Invitation Oxford - October 2018

OCTOBER 2018

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DEPA RTMENT S

36 Picking the Perfect Pumpkin

47 Fall Fashion Lookbook

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Letter From the Publisher

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Calendar

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Shoutouts

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InstaLove: Carrie Bradshaw Lied

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Restaurant Guide

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In Season: Athleisurewear

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What’s In

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Out & About

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Recipe: Smart Fuel for Fitness

For many families, spending an October Saturday at a pumpkin patch is an annual fall tradition.

41 Couture Shock

An Ole Miss alum and an Oxford High School student share trials and triumphs in the world of fashion modeling.

60 Aiming High: Skeet Shoot for Young Life

In the midst of dove hunting season, a local ministry commemorates Oxford’s Mike Overstreet with a unique fundraiser.

64 Healing in the Hills

Therapists use the landscape of north Mississippi as a tool for addiction recovery.

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We teamed up with a stylist and raided the closets of Invitation Magazines staff to put together new looks from old favorites.

ON THE COVER Ole Miss student Janie Poulton models a suede jacket and more in the special fashion section on page 47.

PHOTOGRAPHED BY JOE WORTHEM

OCTOBER 2018

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EVENTS 70

Mary Day

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Crosstown Classic

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Night for Nonprofits

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Burgers and Blues

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Ford Center Gala

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John Crist Comedy Tour

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Thursday Night Fights

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9/11 Day of Remembrance

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Yoga in the Grove

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OHS Theatre: “The Nerd”

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L E T T E R from the P U B L I S H E R There’s something about the fall I enjoy more than any other time of the year. I think it has to do with the beauty of the sunlight at dawn and dusk. And a bright harvest moon on a cool fall night is just about perfect in my book. Fall reminds me that the time has come to get outside and celebrate cooler weather and seasonal offerings, whether on a bike trail, a golf course, a football field or in your own backyard.

Nowhere have I enjoyed a better autumn experience than last October at Bull Bottom Farms in Duck Hill. The farm with its fields ripe with pumpkins in all colors, shapes and sizes is something that you shouldn’t miss this year. For my family and me, traipsing

FOLLOW US

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through the fields until we found our prize pumpkin was the perfect way to usher in the month of October.

In this issue, we invite you to catch up with Taylor Phillips in New York and Haley Hewitt in Oxford, both professional models.

Their experiences on their respective roads to the runway are inspiring and funny. Then flip a few pages over and look through our fashion pages beginning on page 47. We took a different approach this year, featuring our staff’s favorite go-to items and must-haves for fall. The shoot was a fun day of mixing and matching tried-and-true wardrobe items we love to wear and that mean something to us for many different reasons.

@INVITATIONOXFORD

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We hope you enjoy this issue, and we’d like to extend a special thank you to all of our advertisers this month. This issue marks our 12th year of doing business in Oxford — we’ve produced over 120 magazines since October of 2006. We are grateful for their continued support.

RACHEL M. WEST, PUBLISHER Note: Last month’s letter contained an error. The 2001 Ole Miss game against Arkansas was played in Oxford, not in Little Rock.

@INVOXFORD

PUBLISHERS Phil and Rachel West

EDITORIAL

EDITOR IN CHIEF Allison Estes EXECUTIVE MANAGING EDITOR Mary Moreton CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Emily Welly CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Caitlin Adams Brooke Hutson Gibson Sarah McCullen Lucy Schultze SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR Sarah McCullen COPY EDITOR Kate Johnson

OFFICE

BUSINESS MANAGER Hollie Hilliard DISTRIBUTION Donald Courtney Brian Hilliard MAIN OFFICE 662-234-4008

ART

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Holly Vollor STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Joe Worthem CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Sarah McCullen Jessica Richardson Talbert Toole Megan Wolfe CONTRIBUTING ILLUSTRATOR Sarah McCullen

ADVERTISING

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

To subscribe to one year (10 issues) of Invitation Oxford or to buy an announcement, visit invitationoxford.com.

To request a photographer at your event, email Mary at mary.invitation@gmail.com.

Invitation Oxford respects the many diverse individuals and organizations that make up north Mississippi and strives to be inclusive and representative of all members of our community.

PLEASE RECYCLE THIS MAGAZINE

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C A L E N DA R Muscadine Bloodline Concert

Bodock Festival

OC TOBER 4

The Pontotoc Chamber of Commerce hosts its 25th annual Bodock Festival with arts and crafts vendors, food, a pageant, a twilight run, a bike tour, a car show, games for kids and live entertainment in downtown Pontotoc. Opens Thursday at 6 p.m., Friday and Saturday at 9 a.m.

The Alabama-based duo recently released their first album, “Movin’ On,” with a signature style that melds Southern rock and classic country. Minors must be accompanied by an adult. Tickets $12-$15.

Doors open at 7 p.m., show at 8 p.m., The Lyric Oxford.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY ATLANTIC RECORDS

OCTOBER 2018

O C T O B E R 1 1 -1 3

thelyricoxford.com

Rainbow Kitten Surprise Concert OC TOBER 23

Columbus Day OC TOBER 8

OLE MISS

FOOTBALL O C TO B E R 6

Ole Miss vs. Louisiana Monroe Homecoming TBA

This genre-defying band from the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina performs songs from their recently released album, “How to: Friend, Love, Freefall.”

Minors must be accompanied by an adult.

Tickets $15-$89. Doors open at 7 p.m., show starts at 8 p.m., The Lyric Oxford. thelyricoxford.com

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Ole Miss at Arkansas TBA O C TO B E R 2 0

Southern Foodways Fall Symposium O C T O B E R 1 1 -1 3

The Southern Foodways Alliance at the University of Mississippi holds its 21st annual symposium, “Reading Food: From Menus to Soap Operas to Novels.”

Chefs, food writers and experts explore a range of topics related to Southern food and culture, with lectures, meals, tastings and other experiences. Tickets must be purchased in advance. southernfoodways.org

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Ole Miss vs. Auburn TBA

One Night Stand O C TOB ER 13

A dozen local artists take over 12 rooms at the Ole Miss Motel, transforming it into a gallery. Attendees can view and purchase the art for one night only. A private preview hour includes a first look at the art and a small dinner.

Preview 5-6 p.m., tickets $20.

Public viewing 6-9 p.m., free.

The Great 38 O C T O B E R 2 6 -2 8

The third annual race weekend honoring former Ole Miss football player Chucky Mullins includes 3-mile, 8-mile and half-marathon courses ending at VaughtHemingway Stadium at the 38-yard line, in honor of Mullins’ number. Proceeds benefit the Chucky Mullins Foundation and Palmer Home for Children. Registration $20-$75. The 3- and 8-mile races begin at 7:30 a.m. on Saturday; the half marathon begins at 7 a.m. on Sunday. runoxford.com

Tailgate for Palmer OC TOBER 27

Join this tailgating fundraiser while the Rebels take a week off. Enjoy food from Oxford’s best restaurants and caterers while viewing SEC games on the Jumbotron. Proceeds benefit Palmer Home for Children. Tickets $75-$125. 7-11 p.m., the Manning Center. palmerhome.org

The Wizard of Oz O C T O B E R 2 9 -3 1

The Oxford High School Theatre production adds a macabre twist to the classic story, just in time for Halloween.

Tickets $10. 7:30-9 p.m., Kayla Sue Mize Auditorium at Oxford Middle School. oxfordsd.org

Terror in Turner OC TOBER 30

Sponsored by Ole Miss Campus Recreation, this haunted house combines trick-or-treating with wellness activities, encouraging children of all ages to make healthy choices this Halloween. Free.

5-8 p.m., the Turner Center.

Halloween OC TOBER 31

It may be Wednesday, but spooky events pop up all over town tonight. Watch out for trick-or-treaters, and check Invitation Oxford’s Facebook, Twitter and Instagram feeds for a complete round-up of all the Halloween happenings in Oxford.

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S H O U T O U T S 2nd C h a nc e M S

C ot to n Wo o d D e s i g n s

October is National Magic Month. For the 22nd consecutive year, award-­winning magician and Oxford local Steve Thomas will perform at the Mall at Barnes Crossing in Tupelo on Oct. 31, which is National Magic Day. Thomas has been practicing magic for more than 40 years.

He is scheduled to perform two shows — one at 6 p.m. and one at 7:15 p.m. — as part of the mall’s free Halloween celebration, which also includes trick-or-treating at participating stores throughout the mall. Thomas’ aweinspiring shows are enjoyable for all ages.

“People think of magic as something for their 3-year-old kid, but they aren’t spending $1,000 for them to see Penn Jillette,” Thomas said. “When I do a show, no one is left out.”

As the years pass, souvenir T-shirts from special events, concerts and trips can accu­ mulate and wind up unworn, stuffed in a dresser drawer.

Judy Wood of Oxford, founder of Cotton Wood Designs, gives new life to these old shirts by snipping and sewing them into memory quilts.

“The quilts are the perfect way to preserve T-shirts that you just can’t let go of, but that you don’t really wear anymore,” Wood said. “A person’s T-shirts tell their life story.”

Wood made her first T-shirt quilts in 2016 for her husband and two children, who declared them the best gifts they had ever received. Since then, she has made about 55 quilts to celebrate birthdays and graduations.

Recently she began partnering with Coleman Funeral Home to make T-shirt quilts memorializing deceased loved ones.

Each quilt takes several weeks to create. To place an order, call or text 662-801-8516, or email Wood at judyannwood56@gmail.com.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY STEVE THOMAS

M a g ic at t he M a l l

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PHOTO BY NATALIE WOOD

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY 2NDCHANCEMS

Mississippi’s high school dropouts now have the opportunity to further their education and acquire the skills necessary to qualify for jobs with familysustaining wages, thanks to 2ndChanceMS Inc. The organization partners with community colleges all over the state to financially assist adults who are returning to school or who wish to pursue work skills training.

“Community colleges have the infrastructure to provide these things, but their biggest barrier is recruitment and retention,” said executive director Zach Scruggs. “Most adults who are going to community colleges to get their GED or any kind of workforce training are lower-income, more likely than not, and are going to have hurdles or barriers that keep them from completing the course.”

Hurdles include things like tuition, childcare, transportation, and even food and shelter. 2ndChanceMS helps cover these expenses, enabling adults to pursue training to fill 40,000 open jobs all over the state, like certified nursing assistants, pharmacy technicians, manufacturing positions and more.

“Some students are just one flat tire away from dropping out, but 2nd Chance is here to make sure they don’t have to,” Scruggs said.

Since its conception, 80 adults have received high school equivalency certificates, and 145 received workforce certifications through 2ndChanceMS. The organization held its first benefit gala September 13, raising more than $90,000 for the program. For more information or to make a donation, call 601-265-1895 or visit one.bidpal.net/2ndchancems.

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instaL O V E C a r r ie Bra d s h aw L ie d

When California-based fashion blogger Kathleen Barnes was attending the University of Mississippi, the TV show “Sex and the City” was in its heyday, and Barnes was an avid viewer. Carrie Bradshaw and the other characters in the show led

fantasy lives, their calendars full of dates sipping Cosmopolitans in New York City’s award-winning restaurants, their closets full of designer clothing and Manolo pumps.

Their rewarding jobs and lavish lifestyles embodied many a young woman’s dreams for life after college, and Barnes was no exception. But it didn’t take her long to realize that her post-grad paycheck wasn’t going to fund regular shopping sprees at Nordstrom. Barnes’ Instagram account, Carrie Bradshaw Lied, shows how to achieve a high-end look on a real-life paycheck.

Barnes’ Instagram page is full of vibrant colors, interesting textures and beautiful scenery. The page funnels viewers to her blog, which gives tips and tricks about how to repurpose items in your wardrobe, like wearing a dress as a shirt or transitioning your little black dress from day to night. She posts when quality fashion and accessories she loves are on sale, but she only promotes brands that fit her goal of attainable luxury.

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“I love to inspire others, but I enjoy motivating girls even more,” Barnes said.

“Mix and match in your own closet. Let me show you 10 ways to style that $10 scarf.

You don’t have to spend a million bucks to look like a million bucks.”

