Bluffs & Bayous July 2012 by Bluffs & Bayous Magazine

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From Your Publisher . . .

uly—the month of our country’s birthday celebration, the month for hot weather, the month for indoor picnics, the month for water activities, the month to recognize the amazing artists and art organizations in our readership area. So many of our towns and cities have an art community where visual and performing arts are nurtured, explored, examined, and appreciated. More and more communities are recognizing the importance of art in our lives; for it traces how we live our lives and preserves this history in its music, art, and dance through the ensuing decades. Art, indeed, is the living history of our civilization. In Vicksburg, Mississippi, we recognize the Southern Cultural Heritage Foundation, established in 1994, that operates as a nonprofit, cultural arts center located on

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the former campus of St. Francis Xavier Academy and Convent. The Foundation’s intent is to provide for the Vicksburg community, an area of diverse cultural heritage, exposure to a wealth of artists who have honed their skills and talents and are eager to share these assets through educational programs. Elodie Pritchartt, a freelance writer and photographer, shares her story about Tommy Polk, a musician for most of his life. Born in Vidalia, Louisiana, Polk has, for the past four years, worked with Ferriday, Louisiana, Mayor Glenn McGlothin in developing the fertile music history of the town and restoring buildings that recognize this rich musical heritage. Artistic heritage also is recognized and enhanced through our area’s summer programs that expose young Thespians to theatre production as they participate in theatre workshops and cap their summer instruction with public performances. As part of Happening at The Haven in Brookhaven, Mississippi, such young actors will produce The Little Mermaid on July 19 and 20. Just completing their production, the TEEN group of Happening at The Haven performed Aladdin June 21 through 24. In our Premier Art Organizations and July Up and Coming section, we feature some of the arts programs in and around the Bluffs & Bayous reading area. While we could not possibly list all the groups, we tried to highlight some with notable programs and provide their contact information for you to inquire about classes, workshops, events, and performances throughout the year. The Mississippi Commission for Volunteer Service in coordination with the Office of the Governor and First Lady Deborah Bryant, Honorary Chair of the MCVS Board of Commissioners, announced this past spring the 2012 Governor’s Initiative for Volunteer Excellence (GIVE) Award winners. On April 16, 2012, all were toasted at an event held at the Mississippi Museum of Art. Since July is the Arts Issue of Bluffs & Bayous, we recognize Lillie Lovette

of Edwards, Mississippi, recipient of the Outstanding Achievement in the Arts and Humanities Award. Also this month, Patricia Taylor, a parttime resident of Natchez, Mississippi, composes jottings from her native England, emphasizing its connections to the USA; and contributor Jennie Guido visits Lake St. John’s Duck’s Nest II in Ferriday, Louisiana, in order to share with us ‘Something Scrumptious.’ Of course, our readers continue to anticipate and enjoy the enrichment and insight provided by the mirth and merriment of Ross McGehee’s and Alma Womack’s reflections—those in this issue do not disappoint! I conclude by reminding folks about the annual Fourth of July Flotilla celebration that will take place at Lake St. John on July 7. To catch all the excitement, be sure to find friends who have lake houses or take in the view and festivities from Spokane Resort—and dine out at Duck’s Nest II. We have so many opportunities to find respite from the heat of July and enrich our summer by enjoying all the ways the arts embrace our life along and beyond the Mississippi.

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

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

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

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

Elodie Pritchartt is a freelance writer and photographer. She is a native Natchezian and often writes about Natchez history and its characters.

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

Columnist Alma Womack lives on Smithland Plantation on Black River, south of Jonesville, Louisiana. In addition to her duties as maitresse des maison, she is the keeper of the lawn, the lane and the pecan orchard at Smithland. Jennie Guido is a graduate of Delta State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Arts and Master’s Degree in English Education. Having lived up Highway 61 in Cleveland, Mississippi, she recently has returned to Natchez, her hometown, to pursue her professional career.

A Mass Communications graduate of Louisiana State University, JoAnna Sproles of Brookhaven, Mississippi, has more than 15 years of experience in managing public relations and contributing articles to newspapers and magazines.

on the cover While exploring the musical career of Tommy Polk, Elodie Pritchartt, a freelance writer and photographer, captured this image of the 2012 Soul Survivors Festival held recently in Ferriday, Louisiana. See story on pages 44 to 46.

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 Cheryl Rinehart sales staff Jennifer Ratliff Cheryl Rinehart Donna Sessions JoAnna Sproles

Adam Blackwell

Jean Biglane

Van O’Gwin

Elise D. Parker

Jan Ratcliff

Cheryl Rinehart

Anita Schilling

Jennifer Ratliff

Donna Sessions

JoAnna Sproles

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

office

423 Main Street, Suite 7 | Natchez, MS 39120 601-442-6847 | fax 601-442-6842 info@bluffsbayous.com | editor@bluffsbayous.com sales@bluffsbayous.com www.bluffsbayous.com

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July 2012 FEATURES Tommy Polk: Building Dreams for a Song............................................. 44-46 Southern Cultural Heritage Foundation: Extending Artistic Excellence throughout the Community............................................ 50-51 Join the Fourth of July Flotilla: Celebrate Faith, Family & Freedom!......... 52-53 Brookhaven’s Drama Camp: An Encore of July Fun for Regional Students.............................................................................. 62-63 Lillie Lovette Receives Arts and Humanities Award................................... 82

FAVORITES All Outdoors

Tommy Polk: Building Dreams for a Song pages 44 - 46

Wild, Wooly, and Full of Fleas................................................................ 14-15

Events July Up & Coming! Premier Arts Organizations.................................... 72-73 July Up & Coming!.................................................................................. 74-80

From the Stacks A Saga of Track-racing Cyclists.................................................................... 10

In the Garden Growing Mint without Any Trouble........................................................... 25

Random Jottings Maldon Essex........................................................................................... 36-41

Something Scrumptious Duck’s Nest II, Spokane, Louisiana......................................................... 32-33

Southern Sampler

Southern Cultural Heritage Foundation: Extending Artistic Excellence throughout the Community pages 50 - 51

Sundry Reflections: Sofas, Crops, Turtles, and Patriotism..................... 70-71

THE social SCENE

Surprise Party for Matthew Rymer................................................................ 9 Birthday Party for Jack Johnson............................................................. 12-13 Patio and Garden Shower for DePrato and Phelps............................... 16-17 Reception for Centenarian Thelma Blackburn...................................... 20-24 Engagement Party for Lyons and Strickland......................................... 26-30 Birthday Party for Presley Carr............................................................... 34-35 Engagement Party Fetes Alwood and Edwards.................................... 54-59 Engagement Party for Edwards and Hinson......................................... 64-66 Class of 2002 Reunion............................................................................. 68-69 Trinity Park Inauguration............................................................................. 81

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Surprise Party for Matthew Rymer | Natchez, MS | THE social SCENE

Surprise Party for Matthew Rymer On May 14, 2012, Matthew Rymer of Natchez, Mississippi, thought he was going to his standard appointment for occupational therapy at Natchez Regional Medical Center. Instead, he was greeted in the hospital cafeteria with a resounding “Surprise and Happy 21st Birthday!” by his former Trinity High School classmates, coaches, teachers, and friends along with his family and Natchez Regional employees. Rymer was injured in a car wreck in December 2009 and since then has been undergoing therapy at Natchez Regional with occupational therapist Naydza Muhammad, who suggested the party for Rymer. “Matthew is a therapist’s dream patient,” she explained. “He is focused on being as independent as possible, and he has an amazing attitude and determination.” Through his therapy and hard work, Rymer is now able to sit up unassisted in his manual wheelchair, transfer himself in and out of a car unassisted, and dress and feed himself. He is attending classes at Co-Lin Community College in Natchez.

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Front—Kent King, Eric James, Matthew Rymer, and Clay Ketchings; back—Trevor Faust, Deacon Newman, Chaz Moroney, Deborah Rymer, Caitlyn O’Quinn, R. J. Fleming, Alyson Swilley, Cody Strickland, and Naydza Muhammad Deb Claflin, Kay Ketchings, Sherri LeMay, Walt Roddy, and Bill Heburn Matthew Rymer and Naydza Muhammad Caitlyn O’Quinn, Annette Moroney, and Robbie Lanehart Front—Matthew Rymer; back—Deborah Rymer, Harriet Robinson, Austin Rymer, Doreen Fos, and Katie Russ

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From the Stacks

review by Mary Emrick

A Saga of Track-racing Cyclists Gold by Chris Cleave

he 2012 Summer Olympics will begin Friday, July 27, in London. Chris Cleave’s novel Gold will release for sale in bookstores Tuesday, July 3, just in time for all interested in the summer games to become excited about the track cycle-racing events. At the Beijing Olympics, Great Britain did well in the cycling events, taking the gold in the women’s sprint and the women’s individual pursuit. Chris Cleave’s book of fiction will have you focused on the Great Britain cyclists in London, but you will see them differently. You will see them not as athletes in pursuit of gold but as individuals who are friends, lovers, enemies, and parents. People like you and me who face all the obstacles and the joys life has to offer. People who laugh,

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cry, disappoint, encourage, and survive it all as a unit. The novel Gold is focused on three Olympic athletes who have trained together from the age of nineteen. The book spans thirteen years of life with these athletes and the coach who chose them from a select group of athletes to compete on the Olympic level. It is about a little girl with leukemia who is obsessed with these “Star Wars” characters. The reader will learn innumerable details about training for and participating in track cycle racing. But do not think that the focus is just that. The book is about the bond that the five complex Cleave characters develop. You will be mesmerized by the interaction of the racers Zoe, Jack, and Kate; their coach, Tom; and the eight-yearold Sophie. Cleave has well developed

characters, causing your loyalties to jump among the four adults. The one character who steals your heart throughout, though, is Sophie. Gold is a book so tautly written that you will not want to put it down. Instead, the book will travel with you to your work breaks and on your vacations. You will find relief only when you turn the final page. Then you will be able to breathe easily. You will, however, continue to think about the young cyclists. What drives them, and what glues them permanently together? If you have read other Cleave books— Little Bee and Incendiary—you know that his plots cannot be described in length without giving away the secrets that keep you absorbed. You will just have to trust me when I tell you, “Gold is a book you will want to share with your friends. It is a book about lives we love, the secrets we keep, the love we share.” Chris Cleave was born in London and spent his early years in Cameroon. He studied experimental psychology at Balliol College, Oxford. His debut novel, Incendiary, won a 2006 Somerset Maugham Award, was short-listed for the 2006 Commonwealth Writers’ Prize, and is now a feature film. His second novel, Little Bee, is an international bestseller with over 2 million copies in print. He lives in London with his wife and three children.

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THE social SCENE | Natchez, MS | Birthday Party for Jack Johnson

Birthday Party for Jack Johnson Jack Johnsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 5th Birthday Party was held April 14, 2012. Jack is the son of Justin and Tamara Johnson of Natchez, Mississippi; and many family members and friends were on hand at the Johnson home to celebrate this special occasion. A petting zoo in the Johnsonsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; backyard was a big hit! Photographs courtesy of Vicki Eastland Photography

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Jack Johnson and his great grandfather David Stephens Lily Crum Jack Johnson Ella Grace and Sydney Heflin

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Annie Grace and Shirani Hickman Jack with his grandfather Bruce Kelly. Hite Brown Stella Barlow

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All Outdoors

by Ross McGehee

Wild, Wooly, and Full of Fleas

ran into my old friend Troy recently and during our brief visit asked him about Jerry Lee. “Jerry Lee don’t come around too much anymore,” he responded. “Guess he just didn’t feel like he fit in.” Given the history they had, it was probably a pine box that Jerry Lee didn’t want to fit in. Troy calls Jerry Lee his “used-to-be brother-in-law.” How that all came to be is another story; but even with “used-to-be” status, Jerry Lee tried to keep up with his extended in-laws. Troy said he was “bout half goofy to start with,” and maybe he was a little different, but that could have been the result of his upbringing. You see, he was from Alabama; and there was a better-than-even chance that he hadn’t fully evolved. Nonetheless, every time there was some hunting or fishing going on around the old home place,

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Jerry Lee was there, struggling to keep up or sometime just survive the experience! Troy’s family is one of those that doesn’t let making a living get in the way of their having a good time. There is a constant stream of critters to chase, grab, shoot, hook, net, fry, boil, or bake. When nothing is in legal season, there is a swimming hole in an old gravel pit or a sand bar on a river bank to occupy. When all recreational pursuits have been thwarted, they’ll stay around the house and bushhog the grass that’s grown up around the tractors that are awaiting repair in their front yards. The first time that Jerry Lee got exposure to his new in-laws was a invitation to coon hunt in the Amite River swamp on a cold January night. Rambling around in the dark with strangers is a pretty good way to break the ice, wouldn’t you say?

