TOWN &GOWN May 2016
Summer Fashions! Keeping Mississippi Wild Top Family Friendly Places
The Picnic Perfect Recipes!
Take a peek at what’s inside! 8
Calendar
10
Wishlist
12
Visit Jackson: The perfect place to spend a weekend
17
Tupelo, Mississippi: More than just Elvis
20
Starkville Girl Scouts Honor Women of Distinction
31
MSU Grads Launch Akimbo Games
35
Town and Gown’s Top Festivals Around Mississippi
38
Mississppi Profile: Donald Jackson
41
The Best Family Friendly Places in Mississippi
55
The Perfect Picnic Recipes
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20
Keeping Mississippi Wild
60
Summer Fashions
48
Health: Fresh From the Farmer’s Market
72
Events
Don’t these peaches look amazing? Turn to page 48 to get some great tips on what do to with all of that great food that you get at the farmer’s markets!
On the cover. . . Turn to page 60 to begin our picnic fashion spread. A special thanks to Aspen Bay, Giggleswick, Gypster Veil, Susan’s Hallmark and Liza Tye for letting us use their clothes. Merle Norman Luna Bella did make up and Mia Salon did hair! Thank you!
Follow us on Instagram to see more shots from our photoshoots, articles from our current issue, our Friday Faves and so much more!
May 2016 | 5
When I was a kid, my family was really big on taking summer vacations. Laura Kate and I were lucky to have two parents who were teachers because it meant vacations could be long and carefree during the summer. Since some of us weren’t too keen on flying, vacations always meant we were driving somewhere. One time, I couldn’t have been more than seven or so, we were driving around a bigger town (probably the one the size of Starkville, but for me, I might as well have been in NYC) when my sister pointed outside and asked what those big poles were sticking out of the ground in front of the parking spaces. I, always in an unspoken competition with my older sister, haughtily announced those were thermometers taking the temperature of the air outside. I’m sure our parents had to hold back laughter as they explained that those were actually parking meters. My father even pulled over and made us get out the car so he could demonstrate and explain just how parking meters worked. I have so many memories of going places with my family. We’ve been as far west as Washington and as far east as New York, but you don’t have to go out of state to have a great vacation. In this issue you will find all sorts of places you can visit right here in Mississippi. In these pages you will find our top family friendly places throughout Mississippi. From taking a boat out to Ship Island to visiting Vicksburg’s Military Park, we have created the perfect guide for you. You will also find some of the best festivals to attend throughout Mississippi, which are sure to keep you and your family busy all summer. If you are wanting to stick a little closer to home, the Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge is always a great place to go. You can even pack a picnic and try the delicious recipes created by our very own Lisa Bynum. What ever your plans are this summer, you’re sure to have a great time when you spend it with those you love.
Camille Watts
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Town and Gown’s Liza Tye and Company 511 Academy Road Starkville, MS 39759 662.617.8220
Thyme 402 E. Lampkin Street Starkville, MS 39759 662.323.5979
Giggleswick 200 MS-12 Starkville, MS 39759 662.323.4438
Merle Norman Luna Bella 500 Russell Street Starkville, MS 39759 662.323.5255
Susan’s Hallmark 100 Russell Street #15 Starkville, MS 39759 662.324.0810
Liza Tye and Company 511 Academy Road Starkville, MS 39759 662.617.8220
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May Favorites Thyme 402 E. Lampkin Street Starkville, MS 39759 662.323.5979
Merle Norman Luna Bella 500 Russell Street Starkville, MS 39759 662.323.5255
Susan’s Hallmark 100 Russell Street #15 Starkville, MS 39759 662.324.0810
Merle Norman Luna Bella 500 Russell Street Starkville, MS 39759 662.323.5255
Giggleswick 200 MS-12 Starkville, MS 39759 662.323.4438
Liza Tye and Company 511 Academy Road Starkville, MS 39759 662.617.8220 May 2016 | 11
Visit Jackson: The perfect place to spend a weekend Article by Joe Lee Photos submitted
You’ve seen it before. The kids can’t wait for the school year to end and constantly talk about what a glorious summer it’s going to be, but within days of the spring semester ending you’re hearing, “Mom, I’m bored! Can’t we do something fun?” 12 | townandgownmagazine.com
There are many exciting things to do in metro Jackson that involve the whole family, especially if you’re operating on a budget and prefer a day trip. And while a weekend jaunt is fine, a weekday just might break up the routine – and minimize the complaining. Start by packing a cooler with a picnic lunch and have the troops dressed and ready to go after breakfast. With Jackson 100-150 miles from towns around the Golden Triangle, you’re looking at a trip of 2-3 hours and one tankful of gas or less. It’s an easy drive down Mississippi 25 to your first destination: Winner’s Circle Park in Flowood. Look for Old Fannin Road (a major intersection that includes Dogwood Festival Market) and turn right. The park, which sits on 7.5 acres, is half a mile away and easy to find. “For the last three years, the park has been the recipient of the Best Park in Mississippi Award (as chosen by Mississippi Magazine’s People’s Choice Awards),” said Greg Wilcox, Director of Programs and Events for the City of Flowood. “(We promise) safety, cleanliness and lots to do for all ages, with picnic tables, a pavilion and lots of playground equipment.
“We have a half-mile walking track and open courts for tennis. And right behind Flowood Elementary School (adjacent to the park), you can go up the bike trail and onto a one-mile hiking trail that goes through the woods. By far, (the park) is one of the best in the state, as far as having a nature trial inside the city limits.” From there, you’re less than 15 minutes from the Mississippi Children’s Museum, located on Riverside Drive in Jackson. Simply drive back out to Mississippi 25, turn right and head west – the highway becomes Lakeland Drive – and you’ll go almost all the way to Interstate 55 when you hit a traffic light at Smith-Wills Stadium. Turn left onto Riverside Drive and follow the signs to the museum, which is less than a mile away. “We will be hosting a traveling exhibit,
‘Thomas and Friends: Explore the Rails,’ this summer,” said Susan Garrard, President and CEO of the Mississippi Children’s Museum. “This will definitely be one of the highlights of our summer because of the popularity of Thomas and Friends. I imagine we’ll have quite a few fans both young and told who’ll be interested in visiting this summer. “Our splash pad will be on during the summer, (which) families especially seem to enjoy on hotter days, and we will be open for ‘Magic
Mondays’ during June and July—this is a first for us, and we hope this will give families who are traveling more of a chance to visit.” Afterward, load everyone up and head to the Jackson Zoo. Retrace your steps back to Lakeland Drive, turn left, and drive to Interstate 55. Take the southbound exit and be sure to get in the far right lane – you’ll only be on the interstate a matter of seconds. You’ll merge onto Woodrow Wilson Avenue and stay there 15-20 minutes as you go toward west Jackson. Signs to the zoo are everywhere once you get close. “We have a new Bornean orangutan – a baby male – born in November,” said E.J. Rivers, Membership and Media Specialist for the Jackson Zoo. “We have two baby signets (baby swans) floating around in duck ponds. We have two fishing cats – an
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endangered Asian cat species – that are about three times the size of a housecat, or half the size of a cougar. They love to be in the water. “We’re all about conservation, and saving the world’s fauna and flora for future generations. It’s not just kid entertainment here – it’s about kids learning about animals and the world and the planet. We’re for all ages. It really does bring back memories, and appeals to the kid in you for every age. Either the Livingston Train or our carousel runs seven days a week.” Lastly, how about a trip to Trustmark Park to catch the Mississippi Braves? From the
zoo, retrace your steps back out to Woodrow Wilson and find your way back to Interstate 55. Go southbound and make sure you head east (toward Meridian) when you reach Interstate 20. Pearl is five minutes away, and you’ll take the only Pearl exit, which is Pearson Road. Turn left, come back under the interstate, and follow the signs to the ballpark – which you’ll have already spotted from the interstate. “We’re the home for family entertainment, and a lot of good Atlanta Braves baseball talent comes right through here,” said General Manager Steve DeSalvo. “We have fireworks every Friday and
