today you are you!

MADISONAUGUST 2015 C O U N T YMADISON

C O U N T Y

4 | MADISON COUNTY MAGAZINE

John Polles(601)[email protected]

Amanda Polles(601)278-6871

[email protected]

Here to serve all your real estate needs, including Residential, Recreational Land, Commercial and Property Management.

www.pollesproperties.com

AUGUST 2015 | 5

FEATURES

AUGUST2015

26 Harlan Craig 34 Wilson Donahoo28 Griffis Fahrenkopf 25 Trace Fitzgerald25 Waverly Fitzgerald 29 Carter Fowler29 Katherine Fowler 22 Nora Lynn Guerieri 31 Ryan LaSource 23 Emma McElroy

13 A CAPITAL CITY CLASSIC & HIP NEW ADDITION Madison County Welcomes Two Children’s Stores

23 Robert McElroy32 Max O’Reilly 32 Parker O’Reilly24 Will Parenteau 30 John Carter Polles33 Paisley Shotts 30 Anna Spencer Evans26 Clara Ross Thurmond 26 Barrett Toms

21 TODAY YOU ARE YOU

Hip new threads like this Mississippi Roots onesie and Babiators can be found at Madison’s newest children’s clothing store, Row10 Baby. See page 13

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DEPARTMENTS

LIFE’S LEISURE 10 Shopping

Hands On & Happy15 Homes

Neverland Nursery19 Books

Must Have New Releas-es

36 Food In the Kitchen with the

Ferris Family

SOUTH BOUND39 Pop Shops

Pop Up

SIGHTS & SCENES46 Watermelon Run

SOUTHERLY COMFORT

45 Creating a Miracle

IN EVERY ISSUE7 Editor’s Letter

Faith, Trust & Pixie Dust

42 Events Listing

On the Cover:Silly, sassy and full of personality, Waverly Fitzgerald, was not shy in front of a camera. Picture-perfect and precious, she embodies each unique little one in this month’s

feature Today You Are You!See page 21

MADISONAUGUST 2015 C O U N T YMADISON

C O U N T Y

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Elias Franklin enjoys his par-ents’ Deep South Pops just as much as any child. See page 39

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Madison County Magazine’sCommunity

Board SSCalling All Brides & Photographers

(601)853-4222 | [email protected]

Madison County Magazine is now ac-cepting Photography Submissions from June of 2014 through the current wedding season! For Editor’s consideration to be featured in our annual Wedding Planning Look Book please submit your high reso-lution photos on CD, USB or Dropbox Link before Aug. 21!

For the f irst-time we will also be publishing Traditional Wedding Announcements.

Half- Page Announcement: $300 (One picture of bride and groom)

Full- Page Announcement: $550 (Two pictures) Two- Page Spread: $1200 (Up to 6 pictures)

AUGUST 2015 | 9

EDITOR’S LETTER

Mississippi roots were instrumental in shaping the palette of work that well-known southern painter, printer and

etcher, Dale Rayburn, has shared with many col-lectors of this genre and enthusiast of the stories his paintings tell. My father, a collector in its deep-est sense, has passed along the appreciation to me ever-so-subtly from a very young age.

Hanging above my parent’s bed for many years rested Rayburn’s “Garden of Eden.” Num-bered—8/150—and signed in original pencil, this mysteriously intriguing image depicting the bibli-cal “garden of God” holds so many memories in the mind of a young child spinning vigorously in wonder.

I remember creating stories of travels in the world that lived behind the schnauzer-shaped strip of trees. Stories in this imagined world of wonder that entertained and fostered imagination and creativity not even knowing it.

Recently, my parents shared this gift with me. They arrived to our house, “Garden of Eden” in hand, with the perfect place in mind for it to hang to open the doors for another generation sure enough to soon rock all of our worlds.

August, nine-months pregnant, and hot…I think it is safe to say that this year, this month of endings and beginnings, drawing summer to a close is sure to be like a trek up Mt. Everest fol-lowed by what will be a life changing gift from God. Expected early September, this firstborn,

Faith, Trust & Pixie Dust

surprise bundle of joy is not lacking in the love department—and we have not even officially met yet.

The one thing that stands out most in the mountains of advice that are shared daily, is that “we have no idea what to expect.” I hear you, friends… and I anxiously await what is unfolding in our lives.

Appropriately timed, Madison County Magazinehas prepared again, one of the most precious is-sues with pages packed full of the young minds of Madison County. Their little minds and bodies always in action, compose our August issue from cover to cover. We feature a few in Today You are You! but kiddos sprinkle the pages throughout. You! but kiddos sprinkle the pages throughout. You!From popsicle-loving little ones to a young man on a mission, this month is full of silliness and sass. But most importantly, young minds and personali-ties that are the next generation full of hope, smiles and laughter in the wonderland of the world today.

Much has changed since I was a little one creat-ing and dreaming in the “Garden of Eden.” I am certain that I have no idea what to expect, but I am even more certain in the promises that it is all going to be OK. You can’t help but feel that way learning, reading and seeing the hope in the eyes of the children from the pages of this issue. After all, all you need is faith, trust and a little bit of pixie all, all you need is faith, trust and a little bit of pixie dust.

“Garden of Eden” by Dale Rayburn

My new favorite mama-to-be accessory! The Leader Bag Co. Julien Backpack com-plete with leather diaper clutch and a lap-top pocket.Ph

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JULY 2015 | 11

AUGUST 2015

PUBLISHED BY The Madison County Journal

PUBLISHERJames E. Prince III

ASSOCIATE EDITOR & PUBLISHERMichael Simmons

EDITORPrice Rosson

LAYOUT & DESIGNRachel Browning

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

David Wiggins, Elwin Williams, Lindsay Vallas

CONTRIBUTING WRITERSJana Hoops

EDITORIAL INTERNMary Parker Janoush

WRITING INTERNS Jamie Logan, Emily Polson,

PHOTOJOURNALIST INTERNHunt Mercier

ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVEBailey Bryan

[email protected] • 601.853.4222

ADVERTISING DESIGNGodfrey Jones

Madison County Magazine is a monthly supplement to the Madison County Journal designed to promote Madison County in an informative and positive manner. We welcome contributions of articles and photos; however, they will be subject to editing and availability of space and subject matter. Photographs, comments, questions, subscription requests and ad placement inquiries are invited! Return envelopes and postage must accompany all labeled materials submitted if a return is requested. No portion of this publication may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. The opinions expressed in Madison County Magazine are those of the authors or columnists and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products or services herein. We reserve the right to refuse any and all advertising. Subscribe to the

magazine by subscribing to the Journal, mymcj.com, or call the office at (601) 853-4222 ©

