Oxford Magazine Jan/Feb 2023

It may seem like just a flight, but it is far more than that. Each journey is the culmination of careful planning, flawless execution, and an unbridled passion to provide the best in world-class customer service. It is in each friendly handshake with the industry’s best pilots and it is in the calm that takes over as you settle into your seat aboard a perfectly appointed aircraft, all Owned and Operated by NICHOLAS AIR.

Our commitment to provide the ultimate in private aviation experiences stretches back 25 years and yet each day, our team works diligently to refine every detail. From the personalized attention to our commitment to providing the highest quality aircraft to the Most Refined Set of Private Flyers, the NICHOLAS AIR team is solely focused on one mission--- yours.

contributors

EDITORIAL

Jake Davis

Kelby Zendejas

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Amelia Miller Ott

CONTRIBUTORS

Joey Brent

Jim Dees

Jan Henning

Bruce Newman

Lyn Roberts

Julie Mabus

Martha Catlette

DESIGN

Allison Dale

MARKETING

Clifton Clements Odom

Mike Haskins

ADMINISTRATION

Rebecca Alexander, Publisher

Donna Howard, circulation

Joey Brent, Photographer

Joey Brent is a local photographer in Oxford, Mississippi.

Julie Mabus

Julie Hines Mabus is author of Confessions of a Southern Beauty Queen and resides in Oxford

Martha Catlette PhD, PMHNP-BC, HWNC-BC

Martha has written extensively on mental health and well being and is a counselor in Oxford at Renewing the Mind

Jim Dees

Jim Dees is founder and host of Thacker Mountain Radio

Jan Henning, writer

Jan Henning is retired from Delta Airlines after a 30 year career as a flight attendant. She has a journalism degree from the University of Georgia and has written travel, home and garden stories for newspapers and magazines in Rock Hill, South Carolina; Frisco, Texas and the Oxford Eagle.

LLast year was expected to be a record year in the US for weddings with 2.5 million weddings, the most since 1984. Many brides and grooms put off their big day until they could celebrate with family and friends as in-person large gatherings returned to near normal.

In Oxford, couples who had put off plans, celebrated that they had the chance to have the wedding of their dreams. Enjoy the stories of the brides and grooms in this wedding edition.

Jan Henning offers us a peak into The Highlands home built specifically to bring as much of the outdoors in with stunning lake views at The Highlands. A nature lovers paradise that offers four seasons of outdoor excursions on the lake and wooded countryside.

We welcome Julie Mabus, famed author and former first lady of Mississippi to our list of distinguished contributors. She spent an evening with Oxford residents Harriett and Stephen Roberts that helps explain Harriett’s love of fine crewel embroidery and the connection to her family history.

Local counselor Martha Catlette looks into new to western medicine energy therapies. We also enjoy sharing photos of recent events in our Out and About section.

This begins our 7th year publishing Oxford Magazine. We are proud to have many paid subscribers who subscribe and welcome it into their home each month. If you sometimes miss a copy on newsstands, consider subscribing for $27 per year to get it delivered in your mailbox.

Rebecca Alexander Publisher

Alex Calhoon

Taylor Square Photography

Photo submitted

Design by Allison Dale

WHAT TO DO IN OXFORD

OXFORD COMMUNITY MARKET

Old Armory Pavilion

January - March | Every Tuesday | 12 - 3 p.m.

Ole Miss Baseball

Pitching & Catching Camp

January 16

Ole Miss Men’s Basketball Vs. Missouri

The Pavilion at Ole Miss January 24 | 6 p.m.

Ole Miss Women’s Basketball vs. Mississippi State

The Pavilion at Ole Miss January 26 | 8 p.m.

Ole Miss Men’s Basketball Vs. Kentucky

The Pavilion at Ole Miss January 31 | 8 p.m.

Ole Miss Women’s Basketball vs. Florida

The Pavilion at Ole Miss February 5 | 3 p.m.

Ole Miss Men’s Basketball Vs. South Carolina

The Pavilion at Ole Miss February 11 | 12 p.m.

Ole Miss Women’s Basketball vs. Kentucky

The Pavilion at Ole Miss February 13 | 6 p.m.

Ole Miss Men’s Baseball Vs. Delaware Swayze Field

Febraury 17 - 19

January/February 2023

JANUARY 18 - 22

Oxford Fiber Arts Festival

Powerhouse Community Arts Center

The festival celebrates the fiber arts with both inperson and virtual events. The festival begins with a Learning Lunch (Jan 18 @ noon) hosted by the Friends of the Lafayette County and Oxford Public Library.

24 different makers, menders, and creatives will be at the Powerhouse Makers Market on Friday and Saturday. Market hours are 9-5 on both Friday and Saturday. Join the Market Crawl for a chance to win fun prizes and Meet Our Makers all day on Saturday with scheduled hours for meet and greets. Go to https://www.oxfordfiberfestival.com/ for a full schedule of online workshops and shop tours.

JANUARY 27TH

The World of Musicals, Broadway Musical Revue

Gertrude C. Ford Center

7:30 PM

The World of Musicals brings the very best of musical theatre to life. This incredible and unique production is a wonderful revue of all your favorite musical songs, live in concert. Look forward to classic songs from iconic shows such as; Fiddler on the Roof, The Phantom of the Opera, Mamma Mia, West Side Story, Wicked, South Pacific, The Boy from Oz, Les Misérables, and many more.

The World of the Musicals is a show for the entire family. Colorful, inspiring and memorable musical classics, all performed by an international star-studded cast. Get ready to be enthralled and sing along to all your favorite and much-loved musical songs in one unforgettable evening.

JANUARY 25-27

Princess Ball

Powerhouse Community Arts Center

5:30 - 7:00 PM

The Princess Ball is open to any parent and child. Tickets include a meal from Chick-fil-A, beverages, art activities, music and dancing, photo booths and special gift for the child(ren). The Powerhouse will be transformed into an Encanto!

Presented by Chick-fil-A and the Yoknapatawpha Arts Council. Tickets are $25 per person. A select number of tickets for each night are available through the Art for Everyone program. Vouchers are available at the Lafayette County-Oxford Public Library and must be redeemed at the Powerhouse before the event. They cannot be redeemed at the door. Tickets are limited based on availability.

FEBRUARY 13TH

Step Afrika!

Gertrude C Ford Center

7:30 PM

Step Afrika! blends percussive dance styles practiced by historically African American fraternities and sororities; traditional West and Southern African dances; and an array of contemporary dance and art forms into a cohesive, compelling artistic experience. Performances are much more than dance shows; they integrate songs, storytelling, humor and audience participation. The blend of technique, agility, and pure energy makes each performance unique and leaves the audience with their hearts pounding. Founded in 1994 by C. Brian Williams, Step Afrika! is the first professional company dedicated to the tradition of stepping. Step Afrika! now ranks as one of the top ten African-American dance companies in the United States.

FEBRUARY 25TH

Lyle Lovett and his Acoustic Group

7:30 PM

A singer, composer and actor, Lyle Lovett has broadened the definition of American music in a career that spans 14 albums. Coupled with his gift for storytelling, the Texasbased musician fuses elements of country, swing, jazz, folk, gospel and blues in a convention-defying manner that breaks down barriers.

FEBRUARY 28TH

R.E.S.P.E.C.T- A Celebration of the Music of Aretha Franklin

7:30 PM

R.E.S.P.E.C.T is an electrifying tribute celebrating the music of the legendary Aretha Franklin. This concert experience takes audiences on a journey of love, tragedy, courage, and triumph. Starring a live band and supreme vocalists, come experience a night of music by one of the greatest artists of all time. The concert features all your favorite hits in one evening, including “Natural Woman,” “Think,” “I Knew You Were Waiting for Me,” “Chain of Fools,” “Respect,” and many more. You’ll be out of your seat and dancing in the aisles as you lose yourself in the music that inspired a generation.

WHAT TO DO IN OXFORD

Ole Miss Men’s Basketball Vs. Mississippi State

The Pavilion at Ole Miss

February 18 | 2:30 p.m.

Ole Miss Women’s Basketball vs. South Carolina

The Pavilion at Ole Miss

February 19 | 3 p.m.

Ole Miss Men’s Baseball Vs Arkansas State Swayze Field

February 21 | 4 p.m.

Ole Miss Women’s Basketball vs. Missouri

The Pavilion at Ole Miss

February 23 | 6 p.m.

Ole Miss Men’s Baseball Vs. MarylandSwayze Field

Feb 24, 26 | 4 p.m.

Ole Miss Men’s Basketball Vs. LSU

The Pavilion at Ole Miss

Febraury 25 | 7:30 p.m.

