June 2015

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DIVYA SHAKTI, MD, MPH

WILLIAM BLACK,Pediatric MD Cardiac Imaging Dermatology

Examining children’s hearts with non-invasive imaging.

JULIE KAPLAN, MD Pediatric Genetics

genetic health issues in children.

Unlocking

T E A C H E R S.

P I O N E E R S.

C A R E G I V E R S.

Meet our new doctors at Children’s of Mississippi.

OSCAR RODRIGUEZ, MD Pediatric Sleep Medicine

Helping boys and girls get a better night’s

sleep.

NINA WONG SARVER, PhD Child Development

ANJU SUKUMARAN, MD

WILLIAM BLACK, MD Pediatric Endocrinology Dermatology

Caring for kids with diabetes

and hormone

disorders.

To schedule an appointment, call 888.815.2005.

University of Mississippi Medical Center

© University of Mississippi Medical Center 2015. All rights reserved.

Treating kids with anxiety and emotional disorders.

J. George Smith, M.D. Allison Cease, C.R.N.P.

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DR. ALI DODGE-KHATAMI

STEVEN AND AMY DEAR

MIKE ESPY

the

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CONTENTS 20 26 32

JUNE 2015

VOLUME

10,

NUMBER

4

DESTINATION CUBA

Northsider Mike Espy returned from Cuba in March with the belief that there is “no downside whatsoever” to reopening trade with the Communist country. Espy believes the lifting of the trade embargo will mean new vacation opportunities for Americans. Espy helped lead a 90-member delegation of the U.S. Agriculture Coalition for Cuba (USACC) on a “listening tour.” During the five-day visit, the group met with Cuban officials in Havana, the capital city, and toured farms and agricultural facilities in the countryside.

FINDING THE GOOD IN EVERYTHING

In a culture where most parents are complaining that they can’t get their children to look up from their cell phones or video games, Amy Dear has just seen her oldest child elected Chi Omega president at the University of Mississippi, her second child named Ole Miss Freshman Leader of the Year, and her third named Mr. Madison Middle School. While their path has not always been easy, this family consistently manages to focus on the good and have a positive impact on the world around them.

A MEDICAL OASIS

In the middle of the Great Rift Valley in Kenya, among lush tea farms in rectangular plots, Tenwek Hospital is a medical oasis. People journey hundreds of miles for treatment at Tenwek - especially when the American doctors come. Tenwek, a teaching hospital, is located in a fairly remote area four hours west of the Kenyan capital of Nairobi and doesn’t have any heart surgeons, per se. One of the Tenwek surgeons could perform a simple heart surgery on an adult if needed - “but nothing complicated, and no kids. It’s a start,” said Dr. Ali Dodge-Khatami, chief of pediatric and congenital heart surgery at Blair E. Batson Children’s Hospital in Jackson.

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Heather Leigh Moore/ Matthew Michael Verret Bessie Burton Jones/ John Stewart Howorth Kara Brooke McDowell/ Daniel Thomas Payne Meghan Layne Benson/ Nathan Daniel Peden

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EVENTS

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Rachel Ellison Jones/ Jerry Linzy Gressett II

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Brittany Diana Brewer/ William Edward Lindley

Paige Elaine Noble/ Andrew Thomas Mitchell

Sarah Elizabeth Ford/ Scott Dampeer McVey Amy Elizabeth Fountain/ Dr. Joseph Luke Gatlin

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Beth Ann West/ Michael David Roach Britton Frances Yerger/ Jeremy Royce Vaughn Alison Elizabeth O’Neal/ Rodney Dale McMinn

Laurie Allison Selman/ Eric David Nimon Mary Alexander Street/ Peyton Scot Thigpen s u n

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Norma Katharine Butts/ Wesley Barton Wagner

Julia Leigh Rogers/ Christopher Brandon Loecher

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Mary Lacy Montgomery/ Benjamin Webb Sabin

COLUMNS

WEDDINGS/ENGAGEMENTS

PARTIES

DEPARTMENTS

38 42

Engagement Party

An engagement celebration honoring Brent Smith and Mary Kat McCurdy was held at the home of Beth Peterson.

Wedding Celebration

A wedding celebration was held recently in the Woodland Hills home of Holly and Alan Lange honoring Nini Mullis O’Keefe and Michael O’Keefe.

Engagement Party

An engagement celebration honoring Kara McDowell and Dan Payne was held in the home of Maury and Kyle Ball.

Kidney Drawdown

The $10,000 Uptown Drawdown benefiting the Mississippi Kidney Foundation was held at the Country Club of Jackson.

Special Olympics Gala

The Special Olympics Mississippi Countdown to Victory and Awards Ceremony was held at the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame.

Jon D. Williams Cotillion

The parents night for the 22nd annual Jon D. Williams Cotillion was held at Sparkman Auditorium at the ag museum.

New Stage Toast To Broadway

New Stage Theatre presented dinner and a musical salute to celebrated composers of the Great White Way - past and present. The event, “A Toast to Broadway,” was held at the Fairview Inn.

Metro Ballet Tea Party

The Mississippi Metropolitan Ballet, under the artistic direction of Jennifer Beasley, presented the full-length ballet “Beauty and the Beast” at Jackson Academy Performing Arts Center.

Tennis Advantage Jenny Markow

FoodWise Marlana Walters

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2015

Engagement Party

A celebration honoring the engagement of Kellie Oberkirch and Will Johnson was held in the home of Dana and David Traxler.

Engagement Party

The engagement of Hannah James to Timothy Clark was celebrated at the home of LeAnne and Allen Brewer of Madison.

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Taste of Mississippi Benefit

The 28th annual Blue Cross Blue Shield Taste of Mississippi was held at Highland Village.

Love Of Art

For the Love of Art, an event benefiting the Mississippi Symphony Orchestra, was held at SummerHouse.

MS Burn Foundation Hunks and Heels

Hunks and Heels, a womanless beauty pageant to benefit the Mississippi Burn Foundation, was held at Jaco’s Tacos and One Block East.

Community Foundation Birthday

In recognition of its founding 20 years ago, the Community Foundation of Greater Jackson hosted a birthday celebration at The Cedars.

MS Opera "Tosca" Party

The Mississippi Opera held a “Tosca” cast party in the home of Elbert and Betty Bivins.

Ole Miss Club

The Central Mississippi Ole Miss Rebel Club winter meeting was held at the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame.

Your Bride’s Favorite Wish List THE BRIDAL REGISTRY INSIDE BATTE FURNITURE AND INTERIORS

Our list of registrants is being continually updated.

This list is current as of May 6, 2015.

CALL TODAY TO SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT TO REGISTER.

June 2015

BESSIE BURTON JONES TREVOR TINDLE SARAH HERRINGTON ANGELA KELLY REBECCA DEAN KATHARINE BUTTS CARRIE SHUMAKER EMILY CADY VIRGINIA THOMPSON ANN KIRK JACOBS ALYSSA DAVANT SARAH FORD KATE RIDGWAY KIMBELL BINGHAM ALLI LICOVICH MEREDITH PARKER CAROLYN NOBLE MARY LACY MONTGOMERY BRITTON YERGER AMY FOUNTAIN

July 2015

MARY ALEX STREET LOUISE LAMB MARY-GRACE TURNER ANNE STEWART HORSLEY KESLER ROBERTS HANNAH KORTE JOY WALLER

August 2015

ALLISON BOYD CARLEY MOHAN ASHLEY FARMER DOUGLAS STRAHAN MARY KATHRYN CHRISTIAN TRACI LAWSON JANIE STORY DORA LEE MALOUF ELIZABETH MCCRAW

STEWART HOWORTH SAMUEL HALL JUSTIN EGGER MATT LENDERMAN CAMERON JONES WESLEY WAGNER CHASE WYNN REED THOMPSON KEVIN THOMAS NEIL HARRIS JAKE JOHNSON SCOTT MCVEY JERAME HILL VAUGHAN WATERS BB MITCHELL JOHN JORDAN JORDAN DOWNS WEBB SABIN JEREMY VAUGHN LUKE GATLIN

6/06/15 6/06/15 6/06/15 6/06/15 6/12/15 6/13/15 6/13/15 6/13/15 6/20/15 6/20/15 6/20/15 6/20/15 6/20/15 6/27/15 6/27/15 6/27/15 6/27/15 6/27/15 6/27/15 6/27/15

PEYTON THIGPEN MURRY ADAMS DAVE HENSLEE CONRAD HOLUB EMMETT MANNING NATHAN DYE ANDREW WELCH

7/11/15 7/11/15 7/11/15 7/17/15 7/25/15 7/25/15 7/25/15

TYLER LAYTON MARK MCREE JACK CULBERTSON CHRISTOPHER LOFTIN JEREMY RAINEY NICOLAS CAGLE GRIFFIN HATCLIFF WESLEY LITTLE PARKER NEYLAND

8/01/15 8/01/15 8/01/15 8/01/15 8/08/15 8/15/15 8/15/15 8/22/15 8/29/15

September 2015

MOLLY CARPENTER KAILEY RIGBY LINDSEY PARKE STEPHANIE CHACE BLAIR MILLIGAN MARY JORDAN KIRKLAND KIM CHURCH AMBRIE PARKS ANITA MENON

October 2015

MARY CLAIRE CARDIN ELIZABETH WADE MALLORY JOHNSTON ALLISON YOUNG BETHANY MAHAFFEY SARAH LLOYD ALLRED AUGUSTA WILLIAMS ELLEN ELLIOTT MARY MARGARET MAY

ALLEN TATE BOWEN THIGPEN GRAYSON RIDGWAY ETHAN KELLY FRANK KOSSEN THOMAS FULLER ROB DERIVAUX LUKE GOODMAN EDWARD HANLON

9/05/15 9/05/15 9/05/15 9/05/15 9/05/15 9/05/15 9/12/15 9/19/15 9/26/15

NOEL CUMBAA MARTIN ANTOON PAYNE KELLUM BARRETT JACQUES WITT HAGGARD PETER STEVENSON BAILEY FAIR STEVEN BLEVINS JOHN CULPEPPER

10/03/15 10/03/15 10/03/15 10/03/15 10/03/15 10/17/15 10/17/15 10/24/15 10/31/15

November 2015 CHRISTINE RUSTON ANNE ELISE MCINTOSH

PAUL RICE DAVID RAY

December 2015

CLAIRE STEWART ANN COLLINS JOINER

MICHAEL HARKINS COLE MOCKBEE

11/07/15 11/14/15

12/19/15 12/19/15

Father’s Day s June 21

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A MONTHLY PUBLICATION OF THE NORTHSIDE SUN NEWSPAPER P.O. BOX 16709 JACKSON, MISSISSIPPI 39236 601-957-1122

EDITOR Jimmye Sweat

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Holly Dean

ART DIRECTOR Wanda McCain

WRITERS Susan Deaver • Glenda Wadsworth • Anthony Warren Jenny Markow • Jenny Woodruff • Marlana Walters Judy Smith • Jana Hoops • Tom Ramsey

PHOTOGRAPHERS Beth Buckley • Lonnie Kees • Christina Cannon • Chris Grillis David Johnston • Anthony Warren • Jenny Woodruff • Allison Muirhead

ADVERTISING Carly O’Bryant • Lauren Breazeale • Amy Forsyth • Misti Sims

PRODUCTION MANAGER Beth Buckley

PRODUCTION Jo Ann Ward Nikki Hodum

BOOKKEEPING Dani Poe

CIRCULATION Dottie Cole • Kerri Hawkins THE NORTHSIDE SUN MAGAZINE IS PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY THE NORTHSIDE SUN NEWSPAPER. ALTHOUGH THE MAGAZINE IS DISTRIBUTED FREE ON NEWSSTANDS, PAID SUBSCRIPTIONS ARE AVAILABLE FOR $25 ANNUALLY AND MAILED DIRECTLY TO YOUR HOME. FOR NEW SUBSCRIPTIONS, CHANGES OF ADDRESS OR OTHER SERVICES RELATED TO SUBSCRIPTIONS, CALL 601-957-1542. FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION CONTACT YOUR CURRENT AD REP. FOR INFORMATION CONCERNING WEDDING SUBMISSIONS, PARTY COVERAGE OR FEATURES, CALL 601-957-1123 OR E-MAIL JIMMYE@NORTHSIDESUN.COM. THE MAGAZINE OFFICE IS LOCATED AT 246 BRIARWOOD DR., JACKSON, MISSISSIPPI 39206; THE MAILING ADDRESS IS: P. O. BOX 16709, JACKSON, MISSISSIPPI 39236.

ABOUT THE COVER grkb=OMNR =

Amy and Steven Dear were photographed

by Lonnie Kees 16

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These areas represent about 50% of all office visits. And 100% of our focus.

When you have chronic ENT problems, it’s good to know you have access to University physicians.

University ENTs have received fellowship training to specialize in a particular area of the head and neck. This means when you see a University ENT, he or she is uniquely qualified to treat your specific need‌so you can focus on getting back to life.

To make an appointment, call 601.815.4368 or 888.815.2005.

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Destination

C U B A

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Hotel Hemingway in old Havana

PHOTO BY BETH BUCKLEY

N

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KATIE EUBANKS

orthsider Mike Espy returned from Cuba in March with the belief that there is “no downside whatsoever” to reopening trade with the Communist country. Espy’s educational trip certainly had no downside. After staying in a four-star hotel, dining on “cheap and delicious” lobster, and enjoying the sights and sounds of downtown Havana, Espy believes the lifting of the trade embargo will mean new vacation opportunities for Americans. “Mississippians will be flying to Havana like they drive to Destin now. The flight from Miami to Havana is only 45 or 50 minutes,” Espy said.