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AT H L E I S U R E W E A R WRITTEN BY SARAH McCULLEN

Most things are better when they’re multipurpose, and that includes workout clothes. Great “athleisurewear” combines style and comfort with quick-dry technology, facilitating an effortless and appropriate transition from the gym to wherever you’re headed next. However, quality pieces that wick away sweat without sacrificing style can be expensive, so use these simple tricks to care for your workout wear and preserve your investment.

Fresh air is athleisurewear’s best friend.

Stuffing sweaty clothes in your hamper or gym bag creates a breeding ground for bacteria and mildew. Allow clothing to air out after a workout, and dry in the sun for about 30 minutes after washing. A short stint in breezy sunshine kills lingering bacteria, but the heat of the clothes dryer wreaks havoc on techy clothes.

Your athletic shoes also benefit from fresh air. Opt for synthetic socks that wick away sweat, and remove your shoes as soon as possible after a workout so sweat doesn’t soak into the soles. If you do start to notice an odor, sprinkle about ½ teaspoon baking soda in each shoe to absorb moisture and odors. If your shoes are dirty, wash them by hand using a gentle scrub brush, mild soap and a little cool water, and let them air-dry.

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To keep colors vibrant and maintain the fabric and fit of your workout wear, follow these steps for laundering from Rinse.com and Esquire advice columnist Jolie Kerr: - Wash athleisurewear inside out, in cold water.

- Separate cotton and synthetic fabrics to avoid pilling.

- Use as little detergent as possible, and avoid fabric softener completely — the residue clogs “pores” in high-tech fabrics, inhibiting breathability and trapping odors.

- Soak extra-smelly items in a one-to-one solution of vinegar and water for 30 minutes before washing. Vinegar helps remove residues and odors.

- Hand-wash pieces with Velcro or zippers to avoid abrasion and snagging on other fabrics.

- Hang or lay flat to dry, preferably outdoors in the sunshine.

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OXFORD SK YLINE $65 BOARD & BRUSH CRE ATIVE STUDIO

FL AWLESS FINISH $ 47 AMY HEAD

E T TA B P OT TERY TRUCK FULL OF PUMPKINS $76 OLIVE JUICE

T H E CH EL S E A W ED G E I I | S O R EL $19 9.95 AUSTIN'S SHOES

R A Y- B A N T H E B L A Z E C O L L E C T I O N $ 1 8 8 A LOOK AHEAD

PUMPKIN TE A TOWEL S $22 E ACH OLIVE JUICE

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SPECIALITY ORTHOPEDIC GROUP

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F O R M A N Y FA M I L I E S , S P E N D I N G A N O C T O B E R S AT U R D AY AT A PUMPKIN PATCH IS AN ANNUAL FALL TRADITION. WRITTEN BY BROOKE HUTSON GIBSON

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PHOTOGRAPHED BY JOE WORTHEM

No matter what your age, there is something magical about a pumpkin patch. Rows of bright orange orbs still on the vine, ready to be claimed. Giant piles of pumpkins in all shapes, shades and sizes. Running through a corn maze and hopping on a hayride.

A local farm that has become a fall tradition for many Mississippi families is Bull Bottom Farms in Duck Hill.

From 1944 to 2010, the Robinson Family Farm had been a row-crop (predominantly cotton) and cattle farm. In 2010, Earl and Vickie Robinson, along with their oldest son, Nic, and his wife, Katie, decided to try their hand at agritourism and welcome outside guests.

Grenada high school sweethearts and Ole Miss alums, Katie and Nic were living in Nashville at the time and drove home to the farm every weekend that first fall to help Nic’s parents get Bull Bottom up and running.

“We needed to make sure it was going to be a success before we gave up our Nashville careers and home to move back to Mississippi like we really wanted to,” Katie said.

The Robinsons’ large leap of faith eight years ago began to pay off. Katie and Nic left their sales jobs and headed home to Duck Hill.

“Coming home to work on my family farm has been an amazing and humbling experience,” Nic said. “I have thoroughly enjoyed getting to work alongside my wife and parents as we have literally built this business from the ground up together as a team. I have an entirely new perspective on what it really takes to be a farmer.”

“Looking back at that first year is very humbling,” Katie said. “We had a corn maze, one variety of pumpkins in our patch, a corn box, a cow train, and that was about it.”

The community supported them, and their simple start was a success. The Robinsons have continued to grow Bull Bottom Farms and add more attractions each year. The Bull Bottom pumpkin patch produces more than 30 varieties of pumpkins, and the list of attractions now includes: Corn Box, Cow Train, Corn Maze, Magic Carpet Slide, Hay Ride,

Animal Park, Jumping Pillow, Fun Fort, Sand Mountain, Tiny Town, Hay Jump, Corn Cannon, Face Painting and Balloon Art. New to the farm this year is an air-conditioned gift shop filled with souvenirs, home decor, stocking stuffers and gift items.

“As far as activities go, I would say the biggest hit for years now has been our Magic Carpet Slide,” Katie said.

“It’s 10 feet high, 150 feet long, and it’s as scary as it is fun.”

The Robinsons believe the peaceful and friendly atmosphere at Bull Bottom Farms is what sets it apart from other pumpkin farms.

“When you walk through our gates, you are greeted with warm smiles from everyone that works there,” Katie said. “We pray for the safety of our customers and for families to be brought together through Bull Bottom Farms.

We are thrilled that we are able to offer a safe environment for them to spend time with their children and teach them about agriculture at the same time.”

The Robinsons hope families will make the drive to Duck Hill this fall, explore the farm and all of its attractions, enjoy some barbecue or nachos from the concession stand, and find the perfect pumpkins to take home and set on the front porch.

“It’s been very rewarding getting to make the farm that I grew up on beautiful and enjoyable for our entire community,” Nic said. “I am thrilled to be doing this, and I can’t imagine raising my kids anywhere else.”

“We love our customers, and I think that shows,” Katie said. “We do our best to make our farm look beautiful and clean, and we are always looking for new ways to make the customer’s experience more memorable and fun each year.”

Bull Bottom Farms is open the last weekend in September, every weekend in October and the first weekend in November. The hours are Saturdays, 10 a.m.–8 p.m., and Sundays, 1–5 p.m. Admission is $10 per person (children age 2 and under are free). For more information, go to bullbottomfarms.com.

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COUTURE SHOCK I T M AY L O O K E A S Y, B U T T H E R U N WAY I S N O C A K E WA L K .

AN OLE MISS ALUM AND AN OXFORD HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT SHARE THEIR TRIALS AND TRIUMPHS IN THE WORLD OF FASHION MODELING. WRITTEN BY CAITLIN ADAMS

Modeling may seem like a glitzy gig of seasonal fashion shows and monthly glossy magazine spreads, but for two Oxford residents (one former and one current), the glam life comes with a daily dose of reality. The profession involves a lot more than fashion shoots and globetrotting. Just like any career, it’s chock-full of hard work, long days and some letdowns. Ole Miss alum Taylor Phillips and Oxford resident Haley Hewitt have their own unique stories about finding their way in front of the camera.

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TAYLOR PHILLIP S Taylor Phillips didn’t find instant success in his modeling career. The Ole Miss alum was originally scouted online when he was a 17-year-old high school student living in southern Indiana. He had never been on a plane before but flew to New York City to meet with agents, photographers, and do everything “models do.” The efforts were all for naught.

“Long story short, it was all a scam, and nothing came of it,” he said.

Instead, Phillips finished his senior year of high school and set his sights on the University of Mississippi, where he went on to serve as an Ole Miss Ambassador and an Associate Student Body Senator and was runner-up for Mr. Ole Miss. In between game days in the Grove, trips to Sardis Lake and eating his favorite grilled cheese sandwiches at The Downstairs Bar, Phillips was once again discovered during his junior year. His agent found him while scouting on Instagram, and suddenly his grilled cheese days were replaced with clean eating and sweating it out.

“I spent the rest of my time at Ole Miss in the Turner Center getting myself into shape and focusing on living a healthier lifestyle,” he said.

His hard work and discipline paid off.

Phillips booked a job for Brian Atwood, who designs all the shoes for the Victoria’s Secret fashion show. The job was for a

high-fashion shoot in Milan, Italy, in which Phillips posed holding women’s shoes.

“It was such a cool experience because it was one of my first jobs and my first high-fashion shoot,” Phillips said. “To work with such an incredible designer and team was great.”

Since then, Phillips’ bookings have been consistent. He has been in ad campaigns for Macy’s, Perry Ellis and Target brands. But his favorite gig to date was a print ad for Kohl’s, which was included in the mailer of his mom’s newspaper.

“To see her and her friends, and even my friends from college sending me my picture from an ad was cool,” he said.

Phillips travels all over the world for modeling work and likes to take trips for fun at least once a month. He documents his jet-setting on his Instagram feed for his devoted followers — 125,000 to be exact — who love to keep track of “where in the world” Phillips is.

While his life is now a blur between shoots and workdays spent at a technology startup, Phillips recalls his years at the University of Mississippi as some of his most memorable — he was simply making friends and learning about himself as he experienced life on his own away from family.

“Looking back, I can’t believe I actually had the experience I did,” Phillips said. “It's sort of like a little bubble in time.”

Taylor Phillips photographed by Christian Alexander, Taylor Miller and Stevan Reyes

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HALEY HEWITT Modeling came about by process of elimination for Oxford High School senior Haley Hewitt. At 5 feet 11 inches tall, Hewitt has always been one of the tallest in her class, but it wasn’t until she had gone through a laundry list of extracurriculars that she found the catwalk.

“My parents were just like, ‘You know, you’re so tall, let’s just throw you into every sport,’” Hewitt said with a laugh.

Hewitt played it all: volleyball, softball, swim team, cross-country. Nothing stuck.

“I hated it the whole way through,” she said. “I was like, ‘I really think I’m just allergic to sports.’”

But Hewitt wasn’t allergic to working out. She loved being active and staying fit, and her physique caught the eyes of professionals. When she was 16, she was asked to participate in a fashion show in Jackson, where she was invited to attend a three-day workshop in New York City. The whirlwind trip north was a blur between agency meetings, chatting with models on set to learn any tips, and having every inch of her body scrutinized.

“They just whip out a tape measure and put it around your waist or hips,” Hewitt said. “And they’ll say, ‘You need to lose however many inches on your waist and clear up your skin.’ They give you all these things to work on.”

It was a change of environment for the

teen, who grew up among Southern manners and hospitality. Those in charge of the workshop were blunt with their feedback and did not mince words. It seemed like everything Hewitt knew needed tweaking — even the way she walked.

“I had no idea this was a thing before I started, but there is a specific walk you have to do on the runway,” she said.

But after just three days in the city, Hewitt knew she had finally found her extracurricular.

“Once I was up there, I never looked back,” she said.

This past summer, Hewitt lived in New York City and signed with Wilhelmina Models, a modeling and talent agency.

She has yet to model in a campaign and is instead spending the next few months back in Oxford working out, finishing high school and spending time with friends. Since signing her contract, Hewitt has had to modify her diet and maintain a certain body type as part of Wilhelmina’s “fresh faces” sector, a group of models scouted for their natural looks. It’s an exercise in discipline for a teen who loves pizzas at Saint Leo and everything on the Jinsei menu.

But it’s well worth it for Hewitt, as she sets her sights on returning to the Big Apple.

“I’m getting through this year and then ready to go up there and for the dream to start,” Hewitt said. “Or continue, I guess.”

Haley Hewitt photographed by Jenny Anderson OC TOBER 2018 | INVITATION OXFORD

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AMY HEAD

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CL ASSIC, VINTAGE AND C O N T E M P O R A R Y FAVO R I T E S SOURCED FROM OUR OWN WARDROBES

STYLED BY SALLEY AGNEW PHOTOGRAPHED BY JOE WORTHEM

Modeled by Janie Poulton and Invitation Oxford staff.

Props provided by Sugar Magnolia.

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TWEED IS A CLASSIC CHOICE AND A PERFECT FIT THIS SEASON. WEAR IT WITH A STRIKING PAT TERN TO MODERNIZE THE LOOK.

