April 11, 2015
www.palmerhome.org/event/mudbugbash-2015/
2 MARCH 2015 | Click magazine
4 MARCH 2015 | Click magazine
CONTENTS
March 2015
54 FEATURES 54
37 | BYHALIA AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AWARDS LUNCHEON
Bohemian travel chic
40 | WINE DOWN
65
BON VOYAGE
EXPLORE THE SOUTH Four vacation destinations perfectly suited for a Southern sabbatical
42 | 2015 INTERNATIONAL
BLUES CHALLENGE
44 | KIDNEY FOUNDATION’S
CHOCOLATE FANTASY
44 | DESOTO COUNTY DAY
OUT & ABOUT 33 | FCA BREAKFAST WITH
BOBBY BOWDEN
36 | AN EVENING WITH
DR. BEN CARSON
AT THE CAPITOL
45 | JUNIOR AUXILIARY OF
TATE-PANOLA’S 3RD ANNUAL CHARITY BALL
46 | INCOGNITO ART GALA
On the cover: Photo by Yen Studios. Vest $13, Sugar Plum Consignments; Skirt $35, Kata & Janes; Tank $10, Keepsakes by Melony; Bracelet $14, Pink Coconut Boutique; Vera Bradley Suitcase $280, Pink Zinnia
37 | YOUTH VILLAGES
SOUP SUNDAY Click magazine | MARCH 2015 5
CONTENTS March 2015
•
Volume 9
24
No. 3
DEPARTMENTS
30
13 | INTERVIEW On the Road with Aaron Lewis Aucoustic Aficionado Aaron Lewis returns to Tunica March 8
16 | FOOD Peppers, Spice & Everything Nice Nikki Schroeder brings the heat to the MidSouth
20 | ARTS The Brush that Binds Kate Bradley, local artist, draws charcoal portraits of impoverished youth to strengthen family bonds
20
24 | BOOKS The Beaten Path Regional exploration and adventures abound in this pair of Southern travel guides
26 | MUSIC A Royal Legacy Mark Ronson’s “Uptown Funk” gives Royal Studios and Memphis their first number – one hit since the 1970s
30 | CAUSES One Team at a Time MidSouth residents get a unique taste of Special Forces training in their own backyard
75 | ENTERTAINING To the Moon, Baby Tips and advice for the perfect getaway before a new baby arrives
78 | ON THE MONEY Beyond First Class The smartest way to get from Point A to Point B
IN EVERY ISSUE Editor’s Letter 8 Contributors 10
Calendar 48 See & Do 80
26 6 MARCH 2015 | Click magazine
Click magazine | MARCH 2015 7
On the Road Again
CASEY HILDER
editor’s letter
I’m pretty much the only one in my family who’s never been bitten by the travel bug. My mother, a former flight attendant, has been nearly everywhere in the world. When I was growing up, she would regale me with stories of eating exotic foods, getting stuck in unsavory locales and, most importantly, what to do when a toddler spits up on your blouse at 40,000 feet. My sister is a free spirit, roaming the wild and weird expanses of Texas in search of the next great band to follow. My dad, well, last I heard he was fighting bears up in Alaska because someone told him it was the last American frontier. They’re great inspirations to me, but I have to admit that I’m not much of a traveler myself. In fact, I have a confession to make – I’ve never been further north than St. Louis. Me, I prefer the decidedly un-hip term “staycation.” But this year, I’d like to branch out a bit, travel some more – you know, maybe not quite Alaska, but something decidedly unfamiliar – which leads me to the theme of this issue: exploring the South. Now, I know it’s easy to get caught up in the mystique and allure of some far-off place – heck, that’s why I read so many books growing up – but oftentimes we tend to overlook some truly fantastic places that are right under our noses. This month, Click has compiled a list of four wholly unique cities right here in the South that are perfectly suited for a fantasy getaway. Speaking of fantasy getaways, our lead photographer Rupert Yen has captured some truly astonishing images in this month’s travel-themed fashion feature, with larger-than-life backdrops courtesy of our friends at Wilson Air Center and AB Jets. See more in “Bon Voyage” on page 54. We’ve also got an exclusive interview with a man who knows travel quite well, perhaps since it’s all he does for 10 months of every year. Aaron Lewis, former acoustic rocker-turned country class act, graced us with his presence in advance of his March 8 show in Tunica. I advise you all to check this guy out on page 13 – he’s come a long way over the years. Beyond that, we’ve got a unique collection features that includes spicy Southern food (page 16) and hot tunes produced right here in the MidSouth (page 26), a mix that’s sure to usher out the rest of this cold weather. So from all of us here at Click: read on, ride on and – if you catch me on the couch when I should probably be elsewhere – chide on. Happy trails,
Write To Us:
Email editor@myclickmag.com or send us a letter at Click Magazine P.O. Box 100, Hernando, MS 38632. 8 MARCH 2015 | Click magazine
CLICK
People | Parties | Places Co-Presidents Jonathan Pittman & Angie Pittman Publisher Dick Mathauer Editor Casey Hilder editor@myclickmag.com
COPY + FEATURES Copy Chief Tonya Thompson Events Maggie Vinzant events@myclickmag.com Contributing Writers Tess Catlett, Casey Hilder, Michelle Hope, Shana Lusk, Alexandra Nicole
ART & PHOTOGRAPHY Art Director Jennifer Leonard Ad Design Jennifer Rorie Contributing Photographers Brian Anderson, Frank Chin, Casey Hilder, Kandi Tippit, Yen Studios
ADVERTISING Sales Director Lyla McAlexander lylamc@phpublishingllc.com Joseph Abraham Joseph@myclickmag.com Melanie Dupree mdupree@desototimestribune.com Sheri Ehlers sheri@phpublishingllc.com
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Click magazine | MARCH 2015 9
contributors
March 2015
Brian Anderson
Shana Raley Lusk
Various events in this issue were shot by local photographer Brian Anderson, a Memphis-based artist that started shooting professionally about six years ago and has been featured in Southern Living Magazine, Oxford American, MBQ and the St. Jude Gallery Collection, to name a few. He primarily focuses on the concerts, with a focus on blues and old-fashioned Southern music, as well as the Mississippi delta and cityscapes .
A lifelong reader and writer, Shana RaleyLusk is a freelance writer and book reviewer with a focus on Southern literature. A native of East Tennessee, Lusk holds an English degree with a concentration in literature from the University of Tennessee Knoxville and her work has appeared in a number of publications including At Home Tennessee magazine, The Knoxville News Sentinel and various others. This month, Lusk reviews two uniquely Southern travel books on page 24.
Alexandra Nicole This month’s travel style feature was coordinated by Memphis native Alexandra Nicole, who owns and operates three local boutiques, a makeup line and her very own fashion brand. From styling clients and working behind the scenes as a MUA and Stylist for fashion shows and shoots, to attending LA and New York market trips and runway shows, Alexandra lives for the fashion and trends of the modern woman’s lifestyle. For the modern woman who wants fashion, makeup, lifestyle and DIY ideas, and a behind-the-scenes look at Click’s fashion shoots, follow her blog at citychicliving.com.
Tonya Thompson A Southern-born writer and editor, Thompson has spent most of her lifebetween Nashville and the Mississippi Delta. Now, a contributing editor for Click magazine, Thompson writes frequently on life in the South through her blog, The Tenth Muse (tenthmusememphis. com). Originally from Clarksville, Tennessee, Thompson enjoys vintage motorcycling and traveling with her husband and children. This month, Thompson takes the GORUCK Challenge (page 30).
L. Taylor Smith L. Taylor Smith is a Jill of all spades when it comes to journalism. She’s been a reporter for multiple publications in the MidSouth, including The Daily Helmsman, The Leader and The Commercial Appeal. She recently graduated with her bachelor’s in Spanish and Journalism from the University of Memphis and currently works as the content creator for City Gear Clothing. This month, Smith tackles the dangerously spicy world of Nikki Schroeder (page 16).. 10 MARCH 2015 | Click magazine
Rupert Yen This month’s cover and fashion spread was shot by Memphis-based photographer Rupert Yen. With an extensive career spanning more than 30 years, Yen, founder and head photographer of Yen Studios, specializes in advertising, portrait, wedding and fashion photography. Rupert and his wife Debbie have been married for 29 years, and they have two beautiful daughters. When not looking for the next great shot, he enjoys playing tennis and traveling the world, taking pictures as he goes.
Click magazine | MARCH 2015 11
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UP FRONT ARTS, CULTURE AND PERSONALITIES
On the Road with Aaron Lewis Aucoustic aficionado Aaron Lewis returns to Tunica March 8 Interview by CASEY HILDER
Click magazine | MARCH 2015 13
up front
people
R
OCKER-TURNED-COUNTRY STAR AARON Lewis knows the road. Apart from being the title of his most recent album, Lewis’ affinity toward the sprawling American landscape has guided him through nearly two decades of touring as front man for hard rock outfit Staind in the midnineties and, now, as a solo country music artist. His own solo endeavors bear a southern twang and a penchant for specific, yet universally relatable musings. This month, Lewis sets his sights on the MidSouth as he returns to the Horseshoe Tunica for an intimate acoustic show on March 8.