2010 Madison County Publishing Company.

MADISONC O U N T Y

AUGUST AUGUST JULY AUGUST 2015 | 112015 | 112015 | 11


SHOPPING

Callaway’s Kids Yard ChairKeep the kids outside and “rocking on”! This stylish iron rocker offers kids a comfy and cool way to relax outside in the yard!Callaway’s $44.99

HANDS-ON & HAPPY

3D Solar System KitBuild your own galaxy right at home. This kit is perfect for the future astronomer, with all the paints, planets, and tools they need to create their own solar system.Barnes and Noble $19.95

My First Music Science KitBuild your own instruments, create your own songs, start your own band and play your own tune! Everything an aspiring musician needs.Barnes and Noble $19.95

Learn to Play PianoHave your toddler playing tunes on the keys early with a child-sized piano! With a piano note guide and songbook, this piano is the perfect way to teach the young musician in your household!Olde Tyme Commissary $70

AUGUST 2015 | 13

LeapFrog Learn to Write with Mr. PencilLearn to write letters, numbers, and shapes through games and activities with the helpful Mr. Pencil!Barnes and Noble $14.95

LeapFrog LeapPad Platinum Kids’ Learning TabletKiddos must have this back to school device. This tablet offers a large learning experience with tons of educational activities and games for their enjoyment. Toys R Us $129.99

VTech Kidizoom Smartwatch Keeping up with the latest smartwatch trends, this watch allows pictures, video, and more to keep kids “tech saavy” going back to school. Toys R Us $59.99

Chalkboard Tabletop EaselPerfect to put anywhere indoors or out, this tabletop easel is great for any young artist to explore his or her creativity! Olde Tyme Commissary $50


A CAPITAL CITY

& a hip new addition Far from the norm for Mississippi and the Madison County area, fashioni-sta, modern-day mama and entre-

preneur Katie Miller is bringing rOw^10, a baby clothing boutique, to the Township.

The boutique was named for Katie’s daughter Rowan, who was born in October of 2014. Katie is excited that with the open-ing of the rOw^10 storefront she will be intro-ducing unique and modern clothes not only to Madison County and the Jackson metro-area, but also to the state and the South.

With the goal of offering hip new pieces “as unique as your little one,” Katie has searched high and low to find baby clothing that fits her style to pass on to her daughter. rOw^10 will carry baby clothing and ac-cessories for children up to 24 months. The collection will include clever and creative onesies, faux fur vests and leather leggings, hipster shades such as the Babiators, and ev-erything trendy from leggings and suspend-ers for boys to burp cloths, bandana bibs, and not-so-normal teething toys.

With the online store already up and run-ning, Katie, Rowan and all modern-day ma-mas are looking forward to the storefront’s opening on August 3rd.

“We couldn’t be more excited to intro-duce this cutting-edge fashion concept for babies to Mississippi,” says Katie.

Hip and trendy threads have made their way to Madison County. The contemporary take on fashion for the little ones is a fun new way to express unique personalities and styles for those just joining the world.

by Price Rosson

rOw 1̂0

Madison County Welcomes Two Children’s Stores

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FEATURE

Rowan Miller, namesake for rOw10 and young fashioni-sta models items available for purchase in this modern-day children’s boutique.

AUGUST 2015 | 15

Sandra Weber, owner of Olde Tyme Commissary and its sister shop Inside Out, said moving her businesses to Re-

naissance at Colony Park in Ridgeland has been one of the best decisions she’s made in her many years in the retail business.

“I have relished the opportunity to ex-pand our reach into Madison County, to bring our shoppers the very best quality toys, games, upscale gifts and handmade McCarty Pottery that our Jackson custom-ers have come to expect,” she said.

Weber opened the Olde Tyme Commis-sary in her hometown of Greenwood in 1969, and through the years has contin-ued its tradition of offering the finest dolls, games, puzzles, dress-up clothes, riding toys, puppets, art materials, science sets, toy trucks, educational toys and much more.

“From the beginning, I wanted this to be a

source for toys that would be passed down to the next generation – things that would last,” she said. “It seems that hardly a day goes by that I don’t hear a story (from a customer) about someone who purchased toys from Olde Tyme Commissary a generation or more ago whose children or even grandchil-dren are playing with them now,” she said.

She has also continued her decades-long practice of offering hand painted items, in-cluding bulletin boards, Easter baskets and buckets, wooden eggs, and Halloween buck-ets that have become holiday traditions. The Commissary’s on-site art department allows customers to see first-hand how their purchases will be decorated.

In addition to the one-of-a-kind local toy commissary, Inside Out offers a mix of upscale and vintage gift items and boasts the presti-gious claim to being the Jackson metro area’s

by Jana Hoops

OLDE TYME COMMISSARY only retail sales point for McCarty Pottery, which has been designed and handmade by Lee McCarty and his family in Merigold for more than 60 years.

The retail space that is shared by the two stores is clearly defined by the placement of a seven-foot-tall gumball machine that lets customers know instantly they’ve left Inside Out and stepped into the toy store.

With a prime location in Renaissance between Sephora and Ann Taylor (in the old Banana Re-public building), Weber is excited about the pos-sibilities the future holds for her businesses.

“I’m thrilled to be in Madison County and especially in Renaissance,” she said. “It turns out that this location is ideal for us, right here, right now. Thank you to every-one who’s made us feel so welcome!”

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The seven-foot-tall gumball machine that welcomes all to Olde Tyme Commissary.

AUGUST 2015 | 17

LIFE’S LEISURE | HOMES

Photos by Lindsay Vallas

~Peter Pan

You know that place between sleep and awake, the place where you can still remember

dreaming? That’s where I will always love you. That’s where i’ll be waiting.“ You know that place between sleep and awake, “ You know that place between sleep and awake,

”

An Etsy find, the white on slate Peter Pan Toile wallpaper with scenes of Peter and Tinkerbell, the Lost Boys, and Captain Hook and the crocodile, kick started the idea to create Neverland.

The gallery wall is a combination of old and new, including a Gary Wal-ter’s Delta Scene watercolor—a gift from the new grandparents—, the clock that ticks inside the crocodile haunting Captain Hook, a sterling sil-ver baby cup for the newborn, and McCarty Pottery accents of a gator dish and owl overlooking the nursery.

The mom-to-be’s silver cup and silver-plate rattles sit on top of classic collection of Mother Goose’s Nurs-ery Rhymes.

