Brandon1218web

volume 5 number 4 

winter 2018 

MEET CONGRESSMAN MICHAEL GUEST 

____________________ 

A Family Gives Thanks 

____________________ 

Using Fiction as a Ministry 

5 

YEARS 

FIVE CELEBRATING 

HOMETOWN MAGAZINES 

5 

YEARS 

FIVE CELEBRATING 

HOMETOWN MAGAZINES

2 • Winter 2018

Hometown Brandon • 3

from our Community Bank family to yours. 

Capture the spirit of the season–a 

special wish from our Community Bank 

family to yours. 

“Glo 

in th 

and 

pea 

on 

fav 

– 

“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth 

peace to men on whom his favor rests.” – 

Luke 2:14 

• COMMUNITYBANK.NET • MEMBER FDIC 

• COMMUNITYBANK.NET • MEMBER FDIC 

4 • Winter 2018

PUBLISHER & EDITOR 

Tahya Dobbs 

CFO 

Kevin Dobbs 

CONSULTING EDITOR 

Mary Ann Kirby 

SPECIAL PROJECTS MANAGER 

Brenda McCall 

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE 

Karla Johnson 

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT 

Alisha Floyd 

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER 

Othel Anding 

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS 

Camille Anding 

Austin Bourne 

Jim Burnett 

Charla Jordan 

Leigh Ramsey 

Suzanne Ross 

LAYOUT DESIGN 

Daniel Thomas - 3dt 

www.facebook.com 

/hometownbrandonmagazine 

www.HTMags.com 

CONTACT US AT 

info@htmags.com 

601.706.4059 

26 Eastgate Drive, Suite F 

Brandon, MS 39042 

• • • 

Hometown Brandon is published by Hometown 

Magazines. All rights reserved. No portion of 

Hometown Brandon may be reproduced 

without written permission from the publisher. 

The management of Hometown Brandon is not 

responsible for opinions expressed by its 

writers or editors. All communications sent to 

our editorial staff are subject to publication and 

the unrestricted right to be refused, or to be 

edited and/or editorially commented on. All 

advertisements are subject to approval by the 

publisher. The production of Hometown Brandon 

is funded by advertising. 

Who would have thought one store could offer every retail item imaginable? No, it’s not 

Wal-Mart. It’s the app store on our electronic devices. Electronic technology has brought the 

world into our homes with virtual tours through endless catalogs plus the added luxury of 

having orders delivered to our front doors. 

It’s a convenience that most would add to their Thanksgiving list, but is there a hidden cost 

to that convenience? Absolutely! Imagine the empty storefront windows and how our business 

landscape could change if there were no walk-in customers. With closed businesses would come 

depleted sales tax revenues. That would mean an end or reduction to many of our services we 

normally take for granted. Police and fire protection, K-12 education and environmental 

projects are just a few that would be affected. 

I’m certain brick-and-mortar businesses are grappling with their future and how to stay 

afloat in the rapidly advancing cyber world. An obvious solution for our hometown businesses 

would be walk-in customers spending locally. 

“Tis the season” when we celebrate the greatest Gift ever given. 

The majority in our hometown will be a part of that celebration 

by giving and receiving gifts. Buying those gifts locally in brickand-mortar 

stores could help impact all of us in multiple ways. 

Please keep that in mind as you ride down our streets and 

enjoy the displays of Christmas lights and decorations. You can 

be a part of a special cycle that helps make that, 

and much more, continue. 

In this issue The Way We Were ................. 8 

A Family Gives Thanks ............. 12 

Using Fiction as a Ministry ......... 18 

Austin Bourne .................... 25 

The Michael Guest Family ...... 34 

Women on the Move ............... 47 

Checks for Rouse .................60 

Everything's Coming Up Roses ...... 62 


6 • Winter 2018


The way 

WE were 

Mitzi & Ed Sallis 


Mitzi Shelton was in a dilemma. 

Ed agreed, having already met 

They still remember the hot, 

“Happy ever after” seems to 

The annual ball for her sorority 

Mitzi at former fraternity dances. 

stifling summer day of their 

describe their marriage best as 

at Millsaps College had been 

It would be a date that would set 

wedding in Winona on August 3, 

they reminisced over their 60 

scheduled but it was the same 

in motion a marriage relationship 

1958. The church was limited 

years together. Mitzi said, “We’ve 

weekend her date was going to be 

celebrating 60 years, two children, 

electrically to either run the air 

had a happy life with two lovely 

out of town. She still recalls how 

and four grandchildren. 

conditioner or the organ, but not 

children and now four grands.” 

she decided to get up enough 

Ed transferred to Mississippi 

both. They opted for the A/C 

Ed didn’t hesitate in thinking 

nerve to ask Ed Sallis if he would 

State after one and a half years at 

and piano accompaniment. 

back about how he saw her and fell 

be her date. “He was standing at 

Millsaps but not before falling in 

Governor Coleman was a native 

in love, “She was beautiful!” Mitzi 

the water fountain in the cafeteria 

love with Mitzi. For the remainder 

of Ackerman and friend of the 

said it was Ed’s sense of humor and 

and I told him my problem and 

of their college days, they made a 

family. When the couple found 

his steps on the dance floor that 

how I would like for him to escort 

lot of trips between the colleges, 

out the governor planned to attend 

first impressed her. 

me to the ball.” 

Mitzi’s home in Winona, and 

their wedding, Mitzi wasn’t 

Ed’s home in Ackerman. 

overjoyed. “He will get all the 

attention!” she thought. 

8 • Winter 2018

“...never go to bed mad. 

Communicate and 

talk things over.” 

After marriage, Ed went from 

Ed was instrumental in teaching 

a bank examiner position to 

them responsibilities in work 

president of the Bank of Aberdeen. 

and money management. Both 

Mitzi was an elementary school 

teacher until their children were 

born. It was the couple’s decision 

that Mitzi should be a stay-at-home 

mom with Lisa and Edwin. 

Ed and Mitzi agree that she 

was the main disciplinarian. She 

was quick to add that long talks, 

and carefully explaining solutions 

to the children’s mistakes and 

problems, were her main tool. 

children, when of age, were 

expected to have summer jobs. 

Time and experience moved 

Ed to Brandon, their “forever 

after” home where Ed was CEO 

of the Rankin County Bank (later 

acquired by Trustmark National 

Bank). Their daughter, Lisa 

McClintock, with husband 

Charles and their two sons, live 

in Madison. Son, Edwin with 

wife Carol Ann and their two 

Mitzi advises young couples 

planning to marry to get to know 

each other along with each other’s 

families. Ed’s advice for newlyweds 

was never go to bed mad. 

Communicate and talk things over. 

The Sallises appear to have 

few grievances with one another. 

Mitzi’s only complaint was, “He 

wants to watch football too much!” 

In retirement, Mitzi enjoys 

playing bridge and working in the 

yard. Fishing is a favorite sport for 

Ed along with dancing. Their last 

time to dance—the previous 

Friday night. That sorority ball 

some 60 plus years ago was a 

history-making event, and their 

marriage dance continues. l 

daughters, live near the Reservoir. 


