Northside Sun May 2012 by northsidesun

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may 2012

Contents MAY 2012

28 38

VOLUME 7, NUMBER 3

The Wallers

Early last December, Mississippi Chief Justice Bill Waller Jr. stood in a sanctuary full of people in downtown Jackson and said goodbye to his father, the late Gov. Bill Waller. Just two weeks later, Bill Jr. stood in that same sanctuary and gave away his daughter, Jeannie, in marriage. An eventful and emotional couple of weeks to be sure.

28 Renaissance Awards

The Renaissance Society of the Fondren Renaissance Foundation will present the second annual Renaissance Awards for Preservation, Urban Renewal, Vision and Arts May 10. This event recognizes six very distinguished Jacksonians who have set the standards in order for our city and neighborhoods to thrive.

38 A Taste of the Country

48 Edward Balser

Edward Balser lives three lives. If you see him at the reservoir, he will probably be working on his boat. If you attend a child's birthday party, he may be there, dazzling the small guests with his magic tricks. On any Sunday or holy day, he will be saying mass at an area Catholic church.

may 2012

2012

Departments May

WEDDINGS/ENGAGEMENTS

63 64 64 66 66 67 67 68 68 71 71 72 72 75 75

Kathryn Miller Simmons/ Andrew Page Prosser Angela Lee Aldridge/ Colby Brett Beem Morgan Danielle Arnold/ Joseph William Collins III Josephine Luck Clark/ William Arnot Geary Jr. Ashley Nicole George/ Jason Paul Wells Laura Lee Wooley/ Jordan Lee Russell Courtney Shannon Costello/ Thomas McIlwain Wright Jr. Libbo Haskins/ Clay Crosswhite Molly Michelle Jones/ Shawn Eric Moore

EVENTS

PARTIES

78 82 84 89

Engagement Party An engagement celebration honoring Susannah Johnson and Taylor Harris was recently held in the home of Deborah and Leslie Lampton.

Engagement Party The home of Betty and John Allin was the setting for a party honoring the engagement of Katherine Wood and Alex Petrovitch, both of Los Angeles.

Engagement Party An engagement celebration honoring Courtney Costello and Tommy Wright was held recently in the home of Sandra and Trip Barnes.

Engagement Party An engagement party honoring Katherine Barkett and Adam Byrd was held in the home of Drs. Thad and Paula Strange.

Birthday Brunch Northsider Joe Morris celebrated his 60th birthday with a Sunday brunch in Raymond.

Emily Henderson Molpus/ Frank Hilton-Green Tomlinson Jr. Anne Olivia Ware/ John Joseph Terenzio Jr. Catherine Allyce Wilbanks/ Adam Hamilton Majors Stephanie Nola Kayma/ Ben Riggs Kitchens Amanda Taylor Mertz/ Jeremy Austin Shook Kaitlyn Marie Messer/ Robert Choyce Humble

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COLUMNS

54 58

Food Wise Marlana Walters

Tennis Advantage Jenny Markow

92 94 95 96 98 100 102 104 106 110 112 115 116 118 120 121

Steel Chef Mississippi Chefs from around the metro area honored the late Jackson restaurateur Craig Noone.

Hinds County Republican Women The Hinds County Republican Women held its annual membership luncheon recently.

Solitario Art Reception An art reception was held at Gallery 119 for recently New Orleans artist Billy Solitario.

Rebel Club The Rebel Club of Jackson met earlier this year at Table 100.

Reunion Tour of Homes Mac and Paula Long hosted a party honoring the couples whose homes were part of the 2011 Reunion Christmas Tour of Homes.

Jackson Academy Book Signing Jackson Academy held a book signing and reception in the school library.

Debutante Mothers Club of Mississippi The Debutante Mothers Club of Mississippi hosted a luncheon at the Country Club of Jackson.

The Garden and Gun Club The Garden and Gun Club traveled to Jackson for a members-only sporting clays tournament.

Starry Night Gala The 2011 Starry Night Gala benefiting St. Anthony Catholic School was held.

Sister Dorothea Retirement Sister Dorothea Sondgeroth recently retired as president/CEO of St. Dominic Health Services.

Ballet Mississippi Sponsor Party Ballet Mississippi hosted its annual sponsor party for â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Nutcrackerâ&#x20AC;? recently at Thalia Mara Hall.

Rembrandt Society Dinner The Mississippi Museum of Art honored its highest level of donors at the 24th annual Rembrandt Society Dinner.

Zoo Party The Jackson Zoo hosted ZooParty Unleashed at Duling Hall in Fondren.

Israeli Reception The Jewish Community of Jackson together with Opher Aviran hosted a reception recently for Gov. Phil Bryant.

Bookfriends The University Press of Mississippi Bookfriends recently held its annual membership party.

Hearts Against Aids The Mississippi HeARTS Against AIDS held their 20th anniversary benefit

Your Bride’s Favorite Wish List The Bridal Registry Inside Batte Furniture and Interiors

Our list of registrants is being continually updated. This list is current as of April 8, 2012. Call today to schedule your appointment to register.

April 2012 Jeff Ringer Katie Carlisle Batte Virginia Turnage Katie Wasson Emily Everett Taylor McPherson Anna Bailey Catherine Bilbo Leslie Wells Katie Bryant Kinley Caldwell Virginia Patton Susannah Johnson Ramsey Cruise Shellie Jones

May 2012 Rachel Blaylock Anna ward Natalie Nelson Jenny Word Courtney Costello Brittany Jones Tara Davis Menton McGinnis Katherine Dobson Ashleigh Harb Angela Aldridge Alexandra Wilkes Lorin Napier Rachel Marie Paris Katie Watkins Stephanie Monsour

June 2012 Lee Wooley Blair Leake Maggie Morganﬁeld Hannah Pittman Allison Atwood Alex Lott Katherine Ross Emily Molpus Katherine Ross Claire Gremillion Katherine Barkett Madeline Moore Alyson Rossetti Brooke Mansﬁeld Leigh Mitchell Madeline Ward Virginia Uhrin Lauren Host Courtney Lovelace Dea Hammett

Timothy Jones Bob Corkern Andrew McLarty Johnny Banahan Bobby Lawrence Kyle Clingan Brad Baskin Stephen Snell Taylor Newman Hunter Evans Taylor Harris Brian Long Gunter Cheatham Preston Wiley David Adcock Brad Skipper Earl Stubbleﬁeld Tommy Wright Jonathan Varney Bryan King Matthew Deweese Woods Drinkwater Gabe Roberts Colby Beem David Long Blake Oliver Billy Pritchett Beau Murphy Brian Holt Jordan Russell Ben Wunderlich Lee Parker Jay Hogg Brad Jeffries Cap White Rob Puckett Frank Tomlinson Rob Puckett William Murphy III Adam Byrd John Duncan Bass Doug Ward Brandon Easterwood Jason Craft Randall Saxton Timbo Taylor Matt Stratton Whitt Simmons Michael Bowling

4/07/12 4/14/12 4/14/12 4/14/12 4/14/12 4/14/12 4/14/12 4/21/12 4/21/12 4/21/12 4/28/12 4/28/12 4/28/12 4/28/12 5/05/12 5/05/12 5/05/12 5/05/12 5/12/12 5/12/12 5/12/12 5/19/12 5/19/12 5/19/12 5/19/12 5/19/12 5/19/12 5/26/12 5/26/12 5/26/12 6/02/12 6/02/12 6/02/12 6/02/12 6/02/12 6/09/12 6/09/12 6/09/12 6/09/12 6/09/12 6/16/12 6/16/12 6/16/12 6/16/12 6/16/12 6/23/12 6/30/12 6/30/12 6/30/12 6/30/12

July 2012 Olivia Ware Mary Chris Kellum Olivia Stubbleﬁeld Rebekah Blakeslee Kristen McBride Marjorie Garretson Catherine Hutchinson Sarah Cunningham Kate Parker Julia Watt Tyler Kellum Rachel Little

John Terenzio Ryves Moore Brad McCay Josh Gregory Chaz Richardson Drew Lewis Bradford Walker Michael McMillin Peyton Bell Austin Ellis Blake Jeter Stephen Sims

August 2012 Molly McNames Daniel Shumate Kristen Krouchick Jody Clark

Jamie Mallison Will Geary

September 2012 Laine Poole Trotter Flynn Lauren Green Cameron McVey Bonnie Grace Caroline Dees Elisha Blades Elizabeth Cole

Clif Egger Ryland Lucie Blan Newcomb Travis Sledge Matt Bailey Zach Ring

October 2012 Meghan Alford Daniel Luter November 2012 Candace Shelton Charles Plunkett Ashley Nader

Andrew Stubbs

7/07/12 7/07/12 7/07/12 7/14/12 7/14/12 7/14/12 7/14/12 7/21/12 7/28/12 7/28/12 7/28/12 7/28/12 8/11/12 8/11/12 8/18/12 9/01/12 9/02/12 9/08/12 9/22/12 9/22/12 9/22/12 9/29/12 10/06/12 11/03/12 11/24/12

Mother’s Day At the Batte Bridal Registry, you’ll ﬁnd an assortment of gifts she’s sure to love.

Sunday, May 13

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the

northsidesun magazine

A MONTHLY PUBLICATION OF THE NORTHSIDE SUN NEWSPAPER P.O. BOX 16709 JACKSON, MISSISSIPPI 39236 601-957-1122

EDITOR

Jimmye Sweat

WRITERS

Susan Deaver • Glenda Wadsworth • Anthony Warren • Jenny Markow Jenny Woodruff • Marlana Walters • Katie Eubanks • Judy Smith

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Beth Buckley • Lonnie Kees • Christina Cannon • Chris Grillis • David Johnston Rachel Kabukala • Anthony Warren • Jenny Woodruff

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Melanie North

ADVERTISING

Katy Agnew • Holly Dean • Amy Forsyth • Carly O’Bryant • Lauren Breazeale

ART DIRECTOR Wanda McCain

GRAPHIC DESIGN Mary Margaret Thiel

PRODUCTION MANAGER Beth Buckley

PRODUCTION Jo Ann Ward

BOOKKEEPING Dani Poe

CIRCULATION

Dale Frazier • Dottie and Jeff Cole • Kerri Hawkins THE NORTHSIDE SUN MAGAZINE IS PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY THE NORTHSIDE SUN NEWSPAPER. ALTHOUGH THE MAGAZINE IS DISTRIBUTED FREE ON NEWSSTANDS, PAID SUBSCRIPTIONS ARE AVAILABLE FOR $20 ANNUALLY. FOR NEW SUBSCRIPTIONS, CHANGES OF ADDRESS OR OTHER SERVICES RELATED TO SUBSCRIPTIONS, CALL 601-957-1542. FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION CONTACT YOUR CURRENT AD REP. FOR INFORMATION CONCERNING WEDDING SUBMISSIONS, PARTY COVERAGE OR FEATURES, CALL 601-957-1123 OR E-MAIL JIMMYE@NORTHSIDESUN.COM. THE MAGAZINE OFFICE IS LOCATED AT 246 BRIARWOOD DR., JACKSON, MISSISSIPPI 39206; THE MAILING ADDRESS IS: P. O. BOX 16709, JACKSON, MISSISSIPPI 39236.

ABOUT THE COVER j^v=OMNO

The Renaissance award winners, Andrew Mattiace, David Watkins, Elise and William Winter, Billy Mounger and Mike Peters, were photographed by Lonnie Kees 16

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may 2012

theWALLERS

KATIE EUBANKS

arly last December, Mississippi Chief Justice Bill Waller Jr. stood in a sanctuary full of people in downtown Jackson

and said goodbye to his father, the late Gov. Bill Waller. Just two weeks later, Bill Jr. stood in that same sanctu-

ary and gave away his daughter, Jeannie, in marriage. An eventful and emotional couple of weeks to be sure â&#x20AC;&#x201C; but both ceremonies celebrated the tenacious love of Christ and family that has sustained Bill Jr., Charlotte, and their three children for decades.

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BETH BUCKLEY

may 2012

WHEN YOU WALK into the Wallers’ yellow Victorian-style home, Charlotte will offer you a cup of fresh-brewed tea, your choice among flavors ranging from Earl Grey to orange spice. Fragrant candles give the house a scent of springtime, and you’ll inevitably enjoy a long conversation. Today Jeannie brews your cup of orange spice, and mother and daughter sit at a little kitchen table to share some of their story. “We’ve always been a very connected family,” says Jeannie (now Jeannie Zieren), who moved back into her childhood home last year for the final few months of wedding planning. Living at home again was great, she says, though it came with a few challenges. See, Jeannie isn’t exactly a morning person, but her dad is. William, Charlotte, Jeannie, Bill and Clayton on Jeannie’s wedding day.

“He sings at the top of his lungs in the mornings,” says Charlotte, a Biggersville native, who doesn’t mind the crooning at all. In fact, if her husband pauses she’ll urge him on. “He sings, she laughs, and I’m still trying to wake up,” Jeannie says. While their morning dispositions might differ, Charlotte and Jeannie have a lot in common, including teaching exercise classes at First Baptist Church of Jackson’s Christian Life Center (CLC). “We have similar teaching styles. People can tell I’m her daughter,” says Jeannie, who was only six months old when Charlotte started taking aerobics at the CLC. “It was ingrained in me,” Jeannie says. “When I was little, I’d watch her watching videos and learning her choreography. That was back in the Jane Fonda days.”

Bill Waller Jr. January 1998 being sworn in by then Chief Justice Lenore Prather

Jeannie took her mom’s aerobics classes in the summers during high school and eventually started substitute teaching. She kept teaching classes and got certified while attending Mississippi State University (MSU) and then graduate school at the University of Mississippi. “I gravitated toward Pilates because of the meditation benefits. Then I came home [from Oxford] in 2008, and they had Pilates at church.” Jeannie and Charlotte say the exercise classes at the CLC are a ministry. Under the direction of Charlotte, who now serves as aerobics coordinator, the classes include praise music and mini-devotional lessons. “People like it,” Jeannie says. “It’s a non-intimidating, non-threatening environment, and you’re connected to brothers and sisters in Christ.” CHARLOTTE AND BILL first connected with each other at First Baptist too. Like his dad and three brothers, Bill met his future wife in the church’s ministry for young single people. “We were just friends at first. We had a date and did things with the singles,” says Bill, a graduate of the University of Mississippi School of Law, sitting in his conference room at the state Supreme Court. Both Bill and Charlotte got their undergraduate degrees at MSU, but the commonality that brought them together was family.

Charlotte and Jeannie

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Charlotte and Jeannie at four-year-old tea party

“The lights didn’t come on until she invited me to her apartment

Yellow house set up for tea party

after a football game one night and all her family was there and I got to meet them. Her grandmother and my grandfather had graduated high school together, at a small rural school in Lafayette County. “For one reason or another, that moved the relationship.” Marriage followed, and then three children: William is now 31 and a dermatologist in Hattiesburg; Jeannie, 29, lives with her husband in Oxford and is director of communications at Mississippi Main Street Association; and Clayton, 20, is a sophomore in accounting at MSU. Meanwhile, Bill’s legal career became more and more public. He served as a Jackson municipal-court judge in 1995 and 1996, was elected to the state Supreme Court in 1996, and became chief justice in 2009. “Judges don’t have the high profile [like my dad did as governor],” Bill says. The late Gov. Waller served from 1972 to 1976. “But there are things you’re expected to do, commitments you’re supposed to have. A public office has public commitments.

by members of First Baptist - though they’re still involved with Bible studies at the church where they first met. So Sundays have changed for the couple. They’re attending a new church, and their kids are growing up and making their own Sunday traditions throughout the state.

