FARM FRESH FLOWERS • HARKINS HIDEAWAY
TOP
20
A FRESH CHAPTER AT THE COTTON HOUSE
UNDER 40 OCTOBER 2025 OxfordMag.com Volume 9 | Issue 5 $4.95
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HERNANDO · OXFORD · RIDGELAND W W W. M A G NO L I A L I G H T I NG . COM OxfordMag.com 1
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2 October 2025
FEATURES 54
2025 TOP 20 UNDER 40
home & garden 20
Harkins' Hideaway
29
Fresh Farm Flowers From Farmstead Floral
arts & culture 10
Sanctuary Artists: Jeanette Jarmon & Britney McDonald
15
Jack Sonni's Final Release
food & drink 41
Revival of the Cotton House's Bar Plantain
52
Fall Recipes
54
2025 TOP 20 UNDER 40
OM in every issue 4 Contributors
5 Letter from the Editor
Healthy Living 46
Andrew's Journey With Oxford Surgical & Bariatric Clinic
8 Events
19 Book Picks
82 Out & About
OxfordMag.com 3
contributors Alyssa Schnugg, Associate Editor
Alyssa Schnugg is the senior reporter at The Oxford Eagle, covering community news, local government decisions, events and human interest stories in Oxford. She started working at the Eagle in 2007. She has been working as a community journalist for 25 years. She is a self-described “closet geek“who enjoys online games and is a proud mother of three adult children and grandmother to seven.
PUBLISHER
Rebecca Alexander
EDITOR
Amelia Ott
Davis Coen, Writer
Davis Coen is a freelance writer and newspaper reporter from Oxford by way of South Carolina. He’s had stories published in various local publications including Oxford Eagle, Oxford Citizen and Daily Journal. He also maintains a music career with over a dozen tours of Europe and regular airplay on SiriusXM Satellite Radio.
ASSOCIATE EDITOR Alyssa Schnugg
CONTRIBUTORS
Davis Coen Mary-Katherine Herrington MacKenna Sherer Bolton Smith
DESIGN
Victoria Hutton
Mary-Kathryn Herrington, Writer
Mary-Kathryn Herrington is co-owner of Herrington Jones Interiors, an interior design studio helping clients with remodels, new construction and home furnishings since 2017. A Memphis native, Herrington has called Oxford home for 25 years. She is a wife, business owner and a busy mother to three children. In addition, she has contributed to many local and regional publications, covering a range of topics, including many home design features.
MARKETING Trent Collier
ADMINISTRATION
Luke Westphal, Audience Development
MacKenna Sherer, Writer
MacKenna Sherer, originally from the suburbs of Chicago, is an undergraduate student at the University of Mississippi. She is pursuing a degree in Integrated Marketing and Communications and is expected to graduate in Spring 2026. MacKenna has been working closely with YAC to help promote local artists in the Oxford area through her writing. She enjoys all things music, spending time with her loved ones, and visiting new cities.
Bolton Smith, Contributor
A Tennessee native, Bolton Smith is an undergraduate student at the University of Mississippi, pursuing a degree in Integrated Marketing and Communications with plans to graduate in the spring of 2027. Passionate about fashion, she founded and operates Buttoned by B, a local sports button business. When she isn’t studying or working, Bolton enjoys spending time with friends and playing pickleball.
4 October 2025
from the editor
Can we all agree this September has been a gift? Usually, we’re melting into the pavement, but lately, we’ve had cool mornings, breezy afternoons, and evenings that make you want to sit outside just a little longer. Add in football season in full swing, and Oxford is practically humming with that contagious energy we all know and love. That same spirit is what makes this year’s Top 20 Under 40 so special. This class is truly exceptional. Made up of small business owners, educators, public servants, and so many others from different walks of life, they embody the drive and heart that keep Oxford thriving. They’re a reminder of just how much talent and passion we have right here at home. In addition to celebrating our Top 20 honorees, this issue is full of stories I’m so excited to share. Andrew’s incredible weight-loss journey will absolutely inspire you — it’s one of those reminders of just how strong the human spirit can be. We also take you inside the brand-new Bar Fontaine, located within the Cotton House in Cleveland. It’s a beautiful hotel with amazing food and Delta charm at every turn. And yes, we’ve tucked in some fun extras, too — fresh recipes and style pages that are worth bookmarking.
ON THE COVER
This issue is packed with stories I’m especially excited about. Andrew’s weight-loss journey is powerful and inspiring — the kind of story that makes you stop and think about what’s possible when you’ve got determination and support. We also take you inside the brand-new Cotton House in Cleveland. It’s a beautiful hotel with amazing food and Delta charm at every turn. And yes, we’ve tucked in some fun extras, too — fresh recipes and style pages that are worth bookmarking. On a personal note, this issue is bittersweet for me. It’s my last as the editor. I’ve loved shining a spotlight on the people and places that make Oxford so special, but my journey is taking me to the University, where my daughter has just started her freshman year. It feels right to step into this new season alongside her — even if I’m still wrapping my head around the fact that I’m officially a college mom! Thank you for letting me share these stories with you, for cheering on your neighbors, and for welcoming Oxford Magazine into your homes each month. Oxford will always be my heart.
Kimmee Nguyen
Signing off with love,
Photo by Bill Dabney Design by Victoria Hutton
OxfordMag.com 5
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$2,250,000 . 408 Van Buren Avenue 3 BR/2.5 BA . 2559 sqft .03 of a mile from the GROVE
$1,090,000 . 57 CR 178 3 BR/3.5 BA . 2981 sqft Oxford City School District
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$559,000 . 21 CR 472 Each unit 2 BR/2 BA . 1100 sqft
On 6 acres-room to build more units
$575,000 . 307 Combs 2 BR/2 BA . 1491 sqft Walking distance to the Square
$269,000 . 1111 Sole Cove 1 BR/1 BA . 550 sqft Rented until 7-31-2026 for $1,750 per month Agent Owned
$575,000 . 06 CR 3092 3 BR/3 BA . 2531 sqft 4.834 acres with a Shared Pond
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$2,095,000 . 60 CR 271 5 BR/3.5 BA . 4017 sqft
34 acres with a 5-acre stocked pond Container Home with Large Shed
PENDING
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PENDING
$685,000 . 230 CR 102 4 BR/3.5 BA . 3374 sqft Oxford School District
6 October 2025
$1,595,000 • 16 CR 211 4 BR/3.5 BA • 3,709 sqft Less than 2 miles from the Oxford Square
$1,400,000 . 1307 Chickasaw Rd. 2.653 acres perfect for Commercial Development Willing to subdivide
$2,550,000 . 1606 Hwy 30 East 3 Acres (Commercial Development Potential) Just Past 3-way
OxfordMag.com 7
WHAT TO DO IN OXFORD Oxford Community Market Tuesdays | 3-6pm Old Armory Pavilion
The Great Dying Oct 4 | 9pm Proud Larry's
Stephen Day Oct 15 | 9pm Proud Larry's
Jammy Buffet Oct 24 | 9pm Proud Larry's
Mid-Town Farmer’s Market Wednesdays | 8am-1pm Saturdays | 7-11am Mid-Town Shopping Center
Run of Champions 5k Oct 4 | 5am Grove Stage
Southall Oct 16 | 8pm The Lyric
The Runarounds Oct 25 | 9:30pm Proud Larry's
Greensky Bluegrass Oct 5 | 6pm The Lyric
City of Oxford Trunk or Treat Oct 16 | 5-7pm Oxford Conference Center
Nicholas Air 5k Oct 25 Nicholas Air Headquarters
The Head & The Heart Oct 7 | 8pm The Lyric
Austin Williams Oct 17 | 9pm Proud Larry's
Nick Shoulders Oct 26 |5pm Proud Larry's
Ben Sollee Oct 8 | 9pm Proud Larry's
Tina: The Tina Turner Musical Oct 17 | 7:30pm Ford Center
Grace Bowers Oct 30 |9pm Proud Larry's
Panic Stricken Oct 9 | 8pm The Lyric
Sunny Sweeney Oct 19 | 6:30pm Proud Larry's
Blue Mountain Oct 31 |9:30pm Proud Larry's
Cole Goodwin Oct 9 | 9pm Proud Larry's
Cameron Whitcomb Oct 23 | 8pm The Lyric
The Molly Ringwalds Oct 31 | 8:30pm The Lyric
Lafayette Co. Farm Market Thursdays | 3-6pm Multi-Purpose Arena / Buddy East Parkway Yazoo Oct 1 | 9:30pm Proud Larry's Rattlesnake Milk Oct 2 | 9pm Proud Larry's Michael Farris Smith & The Smokes Oct 3 | 8pm Proud Larry's
8 October 2025
pack the vaught OCTOBER 11
Ole Miss Football vs. Washington State Vaught-Hemingway Stadium, Oxford, MS | 11:45 am
NOVEMBER 1
Ole Miss Football vs. South Carolina
Vaught-Hemingway Stadium, Oxford, MS | TBD: 2:30-3:30 or 5-7pm
NOVEMBER 8
Ole Miss Football vs. The Citadel
Vaught-Hemingway Stadium, Oxford, MS | 12:00pm
NOVEMBER 15
Ole Miss Football vs. Florida
Vaught-Hemingway Stadium, Oxford, MS | TBD: 2:30-3:30 or 5-7pm
OxfordMag.com 9
From Riverbanks to Canvas: Jeanette Jarmon’s Life in Art BY MACKENNA SHERER
A
mongst its 2,350-mile stretch, inspiration stirs quietly beneath the surface of the Mississippi River. Born and raised in Vicksburg, Mississippi, artist Jeanette Jarmon spent her youth amongst the embankments, enchanted by the lapping water on the sandbars. Water encompassed her childhood memories: from boating to local islands down the river, to learning to ski on Lake Centennial and Eagle Lake, Jarmon’s call to artistry was answered by nature. Her desire to create sparked by a simple experience: her mother sketching a woman’s profile, fit with radiant hair. The moment left a lasting impression on young Jarmon, who continued to pursue drawing. Her Aunt Doris recognized the spark of creativity, placing a #2 pencil, typing paper, and clipboard into Jarmon’s hands. The Sears Catalog was quickly added to her tool selection, serving as model silhouettes to learn proportion, while penciled illustrations from the encyclopedia became references for drawing. As she grew, both in skill and ambition, Jarmon sought higher education in Clinton, MS. Her connection with the natural world fueled her path toward a distinguished career as an artist and educator, earning a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Education and Art from Mississippi College, along with a National Board Certification. Art by JNet was born in 1991, as Jarmon nurtured her business in freelance artistry in tandem with teaching. She wove community projects in adjacence to education and creativity, through vibrant murals, inspiring educational videos, and public art. Her acclaimed video series, The Creative Child, became a beacon for statewide staff development. She expresses her passion for contributing to public art across Mississippi—from painting a commissioned piece for a Starkville Chamber of Commerce fundraiser, to transforming a large street electrical box into public art in Jackson. Embodying abstract, realist, and nonobjective styles across a wide range of media, Jarmon continues to create from the nostalgia of her outdoor-filled childhood. Her love for nature echoes in each contribution to Mississippi, integrating the beauty of land and water to every piece.
