Picayune Living, summer 2020

Windham Home:

Unassuming function Modern Quilting with

local artist Dorit Pittman

Summer 2020

PICAYUNE

www.hcapicayune.com

BLENDED PROGRAM Underlying Health Issues? _______________________ Does Covid-19 have your family concerned about returning to traditional school? _______________________ Has your child thrived as a remote learner?

HERITAGE BLENDED PROGRAM OUR PROGRAM

• Flexible schedule to allow for socially distant testing and instruction, travel with family, or participation in highcommitment athletic or artistic endeavors.

• Robust curriculum, mastery-based approach

OUR STUDENTS

• Move at their own pace making learning both deeper and more enjoyable.

• Advance Placement and Dual Enrollment courses facilitate highly motivated students earning college credits and their high school diploma concurrently.

OUR STAFF

• Academic coaches monitor student progress and intervene as necessary to keep student progress and achievement on track • Content area specialists with deep subject matter expertise available as needed.

GRADES 3-9 • LIMITED SEATS AVAILABLE 21 Richardson Road • Picayune, MS 39466 601-215-6327

Providing Friends & Neighbors with Exceptional Eye Care Since 1999 We believe our patients are our friends and want them to look great and have superior vision.

Our offices are dedicated to serving our patients with the most comprehensive eye care available.

We offer the latest in lens technology, an incredible selection of frames, and strive for exceptional customer service.

20

20

Referral 20/20 Program Refer a friend/family member and you BOTH receive a $20 credit Call us for details!

Advanced Eyecare is proud to be locally owned and operated by Dr. Kraig Stasney.

www.idoc.me Most Insurance Accepted

2 LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU Picayune, MS 5 Alex Place • Off Hwy 43 601-799-0707

Pearl River, LA 64185 Hwy 41 • Ste. B 985-250-8000

W D I Y CABINET AND GRANITE

Call Today for Your FREE Estimate!

48 Colors to Choose From Selection of Sinks Monday– Saturday 9 Am – 5PM

4 SUMMER 2020 SPRING 2020

CABINETS

• NO Particle Board • Dove Tall Drawers • Ball Bearing Drawers Slides • In Stock (no waiting) • Full Serivce or DIY • Soft Touch Close

EDITOR’S LETTER ELCOME

By J E RE M Y PI T TA R I

Welcome to the newest edition of Picayune Living. In this publication readers will find stories that may spark a more creative summer, or inspire others to take up a hobby outdoors.

If relaxing outdoors with a friend or member of the family sounds like a good way to spend a day, then fishing is worth looking in to. In these pages a father and son share their story about how fishing has not only given them an outlet to bond, but more importantly a platform to share life lessons.

For a low impact workout, consider taking up kayaking. It provides a method to get on the water while also getting some exercise and also a new way to try to catch some fish.

Anyone who may have a green thumb will be interested in our gardening feature.

Growing fruits and vegetables is a great way to not only pass the time, but also produces fresh food that is readily available right at home.

If a more expressive form of exercise is more of interest, then check out this edition’s story about

the art of dance. Unlike more structured dance regimens, a local dance studio encourages people to be more expressive instead of following strict movement sets.

Creating unique pieces of art from everyday things is a talent not many people possess.

But for one local artist, she takes old clothing and uses the material to create unique quilts that don’t conform to more traditional methods of quilting. Her background also includes painting, doll making and various other forms of art.

This edition’s featured home is a historic structure in the heart of Pearl River County’s seat.

The 100-year-old home has plenty of history, and a lot of modern amenities to fall in love with.

It’s the home of Alicia and Jarrett Windham, who share the abode with their two children and Jarrett’s parents.

A pool, large adjacent pool house, several gas powered fireplaces and some historic touches make it a unique place to call home.

We hope this edition of Picayune Living provides months of entertainment.

O RT H O PA E DI C CA RE I N P IC A Y U NE

FROM SOUTHERN BONE AND JOINT

As the area’s source for comprehensive orthopaedic care, Southern Bone and Joint’s board-certified physicians are leaders, innovators and specialists in their fields.

From imaging and diagnosis, to surgery and rehabilitation, Southern Bone and Joint features the knowledge and technology to help you feel whole again.

To make your appointment - no referral needed, please call 601.358.9692 and request our Picayune Clinic.

SOUTHERN

BONE & JOINT SPECIALISTS, P.A.