Saturday night after the games. We have giveaways and mascots and contests. There’s a Fun Zone and inflatables for the kids to play during the games. And fans will see a greater variety of food this year than they’ve seen in the past. I’d say a family of four can get food and tickets for $50-$60.” After the game, get back out on Interstate 20 and travel west until you hit Interstate 55, which you’ll follow northbound for less than ten minutes until you reach Lakeland Drive. You’re two hours from home at that point, give or take, and there’s a good chance your little ones – as tired as they’ll be – will sleep most of
the trip home. There’s an even better chance they’ll have some fantastic memories of their trip to Jackson, as will you. For more information about Winner’s Circle Park, visit www.visitmissippi.org For hours, ticket information, and summer camp info at the Mississippi Children’s Museum, visit www.mschildrensmuseum.org For hours, ticket information, and summer camp info at The Jackson Zoo, visit www.jacksonzoo.org For a Mississippi Braves game schedule and ticket information, visit www.mississippibraves.com May 2016 | 15
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Tupelo, Mississippi: More than just Elvis, but he’s great, too Article by Richelle Putnam Photos submitted
Tupelo, Mississippi is probably best known as the birthplace of the King of Rock and Roll and the place visitors go to see the house where Elvis was born and the church where he first sang, but there is a lot more to Tupelo than just Elvis. Here are a few more things to do while visiting this beautiful city. May 2016 | 17
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Jennie Bradford Curlee, who for four years has served as public relations and international sales director of Tupelo Convention and Visitor’s Bureau, explained that because of this and Tupelo’s proximity to Memphis and Graceland, Tupelo has become an international destination. However, she added, Tupelo is also the perfect vacation spot for Mississippians. “We are definitely a family friendly destination, whether you come to check out the museums or spend time outside and shop and enjoy good food,” said Jennie Bradford. As headquarters of the Natchez Trace Parkway, the Visitor’s Center at Tupelo includes an
Interpretive Center and Hiking Trail. The Buffalo Park and Zoo is one of Tupelo’s biggest attractions for families, as well as one of the largest zoos in the state with over 260 animals. The Monster Bison Bus takes visitors out into the fields where the animals roam freely. “You come face to face with a lot of those animals, like the buffalos and zebras,” said Jennie Bradford. In downtown Tupelo, the Gumtree Museum of Art offers various exhibits throughout the year and just down the street is Caron Gallery, which specializes in Mississippi Art. With an award-winning community theatre, a Ballet company and
the North Mississippi Symphony, Tupelo provides an incredible arts experience for the entire family. The Healthworks! Kids Museum is one of two health-related children’s museums in the country. On the Tupelo website, a community calendar of events can be searched by the dates you’ll be visiting Tupelo. Prospective visitors are encouraged to build their own trip, make hotel reservations through the website, and then email themselves a copy of the itinerary, said Jennie Bradford. “There’s something for everybody here in Tupelo.” http://tupelo.net/
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Starkville’s Girl Scout Troops Celebrate Women of Distiction Article by Joe Lee Photos by Ashley Covin
The mission of Girl Scouts Heart of the South (GSHOS) is to build girls of courage, confidence and character – girls who make the world a better place. For the past five years, GSHOS has proudly presented an annual Women of Distinction luncheon in the Lafayette County area, and on Friday, April 1 at the First Baptist Church Outreach Center in Starkville, GSHOS hosted the first annual Women of Distinction luncheon in the Golden Triangle area.
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Nationally, over 20 percent of girls from 5-18 years of age live in poverty, including almost half in the Mid-South region. GSHOS provides girls with the resources that allow them to develop leadership skills and positive behavioral traits that are necessary to help break the cycle of poverty, and keep them from risky behaviors such as gang membership, drug use and teen pregnancy. The GSHOS Women of Distinction luncheon seeks to recognize purpose-driven women in business, government and philanthropy who – like the Girl Scouts – are dedicated to service and leadership. The nominees in the Golden Triangle are outstanding women whose accomplishments will hopefully inspire local girls to achieve their dreams and goals. “The luncheon is done to honor women and raise money for the Girl Scouts,” said Caroline Skelton, GSHOS Recruitment and Community Engagement Specialist and a graduate of Mississippi State University. “I was involved in Girl Scouts in Collierville, Tennessee, which is still associated with this council. “My troop allowed me to meet different girls in the Collierville area and not ones I would have (met otherwise). I’ve held many leadership roles which could be credited to my early experience in Girl Scouts.” Visit www.girlscoutshs.org/womenofdistinction to find a local Girl Scout troop, and to learn more about GSHOS and the annual Women of Distinction luncheon.
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DR. SHEILA ADAMS “As I child, I was involved in four years (in Girl Scouts) in Bristol, Virginia. We had the meetings at our house. (The experience) was something that helped me learn about leadership and giving back to the community. I learned the importance of working together in teams, and (the value of) what each person could contribute based on their own unique set of talents.”
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LEOTA CARDWELL “I was the troop organizer for Oktibbeha County and a scout leader for both of my daughters in the 1960s. They learned to get along with other girls and to love each other, do what they needed to do in the community, and sell Girl Scout Cookies. We had as many girls as we could crowd in a room – probably 30. I remember the Girl Scout Cookies being sold for 25 cents a box.”
ANNE STRICKLIN “I was a Girl Scout here in Starkville for nine years. My mom was one of my troop leaders, and my troop became my circle of friends throughout school. One lesson in Scouts is that everyone has a role to play and all those roles are shared equally. Being a leader isn’t always about taking charge, but more about allowing others the opportunity to rise up and lead in the areas where they are gifted.”
DEBORAH MANSFIELD “I was a Girl Scout for two years in Ohio. My fondest memory was looking through the scout book and listing all of the badges that I wanted to get and then figuring out how to achieve them. This was a great lesson, teaching the process of how to reach your goals.”
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JULIE BROWN “The Girl Scout Law continues to be the foundation that reminds me of my promise to be trustful, loyal, honest, cheerful, and – most importantly – kind to others. When my husband was stationed on a NATO base in the Netherlands, I had the wonderful experience of being a Brownie Scout leader to their group, which allowed me to ‘pay it forward.’”
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TAMMIE TUBBS “I am a Girl Scout at heart who believes wholeheartedly the Girl Scout Law. I’ve had the privilege to have two wonderful mentors – Gloria Conley and Elmarie Brooks – who served countless years as Girl Scout Leaders. The most important thing I learned from both ladies: be a role model that others will remember. You only get one chance to make a first impression.”
ANNE MCWHORTER
RENEE SANDERS
As a volunteer for the Girl Scouts, Anne took on numerous roles when the organization needed help: troop leader, trainer, camp counselor, Counselor-InTraining Director, Camp Director and more. During the Christmas season, she always made sure that her troop would adopt a family in need and provide Christmas for them.
In addition to being the Director of the Volunteer Center with the United Way of Lowndes County, Renee is a mentor to the youth group at her church and helps fellow church members receive Vacation Bible School training so they can acquire the skills needed to inspire others. She also reaches out to students at East Mississippi Community College and encourages them to give back through volunteerism.