Click Magazine: This month marks your return to touring after a short respite. How’s the traveling life treating you? Aaron Lewis: I can relate to being on the road for sure. I’ve been playing shows pretty much all the way through since the release of my solo debut in 2012. I took almost two
CM: How has the surge in popularity of “pop country” and
months off after Christmas and this month we’re getting back
the overall shift in genre affected your audience in the past
into touring heavily. It’s not necessarily even about promoting
couple of years?
or playing from the new record anymore – it’s about playing
AL: There’s a song that describes what’s going on with a lot of
shows. I tend to add new songs in as I write them every week,
it these days. It’s called “That Ain’t Country.”
so it’s not like people are getting the same experience any two shows – I’m not big on the same songs from the same record
CM: Ouch. What are some things you hear these days that
over and over.
you consider true country music? What inspires you?
CM: What’s it like to do two years of straight touring with
Johnson. I love some Jamie Johnson. But really, it’s all about
very little downtime?
the old stuff – Merle Haggard, Hank Jr., Sr., George Jones,
AL: Well, I’ve been pretty much on tour in one way or another
Charlie Daniels, Cash – freakin’ country music, for the love
for the past 17 years. In the past when I played with Staind,
of god.
AL: As far as the new stuff coming out, I’d definitely say Jamie
we’d be gone for 10 ½ months out of every year. Rock music touring works a little bit different than country music does –
CM: Let’s talk about The Road. This album seems to continue
they play six nights a week for eight weeks straight, spend a
your tradition of infusing your own specific brand of story-
week at home, and then do another six to eight weeks. Coun-
telling in music. How do you narrow it down to a few
try music plays mostly on the weekends. I don’t think people
favorites that are ready for radio?
would even know what to do if a country musician came
AL: I feel like any one of those songs could have been released
through and played mid-week.
as a single if the radio would play it. But that’s the key – radio has really gravitated toward a certain sound. But the numbers
CM: You’ve been playing live shows in one form or another
for my live shows and the numbers for some of the hitmak-
since you were 17 years old. What’s it like getting older in the
ers’ live shows have been roughly even, so it goes to show that
industry while building new fans? Do you Tweet?
you don’t need a lot of heavy radio play if you wanna play
AL: I’ve been kicking around the block for a little while now,
good country.
yeah. But you know, it’s a lot easier to get older in the country genre than any other type of music. It’s not a bad spot to settle
CM: Have you noticed a big difference in audience since your
down. And Twitter? Oh hell no. I got a new phone and I haven’t
old days playing with Staind?
even bothered getting it set back up.
AL: I really enjoy playing to the fans I have now. It’s a little
14 MARCH 2015 | Click magazine
bit more of a grown-up set, after all. I’m edging up on 43 years old now and I’m a little bit past all the screaming teens. CM: You’ve been all over the world, from London’s Bush Hall to dive bars across The Gulf. What are some of your favorite places you’ve been? AL: You know, I’ve done a lot of traveling and I’ve been to most places in the world. But I always kiss the ground when I get back here on U.S. soil. As far as specific shows, Texas shows and places down South are usually really fun. But I don’t want to alienate anyone here – anywhere that people will show up and hear what I’ve got to offer is fine by me. CM: What about down South? AL: I tend to be down South a lot, usually for work. But I have a place in East Texas where I tend to go spend my downtime. My buddy owns a few thousand acres, a couple thousand is pretty much a giant mud park for fourwheelers and stuff. The other couple thousand – well, it’s basically Africa. CM: I’ve heard you do a little hunting down there. What do you chase? AL: Everything. Anything. Whatever bleeds, man (laughs). CM: How about plans for 2015? Are you looking back to Staind or can we expect another solo venture? AL: I’m in the process of recording another country record. As far as Staind goes – it’s on the shelf for a little while. We went out and played a couple of shows last summer to wrap everything up and now I’m good for a while. Good shows and good times for sure, but I’m looking forward to my next album. It’ll be recorded over the course of the next few months and should release sometime within the first quarter of 2016. CM: What can people expect from your upcoming show in Tunica? AL: Songs from The Road, songs from Townline, new stuff that I haven’t even recorded yet – it’s always a good idea to test a few of these out. Click magazine | MARCH 2015 15
food
up front
Peppers, Spice & Everything Nice Nikki Schroeder brings the heat to the MidSouth Story by L. TAYLOR SMITH | Photos by CASEY HILDER
N
IKKI’S HOT A
** CHIPS ARE and
used it on pretty much everything I
Since starting in 2011, the Nikki’s Hot
** line has expanded to include kettle
cooked, and people started asking me
A
for it,” Shroeder says. “First they’d ask
chips and bloody mary mix, sold both
catching, too. The gaping maw that graces
what’s in it, then they’d say ‘if you’re not
online and in more than 70 stores nation-
every bag is that of the head honcho of
going to tell me, can you give me some.’
wide. And Shroeder’s face appears on
I’d put it in a little container for them. I
every bottle and box – partly as a warn-
aggressive,
in-your-face
the packaging is plenty eye-
**
the Hot A
line, Nikki Shroeder.
Shroeder, a graphic designer, never
felt kind of like a drug dealer.”
ing for the heat behind the label, but
intended to start her own brand of sea-
As demand for her seasoning grew on
soning but found that the grocery store
a small scale, her friends encouraged
did quality of Hot A
spices weren’t doing it for her. “There
her to bottle the mix, which already had
I was making in the kitchen,” Shroeder
are so many products out there that say
a name for itself. “When it came time
says with a laugh. “We took the picture
they’re hot, but they’re really not,” she
to name the product, everyone said it’s
in my kitchen, and it was just a snap-
says. “I just want everything to have
already named ‘Nikki’s Hot Ass Season-
shot for the mockup, but then, when it
so much flavor – salt and pepper were
ing,’” Shroeder says. “That was just sort
came time to really send it to print, we
never enough.”
also a reminder of the endearing, can-
**. “It’s just a face
of a public name that we thought would
probably took a hundred and none of
From her Memphis kitchen, Shroeder
not be very serendipitous to change. We
them turned out as good as the mockup.
used her special mix on everything
didn’t know if it would go over well or
We could never ever duplicate it; it’s
from ribs to hot wings to vegetables. “I
not, but that didn’t really matter.”
just too funny.”
16 MARCH 2015 | Click magazine
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Click magazine | MARCH 2015 17
up front
food
Much like the packaging, the intense flavor of Nikki’s Hot A
** Chips can’t be
copied. After the seasoning sold well in small grocery stores like Miss Cordelia’s Market in Memphis, Shroeder decided to go with kettle chips smacked with her seasoning as the next product. “I was already doing the homemade chips at home and wanted to perfect the recipe. The kettle chip is something really substantial, crunchy and holds onto the seasoning really well.” To set the chips apart, though, she added ghost pepper, a pepper 900 times hotter than Tabasco sauce. Having one of the world’s hottest peppers as an ingredient combined with the attention-grabbing name has helped
** products infiltrate nine states, and she hopes for many more Nikki’s Hot A
DRUNK CHICKEN MEATBALLS INGREDIENTS • One jigger of GOOD bourbon whiskey • Olive oil
to come. “What happens is somebody who has been to Memphis and had our chips, or somebody who has had a bag
• One 20 oz. package mild ground sausage, finely chopped and fully
of chips sent to them tries them, then
chips.’”
• Two large chicken breasts poached until very tender, sprinkled with
**
• One cup grated parmesan cheese
Chips are
the hottest chips in the country, it’s
** Seasoning and shredded finely
Nikki’s Hot A
• One golden onion, sautéed in olive oil until slightly browned
While it hasn’t been officially confirmed that Nikki’s Hot A
** Seasoning
• 1/3 cup seasoned bread crumbs
they make a request to their local place, and say ‘hey, the deli should carry some
cooked, sprinkled with Nikki’s Hot A • One egg
• One cup of chopped spinach or kale lightly sautéed in olive oil (fresh is preferred but frozen works, as well)
hard to argue with the fiery sting of the
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
ghost pepper about it. “I’ve never tasted
• 2 tbsp of Nikki’s Hot A
anything hotter, but you can put ghost
** Seasoning
pepper on anything and it’ll be hot;
DIRECTIONS
it’s a much more difficult task to make
1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with the
something hot and good.”
olive oil and place it in the oven while preheating.
Although they’ve run into conflicts
2. In a medium bowl, use your hands to mix together the sausage, egg,
in the past based on the somewhat
chicken, bread crumbs, spinach, tomato paste, 2 tbsp of Nikki’s Hot A
inflammatory name, Shroeder sticks
Seasoning and 1 jigger of whiskey.
to her guns when it comes to keeping
3. Form the meat into walnut sized meatballs.
the Hot A
**
line as true to its origins
**
4. Roll the fully formed balls in parmesan cheese.
as possible. “It’s not for everybody, it’s a
5. Place meatballs about 1 inch apart in the hot baking dish. Press down to
niche market, you can’t make a product
flatten the bottom slightly.
that literally is appealing to everybody.
6. Bake covered with foil for 15 minutes in the preheated oven. After 15
We really like it hot and really enjoy
minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for about 10 minutes, or
an all-natural product, and we weren’t
until somewhat crispy on the outside. Serve by themselves or with your
willing to compromise on that.”
favorite tomato-based sauce.