Espy, who served as secretary of agriculture under President Bill Clinton, helped lead a 90-member delegation of the U.S. Agriculture Coalition for Cuba (USACC) on a “listening tour.” The USACC represents agriculture companies that are lobbying Congress to lift the 55-year-old trade embargo with the island country, located only a hundred miles from Miami. During the five-day visit, the group met with Cuban officials in Havana, the capital city, and toured farms and agricultural facilities in the countryside.

This was not Espy’s first time in Cuba. Forty years ago, as a 19-year-old with a student visa, he studied in Havana for six weeks. So last month, he enjoyed seeing the “remarkable” changes the country has undergone since the ‘70s. “Now you can own property [or] a business privately. You can buy a car, if you can get one, you know. The government can’t tell you where to work anymore,” he said.

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They still ration food, but they’ve got private supermarkets for you to shop in if you’ve got money. Forty years ago, I remember being followed on a daily basis. [On this recent trip] there was no sense that we were being watched at all. We were being The United States as a whole has robustly welcomed.”

Espy’s hotel in Havana, the Meliá technology, computers, “everything Habana, was “as nice as any four-star a developed country could sell to a hotel anywhere in the world,” he said. lesser developed country,” Espy The USACC group spread out said. “We have access to training, between a few four- and five-star mentorship, things we could hotels. The tourism sector is develimmediately provide for a profit.” oped. There are a lot of tourism opportunities,” Espy said. His favorite meal was grilled lobster. “Lobster is ubiquitous there. It’s almost like asking for bread.” And of course the drinks were great, too. “Cuban rum is acknowledged, perfect. I sat by the water and had a lot of rum drinks - a lot of adult beverages,” he said. “I went to the

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hotel I stayed in 40 years ago, the National Hotel of Cuba, and had a cigar and a mojito there, just like I did back then.

It’s a huge, elegant hotel, circa 1930. I thought Michael Corleone was going to come out of a room and look for Fredo. Havana has ambience and mystery about it. It holds a lot of charm.”

With all that charm, blue water, and Spanish architecture, Havana will be a spring break spot for Americans “immediately [after the embargo is lifted],” he said, adding that he saw many vacationers from Europe and Asia during his stay. Right now, Americans can only go to Cuba for educational or informational purposes. So student groups may go, but vacationers are not allowed. Neither are guns and drugs, Espy noted. “So there is no crime problem [in Havana] right now whatsoever. I mean you can walk around at night and have no sense of danger.

“Now when you go out to the country, the people are very poor - they’re poor period. But nobody looked like a vagabond, you know - unless they were. I saw very few panhandlers. There was no tattered clothing at all,” he said. Spanish is the mother language in Cuba, but a lot of people speak English. The USACC group had an interpreter. And Cuban businesses do not accept the U.S. dollar - yet.

The USACC delegation to Cuba included President Ronald Reagan’s agriculture secretary, John Block, along with Espy and numerous other agriculture experts. “We had agriculture economists, people over trade groups - cotton, rice, sugar - there was a dairy, there was a wine representative - different sectors in agriculture sent their best people,” Espy said. “Also on the trip were the governor’s office of Missouri, and presidents of land-grant institutions.” The group’s job was to meet with Cuba’s ministers of agriculture and trade, along with the minister of foreign relations who was responsible for restoring trade with the United States. “Then we separated into five groups and got on a bus and toured the agricultural sector in Cuba of our choice. Some went to tour the sugar mills. Some went to the rice fields and rice mills. Some went to livestock,” Espy said. “I went to tobacco because I believe the instant benefit of reopening trade with Cuba is going to be in the field of cigars. I wanted to see what the likelihood is of distributorships in the United States from Cuban tobacco.” That likelihood is good, he said. (“Places here sell ‘Cuban’ cigars, but they’re really from Uruguay and places like that.”)

Sylvain Roy, John Block and Mike Epsy in front of a series of bear statues representing different countries. The U.S. bear is Statue of Liberty.

And U.S.-Cuban trade would have other benefits for both countries. “Mississippi has farm equipment we could sell to them, which they desperately need. I saw very few tractors [in Cuba]. I saw a whole lot of guys in the fields behind oxen. We have agriculture universities like Mississippi State and Alcorn where professors could be put on contract to go to Cuba to benefit the growth of their crops. We have rice, corn, catfish, soybeans, and some sugar,” he said. “In Cuba they import rice from Vietnam, which is 4,000 miles away. They could buy rice from Mississippi, Louisiana and Arkansas, 900 miles away.”

The United States as a whole has technology, computers, “everything a developed country could sell to a lesser developed country,” Espy said. “We have access to training, mentorship, things we could immediately provide for a profit.”

Every year, the United States can only consume one-third of what it grows, so we must be on the lookout for new markets, he said. And in case anyone was wondering, “we already trade with Communist countries. We trade with China, Vietnam - and we fought a war in

Vietnam.”

Talks with Cuba have been ongoing since January, when President Obama announced that the United States would begin the process of normalizing trade relations with Cuba. But ultimately, Congress must decide whether to lift the embargo. Congressional hearings are happening, and some of Espy’s fellow travelers from the USACC group have already testified.

“I haven’t been called yet, but I’m certainly willing to when I’m asked to,” Espy said. “This should not even be an issue in the presidential campaign. There’s no reason not to [lift the embargo].”

If you ask Espy to talk about Cuba, you’ll hear as much as you need to know, and perhaps a bit more. Just don’t ask him for a genuine Cuban cigar. “You can bring back $100 worth of cigars. I brought back as many as I could, and I’ve given them all away,” he said.

Espy is the Madison County Board of Supervisors’ attorney. He previously served as Mississippi’s 2nd district congressman. He also has a private practice, is an agriculture advisor, and is a board member of Cultivating New Frontiers in Agriculture, or CNFA. He and his family live in Madison County.

Press conference

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Charlie walked in his classroom and announced that he had been adopted. “Now no one can ever take me from my parents, and my name is Charlie,� he proclaimed.

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Finding the Good in Everything BY

In a culture where most parents are complaining that they can’t get their children to look up from their cell phones or video games, Amy Dear has just seen her oldest child elected Chi Omega president at the University of Mississippi, her second child named Ole Miss Freshman Leader of the Year, and her third named Mr. Madison Middle School.

CATHY PENDLETON

While their path has not always been easy, this family consistently manages to focus on the good and have a positive impact on the world around them.

A native of Brookhaven, Amy majored in elementary education at Ole Miss.

Her college roommate set her up on a blind date with Steven Dear, and 18 months later the couple graduated, married and moved to Houston, Texas, within a three week period. After seven years in Houston, followed by six years in Lakeland, Fla., the couple decided it was time pack up their children, Madeleine, Olivia and Jackson, and move home to Mississippi. Amy quit her teaching job and Steven resigned from Shell Oil, and they moved into Steven’s parents’ home in Jackson.

What they thought would be a short stay turned into a seven month visit after two hurricanes hit Florida and delayed the sale of their home. Amy saw the silver lining in a situation that would have been stressful for many people. “Staying for months as guests in Steven’s parents’ home was not what we had planned, but it was actually one of our happier times,” she said. Once the house in Florida sold, they purchased their dream home in Madison.

Steven went to work for Horne LLP, and Amy found a job teaching kindergarten at Madison Station Elementary School, as a long-term substitute. Everything seemed to be going to plan, but Amy felt God pulling her in another direc-

tion. “Every time I watched TV or read a magazine, I saw something about adoption.” She mentioned the idea to Steven, and he immediately jumped on board.

“Researching adoption agencies and training took two years … much longer than expected … but again the timing revealed how perfect God’s plan is,” Amy explained. Just as they finalized their training, they learned about a Madison Station kindergarten student who was in foster care. This little boy, who had lived in five different homes by the time he was five years old, was a perfect fit for the Dear family. Just three days after moving in with his new family, the little boy asked Steven, “Is it OK if I call you Dad? I’ve never had a dad before.”

“We chose names for our other children that were special to us,” Dear explained. “We wanted this child to have a fresh start and he wanted a new name too.” After going through lists of family names, he chose the name “Charlie” for himself. On the morning the adoption was finalized, his family took him back to school with cupcakes to celebrate. Charlie walked into his classroom and announced that he had been adopted. “Now no one can ever take me from my parents, and my name is Charlie,” he proclaimed. When he had a hard time convincing his classmates that he had a new name, family friend Joe Iupe printed a shirt that said,

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Finding the Good in Everything

Olivia, Amy and Madeleine Dear in the Grove at Ole Miss

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“Call me Charlie.”

Dear describes Charlie, who will celebrate his 10th birthday in April, as a bubbly boy who will talk to anyone and makes friends everywhere he goes.

“Initially, we wanted to open our home to bless another child, but he has blessed us in more ways than we could have imagined,” she added. “This experience has changed all of us completely. Seeing this child arrive with just a tiny box of belongings totally changed who we are. You can’t be selfish when you realize how blessed you are and how much you want to give back.”

She and Steven volunteer their time speaking for 200 Million Flowers, a Ridgeland-based agency that helps adoptive parents navigate adoption.

According to Rick Valore, executive director of 200 Million Flowers, “The Dears have been very gracious with their time by telling potential foster families about their foster to adoption story. They are glad to help the next wave of foster parents to be prepared for the twists, turns and rewards of welcoming home children in need of a family. Steven and Amy are the first to admit, they are the ones who have benefited the most through adoption.”

The Dears are working to establish an adoption ministry at their church, Pinelake, where they are also involved in children’s ministry and Steven is a men’s small group leader. “Going to church together as a family is really important to us,” Amy added.

“We openly discuss issues as a family and pray for each other.”

Amy is currently an early childhood mentor for Ole Miss, working for Mississippi Building Blocks, which is a wing of the Barksdale Institute. Because

Mississippi does not have a pre-kindergarten program, Mississippi Building Blocks trains the teachers who care for children from birth through age four or five, so they can help children be better prepared for kindergarten.

She has served on PTO boards at Madison Station, Madison Middle and Madison Central, chairing teacher appreciation and various fund-raising events. Amy is a sustaining member of the Junior League of Jackson, where she was involved in all arts and education projects.

Encouraging responsibility and organization in her children has helped them to become leaders.

“We are giving them the tools they need to be organized and independent, but we don’t do the work for them,” Amy added. “We don’t really conform to the world. Our children don’t do something ‘just because everyone else is doing it.’ If we have rules that are broken and there is a punishment, we stick to it. We are consistent with our expectations.”

Amy said they have never pushed their children to be involved in particular activities, but if they decide to take part in something, they are expected to give 100 percent.

In describing her mother, the Dears’ oldest daughter Madeleine says, “She is one of those people who changes the world. She goes above and beyond and completely out of her way to bless everyone in her path. That means anything from adding a few seats at our Easter lunch to adding an extra seat at the breakfast table for good. Her attitude inspires me to make a change in the world, too, even if it seems small in the moment.”

Madeleine does things in a big way, though. This former Miss Madison Central, MC student body president and homecoming queen, is currently a junior accounting major at Ole Miss. She was recently elected president of Chi Omega, president of the Ole Miss Student Alumni, and is a member of the search committee for the new alumni director for Ole Miss.

Olivia, who also served as president of the student body at Madison Central, is now a freshman at Ole Miss, majoring in integrated marketing communi-

cations with a minor in Spanish. She is president of the Freshman Council, Chi Omega model pledge, and serves on the sorority’s philanthropy committee and pledge board. “The most important thing Mom taught me was to have a heart for the world around me,” Olivia said. “As I grew up, I watched as my mom reached out to everyone around us. Blood or no blood, she treats everyone she loves as family. What is in Mom’s head quickly moves from her heart to her hands, and I love her so deeply for that.” Olivia is following in her mother’s footsteps through mission work, a recent internship for a foster care agency, and uplifting messages on her blog, youwillseekmeandfindme.wordpress.com.

Jackson was recently named Mr. Madison Middle School and is secretary of the student council. An accident provided another opportunity for Amy to teach her children how to find the good in what first appears to be a bad situation.

Jackson was ice skating shortly after the rink in Madison opened when he fell forward and cut his wrist on the blade of the person skating in front of him. He severed four tendons, an artery and the nerves leading to four fingers. Jackson was the catcher on a select baseball team. He had to give up the sport he loved after the accident. “We focused on the positive aspects,” Amy explained.

“Throughout a year of therapy, and with no baseball tournaments, we had lots more time together.

Jackson found new gifts and passions that he had never considered before, including cross country running. Even though he doesn’t have feeling in a few of his fingers, he has a new appreciation for the things he does have. We realized that God just has a different plan for him than what we thought it was going to be.”

Things like the loss of a job, injury and illness, hurricanes, and the long process of adoption

The Dears at a family wedding (from left, back) Steven, Amy, Madeleine, Olivia; (front) Charlie and Jackson

could be seen as negative by many people. The Dears choose to always look for the silver lining. “God has His own plan for us, and it far better than anything we could imagine,” Amy explained. “So we teach our children that we are going to find the good in everything that happens … because there is always something good.”

The Dear children with Colonel Reb

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A MEDICAL I

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KATIE EUBANKS

n the middle of the Great Rift Valley in Kenya,

among lush tea farms in rectangular plots, Tenwek Hospital is a medical oasis. People journey hundreds of miles for treatment at Tenwek - especially when the American doctors come. Much like the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC), Tenwek is a teaching hospital, with elective courses for medical students, internships, residencies, and a nursing school. But Tenwek is located in a fairly remote area four hours west of the Kenyan capital of Nairobi. And the hospital doesn’t have any heart surgeons, per se. One of the Tenwek surgeons could perform a simple heart surgery on an adult if needed - “but nothing complicated, and no kids. It’s a start,” said Dr. Ali Dodge-Khatami, chief of pediatric and congenital heart surgery at Blair E. Batson Children’s Hospital in Jackson.