Ole Miss Men’s Basketball Vs. Texas A&M

The Pavilion at Ole Miss

Febraury 28 | 8 p.m.

ARTS & CULTURE An Evening with the Roberts

BY JULIE MABUS PHOTOS BY BRUCE NEWMAN

AAn evening at the Oxford home of Harriet and Stephen Roberts is the essence of elegance and whimsey. Fresh-cut flowers crown every surface, dazzling and eclectic artwork covers each wall, appetizers, drinks magically appear, and the music, (think of “Dancing in the Moonlight” by King Harvest). All this before Harriet serves her meal which are always showstoppers and her desserts which one speaks of in hushed tones. But today, I went with an agenda. I was to learn about the extraordinary art of crewel embroidery.

Thirty-five years ago, Harriet and Stephen moved from her Cambridge, Massachusetts birthplace to Brandon, Mississippi, Stephen’s hometown. They met when Stephen was at Harvard Law School. Eventually, Stephen brought his young bride to Mississippi where he began his law career.

Harriet joined the executive staff of Mississippi Governor Ray Mabus. Her cultural transition was a bit daunting. She witnessed state legislators grousing about the unacceptable end of the Civil War, a conflict she couldn’t understand. Her ancestors, John Hancock and William Dawes (who rode with Paul Revere) fought for a different cause.

I met Harriet shortly after the couple moved to Mississippi in 1988. She was shy and self-effacing, but a twinkle lay beneath that calm exterior. Among her many talents, she was an artist with a needle and thread and, in time, created smocked dresses and intricate costumes for my girls.

Two years ago Stephen, now a venture capitalist, fulfilled a promise and the couple bought a home in Oxford with a custom designed space for Harriet, a crewel embroidery studio. I had no idea of the genesis and scope of her talent until I attended one of their dinner parties. Harriet pointed to a remarkable piece of embroidery, “Tati did that one. She inspired me.” I made a mental note to ask.

Today, Harriet answered my questions. We talked for hours as she made a batch of butternut squash soup and a skillet of cornbread with two adoring Westies at her feet.

“Tati is my grandmother, my mother’s mother,” she responded. It became evident Harriet’s love of stitchery, art, cooking, and entertaining evolved through her close relationship with her grandmother and the early years she spent with Tati in Massachusetts.

Tati was Katharine Howe, born in Marblehead, Massachusetts, into a family of wealth and privilege. In her teens, Katharine met an Englishman, Christopher Jerome Teesdale Baker-Carr, at a country dance. Three years later, Katharine packed up her cello and sailed to England, where she and Christopher married in 1926. Displeased, her parents disowned her. Janet, Harriet’s mother, was one of three born of the union.

As armed tension mounted in Europe in the 1930s, Christopher retreated from the family to a military post in Africa. Katharine, who had given up her life of privilege, raised her children alone in Betchworth, a small town south of London, with very little help from her American family. But in those war-torn years, Katharine rediscovered her artistic talents.

After France fell to Germany in June of 1940, Hitler determined to

gain air supremacy over Britain in his plot to seize Russia, his next big prize. But he underestimated the will of the British people. The Battle of Britain, a military campaign fought entirely in the air, changed the course of World War II. But the bombings laid waste not only to London but the path leading out of the country as the Luftwaffe dumped their bombs to lighten their loads on their return trip to European air bases. Betchworth was on that path.

Katharine and the children picked up the pieces after two bombings of their home, but the psychological scarring was not so easily mended. Katharine used her artistic talents to salve her wounds with her cello, grand piano, hand-painted tole trays, and crewel embroidery.

The end of World War II was both gutwrenching and liberating for Katharine. After a six-year separation, her husband Christopher returned home, but he wanted a divorce. Katharine reconciled with her parents and moved back to Massachusetts with her two girls. Katharine later met and married Walter D. Edmonds, a prolific writer of some thirtyfour books, including ”Drums Along the Mohawk”, restoring Katherine to the lifestyle she had enjoyed half a lifetime before. Dinner in the home of Walter and “K” Edmonds became a much sought-after invitation with her gourmet cooking and incredible warmth in entertaining.

Harriet’s mother, Janet Baker-Carr, beautiful and talented, turned her energies to modeling, acting, writing, and classical music broadcasting (later Music Director for Public Radio Mississippi). She married and raised two daughters, Harriet and Kate, in Cambridge, Massachusetts, a short distance from Tati. Harriet absorbed the beauty of her grandmother’s stitching from an early age. “I think crewel had always been a part of my growing up, like the memory of Tati’s astonishing and ‘untouchable’ crewel armchair.”

In 2009, after teaching stitchery for over twenty years, Harriet turned her attention to Tati’s love—the thousand-year-old art of crewel work. “I was determined to learn how to stitch properly, but nobody does crewel embroidery in this country, so I searched the Internet and found Phillipa Turnbull.” Phillipa is a British scholar and extraordinary artisan in historical embroidery. She hails from a small village in northern England and has created and sold historically accurate crewel work kits for over twenty years.

Historical accuracy is a vital attribute of this art form. The oldest surviving crewel work embroidery is the Bayeaux Tapestry (though, technically, not a tapestry), a wall hanging depicting the Norman Conquest of 1066. By the 17th century Jacobean era (James 1st of England), the wealthiest and most prestigious families demanded intricate and opulent

embroideries, such as wall or bed hangings. In homes, women were the embroiderers. But professionally, men designed and produced the lavish work.

Historical accuracy was a characteristic Harriet admired in Phillipa. “We hit it off instantly, and, within several years, I became Phillipa’s exclusive tester for her kits.” One of their first and most significant projects was a bedhanging at Muncaster Castle in Ravensglass, England. With permission from the Pennington family, who have lived in the castle since 1208, Phillipa used the centuries-old bedhanging to recreate the pattern. After covering it with acetate, she traced the designs with a black marker. She then put linen fabric on the acetate with light below and drew the design from the acetate onto the linen.

The original design of the

bedhanging is a Jacobean interpretation of the “Tree of Life. Evocative images of overflowing pomegranates and lilies extending their generative parts anoint the image. Desert and forest animals overrun the tendrils and roots of the tree. It is a masterpiece.

When Harriet received the oversized box from Phillipa filled with the 60 x 72 inch linen fabric

on which Phillipa had drawn the finished design, 105 hanks of wool (11 miles in length), and no instructions, Harriet’s magic began. After two years, using photographs of the original bedhanging and the help of a custom-made embroidery slate frame, Harriet completed the stitch instructions for this massive kit.

At last count, The Crewel

Work Company has sold nearly one hundred Muncaster bedhangings. In addition to the Muncaster design, Phillipa has created over fifty different embroidery kits. And Harriet has stitched them all.

One last story about Harriet’s remarkable talents is a stunning example of her life experiences. Before Harriet and Stephen married, she lived a year with her grandmother, Tati, in Concord, Massachusetts. Because Tati could no longer cook and entertain the way she once had, she asked Harriet to prepare and serve a meal for a dinner party of six. Harriet prepared pork tenderloin, new potatoes, asparagus, and chocolate cake. When the guests arrived, Harriet heard a distinctive voice. It was Julia Child. I asked Harriet how Julia enjoyed the meal. Harriet laughed, “She cleaned her plate.”

$2.50 Margaritas with the purchase of a meal

HOME & GARDEN

Lake Home in The Highlands is a Warm Retreat For All Seasons

BY JAN HENNING PHOTOS BY BRUCE NEWMAN

Warm memories are handsomely present in The Highlands Lake home of Sandy and Bill Gates. Their light filled lake house lies perfectly nestled among five acres, and cordially welcomes family and friends to the abundant inside and outside gathering areas – seemingly made for entertaining.

The couple has deep roots in Oxford; Bill grew up on campus where his father was director of athletic publicity for 38 years; Sandy transferred to Ole Miss as a junior from Texas where her family had moved several years earlier. When Bill retired in 2011 from his insurance

January/February 2023

Wcorporate casualty career after 40 years in Memphis, the Gates returned to a place they already loved.

“Our son William was the one who found The Highlands,” Bill says. “He loves fishing and the outdoors and encouraged us to take a look, and we fell in love with the area.” The couple found the house plans for their onestory home on the internet and with some clever tweaking transformed the design to suit their preferences. “Bill got a wine cellar and I got half a laundry room,” Sandy explains with a smile. “We knew we wanted built-ins for books and treasured mementoes in the living room. Our decorator, the

late Virginia Roberts suggested taking out a wall of cabinets in the kitchen,” Sandy says and the kitchen was given a big dose of wide-open space.