To find out where you can get your Hot
** fix, visit nikkishotA**.com.
A
18 MARCH 2015 | Click magazine
Click magazine | MARCH 2015 19
up front
arts
The Brush that Binds Kate Bradley, local artist, draws charcoal portraits of impoverished youth to strengthen family bonds. Story & Photos by REBEKAH OLSEN
T
AKE A PEEK INTO ANY PARENT’S CAMERA PHONE,
The portraits that hang in the homes on the fireplace mantels
and you’d be hard-pressed to find one that isn’t a
or the stairwell in the entry hall are a constant reminder to the
gigabyte away from being full of photos of their children
children that they are loved and valued. Their effects are long-
and their daily antics. With a phone always handy, there really
lasting, instilling a sense of pride, confidence and self-worth in
isn’t a moment that doesn’t get captured. But for Kate Bradley,
the children.
local artist specializing in children’s portraiture, her schedule is still never empty. Her subjects are the wealthiest children in Memphis, and
With each unveiling of a child’s portrait, Bradley helps families establish stronger bonds with their children, and because of the success of her business, Bradley is now paying it forward.
her commissions can cost anywhere from $2,000 to upwards
On Thursday, April 23rd at the annual Streets Ministries
of $20,000. But to Bradley and her clients, portraits possess a
fundraiser, Bradley will be unveiling a collection of 10 charcoal
quality that an iPhone photo simply cannot. With a careful
portraits of impoverished youth in the MidSouth. These
stroke of a brush, they capture the essence of a person in a
portraits will be donated to the families of the subjects, and a
specific moment and immortalize the soul. “A portrait is much
coffee table book that features the youth’s stories and portraits
more meaningful and richer… Because photography is more
will be given to sponsors and donors at the event.
prolific now, it makes portraits more precious. It can’t be done
“I hope that [the children] feel that their lives matter and that
in an instant. There’s something more that goes into them,”
they are worthy subjects of portraits. I hope their families get
says Bradley.
these portraits and find that [their children] are something to
20 MARCH 2015 | Click magazine
arts
up front
treasure. I hope that through this project, there’s heightened
will be displayed. After taking several photos of her subjects
awareness of the needs of these kids, “ Bradley says.
with different angles and poses, she then begins her work with
Streets Ministries, a faith-based mentorship program in
a rough sketch. Bradley uses soft brush strokes with gentle
Memphis where Bradley volunteers, has selected 10 children to
lines, and the backgrounds seem to fade out of sight as your
be the subjects of Bradley’s work. In 1987, Ken Bennett founded
eye is drawn to the almost angelic faces of the children. As you
Streets Ministries with the purpose of working with impov-
look through her portfolio, you can see how Bradley captures
erished youth in some of Memphis’ toughest neighborhoods,
the personality of the children; each portrait, which takes a
guiding them in education, engaging them in athletic activi-
month or more to complete, is unique.
ties and empowering them through one-on-one mentorship
Bradley’s first subject, a 14-year-old girl, was the original
programs. Bradley has been volunteering with the program for
inspiration of the idea for this project, “I had a girl that I
almost two years now.
mentor, Jasmine Johnson, and a couple of her friends over to
“A lot of these kids come from really unstable homes, that’s
my house…I was sitting there and I was doing little sketches of
why the work that Streets does is so important. It all starts in
them. They were so proud of them and they felt really special
the home... If you don’t have those positive role models, it’s
to be able to take those home. That was the seed of the idea.”
really hard to live the kind of life that all people are capable of
Bradley is looking forward to seeing the reaction on Jasmine’s
doing. It’s really hard to break out of that cycle of poverty if you
mother, Ebony Johnson’s, face. Ebony is a single mother
don’t have that ability,” explains Bradley.
working full-time and Bradley hopes that the portrait will be
Bradley called upon her own life struggles to find the
an unforgettable gift. “I think it would mean the world to her.
inspiration for her work with Streets Ministries, “I’ve been
Just to tell her that she is a good mom and she’s raised a good
given a gift and I have been blessed to be able to do this as my
daughter; that her daughter’s life is worth a lot.“
only job. There’s a responsibility in that way to give back and to use my art for people who can’t normally afford portraits.” Bradley’s beginnings as an artist can be traced back to her
In her studio, a window-laden sunroom nestled in her Downtown Memphis apartment, Bradley sketches another Streets Ministries youth, 16-year-old Irma Montes.
own childhood. She started painting at a very young age, and
“I feel like very, wow, special that I’ve been chosen to do this.
according to her parents, not always on paper. She graduated
I feel cool. I’m different,” Montes beams as she sits patiently
from Auburn University with a degree in painting but struggled
on a stool in the corner of the studio while Bradley works.
with getting started as a professional artist. After a stint in
Montes, whose family is from Mexico, is in eleventh grade at
Florence where she studied art—and wine, she adds—Bradley
Kingsbury High school and plans on joining the Air Force after
hired a business coach and founded her portraiture business,
she graduates, “My mom is really excited about [the portrait].
Kate Bradley Fine Art.
She’s going to put it on Facebook and everything.”
Before Bradley picks up a brush, she meets with the client
Montes and her family aren’t the only ones looking forward to
to get to know their personality, their interests and their
the unveiling. Bradley says the reception in the community has
“essence”. She also considers where in the home the portrait
been very positive, “people love hearing the story of these kids.” If you’d like to learn more about Kate Bradley, visit katebradleyfineart.com. And to learn more about Streets Ministries and the unveiling of the portraits, visit www. streetsministries.org.
“A portrait is much more meaningful and richer… Because photography is more prolific now, it makes portraits more precious. It can’t be done in an instant” Click magazine | MARCH 2015 21
22 MARCH 2015 | Click magazine
Click magazine | MARCH 2015 23
up front
books
The Beaten Path Regional exploration and adventures abound in this pair of Southern travel guides Story by SHANA RALEY-LUSK
F
ROM SPARKLING CITY SIGHTS TO BEATEN COUNTRY
Sun Studio who asks me what to do next, or my neighbor who
roads, our region is loaded with beautiful scenery and
confesses what she’s always wanted to do in town but never
unique experiences, making it effortless to plan the
gotten around to, these are my recommendations, plus insider
perfect weekend getaway right in your own backyard. If the
interviews and my personal tips for best experiencing them.”
bright lights of our beloved city pique your interest, Memphis holds countless distinctive attractions, many of which are
Country Stores of Mississippi by June Davis Davidson
little known even to the most seasoned locals. Those with a
If it is a trip back in time that you are craving this spring,
longing for the pure air of bucolic countryside will find that
look no further than Country Stores of Mississippi, where
Mississippi is a veritable treasure chest of possibilities.
author June Davis Davidson uncovers the area’s remaining
If exploring the region is on your agenda this spring, our
gems of yesteryear. Much more than a lighthearted tour of
March reading picks are the perfect place to start for fresh
Mississippi’s forgotten general stores, this book uncovers the
takes and creative ideas for enjoying all that the MidSouth
state’s rich history in great detail while also incorporating
has to offer.
the fun of front porches and roasting peanuts, which are two of the hallmarks of these old stores’ legacies. The relics
100 Things to Do in Memphis Before You Die by Samantha Crespo
remaining on the shelves of many of these forgotten stores
Whether you have lived in Memphis your entire life or are
tell the tales of communities that once thrived with activity in
visiting for the first time this year, the suggestions in 100
a time long gone. While some of the country stores explored
Things to Do in Memphis Before You Die are sure to be invaluable
here are long-since abandoned, others have been preserved in
for finding the ideal activities for getting to know this many
special ways. For instance, some have been turned into music
layered city. An expert on travel in the area, author Samantha
halls, museums, shops and more to serve their modern-day
Crespo digs deep to provide readers with the best Memphis-
communities. Each store has its own unique history and place
centered activities. From the best barbeque spots and craft
in Mississippi’s past. Some remain vital, while Davidson finds
beers around to festivals, museums, Italian ice and more, this
others dilapidated. She also recounts the captivating story of
book leaves no stone unturned in terms of Memphis fun for
the state’s oldest store, Wagner’s General Store at Church Hill,
the whole family. Bringing the kiddos on your trip? Crespo
which was built in 1834.
has you covered with suggestions for children’s museums and
She shares the ways in which these stores were the foun-
guided tours sure to familiarize your family with the city’s
dations of their small towns. “In rural communities, other
history. State parks and botanic gardens also make the list
than church and Sunday dinners, the general store was the
and, fittingly, live music is woven into the Memphis bucket
meeting place to socialize,” she writes. One such rural store is
list, as well.
Becton’s General Store located in the Carmichael community.
“What makes this book unique is that it is as much for visi-
It has been serving this area for over one hundred years, she
tors as it is for locals,” says Crespo. “The attractions that drive
notes. The book includes many black and white photographs
visitors to Memphis are all here — Graceland, Beale Street,
and detailed information on the location of each country
and the Mississippi River — but with lesser-known experiences
store for those looking to make their own journey to these
sprinkled in. So whether you’re the out-of-towner I meet at
important and antiquated historical landmarks.