Keith Melancon, M.D. General Orthopaedics

southernboneandjoint.com 128 Highland Parkway, Suite 100 At the Highland Community Hospital Picayune, MS 39466 | 601.358.9692

CONTE NTS

8 JOYS OF DANCE: With dance teacher Kara Fleming.

12 FATHER AND SON: Share the love of fishing.

16 GARDENING: Lenore Ladner shows you how to garden.

20 WINDHAM HOUSE: Beautiful, functional and historic.

ON THE COVER Windham home’s history Photo by Jeremy Pittari

DAN PHELAN Publisher

JEREMY PITTARI Associate Publisher

KIM GERALD Graphic Design

MAGGIE STOLZ Advertising Sales

CATHY COOK Writer

AUSTIN LADNER Advertising Sales JONATHAN MITCHELL Writer

Free copies of Picayune Living magazine are available at these fine establishments:

ALSO INSIDE:

Forever Fabulous, Melinda’s Fine Gifts, Holiday Inn Express, MS Welcome Center, Moore Chiropractic Clinic, Scooters, Senior Center of South MS, Phillips Building Supply, City Rexall Drugs, Paul’s Pastry Shop, Apple’s LTD, James Furniture, Advanced Eyecare, Penley Family Dentistry, Picayune Drug, Picayune Chiropractic, Poplarville Dental Clinic, Glass Porch, Picayune Veterinary Clinic, Greater Picayune Area Chamber of Commerce, and the office of the Picayune Item.

INFORMATION: Picayune Living is published four times per year

by Picayune Newsmedia, LLC. All content is subject to copyright.

POSTMASTER: Please send any changes of address or undeliverable information attn: Picayune Item, P.O. 580, Picayune, MS 39466

6 6 SPRING 2020

28 OUT & ABOUT

See who’s attending the city’s premier events.

30 KAYAK CRUISIN’ Learn about the joys of being on the water in a small craft.

24 MODERN QUILTING: Dorit Pittman finds art in everything she does.

34 WHY I LOVE PICAYUNE

By Blaine LaFontaine

Are Termites Silently Destroying Your Home?

FREE TERMITE INSPECTION AND PEST EVALUATION Pearl River County’s only funeral home with a crematory and the only privately owned Perpetual Care Cemetery & Mausoleum in the county.

Full Traditional Service • One Day Service • Graveside Service Cremation with Traditional Service with Viewing Cremation with Memorial Service • Direct Cremation Prepaid Funerals - Prearranged Funerals Life Insurance Caring, Licensed Professional Staff Locally owned and operated since 1976 815 South Haugh Avenue, Picayune, MS

www.picayunefuneral.com 601-798-5238

10% OFF *

TERMITE TREATMENT *CALL FOR DETAILS EXPIRES 9/23/20 601-749-2466

Don’t wait until it’s too late.

MEMBER

MISSISSIPPI

PEST CONTROL ASSOCIATION

601-749-2466 www.spenceservices.com 705 MEMORIAL BLVD. PICAYUNE, MS 39466

Contact us today for guaranteed effective solutions to all types of problem pests.

Banking for the next decade

That’s a good thing.

FREE CHECKING WITH REWARDS NO-ANNUAL-FEE, LOW-RATE CREDIT CARDS FREE ONLINE AND MOBILE BANKING Want in on a secret? You don’t have to pay big-bank fees for the convenience you want. At Keesler Federal, you get an agile, innovative financial partner that delivers more value and the service you deserve!

2270 Highway 43 South, Picayune, MS. Federally Insured by NCUA Membership and credit eligibility required.

PICAYUNELIVING.COM 7

Finding joy in the simple aspects of dance

Kara Fleming knows dance is an art form that utilizes smooth movements, sharp angles and mind-blowing contortions, but when teaching it she makes sure her students understand another important aspect of dance;self-expression.

For the past 15 years Fleming has helped dancers who wanted to continue pursuing their passion after high school find a community.

When dance has been part of a person’s life for years, quitting abruptly can leave a hole where a source of joy once resided.

“We started seeing a trend where we had girls who came back to dance and say, ‘I’m not done. I’m not ready for this to be over,’” Fleming said.

The classes take place several times a week at Leisha’s Dance Studio, owned by Fleming’s sister Leisha Fleming Waguespack.

Studio training differs greatly from the instruction dancers receive from being part of a high school’s dance team.

On a team, the athletes are expected to adhere to strict guidelines and mimic each other’s movements to present the audience with a replicated image.

8 SUMMER 2020 8 SPRING 2020

However, in studio dance the rhythm of movement is far more free flowing, allowing dancers to put more of their personal flair into the performance.

Dancers are also taught a variety of forms of the art when they have access to instructors who know what they’re talking about to guide them.

“In studio dance you work on technique. You ground things in ballet and working across the floor, plus having a skilled instructor give you that one-onone feedback to improve,” Fleming said.