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MAKE A STATEMENT BY PAIRING BOLD JEWELRY WITH A CRISP WHITE S H I R T A N D YO U R FAVO R I T E J E A N S .

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L AY E R E D L O O K S T H AT B L E N D TEXTURES ARE VERSATILE AND IDEAL FOR FALL WEATHER.

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MIX GEOMETRIC PAT TERNS WITH SOLID COLORS TO MAKE TRADITIONAL ST YLES STAND OUT.

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FROM SUPPLE SUEDE TO FAUX FUR, OUTERWEAR IS ESSENTIAL TO A FASHIONABLE FALL WARDROBE.

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EVERYONE NEEDS A GO-TO FALL J AC K E T T H AT C A N S U C C E S S F U L LY PULL TOGETHER ANY OUTFIT.

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BEAUTIFUL ACCESSORIES ADD POWER AND PUNCH TO WARDROBE BASICS.

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AN EYE-CATCHING SCARF C L E V E R LY F O L D E D A N D T I E D BRINGS NEW LIFE TO CLASSIC LOOKS.

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IN DOVE HUNTING SEASON, A LOCAL MINISTRY REMEMBERS A PROMINENT SUPPORTER AND COMMUNITY MEMBER WITH A UNIQUE FUNDRAISER.

WRIT TEN AND ILLUSTRATED BY SAR AH McCULLEN

People who knew Mike Overstreet tend to have similar memories of him. A hardworking farmer, accountant and real estate developer, he cared about the community, serving on numerous boards and committees; and he lifted spirits with his warm, happy demeanor. An avid outdoorsman, he made time for things he loved, like hunting and shooting skeet with his family.

“Mike just had a childlike quality of having fun,” his wife, Helen, said. “He was always smiling.”

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Mike died in March 2018, but his memory lives on through a new clay shooting fundraiser, the Mike Overstreet Memorial Sporting Clay Tournament. The proceeds benefits Young Life, a nationwide program that introduces middle school, high school and college-age students to Jesus Christ and offers them opportunities to deepen their faith. The students meet weekly in clubs where they play games, sing, connect with others their age and hear simple messages about God’s love for them. They also have the opportunity to attend Young Life camps and go on other trips.

Helen first experienced Young Life in 1974, when she was a high school student

in Dallas. She remained connected to the ministry over the years, serving as a Young Life committee member, and she’s been an ardent supporter of the Oxford branch since its inception in 2005.

“Mike didn’t know a thing about Young Life until it came here,” Helen said.

“I think the singing is what Mike really fell in love with. I don’t know anyone else at 71 years old that keeps up with contemporary Christian music, so he loved connecting to the kids at Young Life.”

The Overstreets hosted Young Life leadership meetings at their home and grew to know and love the staff. They supported the ministry financially for years, but

Helen said she always wanted to do more.

After Mike died, two of Oxford’s Young Life directors approached Helen about a fundraiser in Mike’s name.

“Years ago, Mike dreamt about doing a clay shoot, but it didn’t come into fruition,” former director Bryan Spillman said. “This whole thing was really Mike’s idea, and he never got to see it actually happen, but it seems like a really appropriate, wonderful way to celebrate him and his involvement with Young Life.”

The tournament takes place Oct. 12, with Matt and Dolly McClendon hosting on their land about 20 minutes outside Oxford.

Teams of four are invited to participate. Each team member has an opportunity to shoot at 10 stations, with different-sized clay targets thrown mechanically at different heights.

Registration is $500 per team.

“The tournament is run by Howell Traps from Enterprise, Alabama, and they run every station and keep score, so it will be pretty self-explanatory,” Young Life director Brad Akin said. “Little to no experience is needed, and men and women alike are invited.”

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PHOTO PROVIDED BY HELEN OVERSTREET

Participants supply their own firearms, typically 12-gauge shotguns, along with their own ammunition. Long-sleeved flannel shirts, thick khakis, boots, and shooting vests are smart attire for cool October mornings. Canvas or leather bags are great additions for carrying gear.

“This is the kind of sporting activity where you can dress a little nicer,” Spillman said. “You don’t have to wear athletic gear, really, so it’s a little bit of a fancier sporting event.”

All proceeds from the shoot support Oxford’s Young Life programs. Currently, there are four: one at Oxford Middle School, known as WyldLife; one at Oxford High

Above: Mike Overstreet with stepson Rob Cornelius.

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School; one at Lafayette High School; and another at the University of Mississippi. The operating budget for Oxford’s Young Life programs this year is $290,000, a portion of which employs the directors and another part-time employee. The goal is to raise $30,000 through the clay shoot.

“By participating in the clay shoot, you’re benefiting a local ministry,” Spillman said. “Your entry fee, or whatever way you give, that gift will go way beyond you and that day. It will help [reach the] kids. We’re reaching our teenagers, in our town.”

“Adolescents need help navigating life, and we’re there to do that,” Akin said.

“There are so many destructive things that

pull adolescents down, so our ministry is an opportunity to choose against those destructive paths, and we provide people to help them with that.”

Akin hopes the tournament will raise awareness of the organization.

“This is a totally new event for Oxford,” Akin said. “To bring a new event for the sportsman in Oxford is really fun.”

Helen said she knows her husband would love the idea of the clay tournament as a benefit for Young Life, since it combines both the sport and the ministry he loved so dearly. “[Mike] would be pleased as punch,” Helen said.

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HEALING IN THE HILLS THERAPISTS ARE USING THE LANDSCAPE OF NORTH MISSISSIPPI AS A TOOL FOR ADDICTION RECOVERY. WRIT TEN BY LUCY SCHULT ZE

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PHOTOGRAPHED BY JOE WORTHEM

Six young women have been hiking for three hours by the time they reach the summit. They are sore, sweaty and frustrated — exactly where Katherine Westfall wants them to be.

“We intentionally make it difficult yet achievable,” said Westfall, a wilderness therapist at Oxford Treatment Center’s Lafayette Countybased addiction treatment facility. “Even when the road ahead of us is hard, the only way to reach the goal is to just keep walking.”

The metaphors along the trail are many, as therapists like Westfall help direct people down a new path of recovery from drug or alcohol addiction. In the past, treatment sessions at recovery centers typically took place in office or classroom settings. But today, therapists are finding that when they also work with clients through outdoor activities, it speeds progress in treatment.

Therapist Troy Young leads the wilderness therapy program at Oxford Treatment Center.

“What it’s really about is providing an experience where people forget they’re in therapy,” Young said. “Out here, their real issues come to the surface much more quickly.”

People from across the country come to get help for drug and alcohol problems at the sprawling 110-acre campus off Highway 30 between Oxford and New Albany. Oxford Treatment Center can house more than 100 clients at a time. About 80 percent are from out of state.

At the center’s main campus, therapists work with clients not only in traditional office settings but also on the center’s horseback-riding OC TOBER 2018 | INVITATION OXFORD

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trails, challenge course, volleyball court and disc golf course. There’s even a meditation labyrinth and a vegetable garden that clients and therapists tend together.

Therapists also use public recreation sites around Oxford and beyond, from hikes along the University of Mississippi’s South Campus Rail Trail to canoeing on the Tallahatchie River.

The center has a special program for people ages 18-25 that includes overnight small-group camping trips in Tishomingo State Park.

There, the many activity options allow therapists to tailor the program to the abilities and needs of each group, with rock-climbing as a central element of the trips.

The experience at OTC is a stark contrast to the sterile settings young people often associate with therapy.

“They imagine they’re going to be sitting in an office with somebody who’s going to psychoanalyze them and ‘fix’ them,” Young said. “They’re resistant already. But wilderness therapy breaks down those barriers.”

Wilderness therapists like Young and Westfall apply dual expertise, both in mental health counseling and in outdoor adventure programming.

Their sessions help people uncover and deal with the issues that have fueled drug and alcohol problems in their lives.

“Around the campfire, the walls between people are gone — both literally and metaphorically,” Westfall said. “People are more open than they would be in other settings. They become so vulnerable and genuinely want to help each other. They know that by helping each other, they can help themselves as well.”

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HOW WILDERNESS THERAPY AIDS RECOVERY FROM DRUG AND ALCOHOL ADDICTION

OPENS UP THERAPEUTIC CONVERSATION

When people are active outdoors, it’s easy to forget that they’re in therapy — which makes it easier for therapy to take place. Talking with a therapist while hiking or fishing removes the clinical aspect, making it easier for people to open up.

ENCOURAGES MINDFULNESS

In early recovery, few things are more dangerous than anxious, repetitive thoughts — and the habit of using drugs or alcohol to numb them. That’s why mindfulness (the practice of being fully present in the moment) is increasingly being used as a tool in treatment and recovery. Being active outdoors is one of the best opportunities to learn how to focus on the experience at hand.

PRESENTS CHALLENGES TO OVERCOME

Whether it’s disc golf for young men or nature-immersive hiking for young women, the physical activities built into wilderness therapy trips are designed to be challenging.

They offer a real-world exercise in dealing with frustration while also opening up a world of metaphors for the recovery journey.

INTRODUCES POSITIVE WAYS OF HAVING FUN

Therapeutic activities can open the door to meaningful pastimes after treatment. On overnight camping trips, therapists intentionally build in some downtime, so that clients can practice finding something positive to do. Because being bored can be a dangerous thing in early recovery, clients practice making good choices about how to spend their time, like reading a book or going fishing.

TEACHES ABOUT HARD WORK AND RESPONSIBILITY

Addiction treatment today employs a range of evidence-based tools and approaches, but lasting recovery still takes hard work. That’s why, on camping trips, therapists always start with the chore of setting up camp before beginning the fun activities, demonstrating how work is necessary before play. Similarly, rest becomes a tool for teaching delayed gratification.

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M ARY DAY PHOTOGRAPHED BY MEGAN WOLFE

Oxford Treehouse Gallery hosted Mary Day: A Celebration of Womanhood, Art and Grace Aug. 15. The event included a curated Mary-themed art show, potluck, procession and ceremonial fire. Proceeds benefited Doors of Hope Transition Ministries.

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1. Shannon Curtis, Vivian Neill, Wren Webb and Mary Margaret Andrews 2. Ryan Pierce with James, Hannah and Juaurice McCormick 3. Hunter Williams and Bree Starnes 4. Dale Abadie and Robert Riggs 5. Mary Solomon and Walter Neill 6. Susan Bartlett and Owen Phillips 7. Billy Crews and Ralph Eubanks 8. Jere and Paige Allen with Britt and Kelly Young 9. Dorothy Howorth and Suzanne Graham

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CROSSTOWN CLASSIC PHOTOGRAPHED BY MEGAN WOLFE

The 47th annual Oxford vs. Lafayette Crosstown Classic football game took place Sept. 7 at Bobby Holcomb Field. The Oxford Chargers defeated the Lafayette Commodores 29-27.

View more photos at invitationoxford.com.

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1. Umarian Jeffries, Canderious Bland and Egypt Arrington 2. Karlie Ann Beckham and Grace Purdy 3. D.J. Davis, Jay Tillman, Keondre Overstreet and Adam Tyson 4. Brie Johnson, Leiland Humphrey, Addison Johnston 5. Robert, Teri and Laurel Neese 6. Cara and Beth Garner

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CROSSTOWN CLASSIC

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7. Massey Grace Russell and Larry Massey 8. Caroline Harris, Braylon Robinson and Allie Tapp 9. Michael and Tina Clark 10. Cody Depriest and Kayla Hughes 11. Tiffany and Lex Gray with Wendy Pfenger 12. Janiya Vaughn, Shaniah Sample and Braylon Robinson

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NIGHT FOR NONPROFITS PHOTOGRAPHED BY MEGAN WOLFE

Night for Nonprofits, sponsored by the Lafayette Oxford Foundation for Tomorrow, was held Aug. 16 at the Powerhouse. The event showcased the 2018 grant award finalists and awarded more than $50,000 to local nonprofit organizations.