Vintage shelving found “picking” and repainted to Annie Sloan’s French Linen, holds more collectibles including the McCarty “Guardian Angel” and the parents’ favor-ite books—Jolly Mon by Jimmy Buffet and his daughter, Goodnight Moon and Shel Silverstein’s poems and The Giving Tree.

Sophie the Giraffe is a ma-ma’s must-have teething toy.

An old drum turned into a table representing a pirate’s walk to a drum score was found at the late Sherri L. Hilton’s estate sale in Madison.

AUGUST 2015 | 19

INDIAN HERITAGE CURTAIN PANELS IN FOG Ray’s Fine Linens | Ridgeland

BELLA NOTTE BEDDING Sweet Dreams | Madison

Chesapeake Crib Bumper in Pebble Gathered Linen Crib Skirt in Pebble Linen Crib Sheet in SeaglassGabriella Comforter in SeagullsCotton Velvet Boudoir Pillow in Seaglass

OTTOMAN IN FAUX ALLIGATOR LEATHER & GLIDER Studio B Upholstery | Ridgeland

PETER PAN TOILE WALLPAPER (WHITE ON SLATE) Emma Molony

JULIEN DIAPER BAG Leader Bag Company

JOY CRIB Bratt Decor

Soft tones of greys, greens and gentle blues compose the palette with subtle hints from the childhood favorite by J.M. Barrie, Pe-ter Pan. The gender neutral nursery can go one way or the other ter Pan. The gender neutral nursery can go one way or the other ter Panwhen the surprise bundle of joy makes its arrival. Remnants of its parents’ childhood, pieces of timeless nostalgia from the collection of books, art and silver with details that tell the story of Peter, this nursery is a labor of love, wonder and welcoming for the firstborn to these young parents. Pirates, the lost boys and Peter or pixie dust and Tinkerbell, this little one will be coming home to Neverland.

A faux crocodile leather ottoman, that will serve many purposes throughout the life of this little one, is a playful presence of the crocodile that constantly pursues Cap-tain Hook.

The Bella Notte bedding of soft linens and cool tones creates a place “where dreams are born and time is never planned…where hearts will fly on wings forever, in Never Never Land.”

A Madame Alexander’s Peter Pan doll from the young mother’s col-lection looks over the nursery completing the room’s story of the young boy who would never grow up.

AUGUST 2015 | 21

YOUR BABY’S FIRST WORD WILL BE DADAby Jimmy Fallon

Your Baby’s First Word Will Be Dada is a best seller for any par-ent to have this year. In what he describes as “pure selfishness,” Fallon creates a family story for both parents and children. With a variety of animal fathers all trying to get their babies to say “Dada,” Jimmy Fallon’s first children’s book is a must-have this summer!

Lost Ocean: AN INKY ADVENTURE AND COLORING BOOKby Johanna Basford

Lost Ocean: An Inky Adventure and Coloring Book gives young and Coloring Book gives young and Coloring Bookreaders the thrill of giving their own colors to Basford’s words. With her previous works Secret Garden and Enchanted Forest being Enchanted Forest being Enchanted Forestso successful, Lost Ocean is set to be a big hit with children this

From new authors and old, these four newly-released children’s books are a fun addition to any collection.

fall. Through color, readers will bring to life exotic fish, octopi, and many more sea creatures, all while exploring coral reefs and even finding lost treasure.

WHAT PET SHOULD I GET?by Dr. Seuss

He’s back with a never-be-fore-seen picture book! What Pet Should I Get? is Dr. Seuss’ latest Should I Get? is Dr. Seuss’ latest Should I Get?release, the story of a brother and sister visiting a pet shop to choose a pet. But as only cus-tomary, the choice is too hard, and they can’t just choose one. In his signature rhyming style, Dr. Seuss gives his readers a classic childhood moment with a life lesson on decision-making. With a personal touch of notes about Dr. Seuss’ own pets, as well as the excitement over the discovery an unpublished man-uscript, Seuss fans of all ages can’t miss this book. After all, a person’s a person no matter how small!

by Mary Parker Janoush

must-haveRELEASES

NEW

LIFE’S LEISURE | BOOKS

FEATURE

Back again for the second year are the cutest and most colorful characters of Madison County. Though small in stature, these little ones often have unexpected wisdom to offer, and we can learn a lesson through the eyes of a child as these small footprints teach us what life is all about. Children remind us to face each day as a bright and new beginning. After all, as Dr. Seuss reminds us, “Today you are you, it is truer than true! There is no one alive that is you-er than you!”

YOU ARE

true! There is no one alive that is you-er than you!”

TODAY

YOUg gPhotos by David Wiggins

THREE WORDS THAT DESCRIBE ME ARE…

silly, silly and silly.

WHAT DO YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU GROW UP?

Artist (painter)

IF YOU COULD BE AN ANIMAL, WHICH ANIMAL WOULD YOU BE?

Cow

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE FOOD? AND LEAST FAVORITE FOOD?

Grilled cheese, I want it every night! / green beans

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE COLOR? Pink and purple

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE HOBBY? Playing in water

WHERE IS YOUR FAVORITE PLACE IN THE WORLD? My playset

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE THE KIDS YOUNGER THAN YOU? I would read books to them.

IF YOU COULD BREAK ONE RULE, WHAT RULE WOULD YOU BREAK? Break a stick?

IF YOU COULD MAKE ONE RULE THAT EVERYONE IN THE WORLD HAD TO FOLLOW, WHAT WOULD THAT RULE BE? Take a nap

NORALYNNGUERIERI


fun, silly, sweet.

WHAT DID YOU DO ON YOUR BIRTHDAY?

I went to a MSU football game.

WHO IS YOUR BEST FRIEND?

Jack Brewer

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SONG?

All Bubble Guppies songs

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ANIMAL?

Horses

I AM REALLY GOOD AT… dancing and singing.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING TO DO TO PASS THE TIME? Play hide and seek

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE FOOD? AND LEAST FAVORITE FOOD? Hello Kitty gummy snacks / pineapple

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE BOOK? The Hungry Caterpillar

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE TOY? Any kind of ball

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THREE WORDS THAT DESCRIBE ME ARE… happy, goofy, fearless.

WHAT DID YOU DO ON YOUR BIRTHDAY?Pajama birthday breakfast

WHO IS YOUR BEST FRIEND? My sister Emma

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SONG? Mickey Mouse Hot Diggity Dog

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ANIMAL? Doggies

I AM REALLY GOOD AT… dancing.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING TO DO TO PASS THE TIME?

