Ole Miss Alumni Review - Winter 2011 by Ole Miss Alumni Association

OLE MISS ALUMNI REVIEW

Winter 2011

WINTER 2011

Lights, Camera... Oxford! Alumni play major role in Oxford Film Festival

Business grad creates ads for captive audience VOL. 60 N O. 1

Center for Manufacturing Excellence prepares students for high-tech careers

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The University of Mississippi Alumni Association P.O. Box 1848 University, MS 38677-1848 (662) 915-7375 www.olemissalumni.com

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Winter 2011

Vol. 60 No. 1

features

18 Lights, Camera... Oxford! ON THE COVER

Oxford Film Festival creates buzz. BY TOM SPEED

26Groundbreaking Center

departments 6 FROM THE CIRCLE

The latest on Ole Miss students, faculty, staff and friends

Center for Manufacturing Excellence prepares students for high-tech careers.

16 CALENDAR

BY DEBORAH PURNELL

40 SPORTS

32 ADdressing a Need Business grad designs ads for captive audience. BY MICHAEL HARRELSON

36 Of Books Old & New and Red & Blue University’s freshman handbook stands test of time. BY JIM URBANEK

Volleyball player makes history Student-athletes among Who’s Who Former Rebel earns LPGA tour card Rebels picked twice for ESPNU

44 ARTS AND CULTURE 46 TRAVEL 50 ALUMNI NEWS On the cover: The ‘Hoka,’ a statuette created by local artist Bill Beckwith (BFA 74), is the Oxford Film Festival’s version of the ‘Oscar.’ Photo by Danny Klimetz

Ole Miss Alumni Review P ublisher ublisher Warner L. Alford (60) Timothy Walsh (83) Editor Editor Jim Urbanek II (02) Jim Urbanek II (97) jim@olemiss.edu jim@olemiss.edu Creative Director A ssociate ditor and SabrinaEBrown A dvertising Director Designers Tom Speed (91) ? tom@olemiss.edu CEontributing Editor ditorial A ssistant Benita Whitehorn Macaulay Knight C orrespondents Editorial A ssistant ? Irvine Brandon Designer Eric Summers C orrespondents Kevin Bain (98), Tobie Baker (96), Rebecca Lauck Cleary (97), Lexi Combs, A dvertising R epresentative Mitchell Diggs (82), Jay Ferchaud, Cristen Hemmins (MA 96) Michael Harrelson, Robert Jordan (83), 662-236-1700 Nathan Latil, Jack Mazurak, Officers of The University Deborah Purnell (MA 02) of M ississippi A lumni A ssociation Edwin Smith (80), Matt Westerfield Chance Laws (63), president Officers of The University of M ississippi A lumni A ssociation David McCormick (77), president-elect Bill May (79), Rose Jackson Flenorl (79), president vice president Richard Noble (68), John T. Cossar (61), president-elect athletics committee member Larry Bryan (74), Roger Friou (56), vice president athletics committee member Mike Glenn (77), A lumni A ffairs Staff, O xford athletics committee member Warner Alford (60), executive director Sam LaneCarmean (76), Wendy Chambers (97), assistant for marketing athleticsdirector committee member Clay Cavett (86), associate director A lumni A ffairs Staff, O xford Josh Davis (99), assistant director Timothly L. Walsh (83), executive director Martha Dollarhide, systems programmer II Joseph Baumbaugh, systems analyst III Sheila Dossett (75), assistant director Clay Cavett (86), associate director Annette Kelly (79), accountant Martha Dollarhide, systems programmer II David Gilmore, systems I Sheila Dossett (75), senioranalyst associate Robert Radice, directormanager, The Inn at Ole Miss director Julian Gilner (04), assistant Scott Thompson (97), alumni Sarah Kathryn M. Hickmanassistant,  (03), assistantclub coordinator director for marketing Jim Urbanek II (02), Port Kaigler (06), alumni assistant and assistant director for communications club coordinator Tim Annette Walsh (83), senior director Kelly (79),associate accountant Rusty Woods (01), editor Tom Speed (91), publications assistant director for information services Scott Thompson (97), assistant director James Butler(97), (60),assistant directordirector emeritusfor Jim Urbanek Herbert E. Dewees Jr. (65), communications executive(01), director emeritus Rusty Woods assistant director for information services A lumni A ffairs Staff, Jackson James Butler (53), director emeritus Geoffrey Mitchell (70), alumni director Warner Alford (60),(77), executive director Ginger Roby Daniels assistant director emeritus The Ole Miss Alumni Review (USPS

The561-870) Ole Miss Alumni Reviewquarterly (USPS 561-870) is published by is published quarterly by The University of The University of Mississippi Alumni Mississippi Alumni the Office Association and Association the Officeand of Alumni of AlumniAlumni Affairs. Alumni Association offices Affairs. Association offices are are located at Triplett Alumni Center, located at Triplett Alumni Center, Room 651University, Grove Loop,MS University, 38677. 172, 38677.MS Telephone Telephone 662-915-7375. 662-915-7375. 2451T AA-10504

2 Alumni Review

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Chancellor Dear Alumni and Friends, The University of Mississippi, as all universities, has a great and noble mission centered on knowledge. Our university community is focused on transfer of knowledge through our programs of education; creation of new knowledge through research; cultivation of new ideas through the arts and humanities; and the use of knowledge to transform lives through our service mission. For centuries, societies have organized to educate the next generation. Aristotle noted that “all who have meditated on the art of governing mankind have been convinced that the fate of empires depends on the education of youth.” Speaking on the importance of education, Abraham Lincoln quipped, “Give me six hours to chop down a tree, and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe.” He understood the value of taking time to educate oneself, and he understood the importance to our nation of investing in education. When Mississippi Commissioner of Higher Education Hank Bounds was asked a question about our economy, he responded, “The answer to every question is education.” I agree with Dr. Bounds that the answer to all issues lies in education. When Elie Wiesel, the Nobel Peace Prize recipient and Holocaust survivor, spoke to students in the Sally McDonnell Barksdale Honors College last year, he noted that “education may not always be the only answer to any question, but it is always the best answer.” Indeed, education is the answer to our greatest needs. And those of us privileged to be a part of a university community have an opportunity and, most importantly, a responsibility to make a difference—to transform lives—beginning with ourselves and with individual students. Mississippi universities play a key role in the economic future of our state and region. Last May, The University of Mississippi and Mississippi State University formed a joint task force dedicated to enhancing economic development in Northeast Mississippi. We have already begun the process of meeting with key community participants including Northeast Mississippi’s K-12 school district superintendents, college presidents and development foundation presidents. Our universities will communicate with area developers, create a better environment for entrepreneurs, improve access to early-childhood education, as well as facilitate access to our state’s colleges and universities. Last fall, UM’s Center for Manufacturing Excellence welcomed its first class of 27 students. The class, which has an average GPA of 3.8 and an average ACT score of 30, inaugurates a center that incorporates business and engineering education into a cohesive program that prepares our students to transition into the modern manufacturing industry following graduation. With the addition of the new Toyota facility near Tupelo, the manufacturing environment in Mississippi will take a major step forward. At the CME, we will educate a high-level workforce of engineers, business people and accountants to fill much-needed leadership positions. The University of Mississippi enjoys a rich history of producing outstanding graduates who have assumed leadership responsibilities throughout our state. In the spirit of focusing on a bright future for all Mississippians, as well as our region and nation, we ask for your continued support and loyalty. Sincerely,

Daniel W. Jones Chancellor

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President Dear Alumni and Friends, At this very moment, more than 19,000 students are expanding their knowledge and horizons under the steady guidance of Ole Miss faculty and staff. Think about it. ... All of those young minds are trusting their education and careers to our great university! Ole Miss’s enrollment has increased more in the last decade than at any university in Mississippi, which has further enhanced its status as Mississippi’s flagship university. Ole Miss also is producing Phi Beta Kappa scholars, Rhodes scholars, Fulbright scholars and more, and learned writers in higher education recently have declared Ole Miss to be the “most appealing” of all of America’s flagship universities. Last year Ole Miss was recognized as the safest campus in the Southeastern Conference. Nationally, our Oxford campus was ranked the ninth safest campus and is acknowledged to be one of the most scenic and beautiful (I think it is the most beautiful), and Oxford consistently is ranked as one of the top 10 college towns. I could go on and on. I point out these things so that we all can take a step back and remind ourselves of what Ole Miss does so well—preparing our students for successful lives and careers. Are we where we want or need to be? Not yet. Just like each of you, I want to win championships in every sport. I want a world-class band program and top-tier academic schools. But, under the leadership of Chancellor Dan Jones and our outstanding faculty and staff, I’m convinced that we can and will achieve those things. First, though, we must expect them and then work toward accomplishing them together. So much of what life has given to us, we owe to Ole Miss. In 2011, let us recommit ourselves to Ole Miss as we propel our great university to continued excellence. As alumni and friends, let us dig deep with our time and resources. More than anything, let us love Ole Miss—always. On behalf of the officers and staff of your Alumni Association, I thank you for your devotion to Ole Miss and extend to you best wishes for a successful and healthy year. Go mighty Rebels,

Bill T. May (BA 79, JD 82)

4 Alumni Review

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THE LATEST ON OLE MISS STUDENTS, FACULTY, STAFF AND FRIENDS

Imagination Nation POETS ADVISE HONORS STUDENTS TO IMAGINE A BETTER WORLD

Former U.S. Poet Laureate Robert Hass reminds students at the Sally McDonnell Barksdale Honors College fall convocation that they are the talented young people who will inherit the Earth. Hass and his wife, poet Brenda Hillman, both spoke at the convocation. Photo by Nathan Latil

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fter flipping a coin to determine who would speak first, poets Brenda Hillman and Robert Hass encouraged University of Mississippi honors students to keep poetry in their lives while working for social change. Delivering the keynote address for the Sally McDonnell Barksdale Honors College fall convocation, the husband-andwife duo even sensed poetry in the event’s setting, the Ford Center for the Performing Arts. “We are in a place where Barack Obama and John McCain debated, and it is awe-inspiring,” said Hillman, winner of the coin toss. Hass, who served as U.S. Poet Laureate from 1995 to ’97, teaches at the University of California-Berkeley and is a Pulitzer Prize and National Book Award winner. Hillman, whose work has been described as eclectic, mercurial and sensuous, is one of the country’s foremost avant-garde poets. Hillman said that certain poetry skills can be useful for students, such as using the power of one’s senses, paying attention to the language that is used, getting in touch with different kinds of information and choosing some form of action to support a group. Hass reminded the students that it is their generation who will inherit the Earth, and it is up to them to pass it on better than they found it. He weaved stories about cranes in the demilitarized zone of Korea, a wildlife biologist studying birds on the California coast and the forests of Mississippi. “There’s a whole world to get to know, and part of your job is to fall in love with the Earth,” Hass said. “People can change the world, and it can be done. You can get the skills to have the power to be in the world, and then work for social change.” Freshman Kristen Ellis says she was expecting the duo to only talk about poetry, so the wide realm of topics they covered pleasantly surprised her. “To hear about political impact, as well as about literature, was not what I expected,” says Ellis. “It was very enlightening and inspiring.” AR

Senior School of Nursing students Mary Kathryn Books (left) and Katelyn Armstrong listen to the heartbeat and breathing on a patient simulator.

Good Advice STAFF, FACULTY MEMBERS RECOGNIZED FOR EXCELLENCE IN ADVISING STUDENTS

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wo University of Mississippi faculty and staff members who have consistently demonstrated excellence in advising students were selected for special recognition. Cyril “Cy” Rosenblatt, instructor in the political science department, and Erin Miller (BA 03), assistant to the dean in the Patterson School of Accountancy, are the inaugural recipients of UM’s Excellence in Advising Awards. The annual awards, one for faculty and one for staff, were established to recognize outstanding academic advising and to enhance UM’s commitment to student service.

We realize we have outstanding advisers on this campus and feel that it is important to recognize them publicly.

—KYLE ELLIS

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“This year’s winners will represent The University of Mississippi at the 2011 National Academic Advising Association Outstanding Advising Awards,” says Kyle Ellis, assistant director of the Academic Support Center. “We realize we have outstanding advisers on this campus and feel that it is important to recognize them publicly. We were pleased with the number of applications we received and look forward to even larger numbers of nominees in the future.” Rosenblatt and Miller were recognized at the fall faculty meeting and fall academic advising network meeting, respectively. Each received a cash stipend and had their names engraved on a plaque. Both expressed surprise at the announcement. “I am humbled by being selected to receive this recognition as I realize that countless other faculty [members] are more deserving than I,” Rosenblatt says. “Without their involvement and support, I would not be able to complete the advising responsibilities that I have been given. Additionally, without the constant support of the College of Liberal Arts, I would be a complete failure.” “I am truly humbled and honored to receive this award, especially in its first year,” Miller says. “I know from experience as a former student and current adviser that quality academic advising is critical to serving students well and helping them have a positive experience at Ole Miss. I feel strongly that advising is more than just scheduling classes; it’s a rewarding process of developing relationships with students. And I look forward to continuing to serve the university in this role.” AR

LAB BOASTS HIGH-TECH CLINICAL SIMULATION

sedated patient is getting a checkup from a pair of nursing students when he suddenly quits breathing. One student grabs an AMBU bag and ventilates him, while the other injects a dose of Narcan to counteract a potentially fatal overdose of morphine. Their instructor stands back and watches. It may sound like trial-by-fire learning—and that’s precisely the point— but luckily the patient’s life is not actually on the line: He was never alive to begin with. He’s a SimMan G3 highfidelity patient simulator. The life-size “mannequin” speaks, bleeds, presents at least 60 different health scenarios and is the latest addition to the School of Nursing’s simulation lab. “Simulation is a bridge between didactic and clinical instruction,” says Dr. Jan Cooper (BSN 99, MSN 00), assistant professor of nursing and director of the Clinical Simulation Center. “They can’t hurt anyone here, but we can show them the outcomes of their interventions.” The heavy demand for RNs nationwide, combined with Mississippi’s unique health care disparities, means that nurses entering the workforce today must be fully prepared to face the challenges of frontline patient care. Simulation experiences are a vital part of that preparation. “In a clinical setting, we’re going to make decisions for students,” Cooper says. “But in simulation, we can step back and make them think for themselves. That’s hard to teach.” AR

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Under the Sea BAHAMAS UNDERWATER LABORATORY OFFERS CAREER-CHANGING EXPERIENCE

Marc Slattery (standing) takes a group of students out for a morning of snorkeling on the reef. Photo by Michelle Edwards 8 Alumni Review

fter spending part of their summer exploring coral reefs in the Bahamas, several University of Mississippi students are contemplating new career choices. Researchers from UM and the University of Alabama led the students on an underwater study in a protected marine reserve off Lee Stocking Island, part of the Great Exuma chain of the Bahama Islands. Funded by the National Institute for Undersea Science and Technology, part of NOAA’s Office of Ocean Exploration and Research at Ole Miss, the aim was to motivate a new generation to explore the continued survival of coral reefs. “This was a great opportunity to give our students an introduction to the tropics, something they would probably not be able to do otherwise,” says NIUST Executive Director Ray Highsmith. “I was lucky as an undergraduate to be taken to a wonderful tropical coral reef as a research assistant, and it changed my life. I’ll be surprised if that doesn’t happen to some of these students.” One of the most diverse, richest ecosystems on the planet, coral reefs are threatened by pollution, climate change and human activities. The risks of coral reef extinction are so real that marine biologists worldwide are frantically studying the problem. “Coral reefs help provide food and medications along with other goods and services to hundreds of millions of people worldwide, yet they are disappearing at alarming rates,” says UM Pharmacognosy Professor Marc Slattery, an expert on briny invertebrates and algae. “The Caribbean is a biodiversity hot spot, and without study, they, too, may be lost to future generations.” This summer, the team examined reefs submerged 200 to 300 feet below the surface, depths overlooked by prior surveys, says Slattery, director of NIUST’s Ocean Biotechnology Center and Repository. Slattery hopes to discover new pharmaceutical compounds from coral reef organisms. In addition to scuba diving and snorkeling up to three hours for daily afternoon fieldwork, the typical day onshore included morning laboratory experiments and nightcap lectures. “The course was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” says Mallory Johnson, a 21-year-old first-year UM pharmacy student from Brookhaven. “I was able to visualize, firsthand, the process of developing potential pharmaceuticals from the marine environment.” AR

PROFESSOR FIRST TO WIN PRESTIGIOUS AWARD TWICE

UM volunteer writing consultants Amber Lowe (left), Brannon Miller, Camille Lesseig, Cody LeBlanc and Joshua Hamer recently began their service-learning project at the Oxford-Lafayette County Public Library. They will assist library patrons with writing and also record personal stories for the One Book, One Community project.

