Lisa L .Bynum

eat.drink.Mississippi

Today’s Special: Sleuth and Salad

eat. drink. Mississippi
February 2012

Imagine taking a date to a nice restaurant to enjoy a romantic dinner. Just as you bring your fork to your mouth to savor that first mouthful of food, you hear a ruckus coming from somewhere in the restaurant. Suddenly shots ring out, the crowd parts, and a dead body lies on the floor. Where did the shots come from? Is the killer still on the loose? The authorities arrive and begin questioning everyone in the restaurant. Your romantic dinner suddenly becomes a quest to solve a murder. Your evening is just not going as you had planned.

Or is it?

Turns out the dead body lying on the floor and the police officer questioning your involvement are just one of the many comedic actors and actresses that make up Mississippi Murder Mysteries, LLC. Founded in 2005 by actress Alahna Stewart, the troupe is made up of 14 men and women who by day work as doctors, lawyers, school teachers, artists, and business professionals. By night they bring to life the zany characters found in the troupe’s original scripts.

“Mississippi Murder Mysteries provides a different type of entertainment than just going to the theatre or dining out,” explains Tom Lestrade, current owner and managing director of the company. “Each performance is an interactive experience. There is no set show and no set stage. Much of the acting is improvisational and relies heavily on audience participation.”

The company currently performs between 30-40 shows a year. Each show is based on an original script written by one of the cast members. The four-act plays are centered around a three-course meal, with each act lasting between 15-20 minutes. The storyline is usually has a theme based on the season, venue, or event. At the end of the performance, the audience is asked to guess “who dunit.” Many performances are staged at restaurants across Mississippi. However, the troupe also provides entertainment for private events such as anniversaries, birthdays, corporate events, and wedding receptions. The group is also available for out-of-state performances.

For those looking to show off their acting chops, Lestrade encourages an interested actor or actress to attend one of their rehearsals. While there is no formal audition process, most members are active or have been active in community theater. Therefore, some acting experience is preferred. The troupe meets 2-3 evenings a week to rehearse.

As for who shot the patron in restaurant, you’ll have to attend a show to find out. However, make your reservation soon as shows fill up quickly.

For a schedule of upcoming shows and venues or to book a performance:

Mississippi Murder Mysteries, LLC
601-668-2214
www.missmurdermystery.com

eat.drink.Mississippi

Leaving a Legacy: Craig Noone

eat. drink. Mississippi
February/March 2012

On the morning of October 14, 2011, the city of Jackson woke to the stunning news that it had lost one of its brightest young visionaries. As news spread of the tragic automobile accident that took the life of Craig Noone, founder, owner and head chef of Parlor Market, stories began to emerge not only of his great talent as a chef and entrepreneur, but of his kindness and compassion for others.

A Jackson native, thirty-two-year-old Noone’s culinary career spanned worldwide, from Texas to Italy. He returned to Mississippi in 2009 to take part in the revitalization of downtown Jackson, laying out plans to open a restaurant that would pay homage to his Southern roots. Along the way, Noone recruited some of the best and brightest young talent in the industry.

“Craig liked to say he was the best ‘hirer’ in the nation,” said Ryan Bell, sous chef at Parlor Market. “He liked to surround himself with people he thought were better than him.” Bell, along with Chef de Cuisine Jesse Houston, packed up all their belonging and moved from the Dallas-Fort Worth area to Jackson to help Noone make his restaurant a reality. With his dream team assembled, Noone opened Parlor Market on West Capitol Street in downtown Jackson in September 2010.

Noone’s aspirations encompassed more than just the success of his restaurant. His vision included raising Jackson to new heights as a food lover’s city. He frequently invited other talented chefs to visit his hometown and encouraged them to open restaurants of their own.

“He didn’t care that these chefs could turn into potential competition,” commented Houston. “He wanted better food to be available in Jackson. He wanted Jackson to become like Atlanta, Chicago, and New York City.”

Specializing in Southern Cuisine with a regional flair, Parlor Market’s menu features everything from new takes on old favorites – like their smoky pimento cheese – to wild game. Noone was a big advocate of utilizing local as much as possible, which is reflected in the menu items.