2018 Brandon Christmas Gala 

November 24 / The Vault Venue 

10 • Winter 2018


12 • Winter 2018

A Family 

Gives Thanks 

- And So Much More 

Leigh Ramsey 

“Find the little blessings in everything, 

I still think about that,” Amy Hogue stated 

as she reminisced about donating a kidney 

to her brother. Those words were imprinted 

on Amy’s heart by her sister- in-law, Kerry 

Arender, 15 years ago. When Kerry shared 

those words of wisdom, she had been busy 

tending to Amy’s brother, Jeff, as he fought 

for his life dealing with kidney failure and 

dialysis. Though her days were long, hard, 

and uncertain, she said finding the little 

blessings helped her keep going each day. 

Jeff had been born one month premature 

in Jackson, Mississippi. Doctors quickly 

discovered that one of his kidneys had never 

formed. Only a hard mass was in its place, 

which they immediately removed. After 

several weeks of struggling with health 

complications in the NICU, doctors 

approached Jeff’s father, Jay Arender, 

and said, “You know we are losing Jeff.” 

Mr. Arender replied that he knew. 

The medical team then decided to do 

exploratory surgery and check out his second 

kidney. That kidney had issues with the valves 

and had to be repaired. The doctors, knowing 

that Mr. Arender was in the plumbing 

supply business, told him they had “Roto- 

Rootered” his valves and corrected their 

placement. After surgery, Jeff’s kidney began 

operating at twenty percent. Over the next 

several years, the kidney improved even 

more, increasing to 50% function. 

Jeff enjoyed a pretty normal childhood as 

a “spirited youth,” only visiting the specialist 

once a year to check on his kidney. At 23 

years old, he got married. He and his wife, 

Kerry, soon added two children to their 

family, John Austin and Jane Claire. However, 

at 31 years old, Jeff began noticing complications. 

He started having recurring infections, 

each one causing a little more damage to his 

kidney. Between 2001 and 2002, he spent 

165 days in the hospital. Doctors decided 

that it was time to remove the remaining 

kidney and put Jeff on dialysis. He was 

eventually approved to receive a transplant 

and that began the search for a new kidney. 

Over a dozen people were tested, in 

hopes they would be a match. To determine 

if a kidney is a match, they are rated on a 

scale of 1-6. The family began celebrating 

when Jeff’s mom, Claudia, received the 

news that her kidney was a 5 on that scale. 

She quickly grabbed the phone to share the 

exciting news with her daughter, Amy. 

While they were on that phone call, 

Amy received a call from a nurse letting her 

know that she, too, was a match. Her kidney 

was rated a 6 on that scale making her kidney 

a perfect match! Doctors stated that “it was 

as if Jeff’s kidney was in Amy, and she was 

holding it for him.” 

When asked how hard it was to decide 

to donate a kidney to her brother, Amy 

stated that there was never a question. 


She knew immediately that she’d be 

donating the kidney. Amy’s husband, Justin 

said, “When you keep asking over and over 

again, ‘What can we do to help?’, and the 

answer is this obvious, you don’t have to 

think twice about it.” 

In October 2003, the family traveled 

to Birmingham, Alabama, to have the 

The surgery was a success. Amy 

recovered as expected, knowing she had 

the support of family and friends to help 

her as she healed. Her brother Jeff has 

faced other health challenges since the 

transplant, however, his body accepted 

the kidney and it continues to thrive. 

While in the hospital for the surgery 

them get through this season. A successful 

fundraiser was hosted by patrons of the 

Music Barn in Polkville, Mississippi. It was 

attended by friends and family from all 

over Mississippi and beyond. This helped 

offset the cost of medical bills, but also 

filled the family’s mailboxes with cards, 

and letters of encouragement. 

transplant done at UAB. On the way there, 

the family went through a McDonald’s 

drive-thru. Jeff’s car went through first, 

followed by Amy’s car. When Amy got up 

to the drive-thru window, she was given a 

cross pendant that her brother had given 

the cashier for his sister to receive. Amy 

stated that she still occasionally wears 

that cross. 

Jeff and Kerry’s church family at 

First Baptist Brandon planned to travel to 

Alabama to pray for and serve the family 

during the surgery. Jeff asked them, instead, 

to stay home and pray every 30 minutes 

throughout the duration of the procedure. 

Amy said that she remembers feeling such 

comfort as the anesthesia was taking over, 

knowing that someone was praying for her 

at that very moment. 

and for all other hospital stays, someone 

from the First Baptist Brandon church 

congregation or staff visited every day for 

prayer and support. As a matter of fact, 

Kerry was amazed that God always placed 

the specific person they needed to see at 

the hospitals every time they would go. 

Once, Amy ran into a lady who recognized 

her from one of her brother’s ICU stays. 

She had been Jeff’s nurse and said she 

remembered him. She said watching what 

he went through, she witnessed a miracle. 

That statement was said many times 

when the family was sharing the story, 

“Jeff being here is a miracle.” 

So many things stood out when 

discussing this experience with the family. 

They kept stating over and over how 

important community was in helping 

Claudia said that their family was 

being prayed for by people all over the 

country, many they had never even met. 

Kerry mentioned that they were greeted 

with signs lining the streets of their 

neighborhood when Jeff returned from 

the transplant surgery. She also mentioned 

that their Sunday school class brought them 

meals for months. They fed Amy’s family 

as well. Sometimes people would even mow 

their lawn or clean their house. Pinelake 

Christian School, where Kerry worked, 

made sure that whoever was keeping the 

children was provided a meal, too. 

Several other people were mentioned 

as being a blessing during that time. Jeff 

and Amy’s sister, Kay Arender Smith, who 

was also a willing match, stepped in to help 

keep the family business going while Jeff 

14 • Winter 2018

ecovered. Kerry’s parents, Randy and Linda 

Duteil of Brandon, were a great support to 

their daughter and the rest of the family. 

Family friend, Claire Papizan, who was also 

tested to be a donor, helped with the 

children, taking the young cousins, John 

Austin, 7, Jane Claire, 6, Logan Hogue, 5, 

and Kylie Hogue, 2, on different outings to 

chose to spend his honeymoon serving at 

an orphanage in Pucallpa, Peru. 

The entire family seems to have an 

increased passion for telling others about 

the importance of being an organ donor. 

According to an article published by 

upmc.com, one cadaver donation can save 

the lives of eight people through organ 

dance one day. He also attributes his 

stubbornness to the kidney. 

The one thing that was evident as the 

family shared their story is the mutual 

respect and admiration that came from 

this trial. The smiles and laughter that were 

exchanged as the story was being told was 

beautiful to witness. The family shared how 

keep their life filled with some semblance 

of normalcy during those days. She even 

bought a larger vehicle to fit all of the 

children comfortably. Logan stated that 

he looks back on those days with fond 

memories that created a deep bond 

between cousins. 

When asked if they thought there was 

a reason for this trial, so many answers were 

given, and some just rose to the surface 

without being spoken. Jeff stated that he 

felt this experience made his children more 

selfless than they’d be had they not gone 

through this. Both of his children love to 

serve people in third-world countries and 

are often traveling to places like Haiti to 

show love and compassion to the people 

they encounter. His son, John Austin, 22, 

donation, and can enhance the lives of up 

to 50 people with tissue donation. Kerry is 

quick to state that these donations don’t just 

affect the recipients, it blesses entire 

families. 