So six guys with dogs and lights struck out about nine p.m. With no moon, it was plenty dark; and the dogs struck a trail that crossed a deep tributary of the river. The dogs treed the coon two hundred yards across the creek, and six hunters had to find a way across in short order. The party split up, half going upstream and half going downstream, looking for a crossing. A suitable log was located, lying from bank to bank. All hunters were summoned and took turns holding their lights on the log while one by one each carefully walked the slick trunk. Jerry Lee took his turn and was halfway across when one of his new associates trained his spotlight into Jerry Lee’s face, instantly taking out his night vision. Then all the others turned their lights on to Jerry Lee instead of the log! It was nine feet down to the water, and the fall was well illuminated. The fire they built to warm Jerry Lee up did nothing to dry him out, so he had a pretty short night. It was early summer when Jerry Lee ventured back into the company of Troy’s clan. Bream on one of the family ponds were biting, and the whole tribe had assembled for an assault on the vicious fish. Everyone was armed with tackle and ice chests, the weather was gorgeous, and the kids were having a ball! About mid-afternoon, someone noticed that Jerry Lee was napping instead of fishing. A child commented, “He sure sleeps funny. Look how he’s shaking.” At some point, somebody in the group seemed to recall that Jerry Lee may or may not have mentioned something about diabetes once. Knowing that it was Sunday afternoon and the only hospital was a twenty-mile drive, various family members considered the situation and their comments ranged from, “Are they even open on Sunday?” to “I ain’t taking nobody, nowhere. The fish are biting!” Jerry got the medical attention he needed, but the in-laws weren’t much for high-maintenance people. Especially if it interfered with their fishing! The next time Jerry Lee tried fishing, he didn’t even make it to the pond! Troy’s family had some old pasture behind the big house where they used to keep goats.

They had lots of old roofing tin from a barn that a hurricane had flattened, so they laid the sheets out in long organized rows across the pasture. To get fishing bait, the kids would get on either side of a sheet of tin; the sheet would be lifted; and the kids would gather whatever crickets that hid beneath. It was lots of fun and a cheap way to provide bream bait. Jerry Lee wanted to join in and help; and, wouldn’t you know, the effort blew up in his face. Apparently a colony of yellow-jackets had set up housekeeping in the ground under some of the tin. The kids were all some distance away, dumping their crickets into the community cage, when Jerry Lee lifted a sheet alone and evidently stepped on the entrance to the nest. Miraculously, he only got stung once. The whole family was amazed that he didn’t even swell up where the yellow-jacket stung him! Then about five minutes later, Jerry Lee noticed that his eyes and ears itched and his tongue was swelling up. Luckily, someone in the group knew what anaphylactic shock was and once again got him to a medical facility. The next time Jerry Lee came into the yard, everybody kinda eased away. Troy’s bunch had gathered almost by accident after deer season. Nobody at their camp had thought anyone else would be there, so no one brought along any food. There was some cooking oil still in the fish cooker from who knows when, though. Hmmm. “Let’s cook some fish!” “But we don’t have any fish.” “Sure there’s a pond full right over there. All we need is the seine, and we can have a cookin!” Never mind that there were no French fries, hush puppy ingredients, onions, corn, nothing. Just some fish and they were still in the pond! There was, for sure, plenty to drink; and that probably had a lot to do with the decision-making process. For clarity, what they proposed was to take a 100-foot-long net, about six-feet tall, and drag it through a pond in winter to get supper. It sounds simple until you factor in the component of some person having to be in the water on either end of the net to hold it vertical so the fish don’t go under it. Ropes are tied to the net for pulling it across the pond, and the people pulling the ropes are high and dry on the bank. So, two volunteers are needed for the “easy part.” “You don’t have to pull. Just keep the pole straight. We’ll do the pulling!” Guess who volunteered? Yep. Jerry Lee was neck deep in 50-degree water before he knew it and doing real well to keep himself vertical,

let alone the pole! There seems to be a pattern where Jerry Lee is seduced into a situation that he ends up wet AND cold, or in need of immediate medical attention while everyone else is eating what got cooked in his absence. Anyway, Jerry Lee did end up on the couch for the next 48 hours with what looked like double-P pneumonia. Oh, and the fish had gone so deep that the seine could not reach them; so nobody ate fish. Given the questionable shelf life and use history of the oil, it’s just as well. What probably had a lot to do with Jerry Lee’s not coming around much anymore was an initiation that got a little out of hand. Jerry Lee had gotten himself a girlfriend and ended up setting a wedding date. The gang thought they’d show old Jerry Lee a good time and throw a bachelor party of sorts for him at the farm shop. Why waste time and money going off to New Orleans and just getting arrested for your trouble. Stay at the shop and cut up! They cooked a pig that one of the guys donated; somebody else brought the fixings; and ample refreshment was, of course, on hand. Everything went real well until one of the guests had what he thought was a brilliant idea. This particular guest

worked off-shore on a drilling rig. He thought it would be appropriate to initiate the groom in much the same way that rig hands used to be. Thank goodness there was no five-gallon bucket of pipe dope in the shop. Oh, but wait, there was a spray can of John Deere Green paint. Yeah, they did. That ought to be a real good place to stop. Probably what Jerry Lee thought, too. I never did find out what Jerry Lee was doing with himself after talking to Troy during our quick visit that day; and given the circumstances, I really couldn’t blame him for laying low. Troy and the boys don’t mean any harm, and they do like Jerry Lee even if he is “bout half-goofy.” Troy says he’s kinda like an old stray dog that wanders up and takes a liking to you. You can throw all the rocks you want at him, and he’ll trot off just out of range. Next thing you know, he’s back sleeping on the porch. Open the front door; and he’s off the porch in a flash, stopping just out of chunking range. I imagine Jerry Lee has found the spot where they can’t reach him! And different from the dog and the gang, he’s not wild, wooly, and full of fleas.

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THE social SCENE | Vidalia, LA | Patio and Garden Party for DePrato and Phelps

Patio and Garden Shower for DePrato and Phelps Friends and family of Debra DePrato and David Phelps of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, gathered to celebrate their engagement at a Patio and Garden Shower in the home of Mr. and Mrs. Derrell Reid of Vidalia, Louisiana, on the afternoon of May 12, 2012. Other hosts and hostesses included Mr. and Mrs. Jeff DePrato of Baton Rouge, Mr. and Mrs. Jay DePrato of Ferriday, Louisiana, Louise Peabody of Natchez, Mississippi, and Mr. and Mrs. Keith Primeaux of Baton Rouge.

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David Phelps and Debra DePrato Marjorie Vogt and Parnell Burns Melanie Kennedy and Jeanie Peabody Firmin and Dorothy Ulmer Phillip and Cindy Scurria Sheila and Richard Alwood Bill Burris, Jay DePrato, Parnell Burns, and Keith Primeaux Cole Primeaux, Debra DePrato, Jake DePrato, and David Phelps

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Patio and Garden Party for DePrato and Phelps | Vidalia, LA | THE social SCENE

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Jean Rabb, Katherine Galloway, and Marjorie Vogt Cheryl Reid, Susan Vigil, and Ben Green Karen Clifton, Debra DePrato, Katherine Galloway, Jean Rabb, Marjorie Vogt, and Lydia Wilson Keith and Stefany Primeaux, Jay DePrato, Mel and Derrell Reid, and Cori and Jeff DePrato Debra DePrato, Stefany Primeaux, Mel Reid, and Cori DePrato Ansell Reid, Betsy Miles, and Tom Vigil Stefany Primeaux, Katherine Galloway, Anna Ferguson, Jean Rabb, and Andy Peabody Marjorie Vogt, Pat Vogt, Parnell Burns, and Melanie Kennedy

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THE social SCENE | Vicksburg, MS | Reception for Centenarian Thelma Blackburn

Reception for Centenarian Thelma Blackburn Mrs. Thelma Blackburn, the matriarch of the large Blackburn family, was honored with a reception on May 20, 2012, to celebrate her 100-years’ birthday. The event was held at the home of her son and daughter in law, Mr. and Mrs. Brother Blackburn, of Vicksburg, Mississippi.

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Seated—Thelma Blackburn; standing— Mrs. Blackburn’s children: Dele York, Brother Blackburn, and Betty Kamman Kay Lee, Erin Ingram, and Lisa Ingram with Thelma Blackburn Ginny, Luke, and Bobby Abraham Dr. McCall and Thelma Blackburn Dale York (far right) with her son Mitt Blackburn and granddaughters Adele and Hannah Blackburn Dale York, Alberta Selmon, Lillie Selmon, Betty Kamman, and Thelma Blackburn Caroline and Nicole Kamman Melissa and Jeb Blackburn with their children Ali, Emmerson, Caton, and Collins Blackburn Jeane and Brother Blackburn

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Reception for Centenarian Thelma Blackburn | Vicksburg, MS | THE social SCENE

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Aaralyn Nicholls and Hannah York Jane Batchelor and Anne Rutland Lee Roy Robinson, Charles and Doris Pollard, Charlie Pollard, and Sharlot Robinson Reed, Judy, Anne Elizabeth, Talbot, Booth, and Mark Buys

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THE social SCENE | Vicksburg, MS | Reception for Centenarian Thelma Blackburn

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Jennifer Brooks, Trey Kamman, and Courtney Nicholls Betty Bexley and Joy Ann Hennessey Allen Kitchens and Carolyn Alford Ann McCarley and Debbie Bosarge Toni and Dick Ferguson with Landy and Peggy Teller Jeane, Karen, Collins, David, and Brother Blackburn Melissa and Jeb Blackburn, Karen and David Blackburn, Jeane and Brother Blackburn, and Ann Barrett and Steven Ladner with Ali, Caton, Emmerson, and Collins Blackburn Hester Magnuson and Shelby Ferris

Reception for Centenarian Thelma Blackburn | Vicksburg, MS | THE social SCENE

22 Frontâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Connor, Caleb, and Kamman

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Brooks; Emerie, Ciana, and Aaralyn Nicholls; and Caroline, Barrett, and Jake Kamman; backâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Chris and Jennifer Brooks, Courtney and Aaron Nicholls, Betty and John Kamman, and Nicole and Trey Kamman Dot Steen and Monty Wooten Diane and Bill Bost Thelma Blackburn and Fredda Hobgood

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THE social SCENE | Vicksburg, MS | Reception for Centenarian Thelma Blackburn

26 Patsy and Ken Halford 27 Marjorie and Don Neumann 28 Josephine Peterson, Fredda Hobgood, 29 30 31 32 26

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Peggy and James Harper, and Dr. and Mrs. Matt Buckles John and Margie Scott with Eleanor Price Edward Kitchens, Allen Kitchens, and Lee Roy Robinson Bessie Farr, Peggy Harwood, and Cindy Noble Teague, Tavish, Amy, Morgan, and Tracy Towner

In the Garden

story and photos by Dr. Gary R. Bachman

Growing Mint without Any Trouble

int is one those plants that gardeners both love and hate at the same time. Many gardeners love the sweet fragrance they smell when they brush against the mint foliage. They also find mint iced tea to be delicious or a mint julep to be a sure-fire sum- For greatest flavor and fragrance, harvest mint after flowers are mer-time refreshment. However, in the landscape, mint produced. grows aggressively and can quickly take over an area. I’ve heard people say—hopefully in jest—that the only way to control mint in the landscape is to move. Most of the mints I’ve mentioned are commonly found in gar What we call mint is actually a diverse group of plants. It seems den centers, especially in spring and early summer. However, mint there are hundreds of varieties the home gardener can grow. With is really easy to propagate if you have a friend growing the variety their familiar fragrances, peppermint and spearmint are perhaps of mint you want to grow. the best known. To share, divide a plant to have many smaller plants. Mint pro Other varieties expand the olfactory mint experience. Ginger duces stems that scramble across the ground, forming roots whermint, apple mint, and orange mint all are appropriately named. The ever a stem touches the ground. Snip off some of these sections mention of chocolate mint brings mint chocolate candies to mind; with roots, and they will readily grow into new plants. Another but to me, the name more accurately describes the contrast of the way to start a plant is to take a cutting and place it in a glass of wachocolate brown stems to the bright green foliage. ter. Roots should form in a couple of weeks. The smell and taste of mint are well known; but many people Despite the jokes about mint’s proliferation, controlling its growth don’t notice these plants have flowers, too. Flowers are produced is not an impossible mission. The key is to establish boundaries. in spikes that are magnets for various kinds of pollinators, espe An easy way to do this is to plant mint in a tall, bottomless concially bumblebees and wasps. Most herbs taste best before the tainer. Dig the planting hole and place the bottomless container flowers form, but mint tastes and smells best after the flowers in the hole, leaving a few inches above ground. Fill the containhave formed. er with good, amended soil and plant the mint. The bottomless container will provide a physical barrier that prevents the spread of the root system. I’ve come up with a unique solution to controlling mint and recycling at the same time. In the summer months, it’s common to see coolers beside the road that have fallen off pickups and out of boats. I stop and pick these coolers up. When filled with good potting mix, the mint grows well; and the roots cannot escape. Be sure the drain plug is open so the plants are not over-watered. If the cooler doesn’t have a drain plug, simply drill some drain holes in the bottom. Wherever you grow mint, just be sure to try some so you can enjoy the fragrance outdoors and the taste indoors.