“You have to make your family life a

PRIORITY.” - Bill Waller

“You have to make your family life a priority. We’ve got a rule that anything I do at night, I discuss with Charlotte, and we consider family commitments first. I’m working on something every night, but not to the exclusion of the family.”

But Bill’s proudest moments as a father are getting the whole family together for a meal, a graduation or a holiday – in other words, “just being a father,” he says.

Jeannie says that when she was growing up, Sundays were family days. “So besides church [at First Baptist], we’d all pick an activity and do it. We’d go get ice cream, go to the fair, or drive to a small town and look around.”

AS FOR NON-FAMILY commitments, “I look over Charlotte’s things as well,” Bill says. “She can get busy too.”

These days Bill and Charlotte attend Sunday-morning services at Grace City Church - a congregation planted in north Jackson just over a year ago

In addition to teaching aerobics, Charlotte also hosts her own unique brand of tea parties, which have grown into much more than sugar cubes and socializing. “I did a tea party for Jeannie and her friends when she was four,”

may 2012

Charlotte says. “At the CLC, they would do craft birthdays, and I thought, ‘Why not do little girls’ tea parties?’ I would say a prayer at the parties.

“The Lord is just our rock.”

“Then God gave me a vision.” Charlotte was sitting in the kitchen with her Bible and a cup of tea one day, and several Scriptures came to her mind. Each Scripture related to a different part of tea – cups, tea trays, cream, and even lemons – as a symbol of people and their life experiences. For instance, “lemons represent the sour choices we make or the misfortunes that happen during our lives because we live in a fallen world,” she says. She often cites John 16:33, in which Jesus says, “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

Charlotte and Jeannie

“Do not

CHANGE

what God’s given you.” - Jeannie and Bill Waller Like every family, the Wallers have gone through struggles. “You’re either in a trial, coming out of one or going into one. That’s been our 32 years of marriage,” Charlotte says. “But God has provided for us and taken care of us and made a way when we didn’t see a way. And I try to share at the tea parties that whatever it is – cancer, job loss, whatever – God’s going to put someone in your path that you can minister to even as you’re going through that.”

The Wallers: Back row: Bae, Clayton, Jeannie, William III, Yonnie, Don, Anne Overton, Robert, Madeline, Joy. Middle row: Charlotte, Bill Jr., Carroll, Don, Bill, Maggie, Bob, Margaret. Front row: Emma Carroll, Danny, Lucy, Millie, Ava Burton

Last fall Charlotte hosted a tea party at a local antique shop, and she was nervous about sharing her “heavenly tea” devotional in a secular setting. “But Jeannie and Bill both said, ‘Do not change what God’s given you.’” And the Wallers wouldn’t change anything God has given them, whether it’s a new marriage or even the loss of a dear father and grandfather. Their Savior has proved trustworthy through it all. Clayton, William, Bill and Jeannie 24

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Charlotte and Jeannie Waller

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may 2012

RENAISSANCE

AWARDS second annual

FOR PRESERVATION, URBAN RENEWAL, VISION AND ARTS

By Jim Wilkirson executive director Fondren Renaissance Foundation Andrew Mattiace, David Watkins, Elise and William Winter, Billy Mounger, Mike Peters

photography by Lonnie Kees 28

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he Renaissance Society of the Fondren Renaissance Foundation will present the second annual Renaissance Awards for Preservation, Urban Renewal, Vision and Arts May 10. This event recognizes six very distinguished Jacksonians who have set the standards in order for our city and neighborhoods to thrive. They have been instrumental in all walks of life and have affected citizens in countless ways. They are leaders and mentors. They have championed great causes and inspired others to reach to greater heights. They have taken risks and “stepped outside the box” to improve everyone’s quality of life. They believe in Jackson and have improved its quality of life – they are what make Fondren, and the state, a better place. This year’s award recipients include Andrew Mattiace and

ANDREW MATTIACE AND MIKE PETERS I have been fortunate to meet these two gentlemen at different junctures prior to knowing about their business acumen. Andrew happens to have been a former neighbor and seeing how we are the ones on the corner, he always greeted my “outside playing” children with the proverbial honk. Later, I would be able to assist in the planning of his daughter’s wedding. Mike and I served together a number of years ago on the board of the Fondren Renaissance Foundation. Since then, I have been fortunate to be a part of Mike’s boys’ lives as well. Whether helping to plan their weddings or my daughter reaping the rewards of his son’s soccer coaching, we have managed to be a part of the Peter’s family as well. I say all of this because these two men – Andrew and Mike – are not only the businessmen behind a great number of real estate deals and holdings but they are also the “family” men that we all aspire to be. They are both heavily involved in their community and are constantly trying to match other entities together to make a difference. Each of these two men have great partners in their wives, as both Jan Mattiace and Anne Peters stand side by side with these men in their quest to make a difference in our great city. These are everyday people who are so involved in life that they don’t know any other way than to make a positive difference. Their business developments and partnerships have their heart at the center of their success. They have influenced countless people to take a chance at following their dream. They share their knowledge and desire freely. I look around the “city of Fondren” and I see so much that their hands have touched and influenced. They are responsible for much of the resurgence of our area. Duling Hall stands at the heart of their development. Once an unused 16th section land holding, today this building and its surrounding grounds are fully restored and feature some of Jackson’s finest restaurants as well as offices and businesses recognized nationally for their leadership in their respective fields. But it doesn’t stop there with this dynamic duo – you see, these are the people that don’t just fill up a space with a prospective tenant and let them live out their lease. This team takes “living the dream” to a different level. They are the ones that take an interest in you on a daily basis and want to see you succeed; they are the ones who give up maintenance help to

Mike Peters for their leadership in urban renewal; Billy Mounger for his leadership in the arts; David Watkins for his leadership in historic preservation; and Elise and William Winter for their leadership as visionaries. “This year’s honorees are courageous, willing, selfless and untiring individuals that inspire us for the betterment of what they represent. They deserve our praise and gratitude for the quality of life that they have bestowed upon us. They have passion – the kind that our parents said we should have for something we loved. And most importantly, these people are not finished. They continue to make their mark on our city every day. If we are to lead by example, then we are to follow in their footsteps.” make your street festival a success. They are the ones who tirelessly try and find a tenant for another center so that the area remains strong. They are the ones that put creative landlord practices to work so that a new business or nonprofit can “give it a go.” They have tireless faith in others and want to see them succeed. They don’t see the praise that they deserve, but to us, on the outer rim of their world, we see all the greatness that they have accomplished in the corporate and private arena. They are real everyday workers making a difference, not only with bricks and mortar but also with people, their lives and dreams.

BILLY MOUNGER I grew up in a family whose mom was active in the political arena and whose dad happened to be an independent oilman. So, needless to say, the Mounger name was one that I have heard in conversation for a number of years. I have been fortunate over the years, however, to get to know Billy and his wife Jan in other ways. Having had a business in the Fondren area and being on the foundation board in the early years, I have had the occasion of being in the presence of Mr. Mounger on numerous occasions. In fact, not many things even happen in the Fondren community without the presence of this husband and wife team. Billy, of course is widely known in business and political circles for his unwavering support and keen insight, but it is his love of the arts that has always been most intriguing. You see this man has an enormous wealth of knowledge with keen business acumen. He is a military man and a sportsman to boot. He can truly speak with authority on almost any subject. His contacts are far and wide, and his interests seem to match this breadth of knowledge as well. But it seems as though one of his greatest and most natural passions is the promotion of the arts. He has served our city and state with honor in this regard. He has truly stepped up and led the charge in so many “once in a lifetime” events, setting the stage for the International Ballet Competition and world-class art expositions highlighting everything from the Palaces of Versailles to the Palaces of St. Petersburg. He has tirelessly promoted our city across the United States as well as abroad.

may 2012

He has made a name for Jackson outside its boundaries and given it prominence in the international arts community. His vision and ability to serve as an ambassador for the arts has allowed those close to home the chance to explore the world’s greatness without ever traveling outside the city limits. He has brought the world stage to our front door. He has exposed adults and children alike to treasures that have never been outside their boundaries before. He has given young artists, whether through the visual arts or performing arts, a place of prominence in our community. He has paved the way for Jackson to be the cultural center for the arts in the South. Words cannot express the groundwork for which he has laid in our fair city – he is truly a renaissance man with a passion for sharing and exposing the arts.

DAVID WATKINS This is a man who has taken his passion and made it his career. A highly successful lawyer, David is most known for his work with educational reform and the Jackson Public School System. However, it is his later in life passion for real estate and what many of us would call the “impossible dreams” that intrigue him the most. Now retired from law, he focuses all of his time on revitalization and urban renewal. He has masterfully orchestrated the phrase “think outside the box.” He has been able to accomplish what others before him have only talked about. He has taken the once grandeur of our fair city that had fallen into grave disrepair and breathed life into it for another generation to experience. He has the uncanny ability to bring back the memories, to restore that which cannot be restored. His developments and projects require not only dreams of restoration and repurposing but also the finesse to create the financial backing required to complete the project. His passion is relentless, and together with his son, he is a tireless advocate for bringing back what has fallen into disrepair and creating new life in a structure while saving the integrity that it once possessed. He gets the big picture; he understands the need to preserve and at the same time change purpose. He is a master of the big picture. Some cities have lost what they once had but we can truly say we “have a new Sherman in town.” We owe David Watkins our hand of approval. From the King Edward to the historic Farrish Street District, he understands that there are great things among us that are deserving of being saved and not being torn down. His brilliance and business sense are allowing us to share our past with the future.

ELISE AND WILLIAM WINTER I dare say that there is not a person alive in Mississippi that has not reaped the rewards of this team. Having served our state so graciously, this dynamic and humble duo has been at the forefront of promoting Mississippi throughout my lifetime. They are the epitome of Southern hospitality, and I am always so honored when I am in their presence. They have a care and concern for all and always put others before themselves. They are the definition of public servants, but it is their actions after the “Mansion” that are most intriguing. They have continued to serve our state like no other after leaving office. They have tirelessly promoted our state and been at the forefront of educational reform and racial reconciliation. They have moved mountains in a calming and caring way. Throughout it all,

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they have taken with such dignity a caring spirit to those in need. William has helped to pave the way for groundbreaking reform and has tirelessly worked to preserve our state’s heritage. Elise has been tireless in her efforts to make sure the people of this great state of Mississippi have proper home and shelter by lending her actions to Habitat for Humanity. A founder of Habitat for Humanity Metro Jackson, she has truly taken her generous spirit and placed it into action by firsthand making a difference in the lives of so many who just wanted to live the “American dream” of owning a home. This is a couple that took their oath of office as if it were a wedding vow. They have made a life of making a difference so that all Mississippians might have a better life. We should all be so honored for their vision in making a difference in the lives that they so graciously have served.

AWARDS PRESENTATION The Renaissance Awards for Preservation, Urban Renewal, Vision and Arts will be presented at the historic Cedars located at 4145 Old Canton Rd., on Thursday evening, May 10. The evening will begin at 6:30 p.m. and will feature Southern delicacies from famed husband and wife duo Derek and Jennifer Emmerson of Walker’s Drive In and Local 463. Music and dancing for the evening will feature “Swing de Paris” from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Proceeds from the evening will benefit the ongoing preservation and restoration efforts of the home and grounds as well as the continuing arts education efforts of The Cedars. Renovated and restored in 2003 with further enhancements in 2011, The Cedars, Jackson’s oldest standing residential structure will celebrate its 175th anniversary in 2015. The structure and grounds are maintained by the Fondren Renaissance Foundation and serve as a vital location for community events throughout the Jackson area. Daily maintenance and further continued preservation are needed to keep this historic icon a thriving part of our community. The Cedars plays host to a variety of events throughout the year, many free and open to the public. From the Symphony at Sunset to the award-winning Four Seasons of The Cedars Visual and Performing Arts Series, The Cedars serves as a catalyst for a number of Jackson philanthropies and non-profits. Tickets for the Renaissance Awards are $100 per person, and members of The Cedars Trust serve as hosts for the evening. Membership in The Cedars Trust is $500 annually per couple. The Cedars Trust members are individuals who honor each year’s class of distinguished honorees and are listed on a permanent commemorative plaque recognizing their contributions to ongoing efforts at The Cedars. Tax deductible contributions to The Cedars Trust will ensure that The Cedars will continue to survive for future generations to enjoy and continue the cultural and arts programs for which it is currently known throughout the community. Newly raised funds from the 2012 Cedars Trust are needed for continuing arts education and programming along with continued restoration of the house structure and grounds. Specific areas of concentration are to include interior and exterior maintenance, further installation of historical plantings, roofing and drainage issues, a back privacy fence and the installation of a backyard pavilion to be used for outdoor events as well as storage. For more information on this year’s 2012 Renaissance Awards, contact the Fondren Renaissance Foundation at 601.981.9606 or log on to www.fondren.org.

original chalkboard ledge, this room would serve the next generation of homeowners as the family dining room. Today, the foundation maintains ownership of the property and its grounds, complete with the majestic cedars for which it was named. Known by most of the community as the site of picturesque weddings and receptions, The Cedars is probably best known for the Four Seasons at The Cedars Visual and Performing Arts Series and Symphony at Sunset – both widely praised cultural community events open and free to the public. Like any other historic structure and grounds, funds must be constantly set aside for the continued purpose of preservation and maintenance. Newly raised funds for The Cedars are to include interior and exterior maintenance, further installation of historical plantings, roofing and drainage issues, a back privacy fence and the installation of a backyard pavilion to be used for outdoor events as well as storage. The Cedars is located at 4145 Old Canton Rd. For more information, call the foundation office at 601981-9606 or log on to fondren.org.