Fleming’s class not only serves as way for dancers to express themselves, but also benefits the athlete’s physical and mental health.

The desire to be the best in a specific field and outwork competitors are good principles to stand on, but Fleming said when a person has too narrow a focus they lose sight of the reasons why they got started in the first place.

“Just having an outlet of something you enjoy personally in your life is so important because people are so driven to achieve and work we forget to enjoy things too,” Fleming said.

For some, dance is a lifelong passion that can be

D ISCOV ERY

By JONAT H A N M I T CHE L L

practiced for decades.

Dancers may never get tired of perfecting a routine, or learning a new movement, so the beauty of dance is lasting because it can be practiced for as long a person is physically capable.

The longevity of the art form is something that draws Fleming and others to dance, and it’s an aspect Fleming emphasizes to her students.

“We always tell them to hang on and do it as long as you’re able to because it’s so important to maintain activities that are dear to your heart, that you enjoy and that give you a physical outlet,” Fleming said.

Not only does the training dancers receive at a studio help with their form and routine, it also serves as a way to mold them into better people.

Intrinsic aspects of dance like confidence, kindness, respect, teamwork, responsibility are just some of the positive attributes learned while dancing, all of which help that individual later in life.

They’re beneficial not only for time spent on stage, but also time spent with family, friends, coworkers and any other interaction.

“I’m training humans not just dancers. There’s a million things that go into it, so what matters to us is that we are being good role models and trying to make them be the best person they can be in life,” Fleming said.

The studio also serves as a sanctuary.

No matter what’s going on in the outside world, dance can be an avenue of escape.

For Fleming and her students nothing outside the studio’s walls matter when the lights are bright and it’s time to get to work.

“I would say that the quickest way to get happy is to get moving, be around people and do something you enjoy. You can’t help but forget about your worries when you turn on the music and start to dance,” Fleming said.

Fleming said it doesn’t take much convincing for a person to begin dancing.

“I feel like if anybody comes through the door and they allow themselves to be lost in the moment, the music and the movement then I wouldn’t’ have to pitch for them to come in. They’ll get it,” Fleming said.

PICAYUNELIVING.COM 9 PICAYUNELIVING.COM 9

10 SPRING 2020 10 SUMMER 2020

At Penley Family Dentistry, we believe our patients should be treated with care and concern.

Adrienne Varnado Penley, DMD

Along with creating beautiful smiles for the entire family, we offer these unique services: • Same Day Crowns • Nitrous Oxide • TMJ Therapy • Adult Braces & Cosmetic Botox • Oral Conscious • Implants Sedation

The first step toward a beautiful, healthy smile is to schedule an appointment.

Accepting New Patients CALL TODAY 601-749-9330

6480 Hwy. 11N Carriere, MS 39426

601-749-9330

We offer Financing, Accept Insurance and are a CHIPS Provider www.penleyfamilydentistry.com

PICAYUNELIVING.COM 11

Father and son bond through fishing 12 SUMMER 2020 12 SPRING 2020

SP O R T S

PICAYUNELIVING.COM 33

By JONAT H A N M I TCH EL L

Insects meandered through the humid air while bird song overlapped with the gentle lapping of water as Brandon and Carson Craft, father and son, prepared for a session of fishing.

The two have been fishing together since Carson was an infant, which mirrored his father’s own upbringing of being taught how to fish at a young age by his grandfather.

There was no tournament taking place or money on the line as the two began casting, but make no mistake, the session wasn’t just about relaxing together.

“There aren’t many sports where you can actually compete with your kids and this is one of them. Every time we go fishing it’s a competition. Whoever doesn’t catch more is going to get some ribbing,” Brandon Craft said.

Part of the appeal of fishing for the Crafts is the accessibility of the sport.

New anglers can buy a cheap rod and reel to get started, then over time work on their skills and improve.

Expensive gear is available, but for the novice fishermen getting into the sport isn’t especially difficult or costly.

Not only are there few financial barriers in fishing, but there are also very few physical factors that can limit a person interested in picking up fishing.

People young, old and those with varying physical attributes can fish, which is partly why Carson began competitive fishing in the first place.

“I was always small so high school sports never clicked with me, but fishing has always been something I can do. It’s always been something that had my interest and it always will,” Carson Craft said.

Brandon Craft said his son would spend countless hours in the backyard just practicing his casting and that work ethic was beneficial when the duo took part in local fishing tournaments.

Sometimes the competitions include a financial prize, which leads to an emphasis on the angler’s ability to factor in all aspects of the sport to emerge victorious.