Recycled coolers make easy mint-growing containers and limit mint’s aggressive growth.

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THE social SCENE | Vicksburg, MS | Engagement Party for Lyons and Strickland

Engagement Party for Lyons and Strickland An engagement party for Laura Beth Lyons and Michael Strickland was held in Vicksburg, Mississippi, at the home of Howard and Belynda Waring on Friday, May 4, 2012. Hosting the event along with the Warings were Bobby and Jackie Amborn, Dean and Kelly Andrews, Ronnie and Sharon Andrews, Paul and Linda Banchetti, Bobby and Natalie Bailess, Rusty and Kim Barnes, David and Linda Biedenharn, Johnny and Audrey Bobo, Rick and Harley Caldwell, Eustace and Kathy Conway, Leanne Dyess, Randy and Janie Easterling, Trip and Kim Farris, Coy D. and Lori Flanagan, Steve and Melody Golding, Wendell and Nancy Lou Gray, Brett and Brenda Hayes, John and Therese Hood, David and Connie Hosemann, Allen and Sheila Hudspeth, Ricky and Saralie Johnson, Marianne May Jones, Tim and Beckie Kerut, Larry and Cherie Kilgo, David and Nena Longmire, Mark and Beth Mazzanti, Peter and Carol Mims, Butch and Tina Nasif, John and Gwyn Neill, Paul Campbell and Cindy Noble, Buck and Betty Penley, Bill and Deborah Price, Robert and Barbara Rials, Russell and Teresa Richards, and D. P. and Lee Waring.

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Laura Beth Lyons and Michael Strickland Katie Swan and Merry Swan Cindy and Laura Beth Lyons Michael Strickland and Laura Beth Lyons Shearwood Lyons, Faye Parker, and Selby Parker Betty Penley, Kelly Andrews, and Buck Penley Larry and Cherie Kilgo Brandon and Emily Rut

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Engagement Party for Lyons and Strickland | Vicksburg, MS | THE social SCENE

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Johnny Crocker Nancy Lou, Wendell, and Mary Kaylin Gray Ashley Swan and Daniel Bordelon Jordan Muirhead and Natalie Waring Laura Beth Lyons and Allison Smith Lacey Hall, Charles Harrell, and Lori Flanagan DeAnna McCurdy, Adam McCurdy, Devin Cooper, Penny Cooper, and Cathy Cooper Joe, Shannon, and Cindy Lyons Vickie Williamson, Kala Williamson, and Nena Longmire

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THE social SCENE | Vicksburg, MS | Engagement Party for Lyons and Strickland

18 Todd and Brandi Nester 19 Ashley Gatian and Zack Stewart 20 Johnny Bowen and Julie Nosser 21 Kori Strickland and Laura Beth Lyons 22 Joe Lyons and Barbara Rials 23 Joey and Shannon Lyons with Brian Dyess 24 Audrey Bobo, Meredith Perrett, Leigh Kelly, and Ashley Kelly

25 John Bowen, Lib Bagby, and Audrey Bobo 26 Laura Beth Lyons, Holly Hearon, Nikki Herring, Laura Hudspeth, Megan Easterling, and Claire Richards

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Engagement Party for Lyons and Strickland | Vicksburg, MS | THE social SCENE

27 Sissy Carter, Katie Carter, Kelly Andrews, and Laura Beth Lyons

28 Joan and Bubba Bowen 29 Lindsey Gilliland, Diane Klaus, and Hunt Gilliland

30 Martha Debra Strickland and 31

Susan Poole Megan Easterling, Laura Hudspeth, and Charles Waring

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THE social SCENE | Vicksburg, MS | Engagement Party for Lyons and Strickland

32 Jordan Amborn, Ellen Amborn, and Emily Melancon

33 Ashley Vinzant, Laura Beth

Lyons, and Brittany Thomason

34 Wes Perrett, Vance Gullett, and Meredith Perrett

35 Jennifer Bowen, Joan Bowen, and Emily Rut

36 Kathy and Aubrey Bowen 37 Martha Ann Klaus and Natalie Bailess

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Something Scrumptious

story and photos by Jennie Guido

Duck’s Nest II Spokane, Louisiana

have been trained over the years to avoid adages or old sayings to describe something in writing; however, one thing is for sure—“you learn something new every day.” When I ventured across the river to Louisiana with my favorite tagalong, my mom, and over to Duck’s Nest II on Concordia Parish’s Lake St. John, I was quick to find out that the history of the restaurant touched base with that of my second home, the Mississippi Delta. Just a few miles outside of Clarksdale, Mississippi, you can find Moon Lake, a treat for Delta natives similar to our very own Lake St. John and Lake Concordia. Duck’s Nest II owner, Fay Crews, opened the original Duck’s Nest on Moon Lake several years ago. Even though Fay sold that restaurant in 1989 and learned it later Top— David and Fay have been livng and working on Lake St. John since 1997. Right— 8-ounce filet mignon and loaded baked potato Far right—Fried shrimp, fried catfish, and sweet potato fries

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burned down, the history of the building made its way down Mississippi Highway 61 and across the river where it settled on Lake St. John. “We named the original restaurant Duck’s Nest because actual wood ducks were nesting inside of the boat house of the restaurant. It just made sense,” Fay explained. Once she moved to the area and then met and married David Crews, the two started to search for a place to be their own joint adventure in the restaurant world.

“I had always wanted to own a restaurant,” David told me. “When Paul and Randee’s on Lake St. John went up for sale, we bought it in October of 1997, remodeled it, and made it into our own place— Duck’s Nest II.” With every Great Mississippi River Balloon Race poster known to mankind adorning the walls of the rustic restaurant, Duck’s Nest II has a family feel right when you walk in the door. “We have grown close to our customers over the years. We have watched them growing up from babies to turning into grown-ups,” both Fay and David explained. With a view over Lake St. John, this Miss-Lou landmark is a treasure to people all over the area. Whether enjoying a summer weekend on the lake or having an outing in the cooler months, you are sure to find something scrumptious at Duck’s Nest II. As the menu entices, “You will start the evening with a complimentary serving of turnip greens and homemade hush puppies. Then you might choose to indulge in fried mushrooms, homemade onion rings, or fried dill pickles as a starter.” I am a stickler for a good hush puppy, and their fried little fritters are some of the best you can find. By now, most of you should know that I am a rather big fan of any kind of fish dish that I can find. At Duck’s Nest II, one of their specialties and your recipe of the month is a fabulous home-made concoction featuring a favorite Louisiana crustacean—the Blackened Crawfish Supreme. This dish is a generous helping of blackened Louisiana crawfish over a bed of plump rice. David explained, “A customer wanted the blackened

The Duck’s Nest II located on Lake St. John

crawfish but wanted the ‘juices,’ too. So I thought it over and created this recipe that has become a fast favorite.” Another choice from the menu that will keep you coming back is the eight-ounce Filet Mignon. Mom was a very happy camper when we ventured over for the interview during which she was the lucky one who enjoyed every bite of that juicy steak. I turned around for just a few short minutes for a photo op or two only to turn back and find her plate spotless—must have been good. Needless to say, I think I have created a monster that will most likely

turn into my constant side kick in my little adventures in the future. Selections I have always enjoyed from Duck’s Nest II are the Bar-B-Q Shrimp and the Grilled Catfish. Both are absolute perfection and never seem to disappoint. Of course, everything on the menu goes wonderfully with their sweet potato French fries and an order of the Cole slaw. Open Tuesday through Sunday for dinner, the atmosphere of Duck’s Nest II is

obviously one of its best features. How can you go wrong when sitting on its back porch; looking out over the lake; and enjoying good food, fabulous friends, and Duck’s Nest II’s signature cocktail—the Lake St. John Sunset?

Blackened Crawfish Supreme (Makes two servings) 4 tablespoons unsalted butter ½ cup seafood stock 1 heaping tablespoon Paul Prudhomme’s Blackened Redfish Magic 8 ounces cooked and peeled Louisiana crawfish tails ½ cup cooked rice Heat stock and butter on high heat in sauté pan until butter melts. Add blackened seasoning and crawfish tails. Cook over high heat for two minutes. Remove crawfish from pan and place on warm plate with rice. Return stock to heat for one minute or until stock starts to thicken slightly. Remove and pour ¼ of the stock over crawfish and rice. Return the rest to heat. Reduce until thickened. Be careful not to burn. Spoon on top of rice and crawfish, making sure to serve all of the blackened seasoning as part of the dish.

Look at that spectacular view!

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THE social SCENE | Vicksburg, MS | Birthday Party for Presley Carr

Birthday Party for Presley Carr An Alice-in-Wonderland themed birthday party feted Presley Carr on her second birthday. The party was held at the home of her parents, Julie and Brandon Carr, in Vicksburg, Mississippi.

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Presley Carr Brandon, Presley, and Julie Carr Debbie Carr, Presley Carr, and Jo Holliday Buddy and Jo Holliday Presley and Brandon Carr Anna Wade, Olivia Wade, and Katie Kavanaugh Presley and Julie Carr Faye Phillips, Jo Holliday, Joyce French, and Shirley Williams Julie Carr, Lauren Taylor, Kelly Meeks, and Anna Wade

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Birthday Party for Presley Carr | Vicksburg, MS | THE social SCENE

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Jane and Christen Matthews Holly, Kate, and Luke Vollor Buddy and Jo Holliday with Presley Carr Olivia Wade Madelyn and Katie Kavanaugh Kelly Meeks and Aideyn Pickett Heather and Liam Gibson Buddy Holliday and George Carr Emma Vincent and Hunter Ray

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Random Jottings

by Patricia Taylor

Maldon Essex

All Saints Church in Maldon, England

This particular Random Jotting is about a small town nearby where we live in England (apart from our life in Natchez, Mississippi) that has a wonderful history, especially in connection with the USA. I have learnt more about my surrounding area this last month than I ever thought possible, especially the connections with the USA, and am having a great time doing it. Page 36 { July 2012 { Bluffs & Bayous

hether we are in Mississippi or home in England, my husband John and I love nothing more than to spend the day driving around the countryside. It may be somewhere on the coast, a country village, or even one of our many stately homes with their impressive gardens. Each time we go, we always find something that is new to us; and I thought it might be fun to share one of these excursions with you in my random jottings. After all the rain we have had during what is reported to have been the wettest spring on record here in England, suddenly the sun came out and temperatures rose, resulting in the countryside’s bursting suddenly into summer. This being so, we decided to take advantage of all this wonderful sunshine, the sun not being a reliable commodity here in England as it is in Natchez, and visit the lovely little town of Maldon on the Blackwater estuary. We thought to get some sea air and visit the tenth-century herb garden found on the grounds of a long-gone abbey. Unfortunately, the herb garden proved to be no more than a thin strip of soil, filled with little of interest, against a stretch of garden wall. However, we did find the adjacent Maeldune Heritage Centre very interesting indeed. The museum, dedicated to the ancient history of the town, has an amazing 42-foot long “Maldon Tapestry,” celebrating the one-thousandth anniversary of the Battle of Maldon. Maldon or Maeldun (Mael meaning “cross” and dun meaning “hill”) is first mentioned in the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle, which is amongst the most important of documents from the Middle Ages. In AD 890, King Alfred the Great ordered its compilation, and it was added to by generations of anonymous scribes until the middle of the twelfth century. The Chronicle covers a time-line of history (although not complete) from 879 until the death of King Stephen in 1154.(1) Maldon became an important port to the Saxon people with a Hythe or Quay side (Hythe being a Saxon word meaning “landing place”) giving access to the sea via the estuary. The estuary, of course, made it available to attack; and the town was finally lost to the Vikings in 991. A statue to Byrhtnoth, a Saxon warrior slain in the battle, faces out to sea, reflecting all his glory, at the end of Hythe Quay. For well over a thousand years, Hythe Quay has been the gateway to vessels arriving from the sea and is famous for its

sailing barges. These barges are amongst the last cargo vessels in the world still operating under sail with around a dozen of the surviving fleet found here in their home port. As we walked along the quay side, we could see one such barge setting out to sea, its distinctive rusty-red coloured sails filling in the wind from the sea. We stopped to talk to a master of one of the many other barges berthed alongside. He explained that the sails are made of flax and get their distinctive colour from the dressing used to waterproof them, traditionally made from red ochre, cod oil, and seawater. He also went on to tell us that these flat-bottomed barges are perfect for these shallow waters and narrow rivers. They are able to float in as little as three feet of water and able to dry out in the tidal waters without heeling over. He told us that in days gone by they would use the barges to trade along the narrow tributaries, rivers, and estuaries that line the river on its way to the sea which is some 10 to 12 miles to the east. They would load cargoes such as hay and straw, grain, or rubbish from farms. Apparently, they would also let the barges beach on sand banks and mudflats and await the

retreating tide. They would then be loaded with mud and sand for the building and brickmaking industries. Apparently, their heyday came at the turn of the twentieth century when over 2000 were registered plying their trade. Unfortunately, that century also saw a steady decline in their numbers. Our master very proudly told us that these barges were also part of the fleet of “Little Ships” that took soldiers back to England from Dunkirk during World War Two. This part of the country is famous for its oysters and salt production. Both are gotten from the same stretch of the Blackwater estuary and thought to be the best oysters and the finest salt to be found anywhere in Britain. Wild native oysters are dredged from the waters off Dengie Flats (a large, remote area of tidal mudflats and salt marshes at the eastern end of the Dengie peninsula between the estuaries of the Blackwater and Crouch) and then relaid into the beds in the Blackwater.

