AUGUST 2018
OXFO R D
BACK TO SCHOOL
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FE ATURES
DEPA RTMENT S
36 Silicon Valley South
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Letter From the Publisher
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Calendar
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Shoutouts
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InstaLove: Loving the Ordinary Moments
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Cover Kids Q&A
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Restaurant News
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Restaurant Guide
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In Season: Beat the Heat
ON THE COVER
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What's In
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Out & About
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Recipe: Mocktails to Cocktails
We had hundreds of adorable kids in our cover contest. The winners are 5-year-old Meg and 8-year-old Emma, who is autistic. On page 26, read how this family copes and finds hope with a child with special needs.
A little program in Water Valley is making a big contribution by introducing high school graduates to careers in the information technology industry.
42 Beyond the Ball
Kids discover challenges and rewards in alternatives to traditional sports.
48 The Memory Palace
A world champion in memorization shares his techniques with others through a nonprofit he co-founded with his wife.
56 Beautiful Bugs
Oxford doctor Philip Loria captures insects, but not the way you might think.
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PHOTOGRAPHED BY JOE WORTHEM
AUGUST 2018
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EVENTS 62
Firecracker Bash
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Base Camp Coding Academy
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Newcomers Club Luau
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Red Carpet Gala
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Splash’n’Dash 5K
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Youth Banquet
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Tunes and Tails
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Bourbon Festival
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OPD Fun Day
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Ole Miss Orientation
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Goodnight Market
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League of Women Voters
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Mutts at the Marina AUGUS T 2018 | INVITATION OXFORD
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L E T T E R from the P U B L I S H E R Over the summer, we’ve had some exciting things brewing at Invitation Oxford. You’ll see it reflected in some changes we’ve made throughout the magazine, and we couldn’t be more proud of our new look. The vision behind the redesign is our talented new creative director, Holly Vollor. You can read more about Holly on page 53. I had always admired her art and design skills whenever I saw them on social media and in person, so when it was time to look for a new creative director, I called her, thinking she might know someone who would be interested. Never in a million years did I think she would be willing to come on board herself. To say we are grateful to have her here is an understatement. You’ll certainly want to spend some time with a few new things we’re featuring in every issue. On our What’s In page, we’ll highlight several products that are for sale
FOLLOW US
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locally that you won’t want to miss. And it’s no secret that Oxford has a lot of great places to eat, and more seem to be opening every day. Be sure to read the Restaurant News on page 28 to find out the newest places to dine in and around Oxford. This summer we engaged over 10,000 readers on social media and had more than 700 children entered into our cover contest. You’ll learn about our contest winners, Emma and Meg, on page 26. Their family’s story is one of struggle, coupled with patience and hope — Emma, age 8, is autistic. But that doesn’t deter her parents from creating an atmosphere of love and kindness for their daughter and others they have met along their journey. Due to internet safety issues and other matters, this will be our last cover contest. We certainly appreciate the participation of thousands of people over the last several years.
@INVITATIONOXFORD
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Lastly, with summer winding down and school beginning, we found several stories to tell — for example, the success of the students at Base Camp Coding Academy in Water Valley. The program introduces Mississippi high school students to careers in information technology, tuition-free. Since it began in 2015, 100 percent of its graduates have found employment. We hope you will enjoy the brand-new design of Invitation Oxford. Please let us hear from you: Send us feedback on what you like about our new look. If you have any great stories you’d like to see featured in upcoming magazines, feel free to email me at rachel@invitationoxford.com.
RACHEL M. WEST, PUBLISHER
@INVOXFORD
PUBLISHERS Phil and Rachel West
EDITORIAL
EDITOR IN CHIEF Allison Estes EXECUTIVE MANAGING EDITOR Mary Moreton CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Emily Welly CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Caitlin Adams Brooke Hutson Gibson Kimme Hargrove Sarah McCullen Keith Gore Wiseman SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR Sarah McCullen COPY EDITOR Kate Johnson
OFFICE
BUSINESS MANAGER Hollie Hilliard DISTRIBUTION Donald Courtney Brian Hilliard MAIN OFFICE 662-234-4008
ART
CREATIVE DIRECTOR Holly Vollor STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Joe Worthem CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Philip Loria Sarah McCullen Jessica Richardson Megan Wolfe CONTRIBUTING ILLUSTRATOR Blake Young
ADVERTISING
ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS Alise M. Emerson Leigh Lowery Lynn McElreath Stacey Raper Moni Simpson Whitney Worsham ADVERTISING DESIGNERS Zach Fields Becca Pepper ADVERTISING INFORMATION ads@invitationoxford.com
To subscribe to one year (10 issues) of Invitation Oxford or to buy an announcement, visit invitationoxford.com. To request a photographer at your event, email Mary at mary.invitation@gmail.com. Invitation Oxford respects the many diverse individuals and organizations that make up north Mississippi and strives to be inclusive and representative of all members of our community.
PLEASE RECYCLE THIS MAGAZINE
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C A L E N DA R AUGUST 2018
Water Valley Watermelon Carnival A U G U S T 3- 4
Celebrate National Watermelon Day with fireworks, food and craft vendors, a street dance, a barbecue contest, a car show and live entertainment.
B A C K to SCHOOL
watervalleychamber.info
AU G U S T 3
Boosters and Blues
Lafayette County School District gocommodores.org
AUGUST 4
Oxford Charger Athletic Booster Club hosts its fourth annual fundraiser, “Charging Back to the 80’s,” with music by Spunk Monkees, food by My Michelle’s and a cash bar. OMS and OHS Parent of the Year, Coach of the Year and winner of the Super Charger award will be recognized. Tickets $55-$150. 7:30 p.m., the Powerhouse
AU G U S T 8
Oxford School District oxfordsd.org AU G U S T 2 0
University of Mississippi
PHOTO COURTESY OF MANCHESTER ORCHESTRA
olemiss.edu
Manchester Orchestra AUGUST 9
The Atlanta-based indie rock band performs at The Lyric Oxford after releasing their fifth album, “A Black Mile to the Surface,” last summer. Tickets $22$26. Doors open at 7 p.m., show at 8 p.m. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian over age 21. thelyricoxford.com
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The Art-er Limits Fringe Festival A U G U S T 9 -12
FOOTBALL AU G U S T 1 7
Oxford vs. Warren Central 6 p.m. at Oxford Middle School AU G U S T 2 4
Oxford vs. Starkville 7 p.m. at Oxford Middle School Lafayette vs. Charleston 7 p.m. at Lafayette High School AU G U S T 3 1
Oxford vs. Grenada 7 p.m. at Grenada High School Lafayette vs. North Panola 7 p.m. at North Panola High School
The fifth annual Art-er Limits Fringe Festival celebrates local art and includes the Iron Bartender cocktail competition, a secret show, music, kid-friendly entertainment, an interactive lightprojection display and the Food Truck Fight. Daytime events are free. Evening events require a ticket. Tickets $15-$40. Weekend and day passes available. oxfordarts.com
Perseid Meteor Shower A U G U S T 12-1 3
The Perseids begin in July and peak each August, as Earth passes through debris from Comet Swift-Tuttle, and may reward viewers with as many as 60-100 meteors per minute. Start looking in the northnortheast as soon as it’s dark.
