AUGUST 2016
Mark C. Cleary
Blake Cannon
Alison Alger
Lee Pittman
Markccleary@gmail.com
blake@oxfordvip.com
alisonmalger@gmail.com
lee.pittman1@gmail.com
(713) 303-8924
(662) 380-7144
(662) 832-1697
(662) 645-3695
#1 Re/Max Team in MS in 2014 & 2015
LEGACY R EALT Y
Starting in the mid $300,000’s Contact Mark Cleary (713) 303-8924
1583 Buchanan
4435 Sardis Lake Dr.
• Easy walk to square • 4 BR/4.5 bath
• Beautiful Lake View • 107 Acres, Large Lake
$750,000
$450,000
The Belmont
7003 Macdui (Lot 64 Highlands)
1413 South Lamar
Measuring in at just under 1 mile from campus, 800 Park includes luxury features like gas fireplaces, 10 foot ceilings and heart pine floors. Professionally designed, each of the 4 floor plans are one level and have private screened in porches overlooking Pat Lamar Park and Davidson Creek. There is also a pet park that will be private to the 800 Park owners. The 800 Park development has plans to include some specialty retail shops, as well.
Contact Mark Cleary (713) 303-8924
• 70 acre bass lake
• Custom Family Home
$525,000 Only 4 Units Remaining
at 1769 East Jackson
$1,910,000
Estimated Restoration Completion Summer 2016
Historic Downtown Oxford Restoration. 4 bedrooms 4.5 bathrooms, a formal living and dining room, superb office, 2 real wood burning fireplaces, 3 porches, boasting a gorgeous screened in porch on approximately an acre corner lot on South Lamar. This once in a lifetime opportunity is finished out with top of the line finishes throughout orchestrated by a professional design team. Come get involved and make this masterpiece your piece of Oxford History.
$499,000 244 CR 303
The Hamlet
129 Sivley • Walk to the Square! • 5 BR/4 Bath • 3900 square feet • Wrought iron courtyard w/ gate • Wolf Subzero show home • Marvin doors/windows show home
Starting in the Mid $300’s •4 Bed 4.5 Bath w/ Top Notch Finishes •Garages Available
621 Park Drive • Completely Custom Built • 1.5 Acre Lot in Downtown Oxford • Heated Master Bath Floor • Huge Walk-In His/Her Closets
$799,000
71 CR 141 •5 Bed 4 1/2 Bath •Saltwater Pool • 6.3 Acres • Large Shop and RV Parking
$649,000
LEGACY R EALT Y
Esplanade Ridge #102 • Pristine Condition • Upgraded Corner/End Unit • Large Open Living Area
$1,395,000
416 Andalusia •4 Bed 3 Bath •City Schools •Two - Way Fireplace •Access to Highlands Lake
$429,999
517 Lee Cove
313 CR 309
•3 Bed 3.5 Bath •Gated Community •Large Spacious Deck •Serene Quiet Location
•Beautiful 62.76 acre tract •Two ponds •Just minutes to the Jackson/Hwy 6 intersection
$169,900
$558,742
(Old Taylor Rd) •Almost 16 acres • 4 BR/3 Bath, 3150sf • gunite pool • Beautifully manicured • Huge custom shop • close to town
$214,500
600 Centerpointe Cove •4 Bed 3.5 Bath • Large Living Room •Beautiful Sparkling Pool •Large Fenced-In Yard
$367,000
Search the entire Oxford Market at www.MarkClearyOxford.com and www.OxfordMSHomes.net. 662.234.5621 1923 University Ave Oxford, MS 38655. Each office independently owned and operated. All information deemed reliable but is not guaranteed and subject to change without notice.
$949,000
7005 Bluff Lane •4 Bed 4 Bath •3 Covered Porches •8 Parking Bays •Access to Goose Creek Tennis Club
$649,000
August 2016 | INVITATION OXFORD
9
10
INVITATION OXFORD | August 2016
August 2016 | INVITATION OXFORD
11
AUGUST 2016
58 AUGUST 2016
ON THE COVER Artist Maddie Beck illustrated this month’s back to school-themed cover. Beck is from Omaha, Nebraska, and is a student at the University of Mississippi.
IN EVERY ISSUE 14
Letter From the Publisher
16
What’s Happening
20
Meet the Cover Artist
22
Community Corner
24
In Season: Watermelon
98
Out and About
104
I Am Oxford
ANNOUNCEMENTS
FEATURES
EVENTS
44 When I Grow Up
26
Summer Sunset Concert Series
The future looks bright for these children who are getting early starts on their dream jobs.
28
Batesville Springfest
30
Lafayette Spring Concert
53 Fit Kids
32
O.F.F. Seersucker Shakedown
These local health programs are helping the children of Lafayette County and the surrounding area stay fit and happy.
34
Youth Fishing Rodeo
36
LMS Drama Class Play
38
Newcomers Club Party
40
Oxford Academy of Dance Arts
42
Destination Oxford Car Show
74 No Place Like Home
78
Juneteenth Festival
Gay Graeber and Jack Stubbs enjoy traveling the world, but their favorite place is at home in Oxford surrounded by their art collection and vacation mementos.
82
Tracks of Art Festival
84
Firecracker Bash
86
Willie Price Lab School Carnival
88
COC/EDF Luncheon and Gala
90
Fourth of July Celebrations
58 Natural Wonders Take a late-summer road trip and experience the beauty of nature in the Magnolia State.
18
McKinney & Davis
92
Splash ’n Dash 5K
20
Lucy Adair Suber
94
Tunes and Tails
96
Piano Duet Contest
12
INVITATION OXFORD | August 2016
44
53
74
August 2016 | INVITATION OXFORD
13
THE PUBLISHER
INVITATION Oxford publishers
Phil and Rachel West
editorial
EDITOR IN CHIEF Lena Anderson CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Emily Welly EVENTS EDITOR Mary Moreton CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Sunny Young Baker Meaghin Burke Melanie Crownover Kate Lechler Ginny McCarley Toni Overby EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Katherine Henson COPY EDITOR Kate Johnson
advertising
T
his month is significant for my family. At our house, it’s not back to school – it is the first day of school. Our 5-year-old daughter heads to kindergarten next week. I will most likely cry on Mary Katherine’s first day, but I keep reminding myself that her best years are ahead of her. On Aug. 8, she’ll begin her formal education, learn new responsibilities and establish meaningful friendships. I was reminded of these lessons this summer when I attended my 20th high school reunion and spent time with some of the friends I first met in kindergarten. We told stories, shared our victories and defeats, and laughed until our cheeks ached. It’s hard to believe that in just a few short days, my daughter will meet her own kindergarten friends and begin her journey full of fun experiences and life lessons that will shape her future. Invitation Oxford explores the potential futures of some other local children on page 44 with our story, “When I Grow Up.” These
14
INVITATION OXFORD | August 2016
children, ages 3 to 17, are already thinking about their dream jobs as teachers, chefs or firefighters. And on page 53, read about local programs that are committed to the health of children. From an initiative to give students more free playtime to a summer camp with gardening and cooking classes, these organizations are focused on making Lafayette County children healthy. Change can be hard. While our new routine at home will mean earlier mornings and more extended time away from each other, I am excited for Mary Katherine’s new adventures. With the dedication and excellent work of the people in the Oxford and Lafayette County schools, her future looks bright.
ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS Jennifer Bolton Alise M. Emerson Leigh Lowery Lynn McElreath Stacey Raper Moni Simpson Whitney Worsham
art
CREATIVE DIRECTOR Hallie Thomas STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Joe Worthem ADVERTISING DESIGNERS Becca Bailey Zach Fields CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Joey Brent Michaela Cooper
production
PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Emily Suber
office
BUSINESS MANAGER Hollie Hilliard COMPTROLLER Julie Clark DISTRIBUTION Donald Courtney Brian Hilliard MAIN OFFICE (662) 234-4008 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 diverse individuals and organizations who make up north Mississippi and strives to be an inclusive representation of all members of our community.
PLEASE RECYCLE THIS MAGAZINE
RACHEL M. WEST, PUBLISHER
August 2016 | INVITATION OXFORD
15
AUGUST 2016
The ConnectLOU initiative seeks to increase access to reliable high-speed broadband in the Lafayette County, Oxford and University of Mississippi community. To be a part of the campaign to bring fiber internet to the area, go to connectlou.org.