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A MEDICAL

Cases at Tenwek included rheumatic and congenital heart disease, both of which would be detected and treated early in the United States.

Dodge-Khatami’s patients ranged from four months to 17 years old.

Dodge-Khatami, along with Dr. Mary Taylor, chief of pediatric cardiology and critical care, was part of a team that went to Tenwek from February 4 through 24 to treat patients and share knowledge with the staff. About 18 doctors, nurses and other health professionals went on the trip, facilitated by Samaritan’s Purse, a Christian humanitarian organization.

Taylor had been to Tenwek four times before. A group of physicians, primarily from Vanderbilt University, started the annual trip several years ago. But this was Dodge-Khatami’s first time at the east African hospital. (He’d previously been on nine medical trips to destinations including north Africa, Vietnam, Russia, Ukraine and Central America.)

At Batson, a pediatric heart surgeon might perform seven operations a week. At Tenwek, that number increases to 10 or 11. “Sometimes we’d

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squeeze in three cases a day [at Tenwek]. You know if you’re not able to do anything, [the patient] probably won’t get treated for six months or more [until the next American team arrives],” Dodge-Khatatmi said.

For the Samaritan’s Purse team, workdays at Tenwek begin around 7 a.m., which is comparable to mornings at Batson. But the work continues until 7 or 8, with only a quick lunch, Taylor said. “[And] one of us is at the hospital 24 hours a day.”

Cases at Tenwek included rheumatic and congenital heart disease, both of which would be detected and treated early in the United States.

Dodge-Khatami’s patients ranged from four months to 17 years old. (Most ranged from six months to three years old.)

Rheumatic heart disease is a lesion that develops from an inflammatory reaction to bacteria, Dodge-Khatami said.

“It’s pretty much been eradicated here,” Taylor added.

Because of limited access to antibiotics in east Africa, “Strep throat could turn into something that eats away your [heart] valves. It either makes them too tight, or they leak,” Dodge-Khatami said.

If untreated, rheumatic heart disease can result in a shortened lifespan, Taylor said.

The medical team spent a lot of time replacing valves due to the disease.

But the hardest part of the work at Tenwek was choosing the patients.

“Most all of them would have surgery if they were here,” Taylor said.

“We tried to select heart defects that could be fixed with one operation, rather than accept patients who’ll need multiple operations. They couldn’t afford the second operation,” DodgeKhatami said.

In total, the team screened 100 patients, and

completed 19 surgeries and eight balloon procedures, which are alternatives to surgery.

Surgical equipment at Tenwek is basic, but adequate to get the job done, Dodge-Khatami said.

“We take with us patches, sutures, glue, that are nearing their expiration dates. They’re still sterile, though. We take it there and it’s fine.”

Each person on the trip brought two large duffel bags, “and only a fraction of that is clothing. Most of it is supplies,” Taylor said.

“We [also] take a biomedical engineer, and they work on the equipment.”

Limited equipment affects how the doctors care for patients. “If you know you only have one venti-

lator, you can’t keep your patient on that ventilator very long. We have 30 here, a luxury of resources,” she said.

Tenwek’s electricity comes from a hydroelectric dam on a nearby river, “so it’s not uncommon for the electricity to go out,” she said. Mosquito nets cover every bed on the floor, which is open to the outdoors.

One reason for the team’s long hours at Tenwek was the teaching aspect of the trip. The operating room would contain double the normal number of people so the surgeons could teach as they operated, Dodge-Khatami said.

“It takes time to explain and show what you’re

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A MEDICAL

doing. Every single step is going to take longer.”

Post-surgery, the people of east Africa got back on their feet much more quickly than Americans would.

“We push them along through recovery pretty quickly. Here, after you have heart surgery, you’ll be at the hospital for a week. Over there, by the next day, they were walking around,” Taylor said.

“And they require very little in the way of pain medication. They’re not used to having it like we are here - even the babies.”

Visiting medical teams at Tenwek stay in dormstyle apartments, eat meals prepared by the local staff, and often visit booths that sell vegetables and clothing, Taylor said.

“Sometimes the staff would try to prepare American-type food like spaghetti or pasta. But primarily, their diet, they have a lot of rice, red beans, some chicken-type dishes. They have a little garden right outside the facility where they grow kale.”

Although there’s not a lot of free time, “we do have a chaplain who comes with us from Samaritan’s Purse. We do have some devotional time in the early mornings.

“And there’s a hike up to this high point where you have a 360-degree view of the whole region.

It’s a pretty nice climate, 75 to 80 during the day and in the 50s at night, so people will hike or walk in their spare time,” she said.

Taylor and Dodge-Khatami’s team visited a local

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elementary school and gave out soccer balls.

Sundays include a church service on the grounds of Tenwek, and hospital staff members often invite visiting physicians to their homes for food or tea.

Everyone pays his or her own way for the Samaritan’s Purse trip, minus some grant money for the nurses and some airfare donated by Emirates Airlines.

In total, the cost adds up to between $2,000 and $2,500 per person, Taylor said.

So Taylor’s team started a 501c3 called Hearts of East Africa (www.heartsofeastafrica.com) to raise money for the trip, which can be a financial stretch for young nurses and others.

On the other hand, medical mission work often costs far less than the same procedures would in America, Dodge-Khatami said.

“On a typical trip, it costs $40,000 to $50,000 for a team of 15 to go for two weeks. And we do 20 operations in those two weeks. Here, the true cost of just one pediatric surgery would be $20,000 to $30,000.

“So on a trip, we’re spending $2,000 per surgery instead of $20,000.”

At the end of the day, there were plenty of bitter-

sweet stories at Tenwek. Patients who had to be turned away were still grateful for an evaluation, grateful to find out what was wrong with them, Taylor said.

But the happy stories made up for it.

“We had a 15-year-old who basically showed up out of nowhere with an unknown diagnosis that turned out to be a heart murmur. Normally, we would have picked it up here before birth, and probably operated at four to six months,” DodgeKhatami said.

“It’s something we can repair very well and get them back to a normal life. He bounced back within two to three days.”

Another patient, after surgery, declared that she would be a doctor one day, Taylor recalled.

Hopefully, by the time that girl grows up, she won’t have to learn heart surgery from an American on a medical aid trip. The Tenwek staff seems motivated to learn, Dodge-Khatami said.

Taylor agreed, and said the teaching process has improved over time.

“We leave a lot of resources and tools with them.

The care they offer has been elevated.”

Taylor and Dodge-Khatami are Northsiders.

qbkkfp ^as^kq^db T H E U S TA S T. D O M I N I C ’ S

WOMEN’S CHALLENGER WAS A BIG SUCCESS The 2015 USTA St. Dominic’s Women’s Challenger was a big success. River

Hills put on quite an event. In spite of some rain, the show went on and everyone supported Mississippi’s only professional tournament. Anhelina Kalinina

by JENNY MARKOW Care-A-Van where St. Dominic’s staff provided free blood pressure and cholesterol screenings.

Dave Randall, director of tennis at River Hills, was pleased with the 2015

the number 5 seed, won the singles title, and Johanna Konta, the number one

Challenger. “This year’s tournament was a big success and we are looking

long tournament. Thirty young ladies from Rowan Middle School came out and

We couldn’t put on a top notch tournament without their support.” From the

seed, finished second. There were a number of special events during the week-

enjoyed watching tennis, playing tennis and eating the River Hills “famous” buffet. Tina Clay, who volunteers with Links, Lefleur’s Bluff Chapter, brought the

forward to working with Catholic Charities and all the sponsors again next year. pro/am event to the chefs cookout to the finals, a great time was had by all.

The first USTA League Championship of the year was held April 17-19 at Mag-

girls to River Hills for the morning of tennis. Sanderson Farms, Tri County Com-

nolia Tennis Club in Columbus. The 65 and over division headed to Columbus

each of the girls a tennis t-shirt.

delays, but overall, the 2015 USTA League Championships are off to a great start.

munity Tennis Association and USTA Mississippi sponsored the event and gave Another special event was a wheelchair tennis exhibition. Wheelchair players

Johnny McGinn and Chris Ethridge played each other before a feature match of the day.

Other fun events going on during the challenger were two pro-am matches.

One with eight St. Dominic’s doctors and eight of the professional players enjoying a round robin doubles format of tennis, and the second pro-am featured

Sanderson Farms, CSpire and NS2 playing a round robin with eight pro players.

One of the biggest special events was a Sanderson Farms cook-off between

four top local chef’s; River Hills, St. Dominic, Derek Emerson and Jeremy Emfin-

for a weekend of fun and lots of tennis. Of course, rain came and caused some

Linda Thompson, from the Northside, was the captain of her ladies 4.0 winning team. The 3.5 ladies champions are also from the Northside and Linda Walley was the captain of that team. The women’s 3.0 champions are from the

Brookhaven area and Leanne Summers and Betty Simmons are the co-captains.

On the men’s side, both winning teams hail from the Gulf Coast. Skip St. Amant was the captain for the men’s 3.5 team and Hap Davis captained the men’s 4.0

winning team. Next up on the USTA League Championships is the 55 and over USTA League Adult Championships in Greenville, May 15-17.

The USTA League 18 and over state championships will be held in the Jackson-

ger. They cooked up four different chicken dishes using Sanderson Farms

Ridgeland area June 19-21. A large field is expected to participate. “We will have

their favorite dish.

are excited to be having it in the Jackson-Ridgeland area,” says USTA MS Adult

chicken, of course. Approximately 200 people enjoyed tasting and voting for On Thursday there was a ladies luncheon, “Serving Up Women’s Health,” with

a panel of local physicians covering health topics for today’s women; Ruth Fredericks, Harper Stone and Chad Gnam.

The luncheon was followed by Healthy Heart screening aboard St. Dominic’s

over 1,000 players and spectators in the tri-county area during this event. “We

League Director Lindsey Sartain. Parham Bridges Tennis Center, Ridgeland Tennis Center and River Hills Club are serving as tournament hosts. USTA League Tennis is the world’s largest recreational tennis league providing organized, structured team matches for all ability levels.

Tennis is truly the sport of a lifetime. The 2015 65+ USTA League State Championship was held in Columbus. More than 200 tennis players participated in the three-day event.

Two teams from the Northside won their divisions.

65+ 3.5 Linda Walley was the captain for the women’s 3.5 team that won in Columbus. Front L-R: Toni Williams, Faye Hudson, Ola Kuriger, Sally Hovanec; Back L-R: Kathleen Merkich, Sue Yarbro, Linda Walley, Peggy Carmen 38

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65+ 4.0 Barbara Rushton, Geri Smith, Barbara West, Cheryl Harris, Susan Dale, Jeanne Moak, Linda Thompson

qbkkfp ^as^kq^db Many teams make it to state some with the expectation of playing to win and

some just happy to make it there. While winning state is the ultimate prize, all

teams come filled with child-like excitement and anticipation of having a fun-

filled time. The planning committee is comprised of members who understand

land Tennis Center, River Hills Tennis Club, Reservoir YMCA and Country Club

of Jackson. Without these organizations, the championships would not be possible.

Thanks to volunteerism and a great local committee, plans are being made to

and have an appreciation of what it takes to create a great experience for the

deliver a fun and memorable weekend for all. This year’s tournament commit-

year players can expect to have an awesome time at Bridges Tennis Center Fri-

Anita Stamps, Paul Kimble, Terry Overcash and Gayla Elliott.

players. The highlight of every championship weekend is the players party. This day night with food, beverages and a local DJ will be on hand.

Sponsorship plays a big part in making the championships a success. This

year’s list of sponsors include: USTA MS, Tri-County CTA, Ridgeland Tourism

Commission, Herrin-Gear Lexus, Capital City Beverage, Parham Bridges, Ridge-

tee, headed by Mitch Peters, includes: Lindsey Sartain, Carrie Starks Moore,

USTA Junior Team Tennis (JTT) for the tri-county area must be on your “to do

list” of things you want your child involved in. JTT offers children the opportu-

nity to compete on teams that emphasize fun, fitness and friends. “We continue to see growth each season,” reports Angie Deleon, JTT tri-county local league

The 2015 USTA $25,000 Women’s Challenger, presented by St. Dominic Hospital and Sanderson Farms, was a huge success. During the week-long tournament, many special events were held at River Hills. The tournament featured several local junior players as wild card picks in the main draw or qualifiers along with ball boys and girls. Catholic Charities is the beneficiary of the proceeds for the only professional tennis tournament in Mississippi.

Serving as a ball boy is local junior player Andrew Sweat.

Local tennis player Keri Wong was in the main draw.

Local junior player Callie Billman was invited to play in the qualifying round.

Local junior player Meredith Roberts played in the qualifying round.

Enjoying some good tennis are local tennis enthusiasts Dr. Ken Carter, Barney Jacks and Anna Elliott.

Playing in the wheelchair exhibition match was local player Chris Ethridge.

Playing in the wheelchair exhibition match was local player Johnny McGinn.

The number one seed, Johanna Konta, finished in second place.

Tori Roberts was selected to play in the qualifying round of the Challenger.

Local junior, Turner Yates, received an invitation to play in the qualifying round.

Turner is going to play tennis at the University of Missouri in the fall.

The number five seed Anhelina Kalinina finished as the champion.

Having fun as ball girls are local junior players Elena Roberts, Mimi McCraney and Emma Dye.

