Signature Magazine March 2012

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The Hunt is on for the Perfect Puppy...

MEDICAL CENTER Come see all of us inside Animal Medical Cente1: All our pets are vet checked & health guaranteed

No Time 2 Cook is a gourmet frozen food company specializing in Cajun and Southern Fare.

Fine frozen foods provide delicious heat and eat meals with a focus on Available at Lovie's quality.

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Fortunata pottery is inspired by the Italian word for "luck".

Each handcrafted piece captures the tradition ofthe ancient Tuscan workshops where the ceramics are skillfully hand thrown using a unique mixture ofselect clays.

Fortunato pottery Is available at Lovie's

601 .450.4438 Gift Boutique & Cafe

6565 Hwy 98 West Suite 150 â&#x20AC;˘ Hattiesburg

Do you suffer from chronic sinus pain?

You may have tried a variety of medical treatments and therapy, with little or no results.

If so you may be a candidate for the Balloon Sinuplastyâ&#x201E;˘ treatment. Dr. Ray Weiss uses breakthrough technology to relieve your sinus discomfort. This technique utilizes a flexible balloon catheter to gently restructure and widen sinus walls which opens blocked passageways. iBalloon is our unique, comprehensive Balloon Sinuplastyâ&#x201E;˘ program, which consists of three parts: in-office diagnostic testing , state-of-the-art pre-treatment planning and a minimally invasive procedure (performed at our outpatient surgery center or in our office) .

The results are clear sinuses with much less pain and downtime.

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Prime Care FAMILY HEALTH All your family needs.

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SINCE 1987 35 Byrd Blvd, Suite 1001

I Petal, MS 1601-582-4222 I www.cartersjewelry.com

Please Join Us

February

17th at 11 AM

Evergreen Room at Wesley

Medical Center

Dr. Charles Mayes::

Hattiesburg Heart & Vascular

Heart Disease can affect women of any age. Join us as Dr. Mayes shares what women need to know to stay healthy and what they need to know once diagnosed. Lunch begins at 11 a.m., program at 11:30 a.m.

Call 601.268.8192 to register. Senior Circle Members- $3 Non-Members- $7. Visit Wesley.com for details.

WESLEY Medical Center

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W11en y ouY li-Pe's on tl1e line) cl1oose tl1e aYea's only AccYedited C.l1est Pain C-enter.

11-le ar-ea's only Accr-edited C,/1est Pain C,enteY. Knowing where to go for expert cardiac care can make all the difference if you're having a heart attack. So you should know that Wesley Medical Center is the first and only hospital in this area to be recognized as a nationally Accredited Chest Pain Center. That means we have the doctors, technology and procedures in place to provide lifesaving care fast. For more information on our advanced cardiac care, visit Wesley.com.

If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 .

WESLEY Emergency Services

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Features MARCH 2012 Volume VI Issue 12

Spring Fashion

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Fashion statement

A step up

This year’s spring fashions are in style and a statement for everyone – from the diva to the bombshell, the flirt to the socialite.

This month’s cover model, Lauren Jones of Jackson, is creating her own fashion empire, one step at a time.

by Beth Bunch

42

49

On the catwalk

Hattiesburg’s Ashley Eades has walked the fashion runways in Milan, Paris and New York. And now he’s come back home.

by Beth Bunch

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An artist by choice

A naturalist, Robbin Lee loves the outdoors. That love is reflected in many of the pieces of handcrafted jewelry she puts together with finds from around the world.

by Beth Bunch

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A lot of bling A group of elite models will strut the latest in spring fashions during C Studio’s Elite Fashion Show.

by Beth Bunch

Hattiesburg’s Megan Cave poses for fashion shots in preparation for the April 15 C Studio Elite Fashion Show. photograph by Lee Cave

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MARCH 2012

Departments

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95

40

30

Happenings

112: The Signature Q&A: Brigitte Burgess

Neighbors

Cuisine

Scene

17 Irish/Italian Festival: Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find the luck of the Irish and a pot of fun.

30 Motley Krewes: Mystic Krewe of Zeus and Krewe of Elks celebrate carnival.

40 Get dressed: Have some decency dress your salad.

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DAFS Fundraiser: Raising awareness to combat abuse.

18 Events: Festivals and theater performances with a mix of fundraising.

37 Meet: Valerie Warrington, following a fashion dream.

41 Q&A: Richard Pope has worked in the food industry since he was 18.

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Ross Anniversary: Mr. and Mrs. Perry Ross celebrate 40 years.

99

Night with Bowden: FCA hosts second all-time winningest coach.

20 Distinguished: Lamar, Forrest join ranks for Dist. Young Woman.

38 House calls: United Way of SE Miss. Home Sweet Home raffle is underway.

100 Pinocchio: American Family Theatre presents classic.

22 Noteworthy: Meet Abigail Lenz, former lead singer of Swamp Boogie Queen.

101 Petal DYW: Madison Kolbo is 2013 winner.

24 Festival South: Sandi Patty to headline.

104 Debutante Ball: Hattiesburg Debutante Assoc. presents 32 women.

106 Evening of Giving: ADP showcases non-profits.

ON THE COVER: Lauren Jones is pretty in pink. photograph by LEE CAVE clothes and accessories by MATERIAL GIRLS

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Former rock-n-roll bad girl from L.A. finds a humble home in the Pine Belt â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Page 22

107 Girl Scout Gala: Red Carpet Event fetes Scouts.

108 Percy Watson Gala: In its 23rd year, gala shows appreciation.

110 MSU Alums: SE Miss. chapter welcome Stricklin.

111 Elvis Fundraiser: Mike Russell raises Relay funds.

Prologue:

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103 N. 40th Ave., Hattiesburg, MS 39401 (601) 268-2331 -tel (601) 268-2965 -fax { STAFF }

DAVID GUSTAFSON | EDITOR/PUBLISHER david@HubCitySPOKES.com

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No responsibility can be assumed for unsolicited manuscripts, articles, or photographs. We reserve the right to edit submissions before publication. Signature Magazine is a product of Hattiesburg Publishing, Inc., proud publisher of The Lamar Times, The Petal News, Camp Shelby Reveille, HubCitySPOKES.com and PineBeltSPORTS.com and is distributed at more than 200 locations in and around Hattiesburg. Mail subscriptions are available for home delivery. For subscriptions or inquiries, write Signature Magazine, 103 N. 40th Ave., Hattiesburg, MS 39401, or call (601) 268-2331. Copyright 2012 by Hattiesburg Publishing, Inc. Find us online at:

HubCitySPOKES.com

The Fickle World of Fashion

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ves Saint-Laurent said, “Fashions fade, style is eternal.” To me, that simple statement speaks volumes about the world of fashion. From one day to the next, you never know what new trends will pop up on the runway or in the store windows. Your favorite dress could end up on the “what not to wear” list in just a few short months. This got me thinking about fashions I embraced through the course of my life that eventually faded away.

I was an impeccably dressed child, thanks to my mother.

My wardrobe consisted of beautifully smocked dresses, knee socks and patent leather Mary Janes. Now, babies in blue jeans are the norm. Most moms tell me they don’t bother dressing up their kids because they never stay clean. My mom lucked up on that one. According to her, I cried if I got dirty. While my friends played in the dirt, I would stand to the side and watch so I wouldn’t mess up my pretty clothes. I’m sure my husband will tell you I haven’t changed much.

When I was in elementary school, my favorite fashion trends were colored Girbaud jeans and jelly shoes. I begged my mom to buy me a pair of red jellies, and was devastated when she said no. Luckily, my grandmother wasn’t as immune to my pleas, and the shoes eventually ended up in my closet.

A big hit to my wardrobe came when the Catholic school I attended decided to implement uniforms. Most pictures of me throughout junior high and high school are in this drab plaid skirt and an ill-advised pair of combat boots.

In college, I hit a really tacky phase. I actually owned a pair of pleather pants. My favorite accessories were bracelets made out of guitar strings. Obviously, I was very misguided. I blame my friends for not staging a fashion intervention.

If you look in my closet now, you’ll find a mix of trendy and classic pieces. Some will go out of style next month, and some will never go out of style. The one thing you won’t find pleather pants. That’s a mistake you only make once.

Emily Foley Hall, Fashion Director, Signature Magazine

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Happenings

photograph by STEVE COLEMAN

St. Thomas Aquinas Church’s Irish-Italian Festival is March 17 One of the Pine Belt’s most popular springtime events, St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church of Hattiesburg’s annual Irish-Italian Festival, is set for Saturday, March 17, behind the church. The 11th edition of the event will offer great food, music, fun and fellowship.

Along with the festival are the parade at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, March 17; a 40K bike fun race/ride at 3 p.m. Sunday, March 11; and a 5K run/walk race at 5:30 p.m. Friday, March 16.

This year’s schedule of Irish-Italian Festival events includes: n Celtic Mass: A Celtic mass will be held at 4 p.m. Saturday, March 17, at the church prior to the festival. n Irish Italian Festival: The festival will be from 5-10:30 p.m. Saturday, March 17, behind the church. Admission is free.

It will include live entertainment, food, art and gift auctions, free games for children, a hospitality café and a raffle for a chance to win a trip for two to Ireland or $2,000 cash, among other prizes. The popular “Shamrock Shuffle” starts at 7 p.m., a silent auction will be held from 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. featuring a wide variety of unique items; and the drawing for the trip to Ireland for two with Father Tommy Conway or $2,000 cash will be at 9:30 p.m.

The festival menu will feature Irish and Italian-style dishes, including spaghetti, authentic Irish stew, Irish sausage dogs,

Luck of the Irish

Irish and Italian breads, “Italian meatball on a cone,” spring rolls, Italian sausage and peppers, pizza, popcorn, cotton candy, funnel cakes, coffees and cakes, and the traditional St. Joseph Altar full of sweets. n Festival Parade: The Irish-Italian Festival Parade is 10:30 a.m. Saturday, March 17, with lineup beginning between 8:30- 9 a.m. at the University of Southern Mississippi’s Hillcrest Residence Hall.

The parade will travel down Service Drive and turn right onto West Fourth Street,

ending at Reed Green Coliseum across from the church. Refreshments will be available at the church.

Businesses and organizations that want to be in the parade should contact Mary Lou Sheffer at 817-372-4022, sheffer6@yahoo.com; or to get an entry registration form, download online at www.st thomas-usm.org. Entry in the parade is free.

The parade’s “royalty,” including the grand marshal, king and “colleen” (queen) will be announced and introduced at the church at 10 a.m. Thursday, March 15.

For more information: Irish-Italian Festival 40K Bike Fun Race/Ride: The festival’s Fun Race/Ride will be held at 3 p.m. March 11, at the Longleaf Trace. Call Russ Fransted, 601466-8622.

Irish-Italian Festival 5K Run/Walk: The run/walk will be held March 16, starting at the Southern Miss Gateway, Longleaf Trace at 5:30 p.m., with registration starting at 4 p.m. Shirts and prizes will be available. Information available at Bop’s Frozen Custard on Hardy St.; those who pre-register early can pick up their race packets March 15, at Bop’s from 5-6:30 p.m.

Information about the festival, parade run/walk and bike race, including a registration form for the parade, is available and will be updated online at www.stthomas-usm.org.

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Branson, Mo., is coming to Hattiesburg! In Grand-Ole Opry style, you can enjoy classic country, hilarious comedy, bluegrass, rockabilly, gospel and MORE! Performers will play and sing the great songs you know and love while incorporating the unique sounds of the fiddle, mandolin, banjo and upright slap bass.

memories, dreams, spirit, history, or culture. Southern Journeys presents the responses of 54 artists to the South through a selection of paintings, sculptures, drawings, prints, and mixed-media works. Artists in the exhibition range from the generation maturing in the 1930s to those who came of age in the 1990s and 2000s and include both academically trained and self-taught artists.

Among the artists are Leroy Allen, Benny Andrews, Radcliffe Bailey, Richmond Barthe’, Romare Bearden, Beverly Buchanan, Elizabeth Catlett, David Driskell, Clementine Hunter, Jacob Lawrence, Faith Ringgold, and Charles White.

Tickets $15/$18. www.hattiesburgsaenger.com

www.lrma.org

SATURDAY, MARCH 10

Branson on the Road 3pm @ Hattiesburg Saenger Theater

THROUGH MARCH 29

Charles Price exhibit @ Parker Gallery, William Carey Univ Gallery hours for Artwork by Charles Price: “A Search for Prolific Innovation” are 1 to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, but will be closed March 1216 for university holidays. At the Lucile Parker Gallery, William Carey University. www.wmcarey.edu

THURSDAY, MARCH 29

Tickets are available in two, three or four day passes. In 19 years, 150,000 visitors have been amazed by the grand floral displays and life-sized gardens at the Festival of Flowers in Mobile, Ala. Among the show's feature attractions: Life-sized Floral Couture featuring Fairy Tale characters made of 50,000 real flowers; over 45 vendors in marketplace; demonstrations and culinary discussions; The Famous Conductorcise with Maestro David Dworkin, conductor; and more. Tickets and Information 251.639.2050 or 1.877.777.0529 www.festivalofflowers.com

Future Stars 7:30pm @ USM’s Bennett Aud.

THURSDAY, MARCH 15

Farmer’s Market 4:30pm @ Main Street Books

THURSDAY, MARCH 22

Creative Economy Summit 8:30am - 1pm @ Train Depot

The Downtown Farmer’s Market is kicking things off a bit earlier this year with a program at Main Street Books. Come learn how to plant garden boxes and more.

Hosted by Historic Hattiesburg Downtown Assoc., Historic Train Depot. Malcolm White, executive director of Mississippi Arts Commission will be the luncheon speaker.

www.downtownhattiesburg.com

www.downtownhattiesburg.com

SATURDAY, MARCH 17

SATURDAY, MARCH 24

Irish Italian Festival

The Southern Miss Symphony presents Future Stars, Bennett Auditorium. Students in the Southern Miss School of Music annually compete in the William T. Gower Competition.

The winners appear as soloists with the orchestra in one of the most popular evenings of music. This year, winners will be selected from the woodwind, brass and percussion studios. Opening with the popular Lt. Kije Suite, this is a great evening showcasing the many talented students at Southern Miss. www.usm.edu/music/symphony

The Wizard of Oz

All day @ St. Thomas Catholic

3pm @ Hattiesburg Saenger Theater

Celtic Mass, 5K run, allday festival, parade, lots of food, and more. See story on Page 17 for more information about this year’s festival.

Presented by the American Family Theater. They've brought us Cinderella, Beauty and the Beast, Pinocchio and other classic fairy tales – this spring, American Family Theater returns to Saenger Theater! Tickets: $10/$12.

www.stthomas-usm.org

Tickets $10/$12. www.hattiesburgsaenger.com

MARCH 29 - APRIL 1 THROUGH MARCH 18

Southern Journeys

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SUNDAY, MARCH 25

Hattiesburg Concert Band

@ Lauren Rogers Museum in Laurel

3pm @ Hattiesburg Saenger Theater

Whether or not they call it home, African American artists of the past century have repeatedly explored their ties to the South. This region may appear in their art as a literal space located below the MasonDixon Line or as a “place” of mind,

Hattiesburg Concert Band presents a free concert at the Saenger Theater.

Bring the entire family. Sherman Hong is director.