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1. Marylaine Thames, Madalyn Sullivan, Ava Lee Joiner and Abby Morrison 2. Robin and Denny Buchannon with Tom Lombardo and Karen Christon 3. Katrenia Meeks and Alice Malone 4. Donna Taylor and Linda Keys 5. Hubert Spears, Kerri Greene and Stephanie Young 6. Sarah Liddy and Nancy Maria Balach 7. John Maxey and Ken McGraw 8. Chris Vick, James Holley and Donnie Wilson

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BURGERS AND BLUES PHOTOGRAPHED BY JESSICA RICHARDSON

Ole Miss Wesley Foundation held its annual Burgers and Blues cookout Aug. 23. The special guest speaker was Ole Miss head coach Matt Luke.

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1. John Walker Webb, William King, Noah Grovich, Steve Guyton and Taylor Phillips 2. Thomas McAlilly, Kayla Mattox and Ben Salvador 3. Hudson and Ellis Parnell with Gina and Wes Sigler 4. Matt Luke and Eddie Willis 5. Mary Russell Perry, Sarah Kathryn Harris and Katie Topper 6. Ethan Rainey and Reese Neely 7. Selby and Lydia Willis with Cecilia Pringle 8. Drake Wilson and Caitlyn Jackson 9. Jess Cooley, Nick Castellanos and Nick Pagoria 10. Matthew Jackson and Ben Larson with Shiloh 11. Trip Johnson, Katrina Gately and Ben Maples 12. Megan Wadsworth and Emma Rice

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FORD CENTER GALA PHOTOGRAPHED BY TALBERT TOOLE

The Capital Campaign Gala for the Ford Center was held Sept. 6 at the Gertrude C. Ford Center for the Performing Arts. The event included hors d’oeuvres in the lobby, followed by a backstage tour and seated dinner onstage with live music.

View more photos at invitationoxford.com.

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1. Charlotte and Paul Parks 2. Lucius Lamar, Mary Ann Fruge and Kerry Hamilton 3. Jake Gibbs and Linda Scarbrough 4. Anna Kathryn Brown, Gwynne Brunt and Ingrid Brown 5. Bill and Carol Dye, Pickett and Jody Scruggs, and Rose and Huburt Spears

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JOHN CRIST COMEDY TOUR PHOTOGRAPHED BY MEGAN WOLFE

Comedian John Crist performed Sept. 9 at the Ford Center, as part of The Good Medicine Comedy Tour. The family-friendly event was sponsored by Chick-fil-A.

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1. Connor, Lance, Amanda, Camden and Cade Reed 2. Troy and Robbie Comer with Brandon and Kristy Hardin 3. Katelin Rhodes, Misty Parmer and Anna Cooper 4. Ron and Amy Bradley with Jeff Credille and Eric Pittman 5. Elena and Sheila Lowery with Tabitha and Angie Beckwithe 6. Scott, Lois, Natalie and Ruben Applewhite 7. Philip and Carol Carpenter with Steve and Janice Fielder 8. Alex and Kim Schweigart 9. Laura, Rimes and Keith Kent 10. Hailey and Meredith Edwards 11. John Verner and Gentry Thompson 12. Dylan Gunter and Marlee Hatcher 13. Victoria Bamburg and Carly Horton

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JOHN CRIST

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THURSDAY NIGHT FIGHTS PHOTOGRAPHED BY MEGAN WOLFE

The Lyric Oxford hosted Thursday Night Fights: Live Boxing Aug. 30, benefiting the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Lightweight to heavyweight boxers participated in 10 fights with three rounds.

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1. Walker Shirling, Brian Knight and Omar Alvares 2. Cameron Cain, Matt Chambley, Mike Cain and Jeff Chambers 3. Steve and Jason Margen with Katie McLain 4. Miles Luber, Hayden Campbell, Harlan Yerger, Ross Shows, Trip Maxwell and Drew Carter 5. Hailey Walley, Nicole Sardi, Emily Anderson, Alex Marsden and Mekial Simmons 6. Josh Busby and Blake Freemen 7. Tracy Harris and Josh Price 8. Chyna and Leonard Fields 9. Sarah Sides and McKenna Mason

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OXFORD HOME FURISHINGINGS

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9/11 DAY OF REMEMBRANCE PHOTOGRAPHED BY SARAH McCULLEN

The L.O.U. community held a Day of Service and Remembrance ceremony Sept. 11 at the Old Armory Pavilion to honor and thank first responders, veterans and others who serve the community.

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1. Virginia Dorris, Robert Patterson and Laura Martin 2. Collins Bryant, John Davis and Mary Lee Henderson 3. Deb Helms, Marlee Carpenter and Arledia Bennett 4. Jeremy Cook, Kendall Brown and Jane Mahan 5. Micah East, Scott Mills and Omar Ahmed 6. Robyn Tannehill, Matt McKenzie and Kara Giles 7. Josh Ferguson and Timmy Pruitt 8. Alan Wilburn and Joey Gardner

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YOGA IN THE GROVE PHOTOGRAPHED BY SARAH McCULLEN

RebelWell and Southern Star Yoga Center hosted the 5th Annual Labor Day Yoga in the Grove Sept. 3. The family-friendly class included yoga instruction for multiple skill levels and mat giveaways.

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1. Russell and Anna Barnes 2. Susan Boyette and Karen Simmers 3. Ai Nakayama and Marcella Netto 4. Laurie Katz, Esther Bloomekatz and Amy Rosen 5. Tony Halcin and Rodney Holley 6. Chloe and Tess Johnson 7. Mary Katherine Baglan and Angie Fowler 8. Kurt and Bailey Pollack 9. Jill and Miley Stevens

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OHS THEATRE:“THE NERD” PHOTOGRAPHED BY SARAH McCULLEN

Oxford High School Theatre opened its 2018-2019 season with a production of the comedy “The Nerd” Sept. 11-13 at the Kayla Mize Auditorium on the Oxford Middle School campus.

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1. Jess Edge, Molly Archer and Bella Young 2. Campbell McCready, Grace Logan, Cady Pittman and Emily Davis 3. Bekah Moen and Lindsey White 4. John Davenport and Jordan Caviezel 5. Richard Gershon, Donna Levine and Claire Gershon 6. Lucas Jordan and Zeke Yarbrough 7. Paschal Wilson and Brooklyn Whitehead 8. Kaye Bryant and Sue Gobert 9. Catherine Creekmore, AC Rester and Ellen Williams 10. David Torrent, Matthew Solomon and Damarius Wilson

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OUT & ABOUT VIEW MORE PHOTOS AT INVITATIONOXFORD.COM

T he Rou nd Ro b i n : C o n s u lt at io n s W it h S m a l l Bu s i ne s s E x p e r t s

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Ja c k s o n B e e r C o m pa ny B e e r S a m pl i n g

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1. Sally Starks and Michael Mosher 2. Sam Pryor and Jondelyn Catlette 3. Max Victory and Jason Woodruff 4. Vanessa Gomes Wong and Allen Jackson 5. Matt Halderman, Chace Mallein and Andrew Piskulich 6. Holly Williams, Sarah Morgan Pellum, Daniella Davis and Anna Spears 7. Chante Edwards and Jessica Clark

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OUT & ABOUT VIEW MORE PHOTOS AT INVITATIONOXFORD.COM

Hou s e f i re s C o nc e r t

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1. Shelby Broadway, Jordan Holman, Emma Baldwin and Garrett King 2. Bryce Hunt, Ben Salvador and Timothy Chavez 3. Rob Brown, Colton Cook and Ethan Reichle 4. Amanda Heavner, Beth Skinner and Nancy Davis 5. June Pryor and Tiffeny Owens 6. Karen and Jim Travillo with Beth and Joe Skinner 7. Bryan Dixon and Andre Ingram

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MISSISSIPPI’S BEST

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MISSISSIPPI’S BEST

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smart F U E L for F I T N E S S WHAT YOU EAT AND DRINK BEFORE, DURING AND AFTER EXERCISE AFFECTS THE EFFICIENCY OF YOUR WORKOUT AND POST-WORKOUT RECOVERY. WRITTEN BY DEIDRA NELSON, MS, RDN, LDN

Fitness is a vital component of a healthy lifestyle. It not only helps reduce obesity, but also lowers the risk of heart disease, improves gut health and decreases stress. Have you ever thought about how the foods we eat impact our workouts?

The goal of fitness is to improve health, but improper food choices when exercising can do the opposite.

UNDERSTAND NUTRIENTS

Carbohydrates provide energy during workouts. They can be found in a variety of foods, including bread, pasta, rice, fruit and milk.

Protein is also needed to ease muscle soreness and prevent muscle loss. Protein is found in eggs, meat, dairy and plantbased sources.

EAT SMART

You may have heard that runners consume large amounts of pasta and bread before they compete in races. For most people who are exercising as part of a

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PHOTOGRAPHED BY JOE WORTHEM

daily routine, a lighter smoothie, like the Raspberry Mango smoothie on page 96, or a granola bar 30 minutes to one hour before exercise will suffice to fuel up.

Leave the large plates of pasta to the marathon runners.

Although exercise provides many benefits, it also causes inflammation, and we lose nutrients when sweating. Antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids can ease inflammation, and potassium, sodium and fluids help replenish nutrient losses. Red and purple fruits and vegetables are rich in antioxidants, as are some spices, such as turmeric. Some fish, nuts and soy products contain omega-3s, and bananas, tropical fruits, avocados, potatoes and greens are good sources of potassium.

REPLENISH

We also need to replace energy stores used during exercise. About 15 to 30 minutes after exercising, have a snack such as chocolate milk, a sports bar or a healthy parfait as recommended by the Academy

of Nutrition and Dietetics and the United States Olympic Committee. When choosing a sports bar, go for a ratio of 3 grams of carbohydrates for every 1 gram of protein.

You can build your own parfait using Greek yogurt, berries and a little granola.

About two hours after exercise, eat a healthy meal that contains a balance of carbohydrates, protein and fat. The exact amounts depend upon the individual and the intensity of the exercise. Turn the page for some healthy recipe suggestions.

HYDRATE

It’s important to hydrate before, during and after exercise. Water is always the best source of hydration. Sport drinks often contain artificial colors and additives, so try to opt for water instead and eat a balanced diet before and after exercising.

We all want to get the most benefit from our workouts and stay in the best shape possible. Being mindful of how we fuel our bodies is one way to make our workouts work for us.

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smart F U E L for F I T N E S S continued RECIPES BY DEIDRA NELSON, MS, RDN, LDN

RASPBERRY MANGO PRE-WORKOUT SMOOTHIE Start to finish: 5 minutes Servings: 1 ½ cup fresh mango, diced 1 cup fresh raspberries ½ cup frozen cauliflower 1 cup skim milk or soy milk Blend all ingredients until smooth, and serve.

ASIAN-INSPIRED QUESADILLAS Start to finish: 15 minutes Servings: 2 2 burrito-sized whole-wheat tortillas ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese ½ red bell pepper, lightly sautéed ¼ cup cooked edamame ½ cup shredded purple cabbage 2 ounces cooked chicken Salt and pepper to taste Deidra Nelson is a registered dietitian nutritionist based in Memphis, Tennessee.

She currently works as a community and wellness dietitian and operates a nutrition blog, destinationmoderation.com, focused on finding the good in everything you eat.

Heat large nonstick skillet over medium heat.

Coat with cooking spray, if desired. On 1 tortilla, layer ¼ cup cheese, vegetables and chicken. Top with the remaining cheese, and cover with second tortilla. Place in skillet, and cook 3-5 minutes on each side, until golden brown. Cut in half.

ROASTED VEGETABLE TEMPEH BOWL Start to finish: 45 minutes Servings: 2 1 medium zucchini, sliced 1 red bell pepper, chopped 1 cup fresh or frozen corn 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided 8 ounces tempeh 1 teaspoon ground cumin ¼ teaspoon each of salt and pepper, plus more to taste Optional: Sliced avocado Lime wedges Heat oven to 425°F. Add zucchini, peppers and corn to a rimmed baking sheet, and toss with 1 tablespoon olive oil, and salt and pepper to taste.

Roast for 25-30 minutes, until vegetables begin to caramelize, stirring occasionally.