BETH BUCKLEY

A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE CEDARS

The Cedars is Jackson’s oldest standing residential structure and was saved from destruction and restored to its former grandeur by the Fondren Renaissance Foundation and a host of other individuals and corporations. Originally part of the Garland Plantation, William Garland and his two brothers, Samuel and Burr, came to Mississippi from Lynchburg, Va., in 1832 and bought up farming land extending from Northside Drive and North State Street east to the Pearl River and south to present day Lakeland Drive. In 1840 The Cedars was built by William while the brothers built on the hill where the Rogue/4450 now stands. When William died in 1847, the brothers inherited the property and, after they returned to Virginia at the start of the Civil War, the land was sold off. At the time, The Cedars was the last stage coach stop en route to Canton. Over the remaining years, the homestead was changed slightly in appearance to accommodate the owners. The most notable change was the relocation and addition of the plantation’s one-room schoolhouse to the original structure. Still maintaining the

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BILLY MOUNGER

“Duty, Honor, Country,” the motto of the United States Military Academy, probably best describes the foundation for Billy Mounger’s life of a community servant, businessman, philanthropist, political activist, family man, and husband. A perpetual ball of energy and a man of vision, he provides leadership and lasting impressions wherever he goes. Mounger was born on March 31, 1926 to Veronica Robertson Mounger and William Malcolm Mounger, both deceased. His father was a longtime CEO of Deposit Guaranty Bank and Trust Company. He attended Jackson Public Schools and was graduated from Central High School in 1944. In 1944, he was appointed to the United States Military Academy, West Point, N.Y., where he was graduated in the Class of 1948 with a bachelor’s degree in general

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engineering. He was commissioned second lieutenant in the United States Air Force, and received his pilot’s wings in September of 1949 at Barksdale Field. He flew B-29s, but mostly B-50s, and participated in flying the first atomic bombs to Europe in 1950. He attained the rank of first lieutenant, was aircraft commander of a B-50 Bomber with a 10-man crew and was also an atom bomb commander. He resigned from the Air Force in February of 1953. In September 1954, he entered the University of Oklahoma where he received a bachelor’s degree in petroleum engineering and a master’s of petroleum engineering in 1957. He began working for Humble Oil and Refining Company (Exxon) in South Louisiana as a petroleum engineer. He left Humble to open the first petroleum department in Mississippi for the Deposit Guaranty Bank and Trust Company; he managed the department until January 1970. He then became an independent oil producer, and invested in many other business endeavors. Mounger is known for his political activities on behalf of the Republican Party. He began supporting the party in 1958. In 1966, he became the finance chairman for the Mississippi Republican Party and continued in that role through 1976. He became known for his work with the USA International Ballet Competition. In 1986, when it was floundering due to financial problems, then-Mayor Dale Danks asked him to help save the competition. With only six weeks left before the event was scheduled to start, he raised $350,000, enabling it to be produced. It was in this competition that Russia participated in the West for the first time, sending their three best dancers to perform, thereby cementing the status of the USA IBC as the best in the world. For the 1990 USA IBC, he was development chairman, putting the IBC in the best financial position of any arts organization in Mississippi. He then served as chairman of the 1994, 1998, 2002, 2006, and 2010 competitions, assuring continued preeminence of the USA IBC as number one in the world. He has served as a member of the board and honorary chairman of the Mississippi Commission for International Exchange from its origination in 1994. This commission produced the Palaces of St. Petersburg, the Splendors of Versailles, the Majesty of Spain, and the Glory of Baroque Dresden. He is an avid tennis player and was a vice president of the Southern Lawn Tennis Association. Mounger has received many awards, including the Bill and Emmett Vaughey Wildcat Award (Mid-Continent Oil and Gas Association) 1994; Governor’s Award for Excellence in Arts-Patrons Award 1995; recipient of People of Vision Award 1995; recipient of the Exchange Club Americanism Award 1996; knighted by Knights Hospitaller of Saint John of Jerusalem 1997; Goodwill Volunteer Service Award for 2001; the first recipient of the Stuart C. Irby Philanthropy Award 2005; honored by the American Cancer Society 2007. He is a longtime, active member of the First Presbyterian Church in Jackson. He and his wife, Jan Gore Mounger, were married on January 21, 1956. They have two sons, William Malcolm Mounger II and Robert Gore Mounger, and five grandchildren: Callie, Catherine, William M. III, Robert, and Anne Rivers.

ANDREW MATTIACE/MIKE PETERS ferences. He has served on the board of directors of Community Bank of Mississippi, Willowood Developmental Center, Belhaven University advisory board, and the Bond Home of Madison. He has served seven years as chairman and board member of Downtown Jackson Partners.

MICHAEL JOSEPH PETERS

T. ANDREW MATTIACE Andrew Mattiace is the president and founder of Mattiace Properties Inc. He is also the owner and general managing partner for The Mattiace Company and Mattiace Development Company LLC. Prior to starting his own company, he was the Hinds County finance director and deputy chancery clerk. Mattiace was graduated from St. Joseph High School where he earned a scholarship to attend Belhaven University and earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting. While at Belhaven, he received the Outstanding Leadership Award and was elected team captain. His early career was in accounting, but his passion for real estate and dealmaking led to the start of his own firm. Mattiace Properties Inc., was founded in 1979 and has been actively involved in real estate development of shopping centers and office buildings in Mississippi, Tennessee and Louisiana, and has developed in excess of four million square feet of retail and office buildings. Mattiace was the 2005 recipient of the City of Ridgeland Economic Development Award. He is a member of the International Council of Shopping Centers and has served on its governmental affairs committee and as a speaker at several ICSC con-

The Peters family moved to Jackson in 1963, and Mike was graduated from Jackson Preparatory School in 1973. He attended Mississippi State University initially, then transferred to Belhaven College. He was graduated magna cum laude from Belhaven in December 1977 with a bachelor’s degree in business administration. He married Anne Mitchell, a Belhaven graduate, in May 1977. The couple celebrates their 35th anniversary this year. After graduation he began working for several banking institutions and taught evening classes in business and finance for three years at Belhaven College. In the early 1980s Peters began working for Wayne Parker, a wellknown real estate developer in Jackson. He managed Parker’s real estate business for over 10 years. He started Peters Real Estate in 1993. He is best known for his renovation and restoration projects, including the Plaza Building, a 12-story art deco building in downtown Jackson which Peters bought in 2004. The 85,000-square-foot building, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, was in need of repair and only half occupied when he bought it. It now is fully occupied, with restaurants, offices and the top three floors converted into executive apartments. The Plaza Building restoration earned Peters the Jackson Historic Preservation Committee’s 2007 Award of Merit for a rehabilitation project. Another project that he has received wide acclaim for is Fondren Corner, credited with reviving development in the Fondren District. This “hugely successful” renovation now houses retail, restaurants, art studios, and apartments and has stayed fully occupied. The Mississippi Main Street Association presented Peters the 2004 Best Adaptive Reuse award for Fondren Corner. English Village, well known as the former location of one of Jackson’s landmarks, Jitney 14 on Fortification Street, has experienced a similar rebirth thanks to Peters. Another endeavor is the $25 million joint venture with Andrew Mattiace, in which the two have teamed with Jackson Public Schools to renovate the historic Duling School and build two adjacent buildings that now house office space, retail, art galleries, boutiques and restaurants. Peters also manages office and retail property in Clinton, Ridgeland, Flowood and Brandon. Two other “developments” that Peters is extremely proud of are his sons Mitch, 32 (married to Cee Jaye and their daughter Anna Mitchell) and Sam, 30 (married to Courtney and their daughter Savannah), both of whom work with their dad in the real estate business. According to Peters, “I can’t imagine not having my sons in business with me. We have a fabulous time.” Peters is a member of Northminster Baptist Church and is a charter member of the Mississippi Commercial Association of Realtors. may 2012

WILLIAM AND ELISE WINTER William F. Winter served as governor of Mississippi from 1980 to 1984. Prior to that he had been elected to the offices of state representative, state tax collector, state treasurer and lieutenant governor. He has been chairman of the Southern Regional Education Board, the Appalachian Regional Commission, the Southern Growth Policies Board, the Commission on the Future of the South, the National Civic League, the Kettering Foundation, the Foundation for the Mid South, the Ole Miss Alumni Association, and the Mississippi Department of Archives and History. He was a member of President Clinton’s National Advisory Board on Race. His term as governor has been nationally acclaimed for the groundbreaking passage of education reform legislation. He was instrumental in the founding of the William Winter Institute for Racial Reconciliation at the University of Mississippi. He was recently awarded the Profile in Courage Award by the John F. Kennedy Library Foundation. An attorney in the firm of Jones, Walker, Waechter, Poitevent, Carrere and Denegre in Jackson, he is a graduate of the University of Mississippi School of Law. Elise Winter, the daughter of the late Mayor and Mrs. E.W. Varner of Senatobia, is a graduate of Northwest Community College and the University of Mississippi. She is a strong proponent of affordable housing and was a founding member of the Jackson chapter of Habitat for Humanity. She also served on the Habitat International Board and the Committee for Affordable Housing of the Federal Home Loan Bank Board. She is a former president of the State Junior College Interalumni Association and of the Mississippi Easter Seal Society and has served as a member of the boards of Rust College and Piney Woods School. She is a recipient of the honorary degree of doctor of humane letters from Mississippi University for Women. She is the author of the book, “Dinner at the Mansion.” She is an elder in the Fondren Presbyterian Church of Jackson. Gov. and Mrs. Winter have three daughters and five grandchildren.

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W. DAVID WATKINS David Watkins is the president and CEO of Watkins Development LLC and several other development companies doing business as Watkins Partners. He is a native of Natchez and has lived in the Jackson area for more than 40 years. Watkins earned a bachelor’s degree in economics from Millsaps College, attended Emory University School of Law and the University of Mississippi School of Law, receiving a juris doctorate degree. He has also attended the Harvard University Graduate School of Education and served two years in the Air Force. Watkins was engaged in the full-time practice of law for more than 35 years, retiring in December to focus his fulltime effort and energies on his real estate projects. Prior to his retirement, he was a partner in the public finance law firm of Watkins and Young, which he founded in 2004. Formerly, he was a partner in the law firms of Brunini, Grantham, Grower and Hewes and Adams and Reese LLP, where he specialized in education law, public finance and governmental relations. Among his many clients, he represented the Jackson Public Schools for more than 35 years, up until his retirement last year. As a lawyer and a volunteer, he was active in education reform advocacy for over a quarter of a century, having worked on most of the major education reform legislation from 1975 through 2000. He has also held numerous other positions of public service, including being on the boards of the Jackson Chamber of Commerce, Metro Jackson Chamber Partnership, Downtown Jackson Partners, the Mississippi Symphony, the Greater Jackson Arts Council, the Mississippi Department of Information Services, the National Council of School Attorneys, the American Judicature Society, the Coalition for Children, Education First of Mississippi, and Central Mississippi Legal Services, to name a few. Watkins began to pursue real estate and urban development and other entrepreneurial ventures, in addition to his law practice. As a result of his successes in various downtown Jackson projects, he has focused his entire attention on the real estate development business. He is a principal, co-developer and co-owner of the King Edward Hotel and the Standard Life Building projects. He is also the principal investor and the developer of the Farish Street Entertainment District in downtown Jackson. In addition to tackling “impossible” real estate projects in Jackson, his biggest challenge, and his greatest joy in life is being grandfather to nine-year-old grandsons, Web, Hudson and Jackson, and a seven-year-old granddaughter, Douglas.

may 2012

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A Taste

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of the Country RIGHT IN TOWN

BY J E N N Y PHOTOS BY R AC

WOODRU HEL KAB

The silence and the close proximity to the golf course were two deciding factors when Dawn and Chad Gnam chose to build their home in the Montrose subdivision in Ridgeland. On May 4, supporters of the Mississippi Children’s Home Services will have a chance to see why it was the right decision at the 2012 Annual Wine Tasting and Silent Auction, which will be held at their home from 7 to 10 p.m. The Gnams built their house three and a half years ago and moved into the five bedroom home in 2008. “It feels like you are out in the country even though we are right in town,” Dawn said. “As much time as I spend in my car, that was important.” Chad, a Houston, Texas, native, and Dawn, originally from Nashville, met while they were both attending Vanderbilt. They were married after Chad’s fist year in medical school in Texas. They were transplanted to Jackson after medical school when they moved here for Chad to do his residency program in obstetrics/gynecology at University of Mississippi Medical Center. “Neither of us knew a single person in Jackson, but Chad had been very impressed with the program during his interview,” Dawn said. “Frankly, I thought we would be here for the four years of training and move on. However, once here, we made some really good friends and loved it. That was 16 years ago. We’re here to stay.” The Gnams have two children, Ashley, 16, a sophomore at Jackson Academy, and Jack, 12, in sixth grade at JA. J. Scott Williams was the architect and David Ray built their Montrose home. Cathy Chinn, then of F F Navarro-McLean, was the decorator. “She was fabulous. We wanted the house to be beautiful but UKALA comfortable, and she managed that perfectly,” Dawn said. “Many people have asked me if I would ever build another house. While I don’t plan to, I would only undertake another house if David would

may 2012

he silence and the close proximity to the golf course were two deciding factors when Dawn and Chad Gnam chose to build their home in the Montrose subdivision in Ridgeland.

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On May 4, supporters of the Mississippi Children’s Home Services will have a chance to see why it was the right decision at the 2012 Annual Wine Tasting and Silent Auction, which will be held at their home from 7 to 10 p.m. The Gnams built their house three and a half years ago and moved into the five bedroom home in 2008. “It feels like you are out in the country even though we are right in town,” Dawn said. “As much time as I spend in my car, that was important.” Chad, a Houston, Texas, native, and Dawn, originally from Nashville, met while they were both attending Vanderbilt. They were married after Chad’s fist year in medical school in Texas. They were transplanted to Jackson after medical school when they moved here for Chad to do his residency program in obstetrics/gynecology at University of Mississippi Medical Center. “Neither of us knew a single person in Jackson, but Chad had been very impressed with the program during his interview,” Dawn said. “Frankly, I thought we would be here for the four years of training and move on. However, once here, we made some really good friends and loved it. That was 16 years ago. We’re here to stay.” The Gnams have two children, Ashley, 16, a sophomore at Jackson Academy, and Jack, 12, in sixth grade at JA. J. Scott Williams was the architect and David Ray built their Montrose home. Cathy Chinn, then of Navarro-McLean, was the decorator. “She was fabulous. We wanted the house to be beautiful but comfortable, and

she managed that perfectly,” Dawn said. “Many people have asked me if I would ever build another house. While I don’t plan to, I would only undertake another house if David would build it and Cathy would decorate.” Their beautiful home includes five bedrooms, five baths and two half-baths. The master bedroom is located downstairs overlooking their pool. The other four bedrooms are upstairs, where Ashley and Jack each have their own room and bath, and share a “study” room. Dawn’s mother stays with them on many occasions so she has her own “Mimi” room. The upstairs also includes a guest room. The kids have a large playroom with ping pong and a basketball goal, and their own media room. But Dawn’s favorite parts of the house are the kitchen/keeping room and the pool area. The kitchen has a large brick island that is the hub of their daily lives. “We truly live in the kitchen,” she said. “We love the large island, where there is plenty of room for everyone to gather. I can stand at my sink and look out at the pool, not a bad view for washing dishes. We spend so much time in the spring and summer around the pool. We wondered when we were building if we would really use the pool. We definitely do.” The dining room is another favorite area of Dawn’s. “One of the priorities was a room that would accommodate a round dining table,” she said. “We have lots of family in town for holidays and love to have dinner parties around the round table. It is so great to be able to talk to everyone.”

Throughout the house, the decor is traditional because according to Dawn, “we are not formal people and didn’t want a particularly formal design.”

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Dawn decided to host the wine tasting event for MCHS because she has friends and former tennis teammates who are involved in the organization.

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Throughout the house, the decor is traditional because according to Dawn, “we are not formal people and didn’t want a particularly formal design.” Cathy accomplished just what the Gnams were hoping for, “beautiful but comfortable.” Walnut floors run through the home, which Dawn said was one of their most difficult decisions when building. “We looked and looked and could not decide, then went on an anniversary trip to the Sanctuary on Kiawah Island, S.C.,” she said. “They have the most beautiful floors in the main building, and we loved them. A bit of research led us to Carlisle flooring and the walnut plank. We have been delighted with that decision.” “We have family in Texas and both love the look of the houses in the Texas hill country,” she said. Limestone and

stucco cover the front of the house, and salvaged brick is on the back, while the back porch is framed with salvaged beams from an old cotton warehouse. Dawn decided to host the wine tasting event for MCHS because she has friends and former tennis teammates who are involved in the organization. “When they asked me about hosting the wine tasting event, I was happy to agree.” She said. “What a wonderful organization. They provide so much to those children who really need it.” The annual event will showcase wines and food prepared by some of the Jackson area’s finest chefs. Warren Gunn will return as this year’s sommelier. The event is chaired by Angela Jones and Katherine Penton, and co-chaired by Marcie Robertson and Kristin Malouf.