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Festival of Flowers @ Providence Hospital, Mobile, Ala. One of a kind experience ! Thursday, Friday & Saturday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Sunday noon - 5 p.m. Single-day tickets: Gate, $15; Seniors, $14; Groups, $12.50. Parking is FREE. Multiple-day tickets are available for purchase by calling the Festival of Flowers office at (251) 639-2050 or 1-877-777-0529 or by emailing the office at info@festivalofflowers.com.

SATURDAY, MARCH 31

Hubfest 9am - 5pm Downtown Hattiesburg Presented by the Hattiesburg Zoo, the Area Development Partnership's 28th annual HUBFEST is a celebration of all things art, music, food and fun here in Greater Hattiesburg.

HUBFEST 2012 will take place in Downtown Hattiesburg stretching all the way across Main Street from Pine Street to Town Square Park. The ADP is gearing up for more than 250 booths of arts, crafts and businesses to set up for this one-day festival attracting tens of thousands of festivalgoers. There will be a special Juried Arts section featuring fine art such as paintings and pottery, as well as two food sections to please your palate. In addition to visiting booths, guests will be entertained by four stages of entertainment featuring a variety of local talent and regional headliners. There will be a Children’s Village and Children’s Art Show as well as many sanctioned events in and around downtown Hattiesburg the day of and leading up to the big event. There is no cost to attend, so regardless

if you come for the arts and crafts, delicious food or live entertainment, HUBFEST is an event you won’t want to miss in 2012. www.hubfestMS.com

THROUGH MARCH 31

Home Sweet Home Raffle Benefiting the United Way of Southeast Mississippi, will take place a month later this year. Tickets are currently on sale for this year’s home, which is valued at $250,000, and is located in Vintage Springs off Bonhomie Road in Forrest County.

Patrick Ward of Southeastern Construction is serving as builder for this year’s 3 bedroom, 2 bath structure.

HubFest will be the last chance to buy tickets on March 31. www.untiedwaysems.org

favorites win.

Materials are available online at www.festivalsouth.org for businesses and residents to solicit votes in this nomination process. Click on the Best of the Pine Belt 2012 logo and download logos, signs and more. FestivalSouth offers events for music lovers of every taste. Season tickets are on sale at www.festivalsouth.org, the Southern Miss Ticket Office, 601.266.5418 and www.southernmisstickets.com. www.festivalsouth.org

THROUGH APRIL 1

Eudora Welty Exhibit @ Lauren Rogers Museum in Laurel

THROUGH MARCH 31

Best of the Pine Belt voting @ www.festivalsouth.org A ‘best of ’ competition returns to coincide with the release of season tickets to the third annual FestivalSouth, June 9 - 23. The competition will determine the favorite people, places, and things that make the area great.

Following an overwhelming response last year, a guide to the Pine Belt was created by its residents. The complete list of ‘best’ will be featured in the festival program that encompasses the June edition of Signature Magazine. This year, the competition will take place in two phases. Nominations are currently being sought in categories. On April 1, the top vote getters in each category will be put into the finalist competition and another round of online voting will determine the winners. To vote, simply log on to www.festivalsouth.org and click on the Best of the Pine Belt 2012 logo. There, choose a category and write in as many nominations as you’d like. Don’t forget to check back April 1 for the final round to make sure your

LRM presents an exhibition of large color photographs documenting the recent season in Welty’s garden by noted landscape photographer and Mississippian Langdon Clay. www.lrma.org

THROUGH APRIL 1

Live at Five Concert Series Fridays in April, 5-9 p.m.

Live at Five Concert Series & Farmers Market at Town Square Park. www.liveatfivehburg.com. Every Friday night in April. Bring your family and friends and your blankets and lawn chairs and enjoy a free concert in Town Square Park. Every Thursday afternoon in Town Square Park, shop the products of local farmers at the weekly Farmers Market. www.liveatfivehburg.com

THURSDAY, APRIL 12

Student Art Exhibition 4:30pm - 5:30pm @ William Carey An opening reception for the William Carey University Art Student Exhibition will be held in the Lucile Parker Gallery on campus. The exhibit will hang through April 20. www.wmcarey.edu

ized by USM's Center for Oral History and Cultural Heritage and the School of Music's entertainment industry program. Free concert. www.downtownhattiesburg.com

SATURDAY, APRIL 14

Roots Reunion 7pm @ Hattiesburg Saenger Theater

SATURDAY, APRIL 14

Annual Birthday Bash @ Hattiesburg Zoo Join the Hattiesburg Zoo in celebrating its 62nd Birthday! The Birthday Bash will be a time when several new things will be unveiled at the Zoo. Among the Zoo’s coming attractions: a new Petting Zoo and Mining Sluice (sponsored by Parris Jewelers)! www.zoohattiesburg.com.

Following Spring Art Walk, The Roots Reunion live radio show returns to the Saenger Theater for its 14th edition. Organized by the University of Southern Mississippi's Center for Oral History and Cultural Heritage and the School of Music's entertainment industry program, Roots Reunion gives local musicians an opportunity to share the musical traditions of Mississippi with a live audience. FREE Admission. www.hattiesburgsaenger.org

www.zoohattiesburg.com

SATURDAY, APRIL 21

Downtown Crawfish Jam @ Historic Downtown Hattiesburg

SATURDAY, APRIL 14

Spring Art Walk @ Historic Downtown Hattiesburg Enjoy shopping and dining with downtown merchants as retail shops and galleries feature local artists and musicians inside and along the streets of Historic Downtown.

Many will feature artists' demonstrations.

The HHDA is featuring a new exhibit at the Depot, The Secret Life of Walter Anderson, written by Hester Bass and illustrated by E. B. Lewis. Both will be in attendance for a public reception and book signing 5:30 - 7 p.m. that evening. The exhibit will be up through April. Hours are Wed., Thur., Fri., Sat., 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Sun., 1 - 4 p.m. Oddfellows Gallery will feature the artwork of Dolly Kirke and her students. They are hosting a reception during Art Walk. Round out your evening downtown with Roots Reunion at the Saenger Theater, 7 - 9 p.m. This live radio show is in it's 14th year. Organ-

Presented by Hattiesburg Historic Neighborhood. Music, food, familyfriendly atmosphere. Admission $25, $10, Children under 12 admitted free www.downtownhattiesburg.com

APRIL 20-21

Peter Pan @ Hattiesburg Saenger Theater StageStruck Theater presents Peter Pan at the Saenger Theater … Fly with Peter Pan and Wendy to Neverland where children never grow up as StageStruck Performance Studio brings this children's classic to life.

StageStruck is a children's theater than has been bringing quality entertainment to Hattiesburg since 2006.

Showtimes are Friday at 7:30pm, and Saturday at 2pm and 7:30pm. Tickets: $12/$15 Tickets $12/$15. www.hattiesburgsaenger.com

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Happenings

Mallory Jennings

Briana Keys Elizabeth McCullen

Mary Ryan Karnes

Canille Azar

Distinguished.

Area teens vying for title of Distinguished Young Women

F

or the first time in the history of their programs, Distinguished Young Women of Forrest County and Distinguished Young Women of Lamar County (formerly Junior Miss) are combining their productions.

The program, Celebrate Mississippi, will be held at 7 p.m. Saturday, March 17, at the historic Saenger Theater in downtown Hattiesburg.

The Forrest County program, now in its 53rd year, has six high school juniors competing and Lamar County has nine contestants.

All contestants will be competing, judged and awarded within their county.

The DYW program awards college scholarships to juniors in high school based on areas of scholastics, interview, talent, self expression, and physical fitness. The Distinguished Young Woman winners will go on to compete in the state program in Meridian in July.

This year’s Lamar County contestants include: • Camile Azar is a junior at Presbyterian Christian School. Camile

Gabrielle Munn

s i g n a t u r e ma g a zi ne

Jelea Williams

Chloe Paige

Natalie Hall

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is involved in the First Baptist Church of Hattiesburg Youth Group, she is a member of the PCS cross country team and serves her classmates as junior class secretary. Camile is the daughter of George and Deborah Azar.

• Mallory Jennings is a junior at Oak Grove High School. Mallory is a member of the Oak Grove High School Band, is a member of the National Honor Society and was selected to participate in the 2012 State Lion’s Band. Mallory is the daughter of Jeffrey and Sonya Jennings.

• Mary Ryan Karnes is a junior at Oak Grove High School. Mary Ryan is a member of the Oak Grove High School Forensics Team, is involved with the First Presbyterian Church youth group and is ranked eighth nationally in impromptu speaking. Mary Ryan is the daughter of John and Leighanne Karnes.

• Briana Keys is a junior at Oak Grove High School. She is involved in her church’s youth ministry, serves in the Oak Grove Band as a flag girl and received an athletic award for cheerleading in the 10th grade. Briana is the daughter of Katrina Martin and Ray Keys.

Hannah Stevens

Courtney Anna Gagliano

Chloe Sanders

Dana Minor Emily Rhodes

• Elizabeth McCullen is a junior at Oak Grove High School. She is a member of the Mu Alpha Theta math honor society, serves on the Lamar County Youth Council and was chosen as a Hugh O’Brien Youth Ambassador. She is the daughter of David and Ann McCullen.

• Dana Minor is a junior at Oak Grove High School. Dana is involved in the Mt. Olive Baptist Church Youth Ministry, is a member of the Oak Grove High School Beta Club and is active in dance at The Dance Place. Dana is the daughter of Deidra Minor.

• Emily Rhodes is a junior at Oak Grove High School. She is a member of the Oak Grove High School Golden Spirits Dance Team, she is involved in First Priority and has been recognized for perfect attendance. Emily is the daughter of Dennis and Kristie Rhodes.

• Chloe Sanders is a junior at Oak Grove High School. She serves her classmates as Secretary of her Junior Class, she is a member of the National Honor Society and was nominated to participate in the Lott Leadership Institute. Chloe is the daughter of Dylan and Alicia Sanders.

• Katie Sims is a junior at Purvis High School. Katie has been active in the Purvis Showchoir for the past two years, she is a First Baptist Church of Purvis Youth Praise Team Leader and she received a Superior ranking in the National Federation of Music Clubs. Katie is the daughter of Allen and Karen Sims.

Forrest County participants include: • Courtney Gagliano is the daughter of Lisa and Charles Gagliano.

She attends Presbyterian Christian High School and is active in the USM orchestra, FGH Spirit Girls, and FBLA. For her talent Courtney will perform an instrumental piece entitled, “Csardas” by Vittoria Monti. Courtney plans on pursuing a career in dentistry after she attends the University of Southern Mississippi.

• Natalie Hall is a junior at Presbyterian Christian High School and is the daughter of Stacey and Jeff Hall. She is involved in Mu Alpha Theta, varsity cheerleading and Edwards Street Girls Club as well as FGH Spirit Girls. For her talent, Natalie will perform a piano piece entitled, “Whitewater Chop Sticks” by Calvin Jones.

She plans to attend Mississippi State University or the University of Southern Mississippi to pursue a career in pediatric dentistry.

Katie Sims

• Gabbie Munn is a junior at Presbyterian Christian High School and is the daughter of Jeanie and Lloyd Munn. Gabbie is active in Mu Alpha Theta, forensics and varsity cheerleading at PCS, and she was a scholar at Mississippi Governor’s School in 2011. For her onstage performance, Harley will perform a piano piece entitled, “Phrygian Toccata” composed by Mary Verne. She plans to attend the University of Southern Mississippi or Alabama with plans to become a psychiatrist.

• Chloe Paige is the daughter of Tamika Paige. She is a junior at Hattiesburg High School where she is on the student council and in the national beta club. Chloe is also on the Mayor’s Youth Leadership Council and was the Hugh O’Brien Youth Leadership recipient. She plans to pursue a degree in nursing so she can become a travel nurse. For her talent Chloe will present a vocal selection entitled “Faultless” by Tarralyn Ramsey.

• Hannah Stevens is the daughter of Susan and Benjamin Stevens, and she attends Sacred Heart High School where she is active on the volleyball and track teams, math team and National Honor Society. For her talent she will perform a vocal selection entitled, “Some Things are Meant to Be.” She plans on pursuing a career in accounting after attending Elon University or Montana State University.

• Jelea Williams is the daughter of the late Donna Williams and granddaughter of Janice Williams and is a junior at Hattiesburg High School. She is active in the Hattiesburg Alumnae Chapter of Delteen, FGH Spirit Girls and is a member of the Mayor’s Youth Council. Her goal is to attend the Vanderbilt University where she will pursue a career in cardiology. Jelea will perform a dance to “Step into the Bad Side.”

Distinguished Young Women, formerly America’s Junior Miss Scholarship Program, is sponsored by the City of Mobile, Mobile County, Eastern Shore Toyota, Encore Rehabilitation, SPANX, Mobile Gas–A Sempra Company, Regions Bank, Alabama Power Foundation, and Master Boat Builders.

The 55th National Finals will take place in Mobile, AL on June 28, 29 and 30, 2012. For more information about Distinguished Young Women, visit www.DistinguishedYW.org.

Annual contest is March 17 at the Saenger Theater in downtown Hattiesburg m ar c h 2012

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Mississippi Queen Former rock-n-roll bad girl from L.A. finds humble home in the Pine Belt

I

life,” she said. “And a lot of those opportunities initially came my way because of my family. But then it was all on me to prove I belonged there.”

Music was a big part of Lenz’ life from an early age. Both of her parents played the acoustic guitar and listening to them sing Dylanesque folk songs as a child was a regular occurance.

“Even at seven years of age, I knew I wanted to be a rock star,” she said. “That was my goal. My mission in life.”

Lenz landed her first big job writing a commercial for Chevy “and from there it was off to the races.”

She joined her first band when she was just 15 and had to drag her mother to all the shows because she was too young to get into the clubs by herself.

“I hadn’t even kissed a boy yet and we were playing in places like The Roxy and The Whisky A Go Go.” Within a few years, she was on tour singing backup with Adam Ant and from that came the birth of Swamp Boogie Queen, a band music critics would later describe as “diesel-fueled, chicken-fried, finger-lickin’ good Southern rock music.”

With a record deal under their belt and its debut album in production, the band hit the road in perfect rock star fashion.

“Long drives, late nights. You name it, we did it.” she said.

“We lived the rockand-roll lifestyle to the fullest.”

But as is often the case in the cuthroat music industry, that lifestyle ultimately caught up to her.

“We were on tour with Kenny Wayne Shepherd when everything fell apart,” she said. “The band broke up. We left the And today tour and I fell into a very Cherry on Toas a co -owner of p Party Ser vices dark place. I was very angry. Very sad. And I

n her heyday as lead singer of one of the hottest new rock-and-roll bands to take the L.A. music scene, Hattiesburg’s Abigail Lenz showed off her signature bare belly to tens of thousands of diehard fans.

People everywhere were mesmerized not only by her swiveling hips, but her insane vocals, which critics often noted were reminiscent of Janis Joplin in her prime.

Her band, Swamp Boogie Queen, had a record deal with a major label.

They played festivals everywhere.

They toured with Lynyrd Skynyrd.

Heck, they were even featured on an episode of Melrose Place.

By all practical purposes, she was an honest-to-goodness rock-and-roll superstar. And that’s exactly the way she liked it.

Born in New York City and raised in Los Angeles, Lenz has an artistic pedigree that would make any Hollywood socialite jealous.