Bell’s Back-to-School Beer Tasting AUGUST 22
“Saved by the Bell”-themed beer sampling features ales from Bell’s Brewery in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Dress in character for a chance to win door prizes. Familyfriendly, but must be age 21 or older to participate. 4-7 p.m., Jackson Beer Company facebook.com/events/397848020712571
Living Out Loud Women’s Conference AUGUST 25
Hosted by Living Out Loud with Alley Bell and Amanda Reed, this women’s event features music and teaching by Rebekah Lyons, Cynthia Garrett, Jill Freeze, Jon and Heather Gilley and more. Tickets $35 presale or $50 at the door. 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Oxford Conference Center
Film Screening AUGUST 27
The Oxford Film Festival hosts a free screening of “All the Difference” at Burns-Belfry Church as part of its Monday Movies series. The film depicts the difficulties that two young AfricanAmerican men in Chicago face in trying to graduate from college. 6:30 p.m., Burns-Belfry Church oxfordfilmfest.com
#CollegeColorsDay AUGUST 31
Celebrate back-to-school season on National College Colors Day by sporting your team colors. Snap a photo and post it with #CollegeColorsDay to show your school pride. AUGUS T 2018 | INVITATION OXFORD
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S H O U T O U T S S e l f- S e r ve F lowe r s
“Po r t a l s” by G le n n ray Tuto r
S C I P: S e r v i n g C h i ld re n of I nc a rc e rat e d Pa re nt s
Oxford-based artist Glennray Tutor’s debut art album is “Portals,” published by Yoknapatawpha Press. With over 236 paintings, the book showcases the vivid hues and photographic detail that have earned Tutor the distinction of being one of the top 50 hyperrealists in the world. Tutor’s work has been featured in magazines, in movies and on television, as well as on book and music album covers, and his paintings have been displayed in public and private exhibits around the world. Square Books is hosting a signing and a discussion about “Portals” between Tutor and artist Deborah Freeland, with free snacks and cocktails, at 5:30 p.m. August 11 at the Power house. The book launch is part of this year’s Art-er Limits Fringe Festival.
According to a report by the Annie E. Casey Foundation, over 5 million children have had a parent in jail or prison at some point during their lives. The financial and emotional toll on these kids can be devastating and can have lasting impact. Few programs exist to help kids through the experience, though they have been shown to be beneficial. One such program is SCIP, founded by Miss Mississippi Asya Branch. SCIP is a mentorship program staffed by University of Mississippi student and faculty volunteers, who serve as mentors for kids with incarcerated parents. SCIP connects with kids through schools, churches and other community groups and can be an encouraging, stable presence in their lives. Branch’s own father was imprisoned when she was a child. Separated from her father, she struggled with low self-esteem. From that experience grew her desire to help children in similar situations, leading to the formation of SCIP. To learn more, email scip@olemiss.edu.
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PHOTO BY MATT BOYD PHOTOGRAPHY
As you stroll around the Square this month, you may notice a new addition, but it’s not the boutique or restaurant you might expect. In the courtyard next to Uptown Coffee is a wooden stand with fresh local flowers for sale on the honor system. Katherine Sharp of Farmstead Florals, a part of The Farmstead at Woodson Ridge, came up with the idea when she found herself with a surplus of the sunflowers, zinnias and hydrangeas she grows for florists. Determined not to let them go to waste, Sharp built the wooden booth one rainy weekend with her father, placed it on a busy strip of the Square and leaves the booth unattended, trusting customers to take only what they pay for. Flowers will be available until the first frost. “I knew that if it would ever work, it would work in a place like Oxford, and it has,” Sharp said.
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instaL O V E L ov i n g t he O rd i n a r y Mo me nt s WRITTEN BY SARAH McCULLEN
Every day is filled with experiences that are worth noticing but get lost in the busyness of our lives. Loving the Ordinary Moments is a celebration of the seemingly mundane times with our kids that we don’t always pause to cherish. Ohio mother and homeschooler Darcel White started the Instagram account a year ago, out of a desire to capture memories of her own children. Then she wanted to expand her vision, so she put out a call and recruited six other women from all over the country to contribute. The women, mothers from New Jersey, Kansas, Pennsylvania and other states, rotate as “moderators.” On their assigned day, they search through photo submissions tagged with #lovingtheordinarymoments and choose favorites to feature. Scroll through the feed to discover sweet smiles, silly faces and tender gestures frozen in time — a reminder to treasure
FOLLOW ON INSTAGR A M @l ov i n g t h e o r d i n a r y m o m e n t s
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those long days that are gone before you know it. Snap photos and tag them with #lovingtheordinarymoments, and you might find yours featured on the feed.
THE
Lifestyle Deserve
ETTA RIDGE, LLC ETTA RIDGE, LLC OX F O R D
YO U
E T TA R I D G E . C O M T OW N H O M E S F O R R E N T
662-202-8890 P RO P E R T I E S @ E T TA R I D G E . C O M
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COVER KIDS Q&A W it h S h a n no n R ic h a rd s o n , mot he r of E m m a , 8 , a nd Me g, 5 INTERVIEWED BY RACHEL WEST
Q: Why did you participate in the Invitation Oxford cover contest? A: Well, when I first saw it, I thought it was a cute idea. Never in my wildest dreams did I think we’d be chosen. When we found out we were semifinalists, I thought, this could be a platform for people who are dealing with disabilities in our community. Looking at a photo, you probably wouldn’t know Emma has autism. It’s not a physically recognizable trait. Q: Tell us about Emma’s journey. A: She developed normally as a baby. But around 18 months we started noticing she wasn’t talking a lot. Not making eye contact and things of the sort. We continued to watch her, and just before she turned 3 she was diagnosed. Q: How did you feel when you found out Emma was autistic? A: You don’t want to believe it when your child has a problem like this. I was 8 months pregnant with Meg when we found out. It was shocking, and we had all kinds of questions. What is her life going to be like? What is our life going to be like? Will she be taken care of once we are gone? Will she ever have a job? And these are still questions we don’t know. It’s still scary for a lot of reasons. Q: How do you deal with this day in and day out? A: We have so many friends and family who are so understanding of Emma and her needs. We are so blessed by the support we have, but at the same time, it is isolating. Having dinner out can be challenging, for example. [Emma] can have tantrums and meltdowns, and it’s because she can’t express herself verbally. If someone doesn’t know that, it looks like a child is just misbehaving in public. There are some situations that she’s just not going to be successful in, but if
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PHOTOGRAPHED BY JOE WORTHEM
you ever want to go out to eat or something like that as a family, then you just have to deal with it. You just have to ignore the looks and forge ahead and know that you are parenting the best that you can. There is sometimes a lot of pride you have to swallow. Parenting is hard, but parenting a special needs child is crazy hard. Q: Are there local support systems that you have found helpful? A: We have an awesome church that is very intentional about being inclusive of people with special needs. Very rarely do parents with children with special needs get a break, and certainly not often do they have a place where they know their children are being cared for and feel comfortable. The Oxford School District and Bramlett have been fantastic. There’s a Facebook autism group that began a few years ago. I often get messages from parents who have children with special needs, and they have nowhere
to go, and it makes them feel so alone. I wish there was something in our community — some kind of a clearinghouse for people to turn to and find different ways to support them. But in a smaller community, there’s just not as much of that. I think we’re making progress, but I just want other parents to know there are people who understand. Q: How would you describe Emma and Meg’s relationship? A: Emma shows love differently, obviously. She’s more independent; she isn’t as touchy-feely. Meg’s very affectionate. They have such a sweet relationship. Meg is [Emma’s] biggest champion. Anytime we’re in public and she does something that might seem weird to others, Meg is the first to defend her. She loves Emma so much and wants her to be included. Q: What would you say to someone who is learning their child has special needs? A: The saying goes that if you’ve met
COVER KIDS Q&A
continued
one person with autism, then you’ve met one person with autism. It’s not the same journey for any one person. It’s very normal to have a grieving process. There are a lot of people out there who say autism or any type of special need doesn’t define my child. And that’s right; it doesn’t. But it’s a huge part of your child’s life. And there are a lot of people who say that they love the fact that their child is autistic because they are creative, a genius and that kind of thing. But I wouldn’t wish autism on anyone, quite honestly. Emma has a lot of anxiety because of it. I do know there’s so much beauty in her world the way she sees it. And it’s our job to help her navigate that. It’s definitely not the end of the world, but learn as much as you can about it. You have to adjust your expectation and outlook as to what you dream for your kids. And it might not be the exact dream you had thought, but it can still be a beautiful dream. AUGUS T 2018 | INVITATION OXFORD
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R E S T A U R A N T news Bacchus Prime Steakhouse
Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken
R E VA M P E D | 12 2 C O U R T H O U S E S Q U A R E
Previously known as Bacchus on the Square, the revamped restaurant’s menu now offers aged steaks, seafood, Frenched pork chops, Gulf oysters and a dozen craft cocktails.
