June 2016

Town &Gown June 2016

Asheville, North Carolina: The South’s premier destination Beyond Bourbon Street: New Orleans at its finest

Katie Zampini on staying healthy while on vacation

The South’s Top Places and Spaces

Taste and Toast: Revisiting Southern Classics

More than flying people to care.

Flying care to people.

Proud to be in the Golden Triangle

ummhealth.com/aircare Š2016 UMMC

INSIDE THIS ISSUE HOME . GARDEN . LIFE . STYLE . FOOD . HEALTH . FITNESS 10 Calendar of Events

12 Wishlist

24 Health: Staying Healthy While on Vacation

33 Asheville, North Carolina: The South’s Premier Destination

38 Town and Gown’s Top Places and Spaces to Visit This Summer

44 Churn It Up! Gourmet Ice Cream Shop to Open in Starkville

48 On the Page: Susan O’Bryan’s June Book Review

51 Taste and Toast: Revisiting Southern Classics

14 Ship Island Excursions Celebrates 90 Years

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18 Beyond Bourbon Street: New Orleans at its finest

26 Atlanta: Thes Best Place to Spend a Long Weekend

55 Fashion

78 Events

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

Are you ready to churn it up? Starkville’s newest ice cream shop, the Churn and Spoon, will be opening this month! It will be located right next to Strange Brew Coffeehouse.

on the cover.On. the The Blue Ridge Mountains are some of the most

Coverspectacular sights to see. If you are craving

mountains this summer, you definitely should check these out! They are only a day’s drive away!

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IMAGINE A WO R L D WITHOUT T H E F LU .

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June 2016 | 7

Letter from the

Editor

If you aren’t aware, there have been a few changes at the Town and Gown office in the past few months. Our advertising rep, Sarah, had her baby at the beginning of April and has been on maternity leave for the past several weeks. Even though we miss her greatly, we know she is having a blast with that new baby. At the end of April, I had a big change of my own. A name change to be more exact. On April 30, I married a kindred spirit and fellow Starkville native, James. Planning our wedding was stressful, so we decided to put off that planning and plan something a little more fun: our honeymoon. Planning our honeymoon gave me the travel itch very badly. So since we couldn’t possibly go on every adventure that we wanted, I compensated by planning a regional travel issue. In these pages are all the places and spaces we at T&G have deemed “must-sees.”

We have feature articles on Asheville, New Orleans and Atlanta. Many of you have taken trips to New Orleans or Atlanta, but I hope each of those stories gives you a new idea of things to do in each city. While New Orleans may not seem like a top pick for a place to take your children, there are actually tons of things in the city that cater towards children, including tours of the French Quarter. There’s a lot more fun adventures in Atlanta than the Coke Museum (even though it is pretty great). There’s the Atlanta Summer Beer Fest that is going on this month, the College Football Hall of Fame and the Martin Luther King, Jr., National Historic Site. If you’ve never considered going to Asheville, North Carolina, I would highly encourage you to consider taking your summer vacation there. It’s just a day’s drive away, and you can hike until your heart’s content, sample some amazing food and see several waterfalls all in this one great area.

Inside these pages, we also have some great summer fashions and tips to help you stay healthy while on vacation. If you are staying in Mississippi for the summer, don’t worry, there is plenty to do around the state. Ship Island Excursions is turning 90 this year and would love for you to come help celebrate down on the coast.

Whatever your plans are this summer, you’re sure to have a blast!

Camille Watts-Carskadon 8 | TOWNANDGOWNMAGAZINE.COM

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Your Peeps Keeping Summer Fun Healthy!

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June 2016 | 9

Town & Gown’s Aspen Bay 116 E. Main St Starkville, MS 662.320.8476

Giggleswick 200 MS-12 Starkville, MS 662.323.4438

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Merle Norman Luna Bella 500 Russell St Suite 5 Starkville, MS 662.323.5255

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June Favorites OCH Gift Shop 400 Hospital Rd, Starkville, MS 662.323.4320

Merle Norman Luna Bella 500 Russell St Suite 5 Starkville, MS 662.323.5255

Susan’s Hallmark 100 Russell St Starkville, MS 662.324.0810

Thyme 402 E Lampkin St, Starkville, MS 662.323.5979

Giggleswick 200 MS-12 Starkville, MS 662.323.4438

Aspen Bay 116 E. Main St Starkville, MS 662.320.8476

June 2016 | 13

Ship Island Excursions celebrates 90 years Story by Clint Kimberling Photos submitted

M

ost Mississippians choose to take their beach vacations in Alabama or Florida, bypassing the muddy water and rocky beaches of the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

But, if you don’t have the time or budget for a trip to Alabama or Florida, Mississippi’s Ship Island, located just 12 miles off the mainland, has the white sand beaches and crystal clear water you’re wanting.

Ship Island is the collective name for the two barrier islands off the Gulf Coast of Mississippi, which make up part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore. In 1969, Hurricane Camille split the once single island into two separate islands.

While East Ship Island is mostly vegetation and wildlife, West Ship Island is home to Fort Massachusetts and one of the top tourist destination

in the state.

But unless you have your own boat, you’re going to need a ride. West Ship Island is the only barrier island that has a ferry service to transport visitors. Ship Island Excursions exclusively provides the ferry service to Ship Island. The company, founded in in 1926 by Peter Skrmetta, a Croatian immigrant, is celebrating its 90th year of operation this summer. The company is owned and operated by the son of the founder, Peter Mathew Skrmetta and his four sons have carried on the family business through the years.

Ship Island Excursions has a fleet of three large, comfortable passenger vessels that provide daily ferry service and offer access to the best beaches in Mississippi March through October. The 12-mile trip takes about 30 minutes

each way – less time than it would take to drive to Alabama.

The boat ride is part of the experience. The vessels feature outdoor sundecks as well as climate controlled cabins and a bar. It’s also very likely that you will see dolphins on either leg of the trip. Kevin Buckle, director of sales with Ship Island Excursions says, “We take pride in providing a comfortable boat ride, and getting passengers out safely and comfortably.” Ship Island Excursions also offers private charters year-round and is popular for people planning wedding activities, sunset cruises and reunions.

Ship Island Excursions has grown quite a bit over the years. In 2005, Hurricane Katrina caused damage not only to the island but slowed down tourism in general. Buckle reports visitor numbers are back up now, and they see about 60,000 people per year.

“People visiting now seek us out as a destination.

Ship Island has become must-see during a trip to the Mississippi coast,” Buckle says.

If you’re planning a trip, Buckle has some advice.

