Invitation Oxford - February 2018

FEBRUARY 2018

Natural Pet Products

Mississippi MUTTS

Art from the Heart

Our team loves providing you with excellent customer service.

Cannon Chevrolet Buick Cadillac

Cannon Nissan of Oxford

662.234.2311 • 100 N Thacker Loop Oxford, MS

662.236.3300 • 479 Hwy 6 E Oxford, MS

NobodyBeatsACannonDeal.com

106 Pinecrest The Cannon Cleary Team of

Diamond & Platinum Club #1 RE/MAX Team in MS

5 Bed 4 Bath

$820,000

114 Sycamore St. Sardis, MS

166 Eagle Pointe Dr.

4 Bed 2 Bath

3 Bed 3 Bath

$375,000

$161,500

2014-2015-2016

(662) 234-5621

(Main Office)

Mark C. Cleary (713) 303-8924

Markccleary@gmail.com

Blake Cannon (662) 380-7144

Blake.OxfordVIP@gmail.com

148 Oxford Creek 4 Bed 2.5 Bath

Alison Alger (662) 832-1697

Alisonmalger@gmail.com

Lee Pittman (662) 645-3695

Lee.pittman1@gmail.com

112 Oxmoor $318,900

3 Bed 3.5 Bath

149 Oxford Creek

149 Soleil 3 Bed 2 Bath

$159,900

144 Oxford Creek $320,000

4 Bed 4 Bath

4 Bed 3.5 Bath

502 Creekside $469,000

18 CR 164 $405,000

4 Bed 4 Bath

3 Bed 3.5 Bath

$239,900

216 Sivley $419,000

Close to the Square!

$419,000

6.8 acres w/ pool!

120 Hot Spur Lane 4 Bed 4.5 Bath

0 CR 361//309 $335,000

242 (+/-) Acres

131 PR 3089 (Carrollton Condos)

145 Lakes Dr. South

2 Bed 2 Bath

4 Bed 3.5 Bath

$130,000

$1,200,000

970 Hwy 7 South Water Valley

911 Bonnie Blue

3 Bed 3 Bath

4 Bed 3 Bath

$387,500

218 Massee Circle

139 Edgewood $299,000

3 Bed 2.5 Bath

408 Highpointe $244,500

$190,000

4 Bed 4.5 Bath

3 Bed 3 Bath

$144,500

800 Park #2304 $204,900

3 Bed 3 Bath

$456,900

Search the entire Oxford Market at www.MarkClearyOxford.com and www.OxfordVip.com • 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.

Renderings are to be used for marketing purposes only and subject to change.

Harrison Square Mark C. Cleary (713) 303-8924

Oxford’s Premier Luxury Condominium Located in the Heart of Downtown Oxford. Just Steps from the Square!

HarrisonSquareOxford.com www.TheMillOxford.com

Starting in the mid $300,000’s Contact Mark Cleary (713) 303-8924

Luxury with Breathtaking Pat Lamar Park Views!

www.800Park.net www.TheMillOxford.com

Starting in the Mid $300’s Surrounded by the Country Club of Oxford Golf Course, Fairmont will be developed immediately adjacent to the fairway of Hole #2, and all condominiums will have pristine views onto the golf course. A 1.5 acre wooded preservation area will be created on the property to give the condominium owners a feeling of quiet solitude.

Access to the second and third floors will be provided with elevators and stairs.

www.FairmontOxford.com

Floor Plans Starting at $232,000 Oxford’s Newest Townhome Development! Located approximately 1.7 miles to the square and approximately 1.9 miles to Ole Miss The Mill offers 3 floor plans to choose from all featuring 3 Bed 3.5 Bath condos with a main level master, granite counter tops, hardwood floors, full stainless steel appliance package and so much more! Amenities accompanying your ownership at the Mill include a resort style pool, garden terrace, lake and lush landscaping.

Glen Alden

www.TheMillOxford.com

Starting in the low $300k’s

Conveniently located next to the Medical Park as well as just a few minutes from the Oxford Square and the Ole Miss campus. Spacious master bedroom and master bath with his/hers closets, hardwood floors, granite counter tops, stainless appliances!

www.GlenAldenOxford.com

Search the entire Oxford Market at www.MarkClearyOxford.com and www.OxfordVip.com • 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.

Renderings are to be used for marketing purposes only and subject to change.

We have performed over 15,000 endovenous laser procedures during our 10 years in business!

Michael Manning, MD & Cliff Adams, MD + VA R I C O S E V E I N S + SPIDER VEINS + V E N O U S U L C E R AT I O N S

Your Result is Our Reputation...

BEFORE

AFTER

Schedule your consultation today.

www.msvein.com

111 Fountains Boulevard Madison, Mississippi 39110 www.msvein.com | 601-707-7026

FEBRUARY 2018

28

FEBRUARY 2018

Natural Pet Products

Mississippi MUTTS

Art from the Heart

ON THE COVER Congratulations to this year’s pet cover contest winner. Fallon is a 1-year-old apricot labradoodle. You can read more about Fallon and her owner in Shoutouts on page 16. photographed by Joe Worthem

IN EVERY ISSUE

FEATURES

EVENTS

24 Pet Projects

48

Chamber Christmas Party

Commission a portrait to memorialize your beloved pet, or learn to paint one yourself.

50

Zeta Phi Beta Pageant

52

Women of Distinction Luncheon

28 Art from the Heart

54

Roxford University Winter Show

Vibrant paintings and beautiful cookies spread the love year-round.

56

Christmas at Camp

32 Mississippi MUTTS

58

Milk and Cookies with Santa

59

Junior Auxiliary Christmas Party

60

Holly Springs Holiday Events

62

Children’s Christmas Program

64

Oxford Christmas Parade

66

MSU vs. UM Basketball

10

Letter From the Publisher

12

Calendar

16

Shoutouts

18

InstaLove

22

In Season

Once a service station, this transformed space now sells flowers, live plants and home decor.

68

Out and About

40 Creature Comforts

72

I Am Oxford: Jasper

These four companies offer safe, surprising alternatives to ordinary pet products and practices.

ANNOUNCEMENTS 20

Johnston & Tatum

6 INVITATION OXFORD | February 2018

A new nonprofit animal rescue organization is saving lives litter by litter.

36 Fresh Finds at OIL Shed

46 On Location Oxford native Claire Howorth finds her niche at Time magazine.

22

24

72

February 2018 | INVITATION OXFORD

7

INTERVENTIONAL

PAIN MANAGEMENT Compassionate, patient-centered care for chronic pain sufferers.

VISIT

LifeLincPain.com

OUR SERVICES Conditions we treat include:

Our treatments include:

• • • • • • • • • •

• Epidural Steroid Injections • Facet Injections/Medial Branch Nerve Blocks • Radio Frequency Ablation Therapy • Genicular Nerve Blocks • Sacroiliac Joint Injections • Sympathetic Nerve Blocks • Management of Medications • Spinal Cord Stimulator Therapy • Botox Treatment for Chronic Migraines

Chronic Refractory Migraines Facial Pain Neck Pain Shoulder Pain Thoracic Spine Pain Lower Back/Lumbar Pain Hip and Knee Pain Post-Surgical Back Pain CRPS/RSD Fibromyalgia

2716 West Oxford Loop / Suite 171 Oxford, MS 38655

NOW OPEN! THANK YOU

FOR YOUR REFERRALS referrals@lifelinc.com Fax 662.243.5563

CALL TODAY 662.243.5802

THE PUBLISHER

I

PHOTOGRAPHED BY TED SMITS

had a kind and gentle dog growing up. She was a collie mix that my family and I rescued when I was 7. Her name was Snooky, the same nickname my grandmother was called affectionately by family and close friends.

Snooky was a good companion for me and my parents. She lived a long life, and we enjoyed her company, but that was really the extent of my love for animals.

Fast-forward 30 years, and meet my daughter, Mary Katherine, who is 6. She has never met a snake, rat, cat, horse, dog or bird she didn’t love. From the time she could talk she has always loved animals. She told me when she was 3 she wanted a dog. We’d go to Lamar Park just to visit with people walking their dogs. M.K.’s love and affection for all animals comes from something deep inside her that I’m learning to understand and appreciate.