Maxine Stegall, Jan Johnson and Miriam Hixon have a front-row seat during one of the feature matches. j u n e

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qbkkfp ^as^kq^db coordinator. “Tennis can be a lonely sport sometimes, but when playing on a team, it takes on a whole new meaning,” continues Deleon. There are junior

programs available for all skill levels and ages from five to18. Summer league

in creating a great event for the state. We look forward to another exciting championship this year.”

It’s the perfect time of year to get out and play tennis. It’s not too hot and it’s

JTT “Friday Night Under the Lights” registration is open now, you can go to:

not too cold, it’s just right. Grab your racket and a friend and head to the courts.

The league fee is $26 if you are a current USTA member.

Facebook; ustamississippi or follow us on Twitter; ustamississippi.

http://teamtennis.usta.com or contact Angie Deleon at angied@mstennis.com.

Play begins June 5 and runs for six weeks. The USTA JTT State Champi-

onships, sponsored by BankPlus, will be held in Jackson July 24-26. “Ready to

Rally” beginner tennis programs will be held at facilities across the Northside:

Don’t forget, for all of your tennis needs, go to www.mstennis.com, like us on

The Jackson Ladies Tennis League has a volunteer player from each color to serve as secretary for that season.

Reservoir YMCA, Ridgeland Tennis Center, Brandon City Courts, Richland Parks and Recreation, Brighton Park in Clinton and the YMCA Vicksburg. Contact Angie for more details.

We are very proud to announce that BankPlus will be the sponsor for our

USTA JTT State Championship again this year. BankPlus has supported junior tennis for 12 consecutive years. USTA JTT Championship continues to grow

each summer with close to 500 children coming from across the state in 2014.

“Without BankPlus, our kids wouldn’t have the first class championship they

have all grown to expect,” says Russell Dendy, director of junior programs for USTA Mississippi. “We are very appreciative of their continued support.”

“BankPlus has been proud to serve as title sponsor of the USTA Junior Team

Tennis Mississippi State Championships for the past 12 years,” said BankPlus

chief marketing and business development officer, Rob Armour. “We are grate-

ful for the opportunity to do our part in encouraging youth sports activities and

Serving as league secretaries for the past spring season are Linda Blissett, gold; Brenda Bethany, bronze; Donna McCarthy, yellow; Lou Ann Durfey, red; Laurie Raines, blue; Reveland Wheat, white. (Not pictured) Tracy Mason, platinum

Two teams traveled from Jackson to Hot Springs Village, Ark., to play in the 70+ Multi-State Championships. Teams came from 10 different states to play in the weekend tournament. They had a 80s division and one player was 90 years old! Truly tennis is the sport of a lifetime. Reveland Wheat took a team of ladies and Clarence Foreman took a team of men.

Reveland’s 70 team Reveland Wheat, Virginia Foreman, Willie Mae Lott, Faye Hudson, Clometa Register from Cleveland, Sue Fowler from Vicksburg, and Armetha Anthony.

Clarence’s 70 team Clarence Foreman, Robert Hudson, Johnny Anthony, James Brown, Ralph Lemay, Roger King, Earl Stegall, Gene Vinson

YYOUR OUR BBUSINESS USINESS IISS O OUR UR BBUSINESS! USINESS! TTO OA ADVERTISE DVERTISE YYOUR OUR BBUSINESS USINESS CCONTACT ONTACT YOUR YOUR AD AD REP REP OR OR CCALL ALL THE THE NORTHSIDE NORTHSIDE SUN SUN AT AT 601-957-1124 601-957-1124 40

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FOODWISE

WRITTEN DOWN FOR FAMILY FAVORITE RECIPES

M

text and photography by

other’s Day 2015 was quite possibly an almost perfect afternoon. The sun was shining, the birds were singing and the kids were splashing in their blow-up pool. I noticed a beautiful little bluebird with a huge bug in its mouth. The bird was flickering back-and-forth trying to get dinner back to the nest of babies. The more I watched, I couldn’t tell if it was the mama bird or daddy bird bringing home supper for the kids. Which caused me to wonder, who’s responsible for feeding the baby birds?

Not knowing anything about birds I decided to do a little research. According to Elizabeth Zimmerman Smith, bluebirds (Sialia) work as a team during nesting season. Pairs mate in spring and summer and produce four to five eggs each time. Male bluebirds are responsible for protecting the nest site from predators like sparrows, and the assembly of the

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marlana walters

nest is left to the females. Male bluebirds do not incubate eggs or brood young but they do bring food to the female while she is tending to the eggs and fledglings. After the birds hatch, male bluebirds help feed the babies.

Wow. That’s neat, the daddy bird and mommy bird working together to feed the baby birds. Then Elizabeth went on to quell the picturesque parenting with the sad reality; it’s a tough world out there unfortunately, sometimes during nesting, a male or female bluebird departs and never returns. If one of the pair does disappear, it’s possible that the remaining parent may find a new mate. That depends on how many unattached bluebirds there are in the area. Sometimes they find a new partner within hours, in a day, sometimes it takes weeks, but sometimes the lost mate is never replaced. A lone male may sing forlornly all day long before seeking out another.

I thought back to a recent text exchange with a friend after we learned that a young mother we both knew passed away after a sudden illness. My heart ached for her husband and children, and then I began to wonder – what would my husband feed the children if I suddenly departed and never returned?

Strangely, I wasn’t worried about their college fund or how much they might miss me. Morbid, perhaps - but instinctively I knew that my husband would need help making the kids lunch. Then I began to think about bigger things; like, I’m not sure that my husband knows how to make my pot roast, because I haven’t written it down.

Logically, I know that my children wouldn’t starve if I weren’t around and I don’t want to give my husband too little credit, but I recall my first encounter with a chicken nugget was sitting in the drivethrough with my sister listening eagerly as my dad order a 20-pack for dinner for the three of us. My mother must have been out of the state at dinnertime and she failed to leave specific instructions for cooking a casserole she’d prepared in advance.

I called my sister to ask what would happen at her house if she flew the coop. She said that no doubt her husband would visit the freezer aisle to make dinner for their only son. Given the historical

photo by Lonnie Kees

INGREDIENTS AND DIRECTIONS MUST BE

Marlana Walters, Proprietor The Everyday Gourmet

account of male meal preparation in the absence of our mother, I was surprised (and relieved) that she didn’t immediately respond that they would have a fast pass at the golden arches.

In an effort to change the direction from untimely departures to happier thoughts, my sister asked her son, “What is your favorite thing that I cook?” He quickly answered, “rice and gravy.” My sister was unflattered - probably because her revered recipe doesn’t involve scraping bits of meat or poultry from a roasting pan, whisking in flour until the lumps are gone and adding fresh cream until the perfect consistency is reached. The secret is out - my sister’s gravy is easy, it comes from a jar.

Sensing my sister’s irritation with the topic, I attempted to move the conversation in a positive direction. I suggested that she put her rice and gravy recipe on a card for her son to take when he leaves home. I explained, even though she doesn’t make her gravy from scratch, no doubt his wife will appreciate the fact that warming a jar of store-bought gravy and pouring it over rice will remind him of a childhood favorite. My sister was not amused and I have a very good feeling my nephew’s future wife will torture herself trying to recreate his mom’s gravy.

Men (and some women) need specific instructions when it comes to preparing certain dishes. Birds may know many things instinctively,

FOODWISE but there are still those feathered creatures - while in pursuit of a tasty insect that are stopped midflight by a pane of glass. However, instinct and common sense are sometimes ignored when following recipe directions. I was visiting with a lady not long ago and she disclosed a recipe disaster with one of her female offspring. She referred to Ree Drummond’s (commonly known in the culinary community as The Pioneer Woman) pot roast recipe. I couldn’t believe when she told me that had her daughter’s roast not been prepared in a LeCreuset enamel cast-iron Dutch oven, the fireman said she would have burned the house down.

When I read that the recipe had five stars and reviews from more than 400 people online, I was even more skeptical. If the recipe was hazardous or complicated, why hadn’t some blogger warned the public? Surely, the Pioneer Woman wouldn’t have instructed that a roast be cooked over medium-high heat on the stove-top for hours on end - unless, preheating the oven was only meant to warm up the kitchen. In defense of the young cook, I will say that the recipe does not specifically state that the Dutch oven should be put into the preheated oven to roast.

See for yourself.

PIONEER WOMAN’S PERFECT POT ROAST INGREDIENTS 2 or 3 tablespoons olive oil kosher salt 3 to 5 lbs chuck roast 2 onions 6 to 8 carrots black pepper 2 to 2 1/2 cups beef broth 3 or 4 fresh rosemary sprigs 2 or 3 fresh thyme sprigs DIRECTIONS 1. Preheat the oven to 275 degrees F. 2. Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and let it get really hot. While it heats, prepare the other ingredients.

3. Generously salt the chuck roast on both sides. Cut a couple of onions in half from root to tip, then cut off the tops and bottoms and peel off the papery skin. When the pot is very hot, place the onions in the oil and brown on both sides, about a minute per side. Remove the onions to a plate.

4. Next, thoroughly wash - but don’t peel the carrots.

Cut them roughly into two-inch slices. Throw the carrots into the same (very hot) pot. Toss them around until slightly brown, about a minute or so. The point here is to get a nice color started on the outside of the vegetables, not to cook them.

5. Remove the carrots from the pot and allow the pot to get really hot again. Add another tablespoon of oil to the pan. Place the roast in the pot and sear it, about a minute per side. Remove roast to rest on a plate.

6. Now, with the burner on high, deglaze the pot by adding one cup of the beef stock, whisking constantly.

The point of deglazing is to loosen all the burned, flavorful bits from the bottom of the pot.

7. When most of the bits are loosened, place the meat back in the pot, followed by the carrots and onions. Pour enough beef stock into the pot to cover the meat halfway.

8. Next put in the fresh rosemary and thyme sprigs. The fresh herbs absolutely make this dish.

Tuck them into the juice to ensure that the flavors are distributed throughout the pot.

9. Now, just cover the pot and roast for three to five hours, depending on the size of your roast. For a three-pound roast, allow for 3 to 3 1/2 hours. For a five-pound roast, allow for a 4 to 5 hour cooking time. Don’t disrupt the roast during the cooking process.

10. When the cooking time is over, check the roast for doneness; a fork should go in easily and the meat should be very tender. Remove the meat to a cutting board and slice against the grain.

Congratulations, you’re a hero.

– If you put the roast into the oven. Otherwise, you may need a hero with a fire extinguisher in tow to save dinner from disaster. When in doubt, spell it out. I’ve noticed that some of my recipes make complete sense to me, but some details just can’t be assumed or omitted.

My husband makes his own special concoction that my kids call Daddy’s Dip. It’s very simple, all you need is a blender, a block of cream cheese and a can of Rotel tomatoes blended until smooth. My kids love it and watch their daddy make it all the time. I haven’t made a card for the recipe box, because some kitchen lessons are best taught by example. While other cooking experience is acquired by setting off the fire alarm to realize something’s not right with a recipe.

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard people say, I wish I had the recipe for my dad’s hot sauce, my grandmother’s blueberry cobbler or my aunt’s muffins. Ingredients and directions must be written down for family favorite recipes if they are going to be passed down to the next generation. Regardless of what you hope to teach your children or memories that you leave behind, I highly suggest starting a recipe box for each of your children or grandchildren. When they like a dish write it down and put it in the box. I can promise you it will be a treasured resource when they leave the nest.

Sources Drummond, Ree. 2006 {2015}.

Thepioneerwoman.com, Retrieved from The Pioneer Woman online: www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/reedrummond/perfect-pot-roast-recipe.html{2015} Smith, Elizabeth Zimmerman. 2013 {2015}.

Sialis.org, Woodstock CT. Retrieved from Sialis online: http://www.sialis.org {2015}

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THE T HE NORTHSIDE NORTHSIDE S SUN UN MAGAZINE MAGAZINE

WEDDING POLICY P ease type doub e space your art c e n story format No forms are used by the Sun • A wr te-ups shou d be subm tted by the f rst day of the month for the fo ow ng month s pub cat on ( e November 1st s dead ne for the December ssue) • P ease nc ude photos At east one photo w be featured w th each wedd ng and engagement announcement More w be used as space perm ts • f a stamped se f-addressed enve ope s enc osed every effort w be made to return photos • P ease nc ude a dayt me phone number on a re eases • Payment s due w th subm ss on Wedd ng announcements are $150 Engagement announcements are $90 Ma to Norths de Sun Magaz ne P O Box 16709 Jackson 39236 or e-ma to mmye@norths desun com De ver es are a so accepted at our off ce at 246 Br arwood Dr For more nformat on

ca 601 957 1123

The Sun accep s no espons b y o unso c ed s o es a wo k o pho og aphs

Britt BrittannEliz Elizababeteth WWinford inford & Adam MaarrshshalalllHeHerrington rington WEDDINGS

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M MAY AY 2 4 , 2 2014 014

AT T H E H HOME OME A AND N D FA R M O F T H HE BR DE GRANDPAREN AND ND J JEAN E A N W I N F ORD ORD E B RID E’S G R A N D PA R E N T S , S TA N A VAUGHAN SS SS PP V AU G H A N , M I S SIS SIP PI

M r . a n d M r s . A d a m M a r s h a l l H e r r i n gt o n

rittan Elizabeth Winford and Adam Marshall Herrington were united in marriage May 24 at 6 p.m. at the home and farm of her grandparents, Stan and Jean Winford of Vaughan. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Barry Winford of Ridgeland. She is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Stan Winford, and Harriet Sulcer and the late Lou Sulcer. The bridegroom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Mark Herrington of Laurel. He is the grandson of Dorothy Herrington and the late Sonny Herrington, and Mr. and Mrs. James Ta almadge Adams. Offficiating the ceremony was the Rev. Steven Smith. Nuptial music was presented by Jennifer Smith and Josh McCafffrey.

