Magnolia State of Mind 2014

Magnolia heART & CRAFT in Mississippi

AUGUST 2014

State of Mind

AUG

23-24 Trade Mart JACKSON 100% Mississippi 100% Handmade THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE MISSISSIPPI CRAFT SHOW

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Mississippi craft show 2014

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Membership eligibility limited to anyone who works, lives, attends school, worships or volunteers in Hinds, Rankin, Madison, Copiah, Simpson, Leake, or Northern Scott County in Mississippi. All Loans subject to credit approval. Some restrictions may apply.

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Magnolia State of Mind Tshirts. Available Now. 5.3 oz., pre-shrunk 100% cotton.

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Assisting artists, non-proots & businesses of all sizes who need good service & advice at an affordable price.

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There is no greater legacy to leave than a beating heart that would not have had a chance had it not been for

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www.randam-art.com

Magnolia

of Mind 12 your titleState here AUGUST 2014

Magnolia State of Mind™ is the official companion magazine for the Mississippi Craft Show™ published

by Mississippi Craft Show, LLC

EDITOR & DESIGNER 18 your title here Miranda Jordan

GRAPHIC DESIGN Amanda Lucius Miranda Jordan CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Jess Delrie Rachel Deer Lynnsey Douglas PQ Hudson Miranda Jordan Moni Troth Liz Walker In addittion to those lited above, The Mississippi Craft Show™ and Magnolia State Of Mind™ would not be possible without the assistance and dedication of the following people: Keith Armstrong April Mitchell Blackwell Tim Delrie Mandy Kate Myers Louis Roubion Susan Britt Roubion Sandra Robinson Slawson Darrell Troth

“I cannot do all the good that the world needs. But the world needs all the good that I can do.” -- Jana Stanfield

ON THE COVER: “Shade Tree Mechanic” by Sandra Stewart, Picayune, MS. See P. 25 for details.

If you would like to write for, or otherwise be involved in the 2015 Magnolia State of Mind magazine, please email magnolia@mscraftshow.com for information.

Copyright © 2014 Mississippi Craft Show LLC. All rights reserved. Magnolia State of Mind™ is the official companion magazine for the Mississippi Craft Show™ and is published by Mississippi Craft Show, LLC., PO Box 2291, Ridgeland, MS 39158.

Ph. 601.790.0654. magnolia@mscraftshow.com. All materials contained in this magazine are protected by copyright law and may not be used without written permission of MS Craft Show, LLC or in the case of third part materials, the owner of that content. Mississippi Craft Show® and Magnolia State of Mind® and distinctive logos are trademarks owned by Mississippi Craft Show, LLC.

mscraftshow.com | magnoliastateofmind.com

/mscraftshow

Contents 10. From Here to Eternity 11. A Woman of Many Dimensions 12. Funky Flair 13. From Folk Art to Fiber 14. Let’s Go Shopping 15. Supercalifabulishous 16. MS Craft Show Exhibitors 18. More 2014 Exhibitors 20. My Southern Wild 21. Sassy Paisley 22. For The Animals

Cedarhill Animal Sanctuary

Beneficiary of the 2014 Show 25. My Mississippi 26. Paintings, Piggy Banks and Pit Bulls

Shaw Pit Bull Rescue

Beneficiary of the 2014 Show 28. TEAAM Autism

Beneficiary of the 2014 Show 30. Angelic Artwork 31. Sweet By and By 32. Divergence from Convention 33. Hammers, Fire & Imagination 34. Bangles and Baubles 35. Bekart Studio 36. Coverings for Baby 37. Simply More Mosaics 38. 2014 Exhibitors Continued 40. In the Market for Manners 42. Copiah Animal Shelter

Supported by the 2014 Show 43. Win a VIP shopping Spree

$250 to spend & a Limo to the Show!

An electronic version of this magazine can be found online.

Visit www.mscraftshow.com for information.

AUGUST 2014 | Magnolia State of Mind

7

Introduction Miranda Jordan, Director

The goal of the Mississippi Craft Show is two-fold, blending together two very important missions symbiotically.

The first purpose is to showcase the creativity and talent of the artists and craftspeople of the Magnolia State, and to connect our artist with those who value their creations. We believe in fostering the appreciation and understanding of true handmade art and craft; Its importance and contribution to the local economy, should be acknowledged. We achieve this not only by adhering to strict rules designed to respect and preserve the quality of handwork items available at our Show, but by providing a setting that allows shoppers to meet the crafts people, talk to them about their work, and view demonstrations of craft techniques.

The people who buy and support handmade are as vital to the creative economy as the artisans who could not stay in business without them. It is our great joy to bring you this truly 100% Mississippi handmade show.

Our second purpose is to support Mississippi Charities. We do this not only by donating proceeds from the Show, but also by working diligently to promote the charities we support. Along with our printed magazine, Magnolia State of Mind, which is distributed around the state and read online by over 10,000 people, we also engage in constant online promotion via our website and social media. Thus increasing community awareness of the organizations we support.

Donating money from the show’s proceeds is just one aspect of what we provide to our charities. In the two years pervious we have donated money and goods to the value of almost $20,000. But it doesn’t end there. We do much more than just hand over a check.

By allowing the charities to have a presence at the Show, we have been able to effectuate additional donations from those who attend our shows. According to reports from previous beneficiaries this total is in excess of $8000 to date. There were also literally trailer loads of food donated to past beneficiaries from our on-site pet food drives, and many homeless animals were adopted from the adoption drives we presented at our past events.

This year we are thrilled to be able to donate to three undeniably worthy charities.

Cedarhill Animal Sanctuary; Shaw Pit Bull Rescue; and TEAAM Autism. We are also supporting Copiah Animal Shelter. You can read more about each of these amazing organizations inside the magazine and on our website.

Myself and a group of my amazing friends, without whom none of this would be possible, hope you will join us at the Mississippi Craft Show in August for a fun-filled weekend. And know that when you do, you’ll be helping to support your community.

See you at the show!

Miranda

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Magnolia State of Mind | AUGUST 2014

6 Reasons to buy

Mississippi Handmade 1. Boosts Local Economy: Buying locally handmade is a boost to the economy and community. The money you spend stays in your area.

2. Customization: Many artisans will happily produce items that are custom, one of a kind, and uniquely personalized.

Welcome First Lady, Deborah Bryant

Dear Friends,

3. Meeting the Maker: You gain a unique connection with an artisan when you meet and talk directly the very the person who made the item with their own hands.

Welcome to the Mississippi Craft Show. What you are about to see is truly amazing! We have been celebrating the Year of the Creative Economy in 2014, and I’m glad you are here to join in the fun. From music to literature to pottery and everything in between, Mississippi overflows with creativity.

4. Quality: You simply cannot compare mass produced products to artisan created goods in terms of inspiration, quality, and attention to detail. The raw materials are better, the workmanship is superior, and the finished product is truly something to be treasured and enjoyed.

I am so grateful that the artists on display today have chosen to share their passion and gifts with each of us. When I think of the long hours and attention to detail put into each piece, I am overwhelmed with appreciation for their contributions. Their ingenuity and imagination never ceases to amaze me.

5. Uniqueness: There is also an undeniable, irreplaceable element in every handcrafted item. A spirit and soul that dwells within each item in a way that mass production cannot replicate. A handmade gift conveys to the recipient that you cared enough about them to buy something as individual as they are.

6. You’re helping the environment: Buying locally can greatly reduce your carbon footprint because products haven’t been shipped from the other side of the world.

This show not only highlights the originality of our state’s craftsmen, it also illuminates the generosity of the people who live here by benefiting local charities. Children with disabilities and rescue animals are very dear to me. I can’t think of a better way to show my heartfelt support than by purchasing some handmade goodies!

I had a wonderful time visiting the booths at last year’s event and look forward to returning with my family again this year.

Blessings,

Deborah Bryant AUGUST 2014 | Magnolia State of Mind

9

From here

By Liz Walker

J

to eternity

asper and Terrance Orr are soul mates and business partners.

As co-owners of J&T Woodworks, this Christian couple is dedicated to providing unique gifts that are custom pieces of art, and no two are ever the same.

Growing up on a farm with no running water, certain conveniences were too expensive. His father was gifted in analyzing how things mechanically worked, and if the family had a need that was not affordable, he would build it from simple supplies on hand.

Jasper was inspired by his dad, as he learned the significance of hard work and completing a task with excellence. When he was 10 years old, he discovered his creative talent after hearing the phrase “build a better mouse trap and people will beat a path to your door”. And yes, his first project was a mouse trap.

T

oday, Jasper has refined his gift for “turning nothing into something“. Using actual doors from vintage USPS lock boxes from around the country, he creatively and beautifully recycles them to create individual boxes that become personal banks. He also likes to incorporate picture frames, pedestals and a wide variety of other accessories to make each piece a genuine original.

The line has expanded to include the creation of wood spinner, cedar bird houses, and recreations of the 1 9 2 9 Cadillac, 1930 Packard, and 1934 Chevy. The cars are fascinating pieces as well, and the Cadillac romper seat actually comes out and

Photo by Mi

randa Jordan

folds down into the trunk. His current projects include a 1951 Ford, and an 1800 Steam Engine Train, complete with the coal car and mail car.

Jasper is completely self-taught and shares, “When I decide to create something, my prayer is that God will show me how. And He does. Sometimes it comes through trial and error, but I learn from my mistakes and that’s one of the things I like. Every day is different and unique in its own way, and so are my creations. Each one takes me to another level that I’m very appreciative of.”

For the 6’3” gentle giant, one of his greatest rewards is the awestruck face of a child, when they handle his banks, trucks, or cars.

Watching their eyes light up as they repeatedly open and close the different combination doors, over and over again.

“My goal is to create items that will be here long after I have passed and gone. My motto is everything I create comes with a life time warranty. The warranty is good as long as I’m alive!” 

