April 2015

Town & Gown April 2015

Kentucky Derby Fashions What’s new with Katie Heckel Cotton District Arts Festival

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April 2015

Gallery 106 Residential Condominiums for Sale

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Coming July 2015

7 Single Family Homes 3 & 4 Bedroom Floor Plans Available South Montgomery at Yellow Jacket Drive Open Layout, Granite Counters, Stainless Steel Appliances, Wood Floors, Private Porches and Patios, Two Car Garages

In this Issue: 18 RafikiFriends: Catching Up with Katie Heckel 22 Cotton District Arts Festival 27 Spring Cleaning 31 Aberdeen Pilgrimage 34 Columbus Pilgrimage 37 JA Girl Talk 40 Made in Mississippi: Henry Day Sculptures 50 The Historic Oak Hill Inn 58 Fashion 68 Kentucky Derby Inspired Recipes 75 Events

TOWNANDGOWNMAGAZINE.COM HOME . GARDEN . LIFE . STYLE . FOOD . HEALTH . FITNESS

Flip to page 68 for this delicious spicy shrimp on polenta recipe along with other recipes to celebrate the Kentucky Derby!

VOLUME 4,

on the cover.On. theThe Colonade House is just one of many houses on

NUMBER 4

April 2015

Kentucky De rby Fashions What’s new wit Katie Hecke h l

ApRiL • 2015

@townandgown

GAZINE.COM

@townandgownmag

TOWNANDGOWNMA

CoverColumbus’ Pilgrimage tour this season. Join both Columbus and Aberdeen as they celebrate the seasonal Pilgrimages.

Town & Gown

Cotton Dis trict Arts Festiv al

Don’t forget to check out our fashion pages. Love the setting?

It’s the Guest Room (downstairs at Restaurant Tyler). If you haven’t stopped by you’re missing out on the best place in Starkivlle!

@townandgownmag1

@townandgownmag APRIL 2015 | 5

A Product of Horizon of Mississippi P.O. Box 1068 | Starkville, MS 39760 www.townandgownmagazine.com

{ staff } Don Norman | publisher - sdnpub@starkvilledailynews.com Camille Watts| editor - editor@townandgownmagazine.com

{ account executives } Sarah Elizabeth Tyner - sarahliz@townandgownmagazine.com

{c o n t r i b u t o r s } Lacy Arant Lisa Bynum Susan O’Bryant

{wr i t e r s }

Clint Kimber ling Joe Lee Richelle Putnam

{p h o t o gr a p h e r s } Divian Connor Sarah Tyner Raeley Stevens Ashley Covin Laura Daniels

{ stylist }

Natalie Phillips

{p a ge d e s i gn } Camille Watts

{a d v e r t i s i ng d e s i gn} Chris McMillen

Reproductions in whole or in part,without written permission,is strictly prohibited. No responsibility can be assumed for unsolicited manuscripts, articles or photographs. We reserve the right to edit submissions before publication. Town & Gown is a free magazine published monthly and distributed in and around Starkville and the Golden Triangle area. Subscriptions are available for mail customers. For subscriptions or inquiries,write Town & Gown Magazine, P.O. Box 1068, Starkville, MS, 39760, or call 662.323.1642.

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GREEN

APRIL 2015 | 7

Letter from the

Editor

For our Readers Subscribe

I don’t know about y’all, but after last month I sure am happy to look out the windows in our office and see the sun beaming down. The change in weather also heralds the opening of porch doors and windows, the turning on of ceiling fans and the exploration of the great outdoors. I am enough of a realist to acknowledge that here in the south we only have about four to six weeks of truly perfect weather before it gets so hot we groan about having to walk to our cars to go to work.

During these coming weeks I hope you will take advantage of the many things to do around the area. Flip back through March’s issue to find that perfect campground or trail to hike. There are also two pilgrimages only a short drive away. You don’t want to miss Aberdeen’s Pilgrimage (page 31) or Columbus’ Pilgrimage (page 34). Each one is host to several beautiful historic homes that are opened for tour during the month of April. Also, if you are on the fence to whether you want to trek down to Natchez for their pilgrimage, I hope that the photos of Natchez’s Historic Oak Hill Inn (page 58) will convince you to do so.

Here at Town & Gown we know the Kentucky Derby is actually in May, but we decided to start the celebrations early by providing some delicious Kentucky Derby inspired recipes (page 68) and don’t for get to check out our fashion pages! There you can find the perfect outfit for the upcoming Derby Days.

In our August issue there was a feature on Katie Heckel and RafikiFriends. Flip over to page 18 and find out what she’s been up to lately. Until next month!

Camille Watts

Get Town and Gown Magazine delivered right to your doorstep! Subscribe for $48 a year, $26 for six months or $6 for one time. To order call 662-323-1642 or email info@townandgownmagazine.com.

Announce your engagement or wedding with us!

January is our Bridal issue! Wedding and engagement announcement pricing is listed at townandgownmagazine.com. Submit 15-20 wedding photos to info@townandgownmagazine.com for review to be featured in Town and Gown Magazine.

Events Town and Gown Magazine would love to be at your next event. If your organization or business is having an event please email info@townandgownmagazine.com a month before event date.

We cannot promise we will be at all events, but we will try!

If we missed out Send us your event photos with names from left to right (if available) and a brief description of event to info@townandgownmagazine.com or mail or drop off a disc to 304 Lampkin St., Starkville, MS 39759.

Give a Town andGown!

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Previous Issues Miss an issue? We can ship a copy of any previous issue to you for only $6. Call us at 662-3231642.

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pilates • BARRE • CARDIOLATES ORGANIC SPRAY TAns

APRIL 2015 | 9

Sunday

MONday

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY 1

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MSU BB vs Texas A&M

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7

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MSU BB vs Memphis

MSU BB vs Northwestern State

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Amory Railroad Festival

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MSU BB vs Florida

SCT Presents: Social Security

Super Bulldog Weekend

MSU BB vs Arkansas Family Farm Weekend

SCT Presents: Social Security

Lyceum Series: Sleeping Beauty

Redefining Manhood: A Workshop

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MSU BB vs Ole Miss

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MSU BB vs South Carolina

Amory Railroad Festival

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MSU BB vs South Carolina

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Old Main Music Festival

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MSU BB vs Texas A&M College of Vet Med Open House SCT Presents: Social Security

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MSU BB vs Florida

MSU BB vs South Carolina

Amory Railroad Festival MSU BB vs Texas A&M College of Vet Med Open House

MSU BB vs Florida Super Bulldog Weekend

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Super Bulldog Weekend SCT Presents: Social Security Redefining Manhood: A Workshop

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SCT Presents: Social Security MSU Young Alumni Lunch

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MSU BB vs Arkansas SCT Presents: Social Security

Family Farm Weekend

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MSU BB vs LSU

SCT Presents: Social Security Redefining Manhood: A Workshop Cotton District Arts Festival

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MSU BB vs Arkansas

APRIL 2015

Amory Railroad Festival

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SATURDAY

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2

FRIDAY

SCT Presents: Social Security Family Farm Weekend

b

THURSDAY

Additional Event Details: Redefining Manhood: A Workshop: Friday, April 17th 8:30am – Sunday, April 19th 9:30am Jim Ewing, the author of seven books on eco-spirituality and mind-body medicine, will be teaching two three-day workshops. Timed to coincide with the release of his new book, Redefining Manhood: A Guide for Men and Those Who Love Them (Findhorn Press, Spring 2015), the workshops will focus on reassessing the concept of men and their roles in today’s society. For more information please visit: www.thehomesteadcenter.com.

Family Farm Weekend: Friday, April 24th 5:00pm Sunday, April 26th 5:00pm The weekend focuses on group meals, group projects, and group accommodations. This course is divided into three themes: Animal Husbandry: Basic care of rabbits, bees, chickens, Food Production: Building and filling raised beds, natural pest and weed control, rotational planting, interplanting, and starting seedlings, Creating Homestead

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Structures: Build a compost system, rain barrel, and worm bin (you will take home a compost bin and worm bin) and Practical fencing and vertical/container gardening. For more information please visit: www.thehomesteadcenter. com.

