Delta Magazine November/December 2018 Complimentary Issue

Delta

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

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T THIS HOLIDAY Y,

GIVE G V HOPE O A PLACE T GROW TO As the year draws to a close, A WE RElECT ON WHAT S IMPORTANT #HILDREN S OF -ISSISSIPPI IS EXPANDING AND MODERNIZING THE STATE S ONLY CHILDREN S HOSPITAL AND OUR PEDIATRIC SPECIALTY CLINICS (ERE FAMILIES kND HOPE

(ELP US GROW SO THEY CAN GROW

'IVE TODAY AT GROWCHILDRENS ORG

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Holiday 2018

39 Y E A R S OF G OU R M ET PEC A N GIF TS

Gourmet pecan products made in the Mississippi Delta make special gifts as well as the perfect items to keep on hand for entertaining.

We have a wide assortment of flavors, using only the finest ingredients and innovative recipes, and a variety of gift tins, boxes and baskets to suit any gift need.

The Original Praline Pecan

TM

1-800-541-6252 • pecanhouse.com Our Original Store in Indianola, Market Street in Flowood, Mall at Barnes Crossing in Tupelo ©2018 IPH, Inc.

Flowers Manor M Retirement Comm munity is the §Ġă 'ĤƫăŬăŅõă ĤŅ ŹĠă 'ăĺŹØ

Flowers Manor Retirement Community

(662)627-2222 www.mss.org .

4 ...serving older adults in the spirit of Christian love.

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DELTA M

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Publisher: J. Scott Coopwood Editor: Cindy Coopwood Managing Editor: Pam Parker Contributing Editors: Hank Burdine, Maude Schuyler Clay, Noel Workman, Roger Stolle Digital Editor: Phil Schank Graphic Designers: Sandra K. Goff, Cailee Conrad, Holly Ray Consultant: Samir Husni, Ph.D. Special Projects Coordinator: Stacye Trout Contributing Writers: Rebekkah Arant, Brenda Ware Jones, Clint Kimberling, Susan Marquez, Mary Carol Miller, Amy Morris, Aimee Robinette, Angela Rogalski, Wade S. Wineman Jr. Photography: Tom Beck, Sandi Burt, Blake Crocker, Rory Doyle, Johnny Jennings, Staci Lewis, Bill Powell Circulation: Holly Tharp Accounting Manager: Emma Jean Thompson Account Executives: Cristen Hemmins, Kristy Kitchings, Wendy Mize, Ann Nestler, Cadey True POSTMASTER: Send all address changes to Delta Magazine P.O. Box 117, Cleveland, MS 38732 ADVERTISING: For advertising information, please call (662) 843-2700 or email 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 bi-monthly 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, P.O. 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: P.O. Box 117, Cleveland, MS 38732 Shipping Address: 125 South Court Street, Cleveland, MS 38732 Phone (662) 843-2700 • Fax (662) 843-0505 deltamagazine.com E-mail: publisher@deltamagazine.com editor@deltamagazine.com Subscriptions: $28 per year 6 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

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SHOP P STARKVILLE A this holida h y season!

C CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE Sund day, y, November 18 HOL LIDA AY BAZAAR No ovember 28-29

HOPSS ST TARKVILLE ARKV VILLE FFrom stocking sstufffer er s and packages ffor or the tree to holida holiday decor and thaat special style ffor or a New Year’ Yeaar’s Eve par tyy, shop ST TARKVILLE ARKVILLE this holida holiday seaason! /mscollegettown

IG: @starkvillems

For a directory of WHE ERE TO SHOP:

starkville.org k ll

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Difficulty breathing?

Your primary care provider may want to consider a referral to Leflore Specialty Clinic if you have:

Pulmonologists specialize in diagnosing and treating conditions affecting your respiratory system. If you have any of these symptoms, ask your doctor to contact Leflore Specialty Clinic at (662) 451-7881 or fax a referral to (662) 451-7865. Our clinic is located at 102 Professional Plaza in Greenwood.

• chronic cough • difficulty breathing • recurring pneumonia

Rachael Faught, DO

• asthma • cystic fibrosis • smoking history • concern for lung cancer

Joe Pressler Jr, MD

A Lifetime of Care...visit us at GLH.org

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TOM BECK

from the editor

I had such a special time with Don and Nancy Barrett of Lexington as they shared their beautiful home, Château Thierry, with us during the celebration of its centennial Christmas.

Stealing Moments ell, here we are again. The holidays are practically upon us, and before we know it another year will be in the books. Life whizzes by so fast it’ll make your head spin, and this year has been no different. Moments together for the Coopwood family have been few and far between the past few months, and if I’ve learned anything this year, it’s that no matter how brief, time spent with family is so important. We all find ourselves saying, “When things settle down…” or “Sometime soon we should…” and then realize those opportunities have passed because things really never settle down! So as we go to press with our final issue of 2018, I plan to spend the remaining weeks of this year stealing (and treasuring) moments with family and friends when they present themselves; being thankful for what I do have, not focusing on what I don’t; and remembering the wise words of Theodore Roosevelt, “Comparison is the thief of joy.” I will consider these my end-of-year resolutions with plans to carry them into the new year.

In the spirit of enjoying time with family and friends, this issue is packed with ideas for the holiday season! Try our casual menu for gathering with friends on the porch, perfect for your Friendsgiving, which features a no-bake pumpkin dessert that is to die for, page 72.

Many Jewish families across the Delta celebrate Hanukkah this time of year; read on page 112 as they share the traditions and recipes they enjoy during the Festival of Lights. And, lastly, what’s old is new again with our retro cocktail and appetizer recipes page 118.

Incorporate them into your Christmas or New Year’s gatherings—or use them to inspire your theme all together! Equally nostalgic and hip, your guests will love this blast from the past.

This is also the time of year for family outings, and there is none better than 50 Nights of Lights in Cleveland, page 84. This fabulous display will delight young and old alike and can be added to the list of Delta must-sees during the season.

As this year is winding down, we hope you enjoy all the season has to offer: the parties, family, food, and friends. And as always we wish you a Merry Christmas and many blessings in the New Year! DM

W

Cindy Coopwood Editor @cindycoop1 cindy@deltamagazine.com

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contents Volume 16 No. 3

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER

departments

72

38

BOOKS

42

SHOPPING

52

ART

58

MUSIC

94

HOME

84

118

RORY DOYLE

132

features

64

MARILYN TRAINOR STOREY

72

FOOD & ENTERTAINING

84

From her fabrics to interiors this “Mississippi Design Maven” is inspired by a lifetime in the Delta

Friendsgiving on the Porch: Casual Fall recipes for your gathering Hanukkah recipes and traditions, page 112 Retro Cocktails and Apps for your Holiday Party, page 118

A CLEVELAND CHRISTMAS

50 Nights of Lights shines throughout the holidays

ON THE COVER: Classic martini pictured with vintage Christmas ornament and radio. Photo by Rory Doyle.

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Reviews of new releases and what Deltans are reading now

Holiday Gift Guide shopping local for your Christmas wish list

Melissa Abide Griffith: Greenville native captures color while chasing light

Barry Bays: Multi-instrumentalist shares his passion for performing and teaching

Barrett home in Lexington celebrates Centennial Christmas

HISTORY

Sinking of the Pennsylvania: Mark Twain’s connection to the lost town of Austin

in every issue 18 Letters 26 On the Road Where we’ve been, where we’re going next

30 Off the Beaten Path Roaming the Real and Rustic Delta

34 Hot Topics 138 Events A listing of events including concerts, festivals, book signings

146 Delta Seen Pages of snapshots from area fundraisers, art openings and social events

152 The Final Word

by Mary Carol Miller

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B ride d off B oaz o PRESENT PR RESENTS

Ma lia Magnoli li Briidal id l Expo E Exp Saturday, January 5, 2019 9:00am–3:00pm m The e Gin at Nesbit | 931 Nesbit Road d | Nesbit, MS 386 651

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FOR NEW W HARDWAR ARE

320 NE Madisoon Drive, Ridgeland, MS 391577 (601) 853-3294 Monn-Fri: 7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. p Sat: 8:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. p

RidgelandSpeecialtyHardware.com

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LETTERS D

MUSIC

8/20/18 1:46 PM Page 53

KELLY LOVE

Greenville native has made his mark in the music business

BY TOM SPEED

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rowing up in Greenville in the 1970s, a time she calls “the best of times,” Linda Love figures she probably first “met” her future husband Kelly by pelting him with a water balloon. Kelly was a few years her senior. They lived in the same neighborhood, where water balloon fights were a favorite pastime.

“I probably threw water balloons at him as a child and didn’t know it. I’m sure I pinged him in the head a couple of times,” she says.

Years went by until they would meet again under much better circumstances.

Kelly had grown up watching his uncle play a Fender Jaguar guitar during weekend family get-togethers. The Jaguar is a strange looking guitar with an odd shape laden with unusual switches and buttons that makes it stand out in contrast to the more well-known and sleeker looking Fender Stratocaster and Telecaster guitars.

“I was always drawn to it,” he says about the guitar. “I would watch him play B.B. King songs. He was a big B.B. King fan. I didn’t know what he was playing; I just knew it was cool. When I was around 15, I decided I wanted a guitar.”

Love worked odd jobs around Greenville to save enough to money buy one. Within weeks of finally buying a guitar, he was in a band when after a young scrawny kid named

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DELTA MAGAZINE 2018

The photography in the magazine has always been outstanding, but I wanted to brag a bit on one of your contributing photographers.

The signature style of Rory Doyle is now being recognized nationally. He has been a regular contributor to DELTA and each time, he just nails it. I saw his work on the homepage of ABC News yesterday.

I am proud of the fact he shot the two covers for Kristian Dambrino's and my cds. I save my Delta Magazines and I can see a time coming when I'll say as I thumb through the magazine, “I knew that photographer back when..”

Inevitably, Rory is bound for well deserved national and international recognition. Keep working him. He sets the bar way high with his photographs.

Fish Michie Franklin, TN

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I’ve been an avid reader of Delta Magazine since day one and I can’t tell you how excited I am the moment I open my mail box and find a new edition has arrived!

Of course one of the main articles I turn to first is your music department and it always amazes me of the many musicians who now live there in the Delta. And, I’ll add to this, that as a Delta native, I was honored you all featured me as the musician spotlight in the March/April edition. After that edition was published, you would not believe how many phone calls and emails I received from friends I have not heard from in years. All of those calls are a testament to your circulation which obviously is far and wide!

By the way, your recent feature on the Natchez band, Bishop Gunn, (who now live up here in my neck of the woods) and Kelly Love, were excellent articles.

I can’t wait until the next edition arrives!

I just wanted to write and tell you how much I enjoy seeing the Delta Seen section in your magazine. I left Mississippi when I was thirt- one years old, but I have watched my friends, the children of my friends, and their children appear on the last few pages of Delta Magazine in the Delta Seen section. Years ago, I stood in a semicircle at the Courthouse in Rosedale and listened to Rufus McKay of the Red Tops sing Danny Boy. I also received my first kiss outside the Baby Doll House and I listened to Brew Moore play saxophone, live, in New York City. What do these three items have in common? There have been stories on all of them in Delta. It's this type of devotion to the Delta and its people that although I may have been gone for over fifty years, nurtures my Delta roots firmly and deeply in the Delta gumbo. Please accept my kudos for a job well done. Enclosed is my check for the subscription for the next two years of Delta Magazine.

Mary Kamille Sevareid Alexandria, VA

THE

FALL ISSUE

Annual Outdoor & Hunting Guide

QUICK BREADS with Martha Foose HALLOW ALLOWEEN

Greg Crowe Nashville, TN

on Wheels

4 CTEOAOTWELLRNEIEGSE

Cocktail Chic

Find nostalgia in every item of the

Delta Magazine Gift Collection Call or come by our office to shop our gift collection at 125 South Court Street, Cleveland, 662.843.2700.

Like our official Delta Magazine Page We’re “buzzed” about our exclusive linen cocktail napkins, set of four for $40 18 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

Twitter @Delta_Mag

Instagram @deltamagazine

To subscribe, call (662) 843-2700 or visit deltamagazine.com

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The annual fall issue of the Delta Magazine has always been my favorite, and this year’s issue contained a brief history of Donaldson Point Hunting Club. Pictures of Mr. Leo McGee, Burt Jaeger’s family, and Dabney Gray and his father Jim in Hank Burdine’s article were an added delight.

After meeting my husband, Jack C. Webb, while he was stationed at Fort Lee, Virginia, and being an Army Brat, I was not accustomed to hunting. But, I soon came to enjoy and love the sights, sounds, and smells of Donaldson Point.

Back in the sixties, there were cabins around the large mess hall. The sound of the bell ringing in the cold and not-yetdaylight made us hustle to get on our hunting gear and join everyone for breakfast. If the dogs would be running, the talk was where the dogs would be let out and where various hunters would go.

As our family grew, our girls were always welcome and loved to hear of the day’s hunt as well as stories of the past. Riding the roads in our red Jeep, and later in our Bronco, we craned our necks to see if we could see a deer along the way, while watching the muddy roads to avoid the deep mud trenches, finally arriving at our stands.

Now the mess hall is going and grand homes have been built around the lake.

Thank you for bringing back wonderful memories from the past.

Jane Webb Webb, MS

SEND COMMENTS AND LETTERS TO editor@deltamagazine.com or Delta Magazine PO Box 117 Cleveland, MS 38732 DELTA MAGAZINE 2018

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Delta Haze

PHOTO BY RORY DOYLE

AN EARLY MORNING FOG DRIFTS OVER THIS FIELD AT THE INTERSECTION OF HIGHWAYS 8 AND 49 IN THE CENTRAL DELTA. As we near the end of autumn and the winter days become shorter, the colors of the Delta’s landscape become more muted. Our farmers look forward to this time of the year when they can enjoy a short rest before the spring arrives and they begin again with the next growing season. DM

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THE S T ORRY OF F RANKKIE VALLI & T HE FO U R SEEASONS THURSDAAYYY,, NOVEMBER 8 • 7:30 30 PM

CLEVELAND, MS | WWW WW.BOLOGNAPA C.C OM O | 662.846.4626

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ON THE ROAD

where we’ve been, where to go next

ONWARD

BENTONIA

Celebrating the region’s heritage on the edge of the Delta – JIM HENDRIX

Walk On

Old signs adorn the walls of the Onward Store. – DELTA MAGAZINE

PHOTO OPS &

CLAIBORNE COUNTY

BRAZIL

Montgomery Brown taking a walk down a gravel road on Chicago Plantation. – MELODY GOLDING

Memories abound at Lost Ball Hunting Club. – FRANK MELTON

GREENWOOD DUNCAN

Pot of Gold

A rainbow over the historic Crystal Grill, one of the Delta’s oldest and most famous eating establishments. – JOHNNY JENNINGS A 100-year-old barn in Bolivar County. – THOMAS COOPWOOD

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NEW ALBANY

CLAREMONT

Delta Trademark

Nearing the end of another cotton season in the Delta. – HAYDEN HALL The Union County courthouse. The original courthouse was destroyed by fire on October 28, 1881. This one was built in 1909. – BRUCE BARTLEY

DOCKERY

FUNKY STOPS Roaming the real and rustic Delta

YAZOO CITY

Mr. Dockery’s riding boots on display at the Dockery Service Station. – DELTA MAGAZINE The past and present unite in this mural by artist, Peyton Carlton. – JIM HENDRIX

Totally unique

CLARKSDALE

GUNNISON

Overnight accommodations at the Shack Up Inn. – REED BRANSON

The sun sets on Old River Lake in western Bolivar County. – NANCY FRANKLIN Instagram users, follow @deltamagazine and see #DMphotoops

DELTA MAGAZINE 2018

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OFF THE BEATEN PATH roaming the real and rustic Delta

TUESDAYS ON THE TERRACE & BUCK’S ONE STOP Another Night in the Delta and a Delicious Eatery in Calhoun City

BY ANGELA ROGALSKI

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ocktails, music and appetizers. The perfect ending to a long, busy weekday.

From 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. each Tuesday evening until winter break, on the 4th floor of The Alluvian Hotel, Tuesdays on the Terrace offers locals and guests alike a place where they can unwind and relax.

“The balcony overlooks downtown Greenwood and historic Howard Street, and the setting is candlelit and very beautiful at night,” says Helen Gwin, Marketing Manager for The Alluvian. “We periodically have live entertainment on the terrace and people really enjoy having something different and unique to do on a Tuesday evening.”

And with the Terrace Bites, which are appetizers and the Terrace Cocktails, Gwin says, “It’s just a really great way to enjoy something different and take in a beautiful night view of the city.”

Visit thealluvian.com for more information.

C

onvenience store with a restaurant, deli, and a bakery in the back; Buck’s One Stop in Calhoun City serves up delicious food and layered caramel cakes that people drive for miles to experience.

“We have the convenience store, gas pumps, a full deli and we serve a complete lunch six days a week, including Sunday,” says owner Kevin “Buck” Langford. “In our back, we also have a full bakery, where we bake cakes, cookies, and all kinds of homemade goodies.”

