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Women

of Business

Happy

Semiquincentennial,

Y’all!

Join us for a celebration that’s as big and wonderful

as the word “Semiquincentennial,” itself. Mississippi’s

commemoration of our nation’s 250th birthday promises

a year filled with events, exhibits, programs, and more

celebrating our state’s contributions to America’s story

through culture, storytelling, the arts, and our shared

history. Get plugged in at America250.ms.

Elvis Presley Homecoming Statue, Tupelo

UMMC is building a state-of-the-art, 250,000 square-foot cancer

center that will unite care, research and clinical trials in one place.

Visit abouttime.ms to learn more and donate.

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1 LOCATION

1685 High Street

Jackson, MS 39202

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6 • JULY 2026

Hometown MADISON • 7

8 • JULY 2026

FROM OUR

CONSULTING EDITOR

Every July, we pause to celebrate the birth of our nation and the freedoms that define us.

This year feels especially meaningful as America reaches its

250th birthday. For this issue, we wanted to look at what that

milestone truly means — not just through history, but through

the people whose lives tell the story of this country.

Inside, you’ll meet four local members of our armed services

who represent dedication, sacrifice, and a commitment to

something bigger than themselves. Their stories remind us that

service comes in many forms, and that the strength of a

community is often found in the people quietly doing the work.

We’re also honored to share the story of Frank Phann, whose

journey from escaping Cambodia’s Khmer Rouge regime to

building a life in Madison is one of the most profound stories

we’ve ever told. His story is a reminder of resilience, hope, and

the incredible opportunities this country can offer.

This issue also celebrates eight women in business — something

especially close to our hearts. As a woman-led business ourselves,

we understand the determination, long hours, creativity, and

courage it takes to build something meaningful. The women

featured here are making an impact every day, and we are

proud to share their stories.

At the heart of Hometown Madison has always been the

people who make this place special. Happy Independence Day,

and thank you for allowing us access to your lives.

Women in Business cover photo taken at The Velveteen Venue

PUBLISHER & EDITOR

Tahya Dobbs

HOMETOWN STAFF

CFO

Kevin Dobbs

CONSULTING EDITOR

Mary Ann Kirby

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Barbie Bassett

IN THIS ISSUE

Reader Spotlight 13

The Way We Were 16

Hometown Family 20

The Living Water 28

Love Arrived Three Doors Down 34

Women of Business 38

250 Years of Duty & Honor 59

Hometown Harmonies 68

The CatchThat Matters Most 78

Welcome to Flora 86

ACCOUNT

EXECUTIVE

Amy Forsyth

ADVERTISING

& CONTENT

Amanda Livingston

ADMINISTRATIVE

ASSISTANT

Susan Wolgamott

MARKETING

MANAGER

Emma Allen

...see you around town.

LAYOUT DESIGN

Daniel Thomas

3dt

STAFF

PHOTOGRAPHER

Othel Anding

STAFF

ASSISTANT

Debby Francis

CONTENT MANAGER /

PHOTOGRAPHER

Karley Woods

For subscription information visit HTMags.com or contact us at info@HTMags.com / 601.706.4059 / 200 Felicity Street / Brandon, MS 39042 B HometownMadisonMagazine.

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.


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Ashley

SMITH

Why did you decide to make Madison

your home?

When our children were little, we were

looking for a great community to raise our

kids and wanted to be closer to our family.

Madison offered both, and it has felt like

home ever since.

How long have you lived in Madison

County?

We’ve called Madison County home for

nearly 20 years. We spent 10 years on

Yandell Road and have now been on

Stribling for more than eight.

Tell us about your family.

My husband, Derrick, and I met while we

were students at Southern Miss through the

Baptist Student Union. We’ve been married

for 26 years and are proud parents to a son

and daughter, both of whom are currently

students at State.

What is your favorite memory of living

in Madison?

I loved watching my son compete in Madison

County Schools robotics competitions

and cheering on my daughter as she played

softball in the local rec league. Those

experiences created lasting memories for

our family.

What is one of your favorite places

to eat in Madison?

One of our favorite spots is El Ranchito.

It’s our go-to restaurant, especially after

church, even when it seems like half our

church family ends up there too! The food is

great, and the fellowship makes it even better.

What are some fun things to do in

Madison County on the weekends?

One of our family’s favorites is Topgolf.

It’s a fun way to spend time together.

What do you enjoy doing in your

spare time?

I love spending time with my family and

getting lost in a good book.

What’s on your bucket list?

At the top of my list is attending Trooping

the Colour in London. As an avid royal

watcher, that would be my dream come true!

Who is someone you admire and why?

I have always admired my mom. She is

hardworking, deeply faithful, and one of the

most generous people I know. She has been

a wonderful example to me, and I hope to

reflect those same qualities in my own life.

Where do you see yourself in ten years?

I’m a counselor in private practice here in

Madison, and I love what I do! My hope is

that I’ll still be serving clients and making

a difference in people’s lives for many years

to come.

What is your favorite childhood memory?

Riding my bike from my neighborhood to the

local swimming pool where summer

days were filled with sunshine and friends.

Looking back, it was such a simple time, and

those memories still make me smile.

Give us one encouraging quote.

“Let us hold fast the confession of our hope

without wavering, for He who promised is

faithful.” — Hebrews 10:23


14 • JULY 2026

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Donna & Dennis Markle

Karley Woods

It was 1975. Dennis Markle was a young engineer who had recently

moved to Mississippi from Arizona by way of Pennsylvania. Donna, a

Mississippi native from Winona, had just begun her career. Through

mutual friends, their paths crossed in Vicksburg. “She caught my eye,”

Dennis said.

Donna remembers things a little differently. “Not that day,” she

laughed. At first, he was the Yankee in the friend group, different from

the Mississippi boys she had always known. For nearly a year, they spent

time around the same circle of friends, learning each other’s character

before romance ever entered the picture.

That foundation would become one of the defining strengths

of their marriage. “We were very good friends already at that point,”

Donna said. “We had other friends all around us and we didn’t have

to be anything but us.”

When Dennis finally worked up the courage to ask Donna on a

date, the evening almost ended before it began. Donna was feeling ill

but decided to go anyway. By the end of dinner, she was running a

fever and would eventually be hospitalized with strep throat.

Looking back, Dennis laughs at the memory. “I knew she must have

wanted to go on the date pretty much if she was that sick and went out,”

he said. Even before that first date, Dennis had left Valentine’s candy

at Donna’s door with a note signed with his name. Though naturally

introverted, he knew there was something special about her.

“I was a confirmed bachelor,” Dennis said. “But when I met Miss

Donna, it was like, okay, that’s not going to work anymore.” About a year

after they began dating, the couple traveled to Pennsylvania so Donna

could meet Dennis’ family. One evening, sitting in his aunt and uncle’s

living room, Dennis asked a simple question that would change both of

their lives.

“I just asked her if she wanted to spend the rest of her life with me,”

he said. Donna didn’t hesitate. “I immediately said yes.” On March 13,

1977, they were married in the small one-room church where Donna

had grown up. Hayes Creek Baptist Church, founded in 1837, was

packed with family and friends. Afterward, everyone gathered at her

parents’ home for a reception. “It was just a good day,” Donna recalled.

Marriage quickly gave way to building a life together. Dennis continued

his work with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers while Donna spent

three decades serving as a school librarian. Four years after saying “I do,”

they welcomed their first son, Russell. A second son, Dustin,

followed a few years later.

Parenthood changed everything. “Our focus went from us to them

and raising them well,” Dennis said. Like many young parents, they

learned as they went. There was no manual for raising children, only

faith, perseverance, and a shared desire to build a strong family. Their

home soon became filled with the energy of two redheaded boys, a

detail that prompted plenty of questions from curious friends and

16 • JULY 2026

“I just asked her

if she wanted

to spend the

rest of her life

with me.”

neighbors. “People always asked where the red hair came from,” Dennis

said. “We just told them we paid extra.” Beneath the laughter, however,

was a deeper commitment. The Markles wanted their children to grow

up knowing the same faith that had become central to their own

marriage.

Although Donna had grown up in church, Dennis describes his faith

journey as one that continued to deepen after they married. Raised

Methodist, he made his profession of faith and was baptized at First

Baptist Church Vicksburg in 1976. Looking back, he sees faith not as

a single moment, but as a lifelong process. “It’s been continual growth

even to this point today,” Dennis said. “It’s a work in progress.”

The couple spent nearly four decades at First Baptist Vicksburg,

where they formed lifelong friendships and found the support system

that carried them through life’s joys and challenges. Their church family

celebrated births, walked alongside them through difficult seasons,

and helped shape the foundation on which they raised their children.

“The church family is your support group outside of your blood kin,”

Dennis said. “It’s very important.”

Like every marriage that spans half a century, theirs was not without

challenges. Their youngest son was born with a spinal condition that

eventually required surgery when he was 10 years old. Years later,

Donna faced a melanoma diagnosis that brought another season of

uncertainty. There were also the everyday struggles that come with

balancing careers, raising children, and learning how to grow together

rather than apart. Looking back, Dennis believes those experiences

helped clarify what mattered most. “The priorities in life were faith

and family,” he said.

Those priorities continue to define the Markles today. Their two

sons are now raising families of their own, and the couple enjoys life

as grandparents to two grandsons and two granddaughters.

Today, the Markles are settled in Madison, a move they made more

than a decade ago after one of their sons told them he wanted them to

be a bigger part of their grandson’s life. The decision was made quickly.

Their house sold within days, and before long they had started a new

chapter closer to family.

As they look toward their 50th wedding anniversary next March,

neither points to a secret formula for lasting love. Instead, they talk

about flexibility, commitment, forgiveness, friendship. They talk about

choosing one another when life is easy and when it is hard. They talk

about faith.

Nearly five decades after a young engineer from Arizona noticed

a Mississippi girl among a circle of friends, the qualities that first

sustained their relationship continue to hold it together.

The friendship came first. The love followed. And through every

season since, they have continued making the same choice they made

all those years ago—to walk through life side by side.


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20 • JULY 2026

the Hornbacks


Joseph (43) Enjoys hunting, golfing, working out

and tending to his tomato garden in the summer.

Jessie (44) Enjoys tennis, shopping, and spending

time with friends and family, usually revolving

around a good drink and an even better meal.

Will (22) Serves our country as an SPC in the 82nd

Airborne Division of the U.S. Army. In his free time,

he enjoys playing video games, going out with friends,

and spending time with his fiancé, Brianna.

Margie(14) Attends MRA where she is a member

of the Magic dance team, the JV tennis team, and

the yearbook staff. She also enjoys reading, art and

hanging out with her friends.

Hines(10) attends MRA and enjoys playing tennis,

basketball, tumbling, hanging out with her friends

and as little downtime as possible.


How did you and your spouse meet, and howlong have you

been married?

We grew up in Yazoo City and have known each other our

entire lives, but didn’t date until after college. Our grandfathers

were close friends for a long time. Sadly, both of them passed away

before our wedding, but we know how much they would have

enjoyed seeing us end up together, and we like to think they would

have gotten a real kick out of it. We have been married for 17 years.

Do you allow time to be with your spouse for a date night?

With our schedules, we definitely do not have as many date nights

as we would like, but we do try and squeeze in a date or two, even

if its just a walk or lunch, as often as we can.

What brings you the greatest joy as a parent?

Seeing our kids, whom are all extremely different in their

strengths and passions, shine and be successful after putting in

hard work, is something that will always make us proud as parents.

Who is the financial manager in your home?

Joseph, with his banking background, is the primary financial

manager of our household. While he handles the majority of the

financial decisions, we discuss most things beforehand and make

any major decisions together.

When your children were younger, what was your discipline

philosophy?

We have always tried to keep biblical principles as our guide for

all aspects of parenting, including discipline. While we have not

always been successful, we’ve tried to discipline with love, respect,

grace, and forgiveness. Obviously, we’ve messed up plenty, and

sometimes have to ask our kids to extend those same virtues to us,

which we hope, in turn, will teach them to show those same

principles to others.

What do you see in your role as the greatest benefit to your

family?

We both believe our role as parents is to guide our kids as best we

can while we have them under our roof. We are hopeful our kids

will then go out and use the tools and foundations we’ve established

to be positive men and women leaders on whatever path

the Lord has for them.

What’s a quick go-to meal that isn’t fast food?

One of our favorite go to week night meals is an Asian bowl.

We do a protein of some sort, usually chicken or beef, with rice,

either broccoli or edamame and topped with a poached egg,

wonton strips and hot sauce.

What are your favorite things about Madison County?

We love the smalltown feel of Madison. Since we both grew up

in a small town, it has always felt like home. We love that there are

so many activities for our kids to participate in and we don’t have

to drive too far for them to do the things they love. We also love all

of the relationships we have built through our church, schools, and

work that we know will be with us for a lifetime.

22 • JULY 2026

What drives you to have the job that you have?

And what do you do for a living?

Joseph is first vice president with BankPlus corporate banking.

He enjoys building and maintaining relationships with customers

and watching their businesses grow through their partnership with

BankPlus. He is always looking to build new partnerships with new

customers in Madison County and beyond. He also loves the

relationships he has built with his coworkers.