Run crazy


Pizza / edamame

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE BOOK? Biscuit and the Little Pup

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE TOY? Baseball bat

MCELROYEMMA

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laid-back, charming, curious.

WHAT DID YOU DO ON YOUR BIRTHDAY? Had a “Party Animal” birthday

party with my family.

WHO IS YOUR BEST FRIEND? My sister, Waverly

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SONG? “Peanut Butter Jelly Time” by Buckwheat Boyz

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ANIMAL? Monkey

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THREE WORDS THAT DESCRIBE ME ARE. smart, independent, silly

WHAT DID YOU DO ON YOUR BIRTHDAY? Ate my first piece of cake!

WHO IS YOUR BEST FRIEND? My grandfathers: Bob and Pop

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SONG? BINGO

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ANIMAL? Cow

I AM REALLY GOOD AT… saying my colors and animal sounds.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING TO DO TO PASS THE TIME? Watch "Choo-Choo" (Thomas and Friends) or play blocks

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE FOOD? AND LEAST FAVORITE FOOD? Any type of berries / tomatoes

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE BOOK? Little Blue Truck

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE TOY? Thomas play train

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WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE TOY? Thomas play train

I AM REALLY GOOD AT… eating like a grown man.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING TO DO TO PASS THE TIME? Play outside

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE FOOD? AND LEAST FAVORITE FOOD? Favorite - Monkey Bread; Least Favorite - Strawberries

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE BOOK? The Little Engine That Could

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE TOY? Bouncy Ballso

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WAVERLY

THREE WORDS THAT DESCRIBE ME ARE… motherly, persistent, entertaining.

WHAT DO YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU GROW UP? A mermaid

IF YOU COULD BE AN ANIMAL, WHICH ANIMAL WOULD YOU BE?

An elephant

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE FOOD? AND LEAST FAVORITE FOOD? Quesadillas / Peas

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE COLOR? Pink

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE HOBBY? Swimming

WHERE IS YOUR FAVORITE PLACE IN THE WORLD? The Splash Pad

IF YOU COULD BREAK ONE RULE, WHAT RULE WOULD YOU BREAK?

I would eat ice cream for dinner.

IF YOU COULD MAKE ONE RULE THAT EVERYONE IN THE WORLD HAD TO FOLLOW, WHAT WOULD THAT RULE BE?

Everyone has to eat cupcakes and have a party!

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THREE WORDS THAT DESCRIBE ME ARE… sweet, happy, and peek-a-boo.

WHAT DID YOU DO ON YOUR BIRTHDAY? We invited friends over to my house where I had a Brown Bear-themed party with a moon bounce in my backyard!

WHO IS YOUR BEST FRIEND? My daddy

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SONG? Turn Down for What and Wheels on the Bus

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ANIMAL? My dog, Captain

I AM REALLY GOOD AT… closing all of the doors in the house

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING TO DO TO PASS THE TIME? Play Peek-a-boo (we are obsessed)


Mac and Cheese / Anything new

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE BOOK? Llama Llama Red Pajama

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE TOY? Blocks and my blanket

closing all of the doors in the house

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING TO DO TO PASS THE TIME? Play Peek-a-boo (we are obsessed)


Mac and Cheese / Anything new

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE BOOK? Llama Llama Red Pajama

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE TOY? Blocks and my blanket

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THREE WORDS THAT DESCRIBE ME ARE…loving, friendly, energetic.

WHAT DID YOU DO ON YOUR BIRTHDAY? I had all of my family over for a popsicle party.

WHO IS YOUR BEST FRIEND? All of my cousins

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SONG? Itsy Bitsy Spider

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ANIMAL? A duck

I AM REALLY GOOD AT…making a mess.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING TO DO TO PASS THE TIME? Play outside or Kick Kick (Swim)

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE FOOD? AND LEAST FAVORITE FOOD? Cheese / anything green

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE BOOK? Where’s Spot

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE TOY? I have lots of favorites… anything Elmo, babydolls, and my pink ball because pink is my favorite color.


I have lots of favorites… anything Elmo, babydolls, and

THREE WORDS THAT DESCRIBE ME… adventurous, full of life, spunky.

WHAT DID YOU DO FOR YOUR BIRTHDAY? I had a sprinkle party with sprinkles everywhere. I

celebrated with my closest family in Ripley.

WHO IS YOUR BEST FRIEND? My daddy

WHAT IS MY FAVORITE SONG? You are My Sunshine

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ANIMAL? Monkey

I AM REALLY GOOD AT....playing hide and go seek.

WHAT IS MY FAVORITE THING TO DO TO PASS THE TIME? I love to play outside in the swimming pool or my playhouse.

WHAT IS MY FAVORITE FOOD? AND LEAST FAVORITE? Toss up between peanut butter and jelly sandwich and

ice cream / Blackberries “No like 'em, Momma”

WHAT IS MY FAVORITE BOOK? If You're Hoppy by April Pulley Sayre

WHAT IS MY FAVORITE TOY? My doctor set

THURMONDCLARA ROSS

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THREE WORDS THAT DESCRIBE ME ARE…energetic, curious, happy.

WHAT DID YOU DO ON YOUR BIRTHDAY? I was born into this world and had a lot of people hold me.

WHO IS YOUR BEST FRIEND? My cousin, Paylor Jordan

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SONG? Jesus Loves Me

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ANIMAL? My teddy bear

I AM REALLY GOOD AT… crawling and standing up.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING TO DO TO PASS THE TIME? Pull everything out of drawers that I can open

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE FOOD? AND LEAST FAVORITE FOOD? Sweet potatoes / Avocado

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE BOOK? Old McDonald Had a Farm— Finger puppet book

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE TOY? A starfish from my bath toy collection

THREE WORDS THAT DESCRIBE ME ARE... Sweet, funny, energetic

WHAT DID YOU DO ON YOUR BIRTHDAY? I had an Elsa/Anna party. Elsa was there!

WHO IS YOUR BEST FRIEND? My sister, Carter and Amelia Chandler

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SONG? Itsy Bitsy Spider

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ANIMAL? Elephant

I AM REALLY GOOD AT… tennis.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING TO DO TO PASS THE TIME? Watch Mickey Mouse

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE FOOD? AND LEAST FAVORITE FOOD? Sandwich / asparagus

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE BOOK? My Easter book, Easter Surprise

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE TOY? Baby Jasmine

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THREE WORDS THAT DESCRIBE ME ARE...

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THREE WORDS THAT DESCRIBE ME ARE… funny, sassy, wild.

