Delta Magazine November/December 2024

Delta

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

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RECIPES TO MAKE THIS SEASON

A festive holiday breakfast Host a small(er) Thanksgiving The ultimate

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DELTA MAGAZINE 2024

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Publisher: J. Scott Coopwood Editor in Chief: Cindy Coopwood Managing Editor: Taylor Armstrong Director of Production: Pam Parker Director of Special Projects: Kelli Williams Contributing Editors: Maude Schuyler Clay, Lea Margaret Hamilton, Jim “Fish” Michie, Brantley Snipes, Roger Stolle Website: Gregory Braggs Consultant: Samir Husni, Ph.D. Graphic Designers: Sandra Goff, Holly Ray, Denton Reed Copy Editor: Suzanne Durfey Contributing Writers: Jon Alverson, Bob Bailey, Jim Beaugez, Cordelia Capps, Terri Glazer, Erica Eason Hall, Joey Lee, Susan Marquez, Jim “Fish” Michie Photography: Dwayne Bratcher, Austin Britt, Greg Campbell, Rory Doyle, Brandall Laughlin, Anna Satterfield Account Executives: Joy Bateman, Melanie Dupree, Cristen Hemmins, Kristy Kitchings, Wendy Mize, Ann Nestler, Cadey True Circulation: Lyndsi Naron Accounting Manager: Holly Tharp POSTMASTER: Send all address changes to

Delta Magazine, PO Box 117, Cleveland, MS 38732

ADVERTISING: For advertising information, please call (662) 843-2700 Delta Magazine accepts no responsibility for unsolicited materials or photos and in general does not return them to sender. Photography obtained for editorial usage is owned by Delta Magazine and may not be released for commercial use such as in advertisements and may not be purchased from the magazine for any reason. All editorial and advertising information is taken from sources considered to be authoritative, but the publication cannot guarantee their accuracy. Neither that information nor any opinion expressed on the pages of Delta Magazine in any way constitutes a solicitation for the sale or purchase of securities mentioned. No material in Delta Magazine may be reproduced in any form without the written consent of the publication. Delta Magazine is published bimonthly by Coopwood Magazines, Inc., 125 South Court St., Cleveland, MS 38732-2626. Periodicals postage paid at Cleveland, MS and additional mailing office. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Delta Magazine, PO Box 117, Cleveland, MS 38732-0117. Delta Magazine (USPS#022-954)

Delta Magazine is published six times a year by Coopwood Magazines, Inc. EDITORIAL & BUSINESS OFFICE ADDRESSES: Mailing Address: PO Box 117, Cleveland, MS 38732 Shipping Address: 125 South Court Street, Cleveland, MS 38732 E-mail: publisher@deltamagazine.com editor@deltamagazine.com

deltamagazine.com 6 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

Classically designed sporting apparel and accessories for every season.

VISIT US ON THE SQUARE IN OXFORD, MS. tombeckbe.com

from the editor

Time Out of Mind

RORY DOYLE

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A ROUND-UP OF OUR 2024 COVERS

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RECIPES TO MAKE THIS SEASON

A festive holiday breakfast Host a small(er) Thanksgiving The ultimate

EDIBLE GIFTS

Holid

ay

life of publishing can really mess with your internal clock. Working ahead of the seasons

always keeps me a little unnerved, for example, feeling like I’ve already celebrated Christmas when it’s not even November.

It’s no surprise in publishing that we work far in advance, sometimes a whole year out, particularly to capture seasonal photography for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or other special events.

And, out of necessity, sometimes I find myself making things like turkey and dressing or Christmas cookies in August for a food feature. Perhaps I should suggest to my family that we observe our own holiday schedule based on my culinary prep demands. I’ll admit my mind can be so focused on an upcoming issue—the Fall Issue in July, the Holiday Issue in September, and so on—that I feel as if I miss the current season altogether and sometimes awaken with a jolt of terror that I’m woefully behind, only to sigh with relief to realize “Oh! Christmas is still two months away.” But that still basically seems like tomorrow! You with me?

Today is the 20th of October, and I am writing this in the final hours of tweaking articles and photos, proofreading, and making edits for this Holiday Issue. Oh—it’s also my birthday. It is, inevitably, a somewhat exhausting endeavor the last few days before each of our publishing deadlines. Even when it lands on my birthday. It’s like giving birth—it just has to be done and there’s no way around it. However, there’s also a wonderful sense of accomplishment and gratitude when each issue is completed and headed your way.

Instead of eating birthday cake, I’m still nibbling on the pumpkin cake balls and peanut brittle that Cordelia and I made for the Christmas Gifts and Goodies feature on page 164.

But as I work, I stop every few minutes to answer birthday texts or phone calls and feel blessed with each one. There’s also a stack of gifts from each precious member of my family awaiting my attention later today. So, all is well.

Did I mention it’s my birthday? Mind you, there is no need to focus on which one, but lately, I have been more keenly aware of how quickly they are adding up. Not only mine but those of my husband, children, family, and friends. And I am grateful for every one.

Every person and every birthday. Another issue in the books. Another year in business, completing Delta Magazine’s 21st year in publication. The ringing in of another new year soon to be celebrated.

I hope that you enjoy this issue throughout the holiday season. There are pages and pages of recipes that will take you from a simpler Thanksgiving dinner, to making holiday goodies to share, to a Christmas breakfast with ideas we think you’ll love. Plus, it’s the gifting season and I urge you to use our town advertising sections as guides to explore and shop in each one this season.

You’ll also read about Clarksdale native Wright Thompson’s new book, The Barn, in which he shares his poignant observation of the Emmett Till story—and another feature about the redemptive journey of Greenville musician Ron Etheridge—both written by Jim Beaugez.

So, Happy Birthday to me, Happy Holidays to you, and Happy New Year to us all, as we look ahead to everything 2025 will bring! DM

Cheer

Wright Thompson’s The Barn

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1. January/February: Kennington’s Mansion in Belhaven, photo by Andrew Welch 2. March/April: Greenwood bride, Suzanne Flautt, with her sisters, photo by Ashley Upchurch Photography 3. May/June: An eclectic arrangement greets guests at the art-filled Koury home in Oxford, photo by Abe Draper 4. July/August: Photo of Andrew McCarthy near his home in Manhattan, photo by Jesse Dittmar 5.

September/October: A stunning fall arrangement by interior designer Jenny Dabbs, photo by Austin Britt 6. November/December: A beautiful Thanksgiving tablescape designed by Cordelia Capps, photo by Anna Satterfield 10 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

Cindy Coopwood Editor in Chief @cindycoopwood | editor@deltamagazine.com

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DELTA MAGAZINE 2024

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contents NOVEMBER/DECEMBER Volume 22, No. 3

128 96 departments

42 BOOKS

Reviews of new releases and what Deltans are reading now

50 SHOPPING GREG CAMPBELL

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE: Hostess gifts, teacher gifts, and ideas for him and her

70 ART

148

164

JOEY YOUNG Creating Delta-centric paintings and functional pottery

78 MUSIC

RON ETHERIDGE How the Greenville musician found his way back

RORY DOYLE

128 HOME

GENERATIONS OF JOY One family’s Christmas traditions

AUSTIN BRITT

RORY DOYLE

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features

Holiday decorating with ribbon and bows, page 113

148 FOOD

Festive holiday breakfast ideas, page 116 Recipes for a smaller Thanksgiving gathering, page 148 Christmas gifts and goodies, page 164

174 HISTORY

BILLY SONGBIRD DEATON While the building was cookin’, Songbird was bookin’

88 New Store, Old Building

in every issue

96 Wright Thompson’s, The Barn

18 Letters 26 On the Road

Southern sporting gear brand Tom Beckbe comes to the Oxford Square

For Those Who Inherit the Delta

106 Have Shears, Will Travel Austin musician turned barber sets up shop in Clarksdale ON THE COVER: A perfect Thanksgiving table set with stunning china, treasured heirlooms, and an arrangement of deeply hued flowers accented with seasonal red cabbage and beets. Photo by Anna Satterfield 14 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

Where we’ve been, where we’re going next

30 Off the Beaten Path Roaming the real and rustic Delta

34 Hot Topics 182 Events 194 Delta Seen 200 The Final Word

by Jon Alverson

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2025

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MARCH/APRIL 2024

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SHOWCASE March/April 2025

Be a part of the most Southern Wedding event of the year!

The

EARLY BIRDS SPECIAL

Wedding ISSU E

Reserve your layout in the

2025 SHOWCASE

by November 31 and receive a $100 discount! ith us! w y a d l a our speci y e r a h S

We are NOW ACCEPTING submissions so don’t delay.

For more information, visit

deltamagazine.com or call our office

662.843.2700 16 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

DELTA MAGAZINE ANNOUNCEMENT OPTIONS

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ONE-PAGE ANNOUNCEMENTS

SALEM

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TWO-PAGE ANNOUNCEMENTS

GOODMAN

DAVIS

Abbey McCulloch Goodman and William Brandon Hanks were

reception at the Historic Elks Lodge in Greenwood. Karyn Burrus,

united in marriage at half past six o’clock in the evening on

cousin of the bride, with Grapevine Catering provided the food.

February 11, 2023, at the Episcopal Church of the Nativity in

Live music and entertainment were provided by Paul Brown

Greenwood.

downstairs during cocktail hour, and then upstairs by Dr. Zarr’s

The bride is the daughter of Tish Bowie Goodman of

Amazing Funk Monster. Grapevine Catering also created the

Greenwood and the late Paul Lumpkin Goodman. She is the

wedding cake and chocolate groom’s cake, which included a cake

granddaughter of Curtis Doty Bowie of Greenwood and the late

topper signifying his love for flying and their dog, Quiver.

Rose Marie Bowie, and the late Reverend and Mrs. Herbert Raymond Goodman of Tupelo.

an engagement party held by Clarksdale friends at the beautiful home of Tony Clay and Kalynn Marley. The bachelorette party was

Floyd Hanks of Memphis.

a wonderful winter trip to New York City; the groomsmen enjoyed

The ceremony of Holy Matrimony with Eucharist was officiated

united in marriage at seven o’clock in the evening on Saturday, May

Tennessee. Dr. Kenneth Bruce Davis, junior, served as best man in

20, 2023, at the Cathedral of Saint Peter the Apostle in downtown

spirit. Groomsmen were James Bellipanni, Will Edgecombe, Will

Jackson.

Brown, George Inmon, Andrew Ables, Jake Griffin, Nelson Duke,

The bride is the daughter of Nameh and Dawin Salem of Jackson. She is the granddaughter of Sharon Abide and the late Mr. George Victor Abide of Rogers, Arkansas, and the late Dr. and

William Vaughn and Will Jarrett.

On the Friday before the wedding, the bride was honored by her mother’s friends with a bridesmaid’s brunch at the home of Stick and Shawna Young. The groom was honored with a “BBQ

friend of the bride’s family. Scripture readers were Mari Brian Crick

& Skeet Shoot” lunch at Tallahatchie Flats by the bride’s uncle,

and Anne Craig Melton of Greenwood.

Mark Bowie.

Escorted by her grandfather, Abbey wore a Stella York classic

On the eve of the wedding, the groom’s grandparents and

gown with a sweetheart neckline and open back featuring a lace

bride’s mother hosted a rehearsal dinner at the Museum of the

and beaded bodice with a ballerina-inspired tulle skirt. The gown

Mississippi Delta also catered by Karyn Burrus of Grapevine

and matching veil were chosen at Amelia Grace Bridal of

Catering. Following the rehearsal dinner, a post toast after-party

Greenwood.

was held in the lobby of The Alluvian, where Stephen Pillow The coordinator for the wedding weekend was Pryor

Shelby Malouf Barret, Neely Young Ellis, Merritt Belk Harris, Kaitlin

Hackleman of A Pryor Engagement. Flowers were created by Kim

Bunch, Jane Mortimer Nicholson, Elizabeth Costa Farris,

Kellum, cousin of the bride, of Grapevine Florals. Matthew Moore

The groom is the son of Mary Anna Davis and the late Dr.

and Nell Salem and Sharron Ritarose Abide served as the flower

McKenzie Amis, and Laine Wilson Vandevender. The proxy bride

of Third Bird Films was the wedding videographer and Patrick

Kenneth Bruce Davis, junior, of Cleveland, Mississippi. He is the

girls. Father Joe Tonos, of Saint Richard Catholic Church in Jackson,

was Mary Shelton Bond. The bridesmaids wore floor-length

Remington served as photographer for the weekend. Décor was

grandson of the late Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Bruce Davis of

officiated the wedding Mass.

dresses of various styles, each in a different shade of blush,

provided by Details of Oxford. Angie Cole was the live painting

champagne, and pewter, and all individually chosen.

artist at the reception.

Texarkana, Arkansas, and the late Mr. and Mrs. Thaddeus Jones Davis, junior, of Marion, Alabama.

Attending the bride as matron of honor was her sister, Marjorie Salem Houff of Spring Hill, Tennessee, with Catherine Blake Jernigan of Nashville, Tennessee, serving as maid of honor. Bridesmaids were

Following the ceremony, the reception was held at The Capital

Lyle Dilworth served as his grandson’s best man. Groomsmen

Following the wedding, the couple enjoyed a week’s stay on

eve of the wedding at Char Restaurant in Jackson. After a two-week

included Tony Clay Marley, Caleb Dodson, Gage Long, T.J.

the island of St. Lucia. Mr. and Mrs. Hanks reside in Greenwood

honeymoon in London, England, and Sorrento, Italy, the couple is

Russell, Jon Walhood, Rod Freeman, Seth Vance, Trippe Pilgrim,

where Abbey is the marketing director of The Mississippi Gift

Barrett Johnson, Cody Britt, and Bo Armstrong.

Company and Brandon continues to farm in the Doddsville area.

Club in downtown Jackson. The rehearsal dinner was held on the

Kaela Smyth LeDoux, Natalie Smyth, Mary Catherine Morrison,

at home in Jackson’s Belhaven neighborhood. The bride works in

Malorie Luckett Salem, Rachel Wirtz Salem, Emma Crosby, Lexie

medical device sales with Intuitive Surgical, and the groom is an

Hill Grisanti, Catherine Wohner, Allie Jones, and Gabby Cannon

attorney with Copeland, Cook, Taylor & Bush, P.A.

Four horizontal photos Up to 900-950 word write-up

provided entertainment.

Goldberg Bryant attended as matron of honor. Bridesmaids were

Robert Salem and David Houff, junior, served as ring bearers,

Mrs. Yacoub Salem of Amioun, Lebanon.

photos

a fishing trip in Cabo San Lucas.

Caroline Colquett. Music was provided by organist David Williamson, along with vocalist Cissye Meeks Gallagher, a lifelong

Mary Holly Lott attended the bride as maid of honor, while Erin

Marshall Fratesi, Patrick Salem, and Jacob Salem. Ushers were

Two vertical

Greenwood friends at the Museum of the Mississippi Delta, and

Shelby and the late Carl Hayden Hanks. He is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Lyle Dilworth of Shelby, and the late Mr. and Mrs. William

by the Reverend Don Chancellor. The ceremony was directed by

Attending the groom as best man was Michael Oleis of Nashville,

FORMAL

The couple was honored with several parties prior to the wedding including a New Year’s Eve engagement party held by

The groom is the son of Ms. Belinda Dilworth Pinckard of

Anagrace Sharron Salem and Kenneth Bruce Davis III were

HANKS

Episcopal Church of the Nativity • Greenwood • Patrick Remington Photography

Cathedral of Saint Peter the Apostle • Jackson • Patrick Remington Photography

Following the ceremony, the bride’s mother hosted the

McDonald.

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Formal: One vertical photo Two horizontal photos Up to 450-500 word write-up

4

ANNOUNCEMENTS

BROCK

BROOKS

First Presbyterian Church • Greenwood • Mackenzie Rue with Taylor Square Photography

2

ANNOUNCEMENTS

KINNEY

MARTIN

VISUAL

Miramar Beach • Miramar Beach, Florida • Photography by Miranda Stallings

Three vertical photos Five horizontal photos Anne Darrington Brock

Katherine Ann Kinney Wedding Date Bride’s Parents Groom’s Parents Wedding Gown Wedding Planner Reception Venue Floral Design Catering Wedding Cake Entertainment Bride’s Hair and Makeup Invitations and Stationery Honeymoon Location

& John Madison Brooks IV

Wedding Date Bride’s Parents Groom’s Parents Wedding Gown Wedding Planner Reception Venue Floral Design Catering Wedding Cake Grooms Cake Entertainment Bride’s Hair and Makeup Bride’s Makeup Invitations and Stationery Honeymoon Location

& William Clayton Martin

Vendor details

December 16, 2023 Mr. and Mrs. Henry Donald Brock, junior Mr. and Mrs. John Madison Brooks III and Mr. and Mrs. John Miller Bush II Monique Lhuillier from Elle James Bridal Pryor Hackleman, A Pryor Engagement The Historic Elks Lodge A Pryor Engagement, Mississippi Flower Co. Sookie’s Catering Ellen Cookies Grapevine Cakes, Catering and Floral Compozitionz The Collective Salon Rivers Countiss Keyes Rebekah Caraway Design & Paper St. Lucia

168 | MARCH/APRIL 2024

September 29, 2023 Mr. Wesley Kinney and Mrs. Carol Kinney Mr. and Mrs. Russell Martin BHLDN RaeBird Weddings + Events Gray Whale, Miramar Beach Forget Me Knot Event Florals & Rentals Artistic Catering Sweetly Sisters B-Boy Productions Kendra K Beauty Minted Oyster Bay, Jamaica

DELTA MAGAZINE 2024 | 189

Visual: Two vertical photos

5

ANNOUNCEMENTS

SHEPPARD

Two horizontal photos Vendor details

MILLER

The Peabody Memphis • Memphis, Tennessee • BN Creative Photography

VISUAL Announcement information can be found online at deltamagazine.com/weddings. Chosen form will provide prompts to upload announcement or details (Word, Pages, or PDF) and all photos. Please provide high-resolution images. Screenshots of write ups or photos will not be accepted. Each announcement will have the option to upload an additional 25 photos for the wedding showcase feature. Please read the instructions carefully!

Three vertical photos (Specify which photo to be full page)

Two horizontal photos Mimi Abbott Sheppard Wedding Date Bride’s Parents Groom’s Parents Wedding Gown Reception Venue Floral Design Catering Wedding Cake Bride’s Hair Bride’s Makeup Invitations and Stationery Honeymoon Location

& J Grady Pacifici Miller

Vendor details

June 10, 2023 Mr. and Mrs. William Merritt Sheppard Mrs. Theresa Pacifici Biro and Mr. Eric Dodd Miller Theia from Maggie Louise Bridal Charlie Vergos Rendezvous Michelle Sheppard and Cissye Gallagher Charlie Vergos Rendezvous PattiCakes Bakery Angela McCaleb from Salon Haven Elizabeth Gallagher Ménage Fine Stationery & Gifts Rosemary Beach, Florida

200 | MARCH/APRIL 2024

For questions or assistance contact 662.843.2700 or weddings@deltamagazine.com

LETTERS SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 202

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Annual Outdoor & Hunting Issue Old Game, New Generation Mahjong: Making a Comeback

Fall Decor TIPS

Apples & Apps Desserts and Appetizers for Fall

2024 DELTA DOG Photo Contest Winners

This was our first experience with Delta Magazine, and all I can say is wow! An Argentinian duck hunt by my hunting guide business, Trophys Unlimited, was featured in the hunting section of the September/ October issue.

What a great article and the artwork is amazing. I can tell the staff at Delta Magazine takes great pride in their work. The response to our article has been very positive, and it’s exciting to be featured. Thank you again for including us!

Jay Cranford Macon, Georgia HOMES

HANNAH JOYCE

Salvaged rusty tin is used for ceiling material in many of the newly redesigned rooms, adding a unique and handsome aesthetic.

Oxford, Memphis, of course, and even New Orleans. Delta Magazine’s reach shows just how much the Delta is representative of the best of Mississippi culture. I believe your advertisers are getting more than their money’s worth for the kind of geographic and demographic reach you have.

You all have been a joy to work with, and I really appreciate both our new business relationship and our new friendships.

J. Wilson Hunt Memphis, Tennessee When I opened the September/ October issue of Delta Magazine, I turned to the fall recipes and was not disappointed! I love apple desserts and recipes, but I may have found a new favorite— the Skillet Apple Pie recipe! It was so simple, so rich, and absolutely delicious. My family loved it, too—so I know I will make it on repeat!

Thank you for always sharing such wonderful recipes.

Kay Downs Boyle, Mississippi

HANNAH JOYCE

White shiplap and dark trim brighten the new card room furnished with an oriental rug, a heavy, expandable, game table, and leather captain’s chairs.

