August 2014

AUGUST 2014

New Sports Facilities

After-School Programs Healthy, Easy Snacks

plus

Mindfulness at Magnolia Grove

BACK TO SCHOOL FAMILY COMFORT IN YOUR NEW 2015 TAHOE VISIT US ONLINE OR CALL US AT 662.234.2311 OR 800.797.2311 TO SCHEDULE A TEST DRIVE TODAY PARTS & SERVICE NOW OPEN SATURDAYS!

NEW DEALERSHIP LOCATION ON HWY 6 WEST • 100 NORTH THACKER LOOP, OXFORD, MS 38655

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August 2014 | INVITATION OXFORD

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INVITATION OXFORD | August 2014

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LEGACY R EALT Y

#1 Team in Oxford

Oxford, Mississippi

...The place you want to be!

Mark C. Cleary (713) 303-8924

$350,000 4 Bedroom/4.5 Bath

Markccleary@gmail.com

Blake Cannon (662) 380-7144

blake@oxfordvip.com

Phases 1, 2 & 3 SOLD OUT

Brand new. A stroll to the square.

Finishes include granite slab counters, wood floors, crown molding, stainless steel appliances and a metal roof. 3 or 4 Bedroom, 3.5 Bathrooms. Come pick your lot and choose your finishes today!

•Large Private Courtyards •Granite Slab Throughout •Stainless Steel Appliance Package •Wet Bar & Fireplace

Plan #211

•2 Car Attached Garage •Wood Floors •Walk to Ole Miss Campus •Walk-in Closets

Oxford’s Newest Family Development In Town! $299,000-$425,000 4 acre park, bike/walk path to the square, close knit community association & a community swimming pool coming!

Brand new construction!

Come check out these private community lake lots.

Features include granite counter tops in kitchen and bath, stainless steel appliances, hand scraped floors, fireplace, crown molding, walk-in closets, and two car garages. Three lots to choose from with multiple floor plans for you to customize.

Experience the beauty and serenity of Tuscan Hills, just 5 minutes from downtown Oxford!

Steeplechase is back! $349,000 - $1.5million++ All lots at Least 1.5 acres. Come pick your lot & floor plan today or build a custom home. Strict architecture covenants and community lake.

71 CR 141

1416 Van Buren

230 CR 313

4003 ROBISON ROAD

Northpointe

Grand Oaks

•5BR/4.5 Bath •Inground saltwater pool •White oak hardwood floors

• On Square • Viking Kitchen • Two Car Garage

• 3BR/2.5 Bath •1.2 acres off Clear Creek Rd. •Large bonus room

• 3BR/3Baths & guest house • 72 acres w/ 3 ponds • Heart pine floors & 5 fireplaces

• 2650 sq ft/3 Bed 2.5 Bath • Bonus room and office • Swimming pool

• 6500 sq ft •1.5 acre double lot Grand Oaks • Movie theater

$709,000

$599,000

LEGACY R EALT Y

$259,900

$559,900

$324,900

Search the entire Oxford Market at www.MarkClearyOxford.com and www.OxfordVip.com 662.234.5621 1923 University Ave Oxford, MS 38655 • Each office independently owned and operated.

$899,000

BLUFF CITY

August 2014 | INVITATION OXFORD

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Settle into Summer in a new home!

Oxford Condominiums

G N I D N E P 408 Andalusia

908 Highpointe

4Bed/3.5Bath Attention to all details!

This charming home has everything you want with maintenance-free living.

414 Northpointe Lake Drive 4 Bed/3.5 Bath Look no further!

This gorgeous home has custom features everywhere you look.

4Bed/4Bath Great deal in Highpointe!

This condo is in great condition and features 3 bedrooms with 3 baths.

stonebridge

3Bed/2Bath Such a well planned community of carefree living. Units are selling as quickly as they are built.

612 Centerpointe

3700 Lyles

4Bed/4.5Bath Grand Oaks Beautiful Craftsman style 5Bed/4.5Bath home in popular Northpointe “French flare with all the extras!

Subdivision. Inviting Gorgeous pool for the summer’s fireplace with exposed brick heat. Call today.” and open entertaining plan.

206 Glenwood Cove

11 CR 3065

3CR 3055

801 Brentwood Lane

Taylor 3Bed/2Bath Quaint charm of years gone by.

3Bed/2Bath Open plan with wonderful pool.

4Bed/3Bath Large family home with beautiful outdoor entertaining space.

So private in the great neighborhood of Woodland Hills! Southern styled exterior invites you to a wonderful floorplan inside!

Wellsgate 709 Quiet Valley Cove

21023 Will’s Trace

Grand newly constructed home on one of the best streets in Wellsgate!

18007 Country wood Cove Splendid home on a quiet cul-de-sac in Wellsgate!

This home has a pool, beautiful kitchen!

Everything you want!

2026 Mallard Pointe 4Bed/4.5 Bath Custom estate home with spectacular view of the lake.

21008 Will’s Trace Being built by Montgomery Construction on popular Will’s Trace.

Room for your family to spread out in this wonderful home.

Fresh paint inside – ready to move in. Wonderful pool out back for summer enjoyment.

21004 Will’s Trace Timeless French look on popular Will’s Trace.

761 Nottingham Drive

810 Brentwood Cove

Picture perfect in Notting Hill! This home has a terrific plan, well cared for with many upgrades and backs up to the creek, offering privacy.

Mature Crepe Myrtles line the entrance to this private estate home complete with a pool!

1605 Jackson Ave #4

236 St. Andrews Circle

4 Bed/3.5 Bath Just a minutes’ walk to the SQUARE!!

You have waited for this address! Absolutely wonderful neighborhood!

Jamey Leggitt 662-832-7620

Visit jameyleggitt.com jamey@kessingerrealestate.com

August 2014 | INVITATION OXFORD

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Jones at hom e

Furniture, Gifts, and Accessories 8

INVITATION OXFORD | August 2014

August 2014 | INVITATION OXFORD

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Junior Auxilliary

Children

of Oxford Years of Service

of Oxford & Lafayette County

PRESENTS THE

3RD ANNUAL

Bash to Benefit F R I DAY S E P T 1 9 T H 7:30PM T H E LY R I C $50 / PERSON CASUAL DRESS

MUSIC: ALMOST FAMOUS

F O O D : PA R T Y WA I T I N G TO H A P P E N AUCTION • WINE PULL

ALL PROCEEDS SUPPORT

T H E C H I L D R E N O F OX F O R D / L A FAY E T T E C O U N T Y F O R M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N P L E A S E C A L L 6 6 2 . 2 0 2 . 6 3 9 4

C A R E TO DAY • C H A R AC T E R TO M O R R O W 10

INVITATION OXFORD | August 2014

Brighton Village

3BR/3.5BA-1725 S.F. and 2BR/2.5BA-1325 S.F. PLANS STARTING IN THE $150’S. HARDWOOD/GRANITE THROUGHOUT/CUSTOM CABINETS/ STAINLESS APPLIANCES/POOL-CLOSE TO CAMPUS!

ROSEMONT

4BR/3.5BA PLANS ON THE GOLF COURSE STARTING IN THE $350’S. SOME OF THE AMENITIES INCLUDE HUGE KITCHENS/WET BAR/ INDOOR OUTDOOR FIREPLACE WITH A COVERED PATIO/ DECORATIVE BOX BEAMS/BRICK ACCENT WALL/PINE CEILING IN THE KITCHEN/HUGE MASTER BATH

Augusta Place

The Lakes

BRAND NEW LAKE FRONT HOMES!!

4BR/3.5BA WITH OVER 2400 SQ FT STARTING AT $224,750 SOME OF THE AMENITIES INCLUDE: 10FT CEILINGS & 8FT DOORS/GRANITE COUNTER TOPS/STAINLESS APPLIANCES/ HARDWOOD FLOORS/COVERED PATIO!

BRAND NEW FROM THE GROUND UP! 3BR/3BA PLANS STARTING AT $267,500. LIVE RIGHT ON THE JIM FAZIO-DESIGNED GOLF COURSE AT THE COUNTRY CLUB OF OXFORD! 10 FT CEILINGS/OVER SIZED 1-CAR GARAGE/GAS FIREPLACE/GRANITE TOPS/STAINLESS APPLIANCES/2 BALCONIES OR PATIOS!

Matt McGraw

662-801-5170 matt@kessingerrealestate.com www.condosinoxford.com

August 2014 | INVITATION OXFORD

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IN THIS ISSUE AUGUST 2014

AUGUST 2014

New Sports Facilities

ABOUT THE COVER At press time, the 12 new John Leslie tennis courts were still under construction. They are slated to open by Aug. 6. The cover was photographed at Avent Park. See story on page 35 for more details.

After-School Programs Healthy, Easy Snacks

plus

Mindfulness at Magnolia Grove

PHOTOGRAPHED BY JOE WORTHEM

FEATURES 44 Smart Snacks When children come home hungry after a long day at school, treat them to these simple, healthful and creative snacks.

64 State of Mind Magnolia Grove Meditation Practice Center, a Buddhist monastery and retreat, helps visitors unplug, slow down and simply breathe.

83 A Room of Her Own Children’s book author Sarah Frances Hardy shares what she loves about her creative space.

96 Basic Training After-school enrichment programs help young students learn fundamental skills necessary for academic success.

EVENTS 26 28 31 49 52 57 60 62 76 78 80 88 90 92

Girls Art Show Catfish Grabbling Tournament Fourth of July Parade Juneteenth Celebration Holli’s Sweet Tooth GumBall Firecracker Bash Two Man Scramble Hill Country Picnic Sandlot Baseball Game Movies and Music in the Park NAACP Program Rebels Return to Swayze Run in the Sun 5K Summer Sunset Series

ANNOUNCEMENTS

35 Play Ball!

New and expanding facilities, including FNC Park’s indoor training space, more John Leslie tennis courts and the Oxford-Lafayette Sportsplex, help attract more teams and tournaments to town and make it easier for young athletes to get in the game.

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INVITATION OXFORD | August 2014

20 Dillard & Walker 23 Sherman & Coleman

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5K RUN/WALK AUGUST 23RD 8:00 a.m.

90 DEPARTMENTS 16 18 73 74 105 110 112

Letter From the Publisher What’s Happening New Oxford School Hours In Season: Watermelon Out and About Pets of the Month I Am Oxford: Sunny Young

EARLY REGISTRATION: July 5th - August 15th: $35.00 per person OR $18.00 per child (Up to 14) After August 15th: Prices increase to $40 per adults and $20 per child

100% Proceeds to benefit the Mississippi Alzheimer’s Association Register online: www.racesonline.com/events/colorinvasionoxford Registration available on race day beginning at 7:00a.m. at Midtown Shopping Center

ALL WHITE ATTIRE ENCOURAGED!!

