JANUARY 2014
Cold Comforts
COATS, SWEATERS & EXTRA-COZY LAYERS
BATTLE OF THE BLUES GHOST TOWN BLUES BAND
Interview:
ROBERT PITTMAN
MAKING AIRWAVES
The Faces of
Good Health
BUILDING YOUR BACKYARD DREAMS
free estimates | fiberglass | vinyl liner | gunite | water falls and spas | poolhouse | gas firepits | outdoor kitchens
JOE BUTLER BUILDS YOUR POOL JUST LIKE IT’S HIS OWN. No subcontracts, we have all our own equipment and people, nothing but the best for our customers.
Olive Branch, MS 38654
662.781.7800 butlerpoolandspa.com
The Lucius family from Senatobia
The best experiences are with the ones you trust. When it comes to your health and the health of your family, you want the best. The best doctors, the best facilities, the best technology. That’s why Baptist is always thinking of ways to deliver the best, safest, and most efficient care. So you and the ones you love can spend more time on the good things in life. Get better with Baptist.
Get Better.
CONTENTS January 2014
59
FEATURES
71 The Faces of Good Health
Four MidSouth health specialists healing hearts and minds through groundbreaking treatment and empathetic bedside manner.
82 Ready, Set… Paleo
Maximize health and boost weight loss with the "Caveman Diet"
84 Ask the Expert: Dr. Ratey
Author of Spark: The Revolutionary New Science of Exercise and the Brain talks about the cognitive benefits of vigorous physical activity
OUT & ABOUT 45 Project Green Fork Lovin' Local Party 47 Art for Hope 48 Holiday Open House at Olive Branch Old Towne 48 Murder at the Mansion 49 Toast to Heal Hearts 50 Cindy's Way: A Tribute to Cindy Lipscomb 52 Kudzu Playhouse’s Inaugural 5K “Drama Dash"
53 Taste of DeSoto Sponsorship Golf Tournament 54 Stars at the Shell 55 Noah’s Gift 5k 56 All Our Friends Hill Country Blues Celebration 57 Puttin’ on the Dogs 58 Bluff City Oktoberfest 59 Run to the Sun
On the cover: Doctor Hunter Rittenberry, Methodist North. Photo by Rupert Yen.
myclickmag.com | JANUARY 2014 3
CONTENTS
JANUARY 2014 • VOLUME 8 NO. 1
24
DEPARTMENTS
15 INTERVIEW Robert Pittman Making Airwaves
18 FOOD Culture, Cusine and Creativity A bold new line of seafood dips from chef Jennifer McCullough
22 MUSIC Battle of the Blues The Ghost Town Blues Band reaches for new heights
24 ARTS+CULTURE Southerners Calling the Shots Photography exhibit shows the Southern experience along the Mississippi Blues Trail
28 BOOKS A Father’s Love Enon, the latest novel from Pulitzer Prize-winning author Paul Harding.
30 DRINK White Winters, White Russians A decadently creamy and frosty drink recipe from Lenora’s in Oxford, Mississippi
33 STYLE Fashion Forecast
30
22
Stay warm in the season’s coolest looks
41 STYLE Style Spotlight: Jessica Russell Five fashionable pieces every woman should own
59 CAUSES A Fresh Alternative to Obesity 4 Rivers Fresh Food, a project aimed at distributing locally grown food in DeSoto County
64 AT HOME Artifacts & Anecdotes With ties to the Civil War, William Faulkner and nearby Ole Miss, this stunning Oxford home offers a heaping helping of history
85 ENTERTAINING Make A Birthday Wish… Put together a one-of-a-kind party with creative ideas from an expert party planner
IN EVERY ISSUE Editor’s Letter 6 Recipe 108 4 JANUARY 2014 | myclickmag.com
Calendar 10 See & Do 96
64
myclickmag.com | JANUARY 2014 5
HALLIE MCKAY
editor’s letter
Looking Forward The start of the new year has many looking back to the past, singling out areas for improvement and resolving to make changes. For some, it may be more time spent at home; for others, it might be losing those extra ten pounds. My resolutions this year are simple: 1. Achieve a level balance of life and work — spending more time at home and leaving work at the office. 2. Finally learn how to cook and eat better. 3. Get more exercise. Unfortunately, my goals have stayed the same for the past three or so years because I never actually accomplish them. Last year, I think my tennis shoes got more use as a chew toy for my lab Charlie than they did running. Today, I’m looking forward. In a profession that requires consistent planning ahead, it’s easy to get lost in the fast pace and not take time to reflect on the good things you were able to achieve. In 2013 Click magazine reached thousands of new readers with increased distribution to the Oxford and Memphis areas; we added tons of new content and an additional staff member to our masthead: managing editor Casey Hilder, whose contributions to the magazine have been innumerable. In this issue, you’ll find features dedicated to overall well-being with profiles of MidSouth medical professionals, news on the latest Paleo diet craze, and a story about one community’s initiative to bring locally grown food straight to its residents. Beyond our annual health features, we have a great interview with native Mississippian Robert Pittman (page 16), co-founder of MTV, former head of AOL and current CEO of Clear Channel Communication. Also, be sure to check out Casey Hilder’s feature on The Ghost Town Blues Band (page 22) as they prepare for the International Blues Challenge in Memphis this month. This issue marks our eighth year in publication covering the people, places and parties of the MidSouth. Our staff has truly enjoyed getting to share all the experiences you see in the pages of Click with our readers and we look forward to even more in the year ahead. Keep Reading,
Editor in Chief
6 JANUARY 2014 | myclickmag.com
Write To Us: Email editor@ myclickmag.com or send us a letter and at Click Magazine P.O. Box 100, Hernando, MS 38632.
CLICK People | Parties | Places Publisher Jonathan Pittman Associate Publisher Angie Pittman Editor in Chief Hallie Mckay Art Director Detric Stanciel
Diamond b r i da l
c o l l e c t i o n
Managing Editor Casey Hilder COPY + FEATURES Copy Chief Tonya Thompson Events Maggie Vinzant events@myclickmag.com Homes & Garden Editor Cara Sievers Cara.Sievers@myclickmag.com Contributing Writers: Casey Hilder, Doug Gillion, Shana Raley-Lusk, M.B. Sellers, Cara Sievers, L. Taylor Smith, Tonya Thompson, Ephraim Tucho Intern: Jennifer Rorie ART & PHOTOGRAPHY Graphic Design Mackenzie Moore Contributing Photographers: Robbin Carnell, Casey Hilder, Sherry Ross, Kristina Saxton, Terry Sweeney, Tonya Thompson, Kandi Tippit ADVERTISING Sales Director Lyla McAlexander lylamc@phpublishingllc.com Jamie Sowell jamie@phpublishingllc.com Melanie Dupree mdupree@desototimestribune.com Jeannette Myers jmyers@phpublishingllc.com Ashley Herbert ashley@phpublishingllc.com
HOW TO REACH US 2445 Hwy 51 South | Hernando, MS 38632 website: myclickmag.com Customer Service/subscriptions: P: 662.429.6397 | F: 662.429.5229
©2013 P.H. Publishing. Click Magazine must give permission for any material contained herein to be reproduced in any manner. Any advertisements published in Click Magazine do not constitute an endorsement of the advertiser’s services or products. Click Magazine is published monthly by P.H. Publishing, LLC.
custom designs at W h o l e s a l e P r i c e s
We buy gold, silver, d i a m o n d s, a n d c o i n s
SUBSCRIPTIONS Call 662.429.6397 or subscribe online at myclickmag.com. Annual subscription rate: $32.95. Click Magazine is published 12 times a year. Postmaster: Send address changes to Click Magazine, 2445 Hwy. 51 South, Hernando, MS 38632. We make every effort to correct factual mistakes and omissions in a timely and candid manner. Information can be forwarded to Hallie McKay; Click Magazine, 2445 Hwy. 51 South, Hernando, MS 38632 or by email to editor@myclickmag.com.
SUBMIT YOUR EVENT Interested in having your next party featured in Click Magazine? Submit your event by going to myclickmag.com or email us at events@Myclickmag.com.
Platinum Jewelers 545 S Perkins Ext Memphis, TN 38117 | 901-680-0020 2200 N Germantown Pkwy Cordova, TN 38016 | 901-387-1005 790 Jordan Rd ste 105 Franklin, TN 37064 | 615-771-9810
myclickmag.com | JANUARY 2014 7
contributors
Hope Newsom
Michelle Jaime
Owners and lead designers of Social Butterflies, LLC, Hope and Newsom have a combined 20 years of experience in the wedding and special events industry. Check out their latest party on page 87, “A Birthday Dinner: Southern hospitality for a true Southern gentleman.” Throw a fabulous birthday dinner with Hope’s expert tips for delicious menus, party decorations and fun entertainment. Together, Hope and Newsom have planned numerous notable events, including celebrity weddings, charity galas and Super Sweet 16s for the hit MTV show. To see more of their work, visit sb-events.com.
JA NU A RY 2014
Doug
Gillon
A graduate of the University of Missouri and native Memphian, Doug Gillon is a freelance writer whose ten-year career includes writing on everything from sports to music to food to Internet comedy. In 2009 Gillon founded his own branding firm, GillonCreative, which specializes in branding, public relations, social media promotions, web and SEO advertising, among other things. In addition to making fantastic promotional creative work, Doug enjoys playing guitar, writing about sports, and constantly continuing his education. Read his interview with Dr. Holger Salazar on page 74 of this month’s issue.
Mary B.
Terry
Sweeney
Photographs from this month’s home feature on page 64 were taken by long-time contributing photographer Terry Sweeney. With a career that spans over twenty years in the MidSouth, Sweeney’s areas of expertise include work for nearly all regional publications, as well as commercial, advertising and architectural photography. Sweeney graduated from the University of Memphis with a BA in Journalism. He is the owner of Sweeney South Commercial Photography, a full-service photography studio in Olive Branch, Miss., which provides creative photographic concepts and solutions to local, regional and national clients.
8 JANUARY 2014 | myclickmag.com
L. Taylor
Smith
Colorado-born writer L. Taylor Smith was drinking coffee by age three, learned to read at age four, and required glasses by age five — all tell-tale signs of a future journalist. This month, Smith reviews Tunica Riverpark’s current exhibit, “My Mississippi Blues Trail” (page 24). When Smith isn't sprinting toward a deadline, she’s working on her next screenplay, watching crime documentaries or thrift shopping for interesting knickknacks. After receiving her bachelor's degree in journalism from the University of Memphis this spring, Smith plans to continue her career as a freelance writer with a specialization in odd features and unique storytelling.
Sellers
In “White Winters, White Russian” (page 30), contributing writer Mary B. Sellers visits Lenora’s in Oxford for a creamy wintertime cocktail. A recent graduate of the Ole Miss Honors College, Sellers currently works for the Oxford-based label, Fat Possum Records, and plans to continue her studies with an MFA program for fiction writing in Fall 2014. Her interests include a love for Sonic breakfast toasters, Wes Anderson, reading, writing and listening to sappy audio books on long car drives. Sellers is also the author of a collection of short stories called The Beautiful Little Fools: A Collection of Fables about Females.
Cara
Sievers
This month’s feature, “Artifacts & Anecdotes” (page 64), was written by Homes & Garden editor Cara Sievers. A freelance writer, editor and consultant for more than 10 years, as well as a trade journalist and magazine editor for nearly seven years, most of her writing background in home and garden comes from real-world practice—decorating personal spaces and spending countless hours studying and reviewing the designs of others. Sievers’ work has appeared in At Home Tennessee magazine and Culture & Leisure, as well as several trade magazines in telecommunications, business, sales and marketing arenas.
hollywood vine
myclickmag.com | JANUARY 2014 9
calendar
SOCIAL AGENDA January 2014 Your monthly resource for what’s happening around town List vent Yevenotsu@mrycE lickmag.com
8-11
2014 ELVIS BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION Graceland Fans gather in January each year to celebrate Elvis' birthday. The special celebration includes dances, an Elvis Insiders Reception, fan club event and more. On January 8, Elvis' birthday, fans gather at Graceland for a special Elvis Birthday Proclamation Ceremony.
9
TH
17
British Arrows Award Preview Party: British Invasion At The Brooks Memphis Brooks Museum of Art Celebrate the best of the U.K.’s advertisements with fish and chips, Irish beer, a Mod Dance Party with DJ Matty Pendleton and more in Memphis. Tickets $30-35. Event time is 7:30 – 9:30 p.m. Call 901.544.6208 or visit brooksmuseum.org.
18 10 JANUARY 2014 | myclickmag.com
14th Annual Crystal Ball The Arena at Southaven Themed “Studio 14,” the gala in Southaven reflects on the glory days of disco and ushers in an era of contemporary dance club hits while honoring several influential members of the community. Tickets $150. Event time is 6 p.m. Call 662.449.5002 or visit crystalballgala.org.
calendar
19
The Mid-South Wedding Show Whispering Woods Hotel and Conference Center Consult with the best wedding professionals the MidSouth has to offer by attending bridal seminars, a bridal fashion show and more in Olive Branch. Event time is 1-5 p.m. Call 901.368.6782 or visit midsouthweddingshow.net
21
21st-25th
26
Staxtacular Stax Museum of American Soul Music The Stax Music Academy will open for local soul music group The Bo-Keys and Percy Wiggins at the ninth annual “Glam Dunk” fundraiser in Memphis hosted by members of the Memphis Grizzlies. Tickets $150. Event time is 7 p.m. Call 901.261.6338 or visit staxmuseum.com.
