Madison318web

Volume 4 Number 3 

March/April 2018 

From Here To Broadway 

____________________ 

Bathed in Love 

____________________ 

GARDENS OF MADISON COUNTY

Hometown madison • 3

PUBLISHER & EDITOR 

Tahya A. Dobbs 

CFO 

Kevin W. Dobbs 

CONSULTING EDITOR 

Mary Ann Kirby 

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES 

Dacia Durr Amis 

Karla Johnson 

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS 

Camille Anding 

Elizabeth Bennett 

Jennifer Bird 

Dani Edmonson 


Susan Marquez 

Abbie Walker 

Ruth Whitley 

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER 

Othel Anding 

CONTRIBUTING 

PHOTOGRAPHER 

Amile Wilson 

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT 

Alisha Floyd 

The groundhog has nothing to do with the arrival of spring! Shadows and groundhogs hiding from 

the sun are totally off my radar. 

My husband, Kevin, announces spring each year when he brings me the first bouquet of flowers 

that he picks in our backyard. The fragrance of those bright yellow faces instantly takes me back to 

my childhood. 

Their appearance, regardless of the frosty ground they might have had to battle, meant spring was 

cleaning up after winter’s harsh visit. An occasional late snow or one more hard freeze was always a 

possibility but the spring flowers told me not to worry. Spring was coming. 

Easter has been and will always be the bonus that arrives with spring. 

The harshness of the cross and the suffering and sorrow that is ascribed to 

our Savior was immeasurable. 

But morning came! Death was defeated for all who would trust in Jesus. 

New life was available, and spring arrived to celebrate that amazing truth. 

It rolls in every year and the groundhog can’t take any of the credit. 

Just watch for the flowers–and remember the cross. 

SPECIAL PROJECTS MANAGER 

Brenda McCall 

PROJECT ASSISTANT 

Carrie Truhett 

LAYOUT DESIGN 

Daniel Thomas - 3dt 

• • • 

www.facebook.com 

/hometownmadisonmagazine 

For subscription information 

visit www.htmags.com 

Contact us at info@HTMags.com 

601.706.4059 

26 Eastgate Drive, Suite F 

Brandon MS 39042 

• • • 

All rights reserved. No portion of Hometown Madison 

may be reproduced without written permission from 

the publisher. The management of Hometown Madison 

is not responsible for opinions expressed by its 

writers or editors. Hometown Madison maintains the 

unrestricted right to edit or refuse all submitted 

material. All advertisements are subject to approval by 

the publisher. The production of Hometown Madison 

is funded by advertising. 

In this issue Molly May / Race for the Cure 6 

From Here To Broadway 18 

Business Administrators 24 

Dr. Beverly Fulcher, MD 29 

Bathed in Love 30 

Live Like You Were Dying 44 

Kids Q&A 46 

Putting the Joy in Caring for Seniors 52 

Gardens of Madison County 54 


Molly 

May 

announced as 

19TH ANNUAL 

Metro Jackson 

RACE 

FOR THE 

CURE 

Honorary Chair 

6 • March/April 2018

The Memphis-Midsouth Mississippi Affiliate of Susan G. 

Komen® recently announced that Molly May will serve as the 

2018 Race for the Cure Honorary Chair. At age 19, Molly May 

became the youngest person to undergo at double mastectomy 

in the state of Mississippi. Being a BRCA1 positive gene carrier 

as well, Molly has dedicated the last 3.5 years of her life to 

promoting early detection and being an advocate for the 

younger generations within the breast cancer community. 

As the honorary race chair, Molly will be a spokesperson in 

the fight to end breast cancer and encourage participation in 

the 19th annual Race for the Cure event scheduled for April 14 

at the Renaissance at Colony Park. 

“We are thrilled to have Molly serve as this year’s Race 

for the Cure honorary chair,” said Catherine Young, Senior 

Vice President of the Memphis-Midsouth Affiliate. “Molly is an 

inspiration to others, and her story with her focus on younger 

generations, creates awareness that this disease can strike at 

any age. Recent studies show that breast cancer is affecting 

younger and younger women and the statistic that 1 in 8 women 

will have breast cancer remains unchanged. Molly brings a new 

voice to the fight against breast cancer.” 

With the help and guidance of her mother Debra, also a 

15-year stage III breast cancer survivor, Molly has started her 

own non-profit organization “Bald is Beautiful” raising funds and 

donating hats to patients undergoing chemotherapy treatments. 

She will be publishing her first memoir entitled “My Crowning 

Achievement: Beating Cancer” in August 2018 in publication 

with the Dogwood Press of Jackson. 

Molly is a 23-year old cum laude honors graduate from 

Mississippi State University where she majored in communication 

and public relations. She was also a member of Zeta Tau Alpha 

Sorority, the Transfer Student Association, the MSU Relay for Life, 

and 6 honor societies. 

Molly represented her university as Miss Maroon and White 

2016 and Miss Mississippi State University 2017. 

Race for the Cure is scheduled for Saturday, April 14, 2018, 

at a new location, Renaissance at Colony Park, Ridgeland. The 

morning’s activities will begin at 6:30 a.m. with a special survivor 

breakfast. Race for the Cure will include the Kids One Mile Fun 

Run/Walk, an optional timed 5K and timed 10K. The event will 

feature the Kids for the Cure activities tent, the ever-popular Team 

Tailgate area and sponsor tents. The “Pink It Up” contest will 

recognize the best “Pinked Up” person. Other contests include 

best-decorated team tailgate and best t-shirt design. Put on your 

pink tutu, form a team, and race to help end breast cancer. 

The Central Mississippi Steel Magnolias Affiliate of Susan G. 

Komen® recently joined forces with the Memphis Komen affiliate 

to create Susan G. Komen Memphis-Midsouth Mississippi. This 

formation allows the affiliate to expand the fight to end breast 

cancer by serving the State of Mississippi and 14 counties in 

Tennessee. Since 1999, Metro Jackson Race for the Cure has 

provided over $3.25 million in direct grants to local health 

providers in the 59-county service area in Mississippi and over 

$800,000 to breast cancer research. 

The grants from Komen Jackson Race for the Cure provide 

the funds for life-important screenings, mammograms, diagnostics 

and treatment. One hundred percent of Metro Jackson Race for 

the Cure net event proceeds goes toward breast health 

services with 75 percent staying here in our community for local 

breast health care programs. The remaining 25 percent goes 

toward breast cancer research. No one else does what we do 

for women and men here at home. 

For more information about Metro Jackson Race for the Cure, to become a sponsor or register for the event, 

call 601.932.3999 or visit komenmemphisms.org. 




The Madison County Business League & Foundation 

2018 

LEAGUE LEGISLATURE 

LUNCHEON 

FEBRUARY 21, 2018 OLD CAPITOL INN 

11:30 am – 1:00 pm 

Jackson, Mississippi 

RESERVED SEATING ONLY 

RSVP Deadline 

Friday, February 16, 2018 

collins.jan01@gmail.com 





Serving 

OUR 

Why did you decide to be a policeman? 

Since I was a child, all I can remember is 

wanting to be a police officer. I’ve always 

felt it was my calling and never imagined 

doing anything else. When I was young, 

my father spent some time with the 

Madison County Sheriff’s Office and 

I can remember him letting me sit in his 

patrol car and I couldn’t get enough of it. 

How long have you been with the Ridgeland 

Police Department? 

I have been with the Ridgeland Police 

Department for a little over a year now. 

Tell us about your family. 

My mother has been a teacher for 22 years 

and my father is the owner of Momentum 

Events, and serves as an agent for Christian 

speakers and artists, as well as helps 

ministries with development needs. I also 

have an older brother who is currently 

getting his degree in computer science. 

My family was probably more excited than 

I was when they found out I got hired as 

an officer and they’ve always shown their 

support in my pursuit of achieving that 

goal. They’ve always been there for me 

when I needed them most and have gotten 

me through a lot of tough times. 

What is the toughest thing you have 

experienced in your job? 

Probably the toughest thing for me is in 

situations where you just feel helpless. 

When someone loses a family member or a 

loved one gets hurt and you want so bad to 

just make everything ok but you know you 

can’t. I truly care about the people in my 

community and it’s tough for me to see 

people go through those situations. 

Share some things you enjoy doing in your 

spare time. 

I enjoy the shooting range. I play the guitar, 

which is a good way to unwind and relax 

from a long shift. I also hope to get back 

into flying again soon so I can get my 

private pilot’s license. 

OFFICER 

Michael Hutton 

RIDGELAND POLICE 

DEPARTMENT 

What are three things on your bucket list? 

To get my private pilot’s license, learn a 

new language, and to visit another country. 

Who is someone you admire and why? 

I’d definitely have to say my dad. He has 

always been a great example of how to act 

and treat others. He has taught me so 

much in life and has always known the 

right thing to say and the right way to 

handle a situation. If I failed, he pushed 

me to get up and keep going and never stop 

until I’ve achieved everything I wanted. 

I’ll never be able to repay my dad for all the 

things he’s given me and taught me and if 

there is anyone in this world to thank for 

who I am today, it’s him. 

Where do you see yourself ten years from now? 

I’ll certainly still be in law enforcement. 

Really, my main goal has been to become a 

police officer. Since I’ve achieved that, I’m 

still working on finding a new goal in my 

career that I feel I will really enjoy. 

If you could give one piece of advice to a young 

person, what would it be? 

Be your own person and never follow the 

crowd. I believe that everyone one is here 

on this earth for a reason and is here to 

achieve something with their life. It doesn’t 

matter what other people think or what 

popular people are doing. You have to do 

what makes you happy. Be an individual 

that sticks out and is looked up to. You 

never know who’s watching and is 

following your example. Strive every day to 

achieve your dreams no matter what they 

are because the only thing that is going to 

keep you from your goals is you. If you want 

it bad enough, then no one can stop you. 