Escorted by her father, the bride wore a designer gown of ivory lace with a sweetheart neckline, delicate sleeves and a dramatic key hole back. Her hair was adorned with wildflowers that matched her bouquet. She carried a bouquet of a mixture of pastel roses, lambs ears, and wildflowers tied with lace that matched her dress. Maid of honor was Aiden Christine Winford, sister of the bride. Bridesmaids were Leslie Anne Aker,, Katie Alexander, Maribeth Barfield, Allison Boyd, Leigh Dexter Morson, Anna Reid and Jennifer Reid. They wore lace sundresses of various styles in crème, and carried smaller unique versions of the bride’s bouquet. The bride’s proxy was Brinley Harris, cousin of the bride. Maleah Harris and Olivia Winford, cousins of the bride, were attendants. Flower girls were Addison Sulcer, cousin of the bride, and Emma Blanco.

The bridegroom’s father was best man. Groomsmen were Austin Herrington, brother of the bridegroom; Garner Bell, Robbie Jefcoat, Sawyer Smith and Seth Steelman. Ringbearers were Dylan and Tristan Sulcer,, cousins of the bride.

Following the ceremony, the bride’s parents hosted a reception on the family grounds. A bridesmaids luncheon was held at Mint the day before the wedding. Hostesses were friends of the mother of the bride. On the eve of the wedding, the bridegroom’s parents honored the couple with a rehearsal dinner at the Old Capitol Inn. Following a wedding trip to the Dominican Republic, the couple is at home in Ridgeland.

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Rachel Ellison Jones & Jerry Linzy Gressett II

WEDDINGS

R

NOVEMBER 8, 2014 CASHIERS, N.C.

Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Linzy Gressett II

achel Ellison Jones and Jerry Linzy Gressett II were united in marriage November 8, 2014 at the Church of the Good Shepherd in Cashiers, N.C. The bride is the daughter of William Timothy Jones of Madison and Mrs. Phil Otis Nelson Jr. of Jackson. She is the granddaughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Bert H. Jones of McComb and the late Mr. and Mrs. Clemens O’Reilly “CO” Sudbeck of Lexington.

She is a graduate of Jackson Preparatory School, Rhodes College in Memphis, and Tulane Law School in New Orleans. She is the manager of government affairs and economic development at the University of Mississippi Medical Center.

The bridegroom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Linzy Gressett of Carthage. He is the grandson of the late Clyde and Clara Gressett of Chunky, and the late Oyd and Melba Garner of Carthage.

The bridegroom is a graduate of Carthage High School, East Central Community College in Decatur, and Mississippi State University. He is an interactive designer at Maris, West and Baker.

The ceremony was officiated by the Rev. Virginia Monroe. Organist Dr. Jack Jones provided the music. Meg Meagher, niece of the bride, and Kelly Nations were Scripture readers. Annie Taylor, niece of the bride, was the crucifer.

Dr. Becky Taylor of Nashville, sister of the bride, was matron of honor. Bridesmaids were Sarabeth Jones of Denver, sister of the bride; and Nesa Ulyshen of Boston, sister of the bridegroom.

The bridegroom’s father was best man.

Groomsmen were Michael Johnston of Carthage, cousin of the bridegroom; and John Ulyshen of Boston, brother-in-law of the bridegroom.

Following the ceremony, the bride’s parents hosted a reception at the Cashiers home of the bride’s mother and stepfather. Guests danced to music of the Chuck Courtenay band and enjoyed food by Tim Lundy of Highlands, N.C. The bride’s cake was a three-tiered chocolate cake with vanilla buttercream icing. The bridegroom’s cake was carrot cake with white chocolate cream cheese icing.

On the evening before the wedding, a dinner was held at the High Hampton Inn, hosted by the parents of the bridegroom.

After a wedding trip to Costa Rica, the couple is at home in Jackson.

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Heather Leigh Moore & Matthew Michael Verret

WEDDINGS

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DECEMBER 27, 2014

CATHEDRAL OF SAINT PETER THE APOSTLE • JACKSON, MISSISSIPPI

Mr. and Mrs. Matthew Michael Verret

eather Leigh Moore and Matthew Michael Verret were united in marriage at the Cathedral of Saint Peter the Apostle, December 27 at 2 p.m. The ceremony was officiated by Father Anthony Quyet.

The bride is the daughter of Mrs. Samuel Wesley Moore Jr. of Jackson and the late Mr. Moore. She is the granddaughter of Dr. Carroll Edward (Dee) Jarvis of Jackson and the late Mrs. Jarvis, Dorothy Blair of Jackson and Howard Blair of Mendenhall, and the late Samuel Wesley Moore of Oklahoma City.

The bridegroom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Randy Quentin Verret of Patterson, La. He is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Raymond John Verret of Patterson, and Mrs. Henry Davis Verret of Bayou Vista, La., and the late Mr. Verret.

Nuptial music was presented by James Scoggins, organist; Wayne Linehan, trumpeter; and Angel Azzarra, soloist.

Given in marriage by her brother Christopher Moore, the bride wore a designer private collection gown of white satin with a wrapped sweetheart bodice that cinched at the natural waist accompanied by a band of rhinestones, Swarovski crystals and freshwater pearls that led down to a box pleated full skirt that buttoned down to the chapel length train. Her custom-made royal cathedral length veil was adorned with Swarovski crystals and freshwater pearls. She carried a bouquet of white hydrangea, Eskimo roses and Vendella roses tied with ivory ribbon.

The wedding ring of the bride’s late father and the rosary of the bridegroom’s late sister were both tied to the bride’s bouquet.

Matron of honor was Traci Blair Strickland of Memphis, aunt of the bride. Angelica Rose Gorman of Albuquerque was the maid of honor. Bridesmaids were Laura Plum Hardin, Katrina Faye James, Kelly Elizabeth Jarvis, cousin of the bride, Anna Marsh Selby, and Lindy West Lewis, all of Jackson, and Mary Caroline Wallace of Washington, D.C. They wore A-line gowns of luminescent purple taffeta that featured a key-hole back. They carried mixed bouquets consisting of red roses, red berries, dusty miller and hanging amaranthus tied with gold ribbon.

Avery Elizabeth Bell was flower girl and Andrew Davis Strickland, cousin of the bride, was ring bearer. Alyssa Marie Cart and Mary Lauren Verret, cousins of the bridegroom, were program attendants.

Readers were Gaylnn Cordray of Patterson, and Susannah Morse of Jackson.

The bridegroom’s father was best man. Groomsmen were Brandon Lee Barnes of Starkville; Jack Nickolas Dakota Bodree of Cantonment, Fla.; Lance Joseph Champagne of Bossier City, La.; Brett Tanner Hightower of Dallas; John Richard Darce Jr. and Jacob John Verret, brother of the bridegroom, both of Baton Rouge; Charles Michael Herrin Jr. and Jeremy Dean Desoto, both of Jackson. Ushers were William Harrison Jones and Carter Blair Strickland, cousins of the bride, and JD “Jake” Bell III. Following the ceremony, the bride’s mother hosted a reception at the Fairview Inn, where guests dined and danced to the music of Hunter Gibson and the Gators.

A bridesmaid luncheon was given by Patsy Marsh, Anna Marsh Selby, Barbara Wallace and Molly Wallace honoring the bride the day before the wedding at River Hills Club. On the eve of the wedding, the bridegroom’s parents entertained with a rehearsal dinner at the King Edward Hotel.

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Bessie Burton Jones & John Stewart Howorth

ENGAGEMENTS

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JUNE 6, 2015

RIVERDALE RANCH • WEST, MISSISSIPPI

r. and Mrs. John Griffin Jones of Jackson announce the engagement of their daughter, Bessie Burton Jones, to John Stewart Howorth, son of the Honorable Andrew Kincannon Howorth and the late Susan Barksdale Howorth of Oxford.

The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Howard Spencer Jones and the late Elizabeth Griffin Jones of Jackson, and the late Dr. and Mrs. Myron Lamar Arrington of Prentiss. Miss Jones is named for her maternal grandmother, Mrs. Arrington, who was the former Bessie Burton Morgan of Oxford.

The prospective bridegroom is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. James Love Barksdale and the late Sally McDonnell Barksdale of Jackson, and the late Dr. and Mrs. Marion Beckett Howorth Jr. of Oxford.

Miss Jones is a 2009 graduate of St. Andrew’s Episcopal School and a 2013 graduate of the University of Mississippi. At Ole Miss, she was an active member of the Chi Omega sorority, representing the university on the National Panhellenic Council. She is a manager and buyer for Neilson’s Department Store on the square in Oxford.

Howorth is a 2010 graduate of Oxford High School. He attended the University of Missouri where he was a member of the Sigma Chi fraternity. After his freshman year, he transferred to the University of Mississippi where he was an active member of the Ole Miss rugby team. He a sales representative for the Tom James custom clothing company in Oxford.

The couple will exchange vows June 6 at Riverdale Ranch in West.

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Kara Brooke McDowell & Daniel Thomas Payne JUNE 20, 2015

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH • JACKSON, MISSISSIPPI

Kara Brooke McDowell, Daniel Thomas Payne

r. and Mrs. Peter Cary Mistal of Brandon and Mr. and Mrs. Joseph William McDowell of Ridgeland announce the engagement of their daughter, Kara Brooke McDowell, to Daniel Thomas Payne, son of Mr. and Mrs. John Thomas Payne of Ridgeland.

The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Imogene Erskine Smith of Lexington, Ky., and the late George Clyde Smith of Richmond, Ky., and the late Lavonne Scoggin McDowell and William Gaines McDowell of Butler, Ala. The prospective bridegroom is the grandson of Aster Bunch Jones of Madison and the late James Mack Jones, and Eilleen Downs Payne of Jackson and the late Bill Hitch Payne.

Miss McDowell is a 2008 graduate of Madison Central High School. In 2011, she completed her studies in pre-nursing at Mississippi State University where she was a member of Chi Omega sorority. In 2013 Miss McDowell received a bachelor’s degree in nursing from the University of Mississippi Medical Center and was inducted into Sigma Theta Tau Honor Society. She is a registered nurse in the cardiovascular intensive care unit at UMMC. Payne is a 2006 graduate of Jackson Academy. He is an Eagle Scout and was graduated from Mississippi State University with a bachelor’s degree in business administration with an emphasis in risk management, insurance, and financial planning. At MSU he was a member of Kappa Sigma fraternity. He is a consultant in the policy service department at Southern Farm Bureau Life Insurance Company.

The couple will exchange vows the evening of June 20 at First Baptist Church of Jackson, with a reception to follow at The Ivy in Flowood. j u n e

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M Nathan Daniel Peden, Meghan Layne Benson

Meghan Layne Benson & Nathan Daniel Peden JULY 17, 2015

THE SOUTH • JACKSON, MISSISSIPPI

r. and Mrs. Richard Allen Benson of Madison announce the engagement of their daughter, Meghan Layne Benson, to Nathan Daniel Peden, son of Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Peden of Meridian.

The bride-elect is the granddaughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Robert E. (Bob) Manning and the late Mr. and Mrs. J.W. Benson, all of Jackson. The prospective bridegroom is the grandson of Jewel Peden and Elizabeth Koch, and the late Freddie Peden, and Mr. and Mrs. David Koch.

Miss Benson is a 2005 graduate of Madison Ridgeland Academy, a 2009 graduate of Mississippi State University, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in science and a 2012 graduate of Mississippi College, where she earned a master’s in education. At State, she was a member of Delta Delta Delta sorority. She has been a fifth-grade tacher for the past four years at Madison Station Elementary, and will teach at Pillow Academy in Greenwood in the fall.

Peden is a 2006 graduate of Northeast Lauderdale High School in Meridian. Upon receiving a full athletic baseball scholarship to East Mississippi Community College, he earned a forestry technician associate degree. He then majored in forestry at Mississippi State University with a minor in wildlife management. Peden is the CFO and director of wildlife programs at Mississippi Delta Ducks, Deer and Farmland Properties in Greenwood.

The couple will exchange vows the evening of July 17 at The South with a reception to follow.

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Brittany Diana Brewer & William Edward Lindley JULY 25, 2015

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH • CLINTON, MISSISSIPPI

r. and Mrs. Kenneth A. Brewer of Clinton announce the engagement of their daughter, Brittany Diana Brewer, to William Edward Lindley, son of Mr. and Mrs. Mark Lindley, and Mr. and Mrs. Jimmy Wright, all of Brandon.

Miss Brewer is the granddaughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth V. Wilson, and the late Mr. and Mrs. Ernest A. Brewer.

The bride-elect is a graduate of Clinton High School and Mississippi State University, where she obtained a bachelor’s degree in elementary education. She is pursuing her master’s at Mississippi College. She is a second-grade teacher at Stonebridge Elementary in Brandon.

Lindley is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Sammy Nicholson of Brandon, and the late Mr. and Mrs. William E. Lindley of Jackson.

The prospective bridegroom is a graduate of Jackson Preparatory School and the University of Southern Mississippi. He is a criminal interdiction police officer for the Pearl Police Department.

The couple will exchange vows at 6 p.m. July 25 at First Baptist Church in Clinton.

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M Mary Lacy Montgomery

Mary Lacy Montgomery & Benjamin Webb Sabin JUNE 27, 2015

SUB ROSA • POCAHONTAS, MISSISSIPPI

r. and Mrs. Thomas Percy Montgomery of Hattiesburg announce the engagement of their daughter, Mary Lacy Montgomery, to Benjamin Webb Sabin, son of Mr. and Mrs. John Cocke Sabin of Bay St. Louis, formerly of Greenwood. The bride-elect is the granddaughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Fredric James Dickey of Magee, and the late Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Percival Montgomery of Pickens.