“We tell people to pack for a day at the beach. Bring your chairs, umbrellas and towels. Small ice chests are allowed. But it’s important not to overpack because it’s a long walk from the boat dock to the

beach.” He also says it’s important to wear a lot of sunscreen because there is no shade on the island.

And if possible, plan your visit on a weekday because weekends are very crowded. Most importantly, he reminds, “prepare to have a great day at the beach.”

The first-rate beach is not the only reason to visit.

Ship Island is home to Fort Massachusetts, a massive Civil War fortress that has an extensive military history. During the war, Ship Island was quickly conquered by Union forces in 1862 and the fort was turned into a prison camp for Confederate prisoners.

The island was then used again as a staging point for the capture of New Orleans. National Park Service rangers provide daily history lectures and tours of Fort Massachusetts.

Buckle says when visitors get to the island, “swimming in the gulf is by far the most popular activity.

People also go fishing, shelling, snorkeling and a lot of people take the time to tour the fort also.” While camping is popular on the other barrier islands, no overnight stays are allowed on West Ship Island.

Ship Island is the ultimate getaway in Mississippi.

It’s affordable and close enough for convenience, but when you reach the shores, it seems you’re a world away from the traffic, noise and hassle.

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. ÂŽ Registered Marks of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, an Association of Independent Blue Cross and Blue Shield Plans.

June 2016 | 17

Beyond Bourbon Street: New Orleans at its finest

Story by Richelle Putnam Photos submitted

T

he city of New Orleans immediately conjures up visions of a “Big Easy� Louisiana city lazily perched on the Mississippi River, near the Gulf of Mexico, that basks in Mardi Gras, Jazz Fest, round-the-clock nightlife, diverse entertainment, and a unique cuisine unmatched by any other culture in the world. However, New Orleans prides itself on being a family destination to explore and experience. Many tours are designed specifically for children and are exciting additions to summer activities. Here are some local favorites recommended by Sarah Forman, Senior Communications Coordinator, New Orleans Convention and Visitors Bureau.

French QuarTour Kids Tours Tiny Tour (kids ages 4-7) - Set in 19th century New Orleans, children explore daily life for kids in New Orleans.

Creole Tour (kids ages 7-12) - The Creole Kids Tour returns you to the “Golden Era” of New Orleans to see what life was like for kids back then: free vs. enslaved, American vs. Creole, boys vs. girls. Children also discover the good, the bad, the weird and the gross (which they love!). (Included are maps, primary sources and props.)

Spooky Tour (kids ages 6-10) - New Orleans captures imaginations and spirits. Kids will search for those spirits in the streets complete with Ghosts, voodoo, swamp monsters, and Creole Mourning.

Teen Tours – On these walking tours, teens examine New Orleans history in the context of 19th century global events surrounded by laws, lifestyles money and makeup. http://www.frenchquartourkids.com/ Audubon Nature Institute created Woldenberg Riverfront Park in 1989—the setting for Audubon Aquarium of the Americas--and founded these other magnificent natural delights.

The Audubon Aquarium of the Americas showcases four major sea life habitats—the Amazon, the Caribbean, the Mississippi River, and the Gulf Coast. The Caribbean Reef is a clear, Plexiglas tunnel kids walk through while sharks and stingrays swim overhead and on both sides of the tunnel. An hourly stage presents penguins and sea otter shows and at Adventure Island, an action-packed interactive play zone; kids get to sit, touch, crawl and climb on the exhibits.

They can also interact with the cownose rays in the 2,600-gallon touch pool.

The Audubon Zoo, located in historic uptown New Orleans, is home to animals from around the globe, where visitors engage in educational programs, handson animal encounters and lush gardens. Unique natural habitat exhibits—such as the award-winning Louisiana Swamp and Jaguar Jungle—showcase the relationship between people and nature. Audubon Zoo has been ranked among the country’s best for innovation and entertainment value.

Audubon Butterfly Garden and Insectarium, located in the U.S. Custom House on Canal Street, encourages the use of all five senses while exploring North America’s largest museum devoted to insects and their relatives. Discover why insects are crucial to all life on our planet; journey through a Louisiana June 2016 | 19

City Park has wide-open outdoor spaces and playgrounds for children to play and to explore nature’s mysteries in the Botanical Garden or Couturie Forest.

Here you’ll find: Storyland – A themed playground filled with 20 largerthan-life storybook sculptures featuring classic fairytale characters.

City Park’s amusement park more than 15 fun rides for kids of all ages, including a historic carousel, one of 100 in the country.

Big Lake - families rent pad-

20 | TOWNANDGOWNMAGAZINE.COM

Photo by Rebecca Radcliff

swamp; and witness thousands of butterflies in an Asian garden.

Entergy Giant Screen Theater offers bigger-than-life excitement. Located next door to Audubon Aquarium of the Americas, Entergy is one of the finest motion picture systems in the world featuring a 4k digital projection system and state-ofthe-art Dolby Atmos multidimensional sound. http://audubonnatureinstitute. org

dleboats or bikes at the boathouse and trek around the track circling the lake or the Louisiana Nature Trail. The Singing Oak, a musical tree filled with wind chimes, was tuned to the Pentatonic scale by artist Jim Hart. http://neworleanscitypark.com Louisiana Children’s Museum is 30,000 square feet of exhibit space, programs, and activities with interactive play. With

support from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, the Museum introduced Katrina Voices, which is a storytelling project and exhibit on display throughout August.

Katrina Voices shares the reflections of 24 children from Orleans, St. Bernard and Jefferson parishes who were ages 4 – 11 at the time of Hurricane Katrina, and today, are ages 14-21. http:// lcm.org/ While in New Orleans, explore a swamp on privately owned boats guided by Louisiana natives. These tours have starred reviews: Munson’s Swamp Tours Tours are taken on pontoon boats into private areas the general public never gets to explore.

Munson Swamp Tours is located off of Bull Run Road, about 40 miles from the center of New Orleans.

Cajun Pride Tours - Aboard a pontoon boat in the Manchac Swamp, the guide discusses wildlife in the refuge and historical events that helped shaped Louisiana.

June 2016 | 21

Westwego Swamp Adventures - Louisiana natives give share the area’s history and the environmental dangers facing the swamps of the Mississippi River.

