Entergy is investing in our infrastructure today to ensure Mississippi is ready for the next century. These projects will help ensure long-term energy affordability and reliability throughout the state, so that we are prepared to power growth for generations of Mississippians. Learn more at entergymississippi.com
Centreville, MS Field Health System Celebrates National Hospital
McComb, MS Flower Lovers Club Festival of Flowers
McComb, MS Junior Auxiliary of McComb
Natchez,
It is hard to believe we are into the second-half stretch of 2024. Moreover, to realize that we are soon to celebrate 25 years of publishing is both hard to believe and really exciting! The thought that Bluffs & Bayous is nearing its quarter-century mark is thrilling and at the same time mind blowing. However, more about this in our next edition—our 25th Anniversary issue.
In this current issue, we salute our two features in a patriotic manner. We visited the Camp Van Dorn Museum in Centreville, Mississippi, a museum that has collected artifacts from the World War II United States Army facility there that served as a training camp as well as a German prisoner-of-war camp. This museum jewel chock-full of history is worth a day trip for the family or school group to discover what took place in Centreville during the WWII years.
Our second feature salutes a local loom mill, the Vidalia Mills, located across the river in Vidalia, Louisiana. This mill makes denim clothing all from locally grown cotton. Obviously, and praiseworthily so, this mill is all about Made in the USA. About
225 John R. Junkin Drive
Natchez, MS 39120
601.442.6847
bluffsmag@gmail.com
bbupandcoming@gmail.com bluffsbayous.com
& Bayous is published monthly to promote the greater Southern area of Louisiana and Mississippi in an informative and positive manner. We welcome contributions of articles and photos; however, they will be subject to editing and availability of space and subject matter. Photographs, comments, questions, subscription requests and ad placement inquiries are invited! Return envelopes and postage must accompany all materials submitted if a return is requested. No portion of this publication may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. The opinions expressed in Bluffs & Bayous are those of the authors or columnists and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products or services herein. We reserve the right to refuse any advertisement. Bluffs & Bayous strives to ensure the accuracy of our magazine’s contents. However, should inaccuracies or omissions occur, we do not assume responsibility.
a month ago, Luke Cockerhan gave me a tour of the mill, an eye-opening visit and insight into its resources and production. I am so delighted to share this insight and appreciation with our readers.
“Jewels of the Summer”—fresh, home-grown tomatoes—is this issue’s Something Scrumptious focus that entices with its series of delicious recipes brought to you by Cecilia Stevens. Vicksburg Tomato Sandwich Appetizers, a recipe from Jimmie Ruth Doyle of Newellton, Louisiana, yields mouth-watering morsels sure to please, especially when prepared with homemade mayonnaise (a must according to most) from the recipe that follows. Alma Womack and Sam Gwin always provide interesting reads: Hers is a candid assessment of summer and sand; and his, a commentary on the changing city scene.
We conclude the issue with Up & Coming’s early postings of area events, and urge you to check the communities’ websites for updated information. Features, recipes, columnists’ commentaries, events listing—all these create a kaleidoscope of enrichment for your summer months along and beyond the Mississippi.
From May 13-17, 2024, Field Health System in Centreville, Mississippi, celebrated National Hospital Week, the week set aside to recognize America’s outstanding hospital employees and staff. Field Health System went all out in honoring and celebrating their staff by hosting daily fun-filled, themed celebrations and invited the public to stop by and show their support for local healthcare providers.
Debbie Willingham and Lisa Brister
Carolyn White
Marcy Carr
Morgan Vine, Shannon Tison, Melissa Hebert, and Shanterika Allen-Thompson
Jason Carr and Dr. P. Kumar Selvaraj
Alisa Ludwigs and Lisa Brister
Tattiana Anderson
Halyn Brown and Michelle Thornton
Victoria Anders and Leslee Brock
Victoria Anders, Janay Perkins, Nicholas Bryant, Richard Williams, and Angela Jackson
Shanterika Allen-Thompson, Dr. P. Kumar Selvaraj, and Melissa Hebert
Ginny Cutrer and Mikalyn Rymer
Sammy Kirkland and Morgan Vine
Richard Williams, Sally Campbell, JoLynn Odenwalk, Sammy Kirkland, and Simon Kleinpeter
Jennifer Blackwell and Amber Malone
Sammie Magee, Melissa Taylor, Leanne Hughes, and Kathleen Huff
Kellie Dalton, Miranda Shorey, and Deana Ferguson
Shaletha Parker, Felicia Banks, and Roma Slack
Tara Sullivan and Megan Harrell
Brittany Sharp, Lisa Fudge, and Maranda Hart
Margie Murray, Miranda Shorey, and Courtney Sheets
Katie June and Dr. David McGraw
Jessica Rempel and Julie Hodges
Katie June, Sammy Kirkland, and Thomastine Washington
The Flower Lovers Club of McComb, Mississippi, recently held its 25th annual Festival of Flowers, a non-judged flower show. The "Dreaming in Color" themed show featured floral designs and horticulture specimens. Design topics were “The Color Revolution,” “Colorful Inspirations,” “Color Me Happy,” and “Somewhere over the Rainbow.” A professional design category was also featured at the show. The event was held at Pike National Bank in McComb.