No longer on the Square, the local franchise of the Tennessee-based chain is now serving its classic spicy fried chicken in the former Lamar Lounge building.
662-638-3800 | bacchussquare.com
662-638-3420 | gusfriedchicken.com
Brick & Spoon
M O V E D | 1 3 0 9 N . L A M A R B LV D .
Brick & Spoon
Track 61
N E W | 1 8 0 1 W. J A C K S O N AV E .
N E W | 703 B N . L A M A R B LV D .
Originally in Orange Beach, Alabama, and voted one of the best breakfast restaurants in the U.S. by Travel + Leisure, Brick & Spoon offers upscale Southern breakfast and lunch options, complete with signature cocktails and build-your-own Bloody Marys with custom fixings.
Under the same ownership as Volta, Track 61 offers Italian-American fare for lunch and dinner. Two areas in the restaurant, the Sinatra Coffee Lounge and the “Waldorf” event space, can accommodate smaller gatherings of up to 150 guests.
337-380-5348 | brickandspoonrestaurant.com
Crave
662-380-5282 | tracksixtyone.com Crave
The Trusty Diner WAT E R VA L L E Y | 2 0 5 N . M A I N S T.
NEW | 800 COLLEGE HILL ROAD
Fergndan’s
The third location of the Tupelo-based coffee-and-dessert cafe is now catering to Oxford’s sweet tooth with house-made pastries, s’mores pie and the customer favorite skillet cookie.
Fergndan’s wood-fired pizza is now available in a newly remodeled permanent home, but don’t worry — the bright orange food truck will still be parked around town.
Located in a newly restored building downtown, the Trusty serves up American diner-style classics, including house-made hummus and chicken salad, family dinner specials, and freshly made desserts that change daily.
662-638-3344 | skilletcookie.com
662-801-7582 | fergndanspizza.com
662-473-3140 | thetrustydiner.com
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N E W | 176 H I G H WAY 3 0 E .
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R E S T A U R A N T guide
LUNCH
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MODERN AMERICAN
t h a c ke r 5 64 . c o m
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ox fordgri l l eh o us e .com
s outhe r n cr afts tov e andtap.com
tr ac k s ix ty o ne. c o m
3 0 0 0 O L D TAY L O R R O A D , S U I T E C
114 COURTHOUSE SQUARE
705 SISK AVE., SUITE 111
703 N . L A M A R B LV D.
6 6 2 -6 3 8 -3 7 8 0
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DINNER & DRINKS
FROM-SCR ATCH BAGEL S
CREOLE CUISINE & BAR
t h e w i n e b a roxf o rd. com
t hebeagl ebage lcafe .com
r afte r s oxfo rd.co m
ox fo rd c anteen. c o m
4 0 1 S . L A M A R B LV D.
1801 W. JACKSON AV E.
1002 E. JACKSON AVE.
76 6 N . L A M A R B LV D
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FINE DINING
MEXICAN GRILL
12 T YPES OF CHICKEN SAL AD
s t e l l a oxf o rd . c o m
el agaveox ford.com
chicke ns aladch ick.com
my mic helles ox fo rd . c o m
20 8 S . L A M A R B LV D.
2305 W. J ACK S O N AV E ., S U I T E 2 11
1305 MERCHANTS DRIVE
13 0 8 N . L A M A R B LV D., S U I T E 4
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H E AT
WRITTEN BY SARAH McCULLEN
It’s August, the kids are headed back to school, and the dog days have arrived. When the relentless heat and humidity make the return to routine even harder, here are some fresh ideas for keeping cool while soaking up the last bit of summer.
Pirate Adventures
V i s it a S pl a sh Pa d
S p r it z o n C o ol i n g S p ray
When lakes and swimming pools feel like bathwater and a dip seems anything but refreshing, splash pads and water parks are a great alternative. Check out Pirate Adventures in Oxford, James Trussell Park and Patton Lane Park in Batesville, the New Albany Park Commission spray park or one of several in Tupelo.
Essential oils such as peppermint and eucalyptus have cooling properties when spritzed on warm skin. For a fun indoor project, try making this DIY cooling spray: In a 4-ounce spray bottle, mix 2 ounces of distilled water with 2 ounces of witch hazel, and add 5-10 drops of peppermint, eucalyptus and/or lavender oil. Tuck the bottle in your bag, and give yourself a spritz on your neck and pulse points when you need an on-the-go refresher.
S le e p C o ol
M i x a “Mo c k t a i l”
Research shows that keeping cool improves sleep quality, and that better sleep improves school performance. Beat the heat with thermal blackout curtains and cooling bamboo-fiber sheets for energized students on those first back-to-school mornings.
Turn to page 88 for three fresh, icy concoctions that can easily transform from “mocktails” to cocktails. Prepare the basic recipe for the kids, and kick it up a notch for a delicious late-summer libation for grown-ups.
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M a ke a “P up - s ic le” Don’t forget pets. Freeze your dog’s favorite treats or toys in a bowl of water and let him lick to free them.