What is a favorite childhood memory? 

Probably the vacations with my family. 

Every year we would go to Branson, 

Missouri, for about a week. We’d fish and 

parasail and jump off these big cliffs into 

the water. After, we would go to the Hard 

Rock Diner, which absolutely has the best 

milkshakes in the world. Then we’d see a 

magic show or play mini golf. 

What is the biggest mistake you think young 

people make today? 

I think a lot of kids are too quick to fall 

into peer pressure and don’t realize the 

effect it can have on their lives. There’ve 

been multiple times where I’ve dealt with 

groups of younger people and they will be 

rude and disrespectful. Then later on 

you’ll see one of them without the other 

kids around and they’re a completely 

different person. They are polite and 

respectful and they will actually sit and 

talk with you a while like they’ve known 

you forever. 

What is your favorite thing about the 

City of Ridgeland? 

Its overwhelming support for law 

enforcement. Since I started with RPD, 

I’ve always been shown support by 

members of the community. 



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ServingOUR 

County 

How did your career begin in law enforcement? 

I started my career at the Madison 

Police Department in 1996. I enjoyed 

working at Madison PD, and I thank 

Chief Gene Waldrop for giving me the 

opportunity to start my career in law 

enforcement. In 2001, I was offered a 

job at the Madison County Sheriff’s 

Department. I had friends that worked 

there and they told me it was a great 

place to work. Working with the sheriff’s 

department gives you a larger area to 

cover, and there are some great people 

that work here. 

How long have you been with the Madison 

County Sheriff’s Office? 

16 years 


I have a wife and 13 year-old daughter. 

What is the toughest thing you have 

experienced in your job? 

When I was on the SWAT Team, we 

had a call out in the north part of the 

county where three of our SWAT Team 

members had been shot. 


spare time. 

Spending time with my family, watching 

my daughter run track, and watching 

college football. 


Finish my career with the Madison 

County Sheriff’s Department, go to 

Alaska, and see my daughter graduate 

college. 

Where do you see yourself ten years from now? 

Retired and spending time with my 

family. 

If you could give one piece of advice to a young 

person, what would it be? 

Treat everyone with respect and stay 

away from drugs. 

NARCOTICS 

Trey Curtis 

MADISON COUNTY 

SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT 


Eddie Belvedresi—retired chief deputy 

with the Madison County S.O. Chief 

Belvedresi gave me the opportunity to 

work at the best sheriff’s department in 

the state of Mississippi. He was always 

someone you could talk to during good 

times and bad. If you messed up, he 

would chew you out, then would ask 

you to go to lunch. 

What is a favorite childhood memory? 

Graduating high school and 

then going into the United States 

Marine Corp. 

What is the biggest mistake you think young 

people make today? 

Trusting their friends, experimenting 

with drugs, and not listening to their 

parents. 

What is your favorite thing about the 

City of Madison? 

It is a great city to raise a family. 


Katie Ladner 


FROM HERE TO BROADWAY 

Dani Edmonson 

From being a Madison School District Jaguar to 

becoming a New York City jetsetter, 26 year-old 

Katie Ladner spent her adolescent years attending 

Madison Avenue Elementary, Madison Middle, 

Rosa Scott, and finally Madison Central High 

School. “My performance journey began when 

I was five years old at First Baptist Church in 

Jackson, Mississippi, where I had my first solo in 

front of a 3,000-plus crowd,” she recalls. “I sang 

‘Happy Birthday Jesus!’ I was pretty young, so 

I think I was just excited to sing then.” Her acting 

bug hit almost immediately thereafter when she 

was cast as an orphan boy in a production of 

Oliver at the Cultural Center in Madison. “I got 

to sing the solo ‘Food, Glorious Food.’ It was 

amazing.” 

Ladner’s extracurricular school activities 

included choir, Madrigal Singers, Reveille Show 

Choir, band, and [various] school musicals. Her 

Madison Central High School theatre teacher, 

Leigha Nix, now in her 18th year of teaching, said 

there was no question that Ladner had the talent 

to go professional. “It was obvious from day one 

that Katie could actually make it to Broadway. 

She was always natural at playing any and every 

part. She was great at dialects and creating her 

own hilarious characters!” Nix also said Ladner’s 

commitment to excellence was profound. “Katie 

was a great student and definitely an overachiever. 

It didn’t matter if it was a classroom performance 

or a stage performance . . . she gave 110%! She 

was always supportive of everyone else in the cast 

because she wanted to make each show the best.” 

New York is a logistical leap from Mississippi, 

but Ladner does manage to make it home when 

she can. “I try to come home at least once a year, 

job depending,” she said. “I try to stay connected 

by phone calls and keeping up on social media. 

Thank goodness for technology this day and age!” 

Her childhood best friend from Madison, Shannon 

Evans, said she and Katie talk weekly. “Katie is still 

the same Katie I have always known and loved!” 

Evans said. “I think since she has been in New 

York, her personality has been able to shine 

through even more; she just doesn’t talk 

as Southern!” 

Both attended First Baptist Church of Jackson, 

where their friendship began, but the bond grew 

deeper since both girls attended Madison, 


Mississippi, schools together. “So Katie 

and I have known each other since we 

were little, but I would say we became 

very close during our middle and high 

school years,” she said. “We were in 

youth group and youth choir together 

and went on mission trips with the 

church. Through the years we began 

hanging out together outside of church 

and school.” College separated them 

physically, but not spiritually. “We would 

stay in touch through phone calls and 

text and hang out whenever she came 

back to town,” she said. One of her 

fondest memories is when she got to 

witness Katie perform. “I remember 

traveling with her parents to see her 

perform at Belmont when she was in 

Grease. She was doing what she loved!” 

When it came time for Evans to 

marry, she naturally wanted Katie in 

attendance. “I asked Katie to be a 

bridesmaid in my wedding,” Evans began. 

“Unfortunately, due to scheduling with 

a show that she was working on, she 

was not going to be able to make it to 

the wedding. I understood, but I hated 

she wouldn’t be there or get to stand 

by my side.” But a true friend will not let 

you down. “At the rehearsal dinner, the 

night before the wedding, my mom 

mentioned that Katie had sent me 

something and pointed at the TV 

screen. Katie had a made a video of 

herself singing a collaboration of songs 

including, You’ve Got a Friend by James 

Taylor, and You’ve Got a Friend in Me by 

Randy Newman.” 

Evans said Ladner’s friendship is a 

regular topic of discussion amongst 

friends. “I feel like it brings people of the 

community together. Whenever I get 

together with old high school friends 

that are still in the area, they always ask 

about her.” 

Ladner’s list of accomplishments 

include having parts in the Broadway 

version of Wicked and Sunset Boulevard, 

the Musical. She has also had several 

theatre roles including Disney’s Freaky 

Friday, Heathers the Musical, Hairspray, 

and Footloose. One appearance was 

for a reading of “Fat Camp,” a topic 

Ladner has personally experienced and 

overcome with benefits. 

“It took me a while to be somewhat 

confident in who I am not only in my 

looks but also as a woman, and I still 

struggle with it sometimes,” she said. 

But a comment from a friend became 

an “ah-ha” moment for her. “That 

moment clicked in my head of when 

I was told ‘people just want to see you 

on stage; there’s no other you.’” For 

the longest time Ladner could find few 

women who “looked like her,” which 

was disappointing. “I have really been 

blessed and given the opportunities to 

play majority roles that actually don’t 

have anything to do with what I look 

like. I can just be a funny, goofy girl that 

sings and tries to dance! And there’s 

something liberating about that. It 

makes my heart grow 10 sizes when I 

hear feedback from audience members 

saying ‘thank you for being you.’” 

Despite the thrill of live performances, 

Ladner admits she gets homesick. 

“I think what I find most challenging 

is being away from my family and 

friends and missing things like weddings 

and funerals,” she said. “If I am 

lucky, I’m employed. And more 

oftentimes than not, the performance 

schedule is tight and doesn’t allow for 

much wiggle room.” 

What lies ahead for the locally grown 

celebrity? “Well, right now I am in the 

Broadway company of Wicked, and I 

hope I can stick around there for a bit 

just to gather myself,” she said. “My 

immediate and long-term goals are just 

to enjoy the ride, truthfully. As actors, 

we spend so much time thinking 

about ‘What’s next’ and where the next 

paycheck is gonna come from that we 

forget to be in the moment and enjoy 

the experiences. That’s something I am 

trying to get better at!” 

So maybe romance might be what 

is next for Ladner. “Oh sweet heavens,” 

she begins. “The only romance I 

currently have are the longing gazes 

I give every person I see on the street 

with a Diet Coke. (I’m trying to quit. 

Pray for me!)” And as good Southerners, 

we shall. n 




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HOMETOWN SALUTE 

Business 

Administrators 

The business world is synonymous 

with pressurized schedules, critical time 

management, and juggling multiple 

relationships. The load can become 

overwhelming, and would, if not 

for the incalculable aid of the 

administrative assistant. 

They’re usually equipped with 

an extra set of senses to see problems 

before they occur, hear good and bad 

news before it affects the administration, 

and blankets possible problems 

with kindness and attention. 

Hometown Madison is featuring 

six of these talented administrative 

assistants–all nominated by our readers. 

Take note of how their gifts benefit 

and enhance the business world 

and diffuse so much of the stress. 

Administrative 

Professionals Day 

is April 25th 

Beth Harkins 

Merit Health Madison 

How long have you been at your current position? 

4 years 

What is your favorite thing about your job? 