Laura Fahner, Nancy Hensarling, and Gaye Atkinson
Delores Feldman and Gay Austin, Festival of Flowers Chairperson
Carol Funchess, Janice Honea, and Sharon Honea
Carla Stringer and Linda Tucker
Brenda Coleman, Vicki Bryant, and Beverly Birdsong
Anne Reagan Lewis, Youth Exhibit winner, Garden Girls, grades 7-12
“Dreaming in Color” entry by The Flower Nook
Riley and Bess Hemphill, Youth Exhibit winners, Johnny Jump Ups, K4-grade 2
Nikki Bedford
Allison Viator, Hillary Fairburn, and Kelly Hart
Alford’s Flowers, Professional Designer Category, First Place
Scarlett James, Youth Exhibit winner, Busy Bees, grades 3-6
Barbara Willis, Linda Young, and Nancy Soyars
Sue Reeves, Jim Alford, Regan Jones, and Tina Brumfield
Regan Jones, “The Color Revolution” Design Category winner
Rita Wallace, Amazing Flowers, Professional Designer Category, Second Place and Award of Appreciation
Gay Austin, “Colorful Inspirations” Design Category winner
Daylilies are one of my favorite plants.
I have more than 200 daylilies growing in my gardens, and I continue to plant more each year. The only thing I don’t like about daylilies is that each individual flower lasts only for a day—hence the name “daylily.” But the fact that the plants produce multiple blooms over several weeks provides an extended period of color.
Originally, daylilies came in just yellow, orange, and red. However, today’s cultivars boast a breathtaking array of colors, including near-whites, pastels, vibrant yellows, oranges, pinks, vivid reds, deep crimsons, purples, nearly true blues, and intricate blends.
Daylilies are hardy and easy to care for. They prefer full sun to partial shade and can thrive in a variety of soil types although well-drained soil is ideal. They work well in perennial borders, in mixed flower beds, and as a ground cover on slopes. Daylilies are drought tolerant once established.
A couple of weeks ago, I visited Rolling Oaks Daylilies in Picayune, Mississippi, where I admired hundreds of beautiful selections in full bloom across the property. I must admit the number of blooming daylilies was overwhelming; and the beautiful blooms came in so many colors, shapes and sizes. Owner Kay Cline showed me some of her favorites growing in the gardens. Hydra, an unusually formed, vibrant yellow-green double daylily, had impressive, 8.5-inch blooms adorned with
ARTICLE | Dr. Eddie Smith
PHOTOS | Courtesy of MSU Extension Service
teeth-like edges. This variety is relatively tall, often reaching 32-48 inches. Foliage consists of long, arching, grass-like leaves that form a dense clump. Another of her favorites was Cross Bones, which featured delicate ruffled edges in a striking orchid-purple hue with a yellow-green throat. The color patterns were breathtaking, making it a true eye-catcher in the garden.
The 7-inch flowers of Cross Bones grew high above the foliage on sturdy stems reaching 32 inches tall, making them quite prominent in the garden. This daylily produces 26-30 buds and is known for its extended blooming period. Daylilies with ruffled and toothed petals have always been among my top picks. Buddy’s Kayla is a prime example that stood out as a rock star. Its black-purple blooms with green throats and white-toothed edges were mesmerizing. It’s important to note that daylilies do not grow from bulbs but from bare roots. These roots store essential nutrients and energy, enabling the plants to endure harsh conditions and re-grow each year.
For optimal growth, plant daylilies in full sun in moist but well-drained soil. In hot climates, dark-colored cultivars benefit from afternoon shade to maintain their vibrant colors.
When planted in the right conditions, daylilies can bloom year after year with minimal care. Their resilience and stunning beauty make them delightful additions to gardens. I hope daylilies become one of your favorite plants, too..
Dr. Eddie Smith is a gardening specialist and Pearl River County Agent with the Mississippi State University Extension Service. He is also host of the popular Southern Gardening television program. Locate Southern Gardening products online at www.extension.msstate.edu/shows/southern-gardening.
BONES | Cross Bones daylilies produce 26-30 buds, giving them an extended blooming period
HYDRA | Hydra is an unusually formed, yellow-green double daylily with impressive 8.5-inch blooms
KAYLA | Buddy’s Kayla daylily has black-purple blooms with green throats and white-toothed edges
SCENE MCCOMB, MS
The Junior Auxiliary of McComb, Mississippi, installed their 2024-2025 Executive Board of Officers and new Active Members at their Spring Luncheon in April 2024. While at the National Association of Junior Auxiliaries AEC meeting in Memphis, Tennessee, they received two prestigious awards—Outstanding Crown Club Project and the Martha Wise Award for Existing Project, the beloved Camp Sunshine!