10 October 2025
Mission Canyon, 8”x36”, acrylic. Won Grand Champion Award at Montana Seed Show 2025.
Jeanette Jarmon in front of the Boathouse Gallery, where her art is displayed.
Tibbee Wildflowers, 36”x 24”, acrylic.
Painting in progress. Jeanette's studio space is perfectly nestled into a corner of her house, overlooking a nearby creek
Top: Morning Mist (MS pond), 24”x30” acrylic. Bottom: Creekside Celebration, 36”x48”, acrylic. Many of her collections reflect personal trials: she touches upon the struggle of work-life balance as a stay at home mother of 4, an educator, commissioner, and artist. Each piece charts her path toward a sense of self, while integrating the flora and fauna of the South. “I’ve painted lots of landscapes in different light and mist- lots of blooming flowers along with waterscapes.” says Jarmon on the inspiration of her work. “We have such great color in Mississippi. I’ve painted lots of children and dogs and cats and homes that people are proud of.”
After leading a landlocked life in Clinton for 35 years, Jarmon is now nestled high in the wilderness of Tibbee Creek. Upon the top of a bluff, her “Tibbee Treehouse” offers a place of peace and restfulness for her to create. She spends her time paddling the Buffalo River, drifting along Tibbee Creek and the Tenn-Tom Waterway; remaining closely tied to the wild beauty that inspires her series paintings. Jeanette Jarmon’s individual pieces and series can be viewed by appointment at the Boathouse Gallery or on her website jeanettejarmon.com
OxfordMag.com 11
Britney McDonald: Reimagining Discarded Treasures Into Captivating Art BY MACKENNA SHERER
T
he beauty of art is in the eye of the beholder — where others may see scrapped material and a recycling bin, Britney McDonald sees the spark of possibility. In her hands, each piece is molded to breathe life into the unused, the left behind, and the seemingly unnecessary. McDonald uses her artistic abilities to infuse her work with a new purpose of beauty and wonder. Native to Mississippi, McDonald grew up immersed in the natural world. Her first
sources of inspiration were associated with the vast woods and winding rivers of the southern state. Hiking the outdoors taught her the value of slowing down and appreciating the overlooked; from small flowers forcing their way through the sidewalk to the moss colonies on a stone, McDonald recognized small beauties just waiting to be appreciated. That same mindset shaped her art as she chases the thrill of granting discarded items a new life.
Toby the Leo Wuji Doll, sculpture, 2023.
12 October 2025
Britney McDonald
Elora, acrylic painting, 2024.
Imagination, oil painting, 2017. “Mississippi is where my creativity is rooted and is constantly renewed.” McDonald states. “It’s that mix of memory, nature, and imagination that really fuels my creative process.” She spends much of her time wandering the wilderness, or the aisles of the thrift stores, hunting for her new artistic opportunity. The ability to transform the ordinary into something magical and impactful became the foundation of her work. With more than 10 years of professional experience, McDonald’s line of work follows ceramics, painting, and of course, her unique upcycled pieces. Her signature pieces, named “Wuji Dolls”, are mixedmedia creations composed from
Imperfect Self Portrait, collage, painting, and embroidery thread, 2024. repurposed stuffed animals. Sculpting ceramic onto them, the one-of-a-kind reincarnations are crafted from the past stories they may have lived with the second chance to provide a new artistic purpose. McDonald can be found creating in her “funky little world of possibility.” The aroma of patchouli drifts through the studio air, as music fills the cozy space. Her place of work embodies a conjoined energy of retro and naturalistic, adorned with houseplants and secondhand treasures. She hopes those who peer upon her creative environment are inspired to craft something unique of their own. For the past 4 years, McDonald has showcased her work at various shows and
markets, as well as participated in mentorships and workshops. She takes enjoyment from sharing her artwork and skills across Northern Mississippi, finding gratitude in meeting the diverse walks of life that are impacted by her work. She hopes to add to the magic of Mississippi through her ability to blend sustainability and storytelling, while contributing her unique practice to the soulful art community. Britney McDonald’s work can be viewed further on her company Instagram, @ sixth_dimension, and her Wuji Dollz creations on their individual Instagram, @WujiDollz.
OxfordMag.com 13
14 October 2025
A Powerful Sendoff: Sagamore Book Release Honors Jack Sonni’s Final Work BY DAVIS COEN
O
n Sunday, August 3rd, friends, fans, and literary supporters gathered at Proud Larry’s in Oxford to celebrate the release of “Sagamore,” the debut novel by the late Jack Sonni. The event featured readings by local authors, a performance by Sonni’s band The Leisure Class, and on-site book sales hosted by Square Books - fitting tributes to a man who left his mark on both the literary and musical communities. Sonni, best remembered by many as the “Other Guitar Player” in the classic rock band Dire Straits, spent his last years after a life on the road in Taylor, Mississippi, where he became a beloved member of the
local creative scene. Jack collaborated with musicians and writers in the area, and immersed himself in the rhythms and culture of the South. His untimely passing on August 30, 2023, at age 68, came not long after finishing “Sagamore,” his first and only novel.
OxfordMag.com 15
More than just a posthumous release, Sagamore stands as a bold and lasting literary achievement—a voice that, even in silence, still has something powerful to say.
Now available through indie book label Cool Dog Sound, “Sagamore” is a powerful historical work set in 1930s Pennsylvania coal-mining country, near where Jack grew up. Though the setting may seem far from Mississippi, the novel’s themes of oppression and resilience strike a chord that’s familiar. It reads like a Southern novel at heart. It’s about hard places, harder choices, and the folks who persist despite them. Although much of the novel is set against the snowy backdrop of the Allegheny Mountains, it feels Southern in its moral weight and tension. It’s no wonder Sonni chose Mississippi as his home, since his work shares a spiritual common ground with many of its great writers. At the heart of the story is Corky Trunzo, a young ItalianAmerican boy growing up in the bleak, unforgiving town of Sagamore. As Corky comes of age amid poverty and prejudice, Jack Sonni, photo by Sonia Farnsworth
16 October 2025
he finds himself pitted against a violent state game warden named Ed Markle, who terrorizes immigrant hunters under the pretense of law enforcement - killing pets and people alike, all while hiding behind the authority of his badge. What unfolds is a gritty tale and portrait of a community fighting to survive against unchecked power. Among the most unforgettable characters is Corky’s grandmother, Gina Ferraro - a tough matriarch with possible Mafia ties - who embodies the novel’s sense of justice and quiet defiance. Her strength becomes the spiritual core of the book, which moves with the urgency of a thriller but has the emotional depth of great literature. Another strong woman is Serafina, a striking beauty with fearless confidence that becomes alluring to those around her, as she bravely navigates the dangers of being an Italian in America during The Great Depression. The novel also contains flashes of the
musical world the author inhabited. In one standout scene, Corky and a friend stumble into a juke joint while holed up in Mississippi on the way to New Orleans. And meet a legendary bluesman - blending Jack’s lifelong love of music with his fiction. Far from a casual side project, the novel is serious and skillful and shows both a historian’s curiosity and a storyteller’s heart. The tone and style bring to mind William Faulkner and Flannery O’Connor, while its subject matter - racial and ethnic bias, and survival against all odds - feels urgent and contemporary. With his emotionally charged yet lean prose, Jack captures the tension of the ‘30s while addressing struggles that remain relevant today. More than just a posthumous release, “Sagamore” stands as a bold and lasting literary achievement. Those who attended the event at Proud Larry’s were not only paying tribute to a friend and neighbor but also celebrating the arrival
of a voice that, even in silence, still has something powerful to say. By the end of the evening, it was clear that Jack’s literary voice had resonated as strongly as his musical one. "The turnout for the Sagamore release party was really gratifying,” said Tim Lee, of Cool Dog Sound. “So many people had a hand in making this book happen, and it was great to have them all together with so many others of Jack's friends and family. The vibe and overall spirit of the event definitely exceeded all expectations." Award-winning local author Michael Farris Smith, who was the MC for the event, said, "It was a night that I think is an example of what makes Oxford a special community, celebrating one of our own. I'm sure Jack would have been over the moon with the turnout and the great vibes that rose from the evening." The book is available now through cooldogsound.com.
OxfordMag.com 17
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READ THIS BOOK
Book Picks Jude Burke-Lewis Recommendations from
Square Books
The Most Power Word BY JOSHUA CLARK & JUDY CLARK
Dominion BY ADDIE E. CITCHENS
House of Smoke BY JOHN T. EDGE
Why has Mississippi produced more acclaimed literature than any other region in history? This new volume, featuring original, never-before published interviews with writers including Donna Tartt, Richard Ford, Ellen Gilchrist, Barry Hannah, Larry Brown and many more, illustrates just why that is. Rife with humor, horror, and hope, this symphony of narratives is woven through with supporting excerpts from literature, archives, histories, and statistics.
The sins of a favorite son rock a small Mississippi town in Dominion, the debut novel by Clarksdale-born author Addie E. Citchens. A brilliantly crafted Black Southern family drama told with captivating force, humor, and tenderness, the novel wrestles with the many brutal, sinister ways in which we are shaped by fear and patriarchy, and studies how we might yet choose to break free. *SIGNED COPIES AVAILABLE
In this unflinching and moving memoir, author, educator, TV host and Oxford resident John T. Edge takes us on a quest for home in a South that has both held him close and pushed him away, as he tries and fails and tries again to rewrite the stories he inherited. Beginning in Georgia and concluding in Mississippi, his search spans the Deep South and charts a very American story of the truth telling and soul searching it takes to love your people and your place. *SIGNED COPIES AVAILABLE
The Loneliness of Sonia & Sunny BY KIRAN DESAI
Stories From Ole Miss Baseball BY CHASE PARHAM & JEFF ROBERSON, WITH A FOREWORD BY ARCHIE MANNING
Will There Ever Be Another You BY PATRICIA LOCKWOOD
Almost 20 years in the making, The Loneliness of Sonia and Sunny, by the Booker Prize-winning author of The Inheritance of Loss, is the sweeping tale of two young people whose fates intersect and diverge across continents and years, and who must navigate the many forces that shape their lives: country, class, race, history, and the complicated bonds that link one generation to the next. A love story, a family saga, and a rich novel of ideas, it is the most ambitious and accomplished work yet by one of our greatest novelists - and it has already been longlisted for this year’s Booker Prize. *SIGNED COPIES AVAILABLE
Relive the many highlights of the Ole Miss baseball team over the years with this new coffee table book, featuring stories of many of the greatest players and coaches. Perfect for any fan of the game - Stories from Ole Miss Baseball hits it out of the park! *SIGNED COPIES AVAILABLE
Amid a global pandemic, one young woman is trying to keep the pieces together – of her family, stunned by a devastating loss, and of her mind, left mangled and misfiring from a mystifying disease. Will There Ever Be Another You is the brain-shredding, phosphorescent story of one woman’s dissolution and her attempt to create a new way of thinking, as well as a profound investigation into what keeps us alive in times of unprecedented disorientation and loss, from one of our most original writers. *SIGNED COPIES AVAILABLE
OxfordMag.com 19
Harkins’ Hideaway
Built to last and made to live on Lyles Drive BY MARY-KATHRYN HERRINGTON, HERRINGTON JONES INTERIORS PHOTOS BY SNAPSOLD
20 October 2025
HOME
& GARDEN
OxfordMag.com 21
A HOP FROM THE SQUARE
Oxford’s Favorites
A SKIP TO THE GROVE
ALL UNDER ONE ROOF
�ank you, Oxford. We’re honored to be named: Best Hotel in Oxford Best Kept Secret: Nightbird Best Swanky Bar: Nightbird 425 S LAMAR BLVD | THEOLIVERHOTEL.COM | 662 371-1400
22 October 2025
N
Custom cabinetry, Taj Mahal countertops, and clear barstools create a light-filled kitchen that flows seamlessly into the living space.