Back to School 8/5 Lafayette County School District gocommodores.org 8/8 Oxford School District oxfordsd.org 8/22 University of Mississippi olemiss.edu
Every Tuesday Oxford City Market A weekly farmers market featuring fresh local produce, handmade products and live entertainment. Cash, credit cards and EBT cards accepted. Tuesdays 3-6:30 p.m., Community Pavilion on University Ave.
8/5
First Friday Sketch Day Stop by the University of Mississippi Museum and check out the new gallery sketching stools provided by the Lafayette Oxford Foundation for Tomorrow (LOFT). Explore the galleries with a free sketch session for all skill levels. Begins at 10 a.m., no charge.
Local artist Jonathan Kent Adams has painted individual portraits of each victim who died in the Orlando shooting on June 12. He shared each portrait along with a short bio of the person’s life online. To view his project, follow jonathan_kent_adams on Instagram, or find him on Facebook.
8/18
8/26
Lafayette Oxford Foundation for Tomorrow (LOFT) will host Night for Nonprofits at the Powerhouse from 6 to 9 p.m., featuring public presentations of grant proposals. For more information, visit loftms.org.
Actor, author and comedian Lewis Black performs his show The Emperor’s New Clothes: The Naked Truth. 7:30 p.m., the Ford Center Tickets $40 and (students) $20 fordcenter.org
Night for Nonprofits LOFT Event
8/19
Jacqueline Woodson Reading
New Restaurant Openings
The acclaimed New York Times best-selling author and National Book Award winner reads from her first adult novel in 20 years, Another Brooklyn. 5 p.m., Off Square Books, squarebooks.com
Saint Leo is serving authentic wood-fired Italian cooking. Located at 1101 Jackson Ave. E. on the Square. Visit eatsaintleo.com. Grit is located in Taylor and features sophisticated Southern cuisine. Visit grittaylor.com. Green Roof Lounge is located on the rooftop of the Courtyard Hotel on Jackson Avenue East and specializes in craft cocktails and small plates. Find them on Facebook. Holli’s Sweet Tooth has reopened at its new location on the Square at 265 N. Lamar Ave., near Highpoint Coffee.
8/11-14
8/20
The third annual Art-er Limits Fringe Festival allows local artists to share their work with a series of events and exhibits. For more information, visit oxfordfringefest.com.
The annual fundraiser features food and art demonstrations by Jason Bouldin, Matt Long and Dwayne Ingram. 10 a.m., the Powerhouse
The Art-er Limits Fringe Festival
16
INVITATION OXFORD | August 2016
Lewis Black
Doors of Hope Summer Bounty
Rebels in Rio The University of Mississippi will be represented in a big way at the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, with nine Ole Miss Rebels competing. The group, made up of both current and previous students and coaches, has made its mark already by shattering the school’s record for number of athletes at the Olympics, with only two participating in the 1988, 1992 and 2012 games. Competing in track and field are Gwen Berry, USA (women’s hammer throw); Antwon Hicks, Nigeria (men’s 110-meter hurdles); Sam Kendricks, USA (men’s pole vault); Brittney Reese, USA (women’s long jump); Ricky Robertson, USA (men’s high jump); Raven Saunders, USA (women’s shot put); and Khadijah Suleman, Nigeria (4x100 relay); with current Ole Miss track-and-field head coach Connie Price-Smith serving as the women’s head coach for Team USA. Additional Rebels at the games include Anthony Perez, Venezuela (men’s basketball), and Rafa Souza, Brazil (women’s soccer). Former Ole Miss men’s tennis player Robbye Poole will serve as tennis star Serena Williams’ hitting partner as she competes for Team USA. The games commence on Aug. 5 with opening ceremonies and will run through Aug. 21. For more information, visit rio2016 .com, and follow Ole Miss Track on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. August 2016 | INVITATION OXFORD
17
PHOTOGRAPHED BY RYAN L. MARTIN
STEPHANIE J. McKINNEY & GORDON DAVIS JR.
r. and Mrs. Earl and Marilyn McKinney of Collierville, Tennessee, are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter, Stephanie J. McKinney, to Gordon Davis Jr., son of Mr. Gordon Davis Sr. and Ms. Lorraine Davis of Phoenix. Stephanie is a graduate of the University of Memphis with a bachelor’s degree in science and business administration with a concentration in finance and accounting. She currently resides in Dallas and is employed by Health Care Services Corporation as a senior analytics and reporting analyst. Gordon is a graduate of the University of Arizona with a bachelor’s degree in mathematics. He has achieved the ASA designation from the Society of Actuaries and is currently pursuing the FSA designation. He also resides in Dallas and is employed by Health Care Services Corporation as a lead actuarial associate. The couple will exchange vows in Memphis, Tennessee, on Sept. 10, 2016.
18
INVITATION OXFORD | August 2016
August 2016 | INVITATION OXFORD
19
AUGUST 2016
Lucy Adair Suber
MADDIE BECK, from Omaha, Nebraska,
Born May 1, 2016 • 6 lbs. 13 oz. Welcomed with Love by Christopher, Emily & Luke (2) 20
INVITATION OXFORD | August 2016
is an integrated marketing and communications major at the University of Mississippi with a passion for drawing and illustrating. Along with designing T-shirts for The Sip, her most recent works are inspired by Asian cityscapes and created with pen and ink on Bristol paper. She plans to graduate in May 2018 and hopes to make a career as a children’s book illustrator.
Introducing Oxford’s most exciting Spring, a time for renewal, new life.... new development… why not welcome the season in a new home! Oxford Condominiums
408 Andalusia
4Bed/3.5Bath Attention to all details! This charming home has everything you want with maintenance-free living.
Saint Loup
908 Highpointe 4Bed/4Bath Great deal in Highpointe! This condo is in great condition and features 3 bedrooms with 3 baths.
401 Bickerstaff #10 3Bed/3Bath You will not get closer to the Ole Miss campus in such a well planned condominium!
stonebridge
3Bed/2Bath Such a well planned community of carefree living. Units are selling as quickly as they are built.
20 SOLD
708 Ridgewood Manor
4 Bed/ 2.5 Bath Southern charm at it’s best! Close to parks, schools, and downtown!
The Bernay
Located within the country Club of Oxford Cross Creek
One of Oxford’s best kept secrets! Very conveniently located and several great new plans to be built to your liking.
612 Centerpointe
4Bed/4.5Bath Beautiful Craftsman style home in popular Northpointe Subdivision. Inviting fireplace with exposed brick and open entertaining plan.
Wellsgate
13 CR (Levee Road) 3Bed/1.5Bath Charming cottage located on a tree covered lot with a convenient location. Great investment property!
The Brie
2202 Longspur Pointe 4Bed/3.5Bath
Grandiose southern estate home located in Wellsgate subdivision. This home has it all!
810 Brentwood Cove
Mature Crepe Myrtles line the entrance to this private estate home complete with a pool!
The Talaud
18007 Country wood Cove
Splendid home on a quiet cul-de-sac in Wellsgate! This home has a pool, beautiful kitchen! Everything you want!
236 St. Andrews Circle
You have waited for this address! Absolutely wonderful neighborhood!
300 Winner’s Circle
GRAND OAKS
313 Fox hollow cove
This 35 home development has panoramic golf course and aquatic views. With 10 timeless Acadia style plans to choose from and custom finishes to select, buyers can tailorINGtheir new home to their exact needs. PEND We invite you to visit our website today and watch our progress!
4Bed/3.5Bath Steeplechase is the location of this soon to be constructed dream home.
1605 Jackson Ave #4 4 Bed/3.5 Bath Just a minutes’ walk to the SQUARE!!
4Bed/3Bath Taylor-Greene is the location for this well-planned home. So many great features!
The Laval
420 Deer Run
waterstoneofoxford.com
5Bed/3Bath Space galore! This home was built by the builder for his family to reside-well done!