August 2014 | INVITATION OXFORD

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t r y a p p l at terZ s ’ y b x a Z K off your game par ®

Kic

™

ty

repea t Day is septem ber 30 in oxf ord an d octobe r 29 in batesv ille.

Get your party started with Zaxby’s Party Platterz. From Chicken Fingerz and Wings to Zalads® and Sides, serving Zaxby’s at your next game party will really give your guests something to cheer about.

Order yours today!

Prices may vary by location. Each restaurant independently owned and operated. © 2014 Zaxby’s Franchising, Inc. “Zaxby’s,” “Zalads” and “Party Platterz” are trademarks of Zaxby’s Franchising, Inc.

Summer

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INVITATION OXFORD | August 2014

101 Medical Center Dr. • Batesville 662.561.0338 2574 W. Jackson Ave. • Oxford 662.234.1024

Introducing BEAUTY • SPOT

A n ew sa lo n w it h a n

o ld s o u t h e r n c h a r m !

2704 West Oxford loop suite 113 • Oxford, MS 234-1844 • (across from The Barn)

August 2014 | INVITATION OXFORD

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the publisher

LETTER FROM

PUBLISHER Rachel Malone West EDITOR Phil West DIRECTOR OF ADVERTISING Cindy Semmes MANAGING EDITOR Sonia Thompson ASSOCIATE MANAGING EDITOR Emily Welly EDITORIAL DESIGN Emily R. Suber, Hallie M. Thomas STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Joe Worthem ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS Alise M. Emerson, Sheena Hagemann, Leigh Lowery, Lynn McElreath, Mary Moreton, Moni Simpson, Reed Toms AD DESIGN Rebecca Bailey, Zach Fields, Paul Gandy CONTRIBUTORS Caitlin Adams, Lena Anderson, Leslie Brooks, Meaghin Burke, Julie Cantrell, Melanie Crownover, Paul Davis, Elizabeth Evans, Caroline Beffa Franks, Sarah Frances Hardy, Kimme Hargrove, Ann-Marie Herod, Megan Marascalco, Ann-Marie Wyatt

G

oing back to school is an exciting time for families and children. It’s that time of the year when we anticipate success, learning ABC’s, getting good grades, perfect attendance, winning a championship or making an all-state choir or band.

Students set goals and strive for them.

I sometimes need the mindset of a student headed back to school: planning for and anticipating success, making new friends and spending time with old ones. I often get into a rut of the same routine every day, and I fail to spend time learning new things.

Invitation Oxford spotlights some great people and programs that help students succeed. One of those is Leap Frog, a tutoring and mentoring program for children that serves more than 140 children in first, second and third grades. These children are not reading on grade level when they arrive. But after nine months of one-on-one tutoring and study time with volunteers, more than 75 percent of the children who participate in the program are reading on or above grade level.

Talk about setting goals and meeting them.

And then there are people like Sarah Frances Hardy, who is a mother and author. She writes and illustrates children’s books from her small creative space in her home. Her most recent book, Paint Me!, is a great read for children when they have a few minutes away from school and homework. Learn more about her work and her passion on page 83.

This month we salute teachers, students and parents.

OFFICE MANAGER Hollie Hilliard COPY EDITORS Linda Jansen, Kate Johnson DISTRIBUTION Donald Courtney, Brian Hilliard ADVERTISING INFORMATION (662) 701-8070 ads@invitationoxford.com MAIN OFFICE (662) 234-4008 To subscribe to one year (10 issues) of Invitation Oxford, send payment of $50 to: P.O. Box 776, Oxford, MS 38655 or visit invitationoxford.com to pay online.

To request a photographer at your event, to obtain a copy of an event photo or to purchase an announcement, email Emily at emilysuber.invitationoxford@gmail.com.

PLEASE RECYCLE THIS MAGAZINE

RACHEL M. WEST, PUBLISHER

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INVITATION OXFORD | August 2014

Serving Women’s Healthcare Needs

Gregory O. Patton, M.D.

Julie G. Harper, M.D.

M. Glenn Hunt, M.D.

• DaVinci Robotic Surgery • Wellness Visits • Pregnancy Care • 3D/4D Ultrasounds • Bladder Function Testing • Endometrial Ablation & Essure Permanent Sterilization

Contact us for an appointment.

1204 Medical Park Drive • Oxford, MS • 662.236.5717 • www.oxfordobgyn.com August 2014 | INVITATION OXFORD

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what’s happening August

A sampling of important, fun and interesting events in our area. For more events, visit facebook.com/invitationoxford.

Doors of Hope Transition Ministries presents

A Summer Bounty

AUGUST 9

SUMMER FESTIVALS August 1-2

Saturday, August 9, 2014

ART, MUSIC, FOOD, FUNDRAISERS AND MORE

10:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Overby Center, University of Mississippi in Oxford

featuring demonstrations by City Grocery Restaurant Group corporate chef Vishwesh Bhatt Cake designer Jeff Taylor of Sweet T’s Bakery Floral designer Natalie Hughes of Mimosa Flowers, Gifts & Gourmet Portrait and still life painter Jason Bouldin with an auction conducted by Norm Easterbrook, master of ceremonies first festival of thehomeless event families is a sampling ofCounty the to raise fundsitsforkind, assisting in Lafayette

August 1-2

August 15

Water Valley Watermelon Carnival

Fringe Festival, The Art-er Limits

A Mighty Voice

The 45th-annual Watermelon Carnival includes art booths, a street dance, a 5K race, presentation of the Watermelon Queen, a barbecue cook-off contest and other entertainment.

Old City Park, Water Valley, Miss.

The arts and includes slamform poetry To order film ticketsscreenings, ($55.00 each) complete on backand of thisballet. card, visit www.brownpapertickets.com and type “A Summer Bounty” on events line, Some of the more 80 events willorbe others will e-mailthan doorsofhope@bellsouth.net, callfree, 662-234-1100. partner of the United Way of Oxford* require a $5 ticket,*Program and a few are individually priced, such as various tastings offered by local restaurants. oxfordfringefest.com

A night of music by the Kudzu Kings and food by chef Dan Latham to benefit the Thisbe and Noah Scott Foundation, which promotes research, awareness and support for families dealing with pediatric neuromuscular diseases.

7:30-10 p.m., the Library Sports Bar

August 2 Beats, Bikers & Barbecue Cook-Off & Kudzu Festival

August 5

The Holly Springs Main Street Chamber festival features music, arts, crafts, children’s activities and a barbecue competition.

Holly Springs, Miss.

Kid’s Shopping/Cooking at Oxford City Market with Sunny Young, director of Good Food for Oxford Schools. eatingoxford.com

August 9 Oxford Downtown Council Summerfest Balloon artists, face painting, cotton candy, snow cones and more.

10 a.m.-2 p.m., Courthouse lawn 2-3:30 p.m., live music on the Courthouse lawn facebook.com/oxforddowntowncouncil

August 9 Folk Art on the River Second Saturdays Folk Art on the River combines a folk art market, a farmers’ market and live bluegrass on the banks of the Tallahatchie River.

New Albany, Miss. visitnewalbany.com

Eating Oxford Institute: Culinary Class

August 9 A Summer Bounty Doors of Hope Transition Ministries hosts “A Summer Bounty,” which features demonstrations by City Grocery Restaurant Group chef Vishwesh Bhatt, cake designer Jeff Taylor of Sweet T’s Bakery, floral designer Natalie Hughes of Mimosa Flowers and Gifts and portrait artist Jason Bouldin with an auction conducted by Norm Easterbrook. The event raises funds for assisting homeless families in Lafayette County. Tickets $55.

10 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Overby Center doorsofhope@bellsouth.net or 662-234-1100

August 11-15 Imaging the Interior: A Journal Retreat Create a personal image journal while exploring watercolor, collage, monotype, expressive text and handaltered photos. Class taught by Constance Pierce.

1:30-5:30 p.m., Oxford Treehouse Gallery oxfordtreehousegallery.com or constancemarie777@gmail.com

August 18 T-Pain Concert T-Pain’s “Drankin Patna Tour” concert, featuring Snootie Wild and Bando Jonez.

Doors open at 8 p.m., the Lyric, thelyricoxford.com

August 23 Back to School Health Fair Baptist Memorial Hospital-North Mississippi hosts “Under the Sea,” a back-to-school health fair for infants to children 12 years old.

9 a.m.-noon, Oxford Conference Center baptistonline.org/north-mississippi/healthfair or 662-232-8109

August 26 Oxford Art Crawl Monthly local art crawl. Locations include the Powerhouse, Southside Art Gallery, University of Mississippi Museum and Gallery 130 in Meek Hall. Transportation between stops is provided by the Double Decker bus.

Start at any location and hop on the Double Decker to get to the next location.

5-6 p.m., pre-crawl at University of Mississippi Museum 6-8 p.m., Art Crawl, oxfordarts.com

August 26 UM Museum Artist’s Reception A Light Passage by Lee Renninger opening date and artist’s reception.

Reception, 6-8 p.m., UM Museum

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INVITATION OXFORD | August 2014

SPORTS August 1

Ole Miss Quarterback Club Kickoff Banquet The Ole Miss Quarterback Club, a University of Mississippi football booster program, gathers for its annual kickoff banquet. Tickets $25. Open to Quarterback Club members only.

5:30 p.m., Manning Center

August 1 CF Golf Classic A golf tournament benefiting the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation-Mississippi Chapter, held at the Country Club of Oxford.

11:30 a.m. lunch 1 p.m. shotgun start

August 23 Color Invasion Oxford 5K Run/Walk A 5K color run/walk to benefit the Mississippi Alzheimer’s Association.

8 a.m., Mid-Town Shopping Center racesonline.com/events/colorinvasionoxford

August 28 Ole Miss vs. Boise State The first University of Mississippi football game of the season.

7 p.m., Georgia Dome, Atlanta

August 2014 | INVITATION OXFORD

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RACHEL ALEXANDRIA DILLARD

&

achel Alexandria Dillard and Charles Andrew Walker were united in marriage at 6 p.m. on Feb. 1, 2014, at First Baptist Church in Greenwood, Miss. The Rev. Joe Pate performed the double ring ceremony.

The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Tom Dillard of Greenwood.

