Bluffs & Bayous March 2015 by Bluffs & Bayous Magazine

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FROM THE EDITOR

he Historic Natchez Tableaux has been a major part of my life growing up in this historic town; and with two sets of Guido sisters involved as well, we participated in every tableau. My sister Aimee and I have raised flags on Ellicott’s Hill, watched anxiously on the auditorium steps as little Maypolers and Placard Bearers, hop-scotched in the “Picnic” at Concord, danced in the big “Maypole” and “Polka,” and served in the “Confederate Farewell” as maids and one of us as Queen. Our cousins Megan and Kari Guido’s roles have been just as varied and numerous as ours. They have Maypoled, Polka-ed, Soiree-ed, and CanCanned. They have been Royal Pages, Placard Bearers, and one has been Queen. In the spring of 2006, Megan served as the Natchez Garden Club’s Queen with sophistication and grace. It was an honor to see her reign over the Tableaux and represent our family in such a unique way. Then, the very next year, my sister, Aimee, took her turn wearing the crown as NGC’s Queen. It was an experience of a lifetime for our entire family, and one that I will remember for years to come. We were able to share each night together, since I served on her Royal Court in dresses hand-made by our mom, Suzanne, with the help of Kathleen Taunton. Since Aimee’s dress was made from the remnants of my mother’s wedding gown, it holds a special place in this memory for us and is neatly tucked away for future use. Growing up in a town with such an exceptional tradition has taught not only me but also my sister and cousins how to respect and appreciate our hometown. It is a place that we would never trade, and I certainly would not have wanted to share each year in the Tableaux with anyone else besides them in our life along and beyond the Mississippi.

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PUBLISHER Cheryl Foggo Rinehart M A N A G I N G E D I T O R CONSULTING EDITOR Jennie Guido Jean Nosser Biglane GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Jan Ratcliff Anita Schilling STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS Aimee Guido Tim McCary Van O’Gwin Elise D. Parker Cheryl Rinehart Bill Perkins Lisa Adams Whittington SOCIAL MEDIA & EVENTS MANAGER Anne Elise Rinehart SALES STAFF Cheryl Rinehart Jennie Guido JoAnna Sproles Donna Sessions CONTRIBUTORS Lucien C. “Sam” Gwin Dr. Gary R. Bachman Becky Junkin Ross McGehee Alma Womack

Cheryl Rinehart

Jean Biglane

Anne Elise Rinehart

Dr. Gary R. Bachman

Jennie Guido

Jan Ratcliff

Aimee Guido

Anita Schilling

Van O’Gwin

Tim McCary

Donna Sessions

JoAnna Sproles

Elise D. Parker

Lucien C. “Sam” Gwin

Becky Junkin

Ross McGehee

Alma Womack

Bluffs & Bayous is published monthly to promote the greater Southern area of Louisiana and Mississippi in an informative and positive manner. We welcome contributions of articles and photos; however, they will be subject to editing and availability of space and subject matter. Photographs, comments, questions, subscription requests and ad placement inquiries are invited! Return envelopes and postage must accompany all materials submitted if a return is requested. No portion of this publication may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. The opinions expressed in Bluffs & Bayous are those of the authors or columnists and do 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 bluf fsmag@gmail.com | bluf fs.editor@gmail.com bbupandcoming@gmail.com www.bluf fsbayous.com

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March 2015

FEATURES

An Act of Balance: The New Historic Natchez Tableaux pages 34-37 Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s All in the Details pages 40-43 Angelic Design pages 44-47 The Spring Cleaning Q&A with Declutter by Diane pages 49-51 Page 8 { March 2015 { Bluffs & Bayous

ON THE OVER Fayla Guedon and Kristin Jordan, the two chairs of the Historic Natchez Tableaux, along with the vision and guidance of Greg Iles, New York Times Bestselling Author, are proud to present a new production to tell the history of Natchez before, during, and after the war between the states. Story on pages 34-37. Photo by Jennie Guido. Artistic Design by T.G. McCary

March 2015

FAVO R I T E S All Outdoors UFO?...........................................................................................................................10

Events March Premier Events...........................................................................................60-61 March Louisiana Up & Coming!...........................................................................62-66 March Mississippi Up & Coming!..........................................................................66-71

G’s Fare Eating Leaner........................................................................................................14-16

In the Garden The Perfect Shrub.................................................................................................28-29

Legal Notes Liability by Goose Peck..............................................................................................22

Southern Sampler

Eating Leaner pages 14-16

Adventures in “Bob War”......................................................................................72-73

The Social Scene NGC’s Victorian Luncheon........................................................................................11 Baby Shower for Tanner........................................................................................12-13 Surprise Party for O’Beirne..................................................................................18-19 Krewe of Mystique King Cake Party..........................................................................21 Birthday Party for Aldridge.......................................................................................23 Concordia Chamber of Commerce Awards Gala..................................................24-26 Natchez in Memphis Social...................................................................................30-31 Party Honors Pilgrimage Homeowners................................................................54-55 Shuffle to the Chefs...............................................................................................56-58 DAR Christmas Party.................................................................................................59

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ALL OUTDOORS

story by Ross McGehee

UFO?

ll right. I know that there will be some folks who will think there was funny stuff being smoked, and there may have been by some of the personnel. But I checked with “Doc.” He assured me that I heard it right, and I have no reason to doubt his word. It’s just not every day that you get a first person account of a UFO. It was late fall in 1973, and Doc had planted about 200 acres of cotton in a Claiborne County bottom and was picking an over-two-bale crop. Back in ’73, that was fabulous. Two of the old two-row pickers were harvesting the skip-row cotton, a local “peg-leg” named John Henry was stomping the trailers, onlookers were hanging around admiring the crop, and Doc and Snake were pulling trailers. I should probably mention that “stomping a trailer” consisted of just walking the cotton down after it was dumped into the wagons–very laborious and hot work. Cotton doesn’t compress naturally and doing it with your feet is only fun for a few minutes. Page 10 { March 2015 { Bluffs & Bayous

Anyway, it’s 8:30 at night; and the crew was waiting for the last picker to fill one more wagon. The rows were about a half-mile long, and a picker at that time ran at about 1.6 miles per hour. There is supposed to be a decimal point in there; it’s real slow. Suddenly, above the picker, about as big as a five-bale wagon and 100 yards up, there was a fluorescent green glow. It looked sorta like the moon, but it got closer and closer. Doc pointed it out to Snake and John Henry in the wagon; and as they watched, the glow just hovered. No blinking lights, no special effects, just a glow. Curtis, on the picker, drove under it and never saw it. If you’ve run an old picker, you will understand why; you’re too busy looking down. He turned the picker and made another pass from one end of the field to the other, and the glow was still there. How much time is that at 1.6 miles per hour times half a mile? Doc looked around, and Snake and John Henry were gone! Actually, they weren’t gone. They were just under the cotton wagon hiding from

the UFO. Like that was going to do them some good. The picker got back to the end; as it turned, the headlights hit the UFO; and it zipped away down the airstrip heading east. It was a long ride home to Natchez that night. Doc called the Adams County Sheriff when he got home to report it, and whoever answered the phone said that the Sheriff was over on the interstate “with the rest of those fools chasing a UFO. And what is the nature of your call?” “Oh, never mind.” The same night there was a similar sighting in Bude, so you have to wonder how fast this thing went. And it is not far from Doc’s place to the interstate, as the crow flies; so maybe they did see something. I promise you that the guys that got under the cotton wagon believed it. Doc believes it. If I’d a seen it, I reckon I’d believe it, too. Don’t know if I would have gotten under the cotton wagon though. Columnist Ross McGehee, a lifelong resident of Natchez, Mississippi, owns a diversified and far-flung farm operation.

THE social SCENE NATCHEZ, MS

NGCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Victorian Luncheon

n December 4, 2014, the Natchez Garden Club hosted its annual Victorian Luncheon, which raises money for the preservation of Magnolia Hall and the House on Ellicott Hill in Natchez, Mississippi. The event offered some of the finest lunch tastings including the clubâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s famous corn chowder to kick off the Christmas season. 1 2 3 4 5

Shannon Case, Liz Blalock, and April Bass Helen Smith and Connie Burns Elizabeth Street and Judy Bounds Carol Frank and Rose Borum Carol Frank, Bonnie Kirby, and Barbara Nell Lomasney

6 Donald McGlynn and Doug Mauro 7 Katie and Brian Kirchhoff with Beth Boggess 8 Kitty Bray, Lauren Burns, Lauren Middleton, and Jennifer Smith 9 Camille Tedder, Faye Lehmann, and Letta Crocker

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THE social SCENE FERRIDAY, LA

Baby Shower for Tanner

t the home of Sheila and Richard Alwood in Ferriday, Louisiana, a baby shower was held on December 14, 2014, honoring the upcoming birth of Elizabeth and Paul Tanner’s first child. Elizabeth, who is a Ferriday, Louisiana, native, ventured home to be with friends and family and to celebrate this joyous occasion.