J&T Woodworks | Byram Jasper Orr (601-209-1376

8www.jtwoodworks.net View full profile at: mscraftshow.com/jtwood

Photo by Miranda Jordan

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Magnolia State of Mind | AUGUST 2014

Dimensions A Woman of many

By Liz Walker

Photo supplied by artist

G A

“ The heart of human excellence often begins to beat when you discover a pursuit that absorbs you, frees you, challenges you, or gives you a sense of meaning, joy, or passion.” – Terry Orlick

abriella DeLawey’s heart began beating profoundly in 8th grade, when she won first place for her mixed media work in two different competitions. She may not have known it then, but one day her passion would also become her purpose. s the daughter of a career military family, Gabriella has lived in seven states, three foreign countries, and attended nine schools in twelve years. She says those formative years helped to make her more observant, creative, adaptable, and imaginative.

“I approach all of my work intuitively, and am open to changing directions; incorporating mistakes and throwing out anything I lose interest in“, she says. “For me, there is a sixth sense about what flows well together, what competes, and what repels. I always go with my instincts.”

T

his award winning artist began creating contemporary gourd art in 1995, focusing on fine art craft. Her interpretation of Van Gogh’s masterpiece Starry Night , a two year labor of love, is her all time favorite piece.

Purchasing gourds from vendors allows a much loved space for flowers in her garden, where she spends her free time when she is not creating her unique, one of a kind creations. She also makes mixed media figurative assemblages, using a “found” object as the body and sculpts a head or face, adding arms and sculpted hands, using paper clay. To date, six of her sculptures have been accepted into six top ranking juried art shows, and have taken home two awards. Blending her distinctive sense of humor with her whimsical side, she is currently working on a series of primitive cloth dolls with “slightly” abstracted heads. And while her creative tendencies lean toward simple and uncomplicated, DeLawey reveals that her work has become more ornate since living in Mississippi. She feels that infusing a dose of Mississippi “bling” has made her doll and fiber designs only better.

Now THAT, is truly embracing a “magnolia state of mind”.  Studio 2n3d| Grenada Gabriella DeLawey (662-294-0980 View full profile at: mscraftshow.com/studio2n3d

Photos supplied by artist

AUGUST 2014 | Magnolia State of Mind

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FunkyF l a i r

By Jess Delrie

D

pplied by

artist

eciding what you want to be when you grow up is a common theme in life.

And so it was for Jessica Humphreys of JH Artwear and Designs. Having just graduated from college, Jess, as she is known to her friends, was deciding between more school and work when quite unexpectedly a local store owner inquired about the jewelry she was wearing.

The earrings, made by Jess, made quite an impression and soon Jess was supplying her designs to retail outlets. That fateful encounter and the enthusiasm others had expressed in her designs, led Jess to create even more.

Photos su

Describing herself as a self-taught jewelry artisan, Jess holds a degree in Studio Arts which is helpful in her pursuit to create unique pieces of wearable art, whimsical paintings, and fabric hair accessories.

Jess is drawn to the flexibility of wire and finds it lends itself well to her funky style. Each unique piece created is hand crafted with the use of a jig or pattern.

T

he art doesn’t stop with jewelry either! Jess also enjoys painting on wood in styles that carry on her “funky flair”. Painting in bright colors with bold lines, Jess creates one-of-a-kind artwork that often includes written quotes or sentiments. Verses, poetry, even song lyrics show up on her work. Painting is more than just a hobby for Jess though, as she finds it relaxing as well. “Its hard to be stressed

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Magnolia State of Mind | AUGUST 2014

when you have happy thoughts cycling through your head, so painting is as much as a mental break for me as anything else.”

Jess explains.

Gathering influence from a number of places, Jess makes a myriad of items. From jewelry, to paintings, to hand-stitched flowers for the hair, her character and free spirit shines brightly in her work.  JH Artwear & Designs | Corinth Jessica Humphreys (662-415-8378

View full profile at: mscraftshow.com/jhartwear

From Folk Art to Photo by Miran da

Jordan

Fiber

By Jess Delrie

I

neke Pearson of Pearson Ceramics, Feathers and Flies, was born in Holland to a crafting mother. In her early years Ineke wasn’t much of a crafter herself, with the exception of designing and sewing her families clothing. But once she moved to Mississippi in 1982, that all changed.

I

Photo by

neke began with woodwork, cutting pieces of wood with her husbands help, she then painted them.

Her style was Dutch folk art, which is her inspiration. After calling her

er, to encourage art that represented Ineke’s heritage. It was then that she learned more about the history of folk art, which was done by fisherman in Holland during the winter months. Ineke was drawn to the flowers, birds, and natural deep colors of her native folk art style.

Miranda Jordan

A

fter painting folk art on wood, Ineke aspired to learn what those colors and designs would look like on ceramics.

After forming, painting, and firing the clay, she decided that it wasn’t turning out quite like she’d hoped. It did, however develop her love of ceramics!

T Photos by Sa

ra Gatlin

Pearson Ceramics, Feathers & Flies | Clinton Ineke Pearson (601-924-8618 View full profile at: mscraftshow.com/ipearson

mother and talking about all the crafting fun that was happening in Mississippi, Ineke received a folk art book, a gift sent by her moth-

oday Ineke continues her ceramic pursuits, but also creates other forms of art! She now makes jewelry using beads that she makes from clay. In addition, she has an amazing talent for creating one of a kind knitted shawls and scarves. Ineke enjoys crocheting hats for babies that include pom poms or flowers on top. She also creates hats for adults, as well as a range of other fiber creations. Each hat, large or small utilizes different yarns and threads to craft each unique item. Putting to good use the skills she has amassed, Ineke also creates one of a kind jackets including knitted or crocheted pieces in each garment. Her favorite piece she has ever created is a jacket that her daughter wears. To this day, her daughter still receives many compliments on the jacket each time she wears it. 

AUGUST 2014 | Magnolia State of Mind

13

Let’s Go Shopping

S

tained glass hand made in Bogue Chitto, MS by Jerri Smith. To make each piece, Jerri carefully cuts and grinds the glass by hand, wraps it with copper foil and solders the pieces together using historic Tiffany methods. Each piece is then cleaned polished thoroughly until it shines. All of Jerri’s creations are her own original designs. Jerri makes an assortment of items in glass. including windows, large and small panels, sun-catchers, picture frames, wind chimes, plant and garden stakes, fan pulls, boxes, night lights, and more. She also does repair work on damaged stained glass pieces.  Creations in Glass | Bogue Chitto ( 601-734-2923 View full profile at: mscraftshow.com/creationsinglass

Designs by ME | Prentiss Mary Evans makes recycled jewelry such as crosses, earrings, bracelets, rings, pendant drops. ( 601-382-2057 View full profile at: mscraftshow.com/mevans

da Jordan

Photo by Miran

Connie’s Creations | Petal Connie Bowman makes bath and body products and soy candles. ( 601-606-8874 View full profile at: mscraftshow.com/conniescreations

Photo by

Miranda

Jordan

Photo by Miranda Jordan

A

self-taught artist, Arlene Harrison combines her love of painting and polymer clay to create primarily home decor and jewelry items. She particularly enjoys making mosaics that include custom tiles and incorporates them into items including trinket boxes that are both unique and useful. 

Harrison Hollow Designs | Star ( 601-954-5485 View full profile at: mscraftshow.com/harrison

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Magnolia State of Mind | AUGUST 2014

Photo supplied by artist

llll

Supercalifabulishous adjective

1. Handmade treats available at the Mississippi Craft Show.

2. You’ll want some.

Yazoo Toffee Company | Yazoo City Terry Vandevere makes gourmet English toffee.

( 662-571-1032 View full profile at: mscraftshow.com/yazootoffee

Photos by Miranda Jordan

MeMaw’s Cheese Straws | Yazoo City Angie Edgar makes cheese straws, sugar cookies, & traditional trash mix. ( 662-571-6805

View full profile at: mscraftshow.com/memaws

Kassy’s Kones & Concessions | Laurel Kassy Freeman makes kettle corn & pork skins.

( 601-580-6551 View full profile at: mscraftshow.com/kassy

Make Mine Fabulous | Ridgeland Frances Anthony makes cakes, cupcakes, decorated sugar cookies, peanut brittle, whoopie pies, pretzels, and candied apples. ( 912-492-9134

View full profile at: mscraftshow.com/makefab

M i ss i ss i pp i C raft S h o w E x h i b i t o rs 2 0 1 4

Lizzie Grace Boutique

Frames & Thangs

CeeBee’s Jewelry

Children’s Clothing

Mosaics, Crosses & Frames

Repurposed Jewelry

( 601-513-5293 8 View full profile at:

mscraftshow.com/lizziegrace

( 601-896-1383 8 View full profile at:

mscraftshow.com/wfloyd

( 601-842-7388 8 View full profile at:

mscraftshow.com/ceebee

Picture Mississippi

Scarborough Fair Jewelry

Photography by Kim Hunt

Chain Maille Jewelry

( 601-260-2021 8 View full profile at:

mscraftshow.com/lightgrafix

( 601-829-0247 8 View full profile at:

Brandon

mscraftshow.com/scarborough

Jewelry By Randy

LoLeigh’s

Windham’s Woodworks

Fine Wire Jewelry

Leather and Copper Creations

Lathe Turned Wooden Items

( 601-613-0581 8 View full profile at:

mscraftshow.com/randyw

( 601-750-3769 8 View full profile at:

mscraftshow.com/loleighs

( 601-862-8615 8 View full profile at:

mscraftshow.com/windham

GingyCake

DCZ Designs “Nature’s Jewelry”

