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FOOTBALL, FALL AND SQUARE LIVING

REVOLUTION THROUGH ART OXFORD BLUES FESTIVAL

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R.

HERNANDO . OXFORD . TUPELO . RIDGELAND Your Premier Lighting Store and So Much More...

W W W. M A G N O L I A L I G H T I N G . C O M

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FEATURES 38 TOP 20 UNDER 40

home & style 23 FOOTBALL, FALL

AND SQUARE LIVING

32

HINTON & HINTON AN OXFORD STYLE STAPLE

arts & culture 10 REVOLUTION THROUGH ART

15

BLUESTIME AGAIN IN OXFORD

49

19

SANCTUARY ARTISTS: SUSAN MAH AND CHESLEY PEARMAN

food & drink 28 QUACK’S

64

FALL RECIPES

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in every issue 4 Contributors

5 Letter from the Publisher 8 Events

27 Book Picks

72 Style Guide

69 Marketplace

67 Said and Done OxfordMag.com 3

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contributors

Allyson Duckworth, Contributor

Allyson Duckworth is a graduate of the University of Mississippi and a life long resident of Mississippi. She owns interior design firm Pearly Peacock Design in Oxford. She draws inspiration for design from her world travels.

EDITORIAL

Jimmy Durham

CONTRIBUTORS

Julie Mabus, Contributor

DESIGN

Angela Cutrer, Contributor

Davis Coen Angela Cutrer Joey Brent Jim Dees Allyson Duckworth Bruce Newman Julie Hines Mabus Elizabeth Tettleton Mason Lyn Roberts

Allison Dale

EDITOR

Amelia Ott

A native of Jackson Mississippi and graduate of Ole Miss, Julie went on to earn a Master’s Degree in Finance from Columbia University. During her marriage to Governor Ray Mabus, Julie served as First Lady of Mississippi from1988-1992 then accompanied him to Saudi Arabia during his tenure as U.S. Ambassador. She now resides in Oxford, is the mother of two beautiful daughters. She recently released her first book “Confessions of a Southern Beauty Queen” to universal accliam.

Angela H. Cutrer is a Louisiana-born, Mississippi-raised freelance writer based in Jayess. She’s a graduate of Southwest Mississippi Community College and the University of Southern Mississippi, where she earned a master’s degree in communication. She has two daughters, seven grandchildren, a dog and too many cats.

MARKETING

Clifton Clements Odom Mike Haskins

ADMINISTRATION

Rebecca Alexander, Publisher Emily Presley, Audience Development

Davis Coen, Writer

Davis Coen is a freelance writer and newspaper reporter from Oxford by way of South Carolina. He’s had stories published in various local publications including Oxford Eagle, Oxford Citizen and Daily Journal. He also maintains a music career with over a dozen tours of Europe and regular airplay on SiriusXM Satellite Radio.

Elizabeth Tettleton Mason

Elizabeth Tettleton Mason has lived in Oxford, MS since 2006 and works at the University of Mississippi as Assistant to the Vice Chancellor for Research and Sponsored Programs. She enjoys traveling with her husband (Scott Mason) whenever possible, meeting folks passionate about the culinary world, and giving back to the LOU community. When not at work or play, you’ll find Elizabeth writing, baking, or snuggling with her two cats: Figaro (a black and white tuxedo little lady) and Rory (an orange tuxedo tabby distinguished gentleman).

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from the editor

ON THE COVER NEW RESTAURANT QUACK’S ON THE SQUARE - FALL RECIPES

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FOOTBALL, FALL AND SQUARE LIVING

REVOLUTION THROUGH ART OXFORD BLUES FESTIVAL

Mark Shoemake Store Manager/Custom Clothing, HInton and Hinton Photo by Bruce Newman Design by Allison Dale

Hello, Oxford! I am Amelia Ott, your new editor for Oxford Magazine.

Our mission is to be the must-read companion to the South’s most interesting city-Oxford, Mississippi. This magazine tells stories of Oxford’s people, life and culture through stunning photography, eloquent design and compelling writing featuring many of the city’s most noted voices.

I’ve been fortunate enough to call Oxford home for nearly a decade. The delightful residents, exceptional education systems and abundance of quaint small businesses, literature, art & music make it one of the most charming small towns in the country. I am a lover of media and will work to bring these alluring small-town characteristics to life in the pages of this magazine.

My husband, Jake, daughter, Ana (16 years) and I enjoy entertaining family and friends, Ole Miss sports, cooking (I mostly keep them company, well, sometimes I stir), playing cards and making each other laugh. In my downtime, I study home design and fashion, care for my garden & house plants, shop for gifts and indulge in all things cozy.

Now to the good stuff! For more than 30 years, Hinton & Hinton has been filled from floor to ceiling with exceptional men’s clothing, making it an Oxford staple. Men from all over the south have H&H garments hanging in their closets, so we called up the staff and asked them what their secrets for success have been all of these years. You will be interested to hear their answers.

Next, Julie Hines Mabus starts us off by taking us on a journey to the lovely Water Valley home of Adrienne Brown-David. There we’ll discover the paths that lead her to be the impressive artist she is today, all while caring for her precious family of six.

Then, Davis Coen amps us up for the 12th Annual Oxford Blue’s Fest.

Darryl Parker, the event’s organizer, has orchestrated artists from all over the state of Mississippi to play for us on an autumnal evening. We highly recommend marking your calendars for October 12th-14th.

Lastly, you voted and the results are in! Oxford is full of driven, active young professionals and we are thrilled to reveal Oxford’s 2023 Top 20 Under 40. Please join us in celebrating these young stars if you see them out and about!

We love feedback/suggestions from our readers! Can you think of someone/something that deserves recognition? Please contact me at amelia.ott@oxfordeagle.com.

Did you know that Oxford Magazine can be delivered directly to your mailbox? To subscribe call Emily Presley at 662-234-2222 January/February - Bridal Issue March/April - Real Estate/The Women of Oxford May/June - Foodie Issue July/August - Best of Oxford September/October – Fall Fashion/Top 20 Under 40 November/December – Holiday/Guide to Giving Amelia Ott amelia.ott@oxfordeagle.com

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WHAT TO DO IN OXFORD OCT 1 Annubis Improve presents Half and Half Powerhouse, 7:30 p.m.

OCT 5 Moon Taxi The Lyric Oxford 8:00 p.m.

OCT12 An Evening with Dennis Prager The Jefferson Oxford 7:30 PM OCT 16 Chris Renzema The Lyric Oxford 8:00 p.m.

OCT 18 Drew Holcomb and the Neighbors The Lyric Oxford, 8:00 p.m.

OCT 20 Monster’s Ball Benefiting LeBonheur The Country Club of Oxford, 7:00 p.m.

OCT 14

Revisiting Creedance Gertrude Ford Performing Arts Center, 7:30 p.m.

They toured the world with original Creedence Clearwater Revival members & Rock and Roll Hall of Famers, now they’re continuing the CCR legacy live in concert.

Revisiting Creedence’s front men Dan McGuinness and Kurt Griffey, lead vocal and lead guitar respectively, performed over the past decade with rock royalty, fronting Creedence Clearwater Revival founding members Stu Cook and Doug “Cosmo” Clifford’s touring project, Creedence Clearwater Revisited.

OCT 21 One Night Stand Ole Miss Motel 1517 University Ave, 6:00 p.m.

- 9:00 p.m.

OCT 21 2nd Annual BOO & BARRELS Lafayette County Multi Purpose Arena, 10:00 a.m. - 11:59 p.m.

OCT 27 Ernest: This Fire Tour LIVE The Lyric, 8 p.m.

OCT 28 Boy Named Banjo with Brother Elsey Proud Larry’s. 8:00 p.m.

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OCT 29

Carmina Burana

University Choir, Dr. Donald Trott, director

2;30 p.m.

composer based his work on 24 poems

The Memphis Symphony Orchestra,

Beuern. This work is a perennial favorite

Gertrude Ford Performing Arts Center,

Robert Moody, conductor, the Memphis Symphony Chorus, Dr. Lawrence Edwards,

ollaborate a presentation of Carmina Burana, a cantata written by Carl Orff. The from the medieval collection Songs of with modern audiences with its

spectacular evocation of how fate and conductor and the University of Mississippi fortune impacts lives.

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ARTS

& CULTURE

REVOLUTION

THROUGH ART

BY JULIE HINES MABUS PHOTOS BY BRUCE NEWMAN

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“I

"I have lived my life in revolution--not through protest or upheaval but through stillness and calm. There is enough struggle for us. I focus on freedom, rest, quiet, and embracing and projecting beauty--all through my art."

Those are the words of artist Adrienne Brown-David, an extraordinary woman who works through her oils to empower the lives of black women, one canvas at a time.

I entered Adrienne's lovely home in Water Valley several weeks ago. Her dog greeted me and followed us into the living room where a cat lazed on a cushion, enjoying the morning sun. Adrienne's easel sat beside the sofa, where we would talk for the next two hours. An unfinished painting of a beautiful young girl with mahogany skin and closely shorn hair stood upright on the easel. I wanted to lift her off the canvas, take her hand, and dance with her in the sunlight like I once did with my own girls.

"She's stunning."

"Thank you, that's my daughter, Zion. It's for the Harvest Supper this October." The Harvest Supper is the Friends of the Museum's annual fundraiser, set on the grounds of Rowan Oak. Curated artists contribute a generous portion of the proceeds when their art is auctioned at the event.

"Much of my work is of my daughters. Since they were little girls, I have photographed them thousands of times.

It's about their growing up years."

Adrienne has a studio behind her house and uses it for large pieces. "But I mostly work right here. Sometimes I feel isolated in my studio. This way, I do what I love near the people I love. My family is everything to me."

Adrienne's is a story of a young girl up in a downtown neighborhood of St. Louis, Missouri. She started kindergarten at a Catholic school in her community. "But OxfordMag.com 11

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I couldn't stand to wear the uniform.

The following year, my mother gave me the option of riding the bus to a school in the suburbs, and I took it. I was a good student. Throughout high school, I was in the gifted program. I've always been different, but I'm okay with that."

From an early age, Adrienne's artistic talents were supported by her family. Her grandmother, who lived right down the street, saved paper bags for art paper. And her mother volunteered at a gallery in St. Louis, where Adrienne took art lessons. Further, she was exposed to the triumphs and accomplishments of nationally known exhibiting photographers and painters such as Gordon Parks and Jacob Lawrence.

After high school, Adrienne was admitted to the Art Institute of Chicago.

"I spent a year there, but I'm basically self-taught."

In 2000, when Adrienne was twenty-one, she left Missouri and, on the encouragement of a friend, moved to St. Croix in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Perhaps the choice of St. Croix was serendipitous, but the decision changed the course of Adrienne's life.