She is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Wilson Dillard of Itta Bena, Miss., Mr. and Mrs. Robert Givens of Greenwood, and Mrs. Sam Spencer and the late Mr. Sam Spencer of Ozark, Mo. The groom is the son of Ms. Anne Cole of Madison and Mr. Don Walker of Oxford. He is the grandson of the late Mr. and Mrs. James Williams of Nashville, Tenn., and Mr. and Mrs. “Sonny” Walker of Ripley, Tenn.

Ceremony music was provided by pianist Kevin McKelvy, uncle of the bride, violinist Morgan Pettigrew, and vocalists Valerie Lake and Mary Kathryn Carroll. The couple exchanged traditional vows under a flower-adorned cross made by the groom.

Escorted by her father, the bride wore a designer ivory gown with tulle overlaying beaded Alencon lace appliques and a sweetheart neckline. The bride’s ivory fingertip-length veil with scalloped lace trim, custom made by Sara Gabriel, was her something borrowed, worn by her sister and matron of honor. Her bouquet of white roses, blush Cabbage roses, hydrangeas, and hypericum berries was wrapped in her great-great grandmother’s handkerchief monogrammed in blue, for her something old and blue.

The bride’s sister, Katie Busching, served as the matron of honor. The bridesmaids were Ann Regan Bilbo, Mary Kathryn Carroll, Dannah Conway, Haley Howell, Taylor Kane, Alyssa Klein, Alex Pence, Rebecca Proctor, Kelsie Tribble, Faye Walter, and Morgan Walter. Bridesmaids wore blush silk chiffon one-shoulder gowns and carried smaller versions of the bride’s bouquet.

Serving as best man was Don Walker, father of the groom. Groomsmen were Brett Armstrong, Ty Armstrong, Justin Cox, Thomas Dillard, brother of the bride, Garrett Guynes, Jeff Mahony, Robbie Starr, Jimmy Stringer and J.B. Swanson.

Following the ceremony, the bride’s parents hosted a reception at the Episcopal Church of the Nativity where the guests dined on a Southern buffet and danced the night away to the music of High Frequency. The bride’s elegant cake was centered in the library on an antique table draped by a tablecloth of champagne sequins and surrounded by bouquets of fresh flowers and candles. The delicious almond flavored cake was embellished with the couples’ monogram and roses and hydrangeas.

The groom’s cake was red-velvet, in the shape of a powder blue Ole Miss football helmet, complete with a facemask. It was made by Sweet T’s Bakery and was a favorite of the guests.

As the night began to wind down, red pompoms were handed out for a Hotty Toddy cheer on the dance floor before the couple’s grand exit. The bride and groom departed the reception amidst red and blue Ole Miss confetti shooters as they walked down historic Howard Street to the Alluvian Hotel.

After honeymooning in Jamaica, the couple resides in Oxford, where she is a labor and delivery nurse and he is an engineer at Batesville Casket Company.

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INVITATION OXFORD | August 2014

CHARLES ANDREW WALKER

PHOTOGRAPHED BY B. MO FOTO

August 2014 | INVITATION OXFORD

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INVITATION OXFORD | August 2014

&

ROBERT KENNETH COLEMAN II

PHOTOGRAPHED BY DANNY K PHOTOGRAPHY

MOLLY CLAIRE SHERMAN

olly Claire Sherman and Robert Kenneth Coleman II were united in marriage at six o’clock on the evening of Sept. 28, 2013, at St. John’s Catholic Church in Oxford, Miss. The ceremony was officiated by Father Joe Tonos of Greenville, Miss.

The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Anthony Sherman of Oxford. She is the granddaughter of Mrs. Rosalea Sherman and the late Charles David Sherman Sr. of Greenville and the late Earline Clairice and Charles Edward Roberts of Tremont, Miss.

The groom is the son of the Hon. and Mrs. Robert Willie Coleman II of Oxford and the grandson of Judge and Mrs. Robert Kenneth Coleman of New Albany, Miss., and Mrs. Hazel Stovall and the late Richard Maier Stovall Sr. of Okolona, Miss.

Escorted by her father, the bride wore a designer satin gown covered with lace and pearls that featured a chapel-length train with a two-tiered, chapel-length veil. Her bracelet was a double strand of pearls that belonged to her grandmother. Complementing the bride’s ensemble was a hand-tied bouquet of white hydrangeas and white garden roses wrapped with a monogrammed handkerchief.

Bridesmaids wore long, pewter-colored dresses and carried bouquets of white hydrangeas and pink garden roses.

Shelby Sherman, sister of the bride, served as maid of honor. Laura

Leigh Howell, Marian Griggs and Virginia Coleman, sisters of the groom, served as bridesmaids, along with Ashley Lawrence, Margaret Goodwyn Bankston, Keely Hamilton, Lindsey Parker and Kasey Hagood.

Rob Coleman, father of the groom, served as best man. Groomsmen were William Coleman and Richard Coleman, brothers of the groom; Mark McClinton; Zachary Blackburn; Blake Wilson; John Cavett; Eric Yates; George Schaff; and Joe Spears. Ushers included Taylor Maddux, Blake Belcher, Amere Hooshmand, Marcus Wilson and Timothy Wilson.

Graham and Olivia Cate Sherman, cousins of the bride, served as flower girls, and Shelby Stovall, cousin of the groom, served as the ring bearer.

Following the ceremony, the bride’s parents hosted a reception at the Barksdale-Isom House, where guests enjoyed music by the DMP Band and food and drink catered by My Michelle’s, along with Lebanese dishes of kibbeh and grape leaves prepared by the Sherman family in honor of their family history. The bride’s parents, owners of Oxford’s famous Sno Biz Treat Shoppe, also served wedding cake-flavored sno balls alongside the bride’s and groom’s cakes. Photographs were taken by Danny Klimetz.

On the eve of the wedding, the groom’s parents honored the couple with a rehearsal dinner at the Ravine.

The bride and groom honeymooned in the Dominican Republic.

August 2014 | INVITATION OXFORD

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265 N. Lamar, Suite Q • 662.236 265 N. Lamar, Suite Q • 662.236.9707

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INVITATION OXFORD | August 2014

August 2014 | INVITATION OXFORD

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events Girls Art Show View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationoxford.

Local artists Sarah Gardner, Claire Whitehurst, Jenny Barnes and Hannah McCormick hosted an art show June 7 at Whitehurst’s home. The artists displayed and sold their art, and a silent auction was held.

Claire Whitehurst, Sarah Gardner, Hannah McCormick and Jenny Barnes

Trey Bagwell, Itsuka Takamune and Laura Alexander

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INVITATION OXFORD | August 2014

Greg Park and Laura Beth Walker

Kristen and Seth Wilson

Niki and Andrew Coffman

photographed by Paul Gandy

Jay Jensen and Leigh Bondurant

Sauce and Ross Turner, Stacy Kathert, Claire Whitehurst and Brad Luke

Meghan Litten, Colin Sneed and Landon Boyte

Mary and Zaiden Aquino

Andrew Whitehurst, Jay Jensen and Ryan Pierce

Chris Butts and Holly Wigman

Beth Fulmer and Win Graham

Anna Barrett, Blakely Burns and Chesney Petkovsek

August 2014 | INVITATION OXFORD

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events Catfish Grabbling Tournament View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationoxford.

A catfish grabbling tournament was held June 14 at Engineer’s Point on Sardis Lake. Grabbling is the act of catching catfish with bare hands. The tournament benefited the Wounded Warriors Project.

Bobby and Mabry Mann, Jason Hand, Ethan Mann, Brooke Casey and Jessica Mann with Thomas, Pamela and Julie Hand

Tony Vaughn and Brion Whitten

Kori, Jayden and Jerry Gunn with Keith Henley

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INVITATION OXFORD | August 2014

James and Kenny Houston

llene Houston and Penny Allgood with Kelly and Brooks Whitten

Chelsea Malone, April Ray and Kim Jackson

Natalie, Luke, Tim, Skylar, Brooks and Levi Hamm

photographed by Joe Worthem

Greg Fillyaw, Bill Smith and Jamey Allen

Proud sponsors of miss oxford USA & miss teen oxford USA 317 Heritage Drive, • Oxford, MS 38655 • 662-234-0090 www.sosoxford.com • info@sosoxford.com • www.facebook.com/suthernoasisspa • LMT#2068

Thomas Scott, Brian Yarbrough and Chad Smith

Will Palmertree and Adrian McCammon

August 2014 | INVITATION OXFORD

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MARITIME & SEAFOOD INDUSTRY MUSEUM

A Historic Revival

Opening August 2, 2014 • Grand Hall – Nydia Exhibit • Wooden Boat Gallery • Boat Building Gallery • Commercial Fishing Gallery • Hurricane Gallery • Art Exhibit Gallery • Environmental Gallery • Library and Archives • Catering Kitchen & Classrooms

Explore 300 years of history, culture and heritage, or take a step back in time and sail upon one of our 65’ Biloxi schooners.

Take a tour of our magnificent Museum, home again at the gateway to Biloxi. www.maritimemuseum.org • 228-435-6320 • 115 1st Street • Biloxi, Mississippi Schooner and Pier photo courtesy of Alex North.

The preservation of the past - the promise of the future.

FURNISHINGS

check us out on instagram and facebook to be the first to know about new arrivals and secret sales!

Your complete source for outdoor funiture and accessories. New shipments arriving daily.

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INVITATION OXFORD | August 2014

photographed by Ann-Marie Herod

events Fourth of July Parade

CONTINUED ON PAGE 32

View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationoxford.

The Lafayette-Oxford-University Fourth of July children’s parade was held on the Square. Other Independence Day activities included the Stars and Stripes Classic 5K run, children’s activities in the Grove, live music and fireworks over Oxford-University Stadium.

Ivorie, Tanice and Ebony Upshaw

The Wilkerson and Todd families

Mamie Currence, Leigh Anne Martin and Emma York

Jace, Jason, Lauren and Laina Lawson

Barron and Brett Rosson

Will, Lauren and Mary-Grace Lafferty

Elizabeth, Chandler, Neil and Riley Burton

Kim Johnson, Conner Adams and Tricia Goode

www.BarkleyTravel.com

A Smoky Mountain New Year’s Eve

141 West Bankhead St New Albany, MS 38652 Phone: 662-534-5203

Niagara Falls Festival of Lights (December 1-6, 2014)

(Dec 29, 2014 – Jan 1 , 2015) • Three nights lodging in Pigeon Forge • Country Tonite Show • The Grand Majestic Theater • Applewood Farmhouse Dinner • The Wood Grill Dinner Buffet • Dinner at The Old Mill Restaurant • 3 Breakfasts • Shopping at the Outlet Malls • Guided tour of the Smoky Mountains

• Lodging in Cincinnati, OH (to & from Niagara Falls) • Three nights lodging in Niagara Falls, Ontario • Three buffet breakfasts • Skylon Tower Dinner • ”Oh Canada Eh” Holiday Dinner Show • Tour of Niagara Falls Area • IMAX Movie – “Niagara – Miracles, Myths & Magic” • Niagara-on-the-Lake featuring a winery tour with sampling • Chocolate FX (Factory tour & sampling) • Festival of Lights Tour • Local escort

August 2014 | INVITATION OXFORD

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photographed by Ann-Marie Herod

events Fourth of July Parade

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 31

View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationoxford.