Jeff knows he would not be here had he 

not received his sister’s kidney. He has 

gotten to experience walking his daughter 

on the homecoming court, and being best 

man at his son’s wedding. Kerry also grew 

passionate about dialysis centers during this 

trial. She said they can be very lonely and 

forgotten places. Patients spend hours at 

these centers. She hopes to one day make a 

difference for people undergoing dialysis. 

Jeff jokes that because his sister, a local 

theatre and vocal coach, donated her kidney 

to him, he will likely break out in song and 

the experience not only brought them closer 

together, but bonded an entire community. 

As the story was being told, words of 

affirmation were often exchanged; Jeff 

calling his sister an “angel,” Amy looking in 

her brother’s eyes and telling him that God 

has him here for a purpose, and Jay telling 

his daughter-in- law, Kerry, that she is the 

“best thing that ever happened to his son.” 

In this season of thankfulness and giving, 

what a great reminder we have that some of 

the greatest gifts cannot be wrapped or put 

under a tree. Family, friends, community, and 

connection may be the greatest gift you 

could ever give or receive. l 


Brandon First United Methodist Church 

205 Mary Ann Drive 


We invite you to worship with us each 

Sunday Morning as we explore the meaning of 

“God with Us” 

Sunday Services 

Morning Worship —8:30 and 10:45am 

Sunday School—9:45 

December 2, 5pm 

“Holly & Ivy” 

A service of Hanging of the Green 

Followed by a 

Christmas Cover-Dish Dinner 


“Sounds of the Season” 

An Evening of Christmas Music 


 

“The Glorious Story of Christmas” 

Presented by the Chancel Choir 

December 24 

Christmas Eve Services 

Communion Offered 

4:30 until 5:30pm in the Sanctuary 

Christmas Eve Candlelight Service 

6pm in the Sanctuary 

16 • Winter 2018

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UsingFiction asa 

Ministry 

Jim Burnett 

18 • Winter 2018

Dr. Jim Burnett was raised in Brandon, 

Mississippi, by his parents, Wayne and 

Betty Burnett. He has one brother, 

Mike, who lives in New Orleans, and 

a sister, Alisa, who along with her 

husband Mick, moved from Knoxville, 

Tennessee, about eight months ago 

so she could be near their parents. 

They currently live in Brandon in the 

house and neighborhood in which the 

family grew up. Burnett was kind 

enough to submit the following to 

Hometown Brandon when asked about 

his life, his ministry, and his writing: 

Thinking back over my childhood in Rankin 

County, I have many fond memories. I attended 

Brandon public school through the seventh 

grade and then Brandon Academy from eighth 

grade until graduation. I was very involved in 

sports—especially football. 

I also grew up connected with 4-H and think 

back of the wonderful times we spent out at 

Hilltop Painted Acres with John Blough and his 

family. I was an active member of First Baptist 

Church of Brandon where I was licensed and 

ordained to preach. I graduated from the 

University of Southern Mississippi with a Bachelor 

of Science in Business Administration and went 

on to the New Orleans Baptist Theological 

Seminary where I earned my Master of Divinity 

and later my Doctor of Ministry. I have taught as 

adjunct professor for the New Orleans Baptist 

Theological Seminary and had the pleasure of 

being interviewed on Fox and Friends to 

discuss the topic of prayer in schools. 

For the last sixteen years I have served as 

lead pastor of Willow Pointe Church in Hattiesburg. 

What a journey it has been since we 

began this church! God has done amazing 

things. We have helped start ten other Southern 

Baptist churches. The body of Christ at Willow 

Pointe is a close-knit congregation who genuinely 

cares about one another and honoring and 

worshipping God. 

I have pastored four Mississippi churches over 

my thirty-year tenure in ministry. I have also 

been a writer for the last twenty-five years, 

authoring a plethora of leadership articles for 

Christian magazines. In 2014, I began writing 

Christian western novels and have now published 

five, as well as been an active contributor 

to several anthologies. I am currently working 

on four other novels, which hopefully will be 

published in 2019. 

God is using the messages of my series 

entitled, “Caller’s Spring Ranch,” in amazing 

ways. There are many testimonies posted to 

my Facebook page of how people’s lives have 

changed after reading some of the books. I refer 

to these books as the Gospel in a cowboy 

wrapper. I never imagined using fiction to 

minister to people, and yet this was the catalyst 

Jesus himself used in his teaching, more than 

any other, as he taught truth through parables 

or fictional stories. 

Through my writing, I have met people whom 

otherwise, I’m convinced, I never would have 

met in a lifetime. It has expanded my ministry in 

so many ways. 

I was raised by parents who grew up in 

Jasper and Smith Counties and later moved 

to Brandon before I was born. We owned the 

property where my dad grew up, which was in 

Pineville, just outside of Forrest, Mississippi. 

We hunted, fished, and rode horses. 

I’m married to Kim Burnett and we have three 

children: Brandon, Nathan, and Emily. We also 

have three grandchildren: Caroline, Ely, and Ally. 


20 • Winter 2018

People often ask me where I get my 

ideas for stories. Being a pastor for thirty 

years has provided much of the fuel for 

my writing. So many experiences in my 

ministry find expression in my writings. 

My most recent novel is entitled, The 

Legend of Sam Tally. It is a western tribute 

to one of the greatest kingdom builders 

who ever lived–Billy Graham. 

Several years back I traveled to Ashville, 

North Carolina, to visit The Cove, which 

is the Billy Graham Conference Center. 

During my visit, I walked through the rooms 

that chronicled the awesome crusades that 

Billy Graham conducted on six different 

continents. I wept as I considered just how 

much God used one man to impact the 

world with the Good News! 

That experience culminated in the 

writing of my latest book, The Legend of 

Sam Tally. Tally is an itinerant preacher 

who travels in and out of the boomtowns 

and cow towns of the West confronting 

the atrocities so rampant in these places. 

He ministers to the “down and outs” and 

through his ministry, these towns are 

transformed. If you ever wondered what 

Billy Graham’s ministry might have looked 

like in the 1800s, just give this book a read. 

Much of Graham’s character and his 

ministry experiences are present in the life 

and ministry of Sam Tally. 

Another seedbed for writing ideas 

sprouts from the many experiences my 

family and I had while riding horses on our 

farm. From my earliest recollection as a 

child, I have always loved horses and am 

still crazy about them. In fact, every 

summer for the last several years, I make 

my pilgrimage out West, mainly to 

different parts of Wyoming, where I do a 

lot of riding and working cattle with friends 

who own ranches. Working cattle in the 

Big Horn Basin last year was a unique 

experience. I finished the last few chapters 

of my second novel on the back of a 

horse. This past summer I spent a week at 

Horse Creek, Wyoming, on my good 

friend’s 64,000-acre cattle ranch. Horse 

Creek is actually the setting of my Caller’s 

Spring series. I am still writing stories out 

of that experience. There is something 

about being out West that makes me come 

alive on the inside. I suppose as Louis 

L’Amour the great western novelist once 

said, ‘there’s a little cowboy in all of us.’ In 

my case, there’s a big cowboy in me! 