Thoughtful and intentional planning however has given the house what the couple both agree is their favorite part - the lake views. “I stood on the lot and laid out where the house would sit for the best views. I wanted to be able to see from the front door all the way through the house to the lake.” Bill says. “I drove a stake where the back doors are.” Marty Daniels built their home expertly situated to ensure the outdoor scenery has a continual aesthetic of light, water and

nature.

The couple’s daughter, Christy Miller, of Memphis helped the couple decorate their home using most of their former furniture and antiques while melding in newer pieces that offer subtle contrast where needed. “We used all the furniture we had and made it work,” Sandy says. The foyer welcomes beautifully with a tapestry Christy found depicting a fishing scene with a palette of soft gold and green suspended above a 130-year-old library table from the home of Bill’s mother. The dining room includes an eyecatching chandelier that sparkles in the oversize gold leaf mirror above the expansive sideboard. Polished dark hardwood floors

flow throughout the formal areas and are softened with area rugs in a palette of subdued blue, cream and soft orange creating a serene tone.

Ease and elegance converge in the living room where cushy seating upholstered in calm neutrals fit comfortably around an iron and glass topped coffee table. Soft pillows in a bold salmon shade add strokes of color, and a wall of windows and French doors frame picturesque views of the outdoors. The coffee table features one of Christy’s exquisitely carved

sculptures. “She shapes the piece from a big piece of marble.” Sandy explains. “She looks at a big piece of stone and know what it’s going to be.” Strikingly displayed on the custom built-in bookcase is Bill’s “Alumni Service Award,” an artfully crafted crystal bowl atop a dark brown base. Providing another conversation area and functionality, a perfectly proportioned chestnut table with four creamy upholstered club chairs translates into a “great place for dinner and looking outside,” Sandy says.

In the kitchen, Christy chose a wellappointed veined marble countertop composed with a fluid curve that mimics a flowing river. Another marble sculpture Christy created graces the kitchen with its luxurious design. A backsplash in ceramic glazed tiles in a mocha hue and walnut cabinets add a bold contrast to the light-colored walls throughout the home.

Bill’s study is the heart of the couple’s love for all things associated with Ole Miss. Anchored by his sizable desk, the bookcases abound with an arsenal of

memorabilia and awards that distinguish a life dedicated to the University and service. Walls are highlighted with framed photographs of championships and special moments in all sports including the baseball team’s recent national championship. Helmets and footballs signed by coaches and notable players intertwine with numerous plaques to commemorate milestones such as “Rebel of the Year” and leadership roles of various organizations. An especially treasured photograph features Sandy and Bill’s mothers standing together with Tom Brokaw in the Grove on a beautiful football Saturday.

A hallway leads to the home’s wine cellar that Bill describes as “more wine than we’ll ever drink.” An intriguing light fixture boasts a dozen wine bottles in the perfectly temperature-

controlled room. “I’ve been collecting wine for 25- 30 years,” Bill says of his cellar that includes vintage wines from around the world.

The homeowner’s screened-in back porch and multiple decks seamlessly transform the outdoors into a soothing retreat to enjoy the beauty of nature without ever having to leaving home. The porch provides an intimate seating area, and tucked into one corner of the deck a wrought iron table and four chairs clad in a subdued kaki color invites morning coffee; in the opposite corner custom built-in seating with soft cushions is ideal for relaxing; twin swivel chairs have front row seats of the water and enjoying evening beverages. The couple loves to entertain, and the decks became particularly relevant during the pandemic when neighbors and friends could safely social distance outdoors. Large stone pavers and gravel paths lead to the pontoon and fishing boat docks, and the north facing backyard ensures everything is drenched in soft, serene sunlight.

Lake living has something special to offer the Gates family year-round. They enjoy sunset boat cruises in the summer, and their five grandchildren love to fish and swim in the lake. “The fall is beautiful and the lightning storms are fascinating to watch,” Sandy says. “It’s a little slice of heaven.” Winter, however, has its own special pleasures. Bare tree limbs stand silhouetted against the sky, shadows bouncing off the shimmering blue water. A cozy fire beckons inside. A collected home celebrates the best of life and a reminder that life is a fun journey.

WWhen Ross Hester and Joe Stinchcomb opened Bar Muse in the newly renovated lobby of the Lyric Theater, the vision did not stop there. The former Saint Leo managers partnered with former sous-chef Patrick Hudgins to create Good Day Cafe, the newest local lunch spot in the alley between the Lyric and South Depot.

Drawing inspiration from New Orleans favorite Turkey & The Wolf, Good Day is quickly establishing itself as a fan-favorite in a town full of options.

“We wanted to carve out a niche for something that Oxford didn't have,” said Hester. “A place that focused primarily on elevated, craft sandwiches.”

Good Day Cafe prides itself on sourcing ingredients locally and maintaining a relationship with the north Mississippi food community.

Home Place Pastures in Como provides the beef for The Good Burger, a best-burger contender topped with house-made pickles, fried shallots, and a garlic mustard aioli.

During the Spring and Summer seasons, one can expect to find playful uses of fresh, local produce from Oxford Community Market. Good Day also values its relationship with Chicory Market, and has plans for continuing its chef pop-ups in 2023.

Head Chef Patrick Hudgins, another Saint Leo alum, uses his creative kitchen experience to craft the Good Day menu and introduce Oxonians to new flavor profiles.

“We try to take a classic chicken sandwich and elevate the flavors by incorporating a Korean fried chicken marinade and a kimchi cucumber slaw to take the sandwich to the next level,” said Hester. “ I try to come up with clever names to keep things fun.”

When asked about how their time at Saint Leo has helped them in the genesis of their newest venture, Hester notes that the hospitality industry teaches both problem-solving and teamwork.

“You learn how to serve and take care of not only your guests and community but your team and staff as well,”

said Hester. “Managing at Saint Leo taught me a lot and having an MBA also helped.”

The alley has a history of fun lunches. In years past, Corbin Evans’s Oxford Canteen occupied the space and provided a unique and affordable option to both locals and visitors.

“I remember the first time I ate in the alley and the first time I had a Mexican Coke and the Brisket Grilled Cheese,” said Hester. “It was incredible. It's really exciting to get to reinvigorate the space and build on what Canteen started. We still carry Lulu's Iced Coffee from Corbin, so a little piece of the original Canteen lives on.”

Success for Good Day Cafe is a customer who comes back to the window to give praise to the sandwich. Financial success comes from happy guests, according to Hester.

With students returning from Winter break, Oxford’s biggest attractions, Springtime and Baseball, give Hester, Stinchcomb, and Hudgins a lot to look forward to.

Good Day envisions growth in the Spring

and hopes to open for more days during the week while maintaining a steady stream of happy patrons.

Mississippi’s curious weather patterns have not stopped business in the alley, as online ordering and Fetch delivery have ensured that anyone can have a Good Day.

Lyric owners Bradley Bishop and Lindsay Dillon-Maginnis have created a masterpiece by utilizing their newly renovated space to include not only Oxford’s finest cocktail bar, but also its newest culinary treasure, Good Day Cafe.

“Bradley and Lindsay have been incredibly supportive of both Bar Muse and Good Day Cafe,” said Hester. “They opened up their space to us and have always been some of our biggest supporters.”

Good Day Cafe and its customers are thankful that the long-vacant alley window kitchen is back, serving an exciting and creative menu. Tacked onto the side of the historic Lyric Theater, the new restaurant is poised to have a busy Spring, with plenty of foot traffic returning to the Oxford Square.

BY MARTHA CATLETTE

HHave you thought about trying something new for your health and wellbeing in 2023?

There are many alternative health practices that have become popular within the broad category of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) tracked by the National Institute of Health. In the United States CAM is used by approximately 38 % of adults and 12% of children.

Examples of CAM include alternative modalities such as acupuncture, homeopathy, Ayurveda and Oriental medicine, as well as nutritional, mindbody (meditation and yoga), and energy therapies. Many of these CAM practices are also used to help people cope with illnesses such as cancer and can specifically help with the side effects of treatments, such as nausea, pain, and fatigue, as well as to help comfort and allay anxiety and bring peace of mind.

https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/ health/wellness-and-prevention/typesof-complementary-and-alternativemedicine

WHAT ARE ENERGY THERAPIES?

Energy therapies are alternative health practices based on the concept

that every cell of the body is made of energy and that energy is continually flowing within and throughout the body. Energy blockages can occur at specific energy center points along the spine and cause imbalances of mind and body that can lead to illness and disease. https:// www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/ energy-therapy

WHAT IS REIKI AND HOW CAN IT HELP ME?