WHAT DID YOU DO ON YOUR BIRTHDAY? Ate Elmo cake

WHO IS YOUR BEST FRIEND? Cohen Branch

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SONG? Twinkle Twinkle Little Star

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ANIMAL? A piggie

I AM REALLY GOOD AT… swinging.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING TO DO TO PASS THE TIME? Mickey Mouse

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE FOOD? AND LEAST FAVORITE FOOD? Watermelon / bread

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE BOOK?Llama Llama Red Pajama

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE TOY? My baby Sally

FOWLER

FOWLER

KATHERINE

CARTER

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE TOY?

FOWLERKATHERINE

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE TOY?

FOWLERKATHERINEFOWLERKATHERINE

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THREE WORDS THAT DESCRIBE ME ARE…fearless, outgoing, fun-loving.

WHAT DID YOU DO ON YOUR BIRTHDAY? Went swimming and tubing in the lake

WHO ARE YOUR BEST FRIENDS? Bardin Newton, Neil White and Paylor Jordan

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SONG? Anything by Elvis

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ANIMAL? Ducks

I AM REALLY GOOD AT…dancing. Love it!

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING TO DO TO PASS THE TIME? Jumping in the water and fishing.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE FOOD? AND LEAST FAVORITE? Cookies & popsicles / carrots

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE BOOK? Dr. Suess

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE TOY? His drum set, baseball glove & ball and bubbles.

JOHN CARTER

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WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE FOOD?

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE BOOK?

THREE WORDS THAT DESCRIBE ME ARE…funny, determined, loving.


The Madison fire truck came to my house, and I had a bounce house

with my cousins from Virginia. I was in isolation from my bone

marrow transplant, so I couldn't be around any other kids at that

point. That night I had a pirate-themed party at my grandparents’

complete with a cardboard box boat my aunt from Seattle made for me.

WHO IS YOUR BEST FRIEND? Lily next door.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SONG?

"My God is Powerful," learned at Everest VBS at First Baptist

Madison this summer, complete with hand motions!

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ANIMAL? Dog.

I AM REALLY GOOD AT…fixing things with my tools.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING TO DO TO PASS THE TIME? Look for roly pollies.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE FOOD? AND LEAST FAVORITE FOOD? Peanut toast (this is a piece of bread, NOT toasted, with the crust cut off and cut into STRIPS- definitely not folded!) / cheese.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE BOOK? Kids' First Bible and Five Little Monkeys Jumping On the Bed

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE TOY? Tractors.

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The Madison fire truck came to my

THREE WORDS THAT DESCRIBE ME ARE… curious, busy, social.

WHAT DID YOU DO ON YOUR BIRTHDAY? I have not had my birthday yet! But, I am having a Minnie Mouse themed pool party.

WHO IS YOUR BEST FRIEND? My mamma

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SONG? “Shake It Off” by Taylor Swift

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ANIMAL? Dogs (specifically yorkies)

I AM REALLY GOOD AT… talking and crab walking.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING TO DO TO PASS THE TIME? dance, read my books, ride in my cozy coupe, watch videos of myself

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE FOOD? AND LEAST FAVORITE FOOD? Cheese quesadilla / Prunes

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE BOOK? Hop on Pop by Dr. Seuss

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE TOY? “Magic Flower” (a colorful stuffed flower that lights up and plays classical music)

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TWO WORDS THAT DESCRIBE ME ARE… fun and happy.

WHAT DID YOU DO ON YOUR BIRTHDAY? Jumpy Castle

WHO ARE YOUR BEST FRIENDS?Caleb and Daniel

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SONG? Eye of the Tiger

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ANIMAL? Tiger

I AM REALLY GOOD AT…running.


Bananas / vegetables

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE BOOK? Cat in the Hat

WHAT ADVICE WOULD GIVE THE KIDS YOUNGER THAN YOU?

How to build Legos

IF YOU COULD MAKE ONE RULE THAT EVERYONE IN THE WORLD HAD TO

FOLLOW, WHAT WOULD THAT RULE BE? Be nice

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TWO WORDS THAT DESCRIBE ME ARE…


IF YOU COULD MAKE ONE RULE THAT

FOLLOW, WHAT WOULD THAT RULE BE?

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THREE WORDS THAT DESCRIBE ME ARE… friendly, active, caring.

WHAT DO YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU GROW UP? Construction worker

WHAT DID YOU DO ON YOUR BIRTHDAY? Eat cake

IF YOU COULD BE AN ANIMAL, WHICH ANIMAL WOULD YOU BE? A bobcat

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE FOOD? AND LEAST FAVORITE FOOD? Vegetable tacos / mashed potatoes

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE COLOR? Red

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE HOBBY? Baseball

WHERE IS YOUR FAVORITE PLACE IN THE WORLD? Home

WHO ARE YOUR BEST FRIENDS? Hunter and Jack

IF YOU COULD MAKE ONE RULE THAT EVERYONE IN THE WORLD HAD TO FOLLOW, WHAT WOULD THAT RULE BE? Don’t hit someone

THREE WORDS THAT DESCRIBE ME ARE… spunky, barefoot, big bows.

WHAT DO YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU GROW UP? A country music singer like Carrie Underwood.

WHO IS YOUR BEST FRIEND? Aunt Emmy (DUH!)

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SONG? “Uptown Funk” by Bruno Mars & “Shake it Off” by Taylor Swift

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ANIMAL? My two dogs, Yogi and Sadie

I AM REALLY GOOD AT… showing my “pretty lips.”

WHERE IS YOUR FAVORITE PLACE TO BE? Sitting by my daddy watching our favorite movie, All Dogs Go to Heaven.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE FOOD? Popsicles

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE BOOK? Brown Bear, Brown Bear

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE TOY? My mom’s heels

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qq qq qqTHREE WORDS THAT DESCRIBE ME ARE… active, alert, and curious!


After I made my way into the world, I got to hang out with my mom and

dad, aunts and uncles, my cousin Rowan, and my grandparents a lot!

WHO IS YOUR BEST FRIEND? My best friends are my cousins Rowan

and Rhett. Rowan is 8 weeks older than I am, and Rhett is 8 weeks younger!

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SONG? I like lots of music, but I laugh really

hard when my mommy dances to “Uptown Funk “by Bruno Mars!

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ANIMAL?

I love puppy dogs! My dogs Delta, Dover, and Ringo are my favorites!

I AM REALLY GOOD AT…crawling, helping my parents turn the pages in my books, and eating!