A third source of ideas for my writings 

comes from the influence of my father, the 

late Wayne Burnett. I am amazed of how 

often my dad surfaces in my writings. We 

were always very close, and I learned so 

many things from this great man. He had 

an incredible sense of humor. As an 

attorney and as a human being, he was a 

staunch defender of the underdog, the 

weak, and those who could not defend 

themselves. He grew up in very hard 

times, but God put people in his life that 

saw his potential and encouraged him. 

He and my mother raised my siblings 

and me to love God and to respect and 

honor others. My dad was a great encourager 

to me as well as one of my prayer 

partners. He was also a master storyteller. 

I think that’s where I get my love for and 

abilities to write. It’s no wonder why 

something about Dad usually shows up 

in one of my books or short stories. He was 

a man who made deep impressions in my 

life, and in the lives of many others, as 

well. He passed away several months ago, 

but there’s not a day that goes by that I 

don’t think about him. 

I still enjoy coming home to Brandon to 

visit my mom. She is battling Parkinson’s 

disease these days but her faith in God 

and the love of her family keep her pushing 

on. She, too, has been a great inspiration 

for my writing. In fact, in my book, Return 

to Caller’s Spring Ranch, she is the heroine. 

My latest work is a Christmas collection 

of five short stories that will be out in 

November. It’s titled, Christmas Riders of 

the Backcountry. Each story captures the 

essence of Christmas in an Old West 

setting, of course. 

All of my books and short collections 

are available on Amazon. And none of my 

writings contain profanity, sex, or anything 

else dishonoring to God or offensive to 

the moral convictions of Christians. 

Please go to and like my Facebook 

page, Miracle at Caller’s Spring Ranch 

Series. There you can access information 

about my books and read testimonies 

that people have posted. 

I am proud to have been raised in 

Brandon, Mississippi. There are so many 

people in that town that poured into me 

and helped shape who I am today. To 

them I say thank you and God bless you. 

___________________ 

Jim is available to speak in just about 

any venue. He enjoys coming and 

sharing stories from his books. He 

speaks at churches, cowboy churches, 

festivals, rodeos, trail rides, etc. 

To order Burnett’s book and learn 

more about them, go to his Amazon 

author page or you can contact him 

by phone at 601-296-0555. 


22 • Winter 2018


24 • Winter 2018

The Long Ago Letter 

That Continues to Inspire 

Austin Bourne 

As the last few weeks of Summer 2018 

came to a close, I began to become increasingly 

sentimental and fond of the memories over my 

previous years of high school. As cliché as it 

may sound, it feels like yesterday I was 

walking through the doors of my high school 

as an intimidated, nervous freshman. I began 

to think back to all of the wonderful times that 

these past three years have brought me; every 

race, every team party, every talk at the lunch 

table, every Friday night football game, and all 

the many other events that encompass high 

school life. It occurred to me that this was the 

last year that I will be with all of my peers 

that I have gone through life with since grade 

school. And with that realization, I became 

overwhelmed with a fondness of my time spent 

as a high schooler. 

The last first-day of high school came and 

went, and along with it went the last first-pep 

rally, football game, and cross country 

practice. Amid one of my bouts of nostalgia, 

I started to rummage through an old drawer 

filled with memories from the past. I found 

birthday cards from years ago, awards from 

previous school years and many other little 

knick-knacks that hold a special amount of 

sentimental value. While sifting through this 

drawer overflowing with keepsakes, I came 

across two pieces of notebook paper folded 

together. Upon opening up the paper, I quickly 

remembered what the pages were, why they 

were so valuable, and why they’d been kept for 

so long. It was a letter that I wrote during my 

8th grade year about a life-changing race that 

I ran with my grandfather, Bryan, in April 

of 2011. The pages astonished me as I had 

nearly forgotten what was written upon them 

and how deeply the message is pierced within 

my soul. 

The letter, titled “The Race with Bryan” 

read exactly as follows: 

The thought came to me around 3 a.m. 

on a cold, sleepless night in the winter of my 

eighth grade year. As I tossed and turned 

trying to catch some sleep, my mind would 

not cease to wonder. I thought of everything: 

God, family, the meaning of life, running, 

everything that meant the most to me. As 

my mind continued on, it came across a time 

which was one of my last fond memories with 

my grandfather, Bryan. As I thought about 

the 2011 Crescent City Classic 10k Race, 

I realized something that could be no 

coincidence. That race was a symbol of the 

time I had with Bryan—and I believe that 

the Lord had me run that race to specifically 

mark the time I had with him. 

In the beginning of the Crescent City 

Classic 10k 2011, I ran alongside my dad and 

Bryan. Bryan was using this race as nothing 

more than an easy training run for his 

rigorous marathon training. At this time 

I was just beginning my journey into the 

wonderful world of running. This was going 

to be the farthest I had ever run—6.2 miles 

or 10 kilometers. 

In the beginning of that race while I ran 

along with my grandfather, I felt like the 

champion of the world. To be running 


alongside a man who, before work at 4 a.m., 

would run every single day, felt absolutely 

amazing. During this time, I was reminded 

of the first 5k that I had ever run with Bryan 

just a few short months before. The time of 

the race symbolized, I believe, the time I had 

with Bryan. 

Bryan began to pick up the pace and was 

soon out of our sight. Although I was not with 

him long, neither in life nor in the race, it was a 

very special time. Every single moment with 

Bryan was special—and is even more special to 

me now that it is in the past. Although he was 

gone only a short while after, in both the race 

and in life, he was, and still is, with me. 

The middle section of the race where 

Bryan was out of our sight was the toughest 

part of the race. Although he was not in sight, 

I knew that he was still running the race with 

me. At this point, when “side-stitches” and 

minor pains arose, I just kept charging on and 

pushing through hoping to catch a glimpse of 

Bryan somewhere. From time to time, as we 

turned corners or changed our route, I would 

catch a flash of the great man. This portion of 

the race symbolizes my life right now. Just like 

in the race, Bryan is not is sight but I know he 

is always living with me. 

There are going to be tough times in my 

life without him, and in the lives of my family, 

where we are going to have to slow down, catch 

our breath, and keep charging on just like in 

the race. From time to time, we catch small 

glimpses of Bryan in our daily lives. In times 

when I find myself on a lonely road on a long 

run I think of Bryan and I feel a small piece 

of him in me. 

The final section of the race was the finish. 

By mile-5 it was just my dad and me running 

alongside each other. At this point Bryan had 

already completed his race and was awaiting us 

at the finish line. Exhausted, I asked my dad, 

“How much farther?” “Little less than a mile!” 

he replied. As we continued on that final 

portion of the race, we turned a corner and 

saw a long straight-away with a large sign that 

said, “FINISH.” Knowing that my grandfather 

Bryan would be there, with a smile upon his 

face, to greet us at the finish, I sprinted with 

all I had left. Once I crossed the finish line 

I found Bryan who greeted me with a smile 

and a big hug! 

This portion of the race symbolizes the 

finish line of life and how I have hope and 

belief that Bryan will be there to greet me 

when my time on this earth comes to an end. 

Although Bryan crossed the finish line before 

me, it gives me something to look forward to 

when I reach the finish line myself. 