On top of being a mom, I’m also a real estate agent with Lisa

Harvey Properties. I have always had a love for all things fashion.

Because of this passion, I’ve started a side project, JH Edit. Services

include closet editing, personal shopping, trip packing and event

styling. I truly have a love and calling for helping women feel and

look their best, from the grocery store to the gala and anything in

between.

How do you spend your summer breaks?

Our kids love going to the pool, attending local camps and church

camps, cooking out with friends, and sleeping late during the

summer. We also try to go on a vacation if our schedules allow.

What accomplishments make you proud during your time

living in Madison?

Joseph served as a deacon at Madison Heights Church. He also

volunteered with In His Steps Ministries in Canton. I’ve been an

active volunteer with the Children’s Ministry at Madison Heights

Church since 2014. I also served on the MRA Gardens Committee

in 2026.

QUESTION FOR THE CHILDREN

What’s your favorite thing to do

as a family?

Hines Go on trips.

Margie Go to the movies.

Will Go out to eat.

What’s your favorite restaurant?

Hines Plato Feliz

Margie Little Tokyo

Will Red Samurai

What’s your favorite TV show?

Hines Alexa & Katie

Margie Psych

Will Brooklyn 99


24 • JULY 2026


What does

FREEDOM

mean

you? to Addison

Alford

American citizens have

the ability to freely choose

and do as they please.

Colby Faulkner

The right to live our lives

as Americans, peacefully

and equitably with fair

rights for all.

Joel Hines

Freedom means liberty.

I can walk around and talk

to people about what we

do and have the liberty to

be able to do it and the

freedom to make friends.

Joshua Cable

To have the freedom to

choose and the freedom

to establish a business.

To be free to do what I need

to do when I want to do it,

the way I want to do it.

26 • JULY 2026

Avery Berry

Freedom means being

able to do things without

having restrictions.

Paige Bruce

Freedom is to have

the ability to live your

day-to-day life freely.

Tillie Berry

People being free

and having free will.

Sania Shaukat

Freedom is having the

independence to pursue

the things I enjoy while

supporting my family

in doing the same.

Tatum Bennett

It means being able to

do whatever you want

without any restrictions

and not really caring what

other people think.

Alan & Tara Brown

More than anything,

freedom has been, for us,

being able to live somewhere

that we could be together

and raise our two daughters.


28 • JULY 2026

Living

The

WATER

KARLEY WOODS

The man standing in front

of Frank Phann represented

everything he had spent a lifetime

trying to leave behind. Shirtless

and carrying an AK-47, he stood

in a remote Cambodian village

asking questions. Who are you?

Why are you here?

For a moment, it felt as though the past

was standing right in front of him. Men like

this were once the face of the regime that

tore apart his country. They were the reason

he had spent his childhood separated from

his mother, working in rice fields, starving

and wondering if he would survive

another day. Yet Phann had not traveled

thousands of miles to confront old wounds.

He had come to install a water well. More

importantly, he had come to share the

gospel. “I wanted them to know the love

of Christ,” he said.

It is a response that only makes sense

when viewed through the lens of Phann’s

remarkable journey. His story begins in

Cambodia, where life was ordinary until

April 1975, when the Khmer Rouge seized

control of the country. Before that day,

Phann remembers being a little boy

chasing cousins around his family’s home.

He remembers the pond his father built

and the routines of everyday life. Then,

almost overnight, everything changed.

Families were forced from their homes

and into labor camps. Cities were emptied.

Schools closed. Religion was outlawed. Men

were separated from women, and children

were separated from parents. Many were

publicly executed.

At just 6 years old, Phann witnessed his

father’s murder, was taken from his mother

and sent away to work. For the next four

years, survival became the only objective.

“There was no hope. You just tried

to live another day,” Phann said.

Like millions of Cambodians living under

the regime, he endured relentless labor,

chronic hunger and constant fear. Children

worked in the rice fields from sunrise to

sunset. Food was rationed. Disease spread

unchecked. Punishment was swift and often

brutal. Every day carried the possibility that

someone would disappear and never return.

At night, Phann cried for his mother.

He remembers the hunger most vividly.

He remembers eating whatever he could

find just to stay alive and drinking water

collected in buffalo tracks after rainstorms.

Sometimes there was no clean water at all.

Years later, those memories would become

one of the driving forces behind his

mission work.


When Vietnamese forces invaded

Cambodia in 1979 and brought an end to the

Khmer Rouge regime, Phann finally had an

opportunity to search for his family. He

returned to the place where he and his

mother had been separated years earlier,

holding onto a promise she had made before

they were taken away from one another.

Against overwhelming odds, he found her.

The reunion was bittersweet. His mother

was alive, as was one younger brother. His

other siblings had died from starvation and

disease. Together, they began a journey west

toward Thailand.

It took 10 months. Traveling on bare feet,

they crossed jungles, rivers and dangerous

stretches of land riddled with land mines.

Many of the people making the same

journey never reached the border. Phann’s

future stepfather lost much of his leg after

stepping on a mine. Others succumbed to

illness, exhaustion or drowning.

Eventually, the family arrived at a refugee

camp in Thailand, where they remained for

several years. Although they were finally

safe, Phann remembers those years as some

of the most hopeless of his life.

Everything changed again in 1985 when

his family was approved to immigrate to the

United States. They settled in Memphis,

Tennessee, joining a growing Cambodian

refugee community. It was there that Phann

encountered something entirely unfamiliar—

not Christianity itself, but Christianity lived

out through ordinary people.

Through Highland Heights Baptist Church,

he met families who invested their lives in

helping refugees adjust to life in America.

People like Steve and Ollie Meyer, Paul and

Pauline Turban and others drove families to

appointments, helped them find jobs and

welcomed strangers into their homes. They

expected nothing in return.

For Phann, their actions raised a question

he couldn’t shake. Why? Why would they

care so deeply about people they barely

30 • JULY 2026

knew? As he began attending church

regularly and reading a Bible translated into

Cambodian, he discovered the answer.

“I wanted to love my people the way they

loved us,” he said.

The love he witnessed was not rooted in

obligation. It was rooted in Christ. That

realization changed the trajectory of his life.

Over time, Phann’s faith deepened. He met

and married Dawnie, another Cambodian

refugee whose life had also been shaped by

hardship and perseverance. Together they

built a family, raised three children and

established careers in America. They attend

Broadmoor Baptist Church where their

faith continues to be central to their lives.

Yet neither forgot where they came from.

The memories of Cambodia remained

close, particularly the memories of thirst.

As opportunities arose to return on mission

trips, Phann found himself drawn to water

projects. Villages that lacked access to clean

drinking water reminded him of his own

childhood. He knew firsthand what it meant

to search desperately for something as basic

as a drink of water.

Those trips eventually led him back to

villages where reminders of Cambodia’s

painful past still lingered. It was during one

of those visits that he encountered the man

carrying the AK-47. Rather than seeing an

enemy, Phann saw someone who needed

the same hope he had found decades earlier.

The ability to view the situation through that

lens was not something he attributes to his

own strength. Instead, he points to Christ’s

example of forgiveness.

“Who am I if I love Christ

and claim Christ lives in me?

At the end of the day, I want

Jesus to say, ‘Son, you did

everything in My will and

represented Me,’” he said.


Today, many people know Phann through

A’HA, the restaurant he and Dawnie own.

What began as a single location has grown

into multiple restaurants across the metro

area. The name carries special meaning. In

Cambodian, “A’HA” means food. It also

reflects the experience he hopes customers

have when they discover something they

love on the menu.

For Phann, however, the restaurant stands

as a testament to God’s provision. In every

restaurant he and his wife own, they dedicate

10 percent of the space to a prayer wall where

customers are invited to leave prayer

requests.

As a teenager in a refugee camp, he

remembers watching a movie in which a

man roasted a bird over an open flame.

Hungry beyond words, he stared at the

screen and prayed a simple prayer.

“God, just let me have a

piece of meat in my mouth.

If I die tomorrow I’ll be

satisfied.”

Decades later, after spending his entire

career in the food industry, he still marvels

at how God answered that prayer. He often

pauses before walking into his home, taking

a moment to reflect on where life began and

where it has led.

“My roof used to be the sky,” he said. The

words are less a reflection on hardship than

a testament to the journey that followed.

For a man who once searched desperately

for food, water and hope, the greatest gift

was not survival. It was discovering the

source of the Living Water and spending

the rest of his life sharing it with others.

32 • JULY 2026


KARLEY WOODS

LOVE

arrived

3 DOORS

down

34 • JULY 2026

Not in a church pew.

Not through mutual friends.

Not during the hurried years of raising

children and building careers.

It arrived in the hallway of a retirement

community in Madison.

By the time Allen and Diana Findley met, both believed they had

already lived their great love stories. Allen, 79, had spent decades as

an optometrist. He had raised three daughters, built a career, survived

a stroke, and buried the wife he shared many years with. After a severe

infection left him hospitalized and in rehabilitation, he moved into

Sunnybrook Estates, to recover and regain his strength.

Diana, 75, had devoted 36 years to nursing as a nurse practitioner at

the VA Hospital. She had raised her daughter, Amy, watched her family

grow to include grandchildren and a great-grandchild, and experienced

the loss of three husbands, each after long marriages. She had spent years

building a life of independence and purpose.

Neither was looking for another beginning.

Allen’s sister, Lorraine, who helped care for him during his recovery,

was the first to notice. “There’s a nurse three doors down who likes

conversation and likes to go out to eat,” she told him. Those happened

to be two of Allen’s favorite things. One day, while taking a walk down

the hallway, he stopped by Diana’s open door.

Inside sat a retired nurse practitioner who could have a conversation

with anyone. A chair rested near the doorway, and before long the two

found themselves spending hours talking there.

They shared stories from lives already well lived. Together they

had weathered loss, raised children, built careers, and learned that love

was far more than romance. It was trust. It was honesty. It was having

someone to share a meal with at the end of the day. “Friendship,” Allen

said, reflecting on what he believes makes a marriage last. “Openness

and honesty,” Diana added.

Looking back, neither sees their story as a coincidence. Alan often

speaks of God’s hand throughout his life, from moments he narrowly

escaped tragedy to the circumstances that led him to Sunnybrook

Estates. Diana shares that same conviction. Both their grandmothers

even shared the same maiden name—Weber. It felt divinely orchestrated.

Together, they believe the Lord was writing a chapter neither of them

could have planned themselves.

Their relationship moved quickly, but not because they were rushing.

It was because, after everything they had experienced, they knew what

mattered. Seven months after meeting, they found themselves at the

Madison County courthouse in Canton obtaining paperwork. Someone

mentioned a local minister who could perform weddings. Diana looked

at Allen. “Do you think we ought to do this?” she asked.

He thought for a moment. “We have anything else to do today?”

The answer was no. So beneath a tree outside the courthouse, with only

a few witnesses present, Allen and Diana were married on August 21,

2025. No elaborate ceremony. No months of planning. Just two people

who had already learned that tomorrow is never promised and that

love is worth embracing when it finds you.

Today, the newlyweds spend their days much the same way they

spent the beginning of their relationship. They take drives through s

mall Mississippi towns, search for new restaurants, laugh about their

different driving styles, and plan for the Alaskan cruise that will serve

as both honeymoon and anniversary celebration.

More than anything, they enjoy simply sharing life together.

For Allen, who once arrived at Sunnybrook focused only on healing,

finding Diana was never part of the plan. For Diana, who had already

endured more loss than most people experience in a lifetime, another

marriage seemed unlikely. Yet somehow, after decades of living, loving

and grieving, both found themselves beginning again.

All because one day, love happened to be waiting three doors down.


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36 • JULY 2026


Women

OF Business

Women make up a

substantial core of our

business backbone and

we’re proud to celebrate

just a few of the thousands

of shining stars throughout

Madison County.

WEEKS REMAINING IN QUARTER 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

Monday

DAILY BIG 3 List your three most important tasks.

X

X

X

OTHER TASKS

3rd st. Market

-potatoes, lamp oil, flax

Attorneys Office, 3pm

- closing on field!

-Spinning Class

(shop for new spindle

and distaff )

- send invoices

- buy grape seed!

- donate clothes

- shelter volunteer

thursday 2pm

– Team meeting

to discuss food bank

- check wine

labels at printer!

- Friday, gym

- arm day

- Rest!

■ = TO DO ● = DELEGATE ✖ = IMPORTANT ? = QU

42

38 • JULY 2026

6

7

- buy coffee

8

- call Lisa!

9

10

- make deposits

- mail payments

11

12

- pick up treats

– send flowers

to Mom

1

2

- Stevens

birthday gift

3

4

– Schedule

Assistant

interviews

5

6

- End of Year

Reports Due

8

- Lunch

with Tracey

-

NOTES

“She seeks wool and flax,

and works with willing hands.

She is like the ships of the merchant;

she brings her food from afar.

She rises while it is yet night and

provides food for her household

and portions for her maidens.

She considers a field and buys it;

with the fruit of her hands she

plants a vineyard.

She dresses herself with strength

and makes her arms strong.

She perceives that her merchandise

is profitable.

Her lamp does not go out at night.

She puts her hands to the distaff,

and her hands hold the spindle.