2 1 Christine Newman, Abby Laird, Elizabeth Tanner, Mary-Margaret Edwards, Cameron Willard, and Tori Gremillion 2 Diana McIntosh and Julie Cole 3 Annie Edwards and Sheila Alwood 4 Sitting—Susan Hammett and Evie Martinez; standing—Lollie Hammett, Dot Lazarus, Elizabeth Tanner, and Ginny Martinez 5 Ginny Martinez, Ellen Tanner, Megan Tanner, and Katherine Tanner 6 Megan Tanner, Elizabeth Tanner, Katherine Tanner, and Ellen Tanner

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THE social SCENE

FERRIDAY, LA

7 Mary Margaret Prescott, Tori Gremillion, Elizabeth Tanner, Christine Newman, Abby Laird, Mary-Margaret Edwards, Lauren Middleton, and Cameron Willard 8 Dot Lazarus, Rose Jones, Lollie Hammett, and Alisha Jones 9 Annie Edwards, Tori Gremillion, Elizabeth Tanner, and Dorothy Chauvin

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G’S FARE

story by Becky Junkin photos by Michael Chapman and Jennie Guido

EATING LEANER

he theme of this month’s issue is “Get Up and Go.” Well, by this time of year, my get up and go already got up and went. However, it’s time to get back to exercising and healthy eating since swimsuit-shopping and shorts-wearing season is right around the corner. Natchez has so many different types of fitness programs; there is one for any age or fitness ability. Of course, exercise alone will not cause you to lose weight. The bottom line of weight loss is calories in and calories out. If you run three miles, go home, and fill up on sweets and junk food, you have probably canceled out the weight-loss factor of your exercise. Exercise is not just for weight loss; rather, it is for fitness from cardio activity, strength exercises, and stretching. Amanda Hudson, a StrongFirst certified kettlebell trainer in Natchez, Mississippi, has combined exercise with the right food choices and has published The Kettlebell Girl’s Guide to Healthy Page 14 { March 2015 { Bluffs & Bayous

Eating cookbook to help us all adopt a little leaner diet. Hudson shared, “With the help of twenty-two of my female kettlebell friends, we put together The Kettlebell Girl’s Guide to Healthy Eating. In this little book, you will meet some awesome women who have shared their easiest go-to recipes. Most of the recipes in the book have prep times of five to twenty minutes. Time is a luxury for most of us, so it is important to factor that in. Cooking your own freshly-prepared food is much more satisfying than prepackaged or drive-thru meals, and your body will thank you!” The cookbook can be found at lulu.com. The following recipes can all be found in this collection of recipes that helps to supplement all of the hard work of working out. So, make healthy food choices; get up and go; and you will find that you have more energy, sleep better, have clearer skin, and enjoy a general overall feeling of good health.

From the kitchen of Charlene Hess

FIESTA SALAD 1 pound ground turkey or venison 1 pack McCormickâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s taco seasoning 3 cups romaine lettuce, shredded 1/4 cup black beans, rinsed 1/2 cup tomatoes, diced 1/4 cup yellow corn, drained 1/2 avocado, diced Pace Picante Sauce Tortilla chips Brown the meat; add the seasoning packet; and follow the directions on the packet. Combine the lettuce, beans, tomatoes, corn, and avocado in a large bowl. Add the meat to the salad, and top with the picante sauce. Crumble five or six chips over the top.

BAKED CHICKEN AND ASPARAGUS CASSEROLE 1 can fat-free cream of broccoli soup 1 1/4 cup wild rice, cooked 24 asparagus spears 4 4-oz boneless, skinless chicken breasts 1 4-oz low-fat Monterey Jack cheese, shredded Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. In a bowl, whisk together soup and water according to the directions on the can. Spread the prepared rice in a nine-by-thirteen inch casserole dish. Arrange asparagus spears lengthwise atop the rice, and lay the chicken on top. Pour the soup mixture over the chicken and top with cheese. Cover with foil, and bake for forty minutes or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked.

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ALMOND BUTTER CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES 1 cup unsalted almond butter 3/4 cup sucanat 1 large egg 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon sea salt 3 ounces dark chocolate, broken into small pieces. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Stir together the first five ingredients until blended. Add in chocolate pieces. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto parchmentlined baking sheets. Bake for twelve to fifteen minutes, and cool on a wire rack.

From the kitchen of Courtney Elveston

CROCK POT COCOA CHIPOTLE SQUASH CHILI 1 pound grass-fed ground beef (or any meat of your choice) 2 15-ounce cans diced tomatoes 4 garlic gloves, minced 1 large onion, cut into chunks 1 cup mushrooms, sliced 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cut into chunks 1 tablespoon cocoa powder 1 tablespoon smoked paprika 2 tablespoons chili powder 1 tablespoon chipotle powder 1 tablespoon cinnamon 2 teaspoons cayenne pepper (or to desired heat) 1 1/2 teaspoons sea salt Mix the last seven ingredients together and set aside. Brown the beef and drain off half of the liquid. Add the garlic, spices, and seasonings; stir together. Place all ingredients into the slow cooker. The mixture will be thick, but do not add any liquid. Cook for four to six hours.

CHOCOLATE COCONUT â&#x20AC;&#x153;ICE CREAMâ&#x20AC;? 1/2 can coconut cream 2 large, ripe bananas 1 cup unsweetened almond milk 3-4 tablespoons Chia seeds 2-4 dates (optional) 1/3 cup egg white protein powder (optional) Blend all ingredients in a strong blender until smooth. Pour into small cups, and freeze to desired hardness. For faster freezing, use frozen bananas. You can also eat it right away as pudding. Becky Junkin, mother of four and grandmother of seven, is a lifelong Natchez resident, a retired elementary teacher of twenty-four years, and certified Pilates instructor.

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THE social SCENE NATCHEZ, MS

Surprise Party for O’Beirne

he family of Tommy O’Beirne held a surprise birthday party in honor of his seventy-fifth birthday on January 3, 2015, in downtown Natchez, Mississippi, at Pearl Street Pasta. O’Beirne’s wife, siblings, children, and grandchildren were all present to celebrate this milestone. 1 The O’Beirne family 2 Danny and Virginia O’Beirne 3 Meg O’Beirne Payment, Pokey O’Beirne, and Emily Payment 4 Front—Thomas O’Beirne; middle—Lilly Hlavac, James O’Beirne, and Emma O’Beirne; back—Tatum Brumfield, Cooper Brumfield, and Hayden Gardo 5 (L to R) Kevin Williams, Mary O’Beirne Williams, Noreen O’Beirne Bozeman, Margaret O’Beirne Williams, Virginia O’Beirne, Danny O’Beirne, James O’Beirne, Patsy O’Beirne Rogers, Johnny Williams, and Mandy Williams 6 Janelle O’Beirne Johnson with Walter and Jenny Morales 7 Front—Patsy O’Beirne Rogers, James O’Beirne, Danny O’Beirne, and Mary O’Beirne Williams; back—Noreen O’Beirne Bozeman, Tommy O’Beirne, and Margaret O’Beirne Williams

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THE social SCENE

NATCHEZ, MS

8 Mary Grace Eddington, Elena Eddington, Camp Hlavac, and Graham Hlavac 9 (L to R) Patrick O’Beirne, Jenny O’Beirne Morales, Tim Ryan, Pokey O’Beirne, Mary Jane Gaudet, Lisa O’Beirne Ryan, and Janelle O’Beirne Johnson

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

BROOKHAVEN, MISSISSIPPI

THE social SCENE BATON ROUGE, LA

Krewe of Mystiqueâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s King Cake Party

he Krewe of Mystique held its annual King Cake Party January 9, 2015, at the Crowne Plaza in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. A good time was had by all.

1 Robin Kennedy, Kris Cangelosi, Bonnie Minchew, Megan Kennedy, Troy Guidry, and Toni Guidry 2 Jackie Kreutzer, Eva Smil, Connie Wagner, Sally Hirschheim, Jackie Pourciau, Martha Oubre, Topper Johnson, Hazel Deloach, Marsha Sills, and Rhonda Bourgeois

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LEGAL NOTES

nimal issues are always of interest to me since I wrote and published Animal Law in Mississippi in 2007. One of the biggest issues for dog, cat, or animal owners is what the owner’s liability should be if the animal bites, scratches, kicks, or trips another person and causes an injury. At this moment, I have a pending case in a nearby county where my client was walking through his leased property checking deer stands in the fall when from out of nowhere ten dogs appeared and began to viciously attack him. He had no gun with him, and the dogs got him down twice on the ground. As he explained to me, if he had he been a child or an older man, he would have been killed. He was able to hold the dogs at bay for about thirty minutes with a pocketknife until he could call a friend and have him run the dogs off with a four-wheeler. The dogs happened to belong to an adjoining neighbor across the property line. Of course, the owner of the dogs has denied any liability and asserted the “first-bite rule.” In case you don’t know, people in Mississippi have assumed that before they can be liable for their dog’s bite the dog would have had to have bitten someone first; so they are technically on notice of the dog’s vicious propensities. The Mississippi Supreme Court, however, has now clarified the law on this issue. In a case just decided this past December, the court found there is really no “first-bite rule” in Mississippi. Rather, it found that if it is reasonable to assume your animal “may” have a propensity to bite, kick, trip, or cause injury to a person, then you should be subjected to liability. In the case of Olier vs. Bailey, it appears that Mrs. Olier and Mrs. Bailey “were” Page 22 { March 2015 { Bluffs & Bayous

story by Lucien C. Gwin III

good friends who enjoyed gardening together. There is some dispute over whether Mrs. Olier was invited to come to Mrs. Bailey’s home or if she just showed up. Mrs. Bailey, however, was the owner of a gaggle of geese. She had a sign saying “Beware of Geese;” however, she repeatedly testified that these particular geese had never attacked or shown any aggression toward anyone. She was apparently claiming the no-first-peck rule. Well you guessed it, Mrs. Olier, after being assured by Mrs. Bailey that it was safe, ventured out into the yard and was abruptly charged by a big goose who (and I quote) “pecked Mrs. Olier right in the crotch.” Mrs. Olier then backed away from the goose pecker, promptly fell, and broke her arm. A suit, of course, ensued; and the court was faced with the issue of “no prior known propensities for goose peck.” The court after a very lengthy discussion made the following findings: “... where an injury is the result of where an animal’s having behaved consistently with its general nature, it is irrelevant whether the particular animal had exhibited an unusually dangerous propensity previously, as its own inherent propensity precipitated the injury. ... Bailey understood that all of her geese were potentially aggressive. ... therefore, a jury could find that what happened to Olier was foreseeable to Bailey” (emphasis added). Let’s now apply the goose facts to the dog world. The magic word here is foreseeable. Is it foreseeable that certain breeds of dogs are aggressive, such as Pit Bulls,

Doberman Pinchers, German Shepherds, Rottweilers, or even Chihuahuas? What if your dog is of no particular breed but is big and barks at people? Or what if your dog is playful? Let’s take a horse. Almost all stallions bite when they are in heat; therefore, it is almost always predictable that they will become unmanageable. An animal that has young offspring can also engage in very protective behavior. What I think we are seeing is the evolution of animal law to a form of almost strict liability for animal owners. What this means is that if it is foreseeable that your animal, meaning dogs, cats, horses, pigs, goats, chickens, and, of course, geese could cause injury to a person on your premises and the such happens, then you may have to face a jury for damages. My Take I have witnessed some horrific injuries from animals, especially dogs. I actually think this new case is perhaps needed. Why should an animal owner get off scotfree because his or her dog has never bitten someone before? Yet the victim of the dog bite has to suffer with the consequences of the “first-bite rule.” I don’t think that was ever fair or just. Lucien C. “Sam” Gwin III was admitted to the Mississippi Bar in 1981 and has been practicing many aspects of the law at the firm of Gwin, Lewis, Punches & Kelley in Natchez, Mississippi, ever since.