Reiki is a popular energy therapy that is recognized and practiced worldwide in treating a variety of health conditions. Reiki is non-invasive and uses the hands to transmit energy to the body for stress reduction and relaxation. Reiki is used to complement traditional therapies in a variety of settings to include private healing practices, hospitals, and hospices.

The practice of Reiki was developed by Mikao Usui in Japan in the early 1900’s, The term Reiki comes from the Japanese words “rei” (universal) and “ki” (vital life force energy). The effectiveness of Reiki is based on the concept that life force energy flows through all living things. This same energy is known as “Chi” in Chinese medicine and “prana” in Ayurvedic

medicine which originated in India. A Reiki practitioner is trained to channel life force energy through the palms of the hands directly to the recipient. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/ reiki/

“Reiki is a safe and gentle ‘complementary’ therapy that activates the parasympathetic nervous system to heal body and mind. It has potential for broader use in management of chronic health conditions, and possibly in postoperative recovery. Research is needed to optimize the delivery of Reiki.” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/ pmc/articles/PMC5871310/

What Outcomes for Reiki Have Been Studied?

The primary areas of Reiki benefit that have been studied and measured include pain, anxiety, and stress by assessing heart rate, blood pressure, and stress hormone levels. Since Reiki is an energy practice it is difficult to study it in the traditional way. Measures that incorporate the lived experience, quality of life, patient satisfaction, and stress reduction may more accurately reflect the benefits of Reiki. https://www. takingcharge.csh.umn.edu/explorehealing-practices/reiki/what-doesresearch-say-about-reiki

WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT AT A REIKI SESSION?

The Reiki recipient lies on a massage table fully clothed while the Reiki practitioner places the palms of their hands on or just above different energy centers of the body. During the session other therapies such as aromatherapy and crystals may be used.

the flow of energy. The session generally lasts 30 to 90 minutes, with one hour being typical.

The Reiki practitioner only holds their hands in strategic places and no massage takes place. If touch is used it is very light, no more than the pressure of a coin being placed on the skin. The recipient may feel tingling, warmth, or pulsation

does not mean that Reiki is not effective.

The practice of Reiki is based on the understanding that energy knows where to go. The practitioner has been trained to channel energy; they are not doing the healing themselves. The channeled energy enhances the recipient’s own healing capacity. Some people become so relaxed that they fall asleep. Often the benefits of the session are noticed by the recipient at a later time. https://www.webmd.com/pain-management/reiki-overview#091e9c5e816f3690-12nges

WHAT SHOULD I LOOK FOR IN REIKI PROVIDER?

Like many alternative modalities, Reiki certification and training is not regulated so it is important that a Reiki practitioner has completed a reputable certification program. Most Reiki certification programs

offer beginner, intermediate and advanced levels. Level I Reiki certification focuses on learning to provide self-Reiki which is a great way to educate oneself and have easy access to Reiki benefits. Level II requires a high level of self-understanding and considerably more knowledge for providing Reiki to others. Level III is the master level that prepares the practitioner to teach Reiki to others. https://rtt.com/ reiki-/

WHY NOT TRY REIKI?

If the idea of Reiki resonates for you, I encourage you to try it! Many people find benefit and will testify that Reiki is helpful in creating calm, peace of mind and healing. Having an open mind is essential so that you can receive the full benefits. Energy flows when there is openness and willingness, so if that describes your attitude-Give it a try!

House of Eve

by Sadeqa Johnson

Taking on another fascinating under-told piece of women’s history in this well-researched new novel, the author of Yellow Wife illuminates the impact of unwed pregnancy through the alternating narratives of two young Black women in the 1950s.

BOOKS FOR WINTER

Recommendations from LYN ROBERTS

General Manager, Square Books

Paradise is Jagged

by Ann Fisher-Wirth

In this extraordinary collection, Ann Fisher-Wirth looks levelly at mortality, grief, and memory, and reckons with what it is to be urgently alive, bringing her incisive nuance to subjects ranging from the loss of a beloved sister to Mississippi’s Parchman Penitentiary to our imperiled natural world to the comforts of marital love.

Somebody to Love

by Valerie June, Marcela

Avelar, & Chet Weise

Decent People

by De’Shawn Charles Winslow

A triple murder shocks a small North Carolina town into confronting its deepest fears and darker secrets lingering in the wake of the civil rights era.

Grammy nominated musician Valerie June’s Somebody to Love: The Story of Valerie June’s Sweet Little Baby Banjolele is a children’s book based on the story of how June wrote the song “Somebody to Love” from her album Pushin’ Against a Stone. The story is inspiring for children and beautifully illustrated with vivid watercolors.

The Southern Way of Life by

Charles Reagan Wilson

In this examination of the American South in national and global contexts, celebrated historian, University of Mississippi Charles Reagan Wilson assesses how diverse communities of southerners have sought to define the region’s identity.

A Few Days Full of Trouble: Revelations on the Journey to Justice for My Cousin and Best Friend, Emmett Till

by Reverend Wheeler Parker Jr. and Christopher Benson

The last surviving witness to the lynching of Emmett Till tells his story, with poignant recollections of Emmett as a boy, critical insights into the recent investigation, and powerful lessons for racial reckoning, both then and now.

Moonrise Over New Jessup

by Jamila Minnicks

Winner of the 2021 PEN/Bellwether

Prize for Socially Engaged Fiction, a thought-provoking and enchanting debut about a Black woman doing whatever it takes to protect all she loves at the beginning of the civil rights movement in Alabama.

Wedding Moments 2023

Capturing a wedding is unlike any other event for photographers. This is a photographers showcase for the best photos capturing the moments that will be cherished for a lifetime.

6 Reasons to Hire an Event Planner

BY ELLEN THOMAS

PHOTOS BY ASHLEY UPCHURCH PHOTOGRAPHY

EEllen Thomas’ passion for event planning started at a young age. After graduating from the University of Mississippi in hospitality management, Ellen began her career in Nashville, Tennessee, where she planned weddings and corporate and music-industry events for some of the top music labels and artists in the United States. After four fun-filled years, she felt the call to come back home to Mississippi and start her own company. Thus, Ellen Thomas Event Design was born. With nearly 10 years of experience in the event industry, Ellen thrives off of the creativity and collaboration required in the fast-paced world of event design. She values her teammates, clients, vendors, family, and friends. Ellen is one of the leading event planners in the South. She is dedicated to bringing a cutting-edge vision to her designs. We caught up with Ellen to discuss her top reasons for hiring an Event Planner for your special day.

1. TO CREATE A MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE

There are so many components that go into planning a wedding. Choosing a venue, photographer, florist, caterer, and the various other vendors involved can be very overwhelming. Hiring a wedding planner cuts out so much unnecessary stress. Being engaged is supposed to be a fun and memorable experience!

Couples can save so much time and focus on the fun stuff by letting a professional handle the hard work!

2. TO BRING THE CLIENTS’ VISION TO LIFE

Wedding design has changed so much in the past five years. Details such as florals, rentals, lighting, and other installations just keep getting bigger and better. And with the presence of social media, couples can get flooded with photos, family comments, and different ideas. A wedding planner will help bring a couple’s vision to life and stay on budget while doing so.

3.TO ENSURE PROFESSIONAL VENDORS ARE SELECTED TO FIT THE CLIENTS’ NEEDS

The wedding industry is growing rapidly every year, adding more and more vendors to the profession. With so many to choose from, a planner becomes a huge asset in helping find the best fit. Couples don’t need to spend hours searching for the right photographer or videographer. A wedding planner will have a list of reputable vendors they have worked with on previous events and can make recommendations.

4.TO TAKE CARE OF THE LITTLE DETAILS

Staying 5 steps ahead is our job as a wedding planner! There are so many little details behind the scenes that couples don’t even think about. From the vendor execution, to designing your timeline, and all the necessities in between, a wedding planner prioritizes those items to make sure nothing is overlooked.

5.TO GET THE BEST VALUE FOR YOUR BUDGET

The B word that we all hate….Budget! Who wouldn’t want to have an unlimited budget? But lets face reality, most couples have one. The most important thing when hiring a wedding planner is being honest with the budget from day one. A planner will help a couple stay on budget all while working with professional vendors to get the best value for the money spent.

6. TO PUT OUT FIRES ON EVENT DAY

Social media has put a lot of pressure on weddings being perfect, but in reality life isn’t perfect. Bad weather occurs; vendors, bridal party or guests become sick. Luckily, a wedding planner is there to put out those fires without the couple even knowing they have taken place.