Top left—Byrhtnoth, a Saxon warrior slain in battle, faces out to sea at the end of Hythe Quay, reflecting all his glory. Top right—Sailing barges moored at Hythe Quay Above—Walkway along the quay side

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This part of Essex has a combination of low rainfall, strong winds, bright sunshine and low-lying marshland, producing salty water perfect for salt making. Evidence shows this has been happening since the Iron Age. Shallow pools, or pans, were dug into the marshland which filled with sea water as the tide came in. Once the tide had retreated, the salt water from the pans was boiled in clay pots over open fires. The fires themselves acted as beacons for the local fishing fleets making their way up the coast. When evaporation was complete, the pots were broken open and the salt removed. In the Middle Ages, production techniques became slightly more sophisticated with the salty brine being boiled in pans made of lead known as leddes. There is a story that I found really interesting regarding the first bulk manufacturing of salt in Maldon and dating back some two thousand years to when the Romans ruled Britain. Cassius Petrox was the commander of a legion of soldiers stationed at Maldon. Now, he did not like the English climate terribly much; all the fog and damp that came off the marshes made his bones ache. What he did enjoy, however, were hot baths; they eased his pains and enabled him to keep up with his men when they marched through the Essex countryside. His servants would use the sea water from the Blackwater estuary, heating it by building a fire underneath the tub. He liked his bath hot and would punish his servants if they let the bath water become too cold. Because of this consequence, when he was out on manoeuvres one day and was late returning, they left the fire burning. On his return, the water was boiling merrily away and had been for some time, too hot, of course, for him to use. This situation, too, made him angry; obviously his aching bones made him a bad patient. What he did notice, however, were small white crystals at the bottom of the bath. Inadvertently, his servants had discovered a method for producing salt from sea water. He had his servants make a larger batch which he sent to his fellow officers who promptly asked for more. Seeing an opportunity to be able to make some money and rest his weary bones, he resigned his commission and devoted his time, or rather that of his servants, to making salt. Hence, the beginning of the salt making industry in Maldon. (2) Salt has always been very highly valued. For example the word salary comes from salarium, the money given to Roman soldiers to buy their salt. Later in history, Page 38 { July 2012 { Bluffs & Bayous

your place at table, either above or below the salt cellar, denoted your social standing. The word salt is from where we get such expressions as worthy of his salt, meaning “one who deserves his success,” or he is the salt of the earth, meaning “he is the very best of people.” The salt industry in Maldon thrived until the nineteenth century when heavy taxation made it less than viable to produce. Combined with more economical methods of salt production in Cheshire, the local industry unfortunately went into decline. Now only one company makes salt in Maldon. What I did find fascinating is that Maldon is most particularly noted for its connections with the early days of America. Maldon had representation in the English Parliament from the earliest of times; and during the reign of James I (1603 - 1625), Maldon had 4 members of Parliament. All were concerned with promoting colonization in America. One of these was Lord Theophilus Howard, later the Second Earl of Suffolk (of whom we shall discover more in another of my random jottings). He was a member of the executive council of the London Virginia Company who in 1607 established the Jamestown Settlement along the James River in present-day Virginia. In 1620 the Mayflower set sail from Plymouth. Its master, Christopher Jones, came from Harwich, another Essex sea port, and married a Maldon girl Josian Grey. Many people from Essex towns and villages close to Maldon headed for the Colonies. Many of these people were the founders, statesmen, and soldiers who made the United States what it is today. The Sherman family made their mark over a period of two-and-a-half centuries and came originally from Dedham. There was Philip Sherman (1611-1687), who founded Rhode Island; General W. T. Sherman (1820-1891) of the American Civil War; and James S. Sherman (1855-1912), who became a Vice President of the United States. From Braintree came John Adams (1735-1826), an American Founding Father and the second President of the United States, and his son John Quincy Adams (1767-1848), the sixth President of the United States. Ancestors of both Presidents Bush can be found at Messing and Feering from as early as the fourteenth century. It was in 1631 that Reynold Bush set sail for America and settled in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

Presidential connections are also found in Purleigh some four miles south of Maldon where the Reverend Lawrence Washington (1602-1652), the great-great-grandfather of George Washington, the first President of the United States of America, was rector during the mid-1600s. Now, Lawrence Washington was an interesting man. He once was a Fellow of Brasenose College, Oxford, until his marriage to Amphilis Twigdon in 1633 after which he became the parish priest at Purleigh. At this time, civil war was looming; and on 22 August 1642, King Charles I raised his standard and began the war, Purleigh at the time being deep in Parliamentarian territory. Washington was accused of being a royalist and was moved to the lesser parish of Little Braxted, close by Maldon. On his death, Washington was buried in the churchyard of All Saints Church in Maldon although the exact location is not known because most graves in those days would not have been marked.

An excerpt from the registers of All Saints Church in Waldon lists the name of Lawrence Washington, noted as the “Great, great grandfather of George Washington.”

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We paid a visit to this pretty church with its unusual equilaterally triangular tower and its niches in the outside walls where beautifully carved figures of notable men of the area at the time of its building can be found. Amongst others, there is Mellitus, thought to be the first to bring the gospel to the heathens of Essex, and Sir Robert D’Árcy, who was a Member of Parliament for Maldon during the reign of Henry VI. Inside the church, is D’Árcy Chapel. Here, to my absolute amazement, was a most beautiful stained glass window, placed there in memory of said Reverend Lawrence Washington.(3) The window is known as the Washington Window and was given to the church by the citizens of Malden, Massachusetts, and dedicated in 1928. This dedication was in the presence of the Bishop of Chelmsford; the Bishop of New Jersey, USA; the Lord Lieutenant of Essex; and the American Ambassador. This magnificent window depicts not only the Coats of Arms of Canterbury, Chelmsford, Maldon, and the United Kingdom but also those of the United States of America, the Washington Coat of Arms, and those of Malden, USA. Saint George, the Patron Saint of England, is there in the centre signifying patriotism; Saint Nicolas, the patron saint of sailors and those who settled in foreign lands, is to his left, signifying colonization and holding a model of the Mayflower in his left hand. Saint Joan of Arc is to St. George’s right, signifying freedom. Along the bottom of the window is the landing of Columbus on the left; George Washington taking the oath as the first President of the United States in the centre; and on the right, the landing of the Pilgrim Fathers. The more one looked at the window, the more one found there. One can see the Liberty Bell at Philadelphia, the Washington monument at Washington, and the Statue of Liberty outside New York Harbour. As we stood in this tiny church in a small market town in Essex and looked

in awe at this beautiful window, the sun came out; and the colours exploded across the ceiling and walls of the chapel, reflecting all that this window represents. The light of a wonderful country shone across the walls showing a nation of which to be proud, a nation achieved through the struggles of the founding fathers and through hard work, determination, patriotism, and tolerance of religious freedom, and resulting in the greatest nation on earth—all depicted there as an example of that greatness. This window alone made our trip to Maldon worthwhile and brought to mind yet another church window dedicated to our friends in the United States, that which is found in the American Memorial Chapel of the tiny church at Little Easton Lodge. But I shall leave that story for another day.

http://www.britannia.com/history/docs/ asintro2.html (2) http://www.maldonsalt.co.uk/ (3) http://www.allsaintsmaldon. com/a-guide-to-our-church-2/ (1)

Opposite page—The Washington Window was given to the church by the citizens of Malden, Massachusetts, and dedicated in 1928. Top left—George Washington taking the oath of office as President of the United States of America Top right—The Landing of Columbus Above—The Landing of the Pilgrim Fathers

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Tommy Polk: Building Dreams for a Song

story and photos by Elodie Prichartt

When the band Chicago released “Color My World” in 1971, I was in ninth grade in Natchez, Mississippi. The languid cadence of the piano introduction was captivating and beautiful. It’s been called the most famous major seventh chord in the history of music, and it was—bar none—the best slow-dance song of my generation. One day in study hall, I heard that chord being played on the baby grand piano down in Coach Parker’s classroom. I went to see who was playing. Page 44 { July 2012 { Bluffs & Bayous

Ferriday, Louisiana, Mayor Glenn McGlothin and musician-songwriter Tommy Polk pose on the gallery of Will Haney’s Big House Music Hall, one of the restoration projects the two undertook during the past four years.

It was a new kid—a shy young boy with jet-black locks that hung down in his eyes as he played, totally lost in the music. His name was Tommy Polk, and he’d picked the song out by ear. Feeling out of place, not knowing anyone, and not having an athletic bent, Tommy found refuge and release and friends through music. Who doesn’t want to hang with the kid in the band? “I was never good at sports,” he says. “I was always on the sidelines and never got any recognition. When I was about nine, I took a guitar to class and played. Everyone noticed. I was not on the sidelines; I was not overlooked or ignored. I was hooked.” When he was old enough to drive, he took his guitar to a secluded spot on the bluff where he would sit in the shade, the river a wide, shimmering ribbon down below with the flat, Louisiana delta beyond. He started writing songs—the first of hundreds. Tommy would make music his life. In that little classroom in this quiet little town, his journey had only just begun. He moved to Nashville in 1979. In 1981 he began working at a boutique music-publishing company co-owned by Roger Cook, one of Britain’s most successful songwriters, and Canadian-born Ralph Murphy. Between them they had written huge hits such as “I’d Like to Teach the World to Sing”; “Long, Cool Woman in a Black Dress”; “Here Comes that Rainy Day Feelin’ Again”; and “Half the Way.” Under Cook and Murphy, Tommy learned about music publishing, foreign publishing, performing rights, copyrights, song plugging, signing writers, catalog acquisition, demo recordings, and record production. “When I left for Nashville in ’79, I had written a hundred or so songs at that point. I thought I was going to be the biggest thing since sliced bread,” he says, shaking his head. “Wrong! It would be another 200 songs before I got my first substantial cut.” In 1989 Tommy signed with WarnerChappel Music Publishing where he stayed

for four years; thereafter, he remained as a signed songwriter with Warner-Chappel as well as with various publishing houses in Nashville such as EMI, Hamstein, The Farm, and OMG/Acuff Rose. He also has extensive catalogs at other publishing companies including Sony Tree. Some of Tommy’s hit songs include “Look What Followed Me Home” by John Ball; “He Feels Guilty to Me” by Bobbie Cryner; “I Don’t Want You to Go” by Carolyn Dawn Johnson; the recently released “Beyond My Broken Dreams” by Eden Brent; and “Willing to Crawl” by Johnny Neel, which was featured on HBO’s True Blood in 2009. He’s even written songs for Irma Thomas and Bobby Blue Bland. “I loved what I was doing,” he says. “I couldn’t wait to get up in the morning. It wasn’t work; it was play.” Then somehow things changed. “I don’t know,” he says. “It seemed like the music business had become more cutthroat. People were downloading music off the Internet, which really hurt financially, both for me and for everyone else. Even the music changed. Performers were writing their own songs rather than using songwriters. A lot of people were out of work. Perhaps I changed, too. It just wasn’t as much fun anymore.”