The living room’s custom built-ins and bright windows open seamlessly to the formal dining area.
estled on a two acre, tree covered lot on Lyles Drive, in the original part of Grand Oaks, the Harkin’s home combines high end designer selected finishes, privacy and the perfect space for entertaining. The house which was originally built in 1992 has been renovated two times, with the Frank Tindall at the helm and boasts many finishes that are his signature style, from beautiful wood stains on the porch ceilings to thoughtfully planned cabinetry. However, in spite of the two renovations, the home maintains much of the original character but with many update features. Nothing feels cookie cutter, and it is clear that all the details were carefully selected to create this custom space. The brick exterior features Tudor stye trim, bringing an old world charm and character to the exterior. The many mature trees on the lot make the street almost invisible from the front door, so although it is located in the middle of a one of Oxford’s most desirable and growing neighborhoods, you immediately feel a sense of privacy! Upon entering the home on the main floor, you are immediately notice the light filled living room which features a large wood burning fireplace. All of the windows and doors have custom plantation shutters that feel decidedly Southern. The double doors open to a beautiful sun deck that overlooks the home’s gorgeous pool deck down below. Enjoying the outdoors is clearly a priority for the homeowners and this sun deck is just one of the many porches, patios and outdoor entertaining areas where the homeowners and their guests can take in the beauty of the outdoor spaces this home boasts. The kitchen is filled with high end appliances, coveted Taj Mahal countertops and lots of custom cabinetry that has been updated from the original construction. The dining room and adjoining butler’s pantry offer ample space for all of their entertaining supplies. Also, on the main floor is the large primary bedroom and bathroom. Access to the home’s screen porch, that connects to the sun deck, is off the primary suite. Useable year around thanks to the gas heaters and large fans this space is the perfect spot for a morning coffee overlooking the backyard and gorgeous pool below.
A bird’s-eye porch with a tree-house feel—airy, inviting, and connected to nature. OxfordMag.com 23
The bar’s open layout connects directly to the outdoor kitchen and pool, making entertaining effortless year-round. The home is three levels with the main floor being in the middle. Upstairs are three bedrooms. There is also a sitting area that the owners call the “birds nest” because of its view of the property! However, It’s when you go down to the recently renovated basement where any entertainers dream space unfolds in
24 October 2025
Just steps from the bar and kitchen, the game room blends playful energy with timeless style.
front of you. The basement boasts a second kitchen that features a Thermador 5 burner cooktop and oven, microwave, dishwasher, refrigerator, ice maker and a pantry in addition to a fully built out bar with two Thermador wine towers. A stainless steel backsplash and oversized Visual Comfort pendants adorn the bar and the Taj Mahal
quartzite countertops from upstairs again make an appearance down below. The downstairs living room has another wood burning fireplace, in addition to the billiards room. No details were left unplanned and so a second laundry was added in the downstairs space, the perfect spot for pool towels. Combining form and function, all the details were
OxfordMag.com 25
The outdoor kitchen combines a built-in grill, smoker, and bar seating for effortless poolside entertaining.
26 October 2025
A resort-style pool and hot tub set the scene for gatherings, relaxation, and year-round enjoyment.
Outdoor living at its best, with a sparkling pool framed by patios, seating, and lush landscaping.
considered in the renovation of this space. Also in the basement is the home’s office, a wood paneled room that has a decidedly masculine feel to the room, perhaps because of the steel door through which you enter to find a custom gun closet and safe room. The back wall of the basement is a is a series of doors and windows that open to the bluestone pool deck. The new gunnite pool was installed was in 2020 and features a shallow tanning ledge and a large hot tub that has 3 waterfalls cascading into the pool. There is also an outdoor kitchen, several covered porches
with infrared heaters all overlooking the very updated and attractive pool. It seems around every corner there is another outdoor space to enjoy! One unique feature is the chimney that serves the two indoor fireplaces has a built in smoker and grill on the backside, accessible from outside on a private porch for a unique cooking experience! To be right in the middle of Grand Oaks, the mature trees and a back yard that is over an acre provide a level of privacy that is hard to find in town and make this home the feel like an entertainer’s paradise!
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28 October 2025
HOME
& GARDEN
Planting a Vision, Growing a Community Q&A with Katherine Webb, Farmstead Florals
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30 October 2025
The Farmstead event space at dusk, with string lights and open skies creating a beautiful backdrop for gatherings.
What inspired you to start Farmstead Florals while still in college, and how has your vision evolved since those early days? My parents were vegetable farmers in South Louisiana, where I grew up, and they had a piece of property here in Oxford, now known as The Farmstead. While I was in college, as a way to explore what I was passionate about and decide if farming was for me, I started growing flowers. It did not take long for me to feel the immense satisfaction that comes from planting a seed, tending to it as it grows, and then ultimately picking a flower. After that first short summer I was hooked. I loved farming, loved the flowers and the joy they bring, and I loved Oxford. Over the years, the farm
has grown and slowly changed. I feel it’s been a natural growth and progression. Each season we reflect on the past and make incremental changes for the better, trying to reach new audiences along the way. The Oxford community and the florists we sell to have really pushed and elevated us to keep striving and growing. Growing from less than an acre to eight is Wesley, Katherine, and Maudie Webb at the incredible! What was one Mid-Town Farmers Market. of the biggest lessons you’ve learned along the will never get going anywhere. way? Seeds in the ground! That is We continuously plant and even over-plant to try and one of our unofficial mantras around here. In farming, there stay ahead of all of Mother Nature’s curveballs. Seeds are are so many things that are cheap, not having enough out of your control, but if flowers is expensive. you never start you OxfordMag.com 31
You’ve created such a special space with the Self-Serve Honor Stand. What do you love most about that community connection? Not having grown up in Oxford or gone to Ole Miss, I will say I was skeptical when my dad, Sandy Sharp, suggested I try a selfserve flower stand on the Square. Since 2017, when we first introduced the homemade honor stand, we made one rainy afternoon, the community has embraced it. I am proud to call Oxford home, a place where an honor stand in the middle of town can really work.
GROWING TIPS
For someone who wants to try growing a small cutting garden this fall, what’s your best beginner tip? I would first start with assessing where you are going to plant. You need to make sure that spot has at least 8 hours of sunlight a day, access to water, and good drainage. Most cut flowers require full sun, plenty of water, and fertilizer, and they do not like sitting in water. I would take a cup of the dirt to your county extension agency to get a soil test. Lafayette County’s is behind the DMV on Buddy East Parkway. This is a wonderful resource that the state of Mississippi provides; for $10 they will run tests on your sample and give you a diagnosis and a recipe to follow to get your soil where it needs to be. Healthy soil means healthy plants! Some easy plants to start for the spring are snapdragons, bachelor buttons, calendula, and orlaya. For the summer I suggest zinnias, cosmos, sunflowers, and basil!
The self-serve honor stand on the Oxford Square, located in the breezeway by Heartbreak Coffee.
When should home gardeners begin preparing their beds for fall planting? As soon as possible! We will be planting for spring 2026 during the month of September and in late winter. We will plant our first round of zinnias and other summer plants in April after our last frost date. Rows of flowers in full bloom at Farmstead Floral. 32 October 2025
Farm manager Olivia Young shows off a bouquet of freshly cut poppies.
What are some of your favorite flowers to plant in the fall early spring blooms? It is hard to choose a favorite! I have always loved snapdragons and peonies will forever be a showstopper, but what I love most about our spring flower offering is the diversity we can grow. Different varieties of ammi or Queen Anne’s lace, bachelor buttons, love-in-a-mist, bee balm,
orlaya, salvia, and yarrow; they all make up different points of interest in our bouquets that I think really help set them apart and make them all the more interesting. Are there hardy varieties that do well in North Mississippi’s winter climate? Potomac snapdragons and Amazon dianthus are two of the first hardy annuals that I ever grew and they continue to be on the roster every year and have yet to let me down. We have really tried to expand what we grow in the spring and continue to research and find new flowers that work in our climate. Icelandic poppies, foxglove, and delphinium are a few new flowers we have grown and have now
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become staples of our April, May, and June offerings. How do you care for the soil between seasons to keep it healthy and productive? We try to take a soil sample every year to stay on top of the nutritional needs of our fields. We also add organic material to amend the soil. Some of the leaves the city collects every winter make their way out to our farm and then get tilled into our rows. Because our dirt can be heavy with a decent amount of clay in it, we will also mix in gin
34 October 2025
Farmstead flowers set the stage for celebrations. Left: Seasonal dried wreath from Farmstead Floral.
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Exhibit on Display Aug. 23–Jan. 3 Lyrical steel curves, splashes of bright color, and provocative reflections on communication come together in an exhibition at the Mississippi Arts + Entertainment Experience (The MAX). Cecelia Moseley: Remnants of Language transforms a gallery into an immersive, deeply personal space. Oversized metal sculptures, prints, and a vivid acrylic installation explore what remains—and what is lost—when digital communication replaces handwriting. Moseley, a Mississippi native, invites us to consider how we’re adapting and what parts of us are changing.
EXPERIENCE THE STORIES. MEET THE LEGEND. ONLY AT THE MAX.
Black Folklore from the Mississippi Delta to Yale University SATURDAY, OCT. 25 AT 10 AM Join us for an unforgettable morning in conversation with Bill Ferris at 10 am Saturday, October 25. Ferris will share insights into his pioneering work as a folklorist and discuss the importance of Mississippi Black oral traditions of music, stories, and art as an enduring part of American culture. On view upstairs at The MAX from September 16 through November 15, The Early Films of William Ferris feature raw, riveting stories from B.B. King, preachers, inmates, quilt makers, and gospel singers—offering a rare glimpse into Black folklife. 36 October 2025
Hours: Tuesday–Saturday | 9 am–5 pm Downtown Meridian | msarts.org
trash from the Delta. Both of which are fortunately very abundant.
SEASONAL OFFERINGS
Mixed bouquet of fresh cuts.
Are there certain flowers or foliage you grow in the fall that are especially great for holiday arrangements? For Christmas wreaths and arrangements we look to the beauty in our landscaping. Our wreath bases are made of elaeagnus and we harvest branches from pine, magnolia, and holly trees around our property. We grow eucalyptus to add in a hint of blue as well as fragrance and love incorporating dried flowers that we have put up throughout the growing season. We love the natural look we can achieve when we get creative and source from what’s in our own backyard.