Honey Island Swamp Tour Named for the honeybees once seen on a nearby island, this tour travels through classic Louisiana swamp where alligators approach the boat for tasty marshmallows. http://louisianaswamp.com These local, favorite activities are recommended by Laura Aronoff, Marketing Coordinator at the New Orleans Tourism Marketing Corporation: A leisurely streetcar ride along St. Charles Ave. A cruise on the Mississippi River via the Steamboat Natchez Aunt Sally’s Pralines or beignets at Café du Monde are culinary musts Spending time in the Garden District- tour with Historic Tours New Orleans, lunch at the classic Commander’s Palace, visit the historic Lafayette Cemetery #1, and shop on Magazine

Street Shopping or dining at the French Market Eating a po-boy or a muffuletta (muffuletta; muffaletta; mufeletta -- (moof-fuh-LEHT-tuh or moo-foo-LE-ta) Nickname - “muff ” Live music at Preservation Hall – an all-ages venue!

Renting bikes through the French Quarter or take a kayak tour through Bayou St. John in Mid-City.

Enjoying snow balls (“Snoballs” as we call them) from Hansen’s or Plum St Snowballs.

Visiting the World War II

Museum Going to the Rock ‘n’ Bowl in Mid-City (live music and bowling).

Dining at Dat Dog and Camellia Grill, two very casual and popular eateries.

Clearly, New Orleans has a multitude of family-friendly places satisfying every age, every interest and every desire. All you have to worry about is getting down there for the fun, excitement, exploration and discovery.

For more New Orleans “kid-friendly” destinations visit http://www.neworleanskids.com/

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June 2016 | 23

Katie Zampini on staying healthy while on vacation

V

acation season is upon us at last. If you have a summer trip planned, chances are you’ve been looking forward to it for months and are ready to unwind with your family and loved ones.

Fitness and nutrition may be far from your mind when you think about what a vacation should entail. After all, vacation is a time to relax and vacate your day-to-day responsibilities. However, unlike a job that you can leave at 5 o’clock every day, your body and its health are going with you on vacation.

Taking care of your body, while also enjoying total relaxation and delicious food splurges, will create a balanced experience and one that will help you come home feeling great.

When it comes to fitness and nutrition, the key thing to remember is that you are the boss; you are the one who decides how you want your vacation to be, whether that is a total relaxation of all your fitness and health goals, pressing full steam ahead or a balance between the two. Whatever you decide, the reality is that our bodies function better in the right conditions. A well-balanced approach to vacation

24 | TOWNANDGOWNMAGAZINE.COM

allows your body to feel better and thoroughly enjoy some relaxation. Read on for some tips on how to find this balance on your vacation so that your body feels its best, but remember: you’re the boss, and this is your vacation! So take what advice suits you and let the rest go. It’s vacation, after all.

Five Simple Ways to Make It a Feel-Good Vacation 1. Increase your water intake. Fruit water can be a refreshing alternative to plain water and may encourage greater intake amounts. Try strawberry basil, lemon, blueberry mint, and other fun combinations.

2. Save your splurges for restaurant meals. Choose whole foods when snacking or preparing your own meals, rather than processed foods which are likely to be high in fat, sugar and calories. You’ll feel more balanced and energetic (and free to splurge on your favorite restaurant meals, sans guilt) when the majority of your food choices have been nutritionally rich. Remember, whole foods are found on the outer aisles of the grocery store, not the center aisles.

Think vegetables, fruit, lean proteins and low-fat

dairy. Check out the list below of snack and whole food ideas that are both healthy and convenient.

3. Scout out restaurants that offer fresh faire, especially for your daytime meals. Many vacation destinations have great juice and smoothie bars, wrap and salad restaurants, etc. Make the choice to visit those destinations for daytime sustenance and feel better all day, saving your splurges for evening meals when you’re more likely to visit sit-down restaurants.

4. Prepare for the travel days. Bring items that can be packed in a cooler if you’re driving, or that are non-perishable if flying. Having the full spectrum of healthy choices available from the grocery store before you hit the road ensures that you have a choice in what to eat on those long travel days.

5. Find thirty minutes a day to be active. On some vacations, physical activity may be built in, such as hiking, swimming, or walking through a theme park.

On vacations where physical activity is not included, consider using one of the fitness apps featured here to get your thirty minutes of activity accomplished.

Some fitness gyms and studios may even have branches at your vacation destination. For example, most YMCAs allow members of other branches to use their facilities free with a guest pass. Lastly, vacation can be a great time to try something new!

Try a fun class you see advertised in the area. You may just come home with a new fitness favorite.

Apps for Staying Fit on the Go Tone It Up: Tone it Up is a free app featuring a wide variety of workouts designed for women. Tone It Up does offer some subscription-based options, but also provides an arsenal of videos you can stream for free, from twelve-minute HIIT workouts to rejuvenating yoga classes, thigh busters, and abdominal intensives, many of which require minimal or no equipment.

Water Logged: Water Logged is a free app that helps you track how much water you’re drinking each day. Just tap the app to log each glass! The app can be set to remind you to drink more water throughout the day.

Grokker: Grokker is an app that requires a subscription fee (after a free two-week trial), and offers a variety of classes taught by expert instructors that can be streamed anytime. Workouts are featured in series ranging from 7-minute HIIT workouts to “Perfect Pilates” to the “21-Day Yoga Body Slim Down” and beyond. The app also features healthy cooking video tutorials. Sure, you pay for this app, but for busy people who love the idea of expert classes that are available on a personally convenient timeline, this may be a solution that lasts long after vacation.

Healthy Convenience Foods Does the idea of choosing whole foods for vacation meals and snacks sound great, except for the aspect that they have to be prepared? There are some great options for whole foods and snacks that are both convenient and healthy, requiring little work. Remember, moms and other caretakers need a vacation too! Here is a short list to get started with some good examples. Make it easy for yourself and your family to eat healthful snacks on vacation.

-Chopped salad kits -Hummus and vegetable trays -Non-fat yogurts and pre-cut fruit -Raw, unsalted almonds (it’s better to roast and season them at home where you have control over the quality and quantity of oil and seasonings you use) -Sweet potato and other baked vegetable chips -Fresh, store-bought salsa with organic chips and/or vegetables

June 2016 | 25

Atlanta, G best place week

Georgia: The to spend a kend

I

Story by Clint Kimberling Photos submitted

f you’re looking for a long weekend getaway this summer, Atlanta has a lot to offer. There’s much more to the city than the world’s busiest airport and Coca-Cola.

There are world class museums, lots of green space and outdoor actives, as well as a first-rate culinary scene.

Atlanta is a very easy 4.5-hour drive from Starkville or a quick one hour flight. But, if you do fly, you should plan to rent a car. While improving, Atlanta’s public transportation is known to be unreliable, and points of interest are spread throughout the city.