So Polk switched gears and with a couple of business partners opened a oneof-a-kind B&B in Clarksdale, Mississippi, called Shack-Up Inn. “We moved some sharecropper shacks onto my cousin’s cotton plantation,” he recounted, “and just fixed them up enough to be livable.” They were simple, rough shacks, the kind where the original old blues players wrote and performed their music— people like Son Thomas, John Lee Hooker, Robert Johnson, Lead Belly, and others. It was a huge success. “People wanted the blues experience,” he said, “and they came from everywhere—England, Germany, Japan, and the United States.” It dawned on him that Clarksdale had become a music-tourist destination. He discovered he liked the hospitality business and opened three more B&Bs. He then decided to move to Clarksdale permanently and bought a house there for his mother. However, when he came back to Natchez to sell his mother’s house in Vidalia,

Above—Polk in early songwriting days Left—Fans enjoying the third annual Soul Survivors Festival held recently on the grounds of the newly restored Will Haney’s Big House Music Hall

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Louisiana, he looked around and realized he didn’t want to cut all ties to his hometown. “Natchez is really one of the most beautiful towns in the world,” he said, “so I bought another shack to use as a B&B and called it ‘Shantybellum.’ I figured I could hire someone to run it here and have a place to stay when I came to visit.” While restoring the house, though, he decided he really wanted to come home for good. So he stayed, eventually selling the B&B businesses in Clarksdale and going to work as a consultant for the town of Ferriday, Louisiana, under Mayor Glenn McGlothin, a musician himself. “I took Glenn to Clarksdale to show him what we’d done,” Tommy explained. “He loved it. And I told him that with Ferriday’s musical heritage, I bet we could do the same thing here.” Ferriday is home to some remarkable music history. Doublefirst cousins Jerry Lee Lewis, Mickey Gilley, and Jimmy Swaggart are native sons. For years Haney’s Big House, which burned in 1966, had been a feature attraction on the Chitlin’ Circuit, hosting such notable African American entertainers as B. B. King, Moms Mabley, Redd Foxx, Ray Charles, and Bobby Bland. After witnessing a smokestack industry pass up Ferriday as a place to do business, McGlothin agreed on a new economic development plan focusing on tourism and music tourism combined with a healthy dose of cultural-heritage tourism. Building on tourism assets already in the area like Frogmore Plantation, the Lewis Family Museum, the Delta Music Museum, and the Arcade Theater, the city got grants to implement a plan that called for the following: • The renovation of a burned-out shell of a building into an open-air venue called Rockabilly Plaza, which would also function as a farmer’s market/music venue and arts center for youth with original artwork/murals on exterior walls; • The renovation of a deteriorating railroad property into the Haney’s Big House Music Hall to include a large, fully covered outdoor stage for festivals and events; Page 46 { July 2012 { Bluffs & Bayous

• The partial restoration of an underutilized railroad building to be leased as a private club. In addition, Ferriday began hosting an annual songwriters’ workshop at the Arcade for local songwriting hopefuls, bringing many of Tommy’s Nashville

Top—Musician discussions were held during the Song Writers Workshop in the restored Arcade in downtown Ferriday, Louisiana; Polk was instrumental in creating this event for the town. Above—Musician YZ Ealey performing during the 2012 Soul Survivors Festival

co-writers to teach about the business and craft of music. Ferriday also created and hosted the annual Soul Survivors Festival, honoring Will Haney and Haney’s Big House and the musicians associated with Haney’s from the 1940s until its destruction in 1966. It was an uphill job. McGlothin had to deal with water issues and his own health issues as well. But he and Tommy persevered. On May 22 at the third annual Soul Survivors Festival, McGlothin presided over a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the new Will Haney’s Big House Music Hall and Jerry Lee Lewis Rockabilly Park and Plaza, the renaming of First Street to Pee Wee Whittaker Avenue, the naming of Will Haney Circle, and the placement of seven historic markers downtown honoring Ferriday’s past and people. As McGlothin’s mayoral term comes to a close, Tommy is looking ahead. He hopes to continue working as a consultant in the area. He’s even going back to songwriting. “I’m playing with a local band in Natchez called Backwoods,” he said. “I’m also beginning to write again with two of my Nashville co-writers on Skype and am putting lyrics on prerecorded tracks sent as mp3 to me. High-tech Tommy songs.” Tommy fondly looks back on his time with Glenn McGlothin in Ferriday, explaining, “I am so glad Glenn asked me to come aboard. For four years now, I’ve been able to focus on music, even bringing Nashville friends and co-writers down to Ferriday, and to work on downtown development projects that I am so proud to have been a part of.” Tommy also recalled, “In researching Haney’s for Ferriday I learned that three of the headliners during its heyday would record some of my songs. I loved learning that. Who would’ve guessed it?” About the future of the various tourism programs that he and McGlothin initiated, Tommy remarked, “We will leave our babies behind for the next administration to nurture and grow Ferriday into a music destination. The ball is in their court. I wish them well. They have a tremendous tourism opportunity. I hope Mayor-elect Gene Allen will make the most of it.”

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A Drawing Workshop is one of the many classes offered for adults at the Southern Cultural Heritage Foundation, Vicksburg’s Cultural Arts Center.

Annette Kirkland

Southern Cultural Heritage Foundation: Extending Artistic Excellence throughout the Community

Live models offer unique experiences in the Spectrum art classes.

icksburg, Mississippi’s Southern Cultural Heritage Foundation, established in 1994, operates as a nonprofit, cultural arts center located on the former campus of St. Francis Xavier Academy and Convent. The site’s five historic buildings, circa 1830 to 1955, comprise a Mississippi Landmark property that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Foundation’s intent is to provide for the Vicksburg area with its diverse cultural heritage exposure to a wealth of artists who have honed their skills and talents and are eager to share them with the community through educational programs. The calendar year offers over 220 activities that are free or at low cost to participants due to the support and generosity of the Mississippi Arts Commission, City of Vicksburg, Southern Cultural Heritage Foundation members, and corporate sponsors. Some examples of these activities include workshops in knitting, oils and acrylics, drawing, Spanish, creative writing, cooking, guitar, photography, harmonica, speaking, wreath-making, centerpiece design, gardening, photography, and working with clay; dance lessons for adults and youth; weekly afterschool art workshops; and a summer multi-cultural art camp for youth. Lectures and performances have included nationally known and regional authors, artists, and performers such as John Barry, Carolyn Haines, John Maxwell, Nevada Barr, Marshall Ramsey, Wyatt Waters, Robert St. John, and Ellis Nassour. In addition, the Foundation’s many exciting concerts have featured a new annual community favorite Classics in the Courtyard, Israeli multi-instrumentalist Amir Gwirtzman, classical guitarist Jeffery Bianchi, the annual Saint Joseph Christmas Concert, piano virtuoso Vladimir Zaitsev, and renowned songwriter and vocalist Shannon McNally. The Smithsonian Traveling Exhibit, Mississippi Art Colony, and Mississippi Museum of Art are among those who have provided the organization’s art showings; and the Foundation is also available for event such as meetings, banquets, receptions, and concerts. Page 50 { July 2012 { Bluffs & Bayous

Programs such as the St. Joseph Orchestra Christmas Concert are provided via various grants through the Southern Cultural Heritage Foundation.

Teri Roddy, Natchez, Mississippi, artist, offered classes in gold leafing.

The multi-functional Southern Cultural Heritage Foundation offers space for meetings, lectures, receptions, banquets, lunches, and dinners. Beading Class is one of the many diverse class offerings provided in the year’s curriculum for the Vicksburg-Warren County community.

Classics in the Courtyard, a four-week program sponsored by ENTERGY, will run October 19 and 26 and November 2 and 9, 2012.

Specialty classes such as Cooking with Herbs offers one-on-one expertise from area chefs.

Activities for children offer musical arts development during the after-school and summer art classes.

The Foundation also explores and interprets the diverse southern culture of Vicksburg through author readings, book signings, and the Southern Book Club, and conducts guided tours of historic buildings. Annette Kirkland, Executive Director for the Southern Cultural Heritage Foundation, has been one of the organization’s best cheerleaders for the promotion of the SCHF as Vicksburg’s Cultural Arts Center. A resident of Vicksburg since 1988, Kirkland has served as the Foundation’s Executive Director since 2008. Her job description includes fundraising, public relations, business development, marketing, rental and special events, grant writing, programming, membership, and administrative duties associated with day-to-day operations. She definitely does it all to make cultural events happen for the community. “And I do sleep at night,” laughed Kirkland. Two main benefits she spearheads are the Annual Over the River Run held in October and the Annual Chocolate Affair held the first Thursday in May. In addition to her position with the Southern Cultural Heritage Foundation, Kirkland is Chairperson of the Vicksburg Convention and Visitors Bureau Board of Directors and serves on the Vicksburg Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and on the Marketing Committee for United Way. Events offered July through December 2012 are monthly culinary workshops with William Furlong, ballroom dance lessons with James Frechette on two Sundays each month from 5:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m., weekly guitar lessons with Richard McComas, and Southern Book Club meetings on the third Wednesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. Additional classes include the following: July 9 - 12 4-Day Portrait Drawing Workshop with Jerrod Partridge, 9:00 a.m. – Noon July 19 Hobbs Freeman Arts and Nature Visual Art Exhibit and Competition, 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. August 6 - 17 “Artists that Rock” Exhibit and Performance Beginning August 30 for 13 Thursdays River Kids Free After-School Art Program

September 18 Stuart Towns Lecture & Book Signing, 6:00 p.m. October 19 & 26 and November 2 & 9 Classics in the Courtyard November 3 Hobbs Freeman Arts & Nature Festival, 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. December 7 - 8 Vicksburg High School Madrigals Dinner & Performance, 7:30 p.m. December 10 5th Annual Holly Days Arts & Crafts Show, 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

For additional information concerning activities at the SCHF, telephone 601-631-2997, visit its Facebook page and click on Events, or visit www.southernculture.org.

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Join the Fourth of July Flotilla: eep the flags flying, keep the fleet afloat, and join them in celebrating Faith, Family, and Freedom at Lake St. John near Ferriday, Louisiana. In the tradition of the blessing of the shrimp boats in South Louisiana and of celebrating our nation’s Declaration of Independence Day from Great Britain, July 4, 1776, the annual Lake St. John Flotilla will set sail on Saturday July 7, commemorating our national Fourth of July holiday. The Flotilla has become a Miss-Lou tradition, a time to celebrate family and freedom and a time to thank God for this great land and, to quote the Flotilla Committee, “for our beautiful piece of God’s Country—Lake St. John.” The flotilla’s

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parade of boats and other recreational water vehicles will begin at 3:00 p.m. on the north end of the lake; will be led by Sheriff Kenneth Hedrick, followed by Grand Marshall Monelle Mosley; and will stop for a blessing, given by Reverend Louis Sklar of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, at the Steckler pier located near Spokane Marina. Flotilla Grand Marshall Moseley and her late husband, Louis Charles “Sparky” Moseley, purchased their lake house to enjoy water sports and relaxed lake-living with their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Monelle has served Concordia Parish as Tax Assessor for nine years, and she will retire from public service in December to become a “retired” resident of the lake. She is an active member of Vidalia

Celebrate Faith, Family & Freedom! First Baptist Church, Rotary Club, Vidalia Garden Club, and Concordia Parish Chamber of Commerce. Flotilla Committee members Donna Maroon, Norma Jean Price, Gay Guercio, and Richard Alwood encourage all lake and Independence Day enthusiasts to have their watercraft—jet skis, sailboats, bass boats, or pontoon boats—blessed for the season. Prizes will be awarded in several categories, but the vessel does not have to be decorated to be blessed. Priests stress that the “blessing of the flotilla is a festive occasion but also a serious religious one.” The priest blesses all the vessels with holy water to foster safe ‘sailing.’ Prizes also will be awarded for decorated piers, and pier judging begins at 1:00 p.m. Registration for both flotilla entries

and pier competition will be at the Spokane Resort on Saturday, July 7, from 9:00 a.m. until noon. The fee per flotilla entry is $10.00 and per pier is $5.00. The public is invited to view the Flotilla from Spokane Resort, and at 8:00 p.m. a band sponsored by the resort will kick off the evening festivities that include a fireworks show at 9:00 p.m. accompanied by live broadcasting and patriotic music. T-shirts and posters celebrating Lake St. John’s Fourth of July Flotilla are available at Spokane Marina, the Tiki Hut, and Lake St. John Grocery prior to the Flotilla’s getting underway. For more information contact Donna Maron at 318-481-0182.