Barbera Liddon and Martha Kelley

Kevin, Kenji and Emily Kwas

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INVITATION OXFORD | August 2014

Bramlett Mclaurin; Clara, Stacy, Elena and Pete Small; Ryan, Egan and Jody Delaney; and John Mclaurin

Sara, Emma and Donald Brown

Vickie Love Greenlee, Georgia Love Greenlee Doty and Jeff Montgomery

Kevin and Eliza Weir with Mary Burton McGee

Cannon Interiors A fresh approach to interior design for Oxford

Dr. Larken Ware, Lindsay Ware & Caroline Services include: • Updating and renovation of condos and homes • Coordinating move-ins by placing your existing furniture and accessories • Providing floor plans and custom furniture designs • Designing custom window treatments for your home or office

Being a part of the Oxford-Ole Miss community is like being on vacation year round.

Julie Sample 601-906-2828 Meta Poole Ginn 662-202-2964 Martha Brock 601-519-9940

Complete design work on vacation homes in Hawaii, Florida and Alabama.

Visit us on facebook at Cannon Interiors

Dianne Cannon 901.233.0282

Residential and Commercial Interior Designer dmcdetails@centurytel.net

Let Sample & Po ole make buying your new home a REALITY!

Woody Sample 601-955-1797 John Albriton 601-594-3774 Amanda Wymer 662-234-0808 August 2014 | INVITATION OXFORD

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High Cotton Salon & Spa

products sold exclusively here

@highcottonsalon • Mon-Fri 9-7 • Sat 9-5 • 2208 Jackson Avenue • 662.234.0404

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INVITATION OXFORD | August 2014

Play Ball!

by Melanie Crownover

photographed by Joe Worthem

From little league to peewee football, sports are a driving passion in Oxford. These new and expanding facilities make it easier for young athletes to get in the game, and they are also attracting new teams to the area.

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INVITATION OXFORD | August 2014

Oxford Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Indoor Training Facility at FNC Park Rhea Tannehill and his 11-year-old son Jack used to struggle to practice before the next baseball game. The search for an available field or batting cage was almost as hard as the workout.

Then FNC Park’s new indoor training facility filled that need when it opened in April and became Jack’s weekly spot to work on his swing.

“Now we drive up and there’s a basket of balls and a cage waiting for us, even if I don’t schedule online,” Tannehill said. “We can do more in 30 minutes here than in an hour and a half elsewhere, partly because there’s none of my bad pitches or chasing down balls.”

The 7,500-square-foot construction was built in one year. Funding came from a $150,000 initial investment from Oxford Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Group, with the county and city evenly splitting the match.

The new building is an addition to FNC Park’s existing five soccer fields, 13 baseball fields and BMX motocross track.

The indoor space features six batting practice cages that retract into the ceiling to create more room for larger group play.

“Versatility was the master word when they designed this, and the retractable cages make the difference,” FNC Park Director Brad Freeman said. “I can lift all six and run a soccer team in here like that, no problem. We’ve even had the Girl Scouts come in for their end-ofthe-year party. We can do it all here.”

The new facility’s busiest times so far have been during park tournaments, when teams line up for batting practice before their games.

“It’s another amenity that we can offer the teams that come and play in our tournaments,” Freeman said. “The indoor facility gives them a place to come and get loose, and it adds to the experience.”

In addition to catering to local individual users like the Tannehills, Freeman said the space is available to all Oxford Park Commission teams, from football to lacrosse.

Visit fncpark.com for more information on fees and availability and to reserve batting cages online.

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FNC Tennis Center John Leslie Courts One thing hasn’t changed since David Heckel started playing tennis a decade ago – the long wait to play when the courts are full.

“It’s a seasonal thing. You can’t even sniff a court in the spring and fall,” said Heckel, the Oxford Community Tennis Association (OCTA) president. “There’s a big following for football, baseball, soccer and basketball here, but per capita, this is probably the biggest tennis-playing community in the state.”

With 225 members of OCTA and almost 1,000 children enrolled in city instructional tennis programs, the high demand brought a $1.6 million project funded by the city, county and University of Mississippi to expand existing courts at the FNC Tennis Center John Leslie Courts.

“We’ve had to limit the number of kids we took into the Oxford Park Commission

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INVITATION OXFORD | August 2014

programs until now because of space,” OPC Executive Director Rob Boyd said.

“We just needed the capacity to meet the interest.”

Workers broke ground last August, but an unusually cold winter and rainy spring delayed completion of the 12 new courts.

At press time, the courts were still drying and settling, but officials planned for the courts to open by Aug. 6 in time to host the Mississippi Sweet 16, a junior tournament.

In mid-Aug., they will be open to the public and will also host the United States Tennis Association State Championship in September.

“We’re trying to get them done as quickly as we can while dealing with Mother Nature,” Boyd said. Whenever they are finished, we know they’ll be full.”

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Oxford-Lafayette Sportsplex Although construction is still ongoing, the multisports complex 6 miles from Oxford on Highway 7 South is already fielding plays.

The new private tournament space, which offers soccer fields and baseball and softball diamonds, hosted the Oxford High School baseball camp, as well as the United States Fastpitch Association (USFA) and United States Specialty Sports Association (USSSA) girls’ fastpitch softball tournaments in June and the USSSA baseball tournament in July.

That’s just the beginning of an 18-tournament opening season for the complex.

The eco-friendly grounds boast energyefficient LED lighting and synthetic turf to eliminate watering and mowing. The highperformance artificial grass is also a first for northeast Mississippi.

“There’s no other place around here with this kind of turf,” tournament director Greg Lewis said. “It’s unbelievably realistic. It makes the hops and bounces truer to what you would get on an outdoor field without having to deal with the extreme heat or cold or the threat of a rainout.”

Many Oxford leagues, like youth soccer team the Flood and peewee football team the Dolphins that have players from the surrounding communities of Water Valley, Lafayette and Bruce, use the complex as a central hub for team practices. The new site also draws more teams from farther away.

“This really gives travel players an added destination to compete against state and regional players in this area. If there’s an AA baseball game at FNC Park now, you could have a AAA or major game at the complex,” said site consultant Chris Snopek, who is a former Ole Miss third baseman.

More travel players means more people coming to town to stay in hotels and dine in local restaurants.

“We’re working to bring in a lot more tournaments to Oxford,” Snopek added. “It is a unique opportunity for Oxford to develop another tourist attraction, with those economic dollars going through the county and city.”

Visit facebook.com/OLSportsplex for more information.

Diplomat of the American Pediatric Dentistry

2408 S. Lamar Blvd. Suite 1 • Oxford, MS • (662) 513-4188 August 2014 | INVITATION OXFORD

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INVITATION OXFORD | August 2014

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Smart SNACKS When children come home hungry after a long day at school, treat them to these simple, healthful and creative snacks. recipes and photographs by Kimme Hargrove

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INVITATION OXFORD | August 2014

Fruit Kabobs Children can’t resist fun food like fruiton-a-stick. Keep fresh fruit precut in the fridge for a snack that’s easy to assemble on an early morning or after school. Simply thread fruit onto a serving stick, a small skewer or even a toothpick. Choose from these fruits, or try your own favorites for tasty, colorful and healthful kabobs.

Kiwi Red or green grapes Strawberries Blueberries Cantaloupe Honeydew melon Pineapple Raspberries

Edamame Hummus

This twist on traditional hummus makes a great afternoon snack for the whole family, and the leftovers make a fun substitute for the usual veggies and dip in your child’s lunch box. Serve with cucumbers, celery, pita chips or crackers.

1½ cups frozen edamame, shelled and cooked according to directions 2 Tablespoons tahini paste Juice of 1 lemon 2 garlic cloves, peeled 1 Tablespoon olive oil Salt to taste Blend all ingredients together in a food processor. Consistency should be grainy, but add more oil for a creamier hummus. Sprinkle with paprika, if desired.

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Child-Friendly

Trail Mix

This is a great sweet and savory snack for after school or to pack for a long car ride. It can be easily adjusted to include your child’s favorite treats. Mix any of the following, or get creative with ingredients already in your pantry.

3 cups pretzels 2 cups peanuts (omit if allergies are a concern) 2 cups cereal (try Golden Grahams, Cheerios or Honeycomb) 2 cups raisins 1 cup mini-marshmallows 1 cup M&M’s

Peanut Butter

Pretzel Sticks Pretzel rods become more enticing when dipped in peanut butter and dried fruit. Use short pretzel rods, or break the long ones in half for smaller portions. Spread peanut butter on one end of the pretzel stick, and roll in your favorite store-bought dried fruit mix.

For children with peanut allergies, try using soy nut or sunflower seed butter. An organic mix of sunflower seeds, toasted pepitas, dried cranberries and dates is pictured.

Thick pretzel rods Creamy peanut butter Dried fruit mix

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Satterfield’s pottery

Exclusive at the Frame Up Basement Gallery - Historic Square Oxford, MS Cleveland Commons - Cleveland, MS The Crown - Downtown Indianola, MS

Kelley Sharp

Forest Music

Exhibit: September 2 - September 27, 2014 Artist Reception: Thursday, September 11, 2014 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.

662.234.9090 • www.southsideartgallery.com •150 Courthouse Square • Oxford, MS

Let Tina or Tony do the homework to help you find the perfect new house to call home!

Tony Montgomery • 662-801-2645 tony@kessingerrealestate.com Tina Montgomery • 662-801-1784 tina@kessingerrealestate.com

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INVITATION OXFORD | August 2014

events Juneteenth Celebration

photographed by Joe Worthem and Ann-Marie Herod CONTINUED ON PAGE 50

View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationoxford.

The annual Juneteenth Celebration was held June 14 on Martin Luther King Drive. The event, the oldest-known celebration commemorating the ending of slavery in the United States, included children’s activities and a parade.