THE social SCENE VIDALIA, LA

Birthday Party for Aldridge

addyBeth Wagoner Aldridge’s magical Frozen birthday celebration was held January 10, 2015, at Concordia Bank & Trust in Vidalia, Louisiana. The Frozen-themed, fourth birthday party was complete with a live appearance from Queen Elsa, played by Alexa Mallory, and included singing, story telling, and pin the nose on Olaf. Sherri Hodges made the cake, and all of the decorations were handmade by Courtney Aldridge, Milli Wagoner, Kenny Wagoner, Hillary Good, and Jonnie Aldridge.

1 Alexa Mallory and MaddyBeth Aldridge 2 Back—Leah Bella Hugg, Alexa Mallory, Annalise Cupit, Avah Everhart, Leon and Delilah Evans; middle—Chloe Firmin, MaddyBeth Aldridge, Cloie Young, Campbell Cate Mcdonald, Emerson Wagoner, and Coy Stevenson; front—Amlih Clifton and Sophie Jordan 3 Back—Amlih Clifton, Delilah Evans, Sophie Jordan, Leah Bella Hugg, Chloe Firmin, Sophia Waldrep, Annaelise Cupit, Breeanna Owens, and Campbell Cate McDonald; middle—Emerson Wagoner, MaddyBeth Aldridge, Cloie Young, and Kai Mizell; front—Leon Evans, Maddox Mizell, Cooper Tradewell, Bentley Gan, Coy Stevenson, Adeline Young, Loclyn Gann, and Ryleigh Cupit

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THE social SCENE VIDALIA, LA

Concordia Chamber of Commerce Awards Gala

n Thursday, January 29, 2015, at the Vidalia Convention Center on the Vidalia, Louisiana, riverfront, the Concordia Parish Chamber of Commerce held its annual awards gala, dinner, and cocktail hour. Members of the community came together to socialize and celebrate the best of the Concordia area.

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Hiram and Stacey Copeland Guy and Zelma Murray Sammy Porter and Chuck Caldwell Carla Jenkins, Laura Lucas, and Betty Jenkins Pat and Karen Biglane Donnie Holloway and Vicky Ratliff Bridget and Mitchell Chappell, David Kimbro, and Kari and Jeff Loy Sarah Calhoun, Lacey Middleton, Katie Roberts, and Emily Stevens Lee Hinson, Angie Weeks, Jeanie Ables, and Liz Walker Anne Westmoreland, Jeff Goeggle, George and Lynette Tanner, and Brannon Arthur

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THE social SCENE

VIDALIA, LA

11 Benny Jeansonne, Vicky Ratliff, and Dolly Smith 12 Jamie Wiley, Paula Savant, and Elizabeth McGlothin 13 Johnette Wilks with Bruce and Rachel Wiley 14 Caitlin Goodman, Haley Meng, and Will Carter 15 Key Smith with April and Buz Craft 16 Darla Wilkinson with Ricky and Una Knapp 17 John Reeves, Representative Andy Anders, and Nancy Anders 18 Lisa Marks, Anne Westmoreland, and Glenda Lewis 19 Fred Middleton, Trey and Rebecca Caldwell, Beaux and Beth Pilgrim, Brandi Boles, and Angela Yates 20 Rickey Hollins

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THE social SCENE VIDALIA, LA

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Sarah Carter Smith and Rene Adams Scoop and Catherine Murray Bill and Martha Salters Monelle Moseley and Lois Temple

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IN THE GARDEN

story and photos by Dr. Gary R. Bachman

Virginia sweetspire has multi-seasonal interest and is versatile, beautiful and low maintenance, making it the perfect shrub for many landscape uses.

The Perfect Shrub

f you’re like me and most other home gardeners, you want shrubs to have multi-seasonal interest and be versatile, beautiful, and low maintenance. This is no small list to consider when looking for shrubs at the garden center or nursery. I may know the ideal shrub that has all these traits and is also a Mississippi native. Virginia sweetspire is perfect for the shrub border or woodland setting. In fact, Virginia sweetspire was selected as a Mississippi Medallion winner for 2011. This Mississippi native shrub has an erect, densely-branched stem when grown in full sun and a looser, more open habit when grown in partial shade. The native Virginia sweetspire typically grows from three to four-feet tall and four to six-feet wide in landscape settings. You may have to prune it to keep the plant neat and tidy. Plant Virginia sweetspire in shrub borders or foundation plantings because the foliage will form a dense barrier. The foliage is dark green and changes to a brilliant red in the fall. Virginia sweetspire is evergreen most years in the coastal region and semi-evergreen to deciduous in northern Mississippi. In coastal counties, Virginia sweetspire holds its gorgeous red foliage well into the winter months depending on frosts and freezes. Plant in full sun to experience the best fall color production.

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The flowers are produced in groups on racemes that are up to six-inches long and resemble fireworks. Individual, star-like flowers are small and fragrant. The tiny flowers start to open from the base to the tip and have a prolonged bloom period. These flowers are a nice addition to the landscape when there are few shrubs and trees in bloom. Perform any pruning after flowering because the flowers are produced on the previous year’s stems. Two commonly available selections have a compact and uniform growth habit. Henry’s Garnet will grow to four-feet tall and spreads up to six-feet wide. Fall color is a brilliant garnet red, and the flowering racemes are much larger and longer than those on other species. Little Henry has a mounded and compact growth habit that is suitable for mass plantings. It requires little, if any, pruning to maintain shape. The summer foliage color is bright green, and fall colors include a nice combination of vivid reds and oranges. Sarah’s Eve is an interesting selection with flowers described as having a soft tinge of orangey-red on the stems. I have this selection growing in my garden and find it to be a fine landscape plant. Maybe it’s because my landscape is in the southern coastal zone, but I don’t really see the interesting coloration it is supposed to have.

There are no serious pests or diseases of Virginia sweetspire, which makes these shrubs wonderful, low-maintenance plants. It is also a good choice for protecting your landscape from deer if they cause problems in your area. Virginia sweetspire is described as tolerating wet soil; but for optimum growth, you should always plant in amended landscape soil that has good drainage. Fertilize in the spring and fall using a slowrelease product formulated for trees and shrubs. Virginia sweetspire is an understory plant in the wild and transplants well from container-grown stock. This shrub can have a clumping growth habit, and suckering from the roots can be useful for erosion control on sloped areas. Columnist Dr. Gary R. Bachman is an assistant extension professor of horticulture at Mississippi State Universityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Coastal Research and Extension Center in Biloxi, Mississippi.

Virginia sweetspire flowers are produced in groups on racemes that are up to six inches long. Individual, starlike flowers are small and fragrant and start to open from the base to the tip.

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THE social SCENE MEMPHIS, TN

Natchez in Memphis Social

ally and Lyman Aldrich and Linda and Donnie Harris hosted a â&#x20AC;&#x153;Natchez in Memphisâ&#x20AC;? party in 2006 and decided it was time to do it again. An invitation list of people connected to Natchez, Mississippi, and living in the Memphis, Tennessee, area was assembled; and the party was held at the Aldrich residence on Natchez Street in Collierville, Tennessee, on December 20, 2014.

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Charlotte Cavin and Jimmy Cavin Sue and Bob Land Vivian Johnson and Daven Aldrich Helmut Steinberg and Susanna Shea Billie Ann West Foster and Tommy West Mike Easley and Sarah Jordan Easley Chip Harris, Sally Aldrich, Linda Harris, and Lyman Aldrich 8 Lyman, Sally, Kathleen, and Daven Aldrich 9 Paul, Jessica, Linda, Susanna, and Peter Shea 10 Tommy West, Donnie Harris, Judy Griffin, and Linda Shea

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THE social SCENE

MEMPHIS, TN

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Trip and Margaret Monger Rick and Eden Allmand Clark Laura, Wade, and Katie West Cristina and John Speer David and Patricia Dunavant Greg and Leanne Meng Bill and Elizabeth Hagan Jim and Kim Robison Eustis and Edie Corrigan Jean Hicks Priester and Bill Priester Sherrill and Bob Land Matt and Shan Fite Linda Harris and Steve Gammill Billy and Pat Hall

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An Act of Balance:

The New Historic Natchez Tableaux

t is a Natchez, Mississippi, tradition that dates back to 1932; and for most locals, the Historic Natchez Tableaux has been synonymous with the spring season each and every year since. During this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Spring Pilgrimage, tourists and locals will be able to experience an improved production of the Tableaux that blends the traditional tableaux that so many remember with the history of enslaved persons throughout the area. With the help of Greg Iles, the Tableaux chairs of both the Natchez and Pilgrimage Garden Clubs, Kristin Jordan and Fayla Guedon, have restructured the Tableaux and introduced new scenes to help create a candid picture of Natchez before, during, and after the Civil War.

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Left—New York Times Bestselling Author Greg Iles draws from his childhood in Natchez, his experiences around the country, and his love of Mississippi to bring a balanced perspective to the Tableaux.