Front—Darion Fortenberry, Ashley Stovall, Michelle Cooksey, and Candi Reid / Row 2—Brittany Raybon, Courtney Richard, and Megan Spring / Row 3—Robin Bonds and Becky Simmons / Back—Whitney Turner and Whitney Campbell
Front—Melisa DeCoux, Adrian Hammon, Megan Spring, Leigh Ann Badon, and Liza Wallace / Row 2—Geralyn Putman, Charly Schmidt, and Brooklyn Schmidt / Row 3—Emily Scott Sanders, Magan Legg, and Anna Aucoin / Row 4—Katie Price, Sara DeLong, and Haylie Blossman
Candi Reid, Darion Fortenberry, Brittany Raybon, Laci Godbold, Ashley Stovall, Michelle Cooksey, Carlie Stutzman, Whitney Turner, Megan Spring, Kristen McBeth, and Whitney Campbell
The William Dunbar Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution held its May meeting on Monday, May 13, 2024, in Natchez, Mississippi, at Gloucester, the home of associate member Mrs. Elizabeth Walters. Chapter members were greeted by Mrs. Walters, and light snacks were served. Members and their guests then enjoyed a presentation by Dr. Marc Matrana of New Orleans, Louisiana, entitled “Southern Architecture: Lost & Found.” After the meeting, Dr. Matrana, a prominent oncologist at Oschner Hospital in New Orleans and also a published historian, stayed to sign copies of his books. His latest book, Southern Splendor: Saving Architectural Treasures of the Old South, published by University Press of Mississippi, is now available. To honor Mrs. Walters for her hospitality and service to the chapter, William Dunbar Chapter members donated a signed copy of Southern Splendor in her name to the Copiah-Lincoln Community College’s Carolyn Vance Smith Natchez Collection.
Caroline Cole, Regent, William Dunbar Chapter NSDA, with Dr. Marc Matrana View of Gloucester gardens
Caroline Cole speaking to the attendees
Dr. Matrana speaking to the chapter members and guests
Brilliant red, glistening purple. A mosaic of colors from green to gold. Tomatoes in all their variety are the jewels of the summer garden, and recipes for their use are just as varied as their colors.
While every cook seems to have a favorite way to prepare or preserve the bounty of summer tomatoes, a few favorites seem universal. Among these is the tomato sandwich. Some tomato sandwich connoisseurs are satisfied with two pieces of bread and a slather of store-bought mayonnaise IF the tomato is fresh and home grown. Others, however, have more refined tastes.
Take, for example, the classic tomato sandwich served as an appetizer. This recipe is so associated with a certain river city that it is commonly called the Vicksburg Tomato Sandwich. Church and community cookbooks from this city abound with versions of the recipe.
Most recipes agree that a real Vicksburg Tomato Sandwich is on homemade bread with homemade
mayonnaise. Our version is shared by Jimmie Ruth Doyle of Newellton, Louisiana. The recipe relies on garden-fresh cherry tomatoes to make appetizer-sized sandwiches. For true authenticity, try our recipe’s homemade mayonnaise with your tomato sandwiches. If you are feeling more daring, spread on our hot sauce aioli from the recipe on page 22.
Tomatoes are also the jewels in Sopping Salad. As the name implies, the juice from the tomatoes helps to create an olive-oil-based dressing that is perfect for dipping up with homemade bread.
Soups are another favorite use for tomatoes. Stay cool on the hottest days with gazpacho, a Spanish soup made with roasted garden vegetables and rich chicken stock. Also, try our cream of tomato soup recipe, using fresh tomatoes; this soup may be served hot or cold.
Enjoy tomatoes, the jewels of the summer garden, whether from your own garden, the farmers market, or the generosity of neighbors.
Ingredients:
15 slices loaf bread
20 cherry tomatoes
1 cup favorite mayonnaise
Salt Pepper Paprika
Juice of 1 lemon
Using a one-inch biscuit cutter, cut four circles from each slice of bread. Place bread rounds on a baking sheet and reserve.
Cover a second baking sheet with paper towels. Wash and stem cherry tomatoes. Slice off bottom and top of each tomato and discard the trimmed pieces. Slice the cherry tomatoes into horizonal slices and place the tomato slices on the paper towels to drain while you prepare the bread. Spread each bread round with mayonnaise and top with a tomato slice. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika; and sprinkle with lemon juice.
Yield: Makes 60 sandwiches and serves 30 Jimmie Ruth Doyle; Newellton, Louisiana
Ingredients:
1 large egg
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
¼ teaspoon salt
1 cup neutral flavored oil (Sunflower or canola works well.)
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
Add egg to the small bowl of a food processor and process for 20 seconds. Add mustard, vinegar, and salt. Process for another 20 seconds. Stop processing and scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl.
Turn on the food processor and begin to slowly add the oil in drops until about a quarter of the oil has been added. Do this slowly to ensure proper emulsion so that the mayonnaise will not separate.
As the mixture begins to thicken, increase the amount of oil added from a few drops to a very thin stream of oil. When all the oil has been added, stop processing and scrape the bottom and sides of the bowl; then process for an extra 10 seconds.
Taste mayonnaise for seasoning; then add salt, lemon juice, or extra vinegar to taste. If the mayo seems too thin, slowly stream in more oil with the processor running until thick. If it is too thick, add a teaspoon or two of cold water.
