer their take on the New Year and new seasons and happenings in their own lives. Our orchid guru Robert Ferguson shares his knowledge about growing orchids and his desire to create a following of fellow orchid growers. January continues our area’s always busy schedule, hosting a myriad of activities along with the many bridal fairs and bridal shows throughout the region. Be sure to check out this issue’s “January . . . Up & Coming” so you’ll not miss the many occasions to participate in our communities’ activities and kick off 2013

in just the right way. Also “Up & Coming” with Bluffs this month is a new contributor Becky Junkin although she is not new to “contributing” her recipes to family, friends, and a throng of avid followers. In each issue’s “G’s Fare,” her monthly column, she will feature menus and recipes from her archives of entertaining throughout the years. Soon, you, too, will eagerly anticipate her monthly delights. We conclude this New Year’s note with our most important message of all—our abounding appreciation of your adamant support of and enthusiasm for Bluffs & Bayous. We are humbled by the many blessings you have afforded our expanding, multi-media publication and by the many friends we continue to enfold in the widening circle of our life along and beyond the Mississippi. Happy New Year!

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C o n t r i b u t o r s 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.

Becky Junkin, mother of four, grandmother of soon-to-be six, is a lifelong Natchez resident and a retired elementary teacher of twenty four years. She is a certified Pilates instructior and owner of Pur Pilates Studio. She and her husband Jerry live and entertain in their antebellum home Heckler Hall.

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.

Columnist Ross McGehee, a lifelong resident of Natchez, Mississippi, owns a diversified and far-flung farm operation.

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.

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.

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

on the cover Framed by the majestic Mississippi River, Callie Keller, prior to her October 2012 wedding to James Kolby Godfrey, pauses on the historic grounds of Magnolia Vale in Natchez, Mississippi. See wedding feature on pages 66 to 67.

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 bluffsmag@gmail.com bbupandcoming@gmail.com media.bluffsandbayous@gmail.com www.bluffsbayous.com

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January 2013 FEATURES

Brown and Kelpe Engagement ................................................................................ 40 Engle and Smith Engagement .................................................................................. 41 Bennett and Settle Engagement .............................................................................. 42 Alwood and Edwards Wed in Natchez ............................................................... 44-45 Young and Crawford Wedding ........................................................................... 46-47 Jackson and Beassie Nuptials............................................................................... 48-49 Edwards and Hinson Wedding ............................................................................ 50-52 Wallace and Smith Wedding ............................................................................... 56-58 Welch and Causey Wedding ................................................................................ 60-62 Wisner and Calhoun Wedding ............................................................................ 64-65 Keller and Godfrey Wedding .............................................................................. 66-67

Wedding Shower Brunch pages 8 - 10

FAVORITES All Outdoors Outside Plumbing................................................................................................. 16-17

Events January Premier Events ............................................................................................. 90 January Up & Coming! ....................................................................................... 91-102

G's Fare Wedding Shower Brunch ....................................................................................... 8-10

In the Garden Rhyncholaelia Digbyana ........................................................................................... 24

Legal Notes Law Along the Mississippi................................................................................ 104-105

Something Scrumptious Edna’s Cake Creations, Natchez, Mississippi ....................................................... 32-33

Southern Sampler Comforting Thoughts for 2013 .............................................................................. 106

THE social SCENE

Carr Central High School Reunion ................................................ 12-14 Natchez Music Festival Presents Die Fledermaus in October.............18 25th Anniversary Junior Auxiliary Shrimp Dinner ..............................19 Camellia Society’s Annual Christmas Party ................................... 20-21 Southwest Mississippi Art Guild Brunch .............................................25 Pilgrimage Garden Club Honors Alma Dale Campbell ................ 26-29 YMCA Halloween Party ................................................................. 30-31 NRMC Hosts Chamber After Hours ............................................... 68-70 Christmas in Natchez............................................................................71 Celebrating Oktoberfest ................................................................ 72-73 Vicksburg JA Fall Party ................................................................... 74-75 Krewe of Phoenix Announcement Party ..................................... 79-83 McComb Junior Auxiliary Social ..........................................................84 Miss America Mother-Daughter Tea ............................................ 88-89 The Boy Who Saved My Life Booksigning ........................................103 Newly Organized Natchez B & B Association ...................................103

Edna’s Cake Creations, Natchez, Mississippi pages 32 - 33

THE wedding SCENE

Bridal Tea Honors Lou Ellen Williams .............................. 34 Willards’ Golden Anniversary ........................................... 35 Bennett and Settle Engagement Party ....................... 36-38 Bridal Luncheon Honoring Katie Cutrer .......................... 39

Welch and Causey Wedding pages 60 - 62 Bluffs & Bayous { January 2013 { Page 7

G's Fare

by Becky Junkin

Wedding Shower Brunch

s we welcome the New Year, we welcome a new face to our Bluffs & Bayous contributing writersâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; Becky Junkinâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;who will be sharing with our readers a wide range of delectable recipes from her collection of amazing and creative menus and meals, tapping her own archives as well as those of her family and

friends. Known for her hospitality, finesse, and excellence of cuisine in hosting a spectrum of social gatherings, Becky will provide monthly temptations of intriguing menus and recipes to celebrate the times of our lives. We are excited to have her on board at Bluffs and invite you to partake of her fabulous fare.

Tea Punch 8 tea bags 3 quarts boiling water 3/4 cup sugar 1 32-ounce bottle ginger ale 1 12-ounce can frozen lemonade concentrate Steep tea bags in water for 10 minutes. Remove tea bags and mix tea with remaining ingredients. Chill. Ginger ale may be chilled and added just before serving if a more carbonated punch is desired. Serves 15.

Cake Balls 1 18.25-ounce package strawberry cake mix 1 16-ounce container prepared strawberry frosting 1 box almond bark or chocolate coating Prepare the cake mix according to package directions using any of the recommended pan sizes. When cake is done, crumble while warm into a large bowl, and stir in the frosting until well blended. Refrigerate for 30 minutes or until mixture becomes firm enough to handle. Melt coating in a glass bowl in the microwave or in a metal bowl over a pan of Page 8 { January 2013 { Bluffs & Bayous

simmering water, stirring occasionally until smooth. Use a melon baller or small scoop to form balls of the cake mixture. Dip the balls in chocolate using a toothpick or fork to hold them. Place on waxed paper to set. Makes 3 dozen.

Mint Brownies First Layer 1 cup sugar ½ cup margarine 4 eggs 1 cup flour 1 16-ounce can chocolate syrup Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Cream sugar and margarine. Add eggs, beating well. Add flour and chocolate syrup; mix until smooth. Spread on lightly greased 10x15-inch baking pan (cookie sheet with lip). Bake 20 minutes. Cool. Second Layer 3½ to 4 cups powdered sugar ½ cup margarine 4 tablespoons milk 1 teaspoon peppermint extract 4 drops green food coloring Blend powdered sugar and margarine. Add milk, peppermint and food coloring; stir until smooth. Spread onto first layer and refrigerate for 20 minutes Third Layer 1 12-ouonce package chocolate chips ½ cup margarine Melt chocolate chips and margarine together. Mix well and spread over second layer. Cool, cut, and serve, or cool, cut, and freeze for serving later. Makes 48 brownies.

Egg and Artichoke Casserole 4 6½-ounce jars marinated artichoke hearts 1/2 cup chopped green onions 1 tablespoon canola oil 2 to 3 garlic cloves, minced 8 eggs, lightly beaten 1 4½-ounce jar sliced mushrooms, drained 3 cups (12 ounces) shredded sharp cheddar cheese 1 cup butter-flavored cracker crumbs (about 25 crackers) Drain artichokes, reserving 1/2 cup marinade. Set aside. Cut artichokes into slices; set aside. In a small skillet, sauté green onions in oil until tender. Add garlic; cook 1 minute longer. Remove from the heat. In a large bowl, combine the eggs, artichokes, mushrooms, cheese, cracker crumbs, onion mixture, and reserved marinade. Transfer to a greased 13x9-inch baking dish. Bake uncovered at 350 degrees for 35 to 40 minutes or until a knife inserted near the center comes out clean. Let stand for 5 minutes before cutting. Yields 9 servings.

1 (8 oz.) sour cream 2 cups cheddar cheese, grated 2 cups crushed cornflakes ½ cup melted butter or margarine Combine all ingredients and pour in 9x13-inch casserole. Top with mixture of cornflakes and butter. Bake at 350 degrees for 45 to 50 minutes.

Cream Cheese Danish 1 egg yolk, beaten 2 cans refrigerated crescent rolls 2 8-ounce packages cream cheese ¾ cup sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla Spread one can of rolls in 9x13-inch pan, pinching seams together. Mix cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla, and spread on top of spread-out roll. Top with other can of rolls and pinch side seams together. Brush top with egg yolk mixture. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. (You may need to cover top with foil for the last few minutes.) You can top with a drizzle of confectioner’s sugar and water.

Hash Brown Potato Casserole

Cherry Almond Coffeecake

1 pound hash brown potatoes thawed ½ teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon pepper ¼ cup finely chopped onion 1 can cream of chicken soup 1 (8 oz.) French onion dip

1 cup sour cream ¼ cup water 3 eggs 1 package white cake mix 1 21-ounce can cherry pie filling ¼ cup sliced almonds Bluffs & Bayous { January 2013 { Page 9

1½ cups confectioner’s sugar 2 tablespoons milk 1 dash vegetable oil Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Generously grease and flour one 15½x10½-inch jelly roll pan. Mix sour cream, water, and eggs. Stir in cake mix until moistened. The batter will be lumpy. Spread into pan. Drop pie filing by large spoonfuls onto batter. Bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes or until cake tests done. Sprinkle cake with almonds and drizzle with glaze. To make glaze: Mix sugar, milk, and vegetable oil. Stir in a few extra drops of milk if necessary. Stir until mixture is smooth and of desired consistency. Drizzle over still-warm cake.

Ham Biscuits with Sweet and Savory Butters

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Mary’s Tea Biscuits Bone-in ham, sliced, from your local deli Bake biscuits as directed. Heat ham and layer onto hot biscuits. Serve butters on the side. Sweet Butter Soften 1 stick of butter. Add ¼ cup of your favorite preserves. Mix together and return to refrigerator to firm up. Savory Mustard Butter 1 cup butter softened 2 tablespoons minced sweet onion 2 tablespoons spicy brown mustard Stir together all ingredients until blended.

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THE social SCENE | Vicksburg, MS | Carr Central High School Reunion

Carr Central High School Reunion On October 5 and 6, 2012, graduates of Carr Central High Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Classes of 1933 through 1959 gathered at the Vicksburg, Mississippi, Convention Center for a reunion celebration. Carr Central High School, no longer in existence, was located in Warren County, Mississippi.

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Elva Lee Peyton King, Mary McCormack Brown, and Ruth Hullum Gay Ed Rogge and Helen Henry Rogge Faye and Herb Wilkinson with J. B. Haden Joe and Eleanor Abraham Durst Wesley Lominick, Raymond Henderson, and J. B. Haden Tom Ramsey and Donna Musil Schreiner Gene Watters, Joyce Cadenhead, and Frances Schaffer

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George Curry, Frances Curry Schaffer, and J. B. Haden David and Jane Speyerer with Roy Wells Cicero LaHatte, J. B. Haden, George Cronia, and Gordon Evans J. B. Haden and Erwin Baylot J. B. and Gertrude Ables Haden Darlene and Wes Lominick

Carr Central High School Reunion | Vicksburg, MS | THE social SCENE

14 Tom and Beverly Blackmon Caruthers 15 Jane Speyerer and Deloris Koury Nosser 16 Jane Speyerer and T. Martin 17 Jimmy and Ann Vessell 18 Harold Whatley and Lerlyne Hammond Cronia

19 Leslie Marcus and Gertrude Ables Haden 20Mary Louise Nosser and Wes Lominick 21 Ethel and Jim Pickens 22Thomas and Janice Bowers Arnold with Ethel Pickens

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THE social SCENE | Vicksburg, MS | Carr Central High School Reunion

23Elsie McGee and Deanna Miller 24Peggy Griffin with June 25 26

Meacham Hill and her daughter Karen Hill Tom Ramsey and Dorothy Stamm Neill Freddy and Sara Abraham

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All Outdoors

by Ross McGehee

Outside Plumbing

“I

wouldn’t let him build a ‘two-holer’ for me!” When that comment was made lately, a young person listening nearby looked quizzically but didn’t say anything at the time. Later he asked what the meaning of the phrase was. In short, it’s not a very flattering commentary on someone’s carpentry skills. We are constantly reminded of our impending individual obsolescence by the lack of understanding that the young folks have of our historical references and phraseology. So we have to be patient and hope their young eyes don’t glaze over when we attempt to explain the significance of something as simple as a “two-holer” and why they should be grateful for not having an immediate knowledge of its function. Let’s not forget the Sears-Roebuck catalog, or basket of corn cobs. Indoor plumbing is more than a modern convenience. Nowadays, it is a necessity for most families. But there was a time in the not-so-distant past when only a few had that luxury. And to be quite honest, there are still some homes and quite a few hunting camps with outdoor facilities. Outhouse, privy, johnny-house— whatever the name—they are more about function than form. Most are of pretty basic construction since all you’re looking for is a wooden un-portajohn. So what’s a two-holer? Back in the day, households for whatever reason had a need for a facility with more than one accommodation. So rather than a single service plank there were two access positions in place. I have been a witness to the existence of a four-hole outhouse that was behind the Lagonia Plantation house in Church Hill before the yard was cleaned up back in the early 1960s. Still have the seats stored in a barn.