Starkville Community Theatre: Social Security: Written by one of Hollywood’s top comedy screenwriters and directed by the great Mike Nichols, this hilarious Broadway comedy starred Marlo Thomas and Ron Silver as a married couple who are art dealers. Their domestic tranquility is shattered upon the arrival of the wife’s goodygoody nerd of a sister, her uptight CPA husband, and her archetypal Jewish Mother. They are there to try to save their college student daughter from the horrors of living only for sex. The comic sparks really begin to fly when the mother hits it off with the elderly minimalist artist who is the art dealer’s best client. For more information, please email the director at paula.mabry@gmail.com

who we’re loving lately • our favorites on Instagram and Twitter • www.instagram/townandgown

Fleur de lis • @fleurdelis2013 • www.floristnstarkvillems.com Fleur de lis is not only the best place to buy flowers in Starkville, but they also carry home decor as well. Our favorites? The Mississippi pillows and the Morse Code print (both pictured above). Stop by during April and find that perfect Easter gift.

Last Man Standing • @shoplastmanstanding • www.facebook.com/pages/Shop-Last-Man-Standing/392280794283254 Recently opened, Last Man Standing is one of the best places in Starkville to shop for menswear. While they sell the standard menswear items they also carry manly smelling candles and make-your-own-cologne kits.

DeRego’s Bread

109 W MAIN ST • STARKVILLE • MISSISSIPPI

DeRego’s Bread • @deregosbread • www.deregosbread.com/ Coming to Main Street later this year, DeRego’s Bread started off at the Starkville Community Market in 2013. According to their website they will offer several types of breads including a Starkville Sourdough Boule, French Country Sourdough and Portuguese Biscuits. Follow them on Instagram to watch their progress in rennovating their Main Street space.

APRIL 2015 | 13

April’s Wishlist. . . Spring Inspired. . .

Style Revel 201 E. Main St Starkville, MS 662.341.2709

The Mill Design and Home 74 Brickerton St Columbus, MS 662.370.1030 14 | TOWNANDGOWNMAGAZINE.COM

Aspen Bay 116 E. Main St Starkville, MS 662.320.8476

Last Man Standing 103 N. Lafayette St. Starkville, MS 662.341.1592

Susan’s Hallmark 100 Russell St Starkville, MS 662.324.0810

Thyme 402 Lampkin St Starkville, MS 662.323.5979

. . . With A Bit of Spring Cleaning!

Last Man Standing 103 N. Lafayette St. Starkville, MS 662.341.1592

Susan’s Hallmark 100 Russell St Starkville, MS 662.324.0810

Style Revel 201 E. Main St Starkville, MS 662.341.2709

Thyme 402 Lampkin St Starkville, MS 662.323.5979

Aspen Bay 116 E. Main St Starkville, MS 662.320.8476

The Mill Design and Home 74 Brickerton St Columbus, MS 662.370.1030 APRIL 2015 | 15

what we’re loving lately Monthly subscription boxes.

Blue Apron

Blue Apron makes cooking at home easier.

Each week the company sends subscribers recipes and ingredients to make three meals that are simple and nutritious. The recipes are put together by a Blue Apron chef and only take, on average, 35 minutes to make. Blue Apron charges about $60 a week to feed a family ranging from 2-4 people. www.blueapron.c om

Green Kid Crafts

Green Kid Crafts designs hands-on discovery boxes, craft boxes and STEM boxes that are delivered monthly. These monthly boxes contain 4-6 projects and are for kids 3-10. The prices range from $17.95 for a 12-month subscription to $19.95 for the month to month subscription. http://www.greenkidcrafts.c om

Barkbox

BarkBox is a monthly subscription box for man’s best friend. Each month’s box includes at least four handpicked items for your four-legged pal based on his or her size. The items can range from all-natural treats and toys to hygiene items to innovative gadgets. In addition to making your pal happy you can help other dogs in need. A portion of the profits of each BarkBox goes to help dogs without forever homes. www.barkbox.c om 16 | TOWNANDGOWNMAGAZINE.COM

Stitch Fix

Ever wanted your own personal stylist?

With Stitch Fix you get just that. Each month five clothing/accessory items are delivered right to your door. Keep the ones you want and pay for them online and send back the ones you don’t! www.stitchfix.c om

Uppercase Box

Uppercase Box is a monthly subscription box that is geared towards young adults or readers of young adult fiction. Each month subscribers get one newly released work of young adult fiction, one book accessory such as a bookmark and exclusive content from the author of that month’s box. www.uppercasebox.c om

fabfitfun Box

This box gives subscribes everything a woman needs from the inside out. FabFitFun provides a box of goodies every three months. The boxes are seasonal and contain items hand-picked by the FabFitFun Team. The box features a good mixture of beauty, fashion, fitness, wellness and home products. Past items have included healthy snacks, make up, nail polish and scarves among other things. www.fabfitfun.c om

APRIL 2015 | 17

RafikiFriends: Catching Up with Katie Heckel

By Richelle Putnam Photo by Danny K Photography

When Town & Gown visited Katie Heckel in 2014, we learned about her passion for missions and her trip to Ghana where she set up RafikiFriends, a non-profit organization with a mission to spread the gospel through friendships, child sponsorships, annual fundraising, special building projects, and group visits. This year as we visit Katie again we focus on her other passion—music—and her newly released CD, From the Ashes.

“The idea came a about year-and-a-half ago when Rafiki had a fire that burned down the building with all the kitchen stuff,” said Katie. “I was thinking about how I was going to raise money to rebuild the building. My friends, Jenny and Tyler, said, ‘You could record an album.’ “ Katie met Tyler and Jenny Somers, the husband and wife acoustic folk-pop duo from Nashville, in 2009 when she brought them to a house concert in Cleveland, Mississippi.

The Somers were traveling from Hattiesburg to Kentucky.

“They love Jesus and they love each other,” said Katie.

“They write songs that are so rich and full of life.”

After the arrangements Katie made for them at a local guesthouse fell through, Katie told them to spend the night at her house. However, around two in the morning, the couple’s air mattress popped. Katie insisted the couple take her bed for the night. It was something neither of them ever forgot and they became close friends.

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“I helped connect them to places to play in Cleveland and Starkville and Oxford,” said Katie. “They have really grown their audience in Mississippi and I’m so happy for them.”

Taking Tyler and Jenny’s advice on recording a CD, Katie went to Nashville to work with them.

Basically, Katie wrote songs that were like skeletons still lacking flesh and life. Tyler and Jenny helped put life into these. Producers work with a recording artist, Katie explained. They add to or change melody or add chords and help produce a song and not just create an album. Together, Jenny, Tyler and Katie wrote four original songs and recorded two

modern day hymns. Tyler and Jenny wanted Katie to sing one of their songs “Psalm 46,” which has become the Rafiki theme song. To Katie, Tyler is a musical genius. He managed to pull a musical audio of the children singing and put it on the CD. “At some point, the kids start singing with me and it’s the climax of the CD.” Katie admits to being one of those music nerds who buys the album and reads the lyrics first. She hopes that when people hear the songs that they see the story. “When I hear the music I have a really hard time hearing the words because I get so focused on the melody, the harmony, and the chorus.” But APRIL 2015 | 19

even if listeners are not people who like to read words, they’re going to love the funky beat.

If we experience life and love our neighbors, the stories come to us, said Katie. “It’s so neat because everybody has a story.” The way to process a story is to write about it. When Katie heard the stories of the children in Ghana and about the work God was doing in people’s lives, she needed to tell these stories. “There is a responsibility to bring these stories into people’s homes so they can see God’s redeeming work.”

But, added Katie, some stories shouldn’t be told.

“You must be wise in determining whether or not this is a story to be told.” You take a story into your life and you take it for what it is. Some stories come only to you to change you. They are not to be told.

The first song on the CD, “The Story,” proclaims that this is the story God has given us; it is who we are.

Clearly, music dwells in Katie’s heart, but missions dig deep into her soul.

“At chapel every Wednesday and Friday, I’ll have my guitar and I can’t even hear myself singing and playing because the kids sing so loudly. Even

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though we are singing the same words, the words to them mean something different.”

Katie explained how she came from a background of security in her family and her job and even in her house. “If there is anything I need to get, I have access to it,” she said. “These kids do not.” They come from a place of insecurity, from lifethreatening situations. Now, they have been rescued and they have found security in Jesus and a home at Rafiki.

“There’s something about singing the words with them in a different environment that completely moves me. The gospel becomes so much more alive when you see God’s redemption,” said Katie.

Orphan care work is a part of that redemption. To be able to write a song about the kids is personal and very different from a short-term mission trip where you go and then you leave. “I’m going back to Rafiki in May and this will be my ninth trip,” she said.