Atlanta is a town that knows how to celebrate and is home to several festivals throughout the year. For instance, Atlanta Summer Beer Fest is in June and coming up next month are both an ice cream festival and street food and music fest. When planning your trip check for dates of festivals that may be of interest to you. It will add a great element to your trip.

Festival or no, a long weekend is the perfect amount of time to sample and experience all the city has to offer. If you go, here are a few suggestions for ways to

spend your time.

Atlanta has lots of history to learn about and to experience. Visit The Martin Luther King, Jr., National Historic Site, which is located on over 40 acres in the Sweet Auburn neighborhood.

Here, you can visit Dr. and Mrs. King’s Gravesite as well as take a tour of MLK’s birth home. The nearby Ebenezer Baptist Church, where King was co-pastor with his father, was recently restored and recordings of King’s sermons are played from the pulpit.

And for sports fans, the College Football Hall of Fame is a must-see.

Relocated from South Bend, Indiana in 2009, the Hall of Fame is now located in downtown Atlanta. The museum is huge and includes 50,000 square feet of exhibit space plus a 45-yard indoor football field to test out your skills. The museum exhibits are highly interactive. For instance, you can designate your favorite team, and exhibits throughout the building will offer information on the people and games you care about most. Other highlights include a wall of 700+ vintage helmet designs and a giant HD “behind June 2016 | 27

the scenes” film featuring former players and coaches.

After the museums, you’re going to want to spend some time outside. Check out Piedmont Park – Atlanta’s answer to Central Park. Piedmont is a great place for people watching and is dog-friendly. If you’re in an active mood, there are lots of walking, running and biking trails. Adjacent to the park is the Atlanta Botanical Garden.

The Atlanta BeltLine is an urban renewal project has turned repurposed railway track into a network of parks and trails.

It’s an incredibly popular spot to walk, bike, dine, drink and shop. This is a wonderful way to get some exercise while seeing different parts of the city.

The SkyView Ferris Wheel in Centennial Park will give you amazing views of the city. The Ferris wheel is almost 20 stories

tall and features 42 climate-controlled gondolas providing guests with breathtaking panoramic views of downtown Atlanta. Consider doing this after dinner as Skyview is open late and would allow you to see nighttime sights.

Infuse your trip with some culture by browsing the aisles at Acappella Books which has been an Atlanta mainstay since 1989. Here you can buy, sell and trade books, both new and used, as well as rare and out-of-print titles. Acappella constantly hosts book signings and readings with important and popular authors.

Check their schedule of events for dates when you’ll be in town.

The High Museum is the leading art museum in the Southeast and features a renowned collection of classic and contemporary art. The museum is featuring several exhibitions

that will be on view throughout the summer. Check their exhibit schedule; they are sure to have something awakens your inner art lover.

Atlanta is home to several great restaurants and award-winning chefs. First, the new food halls. Ponce City Market, which is located in an old Sears, Roebuck & Company, is a multi-use development but it’s Central Food Hall features a mix of dine-in restaurants as well as grab and go market stalls.

A great place to eat and browse the storefronts.

And Krog Street Market features sixteen food and beverage outposts, featuring everything from hot dogs to an Asian dumplings stall to a Mexican restaurant. Krog Street Market is located in a nineteenth-century stove warehouse that was previously used by Tyler Perry as

301 Hospital Road • (w) 662-323-3245 (c) 662-418-8877 • www.starkvillesmiles.com June 2016 | 29

a movie studio.

The Varsity is probably Atlanta’s most famous restaurant. They’ve been serving hot dogs and hamburgers to hungry college students, sports fans, tourists and locals since 1928. Truly, this is an Atlanta institution. For the complete experience, order a chili dog and Frosted Orange.

West Egg has been voted Best Breakfast in Atlanta several times. They serve breakfast until 4 p.m. but if you go for brunch on Saturday or Sunday expect a wait. Try the pimento cheese grits. There’s also a bakery with fresh breads, sweets, muffins, scones and coffee cake.

Holeman and Finch is an upscale watering hole with an inventive menu. Visit now because the infamous 10 o’clock burger is now available on their nightly menu. The H&F burger tops several “Best Burger” lists – not just in Atlanta but across the U.S. Finally, Empire State South is owned by Hugh Acheson, of Top Chef fame. This restaurant offers a modern take on classic Southern dishes such as boiled peanut hummus and pimento cheese with bacon marmalade. They are open for breakfast, lunch and dinner and feature a courtyard bocce ball as well as an extensive coffee bar.

June 2016 | 31

Announce your engagement with Town and Gown.Call 662.323.1642 or email editor@townandgownmagazine.com.

February 2015 • 13

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Photo by ExploreAsheville.com

Asheville, North Carolina: The South’s premier destination Story by Joe Lee Photos submitted

C

onsidering that Asheville, North Carolina, is roughly 500 miles from the Golden Triangle, a road trip out that way will take a bit more planning than, say, a visit to Memphis or the Mississippi Gulf Coast. But in addition to having a truly charming and old-world downtown area with a variety of unique shops, the lovely Blue Ridge Mountains loom in the distance and aren’t but an hour away.

For starters, you’ll want to drive along the famous Blue Ridge Parkway. Our country’s longest linear peak, the parkway runs some 469 miles through 29 counties in North Carolina and Virginia (and mostly along the Blue Ridge chain). The Blue Ridge Mountains are actually part of the Appalachians and boast a high elevation of 6,683 feet at Mount Mitchell. While you may not feel like hiking that high into the mountain air, the view is spectacular at any elevation.

A company called Navitat was opened in Asheville several years ago by folks who love trees and adventure so much that they created what they describe as an unprecedented zip-lining experience. The company has expanded into Knoxville with a tree-based adventure park called the Ijams Canopy Experience, and they opened The Blue Ridge Experience – a mountaintop zipline tour – in 2014.

If you’re captivated by the idea of canoeing, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding and fly fishing, get in touch with Headwaters Outfitters and sign up for a river trip. They’ll work with you on when to June 2016 | 33

Photo by ExploreAsheville.com

go – reservations are highly suggested – and how to prepare. And they’ll tell you to pay close attention to the weather, as it can change quickly in mountainous regions.

Following a good night’s sleep after all that excitement, you’ll enjoy a quieter day of browsing some truly interesting shops, like The Chocolate Lab of Asheville. Offering deliciously-created and innovative hand dipped chocolates and truffles, The Chocolate Lab was formed to experiment with a wide variety of chocolate styles and flavor combinations. You’re even invited to stop by and pass along your idea for chocolate that you’d like them to try – they’ll happily experiment in their laboratory.