It begs the question here: What need is there in having more than one seating position? I am not that gregarious! Other than the need for having several different sizes for children and big ole Uncle Vester, I can’t come up with a reason without becoming too indelicate. But having a twoholer would seem to be a symbol of affluence, or effluents. Sorry, that one just wrote itself. I wish I’d taken a picture of the two-story outhouse I saw years ago! REALLY would like to know how well that worked out! The ostentatious brick outhouse I once saw surely was only constructed for the purpose of coining a popular phrase. They both had the requisite sliver of a moon on the door which regardless of the quality of workmanship is needed for ventilation and light. Ask a devoted bottle collector where to hunt for good bottles in town and many will tell you to look for the old outhouse spots in the backyards of the old homes. Dig them up and you may find that bottle that ole Uncle Vester pitched into the depths when he was trying to sneak a drink past the lady of the house. Coins that fell out of pockets are there too. And many sneaked to the back yard to smoke knowing that they could destroy the evidence where nobody cared to look. I heard of one incident where that didn’t turn out too well. Apparently, there was a situation where a snake was seen crawling into an outhouse. Well, it was in the backyard, and snakes don’t know what the utility of one building is from another. But having a snake around was not going to be acceptable. So a liberal amount of gasoline was

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poured in and around the structure and the remainder of the (thankfully) small can was poured into the pit. A short period of time later, the teenage son of the family saw fit to pay a visit to the outhouse. While he was there (it was a oneholer so he figured he’d not be interrupted), he decided to light a cigarette. THAT was not a problem until he pitched the still lit match into the depths. The resulting explosion politely pitched him into the yard with the walls, roof, seat, and anything else that we’d rather not experience on our person raining down, on and around him. The indignity was only exceeded by the extremely painful condition of whatever bare skin was exposed to the flash. I am told that he slept on his stomach for weeks following the episode. How many pranks have been pulled on “occupants” over the years? Catch a guy who is “currently indisposed” and all sorts of malice is possible! Firecrackers slipped through the back wall, doors being blocked shut and trapping someone inside are nothing in comparison to what one group of gentlemen pulled on a companion many years ago. I can’t enumerate all the atrocities the victim had perpetrated on his peers to provoke them into such heinous retribution

but it’s safe to say that he had it coming. One of his hunting camp acquaintances opined that it seemed like “Pete” was in a twelve-step program to get kicked out of the group. Among his infractions was everything that invites the interest of local game wardens like hunting over bait, hunting after dark, shooting over the limit, and using a rifle during bow season. There was also callous disregard for the other members of the group. He constantly wandered around the woods while others remained in their assigned spots and refused to comply with any mutually agreed upon rules. But they couldn’t kick him out because he owned the land! Pete wasn’t much on maintenance because it always seemed to interfere with his hunting or fishing If something fell into disrepair, he’d replace it instead of fixing it. Consequently, much of what he owned was in a constant state of decline. Trucks that needed just a little something done to make them operable littered the yard at the camp. A boat that had a rivet missing from the hull sat submerged in front of the camp with only the top of the outboard motor showing above the water. And then there was the outhouse.

The camp had electricity but Pete was too cheap (or broke) to drill a well for running water. He had hauled in a trailer full of plumbing supplies and toilets from a demolition job in town, but it sat in the camp yard for a year waiting for whatever it took to get Pete in gear. The condition of the outhouse was not high on Pete’s priority list but it was getting pretty high on everyone else’s. The other problem was that Pete is one of those people that doesn’t want to do anything or allow anything to be done unless he thinks it is his idea. So outhouse renovation languished. One of the gang happened across (shoot, he went hunting it) a piece of lumber that looked exactly like the seat in Pete’s outhouse. The only difference was that it was totally consumed on one side by termites. It took some time but he manufactured and conditioned the hole in the board to look as old and worn as the one currently in the outhouse. After he made the swap he warned a select group of guys of his architectural modification and commenced to cooking a batch of chili to celebrate opening day of deer season. As was his habit, Pete showed up at the camp with no provisions and helped

himself to what someone else had cooked, which happened to be the chili. The rest of the gang claimed to have already eaten. About one a.m., the gang was awakened by considerable screaming and cursing coming from Pete at a location generally relative to the outhouse. For some strange reason, the seat in the outhouse, after all those years, had picked the night before deer season to give in. It doesn’t take much imagination to get a mental image of Pete’s condition. Remember, there was no running water to wash him off with and the gang had summarily locked him out of the camp due to his odiferous condition. He attempted to wash off in the creek in front of the camp but ultimately had to drive home for a shower and change of clothes, then clean his truck back out to return to the camp the next morning. The upside to all this was that it wasn’t too long before indoor plumbing was installed in the camp. But Pete didn’t do any of the work. His excuse was that his gagreflex was still pretty sensitive around toilet facilities. As for the guy that pulled the stunt, I don’t think he helped much either. One of his buddies remarked, “I wouldn’t let him build a two-holer for me.”

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THE social SCENE | Natchez, MS | Natchez Music Festival Presents Die Fledermaus in October

Natchez Music Festival Presents Die Fledermaus in October The Natchez Festival of Music recently hosted the performance of Die Fledermaus at Margaret Martin Performing Arts Center in Natchez, Mississippi. Guests enjoyed the performance along with social time during intermission. Photographs by Tom Taylor

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Ushers Sarah Simmons, Brooke Wiley, Lydia McClatchey, and Ashland Loflin Maxine Brice Rena Jean Schmieg Bruce Brice and Mary Ann Kyle Cherish McCallum and Mela Person Nan Erle Schuchs, Julie Kendell, and Bobbye Henley Bobbye Henley, Dianna Glaze, and Mary Lessley Bobbye and Bill Henley Lynn Beach Smith and Gayle Healy

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25th Anniversary Junior Auxiliary Shrimp Dinner | Brookhaven, MS | THE social SCENE

25th Anniversary Junior Auxiliary Shrimp Dinner The Junior Auxiliary of Brookhaven, Mississippi, celebrated its twenty-fifth “Peel ‘Em and Eat ‘Em” Shrimp Dinner fundraiser in late October 2012. The organization orchestrates many service projects in the Brookhaven area to benefit children. The Shrimp Dinner is its only fundraiser for the year, and all the proceeds enable JA members to complete their service projects.

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Amy Valentine, Linda Moak, Pam Reid, Patti Moak, Celeste Carty, Shirley Estes, Sherra Smith, Susanne Britt, Carla Byrd, Erin Smith, and Mississippi Representative Sally Doty Katie Nations, Anna Smith, Dana Shoemake, Lisa Shann, and Courtney Bower Leigh Ann Martin and Shannon Miller with Christy Sheppard in background Shirley Estes with Secretary of State Lynn Finch Stephany Smith, Celeste Carty, and Tonya Stewart Anna Smith, Collette Sanford, TA Boyd, and Shannon Miller, JA President

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THE social SCENE | Brookhaven, MS | Camellia Society' s Annual Christmas Party

Camellia Society' s Annual Christmas Party The Camellia Society recently held its Annual Christmas Party at the Britt House in Brookhaven, Mississippi. Photographs by Bill Perkins

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Pitra Coggins and Pat Jacobs Edna Bishop Imogene Ryan, David Holland, and Paige Zimmerman Paige Zimmerman and Bethany Kimery John and Bessie Smith David Holland, Homer Richardson, John Smith, and Mike Jinks Gerri Jinks and Lynn Richardson Jack Combs and Pitra Coggins David and Kay Calcote

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Camellia Society' s Annual Christmas Party | Brookhaven, MS | THE social SCENE

10 JoAnn Rogers, Patsy Densen, and Mike Jinks 11 Constance Cowart, JoAnn Rogers, and Beverly Britt 12 Pam Womack, Connie Burke, and Shirley Estes

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In the Garden story and photos by Robert Ferguson

Rhyncholaelia Digbyana

ince this orchid’s discovery in 1846, Rhyncholaelia digbyana has been known by many names: Digby’s Beak Laelia, Bletia digbyana, Laelia digbyana, Brassavola digbyana, and its current name, Rhyncholaelia digbyana. It is the only known species in Rhyncholaelia. There is also only one other naturally occurring variety ‘Fimbripetala’ other than the common garden variety. Since discovery, many cultivated digbyanas have been awarded by the AOS. Only after the discovery of DNA was this species moved from the Genus Brassavola. This orchid is an epiphytic native wild flower of Mexican and Central American tropical habitats. Growing in mostly full exposure to the sun on fence posts and sun-drenched trees, it produces a whitishgreen, coriaceous, single upright leaf with compact rhizomes that grow very slowly; and it produces roots only in late winter. It bears a single green or white bloom with a magenta spot on its labellum in the summer. This bloom, which only lasts about a week, has very good substance and

a lemon scented fragrance in the evening hours. The flower has a 6-to-10 inch stem that also serves a double purpose as an ovary to produce its seed. After the bloom is pollinated by a moth, this stem develops into a very large seed pod and can contain as many as 100,000 seeds. This orchid has a DECIDELY DRY dormant cycle that must be understood by the grower or the orchid will not bloom. Most all species of orchids have this dry dormant season. When purchasing Rhyncholaelia digbyana make sure it is an established division. Growers should resist all temptation to share this orchid with friends for it does not transplant well. Rhyncholaelia digbyana is a backbone for genetics when used in a Cattleya alliance breeding program.

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It enables Cattleyas to be grown in substantially more light. Although digbyana does not produce more than a single bloom per growth, Cattleya genetics allows for 2 to 3 blooms per growth. When bred with just Cattleya, very large blooms can be produced, up to 8” in diameter as in Bc. Mount Hood ‘Mary’ AM/AOS and Bc. Mount Anderson ‘Titanic’ AM/AOS. For the most part, digbyana only contributes white and lavender genes to its progeny. Most Brassocattleya hybrids are either of these two colors unless Laelia, Encyclia, or Sophronitis is also in the genetic pool. Then, these other colors will be expressed along with more rapidly growing orchids. The first registered hybrid using Rhycholaelia digbyana was recorded in 1889 by a Mr. Veitch of the UK. This hybrid was named Bc. Digbyano-mossiae. Since this initial breeding, many thousands of hybrids have been produced. With the help of the American Orchid Society, Mr. Fred Sanders of the UK compiled a nine-volume set of publications about orchid hybrids. In the past, hours of research went into compiling a family lineage for a hybrid. Today, however, all this information is available on DVDs; and with the push of a button, it appears on the computer screen.

Southwest Mississippi Art Guild Brunch | McComb, MS | THE social SCENE

Southwest Mississippi Art Guild Brunch On Saturday, September 8, 2012, the Southwest Mississippi Art Guild held an auction and brunch in McComb, Mississippi, at PJâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s of New Orleans. Patrons browsed, admired, and had an opportunity to bid on and buy pieces at the auction. Teri Barnes served as auctioneer, and Brenda Rollinson entertained by playing the hammered dulcimer. Photos by Elise Parker

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Prudence Magehee and Connie Lambuth Lisa Hammack and Teri Barnes Tommy Morgan, Tracey Farrell, Nelda Whittington, and Caroline Whittington Whitney Howell, Hannah Hinckley, Lorelai Davis, Gracie Knight, and Bri Lowery Ashley and Molly Casey Nancy and Bon Hensarling Emily and Connie Lambuth

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THE social SCENE | Natchez, MS | Pilgrimage Garden Club Honors Alma Dale Campbell

Pilgrimage Garden Club Honors Alma Dale Campbell On November 24, 2012, The Governing Board of historic Longwood, one of the vintage properties of the Pilgrimage Garden Club in Natchez, Mississippi, held its first Jazz Dinner in the Round in the antebellum mansion, honoring Alma Dale Campbell, one of the Grande Dame’s of the Pilgrimage Garden Club. The event featured a cocktailsand-hors-d’oeuvres hour with a silent auction, followed by a seated chateaubriand dinner. The live auction, hosted by Rusty Jenkins, along with dinner and music was held in the mansion’s vast octagonal rotunda on the second floor. On hand to deliver the evening’s tribute to Mrs. Campbell was her granddaughter, award-winning journalist Campbell Brown. Photographs by Tom Taylor

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Campbell Brown with Alma Dale Campbell Sharon and Mike Blattner Bettye Jenkins and Rusty Jenkins Diana Glaze and Richard Hess Meredith and Tom St. Clair Hedy Boelte and Sandy Taylor Marsha Colson, Devie Slater, Andrew Baker, Missy Rentfro, Sandy Taylor, Cammie Dale, and Lucianne Wood Patrick McDonough, Lisa Kelso, Lee Jones, and Lynn and Leigh DeLaughter

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Pilgrimage Garden Club Honors Alma Dale Campbell | Natchez, MS | THE social SCENE

9 John McCullough and Terry Trovato 10 Catherine Campbell and Donna Campbell

11 Alma Dale Campbell and Amon Jordan 12 Robin Pearson and Bill Collins 13 Charles Davenport, Diane Bunch, and Al Walker

14 Brandon Dale, Bill and Cammie Dale, 15 9

Lara Griffiths, Judith Campbell, and Jason Jones Richie Montgomery, Miriam Montgomery, and Lisa Kelso Patricia Dale Roberts with Ann and Bruce Faillace

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THE social SCENE | Natchez, MS | Pilgrimage Garden Club Honors Alma Dale Campbell

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Pokey Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Beirne and Lynn Leet Kathleen Mackey King and Chef Bingo Starr Doug and Dolly Freedman Jason Jones and Judith Campbell Jan Scarborough, Virginia Grace Scarborough, and Sandy Taylor Johnny Dale, Benny Jeansonne, Lara Griffiths, Priscilla Dale, and Catherine Lusk Pat Ferguson, Richard Leet, Mayor Butch Brown, and Kelly James Mike and Sharon Blattner, Terry and Meredith Trovato, and Wanda Smith

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Pilgrimage Garden Club Honors Alma Dale Campbell | Natchez, MS | THE social SCENE

25 Kathy Sizemore, Ann Watts, and Lynn James Leet

26 Laura Newkirk and Butch Brown 27 Hedy Boelte, Katherine Chamlee, and Judy Heard

28 Dolly Freedman, Dr. Jeff Traina, and Kathy Traina

29 Elly Smith, Blythe Smith,

Kathleen Mackey King, Dr. John Smith, and Katherine Chamlee

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THE social SCENE | Vicksburg, MS | YMCA Halloween Party

YMCA Halloween Party The annual YMCA Y’s Men’s Halloween Party was held at the Biscuit Company in downtown Vicksburg, Mississippi, at the end of October 2012.