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I N
GREEK BLESSING BEADS K ATHERINE BECK $48
TRASK LINDSEY SNEAKER HINTON & HINTON $198
SORORIT Y HOUSE PILLOW OLIVE JUICE $48
EYE SHADOW $26 | MINERAL GL A ZE II $48 AMY HEAD
TO M F O R D - J ACQ U ELY N A LOOK AHEAD $522
RUSH SURVIVAL SWEE TS H O L L I ’ S S W E E T T O O T H $ 2 5-$ 5 0
DE TAIL
D O U B L E D E C K E R B U S + P H O N E B O OT H T E A TO W E L S
OLIVE JUICE $22 EACH
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HINTON & HINTON SHARK KNIT HINTON & HINTON $89
GREEK ABSTRACT ART K ATHERINE BECK $50
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VALLE Y
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A L I T T L E P R O G R A M I N WAT E R VA L L E Y I S M A K I N G A B I G C O N T R I B U T I O N TO T H E J O B F O R C E , A S I T I N T R O D U C E S MISSISSIPPI HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES TO CAREERS IN THE INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY INDUSTRY — TUITION-FREE. WRITTEN BY KEITH GORE WISEMAN
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PHOTOGRAPHED BY JOE WORTHEM AND MEGAN WOLFE
At Base Camp Coding Academy, students attend classes for a year to learn full-stack development. Above left: Sean Anthony, director. Above right: Nate Clark, technical director.
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Picture a restored Victorian building, brick and three stories tall, featuring an organic grocery and fashion boutique in its storefronts and a computer programming school above — but not in Seattle, Portland or San Francisco. Much closer to home, Water Valley’s 301 Main St. houses Julia Ray and B.T.C. Grocery on street level, and above, Base Camp Coding Academy. There, a handful of recent high school graduates from North Mississippi spend eight hours a day for 12 months training to become software developers and learning life leadership skills. An extraordinary — and tuition-free — program for students who have been underrepresented in the computer science field, Base Camp was co-founded by Kagan Coughlin and FNC Inc. president Glen Evans as a nonprofit to serve Mississippi’s people and businesses. “Glen runs a company with a couple hundred technically minded people,” said Coughlin. “It’s a challenge to find competent staff. Training bright Mississippi ans is in some ways easier than recruiting talent from other states.” Mississippi’s universities graduate fewer than 200 computer science majors each year, but at the same time, there are more than 1,200 coding and software-design job openings in the state’s public and private sectors, according to Coughlin. In 2015, Evans and Coughlin began assembling support for their idea within FNC Inc.; C Spire; and other businesses and foundations and among individuals to raise $500,000 for a three-year pilot program. In partnership with Northwest Community
College, Base Camp started with 15 students, nominated by their teachers, in the 20162017 session. Its second class graduated in May 2018. So far, 100 percent of the graduates have found employment. “Both of the students I nominated got in and did extremely well, and both are currently gainfully employed with not only salaried positions, but with benefits,” said Virge Cornelius, a math teacher at Lafayette High School. “Both might have quit college after a year with not much to show for it other than student debt, not because they aren’t smart but because of their family situations. BCCA is such a wonderful oppor tunity for students who are willing to put in the work. The folks who conceived of the idea are not only serving these students but serving our community at large.” “I did not know anything about pro gramming or what came with it, but I saw the opportunity to make life better for myself in the long run by going through Base Camp,” said Jo’Tavious Smith, a 2017 Charleston High and 2018 Base Camp graduate. “People should know Base Camp is legit. It is totally free and pays off, but you will put in work and make changes to your personality and character. “Base Camp led to me exploring new things [and] introduced me to more of what is out there in the world,” Smith said. “I think now I am more open to at least giving new things and people a chance.” Becoming a full-stack developer, one comfortable with all the technologies required to create a website, from what a user sees in the browser to the database on the back side of it, requires intense hands-on,
applied instruction. Achieving employment afterward involves career planning, softskills development, and a focus on innovation and self-starting, all of which are included in the Base Camp curriculum. Some students have the opportunity to job-shadow in a technical workplace after graduation. Academy director Sean Anthony said the curriculum at Base Camp is anything but static. “We designed the curriculum using local job postings, university degree requirements, and input from our board working in the software industry,” Anthony said. “It wasn’t until our board members said they would be willing to hire our graduates that we felt satisfied with the initial curriculum. Each year, we seek feedback on technical skills and soft skills from the employers who hire our graduates, and we do the best we can to implement the feedback on a tight turnaround to prepare the students in the next class.” Base Camp’s success in its first year inspired the formation of the Mississippi Coding Academies, a joint public/private initiative formed under the sponsorship of Innovate Mississippi and Mississippi Development Authority. MCA now operates academies in Jackson and Columbus in partnership with Hines Community College and East Mississippi College. Water Valley has joined the effort. “Just as our second class was about to graduate, the city donated a portion of Water Valley Manufacturing Inc., often referred to as the ‘Big Yank’ or ‘Rice-Stix building,’ for Base Camp’s permanent home,” Evans said. “So we will expand and grow.” AUGUS T 2018 | INVITATION OXFORD
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BA S E C A MP CO D IN G AC A D EMY FU ND R A I S IN G CE LE B R ATI O N The opportunities Base Camp Coding Academy provides for these students are made possible through the vision and intense work of the founders, board, sponsors and staff. The academy makes this hard work fun and recruits more support through a local annual fundraising gala. This year’s gala was held in May at Plein Air in Taylor, where supporters celebrated another successful year of changing the lives of some of Mississippi’s youth. The evening kicked off with an alfresco cocktail hour on
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the porch of Grit, with hors d’oeuvres and signature cocktails from Cathead Vodka and live music from Jack Sonni and Friends. Guests later enjoyed a four-course farmto-table dinner with select wine pairings, hosted by chef Nick Reppond and his team. Those who would like to be involved will find sponsorship packages and a monthly newsletter on the Base Camp Coding Academy website. The rewards will come from hearing the impact on Mississippi’s students.
“The most interesting thing about the program is how much I had to change myself,” Smith said. “In comparison to high school it was not that much different, but I do feel like my future is more in my hands. Now that I am done, I plan to take an internship at C-Spire in Ridgeland while taking online classes at Mississippi College.” For more information about the academy, visit basecampcodingacademy.org. To donate, visit crowdrise.com/bcca.
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BEYON D the BA LL
WITH THE START OF A FRESH SCHOOL YEAR,
lessons and practices for kids’ extracurricular activities begin to fill up the family calendar. While many students will choose to sign up for dance, gymnastics, soccer, basketball and baseball, some have found other ways to enjoy competition and develop new skills. These alternatives to more-traditional sports and activities are providing opportunities to form new friendships and to discover hidden talents and strengths. KIDS DISCOVER CHALLENGES AND REWARDS IN THESE ALTERNATIVES TO TRADITIONAL SPORTS. WRITTEN BY BROOKE HUTSON GIBSON
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PHOTOGRAPHED BY JOE WORTHEM
Opposite and this page, left: Lotte Luber with Peter Pan. Right: Addie Langley with Sassy.
H ORS EB ACK
A shared love for horses began early for buddies Lotte Luber and Addie Langley of Oxford. Now age 10, both girls first started riding horses at their grandparents’ homes. In first grade, they both asked their mothers if they could take lessons. After a few years of training, they each got a very special birthday gift: a pony. Lotte got Peter Pan, and Addie got Sassy. Over time, Addie and Lotte have built trust and a strong bond with Sassy and Peter Pan. They have learned responsibility as they
RI DI N G
care for and groom their horses. They have also progressed in lessons, from just trotting to cantering to jumping. Both of them enjoy cantering over the jumps. The girls encourage other kids to consider horseback riding. “Don’t be scared just because they’re big,” Lotte said. “You will learn to have control.” “You might be afraid at first if the horse is frisky, but just keep trying,” Addie said. “It’s made me braver,” Lotte said.