So as I lie astonished at the realization that 

this race was a metaphor of my life with Bryan 

given to me by the Almighty Father above, I 

felt immense joy that God had finally opened 

my eyes at how symbolic that Crescent City 

Classic 10k was in my life. I now am assured 

that, although there may be tough times in life, 

I will be able to continue on by the motivation 

of glimpses of Bryan in my life. Finally, I know 

that when I turn the final corner in my life and 

I see the “Finish Line” that I can be reassured 

that my grandfather Bryan will be there to 

greet me in my eternal home with my Savior, 

Jesus Christ.” 

As I sat on my bed, with tears pooling in 

my eyes reading the letter to myself that I had 

saved for so many years, I was renewed with a 

sense of joy and anticipation to do what I have 

come to love in those many years since that 

10k–to RUN! Senior season of cross country 

is now upon us and I wish time would slow 

down. In this last year of running, I want to 

do just what that letter reads–to finish strong. 

I have been blessed with a wonderful high school 

running career and I am excited and expectant 

of the things that this final year will bring. 

I forever will remember the day I ran my 

first 5k after my grandfather Bryan passed 

away. It was then that I fully realized and felt 

the joy in running that he had for so many 

years. I am forever grateful for the man he 

was and that he saw a talent in me that I 

would never have recognized myself. Every 

time I toe the line this season, his memory 

and spirit will be with me. 

Knowing this, it’s going to be a great year! 

God Bless, 

Austin Bourne 

______________________________________ 

Austin is the son of Rob and Abbey Bourne. 

His sister, Ella, is becoming known for her 

cross country as well. 

26 • Winter 2018


28 • Winter 2018 

Homecoming 

Brandon High School 

September 21


30 • Winter 2018

Happy Holidays 

Call us today to schedule your 2019 financial investment review! 

Chas Gualano 

First Vice President 

Financial Consultant 

601.825.1885 

Andrew Comans 

Financial Consultant 

601.825.1883 

Securities offered through LPL Financial, member FINRA/SIPC. Insurance products offered through LPL Financial or its licensed affiliates. Trustmark Financial Services 

is a division of Trustmark Tailored Wealth, which is a division of Trustmark National Bank. Trustmark Financial Services and Trustmark National Bank are not registered 

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Rankin Performing Arts 

announces registration for 

spring semester of Stage Kids! 

Rehearsals begin in January. 

Summer Musical Theatre Camp 

July 8-12 & 15-19 

Musical - Saturday, July 20 

VOCAL TRAINING 

CHOREOGRAPHY 

MUSICAL THEATRE 


32 • Winter 2018


34 • Winter 2018

The 

Michael 

GUEST 

Family 


It’s always a delight to see our 

hometown gain noteworthy local, 

state, and national representation. 

One of our latest “noteworthies” 

is Brandon resident and former 

Rankin County District Attorney, 

Michael Guest, who was just 

elected to the United States 

House of Representatives. 

The Guest family is about to embark upon a unique 

journey–far from what they have been accustomed. 

Their expanding schedule already has a Washington 

orientation on the calendar, so we requested a brief visit 

so Haley and Michael could answer a few questions 

our readers would find interesting. 


What’s one special memory that stands 

≤. 

out during your time campaigning? 

Michael - The memory that stands out the most to me is 

standing on the stage with my family at Mudbugs on election 

night. Looking out at the people in attendance, I saw a room 

filled with friends and family who had spent the last ten 

months working alongside us. We have been blessed to 

have the support of our community, and it was a humbling 

experience to have those that worked so hard for us to be 

able to share in our celebration. 

Haley – There are so many memories that I will cherish, but 

one thing that stands out the most is meeting all the people 

who care about their communities and families. Everywhere 

we went, we were always welcomed by people who truly care 

for an issue facing their town or community. We have some of 

the most wonderful people in the world living in our state and 

the opportunity to meet them and spend time with them was 

a very special opportunity. 

What was the most difficult part of 

≤. 

campaigning? 

Michael - The most difficult part of the campaign was the 

time I had to spend away from home as we traveled across the 

congressional district. I am extremely grateful to my family for 

their dedication, hard work, and sacrifice. 

Haley - That’s a hard question to answer. When we were 

tired, Michael and I tried to remind ourselves that this was a 

part of God’s plan. That made it all worth it. Our desire was to 

be faithful to His will each and every day. 

Who has been your role model and why? 

≤. 

Michael - I have had many outstanding role models throughout 

my life. When I was a child, my parents always set an 

example of how to live a life that would bring honor to our 

Heavenly Father. I believe this has had a profound impact on 

the way I’ve lived my life, raised two boys with my wife, and 

served the people of Madison and Rankin Counties as their 

district attorney. During our campaign, I always tried to model 

our campaign after our current congressman – Gregg Harper. 

Gregg has served our state and nation well during his ten years 

in office, and he has always been a man of honor and integrity. 

What are your plans for how you’ll 

≤. 

divide family time between Brandon 

and Washington? 

Michael - I intend to travel back and forth to Washington, 

but my family will remain in Brandon. Brandon has always 

been and always will be our home, and I cannot imagine our 

children growing up anywhere else. Washington is where 

I’ll go to work and Brandon is where I’ll keep my home. 

What do you think the biggest adjustment 

≤. 

to this political arena will be? 

Michael - I believe that my experience as district attorney, 

serving the people of Mississippi, has prepared me to 

represent our state in Congress. I know that challenges lie 

ahead as I move into a new position, but I am confident that 

if I surround myself with an experienced staff then I will 

quickly be able to transition into my role as an effective 

congressman on behalf of the people of Mississippi. 

Was there a particular Bible verse that 

≤. 

you claimed or were motivated by during 

your campaign? 

Michael - Throughout the campaign I have often reflected 

on Jeremiah 29:11. “For I know the plans I have for you declares 

the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to 

give you hope and a future.” This verse would remind me that 

God was in control and that His will for my life would prevail. 

Haley - The Bible verse that always brought me encouragement 

was Romans 8:28, “And we know that in all things God 

works for the good of those who love Him, who have been 

called according to His purpose.” 

36 • Winter 2018

Who’s a Washington politician that you look forward 

≤. 

to meeting? 

Michael - I look forward to meeting Vice-President Mike Pence. I’ve read 

numerous articles about his faith and the relationship he has with our Lord. 

The vice-president has been able to achieve the second most powerful position 

in our government while never losing or compromising his principals, faith, 

or integrity. 

How do you, as one family, hope to make a difference 

≤. 

in Washington? 

Michael - Before we ever started this campaign, we prayed as a family that 

we would be stronger because of this opportunity to serve the people of 

Mississippi. Our goal remains the same – to represent the people of 

Mississippi in a way that brings honor and glory to our Heavenly Father 

while growing the bonds that unite us as a family. l 


38 • Winter 2018 

Brandon Middle School 

Special Needs 

CARNIVAL 

November 15


40 • Winter 2018 

CITY OF BRANDON 

Veterans Day 

BREAKFAST 

NOVEMBER 9 • BRANDON MUNICIPAL COMPLEX


42 • Winter 2016


Hudson McCall 

I loved when the 

Florida Gators 

beat State! 

Mary Martin Herndon 

I have had fun making new 

friends this year. 

James Register 

I had the best time 

riding a jet ski 

at full speed. 

What is your favorite thing that 

has happened so far this year? 