While vegetables are roasting, heat remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Slice tempeh, and season all sides with cumin, ¼ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper. Add tempeh to skillet, and brown on all sides, about 7 minutes. Build each bowl with half of vegetables and tempeh. Serve with sliced avocado and lime wedges, if desired.

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36 Picking the Perfect Pumpkin

47 Fall Fashion Lookbook

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Letter From the Publisher

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Calendar

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Shoutouts

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InstaLove: Carrie Bradshaw Lied

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Restaurant Guide

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In Season: Athleisurewear

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Out & About

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Recipe: Smart Fuel for Fitness

For many families, spending an October Saturday at a pumpkin patch is an annual fall tradition.

41 Couture Shock

An Ole Miss alum and an Oxford High School student share trials and triumphs in the world of fashion modeling.

60 Aiming High: Skeet Shoot for Young Life

In the midst of dove hunting season, a local ministry commemorates Oxford’s Mike Overstreet with a unique fundraiser.

64 Healing in the Hills

Therapists use the landscape of north Mississippi as a tool for addiction recovery.

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We teamed up with a stylist and raided the closets of Invitation Magazines staff to put together new looks from old favorites.

ON THE COVER Ole Miss student Janie Poulton models a suede jacket and more in the special fashion section on page 47.

PHOTOGRAPHED BY JOE WORTHEM

OCTOBER 2018

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Mary Day

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Crosstown Classic

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Night for Nonprofits

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Burgers and Blues

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Ford Center Gala

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John Crist Comedy Tour

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Thursday Night Fights

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9/11 Day of Remembrance

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Yoga in the Grove

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OHS Theatre: “The Nerd”

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L E T T E R from the P U B L I S H E R There’s something about the fall I enjoy more than any other time of the year. I think it has to do with the beauty of the sunlight at dawn and dusk. And a bright harvest moon on a cool fall night is just about perfect in my book. Fall reminds me that the time has come to get outside and celebrate cooler weather and seasonal offerings, whether on a bike trail, a golf course, a football field or in your own backyard.

Nowhere have I enjoyed a better autumn experience than last October at Bull Bottom Farms in Duck Hill. The farm with its fields ripe with pumpkins in all colors, shapes and sizes is something that you shouldn’t miss this year. For my family and me, traipsing

FOLLOW US

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through the fields until we found our prize pumpkin was the perfect way to usher in the month of October.

In this issue, we invite you to catch up with Taylor Phillips in New York and Haley Hewitt in Oxford, both professional models.

Their experiences on their respective roads to the runway are inspiring and funny. Then flip a few pages over and look through our fashion pages beginning on page 47. We took a different approach this year, featuring our staff’s favorite go-to items and must-haves for fall. The shoot was a fun day of mixing and matching tried-and-true wardrobe items we love to wear and that mean something to us for many different reasons.

@INVITATIONOXFORD

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We hope you enjoy this issue, and we’d like to extend a special thank you to all of our advertisers this month. This issue marks our 12th year of doing business in Oxford — we’ve produced over 120 magazines since October of 2006. We are grateful for their continued support.

RACHEL M. WEST, PUBLISHER Note: Last month’s letter contained an error. The 2001 Ole Miss game against Arkansas was played in Oxford, not in Little Rock.

@INVOXFORD

PUBLISHERS Phil and Rachel West

EDITORIAL

EDITOR IN CHIEF Allison Estes EXECUTIVE MANAGING EDITOR Mary Moreton CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Emily Welly CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Caitlin Adams Brooke Hutson Gibson Sarah McCullen Lucy Schultze SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR Sarah McCullen COPY EDITOR Kate Johnson

OFFICE

BUSINESS MANAGER Hollie Hilliard DISTRIBUTION Donald Courtney Brian Hilliard MAIN OFFICE 662-234-4008

ART

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Holly Vollor STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Joe Worthem CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Sarah McCullen Jessica Richardson Talbert Toole Megan Wolfe CONTRIBUTING ILLUSTRATOR Sarah McCullen

ADVERTISING

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

To subscribe to one year (10 issues) of Invitation Oxford or to buy an announcement, visit invitationoxford.com.

To request a photographer at your event, email Mary at mary.invitation@gmail.com.

Invitation Oxford respects the many diverse individuals and organizations that make up north Mississippi and strives to be inclusive and representative of all members of our community.

PLEASE RECYCLE THIS MAGAZINE

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C OM M U N I T Y

C A L E N DA R Muscadine Bloodline Concert

Bodock Festival

OC TOBER 4

The Pontotoc Chamber of Commerce hosts its 25th annual Bodock Festival with arts and crafts vendors, food, a pageant, a twilight run, a bike tour, a car show, games for kids and live entertainment in downtown Pontotoc. Opens Thursday at 6 p.m., Friday and Saturday at 9 a.m.

The Alabama-based duo recently released their first album, “Movin’ On,” with a signature style that melds Southern rock and classic country. Minors must be accompanied by an adult. Tickets $12-$15.

Doors open at 7 p.m., show at 8 p.m., The Lyric Oxford.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY ATLANTIC RECORDS

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O C T O B E R 1 1 -1 3

thelyricoxford.com

Rainbow Kitten Surprise Concert OC TOBER 23

Columbus Day OC TOBER 8

OLE MISS

FOOTBALL O C TO B E R 6

Ole Miss vs. Louisiana Monroe Homecoming TBA

This genre-defying band from the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina performs songs from their recently released album, “How to: Friend, Love, Freefall.”

Minors must be accompanied by an adult.

Tickets $15-$89. Doors open at 7 p.m., show starts at 8 p.m., The Lyric Oxford. thelyricoxford.com

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Ole Miss at Arkansas TBA O C TO B E R 2 0

Southern Foodways Fall Symposium O C T O B E R 1 1 -1 3

The Southern Foodways Alliance at the University of Mississippi holds its 21st annual symposium, “Reading Food: From Menus to Soap Operas to Novels.”

Chefs, food writers and experts explore a range of topics related to Southern food and culture, with lectures, meals, tastings and other experiences. Tickets must be purchased in advance. southernfoodways.org

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Ole Miss vs. Auburn TBA

One Night Stand O C TOB ER 13

A dozen local artists take over 12 rooms at the Ole Miss Motel, transforming it into a gallery. Attendees can view and purchase the art for one night only. A private preview hour includes a first look at the art and a small dinner.

Preview 5-6 p.m., tickets $20.

Public viewing 6-9 p.m., free.

The Great 38 O C T O B E R 2 6 -2 8

The third annual race weekend honoring former Ole Miss football player Chucky Mullins includes 3-mile, 8-mile and half-marathon courses ending at VaughtHemingway Stadium at the 38-yard line, in honor of Mullins’ number. Proceeds benefit the Chucky Mullins Foundation and Palmer Home for Children. Registration $20-$75. The 3- and 8-mile races begin at 7:30 a.m. on Saturday; the half marathon begins at 7 a.m. on Sunday. runoxford.com

Tailgate for Palmer OC TOBER 27

Join this tailgating fundraiser while the Rebels take a week off. Enjoy food from Oxford’s best restaurants and caterers while viewing SEC games on the Jumbotron. Proceeds benefit Palmer Home for Children. Tickets $75-$125. 7-11 p.m., the Manning Center. palmerhome.org

The Wizard of Oz O C T O B E R 2 9 -3 1

The Oxford High School Theatre production adds a macabre twist to the classic story, just in time for Halloween.

Tickets $10. 7:30-9 p.m., Kayla Sue Mize Auditorium at Oxford Middle School. oxfordsd.org

Terror in Turner OC TOBER 30

Sponsored by Ole Miss Campus Recreation, this haunted house combines trick-or-treating with wellness activities, encouraging children of all ages to make healthy choices this Halloween. Free.

5-8 p.m., the Turner Center.

Halloween OC TOBER 31

It may be Wednesday, but spooky events pop up all over town tonight. Watch out for trick-or-treaters, and check Invitation Oxford’s Facebook, Twitter and Instagram feeds for a complete round-up of all the Halloween happenings in Oxford.

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S H O U T O U T S 2nd C h a nc e M S

C ot to n Wo o d D e s i g n s

October is National Magic Month. For the 22nd consecutive year, award-­winning magician and Oxford local Steve Thomas will perform at the Mall at Barnes Crossing in Tupelo on Oct. 31, which is National Magic Day. Thomas has been practicing magic for more than 40 years.

He is scheduled to perform two shows — one at 6 p.m. and one at 7:15 p.m. — as part of the mall’s free Halloween celebration, which also includes trick-or-treating at participating stores throughout the mall. Thomas’ aweinspiring shows are enjoyable for all ages.

“People think of magic as something for their 3-year-old kid, but they aren’t spending $1,000 for them to see Penn Jillette,” Thomas said. “When I do a show, no one is left out.”

As the years pass, souvenir T-shirts from special events, concerts and trips can accu­ mulate and wind up unworn, stuffed in a dresser drawer.

Judy Wood of Oxford, founder of Cotton Wood Designs, gives new life to these old shirts by snipping and sewing them into memory quilts.

“The quilts are the perfect way to preserve T-shirts that you just can’t let go of, but that you don’t really wear anymore,” Wood said. “A person’s T-shirts tell their life story.”

Wood made her first T-shirt quilts in 2016 for her husband and two children, who declared them the best gifts they had ever received. Since then, she has made about 55 quilts to celebrate birthdays and graduations.

Recently she began partnering with Coleman Funeral Home to make T-shirt quilts memorializing deceased loved ones.

Each quilt takes several weeks to create. To place an order, call or text 662-801-8516, or email Wood at judyannwood56@gmail.com.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY STEVE THOMAS

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PHOTO BY NATALIE WOOD

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY 2NDCHANCEMS

Mississippi’s high school dropouts now have the opportunity to further their education and acquire the skills necessary to qualify for jobs with familysustaining wages, thanks to 2ndChanceMS Inc. The organization partners with community colleges all over the state to financially assist adults who are returning to school or who wish to pursue work skills training.

“Community colleges have the infrastructure to provide these things, but their biggest barrier is recruitment and retention,” said executive director Zach Scruggs. “Most adults who are going to community colleges to get their GED or any kind of workforce training are lower-income, more likely than not, and are going to have hurdles or barriers that keep them from completing the course.”

Hurdles include things like tuition, childcare, transportation, and even food and shelter. 2ndChanceMS helps cover these expenses, enabling adults to pursue training to fill 40,000 open jobs all over the state, like certified nursing assistants, pharmacy technicians, manufacturing positions and more.

“Some students are just one flat tire away from dropping out, but 2nd Chance is here to make sure they don’t have to,” Scruggs said.

Since its conception, 80 adults have received high school equivalency certificates, and 145 received workforce certifications through 2ndChanceMS. The organization held its first benefit gala September 13, raising more than $90,000 for the program. For more information or to make a donation, call 601-265-1895 or visit one.bidpal.net/2ndchancems.

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instaL O V E C a r r ie Bra d s h aw L ie d

When California-based fashion blogger Kathleen Barnes was attending the University of Mississippi, the TV show “Sex and the City” was in its heyday, and Barnes was an avid viewer. Carrie Bradshaw and the other characters in the show led

fantasy lives, their calendars full of dates sipping Cosmopolitans in New York City’s award-winning restaurants, their closets full of designer clothing and Manolo pumps.

Their rewarding jobs and lavish lifestyles embodied many a young woman’s dreams for life after college, and Barnes was no exception. But it didn’t take her long to realize that her post-grad paycheck wasn’t going to fund regular shopping sprees at Nordstrom. Barnes’ Instagram account, Carrie Bradshaw Lied, shows how to achieve a high-end look on a real-life paycheck.

Barnes’ Instagram page is full of vibrant colors, interesting textures and beautiful scenery. The page funnels viewers to her blog, which gives tips and tricks about how to repurpose items in your wardrobe, like wearing a dress as a shirt or transitioning your little black dress from day to night. She posts when quality fashion and accessories she loves are on sale, but she only promotes brands that fit her goal of attainable luxury.

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“I love to inspire others, but I enjoy motivating girls even more,” Barnes said.

“Mix and match in your own closet. Let me show you 10 ways to style that $10 scarf.