“These kids are a part of me.”

Katie’s songs are her freedom of expression, but for the Rafiki children, songs have become an expression of their new-found freedom.

As you can see, Katie never allows the focus to be

solely on her even though Tyler and Jenny call her the Queen of Mississippi. The focus of From the Ashes is to rebuild Rafiki back up the ashes just like the lyrics, From the ashes a fire shall be woken, say.

Katie wants these lyrics to affect listeners as if she is talking directly to them.

“We really felt the presence of the Lord while we were writing the songs,” she said. “Even if you don’t know anything about Rafiki, I hope when you listen to the music, you will be encouraged.”

Last summer Katie taught the children about story. It came easy to them because children are so imaginative. They are discovering their story and how to tell their story. Katie’s story is different, but “that doesn’t mean my story is greater than yours or that yours is greater than mine.” It’s about weaving all of the stories together. “I hope people will find confidence in the story God is writing in their life.”

For more information about Katien Heckel visit katieheckel.com or about Jenny and Tyler Somers visit jennyandtyler.com. If you are interested in hosting a house concert, Katie will come for a donation.

What people are saying about From the Ashes: “Katie’s singing and songwriting spring up directly from the well watered soil of a life lived out of love for people. Whether those people are a bustle of Ghanaian children in her arms, gathered friends circling her warm living room, or any number of folks who’ve found safe harbor from struggle in her friendship, Katie sings from a place of truth and compassion for people. Every song combines an honest eye to the brokenness we share with the melody of hope and welcome we all long for.”Matthew Clark, singer/songwriter/storyteller “Whether you’ve just met Katie or have had the privilege of knowing her for a long time, it’s evident that Katie loves music, people, and God. Her songs bring these themes together just as her life illustrates these three loves. She’s famous for her joyful smile, and Katie’s songs will bring a smile to your face and joy to your heart.”- Hugh Griffith, Campus Minister at Wesley Foundation at Mississippi State University

APRIL 2015 | 21

Cotton District Arts Festival

By Joe Lee

J

Photos Submitted

oe MacGown, whose artwork has won or placed nearly ten times at the Cotton District Arts Festival, sees a lot of potential in Paige Cannon, whose CDAF promotional poster design was selected to help market this year’s event.

“I’ve met Paige and would say that she has some good graphic design skills,” said MacGown, who has judged in the Market Street Festival juried art show in Columbus. “Her design was very light and refreshing, perfect for this spring festival. It encompasses both the idea of the festival and of the Cotton District neighborhood.”

The biggest fundraiser for the Starkville Area Arts Council, the CDAF is in its nineteenth year and takes place Saturday, April 18. It offers a juried art competition, an artisan’s village, specially-prepared cuisine and live musical entertainment on

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three stages. The annual Poetry Slam will include the works of local students and feature gift certificates from The Book Mart & Café for prizewinners. Bring the kids to learn and explore at the Children’s Village, and to enjoy the Pet Parade. There’s even a 5K Run/Walk to start the day.

“The thing that folks should know about the festival is the quality,” said Jon Turner, this year’s CDAF Chair. “Since 1996, when the SAAC got involved, the focus has been on the vendors and their work. We strive to make sure that everyone who participates as an artist and vendor has something unique and authentic.

“And I think the results speak for themselves – every year more and more new vendors vie for inclusion in the event, and every year we have to turn some away because we have so much competition for our limited space. We are very proud of our reputation among the artistic community and with the public, who come out year after year and enjoy the event.”

There will be live music on three stages from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. The roster of artists includes Matt Hines, Big Joe Shelton and The Black Prairie Blues Ambassadors, Bryan Hayes, the Cedar Creek Ramblers, The Tombigbees, Hope & The Local Folk, The Lost and Founds, Tesheva, Flathead Ford, and the Reverend James APRIL 2015 | 23

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Covington and Men of Praise.

“We’re highlighting Golden Triangle-area talent with many different genres of music represented,” said Larry Wallace, CDAF music coordinator. “I’m very happy to be putting together the music. It’s just one of the many arts that day.”

While you’re keeping time to the beat and taking in the many different pieces of artwork, tantalizing smells will drift from A Taste of Starkville, the everpopular culinary exhibit that allows you to sample appetizers, entrées and desserts from the best chefs in the area.

“We’ll have Veranda, Dawg House Sports Grill, Morris’s Barbecue, Dave’s Dark Horse Tavern, 929 Coffee Shop, Miller’s Homemade Scoops, Cotton District Candy and slushes from Chill Factory,” said Jay Reed, who is co-chairing A Taste of Starkville with Christy Cater again this year. “Almost every year a new vendor wins in one of the categories, so it’s always exciting to see what they have to offer.

New this year is that we’re encouraging vendors to offer a healthy and/or vegetarian option for attendees.”

“The Cotton District Arts Festival provides an opportunity to browse the collections of an array

of Mississippi artists,” said Starkville Mayor Parker Wiseman. “Vendors travel from all over the state and the southeast to display at the festival. The assembly of vendors, along with shows performed by local artists in the Cotton District, provides a unique slice of Mississippi, Starkville, and MSU. It’s worth visiting.”

You never know whose artwork (or live performance, or entrée) at the CDAF might catch the eye or ear or someone influential. As MacGown says, submitting your work is great practice for the future if you’re up for the challenge of competing against your peers.

“Just getting into the juried show is something worth putting on your resume, when you consider that some of the artists in past shows have exhibited their work internationally,” he said. “Jurors are always strong artists and often have gallery curation experience. Entering juried shows is a great way to see how you compare to fellow artists and how your work is received by strong jurors.”

For a complete schedule of the day’s events, visit www.cdafestival.com. To learn more about the Starkville Area Arts Council, visit www.starkvillehearts.net.

Amy Howard Products • DIY Workshops Private Parties • Refinishing Services 74 Brickerton • Columbus, MS • 662.370.1030 www.themilldesignandhome.com

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® R e s c u e

R e s t o re

R e d e c o r a t e®

Spring Cleaning: Tips and Tricks to Clean Your Winter Mess in a Snap!

By Richelle Putnam

S

pring reminds us how everything starts over, fresh and clean. Flower gardens begin to bloom, grass turns lush and green, and buds sprout from leafless trees. The rebirth outside our home prods us to scrutinize the inside of our home. We long for that same fresh, clean setting.

LaToya Brown, owner of All-In-One Cleaning Service, Starkville, Miss., has been in business since early 2008. While most of us loathe cleaning our house, LaToya chose to become a professional at it. In fact, she was doing her morning cleaning when a family member suggested that LaToya go into the cleaning business.

In this issue, LaToya offers some simple tips from room to room to help ease the strain of this year’s spring cleaning.

APRIL 2015 | 27

Bedroom Area: º Wash or dry-clean your curtains & drapes. This not only freshens your rooms, but keeps dust down º Use a broom or Swiffer to go around the ceiling corners and remove dust and cobwebs. º Remember to start from the ceiling and work your way down. º Don’t overlook picture frames and art work, which collects lots of dust. º For dust bunnies collected under your bed place dryer sheets under the bed. They attract dust and can be easily discarded and replaced.

Living/Dining Area: º Lamp shades are dust collectors. A simple way to remove dust from the shades without leaving behind residue is to use a lint roller. This works well on cloth furniture too. º Don’t forget to vacuum beneath your couch pillows. º Window seals and tracks accumulate a lot of

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dirt. Pour a little vinegar directly on the track and then clean. Use a Q-Tip to get into those hard-toreach spots. º Ceiling fans can be messy to clean. Put a pillow case around the fan blade. This not only keeps dirt from getting into your eyes, but also captures the dust inside the pillow case. After cleaning the blades, wipe with furniture polish to keep dust from collecting so quickly.

Bathroom Area: º Vents and fans are the most overlooked areas in the bathroom. Use a broom or Swiffer to sweep away the dust. º A simple way to get rid of soap scum is with a mixture water, vinegar and lemon juice (equal parts).

Pour into a spray bottle and spray down your tub/ shower. Let this solution sit for several minutes before cleaning. For water-stained shower heads, fill a plastic bag with vinegar and tie the bag around the shower head. Allow this to sit for a few hours ºFor water stains on faucet handles or in tubs, use a lemon cut in half to scrub the stains.

Garage Area: This part of your home mainly requires organization. º For organizing items, use clear storage bins that make it easy to see what inside. These bins are stackable and therefore take up less space. They also work well in closets. º In the garage, baseboards are often overlooked.