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Keeping Mississippi Wild: Wildflower Trail to Open Article by Richelle Putnam Photos submitted
Mississippi has many native wildflowers, but these days, they can be tough to find, said Justin Fritscher, volunteer of Wildflower Trails of Mississippi, a new program of Keep Mississippi Beautiful. Under the umbrella of Keep American Beautiful, several other states have adopted similar wildflower programs, such as “The Bluebonnets of Texas.” So Sarah Kountouris, Executive Director of Keep Mississippi Beautiful, wanted to do the same thing for Mississippi and have wildflowers growing on the shoulders and medians of interstates. In the past, MDOT (Mississippi Department of Transportation) had planted wildflowers, but Sarah felt that Mississippi could do more. “Two years ago, I started working on this project, and the Board of Directors embraced it.” The mission of the project is to help bring wildflowers back and sow the seeds to ensure that future generations can appreciate the sights and smells of wildflowers. The vision of the project is to have wildflowers lining major roadways from north to south, east to west. With 36 certified Keep Mississippi Beautiful affiliates across the state, Wildflowers of Mississippi is the perfect project for these communities. Ground has been prepped in several areas around the state and will be planted soon, explained Sarah. One is a 7-mile section in Simpson County, and another section is in Crystal Springs, Copiah County. Both counties are affiliates of the program as is the City of Hattiesburg. Keep Ridgeland Beautiful, a progressive affiliate of the project, is planting a three-acre plot just off the interstate. “Besides the natural beauty wildflowers bring to the state, they help the environment, and the pollination process needed to help our food grow. Wildflowers also promote tourism in the state.” Because the project is new, resources are limited. Therefore, explained Justin, “we are prioritizing places with high visibility and where we have local partners.” Wildflower Trails of Mississippi works with a network of affiliates and local soil and water conservation districts to help select these project sites. The Project also works closely with Mississippi State University Extension Service in selecting wildflower and native grass species that provide colorful blooms and foliage throughout the year. “These flowers and grasses also grow well together, making management easier when it comes to out-competing undesirable species,” said Justin. “Native plants are conditioned to thrive here in Mississippi, requiring less water, proving more re-
sistant to pests and drought and providing valuable habitat for birds, butterflies, bees and other critters.” Partners include the Natural Resources Conservation Service, MSU Extension Service, Entergy, Mississippi Soil and Water Conservation Commission, Mississippi Department of Transportation and Mississippi Association of Conservation Districts. However, the project must rely on communities for manpower and machinery. “We are so grateful for all of the Mississippians who help us clean and green our state,” said Justin. “A huge thanks to Dr. Brett Rushing at MSU Extension Service for coming up with our seed mix and for teaching us so much about wildflowers.” Individuals can plant wildflowers in their yards as well, said Sarah. “We hope that rural communities will participate, and we’ll see wildflowers growing on farmland and interchanges.” Individuals interested in being involved can find volunteer opportunities on the Wildflowers of Mississippi website. Communities interested in establishing wildflower plantings should contact Sarah at Keep Mississippi Beautiful or through Wildflower Trails of Mississippi through its website. The typical process is for local affiliates or the district to get
local officials on board. “We will do our best to connect those communities with resources, such as seeds and advice for maintenance and selecting seeds,” said Justin. Sarah said the project was budgeting for signage so that everyone, including grass cutters, will easily recognize a wildflower area and not mow it down. Environmental education is an integral part of Wildflowers Trails of Mississippi to teach our children the importance of keeping Mississippi beautiful and various ways to keep the landscape healthy. “We are working on the educational component and are hoping to have a good educational piece to take to the Department of Education,” said Sarah. Wildflowers are easy to incorporate to any planting, explained Justin. “We encourage people to find creative ways to plant wildflowers, whether it’s in their yard or subdivision entrance or local park.” “Our goal is to have some of our wildflowers blooming in 2017 during Mississippi’s bicentennial celebration,” said Sarah. “We hope that in five years we are going to seeing magnificent results.” Keep Mississippi Beautiful - https://keepmsbeautiful.com Wildflowers of Mississippi - mswildflowers.org.
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Akimbo Games to launch new Card Game Article by Clint Kimberling Photos submitted
Inspiration for a new idea can strike anywhere or anytime. For Daniel Crist and Cody Smith, co-founders of Akimbo Games, the inspiration to develop a new and oneof-a-kind card game came during a snowboarding trip. Cody and Daniel first met during their electrical engineering coursework at Mississippi State. But it was on a snowboarding trip to Colorado that involved playing a lot of board games that they first thought of making their own game. As electrical engineering students, incorporating robots and circuitry to build a game around seemed like a natural choice. Their first idea was for players to actually build their own robot. But that seemed cost prohibitive and Crist and Smith wanted to keep the game cheap and approachable.
With that in mind, the pair came up with the idea for a game where players would still build a robot but instead use playing cards. They began calling the game Beep Boop, so named for the sound a robot makes. The object of Beep Boop is to build a robot body by drawing cards, and once the robot is built you battle and attack opponents until the last robot standing is declared the winner. Each specially designed card is a different robot body part (head, arms, legs and chest). Players collect cards, put together their robot and fight other players by accumulating energy points during their turn. Each card has different abilities, allowing players to block and defend attacks. But once a players loses all of their energy points, they’re out of the game. The player left at the end of the game with energy points is declared the winner. A Beep Boop deck has 108 cards, almost half of which are robot parts. The rest of the deck are battle cards that include energy cards, draw cards, and immediate play cards that add a randomness element to the game. The game is designed for 2-4 players and recommend for ages 10 and up because the rule can be complicated. The game has over two million card combinations ensuring that you will never play the same game twice. Beep Boop is very unique and the creators see it as is seen as an alternative activity to watching TV or playing with a phone. Daniel reports, “There are several games like ours, but Beep Boop is unique in the fact that it’s the only robot building and strategy game.” As far as a strategy goes, Cody says, “The game is designed with so many different ways to build a great robot that there really isn’t specific robot build or strategy that will win the majority of the time.” Beep Boop is the first game from Akimbo, a company Crist and Smith formed while working with The MSU Entrepreneur Center. Daniel credits the center with a lot of their early success. “The program at MSU is really awesome. It’s full of people passionate about ideas,” he says. The Center provided funding that sponsored Crist and Smith to travel to two different conferences. And they also formed connections through the program that put them in touch with designers and artists who made the playing cards.
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After designing a working prototypes, Crist says getting honest feedback was hard. And so, to test the game they conducted focus group and gaming sessions with free pizza for students. This allowed them to refine the elements and homed in on a final set of rules that made sense for game play. “The game has changed a lot since the first time we played it ourselves,” Daniel says. Thanks to a recent successful Kickstarter campaign (and a great promotional video) Beep Boop now exists as a fully developed prototype and is currently being manufactured for sale and distribution. Akimbo hopes to attract a casual gaming community that is very active. Their initial target for sales will be community game stores—the type of
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stores that host board and card game tournaments, a perfect fit for Beep Boop. Conventions will be another opportunity to sell. Crist and Smith hope events such as DragonCon and GenCon will provide exposure and sales opportunities. At the moment Beep Boop is the only game Akimbo offers. Daniel says, “If successful, we will expand or make new games.” Daniel and Cody remain focused on Beep Boop. Cody says, “The goal is to get Beep Boop in as many hands as possible to see people have even more fun playing Beep Boop than the awesome time we had bringing Beep Boop to life.” Check akimbogames.com for updates; copies of game available late summer.
Town and Gown’s Top Summer Festivals Article by Amanda Lucas Photos submitted
It will be a busy summer for Mississippi. There are a number of festivals going on that will keep the whole family busy. Here are our top picks so that you can have a summer filled with family friendly fun in our great state. Enjoy.