You don’t have to spend a million bucks to look like a million bucks.”

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AT H L E I S U R E W E A R WRITTEN BY SARAH McCULLEN

Most things are better when they’re multipurpose, and that includes workout clothes. Great “athleisurewear” combines style and comfort with quick-dry technology, facilitating an effortless and appropriate transition from the gym to wherever you’re headed next. However, quality pieces that wick away sweat without sacrificing style can be expensive, so use these simple tricks to care for your workout wear and preserve your investment.

Fresh air is athleisurewear’s best friend.

Stuffing sweaty clothes in your hamper or gym bag creates a breeding ground for bacteria and mildew. Allow clothing to air out after a workout, and dry in the sun for about 30 minutes after washing. A short stint in breezy sunshine kills lingering bacteria, but the heat of the clothes dryer wreaks havoc on techy clothes.

Your athletic shoes also benefit from fresh air. Opt for synthetic socks that wick away sweat, and remove your shoes as soon as possible after a workout so sweat doesn’t soak into the soles. If you do start to notice an odor, sprinkle about ½ teaspoon baking soda in each shoe to absorb moisture and odors. If your shoes are dirty, wash them by hand using a gentle scrub brush, mild soap and a little cool water, and let them air-dry.

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To keep colors vibrant and maintain the fabric and fit of your workout wear, follow these steps for laundering from Rinse.com and Esquire advice columnist Jolie Kerr: - Wash athleisurewear inside out, in cold water.

- Separate cotton and synthetic fabrics to avoid pilling.

- Use as little detergent as possible, and avoid fabric softener completely — the residue clogs “pores” in high-tech fabrics, inhibiting breathability and trapping odors.

- Soak extra-smelly items in a one-to-one solution of vinegar and water for 30 minutes before washing. Vinegar helps remove residues and odors.

- Hand-wash pieces with Velcro or zippers to avoid abrasion and snagging on other fabrics.

- Hang or lay flat to dry, preferably outdoors in the sunshine.

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OXFORD SK YLINE $65 BOARD & BRUSH CRE ATIVE STUDIO

FL AWLESS FINISH $ 47 AMY HEAD

E T TA B P OT TERY TRUCK FULL OF PUMPKINS $76 OLIVE JUICE

T H E CH EL S E A W ED G E I I | S O R EL $19 9.95 AUSTIN'S SHOES

R A Y- B A N T H E B L A Z E C O L L E C T I O N $ 1 8 8 A LOOK AHEAD

PUMPKIN TE A TOWEL S $22 E ACH OLIVE JUICE

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SPECIALITY ORTHOPEDIC GROUP

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F O R M A N Y FA M I L I E S , S P E N D I N G A N O C T O B E R S AT U R D AY AT A PUMPKIN PATCH IS AN ANNUAL FALL TRADITION. WRITTEN BY BROOKE HUTSON GIBSON

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PHOTOGRAPHED BY JOE WORTHEM

No matter what your age, there is something magical about a pumpkin patch. Rows of bright orange orbs still on the vine, ready to be claimed. Giant piles of pumpkins in all shapes, shades and sizes. Running through a corn maze and hopping on a hayride.

A local farm that has become a fall tradition for many Mississippi families is Bull Bottom Farms in Duck Hill.

From 1944 to 2010, the Robinson Family Farm had been a row-crop (predominantly cotton) and cattle farm. In 2010, Earl and Vickie Robinson, along with their oldest son, Nic, and his wife, Katie, decided to try their hand at agritourism and welcome outside guests.

Grenada high school sweethearts and Ole Miss alums, Katie and Nic were living in Nashville at the time and drove home to the farm every weekend that first fall to help Nic’s parents get Bull Bottom up and running.

“We needed to make sure it was going to be a success before we gave up our Nashville careers and home to move back to Mississippi like we really wanted to,” Katie said.

The Robinsons’ large leap of faith eight years ago began to pay off. Katie and Nic left their sales jobs and headed home to Duck Hill.

“Coming home to work on my family farm has been an amazing and humbling experience,” Nic said. “I have thoroughly enjoyed getting to work alongside my wife and parents as we have literally built this business from the ground up together as a team. I have an entirely new perspective on what it really takes to be a farmer.”

“Looking back at that first year is very humbling,” Katie said. “We had a corn maze, one variety of pumpkins in our patch, a corn box, a cow train, and that was about it.”

The community supported them, and their simple start was a success. The Robinsons have continued to grow Bull Bottom Farms and add more attractions each year. The Bull Bottom pumpkin patch produces more than 30 varieties of pumpkins, and the list of attractions now includes: Corn Box, Cow Train, Corn Maze, Magic Carpet Slide, Hay Ride,

Animal Park, Jumping Pillow, Fun Fort, Sand Mountain, Tiny Town, Hay Jump, Corn Cannon, Face Painting and Balloon Art. New to the farm this year is an air-conditioned gift shop filled with souvenirs, home decor, stocking stuffers and gift items.

“As far as activities go, I would say the biggest hit for years now has been our Magic Carpet Slide,” Katie said.

“It’s 10 feet high, 150 feet long, and it’s as scary as it is fun.”

The Robinsons believe the peaceful and friendly atmosphere at Bull Bottom Farms is what sets it apart from other pumpkin farms.

“When you walk through our gates, you are greeted with warm smiles from everyone that works there,” Katie said. “We pray for the safety of our customers and for families to be brought together through Bull Bottom Farms.

We are thrilled that we are able to offer a safe environment for them to spend time with their children and teach them about agriculture at the same time.”

The Robinsons hope families will make the drive to Duck Hill this fall, explore the farm and all of its attractions, enjoy some barbecue or nachos from the concession stand, and find the perfect pumpkins to take home and set on the front porch.

“It’s been very rewarding getting to make the farm that I grew up on beautiful and enjoyable for our entire community,” Nic said. “I am thrilled to be doing this, and I can’t imagine raising my kids anywhere else.”

“We love our customers, and I think that shows,” Katie said. “We do our best to make our farm look beautiful and clean, and we are always looking for new ways to make the customer’s experience more memorable and fun each year.”

Bull Bottom Farms is open the last weekend in September, every weekend in October and the first weekend in November. The hours are Saturdays, 10 a.m.–8 p.m., and Sundays, 1–5 p.m. Admission is $10 per person (children age 2 and under are free). For more information, go to bullbottomfarms.com.

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COUTURE SHOCK I T M AY L O O K E A S Y, B U T T H E R U N WAY I S N O C A K E WA L K .

AN OLE MISS ALUM AND AN OXFORD HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT SHARE THEIR TRIALS AND TRIUMPHS IN THE WORLD OF FASHION MODELING. WRITTEN BY CAITLIN ADAMS

Modeling may seem like a glitzy gig of seasonal fashion shows and monthly glossy magazine spreads, but for two Oxford residents (one former and one current), the glam life comes with a daily dose of reality. The profession involves a lot more than fashion shoots and globetrotting. Just like any career, it’s chock-full of hard work, long days and some letdowns. Ole Miss alum Taylor Phillips and Oxford resident Haley Hewitt have their own unique stories about finding their way in front of the camera.

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TAYLOR PHILLIP S Taylor Phillips didn’t find instant success in his modeling career. The Ole Miss alum was originally scouted online when he was a 17-year-old high school student living in southern Indiana. He had never been on a plane before but flew to New York City to meet with agents, photographers, and do everything “models do.” The efforts were all for naught.

“Long story short, it was all a scam, and nothing came of it,” he said.

Instead, Phillips finished his senior year of high school and set his sights on the University of Mississippi, where he went on to serve as an Ole Miss Ambassador and an Associate Student Body Senator and was runner-up for Mr. Ole Miss. In between game days in the Grove, trips to Sardis Lake and eating his favorite grilled cheese sandwiches at The Downstairs Bar, Phillips was once again discovered during his junior year. His agent found him while scouting on Instagram, and suddenly his grilled cheese days were replaced with clean eating and sweating it out.

“I spent the rest of my time at Ole Miss in the Turner Center getting myself into shape and focusing on living a healthier lifestyle,” he said.

His hard work and discipline paid off.

Phillips booked a job for Brian Atwood, who designs all the shoes for the Victoria’s Secret fashion show. The job was for a

high-fashion shoot in Milan, Italy, in which Phillips posed holding women’s shoes.

“It was such a cool experience because it was one of my first jobs and my first high-fashion shoot,” Phillips said. “To work with such an incredible designer and team was great.”

Since then, Phillips’ bookings have been consistent. He has been in ad campaigns for Macy’s, Perry Ellis and Target brands. But his favorite gig to date was a print ad for Kohl’s, which was included in the mailer of his mom’s newspaper.

“To see her and her friends, and even my friends from college sending me my picture from an ad was cool,” he said.

Phillips travels all over the world for modeling work and likes to take trips for fun at least once a month. He documents his jet-setting on his Instagram feed for his devoted followers — 125,000 to be exact — who love to keep track of “where in the world” Phillips is.

While his life is now a blur between shoots and workdays spent at a technology startup, Phillips recalls his years at the University of Mississippi as some of his most memorable — he was simply making friends and learning about himself as he experienced life on his own away from family.

“Looking back, I can’t believe I actually had the experience I did,” Phillips said. “It's sort of like a little bubble in time.”

Taylor Phillips photographed by Christian Alexander, Taylor Miller and Stevan Reyes

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HALEY HEWITT Modeling came about by process of elimination for Oxford High School senior Haley Hewitt. At 5 feet 11 inches tall, Hewitt has always been one of the tallest in her class, but it wasn’t until she had gone through a laundry list of extracurriculars that she found the catwalk.

“My parents were just like, ‘You know, you’re so tall, let’s just throw you into every sport,’” Hewitt said with a laugh.

Hewitt played it all: volleyball, softball, swim team, cross-country. Nothing stuck.

“I hated it the whole way through,” she said. “I was like, ‘I really think I’m just allergic to sports.’”

But Hewitt wasn’t allergic to working out. She loved being active and staying fit, and her physique caught the eyes of professionals. When she was 16, she was asked to participate in a fashion show in Jackson, where she was invited to attend a three-day workshop in New York City. The whirlwind trip north was a blur between agency meetings, chatting with models on set to learn any tips, and having every inch of her body scrutinized.

“They just whip out a tape measure and put it around your waist or hips,” Hewitt said. “And they’ll say, ‘You need to lose however many inches on your waist and clear up your skin.’ They give you all these things to work on.”

It was a change of environment for the

teen, who grew up among Southern manners and hospitality. Those in charge of the workshop were blunt with their feedback and did not mince words. It seemed like everything Hewitt knew needed tweaking — even the way she walked.

“I had no idea this was a thing before I started, but there is a specific walk you have to do on the runway,” she said.

But after just three days in the city, Hewitt knew she had finally found her extracurricular.

“Once I was up there, I never looked back,” she said.

This past summer, Hewitt lived in New York City and signed with Wilhelmina Models, a modeling and talent agency.

She has yet to model in a campaign and is instead spending the next few months back in Oxford working out, finishing high school and spending time with friends. Since signing her contract, Hewitt has had to modify her diet and maintain a certain body type as part of Wilhelmina’s “fresh faces” sector, a group of models scouted for their natural looks. It’s an exercise in discipline for a teen who loves pizzas at Saint Leo and everything on the Jinsei menu.

But it’s well worth it for Hewitt, as she sets her sights on returning to the Big Apple.

“I’m getting through this year and then ready to go up there and for the dream to start,” Hewitt said. “Or continue, I guess.”

Haley Hewitt photographed by Jenny Anderson OC TOBER 2018 | INVITATION OXFORD

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AMY HEAD

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CL ASSIC, VINTAGE AND C O N T E M P O R A R Y FAVO R I T E S SOURCED FROM OUR OWN WARDROBES

STYLED BY SALLEY AGNEW PHOTOGRAPHED BY JOE WORTHEM

Modeled by Janie Poulton and Invitation Oxford staff.

Props provided by Sugar Magnolia.

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TWEED IS A CLASSIC CHOICE AND A PERFECT FIT THIS SEASON. WEAR IT WITH A STRIKING PAT TERN TO MODERNIZE THE LOOK.