24 MARCH 2015 | Click magazine
Earn a respected degree from a respected university. On the DeSoto campus of the University of Mississippi, you can complete your education with the high level of academics you— and future employers—expect from Ole Miss. Find out how convenient—and how affordable—it can be to get the degree that opens doors at Spring Visit Day on Tuesday, March 31. UM-DeSoto advisors will be in the NWCC DeSoto Center Lobby from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 4 to 6 p.m. to discuss programs, admissions requirements, scholarships, and financial aid. No registration is required. Call (662) 342-4765 for more information.
olemiss.edu/desoto
Click magazine | MARCH 2015 25
up front
music
A Royal Legacy Mark Ronson’s “Uptown Funk” gives Royal Studios and Memphis their first number – one hit since the 1970s. Story & Photos by MARY ECKERSLEY
E
VERYTHING
ABOUT
ROYAL
legendary Stax producer Al Bell.
Mark Ronson visited the studio and
Studios oozes music—from the
Having grown up around the studio,
returned three weeks later to record
records painted on the bricks to
Mitchell is no stranger to success or
his album Uptown Special, featuring the
the piano key steps leading up to the
celebrity. “I always knew the studio and
number-one hit “Uptown Funk.” On the
front door.
I would come here. It just felt like it had
studio’s wall of fame, Jeff Bhasker, Ron-
In a back hallway, gold and platinum
some kind of magic to it. I would meet
son’s co-producer, wrote: “Tonight mag-
records adorn cinder block walls while
all these famous people and would
ic happened.”
photo albums line bookshelves and an
hang out with them—the Jacksons, KC
Indeed, it did. The song, which was
arrangement for “I’m So Tired of Being
and the Sunshine Band, the Tempta-
released in November, has topped both
Alone” sits on a piano like a child’s
tions, just everybody. It was great, my
the US and UK single charts and reached
homework. One can almost hear the
childhood was great,” says Mitchell.
number one in several other countries.
Started in 1956 by Willie Mitchell as the
The album itself was released in Janu-
home of Hi Records and the Hi Rhythm
ary and debuted at number five on the
Section, the studio has produced such
Billboard charts.
“Boo” Mitchell, studio manager and
hits as Al Green’s “Let’s Stay Together”
“I was involved every step of the
grandson of Willie Mitchell, is eating
and Ann Peebles’ “I Can’t Stand the Rain.”
way; we all kind of had each other’s
barbeque while on the phone with
Last February, producer and musician
back,” says Mitchell, who served as
ghosts of sessions past reverberating from the walls, if only they could talk. Today, the studio is quiet. Lawrence
26 MARCH 2015 | Click magazine
music
up front
soulful and cutting edge,” says Mitchell.
an engineer on the album. He and fel-
was featured in Take Me to the River. “I
low engineer Joshua Blair took turns
want the studio to be known for having
Thanks to Uptown and Royal, the Bluff
working the 14-hour days.
its own vibe, but no matter what style
City has felt the limelight once again,
of genre it is, that we’ll do it well and
exactly as Mitchell wants. “I would like
ell is keeping the Royal legacy alive.
with our own signature and way of do-
to see us have an industry again because
He was always told by his ‘pops’ not
ing things,” says Mitchell.
Uptown is just one of the ways Mitch-
to make the place a museum and that
Another Royal project coming out this
right now, we just have a music scene. This is still the mecca so I’d like to see
its purpose is to make music, so that’s
year is one with the North Mississippi
the spotlight shined back on Memphis.
what he does.
Allstars and Robert Randolph called The
As forerunner to the world’s music, I’m
He also works to make Memphis better
Word. “It’s a different kind of record than
going to do my part every time I stick
and share its culture with the world. He
Mark’s record, but it’s still funky and
the key in the door,” says Mitchell.
serves as the current president of Memphis’ chapter of The Recording Academy, and last year he helped produce Take Me to the River, a documentary highlighting Memphis music’s past and present. “People can say whatever they want about our city, but we gave the world popular music,” says Mitchell. That music has inspired artists across genres to come to Memphis to work with the Mitchells and Royal—artists such as John Mayer, who was provided horn arrangements on his 2006 album Continuum; and rapper Snoop Dogg, who
Click magazine | MARCH 2015 27
28 MARCH 2015 | Click magazine
Click magazine | MARCH 2015 29
causes
up front
One Team at a Time MidSouth residents get a unique taste of Special Forces training in their own backyard Story by TONYA THOMPSON | Photography by KIT KLEIN
Jessica Maglisco, a few hours before completing the GoRuck Challenge.
W
HILE THE SUN ROSE OVER THE MISSISSIPPI RIVER
Challenge—a military-style team endurance event held in
on a cold morning last December, Jessica Maglisco—
multiple locations around the country at varying dates and
a Collierville resident, wife, and 33-year-old mother
times. This particular one had begun at 9 p.m. the night before.
of two—stumbled through the empty streets of downtown
With little more than nervousness, wrapped bricks, hydration
Memphis along with 11 other people, all struggling to carry a
packs, headlamps and a vague idea of what they just signed
tree trunk that none of them could have possibly carried alone.
up for, the group met their Cadre—a veteran of the U.S. Special
“Looking back on it,” she says, “I’m glad I didn’t know more
Forces—and began a 13-hour grueling journey together that
[before it happened]. It’s kind of like the anticipation leading
would leave them all exhausted, sore and thoroughly changed
up to Christmas morning, but your gifts are hydro-burpees
for the better by the end. It would be a slice of Special Forces-
in the Mississippi River and flutter kicks in a grassy area just
style training in their own backyard and it wouldn’t be easy.
off Beale, and maybe even a midnight swim in a duck pond.”
“We focus on building better Americans and we do that
Wait, a midnight swim in a duck pond in December? “Yes, that
through losing your sense of self and focusing on others,”
happened,” Maglisco says with a wide smile. “And yes, it was
says Kit Klein, a photographer, PR manager, and partnership
unbelievably cold and I thought I was going to die. If you think
manager for the GORUCK organization. Having completed 16
that’s crazy, you should see what 12 people look like carrying a
events himself, including mountain ascent challenges, Klein
15-foot log through downtown Memphis at 6 a.m.”
sees the value of the organization’s goals play out on a daily
All 12 had signed up for the Memphis-area GORUCK 30 MARCH 2015 | Click magazine
basis. “Our events put civilians in front of a decorated combat
veteran and give them a taste of their training,” he says. “The team aspect makes it more comfortable for other veterans to speak with civilians and see how they, the civilians, are willing to put themselves in the vets’ shoes for a few hours. Teamwork and adversity breed camaraderie that is hard to find outside the military, so it benefits veterans and civilians alike.” It’s a simple formula but according to Maglisco, that feeling of camaraderie was the most valuable lesson of the experience. “The GR Challenge taught me more about myself in 12 hours than I had learned in my previous 33 years on this planet,” she says. “When I left, I had learned how to really work as part of a team, how to compensate for one another’s weaknesses, how to let myself depend on others, and that I had nothing to prove to anyone. I’m a strong, determined woman who is capable of so much more than I ever knew. And as a team, we are capable of anything.” “The biggest thing was learning to come together as a team and rely on each other,” says Jon Vandiveer, a Memphis-based Information Assurance specialist and former military contractor who also completed the December Challenge with Maglisco. “Through the encouragement of the team, I pushed beyond what I thought I could do. Everyone worked together and encouraged each other, helped where they could and suffered as a group without whining. There was a tremendous sense of community, relying on the team and pushing through personal limits.” As for limits, Maglisco’s own self-imposed ones began when she first met her fellow teammates, including Vandiveer. “How was I, this 5’5” little blonde chick, going to be a strength to this team full of big guys, many of whom were former military? That’s when I realized my real fear: being the weakest link. Cadre Bruce gave us our patches on the banks of the Mississippi, with the sun rising behind us. He told us that we started as 12 individuals, but we finished as one team. He handed me my patch and shook my hand, and said, ‘Congratulations. You did great.’ I cried. After spending the whole night trying to be strong and not show any fear, I cried.” Even with responses like this from civilians, the greater achievement of the GORUCK organization is still in how it works to support and engage Special Forces Veterans at home. In fact, that support is at the core of its mission. The GORUCK organization was founded by Jason McCarthy, a former Green Beret, who had three particular goals for it—to serve as a voice for good, to employ more veterans of Special Operations than any organization outside the U.S. military, and to bridge the gap between military and civilian worlds. GORUCK is also dedicated to working closely with the Green Beret Foundation, a nonprofit support group for wounded Green Berets and their families, through fundraisers and awareness campaigns. “I am very happy to see a much higher appreciation for veterans than there was in the past,” says Klein, “but I think the media does a disservice by making veterans seem unapproachable. I think [GORUCK] is important because it helps bridge the gap for civilians being able to have a better understanding of who veterans are and not being ‘afraid’ to speak with them.” And it is this confrontation—with fear of the unknown and self-doubt— that is at the heart of what the GORUCK experience is about for many. “I would love to see more women do these events,” says Maglisco. “Whenever I tell other women about what I did, they almost always respond with ‘I could never do that.’ That response is exactly why they SHOULD do it. If I can get just one woman to stop saying ‘I can’t’ and see that she is capable of so much more than she ever knew, I would be happy with that.” For more information about GORUCK or to sign up for a GORUCK event, visit goruck.com. Click magazine | MARCH 2015 31