If you left the kids back home, this would be the time to duck into Spellbound Children’s Bookshop – an independent bookstore just for kids – and grab a surprise gift. The children’s section is literally the entire store, with books for babies through teen readers. They keep a carefully-maintained selection of the best children’s books from yesterday and today, and you’ll also find toys and games based on classic

book characters – which will encourage reading.

Then there’s Thyme in the Garden, which features gifts for the garden and home and wedding arrangements for any season, all prepared with lots of creative thinking and a tremendous sense of fun. Pick up stylish decorative items as well as timely tips for your summer planting, whether it’s a modest flower garden or a full-fledged vegetable garden that’s intended to provide tomatoes, squash, watermelons and more.

Lastly, you deserve an ice-cold adult beverage.

And where better than Highland Brewing, where tours start in their tasting room (adjacent to the brewery) and are set up on a first come, first serve basis. Reservations are not taken, but if you don’t make it in time, no worries – grab a pint and enjoy the tasting room, the deck and the meadow. Their craft beer selection includes Gaelic Ale, St. Terese’s Pale Ale, Highland IPA, Oatmeal Porter, Black Mocha Stout, Early’s Hoppy Wheat, Saw-Whet Saison, and Small Batch Brews.

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Town and Gown’s top places and spaces to visit this summer Story by Richelle Putnam Photos submitted

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n Town and Gown’s last issue, we featured some top family friendly places to go in Mississippi. In this issue, we highlight destinations in the South and possibly a few gems you may not know. The truth is, the South has it all—mountains, beaches, rivers, bayous, bustling cities, forests and national parks and within these incredible scenic destinations are history, cuisine, culture, entertainment, and sporting activities to be enjoyed by everyone.

Virginia Beach, Virginia Here, where high, rolling waves from the Atlantic rush into Virginia Beach, families can enjoy a boat tour narrated by an experienced crew while viewing playful bottlenose dolphins swimming alongside or visit an intriguing underwater world at the Virginia Aquarium where over 300 species are represented and displayed in fun, educational exhibits. Housed in 700,000 gallons of aquarium and animal habitats are cownose rays, harbor seals, otters, loggerhead turtles, sand tiger sharks and even Otters. Located between the Marsh Pavilion and the Bay & Ocean Pavilion of the Aquarium, Adventure Park welcomes visitors to an “aerial forest park,” which are treetops connected by zip lines and aerial trail bridges. First Landing State Park offers more than 19 miles of winding hiking trails. There are guided ecological kayak tours as well as exhibits at the visitor center. Virginia Beach is famous for its boardwalks and historic sites such as the Francis Land House, Cape Henry Lighthouses, Adam Thoroughgood House, Old Coast Guard Station, as well as its diversity in arts and culture, restaurants, and nightlife. Plus, the surrounding area known as Hampton Roads, contains two of the most historically preserved towns in the United States: Jamestown and Colonial Williamsburg. http:// www.visitvirginiabeach.com/ Colonial Williamsburg, Yorktown, Jamestown, Virginia In Colonial Williamsburg, travel back in time and become a colonist in a re-enactment. Here, everything his historic, including the plants, herbs and flowers at Colonial Nursery. But if the kids want to see exhibits that perk adrenaline as well as interest, take them to Ripley’s Believe It or Not! where truth is stranger than fiction.

They’ll find shrunken heads, hands-on activities, a 12ft tall Transformer sculpture made of scrap car parts, an authentic vampire killing kit, and more.

Private themed tours are conducted at Jamestown Settlement and start in the Virginia living history museum where styles from the 17th century are displayed. Costumed interpreters discuss their Powhatan- and English-style clothing.

At the historical clothing shop, visitors can try

their hand at a simple embroidery pattern project. The Archaearium displays some of the two million artifacts from the Jamestown Rediscovery Project that began in 1994.

The Segway tour of Historic Yorktown starts on the bluff near Yorktown Victory Center and goes to the entrance of the National Park Service visitor center near Yorktown Battlefield. Take the two-mile hike along the York River State Park beach where fossils of early whales, porpoises, sharks, clams and scallops can be found, some more than 6,000 years old. Keep one fossil as a souvenir. https:// www.colonialwilliamsburg.com/ Charleston, SC Named after King Charles II of England, Charleston was originally called ‘Charles Towne.’ Today it is the oldest and second largest city in South Carolina, and has adopted the slogan: “Charleston: Where History Lives.” Frequently voted one of the most beautiful

cities in America, ranked by the travel media as one of the top U.S. destinations, and rich in history, Charleston is home to over 1,400 historic buildings, mansions and plantations. One way to experience Charleston is through a narrated boat tour that offers a complete view of the city’s waterfront along with many historical landmarks and points of interest. By land, visitors can tour the original slave cabins at nearby Boone Hall Plantation, one of America’s

oldest working, living plantations, founded by Major John Boone in 1861. At the port of Charleston, close to 200,000 captive Africans were processed, which amounts to almost 40% of all enslaved captives brought into the present day United States. This tour explores capture in Africa, the Middle Passage, processing and sale at the docks in Charleston, and the domestic trade up to 1865 and the roles of enslaved skilled workers, domestics and field hands in the context of antebellum culture, their lifestyles, survival strategies, and handicrafts. The Old City Market was the market where slaves bought items for the plantation, like meat, vegetables and seafood. Today, buy souvenirs, crafts, woven baskets, jewelry, clothing, sweets, and artwork to name a few. https:// www.charleston.com/ Savannah, Georgia The Historic District of Savannah includes art, culture, outdoor cafes, outside events and activities, live theater and excellent restaurants.

Southern hospitality thrives

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in the largest National Historic Landmark District in the United States, twenty city squares of cobblestone streets, museums, churches, mansions, monuments and famous forts of the Revolutionary & Civil War eras. Savannah can be visited any time of year; however, in spring it is vibrant with colorful azaleas and other flora. For families with older kids, don’t miss the Sixth Sense Savannah Ghost Tour, a tourist favorite and the best known walking ghost tour in Savannah. Be sure to book a riverboat cruise to sightsee this magnificent, historical city from the river, feeling the breezes off the river. http://www.savannah. com/ Tybee Island, Georgia With only 3,000 full-time island residents, Tybee Island rarely gets crowded, so visitors taste this relaxed lifestyle by lodging in a local neighborhood home for rent. Also known as Savannah Beach, Tybee Island is located only 18 miles away from historic Savannah, Georgia.

Therefore, visitors get the best of both worlds. Many historians

believe “Tybee” was derived from the Native American Euchee word for “salt,” a natural resource here that played a vital role in the island’s history. Rich in history and natural beauty, Tybee is also known for its diverse cuisine, exceptional accommodations and recreational activities.