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Mississippi Children’s Home Services Mississippi Children’s Home Services (MCHS) has served Mississippi children, youth and their families for an entire century. To note this accomplishment, MCHS is holding centennial celebration events throughout the year across the state. The proceeds raised from the evening’s event will fund an array of programs including adoption, children’s shelters, special education, foster care, therapeutic group homes and psychiatric residential treatment facilities. In 1912, Mississippi Children’s Home Services began as a “home-finding agency” for neglected and dependent children who were not served by orphanages. Since then, the agency has placed approximately 7,000 children in caring homes. As society changed and the needs of children grew, Mississippi Children’s Home Services evolved, amending its charter and garnering increased public and private support and began to serve thousands more children annually. These are children who do not know what it means to be held, hugged or loved. They are children who are homeless, children who have suffered physical, mental, emotional and sexual abuse. They have no one to turn to and nowhere to go, and feel as if they have nothing to lose. Often indigent and lacking in influence, these are children who find at Mississippi Children’s Home Services the compassion and expert care they need to stop hurting and to begin healing, to build the foundation for a more hopeful existence. The MCHS mission is to improve the lives of children and families by providing a continuum of compassionate, measurable and effective behavioral health and social services. “The Mississippi Children’s Home Services Wine Tasting and Silent Auction has become the signature event for our organization,” said Jana Bell, special events coordinator. “This year we expect well over 300 people to come out to sample fine wines and gourmet foods. “In honor of our 100th anniversary, we’ve set a fund-raising goal of $100,000; this level of support from the community will allow us to continue to grow in our ability to meet needs of children and families throughout our state. We are deeply appreciative of the Gnams for opening up their beautiful home for what promises to be a wonderful evening.” For more information, please contact Jana Bell at jana.bell@mchscares.org or 601-709-1204.

may 2012

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bÇï~êÇ _~äëÉê BY GLENDA WADSWORTH PHOTOS BY BETH BUCKLEY

EDWARD BALSER lives three lives. If you

see him at the reservoir, he will probably be working on his boat, dressed in crisp white shorts and wearing his captain's cap. If you attend a child's birthday party, he may be there, dazzling the small guests with his magic tricks. Rent his party boat and Father Magic may provide your evening's entertainment. On any Sunday or holy day, he will be saying mass at an area Catholic church. Call him Captain Balser, Father Magic or Father Balser, he answers to them all; he is them all.

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may 2012

bÇï~êÇ=_~äëÉê He is an anomaly. A native Mississippian, born and bred in Pike County, he has spent his entire working life in a diocese peopled with priests primarily from Ireland. In his younger days he served St. Peter's, St. Jude's, Holy Family and St. Paul's, all in the greater Jackson vicinity. Although Father Balser is now retired and living in Madison, he routinely supplies area churches especially at vacation time, what he calls 'hit and run' service. "I'm filling in for all those priests who go home to Ireland for a month in the summer." Edward was number seven of 10 children born to a machinist for the Illinois Central Railroad, George Balser, and his wife, Emma, a homemaker. George, of German descent, was a stern man; Emma, a gentle soul, was Irish in background. They bore 10 children. Two died in childhood, the eld-

est, also named George, and the youngest, Kathleen, "Wounds my mother never got over." Papa George had a knack for fixing and building things, and son Edward often picked up his dad's pocket knife and whittled. Whittling and woodworking soon became a deeply entrenched hobby, both with Edward and brothers John and Richard. "Tinkering is in our blood." The three brothers all have workshops at their homes even today. Richard, child number four in the family, has a wealth of stories about his younger brother. "Eddie never met a person he didn't like, and everyone liked Eddie. We lived out in the country, but he visited our neighbors just like they were family members." As a child Edward could not stand to see someone in need. "It was Depression time," says Richard, "and I recall one Friday evening when mother made a big pot of gumbo. After I finished my

“This is one unique man. I think he loves wood almost as much as he loves the Catholic church. He cuts and sands each piece with his

çïå=Ü~åÇëKÒ - Sandra Weber

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bowl, I got up to get another, and Eddie said I could not have any more. He asked my mother to allow him to take the remaining gumbo to the Tate family down the road. He told us that Mrs. Tate had nothing in the house to feed her 10 children. I can still see Eddie walking out the door with a container of gumbo under one arm and another of rice under the other arm headed for the Tates' house." EDWARD HAD HIS OWN workshop as a youngster. Around the age of 10, Father Balsar decided to try his hand at taxidermy. He acquired a mailorder course on taxidermy and set traps in a creek that ran through their acreage in Pike County. Among his first attempt, were a kitten, a mink and some birds. He even skinned a large snake a neighbor had killed, dried the skin and made himself a belt. The kitten "didn't much look like a kitten when Eddie got through with it," says Richard, "but with practice - and more lessons - he got to be really good at it." Once gentle Emma set her Irish mind to something, she was a force to be reckoned with. When the small church school her children attended closed, she vowed her children would not attend public school. Richard, still amazed, says, "She somehow convinced the nuns at St. Mary's School, Chatawa, an all-girl boarding school, to accept her sons as day students." Father Balsar and his brothers graduated high school from St. Mary's. Edward attended college in Louisiana with the intention of becoming a physician, but after two years of pre-med, he decided to enter seminary, and he carried his love of woodworking on to seminary, where he tinkered in the school shop, and later to the churches he served. Perhaps because of growing up with a large group of siblings, the Northsider has always had a special interest in ministering to the children of his congregation. During his tenure there, St. Jude's Church had an excellent and active day care program, which at its peak had 300 children enrolled. Father Balser began to make wooden toys and small furniture chairs and steps - for the day care center. It was not only a labor of love, but an economic move. "Toys are so easily broken. It seemed we were always replacing them, whereas wooden toys are virtually indestructible." At St. Paul's Church day care center his work was repeated. Today Father Balser creates his toys for the day care center of St. Francis Church. His pride and joy is a wooden train which holds 35 children and is pulled by a golf cart. On Mondays the train comes out of its garage to take every child who is able to walk on a ride around church grounds. With the priest of St. Francis as engineer, the train ride is a treat eagerly anticipated by the children. BALSER'S HOME in Madison is situated on a four-acre lot, and behind the comfortable house is an enormous 48' x 24' workshop filled roof to floor with wood Father Balser has scavenged from any and everywhere. When a furniture company closed in Canton he bought the entire inventory of wood. "I pick up discarded wood, too," he says, and, pointing to a box of hundreds of golf tees, he adds, "and friends are always on the lookout for things I can use." His shop houses a table saw, planer, router, band saw, jigsaw, drill press and lathe. In every nook and cranny are boxes of toy parts: planks for the stools, wheels for the trucks, spindles and legs for various furniture pieces,

all cut and sanded and ready to be quickly assembled when an order comes. While most of his toys go to day care centers, a line of Father Balser's toys and furniture is for sale at Olde Tyme Commissary. These include a doll stroller, Noah's ark, truck, space shuttle, boat, lapboard, puzzles, steps, blocks, pencil holders, small figures of people, chicken and dogs, and childsized tables and chairs. Holidays bring out an array of special gifts: personalized Easter baskets and Christmas ornaments. Sandra Weber of Olde Tyme Commissary in Highland Village says of Father Balsar, "This is one unique man. I think he loves wood almost as much as he loves the Catholic church. He cuts and sands each piece with his own hands. When he brings a new group of toys in, he will pick up a piece and show me, 'Look, Sandra, at the color of this,' or 'Look at the beautiful grain in this one.' If I think of something I want to add to our inventory, I can just tell him my ideas, and he can execute them just as I imagined them. I have carried his Easter baskets in my shops for almost 37 years … I tell people they are blessed, because Father Balsar made them."

Ü~ééáåÉëë “When you bring

to others, you cannot keep it from yourself.” - Edward Balser WHEN ASKED which is his favorite toy, with a sly smile and a twinkle in his eye, Father Balser replies, "My favorite and biggest toy is my boat." Everyone knows Father Balser's boat Friendship II, which has been the scene of many joyful events. Not everyone realizes that Balsar himself built the boat as well as its three predecessors, the Mary Lynn, the Melody Ann, and the first Friendship. "My boats were originally built for the entertainment of children. I thought they would enjoy a boat ride on the water." The Friendship, 98 feet long and 20 feet wide, was constructed with no plans, no blueprints, just a vision in Balser's mind. "I knew what I wanted, so I put my woodworking skills to work and built a very detailed scale model, on a ratio of one-half inch equal to one foot. Then I took the scale model to a friend in Louisiana who is knowledgeable of the Coast Guard regulations. He built the flotation and structure. Then together we constructed the entire boat right out here on the Reservoir near the Cock of the Walk." Father Balser believes in having fun. He rides a Honda Silverwing Scooter which he calls "an old man's bike" and cruises his four acres on a riding mower. These are the words he lives by, which he wanted to pass on to Sun readers: "When you bring happiness to others, you cannot keep it from yourself."

may 2012

Today was really hard. I get mad a lot now and get in ďŹ ghts in school. But, I know I can do better. I just need help to work harder and be nicer. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m ready to try.

Tomorrow will be different. Every child can become a success story.

mchscares.org MYPAC: In-home counseling for emotional disturbances PRTF: Residential care for emotional disturbances

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FOODWISE

GOOD FOOD AND GREAT TABLEWARE MAKE

A HOUSE A HOME T TEXT AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY

here is no place like home and there’s no place like your mama’s house. But at some point mama wants you to leave and then she wants you to come back and visit. After college, I got my first real job as a buyer for Viking Cooking School in Greenwood and moved back in with my parents. I was pretty happy with the situation free rent (I could save for my first house), free food (I could meet my friends for happy hour and still have dinner when I got home), and free laundry service (I had more time to spend doing other things besides washing and folding). Initially my parents were happy too - until they realized that their house was a storage facility for my college furniture, an all night café, and a laundromat. When I came home from work and announced that Viking was transferring me to Jackson and I would be moving out, my moth-

northside sun

M A R L A N A WA LT E R S

er ran to the liquor store – not for a bottle of champagne, but for boxes to help me pack. After five years of college tuition, no car payment, health insurance coverage, and a cell phone tied to my parents account, the free ride was over. The real world was waiting for me in the capital city and mama and daddy weren’t paying the way anymore. It didn’t take me long to realize there really is no place like home. Of course I was giddy to have my own place, my own stuff, and to come and go as I pleased – yet I missed home. Since I was a kid, I have been paralyzed by bouts of homesickness. I remember going to camp and being physically ill because I wanted desperately to go home. (SIDE NOTE: It’s funny how food is a part of every memory that I have as a kid and this one is no different - I associate camp with vanilla milkshakes. I did not like camp; therefore I do

Marlana Walters, Proprietor The Everyday Gourmet

not like vanilla milkshakes. Vanilla milkshakes make me homesick, but not in a good way.) In an effort to calm me, the camp director brought me a vanilla milkshake. I was inconsolable and to her credit most kids would stop wailing long enough to enjoy such a treat. Not me. In between dramatic gasps for air as I hyperventilated, I ingested enough to know I cannot stand vanilla milkshakes. I am not sure if it was the tears or the fact that I threw up the vanilla milkshake that convinced the director to abandon efforts to keep me against my will. Regardless, the director called my mother and my parents drove late that evening to get their homesick daughter. I have never been so glad to go home - I got to sleep in my own bed that night, haven’t had a vanilla milkshake since that day, and I never went back to camp. Sometimes it takes being away from home to make you appreciate all of the things that

FOODWISE Directions Combine crumbled Gorgonzola cheese and comeback dressing. Pour over lettuce wedge or mixed greens. This recipe is so simple. I highly recommend using fresh shrimp from the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Make sure you have some crusty French bread to sop up the juice – you won’t want to waste a drop.

Lusco’s Broiled Shrimp and Rice Ingredients 1 pound shrimp ½ cup butter, melted ¾ cup Lusco’s Broiled Shrimp Sauce (hot or mild)

make home special. As I explored the definition of home, “the place in which one’s domestic affections are centered,” I realized it’s not one thing that makes a house feel like a home, but all of the things assembled throughout a lifetime that give a home character. Outside of my personal residence, The Everyday Gourmet is my home and a temporary resting place for many products before they find a final home with one of our discerning customers. Recently, we have had a homecoming for one of our most favorite people, Gail Pittman. For years, The Everyday Gourmet has been a destination for Gail Pittman designs. I am proud to say that we are now the home for Gail Pittman. The Everyday Gourmet is now the exclusive retailer for Gail Pittman products in the Jackson area and I am almost as happy as I was when my mamma picked me up from camp. Welcome home, Gail! Combine Gail’s tableware with a home cooked meal and you’re on your way to making any house a home. Many recipes take me back to my hometown and of the comforts of knowing that you can always come home – even if it’s just for a visit. Oxford Falls Comeback dressing is perfect just as it is, but when combined with Gorgonzola cheese it’s even more delicious and adds a little zing to your dinner salad.

Gorgonzola Comeback Dressing Ingredients 1 part Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled 4 parts Oxford Falls Comeback Dressing

Directions Bring water to a boil in three-quart saucepan. Add butter, salt and rice. Return to a boil. Cover and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook 20 minutes. Remove lid and fluff with a fork. While vanilla milkshakes remain one of my least favorite desserts, I can’t help but feel like a kid again when having a bowl of homemade ice cream. Try adding a few Mudpuppie cookies or fresh peaches and dessert is done!

Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream Ingredients 1 cup half-and-half 1 cup whole milk 1 cup whipping cream 1 cup sugar 1 whole vanilla bean, split and scraped Directions Combine all ingredients including the bean and scraped interior in a large saucepan and place over medium heat. Whisk while bringing the mixture to 170 degrees. Do not allow mixture to boil. Remove from heat and allow to cool. Remove vanilla bean hull and pour mixture into covered container. Refrigerate mixture overnight or a minimum of eight hours. Pour refrigerated mixture into ice cream maker and freeze according to unit directions. Once the mixture reaches a soft serve consistency and increases in volume by one half, transfer ice cream to freezer to harden at least one hour before serving.

Directions Clean and devein shrimp and lay on a large piece of foil (shiny side down) on cookie sheet. Pour melted butter over shrimp on foil. Season with salt and pepper. Broil shrimp until pink. Fold up foil with shrimp and cook eight to 10 minutes longer under broiler. Remove shrimp from oven and spoon into serving dish with butter drippings and Lusco’s broiled shrimp sauce. Serve on bed of white rice with bread of your choice.

Perfect Rice Ingredients 2 cups water 1 tablespoon butter 1 teaspoon salt 1 cup rice (Ellis Stansel is preferred)

may 2012

DIVORCE?

WILL I LOSE CUSTODY OF MY CHILDREN?

CAN I GET ALIMONY? WHAT ABOUT MY

BUSINESS? I NEED HELP

CHILDREN? HOW CAN I GET THROUGH THIS DIVORCE? D I V O R C E ? PROTECTION WILL I LOSE CUSTODY OF MY

H O U S E ? HOW WILL WE WORK OUT CHILD VISITATION?

HOW CAN I PROTECT MY MONEY?

ALIMONY? MONEY?

DIVORCE?