She met and married Taariq David from Washington, D.C., who was living on the island and working in the restaurant business.

When Adrienne moved to St. Croix, she was surrounded by the primary colors of one of the most beautiful islands in the Caribbean, which would prove to be great fodder for her art. But life crept in, and she had to get a job.

"Tourists were everywhere, and my first job was making them coffee; I was a barista. To tell you the truth, I didn't care how much mocha or what kind of milk people wanted in their coffee. It just didn't seem important. I wanted to paint."

Later, Adrienne worked part-time as a nanny, then in a frame shop, and later as a hotel manager. All the while, she painted, exhibited, and sold her work to the people of St. Croix.

Adrienne eventually met Taariq at one of the local restaurants. "When the

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global economy started to tank in 2007, we had three girls and another baby on the way. Tourism had practically dried up on the island, and inflation was rampant. We agreed, it was time for us to move."

"How in the world did you pick Oxford, Mississippi? That seems like a far stretch from the Caribbean."

"I wanted my girls to be in a community smaller and slower than St. Louis." The island was all her children had known since they were babies. She had a cousin living in Oxford who encouraged her to come. Eventually, they packed up and headed to Mississippi by way of St. Louis to visit family.

"I started working at the Montessori School when we got to Oxford."

Taariq approached Andy Douglas, who owned Andy's Steakhouse right off the Square. Andy immediately gave him a job.

Recently, I found Andy working at Sola on South Lamar. "Oh, yeah, Taariq is great." I hired him on the spot. The

recession hit hard in 2008, and I had to close the restaurant, but he was remarkable."

The family of six--the fourth girl was born after they left St. Croix--began putting down roots in Oxford. After Adrienne's work at the school, Taariq's work with John Currence, and, most recently, at Bar Muse, she could finally spend most of her time with her art.

"People in town began to recognize my paintings. For a few years, I showed at the Ole Miss Motel."

I was confused. "You mean that old motel on University Avenue, the one that was here when I was in school in the seventies?"

"Yep. They do a show every year, and each artist exhibits in one of the hotel rooms."

In 2007 Erin Austen Abbot, Oxford native and professional photographer, started the annual exhibition called "One Night Stand at the Ole Miss Motel--what irony. Perfect. The Yocnapatawpha Arts Council now helps in sponsoring the event.

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It's a great concept for emerging artists and their efforts to get before the public. "But, along the way, my work outpriced the event."

"That is an excellent problem to have. And Water Valley, what precipitated your move?"

"By 2015, we had outgrown our house in Oxford. The girls were older; they needed more room. It was time for a larger space. Water Valley had become an artist community, and the housing prices were more affordable. Taariq dug his heels in at first. He didn't want to leave Oxford.

But a Water Valley friend encouraged us to look at a house, and the neighborhood folks wanted us to move in. We've been here eight years.

The community has art crawls, Bozarts Gallery, so many things for artists.

Adrienne has home-schooled all her children until they went to high school." We did bookwork four days a week, following a required curriculum, and then on Fridays, we joined with other families and spent the day in the forest around Water Valley. We called it 'Forest School.' There were usually about twenty kids. With each change of season, we would move to a different space. There was very little parental intervention. I kept a nature journal with observations and images.

I didn't paint while we were outside. I just absorbed the beauty of life, of nature."

"I told you I was self-taught. One good thing the Covid pandemic did for me was to fine-tune my portraiture skills." Adrienne set up a challenge for herself on Instagram. It started on January 1, 2021. She committed to painting a 5 "x 7" portrait or figure daily for the next year and selling it on social media.

"The first two paintings took a few minutes to sell, but by the third day, I had to time stamp the bids to make sure the first bidder got the painting.

I never missed a day, and I sold all 365 pieces. Talk about learning how to draw faces..."

"Is it hard to part with these family

portraits?"

"I'm not attached to the work itself. I'm attached to the imagery.

It's like reading a book. As you read a book, you have a visual story. It's the visual story that drives me. I always paint black women.

"We need to see ourselves in spaces we are not in--museums."

Adrienne's work has hung in the Mississippi Museum of Art. And in her soft-spoken approach to effecting change, she talked of stepping over the line--in calm rather than protest.

Art statistics support that position.

According to a December 2022 article from "Art Newsletter," extensive new research across 31 U.S. museums reveals that works by Black American female artists represent only 0.05% of museum acquisitions.

Adrienne's newest solo exhibition is at Pencil on Paper Gallery in Dallas: "Taken Aback by My Own Beauty: Identity as Rebellion." The show highlights a twin painting of her daughter, Zion. It's life-sized and exudes the power and beauty of a young black woman.

There is no question - Adrienne's work will hang in museums across the country. But for now, Southside Gallery will host her next show in October. And she will have an exhibition at Fischer Gallery in Jackson next May. "What's next for you and Taariq?"

Adrienne and Taariq have been in Mississippi for fifteen years but have traveled extensively as her art has hung in galleries around the country.

"I miss the Midwest. Our girls have grown up. Taariq is in Chicago now, scouting it out for a move. It's time."

As Mississippi does so well, it changes people. For all its problems and eccentricities, the state and its people get in our blood. And for fifteen years, Adrienne has involved the state's mysteries and beauty, by design or by accident, into each face, each form, and each matrix of her art. She will carry her revolution wherever she travels; hopefully, Mississippi will travel with her.

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& CULTURE

ARTS

IT’S BLUESTIME AGAIN IN

OXFORD 12 Annual Oxford Blues Festival, October 12-14 at Lafayette County Arena

BY DAVIS COEN PHOTOS BY DANEEL FERREIRA

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Mid-October is the time of year when blues music gets a local spotlight, as the Oxford Blues Festival returns to town. Almost annually since 2010, the festival has celebrated what might be the most universally known export to come out of the state of Mississippi, the ‘Birthplace of American Music.’

The long-running festival, now in its twelfth year, will take place for the first time at Lafayette County Arena, located at 70 F.D. Buddy East Parkway. Related events run from Thursday afternoon to Saturday evening, October 12 - 14, and include something for music lovers of all stripes.

Headliners this year represent an array of musical styles, mostly rooted in the blues genre. “Music is all so connected,” said Oxford native and festival producer, Darryl Parker, who doesn’t consider himself a purist, but welcomes and encourages originality as it relates to blues.

“Whether it’s blues, or rock, or Celtic music, I always wanted to

keep it open, and let the bands express themselves any way they want to.”

This year’s line-up of musicians also reflects various parts of Mississippi. One of the more traditional blues artists, Little Willie Farmer, hails from Duck Hill, MS, while Anthony “Big A” Sherod strongly represents the Delta, and besides having toured extensively, is a mainstay in Clarksdale, MS. Local blues is also wellrepresented in the duo Wendy Jean Garrison & Andrea Staten, both based in Oxford, as well as Mud Alexander, who grew up in Taylor, MS. “We don’t want to have an Oxford Blues Festival without having some Oxford people there,” said Parker.

Other regional musicians include Randy Ferguson, Andrew “Cadillac Funk” Yurkow, Mick Kolassa, and Mizz Lowe.

One thing setting this year apart from the past is that female musicians make up one-third of the

roster. This is refreshingly unique for a typically male-dominated professional field.

The festival commences at 1 p.m. on Thursday, with a free, live-panel event located at The Blues Archive at the University of Mississippi, on the third floor of the J.D. Williams Library.

The guest panelists will be Red Paden, owner of the legendary Red’s Lounge in Clarksdale, and Roger Stolle, who runs Cat Head Delta Blues & Folk Art shop in Clarksdale, and helps coordinate much of the city’s blues tourism. Their panel is called, ‘Juke Joints Unplugged: Tales and Tunes from Mississippi’s Soulful Hideaways!’

Also from Clarkdale, educator and co-founder of the North Mississippi Civil Rights Museum, Brenda Luckett, will lead a panel named, ‘Soulful Sounds: Blues Music and the Ongoing Pursuit for Justice,’ starting at 2:30 p.m.

The panels will be followed later at 6 p.m. by a blues-laced segment of

Thacker Mountain Radio Hour, featuring local players Davis Coen & Kinney Kimbrough, and New Orleans funkster Ernest Vincent.

This will take place at The Graduate Hotel in downtown Oxford.

Ticketed events at the arena begin at 6:30 p.m. on Friday with the ‘Emerging Blues Artist Showcase,’ which is a competition between six newer artists and will award first, second, and third place honors to participants. This is all in the spirit of encouraging community interest in the blues, and inspiring musicians to play future festivals.

Bands will be judged mainly on originality (or originality at interpreting traditional blues) and overall stage presence. Those in attendance will also have a chance to vote on the competing talent, and ballots will be weighed together with the judges' votes.

“There are people out there who are creative, so let’s foster that creativity, without having carbon copies of all these greats we’ve had,”

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said Parker. “I mean, there’s a place for that, but if somebody wants to combine blues and rock, or blues and hip-hop, or blues and metal - I’m not gonna say ‘no, you can’t play because you’re not of a certain mold.’”

Arena doors open at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, for the main event, and live performances run from 11:10 to 9:15 p.m. Over a dozen food trucks are also expected at the arena, as well as arts & crafts vendors. There will be drink sales on-premise, including sodas and adult beverages.

Tickets for students are discounted at $15, and general admission is $35.

There is also a VIP package which includes reserved parking, private air-conditioned restrooms, complimentary food & drink from local restaurants, and priority seating for the live entertainment.

Parker encourages any active, working musicians to inquire in advance about free admission, in another effort to encourage and support the local arts. This can be done by visiting OxfordBluesFest.

com/FreeGigTicket.

A music festival over a decade in the works Although putting on the Oxford Blues Fest has not been without uphill battles for Parker, it certainly hit the ground running in 2010, its inaugural year. He returned to his hometown after being away for a while and became driven by what had become a vibrant local music scene.

“I remember thinking, ‘I wish there were more festivals, other than waiting a whole year for Double Decker,’” he said.

Parker, who says he enjoys many genres of music - and that the festival could have just as well been for country or bluegrass - felt especially aback about the nearest blues festival in Mississippi being an hour drive away in Clarksdale.

“Oxford’s not trying to be the Delta, but we like good music here, too,” he said. “And I like the blues.”

First intended to be a free, outdoor festival - somewhat like the annual

Double Decker Arts Fest, but on a smaller scale - Parker was forced to take a different approach when his permit application was denied, mainly due to strict noise ordinances, which still plague live music events in the city today.

In turn, Oxford Blues Fest took place mostly at various indoor locations around Courthouse Square - including some now bygone, like Red House Burger & Blues.

Parker recalled that most of the performers the first year were playing to packed houses, which hosted hundreds of spectators. “It could have been just because it was the first year, but I was happy,” he said. “That didn’t only happen the first year…but seeing those people come together and the smiles on their faces - tapping their toes and dancing, and having a good time - I mean, those moments happen every year, but the first year was magic.”