Families love exploring the three miles of uninterrupted public beach and the salt marshes filled with birds and wildlife.

Fish from the piers, in the surf, offshore and on deep sea charters. Enjoy the many artistic, historical and cultural offerings,

such as the sounds of local musicians, and explore the 400 years of island history displayed in the Tybee Museum. http://tybeeisland.com Dollywood After graduating high school and heading to Nashville, Dolly Parton vowed that if she became a star, she would come back and help her hometown that lay adjacent to the theme park. In 1986, Dolly purchased the theme park that is now a 150-acre, world-class theme park destination combining rides, water parks and a variety of cultural opportunities for families. Dollywood has become the most-visited attraction in Tennessee and is known for its down-home charm and having something for everyone, so the whole family can experience together. Located in a mountainous hollow adjacent to Dollywood theme park, Dollywood’s Splash Country features a variety of splashy water attractions for both thrill-seekers and pool-loungers. http://www. dollywood.com/ June 2016 | 41

Louisville, KY Louisville lies in north-central

Photo by Louisville CVB

Huntsville, AL Settled in 1805, Huntsville was originally named Twickenham. It was renamed in 1811 after its first settler, John Hunt.

The city’s early history was in cotton but developed another foundation during the race to explore space, which began in 1950 with German rocket scientist Dr. Wernher von Braun. This progressed with the Marshall Space Flight Center on Redstone Arsenal. Huntsville played a crucial role in launching men into space and landing on the moon. That tradition continues today, but “the Rocket City” never forget its historic sites, interactive attractions, arts community, and retail and dining districts. Huntsville often turns family vacations into a recurring family tradition. http://www. huntsville.org/

Kentucky on the Ohio River.

Named for King Louie XVI of France, Louisville is often referred to as the nation’s northernmost southern city or southernmost northern city because of the mix of both cultures.

Though the Louisville Slugger

Photo by Louisville CVB 42 | TOWNANDGOWNMAGAZINE.COM

Museum & Factory holds the world’s largest bat, the most popular sporting event is, of course, horse racing. Every May, Louisville hosts the Kentucky Derby, “the most exciting two minutes in sports.” Louisville is also known for its 120 parks, including the nation’s largest urban forest ( Jefferson Memorial Forest, at 6,000-plus acres) and the 85-acre Waterfront Park downtown. In downtown Louisville, Museum Row on Main is a cluster of nine attractions within a four-block radius. At Kentucky Science Center, visitors enjoy creative, immersive experiences for all ages. The MakerPlace at the Center allows visitors to create inventions and learn how to use tools like laser cutters and 3D printers. http://www. gotolouisville.com Memphis, TN Called the home of the Blues, Memphis has big city energy and old-fashioned Southern charm. Sites include Graceland, once home to rock ‘n’ roll legend

Elvis Presley, The Peabody, where the famous Peabody ducks waddle down a red carpet on their way to the hotel’s lobby fountain, and the National Civil Rights Museum filled with interactive exhibits where kids can climb aboard a city bus for a Rosa Parks experience or walk through a model of the very first supermarket, the Piggly Wiggly. Named for an ancient Egyptian city, Memphis boasts its own 320foot pyramid right on the riverbank, which is two-thirds the size of the world’s largest pyramid in the Middle-Eastern city of Memphis. The best way to explore the Mighty Mississippi bordering the western edge of Memphis is to take an excursion trip on a paddlewheel steamship. http://www.memphistravel.com/ Sanibel and Captiva Islands Sanibel Island and Captiva Island were once one island until a fierce storm caused rising waters to split them into two. Sanibel is the larger island and guests have to travel through Sanibel to get to the smaller island of Captiva. Less than an hour from Fort Myers, Sanibel and Captiva represent the Florida of yesteryear. Sanibel is considered one of the three best shelling beaches in the world, with seashells from more than 400 species on its 20-mile shoreline. Inland, a tropical paradise known as the “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, a 5,000-acre wetland, is home to alligators and numerous shorebirds like the heron, pelican, ibis, egret and stork. Other activities include biking around the Sanibel lighthouse, a boat ride to see dolphins and manatees, and touring the Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum, the only museum in the world dedicated to seashells. Families return year after year to this island getaway. http://sanibel-captiva.org/

Photo by Louisville CVB

Photo by Louisville CVB June 2016 | 43

churn it up! gourmet ice cream shop to open in starkville Story by Joe Lee Photos submitted

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pening an ice cream shop next door to a gourmet coffeehouse might raise a few eyebrows in some quarters, as the clientele that enjoys a tasty cuppa Joe might differ greatly from those that bring the kiddos for an ice cream cone after Little League practice. But to Shane and Katelyn Reed, owners of Strange Brew Coffeehouse – and the brand-new Churn and Spoon – each day means an opportunity to mix healthy doses of creativity with heaping servings of fun.

“The best part about Churn and Spoon is that are an actual creamery,” Katelyn said. “We make all of our ice cream, sorbets and yogurts in Starkville.

We are excited about using tons of local ingredients like Fat Mama’s Margarita Mix, milk from Philadelphia and sweet potatoes from Vardaman. We make all our brownies, caramel sauces and sprinkles in house.

“We have some crazy, never-seen-before flavor combinations that are out of this world, and we have gluten-free, dairy-free, low sugar and vegan options available. We’re focusing on four main types of frozen treats and will have a few creative extras like ice cream cakes and ice cream sandwiches, too.”

Shane, a Mississippi State University graduate with a degree in Archaeology, opened Strange Brew just over a decade

ago in the building that housed Woody’s convenience store (which was owned by his parents). He and Katelyn completely renovated the venue before opening Churn and Spoon. They are located adjacent to Chick Fil A on U.S. 12.

“We have actually been making ice cream for a while, and we always come up with amazing combinations,” Katelyn said. “Some of our favorites are Butterbeer Sorbet, Albino Squirrel Ice Cream (made from hazelnut, white chocolate and coffee), and The Breakup (including chocolate-covered potato chips, caramel and cookie dough).

“We very much enjoy the freedom of having a locally-owned business like Strange Brew, where we can play with unique flavor combinations, can source local ingredients, and can really serve our customers by creating drinks they request and love. It was really a no-brainer to apply the same principles to our love of ice cream.”

The confluence of gourmet coffee and homemade ice cream will really be felt in an ice cream flavor featuring the couple’s Mississippi Roasted Cold Brew coffee and their blueberry cobbler-flavored drip blend.

“We love it when people come visit both (businesses),” Shane said. “We don’t have a specific target audience. We often get sports teams, visiting teams playing MSU, families, kids, students and daycare (kids).