T

J. Wilson Hunt

he Mississippi Delta’s sway on Memphis native Wilson Hunt’s growing-up years still influences his designs, which is evident in some way in each of his projects. Hunt, of J. Wilson Hunt Design in Memphis, spent much of his childhood visiting his maternal grandparents, Steve and Lucile Finlay, in their Greenville home in the iconic Gamwyn Park neighborhood. His grandmother watched as he assembled

From hunting lodges to stately residences, Memphis designer Wilson Hunt brings the architectural influence of the Mississippi Delta into every project BEFORE

BY JANE GULLY

78 | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2024

complex structures from children’s blocks and marveled at his natural ability to create make-believe buildings, seeming to understand how a building should be put together. “They would take me exploring through town when I was there on a visit,” says Hunt. “We would

drive through the nice neighborhoods to look at all the really neat houses, and I can remember paying close attention to their style,” he says.

At the same time, Hunt spent time with his paternal grandfather, Jack Hunt, Sr., a contractor in Memphis, exploring the neighborhoods and showing him how buildings and houses were built.

And with this, a passion was sparked.

Hunt attended Ole Miss for two J. Wilson Hunt years and returned to Memphis, earning a degree in finance from the University of Memphis. He often worked for his contractor father during the summers. After college, Hunt worked as an insurance broker and a banker, but those jobs didn’t satisfy his creative mind. “I was a fourth-generation contractor,” he says. “I’d been around construction my whole life, so I guess it was inevitable that I’d be involved in it somehow.” Hunt eventually became a builder and started his own company building spec houses, then moved on to renovations and custom homes.

Further into his career, with the help of a draftsman, he offered design services to his clients when their projects didn’t warrant the use of a licensed architect. His love of design and the creative outlet it offered grew and became a big part of his business, designing and drawing plans for renovations and modest houses. In the 1990s, some friends approached him about renovating a ranch-style home as a hunting camp, a project, he enthusiastically accepted. As an avid hunter himself, he was well qualified for the project which led to a series of projects that have become a hallmark of his career as a designer.

DELTA MAGAZINE 2024 | 79

I’m writing to say thank you to editor Cindy Coopwood, writer Jane Gully, and the team at Delta Magazine for the feature on my hunting house designs in the September/October issue. I’ve designed sporting buildings for much of the last forty years, mostly in the Delta and North Mississippi, and it’s always a labor of love for me. How nice to receive recognition of your work! All of those houses have brought a lot of pleasure to their members and owners, and I know they are pleased with the response your article has brought as well.

People from all over Mississippi have mentioned the article to me! And, I have been amazed to have heard comments from friends in the Delta, Jackson, Tupelo,

I always joke that when I open the mailbox to see the most recent copy of Delta Magazine that “happy mail” has arrived.

Only that’s really not a joke. Being a proud Deltan, this publication is often my tie back to home. Though all of my family and many friends are still there, I am not able to head the hour and a half north nearly as often as I would like.

From the incredible wedding issue (everyone knows that there’s nothing like a Delta wedding!) to the beautifully decorated homes in the Christmas issue and each one in between, I often sit with a cup of coffee (in my I “heart” the Delta mug, nonetheless) and pour over each one. My longing for this special part of our state never goes away!

Thank you for putting together a publication that highlights our Delta. I have been and always will be a fan and a reader!

Suzanne Barnette Gluckstadt, Mississippi

SEND COMMENTS AND LETTERS TO: editor@deltamagazine.com or Delta Magazine, PO Box 117, Cleveland, MS 38732 18 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

Y’all Said

SOCIAL MEDIA COMMENTS @deltamagazine

We Asked...

Real vs. Faux Christmas Tree social media poll results: Real trees: 33%

Faux trees: 67%

The holiday season will be here in a blink! From the day after Thanksgiving to the night before Christmas—when do you start decorating for Christmas? When do you put up your tree—and is it faux or live?

We always have a live tree! You can’t beat the smell of a LIVE Christmas tree. I never decorate before Thanksgiving and try to keep my Christmas tree up until after Epiphany!

– Laura Howell The day after Thanksgiving is usually the day our tree goes up – Kathryn Taylor Usually by Halloween! It’s fall outside our home and already beginning to be Christmas inside our home!

Because we do not host any of the family get-togethers, I like to go ahead and start decking the halls. Plus, once I go to Mistletoe Marketplace, the holiday season is in full swing for me. I joke that I can enjoy my turkey and dressing with the glow of the Christmas tree lights nearby! – Suzanne Barnette After Thanksgiving. – Camille Ferriss We start the week before Thanksgiving! Thanksgiving is the holiday kickoff! – Katy Coleman Lyon

READER RESPONSE deltamagazine.com The Magic of Mississippi Mahjong Centuries-Old Game Gets New Life in the Delta

BY KELLI WILLIAMS

PRICE ROSSON

ridge, bunco, and backgammon, meet the newest, oldest kid on

the block, mahjong. While the game has been around for hundreds of years, originating in nineteenth-century China, it wasn’t until the 1920s that retailer Abercrombie & Fitch stocked their United States stores with the popular sets and brought the beloved game to the Western world. The game, also spelled mahjong, became quite popular at the time, but interest tapered off over the decades. Similar in strategy and skill to rummy, a successful mahjong round isn’t based entirely on luck per se, but on the player’s knowledge of the game.

The resurgence of the game can be attributed to the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown, when small groups were together with plenty of time on their hands. There has also been a growing popularity of games in general, in an intentional effort to reduce screen time. Whatever the reasons, and although the rules of the game and the fundamentals have been altered somewhat over the years, its love and longevity continue to permeate communities all over the country, and the Delta is no exception.

Price Rosson, owner of Rosson Co. in Cleveland, is spreading the love of mahjong through her town. She became so fond of the game she sought training and is now certified to teach others. She also carries the games, accessories, and supplies in her downtown store.

“It all started when I went on a girls’ trip with my college friends. It rained all weekend, so we basically played seventy-two hours straight of mahjong and I became obsessed,” Rosson explains. “It’s such a fun exchange of laughter and friendly competition. Dallas has had a big boom in the resurgence, and one of my friends there got really into it during COVID and taught us all. I am constantly searching with a

MK DeWeese, Jana Alford, Lacey Miller, Price Rosson, and Corley Mullins gather at Rosson’s home for a game of poolside mahjong.

PHOTOS: PRICE ROSSON

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Companies are modernizing the look of mahjong, offering brightly colored sets and complementing accessories. A perfect springboard to create a fun and exciting tablescape.

vengeance for any type of entertainment outside of a screen, and this is a fun one for all ages,” says Rosson.

While the game’s rules can be confusing

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at first, it’s nothing that a good teacher and several rounds can’t fix.

“It can be very overwhelming when you sit down for the first time to learn all the ins DELTA MAGAZINE 2024 | 57

September-October Issue 2024 The Magic of Mississippi Mahjong by Kelli Williams ~ We LOVE teaching Mahj in the DELTA! Mississippi ladies are sooo fun! – Dallas Mahj Club Yesssss Mahjong! – Bethany McRae, Mahjong Merriment DELTA MAGAZINE 2024

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Straight and Narrow

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE FACEBOOK PAGE OF MISSISSIPPI MEMORIES

Cotton scattered along the shoulders of the Mississippi Delta highways and turnrows, having fallen from cotton trailers on their way to the local gin, has been a familiar sight for travelers for many decades, as pictured in this 1939 photo of a lone vehicle on Highway 49 near Clarksdale. DM

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At Bolivar Women’s Clinic, we know that every woman’s health journey is unique. That’s why our experienced OB/GYN team, led by Dr. Bradley Baugh, is here to provide compassionate, personalized care for every stage of life—from your first exam to pregnancy and beyond.

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ON THE ROAD

where we’ve been, where to go next

WASHINGTON COUNTY

TUPELO

Mural artist Gavin Bird’s new work welcoming visitors to Greenville. – GAVIN BIRD

WASHINGTON COUNTY

Memorial to the Tupelo women’s Christian Temperance Union circa 1908. – LARRY HENDERSON

PHOTO OPS Hand-hewn canoes, several centuries old displayed at the Mississippi Wildlife Heritage Museum in Leland – DM STAFF

BOLIVAR COUNTY

SUNFLOWER COUNTY

Near the town of Drew a field of solar panels is an unfamiliar sight, but one that’s becoming more common all over the country. – ROBERT SKRMETTA

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A stunning early autumn view of Old River, an oxbow lake on the Mississippi River. – NANCY FRANKLIN

TUPELO HELENA, ARKANSAS

Retro advertisements are a nod to days gone by in downtown Tupelo. – LARRY HENDERSON

COAHOMA COUNTY

A memorial to a loyal dog who refused to leave the gravesite of his owner who died in 1893. – LARRY HENDERSON

& FUNKY STOPS

A local favorite, and always a good time, at Hopson Commissary in Clarksdale. – VISIT THE MISSISSIPPI DELTA

ROSEDALE ROLLING FORK

The Delta has a rich Chinese heritage, with longestablished Chinese grocery stores and restaurants in most towns. – SEAN JOHNSON

Desolate yet lovely, a perfectly manicured winter field is a study in browns and grays. – ROBERT SKRMETTA Instagram users, follow @deltamagazine

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Serio’s Italian Steakhouse is a Delta dining destination to be enjoyed by all with its broad offering of steaks, seafood and traditional Italian dishes. A classic white tablecloth steakhouse environment provides a unique collection of dining options, including private booths, the casual coziness of the 昀replace room, as well as outdoor cour tyard seating.

O PEN F OR D INNE R TUESDAY-SATURDAY 5-9 PM Closed Sunday and Monday

662-453-4826 506 Yalobusha Street • Greenwood, Mississippi

@serios_greenwood

seriosrestaurant.com

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OFF THE BEATEN PATH roaming the real and rustic Delta

MCANERNEY’S RESTAURANT A hidden gem in Carroll County

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CANERNEY’S RESTAURANT IN MCCARLEY, OFFERS HOSPITALITY, GREAT FOOD, AND THE POWER OF COMMUNITY. Owned by Kelly and Melanie Welch,

McAnerney’s is a favorite spot for customers seeking a mix of down-home comfort and culinary indulgence. Open on Friday and Saturday nights, this laid-back, southernstyle eatery has attracted customers for nearly two decades.

“It’s almost certain you’ll walk in and run into a friend or family member,” Kelly says. “If not, you’ll walk out feeling like one!”

The Welches purchased McAnerney’s in 2006, but the restaurant’s story began almost ten years earlier. Originally opened by Mickey and Pam Carpenter, it changed hands several times before Kelly and Melanie took over.

Together, they’ve created a space that feels like a second home to their Carroll County community. “It all came together with steady hands helping through the years and loyal customers who’ve been with us from the start,” Kelly reflects.

Step into McAnerney’s, and you’ll immediately feel the charm. “It’s laid-back and southern style,” Kelly says. “We offer a mom-and-pop atmosphere that encourages customers to feel right at home.”

McAnerney’s is known for its steaks, with filets and ribeyes topping the menu, but they offer much more than beef. “We also have assortments of seafood,” Kelly says.

“Our most popular appetizer has long been the Boom Shrimp, which is fried shrimp cooked in our Boom Boom sauce and topped with a pinch of basil.”

The Southern fried catfish, cooked to perfection by their fryer, Gene Hooks, is another crowd favorite. “What sets our dishes apart is the flavor and quality,” Kelly says.

“We use simple ingredients that consistently deliver fantastic taste.”

Operating only two nights a week might seem limiting, but Kelly sees it as an advantage, allowing them to deliver top-notch service and ensure every customer feels like family.

Kelly explained, “We’ve started pushing reservations because we can only fit a small number of customers at a time. Many make their reservations weeks in advance, or at least the week of.”

When asked about his favorite thing about running McAnerney’s, Kelly did not hesitate, “Being a lifelong resident of Carroll County, being able to work where we’ve planted roots is one of the biggest blessings of my life,” he says. “This is home, and we get to invite all our friends into it every weekend.”

4398 County Road 282, McCarley; 662.614.2922 Facebook: McAnerneys 30 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

Simple ingredients of the finest quality are the star of McAnerney’s menu which features incredible steaks, seafood dishes, and more.

THE LOUNGING HOUND Curated eclectic vintage finds

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HE LOUNGING HOUND IS KNOWN FOR ITS VINTAGE FURNISHINGS, ART, TEXTILES, AND ODDITIES, ALL CURATED BY HAYDEN HITER GUEST. Growing up in

Hayden Guest, pictured with her own “lounging hound” offers eclectic vintage furnishings, art, and unusual accessories at her new shop in Taylor.

Merigold and Cleveland, Guest had a very Delta upbringing. However, she has spent most of her adult life living and working in Oxford, Mississippi.

Her creative path has been well-trodden to the community of Taylor, Mississippi. Guest regularly commutes from town to country, hauling her latest finds from picking trips around the globe. She curates and photographs them at a space along the hamlet of shops in downtown Taylor that she shares with Nicole Harlow of Niett Metals. Their shared space is next to the iconic Taylor Grocery.

The Lounging Hound is named endearingly after her beagle and her love of the hunt. It all began as a journey to find unique and aged items for her home’s recent renovation project. However, a trip to Round Top, Texas, was the tipping point that made her realize she wanted to do this for others and continue the hunt indefinitely.

The Lounging Hound specializes in pieces that add an eclectic vibe to an interior. In a world of duplication, Guest has a knack for standing out by finding treasures that look like nothing you’ve ever seen before. Flat weave vintage rugs, antique oil portraits, mid-century pieces, and especially unique chairs are just some of the things you might find in her ever-changing collection.

Before starting The Lounging Hound, Guest worked in the tourism and event industries for fifteen, years where she wrapped up her career as director of the Oxford Conference Center. Her experience in this field has been a great indicator of how she would run her business.

While the brick-and-mortar space is by pop-up or appointment only, you should peek in the window while dining at Taylor Grocery. Guest has plans to do more pop-up shopping events with other complementary sellers, artists, and makers.

4b First Street, Taylor; 662.816.7999 Instagram: @the_lounging_hound lounginghoundms@gmail.com

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HOT TOPICS WE WILL NOT BE HOME BY CHRISTMAS Yazoo City author honors military men and women with new book “Dale has compiled a collection of wartime nostalgia not found in history books. Every soldier, sailor, airman, spaceman, and Marine wants to be home for Christmas—a tribute to those who make it possible for everyone else to be Home for Christmas,” says Robert J. Bailey, president emeritus G.V. “Sonny” Montgomery Foundation, and Vietnam War veteran.

Retired US Army Lieutenant Colonel Dale Beasley, has himself experienced not being home for Christmas while on active duty in a war zone. In this coffee table book, he has captured the essence of the military men and women, serving in war zones or not, hoping to be home for Christmas but knowing they will not. The photos, letters, and memorabilia displayed throughout this attractive book will warm the hearts of the many who served, as well as the parents, spouses, and other loved ones who have had to spend holidays away from home and family.

“Being separated from family at Christmas is one of the hardest sacrifices we ask of our women and men in uniform. Dale’s collection is a poignant reminder of how those in service have always found ways to celebrate the sacred amidst the chaos and horror of war,” says retired US Army Brigadier General James H. Mason.

In addition to the American military, the author has included

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Dale Beasley

exciting photos and memorabilia of the British, French, and Germans from World War I and World War II and Americans from the Korean War. The profits from the sale of this book go to support Wreaths Across America. This non-profit organization honors veterans by placing wreaths on their graves in national and state veteran cemeteries across America every December.

“This book is my way of honoring those who gave their last full measure of devotion. I have chosen to follow my father’s philanthropy by donating all profits of this book to Wreaths Across America,” Beasley says.

This book and others by Dale Beasley can be found on the author’s website.

DaleBeasley.com; Instagram: @beaz743

ELLA + BEE BAKERY Sweet Confections with a star-studded twist What do Dr. Dre, Erykah Badu, Journey, and Elon Musk have in common? They’ve all enjoyed the sweet confections crafted by Trace Williams of Indianola.

And now you can sample the same sweets the stars gobbled up.

With Ella + Bee Bakery, Trace turned her passion for pastry into a business, taking the Delta by storm.

While serving as a pastry chef at NOLA Restaurant, Williams sold her baked goods at local farmers markets. They were met with rave reviews, leading her to start Ella + Bee. The bakery operates as delivery-only, but Williams plans to open a retail location soon.

“I don’t want to jump into a location that’s not good for our customers. Accessibility is important to me,” she says.

Ella + Bee’s menu features a range of products, from seasonal pies and King Cakes to everyday favorites like cinnamon rolls and French bread. The bakery has also introduced such eclectic items as dulce de leche rolls and breads inspired by her Italian-Argentinian husband’s heritage.

A fan favorite is the dulce de leche cheesecake, a goodie that’s become a runaway hit in the Delta. The bakery also carries seasonal pies, including peach pie during the summer and intricately decorated pies for Thanksgiving and Easter.

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Ella + Bee also takes custom orders for special occasions like birthdays and weddings.

While Williams’ career highlights include being a private chef for Elon Musk and a tour chef for the band Journey, her focus now is on bringing a touch of that star-studded culinary expertise to the Delta.

“I’ve cooked for some really notable folks, but the biggest joy is when the little old lady who lives alone comes to the farmers market, buys one of my pies, and says it’s the best pie she’s ever had,” she reflects. For Williams, the joy of baking is about more than just the recipes—it’s about making people happy with food that feels special.

Looking ahead, Williams has big plans for Ella + Bee. She hopes her retail bakery will be a gathering place for the community, where “all the humans in the Delta” can enjoy delicious pastries, great coffee, and good company.

Her journey has been anything but ordinary. Yet, she’s found a way to bring her passion for pastry full circle, using it to brighten the lives of those around her, one bite at a time.

925.209.4504, Delivery and TSC Farmers Market pop-ups Cheftrace@me.com; Facebook: Ella + Bee

GOODNESS GRACIOUS, GREAT BALLS OF FIRE! Jerry Lee Lewis statue unveiled in Southaven There was a whole lotta shakin’ goin’ on in Southaven recently as a statue honoring one of its most iconic residents, the late, great Jerry Lee Lewis, was unveiled. He spent his final years in Southaven (passing in 2022), and it is fittingly there that the statue now stands.

Jerry Lee and his wife, Judith Coghlan Lewis, moved to Southaven in 2018 when the city quickly embraced the legend as one of their own. Jerry Lee had the honor of blessing the memorial idea before his passing. “We had no idea the mayor would come to our home and talk to us about what he wanted to do,” Judith says. “Jerry Lee was touched. It touched his heart and mine.”

“We wanted to celebrate Jerry Lee not just as a musical icon but as a part of our community,” explained Lexie Hill Grisanti, part of the project’s planning team.

The unveiling in late September featured musical performances that honored the legendary performer’s lifetime of contributions to the industry. The life-sized bronze statue will forever sit at the Lucky Dog Music Hall & Bar, a live-music venue located inside Southaven’s Silo Square.

“There’s something special about having this statue outside a live-

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music venue,” Grisanti noted. “It’s like Jerry Lee is still here, inspiring musicians to push boundaries just like he did.”

The statue, created by artist Sonja Metzler, captures Lewis in an electrifying pose—standing at his piano, kicking back his stool, and even incorporates flames into the design, a nod to his famous onstage antics and occasional burning of pianos.

“What’s remarkable about the statue is how it captures Jerry Lee’s energy and showmanship,” Grisanti shared. “From the kicked-back stool to the piano set aflame, you can see the essence of what made him a rock-n-roll pioneer.”

“The statue is a lasting tribute to a man who helped shape the course of music history,” Grisanti says.

“Southaven was his home, and we’re proud to honor him this way.”

“I hope this statue will remind people of Jerry Lee’s music legacy. That’s what he wanted, people to remember him for his music,” Judith says. “I know his spirit is here, and he’s thrilled. And I want people to remember him as the most loving, caring, Godly, and amazing person that he was.”

Located in Silo Square, 2903 May Boulevard, Southaven silosquarems.com

BIG STORIES, TINY WORLDS Greenwood Museum features works of miniaturist Lee Harper Great things come in small packages.

And we’re not talking about Tiffany’s iconic little blue boxes, but the incredible creations of artist Lee Harper— miniature, highly detailed replicas of some of Mississippi’s most historical and sometimes forgotten buildings.

This December, the Museum of the Mississippi Delta in Greenwood will come alive with Lee’s works that capture the spirit of the region.

The exhibit will feature several new pieces, including a model of the Junior Kimbrough juke joint, a place that played a pivotal role in the Delta’s musical history. In addition, Harper is bringing a few of her previous works, which she borrowed from private collectors.

“I’m inspired by places that have lots of character or history. Older buildings are a lot more fun to make than new ones,” Harper shared.

“The Delta is packed with fascinating spots, with all of the music, food, culture, and people it holds,” she says.