I enjoy assisting all employees, medical staff, and board members 

– we are a great team! I also enjoy coordinating Senior Circle, 

our community group for senior citizens. Some other aspects of 

my job that I like are assisting with charitable fundraising events, 

helping retain our hospital patient satisfaction scores and being 

a resource for the national hospital accreditation organization, 

Joint Commission. 

Is there something that stands out as a special memory? 

The opening of the new hospital, Merit Health Madison, 

the ribbon cutting of the Merit Health Madison Medical Office 

Building and the launch of the Senior Circle Program. 

What is the best piece of advice you’ve been given? 

Listen and learn. 


Ellen Aregood 

Madison County Schools 


25 years. I started in 1993 as a secretary in the office 

of Madison Avenue Elementary, and moved to 

Central Office in 1996 as the administrative assistant 

to the superintendent. 


The fact that I get to interact with people on a daily basis - 

not only in the office, but within the communities 

that our district serves. 


Several years ago at a staff meeting with district administrators 

prior to the start of school, I was introduced as “the lady 

with a wealth of institutional knowledge.” I considered this 

a compliment, and was pretty pleased until I realized that 

it was just a graceful way of saying that I was old! 


To paraphrase a favorite quote of my boss, 

“Don’t just make a day, make a difference.” 

Martha Nelson 

Michael Baker International, Inc. 

How long have you been in your current position? 

41 years September 2017. Our office was founded in Mississippi 

in 1945 as the Southern Division of Michael Baker Jr., Inc. 

We are the largest engineering firm in Mississippi; however, 

we cannot be recognized as such since we are incorporated 

in the State of Pennsylvania. 


The many wonderful friends I have made around the globe; 

the employees – the clients – and the vendor community. 


All the memories are special and clearly outstanding in my mind. 

You could call me the “company historian” – but most outstanding 

is the Alaska Pipeline Project won by my hiring manager and 

completed in our Mississippi office. 


I can honestly say that I was never given any advice. 

With my strong will to succeed and work ethic, I started out 

from the beginning learning quickly what to do. And I knew 

where to go for assistance when I needed it. 


Ouida Shotts 

KeyTrust Properties 


I’ve been with KeyTrust Properties for 4 years in March. 

I’ve been an office manager in the real estate field 

for thirteen years. 


Doing what you love and enjoying it. I love my job. 


Some people do not understand the loss of a pet but it is truly 

painful. When my Yorkie, Chloe, passed away three years ago, 

my KeyTrust Properties family was so compassionate 

and there for me. Chloe was with me for 13 1/2 years. 


My parents instilled in me at an early age, be kind, thankful, 

and make a difference in someone’s day. 

Sarah Willis 

Canton Academy 


I have worked at Canton Academy for the past 13 years 

and I have been in the role as the head administrative assistant 

for the last 9 years. 


My favorite thing about the job is that every day is different! 

I love it because it keeps me on my toes. 


So after pondering that one special moment question– 

I have really tried to narrow it down. But for me, I think my 

most special moments happen in the quiet of the day–a letter in 

the mail or my inbox thanking me for what I do; a simple hug or 

smile from a parent or student after just listening to their concerns; 

flowers dropped by the office, Christmas goodies, and all those 

yummy treats brought by the office throughout the year. I love 

and thank everyone for the great and wonderful special moments. 


A wise old man once told me as he was leading our school, 

“Always have a back up plan for a back up plan.” 


Tyler Armstrong 

MS Vein Institute 


I have been in my current job since 2015. Before this 

I worked at the Greater Jackson Chamber of Commerce 

for 14 years as the COO. 


My favorite thing about working at the MS Vein Institute 

are all the wonderful people we get to meet. 

Our patients become good friends. 


The people that work here are definitely a family. Dr. Michael 

Manning and his wife Scarlette go above and beyond to make us 

feel important and appreciated and are always having fun 

get-togethers. MS Vein is celebrating its tenth anniversary 

and the Mannings are taking the staff on a cruise. They go 

the extra mile and that is why people enjoy working here. 


The front desk is always the most important part of an office, 

because it sets the experience. The customer/patient is extremely 

important and should be treated kindly. Take the time to smile and 

greet each person. You never know you may brighten someone’s day. 

Shay Earnhart 

Holmes Community College 

Ridgeland Campus 


Since January of 2016. 


My favorite thing about my job is those I work with. 


Not necessarily a memory but more of a homecoming. 

I grew up in Holmes County and in the summer of 1983 

I attended HCC in Goodman enrolled in the cosmetology 

department. It was a great experience. I married a preacher 

and we moved around from 1987 until finally coming home 

seven years ago. It has been awesome to see how many 

Holmes County friends are working on the Holmes and 

Ridgeland campus. Holmes County is dear to my heart and the 

people I grew up with. There truly is no place like Holmes! 


Love God, love people and learn something new every day! 



A Closer Look 

Melanie McMillan 

Dr. Beverly Fulcher, MD 

I really enjoy my job, 

and every day I go to 

work looking forward to 

helping my patients. 

Beverly Fulcher, MD, has been with Mississippi Ear Nose and Throat 

Surgical Associates since December 2017. She is the only female 

general otolaryngologist in private practice in the state of Mississippi. 

Dr. Fulcher grew up in Hattiesburg with her parents, who were both 

educators, and her older brother and sister. As a student at Oak Grove 

High School, Dr. Fulcher gravitated to science and math, and it was then 

that she knew she wanted to pursue a career in medicine. 

She went on to the University of Southern Mississippi, where she was 

graduated summa cum laude with a degree in chemistry. She completed 

medical school at the University of Mississippi School of Medicine in 1998 

and her residency training in otolaryngology in 1998. Her older sister was 

in medical school at the same time as is now a practicing anesthesiologist. 

“There was a lot of studying in medical school but I loved it,” says 

Dr. Fulcher. “I chose to specialize in otolaryngology because of the wide 

variety of patients that we treat, from adults with sinus issues, to children 

who need to have their tonsils out.” 

While in medical school, Dr. Fulcher was a member of the American 

Medical Association, Christian Medical Students, and Alpha Omega 

Alpha Medical Honor Society. During residency, she published research 

papers on vestibular physiology and paranasal sinus disease. Dr. Fulcher 

completed her board certification with the American Board of 

Otolaryngology in 2004, and has updated her certification every year 

to meet the board’s professional standards of training and knowledge 

in otolaryngology—head and neck surgery. 

Giving back to the community is important to Dr. Fulcher. She recently 

helped start a mentoring group and Bible study at her church for women 

at various stages in their medical careers and is a sustainer in the Junior 

League of Jackson. While an active member of the Junior League, she 

helped with the ACT Prep workshop for area high school students, 

teaching the science section for several years. She also volunteered at 

the Ronald McDonald House at UMMC and is active in neighborhood 

organizations. 

Dr. Fulcher and her husband have three children, ages 11, 10, and 7. 

She enjoys cooking and sewing, and she and her family are avid 

fishermen. 

Interacting with patients and seeing their health improve after surgery 

is very rewarding to Dr. Fulcher. “I enjoy getting to know patients 

and their families. I know how it feels to have a child who is having 

surgery, so I have experienced both sides, as a parent and a surgeon. 

I really enjoy my job, and every day I go to work looking forward to 

helping my patients.” n 




Annual 

Award Meeting 

January 25, 2018 



34 • March/April 2018 

When you need a perfect day, 

call Mangia Bene.

How to Identify 

Healthy & Unhealthy 

Relationships 

Ruth Whitley, 

Crossroads Counseling 

When you think of all the healthy relationships in 

your life, what examples do you think of? Is it your best 

friend that you’ve had since kindergarten? Is it your 

relationship with your family, or is it that person you’ve 

been dating for a few years? What qualities are present 

in those relationships? How do you make is last? What 

do you think draws you to these particular people? Is 

it interest-based–like your book club, running clubs, 

workout groups, or fellow golfers? If you think on it, 

you will be able to identify several of the same 

characteristics in all of these relationships. 

According to research by Hall Health Center, two 

people develop a connection based on the following 

traits: cooperation, trust, honesty, safety, support, 

accountability, and fairness. 

All healthy relationships should be based on 

the aforementioned healthy building blocks. When 

beginning a new relationship, ask yourself this: Do you 

feel safe, happy, content, relaxed, able to be yourself, 

and can you trust this person? If you already have a 

relationship, you can ask yourself the same question, 

examine the answers, and modify the relationship to 

where both parties reach a mutual goal. 

Friendships and relationships often begin in the 

most innocent of ways, especially when we are young. 

I remember as a teen hearing a sermon on friendship. 

He stated that a person who has five true friends in 

their lifetime is a very fortunate person. At the time, 

surrounded by my group of friends, I felt very fortunate. 

He went on to discuss all of the positive healthy 

qualities that those friendships should have, loyalty 

and trust being among the top five. As we age, we 

hopefully realize that the quality of our friendships/ 

relationships are more important than the quantity. 

It is better to have one positive friendship/relationship 

than many negative ones. 

As we move from friendships into spousal 

relationships, the need to identify healthy qualities in 

a person becomes more important. It’s not always 

about who you have the most fun with. You need to 

be able to connect with someone on spiritual and 

emotional level. Healthy romantic relationships allow 

both people to feel supported and connected while 

maintaining their individuality. Each person should 

have a strong sense of self-worth that is not dependent 

on the status of their relationship. Respecting one 

another’s likes and dislikes, but agreeing to find 

common ground on disagreements with no fear of 

violence or retribution, is key in a nurturing and 

supportive relationship. 

How do we identify when we are in an unhealthy 

relationship? Abuse, in general, means to mistreat, 

hurt, or injure. While abusive acts can be carried out 

by men and women, most victims of abuse are women. 