Iles explained how he came to work with the Tableaux this year. “My father created an extensive library and collection of Civil War history, and that’s one of the reasons I decided to work on this,” Iles shared. “I feel like he would have wanted me to do this.” Also, his daughter, Madeline Iles, has been selected as this year’s Pilgrimage Garden Club Queen; and it is a position that she did not want to take lightly. “Being a history major at Millsaps, Madeline is well aware of the true history in our area during the Civil War,” he said. “She didn’t want to just blindly accept this role unless it told the whole story. We talked about what we could do to bring life and meaning to the Tableaux; and after discussing our thoughts with Regina Charboneau and other members of the garden clubs, I found that they were on board and completely supportive with the idea of changing the Tableaux.” So, where do you start when you undertake, in a way, re-writing history? “I first went back and read Gone with the Wind,” Iles explained, “which is basically the basis for the ‘old’ pageant that people are familiar with; and I realized that we were only telling the first twenty-five percent of that story in our Tableaux. Our history we were presenting did not show the suffering that was happening or complexities of the situation in the South. That’s when I figured out there were two things that needed to be done: we had to acknowledge slavery and the southern defeat during the Civil War.” While it can be argued that the Tableaux has featured only a portion of its history in past productions, the improvements made

to this year’s show reflect a more comprehensive, authentic version of the history of Natchez during this period. “There have been many attempts in the past to ‘fix the pageant,’ and I applaud all of those hard-worked efforts,” Iles shared. “I tried to approach these changes in the point of view of the year we are living in now and what it is that the City of Natchez is trying to present to the world; and I found only one answer—the truth. The whole truth means including the African American community and sharing fifty percent of the story with them on stage. The burden for me was to alter one half of the ‘pageant’ to try and present this balanced perspective in a way that tourists would understand and get a sense of the truth of history.” With support from community members such as Alderman Tony Fields, Alvin Shelby and Lisa Johnson of Holy Family Catholic Church, and Lynn Beach Smith, this year’s director for the Tableaux, Iles, Guedon, and Jordan have been able to create a production that will not only tell the entire story but also leave the audience in awe of what they have watched unfold. “We could not have done this without the support of those people because, ultimately, what we want is the full and enthusiastic participation of the African American community, both garden clubs, and the independents in town,” Iles shared. “In the past what had always driven the ‘pageant’ and created participants was the involvement of the garden clubs and the inclusion of their members’ children. While keeping those traditions, we needed to transition to where everyone can see the much bigger picture and the ultimate goal of tourism in Natchez. Now, more than ever, tourism plays a larger role in the future of Natchez especially since the 1930s when the Tableaux and Pilgrimage were created. In order to maximize tourism locally, the Tableaux continuing on is a big piece to that puzzle.” Both chairs for the Tableaux shared their thoughts on merging the new scenes into the production. Guedon explained, “The Tableaux is a unique tradition that allows for storytelling, period costumes, and dancing to tell Natchez’s story. I believe that it means a lot to this community in terms of a way to share our history and to bring visitors from far and wide to our town.” Jordan added, “When I moved here in 2007, I was new to the entire Pilgrimage idea. Since then, I have been welcomed into this longtime Natchez tradition that now has become a staple in my family.” Both Guedon and Jordan’s children play major roles in the Tableaux; and because of their hard work and involvement, they will help to carry on the production for years to come.

“...we had to acknowledge slavery and the southern defeat during the Civil War.”

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Below—Kristin Jordan of the Natchez Garden Club has enjoyed becoming a part of this Natchez tradition since moving here in 2007. Right—Fayla Guedon of the Pilgrimage Garden Club believes that the Tableaux is a unique experience that everyone should enjoy this season.

However, in order for the reworking of the Tableaux to come full circle, participants of all ages had to change their mindset of what the actual roles mean and what they are portraying. “I had the chance to sit down with the members of the Royalty and the Court and explain to them what being a ‘Confederate General’ meant,” Iles said. “I told them about the group of students from Ole Miss who were enlisted into a group known as the ‘University Greys’ during the Civil War. These men went on to fight in the Battle at Gettysburg and not one of them survived, and these men were the same age as the Court members.” By making a link between the present day and the actual soldiers of the war, Iles created for the Court participants a sense of purpose that has not been a factor in past productions of the Tableaux. Another way to change the mindset of the participants was to alter some of the existing scenes to incorporate the new tone of the Tableaux. “Ann Gaude of the Middleton School of Dance jumped right into the action and changed the Soiree, which is one of the most popular tableaux, in a way that the high school dancers are noticing,” Iles explained. “She even has helped with other aspects of the Tableaux by bringing in new and fresh ideas.” In addition to the changes within existing scenes, new acts have been produced and included to present the life of African

Americans in Natchez at the time. With dramatic scenes featuring The Forks of the Road landmark, Iles believes that the audience will be stunned by what they learn. “You’re going to see a complete representation of the history of Natchez,” Iles said. “This is an emotional show with highs, lows, and a lot of truth about the American South. I feel that now the Tableaux is something that the entire town can be proud of, recommend to others, and look forward to supporting year after year. “Personally, I have been a part of everything from the Little Maypole to running the Confederate flag at the end of the ‘pageant;’ I was raised by parents who did not see race, and I am now writing novels about unsolved Civil Rights murders. That shows that, right here in our hometown, you can go from not fully understanding what the Tableaux means or what our history is to learning what the complexities are and trying to do something to educate and involve others. “How many towns have a show that can market and educate people about its heritage in which over 100 people participate for free? You can’t throw that away. That is something that has to be fixed rather than thrown out. The Tableaux is too valuable of a resource for Natchez.” Beginning Friday, March 6, at 8 pm, the Tableaux will run every Friday and Saturday night through Saturday, April 4, at the Natchez City Auditorium. For more information about this year’s Historic Natchez Tableaux and for tickets, visit www.shopnatchezpilgrimage.com or call (601)446-6631. Bluffs & Bayous { March 2015 { Page 37

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Sullivan worked tirelessly to complete her sister, Queen Rosalie XXXIII’s, dress for the Krewe of Phoenix’s Mardi Gras season.

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The details of the train of the Queen’s dress for Mardi Gras jump off of the fabric.

It’s All in the Details story by Jennie Guido n productions such as the Historic Natchez Tableaux and the Krewe of Phoenix’s Call Out Ball, the costumes take center stage for the audience and bring life to the stage. A Natchez-native now living in Destrehan, Louisiana, DeAnn Sullivan has played a major role in the costume design for the 2015 Pilgrimage Garden Club’s King and the Krewe of Phoenix’s Royalty. “About fifteen years ago, I bought my daughter a princess costume a little big so she could wear it for a while. I took it to a seamstress to take it in, and she charged fifteen dollars to sew a seam up the back. I mentioned to my mom that I could have done that if I had a sewing machine. She gave me a machine for Christmas that year, and I started by making baby and children’s blankets,” Sullivan remembers. “In 2003, my daughter started performing with the River Region Ballet Company; and I volunteered to help with costumes by moving and adding hooks and snaps. After a few years, I was asked to be the costume chairman for the ballet company.” By taking lessons from a local teacher, Paula Harding, Sullivan quickly became familiar with the ins and outs of sewing. “In 2010, I was asked to create a few outfits and the ball gown for Anna in the play The King and I. The next year, I was asked to be costume chair for the River Region Drama Guild,” Sullivan shared. “Over the years, I discovered by creating different clothes, costumes, prom dresses, dance outfits, and crafts, as well as altering many different types of outfits, that I prefer making that one-of-a-kind, custom costume.”

This year alone Sullivan has worked diligently to provide costumes for two of Natchez’s major productions: the Call Out Ball for the dukes and duchesses of Mardi Gras and the Historic Natchez Tableaux. “When Lisa Mayer, my sister and Rosalie for this year’s Krewe of Phoenix, called in May of 2014 and told me that her son, Tyler, was asked to be King of the Natchez Pilgrimage and she would like me to make his General’s uniform, I was honored,” Sullivan said. “My fondest memories of the Tableaux are admiring the Queens when my mother styled their hair and performing in the John James Audubon ballet myself. Over the years, I have enjoyed watching Tyler grow up, performing in the many different roles he has had; and now, he is going to be King. Making him a custom-made uniform was something I could do for him. “Later in June, Lisa called to tell me she accepted the invitation to be Rosalie XXXIII; and she would like me to design and create her outfit. Words cannot express how I felt. I remember as a teenager being able to watch the first group of Dukes and Duchesses being presented, and my big sister was up there as a Duchess. Now, she was going to be Queen; and she wanted me to create her outfit, as well as her Pages’ outfits. “With the amount of work these projects would entail, I asked my friend Shelley Keller to help by utilizing her artistic and beading skills. Our process began. We had a game plan, material was purchased, and I was researching like crazy. One day during class, Lisa called and said her King, Billy Ulmer, would like for me to create the outfits for him and his Pages, too. My heart was full. Bluffs & Bayous { March 2015 { Page 41

Above—No one was left out when it came to the costumes for Natchez’s Mardi Gras royalty. Left—By creating the general’s uniform for her nephew Tyler Jordan, Sullivan is able to play a major role in this special experience for him.

Lisa’s faith in me was such a boost of confidence in my abilities and encourages me to continue challenging myself.” So, what helped Sullivan to create all of these amazing costumes? She shared, “I am a visual person; and I am always observing everything around me, especially shapes, with a different perspective. Any and everything can be an inspiration. Fashion influences me but not in the way most people think. I am always watching how things flow when they move and how one little change can affect the flow. A costume can be beautiful; but if the client can’t move correctly, it is worthless.” When creating the costume for her sister, Lisa, to wear as Rosalie, there were many factors to take into account. Sullivan said, “I wanted to design a creation that was uniquely Lisa. I like the costumes I make to have Page 42 { March 2015 { Bluffs & Bayous

a different twist from the conventional costumes. I began researching previous Mardi Gras Queens to see what their dresses, trains, and mantles looked like. Since this was my first time to make a mantle or train, I contacted people I knew in New Orleans to find out how they made them or where they bought them. After collecting all the information, we collaborated and designed our initial design. The initial design evolved throughout the six months as fittings, ideas, and new materials were discovered. Everything on the dress, train, and mantle was an original design and hand sewn.” Another aspect of Sullivan’s designs is historical authenticity; and for her nephew’s General’s uniform, she had a lot of research to do in order to find the perfect outfit for him. “In the designing aspect, I research the fashion at that time period by searching for

pictures of authentic outfits and seeking advice from other seamstress and designers. Sandra Stokes of San-Jays Creations is a mentor to me and an encyclopedia of information when it comes to making historically authentic costumes. Her advice and suggestions have been invaluable to me during this process,” Sullivan shared. “For Tyler’s Confederate General uniform, I wanted everything correct; so research was vital to understanding what each part means. For instance, take the colors used: gold represents the Cavalry, red represents Artillery, and light blue represents Infantry. Other examples of meaning are the number of buttons on the coat; and the color of the collar indicates the soldier’s rank. Even my understanding of how and why the scrolls on the General’s sleeves are done a certain way was important,” Sullivan said. “Once I understand all the aspects and decisions are agreed upon, I shop for everything needed. This can be harder than you think; I have often designed a costume with my client, agreed upon colors, and then had to get creative

Above—The completed dress was quite the accomplishment. Right—Sullivan worked to create a comfortable cape for the Krewe of Phoenix’s Rex.

to obtain the exact desired color and dye for the fabrics and trims. I chose to dye the trim on Tyler’s costume to customize the intricate details of the uniform. “I do enjoy being able to make the costume special for my client by adding a unique aspect. For Tyler’s outfit, an authentic Civil-War-era Confederate Mississippi button was found and sewn on the inside of his jacket over his heart. This one button, actually worn by a soldier during a Civil War battle, will be with Tyler as he is representing all of the men and boys who lost their lives during the war.” While working with family could be a tedious venture for anyone, especially a designer, Sullivan enjoyed working closely with her sister to create these timeless pieces. “Lisa and I lost our mother unexpectedly in February of 2014, so working together on the Mardi Gras costumes and Tyler’s uniform has helped us stay close and handle our grief. It has been my privilege to create these costumes and make them beautiful and comfortable so they can enjoy these special events.” Bluffs & Bayous { March 2015 { Page 43

The interior of the sanctuary of the Episcopal Church.