Ashley Scott 

My favorite thing 

is when soccer 

season started. 

I love soccer! 

Carson Baughman 

My favorite thing was 

getting to go to Kids Art 

at school. AND I made 

the softball team! 

Bryson Lowrey 

Getting $775 

for my birthday 

(If you include 

giftcards). 

Best birthday ever!! 

44 • Winter 2018

Rhyan Jones 

It was so much fun 

going on vacation 

with my family 

to Destin, Florida. 

Jerry Stubbs 

I am so glad I’m in Mrs. Farmer 

and Mrs. Morgan’s classes. 

Millie Mckay 

Making new friends 

and still being friends 

with my old ones. 

A , Zari Smith 

My family road trip 

to Chicago . 

Gunner Enis 

I was in a baseball tournament 

and we were down 6-2. But then 

we came back and won 7-6. 

Kaylin Shaver 

My classroom’s 

Halloween party was 

the best. Everyone 

wore orange! 

Jaiden Peterson 

I went to the arcade 

and raced on a 

motorcycle game. 

It was really fun. 

Boe Nope 

I scored a soccer goal at recess. 

I hit the ball off of my head 

and it went into the goal. 

It was so awesome. 

Aniya Mcclain 

I love making new 

friends at school. 


Richard Kirby, DVM 

ard Kirby, DVM 

Richard Kirby, DVM 

Daniel Plunkett, DVM 



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VISIT STEAKESCAPE.COM TO SIGN UP FOR MORE SPECIAL OFFERS! 

Rankin Performing Arts 

announces registration for 

spring semester of Stage Kids! 

Rehearsals begin in January. 

Summer Musical Theatre Camp 

July 8-12 & 15-19 

Musical - Saturday, July 20 

VOCAL TRAINING • CHOREOGRAPHY • MUSICAL THEATRE 

46 • Winter 2018

WOMEN 

ON THE 

MOVE 

When it comes to economic 

impact, women are all business. 

Nationally, roughly 36 percent of 

all businesses are women-owned– 

and in Brandon, some of our 

most recognizable businesses are 

owned by female entrepreneurs. 

We had the opportunity to visit 

with several of them and find out 

more about them, what some of 

their greatest takeaways were, 

and to celebrate their success... 


Jessica Phillips 

O! How Cute Gifts & More 

What has been the most rewarding part of owning your 

own business? 

It has allowed me to determine my own schedule. 

Having two children with very hectic schedules is hard. 

But I’m able to attend most events and pivotal moments 

in their lives. 

Who or what inspired you to be a business owner? 

Simple. God. When we started O! How Cute out of the 

back of my car, it was only as a hobby to offset my staying 

at home with my daughter. But God had a different plan 

and placed people and events in our lives that allowed us 

to grow–and here we are, thirteen years later. 

What has been your biggest hurdle as the business owner? 

As a young female attending meetings, markets and 

other events during my early years, respect was hard to 

gain. I don’t find this happening as often now, but it was 

a big hurdle in the beginning. 

If you could take one educational course since owning your 

own business, what would it be? 

Business finance! I had no idea how much paperwork 

would be involved. As the sole person responsible for all 

of the financials, having a business finance course would 

have been very useful. 

What’s your best advice to women considering going into 

their own business? 

If you’re doing it because you think, “it’ll be fun,” or 

because, “I’ll get to go to market,” don’t do it! Owning a 

successful business requires 100% dedication. There are 

no days off. There are no sick days. There is no one else 

to blame or fix things when all others have tried. If you 

understand all of this going in, your chances of success 

are greater. 

What part of your job do you wish you could avoid? 

Clerical work. I detest employee scheduling and payroll. 

What is your favorite mode of relaxation after a day’s work? 

Sitting down with my children and directing my 

attention solely on them is a nice retreat. 

48 • Winter 2018

Diane Jernigan 

Vintiques 


own business? 

When my husband and I began this journey, we prayed 

God would use us in some small way to share His love and 

to be an encourager to others. We want our customers to 

forget what challenges they may be experiencing and 

experience a peaceful, calm environment and know that we 

love and appreciate them as our patrons and our friends. 


Adair and I felt it was best for me to be home with our 

children while they were young, so we began looking for 

ways to make extra money from home to supplement our 

income. But it’s my parents that are the inspiration for this 

venture. They loved antique cars, furniture, and novelties, 

so “treasure hunting” was in my blood from an early age. 

This business gives me the opportunity to “treasure hunt” 

for vintage items, as well as offer new merchandise for 

customers who are interested in more modern items. 


Getting our doors open for business was probably the 

biggest hurdle. 

If you could take one educational course since owning 

your own business, what would it be? 

Communication is key to a successful life and business. 

It is vital, day to day, as we converse with customers, other 

merchants, and everyone in our life. In regards to technology, 

the statement “Everyone communicates, few connect” is 

so true. 

What’s your best advice to women considering 

going into their own business? 

Go for it! It is somewhat challenging to take that leap of 

faith not knowing what will occur or if your business will be 

successful. However, not taking that leap, you will never 

know how great you could have been as an entrepreneur. 

You can do it! 


This is an easy one for sure….paperwork! 


Getting home at night and spending time with my husband 

is the highlight of my day. I enjoy relaxing by reading, 

painting or playing the piano, all of which I thoroughly 

enjoy. 


Pamela Lantrip 

Downtown Giftery 


own business? 

Serving my customers. 


The desire to have a business where I could encourage, 

inspire, and serve others in our community. 


Contacting merchants and filling out applications to 

sell their products. 



Learning computer skills. 



Be sure it’s a business you feel passionate about and 

always have a servant’s heart. 


Paperwork. 


Doing nothing! Actually, I like to just sit back for a 

little while, prop my feet up and thank God for my 

day–good or bad. 

50 • Winter 2018

Sara Leach 

DP Studio 


own business? 

When a client, with tears in her eyes, tells me how much 

she loves the studio and what it has given her. This studio 

is helping bring women back to life in many ways. I love the 

growth of confidence in the way our clients execute a Pilates 

position and in the way they carry themselves. This is super 

rewarding to see! Pilates gives someone a new way of living 

and makes living more enjoyable. 


I saw an opportunity to begin a business of Pilates here in 

Brandon because there wasn’t one. I see people walking 

around all the time with poor body positions and I want to 

truly help them. People need to know there is a solution to 

some of their pain. 


Time management—and stepping into the business world 

when all I have ever known is exercise. Presently, being a 

mom of three young children is not easy when you are 

running a business. 



A financial planning class. 



Know your limits. Start small but dream big. Don’t take 

on more than you can handle. I would tell someone that 

being a mom boss is great, but hard–very hard. I have 

learned, too, that sometimes you can’t take it personally. 

It’s business. However, I strive to get personal and truly 

care about each one of my clients. . 


Payroll and taxes. However, I do have a wonderful CPA 

and he keeps me straight. 

What is your favorite mode of relaxation 

after a day’s work? 

Enjoying a warm cup of coffee and rocking my newborn 

on the porch. It’s hard to relax these days, but rare moments 

do arrive so I embrace them. 


Olivia Barrett 

LIV the Salon 

What has been the most rewarding part 

of owning your own business? 