Most abusive relationships don’t necessarily begin with 

violent acts, but instead with a slow assertion of control 

and alienation from friends and family. One example 

would be, “He screams at me from the background 

while I am on the phone with a friend inviting us to 

dinner.” Eventually this friend will quit calling fearing 

they are making things worse. The more isolated she 

becomes the more control he can assert. She begins 

to feel she has no where to turn, she may even begin 

to feel embarrassed to tell anyone of her situation 

fearing no one will believe her because, to the public, 

he will often appear successful and charming. 

There are many forms of abuse: 

Verbal abuse use words or the tone of words to 

control and hurt another person. Verbal abuse in a 

marriage destroys intimacy and respect. Some examples 

include; intimidating with threats, accusations, 

degrading with private or public put-downs, confuse 

with mind games or twisting what is said. In scripture 

we find an example of verbal abuse from Psalm 10:7 

“His mouth is full of curses and lies and threats: 

trouble and evil are under his tongue.” 

Emotional abuse can be passive or aggressive. 

For example: withholding emotional support, 

withholding important information, not allowing 

access to money or finances, giving her an allowance, 

making her feel guilty about the children, or threatens 

to take the children away. 

Physical abuse can include: pushing/shoving, 

confining/trapping in a room by standing in the 

doorway, scratching, pinching, spitting, hitting walls, 

breaking objects, harming a pet or child, pulling hair, etc. 

Sexual abuse happens in both married and 

unmarried couples. Women often experience sexual 

abuse without realizing it. Some examples include: 

adultery, forced sexual acts, withholding romance 

and intimacy, sexually degrading remarks, and 

guilt-tripping into sex. 

If you find yourself in an abusive relationship, 

get help immediately. Many areas offer domestic 

violence shelters. One way to access help is through 

local law enforcement. Most importantly, tell someone 

and get the support you need in order to get to a 

safe place. 

In closing, keep in mind that all relationships 

experience conflict, but open communications is 

important, as are healthy boundaries. Seek professional 

intervention to assist you and your spouse in order to 

have the healthiest relationship possible. n 

_______________________ 

Ruth Whitley 

- Licensed Professional Counselor 

- Licensed Marriage and 

Family Therapist 



Susan Marquez 

BATHED IN LOVE 

Leisha Pickering 

has a tender heart 

and a desire to help others. 

Those two attributes are what fuels Musee, 

the largest wholesaler of bath bombs in the country. Pickering 

saw a need in Madison County for women, in particular, who 

needed work, but had a hard time finding it. “There is a 

whole population of women who find it difficult to get a job,” 

explains Pickering. “They may be recently released from 

prison, have a disability, or perhaps they don’t have a good 

education. I knew that we had people in the county who 

wanted to work, so in 2011 I looked for a product we could 

teach people to make with great excellence that we could 

market. It was kind of a backwards approach to business, in a 

way, but one that worked well for us.” 

Pickering thought about the things she enjoys in life. 

“I wanted a cool 

product, something we 

could sell at the Livingston 

Farmers Market, which was 

just getting up and running at that 

time. I have always enjoyed taking long baths, and 

I had a background as a pastry chef. I had the idea of making 

premium scented bath bombs.” She didn’t see the fact that 

she had no idea how to make them as an obstacle. Nor was 

she deterred by the fact that she didn’t know how to start a 

business. “I called on my friend Adam Pierce, who has a good 

business head on him. We started the business in my kitchen, 

experimenting with essential and natural oils, sugars, and 

salts and such in a mixer. Adam helped me get the business 

off the ground.” 

The name Musee has the root word “Muse” which is a 

water nymph, according to Pickering. “They lived in water and 

celebrated life with scents and lyrics. Musee (pronounced 

moo-see) has always been my word for things that make 

me happy.” 


Pickering knew if she could teach a few people to make the 

bath bombs, she could sell them and hire more people. She started 

off selling them at the Livingston Farmers Market and the bombs 

were a huge hit. Each bomb is named after a song. “I love music, 

so depending on what the ingredients are in each scent, I give it a 

name based on a favorite song.” The bombs have names like 

“Amazing Grace,” “Don’t Worry, Be Happy,” “Tupelo Honey” 

and “Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds.” 

manufacturing facility,” says Pickering. But a perfect spot was 

sitting empty in Canton. The old Canton Sound Stage, originally 

built to film the movie A Time to Kill, was available for purchase by 

the Madison County Economic and Community Development 

Authority. “It fits our needs perfectly.” 

Inside each bomb is a special surprise. “We put a little trinket 

inside each bath bomb to reinforce that the person using it is special 

and loved.” Pickering says the bath bombs soften and moisturize 

the skin as well as provide aromatherapy benefits to help the user 

relax. “Bath bombs are one of those little luxuries in life. Women 

spend their lives taking care of others, so this is a nice way for them 

to relax and take care of themselves.” Through the process of 

selling the bath bombs, however, Pickering has learned that many 

men enjoy a soak with a scented bath bomb, and kids love them as 

well. “We now have a kids’ line of bath bombs!” 

When the farmers market ended the first year, Pickering says 

the company took a leap of faith and went to gift markets to see 

if anyone had interest in selling them in stores. The bath bombs 

were very well received. So much so that now Musee products can 

be found in over 3,500 shops nationwide. As the company has 

expanded, new space was needed. “We looked into building a 


Today Musee has fifty full-time employees and will add more 

as product lines expand. “We are adding new products to our line, 

including beautiful soy candles and cold-pressed bath soaps. We 

try to think out of the box and look for ways to help people and 

treat them with dignity,” asserts Pickering. 

“It’s the difference between minimum wage and paying a fair 

wage. Everyone at Musee has a very important role. We can’t do 

what we do without each person doing their specific job. These 

women work in a loving environment and that helps create more 

stability in their lives. It makes them flourish as individuals. 

I believe that work creates dignity, and that working with our 

hands helps care for our soul. I am passionate about the hands that 

make our products,” she added. 

Pickering has seen the difference it makes in the lives of each 

individual. “Some have gotten their children back. Others have 

been able to get a dependable vehicle, which gives them more 

freedom. And others have bought a home for the first time ever.” 

The company has grown with no marketing or advertising. 

“It’s been a slow, organic growth through word-of-mouth and 

trips to market. A lot of people have walked alongside me to help 

it grow.” And the company will continue to grow as it rolls out 

even more product lines down the road. “All of our products will 

always be handmade. Our mission is to expand our line and hire 

more people.” 


New Summit 

Draw Down 

Fundraiser 

February 23 

MS Children’s Museum 



CA.AllSportsAward2017.4x5_Layout 1 8/28/17 4:55 PM Page 1 

FREE EDUCATIONAL SEMINAR 

UNRAVELING 

Alzheimer’s and Dementia 

JOIN US FOR A FREE EDUCATIONAL SEMINAR 

THURSDAY, MARCH 29 TH 

at 2:30pm 

RICH PAST. PROMISING FUTURE. 

2016-2017 All Sports Award Winner 

www.CantonAcademy.org 

ENJOY LIGHT REFRESHMENTS 

IN THE COMMONS’ ACTIVITY ROOM 

Professor and neurological expert, Dr. Tom Mosley will share 

the latest advances in Alzheimer’s and dementia research 

happening now at the University Of Mississippi Medical 

Center’s MIND Center—a leader in the search to crack the 

code of Alzheimer’s disease. Also, take a virtual look at the new 

Gertrude C. Ford MIND Research Center in UMMC’s 

state-of-the-art Translational Research Center. 

RSVP by Monday, March 26th: 

(601) 856-0123 

or email village@stdom.com 

CONTINUING 

LIFE CARE 

Independent • Assisted 

Memory • Skilled 

Proudly 

CARF-CCAC 

Accredited 

www.StCatherinesVillage.com 



Live like you 

were dying... 



You know–as in the song? 

I mean, why would anyone in their right mind want 

to go “2.7 seconds on a bull named Fumanchu?” Doesn’t 

Tim McGraw know you can get hurt doing that kind 

of stuff? 

It makes me wonder, however, does anyone truly live 

their life like they’re dying? Or are they busy running 

carpools and businesses and doing laundry and rushing 

to get home before Jeopardy comes on? Skydiving and 

rocky-mountain climbing is the stuff songs are made 

of—not real life. 

Or aren’t they? 

We’ve heard it a jillion times. Life is short. I’ve 

become more aware of it lately as the AARP mailers 

continue to litter my mailbox and email. I need an 

“unsubscribe” button for those things. They give me 

anxiety. 

I recently read an article that revealed the top five 

regrets people make on their deathbed. (Yep. Happy 

New Year!) But it did give me pause to evaluate my own 

current state of affairs. 

The top regrets were as follows: 

1. I wish I’d had the courage to live a life true to 

myself, not the life others expected of me. 

2. I wish I didn’t work so hard. 

3. I wish I’d had the courage to express my feelings. 

4. I wish I had stayed in touch with my friends. 

5. I wish I had let myself be happier. 

I can relate to some of these more than others— 

particularly the one about letting myself be happier. 

And it’s not because my life lacks happiness, at all. It’s 

more because of my irrational fear of losing what makes 

me happy. I live in fear of losing what I love. Maybe 

that’s just a mom thing. I’ll google it. 

It brings me back to the question, though, what would 

I do differently if there was no tomorrow? How would I 

live my life? What changes would we make in our daily 

lives if we truly grasped the fact that we might not get 

another day? 

I suspect we would be a lot quicker to forgive–if for 

no other reason than in order to be forgiven. 

Maybe we would be more intentional about 

considering the needs of others around us. 

In my case, I would talk less and listen more. I would 

say “I love you” even more often and prioritize people 

over things and duties. 

And what’s sobering in the case of those polled about 

regrets is that these people came to realize only at the 

end of their lives that they should have done things 

differently. 

So what if we found at least one way to address each 

of those five points mentioned earlier and did them 

today? To the answers above, in order, I propose: 

1. When you’re true to yourself you’re also true to 

other people. Live your truth. And learn to say no. 