Green Parrot Pottery

Silkscreen Bags and Apparel

Artisan Jewelry

Stoneware Pottery

( 707-599-8376 8 View full profile at:

mscraftshow.com/gingycake

( 601-421-0808 8 View full profile at:

mscraftshow.com/dczdesigns

( 601-954-4131 8 View full profile at:

mscraftshow.com/greenparrot

Randam Art

FeatherMore

Glassware and Reliquary Art

Hand Painted Feathers

( 601-208-0880 8 View full profile at:

mscraftshow.com/randamart

Madison & Ridgeland

( 662-722-2776 8 View full profile at:

mscraftshow.com/feathermore

Musee Bath

Rushing Images

Sew Pink and Blue

Hand Pressed Bath Balms

Photography & Wood Frames

Children’s Clothing

( 769-300-0485 8 View full profile at:

mscraftshow.com/musee

( 601-853-9478 8 View full profile at:

mscraftshow.com/rushing

( 601-606-6174 8 View full profile at:

mscraftshow.com/sewpinkandblue

2014 MISSISSIPPI Craft Show

Heatherwood Crafts | Jackson Wood Turning & Engraving ( 601-956-4568

High Strung Jewels | Jackson Handmade Necklaces ( 601-941-5441

View full profile at: mscraftshow.com/heatherwood

Janice’s Upcycled Vintage | Indianola Upcycled Vintage Jewelry ( 662-588-3830

View full profile at: mscraftshow.com/ccook

Kreations| Louisville Wire Wrapped & Monogrammed ( 662-803-9855

View full profile at: mscraftshow.com/janicedowns

New Life Creations | Collins “No Dig” Purses ( 601-765-4856

View full profile at: mscraftshow.com/kreations

MPM Designs | Jackson Stained Glass ( 662-316-2219

View full profile at: mscraftshow.com/newlife 18

Magnolia State of Mind | AUGUST 2014

View full profile at: mscraftshow.com/jmclennan

Creations by ‘D’ | Ocean Springs Wire Wrapped Jewelry ( 228-341-9944 View full profile at: mscraftshow.com/dwcook

Fudge Etcetera | Meridian Fudge. 25 flavors. ( 601-917-1020 View full profile at: mscraftshow.com/fudgeetc

Muddy Mushroom | Greenwood Functional Sculptured Pottery ( 662-453-6127 View full profile at: mscraftshow.com/mudshroom

how ExhibitorS 2-DYE-4 | Tylertown Lauren & Russell Autin make handcrafted tie-dye clothing & accessories for all ages. ( 601-876-4274 View full profile at: mscraftshow.com/2dye4

Hinkle Creek Pottery | Corinth Lynn Barnwell makes hand crafted stoneware pottery. ( 662-462-8341 View full profile at: mscraftshow.com/hinklecreek

Lloyd Lewis The Toy Maker | Laurel Lloyd Lewis makes wooden toys for all ages made from maple and walnut. Hand rubbed finish, which is child safe. ( 601-319-5943 View full profile at: mscraftshow.com/llewis

Misha Cole Designs | Pearl Michele Vaughn makes hand painted signs, dry erase boards, and picture displays. ( 601-985-8189 View full profile at: mscraftshow.com/mishacole

S&R Custom Creations | Walnut Sandra Waller makes vintage re-purposed rings, bracelets earrings, necklace & magnets. ( 662-223-0583 View full profile at: mscraftshow.com/waller

Hi Yall! Made In The South | Starkville Catherine Ann Davis makes silkscreened pillows, stationery apparel & Acrylic paintings. ( 662-316-0399 View full profile at: mscraftshow.com/hiyall

Woodworking By Buster | New Albany Charles Buster makes wooden jewelry boxes, peppermills, walking canes, clocks, etc. ( 662-316-2499 View full profile at: mscraftshow.com/buster

AUGUST 2014 | Magnolia State of Mind

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My Southern Wild

C

hances are, if you are from Mississippi and have a friend or family member who loves the outdoors, then you’ve seen one of Joe Mac Hudspeth’s books sitting on their coffee table. (If you haven’t, then you should get them one. They’ll love it!) His first coffee-table book, In the Southern Wild, was published in 2003. His second book, Return to the Southern Wild, was self-published in 2011. His latest book, My Southern Wild, is a collection of deer, ducks, turkeys, alligators, gallinules and Mississippi scenery that he has captured during his career as a wildlife photographer.

That career spans quite a journey started in the fields and rivers of North Mississippi in the late 1960’s. Joe has always been an avid outdoorsman, and always carried a Kodak Instamatic camera with him to capture “trophy” shots of deer and fish. He still recalls his first “wildlife” photo was a sunning screech owl that let him get within a few feet before it flew away, but it was the start of a hobby that would become a passion. A couple of photography books, several cameras, and progressively more powerful zoom lenses later, Joe was getting closer to capturing the shot of his dreams: a full-frame photo of the most beautiful of all ducks, in his opinion, the wood duck. Success came early one morning in a PVC-frame blind when at least twenty wood ducks landed just feet away. As they fed and preened, Joe had to continue waiting until there was enough sunlight to photograph them. Taking 10 rolls of film that morning, Joe had finally accomplished his goal. His passion and skill only improved from there.

Joe credits his success as a wildlife photographer with patience, perseverance, and “being in the right place at the right time.” Obviously, 20

Magnolia State of Mind | AUGUST 2014

By Lynnsey Douglas

when reading about his journey, you come to learn that it’s a whole lot more than just that. It’s a life’s work of capturing the beauty of our home. It’s years of developing a talent for capturing the spirit of Mississippi on film. It’s seeing what makes Mississippi special, capturing it, framing it, and putting it on display for everyone to enjoy. 

Wildlife Photography | Brandon Joe Mac Hudspeth, Jr (601-992-0752 8www.southernfocus.com View full profile at: mscraftshow.com/joemac

Sassy Paisley F

By Monique Troth

rom neophyte seamstress outfitting her daughter to designer with international customers, Janet Lashley of Sassy Paisley Designs has covered quite a distance in only ten years! Originally from High Point, NC, Janet and her family moved to Hattiesburg, Mississippi, in 2000.

When her oldest daughter, now 14, started preschool, all the other kids were dressed in cute but very expensive outfits so Janet decided it was time to learn to sew.

Janet says, “My mom made some of our clothes when I was little. When I was a tween I wanted to sew, and my mom tried to show me, but I think neither one of us had the patience for it. Back then all sewing patterns were on onion skin paper, and you had to first cut the pattern, then pin to fabric, and cut exactly. Let’s just say my attention span got in the way.” Years later, as a mom wanting to give her daughter the same adorable outfits she saw on other children, Janet bought a book on sewing (the well-known Sewing for Dummies).

When her nine-yearold wanted a designer purse, Janet thought she would try to make it herself. That bag turned out so well that Janet was soon making more for birthday presents and then to sell. And Sassy Paisley Designs (named after Janet’s younger daughter Jillian Paisley, now ten) was born.

With a modern style and a company motto that says “fashion should be fun,” Sassy Paisley specializes in fun colors that pop and funky prints. Choosing fabrics and designing products are Janet’s favorite parts of the business, and she says she also loves to use a retro look when she can. Janet’s favorite bag so far is a large tote bag made out of scraps.

As the design is quite difficult to sew, it’s not for sale, but it’s definitely eyecatching!

Photo by Mi

randa Jordan

Since she’s also a full-time CPA, Janet generally works into the wee hours of the night from her dining table, breaking down large amounts of work into categories to avoid getting overwhelmed. Janet says that sewing gives her a creative outlet, but that her customers keep her going as she wants them to be pleased with, and actively use her products. She says, “I have seen my purses everywhere being worn by girls and ladies.

This makes me happy knowing that somebody appreciates the work I do.” Her purses have traveled all over the world, with happy customers sending bags as far afield as Japan, Korea, Australia, England, and even China!

Sassy Paisley Designs | Hattiesburg Janet Lashley ( 601-434-6919 View full profile at: mscraftshow.com /sassy Photos by Miranda Jordan

AUGUST 2014 | Magnolia State of Mind

21

For The Animals

By Miranda Jordan

I

I may not have gone where I intended to go, but I think I have ended up where I needed to be. – Douglas Adams

f you’re driving along Highway 12 in Caledonia, Mississippi about 16 miles outside of Columbus, you might want to slow down. There’s a place where the asphalt winds along a tree lined field. Just around the bend an unremarkable stretch of road gives way to a property enclosed by a tall perimeter fence. Beyond the security gate are perfectly manicured grounds. Nothing looks out of place. But put your window down, and quiet your radio - and if you are really lucky you might hear the sound of a lion’s roar.

teacher Kay moved back to Oklahoma. Cheryl had lived in many places in the south, but as fate would have it, she returned to Oklahoma that same year and the pair rekindled their childhood friendship.

Growing up in Oklahoma, Kay McElroy and her life-long friend, Cheryl Craig spent many summers together. Cheryl recalls, “We have known each other all our lives. When I was a child I went to my grandmother’s every summer, Kay lived across the street. She has brothers my brother’s age, we were a group of friends. We played kick the can and camped out on the porch in summertime.” remembers Cheryl.

Where It All Began

But summers end, and seasons change. People grow and move away. “I just wanted to get out of the tiny town I grew up in. I got a teaching degree and moved to California.” said Kay. The friends lost contact for many years.

After 12 years working as a counselor and

Kay then ended up moving to Mississippi. “I brought one gelding with me here. I thought my career was in horses. I used to raise them and show them.” said Kay. Not once did she imagine that building a sanctuary was about to become her life’s calling.

It all started back in 1987. Kay was reading the local Sunday paper. “I love the classified adds when I get a newspaper all I read are the classifieds.” Kay said. She recalls the headline, “Sixmonth-old cougar cub for sale. $1,000.00.”

Out of curiosity Kay went to see the cougar.

“I will never forget it as long as I live.” she said.

What she found that day both broke her heart, and shaped her future. A little cougar cub, housed in a small dog pen, and almost starved to death. His paws were terribly infected from a botched declaw job. He was in pain and despondent.

Kay had just moved to Mississippi. Without a job or any money she could not afford to buy the cougar. “I told the guy that I had a 1947 Farmall D tractor that I would trade for the cub.” recounts Kay. But the owner refused, he wanted the money.