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING TO DO TO PASS THE TIME? I like to play with my toys, crawl around and explore, take naps, and play with my friends at Mother’s Morning Out.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE FOOD? AND LEAST FAVORITE FOOD? I really like green peas, and I do not like bananas!

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE BOOK? God Thinks You’re Wonderful by Max Lucado. Mommy reads it to me all the time!

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE TOY? My stuffed lion, Mr. Roarsly

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qqq FAVORITE ANIMAL? FAVORITE ANIMAL? I love puppy dogs! My dogs Delta, I love puppy dogs! My dogs Delta, I love puppy dogs! My dogs Delta,

Dover, and Ringo are my favorites!Dover, and Ringo are my favorites!Dover, and Ringo are my favorites!

AUGUST 2015 | 37


Inspired by his grandmother to join the culinary world, David Ferris is a self-declared family man. With over a decade of life in the heat of a kitchen and experience in Mississippi’s culinary scene—David was instrumental in helping start and run restaurants includ-ing Greenwood’s Giardina’s Restaurant in the Alluvian Hotel and Babalu Tacos and Tapas— David has recently taken on a new role as Culinary Specialist with Sysco Foods, serving over 500 locations and assisting in all operations of the restaurants’ and businesses’ food service.

As his girls were growing up and he was missing out due to the demands of the restaurant industry, David decided he wanted noth-

ing more than to be able to be at home and be a dad. The move was made, and to David and his girls, it’s all about coming home. By put-ting family first and finding inspiration in his own kitchen, David is sharing his love of food and family with the next generation.

“This recipe has been prepared and served in our family for over 50 years, and it is Tinsley and Metta Margaret’s favorite,” says David.

Even though it may feel like life outside of a restaurant’s kitchen has not slowed down, food and family go hand-in-hand, and in his own words, “This is what it’s all about. I love coming home!”

Ferris FamilyIN THE KITCHEN WITH THE

A Foundation of Food and Familyby Price Rosson

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LIFE’S LEISURE | FOOD

The Ferris Family, David, Metta Margaret and Tin-sley (seated) is always cooking up something spending quality time over food with a side of family.

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1. Mix first nine ingredients thoroughly, adding just enough water to work well

but still hold shape. Form into balls (12-15) and cook in hot fat until golden brown on all sides. Add to boiling sauce.

2. Sauce: In a large heavy saucepan or skillet; sauté onion in a small amount of

cooking oil until lightly browned. Add all other ingredients, plus about 2 quarts of water. Bring to boil.

3. When mixture is boiling, add browned meatballs and cook over medium heat

Let simmer for 2 hours on low heat until thickened. Stirring every once in a while. The longer they simmer the better the sauce and the flavor will brighten. Serve over spaghetti and sprinkle with grated Parmesan or Romano cheese.

MEATBALLS:1 lb. lean ground beef 1 c. fine cracker crumbs3 whole eggs (medium)1 clove garlic, grated1 Tbsp. finely chopped parsley½ c. grated Parmesan or Romano cheese1 tsp. salt¼ tsp. black pepper¼ tsp. red pepper

SAUCE:1 chopped onion2- 6 oz. cans tomato sauce2- 6 oz. cans tomato paste1 clove garlic, grated1 tsp. salt1 tsp. sugar¼ tsp. black pepper¼ tsp. red pepper

Meatballs & Sauce

for Spaghetti

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A dream involving popsicles is one the entire family can get behind.

Following the craze started by Steel City Pops in Birmingham, two new gourmet ice pop businesses set up shop in Jackson earlier this year. The Kinsleys first docked their Pop Culture Pops cart out-side of The Capri during Fondren’s First Thursday back in March, and the Frank-lins opened the doors to Deep South Pops in the Belhaven neighborhood this past June.

These two families share not only a love for popsicles, but also a passion for old school, family-friendly local businesses and turning dreams into realities.

Craig and Lori Kinsley had been dream-ing about Pop Culture Pops since they moved from Birmingham to Jackson three years ago, but it wasn’t until they revisited Steel City Pops on an anniversary trip ear-lier this year that they decided to go for it.

“We had one of our friends build the cart,

POPPOP UPshops

Favorite Treats of Childhood Take a Family-Friendly Spin Throughout the Metro

by Emily Polson

Pop Culture Pops: Coconut, Pear Plum, and Pineapple Jala-peño are a refreshing treat during the dog days of summer.

SOUTH BOUND


and Craig got started on some of the reci-pes,” says Lori.

Despite no previous experience in food service, Craig began experimenting with fresh fruit and simple syrup made from or-ganic cane sugar. Now the stand regularly offers unique flavors like raspberry-goat milk kefir, sweet potato, and strawberry balsamic.

“I just kind of find whatever’s really ripe, whatever’s fresh, whatever we can get local-ly, and just play around with it,” says Craig. This includes making their blackberry cream pops with berries from Kazery Farm in Jackson, and experimenting with new fla-vors from seasonal ingredients available at local grocery stores.

“Today I did a pineapple cilantro,” says Craig. “It actually turned out really well.”

The ice pop trend was inspired by the Mexican tradition of “paletas,” ice pops made with fresh produce. “They wanted a way to kind of sneak in healthy fruits and vegetables and get their kids to eat them,” says Craig. The Kinsleys say their four-year-old daughter Piper is a picky eater, but she loves the watermelon and avocado pops.

“She’s never eaten a watermelon,” says Craig. “[But] she’s eaten a watermelon pop today already.”

The response in the community has been tremendous since their March debut.

They’ve done corporate events, vacation Bible school, and birthday parties, as well as set up shop for the Livingston Farmer’s Market and after-hours events at the Mis-sissippi Museum of Art.

“We’ve had marketing companies ap-proach us and say, ‘What did you guys do?’ We didn’t do anything. We didn’t have any plan,” says Craig. He attributes their success to a combination of the simplicity of their ingredients and the aesthetic of a neighborhood business.

“We’re kind of something that has a vin-tage feel to it, you know,” says Craig. “We’re just a cart on the street corner.”

They plan to continue year round, open-ing a storefront in Fondren mainly for man-ufacturing purposes. Their flavors will shift with the seasons and availability of produce. Strawberry lemonade and watermelon are staples for the summer, but with the cold-er months flavors like pumpkin spice and chocolate peppermint will pop up.

“American dream in a sense,” says Craig of starting a business from scratch with a popsicle cart. “We took our tax return and built it.”

Deep South Pops down the road in the Belhaven neighborhood is modeled on the same tradition, but it has a unique appeal. This pop-shop doubles as a coffee house,

and in the evenings and afternoons, a good place to stop in for a beer.