WILL I GET TO KEEP

C H I L D V I S I TAT I O N ?

MY HOUSE?

WILL I LOSE CUSTODY OF MY CHILDREN?

H O W W I L L W E W O R K O U T C H I L D V I S I TAT I O N ? WILL I LOSE CUSTODY OF MY CHILDREN?

WHAT ABOUT

THE PRENUPTIAL AGREEMENT?

DIVORCE?

WILL I HAVE

ENOUGH MONEY?

ADDRESSING YOUR FEARS WITH SOUND JUDGMENT AND SOLID LEGAL SOLUTIONS

Richard C. Roberts III

David Bridges

Jennifer L. Boydston

• Named “Best Family Law Firm in Jackson, Mississippi” by U.S. News-Best Lawyers for 2011-2012. • Named “Family Law Lawyer of the Year for 2012” in Jackson, MS by Best Lawyers. • Named a Super Lawyer by Mid-South Super Lawyers. • Named a Mid-South Rising Star for 2011 by Mid-South Super Lawyers. • Former President, Mississippi Bar. • 69 years of combined family law experience. • All attorneys are AV® Preeminent™ rated by Martindale-Hubbell, an objective indicator of the most highly regarded lawyers throughout the United States. AV® Preeminent™ is the organization’s highest rating. • Statewide practice.

CONFIDENTIAL CONSULTATIONS AVAILABLE FOR:

(601) 607-4144 www.rcrobertslaw.com

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Junior Player M I S S I S S I P P I

D E V E L O P M E N T

he Mississippi 10s Junior Player Development Camps are designed to help young players develop to their full potential with learning experience through drills and competitive play. The 2012 camps were held in Gulfport, Laurel, Jackson and Tupelo. More than 80 juniors age 10 and under attended these camps, and 48 were selected by the player development coaches to attend the state camp held in Jackson March 31. Players from the four qualifying camps were selected based on state tournament rankings/standings, USTA Junior Team Tennis

1 0 S

C A M P S

league participation, overall athletic ability, and the potential for growth in tennis. Julio Godreau, director of tennis at Bridges, was in charge of the camps and led a terrific day of drills and play. All of the tennis professionals that hosted a regional camp were part of the state camp. They are all certified professionals and devoted to the development of our junior players. A sectional camp was held in Huntsville in midApril. All of the players selected to attend from Mississippi were from the Northside. Congratulations to Mathis Billman, Andrew Sweat, twins Emma and Elena Roberts, Andrew Ditto and

by JENNY MARKOW

Juliette Finch for this tremendous honor. Big Brothers Big Sisters is the oldest, largest and most effective youth mentoring organization in the United States. They have been the leader in one-to-one youth service for more than a century, developing positive relationships that have a direct and lasting impact on the lives of young people. Joel Waters is executive director for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Mississippi. Their mission is to help children reach their potential through professionally supported, one-to-one relationships with measurable impact. Mentors come from area high schools, colleges and local adult

The 2012 Mississippi 10s Junior Player Development Camp was held at Bridges Tennis Center. Forty-eight juniors from across the state were selected to attend this camp.

Alex Holder

Andrew Ditto

Andrew Sweat

Elena Roberts

Graham Storey

Juliette French

Mathis Billman

Robin Storey, Haley Rook

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qbkkfp ^as^kq^db volunteers. About 40 percent of the programs are community based, mentors actually go to the school and pick up their buddy and take them out into the community for special events. During the recent USTA Women’s Challenger held at River Hills, the Big Brothers and Big Sisters from Casey Elementary School were invited to attend the tournament. Around 40 children from Casey and their mentors came to River Hills for a short tennis clinic, an opportunity to talk to two of the touring pros and to watch the feature

match of the day. The Tri-County Community Tennis Association and the Mississippi Tennis Association sponsored this special event. “We were thrilled to partner with these tennis organizations and have our children have such a positive experience on the tennis courts. Many of these children have never seen tennis, much less been on a tennis court. These are the types of events that we try to have our children involved in as often as we can,” says Waters. “Our mentors have a true passion for what they

are doing. If children are surrounded by people that believe in them, help them to achieve their potential and love them, I truly believe they will grow up and be better adults, and this is what our program is all about,” Waters said. National research has shown that positive relationships between youth and their Big Brothers and Big Sisters have a direct and measurable impact on children’s lives. USTA Junior Team Tennis summer league is back on Friday nights. All matches are played at

During the USTA Women’s $25,000 Challenger, students from Casey Elementary School that participate in the Big Brothers Big Sisters program were invited to the Challenger for a tennis clinic and to watch the feature match of the day. For many of these students, this was their first experience on the tennis courts.

Watching the children are Bill Gittins, from Big Brothers Big Sisters; Carey Spence, River Hills manager; Joel Waters, ED for Big Brothers Big Sisters; and Ryan Buchanan, one of the mentors

Mentors taking a break from the activities are Claire Robinson, Bonnie Blackman, Ryan Buchanan, Amelia Weatherly and Anna Wright

Students from Casey and mentors enjoy listening to the touring pros talk about their tennis experiences.

Jayden Smith, Briyana Jackson, Zayla Jones, Nyla Craton, Brian Washington

Angie Deleon, Deuce Miller

Chad Austin, Joel Waters

Taylor Cain, Madelaine Mangum

Treasure Ford, Alysha Lewis, Imari Funchess

may 2012

qbkkfp ^as^kq^db Ridgeland Tennis Center and Bridges Tennis Center. The league fee is only $25. Play will begin May 18 and run through July 13. If you haven’t already signed your child up to play, contact Angie Deleon, angie@cytecsys.com or 601951-0897 for more details. USTA League Mixed Doubles for Adults and Seniors, USTA Tri Level League, and the TriCounty CTA Ladies Day League are also on the tennis horizon for the summer. Registration for mixed doubles is May 25, with play beginning in June and running through August. Lesley Mosby,

During a recent junior novice tournament at Reunion Country Club, Dailee Ellis and brother Walker take time off the courts to pose with tennis pro, Justin Shylver.

jacksontennis1@gmail.com, is the area coordinator for this USTA league. May 23 is the deadline for team entry forms. Play will begin June 4 and will run for five or six weeks. For more information about the ladies day league, contact Angie Deleon, angie@cytecsys.com or 601-951-0897. For those of you that are not familiar with tri-level, this is a league where you can play with friends at different NTRP levels. The match format is three courts of doubles at three different NTRP levels. Teams for men and women will be comprised of levels 3.0,

Reunion Country Club held a Spring Fever NTRP tournament and Dara Bariola and Stephanie Gibbs finished first in the 3.5 level

Monthly youth days are held at Country Club of Jackson. Win Varner, John Scott Milam, Parker Gilbert, William Mitchell, Max Milam, Brady Stringer; (front) Luci Moore, Ashley O’Mara, Parent Coordinator Trenton Milam, Liv Noble, Megan O’Mara

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3.5, 4.0 as one group, 3.5, 4.0, 4.5 as another group. Senior teams for men and women will be formed with 3.0, 3.5 and 4.0 players. All levels have state and regional advancement, and the adult men and women playing 3.5, 4.0, 4.5 will have state regional and national advancement. For more information about the Tri-Level League, contact Suzanne DeCell at suzanne.decell@gmail.com or 601-613-4511. As always, for all of your tennis needs, go to www.mstennis.com or you can find us on Facebook at USTA Mississippi.

Junior player, Elle Muirhead enjoys tennis at Ridgeland Tennis Center

During a recent junior tournament at River Hills, Campbell Perkins and Elena Roberts won first place in doubles and Campbell won second in singles and Elena won third. Parents are Todd and Beth Perkins and Stan and Colleen Roberts

Throughout the spring, juniors have been taking lessons from Robbie Creveling on Tuesdays and Thursdays at Ridgeland Tennis Center. Robbie Creveling, Matthew Headley, Anna Webster, Adri Henderson, Madeline Berry, Jasmine Richardson, Macy Baker, Kaylee Kennedy, Macy Price; (front) Taylor Clark, Sarah Perkins, Elle Muirhead, Hallie Atkinson, Sydney Storm

may 2012

the northside sun magazine our wedding policy IS PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE

F O R C OV E R I N G W E D D I N G S & E N GAG E M E N T A N N O U N C E M E N T S

E Please type, double space, your article in story format. No forms are used by the Sun. All write-ups should be submitted by the first day of the month for the following monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s publication. Please include photos. At least one photo will be featured with each wedding and engagement announcement. More will be used as space permits. If a stamped, self-addressed envelope is enclosed, every effort will be made to return photos. Please include a daytime phone number on all releases. Payment is due with submission. Wedding announcements are $150 and are full page. Engagement announcements are a half page for $90. Mail to Northside Sun Magazine, P.O. Box 16709, Jackson, 39236; or e-mail to jimmye@northsidesun.com. Deliveries are also accepted at our office at 246 Briarwood Dr. For more information,

call 601.957.1123.

The Sun accepts no responsibility for unsolicited stories, artwork or photographs.

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WEDDINGS

Kathryn Miller Simmons & Andrew Page Prosser OCTOBER 29, 2011 THE EASTERN GREEN • ROSEMARY BEACH, FLORIDA

Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Page Prosser

athryn Miller Simmons and Andrew Page Prosser were united in marriage at 5 p.m. October 29 on the Eastern Green in Rosemary Beach, Fla. The ceremony was officiated by the Rev. Steven Paul Keen. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Harry Daniel Simmons Jr. of Yazoo City. She is the granddaughter of Susie Kuykendall McElroy of Panama City Beach, and the late Claitor Julius McElroy of Greenwood, and Mrs. Harry Daniel Simmons, and the late Mr. Simmons of Yazoo City. The bridegroom is the son of Dr. and Mrs. Harmon Sidney Prosser of Starkville. He is the grandson of Dr. and Mrs. Tom Herron Mitchell and the late Harmon Sidney Prosser Sr., of Vicksburg, and Caron Sylvester Thornton and the late Renee Sims Thornton and the late Jacob Benjamin Sims of Bay Springs. Nuptial music included a string quartet and a trumpet. Katy Apostle Hedglin of Ridgeland sang a solo of “Surely The Presence.” Presented in marriage by her father, the bride wore a designer gown of ivory Lyon lace over silk charmeuse in the color antique. The strapless gown was fashioned with a sweetheart neckline along with an ivory lace shrug. The fitted bodice flared to a trumpet skirt and the sweep train was formed by gathered lace panels. She also wore her mother’s long illusion veil that was edged in Alencon lace. Maid of honor was the bride’s sister Emily Bartling Simmons. Bridesmaids were Susan Shel Gary, Kate Breanna Goodman, Jessie Jones Hornback, Anne Kendall Ketchum, Meredith Loving Manship, and Laura Simmons McMaster. The bridegroom’s father was best man. Groomsmen were William Matthew Fowler, Ashley Steven Harris, Justin Clark Massey, William Sidney Prosser, Ray Kelly Smith IV, and Fred Patrick Sullivan III. The house party was Jennifer Lane Berryhill, Shannon McCain Blakely, Kiley Lorraine Bostick, Tyndale Anne Brickey, Lara Glynn Britt, Jane Chambless Drennan, Molly Benoist Eaton, Lee Williams Erickson Jr., Kathryn Hollis Mallette, Ferriday Mansel McClatchy, Louise Callaway McMillin, Leighton Batte Mosteller, Carrie Benoist, and Mary Lucia Smith. Ushers were Louis Neil Couvillion, Charles Joseph Dixon, Bartley Trawick Harris, Jeremy Slade Kraker, and Charles Henry Templeton III. The bridal proxy was Kathryn Donald Thompson. Program attendants were Kelly Anne Robbins and Kelly Elizabeth Stocks. A reception was held on the Eastern Green in Rosemary Beach following the ceremony. Guests were entertained by the Answer Band of Atlanta. On the eve of the wedding, the bridegroom’s parents hosted a rehearsal dinner at Cafe Thirty-A in Seagrove Beach. Following a wedding trip to the Riviera Maya, the couple is at home in Jackson.

may 2012

ENGAGEMENTS

Angela Lee Aldridge & Colby Brett Beem MAY 19, 2012

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH • JACKSON, MISSISSIPPI

r. and Mrs. Ronald Hugh Aldridge announce the engagement of their daughter, Angela Lee Aldridge, to Colby Brett Beem, son of Mr. and Mrs. Gerald Ralph Beem II of Edinburg. The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Mrs. James Webber Buckley of Jackson and New Hebron and the late Mr. Buckley, and the late Mr. and Mrs. John Edward Aldridge Sr. of Jackson. Miss Aldridge is a 2006 honor graduate of Jackson Preparatory School and attended Mississippi State University where she was a member of Kappa Delta sorority and the Student Association Senate. She was graduated from the University of Mississippi Medical Center in 2010 with a bachelor’s degree in nursing. She is a registered nurse at Blair E. Batson Hospital for Children. The prospective bridegroom is the grandson of Gerald Ralph Beem Sr. and the late Mrs. Beem of Edinburg, and Mr. and Mrs. Joe Pat Chipley Sr. of Singleton. Beem is a 2005 graduate of Leake Academy and attended Mississippi State University. He is associated with Beem’s Pawn, Gun and Discount in Philadelphia. The couple will exchange vows at an 11 a.m. ceremony May 19 at First Baptist Church in Jackson, followed by a brunch reception at the Fairview Inn. Angela Lee Aldridge

Morgan Danielle Arnold & Joseph William Collins III JUNE 9, 2012

CAMERON OAKS FARMS • WILSONVILLE, ALABAMA

onna Arnold and Jerome Arnold announce the engagement of their daughter, Morgan Danielle Arnold, to Joseph William Collins III, son of Dr. and Mrs. Joseph Collins II. The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Betty Garcie and Mr. and Mrs. Glen Arnold. The prospective bridegroom is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Collins Sr. and Mr. and Mrs. John Bier. Miss Arnold was graduated from Chelsea High School in 2008. She attended the University of Alabama and was graduated cum laude in 2011 with a bachelor’s degree in human development. Collins was graduated from Madison Central High School in 2008. He attends Samford University where he will graduate May 19 with a bachelor’s degree in sports medicine. He was a member of the Samford University football team where he played on the offensive line as right guard. Collins is a member of the Southern Conference All-Academic team and the Capitol One All-District Team. He has been accepted and plans to attend the University of Mississippi Medical Center in August where he will pursue a graduate degree in dentistry. The ceremony will be held June 9 at 4 p.m. at Cameron Oaks Farms in Wilsonville, Ala., with reception to follow. Following a wedding trip to Jamaica, the couple will live in Jackson. Joseph William Collins III, Morgan Danielle Arnold 64

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ENGAGEMENTS

Josephine Luck Clark & William Arnot Geary Jr. AUGUST 18, 2012

MYERS PARK METHODIST CHURCH • CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA

r. and Mrs. Charles Edward Clark of Charlotte, N.C., announce the engagement of their daughter, Josephine Luck Clark, to William Arnot Geary Jr., son of Mr. and Mrs. William Arnot Geary Sr. Miss Clark is the granddaughter of Josephine Blackmon Garner of Jackson and Mr. and Mrs. James Louis Garner Jr. of Brandon and the late Mr. and Mrs. Douglas Earl Clark of Tupelo. Miss Clark is a 2006 graduate of Charlotte Country Day School and a 2010 graduate of the University of Mississippi where she received a double major in Spanish and business marketing. She was president of Delta Delta Delta sorority and is associated with Freedom School Partners in Charlotte. Geary is the grandson of Frank Perkins Hixon and the late Jeanne Campbell Hixon of Duluth, Ga., and Mr. and Mrs. John Hart Geary of Jackson. He is a 2006 graduate of Jackson Academy and a 2010 graduate of the University of Mississippi where he received a bachelor of accountancy and a master of accounting. He was a two time officer of Phi Delta Theta fraternity and is a CPA for KPMG in Memphis. The couple will be married August 18 at Myers Park Methodist Church in Charlotte.