NOTE: Use a small blender or small food processor to make the mayonnaise. Using a large container can prevent the mayonnaise from blending completely resulting in mayonnaise that separates.
Can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Yield: Makes 1 cup
Ingredients:
3 tablespoons light mayonnaise
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon lemon juice
½ tablespoon hot sauce
With a whisk or fork, combine light mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and hot sauce in a small bowl. Cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days until ready to serve.
LSU AgCenter recipes
Ingredients:
2 cups French bread cubes, toasted
2½ pounds fresh tomatoes
1 medium red onion, quartered
1 medium bell pepper, quartered and seeded
2 medium jalapeño peppers, halved and seeded
4 cloves garlic
¼ cup olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 medium cucumber, peeled and seeded (about 1 cup)
1 tablespoon salt
2 cups chicken stock
Garnishes (optional): olive oil, fresh basil, cilantro, or oregano
Pre-heat oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Rinse and dry all vegetables. Remove stem end of tomatoes. Place tomatoes, cut side down, on a baking sheet; and bake until skin begins to peel (about 10 minutes). Let tomatoes cool; then remove skins. Place tomatoes in the container of a large blender. Place remaining vegetables, oil, and seasoning in a medium bowl. Toss to coat vegetables. Spread on baking sheet, and bake at 425 degrees Fahrenheit until vegetables begin to blister and char (about 15 minutes). Cool.
Place vegetables in a large blender. Process until smooth. Add 1½ cups bread cubes, and process until smooth. Transfer mixture to a large bowl. Stir in broth. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
Serve cold with remaining bread cubes. Garnish with additional olive oil or fresh herbs if desired.
Yield: Serves 4-6
LSU AgCenter recipes
Ingredients:
8 large tomatoes, diced, or 2 (28-ounce) cans of diced tomatoes
1 stick butter
1 medium onion, diced ¼ cup all-purpose flour
4 (28-ounce) cans diced tomatoes
1¼ cups chicken broth
¼ cup sugar
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon celery salt
1 teaspoon pepper
1 cup half and half
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Add onions; and cook gently, stirring occasionally, until soft and translucent, about 20 minutes.
Add flour and stir until mixture is slightly thickened and pale gold, about 3 minutes; do not allow to brown. Stir in the tomatoes and their juices, chicken broth, sugar, salt, celery salt, and pepper. Raise heat to medium until the liquid bubbles; then reduce heat to low. Simmer for 30 minutes, frequently scraping the bottom of the pot.
Stir in half-and-half. Remove from heat and purée using a hand blender; OR allow to cool until no longer steaming, and purée in batches in a stand blender. Return to medium heat just until heated through or refrigerate and serve cold.
Yield: Serves 4-6
LSU AgCenter recipes
ARTICLE | Cecilia
Cecilia Stevens (B.A. LSU and M.ED. Louisiana Tech) resides in Concordia Parish, works for the LSU AgCenter, and is the parent of two adult children.
At historic Choctaw Hall in Natchez, Mississippi, Olivia Wilkerson, wife of Josh Wilkerson, was honored with a baby shower given by Leah Ulmer and Lisa Wilkerson. David Garner and Lee Glover, owners of the home, were the perfect hosts as guests enjoyed their tour of Choctaw Hall along with its beautiful gardens. The ensuing brunch on the back verandah included chicken salad sandwiches with almond slivers and grapes, curry cheese with a mango chutney in phyllo cups, a selection of quiches (Florentine, Garden Vegetable, Lorraine, and Monterey Jack), tea biscuits with pork tenderloin and horseradish sauce, fruit salad with poppy seed dressing, and delicious decorated desserts from The Butter Cakery in Natchez, Mississippi, along with pink champagne and citrus almond punch mimosas.
Olivia Wilkerson
Colorful plant display welcomes guests. Leah Ulmer, Olivia Wilkerson, and Lisa Wilkerson
Leah Ulmer and Josh Wilkerson
Brunch and delicious desserts served on beautiful tablescapes
Claire Ulmer, Mary Catherine Wilkerson, Leah Ulmer, Olivia and Josh Wilkerson, and Maggie Ulmer
In 1942, the United States Army acquired over 41,000 acres of land in Mississippi’s Wilkinson and Amite Counties to construct Camp Van Dorn for basic and divisional infantry training. The camp was home to two major Infantry Divisions: the 99th (“Checkerboard”) and the 63rd (“Blood and Fire”) that played out-standing roles in winning World War II. Also at the camp were many non-divisional advanced units including WAC (Women’s Army Corps), medical outfits, engineers, signal and ordnance battalions, field artillery, and quartermaster units. This also was a German POW (prisoner of war) camp.
The population of Camp Van Dorn was about 41,000 military personnel at any given time during 1942 to 1945. Referred to as a “Theatre of Operations Camp,” Van Dorn had a positive impact on the small town of Centreville and its surrounding communities including Woodville, Gloster, Liberty, Meadville, Bude, McComb, Natchez, and Vicksburg in Mississippi and Baton Rouge, Louisiana. These areas provided workers to build the camp and provide support services for the camp and families of the troops.