We got her a dog when she turned 5, and she cried with joy. In April, she asked if she could take riding lessons, mainly because she was interested in the horses. She rarely misses her afternoons at the stables, and truthfully, she would go every day if we would allow her.

In August, while visiting some longtime family friends in Dallas, she was bitten by their dog. She cried a little but said she’d learned a lesson. I knew right then that this love she has for all animals is unwavering.

In this issue, as we celebrate pets, I realize how much a part of our lives animals are. No one knows that better than Britton Vaughn and Debbie Myers, who make their living painting and drawing animals and teaching others to do so. See their artistic creations on page 24.

And it’s evident to those of us here at Invitation Oxford that our readers and social media

followers sure love their pets. Hundreds entered their dogs and cats in our cover contest, and almost 1,000 voted for our four semifinalists.

Fallon, the cover winner, visited our office in mid-December to be photographed, and she couldn’t have been sweeter or more wellbehaved. We know you’ll want to read more about her on page 16.

This month we’ve also highlighted people who love things besides animals. Be sure to check out Sarah Hutto and Nicole Lamar’s

Welcome Allison Estes

creations, which are truly meaningful art from the heart.

We hope you’ll enjoy this issue. Whether you’re looking for ways to lavish love on a furry friend, or for delicious cookies that double as works of art, we are glad you are spending time with Invitation Oxford.

RACHEL M. WEST, PUBLISHER

OUR NEW EDITOR IN CHIEF

Allison Estes grew up in Oxford but lived in New York City for about 30 years, so she claims dual citizenship.

She’s the author of 17 books and several articles, a founding faculty member of New York Writers Workshop, and an adjunct professor in the Meek School of Journalism. Besides books, she loves kids, dogs and horses, so she has some of each. Sometimes she misses New York, but mostly she is pleased as punch to be back home and editor of Invitation Oxford. “You can take the girl out of the South. . . .”

10 INVITATION OXFORD | February 2018

INVITATION Oxford publishers

Phil and Rachel West

editorial

EDITOR IN CHIEF Allison Estes CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Emily Welly EVENTS EDITOR Mary Moreton STAFF WRITER Ginny Cooper McCarley CONTRIBUTING WRITER Sunny Baker Young SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR Katherine Henson COPY EDITOR Kate Johnson

advertising

ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS Alise M. Emerson Leigh Lowery Lynn McElreath Stacey Raper Moni Simpson Whitney Worsham ADVERTISING DESIGNERS Zach Fields Becca Pepper

art

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Hallie Thomas STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Joe Worthem CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Brittany Brown Amanda Cody Carina Marino Jessica Richardson Elizabeth Roberts Megan Wolfe Natalie Wood

production

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Emily Suber

office

BUSINESS MANAGER Hollie Hilliard 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 many diverse individuals and organizations who make up north Mississippi and strives to be inclusive and representative of all members of our community.

PLEASE RECYCLE THIS MAGAZINE

February 2018 | INVITATION OXFORD

11

calendar

2/16-17

Brett Young Concert

FEBRUARY 2018

This former baseball pitcher for Ole Miss and Fresno State is now a CMA New Artist of the Year nominee.

Tickets $25-$30, under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian over 21. $3 underage fee collected at the door (cash only).

Doors open at 8 p.m., show starts at 9 p.m., The Lyric Oxford. thelyricoxford.com

2/2

UM Museum First Friday Free Sketch Explore the galleries and try out the museum’s new sketching stools, provided by a grant from the Lafayette Oxford Foundation for Tomorrow. Free sketch materials available (first come, first served), or bring your own. All skill levels welcome.

10 a.m.-6 p.m. (drop-in), The University of Mississippi Museum.

2/7

Heart à la Carte Single Salad Supper Club Single women meet to discuss dating challenges and the book of the month. Free, just bring a salad to share. This month’s book is “Attached.

The New Science of Adult Attachment and How It Can Help You Find — and Keep — Love,” by Amir Levine and Rachel Heller.

6-8 p.m. Limited space, pre-registration required.

662-336-2220 liz@heartalacarte.com

2/8

Empty Bowls Lunch The annual Empty Bowls fundraiser benefits The Pantry. $20 admission includes a handmade bowl of your choosing (donated by the University of Mississippi Mud Daubers), soup, bread and water. Menu includes more than 20 soups provided by local restaurants.

11 a.m.-3 p.m., Oxford Conference Center.

2/22 th

11 Annual St. Jude Taste of Oxford

2/13

Jane Austen’s “Sense and Sensibility” Presented by Aquila Theatre

2/7-11 th

15 Oxford Film Festival More than 200 quality short and feature-length films from across the globe, plus panel discussions on issues in contemporary filmmaking.

Participants are invited to interact with filmmakers at a number of social events.

877-560-3456 (FILM) info@oxfordfilmfest.com

12 INVITATION OXFORD | February 2018

After the untimely and unexpected death of their father, two sisters and their mother are forced out when their half-brother and his wife inherit the family estate. Seduction, courtship, love, heartbreak and surprise abound in this classic romantic comedy.

Tickets $22-$30 7:30 p.m., Gertrude C. Ford Center for the Performing Arts.

662-915-2787 aquilatheatre.com fordcenter.org

Hosted by St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Culinary specialties by renowned Oxford area chefs, silent and live auctions, dancing and live entertainment. Admission $100. All proceeds support the mission of St. Jude: Finding cures.

Saving children.® Sponsor reception 6 p.m., event 7-10 p.m., The Jefferson Oxford. stjude.org/tasteofoxford

2/22-24

“Fiddler on the Roof” Presented by Oxford High School Based on a series of stories, “Tevye and his Daughters,” by Sholem Aleichem, this musical once held the record for the longest-running play on Broadway (10 years).

7:30 p.m., Kayla Mize Auditorium, Oxford Middle School.

662-234-1562 theatreohs@gmail.com

Ole Miss Men’s Basketball 2/6 Ole Miss vs. Missouri 8 p.m., The Pavilion.

2/13 Ole Miss vs. Arkansas 6 p.m., The Pavilion.

2/24 Ole Miss vs. Tennessee Noon, The Pavilion. olemisssports.com

Ole Miss Women’s Basketball 2/1 Ole Miss vs. Vanderbilt 6 p.m., The Pavilion.

2/11 Ole Miss vs. Alabama 2 p.m., The Pavilion.

2/19 Ole Miss vs. Georgia 6 p.m., The Pavilion.

2/22 Ole Miss vs. Kentucky 7:30 p.m., The Pavilion. olemisssports.com

Ole Miss Baseball 2/16-18, 20, 23-25, 27 The Rebels host Winthrop in the opening series of a 56-game slate, with 32 games at the newly renovated Oxford-University Stadium/Swayze Field, as well as 24 games against NCAA Tournament teams from last year. olemisssports.com February 2018 | INVITATION OXFORD

13

14 INVITATION OXFORD | February 2018

E XC E P T I O N A L F O O D , C A R E F U L LY C R A F T E D .

F O L L O W U S T O S TAY I N T H E L O O P ON SPECIALS & EVENTS!

7 0 5 S I S K AV E N U E , S U I T E 1 1 1 • 6 6 2 . 2 3 4 . 6 0 07 • S O U T H E R N C R A F T S T O V E A N D TA P. C O M

February 2018 | INVITATION OXFORD

15

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF OLE MISS ATHLETICS

shoutouts

FEBRUARY 2018 Ole Miss Women’s Volleyball In front of a season-high crowd of 1,012 at the Gillom Athletics Performance Center, the Rebels ended the year on a six-match winning streak and beat Texas Tech 3-0 (25-17, 25-15, 25-19) to win the National Invitational Volleyball Championship.

Under coach Steven McRoberts, the team has set several records this season. They ended the year 22-14, making this their fourth straight winning season for the first time in three decades and matching the most wins in the rally era (the Rebels also won 22 games in both 2014 and 2015). And they are the only SEC team with three players who have more than 300 digs and kills.

The Rebels also set academic records: The 3.41 Team Residential GPA is the highest ever recorded. Six made the Chancellor’s Honor Roll, the most in recorded history, while 13 made the Athletic Director’s Honor Roll and 81 percent of the team earned at least a 3.0 semester GPA.