Her father was an actor. Her mother an independent filmmaker. Her maternal grandfather was none other than Academy Award nominated actor Claude Rains – best known for his portrayal as The Invisible Man and his role opposite Humphrey Bogart in Casablanca.

“I have had incredible opportunities throughout my

days as lead Abigail Lenz in her ogie Queen Bo p am Sw of singer

thought my life was over. So I stopped taking care of myself.”

Without music to sustain her, Lenz succumbed to her demons and drifted further and further into a pattern of self-destructive behavior.

“I looked up three years later and realized I had lost everything.”

Five years ago, a therapist friend steered her to the Professional Enhancement Program at Pine Grove here in Hattiesburg and the rest, as they say is history.

“It saved my life,” she said. “It was a divine intervention. They helped me find my identity and I have never looked back.”

These days, not only is Lenz continuing on her solid path of clean living, but she also has a cute little four-yearold insurance policy named Francis, her daughter – who happens to still think her mother is a rock star, albeit of a little different variety.

“She’s the greatest thing that has ever happened to me,” she said.

Lenz and her business partner, Jane Claire Tyner, have recently launched her new company: Cherry on Top Party Services, a full-service event and party planning business.

She also performs regularly with Lance Blackwell at a variety of downtown Hattiesburg restaurants and clubs.

“Music is still a big part of my life,” she said. “I just have different priorities now.”

Happenings

Sandi Patty headlining Festival South

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andi Patty and the Best of the Pine Belt are set to return, along with music ranging from the Beatles to Mozart, as FestivalSouth comes alive in Hattiesburg for a third season. Patty, the most-awarded female vocalist in contemporary Christian music history, will return to Hattiesburg to perform some of her greatest hits, patriotic and Broadway classics.

Individual tickets to all FestivalSouth events go on sale April 15, but music lovers can avoid the risk of tickets being sold out by purchasing season tickets, known as the FestivalCircle, which are on sale now.

Tickets sold out in December of 2008 when Patty last performed in Hattiesburg with the University of Southern Mississippi Symphony Orchestra at Temple Baptist Church during the orchestra’s annual holiday concert.

“A FestivalCircle pass will allow patrons the best seats to all ticketed events, including the finale with Sandi,” Mike Lopinto, event producer, said. “I would encourage people to act quickly, as on her last visit tickets sold out quickly.”

Known simply as The Voice, Patty is one of the most highly-acclaimed performers of our time, with five Grammy awards, four Continued, Next Page

FestivalSouth continued from previous page Billboard Music awards, three platinum records, five gold records and 11 million units sold.

With 39 Dove Awards, she was inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame in 2004 and was named an Indiana Living Legend in 2007. She has released more than 30 albums, including The Edge of the Divine in 2010.

Patty was introduced to the world with her rendition of The Star Spangled Banner during the rededication of the Statue of Liberty in 1986. Virtually overnight she became one of the country’s best-loved performers. Her version of the national anthem has become synonymous with patriotic celebration, including performances at “A Capitol Fourth” with the National Symphony, the Pan American Games, the Indianapolis 500, the Dedication of the Francis Scott Key Memorial in Washington, D.C., the dedication of Camp David Chapel and ABC’s Fourth of July special.

While her 30-year career is heavily rooted in the gospel music industry, Patty has had the opportunity in more recent years to extend her career outside the genre. She has performed with symphonies across the country, including the New York Pops, Boston Pops, Cincinnati Pops, Dallas Symphony, Baltimore Symphony, Houston Symphony and Oklahoma City Philharmonic. Her first Pops album, “An American Songbook,” was recorded with the London Symphony Orchestra.

“I am grateful for the many opportunities God has given in my life and for how He has allowed me to spread my wings,” Patty said. “Singing is my way to tell my story of hope, life and love.”

FestivalSouth returns for its third season June 9-23 with the sounds of music all day, every day in Mississippi’s only multi-genre arts festival.

“From the beginning, I wanted this festival to be representative of the entire world of the arts,” Symphony Director Jay Dean said. “This year we have really taken a big step forward featuring internationally-known performers as part of more than 70 performances during the two weeks.”

Opening night features Classical Mystery Tour, a spectacular Beatles tribute. The middle weekend will include performances of Mozart’s Don Giovanni and the FestivalFinale see the return of five-time Grammy Award-winner Patty to the Hub city.

Presented by the Hattiesburg Concert Association, FestivalSouth offers events for music lovers of every taste. Offerings include art, music, dance, food and fun for local residents, families and visitors.

A combination of free and ticketed musical events, FestivalSouth brings morning musicales to local coffee shops, bookstores and The Hattiesburg Public Library; musical luncheons to locally-owned eateries; afternoon recitals to worship facilities; and evening concerts and late-night events to signature downtown venues.

Children are not forgotten in the Festival schedule. Ivey Swan created a character named Artie, a multi-talented paintbrush who paints, of course, but also plays instruments, dances and loves anything to do with the arts. Swan and Artie return to FestivalSouth 2012 to present handson experiences in all areas of the arts.

Headline events have become the spotlight of the three weekends of FestivalSouth. This year, guest artists bookend the festival with high-octane performances.

Opening Night Classical Mystery Tour: A Tribute to the Beatles with the FestivalSouth Orchestra, presented by BancorpSouth and Brownstones.

Imagine The Beatles playing in concert with a symphony orchestra. The four musicians in Classical Mystery Tour look and sound just like The Beatles, presenting some 30 Beatles tunes sung, played and performed exactly as they were written. Hear "Penny Lane" with a live trumpet section; experience the beauty of "Yesterday" with an acoustic guitar and string quartet; enjoy the rock/classical blend on the hard-edged "I Am the Walrus." From early Beatles music on through the solo years, Classical Mystery Tour is the best of The Beatles like you've never heard them: Totally live.

FestivalOpera Mozart’s Don Giovanni. Experience the thrilling music and drama of Wolfgang Ama-deus Mozart’s Don Giovanni. The opera tells the tale of Don Giovanni, the seducer of 2,000 women, who murders the father of one of his conquests in a street fight.

In time, he finds himself in a churchyard in front of the statue of his victim, which he jokingly invites to dinner. To his surprise, the statue accepts the invitation.

Don’t miss this great opportunity to see a full-staged production of this masterpiece.

Best of Pine Belt 2012 Coinciding with the release of season tickets, a ‘best of’ competition, Best of the Pine Belt 2012, returns to determine the favorite people, places and things that make the area great.

Following an overwhelming response last year, its residents created a guide to the Pine Belt.

The complete list of ‘best’ will be featured in the festival program that encompasses the June edition of Signature Magazine.

This year, the competition will take place in two phases. Right now, nominations are being sought in categories including everything from “Best Day Trip” to “Best Mexican Food” and “Best Shoes” to “Best Volunteer.” On April 1, the top vote getters in each category will be put into the finalist competition and another round of online voting will determine the winners.

To vote, simply log on to www.festivalsouth.org and click on the Best of the Pine Belt 2012 logo. There, choose a category and write in as many nominations as you like. Don’t forget to check back April 1 for the finals round to make sure your favorites win.

For a complete list of free and ticketed events or for more information, visit www.festivalsouth.org.

Season tickets are also available at the Southern Miss Ticket Office, 601.266.5418 or www.southernmisstickets-.com. FestivalCircle passes may be purchased at 800-844-8425, 601-266-5418 or www.festival-south.org.

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mPRESENTED BY AMERICAN FAMILY TUEATER rJ SUOWTIME :: 3PM MA t\ TICKETS :: s10/s12

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Neighbors

Charles Phillips crowned King Elk, Peggy Pittman his Queen

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he Krewe of Elks celebrated their 46th anniversary with the announcement of King and Queen Elk XLVI during their annual Carnival Ball at the Elks Lodge on Feb. 11.

The identities of the new King and Queen were revealed as King Elk XLVI, Charles Phillips and Queen Elk XLVI, Peggy Pittman.

The entrance to Elks Lake Road glistened with white lights as snowflakes fell gently from the sky.

Every step left a fresh, crisp footprint in the snow.

It was the magical kingdom of “Winter Fascination.”

Ushers for the evening were Bob Johnson, Phil Sudduth, Kent Mohawk, Tommy Baylis, Royce Warner and Scott Stromeyer.

The ballroom’s stage featured a great portico. Silver and gold thrones sat in the middle of the stage.

Captain of the Krewe Butch LeBlanc, welcomed members and guests to the ball and introduced Allen Pollitz as the Master of Ceremonies.

At the back of the ballroom, the entrance to a winter forest could be seen. The branches of the trees bowed with the heavy load they were carrying.

As the trumpets blared the past royalty made their grand entrance. They were, Queen Elk IV, Ruth Centanni; Queen Elk V, Mary Beth Bounds; King & Queen Elk VI, Sidney Malone and Dottie Burt; Queen Elk VII, Jane Ezelle; King & Queen Elk VIII, B. J. “Buck” Thompson and Rosa Lee Mordica; King Elk X, Chester Moulder; King & Queen Elk XI, Charles Finnegan and Tiny Hicks; King Elk XII, Duwayne Ezelle; King & Queen Elk XIII, Jimmy Moudy and Margaret Langford; Queen Elk XIV, Lottie Vance; Queen Elk XV, Frances Bond; King & Queen Elk XVI, Ray Bonones and Cathy Mohawk; King & Queen Elk XVII C. A. “Andy” Moore and Lorita Finnegan; King & Queen Elk XVIII, C. W. “Dub” Hicks and Madolyn Cross;

Queen Elk XIX, Patsy Hawkins; Queen Elk XX, Janet Pascale; Queen Elk XXI, Shelby Dove; King & Queen Elk XXII, Woody Lyon and Pam Nobles; King & Queen Elk XXIII, Bobby Cubley and Betty Love; King Elk XXIV, Joe Winstead; Queen Elk XXV, Peggy Moore; King & Queen Elk XXVI, Tony Pascale and Martha Johnson; King & Queen Elk XXVII, Johnny Fairchild and Charlotte Shoemake; King & Queen Elk XXVIII, Robert Shoemake and Joan Slay; King & Queen Elk XXIX, David Lyon and Nadine Sumrall; Queen Elk XXX, Joann Fairchild; King & Queen Elk XXXI, Bill Bond and Cathy James; King & Queen Elk XXXII, Roy Roberts and Judy Carney; King & Queen Elk XXXIII, Mike Sanders and Kay Smith; Queen Elk XXXIV, Kim Jackson; King & Queen Elk XXXV, John Thomsen and Dianne Warren; King & Queen Elk XXXVI, Tommy Pittman and Dawn Gillis; King & Queen Elk XXXVII, George Pollitz and Sarah Campbell; King & Queen Elk XXXVIII, Dan McGee and Sue Lyon; King & Queen Elk XXXIX, Chris Moore and Ann-Michelle Sanford; King & Queen Elk XL, Denny Hawkins and Mary Thomsen; King & Queen Elk XLI, George Huffman and Debbie Pollitz; King & Queen Elk XLII, Mike Nobles and Amy Stromeyer; King Elk XLIII, Mike James and King & Queen Elk XLIV, Steve Oshrin and Richie Malone.

Reigning sovereigns of all Elkdom were introduced as King and Queen Elk XLV, Kevin Malone and Sue Walters.

The Script Bearer for the evening was Emma Moore, daughter of King Elk XXXIX Chris Moore and Consort Jennifer and granddaughter of King Elk XVII Andy Moore and Queen Elk XXV Peggy Moore.

At the trumpets’ blare, all subjects were comContinued, Next Page

Krewe of Elks, Krewe of Zeus crown their 2012 king and queen m ar c h 2012

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Krewe of Elks continued from previous page manded to rise for the entrance of King Elk XLVI, Charles Phillips, who entered wearing original attire of gold lame handcrafted by Stevens E. Moore. His tunic featured a panel of gold lame enhanced with appliqués of gold and silver paillettes and golden braid. Gold knickers were completed with gilded slippers. He wore a rhinestone crown set in silver.

The King’s mantle of French gold and white brocade with aurora borealis stones was banded in heavy gold and sequins. In the center was a crown of silver and gold holographic sequins studded in aurora borealis stones and beading.

Under the crown was ornate scrollwork and at the bottom were the initials of the Krewe.

The King’s pages were Perry Wayne Phillips, Jr. and Marshall Collins Phillips, sons of Mr. and Mrs. Perry Wayne Phillips Sr. and grandsons of Phillips and consort, Nellie.

His Royal Majesty decreed that the following shall be known as 2012 Royal Court of Elkdom: Duke Steve Lyon and Duchess Judy McGee; Duke Kevin Rogers and Duchess Joanne Oshrin; Duke Corley Morse and Duchess Marika Warner; Duke Marlin Smith and Duchess Denise Brown; Duke Tim Waters and Duchess Amy Rogers and Duke Lionel Campbell and Duchess Sylvia Davis.

Each year two Krewe members are chosen as honored members of the Court and serve as special attendants to the King and Queen.

They were Lord Elk XLVI, Mike Warren and Lady Elk XLVI, Diane James.

The Royal Court assembled, the trumpets sounded and all Elkdom rose as Queen Elk XLVI, Peggy Pittman, was introduced. King Elk XLVI escorted her to the Throne.

Her Majesty wore a Stevens E. Moore original full-length gown of gold lame with a rounded neckline edged in gold and silver paillettes with crystal beads. Beading and appliqués adorned the sleeves, back and hem of the gown in an aurora borealis rhinestone motif. Her trumpet skirt featured a circular flounce and brief train. Rhinestones in gold formed her drop earrings and ecklace. She chose white opera gloves and gold shoes.

Her mantle featured the same design as her King. Her collar was of silver lame in a spider web design. She wore a crown of aurora borealis rhinestones. She carried her Royal Scepter.

The Queen’s pages were Kara Elizabeth Phillips, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Craig Phillips and Lucy Moore, daughter of King Elk XXXIX Chris Moore and consort, Jenifer and granddaughter of King Elk XVII, Andy Moore and Queen Elks XXV, Peggy Moore.

The Master of Ceremonies called for the Royal Entertainment to begin. Featured singers were David Lyon, Silvia Sanders and Jennifer Moore. Lyon then provided music for waltzers King Elk XXXVII George Pollitz, Queen Elk XLI Debbie Pollitz, King Elk XLI George Huffman and Consort Zoula.

Then the Royal Presentations began. First presented was the

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Captain of the Krewe, Butch LeBlanc. The Exalted Ruler of BPOE #599, Hugh McGowen, then followed.

The King commanded the Grand March to begin followed by the King’s Dance. The King then commanded the First Call-Out to begin, followed by the second Call-Out. Robert Cook provided music for the Coronation and Tableau.

The King commanded that the Royal Presentations begin. His wife, Nellie, and children, sons, Forrest Charles Phillips, Jr. and wife, Pam, and children, Forrest III and Henry Clayborne; William Scott Phillips, and wife, Dana, and children, Scott, Jr., Marion Margaret and Madison Elizabeth; and Perry Wayne Philips and wife, Alana, and children, Jessika Tate, Perry Wayne, Jr. and Marshall Collins; and daughter, Lee Lanelle Lawrence, and husband, David, and sons, Hunter Lovell and Harrison David, were introduced with other family members.

The Queen’s Family then came forward. Her husband King Elk XXXVI, Tommy Pittman, was presented followed by her sons, Gary Daughtrey and wife, Anita, and daughter, Kathy and husband, Sammy Corello; Jimmy Daughtrey, and guest, Linda; Mike Daughtrey, and wife, Lynn, and daughter, Melanie; and Paul Daughtrey were presented along with other family members.