Use a hard-bristle broom to sweep and remove dust and then wipe with a damp towel or a damp (not wet) mop.

A small family oriented business with a very big heart, All-in-One cleans residential homes and commercial buildings mainly in the Golden Triangle area, but will also travel outside.

“I’m licensed, bonded and insured,” said LaToya.

“Our motto is No job too big or small.” For more information about All-In-One Cleaning Service call (662) 341-6112 or email Latoya at latoyab2011@gmail.com.

A Few Spring Cleaning Tips from Home and Garden TV 1. The best refrigerator cleaner 4. For drab drapes, remove is a combination of salt and soda the hooks and run the drapes water. through the air-fluff cycle in the dryer along with a wet towel, 2. Scraps of carpeting are perfect which draws the dust. After for brushing the dirt off of spinning for 15 minutes, hang screens. the curtains back on the windows immediately.

3. Clean windows with a rag and soapy water. Use another rag to 5. To freshen comforters, dry the windows. A windshield blankets and pillows, hang them squeegee cleans well, too. outside on a clothesline for a day.

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www.bcbsms.com Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Mississippi, A Mutual Insurance Company is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. 速 Registered Marks of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, an Association of Independent Blue Cross and Blue Shield Plans.

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Aberdeen Pilgrimage: One of Mississippi’s Best Kept Secret’s

By Joe Lee

Photos Submitted

O

ne of the best-kept secrets in northeast Mississippi, the annual Aberdeen Southern Heritage Pilgrimage celebrates its fortieth year in 2015 with a three-day tour of eight homes (and the historic Elkin Theatre) that’s set for April 10-12.

“Visitors will enjoy the variety of architecture,” said Faith West, president of the Aberdeen Pilgrimage Association. “Bella Vida is one of four Second Empire homes in the state – we have two of them here in Aberdeen – and there’s Victorian and antebellum. Harrison-Phelan is a cottage-type house.

“We’re asked all the time if people actually live in the homes on the pilgrimage, and people live in all of them 365 days a year except for Harrison-Phelan, which is owned by the city of Aberdeen. The number of folks who went through Harrison-Phelan really jumped last year after a Civil War encampment took place on the grounds – which are absolutely beautiful – and the encampment will take place again this year.”

The featured homes include Bella Vida, Painted Lady, Harrison-Phelan, The Shadows, Harrison-Howard, Magnolias, Adams-French, Holliday Haven and the Elkin Theatre.

All are in or around downtown Aberdeen. Pilgrimage tickets can be purchased for single days or for the entire tour and are available online at www.aberdeenpilgrimage.com until April 8, and at Bird’s Nest and Victorian Rose, antique stores that are both located on East Commerce.

“We’re a small pilgrimage compared to Columbus, but we get folks who mention that they heard of us from Columbus,” West said. “We had fifteen states represented last year – including California, Pennsylvania, Alaska, Oregon and Michigan – and we had 500-600 people who came. A lot of people will attend when visiting family or friends in the area, but many find out about us through our web site and make plans to attend.”

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HOLLIDAY HAVEN (built in 1850s – 609 South Meridian) A stunning example of Greek Revival architecture in Aberdeen, Holliday Haven was built by cotton farmer Colonel John Holliday just before the Civil War. The home, located at 609 South Meridian, remained in the family until 1993 and retains the original façade as well as a unique double staircase and first floor jib windows. Several

of the original furnishings in Holliday Haven were delivered by riverboat and still occupy the home today, along with original jewelry, scrapbooks and paintings. The interior woodwork was inspired by Asher Benjamin, whose architectural stamp is on many area Greek Revival homes.

THE SHADOWS (built in 1907 – 511 South Matubba) Built in Neoclassical style in 1907 by Dan Howard for his family and wife, Anna, The Shadows almost sounds like something from an Alfred Hitchcock film. But the home, at 511 South Matubba, was christened by Mr. Howard because of its ever-present shadows – regardless of brilliant sun or haunting moonlight. Howard sold the house, bought it back, and sold it again; he wound up moving his family all over the country, returning now and then to Aberdeen.

During the Pilgrimage, the current owners of The Shadows host a turn-of-the-century formal dinner which includes a candlelight tour of the home.

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THE ELKIN THEATRE (built in 1937 – located at 110 West Commerce) The Elkin Theatre, located at 110 West Commerce, was designed in the Art Nouveau style by Robert Boller and opened in 1937 with a seating capacity of 800. Considered one of the finest theaters in the South for decades, the Elkin was purchased in 1985 by local residents who formed the Aberdeen Elkin Theatre Association and took responsibility for its restoration and upkeep. In addition to being listed on the National Register of Historic Places, The Elkin is also the site of two live theater performances (about life in a small town) during the Pilgrimage of Homes.

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Columbus Pilgrimage: A Tradition Like No Other

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tradition not only for Columbus but residents of many southern states since 1940, the annual Columbus Pilgrimage of Homes has been praised in Better Homes and Gardens and Southern Living and has a huge financial impact on the city.

“We’re honored that so many in the south consider us a premier tourist destination,” said Nancy Carpenter, executive director of the Columbus Visitor’s Bureau. “There have been years when we’ve had a visitor from every state in the country, and others when we’ve had visitors from twenty different foreign countries.

If you look at all the activities of the Pilgrimage put together, we have 13,000-15,000 attend each year, and many spend the night.”

A crawfish boil on the lawn of the Tennessee Williams Welcome Center kicks off this year’s celebration, which runs from April 6-18. Activities include carriage rides, double-decker bus rides, an author signing at the Williams home and a half marathon. Chronicles of the Blue and the Gray will be performed by John Purifoy at Rent Auditorium on the Mississippi University for Women campus, and there’s the popular Tales of the Crypt graveyard tour at historic Friendship Cemetery.

“All of our homes are pre-Civil War,” Carpenter said. “There’s antebellum, Gothic, Green Revival, and Italianate. White Arches, which is on the Green Tour with Rosedale and the Stephen D. Lee Home and Museum, is also called Columbus Eclectic because it combines virtually every architectural style in Columbus.

Snowdoun returns this year and is on the Yellow Tour, and Twelve Gables returns (on the one-day tour, on April 6) and is the home most associated with our nation’s Memorial Day.” For a complete listing of homes on the Pilgrimage and events associated with this year’s event, visit www.visitcolumbus.org.

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STEPHEN D. LEE HOME AND MUSEUM (built in 1847 – 316 7th Street North) General Stephen D. Lee once lived at the home and museum named for him at 316 7th Street North, but Major Thomas Garton Blewett had the spacious Italianate mansion built in 1847. In 1916, the Blewett family sold the house to the city of Columbus for use by the school system. A fire seriously damaged the home in 1959, but the Association for the Preservation of Antiquities in Columbus and Lowndes County met with city officials and asked permission to restore it. The home now houses the Florence McLeod Hazard Museum, which exhibits Civil War collections and artifacts.

AMZI LOVE HOME/LINCOLN HOME (built in 1848 – 305 7th Street South) Located adjacent to each other on 7th Street South, the Amzi Love Home and the Lincoln Home are popular Pilgrimage stops each spring, especially when the azaleas and wisteria are in bloom. Sid Caradine, owner and curator of the Amzi Love Home, is the seventh generation of his family to live there – there are original furnishings dating to 1848, when the home was built. Sid’s wife, Brenda, owns and operates the Lincoln Home, a bed and breakfast which brings in visitors from all over the southeast and is also the site of weddings, retreats, and corporate events.

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TENNESSEE WILLIAMS BIRTHPLACE (built in 1875 – 300 Main Street) The birthplace of Columbus-born playwright Tennessee Williams, the Pulitzer Prize-winner who gave us A Streetcar Named Desire and The Glass Menagerie, was built in 1875. The Victorian home was originally the rectory for St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, where Williams’ grandfather served as minister.