All are welcome. Our biggest challenge is trying not to eat up all the ice cream each day.”

Shane has a powerful social media presence, with over 20,000 followers, and he and Katelyn will be making good use of social platforms to get the word out about Churn and Spoon. Find them on Facebook, Instagram and at www.churnandspoon.com.

“He’s a genius at social media,” Kate said of her husband. “We will focus on using Instagram to really get some amazing pics of our ice cream out there. We have the privilege of selling the best coffee in Mississippi, and (now) some local ice cream goodness.”

beyond the page: susan o’bryan’s june book review

“Sarah Booth Delaney and her friends are still recovering from the attack on Scott Hampton’s blues club in Zinnia, Mississippi, and Sarah Booth herself is still overcoming her grief at ending things with her fiancé. One bitterly cold night at her family’s ancestral home in Zinnia, Sarah Booth hears what sounds like a kitten as she passes the front door. She opens the door to find a newborn baby in a basket on her front porch - with bloody footsteps leading up to the door and back down the driveway. As soon as she steps outside, a loud engine guns and a dark colored vehicle takes off. It’s too far away for Sarah Booth to get a good look, and besides, the baby is now her first priority.” - From Goodreads.com

This is one of my favorite times of the year despite the cough-inducing pollen and popup afternoon storms. This is the time when everything’s blooming, including a variety of works by Southern authors.

Some are more commercially known while others are still building their fan base.

John Grisham traditionally waits until fall for his next legal novel, and Greg Iles’ latest isn’t due out until next year. That gives plenty of time to experience, and appreciate, other writers with roots in the South.

Two of the more commercially successful authors with releases this season are Carolyn Haines and Nevada Barr. Barr moved from metro Jackson to New Orleans to pursue her writing and painting careers. Haines, a Mississippi native, has transplanted to Mobile, Ala., where she teaches fiction writing at the University of South Alabama.

Haines is well known for her high-spirited Mississippi Delta mystery series featuring Sarah Booth Delaney and an entourage of quirky friends, pets and old souls. Her latest novel, “Rock-a-Bye Bones,” is the 16th to follow Sarah Booth into another adventure.

When an abandoned baby and bloody footprints are left on her doorstep, it’s up to Sarah Booth to track down the mom.

Tinkie Richmond, her partner at the Delaney Detective Agency, wants to help, but she also yearns to keep the baby as her own. What’s a Southern girl to do, especially when the resident ghost, Jitty, is hounding her to wed and produce?

The “Bones” books, as referred since each has the word in the title, are not filled with graphic sex or violence. Instead, they build on the quirky characters in small-town Zinnia. I look forward to each addition and finding out what they’re up to in their make-believe personal lives as well as their criminal-catching escapades.

Haines also writes southern gothic tales under the pen name of R.B. Chesteron.

Barr is the award-winning author of the Anna Pigeon mystery series showcasing the national park system. “Boar Island” is the 19th novel featuring the hard-edged national park ranger who finds danger and mystery wherever she goes. Barr herself is a former park ranger, and she builds upon real-life experiences, places and people to bring Anna to life.

As she starts her post at Acadia National Park in Maine, Anna gets a desperate call from her friend Heath Jarrod, who needs helps for her adopted teenage daughter Elizabeth. The girl is being spooked by nasty rumors and online bullying.

Anna invites the mom, teen and an aunt to stay with her on Boar Island in the Acadia. Unfortunately, the stalker comes, too.

When dead people start turning up in the park, Anna does what she does best – solve the mystery with cunning and stealth.

Another southern author who is climbing my “favorites” chart is Brad Watson, author of “Miss Jane.” The Mississippi native, now a creative writing instructor at the University of Wyoming in Laramie, has published several award-winning novels and short-story collections, but “Miss Jane” is something out of the ordinary.

Based on the true story of his great-aunt, Watson introduces us to Jane Chisolm, born in rural 1915 Mississippi. She is burdened by a secret – a genital birth defect that keeps her mostly embarrassed and isolated. Sex, marriage and parenthood are not options.

Within her limited world, Jane fights to find her place her voice - among the loneliness,

melancholy and beauty of the South. Her physical traits do not define who she is as a person.

While she can’t enjoy physical love, Jane embraces what she can – independence, love for the family farm and inner peace.

Yes, life is hard for Jane, but it’s not empty. Readers will fall in love with this character and the approach she takes to life.

Watson leaves his audience feeling richer and uplifted after meeting Miss Jane.

If you’re in the mood something more personal in the non-fiction area, check out “Things Like the Truth: Out of My Later Years” by Ellen Gilchrist. The award-winning poet, novelist and essayist, born in Vicksburg, now shares her time between teaching at the University of Arkansas and en-

tertaining her large family at an Ocean Springs summer home.

In her latest collection, Gilchrist presents more than 50 essays about life, family, aging and change. Her words, whether about grandchildren or life after Hurricane Katrina, stand out with passion, honesty and humor. If you’ve read any of her earlier works, you’ll want to continue sharing Gilchrist’s stories of her later life.

Other outstanding memoirs and biographies include Martha Wyatt-Rossignol’s “My Triumph Over Prejudice” and “Delta Rainbow: The Irrepressible Betty Bobo Pearson” by Sally Palmer Thomason. Both illustrate the personal strength needed to stand up to Old South prejudices.

Wyatt-Rossignol recounts

life as a black girl growing up in Mississippi during the civil rights era. Her frustrations came from all directions, including many black leaders. Finally, after many years and a relocation to Bermuda, the author fills the scars of that volatile time in history beginning to heal.

Standing up for civil rights was a struggle also for whites, as Thomason points out in her tribute to Betty Bobo Pearson.

Born in 1922 to Mississippi plantation aristocracy, Betty struck out from an early age to make the world a better place.

After college and a turn as a Marine, she returned as mistress of a Delta plantation. As readers will learn, this spirited “Southern Belle” blazed her own trail for civil rights despite the challenges of that time in history.

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Taste & Toast: Southern Classics Recipes and photos by Lisa Bynum

Buttermilk Biscuits with Sausage Gravy

sugar, baking soda, baking powder and salt.

For the biscuits: 2 cups all-purpose flour 1 tablespoon sugar 1/4 teaspoon baking soda 2 teaspoons baking powder 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup chilled unsalted butter or shortening 3/4 to 1 cup cold buttermilk

4. 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.