The King then ordered the Royal Ball to begin. Lil’ Bayou Band provided the music. At midnight, King and Queen Elk XLIV bid farewell and joined in the evening’s revelry.

Committees Stage the Show Elks Carnival Ball Chairman was Debbie Pollitz. Other Carnival Ball Chairmen and their committees were: Royal Entertainment: David and Carolyn Lyon; Scenery Construction: George Huffman, Tommy Baylis and John Thomsen; Lighting: Mike Warren; Scenery Design: Woody Lyon and Marika Warner; Scenery Decoration: Woody Lyon, Marika Warner, Nadine Sumrall, Betty Lyon, Patsy Hawkins, Peggy Moore, Zoula Huffman; Programs: Patsy Hawkins; Tickets: Patsy and Denny Hawkins, Robin and Tight Morse, and Carolyn and David Lyon; Social: Judy McGee; Social Decorations: Nadine and Jim Sumrall, Betty and Woody Lyon: Attitude Adjustment: Butch LeBlanc; Publicity: Pam Nobles; Stage Construction: Dan McGee, Kevin Malone, Butch LeBlanc, Andy Moore, Chris Moore, Mike Nobles, John Thomsen, George Huffman, Tommy Baylis, Jim Sumrall and Hugh McGowen; Telephone: Robin Morse, Jerre Boker and Debbie Pollitz; Script: Steve Lyon; King & Queen Assistants: Kevin Malone and Bonnie McNair, Sue and Gene Walters and Peggy Moore; Foyer: Martha Johnson; Ushers: Bob Johnson; Court Costumes: Josette’s and Peggy Moore; King and Queen Costume Design: S. E. Moore.

Officers of the Krewe are Captain, Butch LeBlanc; Lieutenant, Steve Oshrin; Secretary, Joanne Oshrin and Treasurer, Amy Stromeyer. A special thanks to Matt Brown, Krewe Captain, who has been called to military duty overseas. He laid much of the groundwork for the Carnival Season this year and the Krewe of Elks is indebted to him.

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he Mother Goose nursery rhymes were recreated Feb. 17 at the Saenger Theatre as Harry McArthur, III, and Mary Lucas Halliwell, daughter of Dr. and Mrs. David Harry Halliwell, III, reigned over the 72nd annual pageant and coronation of the Mystic Krewe of Zeus.

Narrator Corey Evan Tator, welcomed guests and introduced past Kings and Queens, including a presentation of the immediate past monarchs, Zeus LXXI, Warren Alton Hood, Jr., and Queen, Annie Laurie Roberts.

The Royal Captains opened the pageant as the legendary guardians of the village of Mother Goose. The Captains were Dr. George James Azar,III, Jeff Corbett Bowman, Dr. Arthur Dean Cromartie, Burnice Wesley Curry, III, the Hon. Burnice Wesley Curry, IV, Dr. Craig Sidney Howard, Dr. Joseph Troy McIntire, Dr. John Clayton Nelson, Douglas Wesley Rouse, III, Scott Joseph Schwartz, and Dr. Gardner Lee Fletcher, chairman.

As the curtains parted, a storybook village unfolds. Children, portraying various characters from the pages of Mother Goose, scampered to the music of the Coronation Orchestra, under the direction of Tammy Strahan Mansfield. The children were led by Three Blind Mice â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Megan Leigh Poole, Brett Anthony Barnes and Valerie Rose Remich.

Favorite childhood characters filled the village. Little Boy Blue was Elias Walker Graham, son of Mr. and Mrs. Mark Michael Graham; wooly sheep were Anna Weston Burks, Caroline Annabella King, and Lucy Gayle Mellen, daughters of Mr. and Mrs. John Curtis Burks, Dr. and Mrs. Thomas Edward King, III, and Dr. Philip Batson Mellen and Dr. Leigh Anne Mellen. The cows in the corn were Connor Anderson Cooley, Zachary David Metz, and Forrest Nicholson Vance, sons of Dr. and Mrs. Christopher Lynn Cooley, Mr. and Mrs. Todd Glennon Metz, and Mr. and Mrs. Lewis Nicholson Vance, Jr. Jack and Jill were Benjamin Thomas Barbieri and Rachael Elizabeth Barbieri, children of Dr. and Mrs. Rocco Anthony Barbieri. The Flying Men were Emmett Walker Fairey, son of Greg Fairey and Vonda Fairey, Thomas Harrison St. John, son of Mr. and Mrs. Robert White St. John, and Clay Barton Thames, Jr., son of Dr. Clay B. Thames, Sr. and Dr. Cynthia Lee Thames.

Mary was Sydney Leigh Donald, daughter of Dr. and Mrs. William Duncan Donald, III. The Lamb, Mary Carter Callaway, is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Carter Callaway.

The children were Emily Elizabeth and Mary Magruder Nichols, daughters of Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin Wright Nichols, III, and Abigayle Roberts Talbot, daughter of Dr. Paul John Talbot and Julie Roberts Talbot. The teacher was Hannah Grace Talbot, daughter of Dr. Talbot and Ms.Talbot.

Little Miss Muffet was Hayden McKenzie Shifalo, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Strom Shifalo and the Spider, Preston Stevens Sackler, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Jaron Sackler.

The five happy Piggies were Catherine Scott Childress, daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Curtis Scott Childress, Anna McCall Nicholson, daughter Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Carl Nicholson, Julia Madeline Powell, daughter of Zeke Welborn Powell, III and Jessica Boggan Powell, Addison Love Tatum, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Robert O'Neal Tatum, Jr., and Sarah Dabney Whitehead, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Graham Delane Whitehead.

Jay Lucas Taylor, Robert Caden Cochran, Christian Lee McQueen, Jr., Boma Cave Pennebaker, III, and Ethan Walker Tator, were Jack and the Candlesticks. They are sons of Mr. and Mrs. Richard Clinton Taylor, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Anthony Cochran, Jr., Mr. and Mrs. Christian Lee McQueen, Sr., Mr. and Mrs. Boma Cave Pennebaker, Jr., and Mr. and Mrs. Corey Evan Tator, respectively.

The Itsy Bitsy Spiders were Sterling Elizabeth Dews, daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Robert Carrington Dews, Jr., Hallie Carrington Jussely, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Herring Jussely, Molly Preston Phillips, daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Joseph Preston Phillips, and Merry McKean Strickland, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Warren A. Strickland, Jr. As the house lights dimmed, the Heralds trumpeted the impending arrival of His Majesty the King, Zeus LXXII. The Heralds were John Milner Price, Jr., son of Mr. and Mrs. John Milner Price, and Noel Greyson Black, son of Mr. and Mrs. Bradley Russell Black.

Bearing the Royal Standards of the Mystic Krewe of Zeus were Jackson Lawrence Polk, son of Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Kyle Polk, and Michael Eugene McElroy, III, son of Mr. and Mrs. Michael Eugene

Mystic Krewe of Zeus

celebrates fairy tale evening

Continued, Page 35

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Meet the Maids & Dukes of the Krewe of Zeus: Garner Bell

Christian Bushardt II

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n Feb. 17, at the Saenger Theatre, the Mystic Krewe of Zeus gathered to crown King Zeus LXXII and his Queen, and present the Maids and Dukes of their Royal Court.

Jillian Strange

Deanna Shuck

Caroline Ratliff

MAIDS IN THE COURT n Kelsey Aurice Chancellor, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Murphey Chancellor, Jr., is an Exercise Science major at the University of Mississippi. At Ole Miss, she serves as Chaplain of Delta Delta Delta, is a member of the Order of Omega and a Crusade Student Leader. n Taylor Christine Clark, a nursing student at Texas Tech University, is the daughter of James Johnson Clark and Dawn Lloyd Clark. She is a member of Kappa Alpha Theta Sorority. She was selected Miss Tyler Teen USA, Miss Lubbock County USA, and a Texas Rose Festival Lady-in-Waiting. Her grandfather, Dr. Richard H. Clark, Jr., was Zeus XXXVIII, and her aunt, Lara Clark Cooper, was Queen to Zeus L, Garland Williams Sullivan. n Grace Helen Cornett, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Milton Cornett, is a Risk Management and Insurance major at Mississippi State University. A Dean's List Scholar, she is a member of Phi Mu Sorority, Gamma Iota Sigma and the National Society of Collegiate Scholars. n Leah Marie Ferrill, a Theatre major and Psychology minor at the University of Alabama, is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Edward Ferrill, Jr. She is a member of Chi Omega Sorority and serves as secretary of Alpha Psi Omega. She is a member of the Hattiesburg Debutante Association. n Perry Rebecca Fowler, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Grady Doss Fowler, is a Communication Sciences and Disorders major at the University of Mississippi. She is a member of Delta Delta Delta and a Dean's List Scholar. Her great-grandfather, Thaddeus Lewis Fowler was Zeus XI, her grandfather, Thaddeus Lewis Fowler, Jr., was Zeus XXXII, and her aunt, Sally Ross Fowler Carson, was Queen to Zeus XLII, Dr. J. P. Culpepper, III. n Mary Lee Holmes, a Marketing and Professional Sales major at the University of Alabama, is the daughter of Paul Hardin Holmes and Marcia Bailey Holmes.

She is a member of Alpha Phi Sorority and the Na-

Kelsey Chancellor

tional Society of Collegiate Scholars. n Samantha Mills Leslie, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Andrew Leslie, III, is an Exercise Science major and Psychology minor at the University of Southern Mississippi. At USM, she is a Leadership Scholar, a member of the Honors College and serves as Intramural Chairman of Kappa Delta Sorority. n Anna Claire Morris, a Finance major at Mississippi State University, is the daughter of Monte Stuart Morris and LouAnn James Morris. At MSU, she is a member of Kappa Delta Sorority. n Hallie Scott Paul, daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Joseph Scott Paul, is a student at the University of Alabama.

She is a University Fellow, a Blackburn Institute for Public Policy Fellow, president of the Mortar Board Senior Honor Society and a member of Chi Omega Sorority. n Caroline Grace Ratliff, an Art major at Pearl River Community College, is the daughter of Michael Vincent Ratliff and Rebecca Roseberry Ratliff. A member of University Baptist Church, she is an assistant teacher at Trinity Episcopal Play School. n DeAnna Elizabeth Shuck, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ora Lee Sims, II and the late Steven Dean Shuck, is an English Literature major at William Carey University. She is a member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and the American Red Cross. n Jillian Jeanne' Strange, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Randall Gregory Strange, is currently employed at One80 Fitness. She will attend Mississippi State University in the fall to complete a degree in Business with an emphasis in Economics and with a minor in French. She is a member of Kappa Delta Sorority.

DUKES IN THE COURT n Francis Garner Ross Bell, a Biological Science major at Mississippi College, is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Francis Ross Bell. He serves as treasurer of the Civitan Organization, as a Mississippi College Senator, as a Orientation Leader and is a President's List Scholar. n Christian Antine Bushardt, II, son of Dr. Lisa Clark Bushardt and Dr. Stephen Christian Bushardt, is a Business major at the University of Texas at Tyler.

His grandfather, Dr. Richard Harry Clark, Jr., was Zeus XXXVIII. His great-aunts, Ann Clark Gray, was Queen Continued, Next Page

Hallie Paul

Anna Claire Morris

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Samantha Leslie

Taylor Clark

Conner Jones

Mary Lee Holmes

Thomas Griffin III

Grace Cornett

Clint Cotten

Stuart Dodds

Weller Emmons

Leah Ferrill

Perry Fowler

Krewe of Zeus continued from Page 35 McElroy, Jr. The new Monarch, Harry McArthur, III, King Zeus LXXII, stepped onto the balcony of the Royal Boxes. Assisting were The King's Grand Marshal, Forrest David Roberts, and the King's Captains, Dr. Timothy L. Cole and Dr. Gregory N. Vickers.

Accompanying the King were the Royal Pages, William Pearce Brett, son of Mr. and Mrs. William Gregory Brett, and Thomas Lowery McArthur, son of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Alan McArthur.

The Prince, Jack Randall Schwartz, son of Mr. and Mrs. Scott Joseph Schwartz, and the Princess, Hayden Elizabeth Tyner, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Cooper Burns Tyner.

King Zeus LXXII made the call for his Queen. Her Majesty the Queen, also of royal lineage, Mary Lucas Halliwell, was escorted by her father, Zeus LVIII, Dr. David Harry Halliwell, III. Her Majesty's Grand Marshal was Charles Alan McArthur. The Royal Captains were William Gregory Brett and Benjamin Cole Carmichael. Royal Pages were Mary Moore Widemire, daughter of King Zeus LXXII and Mrs. McArthur, and the late William Reese Widemire, and Olivia Danielle Ware, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. David Judean Ware, II. The Royal Jewel Bearers were Sarah Crosby McKay and Mary Elizabeth McIntire, daughters of Mr. and Mrs. Kennard Allen McKay, and Dr. and Mrs. Joseph Troy McIntire, Jr. Queen's Prince was Oden Tyler Dillenkoffer, son of Mr. and Mrs. Matthew Dillenkoffer, and Princess was Mary Cameron McArthur, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph L. McArthur. The Queen's Ladies-in-Waiting were Olivia Leigh Cole, daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Timothy Leigh Cole, and English Pate Strange, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Randall Gregory Strange.

Her Majesty's Pretty Maidens were Margaret Lacey Campbell, daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Joe Hand Campbell, Jr., Josey Lislynn Courtney, granddaughter of Karlynn H. Courtney, Kerry Camille Helveston, daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Wendell Raymond Helveston, Laine Frances Phillips, daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Joseph Preston Phillips, Mary Peyton Stewart, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Wayne Stewart, and Jennifer Holleman St. John, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Robert W. St. John.

His Majesty met the Queen as she knelt to be crowned. Dur-

Maids & Dukes continued from previous page to Zeus XIV Jack F. Burke, and Carroll Clark Mayfield was Queen to Zeus XXXI Frank H. Ford, Jr. His aunt, Lara Clark Cooper, was Queen to Zeus L, Garland Williams Sullivan. n Clint Owens Cotten, a Construction Engineering major at the University of Southern Mississippi, is the son of Milam Sylvester Cotten, Jr., and Elizabeth Owens Cotten. At USM, he is a Lucky Day Scholar and a Dean's List Scholar. n Stuart Michael Dodds, son of Mr. and Mrs. Michael Patrick Dodds, is a Biological Sciences major at Mississippi State University. At MSU, he is a member of Sigma Alpha Lambda National Honors Organization, and serves as Social Chairman of Phi Delta Theta Fraternity.

He is a 10-year volunteer at the Abbie Rogers' Civitan Camp. n Shane Weller Emmons, a Biomedical Engineering and Engineering Management major at Vanderbilt University, is the son of Mr. and

ing the crowning, the Royal Troubadour, Hannah Pritchard Rachal, sang the coronation serenade. As their Majesties assumed their places in the Royal Boxes, the Graffiti Classics, Cathal O'Duill, Ruth Elder, Emma Blanco and Steve Kennedy, entertained the assemblage.