30th International Blues Challenge Times and Locations Vary Blues musicians from around the world will compete for cash, prizes and industry recognition in the Blues Foundation’s annual talent search. Tickets $50-125. Call 901.527.2583 or visit blues.org.
myclickmag.com | JANUARY 2014 11
calendar
ENTERTAINMENTJanuary 2014 Art
24
Tiempo Libre Buckman Performing and Fine Arts Center at St. Marys School, Memphis 8 p.m.- 9 p.m., Tickets $28 901.537.1483, stmaryschool.org
Through Jan. 5
Ashe to Amen: African Americans and Biblical Imagery Dixon Gallery & Gardens 901.761.5250, dixon.org
Through Jan. 5
Shared Vision: The Sondra Gilman and Celso Gonzalez-Falla Collection of Photography Memphis Brooks Museum of Art 901.544.6200, brooksmuseum.org
Through Jan. 11
23
Chris Knight
Shared Vision: Through Jan. 5 Through Jan. 19
The Way Things Go Memphis Brooks Museum of Art 901.544.6208, brooksmuseum.org
“Recollecting: 1980-2012” Works by Ron Dale
Through Mar. 9
The University of Mississippi Museum $5, Intersection of South 5th and University Ave., Oxford museum.olemiss.edu
Metal Museum Tickets $6, 901.774.6380, metalmuseum.org
Dec. 27 - Jan. 12
Brian Russell: Continuum Dixon Gallery & Gardens 901.761.5250, dixon.org
Through Jan. 12
#MemphisShared Memphis Brooks Museum of Art 901.544.6208, brooksmuseum.org
Tributaries: Andrew Hayes
Music
The Jack Mitchell Collection Gertrude C. Ford Peforming Arts Center, Oxford 662.915.1217, fordcenter.org
Color! American Photography Transformed
16 Buckman Performing and Fine Arts Center at St. Marys School, Memphis Tickets $35, 7 p.m.- 9 p.m. 901.537.1483, stmaryschool.org
17 Proud Larry’s, Oxford 9 p.m., Tickets $10 662.236.0050, proudlarrys.com
24
Cannon Center for the Performing Arts, Memphis 7:30 p.m., 901.537.2525, tickets@memphissymphony.org
Memphis Symphony Orchestra: Elvis Birthday Pops
18
Huey Lewis & The News Gold Strike Casino 8 p.m., Tickets $70-$90 888.747.7711, goldstrikemississippi.com
12 JANUARY 2014 | myclickmag.com
24
Ladysmith Black Mambazo Germantown Performing Arts Center 8 p.m., Tickets $28+ 901.751.7500, gpacweb.com
25
Justin Moore Off the Beaten Path Tour
25
11
Gallery showing. Runs six weeks. DeSoto Arts Council, Hernando 662.404.3361, desotoarts.com
Proud Larry’s, Oxford 9 p.m., Tickets $15-$18 662.236.0050, proudlarrys.com
The Mikado Presented by Opera Memphis at Germantown Performing Arts Center 7:30 p.m., Tickets $33-$74 901.257.3100, operamemphis.org
Dixon Gallery & Gardens 901.761.5250, dixon.org
A Journey Through Art
Turquoise Jeep and Yip Deciever
14-18
Jerry Joseph Solo 19 - Mar. 23
24
Landers Center, Southaven 7 p.m., Tickets $30-$45 662.470.2131, landerscenter.com
An Evening with Molly Ringwald Through March 7
Proud Larry’s, Oxford 9 p.m., Tickets $16-$19 662.236.0050, proudlarrys.com
Jonathan Batiste Germantown Performing Arts Center 8 p.m., Tickets $28+ 901.751.7500, gpacweb.com
31
Big Star Presented by Memphis Symphony Orchestra at New Daisy Theater, Memphis 7:30 p.m., Tickets $25 901.537.2525, opusonememphis.org
31
Jake Bugg with Star & Micey and The Skins 8 p.m., Tickets $15-$18 901.12.6058, minglewoodhall.com
Wicked: Jan. 29 - Feb. 16
Theater 4-5
Shen Yun Cannon Center for the Performing Arts, Memphis 7:30 p.m., Tickets $50-$120 shenyunperformingarts.org
Through Jan. 5
Peter Pan Presented by Playhouse on the Square at Playhouse on the Square, Memphis
Jan. 24 - Feb. 2
The Great Gatsby Presented by Kudzu Playhouse at Hernando Perfoming Arts Center 888.429.7871, kudzuplayers.com
Jan. 24 - Feb. 16
Spamalot Presented by Playhouse on the Square at Playhouse on the Square, Memphis Tickets $15-$40, 901.726.4656, playhouseonthesquare.org
26
Almost, Maine Presented by Playhouse on the Square at TheatreWorks, Memphis Tickets $10-$35, 901.726.4656, playhouseonthesquare.org
Jan.29 - Feb. 16
Wicked The Orpheum Theatre Tickets $43.50-$153.50, 901.525.3000, orpheum-memphis.com
myclickmag.com | JANUARY 2014 13
14 JANUARY 2014 | myclickmag.com
UP FRONT A RT S , C U LT U R E A N D P E R S O NA L I T I E S
people
Robert Pittman Making Airwaves
Current
Interview by CASEY HILDER
myclickmag.com | JANUARY 2014 15
up front
ROBERT PITTMAN HAS HAD A HAND IN nearly every major media milestone of the past 40 years. As current CEO of Clear Channel Communications, former head of AOL and co-founder of MTV, few can deny the prominence of this former small-town Mississippi radio announcer. Next month, Pittman is scheduled to be honored at the 14th annual Crystal Ball Gala, the largest annual fundraiser of the Community Foundation of Northwest Mississippi. Click Magazine: You got your big break in radio at age 15 in Brookhaven, Mississippi. What kind of mindset did you take into the station? Robert Pittman: One of the wonderful things we discover about life is that none of our best laid plans ever come true. Opportunity presents itself in unusual and unexpected ways, we all have to know in our heart what we’d like to do and really just follow the opportunities. Until then, I always wanted to be a doctor and was looking for money to pay for flying lessons. The only job I could find was radio announcer and I really had no interest in the media at the time. But the bug bit me and that really carried me off 16 JANUARY 2014 | myclickmag.com
into a wonderful career in the media business. So in the end, it was a need for money to pay for flying lessons was what drove it all. CM: When you come back home, what’s the first thing you do? RP: When I step off the plane, I go straight for the fried catfish or barbecue. Of course, when I eat all that catfish and barbecue and come home from a weekend in Mississippi, I usually find that I’ve gained about five pounds — but it’s worth it. CM: Have your beginnings in Mississippi, the poorest state in the union, shaped your outlook on business? RP: It certainly has. My dad was a minister there and he spent a lifetime working with those sorts of issues – helping the community and community outreach. My earliest memories are collecting clothes and cans for a local house that had burned down. It was very much a grassroots community-driven effort to help the neighbors. I lived through the civil rights movement, which was a major transition that happened right down here in Mississippi. That definitely influenced my view of what
responsibilities we all should have. However, I will say this; rural poverty is much different from urban poverty. There are different issues and different ways to deal with them. But I do know what correlates with every instance of poverty and that is education. CM: What role would you say philanthropy should play in corporations such as Clear Channel? What kind of social responsibility do you believe a corporation should have? RP: I’d say every person and every company, not just corporations, has a responsibility as a community member to make the community better. I think you often find that all sides have different views of what’s important. For example, Clear Channel has probably donated about $100 million of airtime in our effort to build the Show Your Stripes campaign which, on a local level, helps returning vets who need a job find work with local companies. It’s been hugely successful and, I believe, tremendously important. However, we also deal in areas of poverty, literacy, obesity and other issues that face our country as a whole through the Robin Hood Foundation. When it comes to larger issues facing our country
up front like education, I think there’s more to it than what you can expect the government to do – I think all of us have that responsibility. I would even argue that most private citizens should play that role – those who have should help others. CM: What are your thoughts on the future of terrestrial radio? RP: I think it’s remarkable that out of all the businesses out there based around technology, radio is the one that’s really kept its relationship with the consumers and I think a lot of that is because radio was the original social media. When I was on the radio, we had the request line where people called in and asked for dedications. In the early days, we also had Swap Shop on the air, where people called in to trade toothpicks for a bicycle. I think all of these things have put radio in a good position. And now with digital coming along through iHeartRadio and other products, you can not only listen to us through the FM radio but also online. The opportunities for people keeping radio with them are out there more than ever. In comparison to TV, I think radio isn’t a set group of programs; it’s more of a companion. It’s a very powerful relationship with a lot of responsibilities and I think radio’s done a spectacular job at that so far. I see nothing but good news for radio in the future for both terrestrial and online radio. The two feed each other and that’s good for the business. CM: Do you have any particular radio favorites that you tune into daily? RP: I listen to the morning man in New York City, Elvis Duran, on Z100. Occasionally, I’ll go on iHeartRadio and listen to Ryan Seacrest on the West Coast on our big Los Angeles station, KISS FM. On the weekends, I usually just dial around iHeartRadio and get a good sampling of our stations. The wonderful thing about radio is that if you want to get a good sense of what’s going on in any given city, all you need to do is listen to their radio stations. When I was younger, I would listen to WLS in Chicago and listen to stories of blizzards in the Windy City and all the stars coming to town. I got a little taste of Chicago while living in a small town in rural Mississippi.
CM: How have you personally had to change the way you think about doing business over the years? RP: I think technology has accelerated communication—not just in how we manage businesses, but more importantly, how we keep in touch with customers. It’s gone from a lot of guesswork in the ‘70s to a lot more directed research in the ‘80s and ‘90s; and now, 13 years into the new century, we’re able to get direct contact with our consumers and give them a sort of pipeline right back to us. I don’t think there are many companies out there who don’t want to serve their consumers, but I think it’s hard to know how to do so when you’re sitting in the corporate headquarters. I think social media, email, texting and the Internet can give the customer a lot of information about us and has been very beneficial in serving the consumer better, which is ultimately what every business is about. CM: Are there any current major corporations or business leaders who you hold a particular admiration for their because of their model/methods? RP: There are a lot of corporations that speak for themselves. You look on the tech side at Google and Facebook, who have been leaders in innovation and connecting consumers. In my day, AOL really claimed that role. If you look to the TV business, you’re looking at a transition toward consumers wanting On-Demand viewing and companies responding to those requests. I hope that we’re also seen as one of those companies that are known for high integrity and listening to the consumer well. CM: Any advice to up-and-coming entrepreneurs out there who hope to be the next Robert Pittman? RP: Well, I’m not sure if I’m the person they should model themselves after, but I think if someone out there is trying to get a start, the important thing is to listen to your customer. Also, spend as little money as you have to because you’ll need way more than you thought you would. And you’ve got to be willing to work 24-hour days, seven days a week to bring the passion and commitment to your idea to make it happen. myclickmag.com | JANUARY 2014 17
up front food
Culture, Cuisine and Creativity Chef Jennifer McCullough’s bold new line of seafood dips carves out a niche on local grocery shelves Story and photos by CASEY HILDER
S
Simplicity was the muse for Chef Jennifer McCullough when she crafted her line of five delectable and locally produced seafood dips.“I’m not putting any additional preservatives in the product,” she says. “I’m using croutons and a few premade things that might normally include those, but for the most part, I’m trying to keep it fresh and avoid anything that might affect the flavor or the quality.” This emphasis on subtracting the additives is perfectly espoused by the tagline on every box: “Dip. Crackers. Bottle of wine. Done.” This mother and former school teacher started her culinary journey three years ago after coming to a crossroads in her life. “All I knew after culinary school was working in restaurants,” she says. “I didn’t know there was so much more to the food industry.” Unsatisfied with life in the restaurant industry, McCullough taught elementary school for a few years, all while writing menus and crafting new recipes. Backed by the knowledge gained from a three-year stint at Cooking School of the Rockies in Boulder,
18 JANUARY 2014 | myclickmag.com
Colo., McCullough took up the task of hosting a supper club for friends and family to sample and place orders from her special menu. “She told me she’d sell whatever I made for her, so I brought her 15 quarts of soup,” she says. Nearly four gallons of white chicken chili was the product of the first day of McCullough’s culinary endeavor, prepared within the span of a few hours to maintain freshness. This led to the creation of The Uptown Grocer in 2010, a smallscale operation headed by McCullough and ran from her own home kitchen. “Eventually, it all took off from there and then I had to get some serious licenses. I had a manufacturing permit, and was regulated by the Tennessee Department of Agriculture and the FDA.” McCullough’s first foray into local sales took her to
up front the shelves of several local boutiques and farmers markets, including Palladio Antiques, Miss Cordelia’s and Bluff City Coffee. Fascinated with her latest venture but drained from dozens of hours spent cooking, McCullough began to look into alternative food preparation methods. “I eventually smartened up and looked into foods that freeze well,” she says. “At the end of the day, I realized that the products I was making by myself didn’t make for the best retail products because they were all so labor intensive.” The opportunity for retail sales came
“All I knew after culinary school was working in restaurants.” when McCullough was introduced to a buyer with a local Kroger chain who was familiar with her work and had an interest in her line of products. “I heard that people were calling Kroger and asking for Uptown Grocer products,” she says. “Soon, they offered me a spot in 116 stores across the Delta Division.” The leap to retail shelves presented a unique challenge for the culinary entrepreneur, especially when it came to creating a flagship product. “At first, I didn’t have any competition,” she says. “I was allowed to make what I wanted as long as it tasted good and I was able to charge just what I needed. But I really couldn’t grow that model once I got into a retail environment because the cost is so crucial to operations. I ended up spending a lot of time looking at retailers wondering what was missing.” Meatloaf, enchiladas and chicken casserole were eschewed to produce a focused line of strictly seafood dips with an emphasis on freshness. McCullough says her initial concern was maintaining the integrity and
myclickmag.com | JANUARY 2014 19
up front quality of her previous products, all while ending at a reasonable price point. She says the idea for a line of seafood dips was born from a much lower production cost than stuffing enchiladas or meatloaf, with most of the essential work coming down to simple mixing. The result was several unique and tasty appetizers, including an Herbed Crawfish Dip, Buffalostyle Shrimp Dip and a Southwestern Crab Dip, all of which pair perfectly with a few slices of Melba Toast or Ritz Crackers. Her latest offerings debuted this past November in the form of Thai Firecracker Shrimp Dip and Crab Florentine Spinach Artichoke Dip. After conquering her debut line of products, McCullough hopes to introduce a series of entrées under the Chef Jen brand this spring. “I’m finished with the dips. I have five out now and they’re all very different and perfect for different types of entertaining.”