In 1993, amid discussions about tearing down the rectory to expand the church, the colorful home was loaded on flatbed trailers and moved to its permanent location at 300 Main Street, where it was restored. The Williams birthplace was also designated with a National Literary Landmark and serves as the official Welcome Center for Columbus.

j o i n u s To C E L E B R AT E o u R 7 5 T h Y E A R

April 6 -18

2015 CATFISH IN THE ALLEY®

Catfish & Blues

April 11

75 Years of Exemplary Historic Home Tours and Unparalleled Hospitality go to www.visitcolumbusms.org for complete listing of events Tennessee Williams Home & Welcome Center • 300 Main Street • 800-920-3533 • www.visitcolumbusms.org

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Making A Difference: Junior Auxiliary’s Girl Talk

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or the past five years Starkville’s Junior Auxiliary has been busy touching the lives of young girls at East Oktibbeha County Elementary School using their Girl Talk program. Each year the Junior Auxiliary selects 15-20 new members and it is during their first “provisional” year, the members spend time learning about the program and how Junior Auxiliary serves the community and it’s children. In the past, each new provisional class created a new project that helped children not currently being served by the Junior Auxiliary foundation. It was the 2009-2010 Junior Auxiliary provisional class that realized there was a need for a program that caters to upper elementary schoolaged children so Girl Talk was formed.

“Junior Auxiliary was already helping the lower elementary students through JA PALS and Adopt A Class and the high school girls were being reached through Crown Club. Girl Talk was created to focus on the girls in the upper elementary, an age group not being served at that time,” said Junior Auxiliary member, Kathryn Byrum.

“East Oktibbeha County Elementary School was chosen because we not only want to meet the needs of the children in the city school, but also the needs of the children in the county school.”

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Each year the first few weeks of the program are spent getting to know the girls and then the participating Junior Auxiliary members analyze and assess what they believe that year’s group of girls’ needs are. They also focus on finding ways to meet those needs. Each year they try to cover the same major topics, but since each class of girls is different a lot of times their needs are different as well.

The program, which covers topics such as exercise, healthy eating, bullying, boys, relationships, friendships, manners, body changes, and hygiene, tries to meet twice a month, though sometimes there are conflicts. This year a group of 24 girls meet each month to discuss topics that are important to them. During the month of February the group met during the week of Valentine’s Day.­ The topic of the day, of course, dealt with the good and bad qualities to look for in a relationship.

The girls were divided into groups, each with a Junior Auxiliary member to lead the discussion, as they each named good qualities that they should look for in a significant other.

Typical answers like cute, funny and nice were

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mentioned, but also more thoughtful answers such as respectful, considerate and generous were included when each group shared.

The topic may seem a bit trivial for older girls and adults, but for the sixth graders it is perfect.

“Sixth grade can be a very hard age for girls, their bodies are changing, their interests are changing, and their schools are getting ready to change. We want to be there to help them transition through these changes gracefully,” explained Byrum.

With a lot of organizations’ programs those who are not participating in them wonder if they are making any difference. Kathryn believes that they are. She explains that there’s a huge difference between the girls that come in on the first day and the girls that leave on that last day. They have opened up to not just each other, but to the Junior Auxiliary members as well.

East Oktibbeha County Elementary School counselor, Dovie Barnes, believes that the Junior Auxiliary has made a difference as well and not just through the Girl Talk Program..

“The Junior Auxiliary has truly been a blessing

to our students here at East Oktibbeha County Elementary School. The Auxiliary has provided uniforms, school supplies and other needed items when requested,” Dovie explained.

For those individuals hoping to help out with the Girl Talk program there is opportunity to sponsor a program. There are many businesses in town and in the surrounding areas who do just that by giving a tax deductible donation. This gift is then used to serve the children of Oktibbeha county through our various service projects. The Junior Auxiliary of Starkville also hosts two charity events annually.

“Our first charity event is coming up on May 2. It is our Kentucky Derby Party. Tickets are $40 a piece and can be purchased from any Junior Auxiliary member and also at several of our sponsors’ locations such as Thyme, George Sherman, and Occasion’s,” said Kathryn.

This year at the party, Junior Auxiliary will have a silent auction, live coverage of the Run for the Roses, food, drinks, and dueling pianos!

“We also have another charity event in the fall called Chilifest! It is a fun family night of music and chili tasting,” continued Kathryn.

Upcoming upper elementary girls shouldn’t be

worried that the program will end once the school districts are consolidated in this coming year.

Kathryn states that as long as the school will allow the Junior Auxiliary to come visit the girls they will be there.

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Made in Mississippi: Harry Day Sculptures

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By Joe Lee

Photos Submitted

ree-spirited Harry Day, an artist who makes metal sculptures and never saw a piece of scrap he didn’t think he could use in a design, grew up in the Jackson area and graduated from Mississippi State University. He began working with metal in 2003 and credits art professor and photographer Mark Brown and a sculptor named Nick the Torch as his inspirations.

“I really enjoy making elephants and fighter planes,” Day said. “My favorite piece would be one of the first planes I gave my father. The underside of the wings was made from a railroad brake shoe, and the rest of the body was made from metal square tubing and thin steel plate. The wheels were made from railroad track lock washers, and the rear wheels were made from a closed-end wrench head. The propeller – which turns – was made from a discarded bicycle I picked up off the side of the road.”

Day’s stories are just as unique: A friend who broke his leg gave Day the metal fragments used by the doctor to fix the bone – Day made a sandpiper from them. Another time Day made a metal deer mount (and a deer head with horns) for a woman who installed them in her custom-designed barn in Clinton. When they were stolen, she went door to door in her neighborhood and found not only the thieves but recovered Day’s artwork. And there’s the life-size statue of a trumpeter Day made for a doctor from New York City – the doc had it shipped home and spent as much to get it there as he did on 40 | TOWNANDGOWNMAGAZINE.COM

the piece itself.

“One of a kind is what comes to mind when I think of Harry,” said Michelle Barker, owner of Sugar Magnolia Gifts and Boutique in Madison.

“I especially like the sandpiper and his shovel back ducks. I have a ‘man’ section in the back of the store, and women love to give gifts like his to the men in their lives who have everything.”

Day is an active member of the Mississippi Craftsman’s Guild and gives a public demonstration there once a year. He has displayed his work at the Peter Anderson Festival in Ocean Springs, Chimneyville in Jackson, and Double Decker in Oxford. He’ll be at this year’s Cotton District Arts Festival.

“Harry’s work is often whimsical and creative, while at other times it’s more contemplative and imaginative,” said Brown, who teaches art at Jones County Community College. “Working primarily in discarded metal, he cleverly repurposes and sometimes refabricates items to accommodate the intention of his concepts.”

“I taught myself how to use the oxyacetylene torch and my welder and I became very familiar with hand grinders (such as) the angle grinder,”

Day said. “Besides a hand-me-down table vice and several hand tools, all I need is a large pile of metal refuse – steel to be exact. If a magnet can attach to the metal, I can use it in my work.

“When I first started, my pieces took a fair amount of time to build. What used to take several hours can now take roughly an hour or two, depending on the size and complexity of the piece.

My first plane took two days to make. Now I can make one in half a day.”

Day, who also paints and writes fiction, can be reached through his web site, www.harrymday.com.

He has won several awards for his metal sculptures, but some of his most rewarding moments take place when he’s displaying his work.

“I have people, from toddlers who cannot (yet) talk to elderly people who can barely get around, stop and look at my work and react in ways that make me feel like I must be doing something right,” he said. “When I can make a ninety-year-old man or woman stop and tilt their head and study my work, I feel I have done something far more important than making a sale or creating a masterpiece – I have impressed someone who has lived and seen it all.”

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Sweat, Strengthen, Stabilize: All in 30 Minutes!

By Lacy Arant Owner of Midtown Pilates Photos by Sarah Tyner

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e live in a world where there is a dire need to devote time to health and fitness, but there is not always sufficient time to do so. We need to take time for ourselves that is free from technology, background noise and distraction. Our bodies and minds need our undivided attention. I am a firm believer in all of the above, but unfortunately, it is not the culture we live in. What happens if you are busy? What if you work long hours only to stay up late to get kids bathed and put to sleep? What if you would rather go on a date with your spouse than spend an hour and a half at the gym after work? What if all of these scenarios become so overwhelming that you choose to give up exercise altogether? This is where time restraint becomes a problem. We tell ourselves that there is no way we can complete a great full-body workout in a short amount of time, but I am telling you differently. Lack of time shouldn’t be a reason to skip a workout or to lack a fitness routine.

There are so many resources out there for quick workouts. Most of these are formatted to target a specific body part, but lack attention to posture, breathing or joint stability. Because of this, it is important to know what you are getting when you do a quick workout. The lack of attention to detail in most of these workouts has always been frustrating for me as a fitness instructor. If you put quick workouts for each part of the body together, it ends up being a pretty long session. Even though I work in fitness, it can be difficult to find long amounts of time to exercise. However, it is important that you are working your entire body safely and effectively -- no matter the length of the workout.