Kay let him know where to find her, should he change his mind.

Two weeks later he arrived with the cougar chained in the front seat of his truck ready to

make the trade.

Kay suddenly had a cougar, named Zack. “After days of phone calls trying to find Zack a home at a zoo, I came to the realization that I either had to build an enclosure for him or have him euthanized.” said Kay. Zack was the first resident of what was to become Cedarhill Animal Sanctuary.

Build It: They Will Come After Zack, others followed.

One-by-one, animals needing sanctuary started coming to Cedarhill. Friday, a 2 month old lioness had been dropped off at a veterinarian’s office in Kansas. She was in a coma and only weighed 7 pounds. Her little face covered with bruises and abrasions.

K.C., a cougar, was abandoned by drug dealers in 10-degree weather with no food, water or shelter. His face and front legs had been shredded with a weed eater and he had been left for dead.

Caeser, another cougar, was locked in a closet for several months when his owner was jailed.

Sparkle a 31 year old Chinese spotted leopard came to Cedarhill after her owner died. Along with Sparkle came Big Al who had been living in an underground cement bunker for three years.

“Once we started rescuing we said ‘okay we’ve got to find a better place for these animals’. But once we started looking around we realize that there isn’t a better place. There is no place.” said Cheryl.

“We uncovered cats in deplorable conditions.” said Kay, “In the period of 1987 to 1992 we took in five big cats.”, Kay pauses, obviously emotional, “I start thinking about stories and it’s hard to talk about.” She pauses again, “One was a lion in Memphis. We were on our way to pick up a cougar from the airport and we saw a sign that said, ‘Hear the lion roar .25 cents.’, So we stopped on the way back. He was living in a chicken pen.” Kay pauses again, unable to finish. Cheryl takes over the story for her. “He used to live in the back of an ice truck with welded wire on the front” “I sat in the car with the engine running because I never knew what Kay was going to do under those circumstances.” she continued.

[This place was] “selling velvet Elvis and rebel towels, it was just a kind of roadside junk sale.”

There was nothing Kay and Cheryl could do for that cat that day, but a few months later the owners called Cedarhill and asked if they would take the lion.

Of course, they did.

Kay recalls a story of a lion they rescued from Michigan. He had been kept in a cage in an abandoned dairy barn where there was no light. He had never seen sunshine until he came to Cedarhill. Kay recounted, “We’ve got two tigers we took in who had lived in a garage all their lives. The first time they touched the ground was here. They were amazed, they just ran and ran. They’d never ran before. Those are the things I care about. I jabbered about [creating] this for years and everybody said ‘She’s at it again’. But I was not going to stop until I got it built.” said Kay. “I don’t know now I built all this. I just started, then I just went until I stopped.” she said.

As time passed more animals came, each with

a story worse than the last. In 1993, Kay began to understand the magnitude of the horrible plight of exotic animals in the United States.

There are no federal laws and at the time, only seven states had any laws controlling the breeding, selling and trading of exotic animals.

“We kept taking cats and I got worried about what would happen to ours as there were no laws. So I spent four years getting a law passed in Mississippi”, said Kay. Kay’s hard work paid off.

Legislation passed outlawing canned hunts, exotic auctions and requires the registration of all exotics with the State Game and Wildlife Department. Cedarhill got its USDA license, and became accredited by The Association of Sanctuaries and The American Sanctuary Association. “I did for my own sanctuary but it helped a lot of animals in the meantime.” said Kay. A true sanctuary in every sense of the word, over 300 animals reside at this peaceful, private, and secluded location. These animals were rescued from horrible situations. Cedarhill promises them a place to heal both physically and emotionally from the horrors they have endured by letting them live out the remainder of their lives in peaceful existence. Cedarhill is not open to the public which can make fundraising a challenge. People can be reluctant to donate if they do not understand what a sanctuary is and they want to be able to see the animals.

this is not her job, it’s her passion. She loves this place, and it shows. Michelle knows these 25 acres intimately. She knows the name of every single animal at the sanctuary, and can tell you the story of each one of them. She will tell you about Danny, the horse who was 400lbs underweight when he came to Cedarhill. Having been purchased by teenagers at auction they subsequently tied him to a dead tree without food or water and beat him with a barbed wire wrapped 2-by-4 to make him ride.

She will convey the story of Rodney, a Border Collie, Husky mix who has had one eye removed because of degenerative eye disease. Or cross-eyed Rosie who will go to great lengths to hide when it’s nail trimming time. Michelle can tell you anything you want to know about Valentino, the lion. Right down to his moods and how he likes to play with a giant cardboard box, as cats do. This place is special and while all the staff will tell you it is always about the animals, it is indeed also because of these dedicated people that Cedarhill exists.

Everybody Knows Your Name Currently Cedarhill is home to lions, tigers, cougars, bobcats, pot belly pigs, horses, dogs, cats, birds and rabbits.

With about 187 regular domestic cats, the sanctuary houses between 280 – 320 animals on any given day. They are the only FeLV (Feline leukemia virus) sanctuary in the state.

They currently have 10 staff members.

Michelle Potter is the Head Caretaker, she has worked at Cedarhill for many years. Michelle is responsible for the day to day running of the sanctuary. She feeds the exotic cats and ensures the well being of every animal. Spend any time with Michelle and you soon realize

“We have a great staff, all these people when they go home for the day they worry about these animals.” remarks Cheryl. “I tell people this is a great job to have, if you don’t mind 110 degrees in the summer and 20 degrees in the winter. If you can tolerate that, you will love the job. The people we have here do more than just tolerate it, they are devoted to their job and it’s not Kay and I they are devoted to, and that’s the way it should be. It is the animals they are devoted to.” she explains.

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23

All in a Day’s Work

a part of their educational process with their veterinary school. There are 22 vet schools in the country, but none have access to a sanctuary like Cedalhill. “Having a formal working relationship with them, would ensure our longevity also” said Cheryl, “Because I worry what will happen if I die and there’s 300 animals out here. I worry about it every day I wake up. I would die a much happier person if I knew we had some type of formal agreement with them, I would know the sanctuary is going to go on that way.” she said.

The days begin very early at Cedarhill, in fact it starts the day before when food for the following day is taken out of the freezer. Feeding time depends on the seasons. In the summer they feed the exotics very early in the morning, around 4:30am, before it gets too hot for them to want to eat. The big cats go into a lock up at meal time. While they feed in there the staff can safely enter the enclosure to replenish water, clean the grounds, etc.

After the feeding and cleaning the preparation for the next day starts again. Different staff have specific roles at the sanctuary. There are people who only take care of the dogs, or the cats, the exotics, or grounds keeping and maintenance, etc. The animals know their caretakers, they are used to their routines, and they know when it’s time for lunch!

Funding The Sanctuary All of this takes money, of course. Monthly expenses at Cedarhill are around $50,000 dollars.

For the first 6 years Cheryl and Kay supported themselves and the sanctuary entirely. Cheryl is a respiratory therapist so they started a medical business. They put everything they had into Cedarhill. “We worked for years, and never took a salary. You know we aren’t as young as we used to be, and we can’t function as we used to, so neither one of us do very much outside anymore.” said Cheryl The sanctuary now survives on small donations by ordinary people. “We don’t have any corporate sponsorship, we don’t have any government sponsorship of any type. Just people who love animals just like we do. You just never know from month to month. We never have a surplus in the bank, but we are not about putting money in the bank, we are not about making money – we are about doing what we do – it’s about the animals.” said Cheryl.

Cheryl still finds it hard to ask for donations rather than going out to work to earn the money herself. These two hard working women had done everything themselves for so long, it wasn’t until just over 2 years ago that they conceded they needed to hire clerical help. They are very careful with the funds they do have, noting that the first priority is always the animals.

Cheryl continues “Kay and I are very cogno24

scente of the fact that this is not our money. It was not given to us to live on, it wasn’t really given to our employees it was given to these animals to ensure care is provided for them and we just both have a great deal of respect for that. If there’s money for Kay to pay herself, she might. Last year it was only about 3 times she received a pay check.” she said.

Cedarhill’s donors know where their money goes. Kay responds to a $10 donation, just like she responds to a $1000 or a $10,000 donation.

“She is going to say thank you. She is going to send you a newsletter that isn’t going to make you cry, [the newsletter] is going to make you feel good after you read it.” said Cheryl

Cedarhill is a tranquil, calming and soulful place. The animals who live there are truly at peace. The sanctuary came into existence out of necessity. The reason why it must go on can be summed up in the three simple words Kay uses to sign off every newsletter she writes. These three words encompass the sole purpose of Cedarhill succinctly and concisely. Cedarhill is, and always has been : For the animals. 

My Heart Will Go On There is a tremendous feeling of peace and tranquility at Cedarhill.

But each day Kay and Cheryl must cope with the worry of how to keep Cedarhill operating after they have gone.

“Believe me we have always thought about it. We have always wanted to have some means of securing it which is a difficult thing to think about.” said Cheryl.

Cheryl is 69 this year. Kay is 70 and has been on dialysis for 10 years. It’s only natural that they worry about the future of Cedarhill as they face their own mortality. Cheryl worries that after Kay is gone Cedarhill’s newsletter may not be as effective. She worries that their donors may not feel as connected without Kay penning the stories.

Cheryl explains that they would love to be able to develop a formal working relationship with Mississippi State University by becoming

Magnolia State of Mind | AUGUST 2014

Cedarhill Animal Sanctuary | Caledonia

(662-356-6636

8www.cedarhillanimalsanctuary.org

MyMississippi 2014 Photo Competition and Exhibition

T

he Mississippi Craft show conducted a state wide Photo Competition. We wanted to prove that Mississippi is not only beautiful, but residing within her borders are countless creative people who show her beauty through the images they capture.