Seeing my team transform so many heads of hair! It’s 

awesome to see someone’s confidence change in just one 

hair appointment. 


I’ve had many strong, independent, female mentors 

along my hair journey. Thanks to them, they have given 

me drive and determination to get where I am today. 


Being a girl-boss can be hard. Between running a salon, 

keeping up with trends, employees, social media, clients, 

etc., it’s hard to have down time. I’ve learned it’s important 

to give yourself a break, sometimes. 

If you could take one educational course since 

owning your own business, what would it be? 

My dream is to attend the Vidal Sassoon Academy. 

It’s full of top notch classes to further my education 

and that of my team’s. 



You can do this! Always improve. Stay true to who you 

are and let it show through your business. 


Any negativity. I wish customers would reach out to 

management for any issues they might have. Most people 

are quick to jump onto Facebook and rant instead. 

People don’t realize things like this can actually harm 

businesses. Support local and help them improve. 


Spending time with my husband and fur babies, catching 

up with my shows, listening to music and singing. 

52 • Winter 2018

London May 

Tootsie Trends 

What has been the most rewarding part of owning 

your own business? 

The most rewarding part has been turning my customer 

relationships into friendships. I strive to make each person 

feel welcomed and more than just a customer. 


My mother-in-law inspired me to become a business owner. 

She started the business and within a few months she 

passed it down to me. 


My biggest hurdle, honestly, is being a business owner, a 

full-time nursing student, and a mom. I feel like I never 

have a moment to relax. I always have something to 

do—but I wouldn’t have it any other way. 



Accounting! 



Make sure you have a strong support system. I couldn’t 

have made my business what it is today without tons of 

encouraging words and support. Also, never give up on 

your dreams and always believe in yourself. 


Honestly, I wish I didn’t have to correct my workers when 

needed, which isn’t often. My staff is awesome! 


When I don’t have to come home and study, chart, or do 

homework (which is almost every day), I love to catch up on 

my TV shows or watch a kid’s movie with my little boy. 


Ashley Purvis 

Southern Raised 

What has been the most rewarding part of 

owning your own business? 

Getting to meet all our customers! I have loved getting 

to know the people of our great community! 


My dad, James Self, has owned his own business since I 

was little. He is such an inspiration to me. My husband, 

Jake Purvis, has been a big supporter and inspiration, 

too. He and his business partners took this old building 

we are in and made it what it is today. 


Budget–and being a people pleaser. It would take 

millions of dollars to please everyone who walked into 

Southern Raised. But, we have a budget and must 

stick to it. 



Finance! Being a communication major, I didn’t have to 

do much in the finance department. Luckily, I have a 

husband that is good with numbers. 

What’s your best advice to women considering going into their 

own business? 

Make sure you have a great support system. Without my 

family and friends, this store would be nothing. And a 

great manager if you can’t be there all the time. My store 

would be nothing without Mrs. Pam! 


There isn’t too much that I don’t like about owning 

Southern Raised. Everything is a learning experience. 

So I’d rather just face it head on! 


Working out is my stress reliever! But being with my two 

kids, Shelby and Watts, and my husband Jake is relaxing. 

They are my happy place. 

54 • Winter 2018

Destiny Tillery 

Destiny Tillery Photography 

What has been the most rewarding part of owning 

your own business? 

I find it rewarding to positively impact both my city and 

those families that I have the honor of working with and 

serving. Additionally, the opportunity of business ownership 

enables me to be flexible enough to create time for my 

children and family. I’m also in a unique position to teach 

my children that anything is possible if you’re willing to 

work hard and love people. 


My parents and grandparents were business owners so 

creating and operating a small business was a natural 

decision. 


Wearing so many hats has been a big hurdle. Learning all 

the many facets of business was, and sometimes still is, 

quite a feat. Though my business is photography, many 

other skills are required to be a proficient photographer, 

most of which have nothing to do with photography at all. 



I’d love to take a course on psychology and how that relates 

to photography. 



Even though it is easier said than done, delegate when you 

can. Sometimes the idea of perfection slows productivity, 

but hiring someone to help do the tasks that you struggle 

with may be one of the best things you could do to save time 

and ultimately money. Lastly, if your business is something 

you want to pursue long term, set schedule boundaries and 

protect your family time fiercely. Balance is everything. 


Accounting and paperwork! 


I have children. Who with little ones relaxes after 

work? Seriously though, I do unwind and enjoy playing 

with them, reading, gardening, and cooking for my family. 


Debbie Hartung 

042 Cafe 


own business? 

Being able to take care of my family on my own. 


My mom encouraged me start my catering business 33 

years ago. She always made holidays special and I wanted 

to share that with others. 


Government…taxes, rules, all the hurdles you have to 

jump—and competing with national chains. 



Taxes and accounting. 



Make certain there is a market for what you want to 

sell–today and in the future. And how much time are 

you willing to put into owning your own business? 


Firing and hiring. I really don’t like either. 


Hot tub and a glass of something relaxing. 

56 • Winter 2018

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Brandon Presbyterian 

Est. 1851 

Still captivated 

by the light of Christ 

Candlelight Service 

CHRISTMAS EVE AT 5 PM 

209 South College Street 

www.brandonpres.com 

58 • Winter 2018


Checksfor 

Rouse 

60 • Winter 2018

Checks for Rouse is our only fundraiser and the PTO 

operates it instead of paying an outside company so 

more money stays in our school. The top incentive for 

kids bringing in $150+ was Breakfast with Bully with 

individual pictures to be sent home and Silly String the 

principals. Our fundraiser raised just over $37,000! 

One of the projects the PTO is using the fundraiser money 

for is to provide a computer for each class to be used 

as a center and allow each child to have access to it 

for educational growth. Each classroom was presented 

with a new Chromebook by PTO and principals. 


Everything’s 

Coming Up 

Suzanne Ross & Charla Jordan 

When we recall Christmas past, 

we usually find that the simplest 

things give off the greatest glow 

of happiness. – Bob Hope 

Each December the Brandon Garden Club 

celebrates the essence of Christmas with its 

Deck the Halls decorations at Brandon Municipal 

Center and Hometown Brandon article. Occasionally, 

there is writer’s block, and creativity packs a 

bag and leaves town with summer. This was one 

of those years, but a spur-of-the-moment decision 

to invite Brandon Garden Club members to a 

gathering to discuss their favorite holiday 

ornament opened a door to Christmas magic. 

A diverse group of women who might not be 

acquainted, much less friends if not for a love of 

flowers and gardening, shared memories of 

Christmas and displayed favorite ornaments both 

passed down through generations and recently 

acquired. Both handmade and purchased, the 

ornaments ran the gamut with Santas, angels, and 

crosses leading the list. As ornaments were 

displayed and memories shared, to paraphrase 

Laura Ingalls Wilder, “Our hearts were opened 

with memories of family, and we are better for 

having, in spirit, become a child again during this 

Christmas season.” 

In this spirit of Christmas, each owner hung 

their ornament on a small tree and gave its 

history. Special and heirloom ornaments are 

not always silver and crystal, as those shown by 

Charlene Duchie proved. The late 1800s to early 

1900s, treasures from her husband Bill’s family 

were a much-loved felt snowman and Santa plus 

a Christmas card given to his grandmother by a 

favorite teacher. And as special as these are, the 

one Charlene loves the best is a Polish hand-crafted 

Komozja Vatican jeweled cross that she and Bill 

purchased to honor Bill’s Polish heritage. 