Although Parker still hopes for a day when it could be a free, outdoor festival - as he had first intended - he

is grateful for the use of the arena.

This was facilitated by Wayne Andrews of The Powerhouse, who was also willing to share beverage sales with the festival, which will greatly help compensate the performers.

Also, local sponsorships are crucial for maintaining this annual celebration of a music genre practically synonymous with the Magnolia State. Parker asks businesses who still wish to participate this year to reach out through the website, OxfordBluesFest.com.

It should seem that in a thriving city, with the largest blues archive on the planet, that the community would only increase its support.

“Oxford is known for many things besides music,” said Parker, “but I think it’s a good thing to do this festival. Look at the joy that it brings people.”

“Particularly with the blues, it's not just about bad times. It's about the healing spirit.” - Taj Mahal.

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ARTS

& CULTURE

Sanctuary Arts Festival Featured Artist 2023-2024 Susan Mah: Social Justice Photography in the South

BY ZOE FITCH PHOTOS BY XXXXXXXX

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The South holds a long history of both positive and negative happenings, and artists continue to investigate the past, present, and unforetold future today. “Place” allows for a state of being that invites investigation into one’s past and present as well as potential future for all. While this process is accessible in any place and the moments between, the American South is a region that promotes a slowed position that benefits artists’ work flow as well as socioeconomic factors.

Susan Mah was born in Memphis, Tennessee, and now calls Mississippi home. She is a psychotherapist and part of the staff at a San Jose, California community health clinic. Mah earned a scholarship to study Photography at L’Ecole Parsons in Paris, France and later received her Master of Fine Arts (MFA) from the Academy of Art University in San Francisco, California. She now holds a bachelor’s degree in sociology as well as two master’s degrees in clinical social work and fine arts with an emphasis in photography. As a psychotherapist and fine art photographer, Mah brings a unique and eclectic perspective to her work in both realms.

Her father was an architect, and Mah’s siblings are both artists as well. Much of her upbringing and environments are undoubtedly influences in her fine art practice. Some would say it just runs in the family. She investigates states of being, changes of place, and obstacles to enlightenment. Mah’s images are both reflections of her life over the years as well as a record of society in various areas of the country even when the human figure is not present.

The through-line in her artistic process, research, and fine art is her goal to connect her interests in clinical social work and photography.

She says that she aims to create imagery that is both “thought-provoking and purpose-driven”.

There are aspects of art therapy as well as sociopolitical critiques and calls to action in her photography projects. Some of her past projects include Mah’s thesis on grief and loss landscapes, Memphis Faces that captured the many natural states of Memphians where Mah is from, The Lost Project which merged psychology and

photography in an exploration of the human condition, and a small body of work titled “Viral: 25 Years” that was a contribution to a group project honoring the late Rodney King.

Mah’s social justice photography explores interpersonal relationships as well as broad social aspects in modern American society. For example, she notes that in this day and age, in the United States, many believe that health care and other human rights are a privilege. Mah’s photography shines a light on individuals as well as specific marginalized groups. Sometimes just seeing another human being’s expression can make one consider their own privilege and perspective in society.

Her current project is titled “This American Dystopia” and is a continuation of her research into social justice and her connection to photography. She states, “My inspirations for this series (This American Dystopia) of images are as follows: (1) The Supreme Court overturning Roe vs. Wade in 2022; (2) reading Margaret Atwood’s “The Handmaid’s Tale” in 2019; (3) an assignment I had in 2013 while pursuing my MFA in fine art photography: “Take a photo of 300 years from now;” (4) the deleterious effects of Trumpism and capitalism.

This body of work is a glimpse into the future, as

I imagine it, as well as manifestations of that dystopia, which I see in present times. It is also a call to action with simple ideas of how to move forward”. Sixteen different American states are represented in this project.

Susan Mah has been interviewed by the Indie Publishing Group in 2017, Toofulltowrite (I’ve started so I’ll finish) in 2017, and others. Today Mah works as a certified social worker as well as a fine art photographer in Mississippi. She recalls living in California and being unable to afford the cost of living, but Mississippi accommodates the way of life and the means to afford working as a visual artist. Her work seamlessly marries both social justice dilemmas as well as fine art photography with its rawness.

While Mississippi’s history holds dark aspects, its present has much work to do for the future. America’s social justice dilemma is ever present, but many are working to change this for the better. Susan Mah has connected her photography to her work in psychotherapy in order to shine a light on marginalized areas of society. And while change is arguably always on the horizon, Mah’s photography highlights her personal experiences, the people, and cultures of today from California to Mississippi to tomorrow.

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ARTS

& CULTURE

Sanctuary Arts Festival Featured Artist 2023-2024 Chesley Pearman: The Delta’s Painter

BY ZOE FITCH PHOTOS BY JOEY BRENT

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Being “southern”, specifically a southern artist, means different things depending on context and who you talk to. To a southerner, being “southern” most likely means knowing the dialect or southernisms (social rituals), having a certain level of properness and social awareness, and understanding that in some parts of the country time moves at a different pace.

There’s a level of enchantment to the South due to the undeniable beauty of the landscape, lighting you cannot find anywhere else, and the characters you encounter. But that mystery comes with good and bad spirits from history.

An aspect I have found amongst many southerners is the everlonging itch to record what we see as if it is going somewhere. I believe this comes from the stigma that the South holds and the want to understand the land we’re tied to. Even so, distraction from this idea is not possible in areas such as the Delta where the hills run flat, the cicadas hum louder, and the sun is a little hotter.

In the flat plains of the Delta, in Merigold, Mississippi, lies Chesley Pearman’s studio and home. Arthur Chesley Pearman III is a painter from just outside Shaw, Mississippi and has lived and created in the Mississippi Delta all his life. When asked about what drives his work Pearman described the folklore of chasing “that blue dog”, a unique idea that stays with you and people respond to. The blue dog is the one artistic idea that you chase all your life just to understand it for a second.

Pearman paints primarily landscape paintings as well as some figurative work. His paintings mimic the feeling of the heat at a certain time of day at his studio, as if one sense can relay another.

I visited Pearman’s studio in Merigold, MS to better understand his practice and environment as a Delta artist. He metaphorically described his studio practice as a living pond. When there is no new flowing water, (ideas) the pond becomes stagnant and therefore toxic. Pearman writes and paints and creates in his cabin-esque studio. The walls are

full of paintings and drawings, perfect for a painter surrounded by inspiration. As an artist, I know all too well that one must surround themselves with reminders or the thought might not come to fruition.

We talked about what it means to paint what you see, not what you think you are seeing.

This distinction is so relevant to the southern experience. One can see many different scenes in one place just by the changing light throughout the day, and presence is necessary.

As Charles Raegan Wilson writes, “ William Falukner saw southerners trapped in history, with yesterday always present in today.”

Sometimes, as an artist, you see something new and unique to your own experience, and sometimes you “see” what has always been there. Seeing is not always a visual image down here but a realization of an experience that took a long time to happen.

Pearman attended The University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) where he studied Psychology, English, and Art at Ole Miss. He taught at Indianola High School before deciding to solely focus on his art. After a marriage and having a son, Pearman returned to the Delta to paint, write, and record music again. Jazz, blues, country, and soul fill Pearman’s ears and inspire his work.

Pearman’s landscape paintings reflect the changing of the seasons in the American South and the changing of light by the second through vivid hues and varying textures. He is inspired

by artists such as William Christenberry, Mark Rothko, and Edward Hopper, and his work resembles the spiritual qualities of these artists. Gestural marks fill whatever surface he decides to paint on. Chesley Pearman is a painter’s painter, meaning he paints because he has to not because he has something to sell or a message to prove.

Today, Steven Smith and David Alford solely sell Pearman’s work on his behalf.

Pearman explained how marketing and pricing his work was difficult to do on his own, so he welcomed the help of his trusted friends. His work can also be found in the window of the Ellis Gallery in Cleveland, MS. Pearman also currently has a studio at Delta State University that he visits as often as he can.

Southern identity is reliant on social memory and in what time and space you find yourself in history. Place to a southerner has a connection to conceptual history as well as a psychological one to the land. The South has a mesmerizing quality that evokes curiosity.

Artists have been created from and drawn to this region for the same reason. Pearman is the Delta’s painter because the Delta is his home.

The Delta is the stories told over again by his family and friends. The Delta is a place where history overlaps the present. Place has an effect on imagination and evokes a lifelong curiosity for interpreting the land, the culture, and therefore oneself. As Chesley Pearman says, “Find that blue dog and stay with it.”

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REAL ESTATE

FOOTBALL, FALL AND

SQUARE LIVING

BY ALYSON DUCKWORTH PHOTOS BY BRUCE NEWMAN

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John and Sheila Fullenwider began their square journey almost 18 years ago. Nestled above Hinton & Hinton, this worldly and welcoming space is the perfect spot to enjoy a balcony Hotty Toddy cocktail overlooking the square. It has become the ultimate gathering place for quaint political events, Ole Miss football celebrations, and family entertainment.

After losing John in the Spring of 2022, Sheila found herself spending more time in Oxford and decided it was time for a facelift to their square condo.

She contacted Pearly Peacock Design and we were thrilled to take on the task!

At Pearly Peacock Design we like to understand the history of the spaces we design, so we reached out to local historian, John Cofield, to inquire about the origin of the building. John is the

author of three books detailing Oxford and its history and is currently in the process of writing a fourth book focusing on the buildings around the square. He is a very resourceful friend.

However, this particular building is quite the mystery. The only information he could dig up was that it was once a pharmacy.

Needless to say, it is an old structure. We repaired plaster during the renovation that really showed its age. The extensive number of years this building has been standing added challenges to the renovation, but age is this condo’s charm.

During our initial consultation, my first thoughts

were that the colors were indicative of the early two 2000’s. It was time to lighten up the space with crisp, clean and new hues. After deciding to use monochromatic creams, we began with painting the walls Sherwin Williams “Ivory Lace.”

The warm white accentuated the pine floors beautifully. Bringing

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light to the room also allowed the current contents to pop with personality, making all of the old furniture feel new again. Small updates as simple as painting walls can truly transform a space.

From there, we mixed in new pieces with old for a worldly livedin feel. In the living room, we removed a bar that was no longer in use and replaced it with a seating area to read, enjoy coffee, wine or both. The main living area is very spacious, so we used furniture to break it into functional intimate nooks.

The major transformation was the master bathroom. We began by gutting and converting the tub shower into a walk-in. To maintain the original integrity of the home, we decided to keep the original flooring. It was a challenge to coordinate the new shower tile with the original floors, but the ultimate choice achieved a modern timeless look.