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Our first stop is the 17th Annual Mayfest Festival and 5th Annual 5K Run/Walk. This festival will be a funfilled day that begins with a 5K run. Olive Branch Old Towne Association will have vendors, games, arts and crafts, live music and plenty of entertainment for the children. The race will begin at 8 a.m. See you in Olive Branch with your running shoes on! Our second stop is Riverstock. This event will be held on the Bluff of the Mississippi River in Natchez. There will be carnival rides, food trucks, food sampling, and seven bands who are all brand new to Riverstock. Craft beer and great music sounds like a winner to us. Enjoy those great views that everyone raves about on the bluff. May is a busy month after Riverstock; the 3rd Annual Magnolia Fest will be held at Latimer Lakes Park in Horn Lake, MS. There will be a massive carnival and live music. Horne Lake is home to some historical sites that you will want to see while you are there. One is the home of Elvis Presley. The 3RD Annual Magnolia Fest is something the whole family will enjoy, thank you very much! Although it’s not a festival, the Cedar Hill Farm PICK-UROWN will be going on from the month of May until the end of 36 | townandgownmagazine.com
July. A great family day out could include picking blackberries, purple hull peas, and also collecting honey and free range eggs in Hernando, MS. You won’t find the taste of the “wild west” this summer anywhere but Natchez, MS. The Adams County Sherriff’s Deputy Rodeo will hold the top cowboys and cowgirls from all over the U.S. There will be a petting zoo, bull riding, bareback riding, barrel racing, and tie down roping.
Champion riders will go toe-totoe. With pony rides and a hamster ball children will remember this event for years to come. They might even want to be a cowboy when they grow up. Don’t spend a whole summer without attending at least one crawfish boil. See you at the 4th Annual Crawfish Music Festival. The South Branch Lions Club will have great food, boiled crawfish, gumbo cook-offs, a kid’s area, and four great bands.
As well as a crawfish eating contest. Olive Branch knows how to have fun. Don’t forget about LAKEFEST this year. If you wake up on Saturday mornings to go to your local flea markets this festival is definitely for you. The city of Vicksburg will have live music, silent auctions, food, kids games, and flea market vendors from all over the state of MS. You can get your face painted and find those rare antiques you’ve been looking for. Your flea market ventures will be far from over when June kicks off with the WORLD’S LARGEST YARD SALE AND CRAFTS FAIR. Southaven, MS will have over a hundred vendors, food, fun, and live music for the entire family. The dog can’t come, but that’s okay because you need room for the stuff you will buy. Let’s not forget about the 4th Annual Juneteenth Family Fun Festival. Horne Lake, MS does it again with celebrating heritage and community through food, arts and crafts, pony rides, a petting zoo, and water slide for the kids. So bring the bathing suits. Also don’t miss out on the car show featuring Beale Street Corvette Association, Vintage Car Competition, live Gospel, Blues, R & B and Country music featuring some of Mid-South’s finest entertainment. Greenwood, MS will be hosting its hot air balloon and music festival second week of June at Whittington Park. Fall in love for three days while you eat food, hear music, play in the children’s corner, and watch those beautiful hot air balloons fly, fly, away. Crab Festival will follow right before 4TH of July weekend in Bay St. Louis, MS. It’s one of the biggest crab festivals on the coast; and you can celebrate the crab with live music, boiled crab, crab stuffed potatoes and more. Counting our lucky stars for a great summer we can end it with one great boat festival. Delta Dragon Boat Festival will be held the last week of July in downtown Greenville, MS. You can witness one of the best water sports at its best on Lake Ferguson. There will be food, craft vendors, music, and plenty more. Talk about being on the water. Mississippi has a variety of local festivals in our state for the whole family. It will definitely be a year worth remembering. Let’s get out and take advantage of everything this great state has to offer. Regardless of what anyone may think Mississippi still knows how to have fun! May 2016 | 37
Local Spotlight: Donald Jackson
Article by Clint Kimberling Photos submitted
Donald Jackson is not your typical outdoorsmen. A retired biology and fisheries professor at Mississippi State, he is actually Jackson is a multilingual world traveler, author, piano player, and Boy Scout Master. Jackson is incredibly well-traveled. He has worked on international fisheries assignments, in Southeast Asia, Africa, Latin America, the Caribbean, and Europe. After college Jackson served two years in the Peace Corps, working in the zoology department of the National University of Malaysia in Kuala Lumpur. As a result he still speaks and reads Bahasa and feel quite comfortable traveling in that part of the country. Jackson is actually multilingual and speaks Spanish at home to his Panamanian wife. He also reads French. Most recently he’s been doing work in Vietnam. And, yes, he’s working on learning Vietnamese. Despite his international travel and work, Jackson now spends as much time as possible enjoying the outdoors on his farm. Living the life of a retired professor, Jackson spends his days riding his tractor, checking ponds, and ensuring he provides the right habitat for animals. “I find a lot of peace on these 50 acres,” he says, referring to his plot of land. It’s not unusual for Jackson to wake early, between 2 AM and 6 AM to walk his property. “That’s when you can really see and hear nature. I like the sounds of silence, natural sounds, birds and wind.”
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Jackson is also the author of four books that focus on his love of the outdoors. Mississippi offers a wellspring of material for the natural writer and Jackson’s books focus on personal connections between people and the outdoors. His essays and short stories explore the powerful bond between nature and humanity. And Jackson’s become somewhat prolific in the last 10 years, publishing three books with University Press of Mississippi. “When hunting season begins to wane, or if the weather is cold and rainy, I’d sit down write a story or essay or two,” he explains how he finds time to write. Jackson has maintained a journal for 40 years, saying it helps him clarify thoughts and feelings. When he’s away from the keyboard, he can write for hours in the journal. “I try to write regularly, if not every day, but usually several times a week. My journaling practice helps me recall later details and thoughts to incorporate into a story.” “Over the years, I gathered a critical mass of material that I eventually organized them into a book.” Jackson published his first book in 1984, Trails, a collection of essays that also incorporated poetry. In the years following, the writing happened more slowly as his career and family grew. But he even-
tually built up a collection of material three more times to publish Tracks, Wilder Ways, and most recently, Deeper Currents. The books are filled with experiences from decades of teaching, conservation activities, hunting, fishing, and wilderness adventures. His writings bring into focus the natural thrill of participating fully as part of the chain of life in the outdoors. To write an essay, Jackson doesn’t need much inspiration. “I’ve got a style that I’ve developed,” he explains. “I can take a small theme and develop a full story. For instance, I can look around at turtles on a pond, feel the wind, look at the sky and all of a sudden I’ve got in my mind a framework for a story.” Publishing books has led to an identity shift around Starkville for Jackson. “People see me around town and know me as a writer, not a professor. It’s kind of nice,” he admits. I like carrying the identity of a writer.” Spoken like a true outdoorsmen, Jackson has a hard time choose his favorite outdoor activity. When pressed, he says, “It all depends on the season,” He explains that during the fall, he skips out on football games to hunt squirrels with a .22 rifle.
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“I like it because it’s extremely quiet and you have to stay in shadows and have patience. And the shot must be so precise.” In the winter, you can find him on his pond with duck decoys. More than the hunt, he enjoys waking early, drinking coffee and enjoying the outdoors. “If I get a few shots, that’s great, if not it was still a wonderful hunt just because I was outside.” In the late winter its quail hunting where his main focus is not on birds, but watching his dog have a good time. Springtime is for fishing. And in the summer he prefers to be on the tractor where he makes trail, move crops, and generally piddles around. Jackson will continue to write and even has an idea for his next book. His next collection of stories would focus on his international travels. For instance, fishing for bass in Panama and catfish in Kenya. Jackson says, “The common language of fishing is global.”