Whether your event is big or small, simple or lavish, Ellen Thomas Event Design can help couples make their dream day come true! Check out Ellen’s services at www. ellenthomaseventdesign.com. Ellen can also be reached by telephone at 662.307.4404 or by email at ellen@ ellenthomaseventdesign.com

Q: What brought you and Nick into the catering business?

A: We’ve both been in and out of the catering business for most of our adult life. My first catering job was while I was in college and I’ve worked for several since then. Nick’s cooking career began at 15 years old in a restaurant in Memphis and he began catering in his early twenties.

Between the two of us, prior to opening our own company, we’d experienced working in entertainment at concerts and festivals, weddings, corporate events, fundraisers, banquets and in home private dinners. We opened our company in Oxford in December of 2014.

Originally our plan was for the company to be just the two of us, but that quickly evolved into something different within a year. We feared there wouldn’t be room for another caterer in Oxford, but we quickly found out that wasn’t true at all. Oxford truly is a destination for weddings and with all the venues here, it keeps all the caterers in town busy, so there was definitely room for another caterer.

Q: What is the most unusual request you’ve ever gotten?

A: I’m not sure about unusual, but the most unique requests we receive are

Q&A

Angie Sicurezza

A&N Catering

when we’re asked to pay homage to a client’s family heritage. Maybe not for the entire menu, but perhaps a station dedicated to something special in honor of the family. We absolutely love doing this! And Nick loves the challenge if it’s something he’s unfamiliar with. Iit gives us the opportunity to work closely with our client to make sure we properly execute their vision.

Q: What are food favorites for weddings?

A: Of course, all things southern! Some of the more popular requests are for our raw bars, charcuterie tables, smoked beef tenderloin carving stations, maybe a fun twist on a taco station with beef brisket and fried catfish, but really, if you can dream it, we’d love to make it.

Q: How to determine how much food per guest?

A: Ooh, this is a tricky one. A lot goes into this equation. Buffets are the hardest, but we take a lot into consideration when planning for this. The number of items on a menu, the time of day, the time of year, the type of menu all play a part in our ordering process. Really, there is no real, true answer for us here. I wish there were –but it really depends on each event. We never want to run out of food nor have

too much leftover, so we work closely with our clients to determine the formula needed for their event. For a seated/ plated event, that’s easy since everything is pre-ordered according to their guest count.

Q: Are you seeing more seated dinners or mostly buffets? What are the pros & cons of each?

A: I’d say, 20%/80%, but we’ve definitely seen an uptick in seated dinners in the past couple of years. When I lived and worked in California, this is pretty much all we did, so I love doing this service format, and we certainly welcome it! We love family-style as well! Pros for seated dinner, for us is that we know exactly how much food to order! I wouldn’t say there is a con, but a challenge would be something like making sure we have the proper equipment and space to execute a seated/plated meal at any given venue. There is quite a bit of logistical planning that goes into a seated/ plated event. I wouldn’t be able to name cons for the client, but again maybe some challenges, but that’s why they hire a caterer, a wedding planner and a reputable rental/design company to make it easier and to do the work for them!

Q: Why should someone hire an event caterer?

A: Well, we take all the guess work out of planning a menu and executing an event. We know budgeting, seasonal availability, quantities to order, proper storage to keep the integrity of the food for and during the event, presentation, planning and communication with other vendors, and knowing what works best in certain venues. We take the stress out of it, we listen, bring their vision to life, and we make it fun!

A&N Catering is owned by Angie and Nick Sicurezza and is located at 2 Town Square Lane in Taylor, MS. https://www.ancateringms.com/

LeoghainChance&Fair

How we met

In 2014, Ole Miss baseball made it to Omaha for the college World Series. Chance and I met the night of 6/20/14 during a rain delay of the Ole Miss vs TCU game. Chance was trying to find people to go with him and his friends overnight to Omaha. I wouldn’t go with them, having just met them, but I did accept his invitation to lunch when he got back to town two days later after the Rebs lost to Virginia in the Semi Finals. Flash forward to 2022, we married opening weekend of Ole Miss Baseball and four months later I finally went to Omaha with him and we watched the Reba win the Series!

Tell us about the proposal

We took a long weekend to Chattanooga and he stunned

me while kayaking on the Tennessee River.

Describe your Wedding Dress romantic, flowy, glittery, lace and tulle sweetheart neckline with off the shoulder straps

Favorite Moment from your Big Day

Besides spending the day in Oxford with our friends and family, we loved taking some time for ourselves between the ceremony and reception to take photos around campus and the square.

Favorite Wedding Details Our powder blue pompoms and the baseball themed party send off

What you're doing now

Chance and I are both proud Ole Miss Undergrad and Law School graduates working as attorneys in the Golden Triangle. As of this moment, we are preparing for our belated two week honeymoon to Europe. We are so excited to see Christmas in Switzerland!

Ceremony date 02/19/2022

Venue

Paris Yates Chapel

Reception Venue

The Powerhouse

Wedding planner

I planned everything but Andra Hurst was a fabulous help as Day Of Coordinator

Photographer

Peyton Neal and Chloe Long as photographers

Florist

I used wood carved flowers

Caterer

Party Waitin to Happen

Wedding dress

Hair and Makeup

Amanda Kent and JANSEN

Music

DJ Max Victory

Allure Bridal

& Johan Backstrom Allie

How did you two meet?

We met at Ole Miss where we were both on the mens and womens tennis teams. We began dating in early 2013 and have been together ever since!

Tell us about the proposal June 1st has always been a special day for us and one that we celebrate annually. It all started on June 1st 2013 when we said “I love you” to each other for the first time. Flash forward 6 years later to 2019, we were living in New York at the time. Johan always knew he wanted to propose on June 1st to keep adding to the happy memories we have surrounding that date. Allie’s favorite place in New York is Central Park, so Johan planned a full day in the park on June 1st that ended with champagne and potato chips (a wonderful combination if you ask us), Allie giving Johan a yearly scrapbook of the year together and ultimately Johan’s proposal. It was perfect and so thoughtful. We continue celebrating June 1st every year!

Describe your Wedding Dress

My wedding ceremony dress was simple and classic. Made of a white crepe material with a slight sweetheart neckline, fairly fitted throughout and thin straps. My veil was floor length and layered. I would describe it as a mix between modern and classic, and I loved it! For my reception, I ended up getting a second dress at the last minute because I wanted to be able to dance the night away! I loved that dress as well and it was so sparkly and fun!

Favorite Moment from your Big Day

We waited an extra 2 years to have all of our favorite people together due to border closures with the pandemic, so my favorite moment was probably standing up in the church with Johan saying our vows knowing that our family and friends were all there with us supporting us. However, a very close second favorite moment was our first dance. Johan is Swedish and I love all things ABBA (who are Swedish), so we danced to a mash-up that I mixed of all of our favorite ABBA songs and had the time of our lives. It was like floating on a cloud the whole time and we can’t help but smile every time we watch it back.

Favorite Wedding Details

I love when weddings have personal touches sprinkled throughout, so I wanted to bring that to ours. When we lived in New York our offices were actually across the street from each other and in between them there was a giant “LOVE” sign which we

always thought was cute, so for our wedding we had the “LOVE” sign recreated into a neon sign that hung behind the guest book and the grooms cake. The grooms cake was a replica of the ole miss center court (by the Flour Garden) which was so special and meaningful to us as tennis is what brought us together in the first place. Oxford Floral absolutely knocked it out of the ballpark with the florals. I also loved how Elizabeth Heiskell tied the food offerings to our roots by having a southern station and a Swedish station. The verdict is still out on which station was the favorite because everything was just so tasty! One of the cutest touches which was a total surprise to us was when we did the send-off, my parents had worked with our wedding planner (Ellen Thomas Event Design) and Oxford Floral to have a beautiful old-timey white convertible pick us up with tennis balls tied to the back of the car instead of bells. It was the perfect touch that tied everything together and sent us

off into married life. We are so grateful for everyone that took the time to help make our details so meaningful for our wedding!

What you’re doing now

We are living and working in Nashville, and are expecting our first little blessing in March 2023.

Ceremony date

May 14th, 2022

Venue

Paris Yates Chapel

Reception Venue

The Lyric

Wedding planner

Ellen Thomas Event Design

Photographer

Brian Flint who is AMAZING. There was not a field for me to put his name but I want to make sure that yall know it was him!

Wedding planner

Ellen Thomas Event Design

Caterer

Elizabeth Heiskell ----- and Bride’s cake was Flour Garden but there was not an option to write it in. Invitations were designed by me in partnership with Kate Wiseman Creative.