The second transformation was the kitchen. We updated the countertops with honed Taj Mahal quartzite and a clear glass backsplash. Then, we added a new Revelation light fixture to complete the look.

Each room received a facelift with the addition of new pieces

that married well with the Fullenwider’s already existing treasures. Sheila and John collected amazing local artists like Jere Allen, as well as art from around the world. Moving these stunning works of art to new areas gave each room a fresh and new feel.

The Pearly Peacock is fortunate to have had the opportunity to work in this beautiful space. It is truly moving to sit on the balcony and watch the square come to life with its hometown charm. Sheila and her family will enjoy their updated slice of heaven for years to come.

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READ THIS BOOK

BOOKS FOR FALL Recommendations from

LYN ROBERTS General Manager, Square Books

THE EXCHANGE

By John Grisham

What became of Mitch and Abby McDeere after they exposed the crimes of Memphis law firm Bendini, Lambert & Locke and fled the country? The answer is in The Exchange, the riveting sequel to The Firm, the blockbuster thriller that launched the career of America’s favorite storyteller. It is now fifteen years later, and Mitch and Abby are living in Manhattan, where Mitch is a partner at the largest law firm in the world. When a mentor in Rome asks him for a favor that will take him far from home, Mitch finds himself at the center of a sinister plot that has worldwide implications—and once again endangers his colleagues, friends, and family. Mitch has become a master at staying one step ahead of his adversaries, but this time there’s nowhere to hide.

THE COMFORT OF CROWS: A BACKYARD YEAR

By Margaret Renkl

From the beloved New York Times opinion writer and bestselling author of Late Migrations comes a luminous book that traces the passing of seasons, personal and natural. In The Comfort of Crows, Margaret Renkl presents a literary devotional: fifty-two chapters that follow the creatures and plants in her backyard over the course of a year. As we move through the seasons--from a crow spied on New Year’s Day, its resourcefulness and sense of community setting a theme for the year, to the lingering bluebirds of December, revisiting the nest box they used in spring--what develops is a portrait of joy and grief: joy in the ongoing pleasures of the natural world, and grief over winters that end too soon and songbirds that grow fewer and fewer.

LET US DESCEND

By Jesmyn Ward

From Mississippian Jesmyn Ward—the two-time National Book Award winner, youngest winner of the Library of Congress Prize for Fiction, and MacArthur Fellow—comes a haunting masterpiece, sure to be an instant classic, about an enslaved girl in the years before the Civil War. Let Us Descend is a reimagining of American slavery, as beautifully rendered as it is heart-wrenching.

Searching, harrowing, replete with transcendent love, the novel is a journey from the rice fields of the Carolinas to the slave markets of New Orleans and into the fearsome heart of a Louisiana sugar plantation.

From one of the most singularly brilliant and beloved writers of her generation, this miracle of a novel inscribes Black American grief and joy into the very land—the rich but unforgiving forests, swamps, and rivers of the American South. Let Us Descend is Jesmyn Ward’s most magnificent novel yet, a masterwork for the ages.

CLASSICAL SHINDIG

By Michael Harold and Quinn Peeper

From seasonal celebrations to iconic book clubs to lavish parties for friends, family, and charities , Michael and Quinn have seen, done, and decorated it all. Both are classical pianists and brilliant hosts.tips and tricks that even an amateur can execute.

NOT FOREVER BUT FOR NOW

By Chuck Palahniuk

From the bestselling author of Fight Club comes a hilarious horror satire about a family of professional killers responsible for the most atrocious events in history and the young brothers that are destined to take over.

Meet Otto and Cecil. Two brothers growing up privileged in the Welsh countryside. They enjoy watching nature shows, playing with their pet pony, impersonating their Grandfather...and killing the help. Murder is the family business after all.

Downton Abbey, this is not.

THE CARETAKER

By Ron Rash

A breathtaking love story and a searing examination of the acts we seek to justify in the name of duty, family, honor, and love.

It’s 1951 in Blowing Rock, North Carolina. Blackburn Gant, his life irrevocably altered by a childhood case of polio, seems condemned to spend his life among the dead as the sole caretaker of a hilltop cemetery. It suits his withdrawn personality, but when his best and only friend, the kind but impulsive Jacob Hampton, is conscripted to serve overseas, Blackburn is charged with caring for Jacob’s wife, Naomi, as well.

HEIRLOOM ROOMS: SOULFUL STORIES OF HOME

By Erin Napier

From Erin Napier comes a collection of essays walking us through every room in her home, telling the story of a family’s life, of the days that made their home the place she longs for when she’s away.

We learn about when they became the new owners of Erin’s dream house from childhood in downtown Laurel, Mississippi, and explore the beautiful homes of family, friends, and projects past in photographs.

With essays that evoke her Southern home, photos of the beautifully imperfect, lived-in spaces of her family and friends, and prompts for us to document our own homemade memories, Heirloom Rooms feels like walking through the front door of the collected and loved-in houses Erin and Ben are known for revitalizing in HGTV’s #1 hit series, Home Town.

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FOOD

Snack Quack if you

Oxford’s Fine-Dining Standards Meet the Hot Dog Stand

BY ELIZABETH TETTLETON MASON PHOTOS SUBMITTED

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What do loaded teas, Irish setters, Saturday brunch, and Conecuh hot dogs all have in common? Three guys and a dream to bring fine-dining quality food to a not-so-typical casual bar setting.

Quack’s, situated on the Oxford Square, is just steps away from the local comfort-food staple, Ajax, and the historic Lafayette County Courthouse.

Joe Bittick, Luke McKey, and Will Pipes are leading the way to a new type of bar on the square – one where they want you to have a ‘secret handshake to-get-in’ feeling, and ‘where everybody knows your name’ vibe.

They’re settling into their freshly renovated space that once was home to Irie, Rowdy Rebs, and Billups, but carefully making choices that are already paying off.

You might write off ‘the new bar’ too quickly, until you walk up to get your first drink. Months leading up to the opening of Quack’s, Will Pipes started buzz around the square with an engaging promotional idea: signage for Quack’s with their logo and a QR code soliciting photo submissions of people with their dogs. Covering every inch of the bar are photos of locals, college students, and

tourists with their beloved furry friends.

Luke pointed out Joe’s dogs, and then his dogs – Including a photo of his Irish Setter and her brood of puppies. “We plan to have the other counter surfaces covered in more photos too,” said McKey. “It’s an idea we had that also makes us different.”

He’s right – I have never found myself staring at a bar top more than that night, and the irony of being served dogs on top of dogs wasn’t lost on me. Hot Dogs are the mainstay of the Quack’s menu, but these aren’t your ordinary wieners.

“Making a hot dog is easy,” said Joe Bittick, head chef and co-owner of Quack’s. “But we want this to be different,” he said. “We’re applying high quality products with fine dining standards to redefine the ‘bar’ and ‘hot dog’ experience.”

Locals of Oxford may recognize Joe from his years at McEwen’s. Bittick has been in the restaurant industry in Oxford long enough to know what the people want: a good time and good food.

Luke brings to the table the bar business know-how and Joe brings the passion of creating delicious eats, and Will brings an eye

for selling the brand.

Few places in Oxford have brunch on Sunday AND Saturday, as well as late night fare that meets the crowd closing down the bar at night and the industry workers hungry and exhausted after a long shift. After hours, you can find Joe and his team prepping the late-night menu at the back door of Quack’s that opens up into the alley next to Funky’s.

“I really wanted a way to also do something for them, the industry folks,” said Bittick.

“There are few places besides McDonald’s, Chicken on a Stick at the Chevron, or CookOut where you can eat after the bars close.”

The late-night menu hosts the best-selling dogs from the day menu, plus pork rinds and chili cheese fries.

The day menu is robust with unique toppings, and nods to classics like a Chicago dog Featuring crawfish tails, etouffee sauce and Conecuh sausage, I knew that the Coast Trash was going to be the dog for me (and I’m not a hotdog person).

Before I could even order, Joe showed up with a paper boat of piping hot bread pudding, drizzled with chocolate and caramel sauce – “here Liz, try it while it’s hot! I’ll be right back,”

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and Joe ran off again. If you’ve never met Joe, his brain and his feet run at full speed. He’s one of those kitchen guys that is just as exuberant when he’s exhausted after a double as when he first walks into work.

He brought us other delicious things to try on top of what we ordered – one of which was his “chicken filet sauce” – which tastes nearly identical to the ‘holy’ grail of sauces with a similar name. He shared with our table of four his process for creating his chicken patties on the chicken sandwich (I was told one of the secret ingredients off-the-record) – one of two non-beef or pork options (the other being the Vegan-friendly LightLife Plant Based dog). If you want to meet someone excited about experimenting in the kitchen, Joe Bittick at Quack’s is one to meet -- but it’s not just the kitchen where the team at Quack’s are experimenting.

“We are testing out new things all the time,” said Luke McKey. “In any business you have to know when and

how to pivot, and we are still learning what that means for us.”

One way they are breaking the mold is with their loaded tea-cocktails.

Partnering with JXN Avenue Nutrition near PakMail and FireHouse Subs off Jackson Avenue, the Quack’s bartenders are mixing the loaded-tea craze with Jackson, Miss. distilled Cathead Vodka. Currently, you’ll find Frog Spit (with Cathead Honeysuckle Vodka) and Bunny Hopper (with Cathead Raspberry Vodka).

Partnering with the community is what they want to do more of, while bringing people together to have a good time and enjoy great food.

“We want to be a fixture in the Oxford community,” said Will Pipes.

“Like our relationship with JXN Avenue Nutrition and their loaded teas, to finding ways to partner with nonprofits, we want our social impact in Oxford to grow,” he said. “We hope you’ll see us at Double Decker, campus, or supporting great programs like The Grove Collective very soon.”

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STYLE

Q&A WITH HINTON & HINTON Q&A with Mark Shoemake, Store Manager/Custom Clothing and Whitney Smith, Store Manager/Buyer

BY ANGELA CUTRER PHOTOS BY BRUCE NEWMAN 32 September/October 2023

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For over 30 years, Hinton & Hinton has been filled from floor to ceiling with exceptional men’s clothing, making it an Oxford staple. Men from across the south have H&H garments hanging in their closets so we called up the staff and asked them what their secret for success has been all of these years.

How did Hinton & Hinton originate and when?

Whitney: “Our doors opened originally as Willis & Geiger in September 1992. In 1999, we moved to the other side of the Square and renamed to Hinton & Hinton. The Hinton family has always been in the apparel business. Steve was in school at Ole Miss, so it made sense to open a retail store in Oxford.”

What makes H&H the Oxford staple that it is?

Whitney: “First and foremost, our customers are what makes H&H the staple that it is. I thank you for the compliment. We are very fortunate with all of our staff and vendors who are truly considered our working family.

Without our fantastic staff and their expertise, we would not be considered the staple we are.