The camp was named after General Earl Van Dorn, who was Mississippi born in 1820, entered West Point at
age 16, fought in the War with Mexico, and distinguished himself against the Comanche and Apache Native Americans. When Mississippi left the Union in 1861, Van Dorn resigned from the U.S. Army and joined the Confederacy. He was an outstanding leader in all of his military affairs.
Established to defend the United States, Europe, and the world from tyranny, Camp Van Dorn consisted of barracks and headquarters buildings that accommodated 39,114 enlisted men, 2,173 officers, a station hospital with a bed capacity of 750, and a chapel. During its short three-year existence, this camp also was a source of area entertainment, social dances, romance, and marriage. The camp closed at the end of 1945, being deemed surplus following World War II.
Today, a museum dedicated to Camp Van Dorn in Centreville, Mississippi, honors the memory of the brave
men and women who trained and worked at the camp. The museum’s dedication ceremony was held March 19, 2005, with members of the 99th and 63rd Divisions in attendance. The museum has two dioramas of a section of Camp Van Dorn and a scenic representation of the Siegfried Line. In 1945, the 63rd Infantry Division breached the formerly impenetrable Siegfried Line (Germany’s West Wall) in fifteen days of fierce combat. These two dioramas were created by Ginny Randall, the museum’s Director.
Also in the museum are collections donated by former soldiers or their families, collections that include photographs, programs, posters, and newspaper clippings relating to the many activities that took place during the life of the camp; flags, uniforms, helmets, guns, and displays of silk souvenir pillow cases that were sent home to mothers, wives, and
sweethearts; and a Wall of Fame featuring photographs of a number of the men who trained at Camp Van Dorn.
The museum—a fascinating stroll through history with so many stories of patriotism, gratitude, and loyalty, attesting not only to the significant role Camp Van Dorn played in training the many soldiers who arrived here for war, but also to the many ways this local area supported the camp—is perfect for a short day’s outing with the family during the summer and particularly perfect as part of your Fourth of July celebration week!
The museum, located at 138 Main Street in downtown Centreville, is open Tuesday and Friday afternoons from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Admission is free, and special tours can be arranged by contacting the museum. Christine Clarke serves the museum as its docent, and Ginny Randall is the director of
this non-profit entity. The museum accepts general donations, memorials, and honorariums; and it also hosts an annual Thanksgiving Bake Sale to fund its operations.
ARTICLE | Cheryl Rinehart
A royal party was hosted by the families of The Natchez Garden Club Magnolia Festival King Bankston Jordan and Queen Olivia Edgin on Friday, April 5, 2024, at The Briars in Natchez, Mississippi. Members of the 2024 royalty, their families, NGC board members, and guests enjoyed an evening of music, fine dining, and special spirits.
Photography by Bill Perkins.
Jennifer Lessley and Lyda Jordan
Jennifer Lessley, Mary Lessley, and Renee Adams
Dianne Brown, Sharon Williams, Lauren Middleton, and Vicki Netterville
Michael Rinehart and Ken Williams
Josh Beach and Daniel Case
April, Vivian, and Dallas Bass
Max Mason and Emily Carol Loy
Wes and Lauren Middleton, Paige Carter, and Natalie and Nestor Navarro
Elizabeth and AB Walters with Lyda Jordan
Keith and Angie Huff
Emma Orr, Tatum Brumfield, Maggie Blankenstein, Harper Carter, Adalyn Kate Jordan, Mason Navarro, Jaxson Beach, Jake Middleton, Brody Bass, and Grayson Tosspon
Charles and Doug Jordan
Margaret Jordan, Juliana Galbreath, Drew Mulvihill, Bankston Jordan, and Lori Easterling
Lauren Middleton, Joanna Kidder, and Catherine Callon
Hunter Knight, Olivia Edgin, and Sarah Hanson
Clara Newman with AB and Elizabeth Walters
Jennifer and Joel Lessley with Jennifer Smith
Olivia Edgin, Vicki Netterville, and Brenda Edgin
Melton and Kathy King with Scott and Nancy Kimbrell
Dow Hairston and Layla McCall
Pete, Storee, Page, and Caroline Williams
Majorie Meng, Michael Boykin, and Susie Pyron
Ken and Sharon Williams
Aaron and Jason Hennington with Lyda Jordan
Amy Jones, Angie Huff, Susie Pyron, Ethan Huff, and Hannah Mason
Summertime. Vacation time. Let’s go to the beach for a week! It will be fun! It will be relaxing! We will have quality time with our family!
This is what I have heard for the last fifty years of my life; and pretty much every year, I would join in for the sake of family, friends, whatever. The secret I kept to myself all that time is that I do not like the beach. I do not like the sticky sand; I do not like roasting in the sun; I do not like hiding under an umbrella and having one foot be exposed and have it burned so badly in fifteen minutes that I can’t wear a shoe for days afterwards.
I do not like waves that knock me down and keep pounding me so that I cannot get up. Did I say I do not like sticky sand? This time of year, I always had to work out in the sun and the heat and thought it plumb ignorant to pay a nice amount of money to drive six hours to be in the heat and sun in a different location. A location with sticky sand at that.