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Marion and Ann Roberson Maggie Nasif and Amy Campbell Christy and Skipper Guizerix Jay and Sally Hopson Brian Lambiotte and Mike McMillan Lee Davis Thames, Jr., and Michelle Hasty Katie Feibelman, Sara McMillan, Stacey Lambiotte, and Jennifer Grey Logan Mailhot, Becca Flanagan, and Katie and Rich Feibelman

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YMCA Halloween Party | Vicksburg, MS | THE social SCENE

9 Chesley Lambiotte and Sarah Nasif 10 Louis Lambiotte and Forbes Grogan 11 Chesley and Brian Lambiotte 12 Rob and Jordan Amborn 13 Laura and Abe Kidder 14 Sarah and Chris Nasif 15 Lauren and Brent Cappaert with Leslie Sadler

13 11

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Something Scrumptious by Jennie Guido

Edna’s Cake Creations

Natchez, Mississippi

t almost all weddings, both the guests and the happy couple keep their eyes peeled for the little details throughout the ceremony and the reception. Whether checking out the lace on the dress or enjoying the fragrant flowers around the room, each part of a wedding is special in some way to someone. However, the detail that seems to take center stage at these functions is the bride’s cake. With

layers upon layers of sugar and frosting or even a tower of bite sized cupcakes, the wedding cakes of today can be found in all shapes, sizes, flavors, and themes to fit your individual “big day.” Thankfully, Natchez, Mississippi, is home to one of the best cake connoisseurs and bakers around—Edna Welch of Edna’s Cake Creations. As a veteran in the cake-baking business, Welch has created cake masterpieces

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of the Mississippi Capital building for Governor Haley Barbour’s son-in-law and even one of Vaught-Hemmingway Stadium for an event at Ole Miss. If there has been a particular cake needed for a wedding, Welch has seen it; and, most likely, she has baked it, frosted it, and put her own unique touch to it as well. Welch explained to me that the tradition of the wedding cake goes far back in time, that “Wedding cakes have been a staple of the wedding party since the early Roman Era with the slicing and serving of the wedding cake symbolizing good fortune and prosperity.” When I had a chance to talk to her about her business, she explained to me just how she got started in wedding confections: “I started baking all sorts of cakes in 1981. This was not a business for me at the time. I baked more as a favor for many of my friends and family Sometimes I would be paid, but for the most part, I did it for the experience and the love of baking. However, before long, it became a business. I do not know that I was prepared for all that this business has become over the years; but in the beginning, I did my best. For the most part, people seemed pleased with their cakes!” As so many have found out through the years, baking can be a trial-and-error endeavor. Welch is lucky to have had many

centerpiece of every reception, creating a statement about the style of the wedding. Welch’s designs can set the tone of a classic and timeless event with a more traditional, tiered cake, or give a modern spin on the whole event with a tower of cupcakes. For your next wedding party or brunch, or even just to have something a little sweet around the house, try this recipe for Angel Food Cake straight from Edna’s cake-baking archives!

the reserved sugar, beating continuously at medium speed. Once you have achieved medium peaks, sift enough of the flour mixture in to dust the top of the foam. Using a spatula, fold in gently. Continue until all of the flour mixture is incorporated. Place batter into a greased and floured Bundt pan, and bake at 350 degrees for 35 minutes or until done. Check cake with a wooden skewer. When it comes out dry, the cake is ready.

Angel Food Cake

teachers who helped her through any rough spots to learn and hone her baking techniques. She explained that she learned the basics “while taking a few classes at Copiah Lincoln Community College in the ‘80s”; and she added, “I was also fortunate enough to learn from another source— Mae’s Bakery on Morgantown Road. However, I was hungry to learn more.” After some time in the kitchen, Welch read books, watched videos, and took notes on the many techniques in the weddingcake world. With these resources, she was able to learn the art of sculptured cakes, fondant preparations, and sugar flowers. Each of these skills she still uses today to make some of the exquisite cakes you see at many of the weddings in the Miss-Lou. Just as what is considered “in” changes almost daily in fashion and design, so it is with the wedding cake business. Some of these changes are in details that Welch has noticed just in the last few weeks. “The trend as of now seems to be textured cakes,” she explained. “This can be either fluffing a cream cheese or butter cream icing or piping lacey, flowing patterns on a cake. Also, monograms on the side of the cake or standing on top as an innovative topper are very popular. Fondant is still popular, but I am seeing less of it in the last few weeks. It has such a beautiful, smooth look, but some brides do not care for the taste and texture of fondant.” However, one element remains the same when it comes to the wedding cake. It is the

1¾ cups sugar ¼ teaspoon salt 1 cup flour, sifted 12 egg whites 1/3 cup warm water 1 teaspoon vanilla 1½ teaspoons cream of tartar Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Using a food processor, blend sugar about 2 minutes until it is superfine. Sift half of the sugar with the salt and the cake flour, setting the remaining sugar aside. In a large bowl, use a whisk to thoroughly combine egg whites, water, vanilla, and cream of tartar. After 2 minutes, switch to a hand mixer or stand mixer. Slowly sift

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THE weddingSCENE | Osyka, MS | Bridal Tea Honors Lou Ellen Williams

Bridal Tea Honors Lou Ellen Williams A Bridal Tea honoring Lou Ellen Williams, bride-elect of Jeffrey Lyle Tarwater, was held recently at Lilybird Lodge in Osyka, Mississippi. Lou Ellen is the daughter of Linda Shanks Williams and the late Bernard Richard Williams, Sr., of Osyka. The nuptials are scheduled for December 1, 2012, at The Sonnet House in Leeds, Alabama.

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4 5 6 7

5 Jennifer Williams Weidig, Sally Williams Brink, Jane Williams, Lou Ellen Williams, and Lynn Williams Megan Wedgeworth, Holly Ott Savorgnam, Lou Ellen Williams, Hiedi Ott, Hanna Ott, and Hailey Ott Susan Tanner, Lisa Coleman, and Cheryl Melerine Frontâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Caroline Williams and Sydney Williams; backâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Linda Williams, Lou Ellen Williams, Rachel Williams, and Lily Williams

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Tammy Strickland, Diane Ryan, Stacee Ott, Karlene Morris, Suzanne Cutrer, Becky Wilson, Linda Williams, Lou Ellen Williams, Rosemary Ydarraga, Lynn Williams, Ruby Chambers, Ann Trappey, and Debbie Sassone Dr. Genie Kimmel, Robyn Dickinson, Lou Ellen Williams, and Jen Simmons Hilda Hines, Margie Orsi, Linda Williams, and Ellavee Varnado

Willard' s Golden Anniversary | Natchez, MS | THE weddingSCENE

Willards' Golden Anniversary Mary Francis and Wallace Willard of Natchez, Mississippi, who were married November 23, 1962, recently celebrated fifty years of marriage with a Golden Anniversary Party held at Evergreen Cottage in Natchez.

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Frontâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Caroline Bird and Sems Bird; backâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Arden Bird, Wallace Willard, and Mary Willard Wallace and Mary Willard

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THE weddingSCENE | Woodville, MS | Bennett and Settle Engagement Party

Bennett and Settle Engagement Party The lovely home of Raven and Bob Lewis in Woodville, Mississippi, was the scene of an engagement-announcement party honoring Mallorie Bennett and Preston Settle. The host couples, the wedding party, family, and friends gathered around the porches and in the home on Saturday, October 20, 2012, and enjoyed the eveningâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s celebration and cocktail buffet. The bride-to-be is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William W. Bennett of Woodville, and her fiancĂŠ is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Settle and Mrs. Susanne Seaborn, all of Fayette, Alabama. The wedding will be April 13, 2013, at Desert Plantation near St. Francisville, Louisiana.

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Mallorie Bennett and Preston Settle Mallorie Bennett, Nancy Vinci, and Preston Settle Cammie Settle, Mallorie Bennett, and Corley Anne Ross Mallorie Bennett and Corley Anne Ross Myrl Calvert and Jeanette Thimmesch Cheryl Cavin, Tim Sessions, and Martie Herrington Bill, Margery, and Mallorie Bennett with Preston Settle Linda and Joe Acker, Susanne Dearborn, Armand Schacter, Preston Settle, Mallorie Bennett, Sherry Settle, and Cammie Settle

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Bennett and Settle Engagement Party | Woodville, MS | THE weddingSCENE

9 Todd Gennardo and Shelly Davis 10 Julie Brashier, Margery Bennett, and Amy Jones

11 Pamela Keith and Margery Bennett 12 Jennifer Pardos, Luke Pardos, and Lee Ann Jones

13 Jay W. Bennett, Ruthie Davis, Margery 14 15 9

Bennett, Dodie Charlet, Shelly Hicks, Bill Bennett, and Morris Bennett Myrl and Larry Calvert Eric and Laney Skinner, Margery Bennett, Mallorie Bennett, and Preston Settle Leslie Navare, Mallorie Bennett, Preston Settle, and Laura Card

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THE weddingSCENE | Woodville, MS | Bennett and Settle Engagement Party

17 18 19 20 21 22 23

Front—Wayne Keith, Pamela Keith, Margery Bennett, Myrl Calvert, and Jeanette Thimmesch; back—Colin Scott, Bill Bennett, Mallorie Bennett, Preston Settle, Laurel Bennett, and Austin Goodfella Edine Seal, Overton Nicholas, Tim Sessions, and Corley Anne Ross Cynthia and Larry Calvert, Mallorie Bennett, and Preston Settle Bill and Margery Bennett, Debbie and Fred Bryant, Mallorie Bennett, and Preston Settle Bill, Margery, and Laurel Bennett Front—Jay W. Bennett, Lee Ann Jones, Mallorie Bennett, and Preston Settle; back—Laurel Bennett, Margery Bennett, Bill Bennett, and Butch Jones; Tim Sessions, Margery Bennett, and Donna Sessions

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Bridal Luncheon Honoring Katie Cutrer | Jackson, MS | THE weddingSCENE

Bridal Luncheon Honoring Katie Cutrer A bridal luncheon was held at The Fairview Inn in Jackson, Mississippi, on Saturday, September 1, 2012, in honor of Katie Cutrer, daughter of Eugene and Suzanne Cutrer of Osyka, Mississippi. The hat-and-glove event, hosted by senior leaders of the Mississippi State Society Children of the American Revolution, made for a most memorable occasion.

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Katie Cutrer Mary Elizabeth Stringer, Katie Cutrer and Emily Lambuth

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4 Connie Lambuth, Carla Stringer, Susan Jones, Katie Cutrer, Suzanne Cutrer, Kathy Henry, and Virginia Carlton Susan Jones, Carla Stringer, Kathy Henry, Katie Cutrer, seated, and Suzanne Cutrer Kathy Henry and Katie Cutrer Connie and Emily Lambuth with Katie and Suzanne Cutrer Katie Cutrer, Kathy Henry, and Phoebe and Rachel Carlton

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Brown and Kelpe Engagement Mr. and Mrs. Ray L. Bradford of Natchez, Mississippi, announce the engagement of their daughter Rebecca Anne Brown to Lance Wayne Kelpe, son of Dr. and Mrs. Jim Finley and Mr. and Mrs. Bruce Kelpe, all of Ruston, Louisiana. The bride-to-be is the granddaughter of Ms. Linda McKeivier Warren of Denver, Colorado, and Mr. and Mrs. Bobby Bradford of Olla, Louisiana. She is a graduate of Cathedral High School in Natchez and of Louisiana Tech University in Ruston. In December 2012, she graduated from the Institute of Ultrasound Diagnostics in Mobile, Alabama. The groom-to-be is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Goss, Sr., and Mrs. Marilyn Rhodes, all of Ruston, and the great grandson of Mrs. Shelby Kirkham of Ruston. He is a graduate of Ruston High School and Louisiana Tech University. The wedding will be at 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 27, 2013, at Brandon Hall Plantation in Natchez, Mississippi, with the reception there following the ceremony.