Childlike and detailed handmade ornaments 

elicited positive Christmas memories. Two of 

Suzanne Ross’s were ones made by her daughter 

Allison in pre-school and her son Michael in fifth 

grade. Ann Wentz brought a knitted stocking 

made by her music teacher in McComb 46 years 

ago and a special angel ornament loved by her 

husband. Shelly Thornburg’s contributions were 

too large to hang on the tree. The knitted, rotund 

Santa and snowman brought smiles to everyone’s 

faces as they were placed under the tree. 

Another shared tradition is giving Christmas 

ornaments to children and grandchildren to be 

passed along to them for their own home when 

they reach adulthood. This pass-along tradition 

took a different twist with an angel ornament 

from Marty Vinson’s family. When her son Cris 

was six years old, he accompanied Marty on a 

shopping trip to the Barry Patch in Crossgates. 

The owner was unpacking angels made by a lady 

in Baton Rouge. As she and Marty “oohed and 

aahed” over them, Cris asked to buy one for their 

tree. Marty explained that they already had an 

angel. As they left the store an unhappy Cris 

asked his mother to go back and buy an angel, 

saying he would “take the money from his savings 

account” to pay her back. Long story short, an 

angel was purchased, graced the Mike Vinson 

family tree for many years, and now resides with 

Cris Vinson and his family. 

Brandon Garden Club members shared their favorite ornaments and their special stories. 

L-R: Charla Jordan, Suzanne Ross, Charlene Duchie, RoseMarie Klock, Sandy Parish, Shelly Thornburg, Marion McKee, Ann Wentz, and Marty Vinson. 

62 • Winter 2018

Regardless of age or background there are 

ornaments that remind us of friends and family 

members who now share Christmas with us only 

in our hearts. A photo ornament of Sandy Parish’s 

parents, Katherine and Jack Bailey, brings loving 

memories of Christmases past for Sandy and her 

family as they continue to honor them on Christ’s 

birthday. Marion McKee’s special ornament 

contained mementos of a grandchild. Charla 

Jordan and Suzanne Ross have several duplicate 

ornaments from trips with their special friend 

Marie Lodes. Their 2007 “I’m Dreaming of Lights 

Back on Broadway” ornaments were purchased in 

New York on an extremely cold night. They had 

tickets to Broadway shows, but the Broadway 

Stagehands Strike left them freezing under an air 

conditioning vent at an Off-Broadway theater. It 

was colder inside than out, but the friends had a 

great time. 

Dreams of opulent Christmas trees where 

everything matches may fit your fantasies, but not 

for RoseMarie Klock. When her family moved 

from New England, her ornaments were lost in the 

move. The next Christmas RoseMarie purchased 

new ornaments for the new home, but it wasn’t 

the same. Last year she received an ornament in a 

gift exchange. She now has new friends and the 

beginnings of a new special ornament collection. 

“Christmas is not a time or a season but a 

state of mind. To cherish peace and goodwill, to 

be plenteous in mercy, is to have the real spirit of 

Christmas. If we think on these things, there will 

be born in us a Savior and over us will shine a star 

sending its gleam of hope to the world.” Calvin 

Coolidge (1872-1933) l 

_________________________________________________________ 

For information about Brandon Garden Club 

visit www.thebrandongardenclub.com. 

BGC is federated with The Garden Clubs of 

Mississippi, Inc. and National Garden Clubs, Inc. 


H O M E T O W N 

Christmas 

Market 

D E C E M B E R 

7 

- 8 

Friday, December 7th • 12noon-9pm 

Saturday, December 8th • 8am-2pm 

The Vault venue 

202 N. College st. • Brandon, MS 

...see you around toun 

64 • Winter 2018


The 

Time 

COIN 


The air wreaked of a 

noxious odor as the foul 

creatures slinked into the 

dimly lit room. 

“You know why I’ve called this 

meeting,” Maelstrom bellowed as he 

shouted for everyone’s attention. 

“THAT season is rapidly approaching, 

so I’m checking on everyone’s plans 

and preparations. It’s a prime holiday. 

There are no limits to what we must 

do to rob it of its joy and celebration. 

Who wants to be first?” 

“I’ll go,” Busyness boomed from the 

corner. “The calendar is our #1 asset, 

and I’m prepared to fill every waking 

moment with parties, banquets, Sunday 

School socials, cantatas, musicals, movies, 

nativity scenes – everything that people 

who believe and don’t believe in the 

Christmas season will want to schedule. 

It’s too good to be true; we just help 

them cram their calendars with all those 

things they call good, and in a smoking 

streak the month will be gone, and they 

will have been too busy to actually enjoy 

any of it!” Busyness smirked with pride. 

“That’s not enough,” another voice 

squealed. All eyes turned to Chaos who 

straightened from his slumping posture. 

“I’ve got my crew assigned to the traffic 

and crowds. Both will be everywhere! 

Stress, we haven’t heard from you, 

but I know how you’ll have the shoppers 

in a panic mode, searching to fill their 

Christmas gift list. We add that to the 

chaos of traffic jams and long lines and 

WHAM! It’s the perfect storm and a 

snuffing out of the Christmas spirit. 

Shrieks filled the room as the sinister 

set announced their plans. “Don’t forget 

me,” Nostalgia whispered. The room 

quickly turned to his cloaked figure. 

“It may be a joyful season for some, 

but many struggle with the heaviness 

that Loneliness brings and his reminders 

of past Christmases. It’s the easiest of 

times to shroud the lonely and the sad 

with memories.” 

Greed interrupted Maelstrom just 

before he adjourned. “I’ll do what I can. 

A lot of the celebrators get generous 

with their benevolent giving, but it’s 

also a prime time for Selfishness to 

exploit shoppers. 

“Good plans! Now go to work,” 

Maelstrom roared as the conniving 

crew exited to inflict their tactics. 

“What’s that music I hear?” 

Maelstrom halted in alarm. “Why – 

I think it’s ‘Silent Night,’ one of those 

Christmas carols the celebrators sing,” 

Chaos answered. 

“Yes, that’s it, and look who’s leading it 

– PEACE! Hurry, we’re all doomed if 

He gets to the people first.” ● 

66 • Winter 2018

247 Industrial Drive North Madison, Mississippi 39110 

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

www.hederman.com 


This will always be my go-to hospital. 

When Amy Marler found out a family member was having breathing issues and nausea, she first thought it was food 

poisoning. But with symptoms worsening, she immediately decided to rush her loved one to the Merit Health Rankin 

emergency room. Upon arrival they were quickly triaged and within a few minutes a physician was in their room 

assessing the situation. After careful observation and a thorough treatment plan, the ER physician discharged them 

home and the patient made a complete recovery. Amy said, “My first instinct was to go to the Merit Health Rankin 

ER and I’m so glad we did. We were treated with compassion and a sense of urgency that let us know we were 

important to them. I’m so thankful to have Merit Health Rankin in our community.” 

Quick, personalized ER care. 

350 Crossgates Blvd. 


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Brandon1218web

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