In this competition professional and amateur photographers had an equal chance of winning. Selections were based not as much on technical or artistic merit as how the image conjured the feeling of “Mississippi” for the judges. With almost 200 wonderful entries selecting the winners was no easy task. It is clear that Mississippi boasts many talented photographers.

1st

Pictured here are a few of the entries. Please visit www.MyMississippi.us to view a gallery of all entries and vote for your favorites. You can also find the link to the video slideshow from that page.

Be sure to visit the My Mississippi Exhibition at the Mississippi Craft Show, August 23-24, at the Trade Mart in Jackson where some of the photos entered in the competition will be on display.

And the winners are...

1st Place: “Shade Tree Mechanic” by Sandra Stewart 2nd Place: “Dusk At The Rez” by Judy Rushing

Sponsored by

3rd Place: “Mississippi Sunset” by Jeannie Meyer devillecameraandvideo.com

Limenitis

Arthemis

by Maggie

2nd

Sailboat Due South by Stephen Marshall

Burnham

3rd

ckingbird by

Mo Listen to the

llingburg

sty E rm by Kri a F e h T n O

Gator by Kevin Stra ha

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Jan Dykes

Paintings, Piggy Banks, &

By Miranda Jordan

I

t was June 2012 at Luxapalila Creek Park in Columbus Mississippi. The sun was shining.

Only a few wispy white clouds dotted an otherwise clear sky. The Tombigbee river meandered slowly alongside the grassy banks lined with oak, maple and elm trees in various shades of green.

A group of friends were gathering to spend the day on the river. One of the first to arrive noticed a very thin, tired looking dog close by. It was obvious the animal was in very poor condition.

Wanting to help, they attempted to approach the dog but she started to growl. This naturally made them nervous and so they abandoned their attempts.

Pit Bulls

Aimee managed to coax the dog out of the woods. She picked her up and brought her out to the road where she sat on the curb waiting for her husband to arrive. “When Kenneth pulled up hauling the pontoon boat and saw me sitting there, he thought I’d run over somebody’s dog”.

It was decided they would take the dog to their friend, Heather McIntyre in Caledonia for a few days until they could figure out what to do. They had no plans to become a rescue, all they knew that day was that a starving mama dog needed help, and they could not just walk away.

The following week Kenneth and Aimee collected “Mama Girl”, as they named her, from her foster home. Kenneth recalls, “ We picked her up Just then a white Chevy Avalanche hauling a jet and took her home and nursed her back to health. ski drove up. Aimee Shaw had arrived that day She was nothing but skin and bones and we got her healthy and found to join her friends in some fun on “When people call and tell us they her a home.” That’s the couple the water. Aimee have a behavioral problem with when first started thinking quickly assessed the situation. “The a Pit Bull we tell them how to try about rescuing more “We started dog was growling and resolve the issues, see how dogs. thinking maybe that’s and to someone unfamiliar with Pit this works before you just give up what we need to for the Pit Bulls.

Bulls, she looked on the dog because the dog would do Since we had raised scary”. Aimee could them for so many tell however, the never give up on you.” years, they gave so dog’s growl was a much joy to us, we defense, not aggression. As she looked around she discovered the need to give back to them now.” grim reality. This mama dog was standing guard over the lifeless body of her deceased pup. “She Heather McIntyre and Cindy Lynch who were was only trying to protect her baby, and she was involved in Mama Girl’s rescue that day, evenhungry”, Aimee continued. tually became Board Members of Shaw Pit Bull Rescue, Inc., (Shaw PBR). Born from a need Dressed in t-shirt and shorts, and wearing river greater than this small group even imagined, and shoes Aimee had not packed or planned for a dog because these people refused to simply look the rescue mission. But there was a dog who needed other way. Although the plan was to rescue just help so Aimee had to improvise. “I had a Subway one or two dogs at a time, what hapsandwich that I hadn’t eaten so I grabbed it and a pened next could only be described as bowl, so that we could at least give her some food baptism by fire. and water.”, she said. Aimee then covered up the deceased pup and offered the mama dog the Their first official ‘call’ was to help sandwich. “She had retreated into the woods, but six dogs from a single location. Soon I followed her. She ate the sandwich and I let her after they were asked to assist with a lick the sauce off of my fingers; that’s how sweet hoarding case in Montpelier, where 32 animals were seized. Five horses, 23 pit bull and trusting she was”. said Aimee. dogs, and 4 other dogs were living in horrible 26

Magnolia State of Mind | AUGUST 2014

conditions. Most of the dogs were severely flea infested and very thin; some were extremely emaciated. Of the 23 pit bull dogs, 18 were taken in by Shaw PBR, including two pregnant females who birthed a total of 13 babies. From this one case alone Shaw took on the immediate care of 31 dogs. Something they were not prepared for.

Pit Bulls are the number one abused breed in America, in part due to lack of education, responsibility, time, and money. Because of the abuse and neglect they have been subjected to, many have become homeless or abandoned. “For every pit bull that is adopted, there are 20 more waiting to go in their empty kennel. We’ve placed 114 dogs and have 36 adopt-a-bulls right now at our facility, all looking for their new, forever homes.”

Said Aimee. “Before I met my husband, I had never seen nor heard of a pit bull. Maybe that was a blessing: I hadn’t heard the hype about them, so my heart was completely open.” She continued.

Although the American Pit Bull Terrier (APBT) was once used as a national symbol of courage and pride, today the breed is largely misunderstood. Throughout history the APBT has been bred for its performance as a working dog; a wellbred pit bull has a steady temperament and is not inherently aggressive towards humans. They are extremely athletic, highly affectionate, and allaround happy-go-lucky dogs.

than take the dog away. Their experience has shown that most issues can be resolved with patience, understanding and some effort, and Shaw PBR are willing to help Pit owners find the information they need.

“When people call and tell us they have a behavioral problem with a Pit Bull we tell them how to try and resolve the issues, see how

Often vilified in the media, pit bulls are typically depicted as vicious, and considered guilty with no chance of proving their innocence.

Having owned pit bulls for over twenty-four years, Aimee and Kenneth will tell you that these dogs are loyal, intelligent, and goodnatured, and that it is irresponsible owners who give this breed a bad name.

Inspite of this, Pit Bull breeds have become famous for their roles as soldiers, police dogs, search and rescue dogs, actors, television personalities, seeing eye dogs, and celebrity pets. In WWI, a pit bull named Stubby was awarded medals for service. He became the most decorated canine soldier in history, earning the rank of sergeant; and given a life-long membership to the American Legion, Red Cross, and YMCA. Contemporary significant pit bulls include: Popsicle, a five-month-old puppy who had been found nearly dead in a freezer, and grew to become one of the nation’s most important police dogs; Titan, who rescued his owner’s wife, who would have otherwise died from an aneurysm; Lilly, who lost a leg after being struck by a train while pulling her unconscious owner from the train tracks; Norton, who was inducted into the Purina Animal Hall of Fame after rescuing his owner from a severe reaction to a spider bite; and D-Boy, who took three bullets saving his family from an intruder with a gun.

“It’s still hard to find the right homes for them, and we are trying to educate the public on Pit Bulls - they are not right for everyone.”, remarks Kenneth.

Shaw PBR would much rather work with a Pit Bull owner to help them solve issues rather

this works before you just give up on the dog because the dog would never give up on you.”

Said Kenneth. “It’s about educating the public mostly about the right thing to do with the dogs, any animal really. Just like children don’t know anything until someone teaches them, it’s the same with animals, they learn what they are taught.” he said.

Shaw Pit Bull Rescue, Inc is an official 501(c)3 non-profit organization. The “PitCrew” are strictly non-paid volunteers, and rely solely on donations, fundraising and personal finances to support their cause. Shaw PBR also sell a line of products, including hand painted piggy banks and original acrylic paintings they create and sell.

Shaw PBR received the 2014 Governor’s Initiative for Volunteer Excellence Award for Outstanding Achievement by a Grassroots Volunteer. They were selected from among 75 organizations that were nominated from around the state.

This small, but dedicated group have done a lot, in a short while, with every little. But the issues they face continue without abatement. Shaw

PBR receives several phone calls a day regarding re-homing or abandoned pit bulls. They currently have 36 dogs awaiting forever homes; and are helping others find homes through their website and Facebook page. They also have 4 of their own dogs as well as 1 cat and a pot bellied pig.

For more information on adopting, volunteering, and donating contact SHAW PBR. You can also visit them at the Mississippi Craft Show in August.  Shaw Pit Bull Rescue | Columbus Aimee Shaw (662-386-1012 8www.shawpitbullrescue.com View full profile at: mscraftshow.com/shawrescue

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A

TE AM UTISM

By Lynnsey Douglas

TEAAM Autism is a non-profit organization, is dedicated to improving the lives of Mississippians with an autism spectrum disorder by cultivating and enhancing family and community supports.

A

service potential for Mississippians with autism as well as those who serve them and those who support them. The organization works to move Mississippi forward in providing appropriate and accessible services for individuals with autism spectrum disorders.

Thankfully, in 1997, Dr. Mark Yeager was given the charge of bringing together members of the autism community to develop a plan to meet the rising need for autism services in the state. That group developed into TEAAM (Together Enhancing Autism Awareness in Mississippi). TEAAM is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that is focused on advancing the

Dedicated to providing training to parents, teachers, psychologists, physicians, speech-language therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapists and all school and other professional personnel, TEAAM is now effecting the direction of services in a multi-faceted manner.

TEAAM is also focused on being “resource central” for persons in need of information about existing services and resources available. TEAAM provides access to Professionals and Families, which is made up of leaders in the State of Mississippi in the autism community. Another TEAAM

nyone who has a child or family member diagnosed with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is immediately thrown into an unfamiliar and confusing world. There is so much to learn with any medical diagnosis, but perhaps even more so with an ASD diagnosis. Parents often feel like no one will understand what their child is going through or see past the disability to the wonderful gifted child beneath.

benefit is access to an interactive information web based network. This is a network that connects many people dealing with the same problems. Sharing ideas for intervention and program design has become a main service of this network.