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Engle and Smith Engagement Mrs. Billy Burton Bowman of Vicksburg, Mississippi, and Mr. Michael Thomas Engle, Jr., of Jackson, Mississippi, announce the engagement and approaching marriage of their daughter, Melanie Campbell Engle, to Robert Leverett Smith II, son of the late Mrs. Tucky Saint Roger of Tulsa, Oklahoma, and the late Mr. Robert Stafford Smith of New Orleans, Louisiana. Miss Engle is the granddaughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Jewel Hilton Campbell of Brookhaven and Mrs. Michael Thomas Engle, Sr., and the late Reverend Michael Thomas Engle, Sr., of Greenwood, Mississippi. Mr. Smith is the grandson of the late Reverend and Mrs. Clarence Edward Saint of Tulsa and the late Mr. and Mrs. Robert Leverett Smith of Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Miss Engle is a 1997 graduate of St. Aloysius High School in Vicksburg and a 2001 graduate of the University of Mississippi where she received a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration and was a member of Chi Omega sorority. Miss Engle received her Master of Business Administration from the University of Mississippi in 2004. The future groom is a 1990 graduate of Edison High School in Tulsa and a 1994 graduate of the University of Oklahoma where he received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism and was a member of Alpha Tau Omega fraternity. Mr. Smith received his Master of Business Administration in 2011 from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Miss Engle presently is the Deputy Executive Director of the Office of Advancement with the National Rifle Association. She also is a member of the Mississippi Debutante Society and the Junior League of Washington D.C. Mr. Smith is co-chair of the Legislative Practice with the Venable LLP law firm in Washington, D.C. The wedding will be celebrated on April 20, 2013, at the Church of the Holy Trinity in Vicksburg. A reception will follow at the Vicksburg Country Club.

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Bennett and Settle Engagement Mr. and Mrs. William W. Bennett of Woodville, Mississippi, are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter, Mallorie Honeycutt Bennett, to Preston Forest Settle, son of Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Settle and Mrs. Susanne Seaborn of Fayette, Alabama. The bride-to-be is the granddaughter of Mrs. Myrl Calvert of Woodville, Mississippi, and the late Mr. Calvert, and Mr. James Bennett of St. Francisville, Louisiana, and the late Mrs. Bennett. She is a graduate of Wilkinson County Christian Academy and Jones County Junior College and is employed as a registered nurse at Natchez Regional Medical Center, in Natchez, Mississippi. The groom-to-be is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Joe Acker of Fayette, Alabama, and Mr. and Mrs. William B. Settle of Jay, Florida. He is a graduate of Fayette County High School and Auburn University where he was a member of Delta Chi Fraternity. He is employed as a contractor for Avor Corporation in Afghanistan. The wedding will be held April 13, 2013, at 6:30 in the evening at Desert Plantation outside of St. Francisville, Louisiana, with Brother Bernard Waites officiating. The reception will immediately follow the ceremony.

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Alwood and Edwards Wed in Natchez August 12, 2012 | Natchez, Mississippi | Jenn Ocken Photographers

ary Margaret Alwood and Stephen Thomas Edwards were united in marriage August 11, 2012, in Natchez, Mississippi. The coupleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s parents are Mr. and Mrs. Richard Alwood of Ferriday, Louisiana, and Mr. and Mrs. Gary Earl Edwards of Natchez, Mississippi. The wedding ceremony was held at New Covenent Presbyterian Church officiated by Reverend Dennis Flach with music provided by Paula DeReuil and Burnley Cook. The bride was given in marriage by her father, Richard Calvin Alwood. The bride wore a Martina Liana lace A-line gown, accented with Parisian silk, highlighting a sweetheart neckline and empire waist. Swarovski crystals embellished the lace. Her veil was of handmade heirloom lace from Belgium belonging to the groomâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s greatgrandmother and worn by his great-grandmother, and mother.

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Shannon Matthews Alwood of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and Heather Dennig Burget of Vidalia, Louisiana, served as matrons of honor with Alexandra Margarete Roberts of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, serving as bridesmaid. Flower girls were the brideâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nieces, Sela Katherine Alwood and Sarah Elizabeth Alwood of Baton Rouge and Adeline Burget of Vidalia. Honor attendants were the brideâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s many childhood and college friends. Gary Earl Edwards and Houston Davis

Edwards of Natchez served as best men. Groomsmen were Lawrence Richard Alwood of Baton Rouge and Richard Calvin Alwood, Jr., of The Woodlands, Texas. Floral design for the wedding ceremony was by family friend Pam Harriss, and wedding coordination also was by a family friend, Cheryl Rinehart of Apropos, Ltd. Following the ceremony, the wedding party traveled to antebellum Routhland, home of Mr. and Mrs. Everette Ratcliffe of Natchez to have photos taken on the

historic grounds. Thereafter, the newlyweds arrived at the Vidalia Conference and Convention Center for their wedding reception. Throughout the evening, guests enjoyed music by The Tip Tops. As the reception concluded, the couple departed through a shower of sparklers with the Mississippi River providing a romantic backdrop. The couple honeymooned in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, and are now at home in Natchez, Mississippi.

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Young and Crawford Wedding March 17, 2012 | Starkville, Mississippi | Photographs by Christy Cutrer

lison Elise Young and Justin Tyler Crawford were united in marriage on Saturday, March 17, 2012, at First Baptist Chapel in Starkville, Mississippi, with the Reverend Ken Irvin of Kentwood, Louisiana, officiating and the Reverend T. W. Buford of Dothan, Alabama, providing the prayer. Reverend Buford was the minister officiating at the weddings of both the parents and grandparents of the groom. Parents of the bride are Mr. and Mrs. Paul Young, Jr., of Pheba, Mississippi. Grandparents of the bride are Mr. and Mrs. Paul Young, Sr., of West Point, Mississippi, and the late Mr. and Mrs. Willie Turnage of Montpelier, Mississippi. Parents of the groom are Mr. and Mrs. Douglas Crawford of Kentwood, Louisiana; and his grandparents are Mr. and Mrs. Sambo Cutrer of Osyka, Mississippi, and the late Thelma Crawford and Leon Crawford, both of Kentwood. The wedding reception was held at Plymouth Bluff Center in Columbus, Mississippi. On the eve of the wedding, at this same

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locale, the groomâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s parents and family entertained the bridal party and special guests. After honeymooning in the Bahamas, the couple returned to Canton, Mississippi, where they have made their home. The groom is employed at Madison Middle School, and the bride is employed at Southern Farm Bureau in Jackson, Mississippi.

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Jackson and Beassie Nuptials August 25, 2012 | Ridgeland, Mississippi | Marxy Nann Photography

elsey Ann Jackson and Mac Jared Beassie, both of Brookhaven, Mississippi, were united in marriage at 7:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 25, 2012, in a beautiful outdoor ceremony at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Tim Porter in Ridgeland, Mississippi. Mr. Porter is a cousin of the bride. Reverend Carl Smith officiated the wedding with Kelsie and Ryan Sims of Nashville, Tennessee, providing the music and song. The bride is the daughter of Teddy and Jennifer Jackson of Brookhaven and the granddaughter of Patsy Jackson and the late Don Jackson, and Clara Jackson and the late A.C. Jackson, all of Brookhaven.

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The groom is the son of Marcia SmithBeassie and Mike Beassie of Brookhaven and the grandson of Faye Smith and the late Delton Smith of Brookhaven and of Mr. and Mrs. Roy Beassie of Paris, Texas. Escorted by her father, the bride wore a designer gown of ivory taffeta and organza, fashioned with a strapless sweetheart neckline that featured intricate embroidered beading. The fit-and-flare-style dress had a wrapped, elongated bodice with a corseted back that eased into a skirt of rouched, swirled organza and taffeta ruffles falling into a sweeping chapellength train. Attending the bride as matron of honor was the groom’s sister, Micah Allen of Brookhaven. Bridesmaids were Joy Jones of Clinton, Mississippi, and Allison White of Brookhaven. Brandon Case of Brookhaven served as best man. Groomsmen were Collins Allen, brother-in-law of the groom, and Blake Brister, both of Brookhaven. Honorary groomsmen were nephews of the groom, six-year-old Jack Allen and four-year-old Mason Allen of Brookhaven. Serving as honorary attendant was Pearl, the groom’s yellow lab.

Ushers were Stone Underwood, Jake Errington, and Mitch Case, all of Brookhaven, and Keegan Westover of Ocean Springs, Mississippi. Immediately following the ceremony, guests gathered around the pool area for the reception where they were treated to Icees, a favorite of the bride and groom. Guests also enjoyed a variety of food stations including custom pizzas cooked in a wood burning pizza oven, a chef creating a variety of pasta dishes, and a carving station with a selection of meats. The four-tiered wedding cake, served in the guest house, was champagne flavored with a raspberry

champagne filling. The groom’s cheese cake bar was served in the rustic screened room by the pool. The duet Parish County–Ryan & Kelsie Sims of Nashville, Tennessee, along with Vonda Laird of Brookhaven provided entertainment and music for dancing. Guests enjoyed karaoke later in the evening. The groom is a 2011 graduate of Mississippi State University with a degree in Business Administration and is employed with Precision Drilling. The bride is finishing her degree in Communications/ Public Relations. She is also a motivational speaker on Female Bullying Education and Prevention in schools and at special events across the country with her program “Mean Girls Aren’t Cool.”

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Edwards and Hinson Wedding June 30, 2012 | Natchez, Mississippi | Anne McDaniel Photography

fter a seven-year courtship through high school and college, and a proposal in a hot-air balloon, Caroline Lees Edwards and Christopher Murphy Hinson, both of Natchez, Mississippi, were married Saturday, June 30, 2012, at 7:00 p.m. at St. Mary Basilica in Natchez. The nuptial mass was officiated by Reverend Alfred Camp and Reverend Leopold Keffler. Parents of the bride are Mr. and Mrs. Edward Blanchard “Duke” Edwards. Her grandparents are the late Mr. and Mrs. Julius Delane Thornhill of Vidalia, Louisiana, and the late Mrs. Ellen Blanchard Edwards and Mr. Gayle Edwards of Natchez. Parents of the groom are Mr. and Mrs. Quincy Christopher Hinson and Mr. and Mrs. Rudolph Wilson, all of Natchez. His grandparents are Mr. Claude “Buck” Pintard and the late Patricia Fore Pintard of Natchez and Mr. and Mrs. James Allen Hinson of Vidalia. Music for the ceremony was provided by Dr. Patrick Doherty, organist; Mr. David Troutman, violinist; and Mrs. Becky Stephens, soloist. Escorted by her father, the bride wore a gown by Martina Liana of Alencon lace and English net, fashioned with a sculptured strapless sweetheart neckline that closed in the back with covered buttons. A jewel-encrusted belt defined the natural waistline, and the fitted skirt with its flared hemline embellished with lace swept into a chapel train. She wore her aunt’s heirloom veil of lace designed and handmade in Brussels, Belgium, in the late 1800s. Complementing the bride’s ensemble was a handtied bouquet of white peonies and white roses. Attached to the bouquet was an antique handkerchief which the bride’s mother

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carried on her wedding day. Also attached to the bouquet was an antique button from the bride’s maternal grandmother’s wedding suit and lace from her paternal grandmother’s wedding veil. Whitney Mims Dollar of Natchez attended the bride as matron of honor. Other attendants were Joanna Biglane McNeel, cousin of the bride, of Ridgeland, Mississippi; Amanda Patricia Hinson, Briana Brooke Mophett, and Mallory Leeann Hinson, all sisters of the groom of Natchez; Sarah Wisner Calhoun of Vidalia; Emily Kay Stevens of New Orleans, Louisiana; Brittany Jeanne Laird of Baton Rouge, Louisiana; and Mary Martha Geoghegan of Jackson, Mississippi. They wore dresses of shadow chiffon, featuring crisscross bodices with one shoulder of charmeuse and chiffon roses and charmeuse skirts overlaid with chiffon. They carried hand-tied bouquets of pale pink peonies and white roses. Quincy Christopher Hinson, father of the groom, served his son as best man. Groomsmen were Andrew James Burns, Jr., of Ridgeland; Curtis Zackary Calhoun of Vidalia; Alexander Rutherford Cange of Seabrook, Texas; Preston Blanchard Edwards, brother of the bride, Jordan Brent Farmer, and Brock Lewis Vines, all of Natchez; and James Michael Holloway of Greenwood, Mississippi. Ushers were Phillip Michael Chambers of Senatobia, Mississippi; Cage Jackson Dill of Natchez, Jonathan Kole Junkin of Starkville, Mississippi; and William Alexander Middleton of Jackson. Scripture reader was Stephen Thomas Edwards, cousin of the bride, of Natchez. Following the ceremony, the bride’s parents hosted a reception at antebellum Stanton Hall and its Carriage House where guests dined and danced the night away to the music of Dr. Zarr’s Amazing Funk Monsters of Memphis, Tennessee. On the reception guest tables and food tables were silver urns filled with assorted Bluffs & Bayous { January 2013 { Page 51

white hydrangeas, lilies, stock, snapdragons, and dendrobium orchids along with pale pink larkspur and roses, accented with greenery. This same ensemble of flowers and greenery complemented the massive chandeliers over the dance floor. The five-tiered bridal cake was topped with fresh flowers and embellished with fresh flowers between the cake’s multi-flavored layers of vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, Italian cream, and lemon. The groom’s cake of chocolate, Italian cream, and red velvet was decorated with a Mississippi State theme, symbolizing the college years the couple spent cheering for Mississippi State (as they still do). The guests sent the wedding couple off amid ringing cowbells. On the Friday preceding the wedding, aunts of the bride hosted a bridesmaids’ luncheon at The Briars in Natchez; and that evening, the groom’s parents hosted a rehearsal dinner at The Vue Restaurant where arrangements of roses and baby’s breath decorated the wedding guests’ tables. Following a wedding trip to Antigua, the couple is at home in Magee, Mississippi.