Fallon, Our Pet Cover Contest Winner

Heart à la Carte Liz Grant was born on Valentine’s Day and grew up playing “Wedding Day” with three younger sisters. Like many, she was expected to uphold the legacy of being the “perfect” Southern woman, with the ideal man by her side. But after several relationships, including two divorces, and lots of work trying to understand not only what went wrong but also how to get it right, Grant has found her calling. She’s a relationship coach with her own dating consultation service, Heart à la Carte, located in the Edgar Building at 428 N. Lamar.

“There is no ‘perfect,’ ” according to Grant. “But there is a beautiful place in the middle, where we can live happy, productive lives — with the partner of our dreams.”

Grant works with women and men of all ages to create a plan of action to avoid dead-end relationships and end up with the right person. Her services include private coaching ($60 per hour), image makeovers, and a supper/book club for singles. She also offers a free 30-minute consultation to help with your profile on dating websites.

To schedule, call 662-336-2220 or visit heartalacarte.com.

16 INVITATION OXFORD | February 2018

We thought all the entries were super, but 1-year-old Fallon came in at the top. Fallon is a female apricot labradoodle, born Nov. 5, 2016.

“I’ve been a big fan of ‘The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon’ and thought ‘Fallon’ would be a cute name,” owner Holly Robinson said. “And she has a big, fun personality like him.”

Fallon’s favorite activities include chase and hide-and-seek, chewing on sticks, and playing with her best friend, Rudy, a collie mix. She can sit, shake, lie down and high-five.

“We are always learning a new trick,” Robinson said. “[Right now] I’m teaching her to ‘speak’ on command.”

Favorite treats? Anything and everything peanut butter. Fallon also loves Sonic ice and comes running when she hears the refrigerator ice machine.

Follow Fallon’s adventures on Instagram @fallon_doodle.

February 2018 | INVITATION OXFORD

17

THE FARMSTEAD OXFORD written by Ginny Cooper McCarley

V

ibrant photos of colorful blooms, rolling farmland and peaceful ponds make up the majority of The Farmstead’s Instagram page.

For Katherine Sharp, who operates the account, it’s a space to share all of the exciting things happening at The Farmstead on Woodson Ridge, just outside of town.

“The Farmstead is a pretty unique place,” Sharp said. “I’m focusing on showing the Oxford community all of the things we have going on. We’ve got a working flower and vegetable farm. We have weddings, cooking classes, lakeside luxury cottages. We’ve got quite the community out here.”

Sharp says she doesn’t have any professional photography experience, but finding beautiful shots is easy on the 138-acre farm.

Sharp runs Farmstead Florals, a 4-acre flower farm on the property that supplies florists in Oxford, Memphis and Jackson.

“I enjoy what I do and where I am,” Sharp said. “We’ve got a great thing going on here, so I’m always happy to share.”

FOLLOW ON INSTAGRAM

@thefarmsteadoxford

18 INVITATION OXFORD | February 2018

HUGE Truck Month Savings on America’s longest lasting trucks.

Nobody does Truck Month like Allen Samuels!

Come by...Let’s be friends East University Ave. (near Kroger)

• 662-234-8000 or 888-481-1397 • AllenSamuelsOxford.net

1223 JACKSON AVE E. | OXFORD, MS 662.236.3977 | SOMETHINGSOUTHERNONLINE.COM

February 2018 | INVITATION OXFORD

19

PHOTOGRAPHED BY TAYLOR SQUARE PHOTOGRAPHY

MAEGAN LEIGH JOHNSTON & JIM Q. “J.Q.” TATUM IV

r. and Mrs. William L. Johnston of Decatur, Mississippi, are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter, Maegan Leigh, to Jim Q. “J.Q.” Tatum IV, son of Mr. and Mrs. Jim Q. Tatum III of Taylor.

Maegan received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Mississippi, where she is currently pursuing a doctoral degree in counselor education and supervision.

She is a licensed professional counselor and works as a school-based therapist in the Oxford community, and as a graduate instructor and counselor for the Center for Student Success and First Year Experience.

J.Q. received his bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from the University of Mississippi.

He is an engineering technician for the Mississippi Department of Transportation.

Maegan and J.Q. will exchange vows in Taylor this spring.

20 INVITATION OXFORD | February 2018

SculpSure™ • MonaLisa Touch • Pregnancy Care • 3D/4D Ultrasound Bladder Function Testing • Well Women Visits • da Vinci Robotic Surgery

M. Glenn Hunt, MD • Katie Sabatier, CNM, WHNP • Gregory O. Patton, MD • Julie G. Harper, MD • E. Kaitlyn Mize, MD

1204 Medical Park Drive • Oxford, MS • 662.236.5717 • OxfordOBGYN.com

At BancorpSouth, we’ve been helping people buy and renovate their homes for over 140 years. We offer a variety of mortgage types, and our mortgage lenders will help to ensure the process is painless. Plus, we feature an easy-to-use website with an online mortgage calculator and application. When you want to turn a house into your home, you need someone you can trust.

Front Row L-R: Amy Hartley (NMLS #967008) Caroline Rosser (NMLS #1177595) Back Row L-R: Michael Williamson (NMLS #1253908) Tammy Webb (NMLS #1121334) Oxford Main | 517 S Lamar Blvd | (662) 281-3813

February 2018 | INVITATION OXFORD

21

ON A ROLL

written by Sunny and Eli Baker photographed by Joe Worthem

22 INVITATION OXFORD | February 2018

Easy Weeknight Veggie Fried Rice

On a Roll favorites include both savory and sweet. Left: The “Famous” Original with turkey and cabbage. Clockwise from above: V’s Viva la Veggie with spinach, black beans and corn; Kenric’s Kik’n Buffalo Chik’n; Craving Cheesecake.

O

xford’s most popular egg rolls began as a family affair. Lisa BlackmonMiller’s sister-in-law taught her the family recipe before she left to serve in Afghanistan, and her passion for spreading happiness through food blossomed into a tasty business catering to the Oxford community.

Blackmon-Miller has opened a pop-up restaurant on University Avenue near County Road 334: On a Roll Gourmet Egg Rolls.

Blackmon-Miller’s specialty is her unique flavors and concepts. “My wheels are ever turning to create new flavors,” she said. “Whatever we are having for dinner, I try to see if I can stuff it in an egg roll.”

On a Roll offers more than 30 kinds of

made-from-scratch savory and sweet egg rolls, including Mac-n-Cheese and the “Famous” Original. Many others are seasonal, like the Southern Belle Pecan Pie. “Also, we love to receive suggestions from our customers,” Blackmon-Miller said. “And if it works, we name it after the customer.”

Blackmon-Miller plans to go mobile with On a Roll this spring and eventually open in a permanent location. She has been surprised by the community’s overwhelmingly positive reception. “We knew Oxford was a great town for niche concepts, but I would never have imagined the amount of support,” she said.

This easy fried rice makes a great accompaniment to On A Roll’s specialty egg rolls:

2 Tablespoons sesame oil 1 small white onion, chopped 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed 2 eggs, lightly beaten 3 cups cooked rice* 2-3 Tablespoons soy sauce (more or less to taste) 2 Tablespoons chopped green onions (optional) Heat a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Pour sesame oil in the bottom. Add white onion and peas and carrots, and fry until tender. Slide the onion, peas and carrots to the side, and pour the beaten eggs onto the other side. Using a spatula, scramble the eggs.

Once cooked, mix the eggs with the vegetable mix. Add the rice to the veggie and egg mixture. Pour the soy sauce on top. Stir and fry the rice and veggie mixture until heated through and combined. Add chopped green onions, if desired. *For the best rice consistency, use day-old rice, or chill freshly cooked rice before adding.

February 2018 | INVITATION OXFORD

23

PHOTOGRAPHED BY JOE WORTHEM

These artists capture people’s pets in lifelike portraits filled with personality. written by Ginny Cooper McCarley

Watercolorist Debbie Myers teaches several art classes at the Powerhouse Community Art Center. Students in Myers’ classes practice various techniques, such as painting from an upsidedown image, which can help achieve more accurate reproduction.

A

n art teacher and a graphic designer have each found a calling in helping people memorialize their beloved pets.

Debbie Myers’ Winsome Watercolor Portraits When a group of longtime students expressed interest in learning to paint pictures of their pets, Debbie Myers decided to teach a class covering the process from start to finish.

“I teach several beginner watercolor classes at the Powerhouse,” Myers explained. “I have to keep adding classes because people want to keep painting, which is great.”