The Care You Deserve
MS 7201-7201
Contact us today to experience our resident first community!
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mbrace the community, care, and compassion that only Elison Assisted Living of Oxford can provide. With inclusive amenities, active social programs, and a great community, we’re all about
ensuring our residents thrive each and every day.
662.506.3901 | ElisonOxford.com 100 Azalea Dr., Oxford, MS 38655 OxfordMag.com 37
Seasonal wreaths made from dried flowers and greenery. Each flower is dried for up to 5 weeks in preparation.
Tell us about your seasonal wreaths and arrangements. When and where can we find or order them? After our first frost, when our fresh flower season ends, we begin working with the
38 October 2025
flowers we have carefully dried over the past few months. In order to get the best quality and color retention we pick the flowers at their peak, hydrate them, strip the leaves, bundle, and hang them upside down to dry
Colorful snapdragons are a local favorite.
for 3–5 weeks. Then in the late fall and winter we use those flowers to make everlasting bouquets and wreaths that we sell through Instagram and Chicory Market. This winter we will also be at two Christmas markets with
Katherine Webb holding an armful of fresh cut blooms.
dried flowers and holiday wreaths: The Oxford Christmas Galleria on November 29 and the Plein Air Christmas Market December 5 and 6. You can also place orders through our website, www.farmsteadflorals.com.
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40 October 2025
Staple’s welcoming dining space blends modern velvet polish with a lively Delta spirit.
A Fresh Chapter at the Cotton House: Bar Fontaine’s Return BY AMELIA OTT PHOTOS BY TENOLA PLAXICO
C
leveland is a small Delta town with a presence that feels much bigger than its map suggests. This is blues country, where the legacy of the music still shapes the character of the place and right in the middle of it all, on historic Cotton Row, is the Cotton House Hotel. It's become both a local gathering place and a welcoming stop for people just passing through. This summer, the Cotton House celebrated its sixth anniversary by unveiling a reimagined Bar Fontaine, an upstairs spot with views of downtown Cleveland. The redesign isn't just
about looking good; it feels like the kind of place where you could spend all night talking and never get bored, a true blend of old Delta charm and new energy. Walk into Bar Fontaine and you'll sense it: warm light, lush textures and a vibe that feels both Southern and sophisticated. Here, mixologist Talbert Toole doesn't just mix drinks; he distills the region into each glass using ingredients grown right here in the South. "It’s not just about taste," he says. "It’s about knowing why the flavors belong together."
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Woven layered lighting casts a relaxing glow over Staple and it's guests.
42 October 2025
Guests gather at the sleek bar, where conversation flows as easily as the carefully crafted cocktails.
Downstairs, Staple Food + Drink (formerly Delta Meat Market) thrives under the hand of Josh Simmons. The new menu plays with expectations, like a wedge salad piled high with thick-cut bacon, fry bread light as air that tastes like funnel cake, and handmade pastas that are both hearty and inventive. "A meal should feel playful," Simmons says. "Don't be afraid to mix things up. Start with something sweet, then shift to savory, let your taste buds roam." Beyond its dining and design, the Cotton House has blossomed into a community hub. Its 2,800 square feet accommodate weddings, conferences, and gatherings that draw people from Memphis, Jackson, and beyond. Weekdays bring business travelers and professionals through the lobby; on weekends, the place pulses with families, alumni, and GRAMMY Museum visitors. Cleveland isn't just a stop; it's a host.
Woven layered lighting casts a relaxing glow over Staple and it's guests.
It’s not just about taste. It’s about knowing why the flavors belong together. — Talbert Toole
A Southern Soul Food Revival
Cater your event with our award-winning BBQ!
DINE-IN • TAKE-OUT • CATERING
Longtime staff like Marilee Cabrol see their roles as more than service. “Sometimes it’s a hot meal and a smile that turns someone into a regular,” she says. Adrien Boyd adds, “This place is layered with music, food, stories. Folks don’t realize how rich it is until they arrive.” Bar Fontaine’s rebirth isn’t merely a reopening; it’s an invitation. A call to slow down, connect, and see Cleveland not as a place to pass through, but as a destination. In a town where neighbors still wave hello and the blues feel close, the Cotton House stands as both an anchor and an introduction. For guests who come for the cocktails or cuisine but stay for the warmth, it proves the Mississippi Delta isn't a relic; it’s alive and unfolding right now. While You’re in Cleveland Bar Fontaine and Staple Food + Drink may center the evening, but Cleveland has plenty more to offer. Spend an afternoon browsing the boutiques along Cotton Row, where shops like H Squared, Mod + Proper, The Wishing Well,
662.236.667 | 311 S. Lamar Blvd. | moesoriginalbbq.com
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Handmade Seasonal Pastas - Fresh pasta with Gulf shrimp, peas, and artichokes.
This place is layered with music, food, stories. Folks don’t realize how rich it is until they arrive. — Adrien Boyd
Abraham’s, The Punkin’ Patch, Neysa’s Fireside Antiques, Rosson & Co., and Gilbow’s showcase everything from children’s clothing and antiques to Delta-made goods and Southern fashion staples. Stop in for a bite at local favorites such as Zoe Coffee + Pastries, Leña Pizza & Bagels, or Hey Joe’s, each one offering a taste of the town’s signature hospitality. Music lovers should mark their calendars for upcoming performances at the Bologna Performing Arts Center, which continues to bring world-class acts to the Delta. And from the second Saturday of November through New Year’s Eve, downtown lights up with 59 Nights of Lights, a holiday display that draws families from across the region. And of course, no visit is complete without stepping inside the GRAMMY Museum Mississippi, where interactive exhibits celebrate the region’s unmatched musical heritage. Whether it is food, shopping, or live entertainment, Cleveland proves there is always more to discover in the Mississippi Delta! 44 October 2025
OxfordMag.com 45
Andrew’s Journey with OSBC University BY AMELIA OTT
W
hen Andrew crossed the finish line of the Double Decker 5K this spring, jogging every step, he was overwhelmed with emotion. Less than a year earlier, the idea of running or even fitting comfortably in a stadium seat felt impossible. At nearly 500 pounds, he lived in shame, discomfort, and fear for years. Food had become both comfort and captivity. “If you find yourself at the bariatric clinic,” Andrew said, “chances are you’ve developed a food addiction. For me, food became the answer to everything — whether I was
46 October 2025
happy, sad, excited, or stressed.” His turning point came when someone close to him suffered a heart attack linked to obesity. With a young son at home, Andrew realized that unless he made a dramatic change, he might not live to see him grow up. He had considered surgery nearly a decade earlier, but thought he was too young. Now, faced with his own mortality, he knew it was time. Finding Support Andrew turned to Oxford Surgical and Bariatric Clinic’s OSBC University, where he discovered more than a medical program. He found a
family. From the receptionists to the nurses, the nurse practitioner to the surgeons, every staff member became his cheerleader. “I don’t think I could have done it without them,” Andrew said. “Their unwavering encouragement carried me through when I felt like I had nothing left. For anyone who feels hopeless, I want you to know you don’t have to do this alone. There are people who will walk right beside you.” That’s exactly why Dr. Walker Byars, Dr. Robert McAuley and Carah Walker, Nurse Practitioner and
One year after surgery, Andrew Basinger has lost 200 pounds. He is pictured with his son, Jack, and his wife, Shannon.
Bariatric Coordinator, created OSBC University. With each of these three providers in practice for over 20+ years, they understand that the real transformation is about more than a procedure. “OSBC University was built to give patients education, compassion, and lifelong support,” Walker said. “Surgery is one step, but it’s the preparation, the accountability, and the follow-up that make success last.”
Surgery as a Tool Andrew prepared for surgery knowing it wouldn’t be a quick fix. “Surgery is just one tool,” he said. “You can’t expect to lose the weight without also preparing for the months when food can no longer be your coping mechanism.” Dr. Walker Byars, the leading surgeon for laparoscopic gastric sleeve procedures in Mississippi and one of the top in the nation, said that mindset is what sets OSBC apart.
“Preparing patients for the emotional and lifestyle changes that come with bariatric surgery is something we take very seriously,” Byars explained. “It starts well before the day of surgery, and OSBC University guides patients every step of the way.” A Friend Who Never Gave Up Support also came from outside the clinic. One of Andrew’s closest friends, a fellow pastor, encouraged him daily to
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make this change. At first, Andrew was hurt by the persistence, but eventually he realized it came from a place of love. “Every person needs a Chihuahua friend like mine,” Andrew laughed. “Someone who never stops yapping at you, reminding you of the good you can do and the strength you already have. At first it stings, but then you realize they’re speaking the truth. There’s no other love like honesty.”
For me, food became the answer to everything — whether I was happy, sad, excited, or stressed. — Andrew Basinger From Dream to Finish Line Before surgery, Andrew had a vivid dream that he was running a race. He could feel the wind on his face and pure elation as he pushed toward the finish line. When he woke, reality set in. At nearly 500 pounds, running wasn’t just difficult; it was Andrew Basinger with his son, Jack, at Swayze Field before beginning his weight loss journey.
48 October 2025
impossible. His mother told him later that she believed God was speaking to him in that dream, calling him to listen. Andrew took it to heart. Since his surgery, Andrew has lost more than 200 pounds. His sitting heart rate has dropped from 100 to 110 beats per minute to a healthy 52 to 60. He can sit comfortably at Ole Miss baseball games with his son, free from shame. He even recently went tubing with him at the lake. One of the most powerful moments of his journey came when Andrew ran the Double Decker 5K, jogging the entire race and crossing the finish line. A photo of him completing the event says what words cannot. The man who once only ran in dreams now runs in reality. A Legacy for His Son Beyond his own health, Andrew sees the ripple effect on his son’s life. Research shows that when both parents are obese, a child has about an 80 percent chance of becoming obese. When only one parent is obese, the risk drops to about 52 percent. If neither parent is obese, the chance is less than 10 percent. “I know I’m setting an example,” Andrew said. “I don’t want my son to carry that kind of weight Andrew Basinger celebrates as his dream of running a race became reality at the Double Decker 5K this spring.
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around. I want him to feel free to make his own choices, but I also want to show him how to live a healthy life where food can be enjoyed without holding you back.” That’s why ongoing support is so critical, said Dr. Robert McAuley, board-certified surgeon at OSBC. “Success doesn’t come from surgery alone,” McAuley said. “It comes from education, motivation, and support. That’s why we follow patients for life, so they always know they’re not alone on the journey.” The Takeaway From a heartbreaking dream to a triumphant finish line, Andrew’s journey is proof that change is possible. His courage, supported by his family, his Oxford Surgery & Bariatric Clinic’s staff, from left to right/ Melissa, Sara, Celeste, Jennifer, and Shellye. Chihuahua friend, the OSBC University staff, and the surgeons who believe in lifelong support, reminds us that every step forward Every person needs a Chihuahua friend like mine. Someone who never matters. stops yapping at you, reminding you of the good you can do and the At OSBC University, the journey is about strength you already have. At first it stings, but then you realize they’re more than weight loss. speaking the truth. There’s no other love like honesty. It’s about gaining back life.