Gloria Pringle and Malia Carothers

I’emori Grace and LaTonya Goode

Kendra Campbell, Audrey Boles, Jenai Terrell, Micaela Woods and Madisyn Herron

(front) Micaela Woods, Jenai Terrell and Mykira Buford (back) Audrey Boles, Shara Buford, Tori Terrell, Gabby Dunn and Madisyn Herron

Jimmy and Lois Brown

Robert and Krystal Vaughn with Victoria Cooks and Puntis

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photographed by Joe Worthem and Ann-Marie Herod

events Juneteenth Celebration

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 49

View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationoxford.

Christa and Angela Williams

April Buford and Sherlyn Clark with Cal and ShaQuita Curry

Donald Knowles Sr., James Buchanan, Ashton Boone, Kenyon Eres and Randy Johnson

Jackie Certion and Takiiah Parker

Jennifer Bobo and Kennedi Milliner

Evelyn Smith, Hiburnia Anderson and Mary Polk-Hawkins

Amber Sisk, Micaela Woods and Tera Hill

Tricanna, Creshonna and Cemiah McGee

Amy Davis, Susie Brown, April Christon and Ruth Ball

Your home for sweet treats!

662.563.9900 127 Lakewood Drive Batesville, MS 38606

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photographed by Leslie Brooks

events Fifth-Annual GumBall View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationoxford.

Holli’s Sweet Tooth celebrated National Candy Month with the fifth-annual GumBall June 26. The event included face painting, balloon animals, candy and prizes for children. The candy store also held a blindfolded jelly bean taste test contest and candy quizzes.

Madison and Tameka Wilson

Aaron Varner, Brett Etheridge and Cage Lindsay

Madison Hill, Bramlett McLaurin and Gage Strickland

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INVITATION OXFORD | August 2014

Meg, Ellie, Katie and Tricia Bridges

Hunter Johnson, Kasey Patterson and Gabrielle Herman

Bruce Butler with Lucy and John Myrick

Jane, Frank Jr. and Sarah Jane Yerger

Donna and Madeline Holland

Adam Quick Cell: 832-5051 adam@kessingerrealestate.com

686 Hwy 334 ES

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3bed/2bath $198,500/MLS#131680

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PHASE I AND II #505- $99,500 SOLD #603-$101,500 #608-$101,500 #3507-$102,500 PENDING #3505-$103,500 #3508-$102,500 PENDING #4208- $99,500 2 Pools/2 Tennis Courts, Walking Track, Fitness center, and Tanning Beds

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Feeding Oxford & Ole Miss for 11 Years THERIBCAGEOXFORD.COM 662.238.2929

311 SOUTH LAMAR, OXFORD MS

August 2014 | INVITATION OXFORD

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Now Accepting Fall Registration!

Come see our new studio expansion for performing arts!

662.227.1927

6 62. 236. 10 32 • Group Voice classes, Musical Theater classes, Triple Threat Classes (Singing, Acting & Dancing) with our performing arts instructor, Briana Raif.

• Combo classes of Dance & Gymnastics, Gymnastics classes, Dance classes, Tiny Tot classes (Ages 18 months- 2), Fun Fitness classes & Boys Tumbling.

Fall classes start August 11th!

carry every size egg in stock, “egg”cessories, knowledgeable staff Hours:

Mon - Fri 8:30am to 5:30pm Sat 8:30am to 12:30pm

• Non-competitive cheerleading classes with our cheerleading instructor, Skye James.

Our cheerleaders perform in the Grove on home football game weekends.

Present this ad for $10 off fall registration. (exp. Aug. 30) Sibling discounts available

Class schedules can be found at:

d i xie d a n c e a n d t u mb le.co m

www.clearchoicems.com 2320 A Sunset Dr Grenada, MS 38901

Introducing Downtown Abbe the perfect place for that special occasion

This event venue is just a few miles north of Oxford in quiet downtown Abbeville, MS. Whether your next event is dressy or simple and casual you can transform this space to reflect your personality. Downtown Abbe is a great event venue for small weddings, receptions, private parties, specialty classes or meetings.

w w w. d o w n t o w n a b b e . c o m

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INVITATION OXFORD | August 2014

Doug Gritton

Vice President, independent brokerage for the companies of OneAmerica

John Logan

with Strategic Wealth, Inc.

John Logan News Release Mississippi insurance professional John Logan, Strategic Wealth Inc., has been recognized as a top five financial professional for the companies of OneAmerica and has earned its highest Chairman’s Council distinction for four straight years.

“John has a strong track record of meeting the needs of individuals and small business owners in Mississippi,” said Doug Gritton, vice president, independent brokerage for the companies of OneAmerica. “We appreciate having him on our team and are glad to recognize him again for his outstanding results on behalf of his clients.”

With more than 27 years of experience, Logan provides families, individuals and businesses with financial protection, products and services to help meet their financial goals. Focusing on creating a strong financial base through whole life insurance sales, Logan works primarily with business owners and individuals in the medical field, including dentists, optometrists, physicians and other sole-proprietor medical professionals out of his Tupelo, Miss. office.

“My passion is equipping others to be the best stewards possible of what they earn and are given,” said Logan.

“It’s more important than ever to understand and properly implement the cornerstones of financial health.”

Logan can be reached at (662) 842-5322.

ONEAMERICA FINANCIAL PARTNERS, INC. One American Square, P.O. Box 368 Indianapolis, IN 46206-0368

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TRI-LAKES ASPHALT, LLC "Paving the Way"

Commercial, Industrial and Residential Asphalt Paving Services Parking lots, driveways, streets, pathways, etc.

Proudly serving Lafayette and surrounding counties in North MS

We have moved UP !

We are upstairs at Sugar Magnolia! Come see us! new merchandise arriving daily

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INVITATION OXFORD | August 2014

photographs courtesy of joe worthem

310 Heritage Drive Oxford, MS

photographed by Leslie Brooks

events Firecracker Bash

CONTINUED ON PAGE 58

View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationoxford.

The second-annual Firecracker Bash was held July 3 at the Lyric. The fundraiser for the after-school tutoring and mentoring program Leap Frog included a Mr. and Mrs. America contest, music by the Bouffants, a silent auction and food.

Whitney and Kitty Smith

Darrell and Connie Montgomery with Jimmy and Carrie Traylor

Susan Westbrook, Sally Worsham, Dale Bramlett and Anne Hemphill

Teresa Blair and Betty Zinn

T.R. and Beverly Trout with Belinda McCafferty

Becky and Larry Turner

Diane Tredway, Terry Blackmarr, Vickie Harris and Becky Harden

Cindy Woodall with Kim and Randy Russell

Ginger Parks and Sharon Campbell

Lisa and Bobby Towery

At Emeritus, everyone celebrates life

(662) 234-9600

100 Azalea Drive, Oxford, MS 38655

www.Emeritus.com

August 2014 | INVITATION OXFORD

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photographed by Leslie Brooks

events Firecracker Bash

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 57

View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationoxford.

Randy and Carol Rawlings

Frank and Karan York

Rheagan, Naden, Lisa and Eddie Vaughn

(front row) Bunny Nissen, Susan Smith and Catherine Smith; (back) Charlene Ott, Doris Landon and Anne Asger

ERIC THWEATT CONSTRUCTION

Start Building Your DREAM HOME Today!

662.202.5020 58

INVITATION OXFORD | August 2014

Kathie Cavette, Kay Barron and Beth Pace

Chad Collier, Lindsay Dillon-Maginnis and Pablo Corona

662.578.0290 377 HWY 51 • Batesville, MS 38606 August 2014 | INVITATION OXFORD

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photographed by Joe Worthem

events Two Man Scramble View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationoxford.

The Cannon Motors/Lafayette-Oxford-University Two Man Scramble was held June 21-22 at the Ole Miss Golf Course. The golf tournament benefited the L.O.U. Ole Miss scholarship for local youth.

Guy and Wes Summerlin

Tatum Brown, Shea Scott, Port Knigler, Peter Ross and Todd Wade

Walker Swaney, Walker J. Swaney and Jerry Lee

Bailey Peters and Drew McGehee

Jon Jon Hancock, Matthew Calvin and Matt Cole

Louise Harrison and Chris Thomas

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INVITATION OXFORD | August 2014

Scott Thompson and Tate Anderson

Jay Amis, Wally Morgan, Drew Lance and Drew Dotson

Todd Person and Juan Castillo

Bryce Palar and Robert King

14 5 3 -B S O U T H L A M A R B LV D

d T-S hir t Co .

Ne xt do or to Ox for

V an B uren Village

Nestled in the Van Buren Tyler Avenue Historic District, the Village is just a short stroll from the Courthouse Square or the University of Mississippi campus.

Glenda Keenan, GRI 662-234-5555 • 662-832-0729 glenda@kessingerrealestate.com

August 2014 | INVITATION OXFORD

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events Hill Country Picnic View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationoxford.

The ninth-annual North Mississippi Hill Country Picnic was held June 27-28 on campgrounds near Waterford, Miss. The festival was created to enhance appreciation of blues music through performance, preservation and interpretation.

Mike Harris and Marty Hart

Cameron Lowery, Caitlin Welch, Ben and Mandy Mullen, Kristie and Archie Storey and Julie Kuckuk

Names Names Names Names Names

Glenn Boyd, Tim Walker and Ray Young

Jamie Bullard and Sara Wellman

Luke Stabb and Stud

Sara and Jesse Algood

Lindsey Boman and Josh Decker

Jace and Regan Freeman

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INVITATION OXFORD | August 2014

McKenzi Burnett, Liza Heslop, Ian Philp and Cate Burns

Mathild Daigle, Pheebe Taylor Juolo, Katelynn Dillard and Liam Daigl

Melanie and Matt Hodges

photographed by Joe Worthem

Chris and Trish Weatherall

Cathrine Mansell and Meagan Torrence

Mark and Tonia Sellers August 2014 | INVITATION OXFORD

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INVITATION OXFORD | August 2014

Mississippi is home to Magnolia Grove Meditation Practice Center, a Buddhist monastery and retreat that helps visitors learn to unplug, slow down and simply breathe.

by Lena Anderson

photographed by Paul Davis

August 2014 | INVITATION OXFORD

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Magnolia Grove’s new 10,000-square-foot meditation hall (above) was built last year and features eco-friendly bamboo floors and walls. Right, Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh is environmentally conscious and encourages monastics to take an active role in reversing global warming. Magnolia Grove residents try not to drive cars on Tuesdays.

Previous page, the lotus flower is an important symbol in Buddhism. It grows in muddy water, rising and blooming through the murk to achieve enlightenment.