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Wallace and Smith Wedding October 20, 2012 | Brookhaven, Mississippi | J M Photography

llyson Michelle Wallace and Christopher Michael Smith, both of Brookhaven, Mississippi, were united in marriage at 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 20, 2012, in a lovely outdoor ceremony at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Chris Loyd in Brookhaven with the Reverend Greg Warnock officiating. The bride is the daughter of Mrs. Phyllis Wallace and the late Mr. Don Wallace of Brookhaven. She is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Herbert Moore and Mrs. Yvonne Wallace and the late Mr. Irven Wallace, all of Brookhaven. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Mike Smith of Brookhaven and the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Calvin Smith and the late Mr. Dennis Smith, all of Brookhaven. White, illuminated pumpkins with a carved S lined the trail to the ceremony. For the ceremony, a rustic pergola was built on the site and covered with vines, smilax and a mix of white flowers, including Monte Casino aster, larkspur, stock, and misty white.

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Under the pergola was a zinc alter table with two, all white, urned arrangements of Vendela Roses, Eskimo Roses, white stock, Monte Casino, white hydrangeas, mixed fern, and Bells of Ireland. The altar table was covered with white pillar and votive candles. Escorted by her brother, Blake Wallace, down an aisle sprinkled with rose petals, the bride wore a strapless gown of silky taffeta, designed by Watters and Watters, with a sweetheart neckline and softly pleated bodice. A pearl and crystal beaded sash encircled the waist. The champagne ballgown skirt was accented with a hand-pleated floral design continuing to the hemline of the sweep train. The bride carried a wrapped stem bouquet of Eskimo roses, Vendela roses, white lisianthus, white stock, white hydrangea, hanging amaranthus, dark red anemones, and black dahlias. A handkerchief made from her late father’s shirt was embroidered with his and her initials. Also tied to the bouquet were his pocket watch and a charm with a picture of him. After walking the aisle to the front of the altar, the bride

placed a rose next to her father’s portrait alongside a lit candle. Attending the bride as matron of honor was the bride’s sister-in-law, Allison Wallace of Brookhaven. Maid of honor was her sister, Erica Wallace of Brookhaven. Bridesmaids were Taylor Berry, Lyndsay Caston, Kay Hoff, Natalie May, sister of the groom; Tara Paden, Savannah Palomarez, Marlee Price and Ashley Sykes. Junior bridesmaid was the bride’s niece, Katherine Wallace, and flower girl was the groom’s niece, Abby May. The maids’ bouquets included Eskimo roses, Vendela roses, stock, antique hydrangea, and assorted mixed roses. Mike Smith, the groom’s father, served as Best Man. Groomsmen were Nathan Berry, Garrett Dunn, Steven Gates, Chase Martin, Chris Newell, Lance Pepper, Brodie Pigott, Wade Smith and the bride’s brother, Taylor Wallace. Junior groomsman was the bride’s nephew, Tucker Wallace. Ring bearers were the bride’s nephews, Piker Wallace and John Patrick Wallace. Ushers were Lee Jones and John Michael Cliburn.

During the ceremony, vocal music was provided by Isabel Smith and Leah Stewart. The piano was played by Nancy Fisher, and Johnny Rainer accompanied on the guitar. Chiming of the Hour followed the ceremony and the reception ensued immediately thereafter around a picturesque pond. The registry table featured an urn arrangement in an urn of fern, antique hydrangea, mixed roses and Bells of Ireland. In the main food tent, guests enjoyed a menu of grilled chicken strips and brisket. A potato bar was also provided along with green bean casserole, strawberry and greens salad, pasta salad, gumbo and a station of several dips, including crawfish, spinach, and corn. All the food was served from copper dishes. Complementing the area were two large urn arrangements of antique hydrangea, orange lilies, mixed hybrid lilies, Endela roses, Osiana roses, Eskimo roses, Bells of Ireland, larkspur, stock, and white hydrangea. The cake tent held the bride’s table with her wedding portrait near her cake, a tiered, almond-flavored cake with almond filling. Nearby was an urn of white mixed

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roses, white hydrangea, deep red anemones, white lisianthus, and black dahlias The groom’s table displayed the groom’s cake, a Mississippi State University themed yellow cake with chocolate icing, accented by an urn filled with deep red hybrid lilies, antique hydrangea, Leonidis roses, mixed fern, Bells of Ireland, and black dahlias. The table was covered with mixed fern and antlers. The punch table held an urn of mixed roses, hybrid lilies, Bells of Ireland, mixed fern, and willow. The band Ghost Town provided live country and rock music for the reception, and a photo center was available for candid and posed shots of the wedding party and guests. The photo center was decorated with an old barn door and a vintage chair for taking pictures of guests. Enlarged photos of the bride and groom framed in reclaimed windows hung on the doors and another was propped on the take-away gift table. The wedding favors were bookmarks made with pressed flowers from the late Mr. Wallace’s funeral. Becky Corkern made the crosses that sat next to a “wish tree” where guests could write a wish for the bride and groom. The newlyweds departed from the reception amidst a fireworks display in his memory The bride graduated from Brookhaven High School and Copiah Lincoln Community College Nursing School. She is employed with Southwest Regional Medical Center in McComb. The groom is a graduate of Brookhaven High School and attended Copiah Lincoln Community College. He is employed with Carr’s Acoustics in Jackson. Following a honeymoon to Puerto Rico, the couple resides in Brookhaven.

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Welch and Causey Wedding November 3, 2012 | Summit, Mississippi | Randomshots Photography

rianna Welch and Matthew Causey were married on November 3, 2012, at New Heights Baptist Church in Summit, Mississippi. The Reverend Ricky Kennedy officiated at the formal candlelight ceremony. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William B. Welch and the groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Causey, all of McComb, Mississippi. Given in marriage by her father, the bride wore an Allure Couture gown of all-over ivory lace adorned with rhinestones, crystals, and pearls. The sheer, beaded straps dipped into a sweetheart neckline and formed a plunging V-back. A rhinestone-encrusted belt accented the waistline of the mermaid silhouette gown. The matching ivory sheer illusion, fingertip veil was also trimmed with rhinestones. A mixture of white roses, gerbera daisies, hydrangeas, and carnations, the bride’s bouquet was tied with her greatgrandmother’s floral print handkerchief and pinned with her grandmother’s cameo pin. Blaisha McKenzie Gorman served as matron of honor. Bridesmaids were Ami Collins Penick, Nicole Felder Wicker, Ann-Clark Price, Sara Chandler Wells, and Cheri Rebecca Causey. They wore eggplant colored gowns with a one-shoulder pleated satin bodice. The skirts were of flowing crepe accented with a crystal flower at the waistline. They carried bouquets of mixed fall colors—various shades of purples, golds, oranges, greens, and reds in roses, lilies, sunflowers, gerberas daisies, and calla lilies.

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Flower girls were Cameron and Fallon Humphries, cousins of the bride. They wore ivory tea-length chiffon dresses, also accented with pearls and rhinestones, and carried matching baskets. Ring bearer was Brent Fleming, another cousin of the bride. He carried an ivory satin pillow to match the flower girls’ baskets. John Paul McCarty served as best man. The groomsmen were Ben Causey, Jason Gault, Dean Harrod, Tommy Killingsworth, and Barry Welch. Ushers were Mitchell Young and James Harrod. Ceremony director was Lynn McInnis. The church was elegantly decorated with large palms and ferns; black wrought-iron candelabras that held over 100 candles; and black wrought-iron columns topped with large floral arrangements of the mixed, colorful fall flowers and curly willow branches. The pew markers were wrought-iron, standing hurricane globes tied with eggplant satin sashes and greenery. Guests and the bridal party entered the sanctuary to a selection of tunes softly played by pianist Phyllis Wells and cellist Dragos Felipe. Jonathan May sang the Matthew West wedding song “When I say I do.” The groom’s father, Reverend Jerry Causey, read the scripture and led the prayer for the lighting of the unity candle. Following the ceremony, a reception was held at Percy Quin State Park Convention Center. The reception decor followed the same elegant theme of the wedding with tables topped with eggplant-colored linens featuring tall cylinders of the various rich-colored fall flowers and curly willow. Each arrangement was set on a mirror surrounded by tea lights that reflected the ceiling, which was classically draped with sheer fabric and thousands of white lights. Music provided by Sound Odyssey of Hattiesburg, Mississippi, was enjoyed by all, and guests were treated to a large buffet of delicious foods highlighted by an elaborate fruit and cheese display. I’m Stuffed Catering from McComb was the event caterer, and Patricia Fleming was the reception director. The cake room featured both the bride’s and groom’s cakes and a champagne fountain. The wedding cake was a four-tiered confection of white chocolate tiers mixed with Italian cream cheese tiers. Its ivory-colored, stamped fondant was sprinkled with shimmer dust, topped with Bluffs & Bayous { January 2013 { Page 61

hand-made gum-paste flowers, and adorned with a ‘C.’ The groom’s cake was a twotiered chocolate cake decorated with a guitar to symbolize the groom’s musical talent. It sat atop a custom-made wooden stand decorated with musical notes. His first guitar was displayed for the guests to sign. Both cakes were made by Jennifer Smith of Brookhaven, Mississippi. A custommade portrait of the bride hung above the fireplace. As the reception concluded, the newlyweds departed under a shower of sparklers and left in the bride’s father’s vintage Corvette. On the eve of the wedding, the bride was honored with a brunch that was held at Fernwood Country Club and hosted by the bride’s life-long friends and their mothers, Ann-Clark Price, Teresa Price, Blaisha McKenzie Gorman, Carla McKenzie, Ami Collins Penick, and Debbie Collins. Later, a rehearsal dinner was hosted by the groom’s parents at the Caboose restaurant in downtown McComb. After a honeymoon at Sandals in the Bahamas, the couple is now at home in McComb. Special thanks go to Shawn Johnson at Village Florist in Summit, Mississippi, for the floral designs and to Carla McKenzie and Mandie Marsalis at Randomshots Photography for the amazing photographs, which include portraits taken at Rosedown in St. Francisville, Louisiana, and photographs with the bride in her mother’s dress taken at Brentwood in McComb.

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Wisner and Calhoun Wedding April 28, 2012 | Natchez, Mississippi | Brandon O’Neal Photography

arah Catherine Wisner and Curtis Zackary Calhoun were married on April 28, 2012, at the historic First Presbyterian Church in downtown Natchez, Mississippi, with Reverend Noelle Read officiating. Parents of the bride are Carla Jenkins and Glenn and Mandy Wisner, all of Natchez, Mississippi. Parents of the groom are Jesse and Susan Calhoun of Natchitoches, Louisiana. The bride, given in marriage by her father, wore a full bodice, floorlength, ivory lace gown with a crystal accent belt. She placed a silk flower in her hair for her “something borrowed” and her great grandmother’s diamond watch on her wrist for her “something old.” She carried a bouquet of assorted purple and lime flowers. Serving as the bride’s attendants were Emily Stevens, maid of honor, of New Orleans, Louisiana; Brittany Laird of Baton Rouge, Louisiana; Elizabeth Lindstedt Wisner of Metairie, Louisiana; Mary Beth Aubic of New Orleans, Louisiana; Caroline Edwards Hinson of Jackson, Mississippi; Whitney Mims Dollar of Natchez; Mattie Geoghegan of Jackson, Mississippi; and Ally Walker of Starkville, Mississippi. Honorary bridesmaids were Lauren Lucas, Kayla Wisner, Haley Freeman, Davis Beard, and Madeline Beard, all of Natchez, Mississippi. The bridesmaids wore satin eggplant-hued, off-the-shoulder, fitted knee-length dresses and carried bouquets of assorted cream and lime flowers. The honorary bridesmaids wore black knee-length dresses and carried a single white rose down the aisle. The groom’s attendants were Bret Beard, best man, of Natchez; the late Will Duncan of Monterey, Louisiana; Murphy Hinson of Jackson, Mississippi; Joseph Davis of Jonesville, Louisiana; Preston Hicks of Lafayette, Louisiana; and Jordan Farmer, Rodney Daggett, Brock Vines,

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and Chris Rasco, all of Natchez. The ushers were Daniel Wisner of Metairie, Louisiana; Nick Calhoun of Natchitoches, Louisiana; Connor Klotz of Mansfield, Texas; Charlie Mascagni of Baton Rouge, Louisiana; and Jamie Holloway of Greenwood, Mississippi. Following the ceremony, a reception was held at antebellum Hawthorne, home of the bride’s grandmother, and catered by Sissy Eidt of Natchez with the bride’s and groom’s cakes made by Linda McClure of Deseret Designs of Vidalia, Louisiana. The wedding and reception flowers were designed by Pam Harriss of Natchez, and the Will Wesley Band of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, provided the entertainment during the reception. Photographer Brandon O’Neal of Pineville, Louisiana, captured every memorable moment of the bride and groom’s journey from their engagement to their “I do’s.” Having returned from their honeymoon in Jamaica, the couple now resides in Vidalia, Louisiana.