The Notable Personages of Storybook Village, who represented the Mother Goose nursery rhymes, were Dignitaries â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the King's Men, Jeffery Martin Keene, Jonathan Edward Neely and Fredrick Adams Pennebaker; Humpty Dumpty, Daniel Dews Jussely, son of Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Herring Jussely; the Crooked Old Man, Travis Lee Bolster with the Crooked Cat, Anna Bradley Black, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Bradley Russell Black, and the Crooked Mouse, Adrian Amaya Conn, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Richard Blake Conn. The King, David Brooks Miller; the Blackbirds, Rhodes Madeline Tatum, Isabella Avis VanSlyke and Zaidee Lee Wall; Baa Baa Black Sheep, Dr. J. D. Dumas; the Dame, Molly Catherine Bowman, the Little Boy down the lane, Hugh Curtis Baker; the Black Sheep, Richard Barnes Conville, Burnice Wesley Curry, V, and Noah Elliott Shemper. Playing "pata-cake" were Anna Kathryn Ashley Andy, Cecile Marie Oliver, Kathryn Ella Slaughter and Audrey Elise Whitehead; the Baker's Man, Whittle Roberts Starrett; Tom, the Piper's Son, Robert Eugene Simmons; the Pig, Richard Jackson Pecunia, son of Dr. and Mrs. Richard Alan Pecunia; William Taylor Browning, John Michael Bonnette and Richard James Posey were the Butcher, the Baker, and the Candlestick Maker; the Old Man Snoring, Mickey Glen Allen; Peter Piper, Dr. George Joshua Blair; Simple Simon, Joshua David Jussely; the Pie Man, Joseph Franklin Tatum, III; Dr. Craig Andrew Thieling was Diddle, Diddle Dumpling; the Muffin Man was Hugh Alexander Sutherland.

The Maids and Dukes were introduced.

With his entire court assembled, His Majesty called for the Royal families to be presented. The narrator then expressed appreciation to Robert William Mulholland, director of this year's Coronation.

With another chapter in the book of merriment scripted, guests were invited to greet the new Monarchs on stage.

Mrs. Rome Augustus Emmons, III. He is president of Delta Kappa Epsilon Fraternity and recipient of the Dr. Pete Riley, Jr. Gamma Scholarship and the Robert C. Byrd Honors Scholarship. n Robert McLaughlin Gore, son of Lee Partee Gore and Maura Delaney McLaughlin, is a Chinese and Public Policy major at the University of Mississippi. He has studied Chinese at Tianjin University in Tianjin, China. At Ole Miss, he is in the Sally McDonnell Barksdale Honors College and the Trent Lott Public Policy and Leadership Institute. He is a member of the Ole Miss Debate Team and the Mock Trial Team, a writing consultant at the University Writing Center, a teaching assistant for the Chinese Department, and a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity. n Thomas Weaver Griffin, III, an Environmental Economics and Management major at Mississippi State University, is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Weaver Griffin, Jr. A member of Sigma Chi, he is a Dean's List Scholar and serves on the Student Assoc. Cabinet.

n Conner Stennis Jones, son of Mr. and Mrs. Jeffery Brannan Jones, is an Accounting major at Mississippi State University. He is an Eagle Scout. At MSU, he is a member of Roadrunners, Beta Upsilon Chi and Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society. n Harry Garrison McArthur is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Harry McArthur, III and Mr. and Mrs. George Phillips. A graduate of Sumrall High School, he graduated from the Marine Corps School of Infantry in 2009. He is currently a Lance Corporal in the United States Marine Corps. His great-grandfather, Harry McArthur, was Zeus VII. His grandfather, Harry McArthur, Jr., was Zeus XL. Dr. D. Harry Halliwell, Jr., his great-uncle, was Zeus XXXV. His cousins, Dr. David Harry Halliwell, III, was Zeus LVIII, Mary Halliwell Guenveur, was Queen to Zeus XXXVII, Ernest H. Ross, Jr. and Sarah Davis Halliwell Carver, was Queen to Zeus LXIV, William Holt McMullan. His aunt, Margaret Franklin Puckett McArthur, was Queen to Zeus LVII, Michael Eugene McElroy.

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Neighbors

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small town girl, who has lived the uptown girl life in the Big Apple – that's Valerie Warrington, who currently hails from Petal.

At the age of 14 she and her mom moved from Oklahoma to Collinsville on the outskirts of Meridian, where she graduated from West Lauderdale High School. Following graduation she moved to Hattiesburg and attended Southern Miss.

She graduated in 2009 with a degree in journalism and a minor in fashion merchandising. “I loved this part,” she said of the fashion merchandising aspect. “I had a passion for fashion shows, public relations and that kind of stuff.”

Foot loose and fancy free after college, she moved to New York City to chase her dream. She moved in with her best friend from high school, who was already living there, and got an editorial internPetal woman following ship with StyledOn.com. “I did a lot of social media marketing, styled for some fashion shows and shoots. We worked a lot with DKNY (Donna Karan New York), Tibi and did a giveaway for Valentino,” she said.

It was expensive living in the Big Apple and after six months she returned to the Hub City to try and refocus her future plans.

She went to work as a visual stylist at Forever 21, dressing mannequins, putting together visual displays for the mall store, outfitting new merchandise, floor planning, mapping and showcases. Her favorite part of her job was being able to fashion her own store windows. “I still wish I could do the mannequin parts,” she said.

“Dressing the interior mannequins had a creative aspect and I loved it, but it also had a retail feel to it.”

While in college, Valerie had begun working with Lee Cave and staff at C Studio, doing part-time graphic design and administrative work. When she decided she wanted to get out of “retail,” with great plans in her head for putting together a fashion show, she contacted Cave about coming back to work full time for him.

“We put our heads together (for the fashion show),” she said of the staff. The culmination of that dream is the C Studio Elite Fashion Show set for April 10 at the Bottling Company in downtown Hattiesburg (See story on Page 56 of this issue).

In May 2009 she also started a blog, Beauty and the Budget, (http://beautyandthebudget.onsugar.com/), and continues to consistently run the site which has upwards of 15,000 readers a month.

The philosophy behind Beauty and the Budget is “Affordable style under $150. Easy to Buy. Easy to Style. Easy to Love.”

She said the site’s biggest followings are women in New York, California and Mississippi. “I schedule and treat it like a business,” she

said of the site, which she posts to at least once or twice a day Monday through Friday, with posts up usually by 9 a.m. She does receive some revenue through advertising, but “not enough to pay any major bills,” she said, “But I love doing it and it's what matters to me.”

Companies who see that she has a sizable audience approach her with their products they'd like to have featured on her site. Because of that, she gets a good bit of free merchandise and samples. “But it's a judgment call about what company to represent,” she said. In a lot of instances she said she feels a need to see a product, and give it a test before lauding its virtues.

Many of the products are given away to followers of the site.

As a creative person and someone who loves all aspects of fashion, she likes to showcase it for others. Her blog allows her to do that. “I'm alher fashionable dream ways on my phone looking at fashion shows or researching a fashion trend, whether clothes, jewelry, makeup or other beauty products. If I find something that looks good, is a great product and affordable then I want to share that information with other women.” She wants her blog to cater to all types of women, especially those on a budget. That's why she started the site in college.

“While some may say that a pair of $70 shoes is affordable, that's not the case for many young professionals or college students living on a budget; $25 is more of a great price,” she said. That's why you'll find her digging through racks and bins at local bargain, thrift and vintage stores. She also does a lot of online shopping where she has found some incredible bargains.

“I want to help women be fashionable on a budget. Most can't afford couture, so I get inspiration from celebrity or runway looks and try to find comparable fashions in affordable prices to make fashion and beauty accessible to everybody,” Valerie said.

She gives drug store beauty products as an example. “Many are just like the high-priced products that are touted out there. I figure they all come from the same vat,” she said. She believes makeup is one of the easiest ways to dress up a look. “Lipstick makes you look awake,” Valerie said of a tired face.

While Mississippi is not the threshold of fashion, she hopes her blog can help change that. “I want everyone to be stylish,” she said.

“When I went to New York, my fashion was behind and I had to give it a tweak. New York is at least 10 years ahead of us.”

She says people in Mississippi appreciate artistic fashion, they just want to do it on a budget, and who can blame them?

Come April 10, the Hub City will get to see just a taste of her talents and watch part of a dream come true.

Valerie Warrington

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Still time to enter drawing for ‘Home Sweet Home’

W

ooded lots line the streets of Vintage Springs where Craftsman Revival-style homes with inviting porches and warm colors provide a welcoming atmosphere.

This neighborhood, reminiscent of the one where your parents or grandparents grew up, features sidewalks and walking trails, open spaces and pavilions to encourage interaction with nature and your neighbors.

Vintage Springs, in the heart of south Hattiesburg, is where you'll find this year’s Home Sweet Home, which is being raffled by the United Way of Southeast Mississippi.

The neighborhood adjoins the Timberton subdivision and is within walking distance of Presbyterian Christian High School.

This gated community, with homes built in the simple, informal and efficient Craftsman style, is conveniently nestled between Interstate 59, and Highways 11, 49 and 98.

Inspired by the delightful neighborhoods of old Hattiesburg, the neighborhood was developed by Cliff Norman and Bob Sullivan, joint owners of High Cotton LLC. The gated main entrance is on Bonhomie Road with a private gate connecting Timberton.

This year’s home at 39 North Founders Way is appraised at $250,000 and was built by Patrick Ward of Southeastern Construction and the Greater Hattiesburg Home Builders Assoc.

(GHHBA). For the 10th year in a row, some lucky person will have the chance to win a new home for only $100. Raffle tickets in the 10th annual Home Sweet Home Raffle, sponsored by the Greater Hattiesburg Home Builders Association and Leaf River

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Cellulose to benefit United Way of Southeast Mississippi, are on sale through March 31. All proceeds will benefit United Way and its partner programs.

“Leaf River Cellulose has once again donated $70,000 to help sponsor the raffle, and we are very grateful for that,” said Brooke Bryan, campaign & communications associate for United Way. According to Bryan, a maximum of 5,000 tickets will be sold.

Tickets sales have started off at a brisk pace, with sales coming from interested parties as far away as Alaska and Germany.

Ward has been an active member of the GHHBA for the past six years. “Construction of the house, whose plan was designed as a joint effort with the staff of the United Way, begins each fall,” said Ward. “In the fall of the year that the house is started, the current vice president of GHHBA builds the house, which is completed and raffled off during that person's term.” Ward is currently serving as president of the GHHBA. Construction on the home began Nov. 1 of last year and, according to Ward, has progressed in a timely manner due to “our mild winter temps.”

Southeastern Construction has built a total of eight houses in Vintage Springs. “My wife, Terri, and I live in Vintage Springs and love it here,” Ward said.

“It has been a privilege to work with the United Way in building this house. They are making a positive impact in our community. Their programs and partnering agencies are meeting the needs within our area on a daily basis. Southeastern Construction

is honored to work with United Way to encourage our area to LIVE UNITED!” The house, which sits on a half-acre lot, has 1,898 square feet of heated/cooled living space and features a split floorplan with 3 bedrooms and 2 baths. Comforts of the master bath include a large closet, whirlpool tub, custom shower and double vanities.

The home with 9 and 11-foot ceilings, has a double garage with two large storage rooms, and features custom cabinetry with quartz and granite countertops throughout. It is pre-wired for a security system and gas logs in the great room.

Southern Interiors provided the flooring and tile work, while Greg Fennell of Swatches served as project interior designer.

“The house is a Craftsman Bungalow, so we kept the colors throughout the home neutral to reflect the informal simplicity of the Craftsman style,” he said. Colors throughout the home range from Quincy Tan in the kitchen, breakfast living room, foyer and halls to a Toasted Pecan in the dining room. The bedrooms are Wheeling Neutral, while Tyler Taupe outfits the walls of the bathrooms, laundry and master closet. All trim is Navajo White.

The kitchen cabinets also feature the Navajo White, but are finished with a tobacco glaze, which gives them an aged look and warms the kitchen area, according to Fennell.

Floor coverings vary from ceramic tile and wood to carpet in the bedrooms. In the main rooms of the house, Fennell chose wood planks in random widths in Hickory Clove. “Hickory Clove is a warmer shade of brown with a hand-hued finish,” Fennell said.

“The planks are 6-inches wide and look great against the neutral wall colors. It also gives the feel of reclaimed wood.”

Ivory and Sequoyah-colored ceramic tile, in both 12”x12” and 18”x18,” are used in the laundry room and baths. The kitchen

backsplash features a tumbled marble interspersed with glass mosaics, which add a little detail.

Fennell's hardware and fixtures choices throughout the house are an oil-rubbed bronze. in keeping with the house’s style.

“I’m very honored to have been chosen to help with this project,” said Fennell. “I have to give credit to Patrick Ward though.

We have worked together on several projecjts and he is just a great builder. It is especially satisfying knowing that the United Way will benefit from this project because they help meet so many needs in our local area.”

A highlight of the home is a huge screened-in back porch (41’4”x8’) which overlooks the deck, perfect for enjoying the cooler spring and fall days in South Mississipi, which are sometimes few and far between The deck would be perfect for enjoying late afternoon get-togethers or cookouts with the neighbors.

And one of the perks is a gas grill to be provided with the house.

Open house tours are being held from 10 am.-4 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday until April 1, and 2-4 p.m. Sundays. Ticket buyers will have a chance to win a free raffle ticket if they purchase their ticket during an open house or at HUBFEST. Directions to 39 North Founders Way: Traveling south on U.S. Highway 49, turn right onto WSF Tatum Drive (just past The Salvation Army Family Store). Go .6 of a mile and turn left on to Bonhomie Road. Drive 1.2 miles and turn right on Vintage Park into the Vintage Springs subdivision. Take the first right on to North Founders Way. Go .3 of a mile, and the house will be on the right.

The last weekend to buy tickets will be March 31 at HUBfest, the open house or online and Sunday, April 1 at the open house.

The winning ticket will be drawn at 6 p.m. Monday, March 9, on location. You do not have to be present to win.

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Cuisine

Get dressed.

Have some decency. No salad deserves to be naked.

N

o salad deserves to be naked. After all, a dish that can deliver so much taste and nutrition in one meal should always be served with style! With all the healthy convenience items available in supermarkets, it’s easy to liven up a lonely bowl of lettuce. Here are some easy ideas from Mrs. Cubbison’s Test Kitchens: Chicken Nugget Caesar Salad — Toss chopped romaine lettuce with bottled Caesar dressing; top with boneless chicken nuggets. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and Caesar Salad Restaurant Style Croutons. A kid-pleasing meal in minutes!

Hamburger Salad — Toss iceberg or green leaf lettuce with diced tomatoes and pickle slices. Top with grilled, cut up beef, turkey or vegetarian burgers. Drizzle with Light or Fat Free Thousand Island dressing and top with Fat Free Seasoned Restaurant Style croutons. Great for low-carb diets.

Baja Fish Taco Style Salad — Place baby salad greens in a bowl and spoon bottled black bean salsa over the top. Sprinkle grilled fish fillet

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pieces over the salsa and top with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream and Seasoned Restaurant Style Croutons.

Pepperoni Pizza Salad — Arrange a bag of mixed salad greens in a large salad bowl. Top with thinly sliced red onion, tomato wedges, sliced pepperoni, and shredded Italian blend cheese.

Add sliced, fresh mushrooms if desired. Pour a 1/2 cup of bottled Italian dressing over all ingredients and serve with Cheese & Garlic Restaurant Style Croutons.