Men and women come in and out of my studio each and every day, many of whom are parents, doctors, business owners, teachers, volunteers and entrepreneurs. They are busy. I am in awe of how they “get it all done,” but I know that is not reality for everyone.

Here is a simple routine that can be modified to any time limit. I have it set for 30 minutes, but you can add or take away rounds to make it longer or shorter, respectively. The best part? Your entire body is working in every position. Sweat it out and enjoy! For more information and a video of the full workout, check out our blog at www.midtownpilates.com/blog! See you next month. - Lacy

Start 1.

2.

3.

Step One: Abdominal Series Starting position: Modified c-curve position with your knees in tabletop. Stack your elbows under your shoulders with your palms resting on the floor. Press up strong through your elbows (think about lifting your sternum toward the ceiling) and keep your abdominals pulled in toward your spine.

1. Double Leg Extension: Inhale to hold knees in

table top, exhale to reach legs out on a high diagonal keeping your inner thighs engaged. 10 reps 2. Half Scissor: Lower left leg down toward the floor and let it hover six inches off of the floor.

Lift and lower the right leg slowly while stabilizing through the left hip joint. 12 reps each side 3. Bicycle: A new twist on an old favorite. Return to starting position. Inhale prepare, exhale extend the right leg. Inhale as you initiate the switch, exhale extend the left leg. Continue this breath pattern and movement for 30 counts. (15 reps each side)

1.

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3.

Step Two: Standing Series Starting position: Using a chair or other appropriate prop, stand forearms distance away with your heels together, toes apart.

1. Mini Plie: Inhale bend the knees, inhale again and bend the knees two inches deeper, exhale as you stand and engage glutes and inner thighs. (Think “inhale, inhale, exhale/bend, bend deeper, stand”) 20 reps 2. Knee Opener: Return to starting position.

Keeping your heels together, lift the heels and

4.

balance on the balls of your feet. Bend the knees keeping the heels lifted. Press the knees away from each other in a pulsing pattern. Pulse for eight counts, then stand keeping the heels lifted. Repeat this four times.

3. Plie to Releve: Return to starting position.

Inhale step out into second position or a stance wider than hips distance apart. Exhale step back in toward the “barre” bringing your outside foot in toward the standing knee.

4. For an added challenge, lift the standing heel as you step back in. Arm lifts from the side to shoulder height with each repetition. 12 reps each side.

Start

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2.

Step Three: Stability Challenge with Arms Starting position: Lunge position with right knee hovering two inches above the mat. One-pound weights (or soup cans, bottles of water, etc) in each hand.

1. Scapular Adduction: Hold your arms in the “goal post position�. Press the elbows back by squeezing the shoulder blades together keeping the wrists stacked above the elbows. Repeat eight times, then jump switch to the other leg to complete eight

3.

more reps. Repeat this series 2 times each side.

2. Bicep Curl: Return to starting position. Hold the arms out in front of you at shoulder height with palms facing the ceiling. Curl the forearms in toward the face using control without letting the elbows drop. Complete eight repetitions, then jump switch to repeat on the other side. Repeat this series 2 times each side.

3. Pulling Taffy: Return to starting position. Hold the arms in front of you with palms facing each other. Open the arms on a diagonal with the right arm in a high diagonal and the left arm in a low diagonal. Repeat eight times each side, jump switch to repeat on the other side. Repeat this series 2 times each side.

Start

1.

2.

3.

Step Four: Extension Series Starting position: Lie on your stomach with a 9-inch stability ball under the sternum (optional) with your hands stacked at your forehead. Legs straight, feet slightly turned out.

1. Hold: Engage your abdominals and lower back and lift the chest up as if you could hover off of the

ball. Hold as you inhale for five counts, exhale for five counts. 5 rounds of inhales/exhales 2. Lift and Lower: Same as above. Exhale as you lift the chest, inhale as you lower.

3. Eagle: Return to starting position. Inhale lift the chest, exhale extend arms into high “V�, inhale return hands to forehead, exhale lower chest. 8 reps

1.

2.

3.

4.

Step 5: Plank Test 1. Hold regular plank for 15 seconds 2. Reach right arm out in front of you for 15 seconds keeping your body square to the floor (may be modified by bringing arm beside hip) Switch to left arm. Repeat for 15 seconds.

3. Lift right leg to hover two inches off of the mat. Hold 15 seconds. Switch to left leg. Hold for 15 seconds.

4. Raise left arm, right leg. Hold 15 seconds.,

then raise right arm, left leg. Hold 15 seconds.

Three-five rounds of this routine should last approximately 30 minutes. To intensify, try to do as many rounds as possible in 30 minutes. To continue to build strength, go at a steady pace and add minutes.

End the session with a deep hip flexor stretch by reaching the same-side arm to the ceiling. One minute each side.

Greg Iles’ The Bone Tree

By Susan O’Bryan Greg Iles’ fans waited years for “Natchez Burning” featuring Penn Cage, Caitlin Masters and their families and friends. Readers were eager to get their hands on another novel set in Natchez, Miss., where fictional residents struggle to cope with the consequences of past meets present. Less than a year later, Iles is satisfying his fans’ addiction with “The Bone Tree,” the second installment in a trilogy kicked off with “Natchez Burning.” The latest edition goes on sale April 21, and the first novel comes out in paperback on March 31. The first, picked as a “Best Book of 2014,” must be read to truly appreciate the second.

“The Bone Tree” is actually the fifth novel featuring Penn Cage, a former attorney and fiction writer who only wants the best for his hometown. In each, Cage butts heads with the worst – and best – on either side of the Mississippi River. What was intended to be one novel evolved into three, making up the “Natchez Burning” trilogy that brings a dark past to an overcast light.

“The Bone Tree” continues Cage’s hunt for his father, a beloved small-town doctor in hiding after being accused of killing his former nurse Viola. The quest to convict the aging doctor is led by the woman’s Northern son and the Natchez sheriff, both black men with a score to settle with the white Cage family.

The story is complicated, something we’ve come to expect from Iles’ novels. It plays heavily on racial tensions that once rocked the South and still lingers in some parts. The past, true or makebelieve, isn’t easily forgotten as Iles draws heavily on civil rights issues and the often brutal history of the South.

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In “Natchez Burning,” readers are introduced to the evil of the Double Eagles, a group of racial terrorists similar to the Ku Klux Klan at its worst.

Cage, now mayor of Natchez, and fiancé Caitlin are drawn into the past after Dr. Cage is accused of murdering his black nurse from several decades ago.

Caitlin is publisher of the town’s newspaper, and she’s hell-bent to uncover the past with the help of a reporter from across the Mississippi River.

“The Bone Tree” picks up immediately where the first novel ended. The Louisiana reporter is murdered trying to save Penn and Caitlin, and Dr. Cage is in hiding with the help of his longtime friend and fellow Korean War veteran Walt Garrity.

Special Agent John Kaiser and his award-winning photojournalist wife, Jordan Glass, join in the search for truth and redemption. Kaiser is determined to prove that rich man Brody Royal wasn’t the head of the snake, but rather just one of many followers led by a devil disguised as state police chief Forrest Knox. Cage and his supporters hope the key to several decades-old mysteries and murders can be found at a legendary “bone tree” deep in the swamps.

If stories are to be believed, the tree, a giant cypress, is where Double Eagles took their victims, mostly

black men, women and even children, to be tortured and killed.

An Iles novel wouldn’t be complete without more twists and turns than you can count, and “The Bone Tree” lives up to that reputation. The Double Eagles are linked, in least in theory, to the assassination of John F. Kennedy and his brother, Bobby. Or are the murderous plans just the ramblings of mean men living out their days filled with racial hate?

“The Bone Tree” is not an easy read. Evil acts spawned by bigotry are described in gruesome detail, spewing over in a bloody, boiling pot of rage and hatred. Considering past atrocities committed in the South, how much of what Iles writes is fiction – or truth? It’s that fine line that appeals to the author’s readers. His novels are compelling, yet touching. Dark, yet tender. “The Bone Tree” is no exception. Characters that readers have learned to love die. Others live. Pain comes in emotional and physical waves of misery, leaving readers reeling with uneasiness.

The last page of “The Bone Tree” sets readers up for the next installment in the trilogy. It’s the author’s task to take us there, and as we’ve seen with the first two novels, Iles is certainly up to the task.