Wedding dress

Wedding Atelier

Bridesmaids dresses

Birdy Grey

Hair and Makeup

The Studio - love them!

Groom and Groomsmen attire

Thomas Brothers Oxford

Music

DMP Band – Memphis

Bar

The Lyric

& Christopher Scott Miller Alexandra

How did you two meet

We were both theatre majors at Ole Miss!

Tell us about the proposal

Christopher proposed to me at my favorite place in the world: my family’s hunting camp in Belzoni, MS. It has a lot of special meaning to the both of us. It was an romantic set up with flowers and candles (and private, aside from our few closest friends hiding inside who had helped set up), and then we went from there to Jackson where we were welcomed by friends and family to celebrate!

Describe your wedding dress

It was a Monique Lhuillier, straight neck strapless dress, very fitted at the top with a long ball gown skirt that had a thigh a slit. To me, it was the perfect *marriage* between a traditional and modern look.

Favorite moment from your big day

It had to be walking down the aisle. I just remember being absolutely overwhelmed with love, joy, excitement, and any other positive emotion you can think of. It was also was hitting me that everything I had been dreaming of for the past two years (we had a

year-long COVID delay!) was finally actually happening.

Favorite wedding details

THE FLORALS. They still stun me when I look back at photos. That, and the Groomscake of our dog, Remus, was just unbelievable!

What are you doing now

We are both working for Senator Hyde-Smith in Washington, D.C..

Ceremony date 12/04/21

Venue

The Jefferson Reception

Crisler Boone

Wedding planner

Crisler Boone

Florist

The Garden District, Memphis TN

Caterer

Elizabeth Haskell

Wedding dress

Monique Lhuillier

Bridesmaid dresses

Bella Bridesmaids

Hair and makeup

Tracy Branch Agency

Groom and groomsman attire

The Black Tux

Music

Memphis Soul Revue

& Frank Pace Susie

How did you two meet? Through a mutual friend

Tell us about the proposal

It was Christmas morning at the bride’s parents’ house after opening gifts.

Describe your Wedding Dress Cap sleeve satin dress with a lace back

Favorite Wedding Details Including our dog, Maggie! What you’re doing now Living in NYC. Susie is getting her PhD and Frank works at the VA Ceremony date 6/11/22

Venue

Paris-Yates Chapel

Reception Venue

Isom House

Wedding planner

Anna Purvis

Florist

Oxford Floral

Caterer

Tallahatchie Gourmet

Wedding dress

Romona Keveza

Hair and Makeup

Blow-dry Bar

Groom and Groomsmen attire

Tom Ford (rehearsal) and Zegna (wedding day)

Music

Alphonso Sanders

MarnezeEmily&Davis

How did you two meet? Through mutual friends.

Tell us about the proposal

We returned to the location of our first date, which is a frequent date spot for us. To my surprise, Marneze had invited our immediate family and the evening began with him proposing!

Favorite Moment from your Big Day

The entire day was amazing, but the favorite moment was being announced as husband and wife.

Favorite Wedding Details

The officiant read a scripture from the Bible of the bride’s late father; lots of dancing at the reception

What you’re doing now Emily works as an educator and Marneze works for the Department of Defense. We reside in Olive Branch, MS.

Ceremony date

August 27, 2022

Venue

The Jefferson Reception Venue

The Jefferson Wedding planner

Kisha Bishop-Landfair

Photographer

Camille Leigh Photography

Florist

Olive Branch Florist

Caterer

My Michelle’s Caterer

Old Town Bakery (Olive Branch) and Frost Bake Shop (Memphis)

Wedding dress

David’s Bridal

Bridesmaids dresses

David’s Bridal

Hair and Makeup

Hair: The Beauty Lounge

Tupelo; Makeup: Dabb of Beauty

Groom and Groomsmen

attire

Men’s Warehouse

Music

DJ Zwan Bar

The Jefferson

& Callie McCarthy Quinn

How did you two meet?

Quinn and I first met while we were both attending Ole Miss. Quinn is two years older than me and was good friends with my sister (Virginia) and now brother-in-law (Fletcher) in college. Fast forward a couple years, Quinn and I reconnected at Virginia and Fletcher’s wedding in December of 2018. At the time Quinn was in Chicago, and I was in Nashville. A work trip brought Quinn to Nashville that next summer and we were able to go on our first date! We never looked back after that!

Tell us about the proposal Quinn proposed on March 18, 2022 in Nashville, where we were both living at the time. It was a beautiful Spring evening, and we were sitting on the back porch of his house when he popped the question. After calling all our friends and family, we went to dinner that night to celebrate. We loved that time together - just the two of us. We could really enjoy the moment and take it all in.

Describe your Wedding Dress

Originally designed in 1924 for my great-grandmother’s wedding, the gown was redesigned and worn by my grandmother, mother, sister, aunts, and cousin before its most recent revision. The very talented Chris Hudson from Chris Hudson Couture in Madison, Georgia redesigned the dress for my wedding and made it perfectly me. It was so

special to wear a dress that these wonderful women in my family - whom I all look up to - also wore.

Favorite Moment from your Big Day

Picking a favorite moment from my most favorite day is almost impossible! I’m still in awe at how everything came together so beautifully. Special shoutout to Ellen Thomas Event Design, Oxford Floral, Tallahatchie Gourmet, The Lyric, and Details!

I think Quinn and I would both agree that other than the actual ceremony, one of our favorite moments was the

time we had together in between the ceremony and the reception. In addition to The Lyric, we rented out Bar Muse. Quinn and I were able to sneak in there after the ceremony to have a bite to eat and enjoy some downtime before the excitement of the reception.

Unbeknownst to Quinn, we had turned Bar Muse into an “Irish pub” which we named McCarthy’s Pub. It was so fun to see his reaction to the pub and all the details of it –including his family crest that hung on the door and the specialty cocktail my dad creatively termed “The Mighty Quinn.”

What you’re doing now

Quinn and I are currently living in Chicago. We are loving our time as a young, married couple in such a fun city!

Ceremony date

11/26/2022

Venue

St. Peter’s Episcopal Church

Reception Venue

The Lyric

Wedding planner

Ellen Thomas Event Design

Florist

Oxford Floral

Caterer

Tallahatchie Gourmet

Bride’s cake

Lillian Carson’s Cheese Straws

Wedding dress

Chris Hudson Couture in Madison, Georgia

Wedding dress

Chris Hudson Couture in Madison, Georgia

Bridesmaids dresses

My bridesmaids wore different styles of a navy, floor-length dress

Hair and Makeup

J. Lauren & Co (Jessica Mathias)

Groom and Groomsmen attire

Quinn’s tux was customtailored for the wedding at Daniel George in Chicago. His groomsmen wore tuxes from Black Tux.

Music

Creativity Band

CarolineWalker&Abel

How did you two meet?

We actually met at a friend’s birthday party our freshman year of high school. I (Caroline) had just moved to Oxford from Florida in June of 2011, and school had just started so I did not know a lot of people. I had heard of Walker before the party, and when I saw he was there I truly just walked right up and asked “Are you Walker Abel?” He said, “I am!” To which I responded with, “Well I’m Caroline Powell” and we did not speak another word that night! We got to know each other by attending high school football games, and started dating on October 1st, 2011. We have been in each other’s lives for the last 12 years. Not always as a couple, however the time together vastly outweighs the time apart.

Tell us about the proposal

The night Walker first asked me to be his girlfriend, we were crossing the street on the square that connects Neilson’s to Hinton & Hinton. So when it became time to propose, he brought me back to the same spot. Well, almost the same spot! His original plan was to stop in the middle of the crosswalk and get down on one knee, however it was raining pretty hard so he opted to do it on the corner of Neilson’s. I had a feeling it was coming as we had talked a lot about it, but it never truly hit me until he got down on one knee. We then went back to my parent’s house to celebrate with both of our families!

Describe your Wedding Dress

I was 100% the girl who had always dreamed about her wedding, let alone her wedding dress. For years I would look at wedding dresses for fun just to see what was out there. I’m pretty sure I had been following wedding dress designers on instagram at least 1 year before we even got engaged. One of the designers I had followed was Allison Webb. I had seen her post the dress in April of 2021 as part of her fall collection and immediately fell in love with it. It was actually the first dress I tried on! It is a strapless,eggshell matte twill fit to flare gown with delicate beaded embroidery, cuff neckline, and a removeable embroidered bow. I absolutely fell in love with it! It was classic as well as chic, and made me feel incredible.