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Keller and Godfrey Wedding October 6, 2012 | Natchez, Mississippi | Haley Bale Photography

allie Keller and James Kolby Godfrey were married October 6, 2012, at the home of Dianne and Kent Kirby in Natchez, Mississippi. The bride is the daughter of Chareleane Keller of Vidalia, Louisiana, and Craig Keller of Lutcher, Louisiana. She is the granddaughter of Ray Keller of Lutcher and the late Joyce Keller of Lutcher, and Jennie Bufkin and Harold Gardner of Natchez. The groom is the son of Kim and Mark Godfrey of Natchez, and the grandson of Ann and Noel Godfrey of Sallis, Misssissippi, and Gloria Boozer and H. L. Cummins of Carthage, Mississippi. Both parents escorted the bride down the aisle to the ceremony site, a gazebo built by her uncle Kent Kirby and cousin Trey Isbell. She carried a beautiful flower bouquet fashioned by The Flower Station. Her wedding gown was accented by a handmade bird cage veil, teal blue shoes, and her auntâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pearls. The brideâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s veil was handmade by Milli Wagoner, using blue and white netting from an antique veil, as well as peacock feathers.

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The bride’s attendants included Meagan Watson of Vidalia; Ali Roussel of Lutcher; Kristen Caldwell of Vidalia; and Mary Carson Johnson of McKinney, Texas. The groom’s attendants were Mark Godfrey, Michael Pace, and Patrick Blanchard, all of Natchez, and Blaine Mista of Clinton, Mississippi. Following the ceremony, the bridal party and guests strolled to the wedding reception where birdcages and lighted lanterns filled the night air, and the elegant bride’s cake awaited its traditional cutting before sharing its six different layers decorated with butter cream roses. The newlyweds celebrated their first dance to the strains and lyrics of “Crazy Love” by Van Morrison, performed by Ben Lewis. Thereafter, family, bridal party, and guests joined them as all enjoyed an entertaining evening in celebration of the nuptial event.

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THE social SCENE | Natchez, MS | NRMC Hosts Chamber After Hours

NRMC Hosts Chamber After Hours Natchez Regional Medical Center in Natchez, Mississippi, recently hosted a Chamber After Hours at the Doctorsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Pavilion to introduce the newest members of their medical and professional staff. They include Dr. Karl Hubbard, Orthopedist; Dr. Mary Gardner, Anesthesiologist; Dr. Dan McCallum, Orthopedist; Dr. Ellis Salloum, General and Vascular Surgeon; and Angie Waller, Certified Family Nurse Practitioner.

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Deanne Tanksley and Calvin Butler Linda Skipper and Dr. Benita Cushingberry-Turner Dr. Dan and Cherish McCallum Amy Campbell and Dr. Ruth Nichols Dr. Beverly Love, Suzanne Steckler, Kay Ketchings, Dr. LaToya Walker, and Donny Holloway Amy Campbell, Angela Yates, and Sarah Smith Lamont Rowe, Jennifer Rowe, and Brandon Rowe

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NRMC Hosts Chamber After Hours | Natchez, MS | THE social SCENE

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Donny Holloway and Brenda Rasco Angie Waller and Dr. Benita CushingberryTurner Lauren Middleton, Chuck Caldwell, Pat Biglane, and Eric Beidenharn Teresa Godbold, Julie Floyd, and Dusti Stowers Laurie PerĂŠ, Sarah Smith, Ashley Junkin, and Dr. Kathryn Nutter Barbara Willis, Bill Heburn, and Eric Robinson Angie Waller, Johnny Rodriguez, and Agnes Holloway Becky Guedon, Krys Freeman, Angie Waller, Angela Yates, and Becky George

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THE social SCENE | Natchez, MS | NRMC Hosts Chamber After Hours

16 Doug Charbonneau, Regina Charbonneau, Frances Cothren, and Claire Cothren

17 Kay Ketchings and Todd Gartner

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Christmas in Natchez | Natchez, MS | THE social SCENE

Christmas in Natchez Beverly Britt recently took her grandchildren on a fun â&#x20AC;&#x153;Girls Weekendâ&#x20AC;? in Natchez, Mississippi. The group, all from Brookhaven, Mississippi, enjoyed touring homes and historic sites, taking a carriage ride around town, and ice skating on the bluff!

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Adyson Zimmerman ice skating in downtown Natchez Adyson Zimmerman, Paige Zimmerman, Beverly Britt, and Parker Ann Ainsworth enjoying a carriage ride Paige Zimmerman, Parker Ann Ainsworth, and Adyson Zimmerman on the Natchez Bluffs Trails Paige Zimmerman, Adyson Zimmerman, and Parker Ann Ainsworth at The Towers. Paige Zimmerman and Parker Ann Ainsworth at the Eola Hotel

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THE social SCENE | Brookhaven, MS | Celebrating Oktoberfest

Celebrating Oktoberfest Oktoberfest was celebrated at the home of Bill Perkins in Brookhaven, Mississippi. This year marked a 25-year tradition of celebrating with friends and enjoying brats, sauerkraut, and brews. Photographs by Bill Perkins

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Jackie Arnold and Rhonda Smith Bill Perkins, Ann Houston Cupit, and Carl Craig Joe Cox and Bill Perkins Bill Perkins with Sue and Larue Baker Dr. Blaine and Amber Britt with Frank Perkins Larue Byrde and Jackie Arnold Josh and Isabel Reed Jay Perkins, Rhonda Freshwater, and Kelly Perkins Jeff Partman, Lisa Strictland, and Bill Guess

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Celebrating Oktoberfest | Brookhaven, MS | THE social SCENE

10 Joe Cox, Don Perkins, and Tommy Fitzpatrick 11 Mike and Cheryl Pigott with Bill Perkins 12 Cheryl and Mike Pigott, Sarah Marshall Perkins, and Lori and Frank Perkins

13 Lori and Frank Perkins 14 Rhonda Smith and Joe Cox

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THE social SCENE | Vicksburg, MS | Vicksburg JA Fall Party

Vicksburg JA Fall Party The Fall Party of the Junior Auxiliary of Vicksburg, Mississippi, was held on October 18, 2012, at the home of Fred and Kay Farrell. During the Fall Party, active and life members welcomed the incoming provisional class for the 2012-2013 year. This provisional group has shown interest in the Junior Auxiliary of Vicksburg and will be trained for six months as well as attend Chapter meetings and participate in JA projects to determine if they wish to volunteer their time to their community through this organization for the next five years.

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6 7

Ann Roberson and Kay Farrell Cisi Mathews and Lori Burke Heather Kealhofer and Alainna O’Bannon Mary Katherine Ellis and Haley Bell Front—Amy Rainer, Bridgett Hunt, Kim Stribling, Lindsay Gilliland, and Holly Porter; back—Cathy Ann Goss, Janet Rantisi, Lindsey Mixon, Margie Heltzel, Melissa Smithhart, Jill Grogan, and Casey Stokes Christin Matthews, Stacey Lambiotte, Sarah Nasif, Cisi Mathews, and Miki Ginn Lacey Lee, Heather Kealhofer, Whitney Simmons, and Laura Newman

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Vicksburg JA Fall Party | Vicksburg, MS | THE social SCENE

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Ashley Smith, Laura Newman, and Laurie Prescott Katie Feibelman and Brooke Southerland Jennifer Grey, Leslie Sadler, and Katie Ferrell Becky Jabour and Lauren Coulon Martha Day, Betty Ann Carr, and Carol Beulow Ashley Smith, Gareth Lampkin, and Lori Burke Melissa Smithhart, Casey Stokes, Lindsey Gilliland, and Janet Rantisi Jean Blue, Tammy Boolos, Stacey Teller, and Janice Waring Anne Cole, Marianne Jones, and Debbie Haworth

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

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Krewe of Phoenix Announcement Party | Natchez, MS | THE social SCENE

Krewe of Phoenix Announcement Party On October 11, 2012, the Natchez Mardi Gras Krewe of Phoenix in Natchez, Mississippi, held their Royal Announcement Party at Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;evereaux, the home of Courtney and Jenna Aldridge. The 2013 Krewe of Phoenix Royalty was announced and presented to the attending members and their guests.

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Beth DeAngelis and Sherri LeMay Mary Ruth Caldwell and Sherry Bartlett Martha Currie and Sherrill Byrd Ronnie Harris and John Wilkinson Sherry Bearden and Tim Sessions Jason Dauphin and Beth DeAngelis April Hand, LaShon Brown, Bob Pollard, and Jenna Aldridge Phyllis Lee-Ray, Gloria Neames, and Scott and Robin Christian

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THE social SCENE | Natchez, MS | Krewe of Phoenix Announcement Party

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Mary Lessley, Darla Wilkinson, and Kaye Harris Lacey Foster and Marcus Mathis Shelton Hand and Sherry Bartlett Stanley Cooper and Sherri LeMay Kayce Smith and Wyatt Craig Teri Roddy with Ginger and Tom Schwager Pam Manasco, Donna Sessions, Tanna Davis, Shanna Pollard, Rene Cantu, and Alan Smith

16 Lindsey Geter, Courtney 17

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Maples, and Chelsea Chauvin Dr. Brad LeMay and Ryan Richardson

Krewe of Phoenix Announcement Party | Natchez, MS | THE social SCENE

18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25

Gloria Neames with Genny and Bradley Harrison Lauren LeMay and Darby Short Haley and Elliot Meng with Scott Adams Chandler and Lou Ann Jordan Debbie Gee, Deanne Tanksley, Darby Short, and Phyllis Lee-Ray Sarah Foley, Rachel Garber, Lisa Mullins, Rene Davis, and Whitney Roberts Pat and Gerold Delaune, Lynette and Buddy Tanner, Dennis Short, and Courtney and Jenna Aldridge Pam Wood, Johnny Hoggatt, and Darla Wilkinson

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THE social SCENE | Natchez, MS | Krewe of Phoenix Announcement Party

26 Pat Porter and Kay Jinkins 27 Walt and Jo Grayson 28 Martha Currie and Richard Hess 29 Pete and Rene Cantu 30 Dick Power, Kyle Greer, Donna Sessions, 31 32 33 26

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Elizabeth Power, and Jane Greer Britney Hall and Jeremy Diamond with Jennifer and Scott Slover Donna and Tim Sessions with Sherry and Chuck Bearden Stanley Cooper, Sherry Bearden, Chuck Bearden, and Molly Cooper

Krewe of Phoenix Announcement Party | Natchez, MS | THE social SCENE

34 Front—Beth DeAngelis, Jason Dauphin, Tim

35 36

Sessions, Sherry Bearden, Sherri LeMay, and Stanley Cooper; middle—Teri Roddy, Brad Yarbrough, Lacey Foster, and Marcus Mathis; back—Sherry Bartlett, Shelton Hand, Kayce Smith, and Wyatt Craig Stephanie Daly and Stacey Heflin Teri Roddy and Brad Yarbrough

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THE social SCENE | McComb, MS | McComb Junior Auxiliary Social

McComb Junior Auxiliary Social On October 25, 2012, to welcome new members, the McComb, Mississippi, Junior Auxiliary held a “new provisional social” along with a scavenger hunt to help build team skills. Current and provisional members got to know each other while working together for a common goal—just as they will throughout the year in helping with essentials and building self-sufficiency for the children in the community.

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Beckie Nieman, Nicole Boyd, Denise Owen, and Shelley Myrick Chastity Burnette, Dana Webb, Donice Magee, and Vicki Deere Catherine Sanders, Melanie Carruth, and Sarah Jones Kate Lott, Betsy Lindsey, Marla Hinckley, and Kelly Parker Kimberly Alford, Lisa Hughes, Stacey Tamor, and Cori Honea Sarah Jones

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Bluffs Bluffs && Bayous Bayous {{January January2013 2013{ { Page 85

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THE social SCENE | Jackson, MS | Miss America Mother-Daughter Tea

Miss America MotherDaughter Tea Mississippi Opera of Jackson, Mississippi, hosted a Mother-Daughter Tea in honor of Laura Kaeppeler, Miss America 2012, while she was visiting in Jackson on October 25. The tea was held at the River Hills Country Club where young girls with their mothers shared afternoon tea delicacies, met and had photographs taken with Kaeppeler, and enjoyed her performance and talk.