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Inside Natchez’s Historic Oak Hill Inn

By Clint Kimberling Photos by Laura Daniels When Douglas Mauro and Donald Glynn moved from New Jersey to Natchez, Mississippi in 2004 to begin their retirement, their plans didn’t include running a world-renowned bed and breakfast. Rather, their only intent was to escape the New Jersey winters and restore the historic home they had purchased – Oak Hill.

Not total strangers to the South, the pair visited frequently and Donald went to college at Tulane. Mauro describes it simply, saying, “We fell in love with Natchez and decided this was where we wanted to retire. I like to think of it as New Orleans without the threat of flooding.”

But their retirement plans evolved into something else entirely once they settled in Natchez. First, they undertook the two-

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year restoration project of the Oak Hill. This meant replacing or repairing the plaster, paint, roof, porches and even restoring the gardens which included adding a fountain and courtyard. Their efforts to keep the restoration true to the mid-nineteenth century period won them a Restoration Award from the Natchez Historic Foundation in 2005.

Douglas allows that some concessions were made during the remodeling. For instance, the bathroom in the main suite was updated with a marble rainfall shower. But, he assures me, “All of the guest rooms feature antique beds, carpets and mirrors. It really is like stepping back in time and I think that’s what guests expect when they choose to stay in Natchez.”

Oak Hill was built in 1835 high on a hill and 52 | TOWNANDGOWNMAGAZINE.COM

facing the river for breeze (which still comes in handy even 180 years later). But even after the restoration, the house requires constant repair and upkeep. Renting the rooms became a way to offset the maintenance costs. “It was an easy transition,” Douglas tells me describing himself and Donald as natural entertainers. “It still feels like we’re just entertaining friends and family, except they’re paying guests now.”

And now 11 years later the Historic Oak Hill Inn is a world-renowned bed and breakfast. In a surprise to both Douglas and Donald, the website Trip Advisor named Oak Hill Inn as the #1 ranked Bed and Breakfast in the United States and the #3 best in the world.

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Your Peeps for a Healthy Spring Season!

#5 Professional Plaza Starkville, MS 39759 662.323.0999

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Perfectly situated on a secluded half acre just five blocks from the river and only two blocks from downtown, Oak Hill Inn features a formal parlor, dining room and a generous central hallway. The inn only has three guest rooms, including a master bedroom with 12 ft bed, marble shower, and fireplace Visitors Natchez who take one of the popular heritage tours are excited to actually sleep, sit and eat in a home that looks like what they’ve seen on tour. “What they see on tour, they actually get to experience with us. Guests sleep on beds from the 19th century and eat on antique porcelain that dates to the 1800s.”

Other features include a library stocked with books about Natchez and Mississippi and two verandas that feature a view of the river. Guests are offered complimentary cocktails each evening and a guided tour of the home.

Donald and Douglas are the only staff at Oak Hill. This means they do it all, including cooking breakfast. During his time in New Orleans, Donald worked at Brennan’s Restaurant—an experience that has come certainly come in handy running a B&B. Oak Hill features a rotation of 12 dishes, so it’s very rare that guests eat the same meal twice on a visit.

They have become famous for eggs benedict and even revived some recipes from Donald’s days at Brennan’s including the popular Crepes Fitzgerald.

Douglas says he loves seeing people’s reactions when they walk through the doors. “I hear all the time, ‘I can’t believe we get to eat in main dining room.’ That may be because the dining room is decorated with French wallpaper, a Waterford chandelier, and guests dine on porcelain that date back to 1850s. Not your typical B&B arrangement.

It may sound like Douglas and Donald got jobbed out of their retirement, but they still live on-site and are able to fully enjoy the home. They are also fully immersed as Natchez citizens and act as ambassadors to the city. “We try to make sure guests have a good time and have a great Natchez experience,” Douglas says. This includes handing out walking maps to visitors, recommending restaurants, museums or even horse and carriage ride.

“There is a lot to do and see, but sometimes guests just want to sit on the porch and relax. And for that I say this is the best place to come and do nothing.”

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Light blue dress from Style Revel, necklace and purse from Susan's Hallmark and bracelet from Giggleswick. Royal blue floral dress from Style Revel, necklace from Susan's Hallmark, and bracelet from Giggleswick. Baby pink dress and necklace from Style Revel and bracelet from Giggleswick.

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Tan pants, white button down & bowtie from Last Man Standing.

Yellow Dress with white purse and blue necklaces from Deep South Pout.

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pants, blue/white polka dot ▲ White shirt from Last Man Standing. Grey

shorts, grey button-down & bowtie from Last Man Standing. Light blue dress from Style Revel, necklace and purse from Susan’s Hallmark and bracelet from Giggleswick. Baby pink dress and necklace from Style Revel and bracelet from Giggleswick.

Navy Floral dress, pink purse and necklace from Deep South Pout.

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Floral blazer and shorts, and green shirt from LA Green. Purse from Giggleswick.

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Foral colored dress with red purse, and grey necklace from Deep South Pout.

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Tan pants, white shirt from LA Green. Turquoise dress from Sister’s Fine Clothing, necklace from Hallmark.

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Dress from LA ▲ Pink Green. Necklace from Hallmark.

Yellow crochet dress from Sister’s Fine Clothing, necklace and bracelet from Giggleswick. Hat from LA Green.

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pants and blue shirt from ◄ White Deep South Pout. Necklace from Hallmark.

Grey pants and turquoise shirt from LA Green.

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White crochet dress and scarf from Sister’s Fine Clothing.

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See a doctor. When you’re ill, that’s the first step to getting better. But for too many Mississippians, it’s a hurdle. Over half of Mississippi counties are medically underserved. So UMMC’s Center for Telehealth merges medicine and technology to deliver vital personal healthcare to every corner of the state. Using Internet video technology, UMMC doctors diagnose and treat patients remotely.

This goes beyond basic checkups. Telehealth offers 35 medical specialties, including cardiology, neurology, emergency medicine and dermatology.

Instead of impossibly long drives, patients can now have direct access to care in medical facilities, businesses and schools statewide. UMMC has become a national model for telehealth services.

But what really matters is the 500,000 patients we’ve helped right here at home. Learn more at ummchealth.com/telehealth.

UMMC Healthcare.

Tomorrow. Every day.

His nearest medical specialist is a minute

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UMMC Telehealth brings care closer to home.

drive.

©2015 UMMC

On the Menu: ยบ Ham and Buttermilk Buscuits with Pineapple Chutney ยบ Spicy Shrimp on Polenta ยบ Derby Pies in Jars Recipes and Photos by: Lisa Bynum

Ham and Buttermilk Biscuits with Pineapple Chutney Serves 12

For the biscuits: 4 cups all-purpose flour 2 tablespoon sugar ½ teaspoon baking soda 4 teaspoons baking powder 2 teaspoons salt 1 cup chilled unsalted butter

1 ½ to 2 cups cold buttermilk For the pineapple chutney: 1 cup apple cider vinegar ¼ teaspoon ground ginger ½ teaspoon ground black pepper ¼ a cup of brown sugar

For the biscuits: Preheat oven to 450 degrees.

In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder and salt. Cut butter into mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Add three-quarters cup of buttermilk, and stir until dough comes together and begins to leave the side of the bowl, adding additional milk if necessary.

Turn dough out onto a floured surface. Lightly knead 10 times. Roll or pat dough to ½-inch thickness. Cut into disks using a 2 ½ -3-inch cutter. Place on a greased cookie sheet about one inch apart.

Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until golden brown.

For the chutney: Combine first six ingredients in a blender or food

¾ cup golden raisins 1 (20 ounce can) pineapple tidbits, drained2 tablespoon vegetable oil Salt to taste For the sandwiches: 1 ½ - 2 pounds sliced ham

processor. Pulse until ingredients reach a chunky puree.

Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium high heat.

Add pineapple mixture and reduce heat to medium low. Simmer, stirring frequently, until mixture is thick and most of the liquid has been evaporated about 30 minutes.

Allow chutney to cool then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

To assemble the sandwiches: Cut each biscuit in half.

Layer a few slices of ham on the bottom half of each biscuit.

Spread about 1 tablespoon of chutney over each slice of ham.

Place the top half of each biscuit over the chutney.

APRIL 2015 | 69

Spicy Shrimp on Polenta Serves 12

¼ cup olive oil 3 garlic cloves, minced 2 teaspoons lime juice 1 teaspoon chopped seeded jalapeno pepper ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper 1 pound uncooked medium shrimp, peeled and deveined

4-6 wooden skewers

In a medium mixing bowl or large releasable plastic bag, combine first six ingredients.