“There’s something different you have to figure out (each time) to make the fish bite and that’s what makes it fun, and also what will drive you crazy. You can go one day and catch them, and then you can go to the

same spot the very next day and it’s totally different,” Brandon Craft said.

However, during the more laid back fishing sessions the father and son duo enjoy their time with one another.

Both anglers enjoy the outdoors, so spending time together in nature can lead to some introspective moments.

“There are a lot of people who come out of the house and just hear car horns in traffic, but they don’t hear the bugs flying or birds chipping. They don’t have time to think to themselves or figure stuff out,” Carson Craft said.

Fishing serves as an escape for both father and son, and the time alone with their thoughts is hard to find in the hustle and bustle of daily life.

The duo learned how to balance the intense competitive environment with more nonchalant, relaxed fishing opportunities.

However, more often than not the fishermen’s inner competitiveness surfaces and then it’s a battle of wits, skill and patience to see who catches more.

“I’m competitive and I got that from him.

I want to be the best at what I do, no matter what I do. If I couldn’t do that with sports I can definitely do that with fishing because it’s about the time and practice you put in,” Carson Craft said.

At the end of the day, fishing brings the pair closer together.

It’s a bonding mechanism and allows the father and son to connect on a deeper level.

The connection between the two isn’t taken for granted and fishing helps provide the foundation on which the relationship is built.

Fishing is a passion that has been passed down from generation to generation in the Craft household, and that is expected to continue.

Carson Craft understands the importance of fishing and how it joins him with his father and grandfather before him.

The experience is vital and Carson Craft understands its value.

“A lot of kids aren’t as blessed to have a dad to take them fishing. It’s something we can always agree on,” Carson Craft said.

“There are a lot of times where parents and kids can’t connect, but he and I can always connect with fishing, always,” Brandon Craft said.

PICAYUNELIVING.COM 13 PICAYUNELIVING.COM 13

14 SPRING 2020 14 SUMMER 2020

Preserving Yesterday’s Memories Collectibles and Books

by Local Authors Make Great Gifts!

PICAYUNELIVING.COM 15

Good Gardening

Lenore Ladner, a Poplarville resident and Master Gardner, has had a green thumb all her life.

Ladner’s home is surrounded by gardens full of everything from delicate flowers to homegrown okra.

She said gardening is relaxing.

“It’s just very soothing,” Ladner said. “You kinda lose yourself in it. You know? I love having my hands in the soil.”

Some of the biggest gardening influences in Ladner’s life include her dad, aunt and grandmother.

Ladner said her aunt and

16 SUMMER 2020 16 SPRING 2020

grandmother taught her a lot of what she knows about gardening.

Though she has been gardening since she was very young, Ladner joined the Pearl River County Master Gardeners in 2011.

“We learn so much from each other,” Ladner said. “We’re really like a big family.”

Ladner said the Master Gardeners help each other, exchange plants and provide support for one another.

Though Ladner loves to grow flowers the most, she said one of her favorite things to grow in her

vegetable garden is tomatoes, though growing them can be tricky.

“They’re very temperamental,” she said. “I like peppers too because they’re easy.”

It’s no secret that gardening can be challenging, and Ladner said one of her biggest challenges is the unpredictable and oftentimes uncooperative Mississippi weather.

Ladner said weather and dryness are the biggest challenges when it comes to her garden because she does not have an

LI FE LE SSO NS

By L AU REL T HR A I L K I L L

irrigation system. Insects and other pests can be a problem too.

“You have to stay on top of that,” Ladner said.

Though gardening comes with unique challenges, Ladner said it is rewarding.

“I love sharing whatever I grow,” Ladner said. “I usually just give them away.”

She enjoys sharing the bounty of her gardens by giving homegrown vegetables to people she knows and people in the community.

One of her best tips for beginner gardeners is to take advantage

of the resources available on the Internet.

“There is so much online help,” Ladner said. “YouTube has so many videos.”

Just about anything a beginning gardener would need to know about growing vegetables can be found with a simple search engine.

She also suggested contacting the county extension agent with questions about gardening.

As a result of the most recent pandemic, many people in the community have taken up gardening to fill the extra spare

time and avoid unnecessary trips to the store for food that they could be growing at home.

“I think it’s been great, Ladner said. “I think people are realizing you can grow a lot of your own stuff. You don’t have to go to the store and buy it or depend on others.” She said one of the best benefits of growing food is knowing how fresh it is as opposed to simply guessing when it comes to produce at the grocery store.

“Just knowing that you grew it makes it taste a lot better too,” Ladner said.

PICAYUNELIVING.COM 17 PICAYUNELIVING.COM 17

18 18 SPRING 2020

PJ Williamson Ins Agcy, Inc.