“When I fall down, I just get right back up. Riding has made me brave in other things too.” The girls work with a trainer in lessons and compete in local horse shows. “I don’t care about placing or ribbons,” Lotte said. “I just want to have fun and try my best.” “I don’t care how I place either,” Addie said. “I just want to have the experience, watch other riders and learn from them, and learn from my mistakes.” AUGUS T 2018 | INVITATION OXFORD
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MARTI AL
Ballet just wasn’t for her. Molly Jones, age 10, of Oxford said she initially became interested in karate while watching one of her favorite shows on the Disney Channel, “K.C. Undercover.” “K.C. is always doing kicks and punches,” Molly said. “I love watching her and asked my mom if I could take karate.” Molly has been taking classes through Oxford Karate Club at Oxford Park Commission since June 2017 and has worked hard to earn her green belt. “I was the first of my friends to do it, but I begged my friend Lucy’s mom, and now [Lucy] is doing it too,” Molly said. “Little girls shouldn’t feel like they have to do ballet or other girly things. Karate has taught me a lot. Most of all, I feel like I’m
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ARTS
more confident and stronger.” Sisters Hannah and Claire Kuria, ages 9 and 10 respectively, of Oxford started taking karate classes at Kicks Martial Arts four years ago. “I saw some mean things happening at school and knew I couldn’t defend myself if I ever needed to,” Claire said. “So I asked my dad if I could start karate.” “I was really nervous at first watching all the kids,” Hannah said. “But after a few lessons, I started to get the hang of it, and I didn’t give up.” The girls enjoy competing and the challenge to continually improve their skills. In March, each earned her firstdegree black belt. Although this was a huge accomplishment, they agree their favorite
part about karate is being together. “When I mess up, my sister always encourages me to keep going and get better,” Hannah said. “I most enjoy that I can come here each time, learn to defend myself, and I always have my sister to help me and guide me,” Claire said. Like Molly, the Kuria sisters say that karate has taught them valuable lessons, and they encourage other girls to try it. “You can be more than just what you are,” Claire said. “I now see myself succeeding in something that not all girls [get to] do.” “I’m feeling brave, and I stand up for myself now,” Hannah said. “Never give up, and face your fears. You got this.”
This page: Chess instructor Jeff Bulington (top left). Bulington’s students practice at the Franklin Chess Center in Meadville and travel to compete in tournaments. Opposite page: Sisters Claire and Hannah Kuria (left) have earned first-degree black belts in karate. Molly Jones (right) says girls shouldn’t feel like they have to do “girly” things.
CHES S
In many communities, chess is an extracurricular offering only at schools in higher-income areas or for students in gifted classes. Franklin County, one of the poorest in the state, has been shaking up that stereotype since 2015, when an independent benefactor had a dream to introduce an academic chess program in the rural southwest Mississippi community for all students who were interested. The anonymous donor enlisted Jeff Bulington of Memphis, who has a PhD in curriculum studies, to teach the classes and coordinate the success of the chess center, which is located in Meadville. In the last three years, a few hundred students have taken Bulington’s classes and have become interested in chess. And not just because it’s
fun; chess is a game that gives kids the power to make choices, while the competitions allow them to travel and play kids from other areas of the nation. In chess, age, race and socioeconomic status do not matter. “Skill determines who wins,” Bulington said. “Skill determines who is the stronger player.” Bulington has noticed that the chess program is affecting students in a number of positive ways, including improving their self-image, study habits and work ethic. “A lot of work goes into it, and they’re learning that failure is part of the road to success,” Bulington said. “You want to learn from your mistakes and not repeat them. You can’t just practice [during practice times]. To be really good at something,
you have to practice on your own.” Three students recently competed at a tournament in Chicago. “They won some and lost some,” Bulington said. “It was a very rich experience for us.” The kids said that chess has inspired them in various ways. Sixth-grader Benson Schexnaydre decided to become more physically fit because the four-hour games require endurance. Seventh-grader Parker Wilkinson said it has helped his self-esteem. “Chess has opened my mind to envisioning things from different perspectives,” eighth-grader Everett Mason said. In quiet and under-recognized Franklin County, chess has introduced students to a new world. AUGUS T 2018 | INVITATION OXFORD
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The memory palace technique employs real or imaginary settings to form associations that make it possible to memorize an astonishing amount of information.
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T
Y
MEMO E R H
PA L A C E A WORLD CHAMPION IN MEMORIZATION I S M A K I N G H I S T E C H N I Q U E S AVA I L A B L E TO OT H E R S T H R O U G H A NONPROFIT HE CO-FOUNDED WITH HIS WIFE.
WRITTEN BY CAITLIN ADAMS
Alex Mullen is average in a lot of ways. As a fourth-year medical student, he spends his days in classrooms at the University of Mississippi Medical Center campus and his nights studying with his wife and classmate, Cathy Chen. Weekends are a flurry of studying, reading, meeting up with friends, and watching movies with Chen and their two chow mixes. But there’s something Mullen can do that is far from average. He can memorize the order of a deck of cards in the time it takes most people to tie their shoes: 15.6 seconds, to be exact. “The funny thing is, I struggle with basic memory stuff just like other people,” Mullen said, laughing. “I definitely still lose my keys.” Mullen may misplace his keys from time to time, but there’s little else he forgets. As a three-time world memory champion
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ILLUSTRATIONS BY BL AKE YOUNG
and the first American to claim the title, Mullen is the top-ranked memory athlete in the world. “It’s been kind of a weird journey,” Mullen said, “definitely not something I thought I was capable of or would be doing if you asked me six years ago.” Mullen, a graduate of Oxford High School and Johns Hopkins University, stumbled upon the idea of memorization when he picked up the book “Moonwalking with Einstein: The Art and Science of Remembering Everything” by Joshua Foer. “I just wanted to improve my memory for school,” he said. “I’m pretty normal in that way. Wanting a better memory is a pretty common desire.” What started as reading about memori zation techniques using cards, number streams and facial recognition to study for medical
school turned into a full-time passion that has gained him worldwide notoriety. To date, Mullen holds seven memory world records. He was the first person to memorize a stream of more than 3,000 decimal digits in less than an hour. He competed on and won two game shows, “Superhuman” and “The Brain.” And he was the first to memorize the order of a deck of cards in less than 20 seconds, his proudest accomplish ment to date. “It’s my favorite event, and one I work at every day, no matter what,” he said. Mullen trains daily for at least 30 minutes. He uses a mental exercise called a memory palace to make it easier to digest and memorize information. The memory palace combines visualization techniques and spatial memory in a familiar setting, either real or imaginary, in order to form AUGUS T 2018 | INVITATION OXFORD
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associations that enhance recall. “If you can turn what you want to remember into some kind of picture, it automatically makes it easier for your brain to remember,” he said. It’s a technique that Mullen uses to organize information when he competes in a memory challenge. Memorization of number streams, historic dates, binary digits, names and images are just a few of the events in which contestants compete. Competitions have taken Mullen around the world, from Las Vegas to London, with many of the events taking place in Europe and Asia. Mullen took a year off from medical school last year to dedicate entirely to memory competitions. He competed in Singapore, Indonesia and China and was a contestant on the final season of the Chinese game show “The Brain,” in which he recalled flight paths and departure information to defeat two-time world memory champion Wang Feng. “It was pretty surreal,” Mullen said. The competition circuit is friendly for the most part, with roughly 50 top competitors who travel to and compete in the same
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PHOTO COURTESY OF ALEX MULLEN AND CATHY CHEN
A diagram showing the UM campus as a memory palace for recalling the parts of the neuron. Below: Alex Mullen and his wife, Cathy Chen.
events. Although some competitions offer prize money, Mullen says the awards are generally small amounts that are not enough to establish a career. Therefore, camaraderie is strong. “People are generally willing to talk and share their experiences with training,” Mullen said. “It’s fun to learn from each other.”