It’s all about personal boundaries and the more you do 

it, the easier it becomes. 

2. Don’t work so hard making a living that you 

forget to make a life. You will never feel truly satisfied 

by labor until you are satisfied by life. So make sure 

they’re in the right order. 

3. Many people suppress their feelings in order to 

keep peace with others. Don’t do that. Learn to 

communicate with clarity, empathy, and compassion. 

Express yourself in the most positive manner you can. 

But be polite–good or bad. 

4. With technology and social media there’s 

absolutely no reason in the universe not to be connected 

with friends. And if you’re able, getting together faceto 

-face is even better. Make it an event. Schedule it. 

Nothing is better for the soul than true friendship and 

authentic positive and personal connection. 

5. Happiness isn’t an inborn temperament. 

It’s more of an achievement—where effort is required. 

Be mindful of your thoughts and choose them wisely. 

Look for the positive in all your experiences and 

cultivate optimism and gratitude. 

But above all else, be kind to yourself. While we can’t 

go back and re-create our beginnings–anyone can start 

today and make a new ending. Love, accept, forgive, 

and be good to yourself. We are all a work in progress– 

and we’ll get there a little at a time. 

Which brings me back to Tim McGraw. He goes on 

to say, “(Live) like tomorrow was a gift. And you’ve got 

eternity to think about. What would you do with it? 

What could you do with it? What did I do with it? 

What would I do with it?” 

Well, you know the rest of the song . . . . 

This year, let’s all live to be happy—not with regrets, 

but with soaring and generous love in our hearts! After 

all, the tragedy of life is not death, but what we let die 

inside of us while we’re living. 

“Someday I hope you get the chance to live like you 

were dying.” 

Live Like You Were Dying–written by Tim Nichols and Craig Wiseman (2004) 


If you 

could 

be 

anyone 

in the 

world 

for a 

day, 

who 

would 

it be 

and 

why? 

Anna Nickles 

Wonder Woman, so I can save 

people from bad things. 

Connor Green 

Stephen Curry, so I can be 

a good basketball player and 

play on a winning team. 

Cade Shaw 

Harry Potter, just because it 

would be a lot of fun. 

Audrey Justice 

Hermione, because she 

has magic and can go 

anywhere she wants. 

Ava Blake Dye 

Jana Kramer, 

so I can act and sing. 

Will Shumake 

Cristiano Ronaldo. He has 

great talent and I’d want 

to play on his team. 


Quinn Hamon 

Misty Copeland. 

She’s a really good dancer. 

Roman Ren 

Percy Jackson, because 

he lives in a big world. 

Rachel Stayer 

I would be a gymnast because 

I like cheering and tumbling. 

Morgan Jones 

I would be my mom 

so I wouldn’t have to 

do chores for a day. 

Weston Rogers 

My mom because she has 

to work hard and I appreciate 

what she does. 

Whitney Davis 

Mom, because she’s my 

everyday superhero. 

Ansley Dye 

Taylor Swift, so I can 

go on tour. 

Case Thomas 

Julio Jones, because he’s 

really good at football. 

Isabell Becknum 

I don’t want to be 

anyone but myself. 



City of Ridgeland 

Chamber of Commerce 

BUSINESS 

AFTER HOURS 

February 15 

Renasant Bank 



Joy 

Putting the 

IN Caring 

FOR 

SENIORS 

Jennifer Joy Bird 

JoyCARE Inc. 

In today’s world with so many ideas on 

what it takes to live a longer and healthier 

life, could the act of a simple face-to-face 

conversation and companionship with 

another person possibly extend your years? 

According to recent studies, socializing 

can have a positive biological impact, as 

well as a positive psychological impact 

on a person’s health. 

When someone engages in meaningful 

and uplifting conversation, studies have 

shown a decrease in blood pressure, 

cholesterol levels, and heart rate. Another 

benefit is that companionship can lower 

feelings of isolation related depression. 

Yet another important benefit to strong 

relationships with others was documented 

in a recent Harvard School of Public Health 

study. It found that strong social connections 

can help preserve brain health throughout the 

aging process, and social isolation may be 

an important risk factor for cognitive decline 

and impairment in the geriatric population. 

Therefore, what we gather from medical 

studies is that companionship is beneficial 

to the physical, emotional, and cognitive 

health of the elderly. However, it is one 

thing to read about it in a study but quite a 

different thing to experience it, personally. 

At this point, I want to share some of 

my own personal experiences as an 

occupational therapist and provider of care 

through JoyCARE, Inc. 

First, let me start by sharing that 

JoyCARE, Inc. provides lifestyle enhancement 

services for senior adults. We strive to maintain 

the emotional and physical well-being of our 

clients and improve the quality of life of 

those we serve. JoyCARE, Inc. is unique 

because we offer the benefits of skilled 

professionals who provide the attention 

and services that maximize the independence 

and safety of our clients. 

JoyCARE, Inc. helps clients with life skills 

such as grooming, dressing, and feeding 

tasks. We also help promote an active 

lifestyle through encouraging gentle 


exercises, taking clients on walks, and 

involving them in activities that require 

movement. Another emphasis of JoyCARE, 

Inc. is to help improve mental alertness 

through playing games that stimulate 

thought processes and using activities to 

help increase attention, sequencing, 

problem solving, and memory. We also 

assist our clients with organization in their 

current living environment by helping 

de-clutter, removing fall hazards, organizing 

closets, and managing appointments. 

Although there are many important areas 

of focus that we address, the one area that 

has had the greatest impact on our clients 

is that of companionship. There is no app, 

no computer program, no substitute for 

genuine one on one, face-to-face interaction 

between people. It has been amazing to 

see the difference in the countenance and 

mood of our clients prior to a JoyCARE, Inc. 

visit as compared to their demeanor 

following a visit. 

Many times when we arrive, a person 

is alone, somewhat depressed, and even 

a bit anxious. After just a few minutes of 

meaningful face-to-face conversation, an 

encouraging pat on the back, a simple 

hug or just holding someone’s hand and 

listening to them talk, the transformation 

we see is something truly special and 

almost hard to define. This uninterrupted, 

undivided, uniquely personal attention 

given to another person is truly the best 

medicine for depression, feelings of 

isolation, and hopelessness. Not only does 

it quickly improve the mood of our clients, 

but also meaningful conversation is often 

recommended by many physicians to aid 

in decreasing the rate of cognitive decline. 

Why is this simple act of companionship 

so special and beneficial? Well, in our 

world of fast-paced, computer-dominated, 

and productivity-driven cultures we have 

found that sometimes personal attention 

and consideration of what the client needs 

are not always considered. An individualized 

and client-centered approach is the 

hallmark of JoyCARE, Inc. 

During an initial consultation, goals for 

the client are established. Next, a program 

of activities and interventions are developed 

to help the clients meet their goals, 

while having fun in the process. From 

teaching a senior adult how to use an iPad, 

to reminiscing about the past, to helping 

someone maintain his or her mobility to 

walk around their own home, JoyCARE, 

Inc. individualizes a program based on the 

needs of our clients. 

Although we are the ones hired to help 

our clients, without fail, our clients are also 

helping us and teaching us valuable life 

lessons and various skills. A “young” 

ninety-year-old client is teaching some of 

the JoyCARE, Inc. team to do embroidery. 

The opportunity to teach someone a new 

skill has given her purpose and increased 

self- esteem and, in return, we have some 

beautiful pillowcases! 

To hear laughter and see a smile lets us 

know we are doing our job. As stated in 

Proverbs 17:22, “A joyful heart is good 

medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the 

bones.” This verse is the theme for 

JoyCARE, Inc. n 

“A joyful heart is 

good medicine, 

but a crushed 

spirit dries up 

the bones.” 

Proverbs 17:22 

_______________________________________ 

If you feel like you or someone you know may 

benefit from the services of JoyCARE, Inc., 

please call Jennifer Joy Bird at 601-573-6344 

for a free initial consultation. 


Gardens 

——— of ——— 

Madison 

County 

2018 

Elizabeth Bennett 

If you love nature and have a green thumb, 

or even if you just love the beauty of flowers, 

then Gardens of Madison County is where 

you want to be between May 4-6. Gardens of 

Madison County is an annual celebration hosted 

by Madison-Ridgeland Academy where unique 

gardens and outdoor spaces throughout the 

Madison-Ridgeland area are showcased. 

The kickoff will be the evening of Friday 

May 4, which will be a Garden Party at Lost 

Rabbit Town Center and Marina followed by 

two days of tours featuring spectacular outdoor 

spaces and gardens, demonstrations by local 

businesses and chefs, as well as a Garden Market 

and Café, plus other events on the Madison- 

Ridgeland Academy campus. Some of the 

demonstrations include: butterfly garden, 

landscape planting, flower arranging, botanicals 

and container gardening. Some of the chef 

demonstrations include olive oil tasting and 

summertime salads, grilling with a purpose, 

summer entertaining and cookbook authors 

will present recipes in outdoor kitchen areas. 

According to Leslie Dixon, Director of 

Advancement for Madison-Ridgeland Academy, 

“the purpose of this event is for Madison- 

Ridgeland Academy to partner with our 

wonderful surrounding community and 

showcase all the beautiful unique outdoor 

spaces and gardens that are located here. 


Additionally, all proceeds from the Gardens of 

Madison County will support Madison-Ridgeland 

Academy’s mission of ‘Educating the Mind, Body, 

and Spirit’ of each child through the continued 

expansion of academic programs, increased 

investment in faculty and staff development, 

enhancement of campus facilities and upgraded 

technology school wide.” 