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MAKE A STATEMENT BY PAIRING BOLD JEWELRY WITH A CRISP WHITE S H I R T A N D YO U R FAVO R I T E J E A N S .

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L AY E R E D L O O K S T H AT B L E N D TEXTURES ARE VERSATILE AND IDEAL FOR FALL WEATHER.

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MIX GEOMETRIC PAT TERNS WITH SOLID COLORS TO MAKE TRADITIONAL ST YLES STAND OUT.

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FROM SUPPLE SUEDE TO FAUX FUR, OUTERWEAR IS ESSENTIAL TO A FASHIONABLE FALL WARDROBE.

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EVERYONE NEEDS A GO-TO FALL J AC K E T T H AT C A N S U C C E S S F U L LY PULL TOGETHER ANY OUTFIT.

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BEAUTIFUL ACCESSORIES ADD POWER AND PUNCH TO WARDROBE BASICS.

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AN EYE-CATCHING SCARF C L E V E R LY F O L D E D A N D T I E D BRINGS NEW LIFE TO CLASSIC LOOKS.

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IN DOVE HUNTING SEASON, A LOCAL MINISTRY REMEMBERS A PROMINENT SUPPORTER AND COMMUNITY MEMBER WITH A UNIQUE FUNDRAISER.

WRIT TEN AND ILLUSTRATED BY SAR AH McCULLEN

People who knew Mike Overstreet tend to have similar memories of him. A hardworking farmer, accountant and real estate developer, he cared about the community, serving on numerous boards and committees; and he lifted spirits with his warm, happy demeanor. An avid outdoorsman, he made time for things he loved, like hunting and shooting skeet with his family.

“Mike just had a childlike quality of having fun,” his wife, Helen, said. “He was always smiling.”

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Mike died in March 2018, but his memory lives on through a new clay shooting fundraiser, the Mike Overstreet Memorial Sporting Clay Tournament. The proceeds benefits Young Life, a nationwide program that introduces middle school, high school and college-age students to Jesus Christ and offers them opportunities to deepen their faith. The students meet weekly in clubs where they play games, sing, connect with others their age and hear simple messages about God’s love for them. They also have the opportunity to attend Young Life camps and go on other trips.

Helen first experienced Young Life in 1974, when she was a high school student

in Dallas. She remained connected to the ministry over the years, serving as a Young Life committee member, and she’s been an ardent supporter of the Oxford branch since its inception in 2005.

“Mike didn’t know a thing about Young Life until it came here,” Helen said.

“I think the singing is what Mike really fell in love with. I don’t know anyone else at 71 years old that keeps up with contemporary Christian music, so he loved connecting to the kids at Young Life.”

The Overstreets hosted Young Life leadership meetings at their home and grew to know and love the staff. They supported the ministry financially for years, but

Helen said she always wanted to do more.

After Mike died, two of Oxford’s Young Life directors approached Helen about a fundraiser in Mike’s name.

“Years ago, Mike dreamt about doing a clay shoot, but it didn’t come into fruition,” former director Bryan Spillman said. “This whole thing was really Mike’s idea, and he never got to see it actually happen, but it seems like a really appropriate, wonderful way to celebrate him and his involvement with Young Life.”

The tournament takes place Oct. 12, with Matt and Dolly McClendon hosting on their land about 20 minutes outside Oxford.

Teams of four are invited to participate. Each team member has an opportunity to shoot at 10 stations, with different-sized clay targets thrown mechanically at different heights.

Registration is $500 per team.

“The tournament is run by Howell Traps from Enterprise, Alabama, and they run every station and keep score, so it will be pretty self-explanatory,” Young Life director Brad Akin said. “Little to no experience is needed, and men and women alike are invited.”

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PHOTO PROVIDED BY HELEN OVERSTREET

Participants supply their own firearms, typically 12-gauge shotguns, along with their own ammunition. Long-sleeved flannel shirts, thick khakis, boots, and shooting vests are smart attire for cool October mornings. Canvas or leather bags are great additions for carrying gear.

“This is the kind of sporting activity where you can dress a little nicer,” Spillman said. “You don’t have to wear athletic gear, really, so it’s a little bit of a fancier sporting event.”

All proceeds from the shoot support Oxford’s Young Life programs. Currently, there are four: one at Oxford Middle School, known as WyldLife; one at Oxford High

Above: Mike Overstreet with stepson Rob Cornelius.

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School; one at Lafayette High School; and another at the University of Mississippi. The operating budget for Oxford’s Young Life programs this year is $290,000, a portion of which employs the directors and another part-time employee. The goal is to raise $30,000 through the clay shoot.

“By participating in the clay shoot, you’re benefiting a local ministry,” Spillman said. “Your entry fee, or whatever way you give, that gift will go way beyond you and that day. It will help [reach the] kids. We’re reaching our teenagers, in our town.”

“Adolescents need help navigating life, and we’re there to do that,” Akin said.

“There are so many destructive things that

pull adolescents down, so our ministry is an opportunity to choose against those destructive paths, and we provide people to help them with that.”

Akin hopes the tournament will raise awareness of the organization.

“This is a totally new event for Oxford,” Akin said. “To bring a new event for the sportsman in Oxford is really fun.”

Helen said she knows her husband would love the idea of the clay tournament as a benefit for Young Life, since it combines both the sport and the ministry he loved so dearly. “[Mike] would be pleased as punch,” Helen said.

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HEALING IN THE HILLS THERAPISTS ARE USING THE LANDSCAPE OF NORTH MISSISSIPPI AS A TOOL FOR ADDICTION RECOVERY. WRIT TEN BY LUCY SCHULT ZE

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PHOTOGRAPHED BY JOE WORTHEM

Six young women have been hiking for three hours by the time they reach the summit. They are sore, sweaty and frustrated — exactly where Katherine Westfall wants them to be.

“We intentionally make it difficult yet achievable,” said Westfall, a wilderness therapist at Oxford Treatment Center’s Lafayette Countybased addiction treatment facility. “Even when the road ahead of us is hard, the only way to reach the goal is to just keep walking.”

The metaphors along the trail are many, as therapists like Westfall help direct people down a new path of recovery from drug or alcohol addiction. In the past, treatment sessions at recovery centers typically took place in office or classroom settings. But today, therapists are finding that when they also work with clients through outdoor activities, it speeds progress in treatment.

Therapist Troy Young leads the wilderness therapy program at Oxford Treatment Center.

“What it’s really about is providing an experience where people forget they’re in therapy,” Young said. “Out here, their real issues come to the surface much more quickly.”

People from across the country come to get help for drug and alcohol problems at the sprawling 110-acre campus off Highway 30 between Oxford and New Albany. Oxford Treatment Center can house more than 100 clients at a time. About 80 percent are from out of state.

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trails, challenge course, volleyball court and disc golf course. There’s even a meditation labyrinth and a vegetable garden that clients and therapists tend together.

Therapists also use public recreation sites around Oxford and beyond, from hikes along the University of Mississippi’s South Campus Rail Trail to canoeing on the Tallahatchie River.

The center has a special program for people ages 18-25 that includes overnight small-group camping trips in Tishomingo State Park.

There, the many activity options allow therapists to tailor the program to the abilities and needs of each group, with rock-climbing as a central element of the trips.

The experience at OTC is a stark contrast to the sterile settings young people often associate with therapy.

“They imagine they’re going to be sitting in an office with somebody who’s going to psychoanalyze them and ‘fix’ them,” Young said. “They’re resistant already. But wilderness therapy breaks down those barriers.”

Wilderness therapists like Young and Westfall apply dual expertise, both in mental health counseling and in outdoor adventure programming.

Their sessions help people uncover and deal with the issues that have fueled drug and alcohol problems in their lives.

“Around the campfire, the walls between people are gone — both literally and metaphorically,” Westfall said. “People are more open than they would be in other settings. They become so vulnerable and genuinely want to help each other. They know that by helping each other, they can help themselves as well.”

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HOW WILDERNESS THERAPY AIDS RECOVERY FROM DRUG AND ALCOHOL ADDICTION

OPENS UP THERAPEUTIC CONVERSATION

When people are active outdoors, it’s easy to forget that they’re in therapy — which makes it easier for therapy to take place. Talking with a therapist while hiking or fishing removes the clinical aspect, making it easier for people to open up.

ENCOURAGES MINDFULNESS

In early recovery, few things are more dangerous than anxious, repetitive thoughts — and the habit of using drugs or alcohol to numb them. That’s why mindfulness (the practice of being fully present in the moment) is increasingly being used as a tool in treatment and recovery. Being active outdoors is one of the best opportunities to learn how to focus on the experience at hand.

PRESENTS CHALLENGES TO OVERCOME

Whether it’s disc golf for young men or nature-immersive hiking for young women, the physical activities built into wilderness therapy trips are designed to be challenging.

They offer a real-world exercise in dealing with frustration while also opening up a world of metaphors for the recovery journey.

INTRODUCES POSITIVE WAYS OF HAVING FUN

Therapeutic activities can open the door to meaningful pastimes after treatment. On overnight camping trips, therapists intentionally build in some downtime, so that clients can practice finding something positive to do. Because being bored can be a dangerous thing in early recovery, clients practice making good choices about how to spend their time, like reading a book or going fishing.

TEACHES ABOUT HARD WORK AND RESPONSIBILITY

Addiction treatment today employs a range of evidence-based tools and approaches, but lasting recovery still takes hard work. That’s why, on camping trips, therapists always start with the chore of setting up camp before beginning the fun activities, demonstrating how work is necessary before play. Similarly, rest becomes a tool for teaching delayed gratification.

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M ARY DAY PHOTOGRAPHED BY MEGAN WOLFE

Oxford Treehouse Gallery hosted Mary Day: A Celebration of Womanhood, Art and Grace Aug. 15. The event included a curated Mary-themed art show, potluck, procession and ceremonial fire. Proceeds benefited Doors of Hope Transition Ministries.

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1. Shannon Curtis, Vivian Neill, Wren Webb and Mary Margaret Andrews 2. Ryan Pierce with James, Hannah and Juaurice McCormick 3. Hunter Williams and Bree Starnes 4. Dale Abadie and Robert Riggs 5. Mary Solomon and Walter Neill 6. Susan Bartlett and Owen Phillips 7. Billy Crews and Ralph Eubanks 8. Jere and Paige Allen with Britt and Kelly Young 9. Dorothy Howorth and Suzanne Graham

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CROSSTOWN CLASSIC PHOTOGRAPHED BY MEGAN WOLFE

The 47th annual Oxford vs. Lafayette Crosstown Classic football game took place Sept. 7 at Bobby Holcomb Field. The Oxford Chargers defeated the Lafayette Commodores 29-27.

View more photos at invitationoxford.com.

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1. Umarian Jeffries, Canderious Bland and Egypt Arrington 2. Karlie Ann Beckham and Grace Purdy 3. D.J. Davis, Jay Tillman, Keondre Overstreet and Adam Tyson 4. Brie Johnson, Leiland Humphrey, Addison Johnston 5. Robert, Teri and Laurel Neese 6. Cara and Beth Garner

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7. Massey Grace Russell and Larry Massey 8. Caroline Harris, Braylon Robinson and Allie Tapp 9. Michael and Tina Clark 10. Cody Depriest and Kayla Hughes 11. Tiffany and Lex Gray with Wendy Pfenger 12. Janiya Vaughn, Shaniah Sample and Braylon Robinson

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NIGHT FOR NONPROFITS PHOTOGRAPHED BY MEGAN WOLFE

Night for Nonprofits, sponsored by the Lafayette Oxford Foundation for Tomorrow, was held Aug. 16 at the Powerhouse. The event showcased the 2018 grant award finalists and awarded more than $50,000 to local nonprofit organizations.