The Write Stuff WRITING CENTER, LOCAL LIBRARY LAUNCH COMMUNITY WRITING CENTER

he University of Mississippi Writing Center has joined the Oxford-Lafayette County Public Library to help improve writing skills throughout the community. The Community Writing Center, housed in the conference room of the public library at 401 Bramlett Blvd., is staffed 10 hours per week by UM Writing Center student tutors. Tutors are available from 5-7 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays and 3-5 p.m. on Sundays. “Our purpose is to assist community members with writing,” says Brenda Robertson (MA 92), University Writing Center director. “It is a service project developed by our center and the Oxford Public Library, with the support of Hildreth Davis, Americorps VISTA (Volunteer in Service to America) in the College of Liberal Arts.” Members of the Writing Center staff have volunteered to work with public library patrons to improve general writing skills, to address specific questions about documents and to record personal stories in the One Book, One Community project. Initial assistance will focus on helping people to write resumes and cover letters, which was identified by library staff as the most critical need, Robertson says. “Patrons are always approaching library staff to proof their resumes and other writing,” says Dorothy Fitts (MLS 71), director of the Oxford-Lafayette County Public Library. “The staff is untrained and therefore unable to provide that kind of assistance. This writing center is a value-added service to the community in these tough economic times.” Writing workshops for memoirs and creative writing, as well as civic letter writing, also are planned. AR

eventeen years ago, Charles Eagles received a Lillian Smith Award for his extensively researched book about the civil rights movement in Alabama. The University of Mississippi history professor earned the honor again in September, this time for his work chronicling events leading to the integration of Ole Miss nearly 50 years ago. He is the first scholar to win the Smith award twice. Eagles accepted the award for nonfiction at the 2010 Atlanta Journal-Constitution Decatur Book Festival. His book, The Price of Defiance: James Meredith and the Integration of Ole Miss (University of North Carolina Press, Charles Eagles 2009), also received the 2010 nonfiction award from the Mississippi Institute of Arts and Letters and the McLemore Prize from the Mississippi Historical Society. The William F. Winter Professor of History, Eagles previously won the Smith Award for Outside Agitator: Jon Daniels and the Movement in Alabama (UNC Press, 1993). “Dr. Eagles is a nationally known historian whose work has long been recognized at the highest levels,” says Glenn Hopkins, dean of the College of Liberal Arts. “Winning the Lillian Smith Award, for the second time yet, serves to emphasize his important standing in the community of academic historians. We are most fortunate to have him on our faculty.” “It is no coincidence that Professor Eagles, who has now received two Lillian Smith awards for his original contributions to knowledge, also won a 2010 Frist Student Service Award for his dedicated and exemplary work with students,” says Joseph Ward, chair of the Department of History. A graduate of Presbyterian College and the University of North Carolina, Eagles has taught at UM since 1983. The Lillian Smith Award was established by the Atlanta-based Southern Regional Council shortly after the death of the Georgia author in 1966. The award is presented annually to authors whose books are outstanding creative achievements that demonstrate through literary merit and moral vision an honest representation of the South, its people, problems and promises. AR

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Circle SOCIAL WORK PROGRAM LINKS STUDENTS, ELDERLY

s more people live longer, the need for geriatric service providers is growing exponentially. At the moment, not enough social work students opt to practice in the field, but a new experiential program established by faculty in the Department of Social Work at The University of Mississippi hopes to change that. The department has been awarded a $3,876 grant through a partnership between the Council on Social Work Education Gero-Education Center and the John A. Hartford Foundation. Over the next two years, it will involve approximately 65 students in face-to-face contact with elderly residents in selected rural communities in northeast Mississippi.

“The purpose of the program is to develop [a] sustainable curriculum and measure if the contact and activities result in changes in attitudes and decisions about selecting gerontology as a practice field,” says Susan Allen, associate professor of social work and lead faculty investigator for the project. “The ultimate goal is to increase the number of social workers who choose the field.” Students will interact with elderly residents in six classes on UM’s Tupelo campus. All students will be supervised and supported by Allen and three other faculty members serving as co-investigators on the project. “At completion, we will evaluate the impact the activities had on students selecting gerontology as a field of practice,” says Jill Shaw (BA 81), social work instructor. Students already have begun to express interest in participating. “I am excited about the continuation of this program because it addresses a population that is growing and is overlooked as a target group who needs intervention,” says Chrissy Wilburn of Mantachie. “The elderly population is going to be huge in the coming years due to the baby boomers reaching senior status. When students from the college participate in the program, whether or not they choose to work with this particular group, the older population still benefit[s] because of the socialization.” AR

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Building Opportunities SCHOOL OF PHARMACY RECEIVES $31.7 MILLION TO EXPAND NATURAL PRODUCTS RESEARCH CENTER

he University of Mississippi has received $31.7 million to expand the Thad Cochran Research Center, the primary research facility of the School of Pharmacy’s National Center for Natural Products Research. “It is exciting to see the achievement of this milestone for Ole Miss and the School of Pharmacy,” says Larry Walker, NCNPR’s director since 2001. “This is another major step toward a world-class natural products research center, as envisioned by the school’s leaders over two decades ago.” Under the National Institutes of Health’s Extramural Research Facilities Improvement Program to renovate or construct facilities supporting biomedical or behavioral research, 63 awards totaling $675 million were made. UM’s pharmacy school is the only Mississippi recipient and the nation’s only pharmacy school to receive an award. The existing facility includes auditoriums, a science library, vivarium and repository for botanical specimens, as well as sophisticated laboratories. All enabled the center’s research programs to grow steadily and its scientists to build a reputation for advancing natural products research. It also opened doors to additional funding opportunities. The second building will complete the NCNPR complex and enable researchers to translate basic research into clinical studies and commercial natural products. Its amenities will include a facility for clinical studies, an expanded specimen repository and laboratories for scaling-up extraction and synthesis of bulk natural products, determining a natural product’s toxicity and mechanism of action at the cellular level, and discovering microbial and marine natural products. “Completion of the center envisioned so long ago is finally within our grasp,” says Barbara G. Wells, the school’s dean. “This second research building will allow us to advance our research programs to the next level of accomplishment.” Originally, Phase II of NCNPR was to begin in 2010 with a fourstory superstructure with only one-and-a-half floors completed. But as time for construction began, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act provided NIH with $5 billion to create jobs while expanding research. Since the Phase II design was already complete, the school submitted a proposal to NIH describing how ARRA funding, coupled with the already secured funding, would enable the entire facility to be completed in a single construction project. Designed and engineered by Cook, Douglas, Farr and Lemons of Jackson, Phase II plans are undergoing thorough reviews. Construction is expected to begin in early 2011 and to be completed by summer 2013. AR

Kristine Willett is leading a group of studies into the biological effects of the oil spill on fish, shellfish and plant life along the Gulf Coast. Photo by Robert Jordan

Aftereffects ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY RESEARCHERS, STUDENTS WORK TO ASSESS DAMAGE FROM GULF OIL SPILL

he University of Mississippi’s graduate program in environmental toxicology began just four years ago, but the massive oil spill last spring in the Gulf of Mexico promises to provide research opportunities to keep faculty and students busy for decades.

‘

“I predict that the effects on the environment [from] the oil spill are going to be much longer-lasting than the environmental consequences of Katrina,” Willett says. The group generally has about a halfdozen research projects going at any given time, says Marc Slattery, UM pro-

We’re going to be dealing with the effects for a long time, and there is a lot of work to be done.

’

—MARC SLATTERY Several UM researchers are studying the spill’s effects on the region’s fish, shellfish and plant life. The work has serious implications for tourism, fishing and other activities across the Gulf Coast region, says Kristine Willett, associate professor of pharmacology and graduate program coordinator for the Environmental Toxicology Research Program in the School of Pharmacy.

fessor of pharmacognosy and director of the program. Willett’s research specialty is studying the effects of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, a group of chemicals that occurs naturally in fossil fuels. PAHs are also present in products made from coal or crude oil, including asphalt and creosote. Data from samples collected from

10 sites along the coast from Gulfport, Miss., to Mobile, Ala., have helped provide a benchmark against which to measure post-oil spill samples. Levels of PAHs in coastal waters increased only slightly after Katrina, but the researchers expect to see more significant increases in samples taken since the spill, Willett says. “So far, we have not seen any overt toxicity, and by that, I mean death of fish and oysters in the waters we’re sampling,” she says. “However, that’s not to say you won’t see greater effects next year. If it’s reproduction that is compromised, for example, then it’s next year’s babies that will be affected.” In many ways, this event is going to stretch our imagination and our abilities to deal with it, Slattery says. “We’re going to be dealing with the effects for a long time, and there is a lot of work to be done. We’re going to need people who are interested and qualified to take this on.” AR

Winter 2011 11

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Dr. Craig Stockmeier (left) and Dr. Ronald Duman

Circle Blue Genes

NEW STUDY SPOTLIGHTS GENETIC KEY TO IMPROVING MENTAL HEALTH

UM MORTAR BOARD HONORED NATIONALLY

he University of Mississippi’s Tassel chapter was among many outstanding chapters to be honored for excellence during the 2010 Mortar Board National Conference in Chicago. The group was awarded the Silver Torch Award, an honor given to chapters that meet management standards while demonstrating the ideals of scholarship, leadership and service. The chapter also received a Project Excellence Award for its Academic Field Day event hosted for fourth-grade students at an Oxford elementary school. The Mortar Board organization was founded in 1918, and is a national honor society recognizing college seniors for their excellence and achievement in scholarship, leadership and service. It is composed of 228 chapters with close to a quarter-of-a-million initiated members throughout the nation. The UM Tassel chapter was chartered in 1942 and currently has 50 members. AR

12 Alumni Review

euroscientists at Yale University and The University of Mississippi Medical Center, who are comparing postmortem brain samples from depressed and normal people, have spotlighted a gene that appears instrumental in the disease, giving scientists a new target for drugs and therapies. About 8 percent of Americans, or 18 million people, suffer from depression, a disease that disrupts lives and costs the U.S. economy an estimated $100 billion annually in direct and indirect costs. So deeper understanding of the cellular, genetic and molecular-level changes that happen in depression could lead to more effective treatments. Dr. Ronald Duman, professor of psychiatry and pharmacology at Yale, and Dr. Craig Stockmeier, professor of psychiatry at UMMC, co-authored the study, which was published in the November issue of Nature Medicine. The study’s lead author was Dr. Vanja Duric, a postdoctoral fellow in Duman’s lab. “We’re working to map what genes were altered in depression,” Duman says. “One key is a growth-factor signaling gene, a negative regulator called MKP-1.” Speaking recently as distinguished guest lecturer at UMMC, Duman said in contrast to long-held beliefs, recent studies show the brain can grow new neurons. To initiate and support the process, certain genes switch on and activate a signaling pathway. The spotlighted MKP-1 gene is a negative regulator of that pathway. Think of MKP-1 as half the dimmer knob for a dining-room chandelier. The more it’s turned, the darker the room. While negative regulators are important, they, too, can be overdone, as with depression—or so the study suggests. That underscores the importance of maintaining a balance, just the thing antidepressants aim to restore. “This dovetails with findings in other studies done at UMMC that show changes in the brains of depressed people,” Stockmeier says. Using different techniques to analyze two areas of the hippocampus, the researchers found significantly more up regulation of MKP-1 in the samples from depressed people—up to twice as much—as in the normal controls. For people looking to preserve and improve the health of their brains, Duman says exercise and estrogen promote up regulation of the neurongrowth-signaling pathway, whereas stress, adrenal steroids, drug abuse and age tend to inhibit it. AR

Blues Brother UM PROFESSOR, BLUES ARTIST RELEASES SUCCESSFUL ALBUM

dam Gussow never had any intention of performing a s a one-man band, but the blue s si n ger a nd h a rmonica player recently became just that, releasing a solo modern blues album to critical and commercial accolades. “I’ve always had a good strong sense of rhythm,” says Gussow, associate profe ssor of Eng lish and Southern studies at The University of Mississippi. For more than two decades, Gussow has performed as half the acclaimed blues duo of Satan and Adam, but he recently had an opportunity to step out on his own and work with Oxford producer Bryan Ward for “Kick and Stomp.” “What I’m trying to do is something that is done rarely, and that would be to be a one-man band without guitar,” Gussow says. Most bands rely on guitars to provide the rhythm, but Gussow uses his voice, an amplified blues harp and a drum to produce distinctive thump-and-metal rhythms. Since its release on Sept. 15, “Kick and Stomp” (Modern Blues Harmonica) has spent two weeks atop the rankings for MP3 downloads in Amazon.com’s “Hot New Releases in Acoustic Blues” category. Gussow, a New York native who spent many years playing on the streets of Harlem, mixes a variety of blues into his solo debut, including traditional old blues, hill country blues, urban blues, jazz blues and his own unique twist on the genre. “The material I do covers my fairly wide interests,” he says. The album includes 14 tracks, some of which are covers of Gussow’s favorites. A rendition of B.B. King’s “Everyday I Have the Blues” is one of Gussow’s favorites on the album. “When I play it, I think you really forget that there’s no guitar,” he says. “Part of what I’m doing is trying to get people to forget about what’s not there and just say, ‘Hey, that sounds great!’” Other favorites of Gussow’s include the original “Shaun’s Song,” named after his son, and “Crossroads Blues,” a renowned tune by blues legend Robert Johnson. AR

UM CENTER TRAINS POLICE, JUDGES TO CATCH CYBERCRIMINALS

s the number of cybercrimes increases nationwide, judges and law-enforcement officers are charged with knowing the most up-to-date legal principles regulating computer searches and seizures. To prevent mistrials caused by improperly obtained digital evidence, the National Center for Justice and the Rule of Law (NCJRL) at The University of Mississippi School of Law has received a $120,000 grant from Mississippi State University to develop and conduct judicial and police training conferences at both institutions. A judicial conference took place in January, and another is scheduled for Aug. 25-26 at Ole Miss, while eight police training conferences are set at MSU with NCJRL providing instructors. “This grant continues a relationship that NCJRL has had with Mississippi State for several years,” says Thomas Clancy, center director and UM professor of law. “Judges will have increased knowledge on the legal principles related to the search and seizure of computers. Police officers will be better trained on the legal requirements for obtaining digital evidence.” Having UM law faculty provide legal instruction for the training program is vital to its success, says David Dampier, associate professor and director of the Forensics Training Center at MSU. “As computer people, we understand the technical aspect of cybercrime, but we rely on Ole Miss faculty members’ legal expertise to teach what we don’t know about the law,” Dampier says. NCJRL has years of experience in cybercrime, which includes everything from identity theft and embezzlement to child pornography and terrorism. “Cybercrime is the up-and-coming crime in the country. It’s growing, and growing very fast,” Dampier says. “More and more lawenforcement agencies are being forced to deal with it, and Mississippi is no exception to the trend. Hopefully, the more lawenforcement officers we have trained, the more cybercriminals will be caught.” AR Winter 2011 13

Junior dental hygiene students Kassie Hodges (speaking) and Charlotte Allard (right) teach the basics of oral care to CNAs at Belhaven Senior Care.

Proper Brushing DENTAL HYGIENE STUDENTS TRAIN NURSING ASSISTANTS TO PROVIDE ORAL CARE

or dental hygienists, teaching people proper oral care is as much a part of the profession as actually cleaning teeth. That’s a principle dental hygiene instructor Elizabeth Carr (BS 00) reinforces to her students, and if those students can gain teaching experience while providing a community service at the same time, so much the better. The dental hygiene students in the School of Health Related Professions experienced that conf luence recently when they visited nursing homes in the area to take part in a statewide Community Oral Health Project, organized by Carr and sponsored by the Mississippi Dental Hygienists Association. In the second year of the event, following an initial pilot program, dental hygienists, instructors and students around the state visited nursing homes, where they instructed certified nursing assistants (CNAs) how to properly brush their patients’ teeth and clean dentures. According to the Mississippi Dental Practice Act, denMarc Slattery (seated in rear) takes a group of tal hygienists only are allowed to students out for a morning of snorkeling ontreat the patients when a dentist is present. But for nursing home residents who may need reef. Photo by Michelle Edwards 14 Alumni Review

assistance with brushing their teeth or cleaning their dentures, CNAs are often their only support. “CNAs are taught the basics of daily care and hygiene, but the oral-care aspect is not touched,” Carr says. “That’s where we come in because we teach our students to become teachers. This is just another aspect to their education because we are teaching them how to teach the public.” Carr said there is a mouth-body connection to oral health that makes proper care that much more important for older populations. Any given person has about 500 different species of bacteria in his or her mouth, and without regular brushing and flossing, they can lead to infection that can trigger an inflammation response in the body. Carr says mounting evidence shows chronic oral infection can lead to heart attacks, arthritis and cancer. Carr says the students enjoyed visiting the nursing homes, but some did have fears to overcome when it came to confidently teaching their expertise to other health care workers. “Our mission is to expose our students to as many types of populations as possible to make them feel like they can teach oral care to anybody,” she says. AR

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Calendar “Secrets in the Sand” Sally McDonnell Barksdale Honors College Spring Convocation FEBRUARY 24

-11 Appeal Judges Conference. UM School of Law on the Oxford campus. Coordinated by University Camps and Conferences. Call 662-915-1408.