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Town and Gown’s Top Family Friendly Places Article by Richelle Putnam Photos submitted
From the mighty river to the Gulf of Mexico, Mississippi’s landscape spreads into hills, farmland, sandy beaches and the great piney woods and features a multitude of National and State landmarks and manmade destinations for families around the world to enjoy. So why leave Mississippi for family summer vacation when these destinations are just around the corner from your house? Here are some favorite Mississippi destinations this summer. May 2016 | 41
Natchez Tricentennial Celebration The 2016 Tricentennial is the perfect opportunity to bring family and friends to Natchez. With festivals, historical reenactments, musical tributes, parades, powwows, music and arts, and events with Tricentennial themes, there will be something for all ages. Discover Southern belles, cotton barons, Civil War soldiers, and Civil Rights pioneers while exploring antebellum homes and historical landmarks for a glimpse of the past. Visit museums for history on the Natchez Indians or daily life in antebellum Natchez. Enjoy bird watching, tour an ornate historic cemetery, or watch the sunset over the Mississippi River. http://visitnatchez.org The Natchez Trace Connecting Natchez to Nashville, Tennessee, the 444-mile long Natchez Trace Parkway penetrates incredible scenery and over 10,000 years of history. The Old Trace was the path through
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early Choctaw and Chickasaw lands used by American Indians, “Kaintucks,” settlers, and future presidents. This route became a vital, though rugged, roadway for General Andrew Jackson and his troops during the Creek War. The seven mound groups along Natchez Trace Parkway in Mississippi display rich American Indian culture and legacy. Today along the Natchez Trace, families can hike, bike, horseback ride, and camp in this resilient, almost untouched territory. The Natchez Trace Corridor Birding Trail features six state parks and one natural area perfect for bird viewing. https://www.nps.gov/ natr/index.htm
communities, river states, and the nation. As a part of the Southern Trail, Great River Road State Park provides a breathtaking natural landscape ideal for picnics and a 75-foot high overlook tower for panoramic views of the Mississippi River. Along this trail, Leroy Percy State Park, the oldest of Mississippi’s state parks, has artesian springs, cypress trees and ancient oaks dripping with Spanish moss and is the only state park with a wildlife preserve. Natchez State Park is located approximately 10 miles north historic Natchez, the oldest settlement on the Mississippi River. http://www.imtrails.com
The Mississippi River Trail From its headwaters in Itasca, Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico, the Mississippi River Trail offers approximately 3,000 miles of on-road bikeways, pedestrian and bicycle pathways for the recreational enjoyment, health, conservation and tourism development of river
Mississippi Children’s Museum (MCM) This 40,000 square foot museum houses five galleries of educational, interactive exhibits and enriching weekly programs that focus on literacy; health and nutrition; the cultural arts; science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM); and Mississippi heritage. The Literacy Garden encourages early language and reading skills development. MCM has been recognized for excellence by the Association of Children’s Museums, Trip Advisor, Parents & Kids Magazine, and Mississippi Magazine. Exhibits include the World at Work Gallery, Exploring Mississippi Gallery, Healthy Fun Gallery, Express Yourself Gallery, Wild About Reading Gallery, and Wild About Reading Gallery. http://mschildrensmuseum.org
Mississippi Museum of Natural Science Located in Jackson, Mississippi, this 73,000-square foot complex introduces you to a world of exciting exhibits, nature trails and an open-air amphitheater. Here you enjoy a series of lifesize displays like the Monsters of the Deep exhibit as well as a 1,700-square foot gigantic greenhouse aptly called The Swamp. Children enjoy their interactive aquarium where they handle live marine creatures and learn more about how to conserve the environment. http://www.mdwfp.com Old Capitol Museum Built in 1839 and restored to its original grandeur, the Old Capital reopened as a free museum focusing on the history of the building and the events that took place there. Interactive multimedia exhibits explore the roles of the legislature, governor, and high court, as well as the importance of historic preservation to the state, the activities that took place in the
building after the New Capitol was constructed in 1903, and much more. A National Historic Landmark, The Old Capitol is one of the country’s premier examples of Greek Revival public architecture with a limestone exterior, copper dome, and massive interior spaces. Enjoy a guided tour that covers the construction of the building as the statehouse, its architect and caretakers, and the ways the Old Capitol has been used.
http://mdah.state.ms.us/oldcap Smith Robertson Museum Located near the State Capitol in Jackson, this museum houses art, artifacts, and photography, the work, lifestyle, and artistic contributions of African Americans to not only celebrate their heritage but evoke a greater understanding of the AfricanAmerican experience in the deep south. Exhibits such as From Slavery to America, 16701864 and in the Hall of Fame, which includes personalities from the state who are pioneers in their respective positions highlight the contributions of black Mississippians through struggle and achievement. Also, the museum houses the Smithsonian Traveling Exhibition Services organized exhibition, Field to Factory: The Afro-American Migration, 1915-1940, which explores and interprets the Great Migration of African-Americans from the rural South to the urban North. http://www.jacksonms.gov May 2016 | 43
Mississippi Petrified Forest The Mississippi Petrified Forest lies within hills and ravines hollowed out by nature during the past century. According to the size of the petrified logs, as living trees, these stones were over one hundred feet tall and could be over a thousand years old. According to history, a thunderous, flood-swollen river snatched everything in its path as it roared southward, ripping into ancient trees, leaving behind only remnants to settle deep into the watery ooze. More floods from the North sent more sand and silt, burying the old trees even deeper and petrifying the living trees into stone logs. The perfect spot for history and science discussions while having fun, families enjoy a Nature Trail where nature continues to thrive alongside the huge stone logs that are close enough to touch. There is also a museum, campground, gem mining flume. https://www. mspetrifiedforest.com Vicksburg Military National Park Vicksburg National Military Park offers historical, cultural, and natural resources through options tailored to the visitor’s interest and timeframe. Included is the U.S.S. Cairo, one of seven ironclad gunboats named in honor of towns along the upper Mississippi and Ohio rivers. These powerful ironclads were formidable vessels, each mounting thirteen big guns (cannon). The Heritage Garden is based on the typical Victorianera kitchen garden, flower beds, and traditional commodities grown on 19th-century southern farms. Visitors also discover the 116-acre Vicksburg National 44 | townandgownmagazine.com
Cemetery that holds the remains of 17,000 Civil War Union soldiers, more than any other national cemetery. “Soldiers’ Rest,” the plot in Cedar Hill Cemetery, is the final resting place for an estimated 5,000 Confederate soldiers. The African American Monument memorializes over 178,000 black soldiers who served in the Union army and the almost 18,000 African-Americans who joined the Union Navy. Service figures for the Confederate States remain unknown. Licensed Park Guides make history come alive at Vicksburg National Military Park through their knowledge of civilian life and military operations of the campaign, siege, and defense of Vicksburg in the spring and summer of 1863. Visitors may also use the self-guided driving tour https://www.nps.gov/vick Chotard Landing Resort Located 20 miles north of Vicksburg, off of Highway 61 North, 24 miles on Highway 465, Chotard Landing Resort
sits on the banks of Chotard Lake, a Mississippi River Oxbow. Chotard Landing Resort offers a place of tranquility for the Fisherman and Outdoors Person. A large common area with grills and tables under the tavern accommodate family cookouts, reunions and all kinds of outdoor get-togethers. Bait and fishing supplies are available, as well as a boat ramp. Guided fishing tours available. http://www. chotardlandingresort.com/ Clarkco State Park Located just south of Meridian near the Mississippi-Alabama state line, Clarkco State Park has been a favorite Mississippi recreation spot since 1938. Situated on 815 acres of gently rolling woodlands, Clarkco State Park offers camping, cabin rentals, and water sports in a convenient, unspoiled location for an afternoon or weekend getaway. There are 43 camping sites, seven primitive tent camping sites, 20 vacation cabins, and one vacation cottage