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Fall Recipes Chicken Pot Pie with Biscuits
By Stephanie Melchione, The Cozy Cook Ingredients ‣ 2 small boneless, skinless, chicken breasts ‣ 3 cups chicken broth ‣ 4 tbsp butter ‣ 1 cup frozen peas ‣ ½ cup onions, finely diced ‣ ½ cup celery, finely diced ‣ ½ cup carrots, finely diced ‣ 2 cloves garlic ‣ ½ tsp onion powder
‣ ½ tsp dry thyme ‣ ½ tsp dry rosemary ‣ ¼ tsp ground sage ‣ ¹⁄³ cup flour ‣ ½ cup half and half ‣ 1 chicken bouillon cube ‣ 1 tsp low-sodium soy sauce ‣ buttermilk biscuits ‣ salt/pepper to taste
The Biscuits 1. Store formed biscuits on a plate in the fridge while you prepare the pot pie, then add the formed biscuits to the top when ready to bake. Bake at 425° for 15-18 minutes. The Filling 1. Season each side of the chicken with salt and pepper. Add it to a medium saucepan along with the chicken broth and bring it to a very gentle bubble with the lid cracked for 15 minutes, until cooked through. Don’t boil rapidly or the chicken will be tough. Remove the chicken and use forks to shred. Set aside and reserve the broth that the chicken was cooked in. 2. Meanwhile, melt butter in a wide (12-inch) pan over medium heat and sauté onions, celery, and carrots for 5-6 minutes. Add garlic and seasonings. Toss to coat and cook for one more minute. 3. Add flour and toss to coat. Cook for 2 minutes or until you can no longer smell raw flour. 4. Add 2/3 of the chicken broth in small splashes, stirring to incorporate. Add the half and half in the same manner. 5. Add chicken bouillon and soy sauce. Then add the shredded chicken and stir to combine.
2.
You may also bake the biscuits on a baking sheet while you prepare the filling, but baking them on top of the skillet of pot pie adds an extra level of cozy comfort!
6.
If the liquid was added slowly, the gravy should be thick. If you would like it to be thicker, bring it to a gentle boil and reduce to a simmer. 7. Optional: Add any of the remaining 1/3 chicken broth if desired. The bottom of the biscuits will absorb some of it during baking. 8. Add the frozen peas and stir to combine and heat through. Remove from heat. 9. Transfer filling to a lightly greased 8 x 8-inch baking dish if your skillet isn’t oven-safe. 10. Add the biscuits to the top and bake per biscuit recipe instructions, or until biscuits are golden and set in the middle. Note: You can also bake the biscuits separately on a baking sheet and place them on the filling afterward, resulting in a crispier bottom biscuit. 11. Optional: Brush butter on top of the biscuits at the end and bake for 3-5 more minutes if additional browning is desired.
Sweet Potato Bites By Slimming Violet
Ingredients ‣ 2 large sweet potatoes, sliced into rounds ‣ ½ cup goat cheese
‣ 2 tbsp honey ‣ salt/pepper to taste
Instructions 1. Store formed biscuits on a plate in the fridge while you prepare the pot pie, then add biscuits to the top when ready to bake. Bake at 425° for 15-18 minutes. 2. You can bake the biscuits on a baking sheet while you prepare the filling, but baking them on top of the skillet of pot pie adds an extra level of cozy comfort! 52 October 2025
Apple Crisp with Vanilla Ice Cream By Clare, Retro Vixen
Filling Ingredients ‣ 6 medium apples (mix of Granny Smith, Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, thinly sliced ‣ ¼ cup granulated sugar ‣ ¼ cup light brown sugar ‣ 1 tsp ground cinnamon ‣ ½ tsp ground nutmeg ‣ ¼ tsp ground allspice ‣ 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice ‣ 1 tbsp cornstarch
Topping Ingredients ‣ 1 cup old-fashioned oats ‣ ½ cup all-purpose flour ‣ ½ cup light brown sugar ‣ ¼ cup granulated sugar ‣ ½ tsp ground cinnamon ‣ ¼ tsp salt ‣ ½ cup unsalted butter ‣ ½ cup chopped walnuts ‣ vanilla ice cream (to serve) ‣ caramel sauce (to serve)
and spread it out evenly. In a medium bowl, mix oats, flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and salt. 5. Add cold butter cubes and work them into the mixture using a pastry cutter or your fingers until it resembles coarse crumbs. 6. Stir in chopped nuts if using. 7. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the apple mixture. 8. Bake for 35–40 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender when pierced with a fork. 9. Remove from the oven and let cool for 5–10 minutes to allow the juices to settle. 10. Serve warm, scooping apple crisp into bowls and topping with vanilla ice cream and caramel sauce if desired. 4.
Instructions 1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or similar oven-safe dish. 2. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Toss until the apples are evenly coated. 3. Transfer the apple mixture to the prepared baking dish
Autumn Chicken Dinner By Daniel Rivera
Ingredients ‣ 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts ‣ 4 small, sweet potatoes, peeled, cubed ‣ 1 tbsp olive oil ‣ 2 tbsp butter ‣ 2 cloves garlic, minced ‣ 1 cup apple cider
‣ ½ cup chicken broth ‣ 1 tbsp dijon mustard ‣ 1 tsp dried thyme ‣ ½ tsp cinnamon ‣ 1 large apple, cored, sliced ‣ ½ cup pecans ‣ salt/pepper to taste ‣ fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions 1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. 2. In a large ovenproof skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside. 3. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. 4. Pour in apple cider and chicken broth, scraping up any brown bits on the bottom of the skillet. 5. Stir in Dijon mustard, dried thyme, and cinnamon. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2 minutes. 6. Add sweet potatoes and apple slices to the skillet, stirring to coat them in the sauce. 7. Nestle the chicken breasts back into the skillet among the sweet potatoes and apples. 8. Sprinkle chopped pecans over the top.
9.
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 2530 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and sweet potatoes are tender. 10. Remove from the oven, and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley. OxfordMag.com 53
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TOP UNDER 40 54 October 2025
20 under 40
ALLIE ROBERSON 8th Grade Math Teacher, Dance Team Head Coach, Oxford Middle School
Why do you think you were chosen as one of Oxford’s Top 20 Under 40? Oxford is full of incredibly hardworking people doing amazing things, so being recognized among them is really special. I think I was chosen because of my dedication to serving both my students and my community. I try to pour into others the way so many people have poured into me and hopefully make a positive impact, no matter how small. Tell us about your work and what excites you most about it. I’m lucky to have a job that’s never dull, where I get to share my love of math and dance with my students every day. I also love getting to do this work alongside teachers and staff who motivate and support each other. What excites me most is seeing my students’ potential and helping them grow, gain confidence, and realize what they’re capable of. What’s an accomplishment you’re especially proud of? One accomplishment I’m especially proud of is the impact I’ve been able to make through teaching and coaching. Building strong relationships with my students and watching them grow into confident, capable people means just as much to me as their academic success. How has Oxford influenced your journey, and how do you hope to give back? Oxford has shaped me in so many ways— spending much of my childhood here, returning for college, and now getting to work in a town that has always felt like home. I’ve been fortunate to learn from amazing mentors and take advantage of opportunities that helped me grow. I hope to give back by continuing to invest in the next generation through teaching, coaching, and community work. How do you like to spend your time outside of work? Outside of work, I love spending time with family and friends, cheering on the Ole Miss Rebels, traveling, reading, and painting.
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20 under 40
Josh Bodie's restaurant, Lost Pizza.
Tell us about your work and what excites you most about it. I get to run a business that brings people together over great food and a welcoming atmosphere, which makes every day meaningful. What excites me most is working alongside a dedicated staff whose hard work and passion make everything we do possible, and watching both them and the community thrive. What’s an accomplishment you’re especially proud of? I’m especially proud of helping build Lost Pizza into a place that feels like home for both our guests and our team. Creating an environment where people enjoy working and the community feels welcomed has been one of my biggest achievements. How has Oxford influenced your journey, and how do you hope to give back? Oxford has shaped me through the relationships I’ve built with mentors, coworkers, and customers who’ve guided and supported me along the Owner, Lost Pizza way. I hope to give back by continuing to create opportunities for others, supporting local causes, and making sure Why do you think you were chosen as one of Oxford’s our business remains a positive part of the community. Top 20 Under 40? I believe I was chosen because of the hard work and How do you like to spend your time outside of work? dedication I’ve put into building a business that’s deeply Outside of work, I enjoy quality time with my family rooted in Oxford, but I couldn’t have done it without my and taking part in the things that make Oxford such a former and current staff. Their commitment and energy special place. From local events to simple moments have helped me grow the business and make a lasting outdoors, I appreciate anything that lets me slow down impact in the community. and stay connected.
JOSH BODIE
56 October 2025
20 under 40 Why do you think you were chosen as one of Oxford’s Top 20 Under 40? I believe I was chosen because of the impact I’ve been able to make both professionally and within the Oxford community. In my role as VP of Marketing for LRC2 Management, I’ve been fortunate to lead sales and marketing strategies across multiple properties we manage around the state, helping drive growth and mentor others in the hospitality industry. Beyond work, I’ve spent the past nine years calling Oxford home and have loved giving back through organizations like Young Professionals of Oxford, where I served on the board of directors, and now as an Industry Partner representative on the Mississippi Society of Association Executives board. Oxford is such a special place, and I’m honored that my efforts to grow both my profession and community are being recognized in this way. Tell us about your work and what excites you most about it. My career in Oxford began eight years ago as the Director of Sales at Home2 Suites Oxford, and since 2020, I’ve served as VP of Marketing for LRC2 Management. I love that my role allows me to wear many hats—from supporting our Directors of Sales at each hotel, to running social media pages, to planning events and connecting with the community through sponsorships and donations. I also get to pitch our hotels and restaurants to travel writers, influencers, and magazines, which is both challenging and exciting. The part that excites me most is showing off our properties. There’s plenty of behind-thescenes work, but at the heart of it, my job is about helping guests discover just how special our hotels are and why they should stay with us. Hospitality is about creating experiences, and I love that I get to play a part in that every day. What’s an accomplishment you’re especially proud of? An accomplishment I’m especially proud of is the career I’ve built in hospitality, even though it wasn’t the path I originally envisioned. When I graduated from college, I thought I’d pursue a role in tourism marketing and PR after interning with Convention and Visitors Bureaus. I loved the idea of sharing how special Mississippi communities are with travelers. When that opportunity didn’t come right away, I accepted a hotel job in 2009 without fully knowing what I was stepping into. Sixteen years later, I never could have imagined how rewarding this journey would be. I’m grateful
KATIE COFER VP of Marketing; LRC2 Management that what started as an unexpected opportunity has become a career that I truly love. How has Oxford influenced your journey, and how do you hope to give back? Oxford has significantly influenced my career by providing both opportunities and a community. As a college town with a strong sense of connection, Oxford is home to organizations like Young Professionals, the Chamber of Commerce, and Visit Oxford, which have all played a part in helping me establish relationships and succeed in my work. I’m grateful for the ways this city has supported me, and I hope to give back by continuing to
support local organizations, businesses, and community initiatives whenever possible. Oxford has given me a career, a network, and a family, and I look forward to giving back to the place I now call home. How do you like to spend your time outside of work? When I’m not working, I enjoy spending as much time outdoors as I can. Being by the water—whether at the lake, the beach, or the river—is my favorite way to recharge. I also love traveling and making memories with my husband, and I cherish time at home with our Australian Shepherd rescue, Logan, who has been part of our family for 11 years.