Providing Insurance and Financial Services

Place Your Trust in Me For all Your Insurance Needs PJ Williamson, Agent 601 Highway 11 South Picayune, MS 39466-5378 601-889-5900 (ofc) 601-889-5999 (fax)

PICAYUNELIVING.COM 19

Windham Home: Historic 20 SUMMER 2020 20 SPRING 2020

H OM E SW EE T H OM E

By J EREM Y PI T TA RI

Along West Michigan Street in Poplarville is a string of historic homes, many of which contain surprises that a passerby would never assume are behind the front doors.

“When you look at the house from the front it looks small, but when you come in it keeps going,” Jarrett Windham said.

From the street, the home of Alicia and Jarrett Windham is relatively unassuming. It’s seemingly small white frontage belies the true amenities housed within.

Jarrett said that the 100-year-old home and it’s 3,700 square feet is perfect for his family and offers many things he would have never expected for a home in the middle of Poplarville. The family even added a pool and pool house so his parents can live close by.

The pool and adjacent pool house were added in 2015 and 2016. That addition gave his parents, Bill and Brenda, about 1,800 of square feet of privacy that features two bedrooms, and three bathrooms. One of those pool house bathrooms opens to the exterior of the home to accommodate family and visitors who are using the pool. The arrangement of being close to Jarrett allows Brenda to provide Bill the care he needs during his retirement years and they get to see Jarrett and Alicia’s children, Karthie and Aubrey, daily.

Jarrett said that his research showed that the first mortgage on the home was approved in 1920, meaning his home reached centennial status this year.

Purchased by the Windham family in 2013 so Jarrett could be closer to his job with the Poplarville School District, the home has undergone other renovations since they took ownership, and more are planned.

Initial renovations included just about everything in the home except for the kitchen and bathrooms. Taking ownership of the home also entailed calling a specialist from Florida to remove a wasp nest the size of a dining room table that had five queens, Jarrett said.

“It came with a lot of quirks but it’s all done now,” Jarrett said.

Alicia said plans are in the works to update the three full bathrooms and kitchen soon.

What used to be an old barn has been renovated into a three-car carport, one spot of which is reserved for the family’s restored classic truck.

The home sits on two acres in the middle of town and features four bedrooms, two of which are upstairs. The upstairs bedrooms are reserved for the children, and are connected via a large playroom in the center of the second floor.

Downstairs are the master and guest bedrooms, complete with other amenities such as a mudroom, sunroom, large dining area and living room. Jarrett said the sunroom is one of his favorite places in the home, but the family spends a majority of their time in the mudroom.

Fireplaces in the home were previously coal burning, but have since been converted to gas. Jarrett said an old coal barn still stands on the property, and at times he or the children come across pieces of coal in the yard.

As a history teacher, the storied history of his home appeals to Jarrett and Alicia, who works in the medical field.

PICAYUNELIVING.COM 21 PICAYUNELIVING.COM 21

22 SPRING 2020 22 SUMMER 2020

PICAYUNELIVING.COM 23

Quilting is traditionally an exercise in precision with traditional patterns full of sharp angles and neatly aligned corners. Dorit Pittman does not follow patterns. Her modern quilts are an act of improvisation.

Other quilters she talks to say they use blocks of precisely measured fabric—strips of material that are only one fourteenth or one sixteenth of an inch wide.

“I can’t wrap my head around that,” said Pittman.

Pittman said she would quilt that way if she could, but she’s never been one for precision.

Instead of beginning with a pattern, she starts with fabrics.

Like many quilters, she constantly collects fabrics, often visiting Goodwill to buy items of clothing that are in the color of the day for 50 cents a piece. She places fabric swatches, whether from thrift store finds or a favorite modernist designer, on a board next to each other, to see what the different colors and patterns might inspire.

“I try not to overthink,” said Pittman.

Pittman does not plan ahead. For many of her modernist creations, she sews colorful fabric strips together, improvising what fabric will come next. Then she assembles them with white fabric to create a 24 SUMMER 2020 24 SPRING 2020

quilt with lots of open spaces for the eye to move across. In one quilt displayed in her home, Pittman has colorful lines of fabric set in white with colorful fabric circles assembled from different pieces.

The circles are pieced together, because appliques take too long for Pittman.

One of her boldest quilts is made up of red lines, and white, beige and off-white rectangles.

“I got really brave and tried to approach this like a painting,” she said.

The quilting, the stitches that keep the layers of a quilt together, runs vertically or horizontally to keep the viewer’s eye moving through the rectangular shapes.

Her quilting is varied, in small horizontal lines on one block and widely spaced vertical lines on the next. The white and off-white fabrics offer subtle color shifts, like shading in a painting.