-20 50-Year Class Reunion. UM classes of 1960, 1961, 1962 and the Lyceum Club. Various times and locations. Call 662-9157375.

Concert: Mockingbird Early Music Ensemble. Paris-Yates Chapel, 7 p.m. Call 662-8169959.

FEBRUARY

Applied Sciences Career Fair. Ford Ballroom, The Inn at Ole Miss. Time TBD. Call 662915-7375.

-13 Eighth Annual Oxford Film Festival. Various Oxford and campus locations. Visit www. oxfordfilmfest.com, or call 662-801-6007.

-12 CREATE Winter Board Meeting. The Inn at Ole Miss. Coordinated by University Camps and Conferences. Call 662915-1408.

Family Series: “Charlotte’s Web.” Ford Center for the Performing Arts, 3 p.m. Cost: $10 adults, $5 children. Call 662-915-2787.

-22 Academic Competitions: Junior

16 Alumni Review

Science and Humanities Symposium. Oxford campus. Coordinated by the Office of Pre-College Programs. Call 662-915-3034.

Ole Miss Luncheon Series: Natchez. Carriage House Restaurant, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Call 662915-7375.

Sally McDonnell Barksdale Honors College Spring Convocation. Ford Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30-9 p.m. Call 662-915-7294.

-26 Conference: Leadership Ole Miss. The Inn at Ole Miss. Call 662-915-7375, or visit www. olemissalumni.com.

-26 Academic Competitions: Academic Decathlon. Oxford campus. Sponsored by the Office of Pre-College Programs. Call 662-915-3034.

MARCH

-26 MSERA Winter Board Meeting. The Inn at Ole Miss. Coordinated by University Camps and Conferences. Call 662915-1408.

Artist Series: “Swan Lake,” Russian National Ballet. Ford Center for the Performing Arts, 8 p.m. Cost: $20-$28. Call 662-915-2787.

Academic Competitions: University of Mississippi Academic Invitational Tournament. Sponsored by the Office of Pre-College Programs. Call 662-915-3034.

Ole Miss Luncheon Series: Atlanta. Cherokee Town & Country Club, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Call 662915-7375.

Mississippi Banking Seminar. Oxford campus. Coordinated by University Camps and Conferences. Call 662-915-1408. -23 Academic Competitions: Region 7 Mississippi Science and Engineering Fair: Upper Fair (Grades 7-12), March 22; Lower Fair (Grades 1-6), March 23 on the Oxford campus. Coordinated by University Camps and Conferences and the Office of Pre-College Programs. Call 662-915-5811.

-24 Insurance Symposium. The Inn at Ole Miss, 1-5 p.m. Call 662816-6024.

School of Law Awards Day. Robert C. Khayat Law Center, 3-5 p.m. Call 662-915-6815, or e-mail clee@olemiss.edu.

-26 Pharmacy Weekend. Various

SAVE THE DATE FOR THE DAILY MISSISSIPPIAN

times and locations. Call 662-915-6815, or e-mail thompson@olemiss.edu.

Ford Series: “A Chorus Line.” Ford Center for the Performing Arts, 8 p.m. Cost: $32-$42. Call 662-915-2787.

Sixth Annual Rebelman Sprint Triathlon. Sponsored by the Department of Health, Exercise Science and Recreation Management, the triathlon includes a 400-yard swim in the Turner Center Natatorium, 12-mile bike ride through Oxford and Lafayette County and a 5K run on campus, 7 a.m.-noon. Call 828-508-5118.

APRIL

Educator Recruitment Day. More than 30 school systems will be present to discuss job opportunities within their districts. General informational fair: 8:30-10:30 a.m. Interviews: 10:40 a.m.-4 p.m. C.M. Tad Smith Coliseum.

Engineering Awards Banquet. The Inn at Ole Miss, 6 p.m. Call 662915-7375.

-9 Mississippi School of Banking. Oxford campus. Coordinated by University Camps and Conferences. Call 662-915-1408.

13th Annual Jean Jones Walk/Run for Cancer. A 2-mile walk or 5K run, beginning and ending

at the Ole Miss Union. $15 for groups of five or more, $25 for single entrants. 6:30 a.m. Student Union Plaza. Call 972-816-0907.

100th Anniversary! JUNE 17-18, 2011 Please mark your calendar and make plans to visit your classmates at The Daily Mississippian 100th Anniversary Celebration!!!

Family Series: “The Ugly Duckling,” starring Pinky Flamingo, Bits ’n Pieces Puppet Theatre. Ford Center for the Performing Arts, 3 p.m. Cost: $10 adults, $5 children. Call 662-915-2787.

The anniversary will include a Dean’s Reception & Dinner, Double Decker Tour, Catfish Cookout and more!!

Please visit the Meek School of Journalism and New Media website for updates

HTTP://MEEK.OLEMISS.EDU/

Artist Series: Chris Brubeck’s Triple Play. Ford Center for the Performing Arts, 8 p.m. Cost $15. Call 662-915-2787.

For more information, contact Julian Gilner in the Alumni Association, at (662) 915-1868 or julian@olemiss.edu or Charlie Mitchell at cdmitch1@olemiss.edu

Ole Miss Club Season: Houston, Texas. Location and time TBD. Call 662-915-7375.

Ole Miss Luncheon Series: San Antonio, Texas. Petroleum Club, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Call 662915-7375.

Ole Miss Club Season: Dallas, Texas. Location and time TBD. Call 662-915-7375.

Academic Competitions: Modern Languages Fair for high school students. Oxford campus. Sponsored by the Office of Pre-College Programs. Call 662-915-3034.

Continuing Legal Education: Law Alumni Weekend CLE Seminar. The Depot. Call 662-915-1354.

-16 Law Weekend. Various times and locations. Call 662-9156815, or e-mail thompson@ olemiss.edu.

Grove Bowl: Red/ Blue Football Game fundraiser for the J.W. “Wobble” Davidson Scholarship. Call 662-915-7375.

Performance: “The Aluminum Show.” Ford Center for the Performing Arts, 8 p.m. Cost: $20. Call 662-915-2787.

-28 Homeland Security Training Conference. Coordinated by University Camps and

Conferences. The Inn at Ole Miss. Call 662-915-1408.

Accountancy Awards Banquet. The Inn at Ole Miss, 6 p.m. Call 662-915-7375.

Second Annual Ole Miss MBA Golf Tournament. Ole Miss Golf Course, 8 a.m. Call 662915-7375, or visit www. olemissalumni.com.

Meeting: Ole Miss Alumni Association Board of Directors spring meetings. Various times and locations. Call 662-9157375.

Winter 2011 17

Lights, Camera ... OXFORD! Alumni play major role in Oxford Film Festival

by tom speed

18 Alumni Review

Winter 2011 19

Photo by Michael Stanton

Shooting takes place on the set of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The Hanging of Big Todd Wade,â&#x20AC;&#x2122; a community film produced by the Oxford Film Festival.

Most would agree that one of the Oxford-Ole Miss community’s most charming qualities is its abundance of culture: musical and theatrical performances, literary readings, lectures, arts festivals and more. To have such a wide array of offerings in such a small-town setting is unique. But eight years ago, for all that variety, one area seemingly was overlooked—filmmaking.

o with a push and a shove from the Yoknapatawpha Arts Council (YAC), the official arts agency for Oxford and Lafayette County, a group of volunteers cobbled together the Oxford Film Festival, an event as homespun and charming as Oxford itself. The idea was to showcase independent films and filmmakers, thus drawing them to Oxford while fostering a filmmaking community here. Now, eight years later, the film festival has grown to fulfill that promise and represents a vital part of the arts community in Oxford and Ole Miss. More and more filmmakers are participating, the local film community has grown and matured, major sponsors are stepping on board, and the national press is beginning to take notice.

We Have the Technology

Though the annual event would not take place without volunteers, sponsors play a major role, too. Since the beginning, the YAC has remained a steadfast supporter. Local businesses such as City Grocery Restaurant Group and Oxford Bicycle Company do their part. Other entities also lend whatever support they can. But when the UM Department of Media & Documentary Projects jumped on board as a sponsor a few years ago, the festival got a much-needed boost. “It was huge,” says Micah Ginn (BA 96), who serves a dual role as a producer director for Media & Documentary Projects and as co-director of the Oxford Film Festival. While many sponsors help the festival with cash donations, Media & Documentary Projects is one of several in-kind partners, meaning it provides services that help the festival to run more smoothly. In this case, it’s mostly equipment and expertise. The resources provided by the department have allowed the festival production team members to streamline the production process, helping them to focus their attention on other details. “The festival was spending a lot of money to rent multiple video decks,” Ginn explains. “Two or three years ago, the filmmakers were submitting in several different formats from DVD to mini-DVD, Betacam to DigiBeta, to even some people on VHS. That was cost prohibitive, and it was just messy.” With the help of Andy Harper, director of UM’s Department of Media & Documentary Projects, that changed. When the department came on board as a sponsor, festival producers 20 Alumni Review

were able to employ several powerful Macintosh computers that enabled them to digitize the entire festival. Filmmakers then submitted their films in advance, which were all digitized to the same file format and controlled from one source. Rather than having to use multiple devices to play back multiple formats, the process literally became “one touch.” This allowed for fewer people in the control booth and more people attending to other projects. Whereas there might have been up to four people in the projection booth before, now only one is needed. One of those other projects has been to involve students more, most notably with a student interview area. Journalism students from Ole Miss, with the assistance of Harper and others, are now able to conduct red carpet-style interviews of filmmakers in an interview booth, replete with cameras, lighting and backdrops courtesy of Media & Documentary Projects. That effort to promote local filmmaking ties in with Harper’s vision of expanding film studies at UM, too. The technological streamlining also has given the festival the opportunity to present a more professional-looking event, with less chance of mishap. The industry has taken notice, too. “The more people in the industry that come, the more that love it and tell people they have to go,” says Oxford Film Festival Executive Director Molly Fergusson (JD 01). “It’s good for us because we are getting better films. We’ve grown in recognition on the film-festival circuit, both by filmmakers and festival representatives.” It wasn’t always so. While the festival is now praised for its professionalism, charm and attention to detail, it started off on not much more than good intentions. The Oxford Film Festival was the brainchild of former YAC Director Elaine Abadie. She gathered together that first group of eager contributors and volunteers. With the team assembled, the Oxford Film Festival debuted with showings at Two Stick Sushi Bar and the Ford Center for the Performing Arts. Ginn says that even then, despite technical challenges, the festival was filling a need. “It’s always made sense to me from the very first year,” he says. “I’ve always felt like we’ve been doing it forever. It seemed like a perfect fit for the fabric of Oxford.”

Photo by Danny Klimetz

Actor Jason Ritter enjoys the pre-show at the Oxford Film Festival awards ceremony.

Around Town

The festival now draws more than 3,000 participants and attendees to Oxford for four days of festivities, representing yet another opportunity for tourism in the area, introducing people to the charms of Oxford and Ole Miss. This has resulted in positive press for the area and many returning visitors. Another important facet of the festival is its mission to cultivate the area’s burgeoning film community. The process is twofold. First, by attracting filmmakers to the area, the festival provides inspiration for would-be filmmakers. Secondly, the festival provides valuable workshops and essential industry networking. “Every year, we see more local films produced,” Ginn says. “And they’ve gotten better every year. You have more filmmakers and aspiring filmmakers who are gaining inspiration from, contacts from, relationships from the film festival that are benefiting them going forward as they go to their next project or start their first project. Without question, the Oxford Film Festival has really boosted the desire and the potential of filmmaking in Lafayette County and North Mississippi. People see it as something they can do.”

The industry insiders and judges who have taken to the festival over the years provide unique opportunities for aspiring auteurs. They gain inspiration from and develop the contacts that encourage them to tackle a new project and, in many cases, help them to acquire funding and expertise. Fergusson, who has worked with the festival in each of its eight years, says this element of the mission has been instrumental from day one. “All the arts were covered in Oxford, except for film,” she says. “There were some filmmakers living here, and we wanted to help them get out there and make connections.” Part of the motivation for her involvement, though, was personal. “I moved here after the Hoka closed,” she says. “There was nowhere for me to see what I was reading about. So I selfishly wanted to bring that stuff here, and that was a way to do it.” In the 1970s and ’80s, the Hoka Theater was a unique confluence of culture for small-town Oxford, housing a café and a movie theater that specialized in independent and offbeat films. Indeed, the specter of the cherished, now-defunct Oxford landmark looms large over the festival. The awards given at the Winter 2011 21

22 Alumni Review

Photo by Michael Stanton

This scene is from Oxford Film Festival co-director Melanie Addington's (MA 09) debut film, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Where I Begin,â&#x20AC;&#x2122; which was shown as a work-in-progress screening at this year's festival.

Photo by Danny Klimetz

Morgan Freeman participates in the Q&A for ‘Prom Night in Mississippi ’ with Charleston High School students featured in the documentary.

‘I was talking to one of the actors, Don Black, and I told him I wanted to make a movie some day. He said, “Why do you say some day? Why don’t you just make one?”’ — Melanie Addington festival are referred to as the “Hoka” awards, and former Hoka proprietor Ron Shapiro serves the festival in various capacities, including as emcee of the awards ceremony. The award statuettes are made by local artist Bill Beckwith (BFA 74). Several local filmmakers have become mainstays at the festival’s screenings. The selection committee tries to include as many local films as possible while being cognizant of not watering down the quality of the festival’s films for the sake of providing local content. “It’s really the hardest part of the job,” says Ginn. “It’s just tough. This is the town we live in. We try like heck to put in as many local movies as we can. We’d like to do them all. These are folks we see on a daily basis, and we know them. We’re pulling for them. But, you have a standard you are trying to set for those folks who come from out of town. They are going to judge you on every film they see at the festival.” “Bottom line is, it has to be well-made,” adds Fergusson. “If somebody walked into the theater and saw something, we want them to feel like they want to stay or at least appreciate that it was good. If somebody saw just one film at the festival, that’s [his or her] impression of us, and we want it to be positive.” Given those criteria, it becomes more impressive that so many local films are included. So many, in fact, that now a

dedicated “Mississippi Block” of films is shown each year. The criteria for this delineation are variable—either the filmmaker must be from Mississippi or the subject matter must be about Mississippi—but the submissions have grown. One such filmmaker is festival co-director Melanie Addington (MA 09), whose debut film, “Where I Begin,” will be shown as a work-in-progress screening at this year’s festival. Addington minored in film studies as an undergraduate but never got her feet wet by actually producing a film. She’s worked on the festival staff for several years, the past two as co-director, but it wasn’t until last year when a festival participant provided the final push that made her jump in the filmmaking waters. Says Addington, “I was talking to one of the actors, Don Black, and I told him I wanted to make a movie some day. He said, ‘Why do you say some day? Why don’t you just make one?’” So she did. She connected with Thomas Phillips, another filmmaker she’d met on the festival circuit, and the two hammered out a script and began shooting. She’s credited as cowriter and co-producer for the drama. “It was just a question, but he hit me at the right time, I guess,” she says. “Being involved with the festival opened me up to so many filmmakers who come to Oxford each year. Seeing how much work they put into it inspired me.”