Miss Montgomery is a 1995 graduate of Hattiesburg High School and a 2000 graduate of the University of Mississippi, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in education/fashion merchandising and minored in business administration. Miss Montgomery was a member of Delta Delta Delta sorority. She works with her father and brother as an independent insurance agent of Mississippi in employee benefits.

The prospective bridegroom is the grandson of Mrs. Aubrey Ethan Adams, the late Mr. Adams of Carthage, and the late Mr. and Mrs. Albert Kirby Sabin Jr. of Greenwood. Sabin is a 1997 graduate of Pillow Academy, a 2001 graduate of Mississippi State University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, and a 2006 graduate of the University of Mississippi, where he received a Master of Business Administration. Sabin was a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity. He has been a financial and estate advisor for Strategic Financial Partners in Memphis since 2006.

The couple were introduced by a close friend and met on a blind date in Greenwood October 30, 2013.

The couple will exchange vows June 27 at Sub Rosa in Pocahontas.

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Paige Elaine Noble & Andrew Thomas Mitchell JUNE 20, 2015

PROVINE CHAPEL, MISSISSIPPI COLLEGE • CLINTON, MISSISSIPPI

r. and Mrs. Gary Noble of Flowood announce the engagement of their daughter, Paige Elaine Noble, to Andrew Thomas Mitchell, son of Lydia Mitchell of Hattiesburg, and Mr. and Mrs. Mark Mitchell of Chicago.

The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Hargett and Mr. and Mrs. Harold Noble.

Miss Noble is a 2007 graduate of Jackson Preparatory School and a 2012 graduate of Hinds Community College School of Nursing, where she earned an associate degree of nursing. She was an Ole Miss Diamond Girl, a member of Kappa Delta sorority, a sophomore homecoming maid, and a member of the Junior Panhellenic Council. She is a registered nurse and co-owner of HeartLife CPR Solutions.

The prospective bridegroom is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. John Scarborough and the Rev. and Mrs. Jerry Mitchell. He is a 2009 graduate of Presbyterian Christian School in Hattiesburg, and a 2013 graduate of Mississippi College, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology with an emphasis in sports management. Mitchell was a member of Civitan Men’s Club, a chaplain of Civitan, and on the dean’s list.

The couple met at Grace Community Church, where they are currently members.

They will exchange vows June 20 at Provine Chapel of Mississippi College in Clinton.

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Norma Katharine Butts & Wesley Barton Wagner

ENGAGEMENTS

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JUNE 13, 2015

PARIS-YATES CHAPEL • OXFORD, MISSISSIPPI

r. and Mrs. Benjamin Butts of Madison announce the engagement of their daughter, Norma Katharine Butts, to Wesley Barton Wagner, son of Mr. and Mrs. David Edward Wagner of Florence.

The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Peter M. Daschbach of Jackson, and Norma Fix Butts and the late Lampkin Herbert Butts of Laurel. Miss Butts is a 2009 graduate of Madison Central High School and a 2013 Phi Beta Kappa graduate of the University of Mississippi. She was a member of the Barksdale Honors College and Delta Gamma sorority. She received her master’s in economics from the University of Texas in Austin and is an analyst for the Claro Group in Houston, Texas.

The prospective bridegroom is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Friend “Bucky” Walker Jr. of Taylorsville and Jerry Ray Benton of Troy, Ala., and Janelle King Wagner and the late Dean Edward Wagner of Taylorsville. Wagner is a 2007 graduate of Florence High School and a 2011 graduate of the University of Mississippi where he received a bachelor’s degree in biology and was a member of Saint Anthony Hall (Delta Psi fraternity). He will complete his doctorate of pharmacy at Lipscomb University in Nashville in May. The couple will exchange vows at Paris-Yates Chapel in Oxford June 13.

Norma Katharine Butts, Wesley Barton Wagner

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Sarah Elizabeth Ford & Scott Dampeer McVey JUNE 20, 2015

OXFORD UNIVERSITY METHODIST CHURCH • OXFORD, MISSISSIPPI

r. and Mrs. Walter Cliff Ford announce the engagement of their daughter, Sarah Elizabeth Ford, to Scott Dampeer McVey, son of Dr. and Mrs. Eric Alexander McVey III, of Jackson. The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Robert Coulter and the late Frances Davis Coulter and the late Jim Davis, all of Meridian, and Mr. and Mrs. Walter Joe Ford of Cape Girardeau, Mo. Miss Ford is a 2008 honors graduate of Central High School. She attended the University of Mississippi where she received a Bachelor of Science degree and graduated in 2012. At Ole Miss, Miss Ford was a member of the Chi Omega sorority. She lives in Jackson and works for the Craddock family.

The prospective bridegroom is the grandson of the late Mr. and Mrs. Eric McVey Jr. of Macon, and Betty Gresham and the late John Gresham of Oxord. McVey is a 2008 honors graduate of Jackson Preparatory School. He is a 2012 honors graduate of the University of Mississippi with a bachelor’s degree in business administration and a major in managerial finance. He was a member of the Sigma Alpha Lambda National Leadership and Honors Organization. At Ole Miss he was a member of the Phi Delta fraternity where he served as recruitment chair in 2010 and social chair in 2011. McVey is a financial advisor at Merrill Lynch Wealth Management Firm.

The couple will exchange vows at Oxford University Methodist Church, June 20.

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Amy Elizabeth Fountain & Dr. Joseph Luke Gatlin JUNE 27, 2015

FOREST BAPTIST CHURCH • FOREST, MISSISSIPPI

Amy Elizabeth Fountain, Dr. Joseph Luke Gatlin

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r. and Mrs. Roy Jefferson Fountain of Forest announce the engagement of their daughter, Amy Elizabeth Fountain, to Dr. Joseph Luke Gatlin, son of Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan Dale Gatlin of Pickens.

The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Mrs. John Collins Hewes and the late Mr. Hewes of Woodville, and the late Mr. and Mrs. Carl Singley Fountain of Forest. The prospective bridegroom is the grandson of the late Mr. and Mrs. Hugh Grafton Randel of Pickens, and the late Mr. and Mrs. Aubrey Elijah Gatlin of Camden.

Miss Fountain is a graduate of Forest High School. She is a magna cum laude graduate of Mississippi College, where she received a Bachelor of Science degree in biology. She earned her Master and Doctor of Physical Therapy degrees from the University of Mississippi Medical Center and is employed at Methodist Rehabilitation Center in Jackson.

Dr. Gatlin is a homeschool graduate, and he graduated summa cum laude from Mississippi College with a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry/medical science. He earned his medical degree from the University of Mississippi Medical Center, where he also completed a residency in diagnostic radiology. Dr. Gatlin earned a fellowship in body imaging from Northwestern University in Chicago. He is employed as a radiologist with Lakeland Radiologists P.A., of Jackson.

The couple will exchange vows June 27 at 2:30 p.m. at Forest Baptist Church in Forest, Mississippi.

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Beth Ann West & Michael David Roach JULY 18, 2015

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH • JACKSON, MISSISSIPPI

Michael David Roach, Beth Ann West

r. and Mrs. Jerel Lee West Jr. of Natchez announce the engagement of their daughter, Beth Ann West, to Dr. Michael David Roach, son of Cynthia Aycock Roach and Mr. and Mrs. Joseph William Roach of Madison.

The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Mrs. Jerel Lee West Sr. and the late Mr. West of Lafayette, and the late Mr. and Mr. Ralph L. Wooldridge of Ruston, La. The prospective bridegroom is the grandson of Mrs. S.L. Aycock and the late Mr. Aycock of Rose Hill, and the late Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Junior Roach of Newton.

Miss West is a graduate of Millsaps College, where she was a member of Delta Delta Delta sorority, and the University of Louisiana at Monroe, where she earned a Master of Arts in teaching. She is the international baccalaureate program coordinator at Davis Magnet School.

Dr. Roach is a graduate of Mississippi State University, where he was a member of Theta Tau fraternity and earned a Master of Science in biological engineering. He also attended the University of Mississippi Medical Center and received a doctorate of philosophy in biomedical materials science in 2010. He is an assistant professor at the School of Dentistry at the University of Mississippi Medical Center.

The couple will exchange vows July 18 in the chapel at First Baptist Church of Jackson where Dr. Roach is a deacon.

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Britton Frances Yerger & Jeremy Royce Vaughn JUNE 27, 2015

CHAPEL OF THE CROSS • MADISON, MISSISSIPPI

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r. and Mrs. Michael Graeme Yerger of Madison announce the engagement of their daughter, Britton Frances Yerger, to Jeremy Royce Vaughn, son of Mr. and Mrs. Johnny Lee Lyle of Jackson and Raymond Royce Vaughn of Madison.

The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Roy Bailey Braswell of Brandon and Dr. and Mrs. Louis Buford Yerger of Madison. The prospective bridegroom is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Glen Lariccia of Clinton and the late Jean Sciple of Madison and Mr. and Mrs. Donald O’Neal Vaughn of Brookhaven and Willie Clyde Vaughn of Jackson.

Miss Yerger is a 2009 graduate of Madison Ridgeland Academy where she was selected to the MRA Hall of Fame. A 2013 graduate of the University of Mississippi, Miss Yerger earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree with an emphasis in graphic design. She was a member of Phi Mu sorority. At Ole Miss, her art was chosen to be part of a permanent display in the student union and also is featured in banks across the Southeast as winner of Community Trust Bank’s 100th anniversary art contest. She is a graphic designer at Vaughn Design in Oxford and is owner of Britton Yerger Design, a fine art and graphic design company.

Vaughn is a 1998 graduate of Jackson Academy. He was graduated from the University of Mississippi in 2002 earning his Bachelor of Arts degree with a minor in business. He served as president of Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity and was a member of Order of Omega. He is the owner of Vaughn Design advertising agency in Oxford since 2006.

The couple will exchange vows June 27 at the Chapel of the Cross in Madison.

Alison Elizabeth O’Neal & Rodney Dale McMinn

ENGAGEMENTS

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JUNE 6, 2015

IN THE HOME OF THE BRIDE’S PARENTS • WIGGINS, MISSISSIPPI

Alison Elizabeth O’Neal

r. and Mrs. John Hatten O’Neal Jr. of Wiggins announce the engagement of their daughter, Alison Elizabeth O’Neal, to Rodney Dale McMinn, son of Mr. and Mrs. Ronald D. McMinn of Maben. The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Marvin Robert Green of Gulfport, and the late Mr. and Mrs. John Hatten O’Neal Sr. of Wiggins.

The prospective bridegroom is the grandson of the late Mr. and Mrs. Doyle Howard Fulgham of Maben, and the late Mr. and Mrs. Harold McMinn of Mathiston.

Miss O’Neal is a 1996 graduate of George County High School and 2000 summa cum laude graduate of Mississippi State University, where she received a bachelor’s degree in political science. At Mississippi State, she was a John C. Stennis Scholar and served as president of Delta Gamma sorority. Miss O’Neal received her juris doctor in 2003 from the University of Mississippi School of Law, where she was a member of the moot court board. She is associated with the Mississippi attorney general’s office as a special assistant attorney general in the civil litigation division.

McMinn is a 1998 graduate of Starkville Academy and a 2003 graduate of Mississippi State University, where he received a bachelor’s degree in landscape architecture. At Mississippi State, he was a member of Sigma Chi fraternity. McMinn is associated with The Haygood Group LLC in Ridgeland, where he is a designer and project manager.

The couple will exchange vows the evening of June 6 at the home of the bride’s parents in Wiggins.

Julia Leigh Rogers & Christopher Brandon Loecher

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JULY 11, 2015

PROVIDENCE HILL FARM • JACKSON, MISSISSIPPI

r. and Mrs. Gary Jackson Rogers of Madison announce the engagement of their daughter, Julia Leigh Rogers, to Christopher Brandon Loecher, son of Mr. and Mrs. Timothy John Loecher of Leesburg.

The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Mrs. Douglas Clyde Stone of Columbus and the late Mr. Stone, and Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Jackson Rogers of Georgetown, Texas.

Miss Rogers is a 2006 graduate, with honors, of Madison Central High School. She is pursuing a degree in marketing at Holmes Community College where she was inducted into the Phi Theta Kappa Honorary Society. Miss Rogers is an internet sales associate with Wilson Premier Hyundai.

The prospective bridegroom is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Donald Hale Gilmer of Leesburg, and Kevin George Loecher of Rochester, Minn., and the late Mrs. Loecher.

Loecher is a 2007 graduate, with honors, of Brandon High School. He is a 2011 graduate of Belhaven University where he earned a bachelor’s degree in theatre production and was inducted into the Alpha Psi Omega Theatre Honor Society. Loecher is the associate director of worship and audio production at Crossgates Baptist Church.

The couple will exchange vows July 11 at Providence Hill Farm.

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M Eric David Nimon, Laurie Allison Selman

Laurie Allison Selman & Eric David Nimon JUNE 2015 MAUI, HAWAII

r. and Mrs. John Barry Selman of Madison announce the engagement of their daughter, Laurie Allison Selman, to Eric David Nimon, son of Carol Nimon Scott and the late Ralph David Archie Nimon.

The bride-elect is the granddaughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Herbert Winsyl Selman of Madison and the late Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Mickle Hayward of Oxford.

The prospective bridgegroom is the grandson of the late Mr. and Mrs. Archie Nimon of McComb and the late Mr. and Mrs. Joe Aikens of Jackson.