It was this culture of knowledge-sharing that led Mullen and Chen to found Mullen Memory, a nonprofit educational resource. The duo, who used the memory techniques in their medical school studies, wanted to share their knowledge to help others succeed as well. “We thought, now’s the time to make it work — to sink or swim,” Mullen said. Mullen and Chen have taught memory techniques through speaking engagements in classrooms and a co-authored chapter in “First Aid for the USMLE Step 1,” a testprep book for medical students. But now that medical school fills their schedules, they focus on teaching online. Their website hosts videos, blog posts and plenty of articles targeted toward studying science and languages, and their best memory tips and tricks. All the content is free to viewers. “It was a no-brainer for us,” Mullen said of providing the free education techniques. “I learned from reading from someone else, so we wanted to help others do the same.” For more on Mullen’s techniques andwww study hacks visit mullenmemory.com.
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WHO’S NEW AT INVITATION OXFORD
Hol ly Vol lo r C re at ive D i re c to r After graduat ing from Ole Miss in 2007 with a B.A., Holly dove into the world of graphic design, spe cial izing in branding design, market ing materials and digital illustration. In 2015, she launched her own full-service graphic design studio, Whisper Design Co. For the last 11 years, Holly has balanced her freelance career with being a wife to her husband, Matt, and raising their three children, Kate, Luke and Gabe. While she may love a relaxing trip to the beach, she lives and breathes design.
S a ra h Mc C u l le n S o c i a l Me d i a C o o rd i n ato r & E d ito r i a l A s s i s t a nt Sarah, who is an Oxford native, graduated in May 2018 with a B.A.J. from Ole Miss. She has managed social media for local busi nesses and for na tional organizations such as Operation Christmas Child. Growing up, Sarah flipped through every issue of Invitation Oxford, fueling her interest in lifestyle writing and photography at an early age. Sarah enjoys baking, painting and spending time at Pinelake Church, where she leads a high-school girls group.
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BEAUTIFUL PHILIP LORIA’S INSECT PHOTOS INSPIRE AWE, WRITTEN BY ALLISON ESTES
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not ew.
PHOTOGRAPHED BY PHILIP LORIA
Think insects are “ew”? Take a closer look at the smiling face of a dragonfly or the delicate and harmless good news bee, and you might begin to think differently. Dr. Philip Loria got his start in photography working on his high school yearbook. He and his wife live just south of Oxford, on 12 acres with a large flower garden, a pond and a lake. Most of these photos were taken in the garden or at the edge of the lake, using a digital SLR camera and a macro lens.
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BUGS
Pondhawk dragonfly. Above left: The snowberry clearwing moth (a.k.a. hummingbird or bumblebee moth) mimics a bee to avoid predators. Above right: The hover fly (a.k.a. good news bee) looks like a bee and feeds on nectar but will not sting. Some say it’s good luck if you can get one to land on you. Opposite: Pennant dragonfly. Dragonflies eat mosquitoes.
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Dr. Loria's Tips
FOR CAPTURING IMAGES OF THE BEAUTIFUL BUGS IN YO U R O W N B A C K YA R D
Early mornings are best. The light can be tricky, but it's usually cooler and the bugs are not as quick to fly off. Never wear fragrance. It can cause some stinging insects to take an interest in you. Be still and wait. Bring a stool if you like, find a comfortable spot near a pond, garden or bird feeder and settle in. If you have to move, move slowly. Once you become part of the local scene, birds and bugs will get quite close to you. Chasing bugs is rarely successful. Before you try macro (close-up photography) it's best to have good knowledge of F stops and depth of field (DOF). The F stop regulates how much light the lens allows in, and the DOF relates to what's in focus. Many folks try to get too close to the subject, resulting in very little of the subject being in focus. It's much better to back up a bit and crop the shot later. Given a choice between an expensive camera body or an expensive lens, I will always pick the better lens.
A spider web sparkles after a rain. Above: Eastern tiger swallowtail butterfly. Right: Yellowtail skimmer dragonfly.
“
Insects make the world go ’round.
W I T H O U T B E E S TO P O L L I N AT E T H E C R O P S , W E WO U L D N’ T H AV E F O O D. T H E R E A R E 10,000,000,000,000,000,000 INSECTS IN THE WORLD, OR ABOUT A BILLION FOR E V E R Y P E R S O N O N T H E E A R T H ." — P H I L I P L O R I A
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Just Give Us a Sign. We’ll Work to SELL Your Home!
OXFORD | TUPELO 2092 Old Taylor Rd. Oxford, 662.234.5344 210 East Main St. Tupelo, 662.842.3844 tmhomes.com AUGUS T 2018 | INVITATION OXFORD
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FIRECR ACKER
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PHOTOGRAPHED BY MEGAN WOLFE
The sixth annual Firecracker Bash was held June 28 at The Lyric Oxford. The fundraiser for the program Leap Frog included a live performance by the Soul Shockers, a silent auction and dinner. Dan and Leigh Lowery were crowned Mr. and Mrs. America. 1
View more photos at invitationoxford.com.
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1. Teresa Adams, Brooke Fly-Spears, Amber Gray and Amanda Knight 2. Ellen Chism and Cathy Helmert 3. Dan and Leigh Lowery 4. Martha Kelly, Marty Dunbar, Barbara Liddon and Judy Trott 5. Sara and Brian Platt 6. Breck Howard, Jeff Rogers, Jerry Braxton and Gerel Allen 7. Jody and Julia Burnett 8. Sarah J. Liddy and Tim Bisenius 9. Veneshia Gillespie and Jeffrey Stewart
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BA SE C A MP CODING AC ADEMY PHOTOGRAPHED BY MEGAN WOLFE
Base Camp Coding Academy held a fund raiser on May 20. The event included a cocktail hour, live music from Jack Sonni and Friends and a four-course farm-totable dinner with select wine pairings at Grit Restaurant in Taylor. 1
View more photos at invitationoxford.com.
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1. Carla and Richard Lewis 2. Jack Nichols with Sarah and John Marsalis 3. Sarah Frances and John Hardy with Medora and Ben Justus 4. Riley Mueller with Taylor Campbell 5. Alexe van Beuren and Kagan Coughlin 6. Mike and Allison James with Lauren and Adam Grace 7. Heather and Luke Harris
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CLUB
LUAU
PHOTOGRAPHED BY MEGAN WOLFE
The Oxford Newcomers and Friends Club Hawaiian Luau was held May 15 at Foxfire Ranch. The annual end-of-year party included live music and food.