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Above—Judy Johnson, a Magnolia Garden Club member, will be a designer creating arrangements for the Episcopal Church’s participation in the MGC annual flower show March 25. Right—The crucifix hangs in the Apse of the Catholic Mission Church.

Angelic Design

embers of Magnolia Garden Club are making preparations now for the 2015 Flower Show, and this year’s event has a twist. Instead of having a judged show open to the public in an historic home, the members have coordinated and designed altar flowers for six historic churches in Magnolia, Mississippi. All six sanctuaries will be open to the public to view the MGC arrangements, and each will have a member or local historian available to give insight and details on the history of the building. All six churches are within walking distance of each other and are connected by sidewalks. If the weather is nice, it would make a lovely walking tour.

story and photos by Elise Parker Bluffs & Bayous { March 2015 { Page 45

The historic churches include St. James Methodist Church built in 1898. This is the northern most church on Highway 51. Just south of St. James is the Magnolia Presbyterian Church, which boasts a copper steeple and a recent interior renovation. Immediately across the street from the Presbyterian Church is the Magnolia United Methodist Church, where Magnolia author and resident Alice Mitchell will assist in the sharing of the church’s history. One block south, also on Highway 51, is Our Redeemer Episcopal Church, which sports blooming flower beds all year round. Half a block away is the St. James Catholic Mission Church, whose altar flowers will be under the direction of Mrs. Betty O’Rourke with a colorful history by Mike Austin. The southern most church of the group, taking up nearly a whole block at Magnolia’s only red light, is First Baptist Church. Life-long member, church librarian, and Magnolia Garden Club member Betsy Harrell will design the altar flowers and compile this church’s history. On Wednesday, March 25, 2015, all of the sanctuaries will open at 1:00 p.m. to begin the tours and will close at 5:00 p.m. The public is welcome to attend, view the altar flowers, and hear some local, southern history from these historic churches in Magnolia, Mississippi.

St. James Methodist Church Episcopal Church

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Catholic Mission Church

Church

The Pike County Azalea Festival opens March 2 and runs through March 27. Homes throughout the county will have their azaleas lighted, and the community will host four weeks of events which include flower shows, shopping specials, informative luncheons, celebrations of the arts, and fun family events designed to showcase Pike County during the most beautiful time of yearâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;the Azalea Festival. These six sanctuaries will be open for public tours Wednesday, March 25.

Magnolia United Methodist Church First Baptist Church

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The Spring Cleaning Q & A with Declutter by Diane

n order to prepare ourselves for a busy spring to come, letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s get a little assistance from the professionals, shall we? Diane Ryan of Declutter by Diane in Madison, Mississippi, helps those in need of a little organization and sprucing up in their homes and offices.

story & photos by Jennie Guido Bluffs Bluffs & & Bayous Bayous { March March 2015 2015 { Page Page 49 49

B&B: How did you get started in this? Where do you see yourself going with it in the future?

Ryan: I have always, as long as I can remember, loved redoing spaces and organizing my friends’ and families’ homes, including closets, pantries, desks, and generally everything. After remarrying and moving to Brookhaven, Mississippi, I was working for my husband in his oil and gas company and was bored to death. One day I said, I’m going crazy. I have to do something else besides be your secretary. I need to find my purpose. I was encouraged by friends and family to do professional organizing. I started it and have had huge success! I absolutely without a doubt know this is what my purpose is. I am finding that more and more people just need simple education about the principles of organizing. I see my company and team still working diligently in both residential organizing and corporate organizing by teaching these skills one-on-one. I personally will be directing a team while venturing also in the direction of the education of organizing through schools, colleges, speaking engagements, business retreats, and classes both in person and virtually. I believe education in organizing is a key life skill that needs to be introduced to individuals starting at school age all the way to adulthood. Being organized helps individuals in daily tasks at home, school, work, and in general life by creating individuals who are happier with themselves and their space. B&B: What would you say is the biggest obstacle you face as a professional organizer?

Ryan: Often when I receive calls for organizing, the clients truly believe they are ready to better the space in theory; but often, they aren’t truly ready to let go of belongings to create the space they desire. Once we talk things out and get everything organized, we go to work. However, if the clients aren’t ready to change their habits or follow the systems put in place, they will end up back in a disorganized state. B&B: What do you get from organizing a space?

Ryan: Changing clients’ lives by making them love their homes and space again is a satisfaction with immeasurable limits. Having clients feel that the overwhelming Page Page50 50 { { March March2015 2015 { { Bluffs Bluffs&&Bayous Bayous

feeling of clutter and disorder is put away forever allows them to spend time doing the things they love and enjoying life again with no feelings of guilt.

B&B: What tips can you give to others on

how to kick-start spring cleaning in their own homes?

Ryan: Spring cleaning is in the air. Some suggestions to kick-start this process is to start in small doses by clearing unwanted or unneeded items in your home. One tip I like to recommend is to fill one garbage bag daily with things to donate or to trash. You will have thirty trash bags worth of space back in just one month. Continuing this really will make a difference and doesn’t feel like it’s something that’s out of your limits to accomplish. Get the whole family involved in the process, too. At a certain time every night, you could make it like a game. Everyone could find items in their personal space to discard. Before long, the space that you once had for the things you loved will be revealed again; and the entire family has recreated it. B&B: What is one thing that people can do every day to stay ahead of the game of clutter?

Ryan: Paper is a huge clutter problem in most homes. I like to encourage people to set up a command center in the space where they enter the home daily. This command center is where mail needs to be sorted; junk mail needs to be trashed; and bills and pending payments will be put in a file that is in clear sight and a constant reminder. Items received that need to be kept will be filed when going through the mail and such at this command center. Magazines received should be made to replace the older issue and the older one trashed. The general rule is try to touch paper only one time—meaning to deal with it as it is received. The command center is also a dropoff point for children’s backpacks, purses, keys, and anything else that is of importance and will need to be taken back out regularly. We also teach that this space is where you would put things that need to be taken somewhere. For instance, clothes that need to go to cleaners; repairs that need to be made; and returns that need to go to stores. For more information about Diane Ryan and her professional organization business, visit www.declutterbydiane.com. Bluffs Bluffs&&Bayous Bayous { { March March2015 2015 { { Page Page51 51

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

Natchez k vidalia k Ferriday k Natchez k vidalia k Ferriday k Page 52 { March 2015 { Bluffs & Bayous

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

Natchez k vidalia k Ferriday k Natchez k vidalia k Ferriday k Bluffs & Bayous { March 2015 { Page 53

THE social SCENE ST. FRANCISVILLE,, LA

Party Honors Pilgrimage Homeowners

t. Francisville Pilgrimage homeowners were honored with a party recently in St. Francisville, Louisiana. Homes included in the 2015 Pilgrimage are Dogwood, Lavert-Bockel House, Retreat Plantation, The Oaks, Rosedown, and Oakley State Historic Sites. Audubon Pilgrimage is the weekend of March 20-22, 2015.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13

David Norwood and Irv Daniel Linda Flynn, Jane Daniel, and Cammie Norwood Mary Godke and Amanda McKinney Wayne and Anne Slater with Nessie Richards Christian Tregle and Mary Godke Jeff and Linda Pruitt with Betsy Daniel Sylvia Leake, Nancy Vinci, and Lucie Cassity Lori and Thomas Temple with Miles and Missy Higgins Rob and Missy Couhig, Irv and Betsy Daniel, Christian Tregle, and Susie and Tom Tully Beryl Gene Daniel, Christian Tregle, and Jane Daniel Dixie and Kenneth Blue with Julie Brashier Missy and Rob Couhig with Linda Flynn Charles Jenkins and David Norwood

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THE social SCENE NATCHEZ, MS

Newcomers Club’s Style Show

n Wednesday, January 21, 2015, the Newcomers Club of Natchez held a luncheon and style show at the Vue on the bluffs of Natchez, Mississippi. Beautiful seasonal and spring clothes were modeled by some of the Newcomers with the help of Katies Ladies’ Apparel.