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20 under 40 What’s an accomplishment you’re especially proud of? My past career was as a pharmacist and pharmacy educator, so stepping into a small business role in a completely different field was a huge leap of faith. There are not as many traditional “markers” of success as a balloon artist, but I would say the accomplishments I am most proud of include decorating sorority houses for Ole Miss Bid Day. The most recent Bid Day consisted of an 11hour overnight installation on two of the houses on campus, and the end results were exactly what I had envisioned. Seeing my clients happy and bringing smiles to countless faces during one of the most important days of their college lives is something I will never take for granted.
ASHLEY STUBBLEFIELD CRUMBLY Owner; The Balloon Lab Why do you think you were chosen as one of Oxford’s Top 20 Under 40? I think I was chosen because of my determination and ability to grow my business from a hobby and side hustle into a full-time career. What started as something small has literally blown up (pun intended) in the last couple of years and now includes balloon décor for countless large events, including Ole Miss sorority recruitment. I feel like I was chosen because of my ability to manage and encourage my team, create beautiful balloon art, and grow my business from the ground up. Tell us about your work and what 58 October 2025
excites you most about it. I own a balloon company specializing in custom balloon décor and largescale installations. My daily role includes anything from site visits to client communication to balloon garland creation and installation. As a small business owner, I wear a lot of different hats—usually all at the same time. But getting to be creative on a daily basis is my favorite part of my job. My clients trust me to decorate for their special events and allow me the opportunity to help bring their visions to life. Seeing a project develop from conception to the end result is something that will never get old for me.
How has Oxford influenced your journey, and how do you hope to give back? Oxford has always had my heart. From the moment I set foot on campus for pharmacy school, I knew Oxford would play an important role in my story. After spending some years away following school, we moved back in 2013 and have loved every minute of getting to live here and raise our family in this sweet town. Oxford really does pull you back in, no matter how far away you may have gone. My balloon business has allowed me to interact with the community in a new and fun way, and I hope to give back by sharing my art with as many as possible. My ultimate goal is to use the business to help support and promote other small businesses in the event community and to use it as an avenue for charitable contributions as well. How do you like to spend your time outside of work? Outside of work I love to spend time with my family. When I’m not out doing balloons you can usually find me at one of my 11-year-old daughter, Amelia’s, cheer competitions or at the baseball field cheering on my 9-year-old son, Theo. I also have an almost 2-year-old son, Carter, who keeps me on my toes, so sometimes you will find me chasing him around too.
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20 under 40
KIMMEE NGUYEN Owner, Nails & Couture Oxford
Why do you think you were chosen as one of Oxford’s Top 20 Under 40? I am honored to have been chosen by the people of Oxford. I have truly felt the love and am grateful for the support since the first day we opened. I am always looking for ways to give back to the community and am overwhelmed to be bestowed this honor. Tell us about your work and what excites you most about it. There is a saying that if you love what you do, you never work a day in your life. I truly believe that. I love to make new friends and help people feel their most beautiful on a daily basis. Each and every day is a new adventure, and I look forward to going into work. What’s an accomplishment you’re especially proud of? I am most proud of having such a great and diverse staff. They work so hard every day to bring a little joy to everyone who walks through our doors. I am also proud to have brought our award-winning nail salon from our previous town—where we won numerous Best Of awards—to Oxford, and then taking home the Best Nail Salon award in our very first full year here. How has Oxford influenced your journey, and how do you hope to give back? Oxford felt like home the minute I first visited. I immediately loved the town, the people, and the wonderful schools. Oxford was the place we wanted to plant our roots. I love being involved in the community and always look for ways to give back, whether through donations or hosting special events throughout the year. How do you like to spend your time outside of work? One word: family. Family means everything to me. I work hard to give my family the best life possible. I love traveling, shopping, eating, and spending time with my two sons and my loving, supportive husband.
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20 under 40 beyond simply selling bottles—we’ve helped create a culture of discovery. Customers are now more curious, open to exploring, and eager to learn about the craftsmanship behind the product. Beyond the store, this summer I launched the Oxford Uncorked Wine Festival to further expose guests to a diverse selection of wine. Year one was a huge success—a bridge that brought neighbors, friends, and newcomers together.
AARON HERRINGTON Owner, High Cotton Wine & Spirits Warehouse Why do you think you were chosen as one of Oxford’s Top 20 Under 40? Likely for my success in business, developing the largest-volume wine and spirits store in Oxford. Tell us about your work and what excites you most about it. For me, the joy of this business is connecting with people, educating them on wine and spirits, and guiding them toward new flavors
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and experiences. Many customers start with familiar favorites, but what excites me is helping them explore new territory. Every recommendation is an opportunity to broaden someone’s palate and expand how they think about wine and spirits. What’s an accomplishment you’re especially proud of? As a store owner, I take pride in the way our community has grown around a shared passion for wine. We’ve gone
How has Oxford influenced your journey, and how do you hope to give back? Oxford may be small, but it has a big cultural footprint. With the University of Mississippi at its heart, there’s a steady flow of new students, professors, and visitors that fosters openness to new experiences— including wine and spirits. Oxford’s roots in Southern hospitality also pair perfectly with this industry. People here value connection, conversation, and tradition. Unlike larger markets where wine culture is already developed, Oxford has given me the opportunity to help build something from the ground up. I hope to give back by continuing to foster appreciation and education, sharing my excitement about wine and spirits daily, and shaping a community that values both tradition and exploration. How do you like to spend your time outside of work? It’s a rare and rewarding opportunity when your work and passions blend together. Wine and food are my passions, and both are inseparable from culture and travel. Exploring the world allows me to experience wines and spirits in their authentic settings. I also love cuisine, which helps me understand pairings, flavor profiles, and how the right bottle can transform a dining experience.
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20 under 40
WESLEY LEWISON CEO, Open Eye Media
Tell us about your work and what excites you most about it. We are a white-label marketing agency that focuses on teaching our clients how to compete in a modern digital landscape instead of trying to turn them into subscribers who are dependent on us. The goal is empowering small business owners and individuals to champion themselves and shine a light on the amazing people of this city and the institutions they have built. What’s an accomplishment you’re especially proud of? Are you kidding!? Oxford’s Top 20 Under 40!!! Since moving to this town I have come to know that the warm, welcoming communities you see on TV actually exist, and Oxford is proof. I have been featured in Men’s Insider and other news outlets, given keynotes for organizations like DECA, won DoD Innovation Awards, and explored the world’s oceans. But finding a place as magical as Oxford and being accepted here tops it all. How has Oxford influenced your journey, and how do you hope to give back? Oxford has made me feel like I have a hometown I never knew existed. The kindness and warmth found in every brick of this city inspires the desire to do right by your neighbor, smile at every person you walk by, and feel connected to something not only bigger than yourself but truly a place of goodness. I want to do everything I can to sing the praises of the local businesses and the people who make it all possible so that the whole world sees the magic of this place the way I do. How do you like to spend your time outside of work? Walking my two dogs with my beautiful fiancée, playing disc golf, attempting to grill the perfect steak, or enjoying a night out with friends. I am also the Vice Commander for American Legion Gaming (Post 1337) and the Director of Development for the One Man One Mic Foundation, both of which are focused on helping veterans connect and share their stories.
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20 under 40 Why do you think you were chosen as one of Oxford’s Top 20 Under 40? I believe I was chosen because of the ways I’ve been able to pour into our Oxford community in both my professional and personal roles. As a Family Nurse Practitioner, I care deeply about the health and well-being of my patients, and I strive to make a positive difference in their lives each day. At the same time, through founding The OxMahjong Club, I’ve been able to bring people together in a unique way by building community, teaching new skills, and supporting local businesses and causes along the way. It has been such a joy to see people connect over mahjong, and I think this recognition reflects that combination of serving others in healthcare and fostering connection in our town. Tell us about your work and what excites you most about it. As a Family Nurse Practitioner, I have the privilege of walking alongside patients in both everyday and sometimes very difficult moments of their lives. What excites me most about this work is knowing I can make a difference—whether it’s offering medical care, education, or simply compassion and reassurance when someone needs it most. Beyond healthcare, I’m also the founder of The OxMahjong Club, one of Oxford’s first dedicated mahjong communities. Teaching this game has been such a joy because it not only gives people a fun new skill but also builds friendships, fosters connection, and supports local businesses through our events. What excites me most is seeing the ripple effect when someone leaves healthier, happier, or more connected because of something I was able to pour into, whether that’s in the clinic or around the mahjong table. What’s an accomplishment you’re especially proud of? An accomplishment I’m especially proud of is creating one of Oxford’s first mahjong groups. Balancing a full-time career as a Family Nurse Practitioner and life as a new mom to a six-month-old wasn’t easy, but I felt passionate about creating a space where people could come together, enjoy community, and
ALISON MCAVOY Family Nurse Practitioner, RedMed Urgent Care; Founder, The OxMahjong Club
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20 under 40 challenge their minds by learning and playing mahjong. Seeing it grow into a place of connection and joy for so many has been incredibly rewarding. How has Oxford influenced your journey, and how do you hope to give back? Oxford is truly home for me. I came here in 2010 for school and never left. Over the years, I’ve built lasting friendships and found a community that has shaped both my personal and professional journey. I hope to continue giving back in meaningful ways, not only through my work as a Family Nurse Practitioner but also through The OxMahjong Club, which has become a space for connection and fellowship. Supporting causes close to my heart, such as the Junior Auxiliary of Oxford, Palmer Home, and the Literacy Council, is another way I strive to invest in the community that has given so much to me.
Alison McAvoy pictured with her mahjong tiles.
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How do you like to spend your time outside of work? Outside of work, I love teaching mahjong—it has brought me so much joy and connection lately. I also cherish spending time with my baby girl and our fur baby, Scottie, who keep life full and fun. And whenever I get the chance, I enjoy playing tennis. It’s a great way to recharge and do something just for me.