20 JANUARY 2014 | myclickmag.com
myclickmag.com | JANUARY 2014 21
up front music
Battle of the Blues The Ghost Town Blues Band reaches for new heights at this year’s International Blues Challenge Story and photos by CASEY HILDER
T
The sounds of The Ghost Town Blues Band are among the first to greet the ears of visitors to the Bluff City. On a typical Wednesday night, the sixpiece band can be found performing at Beale Street’s Rum Boogie nightclub, the group’s unofficial home and the place that brought them all together. Frontman Matt Isbell channels the versatility of blues greats like Eddie Burns as he sidles from one end of the stage to the other, interacting with band members while shifting roles between vocals, lead guitar and harmonica. The brass section bounces in tune, with Coleman Garrett’s smooth sax backing the sliding trombone antics of his right-hand man, Suavo Jones. Keyboard player Jeremy Powell sways and smiles in his seat while his Ray Charles-infused grin spreads wider as the set goes on. In the back, bassist Alex Piazza and drummer Preston McEwen provide a backup rhythm in between puffs of cigarettes perched deftly between each of their lips. For The Ghost Town Blues Band, providing a consistent level of energy is paramount. The group aims to maintain the same level of enthusiasm behind their respective instruments whether playing in front of hundreds of festivalgoers or a handful of European tourists. “We meet people from all over the world playing at Rum Boogie. It’s a place where we’ve grown from a trio to a six-piece.“ says Isbell. Now, the six-piece hopes to take their electrically charged sound to the next level in the 29th annual International Blues Challenge, the largest convergence
22 JANUARY 2014 | myclickmag.com
courtesy of M. Powell
of blues bands in the world. More than 200 different acts will descend upon the blues Mecca of Beale Street in Memphis from January 27 to February 3 to rattle the windows of local establishments and deliver the best in solo, duo and group performances. The competition is formed through a collaboration between different blues societies across the world, with Ghost Town Blues Band gaining the Memphis Blues Foundation’s backing for their group act of choice. “If you win that thing, it really changes your career,” Isbell says. “And it’s not just the blues competition. It’s the biggest blues convention that’s out there. You basically get to see all of the talent buyers and the talent that’s out there, even the club owners – it’s a really good network.”
The band threw their hats in the ring last year and, holding true to the title of their latest record, “Dark Horse,” didn’t expect to last long in the competition. However, Isbell and the boys persevered and The Ghost Town Blues Band broke through to the finals. “We came in with the idea of having fun and all of a sudden we were in the finals. We had made it to the top nine blues acts of the whole world,” Isbell says. Florida’s Selwyn Birchwood Band took home last year’s title, which includes prizes, bragging rights and, most importantly, recognition from contemporaries across the globe. Former IBC winners include Tommy Castro, Albert Cummings, Larry Garner and Richard Johnston. Preliminary rounds take place up and down
up front
Hernando Family Medical Clinic 2670 Mcingvale Rd, Suite H & I Hernando, MS 38632 662-429-4988, phone 662-429-4966, fax
Hours: Mon. thru Fri. • 8am-5pm
Walk-ins Welcome!
We accept all insurances, Medicare, Medicaid, MS Cans program.
the Beale Street strip, giving the boys a homefield advantage of sorts. “We basically started our careers working on one end of Beale and moved our way to the other,” Isbell says. Ghost Town began as a trio comprised of Isbell, McEwen and former bassist Dusty Sikes. In true Beale Street fashion, the current members have been playing alongside each other before even knowing the others’ names. For Isbell, the music speaks for itself. “Some nights we’d be playing at Rum Boogie and a guy comes up to the stage with a sax and we’re all ‘Hey, let’s come on, hop on up,’” Isbell says of his introduction to Garrett. With a distinct sound and a rapid call-and-response volley between performers, the band has earned the somewhat dubious classification of “Modern Blues,” standing out against a backdrop of staunch traditionalists. “We kind of get knocked for not being too traditional, but we’re also young,” he says. “Our band is all from Memphis except for our bass player, who happens to be from New Orleans. I like to say that we bridge the gap between Memphis and New Orleans for the best in River-music blues. We’re a little bit funky like New Orleans but we’ve still got that Delta sound that you’d ex-
pect from a group that comes from Memphis or anywhere in-between” But “modern” doesn’t imply slick or sleek. The instruments are still clavichord, and, like all great blues, their sound is still best heard in a bar over bourbon. There’s a little delay or wahwah in some tunes, but seasoned strummers like Albert King wouldn’t argue with that. “What makes it new and fresh is our approach, I guess,” Isbell says. “When we do take older songs like ‘Messin’ With the Kid’ by Junior Wells, we try our best to make it fresh and give it a new, syncopated feel. If we do covers, we definitely give them a little Memphis feel, but there’s not a whole lot of thought put into it.” With half a dozen unique musicians from varying backgrounds, the group prefers the push semantics of to the side and leave the judging to the ears of the listener. “There’s a lot to look at and it’s a nice, lush, filled-out sound,” Isbell says. “Everyone likes to see a horn section, especially when tourists come to town. Also, we don’t play Mustang Sally. In fact, it’s a $100 tip if you want us to do that and you can believe it’ll be better than any Mustang Sally cover you’ve ever heard.”
Health 1st Family medical clinic
131 Hwy 309 S Byhalia, MS 38611 662-838-5565, phone 662-838-4770, fax
Hours: Monday thru Friday 8am-5pm
Walk-ins Welcome!
We accept all insurances, Medicare, Medicaid, MS Cans program.
myclickmag.com | JANUARY 2014 23
up front Arts
Southerners Call the Shots A new photography exhibit shows the Southern experience along the Mississippi Blues Trail Story by L. TAYLOR SMITH
D
Dusty sunsets, a church in need of faithful feet and the smiles of Southerners soaking up summer take center stage in a new photography exhibit titled "My Mississippi Blues Trail" at the Tunica RiverPark and Museum. More than 170 historical markers make up the Mississippi Blues Trail, which stretches from the Gulf Coast to Memphis, Tenn. Scott Blake, owner and creative director of Design 500, chose the photographers and selected which photos made it into the exhibit. Each photo is a window into a photographer's personal experience traveling down the trail, according to Blake."We specialize in museums that interpret the Southern experience. This is just one more layer of that for me. I personally knew a few of the artists who were selected; then, other members in the Delta arts community suggested other photographers." The signs mark important locations in blues history and Blake believes those who come to admire the photos can experience the richness of the trail, whether they've lived in the MidSouth their entire life or they're just visitors passing through. "It's not just historical landmarks along the side of the road. There's a whole life and history that comes from this trip." Blake handpicked eight photographers from across the MidSouth to contribute to
24 JANUARY 2014 | myclickmag.com
the exhibit this year, each with a distinct style and eye. "Most of them are hobbyist photographers, all people who just really enjoy doing photography. For many, it had a lot more to do with composition and light, and some of the other
photographers were much more focused on capturing the soul of the moment." A magenta-haired man clad in a babypink suit, with a microphone in one hand and a handkerchief in the other, is one of Blake's favorite photos. "That one really
up front
moved me because it has this feeling of being completely staged. It looks like the colors have been punched up but that's not been enhanced at all." While some photographers like Monty Shane, graphic designer for Design 500, and Willy Bearden, a Memphis-based filmmaker, chose to hone in on the decaying architecture of the Delta, others like Keegan Ward focused on the candid moments that transpired on a June road trip. One
myclickmag.com | JANUARY 2014 25
up front photo captured by Ward, a sophomore graphic design student at the University of Memphis, features a beaming Blake as he shares a beer with two gentlemen they met one Sunday morning.Blake laughs, remembering how he spied the two men sitting outside while most of Mississippi was sitting in the pews. "I saw them and I said, 'Pull over, I want to get a photo with these guys.'" He wanted Ward to contribute to the exhibit because he wanted a fresh look of the trail. "There are certain things that people automatically photograph and I kind of wanted a different look at things."Ward, one of the youngest photographers featured in the exhibit, says photography has been a hobby he's had since high school, so he was eager to be involved with the project when Blake approached him. "We wanted to document the 'photojourney' in a postcard fashion, exhibiting so many aspects found down the Mississippi Blues Trail. Scott, Denver, and I made several stops along the way, but my favorite series of photos is from the helicopter." One of the snapshots from the 8-minute helicopter ride offers a bank-to-bank view of the churning waters of the Mighty Mississippi. Another gives a birds-eye view of Tunica's Gold Strike Casino as the sun sets behind it. "I truly hope the guests who get to see this exhibit also share the closeness we felt with the people and the history of the Mississippi Blues," Ward says. The exhibit will be open for at least six months and Blake hopes to repeat the show every year. For more information about the Tunica RiverPark and Museum, visit tunicariverpark.com. 26 JANUARY 2014 | myclickmag.com
myclickmag.com | JANUARY 2014 27
up front books
A Father’s Love A heart-wrenching and introspective tale of love and loss, Enon is the latest novel from Pulitzer Prize-winning author Paul Harding Review by SHANA RALEY-LUSK
M
“Most men in my family make widows of their wives and orphans of their children. I am the exception,” begins the main character of Paul Harding’s latest novel Enon. An intricately woven tale of of tragedy, anguish and grief, Enon tells the story of Charlie Crosby as he tries desperately and futilely to work through the most difficult time in his life. It chronicles his sadness in acute detail as well as his downward spiral into a heartbreaking life of solitude and, ultimately, addiction. Named for the small New England town in which it is set, Enon is the inwardly-focused monologue of one man’s journey through a life-altering experience. As the book opens, we find Charlie recounting the day that his beloved teenage daughter, Kate, lost her life in a tragic accident. He remembers in detail that he had wanted her to spend the day with him instead, but that she had asked him to join her friend at the beach. It is a conversation that Charlie will never be able to forget and one that will ring in his head for years to come. The book examines the depth and complexity of parental love as well as the difficult journey of grief within a family. Ultimately, Charlie loses so much more than his daughter, but his odyssey is truly about his struggles against himself and the possibility of finding peace once more. Charlie remembers in detail his excitement during his wife Susan’s pregnancy with their daughter. He flashes back to an evening during that time and recalls in great detail the conversation they shared. “I touched her stomach through her maternity blouse. ‘Who are you in there?’ I asked. ‘I’m your dad,’ I said. ‘Me and your mom can’t wait to meet you and see who you are and find out what you’re like.’ Susan took my hand from her stomach and kissed it,” Harding writes. Charlie’s intense eagerness to meet his unborn child in this memory is tragically paralleled by his intense suffering when he loses her thirteen years later. After the untimely loss of their child, Charlie and Susan soon part ways and he is left to his solitude and to his own inward-searching thoughts. His depression and lack of any true support system eventually lead to abuse of drugs and alcohol, all of which ends him in a life of isolation and ongoing self-reflection and regret. Enon is not a feel-good novel that leaves readers with warm and fuzzy feelings by any stretch of the imagination. But it is one of great value and importance, nonetheless, and does so in such
28 JANUARY 2014 | myclickmag.com
beautiful prose. It explores in depth one of the most important human experiences, which is grief. It is a journey that we all must take at some point. Charlie’s story is one of how grief and loss can be the unraveling of a person if great care is not taken. At the same time, Enon is about more than sadness and loss, too though. It is, in some ways, more focused on love and human connectedness than anything else. This father’s unconditional and limitless love for his child eclipses every other good thing in his life once it is lost. His journey in this world is forever changed and his life impacted in far-reaching ways because of losing his cherished daughter. While sad in one respect, this novel is a reminder to readers of what is truly important above all else in a human life. Paul Harding’s writing style and talent for descriptive writing have been compared to that of the great William Faulkner and this book certainly does not disappoint in that respect. In regards to his depiction of the surrounding of his character, Harding definitely does his reputation justice in that he truly brings the environment to life. Readers will feel that they have been to New England and experienced the town of Enon after finishing this novel. A Pulitzer Prize-winning author, Harding is known for his mesmerizing debut novel Tinkers as well as his richly descriptive and captivating writing style. Charlie is, in fact, the grandson of the protagonist from Tinkers and both books are set in the same small town. A pensive story of love, family, introspection and loss, Enon is a thought-provoking and beautifully crafted tale.
Click Magazine
Wedding THE
ISSUE
YOUR WEDDING IN THE PAGES OF CLICK MAGAZINE
You said yes? Love it. Share it. Submit it. Submission Deadline is December 30. Visit MyClickMag.com for Complete Details.
C
oming February 2014, Click magazine presents our third annual “I Do” issue.
N O W I S T HE T I M E T O B UY
RAT ES MAY CONT I NUE T O RI S E Mortgage interest rates have remained low for quite some time, but that will eventually change. Now may by the perfect time to refinance your current home or purchase a new home.
Call us today to find out what your options are! ANTHONY ATKINS Senior Loan Officer
901-230-8575
aatkins@primelending.com NMLS: 53652
RON COLE
Senior Loan Officer
901-2404480
rcole@primelending.com NMLS: 180558
DONNA RIGSBY
Senior Loan Officer Specializing in USDA Loans
901-238-8619
drigsby@primelending.com NMLS: 101930
662-548-2191
6880 Cobblestone Blvd, Ste 1 Southaven, MS 38671 All loans subject to credit approval. Rates and fees subject to change. Mortgage financing provided by PrimeLending, a PlainsCapital Company. Equal Housing Lender. © 2013 PrimeLending, a PlainsCapital Company. PrimeLending, a PlainsCapital Company (NMLS: 13649) is a wholly owned subsidiary of a state-chartered bank and is an exempt lender in MS. V070213.
Featuring over a dozen fabulous Southern weddings from couples across the MidSouth, Click’s wedding issue is one not
to be missed! Be sure to reserve your space in the February issue today. Visit myclickmag.com or contact the office for more information.
Issue Highlights:
• Real Southern weddings from couples across the MidSouth • Easy and affordable DIY details • Style for the bride, the groom, and the entire wedding party • Expert tips and advice for planning the perfect wedding • The best local vendors
SH chamber
Say “ I Do” with Click Magazine myclickmag.com | JANUARY 2014 29
up front drinks
White Winters, White Russians
A decadently creamy and frosty drink recipe from Lenora’s in Oxford Story by M.B. SELLERS Photos by CASEY HILDER
J
Just north of the Oxford Square, you can find Lenora’s, a graceful little joint whose reputation precedes it. You’re surprised, pushing through the glass door, to find a narrow hallway that opens up into a large, pleasantly-lit room complete with cozy, pillowed wall seats, à la "Arabian Nights" and a snazzy bar, boasting every liqueur, wine and spirit you’d ever need. It’s an exotic, fine sort of atmosphere that warrants a well-dressed staff, elegant simplicity and exemplary table manners. Lenora’s is all about good food and good times. It’s a popular place for family dinners and the go-to venue for dinner parties. It’s not surprising to find it booked for the night for Christmas parties, sorority and fraternity events and other social gatherings. There’s an easy, refined quality to this place that’s grounded in its Mediterranean-based food that still holds true to its Southern roots. Whit Hamilton, a bartender at Lenora's, is ever ready to make their special White Russian, even as the restaurant is busy with preparation for the evening’s events. The sweet elixir is the perfect winter-time drink, although the Dude would surely argue that it's good anytime of the year.