She opens her hand to the poor and

reaches out her hands to the needy.”

proverbs 31:3-20

43

ESTION


Elisha Turner

Few business owners can point to a single

moment that changed the direction of their

lives. But for some, that moment is impossible to

forget. Elisha Turner never expected a hospital

intensive care unit to become the place where

her future came into focus.

After nearly losing her life, Elisha found

herself reflecting on what truly mattered. While

recovering, she heard a message that would stay

with her long after she left the hospital. “I heard

a video that said, ‘It’ll be a waste of time here

on earth to allow everyone to use you but

God,’” Turner said the experience shifted her

perspective. If she was given another chance,

she wanted to pursue the passions and gifts she

had been given. “So in 2020, She Is 31:25

clothing boutique and That Monogram Place

was birthed,” she said.

Starting one business is challenging enough.

Elisha launched two during the uncertainty of

the pandemic, trusting that if it was God’s will,

He would make a way. “I launched two businesses

during Covid,” she said. “It taught me that my

faith was stronger than I thought. I was born

to fight.”

Today, Turner leads her businesses with

a philosophy she describes in three words:

mentorship, lasting and divine. “I push every

day to be better than what I was the day before.

So as I grow, so does my leadership and those

I lead.”

When it came time to launch her businesses,

Elisha chose Madison County for a simple

reason: she wanted to share her gifts with the

community closest to her heart. While many

retailers focus primarily on products and sales,

Elisha views her work through a different lens.

“My store is my ministry, so the weapons will

form but they won't prosper. I'm a true believer

of that.”

Her customers are a constant source of

motivation, and she defines success differently

today than she did when she first opened her

doors.

“Today, success is meeting

my customers where they

are and knowing that I’m

able to bless at least one

person a day.”

Turner also credits those who encouraged

her along the way, particularly her close friend,

Ameka Coleman of Strands of Faith. “Seeing

her, her faith, and how fearless she was, was the

push I needed to see.”

As the retail industry continues to evolve,

Turner remains committed to learning and

growing. She regularly attends markets and

educational sessions to stay informed about

trends and better serve her customers.

She is also passionate about changing misconceptions

about boutique shopping. “Boutiques

are expensive! However, I choose quality over

quantity. I literally hand pick all the items in

my store.”

For Turner, customer service begins with

authenticity and understanding. “Meeting

customers where they are. Listening to their

needs and only doing what I can, never overpromising.”

When she’s not at work, Turner can usually

be found spending time with her husband and

three daughters or singing on stage. No matter

where life takes her, she hopes others will

embrace the gifts they have been given and trust

where those gifts may lead. “Get out of your own

way,” she said. “Your gifts will make room for

you, allow them.”

40 • JULY 2026

Why did you choose to

plant your business roots

in Madison County?

Its central location allows me to

connect with and serve people

from across the area. I feel

incredibly blessed to share

the gifts God has given me

with the Madison County

community, and it has

been rewarding to build

relationships while serving

others through my work.


Carrie Cullum

Carrie Cullum never set out with a rigid

career blueprint. Instead, her path developed

gradually through experience, opportunity, and

a willingness to grow into new responsibilities

as they came. “I don’t think there was one

single ‘lightbulb moment,’ but rather a gradual

progression,” Cullum said.

Her journey with Skin Aesthetics began

in social media and at the front desk while she

balanced life as a mother and operated a small

social media business from home. “Over time,

I naturally grew into a larger operational role,”

she said. “The more I was trusted with, the more

I realized how much I enjoyed the business side

of things – building systems, supporting the

team, and helping things run more smoothly

behind the scenes.”

Today, Carrie plays a key leadership role

within the practice, helping oversee operations

while supporting both staff and patients.

Her leadership style is one she describes as

collaborative, intentional, and adaptable. “I’ve

learned that leadership isn’t about having one

fixed approach – it’s about reading the room,

understanding people, and adjusting when

needed,” she said. “Being flexible with different

personalities and working styles makes for a

stronger team and a healthier work environment

for everyone involved.”

Like many leaders, Carrie’s career has

required her to embrace uncertainty. “One of

the biggest risks I’ve taken was stepping into

leadership roles without having a traditional,

linear career path,” she said.

Rather than following a conventional

path, she built her experience through years

of hands-on learning while raising a family.

“There were many moments where I had to

trust that I was capable even without feeling

fully ‘ready,’” she said. “Looking back, I can

see that growth rarely happens when you feel

perfectly prepared – it comes from saying yes

and figuring it out along the way.”

That mindset continues to guide the way

she leads her team through challenges. During

difficult economic cycles, Cullum believes it’s

important to stay focused on progress rather

than uncertainty.

“It’s easy to become

overwhelmed during

uncertain economic times,

so I try to keep our team

focused on the positives and

the progress we’re making.”

One way Skin Aesthetics does that is by

celebrating wins together. “During our monthly

staff meetings, we celebrate our ‘wins,’ whether

that’s an incredible patient outcome, positive

feedback, or a strong month,” she said. “Taking

time to recognize those moments keeps morale

high and reminds us why we do what we do.”

Throughout her career, Cullum has drawn

encouragement from several mentors who

helped her recognize her own potential. “These

ladies encouraged me to trust my abilities,

challenged me to grow, and reminded me I was

capable even during seasons when I doubted

myself,” she said. “Their support gave me the

confidence to step into opportunities I definitely

would not have pursued otherwise.”

Her definition of success has changed over

time as well. “Earlier in life, I viewed success as

achievements and measurable growth,” Cullum

said. “Today, I define success much differently.

Consistency, stability, and creating a positive

environment for both our team and our patients

matter far more to me now. I’ve learned to value

the long game over quick wins.”

As the aesthetics industry continues to

evolve, Cullum remains focused on education,

innovation and patient-centered care. “Patients

today are more educated about their treatment

choices than ever before, so we’ve focused

heavily on patient education and comprehensive

treatment planning,” she said.

That commitment reflects what she

considers the foundation of exceptional

customer service. “For me, the gold standard

is creating an experience where people feel

genuinely cared for from start to finish,”

Cullum said. “I love the concept of unreasonable

hospitality— going beyond what’s expected

in ways that make people feel seen, comfortable,

and valued. In aesthetics especially, trust and

relationships are everything.”

42 • JULY 2026



in Madison County?

While I didn’t start Skin Aesthetics,

I appreciate the strong sense of

community in Madison County.

We’ve been fortunate to build

long-term trust with our

patients, and many of them

truly feel like an extension

of our practice family.


Aliscia Oglesbee

The COVID shutdown in 2020 gave

Aliscia Oglesbee something many people rarely

get: time to reflect. “Like so many people, life

suddenly slowed down, and it gave me time to

really reflect on where I was and where I wanted

to go next.” What she discovered during that

season would ultimately change the course of

her career. “I realized I didn’t want to stay in the

same place professionally–I wanted to continue

growing, challenge myself, and create something

lasting,” she said.

Real estate was already a major part of her

life, but Oglesbee’s vision for the future had

grown beyond simply helping clients buy and

sell homes. “Real estate had already become such

a big part of my life, but during that season

I realized I wanted to do more than just sell

homes,” she said. “I wanted to lead, mentor, build

relationships, and create a company culture

centered on people and community.”

That season led Oglesbee to further her

education and become a licensed real estate

broker. Then, in 2022, she was presented with

an opportunity that felt like a logical next step.

“I was given the opportunity to purchase Dream

Home Properties, a brokerage that had already

been serving Central Mississippi for 10 years,”

she said. “It felt like the next natural step in my

journey.”

Today, Oglesbee leads Dream Home

Properties with a leadership style she describes

as supportive, driven, and relationship-focused.

“Early in my career, I believed leadership was

mostly about results and proving yourself,”

she said. “Over the years, I’ve learned that the

strongest teams are built through encouragement,

communication, and leading with integrity.”

Like many business owners, Oglesbee’s path

has required taking risks. “Purchasing and leading

my own brokerage was definitely the biggest risk

I’ve taken,” she said. “Taking on the responsibility

of an established company came with a lot

of pressure, but also incredible opportunity.”

The experience reinforced lessons that continue

to guide her today.

“It taught me the importance of believing

in yourself, staying adaptable, trusting your

instincts, and surrounding yourself with the right

people,” she said. “Most importantly, it taught

me that growth only happens when you are

willing to step outside of your comfort zone.”

While the real estate market experiences its

share of ups and downs, Oglesbee remains

focused on maintaining a positive outlook for

both herself and her team.

“I stay motivated by

remembering that every

challenge is temporary and

every market shift creates

new opportunities.”

Along the way, Oglesbee has benefited

from the guidance of mentors, including Melissa

Rhodes, whom she credits with helping shape her

professional journey. “Melissa Rhodes has been

one of the most influential mentors in my career,”

she said. “She taught me so much about this

industry, guided me through many stages of

my professional journey, and encouraged me

to continue growing and believing in myself.”

Her definition of success has evolved

over the years as well. “When I first started,

I probably measured success more by numbers

and achievements,” Oglesbee said. “Today,

success means balance, meaningful relationships,

helping others grow, serving my clients well, and

building a business that positively impacts

people’s lives and the community around me.”

When she is away from the office, she enjoys

spending time with family, supporting local

community events, and giving back whenever

possible. The values that drive her personal life

are the same ones that guide her business.

For young people entering the workforce,

her advice is simple. “Work hard, stay teachable,

and never underestimate the value of integrity

and consistency,” she said. “Success doesn’t

usually happen overnight–it comes from showing

up every day, learning from failures, and continuing

to grow even when things get difficult.”

When reflecting on 2020 and its challenges,

Oglesbee says, “Looking back, what started as a

season of uncertainty ended up becoming one

of the most defining and rewarding chapters of

my career.”

44 • JULY 2026



in Madison County?

Madison County has always felt

like home to me. It has a strong

sense of community, growing

opportunities, and people who

genuinely support local businesses.

I wanted to build a company where

relationships and community

involvement truly mattered—not

just sales. Being able to serve the

area I love while helping families

find a place to call home has

been incredibly rewarding.


Kristi Mosley

When Kristi Mosley surveyed Mississippi’s

event landscape, she didn’t see a lack of

venues—she saw a missing dimension. Amid a

sea of rustic barns and conventional ballrooms,

she envisioned an intentional environment that

balanced industrial grit with high-end softness.

That specific vision became the foundation

for The Velveteen Venue, located in the

picturesque Town of Lost Rabbit. Designed as

a versatile living canvas, the venue boasts

architecture striking enough to stand on its

own while flawlessly complementing any

client’s unique design aesthetic.

“When we first started, success was about

achieving the architectural vision and moving

away from the ‘shabby chic’ trend toward a

more sophisticated, urban-luxe aesthetic,”

Mosley reflects.

Today, while Mosley still oversees the

property daily, her role has evolved significantly.

What began as a focus on structural design has

shifted toward the people who walk through

the doors. For Mosley, fulfillment is no longer

just about the physical space, but about

practicing deep understanding and ensuring

every guest’s sensory journey is unforgettable.

Building the business required a massive

leap of faith. Walking away from a secure

corporate career remains one of the most

significant risks Mosley has ever taken, but the

transition taught her lessons that continue to

shape her entrepreneurial mindset.

“I learned that real security isn’t a guarantee

from an employer,” Mosley says. “It’s the

proven ability to solve problems, adapt to

market changes, and generate value out of thin

air. I learned that I don’t need a corporate

safety net because I am the safety net.”

The venue’s rapid rise as a premier Mississippi

landmark is also a testament to a deeply

harmonious partnership. Mosley credits much

of the business’s development to her husband of

18 years and co-owner, Brett. By combining his

macro-level expertise in real estate development

with her micro-focused strengths in sales and

marketing, they created a flawless collaborative

dynamic.

Now established, The Velveteen Venue

measures its triumphs by its community impact

and the core memories it helps create. Mosley

strives to make the venue a cornerstone of the

sophisticated, high-quality lifestyle that local

professionals promote in Madison County,

actively partnering with local organizations

and nonprofits to elevate the region’s

commercial and cultural value.

At the heart of this mission is an

unwavering commitment to unparalleled

hospitality.

“The gold standard is

approaching every event

with profound care,

recognizing that whether

it’s a wedding, a corporate

retreat, or a black-tie gala,

it’s a milestone moment

for our clients.”

“We don’t just host events; we shape

atmospheres where every detail is engineered

to make the day memorable,” Mosley said.

46 • JULY 2026



in Madison County?

Choosing Madison County was highly

intentional; the coastal, nautical

atmosphere provides guests with an

immediate sense of escape. As

the sun sets over the reservoir, the

natural light floods the indoors with a

golden hour glow, transforming a

standard party into an upscale

destination experience.

We believe The Velveteen Venue

is a vital pillar of the sophisticated,

high-quality lifestyle available in

Madison County. Beyond the

location, community focus is

critical; we actively partner with

local organizations and nonprofits

to create a synergistic cornerstone

that elevates the commercial and

cultural value of Madison County.


Shalondria Hill

When Shalondria Hill looks at a wedding

invitation, graduation announcement, or

personalized gift, she sees more than paper

and ink. She sees a story waiting to be told.

As owner of Open Invitation Stationery,

Hill has built a business around helping people

celebrate life’s most meaningful milestones.