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OUT&ABOUT A RO U ND T OWN ONE PARTY AT A TIME
all things social Sunny & Gid Stuckey
FCA Breakfast with Bobby Bowden
T
he all-time winningest coach in major college football, Bobby Bowden, headlined the Fellowship of Christian
Athletes’ first prayer breakfast in DeSoto County. Scores of people came out for fellowship and fun at the Landers Center on February 12. All proceeds benefited FCA. Photos by CASEY HILDER
Click magazine | MARCH 2015 33
out & about
parties
Amanda Engstrom, Hank Sampson & Chris Fleming
Purchase Pics atom
Billy Sears, Sarah Bishop, Kyle McCoy & Claire Hicks
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Billy Fields, Brad Evans & Raymond Flores
Lawrence Meeks, Theron & Mary Long
Montreal Garmon, Franklin Beam & Raymond Turner
Sarah Edmiston, Kim Tarsi, Danita Chambers, Becky Samples & Karen Barry
Shirley, Robert & Holly Renee Seymour
Johnny Hill, Jadarrius Hoddges, Jim May, Ronnie Rhoda, Josh Curbow & Nick Nester
34 MARCH 2015 | Click magazine
Steve Douglas, Edith Robinson & Bill McCulley
Drew & Stacy Golden
Click magazine | MARCH 2015 35
out & about
parties
Anna Kate Minyard & Olivia Wilbanks
Forrest & Pat Hilton
An Evening with Dr. Ben Carson
P
almer Home for Children hosted Johns Hopkins neurosurgeon and political figure Dr. Ben Carson at idX Memphis on January 31. More than just a dinner and a photo-op, the event served
as a call to action. Carson believes empowering underserved
children through education will lead to more complete communities. Photos by FRANK CHIN
Emily and Jeff McEvoy
Greta & Dolph Bryan
Chelsea & Brent Sanders
Josh & Mary Meghan Mabus
36 MARCH 2015 | Click magazine
Karen & Susan Greene
Pam & Jimmy Galloway
parties
Della Mack & Hilda Arsenault
out & about
Scherra Bartoli & Keri Simerly Bryan Jenkins & Erica Bowman
Youth Villages
Soup Sunday
N
Lilly & Nate Mahoney
ow in its 26th year, Soup Sunday encourages MidSouth residents to sample a wide
variety of soups, breads, desserts and
other delights while supporting Youth Villages’ programs to help troubled children and their families. More than 50 of the area’s best restaurants get in Lauren Lewis & Jessica McCullough
on the fun each year. Photos by FRANK CHIN
Ric & Sue Heimke
Bill Kinkade, Kevin Blackwell & Bob Carrington
Doris Lee, Tommy Woods & Faye Woods
Doris Moore & Dilma Simpson
Sarah Kinkade, Montie Hamblin & Debbie Kinkade
Byhalia Area Chamber of Commerce
Awards Luncheon
M
ore than 100 people came out for the Byhalia Area Chamber of Commerce’s annual awards luncheon on January 29. Hosted at The Flame at Byhalia United Methodist Church,
the luncheon featured a presentation by the town’s mayor, Phil
Dr. Amy, Pat & Phillip Woods
Malone. Photos by JANICE WAGG Click magazine | MARCH 2015 37
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out & about
parties
Loren Smith & Nick Maynard
Natalie Mann, Doug Beaty & Rhonda Beaty
Wine Down
T
he Dixon Gallery and Gardens hosted the year’s first Wine Down
event on January 30. Dubbed “The
Cheese Edition,” the occasion offered the best in fine wines, delicious cheeses and
Sean & Gloria Dodds
Lyndsay Smitth & Carrie Wright
Wayne Neihoff & Mandy Roberts
Tera Shockley
Ailene Morisy
Erin Colebeck, Ben Rennie & Kevin Wong
40 MARCH 2015 | Click magazine
live music. Photos by FRANK CHIN
Carly Knight & Lewis Lyons
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Click magazine | MARCH 2015 41
out & about
parties
Brian Keith Wallen
Travellin Brothers
Altered Five Blues Band
2015
International Blues Challenge
N
ow in its 31st year, the International Blues Challenge
remains
the
world’s
largest
gathering of Blues musicians. Organized by
The Blues Foundation, the international showcase continues to turn out the best in Blues as more than 200 artists compete for cash, prizes and industry recognition. Photos by BRIAN ANDERSON
Nico Wayne Toussaint & Muskett & Carnes
Jay Sieleman
42 MARCH 2015 | Click magazine
Nico Wayne Toussaint
Libby Watson
Noah Witherspoon
2015 International Blues Challenge Winners: BAND First Eddie Cotton – Vicksburg Blues Society Second Noah Wotherspoon – Dayton Blues Society Third Nico Wayne Toussaint – Southern California Blues Society Gibson Guitar Noah Wotherspoon – Dayton Blues Society SOLO/DUO First Randy McQuay – Cape Fear Blues Society Second Brian Keith Wallen – Dayton Blues Society St. Blues Guitar Ben Rice Best Self-Produced CD Grafton Blues Association – Altered Five Blues Band, Cryin’ Mercy Lee Oskar Harp Award Nico Wayne Toussaint
The Good, The Bad, The Blues
Click magazine | MARCH 2015 43
out & about
parties
Lori Williams
Sandra Cooper & Vickie Carwell
Si-Ing Chen & Lindsey Schobert
Kidney Foundation’s
Chocolate Fantasy
T
he National Kidney Foundation of West Tennessee held the
30th Annual Chocolate Fantasy fundraiser on January 31. Over 30 vendors offered a selection of Memphis’ best chocolate
desserts, cadies, cookies, ice cream, pastries and other chocolate delights at Oak Court Mall. The West Tennessee Sugar Artists also presented the third annual Art Show and Competition featuring cake artists from across the MidSouth. Photos by FRANK CHIN
Amber & Jack Carpenter
Mark Gardner, Patti Denison and Bill Russell
Forrest Hamilton, Chip Johnson, Patti Denison and Sluggo Davis
DeSoto County Day at the Capitol
S
cores of DeSoto Countians traveled to the State Capitol of Jackson, Mississippi, on the week of February 17 to take part in
“DeSoto County Day,” a meet-and-greet with state legislators
and lawmakers. Photos by ELWIN WILLIAMS
44 MARCH 2015 | Click magazine
Barry Bouchillon & Wanda Davis
parties
out & about
Derick Johnson & Jessica Price
Barry & Sarah Perkins, Russ & Nicole Billingsley
Junior Auxiliary of Tate-Panola’s
3rd Annual Charity Ball
T
he Junior Auxiliary of Tate and Panola counties held its third
annual charity ball at 211 Main Hall and Gardens on February
14. The black-tie affair featured live entertainment, a delicious
dinner and a silent auction. Photos by MATT FLOYD
Ashley Lucius, Penny Byrd & Lindsey Criswell
Cherie Nelson, Nathon Hayes & Daniel & Rhetta Conn
Amanda Berry & Katie Harrison
Crystal & William Freeman
Tayler Boyd & Ben Rhodes
Click magazine | MARCH 2015 45
out & about
parties
Anne Sayle & Dr Emily ‘boo’ Cruch
Robin Rodgers & Susan Deloach
Eileen Adams, Lauren Daughtry, Laurie Hudson & C.J Drew
Mark, Josie & Mary Helen Butler
Carol & Joe Ballard
Incognito Art Gala
P
resented by SunTrust, the Incognito Art Gala and Silent Auction put a unique spin on the standard silent auction. Guests had
the opportunity to bid on 100 original, anonymous works of art,
and all proceeds from the art sales benefitted the Memphis Botanic Garden’s educational programming. Photos by BRIAN ANDERSON Leslie Young & Sherry Marowitz
Robin Heltsley, Sarah Elsner, Karen Dick & Anna Jordan
46 MARCH 2015 | Click magazine
Amy Hartlust & Brook Mills
Click magazine | MARCH 2015 47
out & about
calendar
SOCIAL AGENDA Your monthly resource for what’s happening around town
6-8
21
Red Shoe Gala
MidSouth Home Expressions Show
The Columns at One Commerce Square, 6-10 p.m. The chic circus affair in Memphis offers an extravagant night of libations and lavish food by local restaurants. Dance late into the night to the sounds of Memphis Soul Review while supporting Ronald McDonald House of Memphis. Admission $150. rmhc-memphis.org
Landers Center 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Fri.-Sat., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun. Meet with the MidSouth’s top professionals, peruse their products and discuss your design plans at the longest-running home show in Southaven. Admission $4-$8. midsouthhomeexpressions.com
7
Mississippi Blues Fest Leflore County Civic Center 7 p.m. Bobby Rush, O.B. Buchana, Ms. Jody, Donnie Ray, Vick Allen and Lamont Hadley all take the stage at the annual blues fest in Greenwood. Admission $27. mississippibluesfest.com
Harley’s and Hotcakes Southern Thunder Harley-Davidson 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Grab a short stack of pancakes before donating at the American Red Cross’ blood drive in Southaven. Admission free. southernthunderhd.com
19
Dinner on Stage Orpheum Theatre 6 p.m. Tour the theatre and backstage area, hear the history and enjoy a lavish three-course meal with wine. Admission $50-$75. orpheum-memphis.com
20
Brooks Uncorked Memphis Brooks Museum of Art 7-10 p.m. Taste more than 60 wines from around the world, dine on delicious entrees from Memphis’ best restaurants and listen to live music out on the terrace. Admission $80-$100. brooksmuseum.org
21 ARTini
Dixon Gallery & Gardens 6-8 p.m. Enjoy an evening of fabulous food and flowing cocktails while supporting the Dixon Gallery & Gardens. Admission $35-$150. dixon.org
48 MARCH 2015 | Click magazine
23-28
Memphis Fashion Week Jay Etkin Gallery 5:30-7:30 p.m. Weds. Shops of Saddle Creek 5:30-8 p.m. Thurs. Memphis College of Art 8 p.m. Fri. The Courtyard at Overton Square 8 p.m. Sat. Celebrate local and regional fashion through a film series, preview party and, of course, runway shows. Proceeds benefit the Memphis Fashion Fund and the Emerging Memphis Designer Project. Admission $50-$200. memphisfashionweek.org
27
7th Annual Taste of Hernando Cedar Hill Farm 6-9 p.m. Support small businesses at the annual Taste of Hernando. Complete with a silent auction and musical entertainment, this is one you won’t want to miss. Admission $25. gocedarhillfarm.com
28
Art Suitable For Framing Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church 1-6 p.m. Sponsored by Elpis Philoptochos, this exhibition and sale benefits Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital. Admission $10.