plus laundry facilities, picnic sites, pavilions, playgrounds, playing fields, nature trails, tennis courts, disc golf. Clarkco Lake offers a boat launch, fishing and water skiing, plus a zero-depth splash pad. http://www.mdwfp.com/ parks-destinations/msstate-parks/clarkco Bonita Lakes Ranked as the number one thing to do in Meridian according to TripAdviser, Bonita Lakes offers a wide variety of fun things to do for the whole family. From hiking trails (one even around the lake itself) that are great for every family member to a fun kids play area, Bonita Lakes has it all. This park includes pet friendly areas so you can bring your pooch for a bit of exercise as well. Sam D. Hamilton Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) Over 150,000 visitors annually participate in activities including fishing, hunting, hiking, wildlife photography, wildlife observation, environmental education, and research at Sam D. Hamilton Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge. Photographers capture photos of alligators, waterfowl, warblers and other species living in the refuge. The 42,500-acre refuge serves as an outdoor classroom for Mississippi State University and other local educational institutions and was designed by the National Audubon Society as an Important Bird Area (IBA), one of five of global importance in Mississippi. Four green-tree reservoirs (GTRs), two major lakes (Bluff Lake – 900 acres and Loakfoma Lake – 400 acres), 16 small impoundments, and
assorted wetland areas provide important habitat for the wood stork, American alligator, bald eagle, and wintering waterfowl. Here, fishing programs promote understanding and appreciation of natural resources and their management on all lands and waters in the refuge system. The refuge visitor center exhibit hall features a timeline describing how the land was formed, what it is now and how it is managed, and the creatures inhabiting it. Guided walks and talks by volunteers provide opportunities for visitors to connect with wildlife. Enjoy great views of alligators and look for any of the seven species of common wading birds. Boardwalks and overlooks provide great vantage points as well, so bring your binoculars and camera. http://www.fws.gov/ refuge/Noxubee Elvis Presley Birthplace Mississippi legend Elvis Presley returned to his hometown Tupelo on September 27, 1957, to perform a benefit concert
for a new Youth Center and park in Tupelo. The proceeds helped purchase his birthplace and as well as build a park for the neighborhood children. Within the Elvis Presley Birthplace Park visitors find the Birthplace, Museum, Chapel, Gift Shop, “Elvis at 13” statue, Fountain of Life, Walk of Life, “Memphis Bound” car feature and Story Wall. http://www. elvispresleybirthplace.com The B. B. King Museum and Delta Interpretive Center Located on Highway 82 between Greenwood and Greenville, in the Mississippi Delta, close to the Crossroads at Clarksdale, The B. B. King Museum and Delta Interpretive Center honors the life and music of B. B. King. Museum exhibits and educational programs build bridges between the community and the world and preserve the Mississippi Delta’s rich cultural and musical heritage. Exhibits explore King’s 60-plus year career through Mr. King’s personal papers, materials, May 2016 | 45
and objects from his life and work, and multi-media and film. http://www.bbkingmuseum.org Delta Blues Museum The Delta Blues Museum, Mississippi’s oldest music museum, is housed in the historic Clarksdale freight depot, which was built in 1918 for the Yazoo and Mississippi Valley Railroad. The Museum preserves, interprets and encourages interest in the blues and its story. The museum’s hometown, Clarksdale, situated where Highways 61 and 49 connect, has been a center for blues culture since the 1920s. Numerous music legends have been born and raised in this Delta area, such as Muddy Waters, John Lee Hooker, Son House, Ike Turner, Jackie Brenston, Sam Cooke, Junior Parker, and W. C. Handy. Today, visitors flock to Clarksdale where the blues culture has been preserved and the Delta blues tradition continues. The museum offers many current exhibits. http://www. deltabluesmuseum.org Tanglefoot Trail® In advance of National Trails Day in 2015, U.S. Secretary of the Interior Sally Jewell and National Park Service Director Jonathan B. Jarvis designated 10 local and state trails as national recreation trails, adding more than 150 miles to the National Trails System. Tanglefoot Trail® was included. Mississippi’s longest Rails to Trails preserves the abandoned 43.6-mile railroad corridor passing through the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains in the Mississippi Hills National Heritage. These rails were assembled in part 46 | townandgownmagazine.com
for the Gulf and Ship Island Railroad by Col. William Clark Falkner, beginning in 1871. Replacing the rails with a trail, the Tanglefoot Trail® offers outdoor opportunities to families, groups and visitors of every age. The Tanglefoot Trail® towns include Houston, New Houlka, Algoma, Pontotoc, Ecru, Ingomar, and New Albany. http://www.tanglefoottrail.com African American Military History Museum Opened in 1942, in the segregated army of World War II, the USO Club served as a home away from home for African American soldiers stationed at Camp Shelby and is the only remaining USO constructed especially for African American soldiers in public use in the United States. It is now listed on the National Registry of Historic Places and is a Mississippi Landmark. Hundreds of artifacts, photos and unique displays, including one of the most complete sets of authentic Spanish-American War medals,
fill the restored main hall. Each item tells a story of pioneers such as Hattiesburg’s own Jesse L. Brown, America’s first black naval aviator, and lesser-known heroes such as Ruth Bailey Earl, also of Hattiesburg, whose image and actions represented the more than 500 black nurses who served during World War II. Docent-guided and self-guided tour, available WednesdaySaturday, last approximately 45 minutes to an hour. http://www.hattiesburguso. com/index.cfm/africanamerican-military-visit/ Landrum’s Homestead & Village The beautifully landscaped Landrum’s Homestead & Village is located off Highway 15 in Laurel. With exhibits, wagon rides, gem mining, nature trails, a Confederate soldier encampment, an Old West Shooting Gallery, and a Native American Village, every visitor steps back into the late 1800s. In addition, through a partnership with the USDA Forest Service and the Mississippi Forestry
Small Craft Harbor. During the 50- minute ferry boat ride, watch for Bottlenose dolphins. Ship Island MS http://www.msshipisland.com
Commission, the Landrum’s created an educational display on the Civilian Conservation Corps and South Mississippi’s reforestation history to show the importance of preservation and conservation. Biscuits are cooked on an old wood stove, and there are a nature trail and a small lake with a pier where people can feed the catfish. You can also play horseshoes and basketball. http://landrums.com/
a fun-filled day. Experience the pristine gulf waters, explore the beaches and tour historic Fort Massachusetts, all part of Gulf Islands National Seashore. Mississippi’s finest beaches are located on Ship Island approximately 11 miles south of Gulfport and Biloxi and are accessible by Ship Island Excursions’ ferry boats, located in the Gulfport
The Institute for Marine Mammal Studies Located in Gulfport, Mississippi, the Institute for Marine Mammal Studies (IMMS) is an educational outlet with programs for conservation, education and research of marine mammals and their environment. Visitors of all ages engage in hands-on learning experiences to help them understand and appreciate the species that make Mississippi Gulf Coast waters unique. Explore the interactive museum, and encounter sea creatures such as stingrays, sharks, horseshoe crabs, fish, blue crabs, sea stars, and sea urchins in the new Discovery Room touch pools. There are a fossil dig and a dock to meet dolphins face-to-face. http://www.imms.org
Ship Island Ship Island played a vital role in the history and settlement of the Gulf Coast. In 1699, French explorers named Ship Island, which soon became an important port for French Louisiana. Here, many colonists took their first steps on American soil and Ship Island became known as the “Plymouth Rock” of the Gulf Coast. Once a single island, 1969’s Hurricane Camille split the land mass in two. Ship Island with its tranquil stretches of National Park beaches offers an affordable family vacation to explore, swim and relax for May 2016 | 47
Fresh from the Farmer’s Market kid friendly recipes to foster healthy eating
by katie zampini
In our fast-paced world of rushed meals, there’s a good chance your child can name more processed “convenience” foods than fruits or vegetables. The vast assortment of ready-made foods available in grocery stores is astonishing, and one way to help kids make healthy choices is to include a wide variety of options. Enter the Farmer’s Market. Mississippi has a treasure in its agricultural industry, and thus provides ample opportunity to visit farmer’s markets and show children a huge variety of produce. Take your child to a Farmer’s Market and challenge them to choose one or two items they have never tried before to incorporate
into a meal that week. Allowing your child to participate in the choosing of the produce will encourage them to try new things and possibly give them a greater chance of enjoying a new fruit or vegetable as well. Try one of the two recipes in this month’s article as inspiration for how to serve your child’s produce selections: a homemade, low-fat ranch dressing for dipping vegetables, and a whole grain, flax seed pizza crust to be topped with farmer’s market finds! You can feel good about both recipes: they are all natural, and you know they are not loaded with preservatives, artificial ingredients, and MSG.