“Service,” just scrapes the surface of what this group is about. Mississippi Craft Show organizers were flooded with nominations for TEAAM to be one of the show’s 2014 beneficiaries. The many heartfelt messages may help you to begin to understand how

“Many of the children that attend Center Ridge Outpost have few places they can go that offers complete acceptance and understanding in a safe, fun, and loving environment. “

far reaching the effects of one group can be. One theme mentioned over and over again was their inclusive summer camps.

The Center Ridge Outpost is TEAAM’s Adventure Base Camp. The goal of all programs conducted at Center Ridge is to provide outdoor adventures for all ages in an inclusive environment.

Kamp Kaleidoscope is the camp program for campers ages 7-17. The fact is that typical summer camps can’t provide for children or teens with ASD. The basis for the Kamp Kaleidoscope is imbued in the concept of socialization with neurotypical peers. That means that children with ASD get to interact with children their own age who don’t have ASD to help develop social skills. The testimonials tell the story.

“Dr. Yeager has made [my daughter] feel how special she is and he has also provided many opportunities for her to be with other children and teens with autism.

There is a freedom for her to be herself at these events.”

“The summer camps that they create for Autistic Children are amazing. My son and I have attended support groups that have allowed him to meet new children that he can relate to.”

“Many of the children that attend Center Ridge Outpost have few places they can go that offers complete acceptance and understanding in a safe, fun, and loving environment. “ “My son has Autism and this organization has provided a camp he attends each summer. It is a place where he can be himself. He looks forward to it each year.”

TEAAM is fulfilling a huge need with the work that they are doing. Not only are they helping the children learn and adapt to their environment, they are helping the parents and caregivers as well. Caring for a child with autism can be extremely exhausting (not that the parents would complain).

The support from TEAAM gives parents and caregivers the feeling that they’re not alone. They have someone in their corner to help their child and give them a break.

That way, the parents can feel renewed and more capable of giving their child the best life possible.

As Dr. Yeager puts it, “every kid ought to get to be a kid.” That’s what TEAAM’s mission is all

about. They’re “putting smiles on faces that don’t normally smile.”

C

amp Walapei are summer camp sessions for adults, 18 and older, and are designed to be fun in an age appropriate environment. Camp Walapei offers a similar experience that Kamp Kaleidoscope provides but with less rigorous demands and with adults in mind. Participants of Camp Walapei are often “graduates” of Kamp Kaleidoscope and enjoy participating with an older group of peers.

The Center Ridge Outpost is TEAAM’s Adventure Base Camp. The goal of all programs conducted at the Center Ridge Outpost is to provide outdoor adventures for people of all ages in an inclusive environment regardless of exceptionality.

TEAAM’s intent is two-fold, 1) to inform people about autism and the services available to them and 2) to increase the services accessible for these individuals and their families.

For more information about TEAAM visit www.TEAAM.org. You can also visit them at the Mississippi Craft Show in August.  TEAAM Autism | Taylorsville (601-782-9005 8www.teaam.org 8www.autismcamps.org

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Angelic Artwork

E

By Monique Troth ven as a child in Chamblee, Georgia, Angelic Martin, better known as “Angel,” was always making things from whatever materials came to hand, even digging up clay from the creek bank (although she admits those creations always fell apart since she didn’t have a kiln back then). Throughout her life, she says “working with my hands and clay has been one of the things I’ve always enjoyed the most.”

Twenty-one years ago, the Martin family moved to Starkville, Mississippi. Since then, Angel has exercised her creativity in many ways: catering, cake decorating, sewing costumes for school plays, creating most of the decorations for special school events, and being an active band parent – right up until her daughter’s graduation from college. She also teaches after-school programs in art and pottery.

Angel does wheel, slab, and hand-sculpted work, and says she loves finding out what different types of clay will do in different situations. She also works with watercolors and acrylics and loves pushing the boundaries of the materials here as well. As an art30

Photos by

ist, she feels that the more you do, the more you learn and the more you want to push the boundaries of what your materials and tools can do. While she has created lots of pieces that she likes, Angel has yet to create that one favorite piece that she can’t let go.

Her creations have gone to people all over the country, including New York, Ohio, North Carolina, and California. She jokes that she expects one of these days to be on “Antique Roadshow” and learn that a piece is now worth $100,000, at which point she will finally feel that she’s “made it!”

When asked for advice to give aspiring artists, Angel suggests: “Just keep trying to create. Look at things around you, and see if you can re-create them. Just constantly do it. Don’t give up. It’s not always going to be a perfect piece the first time; so if you keep working at it, you’re going to get better at it.

Magnolia State of Mind | AUGUST 2014

Miranda

Jordan

And if that’s not the particular medium for you, check another one. There are so many different art mediums out there, you just have to find the one that speaks to you, that helps you express what you’re wanting to express.” 

Angelic Artwork | Starkville Angelic Martin (662-323-0080 View full profile at: mscraftshow.com/angelic

Sweet By and By

L

ife-long resident of Mississippi, Ramona Bridges spent 26 years working as a nurse. About 6 years ago, with no formal training, she embarked upon writing her first novel. Even today, Ramona says the hardest thing about writing is finding the time and inspiration to do so.

In all of Ramona’s books she lets her Christian faith shine through and uses her writings to inspire others to trust in God and have hope when life’s troubles seem insurmountable. She expertly paints a vivid picture of Mississippi with her words and writes about characters that any Mississippian will feel they knew personally. In a state where we are so tied to our landscapes and history, Ramona invites readers in to get to know our culture and trace our roots. 

Photo by Miranda Jordan

Photo su

pplied b

y artist

In what turned out to be an award winning debut novel, she weaves an unforgettable story about unfailing love, deceit, and forgiveness set against a background of strife and hardship in late-1800’s Mississippi.

With a cast of characters that will capture your imagination and your heart, Sweet By and By celebrates God’s promise of faith and hope amidst life’s inevitable disappointments. The recipient of the 2012 MLA Award for Fiction, Sweet By and By is Book 1 in her ‘story about love’ trilogy.

Standing On the Promises is Book 2 in the series, followed by An Unclouded Day. Her first children’s book, entitled What Will We Do Today?, is scheduled for release in the fall of 2014.

By Lynnsey Douglas

Author Ramona Bridges | Seminary Ramona Bridges (601-441-1508 View full profile at: mscraftshow.com/sweetbyandby

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Divergence from

Convention

W

By PQ Hudson

hen Helene Fielder was in the fourth grade she witnessed a young girl seated next to her drawing a horse. She was immediately fascinated. Captivated, she knew at that moment that she wanted to be an artist and she has never wavered from her passion. Today she has a 2 story studio in the middle of nowhere (Booneville, Mississippi) where she still spends her days creating magic. What began with drawing has now grown into decorative teapots, visually stunning sake sets and a brilliant collection of pottery & ceramics.

“Teapots, whether functional or purely as an expression of art, fascinate me.” Showing her sense of humor, she continued, “They are “steeped” in history. While comprised of a common set of elements: a spout, handle and a lid, there is a seemingly endless number of forms they can take within these parameters. Teapots are reminiscent of people, ever changing and full with character and movement. I never tire of making them.”

Although Helene did study art formally she makes it a habit of learning new things constantly about her trade through books and experimentation with other artists. Recently she spent time with Don & Louise Coulson, of Kingfisher Designs.

They spent several hours showing Helene how to use a Micro Welder, a tool to solder that will not overheat a carved stone.

d by

pplie

s su Photo

artist

Pottery by Helene| Booneville Helene Fielder (662-728-0988 8www.potterybyhelene.com

View full profile at: mscraftshow.com/helene

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Magnolia State of Mind | AUGUST 2014

As an artist, she does sometimes get into a rut where she feels all of her work starts to look the same. Her answer to that is a simple canoe ride down the rider or a walk in the woods with her sketchbook. That’s all it takes to get new ideas flowing again.

“Once I did three such sketches in 20 minutes. I looked at them, loved them but felt they were too complicated to attempt in clay. Two years later I was looking through that same sketchbook and I saw those sketches anew. I made all three and called them my fantasy series.”

S

he enjoys making functional pottery. The simple idea that a mug she makes could possibly become someone’s favorite electrifies her.

“When I think my mug could be the one they bring to the front porch to contemplate their day, and perhaps even their own creations, I’m like a pig rolling in heaven’s mud.” Lately she has taken to lapidary with a fervor that one might label “addiction.” From beads and cabochons to all out carving, it’s become a strong passion. She is always curious and eager to learn. Always experimenting and trying new ways of doing things. Helene’s other great love is her dog, Mojo.

say they are completely failing at retirement.

Louise recalls falling in love with creating as early as age 5. “I made a little red scarf on a pair of mismatched knitting needles and I was hooked.” Waking up is all she needs to be inspired to create. “I am always ready to create. I’m not always ready to do the dishes and clean the house.” She is currently obsessed with pewter cream and sugar sets, trays and salt/pepper shakers. She is looking forward to the completion of their new studio space so she can dive in and focus on those.

Photos supplied by artist

L

ocated in the quaint town of Aberdeen, Mississippi is a dynamic duo unlike any other. Don & Louise Coulson are Texas natives who moved 43 times in 45 years travelling to jobs all over the country. They currently reside in a small home on the Tombigbee River that they built themselves after living on a boat for 12 years in Maine. This adventurous pair can be described in many ways: globe trekkers, metal smiths, artisans, visionaries…but never boring! Louise, a retired teacher, and Don, a retired engineer combined their love of metal and art to form their “retirement business” aka Kingfisher

Don loves to learn and experiment with their art. He is always seeking to improve

Hammers, F ire & Imagination

By PQ Hudson

Designs.