4 1 Ginger Schwager, Hazel Ferrell, Beth DeAngelis, Cherish McCallum, Sandy Taylor, and Johanna Busby 2 Hazel Ferrell, Cherish McCallum, Johanna Busby, and Angela Gibson 3 Beth DeAngelis, Ginger Schwager, and Sandy Taylor 4 Katie McCarstle and Angela Gibson

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THE social SCENE MCCOMB, MS

Shuffle to the Chefs

n January 22, 2015, the St. Andrew’s Mission hosted its annual Shuffle to the Chefs at the McComb Mill in McComb, Mississippi. This year’s theme was “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil” and the event featured chefs from Hammond and New Orleans, Louisiana; Jackson, Mississippi; and many local chefs from southwest Mississippi. Guests enjoyed a fabulous finedining experience along with a spectacular silent auction. Photos by Elise Parker

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Patsy and Larry Carruth Dr. Harold Young and Constance Cowart Cindy Murphree and Beckie Nieman Terry and Debbie McWilliams Beverly Welch and Brianna Causey Gayle McGowan and Vince Varley Lindsey and Bryce Belsom Ricky Bowers and Katrina Dufrene Charles and Michelle Peters Debbie and Butch Kennedy

1 2

3 4

5 6

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THE social SCENE

MCCOMB, MS

11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21

Lindsey and Bryce Brock Gina Spalitta and Mercedes Ricks Ted and Wendy Jordan Liz McDaniel and Cathy Parker Sabrina and Curtis Bedwell Barbara Starrett and Craig Haskins Corey Amos and Randy Slonaker Gary Jones and Allison Ott Will Kimmel and Jase Roberts Heather Newman and Jim Dykes Wayne Hutchinson and Vicki Craghead

14 15

16 17

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THE social SCENE MCCOMB, MS

22 Michael Guttuso, Dionne Kitchens, Lee Ellen Haskins, Karinlee Brister, Parker Voss, and Daryl Redditt 23 Georgia Ott, Kent Kebert, Ann Jackson, and Deborah Price 24 Jim Hales, Sally Johnson, Betsy Enochs, Billy Phillips, and Susy Sanders 25 Pake Redditt, Chris Hamilton, Cody Redditt, Cindy Redditt, and Daryl Redditt

26 Gary Nelson, Kim Nelson, and

Paula Albritton

27 Stacey and Kim Saucier 28 Marty Albritton, Jerry Stubbs,

and Eddie Cockerham

29 Joan Burt and Yetta England 30 Michael Cameron, Wade

Harms, and Susan Morris

31 Carolyn Doyle, Sara Doyle, and

Noriko Faust

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THE social SCENE MCCOMB, MS

DAR Christmas Party

he Judith Robinson Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution recently met at the home of Janice Fortenberry for the chapter’s annual Christmas party in McComb, Mississippi. Hostesses for the meeting were Janice Fortenberry, Peggy Tidwell, Sue Boyd, Missy Holeman, and Carla Stringer. Members visited with each other during this wonderful holiday lunch. 1 Front row—Connie Lambert, Mildred Fountain, Mary Ann Mitchell, Pearl Strange, Wanda Lambuth, Mary Felder, Janice Brock, Elouise Lee, Betty Penick, Janice Fortenberry, and Sue Boyd; 2nd row—Carol Wood, Carla Stringer, Francis Crawford, Ann Hoff, Laila McEwen, Cherry Randall, Carolyn Richmond, and Helen Smith; 3rd row—Patsy Carruth, Jo Ann Carruth, Janet Barnes, Peggy Tidwell, Beverly King, Dina Rushing, and Jackie Russell; 4th row—Ava Madison, Darlene Morgan, Margie Roberts, Jane Ard, Libby Hill, Missy Holeman, Janette Alexander, and Robin Sheppard 2 Libby Hill, Janice Fortenberry, Peggy Tidwell, Patsy Carruth, and Vivis Moore-Smith 3 Elouise Lee, Janet Barnes, Jane Ard, and Frances Crawford 4 Peggy Tidwell, Sue Boyd, Missy Holeman, Janice Fortenberry, and Carla Stringer 5 Carolyn Richmond, Margie Roberts, Pearl Strange, and Wanda Lambuth 6 Mary Anne Mitchell, Mildred Fountain, and Ann Hoff 7 Missy Bates, Carol Wood, Janice Brock, and Janette Alexander 8 Cherrie Randall, Sue Boyd, and Patty Breckenridge

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MARCH

premier events ST. FRANCISVILLE, LOUISIANA

March 20 - 22 2015 Audubon Pilgrimage St. Francisville, Louisiana The forty-fourth annual Audubon Pilgrimage celebrates a southern spring in St. Francisville, Louisiana, the glorious garden spot of Louisiana’s English Plantation Country. For over four decades the sponsoring West Feliciana Historical Society has thrown open the doors of significant historic structures to commemorate artist-naturalist John James Audubon’s stay as he painted a number of his famous bird studies. This year’s featured homes include three country plantations, one historic townhouse, and two significant state historic sites. The sites included are Retreat Plantation, Dogwood, The Oaks, the Levert- Bockel House, Audubon, and Rosedown Historic Sites. The tours of the homes and sites are open from 9:30 am to 5 pm; Friday evening activities are scheduled from 6 to 9 pm; and the Saturday soiree begins at 7 pm. A package including daytime tours and all evening entertainment is available. Tickets can be purchased at the Historical Museum. For tickets and tour information, call West Feliciana Historical Society at (225)635-6330 or visit www.audubonpilgrimage.info.

COLUMBUS, MISSISSIPPI April 6 - 18 Columbus Spring Pilgrimage Columbus, Mississippi The seventy-fifth annual Columbus Spring Pilgrimage, an award-winning event that has been recognized as one of the best and most authentic home tours in the South, will be opening its doors through the month of April. The antebellum mansions of Columbus are exquisite and ready to show what they have to offer. Many of the homes on tour will feature recreated activities of the 1800s, complete with period costumes from the locals. Events included are Home Tours, Carriage Rides, Double Decker Bus Rides, Half Marathon and 5K, and Tales from the Crypt. Ticket prices vary depending on the activities. For more information or for tickets, call (662)329-1191 or visit www.visitcolumbusms.org

JACKSON, MISSISSIPPI March 4 Chef’s Table Spring Fling 1908 Provisions at The Fairview Inn Jackson, MS You are officially invited, and it’s an event you don’t want to miss. 1908 Provisions is having a Chef’s Table “Spring Fling” dinner on March 4, 2015, at 6:30 pm; and it’s going to be divine. Chef Hawkins will personally come out to present and explain each dish. He’ll talk about the local ingredients menu choices, and answer any foodie questions you may have. There will also be wine pairings to match each course and an explaination as to why each pairing was chosen for each course. This dinner has limited seating, and it’s filling up quickly. For more information, call the Fairview Inn at (601)948-3429 ext 305.

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premier events MARCH McCOMB, MISSISSIPPI March 19 Retail Therapy Day McComb, MS The Pike County Chamber of Commerce’s “Retail Therapy” day is an exclusive shopping event where participants will receive discounts at all their favorite places to shop for the best that spring and summer styles have to offer. All you have to do is buy a ticket for $5, and you will receive a special coupon sheet that gives you exclusive discounts at participating stores for one day only, Thursday, March 19, 2015! For more information, call the Pike County Chamber of Commerce at (601)684-2291.

NATCHEZ, MISSISSIPPI

March 7 – April 7 Natchez Spring Pilgrimage Natchez, MS Take a stroll through the twenty-four antebellum mansions that Natchez has to offer during this year’s Spring Pilgrimage. Your tour will consist of friendly tour guides dressed in period clothing, and relating stories of the great history that is the tapestry of Natchez, Mississippi. Along with the house tours, step back in time each Friday and Saturday evening and experience a time-honored Natchez tradition, which displays the history of this unique town. From the Natchez Indians’ battle with the French to the Natchez Elite era, the triumph over slavery, and the dismantling of the Forks of the Road slave market, this all-local cast mixes history, music, and dance of Pre-Civil War Natchez. On top of these two five-star events, Natchez Spring Pilgrimage has so much more to offer including a jaw-dropping Gospel performance by the Holy Family Gospel Choir, Natchez Little Theatre performance of Little Women, and individual antebellum events. Don’t miss out on this spectacular season! For more information about times and tickets prices, call (601)446-6631, (601)446-6742, or visit www.natchezpilgrimage.com.

March 9 Elms Court Ragtime to Swing Natchez, Mississippi On March 9, 2015, from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm, Elms Court presents an intimate event featuring music from the repertoire of famed Natchez Band Leader Bud Scott. The purpose of this event is to allow guests to tour the house informally and have a chance to talk with the owners in a way that is not possible on a normal Pilgrimage morning. David Troutman and Burnley Cook, two local musicians, have developed a program on Bud Scott, which includes mainly a musical performance preceded by a brief commentary. Tickets for this performance will be sold through the Natchez Pilgrimage Tours office for $25 per ticket. For more information, call (601)446-6631 or visit www.natchezpilgrimage.com.

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MARCH Louisiana Up & Coming! ALEXANDRIA Throughout March Ellsworth & William Woodward: Impressions of Southland Alexandria Museum of Art $4 www.themuseum.org March 5 A Taste of the South Symposium Forts Randolph & Buhlow State Historic Site 6 - 8 pm (318)484-2390 March 6 - 7 Life of the Battlefield Forts Randolph & Buhlow State Historic Site Friday: 9 am - 2 pm Saturday: 9 am - 12 pm (318)484-2390 March 6 The Red River Campaign Symposium Kent Plantation House 6 - 8 pm (318)487-5998

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Louisiana Up & Coming! MARCH March 7 Annual Spring Arts & Crafts Show Kees Park 9 am - 5 pm (318)443-1785 March 14 Red River Run Downtown Alexandria 3 pm www.redriverrun.com March 15 Tour of Homes Sponsored by Hope House of Central LA Throughout Alexandria 2 - 4 pm / $25 Call to reserve tickets (318)487-2061 BATON ROUGE March 2 Reflections in the Garden: America’s Favorite Fruit LSU AG Center Botanic Gardens 12 - 1 pm / $10 (225)763-3990 / www.lsuagcenter.com March 5 - 7 Manship Theatre 10th Anniversary Manship Theatre www.manshiptheatre.org March 7 - 8 Frisco Fest San Francisco Plantation 9 am - 5 pm (985)535-2341 www.SanFranciscoPlantation.org March 7 Ione E. Burden Symposium LSU Ag Center 8 am - 4 pm (225)763-3990 www.DiscoverBurden.com March 11 Seven Brides for Seven Brothers Baton Rouge River Center 7:30 pm www.batonrougerivercenter.net March 14 Wearin’ of the Green St. Patrick’s Day Parade S. Acadian Thruway / Hundred Oaks Area 10 am www.paradegroups.com March 14 - 15 Baton Rouge Spring Garden Show John M. Parker Coliseum LSU Campus 9 am - 4 pm / $5 (225)578-2110 / www.lsuagcenter.com