Jamey Leggitt
Jamey Leggitt
Cell: 662-832-7620 Visit jameyleggitt.com jamey@kessingerrealestate.com
662-832-7620 • jameyleggitt.com jamey@kessingerrealestate.com
The Bordeaux
August 2016 | INVITATION OXFORD
21
OXFORD SCHOOL DISTRICT FOUNDATION written by Melanie Crownover
Physics students at Oxford High School are in for a treat this fall with their brand-new Vernier Software & Technology interactive lab set with motion detectors, flight pads, projectile launchers and force sensors. The upgrade comes courtesy of a grant from the 186-member Oxford School District Foundation (OSDF), an organization that for the past three decades has helped fund innovation in classrooms around the district. “This program has affected all areas of our educational system,” instructor Ruth Nash said. “I’ve seen it within my husband’s physical education classes; my own children’s elementary and middle school English, math and history classes; as well as seeing it in action as I walk the halls of the high school.” Last year, OSDF awarded more than $51,000 to teachers from funds raised through membership dues, private donations, OSDF car tag sales and its annual pregame tailgate celebrating the first high school home football game of the season. Previous OSDF grants have provided an array of teaching tools, including Kindle e-readers for foreign language classes, a greenhouse for elementary science students and a traverse climbing wall for gym classes. “We try to hit every subject matter with our grants and stretch the funds to reach as many students as possible for as long as possible,” incoming president Allyson Best said. “With this being our 30-year anniversary, we’re hoping to see record numbers in membership.” Membership is open to family members of current and former students, and all community members. The OSDF 30th Birthday Bash will be Friday, Aug. 26, at Oxford Middle School’s practice field at 5 p.m. For more info, go to oxfordsd.org, or find OSDF on Facebook.
22
INVITATION OXFORD | August 2016
August 2016 | INVITATION OXFORD
23
WATERMELON written by Sunny Young Baker photographed by Joe Worthem
J
erry Vaughan of Water Valley holds the record for growing the largest watermelon in the state. In 2013, he participated in the Great Pumpkin Commonwealth watermelon contest and won in the Mississippi division with his 239.5-pound melon. He’s also seen much success locally, often taking home the blue ribbon at the annual Water Valley Watermelon Carnival, held the first weekend in August. Vaughan says he has perfected his craft over the years through “trial and error, then more trial and error.” He has also found some creative solutions. For example, to keep the pests away, Vaughan plays a radio in his field, which has had some added benefits. “I mostly play Christian music, and sometimes preachers come on,” Vaughan said. “I’ve heard the best preaching of my life in the watermelon fields.” For those interested in growing their own watermelons, Vaughan says to plant in May for a healthy crop in August. He also stresses the importance of finding a mentor. “Talk to someone who has been growing watermelon; then all you need is good ground, good fertilizer and good sunshine,” he said. Vaughan learned to grow watermelon from his grandparents. “My grandma grew the biggest one I’d ever seen,” he said. He is now passing the tradition on to his own children, who occasionally join him in the fields. When it comes to enjoying the fruits of his labor, Vaughn likes his crop in its purest form. “I like it straight out of the field and off the rind,” he said.
Watermelon Pizza recipe by Kimme Hargrove
1 medium-sized watermelon 8 ounces cream cheese, softened 8 ounces whipped topping 1 cup powdered sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla Fresh fruit and herbs of choice for toppings Slice watermelon into rounds about 1 inch thick. With an electric beater, mix cream cheese and whipped topping. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, and mix. Spread mixture over the red part of watermelon rounds, leaving about a ½-inch edge before the rind. Add fruit toppings. Cut into triangle slices (like a pizza), and serve. For a healthier option, omit the cream cheese mixture, and use shredded coconut as “cheese” (as shown).
24
INVITATION OXFORD | August 2016
August 2016 | INVITATION OXFORD
25
View more photos at invitationoxford.com.
SUMMER SUNSET CONCERT SERIES The first concert of the 2016 Summer Sunset Series was held in the Grove June 5 with a performance by Holy Ghost Electric Show. The free event was presented by the Ole Miss Student Union. photographed by Joey Brent
Ashley, Hassell and Taylor Wilkinson
Mary Marshall, Lona, Jason, Andrew and Sara Katherine Waller
Richard and Marilyn Frey
Danny, Lauren and Henry Klimetz with Brooke Laughlin, Rosie Klimetz and Yavuz Ozeren
Billie Allio and Sherry Cooper
Parker and Austin Maldonado
Jack and Chris Koban with Millie Smith
Paul and Kay Robst
Brynnen and Adam Quick
Rebecca Barnes and Kathy Anderson
Campbell Helveston and Taylor Neal
namesTyler names Deitsch names and names Marynames Beth Baddley names names
26
INVITATION OXFORD | August 2016
Ed, Webb, Mae and Molly Meisenheimer
Grayson and Nicole Gist
Jaclyn Howard and Blake Wilson
Cliff Olson and Crystal Lyles
August 2016 | INVITATION OXFORD
27
View more photos at invitationoxford.com.
BATESVILLE SPRINGFEST Batesville Springfest was held May 13 and 14 in downtown Batesville. The festival included live music, a classic car show, food vendors, carnival rides, a cornhole tournament and a 5K race. photographed by Joey Brent
Jennifer and John Howell
Maci Martin and Charlotte Howell
Kadyn and Kathy Bates
28
INVITATION OXFORD | August 2016
Kinsasha Jenkins and Jazmine Anderson
Nathan Gabbard, Kaitlin Coker and Hunter Bryant
Rebekah Turner and Katelyn Meek
Payton, Waylon and Kayla Swindle
Brandy and Bill Dulin
Kaylyn Cheek and Grace Stuart
August 2016 | INVITATION OXFORD
29
View more photos at invitationoxford.com.
LAFAYETTE SCHOOLS SPRING CONCERT The Lafayette High School and Lafayette Middle School chorus held a spring concert May 12 at North Oxford Baptist Church. The theme of the event was The Story of Our Lives. photographed by Joey Brent
Devin Scatterwhite, Diane Gates, and Marie and Cooper Satterwhite
Maggie and Carman Jenkins with Marcie Childers, Morgan Cooper and Anna Stone
Kayla, Jason and Amanda Arman
Anna Grace Reeves, Caroline Gray and Julie Reeves with W.D. and Carol Gray
Selena Crabb and David Ard
Jamie Shaw, Dawn Cook and Wendy Traylor
Glenn Kitchens and Doug Roberts
Beth Aldridge and Gerald Beard
Marlee and Mandy Donahue
Lee and Addie Grace McCord
Drew Mulkey and Gaddie Johnson
Holly Tedford and Nicole Baker
30
INVITATION OXFORD | August 2016
August 2016 | INVITATION OXFORD
31
View more photos at invitationoxford.com.
O.F.F. SEERSUCKER SHAKEDOWN The Oxford Film Festival hosted the Seersucker Shakedown June 3 at the Powerhouse. The fundraiser celebrated the release of the book Milk & Sugar: The Complete Book of Seersucker. photographed by Joey Brent
David and Sue Shelton
Will Lewis, Bill Halton and Patty Lewis
Stephen and Carroll Moore
Emily Cooley and Betsy Webster
Anita and Emmett Boozer
Kate Bryant with Julie and Bud Fanton
Anna, Richard, Newell and Bettie Graham
Paul Lavender and Mary Margaret Andrews
32
INVITATION OXFORD | August 2016
Bill and Cheryl Resetarits
Donna Ruth Roberts and Jo Byrd
Natalia Rossa and Andrew George
August 2016 | INVITATION OXFORD
33
View more photos at invitationoxford.com.
YOUTH FISHING RODEO The Lafayette County Law Enforcement Officers Association, with Mississippi Wildlife and Fishery, hosted a Youth Fishing Rodeo at Puskus Lake on June 18. The event included food, drinks and prizes, with event winners receiving trophies. photographed by Joey Brent
Candy Williams and Dustin Whitehead
Samantha and Aden Summey with Tammy and Bill Gunter
Fawaz Ahmad and Zulfiqar Eli
Arthur Dunn and Danny Mills
Jeremiah and Nathaniel Carter with Donnell Williams
Taylor and Kirk Jackson
Emily, Dallas and Lee Durham
Ava Grace and Beth Chandler
INVITATION OXFORD | August 2016
Mitch McGregor and Kaylie Russell
Tina, Kyle, Noah and Richard Daniels
Brandon McCluckey and Joey Jones
Jeff and Griffin Houston
34
Sebastian and Pamela Westmoreland
Vivienne and Andy Buglewicz
Ron and Olivia Rychlak
Savannah Grose and Jaxon Babb
Clay and Evan Wilson
Katie Sicks and Caleb Helms with Pam and Valerie Smith
August 2016 | INVITATION OXFORD
35
View more photos at invitationoxford.com.