From juke joints to forgotten homes, Harper captures the places that are meaningful to those who lived, loved, and worked in them.

“Some of the places I’ve made have burned down or been torn away by hurricanes. Some have just crumbled over time,” Harper

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reflects. In her hands, however, these places live on, carefully preserved for future generations to experience.

Her approach is fluid and instinctual, figuring out how to build it as she’s going. “People ask me what scale I work in, and I just tell them I don’t,” she laughed. “I eyeball things until they look like I think they should.”

For Harper, the most rewarding part is adding the final details—the worn textures, the broken fences, the uneven rooftops—that make her work so distinctive. “I want water stains, worn footpaths, funky wiring. Those are the details that bring a place to life,” she explained.

“There are worlds of stories that people hold that no one knows about because history books only have room for so much,” she explained. Her mission is to find those stories and bring them to life.

In her upcoming exhibit at the Museum of the Mississippi Delta, Harper hopes people will connect with her work in personal ways. “I want people to remember these places, to think about the stories that made them special,” she says.

1608 US Highway 82, Greenwood; 662.453.0925 Facebook: Museum of the Mississippi Delta; Instagram: @museumofmsdelta DELTA MAGAZINE 2024

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Building a stronger grid And a brighter future These are exciting days in Mississippi. New industries and new jobs are moving to our state along with record investments.

Entergy is already hard at work to stay ahead of increasing power demands in our growing communities.

We’re not only adding more power generation, but diversifying our energy sources with cleaner and more efficient power generation. This diversified mix will help ensure long-term affordability and reliability for all of our customers.

Scaling up the grid also gives us the opportunity to upgrade infrastructure and technology throughout our system – ensuring a stronger and brighter future for Mississippi. Learn more at entergy.com/brightfuturems.

A message from Entergy Mississippi, LLC ©2024 Entergy Services, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

Shop Local. Eat Local. tis the season to

enjoy GREENVILLE WE MAKE BANKING PERSONAL

www.Planters-Bank.com 36 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

Good Times in Greenville

38 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

The Heart and Soul of the Delta

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BOOKS Playground by Richard Powers (W.W. Norton & Company) Powers, as he did with Overstory, has written another novel of such great importance in Playground, his latest release. The novel follows four protagonists—a teacher, an artist, an AI pioneer, and a marine biologist—whose work leads them to the island of Makatea, where there is an effort to pilot a seasteading program that would send floating, autonomous cities out into the ocean. This island in the vast Pacific has only eighty-two residents who must choose between their economy and the ocean. Powers weaves multiple storylines together to deliver a startling, eye-opening story through his rich language and compelling characters, personalizing and bringing together issues having to do with AI, environmentalism, and our shared humanity. Throughout the book is the Richard Powers powerful theme of play, how all creatures are connected to nature through it.

(Liza Jones)

The Story of a Heart: Two Families, One Heart, and the Medical Miracle That Saved a Child’s Life by Dr. Rachel Clarke (Scribner) The Story of a Heart, a non-fiction narrative by Dr. Rachel Clarke, will have readers in awe with its perfect blend of emotion, medical knowledge, and inspiration. Keira was in a tragic car accident that left her brain-dead while her heart lived on. At the same time, Max had recently fallen critically ill and needed a heart transplant. After Keira’s family decides to donate her heart, Max’s life is saved through a miraculous transplant, the details of which are confounding. When Max’s family sends a thank-you letter to the family of the anonymous donor through a large British newspaper, Keira’s mother suspects Max carries her daughter’s heart and reaches out to his mother. The real beauty of the Dr. Rachel Clarke story is when the two families of these children join forces. This is such a well-written, deeply moving story that will give chills and warm the heart, the body’s magic life-giver. (Liza Jones) Shy Creatures by Clare Chambers (Mariner Books) Clare Chambers has created a beautiful, quiet novel about relationships and identity with her latest novel, Shy Creatures. Helen is an art therapist working in a psychiatric hospital in 1960s London. When William, a man in his late thirties with artistic talent, is found mute and bedraggled after being shut in with his aunts since he was a child, she is intrigued with his story despite the complexities of her own. In discovering William’s past, she uncovers a shocking secret after his story is meticulously peeled back through another timeline. Exploring themes of connection, control, and mental health, this novel is a compassionate, tender read wherein the characters lead the way with their vulnerability. (Liza Jones)

Buzzworthy Comments

We asked Facebook friends and the Delta Magazine fan page group members to share their favorite book about Christmas.

o Terri Farmer Holt, retired West, Mississippi

The Bible: Luke, Chapter 2 o Brenda Grubb, retired Moorhead, Mississippi

The birth of Christ as recorded in the Bible. o Mit York, insurance adjuster Vicksburg, Mississippi

The Legend of Papa Noel: A Cajun Christmas Story

by Terri Hoover Dunham o Polly Anne McMath McKaskle, retired Isola, Mississippi

A Christmas Carol

by Charles Dickens o Anita Grossman Horn, retired Pine, Colorado

Winter Solstice

by Rosamunde Pilcher

Clare Chambers

For the Record Books Delta Magazine fans are currently reading o Donna Stowers Pittman Hillbilly Elegy

by J.D. Vance

o Rosalind Mann Rosenburg The Silent Patient

by Alex Michaelides

o Trina Gilbert Douglas Bonhoeffer

by Eric Metaxas

o Lynn D. Delas The Shop of Royal Street

by Karen White 42 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

o Jack Gazelle The Barn

by Wright Thompson

o Jill-Curry Smith Henderson Invisible Man

by Ralph Ellison

o Jennifer Kitkowski The Women

by Kristin Hanna

o Polly Anne McMath McKaskle The Devil at His Elbow

by Valerie Bauerlein

o Anita Grossman Horn Then She Was Gone

by Lisa Jewell

o Jim Fraiser Clete

by James Lee Burke

o Sherry Childs Southern Man

by Greg Isles

o Brenda Grubb Can’t Hurt Me

by David Goggins

Wichita Blues: Music in the African American Community

by Patrick Joseph O’Connor (University Press of Mississippi) In conversations on regional blues, the traditions of the Mississippi Delta, the Carolina Piedmont, Chicago, Houston, Memphis, New Orleans, and Los Angeles are frequently lauded.

But until now, little attention has been paid to the Midwest despite the presence and popularity of blues in these heartland communities. Wichita Blues: Music in the African American Community seeks to address this gap in music history by exploring the lively Wichita blues tradition. In interviews with nineteen African American Wichita blues performers, author Patrick Joseph O’Connor reveals the evolution of the blues from the 1930s to the 1960s and beyond.

Utilizing twenty-five years of fieldwork, Wichita Blues details the history of performance and camaraderie among the musicians of this often-neglected regional sound. (DM Staff ) All the Things We Didn’t Say: Two Memoirs by Marion Garrard Barnwell and Mary DuBose Trice Clark (University Press of Mississippi) In this poignant and introspective dual memoir, Marion Garrard Barnwell embarks on a deeply personal journey. Inspired by the memoir of her maternal grandmother, Mary DuBose Trice Clark, affectionately known as “Ganny,” the narratives, though separated by decades, are brought together to offer readers a unique and moving exploration of growing up in Mississippi and the intersections of family, motherhood, and self-discovery.

Clark’s memoir, penned in 1956, offers readers a glimpse into the past, telling the story of her life in Mississippi with unwavering commitment to “just plain facts.” Her narrative traverses the landscapes of Okalona, Nettleton, Verona, and Tupelo, revealing their histories and the vibrant tapestry of her life while artfully sidestepping the complexities of her relationships and emotional vulnerabilities. Reflecting on an era when discussions of emotion and self-awareness were often shrouded in reticence, Clark’s story leaves a void in which Barnwell seeks to uncover the unspoken truths that shaped their family dynamics. (DM Staff ) The Realms of Oblivion: An Excavation of the Davies Manor Historic Site's Omitted Stories by Andrew C. Ross (Vanderbilt University Press) The Realms of Oblivion explores the complexities involved in reconciling competing versions of history, channeled through Davies Manor, a historic site near Memphis that once centered on a wealthy slave-owning family’s sprawling cotton plantation.

Interrogating the forces of memorialization that often go unquestioned in the stories we believe about ourselves and our communities, this book simultaneously tells an informative and engrossing bottom-up history—of the Davies family, of the Black families they enslaved and exploited across generations, and of Memphis and Shelby County—while challenging readers to consider just what upholds the survival of that history into the present day.

Written in an engaging and critical style, The Realms of Oblivion is grounded in a rich source base, ranging from nineteenth-century legal records to the personal papers of the Davies family to twentieth-century African American oral histories. (DM Staff) DM

Childrenʼs

For the Family

Hometown

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32.4364, -90.1465 Renaissance at Colony Park festive finds

Wrap it in Ridgeland this holiday season!

Ridgeland has everything you need to find the perfect gi . Plan your trip at exploreRidgeland.com.

46 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

n HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

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holiday

Gift ideas for everyone on your list!

gift guide

❋ Vietri Old St Nick Platter Mimi’s on Main, Senatobia Instagram: @mimisonmain Facebook: Mimi’s On Main 662.562.8261

❋ Pink Martini Ornament Donna Wadford Interior & Gifts, Senatobia Facebook: Donna Wadford Interior & Gifts 901.605.5597

❋ Hey Jesus, It's Me Book Hilarious and relatable, the debut book by Instagram star and comedian Ellen Skrmetti is a fantastic gift!

Instagram: @justskrmetti worthypub.com/heyjesus, amazon.com

Grab these for your Thanksgiving table!

❋ Turkey Die Cut

Paper Placemats

Viking Cooking School, Greenwood Instagram: @thevikingcookingschool facebook.com/VikingcookingschoolGreenwood viking-cooking-school.myshopify.com 662.451.6750

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

2024

❋ Night Before Christmas Candle

by Glasshouse Fragrances

Instagram: @theolivetreestarkville facebook.com/theolivetreestarkville theolivetreestarkville.com 662.722.3019

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❋ Handblown Glass Match Striker Hunt and Bloom, Houston, Texas Instagram: @shophuntandbloom facebook.com/huntandbloom huntandbloom.com 713.364.3552 50 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

n ❋ Acrylic Ice Bucket Viking Cooking School, Greenwood Instagram: @thevikingcookingschool facebook.com/VikingcookingschoolGreenwood viking-cooking-school.myshopify.com 662.451.6750

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Mod + Proper, Cleveland Instagram: @modandproper facebook.com/modandproper shopmodandproper.com 662.400.3111

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

❋ Holiday Martini Glasses

❋ Custom Monogrammed Hand Towel

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

The Brooks Collection, Collierville Instagram: @thebrookscollection Facebook: The Brooks Collection thebrookscollection.com 901.853.9767

❋ Christmas Candy Cane Ruffle Romper ❋ The Night Before

Young Ideas, Indianola Instagram: @young_ideas; facebook.com/YoungIdeasShoppe youngideasms.com; 662.887.5539

Christmas Book

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Punkin Patch, Cleveland Instagram: @punkinpatchcleveland facebook.com/punkinpatchcleveland destination.tours/punkin-patch 662.843.0434

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

❋ Girls’ Hearts Weekender Bag Sprout, Greenwood Instagram: @shopsproutgreenwood facebook.com/shopsproutgreenwood shopsproutgreenwood.com 662.219.0327

❋ Vintage Bookshelf Edition Games

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Great for spend-the-night parties!

Colorful and display-worthy—no more hiding games away in the closet!

Rosson Co., Cleveland Instagram: @rossoncompany facebook.com/RossonCo rossonco.com; 662.843.3986

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❋ Green Velvet Clutch Kittie Kyle, Memphis Instagram: @kittiekyle kittiekyle.com 901.452.2323

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

The perfect touch to elevate your holiday attire all season long!

❋ Dolce Vita Sidon Loafer Mule

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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

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Lavender Lane, Indianola Instagram: @lavenderlaneindianola facebook.com/lavenderlaneindianola lavenderlaneindianola.com 662.452.5131

❋ Long-Sleeved Faux Leather Dress

by Cinq à Sept

Village Tailor, Oxford Instagram: @shopvillagetailor_ facebook.com/villagetailor.oxfordms shopvillagetailor.com 662.234.8217

❋ Diamond Hoop Earrings

gifts for the girls

Van Atkins, New Albany Instagram: @vanatkinsjewelers vanatkins.com 662.534.5012

❋ Dolce Vita Tyrone Suede Boots Mod + Proper, Cleveland Instagram: @modandproper facebook.com/modandproper shopmodandproper.com 662.400.3111

❋ Large Fizzy Hoops by Minnie Lane Kittie Kyle, Memphis Instagram: @kittiekyle facebook.com/kittiekylememphis kittiekyle.com 901.452.2323

❋ Gold Statement Ring Lynbar Jewelers, Greenwood Instagram: @lynbarjewelers Facebook.com/lynbarjewelers lynbarjewelers.com 662.453.2741

❋ Gold Bow Clutch by Loeffler Randall Village Tailor, Oxford Instagram: @shopvillagetailor_ facebook.com/villagetailor.oxfordms shopvillagetailor.com; 662.234.8217 52 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

Sparkle and shine at your holiday party!

❋ Red Sequin Top

Gilbow’s, Cleveland Instagram: @gilbows facebook.com/Gilbows 662.843.1151

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❋ Faherty Sunwashed Navy Plaid Cotton Sport Shirt

❋ Cotton Long-Sleeved Quarter-Zip

by Johnnie-O

George Sherman, Starkville Instagram: @gshermanclothes facebook.com/gshermanclothes georgeshermanclothing.com; 662.323.2326

❋ Sharpe Street Cologne Abraham’s, Cleveland Instagram: @abrahamsclothingcleveland facebook.com/abrahamsclothing abrahamsclothing.com 662.843.4541

Abraham’s signature scent is a must-have.

gifts for the guys

❋ Leg O’Mutton

Breakdown Case

Wren & Ivy, Madison Instagram: @wrenandivybrand facebook.com/@wrenandivybrand wrenandivy.com; 769.300.2739

❋ Patagonia Black Hole Duffel Abraham’s, Cleveland Instagram: @abrahamsclothingcleveland facebook.com/abrahamsclothing abrahamsclothing.com 662.843.4541

❋ Beach Rides: Time Machines for Modern Day Escapists, a Johnny Vacay Book

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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

Kinkade’s, Ridgeland Instagram: @kinkadesfc facebook.com/kinkadesfineclothing kinkades.com; 601.898.0513

Great Scott, Jackson Instagram: @greatscottgents facebook.com/GreatScottGents greatscott.net; 601.984.3500 56 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

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Experience Mississippi’s Premier Christmas Shopping Destination

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

Where you’ll find beautiful surroundings for your holiday celebrations, the perfect holiday attire for you, and the gifts you know they’ll love.

Join us for our

Renaissance Holiday Open House

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Sunday, November 24, 2 pm - 5 pm

❋ Tensaw Jacket by Tom Beckbe

Wren & Ivy, Madison Instagram: @wrenandivybrand facebook.com/@wrenandivybrand wrenandivy.com 769.300.2739

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

❋ Commonwealth Field Bag

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Italian Calf Leather Belt

Kinkade’s, Ridgeland Instagram: @kinkadesfc facebook.com/kinkadesfineclothing kinkades.com 601.898.0513

HOLIDAY SHOPPING & DINING: Aerie • Altar’d State Alterations by Tailor Kim • American Eagle • Angie’s Another Broken Egg Café • Anthony Vince’ Nail Salon Anthropologie • Aplós Simple Mediterranean • Apple Aqua the Day Spa • Aria Boutique • Athleta • AT&T Ava’s Children’s Boutique • BankPlus • Barnes & Noble Booksellers • Barnette’s Salon • Basil’s • BellaChes Specialty Gifts • Brooks Brothers • Buckle • CAET Seafood|Oysterette • Chicken Salad Chick • Chico’s Club Champion • Club Pilates • Columbia Sportswear The Commissary • European Wax • Events by KPEP Five Guys Burgers and Fries • Free People • The Fresh Market • Gifts by KPEP • Hallmark • Highland Park • Hyatt Place Hotel • Inspire Nutrition • Interior Spaces • J.Crew Factory • J.Jill • Jolly Orthodontics • Koestler Prime • Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry • LensCrafters • Libby Story • Local 463 Urban Kitchen • LOFT • lululemon • Magnolia Soap & Bath Co. • Maselle & Associates • Material Girls • Milo + Olive • Mindful Therapy • Mochinut • Mojito’s Cantina & Grill • Monkee’s • The Orvis Co. • Oswego Jewelers Pandora • Panera Bread • Penn Street Investments • Red Square Clothing Co. • Regus • Renaissance Cinema Grill & Bar • Ridgeland Visitors Center • Sand Dollar Lifestyles ScoopDeeDoo Ice Cream • Sephora • Sledge & Co. Smoothie King • Soma Intimates • Starbucks Coffee Sunglass Hut • Talbots • Traditional Jewelers • Vintage Wine Market • Whimsy Cookie Co. • White House|Black Market • Zea Rotisserie & Bar

FIND US ON FACEBOOK

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❋ Martin Dingman Alligator Grain

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

George Sherman, Starkville Instagram: @gshermanclothes facebook.com/gshermanclothes georgeshermanclothing.com 662.323.2326

I-55 at Old Agency Road, Ridgeland, Mississippi | 601.519.0900 See all our retail stores and restaurants online at www.RenaissanceAtColonyPark.com

For leasing information, contact The Mattiace Company at 601.352.1818

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❋ Mississippi State Bulldog and

Ole Miss Rebel Gentlemen’s Glasses

❋ Gourmet Goodies Locally made sauces, seasonings, and snacks make great stocking stuffers for the foodie on your list.

The Mississippi Gift Company Instagram: @themississippigiftcompany facebook.com/TheMississippiGiftCompany msgifts.com; 800.467.7763

A great gift for your SEC enthusiast, a home bar, or gameday condo!

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

Great Scott, Jackson Instagram: @greatscottgents facebook.com/GreatScottGents greatscott.net; 601.984.3500

❋ Golden Retriever

Acrylic Block Ornament,

by Chelsea McShane

Great Scott, Jackson Instagram: @greatscottgents facebook.com/GreatScottGents greatscott.net 601.984.3500

❋ Collegiate Ornaments

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Downtown Marketplace, Yazoo City Instagram: @downtownmarketplace facebook.com/DowntownMarketplace 662.746.5031

❋ Custom Holiday Gift Tags Stovall Collection, Memphis Instagram: @stovallcollection Facebook: Stovall Collection stovallcollection.com; 901.767.8808 58 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

❋ Assorted Pecan Gift Tin Heaton Pecans, Clarksdale Instagram: @heatonpecans Facebook: Heaton Pecans heatonpecans.com; 662.627.7065

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‘Tis the Season to Shop Historic Downtown Cleveland

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215 Cotton Row, Cleveland, MS 38732 | 662.843.7733

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The Delta’s Choice for Custom Jewelry!

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ART

Joey Young Making inspired, functional pottery for daily use in earthy tones borrowed from nature

BY SUSAN MARQUEZ • PHOTOGRAPHY BY AUSTIN BRITT

oey Young is a painter, a potter, a teacher, a cat lover, and a self-professed coleslaw enthusiast. Raised on his parents’ farm outside of Charleston, Mississippi, Young lives with his wife, Hannah, and their son, Noah, on the banks of the Sunflower River in Clarksdale. “We bought an old home on five acres,” he says. “I know it’s too big for us, but I have big plans.”

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Joey Young at the pottery wheel with son Noah, his favorite assistant.

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As a child, Young enjoyed drawing and making things. “I would make things from old scraps of wood I found around the farm, and I used a hot glue gun and sticks to make forts or whatever. I just liked creating things.”

When Young was in the first grade, Bob Richards came to teach art in his classroom. “I still remember it—he made an impression on me,” Young reminisces. Richards later became Young’s art teacher at East Tallahatchie High School. “He sparked my desire to become an artist.”

Whether painting or creating what he refers to as functional pottery in rich earthy tones, Young’s works are Delta-centric and inspired by the landscape.

Young went to Northwest Community College in Senatobia “mostly because that’s where my friends were going.” While there, he majored in art and got into ceramics and painting. Lane Tutor was his art professor at Northwest and significantly influenced Young’s life. “Initially, I thought I was going to major in graphic design. I’m so glad I didn’t. I would have gone crazy sitting in front of a computer all day. He steered me towards ceramics.”

Young continued his art studies at Delta State University—where Ky Johnston was his professor—earning a double major: art education and ceramics, with a minor in painting. “Ky and Pat Brown, my advisor, guided me through all that.”