Round Eight

Big new sponsors and higher quality submissions characterize the 2011 festival. “We do have bigger sponsors now. The more recognition we get, the easier it is for people to jump on board,” Fergusson says. Among those big sponsors is Panavision, makers of high-end film equipment, who joins longtime sponsor Kodak as one of the bigger industry sponsors. This year the festival also announced a partnership with Cundiff and Co., a Los Angeles-based production company. “It’s an awesome way for us to see great film projects from Winter 2011 23

Photo by Danny Klimetz

The Hoka statuettes, presented to winners at the Oxford Film Festival, pay homage to the Hoka Theater, a popular Oxford café and movie theater during the '70s and '80s.

all over,” says Jimmy Cundiff (BBA 91), a former William Morris agent and founder Director Craig Brewer poses for photos with Oxford Film Festival Executive Director Molly Fergusson. of Cundiff & Co. “Getting a look at the top films from the Oxford Film Festival is a fantastic chance for us to meet undiscovered Another twist is that the music-video winners were chosen talent.” by the audience at the screening, not by judges. Malco Theaters has sponsored the festival since it opened The year’s lineup boasted 13 world premieres, three national Oxford Studio Cinema years ago. Other sponsors that have not premieres, 33 regional premieres and 10 Mississippi premieres. been mentioned already include the Mississippi Department of Just weeks away from the festival, Ginn still was corralling Tourism, Rock Star Taxi, the Oxford Tourism Council and the extras to appear in “The Hanging of Todd Wade.” York was Oxford Filmfreak blog. holed away, putting the finishing touches on “Mississippi InThis year’s event, held Feb. 10-13, slated more than 100 nocence.” Addington was still feverishly working on “Where I films for screening. Most events were held at Malco, though a Begin.” And Fergusson wasn’t sleeping much at all. kickoff party and other events took place at The Lyric Theater. It’s always a race to the finish line. Each year presents hard Local films this year included “Mississippi Innocence,” a work culminating in a dizzying four-day whirlwind. Already look at the Mississippi Innocence Project by festival mainstay busy with their “day jobs” and personal life, the festival staff and Media & Documentary Projects staff member Joe York; works tireless and sometimes thankless hours. They get home Addington’s “Where I Begin”; Thad Lee’s “Bill Lilly Builds a at night to watch hour after hour of submitted films, sometimes Green House”; Tobie Baker’s “Valentease”; and “River City into the wee hours, to narrow the submissions to a manageable Dead,” starring Oxonian Johnny McPhail. The festival itself sponsored a community film titled “The Hanging of Big Todd number that they then submit to a selection committee. “It sounds fun until you do it,” Fergusson says. “It’s really Wade,” which was directed by Ginn and employed community a second full-time job for all of us. It keeps us busy. We don’t all members as actors and support staff. Films by festival staff, such agree on everything, but that’s mo re of an asset than a challenge.” as Ginn, Addington and York, were excluded from competition. Moving forward, the team behind the Oxford Film Festival Returning this year was the music category, which was a remains dedicated and enthusiastic. A plan is in the works to category early in the festival’s life but was eliminated for a time carve a niche in the festival circuit by catering to and spotlightdue to lack of submissions. That move met with what Addinging screenwriting. ton calls “critical feedback,” so it was reinstituted this year with “We do need to set ourselves apart a bit,” Ginn says. “Based a twist. on the town we live in and its literary riches, it makes the most “There are a lot of filmmakers in the state that do music AR sense.” videos,” says Addington, “so we decided to focus on Mississippi music. It’s such an important part of the state.” 24 Alumni Review

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g n i d l Bui llence Exce new â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s M U f o s r e d a e l Q & A with Manufacturing Excellence Center for ll By Deborah Purne Winter 2011 27

The Center for Manufacturing Excellence is expected to be completed spring 2011.

On a campus that is in a seemingly constant state of expansion, the Center for Manufacturing Excellence at The University of Mississippi is obviously the new kid on the block.

hose who attended any football game this season at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium almost certainly noticed the CME’s future home. The building sits at the intersection of All-American Way and Hill Drive. Although CME’s inaugural class of 27 students from nine states will have to wait until spring 2011 to enjoy the state-ofthe-art building, the flagship center already has earned bragging rights. Namely, the freshman class has an average GPA of 3.8 and average ACT score of 30. Also, the center recently received a half-million-dollar grant from the Mississippi Development Authority to install 414 solar panels. Once installation is complete, the CME will be the largest roof-mounted solar-powered complex in the state of Mississippi, and perhaps the nation. The center promises to be a landmark concept that will incorporate business and engineering education into a cohesive program, designed to prepare students for leadership-level positions in Mississippi’s burgeoning manufacturing sector. To delve deeper into what will actually happen within those new walls and what it will mean to the university, the Alumni Review spoke with Jim Vaughan, CME interim director, and Ryan T. Miller (BA 02), programs manager, as they prepare to move to their new location.

28 Alumni Review

What is the Center for Manufacturing Excellence? MILLER: We get that question at least once a week. One thing we have gotten used to is breaking down misconceptions of what manufacturing is and then explaining the purpose of CME. People have antiquated ideas of what manufacturing is. You know, the Henry Ford Model T type floor. Our goal is to try to educate students on the skill sets necessary to be involved in this new high-tech, innovative world of manufacturing. And what we’ve discovered is that business people, accountants and engineers are paramount to successful careers in manufacturing. In other words, the CME is a modern-languages program of sorts. We’re teaching engineering students to speak the language of business and accounting and teaching business and accounting students to speak the language of engineers. Today’s manufacturing world is not just about the designing of a new widget. It is about designing it, marketing it, budgeting for it and staffing it. Our program is designed to provide an education that prepares our students—prepares our citizens—to seamlessly transition into the modern manufacturing industry once they leave our doors.

Photo by Robert Jordan

What courses comprise the curriculum?

Is the university breaking new ground with this program?

MILLER: The CME combines engineering, business and accounting course work, plus a hands-on learning experience. Providing a common education to those students is the thing that makes our program unique. Our program will have students enrolled from all three schools, and we will have students in the same courses from all three areas. We think we're the first to do something like this on an undergraduate level in the nation.

VAUGHAN: As far as we know, the CME is the first of its kind. Whenever we do a presentation, people always ask, ‘Why hasn't anyone done this before?’ Even our corporate partners, many of whom now serve on our advisory board, are excited that Mississippi [has] taken a more active role in educating future leaders.

What is the program’s goal?

How special is the CME for Mississippi?

MILLER: The purpose is to provide a hands-on education in a traditional style. Community colleges have a vital role in preparing the state’s population for manufacturing with their workforce-development training. That’s a lot of the hands-on education already out there. Ole Miss has every bit of an important role, too. We complement what they do in that we’re trying to develop the upper-level management, while they are trying to train the hands-on workforce needed in the arena. We know the blending of these programs is new. These schools are traditionally separated and don’t have a lot of overlapping courses. But, in the real world there is overlapping. A career in modern manufacturing requires an engineering student to be able to give a business presentation in a corporate boardroom. In that same vein, a business student needs to be able to go into a design lab or engineering firm and be able to understand the basic foundational elements of engineering so that [the businessperson and engineer] can be on the same page and not stare blankly at each other. Let’s be honest: A mechanical engineering student that understands marketing, process analysis and budget making will always have job opportunities available.

VAUGHAN: U.S. manufacturers produce 22 percent of the world’s manufactured products and represent the largest manufacturing economy in the world. In fact, if U.S. manufacturing were a country, it would be the eighth largest economy in the world. With the placement of the Nissan plant in Canton and the Toyota facility in Tupelo, now is the time to help prepare Mississippi for what is now a manufacturing boom in the state. The CME is the place to prepare for much-needed leadership careers in modern manufacturing. The CME comes from a vision of Gov. Haley Barbour that Mississippi needs a better educated, high-level workforce of engineers, businessmen and accountants. We are not talking about skilled labor or the workforce development. We are talking about high-level, degree-seeking students. If Mississippi wants to continue to attract the type of industry that leads to better, higher paying jobs, we need to provide this workforce for them. We need to provide the engineers to build the factories, and we need to provide the human resource directors to staff these companies. Simply, we need to provide the leaders. This is a vision of our governor, our state and the university leaders, too.

Winter 2011 29

With 414 solar panels on the roof, the CME will be the largest solarpowered complex in the state of Mississippi.



How big will the program be? MILLER: When we are fully up and running, we will have roughly 200 students in the program—from freshmen to seniors. It will take us about five years to get there. We want students to always have that one-on-one relationship with professors. We can't grow so large that we lose that potential. Right now, we are trying to find that balance, where we have a diverse group of people to pull in their [strengths]. Diversity is more conducive for creativity. Jeanne Edwards, the plant manager from GE Aviation in Batesville, is one of our board advisers, and she has a vested interest in helping us continue to grow the female population. I’m very optimistic about our recruitment efforts. Before I started recruiting for the CME, I had a stereotype about engineering majors. Basically, I thought I would meet a group of math-and-science nerds. But, with our first class, we have an interesting mix. There are homecoming queens, captains of soccer teams and student council presidents. It is a neat mix of students. And, we have the ones like me who will say they are nerds, but all in all we have a good mix, and I’m hopeful that we have a good foundation that will continue to grow.

Tell us more about the building. VAUGHAN: We don’t think there’s another building like ours in the nation. The facility is more than 47,000 usable square feet and includes classrooms, student workspaces, lounge areas, laboratories and the factory floor. The solar panels basically cover the entire roof. This means the lights and air conditioning will be able to run on solar power. It will generate roughly 90 kilowatts of electricity, which will be enough to run the building minus the factory floor and equipment. We should be able to run under normal conditions and actually return power to the university’s grid. Having a solar-powered building on the historic campus is also an excellent teaching device for the center. What really makes us stand out a little more is the 12,000-square-foot factory floor with 27-foot-tall ceilings that occupies the lower level of the building. Basically, we have a mini factory. I don’t know of any other building on another campus with a building of this type. Here, students learn modern processes of manufacturing as they bring their ideas to life. Another plus is that the CME is the second LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design)-certified building on campus.

How challenging is student recruitment? MILLER: It has been positive, but it is a challenge because this is a brand-new program; there’s no history. What has been helpful is having a top-notch curriculum and a building that is essentially a teaching tool. We also believe having key corporate leaders in an advisory role has helped us recruit. Toyota is a partner in that [it serves] in an advisory role to the CME. But 30 Alumni Review

we also have partnerships built with GE Aviation in Batesville, Viking Range in Greenwood, Northrop Grumman on the Mississippi Coast and others. We have presidents of national associations and CEOs of global businesses on the board. It’s a diverse group. Our students have already had the opportunity to meet the board and interact, and we are planning for much more in the future.

How does the cme logo reflect your program? VAUGHAN: What do you see when you look at it? Most people see a person, and that is correct, but that’s not the entire picture. Our logo is as unique as our program because both reflect our belief that the manufacturing process begins and ends with the human spirit and mind. This simple belief is the foundation of the CME program. The logo is our interpretation of this belief. MILLER: People are our greatest resource. We serve this university, the state of Mississippi, and we want to serve our manufacturers and industries by providing creative and talented leaders. That is really the foundation and cornerstone of the CME. For more information about the Center for Manufacturing Excellence, contact Ryan T. Miller, programs manager, at rtmiller@ olemiss.edu or 662-915-CME2 (2632). AR

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ADDRESSING a need BUSINESS GRADUATE CREATES ADS FOR CAPTIVE AUDIENCE

BY MICHAEL HARRELSON • PHOTOS BY NATHAN LATIL 32 Alumni Review



Addison Edmonds (BBA 09) and his dog, Gunner, take 'ADvantage' of a photo op at the Malco Oxford Studio Cinema. Edmonds also is a sponsor of the Oxford Film Festival.

Not every college business model to come out of the entrepreneurial dreamscape of academia is destined to take its place among Fortune 500 companies in the real world of commerce, or to become a charitable corporate example for the greater good of the world around us. But one recent Ole Miss School of Business Administration graduate has turned a startup company he envisioned during his junior year into a thriving enterprise that is succeeding beyond his expectations while making a benevolent difference for students, the university and the greater Oxford and Mississippi community as a whole.

mid a bleak employment outlook that has left many college graduates scrambling to find gainful careers, Oxford resident Addison Edmonds (BBA 09) recently launched The Indoor ADvantage, an advertising company that specializes in the creation and placement of ad displays in public venues such as restaurant restrooms and taxicabs throughout the Oxford area. In addition to allowing him to follow in the entrepreneurial footsteps of his father, Darryl Edmonds, founder of Brentwood, Tenn.’s TrustCore Financial Planning, his company has proven itself as a valuable communications vehicle to raise awareness and/or money for several worthy causes, from designated driver awareness campaigns aimed at Ole Miss students to the fights against muscular dystrophy and breast cancer. The Brentwood native and Ole Miss graduate founded The Indoor ADvantage in fall 2009 to assist food-and-beverage, retail and other leisure-time businesses in reaching new and previously untapped groups of customers. From a single client and location at startup, the company has since grown to include 25 locations throughout the Oxford area that feature dozens of the company’s stylish, trademark frames, each containing up to four professionally designed advertisements. Alumni who have paid a recent visit to the Square in Oxford likely have been exposed to The Indoor ADvantage displays touting many of the city’s retailers, alongside marketing messages for charitable events such as Kappa Alpha fraternity’s Fight Night, a charity benefit held last spring that benefited the Muscular Dystrophy Association. Although the Ole Miss fraternity that counts Edmonds as an active member had been successful with its Fight Night fundraiser in previous years, Kappa Alpha Order President Paris Buchanan says The Indoor ADvantage sponsorship helped put the two-night event held at Oxford’s Lyric theater over the top. “There’s no question that the advertising donated by The Indoor ADvantage made a difference,” Buchanan says. “We were able to draw a lot of people in from the Oxford community, and that made a significant contribution in helping us raise

more than $80,000 for the Muscular Dystrophy Association. To our knowledge, that is the most that has ever been raised by the fraternity for MDA.” As recently as last October, The Indoor ADvantage sponsorship of advertising for the Pink Dress Run also helped organizers William Watts (BAccy 08) and Oxford’s Valorie Ott, a breast cancer survivor, raise $13,000 for breast cancer research with the active participation of more than 600 people who showed up to make the event an overwhelming success. With anti-drunk driving and designated driver ads in particular, Edmonds says his eye-catching displays are uniquely positioned to have a powerful impact. “It’s a message that hits close to home for [people who are] out at a bar or club and may have had a few drinks over the limit,” he says. “The timing of when they view the message is the closest to when they might be tempted to drink and drive.” Edmonds’s ever-evolving client and charity lineup includes specially created ad displays for UM’s Division of Outreach and Continuing Education and a 5K Dash for Hash run, organized by the Ole Miss Diamond Girls to assist Ole Miss baseball player Taylor Hashman with hospital bills and rehabilitation therapy following a traumatic injury he suffered off the field last year. “Most of the charities that I assist ask me to be a sponsor,” Edmonds says. “But with the Dash for Hash, I contacted them and told them that I wanted to help.” And help them he did. Ole Miss Baseball Coach Mike Bianco noted in a follow-up letter to Edmonds, “Thanks so much for donating the ads for the ‘Dash for Hash.’ The event was a huge success. We couldn’t have done it without you.” In addition to his business allowing him to live in Oxford, Edmonds says being his own boss allows him to take advantage of other outreach opportunities that would not be possible in a 9-to-5 job. This past summer, he traveled to the Mississippi coast, where he assisted crew members aboard the 36-foot Smooth Operator in spotting and removing oil from Gulf waters as part of the coastal cleanup effort. An avid duck hunter and saltwater fisherman, the oil spill disaster was one that hit Winter 2011 33

Edmonds says his company now bears little resemblance to the original business.

particularly close to home for Edmonds. with it. It became my obsession, and I wasn’t going to quit until “I grew up fishing on Dauphin Island every summer, just I could make it work.” a few miles from Pascagoula, where we were searching for oil,” A year later, the new company bears only a passing resemEdmonds says. “It broke my heart when I heard about the oil blance to the original enterprise, Edmonds says. spill, and I was eager to get down there and help in any way that “I have always tried to remain flexible with my business I could.” model. I have changed up everything from the prices, type of Although he credits the School of Business and the entire frames, sales approaches and everything else at least three times academic program at Ole Miss with contributing to the success each, but the one thing that I refused to tweak was the appearof The Indoor ADvantage concept, which he plans to replicate ance of the company itself. I knew from the start that if this was in other Southeastern locales, Edmonds found a small business going to fly in a town like Oxford that my frames and ads had to management course taken under UM Assistant Professor of appear professional, not some cheap, gimmicky restroom adverManagement Clay Dibrell in fall 2009 to be particularly helpful tising company that you might see in other parts of the country. in getting his new venture off the ground. “What makes us different from other kinds of advertising “I used class as my time to figure out what my next move companies is that we display client ads to the most captive audiwas going to be,” Edmonds says. “And Dr. Dibrell’s small busi- ences imaginable, in places where the viewer can’t turn the page ness management course really helped because it specifically or change the channel,” Edmonds says. “Typically, people do not answered the questions I had about come in contact with one of my ads starting a business. He would always when they are real busy, stressed out bring in young adults who had been or upset. When they encounter one in our shoes a few years back, and he of my displays, they are out having would encourage us to ask as many a good time and more relaxed, and questions as they would take.” they are therefore more receptive to The successful effort thus far by the message.” Edmonds comes as no surprise to Whether the end goal is comDibrell, who remembers his former mercial or philanthropic, business student as a highly intelligent person owners and clients alike say they are with a unique ability to provide crepleased with the impact that their ads ative solutions to clients. are having on those who see them “Instead of complaining about in The Library Sports Bar, Rooster’s — Assistant Professor of Management the poor job market facing recent Blues House, Old Venice Pizza and Clay Dibrell graduates, Addison took control of elsewhere in Oxford. his future and grew his new com“The ads keep me in the loop as pany from a small startup to a viable competitor,” Dibrell says. to what’s going on and, just as importantly, some great places to “During my time with Addison, he impressed me with his self- shop,” says Eliza Vaughn, a graduate accountancy major at Ole motivation, maturity and goal-driven energy, which he applied Miss. “I went and bought a new pair of shoes at a store after I to different assignments and his business.” read an Indoor ADvantage ad that alerted me to a 50-percentFor the Generation Y entrepreneur who followed three off sale.” extended family members in choosing to come to Ole Miss as a It only took one ad campaign on behalf of the university’s freshman in 2006, the idea for the new company came to him Division of Outreach and Continuing Education to make a while catching up with some friends and one of his cousins in believer out of Janey Ginn, the division’s director of marketing his native Nashville. and creative services. “We met at a restaurant, and I went to the restroom and saw “The Indoor ADvantage has increased our visibility within some advertisements in there. I figured, ‘Hey, that’s a good idea. our target audience, i.e., Ole Miss students,” she says. “When I think Oxford could use a company like that.’ I didn’t have any we began to receive photos of the Study Abroad ad, we knew we other plans for what I was going to do out of college so I ran were on to something.” AR

‘Instead of complaining about the poor job market facing recent graduates, Addison took control of his future and grew his new company from a small startup to a viable competitor.’