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THE social SCENE | Ferriday, LA | Engagement Party Fetes Alwood and Edwards

Engagement Party Fetes Alwood and Edwards An engagement party was held June 2, 2012, at the home of Ann and Barry Maxwell in Ferriday, Louisiana, to honor Mary Margaret Alwood of Ferriday and Stephen Edwards of Natchez, Mississippi, who will marry in August 2012. Hosting the event along with the Maxwells were Tom and Jeannie Milliken, Johnny and Margaret Fudickar, Lynne and Mitch Ashmore, Bubba and Becky Gremillion, Bryant and Susan Hammett, and Rose and David Jones

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Stephen Edwards and Mary Margaret Alwood Duke and Paula Edwards Andy and Nancy Anders Barry Maxwell and Sheila Alwood Matt Devereaux and Brandon Gremillion Joanna and Jason McNeel Sheila Alwood and Charles Chauvin Nancy Anders and Dorothy Chauvin Richard and Sheila Alwood

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Engagement Party Fetes Alwood and Edwards | Ferriday, LA | THE social SCENE

10 11

12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21

Murphy Hinson and Caroline Edwards Mary Margaret Alwood and Theresa Mullins Sela Roberts and Anna Bet Roberts Tommy Denning and Heather Burget Sheila Alwood and Jeanne Edwards Richard Alwood and Richard Harriss Pam Middleton and Debbie Bonner Emmett and Teresa Burns Craig and Lynn Bradford Anna Bet Roberts and Edie Chauvin Dee Newman and Christine Newman Paul Salvo and Cal Alwood

18 16

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THE social SCENE | Ferriday, LA | Engagement Party Fetes Alwood and Edwards

22 Stephen Edwards with Thomas and Meredith Perry

23 Jennifer and Van Voss 24 Jeanne Edwards with Meredith and Thomas Perry

25 Terry Iverstine and Sheila Alwood 26 Scott McLemore, Ryan Rachel, Jessica 27 28 29 30 31

Matthews, Elizabeth Tanner, and Tori Gremillion Lynne Ashmore, Tom Milliken, Mitch Ashmore, Mary Margaret Alwood, and Stephen Edwards Sheila Alwood, Mary Margaret Alwood, Allie Jordan, and Lou Jordan Lynne and Mitch Ashmore, Jeannie Millikin, Margaret Fudickar, Tom Milliken, Rose Jones, and Becky Gremillion Margaret Fudickar, Jeanine Herrington, Lou Jordan, and Ann Maxwell Rachel Durel, Lynne Ashmore, and Mary Margaret Alwood

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Engagement Party Fetes Alwood and Edwards | Ferriday, LA | THE social SCENE

32 Torri Gremillion, Caroline Devereaux, and Mary Margaret Alwood

33 Jake Middleton and Joe Bonner 34 Scott McLemore, Stephen Edwards, and Laura McLemore

35 Sandy Burget, Mary Margaret Alwood, and Jeannie Milliken

36 Hunter McKeiver, Gary Edwards, John Taylor, and Jason McNeel

37 Janet and Tom Matthews with Ryan Rachel 32

and Jessica Matthews

38 Seated—Sheila Alwood, Mary Margaret

Alwood, Shannon Alwood, and Heather Burget; standing—Richard Alwood, Cal Alwood, Stephen Edwards, Lawrence Alwood, and Brad Burget Seated—Margaret Fudickar, Lynne Ashmore, Mary Margaret Alwood, Nancy Anders, Ann Maxwell, and in back Jeannie Milliken; standing—Bubba and Becky Gremillion, Rose Jones, Andy Anders, Stephen Edwards, Mitch Ashmore, Tom Milliken, Johnny Fudicker, and Barry Maxwell

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THE social SCENE | Ferriday, LA | Engagement Party Fetes Alwood and Edwards

40 Jeannette Perry and Gene Blanchard 41 Jennifer and Bobby Smith 42 Linda and John Alwood and Bubba Gremillion

43 Roxanne Salvo, Mary Margaret Alwood, and Paul Salvo

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Engagement Party Fetes Alwood and Edwards | Ferriday, LA | THE social SCENE

44 Alyson Perry, Mary Margaret Alwood, and Meredith Perry 45 John, Lou, and Allie Jordan 46 Susan Hammett, Mary Margaret Prescott, and Elizabeth Tanner 47 Kacye and Allen Smith, Mary Margaret Alwood, and Stephen Edwards 48 Lindsay Brashier, Tori Gremillion, Mary Margaret Prescott, Kristen Pate, 49 50

Mary Margaret Alwood, Elizabeth Tanner, Jessica Matthews, and Lauren Middleton Jeremy Leonick, Lindsay Brashier, Mary Margaret Alwood, and Stephen Edwards Stephen Edwards, Mary Margaret Alwood, and Lauren and Wes Middleton

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Brookhaven’s Drama Camp:

An Encore of July Fun for Regional Students

rom cats to pirates to cowboys and kings ... add a few dwarfs one summer and a wooden boy the next—the Summer Drama Camp at Brookhaven Little Theatre in Brookhaven, Mississippi, is a place that calls for creativity, embraces self expression, and encourages the arts. For the eighth year during this July, the two-week camp will make room again on its stage for children first through seventh grades and teach them more than just lines and costuming. The camp offers the joyful benefits of live performances, art education, and imagination. Brookhaven Little Theatre’s annual drama camp was born out of necessity. There was a drastic need for artistic education during the summer months in the area of Brookhaven where the theater calls home. During this two-week camp, participants are grouped with peers of similar age and ability and assigned to counselors, making close-knit families within the theater. During the day, groups travel in these family “pods” throughout several sessions filling three hours with activity. Groups spend time with the volunteer Director Jana Fulda Russell (a certified choral arts teacher) as she instructs them on stage with lines, blocking, props, and costuming. They also visit an artsand-crafts area where the projects coordinate with the theme of

story and photos by JoAnna Sproles Page 62 { July 2012 { Bluffs & Bayous

the play. Finally, they spend some circle time together, performing physically and mentally with games like charades, prop dressing, improvisation exercises, and team building.

At the end of the two weeks, the students perform their play for two nights in front of family, friends, and the community. The cast and crew also enjoy a cast party to celebrate their accomplishments. “It is not an easy task to take a play on the first day, cast it within three days, and get everyone to begin learning their parts,” Russell said. “But, in the end, they have all learned to work as one cast to deliver a charming production for everyone in the audience.” Russell has many volunteers to help her work through the production. Teenagers in eighth through twelfth grades also volunteer at the camp to earn their community service hours required by schools and scholarship applications. “These are the top students in their classes, and we help each other through this process,” Russell said. “By the time it is all over, teenagers and younger students share a close bond that was built through encouragement. We all learn from each other and keep the environment positive for students as they learn more about themselves and the creative process as a whole.” The camp this summer, which is “The Little Mermaid,” is scheduled for July 9 through July 20, running Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon. The tuition for the camp also serves an important purpose since it fuels the SAVE the HAVEN fund. This collection of money throughout the year helps BLT volunteers

complete renovation projects to the building. The cost per student for the full two weeks is $175, which includes daily tuition, camp t-shirt, performance DVD, and daily snack. Registration forms for campers are available now on the BLT website, under SUMMER CAMP. Applications for volunteer teens are also available online. Upon completion of their

participation, student counselors will receive a community service letter confirming their involvement. “We have had great participation in the past and many, many repeat campers because they really enjoy their experience with us,” Russell said. “We hope to have another great summer of enrollment and invite children from all surrounding counties to come play with us.” Visit www.haventheatre.org for further information.

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THE social SCENE | Natchez, MS | Edwards and Hinson Engagement Celebration

Edwards and Hinson Engagement Celebration An engagement celebration was held recently in honor of Caroline Edwards and Murphy Hinson, both of Natchez, Mississippi. Family and friends gathered for the event in the penthouse of the Callon Building in downtown Natchez, overlooking the Mississippi River.

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Murphy Hinson and Caroline Edwards Whitney and Justin Dollar Maddie Kirkwood and Preston Edwards Melinda and Patrick Biglane Toby and Sarah Maier Wicks Cully Torrence and Brittany Funderburg Gene, Abby, Laura, and Brittany Laird Frontâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Brittany Laird, Mackenzie Burns, and Alex Roberts; backâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Mattie Geoghegan, Sarah Calhoun, Emily Stevens, Mary Beth Aubic, Caroline Edwards, and Whitney Dollar

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Edwards and Hinson Engagement Celebration | Natchez, MS | THE social SCENE

9 10 11 12

13 9

Alex and Pam Middleton Gayle and Caroline Edwards Stephen Edwards, Mary Margaret Alwood, Johnathan Perry, Alex Roberts, Brittany Laird, and Ryan Zumbo Sandy Hall, Mandy Hinson, Caroline Edwards, Murphy Hinson, Brandyn Wilson, Amanda and “Bubba” Dill, April and Scott Pintard, Melanie and Terry Hall, Brandy Hall, Buck Pintard Jason and Joanna McNeel, Judy Germany, Duke Edwards, Paula Edwards, Preston Edwards, Caroline Edwards, Murphy Hinson, Patrick and Melinda Biglane, and Karen and Pat Biglane Front—Murphy Hinson, Gayle Edwards, and Caroline Edwards; back—Stephen Edwards, Gary Edwards, Mary Margaret Alwood, GiGi Johnson, Jeannie Edwards, Mary Lees Wilson, Paula and Duke Edwards, and Preston Edwards Angie Weeks, James Allen and Johnnie Ann Hinson, Kole Junkin, Mandy Hinson, Stephanie Weeks, Lee Hinson, Caroline Edwards, Murphy Hinson, Bubba Hinson, Linda Middleton, and Chris Hinson

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THE social SCENE | Natchez, MS | Edwards and Hinson Engagement Celebration

16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24

Brandyn Wilson and Mandy Hinson Jamie Holloway and Emily Stevens Sarah Calhoun, Emily Stevens, and Mattie Geoghegan Stephen Edwards and Mary Margaret Alwood Kelley Barber and Braxton Fondren Caroline, Paula, and Duke Edwards Rhonda Kaiser, Judy Germany, and Angie Weeks Murphy Hinson, Caroline Edwards, and Jason and Joanna McNeel Chris and Lee Hinson with Toby and Sarah Maier

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THE social SCENE | Natchez, MS | Class of 2002 Reunion

Class of 2002 Reunion Members of the Class of 2002 from Cathedral High School in Natchez, Mississippi, celebrated their 10-year reunion during the Memorial Day weekend. The celebration held events for members and their families in downtown Natchez and on Lake St. John in Ferriday, Louisiana.

1 2 3 4 5 6

Natalie Wilson Anderson and Lindsey Smith Williams Paul Manning and Bert Goldman Christine Newman and Meggie Havard Thompson Kelly Graves Goeddertz and Caroline Shull Devereaux Larry Thomas, Wesley and Claire Waycaster Strebeck, and Ashley Goodloe Front—Abby Laird, Mary Margaret Alwood, Caroline Shull Devereaux, Christine Newman, Valerie Orcutt Antici, and Kelly Graves Goeddertz; middle—Natalie Wilson Anderson, Elizabeth Hammett Tanner, Lindsey Smith Williams, Claire Waycaster Strebeck, Nicole Falkenheiner, Meggie Havard Thompson, Larry Thomas; back—Jenny Obumseli, Bert Goldman, Paul Manning, Blake Mason, Cameron MiddletonWillard, Donyori Jackson, Tori Blackwell Gremillion, Kate Prescott Rollins, and Shauna White Powell Jenny Obumseli and Shauna White Powell

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Class of 2002 Reunion | Natchez, MS | THE social SCENE

8 9 10 11 12 12

13 14

Andrew and Regina Smith Pierce with Valerie Orcutt Antici Matt Devereaux, Katie Goldman, and Elizabeth Hammett Tanner Caroline Shull Devereaux, Tori Blackwell Gremillion, and Elizabeth Hammett Tanner Ashley Jennings, Regina Qua’dan, and Becky Bass Cameron Middleton-Willard, Abby Laird, and Caroline Shull Devereaux

Shauna White Powell, Nicole Falkenheiner, and Cameron Middleton-Willard Front—Regina Smith Pierce, Caroline Shull Devereaux, and Claire Waycaster Strebeck; back— Kelly Graves Goeddertz, Valerie Orcutt Antici, Abby Laird, Christine Newman, Natalie Wilson Anderson, Meggie Havard Thompson, Elizabeth Hammett Tanner, Lindsey Smith Williams, and Cameron Middleton-Willard

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Southern Sampler

by Alma M. Womack

Sundry Reflections: Sofas, Crops, Turtles, and Patriotism

his is how stupid I am. I need a new sofa for the playroom; for the one there now was purchased in 1971, the very first piece of furniture bought for the house that I am still living in. This sofa has been recovered several times, had two or three slipcovers made for it, and had pillows re-stuffed, etc., over the last 40 years. The frame is still in good shape although the bottom pillows probably need to be replaced. The main problem with this sofa is that it is too low for a body that has also had