While in college, Young was exposed to several different cultures and styles of ceramics, but he gravitated toward the simplicity, form, and function of Japanese pottery. “Most of what I make is functional pottery—stoneware with a mid-to-high fire. I like pieces that can be used in daily life.” Inspired by the nature surrounding him, his pottery tends to be mostly earth tones with color schemes borrowed from nature. “But I stretch it a bit. For example, cotton can be white, but I also like to incorporate the colors of cotton in bloom, and all its different phases and forms. I also do some figurative pieces, mostly expressionist work that is very Delta-centric.”

During the COVID pandemic, Young began painting more. “I do a lot of landscapes. I really like the rawness in nature, and I draw inspiration from things we see every day but often take for granted.

For a while, I did a lot of plein air painting around Delta Landing, near Friar’s Point, right off the Mississippi River. But now I have the Sunflower River running through my backyard, so I spend more time painting at home.”

Young says he didn’t plan to stick around the Delta, or Mississippi for that matter, once he finished college. “I started working at Madidi in Clarksdale while finishing college and ended up working restaurant shifts at night while teaching during the day. I finally moved to Clarksdale from Cleveland instead of driving back and forth.”

As he matured, Young says he began to find far more inspiration

One of Young’s unique Delta landscapes.

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Young’s work was featured last year at the Delta Arts Alliance in Cleveland.

Young often uses recycled and refurbished items for his creations as seen here for these whimsical wide-mouth catfish.

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and opportunities with the music and culture in the Delta than he ever thought while growing up. “Despite loving and playing music growing up, it wasn’t until college that I connected the dots with the music and culture that came from here and decided to stay.”

Young graduated from Delta State in 2005 and began teaching in 2006. He worked at the Shack Up Inn for a couple of years while he had a studio/gallery in downtown Clarksdale. The name of his studio was Lambfish Art Company. “There was a sawmill in my hometown of Charleston that burned in the 1930s, and when it did, most of the town burned as well. The two men who owned the sawmill were Mr. Lamb and Mr. Fish. My grandfather built a café on the foundation of the old sawmill office. I briefly had a studio in the old café, which is where the original name of my studio came from. This was prior to my studio in Clarksdale, which I had for twelve years until I closed it in 2020.”

When he closed his studio in town, he moved his kilns to his parents’ farm before buying his current home in Clarksdale. “I have studio space in my home now, which is one reason we bought this house. I’ve been able to consolidate my studio and living space, which has been great for our family. I hope that I can one day hold art workshops here and maybe even house concerts. We’ve already done a few open house events during the holidays.”

It’s not all art all the time for Young, who holds down two teaching jobs. “I teach high school art at Lee Academy and pre-3K through sixth grade at St. Elizabeth Catholic School. My son, who is almost four, is in my pre-3K class, which can be challenging.”

Young’s parents are both teachers and told him that teaching was always an option. “I knew early on that I would need a job if I wanted to make art.”

His teaching schedule allows him the freedom to make art in the afternoons and evenings, as well as during the summer. “We also raise produce in the summer, which we distribute to area restaurants.

We also sell produce at the farmer’s market downtown.” Young uses that opportunity to showcase his pottery as well. “I display all our produce in bowls I’ve made.”

Young has shown his work at the Juke Joint Festival in Clarksdale, Memphis galleries, Delta Rising events in Oxford at the Powerhouse, and Ocean Springs. “I’ve also shown work in Denver, Australia, and Canada.” Last year, he held a show at the Delta Arts Alliance in Cleveland called Recychedelta. Everything in the show was made of recycled and refurbished found items, including wide-mouthed catfish made of smashed aluminum cans and paintings he put into thrifted frames. “I was inspired by an old can a friend found behind Red’s Lounge in Clarksdale. It was smushed, and it looked just like a catfish. I began making them, and they struck a chord with people.”

Joey Young’s work can be found in several shops in the Delta, including Rosson Co. and the Train Museum in Cleveland, at Hambone and Cathead Blues & Folk Art in Clarksdale, The Flower Basket in Charleston, and at Urban Foxes in Jackson. You can also view his work on his Instagram page, @lambfishart. DM

Inspired by nature, Young is fortunate the Sunflower River runs through his property, allowing the artist to paint at home.

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Shop Starkville this Holiday Season

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MUSIC

Dispatches From the Edge Greenville native Ron Etheridge wasn’t “a friend of the devil, but a friend of a friend,” as he sings on his new album, Good Family.

Here’s how he found his way back.

BY JIM BEAUGEZ • PHOTOS COURTESY OF RON ETHERIDGE

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HEN THE DOCTORS BEGAN TO EXPLAIN TO SINGER-SONGWRITER RON ETHERIDGE HOW HE WOULD NEVER PLAY GUITAR OR PIANO AGAIN, HE STOPPED LISTENING.

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The previous few days had been a confusing haze of faces, both familiar and foreign, alongside the bleeps of monitoring equipment and a tangle of plastic tubes attached to machines keeping him alive.

The last thing Etheridge could remember was the morning of November 20, 2019, when he went out to buy cigarettes and guitar strings for a gig he had that night. Around 9 a.m., after a late-night songwriting session bled into daylight, his Nissan Xterra collided with a tractor-trailer. The accident left him paralyzed from the chest down, with a traumatic brain injury, broken vertebrae, a broken wrist, and a long list of cuts and contusions.

He was lucky to be alive. But his troubles were far from over.

Rock bottom was a place Etheridge had grown to know well over years of dalliances with substance abuse and troubles that had once landed him in the Rankin County lockup. Now, unable to do what he loved most—play music, never mind walking—he entered a deep depression that crushed him in ways the accident itself couldn’t. In the end, it almost finished the job.

Etheridge had loved making music since his youth in Greenville, where he sang at Emmanuel Baptist Church. He started playing guitar at age 12 after his father died, and by sixteen, he was playing open mic nights at the downtown bar One Block East.

“One minute you’re playing a twelve-bar blues with the house band, and the next you look over, and you’re playing with Lil’ Bill Wallace, Willie Foster, T-Model Ford—some of the greatest names in what was left of the Delta bluesmen,” he says about those days in the mid-1990s. “You never knew what you were gonna get to see on any given night.”

Stints living in cities like Laurel—where he backed a pre-fame Afroman, the rapper who scored a novelty hit in 2000 with “Because I Got High”—and Nashville followed but didn’t last long compared to the decade he spent in Wilmington, North Carolina, where he made a living as a gigging musician. After he returned to Mississippi, the seasoned songwriter and performer cut the alt-country album There Will Be Wolves for Malaco’s Old Trace Records imprint, which earned him the title Mississippi Songwriter of the Year in 2017.

His hot streak continued until that November morning after he made a voice memo recording of the tune he was writing and then hopped in the driver’s seat. For much of the year following the accident, he stayed in bed, unsure of what else to do. Slowly, though, as he began to question why he was still alive, he could only reach one conclusion: His survival meant that God wanted him here.

“I had this realization that I didn’t have before, and I knew it so deeply that it was a message from God,” he says. “The only thing that made sense to me—that pulled me out of that depression—was that God is real, and God knew that it was important to take my hands so that I had to relearn to appreciate music and the gifts that he’s given me.”

Malaco is releasing Good Family on its Old Trace Records imprint.

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Malaco Records co-founder Wolf Stephenson and Etheridge while recording Good Family.

At least subconsciously, he had already been on the cusp of a complete revival of faith even before the accident. The lyrics of the song he was writing that night read, “I’m calling for a miracle—got myself in deep.” He then asks God to lead him out of “the valley of the wayward sheep.”

With a renewed purpose, he finished the song “Good Family,” writing bass, drum, and keyboard parts using virtual instruments he could control with an iPad, even with his severely limited hand

Blue Mountain frontman Cary Hudson, left, guests on the Good Family song “Welcome the Grey.”

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Cornelius “Jag” Wallace, who is featured on the song “Boom Town,” with Etheridge at Malaco Studios in Jackson.

movement. He wrote more than half of the album that way, triumph of determination over adversity. Just as he conquered his layering the instruments in GarageBand and sending the demons and depression, he was able to make a record that stands arrangements to Nick Smith, his producer, to give to session on its own despite his limitations. musicians to play.

Malaco is currently releasing singles from Good Family, Songwriting had always been therapeutic for Etheridge and a credited to Ron Etheridge and Friends, ahead of a full album way to be honest about himself. “I could lie about who I was and launch this autumn. After working to regain some mobility in his what I did, but you could find the arms and hands, Etheridge is truth of who I was in my songs,” putting together a band for live he says. “I could wrap it up in a gigs, too—enough to strum pretty, poetic way, but like a patterns on a dobro with a slide. puzzle, all you had to do is put the And on the strength of “The Call,” pieces together, and you would the album’s first single, he find that I was an addict, a phony, reclaimed his title of Mississippi and a liar.” On Good Family, those Songwriter of the Year for 2024. tales from his darker past point to Etheridge found his calling, a hopeful future, something he sure enough, but this time without once struggled to see. the distractions of his former life.

“A lot of the songs have this feel And he’s determined to keep of redemption in the lyrics,” says moving forward as an artist. “Not Smith, who also produced There only does he not stop thinking Etheridge performing with longtime friend and collaborator Chris Will Be Wolves. “I think people “Brisket” Livingston. about music, he never stops really connect to his music because thinking about his music,” says they listen to the words and go, ‘Is that about me?’ Those are the Smith of Etheridge. “He’s always kind of got this plan, this path songwriters that I love the most.” in his head. He’s just so blindly driven.”

Etheridge was on hand for the recording sessions at Malaco, He has plenty of reasons to be bullish on the future. With his providing direction and feedback to musicians from the Jackson faith restored and his life on a solid track, Etheridge is looking forward again and creating new music. And more than ever, he’s music scene he’d known for years. Advances in digital recording sure he is doing the work he’s meant to do. technology allowed Smith to capture his singing in small spurts “This is why I give God praise in this new album,” he says. so Etheridge could focus on one line at a time, if needed, and put “The more I give Him, the more he seems to bless me.” DM the right amount of power into his phrasing. The result is a DELTA MAGAZINE 2024

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Indulge Yourself in Greenwood—Happy Holidays

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Holiday IN THE DELTA

GREENWOOD, MS

Lunch MondayFriday 11am-2pm

Dinnnr WednesdayFriday 6pm-9pm

GIFT CARDS

AVA I L A B L E A

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nt of the Miss aura iss ipp est R l iD a n el s t rti

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www.fanandjohnnys.com

117 Main Street, Greenwood

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L OD WO EN

ITTLE

THEATRE PRESENTS CHAR

LES DIC K

EN S’

A TIMELESS HOLIDAY TRADITION Adapted & Directed by Luke Quinn

December 19, 20, 21, & 22, 2024 Davis Auditorium, 400 Cotton St. Greenwood, Mississippi tickets: greenwoodtheatre.com

Boys and Girls Sizes NB-16

662.219.0327 309 Howard Street Greenwood, Mississippi

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Great Fall Events at MOMD! MONTH OF NOVEMBER (Opens November 6) Enjoy fascinating work from Turkish-born DSU Assistant Professor of Art and Animation Korkut Akacik and his wife Yelda. Inspired by their experiences in Turkey and US, the artists explore themes of cultural exchange, history, and social issues in their work.

MONTH OF DECEMBER (Opens December 5) Lee Harper’s miniature dioramas are sure to enthrall young and old alike. Familiar Mississippi landmarks such as Greenwood’s Crystal Grill and Bentonia’s Blue Front Cafe have been shrunk by Harper to fit on a dinner plate. It’s a small world after all!

TAKE A BREAK FROM EVERYDAY LIFE Fall is a great time for a day trip, and there’s no better place to visit than the Museum of the Mississippi Delta. Located in Greenwood, we’re just a short hop from most of north Mississippi and eastern Arkansas. Don’t pack a thing–just load up and head our way!

1608 US-82, Gre enwood, MS 38930 / T: (662) 453-0925 / w w w.museumof t hemississippidelta.com

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New Store, Old Building Durable sporting gear, inspired Southern style, and an iconic location collide on the historic Oxford Square

om Beckbe’s roots lay not in a single and searing light bulb moment, but in the glowing ember of an idea, warmed by memory and ignited by imagination.

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The growing-up years of hunting and fishing with his grandfather, those chilly early Alabama mornings near the Tombigbee River, and the shared passion for the outdoors inspired by those experiences—all fed into the design ideas for a jacket that had long been kicking around in Radcliff Menge’s head.

“I wanted a jacket that looked American, traditional,” he says, picturing the waxed canvas outerwear that would become the premium outdoor apparel and gear company’s signature Tensaw Jacket. “I wanted a tall, standing collar to get in and out of the cold. I wanted a little bit of structure for the shoulders, just so that it would be flattering. And ultimately, being

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DWAYNE BRATCHER

BY SHERRY LUCAS PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRANDALL LAUGHLIN

Tom Beckbe’s Oxford store is nestled between two older buildings; its high walls still carry ads of bygone years on the exposed bricks of what once was the exterior wall of the adjacent building.

a sportsman from the Southeast, I wanted something that worked in our climate,” Menge says. He found the traditional options already on the market great but not quite right, either too heavy or the wrong color, or lacking in style.

“I wanted something that was uniquely suited for the American outdoors, as I knew them.” The result was a custom jacket, uniquely and distinctly his own. “To see something that has only lived between your ears become a physical reality is always

satisfying and exciting.” It was bound to resonate with friends and like-minded fellow sportsmen as they eyed his jacket, which was as fit for city streets as it was for the field or deep woods.

“What was fun about it is that I liked it, and it was a custom jacket just for me, and it was immediately recognizable to people who saw me wearing it. I started getting lots of questions—What’s the deal? Where could they get one? What’s the story? That was certainly eye-opening.”

DWAYNE BRATCHER

The store’s seasonal decorations, designed by Maddie Dyess of Studio Eight Design, draw on Mississippi-made products and locally grown flowers.

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DWAYNE BRATCHER

“If you had to pinpoint an ‘aha’ moment for the brand, that would be it.”

The small company that he and his wife, Mary, founded to sell the jackets was born in 2015 in Birmingham, Alabama, and graced with a name that embodied their personal connections with the state. Old Alabama maps showed the Tombigbee River’s original name as Tombecbe, which evolved into Tombigbee. Splitting the river’s old name into Tom Beckbe essentially turned the brand into a person. “It would allow people, myself included, to project in their mind the ideal version of the Southern sportsman, or I guess, in some ways, the ideal version of themselves.”

The lifestyle behind it is inseparable from Menge’s own, from the hunting and fishing he learned at his grandfather’s side to his current quests for hunting quail and duck. That same appreciation for quality, functionality, durability, and timeless appeal also guided Tom Beckbe’s growth to a full assortment of sporting apparel and accessories for men and women.

The opening of its retail store last year on the Square in Oxford marked the second location for Tom Beckbe beyond its flagship store in Mountain Brook, Alabama, which opened in 2021. Tom Beckbe also opens two new stores this fall, one in Tuscaloosa, and one in Middleburg, Virginia.

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DWAYNE BRATCHER

Radcliff and Mary Menge

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DWAYNE BRATCHER

DWAYNE BRATCHER

DWAYNE BRATCHER

DWAYNE BRATCHER

A spirited opening reception set the tone for the new store, featuring live hunting dogs from longtime collaborators Wildrose Kennels and food and beverages from the team at neighboring City Grocery.

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DWAYNE BRATCHER

Juice Kiffin, a Wildrose Lab and beloved pet of Ole Miss football coach Lane Kiffin, also made an appearance.

Embracing the imperfections and faded advertisements from years gone by, the building’s interior was left as is. The old general store name is still visible above the rafters.

“We view them as an opportunity to either introduce ourselves or, in Oxford’s case, reintroduce ourselves to a community.”

“College towns are such vibrant and unique cultural destinations, particularly in the South, and Oxford is one of those guiding stars,” Menge says. “One of the things we look for is a space that looks and feels like a Tom Beckbe store, and that’s several things: the physical structure, where it’s located, and the people who surround it—the community it’s in.”

Tom Beckbe’s Oxford store tucks easily into the college town’s historic downtown square. Nestled between two older buildings, its high walls still carry ads of bygone years, painted directly onto the exposed bricks of what once was the exterior wall of the adjacent building. Faded and flecked with age, they embody a tactile feel for generations past. Fittingly, they convey a feel for the outdoors and exposure to the elements.

“As I understand it, it was originally an alleyway, and that’s why you can see the exposed bricks, windowsills, and the old tobacco advertisements for what was once a general store,” Menge says. For a company that prides itself on classic and timeless appeal, that ambiance is a custom fit. He designed the store’s renovation, just as he designs Tom Beckbe products. “We don’t outsource creativity.

“When you’re in that space, you’ll see all the old advertisements. … Then, the name of the general store is actually written across

the top of our interior. I think some people think that we antiqued the interior, but that’s the way it looks.

“We didn’t need to do a thing to it. The worst thing you can do with a space that’s historic and unique and cool on the inside like this is to try to cover up all those pieces. We just embraced them.”

Oxford’s community embraced Tom Beckbe right back, starting with a spirited opening reception that featured live hunting dogs from longtime collaborators Wildrose Kennels and food and beverages from the team at neighboring City Grocery.

“The initial kickoff of a store, you hope, sets the vibe for what the store is going to be and how people enjoy it for many years to come.”

The store’s seasonal decorations draw on Mississippi-made products and locally grown flowers, tapping into that sense of place Mississippi’s writers and storytellers are famous for. “We just try to give people that immersive experience when they come through the door.

“When you think about the space in Oxford, it’s a beautiful, historic building, on a beautiful, historic square, in a vibrant and culturally rich city that’s filled with people who share a passion for the outdoors and for tradition and for heritage. So, it’s a perfect mix of the right building, right location, and right group of people.

“You couldn’t draw up a better place to put a store or a better group of people to drop it into.”

Tom Beckbe’s target is people who enjoy and appreciate the sporting life and the outdoors. The company aims deeper, too, by connecting to an appreciation for

sharing experiences in the outdoors across generations. “That plays into our approach on the design side,” Menge says, “to try to make products that have an indefinite lifespan, both in terms of quality, but also in terms of design and style.”

The brand’s long-term outlook extends to supporting conservation organizations like Ducks Unlimited. Passing along the rich traditions of the outdoors, particularly in the Deep South, is also vital to that identity. “I’ve got two boys of my own, who I love to take fishing,” Menge says.

They design products with use in mind.

“Inspiration ordinarily comes from our customers, and just knowing who that guy or gal is, what they want to be doing, where they’re going and then thinking through, how can we help them? How can we serve a useful function?” It might be true sporting gear for the field, a comfortable shirt that’s great for everyday wear, or a convenient and useful bag for travel. “It’s all centered around having a very strong and clear point of view as to who the customer is. I go back to that person who probably has a twinge of nostalgia and likes

the idea of purchasing less but purchasing better.”

He often draws upon those touchstone memories with his grandfather— experiences that honed a lifelong passion for hunting. That formative, fifteen-year stretch, starting with turkey hunting every spring when he was in middle school, set a pattern that still holds true and dear.

“There are so many memories from all those mornings that he and I spent together, watching the sunrise.”

“The whole experience of sharing the sun coming up with another person in the outdoors and watching the world wake up—it’s still the thing that I enjoy the most about being outside.”

That shared social connection, so much a part of life in the South, is woven into the fabric of his brand. It’s also part of its broader reach. “You know, football in the Deep South has appeal outside of it. And I think what that really means is less about the quality of SEC football, which is obviously unparalleled, but it says more about the shared passion that people have,” he explained. That’s certainly true in the Southeast, but it finds kinship, too, with folks in the Northeast, Rocky Mountains, West Coast, streets of New York City, and, really, any geographic area.

“It’s the idea of spending time together in the outdoors and enjoying the moment,” Menge says, “and spending time with friends who share that same interest.” Steeped in tradition, keenly aware of legacy, and always outfitted for the occasion. DM DELTA MAGAZINE 2024

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Explore Silo Square this Holiday Season

Opening our Silo Square location in early 2025!

PDGO serves infants, children, and teens. From baby teeth to braces, PDGO is here for every stage of your child’s life.

pdgosmiles.com

Meet the four partners of PDGO. You can visit our website to learn more about them and the other associates in our practice.

Dr. Steve Fuson Pediatric Dentist

94 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

Dr. Clayton Floriani Family Dentist

Dr. Nate Denson Pediatric Dentist

Dr. Taylor Collazo Orthodontist

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Bestselling author and acclaimed sportswriter Wright Thompson.

For Those Who Inherit the Delta

With The Barn, Clarksdale native Wright Thompson traces the true story of an infamous Delta murder, and examines the global forces that set it in motion.

BY JIM BEAUGEZ 96 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

T

ime will eventually reveal all things, or so goes the adage. The question becomes, will anyone care when time is ready to show its hand?

With his new book The Barn—a journey into the history of one specific plot of Mississippi Delta land as a way to comprehend the torture and murder of fourteen-year-old Emmett Till in 1955— author Wright Thompson threads together a litany of revelations some folks worked hard to keep hidden, and others that were lost to time.