34 Alumni Review

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Old New and Red Blue universityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s freshman handbook stands test of time BY JIM URBANEK

hroughout its history, the Oxford campus of The University of Mississippi has been a place with which students formed a bond, lifelong and passionate for many. Yet, with students at its nucleus, Ole Miss also is a constantly transforming body. As much as all alumni have etched their part in the university's history, their individual experiences, memories and roles are unique and have been shaped by the times in which they live, as the record shows in an annual university publication.

36 Alumni Review

Photo by Kevin Bain

Fall 2010 37

Photo by Kevin Bain

elieved to have been produced since 1894, the small pieces of UM history known as M-Books cast a light on the differences and similarities in the campus today and years past. The current M-Book is published by the Office of the Dean of Students, whereas the early M-Books were published by the Young Men’s and Young Women’s Christian Associations (YMCA and YWCA) of The University of Mississippi and later by the Associated Student Body. Provost Emeritus Gerald Walton (MA 59, PhD 67) notes that the campus library’s Department of Archives and Special Collections’ oldest edition of the student handbook on file dates to 1911 and is titled The Mississippi Handbook. “An examination of M-Books through the years provides interesting information about developments at The University of Mississippi and in higher education in general during the last century—from a time of no need for information on such matters as traffic regulations and computer use to the present,” Walton says. Printed even during both world wars, the M-Book transitioned from an informal guide full of tips and suggestions for freshmen entering the college environment to a handbook containing many UM policies and procedures of which students needed to be aware. But still today, with all the advances in technology and growth of the university, tips and advice provided 80-100 years ago in these handbooks would not be lost on incoming freshmen.

National Influence

“The M-Book has changed over time, not only in aesthetics but also with regards to content,” says Assistant Dean of Students Scott Wallace (MA 05), who coordinates the printing of the M-Book. “For the most part, the M-Book has been directed at freshmen, especially in the early years.” M-Books from the ’20s, ’30s, ’40s and ’50s stuck to a similar format for content and included information on campus organizations, religious groups, sports schedules, traditions, local advertising and general advice to freshmen. This type of structure mostly continued through the 1960s. Wallace says in the 1970s the M-Book became more of a medium to post regulations regarding cheating and nonacademic standards, which became more in-depth and a standard though the ’80s, ’90s and especially today. “The late ’50s, ’60s, and ’70s were a time when institutions

38 Alumni Review

of higher learning found themselves plowing new ground,” he says. “You had legislation like the Higher Education Act in 1965 that provided federal funding to institutions in ways such as financial aid for students. So the arm of the federal government was farther reaching.” Landmark cases such as Dixon v. Alabama State Board of Education in 1961 provided for educational due process. A part of that due process meant providing notice to students of exactly what the regulations were. “I suppose student handbooks became the best possible forum for providing appropriate notice about regulations— academic and nonacademic—and students’ opportunity to a fair judicial process that’s used to solve grievances,” Wallace says.

Recent History and an Evolving Need

Wallace believes the handbook has been printed continuously since 1894 with the exception of three academic years: 2004-05, 2005-06 and 2006-07. The handbook was put exclusively online in 2004, and that entering freshman class could go to the Dean of Students website to view it. In early 2005, in an effort to effectively manage the many university policies, the IT department created what is now known as the University Policy Directory online. Wallace says this led to the university declaring that for a policy to be official, it had to be posted on the Policy Directory. The policies the Office of the Dean of Students managed were posted to the directory in spring 2005. Believing the M-Book was no longer necessary because the policies could be now found online, the online version of the M-Book was removed, and students were directed to the Policy Directory. But this absence of the long-standing handbook was short-lived. “A couple of years later we realized the value in having a printed handbook and decided to publish an M-Book for the 2007-08 academic year,” Wallace says. “We wanted to make sure students understood that policies are subject to change, and the M-Book is now only a printed guide.” To find the most updated and official policies, M-Book readers are now referred to the online Policy Directory. The Office of the Dean of Students works with Housing and Residence Life to distribute the M-Book to freshmen and others living on campus. For those who would like an M-Book, they can stop by the Office of the Dean of Students at any time to pick up a copy.

Glimpses of the Past

Though content in the older M-Books often would be reprinted in multiple issues, it is these older issues that provide the best glimpse into a much less complicated life on campus. Although the Ole Miss campus is a vastly different place these days, the handbooks also reveal that many of these old traditions and ideals continue today.

Traditions

1929-30 M-BOOK “The Mighty Mississippians are a power on the gridiron, and her basketball and baseball teams have made her an enviable reputation on the courts and diamonds of the whole South.” 1931-32 M-BOOK “As soon as you are matriculated, you are a part of the university and ‘Ole Miss’ is your Alma Mater. You are fully entitled to the rights and privileges which she offers, and responsible now for the upholding of her good name.” 1950-51 M-BOOK “Blind Jim. One could not be a true Ole Miss student and not know Blind Jim. He is the king of Rebel boosters, the figure who yells the loudest at our football games and spurs the team on. His favorite line is ‘I have never seen Ole Miss lose a football game.’ It is the custom of the freshman class to buy Blind Jim a new suit of clothes. The honorary dean of the freshman class must be clothed in style.” 1951-52 M-BOOK “As you have already gathered, Ole Miss loves a party, but we stage our parties on the weekend and subordinate them to our studies.” “The best tradition of all is spirit of friendly competition, which exists among the campus organizations and in intramural sports. Let us remember this spirit and never let student competition stand in the way of the betterment of our greatest cause: The University of Mississippi.” 1963-64 M-BOOK “You will soon come to realize that Ole Miss is not only a school of many traditions, but also a tradition itself. You will stand out [as] an Ole Miss Rebel because you, like many before you, have become an important link in this living tradition.”

Rules and Regulations

1929-30 M-BOOK “Dances at the university are under the control and direction of a Faculty Social Committee and a Student Dance Committee. Application for a permit to attend them must be made early in the year by all students who want to go to them. Application blanks and permit cards are usually issued at the desk in the Y Lobby. Watch for announcements concerning them.” “Smoking is not allowed in any buildings on campus, except the Y Building and the dormitories.”

‘Don’t try to study with a picture of Mary in front of you, because she is much more interesting than math and you may flunk...’ —1929-30 M-Book

Services

Conduct and Advice

1911-12 M-BOOK “It is possible to be a ‘good fellow’ and not be a true gentleman.” “Hours spent out of bed when you ought to be in bed mean years in the grave when you ought to be out.” 1928-29 M-BOOK “Don’t be too quick to tell people about your high school honors. They are all very commendable, but college students don’t appreciate them so much as your home-town acquaintances did.” “Divide your time properly between work and play. There is a danger of your becoming either a ‘book worm’ or a ‘rah rah boy.’” 1929-30 M-BOOK “Avoid all upperclassmen who have nothing good to say about anybody or anything on the campus. They are dangerous.” “Here you are your own boss. No one will tell you when to come or go, when to study or go to bed. And so any honor that you get will be yours, and any blame you receive will be all yours, too.” “Write home at least once a week. You will be glad you did once you go back there.”

1951-52 M-BOOK “Barber Shop—Situated in the basement of the Student Union Building, directly beneath the Post Office, the barber shop provides three chairs and remains open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. except on Saturdays, when it closes at 12 noon.”

“Don’t try to study with a picture of Mary in front of you, because she is much more interesting than math and you may flunk. And when you are with Mary, don’t tell her about your math examination, as she has heard [it] all before and will probably be bored.”

“Tailor Shop—The tailor shop is in the basement of the Student Union Building and is next to the barbershop. Alterations and mending are done at reasonable prices.”

1934-35 M-BOOK “‘Collegiate’ does not mean ‘asinine,’ and rough stuff does not signify college spirit. Be sensible.” AR

Winter 2011 39

Sports

UM senior Matt Smith and his teammates will be featured on ESPNU twice this season.

Show Time

REBELS PICKED TWICE FOR ESPNU THURSDAY NIGHT BASEBALL

he Ole Miss baseball team will be featured twice this season in a new television deal announced by the Southeastern Conference and ESPN. The new package will feature a Thursday night SEC Baseball Game of the Week on ESPNU and run for seven weeks through the completion of the season. The new package begins on April 7. “ESPNU is thrilled to feature a sevenweek SEC Thursday night baseball series,” says Rosalyn Durant, vice president of ESPNU. “Showcasing the vast talent of SEC baseball is great for the sport, fans, league and ESPNU. We appreciate the 40 Alumni Review

partnership with the SEC in creating this consistent Thursday night national package.” Ole Miss will be a part of the broadcast once on the road and once at home. The Rebels’ series at Auburn (April 21-23) will be featured by the network, as will the Rebels’ final home series against Mississippi State (May 12-14). The Rebels are one of only two teams in the league to be featured twice in the Thursday night broadcast. “The Thursday night package of SEC games on ESPNU is a great opportunity for us to showcase the outstanding baseball that is played in our conference,” says SEC

Commissioner Mike Slive. “The ESPNU package will be able to draw attention to the outstanding game-day atmosphere we have at our baseball stadiums as well as the rich tradition and history of SEC baseball.” The Thursday night package will shift series from Friday-Sunday dates to Thursday-Saturday dates, and fans should make plans according to these changes. Other contests throughout the season still will be broadcast on the ESPN family of networks as a part of the existing television contract between the SEC and ESPN. AR

Going Pro

FORMER REBEL EARNS LPGA TOUR CARD

ormer Ole Miss All-American Dori Carter (BBA 09) realized a lifelong dream in December when she earned her LPGA Tour Card at the LPGA International tournament in Daytona Beach, Fla., wrapping up a pressurepacked five days of golf. Carter, a native of Valdosta, Ga., finished in a tie for 12th place. The top 20 players earned full exempt status on the tour for the 2011 season. Carter completed a successful first year as a professional in 2010 on the Duramed Futures Tour, finishing 14th on the money list. That exempted her to the final qualifying site at Daytona. Carter earned her first professional win in August at the Pennsylvania Classic in Harrisburg, Pa. “If you would have asked me a year ago did I see myself playing on the LPGA Tour by the next year, I would have said no,” Carter says. “There were a lot of things I needed to do to get ready. I thought it would take some time, but because of how I played on the Futures Tour and playing full time helped. It was a huge experience. After earning an exemption to the final

Dori Carter earned her LPGA Tour card in December.

stage, I do feel ready for the tour.” “We are excited for Dori,” says Ole Miss head Coach Michele Drinkard. “She dreamed of playing on the LPGA Tour, and, now, through her hard work she has given herself that opportunity. I have no doubt that Dori will win on the LPGA Tour. She has all the traits of a champion in that she works hard, is very humble, grateful for all the opportunities she has been given and loves to give back every chance she gets. It’s going to be a lot of fun having a Rebel on the LPGA Tour, and we

are looking forward to seeing Ole Miss on Dori’s tour bag too.” One of the most decorated players in the history of Ole Miss women’s golf, Carter earned All-America honors in 2008 and 2009. She also was named All-SEC first team both years and helped the Rebels qualify for the NCAA East Regional in 2009. Carter ranks in the top two in Ole Miss history in nearly every category, including the lowest stroke average in a season with a 72.84 in 2008-09. AR

“OLE MISS at OXFORD: A Part of Our Heart and Soul” William H. Morris, Jr. Over 300 beautiful, full-color photographs spanning 20 years of Grove Gatherings, Square Settings, Football Frenzy, and More

A book to be cherished by all who love this wondrous place Available now in your favorite bookstore Heart & Soul Publications • www.heartandsoulpublications.com

Winter 2011 41

Sports Major Spike VOLLEYBALL PLAYER MAKES HISTORY WITH ALL-AMERICA SELECTION

Regina Thomas (center) is the first All-America selection in Ole Miss volleyball history.

42 Alumni Review

unior middle blocker Regina Thomas became the first All-America selection in Ole Miss volleyball history when the Texas native was named a third team selection by the American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA). Thomas helped the Rebels advance to the NCAA Tournament for the third time in the last five seasons as Ole Miss posted a 19-11 record on the year, finishing fourth in the Southeastern Conference overall standings and second in the Western Division. She is the first volleyball player from a Division I school in Mississippi to garner more than Honorable Mention honors in the All-America voting. “It’s almost a surreal feeling. It’s something I’ve always wanted, but it’s weird when it finally hits you that you’ve accomplished something you set out to do,” Thomas says. “It’s amazing to know I will be a part of the history of such a longstanding program at Ole Miss. I would walk by the wall of honors in the Gillom Center and get to the section reserved for volleyball All-Americans, and it would be empty. I would tell myself that I wanted to be a part of getting a name in that section of honors. I think it’s a big milestone for our program and adds credibility to what we’re trying to build here in Oxford. It definitely provides us another opportunity to move forward and keep working to bring a championship to Oxford.” Thomas is the first Rebel to earn a spot on the All-SEC first team since the 1990 season when Michelle Whitby-York (BSPHE 91) was named a first team selection, and she is the first Rebel to earn first team All-Region honors from the AVCA in the history of the program as well. Ole Miss just completed its 35th season of volleyball. AR

Fit for Fame

OLE MISS STUDENT-ATHLETES AMONG WHO’S WHO

leven Rebel student-athletes were among the 150 Ole Miss students selected to the 2010-11 Who’s Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges. Each year The University of Mississippi, along with numerous other colleges and universities, honors those students who have made significant contributions to its campus in the areas of scholarship, leadership and student activities by selecting them for the Who’s Who list. Track and field had six members on the list led by Barnabas Kirui (BBA 10, BAccy 10), who recently capped a brilliant college career by winning his third Southeastern Conference Cross

Country Championship. Other trackand-field honorees include seniors Chad Berry (BAccy 10), Matt Daniels, Rachel Jenkins, Juliana Smith and junior Allison Kneip. Men’s basketball sophomore Will Bogan, women’s tennis senior Laura van de Stroet, rifle senior Colleen Tillson, softball senior Lindsey Perry and women’s golf student assistant Sara Grantham round out the Rebel student-athletes on the list. “To have 11 student-athletes chosen for Who’s Who shows the commitment to their overall development at the university,” says Lynnette Johnson (MEd 90), executive associate athletics director. “These 11 student-athletes spend an

Ole Miss track-and-field star Barnabas Kirui

enormous amount of time with their sport, academics and then their extracurricular activities to be recognized at this level. We congratulate each of them on this honor.” AR

HERE’S YOUR LICENSE TO BRAG! Now you can sport the official University of Mississippi license plate! For an additional $50 a year — $32.50 of which returns to Ole Miss for educational enhancement — you can purchase this “license to brag” about your alma mater. When it’s time to renew your license plate, simply tell your local tax collector you want the Ole Miss affinity license plate. It’s an easy way to help your University. This particular tag is available to Mississippi drivers only. Some other states, however, offer an Ole Miss affinity license plate. Check with your local tax collector for availability.