These self taught artisans use hammers, fire and imagination to birth stunning enamelled vases, copper bowls as well as create beautiful one of a kind flatware, hollowware and jewelry. What don’t they do? Retire well! They are currently moving into a new studio space while facing constant deadlines. It is safe to

the work. That’s the engineer in him, obviously. “We both love what we do in the arts however our means to the end are somewhat like yin and yang. I’ve always said that Louise has her feet fully planted in mid air and mine are firmly on the ground.”

Louise will tell you that she is the right brain who dreams up what they need to do while Don is the left brain that figures out how to make it work. Nearly every piece they do is collaboration. They describe their style of art as “total Wabi Sabi.”

You can find Kingfisher Designs in 13 galleries and 20 shows throughout the Southeast. Stop by to score a one of kind

enamelled vase; stay for an endless amount of intriguing life stories from these two “retired” nomads.  Kingfisher Designs | Aberdeen Don & Louise Coulson (662-436-7153 8www.kingfisherdesignsmetals.com View full profile at: mscraftshow.com/kingfisher

AUGUST 2014 | Magnolia State of Mind

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Photos by Miranda Jordan

A

rt has been a lifelong love for Betty Ramsey. About

precious metal clay creations from fellow Craftsman Guild members.

5 years ago, Betty was inspired by the art around her

Her as-of-yet-unattainable art is Russian filigree. Filigree is a delicate

prompting her to create her jewelry business, Bangles

kind of jewelry metalwork often suggestive of lace. The word filigree

and Baubles. As a young girl, Betty enjoyed painting by

derives from Latin “filum” meaning thread and “granum” grain. Very

number. As she grew, so did her art. Betty has dabbled in sewing,

intricate and small, this technique requires patience and time. Betty is

gardening, faux finish, and cake decorating. She’s had a lot of hobbies,

working toward that goal. 

Bangles and Baubles

but her jewelry is more than a hobby, it has become a business. Betty’s

By Jess Delrie

jewelry consists mostly of wire wrapping. She does very little soldering or gluing, preferring that the wire hold itself together. Using 14 karate gold filled wire and sterling silver wire in all different gauges, each piece she creates is unique and beautiful.

In addition to the different types and gauges of wire, Betty uses gold and silver spacing beads, pearls, fossils, gemstones, old coins, and even vintage bar pins to create pendants, earrings, and bracelets.

The Ramsey kitchen table has been commandeered for her creat-

Photo by Sara Ga tlin

ing endeavors and is really only cleared for Christmas or the rare party. The remainder of the time you will find it covered in bits and pieces of art in various stages of completion. Betty says she finds the process of wire wrapping and creating jewelry to be quite relaxing, but she would love to have the ability to twitch her nose and things would just be done. While as bewitching as that sounds, she may not find creating as relaxing that way. Betty is a mostly self taught artist, though she is quick to add that she has had lessons on chain maille and

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Magnolia State of Mind | AUGUST 2014

Bangles and Baubles, LLC | Jackson Betty Ramsey (601-506-1982 View full profile at: mscraftshow.com/ramsey

F

rom installing high-end wall coverings to painting murals and all types of faux and decorative finishes on walls, ceilings, floors, furniture, and accessories, Rebecca Cupples does it all! Over the 30 years Rebecca’s company - Bekart Studios - has been in business, she has worked with many different designers and clients – some of whom have returned again and again as their children grow or as they move house.

problem for this busy artist. When she does need a break from her studio, you will most likely find her baking or gardening.

Along with continuing to paint for as long as she can, one of Rebecca’s goals is to be in a position to help those less fortunate. She believes art should be funded to help those who otherwise would not be able to participate or pursue their talent and dreams.

Photos Supplied by Artist

Rebecca has been interested in art all her life: “My high school major was art, but other than a decorative class given by Amy Howard, I am self-taught.” While she has used many different mediums, today

When asked for advice for aspiring artists, she said, “I admire any artist that pursues their creative talent. So many people just talk about it. If you want to do it, then do your research, buy your supplies - whatever they may be - and go for it!” 

Bekart Studio

By Monique Troth

Rebecca prefers working with acrylics. She also admits that, although she has done abstracts on commission, realism is her original style as she has a “hard time letting go of the details.”

Rebecca usually has several projects going at once, moving from one to the next over several days or weeks. Due to her love for painting, finding the motivation to keep working is never a

Bekart Studio | Jackson Rebecca Cupples (901-230-7911 8www.bekartstudio.com View full profile at: mscraftshow.com/bekartstudio

AUGUST 2014 | Magnolia State of Mind

35

Coverings for Baby

By Rachel Deer

B

orn in Tupelo, Mississippi, Robbie Barmer really didn’t know why she was ever given a sewing machine, except to keep her occupied making Barbie doll clothes. When she was about 10 or 12 she started riding Tennessee walking horses.

Her most memorable childhood experience is winning first place riding in horse shows. Needless to say, the sewing machine went into the closet, only ever taken out again to make cushions for outdoor furniture.

are so cute and cuddly,” she shares.

Photos

In 1973 Robbie reached a turning point in her life when she became employed by McRae’s, (now Belk), department store as a visual merchandiser. Working in the home and children’s areas, Robbie did everything: made props, dressed forms, dressing beds, and displayed china. After a rewarding thirty-three year career with McRae’s, Robbie retired.

by Mir

It was about seven years ago when her nephew was born that she created her first baby bib. When Robbie saw one of her new nephew’s bibs she thought, “I can do that, and maybe even better.” And so it began. After that came more baby items including more bibs, burp clothes, taggie blankets, pacifier holders, quilts, stuffed toys, “storybook” wooden hangers and adorable wooden toys. All of Robbie’s baby items are unique, 100% handmade, and collectible. What might be even more spectacular about her designs are that all her bibs and burps have handmade piping, something rarely done these days as it is very time consuming, but very much worth it. Of all her items, the stuffed toys are her favorite. “They

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Magnolia State of Mind | AUGUST 2014

anda

Jordan

“In one piece of fabric there are many possibilities,” she explains, “It’s really fun to see how fabrics go together.” It’s her love for unique and whimsical fabrics along with her husband and family that continue to inspire her. When Robbie isn’t creating art from fabric, she enjoys making praline candy, gardening and decorating and she says, to hopefully “Make at least one person happy every day.”

Coverings for Baby | Brandon Robbie Barmer ( 601-919-0593 View full profile at: mscraftshow.com/ coverings

Simply More mosaics

By Rachel Deer

A

Photos by Miranda Jordan

t the very heart of it all, Susan Farris is a school teacher. Currently, she is a 2nd/3rd grade school librarian, who also has a penchant for creating beautiful mosaics. Susan remembers quite well telling her fourth grade students to put away their scissors and simply tear pieces of construction paper. From this they were to create their art work on a piece of drawing paper, using only a glue stick! “Mrs. Farris, this isn’t fair,” she remembers the students fussing; “I want to use my pencil to draw.” What happened next was unexpected as her students suddenly became intensely quiet, and without understanding the plan, they were creating mosaics!

Perhaps it was fate that drew Susan to the creation of mosaics. She couldn’t really draw and somewhat envied friends who could, but what she could do, and was very good at, was arranging pieces to create images. Her first mosaics were crafted from tile stone leftover from a kitchen backsplash, once forgotten and then found again in her storage room. She remembers picking up that stone and visualizing a Christian fish.

“I visualized it and then I just created it,” she reminisces. Like many great artist, Susan was self-taught. Her pieces these days consist of stone and colored glass tile. Each piece of tile is hand cut using glass nippers and then glued on to stone. Edges are left uneven and then the mosaic is grouted, cleaned and sealed. “Broken pieces of glass tile come together to make one image.”, She explains.

Susan finds great joy in simple mosaics that make you feel like you must reach out and touch. Those that bring a smile to one’s face, or bring an early memory to mind. Susan prefers the smaller sized mosaics. “I want people to be able to carry one of my mosaics and place it on a stand, hang it, or simply lay it flat for their enjoyment,” Susan mused.

One of her favorite creations are the More Serenity Crosses in which she places hearts, flowers, or smaller crosses in the middle and then uses a different cut to form the larger cross.

Susan finds inspiration from everywhere, even from the people who visit her booth. She fondly remembers a young couple who, after making a purchase, commented on one of her More Serenity Crosses, suggesting a particular color combination.

That night she went home and created it.

Susan is always eager for new ideas and plans to continue creating her simple mosaics. “You can never stop learning,” she says. 

Photo su

View full profile at: mscraftshow.com/smmosaics

Simply More Mosaics | Brandon Susan Farris (601-672-8520

pplied b

y artist

AUGUST 2014 | Magnolia State of Mind

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Mississippi Craft Show 2014 Exhibitors Artisans from across the great state of Mississippi will once again come together for a weekend of shopping and fun. Hailing from 41 cities and towns, from Corinth to Ocean Springs; in 32 counties, from Sunflower to Lowndes & everywhere in between.