Josephine Luck Clark

Ashley Nicole George & Jason Paul Wells JUNE 2, 2012

MISSISSIPPI MUSEUM OF ART • JACKSON, MISSISSIPPI

r. and Mrs. Terry Wayne George announce the engagement of their daughter, Ashley Nicole George, to Jason Paul Wells, son of Mr. and Mrs. Mark F. Evans of Ridgeland, and Jeffery Paul Wells of Louisville, Ky. The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Billy Wayne George of Richland, and the late Mr. and Mrs. Larry Malcolm Sharp of Jackson. The prospective bridegroom is the grandson of Judge and Mrs. Buford Wells of Memphis, and Mr. and Mrs. Paul Edward Nuckolls, and the late Gloria Brown Nuckolls of Meridian. Miss George was an honor graduate from Clinton High School in 2006. In 2010 she earned her bachelor’s degree in nutrition and dietetics from the University of Mississippi, where she was a member of Kappa Omicron Nu Honor Society. She is the social media and outreach coordinator for Fleet Feet Sports in Encino, Calif. Wells was graduated from St. Joseph Catholic School in 2005. In 2009 he graduated from the University of Mississippi, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in business management and was a member of Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity. He is the manager at Fleet Feet Sports in Encino. The couple will exchange vows June 2 at 6 p.m. at the Mississippi Museum of Art. Ashley Nicole George, Jason Paul Wells 66

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ENGAGEMENTS

Laura Lee Wooley & Jordan Lee Russell JUNE 2, 2012

NORTHMINSTER BAPTIST CHURCH • JACKSON, MISSISSIPPI

Jordan Lee Russell, Laura Lee Wooley

r. and Mrs. John Russell Wooley announce the engagement of their daughter, Laura Lee Wooley, to Jordan Lee Russell, son of Amy Bennett Russell and the late Dr. Randy Herschel Russell of Madison. The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Dr. and Mrs. O.B. Wooley Jr. of Jackson and Dr. and Mrs. O.E. Dickinson of Dallas. The prospective bridegroom is the grandson of Ann Gordon Russell of Ridgeland and the late Herschel Ellsworth Russell, and Mr. and Mrs. Leonard Early Bennett of Meridian. Miss Wooley is a 2006 graduate of Jackson Preparatory School. She was graduated from the University of Mississippi in 2010 where she received her bachelor’s degree in business and marketing and was a member of Kappa Delta sorority. She is the assistant to the CFO/office manager with the Republican State Leadership Committee in Washington, D.C. Russell is a 2004 graduate of Madison Ridgeland Academy. He was graduated from the University of Mississippi in 2009 with a bachelor’s degree in political science and was a member of the Kappa Alpha Order. He is the communications director for the office of Mississippi Congressman Alan Nunnelee in Washington, D.C. The couple will exchange vows June 2 at Northminster Baptist Church with a reception to follow at the Country Club of Jackson. Following the wedding, the couple will be at home in Washington, D.C.

Courtney Shannon Costello & Thomas McIlwain Wright Jr.

MAY 12, 2012

FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH • JACKSON, MISSISSIPPI

Courtney Shannon Costello

r. and Mrs. Charles Michael Costello of Bastrop, La., announce the engagement of their daughter, Courtney Shannon Costello, to Thomas McIlwain Wright Jr., son of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas McIlwain Wright of Brandon. The bride-elect is the granddaughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Narvin Hersey Sawyer Jr. and the late Mr. and Mrs. Charles Henry Costello, all of Oak Grove, La. She is also the granddaughter of the late Arthur Rood McCleary of Natchitoches, La. The prospective bridegroom is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Knox Strahan Jr., and the late Mr. and Mrs. John Richard Wright, all of Jackson. Miss Costello is a 2003 graduate of the Louisiana School for Math, Science, and the Arts in Natchitoches, where she was a National Merit Semifinalist. She received a bachelor’s degree in biology from Millsaps College in 2007, where she was a member of Kappa Delta sorority. In 2009 she earned a master’s in biology and medical sciences from Mississippi College. She attends physician assistant school at Mississippi College and is pursuing a master’s in medicine degree. Wright is a 2001 graduate of Jackson Preparatory School where he was a National Merit Semifinalist. He received a bachelor’s degree in engineering from Mississippi State University in 2006, where he was a member of Phi Delta Theta fraternity. He received his juris doctorate of law in 2009 from the University of Mississippi School of Law. Wright is associated with the firm of Anderson, Crawley and Burke in Ridgeland. The couple will exchange vows May 12 at First Presbyterian Church. A reception will follow at the downtown Marriot Jackson. may 2012

ENGAGEMENTS

Libbo Haskins & Clay Crosswhite MAY 26, 2012

GREENWOOD, MISSISSIPPI

iz and the late Tommy Haskins of Madison announce the engagement of their daughter, Libbo Haskins, to Clay Crosswhite, son of Mr. and Mrs. Allen Crosswhite of Philadelphia. The bride-elect is the granddaughter of the late Norman Haskins and Ruth Haskins of Greenwood, the late J.H. Stanton of Greenwood and the late Eloise Stanton of Dallas. Crosswhite is the grandson of the late Buddy Dees and Peggy Dees of Philadelphia and the late Don Crosswhite of Brandon and Pat Crosswhite of Brandon. Miss Haskins is a 2007 graduate of Madison Ridgeland Academy. In 2011, she earned a bachelor’s degree in communications from Mississippi State University, where she was a member of Chi Omega sorority. She is associated with Madison Ridgeland Academy. Crosswhite is also a 2007 graduate of Madison Ridgeland Academy. He was graduated summa cum laude from Mississippi College where he played four seasons of baseball for the Choctaws. He received his bachelor’s degree in exercise science in 2011. He is completing his first year of physical therapy school at the University of Mississippi Medical Center. The couple will exchange vows May 26 at 6 p.m. in Greenwood. After a wedding trip to Fairhope, Ala., the couple will live in Brandon.

Libbo Haskins, Clay Crosswhite

Molly Michelle Jones & Shawn Eric Moore BELLINGRATH HOME AND GARDENS

M Shawn Eric Moore, Molly Michelle Jones 68

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THEODORE, ALABAMA • JUNE 30, 2012

r. and Mrs. Jamie Wallace Jones of Madison announce the engagement of their daughter, Molly Michelle Jones, to Shawn Eric Moore of New Orleans, formerly of Oklahoma City. The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Trudy Wand, the late Clifford Wand and the late Berry Reuben Givens of Brookhaven, and the late James Wallace Jones and the late Billie Sue Jones of Monticello. The prospective bridegroom is the son of Joyce Moore and the late Franklin Dale Moore of Oklahoma City. He is the grandson of the late Calvin and Lois Brown of Valliant, Okla., and the late Herman and Jolene Moore of Tishomingo, Okla. Miss Jones is a 2001 graduate of Brookhaven High School, and a 2005 graduate of Mississippi College where she received a bachelor’s degree in Christian studies. She will graduate in 2013 with a master’s in marriage and family therapy from New Orleans Theological Seminary. Miss Jones is associated with Medical Rehab in New Orleans. Moore is a 2001 graduate of Northwest Classen High School in Oklahoma City and a 2007 graduate of Southwestern Oklahoma State University where he received a bachelor’s degree in parks and recreation management. Moore is associated with Celebration Church in New Orleans. The couple will exchange vows on the south terrace of Bellingrath Home and Gardens in Theodore, Ala., June 30 at 2 p.m.

Downtown Brookhaven • Mississippi 800.676.1093 • www.imaginationsbridal.com

may 2012

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ENGAGEMENTS

Emily Henderson Molpus & Frank Hilton-Green Tomlinson Jr. JUNE 9, 2012

FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH • JACKSON, MISSISSIPPI

Emily Henderson Molpus

r. and Mrs. Charles Homer Molpus announce the engagement of their daughter, Emily Henderson Molpus, to Frank Hilton-Green Tomlinson Jr., son of Mr. and Mrs. Frank HiltonGreen Tomlinson of Birmingham. The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Juanita Stokes Molpus and the late Homer Burnette Molpus, and Emily Henderson Lowry and the late Wiley Potter Lowry Sr., all of Jackson. Miss Molpus is a 2003 graduate of Jackson Preparatory School. She received a bachelor’s degree in family and consumer sciences in 2007 from the University of Mississippi, where she was a member of Delta Delta Delta sorority. She was presented by the Debutante Club of Mississippi. She is an event coordinator in Birmingham, where she is a provisional member of the junior league. The prospective bridegroom is the grandson of Jean Riley Tomlinson of Birmingham and the late Jack O’Neal Tomlinson Sr., Mr. and Mrs. David Ballou Andrews and the late Betty Waller Andrews, all of Pensacola. Tomlinson is a 2002 graduate of Mountain Brook High School. He is also a graduate of Auburn University where he received a bachelor’s degree in marketing and was a member of Sigma Nu fraternity where he served as rush chairman. He is associated with Southern Medical Solutions in Birmingham. The wedding is planned for June 9 at First Presbyterian Church in Jackson.

Anne Olivia Ware & John Joseph Terenzio Jr.

JULY 7, 2012

NICHOLSON RANCH WINERY • SONOMA, CALIFORNIA

John Joseph Terenzio Jr., Anne Olivia Ware

r. and Mrs. Robert Earl Bullock and Mr. and Mrs. William Stephen Ware announce the engagement of their daughter, Anne Olivia Ware, to John Joseph Terenzio Jr., son of Sharon Transue Terenzio of Coral Gables, Fla., and Mr. and Mrs. John Joseph Terenzio Sr. of Los Angeles. The bride-elect is the granddaughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Boyd Fielder Curtis of Hayti, Mo., and Mr. and Mrs. Hamilton Turner Ware of Jackson. Miss Ware is an Alpha Omega graduate of St. Andrew’s Episcopal School. She was graduated from Northwestern University in 2008 with a double major in journalism and French, along with a concentration in sociology. At Northwestern she was a member of Delta Gamma sorority and held an internship at Conde Nast’s SELF magazine in New York City. After moving to San Francisco, she earned a professional culinary certificate from Tante Marie’s Cooking School. Miss Ware is the assistant content manager, ECommerce, for WilliamsSonoma Inc., in San Francisco. The prospective bridegroom is the grandson of the late Mr. and Mrs. Dorr Sheldon Transue of St. Petersburg, and the late Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Vincent Terenzio of New York. Terenzio is a graduate of Ransom Everglades School in Miami, and was graduated in 2008 from Northwestern University with a major in economics, a minor in psychology, and a concentration in film. During college he was a member of the Studio 22 film society, a photo editor for the Daily Northwestern, and held internships at CBS Television Distribution and Buzzmedia in Los Angeles. Terenzio is a software engineer at Eventbrite in San Francisco. The couple will be married July 7 at Nicholson Ranch Winery in Sonoma, Calif. may 2012

ENGAGEMENTS

Catherine Allyce Wilbanks & Adam Hamilton Majors MAY 12, 2012

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH • CLINTON, MISSISSIPPI

Adam Hamilton Majors, Catherine Allyce Wilbanks

r. and Mrs. Charles R. Wilbanks Jr. announce the engagement of their daughter, Catherine Allyce Wilbanks, to Adam Hamilton Majors, son of Mr. and Mrs. Penn E. Majors III. The bride-elect is the granddaughter of the Rev. and Mrs. L. Graham Smith of Clinton, and Mr. and Mrs. Charles R. Wilbanks of Corinth. The prospective bridegroom is the grandson of the late Mable Johnson of Clinton and the late James G. Biedenharn of Vicksburg, and the late Mr. and Mrs. Penn Earl Majors Jr. of Jackson. Miss Wilbanks is a graduate of Clinton High School. She was graduated from the University of Mississippi with a bachelor’s degree in business administration with an emphasis in marketing. At Ole Miss she was a member of the Delta Gamma sorority. She is a corporate trainer at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Mississippi. Majors is a graduate of Clinton High School. He was graduated from Mississippi College with a bachelor’s degree in business administration with an emphasis in marketing. He is vice president of Arrow Printers Inc. The couple will exchange vows at First United Methodist Church of Clinton, May 12 at 6 p.m. A reception will follow at the home of the bride. Following the wedding, the couple plans to live in Clinton.

Stephanie Nola Kayma & Ben Riggs Kitchens JUNE 16, 2012

PINELAKE CHURCH • BRANDON, MISSISSIPPI

r. and Mrs. Robert Lance Cooper of Brandon and Thomas Stephen Kayma of Atlanta, announce the engagement of their daughter, Stephanie Nola Kayma, to Ben Riggs Kitchens, son of Mr. and Mrs. David Allen Kitchens of New Albany. The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Eugene Ferrell Jr. of Clinton, Mr. and Mrs. William Richard Kayma of Marietta, Ga., Marianna Duval Finch of Pelham, Ala., and Mr. and Mrs. William Robert Cooper Jr. of Boca Raton, Fla. Miss Kayma is a 2008 graduate of Northwest Rankin High School. She attends Mississippi State University where she will graduate with a degree in elementary education this May. The prospective bridegroom is the grandson of Mrs. William Thomas Oakes of New Albany, the late James Doyle Stone of Memphis, and the late Mr. and Mrs. Ben Allen Kitchens of New Albany. Kitchens is a 2002 graduate of New Albany High School. He was graduated from Mississippi State University in 2007 with a bachelor’s degree in architecture. He is associated with with JH&H Architects in Jackson. The couple met on a mission trip with Pinelake Church and are planning to marry at Pinelake Church in Brandon June 16, with a reception to follow at the Old Capitol Inn. Stephanie Nola Kayma,Ben Riggs Kitchens 72

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ENGAGEMENTS

Amanda Taylor Mertz & Jeremy Austin Shook MAY 5, 2012

LOST RABBIT MARINA • MADISON, MISSISSIPPI

Jeremy Austin Shook, Amanda Taylor Mertz

r. and Mrs. James Walker Jr. of Madison and Barry Mertz of St. Louis, announce the engagement of their daughter, Amanda Taylor Mertz, to Jeremy Austin Shook, son of Bill Shook and Kathy Shook, both of Brandon. The bride-elect is the granddaughter of the late Victor Harned and the late Jane Harned of Leitchfield, Ky., and Marge Mertz, and the late Gilbert Mertz, both of St. Louis, and Mr. and Mrs. James Walker of Gulfport. The prospective bridegroom is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Guy Groff Jr. of Gulfport and Mrs. Boyce Shook and the late Mr. Shook of Starkville. Miss Mertz is a 2005 graduate of Madison Central High School. She attended Mississippi State University where she was graduated with honors in 2009, earning a bachelor’s degree in business administration. She is the director of scheduling in the office of Gov. Phil Bryant Shook is a 2003 graduate of Northwest Rankin High School. He attended the East Community College where he was graduated in 2007 with a degree in industrial management technology. He is an executive associate with Copper Sculptures Inc. The couple will exchange vows at the Lost Rabbit Marina May 5 with a reception. The couple will make their home in Brandon.