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INVITATION OXFORD | August 2014

Magnolia

trees dot the 120 acres that make up Magnolia Grove Meditation Practice Center. The center’s namesake is the only indication it is in Mississippi. The place feels a world apart – more Southeast Asia than Southern U.S. – but it’s just 30 miles from Oxford, north of Batesville, Miss.

The magnolia blossoms, along with a lotus pond and rolling hills, help remind visitors to stop and smell the flowers. And if that subtle message is missed, more direct reminders, such as “Just Breathe” and “It Is Now,” are etched into tree stumps and written on stones along the main path.

Magnolia Grove is a residential monastery today, but 10 years ago it was farmland.

A group of families from central Vietnam who moved to the Batesville area bought it as a place to gather for mediation. In 2005, famous Vietnamese monk Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh visited and was moved to adopt Magnolia Grove as one of his mindfulness practice centers (his other two in the United States are in New York and California).

Although Nhat Hanh may not be a household name, he has written more than 100 books, has been interviewed by Oprah Winfrey and was nominated for the 1967 Nobel Peace Prize by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. His involvement raised the center’s profile.

Thanks to Nhat Hanh, Magnolia Grove is home to 27 Buddhist monastics, men and women who live there full-time and practice under his tradition.

The center is open to people of all faiths and traditions to study mindfulness, which Nhat Hanh defines as “the practice of being fully present and alive, body and mind united.” Guests are encouraged to visit and are welcomed to stay for various lengths of time to practice mediation with the monastics, be engaged in their community, and learn how to live more in the present.

The journey is meant to be spiritual, not religious. Brother Phap Uyen, who has been with Magnolia Grove since 2005, is clear that the retreats are not to change anyone’s religious beliefs.

“Thay [our teacher, Thich Nhat Hanh] August 2014 | INVITATION OXFORD

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wants you to keep whatever your root tradition is,” Uyen said. “Yes, mindfulness is a Buddhistbased practice, but you should view mindfulness as another root to your tree. When a tree has many strong roots, it can survive better.”

Hill Schroder, an Ole Miss alum who lives in Atlanta, has spent a large portion of his time since January at Magnolia Grove working with the monastics.

“This place is just amazing,” Schroder said.

“It feels so good to be a part of what they do here. What you hear most while being here is ‘enjoy.’ Enjoy sitting. Enjoy walking. Enjoy working. Even when you’re out in the hot sun pulling weeds, you look over at a nun doing the same thing with a big smile on her face and you

"The South is so blessed to have this place. It’s like a spa for your soul.”

– Hill Schroder, Magnolia Grove visitor

When the large bell (top) rings at Magnolia Grove, it is a sign to listen and refocus. There is plenty of personal time, with breaks in the schedule to nap, read or go for bike rides.

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INVITATION OXFORD | August 2014

think, ‘This is so awesome.’ ” Though the concept of “being in the moment” may seem simple, the daily execution of it can be difficult for beginners.

Glen Presley, a first-time visitor from Jackson, Miss., said he had no idea what to expect.

“I was late, all rushing around and stressed. I almost didn’t come because I had too much stuff to do at home,” he said. “But when I pulled up, they greeted me and just said, ‘You have arrived’ and were so calm. There’s no hurry here.”

Presley said his first formal sitting meditation session was challenging.

“That first night I felt so awkward,” he said. “I couldn’t get comfortable on the cushion but didn’t want to distract anyone, so I stayed rigid and tried not to move. And I thought meditation meant I was supposed to think about all the things that were troubling me.

But it’s the opposite of that. You’re supposed to let go, to be happy now.”

New Construction starting in the $150’s

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August 2014 | INVITATION OXFORD

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765 Nottingham (Notting Hill)

1402 Greenway Cove (Grand Oaks)

775 Shady Oaks (Royal Oaks)

9002 Bristol Cove (Wellsgate)

Glenda Keenan, GRI 662-832-0729 glenda@kessingerrealestate.com

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INVITATION OXFORD | August 2014

710 Quiet Valley Cove (Woodland Hills)

One of the main concepts of mindfulness is conscious breathing, or the act of inhaling and exhaling deeply, focusing only on one’s breath. Sometimes this is accompanied by a chant or counting. This practice is used as a way to align the mind with the body.

“Any time you catch yourself getting away from yourself, getting sad or anxious or angry, just one deep breath and you can alleviate it,” Schroder said. “Return to your breath. It’s where you are right now.”

Another tool used for centering is the sound of a bell. When bells ring at Magnolia Grove, everyone stops what they are doing to listen and refocus. Visitors are encouraged to take this practice home and use it in everyday life, such as with the ring of a telephone, a sound that can typically induce stress.

“We are so busy running, we don’t have time to stop,” Uyen said. “We multitask, run from one thing to the next and don’t really get to know each other. So when you come to our center, you learn the important practice of stopping.”

During mindfulness retreats, guests are asked to keep to the monastics’ daily schedule.

It begins at 5:30 a.m. with a sitting meditation in the center’s new 10,000-square-foot meditation hall.

After sitting meditation, there are group walking and working meditations, showing the importance of staying mindful in every act. Even eating meals, which are vegetarian and sourced locally when possible, are an opportunity to be quietly mindful. Guests are encouraged to chew slowly and savor each tasty, homemade bite.

Though the concept of community, or sangha, is important, silence is highly regarded.

A typical day ends at 9 p.m. with “noble silence” that is not broken until after breakfast the next day.

Not that the days are rigid, overly structured or even totally silent. There is plenty of personal time, a break in the schedule to nap, read or play sports. Footballs, a volley­ ball net and table tennis are available for recreational use. Making time to relax, laugh and have fun is one of the most important

Walking meditations are part of the monastics’ daily practice, helping them stay mindful in every act.

tenets of practicing mindfulness.

“A lot of times we use free time as a way to pack more things in, but [our teacher] says you need to have that space,” Brother Uyen said.

It all adds up to a place that nurtures the mind as well as the body, helping both to slow down and just be, often resulting in greater overall happiness.

“What you learn here is so important,” Schroder, the regular visitor from Atlanta, said.

“And each time I return home, I carry more of it inside me, and it’s really showing in my life.

The South is so blessed to have this place. It’s like a spa for your soul.”

Visit magnoliagrovemonastery.org for more information and schedules.

COMMUNITY SERVICE

In addition to practicing mindfulness and welcoming guests to Magnolia Grove, monastics play an important role outside of the center by

• Visiting nursing homes and hospitals in neighboring towns

• Participating in the religious festival in Oxford, hosted by the University of Mississippi, where local middle school students learn about different religions

• Working with at-risk youth at juvenile delinquency centers, teaching tools for controlling anger

• Attending the Mount Zion Church of Oxford on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday

• Volunteering at soup kitchens in Memphis, Tenn.

• Delivering egg rolls to their neighbors each New Year’s Day

• Traveling the country to conduct mindfulness retreats

August 2014 | INVITATION OXFORD

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SHOP • DINE • VISIT NEW ALBANY,

Mississippi 1114 West Bankhead • New Albany, MS 662-534-5242 • tallhatchietumbling@yahoo.com

Catering Good Eats

Small and large events across North Mississippi Weddings • Rehearsal Dinners 662-534-3250 New Albany, MS

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INVITATION OXFORD | August 2014

NEW HOURS FOR THE OXFORD SCHOOL DISTRICT 2014-2015 SCHOOL YEAR BRAMLETT ELEMENTARY SCHOOL School Office Hours: 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Breakfast and Student Drop-Off: 7 a.m.

Classes: 7:40 a.m. to 2:35 p.m OXFORD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL School Office Hours: 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Breakfast and Student Drop-Off: 7 a.m.

Classes: 7:40 a.m. to 2:35 p.m.

DELLA DAVIDSON ELEMENTARY SCHOOL School Office Hours: 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Breakfast and Student Drop-Off: 7 a.m.

Classes: 7:40 a.m. to 2:35 p.m.

OXFORD INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL School Office Hours: 7 a.m. to 3:45 p.m.

Breakfast and Student Drop-Off: 7 a.m.

Classes: 7:35 a.m. to 2:40 p.m.

• 1, 2, and 3 Bedroom apartments • Pets welcome • Sparkling swimming pool • Fitness center • Tanning salon • Washer and dryer provided • Covered parking • Cable and Internet included • Tennis court • Outdoor games: horseshoes, bocce ball, shuffleboard & ping pong • Free cable TV & internet • 1 mile from campus

2000 Lexington Pointe Dr, Oxford, MS 38655 www.liveatlexingtonpointeapts.com 662-281-0402 lexingtonpointe@heritageproperties.com

OXFORD MIDDLE SCHOOL School Office Hours: 7:30 a.m. to 4:15 p.m.

Student Drop-Off: 7:30 a.m.

Breakfast: 7:45 a.m.

Classes: 8:20 a.m. to 3:40 p.m.

OXFORD HIGH SCHOOL School Office Hours: 7:30 a.m. to 4:15 p.m.

Student Drop-Off: 7:30 a.m.

Breakfast: 7:45 a.m.

Classes: 8:25 a.m. to 3:40 p.m.

OXFORD LEARNING CENTER School Office Hours: 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Student Drop-Off: 7:30 a.m.

Breakfast: 7:45 a.m.

Classes: 8:25 a.m. to 3:40 p.m.

C.M. SCOTT CENTER School Office Hours: 7:15 a.m. to 3:45 p.m.

Breakfast and Student Drop-Off: 7 a.m.

Classes: 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m For more information, visit oxfordsd.org.

August 2014 | INVITATION OXFORD

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IN SEASON Watermelon

by Julie Cantrell

photographed by Joe Worthem

F

or Melody Sharp, owner of Providence House Farms in Water Valley, Miss., memories of childhood visits to her grandparents’ house evoke cravings for homegrown watermelon.

“All summer I would look forward to choosing a watermelon from my grandfather’s garden,” Sharp said. She recalled how she would squeeze between her four brothers at the picnic table to enjoy a slice in the shade. “Those were the best melons I’ve ever had,” she said.

As a child, Sharp never imagined she would someday follow her grandfather’s footsteps.

“He owned the old Carothers Supermarket in Tupelo. He sold his own crops there, straight from his garden,” she said.

When Sharp, who also owns Living Foods on College Hill Road, had difficulty finding a local source for organic watermelons, she decided to take her grandfather’s approach and grow her own.

“We’ve been farming a few acres for a while, but this is our first year to grow melons,” Sharp said.

Her mother-in-law taught her how to garden, and while Sharp admits she still has a lot to learn about growing watermelons, she has never needed much instruction when it comes to eating them. She shared two of her recipes.