Business is all about relationships and we truly pride ourselves on mastering that.”

How did you become part of the Hinton & Hinton family & when Whitney: I was lucky to meet the Hintons

when I was 13. Steve was my youth group leader. I quickly became close with the family and, when I was 15, I started working in the store. I was the youngest and the only girl. It was quite eye opening - I focused on selling and making relationships and knew quickly it’s what I

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wanted to do forever. I worked for the Hintons on and off until I graduated from Ole Miss in 1999. I moved to the DC area and I worked as a sales associate, manager and buyer for Nordstrom. I moved back to Oxford in 2008. I picked up where I left off. I started work back at Hinton & Hinton. I have helped them expand our now three store fronts with brands and our new addition of the HER, ladies side.”

Mark: “I had an interview with Steve Hinton and I was late. Unfortunately, he had already left for the day. I had the bright idea to find a phone book with his home address. I knocked at the door and his wife Angela answered. They looked at me like I was crazy. I like to think of it as showing initiative. And fully believe it was why he hired me. Almost 25 years later, here I am.”

What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?

Mark: “There are many rewarding aspects of this job, but my favorite part is being part of a “next step’, or the process the customer has invited you into (whether they realize it or not) to achieve the goal or the impression he or she wants to make for Rush, that first date, the big

job interview, the wedding or whatever event.

It’s an honor and humbling for someone to place that trust in me for their ultimate goal and that never gets old.”

Whitney: “As the sales manager, the most rewarding part of my job is to see a young person I hire excel and eventually stay on with the family

as a full-time employee. I love to mentor our college employees and to see them grow personally and in the work environment. As one of the buyers, I get great reward in seeing the new merchandise come in and fly out the door. Sometimes you gamble on how much to bring in and when the gamble pays off, it’s amazing.”

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How does H&H stay ahead of men's fashion trends?

Whitney: “We focus on our staple brands for the majority of our merchandise offerings. The buyers attend markets in Dallas, Chicago, Charlotte, New York and Las Vegas to stay up to date on trend for the season. After the markets, decisions are made as to what the best fits are for our brand.”

We've noticed a large Duckhead display over the last year or so. Is this brand making a big comeback? Are there any other oldie-but-goodie brands we should look for?

Whitney: “Duckhead absolutely has made a comeback. They have always been known for classic styles and durability. They have recently started to become a destination for customers.

The prices are very digestible and that makes our customers of all ages able to purchase an entire outfit at a reasonable price.”

What new brands are making a big splash? Why do you think so?

Whitney: “Our newest brand that is selling well is Oncept shoes. The company has been

around for a few years. They are known for fashion, color and comfort. We have recently done a collaboration with them and created an exclusive red and blue Ole Miss show for men and ladies.”

Is there anything especially exciting that we should look for this fall?

Whitney: “Fall is always one of the most exciting times of the year with all of the cozy and comfortable fabrics. This year, we were able to offer a wide variety of exclusive products. We have exclusive game day shirts, versts and pullovers from Peter Millar and Johnnie O. We also have the exclusive shoe from Oncept, which is awesome.”

What is the process of ordering a custom suit, and roughly how long does it take?

Mark: “Custom and bespoke suiting is my passion and favorite thing to do. There are many wonderful options to buy off the rack, but there’s something special about putting that suit, coat, shirt on that was made just for you. It not only has an elevated feel and fit, but it’s an expression of style all your own that’s an exten-

sion of your personality. The fitting process is thorough, but relatively quick, and selecting fabric, lining, buttons and other details is fun and interesting. The assembly, construction and competition takes an average of four weeks, somethings shorter and sometimes longer, but the main thing is giving enough time for the cake to bake so it comes out just right.

It’s worth the wait and I’m thankful to always help when you decide the time is right for something unique and refined.”

We noticed that your shoe selection has expanded & we love it! Have you added any new shoe brands?

Whitney: “Our shoe business has taken off and we are loving it! Our shoe categories have expanded with all the brands we carry. We recently started carrying Double B boots, which was started by an Ole Miss graduate, Ben Bowen. Martin Dingman is also a huge part of our shoe presentation and offers an impressive assortment, ranging from driving shoes, slippers, sneakers, boots and comfortable dress. Magnanni is our newest brand addition as is our highest end dress and casual shoe with Italian leathers and updated twists.”

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What is your hem policy?

Mark: “We offer in-store alterations that are complementary on regular-priced merchandise.”

There is always a familiar face in H&H. Has the long-time staff contributed to the success of the store?

Steve Hinton: “We are blessed to have the work family that we do. Every person holds an intricate contribution like a piece of a puzzle that fits together beautifully. With every piece, the puzzle is now complete. Having such a wonderful staff makes working here fun and, after 30 years. Add to that, the majority of this time both Mark and Whitney have pretty much been here the whole time. How fortunate we are. All I can say for myself and my dad is thank you and we love you. We look forward to the next 30 years with you guys.”

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TOP 2023

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UNDER 40 9/27/23 12:08 PM

20 UNDER 40

ALISON DOYLE Baptist North Mississippi, Lactation Consultant

Educational background Bachelor's Degree in Political Science and a bachelor's degree in Nursing. Currently pursuing a Doctorate of Nursing Practice in Midwifery, graduation May 2024.

What inspired you to take your career path?

I was cared for by a midwife with all four of my children's births.

The gentle, thorough, and empowering care of a midwife was life changing. As a doula and childbirth educator, I realized how rewarding it is to be invited into such an important part of a family's growth. My husband saw it in me before I did, and with his support and encouragement, I realized taking care of people as a nurse-midwife was my passion.

What is the favorite part of your work day?

My favorite part of my work day is spending time with my fellow nurses that take such compassionate and nurturing

care of the growing families in our community. Collaborating with a team to show love and support to people during such a big life transition is very rewarding.

Volunteer/community/civic engagement Breastfeeding support group leader, Volunteer with Raising Mother to Rise (a program supporting teen mothers), Leadership Lafayette 2019, member of YAC Anything else you would like people to know about you?

My love for the Oxford community is immeasurable. I could spend the rest of my life giving back and would not even come close to what this community has given me. I came here as a 20 year old, new mother hoping to finish college. I have been able to do so much more because of two things: my supportive husband and the countless Oxford friends (now family) that have loved me so fiercely.

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20 UNDER 40

BESS FISHER Mitchell, McNutt & Sams, P.A.; Associate Attorney

Educational background University of Mississippi, B.A. in Political Science in 2017 (cum laude); University of Mississippi School of Law, J.D. in 2022 (magna cum laude) What inspired you to take your career path?

I love working with people and I love having answers when people have questions. The legal profession seemed

like a natural fit.

What is the favorite part of your work day?

I love mornings in the office. I've always been a morning person! My husband makes fun of me because I make my morning rounds everyday and catch up with my coworkers. I'm lucky to work in an office with such wonderful people.

And how lucky am I to get to work on the

Oxford Square?

Volunteer/community/ civic engagement I'm First Vice President of the Junior Auxiliary of Oxford and Assistant Alumni Advisor for Ole Miss Tri Delta sorority. I also serve on the Ole Miss Young Alumni Council and am a member of Oxford University United Methodist Church.

Anything else you would like people to know about you?

If I wasn't an attorney, I'd probably own a bakery or be a wedding planner. I also love to read-- my goal this year is 50 books!

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20 UNDER 40

Educational background Oxford High School & Mississippi State University: Building Construction Science

BLANE SELLERS Innovative Construction Management (ICM) - Operations Division Manager

What is the favorite part of your work day?

PEOPLE. We have a talented group of individuals committed to success at all levels in ICM. Those same characteristics apply to those trade partners, clients and design team members that we work with.

Working alongside those that truly have the same goals and passion for what they do, results in lifelong relationships and an amazing end product.

wanted to know what all went into the construction process. As I learned more about the industry, I learned about the many different trades that must be sequenced properly and work together to construct a complete building. Once I found out there was a career path in managing this process, I knew it was for me.

What inspired you to take your career path?

At a young age I found construction of large buildings fascinating. I always

Volunteer/community/ civic engagement Through my position at ICM, I have the opportunity to engage with people

involved in many different facets of our community. From the City of Oxford, to the public school districts, to multiple churches in the community and even the University, I have been able to help contribute to the success and growth of our city as a whole while also focusing on how it will impact the people of Oxford.

Through City, School District, and University involvement, I feel that I am able to engage with people in many different areas and try to understand their needs and desires to help better serve the individuals they support.

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Let us help you untangle the knots behavioral & primary health • substance abuse • IDD • narcan training

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20 UNDER 40

BRENT SUTHERLAND Pharm.D, G&M Pharmacy, Pharmacy Manager

Educational background Northwest Rankin High School, Brandon, MS. Hinds Community College, Raymond, MS. University of Memphis. University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy.

What inspired you to take your career path?

When I was playing football at Memphis, a teammate suggested pharmacy as a potential career path to use my Biology degree. I had always wanted to help people, and pharmacy seemed to be a great avenue for me to use that science background and do just that.

What is the favorite part of your work day?

Seeing familiar patients come in and talking to them about the day-to-day happenings in their lives. I enjoy getting to know my patients on a personal level, and luckily being a pharmacist in a setting where we can interact easily occurs throughout the day.

Volunteer/community/ civic engagement I take care of several patients’ yards/ landscaping with a side company I started a while back. I am also an active

alumnus of the Ole Miss School of Pharmacy and working with students that come through the pharmacy during their years here on the Oxford campus.

Anything else you would like people to know about you?

My wife and I are very excited to have our first child joining our family this upcoming fall. Before attending Ole Miss School of Pharmacy, I was a punter for the University of Memphis football team. In my free time I enjoy riding dirt bikes, fishing, and watching Ole Miss sports.

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20 UNDER 40 clients put into therapy, but also bring a sense of fulfillment and joy to me. It is immensely gratifying to witness individuals develop resilience, enhance their self-awareness, and gain the tools necessary to navigate life's challenges. Being able to contribute to their personal growth and witness their progress is truly a privilege. The gratitude expressed by my clients is a constant reminder of the positive impact therapy can have on their lives. Knowing that I have made a difference, even in a small way, brings a deep sense of satisfaction and continues to fuel my dedication to helping others.

COLLIN HILL

LMSW, Acceptance Counseling Services and Hope Enrichment Center, Licensed Master Social Worker- Therapist Educational background •Bachelor of Science in Criminal JusticeUniversity of Mississippi 2020 •Yoga Licensing- 2021 •LENS (Low Energy Neurofeedback System) Provider- August 2021 •Master of Social Work- Louisiana State University 2022 •LMSW (Licensed Master Social Worker)-2022 •EMDR Trained- 2022 What inspired you to take your career path?