But my children loved it, so I went. My grandchildren enjoyed it, so I went. I liked seeing them have fun while I was roasting and getting covered in sticky sand. Going out to eat was a bonus, for there was always fresh seafood. None of the restaurants could beat the good places in Lafayette or the surrounding small towns, but it was better than having to cook another meal.
In the last few years, even eating out was a hassle. We would have to wait up to an hour just to get seated in most places, then another hour for food to arrive. I guess I am just too country to think that this is a good thing. One time, when JG and Woodrow were small, we just walked out after an hour in a very popular place and went to a Waffle House and got omelets and pancakes; and they were delicious.
There used to be some really good old places to eat in Destin and surrounding areas, but hurricanes pretty much destroyed them, and they were not built back. The new places were pretty much carbon copies of each other and, in my opinion, not worth the long waits.
While the beach has never been my cuppa, I am glad that we were able to provide the experience for our children and grandchildren. Some of them are planning to go to the beach again this summer, but I will not be with them this time. It’s not the sticky sand holding me here on Tupelo Brake, but a not-really-strong back and damaged knee that find it hard to navigate on the beach. Better for me to stay on solid ground, tend to my only seven dogs and two dozen chickens, take care of all the flowers I swore I wouldn’t plant, and put up the produce from the garden in jars of salsa and pickles and relish.
Staying here on soil instead of sand will suit me just fine.
ARTICLE | Alma M. Womack
Alma M. Womack lives on Smithland Plantation on Black River, south of Jonesville, Louisiana. In addition to her duties as maitresse des maison, she is the keeper of the lawn, the lane, and the pecan orchard at Smithland.
We
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Easter Delights
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May/June
Healthy Lifestyles
Summertime Fun
Salute to Graduates
July/August
Patriotic Celebrations
Featuring Local Artists
Summertime Adventure
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Back to School Traditions
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Holiday Decor
Holiday Traditions
Holiday Foods & Finds
Descendants of Dr. Thomas Oswald
Woods held a Family Reunion on April 13, 2024, at the Wilkinson County Recreation Park in Woodville, Mississippi. Members mingled and viewed various exhibits and photographs. Afterwards, Mitchell Whitaker presented a program tracing Dr. Woods’s ancestry back to the mid-1600s. Following the program, refreshments were served.
Photos by Lisa Whittington
Janie and John Whitaker
Glen Ray Whetstone and Linda Cosey
Jennings Owens and Lallie Bennett
Linda and Joe Whitaker with Brooke Jackson
Grant Whitaker Guthrie and Marsha Guthrie
Tucker, Caroline, and Bentley Curry
Mark, Tanya, and Mark Curry, Jr.
Allie Joyce, Crystal, and Nathan Mudd
Holli Walker, Emma Walker, and Alex Ventress
Alex Ventress, Ann Catchings
Ventress, and Liz Ventress Patin
Susan Holmes and Dick Holmes
Burt and Tara Whitaker
Ashley and Brent Carson with family
Carolyn Gross and Mary Whitaker McKey
Betty and Charles Sessions
Toni Key and Deborah Vines
Margaret Plettigen Mitchell
Sadie Whitaker Gilbert and Brooke Whitaker Gremillion
Vidalia Mills is Leading the Way in Non-GMO Cotton and Local Craftsmanship.
Established in 2018, Vidalia Mills, located in Vidalia, Louisiana, has established itself as a pioneer in the textile industry by using non-GMO cotton and crafting high-quality products in Vidalia, Louisiana. By sourcing cotton from Concordia Parish, Tensas Parish, the Mississippi Delta, and Texas, Vidalia Mills not only ensures the finest raw materials for its products but also supports the local economy and community.
Genetic modification (GMO) often poses risks to biodiversity and environmental health, the reason why Vidalia Mills chooses to steer clear of such practices and opted in 2023 for non-GMO Heirloom Pima Cotton, pollinated naturally by bees. These more sustainable farming practices maintain soil health, reduce erosion, and eliminate the need for harmful chemicals. Such actions not only benefit the environment but also result in higher-quality, safer products for consumers.
A unique aspect of Vidalia Mills' production process is the use of antique X3 Draper looms, the very same looms that once produced the iconic Levi’s 501 jeans. The denim woven on these looms is prized by denim aficionados around the world because of its unique look, feel, and durability. In 2024 Vidalia Mills commenced its own ringspinning, bringing all facets of production under one roof. The team has installed and calibrated an in-house finishing range that improves the final quality of their denim across the board. The use of these historical looms preserves traditional American craftsmanship while integrating modern techniques to meet contemporary demands.
In addition to denim, Vidalia Mills produces long-staple premium cotton yarn for t-shirts, knit apparel, and fleece wear, supplying to boutique brands such as Left Field, Brave Star Selvage, and Imogene & Willie, and to international retailers Gap, Rag & Bone, and Todd Snyder. This global reach not only showcases the talent and dedication found in Vidalia, Louisiana, but also positions Vidalia Mills as a leading player in the global textile industry.