30 JANUARY 2014 | myclickmag.com
Originating from the Black Russian, popular in the early 1950’s, the drink morphed into its better-known white cousin in the mid-sixties with the addition of cream. “It didn’t see any real jump in popularity until the '70s. It’s American in origin as far as I can tell, and is only called a Russian because the base liquor is vodka,” says Hamilton.
" Times like these call for a Big Lebowski." The White Russian has enjoyed its own cult following, courtesy of its well-known status as a favorite of the casual protagonist of "The Big Lebowski." It’s as drinkable as the film is quotable. Even more, Lenora’s makes them special with their substitution of Bailey's Irish Cream in the place of milk or heavy cream. “It definitely adds a different flavor to it. It’s a little sweeter in the long run,” he explains. “There are a ton of variations, though, and apparently the Irish cream version is known as the Blind Russian since its only ingredients are liquor.” Lenora’s has been crafting their White
Russian this way ever since Hamilton can remember. “Cream-based drinks are throwbacks to the old cocktails — to when they first started coming out. People began drinking not just straight spirits; a lot of the early cocktails had raw egg or some sort of milk or cream substitute.” Their special ingredient isn’t a secret. Most people come here for the White Russian because of the Bailey's, and the drink’s resulting unique
up front flavor. Hamilton also likes to add a pinch of fresh cinnamon and nutmeg to his White Russians, a trick he learned from Brandon McCaleb of Greenwood, Miss. “The vanilla vodka we use makes a world of difference, and I like to turn it once. To me, they just taste like the holidays.” Hamilton should be considered an authority in these affairs. He's been working in restaurants since he was 12 years old. “My dad had a restaurant when I was very young — The Cotton Factor — and I pretty much worked every position I could in that restaurant.” Growing up in Greenwood, Miss., he was raised around fantastic food. He’s also a self-taught bartender. “I’ve never taken courses. I think bartending school is a sham in most cases. I worked for several years for Giardiana's and the Viking Range Hospitality. I then moved to Athens, Ga., for six years and worked for several other bars, including a Speakeasy, a fantastic cocktail and tapas joint. Then I returned to Oxford, where I worked for Snackbar, and now for Lenora’s.”
LENORA’S WHITE RUSSIAN: Ingredients: Vanilla Vodka, Kahlua and Baileys 2 parts Vanilla Vodka 2 parts Kahlua 1 part Baileys Turn once Pinch of nutmeg and cinnamon Directions: 1. Fill glass with shaved ice 2. Individually add 2 ounces of Stoli Vanilla, 2 ounces Kahlua, 1 ounce of Bailey's Irish Cream 3. Add a pinch of grated fresh nutmeg and cinnamon 4. Turn once in a shaker and garnish with nutmeg/cinnamon mixture. myclickmag.com | JANUARY 2014 31
Like us on
info.psphotography@gmail.com
Voted Best Hair Salon in Desoto County - Desoto Times Tribune 662.470.5275 | www.studiowestsalon.net 476 Church Rd. East, (at Elmore Rd.) Southaven, MS
32 JANUARY 2014 | myclickmag.com
Church
Elmore
• Haircuts & Color Services • Keratin Treatments • Sahag Haircuts • Facial Waxing
ays Airw
Offering a Variety of Services ~ Walk-ins Welcome, Appointments Preferred
N
STYLE
N E W S, T R E N D S A N D T H I N G S T O W E A R
Scarf
$26, Blue Olive
Earrings $12, The Ivory Closet
Jacket $130, Chocolat at La Maison
Boots $79, Keepsakes by Melony
myclickmag.com | JANUARY 2014 33
fashion
COLD COMFORTS
The coats, sweaters and extra-cozy layers to keep you warm this month. Sweater $126 Hollywood & Vine
women’s
Fashion
Earrings $26, The Ivory Closet
Vest $40, Keepsakes by Melony
Scarf $40, Cynthia's Boutique
Sweater $68, The Attic
Scarf $20, Paisley Pineapple
Jacket Sugar Plum Consignments
Shirt $30, Paisley Pineapple Jeans $84, Ivory Closet
Pants $72 The Attic
Necklace $25, The Attic
Pants $92, Janie Rose Purse $132, Cynthia's Boutique
Purse $345, Blue Olive
Clutch $20, Keepsakes by Melony
Shoes $49, Blue Olive
Boots $69, Paisley Pineapple
Boots $110, Paisley Pineapple 34 JANUARY 2014 | myclickmag.com
fashion Earrings $50, Chocolat Vest $88, Janie Rose Consignments
Earrings $29, The Ivory Closet
Jacket $88, Hollywood & Vine
Shirt $110, Chocolat Consignments
Necklace $39, Sugar Plum Consignments
Bracelet $4, Sugar Plum Consignments
Necklace $40, Chocolat
Necklace $59, Chocolat at La Maison
Vest $40, Keepsakes by Melony
Pants $92, Janie Rose
Dress $25, Keepsakes by Melony Shirt $34, Janie Rose
Bracelet $28, The Attic
Purse $54, Chocolat at La Maison Boots $198, Cynthia's Boutique
Pants $40, Sugar Plum
Booties $64, Blue Olive
myclickmag.com | JANUARY 2014 35
fashion women’s
Fashion
Necklace $40, Chocolat at La Maison
Jacket $75, The Attic
Sweater $56, The Ivory Closet
Jacket $17, Sugar Plum Consignments
Necklace $7, Sugar Plum Consignments
Necklace $15, Sugar Plum Consignments
Shirt $98 Hollywood & Vine Dress $38, Sugar Plum Consignments
Clutch $98, Sugar Plum Consignments
Black Top $34, Janie Rose
Pants $40, Sugar Plum Cosignments Leggings $28, The Ivory Closet
Bracelet $15, The Attic
Purse $149, Keepsakes by Melony Purse $49, Keepsakes by Melony
Boots $198, Cynthia's Boutique
Boots $69, Paisley Pineapple
36 JANUARY 2014 | myclickmag.com
fashion
A WINTER PICK-ME-UP
Purse $28, The Attic
Handbag $87, Chocolat at La Maison
Purse $89, The Ivory Closet
Handbag $87, Chocolat at La Maison
myclickmag.com | JANUARY 2014 37
fashion men's
Fashion
Sweater Jack Spade
Sweater $89, The Attic
Shirt $85, The Attic
Jeans $99, The Attic
Scarf $20, The Attic Pants $75, The Attic
38 JANUARY 2014 | myclickmag.com
Shop the Issue The Attic
2121 Madison Ave. Memphis, 901.628.9599
Blue Olive Shop
210 E Commerce St., Hernando, 662.449.1520
Chocolat at La Maison
4768 Poplar Ave., Memphis 901.537.0009 chocolatatlamaison.com
Cynthia’s Boutique
2559 Caffey St. Hernando, 662.469.9026
Hollywood & Vine
5960 Getwell Rd., Ste. 112, Southaven 901.496.9949 shophollywoodandvine.com
Ivory Closet
103 Harbor Town Square, Memphis 901.527.9538, ivorycloset.com
Janie Rose Boutique
5627 Getwell Rd. Ste. A10, Southaven 662.510.5577, janieroseboutique.com
Keepsakes by Melony 2070 Clifton Rd. Hernando, 662.429.7029
Paisley Pineapple
6515 Goodman Rd. #2 Olive Branch 662.895.2111, Paisleypineapple.net
Sugar Plum Consignments
6100Rose Primacy Pkwy., Memphis Models: Turner and Allie Woodson Photography:901.763.7799 Rupert Yen, Yen Studios Styling: sugarplumconsign.com Michael Lopez and Hallie McKay Makeup: Dominique Chaney Hair: Katie Ropper and Caroline Hurst, Great Lengths Hair Salon myclickmag.com | JANUARY 2014 39
j cox
heavenly sunshine
40 JANUARY 2014 | myclickmag.com
fashion
people
Style Spotlight: Jessica Russell Fashion pro Jessica Russell gives expert style advice for building the ultimate wardrobe
A
Story by HALLIE MCKAY Photos by CASEY HILDER
At her core, Jessica Russell is a design and fashion enthusiast. “It’s all I really saw myself doing. Growing up, I loved clothes, helping people feel beautiful and just being around fashion,” she says. After earning a degree in fashion merchandising from the University of Memphis, she landed the “opportunity of a lifetime” working with friend and business owner Gail Ellis of Janie Rose Boutique — a women’s wear shop located in Southaven, Mississippi. Five years later, she is happily running the store with Ellis, curating the recently expanded Janie Rose boutique and traveling to markets throughout the country to help customers find that perfect outfit. Inspired by the fashions she sees on TV and Pinterest, Russell also ranks the personal style of her friends, co-workers and Janie Rose customers as top sources for finding new looks. “As a buyer, it’s important to not fill the store with the same thing, it has to be versatile. At market, I try to pick out what I like and what I would wear, but sometimes you have to step out of that box and think of what someone might want that I
necessarily wouldn’t wear.” Her advice for perfecting a look: “Confidence. If you are not confident and comfortable in what you are wearing, it will be written all over your face. When you're confident, everyone will believe what you’re wearing is amazing.” When it comes to her own personal style, Russell is something of a mix-master—a woman whose look changes depending on her mood and isn’t defined by one go-to fashion. She’s just as comfortable in a pair of jeans as she is wearing bold, colorful prints, heels and over-the-top accessories. “My style has definitely changed since becoming a mom, but that doesn’t mean I don’t enjoy getting dressed up in something fun or finding unique pieces to wear. I always want to have on something that pops and is different. I’ll never give up my shredded Rocker-Tees, super flare jeans and heels, no matter how many kids I have!” What really makes Russell a stand out is her ability to put things together. Here, she gives five essentials for every woman’s wardrobe. myclickmag.com | JANUARY 2014 41
fashion
Five Style Essentials Every Woman Should Own
1. A Bold Accessory A purse, scarf or piece of jewelry in a bold color or print can completely transform an outfit. It’s a cheap and easy way to transform any old, boring top or dress. 2.A Perfect Pair of Jeans Wide-leg jeans are my go-to piece any time of the year. There is something fabulous about feeling 6 feet tall (I'm only 5'4") in a pair of slimming, wide-leg jeans and a tall heel. 3. A Versatile Scarf It's just another way to turn a boring outfit into a wow outfit. 4. Boots They look great on everyone and with every outfit. We have tons of colors in the store. I wear mine out so much that I have to get a new pair every year. 5. The Classic Black Blazer Make sure the fit is perfect. They go with everything, especially when an event is dressy-casual. Jeans and a blazer always work.
42 JANUARY 2014 | myclickmag.com
magnolia heights
myclickmag.com | JANUARY 2014 43
DR. BRIAN BAGWELL
NICOLE PAYNE, FNP
DR. JULIE CARPENTER
JERRY C. MCLARTY, FNP
CASEY NESTER, FNP
DR. ROBERT L. SKINNER
TRACEY L. MAYS, FNP
BEVERLY P. WEAVER, FNP
EXTENDED HOURS = MORE OPTIONS At Family Medical Clinic of North Mississippi, our board certified physicians and experienced nurse practitioners provide the best possible care from minor injuries to more complicated medical conditions.