Miss Selman is a graduate of Jackson Preparatory School, and further pursued her education at Milligan College where she earned a bachelor’s in nursing degree. In 2011, she earned a master’s in nursing from the University of Mississippi Medical Center. Miss Selman specializes in urogynecology. She is a nurse practitioner at Women’s Specialty Center.

A Jackson native, Nimon attended Hinds Community College where he earned an associate degree as a physical therapy assistant. He also earned a bachelor’s degree in sports medicine from the University of Southern Mississippi. He is the co-owner of Innovative Practice Solutions.

The couple met in 2009 while both working in the medical field. They will exchange vows in June on the island of Maui, Hawaii.

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Mary Alexander Street & Peyton Scot Thigpen JULY 11, 2015

ST. JAMES EPISCOPAL CHURCH • JACKSON, MISSISSIPPI

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r. and Mrs. G. Martin Street Jr. announce the engagement of their daughter, Mary Alexander Street, to Peyton Scot Thigpen, son of Mr. and Mrs. Scot A. Thigpen. The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Shirley L. McAllister of Houston, Texas, and the late Rev. John N. McAllister, and the late Mr. and Mrs. George M. Street of Oxford.

The prospective bridegroom is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Ray Inkster, Morris Lee Thigpen, and Sue Godbold, all of Jackson.

Miss Street is a 2008 graduate of Oxford High School and a 2012 graduate of the University of Mississippi, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in public policy leadership. At Ole Miss, she was a member of Kappa Delta sorority and selected for membership in Lambda Sigma, Mortar Board and Omicron Delta Kappa honor societies. In her sophomore year, she was elected as Associated Student Body treasurer and in her senior year, she was elected a campus favorite and Miss Ole Miss. She is a teacher in the Indianola School District through Teach for America.

Thigpen is a 2009 graduate of Jackson Academy and a 2013 cum laude graduate of the University of Mississippi, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism. At Ole Miss, he was a member of Sigma Nu fraternity, served as vice president of the interfraternity council, and was selected for membership in the National Society of Collegiate Scholars. He is a teacher in the Humphreys County School District through Teach for America.

The couple will be married July 11 at St. James Episcopal Church.

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PARTIES AND CELEBRATIONS

Mary Kat McCurdy and Brent Smith engagement celebration

Anna Frame, Judy Davis, Angie Smith, Carolyn Cloud, Beth Peterson, Christi Hardy, Judy Menist

engagement party Brent Smith, Jeffrey and Bess McGuire, Jeremy Taylor

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An engagement celebration honoring Brent Smith and Mary Kat McCurdy was held recently at the home of Beth Peterson. Co-hosts and hostesses were Carolyn and Bob Cloud, Judy Davis, Anna and Andy Frame, Christi and David Hardy, Judy and Carl Menist, and Wanda and Chris Purser.

Ann Margaret Mullins, Stan and Angie Smith, Russell and Ann McCurdy, Carrie Strickler, Brent Smith, Mary Kat McCurdy, Chad Smith, Judy Mullins, Graham and Jordan Smith, Anna Lou, Ken and Trey Mullins

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Nini Mullis and Michael O’Keefe wedding celebration

Robert and Claudia Hauberg, Michael and Nini O’Keefe, Betty and Michael Carithers

Michael and Nini O’Keefe

wedding celebration

A wedding celebration was held recently in the Woodland Hills home of Holly and Alan Lange honoring Nini Mullis O’Keefe and Michael O’Keefe. The couple married January 24 at the Cathedral of the Incarnation in Nashville.

Co-hosts and hostesses were the bridegroom’s parents Claudia and Robert Hauberg and Ken O’Keefe, Suzanne and Hunter Cade, Virginia and Fred Ezelle, Emma George Hamilton, Martha and Mike Hess, Jan and Bill Kientz, Margaret and Coleman Lowery, Bettye and Dick Mason, Charlotte and Richard McNeel, Mary

Martha and Michael Hess

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and Al Nicols, Barbara and Barry Plunkett, Pamela Prather, Jackie and Jack Root, Lynn and Gaines Sturdivant, and Melinda Wilkinson.

Guests enjoyed a cocktail buffet and music by Beverly and Rebekah Miller on piano and cello. Takeaway sweets were also provided.

The couple lives in Nashville where the bride is a senior program manager for Healthways Inc. The bridegroom is vice president of engineering for Edo Interactive, a software developer, and is currently on assignment in London.

Pamela Prather, Charlotte McNeel

Jackie and Jack Root

Chuck Ferrell, Patrick O’Keefe

Harriett Brewer, Linda Farr

Ann Crayton, Melissa and Bubba O’Keefe, Charlotte McNeel

Alan McCall, Pat Ladnier

Jane Morse, Mary Lynn, Diane Morse

Loyd and Mary Marbury

Howard and Joanne Cheek, Melinda Wilkinson, Kitty Rushing

Rita and Larry Johnson, Frank and Susan Duke

John and Mary Morgan

Mary Ellen Dillard, Emma George Hamilton, Elizabeth Ingram

Larry and Toodie Jones

Ouida and Wayne Drinkwater

Betty Carithers, Harriet Brewer, Jan Kientz j u n e

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Gaines and Lynn Sturdivant, Bill and Jan Kientz

Joe and Dottie Donaldson

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Nubbin and Maureen Herring, Andy and Paige Hunt

Holly Lange, Michael and Nini O’Keefe, Alan Lange

Howard Jones, Susan Shands Jones

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Summer Workshops Madison Square Center for the Arts June 15-18 l Ages 3-9

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June 8-19 l Ages 10 & up | July 20-23 l Ages 3-9

Explore Dance this Summer!

balletms.com l 601.960.1560

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PARTIES AND CELEBRATIONS

Kara McDowell and Dan Payne engagement celebration

Tom, Jennifer and Dan Payne, Kara McDowell, Megan and Carter Mascagni

Kara McDowell, Dan Payne

engagement party

An engagement celebration honoring Kara McDowell and Dan Payne was recently held in the home of Maury and Kyle Ball. The couple will be married June 20 at First Baptist Church Jackson.

Co-hosts and hostesses were Michelle and Charles Alexander, Valerie and Mike Box, Flo and Frank Bryan, Diana and Andrew Covington, Mary Jane and Nate Cox,

Gail and Peter Mistal, Kara McDowell, Dan Payne, Jenna and Chad Davis

Dan Payne, Kara, Mary Jo and Joe McDowell

Pam Cox, Kaye and George Donald, Mona and Ted Enstrom, Rhonda and Bert Green, Bridget and Jimmy Harkins, Jane and Mark Hinkle, Sheri and Joe Iupe, Patty and Matt Jensen, Madalan and Eric Lennep, Kay and Richard McRee, Paula and John Murphy, Pam and Barry Smith, Carolyn and Jim Walden, Ree Walden and Mike Bishop, Becky and Chris Waterer, Susan and Joel Waters.

Chris Harkins, Dan Payne, Patrick Nassar, Travis Donald, Patrick Brawner, Phillip Sistrunk, Alex Collum, Mark McRee

Amber Alexander, Haley Thomason, Caroline Jordan, Laurie Morgan, Magan Bruton, Kayli Cobb, Anne Barry Bruton, Emily Keith, Laura Polk, Melissa Myers, Dayton Gamble, Lanna Daniels, Katy Barham, Jordan Thames, Haley Burks, Kristin Cox, Kayla Willis; (front) Nicole Garner, Allie Gamble, Kara McDowell, Meredith Schilling, Avery Truitt, Currie Fletcher, Sarah Enstrom, Logan Barlow j u n e

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PARTIES AND CELEBRATIONS

Kellie Oberkirch and Will Johnson engagement celebration

John and Marian Kennedy, Mary Blair and Mary John Johnson, Kellie Oberkirch, Will, Blair, Bill and Frances Johnson

Kellie Oberkirch, Will Johnson

engagement party

A celebration honoring the engagement of Kellie Oberkirch and Will Johnson was held recently in the home of Dana and David Traxler.

Co-hosts and hostesses were Natalie and Tommy Abernethy, Vickie Lynn and Lamar Adams, Alon Bee, Gennie and Darrell Black, Alison and Bill Brown, Leslie and Philip Carpenter, Betty Lynn and Rod Freeman, Terre and Hardy Harris, Dianne and Wyatt Hazard, Ann and Gene Henson, Evie and Kirk Hines, Paula and Jimmy Hood, Andrea and Gene Horner, Paula and Randy James, Anne and Jim Jones, Marian and John Kennedy, Donna and Terrell Knight, Beth and Bob Lloyd, Libby and Mark Marley, Debbie and Joe McCaskill, Tammy and Anse McLaurin;

Jordan Hahn, Nicole Ramsey, Kelcey Nelson, Katelyn Shaughnessy, Molli Thornton, Sarah Cullins, Ashley Stauter, Lauren Richards

Also, Lawana and Devere McLennan, Susan and David McNamara, Lesley and Rush Mosby, Diane and Johnny Neely, Betsy and George Ritter, Nancy and Al Roberts, Scottie and Burdette Russ, Kathryn and Lee Sams, Gail Savage, Geri and Preston Smith, Sissy and Larry Stacy, June and Harper Stone, Dawn and Elliott Thomas, Sylvia and Bo Tighe, Marsha and Gerald Thompson, Dee and Lee White, Bonnie and Gray Wiggers, and Bubba Young.

The couple exchanged vows May 23 at Saint Lawrence Catholic Church in Fairhope, Ala. Shown are scenes from the party.

Casey Davidson, Will Watts, Luke Laney, Jay Fowler, Ben James, Phillip Sandifer; (front) Will Johnson, David Traxler, Peter Kruger, Cameron Albriton

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Still S till have have questions? questions? Gives Gives us us a call: call: 957-1123 957-1123 or or e-mail e-mail jimmye@northsidesun.com jimmye@northsidesun.com 72

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It’s your life. Don’t surrender any more of it to obesity. Start the weight loss program backed by education and research from Mississippi’s only academic medical center.

Call and register for a free weight management info session at University Physicians–Grants Ferry.

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PARTIES AND CELEBRATIONS

Hannah James and Timothy Clark engagement party

Allen, LeAnn and Shelby Leigh Brewer, Jeff James, Ginny Kennedy, Judy James, Jean Clark, Hannah James, Timothy Clark, Sam, Holly and Hannah Clark

engagement party Timothy Clark, Hannah James

Joe and Jean Clark

Carley Robertson, Sloane Blair, Hannah James, Caroline Harris, Emily McBride 74

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The engagement of Hannah James to Timothy Clark was recently celebrated at the home of LeAnne and Allen Brewer of Madison. The bride-elect is the daughter of Jeff and Judy James. The prospective bridegroom is the son of Sam and Holly Clark.

Co-hosts and hostesses were LeAnn and Allen Brewer, Ginny Kennedy, and Emily and Kevin Wright.

The wedding will take place July 18, 6 p.m., at Covenant Presbyterian Church.

Shown are scenes from the party.

Hannah James, Mallory Kennedy

Kevin and Emily Wright

Allen and LeAnne Brewer, Ginny Kennedy, Timothy Clark, Hannah James, Emily and Kevin Wright

Kevin and Emily Wright, Ginny Kennedy, LeAnne and Allen Brewer

Parker Giroux, Lee Moseley, Timothy Clark, Elton Nguyen

Shannon and Jason James, Debbie and Tom James

Timothy Clark, Hannah James, Will Brewer, Catherine Caroon

Caroline Harris, Hannah James, Emily McBride

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EVENTS KIDNEY DRAWDOWN The $10,000 Uptown Drawdown benefiting the Mississippi Kidney Foundation was held recently at the Country Club of Jackson.

Celebrating 50 years, the event included a silent auction and art extravaganza. Wilson Stribling was master of ceremonies. Music was by the Bluz Boys Band.

Shown are scenes from the fund-raiser.

Gary and Becky Conley, Keith Bustin

Lee Parrott, Linda Farr, Lucy Mazzaferro, Brenda Dyson

Beth and Andrew Smith

John and Libba Wise, Olivia and Chris Champion

Stephanie and Derrick Tesseneer 78

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David and Kim Lyle

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Alice Luckett, Koki Ford

Doug and Beth Evans, Deborah Sivira, Dwight Whitfield

Mark and Mallie Earl

Naveen and Jasmine Sandhu

KIDNEY DRAWDOWN

Betsy Ritter, Laura Walters

Dyanne Ray, Stacey Donaldson, Naomi Ridgway

David and Vicki Sinclair, Hanna Whitley, Wes Pierce

Joe and Becky Brister

Tommy and Jane Norwood, Dan and Suzanne Stephens

Alah Clark, Tom Flowers

Myra and Bill Cook, Van and Susu Anderson

Randy and Sharon Tew

David and Cassie Carroll

Jeremy and Natalie Hutto

Natalie Arnemann, Janie Ramsey, Stephanie Ripey, Mary Anne Lefoldt j u n e

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KIDNEY DRAWDOWN

Floyd and Bean Sulser

Margaret Palmer, Jean Bush, Karen Seago, Frances Jean Neely,

Kevin and Peggy Stump

John and Gail Sweat

Kathy and Ashley Waring n o r t h s i d e

Daniel Rayburn, Teri Johnson

Jeff and Jessica Thames, Matthew Hartzog, Cheryle Sims

Carrie and Robert Denault

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Susan and Hibbett Neel, Liddy Simmerman

Jeff and Marie Rickels s u n

Traci Traxler, Eric Goodman

Margaret Thomas, Theresa Fuller

Bridgett Fielder, Eddie Maloney

George and Mary Wilkinson

EVENTS SPECIAL OLYMPICS GALA The Special Olympics Mississippi Countdown to Victory and Awards Ceremony was held recently at the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame.