Kaitlyn Marie Messer & Robert Choyce Humble MAY 19, 2012

GALLOWAY MEMORIAL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH • JACKSON, MISSISSIPPI

Robert Choyce Humble, Kaitlyn Marie Messer

r. and Mrs. James A. Messer of Madison announce the engagement of their daughter Kaitlyn Marie Messer, to Robert Choyce Humble, son of Patricia Humble and Dr. Robert Lee Humble of Vicksburg. The bride-elect is the granddaughter of the late Polly and Hugh Musick of Jackson, Sara Messer and the late James E. Messer of Wilmington, N.C., and Alice Breton and the late Alfred Breton of Waltham, Mass. Miss Messer is a 2005 graduate of Madison Central High School and a 2009 graduate of the University of Mississippi Medical Center where she received a bachelor’s degree in nursing. The prospective bridegroom is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Robert P. Humble of Quitman, La., and Willard C. Speights and the late Joyce Speights of Keatchie, La. Humble is a 2004 graduate of Rhodes College and received his medical degree from the University of Mississippi Medical Center in 2011. Miss Messer works in the neonatal ICU at Las Colinas Medical Center in Irving, Texas. Humble is an obgyn resident at the University of Texas Southwestern in Dallas. The couple will exchange vows at 5 p.m. May 19 at Galloway Memorial United Methodist Church. A reception will follow at Old Capitol Inn. may 2012

PARTIES A N D

C E L E B R A T I O N S

Susannah Johnson and Taylor Harris engagement party

Tory and Brook Johnson, Ked Edwards, Susannah Johnson, Todd Wade, Mary Morgan Alexander

engagement party Susannah Johnson, Taylor Harris

Taylor Harris, Susannah Johnson, Jan Hughes, Harkness Harris

An engagement celebration honoring Susannah Johnson and Taylor Harris was recently held in the home of Deborah and Leslie Lampton. The couple will be married April 28. Co-hosts and hostesses were Marilyn and David Dzielak, Frank and Fern Fillingim, Kathy and Tim Ford, Gloria and Steve Hirn, Jan and Kay W.

Taylor Harris, Wesley Roberts

Hughes, Melissa Irby, Sibbey Lewis, Catherine and Russell McCarty, David Mosal, Holley and Don Noblitt, Ann and Mike Peters, Katherine and Tom Quaka, Barbara and Fred Rushton, Ladene and Jim Strong, Elizabeth and John Swain, Ingrid and Time Taylor, and Delores and Curt Ulmer. Shown are scenes from the party.

Susannah and Tory Johnson

Leslie Lampton, Jim Strong, Barbara Rushton, Kay W. Hughes, Steve Hirn, Curt Ulmer; (front) Deborah Lampton, Ladene Strong, Elizabeth Swain, Fred Rushton, Jan Hughes, Katherine Quaka, Gloria Hirn, Delores Ulmer, Tom Quaka 76

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PARTIES A N D

C E L E B R A T I O N S

Katherine Wood and Alex Petrovitch engagement party

John Cook, Alex Petrovitch, Frank and Katherine Wood

engagement party Katherine Wood, Alex Petrovitch

Jane and Kataerine Wood

Marvin and Pat Stockett, Sonia Szlyk 78

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The home of Betty and John Allin was the setting for a party honoring the engagement of Katherine Wood and Alex Petrovitch, both of Los Angeles. The bride elect is the daughter of Celia and Frank Wood and the granddaughter of Jane Cook Wood. The prospective bridegroom is the son of Charise and Paulo Petrovitch of Potomoc, Md. The couple will be wed May 13 in Audubon Park

in New Orleans. Also hosting the party were Melissa and Rick Cavett, Trish and Jimmy Duncan, Donna and Robert Evans, Tommie and Will Goodman, Margaret McLarty, Joe Morris, Karen and Hugh Redhead, Grace and Lewis Rogers, Jimmye and Andy Sweat, Jan and John Wofford and Susan and David Womack.

Charise, Paulo and Alex Petrovitch, Katherine Celia, Frank and Alice Wood, Sonia Szlyk, Ivan Petrovitch

Betty and John Allin

George and Carol Penick, Margaret McLarty, Cooper and Frances Morrison

Trish and Jimmy Duncan

Dan and Kathy Woodliff, Ed Ellington

Carl and David Mann, Celia Wood

Alice Clement, Sam Stockett, Betty and Richard Stockett

Betty Allin, Vicki MacGowan

Will Goodman, Rick Cavett, Andy Sweat

Sis Holland, Howard Stover

Melissa Neville, Tommy Weems

Sammy Moon, Bill McCarty

Diane Morse, Joe Morris, Karen Redhead may 2012

Flo Stover, Alice Wood

George Nicholas, Sue Nicholas, Robert Stockett

David Womack

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Frances Jean and Walter Neely, Jan and John Wofford

Phyllis Thompson, Sarah Morris, Karen Redhead

Will and Tommie Goodman

Camille and Bill Morris

Beth and Taylor Kitchings

Lewis Rogers, Robert Evans

may 2012

PARTIES A N D

C E L E B R A T I O N S

Courtney Costello and Tommy Wright engagement party

Tom, Nancy and Tommy Wright, Courtney, Carol and Mike Costello

engagement party Tommy Wright, Courtney Costello

Miranda Street, Courtney Costello, Katina Fowler

Jim Wadlington, Drew Mallette, Paul Tackett 82

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An engagement celebration honoring Courtney Costello and Tommy Wright was held recently in the home of Sandra and Trip Barnes. Co-hosts and hostesses were Melissa and Ron Applewhite, Carole and Hall Bailey, Joy and Donnie Cannada, Joyce and James Corbett, Barb and Ned Currie, Tana and Howard Graham, Nina and Carey Johnston, Gail and Rob Jones, Charlotte

Lacey and Gunter Cain

and Richard McNeel, Emily and John McVey, Nancy and Billy Mink, Alice and Mark Nicholas, Sylvia and Frank Page, Mae and George Patton, Janie and Joe Purvis, Sally and Jeff Randall, Cynthia Strahan Sheridan, Doug and Ernie Strahan, Rebecca and Robert Watson, Cheryl and Dow Welch, Laura Damon, Walter Wofford, and Jamie and Ellis Wright.

Jamie Wright and Deetsa Molpus

Sally Randall, Jamie Wright, Janie Purvis, Sylvia Page, Doug Strahan, Gail Jones, Barb Currie, Mae Patton, Joyce Corbett, Tana Graham, Sandra Barnes, Carole Bailey, Melissa Applewhite, Alice Nicholas, Laura Wofford, Nina Johnston, Cheryl Welch, Cynthia Sheridan, Emily McVey

Ernie and June Strahan, Tommy Wright, Courtney Costello, Nancy, Tom and Kelly Wright

Leigh and Michael Monroe

Sandra and Trip Barnes, Nancy and Tom Wright, Gail and Rob Jones, Laura Wofford

Emily McVey, Laura Wofford, Barb Currie, Janie Purvis

Tracy and Lindsey Costello, Verline Olinde

Ernie and Doug Strahan, Ernie and June Strahan, Cynthia Sheridan, Nancy and Tom Wright

Donnie Cannada, Cheryl and Cal Wells, Jeff Randall

Michael Starling, Rachel Allen, John Spencer

Lauren and David Chase

Nancy Wright, Carol Costello, Lisa Sledge

Ellen McCay, Alice Nicholas, Lisa Sledge may 2012

PARTIES A N D

C E L E B R A T I O N S

Katherine Barkett and Adam Byrd engagement party

Jessica Donald, Tammy Gandy, Daphne Donald, Lauri and India Byrd, Brenda Tambraino, Ginger Aldridge, Rhonda Harris

engagement party

Adam Byrd, Paula Strange, Katherine Barkett

Lavonne and Beebe Bruckner

Lee Yelverton, Kelsey Griffin, Parker Litchliter 84

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An engagement party honoring Katherine Barkett and Adam Byrd was held in the home of Drs. Thad and Paula Strange. The bride-elect is the daughter of Dr. Linda Barkett and Michael Ellis Barkett. The prospective bridegroom is the son of Dr. Tommy and Lauri Byrd. Co-hosts and hostesses were Becky and Stewart Barry, Janie and Mark Bowen, Tandy and Bob Boyte, Beebe Bruckner, Lavonne Bruckner, Cissy and Mike Carter, Peggy and Tom Coleman, Cori

Teresa Duncan, Beth Moore

and Gerry Holaday, Ginny Lloyd, Janet and Steve Magee, Stacy and Stanley Mangum, Mary Jane and Kirk McDaniel, Trudy and Sidney McLaurin, Dawn and Nelson Pope, Sherry and Ken Powell, Mary Beth and Gary Reeves, Loraine Simpson, Suthin and Somprason Songcharoen, Mindy and Bill Tew, Betsy and John Welch, and Paula and Kenneth Vanderford. The wedding will be June 16 at 6 p.m. at Lakeland Presbyterian Church.

Carl Williams, Adam Byrd

Tommy, Lauri and Adam Byrd, Katherine, Linda and Mike Barkett

Jake and Jessica Donald, India Byrd, Conner Hemphill

Paula Strange, Linda Barkett

Mark Donald, Lauri and Tommy Byrd, Daphne Donald

India Byrd, Meagan Holaday, Tiffany Boyte, Mary Elizabeth Bowen; (front) Shelley Clark, Amanda Leigh Conner, Katherine Barkett, Cassie Means, Hannah Pettus

Dawn and Nelson Pope

Chellie Herrington, Cassie Means, Paula Vanderford, Lavonne Bruckner

Joan Shamburger, Katherine Barkett, John Shamburger, Adam Byrd

Paula Strange, Mike and Sissy Carter

Tiffany Boyte, Katherine Barkett, Meagan Holaday may 2012

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PARTIES A N D

C E L E B R A T I O N S

Joe Morrisâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; 60th birthday brunch

Deaver Collins, John Allin, Joe Morris, Betty Allin, Marsha Cannon, Rebecca Collins

birthday brunch Camille, Sarah and Joe Morris

Robin and Ed Kennedy

Mary Eliza and Howard McMillan

Northsider Joe Morris celebrated his 60th birthday with a Sunday brunch in Raymond. The event was held at the Porter House. A bed and breakfast, the house originally was located on a farm located off Highway 18, owned by the Morris and Buie families. Several years ago Jeannie and Bob Chunn

moved the antebellum house to a lot in Raymond and opened it as a bed and breakfast. Family and close friends helped the honoree mark his birthday. Through the years the house has been the setting for many parties hosted by Morris.

Frank Wood, Andy Sweat, Joe Morris, Will Goodman, Rick Cavett, Robert Evans

Tommy and Elizabeth Lyles, Celia Wood, Susan Womack may 2012

Elise Buie, Margery and Bill Underwood

Karen Redhead, Joe Morris

Shirley Clark, Ann Bailey

Frank Parent, Sammy Moon

Bill and Camille Morris

Andy and Jimmye Sweat, Joe Morris 90

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Ree Walden, Mike Bishop

Will and Tommie Goodman

Sarah, Amelia, Bowen and (front) Susan Morris

Melissa and Rick Cavett

Jeannie and Bob Chunn

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EVENTS w h a t â&#x20AC;&#x2122; s

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Monique Davis, Grady Griffin

STEEL CHEF MISSISSIPPI Chefs from around the metro area honored the late Jackson restaurateur Craig Noone at the King Edward Hotel. Five local chefs held demonstrations during the Steel Chef Mississippi fund-raiser for the Community Place Nursing Home's relocation from Jackson to Pearl.

Jim Bowles, Eric and Caroline Peters

Emily Chalk, Mike Quinn, Zachary Waters

Rocky Zachary, Melanie Walley, Chuck Morris

Simon and Terry Marks Lena Causey, George French Jim and Dean Archer, Prentiss Morris

Bill and Noni Buchanan, Su and Chuck Morris

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Cheryl and Brian Carlew

Blanche Reed, Michelle Daniel, Kim Rayburn, Jessica Honan

STEEL CHEF MISSISSIPPI Angela East, Monica Cochran

Mary Ann and Chris Bourn

Becky Lowe, Sandy Gates Paulette McCants, Lauren Osborne, Mondria Sheriff

Christy Byrd, Kate Tate, Alahna Stewart, Jane Bell

Stephanie McMullan, Amy Mardis

Courtney Yarbrough, Tammy and Wendell Phillips

Nicole Fore, Mike Reese

Judy Gaddy, Kenosha Williams

Kris Cole, Fred Ferguson, Lynn Wentworth

Marcia Stanley, Heather Roemhild

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Margaret Phillips, Yvonne Sorge

HINDS COUNTY REPUBLICAN WOMEN The Hinds County Republican Women held its annual membership luncheon recently. New officers installed include Mary Lea Hagan, secretary; Sandee Reynoldson, assistant treasurer; Kay Gex, treasurer; Anna Royston, president-elect; and Mary Landin, president. Dixie Ball, Billy Henry, Lolita Hannon

Buena Lee Huff, Kay Gex, Cynthia Temples Sandy Norton, Genie Wheeler, Buena Lee Huff, Mary Landin

Mary Lea Hagan, Sandee Reynoldson, Kay Gex, Rita Wray, Anna Royston, Mary Landin Delta Walton, Marjorie Murley

Genie Wheeler, Faith Koger, Elaine Saxton Ruth Tant, Gayle Papa, Cora Jeanne Miller

Michelle Hawkins, Gayle Papa, Ginger Whitwell

Brenda Donnell, Jane Hewes, Sandee Reynoldson

Jan Mounger, Chris Yates 94

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SOLITARIO ART RECEPTION An art reception was held at Gallery 119 recently for New Orleans artist Billy Solitario.

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Mike and Deb Lightsey

Phil Fisher, Kit Prestridge, Mike Nunnery

Derek Sparger, Billy Solitario, Melissa Neville, Mike Nunnery

David and Vicki Armstrong

Clyde Ott, Mitchell Davis

VA Patterson, Billy Solitario

Mike McRee, Loraine Broocks

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Bill Durham, Bouncer Robertson

REBEL CLUB The Rebel Club of Jackson met earlier this year at Table 100. The group are supporters of the University of Mississippi and gather for updates and news from Ole Miss. Bill Richardson, Mike Brown

Matt Glover, Karen Keck, Will Carter Charles and Jayne Stevens

Ralph Yelvertson, Neal McCready

Hamp Dye, Tab Turner

Mary Lou, Glenda and Charles Smith

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Mike Brown, Joe Patterson, Wilson Hudson

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REUNION TOUR OF HOMES The Madison home of Mac and Paula Long was the setting for a party honoring the six couples who opened their homes to the public for the 2011 Reunion Christmas Tour of Homes. An annual event of the nonprofit Reunion Foundation, the tour has raised more than $65,000 for local charities since it was started a year ago.

Lisa and John Dent

Tammy and Chris Savell

Paula and Mac Long

Alicen and EJ Blanchard Marty Smith, Lisa McClintock, Paula Long, Sylvia Caples

Lisa Dent, Janie Mills, Paula Hughes, Peyton Hutchinson, Katie Gnemi, Alicen Blanchard Paula and Chris Hughes

Marty Smith, Janie Mills

Jay Morgan, Sonia Hankins

Kevin and Sonia Hankins, Jay and Lou Ann Morgan 98

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Chris Hughes, Charles McClintock, Robbie Pendleton

Matt and Janie Mills

Lou Ann Morgan, Mindy Collins.