Favorite Moment from your Big Day

My favorite moment was at the beginning of the ceremony. We didn’t do a first look, so we were dying to see each other by the time the wedding started. I was waiting in the back of the church, and started peeking out the window to watch before it was time for me to walk. The moment I saw Walker enter from the side door by the alter is when I started crying. He looked so cute and it truly hit me that I was about to marry my best friend.

Favorite Wedding Details

Some of my favorite details: Oxford Floral was able to incorporate the fabric roses from my mom’s veil into my bouquet which served as my something old. Everything Oxford Floral made was absolutely breathtaking. We both worked there for many years and that store and the people who work there hold such a special place in our hearts! I also loved that instead of a guest book, we had a vintage phone that allowed our guests to leave us voicemails. We were also able to use the silver chalices that my parents and my grandparents used at their weddings. Last thing, this isn’t really a “detail” but it actually was so special that Ole Miss won the College World Series the weekend of our wedding. We were worried about it going into the wedding weekend, however it ended up making our whole night because once the Rebels won Walker got on stage and led all of our

guests in the Hotty Toddy chant! What you’re doing now

We live in Atlanta and are absolutely loving it! Walker works as an IT Analyst for Meridian Cooperative, and Caroline works as a Tax Consultant for Deloitte. We have made some wonderful friends here and plan to stay for awhile. However it is hard to keep us from Oxford, especially since both of our parents live there!

Ceremony date

June 25, 2022

Venue

Oxford University United Methodist Church

Reception Venue

The Lyric

Florist

Oxford Floral Co.

Caterer

A&N Catering

Caterer

Bride’s Cake: Alice Chow

Wedding dress

Allison Webb

Bridesmaid dresses

Bella Bridesmaids

Hair and Makeup

Kristin Legge

Groom and Groomsmen attire

Thomas Brothers Formal Wear

Music

Kidd Blue from Auburn, AL

Bar

The Lyric

& Wade Holland Dana

How did you two meet?

Walker and I had known each other for a long time through growing up in the same town. Back when I started college at Delta State in 2014, he tried to talk to me, but I wouldn’t give him the time of day because I was a freshman and wanted to be single. LOL. Fast forward 2 years, we start talking again. I was working at the local bank here in town as a teller during the holidays and my summer break at DSU. He would come in every Friday a little bit before 5 to put his check in his bank account. We would text message everyday, but he would never come to my window at the bank. One day, he asked me on a date and I told him If you can come and see me at the bank Friday, we will go on a date. Needless to say, we started dating shortly after. Walker and I dated throughout me finishing my time at Delta State and then going onto UMMC for 3 years to obtain my MOT.

Tell us about the proposal

After a day of going to the Memphis Zoo and eating at my favorite restaurant, Walker asked me to marry him on the evening of August 14th, 2021 after 5 years and 1 month of dating.

Describe your Wedding Dress

The bride wore a glamorous mermaid wedding keyhole gown from Amelia Grace Bridal in Greenwood, MS. The dress consisted of a combination of glitter tulle and heavy silver beading. The

gown had touches of modern sheerness at the tops and sides of the dress for a subtle look.

Favorite Moment from your Big Day

Reading our letters we wrote to each other and saying “ I DO”

Favorite Wedding Details

-The brides cake with cascading fall colored roses from Oxford Floral Company (the most beautiful flower arrangements along with pumpkins filled with flowers for aisle runners) -boxwood wall rented by Event Rentals of Ponotoc with our custom made light up sign that read “The Hollands” by Jimmy Dale, the photo charms that hung on my bouquet of my passed grandparents whom I loved dearly who could not be there for wedding, a custom made handkerchief my mom gave me to wrap around my bouquet

What you’re doing now

The couple resides in Batesville, MS where Dana is an occupational therapist at Baptist Memorial Hospital of North Mississippi and Walker is an equipment operator for DWB, LLC.

Ceremony date

Saturday October 29, 2022

Venue*

Chickasaw Hills Cabins and Lodge

Reception Venue

Chickasaw Hills Cabins and Lodge

Wedding planner

Wedding coordinator was April Tindall. My mom and I did the wedding planning.

Photographer

J. CROWE Photography was Photographer. Southern Vow Videos was the Videographer.

Florist

Oxford Floral Company

Caterer

One Twenty Ate Catering

Bride’s cakeDecorators Delight, Patricia Farrish . She also did the grooms cake.

Caterer

One Twenty Ate Catering

Invitations

Zazzle for save the date and invitations. Addressing of this invitations in calligraphy handwriting was Kaliography

Wedding dress

Amelia Grace Bridal in Greenwood, MS

Bridesmaids dresses

Azazie

Hair and Makeup

Bridal Hair- Taylor Horne

Bridesmaids Hair- Tosha

Boucher and Hannah Hood

Glam Makeup for bride and bridesmaids - Hotty Toddy

Tans

Groom and Groomsmen attire

Thomas Brothers Formal Wear

Music

DJ Marky Mark

Transportation

Bride and groom rode away in an antique Ford T model Bar

Alcohol was purchased from The Chuck Stop in Pope, MS. Andrea Rose and Ashley Jenkins were fabulous bartenders.

Clayton&Durfey Sydney

How did you meet?

Clayton and I were set up by his sister-in-law in the fall of 2018 on Ole Miss’s Homecoming weekend. A few weeks later, I gathered up the courage to ask him to be my date to a wedding. He said “yes,” and the rest is history!

Tell us about the proposal

Clayton and I both moved to DC after graduate school & nursing school. One Tuesday night, Clayton told me he wanted to take me out to dinner at the nicest restaurant in his neighborhood. I was suspicious that it might happen that night, but I convinced myself that there was no way it would actually happen. As we left his house to walk to dinner, he stopped me on the sidewalk and asked me to marry him. Once I said “yes,” I turned around and all of our closest friends were walking down the block cheering. It was such a special day!

Describe your wedding dress

I would describe my wedding dress as elegant and timeless. I knew I wanted something clean and simple, but also I wanted it to have something special. I found that in my Allure wedding gown which had a detachable train that I took off for the reception. I absolutely love my wedding gown!

Favorite moment from your big day

My favorite moment from our wedding day was when Clayton and I went to stand on the side of the stage at the reception and watched all of our family & friends dancing together. It was such a special moment to see everyone we love all gathered in one place. You could feel the joy and happiness in that moment, and it’s a memory I’ll cherish forever.

Favorite wedding details

There were so many things I loved about our wedding, and I wouldn’t have changed a thing! However, I think my very favorite detail is probably the white tulips that were carried by my bridesmaids and in my bouquet. My mother had her bridesmaids carry bouquets of tulips at my parents’ wedding, and I loved

replicating that at our wedding. Now, I think of our perfect wedding day each time I see a white tulip.

What you are doing now

Now, Clayton & I are living in Washington DC. I am a speech-language pathologist, and Clayton is an ICU nurse. We are loving spending time in this city and experiencing all it has to offer.

Ceremony date

3/26/22

Venue

Oxford-University United Methodist Church

Reception

The Powerhouse

Wedding Planner

Ellen Thomas Event and Design

Photographer

Taylor Square Photography

Florist

Oxford Floral

Caterer

Tallahatchie Gourmet

Wedding cake

Bremma’s Sweet Treats

Wedding Dress

Engagment’s Bridal

Music

The Anwer Band

& Ryan Rodgers Katie

How did you two meet?

We met while growing up in Tupelo, MS! We started dating our sophomore year of high school and have been together ever since!

Tell us about the proposal Ryan pulled off the best surprise on a Sunday afternoon in July! He proposed in the Grove on the Ole Miss Campus where we shared many memories throughout our relationship.

Describe your Wedding Dress

My wedding dress was exactly what I envisioned myself in. It was simple and classic, and the bow on the back with buttons all the way down added a sweet detail!

Favorite Moment from your Big Day

It is so difficult to choose one single moment from our wedding day because it was such a special time shared with all of our favorite people. However, one moment that stands out is our first look! The weekend can be so busy enjoying time with friends and family, so it was nice to have a special moment with just the two of us!

Favorite Wedding Details

One of our favorite details were our flowers! They truly brought the entire design together and created a beautiful, classic look for the ceremony and reception. All of the details made our wedding day complete, and we could not have been more happy with how everything turned out!

What you’re doing now

We are now living in Memphis, TN. I am in my first year of dental school at the University of Tennessee, and Ryan is working as an audit associate for KPMG.