MONDAY - THURSDAY | 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM FRIDAY | 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
(662) 890-5555
3451 GOODMAN ROAD, SUITE 115 | SOUTHAVEN, MS 38672 | WWW.FMCNMS.COM
OUT&ABOUT A RO U N D T OW N O N E PA RT Y AT A T I M E
Project Green Fork
Loving Local Party
P Jason Brandon and Funlola Coker
roject Green Fork hosted 300 attendees at the fourth annual Loving Local party at Wiseacre Brewing Co. on October 26. The event raised $15,000 for Project Green Fork while bringing awareness to local businesses. Attendees could dine on delicious food from Charlie Vergos’ Rendezvous, Fuel Café, Muddy’s Bake Shop and more while enjoying live music by country band Dead Soldiers. Guests could also take part in silent and live auctions featuring items from locally owned businesses. Photos by CASEY HILDER
parties
Kevin and Sarah Nowlin, Margot McNeeley Cayce Densford and Kelly Stewart
Greg Davis and Bryant Malone
Craig Blondis and Russ Williams
Sarah Kyle and Beth Nelson
Margot McNeeley and The Dead Soldiers 46 JANUARY 2014 | myclickmag.com
parties 4th Annual
Art For Hope
T Katie Jenkins and Lauren Schorr
hree hundred people attended the 12th annual Art for Hope fundraiser at the Opera Memphis Center on November 7. While browsing work from 35 local artists, guests enjoyed a variety of delicious entrees courtesy of Heart and Soul Catering. The artists’ work was also available for purchase and a portion of the proceeds were donated to Hope House. The art exhibition raised $10,000 to benefit the charity. Photos by CASEY HILDER
Jennifer and Russell Church
Cassie Alley, Rena Chiozza and Brandon Ticer
Katie Pohlman and Matt Cozart
Ken Lecco, Courtney and Dana Richardson
Sandy Talley, Cat Williams
Erin Hillis and Jaredan Braal
Steve B
eene myclickmag.com | JANUARY 2014 47
parties
Holiday Open House
Olive Branch Old Towne
S
DeeDee Erfurdt & Jusy Berryhill Olive Branch Florist
Barbara Liles Maria Jordoning Carole Hunting Old Towne Antiques & Upholstery
cores of DeSoto County citizens attended the Christmas Open House on November 9 at Olive Branch's Old Towne district. The shops of Pigeon Roost Plaza offered discounts and refreshments to those looking to wrap up their shopping early this past holiday season. Participating stores include Olive Branch Florist, Old Towne Bakery and Wray's Fins & Feathers. Photos by KRISTINA SAXTON
Lisa Trimm & Karleigh Moore
Kathy Hudspeth & Dalton Cooper
Murder At The Mansion
Mike Morris, Stacye Rawlings Mike Morris, Stacye Rawlings
M Nicolas Kleiderer, Adrienne Lay
urder mystery enthusiasts from across the MidSouth convened at the Banks House on November 2 to help solve a murder at the mansion. Presented by the Desoto Arts Council, Polter-Heist told the tale of a couple who bought the mansion with inherited money. When the couple brought in a ghost hunters convention, the murders began. This year, two guests figured out “who-dunnit� and each won a family membership for a year to the Desoto Arts Council. Fillin Station Grille prepared an exclusive selection for the amateur detectives, including pasta salad, crawfish dip and homemade chips, fried shrimp and teriyaki chicken kabobs. Photos by SHERRY ROSS Fran Stockham, Lisa Beene
Chip Johnson, Betty Pruit, Amy Lay
48 JANUARY 2014 | myclickmag.com
parties Lilly and Sara Whitton Atwood
Sherry Hodgson & Anna Howell
Purchase Pics atom g.c myclickma
Marcie & Brad Stewart; Lisa Beene
Daniel Stanphill & Andrew Caldwell
Anna Price & RoyeAnnMorris
Melissa & Rick Bateman; Andy & Susan Peterson
Toast To Heal Hearts
A
round 200 people attended the second annual Toast to Heal Hearts at the Banks House in Hernando on November 1. Grapevine Liquor and Wine and Boscos Restaurant and Brewing Co. provided drinks for the wine and beer tasting event, which raised $15,000 for the Healing Hearts Child Advocacy Center. Attendees were able to dine on delicious food from Mesquite Chop House while enjoying live music from Mississippi folk band Dandy and the Lions. Photos by KANDI TIPPIT Jerry & Tracie Morris; Brandan Lawton & Kayla DeSutter
myclickmag.com | JANUARY 2014 49
parties
Cindy’s Way
A Tribute to Cindy Lipscomb DeSoto Family Theatre Benefit
D
eSoto Family Theatre; country singer Steve Azar; and this year’s Miss Mississippi, Chelsea Rick, came together to host the event “Cindy’s Way” at the Landers Center on November 11.The dinner and auction paid tribute to Cindy Lipscomb, co-founder of what came to be known at DeSoto Family Theatre. Around 250 people enjoyed performances from past shows, including Annie, Les Miserables and The Sound of Music. Silent and live auction items were available, with items ranging from beautiful jewelry to backstage tours at a Broadway show. The event raised more than $30,000 for DeSoto Family Theatre. Photos by KRISTENA SAXTON
Steve Azar & Chelsea Rick Miss Missisissippi 2013
Mayor Chip Johnson & Sunny Stuckey
Jessie Anne Lipscomb
50 JANUARY 2014 | myclickmag.com
parties
Dan Layman
Dr Greg Lawrence and Elizabeth Lawrence
myclickmag.com | JANUARY 2014 51
parties Macey Everett, Ellie Sartor
Mens Best Times
Alex Reinhardt, Madison Cleveland
Hannah Hindman, Brie Leacer
Brittany Kutz, Lexie Lang, Carter Rice
Kidzu Playhouse’s
“Drama Dash”
P
articipants of all ages attended Kidzu Playhouse’s first annual 5K Drama Dash in downtown Hernando on September 28. After the runners returned, cast members from the playhouse’s last production, Willy Wonka, performed several songs including “The Candy Man.” The inaugural event raised $1,591 to go toward funding playhouse programs, including theatre training workshops, summer theatre arts camps and one Kidzu production each season.
Photos by SHERRY ROSS Ashley & Chaz Joyner, Micah Benson
52 JANUARY 2014 | myclickmag.com
Joyce Mize, Martha Icenberger
parties
2013 Taste of DeSoto Sponsorship Golf Tournament
T
aste of DeSoto held its tenth annual sponsorship appreciation golf tournament and dinner at North Creek Golf Course on October 24. This invitation-only event attracted 52 golfers and another 18 people to a dinner that evening catered by two previous Taste of DeSoto winners, First Choice Catering and Scotty’s Smokehouse. At the event, it was announced that Taste of DeSoto would be funding a $10,500 endowment at Northwest Mississippi Community College for the promotion of the culinary arts in the Hotel/Restaurant Management Department. Taste of Desoto will also be donating to House of Grace and HeartLand Hands after the 2014 food-tasting event. Photos by KRISTENA SAXTON
First Choice Catering Leslie Culburn, John Kelly Woods, Gary Vaughn & Donkey Boudreau
Kyle Ellis
Donkey Boudreau & Eeyore
Thurston Wilson & Tom Michael
NW Mississippi Community College Kyle Ellis Matt Sellers Mike Rowan & Dr Gary Spears
Performance Food Service Kenny Roper, Brett Lawson, David Ruff & Dave McCarthy
myclickmag.com | JANUARY 2014 53
parties
Stars at the Shell
M
ore than 1,600 people gathered at the Levitt Shell on October 12 to see music legends Patty Griffin, Mavis Staples and Buddy and Jim in concert. The annual Stars at the Shell event was the venue’s only ticketed event of the year, and raised $109,000 from ticket sales and sponsorships to fund the more than 50 free concerts hosted each summer season.
Ethan Wallace, Gina Bailey, Robyn Rhodes, Barry Lichterman and Harry Goldsmith
Photos by CASEY HILDER Sarah and Scott Newstok
Megan Scmitt and Ashley Cubbins
Ruth Savage, Susan Shedden, Robin Gosnell, Ellen Schmaltz, Patti Huton
Noah’s Gift 5K
M Lexi & Suzanne Lang
54 JANUARY 2014 | myclickmag.com
ore than 200 people participated in the third annual Noah’s Gift Memorial 5K on October 26. After the 5K, attendees could participate in the “challenge games” and climb a rock wall, take a fitness challenge, play slap shot with a former RiverKings member and more. The event raised more than $15,000 for the fund and four grants were given out that day. The recipients received funds to travel to Costa Rica to study eco-diversity, go backcountry snowboarding in Colorado, help restore a 1973 Ford F100 truck and attend a football camp held by the Tennessee Titans. The winner of this year’s art contest was also awarded a scholarship to attend a summer art camp. Photos by SHERRY ROSS
parties
All Our Friends Hill Country Blues Celebration
H Mississippi Blues Trail Marker Dedication
istory and music buffs across Tate and Panola counties took part in the All Our Friends Hill Country Blues Celebration hosted by the Senatobia and Emily J. Pointer public libraries from October 5-12. Attendees revisited Tate County’s origins through music, photographs, interviews and more from the Alan Lomax Archive. Guests could listen to noted folklorist George Mitchell’s talk or could explore his photography exhibit, and the Napoleon Strickland Mississippi Blues Trail marker was dedicated. Countless hill country musicians performed throughout the week, as well as gave lessons in music and instrument making.
Photos by ROBBIN CARNELL
Samuel Strickland Boone
Otha Evans, Arletha Evans and Betty Turner.
Reverend John Wilkins
George Mitchell (Folklorist) myclickmag.com | JANUARY 2014 55
parties
Silent Auction
Davanna Jared and Thornton David
Puttin’ on the Dogs
T
Catherine Wark, Linda Deane, Julia Williams, Ruth Weaver, and Elizabeth Brock
Sandy Williams and Mario Chiozza
he Tunica Humane Society hosted the first-ever “Puttin’ on the Dogs” fundraising event at Theatre Memphis on September 28. Around 300 dog lovers came out to support the Tunica Humane Society and place bids on silent and live auction items, including a trip to Lake Austin Spa Resort in Austin, Texas. Guests could also get their photographs taken on the red carpet.
Bluff City Oktoberfest
B
Terry and Rhonda Gower
Deborah Clarke and Christy McFarland
More than 2,500 attended the first annual Bluff City Oktoberfest starting on October 4. The two-day event was free to all, but guests were encouraged to make small donations of cash or canned goods. The event raised $1,500 to benefit Samaritan Counseling Centers of the Mid-South, and collected 120 pounds of food for the Mid-South Food Bank and 50 coats for News Channel 3’s “Coats for Kids.” Attendees enjoyed performances from almost a dozen bluegrass musicians and a beer garden complete with high-end and exotic beers from around the country. Photos by CASEY HILDER
Tiffany Kosta and Bowser
Nikko Aleman and Maya Peel 56 JANUARY 2014 | myclickmag.com
parties Ginger and Jena Heard
Run to the Sun Marla Stone and Justin Coker
Kill, Baby, Kill!!!
T
he Memphis Mummies Café Racer Club, a local vintage motorcycling organization, hosted its 4th annual ‘Run to the Sun’ on October 25th and 26th, raising more than $3,000 for Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital. The event featured a morning motorcycle ride through Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park followed by a tour of Sun Studios and an all-day concert at Murphy’s Pub, with performances by Pezz; the River City Tanlines; Dan the Man; and Kill, Baby… Kill!!! Awards were given for the best motorcycles in several classes and participants were able to register for raffle prizes, including Fulmer helmets, shirts and motorcycle parts. Photos by TONYA THOMPSON
Philip and Susan Prichard
Randall 'Snake' Wheeler, David Beaman, Rita Pfiefer, Cissy Braslow, Clay Gott and Mark Zellner
Steve Stonebrink myclickmag.com | JANUARY 2014 57
Send me 1 year for only $32. NAME
(PLEASE PRINT)
ADDRESS
Subscribe!
CITY/STATE/ZIP
PHONE
EMAIL PAYMENT ENCLOSED (MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE TO PH. PUBLISHING)
CLIC
PLEASE CHARGE MY CARD
KM AG AZIN E
January
2013
PEO PLE | PA R TIES | PLA CES
15
• MASTERCARD . VISA • AMERICAN EXPRESS • DISCOVER
tips HE for
JAN UAR Y 2013
LTH LIVAIN Y G
LIV
V O L.
WELLE
7 N O. 1
T HEA HE OF RT MATTTHE ER DR. AR
IE SZA TKOWS
12/20
/12
58 JANUARY 2014 | myclickmag.com
KI
9:18
PM
CARD NUMBER AUTHORIZED SIGNATURE
EXP. DATE
MAIL TO: CLICK MAGAZINE • PO BOX 100 • HERNANDO, MS 38632
causes causes
A Fresh Alternative to Obesity One initiative’s effort to build a healthier community through locally grown produce Story by TONYA THOMPSON
T
The Mississippi Delta has some of the most fertile topsoil in the world. In simpler times, the lush, productive farmlands surrounding everyday regional commutes to work and home would translate into a healthy surrounding community — a community that thrives and develops off of its own natural resources.Instead, the reality is much less idyllic, as the MidSouth fights rates of obesity, heart disease and stroke that are among the highest in the nation. It’s a sobering statistic that a local nonprofit hopes to change. “Food insecurity is usually related to poverty,” says Tom Pittman, President of the Community Foundation of Northwest Mississippi and board member of 4Rivers Fresh Food, a project aimed at aggregating, distributing and marketing locally grown food. “Poor people tend to buy less expensive food, and less expensive food tends be to higher in calories and lower in nutritional value, causing obesity.” Despite having the best soil on earth, less than 1 percent of cropland acreage in Mississippi is used to harvest fruits and vegetables, according to a report released by the University of Mississippi’s McLean Institute for Public Service and Community Engagement. What those restrictions mean for the greater Delta
community is that access to fresh, local produce is limited. In fact, studies have shown that Mississippi has markedly lower rates of fruit and vegetable consumption among adults than the rest of the nation. Combine that with poverty and the transportation barriers across networks of small, widely separated towns — especially along the Delta — and it’s easy to see why fast food restaurants, gas stations and barbecue stands become standard fare for many low-income households in the region. “Eating a diet enhanced by fresh local produce that has not been picked while still green, shipped for miles and artificially ripened is a true privilege,” says Pittman. But as privilege implies denied access, the 4Rivers Fresh Foods project seeks to turn the tables and simply focus on a dual goal of bringing local farmers and local families together, regardless of economic limitations. In fact, anyone is welcome to participate in the distribution program. “We have just been approved to accept EBT cards and SNAP benefits,” says Pittman.
“So absolutely anyone can get one of our bags of fresh foods on a weekly basis." With a cost of $10 to join and less than $30 per month to participate, and an ever-expanding distribution network to cover the region, 4Rivers Fresh Foods is setting out to do something that could
"Eating a diet enhanced by fresh local produce that has not been paicked while still green, shipped for miles and artificially ripened is a true privilege.” change the trajectory of health and wellbeing in the Mississippi Delta for a long time to come.
myclickmag.com | JANUARY 2014 59
causes
Hernando Mayor Chip Johnson poses with a package of produce courtesy of 4Rivers.
The produce and dairy that go through 4Rivers’ distribution process is some of the most healthful, nutritious food available in the world. It was grown or farmed in rich, fertile Delta soil, and the farmers who are part of the program are thoroughly vetted to make sure the produce they supply is grown locally. Some of those farmers, like Michael Hawks of Homestead Farms and Wild Goose Gardens, have even started fall gardens to extend the availability of 4Rivers Fresh Foods’ produce into the early winter. Produce available from Dickey Farms and Woodson Ridge also adds seasonal variety to the selection. Yet, growing and obtaining the food is only half the battle. “We have been aided immensely in our startup by businesses partnering with us,” says Pittman. Chris Lee at Red Square Meat & Fish Market allows 4Rivers Fresh Foods to use his shop’s location at 427 East Commerce Street in Hernando to pack bags and distribute them; the bags that are packed are provided by Stern Cardiovascular Clinic. On Dec. 17, Steve Beene at the Fillin Station Grille hosted the first annual Farm-to-Table Dinner to promote eating locally grown foods, and throughout the year, Desoto Athletic Club on Goodman Road is a pickup point for the project’s Southaven and Olive Branch subscribers. With plans to become a sepa-
60 JANUARY 2014 | myclickmag.com
causes
rate nonprofit entity within the next year, 4Rivers Fresh Foods is in need of many things: steady customers, a regular supply of fresh food for those customers, farmers contributing locally grown produce and products, volunteers who might do anything from pack bags to post updates on social media, commercial refrigerators and freezers, and a refrigerated truck. 4Rivers can effectively use monetary contributions, volunteers and equipment, as well as customers and producers. “I have contacted other area
“We have been aided immensely in our startup by businesses partnering with us.” farmers,” says Pittman. “I plan to extend my relationships with any who farm with good agricultural practices to provide the best local produce to our area. As our membership grows, more farmers will benefit by this additional outlet for their goods.” Whether a grower or potential subscriber, to learn more about 4Rivers Fresh Foods, email Margaret Yates at 4rivers@cfnm.org or call at 901.326.1627. To learn more about the Community Foundation of Northwest Mississippi and its many projects to strengthen the communities of North Mississippi and the Delta, go to cfnm. org or call 662.449.5002.
myclickmag.com | JANUARY 2014 61
62 JANUARY 2014 | myclickmag.com
myclickmag.com | JANUARY 2014 63
at home
ARTIFACTS &
ANECDOTES With ties to the Civil War, William Faulkner and nearby Ole Miss, this stunning Oxford home offers a healthy helping of history. Story by CARA SIEVERS Photography by TERRY SWEENEY
64 JANUARY 2014 | myclickmag.com
at home This grand postbellum home serves as a historic and recognizable cornerstone of University Avenue in Oxford.