REUNION TOUR OF HOMES Peyton and Burney Hutchinson

Robbie and Cathy Pendleton

Steven and Amy Dear

David and Kim Humphreys

e love a good party and so do our readers!

Don’t let your party end when the guests go home. Keep it going by submitting pictures from it to The Northside Sun Magazine. It’s Easy. Just make sure when using a digital camera to have the setting at the highest resolution possible and e-mail them to us or submit a CD. Or the old fashioned way using film prints still works great!!! Type up something about the fun event and identify everyone in the photos and it’s done. And remember we like photos exclusive to us.

Still have questions? Gives us a call: 957-1123 or e-mail jimmye@northsidesun.com may 2012

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JACKSON ACADEMY BOOK SIGNING Jackson Academy held a book signing and reception recently in the school library for the book, “Jackson Academy: The First Fifty Years, 1959-2009,” by Mary Queen Donnelly with Don Breazeale. Janet Ellis, Lynn Green

Harriett Eppes, Tina and Bubba Shaw

Sheila Keyes, Patrice Worley

Karen Loden, Lynne Brennan, Jane Lee, Bronwyn Burford

Peter Jernberg, Ray Stevens, Pat Taylor, Glenn Cain

Alice Levy, Bronwyn Burford

Bill Johnson, Michelle Mills

Mike, Kelly and Benton Green

Don Breazeale, Joe Maxwell, Mary Queen Donnelly

Glenn Cain, Millie and Ray Higgins 100

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Glenn Cain, Alice Levy

JACKSON ACADEMY BOOK SIGNING

Mary Ratcliff, Anthony Shelton, Alan Futvoye, Billy Skipper Grogan, Bill King

Harriett Eppes, Pat Jernberg, David and Nancy Sykes

Becky Greer, Barkie Crosland, Kicker Hull, Marimae Coleman, Cliff King

Linda and Gus Purviance, Judy Arnold, Josh Dehmer

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DEBUTANTE MOTHERS CLUB OF MISSISSIPPI The Debutante Mothers Club of Mississippi hosted a luncheon recently at the Country Club of Jackson. Officers of the club are Deborah Allen, recording secretary; Becky Ivison, president; Susie Brabec, corresponding secretary; Cathy May, publicity chairman; Sandy Brooks, advisor; Cheryl Wells, second vice president; Cindy Spencer, historian; Kay Patterson, first vice president; and Gay Drake, treasurer. Ree Walden, Kathy Henry, Sandy Black

Shannon Collins, Brighid McIntire

Kathy Wakeland, Misty Monroe

Maury Ball, Frances Cole, Marty May, Anna Liddell Cindy Spencer, Anita Alexander

Ann McKee, Frances Walton, Robin Tucker, Kelley Fenelon Jill Gunn, Maury Ball, Shari Culver

Cheryl Anthony, Holly Buchanan, Angie Corbin

Melissa Murphree, Debye Haick, Stacie Crim

Karen Bush, Sandra Holcomb, Holly Buchanan 102

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Jane Jones, Karen York

DEBUTANTE MOTHERS CLUB OF MISSISSIPPI Emma George Hamilton, Mary Ellen Dillard

Jane Taylor, Cheryl Miller, Jenny Taylor

Caroline and Diane Kemp

Cheryl Wells, Cindy Spencer, Becky Ivison, Sandy Brooks

Kathy Henry, Anita Alexander, Frances Cole Kay Rockett, Barbara Rockett Boone

Ann Holifield, Martha Grace Gray Cheryl Miller, Wesla Leech

Mary Anne Lefoldt, Lisa Nowell

Beckie Haltom, Stacie Crim, Ann Holifield Rivers Lurate, Shannon Collins

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Lena and Chuck Barlow

THE GARDEN AND GUN CLUB The Garden and Gun Club traveled to Jackson for a members-only sporting clays tournament held at Providence Hill Plantation. The weekend was kicked off with a reception hosted by Circle Seven Outpost and Provisions. Heather Miles, Leah Patch, Lila Sessums

William Thompson, David Barton, Sara Jones, Becky and Eddie Briggs, Martha Barton

Paul and Angela McPhail

Lesa and Don Stanfill, Dana Cowart

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David and Ginger Holcomb, Will Pace

Chris Hunter, Kate and Will Pace, Nancy Carmody, Harrison Gilchrist, Jessica Derrick

Rowell and Rhonda Saunders, Will Pace

Shannon Garner, Casey McGraw, Stacy Putnam

Mack Henry, Ann Pace, Joe Ivey

Clay and Lucy Coker

THE GARDEN AND GUN CLUB Greg Atwood, Lena and Chuck Barlow

Marge, Ben and Hope Johnson

Fed and Jude Muse Doc, Ann, Kate and Will Pace, Robert and Lila Sessums

Lyn and Breck Hines

Sheila Cowart, Lesa Stanfill, Dana Cowart, Marita and Ben Walton

Kate and Will Pace

Sam Coker, Ann Pace, Jan Coker Derek and Heather Miles, Leigh Bailey, Jamie Redmond

Beth, Ed, and Georgia Jordan, David Burd

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STARRY NIGHT GALA The 2011 Starry Night Gala benefiting St. Anthony Catholic School was held recently at the school. The evening featured music from Moâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Money Band, an auction, a chance to win $5,000 as well as a designer showcase displaying decorating talents of local designers. Laura Miller, Tara Engels, Alicia Baladi

Frank Owen, Connie and Rick Moore

Steve and Gena Martens

TJ and Michele Sypniewski, Jason Walanta, Elizabeth Brooks

Dave and Dawn Clements, Henry Michel, Jennifer Rodgers

Midge Bridges, Stephanie Word

Leigh Wright, Gail Pittman, David Wright

Elise Jones, Brother Lucian, Aimee Burns Carol and Robert Walker

Dawn Clements, Donna McCarthy, Theresa Wooten 106

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Dan and Janet Artman, Barbara Tuminello

STARRY NIGHT GALA Jamie and Susan Stringer

Tonya Galtney, Benjamin and Eloise Jackson

Julie Benson, Jill Conkin

Brother Lucian, Bob Rasmussen, Gilbert and Clare Van Loon, Lisa and Patrick Harmon

Monica and David Short, Ricky and Lisa Byrd Susan Walker, Tammy Smith

Jobe and Priscilla Maynor

Yvonne Rogers, the Rev. Shannon Manning, Ricky Manning

Trent and Sara Dismuke

Margaret Williams, Noreen Bozeman, Bridgit and Derek Hlavac

Ronald and Theresa Wooten may 2012

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STARRY NIGHT GALA Heather and Frank Eckert

Terry and Frances Addy

Dawn DeArmond, Evelyn Palmer

Nancy Thompson, Angie Brunini, Marjorie and Paul Thompson

Jason and Shanda Walenta, Pat and Darlene Scanlon

Sheila and Tony Jeff

Robert Pooley, Amy See Martha and Bill Roach

John and Amy Hornback, Leigh Wright

Kramer and Rinna Stovall

Amanda Williams, Theresa Prejean, Julie Christopher 108

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SISTER DOROTHEA RETIREMENT Sister Dorothea Sondgeroth recently retired as president/CEO of St. Dominic Health Services. A reception honoring her was held in the hospitalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s medical mall. Sister Dorothea served as president for 16 years.

Jim and Suzanne Almas

Jane and Ralph Lord, Robbie Hughes

Mary Louise and Arthur Jones, Becky Lowe, Brenda and David Chandler

Becky Traweek, Scherry Gilliland, Jenny and Hank Holeman

Eric and Lynda Balfour, Marsha and Tommy James

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Phoebe Smith-Porter, Kip Rollins

Lester Diamond, Sister Rose Marie Riley, Sister Rebecca Gemma, Tod Etheredge

Cathy and Joey Havens, Margee and Collins Wohner

Bennie Butts, Paul Arrington, Nell and Buster Mobley, Jennifer Sinclair

SISTER DOROTHEA RETIREMENT Song Songcharoen, Sam Walker, Su Songcharoen, Cammie and William Robert Smith

Sharon Prestridge, Ellen and Richard Ambrosino, Harold Lowery

Barbara Brunini, Harvey Johnson, Carolyn and John Harris

Dan and Judy Grafton, Cathy and Tom Johnson, Jennifer Sinclair

Mike Cottingham, Nancy and Bill Howard, Elizabeth Cottingham

Judy Grafton, Sister Dorothea, Dan Grafton

Lamar and Nanette Weems

Angie McNamara, Lauri Collins, David McNamara

Andy Bishop, Sister Karina Dickey, Teresa Hayes

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BALLET MISSISSIPPI SPONSOR PARTY Ballet Mississippi hosted its annual sponsor party for “The Nutcracker” recently at Thalia Mara Hall. Guests were given the opportunity to meet with the dancers plus recognize sponsors.

Brenda and Brynnan Man

Andy and Sierra Halstead

Maury and Lauren Breazeale

Kelley Fenelon, Libba Wilkes, Cheryl Miller, Mary Scott Shepherd

Lisa, Jim, and Cora Jean Miller, Mae Eleanor Scott Shannon and James Warnock, Jennifer Mitchell

Beth and Mark Davis

John David Ridge, Collins Wohner, William Fulton Blaine Hoven, Allison and Haley Fisakerly

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Gerrie McElroy, Millie and Brad Clanton

Whit Rayner, Lex Taylor

BALLET MISSISSIPPI SPONSOR PARTY Lee Parker, Suzie and Randy Poole

Bethaney Nelson, Bill Philip, Leisa McElreath

Dennis Miller, Tony Shepherd Jake and Heidi Odom, Beverly and Mark Rester

Amanda Smithers, Justin Bennett, Kari Grillis, Cindy Boyette

John and Laurie Raines

Angie Nobel, Shawn Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Mara

Whit Rayner, Mary Scott Shepherd, Debbie Rayner, David Keary

Cherri Barnett, David Keary, Millie Clanton

Amy Halstead, Tony and Preston DiFatta

Jim Miller, Susan Hamilton

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REMBRANDT SOCIETY DINNER The Mississippi Museum of Art honored its highest level of donors at the 24th annual Rembrandt Society Dinner. Guests enjoyed a seated dinner prepared by Luis Bruno, executive chef of The Palette Café by Viking.

Claire and Greg Frascogna

Bill and Liz Brister, Betsy Bradley

Ryan Byrne, Jack Garner

Michelle and Robert Alexander, Doug and Kathe Levanway

Bud and Judy Robinson, Kay and Charles Mortimer

Peder and Jennifer Johnson, Sandra and Murray Underwood Gloria Walker, Jerry Host

Vaughan and Nora Frances McRae, Eason and Ellen Leake Jean Yarbrough, Jane Hiatt

Kitty Rushing, Tommy Etheridge may 2012

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ZOO PARTY The Jackson Zoo hosted ZooParty Unleashed at Duling Hall in Fondren. The evening featured music from Jesse Robinson and Blue Mountain. The annual event benefits the zoo. Drew and Kimberly Cleland, Cal Wells

Ivy Davis, Elizabeth Gelmer, Sarah Smith

Shannon Nesler, Amy Boone Nathan Lott, Will Garner, Matthew Ingram; (front) Melissa Lott, Carley Garner, Morgan Ingram

Jeff Pedigo, Blakeney Smith, Robby Chamblee, Julie Spenser Melissa Lott, Carley Garner, Morgan Ingram

Anne Grinnan, Becky Olthof, Joel Sanch

Margo and W.D. Heath Bert Worley, Chris Monsour

Catlin Starrett, Holly Smith

Fred and Sandi Cavett 116

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ZOO PARTY Lachelle Ahsley, Cecilia Rodriguez

Tori Maiwalt, Ryan Morrison

Sharon Thomas, Felicia Brookins, Samantha Howell Kelley and Brad Gatlin, Wilson Holifield, Russell Dearman

Steven Lewis, Ryves Moore, Peyton Hines, Jim Griffith

Beverly Belding, Sam Wells

Rodale Hall, Beth Poff

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ISRAELI RECEPTION The Jewish Community of Jackson together with Opher Aviran, the Consul General of Israel to the Southeast, hosted a reception recently for Gov. Phil Bryant at the Fairview Inn. Music was presented by jazz pianist Ruslan Sirota, featuring singer-songwriter Rick Coffey and vocalist Lisa Palmer. Cheryl Katz, Lynda and Eric Balfour

Gayle Wicker, Yoko and Hiroshi Sato

Denny Burks, Lisa Palmer Rabbi Valerie Cohen, Rebecca Laskin, Judy and Richard Stamm

Karen Freeman, Maj. Gen. Bill Freeman, Randy and Lea Rushing

Josh Bower, Adam Abrams, Krista Bower

Richard and Judy Stamm

Tamar and Peter Sharp Angela Ladner, Jo Ann Gordon

Jean Comley, Dempsey Ladner

Sarah Johnson, Malcolm White 118

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ISRAELI RECEPTION Marla Habor, Don Fauntleroy

Lutz H. Gorgens, Jesssica Upshar, Emerson Robinson

Gloria Harvey, Marcy Cohen

Gregg Harper, Gov. Phil Bryant, Margaret Rogers, Roger Wicker, Wanda Jennings

Gandy Thomas, Leslie Thomas-Gonzales, Jean and Hillman Frazier, Marsha Hamilton Angela and David Eudry

Patrick Bryant, Sydney Naylor, Katie Bryant, Rita Martinson, Stephen Snell

Joseph and Sherry Chen

Annelle, Raymond and Allison Saucier

Ellen Hart, Ginger Williamson, Opher Aviran, Karen Isenberg Jones, Adam Abrams may 2012

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BOOKFRIENDS The University Press of Mississippi Bookfriends recently held its annual membership party at the Fairview Inn. The party featured a silent auction, food and drink, and a book signing by “One Writer’s Garden” author Susan Haltom and photographer Langdon Clay. Frances and Cooper Morrison, Judy Wiener

Leila Salisbury, Hunter Cole, Seetha Srinivasan

Donny, Caroline and Andy White

Fletcher and Carol Cox, JoAnne Prichard Morris, Dan Hise Frances Morrison, Courtney Collins

Langdon Clay, Susan Haltom

Michael and Evelyn Jefcoat, Karen Redhead, Virginia Youngblood

Reuel and Marjorie May, Coleman Lowery

Tim Medley, Jack Conway, Asoke Srinivasan

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Robin Webb, Anthony Cloy

HEARTS AGAINST AIDS The Mississippi HeARTS Against AIDS held their 20th anniversary benefit recently at Hal and Mal’s. The annual benefit is the largest fund-raiser in Mississippi for HIV / AIDS related issues. Poster art for this year’s event was by William Goodman. Caitlyn Sullivan, Sadaaf Manoon, Caron Byrd

Jason and Hope Anderson, Andrea Kelly, Robert Presley

Lana Giessinger, Barbara Beibers

David Thrash, Micah Varner, Jamie Martin

Bebe Case, Keith Treadway

Sonny Ruff, Mary Ellen Snow, Ray Welborn, Phil McSparin

Don and Jenny Foote, Chris Snow

David Norris, Landon Phillips, Ritchie Miller

Sarah French, Zach Robertson, David Norris

Jennifer Kimborough, Wendy Gust

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