By the end of the four-week course, each student had a completed a watercolor portrait that was ready to take home and frame.

Lynn Wells, a participant in the class, painted a portrait of her son’s springer spaniel,

24 INVITATION OXFORD | February 2018

Scout. “There is motion in the way her ruff is blowing across her face,” Wells said of her portrait. “As with all great water dogs, she is not bothered and is just awaiting her next command. This is an amazing breed. I raised my children with a springer named Molly and in turn, my son raised Scout as their family dog.”

Wells gave the portrait to her son for Christmas. The gift turned out to be particularly poignant because Scout died in early December at the age of 16.

For Myers, who has been painting commemorative pet portraits for family members for years, the eyes of the pet are the most important part to get just right.

“The eyes in a pet are the window into their soul, so there are certain things you kind of need to get just right, like the light reflec-

tion,” Myers said. “The nose and the mouth are also really important when you’re painting a pet.”

Myers began teaching art classes in Oxford when she retired to the area with her husband in 2009, but she has always been an artist. She earned a degree in graphic design from Arkansas State University and taught art in Memphis schools.

“I’ve always enjoyed teaching,” Myers said.

“I may not be the world’s best watercolorist, but I can teach you the techniques and you can develop them on your own.”

When she isn’t painting or teaching others how to paint, you can find Myers with her own pet, Missi, an 11-pound bichpoo.

“She’s very much a lap dog and a love dog, and she’s spoiled rotten,” Myers said, laughing.

“The eyes in a pet are the window into their soul, so there are certain things you kind of need to get just right, like the light reflection.” -Debbie Myers

February 2018 | INVITATION OXFORD

25

Britton Vaughn’s Traditional and Digital Portraits Britton Vaughn’s first pet portrait was an oil painting of her parents’ West Highland terrier, Eli, she made as a Christmas present.

“After that, it kind of just started,” Vaughn said. “It took off by word of mouth. Everyone saw [the painting] and asked for one.”

Vaughn, who earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the University of Mississippi and now works as a graphic designer, said the best part of doing pet portraits is the stories she gets to hear about the animals.

“I get the best stories out of it,” she said.

“Many of the dogs have passed away, and [with a portrait] you actually get to see their face in a memorable way. It’s so special; many were family dogs that everyone grew up with.”

Though she began by painting traditional oil portraits, Vaughn now also offers Pet Pixels.

These fun, vibrantly colored pieces allow Vaughn to create digital portraits of a pet in three or four hours instead of weeks.

“Pet Pixels are something that is just really fun for me,” Vaughn said. “I get to use all of these great colors. They are all hand drawn. I use a tablet, and I draw your pet with a pen and then pick all these fun colors that fill the space.

I can get it immediately printed and ready to ship, but it is all still hand done by me.”

26 INVITATION OXFORD | February 2018

Britton Vaughn’s classic oil portraits depict pets in traditional noble or playful poses. Her Pet Pixels digital portraits take a few hours to create and capture pets in an arresting, colorful style.

Though Vaughn spends weeks painting an oil portrait, she finds the process relaxing. Part of the pleasure, she says, is working with her clients to capture the spirit of the animal she is painting.

“I try to capture the soul of the animal that I’m looking at,” she said. “It might sound silly, but it’s really true. I talk to my clients, and

I try to breathe life into my paintings. I love having my hands in the paint and the physical mixing of the colors. It’s almost meditative or cathartic. You lose yourself.”

Besides the creative process, Vaughn says the best part of painting pet portraits is seeing the emotional reaction her clients have when they see a beloved pet memorialized.

February 2018 | INVITATION OXFORD

27

art From the heart

Oxford artists take pride in Valentine-themed creations, from colorful cookies to whimsical paintings.

written by Ginny Cooper McCarley photographed by Joe Worthem

28 INVITATION OXFORD | February 2018

Sarah Hutto’s Cookie Canvas

Sarah Hutto began baking and decorating cookies out of necessity: She was living in Meridian and couldn’t find anyone to make cookies to match the “Where the Wild Things Are” theme of her son’s first birthday party.

“I just told myself that I was going to make these cookies,” Hutto said. “I watched YouTube, and I practiced. I would just do it for fun.”

Hutto took a break from baking to concentrate on a move to Oxford. Then, in December of 2016, she donned her chef ’s hat again and started rolling out the cookie dough. When she began posting pictures of her creations on social media, the positive response was immediate and overwhelming.

“I just did it for fun, but people started asking for them,” Hutto said. “It was becoming a weekly thing, so I legitimized it.”

Hutto has been in business only since June, but she has already shipped cookies to states all over the country, including California, Georgia and Texas.

The biggest boon for her cookie company, though, was when Hutto got to create cookies for the cast of the popular TV series “Gilmore Girls” at the Gilmore Girls Fan Fest. After seeing a post on her Instagram page featuring a “Gilmore Girls”-themed cookie she’d decorated, organizers for the festival reached out and asked

Left: Sarah Hutto with a tray of her almost-too-pretty-to-eat cookies. Above: Hearts and flowers with sweet or sassy messages make perfect Valentine’s Day treats. Or, bite into a shark with a toothy grin or a cute and thorny cactus.

if she’d like to create cookies for the event.

“I got to hand deliver them and meet a couple of the cast and crew,” Hutto said. “It was amazing. It’s pretty much my favorite show of all time.”

Hutto’s cookies are a real labor of love. She spends about four days perfecting each batch.

On day one, Hutto makes the dough and the colored icing, which she lets sit overnight to become more vibrant. The next three days are spent decorating with layers of color and intricate details.

Some effects call for piped-on icing in different consistencies. Sometimes she’ll paint the cookies for a watercolor effect or add edible details like glitter or metallic dusts.

“Creating cookies is a long process, but every step really makes it look totally different,”

she said. “I love getting to put extra details [on my cookies].”

Though Hutto will continue to take custom orders on a local level, she is moving away from shipping cookies and focusing instead on teaching cookie workshops around town and at birthday parties.

“Cookie workshops are great, because it’s something you can take home and re-create,” she said. With some basic skills, people can go home and make their own.

For Valentine’s Day, Hutto loves to add edible gold and silver to her cookies. She also plans to hold a flash sale, where she will make a large batch of cookies and sell them to customers on a first-come, first-served basis.

“I just love doing that kind of stuff,” Hutto said. “Valentine’s Day is so fun.”

February 2018 | INVITATION OXFORD

29

Nicole Lamar’s Heart Paintings

Nicole Lamar’s paintings of hearts hang all around town: There are three large ones in Oxford Urgent Care, several hanging in the Children’s Dental Center, and a slew for sale at Oxford Floral.

You might even catch a glimpse of her artwork on a trip to Memphis. When Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital renovated its Memphis location, they bought 20 paintings from Lamar to brighten the halls. Several also hang in the office of Memphis Pediatric Heart.

Lamar’s paintings are bright, graphic and lots of fun, a motif that began when her children were in preschool.

“My art has always been centered around my family and around my children,” she said.

“I really started my whimsical theme when my children were at Willie Price [Lab School].”

Her affinity for hearts in her art was inspired by her children as well. While expecting her second child, Lamar began creating pieces for a solo exhibit at City Grocery. A motherhood theme emerged, along with images of hearts.

“It just kind of grew out of that, and now it is my signature,” she said. “It’s what people ask for, so that’s how it developed.”

Lamar, who has a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the University of Mississippi, has been painting for as long as she can remember.

She comes from a talented family: Her grandfather and mother were artistic, and her twin sister is a cartoonist. She describes her style as impressionistic, happy and joyful. Acrylics are her medium of choice, but she likes to experiment with other media as well.

30 INVITATION OXFORD | February 2018

Nicole Lamar’s heart paintings seem to radiate playfulness and joy. Several hang in businesses around Oxford, and dozens grace the halls of Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital and Memphis Pediatric Heart.

“Color is very important to me, just layers and layers of color,” Lamar said. “I almost always use acrylics, but I’ll use whatever is in front of me. I paint with my hands a lot. It’s very free, and I’m a free spirit for sure. Nothing is ever perfect, ever, ever. It’s fun, and I think I started enjoying [painting] more when I realized it wasn’t going to be perfect, but it was going to be fun with lots of color.”

Lamar’s paintings are available locally at

Oxford Floral, where she worked for 19 years.