20 under 40 Why do you think you were chosen as one of Oxford’s Top 20 Under 40? This is such a hard question for me to answer because this town is full of so many incredible people, and I’m so honored to have been chosen. I’m grateful to live and work here and to be able to raise my family here. I strive to be an active member of the community through my involvement in different philanthropies, my role as a parent with two girls in the Oxford School District, and my job with a Mississippi-made company. Tell us about your work and what excites you most about it. Blue Delta is such a unique company to work for. We have the best clients in the world, and we’re still growing as a company, which is very exciting. What’s an accomplishment you’re especially proud of? I’ve been an active member of the Junior Auxiliary of Oxford for the past five years and during that time, I’ve served on the Board as CoFundraising Chair, PR Chair, and Membership Chair. JA of Oxford historically hosted a Charity Ball as its main fundraiser until my Co-Chair and I transformed it into a daytime “Spring Fling” three years ago. That first year, we broke fundraising records, raising over $100,000 for the children of Oxford and Lafayette County, and JA of Oxford has hosted “Spring Fling” ever since. This fundraiser is a legacy I’m proud to have helped start, and I think it shows how Oxford is ever-evolving and growing. How has Oxford influenced your journey, and how do you hope to give back? I moved to Oxford to attend Ole Miss my sophomore year as a transfer student from Washington, D.C. I had never been before, but I saw a picture of the Grove and I was sold. That was 13 years ago, and I never left. Oxford has completely shaped my journey—it’s where I met my husband, became a mom, and am now raising my kids. I can’t imagine living anywhere else. How do you like to spend your time outside of work? Outside of work, I’m most likely watching my girls play soccer at M-Trade, cheering on the Rebs in the Vaught or at Swayze, or on a bike at Elmnt Cycle.
EMILY MCELREATH Sales Operations, Blue Delta Jean
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20 under 40 Why do you think you were chosen as one of Oxford’s Top 20 Under 40? I believe I was chosen as one of Oxford's Top 20 Under 40 because others recognize the passion and dedication I bring to my work, both at the University of Mississippi and in the broader community. I have always been committed to serving others, and I take pride in being someone who leads with compassion and purpose. Supporting young people as they set and achieve their goals is one of the most fulfilling parts of what I do, and I think that sense of pride is what truly resonated with those who nominated me. Special thanks to those who nominated me. Tell us about your work and what excites you most about it. I serve as the Program Manager for the Grove Scholars program at the University of Mississippi. Our program supports talented students from across Mississippi who are pursuing degrees in STEM, healthcare, and accountancy. In my role, I primarily focus on student success— working closely with each scholar to develop individualized plans that help them reach their academic and personal goals. What excites me most about this work is witnessing the transformation that takes place as students grow, overcome challenges, and gain confidence in themselves. What’s an accomplishment you’re especially proud of? In August, I celebrated my three-year anniversary as Program Manager for Grove Scholars. During that time, I’ve had the privilege of supporting over 100 students Grove Scholars Program Manager, University as they work toward degrees in STEM, of Mississippi healthcare, and accountancy. I’ve also celebrated 25 Scholars as they walked across the stage to receive their degrees, grown both as a leader and as a person. I hope to give each one a powerful reminder of why I do this work. back by continuing to serve students with the same I’m incredibly fond of serving my students; it’s truly an support and encouragement I’ve received, helping honor to walk alongside them in both their challenges them discover their potential and pay it forward in their and triumphs. This role has never felt like just a job. It’s own unique ways. deeply rewarding and has become one of the greatest joys of my life. How do you like to spend your time outside of work? Outside of work, I love spending time with the people How has Oxford influenced your journey, and how who mean the most to me—my friends and family. I also do you hope to give back? enjoy hanging out with my dog, Kofi, binge-watching My journey in Oxford began in 2020 when I arrived Law & Order: SVU, and listening to music. Recently, I to pursue my master’s degree. What started as a step got a library card and rediscovered the joy of reading toward personal and professional growth quickly for leisure. I also find fulfillment in giving back through became so much more. Oxford welcomed me with a volunteer work with the incredible women of the Junior sense of community, purpose, and belonging that I Auxiliary of Oxford. hadn’t expected but deeply needed. Since then, I’ve
YASMIN MCLAURIN
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20 under 40 taste and building those relationships makes the work deeply rewarding. I also enjoy the creative side of merchandising and designing window displays that draw people in. Real estate is equally rewarding for different reasons. Helping first-time homebuyers is especially meaningful, as it is one of the most exciting and important purchases someone can make. I also love assisting people in finding a home in Oxford, whether for visits or full-time living, and sharing in the excitement of joining this community I love so much. Every client brings a unique story, and I find joy in guiding them through the process. What’s an accomplishment you’re especially proud of? I am proud to have continued and built upon the success of a long-established business that once employed me. Taking ownership of Village Tailor has been both challenging and rewarding, and I am proud to see it thrive while serving the people of Oxford. In real estate, I am proud to have guided clients through such an important milestone in their lives while building lasting relationships with both clients and colleagues. How has Oxford influenced your journey, and how do you hope to give back? Oxford, and particularly the University, has played a major role in providing both a customer and client base. The Owner, Village Tailor; events tied to education, athletics, Real Estate Agent, Kessinger Real Estate and community life bring energy and opportunity to both my businesses. Village Tailor’s location on the Square also Tell us about your work and what excites you most provides a strong connection to the heart of Oxford. about it. In return, I strive to give back by offering employment I am incredibly humbled and thankful to be chosen as opportunities at Village Tailor to both students and one of Oxford’s Top 20 Under 40. After graduating from residents. Through my real estate work, I also help Ole Miss in 2015, I began working at Village Tailor. I later people find their place here and become part of this started a career in real estate in 2018, which allowed charming town. Beyond my businesses, I look forward me to meet and work with so many wonderful people to staying involved in charitable events and continuing at Kessinger Real Estate. My love for fashion and the to support community groups and initiatives. Oxford community kept me involved with Village Tailor even as I grew my real estate career, and in September How do you like to spend your time outside of work? 2022, I purchased the store. Spending time with family and friends is my greatest Owning a clothing store is such a joy for me because joy. of my love for fashion. I enjoy traveling to New York each season to buy for the store, curating collections, and creating displays, but what excites me most is connecting with customers. Styling each person according to their
MARLA MILLER
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20 under 40
MOLLY CHAIN SAVAGE Owner, Molly Chain Collective
Why do you think you were chosen as one of Oxford’s Top 20 Under 40? I imagine I was chosen because of the way I’ve worked to highlight Oxford’s charm as a wedding destination. Many couples return here to celebrate their milestones, and I take pride in creating papers that capture the spirit of this community. It is an honor to be recognized for contributing to Oxford in this way. Tell us about your work and what excites you most about it. What excites me most is the connection I get to build with my clients. Every couple has a unique vision, and I love the challenge of bringing that vision to life in ways that feel fresh and innovative. Wedding stationery has endless possibilities, and pushing those boundaries keeps me inspired. What’s an accomplishment you’re especially proud of? I’m especially proud of building my business entirely from the ground up. While the creative side comes naturally to me, learning and navigating the business side has been a constant process of growth. Looking back at how far I’ve come reminds me of the hard work it has taken and continues to excite me about the future of my business. How has Oxford influenced your journey, and how do you hope to give back? I truly grew as a person when I came to Oxford for college. Being surrounded by a creative community of successful small business owners showed me that it was possible to turn my ideas into a real business. The support and encouragement of my peers have been invaluable, and I hope to give back by being that same mentor or inspiration for other young dreamers at the start of their journey. How do you like to spend your time outside of work? Outside of work, I love spending time with my husband, friends, and family, usually cheering on the Rebels (Hotty Toddy!). I like to stay busy, so if I’m not working, I’m usually diving into another project, whether that’s cooking, redecorating, or helping loved ones with fun creative projects.
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20 under 40 Why do you think you were chosen as one of Oxford’s Top 20 Under 40? I'm humbled to be included in Oxford's Top 20 Under 40. I think I was chosen because of the dedication I bring to my clients and the trust we've built together, but more importantly, because of the support and collaboration of my colleagues. None of what I do would be possible without the team I work alongside every day. This honor feels like a reflection of all of us, not just me. Tell us about your work and what excites you most about it. As a CPA, my work covers a wide range of accounting and financial services, from tax planning to financial reporting and everything in between. What excites me most about my work is the personal relationships I've been able to build with our clients. I enjoy not only helping them understand their financial situation but also learning from them. Each of our clients has a unique story and perspective, and my work allows me to listen and learn from them. What’s an accomplishment you’re especially proud of? I'm most proud of the development and growth of our office team. We've been working alongside each other for quite a few years now, and it's been rewarding to see how much each of us has learned and grown together. Watching our team strengthen over time has been one of the most fulfilling parts of my career. How has Oxford influenced your journey, and how do you hope to give back? Oxford has had a big influence on my journey. Growing up in a nearby small town, I feel fortunate to now work closely with the people of Oxford. By listening and learning from this community, I've gained so much both personally and professionally. Looking ahead, I hope to give back by being a consistent presence, raising my family here, and doing my part to be an asset to the community and share our strengths whenever we're called upon. How do you like to spend your time outside of work? With three kids between the ages of 2 and 6, most of my time outside of work is dedicated to them. Their schedules are filling up with everything from dance classes to soccer games. Our family loves spending time outdoors, whether it's playing baseball in the driveway or heading to the lake. There is always some activity keeping us busy.
ED MAXWELL CPA, Partner, Watkins, Ward and Stafford, PLLC
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20 under 40 Why do you think you were chosen as one of Oxford’s Top 20 Under 40? I started this business when I was 21. At a young age, I learned what it took to build and maintain a successful business. I love serving this community, building relationships, and growing alongside it. Tell us about your work and what excites you most about it. At South Lamar Nutrition, we provide plant-based clean energy, nutrient-dense meal replacement shakes, and many other supplements to aid in a wellness journey. I love fueling this community with the proper nutrition they need while forming strong relationships. What’s an accomplishment you’re especially proud of? South Lamar Nutrition has won Best of Oxford for four years in a row. How has Oxford influenced your journey, and how do you hope to give back? Oxford was a turning point in my life and the place where my career began. It is home, and I could not imagine owning my small business anywhere else. We give back through local school fundraisers, Ole Miss student organization fundraisers, and much more. We also have a free food pantry at South Lamar where students and locals can grab a nonperishable good at their convenience when needed. “Take what you need, leave what you can” is our motto, painted on the front of it. I plan to continue giving back wherever and whenever I can. How do you like to spend your time outside of work? I like spending time with family and friends. My wife, Leighia, and my son, Jack, are my best friends. I enjoy running, playing sports, and being musical.