“One of the things I find troubling, especially in the Delta, is that people’s love for it feels a mile wide and an inch deep,” Thompson says. “And if you’re gonna really love a place, if you’re gonna be from a place, you better know it.”

When Thompson graduated from Lee Academy in Clarksdale in 1996, his

knowledge of his homeland was limited to surface facts. As a journalism student at the University of Missouri, though, he began to recognize through the work of playwright Tennessee Williams, whose time in Clarksdale inspired his most memorable characters, how the region’s “fading memory of wealth” had tinted his memories.

“My whole early life was surrounded by a fable of lost grandeur,” he writes in The Barn, subtitled The Secret History of a Murder in Mississippi. “The mythic ascendency of that fable, I’d learn as a grown man, stole the oxygen from any other stories that might have been told, that needed to be told.”

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Wright, as an infant, with his father, Walter Thompson.

While the story of Emmett Till languished many years from that lack of oxygen, it came to life for Thompson while he was reporting a story for ESPN that aimed to trace the Great Migration origins of Los Angeles Lakers athletes. Naturally, those family trees led back to places like the Delta, and he learned about the barn where Till died while chasing a lead in Mound Bayou. And as the COVID pandemic shut down the professional sports industry, he suddenly had time to follow Till’s trail.

What happened next was “a parallel 98 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

track of obsession” in which Thompson traveled between the barn, located at Township 22 North, Range 4 West, and Chicago’s South Side, and as far as Seville, Spain, in hopes of answering two specific— and seemingly simple—questions.

First, how could he have grown up twenty-three miles from the site of the most notorious lynching of the Civil Rights era without knowing about it until he went to college?

And then how, considering all the media coverage and books written on the

subject since 1955, was it possible to not know the actual place where the murder was committed still existed?

Yet for all those years, while Thompson grew up, left home, and started a career, the barn where Till died quietly sat near Drew, miles from better-known scenes of the saga like the former Bryant Grocery in Money, where Till whistled at Carolyn Bryant. In the decades since that interaction set his tragic death in motion, the building has been allowed to collapse into itself. And like a dying star morphing into a black hole, it, too, sucked energy away from the barn into the heart of its ruins.

In Thompson’s telling, the barn is the true nexus of the brutal—and wholly inevitable, as he posits—scene.

During his research for the book, Thompson’s worldview on the subject broadened quickly. For the first time, he heard names like Simeon Wright, Till’s cousin, who awoke to a flashlight’s gaze and a strong smell of liquor on the breath of the men who took Till into the night.

Willie Reed, who overheard the murder that morning and witnessed J.W. Milam outside the barn with a .45 pistol strapped to his waist; Clint Shurden, the man who owned the farm Reed lived on and drove him to the Sumner County courthouse to

PHOTO OBTAINED FROM DIGITAL MEDIA SERVICES

testify against Milam and his half-brother, the co-defendant Roy Bryant.

There were more familiar names, too.

Hernando de Soto, whose arrival in the Delta in 1541 led to the first mapping of the region, and whose clashes with native tribes foretold its violent future. Nathan Bedford Forrest, the Confederate general and first Grand Wizard of the Ku Klux Klan, owned land in Coahoma County and pushed his cavalry through the Dougherty Bayou area on a run from Friars Point to Yazoo City. And Medgar Evers drove Reed from Mound Bayou to Memphis under cover of night, where he caught a flight to Chicago and eventually restarted his life as Willie Louis.

By the time Thompson factored in the deep history of the Dockery plantation, where Charley Patton, Robert Johnson, and Son House put Township 22 North, Range 4 West on the map for blues music, and the nearby Walford site, where a Native American city once rose above the swamps, the confluence of world-shaping people and events resembled a complex math word problem.

“Except in this book,” he says, “there are a dozen trains, and each one of them is a system or a force, and they’re all barreling across history, and then they all collide in August of 1955 in this barn.”

“The forces that the book is mapping— capitalism, the industrial revolution, the settling of the American continent, manifest destiny, hate, fear, cotton, commodity, chains—there are many moving parts that all end up feeling load bearing by the end.”

There is a selfish parallel world, Thompson says, where The Barn has an audience of two—his own young daughters, who will inherit the same Delta dirt their father did. But instead of learning an incomplete history where facts and context are glossed over or omitted, they will have a compendium detailing the global forces that brought Westerners to settle the Mississippi Delta and the history of what followed.

They’ll know that at one time, a group of men kidnapped a young African American teenager, and a community protected them just long enough to get the scrutiny of the FBI and national media out of their backyard. Then, they turned their backs on the two men, Milam and Bryant, who confessed to the murder for money after a jury acquittal—and as they ushered

Sampling BBQ during an episode of ESPN’s GameDay with John T. Edge.

Thompson’s other books include The Cost of These Dreams: Sports Stories and Other Serious Business from 2019, and Pappyland: A Story of Family, Fine Bourbon, and the Things That Last, published in 2020.

those men into deserved obscurity, they also swept the chapter from their history.

But nothing can escape time, not the lies people convince themselves are true nor the omissions made to protect the status quo. Eventually, someone will come along to piece together the real story—someone like Thompson, now one of the curators of this saga and a father of the region’s next generation, who is invested in finally getting it right.

“I felt like this book is a story about the Delta and its people,” he says. “This is the story of a tribe of people of which I am one.

I wanted it to at least read accurately to me.

There are many different audiences for this book, but the Delta audience, I hope, sees their home.” DM DELTA MAGAZINE 2024

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Your next great waterfowling adventure is just a step away.

Get outside and go hunting—nature’s greatest sunrises are in the MISSISSIPPI DELTA ducks.org

Sophisticated Little Oxford is Waiting for You

102 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

FEB 27 MARCH 2, 2025 @ Malco Commons Cinema Grill

For more info and tickets, visit:

ox-film.com

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MORE THAN JUST A HUNTING STORE

WE’RE HERE FOR ALL YOUR HUNTING, FISHING, AND OUTDOOR NEEDS!

Visit our indoor gun and archery ranges!

CASUALWEAR, FISHING GEAR, AND MUCH MORE

658 HIGHWAY 6 WEST, OXFORD

huntershollow.com | 662.234.5945

104 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

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Have Shears, Will Travel From the Live Music Capitol of the World to the Home of the Blues, Bear Ryan is trimming hair and cutting tunes

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Hailing from Austin, Texas, and a classically trained barber and musician, Ryan has followed her dreams, found her niche, and filled a void in downtown Clarksdale.

BY SUSAN MARQUEZ • PHOTOGRAPHY BY AUSTIN BRITT

ike many who discover the magic of the Mississippi Delta, Bear Ryan is a musician who first traveled to Clarksdale in 2015 to perform. “I really like the vibe here, and over the past nine years, I’ve made a bunch of friends in town.”

L

Ryan traveled back and forth from her hometown of Austin, Texas, to Clarksdale as a musician, playing at festivals and other gigs. Back in Austin, her “day job” was keeping men looking neat and groomed. “I am a classically trained barber specializing in men’s grooming—scissor cuts, clipper cuts, beard maintenance, and razor shaves.”

More and more, Clarksdale began to feel like home to Ryan. She and her boyfriend thought about making the move, but knew gainful employment would be needed to make it come to fruition. As fate would have it, Ryan received a timely message from a friend. “She called and asked if I wanted to be the barber of Clarksdale.”

Marty Eubank, owner of Marty’s Barber

Shop, served as the town barber in Clarksdale for over fifty years. With Marty’s passing on September 23, 2023, it was seemingly the end of an era. Generations of men got their hair cut at Marty’s. The town was in a bit of a panic. “I heard guys were driving long distances for a haircut or just letting their hair grow,” says Ryan.

She and her boyfriend cleared their schedule and drove out the following weekend to look at the shop. “I used to peek through the window when I was in town. It was such a cool vintage barbershop. I never met Marty because the shop was usually closed when I was downtown.” She made an offer on the shop in April, and by July, she moved to Clarksdale and reopened Marty’s.

Her day job as a barber keeps Ryan quite busy, although her guitar is never far from her fingertips.

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Tools of the trade, such as shears, clippers, and various tonics, are neatly lined along Ryan’s workspace.

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“I didn’t do much to it,” she says. “It is such a classic barbershop and so wellmaintained, I didn’t have to do much to open it. I think a lot of wives were happy about it. I know several who cut their husbands’ hair while the shop was closed.”

Ryan says she keeps things simple. She only takes walk-ins. “I realize this is a farming community, and it’s hard for folks to make appointments.”

She tries to communicate that she went to barber school—her specialty is grooming men’s hair. “I use a straight razor.” Ryan can handle anything from buzz cuts to long hair, kids to seniors. She also keeps faces looking neat with beard line-ups or trims, including a full-service beard trim that includes beard and mustache shaping, lines on the cheek and neck, hot lather, hot towels, and a straight razor.

As folks have gotten used to having Ryan behind the chair, things in the shop are back to how they used to be. “I love it when people are in here catching up on the weather and the latest news while they are waiting their turn. It is a place where good conversation happens every day.”

One of Ryan’s favorite things about Clarksdale is the variety of people who visit the town. “People around the world love the blues, and they come to Clarksdale to get an authentic taste of it. My shop is in the middle of town, and all day long I see tourists walking by. Some of them even wander in here for a haircut. I get a lot of European customers.”

Because she is a musician, Ryan plans to involve the barbershop in the Clarksdale music scene. “I am planning on having mini-shows in the shop. My boyfriend ran electricity to the front of the building so that other musicians could busk on the sidewalk.”

Influenced heavily by the Delta blues, Ryan says her music has a swampy blues or country blues sound. “I have recorded quite a bit, and I’m about to record an EP in Water Valley soon.”

A haircut and a song sound like a great combination. DM

Ryan keeps faces looking neat with beard line-ups or trims, including a full-service trim that includes beard and mustache shaping, lines on the cheek, and more.

120 East 2nd St, Clarksdale; bearthebarber.com Facebook: Bear the Barber; Instagram: @littlebearthebarber Hours vary, text for info at 512.572.0061 DELTA MAGAZINE 2024

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Shop Charming Clarksdale for the Holidays

from my family to yours

MERRY CHRISTMAS Bo Armstrong Agent 662-627-3477 New Location

137 Yazoo Ave Clarksdale

110 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

GIFTS ANTIQUES GIFTS& & ANTIQUES 149 Avenue 149Delta Delta Avenue Clarksdale, MS MS Clarksdale, 38614 38614

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CRYSTAL SUNSHINE KELLEY 870-228-2912 crystalk937@gmail.com

Downtow Clarksdal

MON-SAT 11AM-10PM 112 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

CREATIVE WAYS TO DECORATE p U t I e i T WITH RIBBONS AND BOWS Ribbons and bows aren’t just for gift wrapping anymore—they’ve become a stylish and versatile way to add a touch of elegance to holiday décor. Whether you're adorning a simple sprig of greenery, elevating the look of glassware for a festive gathering, or adding flair to table settings, discover how these playful accents bring instant charm to any occasion.

BY TAYLOR ARMSTRONG

Generously drape ribbon along mantel greenery and use it to secure stockings for an updated effect. Tone-on-tone shades elevate the look.

Simple brass candlesticks are tied with brown satin ribbon for a Thanksgiving buffet.

Make New Year’s Eve bubbly even more festive with colored ribbon generously tied to the stem of your favorite glassware. A great idea for any celebration!

Use ribbon to tie sprigs of greenery to sconces throughout the house. Here, a pop of lavender is an unexpected holiday touch.

Don’t forget to tie small wreaths or greenery to table lamps throughout the house for a festive touch, as shown in this welcoming entryway. TIP: Don’t throw away used ribbon! Save and repurpose ribbon from year to year—it will come in handy!

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CORINTH’S DESTINATION LOCATION FOR ALL

YOUR FISHING AND APPAREL NEEDS

2804-A HWY. 72 WEST CORINTH, MS 38834

662.594.8687

STORE HOURS: MONDAY-SATURDAY | 8 AM - 6 PM 114 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

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This overnight French toast bake and sausage balls are perfect additions to a holiday breakfast—or anytime there’s a crowd to feed.

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Fest ive Holiday BREAKFAST RECIPES AND STYLING BY CINDY AND TRAVIS COOPWOOD

Holiday Breakfast MENU IDEAS Lost Island Pancake French Toast Bake Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls Ham Croissant Breakfast Casserole Cheese Grits Candied Bacon Orange Juice and Coffee

A

festive Christmas breakfast is the perfect way to start a magical holiday morning, and nothing sets the scene like a table adorned with charming Christmas china sprinkled with delightful Santa Claus details.

The menu is designed for ease and joy, featuring make-ahead dishes like overnight casseroles and the ever-popular sausage balls, so you can spend more time with loved ones and less time in the kitchen. With a spread that’s as comforting as it is festive, this breakfast will be one to savor all season long.

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CHEDDAR BAY SAUSAGE BALLS 1 1 1¼ 1

package Red Lobster cheddar Bay Biscuit mix 8-ounce block cream cheese, softened cups shredded Cheddar cheese pound breakfast sausage, uncooked

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. In the bowl of an electric stand mixer, combine biscuit mix and seasoning packet, sausage, cream cheese, and cheddar cheese. Dough may also be mixed by hand. Mix until everything is just combined.

Shape into 1-inch balls. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until golden brown.

Delicious for a breakfast buffet, served alone, or along with Ranch dip or Comeback dressing.

LOST ISLAND PANCAKE FRENCH TOAST BAKE From one of editor Cindy Coopwood’s favorite new cookbooks, The Copper Whisk, this overnight French toast bake is perfect for Christmas morning, or anytime there’s a crowd to feed for breakfast.

16 buttermilk pancakes 6 eggs 1½ cups milk 1 cup heavy cream ½ cup sugar 1 tablespoon vanilla ½ cup flour ¼ cup brown sugar ½ teaspoon cinnamon ¼ teaspoon salt ¼ cup butter, sliced, room temperature maple syrup, powdered sugar, and blueberries for toppings

Slice the pancakes in half. Arrange in a baking dish in two rows with the flat side down. In a bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla. Pour over pancakes. In another bowl, whisk flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Using a fork to blend, add the butter and mash together until a crumble forms. Sprinkle over pancakes. Chill overnight or at least 2 hours. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Let The Copper Whisk pan sit at room temperature while oven is

by Ashley Rowton heating. Bake 50 to 60 minutes. Serve with syrup and powdered sugar. Sprinkle with blueberries if desired, and enjoy!

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TIPS • Substitute one 11-ounce container of pimento cheese for the cheddar and cream cheeses, making it even more simpler.

• Unbaked sausage balls may be frozen once rolled out.

These are perfect to keep on hand for busy weekends and holidays. They may also be made a day ahead and refrigerated until ready to bake.

• 2 to 3 cups Bisquick Baking mix may be substituted for Cheddar Bay Mix • Feel free to use the sausage of your choice. Add red pepper flakes if you want extra spice.

Mixing her own Cuthbertson Christmas china, given over the years each Christmas, with vintage green glassware accented with red ribbon, and other fun Santa and holidaythemed accessories and dishes, Travis Coopwood set a festive breakfast table for visiting college friends.

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CHEESE GRITS 1 cup grits, uncooked 4 cup water 1 tablespoon salt 1 stick of butter or oleo 8 ounces processed cheese, cubed ½ pound grated sharp cheddar cheese 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Cook grits in salted water. When cooked, add butter, garlic cheese, sharp cheese, and Worcestershire. Stir until butter and cheese have melted. Put in greased casserole and sprinkle with paprika. Bake in preheated oven at 350 degrees for 20 minutes or until bubbly.

May be made and refrigerator up to two days ahead of time.

HAM CROISSANT BREAKFAST CASSEROLE Similar to a classic French Croque Monsieur, this recipe is simple to put together and extra delicious with a sprinkle of powdered sugar, a dollop of jam, or a drizzle of hot honey!

6 to 8 medium-sized croissants 4 large eggs 1 cup half-and-half or whole milk 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard 1 teaspoon garlic powder ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste ½ teaspoon pepper, or to taste 8 ounces deli ham (one pack) 8 ounces Swiss cheese, sliced into thick, chunky pieces 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese powdered sugar, jam, or honey

Lightly coat a 6 x 9 deep baking dish with cooking spray. A 9 x 11 baking dish can also be used. Tear croissants in half and place in prepared pan. Cut ham into thirds and nestle around the croissants. Sprinkle on shredded cheese.

In a small bowl, whisk together eggs, half and half, Dijon mustard, and salt. Pour over croissants. Cover with foil and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes or overnight.

Heat oven to 350 degrees. Place covered breakfast casserole in the oven and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue to bake for another 10 to 15 minutes until hot and bubbly with a golden top.

Remove casserole from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes.

Sprinkle with powdered sugar and serve.

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CANDIED BACON Sure to please bacon lovers everywhere, this is a wonderful addition to your holiday or any brunch menu year-round!

1 pound bacon, thick cut 1 cup light brown sugar ¼ cup pure maple syrup

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire cooling rack on top.

Spray the rack with cooking spray.

In a small saucepan over medium heat or in the microwave, add the brown sugar and maple syrup.

Lay the pieces of bacon on top of the rack, trying not to overlap.

Brush the syrup on top of the bacon. Place in oven and cook for 13 minutes.

Remove from the oven and carefully flip the bacon. Then repeat steps by spooning the mixture on this side of the bacon and sprinkle with a little extra brown sugar if desired. Return to the oven and cook for another 13 minutes.

If the bacon does not seem crispy enough, remember it will become crisp as it cools. But if it needs a little longer, you can broil an additional minute for each side. When ready, allow to cool 1 minute before removing the bacon from the rack with tongs.

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Experince Christmas at Collierville Town Square

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Shop Senatobia this Holiday Season

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Experience the Uniqueness of Grenada

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HOME

A Festive Family Tradition

This Christmas home is filled with generations of joy, heirloom treasures, and playful new pieces that create a magical holiday atmosphere in every room

BY TERRI GLAZER • PHOTOGRAPHY BY GREG CAMPBELL

“W

e’ve always loved Christmas. We’ve been collecting Christmas decorations for a long time,” says this Clarksdale homeowner.

A long time, indeed. Some of the couple’s most treasured holiday pieces have been in the family for generations. Mixed in with newer acquisitions are favorites passed down from both the husband’s and wife’s families. Mingling the nostalgic with the more recent treasures keeps memories of Christmases past fresh for this couple and their grown children and grandchildren.

This home is positively bursting with holiday spirit, beginning on the exterior. Wreaths hang from red ribbons on every window, front and back. “Since it sits on the golf course, it has to be decorated all the way around,” says the homeowner. A warm welcome awaits friends and family throughout the season with a festive red sleigh—found years ago at a local antique store—which 128 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

sits near the front door, overflowing with whimsical gifts and ornaments.

Across the way, a dapper soldier stands sentry at the front door.

He came to his current post in an unorthodox manner thanks to the homeowners’ persistence. She recalls, “I had heard about a man in Arkansas who has a huge store, a warehouse, with nothing but Christmas. It’s called Guess and Company, and it’s in Des Arc. I had been wanting to go, so one rainy day [my husband] and I got in the car and drove over there.

She continues, “I have a lot of Christmas stuff already; I really didn’t need anything, I just wanted to go. I saw this Nutcracker, and it wasn’t for sale! It was a part of their display. But Paul Guess, the owner, was there, so we talked him into selling it to us.”

For the front door decoration, the owner decided to continue the motif she used at her previous home: a trio of wreaths hung

Lush greenery, Santas dressed in traditional colors, and knitted stockings create a rustic scene in this Clarksdale home.

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In the cocktail room, a painting by Kate McDowell Blasingame holds court over the sparkly holiday decor.

A vintage Santa and Mrs. Claus by designer Bethany Lowe are among the homeowner’s longtime favorite seasonal decorations.

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The tree in the den glimmers with the family’s beloved Old World and Christopher Radko blown glass ornaments.

The homeowner loves the scent of fresh evergreens in the house at Christmastime. She embellishes the garland with different accents yearly.

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Collected Santas pair with family photos in the den, showing the importance of the season to the homeowners, their children, and grandchildren.

vertically. She creates the unique look by embellishing plain evergreens with fresh magnolia leaves, then inserting smaller red berry wreaths in the center. Paired with the traditional live garland framing the front door, it is a stunning presentation, and the feel is warm and welcoming.

That mood continues into the entryway, where additional lush garland, accented with gold ornaments, ribbon, and pale green lamb’s ear for contrast, drapes the front staircase balustrade. A petite chest on the opposite wall holds several of the owner’s

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longtime favorites. “I’ve had that Mr. And Mrs. Claus for a very long time. They are [from Maryland-based designer] Bethany Lowe, and I love all her designs,” she says.