Winter 2011 43

arts &

Culture the two men who once called each other friend are forced to confront the past they’ve buried and ignored for decades. Tom Franklin is an assistant professor of fiction writing and former writerin-residence at Ole Miss.

Crooked Letter, Crooked Letter: A Novel by Tom Franklin, 288 pages, $24.99 (Hardcover), ISBN: 9780060594664 Tom Franklin’s third novel is a tale of an unlikely friendship marred by crime and racial strain in small-town Mississippi. In the late 1970s, Larry Ott and Silas Jones were boyhood pals. Their worlds were as different as night and day: Larry, the child of lower-middleclass white parents, and Silas, the son of a poor, single black mother. Yet, for a few months, the boys stepped outside of their circumstances and shared a special bond. Then tragedy struck: Larry took a girl on a date to a drive-in movie, and she was never heard from again. She was never found, and Larry never confessed, but all eyes rested on him as the culprit. The incident shook the county—and perhaps Silas most of all. His friendship with Larry was broken, and then Silas left town. More than 20 years have passed. Larry, a mechanic, lives a solitary existence, never able to rise above the whispers of suspicion. Silas has returned as a constable. He and Larry have no reason to cross paths until another girl disappears, and Larry is blamed again. And now

44 Alumni Review

Evil Is Ever ywhere by Carroll Ward, 108 pages, $13 (Paperback), ISBN: 9781434905369 There is an old saying that “still water runs deep.” The quiet little Southern town of La Flor, Miss., is an example of st i l l water. W h i le L a Flor appears to be peaceful, placid and lovely, underneath the calm is kidnapping, murder and intrigue. When Sally Henshaw, a prominent La Flor attorney, mysteriously vanishes, residents of the sleepy town begin looking for someone to blame. Born in Ca mden, Ark., and raised in Mobile, Ala., Carroll Ward (BA 65) is a teacher with Sylvan Learning in Casselberr y, Fla. She was inspired by one of her own teachers to write this book. She and her husband, Emmett; daughter, Anne; and granddaughter, Olivia, live in Winter Springs, Fla. M i s s i s s i p p i a n s , Ne i l W h i t e , e d . , 240 pages, $45 (Hardcover), ISBN: 9780977456277 Edited by Neil White (95) and published by Nautilus Publishing, Mississippians is a coffee-table book featuring the most famous and notable individuals from the state of Mississippi. The book features more than 250 famous Mississippians

and includes work from the state’s top writers and photographers. The Minor Adjustments: “The January Sessions,” CD/Download, $9.99 S ome of O x f ord ’s f inest musicia ns have teamed up as The Minor Adjustments. Their debut album, “The January Sessions,” centers around the songwriting of Patrick McClary of Daybreakdown and Chris Steiner (BBA 02) of the Mayhem String Band. The songs are tales of bre a k ups, booz e a nd life on the road—sung with more soul than the Indie world can contain and with just the right amount of twang. The album contains its fair share of fiddles, mandolins and accordions, courtesy of the Mayhem String Band, and Karl Denson, of Karl Denson’s Tiny Universe, turns up on saxophone. The album was produced by Andrew Ratcliffe at Oxford’s Tweed Studios and is available online at www.digistation.com. Information presented in this section is compiled from material provided by the publisher and/or author and does not necessarily represent the view of the Alumni Review or the Ole Miss Alumni Association. To present a recently published book or CD for consideration, please mail a copy with any descriptions and publishing information to: Ole Miss Alumni Review, Ole Miss Alumni Association, P.O. Box 1848, University, MS 38677. AR

TRAVEL planner 2011

he Ole Miss Alumni Association is offering a number of spectacular trips for 2011. Alumni and friends obtain group rates and discounts. All prices are per person, based on double occupancy and subject to change until booking. Airfare is not included unless noted. For a brochure or more information, contact the Alumni office at 662-915-7375. You also can find the most current listing of trips and prices on the Ole Miss Alumni Association’s website at www.alumni.olemiss.edu.

EXPEDITION TO ANTARCTICA FEB. 15-28, 2011 Arrive in beautiful Buenos Aires, and tour the city for two days before taking off on a nine-night cruise to Antarctica on the M.S. Le Boreal. Aboard the ship, enjoy views from the panoramic lounge, nightly entertainment in the main lounge, and lectures, cultural performances and film screenings in the state-of-the-art theater. Also, a library, Internet salon, sun deck, swimming pool and other top-of-theline amenities are aboard the ship. While

visiting Half Moon Island, observe the antics of the island’s colony of chinstrap penguins, and enjoy the lingering twilight of the Antarctic summer. Also you will visit Paradise Bay, which is an ideal sanctuary for marine wildlife including humpback whales, crabeater seals and Cape petrels. During this luxury cruise, all meals, including afternoon tea and late-evening snacks, are included, as well as a souvenir red parka given to you on your trip to Antarctica.—From $7,595 MAYAN MYSTIQUE CRUISE FEB. 15-25, 2011 With 10 nights on Oceania Cruises’ Regatta and ports of call such as Grand Cayman, Cozumel, Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, Costa Maya, Mexico and Key West, this voyage will be one to remember. Oceania Cruises has smaller, more intimate ships, providing access to more exotic ports. On board, enjoy a large heated pool, three whirlpool spas and a state-of-the-art fitness center. While on land, enjoy swimming and snorkeling with shy and gentle stingrays in George Town, and discover Honduras’ natural wonders on a horseback ride along the beach and through a tropical forest past spectacular volcanic rocks. Enjoy diving to fabulous reefs or exploring the jungle with an ATV in Cozumel, and climb among the ruins in Costa Maya, many of which are still being excavated, and look for toucans in the trees.—From $4,998 SWISS WINTER ESCAPADE FEB. 21-28, 2011 Visit Switzerland, the roof of Europe. With its stunning mountain peaks, this country offers most everything your heart desires in spectacular scenic variety. Even though this is a paradise for skiers, the Jungfrau Region also offers a wide range of activities for nonskiers, such as skating, tobogganing, romantic horse-

Tikal, Guatemala 46 Alumni Review

drawn sleigh rides and magnificent winter walks. On this trip, you will spend six nights in the picture-postcard village of Interlaken in the snow-covered Alps. This trip through Switzerland offers a stunning winter landscape, excellent skiing, great shopping and cultural opportunities throughout some of the country’s most famous towns and cities. Every morning, start your day off with a traditional Swiss breakfast buffet. Also, during the days you will have the opportunity to gain important insight into skiing in the Alps from local experts, walk along the town’s most fashionable promenade, admire the stunning Alpine scenery or visit the local museums.—From $2,395 CRUISING THE LESSER ANTILLES: ST. BARTS, ANTIGUA, GRENADA, DOMINICA, ST. KITTS & SAN JUAN MARCH 15-22, 2011 Join us for this seven-night cruise of the Lesser Antilles islands aboard the sixstar, all-suite M.V. Silver Cloud of the Silversea fleet, voted “World’s Best Small Ship Cruise Line 2008” by Travel + Leisure. Fly free from one of 22 gateways, and enjoy a selection of complimentary wines, spirits and nonalcoholic beverages served throughout the cruise, included onboard gratuities, gourmet dining, 24-hour room service, personal butler service and complimentary fitness classes. Port calls include charming Philipsburg, St. Maarten; sophisticated Gustavia, St. Barts; colonial St. John’s, Antigua; historic Iles des Saintes, Guadeloupe; and magnificent Castries, St. Lucia. A Barbados pre-cruise option will be offered.—From $2,798 CELTIC LANDS—FRANCE, ENGLAND, IRELAND, SCOTLAND AND WALES MAY 6-15, 2011 Discover the living heritage of the Celtic people on this eight-night cruise from the ancient Norman port of Honfleur past the misty islands of the Celtic and Irish Seas to Scotland’s historic capital of Edinburgh aboard the exclusively chartered, deluxe M.S. Le Boreal. By special

Venice, Italy

arrangement, enjoy enriching lectures by President Dwight D. Eisenhower’s grandson and Sir Winston Churchill’s granddaughter. Walk along Normandy’s D-Day landing beaches, admire the lavish artistry of the ninth-century Book of Kells in Dublin, and visit the impregnable 700-year-old Caernarfon Castle. Drive through the breathtaking Snowdonia Mountains, and find serenity in the stark beauty of Scotland’s Inner Hebrides and Orkney Islands. A Paris pre-cruise option and Edinburgh post-cruise option are offered.—From $6,195 CRADLE OF HISTORY—EGYPT, ISRAEL, GREECE AND TURKEY MAY 9-22, 2011 Sail through thousands of years of history as you cruise the Mediterranean on the elegant Oceania Cruises’ Nautica. Lose yourself at sea in the comfort and luxuries of fine cuisine, upscale amenities and lavishly appointed staterooms. Immerse yourself in the ancient legends, traditions and cultures of Greece, Egypt, Israel, Cyprus and Turkey, each destination with a different story to tell. From pyramids to palaces, discover the cradle of history.— From $8,598 MEDITERRANEAN INSPIRATION CRUISE JUNE 2-13, 2011 Discover some of the Mediterranean’s most fascinating ports of call while

sailing on the beautifully appointed Oceania Cruises’ Nautica. Depart from enchanting Venice, a city of weaving canals, with your first ports of call in the countries of Croatia, Montenegro and Greece. Behold the Venetian-tinged architecture of Dubrovnik, stroll the pink-paved streets of medieval Kotor, and revel in the glorious scenery of Corfu. Departing Greece, sail along the beloved and scenic west coast of Italy, stopping in some famous ports of call, including the ancient Sicilian town of Taormina, Amalfi and Positano with their charming harbors and brightly colored fishing boats, and Florence with Brunelleschi’s extraordinary Duomo and its world-renowned artwork. Admire the picturesque Italian towns of Cinque Terre before your voyage makes a stop in glamorous Monte Carlo, then concludes in legendary Rome via Civitavecchia.—From $7,398 CRUISING THE BALTIC SEA AND THE NORWEGIAN FJORDS JUNE 9-20, 2011 Experience the cultural rebirth of the Baltic States and the magnificent imperial riches of St. Petersburg while cruising for 10 nights under the spectacular “White Nights of Summer” aboard the exclusively chartered, deluxe M.S. Le Boreal. By special arrangement, enjoy enriching speeches by former president of the Soviet Union Mikhail Gorbachev and former Winter 2011 47

president of Poland Lech Walesa. Sail across the Baltic Sea from cosmopolitan Stockholm, Sweden, to the magnificent fjords of Norway, with shore excursions in Helsinki, St. Petersburg, Tallinn, Riga, Gdan’sk and Copenhagen. A Stockholm pre-cruise option and Bergen post-cruise option are offered.—From $7,295. **This program is now SOLD OUT. Please be advised that additional booking requests will be on a priority wait-list basis. GREAT JOURNEY THROUGH EUROPE JUNE 11-21, 2011 Cruise along the fabled Rhine River aboard a deluxe vessel of the Amadeus Premium Fleet, ride aboard three legendary railways, and visit four UNESCO World Heritage sites on this unique 11-day journey. Wind through Holland, Germany and France—walk the streets of medieval Heidelberg, stand before the twin spires of Cologne Cathedral, and enjoy a refreshing glass of Riesling in Strasbourg. Travel the Swiss countryside in the shadow of the Matterhorn, cross the mountainous backbone of Switzerland aboard the Gornergrat Bahn and the Glacier Express, stroll along Lucerne’s covered bridges, and take in panoramic Alpine vistas from Mount Pilatus. An Amsterdam pre-program option is offered.—From $3,595 ITALY—TUSCANY, CORTONA AND FLORENCE JUNE 28-JULY 7, 2011 From the innovations of the Etruscans to the enlightenment of the Renaissance, Tuscany is a region steeped in history and human achievement. Let the charming village of Cortona be your base as you travel through the surrounding Tuscan hill country, admiring the beauty of the land. In Siena, navigate narrow cobblestone streets lined with Gothic buildings, visit the magnificent Duomo, and stroll the Piazza del Campo, one of the loveliest squares in Italy. In the Umbria region, explore medieval Assisi, home to the exquisite Basilica of St. Francis, and Perugia, an ancient Etruscan city-state. Then, journey to tiny Montepulciano, set in the heart of Chianti country, and the delightful town of Pienza. Conclude with two nights in Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance, and experience its brilliant artistic and architectural heritage.—From $2,795 48 Alumni Review

Skagway, Alaska

CRUISING ALASKA’S GLACIERS AND THE INSIDE PASSAGE JULY 7-14, 2011 Join this magnificent cruise from Vancouver, British Columbia, through the pristine Inside Passage, to Seward, Alaska, aboard the six-star, all-suite M.V. Silver Shadow of the Silversea fleet, voted “World’s Best Small Ship Cruise Line 2008” by Travel + Leisure. Fly free* from one of 22 gateways, and enjoy complimentary beverages throughout the cruise, gourmet dining, included onboard gratuities and personal butler service. Pass towering mountains, and watch for whales, sea lions and eagles. See Sawyer and Hubbard glaciers and call at the historic towns of Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway and Sitka. Join the two-night Vancouver pre-cruise option and/or the extraordinary fivenight Denali National Park and Fairbanks post-cruise option. *Subject to change and availability.—From $8,895, including airfare from 22 cities DANUBE RIVER AND THE CULTURAL TREASURES OF CENTRAL EUROPE JULY 14-27, 2011 This exclusive 14-day journey through the heart of Central Europe, once the glorious realm of Habsburg emperors, features visits to five UNESCO World Heritage sites on your way from Passau to Budapest, Prague and Kraków. In Passau, embark a deluxe vessel of the prestigious Amadeus Premium Fleet, and cruise the

Danube River, stopping in Budapest, Hungary; Bratislava, Slovakia; Spitz, Vienna, and Melk, Austria. This comprehensive itinerary includes time in the medieval gems of Prague (three nights), Ceský Krumlov and Kraków (two nights), as well as a scenic rail journey across the Czech Republic and into Poland. A two-night Munich pre-program and a two-night Warsaw post-program are available.—From $3,495 ALASKAN ADVENTURES AUG. 24-31, 2011 Set sail on the elegant Oceania Cruises’ Regatta to some of Alaska’s most captivating attractions. This deluxe vessel comes complete with upscale amenities, exceptionally attentive service, lavish staterooms and the finest cuisine at sea. Explore some of the last frontier’s most stunning sights, and revel in the rugged splendor of an unspoiled land as you visit the historic towns of Wrangell, Skagway, Kodiak, Sitka and Ketchikan, and savor the majestic beauty of ancient glaciers, icy-blue fjords, soaring granite cliffs and unique wildlife. Let Alaska’s unrivaled landscapes enchant you.—From $3,999 CHICAGO—AN INSIDER’S PERSPECTIVE AUG. 30-SEPT. 4, 2011 Once a small settlement and a military base, today Chicago is one of the world’s leading cities in business and the arts. From the fashionable department stores

M.S. Le Diamant

attractively priced shore excursions, such as a visit to Florence to marvel at Michelangelo’s iconic “David.”—From $3,995 ISLAND LIFE IN ANCIENT GREECE AND TURKEY SEPT. 19-27, 2011 Cruise aboard the exclusively chartered, deluxe M.S. L’Austral, a state-of-the-art vessel launching in 2011, from the mythical relics of Athens, Delos and Troy, across the glistening waters of the Aegean, to the bustling bazaars and sparkling mosques of Istanbul. Visit Greece’s history-rich islands—Pátmos, Rhodes, Delos and Santorini. Along Turkey’s enchanting coast, stroll the marble-paved boulevards of Greco-Roman Ephesus, and visit the site of fabled Troy. Extend your journey with a pre-cruise option in Athens and a post-cruise option in Istanbul or Cappadocia.—From $3,295 Santorini, Greece

of Michigan Avenue to the impressive exhibits at world-renowned museums, from the history at Jackson Park to the dazzling modern architecture at Millennium Park, Chicago has something for everyone. Planned excursions include visits to the famed Art Institute to view its stunning works and Hyde Park to see the impressive architecture of the University of Chicago and the home of President Barack Obama. An exclusive series of discussions with Chicago insiders highlights the city’s famous politics, architecture, art and living in Chicago today. Best of all, ample leisure time gives you the freedom to explore other sites at your own pace from your city-center hotel.—From $1,995

JOURNEY FROM PROVENCE TO THE LIGURIAN SEA SEPT. 13-24, 2011 Join us for a unique journey that combines a delightful sojourn in Provence with a spectacular cruise on the four-star tall ship S.Y. Star Flyer along the French and Italian Riviera. Spend three nights in deluxe accommodations in Avignon; see Provence’s inspiring landscapes, palaces, monuments and ruins; walk in the footsteps of Paul Cézanne and Vincent van Gogh; and enjoy specially arranged wine tastings. From Cannes, sail to the seldomvisited islands of Corsica, Sardinia and Giglio and on to the stunning coast of the Italian and French Riviera. During the cruise, choose from a program of

CANADA AND NEW ENGLAND, FALL FOLIAGE—OCEANIA CRUISES (NEW YORK TO MONTREAL) SEPT. 30-OCT. 12, 2011 Experience the vibrant fall colors of New England and Canada on the beautifully appointed Oceania Cruises’ Regatta. Lose yourself at sea in the comfort and luxuries of fine cuisine, upscale amenities, staff devoted to your every need and lavishly appointed staterooms. Visit historic cities and picturesque ports in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Maine, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, Newfoundland and Quebec. This memorable cruise offers colorful landscapes, historic attractions and renowned landmarks.—From $3,799 AR

Winter 2011 49

News alumni

Class Notes Due to space limitations, class notes are only published in the Alumni Review from active, dues-paying members of the Ole Miss Alumni Association. To submit a class note, send it to records@alumni.olemiss.edu or Alumni Records Dept., Ole Miss Alumni Association, P.O. Box 1848, University, MS 38677-1848. Class notes also may be submitted through the association’s website at www.olemissalumni.com. The association relies on numerous sources for class notes and is unable to verify all notes with individual alumni.