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Homemade Ranch Dressing: Dried chives, 2 tsp Dried dill, 1 ½ tsp Garlic powder, 2 tsp Dried onion flakes, 2 tsp Dried parsley, 2 tbsp Black pepper, 1 tsp Sea salt, 1 tsp Dried buttermilk, 1/3 cup Combine all dry ingredients, and blend with plain, nonfat Greek yogurt according to taste. Start with a cup of yogurt, and use more for a milder flavor.
Whole Grain Flax Seed Pizza Dough and Toppings: ¾ cup warm water 1 tablespoon honey 2 and ¼ teaspoons rapid rise yeast ¾ cup unbleached bread flour ¾ cup whole wheat flour ¼ cup ground flax seeds ½ teaspoon sea salt 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for coating dough and greasing baking sheet
Featured Toppings: Sliced red onion Crushed garlic Fresh, sliced tomatoes Yellow and Red peppers, diced Fresh, sliced basil Olive Oil Mozzarella cheese Combine warm water (not hot), with honey and yeast, and allow it to sit for at least 5 minutes for the yeast to activate. Combine all other dry ingredients in a mixing bowl and blend.
Add two tablespoons of olive oil plus the yeast mixture to the flour mixture and combine until it forms a ball of dough that is not sticky. Add more flour, one small spoonful at a time if necessary to decrease any stickiness.
garlic, and put in the pre-heated oven for twenty minutes.
Coat your finished dough with some extra olive oil and place in a large bowl, covered lightly with a kitchen towel to rise for at least one hour.
Top dough with desired ingredients, and bake in the hot oven for 13-15 minutes.
When dough has doubled in size, spread your dough thinly across the baking sheet.
Preheat oven to 435 degrees F. Prepare a baking sheet with olive oil. While dough is rising, roast your vegetable toppings. Fresh vegetables should be roasted during this time so that they are not soggy on your pizza! Just use about a tablespoon of olive oil on your chopped vegetables with crushed
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Beyond the Page: Susan O’Bryan’s May Book Reviews
“In a small town on the verge of big change, a young woman unearths deep secrets about her family and unexpected truths about herself. Filled with insights that are the hallmark of Anna Quindlen’s bestsellers, Miller’s Valley is an emotionally powerful story about a family you will never forget.”
Do you take things for granted? Your health, your accomplishments or your children? I consider an average, ordinary person, and I certainly know that often I don’t miss something until it’s gone. In its most simple form, I’ll throw something out, and then, of course, the next day I need it. What about your past? Do you take it for granted because now it’s behind you? What about your heritage? Your family history? Author Anna Quindlen takes a deeper look at a community and its past – and future – through the eyes of a Mimi Miller, a character who ages from 11 to middle age during the course of her latest novel, “Miller’s Valley.” “It’s set in a small farming community that is living under a death sentence because of government experts who believe it’s the ideal place for a reservoir,” according to Quindlen’s promotions. “Water in this book is both ever-present, and a metaphor, for how we Americans too often disappear our history and therefore fail to learn its lessons.” Miller’s Valley and its inhabitants must face the reality that 6,400 acres of old family farms and homesteads may soon be under water if the government gets its way to build a dam. Some look forward to starting over, while others, like Mimi, realize that the past is worth
holding dear and near. Mimi’s family has held on to their farm for nearly 200 years. It is both home and heart, linking her family to a land that may soon disappear along with its links to the past. The valley, along with its past, present and future, affects each person Mimi encounters. Each of those characters is richly and colorfully described, making inanimate names on the page come alive. That richness in detail in one of Quindlen’s many trademarks. In “Miller’s Valley,” what floodwaters claim doesn’t always stay hidden. As the river flows, so does the present and its future. Some secrets get swept up in change while others remain rooted to the past. In a similar vein of acknowledging what we sometimes overlook is another historical novel, “The Tumbling Turner Sisters,” by Juliette Fay. The author casts four sisters in the turbulent 1920s era to emphasize the power of family. When the Turner girls’ dad loses his job, the sisters and their mom take to the road with their cobbled, constantly changing vaudeville act. Their tumbling act takes them from town to town, big and small, to support their family. As each sister – Gert, Winnie, Kit and newly widowed Nell - grows into womanhood, she encounters life on her own terms, whether forced to deal with racism, sexism or the individual spirit. Fay brings a past often overlooked, emphasizing how women were forced to cope in hard times while often being the lone provider for a family. Along the way, they are rewarded with a sense of freedom and May 2016 | 53
independence they’d never dared to imagine. Speaking of family, Emily Carpenter takes an entirely different approach in her latest novel, “Burying the Honeysuckle Girls.” It’s a cross between past and present, good and evil, sane and insanity. Althea Bell, fresh from her latest rehab stint, is determined to learn the truth about her mom’s early death. The age of 30 apparently is a death sentence for Althea’s mom, grandmother and great-grandmother, and her 30th birthday is fast approaching. What secrets are her dad and brother hiding? What caused her mom’s death? And who is the honeysuckle girl that her mother mentioned that night she died? With the reluctant help of her childhood love, Althea tries to follow the thin thread binding the women in her family together? Is it insanity, jealousy or power that holds the power to kill? Carpenter has done an excellent job tying the pieces together as chapters jump from the past to the present. Her writing style gives a voice to all the generations as Althea gains power from all who have gone before her. If none of the above novels grabs your attention, here are a few others in the “just finished reading” category: “The Drowning Girls” by Paula Treick DeBoard. Life is not perfect behind the gated community gates, despite all that’s touted about The Palms. Liz McGinnis and her family learn the hard way that “perfect” is a matter of perception. “Running on Red Dog Road” by Drema Hall Berkheimer. The author recounts life as she knew growing up in 1940s Appalachia with her devout grandparents. Her dad died in a mine accident, and her mom is another “Rosie the Riveter.” That leaves Drema to grow up with faith-healers, gypsies, moonshiners and some of the most loving folks imaginable. This memoir is touching, emotional and charming. As some say, “It’s proof that truth is stranger than fiction, especially when it comes to life and faith in an Appalachian childhood.”
the children’s store at
Taste and Toast: The Perfect Picnic Photos and recipes by Lisa Bynum
Asian Noodle Salad • 1 pound (16 oz.) spaghetti • 1 (12oz) bag frozen edamame • 1/4 cup soy sauce • 3 cloves garlic, minced • 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger (or 1/2 tsp. ground ginger) • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar • 1 tablespoon sesame oil • 1 teaspoon vegetable or canola oil • 1 large red bell pepper, sliced into thin strips then cut into 2-inch pieces • 1 large cucumber, peeled, seeded and sliced into thin
strips then cut into 2-inch pieces • 1 cup matchstick carrots • 1/2 cup chopped green onions • 1/2 cup chopped cilantro • 1/2 cup lightly salted roasted peanuts • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and diced
soy sauce, garlic, ginger, vinegar, sesame oil, and vegetable oil in a medium mixing bowl. Set aside.