Opening day had been a year in the mak-ing for the Franklins—Jake, Kristy, and their four children.

“We’ve been enjoying eating [pops] as consumers for quite some time,” says Jake. “[We’d] been looking for an idea for a busi-ness that we could start together and run as a family.”

Deep South Pops offers a unique array of flavors, from the standard buttermilk and chocolate, to blueberry sour cream and grapefruit rosemary. Perhaps their most innovative and popular creation: Creole cream cheesecake.

“Our neighbor was a big fan of this Cre-ole cream cheese made by Kenny Mauthe, a Mississippi dairy farmer,” says Jake. “This neighbor of ours brought us some cream cheese and said, ‘I want y’all to make me a popsicle.’ And so we made him a bunch of popsicles, we came up with the recipe, and it was such a hit we added it onto the menu.”

Recipe inspiration has not been the only contribution of their neighbors. The Frank-lins try to stay local as much as they can, from their architect, graphic designer, and equipment supplier, to the food and drink itself—they brew from Mississippi Cof-itself—they brew from Mississippi Cof-itself—they brew from Mississippi Coffee Company beans, sell beer from Missis-

The Kinsley family of Pop Culture: Lori, Craig, and Piper set up in front of the Capri theater ready to share their family pops with customers.

Deep South Pop’s Franklin Family: Kristy, Jake, Annalise, Elias, Ga-briel, and Gideon offer customers pops, coffee, and more at their new shop located in a historic lo-cation across the street from Mill-saps. Fun fact: Ask Jake to share the Elvis story!

AUGUST 2015 | 43

sippi breweries, and source gelato from Sweet Magnolia Ice Cream Co. in Clarksdale, Miss.

Jake says the building was just a shell when they purchased it. So he got to work, building everything except the big com-munity room table himself—the tables, countertops, barn doors, and even the light fixtures. “It’s been a lot of work, but it’s been pretty fun,” he says.

It’s been quite the family affair, too. The Franklins home-school their kids, so the oldest two got to spend a lot of time in the shop doing schoolwork while dad worked on the building.

“We’ve been having a lot of customers,” says seven-year-old Annalise Franklin, glad to have the shop finally open. On opening day she was happy to prattle off the varieties of soda offered and to recommend her favorite ice pop flavors—va-nilla and strawberry lemonade.

Jake had some recommendations as well—“That Creole cream cheese popsicle dropped in a stout or porter is just unbelievable.”

Deep South Pops has a community room in their shop which is available for parties. They also have an old-fash-ioned bicycle ice-cream cart and a 1967 Ford F100 pickup for off-site events.

Jake and his family have poured themselves into their storefront, and later this month, their coffee shop appeal mixed with their prime location between Belhaven Univer-sity and Millsaps College is sure to draw in the returning stu-dent population.

Craig has a different vision for his family’s ice pop endeav-or, focusing on growing the cart businesses rather than creat-ing a hub in their storefront. “We’re going to be having carts and even just vending coolers all over the metro area,” says Craig, envisioning Pop Culture Pops for sale in places like Whole Foods, Renaissance, and Dogwood.

Between two businesses and the countless flavor offerings and drink pairings, there really is, as Jake says, “a little some-thing for everybody.”

Find Pop Culture Pops outside of The Capri Theatre, 3023 North State St., Tuesday through Saturday, 12-6 p.m. Deep South Pops is located at 1800 North State St., open every day from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Piper Kinsley enjoying her fa-vorite Pop Culture flavor, Wa-termelon to cool down in July.

Deep South Pop’s custom built interior with fun and cool colors offer a hip place to relax and hangout.


EVENTSFUN- RAISERSAUGUST 8, 7AMTRI4LIFE Triathlon The hottest, fastest triathlon in the state! Proceeds support Center for Pregnancy ChoicesRoss Barnett Reservoirimathlete.com/events/EventOverview

AUGUST 8, 5:30 PMSprint and Splash 5KSponsored by The Club and Fleet Feet, a 5K where post-race events are swimming in the Club’s resort pool and listening to live music! An event for the whole family with a ½ mile kids run!msracetiming.com/Dash_and_Splash_5K.php

AUGUST 15, 7:30 AM21st Annual Moman & Harris 5K Run/WalkNew Hope Baptist Church, 5202 Watkins Drive-Jackson (601) 366-7002 | mstrackclub.com

FESTIVALSAUGUST 8, 7:30Magnolia Ballroom Dancers’ Association Monthly DanceMadison Square Center For the Artsmagnoliaballroomdancers.com

AUGUST 13, 6:30 PMMadison’s Night Out: Madison BluesMadison Square Center for the [email protected] | (601) 856-7060

AUGUST 22-23, VARIOUS TIMESMississippi Craft ShowMississippi Trade Martmscraftshow.com

MUSICAUGUST 7, DOORS OPEN 7 PM & MUSIC 8 PMWhite AnimalsDuling Hallardenland.net | (601) 292-7999

AUGUST 8, DOORS OPEN 7 PM & MUSIC 8 PMClaire Holley with Johnathan KinghamDuling Hallardenland.net | (601) 299-7999

AUGUST 8, DOORS OPEN 7 PM & MUSIC 8 PMWhite AnimalsThe Thirsty Hippoardenland.net | (601) 299-7999

AUGUST 11, DOORS OPEN 6:30 PM & MUSIC 7:30 PMJill Scott with BJ The Chicago KidThalia Maraardenland.net | (601) 299-7999

AUGUST 16, 2 PMMississippi Old Time Music Society Mississippi Craft Center(601) 942-7335

AUGUST 14-15, VARIOUS TIMESJackson Rhythm and Blues FestivalMississippi Agriculture and Forestry Museumjacksonrhythmandbluesfestival.com

See Claire Holley at Duling Hall on August 8!