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Sherry Holland Rula, her granddaughter Kate Rula, and Miss America Laura Kaeppeler Maggie Koury and Tisha Koury Chalise Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Quinn, Ainsley Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Quinn, April Nall, Caroline Nall, and Cate Nall Eugenia Jones and her granddaughter Sophia Sabin Kaitlin and Katrina Myricks Elizabeth Mitchell, Buena Lee Huff, Callin Mitchell, Miss America Laura Kaeppeler, and Elizabeth Black Susan Goodwin; Marlane Dove, Opera Guild President; Ouida Holland; Betty Bivins; Miss America Laura Kaeppeler; Marci Bowen; and Tippy Garner, Administrative Director of the Mississippi Opera Association Megan West of WAPT; Grace Sturdivant, former Miss Tennessee; and her daughter Eleanor Sturdivant

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Miss America Mother-Daughter Tea | Jackson, MS | THE social SCENE

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Anna Margaret Hooker, Kimberly Hooker, Shanna Lumpkin, Gentry Claire Lumpkin, Stella Allen, Lucy Allen, Jennifer Allen, and Nora Werne Ashley Mason, Bettye Mason, Alison Mason, and Mary Kathryn Mason

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JANUARY up

& coming! PREMIER EVENTS

January 24 St. Andrew’s Mission “Shaking it Up” at Shuffle to the Chefs McComb, Mississippi St. Andrew’s Mission in McComb, Mississippi, will be Shaking it Up at Shuffle this year on January 24, 2013. Shuffle to the Chefs is an iconic event that is in its sixth year and going strong. We’re still bringing in some of this region’s finest chefs to provide tastings of their creations, but we are shaking up the format a little this year. Instead of following tradition and shuffling among private homes, the entire event will be held under one roof at the McComb Mill in the Kramertown area of McComb. Parking will be on site; and guests will enjoy cutting-edge cuisine, live music, and libations, all to benefit the ministries of St. Andrew’s Mission. In addition to the professional chefs, we will also feature local talent who will compete with each other to win your taste buds. Tickets are $100.00 per person and are on sale now. You don’t want to miss the premier culinary event in Southwest Mississippi. For more information, call 601-684-4678 or visit www.standrewsmission.org. February 21 - 24 24th Annual Natchez Literary & Cinema Celebration Natchez, Mississippi “For more than 150 years, America’s Civil War has influenced not only military leaders and historians but also legions of creative people,” said Carolyn Vance Smith of Copiah-Lincoln Community College in Natchez, Mississippi. Smith and Copiah-Lincoln founded the award-winning Annual Natchez Literary & Cinema Celebration in 1990, and it now is sponsored by Copiah-Lincoln, Natchez National Historical Park, and Mississippi Department of Archives and History. This year’s theme is “Fiction, Fact, and Film: The Civil War’s Imprint on Southern Culture,” and headquarters for the event will be at the Natchez Convention Center in downtown Natchez. In addition to the excellent repertoire of speakers scheduled for the event, “the NLCC will explore physical references to the war in Natchez houses, churches, cemeteries, and other sites,” Smith said. Keynote speaker on the evening of February 21, presenting “1863: Year of Crucial Decisions.” is noted professor and author William Cooper of Louisiana State University. Cooper is author of Jefferson Davis and the Civil War Era and We Have the War Upon Us: The Onset of the Civil War, November 1860-April 1861. Music inspired by the Civil War will be performed February 22 after lunch at the Carriage House at Stanton Hall by re-enactors Jim Woodrick and Tim Waltman, both of Jackson, Miss. Music of the Civil War also is the theme of a concert February 23 at Zion Chapel A.M.E. Church, sponsored by the NLCC, Natchez Festival of Music, and University of Southern Mississippi. On February 24 NLCC personnel will offer tours of sites associated with the Civil War. The morning tour features two National Historic Landmark mansions, Longwood and Rosalie. Under construction when war broke out, Longwood has stood in the sartorial splendor of its elegant octagonal façade with its interior unfinished for over 150 years because northern laborers stopped their work in 1861 to return home. Rosalie, with its commanding view of the river, was Union headquarters during the war. The afternoon tour includes four sites: Forks of the Road; The Burn, a mansion inside the Union’s Fort McPherson; Natchez City Cemetery; and Natchez National Cemetery. An awards ceremony February 23 will honor three outstanding writers, two of whom will win the Richard Wright Literary Excellence Award. One is Jesmyn Ward, University of South Alabama professor and author of Where the Line Bleeds and Salvage the Bones, which won the 2011 National Book Award. Most of the conference is free of charge. Ticketed events are the luncheon at the Carriage House on February 22 ($25); the reception at Natchez Museum of African American History and Culture ($10); a benefit reception/supper at Magnolia Vale on February 23 ($135, with $100 tax-deductible); a concert on February 23 ($10); the morning tour of two mansions February 24 ($20); and the guided afternoon tour February 24 ($25). Up to 2.6 Continuing Education Units are available by emailing Beth.Richard@colin.edu or calling 601-446-1103. Information about the NLCC and tickets are available by visiting www.colin.edu/nlcc, emailing NLCC@colin.edu or calling 601-446-1289 or toll-free 866-296-NLCC (6522). Page 90 { January 2013 { Bluffs & Bayous

up & coming! JANUARY Through January 7 “Our Lives, Our Stories, America’s Greatest Generation” West Baton Rouge Museum Port Allen, MS 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 Through January 13 Artists by Artists Mississippi Museum of Art Jackson, MS 380 South Lamar Street Prices vary. 601-960-1515 www.msmuseumart.org Through February 23 Richard W. Dempsey (1909 - 1987) Recollections: A Forty Year Retrospective Luz-Maria Lopez: Mayan Creation Stories Clementine Hunter: Memories in the Clementine Café? Alexandria Museum of Art Alexandria, LA 933 Second Street 318-443-3458 www.themuseum.org January 2 Westside Story Baton Rouge River Center Baton Rouge, LA 275 South River Road 7:30 p.m. 225-389-4940 / 225-389-3030 www.brrivercenter.com www.louisianatravel.com

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JANUARY up

& coming!

January 2 & 4 Hoot and Holler Day Camp Mississippi Museum of Art Jackson, MS 380 South Lamar Street 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. 5 - 7 years $45 per child / pre-registration required 601-960-1515 www.msmusuemart.org January 4 Heritage Music Series Presents Sam Joyner Vicksburg, MS 4116 Washington Street 8:00 p.m. - 12:00 a.m. 601-638-1000 / 866-667-3386 shirleywaring@vicksburgheritage.com www.ameristar.com/vicksburg www.visitvicksburg.com January 5 2013 Mississippi Blues Marathon & Half Marathon Jackson, MS John Noblin / 601-624-7882 registration@msbluesmarathon.com info@msbluesmarathon.com www.visitjackson.com January 5 & 7 “The West Coast Swing” Dance Lessons Southern Cultural Heritage Foundation Vicksburg, MS 1302 Adams Street $10 / 5:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. 601-631-2997 info@southernculture.org www.southernculture.org January 8 Jay’s Winter Soup Workshop Southern Culture Heritage Foundation Vicksburg, MS 1302 Adams Street 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. $30 SCHF members / $35 Non-members Reservations required 601-631-2997 info@southernculture.org www.visitvicksburg.com

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up & coming! JANUARY January 8 Music in the City Mississippi Museum of Art, Trustmark Grand Hall Jackson, MS 380 South Lamar Street 5:15 p.m. / Hors dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;oeuvres & cash bar 5:45 / Program Free / Donations welcome 601-960-1515 msmuseumart.org January 11 Lonnie George & Flasche Band Concert Heritage Music Series Vicksburg, MS 4116 Washington Street 8:00 p.m. - 12:00 a.m. 601-638-1000 / 866-667-3386 shirleywaring@vicksburgheritage.com www.visitvicksburg.com www.ameristar.com/vicksburg January 12 13th Annual Chili Cook-off Houma, LA 121 Moffet Road 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. 985-851-6977 www.louisianatravel.com January 12 5th Annual Chill in the Hills Downtown Vicksburg Vicksburg, MS Late registration / 7:00 a.m. $20 / 10K Run & 5K Walk; $10 / 1 mi. fun run 10K / 8:30 a.m.; 5K / 8:35 a.m. Race packet pick up / 5:00 - 8:00 p.m. 601-634-4527 www.gracechristiancounselincenter.com/ Fundraiser.html www.visitvicksburg.com www.downtownvicksburg.org January 12 Hollywood Comes to Natchez Civil War Film Series: Freedom Road Natchez Visitors Center Natchez, MS 640 South Canal Street 4:00 p.m. / Free 601-446-1208 / 866-296-NLCC (6522) NLCC@colin.edu www.visitnatchez.org www.colin.edu/nlcc/ Bluffs & Bayous { January 2013 { Page 93

JANUARY up

& coming!

January 12 Artist Reception with James Williams Second Saturday / ArtsNatchez Natchez, MS 425 Main Street 6:00 p.m.- 8:00 p.m. 601-442-0043 www.artsnatchez.com January 12 Second Saturday Downtown Natchez Natchez, MS 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Yvonne Murray / 601-238-8325 murrayy@bellsouth.net January 13 Ballroom Dance Lessons by James Frechette Southern Culture Heritage Center Vicksburg, MS 1302 Adams Street 5:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. 601-631-2997 info@southernculture.org www.southernculture.org www.visitvicksburg.com January 14 Opera Underground Underground 119 Jackson, MS 119 South President Street 7:30 p.m. / $20 601-960-2300 www.msopera.org www.visitjackson.com January 15 “Historic & Sustainable Architecture” Millsaps Art and Lecture Series Millsaps College Jackson, MS 1701 North State Street 7:00 p.m. / $10 601-974-1130 www.visitnatchez.com

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up & coming! JANUARY January 16 Vicksburg-Warren School District Reading Fair Vicksburg Convention Center Vicksburg, MS 1600 Mulberry Street 866-822-6338 / 601-630-2929 www.vicksburgevents.com www.visitvicksburg.com January 17 River Kids Art Program Spring Semester Southern Culture Heritage Foundation Vicksburg, MS 1302 Adams Street Free / 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. 601-631-2997 info@southernculture.org www.southernculture.org January 18 Look and Learn with Hoot Mississippi Museum of Art Jackson, MS 380 South Lamar Street 10:30 a.m. 601-960-1515 msmusuemart.org

January 18 Stevie J Ameristar Bottleneck Blues Bar Vicksburg, MS 4116 South Washington Street 8:00 p.m. - 12:00 a.m. 601-638-1000 / 866-667-3386 shirleywaring@vicksburghetiage.com www.ameristar.com/vicksburg Bluffs & Bayous { January 2013 { Page 95

JANUARY up

& coming!

January 18 B. B. King Thalia Mara Hall Jackson, MS 255 East Pascagoula Street 7:30 p.m. $35 / Ticketmaster www.visitjackson.com January 18 - 20 Louisiana Marathon Baton Rouge, LA 1051 North 3rd Street 888-524-9861 www.louisianatravel.com www.thelouisianatravel.com

January 20 9th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade Historic Washington Street Vicksburg, MS 2:00 p.m. Sylvester Walker / 601-678-8263 601-634-4527 Applications / 1108 Farmer Street or fax 601-636-4757 www.downtownvicksburg.com www.visitvicksburg.com January 21 Miss Vicksburg Pageant & Miss Riverbend Pageant Vicksburg City Auditorium Vicksburg, MS 901 Monroe Street $8 / Admission; $5 / 4-12 yrs.; Free / 3 & younger 601-630-2929 / 866-822-6338 www.vicksburgevents.com www.visitvicksburg.com January 22 Lecture & Book Signing by Kelly Kelby Ouchley Southern Heritage Culture Foundation Vicksburg, MS 1302 Adams Street 601-631-2997 info@southernculture.org www.visitvicksburg.com

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January 23 Art in Mind Mississippi Museum of Art Jackson, MS 380 South Lamar Street 10:00 a.m. - 11:45 a.m. 601-960-1515 msmusuemart.org January 23 - 27 The Cherry Orchard Natchez Little Theatre Natchez, MS 319 Linton Avenue Wed. / 7:00 p.m.; Thurs., Fri., & Sat. / 7:30 p.m. Sun. / 2:00 p.m. Wed. / $10; all other days / $15 601-442-2233 natchez@bellsouth.net www.natchezlittletheatre.org www.visitnatchez.org January 25 Bluesaholics Ameristar Bottleneck Blues Bar Vicksburg, MS 4116 South Washington Street 8:00 p.m. - 12:00 a.m. 601-638-1000 / 866-667-3386 shirleywaring@vicksburgheritage.com www.ameristar.com/vicksburg www.visitvicksburg.com

up & coming! JANUARY

January 25 Clifford the Big Red Dog Live Vicksburg Convention Center Vicksburg, MS 1600 Mulberry Street 601-630-2929 / 866-822-6338 www.vicksburgevents.com www.visitvicksburg.com

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JANUARY up

& coming!

January 25 Chris Gill & the Sole Shakers Ameristar Bottleneck Blues Bar Vicksburg, MS 4116 South Washington Street 8:00 p.m. - 12:00 a.m. 601-638-1000 / 866-667-3386 shirleywaring@vicksburgheritage.com www.ameristar.com/vicksburg www.visitvicksburg.com January 25 - 27 Steel Magnolias Westside Theatre Foundation Vicksburg, MS 801 Clay Street Fri. & Sat. / 7:30 p.m.; Sun. / 2:00 p.m. Adults / $12; $10 / Senior Citizens $7 / Students; $5 / 12 yrs. & younger 601-636-0471 / 601-618-9349 www.vicksburgtheatreguild.com www.visitvicksburg.com January 25 - 27 & February 1 & 2 Smoke on the Mountain Vicksburg Theatre Guild Vicksburg, MS 101 Iowa Boulevard Fri. & Sat. / 7:30 p.m.; Sun. / 2:00 p.m. Tickets vary. 601-636-0471 www.vicksburgtheatreguild.com January 26 4th Annual Chili for Children Cook-off Lady Luck Casino Vicksburg, MS 1380 Warrenton Road 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Free; Sampling Cup / $5 601-636-2340 / 601-636-7575 / 800-503-3777 www.rainbowcasino.com www.visitvicksburg.com January 26 Maverick Stampede Germantown High School Madison, MS 5K Run/Walk / 10K Run / 1-mile Fun Run Kiddie Gallop / ghs.5k10k@yahoo.com www.ghsmavs.com/stampede

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up & coming! JANUARY January 27 Classical Guitarist Jon DeChiaro St. Mary Basilica Natchez, MS 107 North Union Street Free / 3:00 p.m. Ruth McWilliams / 601-445-5616 ruthmcw@cableone.net www.visitnatchez.org giovannidechario.net

January 28 - 29 Blue Man Group Jackson, MS 601-981-1847 info@kesslerbroadway.com kesslerbroadway.com www.visitjackson.com January 30 Susan Puckett Book Signing Southern Culture Heritage Foundation Vicksburg, MS 1302 Adams Street 6:00 p.m. 601-631-2997 info@southernculture.org www.southernculture.org www.visitvicksburg.com January 31 Annual Black & White Banquet VWC Chamber of Commerce Vicksburg Convention Center Vicksburg, MS 1600 Mulberry Street 601-636-1012 / 601-630-2929 / 866-822-6338 www.vicksburgchamber.org www.vicksburgevents.com www.visitvicksburg.com

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JANUARY up

& coming!