Ceremony date

July 2nd, 2022

Venue*

Oxford United University Methodist Church

Reception Venue

The Country Club of Oxford

Wedding planner

Ellen Thomas [Ellen Thomas Event Design]

Photographer Photographer: Taylor

Square Photography /

Videographer: Lynn Productions

Florist

Oxford Floral

Caterer

Bride’s cakeFlour Garden

Invitations

Flourish Paper

Wedding dress Maggie Louise

Bridesmaids dresses

Bella Bridesmaids

Hair and Makeup

Hair: La Rousse / Makeup: Mary Shields Hunter

Groom and Groomsmen attire

Thomas Brothers Formal Wear

Music Soulsations

& Mark McManus Jordan

How did you two meet? We met at what used to be Uptown Coffee in Oxford when we were both students at Oxford High School.

Tell us about the proposal Mark proposed to me at one of our favorite spots in Auburn, AL where we like to fish and play cards together. It was a beautiful May evening right at sunset on the dock looking over the lake.

Describe your Wedding Dress

My wedding dress was everything I always knew I would want. Laced long sleeves with lace and gorgeous detail all around the dress.

Favorite Moment from your Big Day

Doing a surprise hip hop dance for Mark with some of my bridesmaids. This was a dream of mine to do and it was so much fun and memorable!

Favorite Wedding Details

My favorite wedding details were my flowers and my food. With GRIT in Taylor, MS I got to create a custom menu that featured Oxford’s top hits like Volta’s hotty toddy balls and chicken on a stick!

What you’re doing now We are both living in

Auburn, AL where Mark is finishing up school and Jordan is a personal assistant!

Ceremony date

January 2, 2022

Venue

Plein Air Chapel

Reception Venue

The Mill at Plein Air

Wedding planner

Jordan McManus

Photographer

Robby Followell at Followell Fotography

Florist

Fresh Cuts of Jackson

Caterer

GRIT

Bride’s cake

R&R Cookies

Caterer

Invitations

Jordan McManus made them herself

Wedding dress

Lows Bridal

Bridesmaids dresses

Azazie

Hair and Makeup

Hair- Blo Dry bar in Oxford make up- April

Renee out of Jackson

Groom and Groomsmen attire

Generation tux

Music

DeepBlu entertainment

3 BLIND WINERED WINE EDITION

1. Wayne Andrews and Jennifer Mizenko

2. Shellie Carr anmd Meredith Grantham

3. Regina and Keith Black

4. Kate Victor and Kim Patterson

5. Annette Kluck and Jamison Gilbert

6. Liming and Jim Cizdziel

7. Glenda Landrum and Jennifer McClure

8. Kate Kellum and Kayla Crook

9. Fran Kirdy, Kayla Kirkpatrick, Julie Payne, Michael Fisher, Brandon Faust and Cabe Kirkpatrick

Southside Art Gallery Oxford, MS

November 15, 2022

All Photos © Joey Brent

COFIELD EVENT

Dec

1. Rhea and Robyn Tannehill and Clifton Clements Odom

2. Clifton Clements Odom, Amelia Ott and Jonathan Mims

3. Miss Rita Allison and Friends

4. Allyson Duckworth, Amy Bennett and Amelia Ott

5. Amelia Ott, Rhandi Smith, Chris Wagner, Summer McPheron, Allyson Duckworth, Amy Bennett, Jake Ott

6. Amelia Ott, Jake Ott, John Cofield

7. Clifton Clements Odom, Gaye Flynt

8. Clifton Clements Odom and Susan Clements Chick

9. 9 John Cofield signing books

John Cofield Book Signing The Chancellor’s House by Oliver

Sponsored by Clements Howard Estate Sales and The Oxford Eagle

Photos by Mackinzie Malo

4, 2022

1. Eric Tast and Meghan Anderson

2. Mary Margaret and Wayne Andrews

3. Gay and Steven Case

4. Chris and Mary Provence

5. Mary Ann Flaherty and John Allouise

6. Meredith Grantham and Mindy Waldrop

7. Preston Turner and Lee Ellen Haskins

8. Andy and Lee Harper

9. Robert Saarnio a nd Andi Bedsworth

CHRISTMAS ORNAMENT AUCTION The Powerhouse

December 10, 2022

Photos © Joey Brent

SURF’S UP ON THE AIR WAVES

TThe calendar now reads 2023 which has more of a space age sound to it than 2022. We are all George Jetson with flying cars on the horizon.

As we enter this brave new whirl, some of us techchallenged fogies will find ourselves falling even further into befuddlement. For myself, even in glossy, fancy 2023, my vocations remain, writing for print and talking on the radio. That’s like being a polar bear on a melting glacier. Headed to extinction before distinction, It doesn’t get more old school.

COUNTRIBUTING EDITOR JIM DEES

is a writer and longtime host of Thacker Mountain Radio. He is the author of The Statue and the Fury - A Year of Art, Race, Music and Cocktails.

Radio is now referred to as “terrestrial radio,” tethered to earth. One thinks of the small-town stations of yesteryear, including in Oxford; small huts situated on the outskirts of town. Next door or behind the hut would stand a tall antenna capable of throwing the signal to the two neighboring counties… maybe.

Back in the Golden Age of FM radio, DJs would play an entire album side without interruption. These 20 minutes afforded an opportunity for these working stiffs to step outside and take a swig or a smoke, action known in industry parlance as, “Checking the tower.”

On my old AM radio I had a pencil mark on the tuning knob so I could more easily dial in WLS Chicago. The Beatles debuted their classic “Hey Jude” in August 1968 at 6 pm, and the station preceded that monumental event with week-long teases.

When the day and hour finally arrived, I was dutifully posted up at that cheap little green radio. At the stroke of six, my father appeared at my bedroom door, barking orders: “Supper’s ready, turn off that radio; Let’s go, Go!”

There was no arguing or protesting with the old fighter pilot. I missed the debut of “Hey Jude.”

Sometime later, I was at home, again, listening to the radio, this time to our local church service (I must have been sick to be at home). Suddenly, in the middle of the preacher’s message erupted the unmistakable windstorm of my father’s sneeze.

After an interval, a second sneeze. Interval. A third sneeze.

I began visualizing the slideshow of Exorcist faces he makes between sneezes: head bobbing, eyes fluttering, mouth agape. That nether land of uncertainty; not wanting to, yet having to, sneeze. He goes through all the seven faces of the Seven Dwarfs before the sneeze finally, mercifully, comes.

“Ah – Chooh!”

I clocked him at fourteen in a row. The sneezes lasted longer than the sermon.

Indeed, he took a sad sneeze and made it better.

As a high schooler, my buds and I rode the Delta back roads on Friday nights, listening to the allnight Road Gang truck driver show from WWL New Orleans. Red Sovine, Dave Dudley, Phantom 309. It was a gateway listen to more esoterica.

As a semi-adult, working at the much-lamented Hoka, Oxford’s former bohemian cultural center, we were always looking for new music to play over our stereo system in the dining room. WEVL 89.9 FM out of Memphis proved an eclectic resource and I still have stacks of cassettes I made of their programing. (Yes, a lowly pirate).

I would tune in and record a big dose of Hawaiian, reggae, blues, country, R&B, soul, gospel and even a rousing polka – all in one show - if the show was Jim Spake’s “House Party” on Thursdays.

I remember a dinner party with my girlfriend’s parents where I excused myself in order to step outside and flip over a tape during a two-hour Ry Cooder special on WEVL When I realized the radio reception wasn’t great, I climbed out on their roof and set up the machine to get better results.

I’m sure her parents thought, “Yeah, this guy’s a keeper.”

During the late 1980s living with Ronzo of the Hoka and Willie Wallace of Local Color, we often moved furniture out into the yard for maximum seasonal enjoyment.

I was employing this very tactic on March 26 1987, listening to the Ole Miss Rebel baseball game. David Kellum interrupted his game call to announce a tragedy involving a Chi Omega sorority charity walk.

Later the news would emerge that five young ladies were killed. I can still remember the front yard, the warm sky, the radio and that feeling.

No matter the advances in technology and the Spacely Sprockets of the George Jetson universe, sounds simply coming out of a box will always be with us. Somebody, somewhere will transmit music or speak into a microphone and those sounds will carry across the airwaves to be received by an audience and it will mean something to somebody, somewhere.

Even fourteen consecutive sneezes.

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Oxford Housing Authority The Oxford Housing Authority is currently accepting resumes for the following position: Occupancy Specialist Information regarding job description, salary and benets can be

picked up at the ofces of the Oxford Housing Authority, 900 Molly Barr Road Oxford, MS. Applications or resumes will be accepted at this address as well or can be mailed to P.O. Box 488 Oxford, MS 38655 until 5:00 P.M. Friday, December 9, 2022.

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