While creativity has always been part of her

life, she said the moment she truly understood

her purpose came when she realized the impact

those keepsakes can have long after an event is

over. That perspective has shaped both her

business philosophy and her approach to

leadership. Hill describes her leadership style

in three words: supportive, intentional and

empowering.

“Early in my career, I felt like I needed to

have all the answers,” she said. “Over time, I’ve

learned that leadership is less about having all

the answers and more about creating an

environment where people feel valued, trusted,

and equipped to succeed.”

One of the biggest leaps of faith in her career

came when she chose to open a brick-and-mortar

boutique despite the rise of online shopping and

convenience-driven retail.

“Building and growing a specialty boutique in

a world that is increasingly driven by convenience

and online shopping was, without question, a

leap of faith.” The experience reinforced a lesson

she still carries today: relationships matter.

“It taught me something that continues to

anchor my business today – when you are fully

committed to exceptional service, thoughtfully

curated products, and creating meaningful

experiences, there is still a strong place for

businesses that prioritize relationships over

transactions,” she said.

Throughout her career, Hill has drawn

inspiration from two influential figures: her

father, William L. Wade, and former employer

Joan K. Upshaw. “Joan taught me that compassion

and business success are not mutually

exclusive,” Hill said. “My father taught me the

importance of integrity, excellence and

accountability.”

While her definition of success once

centered on growth and sales, Hill said it has

evolved into something much more personal.

“Today, relationships are my greatest measure of

success,” she said. She recalled a recent encounter

with a former client who returned seeking

another custom piece after a previous gift had

made a lasting impression on a loved one.

"Moments like that remind me

that my work is about so much

more than products. It's about

trust, connection and helping

people celebrate the people

they love."

That commitment to service remains at the

heart of Open Invitation Stationery. For Hill,

the goal is not simply creating beautiful products

but creating experiences that people remember.

“The gold standard is making people feel seen,

heard, and cared for from the very first interaction,”

she said. “Exceptional customer service

isn’t just about meeting expectations, it’s about

creating an experience people remember and

want to return to again and again.”

48 • JULY 2026



in Madison County?

There is definitely a testimony

behind how my business ultimately

ended up here, but in many ways,

Madison County has always been

part of my story. My grandparents

lived in Madison County and raised

their family in Canton, so the area

has family ties for me. Although

my parents made Hinds County

home while I was growing up, my

mother spent her entire career

working in Madison County

and commuted there daily.

Because of that, I was raised with

an appreciation for the community,

its people, and the values that

make Madison County special.

I have always admired the strong

sense of connection and pride

that exists here, and those are

qualities I wanted reflected

in my business.

Today, my husband and

I are proud to call Madison

County home as we raise

our family here. Looking

back, it's amazing to see

how life has come full

circle. What began as

family roots has become

the place where I've

built both my business

and my future.


Elizabeth Johnson

Long before Blume Floral Company opened

its doors in Gluckstadt, Elizabeth Johnson was

learning a lesson that would shape the rest of

her career: beautiful things take time to grow.

Johnson’s path into business ownership

unfolded gradually. It began in 2008 when she

helped a friend design flowers for her wedding.

“I loved listening to her love story and helping

her to create the wedding of her dreams,”

Johnson said. What started as a favor quickly

became something more. The experience

sparked a curiosity about entrepreneurship, and

Johnson immersed herself in learning everything

she could about small business ownership.

Two years later, she opened her first brickand-mortar

business. The journey was anything

but perfect. “Oh, the mistakes I made with my

first business…and I’m grateful for every one of

them!” she said. “The lessons I learned from

those mistakes helped to lay the foundation for

the journey that has led to my current business

in Gluckstadt – Blume Floral Company.”

Today, Johnson’s approach to business

looks much different than it did when she first

unlocked the doors to that original shop. Back

then, success was measured in simple terms.

“When I opened my first shop in 2010, success

was pretty simple – could we cover the overhead

this month?” she said.

Fifteen years later, after building multiple

businesses and establishing deep roots within

the communities she serves, success has become

far more personal. “Success now means making

meaningful connections with clients, staying

current with floral trends without losing our

Southern design roots, and giving back to the

community,” Johnson said.

In February 2025, Johnson and her daughter

opened Blume Floral Company together. Since

then, the shop has become more than a place to

purchase flowers. As customer preferences

continue to evolve, Johnson has embraced

opportunities to create experiences that bring

people together. From American Mahjong

classes to floral design workshops and community

events, Blume has expanded beyond

traditional retail.

”We want Blume to be

more than a place you

shop – we want it to be

a place you belong.”

That philosophy extends to every aspect of

customer service. Johnson believes beautiful

arrangements and thoughtful gifts are simply

the baseline expectation of a florist. What truly

matters is how people feel when they walk

through the door.

Some customers arrive celebrating engagements,

birthdays, or new babies. Others arrive

carrying grief and planning arrangements for a

loved one’s celebration of life. Johnson feels it is

important to connect with clients in a genuine

way for all of life’s significant moments.

“We take real pride in knowing our

customers–their families, their pets, their

favorite blooms, their design preferences, their

colors,” she said.

It’s a perspective that reflects years of

experience and countless relationships built

one arrangement at a time. And while

customers may imagine a florist’s day as peaceful

hours spent arranging flowers, Johnson laughs

at the misconception. “We get a good laugh

when customers say, ‘It must be so relaxing

working with flowers all day!’” she said. The

reality includes predawn mornings, sourcing

fresh blooms, preparing inventory and managing

custom orders. Yet for Johnson, the work

remains worthwhile because it centers on people.

Flowers may be what first bring customers

through the door, but relationships are what

keep them coming back. At Blume Floral

Company, both are carefully cultivated.

50 • JULY 2026



in Madison County?

In 2024, it was brought to my

attention that Gluckstadt needed

to have its own locally owned

full-service florist. After meeting with

Elizabeth Tyler, executive director of

the Gluckstadt Madison Business

Alliance, and getting to know some

local business owners, I felt this

area would be a great fit for a new

business venture. The plan was

further solidified when my daughter,

Abby, and her new husband,

Daniel, decided to plant roots in

Gluckstadt after their October

2024 wedding. When all the

pieces started falling into

place, it felt less like a

business decision and more

like the right next chapter.

Abby and I opened

Blume Floral Company

in February 2025.


Alyssa Killebrew

Some careers begin with a single defining

moment. For Dr. Alyssa Killebrew, the path was

less about one decision and more about a calling

she could not ignore. “I don’t know that it was a

single moment as much as a steady calling on

my life that I couldn’t say no to,” Killebrew said.

That calling was shaped early by her paternal

grandmother, whose influence continues to

guide both her personal and professional life.

“I was heavily influenced by my paternal grandmother,

a woman deeply loved and respected by

all who knew her,” she said. “She taught me faith,

loyalty, urgency, and the value of hard work.

She believed in loving people fully, while still

holding them accountable and the importance

of boundaries when needed.”

Those lessons became the foundation for a

career in psychology. “That foundation shaped

how I see the world: I believe in the goodness

of people, but I also believe we must be honest

about bad behavior and have accountability for

changing it,” she said. “Psychology gave me a

way to live that out–combining compassion

with science to help people grow something

good in their lives.”

Today, Killebrew leads her own private

practice, a decision she describes as one of the

greatest risks of her career. “In my career life, it

was starting my own private practice,” she said.

“I come from a family with very clear professional

paths, banking leadership and education

administration, but neither was mine.”

Stepping away from those expectations required

faith in herself and her purpose. “Choosing to step

away and follow my own passion for science and

behavior was a risk,” she said. “It taught me that

meaningful work is rarely the easiest path, but

it is always the most fulfilling.

“Building something with

integrity has been worth

every challenge.”

Her approach to leadership reflects many

of the same values that have shaped her life.

“Drive. Compassionate. Determination,”

Killebrew said. “Over time, I’ve learned that

strength without compassion can harden people,

and compassion without strength can fail them.

Leadership requires both with clarity, consistency,

and heart.” Those qualities have also helped her

navigate difficult seasons and economic uncertainty.

“You respect reality,” she said. “You tighten

budgets, make thoughtful decisions, and don’t

ignore hard seasons. I’m a farmer’s widow who

understands drought and bountiful harvest.

You don’t waste resources, and you don’t panic.

You stay steady, disciplined, and focused.”

Throughout her career, she has also been

inspired by mentors, including Dr. B.B. Currie.

“Dr. B.B. Currie is a pioneer in clinical psychology,

parenthood, and special education in Mississippi

and continues working into her 90s,” Killebrew

said. “She has been a steady source of personal

support through some of the hardest seasons

of my life and reminds me that passion and

purpose do not expire.”

While misconceptions about mental health

still exist, Killebrew believes awareness and

treatment continue to improve lives. “That mental

illness is not rare or separate from everyday life

encounters,” she said. “Everyone has symptoms

and has someone in the family with a diagnoseable

mental illness. Mental health treatment

now changes lives and generations to come.”

Her definition of success reflects that belief.

“Success is not about achievement or income,”

she said. “It is about impact, how many people

I can help face what they are running from, and

learning to thrive. Change one life, and you

change generations.”

As technology continues to evolve, she remains

focused on finding responsible ways to expand

care and reach more people. “I’m learning how

AI can expand access to care responsibly and

staying engaged with emerging treatments and

research so we can reach people suffering in

silence,” she said. “I am interested in the cuttingedge

research on psychedelics for brain disorders

such as PTSD.”

For those beginning their own journey,

Killebrew’s advice is simple and direct: “What

you do with good intention and honesty is

honorable.”

52 • JULY 2026



in Madison County?

This is the ideal place to continue

to work and serve others. I believe

in this community. Leadership here

reflects values I respect; faith, grit,

and principled decision-making.

This Delta girl at heart is honored

to contribute and grow where I’ve

been planted here in Madison

County, Mississippi. I also want to

recognize that I admire Mayor

Mary so much. She is a force.

The city built on prayer is

why I wanted to be here.


Kayla Soukup

For Kayla Soukup, success in business is

about far more than numbers on a spreadsheet.

It’s about relationships, trust, and helping people

feel confident about their future. As a financial

advisor with Raymond James, Kayla is part of a

new generation of women making their mark

in the financial industry–and doing it with

authenticity and enthusiasm.

With a warm personality and a natural

ability to connect with people, Soukup has

quickly become known for creating a welcoming

environment for clients who may feel overwhelmed

by financial planning. Whether she

is helping young professionals begin investing

or guiding families through retirement decisions,

her goal is always the same: make financial

conversations approachable and empowering.

“I love helping people feel more confident

about their future,” Soukup says. “Finances can

sometimes feel intimidating, but I want clients

to know they have someone in their corner who

genuinely cares about their goals and their lives.”

Transitioning from middle school education

to the world of finance was a major career shift

for Kayla, but joining her stepfather, Jeffrey

Miley, senior vice president of investments at

Raymond James, was a no-brainer. “He has

been an encourager and mentor to me for

almost 20 years now, and after sitting in a few

client meetings, I realized that my role as an

advisor includes a teaching aspect–and that

was so encouraging because teaching is a big

piece of who I am.”

As a woman in business, Soukup also

recognizes the importance of representation in

the financial industry. While finance has

historically been male-dominated, she believes

more women are stepping into leadership roles

and bringing valuable perspectives to the table.

“Women often approach financial planning

from a very relational standpoint,” Kayla says.

“People want to feel heard

and understood. I think

that personal connection

is incredibly important.”

A big part of her job is being a source of

wisdom for clients during tough times. “Our

strategies are all based on investing with a longterm

growth mindset, so it’s vital that I’m available

to my clients during these times and that I make

sure they are aware and prepared in advance,”

she said.

Early in Kayla’s career, she defined success

as a financial number, but as she has grown and

matured, she believes success is not the things

she leaves behind, but the impact she has made.

“Today, I would define success by answering the

questions, ‘Am I walking in my calling?’ and

‘Am I serving people well?’ If I can answer those

questions with a yes at the end of each day,

I consider that success,” Kayla said.

Outside of work, Kayla enjoys staying

involved in her community, spending time with

family, and continuing to grow personally and

professionally. She focuses on staying active and

lives a healthy lifestyle.

“I enjoy doing CrossFit at 601 CrossFit

and playing tennis at Parham Bridges,” she said.

When she is not at Kroger or cooking for her

family, Kayla is serving at Broadmoor Baptist

Church, or working alongside local businesses

as a member of the Gluckstadt Madison

Business Alliance, which keeps her busy.

Relationship building and planning/

advising through life’s ups and downs is what

Kayla says is 80 percent of her job. Learning to

utilize technology and AI only helps to improve

time management and efficiency. “People ask

if I’m scared that AI will put me out of a job,

and I tell them I’m not scared of that at all.

I have something that I don’t see AI being able

to fully develop—the ability to understand and

relate,” she said. “I plan to continue to adapt and

utilize all the tools available to me to give more

time and efficiency back to my clients.”

Kayla has a clear goal: put relationships

first. “I heard recently that if we would approach

every person we meet as an opportunity to learn

and grow, our lives would look significantly

different,” Kayla said. “I have tried to incorporate

this philosophy into both my work and personal

life.”

With her positive spirit, dedication to

service, and passion for helping others thrive,

Kayla represents the very best of today’s rising

women in business–professionals who are

leading with both excellence and heart.