Pittman has made quilts using traditional patterns and hand quilting.

“You have to know how to paint realistically, before you paint abstract,” she said.

Improvising quilt patterns is Pittman’s most recent medium for creative expression, but she knows about abstract and realistic painting.

s

.

LOCAL ARTIST

By C ATH Y COOK

Modern Quilting She previously sold her paintings in the French Quarter, she holds a masters in art education and she used to have an art school in New Orleans called Mississippi Art Works.

She painted watercolor portraits of musicians, realistic apples, asparagus at large scale, a glass of “Midnight Tea” with lemon, small acrylic paintings of famous New Orleans scenery that would please tourists, a bag of Community Coffee and a fresh cup of coffee, and abstract images that pleased her.

She switched mediums more than once, moving through different styles of painting and even creating art dolls.

Pittman has been making art since she was 12-years-old. She attended a High School of Art and Design in New York and studied painting, printmaking and sculpture at Texas A&M. Worried about finding a career in the art world, Pittman got her first master’s degree in counseling and worked in human resources.

“I was just miserable,” she said.

She changed course to get her masters in art education, where she worked in yet another medium making bronze sculptures and wax figures. One of her friends who also paints convinced Pittman to sell her work in the French Quarter, which she did for 15 years.

“And then Katrina hit and it was all over,” she said.

Pittman relocated to Derby, bought goats and began selling goat milk soap. The farmer’s market circuit was not so different from craft shows, said Pittman.

She sold her soap business in 2014 and currently focuses on experimental gardening and quilting.

“I get bored easy, so change courses midstream,” said Pittman.

Pittman’s frequent medium changes also had to do with space. When she had a small studio, she painted watercolors. When she pursued her masters, she sculpted in the university’s large art studios.

“I always liked dealing with fabrics. I liked tactile things—that was always there, but I felt like that was a woman’s craft and I wanted to be a quote, ‘serious artist.’”

The art dolls she created were viewed as dolls and not art, so she moved to painting. But Pittman no longer needs to worry about what will or won’t sell.

A spot on her living room wall is filled with fabric swatches sewn together. Some have small prints of her paintings placed in the center.

The pieces of fabric are vignettes, ideas for new creations currently percolating, waiting for her improvisational hand.

PICAYUNELIVING.COM 25 PICAYUNELIVING.COM 25

PICAYUNE

DRUG COMPANY

Compounding Specialists Family Owned with Personal Service!

We are Your Compounding Specialists Inside & Curbside Service Assistance!

Durable Medical Equipment Available. Call for Details.

ORDER REFILLS FROM YOUR PHONE! Look for this icon on your app store: Have your prescription number ready to get started!

Download the

App today!

• View your personal profile • Ask questions • Send insurance updates • Set-up your prescription for auto refill

NEED HELP? ASK US HOW!

ANDREW L. FAILLA • SCOTT SUHOR EMILY CALONGNE • BJ GERACI Pharmacists

TWO LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU!

MAIN LOCATION: 110 Hwy. 11 North, Picayune, MS • 601-798-4846

NORTH LOCATION: (With Drive-Thru) 3310 Hwy. 11 North, Picayune, MS • 601-798-6565

www.picayunedrug.com

26 SPRING 2020 26 SUMMER 2020

PICAYUNELIVING.COM 27

OUT & ABOUT

1

By C ATH Y COOK

2

ARBORETUM PLANT SALE: Each year members of the community purchase beautiful native plants from the Crosby Arboretum.

1. From left are Jackson, Eric and Danielle Perez.

2. Peggy Page.

3. From left are Pat Drackett, Carolyn and Don Abaunza.

3

28 SUMMER 2020 28 SUMMER SPRING 2020 28 2020

OUT & ABOUT

1

By C ATH Y COOK

2

DAUGHTERS OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION MEETING

Members of the local chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution meet at the local library where they issue scholarships to local students.

1. From left are Ethel Mae Furr, Jane Chaffin and Anne Ulerich.

2. From left are Juanita Gex and Dorothy Brooks.

3. From left are Juanita Gex, Patricia Bolar, Keena Jackson, Brooke Ladner and Virginia Mitchell.

3

PICAYUNELIVING.COM 29 PICAYUNELIVING.COM 29

FIT AND FUN

By C ATH Y COOK

Kayak Cruisin’

30 SPRING 2020

Kayaking can be a peaceful hobby for people of all ages.

Sheila James-Fletcher kayaked as a child and took the hobby up again in November to connect with her grandchildren.

“I just thought it was a fun thing from my past that they would enjoy, but I didn’t expect to develop a passion for it,” she said.