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MARCH Louisiana Up & Coming! March 21 Baton Rouge Ballet Presents: 6th Annual Dancin’ in the Streets Block Party Fundraiser Perkins Rowe 7 - 10 pm $35 advance / $45 at door (225)766-8379 / www.batonrougeballet.org March 21 Zapp’s International Beer Festival Rural Life Museum 3:30 - 6:30 pm / $40 Advanced purchase required (225)765-2437 / www.rurallife.lsu.edu March 22 Habitat Home and Garden Expo Baton Rouge River Center 10 am - 5 pm (225)769-7696 / www.brrivercenter.com March 24 - 25 Shen Yun Performing Arts Baton Rouge River Center 7:30 pm www.batonrougerivercenter.net March 28 Empty Bowls Ingleside Methodist Church 4264 Capital Heights Ave. 11 am - 2 pm / $20 www.brfoodbank.org/emptybowls March 28 - 29 Fest for All Art & Music Festival Downtown Baton Rouge 10 am - 7 pm www.artsbr.org FERRIDAY March 18 Ferriday Garden Club Lunch & Fashion Show Arcade Theatre 11 am / $35 (318)757-7973 GONZALES March 12 - 15 Louisiana Sportsman Show & Festival Lamar Dixon Expo Center (985)758-7217 www.louisianasportsmanshow.com JACKSON March 27 - 29 The 50th Jackson Assembly Antiques & Art Show Downtown Jackson Friday – Saturday: 10 am - 5 pm Sunday: 10 am - 4 pm www.jacksonassemblyantiquesshow.com

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Louisiana Up & Coming! MARCH March 28 - 29 Siege of Port Hudson Reenactment Port Hudson State Historic Site 9 am - 5 pm (225)654- 3775 / www.LaStateParks.com LAKE CHARLES March 6 - April 25 “A Lil’ Bit of This, A Lil’ Bit of That” Solo Exhibit of Salongo Lee Black Heritage Gallery (337)488-0567 March 14 “Flowers of Hope and Healing” Solo Exhibit of Shirley Byrne Arts Natchez Gallery 6 - 8 pm www.artsnatchez.com MONROE/ WEST MONROE Throughout March 51st Annual Juried Competition Masur Museum (318)329-2237 / www.masurmuseum.org

March 6 - 8 Barak Shrine Circus Monroe Civic Center Friday: 7:30 pm / Saturday: 10 am & 2:30 pm / Sunday: 2 & 6 pm (318)329-2225 / www.ci.monroe.la.us March 13 - 15 Junior League of Monroe Spring Market Monroe Civic Center (318)329-2225 / www.jlmonroe.org March 14 St. Paddy’s Bicycle Parade & Festival Kiroli Park 10 am - 2 pm (318)325-1961 / www.westmonroe.com March 14 & 28 Nature Wildlife Photography Workshop Black Bayou National Wildlife Refuge 10 am - 2pm / $50 (318)927-9654 / www.fws.gov

March 21 - 22 & 28 - 29 Spring Fiesta & Historical Home Tours of the New Orleans Spring Fiesta Association Throughout New Orleans (504)581-1367 / www.springfiesta.com March 21 - 22 Congo Square New World Rhythms Festival Congo Square www.neworleansonline.com March 25 - 29 Tennessee Williams New Orleans Literary Festival French Quarter (504)581-1144 / tennesseewilliams.net March 27 - 29 Food Fest French Market www.nolafoodfest.com

NEW ORLEANS March 14 Irish Channel St. Patrick’s Day Parade Felicity & Magazine St www.isrishchannelno.org

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MARCH Louisiana Up & Coming!

MARCH Mississippi Up & Coming!

PORT ALLEN

RUSTON

BROOKHAVEN

Through April 5 Apron Chronicles: A Patchwork of American Recollections West Baton Rouge Museum 10 am - 4:30 pm (225)336-2422 www.westbatonrougemuseum.com

March 5 - 7 To Kill A Mockingbird The Dixie Center for the Arts Friday & Saturday: 7 pm / Sunday: 2 pm $12 (318)255-1450 / www.rustonlincoln.com

March 6 - 7, 13 - 15 Red Velvet Cake War Brookhaven Little Theatre $10 (601)669-1878 / www.haventheatre.org

Through March 20 Brave Steps: The Louisiana Native Guard West Baton Rouge Museum 10 am - 4:30 pm (225)336-2422 www.westbatonrougemuseum.com March 28 - April 30 Talented Art Student Exhibition West Baton Rouge Museum (225)336-2422 www.westbatonrougemuseum.com March 7 Greater Baton Rouge Regional National History Day Competition West Baton Rouge Musuem (225)336-2422 www.westbatonrougemuseum.com NEW ROADS March 14 6th Annual Spring Street Festival Classic Car Show Downtown New Roads 9 am - 3 pm / $30 (225)638-5360

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ST. FRANCISVILLE March 15 Rouge Roubaix West Feliciana Parish www.rougeroubaix.com March 20 - 22 2015 Audubon Pilgrimage Throughout St. Francisville (225)635-6330 www.audubonpilgrimage.info. March 24 Plein Air Painting Workshop The Myrtles 9 am – 3 pm / $125 (615)216-5907 VIDALIA March 7 Cruising For A Cure Car Show Benefiting Relay For Life 1211 Apple St $25 www.cityofvidalia.com

CLEVELAND March 5 F1rst Thursdays Downtown Cleveland 5 - 8 pm www.visitthedelta.com March 24 The Heart Behind the Music Songwriter’s Showcase Bologna Performing Arts Center 7:30 pm / Prices vary www.bolognapac.com March 30 - 31 Winning the Race Through Hearts & Minds Conference Delta State University 8 - 9 am www.deltastate.edu COLUMBUS April 6 - 18 Columbus Spring Pilgrimage Throughout Columbus Prices vary (662)329-1191 / www.visitcolumbusms.org

Mississippi Up & Coming! MARCH April 11 Columbus Pilgrimage Half Marathon & 5K Tennessee Williams Welcome Center 7 am www.columbushalfmarathon5k.com GREENWOOD March 7 The Mississippi Blues Fest Leflore County Civic Center 7 pm www.mississippibluesfest.com HATTIESBURG March 1 USM Music Department presents Mary Poppins Mannori Performing Arts Center 2 pm / $15 - 25 www.visithattiesburg.com March 4 The Gala of The Royal Horses Forrest County Multi-Purpose Center 7 pm www.forrestcountycenter.com March 28 Hub Fest Downtown Hattiesburg 9 am - 5 pm www.theadp.com JACKSON Through April 12 The 2015 Scholastic Art Awards Exhibition The Mississippi Museum of Art 10 am - 5 pm (601)960-1515 / www.msmuseumart.org Through April 19 Civil War Era Drawings from the Becker Collection Mississippi Museum of Art 5 pm / Prices vary (601)960-1515 / www.msmuseumart.org March 3 2nd Annual Barks, BBQ & Blues Event Duling Hall 6 - 9 pm $45 advance / $55 day of event (601)209-0667 / (601)826-4968 March 4 Chefâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Table Spring Fling Hosted by Fairview Inn 1908 Provisions 6:30 pm $49 food / $29 wine flight (601)948-3429/ www.seatme.yelp.com

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MARCH Mississippi Up & Coming! March 7 Fossil Road Show Mississippi Museum of Natural Science 10 am - 3 pm www.mdwfp.com

March 19 Screen on the Green Mississippi Museum of Art 5:30 - 9 pm www.msmuseumofart.org

March 27 - 28 Jackson Spring Jam Jackson Convention Complex 8 pm www.visitjackson.com

March 7 Zoo Day Jackson Zoo 10 am - 1 pm $6 Children / $9 Adults www.jacksonzoo.org

March 20 - 22 Jackson Garden & Patio Show Mississippi Trade Mart 9 am - 5 pm / $6 www.msnla.org

March 30 Taste of Mississippi Highland Village 7 pm / $65 www.atasteofms.org

March 20 - 21 Mal’s St. Paddy’s Parade & Street Festival Downtown Jackson 5 - 11 pm / $25 www.malsstpaddysparade.com

April 11 16th Annual Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure The Central Mississippi Steel Magnolias Affiliate Old Capitol Museum Registration: 6 am / Race: 8:15 am Prices vary (601)594-4429 / www.komencentralms.org

March 9 - 13 Zoo Camp Jackson Zoo 9 am - 4 pm www.jacksonzoo.org March 13 - 15 The Home Show Mississippi Trade Mart 10 am - 5 pm / $7 www.hbjackson.com March 17 Music in the City Mississippi Museum of Art 5:30 - 9 pm www.msmuseumofart.org March 19 Mississippi Wildlife Federation Annual Meeting Mississippi Agriculture & Forestry Museum 10 am (601)605-1790

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March 21- 22 Beauty and the Beast Mississippi Metropolitan Ballet Jackson Academy Performing Arts Center 2 pm www.msmetroballet.com March 22 Belle’s Tea Party Mississippi Metropolitan Ballet Jackson Academy Performing Arts Center 4 pm $25 www.msmetroballet.com March 27 - 28 Sweet Potato Queen’s Zippoty Doo Dah Parade & Festival Fondren Area 9 am - 10 pm www.zddparade.com

MADISON March 27 Tosca Mississippi Opera Madison Square Center for the Arts 7:30 pm / $45 (601)960-2300 / www.msopera.org MAGNOLIA March 23 Magnolia Garden Club’s Tour of Historical Churches Throughout Magnolia 1 - 5 pm (601)684-2291 / www.pikeinfo.com March 27 Magnolia’s Evening of Lights Throughout Magnolia (601)684-2291 / www.pikeinfo.com

Mississippi Up & Coming! MARCH MCCOMB March 2 - 23 Lighted Azalea Trail Pike County Area 5:30 pm (601)684-2291 / www.pikeinfo.com March 2 - 27 Pike County Azalea Festival Pike County Area (601)684-2291 / www.pikeinfo.com March 5 Pike County Master Gardner’s Azalea Festival Luncheon St. Andrews Community Center 12 pm / $10 (601)249-5933 / www.pikeinfo.com March 19 Princess on Parade The Brentwood House 6 - 8 pm (601)684-2291 / www.pikeinfo.com March 19 Retail Therapy Throughout Pike County All day (601)684-2291 / www.pikeinfo.com