“Helping clients reach milestones, accomplish

goals, or simply feel at ease – that’s the best part

of what I do,” she says. “It’s incredibly rewarding.”

54 • JULY 2026



in Madison County?

Madison County is truly my home.

I grew up in Madison, attended

and taught in Madison County

schools, and my family is here.

I’ve been privileged to travel

the world and live in other

states and countries, but

nothing truly feels like home

outside of Madison County

and Mississippi.


Trusted by Homeowners.

Valued by Realtors ®

Greg Shows

VP, Mortgage Lender | NMLS# 746590 | 601.573.9262

YourCNB.com/Greg

©2026 Citizens National Bank. All loans are subject to credit approval.

56 • JULY 2026


58 • JULY 2026

250 Years of

Duty & Honor

As America celebrates its 250th birthday, communities across

the nation are reflecting on the people whose service, sacrifice,

and dedication have helped shape the country’s story.

Here at home, that legacy is carried forward, every day, by local men and women in uniform who answer

the call to serve. In this special feature, we introduce four military members from our community whose

paths to service are as unique as the nation they represent. Through their experiences, readers will gain a

glimpse into the commitment, resilience, and sense of purpose that define military life. As we mark

250 years of American history, these profiles remind us that the ideals on which the country was

founded continue to be upheld by ordinary citizens doing extraordinary work in service to others.


Colonel Brian Pazzaglia

Colonel Brian (Tony) Pazzaglia, chief of staff for the Mississippi

National Guard, joined the U.S. Army shortly after high school, enlisting

as an infantryman in the active-duty component until 1994. Following

his time in active duty, he entered the Louisiana Army National Guard,

attended Officer Candidate School, and graduated from U.S. Army

Engineer Officer training at Ft. Leonard Wood, Missouri.

Pazzaglia attended the Special Forces Qualification Course in 2005

and served in the 20th Special Forces Group as well as other special

operations assignments including special forces detachment commander,

company commander, operations officer, and battalion/SOTF

commander. He most recently served as deputy commander, joint

special operations task force-Somalia, and commander of operations

for the 19th Special Forces Group at Camp Williams, Utah.

His deployments and operational experience include three rotations

in support of Operation Octave Shield - Joint Special Operations Task

Force-Somalia; Operation Resolute Support in Afghanistan; Operation

Juniper Shield including Chad, Niger, and Burkina Faso; Operation

Inherent Resolve in Iraq; and three rotations in support of Operation

Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan.

Pazzaglia received a Bachelor of Science in Marketing from Louisiana State

University-Shreveport in 1998, and a Master of Science in Strategic Studies

in 2021 from the U.S. Army War College in Carlisle, Pennsylvania.

His awards and decorations include the Bronze Star Medal with “V”

Device and one Oak Leaf Cluster, Defense Meritorious Service Medal,

Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Army

Commendation Medal, Joint Service Achievement Medal, Army

Achievement Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan

Campaign Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Inherent Resolve Campaign

Medal, and numerous federal and joint-service awards. He has also

earned the Combat Infantryman Badge, Senior Parachutist Badge,

and the Special Forces Tab.

60 • JULY 2026

Colonel Wyatt K. Rives

Colonel Wyatt K. Rives is the director of staff at the Mississippi

Air National Guard. He serves as the primary advisor to the

commander regarding the oversight and support of the 2,600

airmen assigned to the state’s two flying wings and combat

readiness training center. Colonel Rives directs and implements

higher-headquarters policy and guidance as aligned with the

commander’s intent as well as serves as the state-level Air National

Guard liaison to the Mississippi Army National Guard, National

Guard Bureau, state and federal leadership, and additional

external agencies.

Colonel Rives is a graduate of Manchester Academy in Yazoo

City, Mississippi, and Delta State University in Cleveland.

He began his military career by enlisting in the Mississippi Air

National Guard in 1989 as a crew chief on the C-141B aircraft.

He received his commission in 1997 as a distinguished graduate

of the Academy of Military Science then served as a public affairs

officer for Joint Force Headquarters, Mississippi Air National

Guard.

In 2004, he returned to the 172d Airlift Wing, and served in

personnel, logistics financial management, and aircraft maintenance

career fields. He has commanded two squadrons and

has deployed overseas to Turkey and Germany in support of

Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Before assuming his current duties, he served as the inspector

general for the 172d Airlift Wing.


Mandy Halter

Mandy Halter is a graduate of the United States Naval Academy

and served in the U.S. Navy for more than a decade as a nuclear

surface warfare officer, supporting Operation Joint Guardian,

Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Iraqi Freedom.

She drove some of the Navy’s largest warships and operated a

nuclear reactor aboard an aircraft carrier, experiences that

shaped her calm, people-first approach to leadership.

With nearly 30 years of experience in nuclear leadership, Halter

went on to serve another decade with the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory

Commission, where her work focused on protecting public health

and safety through the safe use of nuclear power. Since joining

Entergy in 2017, she has held key leadership roles in regulatory

compliance, new nuclear development, and operations at both

Grand Gulf and Waterford 3. Today, as vice president of independent

oversight, she leads quality assurance efforts across

Entergy’s five nuclear reactors in Mississippi, Louisiana, and

Arkansas.

Halter encourages women and girls to pursue big dreams with

confidence, resilience, and determination. Closer to home, she

is the mother of two daughters, ages 15 and 11, who attend Saint

Andrew’s Episcopal School. She and her two daughters are

members of Saint Paul Catholic Church in Flowood. Outside

of work, she enjoys cooking, real estate, and world travel.

62 • JULY 2026

Staff Sergeant Zachery Rios

Staff Sergeant Zachery Rios is from Gulfport and enlisted in

the United States Marine Corps in 2015. His journey began at

Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island, South Carolina.

Upon completion, he attended the Center for Naval Aviation

Technical Training in Pensacola, Florida, and earned the Military

Occupational Specialty. Following this, he continued his training

at CNATT Detachment Camp Pendleton, where he achieved

H-1 helicopter avionics technician.

In 2016, Rios joined Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron

at New River, North Carolina, serving as an avionics technician.

And in 2018, he was promoted to corporal and took on the

responsibility of managing the compass calibration program.

In 2019, Corporal Rios earned the qualification of collateral

duty inspector and was responsible for inspecting all maintenance

actions on 36 H-1 helicopters. In 2020, he was promoted to

sergeant.

In 2021, Sergeant Rios earned the qualification of Collateral

Duty Quality Assurance Representative. In this role, he supervised

and oversaw all maintenance actions on 36 H-1 helicopters

as the overnight shift non-commissioned officer in charge.

He was promoted to staff sergeant in November 2023 and has

assumed several key billets; course supervisor, instructor evaluator,

and Tiger Team controller. He served as an avionics organizational

instructor evaluator.

Rios is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in general business

administration. His personal decorations include the Navy and

Marine Corps Achievement Medal and Military Outstanding

Volunteer Service Medal, two Meritorious Mass, and one

Certificate of Accommodation.

He has been married to his wife, Summer Mi-Linh-Le Truong

Rios of Gulfport, since September 2024. They have two sons

and one daughter.


Coach

Richard Duease

RETIREMENT

CELEBRATION

April 18 / MRA Gymnasium

PHOTOS: Lonnie Kees

64 • JULY 2026


66 • JULY 2026


Hometown

BRANDIE LITTLE

Covered Music

Where Great Music Meets Greater Purpose

Back in February 2012, about 100 people showed up at Duling Hall in Jackson for

a little church fundraiser called Fondren Covered. Nobody knew what to expect.

The night wrapped up with a performance of Prince’s “Purple Rain,” and when

Gary Watts looked up from his keyboard, the whole room was on its feet.

Cell phones were in the air, just like you would see at a sold out arena show.

That was the moment he knew they were onto something.

68 • JULY 2026

A Vision Born from the Heart

Gary Watts didn’t set out to build one of Mississippi’s most talked about music events.

He set out to give back. Watts, who founded Covered Music and also serves as CEO of Fuse.Cloud,

has always believed that music and community belong together. “The vision has always been,

can we create something that will give back to the community and at the same time help

expose different ministries and causes that people need to know about,” he says.


Growing up in a church where musical excellence mattered,

Watts carried that same standard into Covered from day one.

The idea is pretty straightforward. Bring together some of the best

local musicians Mississippi has to offer, pick a theme built around

songs people already love, and use the music to raise money and

awareness for causes worth fighting for. Themes have ranged

from “Yacht Rock” to “Motown,” each one chosen carefully by a

board that is half musicians. “It takes them back to a time in their

life where they first heard that song and reminds them how

meaningful it was and is to them,” Watts says.

None of that magic happens without the right people. One

long-time partner who has helped make every Covered event

look and feel as professional as possible is Stephen Barnette with

Davaine Lighting. Barnette travels the country working with major

touring acts, yet he shows up for Covered twice a year without

hesitation. “Stephen really understood my heart early on and has

been very generous with what he has contributed over the years

regarding our production packages,” Watts says. “He literally

travels around the country doing this for superstars and yet takes

the time to come back and be a part of our event two times a year.

It really means so much to me.”

The Music Behind the Mission

You really can’t talk about Covered without talking about

Topher Brown. Brown has served as the event’s musical director

since the early days, and his fingerprints are all over what

Covered has become. He and Watts first connected when Watts

brought him in to lead worship at Fondren Church, and their

shared love of music quickly grew into something much bigger.

“The talent was definitely already in place, they just needed

a little musical structure and I think that is what I brought to the

table,” Brown says. “In the time that I have been the MD for

Covered, Gary has not only become one of my mentors, but also

one of my closest and dearest friends. His heart for the community

is nothing short of inspiring.”

Some of Brown’s most meaningful moments have happened

right there on the Covered stage. During a Jimmy Buffett themed

show, he got to perform “A Pirate Looks At Forty” alongside his

dad, his musical hero. “It was just an incredible moment for us to

share on stage and one that I will cherish forever.” The community

that has grown up around Covered means just as much to him.

“As bandmates, we have become a band of brothers and sisters.

Our fans not only come to shows faithfully, they also support the

causes that we sponsor with extreme generosity.”

Photos: Vincent McMurtery

70 • JULY 2026

A Family on Stage and Off

Judson and Kaitlin Wright are another big part of what

makes Covered special. Judson first crossed paths with Watts

as a teenager busking at the Renaissance shopping center,

and from the very start, Watts’s generosity and heart for the

community drew him in. “In my first event I played for, the room

was packed with generous people looking to support a good

cause and have a great time,” Judson says. His role has grown

a lot since then, moving from performer to board member,

where he now helps carry the mission forward alongside

Watts, Brown, and others.

For Kaitlin, being part of Covered has opened doors she

did not see coming. “It has introduced me to wonderful people,

incredible music spanning genres and decades, and impactful

organizations that make Mississippi better.” She and Judson even

sang their first duet together at a Covered event, performing

“No Air” while they were still dating. Looking back on it now,

Judson puts it simply. “Covered is an opportunity for Kaitlin and

I to share in true ministry for our community as a couple.”

Where Music Meets Miracles

If you want to understand what Covered is all about, look

at the organizations it has supported. From local and foreign

missions, to adoption and student mentoring, the event has

raised money for causes that matter. But no story captures the

reach of Covered quite like its relationship with Harbor Day

School, formerly known as The Little Lighthouse.

Harbor Day School is a Christian developmental center

serving children from birth to age six with special needs, and

every service they provide comes at no cost to families.

Wesley Mockbee, the school’s capital campaign manager,

walked into a Covered event eight years ago not knowing

much about Harbor Day School. By the end of the night, he

and his wife had written a check. “Little did I know, a couple

of years later, we would welcome a daughter with special

needs who would eventually enroll at Harbor Day School,”

Mockbee shares.

That one night led him to leave his law practice and join

Harbor Day School, full time, to lead a capital campaign for a

new building. “For me, it all started at Covered.” He is also

quick to point out that his story is just one piece of a much

bigger picture. “Every year, Covered raises tens of thousands of

dollars and introduces us and our kids to thousands of people.

It is not an exaggeration to say that Covered exposes Harbor

Day School to more people than any other event.” The school’s

waitlist is now pushing three years, and the new building being

designed today represents a future made possible by the

generosity Covered has helped build.

The Road Ahead

What started as a single night at Duling Hall is now a bi-annual

event with two performances at the Clyde Muse Center in Pearl.

Covered has already spread to Brookhaven and Starkville. “The

vision is to go to other markets and teach them the concept and

eventually step aside and let them do it,” he says. An Eagles

themed show is coming up in August at Clyde Muse Center, and

themes like the 80s and Disney are already being talked about

for the future.

Fourteen years in, Covered Music is still growing, still giving,

and still filling rooms with people who love great music and want

to make a difference. That is Mississippi at its best.


72 • JULY 2026

BALAYAGE | COLOR | CUTTING & STYLING | EXTENSIONS | TREATMENTS | LUXURY GIFTS

Come see us at our NEW Location in Madison

MADISON: 107 Merchant Street, Suite 1-F, Madison, MS 39110

JACKSON: 1220 East Northside Dr., Suite 300, Jackson, MS 39211

FOLLOW US ON

@WATERCOLOR_SALON


SALUTE

to First Responders

Police Officer

John

CANNON

MADISON POLICE DEPARTMENT

Why did you decide to be a police officer?