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forty years placed on it since 1971. How the sofa has kept getting lower through the years is a mystery, but it is to the point where it is uncomfortable to exit the thing. My stupidity revolves around the fact that, even though I know a new sofa needs to be purchased, I cannot make myself make that purchase. This tug of war has gone on in my mind for the last three years: replace the sofa with something higher from the floor, or figure out a way to make the old one higher. New legs would mean a recovering since the

current skirt would not cover higher legs, and the sofa with a short skirt would look ignorant sitting there. Do I want to invest more money in this old rascal, or would it be better to go to town and get a replacement? An empire could rise and fall before I quit dithering about this decision. The thing is this sofa has been here since day one. My children grew up sitting there; countless dogs and cats have been petted there; I have had many good naps on that sofa since it is eight feet long and I can stretch out without hitting the arms. I have received joyous news and hair-raising news sitting on that very sofa and, depending on the news, would bury my head under some of the pillows. Now, my little grandsons are taking their turns spilling their drinks where their mothers had similar accidents; and I just feel something akin to desertion to even want to get another sofa to replace this one that has the story of my married, mothered life woven into its very frame. Right now, I can put off the purchase until the fall because farmers always wait for some of the crop to be in before making major purchases. A sofa is not really a big deal anymore; and if I were not stupid, I could just go ahead and get something that I could get up from. But by using the old rule of â&#x20AC;&#x153;wait until harvest,â&#x20AC;? I can delay a decision that is worrying me no end. So, just how stupid am I. Speaking of harvest time, it would be nice to get a good soaking rain so that we will have something to harvest this fall. It looks like another dreadful, dry summer is coming and with it the worry about the crops and the effect that drought and heat will have on young plants as they load up with their harvestable fruits. Irrigation helps, but it is nothing compared to the nourishment from a good old Mother

Nature rain. Irrigation keeps things alive until the rain comes. And my friend Terry Rector, former county agent up in Warren County, says that irrigation is to be used before the crops get dry; it is wrong to wait to water after the soil has dried out. Most people will wait until the ground is dry and the plants wilting before they hook up their irrigation systems. I use Terry’s advice when watering the flowers by watering before they look sad and wilted, and it does keep them alive. One little rain will perk plants up more than three days of watering; why, I do not know. I am just thankful that we have access to enough water to keep things hydrated until the rains come back. There has been another title added to my long list of distinguished titles: I am now the Saver of Turtles. Turtles come from Tupelo Brake into the yard to lay their eggs every spring. All goes well until Rocco the Large spies them; then they become fair game for one of his play pretties. I have taken away a dozen or so turtles from him in the last couple of weeks to keep him from crunching up their shells and killing them. I just give them a fling into the lake and admonish them that they would do

better to go to the east bank where the dogs do not tread. The little ones must be hatching safely somewhere; for the brake is always full of the rascals, especially when I throw out a little catfish feed for the resident fish. If you can believe it, I have actually had people want to come and seine the lake for my turtles as if I would let friends be shipped to some plain old turtle pond somewhere. They are fine where they are if they will just stay in the water. Woodrow, Drew, and I like them; and I’m sure that Jay will, too, when he’s old enough to know what a turtle is. My boys have to be entertained; and if the turtles do that, they will remain protected. This article is for July, so let me get on my soapbox and remind every one of you readers what an important holiday the Fourth of July is for Americans. Our freedom from the tyrannical rule of the English was declared on this day, and it marked the beginning of the most remarkable country in the history of the western world. The last few years have seen our country run down, degraded, insulted, and shamed by the very leaders who should be singing the praises of this great country. People are

discouraged at the ever present condemnation of a free, generous people, much as they were decades ago when Ronald Reagan came along. He loved America and the goodness that it stood for, and he communicated that love and pride to people across the nation. We must carry on his love of country, and do our part to see that America is restored to its rightful place of world leadership in so many areas. As America goes, so goes the world. If you don’t believe me, take a look at Europe. A weakened America has a ripple effect across the economies of all nations. We must just remember that all is not lost. We can—and will—restore our country so that not only can we be proud once again of our heritage but also we can pass on an economic prosperity and pride of country to the generations who come after us. Have a safe and happy Independence from England Day, and cherish the freedoms that we still have.

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JULY up

& coming! Premier Art OrganizationS

Vicksburg Art Association Members left to right—Sally Forrest, Jamie Coon, Jodi Permenter, Mary Alice Costley, Jordan Amborn, and Wayne Forrest at Attic Gallery in Vicksburg, Mississippi

The Vicksburg Art Association is an organization that has promoted and celebrated the local arts and its artisans for more than 40 years, and is a central resource for the entire creative community of Vicksburg. The VAA is fortunate to have as its headquarters one of Vicksburg’s first firehouses. This building has been designated as a Mississippi Landmark by the Department of Archives and History. The Old Constitution Firehouse is believed by the Archives and History Department to be the most intact Victorian fire station in the state. It was built in 1870 as the second house for the city’s first volunteer fire company and later housed the first paid company. The building retains the central stall, barracks room, cupola, and bell which was used to call the volunteers. The presence of the fire station made the Openwood - Main Street area one of the most desirable residential districts in Vicksburg before 1876. ArtsNatchez, located on Main Street in downtown Natchez, Mississippi, is a nonprofit, membership organization whose purpose is to promote the arts in the greater Natchez area and is managed by a board of directors. Part of ArtsNatchez’s mission is to operate a gallery for local artists. The organization and gallery are run by various volunteer committees composed of patron members and Page 72 { July 2012 { Bluffs & Bayous

participating artists that take on everything from community outreach to facilities maintenance. www.artsnatchez.com

Natchez Art Association is a non-profit art organization in Natchez, Mississippi, that provides opportunities for its members, students, emerging and established artists, art lovers, and the community at large through programs, instruction, demonstrations, mentoring, scholarships, networking, exhibitions and sales in order to stimulate community interest and make art accessible and to enrich and engage individuals in the creation and appreciation of art. www.natchezartassociation.org The Brookhaven Trust, founded in 1991 and supported by community members, is a force behind the endurance of Brookhaven, Mississippi’s cultural heritage. In 1997, the Brookhaven Arts Council was formed, a division of the

Brookhaven Trust, to provide the community with outstanding art exhibits, musical and theatrical performances and story-telling, rarely offered to a community of Brookhaven’s size. American Realism: A Tradition, a rare art exhibit featuring the works of Andrew Wyeth, is an example of the caliber of programs being presented by the Arts Council. While these endeavors are costly, they are usually provided free of charge to the community. The Arts Council continues its efforts with the annual visit of the Missoula Children’s Theatre, which offers community children an opportunity to work with gifted actors and directors for a week. At the end, they present a children’s play starring local Brookhaven talent. Music is a gift to all, enriching lives daily; but rare is the opportunity to experience the Mississippi Symphony Chamber Orchestra or the Capitol Brass live and at no cost to the public. The Brookhaven Arts Council makes these and so many other cultural events available on a regular basis. www.brookhaventrust.org

Brookhaven Haven Theatre www.haventheatre.org The Copiah-Lincoln Community Arts Series, hosted by Copiah-Lincoln Community College in Wesson, Mississippi, a small community eight miles north of Brookhaven, is a privately endowed community organization that through community and corporate contributions is able to provide Brookhaven and surrounding communities with an outstanding selection of cultural and musical productions, many of which are presented by nationally known and revered artists. www.colin.edu/community

Premier Art OrganizationS up McComb, Mississippi, Arts & Culture • Pike County Arts Association • Southwest Mississippi Art Guild

of Supervisors, U.S. Department of Education, and the National Endowment for the Arts. Additionally, the Council’s programs and services are supported by private foundations, corporate donors, its volunteer board of directors, and individuals committed to cultural development in the city. www.jacksonartscouncil.org

• Gulf South Gallery – pottery, paintings, and jewelry by Mississippi artists and craftsmen

• Japonica Gallery – modern art gallery featuring works from area artists including photography and pottery www.mccombmainstreet.com Greater Jackson Arts Council is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) charitable organization that works in public/private partnership with the City of Jackson, Mississippi, and the Jackson Convention & Visitors Bureau. This agency also receives public funding from the Mississippi Arts Commission, Hinds County Board

The Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge is a catalyst for the arts—providing arts education, jobs, programs, and events in and around Baton Rouge, Louisiana—while working to create a better place to live. River City Jazz Masters is a collaboration with the River City Jazz Coalition, featuring worldclass jazz performances in downtown Baton Rouge. The Debbie Allen Dance Residencie gives Baton Rouge dancers an opportunity to shine! For the fourth consecutive year, Debbie Allen brings her skill and famed choreography to the Baton Rouge community. FestForAll, a Baton Rouge tradition, is an artfully fun and family friendly art festival that provides an exciting art-buying opportunity! Celebrate the arts while shopping the original artwork of over 100 local and

& coming! JULY

national juried artists. The festival features an exceptional representation of fine arts and crafts along with artist demonstrations, kids’ art activities in Children’s Village, live music from blues to classical, and a variety of Louisiana cuisine. Arts Education provides arts instruction in the schools and arts education residencies. The Community School for the Arts offers arts activities to children on weekends and during school holidays at the Shaw Center for the Arts as well as arts activities for children, teens, and adults throughout the year. Laurel Street Palooza is an evening of live music, tasty food, and a silent auction of original artwork and great finds. Sunday in the Park hosts free music concerts that take place outside the Shaw Center for the Arts every spring and fall. The Community Gallery offers ongoing exhibitions featuring local and regional artists. The Baton Rouge Arts Market is a bustling, open-air marketplace that provides artists direct sales opportunities and encourages quality craftsmanship and creativity. www.artsbr.org St. Francisville, Louisiana: Since 1976, Harrington Gallery with its studio has been located at 9907 Royal Street in the heart of the historical district. Harrington Gallery and Herschel Harrington have become an international destination for art enthusiasts and travelers alike. At Backwood’s Gallery on Ferdinand Street, Joe Savell is usually creating another of his paintings. Other local artists’ works also are on display here.

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JULY up

& coming!

Through December 1 The Art of Eugene Martin: A Great Concept Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art Biloxi, MS Tues. - Sat. / 10 am - 5 pm curatorofcollections@georgeohr.org www.georgeohr.org

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

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up & coming! JULY Through November 24 Trailer McQuilkin: An Uncommon Beauty Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art Biloxi, MS Tues. - Sat. / 10:00 am - 5:00 pm 228-374-5547 curatorofcollections@georgeohr.org www.georgeohr.org Through August 26 Pieces & Strings: MS Cultural Crossroads 24th Annual Quilt Contest & Exhibition Mississippi Museum of Art Jackson, MS Public Corridor / Free 201 East Pascagoula Street www.msmuseumart.org

Through July 15 Andrew Bucci & Samuel Marshall Gore Mississippi Museum of Art Jackson, MS Public Corridor / Free 201 East Pascagoula Street www.msmuseumart.org Through July 4 Independence Weekend: Red, White & Blues Vicksburg, MS July 1 Subway Revue Band 4:00 pm / Ameristar’s Bottleneck Blues Bar Free 601-638-1000 Ameristar.com/Vicksburg July 1 - 3, 6 - 11, 13 - 17, 20 - 24 & 27 - 31 Vicksburg National Military Park Living History Vicksburg, MS 9:00 am - 4:00 pm; $8/car 601-636-0583 tim_kavanaugh@nps.gov Bluffs & Bayous { July 2012 { Page 75

JULY up

& coming!