The Parents and Teachers Association, have 

been putting on Gardens of Madison County 

for 24 years. The Madison-Ridgeland community, 

which includes parents, students, faculty and 

alumni all collaborate each year to put on this 

special event. They work very hard and come 

together as a team to pull off this amazing event 

each year. 

People from all walks of life enjoy coming 

to Gardens of Madison County. “We have tour 

goers from all over the state and surrounding 

states such as Tennessee and Louisiana attend 

this tour. We see garden club groups, church 

groups and individuals of all ages who are all 

interested in gardening, outdoor spaces/ 

landscapes, demonstrations, tablescapes or 

the special events. There is truly something 

for everyone on this tour!” exclaims Dixon. 

This year, the tour will consist of beautiful 

gardens throughout Madison and Ridgeland. 

Locations include Bridgewater, Lost Rabbit, 

Lake Caroline, Pickenpaugh Pottery and 


Annandale. The tour will be Saturday, May 6 

from 9 am to 5 pm and Sunday, May 7 from 

12-5 pm. Advance tour tickets are $12 and 

weekend tickets are $15. For more information, 

visit www.mragardens.com. 

Leslie Dixon is on staff at Madison- 

Ridgeland Academy and is also a chairman 

for the event. “Our role is to lead a steering 

committee of more than 40 MRA volunteers 

through planning and implementing this three 

day event. While doing so, we take joy in creating 

excitement around our community so they will 

take part in our wonderful fundraising event,” 

said Dixon. “The passion we have in helping 

shape these little lives is what drives the tireless 

effort that we have been blessed to have from 

our parents, volunteers and support staff at 

MRA. Experiencing the talents of everyone 

involved to pull off such a wonderful weekend 

for the benefit of our children is truly rewarding.” 

This year’s event is different from previous 

years in a plethora of ways. The Gardens Market 

will take place in a different location and will 

also include many pre-paid special events on 

campus. The special events will include Prickly 

Hippie’s guide to creating a fairy garden with a 

visit from Tinker Bell, a workshop for building 

a garden out of Legos by “Bricks for Kids” with 


Lacey Fondren. Also, kids will have the 

opportunity to create a 3D canvas painting 

with the instruction of Sarah Kathryn Dossett 

Bridgers. Bridgers is an artist from Oxford, 

Mississippi and a Madison-Ridgeland Academy 

alumna. There will be something for everyone 

both young and old! 

The theme of the Gardens of Madison 

County has a unique and delightful twist this 

year. Dixon said, “The tour this year has that old 

Madison charm with scenic waterfront views 

that adds a nostalgic feel. The tour will also take 

visitors through the new developments of our 

community. The modern farmhouse vibe of the 

Garden Party as well as the Market and Café, 

set up alongside the Ross Barnett Reservoir at 

Lost Rabbit will add to the experience.” 

Leslie Dixon, along with the other chairmen 

of this event, hope that they can showcase the 

natural beauty of the gardens in their community 

and that it will serve as a beautiful backdrop for 

this special fundraiser. They hope the experience 

will leave visitors inspired and rejuvenated. 

Don’t miss this exciting event in the great 

outdoors. Come out and enjoy the beauty of 

the gardens this year at the Gardens of 

Madison County! n 


HOLMES HOLMESCC.EDU COMMUNITY FOLLOW 

US ON: 

COLLEGE 

FRESHMAN FRIDAY 2018 

GET AHEAD 

OF THE GAME. 

Come to Freshman Friday at Holmes 

Community College and set up your 

schedule, meet other incoming students, 

and get FREE Holmes gear! 

VISIT hccapp.holmescc.edu/freshmanfriday 

GRENADA 

APRIL 6 

8:30-10:30 | 662-227-2325 

RIDGELAND 

APRIL 13 

8:30-10:30 | 601-605-3311 

GOODMAN 

APRIL 20 

8:30-10:30 | 662-472-9144 

Holmes Community College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, disability, or age in its educational programs and activities, employment, or 

admissions. Our Compliance Officer has been designated to handle inquiries and grievances regarding non-discrimination, compliance policies, and procedures for the College and can be 

reached by phone at (662) 472-9429. Written inquiries can be emailed to: compliance@holmescc.edu or mailed to: Compliance office, 412 W. Ridgeland Ave., Ridgeland, MS 39157. 


Contact us today! 601.421.1437 

We specialize in an array of services including 

maintainance, repairs, system additions & more! 

Schedule with one of our 

5-star technicians today. 

info@madison-irrigation.com | www.madison-irrigation.com 

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installation, service & maintenance. 

LIFETIME 

WARRANTY 

ANDSCAPE LIGHTING SYSTEM 

LLANDSCAPE LIGHTING SYSTEM 

For high quality lighting 

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Hometown 

GOODNESS 

Cadbury Egg Brownies 

• 1 box dark chocolate brownie mix 

• 1/2 cup corn syrup 

• 1/4 cup softened butter 

• 3 cups powdered sugar 

• 1 tsp. vanilla 

• Yellow food coloring 

• 1 can creamy home-style 

chocolate frosting 

Make brownies according to box 

directions. Allow to cool. Cream 

the corn syrup, butter and vanilla. 

Slowly add in powdered sugar 

beating until incorporated. Transfer 

1/2 of the filling to another bowl 

and add yellow food coloring. 

Spread yellow mixture on top of 

brownies and refrigerate for 15 

minutes. Spread white mixture on 

top of yellow layer and refrigerate 

for 15 minutes. Open frosting 

container and microwave for 30 

seconds. Stir and pour about 

2/3 of frosting over brownies. 

You can then set in freezer or 

refrigerator for a few minutes to set 

the frosting. 

Easter Lemon Cake 

• 3/4 cup unsalted butter softened 

• 1-1/2 cups of white granulated 

sugar 

• 1 small package of Jell-O lemon 

pie filling or instant lemon 

pudding mix 

• 2 Tbsp. fresh lemon zest 

• 4 eggs 

• 1-1/4 cup whole milk 

• 1/3 cup canola oil 

• 1 tsp. vanilla extract 

• 1-3/4 cups all-purpose flour 

• 3 Tbsp. cornstarch 

• 4 teaspoons baking powder 

• 1 teaspoon salt 

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees. 

Grease and flour a standard 12-cup 

Bundt pan. In a medium bowl, whisk 

together the flour, cornstarch, baking 

powder and salt then set aside. For 

icing, using an electric mixer on 

medium speed with a paddle 

attachment, cream together the 

butter and granulated sugar until 

light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. 

Add the lemon pie filling mix 

powder (you do not cook it) and 

combine thoroughly. Beat in the 

eggs, one at a time, making sure each 

is thoroughly incorporated. Mix in 

the lemon zest. Combine the milk, 

oil, and vanilla extract in a large 

measuring cup or bowl. 

Starting with the dry ingredients, 

alternate pouring a third of the wet 

and dry ingredients into the mixer 

bowl, incorporating thoroughly after 

each addition. You will end on the 

wet ingredients. Mix on medium 

speed for 2 minutes after the last 

addition. 

Pour the cake batter into the 

prepared Bundt pan and bake for 

50 to 60 minutes, or until a tester 

inserted into the center of the cake 

comes out clean. Invert the cake 

onto a baking rack to cool. Frost 

with lemon buttercream icing 

when the cake has completely 

cooled and sprinkle lemon zest 

over the icing if wanted. 

Garlic Butter 

Roasted Carrots 

• 2 pounds carrots , diagonally cut 

into 2 to 3-inch pieces 

• 5 tablespoons butter 

• 4 garlic cloves , minced 

• 1/4 teaspoon salt 

• 1/4 teaspoon fresh ground pepper 

chopped fresh parsley , for garnish 

Preheat oven to 425F. Grease a 

baking sheet with cooking spray and 

set aside. Cut up the carrots and set 

aside. Melt butter over medium heat 

in a large nonstick skillet or pan. 

Add garlic and cook for 3 minutes, 

or until lightly browned, stirring very 

frequently. DO NOT burn the garlic. 

Toss the carrots with the garlic butter 

either in the pan or pour the butter 

over them in a mixing bowl until 

well combined. Transfer carrots to 

previously prepared baking sheet. 

Arrange in one layer and bake 22-30 

minutes, or until carrots are tender. 

Remove from oven and transfer to 

a serving plate. Taste for seasoning 

and adjust accordingly. Garnish with 

fresh chopped parsley and serve. 


Creamy Twice-Baked 

Potato Casserole 

• 8 medium sized baked potatoes 

• 2 c. cheddar cheese 

• 16. oz. sour cream 

• 1/2 c. milk 

• 1/4 c. melted butter 

• 2 garlic cloves 

• 1 T fresh chives chopped 

• 1-1/2 t. salt 

• 1/2 t. pepper 

• 6 slices of bacon cooked 

and chopped 

Boil or bake peeled potatoes until 

tender. Mash potatoes. Add 1 cup 

cheese and next ingredients. Beat well 

with a mixer. Pour into baking dish 

(sprayed with cooking spray) 

Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. 

Sprinkle remaining cheese 

Slow-Cooker 

Honey-Glazed Ham 

• 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar 

• 1/2 cup honey 

• 1/2 cup water 

• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard 

• 10 whole cloves 

• 1 (8- to 10-pound) spiral cut ham 

Make the glaze: Combine the brown 

sugar, honey, water, mustard, and 

cloves in a small saucepan and bring 

to a simmer over medium-high heat. 

Cook until the glaze is homogeneous 

and fragrant from the cloves, about 

5 minutes. Remove the cloves with 

a spoon. 

Prepare the ham: Place the ham in a 

6-quart or larger slow cooker, making 

sure you can put the lid on. You may 

have to turn the ham on its side, or 

trim a bit off the top if your ham is too 

large. Gently pull apart the ham’s 

slices and separate them. 