T
his grand home has more than a few stories. If these walls could talk, they would tell you of historic battles, literary genius, football fandom and lovefilled family gatherings. The postbellum treasure, which sits atop a hill on University Avenue in the heart of Oxford, Mississippi, was built by Andrew Jackson Baker in 1878 after the Civil War came to an end. Baker was a captain in Company A of the 11th Mississippi infantry of the Confederate army, otherwise known as the "University Greys" because the group was made up of University of Mississippi students. Baker led his troop into Gettysburg, where they suffered 100 percent casualty; all soldiers were either injured or killed. Baker was captured and wounded there, and eventually retired in Oxford after the war to build this home. Baker didn't stay in the home long, but its storied past continued when it came into the hands of Elma Meek, a former student of University of Mississippi who is credited with dubbing the school, "Ole Miss," in a contest to name
myclickmag.com | JANUARY 2014 65
at home
Above: A large gold mirror, which was in the home when the Dotys purchased it, was renovated by Brown's Frame Shop; and the renovation of the mirror with utmost attention to detail took just a long and the renovation of the rest of the house. Bottom Right: In the living room, a table is made from the capitals of columns from the homeowner's old church in Crystal Springs, Miss. 66 JANUARY 2014 | myclickmag.com
at home
“It would have been easier to buy a new house, but we love the location and we love this house.” -Beth Doty
the university's yearbook in 1897. The home is now casually referred to as "The Elma Meek House" because of her famous ties to the school, because she lived here for quite some time and ran a boarding house. However, most would argue that one of her tenants was slightly more famous than she. Nobel Prize laureate and premier Southern author William Faulkner lived in The Elma Meek House with his wife in the 1920s. Within these walls, he authored As I Lay Dying and “A Rose for Emily," two of the writer's most lauded works. Many visitors take a moment to bask in what might be left of the presence of such an important literary figure. (In fact, the homeowners have preserved all of Faulkner's bathroom fixtures in the upstairs guest bath.) The history of the home continued to evolve as it changed hands over the years, eventually going to the Duvalls, who owned a well-known dress shop in town; and then to its current owners, Beth and Richard Doty, who bought the home in 1999. Beth and Richard both studied at Ole Miss, moved to Jackson, met and married, and moved back to Oxford in 1985. They lived in a small Victorian house down the street from The Elma Meek House with their two children, Laura and Graham, who also eventually both attended Ole Miss.
The Dotys had just completed plans to add on to their Victorian home when they were serendipitously invited to consider purchasing the home that they had been in love with for several years. Although their son, age 11 at the time, was a little nervous about the ghosts that could exist in such a historic home, they signed on the dotted line and immediately began renovations. By the time the Dotys had moved in, significant improvements and restorations had taken place. With the help of local contractor Joel Little, the Dotys added central heat and air, configured four full baths and two
half baths, redid all of the plumbing, and upgraded all of the lighting and molding. One significant task was clearing all of the gallant transom windows that crowned the passages from room to room in the house— they had been painted over for privacy when the home was used as a boarding house, but now they let light circulate through the tall ceilings of the first floor. "It would have been easier to buy a new house, but we love the location and we love this house," said Beth Doty about the renovation. "It has been a blessing to raise our family in a home and a town with such love, tradition and history." myclickmag.com | JANUARY 2014 67
at home
The custom-made bed in the master bedroom is what's known as a George Washington bed. Taking inspiration from a Louisiana plantation home, builder Adam Gwin from Natchez constructed this beauty for Richard to give to Beth as a gift.
Doty spends much of her time in the kitchen area, as she loves to cook and entertain, especially during football weekends. The kitchen and keeping room are entirely reconfigured from existing space, and the previous kitchen is now used as a butler's pantry. The gourmet kitchen boasts beautiful cherry cabinetry by Paul Wilburn from Grenada, Mississippi, along with sleek, stainless steel Viking appliances. Next to the kitchen is a cozy keeping room with an eclectic art collection and a conveniently hidden television. French doors surrounding the area open up onto two separate porches—one of which becomes party central on game day, enabling the family to cram about a hundred Ole Miss fans in the area for tailgating. The adjoining dining room is adorned in a regal, red-striped wallpaper and luxurious silk draperies, both of which were selected upon advisement by interior designer Sara Lovelace. With a touch of neoclassicism, the decor invokes an air of formality, but also gives a nod to the significant history of the home. In fact, the humble, yet gorgeous, lighted China cabinet in the corner of the dining room is but one of the home's original architectural features retained to serve its intended purpose. Another feature that seems to take you back in time are the original windows in
68 JANUARY 2014 | myclickmag.com
The custom-made bed in the master bedroom is what's known as a George Washington bed. Taking inspiration from a Louisiana plantation home, builder Adam Gwin from Natchez constructed this beauty for Richard to give to Beth as a gift.
the living room and study on the front of the house. These tall windows open all the way up to allow anyone to walk easily out onto the porch. It's simple to imagine Captain Baker enjoying a chat with a friend and a glass of tea on the spacious veranda while watching passers-by head down the street into town.
In total, there are more than 8,000 square feet of space in this four-bedroom home. From the vaulted ceilings to the heart-ofpine floors, the house is full of intricate details and enchanting stories ... its timeless beauty perhaps even serving as inspiration to a young writer you might have heard of once or twice.
For Sale by Owner - Builder’s Personal House Priced Well Below Cost at $775,000 Approx 7,000 heated sq. ft located in Hernando | Serious, qualified inquires only! 901.409.0788 • Custom built by Lifestyle Homes, LLC 1 0 7 4 T h o u s a n d O a k s D r i v e , S u i t e 1 • H e r n a n d o, M S 3 8 6 3 2 P h o n e : 6 6 2 - 4 2 9 - 2 3 3 2 • Fa x : 6 6 2 - 4 2 9 - 0 8 8 1 | E m a i l : h o m e s @ L i f e s t y l e H o m e s M s. c o m
www.LifestyleHomesMs.com
*USDA Rural Housing
myclickmag.com | JANUARY 2014 69
Are you looking for a place to host your next corporate event? Impress your guests at
• Business Meetings • Corporate Picnics • Company Parties • Team Building • Retreats Ask about our special corporate rates! Spitfire Acres is a 5.5+ acre retreat and botanical garden in the heart of Southaven, Mississippi comprised of over 9,000 sq. feet of interior/exterior entertainment areas. Our meeting/dining area doubles as an art gallery featuring original artwork by local artists. The property is a very secluded oasis located in the middle of the city. We offer a variety of services which include catering, photography, live music, disc jockey or karaoke, tent rentals, table and chair rentals, custom cakes and many others.
SpitfireAcres.com
By appointment
662.536.3905
events@spitfireacres.com 5198 Tchulahoma Road Southaven, MS • 38671
70 JANUARY 2014 | myclickmag.com
feature
The Faces of
Good Health Four MidSouth health specialists healing hearts and minds through groundbreaking treatment and empathetic Deck Willmanner. Go Here bedside
myclickmag.com | JANUARY 2014 71
feature
Hunter
Rittenberry Methodist North
Story by CASEY HILDER
Q
uick thinking and an eye for detail are crucial elements on the resume of Dr. Hunter Rittenberry, an Emergency Room Physician at Methodist North Hospital. “Every day is different. It’s not like working clinic days and seeing the same patients over and over again,” he says. “It’s definitely at a faster pace and more stressful. You never know what might come through the door.” The Middle Tennessee native migrated to Memphis seeking a job with a bit more variety than a typical family doctor. For Rittenberry, finding out the intricacies of what’s going on in patients is the highlight of his job. Aided by an array of X rays, CT scans and ultrasounds to assist in diagnosis, Rittenberry is often the first and last line of defense for patients when things take a turn for the worst. “I take that information gained from those tools and I tell someone what they need to do to improve their health,” Rittenberry says. “About 25 percent of the patients I see end up being admitted to a room upstairs for further treatment.” With such a strict regimen, time management is an important skill for the staff of Methodist North. In a hospital stocked with 45 beds in constant rotation, Rittenberry sees as many as 5,000 patients a year. “It’s all kind of a blur after 13 years of that,” he says. “I sometimes work 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., or sometimes they switch it up and I’m working the opposite. It’s not very good for the sleeping habits but I wouldn’t have it any other way.” Most of the issues Rittenberry deals with relate to heart attacks, stroke and
72 JANUARY 2014 | myclickmag.com
“We help to break down the information for patients and family in a way they can understand.”
feature abdominal pain, while severe trauma incidents are directed to the Regional Medical Center, though he’s seen his fair share of injured patients. “Every now and then we have someone who gets shot and thrown in the back of a car and we have to deal with it,” he says. “We work to stabilize them and eventually transfer them to The MED.” His duties can vary between 12-hour shifts — from treating wounds to provid-
wouldn’t be my choice to see my mother in the ICU, but we leave that decision up to the patients’ families. We want them to know that we’re doing all we can down here.” In addition, Rittenberry prepares patients for life-changing scenarios by printing off a comprehensive diagnosis and detailing the best and worst possible scenarios. “Half of what I do is social,” he says. “Communicating with the patient,
a light cough and it turns out to be cancer. You try not to say it right away but in the back of your head, you know. It’s the toughest news to deliver and there’s not really a good way to do it.” Many times, it’s simply phrasing things in a way that can easily be understood by the layman or relating a similar experience from his 13 years as a specialist. “Sometimes, I try to personalize the experience for patients,” he says. “My fa-
ing patients with a brief moment of comfort or understanding of their affliction. “The worst things are gunshot and stab wounds,” he says. “But they’re not incredibly common here—you always keep the zebra in the back of your mind—common things are common, uncommon things aren’t.” Patient-physician relations have made strides at Methodist in recent years, even going so far as to allow a degree of family observance in the ER. “A while back, a mother was having CPR performed and the family chose to watch,” he says. “It
telling them things and explaining — making them feel like they have a grasp on what’s going on. As fast as things happen down here and despite the fact that we don’t have endless amounts of time, with the time we do spend, we want to make them feel like we gave a damn.” For Rittenberry, this and breaking the news of an inevitable loss are the toughest parts of his job. “It’s rough, particularly when someone’s family member dies en route to the hospital on board the ambulance and there wasn’t a lot we could do,” he says. “Or when they come in for
ther passed away from lung cancer when I was younger and that’s something I really notice and talk to my patients about.” While he didn’t always plan to become a doctor, his path took him from working for a small-town drugstore as an undergrad at UT Knoxville to a lengthy career in the medical field. Ambitions to become a pharmacist eventually coalesced into dreams of being a professional healer. “I love the job I do but it wasn’t quite a childhood dream,” he says. “I kind of fell into it over the years and haven’t looked back since.” myclickmag.com | JANUARY 2014 73
feature
Holger Salazar Stern Cardiovascular Story by DOUG GILLON
I
n 2005, gunfire nearly ended Dr. Holger Salazar’s American dream. The place was Tulane University Hospital, a few days after hurricane Katrina famously broke the New Orleans levees. With no power, the hospital’s pharmacy was an attractive target for looters, who began a dayslong gun battle with hospital police. Inside, Salazar tried to ignore the gunfire, maintain his sanity, keep his wife and young son safe and keep his patients alive.“We could hear the gunshots all the time;” Salazar remembers. “And I couldn’t just stay with [my family] all the time, I had patients to take care of, so I just told them to stay away from the windows and stay in one place.” Fortunately, life isn’t always so stressful for the 47-year-old cardiologist. Salazar now works at the swanky Stern Cardiovascular Center in Germantown, a place traditionally devoid of looters and gunfire. The Ecuadorian-born doctor is lean but not lanky, rigid but not stiff. His collected demeanor, professorial attention to detail and South American accent give his speech the rhythmic regularity of a healthy heartbeat. The consistent rhythm belies the severity of his situation as he describes the incidents surrounding the devastation of Hurricane Katrina.“I remember it clearly,” he says. “I was on call so I had to go into the hospital and, of course, stay in the hospital. I had my son and my wife, already had tickets for them so they could leave but she didn’t want to leave.” He repeats the last sentence. “She… didn’t WANT to leave.” Salazar’s wife and son went to the grocery store for supplies, and then came to the hospital to hunker down until the hurricane arrived the next morning. When that did happen, the early results looked promising. “Nothing really seemed to be happening,” he remembers of the storm itself.