Swish the mixture around to make sure the olive oil is well incorporated. Add shrimp and marinate for up to two hours.

In a separate bowl, combine the sauce ingredients. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Thirty minutes before you are ready to grill, soak your wooden skewers in water to prevent them from catching fire on the grill.

Prepare a charcoal or gas grill for indirect heat.

Sprinkle both sides of the polenta rounds with the Cajun seasoning.

For sauce: ½ cup mayonnaise 1 green onion, finely chopped 1 teaspoon chopped seeded jalapeno pepper 1 teaspoon hot pepper sauce

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Polenta: 1 tube (1 pound) polenta, cut into 12 slices 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning ¼ cup chopped green onions, optional

Drain shrimp and discard marinade. Thread shrimp onto metal or soaked wooden skewers.

Lightly coat the grill rack with oil. Grill polenta and shrimp for 5-8 minutes, turning once, until shrimp is pink and polenta is firm and shows grill marks.

Place shrimp over polenta.

Top with sauce. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.

Derby Pies in Jars Serves 12

For the pie crust: 1 cup flour ½ teaspoon salt 1/3 cup plus 1 tablespoon unsalted butter or shortening, cut into cubes 1 tablespoon unsalted butter or

shortening, cut into cubes 2 to 2½ tablespoons cold water­

For the pie crust: Combine flour and salt. Cut shortening into flour using a food processor or pastry cutter until mixture forms coarse crumbs. Add water and mix just until dough comes together and forms a ball. Chill dough for approximately thirty minutes prior to rolling out.

Roll dough out onto a floured surface until it is about ¼-inch thick. Using the bottom of the

jar as your guide, cut enough disks to cover the bottom of the jar. Then cut strips and press these up the sides of each jar.

For the filling: For the filling, place 1 tablespoon of chocolate chips into the bottom of each jar, followed by 1 tablespoon of pecans.

Combine melted butter, sugar, corn syrup, eggs, and bourbon.

Stir until sugar is completely

For the filling: ¾ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips ¾ cup pecans

½ cup (1 stick) melted butter, cooled 1 cup sugar 1 cup corn syrup 4 eggs, lightly beaten.

1 tablespoon bourbon

dissolved. Pour mixture over the chocolate chips and pecans, filling each jar about ¾ full.

For the pie: Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Place the jars on a cookie sheet (you may want to cover the cookie sheet with foil in case of spills). Bake the pies for 30-45 minutes until the center are set and the pecans are brown.

Serve with whipped cream or ice cream.

10 Under $50 April Showers Bring May Flowers

Vera Bradley Umbrella Giggleswick $40.00 J. Lauren Earrings Sister’s Fine Clothing $28.00

Triple Play Necklace Sister’s Fine Clothing $25.00

Coral Blouse Cobo’s Boutique $32.99

Girly Girl Liquid Lip Gloss Merle Norman $16.00

Mine Black Scalloped Shorts Cobo’s Boutique $32.99

OPI Infinite Shine Nail Polish Merle Norman $12.50 each

Triple Play Bracelet Sister’s Fine Clothing $24.00

Matt & Nat Maya Vintage Wallet Aspen Bay $35.00 Corky’s Footwear Rainboots Giggleswick $49.95

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Savannah, GA Population: 142,772 (est. 2013) Best attraction: Forsythe Park spans 30 acres which make it an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts. It is also home to the iconic cast iron fountain that was erected in 1858. The park is also adorned by monuments to the Confederate Soldier, the Marine Corps Monument and the Fragrant Garden for the Blind. The Forsyth Park Fountain is one of the most popular attractions for Savannah visitors.

Best time to go: March-July Don’t miss events: Plan your trip to Savannah around one of these events during the high-season: Savannah Music Festival (March 19-April 4) Savannah Seafood Festival (May 1-3) Fourth of July on the Waterfront (July 4) Things to do: Start your morning off with a coffee and a cinnamon roll (served only on Saturdays) from Back in the Day Bakery. While there, you might as well grab lunch to go. Try a Rosemary Chicken specialty sandwich with black currants, celery, herbs, spices and mayo.

After breakfast take a stroll down Savannah’s River Street.

The nine block street is home to more than 75 boutiques, pubs, art galleries and studios and restaurants. These attractions are housed in old cotton warehouses that have since been restored to their old-world beauty.

If museums are your thing then you’re in luck! Savannah is home to several, including the Jepson Center Museum of Art, the Telfair Academy and Ships of the Sea Museum. There are also many homes in Savannah’s Historic District that are open to the public to tour.

Itching to get to the beach? Tybee Island is just a 30 minutes drive away. Play it smart and stay away from the crowds by going to the north beach.

Before you leave take one final stroll around the Historic District and see if you can visit all of Savannah’s 22 Squares.

APRIL 2015 | 73

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Chik-fil-a Run Photos by Sarah Tyner

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1. Hannah Borntrager, Tera Busby, Kimberly Keel and Rebecca Frady 2. Jodi Roberts and Juli Rester 3. Leah Seal and Zach White 4. Kent Nichols and Missy Nichols 5. Mary Kathryn Kight, Kim Roberts and Cows 6. Janet Wetzle and Russ Wetzle

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Junior Auxiliary Member Celebration Photos by Ashley Covin

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1. Mamie Kosko, Lydia Edwards, Jamie Elliott and Mandee Lewis 2. Emily Ferril and Alicia Lucas 3. Ashley Shapley and Dristen Hubbard 4.

Hannah Stewart, Jamie Elliott, Natalie Langston, Meredith Martin, Leah Kemp and Lauren Marconi 5. Wendy Walters and Mary Martha Edwards 6. Laura Rackley, Carrie Couvillion, Hannah Stewart and Jamie Elliot

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Last Man Standing Grand Opening Photos by Sarah Tyner

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1. Letty Weeks and Adam Weeks 2. Caleb Moreau, Thomas Vinton and James Vinton 3. Elizabeth Tackett, Edward Kemp, Taylor Adams and Trey Tackett 4. Bill Weeks and Dianne Weeks 5. Lindsey McNair, Carson Braymer, Maegan Bedells and Katie Thornton 6. Reagan Burdett and Ronnie Burdette

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Distinguished Young Women Program Photos by Raeley Stevens

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1. Derius Riddle, Conni Riddle and Carley Riddle 2. Micah Gray and Hunter Avery 3. Maggie Miller and Molli Brown 4. Robin Fant and Grace Fant 5. Haley Frye and Leslie Frye 6. Merriam Mock, Hailey Lock, Kaylie Beth Hobart and Cailee Hellen Mcclain

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DYM Celebrity Waiter Night Photos by Ashley Covin

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1. Tanner Fant and Morgan Gill 2. Callie Wells and Lawson Joy Dumas 3. Liz Jones, Chandler Godfrey and Callie Wells 4. Catherine Ray and Barb Adkins 5. Nytoria Randle and Sarah De Leon 6. Anna Beth Robertson, Natalie Robertson, and Anna Robertson

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Magnolia Film Festival Photos by Raeley Stevens

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1. Melanie Booth, Melanie Greene, Charlotte Magnussen, Susan Seal and Marie Perkins 2. Michael Williams and Melanie Addington 3. Tanyanekia “Tango” Johnson 4. Malcolm Topps, Jordan Raines and Xavier Williams 5. Jhonny Weichel and Clay Dixon 6. Zachary Boozer and Rob Underhill

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Ferguson DMD Open House Photos by Ashley Covin

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1. Brittany Brock, Raysha Crosland and Bree Bratton 2. Mary Higgins, Melanie Grable and Angela Martinez 3. Jill Beach and Emily Ferguson 4. Raymond Abraham and Wesley Ferguson 5. Matt Matthews, Jerry Toney, Wesley Ferguson, Mike Cayson and Carey Edwards 6. Carson and Kay Hughes

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Don’t Be Cruel BBQ Duel Photos by Sarah Tyner

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1. Maggie Davis, Pat Falkner and Carla Falkner 2. Len Shane, Bill Rager and Derek Russell 3. Adriata Smith, Sequoia Hamilton, Delmetreia Pryor and Keyuanna Gunn 4. Suntanna Flemmings, Memory Carouthers and Serena Berghuis 5. Jim Lloyd and Cindy Lloyd 6. Zack Harrington, Wes Gordon, Jimmy Knight and Paul Zimmerman

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