In fact, the first heart Lamar ever painted was on a T-shirt she designed for the shop years ago. “[Oxford Floral] is very supportive of what I do,” Lamar said. “It’s pretty much the only place in Oxford I sell my work.”

Not surprisingly, her paintings tend to be more in demand in February, so Oxford Floral will be well stocked. “They’ll be chock-full for Valentine’s Day,” Lamar said.

February 2018 | INVITATION OXFORD

31

Mississippi MUTTS

written by Ginny Cooper McCarley photographed by Jordan Evans

A new nonprofit organization finds homes for unwanted dogs and cats.

Sixty-eight yapping puppies and eight kittens, all snuggled in small carriers, were loaded up on a brisk Saturday afternoon, bound for new homes in northern Virginia thanks to the efforts of the Mississippi Underdog Transport Team.

Mississippi MUTTS is a nonprofit founded by Katie Muldoon to help ease the problem of overcrowding in local animal shelters. The organization facilitates the rescue, foster, transport and adoption of animals from all over the state. Since its launch in mid-August, Mississippi MUTTS has saved the lives of nearly 400 dogs and cats.

Muldoon, a feisty and driven law school graduate, has always had a desire to help animals. During her time as a student at the University of Mississippi School of Law, she served as a board member and adoption counselor at the Oxford-Lafayette Humane Society and started a local chapter of the Student Animal Legal Defense Fund. She also interned for both the ASPCA and the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine in Washington, D.C. Though she enjoyed her work on Capitol Hill, Muldoon decided to come back to Oxford, where the need was greatest.

“I realized that Mississippi is really where

I needed to be,” Muldoon said. “There were literally lives being lost in the time being, so I just looked at the situation and thought, why not now.”

Younger animals are more susceptible to the diseases rampant in crowded shelters, and therefore are more likely to have to be euthanized. Muldoon’s idea was to bypass the shelter and send these youngsters directly to foster or forever homes, saving lives and freeing up valuable space and resources for other animals.

A small group of volunteers handles the daily operation of the organization and helps with transportation efforts. Volunteer Tamara

Above: A pen full of puppies wait their turn to be loaded into carriers and transported to foster families in Virginia. Shelters there have far fewer young animals up for adoption, so the demand for puppies and kittens is greater.

32 INVITATION OXFORD | February 2018

Austin first found out about Mississippi MUTTS after rescuing a very sick little kitten she named Jack. Though Jack had already contracted feline infectious peritonitis, a progressive and fatal disease, Muldoon helped Austin make Jack’s last days peaceful.

Inspired by Muldoon, Austin has been volunteering with Mississippi MUTTS since September. So far, she has helped save 10 kittens and five dogs through the foster program.

“Without [MUTTS], who knows what would have happened to those kittens and dogs,” Austin said. “There are loving arms just waiting for them [in Virginia].”

Above: Katie Muldoon offers a comforting hug and goodbye kiss; kittens ready for transport.

February 2018 | INVITATION OXFORD

33

Transporting the animals to Virginia is an effective solution, Muldoon notes. Most pet owners in Virginia spay or neuter their animals, so shelters there have fewer puppies and kittens available for adoption.

“The adoption network up there is something we can’t imagine down here,” Muldoon said. “There are puppies and kittens that people don’t want down here, and there are people [in Virginia] waiting to spoil them rotten.”

Though MUTTS is still a fledgling organi-

34 INVITATION OXFORD | February 2018

zation, support from the community has been astounding. Hometown Storage and Cannon Motors have helped with the transport vans.

On a recent transport day, Great American Cookies donated dog-bone-shaped cookies for volunteers.

Angie Sicurezza, co-owner of Grit restaurant, and her husband, Nick Reppond, were one of the first MUTTS foster families. In November, the couple hosted a fundraiser for the organization at Plein Air in Taylor. The first

Muttvember Fest raised more than $2,000 for Mississippi MUTTS. “[The support] has been overwhelming,” Muldoon said. “It is just incredible to watch people who love animals donate their time and see animals benefit from it. That is what we wanted all along.”

Above: Volunteers and attendees mingle with adorable pets up for adoption at the Muttvember Fest at Plein Air in Taylor. The event, with food donated by Grit restaurant, raised more than $2,000 for Mississippi MUTTS.

February 2018 | INVITATION OXFORD

35

Fresh Finds à OIL Shed

36 INVITATION OXFORD | February 2018

A new shop aims to help customers refresh their homes with flowers, plants and eye-catching decor. written by Ginny Cooper McCarley photographed by Joe Worthem

K

ecia Kirk and Wendy Carmean first began discussing Oxford Interior Landscapes during their weekly Friday-morning walks.

They wanted to open the kind of store they’d enjoy frequenting: a friendly space filled with live plants and one-of-a-kind decorating items.

Carmean (opposite page, on the left) was a natural fit to run the shop, as Kirk (on the right) is very busy with her job as a family physician. Her mother once owned a flower shop, and Carmean has worked for florists all over the state. “It was all [Kirk’s] vision,” Carmean said. “She asked me to help her, and I thought, why not.”

The building has a storied life: Years ago, it was an actual oil shed for the gas station in front. It has also been a bookstore, a taekwondo studio and a crawfish hut. With a few additions, some tin and lots of paint, the duo transformed the space into a cozy store full of perfectly curated plants, containers, seasonal flowers, unique gifts, and home accents.

“I always thought there was a need in Oxford for a place to get live plants,” Kirk said.

“We do so much entertaining here, it’s a nice way to be able to refresh your house and make it look inviting.”

OIL Shed has a “flower bar,” where customers can bring their own containers to be filled with flowers and plants or put together their own arrangements.

The space also serves as a venue for flower workshops, during which floral designers guide participants as they craft their own arrangements, enjoy refreshments and learn about the plants they’re working with.

During the first workshop, held Dec. 5 with floral designer and author John Grady Burns, participants created holiday masterpieces using evergreens and succulents.

“We couldn’t have asked for a better first workshop. The attendees were engaged and took home some amazing pieces. We will definitely continue with other workshops, and we’ll explore different areas of home, floral and plant decor,” Carmean said.

A mix of classy and kitschy home decor, artwork and furnishings “grow” among potted orchids, ferns, cacti and other perennials. The shop also sells containers of all sorts, from wooden boxes to driftwood to playful or more formal ceramics.

February 2018 | INVITATION OXFORD

37

Top: A mélange of greenery and gifts welcomes visitors to the shop. Above left: A white phalaenopsis “moth orchid,” one of many beautiful and exotic blooming plants that are also surprisingly easy to grow. Above right: Deer antlers enhance a display of unusual jewelry and metal gifts.

38 INVITATION OXFORD | February 2018

Opening Soon!

For Cyndi Savage, who attended the event, the best part of the workshop was learning how to style two types of plants she would not normally have combined.

“John Grady Burns did a fabulous job of mixing two very different plants in an arrangement for the holidays,” Savage said.

“I’ve always thought of the succulent as being a sort of summer, arid, even desert-type plant. I would have never thought about putting it into a holiday arrangement.”

In addition to carrying a wide range of live plants, the store aims to stock hard-to-find items like jewelry, pots and home decor.

“The goal is to get stuff here you can’t get anywhere else,” Carmean explained.

Kirk, who does the majority of the buying for OIL Shed, hunts for antiques and vintage goods with a variety of price points. “She’s a buyer extraordinaire,” Carmean said. “She’s got patience and great taste, and she can really scour and find fantastic things.”

Though the store is new, the response from both the community and other businesses has been great, Kirk and Carmean agree. They have enjoyed fulfilling their mission of brightening people’s homes.

“You spend so much time at home, looking at the same things. We’re excited to offer a different perspective,” Kirk said. “This is a great place to get a quick, not terribly expensive spruce-up. You’re giving yourself something different to look at.”

Carmean agreed: “It’s a form of self-care.”

We’re excited to announce that the first Gallery of the Mary Buie wing is almost ready for debut. The recently renovated 1939 building will house a redesigned exhibition of The David M. Robinson Memorial Collection of Greek and Roman Antiquities.

The University of Mississippi Museum and Historic Houses MUSEUM @UNIVERSITY AND 5th

M U S E U M . O L E M I S S . E D U

|

•

R OWA N OA K

662.915.7073

Tues.–Sat. 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Closed every Sunday and Monday along with most University Holidays. For assistance related to a disability call 662.915.7073.