Indianola Pecan House| Indianola Gormet Pecans & Candies ( 662-887-5420 View full profile at: mscraftshow.com/pecanhouse

Mermaids Purse | Ocean Springs Natural Organics Bath & Body ( 228-596-0207 View full profile at: mscraftshow.com/mermaidspurse

Big Eyed Fish Designs | Houston Wooden Frames ( 662-542-8274 View full profile at: mscraftshow.com/bigeyedfish

Sweet Potato Sweets| Vardaman Sweet Potato Treats ( 662-682-9647 View full profile at: mscraftshow.com/sweetpotato

Painted Oyster | Madison Upcycled Women’s Apparel ( 601-259-4215 View full profile at: mscraftshow.com/hobbs Burlap Boutique | Brandon Burlap Homewares ( 601-497-7889 View full profile at: mscraftshow.com/rigsby Wyne Chyme| Brandon Recycled Bottle Wind Chimes ( 601-259-1857 View full profile at: mscraftshow.com/wyne

Thimblepress| Jackson Letterpress Stationery ( 601-323-0599 View full profile at: mscraftshow.com/thimblepress 38

Magnolia State of Mind | AUGUST 2014

Southern Scentsations | Jackson Candles ( 601-316-1328 View full profile at: mscraftshow.com/tcarroll

Baxter & Me| Corinth Re-claimed Wood Artwork ( 662-210-5400 View full profile at: mscraftshow.com/baxterandme

Doctor’s Dreams Publishing| Long Beach Books by Philip Levin ( 662-346-9416 View full profile at: mscraftshow.com/plevin

ScatterBrained Collars | Southaven Pet Accessories ( 901-334-7144 View full profile at: mscraftshow.com/scatterbrained Fused Glass by Roger & Carla| Florence Fused Glass ( 601-845-2645 View full profile at: mscraftshow.com/sturdivantglass

MS Farm Tables| Smithville Furniture ( 662-651-4100 View full profile at: mscraftshow.com/msfarmtables

Chas Evans Guitarist|Decatur Musician ( 601-383-2738 View full profile at: mscraftshow.com/chasevans

Artistry of Jupiter | Jackson Jewelry ( 601-717-0487 View full profile at: mscraftshow.com/jchapman

LoLady Fashion| Jackson Mixed Media & Vintage Jewelry ( 601-863-9058 View full profile at: mscraftshow.com/lolady

Wild Flower Heart | Kilmichael Upcycled Clothing ( 662-417-2651 View full profile at: mscraftshow.com/wildflower

The Chester Drawer | Shannon Appliqued Apparel & Home Wares ( 662-610-3705 View full profile at: mscraftshow.com/chester

My Heavenly Creations | Olive Branch Bath and Body Products ( 901-626-9478 View full profile at: mscraftshow.com/heavenly AUGUST 2014 | Magnolia State of Mind

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In the Market for Manners Etiquette for Craft Show Shoppers

By Miranda Jordan

“Life is short, but there is always time enough for courtesy.” ― --Ralph Waldo Emerson It’s time for your favorite annual craft show again. You’re excited. You and maybe some friends or family members get up early and drive to the show. You walk through the door and suddenly, everywhere you look, are handmade creations to delight you.

The show doesn’t just happen overnight, however. Aside from all the work on the part of the promoter, setting up for a craft show is often a lot of work for exhibitors.

Long before they even arrive at the show they have already put in countless hours of work. It stats with sourcing raw materials, moving through the creative process, developing their items, and then on to administrative tasks. Products have to be packed, unpacked and carefully presented.

Countless hours are spent packing and unpacking vehicles, hauling heavy tables and props. Then they must drive, often many miles before they can even set up their booth. Booth set up can take a few more hours, depending on their items. All of that, and a whole lot more has to happen before the booths you see when you arrive create that shopping delight you have been waiting for.

There are easier ways to earn a living, but for an artists, perhaps none that deliver quite the satisfaction of seeing people excited about the items they have created.

At the same time, thoughtless behavior by some customers and attendees at such events can be a very unpleasant experience for exhibitors.

So the next time you’re heading to a craft show, please keep these suggestions for 40

Magnolia State of Mind | AUGUST 2014

courtesy in mind.

Be Respectful of the Merchandise A lot of time, personal creativity, and effort went into everything you see. An exhibitor’s booth is their temporary store and it took great effort to present it to you. Generally it’s expected you’ll want to handle things, but please do so carefully.

Please do not sit your purse on top of the products or place your drinks and food items on top of exhibitor’s tablecloths, display pieces and merchandise. Items may be one-of-a-kind pieces which cannot simply be replaced if damaged. You should certainly interact with artists and their products but remember to handle with care.

Respect the Artist - No Photos Unless you are approved media taking event photos, you should never take photos of items in a seller’s booth without permission. It is disrespectful and invasive and it may also look like you simply intend to have someone copy the work for you.

Depending on the seller, you may even be asked to leave the booth. Depending on the show, you may be asked to leave the building. If you see something you just know Aunt Jane would love, ask the seller if you can snap a photo for your Aunt, but don’t do it to every item and don’t be offended if you’re not granted permission.

It’s their work and they do have the right to refuse just as the show promoter has the right to restrict photography during the show to protect their exhibitors.

Photo

by M

irand

a Jord

an

Don’t Delve for Details Artists love to discuss what they make.

However, don’t be offended if they don’t want to divulge their “trade secrets”.

Many have spent a good deal of time and money perfecting what they do. Asking general questions such as “What is this made from? is fine. But asking direct questions about where the seller gets their supplies, exactly how they make every item, etc, should be avoided “I Could Make That Myself!”

We all have different tastes and styles. But if you don’t like something, simply move on to the next booth. You’ll find that artists generally encourage creativity in other people. Often times artists will even lend you some advice in that regard. But don’t say “I could do that myself” in front of artists. It’s just plain rude.

Don’t Discourage Others One of the most disappointing things for

Photo by Miranda

a Jordan

a seller at a craft show is when someone really loves their items, but then their friend says - “You’re not going to waste your money on that are you?”

Discouraging other people is not fair.

They may really want the item, but they succumb to the peer pressure you just delivered. It’s quite likely that if they don’t purchase the item they will later regret it. If it’s a one of a kind, they may never get the chance again.

Just because you don’t like something, doesn’t mean it’s not perfect for someone else.

It’s NOT a Flea Market.

A craft show is not one of those places where you’re supposed to try to talk the seller down to a better price. This is not a flea market or a boot sale.

You can guarantee that any handmade artist has spent a lot of time and thought on pricing their work appropriately. Prices reflect a careful accounting of materials costs and labor hours, as well as the cost of renting space at the show, travel, accommodation, meals and so on. Not only do they need to cover supplies, but they deserve to get paid for their time and labor. While a seller may offer a discount if you are buying multiple items, or even have ‘show specials’, expecting to haggle is inappropriate at most professional craft shows.

Road Block Visibility and access are two critical factors in how well a vendor may do at a craft show. An artisan may only have a short moment to be noticed by a passerby, so please use good judgment and

manners when talking with friends and family and don’t block booths when you have no intention of buying anything from them, nor any interest in their merchandise. Most shows provide an area to sit and socialize so if you run into an old friend and want to chat, why not move to that area, grab a drink and chat there for a while before continuing your shopping?

Keep Control of your Children.

A craft show can be an exciting place for a young child, with all the people, colorful merchandise, and shiny objects surrounding them. Teach your children to ask before touching an item. Even if it is kid-friendly. If they see something they like, they should not grab it off a table and run off to show you.

Compliments are Free Even if you don’t have a dollar to spend, you can look and admire and say something that will make those artists glad they went to the effort to set up their booths and share their work. So compliment artists when you like something , that never goes out of style!

If you love the art and can afford it, buy it. You’ll end up with a piece of art you love, and you’ll be supporting an artist, and your local economy.

Keep these courteous points in mind and you will have a fantastic craft show experience, and you may even lift the spirits of those people around you. 

Photo by Miranda Jordan

“

A lot of time, personal creativity, and effort went into everything you see. An exhibitor’s booth is their temporary store and it took great effort to present it to you.

Generally it’s expected you’ll want to handle

”

things, but please do so carefully.

Photo BR

aw P

by Sh

AUGUST 2014 | Magnolia State of Mind

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Copiah Animal Shelter

C

opiah Animal Shelter (CAS) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit, volunteer-based, limited intake animal welfare organization.

Since 2011 CAS has provided shelter and medical care to lost and abandoned animals in Copiah County, Mississippi, and adjacent communities, until permanent placement can be arranged. CAS also works to reunite pets with their owners; find homes for unwanted animals through adoption; spay/neuter animals prior to adoption to help reduce overpopulation; educate the community about the effects of overpopulation; and educate the community in the prevention of abuse/neglect of animals.

“As responsible citizens, we need to provide an animal shelter and rescue program based upon the humane treatment of animals and the understanding that homeless animals, especially dogs and cats, suffer as a result of having no food, shelter, or from injury sustained while straying.” - Dr. Beckey Holifield

Dg

CAS is “community-sustained” receiving no city or county funding.

They operate solely on donations from the community, membership dues, adoption fees, and fundraising efforts. Currently the group occupies a modified building in Crystal Springs as a temporary shelter.

They currently have 9 inside kennels for dogs and space for 2-3 cats in their “Cat Corner”. Several foster families also house animals on a temporary basis. CAS is working hard to raise funds for land and to build a larger, permanent shelter.

Copiah Animal Shelter is comprised of a hard working dedicated group of people who are making a positive difference in the lives of homeless animals. CAS volunteers will be in attendance at the Mississippi Craft Show and will conduct an adoption drive and pet food drive at the show. Anyone who donates pet food and supplies to CAS at the Mississippi Craft Show will be entered into the drawing to win a stay package, including accommodation and meals, from Riverwalk Casino

in Vicksburg, or other great prizes. Check the Craft Show website and Facebook page for further details. Donations can be made at any time during the Craft Show. on Saturday or Sunday. The pet adoption drive will be conducted on Saturday only.

To donate, foster or adopt and for more information about CAS visit www.copiahanimalshelter.net. You can also visit them at the Mississippi Craft Show in August. 

Copiah Animal Shelter | Crystal Springs (601.954.6447 8www.copiahanimalshelter.net

Saturday 23 & Sunday 24 August Super Shopping. Entertainment. Food Cspire Phone Giveaway!

Entry Fee & Hours

Saturday 9am - 6pm | Sunday 11am - 4pm $7 at the door. $6 online before August 8th.

Advance tickets are entered into the draw to win a $250 shopping spree and limosuine ride to the show!

Children 12 and under FREE

Pet Food & Adoption Drive Pet Food Drive for Copiah Animal Shelter.

Adoption Drive (Saturday only).

Bring dog or cat food to donate to CAS and you could win a stay package (accommodation and meals) from Riverwalk Casino, Vicksburg or other great prizes.

Connect With Us Join our mailing list on our website, and like us on Facebook to stay connected! www.mscraftshow.com