March 7 - April 7 Natchez Spring Pilgrimage Throughout Natchez (601)446-6631 www.natchezpilgrimage.com

March 4 Natchez Brewing Co. Craft Beer Launch Fat Mama’s Tamales 11 am - 9 pm www.visitnatchez.org

March 7- April 7 Southern Exposure Natchez Little Theatre 7:30 pm / $15 www.natchezlittletheatre.org

March 9 From Ragtime to Swing: Featuring Bud Scott Elms Court 5:30 - 7:30 pm / $25 (601)446-6631 www.natchezpilgrimage.com

March 7 - April 7 A Musical Portrait of Natchez Carriage House Restaurant 6 - 7 pm / $15 www.natchezpilgrimagetours.com March 7 - April 7 Southern Road to Freedom Holy Family Catholic Church 8 - 9 pm / $15 www.natchezpilgrimagetours.com March 16, 30, & April 6 A Soiree Musicale J.N. Stone House 6 - 7 pm / $20 www.natchezpilgrimagetours.com

March 10 Entrepreneur Academy The APEX Center 300 Franklin St 5:30 - 7:30 pm / $25 11-week class Aimee Guido / (601)445-0288 aguido@natchezinc.com March 12 Spring “Lunchinar” Series: “Crowdfunding to Success” The APEX Center 300 Franklin St Noon / RSVP required Aimee Guido / (601)445-0288 aguido@natchezinc.com

March 23 Azalea Coronation Edgewood Park 6 pm (601)684-2291 / www.pikeinfo.com MEADVILLE March 21 Forge Racing Trail Running Spring Equinox Clear Springs Recreation Area www.forgeracing.net NATCHEZ March 6 - April 3 Little Women Natchez Little Theatre Monday, Wednesday & Friday: 7:30 pm $15 www.natchezlittletheatre.org March 6 - April 4 Historic Natchez Tableaux Natchez City Auditorium Friday & Saturday: 8 pm / $15 (601)446-6631 www.natchezpilgrimage.com

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MARCH Mississippi Up & Coming! March 14 Second Saturday Downtown Natchez 6 - 8 pm www.visitnatchez.org March 21 Save the Hall Ball Stanton Hall 10 pm - 1 am $100/ $250 couples package www.natchezpilgrimagetours.com March 23 Candlelight Tour The Towers 7 - 9 pm / $35 www.thetowersofnatchez.com March 28 - 29 PowWow of the Natchez Indians Natchez Indian Village www.natchezpowwow.com March 29 NGC Easter Egg Hunt Monmouth Historic Inn 2 - 4 pm / $10 (601)443-9065 April 10 22nd Annual Natchez Chamber Golf Tournament Duncan Park Golf Course 11:30 am / $125 4-man scramble natchezchamber@natchezchamber.com April 18 RiverStock 2015 Natchez Bluff Ages 6 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 12: $15 / Ages 13 and up: $10 www.riverstockfest.com PORT GIBSON March 27 MS Cultural Crossroads 28th Annual Quilt Show 507 Market St. 9 am - 3 pm (601)437-8905 March 27 - 28 Whispers in the Cedars Cemetery Tour Port Gibson City Hall 27th: 6:30, 7:30, & 8:30 pm 28th: 7:30 & 8:30 pm Adult: $20 / Students (18 & under): $10 (601)437-5097

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Mississippi Up & Coming! MARCH March 28 Main Street 28th Heritage Festival Downtown Port Gibson 8 am - 6 pm / Free Music, dancing, & exhibits (601)437-4500

March 9 Brunch in March Workshop Southern Cultural Heritage Foundation 5:30 - 7 :30 pm $35 (601)631-2997 / www.southernculture.org

March 23 Cooking Gumbo with Tom Ramsey Southern Heritage Foundation 5:30 - 7:30 pm $50 members / $55 non members www.southernculture.org

RIDGELAND Throughout June & July Creative Craft Camp 2015 The Craftsmen’s Guild of Mississippi (601)856-7546 / www.craftsmensguildofms.org

March 9 - 11 Wings of Freedom Tour Southern Heritage Foundation Prices vary (601)695-1150 www.southernheritageair.org

March 23 Gold in the Hills Auditions Vicksburg Theatre Guild’s Parkside Playhouse 6 pm (601)636-0741

March 21 Run Up for Downs 5k Old Trace Park 5:15 - 8:30 pm / $30 www.runningforlilly.com

March 9 - 13 Tara Wildlife Spring Break Youth Camp Tara Wildlife $500 per child (601)279-4261 / www.tarawildlife.com

SUMMIT

March 10 Hangout at the Hanger Southern Heritage Air Foundation 12 pm (601)415-1902 www.southernheritageair.org

March 19 “Southwest’s Got Talent” Show Southwest Community College Hurst Auditorium 7 pm (601)276-3732 / www.smcc.edu VICKSBURG Throughout March West Side Theatre Foundation Film Series The Strand Theatre www.westsidetheatrefoundation.com March 7 Run Through History Vicksburg Military Park 8 am (601)636-0583 / www.visitvicksburg.com

March 13 - 15, 20 - 22 Smoke & Mirrors Vicksburg Theatre Guild’s Parkside Playhouse 7:30 pm Friday & Saturday/ 2 pm Sunday $15 www.vicksburgtheatreguild.com

March 26 The Union of the North and the South Ann Mock Book Signing Keystone Antique Furnishings 12:30 - 2:30 pm (601)636-3222 WOODVILLE March 14 Ramathon Green Run 5k / 1k Fun Run Wilkinson County Park 9 am - 2 pm / $20 www.eventbrite.com

March 20 Junior Auxiliary of Vicksburg Kids Golf Tournament Vicksburg Country Club (601)636-4234 Be sure to confirm details of the events should changes have occurred since events were submitted.

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SOUTHERN SAMPLER

story by Alma M. Womack

Adventures in “Bob War” B loodroot: Reflections on Place by Appalachian Women Writers is a book that I chanced upon when ordering something else from Amazon. It is a collection of essays by women authors who mostly were reared in Appalachia, moved away, then returned to their childhood homes at some point in their lives. They were reared in the mountains, in the valleys, on creek banks, and in the shadow of coal and strip mines that have decimated portions of the Appalachian chain. Their early lives focused on family, extended family, the old ways, and the old places. Their sense of place is still very strong; and it is this sense that permeates their essays, their poetry, and their stories. I was already familiar with a few of the writers; Sharon McCrumb, Lee Smith, Gail Godwin, and Sheila Kay Adams are just four of the women included in this excellent collection. I have been an admirer of their stories for years now, so it was a treat to read something else they had written from their own personal experiences. One recurrent theme in many of the essays is this: the writer wanted to leave home, to experience the outside world, to learn to think, and talk like those people who lived “off the mountain.” Once out of the mountains, once they had learned to speak as the “others” spoke, they found out that they were missing their own true voice. Each regained her voice in her own way; but in every case, until she wrote as her people spoke and thought, she was never satisfied with her work. It was never quite right. When reading works on Appalachia, I am always amazed at the similarities in their language and ours, here in the lowland South. We

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use many of the same phrases whose original meanings have gone by the wayside for most of us; yet we continue their use. I really shouldn’t be all that surprised because the Appalachians were settled by the Scots, the Scots-Irish, and the English border peoples, the very same stock that provided the earliest settlers for our own region. The old words and phrases have been passed on for generations in the remote Appalachian settlements. The proper pronunciations of words have been saved there, too. I am always a little touchy when I hear people deride our accents, for I am quite proud of the fact that my speech is as it is. Why in the world anyone would want to sound like they came from certain other regions of our country is a mystery to me. I am reminded of the time that Claire took a speech class at NSU in Natchitoches. Her speech teacher was from out west. When asked why he came to Louisiana to teach, he explained that he wanted to help people in Louisiana learn proper pronunciation and correct speaking methods. Well, I always thought that our way of pronouncing words was downright melodious; and some of our grammatical structures go back to Elizabethan times. That means we are truly carriers of centuries-old speech and culture. Speech teachers never see it that way. I remember a teacher at Louisiana College when I was there. When the first class of the semester was held, every student had to introduce himself and tell his hometown. Whenever a Jonesville student identified himself as such, the teacher would throw his hands in the air and moan to the

tune of, “Oh, no, they’ve sent me another one to teach how to pronounce a’s and i’s.” I can’t seem to recall that any of us ended up talking like we were from metropolitan Pineville and Alexandria in spite of his efforts. It has been told to me that a Southern accent is a definite liability in the business world outside the South. People who pride themselves on being non-discriminatory on the basis of race, creed, and gender will automatically assume that the person with a Southern accent is intellectually inferior. This is a prejudice and stereotype that only seems to grow stronger each year. A person can be well-educated, successful in his field, and a model citizen; but if he speaks with a soft Southern drawl, he is deemed inferior and probably a member of the Ku Klux Klan on weekends. Speech teachers, please spare me. I do believe in good grammar and in learning how to present an idea so that it is easily understood by those who are listening. These are basic communication skills that need to be taught, even drilled into students. But I warn you—leave my accent alone and forget trying to abolish the wonderful phrases handed down to us from the settlers who braved the perils of relocating to a new world three hundred years ago. An example of colorful phrasing: My former fourth-grade teacher, Miss Emily Coney, was an educated, well-spoken lady all her days. She often used an old Southern expression to express disdain for a certain type of character. She called them “common as pig tracks,” a phrase that left no room for misunderstanding. Changing that phrase to “undesirable” just wouldn’t have the same effect. I share this sentiment with the ladies of Appalachia; to me, it is of great importance to save our regional accents, rather than seeing them all destroyed in favor of one way of speaking. To lose our Southern accents would be to lose centuries of cultural history; we would lose words and pronunciations that connect us to our ancestors. And just think how absolutely boring it would be to have to listen all day to people who have no idea what “bob war” means. (“Bob war” is the colloquial expression for barbed wire in case someone might be wondering.) 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.

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