My own personal experiences with therapy played a significant role in shaping my desire to become a therapist. Throughout my life, I have encountered various challenges and witnessed the impact that mental health issues can have on individuals and their loved ones. These experiences ignited a deep empathy and compassion within me, compelling me to make a difference in the lives of those who are struggling. I recognized the growing need for mental health professionals in our society, as the prevalence of mental health issues continues to rise. By becoming a therapist, I knew that I

would have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on individuals, families, and communities, ultimately contributing to the betterment of society as a whole.

Becoming a therapist was a decision that is deeply personal to me and rooted in a strong passion for helping others. I also want to thank my mentor, Anna Windham, LCSW, for inspiring me to choose this specific path for my career. I am very appreciative of all the hard work that she has put in to shape me into the therapist and young professional that I am today.

What is the favorite part of your work day?

An aspect of my day that I cherish the most is the moment when a breakthrough occurs. It is a remarkable experience to witness clients gain new insights, achieve personal growth, and overcome obstacles that were once holding them back. Witnessing the positive changes in my clients' lives is incredibly rewarding and reaffirms my passion for this profession. These breakthroughs not only validate the hard work and dedication my

Volunteer/community/civic engagement I became an ambassador for the chamber in 2019. I have served on the Board of Directors for the Oxford-Lafayette Chamber of Commerce & held the chair position for the Chamber Ambassador program for two years. I have also served on the Gala committee, Membership committee, Christmas Party and Parade Committee, and Golf Tournament Committee along with volunteering with the Annual Chamber meeting and Spring Run. I believe volunteering is vital because it helps to strengthen your community. It fosters connections between diverse groups of people, and aids in solving local issues. Plus, it’s a great way to gain new skills and experiences!

Anything else you would like people to know about you?

I believe in creating a safe and nonjudgmental space for my clients to explore their thoughts and emotions. I strive to establish a trusting and collaborative relationship with each individual, understanding that therapy is a deeply personal and vulnerable process. I recognise that each person's experiences and background are unique, and I strive to create an inclusive environment that respects and values individual differences. I am mindful of cultural, gender, and socioeconomic factors that may impact my clients' well-being and tailor my approach accordingly. I am committed to providing a safe, supportive, and empathetic space for individuals to explore their challenges, develop coping strategies, and work towards personal growth and healing.

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20 UNDER 40

ERIC DUMAR WILLIAMS Orangetheory Fitness Head Coach for 8 years Educational background B.S. Exercise Science from The University of Mississippi What inspired you to take your career path?

What drove me to this career path is my passion for helping others achieve their fitness goals, the sense of community and camaraderie created within our studio, and the opportunity to make a positive impact on people's lives through physical activity and wellness.

Also, being a former athlete (ran track at

Ole Miss) my own fitness journey keeps me staying up-to-date with fitness trends, and witnessing the progress and achievements of all the members.

What is the favorite part of your work day?

Every hour of the day I have the opportunity to make someone feel better about themselves and put a smile on their face. It’s awesome because we hear and learn so much about people it makes it easier to connect with a person and better help

them reach their goals.

Volunteer/community/ civic engagement Every month I donate canned foods to the Pantry. Also, I’ve volunteered there around the holidays. For the last 3 hero’s I’ve been a St. Jude Anything else you would like people to know about you?

Avid gardener and amateur mycologist.

Proud husband and father to wife, Karyn Williams and son, Eric Kendrix Williams.

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20 UNDER 40 Educational background In college What inspired you to take your career path?

My life changed drastically with help from other people.

I wanted to be a small part of someone else’s life changing for the better What is the favorite part of your work day?

Being able to share my life experience, and that experience creating a spark of hope in someone’s life to try a new way to live!

JENNIFER ZAHA Communicare, Peer Support specialist

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20 UNDER 40 Educational background BBA and MBA from University of Mississippi What inspired you to take your career path?

I have always been interested in real estate. The ability to create my own path and outcome helped gravitate me to real estate development.

What is the favorite part of your work day?

No day is the same. I enjoy solving the challenges each day presents.

Volunteer/community/ civic engagement Cystic Fibrosis Anything else you would like people to know about you?

When I am not working, I enjoy spending time with my wife, two daughters, and family. I also enjoy sports and staying busy outside of work. I am not good at staying idle.

JOE PEGRAM

Streamline Development Partners- Partner - Co-founder.

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20 UNDER 40 Educational background The University of Mississippi, Bachelor of Arts, Major in Park and Recreation Management with emphasis in Hospitality Management What inspired you to take your career path?

While in college, I volunteered and helped with the Double Decker Arts Festival and loved it. I was actually in charge of the the kids area when I volunteered. After college, I went into sales but after starting a family, my priorities changed. The position became available to coordinate the festival and it felt like the perfect fit and timing. The coordinator position allowed me to spend time with my kids while helping create one of the most fun weekends in Oxford for so many people.

What is the favorite part of your work day?

My favorite part of the planning the Double Decker Arts Festival each year is the when the very last band takes the main stage on Saturday night. I love to go back stage and and look out at the crowd and see everyone dancing, singing and having fun and know that I was part of making that all possible!

Volunteer/community/ civic engagement I have been an active member of the LOU Community since 2012. I have served as the Double Decker Coordinator for the Double Decker Arts Festival since 2014 and has produced 8 successful festivals since that time and continues to find new ways to grow the festival and enhance the attendees' experience. During my time in Oxford, I have served in the Oxford chapter of Junior Auxiliary, am very involved in the Oxford School District’s PTO, serve as an advisor for Chi Omega sorority and am an active member at St. John’s Catholic Church.

LEE ANN STUBBS Visit Oxford/Double Decker Coordinator 50 September/October 2023

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20 UNDER 40 Educational background Bachelor of Science in Culinary Arts from The W in 2013 What inspired you to take your career path?

My family and the memories we made cooking together.

What is your favorite part of your work day?

My favorite is connecting with clients or coworkers and students and developing personalized menus that accommodate a variety of request and specialized dietary needs.

Volunteer/community/ civic engagement I am a member of Community Church Oxford where I volunteer for a variety events hosted by the church and within the church.

Anything else you would like people to know about you?

It is a true honor to have been nominated and selected for this award. I have been cooking since I was 5 years old with my grandfather and father and cooking is a true passion of mine. I recently decided to start my own business-LM catering that allows me to share my passion with others by coming to their homes and cooking as their private chef for the events they are hosting or even intimate dinner parties. I would like to extend my gratitude for the nomination and I am very thankful for everyone that voted for me to be awarded this honor. I would also like to thank my wife of six years, Hayley Smith Miller, and our son Cohen who has always been there to support me and my passion for cooking and the endeavors that have come along with making my dreams a reality.

LEIF MILLER Food Director at Magnolia Montessori School and owner/Chef of LM Catering

CONGRATULATIONS, LEE ANN! We are so proud to congratulate our very own Honoree!

Double Decker Coordinator Lee Ann Stubbs as a 2023 20 Under 40 Honoree Lee Ann has been with us since 2014 and is a great asset to Visit Oxford & Oxford Tourism council.

1013 Jackson Ave. east oxford, ms 38655 800.758.9177 visitoxfordms.com @visitoxfordms OxfordMag.com 51

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20 UNDER 40

MARSHA THEOBALD Owner of Jumpin’ Jack’s Inflatables and Event Rentals Educational background Graduate of Lafayette High School 2007, Studied at Northwest Community College and The University of Mississippi What inspired you to take your career path?

As an entrepreneur, I saw the the need for more party and entertainment opportunities in our community especially when it comes to children.

What is the favorite part of your work day?

Providing fun to kids is an incredibly rewarding and enjoyable experience.

The joy in their eyes, infectious laughter, and boundless enthusiasm make every moment special. As an adult, being able to bring joy to children’s lives not only brightens their day, but also bring

immense joy and purpose to Jack and me. It is a privilege to be a source of fun and happiness for these young souls, and the bond formed through our customer’s experiences last a lifetime.

Volunteer/community/civic engagement Active member of Community Church Oxford, Member of the Oxford-Lafayette County Chamber of Commerce, regular sponsor of Junior Auxiliary and Pack 4 Anything else you would like people to know about you?

I was born and raised in Oxford, MS, and I’m passionate about this wonderful community! My husband, Jack, is a Captain with the Lafayette County Sheriff’s Department, as well as Southern District Constable. We have

three children: Lane (15), Greer (5), and Gentry (3). In addition to owning Jumpin’ Jack’s Inflatables and Event Rentals and overseeing the day-to-day operations, I worked the last 12 years at Ross Family Dental Clinic. I cared for patients as a dental assistant and office coordinator and have made many friendships along the way. I recently took a leave of absence from the dental field to hit the campaign trail full-time in pursuit of the position of Chancery Clerk. I enjoy opportunities for personal growth and I have great interest in serving our community on a larger scale. Thank you to the LOU community for this honor of being named one of your “Top 20 Under 40” Young Professionals. I would appreciate your vote for Chancery Clerk on November 7, 2023.

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20 UNDER 40

What is the favorite part of your work day?

Each work day is different, but my favorite part of my job is working with contractors and other departments on upcoming projects and developments within our city.

Many people do not realize it, but there is so much work that goes on behind closed doors before these things can happen.

Oxford is really growing and so many exciting things are happening. I'm glad that in a way, I get to be a small part of that.

MEGAN BAKER City of Oxford-Building Administrator Educational background I am a graduate of the University of Mississippi with a Bachelors of Science in Hospitality Management.

What inspired you to take your career path?

I chose this career because I enjoy helping

people. Being born and raised in Oxford, I enjoy interacting with those I've known for years, and also the new people I meet daily. In addition, I feel that working for the City of Oxford is inspiring because there is always an opportunity to grow and learn new things, which makes each day exciting.

Volunteer/community/civic engagement I am a member of the PTO for Lafayette Elementary School and a volunteer at the Animal Resource Center. I also play an active role in the children’s ministry at my church. As a former Volunteer Coordinator for a local hospice company, I have spent countless hours coordinating and training volunteers for different events and engagements in the community.

Anything else you would like people to know about you?

I am thankful for those that thought I was worthy of this nomination and so proud to call Oxford, MS my hometown.

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20 UNDER 40 Educational background Undergraduate degree in Hospitality Management; graduate degree in Higher Education and Student Personel What inspired you to take your career path?

I was a lost college student when I arrived my freshman year, but I was in love with Oxford and Ole Miss instantly. I knew I wanted to do something in customer service or sales one day, but never dreamed I would be doing just that for the university I loved. As I went through school, I had so many women pour into me, from my academic adviser to faculty members, my mentors, and every professor in Hospitality Management. I knew I wanted to be like them. I wanted to help other lost college students and make them feel a little less out of place. That is when I moved from event planning to higher education.