Steak and Potato Salad — Start with leftover grilled steak and oven roasted red potatoes. Cut the steak and potatoes into bite sized chunks. Toss meat and potatoes with sour cream, chives

and cracked black pepper in a bowl; cover and chill. Serve over fresh salad greens and top with Garlic & Butter French Bread Croutons.

California Chicken & Fruit Salad — Use bagged salad greens and freezer section breaded chicken strips that have been heated and chopped. Add fresh strawberry slices, halved, fresh grapes, and peeled navel orange sections. Sprinkle shredded Monterey Jack cheese and Fat Free Seasoned Restaurant Style Croutons and serve with light vinaigrette. A perfect light lunch.

Vidalia Onion & Spinach Salad —Toss a bag of baby spinach with thinly sliced sweet onions and chopped, hard-boiled eggs.

Serve with vinaigrette and Garlic and Butter French Bread Croutons. Sauté fresh garlic slices in butter and spoon onto the salad if desired.

How do you like to dress up your greens?

Enter your ideas in Mrs. Cubbison’s “No More Naked Salads Sweepstakes” for a chance to win a year’s worth of free groceries.

Visit http://www.mrscubbisons.com for complete details.

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T

his Jill of All Trades, who hails from Jackson and is this month's Signature cover model, is first and foremost a business woman, but she's also a fashion designer, former film and television actress, model, news anchor, pageant contestant, product endorser and former Barker's Beauty on The Price is Right.

She currently serves as CEO, creative director and designer for Lauren Jones footwear, a nationally-distributed company whose well-heeled-fashions, some of which are considered “over the top,” are sold in such department stores as Nordstrom, Belk, on Amazon.com and Endless.com, by Alfred Angelo, a bridal retailer, and the ever-popular Kleinfeld in New York, a wedding store known for its “Say Yes to the Dress” television show.

“Shoes are my primary focus, coming up with new designs each season and keeping on top of what’s trending,” said Jones of her current vocation, as she waited for photography equipment to be set up in anticipation of her cover shoot. At the same time she was keeping up, via her iPhone, with a multitude of other tasks indicative of a busy entrepreneur, even hearing from a best friend that her sonogram showed a boy, something Jones had already predicted.

Jones and business partner Av Goodman, who once served as president of Martinez Valero Footwear, founded the soled sensation in 2009. They had met while Lauren was working in California. The footwear line began as unconventional shoes for brides, but

quickly expanded after being picked up by major retailers from coast to coast. The collection has since stepped out into a variety of fashions from bridal and special occasion designs to flats and sexy double platform heels. She also has a line of western boots, which sell in several Jackson businesses, as well as Nordstrom.

Jones considers the shoe line as “fashionforward footwear at an affordable price,” which is very important to her. Shoes, some embellished and with heel heights which run the gamut from a demure kitten to a sky high six-inch double platform, range in price from $70 to $120 and have such names as Vicki, Debbie, Audrey, Anna, Fern, Nora, Vanessa and the best-sellers, Angel and Trigger.

Shoes are named by their constructing.

“Meaning, the “V” names are parallel to the “V” construction,” said Jones, who sometimes finds a shoe style that reminds her of a friend and she tries to fit the name to match, but it’s more about being able to assign a name to the shoe in order for customers to locate it, as well as the company. All sample shoes are made in a size 7, Lauren’s size, “so I can model them at shows and in shoots,” she said.

Lauren’s favorite shoe is “Trigger” and the new “Ryder” boot, which she describes as “classic, chic and affordable” is her favorite boot.

A step up for the company would be to have the shoes featured in the likes of Lord Continued, Next Page

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doctor who's on call at times, he's good about making time available for us when I'm in town,” she said. “We're a team....humble and in love.” & Taylor, Macy's, Victoria's Secret and Zappos.com.

But don't think the pretty petite blond with the knockout The shoes are manufactured in a factory in Mexico and Goodbody is your typical punch line of which jokes are made. Busiman takes care of those trips. “I Skype with him when he's ness savvy, she's got a head on her shoulders and once studied down there,” said Jones, “so I can see what's going on, but as international business law, which she kind of “put on the back far as infrastructure, I've taken more of a backseat. burner.” She is a 2004 graduate of the prestigious Parsons Shoes are made of couture fabrics, such as satins and linens School of Design in New York where she earned a BBA in design with sparkling thread and come in a variety of rich, high-end and management. She also studied theatre, film and television colors turquoise, fuchsia, hot pink at several well-known performing arts schools patent and glittery gold, as well as and later studied abroad at The University of basic bridal white and are inspired Westminster in London.

In August, her company will by high-end red carpet styles. AcShe wants to debunk the “you can't have it cording to Jones, it was reported on all” misconception or blond stereotype. She launch an apparel line known a website that Jennifer Anniston has wants people to know that “good looks and simply as Lauren Jones – sported her designs, as well as shoe smarts can go together.” She's been there; she titan Lisa Pliner. knows. She admits that she's had men tell her “everything from hats, stockInspiration for designs comes from that when they met her they thought she was ings, socks and scarves to little all over. “I love the runways of Paris someone they'd like to go out with a couple of and Milan for inspiration, as well as flirty dresses and easy and times, have a good time and that would be it; following trend alerts,” she said. She not someone they'd become involved with or fun-to-wear clothes and also follows Pantone Inc., the auhave any type of long-lasting relationship. She accessories. We’re just a thority on color, to see what's interand Sinclair have been together for more than esting in the world of colors. “These a year. runaway train. ” shoes,” she said raising her foot and A feature in Oprah's O Magazine in 2009 feapointing to the “nude” stiletto heels tured Jones as one of several women chosen to she's wearing, “are now called see if hair color impacted their careers. Jones nougat instead of nude. They now have more of a tone.” went from a platinum blonde to a brunette.

The shoe business, which also features a line of handbags, is "I've always been obsessed currently based out of Jackson, but Jones is looking to relocate with blonde hair, the whole to a bigger city to make travel more accessible. “Right now Marilyn Monroe look," said travel requires a lot of time, effort and energy because I'm havLauren, in the article. Jones ing to change planes here and there or wait with layovers,” she was startled at the change. "I said of her travels out of Jackson. She's so serious about the never imagined what an immove that her house in Jackson is currently up for sale. mediate and positive impact But her relationship with University of Mississippi Medical I would feel from this change.

Center neurologist Dave Sinclair might be reason to rethink A few days after I got my new any pending move. The couple makes it a priority to see each color, I landed my first role in a other each day and they Skype when she's on the road. “As a Continued, Page 46

Pulse continued from previous page

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Her job as a Barker Beauty on the Price is Right has “probably been the most favorite thing I’ve ever done.”

But don't for a minute think that the majority of what she did was all frou-frou. Jones was offered work with World Wrestling Entertainment on its SmackDown! Brand. There she participated in skits during the first-ever SmackDown! major feature film—and the actress I beat out was a platinum Rookie Diva of the Year contest at No Way Out. blonde! I realize what a stereotype I had been playing into Her job as a Barker Beauty on The Price is Right has “probbefore. Now I actually feel sexier—like people are looking at ably been the most favorite thing I've ever done,” she said. me, not my hair."

“Bob Barker was not the womanizer people think he is. He's Jones, who was raised in Jackson and has now returned to very charismatic, a real nice guy, more fatherly.” And she adthe state capital, has lived in London, Boston, New York and mitted that he is obsessed with “having your animal spayed Los Angeles.. or neutered,” asking that of Jones when she got a chihuahua.

During her junior high days at St. Andrew's in Ridgeland, On the game show she introduced prizes and worked the difJones had the coveted role of Juliet in Romeo and Juliet. She ferent games. On Plinko, where she had to pass out chips, later played soccer, was a homecoming queen and cheer“I'd forget to gather all of the chips up to give to the conleader. By the time she was 17, she was pursuing an acting testant and they'd have to remind me,” and modeling career and by graduation she said. “We'd have to refilm those had steady work modeling. bits, because the show was filmed in “All of this started because of a Sevfront of a live audience, but TV viewers enteen Magazine National modeling She wants to debunk the never saw that.” contest,” Jones said of the competi“you can’t have it all” She said during her days on the show tion she entered at Macy’s at the age the wardrobe was more conservative. of 16 at the urging of her mother and misconception or blond “They had an ancient wardrobe closet,” grandmother. When about 500 others stereotype. She wants people she said. “When Bob left and Drew also showed up for the competition, a Car-ey was coming on board, they really less-than-confident Jones pleaded to to know that “good lucks and vamped up the wardrobes quite a bit. leave, feeling she “didn't stand a smarts can go together.”

One-piece swimsuits went to micro chance.” But they stayed and Jones bikinis. I'm glad I was more of a conserwas among 15 finalists who were chovative Barker Babe,” she said. sen to participate in a fashion show Jones said that Barker urged her to and was eventually nominated the move on. “Don't stay here forever. winner. Her winning photo was pubThere's going to be more to life than this,” he told me. lished “really small” in the magazine, she said. She was then These days, Jones is a member of the Jackson Junior picked up by an agency. “It was hard for me to think of myLeague, where she teaches Arts in Motion. She also helps self as a model,” said the once self-professed “tom boy.” Her Habitat for Humanity and does charitable work with the win landed her an appearance on Live with Regis and Kathie Jackson nonprofit, Gleaners, founded by her grandmother.

Lee where she modeled Ralph Lauren fashions.

The organization provides food to homeless shelters.

During these teen modeling days, she worked as a print Most recently she's been asked to participate in a Dancing model for national brands, as well as promotional events. Just with the Mississippi Stars, a fundraiser to benefit Commushy of her 20th birthday, she signed with the Gilla Roos modnity Places Relocation Initiative in Jackson. She's not yet eling agency in New York and also worked with Wilhelmina sure who her partner will be or what they'll be dancing. All Models in New Orleans and United Talent in Los Angeles. she knows is that she will spend several months learning a The highlights of her career, for which Jones said she is dance routine and compete during a finale at the Country usually most known, include as a Barker Beauty on the Price Club of Jackson. is Right, the Baywatch Beach Body Workout, t“The ExpendThe very busy entrepreneur, who at one time had ample ables,” a feature in Maxim, a story in Oprah's O Magazine time for horseback riding and skiing, finds hobbies a thing and the movie “Anchorwoman.” of the past. And while the young woman who once backTo her credit are numerous advertising campaigns, includpacked across Europe says traveling used to be high on her ing Axe deodorant, Burger King and Coppertone sunscreen. list, “it's not any more. I have to do it so much for work that Magazine publications where she has appeared include ForI don't enjoy it anymore,” she said of travels from Charlotte, tune, Sync, and Men's Health. She's graced the covers of N.C., for a Belk Board of Directors meeting to Seattle, Wash., Sound & Vision, LA Health News, Tyler Today, New Living on the opposite coast for a meeting with Nordstrom, which and The New York Sportscene. keep her on the road two or three times a month. At other In 2010's “The Expendables,” she played the role of times she might be in Boca Raton, Miami or Vegas for shoe Cheyenne, the love interest of Mickey Rourke, which starred shows or meetings. and was written and directed by Sylvester Stallone.

Jones will make her way back to the Hub City on April 10 While she has a full plate and says her focus now has to be to help friend and photographer Lee Cave, whose images of on the business, Jones admits that she'd love “to do one more Jones have appeared on a variety of magazine covers, as she movie...maybe a romantic comedy,” she said. “If time alco-hosts the C Studio Elite Fashion Show. lows.”

Lauren Jones continued from Page 44

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A

shley Eades of Hattiesburg has seen the world....at least the fashionable side of it.

As a model during his post-college days, he strutted runways in Milan, Paris, New York and South Beach in threads by world-renowned designers.

While Eades was born and spent his early years in Hattiesburg, his family (his mom and dad were both teachers, while his grandfather was a longtime Hub City attorney) moved to Poplarville when he entered the first grade. It was there that he graduated and went on to attend Pearl River Community College where he played football for a couple of years before transferring to the University of Southern Mississippi where he earned a degree in Hotel/Restaurant Management/Tourism.

During a weekend trip to New Orleans with friends during college he was approached by an agent who asked if he’d ever considered doing any modeling. “It being New Orleans I thought he was trying to pick me up,” Eades said. The guy later brought a business card back to Eades which gave the conversation some legitimacy.

“I told him I had one more semester of college and wasn’t going to quit to do this,” he said. “He told me to keep his card and contact him after I graduated.”

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that,” he said of his girls. While he does believe his oldest So he did. might have some interest in the modeling field and his midWith no experience, they sent him off to Dallas where he dle child’s build could lend itself to such, he believes his signed with the Kim Dawson Agency. “For those like me with youngest could be an offensive lineman for Southern Miss no experience they send us to smaller markets like Dallas, some day.

Atlanta, Seattle and Phoenix,” Eades said. And they started “I would really never encourage it,” he said. “While all the developing his talent good in the world can come out of it, one night of bad can He got world-renowned agents in both Milan and Paris ruin everything.”

(Fashion Model Management in Milan and Success in Paris) If he had the chance to do it all over again, would he? “The and before long he was headed to Europe where he’d live for educational experience of traveling and being immersed in the next six months. There he was thrown into what he redifferent cultures is something you can’t ferred to as “a very real deal, very cutget anywhere else...not from school or throat industry.” from a book, but from experience,” he “I got work pretty quickly,” he said, said. And he wouldn’t trade that for anymodeling for the likes of Giorgio Ar“I saw the good and bad thing. mani, billed as the most successful deof the industry,” he said. “Young He said the fashion world for men “is a signer to come out of Italy; Salvador Ferragamo, an Italian shoe designer and girls come into town... but within different ballgame than it is for females.

Men are marketable at 18-20 and then Ermenegildo Zegna, a leading fourth a month or so they are on drugs again around 34, while with girls it can generation fashion house. He did some print work, but lots of runway work. and can’t be used. Hundreds are be as young as 14 or 15.”

“I saw the good and bad of the indusWhile in Dallas he'd also done some given a (plane) ticket try,” he said. “Young girls come into catalog work for Nieman Marcus, as and sent home.” town with some of the biggest fashion well as a Levi’s campaign. agencies, many at 14 or 15 years of age Eades had the opportunity to meet without a parent or chaperone. They are and book a couple of jobs with Gianni working a glamorous job, getting into the Versace in South Beach right before the best clubs, where they are taken to the Italian designer was murdered in July VIP section, where anything and everything is readily avail1997. Following his death, Versace’s sister, Donatella, took able,” Eades said. “It’s sad, but within a month or so they are over the company and Eades was never booked again. on drugs and and can’t be used. Hundreds are given a (plane) After 3 1/2 to 4 years of modeling in Europe he returned to ticket and sent home.” He said, however, that girls who arthe states. It was during this time that he cut his longer rive with a mother or chaperone in tow to monitor what they locks off. “I was at that age that I wasn’t getting booked,” he do tend to do well and make money. said. “I was at that weird in-between stage where I was diffi“But it’s all got issues, unfortunately,” he said. “If you cult to market – too young for suits, but... And I wasn’t getwork, then the money is good.” He said while some females ting booked for other stuff,” he said. “I’d always said when I might get a day rate of $2,500 for 8 hours of work, others on stopped making money and had to dip into my own pocket the top end might see $5,000 to $6,000 for the same 8 hours that’s when I’d bow out.” or even $10,000-$15,000 or upwards if they are somebody.