’50s

BILL HICKS (BBA 59) was elected chairman of Historic New England, a comprehensive regional heritage organization that supports 36 prominent house museums and landscapes.

’60s

HOLMES ADAMS (BA 68) of Adams and Reese LLP was named a “Lawyer of the Year” dealing with trusts and estates in Jackson by Best Lawyers, a peerreview publication in the legal field.

’70s

W. WAYNE DRINKWATER JR. (BA 71, JD 74) was named a 2011 “Lawyer of the Year” by Best Lawyers, a peer-review publication in the legal field. M. DAVID EAST (BSPH 78) was named director of pulmonary services at the LSU-Bogalusa Medical Center in Bogalusa, La.

BERNARD LEONARD (BBA 73) was installed as chairman of the National Chicken Council, the trade association for the chicken production and processing industry. He is also group vice

president for food service at Tyson Foods, Inc. JOHN MACNEILL (BA 76, JD 79) was recognized as a 2010 Mid-South Super Lawyer in the area of personal injury defense by Memphis magazine. He is a founding shareholder of MacNeill & Buffington PLLC in Jackson. JOSEPH P. TESTA (JD 71) retired as a judge in the Superior Court of New Jersey. STEPHEN L. THOMAS (BA 70, JD 73) was named a 2011 Lawyer of the Year by Best Lawyers, a peerreview publication in the legal field.

Silver Honor FACULTY AND STAFF AWARDED FOR 25 YEARS OF SERVICE

he Ole Miss Alumni Association hosted an annual luncheon in December honoring faculty and staff who have worked for the university for 25 years. Ole Miss Alumni Association President Bill May presided, and Chancellor Dan Jones presented the awards. Honorees included Larry Agostinelli, Gerard Buskes, Richard L. Carlisle, John Cook, Ross Hankins, Jerry Harden, Alex D. Ivy, Kathy Knight, James S. Payne, Rachel Robinson, Paula Temple, Frank Wiggers, Lorri Williamson and Albert Willingham. AR

50 Alumni Review

’80s

MICHAEL BOUNDS (BPA 83) was named acting chief deputy U.S. marshal for the Southern District of Mississippi.

REED B. HOGAN (MD 80) was named as one of the 75 best gastroenterologists in America by Becker’s ASC Review. KENNETH C. JOHNSTON (BBA 88, JD 91) was elected to membership in the American Law Institute, which produces scholarly work to clarify, modernize and otherwise improve the law. JAMES H. “JIM” NEELD IV (BBA 82, JD 84) was elected president and CEO of the YoungWilliams PA law firm in Jackson. WALT SHINAULT (BBA 84) received a 2010 David Brady Award from Merrill Lynch. The Brady award recognizes employees who provide exceptional service to their clients, collaboration with their colleagues and contributions to their communities. He works as a Merrill Lynch financial adviser in the company’s Tupelo office.

’90s

DALLAS BAKER (BSME 93, MS 97) was elected to serve as vice president of the board of directors of the Air & Waste Management Association for 2011. He also works as an environmental engineer with the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality.

FroMThe GuysWho BroughtYou City Groceryand Bouré BIRTHS Baker Reed, son of Meredith Scott Brown (BA 03, BA 03) and Jason Edward Brown (BA 02, JD 05), May 13, 2010. Allie Katherine, daughter of Julie Gentry Callicutt (BA 05) and Joseph Daniel Callicutt Jr. (BAccy 05, BBA 05), June 25, 2010. Dylan Scott, son of Kristy Oilschlager Cohron (00) and Bryon D. Cohron (04), Oct. 12, 2010. Alexandra Grace, daughter of Casey Amborn Creasey (BA 02, JD 05) and Samuel Fenton Creasey, Jan. 11, 2010. Clayton Michael, son of Kelley Chiaventone Dacus (BSPh 01, PharmD 03) and Keith Allen Dacus (BA 04), April 6, 2010. Rhett William, son of Catherine Quaka Deweese (MEd 06) and Clay Allen Deweese (BBA 04), Feb. 19, 2010. Ava Louise, daughter of Nicole Genger Duffy (BA 99) and Frank Duffy, Oct. 5, 2010. Gaines Russell, son of Sarah Stevens Easterling (BBA 03) and Sy Russell Easterling (BS 04), Feb. 4, 2010. Andrew Neal Jr. and Katherine Clayton, twins of Stacey Sinclair George and Andrew Neal George (BBA 01, JD 08), April 14, 2010.

IN-House smoked bacon and sausage Mon.-Fri. 7 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Sat.-Sun. 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. 719 N.Lamar Oxford,MS (662) 236-2666 bigbadbreakfast.com

and our newest restaurant

’00s

TESSA HUGHES BURCHFIELD (BSFCS 01) accepted a position as assistant director for the Upward Bound Math & Science Center at Tougaloo College. ROBERT SAVOIE (BBA 07) joined the New Orleans office of the McGlinchey Stafford PLLC law firm, specializing in commercial litigation and consumer financial services.

The perfect place for cocktails, conversation and food.

WEDDINGS Susan Margaret Barfield (BA 10, BA 10) and Tyler Daniel Craft (BA 10, BA 10), June 12, 2010.

Oxford’s only raw bar featuring ApalachIacola Bay oysters

Jessica Leigh Bartz (BA 05) and Christopher Dewitt Tilghman (BSFCS 05), Aug. 5, 2010. Lauren Patricia Rosen (98) and Maury Brickell Breazeale (BA 03, MA 10), Oct. 9, 2010. Kimberly René Dodez (BFA 03) and Nicholas Barrett Guice, Oct. 10, 2010. Jacquelyn Stegner and M. David East (BSPh 78), Oct. 28, 2009. Mollie Bethea Watts (BBA 08) and Bret Alan Barger (BBA 07), June 5, 2010.

Ben Williams Minority Scholarship 2010-11 Ben Williams Minority Scholarship recipient Chris Bush. Photo by Pablo Corona

Monday-Saturday 4 P.M. - Midnight

721 N. Lamar Oxford, MS (662) 236-6363 www.snackbaroxford.com Winter 2011 51

News alumni

Carson Taylor Baxter, son of Jessica Leigh Long and Lain Hughes (BA 93), Nov. 11, 2010. Charles Quentin, son of Lindsay Pryor Jenkins (BA 02) and Marc R. Jenkins (BA 99), Jan. 26, 2010. Reeves Michael, son of Kelly Day Kenney (BA 98) and John Patrick Kenney (BS 96), Nov. 24, 2009.

Ann Faires, daughter of Chasity Johnson Thames (BSFCS 98) and James Kiley Thames Jr., Sept. 10, 2010. Gracie Pierce, daughter of Lauren Danielle Watson and Michael David Watson Jr. (BBA 00, JD 03), Aug. 12, 2010. IN MEMORIAM 1930s Ella Vasser Bishop (BA 38) of Oxford, Oct. 25, 2010 Lois Hansell Borden (BA 38) of Okolona, Oct. 26, 2010 Gabrilla Bedenbaugh Cummings (BA 39) of Boerne, Texas, Feb. 9, 2010

52 Alumni Review

Fall 2010

101 Must Reads

n an effort to expand membership benefits and take advantage of technological advancements, back issues of Alumni Review magazine are Recommended reading now being made available online. for Ole Miss alumni Utilizing the Issuu digital publishing platform, back issues are available for perusal as a digital version of Students expand horizons through study abroad the printed magazine, complete with Top alumni honored the rich photography, design and for achievement, service advertising you see in the print edition of Alumni Review. The publication can be viewed directly on your web browser, without the need to download files or meet special software requirements. The platform also includes a search function. “This new technology allows us to reach everybody everywhere,” says Alumni Association Assistant Director for Communications Jim Urbanek (BA 97). “Alumni and friends have told us over the years they’d like to be able to revisit older magazines from time to time or when they are away from home. We’ve also had requests from alumni who are overseas and unable to receive the printed magazine, so we hope this will help all of those people stay in touch with what’s going on at Ole Miss.” Recent back issues are available through the Alumni Association website at www.olemissalumni.com, and older issues will be digitized on an ongoing basis. AR VOL. 59 N O. 4

Molly Corbitt, daughter of Blair Manning Miles (BAEd 05) and Eric Miles, March 22, 2010.

ALUMNI REVIEW DEBUTS DIGITAL ARCHIVE FALL 2010

Hudson Lassiter, son of Allison Lassiter Horton (BAccy 98) and John David Horton, June 10, 2010.

Web Sights

OLE MISS ALUMNI REVIEW

William Corban Jr., son of Elizabeth Hoover Hughes Gunn (BSES 01, BSPhSc 05, PharmD 07) and William Corban Gunn (BBA 00, JD 04), Sept. 20, 2010.

Royal Reception HOMECOMING QUEEN REUNION A RESOUNDING SUCCESS

he 2010 Homecoming weekend boasted the first-ever reunion of homecoming queens at Ole Miss. Culminating a full day of activities, 36 past queens joined the 2010 homecoming court on the field of Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. Earlier in the day at the annual meeting of the Alumni Association, the former queens presented 2010 Homecoming Queen Diana Price with a scepter that she held throughout the ceremony. Scott Thompson (BA 97, MA 08), assistant director of the Ole Miss Alumni Association, which organized the event, said the idea for the reunion came from 2000 Homecoming Queen Annabeth Freeman Wyatt (BA 02). “Quite a bit of work went into figuring out what to do and how to make it special for the returning queens,” Thompson says. The returning queen who had held the crown the longest was Betty Koestler (57), who was homecoming queen in 1954. The reunion began Saturday morning with a welcome reception attended by the former queens and their families: 140 people all told. Alumni Association Immediate Past President Charles Clark (BBA 72) and his wife, Ginger (BAEd 73), hosted the reception and provided the women a chance to meet the 2010 queen and visit with each other. Ginger Clark presented the former queens with sashes signifying the year each one was crowned. For more information on school and organization reunions at Ole Miss, contact the alumni office at 662-915-7375. AR

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Winter 2011 53

News alumni

Tim Walsh (left), Mike Glenn, Larry Bryan, Bill May, Richard Noble and Sam Lane are the Ole Miss Alumni Association officers for 2010-11.

Leading the Way NEW ALUMNI OFFICERS NAMED AT HOMECOMING

mid the 2010 Homecoming activities, the Ole Miss Alumni Association announced its 2010-11 officers. Bill May (BA 79, JD 82) of Newton was named president, a one-year term that changes each homecoming. May is an attorney and partner with Hammack, Barry, Thaggard & May, LLP, in Meridian. “With record student enrollment, it is an exhilarating time to be an Ole Miss Rebel,” May says. “I am thrilled to serve Ole Miss as alumni president and excited to be part of our amazing and wonderful university family.” While at Ole Miss, May was a member of Sigma Nu fraternity. He and his wife, Judy (BAEd 80), have three daughters, Mallory, Anna Leigh (BAEd 08) and Natalie, and two grandchildren. “I predict that Bill will be one of the truly great alumni presidents because of his leadership and vision, coupled with his passion for Ole Miss,” says Alumni Association Immediate Past President Charles Clark (BBA 72). “He and his wife, Judy, will make a wonderful team.” May has served on the board of directors and the executive committee of the Ole Miss Alumni Association and has been a member of many Newton and Lauderdale County civic organizations. Richard Noble (BBA 68, JD 73) was elected the association’s president-elect. Noble is an attorney and partner with Crosthwait, Terney & Noble, PLLC, in Indianola. Larry Bryan (BBA 74) of Memphis was elected vice president. Bryan is the CEO and principal of Diversified Trust Co. Athletics Committee members include T. Michael Glenn (BBA 77) of Memphis and Sam Lane (BA 76) of Jackson. Glenn is executive vice president of market development and corporate communications for FedEx Corp., while Lane is senior vice president of First Commercial Bank in Jackson. AR

54 Alumni Review

WATERFRONT Paul Leach Klotz (BA 38) of Natchez, Nov. 19, 2010

Margaret Lewis Draper (BAEd 42) of Edinburg, Texas, May 22, 2010

Taylor E. Leonard (BA 37) of Mequon, Wis., Nov. 7, 2009

Vesta Marie Easterwood (BA 43, MS 44) of Memphis, Tenn., July 15, 2010

Kathryn Childress Nelson (BAEd 38) of Batesville, Oct. 27, 2010

Davis T. Fortenberry (LLB 49) of Hattiesburg, June 14, 2010

Ernest E. Penn Jr. (39) of Sheffield, Ala., Oct. 28, 2010

John Ellis Hartsfield (BBA 47) of North Little Rock, Ark., Oct. 24, 2010

1940s

Charles Lee Heberer (BBA 49) of Atlanta, Ga., Oct. 4, 2010

Edward Skinker Birchett (BBA 49) of Brentwood, Tenn., July 7, 2010

Bessie Woodward Jackson (BAEd 41) of Brooksville, June 19, 2010

T. Jack Blackmon (46) of Pearland, Texas, Jan. 30, 2010

Paul W. Johnson (BSEA 49) of Urbanna, Va., Sept. 1, 2010

James Othell Bounds (BBA 49) of Saint Louis, Mo., April 13, 2010

Archie Reeder McDonnell (BBA 48) of Meridian, Oct. 29, 2010

Joseph E. Branum Jr. (BBA 49) of Hattiesburg, Aug. 3, 2010

Milton H. Mitchell (LLB 46) of Brandon, Oct. 26, 2010

Robert Donald Comstock Jr. (BSC 43) of Atlanta, Ga., May 30, 2010

Maurice M. Mullendore (MedCert 43) of Muscle Shoals, Ala., March 7, 2010

Melva Cartwright Cox (BAEd 42) of Bains, La., Jan. 9, 2010

Arthur Coleman Pickle (MedCert 49) of Kosciusko, Oct. 5, 2010

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Winter 2011 55

News alumni

Valentine Hunter Sessions Jr. (BBA 48) of Walnut Creek, Calif., March 9, 2010 Richard Owen Shelton (41) of Covington, La., Jan. 5, 2010 Thomas Lamar Triplett (BAEd 49) of Hopkinsville, Ky., Nov. 21, 2009 Lillian Dooley Trumbull (BA 40) of Bethlehem, Pa., Oct. 8, 2010 Sam W. Waggoner III (BSCvE 43) of Flowood, Nov. 1, 2010 Betty Foster Wilder (BA 45) of Meridian, March 2, 2010 Honnoll Collins Windham (BSC 42) of Oxford, Oct. 12, 2010