LAFAYETTE SCHOOL DRAMA CLASS PLAY The Lafayette Middle School drama class performed Law and Order: Fairy Tale Unit May 19 at the Powerhouse after winning second place in the MS Public School Theater Competition. photographed by Joe Worthem
Jenny Anne and Mark Davis
Linda and Brice Noonan
36
INVITATION OXFORD | August 2016
John, Jackson and Roxanne Delaune
Brianna, Anna and Chad Brown
Cheryl Cooper with Tasha and Gavin Smith
Hershel Burnett, Jan Trussell and Amy Burnett
Abby and Selena Sullivan with Kya and Tya Prather
Essie Harris and Annie Isaiah
Sophie Pitts and Allie Hartfield
August 2016 | INVITATION OXFORD
37
View more photos at invitationoxford.com.
OXFORD NEWCOMERS CLUB PARTY The Oxford Newcomers Club held an end-of-theyear Western-themed party May 19 at Foxfire Ranch. Members enjoyed an evening of food, drinks, live music and dancing. photographed by Joe Worthem
Richard and Nancy Muller with Reba Greer
Carol Champion and Linda Smith
Lisa Daniels and Kay Lowe
Anita Kimery, Carol Clinton, Ruth Roberts and K.C. Landreth
Gary Landreth, Winn Hutchcraft, Bob O’Conner and Jim Lowe
Sharon and C.W. Campbell
38
Sam Thomas, Bonnie Siebart and Terri Thomas
INVITATION OXFORD | August 2016
Carol and Randy Rawlings
Josh Reagan with Barbara and Bill Bailey
Margaret and Bill Arnold
Rich and Barb Harmon with Steve Case
August 2016 | INVITATION OXFORD
39
View more photos at invitationoxford.com.
OXFORD ACADEMY OF DANCE ARTS RECITAL The Oxford Academy of Dance Arts held a spring recital May 15 at the Oxford Middle School Auditorium with performances by the students. photographed by Rachel West
Anna Katherine Vega and Ellie Hinton
Carly Powers and Rivers Hancock
Baker Quick and Katherine Haymans
40
INVITATION OXFORD | August 2016
Ford Atkinson, Ellie Lowery and Claire Tosh
Beth and Keaton Chamblee with Kathie Boone and Lynlee Chamblee
Henley Camp, Eleanor Todd, Annalee Rogers and Mary Katherine West
Annie Lewis, Ali Hewitt, Audrey Mercier, Maddie Beauchamp and Anne Elise Downs
Maren Feltenstein and Bramlett Sherman
August 2016 | INVITATION OXFORD
41
View more photos at invitationoxford.com.
DESTINATION OXFORD CRUISE & CAR SHOW A classic car show was held May 27 and 28 at the Oxford Conference Center. The event included a car parade around the Square, cash prizes and trophies for winners in 10 categories.
photographed by Joey Brent
Allen Harris and Cindy Hale
Arseniy and Alex Parshikov
42
INVITATION OXFORD | August 2016
Jimmie Nell and Tommy Garrett
Candice Maynard and Jason Plunk
Jerry Mize and Kenneth Harris
Hunter, Ella Grace and Chris Mayhew
David Harrell, Melissa Babb and Scott Swain
Betsy and Dave Johnston
Mark Allen and Jimmy Harden
Jackie Allen and Ethan Goodwin
Todd and George Lynch
Josh, Blair and Lincoln Wagner
August 2016 | INVITATION OXFORD
43
When I Grow Up The future looks bright for these local boys and girls who are getting early starts on their dream jobs. written by Toni Overby photographed by Joe Worthem
44
INVITATION OXFORD | August 2016
In between play dates, sports practices and summer vacations, childhood is a time for daydreaming about what the future holds and answering that age-old question “What do you want to be when you grow up?” Whether it’s to be a firefighter, a famous chef or president of the United States, these local students prove it’s never too early to start planning for the future.
Teacher
Emma York, Age 3 Preschool, Willie Price Lab School “My hands are tucked behind my back; my body’s straight and tall. My eyes are looking straight ahead; I’m ready for the hall.” In her home in Water Valley, 3-year-old Emma York is ready for the walk down the hall, but unlike when she’s a student at Willie Price Lab School on the University of Mississippi campus, at home York is the teacher, and her family and two imaginary friends, Sweet Lisa and Imaginary James, are her students. “Emma wants to be like her teacher, Miss Sarah, when she grows up,” her mother, Kathryn, said. “Miss Sarah is the leader in a very directive way, and this year Emma decided she wanted to be a teacher too.” Just like Miss Sarah, York hands her students job cards with tasks, such as Line Leader, Caboose, Flag Holder, Calendar Helper and Weather Bunny. Each helper holds the job for the school day, and York expects them to do it well. In fact, when her grandfather, the designated Flag Holder, put his hand in the wrong place, York quickly let him know of his error. “It doesn’t go by your heart; it goes by your side,” she told him. Like many teachers, York feels the strain of a long school day and grows weary from the challenging job. “Excuse me, but I’m tired,” Miss York said, as she exited the room, leaving Sweet Lisa and Imaginary James to their homework assignments.
August 2016 | INVITATION OXFORD
45
Veterinarian
Maeve Lester, Age 7 Second Grade, Oxford Elementary School Second-grader Maeve Lester knows exactly what she wants to be when she grows up. “I’ve loved animals my whole life, so I figured out that a veterinarian is a doctor for animals,” she said. “I’m going to help all animals, from an elephant to a flea.” The young and passionate vegetarian says she developed a love for all creatures after learning about the way animals were treated on certain farms. “I want to let everyone know what is happening to animals and why we should take care of them. Even if you like to eat meat, you should take care of them,” she said. Lester has learned much of what she knows about animals from watching the PBS children’s show Wild Kratts and from reading the Ranger Rick magazine her mother subscribes to for her. “Ranger Rick talks a lot about animal facts, and there’s always a story with a fox and a porcupine where they go exploring to find animals,” Lester said. She has plans to go to the University of Mississippi but would travel any place animals need to be helped, even as far away as Africa. “I’m not afraid,” she said. “I really want to help the world; it’s the only thing I dream of. Animals are a power source to the world. They help trees by fertilizing; they dig up things that shouldn’t be in the ground. I want everyone to know that we need to help all animals.”
46
INVITATION OXFORD | August 2016
Firefighter
Zakery Sallis, Age 11 Sixth Grade, Lafayette Middle School Zakery Sallis didn’t have to look far to find a role model for his dream job – his father, Cary, is the Oxford Fire Department’s fire chief. Sallis thinks his dad is the type of guy all kids should look up to. “He’s smart, brave and works hard,” he said. Even at his young age, Sallis knows these are qualities a fire fighter must possess. “Firemen have to check equipment, do lots of training, work on detectors and fire hydrants, and respond to calls,” he said. In order to be good at the job, Sallis believes firefighters should learn to be responsible at a young age, which means being a good student in school and keeping physically fit. “Then you have to go to the fire academy and pass,” he said. With help from his father, Sallis is already learning the ins and outs of this exciting and admirable career. “Being a fireman is a hard and dangerous job, but they get to do a lot of cool things, too. They drive fire trucks, fight fires, go high up on the ladder, and they get to teach kids,” Sallis said. “Firemen save lives.”
August 2016 | INVITATION OXFORD
47
Gymnast
Emme Brown, Age 16 Junior, Lafayette High School Junior Emme Brown jokes that she broke the couch flipping off of it so many times as a child that her mother finally decided to enroll her in gymnastics to let out her energy. Seven years later, couch flips have turned into a successful career as a competitive gymnast. Brown attends Elite II Gymnastics in Tupelo under the instruction of Metry McCaughy. “My parents have sacrificed a lot for me to be able to do gymnastics, like driving me to Tupelo three days a week and giving up weekends to watch me compete. They are always my biggest cheerleaders,” Brown said. “And my coach is a second dad; he makes sure I work my hardest and that I glorify God in everything I do, inside and outside the gym.” Being a successful competitive gymnast doesn’t come without a few setbacks, and Brown has had more than her fair share. “About two years ago, I snapped my left arm in half during the bar routine. After that, I didn’t know if I would be able to do gymnastics the way I did before,” she said. Continuing after a long recovery was a tough decision for her, but Brown persevered. “It takes a true athlete to know how to push through and make something great happen through the hard days,” she said. Brown knows there will be an end to her competitive days and hopes her future includes owning her own gymnastics studio. But until then, her goal is to keep pursuing her dreams. “You learn so many great things from gymnastics that help you be a better person outside of the sport,” she said. “You meet so many people who will be by your side through everything. But there will be days you want to quit. You have to push through those and overcome the obstacles. The reward is that much greater in the end.”