View more photos at invitationoxford.com.
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1. Joanne Wilkinson, Judy Childress and Mark Wilkinson 2. Carol Champion and Linda Smith 3. Bonnie Siebert, Anita Kimery, Judy Owen, Michelle Harvey, Richard Muller and Don Mason 4. Becky and Don Caudele 5. Susan Hayman and Nancy Dellinger 6. David and Stephanie Stevens with Myrna and Wes Tell 7. Bill Bailey, Carol Jo Barnes, Anita Wallace and Barbara Bailey
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C ARPE T
G AL A
PHOTOGRAPHED BY MEGAN WOLFE
The Oxford-Lafayette County Chamber of Commerce held its fourth annual Red Carpet Gala May 17 at Castle Hill. The event was presented by Cannon Motors of Mississippi and featured live music and food tasting stations by local chefs. 1
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1. Paul and Dot Hale with Rita and Bob Vasilyev 2. Dominique Williams, Robin Clayton and Kristi Boxx 3. Jeff and Berry Johnson 4. Cherie Maynard with Andy and Kate Field and Jon Maynard 5. Miele and Brandon Hudspeth 6. Laverna Hodges, Danica Foreman and Allen Jones 7. Lexi Burt, Robin Melton and Kimberly McCormick 8. Jay and Bhakti Patel 9. Rush and Hannah Mayo
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SPL A SH
’ N ’
DA SH
5K
PHOTOGRAPHED BY JESSICA RICHARDSON
Covalent Staffing hosted the fourth annual Splash’n’Dash 5K on June 9 at Avent Park. The free, family-friendly race featured Super Soakers during the route and a waterfall at the finish line. 1
View more photos at invitationoxford.com.
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1. Harrison and Judy Hopper with Kevin Whitney Jr. 2. Destiny Jones and Elizabeth Rudd 3. Jim and Li Ming Cizdziel 4. Colton and Ethan Knight 5. Henry, Danny and Rosie Klimetz 6. Jonathan and Gabe Martz 7. Matt Ball and Josh Samuels 8. Kate and Harry Embry 9. Channing Green and Nichole Baker 10. Richard Raspet and Wendy Garrison
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BANQUE T
PHOTOGRAPHED BY MEGAN WOLFE
Tobby Tubby Missionary Baptist Church held a Spring Youth Banquet June 2. The event included food, music and fellowship.
View more photos at invitationoxford.com.
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1. Daphne Mathis, Kentavius Flemons and Iesha Richardson 2. Gwen King, Vivian Price and Shirley Pegues 3. Walter Martinera and Leslie Boling 4. Eulita Mack and Angel Ramsey 5. Caroline Bell with Krystal and Tracy Wren 6. Xaky Lan Johnson, Ron Biggs and Chris Bush 7. Brittany Mathis, Essie Hubbard, Mary Howard and Faristene Webb 8. Brenda Guzman and Edward Richardson
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TAIL S
PHOTOGRAPHED BY SARAH MCCULLEN
Oxford-Ole Miss Rotary Club hosted the seventh annual Tunes & Tails May 20 at the Armory Pavilion. The event included live music, unlimited food and drinks, and a kids activity zone. Proceeds will benefit Holding Hands Resale Shop. 1
View more photos at invitationoxford.com.
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1. Hannah, Bernard and Claire Kariuki 2. John Melton, Brian Whisenant and Andrew George 3. Mark and Josette Nelson with Darrell Harrelson 4. Lakynn Hillhouse and Dylan King 5. Davenport Kaigler and Charlotte Pannel 6. Olga, Timbora, Tamara and Temir Kalmykova 7. Michael Cormack, Port Kaigler and Jonathan Mattox
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FESTIVAL
PHOTOGRAPHED BY SARAH MCCULLEN
The Oxford Bourbon Festival was held May 18-20 at various locations. The event included celebrity chef dinners, bourbon tastings, an auction and live music. All proceeds benefit Move on Up Mississippi. 1
View more photos at invitationoxford.com.
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1. John Currence with Linda and Rathead Riley 2. Alex and Newt Rayburn and Nature Humphries 3. Quinn Carrell, Robert Martin and Griffin Meister 4. Lester and Cathy Williamson 5. Carolyn Lassen, Ashley Baril, Ivy McLellan and Maddie Manansala 6. Kim Hewell and Norm Scarborough with Neal and Bryan Clapper 7. Wayne Gray, Eleanor Green and Shirley Gray
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BOURBON
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8. Laura Ellen and John Heniken 9. Cole Ellis and Stewart Robinson 10. Noelle Billings and Will Nowell 11. Chase and Miriam Pittman 12. Amy and Matt Bell 13. Christopher Sherman and Mary Catherine McClinton
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CALENDAR
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NOTEWORTHY
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IN SEASON
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OPD
FE ATURES
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EVENTS
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FUN
RECIPE
DAY
PHOTOGRAPHED BY SARAH MCCULLEN
OPD held its fifth annual Fun Day June 30 at the Oxford Police Department. The event included meeting the Mounted Patrol, an obstacle course with the SWAT team, hay rides, children’s activities and refreshments. 1
View more photos at invitationoxford.com.
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1. Faith, Joy, Donovan and LaKisha Walton 2. Anita Burt and Shantara Malone 3. Krista, Kiley and Will Nicholas 4. Temple, Robert and Sandra Northern 5. Kandi Beavers and Art Watts 6. Jalesia McKinney and Atziri Ortiz 7. Emil, Tiffany and Kandyce Anderson 8. Vince, Jennifer and Abe Samuels 9. Jeffrey Dukes and Joey East 10. John and Trey Rogers
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INVITATION OXFORD | AUGUS T 2018
AUGUS T 2018 | INVITATION OXFORD
77
CALENDAR
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NOTEWORTHY
OLE
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IN SEASON
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MISS
FE ATURES
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EVENTS
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RECIPE
ORIENTATION
PHOTOGRAPHED BY SARAH MCCULLEN
An orientation for incoming University of Mississippi freshmen was held June 28-29 at various locations on campus. The event included campus tours, networking activities, and panel discussions for students and parents. 1
View more photos at invitationoxford.com.
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1. Francene Gayle and Schara Davis 2. Christy Giglio, Nicholas Bovenzi and Sam Giglio 3. Crystal and Alexus Smith 4. Harrison McKinnis, Jordan Zarzaur and Cade Slaughter 5. Caroline and Paul Kasem 6. Mark and Margaret Odom 7. Reagan Husband with Pauline and Dominique Smith 8. Reed and Mary Grindstaff 9. Tommy Steis and Jacob Parker
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INVITATION OXFORD | AUGUS T 2018
9
GOODNIGHT
M ARKE T
PHOTOGRAPHED BY SARAH MCCULLEN
Goodnight Market was held July 12 at the Armory Pavilion. The family-friendly evening event featured arts vendors, activities from community groups, live music and food.
1
View more photos at invitationoxford.com.