Kayaking has been perfect in recent times because it is a socially distanced outdoor activity.

Fletcher loves the adventure of visiting new kayaking spots that she has never been before.

“I really enjoyed the Hobolochitto because it’s local. I’ve been here for 25 years and had never been on it. There was a current that you had to really overcome. There’s lots of pretty scenery,” said Fletcher.

She documents her journey in photos and likes to seek out areas heavy in beautiful plants like duckweed or cypress.

“Every place we go is so beautiful and different in its own way,” she said. “For me it’s really exciting to go to a new location as long as they’re safe.”

For Katrina Clark and Lionel Clark kayaking offers an opportunity to find tranquility on the water. The couple enjoy kayak fishing together and can stay out for three or four hours if the fish are biting.

Instead of a honeymoon, the couple bought each other fishing kayaks. Katrina named her kayak “honeymoon.”

“I liked to joke that I could go on a honeymoon with my husband any time.”

The advantage to kayak fishing is the boat can go into more shallow areas, said Katrina. The drawback is that larger fish will not fit in the kayak.

“You’re not going to throw a four foot long alligator gar in your kayak,” said Lionel.

When kayaking, the Clarks bring a minimal amount of fishing gear, because space is at a premium.

The activity is excellent for the whole family. The couple likes to take their teen daughter out on the water.

“It gives her a sense of independence,” said Lionel.

The activity can build confidence and self-assurance, he said, because in a kayak a teen or child is responsible for their own boat.

“I think it helps them overcome fear too,” said Fletcher.

Once her grandchildren were in a kayak for a few minutes they were comfortable forging ahead of the group, said Fletcher.

Safety is key to ensure kayaking is fun. Before making a kayaking trip, Fletcher and her husband visit the launch to see if the location is appropriate. They check the weather and make sure to come with a well-packed boat. Her kayak is well stocked with sunscreen, drinking water and a life vest.

She looks at maps ahead of a paddling journey to make sure she won’t get lost and checks to make sure it is legal to kayak in the area. Fletcher also talks with other kayakers who have paddled in the area before.

Before putting a boat in the water, she makes sure the waters will not be too swift and that the wind is not expected to kick up. Kayaking in wind over 15 mph is very challenging, she said. Fletcher also keeps an eye out for other boaters.

“You don’t want to be swamped because of an inconsiderate boater or someone that doesn’t see you,” she said.

Kayaking offers good exercise and a chance to connect with nature, but even more appealing is the opportunity for adventure.

“There’s a freedom about it, adventure because you never know what you’re going to come across,” said Fletcher.

Sometimes while kayaking in Mississippi and Louisiana waters she spots alligators, but alligators tend to leave kayakers alone if they aren’t provoked, she said.

For her next adventure, Fletcher hopes to take some watercolor paints to paint while she’s on the water.

PICAYUNELIVING.COM 31

32 SPRING 2020 32 SUMMER 2020

OUT & ABOUT

By C ATH Y COOK

1

2

SPCA OPEN HOUSE: Pearl River County resi-

dents paid a visit to the local animal shelter to show support or adopt a new friend during the most recent open house.

1. Layla Harris.

2. From left are Amanda Stockstill and Taylor Arens.

3. From left are Dara Hooper, Judy Wheaton and Nancy Saucier.

3

PICAYUNELIVING.COM 33

WHY I LOVE PICAYUNE

BY BL AINE L AFONTAINE

Blaine LaFontaine

My first six months working in Pearl River County has brought challenges as we have navigated through some unprecedented times. However, I believe it is important to share my perspective on what makes Pearl River County unique.

Pearl River County has a wealth of assets with its culture, people and history. As I have spent countless occasions speaking with our elected leaders and our residents, the one constant I found is a desire for growth and progress.

We are full of opportunity. Our efforts over these last few months were focused on long-term growth to benefit future generations. As we try to establish plans, programs and projects our purpose is to capture better jobs, wages and tax base to benefit our children and grandchildren. The global and national economy is evolving, but I believe Pearl River County has the opportunity and assets to be a county that

Commitment to community is one of our core values.

Bank Plus is committed to building strong communities throughout Mississippi by improving quality of life and making a positive difference where we live & work.

BankPlus.net

34 SPRING 2020 34 SUMMER 2020

continues to grow.

We are a county full of assets and untapped potential. Pearl River has an abundance of natural resources with land and water, a major interstate and rail system, historic downtowns, the state’s oldest and most affordable college, an existing successful public education system, and close proximity to a regional economic engine with Stennis Space Center.