Growing up, I watched my father and many of his friends serve as law enforcement

officers. As I grew older, I began to understand the significant impact

they had on the community and the important role they played in helping

others. Seeing their dedication, professionalism, and commitment to serving

those around them inspired me to serve my community.

How long have you been with the Madison PD?

Ten years.


My parents, James and Pattie Cannon, have always encouraged my siblings

and me to become the best versions of ourselves. Regardless of the challenges

we faced each day, they consistently made themselves available for life’s

important moments. My sisters, Mary Frances and Lea, both work in healthcare

at UMMC. My wonderful wife, Anna, is my greatest source of support.

Her encouragement, strength, and belief in me has motivated me to be a better

person. We have four beloved dogs—Rocket, Harley, Bella, and Lemon.

What is the toughest thing you have experienced in your job?

The loss of life is one of the most difficult aspects of the profession. No matter

how much experience you gain, it never becomes easy to witness someone

lose a loved one. Seeing the grief and heartbreak that families experience

during those moments serves as a reminder of how precious life is and the

importance of treating every situation with compassion, empathy, and

professionalism.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is participating in community

outreach events with fellow members of the department where we have the

opportunity to speak with community. These interactions allow us to inform

them about the responsibilities, duties, and purpose of our profession while

fostering positive relationships within the community.

Share some things you enjoy doing in your spare time.

Family is an important part of my life, and I make it a priority to spend quality

time with them. Nearly every Sunday, my family gathers for dinner at my

parents’ home. I also enjoy spending time outdoors and value activities such

as gardening, hunting, playing with my dogs, and working on projects with

my family.

Who is someone you admire and why?

My father, James Cannon, is someone I have admired throughout my entire

life. Growing up, both of my parents worked countless hours, often sacrificing

their own time and comfort to provide opportunities for my sisters and me.

Despite working long hours, including overnight shifts, my father always made

it a priority to be present for the important moments in our lives. His work

ethic, selflessness, and unwavering support have had a lasting impact on me.

He taught me the importance of putting family first and being present for

the people who matter most. Those lessons continue to guide me today, and

I strive every day to provide the same level of love, support, and dedication

to my own family.

74 • JULY 2026

What are three things on your bucket list?

I’d love to take my wife to Niagara Falls, Ireland, and the Rocky Mountains.

What advice would you give to a young person?

Don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone. Personal and

professional growth often occurs when we challenge ourselves to take on

new experiences and responsibilities. By embracing opportunities that may

seem unfamiliar or difficult, we gain valuable knowledge, develop new skills,

and build confidence. Continuous learning and self-improvement require a

willingness to push beyond what is comfortable and strive for greater

achievement.

What is your favorite thing about Madison County?

The community. Growing up in Madison, I have seen many different

kinds of storms throughout the years that destroy homes and block

roadways. No matter the time of day nor the type of storm, I always see

members of the community coming together to help each other to recover.

Neighbors often treat each other like family, offering support, resources,

and encouragement to those in need.

SPONSORED BY


Shuffling

TILES,

Building

BONDS

The Heart Behind Madison Mahjong

AMANDA LIVINGSTON

What began as a simple invitation from

a friend has grown into something far

more meaningful for Kelly Elfert of

Madison—a thriving community built

around tiles, laughter, and friendships.

Like many busy women balancing work

and family life, Kelly hadn’t made much

room for hobbies. When a friend, Missy, first

suggested learning Mahjong, it lingered on

the back burner for nearly a year. But one

simple question—“What are your hobbies?”

—sparked a shift. Without a clear answer,

Kelly realized it was time to carve out space

for something new.

76 • JULY 2026

In February 2025, she hosted her first

Mahjong party at home. The experience

was instant magic. “It wasn’t just the

game,” Kelly recalls. “It was everything—

the beautiful tiles, the stunning mats, and

the feeling of gathering together.” What

she didn’t expect was just how deeply she

would come to value those moments of

connection.

Within a few months, that spark turned

into something bigger. Alongside a small

group of friends, Kelly helped launch

Madison Mahjong—right from her kitchen

table. Their goal was simple but powerful:

create a space where people of all ages

could gather, learn, and build meaningful

relationships through the game.

They had no idea how quickly it would

grow. In its first year, Madison Mahjong has

introduced more than 500 people–ranging

from ages 10 to 80–to the game. Participants

have traveled from across Mississippi and

beyond, including visitors from Colorado

and Louisiana, who discovered the group

through social media. Many are newcomers

to the area, finding not just a pastime, but a

sense of belonging. And while Mahjong is

known for its strategy, at Madison Mahjong,

the heart of the experience lies in something

deeper.

“From the beginning, it’s been about

connection,” Kelly says. “Yes, we offer

beginner and strategy classes, but the

conversations are just as important as

the gameplay.”

Those conversations often stretch

beyond the table—before games begin

and long after they end. Topics range

from careers and family life to personal

challenges and triumphs. For many, it’s

become a much-needed pause from the

demands of everyday life. “It’s a chance

to unplug,” Kelly explains. “To be present.

To laugh. To support one another.”

That sense of community has also led

to unexpected friendships. Kelly shares the

story of a woman who arrived at an event

feeling nervous and alone, new to both

Mahjong and the Madison area. After

being warmly welcomed and introduced

to a table, she found her footing—and her

people. Six months later, those same

women are close friends who still play

together regularly.

Stories like that are what keep Kelly

inspired. Even the team behind Madison

Mahjong grew organically through these

connections. As the group expanded,

Kelly and co-founder Shannon Grimsley

brought on Liz Scott, a fellow player they

met through the game. What began as a

shared interest quickly turned into a

meaningful friendship and partnership.

“It’s been such a blessing,” Kelly says.

“That’s the most rewarding part—meeting

people and bonding over something as

simple as a tile game.”

For those who might feel intimidated by

Mahjong’s intricate appearance, Kelly

offers reassurance. “Please don’t be

intimidated,” she says. “I felt the same way

at first. But with a little time and practice,

anyone can learn.”

Madison Mahjong emphasizes a

hands-on, welcoming approach, placing

a teacher at every beginner table to guide

players, step-by-step. While videos and

apps can help, Kelly believes there’s no

substitute for learning in person—where

questions are encouraged and confidence

builds naturally.

Her advice for newcomers is simple:

come with an open mind, stay focused,

and keep practicing. Whether it’s through

tutorials, apps, or simply handling the tiles

at home, repetition helps the game click.

But more than anything, it’s about showing

up. Because at Madison Mahjong, the real

win isn’t just in the tiles you play—it’s in the

friendships you build along the way.

L-R: Shannon Grimsley (co-founder),

Kelly Elfert (founder), and Liz Scott


78 • JULY 2026

The Catch That Matters Most

KARLEY WOODS

Some of the best memories a child makes with

their father happen before most people are awake.

A fishing rod rests in one hand, a tackle box in the other, and the

promise of a morning spent together stretches out across the water.

Some of my father’s fondest memories, so he says, were made on

his family’s pond. His father stood to his left, his grandfather to his

right, and all three shared the same goal: catch the biggest fish.

Along the way, they built something far more valuable than a day’s

catch. They built memories.

That love for the outdoors eventually made its way down to me

and my sister. I imagine many families can tell a similar story. That’s

why the annual Father Child Fishing Tournament at Old Trace Park

felt like so much more than a community event.

Hosted by the Ridgeland Recreation and Parks Department,

the tournament brought families together along the shoreline of the

Ross Barnett Reservoir for a morning of fishing, friendly competition

and quality time. Children cast their lines into the water alongside

fathers, grandfathers and father figures, all hoping to reel in a

winning catch.

For Brent Watson of Ridgeland Recreation and Parks, that

family connection is what has kept the event going for nearly three

decades. Growing up fishing Ross Barnett Reservoir with his father

and grandfather, he understands firsthand how meaningful those

moments can be.


“It’s important in a busy time where everybody’s just going all

the time to take a few minutes spending some family time with

your dad,” Watson said. “Whether they catch fish or not, just

spending time with your kids and having some life lessons out

there for them to learn from you.”

Prizes were awarded for the biggest fish, smallest fish and

most fish caught, but the real reward seemed to be found

somewhere beyond the scoreboard.

Throughout the morning, fathers could be seen helping

untangle fishing line, bait hooks and patiently explain techniques

that had likely been passed down to them years earlier. Some

children listened intently to every instruction. Others were simply

excited to watch their bobber dance across the water.

For many families, the event was an opportunity to step away

from busy schedules and spend uninterrupted time together

outdoors. Conversations flowed easily between casts, and each

tug on a fishing line brought a new wave of excitement.

Michael McElroy and his son Everett were among the families

enjoying a slower pace along the shoreline. For Michael, the

morning was less about the fish and more about the chance to

spend time together. “It’s just a good time to be out here and

relax and spend quality time together,” McElroy said. “He’s

getting to teach me a little bit today.”

What made the morning especially meaningful was seeing

traditions continue from one generation to the next. Skills that

cannot be learned from a screen were shared in real time; how to

cast, how to wait patiently, how to celebrate a catch and how to

laugh when the fish gets away.

For Kevin Luckett, those traditions are exactly what he hopes

will continue long after the tournament ends. Having fished since

he was four years old, he hopes his son will one day pass the

same lessons along. “The main thing is for him to grow up and

teach his son or daughter the same exact thing,” Luckett said.

“It kept me out of trouble.”

Events like the Father Child Fishing Tournament remind us that

some of life’s most important lessons happen in ordinary moments.

They happen sitting quietly on a shoreline, standing shoulder to

shoulder with someone you admire, learning not just how to catch

a fish, but how to appreciate the time spent together.

Long after the prizes have been handed out and the fishing

poles put away, those are the memories that remain. Years from

now, many of the children who attended may not remember

exactly how many fish they caught that morning. But they will

likely remember who was standing beside them when they did.

And sometimes, that is what matters most.

“It kept me

out of trouble.”

80 • JULY 2026

“It’s just a

good time to

be out here

and relax and

spend quality

time together.”


Sliced Tomato Salad

• 8 large tomatoes, cut into

¼ inch slices

• 2 large sweet onions, halved

and thinly sliced

• 1/3 cup olive oil

• 2 Tbsp. lemon juice

• 1 tsp. dried oregano

• ¾ tsp. salt

• ¼ tsp. pepper

• 2 Tbsp. minced fresh parsley

Arrange tomatoes and onions on a

large rimmed serving platter. Whisk

oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt and

pepper. Drizzle over the top. Sprinkle

with parsley.

Star Spangled Parfaits

• 2 cups fresh strawberries,

cut into ½ inch pieces

• 2 cups fresh blueberries

• 4 tsp. reduced fat raspberry

walnut vinaigrette

• ¾ cup fat-free vanilla or

strawberry Greek yogurt

• 2 tsp. minced fresh mint

• Unsweetened shredded coconut

Place strawberries and blueberries in

separate bowls. Drizzle each with two

tsp. vinaigrette; toss to coat. In a small

bowl, mix yogurt and mint. Spoon

strawberries into four parfait glasses.

Layer each with yogurt mixture and

blueberries. Top with coconut.

Red, White & Blue

Summer Salad

• 2/3 cup extra virgin olive oil

• ½ cup julienned fresh basil

• 1/3 cup white balsamic vinegar

• ¼ cup julienned fresh mint leaves

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 tsp. Dijon mustard

• 1 tsp. sea salt

• 1 tsp. sugar

• 1 tsp. pepper

• 2 cups cherry tomatoes

• 8 cups fresh arugula

• 1 carton (8 oz.) fresh mozzarella

cheese pearls, drained

• 2 medium peaches, sliced

• 2 cups fresh blueberries

• 6 oz. thinly sliced prosciutto,

julienned

• Additional mint leaves

In a bowl, whisk first 9 ingredients

together. Add tomatoes; let mixture

stand while preparing salad.

In another large bowl, combine

arugula, mozzarella, peaches,

blueberries and prosciutto. Pour

tomato mixture over top; toss to coat.

Garnish with additional mint leaves.

Serve immediately.

Red White & Blue

Potato Salad

• 1¼ lbs. small purple potatoes

(about 11) quartered

• 1 lb. small Yukon Gold potatoes

(about 9), quartered

• 1 lb. small red potatoes (about 9)

quartered

• ½ cup chicken stock

• ¼ cup white wine or additional

chicken stock

• 2 Tbsp. sherry vinegar

• 2 Tbsp. white wine vinegar

• 1½ tsp. Dijon mustard

• 1½ tsp. stone-ground mustard

• ¾ tsp. salt

• ½ tsp. coarsely ground pepper

• 6 Tbsp. olive oil

• 3 celery ribs, chopped

• 1 small sweet red pepper, chopped

• 8 green onions, chopped

• ¾ lb. bacon strips, cooked and

crumbled

• 3 Tbsp. each minced fresh basil,

dill and parsley

• 2 Tbsp. toasted sesame seeds

Boil potatoes in a dutch oven. Reduce

heat; cook, uncovered, 10-15 minutes

or until tender. Drain and transfer to a

large bowl. Drizzle potatoes with stock

and wine; toss gently, allowing liquids

to absorb. Whisk vinegars, mustards,

salt and pepper. Gradually whisk in oil

until blended. Add vinaigrette,

vegetables, bacon and herbs to potato

mixture; toss to combine. Sprinkle

with sesame seeds. Serve warm.