For the sausage gravy: 1 pound pork sausage 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour 1-1/2 cups milk Salt and pepper to taste For the biscuits:

3. Cut butter into mixture until it resembles course crumbs.

5. Turn dough out onto a floured surface. Lightly knead 10 times.

Roll or pat dough to 1/2-inch thickness. Cut into disks using a 2 to 2-1/4- inch round cutter.

6. Place on a greased cookie sheet about one inch apart.

1. Preheat oven to 450 degrees.

7. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until golden brown. Serve warm.

2. In a large bowl, combine flour,

Makes 6-8 biscuits.

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For the sausage gravy: 1. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium heat. Break up sausage into pieces with a spoon and cook until it is no longer pink. Remove sausage from the skillet. Be sure to reserve any leftover grease.

2. Add flour to the grease, one tablespoon at a time. Whisk between each addition to combine with grease and remove lumps.

3. Reduce heat to medium.

4. Gradually add milk, stirring constantly, until mixture begins to thicken to desired consistency.

Stir sausage back into the pan.

5. Season gravy with salt and pepper.

Southern Sweet Tea 3 quarts cold water 4 regular black tea bags 1 ½ cups granulated sugar 1. Bring water to a rolling boil in a large pan. Add tea bags.

Reduce heat and simmer for two minutes. Remove from heat and allow to sit for 10-15 minutes.

2. Remove tea bags and add sugar. Stir until sugar is dissolved.

Add enough cold water to make a gallon.

Serves 4-6

Banana Pudding 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour 1 Âź cups granulated sugar, divided

1/8 teaspoon salt 6 tablespoons water 3 egg yolks 4 cups heavy cream, divided 1 stick unsalted butter 1 teaspoon vanilla 4 large bananas 4 cups vanilla wafers 1. In a double boiler, mix together the flour, 1 cup of sugar, and salt. Add water and stir until mixture forms a paste.

4. Let cool.

5. Arrange vanilla wafers in a single layer on the bottom of a 9 x 13 x 2 inch casserole dish. Slice bananas and layer over vanilla wafers.

6. Pour vanilla pudding mixture over bananas and vanilla wafers.

7. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 6-8 hours.

2. In a separate bowl, lightly beat eggs and three cups of heavy cream. Stir into paste.

8. Before serving, beat remaining heavy cream on high with an electric mixer. Slowly add sugar.

3. Allow mixture to simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring constantly, until thickened. Remove from heat. Add butter and vanilla, stirring until butter has melted.

9. Continue to beat until still peaks form.

10. Spread whipped cream over pudding.

Serves 8-10

Town and Gown’s Summer Fashion

Photos by Divian Conner • Make up by Merle Norman Luna Bella • Clothes provided by Giggleswick, Aspen Bay, Susan’s Hallmark and Liza Tye and Company

Outfit provided by: Liza Tye and Company

Outfit provided by: Aspen Bay

Outfit provided by: Susan’s Hallmark

Outfit provided by: Giggleswick

Outfit provided by: Aspen Bay

Outfit provided by: Liza Tye and Company

Outfit provided by: Giggleswick

Outfit provided by: Liza Tye and Company

Outfit provided by: Giggleswick

Outfit provided by: Aspen Bay

Outfit provided by: Susan’s Hallmark

Clothes provided by:

Magnolia Film Festival Photos by Ashley Covin

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1. Aishwarya Ananthakrishnan, Rachel Oh, Priyanka Prakash and Abbey Malatesta 2. Dawn Bullion and Lynda Addington 3. Jan Vardoen and Justin Sandler 4. Jana Ladner and Frank Ladner 5. Sara Wadford and Angella Baker 6. Wendy Keeling and Elizabeth Graves

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Cotton District Arts Festival Pet Parade Photos by Margaret McMullen

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1. Brooke Armstrong with Luke, Know, Payton and Charlee Milligan 2. Diania Heath,Odin and Camille Black With Cooper 3. Brie and Ben with Gene 4. Mike and Jill Ferguson with Woodstock 5. Jett Wilson and Rosie 6. Oathe Blanch and Chanel

June 2016 | 79

SEC Softball Tournament Photos by Margaret McMullen

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1. Kayleigh Ann Prince, Keelie Dabbs and Conner Dabbs 2. Anna Jo Bonds, Lori Li Miller and Josh Bonds 3. Ella Wiginton and Claire Wiginton 4. Kade and Maddie Moody 5. Braden Smith, Beth Shea and Richard Shea 6. Bobby Tomlinson and Dr. Mike Mabry

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Cotton District Arts Festival Photos by Camille Watts

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1. Will Malone and Casey Smith 2. Kristina Berch, Marlaina Berch and Chris Tucker 3. Tyler Crosland, Raysha Crosland and Baker Crosland 4. Laura Kate Tribble and Camille Carskadon 5. Shannon Stoker, Jamie Lucius and Ann Ivy Lucius 6. Brett Booth, Stacie Booth, Grace Harrington, Zack Harrington and Hunter Harrington June 2016 | 81

King Cotton Crawfish Boil Photos by Keats Voges-Haupt

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1. Conner Whitten and Rob Lishman 2. Ronald Cambell and Sabrina Cambell 3. Megan Pratt, Mary Katheryn Killingsworth and Al Killingsworth 4. Corimme Schilling and Arielle Stallings 5. Arin Hanohano and Kelsie Hanohano 6. Jack Day and Leslie Higginbothom

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Our staff now offers you a of Quality Care Dr. Ramon Osorio gets that two knowledgeable caregivers are better than one. He also knows and understands the importance of providing patients access to timely care.

That’s why he’s added a certified family nurse practitioner to the OCH Medical Associates’ clinical team!

The Clinic is pleased to offer their patients high-quality, compassionate care under the direction of this outstanding duo. A board-certified internal medicine physician, Dr. Osorio serves as the Clinic’s medical director. As a nurse practitioner working in collaboration with Dr. Osorio, Meg Peterson treats both chronic and acute conditions, prescribes medications, provides health counseling and teaching, as well as assists with in-clinic testing and procedures as needed. She received her nursing degree from Mississippi University for Women in 2008 and earned her master’s degree in nursing from there in 2011.

She is especially interested in the management of diabetes, hypertension and cholesterol. A nurse first and foremost, Meg prides herself in caring for the whole patient — mind, body and spirit.

Together, Osorio and Peterson provide a quality of care second to none!

General medicine Respiratory disease Vascular and heart disease Blood problems Kidney problems Joint and rheumatologic problems Digestive problems Endocrine and hormonal problems Infectious disease Mental health Diabetes

(662) 615-3771

107 Brandon Road • Starkville, MS

Meg Peterson, FNP-C and Ramon L. Osorio, MD