“I don’t really follow any rules,” she said.

“I just toy around with ideas until it tastes right to me.”

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INVITATION OXFORD | August 2014

Are You Ready....

To Look and Feel YOUR Best Yet? The Real Woman Challenge Begins September 2nd

Watermelon Crawl Juice 1 cup watermelon, cubed ½ a cucumber Handful of fresh mint (optional)

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Juice all ingredients in juicer of choice. Stir and serve over ice.

Southern Watermelon Salad 3 cups watermelon, cut 1 cup fresh blueberries ½ cup cubed jicama (optional) ½ cup feta cheese (optional) Handful of fresh mint chiffonade Handful of sweet basil chiffonade 1 organic lime Combine all fruit and herbs. Squeeze fresh lime on top and refrigerate for at least an hour to allow flavors time to combine. (Optional: To increase sweetness, make a simple honey vinaigrette by combining ½ cup olive oil, ⅛ cup apple cider vinegar and 2 tablespoons local honey. Toss and enjoy.)

Alice & Company Salon Hair & Nails

Serving our community since 1990!

662.234.3896 • 1729 University Ave.• www.AliceandCompanySalon.com Scan for beauty tips & salon specials

Sharp sells her homegrown watermelons and other organic produce at the Oxford City Market on Tuesdays and at Living Foods.

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events Sandlot Baseball Game View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationoxford.

A sandlot baseball game was held June 14 at Oxford-University Stadium. The Mississippi Flood took on Austin’s Texas Playboys. The event was organized by Carol Mockbee. Ron Shapiro threw the first pitch of the game.

Whitt and Ava Wilson

(front) Skylar Nester, John Austin, Lauren Nester, John Landon Germany Jr. and Jennifer Germany (back) Molly Germany and John Landon Germany III

Tyler Miller and Paul White

Jim Bulian and Melissa Swetland with Hallie and Beau Battle

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INVITATION OXFORD | August 2014

Jenny Antin and Bonnie Evride

Jon, Holly and Cherie Maynard

Pamela Ponce and Bronson Lang

Nikki Neely, Taylor Webb and Catherine Servati

photographed by Joe Worthem

Mary Lanie Thames and Reagan Spreafico

23 1/2 hrs 7 days Service

Chip, Ford and Gibbs Wade

Anne-Marie Varnell-Gordon and Sarah Trapp

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photographed by Ann-Marie Herod

events Movies and Music in the Park View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationoxford.

Oxford Park Commission hosted its annual summer series Movies and Music in Avent Park in June and July. The family-friendly evenings featured Frozen, Finding Nemo, Wreck-It Ralph and E.T. Participants enjoyed music before the movies started.

Paul, Angela and Mary Rhodes Manley

Heather and Kaylee Gray with Kathy Conner and Riley Gray

Tambra and Tyquiez Brassell

Allan and Katie Howell

Tonell Jones, Jonathan Rummel and Kenna Cornelius

Alee and Hannah Merrill with Katie Huckaby and Kayleigh Wolfe

Hattie and Caroline Busby with Kennedy Crane

Racheal Paysinger, Carly Whitworth and Cash Robertson

Michelle and Dennis Lucker

Sara Grace Eleferaly, Bella Trott, Jack Henry Hamilton, Gracie Carr Jenkins and Lisa Eleferaly

Mary and Geoff Knight

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INVITATION OXFORD | August 2014

Brodie and Carlyn Burns

Gabby and Camilla Coleman

Kurstin Henry and Pennelope Wilson

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photographed by Ann-Marie Herod

events NAACP Mother’s and Father’s Day Program View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationoxford.

The Oxford-Lafayette County NAACP Branch held a Mother’s and Father’s Day program June 15 at the Tallahatchie-Oxford Missionary Baptist Association building. The event honored Hugh Ivy and Mildred Eggerson as Father and Mother of the Year.

Tajah McCullough, Candance Williams, Candice Mathis and Christy Isom

Angela Cohran with Lydia and Aaliyah Holland

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INVITATION OXFORD | August 2014

Carrie Driskell and Ruth Ball

Hugh Ivy and Mildred Eggerson

Shyleigha Smith and Angel Marzette

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August 2014 | INVITATION OXFORD

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Periodontics and Dental Implants Dr. Michael M. Perry • Dr. Brenda L. Fowler Oxford • Bartlett • Collierville • Southaven • Memphis

Dr. Perry and Dr. Fowler have a periodontal practice with an emphasis on Dental Implants, the Treatment and Management of Periodontal Disease (Gum Disease) in a relaxed setting.

Perry and Dr. Fowler have a periodontal practice with an phasis on DENTAL IMPLANTS, the TREATMENT and MANAGEMENT PERIODONTAL DISEASE (GUM DISEASE) in a relaxed setting.

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Open 7 Days a Week Sunday - Thursday, 11:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.

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INVITATION OXFORD | August 2014

please call today 866.667.4867

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A Room of Her Own

Children’s book author Sarah Frances Hardy writes and illustrates from her small but cozy creative space off the family carport. She shares what makes her studio special. photographed by Joe Worthem

August 2014 | INVITATION OXFORD

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My workspace

is off the back of our carport. It’s attached to our house but has its own entrance. I’m a mother of three girls, and I work from home, so it’s necessary to have a room of my own. I’d never be able to get anything done otherwise, and the separateness of the space allows me to be apart a little bit mentally as well. When the girls are in school, I head out to my studio every morning with my coffee. I treat each day as a workday and take very few breaks.

The summer gets a little crazier with a lot more interruptions.

My studio is an eclectic space, full of recycled materials and people’s trash. My heart pine floors were in the house where I grew up in Jackson, Miss., and my mom rescued them from a Dumpster a few years ago. They’re perfect for my space, not only because they’re rough and worn (so I don’t mind spilling a little paint here and there), but also because they’re something from my childhood.

We discovered wonderful cypress boards when my husband and I were renovating our house. The boards were behind the walls of our bathroom, and we hated to cover them up with tile and Sheetrock. I’ve leaned them up against the walls as art, and I’m using two of them as a big, sturdy work desk.

I use a handmade appliquéd blanket that I found on the street in Greece as a curtain, and my comfy chair is a little too ratty for our living room.

When I do illustration work, I paint the original images with paint on paper, the old-fashioned way, but I scan the finished pieces into my computer and do lots of editing digitally. I spend as much time on my computer using my Wacom tablet to tweak my illustrations as I spend painting the original artwork. It’s great to have my computer a few steps away while I’m working.

My drafting table was my birthday gift when I was 15 years old. I’ve thought about replacing it for a bigger, sleeker model, but all of the dings, scratches and stains tell a story.

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INVITATION OXFORD | August 2014

Hardy’s first children’s book, Puzzled by Pink, came out in 2012. Her newest book, Paint Me!, was released this spring, and she is working on her third book, Dress Me!, which will be released next year.

Hardy’s art studio is located just off the carport, but it’s still far enough away that it feels separate from the main house. The space is small but functional, and it’s filled with art supplies and objects that inspire her creative process.

August 2014 | INVITATION OXFORD

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and

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Curtis is available on Thursdays to help with your shade selection or help with a custom lamp made from your vessels.

Can be seen at Sugar Magnolia booth #7

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in the Northpointe subdivision of Oxford

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back-to-school list:

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317 CENTERPOINTE DRIVE•$324,900 Old Town Shopping Center 1919 University Ave., Oxford, MS 662-234-6330

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INVITATION OXFORD | August 2014

•2,650 square feet•3 Bedroom, 2.5 Bath•Bonus room and office •Hardwood floors•Vaulted ceilings•Stainless appliances •Swimming pool•Screened-in porch•Fenced-in back yard

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2015 UNIVERSITY AVE. OXFORD, MS 38655 (662) 662-234-9234 WWW.PJSWINEOXFORDMS.COM August 2014 | INVITATION OXFORD

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photographed by Elizabeth Evans

events Rebels Return to Swayze Field View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationoxford.

Hundreds of fans gathered outside of Swayze Field June 10 to celebrate the Rebel baseball team’s trip to the College World Series in Omaha, Neb. The team reached the semifinals, where they lost 4-1 to No. 1 Virginia.

Stiles Rowland, Joel David Montgomery, Hassell Wilkinson, John West Perry and Ava Montgomery Cross with Rebel

Karlee Ponder, Lendyn Blakely, Mary Grace Bass and Olivia Halverson

Calvin Sellers, Sparky Reardon and Michael Harmon

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INVITATION OXFORD | August 2014

Hannah McEuen and Audrey Seal

Moni and Stuart Simpson

Eloise and Denson Hollis

August 2014 | INVITATION OXFORD

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photographed by Paul Gandy

events Run in the Sun 5K View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationoxford.

The Run in the Sun 5K race was held June 7 at the Oxford Conference Center. The event benefited Special Olympics Mississippi, which provides year-round athletic competition in Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities.

Paige and Peyton Hamann

Zoie Mitchell, Laura Cronberger, Greg Stackhouse, Lauren Guy, Jenn Duke, Hannah Hudson, Gabby Horstmann and Alley Daily

Jackie Chapman with Brett, Amy and Bristol Childs

Johnny Riley, Delisa Watts and Kenneth Williams

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INVITATION OXFORD | August 2014

Mary and Brownwyne Bain

Jeff Fusco, Kristen VanNoord, Dylan Lewis and Jesus Diaz

Angela Hickman, Kimberly Burden and Kim Staggs

Tavia Dennis, Chyna Ward and Brittanni Bundren

Oxford’s #1 T-Shirt Store Unique Oxford & Ole Miss T-Shirts, Caps & More!

new designs arriving daily

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August 2014 | INVITATION OXFORD

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events Summer Sunset Series View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationoxford.

The University of Mississippi Museum hosted the Summer Sunset Series, free concerts held Sundays in June. Performers included Jimmy Phillips & the Ruminators, Alanna Mosely Band, Uncle Sam Band, the Soultones featuring Effie Burt and Damein Walsh, and Rocket 88.

Bill, Billy, William and Streety Gates

Silas, Jacob, Amelia, Adam, Tobi and Sarah Griffith

Rhett, Katie and Tison Deweese

Clyde, Emelie and Adeline McGee

Myia and Michelle Edwards with Samo Korosee

Krisden, Maier and Pat Jernigan

Betty Musselwhite and Doug Bloom with Charles and Judy Cooper

(front) Anita Wallace, Karen Lee and Kitty Coxx (back) Don Wallace, Hugh Lee and Rickey Coxx

Candace and Vivian Vasilyev and Christy Knighton

Katherine, Laura and Shelli Poole

Rose and Hubert Spears

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INVITATION OXFORD | August 2014

Sarah and Cliff Smith with Mary Margaret Andrews

photographed by Leslie Brooks

Rebecca and Locke Phillips

Jeff Rogers, Annette Watson, Sara Lloyd and Ben Lloyd

Phil and Donna Walls

The Perfect location for Weddings, Weekend Getaways & Special Occasions!