February 5 Cooking for Couples Workshop Southern Culture Heritage Foundation Vicksburg, MS 1302 Adams Street $50 / Members; $55 / Non-members 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. info@southernculture.org www.southernculture.org February 14 Mississippi Opera’s Valentine’s Celebration Christ United Methodist Church Jackson, MS 6000 Old Canton Road 601-960-2300 www.msopera.org / info@msopera.org

2013 Bridal Listings January 6 Spring 2013 Bridal Show Benedict’s Plantation Mandeville, LA 1:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. Brian Ebel / 985-626-4557 benedticsplantation@gmail.com www.theweddingmarket.com January 6 Le Parfait Jour ~ The Perfect Day Lake Charles Civic Center Lake Charles, LA 900 Lakeshore Drive / $5 Christi / 337-224-0700 Billie / 337-652-4101 christi_wws@att.net www.theweddingmarket.com January 13 The Premier Bridal Show Jackson Convention Center Jackson, MS 105 Pascagoula Street 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. 601-957-1050 premierbridems.com

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up & coming! JANUARY January 13 MS Bridal Show & Expo MS Trade Mart Jackson, MS 1200 Mississippi Street 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. 601-988-1142 info@msbridalshowandexpo.com January 20 The Premier Bridal Show of North Mississippi Bancorp South Conference Center Tupelo, MS 387 East Main Street 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. 601-957-1050 premierbridems.com January 27 Southwest Bridal Expo Former McComb Mill Building McComb, MS 1:00 p.m. - 4 p.m. Debbie / 601-810-2026 January 27 The Premier Bridal Show of the Gulf Coast MS Coast Coliseum and Convention Center Biloxi, MS 2350 Beach Boulevard 1:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. 601-957-1050 premierbridems.com

January 27 Memphis Pink Bridal Show Hilton Memphis Hotel Memphis, TN 939 Ridge Lake Boulevard Tickets available online or at the door 12:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. 865-531-3941 www.thepinkbride.com January 27 Baton Rouge Bridal Show Baton Rouge River Center Baton Rouge, LA $10 / Advance; $15 / Door 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. http://www.facebook.com/mjoyeventbr www.theweddingmarket.com January 27 Signature Bridal Show Baby & Child Expo Lake Charles Civic Center Lake Charles, LA 900 Lakeshore Drive / $5 12:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. Christi / 337-224-0700 Billie / 337-652-4101 christi_wws@att.net www.theweddingmarket.com

February 17 17th Annual Bridal Beginnings Show by the News-Star West Monroe Convention Center West Monroe, LA 901 Ridge Avenue Tickets / TBA 12:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. 318-362-0303 www.theweddingmarket.com February 17 Forest Grove Plantation Wedding Show Denham Springs, LA 1:00 p.m. Tickets / TBA 225-202-2175 DeShae Hughes / twoveliesevents@gmail. com www.theweddingmarket.com February 24 Brides & Basketball with the New Orleans Hornets New Orleans Arena New Orleans, LA 1501 Girod Street 2:30 p.m. $11 / First 200 registered $16 / Per ticket thereafter http://brisdesandbasketball.com www.theweddingmarket.com

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JANUARY up

& coming!

February 24 White Oak Plantation Bridal Show Baton Rouge, LA 1:00 p.m. Tickets / TBA Jordan Herbert Panepinto / 225-751-1882 www.theweddingmarket.com

February 24 16th Annual Bridal Show 2013 Lafayette Cajun Dome Lafayette, LA 444 Cajundome Boulevard 12:00 p.m. - 4 p.m. / $12 Robin Hebert / 337-769-8603 robinh@theind.com www.theweddingmarket.com

March 3 South Louisiana Bridal Show Houma-Terrebone Civic Center Houma, LA 346 Civic Center Boulevard Time & Tickets / TBA Sunburst Media / 985-448-0967 www.theweddingmarket.com March 10 Le Parfait Jour ~ The Perfect Day Hemingbough St. Francisville, LA Time / TBA; $5 Christi / 337-224-0700 Billie / 337-652-4101 christi_wws@att.net www.theweddingmarket.com

Be sure to confirm details of the events should changes have occurred since events were submitted.

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The Boy Who Saved My Life Booksigning Turning Pages Bookstore in Natchez, Mississippi, hosted a book signing for Earle Martin on October 11, 2012. Many friends and fans attended to visit with Mr. Martin and obtain signed copies of his book, The Boy Who Saved My Life.

1 2

Kristy and Earle Martin Barbara Culotta, Karen Stubbs, and Earle Martin

Newly Organized Natchez B & B Association The newly organized Natchez Bed and Breakfast Association of Natchez, Mississippi, met recently to elect the following officers for 2013: Christine Tims of Bisland House, President; Marcia McCullough of Marcia’s Cottages, Vice President; Rachel Garber of Brandon Hall, Secretary; and Jackie Wild of Magnolia Cottage, Treasurer. The organization aims to correlate its efforts with government agencies and other tourism groups to promote the B & B industry, local tourism, and the City of Natchez. In November, the organization participated in Veterans Day activities by offering discounts to veterans and their families that patronized its B & B establishments.

B&B Owners Front—Marcia McCullough, Nancy Reuther, Christine Tims, and Jeanette Feltus; back—Rachel Garber, Joe Stone, Esther Carpenter, Ron Fry, and Jackie Wild

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Legal Notes by Lucien C. “Sam” Gwin III

Law Along the Mississippi Is it truly free will?

Almost everyone has encountered a situation where a friend or family member has gotten up in years and wants to change his or her will, leaving everything to one child or one niece or nephew to the exclusion of all other children or nieces and nephews (or even, perhaps, brothers and sisters). Often times, the matter involves a situation where the particular person making out a will (called a testator) has been living with or has been cared for by the particular person to whom he or she wishes to bequeath the entire estate. The first substantial lawsuit that I became involved in had to do with an older gentleman in another county who had somewhat large landholdings with timber. When he signed his will at his lawyer’s office, he left his wife of over fifty years $1.00 and his four adult sons $1.00 each. He then left his entire estate to an adult grandson. I represented the widow and three of the four sons in a contest of the will. After two-and-a-half years of gutwrenching litigation and very hard feelings, the matter was settled just before trial.

I have seen several cases where a will was executed by an older person late in life, and he or she left the bulk of the estate in question to one family member and to the exclusion of all other family members. The issue becomes this: was such testator competent to make a will, or was that testator unduly influenced by the benefactor of the will? For purposes of this discussion, I will cover only the issue of testamentary capacity. Will contests in Mississippi are common although a will contest is very difficult to win under Mississippi Law. Our Mississippi Supreme Court has repeatedly held that a will is a sacred document and should not be easily overturned.

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However, there are cases where our courts and juries have held that a testator was not competent to make the will. In such cases, Courts looked to three factors in deciding whether such person had testamentary capacity. The law states: “The test of one’s capacity to execute a will ‘is the ability of the testator at the time to understand and appreciate the nature and effect of his act, the natural objects or persons to receive his bounty, and their relation to him and whether such testator is capable of determining what disposition he desires to make of his property.’” The most important factor in testing mental competency of a testator is that he or she has to be mentally sound “as of the date of the execution of the will.” Courts look at the testator’s state of mind and whether the testator was capable of making a will on that date. This is proven by the testimony of the witnesses to the will. Most wills are witnessed by two witnesses. It is the testimony of these two witnesses as well as the testimony of the attorney who prepared the will that vouches for the testator’s ability to understand and appreciate what he was doing on the date of the execution of the will and what property he was giving away, to whom, and for what purpose. As stated, the majority of wills are upheld in contest. Unless a contestant of a will is prepared to provide medical testimony

that the testator was delusional, mentally retarded at the time of the execution, or had some other ongoing mental disorder, then the Courts overwhelmingly are going to find for the will. There have even been cases where people have suffered from all forms of mental deficiencies, yet the evidence showed that on the day of execution, the witnesses proved that said testator was very lucid. Testimony of lucidity on the day of execution almost always wins the day. A doctorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s testimony can be crucial to the validity or invalidity of the will assuming the doctor checked the patient for competency within a short period of time of the execution. My Take: It is my belief that when a frail, older person with some mental infirmities or other substantial health issues executes a will leaving everything to one or two people to the exclusion of others that would have normally been included, then the will should be sharply scrutinized. In my next article, I will discuss undue influence. Be sure to email any questions you may have about Mississippi Law to sam.legalnotes@gmail.com.

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Southern Sampler by Alma M. Womack

Comforting Thoughts for 2013

f this is being read, then I reckon we survived the Mayan prediction of doom for December 21, 2012. Personally, I am tired of worrying about meteors striking the earth, and volcanoes erupting, and earthquakes splitting the earth and causing tidal waves that will wash away all coastal cities everywhere in the world. These things have happened before, and no one on earth can stop them; all you can do is deal with the aftermath if you happen to survive. If the Lord wants us all gone, well, start waving goodbye. I am having a hard time being optimistic about the future of the country; but, again, there’s not a whole lot that I can do about the present, much less the future. Knowing history as I do, I know that civilizations rise and fall; and sooner or later, another group comes in to fill the void. This has been human history for thousands of years; and it is not likely to change just because we are comfortable in our little bit of time in the early part of the twenty-first century. So, what to discuss in January of a new year when times are tough and people are discouraged and in despair? We still have so much to be thankful for that, perhaps, that thankfulness should be the focus of our thoughts. Right now, at the beginning of another 365-day journey around the sun, here is what I appreciate and celebrate in 2013. I am glad to live where I do, to have a garden, and to have a forest of fish and fowl and game that will keep us fed if necessary. Of course, the five dogs have to be kept out of the garden and Woodrow needs to be watched to keep him from harvesting the plants instead of the produce. I know how to watch for bugs and snails and other beasties who want my squash and cucumbers as much as we do, and maintenance of a garden is not rocket science. At night, when it is clear, the stars are still in their places up above; and shining out here in the country, they put on quite a show at night. Years ago, Jorie gave me a wonderful telescope to view the heavens, and I have enjoyed taking the telescope out to the deck to check out the moon and stars when special events get underway in the night sky. There’s nothing like a night of watching the wonders of the stars to make you feel that your little speck of a self and your little speck of a planet are not too important after all. Two quotes always come to mind when viewing the beauty of a moon-lit, starry night: “What is man, that Thou art mindful of him?” from the King James version of the Holy Bible, and my favorite quote of the ancients, “To consider the earth the only populated world in infinite space is as absurd as to assert that on a vast plain, only one stalk of grain will grow.” This is from Metrodorus of Chios, fourth century B.C. We live in an age when books are everywhere, all sizes, all prices, and easily available. This has not always been so, and I used to think that we were the luckiest civilization ever to have access to so much knowledge and entertainment any time that we wanted it. Now that computers of all descriptions are the norm, books aren’t quite as important to acquiring knowledge as they once were. But Page 106 { January 2013 { Bluffs & Bayous

the books are still here, and my collection has grown into a nice little library on its own. It would take me many years to re-read all the volumes that I have, so I will never lack for entertainment if the electric plugs are ever pulled. In January, farmers are always looking for a new crop year to begin and hoping that it will be better than the last one. There’s a lot of planning that has to be done before the first seed is planted and a lot of maintenance work once the crop is in. Weather, oil prices, Mother Nature, and the government are our greatest hindrances; but for some reason, we forget the miseries of the past year and are ready to try our luck one more time when the each new year rolls around. Woodrow still hasn’t talked Buster into getting a round bale picker for 2013; he’ll just have to be content to ride with Uncle Kenneth McClure when he starts picking in the fall. We may have another combine by the time this goes to print, and Woodrow is hoping that it will be a green one. He is just distrustful of red equipment ever since Al Guido’s red picker burned two years ago. Red combines are a little safer than red cotton pickers; so maybe it will be okay if we end up with another red combine, which the boy will check out from top to bottom before he gives his approval. Woodrow is only four but knows every piece of equipment on the place, what it is used for, and who is the best driver to use it. He will be a good manager someday. Woodrow, little Jay, Drew and Liza, are the four grandchildren that I love, adore, and am so thankful for. They all have a special place in my heart and are a marvelous reminder that the generations go on, that it will be their turn to carry the torch of civilization someday. They all have good parents who love them and are teaching them good manners and sound behavior so that they will know what to pass on when it’s their turn to be the parents of a new generation. Who knows, our NASA program may be returned to its former glory, and one of my great grandchildren may be able to explore the surface of another planet, one that I can only look at with my telescope. All my verbose rambling has a purpose and it is this: to know that life goes on, that good people will rise to the occasion, that we will continue to love our families and friends, and that the stars are just waiting for us to find some other ‘stalks of grain on that vast plain’ that is the universe. Comforting thoughts after all.

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