ONE Night Cook Convention Center 6 p.m. Region One Health Foundation’s annual gala continues to impress with sold-old crowds, and this new event is sure to do the same. The Bar-Kays, the Pointer Sisters and the O’Jays are ready to fill up the dance floor. Admission $600. regionalonehealthfoundation.org
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out & about
calendar
ENTERTAINMENT MUSIC
The Beach Boys
VISUAL ARTS 6 through June 7
1
Tributaries: Vivian Beer
Big Richard
National Ornamental Metal Museum, Memphis 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tues.-Sat., Noon-5 p.m. Sun., Admission $4-$6 metalmuseum.org
Stage2 at GoldStrike Casino, Tunica goldstrikemississippi.com
5-8 Almost Famous Stage2 at GoldStrike Casino, Tunica goldstrikemississippi.com
6 Mike Tyson: The Undisputed Truth Tour Horseshoe Casino, Tunica 8 p.m., Admission $41.50-$102 ticketmaster.com
7 Ledisi Orpheum Theatre, Memphis 8 p.m., Admission $55.50-$65.50 orpheum-memphis.com
7 Jimbo Mathus Hi-Tone Café, Memphis 10 p.m., Admission $10 hitonememphis.com
8 Aaron Lewis Horseshoe Casino, Tunica 8 p.m., $26.50-$102 ticketmaster.com
10-16 Brief Encounters by Martin Arnold By Louise Palanker
8 Bush Minglewood Hall, Memphis 8 p.m., Admission $30-$225 minglewoodhall.com
13 Josh Turner Horseshoe Casino, Tunica 8 p.m., Admission $36.50-$102 ticketmaster.com
14 Santana Orpheum Theatre, Memphis 8 p.m., Admission $85-$250 orpheum-memphis.com
19 Hawthorne Heights Hi-Tone Café, Memphis 9 p.m., Admission $20 hitonememphis.com
21 Engelbert Humperdinck
By E Photos
13 through June 7 J. Fred Woell: Art is an Accident National Ornamental Metal Museum, Memphis 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tues.-Sat., Noon-5 p.m. Sun., Admission $4-$6 metalmuseum.org
through March 15 DiscoverME: Exploring Identity Through Art Therapy Memphis Brooks Museum of Art, Memphis 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Weds., 10 a.m-8 p.m. Thurs., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat., 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun., Admission $3-$7 brooksmuseum.org
through March 29 Lester Merriweather: Nothing Is For Ever Last Dixon Gallery & Gardens, Memphis 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tues.-Sat., 1-5 p.m. Sun., 10 a.m.-8 p.m. third Thurs., Admission $3-$7 dixon.org
GoldStrike Casino, Tunica 8 p.m., Admission $59.95-$79.95 goldstrikemississippi.com
through April 19
21
Dixon Gallery & Gardens, Memphis 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tues.-Sat., 1-5 p.m. Sun., 10 a.m.-8 p.m. third Thurs., Admission $3-$7 dixon.org
The Beach Boys
50 MARCH 2015 | Click magazine
The University of Mississippi Museum, Oxford 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Tues.-Sat., Admission $3-5 museum.olemiss.edu
Horseshoe Casino, Tunica 8 p.m., Admission $36.50-$102 ticketmaster.com
Hail, Britannia! Six Centuries of British Art from the Berger Collection
PERFORMANCE ARTS 6 50 Shades! The Musical Parody Orpheum Theatre, Memphis 8 p.m., Admission $29-$55 orpheum-memphis.com
7 and 14 Winnie-the-Pooh Circuit Playhouse, Memphis 10 a.m., 2 p.m., Admission $5-$10 playhouseonthesquare.org
20-21 The Color Purple Orpheum Theatre, Memphis 8 p.m. Fri., 3 p.m., 8 p.m. Sat., Admission $42.50-$49.50 orpheum-memphis.com
28-29 Disney in Concert: Magical Music of the Movies Orpheum Theatre, Memphis 7:30 p.m. Sat., 2 p.m. Sun., Admission $25-$250 orpheum-memphis.com
Click magazine | MARCH 2015 51
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Bon Voyage Photography by YEN STUDIOS Fashion Coordinator MAGGIE VINZANT Styling and Makeup by ALEXANDRA NICOLE Hair by MARCIE SECCOMBE Location WILSON AIR CENTER Models KASEY CORUM & BRITTANY FLETCHER
Click magazine | MARCH 2015 55
Jacket $112, Tank $36, Janie Rose Boutique; Pants $34, SoCo Apparel; Shoes $58, Necklace $22, Pink Coconut Boutique; Bag $53, Kata & Janes; Hat $40, Paisley Pineapple 56 MARCH 2015 | Click magazine
Jacket $44, Janie Rose Boutique; Shirt $46, Necklace $20, Bracelet $14, Pink Coconut Boutique; Pants $40, Bethany Michaels; Hat $28, Center Stage Fashions; Purse $89, Keepsakes by Melony
Click magazine | MARCH 2015 57
Poncho $60, Sugar Plum Consignments; Shirt $44, Center Stage Fashions; Pants $69, Paisley Pineapple; Necklace $16, Necklace $20, Pink Coconut Boutique 58 MARCH 2015 | Click magazine
Shirt $28, The Bunker; Pants $10, Jenny Kate; Hat $30, Janie Rose Boutique; Necklace $54, Paisley Pineapple; Earrings $16, Pink Coconut Boutique Click magazine | MARCH 2015 59
Shirt $132, Paisley Pineapple; Lace tank $46, Bethany Michael; Hat $30, Janie Rose Boutique; Earrings $14, Necklace $22, Pink Coconut Boutique 60 MARCH 2015 | Click magazine
Left: Shirt $54, Paisley Pineapple, Pants $32, SoCo Apparel; Shoes $29, Purse $70, Bracelet $14, Pink Coconut Boutique; Necklace $26, Earrings $14, Janie Rose Boutique Right: Dress $3,500, Dress Maggie Louise; $140, Janie Rose Boutique; Flower arrangements Olive Branch Florist Purse $98, Shoes $129, Center Necklace $4,700; Ring (setting) Stage Fashions $4,500 Earrings $4,500, Van Atkins Jewelers Click magazine | MARCH 2015 61
Shirt $58, Center Stage; Pants $32,$2,675, Purse $90, Ear-Louise; Dress Maggie rings $25, Pink Coconut Bouquet Olive Branch Florist Boutique; Necklace $48, Pink Zinnia 62 MARCH 2015 | Click magazine
SHOP THE ISSUE BETHANY MICHAEL BOUTIQUE AND SALON 3451 Goodman Rd. Southaven, 662.874.6879 THE BUNKER 2424 Mount Pleasant Rd. Hernando, 662.470.4843 CENTER STAGE FASHIONS 324 W. Commerce St. Hernando, 662.429.5288 JANIE ROSE BOUTIQUE 5627 Getwell Rd. Ste. A10 Southaven, 662.510.5577 janieroseboutique.com JENNY KATE MONOGRAMMING & BOUTIQUE 1881 Nail Rd., Suite F Horn Lake, 662.253.8690 KATA & JANE BOUTIQUE 9094 Goodman Rd. Olive Branch, 901.318.2860 KEEPSAKES BY MELONY 230 W. Center St. Hernando, 901.491.3038 PAISLEY PINEAPPLE 6515 Goodman Rd. #2 Olive Branch, 662.895.2111 paisleypineapple.net PINK COCONUT BOUTIQUE 5142 Goodman Rd. #113 Olive Branch, 662.892.8175 pinkcoconutboutique.com PINK ZINNIA 134 W. Commerce St. Hernando, 662.449.5533 SO CO APPAREL 2521 Caffey St. Hernando, 662.298.3493 SUGAR PLUM CONSIGNMENTS 6100 Primacy Parkway Memphis, 901.763.7799 sugarplumconsign.com
Click magazine | MARCH 2015 63
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Explore South THE
Four vacation destinations perfectly suited for a Southern sabbatical Story by Click Staff
Click magazine | MARCH 2015 65
MUSCLE SHOALS, AL The quad cities’ musical mecca Tucked away in the northwest corner of Alabama, Muscle Shoals is said to have earned its name from the mussels that inhabit the shallow banks of the nearby Tennessee River. And while the aquatic life of the area is surely of note, the breadth of activities in the quad-city area of Florence, Muscle Shoals, Tuscumbia and Sheffield boast more than enough music, arts, cultural and historical activities to suit any taste.