74 JANUARY 2014 | myclickmag.com
feature “There were some winds but they were not bad winds; there were some windows that appeared to be broken in some buildings in the surrounding areas, but nothing else than that. Then all of a sudden, everything was gone and everybody was happy and no problems.” On the day of Katrina, at least for Tulane, there were no problems. That changed quickly though. “Monday night, and I was awoken around probably three in the morning by another physician saying that we have to meet,” Salazar says.“At that point, we were told that the levees broke and it was a matter of time before the city was going to be flooded. So we have to organize our patients for evacuation at that point.” For nearly 48 hours, the hospital retained most of its functionality. Every one of the more than 300 patients and family members, along with 50-plus staff and family members, were eating three meals a day. Tests could be run; patients’ progress, input and output checked; and temperatures controlled. However, the tone quickly shifted when flooding drowned the power.Indoor temperatures spiked to more than 100 degrees. Hydrating patients of varying needs became a guessing game — that is, when potable water could be found. IVs, EKGs, X-rays, lab work and pretty much every mechanical test were now unavailable. The doctors and nurses were left with only the bare essentials — their physical exam skills — to evaluate and treat patients. And for this, Salazar was uniquely qualified. In Ecuador, Salazar’s medical programs stressed physical evaluations because the medical schools and hospitals in that county did not have the same “infrastructure” as modern facilities. The fourth year of Ecuadorian medical school is almost entirely devoted to physical examinations, and it was during this year that Salazar was taught by one Dr. Guarderas, who he calls “probably the best teacher I have ever had.” Guarderas was known to be tough. Students who made academic mistakes were punished with weekend shifts supervising interns. At least, that’s what Salazar thinks — he says he was never punished. Guarderas taught Salazar the importance of knowledge, observation and communication in a physical exam. He also inspired Salazar to become a cardiologist.“Ever since I was six, I knew I wanted to be a doctor or a soccer player,” Salazar says. “But I didn’t know which kind of doctor.” His fourth year fixed that. Every week, Guarderas would assign a part of the body to a student;that student would give a detailed presentation on the subject, including anatomy, embryology and biochemistry, to the class before the professor would speak. Salazar was assigned the heart and that presentation inspired a career. In New Orleans, with no power, no instruments and a battle raging outside, the lessons of fourth-year medical school became more prominent than ever.Without powered IVs or labs to monitor the patients’ blood, a keen eye and feel for physical
examination was required. For patients with potassium issues, Salazar and the nurses would monitor the amount of sweat coming from a patient, on both the skin and the bed, and use that to make an estimate for a dose. As long as the pharmacy stayed protected, most stable patients were kept that way. It was a tough situation but Salazar is no stranger to difficult odds.. Early in his training in Ecuador, Salazar decided he would study in the United States.“Everyone told me I was crazy,” he says. “Not many people had done it before, and no one around me really knew how to do it, but I knew the United States had the best training. Everyone around the world, if you ask them about the best medical training, will say the United States. I had to train here.” The road was not easy. Salazar used a top-class placement in Ecuador to earn himself a five-year cardiology residency in Madrid. While in Spain, he used his nights and weekends to study for the appropriate boards and exams required for acceptance in the US. And accepted he was. He completed a three-year internship and residency at New York Medical College and was recognized as the top resident in his third year. From there, he worked through a cardiology fellowship at Tulane and an advanced cardiac imaging fellowship at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation. He then returned to Tulane in 2003, this time as a professor. And that led into Katrina. The storm had come on Monday morning. The power went out Tuesday night. While adaptive physical evaluations were sufficient for most patients, some, particularly those with ventricular assist devices — a type of artificial heart — would need a more creative solution. The heart pumps needed power or the patients would die. One was just two years old. Using a barely-alive cell phone and some American ingenuity, Salazar and his team were able to keep the devices functional using diesel generators. It would hold for a few days, and that proved to be enough. On Thursday, the helicopters finally came. After the patients from Tulane and nearby Charity hospital were evacuated, Salazar, his wife and his young son boarded a helicopter and escaped the city. Describing the moment, Salazar remained characteristically level.“That was probably the best time of the last two or three days,” he says. “While there were a lot of shots being fired outside and people making a lot of comments that hospital police may not be able to hold out for much longer. So it was a relief. It was one of the best moments of the four days that I was there.” After escaping, Salazar landed in Memphis. Within a week, he had interviewed at Stern, and after a few months of going back and forth between Memphis and New Orleans, Stern is where he settled. Now, he specialized in patients rather than research, in lifestyle and diet rather than danger. And it suits him just fine.“I’m happy with what I did,” he says. “Will I do it again? The answer is ‘yes I think I will.’ But would I like to go back to an academic setting right now? The answer is ‘no, I’m happy right here.’” myclickmag.com | JANUARY 2014 75
feature
Shawna Grissom St. Jude
Story by CASEY HILDER
A
s she walked through the brightly colored hallways of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital for the first time, Shawna Grissom realized, like so many others, that there was something special about the place. “I was probably here for about two hours before I realized this was different from any place I had ever been,” she says. “There was a very warm, welcoming feeling and the culture felt very different.” The 37-year-old healthcare specialist, who would soon become St. Jude’s Director of Child Life, was so taken by the atmosphere surrounding St. Jude that she would pack her bags and move from Nashville, Tenn., to Memphis, where she would begin the arduous yet rewarding task of forging a connection with young people and coaching them through the most difficult periods of their lives. As a Child Life Specialist, Grissom works to usher patients and family through the lengthy treatment process, which entails understanding the diagnosis and treatment of a particular form of cancer. She works with children and young adults who may need help coping with the hospital experience during treatment and afterwards. “Children who come here have either been told something very stressful or are about to hear something very stressful,” she says. “We help to break down the information for patients and family in a way they can understand.” Most of the patients at St. Jude are treated through a combination of chemotherapy, radiation and surgery. Grissom works to prepare nervous patients through the use of sensory-based coaching methods that focus on what the surgical equipment look like, what it smells like and how cold or hot the equipment might feel. While this seems like a small part of the overall St. Jude experience, Grissom says that knowing what to expect works wonders in ensuring patient comfort. “I remember sitting in a doctor’s office before a checkup making up stories about how it’s 10 times worse than it actually is,” she says. “Well, with kids it can be about 100 times worse.” If St. Jude is a school, Grissom can be seen as equal parts of coach and counselor. Grissom’s individualized approach to patient education entails a myriad of methods to prepare for the trials ahead. Because her patients are divided by age and developmental level, this can mean anything from bringing in teaching dolls, medical equipment, anatomy manuals or iPad presentations to better understand what will happen in the months ahead. She also works to build coping skills through relaxation techniques like guided imagery or meditative breathing exercis-
76 JANUARY 2014 | myclickmag.com
es. “We’re teaching them about the diagnosis, as well as preparing them for obstacles they might encounter in the future,” she says. And when a young life is put on hold due to a chronic illness, she is among the first specialists that a family meets. While treatment is a necessity in these situations, Grissom and the staff at St. Jude believe that’s no reason to miss major milestones in life. “We don’t miss birthdays. We don’t miss prom. We don’t miss holidays, either,” Grissom says. “Santa Claus knows these guys are here.” This mindset is perfectly apparent during St. Jude’s annual formal in April. The event is like any other prom in the United States; girls choose their dresses and guys pick out a tuxedo before being transported via limousine to the St. Jude Pavilion for a unique procession surrounded by peers. “There are pictures, food, dancing — everything you would expect at a prom,” she says. Grissom recalls one story in particular that stood out of a young woman who checked her prosthetic leg at the door. “She must’ve decided to go without it for the night. The girl’s father came in to check and he started bugging her about the leg and she shouts
feature
‘No! Take my leg, I don’t need it right now,’ as she was cutting up on the dance floor and doing wheelies in her prom dress.” For Grissom, that’s what her job is all about. Through a combination of empathetic treatment and life coaching, the girl was able to normalize her environment and momentarily cast off the weighty shackles of cancer treatment to live life as an ordinary teenager. And St. Jude provides
feature
this all free of charge, with no family ever seeing a hospital bill. The hospital’s primary operating cost of $1.8 million a day is funded largely through public contributions. Due in large part to the efforts of St. Jude staff, overall survival rates of various forms of childhood cancer have risen nearly 60 percent since the hospital opened its doors in 1962.
myclickmag.com | JANUARY 2014 77
feature
Mike Neel OrthoMemphis
Story by CASEY HILDER
A
s Memphis’ foremost orthopedic oncologist, Dr. Mike Neel has pioneered changes in a myriad of procedures that were once guaranteed to end in amputation. Neel specializes in limb salvation and the diagnosis and treatment of various kinds of bone cancer. Through his treatment and research, he has saved countless lives and limbs in the battle against osteosarcoma and other forms of malignant bone growth. Neel’s role as one of less than 150 orthopedic oncologists in the country attracts patients in need of highly specialized care. With the aid of a team of nurse practitioners, he has divided his time as an orthopedic specialist between OrthoMemphis and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital for 19 years. “It’s about a 50/50 split,” Neel says. “It’s a challenge, but I have a lot of people to help me bridge the two worlds.” Neel’s work alongside 16 other specialists at the OrthoMemphis clinic in East Memphis consists of surgical procedures to remove malignant bone tumors, while avoiding amputation in the process. Limb-sparing procedures at this location are often performed on adults seeking total hip and knee replacements, as well as those with oncological issues such as metastatic tumors associated with other forms of cancer that may have spread to the skeletal system. “With adults, the orthopedic problems
78 JANUARY 2014 | myclickmag.com
are usually secondary to their primary cancer,” he says. “We see a lot of patients with other forms of cancer, where it has spread to the bone.” While much of Neel’s work at OrthoMemphis focuses on adult reconstructive surgery, his time at St. Jude is spent developing new and innovative surgical techniques and methods of treatment for younger patients. At St. Jude, Neel deals with the removal of malignant tumors, as well as the application of various prostheses and management of complications associated with leukemia and subsequent chemotherapy. In adolescents, the problem usually begins within the musculoskeletal system in the form of malignant tumors caused by osteosarcoma, the most frequently contracted form of bone cancer in the United States. Neel’s research also deals with Ewing’s Sarcoma, another form of bone cancer that primarily affects the arms and legs. Both are especially prevalent in younger cancer patients. Aside from the research and obvious age discrepancy in patients, Neel’s job at St. Jude carries a few added bonuses. “I tend to get more hugs from the kids, I think,” he says. Neel’s other duties include treating bone lesions and making strides to shape larger invasive surgeries into smaller, more manageable procedures with less lingering trauma. However,
simple pain management is often key for the day-to-day rigors of treatment. “Sometimes, you’re doing nothing more than making the patient comfortable,” he says. In 2005, Neel performed a first-of-itskind surgery involving the implementation of the bone transport rod, a hightech tool that eschews the traditional bone-graft method in lieu of a stateof-the-art metal rod. This procedure is unique in that it allows for a patient’s prosthesis to grow along with them by moving the tumor along the bone and
feature adjusting by centimeters as it scales to a patient’s exact height. “We’re able to move the defect down the bone – like a napkin ring – and new bone is filled in behind it,” Neel says. Patients return periodically for a noninvasive lengthening procedure. This provides newly formed native bone that adapts to a patient much easier and presents a safer, less invasive alternative to traditional bone grafts. The recipient, a young osteosarcoma sufferer, eventually made a complete recovery. “Right now, he’s back to lifting weights, jumping rope and doing everything he wants as an 18-year-old kid,” Neel says. Stories like this have become the hallmarks of Neel’s career. A native Memphian and father of two, the University of Tennessee graduate is familiar with the characteristics that make a superior surgeon. “The most important quality is somewhere between compassion and energy – nobody goes into this business without a healthy dose of both,” says Neel. Pain management with a focus on comfort seems to be the central theme of OrthoMemphis, which provides a variety of services in addition to Neel’s oncological offerings, including treatment of the spine, hand, foot and athletic injuries. “We’re big enough to provide a lot of services, but small enough to have a lot of professional interaction among the different surgeons,” Neel says.
myclickmag.com | JANUARY 2014 79
80 JANUARY 2014 | myclickmag.com
feature feature
READY, SET … PALEO! How eating the ‘Caveman Diet’ can maximize health and boost weight loss
T
The Paleo diet isn’t as pretentious as it sounds — just ask Fred Flintstone. Paleo is short for “Paleolithic,” like the Paleolithic era, a prehistoric period of human history better known as the Stone Age. The Paleo diet, or the “caveman diet,” is based on the foods that primitive hunter-gatherer societies feasted on, like lean meat, nuts and berries. The idea is to eat like the human body was engineered to eat, without the influence of modern food principles.
Story by LINDSEY ROMAIN
“It’s not really a diet per se, but rather a lifetime program of eating to maximize health and well-being,” says Loren Cordain, one of the creators of the Paleo diet and author of The Paleo Diet: Lose Weight and Get Healthy Eating the Foods You Were Designed to Eat (Wiley, 2010). The Paleo diet nixes dairy, grains and legumes in favor of fresh fruit; vegetables; and lean, grass-fed meat. Cordain—along with other scientists, anthropologists and physicians — studied the diets of 229
hunter-gatherer societies from around the world and mimicked the food categories those groups consumed with foods available at the supermarket. The vitamin- and mineral-rich diet is said to help maintain diabetes and lower high blood pressure. It’s also an effective method for sustainable weight loss. The absence of dairy and whole grains has put the Paleo diet on the bad list of some dieticians and medical associations, but according to Robb Wolf, myclickmag.com | JANUARY 2014 81
aut h o r of "The Paleo Solution—The Original Human Diet" (Victory Belt Publishing, 2010) and host of the hit podcast of the same name, whole grains can actually create significant health and digestive issues. The Paleo diet, he says, is a low-inflammatory solution to overall health improvement, from weight loss to disease. “People say ‘well, we’ve eaten grains for thousands of years,’ and I’ll say ‘yeah, we have, but we also haven’t eaten them for millions of years,’” Wolf says. Cordain also notes the negative side effects of a grain-heavy diet, referencing celiac disease and gluten intolerance as an indication that our bodies have difficulty processing high-fiber breads and pastas. “Whole grains are implicated in a variety of autoimmune diseases other than celiac, and when consumed excessively, promote vitamin deficiency diseases, such as pellagra, beri beri, iron and zinc deficiencies,” Cordain says. There’s also the fact that, according to a 2009 Gallup Poll, a quarter of Americans don’t believe in evolution. For a diet based on evolutionary principles, it may sound like a hard sell, but according to Wolf, the Paleo diet is more popular than ever. His podcast is in the top four in the health category on iTunes, and he says he’s noticed social trends that indicate a growing interest in the Paleo lifestyle. “The information that we’re giving to people is very effective and very easy to implement,” says Wolf. For people accustomed to ice
82 JANUARY 2014 | myclickmag.com
cream a n d p i z z a , a diet like the Paleo could seem too difficult to maintain. But for those interested in making the transition, Wolf suggests starting with a 30-day restrictive phase of eating on strict Paleo guidelines: no dairy; no grains; but plenty of high-protein, lean meats and leafy greens. After the 30 days are up, go back to “normal” eating. He’s sure you’ll notice a difference. “A lot of people are shocked and surprised by how much better they feel when they get into it,” says Wolf. “And this way, they can really figure out what is the appropriate amount for them to do or not do.” Some who participate in the 30day intervention decide to continue with a strict Paleo diet, while others borrow the idea but adapt it to their regular eating habits, so they eat about 80 percent Paleo and 20 percent non-Paleo. Sarah Fragoso began with the 30-day approach, which she says changed her life. After the birth of her third child, she admits that she was at a personal low in regards to health and fitness. Through Wolf, a friend of hers who she met at a Relay for Life event, she decided to try out the month-long method as a means to lose the baby weight and start feeling good again. “I was not just losing weight, but my entire perspective on life was changing,” Fragoso says. “I felt so much better mentally and physically.” Fragoso is now the author of "Everyday Paleo" (Victory Belt Publishing, 2011), a national bestseller about the diet, complete with recipes and lifestyle advice. She works as a trainer in the gym Wolf co-owns and has successfully transitioned her family to the Paleo lifestyle in the process. Her approach is to see
“It’s not really a diet per se, but rather a lifetime program of eating to maximize health and well-being.” Paleo as a positive adventure rather than a cruel restriction. She says the results have been remarkable. “One of my sons had eczema and it was gone within months. And the baby, who was pretty much raised on Paleo since birth, never had an ear infection and was never sick.” While some may worry that a diet rich in grass-fed meat and fresh produce is too pricey, especially for large families, Wolf says it’s really as easy as eating eggs for breakfast, fruit and nuts for snacks, chicken salads for lunch and other veggies and lean produce for dinner. There is no need to get fancy, although Paleo-specific items like almond flour, raw crackers and snack bars are also available. The best part about Paleo: it’s a lifestyle to which anyone can adapt. Cordain advises that pregnant women and children should slightly lower their protein intake, but apart from that, there are no limitations to the shift from everyday eating to a caveman-friendly menu. “People assume that people who eat Paleo are hunting squirrels in the backyard,” Fragoso says. “But that’s not true. I’m more aware of where my food comes from, and I’m more conscious of eating food that is locally sourced. In the end, this is just a more sustainable way of living.”
feature GETTING STARTED You’re ready to go Paleo… but what comes next? Those unfamiliar might not know how to maneuver a shopping cart to the Paleofriendly aisles in the grocery store. In Wolf’s book, he offers this Paleo food matrix. When these items are combined to make different recipes, they total 81,000 different meals. That’s enough to eat brand new meals every day for 221 years!