1950s Mary Wilson Anderson (BAEd 56, MLS 62) of Sarah, Oct. 5, 2010 Myrtis Bost Barlow (BAEd 50) of Pontotoc, Nov. 14, 2010 Robert G. Barnett (BA 59, LLB 61) of Jackson, Nov. 13, 2010

Robert Cecil Cook Jr. (50) of Lucedale, Aug. 15, 2010 Ellen Gorton Daniels (52) of Belzoni, Nov. 18, 2010 Ephraim Edward Davidson (BBA 54, MBA 55) of Stillwater, Okla., Oct. 4, 2010 Mary Kethley Dossett (50) of Beulah, Feb. 5, 2010

Larry Odom Bonds Sr. (BA 57) of Houston, Oct. 19, 2010

William James Douglas (BAEd 50) of Goodyear, Ariz., Aug. 22, 2010

Herbin Peter Breaux (BSPh 51) of New Iberia, La., June 8, 2010

William Townsend Drury (BSPh 50) of Gainesville, Ga., Aug. 28, 2010

William Hamilton Carothers (BA 57) of Niceville, Fla., Oct. 6, 2010

Constance Blanche Earl (BSHPE 56, MEd 64) of Batesville, Oct. 5, 2010

Elizabeth Pinkston Collins (BA 54) of Atlanta, Ga., Oct. 13, 2009

Daniel Evander English (BA 50) of Mobile, Ala., Dec. 15, 2009

Herbert E. Dewees Jr. Alumni Association Lineal Descendant Scholarship 2010-11 Herbert E. Dewees Jr. Alumni Association Lineal Descendant Scholarship recipients. Photo by Pablo Corona

56 Alumni Review

Glenn Allen Gartelman (BSCvE 50) of Pasadena, Calif., Oct. 11, 2010

David Taylor Oates (BAEd 57) of Mesa, Ariz., Aug. 17, 2010

Mable Young Gaston (MLS 58) of Calhoun City, Oct. 13, 2010

Doyle Lamar Russell (BBA 57, MBA 58) of Pontotoc, Nov. 6, 2010

John Milton Giordano Jr. (MedCert 54, MD 57) of Citronelle, Ala., July 6, 2010

Flaud Kirby Smith Jr. (BSPh 50) of Vienna, Va., Sept. 25, 2010

Ben Thomas Gregory (BA 50, BS 52, MedCert 53) of Pensacola, Fla., Sept. 24, 2009

Kathryn Todd Watts (53) of Meridian, Nov. 19, 2010

Walter Forest Howard (BA 50) of Los Angeles, Calif., Aug. 9, 2009

Nancy Lane Wright (MA 50) of Chattanooga, Tenn., April 21, 2010

Jeff Powell Land (BBA 58) of Saltillo, Oct. 11, 2010

1960s

James Walter Lee (LLB 51) of Forest, Oct. 2, 2010

Harry Glenn Arnold (BSME 62) of Oak Ridge, Tenn., Nov. 5, 2010

Robert Lynn Lipsey Jr. (BA 50, MA 51) of Jackson, Tenn., Dec. 24, 2009 Donald Albert Maxwell (BSChE 50) of Medina, Tenn., Sept. 26, 2009 Thomas Dudley McDowell (BA 53) of San Antonio, Texas, Dec. 4, 2009 James Olin Mills (BSPh 50) of Springhill, La., Sept. 9, 2009

Fine Dining Overlooking the Historic Oxford Square

Grove Society Scholarship 2010-11 Grove Society Scholarship recipient Rhett Dixon. Photo by Pablo Corona

R. Lloyd Arnold (BBA 61, JD 65) of Tupelo, Nov. 3, 2010 James Luther Bonner (BA 61, LLB 64) of Cordova, Tenn., Oct. 5, 2010 James Wayne Burgoon Jr. (JD 66) of Greenwood, Oct. 23, 2010

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News alumni

More than a Walk ALUMNI PARTICIPATE IN WALK FOR SUICIDE PREVENTION

embers of the Student Alumni Council, Ole Miss Alumni Association Board of Directors and alumni staff participated in the “Out of the Darkness” walk on campus in November. The walk was held to raise money for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s vital research and education programs to prevent suicide, increase national awareness about depression and suicide, and provide support for survivors of suicide loss. AR

Eva Marie Keith (MM 61) of Blue Mountain, Nov. 8, 2010

Lois Scruggs Edwards (AMEd 70) of Clarksdale, Oct. 14, 2010

Wycliff Rusell Moore (MEd 74) of Jackson, Oct. 17, 2010

William Burton Mize (BBA 62) of Canton, Oct. 25, 2010

Charles Edward Gary (MEd 74) of Holly Springs, Nov. 3, 2010

Cynthia Mansel Olander (BSW 78) of Brandon, Oct. 25, 2010

Polly Harrington Rabalais (MEd 64) of Clinton, Nov. 13, 2010

Hanley Erwin Hasseltine (BA 70, MD 74) of Ridgeland, Oct. 16, 2010

Dana Francis Peterson (MS 72) of Maryland Heights, Mo., April 2, 2010

Helen Moak Stewart (BA 69, MCS 71) of Bogue Chitto, July 24, 2010

Deborah Mitchell Henry (BSN 73) of Madison, Oct. 10, 2010

David Clayton Replogle (MCS 73) of Madisonville, La., Oct. 26, 2010

George Wesley Truett (MD 61) of Jackson, Oct. 28, 2010

Nellie Patricia Hill (BA 77, MEd 79) of Houlka, Oct. 13, 2010

Karen Miller Stone (BA 75) of Carrollton, Texas, Nov. 9, 2009

John Mitcham Vernon (MBA 62) of Durham, N.C., Oct. 26, 2010

Robin Caroll Lavinghouze (BBA 78, MAccy 80) of Brandon, Oct. 30, 2010

1980s

1970s

Patsy Orr Mayo (MEd 71) of Learned, Nov. 19, 2010

Dawn Willingham Christian (82) of Fulton, Nov. 5, 2010

I.E. Cunningham Jr. (BPA 70) of Pearl, Oct. 29, 2010

Carol Noel McLaurin (BAEd 74) of Jackson, Nov. 19, 2010

William Butler Gile (EdD 84) of Decatur, Ala., Oct. 31, 2010

58 Alumni Review

Serving Oxford, Lafayette County and the University of Mississippi

TUESDAY, MAY 25, 2010

142ND Year, No. 169 — 50 CENTS

Run-off solution sought E-Edition booming

INSIDE

Erosion problems wash away county officials’ patience BY ALYSSA SCHNUGG Staff Writer

The Lafayette County Planning Commission has ordered the owners of Williams Equipment Co. to

produce a plan of action on how it intends to solve erosion issues once and for all at its construction site located across from the Cumberland subdivision. “I need a schedule of how this is going to progress with a time frame I can put my hands on by June 1,” County Engineer Larry Britt said at Monday’s Planning Commission meeting. Williams Equipment started con-

struction in the summer of 2008 on its new home for the commercial business on 4.3 acres of land located on Highway 6 West. Since construction began, neighbors have complained the runoff from the graded property has caused silt to run onto their lawns, destroying grass and bushes, as well as cause local flooding. A year ago, a cease and desist order was issued until erosion problems were handled.

“We have had some problems with erosion out there that we’ve been dealing with for a year and a half,” Britt said. When 3 inches of rain fell in Oxford within 30 minutes last week, the issue resurfaced when silt and water caused erosion on some of the adjoining landowners’ property. See SOLUTION on Page 2

Oxford schools set budget hearing

GRADUATION CELEBRATION

POMERANZ HONORED Ole Miss left-handed pitcher Drew Pomeranz was named as the recipient of the 2010 Cellular South Ferriss Trophy given to the top collegiate baseball player in the state of Mississippi. For more details on the honor, see Page 6.

BUSINESSMAN ARRESTED A local businessman who has been on the lam from the law was arrested last week. Get the details on Page 2.

EDUCATION NEWS Turn to Pages 6 and 7 of Education to find out what’s happening with local teachers and students.

UM GRADS

ONLINE

The Oxfo rd Eagle E-Edition helps you keep up w ith your home awa y from ho me Complete Coverage o Ofocuses le Monisother BP probe companies’ workf s Sp orts BRUCE NEWMAN

Many of the students graduating from the University of Mississippi earlier this month were from the Oxford area. Turn to Pages 5 and 10 to read the names of the locals who picked up a diploma.

INDEX

Classifieds 12-13 Local 2-3 Comics 14 Obituaries 2 Editorial 4 Sports 8-9 Education 6-7 Weather 2

Brittney Deonna Jeffries (from left), Wesley Lane Carroll and Kimberly Annette Wilson throw their caps at the Scott Center’s graduation ceremony on Monday afternoon. Also graduating were Laura Leeann Brower and Dillon Lee Hopkins.

Report: Oversite workers accepted gifts from oil companies

Number 1 Daily in Mississ ippi (Circula

BY GREG BLUESTEIN AND

MATTHEW DALY

Associated Press Writers

Guinness finds Minn. man is tallest in US ROCHESTER, Minn. (AP) — Guinness World Records has recognized a Minnesota man as the tallest man in the United States. The Guinness World Record Association measured Rochester’s Igor Vovkovinskiy (voh-kov-IN’-ski) at 7 feet, 8.33 inches tall during NBC’s “The Dr. Oz Show” on Monday. He edged out Norfolk, Va., sheriff’s deputy George Bell by a third of an inch. The 27-year- old Vovkovinskiy is originally from Ukraine but moved to Minnesota with his mother when he was 7 years old for treatment at the Mayo Clinic for a pituitary disease that spurred his rapid growth. Vovkovinskiy now attends the Minnesota School of Business and is pursuing a degree in paralegal studies. Guinness says the world’s urkey’s Sultan tallest man is Turkey’s Kosen. He measures in at 8 feet, 1 inch tall.

also owned the Deepwater Horizon oil rig. The other three areas of focus for the investigation involve the cementing and casing of the wellhead, which was Halliburton Inc.’s responsibility.

COVINGTON, La. — Oil giant BP said its internal investigation of Assessing decisions the unchecked Gulf oil spill In BP’s release, Chief is largely focused on work Executive Tony Hayward done by other companies as stopped short of assigning a new government report responsibility. President today showed workers at the Barack Obama has blasted federal agency that oversees executives from the compaoffshore drilling accepted nies for blaming each other sports tickets, lunches and during Congressional hearother gifts from oil and gas ings this month. companies. “A number of companies BP PLC said in a release are involved, including BP, that an initial investigation and it is simfound mulply too early tiple control “...it is simply — and not mechanisms too early — and not up to us — should have to say who p r e v e n t e d up to us — to say who is at fault,” the accident is at fault.” Hayward that started said. with an oil — TONY HAYWARD G e n e rig explosion Chief Executive, BP Beck, a April 20 off petroleum the coast engineer of Louisiana that killed 11 at Texas A&M at College workers. Station who worked in the Seeking the cause drilling industry for two BP, the largest oil and decades, said the list of gas producer in the Gulf, Gulf problems BP is investigating listed seven areas of focus appears exhaustive. But he as it hunts for a cause. Four said the company also needs involve the blowout pre- to look at decisions made by venter, venter a massive piece of people on the rig. machinery that sits atop the “That needs to be inveswellhead and should have tigated: Why did they do acted as a safety device what they did?” Beck said. of last resort but did not. “They need to ask themThat was manufactured selves that very very, very serious by Cameron International question: ‘Why did we make Corp. and owned by these choices?”’ Transocean LTD, which

PATRICK SEMANSKY/AP

Interior Secretary Ken Salazar (center) speaks at a press conference in Galliano, La., Monday. Standing behind Salazar are Sen. David Vitter, R-La., and Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal.

Meanwhile, a new Interior Department report released today found that staffers in the Louisiana office of the Minerals Management Service violated a number of federal regulations and agency ethics rules, including accepting gifts from oil and gas companies and using government computers to view pornography. pornography The report by the department’s acting inspector general follows up on a 2007 investigation that revealed what then-Inspector General Earl Devaney called a “culture of ethical failure” and conflicts of interest at the minerals agency. agency

Staff Writer

Worst-case scenario

tion Belo w 9,000)

Subscribe to the E-Edit ion Only $5 p er month

BY MELANIE ADDINGTON

Members of the Oxford School Board set a public hearing for June 14 at 5 p.m. for the public to discuss the district’s 2010-2011 budget. Despite continued budget cuts from the state during the past several months, the Oxford School District has put together a budget for the coming school year that ensures no jobs will be cut. The school board has a proposed $29 million budget that, while not yet finalized, won’t cut jobs and won’t raise the tax rate. On Monday, Gov. Haley Barbour signed the FY 2011 education funding bills, House Bill 1622 and House Bill 1059, Mississippi Department of Education Superintendent Tom Burnham said. “HB 1622 is the primary funding bill that we recommend (districts) develop the FY 2011 budget around,” Burnham said. “HB 1059 is contingent upon the passage of federal legislation that would extend the Federal Medical Assistance Percentage provided for in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.”

Interior Secretary Ken Salazar called the latest report “deeply disturbing” but stressed that it only covered a period from 2000 to 2008. He said he wants the investigation expanded to include agency actions since he took office in January 2009. BP filed its site-specific exploration plan for the Deepwater Horizon in February 2009. The Obama administration has come under increasing pressure as frustrations build, oil washes up in delicate Louisiana wetlands, and efforts to cap the well prove unsuccessful.

City school officials are basing their budget on the funding equation that provides Oxford the lowest amount of state funds. The board will not request any increase to the city’s tax rate, but the district still expects to experience an increase in revenue collections due to the additional taxes it projects to increase from new homes. Revenue is expected to be up about $420,000 from 2009-2010 for a total of $29.5 million. Mississippi Adequate Education Program funding is slightly down to $12.54 million from $12.56 million the year before. Ad valorem tax collections will go up from $14.1 million to $15.4 million. With athletic admission tickets expected to be down about $10,000, the district may have to dip deeper into its reserve funds. After the hearing, the board will vote on the budget. In other business, the school board: — Approved salary scales for employees, teacher assistants and administrators. — Approved a resolution in memory of the late Patricia P Aschoff SPED teacher at Aschoff, Oxford Learning Center. Marcia Cole accepted the plaque and resolution on family behalf of the family. —melanie@oxfordeagle.com —melanie@oxfor

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News alumni

David Edwards Parmley (BA 83) of Abingdon, Va., July 14, 2010 Kimberly Ann Snellings (BBA 88) of Bruce, Nov. 5, 2010 1990s Heath Harvey Barmettler (BSCS 93, MS 95) of Vicksburg, Oct. 9, 2010 Louis Eugene Caporaletti II (PhD 97) of Stow, Ohio, Oct. 16, 2010 Candace Carlisle Derivaux (BSW 93) of Vicksburg, Oct. 24, 2010 Craig Barksdale McIntire (BA 97) of Brandon, Nov. 12, 2010 Gregory Scott Smith (BBA 98) of Southaven, Oct. 19, 2010

Wobble Davidson M-Club Scholarship

Walter Francis Walls Jr. (PhD 97) of Ashland, Feb. 19, 2010

2010-11 Wobble Davidson M-Club Scholarship recipients pose with Sarah Davidson (front row, middle). Photo by Pablo Corona

2010s Mickey Devon Aldridge (10) of Starkville, Nov. 1, 2010

Jean Williams Cheek of Delhi, La., Oct. 27, 2010 Sarah R. Coleman of Lakeland, Fla., Sept. 5, 2010 Vernon Kenneth Daniels of Oxford, Oct. 27, 2010

Faculty and Friends

Walton B. Dunn Sr. of Tupelo, Oct. 4, 2010

William Henri Bessire of Memphis, Tenn., Oct. 13, 2010

Elinor W. Herrington of Olive Branch, Oct. 1, 2010

Donald Stephen Brown of Atlanta, Ga., Nov. 27, 2009

Teresa Yancey Moore of Germantown, Tenn., Oct. 18, 2010 Joy Moore Tindall of Indianola, Oct. 25, 2010

A SSISTED L IVING

•

To submit a class note, send it to records@ alumni.olemiss.edu or Alumni Records Dept., Ole Miss Alumni Association, P.O. Box 1848, University, MS 38677-1848. Class notes also may be submitted through the association’s website at www.olemissalumni.com. The association relies on numerous sources for class notes and is unable to verify all notes with individual alumni.

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