Located inside the Oxford Baptist Hospital February 2018 | INVITATION OXFORD

39

creature comfortS Keep your critters healthy and comfy with these safe, surprising alternatives to ordinary products and practices. written by Allison Estes

T

hanks to current research and the growing tide of public awareness, natural, nontoxic, responsibly sourced products are more and more in demand. Here are a few companies offering eco- and pet-friendly choices we think stand out in the crowd.

Kengro Corp.

The Brasher family (pictured above) in Charleston, Mississippi, grows and manufactures eco-friendly agricultural goods from the kenaf plant, a cousin of cotton, okra and hibiscus. It also happens to be one of the most absorbent natural fibers in existence.

While the dried, processed core of the plant is used chiefly in cleaning up oil spills, Kengro also makes three types of plant-based pet litter and bedding.

40 INVITATION OXFORD | February 2018

Bayou Boy Premium Reptile Bedding is pathogen-free and recommended for burrowing snakes and nondesert lizards. The Bayou Boy Reptile Mat is a nonabrasive terrarium liner that’s also safe for tortoises and many other snake species.

Cat Lady Premium Cat Litter looks different from clay litters, and it is. It’s chemical-free and won’t irritate declawed paws. There’s no harmful silica dust to inhale, and no sodium bentonite, the clumping agent thought to cause gastrointestinal distress when ingested by cats licking their paws. Naturally occurring

microbes in the kenaf fibers break down ammonia-producing bacteria, neutralizing odors.

It lasts up to three weeks and is completely biodegradable and compostable. (Because it’s lightweight, you may need to transition your cat by mixing with clay litter for a few days.)

Dr. Hemp Premium Pet Bedding, made from chemical-free industrial hemp, is safe for rabbits and other small mammals, birds and reptiles. It’s a low-dust, low-palatability alternative to wood-based bedding. Replace every six to eight weeks.

All three are wallet-friendly and last much longer than competing products.

FOR MORE INFO, VISIT

kengropet.com

February 2018 | INVITATION OXFORD

41

hollywood feed The original store opened on Hollywood Street in Memphis more than half a century ago and has offered friendly, knowledgeable service and high-quality natural and holistic pet foods, treats and accessories ever since. Of special note, the company carries “Made in� products sourced entirely in the U.S. and produced locally.

Mississippi Made dog beds and collars are produced in Verona from Mississippi Delta cotton fabric printed in Sherman. Stuffed with recycled fiber filling, the snooze pads and bed covers are stain resistant, durable and machine washable. The collars are made from remnants of the same fabric used to make the beds.

Georgia Made jerky and Memphis Made bow ties and flowers are locally produced treats and accessories for dogs and cats.

Daily Blessings Farm Handcrafted Artisan K9 Soap with lavender, aloe and clay is made exclusively for Hollywood Feed. The familyrun goat farm in Hernando makes goat-milk skin care products for humans, as well as pet shampoo, fur spritzer and paw butter with pure oils and butters that are gentle on skin and fur, five-free and sourced from U.S. suppliers.

FOR MORE INFO, VISIT

hollywoodfeed.com dailyblessingsfarm.com 42 INVITATION OXFORD | February 2018

#1 Re/Max Team in Mississippi 2014 - 2016 The Cannon Cleary Team of RE/MAX Legacy Realty (662) 234-5621

Main Office (Ask for Blake or Mark)

Mark C. Cleary (713) 303-8924

markccleary@gmail.com

Briarwood

Blake Cannon (662) 380-7144

blake.oxfordvip@gmail.com

Starting at $159,900 Oxford & Lafayette Schools!

Alison Alger (662) 832-1697

alisonmalger@gmail.com

Oakmont

Lee Pittman (662) 645-3695

Lee.pittman1@gmail.com

Phase 1 Starting at $249,900!

Phase 2 Starting at $349,900!

OakmontOxford.com Home shown is very similar to what is offered in Briarwood

Home shown is very similar to what is offered in Oakmont

Search the entire Oxford Market at www.MarkClearyOxford.com and www.OxfordVip.com • 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.

Renderings are to be used for marketing purposes only and subject to change.

February 2018 | INVITATION OXFORD

43

doc & phoebe’s cat co.

Cats can be the sweetest and cuddliest creatures — then suddenly turn into anklebiting demons who shred the furniture, go outside the litter box and torture their owners at night. Research now suggests that all these behaviors can be related to how cats eat.

“The feeding needs of dogs and cats are very different,” said Dr. Liz Bales, veterinarian and co-founder of Doc & Phoebe’s.

Dogs evolved to eat large, infrequent meals, but cats naturally eat several small meals a day. A cat’s stomach is about the size of a PingPong ball, so large meals can cause them to “scarf and barf.” Plus, cats are hardwired to hunt their food. Stalking, catching and playing with prey provides much-needed exercise and mental stimulation. Deprived cats may get too

44 INVITATION OXFORD | February 2018

fat and sleep all the time, or act out their frustrated hunting instincts in unwelcome ways.

“Bowl feeding is overfeeding your cat’s body, while leaving its predatory soul starved,” Bales said.

Doc & Phoebe’s Indoor Hunting Feeder is an innovative feeding system designed by Bales and partner Phebe Kearney that allows cats to satisfy their predatory instincts and eat the way nature intended. The mouse-shaped feeders are simple to use; ­just fill them with kibble and hide them around your house. Kitties can hunt to their heart’s content, get more exercise and let the humans get some sleep.

Ellen Kellum of Oxford uses the feeding system with her two indoor cats. One of them was a “scarf and barfer,” but she says the feeders have brought that to a halt.

“My cats took to these very quickly,” Kellum said. “It’s sort of like an Easter egg hunt for them and for us. It keeps them happily occupied at night when we sleep, and instead of competing for food they are able to individually get what they want when they want it.”

Doc & Phoebe’s won the Cat Friendly Award from the International Veterinary Organization and SuperZoo’s Best New Cat Product award, and was featured in The New York Times, The Daily Mail, Business Insider and Veterinary Practice News. The feeders are made of vegan textiles and BPA-free, foodgrade plastic.

FOR MORE INFO, VISIT

docandphoebe.com

engagement

THIRD PAGE ($50); Includes one photo and up to 150 words

wedding

HALF PAGE ($90); Includes one photo and up to 200 words FULL PAGE ($150); Includes three photos and up to 300 words TWO PAGES ($275); Includes five photos and up to 500 words FOR MORE INFORMATION, call (662) 234-4008 or email emilysuber.invitationoxford@gmail.com.

February 2018 | INVITATION OXFORD

45

on location with

CLAIRE HOWORTH

written by Ginny Cooper McCarley

An Oxford native finds her niche in New York.

A recent Time magazine cover story that grew out of a survey of nearly 1,000 mothers was inspired by Oxford native Claire Howorth’s own experience with mother­ hood. As assistant managing editor at Time, Howorth only writes pieces herself when she is “really moved” by a subject. Of particular interest to her are political pieces from all viewpoints, stories about motherhood, and important writing by and about women.

“The Goddess Myth: How a Vision of Perfect Motherhood Hurts Moms” explores the pressure new mothers often feel to conform to an ideal version of motherhood, which often doesn’t turn out to be possible, no matter how much they plan. Mothers who have medical interventions or formula-feed their babies often suffer enormous guilt. Howorth writes, “. . . many mothers I spoke to talked about their introductions to motherhood in the language of failure.”

The article draws on the results of the Time survey, posts from social media, and interviews with mothers and health experts.

“It took about as much time as gestating a baby,” Howorth said. “I started 10 months ago. It grew out of my own feelings. I wanted to explore them, and from there, it just grew and grew.”

The article struck a chord with readers: On Twitter, the article was shared and retweeted by mothers and others who recognized the truth in Howorth’s words. “The feedback has been really amazing,” she said. “I heard from a lot of moms who felt they were given a voice and a bit of solace and company in the difficulty that is motherhood.”

Mothering her own daughter, Mae, born three years ago, has influenced Howorth’s writing. Her article “I Bullied Myself Into

46 INVITATION OXFORD | February 2018

Claire Howorth with her 3-year-old daughter, Mae. Howorth’s recent Time cover story, “The Goddess Myth: How a Vision of Perfect Motherhood Hurts Moms,” resonated with readers.