Chicken breast Chicken thigh Flounder Snapper Trout Halibut Mackerel Bass Salmon steak Salmon fillet Shrimp New York steak Rib eye steak Round steak Ground beef Beef ribs Rump roast Beef stew meat Pork loin Pork chop Pork ribs Baby back ribs Bacon Pork roast Lamb chops Lamb rack Venison steaks
Avocado Artichoke hearts Brussels sprouts Beets* Carrots Celery Daikon Zucchini Fennel Root Kale Chard Dandelion greens Spinach Acorn Squash* Butternut Squash* Yam* Sweet Potato* Red pepper Yellow pepper Green pepper Red cabbage Green cabbage Napa cabbage *dense carbohydrate; eat in moderation until leanness goals are reached
VEGETABLES
FATS
Asparagus
Coconut oil
PROTEINS
Olive oil Macadamia oil Avocado oil Lard HERBS & SPICES Allspice Basil Cardamom Cinnamon Celery seed Dill Fenugreek Garlic Ginger Curry-Red Curry-Green Curry-Yellow Oregano Cilantro Nutmeg Rosemary Thyme Garam Masala Bay Leaf Salt Herbs de Provence Chili powder Paprika Cumin Black pepper
myclickmag.com | JANUARY 2014 83
feature
Ask the Expert: Dr. John Ratey Author of Spark: The Revolutionary New Science of Exercise and the Brain talks about the cognitive benefits of vigorous physical activity Story by EPHRAIM TUCHO
F
For those that think the healthy benefits of physical activity are limited to physical conditioning, they may be surprised to learn that the true benefits of exercise are for the brain. This is the position of Dr. John Ratey, author of “Spark: The Revolutionary New Science of Exercise and the Brain” (Little, Brown & Co., 2008) who says, “Building muscles and conditioning the heart and lungs are essentially side effects. I often tell my patients that the point of exercise is to build and condition the brain.” Here, Dr. Ratey shares some of his thoughts on the impact of exercise on the brain and how we can wire our brain to overcome the resistance.
What improvements will someone see in their mental capacities once they start exercising? What the exercise does is that it makes learners better at learning. It improves the attention system, it improves the motivation to stick with it. It lowers impulsivity. You’re less jumpy in a cognitive situation. It reduces anxiety all those things make for a better learner. For the brain, for 100 billion nerve cells [exercise] optimizes it to grow, and that’s the only way to learn things. That’s the way we encode information. The brain becomes better conditioned. Synapses get pushier, make more neurotransmitters and make more receptors. We get our brain cells ready to learn. If our brain cells don’t grow, we don’t learn. The body craves activity though when the brain resists. Is there a way to wire our brain into craving and enjoying this exercise as well? The resistance is there. Other than once you get to a point of being so keyed into it, you get on a regular schedule. The ultimate best way is to do it with someone and to have fun with it. That is the best way to get you going and keep you going. After a while, the best way to get wired is to have something that’s fulfilling and drawing enough and motivating enough on its own. There comes a time for those who make it to about three months, it’s very hard for them to stop a regular routine.
84 JANUARY 2014 | myclickmag.com
" I think if you exercise, your level of fitness is going to change your level of cognition. You’re not going to have that acute burst like you’ve had in the past." Is wiring the brain an additional challenge for people who recently started losing weight or does the same challenges present to those who have exercised regularly in the past? It’s very hard to start. One of the things we know now is that for very obese people the way to get them to start is probably by lifting weights; small curls or lifting things above their heads. They will be able to see a change in their strength and they will be able to see it immediately. They can see themselves getting stronger and they can get closer to walking and aerobics. Walking is nice, but exercise really means pushing beyond your limits. Walk more than you usually do. You have to see a change. That’s why going to a gym is good because you can see a change easier. Then you really want
cynthias
to push yourself. until you’re out of breath and you are willing to push yourself. But people tend not to push themselves. In your book you recommend aerobics and tennis for conditioning both the body and the brain. Are there any other activities you would suggest? How intense should the activity be? Overall, I’d say best exercise is dance. Vigorous kinds of dance involve so much, so many muscles, as well as the brain, and that’s the trick. What we know is the best results come from exercises that involve coordination and learning challenges. In dance you have to concentrate on the steps and you have a partner and it adds an overall degree of complexity. The more vigorous dance the better. I think the ideal [for an activity] is probably something that gets your heart rate up to 90 percent of maximum for a short period of time We know what can happen when we don’t exercise our physical muscles but what effects would a lack of exercise have on our brain? I think if you exercise, your level of fitness is going to change your level of cognition. You’re not going to have that acute burst like you’ve had in the past. Getting to a point where you don’t need exercise is not real. People need to continue to exercise throughout their lives. Your cognition goes down as you get older and it goes down pretty quickly.
myclickmag.com | JANUARY 2014 85
Looking For A Healthier Happier Life? Increase Your Energy Reduce Your Stress Feel Good Again! Kandi Tippit, CHC, NHP
Certified Health Coach 5740 Getwell Road, The Grove Business Park Ste. 4A, Southaven, MS 38672 901-734-2114 Kandi@treatwithnature.com
Whole Body Health & Wellness, LLC 901-734-2114
www.treatwithnature.com
Visit our Website to Schedule a Complimentary 1 Hour Health Consultation!
86 JANUARY 2014 | myclickmag.com
ac steakhouse
FOOD & ENTERTAINING
ENT RTAINING
A Birthday Dinner Southern hospitality fit for a Southern gentleman.
Photography by Donny Granger, Creation Studios myclickmag.com | JANUARY 2014 87
entertaining
t See more a g.com myclickma
Make A Birthday Wsh... To celebrate her husband’s 35th birthday event, design and party planning expert Michelle Hope planned a surprise dinner for her husband Darrin with six of their closest friends. To make it memorable, she incorporated some special details and his favorite color: green.
88 JANUARY 2014 | myclickmag.com
entertaining
W
ade and Company did the catering and created a delectable menu comprised of his favorite foods. “We even had a signature drink — Caramel Whiskey Cider — and custom cookies (by The Painted Cookie) that doubled as dessert and placecards,” says Hope. “My favorite detail was the placemats designed by Zerilla Designs. They included details and inside jokes about the birthday boy and his life, and showcased our menu in the center,” she adds. No matter what birthday you are celebrating or what budget you are working with, you can always do something to make it special and memorable. Keeping the guest list small is a great way to make the celebration more intimate and budget friendly. You can prepare food yourself, make it a potluck and have the guests all contribute a dish, or splurge and hire a caterer to prepare a private dinner. In lieu of a large cake, we opted for a delicious dessert, which is also a wallet-friendly option. Choosing a location for the party other than your home can make it easier to surprise the honored guest and less stressful for the host. “I chose the Vault at Metro 67, which was perfect for an intimate setting and also needed little added decor. An estate-sized table and some Chiavari chairs from Classic Party Rentals were all I needed for this dinner party. I was able to get a gorgeous moss, crinkle linen and coordinating napkins from Mahaffey Party Rentals, which created the perfect canvas for all the details and dinner,” says Hope. Simple flower arrangements by Ashlye McCormick Designs lined the long dining room table and candlelight really created the perfect ambiance inside the vault. Creation Studios was there to capture it all on camera and ensure we had these precious memories preserved. “No matter what you do, get good pictures so you can relive it and share it with others,” advises Hope.
myclickmag.com | JANUARY 2014 89
entertaining
Sources: Photography Donny Granger, Creation Studios creationstudiosgallery.com Event Design Michelle Hope, Social Butterflies 901.828.9321, sb-events.com Catering Wade & Co. 901.260.3766, wadeandcompanycatering.com Flowers Ashlye McCormick Designs 832.226.1568, ashlyemccormick.com Rentals Mahaffey Tent & Party Rental Angela Watson 901.457.1909, mahaffeytent.com Classic Party Rentals David Platt 310.966.4900, ClassicPartyRentals.com Cookie Placecards The Painted Cookie 901.246.7180, thepaintedcookiellc.com Paper Details Zerilla Designs 901.634.8808, zerilladesign.com Venue Metro 67 67 Madison Ave, Memphis 901.578.2630, metro67.com
90 JANUARY 2014 | myclickmag.com
first sec bank
brantley funeral
myclickmag.com | JANUARY 2014 91
recipes
The Dish
Tried-and-true recipes from fellow readers Recipe Courtesy of KRISTEN RAMBO
Rosemary Lemon Cookies
Ingredients:
1 c. butter, at room temperature ¾ c. granulated sugar ½ tsp. coarse salt 1 tbsp. minced fresh rosemary zest from one lemon 1 egg, also at room temperature 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract 2 ½ all purpose flour
SUBMIT
TO YOURs@RmEyCclIPickEmSag.com re ci p e
Directions:
1. In one bowl cream together the butter and sugar, then add the egg. Beat until creamy. 2. Sift the flour into a separate bowl; add the minced rosemary and salt. 3. Slowly mix the dry ingredients into the wet, until crumbly. Then mix in the lemon zest and vanilla extract. 4. Chill the dough for at least 2 hours before baking, overnight is even better. 5. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and lightly butter a baking pan. 6. Roll dough into 1 inch balls, lay them about 2 inches apart, and then lightly flatten them with the back of a fork (it helps if you use a cold fork). 7. Bake for 10-15 minutes, allow to cool before serving. Enjoy!
92 JANUARY 2014 | myclickmag.com
zaxbys
myclickmag.com | JANUARY 2014 93
2013
CLICK
CLICK
February
MAGAZ
MAGAZ
February
2013
INE
INE
PEOPLE
PEOPLE
E | PARTI
E | PARTI
CES S | PLA
CES S | PLA
FEBRU
FEBRU
A R Y 2013
A R Y 2013
V O L. 7
V O L. 7
N O. 2
N O. 2
MYCLI
MYCLI
DING IS
2013 WED
OM
OM
SUE
C K M A G.C
C K M A G.C
IDo
1/25/13
ARY 2013
FEBRU
IDo
SUE
DING IS
2013 WED
11:48 PM
1/25/13
1 CLICK.indd
ARY 2013
FEBRU
11:48 PM
1 CLICK.indd
CliCk Magazine
The “I Do” Issue February 2014 Showcase your wedding in the February issue of Click magazine. instRuctions To be included in the 2014 February wedding issue of Click, your wedding must have taken place between January 2013 and December 2013. Go to myclickmag.com to download a wedding submission form and questionnaire. All submission forms in the Click wedding packet must be completed and mailed to our office by January 7. Payment must be accompanied with all materials at time of submission. Save your photos on a CD as high-resolution, digital images (300 dpi). The CD should be labeled with the bride’s and groom’s full name. This should also be submitted no later than January 7.
Submit your materials & payment to: Click Magazine Wedding Registry P.O. Box 100 | Hernando, MS 38632 Questions? Please call 662.429.6397 ext. 234 or email weddings@myclickmag.com for further information.
1 january 2013 | myclickmag.com
myclickmag.com | may 2013 1
SEE&DO ONE THING NOT TO MISS THIS MONTH
Mingle
S D
Crystal Ball Gala 2014 The
Community
Foundation
of
Northwest
Mississippi will host its biggest annual event, the 14th Annual Crystal Ball Gala on Jan. 18, 2014, at the Arena in Southaven. Approximately 900 are expected to attend this years Studio 14-themed gala, which includes dinner, dancing, and silent and live auctions. Also in attendance as the foundations 2014 honoree is Bob Pittman, a native Mississippian, accomplished businessman and philanthropist; Pittman is the co-founder and programmer who led the team that created MTV, among many other things. The night will also honor four local Community Stars. Tickets are $150 and can be purchased online at cfnm. org. Proceeds from the Crystal Ball Gala support the more than 400 nonprofits assisted by the Community Foundation of Northwest Mississippi.
myclickmag.com | NOVEMBER 2013 97
Think Think
IMAGE FPO KNEE
Stat
Think OrthoMemphis
™
Urgent Orthopaedic Care Skip the ER and save both time and money. When it comes to sprains, muscle, bone, or joint injuries, Think O. OrthoStat provides fast, urgent care by an orthopaedic specialist. You don’t need an appointment – walk-ins are always welcome.
OrthoStat
WALK-IN HOURS
hand | elbow | shoulder | knee | hip | foot & ankle | spine
™
™
901.261.STAT (7828) | orthomemphis.com 6286 Briarcrest Ave. | Memphis, TN 38120 A division of MSK Group, P.C.
®
M–Th: 8a – 8p Fri: 8a – 5p