However, it’s the caramel cakes that have made it a must-visit for many people, whether they’re locals, just traveling through, or have Buck’s zeroed in on their GPS. Langford says, “You can go the Grove on most football Saturdays and find a bunch of our caramel cakes.” He adds that the cakes are so popular he has even shipped them all over the world, from Wall Street to Iraq.

Buck’s One Stop 601 North Main Extension, Calhoun City (662) 628-6822 30 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

Tuesday Night on the top floor of The Alluvian Hotel in Greenwood.

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OFF THE BEATEN PATH

roaming the real and rustic Delta

MARGARITAVILLE & JUNKYARD DOG One of the State’s New Destinations and a Unique Shopping Experience in Yazoo City

O

n your next trip to Vicksburg, be sure to visit the new Margaritaville located on the Mississippi River next to the Vicksburg Convention Center. The hotel and family entertainment center, complete with the exclusive Coral Reef Water Playground and LandShark Bar and Grill, offers guests and locals alike a great place to unwind and have family fun.

With 117 rooms and nine stories, the hotel, inspired by singer/songwriter Jimmy Buffett and his famous tune “Margaritaville,” offers a plethora of amenities from a great bar and grill to an island theme that goes perfectly with the name and the ambience of the hotel.

There is a full service lobby bar and coffee shop, which offers great views of the Mississippi River. The hotel also features a fitness center, meeting spaces, and a Margaritaville Coffee Shop. margaritavillehotelvicksburg.com

D Above, the new Margaritaville Vicksburg. Below, The Junkyard Dog Salvage Company in Yazoo City.

owntown Yazoo City has been called “one of the most ‘Instagrammable’ streets in the US.” Even amid that colorful and unique scene, The Junkyard Dog Salvage Company stands out as an exceptionally fun place to shop for unique items and “treasures.” Owner Chrissy Hood, who describes herself as “artsy and creative with an eclectic taste,” started her shop as a booth in a local retail space before moving to a family-owned building on MS-149 on the west side of Yazoo City. When the space became available on Main Street, she was excited to expand once again.

“I love finding really cool and sometimes strange items that defy classification,” Hood says. “I call our more unique items ‘oddities and curiosities’ and they may be anything from old architectural details to antique farm equipment or even some odd thing from today that catches my eye.”

You never know what you will find, but you just might find what you have always been looking for.

The Junkyard Dog Salvage Company 217 South Main Street, Yazoo City (662) 571-5842 DELTA MAGAZINE 2018

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Happy p Holiday o a s! s Downtown Cleveland, MS 32 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

(662) 843-3986

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ENGRAVABLEES

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HOT TOPICS FINDING A NEW HOME IN OLD ROOTS “County” by Lucius Lamar to Debut in December In kindergarten, Lucius Lamar painted a self-portrait holding flowers and wearing full football gear; in third grade interior designer, Sara Davidson, found him in the yard working on a plan view model of his family’s home built in 1869, fondly known as “The Gatekeeper’s Lodge,” and in 1977 his Uncle Tommy took him to New Orleans to see the King Tut Exhibit that made a lasting impression.

Then, Jere Allen invited Lamar to visit his studio in Oxford. “That’s when I realized I wanted to be a painter,” says Lamar.

Years later, he attended UCLA, where he studied with Rose Tarlow, whom he describes as “the superstar of the interior design world.”

Her then-boyfriend, Frank Gehry, kindly reviewed his work and gave advice. “I still think about those meetings with disbelief,” Lamar says. Returning to his roots in Mississippi, Lamar has changed things up since his childhood of sketching in his parent’s home. He and his husband, Kerry Hamilton, live in the artists’ community of Taylor, where Lamar has set his new collection called “County.”

“Our rural landscape inspires me,” he says. “If you stop and look long enough at our countryside, it becomes something like a symphony.

1

“There’s a rhythm to it and the shape and color are its notes.”

Seasons are felt more distinctly in the open landscape, and Lamar makes each season a special time. “I start each one with the understanding that it’s about that day and time, and I am recording things in my own way in what I see and hear.

“They all have the same hand, but each one has its own personality and song.”

An opening reception of Lamar’s works will be held on Thursday, December 13 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Southside Gallery in Oxford.

150 Courthouse Square, Oxford, 662.234.9090.

FIRST ANNUAL SCRAMBLED ART BOWL University towns host art competition in conjunction with Egg Bowl As if the Egg Bowl wasn’t enough, there’s a new perhaps more light-hearted aspect to the ancient rivalry between the University of Mississippi and Mississippi State. November 5th will kick off the first annual Scrambled Art Bowl hosted by the Yoknapatawpha Arts Council, representing Oxford against the Starkville Area Arts Council. Each Arts Council has recruited a team of eleven area artists, whose art will be featured on the walls of Uptown Coffee on North Lamar Avenue in Oxford.

“The Director of the Starkville Area Arts Council, John Bateman, challenged the Yoknapatawpha Arts Council, as both communities are cultural training grounds in Mississippi,” says Wayne Andrews, YAC Director.

The battle will continue throughout the month of November to coincide with the 2018 Egg Bowl, holding out until after Black Friday when the final score will be announced. Each sale will be considered a touchdown, and the victorious team will take home the “golden paintbrush.” Each year the Art Bowl will take

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34 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

place in the college town hosting the Egg Bowl.

Starkville Area Arts Council Director John Bateman stated, “College football and arts place our communities and state on a national playing field. We think this is an engaging way to highlight that phenomenal talent in Mississippi comes in a variety of forms.”

For more information contact Yoknapatawpha Arts Council at 662.236.6429 or oxfordarts.com or Starkville Area Arts Council at 662.324.3080 or starkvillearts.org.

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HOT TOPICS NEW ENTERTAINING BOOK BY ELIZABETH HEISKELL The Southern Living Party Cookbook: A Modern Guide to Gathering Elizabeth Heiskell, the Delta’s go-to caterer for every celebration life serves up, is at it again. With the release of her new book, The Southern Living Party Cookbook: A Modern Guide to Gathering, Heiskell, the best-selling author of What Can I Bring? and TODAY show food contributor, updates the original classic, 1972s Southern Living Party Cookbook, the top selling Southern Living cookbook of all time.

The new book combines dishes from the original book, popular recipes from Southern Living, and sure-to-become classics from Elizabeth’s own recipe box and offers a fresh lineup of party ideas and menus divided by occasion including a Bridal Tea, Garden Club Luncheon, Cocktails and Canapés, Tailgate, Fall Dinner and many more. Whether your event takes weeks to plan or is just a last minute get-together, The Southern Living Party Cookbook has menus for any occasion.

Also packed with sage advice and tips such as, “The more relaxed you are, the more fun your guests will have,” and “The people make the party. Not the food, flowers, or quality of your bathroom guest towels,” it will keep you entertained.

“This is a modern-day guide, full of entertaining tips, party inspiration, and mouthwatering recipes to help you—and hopefully a whole new generation—entertain like a pro,” Heiskell

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says. “I know I’ll turn to this book every time I’m feeling stuck or stressed out when party planning!”

Available at Square Books in Oxford, at local bookstores and amazon.com.

MALACO COMES TO THE DELTA Display features some of Mississippi’s great Blues and R&B artists Shelley Ritter, Director of the Delta Blues Museum in Clarksdale, read somewhere it was the 50th Anniversary of Malaco Records in Jackson which is often referred to as the “Last Soul Company” recording studio. So, she called and asked what they were planning for it. The studio and record company founded in 1967, planned to celebrate with a big gospel show, which is their strength today, although they represent numerous Blues and R&B artists, plus Americana singer songwriters.

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Many Malaco artists have performed through the years at the Sunflower River Blues & Gospel Festival in Clarksdale and are displayed in the permanent museum exhibits. Ritter suggested they work together to create a permanent Malaco Records exhibit for the Delta Blues Museum. After she spent time at their studio, Malaco executives drove north and saw the museum. A space was selected, and the team chose which artists to feature. At that point, the two music icons in Mississippi, Malaco Records and the Delta Blues Museum, said, “Let’s do this.” Central to the Malaco Records museum exhibit is a fifteen-minute film documenting the genesis and growth of the company.

You will hear familiar titles from Malaco artists like Jean Knight’s “Mr. Big Stuff,” Dorothy Moore’s “Misty Blue,” Z.Z. Hill’s “Down Home Blues,” and Anita Ward’s “Ring My Bell.” Also featured are national television commercials for JC Penney, GMC, Corona and Walmart showcasing music from the Malaco studio and countless major motion pictures that have the Malaco sound behind them.

Group Tour Manager and long-time presence at the museum Maie Smith says, “Our locals in the Coahoma County region and Mississippi in general need to come see the Malaco Records exhibit because it is great history about our own state. This company started and was able to record artists that normally wouldn’t get the chance to make recordings in the mainstream.”

Delta Blues Museum, open Monday through Saturday 9 a.m.-5 p.m., 1 Blues Alley, Clarksdale, 662.627.6820.

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New from University Press of Mississippi

Southern Splendor Saving Architectural Treasures of the Old South

By Marc R. Matrana, Robin S. Lattimore, and Michael W. Kitchens

Heroes, Rascals, and the Law Constitutional Encounters in Mississippi History

The Mississippi Gulf Coast

By James L. Robertson

By Timothy T. Isbell

Available at your local bookseller.

The Old Pro Turkey Hunter

By Gene Nunnery New foreword by Michael O. Giles

upress.state.ms.us | 800.737.7788

10:09 AM

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BOOKS

Buzzworthy Comments

The Line That Held Us by David Joy (Penguin Random House) Two men separately poach on another man’s land, and what follows is a fateful nightmare in The Line That Held Us by David Joy. When Darl Moody sees what he thinks is a wild hog, he shoots. Only what he kills is not a hog, but is instead a man named Carol Brewer, who happens to be the brother of broken, cruel Dwayne Brewer.

Darl calls on Calvin Hooper, his best friend, to help him bury Carol’s body, pulling him into a murderous, brutal chain of events in which Dwayne exacts violent revenge while slowly turning into a madman, having lost the only person he loves.

This Southern Noir demonstrates Joy’s masterful attention to detail.

He transports us to the gritty North Carolina mountains in the chill of autumn, guides us around the geography, acquaints us with the people, and moves us deeply as we ask ourselves important questions. (Liza Jones) French Exit by Patrick DeWitt (Harper Collins) Patrick DeWitt’s newest novel, French Exit is a ridiculous, riotous read. It is perfectly outrageous, and DeWitt is a keen mixologist of darkness, depth and comedy. But it is the comedy that stands out. The humor shines from within the droll dialogue and the extreme, though undeniably believable characters.

Frances Price is the widow of Frank Price, who was a wealthy New York attorney with a horrible reputation of defending the most corrupt corporations. Their son, Malcolm still lives with her in an arrested development. When the money runs out, they make a plan to move to a friend’s apartment in Paris.

You will commiserate with the heartbreak of these eccentric characters, but, in a perfect balance, you will laugh out loud at their freewheeling actions and absurd conversations. This novel is beyond charming. (Liza Jones)

David Joy

o Linda Sherwood Dick, Retired Principal Glen Allen, Mississippi

To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee. I have read this book many times. It encompasses friendship, compassion, hate, racism, abuse, love and acceptance. o Brucie McKamy Mintz, Retired Attorney Lake Washington, Mississippi

Patrick DeWitt

Varina by Charles Frazier (Harper Collins) Charles Frazier, the author of Cold Mountain, takes us back to the Civil War in his newest novel, Varina. This is an intelligent work of historical fiction about Varina Howell Davis, who was a teenager when she married the much older Jeff Davis. She thought she was marrying a wealthy, Mississippi landowner, but ended up as the First Lady of the Confederacy.

The narrative smartly skips around to different times in Varina’s life so we see all the variations of Varina: the fleeing fugitive during the war, the unknowing child bride, the exiled wife in London, the young bride living it up in Washington DC, the grieving mother in Richmond, the writer in New York, and the retrospective widow.

It’s the right amount of detailed imagination and factual history that makes this book fun to read. And the question beckons: what are the rightful consequences of complicity? (Liza Jones)

For the Record Books Delta Magazine fans are currently reading o Susan Scaife-Owings Michael’s Heart

by Lori Harrington

o Karen Vincent

Magpie Murders

by Anthony Horowitz

o Ronnie Warrington Earth-Sanctuary

by Christian Kallias

o Tiffanie-Clint Russell When Life Gives You LuLu Lemons

by Lauren Weisberger 38 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

o Margaret Shelton Calypso

by David Sedaris

o Judy Melton

Before We Were Yours

by Lisa Wingate

o Sherri Cleveland Huckleberry Finn

by Mark Twain

o Ruth Ann Majure Girl, Wash Your Face

by Rachel Hollis

We asked Facebook friends and Delta Magazine Fan Page Group members to list the book they have read more than once.

Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen. There are so many reasons to read this book. The romance, the social commentary and it’s hilarious! It really never gets old. o David Turner, Retired Hattiesburg, Mississippi

Rising Tide by John Barry. It is the story of the 1927 flood and it is very fascinating. o Lycia Callahan, Community Volunteer Olive Branch, Mississippi

Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis. Why have I read it more than once? Because it brings you back to “why.”

Charles Frazier

o Suzanne Smith Barnette Firefly Lane

by Kristen Hannah

o Emma Hovey

The Other Woman

by Daniel Silva

o Andrea Ramsey Roberts A Long Time Gone

by Karen White

o Shirley Shaysha Kingbury War Outside My Window

by Dea Dickinson

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Oh Hey, Tunica by Myra Withers Pitts (Self-published) Author, Myra Withers Pitts, was born and raised in Tunica. This is her first children’s book. It is a story inspired by her own childhood memories about growing up in the Mississippi Delta.

Tunica's smallest residents will love seeing and reading about all the fun and familiar places that make it such a special place to grow up. Adults will appreciate the artwork and shared memories found on each page. There is truly something for everyone in this children's book that is sure to become a classic in your heart and in your home. (Special/DM Staff) Arthur Ashe A Life, by Raymond Arsenault (Simon & Schuster) The first comprehensive, authoritative biography of American icon Arthur Ashe—the Jackie Robinson of men’s tennis—a pioneering athlete who, after breaking the color barrier, went on to become an influential civil rights activist and public intellectual.

He became the first African American to play for the US Davis Cup team in 1963, and two years later he won the NCAA singles championship. In 1968, he won both the US Amateur title and the first US Open title, rising to a number one national ranking. Turning professional in 1969, he soon became one of the world’s most successful tennis stars, winning the Australian Open in 1970 and Wimbledon in 1975. After retiring in 1980, he served four years as the US Davis Cup captain and was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 1985. In this revelatory biography, Raymond Arsenault chronicles Ashe’s rise to stardom on the court. (Special/DM Staff)

RHODES. FULBRIGHT. TRUMAN. GOLDWA WA ATER TER. COLLEGE FOOTBALL HALL OF FFAME. AME. In the past three years, Millsaps College has claimed all five with two Rhodes Scholars, four Fulbright Scholars, a T Truman ruman Scholar, a Goldwater Scholar, and a College F Foootball Hall of F Fame ame inductee. inductee WHICH ONE WILL Y YOU OU EARN?

WORLD CLASS. H HERE A ATT HOME. MILL S AP S.EDU

Valley Forge by Bob Drury & Tom Clavin (Simon & Schuster) December 1777. It is eighteen months after the signing of the Declaration of Independence, and some 12,000 members of America’s beleaguered Continental Army stagger into a small Pennsylvania encampment twenty-three miles northwest of British-occupied Philadelphia. The starving and half-naked force is reeling from a string of demoralizing defeats at the hands of King George III’s army, and are barely equipped to survive the coming winter. Their commander in chief, the focused and forceful George Washington, is at the lowest ebb of his military career. The Continental Congress is in exile and the American Revolution appears to be lost. Yet a spark remains. Determined to keep the rebel cause alive through sheer force of will, Washington transforms the farmland plateau hard by the Schuylkill River into a virtual cabin city. Together with a dedicated coterie of advisers both foreign and domestic—Marquis de Lafayette, Baron von Steuben, the impossibly young Alexander Hamilton, and John Laurens—he sets out to breathe new life into his military force. Against all odds, as the frigid and miserable months pass, they manage to turn a bobtail army of citizen soldiers into a professional fighting force that will change the world forever.

Valley Forge is the story of how that metamorphosis occurred.

(Special/DM Staff) DM DELTA MAGAZINE 2018

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100 FRONT STREET SUITE A • INDIANOLA, MS • (662) 452-5131

40 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

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Exxperienc e e Mis i sissipppi’s Prremier Chris i tmas Shop h ping Deestinatio in Where you’ll find beautiffu ul surroundings for your holiday celebrations, the perfect holiday attiree for you, and the gifts you know they’ll love.

Join us for our

Reenaiss ssancee Holid iday ay Open House Sunda ay, Nov o ember 18th, h 2pm-5pm

H OL I DAY S H OPPI NG A N D D I N I NG:

Look for our new book Florists to the Field in your local gift and bookstore.