My first job at Ole Miss working with our Luckyday Success Scholars for five years as their academic adviser and freshman year instructor. I moved into Parent and Family Programming and created the Ole Miss Family Association ten years ago. Now, I feel my life has come full circle as I serve our students and their families as they navigate campus and Oxford.

What is the favorite part of your work day?

We have such a strong community in Oxford, and I love sharing that with other people. Connecting folks to our local and campus resources is one of my favorite things. Each week, I send a newsletter to our Ole Miss parents or guardians, highlighting all the things we locals often take for granted. Sharing our downtown traditions or the amazing finds at the Oxford Community Market; letting out of state families see our little slice of heaven, where their student gets to call home for four years. Recruiting students to the Ole Miss Family is the greatest thing I do, and I am thankful every day for the opportunity. I also love hosting Fall Family Weekend, where we welcome over 2,500 families for the biggest tailgate in the Grove. Having the opportunity to highlight Oxford is a passion I’ve had since I interned with the Oxford Tourism Council and Double Decker Festival many years ago. The relationships between local hotels,

MERRILL MAGRUDER University of Mississippi, Special Assistant to the Chancellor for Family Engagement businesses, restaurants, especially my colleagues at Visit Oxford, are tangible to the Family Association and what makes Oxford unique.

Volunteer/community/civic engagement I love my time at St. Peter's, Phi Mu, Student Disability Services, and

mentoring undergraduate students Anything else you would like people to know about you?

My husband, Josh, is a therapist and we have the coolest daughter around, Bobbie Day.

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20 UNDER 40 camaraderie with my fellow officers and the opportunity to engage and connect with individuals within our community.

MIKE BURKS Oxford Police Department / Detective Sergeant Educational background Graduated West Union Attendance Center 2012, University of Mississippi 2016, and pursuing a Masters in Public Policy and Administration from MS State What inspired you to take your career path?

Law enforcement has always been

appealing to me for a variety of reasons. A sense of purpose, a team culture and a fast paced forever changing environment.

What is the favorite part of your work day?

There is no one part of the day since everyday is so different. What I love most about coming into work is the

Volunteer/community/ civic engagement I’m a graduate of the 2023 class of Leadership Lafayette. OPD is very involved in community engagement. I’ve participated in multiple events through the department such as trunk or treat, pack the patrol, and public speaking events at our schools.

Anything else you would like people to know about you?

Aside from law enforcement I’ve recently began working as a Realtor with Coldwell Banker Signature here in Oxford. I’ve learned a lot so far and look forward to helping more families in the home buying process. I would also like to thank the Mesecke family for their guidance in this profession. Lastly thank you to my beautiful wife Holley for being our family’s rock and my inspiration, I love you!

Being your neighbor

SETS US APART We take pride in being rooted in our community.

Our team consists of passionate individuals that call this area home. Their expertise and dedication ensure you receive solutions tailored to your needs.

Find out more about fiber internet from NE SPARC at

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20 UNDER 40

MITCHEL LOUGHRIDGE Highpoint Coffee Educational background I somehow managed to acquire a GED. Lol

What is the favorite part of your work day?

Interacting with other people!

What inspired you to take your career path?

It kinda just happened. I was at a place in my life that I didn’t really have a clue what I wanted to do, nor did I even want a “career” at that point. I feel very blessed for it today though! I started as a barista and slowly over time was handed more and more responsibilities. I think what did inspire me was the encouragement and trust of my boss/ best friend Joel Edlin and his wife Amy.

Volunteer/community/ civic engagement I really enjoy service work. Whether that be with hanging out with the youth at the skatepark to working with my recovery family.

Anything else you would like people to know about you?

When I first learned I was nominated for top 20 under 40 it made me really uncomfortable because I didn’t view

myself as a professional. After talking with my friends and loved ones I was able to put my insecurities aside and recognize this opportunity as something really amazing for a person like myself. I may not be your average suit wearing, briefcase carrying professional but I think that’s important for people like me to see. Just because you didn’t finish high school or have a college degree doesn’t mean you can’t strive to be “successful” in life. I try to judge my success by my level of happiness and having healthy relationships and (just for today) I’d say I’ve been pretty successful.

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20 UNDER 40

ROBERT PRATT DUNLAP Dunlap & Kyle Co., Inc. and Vice President-Purchasing Educational background Attended Mississippi State and Ole Miss.

Major in Accountancy and Minor in Spanish What inspired you to take your career path?

I thought hard about going to medical school, but we are blessed to have a 94-year-old wholesale tire distribution company filled with generations of both

mine and others' families. I spent much of my childhood at the warehouse growing to love those people, and the pull to join them and continue to build upon their success was too great.

What is the favorite part of your work day?

As much as I enjoy being part of the team at work, my favorite part of the workday is when I get home to my wife

Hannah, 3-year-old Adeline, and 1.5-year-old Luke.

Volunteer/community/ civic engagement Most of my friend time is spent raising a young family and enjoying a very sweet season of my children's lives, much of my other time is spent in activities with Christ Presbyterian Church of Oxford where I serve as a deacon

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20 UNDER 40 Reed Falkner Falkner Farms - General Manager Educational background Delta State University - Bachelor & Master Degree.

Graduate of Oxford High School What inspired you to take your career path?

It was a dream of mine and I was inspired by my family.

What is the favorite part of your work day?

I enjoy working with my cattle.

Volunteer/community/civic engagement Oxford Community Market and Mid-Town Farmers Market Anything else you would like people to know about you?

I’m married to my beautiful wife, Elizabeth, and a proud dad of three wonderful girls.

REED FALKNER Falkner Farms - General Manager

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20 UNDER 40 Educational background DMD What inspired you to take your career path?

I have always had a passion for serving others and being involved in the community.

What is the favorite part of your work day?

Helping people in need

SAM MORRISON Oxford Dental

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20 UNDER 40

SHA SIMPSON Director of Public Relations at the North Mississippi Regional Center Educational background Bachelors in Journalism What inspired you to take your career path?

I always had a love for writing growing up and it just evolved from there. I’ve had mentors that I looked up to that shaped me along the way.

What is the favorite part of your work day?

My favorite part of my work day is seeing the clients we serve on a daily basis.

Volunteer/community/ civic engagement One of the Founders of the Community

Collective. President Elect for the Board of United Way and I serve as a Steering Committee for Leadership Lafayette.

Anything else you would like people to know about you?

I absolutely love the community and I highly encourage all to get involved!

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20 UNDER 40 Educational background Bachelor of Fine Arts What inspired you to take your career path?

Believe it or not, my creative journey started with hopes of becoming an engineer. But, as I was standing in line at orientation, my heart led me down a different path graphic design. Creativity has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. From making music and drawings to working on cars and hand-making furniture pieces, I simply love to create.

What is the favorite part of your work day?

I love getting my hands on a physical copy of something I created on the computer, like a brochure or metal signage.

Seeing designs come to life will always be the favorite part of my work day.

Volunteer/community/ civic engagement The Hunt Marketing team has supported Love Packs, More Than a Meal and The Pantry in Oxford over the years.

Anything else you would like people to know about you?

Aside from being Creative Director at Hunt, I also design and hand-make custom signage and furniture.

Working with my hands is a nice contrast to being in front of a computer most of the day. Similarly, I also enjoy building and racing cars.

WILL MOORE Hunt Marketing, Creative Director

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RECIPES

Flavors

Fall Festival of

Try these dishes to bring a taste of fall to your table RECIPES COMPILED BY AMELIA OTT

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GROUND BEEF CABBAGE SOUP 1 pound ground beef, (85/15) 2 teaspoons kosher salt 1 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning 1 yellow onion, chopped 8 ounces tomato sauce 4 cups beef broth 4 cups cabbage, chopped 2 carrots, sliced 2 stalks celery, sliced 14 ounces diced tomatoes with garlic, basil and oregano, do not drain Add oil to a large skillet over high heat.

Then toss in the ground beef, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning and chopped onion.

Brown the beef on all sides while breaking it apart.

Once browned add the beef and onion to a stockpot.

Chop the cabbage, carrots, and celery.

Pour the beef broth, tomato sauce, cabbage, carrots, celery, and diced tomatoes into the crock pot.

Stir all the ingredients together in the slow cooker.

Cook the soup on high for 4 hours until the carrots are cooked through and tender.

APPLE CINNAMON BREAD 2 cups peeled and finely diced Honeycrisp apples, divided 3/4 cup milk 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar 2 cups all-purpose flour 2 tsp ground cinnamon, divided 1 tsp baking soda 1/2 tsp kosher salt 1/2 cup + 1 tbsp unsalted butter, room temp (use a high butterfat butter or “European style” butter for the best flavor and texture) 1/2 cup + 1 tbsp light brown sugar, packed 1/2 cup granulated sugar 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce 1 large egg 1 tsp vanilla extract Raw sugar, for topping (optional) Preheat the oven to 350F and grease the inside of a 9x13 loaf pan. Lay in a sheet of parchment paper so it covers the bottom and two long sides of the pan.

Place 1 cup of diced apples in a medium microwave-safe bowl and the other cup off to the side.

To the bowl of apples, add 1 tablespoon of butter and microwave until melted (30-60 seconds). Then toss in 1 tablespoon of brown sugar and 1 tsp of cinnamon. Set

aside.

In a measuring glass, measure the milk and stir in the vinegar. Set aside.

In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the flour, the other 1 tsp of cinnamon, baking soda and salt. Set aside.

In a large mixing bowl using a handstand mixer paddle attachment (or by hand with a wooden spoon), mix the remaining 1/2 cup brown sugar and 1/2 cup granulated sugar.

Then mix in the applesauce, egg, and vanilla.

Pour in half of the dry ingredients and mix.

Just before it’s fully incorporated, pour in the milk and vinegar mixture and stir to combine.

Then dump in the rest of the dry ingredients and mix. Just before the flour is fully mixed in, toss in the other 1 cup of apples and fold to combine.

Pour the batter into the loaf pan and spread even. Scatter the buttered cinnamon apples over the surface. Very loosely swirl them into the batter. Sprinkle with a few pinches of raw sugar (optional).

Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick in the center comes out clean with a few moist crumbs.

Allow the loaf to cool for about 45 minutes.

Then slice and enjoy while it’s still warm!

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DRUNK GHOST COCKTAIL 2 ounces Malibu coconut rum 1 ounce Vanilla Vodka 2 ounces Coconut Cream 4 ounces 7up or Sprite lemon lime soda Fill a cocktail shaker with ice Add your Malibu Rum, Vanilla Vodka, and Coconut Cream Give it a good shake until the Coconut Cream is well mixed Strain into a glass Top with lemon-lime soda Garnish with a ghost peep and enjoy!

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SAID AND DONE

M

WILD PALMS

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.