AUGUST 2015 | 45

AUGUST 18, 5:15 PMMusic in the CityMississippi Museum of Artmsmuseumart.org | (601) 960-1515

AUGUST 20, DOORS OPEN 7 PM& MUSIC 8:00 PMGrits and Soul with The Valley Roots, Honeyboy BootsHal and Mal’sardenland.net | (601) 299-7999

AUGUST 22, DOORS OPEN 7 PM & MUSIC 8 PMBen Marney and Homecookin’ Reunion with The Crooked String BandDuling Hallardenland.net | (601) 299-7999

AUGUST 29, DOORS OPEN 7 PM & MUSIC 8 PMTodd RundgrenDuling Hallardenland.net | (601) 299-7999

ARTAUGUST 11, 5:30 PMLook Closely and See Series: Wardlaw Here and NowMississippi Museum of Art msmuseumart.org | (601) 960-1515

AUGUST 15, 9 AM-4 PMWyatt Waters Watercolor Workshop-“Learn to See in Color”Mississippi Museum of Art msmuseumart.org | (601) 960-1515

AUGUST 20, 5:30 PM-10 PM, TRIVIA 7 PMMuseum After HoursMississippi Museum of Art msmuseumart.org | (601) 960-1515

AUGUST 27, 6:30 PMAIA Movie NightMississippi Museum of Art msmuseumart.org | (601) 960-1515

SEPTEMBER 3, 1:30 PMA History of Painting Processes and Materials with Jeff HodgesMississippi Museum of Art msmuseumart.org | (601) 960-1515

BOOK SIGNINGS & READINGSAUGUST 4, 5 & 5:30 PMThe Story of Land and Sea by Katy The Story of Land and Sea by Katy The Story of Land and SeaSimpson SmithLemuria Bookslemuriabooks.com

AUGUST 6, 5 & 5:30 PMThe Redeemers by Ace AtkinsLemuria Bookslemuriabooks.com

AUGUST 12, 5 & 5:30 PMThree Rivers by Tiffany Quay TysonLemuria Bookslemuriabooks.com

AUGUST 18, 5 & 5:30 PMYard War by Taylor KitchingsLemuria Bookslemuriabooks.com

AUGUST 22, 10 AMMississippi Book FestivalCome out and celebrate Mississippi’s authors with live music, panel discussions, signings and more!Mississippi State Capitol msbookfestival.com


M iracle

AUGUST 2015 | 47

SOUTHERLY COMFORT

Joseph Voynik was just twelve when he came up with an idea that would change his life—and the lives of others—for good. The day got off to a surreal start as Joseph and his father Ed-

die joined Pittsburgh Pirates fans in a stadium far from home. Jo-seph always had a passion for baseball, but on that day, his passion became something more when he witnessed an advertisement for the National Miracle League, an organization devoted to giving children of all abilities the chance to play baseball.

“I saw commercials for their Miracle League field and wanted to help with it, but I realized I couldn’t go there because of school and sports,” Joseph explained. He began to explore other avenues in hopes of making a difference closer to home.

“I decided to raise money to build a Miracle League baseball field in the Jackson Metro area for people from all over the state to come and enjoy,” Joseph said. “I pitched the idea to our Global Leader-ship Institute at Jackson Prep, and they got behind it.”

A consortium of staff and students pitched in to make Joseph’s dream a reality. Together, they created the Miracle Mile Walk/Run, a fund-raiser for the cause. “Once people heard about the Miracle Mile Walk/Run and the cause, it began to catch on,” Joseph said. “In March 2014, over $10,000 was raised by the students, faculty and leadership at Jack-son Prep to be used as seed money for a Miracle League field.”

When Joseph and his parents presented their proposal to various cities around central Mississippi, one location stuck out above the others. The city of Ridgeland was selected as the leading candidate for the state’s first ever Miracle League field.

“I think they stand out in that their Parks and Rec department already offers so much for kids with special needs compared to other cities in the area. That really impressed me,” said Tammy Voynik, who serves as chairman for the newly created Miracle League of Central MS. “Joseph shared his story with them and his interest in bringing the field here. With high interests they said they may have a place for it at Hite Wolcott.”

The potential site, located on McClellan Drive, is part of a quad with three other baseball fields. “The nice thing about it is that it’s integrated with all of the other fields,” said Tammy. “That’s something Joseph liked.”

At the end of the day, Joseph wants special needs children to go home from the ball field with their brothers and sisters after a normal game day experience. “I just feel like people with special needs… they don’t really get everything we get,” he said. “My mom is in a wheel chair. She can’t do some of the things we can do.”

Ridgeland’s Challenger League is composed of six teams of kids with special needs who would benefit immediately. These teams, who

currently play on dirt fields, are often rained out because the surfaces become too soft for wheelchairs and walkers. “With the special sur-face, even if it rains, you can get it ready to play,” Tammy explained.

The updated field will boast latex-free rubber cement turf requiring very little maintenance; however, the surface alone will cost roughly $150,000. “What’s great about that location is that the infrastructure’s already there,” said Eddie Voynik. The family and their partners will save money since accessible bathrooms, lighting, and drainage are already covered. The location is the first priority.

“I think Ridgeland has really stepped to the plate, so to speak,” Eddie said. “We want to make sure that Joseph’s gift to whoever it goes to is properly utilized and isn’t just set aside.”

Above all, Joseph hopes to create relationships between volunteers and players that will change the lives of everyone who visits the field.

“Just because you’re young doesn’t mean you can’t make a differ-ence,” said his mom. She, her husband, and Joseph’s younger sister are doing their best to make his dream come true.

Joseph, now fourteen, has visited fields from Louisiana to Georgia to gain a better understanding of the National Miracle League.

He has done all of this to give children of all abilities the chance to play the sport they love. “If I were to tell you about an organized baseball league, you might call it ordinary,” his website reads. “If I were to tell you the athletes are physically and/or mentally chal-lenged, you might call it touching. But if you were to see them play, you would call it a miracle.”

Joseph’s mission is just that simple; he wants to create his very own miracle right here in Mississippi.

A Young Philanthropist Steps Up to the Plate

creating a M iracle

by Jamie Logan

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Joseph Voynik, now 14, was inspired at age 12 to begin his quest bringing Madison County the state’s only National Miracle League baseball field giving all children the chance to play his favorite sport.


SIGHTS & SCENESSIGHTS & SCENESSIGHTS & SCENES

Donna Gonzales and Barbara Duplichain celebrate a great finish on a patriotic morning.

Bride-to-Be Mary Alex Street celebrates a finished run with fiancé Peyton Thigpen.

Nestu Raul Anzola is red, white, and blue all over post race with his Uncle Sam attire.

WAPT’s Keegan Fox, Alli Ware, and Brittany Bell enjoying the annual classic held by Farm Bureau.

Festive and patriotic Nathaly Espinoza and Michelle Ngyuen of Ridgeland celebrate an early morning July 4th.

Gary Viljoen, Oscar Burris, and Joe Coetzee participate in the celebrations and activities of Watermelon Run 2015.

Participants from all over the state in Farm Bureau’s annual Watermelon Classic 5k enjoyed yet another year of an excit-ing and patriotic way to kick-start their 4th of July!

WATERMELON RUNPhotos by Elwin Williams

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today you are you!

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