A e ri e ■ A ll u re P l a s t i c s ■ A l t a r ’d S t a t e ■ A l t e r a t i o n s b y Ta i l o r K i m ■ A me ri c a n E a g l e ■ A me ri t r ad e ■ A n g i e’s ■ A n n Ta y l o r LO F T ■ A no t he r B r o ke n Eg g C a f é ■ A n t hon y V i nc e’ Na i l S a l on ■ A n t hr o p o lo gi e T h e A p p l e St o r e ■ A q u a t h e D ay S p a ■ B a n k Pl u s ■ B a r n e s & N o b le B o o k s e l ler s ■ Ba r n et t e’s Sal o n ■ B el l a C h e s S p e c i al t y G i f t s ■ B i ag g i’s R i s t or a n t e I t a l i a no ■ B ro o k s B rot h e r s ■ C S p i r e W i r e le s s ■ C h a r m i n g C h a r l ie ■ C h ic o’s ■ F i v e G u y s B u r g e r s a n d F r i e s ■ F ra n c esc a’s C o l l e c t i o n ■ F r e e Pe o p l e ■ Th e F r e sh M a r ke t ■ G i f t s b y K PE P ■ G i ng e r s n a ps ■ G N C ■ A m y ’s H al lm a r k T he H e ad ac he C e n t e r ■ H i g h l a n d P a r k ■ T h e H y a t t P l a c e H o t e l I ns i d e - O u t ■ J . C r e w ■ J . J i l l ■ J o l l y O r t h o d o n t i c s ■ Ju s ti c e f o r G i r l s ■ K e n d a l l Po o l e E v e n t P l a n n i n g ■ Ko e s t l e r P ri me L e e M i c h a e l s F i n e J e w e l r y ■ L i b by St o r y ■ T h e L i t t l e Gy m T h e L i t t l e V i l l a g e C h i l d r e n ’s B o u t i q u e ■ L o c a l 4 6 3 U r b a n K i t c he n ■ L’O c c i t a n e E n P r o v e n c e ■ Lu c k y Br a n d J e a ns Ma t e ri a l G i rl s ■ M i nd f u l T he r a p y ■ O l d e Ty m e C o m m i s s a r y T h e O r v i s C o. ■ O s w e g o J e w e l e r s ■ P a nd or a ■ P a ne r a B r e ad P. F. C h a n g ’s C h i n a B i s t r o ■ R e d S q u a r e C l o t h i n g C o.

R egu s ■ R e su l t s P h y s i o t he r a p y ■ R i d g e l a nd V i s i t or s C e n t e r S a n d D o l l a r L i f e s t y l e s ■ S e a f o o d R ’e v o l u t i o n ■ S e p hor a Sle e p S t o r e b y Mi s ke l l y ■ S m o o t h i e K i n g ■ S o f t S u r r o u nd i ng s S o l s t i c e S u n gl a s s B ou t i q u e ■ S o ma I n t i ma t e s ■ S t a r b u c k s C o f f e e S h o p ■ Ta l b o t s ■ Tr a di ti o n a l J e w e ler s ■ V in t a g e W in e M a r ke t ■ W h i t e H o u s e| e Bl ac k Ma r ke t ■ W i l l i a m s - S onom a

FI N D US ON FACEBOOK

gardendistrictmemphis.com

I-55 at Old A gency Road, R idgeland, Mississippi | 601.519.0900 See a ll our retail stores and restaurants online at w w w.Renaissance AtColonyPark.com For lea easing informatiion, contact The Matti tiace Company at 6001.3552.1818

5040 Sanderlin Avenue Suite 109 Memphis, TN 38117 901-761-3277 DELTA MAGAZINE 2018

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❄

Festive cocktail shaker, Flower Bouquet Interiors, Clarksdale

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J Julep Mississippi ornament, Mississippi Gift Company, Greenwood

holiday

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Caramel sauce, Nandy’s Candy, Jackson

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

gift guide

From hostess gifts to holiday happys to custom-made jewelry to handmade confections. SHOP LOCAL and check everyone off your list.

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Cotton boll cookie cutter, West Tinworks, etsy.com

A must-have for your favorite cocktail fanatic.

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Woodford reserve bourbon cherries, Delta Meat Market, Cleveland

Assorted Gail Pittman Christmas gift tin, Mississippi Cheese Straw Factory, Available at gift and gourmet stores

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Alixx scented Christmas candles, Mod and Proper, Cleveland

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Acrylic tabletop float frame, Cypress Design, Greenville

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Viski ice spheres, Magpie Gift & Art, Clarksdale

I heart santa pillow, Mississippi Gift Company, Greenwood

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Rose-gold bracelet flask, McCall & Company, Greenville

es, lifts animal Cleans multiple surfac Perfect for ial. ob hair, and is antimicr ur list! yo on eak -fr the clean

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Maison de Papier Advent Calendar, Lagniappe, Greenville

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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

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Silicon dish scrubber, Viking Retail Store, Greenwood

Measuring cups with modern gold finish, Yazoo Drug Co., Yazoo City

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Sugarfina candies, Rosson Co., Cleveland

Winton and Waits bath products, Mod and Proper, Cleveland

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Amika travel flat-iron, Hair Tenders, Greenville DELTA MAGAZINE 2018

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Handmade in Lumberton, Mississippi

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

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Hello handsome trinket catchall, Cypress Design Studio, Greenville

❄ Jack Daniels Winter Jack Tennessee Cider, Chillie's Package Store, Greenville

❄

Cotton Boll and Lucky Duck socks

by Properly Tied, Nellie Mayes, Clarksdale

Recatto custom knives, Rosson Co., Cleveland

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W. Kleinberg pasiley patterned belt, The Rogue, Jackson

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Easel included!

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Maison de Papier Hunt Calendar, Lagniappe, Greenville

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Decorative box with gold-leaf antler, Midtown Gifts and Gatherings, Greenville

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Trask suede lace-ups, Hinton and Hinton, Oxford

Shotgun shell cufflinks by Johnathon Wachtel, The Rogue Jackson

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❄ ❄

Super soft pink popcorn cardigan, Ten Twenty Four, Cleveland

Olive green reversible nylon/fur vest, Gilbows, Cleveland

Camo crossbody

by Think Royln, Forty Four Fifty, Jackson

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

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Black studded-heel booties, Kutworks Boutique, Cleveland

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Festive striped camisole by Miu Miu, H Squared, Cleveland

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Women’s fur poncho, Gilbows, Cleveland

46 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

Cashmere oversized sweater and star scarf, The Wishing Well, Cleveland

Matisse metallic wedges, Lulu’s, Oxford

Spanx faux-leather legging, H Squared, Cleveland

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❄ Stunning in copper!

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Soldered crystal necklace, Elleadorn Designs, Instagram @elleadorndesigns

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Matte gold hoops studded with rhinestones, Forty Four Fifty, Jackson

Burgundy silk and chiffon tassel earrings with matte gold, Love Blue Designs, Instagram @love_blue_designs

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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

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Gold tulip necklace, Cypress Design Studio, Greenville

Snakeskin cuff with gold accents, Lavender Lane, Indianola

Custom-made, cultured pearl, gold and silver monogrammed bracelet, Lynbar Jewelers, Greenwood

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Pear-cut sapphire and diamond necklace in 18K white gold, Lee Michaels, Renaissance at Colony Park

Dainty layered and beaded necklaces, Memorie and Co., Instagram @memorieandcompany

Dangling tourmaline crystal earrings,

by Kelly Quick, JOVIALart.com

Shell pave earrings, Rosson Co., Cleveland

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Zodiac cuff bracelets, Emery Lee Boutique, Greenville DELTA MAGAZINE 2018

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❄

Green and Pink Camouflage Mini Boom Boxes, Pumpkin Patch, Cleveland

With a zipper compartment for hidden treasures

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

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Tunica’s smallest residence we love reading this!

❄ ❄

Oh Hey, Tunica

by Myra Withers Pitts, heytunica.com

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Soft Piñata toy, McCall & Company, Greenville

Chocolate Rudolph Red-nosed Reindeer, Nandy’s Candy, Jackson

Can tote up to twelve canned drin ks plus ice

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Katie London jewelry pouch, Rosson Co., Cleveland

Fuzzy unicorn slippers, McCall & Company, Greenville

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IceMule cooler, Magpie Gift & Art, Clarksdale

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Girls fur vest, Young Ideas, Indianola

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)\GPYWMZIP] EX

6XSHULRU 6HUYLFH 3KDUPDF\ )LQH $SSDUHO -HZHOU\ +RPH 'HFRU *LIWV

( 6WUHHW <D]RR &LW\ 06 WK

DELTA MAGAZINE 2018

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Stan Spealman

662-887-4700

50 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

Indianola, MS

Keith Spealman

662-207-2298

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Share your Bulldog spirit this holiday season.

Enjoy beautiful pictures of familiar campus scenes that bring back special memories of your time at Mississippi State.

The official State calendar has become a Bulldog tradition. With pictures by MSU’s own awardwinning photographers, it’s truly a one-of-a-kind treasure. Order online today at msufoundation.com or call 662-325-7000.

Send friends and family exclusive MSU holiday cards featuring original illustrations by MSU alumni. Purchase yours online at msufoundation.com.

MSU is an AA/EEO university.

5:17 PM

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ART

MELISSA ABIDE GRIFFITH This Greenville native’s surreal art captures color while chasing light

PHOTOS COURTESY OF MELISSA ABIDE GRIFFITH

BY SUSAN MARQUEZ

52 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

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elissa “Missy” Abide Griffith is entering a new phase of her life; in turn her art has taken on a softer, more ethereal look. “I’m 51,” she says. “I’m an empty nester. I guess my life is more calm and serene now, and my art reflects that.” Griffith says she can see her life’s journey in her art. “I once painted in very vibrant colors. My painting now reflects where I am emotionally and spiritually. It’s more soothing and calm.”

M

Griffith grew up in Greenville, and while she has always been creative, she began actively painting at eighteen years of age. “I went to LSU and wanted to major in art, but my father didn’t want me to be a starving artist,” she laughs. “So I majored in European history. I studied the Enlightenment and the Reformation, and art is really a big part of that. In studying history, I saw how beautiful, light-filled art evolved into darker art, which is something I paid attention to.”

During college, Griffith always painted for her own enjoyment.

“I’m self-taught. I took a few classes along the way, but mostly I have always thought in terms of what I can do to portray something the way I see it.”

While her art is influenced today by her childhood in Greenville, she didn’t realize what a visually rich place it was until she started painting. “All my work includes a horizon line. There’s something about that big, open Delta sky that opens and yawns.

Growing up in the Delta definitely affected my art work. I went back to where it all started and took pictures and started painting.”

After college Griffith was a flight attendant for American Airlines for five years, with her home base in Chicago. She met her husband, David, there, and the couple married and lived in Chicago for

twenty-six years. The couple has three sons, all born and raised in Chicago. Oldest son Jack, works in commercial real estate in Chicago; Simon serves in the Navy, and

Griffith uses thin layers of water-based paints to evoke the gauzy look of the South in her paintings.

Andrew is a redshirted freshman on the Ole Miss football team. Needless to say, at this time in her life, weekends are reserved for Ole Miss games.

Raising three boys and trying to paint was sometimes a challenge for Griffith. “I used to try to paint in my basement when the boys were young, but when I went down to paint, my boys would want to paint too, so it often turned into an art lesson for them.” Griffith put down her brush for the most part while the boys were growing up. They were active in sports and other pursuits, which kept her busy as well. Once she started painting again seriously, one of her three brothers told her she should put her paintings in the furniture store they owned in Springdale, Arkansas. “They sold immediately,” recalls Griffith, “and that was the springboard I needed to get me going into the serious pursuit of art.”

Two years ago Griffith and her husband moved to Bentonville, Arkansas, where she set up a studio behind the garage. “This is a great place to live and to paint,” she says. “It’s like living in a large city because it has all the amenities.” They live in walking distance of

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the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, which Griffith says is very inspiring.

“The grounds around the museum are beautiful. I love walking there.”

Griffith paints with water-based paint in lots of thin layers. “I used to paint in oils, and I’ll probably get back to that one day, but for right now, I like what I’m doing. Some of my work is drippy with a surreal quality. I want to capture that gauzy look of the South, where the air is thick with humidity.” A resin coating gives the work a shiny look, as if the images she’s painted are captured for eternity.

While the images are timeless, the work is fresh and modern. “A camera simply can’t capture all the subtle colors in nature. I like to bring those colors to the forefront.

All of my work is inspired by nature. I 54 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

guess deep down I’m a free-spirited, boho chic nature girl!”

Inspired by the work of French artist Henri Matisse, Griffith says she loves the simple lines of his work. “I went to see an exhibition of Matisse’s work when I first moved to Chicago. His work is really very simplistic, as is mine, but my work is nothing like his. He could make a statement with a squiggle of a line, and that’s what I try to do. As an artist, I’m constantly chasing the light, and that influences my work.” Griffith says she is also inspired by many of the artists she follows on Instagram. “It’s amazing that a large number of them are from Australia. There must be something special going on over there!”

Word about Griffith’s work has spread among designers around the South. She

posts work on her social media platforms and on her website, which has given her business a big boost. She recently finished a large consignment for a Nashville penthouse. “I did three pieces for that space.”

Griffith is thankful to be able to have an income from doing something she loves so much. “Sometimes I feel like I should pinch myself. It’s so gratifying for me to know that people like what I do. What was once something I did for my own enjoyment has become a business that I could never have dreamed on my own. It has grown organically, thanks to social media and word of mouth, and right now the sky’s the limit.”

DM melissaabidegriffithart.com @melissaabidegriffithart

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HEALTH H HCARE FOR W F WOMEN

BY W WOMEN

601.936.1400 / 1.800.273.6716 The Suitess at River Oaks / 1020 River Oaks Drive / Suite 320 20 / Jackson, MS 39232

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MUSIC

BARRY BAYS

Multi-instrumentalist, session musician, Delta Music Institute instructor

BY CLINT KIMBERLING

I

f you have been to a blues festival, juke joint, or listened to live music anywhere in the Mississippi Delta within the last twenty-five years, there is a decent chance you’ve seen Barry Bays play the bass guitar. Bays has been a

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mainstay on the Delta music scene as a freelance bass player for the last three decades. He boasts a rather impressive resume of musicians he’s played and recorded with that goes on for days. It would probably be easier, and shorter, to come up with a list of musicians Bays has not yet played with.

Bays is a native of Grenada and moved to Cleveland to attend Delta State. He has made Cleveland his home for over thirty years now. Bays says, “I thought that I would leave Mississippi at some point to pursue my music, but as I got older I didn’t feel like I had to. And when I began traveling and playing overseas, people would freak out when I said I was from Mississippi. It was eye opening to see how the world views the music from the state. They treat our music with such reverence.”

Like so many southern artists, Bays found his musical footing in the church. He rang handbells in the choir and played trumpet. He also comes from a musical family and says some of his earliest memories are of his grandmother playing the piano and organ. His grandmother played regularly at The Monte Cristo restaurant in Grenada and Bays recalls seeing people put money in her tip jar. “I just thought it was so cool that you could get paid to play music,” he says.

58 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

Bays performing with long-time Ted Nugent singer, Derek St. Holmes. During his career, Bays has played with many platinum record-selling and Grammy award winning artists.

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Rehearsing with B4Y2K, one of the Delta Music Institute bands Bays oversees.

Performing with Grammy winner, Bobby Rush.

Bays recording with the late Shawn Lane, who was considered one of the world’s best guitarists.

Bays with Roger Fisher, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee and founding member and guitarist of the rock band, Heart; W. S. Holland, drummer for Johnny Cash and Elvis Presley; and guitarist Ron Haney.

60 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

Top, with artist Amy Grant.

Bottom, Bays in Norway with Mick Fleetwood founder of the rock band, Fleetwood Mac.

Bays continued to play the trumpet and earned a scholarship to Delta State, eventually receiving a degree in classical music. According to him, the plan was always to be a professional musician. “There was no back up plan, I never thought about doing anything else.”

While he was in college, Bays joined a band playing his trumpet.

But after watching the guitar players in his band, he decided that was the instrument he’d rather be playing. So, he taught himself how to play the guitar. “It was more fun than trumpet, and I started making money right away.”

In fact, he didn’t learn bass guitar until his late twenties. It was at that time he began moving away from playing with cover bands and started collaborating with original artists which he really preferred.

Today, Bays is the premier bass player in the Delta and he estimates that he plays with about twenty different artists on a rotating basis.

It’s a schedule that keeps him busy, but that’s the way he prefers it.

He tells me that he hasn’t watched TV in over fifteen years. And as far as current events and sports go, he’s out of the loop. “I don’t do anything but music. I don’t play golf. I don’t hunt. I only play music and I love it that way,” he says.