48
INVITATION OXFORD | August 2016
Chef
Ra’Anthony Cortez Perry, Age 16 Junior, Oxford High School An electrician and a chef don’t have much in common, but these are the two jobs that Ra’Anthony Cortez Perry, a junior at Oxford High School, considered as a child. His father, a head maintenance worker at a large apartment complex in Biloxi, told Perry that being an electrician would be a steady, lucrative career. But it was his mother and her skills in the kitchen who unknowingly gave Perry the idea to seek out a career as a chef. “I had always enjoyed taking things apart and putting them back together again, so of course I thought I wanted to be an electrician,” Perry said. “However, I was in the kitchen one Thanksgiving cooking with my mom, auntie and grandmother, and I suddenly realized how much I loved being in there, watching them cook and smelling the good smells. That’s when I said, ‘I want to cook.’ ” Watching The Food Channel taught him more about his aspiring career. But it was a school field trip to Camp Lake Stephens, where he learned about horticulture and the ways herbs smell and taste at different stages of development, that cultivated Perry’s interest in using spices and seasonings. “Now I cook with a lot of nutmeg, jalapeños, cayenne pepper. My favorite dish is an Alfredo pasta with shrimp. Everyone who has tried it loves it,” he said. After graduating high school, Perry plans to find a restaurant job that allows him to work his way up. He says he is also considering joining the military to pay for further education, though he hasn’t decided which branch. “I know the first job I have will probably be as a dishwasher in the back of the kitchen,” he said. “But I don’t mind doing that kind of work. Everybody has to start somewhere.” He hopes his love of food and cooking will provide him a way to travel the world. “I want to see places as close as Louisiana and as far away as Germany,” he said. “I want to try the food there, but I want those people to try my food too. When people eat what I cook and get smiles on their faces, it warms my heart.”
August 2016 | INVITATION OXFORD
49
Filmmaker
Merrick McCool and Andrew Gardner, Age 16 Juniors, Oxford High School A love of film and camera work is what led Merrick McCool (left) and Andrew Gardner (right), two Oxford High School juniors, to create an Emmy award-winning high school film series about sports, based on the University of Mississippi’s popular series The Season. McCool spends much of his time working for Ole Miss in the production department. Spectators will often catch him wielding the camera across the baseball field during a Rebels game, filming action shots and interviewing players. Because of this experience, Oxford High School Assistant Principal Duncan Gray asked McCool if he would be interested in producing something similar to The Season for the high school. “We record as many different athletics as we can: football, baseball, track, cross-country and soccer. We’re trying to film every sport and produce a show that humanizes the players so people see they’re real people,” McCool said. After getting Gardner, an avid fan of theater and documentaries, on board, the pair filmed daily until they had what looked to be a promising production. “Our job was to make the players look cooler than they already are, which is easy to do,” Gardner said, laughing. It worked. The film was a huge hit and garnered much local attention. McCool and Gardner were so pleased with the finished product they entered it into a few different award junkets, and last spring they won the Southeast Emmy award in the High School Sports Program division for The Season: Oxford Baseball. “We entered, never imagining we would win,” McCool said. Because of the film’s success, plans for future episodes of The Season are in the works as Gardner and McCool are busy grooming a new crop of journalism students to work behind them, hoping they will accomplish even bigger goals for Oxford High School sports productions. “If we can leave a legacy that will honor what we did here and be fruitful in the future, that’s what we’re going to do,” Gardner said.
50
INVITATION OXFORD | August 2016
August 2016 | INVITATION OXFORD
51
52
INVITATION OXFORD | August 2016
These local health programs are helping the more than 100,000 children of Lafayette County and the surrounding area be fit and happy. written by Toni Overby photographed by Joe Worthem
RebelWell
RebelWell, a University of Mississippi-led initiative made possible in part by a grant from Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Mississippi Foundation, consists of various leaders in the university community who seek to help Oxford and university citizens develop healthy lifestyles. Through various educational health fairs, medical screenings, cooking programs and more, RebelWell partners with many groups in the community to enable them to interact with each other. With groups like the United Way’s Excel by 5, the University Museum, the McLean Institute’s Horizons Camps, and Rebel Quest, RebelWell has been able to create several youth health programs at local elementary schools, such as Walking Wednesdays – an organized group of adults and students who have playtime before school begins and then walk to school together – and Fresh Fruit Fridays, which provides students with locally sourced
RebelWell partners with many local groups, including the summer learning program Horizons. Top, students practice their swimming skills with Turner Center instructors. Above, coach Lauren Hill, a Horizons RebelWell P.E. instructor, works with student Kiannah Hickinbottom on beginning archery skills as part of the Olympics-themed P.E. unit.
fruit and includes nutritional information cards and a sticker reward system to encourage the children to try new fruits. RebelWell also organizes free group fitness classes each Saturday, open to all ages, and holds a nutrition-focused event for the community in the fall. They host running clinics on campus in preparation for the RebelWell Mighty Half Marathon training and hosted the first ever Fitness Challenge for Educators last spring. “It’s very cool to be able to offer something completely free to the most impor-
tant people in our community: our teachers,” program coordinator Wendy Carmean said. Future plans for the program include adding indoor walking paths at local schools, which will be measured and labeled for “step challenges” in the fall. They also hope to bring more activities for high school teenagers and a “healthy business” campaign, which will highlight wellness-minded businesses in the area. “We want to keep building our audience, get folks following us on social media and have feedback from the community,” Carmean said. August 2016 | INVITATION OXFORD
53
Good Food for Oxford Schools
The Oxford School District has worked hard to help children lead healthier lives by forming Good Food for Oxford Schools (GFOS), a program aimed at improving cafeteria menus and educating students and their families about healthier food options. Started in 2012 by a group of community members and school district associates, the program launched in 2013 after receiving a USDA Farm to School Planning Grant. GFOS now shines among Mississippi schools implementing healthier nutrition guide lines. New Program Director Eleanor Green works in partnership with the child nutrition director, the district head chef and cafeteria managers at each of the schools to apply farm-to-table principles in each of the cafeteria kitchens, all striving to provide meals from scratch. “ ‘Tackling childhood obesity on the front lines’ is our mantra. The sooner we can teach, the sooner they can incorporate,” Green said. GFOS buys directly from farmers, purchasing vegetables like cucumbers and sweet potatoes to ship to each of the six schools. A government program also allots a sum of money to purchase from farmers, who plant based on what the school plans to eat. “This helps everyone, from farmers to students to the economy of the entire community,” Green said. In addition to various fundraisers, such as a yearly Gospel Choir Showcase typically held the Sunday of Double Decker Festival weekend, GFOS also holds cooking classes and school garden demonstrations. “The kids love cooking. With the Gospel Choir Showcase, we have an Iron Chef competition for kids, and the winning entry is featured on the next year’s school menu,” Green said. GFOS’s biggest event is Carrot Camp, which is held every summer for children ages 5-14. Supported by Baptist Memorial HospitalNorth Mississippi, campers learn to plant summer gardens, interact with farm animals and enjoy healthy cooking lessons.
54
INVITATION OXFORD | August 2016
At Good Food for Oxford Schools’ Carrot Camp, children learn about nutrition and participate in gardening and cooking demonstrations. Pictured at center: Student instructor Ra’Anthony Cortez Perry dresses as the camp’s mascot.
Local School Recess Initiative
Parents are the most important advocates for children’s health, and Whitman Smith, director of admissions at the University of Mississippi, is among a group of parents of children in the Oxford School District who came together last year to petition the school on behalf of their children for more free time during school hours. “We learned through talking to each other and to our kids that at a couple of the upper-age schools there was really no free time at all,” Smith said. “I think we all know the mountain of growing research and evidence of the positive effects recess has on student attention spans and the ability to sit and think.” The school board agreed, and plans are in the works to see how extra free time could be incorporated into the day without affecting teachers’ planning schedules and required instruction times. Smith and many other parents said it might be worth adding more time to the school day to allow for recess or free time. “I’d take 15 more minutes at the end of the school day if it created 15 minutes during the school day for free time,” Smith said. “It’s the smart thing to do. Oxford has always been a leader in education, and this goes right along with being the progressive community that we are.” August 2016 | INVITATION OXFORD
55
Lafayette High School Swim Team
This year, Lafayette High School will have a competitive swim team for the first time in almost a decade. The Commodores and their coach, Nicole Robinson, are currently holding practices at the Oxford Swimclub and the Turner Center and are gearing up for their upcoming dual meet against the Oxford High School Chargers.