Add the glaze: Pour the glaze over the 

ham, trying to cover as much of the 

ham as possible, but not worrying too 

much, as the glaze will fall back into 

the slow cooker. 

Cook the ham: Cover and cook on 

LOW for 4 to 5 hours. Every hour 

(or as you remember), baste the ham 

with the glaze. You can also flip the 

ham halfway through cooking, if 

desired. 

Serve: The ham is ready when it 

reaches an internal temperature of 

140°F. Serve with the thickened glaze. 

Bacon Asparagus 

Crescents 

• 8 slices bacon 

• Flour, for rolling out dough 

• 1 sheet crescent dough 

• 1 small bunch (about 1/2 lb.) 

asparagus, woody ends removed 

• 1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil 

• Kosher salt 

• Freshly ground black pepper 

• Egg wash 

• 1/2 c. freshly grated Parmesan 

Preheat oven to 400º. On a large 

baking sheet with a wire rack placed 

on top, lay bacon. Bake until bacon 

is cooked but still pliable, about 20 

minutes. 

Increase oven heat to 425°. Line a 

large sheet pan with parchment paper. 

On a lightly floured surface, roll the 

puff pastry out to a large rectangle. 

Square off edges and cut the rectangle 

into 8 even squares. 

Toss asparagus in olive oil and season 

with salt and pepper. 

Brush each square of puff pastry with 

egg wash. Place a slice of cooked bacon 

on top, followed by 3 to 4 stalks of 

asparagus and a sprinkle of Parmesan. 

Wrap bacon around asparagus and 

cheese, then wrap puff pastry around 

the bacon-asparagus bundle, 

overlapping the puff pastry ends to seal. 

Brush each puff pastry with more egg 

wash. Bake until puff pastry is golden 

and puffed, about 12 minutes. 

Beef Tenderloin 

with Vegetables & 

Hollandaise Sauce 

• 1 beef tenderloin (5lbs.), trimmed 

• 2 teaspoons salt 

• 1/2 teaspoon pepper 

VEGETABLES 

• 1/4 cup butter, cubed 

• 8 medium carrots, julienned 

• 6 celery ribs, julienned 

• 1/4 teaspoon salt 

• 1/4 teaspoon pepper 

• 3 cans (14 ounces each) 

water-packed artichoke hearts, 

drained and quartered 

HOLLANDAISE SAUCE 

• 3 large egg yolks 

• 3 tablespoons heavy whipping cream 

• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard 

• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper 

• 1 cup butter, melted 

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice 

Preheat oven to 425°. Tuck thin tail 

end of tenderloin under; tie at 2” 

intervals with kitchen string. Sprinkle 

with salt and pepper. Place on a rack 

in a shallow roasting pan. Roast 50-60 

minutes or until meat reaches desired 

doneness Remove from oven; tent 

with foil. Let stand 15 minutes before 

slicing. 

In a large skillet, heat butter over 

medium-high heat. Add carrots; cook 

and stir 5 minutes. Add celery, salt 

and pepper; cook and stir 5-7 minutes 

until vegetables are crisp- tender. 

Stir in artichokes. 

In top of a double boiler or a metal 

bowl over simmering water, whisk egg 

yolks, cream, mustard and cayenne 

until blended; cook until mixture is 

thick enough to coat a metal spoon 

and temperature reaches 160°, 

whisking constantly. Remove from 

heat. Very slowly drizzle in warm 

melted butter, whisking constantly. 

Whisk in lemon juice. Transfer sauce 

to a small bowl and place in a larger 

bowl of warm water. Keep warm, 

stirring occasionally, until ready to 

serve, up to 30 minutes. 



Hometown Madison 

READER 

SPOTLIGHT 

Laura 

BROWNLEE 

Why did you decide to make Madison 

your home? 

I was fortunate to be offered a teaching position 

with Germantown High School right out of 

college, so that is what lead me to be a resident 

of Madison. 

How long have you lived in Madison? 

I have lived here for almost 6 years. 


My husband, Brent, is an assistant principal at 

Germantown High School, and we have two 

daughters – Chloe Claire who is 4 years old, 

and Everly who is 18 months. 

What is your favorite memory of living 

in Madison? 

Although it was recent, I would have to say the 

big snow we got in December 2017 is my favorite 

memory so far. We loved getting to play in the 

snow, and also riding around the city admiring how 

beautiful everything looked covered in white. 

Where are your three favorite places to eat 

in Madison? 

At this stage in life, we are all about the kid-friendly 

places, so we like to eat at Georgia Blue, Beagle 

Bagel, and of course, El Ranchito. 

What are some fun things to do in Madison 

on the weekends? 

My girls love to visit Strawberry Patch Park, which 

they fondly call “the duck park” because of all the 

ducks that live there. We also like to catch the latest 

movie at Malco theatre. 


spare time. 

I enjoy having “date night” with my husband, going 

on trips with my family and friends, and shopping 

for pretty much anything. 


I want to visit Italy to explore my Italian roots, 

swim with dolphins, and attend the Super Bowl— 

preferably one with a Steelers victory! 


I know this sounds super cheesy, but I have to say 

it’s my mom. She is the most selfless, truly loving 

and giving woman I know, and I aspire to be the 

kind of mother and person she is. 

Where do you see yourself ten years 

from now? 

Ten years from now, I see myself continuing my 

dream job as a real estate agent in Madison, and 

enjoying watching my kids grow up in one of the 

best places to live! 

What is your favorite childhood memory? 

Some of my fondest childhood memories come 

from the big family gatherings that we would have 

for Thanksgiving or other holidays at my house. 

With all my loved ones gathered in one place and a 

kitchen filled with lots of delicious food, there were 

always good times and lasting memories made. 

If you could give us one encouraging quote, 

what would it be? 

“Nothing can dim the light that shines from 

within.” – Maya Angelou 

Amy Edwards 

601-707-9434 

1716 Highway 51, Ste. I 

Madison 

+ = BIG SAVINGS 

Insurance and coverages subject to terms, qualifications and availability. Allstate Vehicle and Property Insurance Co.,Allstate Property and Casualty Insurance Co. Northbrook, 

Illinois © 2010 Allstate Insurance Co. 

226958 


The CHALKBOARD 

MADISON COUNTY SCHOOLS 

Mannsdale 

First 100 Days of School 

Get Ready to Run 


Coach Dock Daniel was 

named one of the Metro 

Teachers of the Year. 

Coach Daniel has also 

been named Mannsdale 

Upper Teacher of the Year 

and Madison County 

Elementary Teacher of the 

Year. We are so proud of 

Coach Daniel and the 

amazing things he is doing 

at Mannsdale Upper 

Elementary. 

Ann Smith 

Teachers Receive National Board Certification 

This year, eight teachers at Ann Smith Elementary received the 

gold standard in teaching–certification from the National 

Board for Professional Teaching Standards–bringing the total 

number of ASE nationally board certified teachers to seventeen. 

The NBPTS believes higher standards for teachers mean better 

learning for students. The students of ASE are fortunate attend 

a school where 40% of the staff have met these standards. 

We celebrate these outstanding teachers for their dedication, 

diligence, and untiring spirit! 

Conservation Educators of the Year 

Back L-R: Jessica Rives, Lyndie Faulkner, Robin Ball, Claire Winchester, 

Missy Green 

Front L-R: Mandy Rabalais, Lauren Shotts, Audrey Will, Jamie Selman 

Front L-R: Julie Benson, Ashley Young, Emily Melichar, Mary McCall 

McArthur, Michelle Portera, Laura Bivins, Katie Spence, Mary Kate Rees. 

Back L-R: Tameeka Fairley, Andrea Moss, Cathy Lutz, Tiffany Maisel, 

Leona Bishop, and Stephanie Clark. Not pictured: Deborah Cole, Shelia 

Devan, Melissa Philley 

Rosa Scott 

In effort to combat the growing epidemic of social isolation in 

our schools and community, Rosa Scott students have participated 

in Start with Hello Week in coordination with the Sandy 

Hook Promise. It is our hope that the week’s activities will serve 

to empower our young people to create a culture of inclusion 

within our school and community. Some of the week’s activities 

included a visit from our local Allstate representative Steven 

James who graciously helped our SGA distribute cookies. 

Submissions provided by local officials from each individual district and not to be considered editorial opinion. 




MRA 

Visit from the K-9 Unit 

Sergeant Tim Tillotson and Investigator Paul Bunch, along with 

their K-9’s Donna and Max, visited our second and third graders. 

Second grade read “Officer Buckle and Gloria” and third grade 

read “Aero and Officer Mike” which are both about police officers 

and their K-9’s. 

L-R: Investigator Paul Bunch, K9 Max, Anna Stevens, Mae Dismuke, 

Reese Johnson, Walker Joyner, Ethan Love, Kate MacPherson, William Holladay, 

Hayes Harless, Sergeant Tim Tillotson, K9 Donna. 

5th Grade Cheer 

Back L-R: Kaylee Jones, Grace Caroline Hazzlerig, Lily Grace Coppage, Sarah 

Hart, Emily Gallaspy, Olivia Strickland, Fallon Humphries, Maggie Mangum, 

Hannah Forbes, Bayli Ballard Chandler, Mary Michael Cash 

Middle L-R: McKenzie Blue, Anna Claire Mertz, Carly Venable, Ava Young, 

Annie Hall Feild, Summer Day, Reece Sims, Emily Francis, Savannah Grissom, 

Kassidy McMillan 

Front L-R: Britton Dickerson, Salem Hawkins, Sarah Glen Lipscomb, 

Sela McCalop, Addison Lay, Weatherly Wilson, Shelton Sory, Natalie Seabrook, 

Mary Alex Montgomery 

4th Grade Football Team 

L-R: Coaches: Bill Anderson, Todd Dalton, Kevin Hansford, Austin Banks 

Back L-R: James Downer, Austin Banks, Phen Chandler, Hines Wellhausen, 

Canaan Smitherman, Kent Butler 

Middle L-R: Ethan Williams, Bowen Gordon, Kaiden King, Alex Lambert, 

Jack Dalton, Wade Hansford, John Hayden Love 

Front L-R: Christian Taylor, William Thomas, Pierce Anderson, Tyler Lopez, 

Myers Noone, H. A. Thompson, Bennett Duncan 

Author Visits First Grade 

Dr. Lee Stockstill, DVM is a veterinarian/author from Franklin, 

Tennessee, but grew up in Jackson. He visited the first graders and 

read “How Mayfield Found his Meow” about one of his patients 

who would not meow. 