Stennis Space Center is forecasted to continue growth and investment in the aerospace and defense sectors that should provide Pearl River County with opportunity as long as we are prepared. The college is among the fastest growing in the state in enrollment and is emerging as a regional leader in workforce development. We have several top-rated public-school districts that are committed to working together. The existing downtown festivals and small businesses combined with historic buildings provide us with an existing asset that we can continue to develop programs to encourage density and create a more vibrant area to attract new investment and tourism.

We have the best people. In my brief tenure, I have experienced the most hospitality. The community is rich in faith, resiliency and hard work. These qualities are important to the long-term success of any community, but it is already rooted in the fabric of Pearl River County. Whether I visit PJ’s Coffee Shop in Picayune or Main Street Coffee Co. in Poplarville, I am always greeted with fellowship and good conversation. Someone told me initially, they believed Pearl River County reminded them of a “Hallmark” movie, and I believe it is important we continue to maintain that quality.

Pearl River County currently has the largest workforce for Stennis Space Center, with over 30% of its workforce choosing to reside in Pearl River County. We have a highly skilled and educated workforce. We have leaders who are compassionate, empathetic and committed to the betterment of our community across the county. Our local partners and volunteers such as our Chambers of Commerce, Main Street Association and our non-profits all put in countless hours to seek funds and embrace community development programs for the betterment of our county.

Why do I love Pearl River County?

We are a county full of opportunity, assets, and people that make us unique. In a nation divided, I believe Pearl River County is united and will emerge stronger and better in the years ahead.

Roy Penton, Amanda Hayes, Myriah Schumate, Frank Bonano, Taylor Fremin, Kymetria Jackson, Keith Henry, Paul Pichon, David McCaskell, Diego Delgado, Scott Landry, Joey Miciello, Tré Pitts, Harvey Bernard, Sarah Kerry, Brandin Andrews, Anicet Vicknair, Bob Cooper.

About Us Mossy Will: Beat Anyone’s Price We are Locally Owned We are Locally Operated

Make Your Pick...

NISSAN NE of

PICAYU

SHOP 24 HOURS! • 7 DAYS A WEEK! www.mossysuperstore.com WE MAKE THE CAR BUYING EXPERIENCE FAST & EASY!

Call Mossy:

601.798.7575 YOUR SATISFACTION IS ALWAYS OUR #1 PRIORITY

241 Frontage Road Picayune, MS 39466

WHY

Choose Us? Our family-owned dealership has helped drivers from across the region find their dream car for over 11 years. Here you will find an incredible selection of new, used and certified pre-owned Nissan vehicles, including the Rogue, Sentra, Altima and Titan.

We invite you to explore our complete inventory online 24/7 or stop by and see all that we have to offer with a visit to our beautiful Picayune, MS location.

In addition to our large inventory, we also have a dedicated service center and body shop on site to serve you better. There our team of Nissan factory trained and certified master service technicians work on all vehicle makes and models. From routine oil changes to complicated engine overhauls, our team does it all.

Allow us to show you just how easy it is to shop for, service and finance your dream car at Nissan of Picayune. See for yourself why drivers from Picayune, Slidell, Carriere and Gulfport choose for all their automotive needs. From all of us at Nissan of Picayune, we look forward to meeting you!

Sammy Galaforo, Laura Barnes, Darian Smith, Jesse Woody, Tana Cochran, Courtney Johnson, Collin Galaforo, Charissa Galaforo, Christopher McKay, Mallory Montreuil, Chris Jochum.

Make your pick... Nissan of Picayune!

239 Frontage Road | Picayune, MS 39466 | 601.889.5454

www.nissanofpicayune.com

PICAYUNELIVING.COM 35

All types of Metal Roofing Panels in Color!

GALVALUME 29G IN STOCK 8’ • 10’ • 12’ • 14’ • 16’ AVAILABLE TO ORDER 29 G and 26 G In 19 colors and lengths from 3’ to 42’ customized for all your building needs!

BE PREPARED FOR HUSQVARNA YARD TRACTOR HURRICANE SEASON 42” #YTH 18542

PHILLIPSMETAL PRODUCTS 29g Galvanized In Stock Custom Order Colors

3 Tab & Architectural Shingles

15# Felt

Large Selection of Generac & CAT Generators

HUSQVARNA ZERO TURN TRACTOR #MZ 61

30# Felt METAL BUILDINGS & POLE BARN KITS CUSTOMIZED FOR YOU!

• Genie Boom • Scissor Lift • John Deere Tractor • Kubota Tractor Dumpster • 6” Ditch Witch • 6’ and 8” Auger • JCB Bobcat Excavators • Sky Track • MUCH MORE!

Beat the Heat with Cool Air Conditioning!