Breastfeeding,” written shortly after Mae’s birth, chronicles her struggles with the pressure to exclusively breastfeed despite numerous challenges.

“When you become a mom, it becomes part of your identity,” Howorth said. “Traditionally my identity has played into my writing in some way. Motherhood, culture, style . . . those are things I’m interested in, and therefore they interest me to write about.”

It might seem that Howorth was destined to work with words. As the daughter of Square Books proprietors Richard and Lisa Howorth, she spent her young life surrounded by literature. However, Howorth’s interest in journalism was piqued as a student at Oxford High School.

“My passion for magazine writing, media and journalism started in OHS in Ms. Fitts’

journalism class,” she said. “Beth Fitts has taught generations of passionate journalism students. She taught me things that I still remember and style rules that I still apply to this day. I think about her often.”

Howorth majored in English at the University of Colorado Boulder and began her career in book publishing at Grove Atlantic, although her journalism career really began with a job as editorial associate at Vanity Fair.

As a freelance writer and editor, she worked for a number of publications, including The New York Times Magazine, The Wall Street Journal, and Garden & Gun, before joining Time.

“Time is amazing,” Howorth said. “It’s this magnificent institution, with an enormous reach to all kinds of people across the country.

My colleagues are driven and talented. It’s a great place to work.”

INVITATION Oxford Follow Invitation Oxford on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook to find out what’s happening around Oxford.

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM @invitationoxford

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @invoxford Facebook “f ” Logo

CMYK / .eps

Facebook “f ” Logo

CMYK / .eps

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK facebook.com/invitationoxford February 2018 | INVITATION OXFORD

47

View more photos at invitationoxford.com.

EDF/CHAMBER OF COMMERCE PARTY

The LOU-area EDF/Chamber of Commerce Christmas party was held Dec. 14 at the Oxford University Club and featured food and live music. photographed by Amanda Cody

Hannah Moses and Jacob Cook

Jordan Carter, Heather Cray and Michael Satterfield

Sally Williams with Frances and Hume Bryant

Olivia Bradley and Paul Radigan with Sarah Kathryn and Chris Sanchez

Cassidy and Mark Shoemake

48 INVITATION OXFORD | February 2018

Megan Christian and Cindy Kirk

Marylin Barnes and Teandra Jones

David and Kay Guyton with Larry Veasey

Greg and Susan Vaughn with Hittie and Bill Adams

Jan and Bill Henning

Doing a Better Job for Over

70 Years!

Contact us at 662.234.2941

1328 North Lamar, Oxford, MS 38655 • www.browninsurance.biz February 2018 | INVITATION OXFORD

49

View more photos at invitationoxford.com.

ZETA PHI BETA SORORITY DEBUTANTE PAGEANT

The Mu Chi Zeta chapter of Zeta Phi Beta sorority held its annual debutante pageant Dec. 2 at Springhill Baptist Church. Guests enjoyed food, music and dancing. photographed by Megan Wolfe

Amber Pettis and Nashala Joseph

Kenyan and Ken’Nia Frierson

Lewis and Shamia Wadley

Valerie Morgan, Denise Fondren and Ava Jackson

50 INVITATION OXFORD | February 2018

Robert and Raven Chatman

February 2018 | INVITATION OXFORD

51

View more photos at invitationoxford.com.

WOMEN OF DISTINCTION LUNCHEON The Girl Scouts Heart of the South hosted the seventh annual Women of Distinction luncheon Nov. 15 at First Baptist Church in Oxford. photographed by Megan Wolfe

Samantha DeFeo and Allison Bonner

Cheryl Cannon with Hugh and Cathy Ross

Freddie Harris, Brian Vonderheide and Glenn Baggett

Julia Grant and Eliza Williams

52 INVITATION OXFORD | February 2018

S. Adams and Susan Hayman

Sue Keiser, Mary Haskell and Elizabeth Heiskell

Annabella Ware, Sawyer Ward, Sara Brooke Ivy and Maddie Harwood

Taylor Farmer and Cosette Hawkinson

Ann Devoe, Camie Bianco and Julie Field

Doug and Betty Bloom

February 2018 | INVITATION OXFORD

53

View more photos at invitationoxford.com.

ROXFORD UNIVERSITY WINTER SHOWCASE

Roxford University held its winter showcase on Dec. 14 at the Lyric with student performances. photographed by Amanda Cody

Max Hill, Silas Caldwell and Tucker Bridgers

Kelly and Jack Fenwick

Laura Antonow and Jayden Ivy

Hannah Harper, Madeline Gain, Tacie Mott and Emery Kate Schneider

Alice Wilkes and Elise Waldrop

54 INVITATION OXFORD | February 2018

Jeffrey and Tyler Kuntz

Nick Spiller and Keelan Case

Amy Wilkes and Ashley Moss

Olivia Cate, Chuck, Graham, Elizabeth and Bramlett Sherman

Diane and Augusta Scruggs

Tyler Huertas and Jeff Davis

244 Country Club Road Batesville Batesville 4BR 4.5 Baths

Visit: www.MollyHawkins.net

20-Acre Golf Course Estate!

Just 20 Minutes from Ole Miss!

Molly Hawkins, Listing Agent

Call or Text Molly Hawkins: (cell) 662-609-8455 Email: MollyMHawkins@gmail.com

Listed & Brokered by Magnolia Realty & Appraisal, LLC Office: 662-578-2007

February 2018 | INVITATION OXFORD

55

View more photos at invitationoxford.com.

CHRISTMAS AT CAMP

Camp Lake Stephens hosted its annual Christmas at Camp Dec. 9. The family-friendly event included pictures with Santa, caroling, a chili cook-off and children’s craft activities. photographed by Elizabeth Roberts

Kyle Dean and James Tyson with Santa Claus

Madison Saxton, Brylee White and Amy Saxton

Hayden and Tracie Hall

56 INVITATION OXFORD | February 2018

Julia Dennis and Emma Baldwyn

Sarena, Frances and Gabe Pierce

Garrett King, C.J. Powers, Brittany Gibson, Lad Bankston and Lakendra Orr

Smith, Dottie and Rex Massey

Mariah and Alexandria Millican

Megan, Leanza, Leah, Aby and Tom Wilson

February 2018 | INVITATION OXFORD

57

View more photos at invitationoxford.com.

MILK AND COOKIES WITH SANTA

Family Crisis Center of Northwest Mississippi and Addy Photography sponsored the 14th annual Milk and Cookies with Santa Nov. 28 at St. John’s Catholic Church. photographed by Amanda Cody

Mac, Bessie Rose and Joli Nichols

Collier, Brandon, Mary Charles and Sims Beckett

58 INVITATION OXFORD | February 2018

Jeff, Harris, McLain and Susannah Boyd

Susan Sabatier and Jaquandria Brown

Cate, Jennifer and Elin Hughes

Delaney and Lora Cockrell with Angie Hankins and Logan Cockrell

Bryson, Brandon, Brandon and Andi Woodall

Maddie, Katherine and Ellie Rose Thornton

Gemma Kate, Catherine, Colin and Ian Yates

View more photos at invitationoxford.com.

JUNIOR AUXILIARY CHRISTMAS PARTY

Junior Auxiliary of Oxford held a Christmas party Dec. 11 at the home of Cathy Lowe. The event included refreshments, a toy drive and a holiday ornament swap. photographed by Amanda Cody

Mary Adams Kinney, Kirsten Bowen, Jeannie Zieran, Cathy Lowe, Catherine Phillips and Erin Alexander

Darcy Ross, Erin Goforth and Kathleen Mayo

Meagan Farrell and Angela Brown

Fair Jones and McKenzie Wills

Martha Tallent, Rebecca Crane and Alison Ross

Amy Hardin Shirkey and Lindsay Ware

Lolita Gregory and Torie Marion-White

February 2018 | INVITATION OXFORD

59

View more photos at invitationoxford.com.