His talent on the bass guitar has taken Bays all over the world and he’s played with word class musicians. Bays could go on for hours listing musicians, festivals he’s played, cities he’s toured in, and upcoming gigs. The names continue to pour out of him and include luminaries like Derek St. Holmes from Ted Nugent’s band, Roger Fisher from Heart, Steve Azar, Jeff Healy, and Bobby Rush to name a few. At the top of his list of performers he’s worked with is Shawn Lane. Bays has high respect for Lane and calls him one of the greatest musicians ever, and began recording and playing with him in the late eighties and he played bass on his album Powers of 10.

Bays also toured and recorded extensively with Warner Brothers album Powers of Ten, and two videos. Clarksdale resident, John Mohead. Bays toured with Mohead all over the world and includes their trips through Colorado ski towns as some of his best memories from the road. Just recently they played at FedEx Forum in front of thousands.

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Bays performing with his good friend, the late Hubert Sumlin. Sumlin was an influence to many prominent guitarists such as Jimmy Page of the rock band Led Zeppelin, Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck and others. Upon his death, Mick Jagger and Keith Richards of The Rolling Stones, paid for Sumlin’s funeral expenses. He was an icon in the music world.

Red Square, Moscow, Russia on a teaching/performance trip with fellow instructors from the Delta Music Institute, Miles Fulwider, Tricia Walker, and Charly Abraham.

Playing in Cognac, France with Big George Brock.

Blue Mother Tupelo, a group out of Nashville, is one of Bays’ steady gigs. But he doesn’t get a chance to rehearse with them very often. It’s not uncommon for the band to toss out a new song on stage that Bays has not rehearsed. This is not a problem for Bays who has excellent pitch and deep understanding of music theory. “I can usually tell where it’s going. It may sound like magic, but I’ve been doing it my whole life.”

Bays does have a day job that not only keeps him busy but, and probably more importantly, holding a guitar all day. He is a professor of music at Delta State University and has just begun his 30th year of teaching this fall. Bays teaches in the Delta Music Institute which gives students a foundational base of knowledge for working in various entertainment industry careers.

From this position he imparts his vast knowledge of being a professional musician to students who are interested in careers in the entertainment sector. “I feel lucky to teach and share what I’ve learned over the years. And it’s nice to share current info with students. I can even pass down experiences and lessons I picked up over the past weekend or summer.”

Between his class schedule which includes teaching three studentled commercial bands, guitar lessons, and preparing for upcoming gigs, Bays is surrounded by music. Only half-jokingly he says, “If I’m not eating, I’m holding a guitar.”

And he doesn’t have any plans to slow down or change his schedule.

He says at some point in the future he may have to start carrying a chair on stage. But for now, he’s content. “I love playing, traveling, seeing different parts of the country, and making new friends.” As long as I can handle it, I’ll keep playing with bands. Last time I checked there’s no age limit on Jazz, Blues and Americana music.” DM

Rocking the FedEx Forum in Memphis with Alice Hasen, John Mohead and Tommy Hubbard.

Bays performing with Richard Johnston in Telluride, Colorado.

Each year, Bays plays at the Buford Family Christmas concert at The Alluvian Hotel.

Bays with Jonathan Cain from the rock band, Journey.

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Marilyn Trainor Storey From fabrics to interiors, this “Mississippi Design Maven” is inspired by a lifetime of Delta living

BY AMY MORRIS 64 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

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arilyn Trainor Storey’s design studio on Delta Avenue in Clarksdale exudes joy and vibrancy. Emerald green permeates her studio, though every color imaginable is on display in the fabrics, furnishings, paintings, and much more. Marilyn, much like her studio, is genuine, warm, and inviting, everything that is symbolic of the Delta.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF MARILYN TRAINER STOREY

M

Perhaps no one admires the Delta more than the self-dubbed Mississippi design maven. Marilyn has a profound understanding of the uniqueness of the Delta and uses her knowledge to create designs that capture the exclusive elements that define this region.

She describes the Delta as “welcoming, literary, storied, quirky, fresh, unconventional, zany, authentic, always surprising, and sometimes a little off the wall.”

A childhood spent in this most vivid of places deeply impacted Marilyn both personally and professionally. Growing up on the Coldwater River between Lambert and Marks, she was immersed in the natural surroundings that have always directly influenced her designs; she often draws upon these experiences in the Delta when creating, whether she is decorating an entire room or creating fabric for custom throw pillows.

Green is Marilyn’s favorite color, and in all of its shades, it’s reminiscent of her beloved Mississippi Delta. She recalls being a small child, standing in the middle of the seat riding with her daddy, a Delta farmer, surveying the crops. She says she began her love affair with green as a child, noting the differences between the shade of leaves on cotton and soybeans. She says, “I think my love of greens is directly traceable to riding with Daddy. He always described the dusty green of cotton as the color of money.”

Fabric is the designer’s favorite medium. As a small child, she anxiously waited on the steps of the Lambert fabric store for her aunt to unlock the doors so she could go in and explore.

The colors, patterns, and textures of the fabrics captivated her even then. She has painted on fabrics to create original designs for clients, but presently she creates custom fabrics by painting

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would recite poetry to her as a child, point out specific bird species or stenciling her designs and then sending them to a mill where in their yard, and share her love of trees and nature with her. they are printed.

Marilyn’s mind is one that works on pairing opposing themes and One of Marilyn’s most exquisite custom fabrics, and one she elements that seem impossible, but those opposites considers her favorite, is primarily emerald work together beautifully when she designs a green in color with designs resembling belt fabric, room, or an entire home. buckles sitting symmetrically on either side of She loves to mix the formal with the informal, a triangular white, gold, and silver pattern. the earthy with the elegant, and the trendy with She explains that she recalls her daddy the historical. A holiday table decorated by referring to Clarksdale as the “golden buckle Marilyn may contain a mismatched place setting of the cotton belt,” and she designed this of fine and everyday china, a metallic placemat fabric with that story in mind. She remembers beneath it, and elegant antique glassware. Her art farmers wearing gold monogrammed belt is anything but monochromatic or “matchy buckles when she was a child, and her daddy matchy,” as she says. She may juxtapose a sleek, was no exception. Marilyn’s dad passed away white, modern sofa and oversized gold leaf urns several years ago, and she has his belt buckle, Marilyn’s favorite fabic, Golden Buckle with a casual lawn chair brought inside. She which she wears as a necklace.

Marilyn’s childhood was also the foundation for her desire to incorporates outdoor items to give an earthy, authentic flare to her juxtapose elements in her creations, and it is now a trademark that designs. she carries through all of her designs. She grew up in the presence Clients who desire sophisticated, unique, earthy, yet elegant of her mother and nanny, traditional elegant Southern ladies, but designs best appreciate Marilyn’s work. She uses the unusual with she also ran free in the pecan orchard and fields near her home. the usual to define her unique style, which is rife with color, Delta Marilyn’s grandmother, known as Nanny, was one of the themes, and individuality based on her unique vision and the tremendous influences on her life’s work as a designer. Her nanny desires of her clients. When decorating a home, Marilyn will take

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The green velvet couch was her fathers and is accented with several pillows in Marilyn's fabrics. “I nearly always use velvet on sofas unless the client objects because it is the most durable fabric.”

Emerald green sueded chair with pillows made in Marilyn’s French Garden and Queen Bee fabrics.

Christmas tree done in golds and greens in keeping with the theme of a Delta Green Christmas.

Authentic reindeer skin, and pillows made in Marilyn’s String Bean, Pearl Girl and Gilded Scallop fabrics adorn couch.

Full blown cotton bolls are visible in the Grassy Fields fabric used on this wing chair.

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Marilyn’s studio is filled with natural, earthy elements and many touches showing her love of Greek and Roman mythology through accessories and art.

random objects and tweak a design or create something completely new. She likes to use things in her clients’ homes that have special meaning for them and wants them to feel enveloped by their surroundings and love being in the space she has designed. No matter the project, her designs are a piece of a story that she associates with life in the Delta, and she uses her story to help clients create their own stories in the design of their homes.

While Marilyn has always been interested in art and design, her journey into the world of design was not direct. She did not receive any formal training or education in design or art but rather earned a bachelor’s degree in business at the University of North Carolina. She worked as a marketing and sales director of an accounting and human resources software company after she completed college. After her sons were born, she was a stay-at-home mom who became involved with a designing project at her oldest son’s school, where friends encouraged her to start designing for others.

She has now been designing for over twenty years. Marilyn is a multitalented artist whose skills include designing homes, creating custom fabrics, organizing large events like festivals in Clarksdale and Helena, writing, and gold leafing. Her custom fabrics now include over four hundred designs, and she is currently supervising

the construction of home designs in Oxford and many other Southern regions as far away as North Carolina and Virginia.

Marilyn will be featured in Patricia Hart McMillan’s 2018 book Christmas By Design, where she is showcasing her “Green Delta Christmas.” One of her tremendous accomplishments was her commission to gold leaf the cross and orb, using 24 karat gold, on top of St. Dominic’s Hospital Chapel in Jackson in a style that resembles churches in Italy.

Marilyn has many plans for the future, but one thing is certain, each project will be a cherished piece of a story about life in the Delta. She plans to continue her passion for interior decorating while also designing fabrics that will be available to select designers throughout the country, opening a small boutique hotel in Helena, The Allin House Hotel, and writing a book about her art as it relates to her life in the Delta.

In addition to her career as a designer, Marilyn shares her knowledge with youth in the Delta who are interested in using their creative skills to pursue artistic careers, particularly those who do not otherwise have the opportunity to develop those skills.

Through her mentoring efforts, Marilyn is shaping many other Delta stories and helping to give those stories a voice.DM

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Gather with Friends A casual Fall menu to welcome the season or host a Friendsgiving

T

BY CINDY COOPWOOD AND CORDELIA CAPPS • PHOTOGRAPHY BY RORY DOYLE

he short time before the holiday rush when the temperature has finally dropped and the mosquitoes have subsided is the ideal time to host one last dinner with friends on the porch.

We’ve come up with a menu that features seasonal produce in the form of a winter pear salad with Parmesan and radishes, spicy sauteed mixed greens, crispy baby potatoes and pumpkin cornbread. Collectively, these recipes would serve well as a casual Friendsgiving menu, and each on its own would fit beautifully into your traditional Thanksgiving menu. In case of chilly temps, plenty of wine, a few blankets on hand and the warmth of friendship will keep your guests toasty and happy. – CC

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Keep your table casual using what’s on hand for decor. We used end-of-season dried hydrangeas and other clippings from the yard, gourds and candlelight for a cozy setting.

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PUMPKIN CORNBREAD We divided this moist, slightly sweet cornbread into two smaller skillets for either end of the table. It’s best served hot out of the oven and slathered in butter.

2 2 1½ 1 1 8 1 1½

cups all-purpose flour cups yellow cornmeal tablespoons baking powder teaspoon salt cup milk ounces cream cheese, at room temp can pumpkin puree sticks butter, melted and divided extra butter for serving

Place a 12-inch cast-iron skillet in oven and heat oven to 400 degrees.

In a large bowl, combine flour, cornmeal, baking powder and salt.

Whisk the milk, cream cheese, pumpkin, and 7 tablespoons melted butter together in a smaller bowl and add to the dry mixture stirring until just combined.

Remove skillet from oven and brush bottom and sides with 2 additional tablespoons butter.

Pour batter into hot pan. Bake, 25 to 30 minutes until done and slightly brown.

Brush remaining butter (and more if desired) over the top while hot.

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CLASSIC ROASTED CHICKEN We roasted two to be sure there were plenty of leftovers for sandwiches, salads or soups.

1 3½ to 4 pound whole chicken, thawed and patted dry 2 tablespoons unsalted butter ½ teaspoon salt

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Lightly oil a roasting pan or coat with cooking spray. Rinse chicken and pat dry. Place chicken, breast side up in pan and rub with butter. Sprinkle generously with salt and pepper inside and out. Stuff cavity with lemon and rosemary stems. Truss chicken if desired, by tucking wings under and tying legs together with kitchen

¼ teaspoon pepper ½ lemon Handful of fresh rosemary stems, and extra for presentation

string. This helps the chicken maintain it’s shape.

Bake for approximately an hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes or until the juices run clear. Remove from oven and transfer chicken to a platter. Tent with foil until ready to serve.

Remove lemon and cooked rosemary from cavity and replace with fresh sprigs of rosemary for a fragrant pop of color.

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⤴

SPICY SKILLET TURNIP GREENS A more modern take on a traditional fall side dish. You’ll also want to remember this one on New Year’s Day!

OPTIONAL: Make a sauce with the reserved juices, fat and brown bits from pan. Simply pour into pan; then place on stove over high heat. A little water or extra chicken broth may be added if needed. Bring to a boil and cook for 3 to 5 minutes until reduced by half, then adjust seasoning. Drizzle sauce over individual pieces.

1 1 1 ¼

tablespoon olive oil medium onion rough chopped pound mixed turnip and mustard greens cleaned and chopped cup water pinch brown sugar several shakes of hot sauce, or to taste salt and pepper to taste

Drizzle olive oil into skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until just tender, about 3 minutes. Then add ½ of greens.

Allow to cook down and add the remainder of the greens. Add water, brown sugar and hot sauce if desired. Continue to cook several minutes until greens soften, allowing water to cook out.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

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WINTER PEAR SLAW WITH CABBAGE AND RADISHES This crunchy and tangy slaw combines some of the best flavors of fall. ⅓ 3 1 2 ¼ 4 1½ 1½ 1½ ⅓

cup sunflower seeds plus 2 tablespoons tablespoons fresh lemon juice tablespoon Dijon mustard teaspoons honey cup olive oil cups thinly sliced green cabbage cups pear chopped into matchsticks cups celery chopped into matchsticks cups sliced radishes cup Parmesan cheese, shaved, divided

Whisk ⅓ cup sunflower seeds, lemon juice, mustard, honey, and olive oil in a medium bowl; season dressing with salt and pepper.

Combine cabbage, chopped pear, celery and radishes, most of the Parmesan, and remaining sunflower seeds in a large bowl.

Drizzle dressing over top and toss to combine; season with salt and pepper. Top with remaining Parmesan shavings.

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CRISP SMASHED POTATOES Salty, crispy, delicious. The perfect side for any occasion.

1¼ pounds tiny potatoes (1 to 2 inches) ⅓ olive oil sea salt black pepper ¼ cup chopped fresh herbs

Boil potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender, 10 to 15 minutes.

Remove the potatoes from water and let them cool slightly. Using the bottom of a cup or the back of a spoon, smash the potatoes until they’re flattened into a disc, but not so much that they break apart.

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add potatoes in a single layer being sure not to crowd them. Work in batches, if needed. Season with salt and black pepper. Cook until both sides are browned and very crispy, about 5 minutes per side.

Transfer potatoes to a serving bowl or platter. Sprinkle with additional salt and fresh herbs.

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INDIVIDUAL PUMPKIN CHEESECAKE TRIFLES A no-bake dessert is as easy as it is beautiful.

To make it even more convenient it may be layered in a regular trifle bowl for serving.

8 ½ 1 1½ 1 2 4 2½ 1½

Holiday IN THE DELTA

G I F T C A R D S AVA I L A B L E

ounces cream cheese, softened cup packed brown sugar 15 ounce can pumpkin teaspoons vanilla extract teaspoon pumpkin pie spice cups heavy cream, cold tablespoons granulated sugar cups crumbled gingersnap cookies cups chopped candied pecans

Beat softened cream cheese on medium speed until fluffy. Beat in brown sugar until smooth. Add pumpkin, vanilla and pumpkin pie spice. Mix well, scraping sides of bowl as needed; set aside. In separate bowl, beat cream on medium high speed to the soft peak stage. Gradually beat in 4 tablespoons granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.

In medium bowl, combine crumbled cookies and chopped nuts; divide half of mixture among 8 parfait glasses. Divide half of pumpkin mixture among glasses, followed by half of whipped cream. Repeat layering the cookies, pumpkin and whipped cream. Cover and refrigerate at least 3 hours or up to 1 day.

When ready to serve trifles, sprinkle with remaining cookie/nut mixture.

Editor’s tip:

⤴

“Extra Creamy” Cool Whip works very nicely in a pinch!

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A Cleveland Christmas 50 NIGHTS OF LIGHTS

Downtown sparkles during the holiday season

BY AIMEE ROBINETTE • PHOTOGRAPHY BY RORY DOYLE

Carolers in downtown Cleveland near the old Grover Hotel.

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The twenty-two-foot Nutcracker donated by the late Lucy Janoush.

Animated Jack-in-the-Box.

T

he Christmas season provides many traditions that Deltans hold dear.

Many families can’t imagine the holidays without their annual trip to see Christmas on Deer Creek in Leland with the lit-up floats adorning the waterway that runs through town, followed by dinner at Lillo’s Restaurant. Or a drive along Indian Bayou in Indianola to see the floating lights. Or the rainbow of colored lights in downtown Yazoo City. Most towns have had Christmas parades that go back decades. But last year one Delta town seriously took it up a notch, creating what is sure to become another annual tradition for families across the Delta.