When Oxford native Nicole Robinson landed her first teaching position in the Lafayette School District in 2015, one of the first things asked during her interview was if she would be interested in forming a swim team. Lafayette High School had not had one in almost a decade, and students were interested in bringing it back. Former Lafayette principal Patrick Robinson (no relation to Nicole) was aware that she had enjoyed a lengthy swim career; Nicole had been swimming since age 6 and began competing at 8. She eventually joined the Oxford
56
INVITATION OXFORD | August 2016
High School swim team before making it all the way to the highly acclaimed Delta State University team. “My whole life has been swim, swim and more swim,” she said. Nicole worked the entire school year to create interest in tryouts for the coming season for any Lafayette swimmer in grades 7-12. Eight students made the team on the first tryout last May, and a couple of them have experience competing in the city’s long-running Shockwave program. Although Nicole thinks eight is a good number to build upon, she will hold an additional tryout in August.
Senior Anja Diercks was among those who made the first cut. “I’m a lifeguard, and I’ve always liked swimming,” she said. “It’s fun and keeps me fit.” Collin Lewis, a seventh-grader, also joined the team. “I’ve always been interested in swimming. My parents always called me a fish,” she said. Nicole says good form and an ability to make it across the pool are the two biggest factors in making the team. She is excited about the upcoming dual meet Lafayette will hold against Oxford High School to gain some experience before competition season begins.
August 2016 | INVITATION OXFORD
57
Natural Wonders of Mississippi Take a late-summer road trip and experience the beauty of nature in the Magnolia State. written by Kate Lechler photographed by Joe Worthem
red bluff An hour and a half east of Hattiesburg, near Foxworth, is the Mississippi version of the Grand Canyon. Red Bluff can be found at the end of twisty back roads through the woods and open fields. It is a 150-foot-deep chasm of red clay that has eroded naturally. The soil, one of the most striking aspects of the canyon, is striped in coral, peach, lemon and brick red. Intrepid hikers can take rugged trails down to the bottom on the north and south ends. From the top, Red Bluff offers beautiful views of several miles of forest northwest of the canyon.
58
INVITATION OXFORD | August 2016
August 2016 | INVITATION OXFORD
59
merit falls Merit Falls, close to Mendenhall, is off Highway 49 in Simpson County where the Rials Creek forms a series of small waterfalls. Fed by a natural spring, the falls offer a refreshing reprieve from the late-summer heat where families and nature lovers can relax in the shade, picnic beside the creek and enjoy a beautiful 6-foot-deep swimming hole with year-round cool water.
60
INVITATION OXFORD | August 2016
August 2016 | INVITATION OXFORD
61
tishomingo state park About two and half hours from Oxford, near the Alabama border in the foothills of the Appalachians, Tishomingo State Park claims the highest natural point in Mississippi. In addition to hiking and bouldering, visitors can enjoy rappelling off the point of Jean’s Overhang. Located on Bear Creek, a tributary of the Tennessee River, Tishomingo also has a small lake where people can canoe, kayak and fish. Dating to the 1930s, camping cabins and other park facilities are built from local stone, and the park also features a historic trapper’s cabin.
62
INVITATION OXFORD | August 2016
August 2016 | INVITATION OXFORD
63
union falls Near Moselle, on a back road of Highway 11, is a little-known treasure called Union Falls. The waterfall is a favorite spot for Jones County locals where the water, coming from Tallahala Creek, spills over a 6-foot-high rock overhang. Kids can jump from the top of the falls into the swimming hole below, and swimmers can duck under the overhang and get a glimpse of the falls from the back.
seminary falls Seminary Falls, on the Bouie River, is located in Seminary. A bus brings canoes and kayaks to a point on Old Highway 49 where people can float down the river. The Bouie River is fast here, running in shallow falls and rapids, but after the main falls it becomes slower and deeper and has many sandbars. Surrounded by beau tiful woods, visitors can spend the day swimming and diving.
64
INVITATION OXFORD | August 2016
August 2016 | INVITATION OXFORD
65
sky lake boardwalk About two hours west of Oxford in the Delta is the Sky Lake Boardwalk. Just before arriving in Greenville, signs to the park lead to a lovely, rustic boardwalk that threads through a swamp filled with bald cypress trees, some of which are rumored to be over 1,000 years old. The boardwalk, a third of a mile long, offers an easy walk, allowing visitors to go at their own pace high above the swamp. In addition, a new paddling trail is available for people to canoe and kayak when the water levels are high enough.
66
INVITATION OXFORD | August 2016
August 2016 | INVITATION OXFORD
67
d’lo water park D’Lo Water Park is located near Merit Falls, on the Strong River off Highway 49. Here, visitors can kayak or raft down the lazy river, wade along its rocky soapstone bottom or swim in its cold, clear water. The river is also an excellent fishing spot. In addition to various fun family activities in the water, the wooded park features walking trails and ball fields. Overnight visitors can stay in an RV park, a camping area or cabins. An outdoor amphitheater provides a space for events and live performances.
68
INVITATION OXFORD | August 2016
Come visit our historic downtown for these great events on The Square.
REBEL vs BULLDOG TAILGATE CHALLENGE AUGUST 20TH
SEPTEMBER 16 & 17 August 2016 | INVITATION OXFORD
69
gulf islands national seashore On Mississippi’s Gulf Coast is a stretch of beautiful parkland and islands called Gulf Islands National Seashore. On the mainland, the park consists of walking trails and a lagoon where visitors can camp, fish, and see alligators and native birds. Along the white-sand beach, visitors can catch crabs or swim in the blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico. An hourlong boat ride takes visitors to Ship Island, where the historic Fort Massachusetts is located. Tour guides explain how this brick structure was built and used during the Civil War. Since no one but park rangers resides permanently on Ship Island, its tall grasses provide a home for many nesting birds.
70
INVITATION OXFORD | August 2016
August 2016 | INVITATION OXFORD
71
72
INVITATION OXFORD | August 2016
August 2016 | INVITATION OXFORD
73
In between their trips around the world, Gay Graeber and Jack Stubbs enjoy spending time at their Oxford home full of vacation mementos and Graeber’s travelinspired artwork. written by Kate Lechler photographed by Joe Worthem
Gay Graeber and Jack Stubbs have been organizing and leading group trips around the world for many years. Traveling is very important to the couple, who have been from Iceland to China to Tanzania; a map hanging in their home shows all the destinations the couple have experienced together.
Gay Graeber and Jack Stubbs love
their jet-setting lives. In the next 12 months, they will visit Athens, Rome, Turkey and England, along with several other destinations in between. These aren’t all romantic getaways for two, however. The couple organize and host group trips and will bring along several people with them to experience food, art and nature around the world. In a flyer for one of their recent trips,
Stubbs included a quote: “The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page.” Next to the quote, he wrote “St. Augustine Stubbs.” “St. Augustine might have said it,” Stubbs said, “but I believe it.” Stubbs, a native of Holly Springs, earned his MBA at the University of Mississippi in 1971. Working for the Social Security Administration, he spent time in New York and Atlanta
before returning to Holly Springs. In 1992, he began working part-time for Gulliver’s Travel agency in Memphis, and in 1997, he led his first group trip when he took his eldest son and some of his friends to China to visit Beijing and the Great Wall. “Travel is educational and fun,” he said. “I wanted to encourage parents and kids to travel together.” At that point, group travel turned from a business pursuit into a passion. He began August 2016 | INVITATION OXFORD
75
taking groups on spring break trips every year to popular study-abroad locations such as Italy, where parents could see their children studying abroad. “But soon the parents said they wanted to go places without their kids,” he said. “Someone suggested Greece, so we made it happen.” He has since led groups on trips to Chile, Morocco, Iceland, Egypt, Spain and many other locations around the globe. In 1999, Stubbs and Graeber met at a wedding reception. Stubbs told Graeber about his travels and invited her on a spring 2000 trip to Machu Picchu. They married four years later. Graeber, a native of Marks, had earned her BFA in painting from the University of Mississippi in 1969. After earning a master’s degree in gifted education and teaching in Kentucky and Memphis for several years, she moved to Oxford in 1995 and continued her art. “I usually paint in oils, watercolors or encaustic,” she said, “but I’ve also carved Styrofoam and worked in clay and metal. I do whatever it takes to complete the project.” Together, Stubbs and Graeber are the perfect combination of art and travel. While Stubbs arranges the details of the trip, working out restaurant, hotel and other travel requirements, Graeber helps set the itinerary so clients can experience the local culture. “I love showing clients local art galleries and telling them the stories that go along with Monet or Bernini or Mary Cassatt,” she said. Graeber also enjoys traveling because of how it inspires her own art. “I love seeing art across the world,” she said. “When you’re in that space, you begin to understand the artist’s choices of color or shape or composition.” She often takes small blank books and a set of watercolors as she travels. Because she comes prepared, Graeber has been able to sketch in Monet’s garden, in a jeep on safari in Kenya, and sitting on ice in Antarctica while penguins pecked at her toes. As the couple get older, they wonder whether they can keep up the pace of travel. “We keep promising each other we won’t go to Africa again,” Stubbs said. “But as soon as we touch down, we say, ‘We have to come back!’ ” Of all the places they’ve visited, the continent of Africa is their favorite. “Seeing the connection between the people, the animals and the land changes your life,” Graeber said.