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1. Susan Rose and Pam Locke 2. Tabish Mehraj, Mir Tahir Maqbool and Adal Tahir 3. Michelle Harvey and Claudia Winstead with Nan and Webre Barlow and Lisa Ross 4. Brittany and Barron Dudley 5. Lazarrus Miller and Zsa’Xhani Davis 6. Kaitlyn Passmore and Cassidy Broadaway 7. Mary Lynn Bagley, Bennett Worthy and Freddie Bagley 8. Hilary, Josh and Hazel Howell 9. Karen Irby, Cherry Watkins and Irene Henegar 10. Brady Bramlett and Abby Wilson
AUGUS T 2018 | INVITATION OXFORD
79
CALENDAR
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NOTEWORTHY
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IN SEASON
LE AGUE
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OF
FE ATURES
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EVENTS
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RECIPE
WOMEN
VOTERS
PHOTOGRAPHED BY SARAH MCCULLEN
The League of Women Voters Oxford/North Mississippi hosted its state council meeting May 18-19 at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church. The event included a reception and panel discussions and featured keynote speaker Rep. Jay Hughes. 1
View more photos at invitationoxford.com.
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1. Rosemary Lassiter, Jan Watson and Barbara Powell 2. Elaine Talbot and Mary Ann Everett 3. Pat Cuza and Carol Andersen 4. Dianne Fergusson and Robyn Tannehill 5. Cheryl Resetarits, Barbara Phillips and Ann Abadie 6. Laura Arper and Evelyn Smith 7. Wendy Goldberg and Leisa McElreath
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INVITATION OXFORD | AUGUS T 2018
7
& INTERIORS
Fine Jewelry I Accessories I Art I Bridal I Gifts 800 College Hill Rd. Suite 6102 • 662-371-1233
AUGUS T 2018 | INVITATION OXFORD
81
CALENDAR
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NOTEWORTHY
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IN SEASON
MUT TS
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FE ATURES
AT
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EVENTS
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THE
RECIPE
M ARINA
PHOTOGRAPHED BY JESSICA RICHARDSON
Mutts at the Marina was held on June 23 at Rafters on the Water at Sardis Lake Marina. The pet-themed fundraiser featured games, boat rides and food and drink specials. Proceeds will benefit Mississippi Underdog Transport Team. 1
View more photos at invitationoxford.com.
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1. Katie Muldoon and Moni and Amelia Simpson with Gus 2. Jim and Sue McKinney with Dixie and Rebel 3. Anita and Everette Hitt with Alfalfa and Queenie 4. Emma Finley with Jaxon May and Casey Kilburg with Daisy 5. Brandon and Caitlin Stamper with Copper and Penny 6. Peyton Smeathern and Baird Whichard with Rose 7. Sandra Tamboli with Nikki
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INVITATION OXFORD | AUGUS T 2018
7
MUT TS
AT
THE
M ARINA
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8. Misti Myhand and Olivia Adkins with Paisley 9. Gretchen Williams with West 10. Justine Retnam with Elle and Sarah Beker with Marty 11. Samantha Cote and Hendrix 12. Brian Yarborough and Brittany Naron with Bailey 13. Michael Smith with Heidi 14. Belinda Buddrus with Dixie and Cassie Veasey with Flower
AUGUS T 2018 | INVITATION OXFORD
83
CALENDAR
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NOTEWORTHY
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IN SEASON
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OUT
FE ATURES
&
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EVENTS
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RECIPE
ABOUT
VIEW MORE PHOTOS AT INVITATIONOXFORD.COM
C RY E - L E I K E F R E E SNOWC ON E DAY
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BA P T I S T HO S P I TA L BA BY FA I R
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G I V I NG G R AC E
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BR IC K & S P O ON TA S T I NG E V E N T
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SU T H E R N OA S I S S PA F I F T H A N N I V E R SA RY
8 1. Delaney, Beverly and Dayton Moorehead 2. Addison Wright, William Reeves and Tanner Wright 3. Claire Hodge with Lesley, Hayden and Haley Cannada 4. Kobie Wells and Jamille Hill-Bernard 5. Jeanne Lippincott and Nathan Mullins 6. Ansley and Whitney Byars 7. Joanne Zuidema and Laura McCullen 8. Darren, Kayla, Colby, Addison and Marley Stafford 9. Debbie Landolt, Suthern Dickinson and Joshua Johnson
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INVITATION OXFORD | AUGUS T 2018
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OUT
&
ABOUT
VIEW MORE PHOTOS AT INVITATIONOXFORD.COM
C H A M BE R / E DF A N N UA L LU NC H EON
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F R E S H PA I N T A RT I S T R EC E P T ION
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TODDL E R T I M E A N D P U P P ET S HOW
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L .O.U. FOU RT H OF J U LY C E L E BR AT ION
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1. Sheritha Williams and Triston Ladner 2. Lexi Worth, Lena Schnider and Melissa Moffett 3. Daniel Tackett, Lisa Stout and Tim Tackett 4. Kelly Adkins, Zach Fields and Rachel McCaslin 5. Joshua, Philip and Julia Jackson 6. Taneka Tyson, Nancy Opalko and Meridith Wulf 7. Gabriella, Peggie, and Alexandria Wilson with Natalie, Teresa and Angie Getze 8. Ani Meeks, Marcus and Kensley Wilson, Hayden Meeks, and Kayleb Hilliard 9. Jon Cayce Jones, Dewey Wells, Esteban Bishop and Jeanette Wells
AUGUS T 2018 | INVITATION OXFORD
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INVITATION OXFORD | AUGUS T 2018
MISSISSIPPI’S BEST
AUGUS T 2018 | INVITATION OXFORD
87
CALENDAR
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NOTEWORTHY
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IN SEASON
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FE ATURES
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EVENTS
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RECIPE
M O C K T A I L S to C O C K T A I L S RECIPES BY KIMME HARGROVE
GRAPEFRUIT CHILLER 2 cups grapefruit juice, chilled ¼ cup simple syrup, chilled 12 ounces lemon-lime soda, chilled 4 teaspoons grenadine, chilled
Divide grapefruit juice evenly among 4 champagne glasses. Divide simple syrup evenly among glasses; top with soda and grenadine, being careful not to mix, for an ombré effect. To make a cocktail, replace soda with prosecco or champagne.
SIMPLE SYRUP 1 cup water 1 cup sugar
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INVITATION OXFORD | AUGUS T 2018
BL ACKBERRY MOJITO
CHERRY LIMEADE
10 mint leaves Juice from 1 lime 12 fresh blackberries 6 ounces simple syrup 8 ounces club soda Divide mint, lime juice and blackberries evenly among 4 glasses, and muddle together. Divide simple syrup evenly among glasses. Pour 2 ounces club soda over each and stir. Fill glasses with ice and serve. To make a cocktail, add 1 ounce white rum to each serving.
4 cups lemon-lime soda 4 ounces grenadine Juice from 1 lime Maraschino cherries Combine soda, grenadine and lime juice. Pour over ice; garnish with cherries. To make a cocktail, add 1 ounce white rum or vodka to each serving.
Heat water and sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, just until sugar has dissolved. Remove from heat and allow to cool. Store in refrigerator. Grenadine is available bottled, or make your own without the colorings and preservatives: Follow the recipe for Simple Syrup, but use pomegranate juice instead of water, and cook until slightly thickened.