Cleveland’s 50 Nights of Lights is truly something to see.

Many years ago, the city began to host Holiday Open Houses like many small towns. Cleveland’s Christmas traditions truly got their start under the careful and creative eyes of three town matriarchs, Jane Dunlap and the late Clemmie Collins and Jo Beth Janoush.

86 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

“These ladies started a holiday tradition downtown and encouraged business owners to put white lights in their windows and had white light trees installed on the green strip.

They called it ‘Light Up Your Holidays,’” says Cleveland’s first lady, Becky Nowell.

“Then in 2016, the Janoush family donated

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Whimsical train and depot.

Sparkling trees of white lights line the walking trail leading to the beautiful fifty-foot Poinsettia Wreath.

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Animated dancing Santa.

Santa playing the piano under the moonlight.

the beautiful forty foot tree downtown and several other lighted displays, which included several musical instruments, the animated jack-in-the-box, and Santa playing the piano.”

Cleveland’s first tree-lighting ceremony was held downtown that year. “We went downtown for the event and expected to see maybe fifty to seventy-five people there. We were wrong. There were several hundred people downtown, and there was so much excitement in the air that night,” says Becky.

After seeing the town’s response over the new decorations, Becky began thinking about 88 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

how to build on what the Janoush family had started.

Nowell’s vision was to make Cleveland a destination for people in the Delta and surrounding areas to visit during the holiday season. Her plan was to add more lights and decorations, extending the display down the entire length of the city’s downtown and walking track which flank the old railroad.

She notes, “Cleveland has the perfect set up for people to be able to drive through downtown on Cotton Row to the south end of the green strip, then to College Street, and back up Sharpe Avenue to Highway 8.”

After a meeting with the chamber of commerce to discuss her idea and vision for the project, a committee of community volunteers and business owners was formed.

“We began meeting regularly, and it took us a couple of months to develop a plan for adding lights and decorations downtown.

We agreed that we wanted to continue with the musical theme that the Janoush family started, which fits with Cleveland having a Grammy Museum and the Delta Music Institute (DMI) at Delta State,” Nowell said.

There is also block with a Candyland theme and one with a train theme. We also determined white lights would adorn the crepe myrtles downtown.

“The committee selected displays that we thought would fit the themes. Then local businesses, individuals, and civic clubs were approached to donate and participate in the project,” she explains. Businesses both large and small have been able to participate in this most wonderful time of the year. “The response was truly overwhelming with over $200,000 worth of new holiday displays and decorations being donated in 2017, and so far in 2018 another $200,000 plus has been donated.”

“We wanted a catchy name for our holiday lights and decided upon 50 Nights of Lights because the lights will always be

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The fifty-foot Christmas Tree donated by the Janoush family serves as the centerpiece for the Downtown Lights.

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The gigantic Poinsettia Wreath that anchors the south end of the walking trail was purchased from the city of Houston, Texas by Quality Steel.

Snowflake swags turn Court Street into a Winter Wonderland.

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Reindeer Ricky and Roxy dancing to the band playing.

turned on the second Saturday of November when the annual holiday open house is held,” Nowell says. “There are fifty plus nights from the second Saturday in November until January 1.”

In addition to the now over forty-foot lighted Christmas tree and the animated Santa playing the piano that jump started the project, many impressive displays have been added, and more are to be added. “The huge poinsettia wreath, which is located at the south end of the green strip is over fifty feet high. This beautiful display contains thousands of lights and is one-of-a-kind,” Nowell says. “There is a twenty-two-foot nutcracker that stands near the Christmas tree, which is unique. This year we will be adding an awesome drive-through arch to the north end of the green strip, which will be a great addition and will be an eyecatcher. We have a band scene consisting of reindeer and elves playing instruments, and this year Elvis, known as ‘Sno-King,’ will be joining the band. Also, this year Santa and

his elves will be featured on the south end in several different modes of transportation. I love every display that we have, and it is hard not list all of them.”

As for the community, everyone tells Nowell they can’t wait to see what the committee comes up with next.

“I hear comments about how beautiful it was last year and that it was just magical.

Many people said that they invited friends and relatives from out of town to come see the displays. It warmed my heart last year to ride through downtown and see joy that the children and families experienced,” she said.

“The attendance at the first tree lighting ceremony in 2016 was approximately two hundred to three hundred people. Last year there was a sea of people. I have heard people estimate that there were three thousand to five thousand people in attendance last year.

We hope to keep up this tradition.”

Nowell is also quick to point out that creating this magnificent winter wonderland takes a dedicated group who understands the

value of promoting downtown Cleveland and beyond as well as the magic Christmas holds for both the young and old. She credits the city Public Works Department for the incredible work it takes to set up the intricate displays and adds, “This project would not be possible without many, many volunteers. It has been a true community project, and people are always telling me that they want to help and just let them know when help is needed.”

The annual lighting of the tree will take place at 6:30 p.m. on November 10 in downtown Cleveland, and the 50 Nights of Lights will end on January 1, 2019.

Throughout the month of December, the city will host Christmas caroling opportunities, visits by Santa, and horsedrawn carriage rides to view the downtown Christmas spectacle. DM For more on downtown Cleveland’s Christmas extravaganza, picture opportunities, and Santa’s visits, log on to 50nightsoflights.com.

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Good Times in Greenville

8 5 3 S . M A I N S T R E E T, G R E E N V I L L E 662.335.7226

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Heart & Soul of the Delta

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HOME

In the antique-filled parlor, sparkling Yuletide decorations are enhanced by the Barrett’s collection of vintage paperweights.

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Centennial Christmas in Lexington

Fill a grand old house with friends, add fabulous food, and let the merriment begin

BY BRENDA WARE JONES • PHOTOGRAPHY BY TOM BECK

A

ny time a one hundredth birthday rolls around, there is plenty of reason to celebrate!

For Nancy and Don Barrett of Lexington, the centennial being fèted was that of their grand house, “Château Thierry,” situated on a large lot near the old courthouse square. The 6,800-square foot dwelling, built in 1917 by prosperous local businessman Sam Gwin, was acquired by the Barretts in 1982. Last Christmas, the couple hosted a festive, formal seated dinner for forty friends to mark the occasion.

The house was christened by the original owner the year after its completion, to commemorate the World War One battle of the same name: Château Thierry was the first American victory that turned the tide of the War and was the cause for widespread patriotic celebration in July of 1918. “The house was in beautiful, solid condition when we bought it from the Henri Watson family,” says Nancy, noting special features like the eleven-inch-thick walls, centered with a ceramic layer between brick and plaster that provides ample insulation, and the

Don Barrett and his wife, Nancy, await their guests at the foot of the wide staircase. Above, tables are adorned with glimmering place settings.

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Holiday glamour in the smallest details brightens the tables.

perfectly-functioning original cast-iron radiator system. “So, really, at first, all the work we did was cosmetic—freshening and painting.” The house, like many built on that scale in the early part of the last century, is a composite of styles best described as eclectic, with elements of Mediterranean, Craftsman, and Neoclassical, with a nod to Greek Revival thrown in.

The Barretts had worked since the late 1960s with designer Buddy Graham, then of Navarro-McLean Interiors. Graham, who had previously done design work for the Watsons, helped them choose colors, papers, and fabrics for the many spacious

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downstairs rooms, and the five bedrooms.

Over the course of time, they tackled more ambitious improvements, such as a guest addition, portico enclosure, and enclosing the original detached garage to make a summerhouse.

The expansive central hallway, centered by an imposing staircase, is flanked by large sitting rooms. On one side of the house, the porte-cochère was recently enclosed to create a glassed-in dining room, increasing the entertaining capability. Architect Sam Coker masterfully designed this enclosure and also a new double porte-cochere on the back of the house to look as if it were

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A banquet-length table in the port-cochere dining room, crowned with opulent centerpieces by Beth’s Flowers and Gifts of Lexington, is set with holly-sprigged Christmas china. Hanging above the table is a stunning antique crystal chandelier from M.S. Rau Antiques in New Orleans.

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The stained-glass window depicting Christ at Gethsemane, which crowns the upper landing, was reclaimed from the Itta Bena Methodist Church. At the foot of the stairs hangs a vintage chandelier that the Barretts found in California’s Gold Country.

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original to the home. Two sleeping porches upstairs allow even more company to enjoy the Barretts’ hospitality, and this more often than not includes some of their ten grandchildren, ages three to twenty. These are the offspring of the Barretts’ daughter and two sons, all three of whom, as it happens, are lawyers like their father and grandfather.

Both Don and Nancy are Holmes County natives. Her father, Sam Foose, Jr., was a cotton planter in Tchula, and Don’s father practiced law in Lexington.

“Don’s father is listed as a guest at a birthday party in the first year the Gwins lived here,” says Nancy. “So many Lexingtonians have enjoyed coming to events here over the generations, and we’re so happy we can continue that tradition.”

On a crisp, chilly evening last December, the four fireplaces of Château Thierry were ablaze as guests entered to find every corner sparkling with colorful holiday décor. Tables were set in the dining areas, with extra seating at a huge round table at the base of the sweeping staircase.

Mingling over cocktails before dinner was announced, the guests enjoyed toasted rosemary pecans, and crisp deep-fried chicken bits with classic Kum-Bac sauce.

Later, at table, they feasted on beef tenderloin with marchand de vin sauce, fluffy mashed potatoes, and marinated asparagus spears. Hot rolls with strawberry butter completed the menu. In true Southern fashion, there was a choice of desserts: Snowballs and Applesauce Cake from the Tchula Garden Club cookbook, accompanied by Nancy’s father’s special eggnog, a traditional family must-have at holiday time.

Guests were treated to a farewell gift of Nancy’s beautifully packaged homemade toffee.

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One of the rooms in the Barretts’ home is furnished with a bed and dresser made in New Orleans especially for Nathan Bedford Forrest in 1850. The Barretts purchased these pieces from the State of Mississippi when the Florewood Plantation State Park in Greenwood closed.

An event of this daunting scale invites the question of, “Who catered all this?”

Nancy readily confesses, “I did it myself, with my wonderful helpers, whom I’ve trained over the years to valet, cook, set up, and serve.” As a result, the elegant meal and entire evening had a homelike quality not always achieved when outside professionals are brought in.

Laughing conversation and storytelling punctuated the evening, and when it was time to bid farewell, each sated guest was given a parting favor of gaily-wrapped homemade toffee and faux “PayDay” candy bars, so that the sweet memory of a gala evening could linger on.

The hidden compartments in this dresser contain cubbies used to store wigs.

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MARINATED ASPARAGUS This recipe was given to Nancy by her friend Jackie Hammett.

2 ⅔ ½ ½ 1 6 2 1

cans extra-long asparagus cup red wine vinegar cup sugar cup water teaspoon salt cloves sticks cinnamon teaspoon celery seed

Boil all ingredients except asparagus for one minute. Pour over asparagus and chill.

Recipe can be halved, doubled, or tripled easily.

DADDY’S DESSERT EGGNOG 6 ½ 2 6

eggs cup sugar cups whipping cream tablespoons bourbon, to taste

After separating the eggs, beat yolks until light yellow and add the sugar a little at a time. Walk away from the mixer and let the yolks and sugar beat for at least five minutes, stirring occasionally. Beating the yolks and sugar this extra time is the secret to making the eggnog much more stable.

Beat egg whites until they hold a soft peak. Whip the cream until thick and holds a peak. Continue to beat cream and add the bourbon gradually.

Fold egg whites, cream, and yolks together gently. Chill and serve with sprinkling of nutmeg on top, if desired.

Nancy enjoys using her collection of hand-gilt and decoupaged plates by Scott Potter.

– Sam Foose, Jr.

SNOWBALLS 1 pint whipping cream, whipped 3 tablespoons powdered sugar 1 small can crushed pineapple vanilla wafers, approximately 60 2 cans dry coconut

Cream should be whipped thick enough to spread. Mix in powdered sugar. After mashing the juice from the pineapple, add to the cream mixture, folding in. Spread the mixture between three vanilla wafers and, holding with fingers, spread around the wafers to make round and ball-like. Roll in shredded coconut and refrigerate overnight.

These may be frozen if you wish to use them later. Makes approximately 20 servings.

– Mrs. Everarde Jones, Tchula Garden Club Cookbook

DELTA APPLESAUCE CAKE Nancy notes, “My mother made this cake every Christmas. She used the original recipe from the Tchula Garden Club Cookbook. I changed it several ways over the years. It is delicious!”

1 1 1 1 1 2 4 2

cup butter cup granulated sugar cup brown sugar cup applesauce cup apple butter, or can use all applesauce teaspoons baking soda, dissolved in water cups flour cups chopped pecans

2 1 2 2 2 ½ ½

cups floured chopped dates or raisins cup red wine, or whiskey if desired teaspoons cinnamon teaspoons cloves teaspoons nutmeg teaspoon vanilla teaspoon lemon extract

Combine all ingredients and bake in a greased and floured tube or Bundt pan at 250 degrees for 30 minutes, then increase heat to 300 degrees and continue baking for 50 minutes. Check for doneness, as all ovens do not heat equally. DM DELTA MAGAZINE 2018

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211 Fulton St. • Greenwood 662.453.4411

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Christmas in Ch i Natchez MISSISSIPPI

Lik e c Like com o m iing n g home home f or fo r th t he eh holida olida ay y s!

8 0 0 . 6 4 7. 6 7 2 4 www.visitnatchez.org christmasinnatchez.com

Mag gnoll ia Lighting h

Residential Lighting ·

Hernando Oxford Tupelo Ridgeland

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Delta Magazine’s

2018 Dining & Restaurant Guide

TIME. TO. EAT.

BYOB

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BRING YOUR BREAKFAST LUNCH DINNER BRUNCH RESERVATIONS FULL BAR OWN BOTTLE SERVED SERVED SERVED SERVED RECOMMENDED LIVE MUSIC CATERING FACEBOOK TWITTER INSTAGRAM

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dining & restaurant guide

Giardina’s

314 Howard Street / Greenwood / (662) 455-4227 thealluvian.com/giardinas A legendary institution enjoyed by generations in the Delta, Giardina’s offers a well-tested menu dating from 1936. A unique blend of sophistication and warmth, Giardina’s is the perfect setting for any event.

Seating includes fourteen private booths, a main dining area, and a bar that connects to The Alluvian Hotel.

In addition to the steaks, seafood, and pastas from the founder’s native Italy, Giardina’s kitchen continues to offer innovative southern cuisine with the Chef Cameron Shaw's ever-changing specials and menu creations. Giardina’s is open for dinner Monday through Saturday from 5pm to 10pm.

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Doe’s Eat Place

502 Nelson Street / Greenville / (662) 334-3315 / Paducah / (270) 443-9006 Monroe / (318) 737-7169 / Biloxi / (228) 271-6377 / doeseatplace.com People worldwide visit the Delta to hear the blues and to taste the savory steaks and hot tamales offered only at Doe’s Eat Place, family owned since 1941. First-time visitors entering through the front door are pleasantly surprised to find themselves in the kitchen. Family style, family welcomed, that’s the charm of having a Doe’s experience.

Specialties are 2- to 3-pound steaks, homemade hot tamales, French fries from a cast iron skillet and Aunt Flo’s famous salad. Does’s Greenville open 5pm until. Closed Sunday. Hot tamales on sale from 9am to closing. New locations at Margaritaville Resort in Biloxi and in Monroe, Louisiana. Now open in Ridgeland and Springfield, Missouri. Coming soon to Florence, Mississippi. Franchises available. Call (662) 832-9003 or (662) 822-2689.

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Cicero’s

4587 Old Leland Road / Stoneville / (662) 686-7000 For over 35 years, Cicero’s Restaurant has been serving the Delta’s most delicious steaks and seafood! Located in Stoneville (across the railroad tracks, on the right), we are family owned and operated; Owners, Trula, Carl, Ryan and Susan Moore. Open for lunch Monday through Friday 11am to 2pm. Cicero’s offers a variety of sandwiches (BBQ, reuben, philly steak, fried green tomato po-boy), salads, plate lunch specials daily during lunch hours! Full service restaurant for dinner hours, Monday through Saturday 5pm to close. Reservations not required, but appreciated. Our specialties include famous catfish and shrimp poboys, BBQ, steaks, chicken and wraps; plus we offer a variety of specialty beers. We cater to both large and small groups! Wedding rehearsal dinners, business dinners, physicians’ offices, etc.

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Fat Baby’s Catfish House

3670 Highway 61 / Cleveland / (662) 721-9001 fatbabyscatfishhouse.com Fat Baby’s serves the best fried or grilled catfish, shrimp, ribeyes, frog legs and catfish gumbo in the Delta. Our signature menu item is the famous catfish bread. You’ve got to try it! Fat Baby’s Catfish House only serves U.S. farm-raised catfish. Fat Baby’s on Highway 61 is a family-oriented, buffet-style restaurant, plus short-order items and take-out orders. Live entertainment Friday nights, 5pm to 8pm.