“That's one thing about the business. You do what you can For top end guys, “they might get $9,000-$10,000 a day,” he do. You have to be thick skinned and let things flow off your said. “The money is good and it’s not hard work. But it’s also back. YOU are the product, not the car.” a really shallow line and not very fulfilling as far as accomOnce during a casting call with a major designer, Eades had plishments go. You’re born with a look they can market. And someone ask if he’d ever considered having his ears pinned it’s easy to get burned out within 3 to 4 years. While he’s glad (back) because they stuck out too much. for the experience, “it was very unfulfilling, except when you “You can get beat up pretty badly and at some times it’s regot the check,” he said. pulsive, but that’s the business,” he said.

“Yes, it’s glamorous and fun and all that stuff, if you keep Eades returned to Europe one more time for four or five your head on straight. But you can also find yourself in a lot months before returning home and booking himself out of of trouble in this sex and drug-driven industry. There’s an his agencies. He lived in Houston, Texas, for about 7 years underbelly side to the whole thing,” Eades said. and has been back in South Mississippi for 4. For the last 10 Eades' experience working with Armani is a highlight of his to 12 years Eades has been working for a pharmaceutical fashion career. “He was a loyal client of mine,” he said. “Besales company. fore I got into modeling I knew who Armani was and thought Recently Eades has booked back in with his Dallas agency his stuff was good. I thought I had arrived the first time I and signed on with a New Orleans agency. “At my age (40), ever booked a show of his. It was always a pleasure, he was a there’s a lot you can do because there are so few guys out great guy and I was a fan of his work. Just the best thing there,” he said. He’s getting acclimated back with the ever.”

NOLA agency, whose work is very television oriented. “And I But then again, “I felt lucky when I was booked for anyhave no experience in that, so it’s definitely a learning expething. As long as I was working, I was happy. Your adrenalin rience.” would get to rushing and it became addictive. I loved it.”

Eades is married and has three daughters, ages 15, 6 and 3.

Another highlight was walking the runway during Fashion “I saw enough of the industry that they’re never going to do

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Week, “because you never knew who was in the crowd.”

Eades said photographers, whose work is as different as night and day, could also make or break you. He worked with both Bruce Weber, known for his work with Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein, and Abercrombie and Fitch and Steven Meisel of popular acclaim for his work in U.S. and Italian Vogue.

“They can make your career amazing,” he said, so much so that you almost don’t recognize yourself in photos. But it’s a turkey shoot. Luck. Being in the right place at the right time. ” And Eades’ work with Armani was all but flawless. “At 6’2” 185 lbs. I fit into everything that Armani made. I’d go into a booking, try the clothes on and 9 times out of 10 nothing would have to be altered.” That made for a good fit all the way around.

But just because Eades got to wear the fabulous threads didn’t mean he got to carry any of them home. “That’s not a perk you got,” he said of the fashions which were usually coming out an entire season in advance of availability. In fact, the clothes weren’t something you’d want. Eades explained that most of the clothes had been “damaged” in some way that made them unwearable to one extent or another. “They would damage them so you wouldn’t be tempted to sneak something into your bag,” he said. In several instances, shirts he’d wear on the runway had a big hole cut in the back which wasn’t noticeable when you put a jacket over it. Eades admits that he did get out with a “really great” Valentino tie one time.

“While $1,800 Armani and Hugo Boss suits were tough to part with following a shoot, they were just as expensive in Europe where they were made as they were here,” he said. “It was great quality clothing, but you won’t find it any cheaper in Milan than elsewhere,” he said.

Since returning to normal life, Eades has been working for a small Italian pharmaceutical company which markets an injectable osteoarthritis drug to be used by sports medicine physicians and orthopedic surgeons. His coverage is the Gulf South from Lafayette, La., to Panama City, Fla. “It's a great career, to be providing a product that help peoples. There is satisfaction there.”

And with partner Jeff Farris, he has opened what they consider an interesting venture, Cork Wine and Martini Bar in Hattiesburg. Eades hints that there’s been talk about future Corks in other parts of and out of the state.

While Eades has traveled to and through a lot of big cities which have things that we don’t have here in the Pine Belt, he believes the wine bar concept is one of those things that will continue to move Hattiesburg forward. “Small Southern towns are slow to change; habits are hard to break,” he said. “So you have to be very careful when you introduce something people aren’t so

sure about.

While some would never expect something like Cork here in Hattiesburg, I believe it’s something that will be really good for here.”

He said a lot of people think that wine drinking is stuffy or snotty and that good wine is expensive, “which it doesn’t have to be.” He hopes that Cork can change their minds.

But unlike the days when he was footloose and fancy free, he now has a family. And that changes everything.

While possible modeling work is still in the works, if the money is right, it will be jobs where he can fly to Dallas for a catalog shoot for a couple of days and get back home. “It won’t be immersive,” he says of any potential future work. He hasn’t booked back in with agencies in New York, Miami or LA, while he has in New Orleans, which is closer to home and an option.

“New Orleans is close enough that I could drive down, do a TV shoot and get back home,” he said. He stressed that with the New Orleans and Jackson areas becoming hot spots for filming television and movies, “there might be some opportunities” there so he’s going to keep his options open.

He’s currently working with a coach in New Orleans on the acting side of the job. “While the photo work is acting, it’s different,” he said of TV work. “It takes a lot of time to do that right. I’ve never done that type of work and not sure that I can.”

“I’ve got kids to think about, but if the price is right...” said Eades, who is basically starting over and must remarket himself. “There are no guarantees.

People will have to find me. It’s a delicate balance.”

While he’s come back home and left on several occasions, he’s 99 percent sure that he’s here to stay with plans to build a house on land he owns out between Bellevue and Sumrall. “I always come back home,” he said.

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obbin Lee is a nurse by trade. She’s a wife and mom by choice. But in her heart and soul she’s an artist. A college art major before she turned to nursing, she started out quilting and tinkering with and dying her own fabrics to make quilts and such.

A naturalist, she loves outdoorsy things and gardening, all which you can find in the various pieces of her passion for the last nine years – handmade one-of-a-kind jewelry designs.

To her advantage, her artsy side intertwines with

her love of nature to give her creative juices an incredible boost.

A transplant to South Mississippi, originally from Washington, Lee has had to learn to do the gardening thing all over again. A little different climate has thrown her gardening skills for a loop. She bought things when she moved here that she’d grown back in the northwest corner of the country only to find them dead within a week’s time. But she really likes Continued on next page

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the climate of South Mississippi and thinks she’d like to winter garden on some of the 11 acres she and her husband, Doug Lee, a Hattiesburg attorney, have recently acquired around Purvis.

She met Doug, who moved to Washington following law school at Tulane, at a mutual friend’s wedding. They later married. When his father became sick they moved to Mississippi. At that time she had already been creating her jewelry designs for about a year and a half.

When her son was born, now 9 and the oldest of four, the rest girls, Lee found it difficult to continue with her quilting. “He was always getting into my stuff,” she said. “With jewelry I can just fold it up and put it away in a drawer.”

While in Seattle, Lee said she’d bundle up her son in his stroller and off they’d go to Pike Place Market, where there were bead shops everywhere.

The goal for Robbin Lee’s designs, which are currently sold at Blooms in downtown Hattiesburg and in the gift shop at the Lauren Rogers Museum in Laurel, is that it be affordable, while using quality materials – real gemstones, freshwater pearls (dyed, bleached or natural), rice pearls, lace agate, paua shell, rose quartz, mother of pearl, amethyst, garnet, copper and other elements to make it a treasure.

And if it breaks, “which doesn’t happen a lot, but occasionally,” Lee will fix it.

She also does custom design work and is getting involved in

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creating custom pieces for wedding party members.

You might say as far as her jewelry is concerned that she’s a world traveler. “I do pretty much all of my shopping for supplies on the internet....all over the world. I really look for handmade pieces from other countries,” she said. Some components come from Hill Tribe Silver out of northern Thailand, others from Bali, Indonesia, and pearls from small vendors in China where they are affordable. Some of her pieces include painted pieces out of Russia and several pendants are handblown glass designs from a business in Oregon.

“I pick up different things whenever and wherever I find them,” she said.

While all of her pieces are unique and truly one-of-a-kind, many have a vintage feel. “I watch the BBC a lot and love Renaissance jewelry,” she said. She has several pieces – rings and necklaces – with cameos, reminiscent of a bygone era.

A customer on this particular day, who has purchased quite a bit of Lee’s jewelry in the past, was looking for a ring with owls for her young daughter’s March birthday, but needed it in a specific color or metal. After getting an idea for what the customer was looking for, Lee took her name agreeing to get back with her after some experimentation and customization.

“I’m always experimenting,” she said. In some instances, she takes pieces with a silver or copper finish and tarnishes them, on purpose, to give them a black or darker patina.

Her love of natural things can be seen in her designs, whether a dragonfly, bee, butterfly, bird, leaves, posies and even recycled glass. “I like to buy pretty things and put them together,” she said. “I feel like my job is to match up stuff that belongs together,” which is exactly what she does once a shipment arrives on her doorstep.

She said half the fun is collecting and buying the pieces and then sitting down surrounded by all of her treasures and matching them together. “It’s a good way to use up the excessive energy I have,” she laughs.

While much of her design work is inspired by nature, she also draws inspiration from watching television and from books and catalogs. The idea for a three-strand choker-style necklace with a large cameo clasp came from watching Florence Nightingale. She also peruses websites from other countries to see what they are doing and wearing.

And leftovers aren’t a bad thing in the Lee household.

Many of her favorite pieces are made using a few leftover pieces from several different projects and putting them all together. Lee, who also works part time at Bloom’s, has an advantage because she can see what’s popular and what’s not, what does and doesn’t sell. “If it doesn’t sell in the store after a certain amount of time, I’ll take it back home and refashion it,” she said, “because obviously there’s a little tweaking that needs to be done.”

Other leftovers, which she collects in gallon-size Ziploc bags, are donated for schools projects, or friends and other artisans to use. “They bring a lot of joy to others,” she said.

Lee also donates her finished creations to non-profit organizations to use in charity fundraisers – whether Junior Auxiliary, American Heart Assoc., breast cancer awareness, or a children’s shelter.

The goal for Robbin Lee She considers the designs is that it be affordcreative process able, while using quality “stress relief therapy that pays for itself.” materials – real gemstones, “It’s a wonderful pasfreshwater pearls, lace time” that she dabbles in whenever she agate, rose quartz, mother can. And Lee admits of pearl, amethyst, garnet, that she’s pretty quick at turning out copper and other elements designs. “I can turn to make it a treasure. out 30 to 40 pairs of earrings in a couple of hours,” she said.

“After years of sewing (she loves to make clothes) and starting IVs during her nursing days,” she’s pretty quick with her hands.

And there’s only a certain amount of time for the creative process. “My focus is on the kids, my husband, the house and then the jewelry,” she said. “Dishes, laundry, matching socks, more laundry,” unfortunately all take a precedence for Lee. “The jewelry making (and reading, which she enjoys immensely) help break up the monotony.”

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Project Runway ‘It’s going to be Fashion Week in Hattiesburg all in one day.’

G

“The models will be treated like royalty, complete with gift litz, glamour, gorgeous girls! That’s what you’ll find at C Studio’s Elite Fashion Show set for April baskets that will be incredible,” said Cave. “There will be 10 at the Bottling Company in downtown Hatties- lots of strobes, flashes and photos from the moment the girls start arriving on the red carpet at the venue about 4 p.m.” burg. The show is being billed as one-of-a-kind, Cave said they chose the Bottling Company because it's the likes of which the Hub City has never seen before.

Local high school juniors and seniors will strut their stuff in big enough, but not cavernous. “We believe it will provide an intimate setting.” this high-powered runway event featuring trendy fashions Run-time for the show, which begins at 7 p.m, will be just from local boutiques. Make no mistake, this isn't a punch and under two hours and will include an intermission complete cookies affair, but rather a fast-paced show that will feature with entertainment. the latest spring fashion trends “For those not there, and all the glitz and glamour of they're going to want to be New York. there for this energetic, fun “Take whatever you think it night,” said Cave. “We want might be and kick it up about five the audience to be wowed notches,” said Lee Cave, owner of throughout the night with a C Studio, who along with his staff, high energy vibe.” has been envisioning such an But this is also being event for several years. billed as a social media “It's going to be Fashion Week in event as well. “We will be Hattiesburg all in one day,” said tweeting, posting on FaceValerie Warrington, a graphic book and there will be drawartist/designer for C Studio. ings for certain Facebook “We've always wanted to do ‘likes’ throughout the something like this and have evening,” Cave said. kicked it around for the last three Models will serve as amyears,” she said. “After visiting bassadors for C Studio such shows in other cities and exfor a period of one year. haustive research, we felt now was Models include Amber the time to put on a high-quality Pineda, Virginia Secrest, show that was classy and sophistiKatherine White, Elizabeth cated.” A rebranding at the studio Mapp, Chloe Paige, Olivia during the first of 2012 also proEnger, Morgan Domingue, vided a catalyst.

Morgan Shows, Bria Pitts, Emceeing the show will be Jeff Ashtin Sloan, Shelby Deese, Krapf of Los Angeles, who serves Elise Seale, Madison as the voice of the San Diego Felsher, Harley Felsher, Padres, and has experience with a Cathelin McCarthy, Carley variety of on-air productions, and Clary, Abby Richardson, Lauren Jones of Jackson, who has Rachel Henderson, her own footwear and apparel comKayla Cook, Eden pany, and is this month’s SignaModels Amber Pineda, above and Katherine White, right Dearman, Megan ture’s cover model.

Caves, Emily Crum and C Studio is funding the entire project with 100 percent of the proceeds benefitting a local char- Taylor Long.

The studio is partnering with area boutiques to ity. “We want to keep the money local,” Warrington said. showcase the latest trends. “Those who have A production company has been hired to come in and put signed on include Irie, click, The Abbey, Mostly up the set and stage, lights and large video screens. “The Macie's, Sweet Olive and Polly Esther's closet. screens will splash scenes of the models during the show, “We want people to come dressed up and with images rolling all the time,” said Cave. have a good time,” Cave said.

Dressing rooms with space designated for each model will Tickets are $5 at the door or are available be constructed on site and makeup artists and hair stylists from any of the models. will be on hand to get the girls stage ready before they roll.

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Scene

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ike Russell of Petal, who performs as Elvis Presley, swiveled his hips and crooned to the crowd during a fundraiser at the Petal Civic Center which benefitted Petal Relay for Life. Cancer survivors helped Elvis blow out the candles on a birthday cake at the end of the show. The American Cancer Societyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s goal is to help people celebrate more birthdays.

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DAFS FUNDRAISER

Billy and Carol McGee

Louis Franc, Jimmy Reeves

Becky Sims, William King, Tina Holsen

Raising awareness to combat abuse

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he Domestic Abuse Family Shelter held a fundraiser at the Canebrake home of Wally and Janet Caldwell. The theme for this year’s event was “Cheers to DAFS!” and was sponsored by Carl van Copenhagen of Carl’s Wines and Spirts and the DAFS Board of Directors. Special music was provided by Adam Doleac. All proceeds, whether from ticket sales, raffles or donations, will benefit DAFS, which is a United Way agency.