Nostalgia gives way to glam in the adjoining front room that the couple affectionately calls “the cocktail room.” Painted a crisp, neutral color and furnished with elegant white upholstered pieces, light wood, and gold accents, the space is an ideal backdrop for a showstopper. The Christmas tree is just that, flocked and filled top to bottom with ornaments in pinks, magentas, and blues that

Whimsical reindeer top the breakfast table, set with holiday china the homeowner began collecting while still a college student.

Handmade Christmas crowns for the grandchildren are a recent addition to the festive table.

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Even the bedrooms and baths get a little special treatment at Christmas. Sprigs of fresh evergreen on the lamps and light fixtures are a subtle reminder of the season.

reflect the chic tone of the setting. The fireplace on the opposite wall is dressed in the “jewelry” of the season—an evergreen garland with gold balls, white “pearls,” and just the right amount of ruby red.

Even the Santas on the mantel are coordinated, glittery, and clad in refined colors. Amid all the sophistication, the family’s traditional needlepoint stockings look right at home. The grouping has grown as the children grew up and married, and again when grandchildren joined the family.

From the cosmopolitan flair of the front room, the mood changes to warm comfort in the den, which is off the kitchen.

Design elements, including the dark wood of the room’s exposed beam and furniture, the brick fireplace, and the pine flooring, create a cozy feel year-round—and the Christmas decorations take the look to the next level.

A fresh tree provides the signature aroma of the holidays and a home for more of the family’s extensive collection of blown-glass Part of the family’s large collection of Byers’ Choice carolers.

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A simple touch of fresh greenery is perfect for this attractive powder room.

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A new TV room added just last year has given the owner a fresh, clean palette to decorate for the holidays.

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More treasured Santas sit alongside narcissus blossoms under an original Tony Mose painting.

ornaments. “We love the Old World Christmas ornaments; that’s what we first started collecting,” says the homeowner. “When Christopher Radko came out, we started getting a few of those, but the majority of what we have is Old World.” Illuminated with multicolored lights and finished with glass bead garland, the tree harkens back to Christmases past. Another nod to times gone by comes from an Eskimo Santa statue on the room’s coffee table.

“It was my mother-in-law’s. I have a lot of her Santas,” the homeowner says.

The mantel over the room’s fireplace holds verdant garland and another group of Santas—these dressed in traditional reds. Below, more stockings are hung. This hand-knitted set fits perfectly with the old-fashioned “home-for-Christmas” ambiance.

The dining table in the adjacent breakfast area boasts some of the couple’s most treasured seasonal pieces, which have added to the joy of the holidays for years: their whimsical Christmas china and a whimsical reindeer centerpiece. The owner recalls, “My holiday china is a little different. My mother found this when I was still in college, and I started collecting it then. I hadn’t seen this pattern and didn’t know anyone who had it. It’s called Mason’s Christmas Village and is made in England.”

Two of the family’s favorites, Byers’ Choice carolers and illuminated Bethany Lowe Christmas Village houses, make a nostalgic tableau.

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On the front porch, a handsome soldier and a cheerful red sleigh full of gifts and ornaments set the stage.

Festive garland and a trio of wreaths on the front door welcome guests to the home.

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The pair of joyful red reindeer from Clarksdale’s Flower Bouquet + Interiors have graced the table for at least fifteen years, according to the homeowner. Handmade Christmas crowns sewn for each of the grandchildren by an English artisan are a more recent addition to the tablescape. The owner adds a small wreath on each chair’s back and garland woven around the chandelier to complete the look.

The couple recently had an outdoor cooking area enclosed to create a stylish TV room. Painted brick walls, a rich Oushak rug, and a slip-covered sofa give the space an elevated casual feel.

Much-loved Santas and greenery, along with forced Narcissus blossoms in a cheerful red pot, provide Christmas spirit in the

new addition, but the homeowner admits its Christmas decor is still a work in progress. “The decorations for this room are evolving,” she explains. “The area was just finished, so it wasn’t done in time for Christmas last year. I don’t quite have the feel of this room yet.”

But whatever inspiration strikes for the space, there’s no doubt it will lead this talented homeowner to create a stunning holiday design. As with each room of this lovely home where no detail is left unattended, every space is beautiful, festive, and deeply rooted in the family traditions she has created and fostered in the home for over thirty years. DM

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Holidays are Brighter in Hernando

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Discover Olive Branch this Holiday Season

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Experience the Local Eats, Beats and Shops of Indianola

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MAKING

BRIGHT!

HoLiDaY OpEn HoUsE NoVeMbEr 8Th Cheers to starting your holiday shopping in Indianola with store discounts and a glass of wine if you choose! Our Open House begins at 5:30 at the B.B. King Museum, where you’ll pick up your special wine glass and a list of participating merchants. Each store will have a different selection of wines to sample while you browse, and you’ll 昀nd items unique to the Delta with a wide selection of gifts ranging from apparel to food, jewelry and much more. We can’t think of a more fun way to make spirits bright.

• 82 Outlet Store • Abraham’s • Alford’s • B.B. King Museum • Blue Biscuit • Crown Restaurant/Antique Mall • Lavender Lane • Lost Pizza Company • Magic Mart • Magnolia Marketplace • Paul’s Jewelry • Petal Pushers • Ricca Studio of Beauty VISIT • The Mole Hole • The Carriage House • Young Ideas This project is supported, in whole or in part, by federal award number ARPA-1017 awarded to The Indianola Tourism Commission by the U. S. Department of the Treasury.

Indianola

MISSISSIPPI

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FOOD

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Scaling Down, Celebrating Big Recipes for Hosting a Small Thanksgiving

BY CINDY COOPWOOD AND CORDELIA CAPPS • PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANNA SATTERFIELD

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150 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

T

hanksgiving conjures up images of huge family gatherings, but sometimes, there

is a limited number around the table—and that’s okay! Having a smaller Thanksgiving gathering some years can offer many advantages. A more intimate gathering makes meal preparation far easier, with a simpler menu and fewer dishes to juggle.

You can set just one table, creating a cozy atmosphere where everyone is part of the same conversation, making the time together more meaningful. Plus, with fewer guests, there’s more time to relax and maybe even enjoy a cocktail before dinner without the usual rush. Cleanup is quicker, and the overall vibe feels more relaxed, giving everyone a chance to savor the holiday in a less hectic way. These five recipes are perfect to include if you’re hosting a smaller crowd this year! Happy Thanksgiving!

AIR FRYER TURKEY 3 pound boneless turkey breast 5 tablespoons butter, softened (use real butter) 1 teaspoon kosher salt ½ teaspoon garlic powder ½ teaspoon rosemary, dried or 1½ teaspoons fresh, chopped ½ teaspoon thyme, dried or 1½ teaspoons fresh, chopped ½ teaspoon paprika, regular or smoked ¼ teaspoon ground sage ¼ teaspoon black pepper

TIPS • Dry the turkey well before seasoning it, or the butter will not stick to it.

• If the boneless turkey breast has a string net on it, leave it on and gently work to loosen the skin. Tuck the seasoned butter under the skin the best you can and spread all over as well.

Bring turkey breast out and let it sit on the counter • Thaw a frozen turkey breast for 30 to 45 minutes before starting the process. in the refrigerator for 2 days.

Preheat the air fryer to 360 degrees.

If you need it faster, place Remove turkey breast from the packaging and pat the unopened turkey in a bath of cold water. dry with paper towels.

Mix spices in a small bowl, then add softened butter, mixing well. Rub mixture under the skin as you are able.

Leave a little bit to rub over the top of the skin as well.

If netting is included, don’t remove it, instead try to lift and stretch netting to get as much of the mixture under the skin as possible.

Place coated boneless turkey breast in the air fryer for an hour, rotating and turning about every 15 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees.

If it’s browning too much, cover turkey with foil, until it reaches the correct internal temperature. If needed, keep cooking in air fryer at 10 minute intervals, taking the temperature until it reaches 160 to 165 degrees. Once your turkey breast reaches 160 to 165 degrees, remove from fryer and set on a cutting board, tenting with foil and allowing to rest 10 to 15 minutes before carving.

BONE-IN OPTION: For bone-in turkey breast, place skin side up in air fryer and set for 2025 minutes, then turn and flip and air fry an additional 20 minutes or until a meat thermometer inserted in the thickest part reads 165 degrees.

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CAST-IRON BACON MUSHROOM DRESSING 10 cups cornbread, cubed in ½- to 1-inch pieces 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 cups leeks, chopped 2 cups mushrooms, chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 teaspoon salt 3 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped or 3 teaspoons dried 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped or 1 teaspoon dried 4 tablespoons butter 2 to 3 cups low-sodium broth (or more) 4 slices bacon, chopped and cooked ½ teaspoon ground pepper

At least one day before, make your favorite cornbread recipe. We think it’s best baked in a cast-iron skillet. Once baked and cooled, cube or crumble cornbread into chunks. Allow to dry out and become stale; another option is to toast if lightly to dry out. Tip: Store-bought cornbread may be used as well—just be sure to break it up and allow to dry out.

Preheat oven to 275 degrees. Spread bread on a large rimmed baking sheet and bake until dry to the touch, about 30 minutes. Let cool. Transfer to a large bowl. Increase oven temperature to 350 degrees. Coat a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.

Fry bacon in cast-iron skillet until done, but not overcooked.

Remove from skillet and set aside, leaving drippings in pan. Add leeks and mushrooms to drippings; cook over medium heat, stirring often, until just starting to brown, 3 to 5 minutes. Reduce heat to medium and continue to cook a little longer, until tender. Add garlic and cook, stirring, for 30 seconds. Stir in herbs and cook for about 152 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

30 seconds. Add all ingredients (vegetables, bacon, butter, broth and seasonings) to cornbread in large bowl. Toss together until broth is absorbed. Transfer mixture back to the to the cast-iron skillet. Spray one side of a piece of foil with cooking spray and cover the dressing, sprayed-side down.

Bake for 30 minutes.

Uncover and continue baking until golden brown, about 20 minutes more.

CRANBERRY SAUCE 2 cups cranberries 1½ cups water ½ cup orange juice 1 cup sugar 1 tablespoon orange rind, grated

Wash and sort the cranberries. Place in pan with water and orange juice; add sugar. Cook until the berries all pop and sauce begins to thicken. Stir in the orange rind. Allow to cool before serving. This may be made a day or two in advance and refrigerated until ready to serve.

SAUTÉED BRUSSELS SPROUTS WITH TRUFFLE OIL Think you don’t love Brussels sprouts? Think again. These are shredded, stir-fried and drizzled with truffle oil–even your kids will like them.

1 2 ½ 3 ¼

pound fresh Brussels sprouts, stems trimmed teaspoons garlic, pressed (about 2 large cloves) teaspoon coarse salt, plus additional tablespoons butter cup vermouth or water Freshly ground black pepper 2 teaspoons white truffle oil 1¼ cup almond slivers, toasted

Fit a food processor with a slicing blade. With the motor running, drop the Brussels sprouts down the feed tube, using the hopper to push the sprouts through to ensure better slices. (Instead of a food processor, you can use a mandoline or a sharp knife). In a small bowl, mash the garlic and salt together. Heat a 12-inch skillet over medium until warm. Add the garlic paste and butter; cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the sliced sprouts to the skillet and toss gently until coated with the butter. Sauté for about 1 minute until the sprouts are crisp and slightly browned. Toss and cook for about 1 more minute. Pour in the vermouth, stir and sauté until the sprouts are crisp-tender, but still bright green, about 1 to 2 more minutes. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper. Drizzle with the truffle oil, add the almonds, and toss. Transfer to a serving dish and serve immediately.

Serves 4

Combining elements of heritage and modern flair, Royal Crown Derby Olde Avesbury china is placed on modern rattan chargers.

The stemware brings a splash of color to the arrangement pairing modern wine goblets with vintage water glasses in an amber tone.

Sparkling heirloom sterling flatware and rust linen napkins complete each setting, while copper taper candles in antique silver holders add the final touch of warm ambiance.

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SWEET POTATO BITES 4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into ¼-inch thick rounds 2 tablespoons butter, melted 1 teaspoon maple syrup Kosher salt 1 10-ounce bag marshmallows ½ cup pecan halves

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. On a large baking sheet, toss sweet potatoes with melted butter and maple syrup and arrange in an even layer. Season with salt.

Bake until tender, flipping halfway through, about 20 minutes. Remove baking sheet from oven and switch oven to broil.

Top each sweet potato round with a marshmallow and broil until puffed and golden.

Immediately top each marshmallow with a pecan half and serve.

Yields 6 to 8

PARMESAN ROASTED GREEN BEANS 1 2 ½ 2 ¼ ½ ¼

pound fresh green beans, trimmed tablespoons olive oil teaspoon salt, or to taste cloves garlic, finely chopped teaspoons freshly ground black pepper, plus more cup shredded Parmesan cup shredded mozzarella

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Preheat oven to 425 degrees. On a large sheet pan, toss green beans with oil and salt. Bake, toss, after 7 minutes until beans are crisp-tender, 10 to 15 minutes.

Toss green beans again; sprinkle with garlic and ¼ teaspoon pepper. Top with Parmesan and mozzarella.

Heat broiler. Broil beans, watching closely, until cheese is melted and golden brown, 2 to 3 minutes. Season with more pepper if desired and serve.

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DM food contributor Cordelia Capps used deeply-hued roses, dried limelight hydrangea blooms, the leaves of oak leaf hydrangea, and Butterfly bush blooms—uniquely accented with red cabbage and beets—to create a vibrant arrangement that anchors the tablescape. The centerpiece is nestled on a runner of vintage fabric casually draped down the length of the table.

THANKSGIVING SANGRIA A smaller, less hectic gathering allows time to celebrate with a predinner cocktail. A batch cocktail recipe, like this sangria, makes it even simpler!

1 bottle Malbec wine 2 cups apple cider ½ cup vodka ½ of an orange, thinly sliced and quartered ½ of a green pear, chopped ½ of a Honeycrisp apple, chopped ½ cup cranberries 3 cinnamon sticks

In a large pitcher, combine all ingredients. Stir well and then refrigerate until ready to serve. The sangria is best made the day before you plan to enjoy it or given at least 8 hours in the refrigerator. Stir before pouring into glasses. Spoon some of the fruit into each glass if desired. Enjoy!

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PEARS BAKED IN CREAM This elegant but simple recipe is indulgent and perfect to make in fall when Pears are ripe. It’s a long-time favorite from the first Martha Stewart book, published in 1983!

2 tablespoons unsalted butter 2 Bartlett or Bosc pears, unpeeled, halved, and cored ½ cup heavy cream 2 tablespoons sugar

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Butter a shallow baking dish with 1 tablespoon butter and sprinkle 1 tablespoon sugar over the bottom. Put the pears, cut side down, in the dish. Sprinkle with remaining sugar and dot with butter. Bake for 10 minutes. Remove from oven, pour the cream over the pears, and return to the oven for 20 minutes more. Serve warm.

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Southaven Simply Has it All

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*h. 3&"%: 50 "44*45 :06 8*5) :063 53"/4"$5*0/4 º ,IVEºVIRTUALºTELLERSºNOWºAVAILABLEºATº THEºFOLLOWINGºDRIVEºTHRUºLOCATIONS 3035 Church Road East-Southaven 5028 Goodman Road-Olive Branch 1262 E. Edwards-Tunica 700 Cunningham Loop-Senatobia 295 Hwy 6 West-Batesville

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THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS BETH’S BLESSINGS • Accurate Advisory Group • Bayer Crop Science • South Delta Planning & Development Dist.

LEGACY OF HOPE • Alliance Cancer Center • James Ceranti Nissan-ChryslerDodge-Jeep • Dean & Gwin Cumbaa • Delta Crop Insurance • Delta Group • Delta Health System - The Medical Center • Delta Lodging Group • Dowdy Dental Clinic • Dr. Theresa L. Skelton Orthodontics • Greenville Surgical Clinic • Gresham Petroleum Co. • GT&T Farms • Greenville Hem-Onc • Lakeisha Richardson, MD • William & Terri Lane • Mississippi Marine Corporation • Parker’s Filling Station • Planters Bank and Trust Co. • Joe & Linda Muzzi • The Heritage Club of Lake Village CIRCLE OF PROMISE • Agricultural Asset Services • Bolivar Medical Center • Susan & David Allen • Chris & Corey Auerswald • Avritt Medical Equipment • Gwen & Steve Azar • Nathan & Janet Benzing • W L Burle Engineers P.A. • Chick Filet • Chicot Irrigation • Crossley Axminster, Inc. • Delta Family Medical Services • Delta Health Alliance/Leland Medical Clinic • DeltAg Formulations • Becky and Andy Dixon • Elevate Physical Therapy and Wellness • Farmers Grain Terminal • Greenville Motor Sports • Guaranty Bank & Trust Co.

• Harlow’s Casino • Horn Research • Cindy & Lee Miers • Linda and Ken Stewart • Timothy & Andrea McCann • McDonald’s/Retzer Resources • Sarah & Larkin Mitchell • Nutrien Ag Solutions, Inc. • Scott & Angela Phillips • Regions Bank • Renasant Bank • Riverside Realty LLC • Rotary Club of Greenville • Shamoon Advertising & Marketing • South Sun昀ower County Hospital • The Steele Family • Sun昀ower Diagnostic Center/north Sun昀ower County Hospital • Kim and Gary Taylor • TROP Casino Greenville • Bobby & Dana Warrington PASSIONATELY PINK • Artist, Angela Holman • Artist, Aubrey Holman • Artist, Raney Waters • Artist, Ana Sater昀eld • Artist, Jo Parker • Brinkley Farmer • The Dental Health Center • The Alluvian • Britton Furniture of Rolling Fork LLC • Bridgers, Goodman, Baird & Clarke, PLLC • Lacy & Billy Brozovich • Karen and Finley Brunetti - Shelby Air Service • Robert E.Burford, CPA, PA • Chuck’s Dairy Bar • City Drug Store • Cypress Hills Tennis Club • Mitchell Distributing, LLC • CTM - Carol T. Meyer • Dr. and Mrs. Rob Curry • Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. • Dr. Walter Rose • Docia and Perry England • The Tea Rose Foundation • Greater Greenville • Merrill and Thomas Greenlee • Hair Depot • Heartland Cat昀sh

• High Cotton • Joe Tonos Jewelers • Kenner Patton • Lagniappe • Lake Lee Leasing, LLC • Mr. & Mrs. Claude Marchesini • Mr. & Mrs. Bill McPherson • Mosow Real Estate • Dr. & Mrs. Luther B. Oakes • Charter Medical of Greenville • Southern AgCredit • Southern Bancorp Bank • Jane & Gene Stock • Stop N Shop Leland & Hollandale • Rusty and Dana stubbs • Sun昀ower Food Store • The Clint & Ellen Johnson Foundation • The Pantry • Twin County Electric Power Association • Johanna and Martin Walker • Washington School Student Council FRIENDS HELPING FRIENDS • 2020 Eye World • 9.15 Floral Designs & Gifts • Abraham’s-Indianola • Dr. & Mrs. Jim Adams • Betsy Alexander Realty • America’s Catch, Inc. • Lee B. Aylward • Bank of Anguilla • BB King Museum • Dr. Jimmy Beckham • Beverly & Jim Bell • Bologna Performing Arts • Bologna Performing Arts Center • John Davis Causey • CB&S Bank • Charlotte & Co. (CC’s Boutique) • Chicot Casual • Cicero’s • Coleman Eye Center • Dottie Collins • Dr. and Mrs. Jerry Cunningham • Dr. and Mrs. Lee Engel • Dr. James R. Parkerson D.D.S. P.A. • Deep Delta Drugs • Deer Creek School • Delta Laser & Medical Spa • Doe’s Eat Place • Skeet & Sharmon Edwards • Emery Lee Boutique • Farmers Inc. • Forty-Nine Commissary • Nan and Billy Fountain • Caroline Laudig Gaines • Gilbow’s • Grammy Museum Mississippi • Green Apple Floral & Gifts • Greenville Dental Clinic • Greenville Golf & Country Club • Greenville Park Commission • Greenwood Le昀ore Hospital • Hsquared • Henry’s Cleaners and Laundry • Home Insurance Agency • Hoot’s BBQ • Hunter’s Pharmacy

• Italiano’s • Janitor’s Supply & Paper Company • J.J. Ferguson Sand & Gravel, Inc. • Nancy Johnson • Kretschmar Realty • Dr. Ned & Paula Kronfol • Lake Tindall, LLP • Lake Village Florist • Lavender Lane • Leland Wildlife Museum • Lillo’s • Lina’s • Lost Pizza Co. • Lucky Chicks & Country Gents • Bill & Pam Maddox • Michael Bradley May昀eld, MD • McCarty’s Gallery Restaurant • Mississippi Grounds • MJH Group, LLC • New South Marine • Neysa’s Fireside Shop • Nichols Propeller Company • Laurie & Richard Noble • Becky & Billy Nowell • Oakes Auto Group • Oh My Sugar Bakery • Peter’s Pottery • Peasoups • M/M/ Lawrence Long • Blue Biscuit • Ruth Vowell • Joyce and Pete Poole • Aletha Scott Poole • Prime • Provine Helicopter Service, Inc. • Punkin Patch • Quality Steel • Randy & Nan Randall • Valerie Rankin Art • Bob & Teresa Reed • Renew Delta Aestetics & Wellness LLC • Dr. Barbara Ricks • Salon SE • Sassy Magnolias • Sayle Sandifer & Johnson LLP • Scoops • Shelter Insurance/Bush Agency, Inc. • Sherman’s @ South Main • Shipley Donuts • Shoppes on South Main • Buster Smith • Bee and Dudley Stewart • Sun昀ower Lumber Company • Sysco • Ten Twenty Four • Marla and Jamie Bell - Tennis Unlimited, Inc. • The Blue Biscuit • The Book Inn Café’ • The Crown • The Olive Tree • The Wishing Well • Celia Anne Thomason • Vito’s Marketplace • Mr. and Mrs. William Watts, Jr. • Mr. & Mrs. Nott Wheeler • Dr. Tom & Susan Wiggins • Carol & Ken Wood • Young Ideas • Scout & Lola

DONATE TODAY: www.deltacottonbelles.org | 662-390-6009

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Christmas Gifts and GOODIES

BY CINDY COOPWOOD AND CORDELIA CAPPS • PHOTOGRAPHY BY RORY DOYLE

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Attractive glass jars are filled with homemade candy and tied with a gift tag—ready to be shared with friends.