July 3 Music in the City Mississippi Museum of Art Jackson, MS Trustmark Grand Hall 5:15 pm / Hors d’oeuvres & Cash Bar 5:45 pm / Program Free 201 East Pascagoula Street www.msmuseumart.org July 4 False River Boat Parade False River Jarreau, LA 1:00 pm 225-202-1041 brandenbarker@yahoo.com July 4 Independence Day Fireworks Celebration Vicksburg, MS 7:00 pm / Compositionz Band www.downtownvicksburg.org July 4 Fireworks on the Mississippi Natchez Bluff Natchez, MS 9:00 pm / Free July 5 Human Figure Drawing Session Natchez Art Association ArtsNatchez Gallery Natchez, MS 6:00 - 9:00 pm / $30 601-870-7717 skysetter@skysetter.com July 5, 12, 19, 26 McComb Farmers Market Depot Garage McComb, MS Railroad Boulevard 8:00 am - 1:00 pm July 5 - 8 37th Annual Vicksburg Homecoming Vicksburg, MS Dinner & Dance / $30 601-634-0163 vicksburghomecoming@att.net

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July 7 Craftsmen’s Guild of Mississippi Prepare to Qualify Workshop Ridgeland, MS 10:00 - 11:30 am MS Craft Center / Free 950 Rice Road 601-856-7546 www.mscrafts.org July 7 An Enslaved Life Audubon State Historic Site St. Francisville, LA 10:00 am - 4:00 pm 888-677-2838 July 7, 11, 18, 21, 25, 28 Vicksburg Farmer’s Market Vicksburg, MS Corner of Jackson & Washington Streets Sat. 8:00 am - 11:00 am Wed. 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm 601-634-4527 www.downtownvicksburg.org July 8 Summertime Blues Adib Sabir & Deep Blues Band Vicksburg, MS Ameristar’s Bottleneck Blues Bar 4:00 pm / Free Admission July 8 In the Footsteps of Audubon Audubon State Historic Site St. Francisville, LA 10:00 am - 2:00 pm 888-677-2838 July 9 - 12 4-Day Drawing Workshop Southern Cultural Heritage Foundation Vicksburg, MS $180 members / $190 non-members 1302 Adams Street www.southernculture.org July 9 - 13 Summer Art Workshop Art at Heart Vicksburg, MS 7 yrs. and older / 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm 1915-D Mission 66 601-415-9592 www.artheart.webs.com

up & coming! JULY July 9 - 13 Junior Ranger Camp Melrose Natchez, MS 8 - 12 yrs. / 9:00 am - 2:00 pm Melissa Tynes 601-446-5790 July 9 - 13 Kids Outdoor Adventure Camp Everyday Adventure Natchez, MS 9:00 am - 3:30 pm / $275 386-527-8337 July 9 - 20 Brookhaven Drama Camp Haven Theatre Brookhaven, MS Grades 1 - 7 9:00 am - Noon / $175 www.haventheatre.org July 10 VTEX: Vicksburg Technology Engineering Expo Vicksburg, MS 9:00 am - 4:00 pm 1600 Mulberry Street 866-822-6338 www.vicksburgevents.com July 10 Dreaming Big @ Library LEARN ABOUT SNAKES! With Terry Vandeventer Vidalia & Ferriday, LA 10:15 am / Vidalia Library 2:00 pm / Ferriday Library www.concordia.lib.la.us July 10, 17, 20 Hoot & Holler Mississippi Museum of Art Jackson, MS Ages 5 - 7 / $45 Bring towel and change of clothes. 201 East Pascagoula Street www.msmuseumart.org July 11 Les Contes dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Hoffmann Metropolitan Opera @ Tinseltown Movie Theatre Pearl, MS 6:30 pm 601-936-5856 www.Fandango.com Bluffs & Bayous { July 2012 { Page 77

JULY up

& coming!

July 11, 18, 25 & Aug. 1 Summer Sounds @ St. James St. James Episcopal Church Baton Rouge, LA 7:00 pm $10 / College Free w/ ID 208 Fourth Street 225-387-5141 www.stjamesbr.org July 11 - 13 Civil War Adventure Camp Historic Jefferson College Washington, MS 9:00 am - Noon / $25 www.mdah.state.ms.us July 11 - 15 Summer Art Camp Natchez Art Association Natchez, MS 10:00 am - 2:00 pm Loraine Griffin 601-807-3290

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July 12 - 13 12 / Digging Deep: Exploring Science & Language Arts & Visual Arts 13 / Teacher Workshop / To Paint & Pray: The Art & Life of William R. Hollingsworth, Jr. Mississippi Museum of Art Jackson, MS 9:00 am - 3:30 pm $35 members / $40 non-members 201 East Pascagoula Street www.msmuseumart.org July 13 - 14, 20 - 21, 27 - 28 Gold in the Hills Vicksburg, MS 7:30 pm Parkside Playhouse 601-636-0471 www.vicksburgtheatreguild.com

July 14 Civil War Homefront Reenactment Oakley Plantation St. Francisville, LA 888-677-2838 July 14 Second Saturday in Downtown Natchez, MS Historic downtown 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm July 14 EXPLORE! Historic Jefferson College Washington, MS 6 - 8 yrs. / 10:00 - 11:30 am 9 - 12 yrs. / 2:00 - 3:30 pm $10 601-442-2901 www.mdah.state.ms.us

up & coming! JULY July 14 Hollywood in Natchez—A Civil War Series The Adventures of Huck Finn Natchez, MS Natchez Convention and Visitors Bureau 4:00 pm / Free 601-446-1208 NLCC@colin.edu July 14 Community Yard Sale McComb, MS Pike County Livestock & Fair 3157 Wardlaw Road 8:00 am - 2:00 pm / Free July 14 9th Annual Standing Ovation Awards Gala Natchez Little Theatre Natchez, MS 6:00 pm / $20 319 Linton Avenue www.natchezlittletheatre.org July 14 - August 12 Moodle 4 Google Mississippi Exhibition Trustmark Grand Hall Mississippi Museum of Art Jackson, MS Free 201 East Pascagoula Street www.msmuseumart.org July 15 Heritage Music Series: David Dunavent & EVOL LOVE Vicksburg, MS Ameristar’s Bottleneck Blues Bar 4:00 pm / Free July 15 - 21 Tara Wildlife Youth Camp Vicksburg, MS Boys 9 - 16 yrs. / $600 6791 Eagle Lake Shore Road Mark Bowen 601-279-4261 www.tarawildlife.com/camps July 16 Beers & Cheers BeerTasting Baton Rouge, LA 6:00 - 8:00 pm / $10 Marsala Beverage Event Pavilion 825 Stone Avenue

July 16 - 17 Bed & Breakfast Ass. of MS Conference Old Capitol Inn Jackson, MS Speakers/Tours 601-956-0084 http://www.missbab.com/ manager@missbab.com July 16 - 20 Junior Ranger Camp Vicksburg National Military Park Vicksburg, MS 9:00 am - 1:00 pm Old Superintendent’s Quarters 601-636-0583 www.nps.gov/vick/forkids July 18 Lucia di Lammermoor Metropolitan Opera @ Tinseltown Movie Theatre Pearl, MS 6:30 pm 601-936-5856 www.Fandango.com July 18 & 25 Media Editing with Stephen Collins Ferriday Library Ferriday, LA 3:00 pm / Free www.concordia.lib.la.us July 19 - 20 The Little Mermaid Haven Theatre Brookhaven, MS 6:30 pm / $5 www.haventheatre.org July 19 & 26 Mark Twain at the Library with Georgiann Potts Vidalia Library Vidalia, LA 6:00 pm / Free www.concordia.lib.la.us July 21 Community Market Parker Park St. Francisville, LA 9:00 am - 1:00 pm

July 22 Heritage Music Series Leaf River Blues with “Fingers” Taylor Vicksburg, MS 4:00 pm / Free Ameristar’s Bottleneck Blues Bar July 24 - 27 Naturalist Camp Historic Jefferson College Washington, MS 9:00 am - Noon / $25 601-442-2901 July 24 Jellies & Jam Workshop Canning with William Furlong Southern Cultural Heritage Foundation Vicksburg, MS 1302 Adams Street 601-631-2997 info@southernculture.org July 25 Der Rosenkavalier Metropolitan Opera @ Tinseltown Movie Theatre Pearl, MS 6:30 pm 601-936-5856 www.Fandango.com July 25 - 29 Summer Art Camp Natchez Art Association Natchez, MS 10:00 am - 2:00 pm Loraine Griffin 601-807-3290 July 27 - 28 Hummingbird Celebration Downtown St. Francisville, LA 800-488-6502 www.stfrancisvillefestivals.com Bluffs & Bayous { July 2012 { Page 79

JULY up

& coming!

July 27 - 29 Natchez Food & Wine Festival Natchez, MS July 27 “Tastings Along the River” Natchez Community Center 6:30 pm / $65 @ door July 28 “Biscuits, Beignets & Breakfast” Natchez Coffee 8:00 - 11:00 am / $17 “Wine & Cheese Tasting” The Castle @ Dunleith 1:30 pm / $45 “Brews Blues & Burgers” Bowie’s Tavern 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm / $35 “An Invitation to the Natchez Table” Stanton Hall, Monmouth, BriarVue & D’Evereux 6:30 pm / $85 July 29 “Champagne Jazz Brunch” The Carriage House Restaurant 11:00 am & 12:30 pm seatings / $50 www.natchezfoodandwinefest.com

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July 28 Warren County Golf Championship Vicksburg, MS $100 Hole Sponsorship Cindy.cmcarley@mchscares.org July 29 Heritage Music Series: Bill “Howl-N-Madd” Perry Vicksburg, MS Ameristar’s Bottleneck Blues Bar 4:00 pm / Free July 31 Hank Jones Third Annual Memorial Concert Coral Room Vicksburg, MS 801 Clay Street 7:00 pm / Free Admission / Cash Bar www.vicksburgheritage.com Be sure to confirm details of the events should changes have occurred since events were submitted.

Trinity Park Inauguration | Brookhaven, MS | THE social SCENE

Trinity Park Inauguration The new Trinity Park held its inauguration celebration recently in Brookhaven, Mississippi. Members of the Trinity Episcopal Church were on hand to take part in the event.

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Bill Perkins and Patty Hollingsworth Carol and Reverend Gene Bennett Sloan and Emmie Smith Carol Edward Urban and Bill Perkins Barbara Davis, Peter Mullikin, and Marsha Wilmerding Frontâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Tindle Hall, Madeline Hall, and Val Hall; backâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Dr. Jim Hall, Sam Hall, and Jason Hall Marianna Jeppe, Sloan Smith, and Melissa Leggett Norma Hill, Kay Carner and Dr. David Carner Phyllis Spearman with Caroline and Pam Peyton

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Lillie Lovette Receives Arts and Humanities Award

Mississippi First Lady Deborah Bryant and Lillie Lovette

he Mississippi Commission for Volunteer Service in coordination with the Office of the Governor and First Lady Deborah Bryant, Honorary Chair of the MCVS Board of Commissioners, announced this past spring the 2012 Governor’s Initiative for Volunteer Excellence (GIVE) Award winners. On April 16, 2012, all were toasted at an event held at the Mississippi Museum of Art. Since July is the Arts Issue of Bluffs & Bayous, we would like to recognize Lillie Lovette of Edwards, Mississippi, recipient of the Outstanding Achievement in the Arts and Humanities Award. After early retirement from teaching at Holmes Community College, Lovette has spent over 4000 hours in volunteer service with the Mississippi Humanities Council, principally working in many and varied capacities with the MHC-sponsored Smithsonian Traveling Exhibits program Museum on Main Street, a project designed to “bring the Smithsonian to the people” of smaller-town America. Since 2001, Mississippi cities have hosted six of these traveling exhibits; and Lovette has been hands-on involved with each. In addition to her love of southern history, women’s rights, social justice, and world travel, Lovette took on a specific Smithsonian exhibit due to personal interest. Because she grew up in D’Lo, the small town which per capita sent more men to World War II than any other in the United States, the WWII exhibit “Produce for Victory,” a display of posters rallying the home front to greater productivity during WWII, was close to her heart. Although Lovette is an avid traveler, having visited all seven continents, she cites “home” as her favorite place. This love of home shows in her dedication to the promotion of humanities in Mississippi. Congratulations and thank you, Lillie Lovette! Page 82 { July 2012 { Bluffs & Bayous

INDIVIDUAL RECIPIENTS Elbert Hilliard (Madison) The Marsha Meeks Kelly Award for Lifetime Achievement in Volunteer Service Dr. Giovina Chinchar (Jackson) Outstanding Humanitarian Service Elizabeth Coleman (Jackson) Outstanding Achievement by a Volunteer Management Professional Callie Crider (Hattiesburg) Outstanding Service by a Youth Geraldine C. Grammer (Shelby) Outstanding Achievement in Community Revitalization Preston Hays (Jackson) Outstanding Achievement in Educational Innovation Lillie Lovette (Edwards) Outstanding Achievement in the Arts & Humanities Rosie Nelson (Oxford) Outstanding Service by a National Service Participant Marshall Ramsey (Madison) Outstanding Service by a Media Personality Pauline Redmond (Columbus) Outstanding Service in Disaster Relief Detrater Roberts (Clinton) Outstanding Achievement in Healthy Community Initiatives Delmar P. Robinson (Biloxi) Outstanding Achievement in Sustainable Community Solutions ORGANIZATIONAL RECIPIENTS Alexander’s Photography (Biloxi) Outstanding Volunteer Service by a Business Tippah County Good Samaritan Center (Ripley) Outstanding Achievement by a Faith-Based Organization HONORABLE MENTIONS & Organizations They Serve Arline Baker (Meridian) ~ City of Meridian RSVP Jerald Ball (Whitfield) ~ MS State Hospital James W. Hill, Sr. (Monticello) ~ Habitat for Humanity Teresa Hill (Terry) ~ Epilepsy Foundation of MS Brenda and Ronnie Luther (Holly Springs) ~ Clydesdale Christmas Store Richard Wayne Parker (Jackson) ~ LifeShare Foundation Rotary District 6820 (Winona) ~ MS Children’s Museum Sue Tolbert (Vicksburg) ~ Salvation Army Disaster Response Mike Wheatley (Pascagoula) ~ Jackson County CASA

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