The event included a $5,000 drawdown, live and silent auctions, the Race to Taste from metro area restaurants, live music, and awards for Special Olympics Mississippi athletes and volunteers. The event was hosted by honorary chair Patrick House, winner of “The Bigger Loser.�

Eddie and William Middleton

Derek Finley, Shane Ford

Meg Garton, Katy Adair

Rebecca McCarty, Jenny Woodruff, Lindsay Buford

Patrick House, Julie Basel, Jamie and Bryant Himes

John Fourcade, Tony Bahou

Monty Permenter, David Browman

Ben Rogers, Joseph Tate, Jesse Wims, Teddy Underwood

Kiara Smith, Delisa Watts

Tom and Lisa Browning

Lexie and Steve Gosselin j u n e

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EVENTS JON D. WILLIAMS COTILLION The parents night for the 22nd annual Jon D. Williams Cotillion was held recently at Sparkman Auditorium at the ag museum.

Shown are scenes from the evening.

Alice Williams, Turner Easley

Isabella and Jose Flores, Lele Rooks

Kerri and James Smith

Dave Andress, Iliana Ramos, Whitney and John Henry Andress

Ursula and Kevin May

Wyatt and Ruth Emmerich 82

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Sierra, Steve and Sage Sharp

Brooke Mullen, Ann Mabry Dean, Brooks Forster

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Julianna Copeland, Hudson Bridges, Aubrey Moak, Ford Hudson

Lanis and Lilly Noble

Jack and Kate Varner

JON D. WILLIAMS COTILLION

Pam and Nick Nail

Lesley and Will Davis, Miller and Sherry Gleason

Brad and Alice Williams, Julianna and Edward Copeland

Ellie Lingle, Owen Ridgeway, Lila Robertson, James Smith

Sophie and Pete Hays

Hensley Moulder, Paul Wilburn

Jimmy and Dora Thomas-Bustillos

Kim and Mason Nichols

Mackenzie Coburn, Ava Crawford

Lisa and Rush Harmon

Thaxton and Karen Perch

Will and Clea Evans j u n e

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EVENTS NEW STAGE TOAST TO BROADWAY New Stage Theatre recently presented dinner and a musical salute to celebrated composers of the Great White Way - past and present. The event, “A Toast to Broadway,� was held at the Fairview Inn. The benefit also included a silent auction for art, dinners, first editions, and Broadway-themed items.

Shown are scenes from the fund-raiser.

Joe Morris, Betty Allin, Larry Maze

Lynn and John Mahoney

Gloria Hill, Kaye Herring, Pat Krakos

Rosemary and Jerry Thomas, Emily and Jim Dossett, Sarah Jane and Alex Alston

Franceska and Melvin Roland 84

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Mary Helen and Bo Bowen

Bill Osborne, Lauren Kalka, Francine Reynolds

Kaye Herring, Lynda and Robert Lesley

Bill McCarty, Clarisse and Steve McDonald, Paul Vanderberry

Larry Stephens, John Goerlich

Art and Gail Doty

NEW STAGE TOAST TO BROADWAY

Holmes and Gayle Adams

Tom and Gail Papa, Bill McCarty

Jane Alexander, Thad and Sandra McLaurin, Barbara Austin

Leah Harris, Stephen and Marla Oshinsky

Rita Hawthorne, Vicki Burton, Patty Wilcher, Lisa McCoy

Community is in our DNA. www.millsaps.edu

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EVENTS METRO BALLET TEA PARTY The Mississippi Metropolitan Ballet, under the artistic direction of Jennifer Beasley, presented the full-length ballet “Beauty and the Beast” recently at Jackson Academy Performing Arts Center. A special opportunity to meet the cast was offered at Belle’s Tea Party following the Sunday performance. Besides treats, participants were able to meet the dancers and have photos made with them, and had the opportunity to visit Belle’s wardrobe.

Cameron Benton, Georgia Weeks, Hayden Benton

Ariel Soto, Caroline Jones, Sophia Bach

Laura Lee Hetzel, Caroline Jones, Hart Maley

Mattie Grace Morris, Jamie Floyd, Josie Nasekos; (middle row) Tracey McKay, Stacy Everett; (front) Millie McKay, Susannah Floyd, Sarah Bray Everett

Kelly Alexander, Kathleen Cooley, Bryleigh and Brenna Alexander, Kennedy and Brittany Orr

Stella Matthews, Jennifer Beasley, Ava Grace Revell 86

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Sophie Harper, Hannah Rae

Jennifer Beasley, Taylor Binkley, Crystal Skelton

Kathy Saucier-Jones, Lauren Mann; (front) Noah Saucier, Hannah Rae, Ava Grace Revell, Baylie Townsend

Candy and Lucy Tyra

Madeline Evans, Caroline Pierce

METRO BALLET TEA PARTY

Jan Hinson, Claire Hickman

Kale Mackey, Haley and Lisa Speights

Josie Nosekos, Bella Bach, Ariel Soto, Laura Lee Boyles, Mae Mae Cerro

Joseph Pawlik, Sophie Frischemeier, Benjamin Pawlik

Leigh Campbell, Kris Rhodes, William Campbell; (front) Ellie, Lawson and Sela Campbell

R E P U B L I C A N

/VoteMcRae

/VoteMcRae

/VoteMcRae

A Legacy of Leadership …

For David McRae, hard work runs in the family. A 4th generation Mississippian, David’s great grandfather founded McRae’s Department Store in 1902 that grew into a community staple for many of our families. Today, David and his father run their small business, McRae Investments, and spend their time in civic and charitable initiatives that strengthen Mississippi.

Member of the Metro Capital Area Habitat for Humanity building homes for deserving families Board Member for the American Heart Association and active with the Law School at Mississippi College Secured funds and capital for the McRae Children’s Fountains

Committed to Our Future.

An investor, attorney, husband and father of two young children, David is ready to put his legal and private sector experience to work in the Treasurer’s office to build a stronger, more prosperous future for all of us.

w w w. Vo t e M c R a e . c o m

Competently manage your money and clean up the mess in the Treasurer’s office Root out public corruption to eliminate the waste, fraud, and abuse to ensure that our priorities are met first Increase transparency to create more open and accountable government and end no-bid contracts Lead with integrity and commit himself to being a full-time Treasurer that improves and strengthens the agency, and look for ways to save tax dollars in all areas of government Fight to restore state’s credit rating and improve economic development efforts Paid Pa id ffor or bbyy Fr Friiendds of Davidd M McR cRae j u n e

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EVENTS TASTE OF MISSISSIPPI BENEFIT The 28th annual Blue Cross Blue Shield Taste of Mississippi, a benefit for Stewpot Community Services Inc., was held recently at Highland Village. Shown are scenes from the benefit.

Kevin Ackerman, Rachel Anthony, Matt Lee

Nancy and Al Roberts, Mary Allen Bennett

Michael and Claire Boler

Linnae Hartley, Lisa Nicholas n o r t h s i d e

Gabriel and Brandon Black s u n

David and Rebekah Moulder

Lee Parrott, Raul Sierra, Boo Noble, Charles Parrott

Hunter Black, Natalie and Cy Parks, Marcus Singletary

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Anna and Brady Clark

Ellis and Shirley Tucker

Bryan and Jane Anna Barksdale

TASTE OF MISSISSIPPI BENEFIT

Merrida and Tara Coxwell

Cassi and Waverly Strange, Paula Stewart Strange, Anna and Taylor Usry

Diann Hesdoreffer, Martha Simonton, Angele Henderson

Lee and Margaret Toney, Wonda and Daniel Quan

Emily and Patrick Feathers

Pat Kennedy, Eltorry Ficklin, Gwen Dawkins

Nancy Russel, Rosemary Maxey

Rachel McFarland, Kiley Schultz

Cliff Osbon, Angela Reeder

Linda and Calvin Doughty

Sandra Barnett, Sabrina Yates, Tammy Robbins j u n e

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EVENTS LOVE OF ART For the Love of Art, an event benefiting the Mississippi Symphony Orchestra, was held recently at SummerHouse. Four Southern artists displayed their work: Brent Smith, Lauren Lachance, and Northsiders May Benton and Dyann Gunter.

For the Love of Art was also supported by LEE Loves Local, a movement to encourage customers to shop local.

Shown are scenes from the event.

Todd Prince, Camille Holland

Jacque Moor, Molly Ferguson

Bradley Gantt, Jules Borne

Sunny Holliday, Johnny Gooch

Lisa Palmer, Marty Smith

Lisa Palmer, Lauren Lachance, Max Palmer, Mike Palmer, Danielle Rooney

Jennifer Kadar-Brown, Mary Courtney Johns, Brent Smith

the

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EVENTS MS BURN FOUNDATION HUNKS AND HEELS Hunks and Heels, a womanless beauty pageant to benefit the Mississippi Burn Foundation, was held recently at Jaco’s Tacos and One Block East.

Jill Conner Browne was master of ceremonies and former Miss Mississippi Chelsea Rick was one of the judges. Several awards were given in various categories plus a People’s Choice Award.

Joey and Deidra Champion

Erin Hargrave, Ally Palombaro, Nell Hargrave

Rochell Culp, Tandra and Kayla Dodd, Ashley Smith

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Noel Daniels, Jill Conner Browne s u n

Paul and Cindy Tauchar

Brenda Davidson, Lin Bobbitt, Sarah Wallace, Linda Rester

Penny Danford, Glenn Partrick, Theresa Bailey, Brandy Deck

Robert and Carrie Denault

Lisa Dyer, Tina Ruffin, Krista Markham

Rod and Jean-Nicolette Nixon

Jamie Woods, Amanda Fontaine

MS BURN FOUNDATION HUNKS AND HEELS

Daniel and Julie Cross

Rebecca Alexander, Phillip Pace, Laurie Cutrer

David Broadaway, Carolyn Harrison, Marti Rawls, Pat Ladnier, Chris Carmichael

Rocky and Ty Wilkins

Jim Kemp, Pammi Hancock, John MacLennon, Cindy Clegg, Mike Bush, Matt Arrowsmith, Olga Abramavich

and so do our readers!

Don’t let your party end when the guests go home.

Keep it going by submitting pictures from it to the Northside Sun Magazine.

It’s Easy. Just make sure when using a digital camera to have the setting at the highest resolution possible and e-mail them to us or submit a CD. Or the old fashioned way using film prints still works great!!! Type up something about the fun event and identify everyone in the photos and it’s done.

And remember we like photos exclusive to us.

píáää=Ü~îÉ=èìÉëíáçåë\=dáîÉ = = = ìë=~=Å~ääW=VRTJNNOO=çê=ÉJã~áä = = = = = àáããóÉ]åçêíÜëáÇÉëìåKÅçã j u n e

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EVENTS COMMUNITY FOUNDATION BIRTHDAY In recognition of its founding 20 years ago, the Community Foundation of Greater Jackson recently hosted a birthday celebration at The Cedars. Special recognition was given to those leaders whose earliest and unwavering support made it possible for the foundation to invest more than $35 million in the local community for charitable causes.

Ellen and Charles Johnson, Jean Medley

Betsy and Kane Ditto

Susan Frazier, Holly Lange, Erik Kegler

Howard and Susan Jones, Anthony Thomas, Jon Turner, Jamie Houston

Jackie Bailey, Seetha Srinivasan

Mike McRee, Don Potts 94

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Susan Hart, Stella Gray Sykes, Macy Hart

Con and Betty Maloney

Dick and Patsy Turner, Pam and Jon Turner, Charles and Judy Ferguson

Frances Jean Neely, Lisa Davis

Pete Sarullo, Jane Alexander

COMMUNITY FOUNDATION BIRTHDAY

George Penick, Lester Senter Wilson

Lisa and Albert Davis, Elta and Jim Johnson

Ann Young, Betsy Bradley, Betti and Walker Watters, David Bowen

Judy Wiener, Carol Penick

Harriet Kuykendall, Rita and Tamlea Wray, Charles Jackson

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EVENTS MS OPERA “TOSCA” PARTY The Mississippi Opera held a “Tosca” cast party in the home of Elbert and Betty Bivins.

The opera season concluded with Giacomo Puccini’s “Tosca,” at the Madison Square Center for the Arts.

Shown are scenes from the cast party.

Jerry and Shawn Morgan, Henderson Hall

Patty Wentworth, Tom Pearson

Chuck Runyan, Mary Atchley, Anthony Cloy, Merina Dillard

Monolito Smith, Maryann Kyle, Michael Nansel, Zack Rabin, Robert Grayson, Richard Nechamkin, Elana Gleason, Matthew Bischoff, Jonathan Hill; (front) Benajmin Warschawski

Tippy Garner, Elbert Bivins

Zack Rabin, Dennis Leoni

Joanna Hunt, Robert Grayson, Michael Nansel

Wendy Kulzer, Bill Henley

Jay Dean, Ouida Holland

Daivd Trigiani, Jay Dean, Hogan Allen, Maryann Kyle j u n e

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EVENTS OLE MISS CLUB The Central Mississippi Ole Miss Rebel Club winter meeting was held recently at the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame. Ole Miss head baseball coach Mike Bianco and Ole Miss Spirit recruiting analyst Yancy Porter were speakers.

Shown are scenes from the meeting.

Scott McVey, Dev Gaymes, Cliff Ford

Kimsey and Alan McCormick, Paul and Alice Moore

Jimmy Gallaher, PJ Lindsey

Mike Bianco, Bob Box, Keith Carter, Ralph Yelverton, Ross Bjork

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Mary Catherine Hammac, Becky Mitchell

Billy Ray Adams, Tom Rice, Art Doty

Chase and Hal Creel

Preston Smith, John Albriton

Bert Worley, Mike Helms

Hamp and Shannon Dye

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