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Chester Moore, Wally Caldwell

Renee Neese, Louis Franc

Anita Blount, Sally Roberts, Susan Moore

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Terry and JoEllen Martin

Jane & Ray Crawford

Elizabeth Porter, Lindsey Massey, Katie Case

Chase and Amanda Blankenship

Aaryanne Preusch, Lily Ponce, Dr. Marcia Hartwig

Brenda and Bruce Morgan

Katey Wilson, Leslie Cucullu

ROSSâ&#x20AC;&#x2C6;ANNIVERSARY

Dr. Daffene and Keith Curtis, Shannon Dill

Linda White, Tonyia Bentin

Cassandra Coleman, Patricia Pittman

Victoria Peters, Nikki Graham, Kesha James

Ty Robertson, Earl Robinson

Alicia and Donell Brannon

Keira & Sandy French

40 wonderful years

M Garshelia & Leona Jones

r. and Mrs Perry Ross celebrated their 40th anniversary party with a dinner at the Jackie Dole Sherrill Community Center.

A large crowd was on hand for the event which was hosted by their daughter, Rosalyn Heard and friend, LaSandra French.

Kathryn Boid, Reveita Daniels, Jameka Robertson, Daphne Moore, Joanetta Boid

William Murphy, John Wayne, Kelvin James, Roy Peters, Robert Tate

Annie &â&#x20AC;&#x2C6;Terry Jackson

Remame Anderson, Racquel Thomas

Fannie and Thomas Evans

Tonya Dill, Jamal Jordan

Kathleen & Charles E. Hartfield

Charles and Linda Lee

Cokie and Erashonda Crosby

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2 LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU! 5026 Hardy Street (in front of Hobby Lobby) • Hattiesburg Highway 49 (by Cloverleaf Mall) • Hattiesburg Monday - Saturday 8:00a.m. - 5:30p.m.

SHOPLOCAL•SHOPLOCAL•SHOPLOCAL•SHOPLOCAL•SHOPLOCAL•SHOPLOCAL•SHOPLOCAL•SHOPLOCAL

FCA NIGHT WITHâ&#x20AC;&#x2C6;BOWDEN

Ashley, Mathew, Tonya, Michael, Anthony McCullum

Judy Mixon, Nina Mixon

Anthony Dillon, Brad Hughes

Fletcher Travis, Gayle Galey

Coach Bobby Bowden

A coaching legend in the Hub City

T Chastity Piggien, Tandra Patterson, Meredith Barefield

David Bierch, Ross Sullivan

he Pine Belt Chapter of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and Hattiesburg Clinic hosted "A Night with a Legend." Bobby Bowden, the second all-time winningest coach in NCAA history spoke at Lake Terrace Convention Center. A silent auction was held in conjunction with the event and guests had the opportunity to meet and take a photo with Coach Bowden and receive a signed copy of his newest book.

Celeste Jones, Keâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Desmond Jones Dima Mixon, Todd Mixon

Patrick James

Noah and Jon Thornton

Mitchell and Sheila Williams

Seth McDonald, Shelby Allen, Sam Dean

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PINOCCHIO AT SAENGER

Kayla Fortenberry, Leanne Griffith, Suzy Fortenberry, Noah Fortenberry, Erin Fortenberry

Lily and Leah Piper Kadin, Alice and Rilee Callier

Emily, Virginia, Connor, Rachel and Steve Pearson Jacob, Lanna and Justin Wakeland

Sophie and Garrell Bell, Pat and Norbert Zahm

Pinocchio comes to life on stage

T

he American Family Theater presented Pinocchio at the Saenger Theater in Historic Downtown Hattiesburg. Those in attendance had the opportunity to join Pinocchio on his journey to becoming a real boy through the magic of live musical theater.

Vikki Thomas, Hunter Tolito, Michael Jones, Adrianna Coats

Zac Bennett, Taylor Deen, Miranda Jeanmard

Isabel Stinson, Belen Palza, Olivia Stinson, Yolanda Ondine Rudolph, Arya Shoja

Patsy, Alayma and Audra Horan, Pat Williams, Lindsey McCarty

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Monica and Emily Smith, Sarah Grace Hood

Tyse Whigham, Junita Harding

Lynn Lovelace, Jessica Shaw, Tandy Lovelace, Ella Shaw, Brooke Lovelace

Eli and Anna Kathryn Bullock, Diana Walker, Tina Bullock

Chris, Treven and Chanci Odum

PETAL DYW

Amy Clolinger, Anna Bess Simmons, Shannon Anderson, LeighAnn Thoms

B.K. and Denise Traweek

Barbara and Bill Hickman

Carolyn Spiller, Elizabeth Logan

Coury Clearman, Jessi and Taylor Simmons, Tori McLeod

Leslie Walker Stevens, Walker Stevens, Debbie Walker

Jo Carlisle, Makenzie Nagy

Haley Humphries, Jessie Shoemake, Anna Smith

Jeanie and Gabbie Munn

Anne Makay and Kristie Fairley, Annaleigh Buckley

Kolbo is winner

M Mauri Yarber, Annette Davenport, Elizabeth Logan

Rachel and Kaylee McKenzie, Amanda Flynn

April Carrico, Christi Oswalt, Verna Bowen, Liz Brock

JaCi, Shelia and Shelby Wesson

Taylor Clifton, Hannah Keyes, Melanie Soldinie

adison Kolbo was recently named Petal’s newest Distinguished Young Woman. The daughter of Jerome and Eadie Kolbo won the interview, talent, self-expression and fitness competitions, in addition to being named the overall winner. Haylee Upton was named runner-up and also was the scholastic winner. Bre Moreno was the “Be Your Best Self ” essay winner and Tameron Hardges received the Spirit Award.

Lauren Haines, Marisa Pasquale, Alicia Frazier

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DEBUTANTE BALL

Pam Baas, Amelia Landers

Kayla and Dale Purvis Chloe and Dr. Hardy Henderson

Chelsea Butler, Lana Stewart, Anna Leigh Butler Rachael and John Christopher Gandy

32 young women presented

T

he Hattiesburg Debutante Association helds its annual holiday presentation at the Saenger Theater in Historic Downtown Hattiesburg. Kelly Sanner served as emcee and music was provided by the Rhythms Quartet.

Flower girls were Abby Katherine Ogletree and Anna Lee Weathers. A ball followed at the Hattiesburg Country Club with music by the 6550â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s.

Ashli and Dr. John Fitzpatrick

David Roberts, Alexa Moore Colton Farris, Lauren Carter

Mary Allison Campbell, Alex Doleac

Alexandra and Ken Knopp

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Alex Bradley, Anna Beth Higginbotham, Lauren Henley

Jack Fitzpatrick, Elizabeth Lucas

s i g n a t u r e mag a zi ne

Amelia and Wayne Landers

Anne Caroline Lovitt, Meredith Lucas

Meredith Lucas, Lauren Henley

Margaret and Janet McArthur

Elizabeth Lucas, Carl Parker

Kayla Purvis, Meredith Lucas

Ashley McLeod, Callie Dollar

Ashli Fitzpatrick, Blair Jackson

Christina Bostick, Elizabeth and Meredith Lucas

Anne Caroline Lovitt with friends

Madison and Miles Cotten

Emily Nettleton, Ashley McLeod

Greg Aston, Anne Gammill, Clayton Harmon

Michael Sims, Anne Marie Brahan

Leah Winstead, James McMahon, Hunter Curtis

Brooke and Lehman Braley

Rachel and Gail Weldy

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NIGHT OF GIVING

Allison Neville, Dan Kibodeaux, Caroline Nurkin

Susan Corley, Sandra Mills

Brett Montague, Megan Burkes, Jay Huffstatler

Kelli Booth, Bill Mowers, Gregory Tregre

Lesley Wood, Catherine Lott, Beth Ballard, Brad Dickson

Roderick Edwards, Gregory Clark, Mark Knight, Robert McRae, Joshua Barnes, Andre Heath

Sylvia Marengo, Shellie Moses

Kami Fleener, Bettie Ross, Cindy Bivins

Joy Lines, Jayne Buttross, Katie Tate

Annie McMillan, Valencia Williamson, Stacey Stiglets, Chelsea Williams

Evening of giving

T

he Hattiesburg Area Development Partnership (ADP) sponsored “An Evening of Giving” at The University of Southern Mississippi’s Accelerator. The event showcased various local non-profit organizations in a fun-filled atmosphere that included live music.

J.R. Robinson, Sheila and Fred Varnado, Cecilia Jones

Bill and Mary Nolan

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Linda Marie Vasquez, Ursula Jones, Johnny Hansell

Joell, John McDonald

Patricia King, Cookie and Bill Prout

Chad Newell, Jim Wild

Kate Knight, Dawn Skaggs

GIRLâ&#x20AC;&#x2C6;SCOUTâ&#x20AC;&#x2C6;GALA

Abby Smith, Samantha Lee

Keisha and Ariel Jordan, Shar Drennan

Calah and David McNamee

Kim, Chloe and Daniel Graves

Kimrey and Mike Rethert, Kelsey and Jeremy Rose, Mya, Myat and Brian Kayden Linton

Ariel Jordan, Lydia Thornton, Anna Harvison, Garnet and Jessica Santangelo, Celene Rogers

Pine Belt Girl Scouts and their families walk the Red Carpet

Madeline, Braeden, Joseph and Jackie Lee

Aimee Green, Zaylee McMichael, Alexis Setliff, Diane Green, Kimberly Setliff

Brian and Meredith Archer

T

he annual Red Carpet Event, a celebration of girls who are a part of Girl Scouting, was held this year at the Petal Civic Center. The event was open to any registered Girl Scouts and their families. This was the fifth year for the event, which included a talent showcase, scavenger hunt, father-daughter dance, an opportunity for families to take family pictures and other activities. Girls were dressed in prom-style dresses. Garnet Santangelo, troop leader for Troop 6871 and Service Unit Master for the Petal area, was an organizer.

Abby and Janiece Smith

Seth and Jade McMurry

Callie Hastings, Ryleigh Kenney, Johnna Hastings

Carmen and Phillip Lawson

Madison and Michael Thomas

Josh, Elizabeth and Meagan Walker

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PERCYâ&#x20AC;&#x2C6;WATSONâ&#x20AC;&#x2C6;GALA

Jerry Lewis, Jocelynn Page, Annie M. Watts, Maxine Smith, Glenda Mason

Francine G. Clayton, Cynthia McIntyre

Percy and Barbara Watson

In the spirit of giving...

P

ercy W. Watson, chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee, held his 23rd Annual Appreciation Gala at the Lake Terrace Convention Center. Watson expressed his appreciation to friends, constituents and supporters. The night included food, entertainment and fellowship.

Bev Gamble, Brenda Jackson, Jocelynn Page, Sarah Holloway

Kim Gowdy, Sandra Chambers Jerald, Jacqueline Milsap, Gregory Clark

Mary Ethel Frelix, Sarah Moore, Faley Weathersby

Lee Gertha Jackson, Quintella Smith Baxter, Melanie Smith, Juruthin Woullard, Valaresia Pam

Reginald and Rita Myers, Anita and Carl McSwain

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Thomas and Fannie Evans

Jackie Travis, Shwanda Shelton, Torsky Williams

Lolita and Willie Burton Jr., Perez & Reshonda Moody, Verna L. Miller

Jimmie Harrell Sr., Cecil and Joanne Allen, Rochelle and C.R. Hopkins

Sally Johnson, Linda Montgomery, Thelma Wash, Jacqueline Roberts, Regina Roberts

Melba Houze

Mamie and Heubert Hardy, John C. and Janice Sanders

Richard Thorp, Phyllis Owens, Lillion L. McConnell, Martha Morene, Lawrence Boudreux

Verna Bivins, Peggy Fluker, Shelley Garner

Yvonne Harrison, Carolyn Scarbrough, Sarah Dean, Glenda Deloach

Ella Renchie, John Lindsey, Mattie Lindsey, Tiffany Lindsey

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MSUâ&#x20AC;&#x2C6;ALUMNIâ&#x20AC;&#x2C6;ASSOC.

Chicago Cubs Pitcher Paul Maholm, Scott Stricklin

Hail State alums!

T

he Southeast Mississippi Chapter of the Mississippi State Alumni Assoc. held a chapter meeting recently at Canebrake Clubhouse. The chapter serves Lamar, Forrest, Marion and Perry counties.

John McWhorter, Nick Thompson, Lori Perkins, Elyse Rieder, Jessica Maholm, Emily Hall, Tina Litton, Donovan McComb

Haley Whalen, Kari Lamb

Cary Williams, Glenn and Cindy Harrison, A.D. and Debra Hunt

Scott Stricklin

Carol and Jerry Scott, Lindsey and Devon Bellcase

Amy Thornton, Tom Shows, Kelly Thornton, John Sparks

110

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Bo Hemphill, Strat Karatossos, Martha and Ken Lee

Bo and Ree Brahan, John McWorter, Richard Topp

Bailey Owens, Michael Richardson

ELVISâ&#x20AC;&#x2C6;FUNDRAISER

Elvis, Hanna Eckie-Marengo

Elvis and friends blow out birthday cake candles

Kim Merritt, Elvis

Celebrating more birthdays

M Elvis, Josie Murray

Angela Graves, Lauren Mitchell

Joan Brady, Beth Simon

Katie Clearman, Cali Greene, Elvis

Buddy and Kathy Wheat, Barbara and Jack Delk

Harold and Shirley Daughtrey

Glenn and Robin White

ike Russell of Petal, who performs as Elvis Presley, swiveled his hips and crooned to the crowd during a fundraiser at the Petal Civic Center which benefitted Petal Relay for Life. Cancer survivors helped Elvis blow out the candles on a birthday cake at the end of the show. The American Cancer Societyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s goal is to help people celebrate more birthdays.

Joan Davis and husband with Elvis

Chris and Deniesa Marengo

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112

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When it seems like all you have is hope, we are here to provide you with hope and much more. As part ofUniversity of Mississippi Health Care, the state's only Academic Medical Center, Batson Children's Hospital is the state's most advanced hospital for treating childhood's most serious conditions, from heart defects to cancer to cystic fibrosis, and more.

I

Batson 1/fr :.

Children's Hospital University of Mississippi Health Care

Because your kids are our world.

Learn more at umhc.com/childrens or cal1888.8I5.2005.

Some hope for a boy.

Others hope for a girl.

We're here for the ones who hope for a miracle.

At Alden Pointe, we make sure that no matter what level of care is needed, you or your loved one will be comfortably at home with us. We understand that excellent health care is at the heart of your needs, so we tailor the "neighborhoods" of Alden Pointe toward the specific needs of our Residents- from very little assistance to continuous care.

But that's our commitment at Alden Pointe.

To create a place you'll feel comfortable, cared for, and secure.

9- 1 "~a,e,ei.f14~· Alden Pointe Assisted Living ~.. SENIOR DAY PROGRAM Alden Pointe understands the challenges of families trying to care for loved ones while also trying to work. We are able to offer a secure environment and skilled staff to ensure your loved one's needs are met while they are in our care.

OUR SERVICES INCLUDE: • • • • •

Daily activity programs geared towards individual interest Nutritious, great tasting well-balanced meals Nursing Staff for medication assistance/health care needs Resident assistance with activities of daily living Beauty Salon/Barber Shop (Tuesdays) Program Hours: Monday-Friday 8:00am-5:00pm All exterior doors monitored and alarmed at all times

Contact Kathy McPhail at 601-296-9711 for more information.