HOLLY SPRINGS HOLIDAY CELEBRATIONS

Marshall County Historical Museum presented the 28th annual Christmas in Holly Springs. The event featured a Holly and Ivy Gala Dec. 1 at Montrose and a Holiday Tour of Homes Dec. 2 at seven local historic homes. photographed by Megan Wolfe

Michelle Valentine, Zenda Folta and Camille Valentine

Tim and Lisa Liddy

Martha Campbell, Cindy Nichols, Joyce Box and Veronica Toler

Peggy Palmer, Landers Pounds, Melissa Green and Mitzi Pittman

60 INVITATION OXFORD | February 2018

Carole Jean Taylor and Beckey Kemp

Irene Strickland, Carey Crain, Betty Burch and Joni Ragsdale

Robert and Donna Woods with Elise, Emily and Gracie Hendrix

Jim Moore and Merideth Gray

Charles Shipman with Billy, Trey and Kelsey Schubert

Jennifer and Tripp McCullar

Michelle and Gary Pleasants

Suzette and Stephen Woodgate with Dave and Pamela Zelman

February 2018 | INVITATION OXFORD

61

View more photos at invitationoxford.com.

CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS PROGRAM The Resurrection House of Prayer Church held a children’s Christmas program Dec. 15. The event featured a children’s choir performing traditional Christmas songs. photographed by Joe Worthem

Gabby McEwen and Ashleigh Coleman

Deloise, Naomi and Richard McEwen

Hattie Lee and Eunice Davidson

Vicky and Jamarious White with Lavern Campbell

Kim, Steve and Jennifer Horton

Resurrection House of Prayer members

FOR SALE

ONLY 4 LEFT

Tim Phillips Broker Associate

662-816-9194 tim.phillips@crye-leike.com

Oxford’s Newest Luxury Condo Development 62 INVITATION OXFORD | February 2018

662-234-9868

1310 University Ave. • Oxford, MS 38655

An independently owned & operated office of Crye-Leike Franchises, Inc. All information deemed reliable but is not guaranteed and is subject to change without notice.

February 2018 | INVITATION OXFORD

63

View more photos at invitationoxford.com.

OXFORD CHRISTMAS PARADE

The Oxford Christmas parade, themed “A Very Merry Christmas,” was held on Dec. 4 and was sponsored by the City of Oxford. photographed by Megan Wolfe

Julie Chambers with Jeff and Jon Edge

Georgia Neilson with Ansley, Brett and Angie Williams

Elizabeth and Kathryn Hathorne with Jayla Hubbarb

64 INVITATION OXFORD | February 2018

Hayden, Peyton, Kaitlyn and Paula Moore

Chandler Tillman, Mary Kate Baker and Abby Harris

Madison and Craig Hickey

Ella and Rachael McClellan with Brad, Stephen and Stacey Rice

Alex Schove, Abbie Lagrone and Ian Werner

Brian, Mayer and Morgan McNeill

Marquest Coleman with Zendrick, Kaiden and Aubre Fondren

Rowan, Ella, Clay and Stacy Martin

Tony Holmes with Alex Bowman

Smith, Justin, Sadie and Kelly Jeffus

Joicelyn and Joyri Taylor

Brittany Guilliams and Brittney Payne

February 2018 | INVITATION OXFORD

65

View more photos at invitationoxford.com.

MS STATE VS. OLE MISS BASKETBALL GAME

The Ole Miss men’s basketball team played Mississippi State Jan. 6 at the Pavilion. The Rebels beat the Bulldogs 64-58. photographed by Jessica Richardson

Caitlin Pichard, Zach Stavropoulos and Cameron Thomas

Bishop and Clay Bailey

Ellie Zepponi, Avery Hunter and Meg Giachelli

Jennifer and Fred Hudson with Owen Ridgeway and Louise Hooker

66 INVITATION OXFORD | February 2018

Tamyia Newsom and Bracey Granderson

Lila Swanson with Brenda and Billy Berry

Laurie and Richard Noble

J.C. and Hud Clark

February 2018 | INVITATION OXFORD

67

View more photos at invitationoxford.com.

OUT AND ABOUT CONTINUED ON PAGE 70

GINGERBREAD HOUSE VILLAGE RECEPTION

Chris Koban and Laura Sheppardson

Donna Atwood, Kally DeYoung, Marian Norman and Janet Simpson

Scott Crenshaw and Steve Jordahl

LAFAYETTE COUNTY LIBRARY CHRISTMAS TREE DECORATING PARTY

Lee Ward, Herron Shyla and Jamari Fondren

Jakia and Sonia Ealey with Lakendra Steward

Nicholas Parker and Aiden Catre

Alicia Thigpen and Akiyah Vaughn

Anna Cate Miller and Preston Patel

Anna Carson Parker and Emily Hollowell

I AM BRAVE FOUNDATION SANTA’S WORKSHOP

Deanna Minga with Sania and Shalonda Smith

Lily and Fair Jones

Your Local Experts in Group Insurance for 30 years!

MEDICAL

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS

Brad Camp Consultant/Agent

Direct: 662-234-3224 Office: 800-489-3224 brad.camp@morganwhite.com

Connie Caviness Consultant/Agent

PAYROLL 68 INVITATION OXFORD | February 2018

HUMAN RESOURCES

Direct: 662-234-3224 Office: 800-489-3224 Cell: 662-983-8660 connie.caviness@morganwhite.com

February 2018 | INVITATION OXFORD

69

View more photos at invitationoxford.com.

OUT AND ABOUT CONTINUED FROM PAGE 68

WINESKINS CONCERT

Brittainy Westman, Greg Johnson and Rachel Cason

Cecilia Trotter, Lesa Wise, Margaret and Sarah Daniels, and Jeff Gordon

LEE DENTISTRY FREE DENTAL DAY

OXFORD MAKER’S MARKET

Paula Schwallenberg and Franqueshia Scott

Ashley Britt and Tiffany McKay

HUGH ACHESON COOKING DEMONSTRATION

Baylee Mozjesik, Sam McAlilly and Caitlin Keith

70 INVITATION OXFORD | February 2018

Gail Tapscott and Dinorah Sapp

Dwight, Nancy, David and Ethan Frink

Bryce Crow, Emily Rennie and Amanda Heavner

Beth Crow and Beth Greenway

800 COLLEGE HILL ROAD OPEN HOUSE

Paige and Cass Dodgen

Michelle Covington and Derek Moreton

Please save the date for

The Lafayette County Literacy Council

Reads, Beats& Eats Celebrating local literary culture, music and food

Saturday,

April 7

For sponsorship and ticket information, contact:

www.lafayetteliteracy.org

662-234-4234

February 2018 | INVITATION OXFORD

71

JASPER

photographed by Joe Worthem

Jasper, a 26-year-old Dutch Warmblood, was a Grand Prix dressage star in his younger days.

He was among the top 12 horses qualified to compete for a spot on the 2004 U.S. Olympic team. Jasper retired at age 15 and moved to Oxford with his owner, Sarah Barham, in 2011.

Q:

You and Sarah have been a team for 22 years. How do you feel about her?

A: We’ve been through a lifetime together. I was 4 and she was 19 when we met. Sometimes she made me do things I did not really want to do, and I bucked her off a lot. During those times I know some people told her to sell me, but she did not, and I am really glad we had all of our successes and failures together. Even on the days we were the hardest on one another, I knew she loved me. A lot of horses try to compete at Grand Prix, but it takes many years and they do not [all] make it. I am very proud that Sarah and I did that together.

Q: Tell us about your dressage career.

A: It was a lot of hard work. During the peak training times, I would sometimes train 2-3 times per day. At least one of those times was just walking for 30 minutes to an hour. This was to build stamina without putting additional strain on my muscles, ligaments and tendons. I also got quite a bit of pampering.

I was given a liniment bath each day; had my legs iced down and wrapped regularly; had weekly massages; got new shoes and a pedicure every eight weeks and got lots and lots of treats and extra attention. I also got to travel a good bit. For many years I would spend the summers training in Vermont and the winters training in Florida. I also got to fly back to Europe twice and to California once.

Q: What do you do now that you’re retired?

A: I eat and roam around the pasture.

Q: What’s your favorite treat?

A: I like apples, carrots and anything permint flavored.

72 INVITATION OXFORD | February 2018

pep-

We are your chest pain center when seconds count.

Baptist North Mississippi offers the full continuum of advanced cardiac care, from heart surgery to cardiac rehab. When seconds matter, we use technology that provides rapid diagnostics and better treatment for our patients. And our accredited Chest Pain Center continues to provide comprehensive heart care services in one advanced facility.

Get better with Baptist.

Get Better. northmiss.baptistonline.org

662-636–1000