Karan and Frank York August 2014 | INVITATION OXFORD

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Sidewalk Sales August 15, 16, and 23

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INVITATION OXFORD | August 2014

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August 2014 | INVITATION OXFORD

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BASIC

TRAINING

Oxford offers several enrichment programs to help young students work on the fundamental skills necessary for academic success.

by Caitlin Adams

LAFAYETTE COUNTY LITERACY COUNCIL

BOYS & GIRLS CLUB

LEAP FROG

EXCEL BY 5

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INVITATION OXFORD | August 2014

BOYS & GIRLS CLUB About 15 percent of students in Lafayette County will not graduate high school, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

The Oxford branch of the Boys & Girls Club works to change that statistic in Lafayette County with year-round programs that strive to engage children when they need it most.

“Right after school is when kids need a place to go,” said Zell Long, chief professional officer of Boys & Girls Clubs of North Mississippi. “That’s when they can get into trouble.”

Participation in the nonprofit program, offered to children 6 to 18 years old, is as easy as filling out an application and paying an activity fee. The Boys & Girls Club mission, according to Long, is just as simple.

“We strive to inspire and enable all young people to reach their full potential,” she said.

Run by part-time staff and volunteers, the Boys & Girls Club offers an array of activities emphasizing education and recreation.

From homework help in the computer lab to time around the Ping-Pong table, each afternoon spent at the clubhouse is different.

Lamont Watkins, Oxford’s club director and a product of the Boys & Girls Club, says that’s the key to keeping the more than 490 youth at Oxford’s club – the largest of the five clubs operated in North Mississippi – coming back each day.

“You have to keep it exciting and fun,” he said. “We try to provide a lot of programs to keep them interested.”

Offerings such as swimming, tennis and golf provide opportunities that members might not have access to otherwise, an important component in the success of the program.

“Kids speak with their feet,” Long said. “If they don’t like it, they don’t come.”

Visit bgcnms.org/clubs/lou-barksdale-clubhouse-oxford.aspx or call 662-832-0602 to make a donation to the Oxford Boys & Girls Club.

PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF BOYS & GIRLS CLUB

Fun activities such as basketball, tennis or creating craft projects engage children and keep them returning to the Boys & Girls Club after school, a time when they might otherwise get into trouble.

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PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF EXCEL BY 5

The Excel By 5 Family Resource Center is a free library where anyone in Oxford can check out educational toys, games, books and puzzles. Right, the annual EXCELebration is a free family event with activities and entertainment geared toward children age 5 and younger. It was held at the Powerhouse last year and is now held at the Jackson Ave. Center.

EXCEL BY 5 Young children have short attention spans, and many youngsters tire of their toys as soon as they are taken out of the box. But one local organization has made it its mission to keep children entertained in a developmentally stimulating way.

Excel By 5, a nonprofit, statewide pro­gram that emphasizes the important roles parents and early childhood educators play in the lives of children during their most formative years – birth to age 5 – opened a Family Resource Center in partnership with Northwest Mississippi Child Care Resource and Referral Center.

The store, located at 1097 Jackson Ave. W., is a free library of sorts, where anyone in Oxford can check out educational toys, games, books and puzzles. Each item in the center helps children learn at an age-appropriate level, a crucial function for children entering grade school.

Kayla Beck, a mother who taught kindergarten at Bramlett Elementary in 2012,

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INVITATION OXFORD | August 2014

experienced this truth as a teacher.

“The demands in kindergarten have definitely gone up,” she said. “Research continues to show that the early years are the most important years to determine a child’s success later in life.”

Beck is now the site coordinator for Excel By 5 and works to support families, caregivers and communities to bridge the gap between preschool and grade school.

Alice Ricks, executive director of United Way, the lead partner for the Lafayette Oxford University Excel By 5 Coalition, helps spearhead the initiative within the community.

With emphasis in four areas – community involvement, family/parent support, early care/ education and health, the privately funded initiative’s goal is simple.

“We strive to support the community in making themselves better places to have and raise children,” Ricks said.

But getting to that point requires work.

Oxford became an officially certified Excel

By 5 community last year, after United Way saw the need for early childhood support in the community.

“One of the areas that came out of our needs assessment was early childhood,” Ricks said. “There was lots of agreement throughout LOU that a more coordinated focus on ensuring that all children enter kindergarten would be helpful.”

Although Excel By 5 doesn’t provide direct child care, its efforts, led by a myriad of volunteers and organizations, support the people who do take care of children, including parents, grandparents, day cares and babysitters.

“Our goal is to help make their jobs easier and help fill gaps that aren’t already being filled,” Ricks said.

Support is offered via training, workshops and expert advice, and services range from producing an early childhood resource guide for families to organizing newborn packets for every baby born in Lafayette County.

Visit excelby5.com for more information.

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August 2014 | INVITATION OXFORD

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When Leap Frog, a free after-school tutoring program, started in the late 1980s, 12 second graders spent their afternoons at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church receiving additional educational support. Today, the program has grown and serves 140 first, second and third graders at three sites in Oxford.

Teresa Adams, the program’s executive director, works with the school districts to identify students who are at risk for falling behind academically.

“They just need attention,” she said.

“When they have that attention, they get help reading and writing and in turn feel secure.”

With more than 200 trained volunteers, each child is assured the attention he or she craves. Tutors are paired with the same child for a semester. That continuity, Adams said, allows students and tutors to build rapport and is key to their success in the program.

“The students grow attached to them,” she said. “They light up when their mentor arrives.”

Each day is split into two one-hour slots.

The first hour is devoted to reading, writing and homework assistance. The second hour, many of the students’ favorite, includes snack time and organized extracurricular activities.

Beyond reading and worksheets, the program organizes cultural events throughout the semester. Step shows, health fairs and traveling exhibits from the University Museum are just a few programs the students encounter.

Although some students may join the program with behavioral issues and challenges, they leave behind a community rallying for them.

“We’ve really seen a difference in these kids, and not just on paper,” Adams said, “in how they behave and respond to others. We’ve cried [with joy] a few times during the years when we get report cards.”

Visit theleapfrogprogram.org for more information.

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INVITATION OXFORD | August 2014

PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF LEAP FROG

LEAP FROG

Leap Frog students are paired with the same mentor for a whole semester. The child and mentor spend two hours together during each Leap Frog session. The first hour is spent on homework and reading and writing assistance. The second hour is devoted to having fun and attending cultural events.

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Twenty-nine percent of third graders and 35 percent of fourth graders in the Oxford and Lafayette public schools were not reading proficiently in the 2012-2013 school year, according to the Mississippi Department of Education.

The Lafayette County Literacy Council, an initiative that offers targeted reading support to elementary school children in Lafayette County, is helping shatter those statistics.

“We want to support those kids and those families to make sure they are getting the support that they need,” said Meridith Wulff, the program’s director.

The council offers three programs that are all part of the same pipeline. The first, Oxford Conference for the Book Children’s Book Festival, incorporates a book workshop into the school district’s first-grade curriculum in tandem with the Oxford Conference for the Book. The council’s second program, Reading Rockets, closes the gap between proficient and underdeveloped readers through an afterschool intensive reading program.

Wulff works with the schools to ensure the programs are aligned but different to keep young minds piqued.

“We try to make it fun and do things on a multisensory level,” she said.

The Dolly Parton Imagination Library, the third program administered by the council, helps children have access to books regardless of a family’s income. More than 800 Lafayette County children are enrolled and receive a free book in the mail each month.

The three different programs may target youngsters, but as Wulff sees it, they are an investment in the quality of life for the entire community.

“If we want people to come and live here, we have to provide support for our youngest community members,” she said.

Visit lafayetteliteracy.org for more information.

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PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY LAFAYETTE COUNTY LITERACY COUNCIL

LAFAYETTE COUNTY LITERACY COUNCIL

The Lafayette Literacy Council offers three reading programs. They are the Oxford Conference for the Book Children’s Book Festival; Reading Rockets, an after-school intensive reading program; and the Dolly Parton Imagination Library.

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INVITATION OXFORD | August 2014

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INVITATION OXFORD | August 2014

OXFORD COMMONS RIBBON CUTTING

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PETS of the Month

Adoption is the best way to help stray animals. Visit the Oxford-Lafayette Humane Society, located at 413 McElroy Drive or call the office at 662-236-7631 to take home one of these furry friends or other animals that need a home.

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INVITATION OXFORD | August 2014

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I AM OXFORD Sunny Young interviewed by Sonia Thompson

photographed at the Bramlett Elementary School learning garden by Paul Gandy

Sunny Young is the program director of Good Food for Oxford Schools. GFOS is a farm-toschool program that aims to improve cafeteria menus and educate students and their families about healthy eating. Young shared some of the program’s recent achievements.

Q: What’s new with Oxford school lunches?

A: Our menus are now 75 percent cooked from scratch, and they were 30 percent last spring. In January, we put a salad bar in Oxford High School.

It’s gone over so well. We’ve been granted five more salad bars [through the Let’s Move Salad Bars to Schools program] for more lunchrooms this fall.

Q: How has GFOS grown in the past year?

A: It’s full blown in all the schools now. We’ve planted learning gardens at all the elementary schools [Oxford, Bramlett and Della elementary schools and the Scott Center]. We got some help from the Eating Good and Moving Like We Should program [through the Nutrition and Hospitality Management Department at the University of Mississippi]. They bought materials and came out with their students to help us.

Q: What has the response been like?

A: We did a survey with the parents, and 100 percent of them felt like the gardens were important and wanted to see their children work more with them. They all wanted to see them expand.

Q: What do the children think about GFOS? A: The students are starting to take this home.

We have kids asking to cook spaghetti squash for dinner. They want to grow things. One little girl is so into her garden that the family had to hire a “babysitter” for it when they went out of town.

Her mom said she sees her singing to her plants.

Q: Where do you hope GFOS will be next year?

A: I want to see a salad bar and a garden at every school. I hope we’ll have progressed toward eliminating overly processed foods. We’re amping up our farm-to-school efforts, and I want local farmers to see us as a big client, like they would a restaurant.

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