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1. Marylaine Thames, Madalyn Sullivan, Ava Lee Joiner and Abby Morrison 2. Robin and Denny Buchannon with Tom Lombardo and Karen Christon 3. Katrenia Meeks and Alice Malone 4. Donna Taylor and Linda Keys 5. Hubert Spears, Kerri Greene and Stephanie Young 6. Sarah Liddy and Nancy Maria Balach 7. John Maxey and Ken McGraw 8. Chris Vick, James Holley and Donnie Wilson

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BURGERS AND BLUES PHOTOGRAPHED BY JESSICA RICHARDSON

Ole Miss Wesley Foundation held its annual Burgers and Blues cookout Aug. 23. The special guest speaker was Ole Miss head coach Matt Luke.

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1. John Walker Webb, William King, Noah Grovich, Steve Guyton and Taylor Phillips 2. Thomas McAlilly, Kayla Mattox and Ben Salvador 3. Hudson and Ellis Parnell with Gina and Wes Sigler 4. Matt Luke and Eddie Willis 5. Mary Russell Perry, Sarah Kathryn Harris and Katie Topper 6. Ethan Rainey and Reese Neely 7. Selby and Lydia Willis with Cecilia Pringle 8. Drake Wilson and Caitlyn Jackson 9. Jess Cooley, Nick Castellanos and Nick Pagoria 10. Matthew Jackson and Ben Larson with Shiloh 11. Trip Johnson, Katrina Gately and Ben Maples 12. Megan Wadsworth and Emma Rice

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FORD CENTER GALA PHOTOGRAPHED BY TALBERT TOOLE

The Capital Campaign Gala for the Ford Center was held Sept. 6 at the Gertrude C. Ford Center for the Performing Arts. The event included hors d’oeuvres in the lobby, followed by a backstage tour and seated dinner onstage with live music.

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1. Charlotte and Paul Parks 2. Lucius Lamar, Mary Ann Fruge and Kerry Hamilton 3. Jake Gibbs and Linda Scarbrough 4. Anna Kathryn Brown, Gwynne Brunt and Ingrid Brown 5. Bill and Carol Dye, Pickett and Jody Scruggs, and Rose and Huburt Spears

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JOHN CRIST COMEDY TOUR PHOTOGRAPHED BY MEGAN WOLFE

Comedian John Crist performed Sept. 9 at the Ford Center, as part of The Good Medicine Comedy Tour. The family-friendly event was sponsored by Chick-fil-A.

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1. Connor, Lance, Amanda, Camden and Cade Reed 2. Troy and Robbie Comer with Brandon and Kristy Hardin 3. Katelin Rhodes, Misty Parmer and Anna Cooper 4. Ron and Amy Bradley with Jeff Credille and Eric Pittman 5. Elena and Sheila Lowery with Tabitha and Angie Beckwithe 6. Scott, Lois, Natalie and Ruben Applewhite 7. Philip and Carol Carpenter with Steve and Janice Fielder 8. Alex and Kim Schweigart 9. Laura, Rimes and Keith Kent 10. Hailey and Meredith Edwards 11. John Verner and Gentry Thompson 12. Dylan Gunter and Marlee Hatcher 13. Victoria Bamburg and Carly Horton

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JOHN CRIST

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THURSDAY NIGHT FIGHTS PHOTOGRAPHED BY MEGAN WOLFE

The Lyric Oxford hosted Thursday Night Fights: Live Boxing Aug. 30, benefiting the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Lightweight to heavyweight boxers participated in 10 fights with three rounds.

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1. Walker Shirling, Brian Knight and Omar Alvares 2. Cameron Cain, Matt Chambley, Mike Cain and Jeff Chambers 3. Steve and Jason Margen with Katie McLain 4. Miles Luber, Hayden Campbell, Harlan Yerger, Ross Shows, Trip Maxwell and Drew Carter 5. Hailey Walley, Nicole Sardi, Emily Anderson, Alex Marsden and Mekial Simmons 6. Josh Busby and Blake Freemen 7. Tracy Harris and Josh Price 8. Chyna and Leonard Fields 9. Sarah Sides and McKenna Mason

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OXFORD HOME FURISHINGINGS

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9/11 DAY OF REMEMBRANCE PHOTOGRAPHED BY SARAH McCULLEN

The L.O.U. community held a Day of Service and Remembrance ceremony Sept. 11 at the Old Armory Pavilion to honor and thank first responders, veterans and others who serve the community.

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1. Virginia Dorris, Robert Patterson and Laura Martin 2. Collins Bryant, John Davis and Mary Lee Henderson 3. Deb Helms, Marlee Carpenter and Arledia Bennett 4. Jeremy Cook, Kendall Brown and Jane Mahan 5. Micah East, Scott Mills and Omar Ahmed 6. Robyn Tannehill, Matt McKenzie and Kara Giles 7. Josh Ferguson and Timmy Pruitt 8. Alan Wilburn and Joey Gardner

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YOGA IN THE GROVE PHOTOGRAPHED BY SARAH McCULLEN

RebelWell and Southern Star Yoga Center hosted the 5th Annual Labor Day Yoga in the Grove Sept. 3. The family-friendly class included yoga instruction for multiple skill levels and mat giveaways.

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1. Russell and Anna Barnes 2. Susan Boyette and Karen Simmers 3. Ai Nakayama and Marcella Netto 4. Laurie Katz, Esther Bloomekatz and Amy Rosen 5. Tony Halcin and Rodney Holley 6. Chloe and Tess Johnson 7. Mary Katherine Baglan and Angie Fowler 8. Kurt and Bailey Pollack 9. Jill and Miley Stevens

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OHS THEATRE:“THE NERD” PHOTOGRAPHED BY SARAH McCULLEN

Oxford High School Theatre opened its 2018-2019 season with a production of the comedy “The Nerd” Sept. 11-13 at the Kayla Mize Auditorium on the Oxford Middle School campus.

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1. Jess Edge, Molly Archer and Bella Young 2. Campbell McCready, Grace Logan, Cady Pittman and Emily Davis 3. Bekah Moen and Lindsey White 4. John Davenport and Jordan Caviezel 5. Richard Gershon, Donna Levine and Claire Gershon 6. Lucas Jordan and Zeke Yarbrough 7. Paschal Wilson and Brooklyn Whitehead 8. Kaye Bryant and Sue Gobert 9. Catherine Creekmore, AC Rester and Ellen Williams 10. David Torrent, Matthew Solomon and Damarius Wilson

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

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OUT & ABOUT VIEW MORE PHOTOS AT INVITATIONOXFORD.COM

T he Rou nd Ro b i n : C o n s u lt at io n s W it h S m a l l Bu s i ne s s E x p e r t s

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1. Sally Starks and Michael Mosher 2. Sam Pryor and Jondelyn Catlette 3. Max Victory and Jason Woodruff 4. Vanessa Gomes Wong and Allen Jackson 5. Matt Halderman, Chace Mallein and Andrew Piskulich 6. Holly Williams, Sarah Morgan Pellum, Daniella Davis and Anna Spears 7. Chante Edwards and Jessica Clark

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OUT & ABOUT VIEW MORE PHOTOS AT INVITATIONOXFORD.COM

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1. Shelby Broadway, Jordan Holman, Emma Baldwin and Garrett King 2. Bryce Hunt, Ben Salvador and Timothy Chavez 3. Rob Brown, Colton Cook and Ethan Reichle 4. Amanda Heavner, Beth Skinner and Nancy Davis 5. June Pryor and Tiffeny Owens 6. Karen and Jim Travillo with Beth and Joe Skinner 7. Bryan Dixon and Andre Ingram

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MISSISSIPPI’S BEST

OC TOBER 2018 | INVITATION OXFORD

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MISSISSIPPI’S BEST

94

INVITATION OXFORD | OC TOBER 2018

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smart F U E L for F I T N E S S WHAT YOU EAT AND DRINK BEFORE, DURING AND AFTER EXERCISE AFFECTS THE EFFICIENCY OF YOUR WORKOUT AND POST-WORKOUT RECOVERY. WRITTEN BY DEIDRA NELSON, MS, RDN, LDN

Fitness is a vital component of a healthy lifestyle. It not only helps reduce obesity, but also lowers the risk of heart disease, improves gut health and decreases stress. Have you ever thought about how the foods we eat impact our workouts?

The goal of fitness is to improve health, but improper food choices when exercising can do the opposite.

UNDERSTAND NUTRIENTS

Carbohydrates provide energy during workouts. They can be found in a variety of foods, including bread, pasta, rice, fruit and milk.

Protein is also needed to ease muscle soreness and prevent muscle loss. Protein is found in eggs, meat, dairy and plantbased sources.

EAT SMART

You may have heard that runners consume large amounts of pasta and bread before they compete in races. For most people who are exercising as part of a

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PHOTOGRAPHED BY JOE WORTHEM

daily routine, a lighter smoothie, like the Raspberry Mango smoothie on page 96, or a granola bar 30 minutes to one hour before exercise will suffice to fuel up.

Leave the large plates of pasta to the marathon runners.

Although exercise provides many benefits, it also causes inflammation, and we lose nutrients when sweating. Antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids can ease inflammation, and potassium, sodium and fluids help replenish nutrient losses. Red and purple fruits and vegetables are rich in antioxidants, as are some spices, such as turmeric. Some fish, nuts and soy products contain omega-3s, and bananas, tropical fruits, avocados, potatoes and greens are good sources of potassium.

REPLENISH

We also need to replace energy stores used during exercise. About 15 to 30 minutes after exercising, have a snack such as chocolate milk, a sports bar or a healthy parfait as recommended by the Academy

of Nutrition and Dietetics and the United States Olympic Committee. When choosing a sports bar, go for a ratio of 3 grams of carbohydrates for every 1 gram of protein.

You can build your own parfait using Greek yogurt, berries and a little granola.

About two hours after exercise, eat a healthy meal that contains a balance of carbohydrates, protein and fat. The exact amounts depend upon the individual and the intensity of the exercise. Turn the page for some healthy recipe suggestions.

HYDRATE

It’s important to hydrate before, during and after exercise. Water is always the best source of hydration. Sport drinks often contain artificial colors and additives, so try to opt for water instead and eat a balanced diet before and after exercising.

We all want to get the most benefit from our workouts and stay in the best shape possible. Being mindful of how we fuel our bodies is one way to make our workouts work for us.

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smart F U E L for F I T N E S S continued RECIPES BY DEIDRA NELSON, MS, RDN, LDN

RASPBERRY MANGO PRE-WORKOUT SMOOTHIE Start to finish: 5 minutes Servings: 1 ½ cup fresh mango, diced 1 cup fresh raspberries ½ cup frozen cauliflower 1 cup skim milk or soy milk Blend all ingredients until smooth, and serve.

ASIAN-INSPIRED QUESADILLAS Start to finish: 15 minutes Servings: 2 2 burrito-sized whole-wheat tortillas ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese ½ red bell pepper, lightly sautéed ¼ cup cooked edamame ½ cup shredded purple cabbage 2 ounces cooked chicken Salt and pepper to taste Deidra Nelson is a registered dietitian nutritionist based in Memphis, Tennessee.

She currently works as a community and wellness dietitian and operates a nutrition blog, destinationmoderation.com, focused on finding the good in everything you eat.

Heat large nonstick skillet over medium heat.

Coat with cooking spray, if desired. On 1 tortilla, layer ¼ cup cheese, vegetables and chicken. Top with the remaining cheese, and cover with second tortilla. Place in skillet, and cook 3-5 minutes on each side, until golden brown. Cut in half.

ROASTED VEGETABLE TEMPEH BOWL Start to finish: 45 minutes Servings: 2 1 medium zucchini, sliced 1 red bell pepper, chopped 1 cup fresh or frozen corn 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided 8 ounces tempeh 1 teaspoon ground cumin ¼ teaspoon each of salt and pepper, plus more to taste Optional: Sliced avocado Lime wedges Heat oven to 425°F. Add zucchini, peppers and corn to a rimmed baking sheet, and toss with 1 tablespoon olive oil, and salt and pepper to taste.

Roast for 25-30 minutes, until vegetables begin to caramelize, stirring occasionally.

While vegetables are roasting, heat remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Slice tempeh, and season all sides with cumin, ¼ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper. Add tempeh to skillet, and brown on all sides, about 7 minutes. Build each bowl with half of vegetables and tempeh. Serve with sliced avocado and lime wedges, if desired.