1. Cook spaghetti according to package directions.
5. Pour dressing over salad right before serving. Toss to coat evenly.
4. Drain pasta once it is al dente. Toss pasta with vegetables, cilantro, edamame, peanuts, and chicken.
2. Prepare edamame according to package directions. Allow edamame to cool.
6. Salad can be served warm or cold.
3. In the meantime, combine
Serves 4-6
Hello Dolly Bars
Allow to cool completely.
• 1 ½ cups finely crushed graham crackers • 1/3 cup butter, melted • 3 tablespoons sugar • 1 cup chocolate chips • 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut • 1 cup pecans, chopped • 1 (14 oz.) sweetened condensed milk
4. Layer chocolate chips, coconut, and pecans over graham cracker crust. Pour condensed milk over the top. 5. Bake for 25 minutes. Cut into squares before serving.
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. 2. Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. 3. Press mixture into the bottom of a greased 8 x 8-inch baking dish. Bake crust for 7 minutes.
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Makes 9 bars
Fruit Tea Punch • 2 cups granulated sugar • 1 cup water • 2 cups strong brewed tea, cooled • 1 cup lemonade • 2 ½ cups orange juice • 2 cups pineapple juice • 2 cups sliced fresh
strawberries • 1 quart ginger ale 1. Combine sugar and water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat. 2. Continue to simmer until sugar is dissolved and the mixture thickens into a thin syrup. 3. Remove syrup from the heat and allow to cool completely. 4. In a large container, combine syrup, tea, lemonade, and juices. 5. Add sliced strawberries and ginger ale right before serving. Makes 1 ½ gallons
Town and Gown’s Summer Fashion Photos by Divian Conner • Hair by Mia Salon • Make up by Merle Norman Luna Bella • Clothes provided by Giggleswick, Aspen Bay, Susan’s Hallmark, Gypsterveil and Liza Tye and Company
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10 Annual Charles H. Templeton Ragtime and Jazz Festival Photos by Margaret McMullen
1. Betty Templeton, Marilyn Laird and Jan Mullen 2. Chuckie and Geoff Matthews 3. Demetrice Williams, Debra Fairbrother and Connie Templeton 4. Fred Smith and Frances Coleman 5. Haley Gilbreath and Laura Richardson 6. Jeff Barnhard and Reginald Robinson 74 | townandgownmagazine.com
10 Annual Charles H. Templeton Ragtime and Jazz Festival Photos by Margaret McMullen
1. Kara Herman, Laura Templeton,Trey Templeton, Connie Templeton and Emma Herman 2. Lindsey McNair, Katie Anne Bailey, Sarah Murphey and Andee Schuurman 3. Melanie Harris and Walker Harris 4. Fashion Board Model 5.Trey Templeton 6. Kara Herman, Laura Templeton, Connie Templeton and Emma Herman May 2016 | 75
Mississippi State University’s Easter Egg Hunt Photos by Margaret McMullen
1. Ava Deuois, Jack Blalock and Kinsley Thomas 2. Dylan, Vivian and Clay Karges 3. Brad, Sara, Emily Paige, Hallie and Max Fuller 4. Christine Jackson, Kody Brown and Kandiace Gray 5. Aan, Alajri and Noor Ban 6. Emily Paige Fuller and Vivian Karges 76 | townandgownmagazine.com
Mississippi State University’s Easter Egg Hunt Photos by Margaret McMullen
1. Graham, Lindsey and Amilia Wiseman 2. Heath, Misty, Jacob, Will and Madelyn Barrett 3. Jennifer, Lily Ann and Doug Haugen 4. Kaley Chim and Khloei Earley 5. Madelyn, Will and Jacob Barrett May 2016 | 77
MSU’s International Fiesta Photos by Margaret McMullen
1. Tasmia, Asif, Maila, Amin and Zakia 2. Bo Key, Alex Ferguson and Jason Snyder 3. Caroline and Mary Neel Hearnsberger 4. Emily Allen, Lakshika Silva and Lionel Silva 5. Jembe Den 6. Keigero Ferguson, Ruth Delacruz, Abdul Sheri, Frank Vilcapaza and Terry Brown 78 | townandgownmagazine.com
MSU’s International Fiesta Photos by Margaret McMullen
1. Matt Stanford, Adeleigh McGee, Avneet Singh and Nicole Payton 2. Mukti Patel, Nandita Gupta and Amruta Jadhav 3. John Bowden, Robert Damm, Memory Suffield 4. Chandani, Sandanini, Eranga and Dinvshe 5.Taylor Prislovsky and Shelley Keith 6. Zadia And Eema Codabux May 2016 | 79
Gypster Veil Open House Photos by Brittney Dowell
80 | townandgownmagazine.com
Tablescapes and Tastings Photos by Sarah Tyner
1. Deborah Montgomer and Maria Sherman 2. Jennifer Blackbourn and Caroline Anderson 3. Alaina and Kathy Prentice 4. Jennifer Spradling 5. Glenda Clark, Mariah Prather, Lynn Zimmerman and Mary Howard 6. Pat Colwick May 2016 | 81
Tablescapes and Tastings Photos by Sarah Tyner
1. Cathy Allen and Sarah Fortenberry 2. Cyndy McGuire, Betty Bell and Edie Butler
82 | townandgownmagazine.com
2016
O C T T G ON N IK
CRAW FISH BOIL
MAY 13 PAGE AVENUE
in the COTTON DISTRICT
TICKETS: $20 each 6:30-8:30pm ADVANCE
5lb BUCKET BEER & BEVS
unlimitedGates Open at 6:00pm
STORMY MONDAY BLUES corn Live Music From
Get TIX at GSDP Office or online at:
kingcottoncrawfishboil.com starkvillecommunitymarket.com
& potatoes IG: @starkvillems /mscollegetown
Our staff now offers you a of Quality Care Dr. Travis Methvin gets that two knowledgeable caregivers is 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 Center for Breast Health & Imaging’s clinical team! The Center is pleased to offer their patients high-quality, compassionate care under the direction of this outstanding duo. A board-certified general surgeon with special training in breast care, Dr. Methvin serves as the Center’s medical director. As a nurse practitioner working in collaboration with Dr. Methvin, Dana Brooks performs clinical breast exams, conducts postsurgical evaluations, prescribes medications, and provides health counseling and teaching. She received her nursing degree from Mississippi University for Women in 2000 and earned her master’s degree in nursing from there in 2014. A nurse first and foremost, Dana prides herself in caring for the whole patient — mind, body and spirit.
Together, Methvin and Brooks provide a quality of care second to none!
DIGITAL MAMMOGRAPHY BREAST ULTRASOUND BREAST MRI STEREOTACTIC BREAST BIOPSY CLINICAL BREAST EXAM
(662) 615-3800
401 Hospital Road • Starkville • www.och.org
Dana Brooks, FNP-C Travis Methvin, DO