76
INVITATION OXFORD | August 2016
In February 2002, the couple visited a Masai village in Tanzania and encountered villagers overjoyed to see them. “Their lives depend on tourism,” Stubbs said. “We were the first tourists they’d had since 9/11.” Their experiences are mirrored in their home, which houses an eclectic collection of treasures from across the world. Statues from Brazil, masks from Australia and paintings from Poland are just some of the beautiful memories
they have on display, alongside works from Mississippi artists such as Walter Anderson, Philip Jackson and, of course, Graeber herself. Graeber’s studio, a one-room building in their backyard, is an airy space with exposed beams and lots of natural light. It also showcases their travel experiences through the lens of Graeber’s artistic creations. Her paintings reflect her love of travel; she is currently working on a series of paintings of Biblical patriarchs,
inspired in part by her time in Egypt and Israel. The items collected by Stubbs and Graeber, and the art that is inspired by them, remind the couple why they travel in the first place and inspire them to go out and do it again.
In between trips, Graeber retreats to her cabinlike art studio to create works of art inspired by the places and cultures she has experienced across the world. August 2016 | INVITATION OXFORD
77
View more photos at invitationoxford.com.
JUNETEENTH FESTIVAL The annual Juneteenth celebration was held June 18 on Martin Luther King Drive. The event, commemorating the Empancipation Proclamation, included live music, food and a parade. photographed by Joey Brent
Jerret Chism, Ellen Bryant and Crystal Elliott
Devonta McDonald, Kendall Carr, Phillips Jones and Kendarius McGruder
Morman Tillman, Sierra Mannie and Thaddeus Moss
Pam Harvey, Tanisha Martin, Lashaunda Sisk and Christi Bland
Daniel Hope and Verline Buckingham
Bridgette Booker and Shadaijia Means
Nayiah Dean and Tylease McNeil
Douglas Tanner and Jaysean Speaks
Tinecia Francis and Aatalya King
Chester Starks and Ulysses Howell
Sheila Smith Searcy and Tammy B. Herod
David Hicks and Brett Hobson
78
INVITATION OXFORD | August 2016
Angela Smith, Aiden Matthews and Betty Liddell
Derrick, Lashaundra and Derion Gale with D’Angelo Phillips
Check out the
INVITATION Oxford
Fridays are tasty at INVITATIONOXFORD.COM! Visit our food blog for delicious recipes contributed by food blogger Kimme Hargrove each week. Kim Vassar, Andi Bedsworth and Dason Pettit
August 2016 | INVITATION OXFORD
79
80
INVITATION OXFORD | August 2016
August 2016 | INVITATION OXFORD
81
View more photos at invitationoxford.com.
TRACKS OF ART FESTIVAL The Tracks of Art Festival was held May 21 at the Holly Springs Depot. Several rooms in the depot were opened to the public for the first time in decades. The festival included music, food vendors and a showing of local documentaries. photographed by Joey Brent
Lorena Adams and Karen Wilson
Liliana and Isidro Aquiler
Heather Knapp and Betsi Reagh
Joyce Ann Gardner and Alexandra Ashmead
Rachel Riley, Virginia Hall and Alisa Dewberry
Paula Kelley, Heather Yount and Tina Robertson
Rosamond and Anita Barnett
82
INVITATION OXFORD | August 2016
Bronwyn, Finley Kate and Kathy Clanton with Jill McAlexander and Debra and Scott Tomlinson
Brenda and James Cowans
Stephanie Cavender and Bobby Mitchell
Suzanne and Andy Hight
August 2016 | INVITATION OXFORD
83
View more photos at invitationoxford.com.
LEAP FROG FIRECRACKER BASH The fourth annual Firecracker Bash was July 1 at the Lyric. The fundraiser for the tutoring and mentoring program Leap Frog included a silent auction and a performance by the band Hollywood. photographed by Michaela Cooper
Amber Gray and Cathy Lowe
Kevin and Dianna Seddon
Holly and Matt Vollor
Marc and Dawn Boutwell
Stacy Cascio and Guy Shoaf
Matt and Whitney Turner
Melinda and Bill Freeman
84
INVITATION OXFORD | August 2016
Suzanne and Gary Messer
Allen Kurr and Katie Keiser
Lee Bowie and Julie Dorman
Yvette Phillips and Richard Cobb
Marion McBride and Amanda Sharp
Ashley Cook, Rachel Valentine and Audrey Camp
Cindy Johnson and Tricia Bradford
Bobby and Lisa Towery with Belinda and Bobby Jones
Tim Cook and Brad Camp
Mac Nichols and Joe York
Dennis and Bonnie Siebert
Brett and Stacey Cantrell
August 2016 | INVITATION OXFORD
85
View more photos at invitationoxford.com.
WILLIE PRICE LAB SCHOOL CARNIVAL Willie Price Lab School held a carnival celebrating the end of the school year on May 20. The event included games, food and a photo booth. photographed by Joey Brent
Malayna VanLandeghem and Emma York
Tai Stewart, Maegan Williams and Journee McGee
Luke Farese and Rollie Carson
86
INVITATION OXFORD | August 2016
Griffen and Seph Anderson
Layla Farese and Griffen Anderson
Khloe Lynwood, Sarah Siebert and Michelle Fudge
Alli Rhodes, Chelsea Walters and Kayla McIntyre
Griffin Stroupe and Erin Levidiotis
Joy Meek and Caroline Allen
Amelia Armstrong and Avery Adams
August 2016 | INVITATION OXFORD
87
View more photos at invitationoxford.com.
COC/EDF LUNCHEON AND RED CARPET GALA The Oxford/Lafayette Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Foundation held an annual meeting May 18 at The Inn at Ole Miss, followed by a formal gala May 19 at The Jefferson.
photographed by Joey Brent
Bill and Wren Dabney
Mason and Charlene Baker with Shirley and Pete Graves
Erin Briscoe and Council Young
Nadia Thornton and Annie Rhoades
Jason and Nicole Brunner
88
INVITATION OXFORD | August 2016
Ann and Bill Canty
Keely Williams and Edwin Dawkins
Randall names Haley, names Callie names Daniels namesBryant namesand names Emilynames Newton
Christy and Ron Knapp with Ron Hipp
Pamela and Calton Roberson with Ansley Williams and Shirley Graves
Cherie and Holly Maynard
Kate Rosson and Michele McCay
Barry and Barbara Magee
names names Brady names Bramlettnames and Adam namesKuffner names names
Julie and John Hopkins
names names Heather namesand names Chris names Knapp names names
Quentin and Ellen Brewer
Lolita Gregory and Lakesha Williams
Andrew and Holli Ratcliff
Rush and Hannah Mayo
August 2016 | INVITATION OXFORD
89
View more photos at invitationoxford.com.
FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATIONS The L.O.U. 4th of July children’s parade was held on the Square. Other celebrations included a community dance, 5K race and activities in the Grove with live music and a fireworks display. photographed by Michaela Cooper
T.A. and Brenda Bowen
Amy and Julia Dennis with Lizzy
90
INVITATION OXFORD | August 2016
Tony, Abigail and Claire Haas
Jeff and Jean Miller with Murphey
Jack and Sue Ann Skipworth
Byron, Jamie and William Carr
Beckett, Teagan and Ann Fowler
Grant, Grayson and Nicole Gist
names names Chloe,names Siennanames and Brandi namesFowler names names
Sam, Betty and Katie Schornhorst
Courtney and Winters Rowe with Lenna Benton
names names Annelise, names Erinnames and Allan names Innman names names
Zach Buggeln and Madison Cobb with Makenzie and Hudson Wills
Taryn Mowatt and Josh McCoy
Emma Brown and Frank Gowan
Branton Foil and Chris Suber
Natalie Howard, Sasha and Sylvia Tropp and Isabel Mclemore
Neeli, Katelynn and Craig Kirkendall
Jason and Whitney Simon
Brian and Cara Porter with Rhodes
Max and Allison Woolsey
August 2016 | INVITATION OXFORD
91
View more photos at invitationoxford.com.
SPLASH ’N DASH 5K RACE The second annual Splash ’n Dash 5K was held June 4 in Avent Park. The race was sponsored by Lee Family Denistry, and participants were showered with water during the run. photographed by Joey Brent
Sloane and Sandra Clark
Kendra, Sarah, Bella and Anna Katherine Vega
92
INVITATION OXFORD | August 2016
Rachel and Philip Mahoney
Mike and Brenda O’Dell
Eryn, Hannah, Kendra and Esther Sanders
Sarah Bell and Teresa Faust
Preston Lee, Scott Romero, Marvin King and Jennifer Romero
Wesley and Katie Bryant
Andrew Pham and Jalen Neal
August 2016 | INVITATION OXFORD
93
View more photos at invitationoxford.com.
TUNES AND TAILS The fifth annual Tunes and Tails was held May 21 at the Armory Pavilion. The event was sponsored by the Oxford-Ole Miss Rotary Club and benefited the Lafayette County Literacy Council. photographed by Joey Brent
Luke and Audrey Floyd
Paige Dodgen, Kirsten Bowen and Taylor Davison
Vicky Brough and Meg Sinervo
Shea Graeber with Mike and Debbie Tomes
Emily McGee with Mary Allyn and James Hedges
Rusty and Laura Woods
Bob Dickerson and Wesley Webb
Kyle and Stevi Campbell
Chris Sabo and Sydney Castleberry
Mary Thompson and Bill Sloan
Jason and Nicole List
names names Dan names and Alison namesNemesek names names names
94
INVITATION OXFORD | August 2016
Kyle Still and Sarah McLellan
Joli Nichols, Katie Deweese and Mary Madeleine Koury
Camila Selvati and Drew Windham
Jeff Long and Steve Brewer
August 2016 | INVITATION OXFORD
95
View more photos at invitationoxford.com.
PIANO DUET CONTEST A piano duet contest was held May 27 in the Nutt Auditorium. The event was part of the 2016 World Championship OldÂ-Time Piano Playing Contest and Festival held May 26-30 at various local venues. photographed by Joey Brent
Henrietta and Miranda Freeman
John Santamaria and Barbara Flack
Ann and Bart Jones
96
INVITATION OXFORD | August 2016
Four Arrows and Adam Swanson
Angelina and Ashley Leyva
David and Janet Henkinson
Bo and Steve Freeman with Janie and Steve Stelljes
Scott and Roma King
Rilla and Bill McHarris
Kenneth Kidd and Gerry Cornwall
August 2016 | INVITATION OXFORD
97
View more photos at invitationoxford.com.
OUT AND ABOUT CONTINUED ON PAGE 100
VIGIL FOR ORLANDO SHOOTING VICTIMS
BROOKDALE’S BOOTS AND BANDANAS
Ed and Penny Sisson
STROLLER TOUR AT UM MUSEUM
David and Jie Tang with Yarxia Gad
Natasha Willingham and Bonnie Shepherd
BAPTIST MEMORIAL HOSPITAL BABY FAIR
Liya and Leti Wodajo
AT&T FIBER NETWORK ANNOUNCEMENT
OXFORD INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL SIXTH-GRADE INSIGHTS CLASS DEBATES
98
INVITATION OXFORD | August 2016
RECOGNITION PROGRAM FOR DISTRICT 3 POLL MANAGERS
Lola Pearson and Martha Shaw
JUNIOR AUXILIARY OF OXFORD PASSING OF THE CROWN
Brandon Presley, Mayo Flynt and Roger Wicker
Max Griffith and John Bial
Major Coffey and Richard Bogue
Hillary and Aidan Goulding
Sarah Snowden, Erin Briscoe and Joanne Mitchell
PARCHMAN BOOK LAUNCH AND PRISON ART AUCTION
Effie Burt, Ree Moses and Michelle Bright with Louis and Simone Bourgeois
Need a sitter for Ole Miss home games? CALL TODAY and book a spot with
Peggy Bennett 662-202-2806
• Available for all Ole Miss home games 2 hours prior to kickoff until 2 hours after game is over. • $50/child • $80 for 2 siblings • Meals, drinks and snacks provided • Craft time, movie time, nap time, and toys galore! • One adult per 5 children will be present at all times. • Over 30 years experiece in childcare.
Ole Miss
August 2016 | INVITATION OXFORD
99
View more photos at invitationoxford.com.
OUT AND ABOUT CONTINUED FROM PAGE 98
OHS BOOSTER CLUB CRAWFISH & BASEBALL
BIKE & BUILD WITH HABITAT FOR HUMANITY
Gwen and Robbie Finch
Erin Troedson and Annie McClellan
THE BLAKE AT OXFORD LUAU
Carol Epes and Lillene Condon
OHS CLASS OF 1976 REUNION AND BENCH DEDICATION
Oxford High School Class of 1976
FINANCIAL PROTECTION SEMINAR
Justin Watson and Tim Sockwell
100
Teresa Barr and Pearl Owens
SOUTHSIDE GALLERY ARTIST RECEPTION
Laura Barbar, Donna Oliphant and Gail Adams
FALLEN OFFICER MEMORIAL
NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER
INVITATION OXFORD | August 2016
Mary and John Jarrett
Marilyn and Richard Frey
Gothataone Moeng and Matt Kessler
YAC CHILDREN’S MUSICAL THEATER CAMP
Cast Members of The Most Epic Birthday Party Ever
OU BANK TWO-PERSON SCRAMBLE
Lynn Ryan and Morgan Johns
FORD CENTER VOLUNTEER PROGRAM
Leah and Ken Hanks
Sugar Magnolia Old Town Shopping Center 1919 University Ave., Oxford, MS 662-234-6330 August 2016 | INVITATION OXFORD
101
CAVITY FREE DIPLOMATE, AMERICAN BOARD OF PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY
Congratulations to our May & June Winners!
Hunter Morrow
Darren Rockette
Tel: 662-513-4188 2408 South Lamar Blvd Suite 1 • Oxford, Ms 38655
102
INVITATION OXFORD | August 2016
August 2016 | INVITATION OXFORD
103
APRIL HAYNES
interviewed by Meaghin Burke photographed by Joe Worthem
April Haynes, who shares her love of reading with children at Lafayette Elementary School, has discovered that her physical disability often helps her bond with students even more.
Q: How did you get started volunteering? A: I told Ms. Amy Atchley [a teacher at LES] that I helped with the 3- and 4-year-olds at North Delta in Batesville, and she asked if I would be interested in helping with her kindergarten class. I love it. I go one day each week to both Lafayette and North Delta. I love helping the kids with their reading and listening to them read. I like to help others – I feel like it’s something the Lord wants me to do. Q: Do the children ask about your crutches? A: I put the kids at ease with my crutches. I encourage them to ask me questions about it. There was one little girl who had a disability, and she and I connected. I see her sometimes, and we still have that connection. Q: What are some of your favorite books? A: I love to read. I like Karen Kingsbury, a Christian writer. For children’s books, I like to read the Biscuit series, and I also like the Berenstain Bears series. Q: Where did you live before Oxford? A: We lived in between Lambert and Crowder, in Quitman County. I enjoyed growing up in Quitman County, and I still have family there. I graduated from Delta Academy in Marks and Wood College in Mathiston. After I graduated, I helped at Delta Academy with the kindergarten through sixth-grade classes there. Coming to Oxford was a big change, but it’s nice. The people here are nice. I like it here a lot.
104
INVITATION OXFORD | August 2016