HE HOLIDAY SEASON IS A TIME FOR JOY, warmth,

T

and togetherness, when nothing brings people closer than sharing delicious homemade treats. Christmas goodies, made only once a year, are often beloved family traditions passed down through generations. These recipes, filled with love and

nostalgia, are the perfect gifts to share with family and friends or to keep on hand through the season for teacher or hostess gifts.

We curated a great selection of holiday recipes this year and asked the Delta Magazine team to share with our readers some of their favorite family recipes to make and give!

APRICOT DATE HOLIDAY STACKS A toss of white chocolate bark with simple ingredients is all this holiday treat requires.

Perfect to take to holiday parties or to give to family and friends.

2 24-ounce packages of white chocolate 1 cup mini pretzel sticks 1 cup chopped dried apricots 1 cup chopped dates 1 cup chopped pecans

Melt white chocolate over slow heat or in 20 to 30-second intervals in the microwave. While warm, mix with remaining ingredients. Spoon into “stacks” onto wax paper and let cool completely.

May also be placed in refrigerator to harden.

Wendy Mize, Account Executive

Tip: For extra crunch and that salty/sweet

goodness, toss pecans in a little butter and salt in a skillet to toast before chopping.

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OLD-FASHIONED PEANUT BRITTLE Candy-making is not difficult—but timing and temperature are essential, so be sure to measure all ingredients beforehand to have them ready.

2 cups sugar 1 cup light corn syrup ½ cup water 2 cups salted roasted peanuts

2 tablespoons butter 1½ teaspoons soda 1½ teaspoons vanilla

Prepare a sheet pan with parchment paper.

Add sugar and water to a medium saucepan and stir well. Stir in corn syrup. Cook mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally while remaining on medium, until it comes to a gentle boil.

Make sure candy thermometer is attached and submerged in the liquid but not touching the bottom of the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until temperature reaches 250 degrees. This is important!

Add the peanuts and stir the mixture constantly until the candy thermometer temperature reaches 300 degrees.

Remove mixture from heat and immediately stir in butter, baking soda, and vanilla. The mixture will foam and change texture.

Carefully pour the hot mixture onto the prepared pan and use a knife or spoon to quickly spread the mixture into an even layer. Be very careful throughout this process—hot candy can burn badly! Then, allow to cool completely and harden (at least 30 minutes) before breaking apart and eating.

Store peanut brittle in an airtight container.

Cordelia Capps, Food Contributor

Tip: For a special touch, place a cheese ball on a wooden

platter with a glass dome for a beautiful presentation— ready to serve, and a useful gift!

CRANBERRY PECAN GOAT CHEESE BALL The tart-sweet flavor bursting from this elevated cheese ball will make it your new go-to to take to gatherings.

8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature 8 ounces goat cheese, softened ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce 1 cup dried cranberries chopped, divided 1 cup pecan chips, divided ¼ cup sliced green onions, divided

In a large bowl, mix the cream cheese and goat cheese, using a hand mixer if needed, until well combined. Add the Worcestershire sauce and half each of the cranberries, pecans, and green onions, setting aside the remainder of each. Mix until well combined.

Place a large piece of plastic wrap on a flat surface. Spoon the mixture into the center of the plastic wrap. Bring up the edges of the plastic wrap to cover the cheese and gently shape into a ball. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours.

Before serving, place the remaining cranberries, pecans, and green onions in a shallow bowl. Unwrap the cheese ball and gently roll it in the mixture to cover.

Serve with crackers and enjoy.

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Cheerfully wrapped and ready to go, packages of hot drink mixes or any other small treat, make the perfect Christmas happy for teacher’s gifts, hostess happies or take-home favors after a holiday party.

DELTA FUDGE So good, super-easy, and made in the microwave! Microwave watts may vary; adjust cooking time accordingly.

1 stick butter ¼ cup cocoa ¼ cup evaporated milk 1 (1-pound) box confectioners’ sugar ½ cup chopped nuts ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract

In a medium glass bowl, melt butter for 45 seconds. Add cocoa, evaporated milk, and confectioners’ sugar. Cover with wax paper and microwave for 2 minutes. Beat by hand until smooth. Add nuts and vanilla and gently combine. Pour into a buttered 8 x 8 pan. Chill and cut into squares.

Originally published in the Delta Magazine Cookbook

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PACKAGING AND WRAPPING TIPS • Keep clear plastic goodie bags in several sizes on hand throughout the holidays to fill with treats to share.

• Stock up on ribbons of several widths, colors, and textures.

• Consider having personalized gift tags made for a special touch • Add extra touches with a snip of greenery, a jingle bell, or an ornament, and tie it with plenty of ribbon.

• For hot drink mixes, snag inexpensive holiday mugs at the dollar store or flea markets—these are vintage! Fill with a packed treat, and you have the perfect teacher gift or hostess happy.

• Scout the dollar store for inexpensive containers and baker boxes to have on hand, ready to be filled.

PUMPKIN CINNAMON CAKE BALLS Cake balls are easy to make, fun to assemble, and a perfect addition to any holiday party!

1 recipe of your favorite pumpkin bread 1 container cream cheese icing ½ teaspoon cinnamon 1 package white chocolate ½ teaspoon cinnamon

Crumble pumpkin bread or cake, mix with icing and cinnamon, and chill until slightly firm. Roll into balls and chill again.

In a large bowl, melt white chocolate in 20-second increments in microwave, and stir in additional ½ teaspoon cinnamon. Roll cake balls in chocolate and set on wax paper, allowing chocolate to harden. If desired, sprinkle with a few pinches of cinnamon sugar before chocolate hardens. Place in refrigerator to completely set.

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• Make non-perishable recipes in advance and have them packaged and ready to go. Simply add a gift tag when you need a last-minute gift!

Tip: Keep clear plastic goodie

bags on hand throughout the holidays to fill with treats to share. Add a special touch with a snip of greenery, an ornament, and tie it with plenty of ribbon. !

Homemade Holiday Happies HOT COCOA MIX Loved by all ages, nothing is better than hot cocoa on a chilly morning or by the fire. Spoon this simple mixture into individual bags, tie with a ribbon, and share with friends during the holidays!

1 8-quart box powdered milk 1 pound box Nesquik chocolate powder 1 pound box powdered sugar 1 6-ounce jar Coffee-Mate creamer

Blend together in large container. Makes approximately 44 servings. Use ⅓ cup of mix in mug of hot water.

Cristen Hemmins, Account Executive

NANA’S SPICED TEA When she was growing up, Editor Cindy Coopwood’s mother, Mary Katherine Callahan, always kept spiced tea on hand throughout the holidays and made plenty to share with friends, packaged in mason jars and tied with a ribbon.

2 cups sugar 2 cups orange-flavored breakfast beverage crystals ⅔ cup presweetened lemonade mix ½ cup instant tea mix 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon 1 tablespoon ground cloves

Combine all ingredients. Package in an airtight container. Yield 4½ cups.

To serve, place 2 heaping tablespoons of mix in a cup or mug. Add ¾ cup boiling water; stir well and enjoy.

HOT MOCHA SPICE MIX This creamy blend has all the feels of hot chocolate but with a touch of spice. Plus, it’ll be a hit with the coffee lovers on your list. It’s a perfect homemade teacher gift or hostess happy!

1 cup creamer 1 cup hot cocoa mix 1 cup instant coffee ¾ cup sugar ½ teaspoon cinnamon ¼ teaspoon nutmeg

Blend all ingredients in a large container.

Mix 3 to 4 tablespoons into cup or mug of hot water and enjoy.

Divide into smaller containers or bags to give as gifts.

Cindy Coopwood, Editor

Mary Katherine Callahan

Handwritten, edited, and oft-stained recipe cards may be a thing of the past but are a familiar sight and a treasured keepsake for many home cooks. Cristen Hemmins shares her long-time favorite hot cocoa recipe in its original form!

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BROTHER’S HOMEMADE CINNAMON ROLLS Cadey True began baking bread in earnest after losing her brother Cliff, finding it helped keep her hands busy during such a difficult time. The smell of fresh bread and cinnamon rolls still fills the True home most weekends.

6 cups bread flour 1¼ cup of sourdough bread starter ⅓ cup sugar ½ cup avocado oil 1 tablespoon salt 4 tablespoons butter, melted 1½ tablespoons rapid-rise yeast ⅓ cup of brown sugar 1½ cup warm water 3 to 4 tablespoons cinnamon, or to taste

Whisk the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast together and set aside. In a large bowl, combine warm water, bread starter and avocado oil. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing well until a soft dough forms. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise for 8 hours.

Roll out dough on a floured surface into an approximate 14 x 8-inch rectangle. Brush the dough with melted butter, spread brown sugar over butter, and sprinkle cinnamon on top of brown sugar.

Roll up the dough, starting from the long side, making a log. Cut into 1 to 2-inch round rolls to make 10 to 12 cinnamon rolls. Place in a greased 9 x 13 baking dish and let rise for 3 to 6 hours.

Bake at 400 degrees for 15 minutes or until lightly brown on top.

Should make about 12 cinnamon rolls.

Icing 2 pounds of powdered sugar 1 tablespoon vanilla 1 8-ounce cream cheese, softened 1 to 1½ cups milk, depending on preferred consistency

Blend all ingredients together, adding more or less milk.

Frost cinnamon rolls with icing after baking. Enjoy!

Cadey True, Account Executive 170 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

Statement of Ownership, management, and circulation for Delta Magazine. Publication No. 022-954 as of September 1, 2024. Six issues published bi-monthly for a subscription rate of $28 at P.O. Box 117, Cleveland, MS 38732.

The names and address of the publisher and editor: Publisher and Owner, Scott Coopwood, PO Box 117, Cleveland, MS 38732; Editor, Cindy Coopwood, PO Box 117, Cleveland, MS 38732.

Average No. of Copies Actual No. of Copies Each Issue During Single Issue Published Preceding 12 Months Nearest to Filing Date

Total no. of copies printed Paid circulation through mail Paid circulation through dealers and carriers, street vendors, and counter sales Paid circulation by other classes of mail through the USPS (First-Class, Priorty) Total paid distribution Free distribution through mail Free circulation by other classes of mail through the USPS (First-Class, Priorty) Free distribution outside mail Total free distribution Total distribution Total Percent paid Paid electronic copies Total paid print copies and paid electronic copies Total print distribution and paid electronic copies Percent paid

9,050

9,100

5,799

5,687

707

682

50

50

6,556

6,419

1,254

1,203

20

20

786 2,060 8,616 9,050 75.95% 32

1,039 2,262 8,681 9,100 73.79% 26

6,588

6,445

8,648 76.18%

8,707 74.02%

I certify that the statement made by me above is correct and complete.

(Signed) Scott Coopwood, Publisher

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HISTORY

BILLY SONGBIRD DEATON While the building was cookin’, Songbird was bookin’

BY JIM MICHIE

174 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

Early promo shot in San Antonio of Billy Deaton.

Billy Deaton got his start at the Delta Theater in Ruleville.

egend has it that Billy Joe “Songbird” Deaton was booking acts until the last minute before he had to evacuate a building on fire.

Although unsubstantiated, it makes a good story for Billy Deaton, who successfully booked acts in Nashville beginning in the 60’s and ran Billy Deaton Enterprises until his death in Nashville in 2009.

L

Billy Joe Deaton was born in Booger Den, Mississippi, a community outside of Ruleville, Mississippi, in the 1940’s. He worked helping his father with sharecropping cotton and corn and quickly learned that agriculture wasn’t in his future.

He moved to Ruleville when he was 15, finding work as a janitor and projectionist at the Delta Theater, a local cinema owned

by Bem and Corrine Jackson of Ruleville.

Jim Goudelock, nephew of the Jacksons, recounts, “They adored Billy Deaton. I remember Uncle Bem would let him sing songs during the breaks of double features.

Picture in your mind, pages torn off and flying away on a calendar. It’s Boulder, Colorado, in the 1970’s. I bought a Charley Pride album and loved it. One day, I turned the album cover over and my jaw dropped. I KNOW that guy. Not Charley,

but the white guy in a suit shaking hands with Charley. It’s Songbird Deaton. Hadn’t thought of him in years but had heard recently that he was doing well as an A and R guy in Nashville. This proved it.”

When Deaton worked at the Delta Theatre, he saved his money to buy a guitar. When he ran the projector showing movies, Bem started getting complaints from balcony patrons as Deaton would sing and play loudly once the movie started.

“We can’t hear the movie because Songbird is singing so loud in the movie room!”

After he got his guitar, he would sing any chance he could: walking down Ruleville streets, sitting on the hood of parked cars downtown, during the double feature movie break, almost anywhere he could find where there was someone within listening distance. Ted Borodofsky, DELTA MAGAZINE 2024

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Deaton, Faron Young, and Johnny Cash circa 1965.

President of Planters Bank and Trust, with his office close to the Delta Theater, tagged Deaton with the “Songbird” moniker, and it stuck.

Deaton later joined the Air Force and did trained at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas. He started booking bands for the base and began a career as DJ on the base’s radio station. After a stint in Iceland, he returned to San Antonio. He 176 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

met Charlie Walker, a future Grand Ole Opry star who later would invite Deaton to continue his booking in Nashville. After his separation from the service, Deaton formed his own band and released several singles that were regional hits. He met Faron Young and managed him during his peak years as a country artist. A sampling of Deaton’s booking included Andy Williams, Ray Price, Connie Smith,

Charley Pride and Faron Young. Faron’s fiddle player, Ernie Reed, who still resides in Nashville, recalled, “Deaton booked us everywhere. I mean everywhere. He wouldn’t think twice about us playing in the Midwest and then the next night playing in Georgia. We had to drive all night and not in the luxury busses of today.

It was work. We kept threatening to tie Deaton to the bumper on some of those

Bem Jackson in front of Delta Theatre.

Deaton with coworker Phyliss Hill.

Deaton and Faron Young.

Faron’s last photo.

long trips that he booked (laughing). But we worked, and we worked a lot, thanks to Deaton.”

Deaton grew to be one of the premier national country and western booking agents. Ed Canaday, guitarist for the late Kitty Wells, remembered, “I met Deaton once in his office in the Young building in Nashville. There were what seemed like hundreds of 8 x 10 promotional pictures in

frames on the wall and the ones that weren’t in frames were stapled to the wall. I don’t think there was room for one more picture.” Canaday continued, “It was the typical booking agent office, crammed full of photos, the smell of cigarette smoke, and stacks of papers everywhere. I remember shaking Deaton’s hand and how cordial he was.” Ernie Reed quipped, “…and he probably was in every picture on the wall!”

Deaton occasionally had the Jacksons as guests at the Grand Ole Opry, and he returned to Ruleville frequently.

Billy Joe Deaton died after a long illness and crippling arthritis in 2009 and is buried in Nashville. He was the recipient of an AIRA (Academy of Independent Recording Artists) Award as Booking Agent of the Decade in the ’70s. DM

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DELTA MAGAZINE 2024

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EVENTS

50 Nights of Lights November 11–January 1 Light Garden, November 22–January 1, 2025

FESTIVALS, MUSIC & FUN THINGS TO DO August 23–February 2

Cleveland

November 2, 7 pm

Memphis

November 7, 7:30 pm

Taylor Swift: Through The Eras

Kat Timpf: I Used To Like You Tour

John Michael Montgomery

Grammy Museum Mississippi grammymuseumms.org

Halloran Centre orpheum-memphis.com

Bologna Performing Arts Center bolognapac.com

September 19–April 13, 2025

Cleveland

November 2, 6:30 pm

Cleveland

November 7, 7 pm–9 pm

Music America: Iconic Objects From America’s Music History

Squirrel Nut Zippers Day of the Dead Concert

First Thursdays at the Museum with Stephen Pillow

Grammy Museum Mississippi grammymuseumms.org

Ellis Theater visitclevelandms.com

B.B. King Museum bbkingmuseum.org

October 15–November 1

Hernando

Flower Fields, Pumpkin Patch & Corn Maze Cedar Hill Farm visitdesotocounty.com

November 3, 3:30 pm–5 pm

Memphis

Becky Robinson: She Gone Tour Halloran Centre orpheum-memphis.com

Southaven

Fantasia

Old Armory Pavilion visitoxfordms.com

Silo Square visitdesotocounty.com

Yazoo City

November 7–9

Christmas Open House

Holiday Open House

Downtown Yazoo City visityazoo.org

Downtown Grenada visitgrenadams.com

Southaven

Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony Silo Square visitdesotocounty.com

Landers Center visitdesotocounty.com

November 7

November 8, 7:30 pm

Memphis

Halloran Centre orpheum-memphis.com

Clarksdale November 8, 5:30 pm–8:30 pm

When Pigs Fly in Grenada BBQ Contest Downtown Square visitgrenadams.com

Downtown Clarksdale visitclarksdale.com

Downtown Indianola indianolams.gov

Grenada

Grenada

The Orchestra Unplugged: Leonard Bernstein- More Than Maestro

Holiday Open House and Christmas Tree Lighting

November 1–2

Southaven

5th Annual Christmas Open House

November 6, 6 pm November 1, 8 pm

November 7–9

Indianola

Oxford on Skates

November 3, 1 pm November 1, 7 pm

Oxford

Cleveland

Indianola

Indianola Holiday Open House

November 8 The Nutcracker Ballet, November 8–9, Southaven; December 13–15, Memphis

Tunica

Aaron Lewis Gold Strike Casino Resort tunicatravel.com

November 8–9

Hernando

Hernando Dickens of a Christmas Hernando Courthouse Square visitdesotocounty.com

November 8–9

The Nutcracker Ballet Silo Square visitdesotocounty.com 182 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

Southaven

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Peter Pan, November 26–December 1

John Michael Montgomery, November 7

November 9, 10 am–4 pm

Memphis

November 15, 7 pm

Memphis

November 19, 6 pm–8 pm

Oxford

Memphis Crafts & Drafts Holiday Market

The Orpheum Soiree

Oxford Square Lighting with Santa Clause

Crosstown Concourse memphistravel.com

Orpheum Theatre orpheum-memphis.com

The Square visitoxfordms.com

November 10

Oxford

Various Businesses visitoxfordms.om

November 10, 1 pm

November 15–16

Horn Lake

2nd Annual Cowboy Up 4 Our Parks Pro Rodeo

Shop Oxford Holiday Open House

November 21, 7:30 pm–9:15 pm Cleveland

Home For The Holidays Bologna Performing Arts Center bolognapac.com

Latimer Lakes Park visitdesotocounty.com

November 21–January 8

Hernando November 16–April 13, 2025

Hernando Courthouse Square visitdesotocounty.com

Of Salt and Spirit: Black Quilters in the American South

Graceland memphistravel.com

Mississippi Museum of Art msmuseumart.org

November 21–23

November 11–January 1

Cleveland

50 Nights of Lights Downtown Cleveland 50nightsoflights.com

November 13, 7:30 pm

November 16 Memphis

An Evening with Judy Collins Halloran Centre orpheum-memphis.com

November 15, 8 pm-10 pm

Jackson

Morgan Wade- The Obsessed Tour Minglewood Hall memphistravel.com

Greenville

Rivertown Christmas Crawl and Open House Downtown Greenville wceams.com/rivertown_christmas/

Shaun Boothe: The Unauthorized Biography Series Bologna Performing Arts Center bolognapac.com

Elf,Jr. The Musical, November 21–23

Graceland Christmas Tour, November 21–January 8 184 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

Southaven

Elf, Jr. The Musical

November 19, 9:30 am–12:30 pm Cleveland Memphis

Memphis

Graceland Christmas Tour

Christmas Open House

Cornerstone Church visitdesotocounty.com

November 21–23

Memphis

Graceland Holiday Lighting Weekend Graceland memphistravel.com

November 22, 6 pm

Holiday Tree Lighting Celebration & Santa!