Miramar Beach, FL- Autumn is in the distance in this sun-drenched villa. Summer holds sway here, and that’s just what the trees do, sway in the wind, fanning the warm air.

While Oxford and other gridiron locales gird up for hot football in furnace-like conditions, one ponders the disappearance of seasons. It seems the atmosphere has melted into year-round summer with one week of spring and two gray periods, January and February, when the sun never shines, like Norway in the South.

As I write this, seated on a sette in a rental cottage on the beach near Destin, TV images show another paradise, Maui, going up in flames. All that heat raging, scorching all in its path.

Meanwhile here in Florida, we’re under a heat advisory, even with the Gulf breeze.

We all need a little reprieve into paradise occasionally. My old buddy Semmes Luckett of Clarksdale has fond memories of Hawaii, mixed with self-annoyance.

“As soon as I stepped off the plane at Maui, I was immediately mad at myself,” he recalls. “I was perturbed at myself for having waited so long to discover Maui, truly one of the most beautiful places on earth.”

Semmes has many distinctions, one of the most notable is his academic career at Ole Miss. In possession of a curious intellect, he has taken college classes spanning three decades: 1950s, 60s and 70s over a wide variety of courses.

A sportsman, he has been a season-ticket holder in the Big Three major sports going back 60 years.

One can imagine the trial and triumph he has been a party to over those years, from well before Archie until well after Eli. The scar tissue builds up when you bleed red and blue.

“I still get just as nervous before games as ever,” he says, now a spry 80-year-old.

Semmes enjoyed a good vacation in his traveling days from Hawaii to Mexico to New Orleans and the Gulf Coast.

He would enjoy this spot I am visiting. The water truly is emerald green and clear enough to see fish darting around. The beaches look like miles of sugar and the sun cranks up around seven and burns fiercely until 7:30 pm. On clear nights, the sun doesn’t go down without a fight, exploding into a rainbow of pinks, oranges and lavender

before finally disappearing into the humidity.

It may not be Hawaii but it will do.

As I write, in mid-August, the high season is over and the only tourists are people with toddlers, too young for school. That and a few shady characters – this is Florida, right?

Right outside my door, a man is on the phone, dressed in all black, pacing the parking lot. When I step out for some hot air, I can hear him squawking away while a metronome seems to be keeping time with him.

I soon realize the steady beat isn’t a metronome at all, but an unseen, very loud, pickleball game.

I scamper back into the cottage and a half-hour later, I step back outside and the little man is still on the phone, pacing to the beat of pickleball.

How much more Florida can you get? A sketch artist and health freaks, competing at my back door. All around me are high-rise vacation towers, sitting mostly empty. Just the scrappy little man in black and a couple of twilight pickle ballers interrupting the breeze.

Florida has a reputation for weirdness that seems well-earned. The little man in all-black is an example. He certainly isn’t ready for the beach, or for daylight, for that matter. It seems very possible he is, as they say, up to no good.

Destin’s namesake, Leonard Destin, was up to good when he sailed down from Connecticut in 1834, at age 21 with his father and brother in a second boat. Jack E. Davis’s Pulitzer Prize winning history, The Gulf – The Making of An American Sea, tells the story of how both vessels succumbed to a hurricane and only Leonard and a small boy survived.

Leonard was shipwrecked on an island with no drinking water for a week before he was rescued.

He then sailed to north Florida hoping to open a commercial fishing business, which he did.

Today, the word “Destin” connotes beautiful beaches and touristy knick knacks. Young Leonard Destin could never have envisioned what his sleepy little fishing village would become. The same can be said for the founders of Oxford if they could see the 21st Century version.

Leonard wouldn’t recognize the condominium canyons, the pickle-ballers and the jet skis.

He would, however, probably recognize the little man dressed in black.

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1

2

THE SANCTUARY ARTS FESTIVAL

4

3

The Sanctuary Arts Festival was held Auf 4-5. The Sancutary Artist Story Telling Competition was held at The Graduate on Aug 4.

1.

Jonathon Barnes and David Flautt

2.

Megan Anderson and Emily Presley

3.

Jennifer and Joe MacGown

4.

Wayne Andrews and Zoe Fitch

5.

John Carden, Brooke Alexander and Thomas Coon

6.

Pannawat Thanutok and Anna Stone

7.

Robert Saarnio and Thad Lee

5

7

6

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BEST OF OXFORD 2023 Best of Oxford 2023 was held August 24 at the Powerhouse 1.

Patrick Hudgins and Ross Hester

2.

Jessica Swindle, Mary Anna Shell and Kelly Kessinger

3.

Mallori Baker and Ivey Young

4.

Clay and Alicia Stubbs

5.

Stevi Self and Mary Solomon

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Jada Ross, Savannah Daniels and Veronica Ellinburg

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Music by Howard Smith

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Oxford Dental

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Jennifer Gregory, Samantha McCraw, Cambell Webb, Patti Smith, Kathryn Hathorne and Michelle Covington

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10. The El Charro Family 11. McKenzie Little PLLC 12. Ellen and Quentin Brewer 13. Brian and Catherine Phillips 14. Stouts Carpet 15. Matt, Nora, Murphey and Colle McKenzie 16. Christy Stearns Parker, Ansley Williams and Amelia Ott

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Marketplace Oxford Magazine • 662.234.4331

Affordable Metal Buildings Free Estimates Delivered In 2 Weeks Or Less (Depending on weather) Phillip Martin, Owner Phone: 662-2744845

Hiring: Save-A-Lot in Batesville Looking for FT experienced Meat Cutter.

PTO, and more included.

1+YR exp. req. Apply in person at 220 HWY 6 WEST Local Bank Now Hiring: Local bank is curently accepting resumes for the following position: Part Time Teller-competitive pay. Send resumes to PO Box 866 Oxford MS 38655 or email resumes63402gmail.com Alterations, Custom Curtains, Blinds, Shades, Bedding, Cushions, Dorm Decoration! Design Gallery 1529 University Ave. Oxford, MS. 38655.

Designer/Julie Coleman.

662-655-0500 JANI KING CLEANING SERVICES LOOKING FOR PT WORKERS, EVENING TIME AFTER 5PM. CONTACT RAY WADE CLEANING AT 601.573.1049.

Office Space for Lease 1250 sq. ft.

In Old Town Court behind Oby’s Restaurant Call: (662)234-2522 B & B Concrete. Est. 1949. 70 years experience.

Delivering quality readymix concrete since 1949.

662-234-7088 Lay up treasures in Heaven by texting your family and friends to go to romanroadbibleministry. com Better built portable buildings for better prices!

(662) 417-1256 H&L Underbrush, Yard Work & Much More. 662714-0132

DRIVERS WANTED Experienced CDL Class A Drivers Home Daily (Containers, Dump Trucks and Local 53 Foot) Call Jesse 662-607-3599

Professional Office Suites Off Square, 426 S. Lamar Anchorage Building Utilities, janitorial, parking included, furnished $500/ mth lease (662)816-5315 Precious Angels Home Care. Private Duty, Nonmedical, In-home care.

Caregivers, homemakers & sitters. Does your loved one need care at home?

Contact us today. 662821-6787. email: wecare@ preciousangelshomecare. org REM Mississippi is Hiring! REM Mississippi is seeking full-time and parttime employees, all shifts.

Great benefit package for full-time employees. For more information, please visit http://www.rem-ms. com/ or call 601.939.0394 Assistant Chef Needed Weekends Off M-F Position Starts in August VERY COMPETITIVE SALARY MUST HAVE EXPERIENCE AND BE DEPENDABLE Email Resume to: chef-angie@hotmail.com 5-Star Cleaning Services:Free Quotes!

•Move-in/move-out •Residential, Commercial and New Construction •Organization Call Linda Brandemuhl (920)858-1348 Oxford Housing Authority The Oxford Housing Authority is currently accepting resumes for the following position: Occupancy Specialist Information regarding job description, salary and benefits can be picked up at the offices of the Oxford

OxfordMag.com

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 The Gracious Face Health and Wellness Spa Nail Tech Needed on Saturdays. Call 706-6915772

HAWKINS HANDYMAN Lawn & Tree Removal.

24/7. Bonded & Insured.

Plumbing, Electric, Excavating, Bush Hogging, Lawn Care, Leaf Removal, Dozer Work, Gravel/Dirt Hauling, Welding Service, Trailer Repair. For your home & outdoor needs.

Oxford, MS. 662-473-8139 TRAILER WORLD Goosenecks, Equipment, Stock & Enclosed Trailers.

Mid-South’s Largest

Selection. SOUTHLAND CO. Batesville, MS 662563-9428 Water Valley Mini Storage 11800 Hwy 32 Water Valley, MS 38965 662-654-4833.

•10x10 $60.00 •10x15 $75.00 •10X20 $85.00 per month wvstorage@ protonmail.com

FREEDOM. TO BE YOU. If you think oxygen therapy means slowing down, it’s time for a welcome breath of fresh air.

Introducing the Inogen One family of portable oxygen systems. With no need for bulky tanks, each concentrator is designed to keep you active via Inogen’s Intelligent Delivery Technology.® Hours of quiet and consistent oxygen flow on a long-lasting battery charge enabling freedom of movement, whether at home or on the road. Every Inogen One meets FAA requirements for travel ensuring the freedom to be you.

• No heavy oxygen tanks • Ultra quiet operation • Lightweight and easy to use • Safe for car and air travel • Full range of options and accessories • FAA approved and clinically validated

Call 1-877-460-0206 for a free consultation.

Whether you are home or away, protect what matters most from unexpected power outages with a Generac Home Standby Generator.

MKT-P0240

FREE

7-Year Extended Warranty* A $735 Value!

$0 MONEY DOWN + LOW MONTHLY PAYMENT OPTIONS

REQUEST A FREE QUOTE

CALL NOW BEFORE THE NEXT POWER OUTAGE

(205) 484-9766

*To qualify, consumers must request a quote, purchase, install and activate the generator with a participating dealer. Call for a full list of terms and conditions.

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CAMP-0

Sports injuries knocking you off your game?

Campbell Clinic is the go-to orthopaedic provider for athletes of all ages and skill levels. When you’re hurt, we’re the team that will get you back to your best.

Our sports medicine specialists create personalized treatment plans for a wide range of conditions, including:

• ACL, LCL, and PCL injuries • Sprains and strains • Shoulder dislocation and separation • Knee spurs

• Hip arthritis, pain, and tears • Biceps tendon rupture • Runner’s knee • Tennis/golf elbow And more

Walk-ins welcome.

Injuries can happen at any time. That’s why Campbell Clinic Oxford offers walk-in care services. No appointment needed!

Monday – Friday 7:30a.m. – 4p.m.

OxfordMag.com 73 2608 S. Lamar Blvd., Suite 102 Oxford, MS 38655 | 901.759.3111 | CampbellClinicOxford.com

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