The company currently has 105 employees and an annual payroll of seven million dollars, and continues to grow and reach new markets. It remains committed to its core values, ensuring that every piece of fabric tells a story of dedication, tradition, and excellence for the people of Vidalia. Visit www.vidaliamills.com for additional information about Vidalia Mills.
ARTICLE | Luke Cockerhan
PHOTOS | Courtesy of Vidalia Mills
Luke Cockerhan is the Director of Administration at Vidalia Mills, in Vidalia, Louisiana. In his spare time he enjoys traveling, and is an art and history enthusiast.
I don’t know if you have travelled lately to any big cities, but it has become a common eye sore in some cities to observe tent cities and people standing on street corners begging for money, panhandling, or dealing in drugs.
I recently travelled to New Orleans and went under the bridges at the Superdome, and I was shocked by the large number of tents pitched under the overpass. It seemed the tents stretched maybe a mile.
I have never understood why cities have tolerated such chaos for the simple reason that these “shanty towns” almost always lead to crime, subhuman conditions, and disease.
This story has its origin in the state of Oregon where a small town called Grant’s Pass outlawed tent cities and vagrancy in public parks; or rather, they started enforcing such laws. It seems that the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, which is a Federal Appeals Court, in San Francisco recently ruled that Grant’s Pass or any other city in the western-most states could not enact or enforce anti-vagrancy laws.
In the court’s opinion, such laws violated the Eighth Amendment to the Constitution. The definition of vagrancy is “homelessness,” and the Eighth Amendment to the Constitution states in part that the government shall not inflict “cruel or unusual punishment” or penalties upon citizens. Well, it seems the Ninth Circuit, which has always leaned to the liberal side of things, ruled that, if the town of Grant’s Pass, Oregon, wishes to outlaw and disperse vagrants from the city park and public places, the Constitution requires that the city supply substitute housing for any displaced or dispersed citizen.
In the first place, that is perhaps the longest stretch that I have ever seen a court make in applying “the cruel and unusual punishment” clause of the Eighth Amendment. Actually, what you are witnessing is a court trying to act in the place and stead of the state legislature, if not the United States Congress. This a court cannot do. Furthermore, the Eighth Amendment almost always pertains to felony crime. Ironically, the Ninth Circuit issued an injunction prohibiting the clearing out of vagrants or tent cities; and this caused an inevitable explosion of such in communities, all in western states. Even San Francisco objected saying that the encampments had become so intolerable that the public could not venture into public parks anymore.
The United States Supreme Court judges granted Certiorari, which means they are going to make the final decision. They heard the case on appeal in April; and while we do not know their decision, based on questioning from the conservative wing of the court, the justices were concerned about turning major cities into third-world microcosms.
While a decision will probably not come down until the fall of this year, based upon some of the questions posed by the members of the court, hopefully the handwriting is on the wall.
Justice Amy Coney Barrett, who in my opinion is brilliant, asked, “If the constitution forbids the government from outlawing actions and appurtenances used in public vagrancy,
then does the Constitution then make it impossible for a city to limit the use of fires and encampments, tents, those kinds of temporary shelters? Who determines when the public’s safety is so threatened that outlawing the behavior is no longer cruel and unusual.”
In other words, should courts be legislating behavior, both for the vagrant as well as the governing local authorities. Keep in mind that the court’s job is not to legislate, but rather to interpret existing laws. There is no law, including the U.S. Constitution, which states that municipalities become babysitters for illegal vagrants.
The attorneys for the City of Grant’s Pass argued, “The Eighth Amendment really doesn’t give us any answer to what cities can or cannot prohibit. It’s administratively impossible for cities on the ground, as well as the courts, to administer if courts become embroiled in all of this.” Besides, vagrancy laws are on the books in towns and cities all over this country and have been for over 200 years, and society has never viewed laws against such as cruel and unusual punishment.
Even the Governor of California, Gavin Newsom, filed a friend-of-the-court brief; and he argued, “Courts are not wellsuited to micromanage such nuanced policy issues based on ill-defined rules.”
Now the question becomes, if the Supreme Court upholds anti-vagrancy laws, which I believe they will, are the cities and towns going to enforce them and start to clean up the messes that have sprung up all over the country?
Well, I hope your summer travels don’t lead you to any tent cities. I can assure you they are not pretty.
ARTICLE | Sam Gwin
Lucien C. “Sam” Gwin III was admitted to the Mississippi Bar in 1981 and has been practicing many aspects of the law at the firm of Gwin, Punches & Kelley in Natchez, Mississippi, ever since.