Tanger Outlets visitdesotocounty.com

Southaven

FIND THE PERFECT CHRISTMAS GIFT

HUNTING • OUTDOOR • COOKING

Indianola, MS

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Oxford Squre Lighting with Santa Clause, November 19

The Magic of Jen Kramer, December 14

Justin Timberlanke, November 23

November 22

Tunica

November 29, 5 pm

Parmalee

City of Vicksburg Tree Lighting

Gold Strike Casino Resort tunicatravel.com

Washington Street Park visitvicksburg.com

November 22, 7 pm

Memphis

November 29–December 23

Vicksburg

December 5, 6 pm–9 pm

Louise

The BIGGEST, Little Christmas Parade in the Delta Hernando

Main Street catfishcapitol.com

A Rockin’ Memphis Christmas Concert

Eat with Santa Brunch & Dinner

December 5, 7 pm–9 pm

Graceland memphistravel.com

Christmas Traditions Light Show Cedar Hill Farm visitdesotocounty.com

First Thursdays at the Museum with Blackwater Trio

November 22–January 1, 2025 Olive Branch December 1, 1:30 pm–5:30 pm

Light Garden

Downtown Christmas Old-Fashioned Open House

Olive Branch City Park visitdesotocounty.com

November 22–23

Jackson

Handworks Holiday Market

Memphis

Justin Timberlake: The Forget Tomorrow World Tour

Oxford

Holly Jolly Holidays mTrade Park visitoxfordms.com

Memphis

Graceland Soundstage memphistravel.com

Memphis

Orpheum Theatre orpheum-memphis.com

December 2, 6:30 pm

Vicksburg

Cedar Hill Farm visitdesotocounty.com

Yazoo City Christmas Parade

Hernando

Memphis

December 3

Orpheum Theatre orpheum-memphis.com

Downtown Christmas Parade

Yazoo City

Downtown Starkville starkville.org

Holiday Art Market

186 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

The Powerhouse visitoxfordms.com

Memphis

Mingelwood Hall memphistravel.com

Starkville

Oktibbeha County Heritage Museum starkville.org

December 6–7

Jackson

The District at Eastover visitjackson.com

Memphis

Midsouth Toy Fest 2024 Clarksdale

The Great Hall & Conference Center memphistravel.com

December 7, 8 am

Vicksburg

O Christmas Tree Historic Home Tours

Starkville December 4–7

December 6, 8 pm–10 pm

December 7, 9 am

Downtown Clarksdale visitclarksdale.com

Starkville Black Friday Bonanza

Capitol Street visitjackson.com

Deck The District

Downtown Yazoo City visityazoo.org

Peter Pan

Jackson

2nd Annual Festival Of Trees

DeSoto County Courthouse visitdesotocounty.com

December 3, 6 pm

MDWFP’S Mississippi Museum of Natural Science visitjackson.com

December 6–7, 9 am

65th Annual Candyland Christmas Parade Hernando

Jackson

Moon Taxi

Downtown Vicksburg visitvicksburg.com

Christmas Tree Farm

November 29, 6 am–5 pm

Vicksburg

Reindeer Run 5k

Nikki Glaser: Alive and Unwell Tour

Centennial Green catfishcapitol.com

4th Annual Capital City Lights

Downtown Vicksburg visitvicksburg.com

December 2, 8 am

Belzoni

3rd Annual Belzoni Christmas Tree Lighting

December 6, 5 pm–8 pm

Vicksburg Christmas Parade of Lights

Dean Z’s Ultimate Elvis Christmas

November 26–December 1

Vicksburg

Levee Street Marketplace visitvicksburg.com

December 2, 5 pm

December 6, 5 pm–7 pm

S.T.E.M. with Snowflakes

Levee Street Marketplace 10th Annual Open House

November 23–January 5, 2025

B.B. King Museum bbkingmuseum.org

December 6, 9 am–12 pm

Downtown Starkville starkville.org

December 2, 10 am

FedEx Forum memphistravel.com

November 23–December 22

Starkville

Starkville Christmas Parade

November 23,7:30 pm

November 23, 7 pm

Downtown Vicksburg visitvicksburg.com

December 2, 6 pm–7 pm

Mississippi Trade Mart visitjackson.com

November 23, 7 pm–9 pm

Vicksburg

Indianola

Oxford

Downtown Vicksburg visitvicksburg.com

DELTA MAGAZINE 2024

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New Year’s Eve at the Crossroads, December 31

December 8, 7:30 pm

Southaven

The Very Merry Christmas Tour Landers Center visitdesotocounty.com

LITERARY EVENTS Jill Tew In Conversation with Avery Cunningham

December 12–13

Jackson

Homestead For The Holidays Mississippi Agriculture & Forestry Museum visitjackson.com

The Dividing Sky November 2, 2 pm: Novel, Memphis Anne Dickerson

Always Tina: Tribute to Tina Turner

Waterfall Secret: Book Signing

Gold Strike Casino Resort tunicatravel.com

November 2, 10 am: Lemuria Books, Jackson

November 13

Tunica

December 13–14 December 7

Memphis

A Charlie Brown Christmas: Live On Stage Orpheum Theatre orpheum-memphis.com

Jackson

Bill Crawford

Snow Much Fun

A Republican’s Lament

MDWFP’S Mississippi Museum of Natural Science visitjackson.com

November 6, 5:30 pm: Off Square Books, Oxford

December 13–15

Valley So Low

Jared Sullivan

December 7–8

New Albany

A Christmas Home Tour Various Locations newalbanymsgardenclub.org

December 7, 2 pm

Olive Branch

December 14, 7:30 pm

Charles King and Michael Beattie

Every Valley: Book Signing Memphis

The Magic of Jen Kramer

Clarksdale

December 14, 8 am

Holiday Open House

Breakfast with Santa

Heaton Pecans heatonpecans.com

Vicksburg Convention Center visitvicksburg.com

Horn Lake

Horn Lake Christmas Parade

December 17, 7:30 pm

Waterfall Secret: Book Signing November 9, 10 am: Lemur Books, Jackson

Vicksburg

November 9, 10 am: Lemuria Books, Jackson

Memphis

Leland

58th Annual Christmas on Deer Creek

December 18, 7:30 pm

Downtown Leland lelandchamber.com

Drew & Ellie Holcomb’s Neighborly Christmas

December 7–8, 6:30 pm

Orpheum Theatre orpheum-memphis.com

Hernando

Willy Vlautin

Memphis

December 19, 8 pm

December 8, 2 pm–5 pm

Hernando

The Horse November 21, 6 pm: The Powerhouse, Oxford Hal Kitchings

Dog-Gone, It Hurts November 25, 6 pm: Novel, Memphis

Annual Christmas Market The Gatorade Fieldhouse visitdesotocounty.com

Susan Minot

Don’t Be A Stranger November 14, 6 pm: The Powerhouse, Oxford

Orpheum Theatre orpheum-memphis.com

December 7, 9 am–9 pm

Robyn Wall

I Worked On That: Book Signing

An Evening with Gregory Porter

Latimer Lakes Park visitdesotocounty.com

November 7, 5 pm: Lemuria Books, Jackson Anne Dickerson

Halloran Centre orpheum-memphis.com

Olive Branch High School visitdesotocounty.com

December 7, 6 pm

November 7, 6 pm: The Powerhouse, Oxford

Orpheum Theatre orpheum-memphis.com

47th Annual Olive Branch Christmas Parade

December 7

Memphis

Ballet Memphis’ The Nutcracker

Memphis

Jeff Roberson

A Drag Queen Christmas

The Egg Bowl: Book Signing

Orpheum Theatre orpheum-memphis.com

November 30, 11 am: Off Square Books, Oxford

Annual Cookie’s With Santa Gale Center visitdesotocounty.com

December 8, 1 pm

December 21, 9:30 am

Anchuca’s Breakfast with Santa Vicksburg

Attic Gallery Christmas Open House Attic Gallery visitvicksburg.com

December 8, 2 pm

Anchuca Mansion visitvicksburg.com

December 22, 6:30 pm Vicksburg

2nd Annual Old Fashion Christmas Old Court House Museum visitvicksburg.com

Greenville

Greenville Christmas Parade Downtown Main Street visitgreenville.org 188 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

Memphis

Jan Brett

Alice In A Winter Wonderland

Orpheum Theatre orpheum-memphis.com

Clarksdale

New Year’s Eve at the Crossroads Various Downtown Venues visitclarksdale.com

Wyatt Waters

The 2025 Calendar: Book Signing November 30, 12 pm: Lemuria Books, Jackson December 14, 12 pm: Lemuria Books, Jackson

Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis

December 31, 11:30 am December 9

Vicksburg

November 2, 2pm: Collierville Elementary School, Collierville

DM

DELTA MAGAZINE 2024

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192 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

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DELTA SEEN

Lisa Cookston, Kara Dulaney, Stacye Trout, Lisa Melton

Lauren Farmer, Sam Henry Farmer, Ashley Farmer

ArtPlace of Mississippi Garden Party in Greenwood at the home of Merritt and Hank Reichle on August 29 Cocktail reception and art show featuring Chesley Pearman in Merigold at McCarty’s Gallery Restaurant on October 17

Brian Barnes, Will Barrett, Hart Kittle

Lanelle Tollinson, Mari Parker Makamson, Marietta Branch

Hank and Merritte Reichle

Jenny Smith, Mary Helen Varner, MaeMae McGee, Signe Adams, Cordelia Capps, and Anne Koonce

Jamie and Jenny Smith, Charlie Pearman, Chesley Pearman, Amy and Stephen Smith, and John Miller

Stephen Smith with Chesley Pearman at the opening of Pearman’s art exhibit at the Gallery Restaurant in Mary Helen Varner and Frances Hardman Merigold

Exhibit designer and artist Will Gray Dave Alford, Carol Hilburn, and Edwards with Pearman Angie Kent

194 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

Grammy Museum Mississippi River and Roses Gala in Cleveland on October 3.

Photos by Lyndsi Naron

DELTA SEEN

Tiffany Lyles and Susan Powell

Kris Yeager Prewitt, Karen Brunetti and Kate Hood

Michael and Lauren Boulanger, with Noah and Brittany Hill

Geney Galey with Floyd and Lisa Melton

Jen and John Mohead

Jay Ragan and Mary Beth Smith

Angie and Robert Cole with Dodd and Katie Turner

Heather and Darby Miles with Lisa Cooley, and Jamie Lee

Sandy and Art Tidmore

Lonna Ragan and Bill Ratliff

Becky and Billy Nowell

Kelsey Overstreet and Kelsey Sprawling

Catiland Jones and Lyndsi Naron

Mark and Kathie Boone

Kristen Crow, Naomi Jennings, Haley Chaney, Emmy Millwood, Meredith Fletcher, Katie Boykin, Ashton Rogers, Jana Alford, Corley Mullins, Lacy Radicioni, and MK Deweese

Robert Ming, Alex Janoush, Mary Grace Summers, Coleman Warrington, Desira Warrington, and Tom Janoush Alex and Meredith Fletcher DELTA MAGAZINE 2024

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DELTA SEEN

Delta Rising event at the Powerhouse in Oxford on August 23.

Photos by Arielle Victoria

Kevin Kessinger, Meri and Tim Tenhet, and John Alford

Trevor and Alison Yant with Leigh and Buddy Bass

Alvin Youngblood Hart, John Mohead, Boo Mitchell and Cary Hudson

Cindy Coopwood with Jenn Mohead

Joey and Hannah Young

Sparky Reardon and Chesley Pearman

Edna Luckett, Ricky Davis, Mike Thorn, Micol Davis, Alvin Youngblood Hart, Cary Hudson, John Mohead (seated), Mark Slogel, (back), Lina Beech, Dr. John Brahan, Vince Barranco, Jim “Fish” Michie, and Alphonso Sanders

Chesley Pearman, Craig and Cathy Miller, Rachel Causey, Sam Sanders and Amos Harvey 196 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

Charlie Crocker, Trish Denton, Rosemary Crocker, and Renee Young O’Neill

Musicians Lina Beech and John Mohead performing at the event

Mighty Roots Music Festival in Stovall on September 13.

Bobby and Sally Carson with Jimmy Walker and his father Jimmy Walker, Sr.

Lee Holcomb of Boise, Idaho, Guest Future Delta speaker Paul Ollinger, Denise Conte of New York City and Frank Howell of Delta Council

Happy revelers at the Mighty Roots Festival!

Mark River with Becky Bobo Williams

DELTA SEEN

Eric Townsend, Kate Seibert, Grace Young, Lori Townsend, and Val Agostinelli

Irma Hicks, Lisa Maraventano, Erin Lee, and Gary Vincent

Cali Noland with Lucy and Robert Weinstein

Jimmy Walker Sr., Clint Hood, Keith and Shaun Leigh Freeman, and Jimmy Walker

Paige Daughtery, Kelly Connell, and Lisa Melton

Quint Stovall on the right with friends from Denver, Chicago, Houston, and Memphis DELTA MAGAZINE 2024

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DELTA SEEN

Wife of the late Jerry Lee Lewis, Judith Lewis, with Jerry Lee Lewis III, and Joe Lang with Delta Regional Foundation

The new bronze statue of Mississippi music icon Jerry Lee Lewis, designed by artist Sonja Metzler, was recently installed at Silo Square in Southaven

198 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

Photos courtesy of Community Foundation of Northwest Mississippi

The Brian Hill Family

Tom Pittman, former Executive Director of the Community Foundation of Northwest Mississippi, with Todd Herendeen and Judith Lewis

Lexi Hill Grisanti, Brian Hill, Mayor Darren Musselwhite, Judith Lewis, Tom Pittman, Leah Brigance, and Donnie Chambliss

Statue artist, Sonja Metzler with Judith Lewis

Jerry Lee Lewis Memorial Statue unveiling celebration at Silo Square in Southaven on September 20.

Judith Lewis and Ameliea Dulaney

Keith Fulcher, Angel Herendeen, Todd Herendeen, and Joe Lang

Tom Pittman, Angel Herendeen, Todd Herendeen, Judith Lewis, Jerry Lee Lewis III, and Donnie Chambliss

Executive Director of the Community Foundation of Northwest Mississippi, Keith Fulcher, with Leah Brigance and Lexi Grisanti Hill

Kappa Alpha Order Court of Honor celebration on October 10 at the Old Capitol Inn Hotel in Jackson. Photos by Jenny Bourn Wilson A selection of photos by Delta Magazine readers.

DELTA SEEN

Seated left to right: Richard Warren, Joe Bailey, Wayne Upchurch, Buddy Dearman, Pope Mallette, Joey Buchanan and Marion Gray Lisa Barker and Bubba Simmons Standing: Charlie Stephenson, Homer Sledge, Chance Carter, Justin Martin, Chad Riemann, and Jim Streetman

Caroline and Cal Mayo

John Rodgers Brashier, Jimmy Maxwell and Joey Buchanan

Lisa Dyess and Chef David Crews with Lara and Pier Roy

Art and Liz Spratlin, John Hill and Haley Scott and Cindy Coopwood with Taylor Reed and Jordan Coopwood Fisackerly

Landy and Donna Hurdle with Tripp and Teresa Ragland on the 19th hole at Payne’s Valley in Branson, Missouri

Alyssa Ellis Killebrew, Sally Belle Scott, Heather Keeler Ellis Sellers, and Scott Ellis joined a group of Bolivar Countians to recognize and celebrate their relatives, the Keeler family

Lee and Lisa Paris, Alyce and David Krouse, Carey Johnston, Tim Climer, and Homer and Susan Sledge

Sloan Walker, Delta Rice Queen, Haley Fyfe, recipient of the Dr. James Smith Memorial Scholarship and Ridge Richard, Delta Rice Ambassador, were all recognized during the Annual Rice Festival held on September 16 in Merigold

A group of Memphis friends celebrating a birthday at the Cotton Cleveland’s Marisol and Rory Doyle, House in Cleveland. Pictured left to right: Jenny Haddad, Molly owners of Lena’ Pizza, in Milan, where Griesbeck, Michelle Wilson, Katie Alpert, Dawn Coletta, Jena Marisol placed 83rd in the top 100 Best Miller, Mary Beth Smith, Elizabeth Allen, and Anna Wunderlich Pizza Chefs in the world DELTA MAGAZINE 2024

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Thefinalword Evergreen Wishes

A Delta transplant, Jon Alverson is the publisher and editor of the Delta Democrat-Times. He lives in Greenville with his wife and children.

rowing up in South Alabama and Florida, evergreen trees were integral to my life.

My family has been in the lumber business since 1912, when my greatgrandfather William Henry Harold founded Harold Bros. Veneer Mill in Brewton, Alabama. The family still has a few hundred acres of planted pines maturing in that same area today.

The hurricanes that battered the Gulf Coast knocked down pine trees around our house when they skidded through in September and October.

My friends, the Eubanks, still farm Christmas trees just south of Gainesville in Wacahoota (pronounced Wak-a-hoot-ee).

There was never a more important evergreen than the one my two uncles, John George Shell and Joseph Clarence Shell, would venture off into the woods to find a tree for my grandmother’s house at Christmas.

The trees were often not in the best shape.

They didn’t come from a tree farm and

G

200 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

BY JON ALVERSON

had not been groomed to be a Christmas tree.

They’d often be found in the middle of a clearcut after the loggers had had their way with the tall stands of pines thereon.

They barely held the baubles and lights we’d try to drape on them, but there they sat in the living room of the oldest house in East Brewton, Alabama.

They were often held upright in a fivegallon bucket filled with rocks and sand.

When my brother, cousins, and I were young children, most of our gifts would not be under the tree but unwrapped and on the couches as though Santa had just left them there for us.

After waiting in the hall for what seemed like hours while my grandfather prepared himself, we’d rush into the living room and dive on the couches to sort through the presents.

After we’d handled all the gifts, someone would start passing out wrapped presents to their recipients.

The youngest of us had little interest in those wrapped gifts as we could tell from the Robbins and McGowin’s stickers on the boxes (A clothing store in town) that they would be shirts and pants.

Those Christmas mornings at my grandmother’s house were mandatory attendance and were attended well, but with her age and our family diaspora, they ended.

I can’t remember when the last Christmas morning was held there, but I know we didn’t realize it was the last one at the time.

I have always been a stickler for a live Christmas tree in the house. It’s a battle I’ve fought with my wife for the last fifteen years and will continue to do so.

This will be our twelfth Christmas in the Delta, and every year we purchase our trees from tree lots, as everyone does. There’s no other way to find one.

Rare is the evergreen tree to be found in

the woods here. And that’s becoming rarer still.

In the 1950s, when the Greenville Country Club was building its golf course at the current location, one of the members insisted on planting about 275 pine trees on the property.

Those trees lasted until about five years ago when they were invaded by Pine Bark Beetles. Those bugs devastate pine tree populations and strike fear into the heart of any pine farmer.

All the pine trees on the GGCC property are dead, as are most of the pine trees in the Delta.

In fact, on a recent trip to Rayville, Louisiana to watch the Washington School Generals play, I scanned the roadside for a living pine tree.

The only live pine tree I saw on the trip was a mangled stump of a thing on a power line near Terry, Louisiana.

I miss the pines.

I miss the mangled little evergreens my uncles would cut for my grandmother’s house.

I miss the nights spent keeping wild hogs out of the Christmas trees on the Eubanks’ farm.

But mostly, I miss the people associated with those memories who have passed on.

It’s especially poignant at Christmas, and while the longing can sometimes bring sadness, the memories we have can also bring smiles.

This Christmas, like the rest in the Delta, will be a time without pines or shabby, hand-cut trees, but it will be the memories my children carry with them, just like those days for me back in Alabama and Florida.

They will remember Christmas on Deer Creek in Leland, the Fifty Nights of Lights in Cleveland, and riding in a Model-A pickup in the Greenville Christmas Parade.

I just wish there were a few more pine trees around. DM

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Shown: vinyl panels are in use, while mesh panels are retracted out of sight.

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Shown: mesh panels are in use, while clear vinyl panels are retracted out of sight.

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