82 • JULY 2026

Pork Tenderloin with

Three Berry Salsa

• 1¼ cups fresh or frozen

blackberries, thawed and drained

• 1¼ cups fresh or frozen raspberries,

thawed and drained

• 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries,

thawed and drained

• 1 medium sweet red pepper,

finely chopped

• 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded

and minced

• ½ medium red onion,

finely chopped

• ¼ cup lime juice

• 3 Tbsp. minced fresh cilantro

• ¼ tsp. salt

Place first five ingredients in a bowl;

toss lightly to combine. Reserve one

cup berry mixture for sauce. For salsa,

gently stir onion, lime juice, cilantro

and salt into remaining mixture; let

stand 30 minutes.

• 2 pork tenderloins (3/4 lb. each),

cut into ¾ inch slices

• 1 tsp. salt

• ½ tsp. pepper

• 2 Tbsp. olive oil, divided

• ½ cup white wine or chicken stock

• 2 shallots, thinly sliced

• ½ cup chicken stock

Sprinkle pork with salt and pepper.

In a large skillet, heat 1 Tbsp. oil over

medium-high heat. Add half the pork

and cook until thermometer reads

145 degrees, 2-4 minutes on each

side. Remove from pan. Repeat with

remaining pork and oil. Add wine,

shallots and reserved berry mixture

to the pan, stirring to loosen browned

bits. Bring to a boil; cook until liquid

is reduced to 1 Tbsp., 4-6 minutes.

Stir in stock; cook until shallots are

tender, about 5 minutes longer,

stirring occasionally. Return pork to

pan; heat through. Serve with salsa.

American Flag

Sugar Cookie Cake

• 2 17.5 oz packages of dry

sugar cookie mix

• 2 cans whipped white frosting

• 32 ounces fresh strawberries

• 50 blueberries

Preheat oven according to package

directions. Lightly grease a large

rimmed baking sheet. Prepare dough

according to directions. If it gives the

option of making drop cookie or roll

out, use the drop cookie instructions.

Spread evenly on cookie sheet. Bake

according to directions, plus 8-10

minutes more or until the whole giant

cookie is lightly brown. Allow to cool

fully and frost. Do not add the fruit

until 3-4 hours before serving. Cut

cake in half. In the top left corner,

add 50 blueberries. Break cake into

7 stripes, add the cut and hulled

32 ounces fresh strawberries.

Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Crunchy Cauliflower

& Tomato Salad

• 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil

• 3 Tbsp. white wine vinegar

• 1 tsp. fresh lemon juice, or more

for taste

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 1 large head cauliflower, chopped

small

• ¼ cup minced red onion

• ¼ cup minced fresh parsley

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved,

or more to taste

Whisk olive oil, vinegar, lemon

juice, salt, and pepper together in

a bowl until dressing is smooth.

Mix cauliflower, red onion, parsley,

and garlic together in a large bowl.

Drizzle dressing over cauliflower

mixture; toss to coat. Gently fold

tomatoes into salad. Chill salad in

refrigerator up to 3 hours before

serving.

Patriotic Punch

• Cranberry Juice

• Blue Sports Drink

• Diet 7-up

• 1 bag of crushed ice

• Flag toothpicks

• Strawberries

• Blueberries

Fill a glass almost to the top with ice cubes.

Pour cranberry juice until it fills about one

third of the container. Each time you add a

new drink color, the ice will melt down a little,

so add additional ice cubes to fill the container

back up. Add blue sports drink, again filling up

about one third more of the glass or container.

As you add the blue beverage, pour it slowly

and directly on top of an ice cube so the ice

cube will slow it down even further. Add

additional ice to replace what melts but this

time add crushed ice instead of ice cubes.

The density of the crushed ice helps keep

the 7-up from blending in to the blue and

adds the “whitish” appearance. Finally, add

Diet 7-up, filling up the glass/container to

the top. Garnish with a flag toothpick with

strawberries and blueberries.


Swing into

Summer

THURSDAYS IN MAY

Madison The City on Main Street

84 • JULY 2026


advertiser spotlight

Flora

WELCOME TO

THE TOWN OF

MISSISSIPPI

Nestled in the western tip of Madison County is a small

town known as Flora. It is best known for its small-town flair

and down-to-earth values. The 3.4 square miles of quiet

streets and subdivisions on any given day will be teamed

with families walking, riding bikes or taking afternoon strolls.

It is a place where knowing your neighbor is a part of everyday

life and a place where families have lived for generations.

Its downtown is reminiscing of an old-town atmosphere.

It’s a place where the community comes together to cheer on

their favorite sports team and support the youth at local school

events. On quiet afternoons when you feel the seasons

changing, you can venture onto your front porch and listen

to First Baptist Church of Flora bells chiming from the church

tower at noon each day and on special holidays throughout

the year.

It’s a community that shares its love for family and friends

that is involved in keeping up the hometown feel and welcomes

those who want to be part of a caring and growing community.

Flora is a place where many have called home, where many

have lived their entire lives and where many who have left and

ventured out into the world have come back to raise their own

families so that their children will have instilled in them the

old-town values that only a small town like Flora can offer.

Flora–there’s no place like home.

FLORA FLORA FLORA FLORA FLORA FLORA FLORA FLORA FLORA FLORA FLORA FLORA

86 • JULY 2026



88 • JULY 2026

Flora Gathers at Railroad Pizza

Founded in 2016 by Wes and Meredith Carter, Railroad Pizza Company has grown into far more

than a restaurant in the heart of Flora. The restaurant has become a community gathering place

built on resilience, hard work, and hometown pride.

The journey has not been without challenges. Just six months after opening, a tornado swept

through main street in April 2017, tearing the roof from the restaurant's kitchen and causing

extensive damage. The historic building, which celebrates its 101st anniversary this year, required

significant repairs, forcing the business to close for nearly six months. A few years later, Railroad

Pizza Company faced another obstacle during the pandemic, adapting to a to-go-only model

while continuing to serve its loyal customers.

Today, the restaurant is celebrating its 10th anniversary as one of Flora's favorite destinations.

Best known for its 18 signature pizzas including customer favorites the Super Chief and the Dump

Truck, Railroad Pizza Company has earned statewide recognition being named Best Pizza by

readers in both Mississippi Magazine and Hometown Madison Magazine.

While pizza may have built its reputation, the restaurant's menu extends far beyond that. Hungry

patrons will find po'boys, sandwiches, seafood, salads, hand-breaded appetizers, and 17 flavors

of wings. Among its most popular items are the homemade mozzarella and pepper jack cheese

sticks, which are hand-cut and hand-breaded fresh each day before being served with house-made

marinara sauce. Guests also rave about the restaurant's famous house-made ranch dressing,

affectionately known by many regulars as "liquid gold," as well as its jalapeño ranch and peppercorn

ranch varieties.

The Railroad Pizza Company team proudly describes itself as a group of “salad snobs,”

committed to serving fresh ingredients whenever possible. Lettuce is sourced from Flora’s Salad

Days Produce, while seasonal produce is purchased from neighbor Two Dog Farms when

available. Supporting local agriculture remains a priority with beef sourced from Bozeman Meat

Company and W.S. Cattle Company for favorites such as Taco Tuesday, Spaghetti Wednesday,

and the restaurant's pot roast. Other customer favorites include homemade chicken salad,

pimiento cheese, and the Friday Catfish Pontchartrain special.

The restaurant's full bar has become a destination of its own, thanks in large part to business

partner Chelsea Winford. Originally hired as Railroad Pizza Company's bartender, Chelsea was

entrusted with developing the bar program and has built the cocktail menu from the ground up.

Her creativity and dedication have helped establish the restaurant's reputation for handcrafted

cocktails. Guests can also enjoy 12 beers on tap including selections from Mississippi craft

breweries Key City Brewery and Southern Prohibition Brewing. As she prepares to help lead

the business into the future, Chelsea's passion and leadership continue to shape the next

chapter of Railroad Pizza Company.

Open Tuesday through Saturday from 10:30am to 9pm, the restaurant has cultivated a

devoted following, with some customers visiting all five days each week. Over the years, it has

become a place where friendships are formed, milestones are celebrated, and first-time visitors

quickly become regulars. The Carters also prepare party trays for community gatherings and

remain dedicated supporters of local schools, churches, first responders, and area events

through donations and sponsorships.

In 2025, Wes and Meredith expanded their entrepreneurial vision by launching Two Sundays,

a specialty foods brand that began with a homemade Bloody Mary mix created for Railroad Pizza

Company. What started as a single product has quickly grown into an expanding line of dressings,

dips, spreads, sauces, and specialty foods.

As Railroad Pizza Company celebrates a decade of serving the community, the Carters remain

grateful for the support that carried them through tornado recovery, a global pandemic, and every

challenge along the way. With the continued success of Railroad Pizza Company, the growth of

Two Sundays, and the next generation of leadership taking shape, the future is as promising as

ever for this small-town business built on great food, perseverance, and a deep commitment to

community.

MEREDITH CARTER

FLORA FLORA FLORA FLORA FLORA FLORA FLORA FLORA FLORA FLORA FLORA



McTaggart Fine Art

A longtime dream became reality when Sarah McTaggart opened McTaggart Fine Art

in the heart of Flora. As an artist, McTaggart had always envisioned creating a gallery

where exceptional artwork could be displayed thoughtfully and appreciated fully. Flora's

historic buildings, small-town charm, and welcoming atmosphere made it the perfect

place to bring that vision to life.

Today, McTaggart Fine Art showcases a carefully curated collection of works from

some of Mississippi's most talented artists, featuring a blend of traditional, impressionistic,

contemporary, and abstract styles that reflect both creativity and craftsmanship.

McTaggart Fine Art offers more than beautiful artwork; it provides an inviting experience

for visitors and collectors alike. McTaggart intentionally curates the gallery to ensure

each piece has room to be appreciated, creating a space that feels warm, inspiring and

approachable.

Whether guests are searching for artwork for a new home, following the work of a

favorite artist, or simply exploring Flora for the day, the gallery welcomes them to slow

down and enjoy the beauty of fine art.

90 • JULY 2026


Fancy Pheasant

Fancy Pheasant is a curated collection of European antiques inspired by the beauty,

tradition, and heritage of the sporting lifestyle. Sourced directly from France, Belgium,

and the Netherlands, each piece is chosen for its craftsmanship, character, and ability

to bring a sense of history into the modern Southern home.

Whether in a Mississippi Delta duck camp or an 18th-century French countryside

château, there is a shared spirit of retreat, gathering, entertaining, and appreciation for

the land and its creatures. These are places where family and friends come together,

where stories are told, and where the details of a home matter.

At Fancy Pheasant, we search Europe for one-of-a-kind antiques that still have

stories to tell. Some pieces reflect the way they were carefully crafted. Others speak to

the homes they once belonged to or the lives they were part of more than a century ago.

In a world of instant delivery and mass production, these pieces offer something rare:

beauty with history, craftsmanship with soul, and interiors that feel collected rather

than decorated. Every item at Fancy Pheasant is selected with the hope that it will

continue its story in your home — adding warmth, character, and a sense of timeless

distinction that can’t be replicated.



49Grind

Opened on February 9 of this year, 49 Grind is a family-owned and operated coffee

shop built on a commitment to quality, consistency, and faith. As a Christian- oriented

business, we believe every drink and every customer interaction matters. We’re proud

to serve locally-roasted coffee from Northshore Specialty Coffee and strive to create a

welcoming atmosphere where customers can enjoy great coffee and genuine hospitality.

Along with classic coffee favorites, 49 Grind offers house-made energy drinks, Dirty

Alanis, Dirty Red Bulls, loose-leaf teas, matcha and a variety of specialty beverages.

Customers can also enjoy mini gourmet donuts made fresh to order right before their

eyes, as well as breakfast offerings including biscuits, waffle griddles, and a customerfavorite

breakfast burrito. We love helping with group orders, birthday treats, and custom

creations for special occasions.

As we continue to grow, we are excited to add a drive-thru and look forward to

serving Flora and the surrounding community for many years to come.

92 • JULY 2026


The Edit

The Edit is a Madison County boutique with a big heart and an even bigger selection.

Founded in 2021 by Lauren Lynch, The Edit was built on a simple but powerful idea: that

every woman deserves access to beautiful, trendy styles at prices that actually make sense.

From elevated everyday basics and statement dresses to jewelry, shoes, handbags, home

décor, gifts, and self-care finds, The Edit truly has something for everyone — including

children’s and men’s styles. Shoppers can browse and buy from anywhere using The Edit’s

own app, available on Google Play and The App Store, and enjoy free shipping on online

orders over $100. Her newest offering, a personalized quarterly subscription box, takes

the boutique experience to the next level – Lauren hand-picks each box especially for you,

so every season brings something to look forward to.

Customers consistently rave about Lauren’s warm customer service, fast shipping, and

the sense of community she’s built around her brand. Whether you’re shopping in person,

on the website, or through the app, The Edit feels less like a transaction and more like

getting style advice from a friend who genuinely wants you to feel and look good.