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louisianatravel.com
A great site for everything Louisiana
ALEXANDRIA / PINEVILLE
alexandriapinevillela.com rapidessymphony.org riveroaksartscenter.com lagniappetheatre.com themuseum.org
BATON ROUGE visitbatonrouge.com lsumoa.org rivercenterarena: baton-rouge. tickets-center.com batonrougeballet.org Red Stick Farmers Market Breada.com brso.org lasm.org
Saturdays in July & August Red Stick Farmers Market 5th & Main Sts. 8 am – Noon
Red White & Blues: A 4th of July Fest Galvez Plaza 200-238 North Blvd. 6 – 10 pm / Free
July 4 Fireworks on the Mississippi 9 pm
4th of July Concert
Baton Rouge Concert Band Main Branch East Baton Rouge Parish Library Plaza 7 pm / Free
July 6 & August 3
BR Arts Market
Red Stick Farmers Market 8 am – Noon
FERRIDAY concordialibrary.org deltamusicmuseum.com
July 6
LSJ Flotilla Lake St. John 2 pm & Fireworks at Dusk
visitmississippi.org hikinginmississippi.com
BROOKHAVEN
FB: VisitBrookhavenMS visitbrookhavenms.com brookhavenrecreation.com brookhavenlittletheatre.com llf.lib.ms.us
July 5 - 7 Washington Parish Watermelon Festival
August 22 - 25
Gueydan Duck Festival duckfestival.org
NEW ORLEANS
neworleanscvb.com ogdenmuseum.org nola.org FB: nolajazzmuseum/live newcombartmuseum.tulane.edu neworleansfilmsociety.org neworleanscitypark.com
______________________
PORT ALLEN westbatonrouge.net westbatonrougemuseum.com
July & August Site Events westbatonrougemuseum.com
ST. FRANCISVILLE audubonstatehistoricsite. wordpress.com explorewestfeliciana.com/ events stfrancisvillefestivals.com
St. Francisville Farmers Martet Every Thursday 9961 Wilcox St. 9 am – 1 pm
VIDALIA cityofvidaliala.com concordialibrary.org
Wednesdays Farmers Market Old Court House N. Spruce St. 9 am – 1 pm
July 19
Summer Concert Series The Lincoln Outfit Railroad Park Stage 7 – 9 pm
JACKSON dulinghall.com msmuseumart.org visitjackson.com jacksonfreepress.com/ calendarmsnla.org balletms.com msmetroballet.com operams.org downtown-jackson.com newstagetheatre.com
Through November 8
Exhibition: Flags from Mississippi–Emblems Through Time
Two Mississippi Museums Downtown
Through September 22
Mississippi Museum of Art What Became of Dr. Smith Tues. – Sat. 11 am – 5 pm Sun. 1 – 5 pm msmuseumart.org 601.960.1515
July 13
BTC 2nd Saturday Belhaven Town Center 800 Manship
J
July
July
Christmas
July 26 – 27
Natchez Food & Wine Festival natchezfoodandwine.com
August 22 – 25
Vintage Hitchcock
A Live Radio Plan
Natchez Little Theatre Thurs. – Sat. 7:30 pm Sun. 2 pm
601.442.2233 natchezlittletheatre.com
RIDGELAND/MADISON
visitridgeland.com madisonthecity.com craftsmensguildofms.org mscrafts.org
Tuesdays
Farmers Market
Main St. @ Caboose 3:30 – 6:30 pm
PHILADELPHIA
July 10 - 13
Choctaw Indian Fair choctawindianfair.com
July 26 - August 2
Neshoba County Fair neshobacountyfair.org
TYLERTOWN
August 24
Live Music on the Lawn: Gospel-Jazz of Love 413 Hwy. 98 East 6:30 – 9:30 pm / $20
VICKSBURG
visitvicksburg.com
vicksburgartassociation.org vicksburgtheatreguild.com downtownvicksburg.org
Farmers Market Corner of Jackson St. & Washington St. 8 am – Noon
July 4
Fireworks Display Music Dr. Zar Downtown 7 pm
July 13
Second Saturday Downtown 11 am – FB Vicksburg Second Saturday
July 19 – 21 & 26 – 28
Shrek The Musical, JR Vicksburg Theatre Guild Fri. – Sat. 7:30 pm / Sun. 2 pm
July 27
Warren County Open Golf Tournament Clear Creek Golf Course 8 am
August 16 – 18
A Southern Antiques Affair Leveen St. Market 601.618.0811 _______________________
WOODVILLE
woodvillems.org
woodvillemainstreet.org FB Woodville/Wilkinson County Main Street Association
the natchez garden club presents
WHEN:
5th Grade / January 26, February 2, 9, 16, & 23 / 3:00–4:30 p.m.
6th Grade / January 26, February 2, 9, 16, & 23 / 5:00–6:30 p.m.
WHERE:
Ellicott Hall
211 N. Canal Street, Natchez
WHO:
Open registration for all 5th-6th grade boys and girls
HOW: EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION DEADLINE AUGUST 31, 2024
NATCHEZGARDENCLUB.ORG
JJunior Cotillion gives middle school boys and girls training and practice in social skills that will build connections, confidence, and self-assurance. As adults, we know the lessons, social skills, and dancing learned in Cotillion will benefit these participants for years to come. Middle school students may not see these reasons. Our job as parents is to weigh the benefits of an opportunity, look beyond
their apprehensions, and gently push their boundaries while supporting them along the way.
For early bird registration and application, visit natchezgardenclub.org through August 31, 2024. Receive $25 off tuition and reserve your child’s spot. Each class has a limited enrollment size. For more information, contact Cheryl Rinehart at (601) 807-3082 or cherylrinehart25@gmail.com
natchezgardenclub.org • ph - 601.443.9065