ARTS AND THEATER Much of Muscle Shoals’ musical history is rooted in the signature sounds that originated from FAME Studios, a legendary recording studio that produced tracks for renowned artists like Aretha Franklin, Little Richard, Otis Redding, the Osmonds, Jerry Reed, Alabama, Bobbie Gentry, Jason Isbell, Matisyahu, Band of Horses, Drive by Truckers and Jamie Johnson, to name a few. The “Muscle Shoals Sound” has gained iconic status as its own subgenre of sorts, thanks to FAME founder Rick 66 MARCH 2015 | Click magazine
Hall’s willingness to incorporate a variety
SOUTHERN SOUNDS
of recording artists of different races and
Ivy Green, the childhood home of
backgrounds, creating a musical melting
American icon Helen Keller, is located
pot. The smooth, distinct bass produced
in nearby Tuscumbia, Alabama. This
and pioneered through artists like Mavis
sprawling early 19th century manor
Staples and Arthur Alexander are said
draws scores of annual tourists for live
to have left the Beatles’ John Lennon
performances of William Gibson’s The
green with envy, yearning to replicate the
Miracle Worker. The town hosts its pop-
sounds of FAME. With a repertoire of re-
ular Helen Keller Festival every June, a
cordings that stretches more than half a
citywide summertime celebration that
century, it’s no coincidence that the influ-
not only pays tribute to its eponymous
ential Tennessee River’s Native American
honoree, but also the music and arts
nom de guerre is “The Singing River.”
that bring the city to life.
FISHERMAN'S FANTASY The city of Muscle Shoals and the Greater Colbert County area sports a few highly praised spots for enterprising anglers. Pickwick and Wilson Lakes have been cited by local fisherman as some of the best fishing in the country by B.A.S.S. Bassmaster Magazine, Timmy Horton Outdoors and Bill Dance Outdoors, among others, with a diverse habitat
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ANNUAL EVENTS
als understand the needs of the market they serve.
annual events, including the large-scale Civil War drama and reenactment of Recall LaGrange in early May and the Trail expansive excursion that tracks the fateful path of Native Americans in honor of the Cherokee, Choctaw, Chickasaw, Creek,
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and Seminole nations. Additionally, the W.C. Handy Music Festival takes place in July. This 10-day festival celebrates Muscle Shoals’ rich musical heritage and casts a spotlight on local blues and jazz acts, all while incorporating a bevy of educational, artistic and athletic events.
WEBSITES Tourist Information cityofmuscleshoals.com Additional Information colbertcountytourism.org FAME Studios fame2.com Helen Keller Birthplace helenkellerbirthplace.org Pickwick Lake fishpickwicklake.com W.C. Handy Music Festival wchandymusicfestival.org Trail of Tears Motorcycle Ride al-tn-trailoftears.net/index.php
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Click magazine | MARCH 2015 67
NEW ALBANY, MS A red-letter retreat for the active lifestyle New Albany, Mississippi, located just 70 miles southeast of Memphis on Hwy 78 is quickly becoming known as a Southern shopper’s paradise. New Albany’s picturesque downtown rises up from the banks of the famed Tallahatchie River and is home to no less than a dozen antique stores, as well as a wide selection of restaurants, clothing stores, art galleries and more.
BLAZE A TRAIL In 2013 New Albany became the north-
The trail’s location right in the middle
trained, so they may not always perform).
of downtown New Albany has sparked a
Nevertheless, it is an interesting way to
number of renovations, including Trails
spend the afternoon.
& Treads, an outdoor store specializing in running, biking, hiking and backpack-
The Union County Heritage Museum, is
shop is renovating space off the trail in
a wonderful museum that not only show-
order to sell coffee, sandwiches, ice cream
cases the history of Union County, but the
and fresh juices and teas.
region as well. The museum is also home
New Albany is also home to a USTA
to the Faulkner Garden, where visitors will
award-winning tennis facility. Connected
learn about plants native to the region
to downtown via the Park along the River,
and, if the time is right, enjoy some trav-
the New Albany Tennis Complex has a
eling exhibits from the Smithsonian and
number of state of the art courts and one
other national museums. Incidentally, the
of the largest pro shops in the region. A
museum, located in the Historic North-
short walk from the tennis complex is the
side Neighborhood, is next door to the
ernmost gateway to the new Tanglefoot
New Albany Spray Park where kids
Trail – a 44-mile paved, non-motorized
can get cool in the summer and par-
trail that stretches from New Albany to
ents can relax in the shade.
Houston, Mississippi along an abandoned
Another unique attraction that is
rail line that was built by the grandfa-
somewhat new to New Albany is
ther of New Albany’s most famous citi-
the Wolf Howl Wolf Preserve where
zen, Nobel Prize winning author, William
you will get to view wolves and wolf
Faulkner. Because of its length, relatively
pups. Tours are offered where you
flat terrain and the beauty of the country
learn about habitat, behaviors and
it winds though, the trail is quickly be-
more. If you’re lucky, you’ll be able
coming a favorite destination for bikers,
to witness scent rolling and howling
runners and hikers.
demonstrations (the wolves are not
68 MARCH 2015 | Click magazine
HERITAGE AND HISTORY
ing. The Art of Dixie, a gallery and antique
spot where William Faulkner was born. For those interested in the pre-Columbian history, the Ingomar Mounds are just outside of town in the hamlet of Ingomar. The mounds are believed to have been built roughly 2,000 years ago by people who traveled hundreds of miles to trade with other societies. The height of one particular mound makes it one of, if not the largest, Indian mound in the Southeastern United States.
NEW ALBANY EATS New Albany is home to a number of independent restaurants for hungry shoppers to enjoy. Mexican, Asian, Italian, New Orleans cooking and traditional Southern fare fills the bill. One restaurant of particular interest is Latham’s Hamburger Inn. Tucked away in a little enclave on Main Street, this little diner harkens back to the Great Depression, serving up tasty doughburgers and similar fare. A number of bigbrand hotels in the city, plus a beautiful Bed & Breakfast, Miss Sarah’s Inn, which is located just steps from downtown and the Tanglefoot Trail.
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ANNUAL EVENTS Coming up in April is the New Albany Home and Garden Show which is quickly becoming a prominent meeting for Master Gardeners and gardening enthusiasts. In May, the city comes alive with the sound of bluegrass music with the Down from the Hills Bluegrass Festival and State Fiddling Championship. And then in September the city hosts the Tallahatchie Riverfest which features regional arts and music in a beautiful setting along the banks of the Tallhatchie River.
WEBSITES Tourist Information: visitnewalbany.com Union County Heritage Museum: ucheritagemuseum.com The Tanglefoot Trail: tanglefoottrail.com Wolf Howl Wolf Preserve: everythingwolf.com Sugaree’s Bakery: sugarees.com Art of Dixie Gallery: theartofdixie.com
Olive Branch Women’s Center Olive Branch Women’s Center is an obstetrics and gynecological practice specializing in comprehensive care for women of all ages. Dr. Silpa Hansen delivers babies at Methodist Olive Branch Hospital, along with our other Methodist OB/GYNs, Dr. Charles Ryan and Dr. Dabney Hamner.
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5480 Goodman Road, Suite 2 • Olive Branch, MS 38654 • 662.893.9885 methodisthealth.org/olivebranch
Click magazine | MARCH 2015 69
AMELIA ISLAND, FL The legendary royal island with a Southern accent Crystalline sand and clear beaches welcome visitors to Amelia Island, a place long known as one of the last unspoiled U.S. barrier island getaways, this sliver of land off the northwestern coast of Florida has been named one of the nation’s favorite beachfront towns by publications like USA Today, Travel + Leisure and The Huffington Post.
ROMANTIC RETREAT
ages. Amelia Island also boasts a number
that offers therapeutic salts and daily
of expansive wedding venues and lush
infusion classes. The south end of the is-
gardens with planning assistance avail-
land offers the Palmetto Walk Shopping
able from the Amelia Island Convention &
Village, a walkable mall featuring a vari-
Visitors Bureau.
ety of fine art and clothing stores.