Follow along on Facebook and Instagram and join her VIP group to stay up to date on

new arrivals, live sales, exclusive deals, and all things The Edit.


94 • JULY 2026

From Pasture to Plate

Inside Bozeman Meat Company

Trey Bozeman grew up on the family’s traditional cow-calf operation in Flora

centered on raising calves to 600–700 pounds before selling them into the

commodity market. When the pandemic brought challenges, he and his wife,

Mary Dudley, saw a need for a farm-to-table option for families. In 2023, Bozeman

Meat Company began. “We wanted to provide our neighbors with a reliable, local

alternative by retaining our cattle, finishing them ourselves, and selling the beef

directly to our community,” said Bozeman. “When you buy from us, you’re buying

from our farm and from our story.”

Every animal is born and raised on their Flora farm and are pure grass fed and

grain finished. Being a bridge between farmers and consumers is important to the

Bozemans as they wanted to show consumers the process and what is involved in

getting their products to their table. “We noticed a growing interest in locally

raised products being driven by a desire for healthier, more nutrient-dense food,”

explained Bozeman. “Our customers want cleaner beef, which is why we focus on

providing a product free from added hormones, no preservatives or artificial dyes,

and no foreign imports.”

According to Bozeman, approximately 23% of America’s total food imports is

beef from foreign countries. “Knowing where your food comes from is about

more than just transparency; it’s about accountability, quality, and supporting the

producers in your own community,” Bozeman shared. “We pour significant time,

effort, and resources into every aspect of our farming process because we want

every experience you have with our beef to be excellent.”

Bozeman Meat is reliant on their loyal customers across central Mississippi.

Maintaining their core quality standards is key. “We simplify freezer stocking by

offering bulk beef in whole, half, quarter, and eighth shares,” Bozeman stated.

“For those looking for smaller quantities, we also provide a variety of individual

retail cuts available at The Farm Store by Two Dog Farms in Flora.”

While Bozeman has a vision for the future, he’s not obsessed with simply getting

bigger. “We’re obsessed with getting better and our goal is to become a beef staple

across Mississippi while representing quality, trust, and transparency,” Bozeman

assured. “If we can successfully build that connection with our community, we’ll

consider that our greatest success.”

Find Bozeman Meat Company products in Flora at The Farm Store by Two Dog

Farms, Railroad Pizza Company, or contact trey@bozemanmeats.com.

BEEF TIP FROM TREY

A bone-in ribeye cooked over a live fire is about as good as it gets. My method is

to slow-cook it on a grate 18-24 inches above a moderate bed of coals until it hits

an internal temperature of 115-120 degrees. Then build the fire up, drop the grate

directly into the flames, and sear it for 30-45 seconds for that perfect char. Let it rest

for 5-10 minutes and slice family-style. Pair it with a fresh vegetable from Two Dog

Farms and an Argentinian Malbec from Raines Cellars both located in Flora.




StorageMax

Founded in 1994, StorageMax has grown into one

of the leading self-storage providers in the Southeast,

serving customers across Mississippi, Louisiana, and

Alabama. StorageMax is committed to providing

clean, secure, and convenient facilities backed by

exceptional customer service.

Their facilities offer features designed to make

storage simple and stress-free, including climatecontrolled

units, boat and RV storage, contactless

rentals, and complimentary move-in trucks at many

locations. Security remains a top priority, featuring

gated access, high-definition security cameras, and

advanced smart-entry technology to protect customers’

belongings.

Now with 39 locations across the Southeast,

StorageMax continues to provide a trustworthy and

convenient storage experience, giving you confidence

and peace of mind while storing the items that matter

most.

96 • JULY 2026


Mississippi Bees

Mississippi Bees Honey Company is a family-owned business built on a lifelong

passion for beekeeping. Founder Frank Garletts first became interested in bees as

a young Boy Scout while working toward his beekeeping merit badge. Years later,

Frank found himself drawn back to beekeeping and decided to give it another try

with his family.

What began as a small family venture selling honey at the Mississippi Farmers

Market has grown into a thriving business, with Mississippi Bees Honey products

now available in grocery stores and restaurants throughout the South. Today, they

continue to provide customers with quality honey while sharing the story and passion

behind their family business.

Mississippi Bees is buzzing more than ever as the family-owned business continues

to expand into new locations and introduce new products. Owners Frank and Tammie

Garletts work alongside their daughter, Frankie Wharton, who helps with marketing,

honey processing, and managing customer orders. What began as a small family

passion has grown into a thriving business, bringing local honey to more communities

across the region while remaining rooted in the values and traditions that started it all.

To find Mississippi Bees Honey products near you, visit their website and use the

store locator to explore retail stores and restaurants that carry their honey.



Runnels Insurance

TWENTY YEARS SERVING FLORA

Since opening its doors in Flora in 2006, Runnels Insurance has built its reputation on

something that never goes out of style: taking care of people. Founded by Rusty and Pam

Runnels, the independent agency provides home, auto, life, renters, and commercial

insurance to individuals, families, and businesses throughout the area. By representing

multiple carriers, Runnels is able to help customers compare coverage options and find

solutions that fit their needs. The agency has grown alongside the community, serving

generations of local families while remaining committed to the personal relationships

that have defined the business from the beginning.

That commitment to customer service remains at the heart of everything the agency

does today. Rusty often says, “Our clients are the big fish in our pond,” reflecting the

team’s belief that every customer deserves attention, respect, and personal service.

Another favorite is, “We keep the cookies on the bottom shelf,” meaning insurance

should be understandable and accessible, not confusing or intimidating. That philosophy

has helped earn the agency recognition, including Foremost Insurance’s Premier Plus

designation and a recent Top 10 Agency honor from the Mississippi Insurance Alliance.

More importantly, it has earned the trust of the Flora community for nearly twenty

years and counting.

98 • JULY 2026

RiverHills Bank Coming

Soon To Flora

www.riverhillsbank.com


RiverHills Bank

RiverHills Bank is proud to bring a new branch to Flora, reinforcing our commitment to community banking and personalized service.

This investment reflects our belief in Flora’s future and our dedication to building lasting relationships with local families, businesses,

and community organizations. As always, decisions will be made locally by people who understand the needs of the community.

The Flora branch will combine modern banking convenience with the hometown service RiverHills Bank is known for. By establishing

a permanent presence in Flora, we look forward to supporting local growth, strengthening community partnerships, and serving as a

trusted financial partner for years to come.


100 • JULY 2026

The Flora Outlet

Hidden Gems & Hometown Charm

“People tell us all the time they never know what they’re going to find,

and that’s part of the fun.”

–Jeanie Lammons, Owner

Tucked just off Highway 49, The Flora Outlet has become a favorite

destination for shoppers looking for unique finds, stylish furnishings,

thoughtful gifts, and a welcoming small-town shopping experience.

More than just a retail store, it reflects the charm, hospitality, and entrepreneurial

spirit that make Flora such a special place to call home.

For owner Jeanie Lammons, the journey began long before The Flora

Outlet opened its doors. For years, she sold home furnishings and specialty

items through rented booth spaces, building a loyal following and discovering

a passion for helping people find pieces they loved. When Lammons

and her husband moved to Flora, an opportunity to open a storefront

presented itself.

“The Flora Outlet grew out of something I had already been doing

and loving,” Lammons shared. “When we moved to Flora, the opportunity

came along to open a storefront, and it felt like the right time to take that

next step.”

Nearly two years later, that leap of faith has grown into a thriving

business that continues to delight customers with an ever-changing

selection of merchandise and affordable prices. From florals and seasonal

items to clothing, jewelry, furniture, wall art, lamps, and unique accents,

shoppers never know exactly what they will discover. “We bring in new

merchandise every few weeks, so every visit feels different,” Lammons

said. “There is always something new to see, which keeps things fun and

exciting.”

Setting it apart from other stores is the care that goes into selecting

merchandise for The Flora Outlet. Lammons personally chooses many

of the items in the store, looking for pieces that are stylish, unique, and

offer customers something a little different from what they might find

elsewhere. “I want to offer things that feel special and that customers may

not find everywhere else,” Lammons explained. “We are not a big-box

store, and you are not going to walk in and see the same things you see

everywhere else.”

While the merchandise draws people in, it is the relationships that

keep them coming back. Lammons credits much of the store’s success to

the support of the Flora community and the connections she and her staff

have built along the way. “One of the things I value most about being a

small-business owner is supporting other small businesses whenever

possible,” described Lammons. “I appreciate the relationships

we have built locally and believe small businesses are stronger

when we support one another.”

That sense of community is reflected in the way customers

are welcomed and served each day. Whether helping someone

find the perfect gift, choose a statement piece for their home,

or simply offering decorating ideas, Lammons and her team

enjoy making the shopping experience personal and enjoyable.

Seeing familiar faces return again and again is one of the most

rewarding parts of owning the business. “When people tell me

they love shopping here and they love the prices, it means so

much to me,” Lammons said with a smile. “They leave excited

because they found exactly what they wanted, or something

they did not even know they needed.”

In a world where shopping has become increasingly

impersonal, The Flora Outlet continues to prove that great

customer service, unique merchandise, and strong community

connections never go out of style. Whether customers are

searching for the perfect gift, a special piece for their home, or

simply a friendly face, they will find more than just a store.

They will find a place that reflects the heart and hospitality of

Flora itself. As The Flora Outlet continues to grow, its

commitment to serving customers with warmth, value, and

genuine hospitality remains at the center of everything it does.



Flora Pharmacy

Walk into Flora Pharmacy on any given day, and chances

are you’ll be greeted by name before you ever make it to the

counter. In a world increasingly dominated by self-checkouts,

call centers, and corporate healthcare systems, Flora

Pharmacy has built its reputation on something refreshingly

simple: relationships. Since opening its doors in 2016, the

locally owned pharmacy has become a trusted fixture in the

community, serving thousands of patients while maintaining

the small-town feel that first inspired its creation.

For owner Mary Beth Hardy, serving others has always

been part of her story. Raised in a family deeply rooted in

health-care, she saw firsthand the impact compassionate

care can have on people’s lives. When she and her husband

recog-nized a need for greater access to pharmacy services in

Flora, they decided to create something that went beyond

filling prescriptions. They wanted a place where people felt

seen, heard, and cared for. Eight years later, that vision still

shapes every aspect of the business.

What sets Flora Pharmacy apart is not just the services

it offers, but the way those services are delivered. From

immunizations and medication reviews to home delivery

and its newly established drug takeback program, the team

works to meet patients where they are. The pharmacy has

become a place where people turn not only for healthcare

guidance, but also for reassurance during difficult seasons of

life. Whether helping someone navigate a new diagnosis or

finding affordable medication options, the staff approaches

every interaction with empathy and genuine concern.

That commitment extends beyond the pharmacy walls.

Flora Pharmacy regularly participates in community events,

school programs and local initiatives, investing in the town

that has supported them from the beginning. Through

challenges like the pandemic and the everyday demands of

running an independent business, one thing has remained

constant: a belief that healthcare should be personal.

In Flora, that belief is alive and well, one conversation,

one prescription and one neighbor at a time.


102 • JULY 2026

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TheTime COIN

Camille Anding

“Put it on the list!”

It’s been a household slogan of mine for multiple years. There’s an on going grocery list that I keep

by the fridge and a similar one for all sorts of items that I list on my phone. I try to make it a constant

to list items when I’ve used the last one or emptied a box. The list makes for a more organized life.

I suppose my list-making dates back to my high school days. There were assignment lists that

were important to keep and lists of important facts that our teachers promised to ask on final exams.

College lists carried greater weight. There were listings of grades outside professors’ doors that

I sometimes asked a friend to check on for me. Chemistry lists were the most threatening. Grading

on the curve was a new experience for me, but how I grew to appreciate it in chemistry class.

One of my most exciting and joy-filled lists was the one I made for wedding guests.

There were lists for showers – those attending and the list of gifts. Then there was an

important list for thank-you notes. Mother reminded me that regardless of my new life

as a wife it was absolutely necessary to keep a list of the thank you notes I wrote for

all our wedding gifts.

Quicker than I could have ever imagined, I was going down store aisles with

a school supply list for our children. Then there was a list for required vaccinations

and a long summer reading list of books. The lists never ended. As my parents aged,

and we switched many roles, I kept medicine lists for their doctors’ visits. There were

dietary lists of what they could and couldn’t eat and a list of appointment dates for

doctor visits.

Years ago, I remember being in a Wednesday night church service where the

pastor read a long list of prayer needs for members and other special needs outside

our immediate church family. It was always a long list of names – the hospitalized,

the bereaved, those facing surgery, those recouping from surgery, our military, the

missionaries and church ministries and always a growing list of the sick.

When our pastor asked us to divide into small groups to pray for those listed, Othel whispered,

“Someday we’ll be on this list under one of these categories.” It was an unsettling thought, but it was

a thought every individual should ponder and digest. There’s no way other than the Rapture that

believers won’t be on a list of the sick, the dying, or the bereaved–someday.

Such thoughts always turn me to the most important list ever written – the names in the Lamb’s

Book of Life. That’s ultimately the only list that will matter. It’s hard to imagine anyone neglecting

“so great a salvation” offered and paid for by the List Maker.

106 • JULY 2026


108 • JULY 2026

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