We offer the best plate lunches for dine-in or take-out 7 days a week, 11am to 2:30pm and one of the biggest buffets of the best-prepared catfish and chicken in the Mississippi Delta.

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dining & restaurant guide

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dining & restaurant guide

Save v Ro o m Fo r D ess e rt For 50 years, The Crystal Grill G has been serving Delta classics to generations of families for lunch and dinner.

The Crystal Grill is known fo or its generous portions and legendary desserts. Locals kno ow to save room for dessert.

What will you try?

OPEN TUESDAY - THURSDAY, SUND S AY 11 11:00 00 AM - 99:00 00 PM SATURDAY - SUNDAY 11:00 AM - 9:30 PM 662.453.6530 423 CARROLLTON AVENUE GREENWOOD, MISSISSIPPI facebook.com m/TheCry stalGrill

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dining & restaurant guide

Cajun Shotgun House & BBQ

1831 S. Martin Luther King Blvd. Ste. 120 / Greenville / (662) 334-9685 Cajun Shotgun House is Greenville’s finest in Cajun Cuisine and BBQ! Located in the Walmart Shopping Center, they also serve a variety of other great options including steaks, burgers, crawfish (in season), BBQ ribs and salads. All served with a smile in a down-home Delta atmosphere. Monday and Tuesday 11am to 8pm; Wednesday through Saturday 11am to 9pm; Sunday 11am to 2pm. Call us for all of your catering needs: private parties, rehearsal dinners, business meetings and other special occasions. Now placing orders for Thanksgiving and Christmas: fried turkeys, casseroles, pies and cakes (2 weeks notice with deposit).

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& BBQ B

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Airport Grocery

3608 Highway 61 North / Cleveland / (662) 843-4817 airportgrocerycleveland.com A family-owned icon of the Delta where you can slow down with the rhythm of the blues, fill up on good times, and enjoy out-of-this-world food at a down-to-earth place. Menu favorites include house-made Delta-style tamales, oldfashioned burgers, BBQ smoked in house, charcoal-grilled steaks, and farm-raised catfish. Discover a comfortable, eclectic atmosphere with an impressive collection of nostalgic memorabilia, with some for sale. Just like the relics on the walls, blues musicians tell a story of the wear and tear of days gone by. Musicians from Eden Brent, Fingers Taylor, and Blind Mississippi Morris have given remarkable performances on our humble stage. Private dining room available. Catering offered for any occasion. Kitchen open Monday through Saturday 11am to 10pm; Sunday 5pm to 9pm. Full bar with large selection and Mississippi-brewed beer.

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dining & restaurant guide

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Festival of Lights JEWISH FAMILIES SHARE HANUKKAH TRADITIONS

BY REBEKKAH ARANT • PHOTOGRAPHY BY BILL POWELL

M

uch like the tapestry of agricultural fields that covers the Delta, the cultural landscape of this area is enriched by its diversity. In the post-Civil War era, the Delta beckoned with the promise of opportunity, and families from around the world answered her call to carve out a future for themselves and generations to come. Many Jewish families moved to the area to sell goods to local farmers and townspeople, and eventually they set up storefronts in most towns, contributing significantly to the economy of the Delta. These upstanding members of the community also became leaders in business and politics. In rooting their lives here, they have gifted their traditions and culture to the Delta. In this celebratory season, it is only fitting to celebrate the wonderful diversity of this region by exploring how the holiday traditions of Jewish families in the Delta help to shape and preserve cultural heritage.

Jewish families in the Delta gather together to celebrate Hanukkah 112 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

during the winter season; this holiday usually falls in November or December and serves as a remembrance of the miracle that took place after the Jews, under the leadership of Judah Maccabee, defeated the Syrians and drove them out of Israel. The pagan Syrians had oppressed the Jewish people for many years and defiled the Temple by setting up idols and making sacrifices to pagan gods. When the Maccabees entered the Temple to cleanse and rededicate it, they only found enough oil to light the Temple lights (a seven-branched candelabrum known as a menorah) for one night; however, it miraculously burned for eight nights, just long enough for new oil to be found. It is this miracle that Hanukkah celebrates.

During this eight-day Festival of Lights, family celebrations include lighting a candle on the menorah each night, singing songs, and playing games—a favorite is playing with a dreidel, four-sided top. Traditional Hanukkah foods are fried in oil to commemorate

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Hanukkah festivities each night center around the lighting of the menorah, a candelabra made of nine candles, one for each night of Hanukkah and one “helper” candle, the shammash, to light the others. One candle is added each night from right to left, but they are lit from left to right. Before lighting the candles, families recite blessings, and following the lighting, they sing hymns together. Menorahs come in many shapes and sizes, and in some families each person lights his or her own menorah each night.

Thanks to the Levingston and Lubin families of Cleveland for sharing their menorahs and dreidel.

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the miracle that happened long ago. Members of Greenville’s Hebrew Union Temple gather for a congregation-wide Hanukkah party where the menu includes potato latkes and brisket. In preparation for the meal, Leanne and Alan Silverblatt of Indianola and others work hard grating thirty to forty pounds of potatoes, making them into pancakes, and frying them in oil. Leanne shares that the Hanukkah celebration is a “special, happy family time.” The Silverblatts, owners of Young Ideas in Indianola, enjoy actively participating in the celebrations and seeing the joy it brings to young and old congregation members alike.

When their children were younger, the Silverblatts often invited Christian friends into their home during Hanukkah to share the meaning of this special holiday. In reflecting on past Hanukkah celebrations Leanne says, “We have been real fortunate that our Christian friends have been very supportive of us and have been through the years interested in our religion. The more we know about each other’s religions the more we find we have a lot more in common than not.”

The Goldberg family of Greenwood gets together during the eight nights of Hanukkah to celebrate traditionally, but they also play Hanukkah Harry, a game similar to a white elephant gift exchange.

Eric Goldberg says that the most meaningful part of Hanukkah is knowing that he will get a chance to be with family. He explains, “Everyone typically stays busy in their own respective lives, but this is a time to come together.”

Jewish families make traditions and cultural heritage a priority in order to preserve them. Leanne Silverblatt points out, “Most of the Jewish religion is based on holiday times and observing certain rituals…That is something that people continue, and that keeps it alive and ties you to the past.” Eric Goldberg echoes those thoughts.

“I feel like I learn something every year about the tradition... It is important to help be able to pass that heritage down that I was taught and learned over the years.”

The roots of the Jewish community in the Delta run deep and have made a lasting impact. And although the number of Jewish families in the region has declined over the years, committed families continue to positively influence the Delta and share their traditions with their communities, thus shaping the larger culture of the area.

Hanukkah is a remembrance of the Jewish people’s dedication in the midst of hardship, and the devotion of Delta families to maintaining cultural heritage throughout the generations is a beautiful reflection of that same spirit.

Here we share recipes for a few common dishes prepared during the Hannukah season. DM

BEEF BRISKET Developed by cousins Leanne Silverblatt and Karen Dattel, this is a “little bit of this and a little bit of that” kind of recipe!

One 7 to 10 pound brisket salt and pepper onion salt celery salt garlic salt 2 medium onions, chopped

ketchup Heinz 57 sauce Worcestershire sauce A.1. Steak sauce soy sauce water

Line a large aluminum roasting pan or Dutch oven with heavy duty foil leaving enough excess foil on both sides to be able to fold it over and seal the brisket in when you have finished seasoning.

Generously season to taste, both sides of brisket (season lean side first so it is on the bottom with fat side facing up) with the salt, pepper, onion salt, celery salt, and garlic salt. After seasoning the fat side, spread onions over the brisket.

In a 2 cups measuring bowl add the following to taste, ketchup, Heinz 57, Worcestershire sauce, and A.1. Steak sauce, a few dashes of soy sauce plus enough water to make about 2 cups of liquid. The sauce should be thick, but still a pourable consistency. If not thick enough, add a little more of the “thicker” ingredients. Then gently pour or spoon over the onion-covered brisket, being careful not to wash off the onions.

Fold the foil over the seasoned brisket and seal. Leave enough room between the foil and the meat for “breathing room.” Store in refrigerator overnight. Take out the next day and leaving the brisket sealed in the foil, bake at 275 degrees for 5 to 6 hours. Remove from oven and allow to cool to room temp. Refrigerate overnight again.

The next day the fat can be easily lifted off. There will be a nice gravy left. To serve, slice with an electric knife against the grain and put back in gravy. At this point it may an be reheated to serve. Brisket will keep in the refrigerator for several days or can be frozen.

– Leanne Silverblatt and Karen Dattel

POTATO LATKES 2 2 1 1 1

cups grated potatoes, well drained eggs rounded tablespoon grated onion teaspoon salt rounded tablespoon flour oil for frying

Combine potatoes, eggs, onion, salt, and flour. Heat oil in iron skillet or heavy skillet. Drop by kitchen tablespoon the potato mixture into the hot oil. Fry until browned and crisp. Do not let burn.

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JELLY DOUGHNUTS 3½ ½ ¼ 1 1 3½ 1¼ 5

cups flour teaspoon salt cup sugar package dry instant yeast egg, lightly beaten tablespoons room temperature butter cut into small cubes cups lukewarm milk cups oil strawberry or other jam, to fill ½ cup powdered sugar

Sift flour into a large bowl. Whisk together the flour and other dry ingredients. Mix the flour mixture on low speed and add the egg and butter. Gradually add the warm milk and knead the mixture using the dough hook attachment for 8 to 10 minutes on low speed until the dough is soft.

Roll the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let rise for 1½-2 hours, until doubled in bulk. Deflate the dough and place it on a lightly floured surface. Gently roll out to ¾ inch thick, and cut out doughnuts using 2-inch round cutter.

Place the doughnuts on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and cover loosely with plastic wrap. Allow to rise again for 20 minutes. While the doughnuts are rising, heat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350 degrees. Carefully place 2 or 3 of the doughnuts into the oil and fry for 1 to 2 minutes per side, until golden brown, but not too brown. Remove from the oil with a slotted spoon and drain on a plate lined with paper towels. Repeat with remaining dough. Allow to cool slightly before filling.

Fill a piping bag with jam. Using a sharp knife, make a small slit in the doughnut. Place the piping bag inside the slit and fill until you can see the filling. Sprinkle with powdered sugar.

BLINTZ CASSEROLE For the batter 1 1/3 6 1½ ½ 1 2

stick butter, softened cup sugar large eggs cups sour cream cup orange juice cup all-purpose flour teaspoons baking powder

For the filling 8 2 2 2 2

ounce package cream cheese, softened cups cottage cheese egg yolks tablespoons sugar teaspoons vanilla extract Garnish: Fruit, sour cream, or whipped cream

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 9 x 13 baking dish.

In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar. Add the eggs and mix until just combined. Add the sour cream, orange juice, flour, and baking powder and mix until blended. Pour half of the batter into prepared baking dish.

In another bowl, cream the cream cheese. Add the rest of the filling ingredients and beat until well blended. Spoon the filling on top of the batter and spread evenly. Pour remaining batter over the filling and spread evenly. Bake uncovered for 50 to 60 minutes until golden. Cut and top with sour cream or whipped cream and fresh fruit.

During Hanukkah families often play a game of chance using the dreidel, a four-sided spinning top. Each side of the dreidel has a Hebrew letter marked on it: nun, gimmel, hey, and shin. The letters stand for the phrase, “a great miracle happened there,” referring to the defeat of the Syrians and the miracle of the temple lights. Before each round begins, players contribute game pieces to the pot, usually something small like pennies, chocolate coins, or raisins. Each player spins the dreidel, and depending on how the dreidel lands, he or she either gets game pieces from the pot or gives pieces to the pot. A person wins by getting everything from the pot.

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From the editors of Delta Magazine

DU DU S T ROAD A

A collection of the writings of HANK BURDINE

in e th

RECOLLECTIONS OF A DELT TA BOY

Foreword by

JULIA REED

ij Epilogue by

RICHARD GRANT

Limited First Edition sold exclusively through Delta Magazine and authorized dealers.

Call our office or go online to order your copy today!

Check our social media posts for book launch and signing dates.

662-843-2700 • deltamagazine.com

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RETRO

Sips & Apps

for your

Holiday Party what’s old is new again

F

BY CINDY COOPWOOD AND CORDELIA CAPPS • PHOTOGRAPHY BY RORY DOYLE

amiliarity may breed contempt at times, but there’s a certain comfort that comes from the tastes and smells of our collective past. This holiday we’re going old school with retro recipes that exude 50s and 60s cool. Some cocktails from that era have become classics, others have been long forgotten, and we are bringing them back. Their names alone are a delight—Pink Squirrel anyone? Full of the flavors brought home and made popular by American GIs who were exposed to Pacific and Asian cultures during World War II, these tasty throwbacks seem new again. And, remember your mom’s clam dip? Well here you go. The party food our mothers and grandmothers made (and we all still love) evokes memories of the family gatherings and celebrations of our childhoods. So try these recipes we’ve resurrected and while you’re at it, dig around in your cabinets to find the funky, never-used vintage serving pieces and barware you couldn’t bear to throw away. They make the party all the more fun! Happy Retro Holidays! –CC

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MARTINI 3 ounces gin or vodka ½ ounce dry vermouth dash orange bitters, optional

For garnish olives pearl onions pepperoncini

Fill a shaker ¾ full with ice. Pour in gin or vodka and vermouth and shake vigorously until very chilled.

Add the orange bitters if desired.

Garnish with a olives, pearl onions and pepperoncini if desired.

For a Dirty Martini, simply add ½ an ounce of olive juice.

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The options for dippers are endless… carrots, apple slices, broccoli and asparagus are also great choices.

Dippers grilled sausage chunks french bread chunks cherry tomatoes baby potatoes, boiled and quartered

CLASSIC CHEESE FONDUE 1 ½ 3 1 1 1 ½ 1

pound Swiss cheese, shredded pound Gruyere cheese, shredded tablespoons cornstarch garlic clove, finely minced cup dry white wine tablespoon lemon juice teaspoon dry mustard tablespoon kirsch (cherry brandy), optional Pinch of nutmeg, for garnish, optional

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In a small bowl, toss the cheeses with cornstarch and set aside.

Combine the wine, garlic and lemon juice in a fondue pot, if using, or in a medium saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium heat.

Gradually stir the cheese a handful at a time into the simmering liquid. Allow the cheese to melt, stirring gently, before adding more.

This will make a smoother fondue. When all cheese is incorporated and melted, stir in the dry mustard, brandy (if desired) and sprinkle with nutmeg. If using a fondue pot, place over the burner. A slow cooker set on low also works well.

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BAY BREEZE 3 ounces vodka 6 ounces cranberry juice 3 ounces pineapple juice

For garnish cherries orange wheels

Simply pour vodka and fruit juices into a glass and add ice. Gently stir to mix. Garnish with orange wheels and cherries as desired.

Vintage glassware and tray found at Consign for a Cause in Cleveland.

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SHRIMP AND PINEAPPLE KEBABS 6 4 3 1

tablespoons honey tablespoons soy sauce tablespoons vinegar pound large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined ½ pineapple, cut into chunks 2 bunches green onions, cut into 2-inch pieces 10 wooden skewers, soaked in water

Heat a grill to medium-high. Whisk together honey, soy sauce, and vinegar.

Pour half of sauce in second bowl to save for serving.

Alternate shrimp, pineapple, and onions onto skewers. Brush kebabs with marinade and allow to sit 10 minutes.

Grill until shrimp begin to turn opaque, 2 minutes. Brush with additional sauce, flip, and brush again. Grill until shrimp are cooked through and pineapple and onions are lightly charred. Serve with reserved sauce.

BLUE HAWAII 1½ 1½ 2 4 1 1 1

ounces light rum ounces vodka ounces blue curaçao ounces pineapple juice tablespoon simple syrup tablespoon lemon juice tablespoon lime juice

For garnish pineapple cherries lime wheels

Pour all of the ingredients into a shaker tin.

Shake with ice and strain into a glass filled with fresh ice. Garnish with pineapple wedges, lime wheels and cherries as desired.

⤵

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These vintage cocktail glasses pop when filled with colorful concoctions.

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ASPARAGUS ROLLS 1 2 ½ ½ 12 24 ¼ 3

8-ounce spreadable cream cheese tablespoons chopped green onion teaspoon salt teaspoon pepper slices white bread, crusts removed fresh asparagus spears, trimmed cup butter, melted tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese paprika

In a small bowl, combine the cream cheese, green onion and seasonings. Flatten bread slices with a rolling pin; spread with cream cheese mixture. Trim asparagus 2 inches longer than bread. Place a spear on each slice, roll up bread and place seam side down on a greased baking sheet. Brush with butter; sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and a dash of paprika.

Bake at 400 degrees for 10 to 12 minutes or until lightly browned. Serve immediately.

SALMON MOUSSE CANAPES 2 1 8 1 1 1

English cucumbers 8-ounce block cream cheese, softened ounces smoked salmon tablespoon milk teaspoon lemon-pepper seasoning teaspoon chopped fresh dill salt and pepper to taste ½ cup heavy whipping cream additional chopped fresh dill

Cut cucumbers into ½-inch slices. Using a melon baller, remove a small amount of cucumber from the center, leaving the bottom intact.