SOAK IT IN
BEACH BANQUETS
Sand, sun and shopping are the typical
unique
usually plenty of each to make for a
waterfront seafood shacks to upscale
memorable experience. The Amelia River
dining establishments run by world-
Golf Course is hailed as one of the best-
class chefs. Shrimp is among the
conditioned courses in the
Amelia Island offers a romantic retreat
country, featuring a par-72
for couples seeking the perfect honey-
track that plays to a yard-
moon, with activities ranging from beach-
age of 6,808 from the back
front horseback riding to citywide tours
tees. Amelia Island pro-
on horse-drawn carriages. The island also
motes a number of ways to
boasts several world-class spas, with the
tour the island, including
“Heaven in a Hammock” package at the
trolley, horseback, guided
local Ritz Carlton hailed as one of the best
walking excursions, and
spa treatments around. For a more seclud-
more. A variety of consign-
ed, intimate experience, guests are invited
ment and thrift stores are
to stay at a bevy local bed-and-breakfast
available for the discerning
establishments,
Elizabeth
shopper, as well as higher-
Pointe Lodge, a boutique hotel that offers
end places such as The Salt
babymoon and romance-themed pack-
Shop, a specialty boutique
including
70 MARCH 2015 | Click magazine
Amelia Island packs more than 70
goals of Amelia Island tourists, and there’s
restaurants,
ranging
from
biggest exports of Amelia Island, with nearby Fernandina Beach hailed as the birthplace of the modern shrimping industry. Timoti’s
Seafood
Shak, a
local favorite, serves up freshly caught local shrimp and more, while also providing a pirate ship playground for the kids. For a more intimate dining experience, guests are encouraged to try the Italian cuisine offered at Ciao or brunch at Lulu’s at the Thompson House, an eclectic eatery that offers a wide selection of seafood, including a variety of specially made shellfish dishes. Early risers are encouraged to investigate Hola!, an authentic Cuban café and pastry shop.
ANNUAL EVENTS Amelia Island hosts a number of elegant annual events, including the celebrated Councours D’Elegance in March, an event that brings a fleet of 250 of the world’s rare and classic cars as part of the Amelia Councours Week, a weeklong celebration that includes several silent auctions and automobilethemed events.
May brings the Isle
of the Eight Flags Shrimp Festival, named for both the myriad settlers who discovered the island, as well as one of its most celebrated exports. This citywide festival includes live music, arts and crafts, and of course – lots and lots of shrimp. Later in the year, the island hosts a two-day local blues festival in September featuring local and regional artists, followed by a jazz festival in October that will welcome Grammy winners David Sanborn and Ramsey Lewis to the island.
WEBSITES Amelia Island Tourist Information ameliaisland.com Lulu’s at the Thompson House lulusamelia.com Hola! Cuban Café holacubancafe.com Elizabeth Pointe Lodge B&B elizabethpointelodge.com Isle of the Eight Flags Shrimp Festival shrimpfestival.com Amelia River Golf Club golfameliariver.com
Click magazine | MARCH 2015 71
FAIRHOPE, AL The Micropolitan Jewel of the Eastern Shore Fairhope’s iconic pier serves as the city’s “town square,” and includes an expansive park with covered areas, a marina, restaurant, walking trails and a duck pond. The Marietta Johnson Tree Trail on the campus of Faulkner State Community College and Beach Park Tree Trail are a pair of self-guided trails that identify hundreds of trees, including more than 25 different species. Vibrant native plants and birds dot the beachfront and surrounding areas, with a perfect convergence of blue herons, dragonflies and dogwood flowers to set the mood.
NATURAL BEAUTY Fairhope’s flourishing art community is tough to escape, with numerous public displays that include the work of Ameri’ca Jones-Gallaspy, an artist who incorporates regional themes into her bronze-based work. The city is also home to renowned artist and historian Dean Mosher, whose 72 MARCH 2015 | Click magazine
paintings of land, sea and air in America’s
are Fairhope’s forte, with dozens of shops
earlier days have been featured in the
fit for all styles. Abigail’s Closet Designer
Smithsonian Museum. There’s also the
Consignment is the go-to for trendy
Fairhope Museum of History, a Spanish
designer and upscale consignment cloth-
Mission Revival structure that conveys the
ing, as well as a wide selection of accesso-
colorful history of the city.
ries from designers like Tory Burch, Mil-
TOP SHOPS Apparel, antiques and art galleries galore
ly, Yellow Box, Seven for All Mankind and Diane Von Furstenburg. The Cat’s Meow Boutique also stocks similar fare, with
elegant and casual women’s wear that includes brands like Two Wishes, Yellow Box Shoes, Corky’s and Privo alongside a collection of kitschy, “purr-fect” catthemed goods. Other noteworthy stores include Deja vu, a bohemian-themed clothing boutique and Gigi’s and Jay’s, a children’s boutique that features clothing from the infant to teenager range.
ANNUAL EVENTS The annual Mardi Gras celebration in Fairhope is among the largest in the region, with a weeklong cavalcade of events in February that include “The Mystic Mutts of Revelry,” a dogwalking parade with plenty of canine style and showmanship. Fairhope’s annual events also include the city’s Arts & Crafts Festival in March. For the 63rd year in a row, Fairhope will welcome more than 230 regional artists to take place in a prestigious juried show over a three-day period. The city also offers a tour of historic homes in April, featuring some of the oldest architecture in the state updated for use in modern times. September brings the L.A Songwriters’ Festival, which calls for 36 original songwriters on the intimate but spacious Hall Stage during the three days with a jam session at the end of each evening’s performances.
WEBSITES Fairhope Tourist Information cofairhope.com Fairhope Merchants fairhopemerchants.com Outdoor Spaces beautifulfairhope.com L.A Songwriters’ Festival americanlegion199.com Dean Mosher Art deanmosher.com The Cat’s Meow catsmeownet.com
Click magazine | MARCH 2015 73
Photo & Styling: Well Worn Co. Model: Shelby Priest (AMAX) Wardrobe: Mara Hoffman (Indigo) Jewelry: Brave Design (Spruce) Wig: Central Wigs
GRIT &
GLAM MARCH 23-28 2015
FEATURED DESIGNERS & SPONSORS
Join the fun as Memphis budding designers, stylists, models, and photographers celebrate home-grown talent and global icons on the runway.
Anne Barge | Maggie Louise Bridal Diane von Furstenberg | Joseph Dilettante Collection by Tara Skelley Emerging Memphis Designer Project Faherty Brand | Oak Hall Mara Hoffman | Indigo
For event details and tickets, visit MemphisFashionWeek.org/events.
74 MARCH 2015 | Click magazine
ADDITIONAL SPONSORS Memphis Magazine RSVP Magazine | Click Magazine Memphis Flyer | Pavo Salon.Spa Saddle Creek | Southern Couture Eclectic Eye | The Beyond Beauty Group | Spruce 20twelve | Sachi
ENTERTAINING To the Moon, Baby Tips and advice for the perfect getaway before a new baby arrives Story by MICHELLE HOPE
entertaining
T
AKING A “BABY MOON” IS A RAPIDLY GROWING trend that has come about in the past couple of
• First things first – keep your doctor in the loop.
years, providing a fun excuse to get a way before
Traveling can be difficult when you are pregnant and
you welcome a new baby into your family and say goodbye
should be discussed with your OB for approval. The
to those nights of un-interrupted sleep… for a while anyway.
most important thing is safety, so be sure there is ad-
I recently took a “baby moon” myself so I could give first
equate medical care/staff available at the destinations
hand information and tips to readers considering planning their trip. Not to mention, I was expecting my second child and wanted to get away before we became a family of four.
you consider. • The best time to travel is usually during the second trimester. You will be the most comfortable and hopefully over any sickness. According to the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the safest time to travel is from 18-24 weeks. • Location is key! Choose a destination that is easy to travel to and has safe water for drinking on site. I chose the Seven Stars Resort on Grace Bay in Turks and Caicos, in the Caribbean. The easy access (only a 95 min flight from Miami) was appealing along with all the rave reviews. The Seven Stars was especially great with many options for pregnant women and did not disappoint. • I had fun “mock-tails” to choose from at the bar, lots of delicious dishes that cater to diet restrictions
The physical activities you are allowed to participate in are more
during pregnancy, and even services in the spa. The
limited during pregnancy, but I found Seven Stars to offer plenty
maternity massage was the best. The gorgeous Grace
to keep me busy.
Bay Beach was within steps of our room and there were even bikes to use for peddling around town if
To plan your own Baby-moon at Seven Stars, visit their website at www.sevenstarsgracebay.com
76 MARCH 2015 | Click magazine
we wanted to shop or explore.
MANGO “NO-JITO” In a cocktail shaker, muddle ice fresh mint sprigs Add: 1 oz Fresh Mango 1 oz Pineapple juice lime juice (2 fresh lime wedges, squeeze and drop) Shake on ice until chilled. Add: 2 oz club soda 2 oz lemon lime soda. Serve in rocks glass with straw.
WATERMELON FRESCA (makes 1 pitcher) INGREDIENTS • 8 cups cubed seeded watermelon • 1 cup water, divided • 1/3 cup sugar, divided • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice • 1 liter (4 cups) club soda, or seltzer • water, well chilled • Lime slices, for garnish DIRECTIONS Combine half the watermelon, half the water and half the sugar in a blender; puree. Pour through a coarse strainer into a large container. Repeat with the remaining watermelon, water and sugar. Stir in lime juice. Refrigerate until well chilled, about 4 hours. To serve, stir in club soda (or seltzer) and garnish with lime.
Click magazine | MARCH 2015 77
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Click magazine | MARCH 2015 79
SEE&DO ONE T H ING NOT TO MISS THIS MONTH
S D
​5th Annual Mumbo Gumbo Cook-off March 15 Fillin Station Grille will host its annual Mumbo Gumbo Cook-off on March 15 at its Southaven location. The event, which calls for teams of chefs to pit their best Creole creations head-to-head, will feature live music and all-you-can-eat gumbo dishes. Proceeds from this event will benefit the DeSoto Arts Council.
80 MARCH 2015 | Click magazine
Click magazine | MAY 2014 1