L-R: Ethan Rhodus, Sarah Kate Williamson, Dr. Stockstill, Parker Howe 


Submissions provided by local officials from each individual district and not to be considered editorial opinion.

“PATS” Parents & Teachers Association Volunteers 

The mission of MRA’s “PATS” is to involve all MRA parents, 

faculty members, and administrative personnel in programs, 

projects, and activities designed to benefit our students and school. 

All MRA parents along with MRA faculty members and 

administrative personnel are members of PATS. 

MRA JV Dance Team 

Back L-R: Ella Hall Bounds, Anna Grace Headley, Meghan Murphy, 

Ella Matlock, Evelyn Eubanks, Lydia McIntosh, London Breedlove 

Front L-R: Bess Chinchen, Isabelle Sandridge, Carlisle Johnson, Carly Chennault, 

Aniston Carpenter, Caroline McCraney 

Missy Kinkade, Amy McInteer, Jenny Montgomery, Courtney Kirk, Kelly Dixon, 

Tara Lay, Lauren Grissom, Grace Fuller 

Jennifer Long, Wendy Holladay, Suzanne Lambert, Jennifer Rhea, Rachel Rimmer 

Teresa Dillon, Tonya Barber, Rhonda Loeb, Paige Long, Lee Powell, Amy Feild, 

Kristi Cameron, Nancy Smylie, Tori Heard 

MRA seniors Lilli Denson and Aubree Dillon will both be 

playing soccer at the next level. Lilli Denson will be playing at 

Belhaven University and Aubree Dillon will be playing at 

Southeastern Louisiana University. 

Left: Greg Self, Richard Duease, Termie Land, Aubree Dillon 

Right: Greg Self, Richard Duease, Termie Land, Lilli Denson 

Byars Martin. Mindy Cobb, Nancy Smylie, Courtney Streeter, Amber Arnold, 

Courtney Kirk, Bree Smith 

Toni Dearman, Shelli Strickland, Mona McBride, Stacey Carter, Allison Miller, 

Jill Upchurch, Jamie Kerr 




Madison Central 

Madison Central’s Pawprint yearbook financial and production staffs hosted senior night of Beauty and Beau, February 9. 

L-R: senior beauties Maddie Gall, Ellen Morgan, Anna Potts, Hayden Ray, Catherine Whitten, Most Beautiful – Bradlea James, Skylar Kelly, Sydney Butler, 

Taylor Carson, Tara Broome, Colby Smith 

L-R: senior beaus Adam McDonal, Ryan McClure, JonMorgan Malone, Will Stanard, Chanu Cherukuri, Most Handsome – Timothy Seago, Luke Little, 

John Walker Webb, Trey McMullan, Connor Franks, Andrew Horton 


L-R: Junior beaus and beauties Jack Thoms, Mallory Walker, Sydney Storm, Victoria Stevens, Claire Iupe, 

Payton Holtsinger, Dailee Ellis, Mallory Dale, Hannah Brady, Jacob Saxton. 

Most Handsome Timothy Seago, Most Beautiful 

Bradlea James. 

L-R: Sophomore beauties Keely Young, Anna Johnston, McKenna Goddard, Allie Grace Bell, Jalyn Kelly, 

Claire Humphreys, Aubrie Tolbert, Meghan Thrash, Libba Ewing, Ramsey Claire Robinson 

L-R: Sophomore beaus Brandon Strain, 

Clayton Fairchild, RJ Mack 

Madison Central High School teacher Laura Miller has been named 

2017-2018 teacher of the year. Miller has taught at Madison Central for 

18 years. She received her B.A. and M.A. from Mississippi State University. 

While at Madison Central, Miller has taught regular and accelerated freshman 

English, regular and accelerated sophomore English, dual credit/dual enrollment 

Comp I and II, mentoring, PSAT prep and learning strategies. Miller has a 

son and daughter currently at Madison Central. 

Submissions provided by local officials from each individual district and not to be considered editorial opinion. 




Christ Covenant 

Christ Covenant Students participate in a variety of Super 

Science activities to develop a sense of wonder about our world. 

Our students begin to understand the scientific principles 

through a biblical worldview. 


Submissions provided by local officials from each individual district and not to be considered editorial opinion.

St. Andrew’s 

St. Andrew’s Episcopal School and the St. Andrew’s Parents’ 

Association are hosting the eighth annual Arts on the Green 

April 20-21. 

Back L-R: Amy Amundson, corporate sponsor chair, Mary Clift Abdalla, Starry 

Night chair, Sidnette Turnage, finance chair, Debbie Lominick, tickets chair, 

Heather Higgins, Children’s Green chair, Bethany Farr, promotions chair, 

Yolanda McElroy, auction chair, Cindy Funkhouser, volunteer chair 

Front L-R: Lisa Thompson, Arts on the Green co-chair, Stephanie Tanner, Arts 

on the Green chair; (not pictured) Julie Rust, Artisan’s Village chair, Suzanne 

Sones, Community Outreach chair, Katie Nelson, fashion show chair, Shannon 

Watt, staging chair, and Crystal Skelton, Arts on the Green 2019 chair-elect. 

Happy Mardi Gras! Everyone loves a parade, but maybe no one 

loves a parade more than Lower Schoolers! On February 13, 

St. Andrew’s Early Childhood students heeded the call by forming 

the Krewe of Little Saints and parading for the 1st to 4th graders, 

tossing beads to the cheering throngs along the way. Head of 

School George Penick and Head of Lower School Marcia Poole 

led the parade as Mardi Gras King and Queen, with Upper 

School band students performing jazz music along the way. 

2018 Saints Summer Experience 

Each summer since 1950, a team of dedicated St. Andrew’s faculty and staff 

have staged a comprehensive, exciting camp experience for students in the Jackson 

area. 2018 marks our 68th year of amazing camp experiences. Join us for the best 

summer-long day camp in Mississippi! 

The Saints Summer Experience covers all aspects of a child’s growth during 

time away from school. We have a wide range of academic camps, sports camps for 

all, and specialty camps that dig deep into individual passions and interests. 

Comprising the backbone of the program are our four regular day camps that meet 

each day for nine weeks. These camps run from 7:30am to 2:45pm and consist of 

teacher-created curriculum that covers movement, creative learning, S.T.E.A.M. 

Lab activities, language, art, team exercises, gardening, cooking, and free play. Day 

camps keep the child’s body and mind active and engaged throughout the day. 

We bring in scores of expert guests to enhance our learning, and we take a weekly 

field trip to have some fun and learn something new. We offer After Camp Care 

through 5:45 p.m. to complete the day for working families. 

Register today at https://gosaints.campmanagement.com/enroll. All camps info is 

at https://gosaints.org/camps 


The 

Time 

COIN 

Camille Anding 

Words! Who can count them? 

They’re everywhere – on signs, 

billboards, assembled in books, letters, and 

reports. They spill from our lips – often 

without forethought and merge with an 

endless flow from tongues of every nation 

and tribe. 

Some words are put to music to tell 

stories or reveal happy or broken hearts. 

Other words are written in love letters, 

intimate and saturated in romance. 

It’s striking to me to realize the power 

in words. A collection of the alphabet of 

innocent letters can form words that build 

up and edify or they can mutilate and destroy. 

Words also have the power to lodge in 

our minds – like a branding in our brain. 

Children learn quickly to use words to 

communicate, but their words are less likely 

to stick. Their memories are short, and their 

hearts more forgiving. 

It’s the teenage years when words 

become weapons of survival. Sarcastic words 

grow in popularity as individuals seek a rank 

in the “pecking” order. Group laughter 

elevates the speaker while singling out that 

individual to be the butt of the joke. 

I find it interesting that my memory 

has “fogged” over a lot of my childhood’s 

details, but one memory is as fresh as the 

day it was made. A friend, I thought, singled 

me out in a group and formed a series of 

words that cut sharper than a dagger. There 

was no outward sign of blood, but I learned 

that day that hearts can bleed. 

After the laughter died, life went back 

to the usual. All was history, but I had 

learned the searing pain of words and their 

ability to leave scars. 

The most painful lessons are usually 

the best learned. That brief experience has 

remained a witness to me and a permanent 

reminder of the power of words. I wish 

I could say that my own tongue was tamed 

from that moment until now, but I can’t. 

I still let it say things that are not edifying 

or kind. 

A wise Proverb says, “Kind words are 

like honey – sweet to the soul and healthy 

for the body.” Another says, “Gentle words 

bring life and health; a deceitful tongue 

crushes the spirit.” 

Gentle, kind words are what we need. 

There are enough scars. n 



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YEARS OF LASTING IMPRESSIONS 

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DIRECT DIGITAL GREEN CROSS MEDIA 

DESIGN 

HEDERMAN BROTHERS 

247 Industrial Drive N Madison, Mississippi 39110 

601-853-7300 1-800-844-7301 

www.hederman.com 

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More than 30 practices. 

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To see all locations and specialties, please visit MyMeritDoctor.com 

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Walk-ins are welcome at all primary care practices, 

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