Place the cream cheese, salmon, milk, lemon pepper and dill in a food processor; cover and process until blended. Transfer to a small bowl and season with salt and pepper.

In another bowl, beat whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Fold into salmon mixture.

Pipe or dollop mousse onto cucumber slices; garnish with dill. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

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PINK SQUIRREL Crème de noyaux is an almond-flavored creme liqueur with a red hue that is perfectly complemented by cherries. ⅓ cup crème de noyaux, plus extra for rimming glasses ⅓ cup white crème de cacao ⅔ cup vanilla ice cream Maraschino cherries, for garnish (optional) colored sugar for rimming glasses

Rim glasses (if desired), by moistening edges of rims with liqueur then dipping into the sugar. Set aside.

Add both liqueurs and the ice cream to a blender and process until smooth. Pour into rimmed glasses and serve immediately. Garnish with cherries if desired.

Editor’s tip: We blended a few cherries directly into the mixture for extra flavor and color.

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1 2 1 to 2 1 1

ounce sweet vermouth ounces rye whiskey dashes Angostura bitters maraschino cherry, for garnish orange twist, for garnish

⤴

Combine the vermouth, rye whiskey, and bitters in a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Stir gently until chilled. Strain into chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with cherries and an orange twist.

Jiggers are very helpful when measuring liquor for cocktails. Typically, the larger cup measures out 1½ ounces and the smaller cup ¾ ounce.

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⤵

MANHATTAN A classic Manhattan is the perfect drink for whiskey lovers.

CLAM DIP WITH RITZ CRACKERS

8 ounces minced clams, drained, reserving 2 tablespoons of liquid 1 8-ounce block cream cheese, room temperature ¼ cup sour cream 2 teaspoons lemon juice 1 garlic clove, minced ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce ½ teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon Tabasco sauce black pepper to taste dash of paprika

Beat cream cheese, clam juice and sour cream with a hand mixer on low until creamy. Add all remaining ingredients except minced clams, blend well. Fold in minced clams last. Chill for about an hour, sprinkle paprika on top and serve with Ritz crackers. DM

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Visit Clarksdale “ Home of e Blues”

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visit our w ebsite ww ww.heatonpecans.com

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HISTORY

The sinking  the

PENNSYLVANIA Mark Twain’s calamitous connection to the Mississippi Delta

BY WADE S. WINEMAN, JR.

Artist’s drawing of the Pennsylvania based upon the sister ship Philadelphia from the Dave Thomson collection.

ew Mississippians today are aware how closely connected our state is to one of the most-famous authors of all time—Samuel Clemens—more wellknown, of course, as Mark Twain. Born Samuel Langhorne

F

Clemens, Twain published numerous works, including books of historical fiction, short stories, and nonfiction. Fellow author, William Faulkner, once described him as, “the first truly American writer.”

It is well-known that Twain spent many years working on riverboats along the Mississippi River. As a result, “Old Muddy” extensively influenced his writing and served as the backdrop for several of his works, including e Adventures of Tom Sawyer and Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, the latter being generally considered as Twain’s chief contribution to American literature. Ernest Hemingway once said, “All modern American literature comes from one book by Mark Twain called Huckleberry Finn. ere was nothing before. ere has been nothing as good since.”

Now, how does Twain connect specifically with the YazooMississippi Delta? One of his primary connections is through an

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event which forever associated Twain with one of the smallest, and today, relatively insignificant, villages located in that alluvial plain— the town of Austin, Mississippi. Unfortunately, the connection originated with a dreadful calamity which, to this day, remains one of the most significant events in Austin’s history: the explosion and subsequent sinking of the steamboat Pennsylvania at Ship Island, just out from Austin, on the morning of June 13, 1858. e Pennsylvania accident resulted in a loss of life variously estimated at between 150 and 200, a total which included that of Henry Clemens, the brother of Twain. Twain later wrote about the disaster in his book, Life on the Mississippi.

A quick inspection of a relatively current edition of a “Flood Control and Navigation Map” of the lower Mississippi River will show the location of “Ship Island” on the page showing the area in the vicinity of Hardin Cut-Off. Located in Tunica County, Ship Island—like many other “islands” along the Mississippi River—is an island only when the river is running at high streamgage readings.

At some period during most spring seasons, the river typically rises to levels submerging all access roads to the island and occasionally will do so during the wintertime, as well. But for the major portion

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Lloyd’s map of the lower Mississippi River from St. Louis to the Gulf of Mexico. This portion shows the river, and Ship Island near Austin in 1862.

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THE MARK TWAIN HOUSE & MUSEUM

LEARNODO-NEWTONIC.COM

of the year, Ship island is connected to the mainland and can be century the river’s unrelenting silt deposition. Over such a long easily accessed by vehicle over dirt roads. is was not always the period of time, annual siltation would have easily entombed any case, however. such wreckage under many feet of alluvial sediment.

Ship Island had originally been an island in the truest sense, Sam Clemens became a “cub-pilot” in February of 1857, and the completely surrounded by water and unconnected to the shoreline, Clemens brothers’ relationships with the Pennsylvania began when year-round, the river’s main channel dividing at the head of the he was employed on the vessel in September of the same year. e island and running along both of its sides. In the 1820’s and 30’s, Pennsylvania was a relatively new steamboat at the time—only three the eastern shoreline of the river’s main channel had run directly in years old—and was a side-wheel, wood-hulled packet, 247 feet long, front of the small town of Austin, Mississippi, and the river was 32 feet wide, with a draft of about 6.3 feet. In February 1858, Sam continuing to sweep past Austin in 1858, the year in which the encouraged his younger brother, Henry—only 19 at the time—to events surrounding our current story took place. In that year, Austin join him on the Pennsylvania as a “mud clerk.” e mud-clerk job was not only a bustling river port, but was in its tenth year as the was a starting position, without pay, but with the opportunity of county seat of Tunica County, a role the town would continue to promotion. e job’s title resulted from the unpleasantness of its fill until 1888, when the title would be surrendered to the town of duties, which often required wading ashore in deep mud.

Tunica. Austin thereafter would begin a e concluding chapter in the population decline which continues to Pennsylvania chronicle began with the this day, a decline attributable to two steamer’s departure from New Orleans separate developments: the construction in June 1858. Sam had an altercation of a new railroad line through Tunica in with William Brown, a pilot on the ship the mid-1880’s, and three successive who had attacked Henry. Because of floods—in 1882, 1883, and 1884— this, Sam decided to travel upriver later which left large sand deposits at Austin’s on another steamboat and rejoin the doorstep, cutting off its riverboat Pennsylvania, after which Brown was to landing from the river’s main channel. be replaced by the ship’s captain. Sam’s After moving away from Austin, the decision most likely saved his life. main channel of the river continued a e events that followed are as told westward shift, until it ran entirely along in Chapter 20 of Life On e Mississippi. the west side of Ship Island, and after the Henry Clemens brother of Samuel Clemens more well According to an eye witness, at six known as Mark Twain.

Hardin Cutoff, which created a new Samuel Clemens. o’clock in the morning on Sunday, June oxbow lake—“Tunica Cutoff”—in 13, the Pennsylvania, with a wood-flat 1942, the channel began running in tow, was moving upstream against the several miles west of the island. strong current of a major flood, two My family has owned a portion of miles above Ship Island, near Austin.

Ship Island since the early 1900s. My Most of the passengers onboard were great-grandfather and his sons left asleep when four of the ship’s boilers Gates, Tennessee in 1896 and came to exploded destroying the front third of Greenville, Mississippi, establishing a the boat. Following the explosion, large saw-mill business. ey purchased portions of the ship, including the timberland upstream so logs could be After Henry’s death, the steamer Hannibal City transported chimneys, dropped back down on the rafted together on the river and floated Samuel Clemens and the body of his dead brother from boat creating a mass of rubble. Chaos St. Louis back to Hannibal, Missouri for burial. downstream to the mill. Although the ensued, followed by an eruption of fire. mill closed in 1929, it was decided that “Shrieks and groans filled the air,” Twain the Ship Island tract in Tunica County would continue to be held wrote. “A great many persons had been scalded, a great many for investment. In the mid-1970s, while my dad and faithful crippled; the explosion had driven an iron bar through one man’s longtime employee, O. L. Actwood, were surveying the south body—I think they said he was a priest.” boundary of the Ship Island tract, their survey-compass needle was In a letter home, Sam wrote: “...Henry was asleep—was blown pulled strongly off course by an unseen magnetic attraction along up—then fell back on the hot boilers, and I suppose that the rubbish the west bank of Old River Lake, an old cut-off oxbow that was the fell on him, for he is injured internally. He got into the water and last remaining vestige of what had once formed the main channel swam to shore, and got into the flatboat with the other survivors. of the river in the mid-1800’s, when it had churned past the foot of He had nothing on but his wet shirt, and lay there burning up with Austin. a southern sun and freezing in the wind till the Kate Frisbee came Land surveyors understand that such a strong magnetic attraction along.” Some later accounts would say that Henry, wounded as he is typically caused by the presence of a large iron object lying nearby was, swam back to the Pennsylvania in an attempt to help rescue the on the surface of the ground, or a similar large object buried wounded. underground. After encountering the magnetic anomaly, my dad After fire broke out, all who were still alive and who had not been always wondered if the attraction might have been caused by the trapped within the wreckage began transferring as rapidly as possible presence of one of the steam boilers or other structural remains of to the wood flat in tow behind, which was cut loose to avoid the the Pennsylvania, which, following the accident, had settled to the flames after being filled to capacity with survivors. Left to the river bottom and had subsequently experienced over the ensuing vagaries of the torrent, the powerless barge could do nothing but

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WADE WINEMAN

drift downstream, finally settling on the upper end of Ship Island. precisely how deeply the steamer is buried under the silt. After 160 Soon thereafter, the victims watched as the mother vessel, engulfed years, however, it would be reasonable to expect that the object’s silt completely in flames, floated by and settled against the bank before overlay could easily be ten-to-twenty feet in thickness or more. burning all the way to the water line and sinking.

A careful study, using ground-penetrating radar or other Two days after the departure of the Pennsylvania from New technology, would perhaps provide a reliable estimate of its depth.

Orleans, Sam Clemens had boarded the steamer, A.T. Lacey, and A similar excavation occurred in 1988, after the steamer, Arabia, was departed. A couple of days later, the Lacey landed at Greenville, discovered beneath a soybean field near present-day Kansas City, Mississippi, and he heard someone shout, “e Pennsylvania is one-half mile from the current channel of the Missouri River. e blown up at Ship Island, and a hundred and fifty lives lost!”

Arabia went to the bottom of the Missouri in 1856, and by the time Twain, however, didn’t get the full details of the horrific event it was finally extricated from its tomb 132 years later, it was covered until the Lacey reached Memphis later. with forty-five feet of silt and the cost of excavation amounted to Upon reaching the Bluff City, Twain rushed to Henry and sat over 1 million dollars. In today’s dollars, the cost would be more almost constantly at his bedside, appreciative of the kindnesses than twice that amount. afforded by the people of Memphis. Twain described Henry’s travails Some of the old steamers that sank in the 1800s, however, carried following the accident: “His wounds were not dressed until he virtual treasure troves of artifacts, such as those discovered when the reached Memphis, fifteen hours Arabia was salvaged. Salvaged from after the explosion. He was the Arabia was a veritable senseless and motionless for twelve cornucopia of products and hours after that. But may God possessions of the era, some of it bless Memphis, this noblest city on perfectly preserved in the anaerobic the face of the earth. She has done environment in which it was her duty by these poor afflicted found. e artifacts ranged from creatures—especially Henry, for he fine china, firearms, knives, and has had five—aye, ten, fifteen, other personal possessions, to twenty times the care and attention beautiful glass bottles for ordinary that anyone else has had. Dr. contents, such as liquor or ketchup, Peyton, the best physician in small-mouthed bottles containing Memphis, sat by him for thirty-six preserved fruits for pies, as well as hours. ere are thirty-two scalded bright green sweet pickles (which men in that room, and you would were still edible) Also recovered know Dr. Peyton better than I can were a wealth of delightfully describe him, if you could follow printed buttons, 4,000 shoes and him around and hear each man boots, more than three million murmur as he passes—May the Indian trade beads, numerous sets God of Heaven bless you, of dishes and housewares, all Doctor!” manner of clothing items, and even Henry’s skin and lungs had two pre-fabricated homes, which been badly scalded by steam and were sold as kits and could be he had possibly incurred internal delivered to the frontier and then injuries as well. Although his This property line corner pipe on the edge of Old River Lake is near the assembled. is listing is a very condition was grave, he lingered spot where an underground magnetic attraction was encountered on Ship small sample of the museum’s large Island. It is believed this is the location where the wreckage of the for more than a week before dying Pennsylvania may be entombed in Tunica County. The steel corner markers and varied collection, which is still on June 21. As Twain described it, in the photo were placed after the magnetic anomaly was discovered. a work-in-progress. “his hurts were past help.” Twain All told, it is estimated that the reflected in e Autobiography Of Mark Twain, “I never knew Henry Arabia’s cargo weighed 200 tons, and it will be another eight-to-ten to do a vicious thing toward me or toward anyone else—but he years before it will all be recovered. An estimate of the value of the frequently did righteous ones that cost me as heavily. It was his duty Arabia’s recovered cargo has still not been made, even though the to report me when I needed reporting and neglected to do it myself, experts on the television show, Antiques Roadshow, were invited to and he was very faithful in discharging that duty. He is Sid in Tom make an estimate. Due to the extent and size of the salvaged content, Sawyer. But Sid was not Henry. Henry was a very much finer and however, they refused to do so. e salvage has enough value, better boy than ever Sid was.” however, that the owners have opened a private museum in Kansas From a description in an 1858 New York Times article, the site City, and the museum has become one of the city’s biggest tourist where the Pennsylvania sank in front of Austin could easily be located attractions. on the portion of Ship Island where we encountered the magnetic If it could be reasonably ascertained what the Pennsylvania’s attraction while surveying in the mid-1970’s. e only way to verify contents were, as well as their estimated value, perhaps it would this, however, would be to excavate with heavy equipment, such as make its recovery similarly feasible. From my current perspective, a bulldozer, track hoe, or dragline. If indeed the mysterious object however, such an undertaking falls obviously underneath the or objects consist of the remains of the Pennsylvania, it would be heading of, “roll of the dice,” and is one that will remain on my almost impossible, without technological assistance, to judge “back-burner” for an indeterminate period. DM DelTA MAGAzINe 2018

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DMI

Fine Timber Land & Farms BIG BLACK RIVER PROPERTY • • • • • •

$7,000,000 for 1968 surveyed acres-Southeast of Vicksburg Over 1550 acres of mature old growth hardwoods that join four miles of river frontage 400 acre of rich river bottom farmland and two excellent fishing lakes Legendary trophy bucks and turkey hunting on the banks of the river Located within a short drive form Baton Rouge, Bastrop, Monroe, Vicksburg, and Jackson Contact our Brokers to schedule a showing, Real Estate Broker Danny Rice 601-529-2847

MALLARD’S ROOST • • • • • •

$2,400,000 for 600 acres-located 15 miles south of Charleston, MS. Heart of the flyway 120 acre Cypress and Tupelo Gum Brake an incredible greentree area with shooting holes 270 acres of #1 sandy loam farmland with well and 88 acres of CRP that combined produce $40,000 annual cashflow Located in the middle of DU’s red zone for waterfowl and within a mile of Federal rest pond and 4 of the Delta’s top Duck Clubs Trophy Deer and Turkey are abundant, as well If you’ve ever hunted the Delta for Ducks, you know location is everything and this farm is in the bull’s eye ready to hunt. Call Doug Mauldin for an appointment 662-457-0714

TATE COUNTY RANCH • • • • • • • • • •

Located approximately 10 miles west of Senatobia, MS Approximately 775 acres of highly-developed pasture land The property is fenced and cross-fenced with lakes in each sectional area Two houses and three modern barns are included on this ranch Private, gated entrance and paved road running throughout length of property Excellent barns for horses or cattle Fertile soil for your hay 1251 Ranch Drive, Senatobia, MS $2500/acre Call Doug Mauldin for an appointment 662-457-0714

DMI Properties – Real Estate Broker – Danny Rice

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EVENTS

FESTIVALS, MUSIC & FUN THINGS TO DO November 1, 5-8 pm

Cleveland

November 9, 7:30 pm

Oxford

Cleveland Bites Food Festival

Jersey Boys

Downtown Cleveland

Ford Center for the Performing Arts

November 1, 6 pm

Cleveland

November 10

DAA Exhibition Opening, Adorn: Artist Made Clothing & Jewelry

Seed of Righteous (Heart of the Thankful) Show

Delta Arts Alliance Artists include Pat Brown, Dana Finmore, Kerr Grabowski, Jan Haynes, Lisa Mergen