TAYTON SMITH Owner, South Lamar Nutrition
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WARREN SMITH Attorney, Partner, Smith Murphy Law
Why do you think you were chosen as one of Oxford’s Top 20 Under 40? I believe I was chosen because of my commitment to serving others, both in and out of the courtroom. I have built my career on hard work and clear communication, and my goal is to approach each client’s case as a problem to be solved rather than a fight to be won. That mindset has allowed me to effectively serve clients and build lasting relationships in the community. Tell us about your work and what excites you most about it. I have the privilege of helping people during some of the most difficult moments in their lives. Every case and client is different, and I enjoy working to find fair, practical solutions that make a real difference in someone’s life. What’s an accomplishment you’re especially proud of? I am most proud of hanging my own shingle immediately after graduating from law school and building my firm into a practice that serves clients throughout the state and beyond. I am also proud of the opportunity to serve as a public defender for Oxford Municipal Court to ensure that everyone, regardless of circumstance, has access to a fair defense. How has Oxford influenced your journey, and how do you hope to give back? Oxford has been a wonderful place to build my career and raise my family. Practicing law here has given me the chance to work alongside talented attorneys, serve diverse clients, and grow as both a professional and a person. I hope to give back by providing pro bono legal services to those in our community who need help but may not be able to afford it, and by mentoring young attorneys and law students who are just beginning their careers. This community has given me many opportunities and support, and my goal is to pass on the same guidance and encouragement to others. How do you like to spend your time outside of work? Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my wife, Heidi, and our two sons. I am a family man first and foremost. I also love traveling, trying new restaurants, enjoying a good bourbon, and spending time outdoors hunting. OxfordMag.com 73
Congratulations
Kathryn Strange Portfolio Manager/ LIHTC Specialist
fnboxford.com 662-234-2821
Oxford | Tupelo | Water Valley
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20 Why do you think you were chosen as one of Oxford’s Top 20 Under 40? I think I was chosen because of my passion for this community and my ability to inspire and motivate others. I’m originally from Texas, but after graduating from Ole Miss I knew Oxford was where I wanted to stay. Over the years, it has become my home. My heart has always been in serving others, and I feel grateful that I get to do that in a place I love. Tell us about your work and what excites you most about it. Honestly, the thing that excites me most about work is the people and the relationships we build with our customers. Working at a community bank gives me the chance to know our customers personally, understand their goals, and help them grow their businesses. It’s inspiring to know that the work I do contributes to something bigger than myself and that every day brings an opportunity to make a meaningful difference. What’s an accomplishment you’re especially proud of? I’m proud of finishing my Master of Business Administration from the University of Mississippi while working full-time, which taught me discipline and perseverance. How has Oxford influenced your journey, and how do you hope to give back? Though I’m originally from Texas, Oxford became home the moment I decided to stay after graduating from Ole Miss. The community here is warm, welcoming, and full of people who inspire me every day. Oxford has shaped me in countless ways: personally, professionally, and in how I view the importance of giving back. I hope to continue to contribute to the community that has given me so much. How do you like to spend your time outside of work? Outside of work, I love spending time with my husband and our dog. I enjoy traveling to new places, going back to visit our families in Texas, and making memories with friends. I try to make the most of every moment with the people (and pup!) I love most.
KATHRYN STRANGE Portfolio Manager, Low Income Housing Tax Credit Specialist, FNB Oxford
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20 under 40 Why do you think you were chosen as one of Oxford’s Top 20 Under 40? I’m truly honored to be chosen as one of Oxford’s Top 20 Under 40. Although I didn’t grow up here or attend Ole Miss, Oxford has become my home, and I strive each day to bring more joy and beauty to this community. Tell us about your work and what excites you most about it. I own a flower farm in Oxford that provides flowers to florists and groceries locally and in Memphis and Birmingham. In addition, we offer flowers by the bucket, build-your-own bouquet bars, and fullservice floristry. Farmstead Florals is best known for our self-serve flower stands on the Square and on campus, as well as our booths at the farmer’s market. We love that our flowers get to be a part of so many special moments, big and small. What’s an accomplishment you’re especially proud of? I am especially proud of the farm’s workforce. I get to work alongside exceptionally positive and hardworking folks every day. Our team of 15 includes two full-time associates, Edward Duke and Olivia Young, who make it possible for me to mother my 7-month-old! The three of us get to work with the most fun group of workers in agriculture—many of whom are Ole Miss students and a couple who are retired—but all love delivering the joy flowers bring to the communities we serve. How has Oxford influenced your journey, and how do you hope to give back? I love small towns. I grew up in one in south Louisiana and then attended Sewanee: The University of the South, a college smaller than many high schools, in middle Tennessee. For me, it has always been about the community a small town fosters. Even though Oxford and Ole Miss both continue to grow, they do so while maintaining their “small-town-ness.” A community that nods and smiles in passing, small talks with strangers in the grocery checkout line, has farmers market regulars, restaurants, bars, and coffee shops where you can order “the usual,” and people who pick up someone else’s trash just to leave it better than they found it. These are all characteristics of a community that acknowledges one another and extends the title of “home” beyond its four walls and out into the town itself. A self-serve honor flower stand like the ones we have on the Oxford Square and on Ole Miss’s
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KATHERINE SHARP WEBB Owner, Farmstead Florals, campus would not necessarily work in just any place or college town. I am proud to be part of a community that supports, honors, and encourages communal integrity, small business, and shared beauty. I hope to continue to find new ways to uphold those principles. How do you like to spend your time outside of work? My husband, Wesley Webb, and I have a 7-month-old baby girl named Maudie. Almost all of our free time is spent oohing and aahing over her and our dog, Bay!
20 under 40 Why do you think you were chosen as one of Oxford’s Top 20 Under 40? I feel honored to be considered for this award. I have worked in Oxford for the last nine years and strive to be a consistent presence in the community each day. I aim to give individualized attention to every patient’s needs and to show that I truly care. Tell us about your work and what excites you most about it. I love the practice of physical therapy because it feels like a daily puzzle—creating a plan of care that will most benefit each person. I enjoy empowering patients to help themselves through education and exercise, and watching them regain strength and confidence is incredibly rewarding. What’s an accomplishment you’re especially proud of? I have overcome many challenges in my early adulthood, and I’m proud of where I am today in my career, my physical fitness, and my relationships. Professionally, I’m proud of serving as Clinic Director and Regional Clinical Excellence Coordinator with Elite Physical Therapy, roles that allow me to lead, mentor, and support both patients and staff. Being able to grow in my field while continuing to make an impact on individual lives is something I don’t take for granted. Personally, I am deeply thankful for my friends, family, and, most importantly, my God, who have supported me along the way. How has Oxford influenced your journey, and how do you hope to give back? My grandparents were huge Ole Miss fans, so I was exposed to Oxford from an early age. Later, I ran cross country and track for Ole Miss, which further embedded me in the Rebel culture. Oxford is a wonderful town filled with wonderful people, and I’m grateful to be part of it. I hope to continue giving back by helping our community stay healthy and improve their physical quality of life
CAROLYN WALKER Clinic Director, Regional Clinical Excellence Coordinator, Elite Physical Therapy
How do you like to spend your time outside of work? I enjoy spending time with friends and family, running and lifting weights, enjoying coffee and good food, reading, and traveling.
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20 under 40 and encouraging young men to live balanced, healthy lives. I’ve also expanded my work to individual clients and companies, which allows me to see how wellness coaching can transform lives beyond the college experience. What excites me most is the transformation I witness when students gain confidence, make healthier choices, and carry those habits with them after graduation. What’s an accomplishment you’re especially proud of? While I’ve been fortunate to serve in the Army and build a successful practice, my greatest accomplishment is my recovery. Getting sober at 19 changed the trajectory of my life, and every year since has been a gift. That experience drives me to help others— especially veterans and college students—find the same freedom.
PAT TOWERY Mental Wellness Coach, Patrick Towery Consulting, LLC Why do you think you were chosen as one of Oxford’s Top 20 Under 40? I believe I was chosen because of the impact I’ve been able to make through my work and service. As a National Board-Certified Health & Wellness Coach, I’ve supported more than 700 fraternity members at Ole Miss, helping young men prioritize their mental wellness. I also recently earned my Master of Science in Healthcare Leadership from Brown University and hold an advanced certificate in Leadership Psychology from Cornell University. Before beginning my coaching practice, I served as an Army Captain and UH60 Black Hawk pilot with tours in Latin America and Afghanistan. Outside of my professional career, 78 October 2025
I’ve had the privilege to volunteer with organizations like the Mississippi Wrestling Foundation and We Fight Monsters, as well as manage the COL(R) Bobby Towery Final Mile Scholarship in honor of my late father. My proudest accomplishment, however, is personal—I got sober as a 19-year-old college student and recently celebrated 15 years of recovery. Tell us about your work and what excites you most about it. Through my private practice, I partner with fraternity chapters to build a culture of wellness on campus. I maintain a regular presence at chapter houses, offering one-on-one coaching, training wellness boards,
How has Oxford influenced your journey, and how do you hope to give back? Oxford has always felt like home. This community embraced me as a young boy when my father taught ROTC, welcomed me back after my service overseas, and supported me following his passing. Oxford has stood with me at low points and cheered for me at high points, and I am deeply indebted to this town. I hope to give back by strengthening the wellbeing of Oxford’s students, mentoring young leaders, and continuing to invest my time and talents into the place that has given me so much. How do you like to spend your time outside of work? I enjoy time with my girlfriend, Shelby, as she settles into Oxford, and I stay active through martial arts training at HIT Fitness and 662 Jiu Jitsu. I also serve as a boxing announcer for TCB Fights and perform as a fire breather—creative outlets that keep me energized and connected. When possible, I volunteer with We Fight Monsters, an organization supporting veterans in recovery and survivors of trafficking, and I’m currently training to become a yoga instructor.
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20 under 40 Why do you think you were chosen as one of Oxford’s Top 20 Under 40? I may not always understand why so many people choose to see something in me, but I am deeply grateful for it. Knowing that someone valued a conversation we shared or appreciated a moment of kindness I offered reminds me that even small gestures can leave a lasting impact. Tell us about your work and what excites you most about it. As an Admissions Specialist, I find joy in guiding students and parents as they begin a journey that allows them to pursue their passions or discover new ones. The excitement students bring when choosing our university is contagious, and I take pride in helping them open the door to opportunities and adventures that will shape their future. As a Front Desk Associate, I have the privilege of meeting people from all walks of life—whether they’re visiting town, attending events, coming for work, or simply passing through. I get to share about a community that has played such a major role in my own growth. In those moments, I’ve laughed with guests, shed tears with them, and often been a listening ear. What’s an accomplishment you’re especially proud of? Raising my daughter while earning my master’s degree is one of my proudest accomplishments. I know I’m not perfect, and I don’t Admissions Specialist, University of Mississippi; always have the answers, but my Front Desk Associate, Charter Road Hospitality daughter sees what it looks like when I keep trying. My hope is that this example encourages her way. I’m grateful that both of my jobs allow me to to never give up, no matter the challenges she faces. do just that—create connections, support others, and
BRITNEE BARNES
How has Oxford influenced your journey, and how do you hope to give back? Since moving to Oxford, I’ve had the privilege of meeting some of the best people. The Love and Pettis families, along with Doors of Hope, have played a major role in shaping my journey. Because of their guidance and the way they poured into both my life and Rhilyn’s, I look for every opportunity to give back in the same 80 October 2025
carry forward the impact that was once made on me.
How do you like to spend your time outside of work? Outside of work, I am a member of multiple nonprofits and organizations, so I volunteer regularly. I also make time to introduce Rhilyn to new experiences and to visit friends and family.
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BEST OF OXFORD 2025 August 21, 2025 at the Powerhouse Photos by Bill Dabney 1.
Quentin & Ginger Whitwell, Caroline Dinker
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Emma and Gabe Lensing
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Jason & Megan Harrison
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Emily & Robert Gatlin
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Kate, Scott, Amanda, & Claire Ficek
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The Ott Family
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LaPorsha Reuben
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Henry Box, Anna Switzer
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Chester, Kimberly, & Tenola Plaxico
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