Washington County Convention Center

November 1, 7 pm

Cleveland

Front Porch Music Series: JSCO

November 10-11

Cleveland

Patti LaBelle

Historic Downtown, Saturday 5-8 pm, Sunday 1-4 pm

Horseshoe Casino

Tunica Resorts

November 18, 11 am-3 pm November 10-11, 1-5 pm Belzoni

Ladies Night Out November 3, 9 am-2 pm

November 17

Holiday Open House

Grammy Museum Sanders Soundstage

November 2, 5-8 pm

Elvis Costello, November 19 in Memphis

Greenville

Glen Allen

Hernando

Starkville

Christmas Open House

41st Annual Hernando Christmas Open House

November 19

Hernando Courthouse Square

Elvis Costello

Memphis

Orpheum Theater

Lake Washington Antique Tractor Show

November 10

Paul Love Park Displays, vendors, arts and crafts, and children’s activities

50 Nights of Lights Tree Lighting

November 22-December 30, 6-9 pm Southaven

Historic Downtown

18th Annual Southern Lights

November 3-4

Greenville

Annual Rivertown Christmas & Community Christmas Crawl

Central Park

November 11, 1-5 pm

Yazoo City

Christmas Open House

November 23, 11 am-6:30 pm

Downtown Yazoo City

Christmas Open House

Oxford

Downtown Square

wceams.com

November 5, 7 pm

Cleveland

November 13 Cleveland

Spotlight: Hanalena

Greenwood

Agfest Festival of Farming

November 25, 1:30-5 pm

Catfish dinner, ag booths and displays, games, live music. Guest speaker Dr. Mark Keenum

Christmas Old-Fashioned Open House

November 14, 9:30-11:30 am

November 27-December 9

Vicksburg

Downtown Vicksburg

Grammy Museum Sanders Soundstage

November 8, 5-7 pm

Cleveland

Deetz Through the Veil & Holidays Unfolding Art Opening Reception

Bologna Performing Arts Center

Memphis

The Westin Jackson Whimsical masterpieces on display along with the Trustmark Ice Skating Rink, hot chocolate, treats, and more jacksonfestivaloftrees.com

Cleveland

November 29, 7 pm

Joe Bonamassa November 8, 7:30 pm

Cleveland

Orpheum Theater

Jersey Boys November 15, 7 pm

Bologna Performing Arts Center

November 8-10

Greenwood

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Cleveland

Front Porch Music Series: The Cuz Band

An Evening With Andy Childs

Grammy Museum Sanders Soundstage

Grammy Museum Sanders Soundstage

November 15-18

November 29-December 2

Holiday Open House Merchants open until 8 pm on Thursday with free trolley rides 4-7 pm and carriage rides for a fee, regular store hours Friday and Saturday.

Jackson

Festival of Trees

November 14

Fielding-Wright Art Gallery

Cleveland

A Very Electric Christmas

Grenada Christmas Open House

Grenada

Greenville

Ken Ludwig’s The Fox on the Fairway Delta Center Stage

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November 29

Greenwood

Red and Greenwood Weekend Lighting of the Courthouse 5:30 pm, Outdoor movie on courthouse lawn 6:30 pm

November 29, 7:30 pm

Southaven

Alabama in Concert Landers Center

November 29

Jackson

Holiday Charity Gala The Westin Jackson Benefiting Batson Children’s Hospital jacksonfestivaloftrees.com

November 30, 6:30 pm

Cleveland

“A Child’s Dream” Bologna Performing Arts Center

November 30, 7:30 pm

Oxford

Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker Ford Center for the Performing Arts

November 30 , 6-8 pm

Leland

Christmas on Deer Creek Luminary Walk The Thompson House

November 30

Greenwood

Roy Martin Delta Band Fest/Christmas Parade The state’s oldest and largest Christmas parade

December 1

Leland

Christmas on Deer Creek Pop Up Shops 12-5:30 pm, Handbell Choir Performance 5:45 pm, Santa arrives 6:45 pm

December 1, 10 am-1 pm

Vicksburg

Levee Street Marketplace Open House 1001 Levee Street

December 1, 9 am-3 pm

Vicksburg

Holly Days Arts & Crafts Show 1302 Adams Street

December 1-6

Southaven

DeSoto Family Theatre Presents Disney’s “Newsies” Landers Center Theatre, 2-4 pm and 7-10 pm

December 4, 7:30 pm

Cleveland

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical Bologna Performing Arts Center

December 8, 10-2 pm

Cleveland

Girl Scout Day Grammy Museum

December 7, 5:30-6:30 pm

Christmas Open House Wister Gardens

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Belzoni

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December 7, 4:30-8:30 pm

Jackson

Christmas by Candlelight Tour Downtown Jackson

December 8

Tunica Resorts

Tower of Power: 50th Anniversary Tour Horseshoe Casino

December 8-9

Jackson

Sugar Plum Fairy Tea The Westin Jackson A one of a kind tea party partnered with Ballet Mississippi jacksonfestivaloftrees.com

December 8-January 2, 5:30-10 pm

Belzoni

Winter Wonderland of Lights Wister Gardens

December 11, 5-7 pm

Jackson

Jingle & Mingle

Friday, November 30 0th

Highland Village

December 12

Memphis

Harry Connick, Jr. Orpheum Theater

December 14-16

Southaven

Sesame Street Live! Make Your Magic Landers Center, 5:30-7:30 pm, 10:30 am-12:30 pm, 2:30-4:30 pm

December 15, 3 pm & 7 pm

Southaven

Red Flags: A Stage Play

by Nadia Matthews Tunica Resorts

The Commodores Gold Strike Casino Resort

December 21

Saturday, December 11st Pop Up Shops 12:00 noon to 5:30 p.m.

Landers Center

December 15

Luminary Walk Holiday Open House at The Thompson House 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Tunica Resorts

Jewel’s Handmade Holiday Tour Horseshoe Casino

December 22- 23, 10 am-5 pm

Southaven

Repticon Reptile Show

Handbell Choir Performance e On The Rainbow Connection Briidge 5:45 p.m.

Santa Claus Arrives on Deer Creek 6:15 p.m.

Landers Center

December 22

Memphis

North Mississippi Allstars Minglewood Hall

DELTA MAGAZINE 2018

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DELTA MAGAZINE 2018

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BOOK SIGNINGS Mississippi Vegan: Recipes & Stories from a Southern Boy’s Heart Timothy Pakron November 2: Lemuria Books, Jackson, 5:30 pm

Burning Under Tom Bennitt November 7: Square Books, Oxford, 5 pm

The Dinosaur Artist Paige Williams November 13: Square Books, Oxford, 5 pm

Heavy Kiese Laymon November 14: Turnrow Books, Greenwood, 5:30 pm

Dust in the Road: Recollections of a Delta Boy Hank Burdine November 15: The Lyric, Oxford, 6 pm

Christmas By Design Marilyn Trainor Story November 15: 155 Westover Drive, Clarksdale, 11 am-4:30 pm

The BRAVO! Way Dawn Dugle, Jeff Good, Dan Blumenthal November 23: Lemuria Books, Jackson, 5:30 pm

Statement of Ownership, management, and circulation for Delta Magazine. Publication No. 022-954 as of September 1, 2018. 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, P.O. Box 117, Cleveland, MS 38732; Editor, Cindy Coopwood, P.O. Box 117, Cleveland, MS 38732.

Average No. of Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months Total no. of copies printed 10,233 Paid circulation through mail 8,075 Paid circulation through dealers and carriers, street vendors, and counter sales 611 Paid circulation by other classes of mail through the USPS (First-Class, Priorty) 40 Total paid distribution 8,726 Free distribution through mail 632 Free circulation by other classes of mail through the USPS (First-Class, Priorty) 50 Free distribution outside mail 300 Total free distribution 982 Total distribution 9,708 Total 10,233 Percent paid 89.88%

Actual No. of Copies Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date 10,000 7,721

725

50 8,496 826

50 300 1,176 9,672 10,000 87.84%

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

(Signed) Scott Coopwood, Publisher

144 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

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DELTA SEEN

Annette Olivi and Buddy Long

Sandra Avritt, Maxie Rebsamen and Mary Ferretti

Caitlyn Thompson, Laura Howell and Barbara Levingston

Drew McGahey, Pat and Morgan Gulledge

James and Leslie Warrington

Jimmy and Susie Whatley 146 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

BPAC Season Opening Reception at the Boz Scaggs Performance on August 28 in Cleveland Photos by Sandi Burt

Bob Ragan and Kitty Kossman

Tommy Worthy and Joe Knighton Woody and Grace Whites

Ed and Jan Lofton

Gramm Phillips

Todd and Sarah Hicks wtih Michael Hony

Jimmy Jones, Jerry Williams and Buzz Rebell

Joy and Jake Bellipanni

Judy and Stan McGaugh

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DELTA SEEN

Scott and Maxie Rebsamen, Kevin and Charlene Cunningham with Sug Borgognoni

Marty and Leonard Vincent

Karen and Ronny Mayers

Park and Sharon Neff, Becky and John Denton

Carrie Jarrett, Leslie and James Warrington and Will Jarrett

Scott Rebsamen with Kevin and Charlene Cunningham

Bob Faulkner, Jimmy McClellan, Melanie and Al Williams

Perry and Docia England

Libby and Terry Carlson

Debra Carr, Pam Holmes, Coleen O’Brien and Kristen Williams DELTA MAGAZINE 2018

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DELTA SEEN

Music on the Grand Lawn at the Cutrer Mansion on September 20 Photos by Staci Lewis

DSU Pig Pickin’ in Cleveland on September 21 Photos by Blake Crocker

Shauna Meyers and Fran Mullens

Jennifer and Sarah Levingston

Gayla Marley and Hilda Clark

Anne Barnett, Martha Jane Howell, Patsy Maclin and Nancy Vincent

Ginger Cooke, Wendi Litton, Molly Cooke

Pat and Chanda Peay, Fran and Tom Ross

Fredean and Charles Langford Matt Nokes and Paul Pearson

Pete and Margaret Johnson

Aimee Robinette, Abbey Atwill, Debra Cox Ann Barton Jackson and Jane Ellen Warlick and Keith Fulcher

Molly Shivers, Haley Huerta Kelly and Blair Ladner 148 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

Sara Beth and Lindsey Anna Pardue

Sarah Hughes and Frank McKenna

Jim Taylor, Larry Bradshaw, Dan Barton, Jimmy Ferguson and Dan Gass

Spence Abraham, Danny Abraham, Madison Hays, Tristan Steadman, Bart Abraham, Zach Flint, Lacarius Acoff and Verlena Lloyd

Marilyn Alford

Winn House and Abby Bond

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DELTA SEEN

United Way of Leflore County Event at the Greenwood Country Club on September 27 Photos by Johnny Jennings

C. J. Coleman, Freda Maxey, Courtney Kimmel and Deborah Harris

Kim Williams and Kornella McMorris

Anthony and Shannon Ola

David and Veronica Pritchard

Ronnie and Samaria Stevenson

Kay Hull, Jane Moss, Jim and Karla Bowen

Ewin and Claudia Henson with Charlotte and Guy Ray

Lisa Cookston, Judy Nail and Tim Stanciel

Sydney Anne and Cale Ainsworth with Shirley McNeer

Jimmy and Annie Roby

Joshua Gregory and Lasa Bennett

Merritt Reichle and Katie Mills

Rachael Hirsch Goldberg and Dr. Richard Goldberg

Kim Pillow and Emmett Chassaniol

Haley Holbrook and Cynthia Stanciel DELTA MAGAZINE 2018

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DELTA SEEN

Becky Nowell and Jamie Jacks

Bolivar Medical Center Foundation at Delta Meat Market in Cleveland on October 4

Mark Hargett and Dr. Derek Miles

Photos by Sandi Burt

Young Ideas 45th Anniversary Celebration in Indianola on October 4 Photos by Johnny Jennings

Sonya and Mike Ruff

Big T and Barry Bays

Beverly Williams and Rob Marshall Becky Nowell, Ann Margaret Mullins and Nancy LaForge

Charlotte Russell, Alan Silverblatt, Rebecca Barrett and Myra Myers

Toshe Gardner and Laura Gresham

Tyla Rash, Teresa Rash and Billy Nowell

Bobbie Jean Hill, Sarah Ann Harris Janice Robertson, Alan Silverblatt and Grace Fleming and Leanne Silverblatt

Mary Kay McDowell, Helen Harris Durst and Beth Harris

Amanda Snell, Barrett Snell and Sam Silverblatt 150 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

Sharon Wade, Leanne Silverblatt and Dorothy Baker

Ken Wood, Janice Robertson, Alan Silverblatt, Grace Fleming and Carol Wood

Leigh Ann Reynolds, Nevonnia Hays and Sandra Vance Susan Wilson, Kate Simmons, Simmons and Cindy Baird

Jessica

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Hank Burdine Book Signing at Lagniappe in Greenville on October 9

DELTA SEEN

Julia Cass, Bo Weevil Law, III and Brucie Mintz

Frank Howell, Cindy Coopwood and Kenneth L. Gines

The author signing books

Hank, Marilyn Alford, Ben Walker and Bill Walker

Hank Burdine with daughter Jane Alden Dewhirst

Sherry Smythe, Donna Hilburn, Angie Zepponi and Kent Hilburn

Hank with his biggest fan, granddaughter Jane Rivers Dewhirst

John Montfort Jones and Paden Dawkins

Hank with Emmitt Goddrich

Ken Hilburn, Sherry Smythe and Charlotte Baby Doe and Little Doe speaking with Hank about his book Carter Smythe

Table setting from luncheon at Lagniappe DELTA MAGAZINE 2018

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Thefinalword Christmas Memories rowing up in Greenwood at mid-century, Christmas was a magical, memorable time, packed with local and family traditions, some of which endure to this day. I’ve lived in other places for much of my adult life and found that every town has its own holiday atmosphere, but there’s just always been an extra level of joy in the Delta, perhaps a reflection of the sense of accomplishment when the hard labors of summer and fall have finally slowed down.

The first “sign of the season” downtown was the rumbling of Greenwood utilities’ trucks along Howard Street, their buckets brimming with long lines of colorful bulbs and plastic pole decorations. No one seemed to mind the blocked parking spaces or the traffic jams, as this inconvenience meant that Delta Band Festival was just over the horizon.

My newspaper reporter mother, Sara Criss, always seemed to have the inside scoop on which night those lights would be tested, and you could find our old station wagon parked by the Red Cross office, a perfect vantage point to see every single bulb burst into life with one glorious flip of a switch. Then they went dark again, silently waiting for that miraculous “Second Friday after Thanksgiving,” the day it never rained and Greenwood filled up with thousands of band members and visitors.

Woolworth’s and Sterling’s aisles were packed with the latest dolls and games, but children of today would be stunned at how limited the local toy selection was in those pre-Walmart, pre-Amazon days. That’s where the Sears catalogue came into play. My mother would meet the mailman halfway down the sidewalk every day in early November, hoping he would pull the thick book from his bag. When he finally did, her inner eight-year-old would take over, turning down pages and propelling her into the carpool line at our school, just bursting with joy at the chance to help us make our lists.

You could tell by the look on her face that

G

Mary Carol Miller is a Greenwood native and the author of thirteen books on Mississippi’s historic architecture, including the Greenwood: Mississippi Memories series. She practices medicine in Greenwood and regularly takes in stray dogs who find her at her cabin in West, Mississippi.

152 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

BY MARY CAROL MILLER

Christmas season had arrived and it was “geton-board-or-get-out-of-the-way” for the next few weeks on East Adams Avenue.

Thanksgiving was an afterthought at our house, formally observed only if it was our year to host my grandmother. Sara was not dealing with turkey and dressing when there were dozens of delights involving Crisco and sugar to be created for the upcoming weeks.

The fourth Thursday in November, in her mind, was the jumping off point to Friday’s sales, when our already overflowing boxes of Christmas decorations expanded even further and her attention turned to “The Tree.”

Lord have mercy, “The Tree.” Every year, some poor trucker from Oregon or Minnesota drove halfway across America with a load of Scotch pines or firs, pulling his big rig exhaustedly into the Kroger parking lot on George Street late on an autumn afternoon. He probably needed a bathroom break or a cup of coffee, but first he had to deal with Sara. The back door of the truck was cranked open and one tree after another brought a frown and a head shake. Too short.

Too tall. Too scraggly.

Finally the fullest, greenest, most hopeful specimen emerged. Within minutes, Kroger had a check, the beast was tied on top of the Plymouth, and off it went to our back porch, where my resourceful father kept it alive, somehow, for a month. He vacuumed up the dead needles in the living room until the massive family Christmas Eve party was over and Santa had slithered down our fireplace (which never had a chimney, but that was just part of the magic).

In the midst of all the Christmas morning commotion, he had one unchanging rule: “The Tree” would be defrocked, unplugged and hauled to the ditch before lunch. We ate leftovers and moved decorations back up to the attic like a line of industrious ants, knowing that next year would be just as much fun. The best memories are Delta memories. DM

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