“We use a lot of local produce,” explains Houston, who shops at a local farmer’s market once a week to select ingredients. “Our dishes feature regional fish and meat; quail. All of our seafood comes from the Gulf coast.” The menu items change to take advantage of what is in season.

“Craig was always looking for ways to push boundaries by researching other restaurants and different types of food,” recalls Houston. “Our first menu was comfortable while still pushing the envelope. Since then, we’ve added even more exciting dishes as we experiment with different cooking methods and techniques.”

While he was alive, it was common to find Noone patrolling the dining room, greeting guests and making them feel welcome. Although his face is no longer among the crowds that fill the restaurant during lunch and dinner hours, Parlor Market’s staff has continued to keep his legacy going through Noone’s various charitable interests. This includes establishing a Jackson chapter of the Miracle League, a non-profit organization that constructs baseball fields for disabled children. Parlor Market has already participated in one fundraiser to help raise the nearly $300,000 needed to build the field and they have plans to remain involved in a cause that was so close to Noone’s heart.

“We are still going strong and still going to continue to do what we intended to do when we opened the restaurant – educate people on different food and different products,” adds Bell, “We are going to continue to push the envelope in Mississippi.”

Parlor Market
115 W. Capitol Street
Jackson, MS 39201
601-360-0090
http://www.parlormarket.com

Tuesday – Friday
11:00 am – 2:00 pm
4:30 pm – 10:00 pm

Saturday
11:00 am – 2:00 pm
5:30 pm – 10:00 pm

Closed Sunday and Monday

Donations for the Craig Noone’s Miracle League of Jackson can be sent to 115 W. Capitol Street, Jackson, MS 39201. Checks should be made out to ‘Craig Noone’s Miracle League of Jackson.’

eat.drink.Mississippi

Feeding Mississippi: Mississippi Food Network

eat. drink. Mississippi
December 2011/January 2012
Article and photos

There is no other time of year more closely associated with food than the holidays. Magazines dedicate entire issues to preparing the perfect holiday feast while fitness gurus preach about how to avoid the inevitable weight gain. However, for almost 600,000 Mississippians that live below the poverty level, a festive and food-filled holiday season seems more like an unattainable dream rather than a reality.

For over 27 years, the Mississippi Food Network (MFN) has been providing food and personal items to families in need all across the state. But what exactly does the face of hunger look like? Many may assume it only includes the homeless. However, hunger can affect working families that either don’t bring in enough income to meet their day-to-day needs or are hit with an unexpected expense that puts a strain on their finances. This means single parents or senior citizens who must choose between paying for a doctor’s visit or buying groceries. It also includes over 211,000 children that don’t receive enough food to meet their daily nutritional requirements.

“Ninety-seven percent of what we raise goes into funding programs to feed hungry people,” says Marilyn Blackledge, Director of External Affairs at MFN. “We try to utilize volunteers as much as we can to keep administrative costs down, in addition to holding food drives and purchasing items in bulk to receive discounts.”

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From its humble beginnings in 1983 in a 4,000 square foot converted church and abandoned fire station, the organization has grown to include 80,000 square feet of storage and office space, including its main warehouse in Jackson and a distribution center in Brookhaven. Throughout the year, MFN raises funds and stocks their shelves in a variety of ways. At the community level, the organization works with local companies to sponsor food drives in addition to raising money through individual donors, grants, and corporate sponsors.

As an affiliate member of Feeding America, the nation’s leading domestic hunger-relief charity and food bank network, MFN receives both food and monetary donations from several major corporations and retailers. In September, MFN was one of three food banks in the United States to win 30,000 pounds of chicken from Tyson Foods through a Facebook challenge in honor of Hunger Action Month.

“This will provide 120,000 servings of protein for us to distribute to our member agencies,” says Blackledge. “It is great to get a truckload of protein donated because we typically purchase staple food items with the funds we raise because they go further and are more affordable for us to purchase.”

Much of the food MFN takes in is distributed to over 320 outreach agencies across the state, including food pantries, shelters, soup kitchens, and Boys & Girls Clubs.

“There are a lot of children in Mississippi who the only meal they eat for the day is what they are served in school,” adds Blackledge. The organization feeds around 450 children through their Backpack Program, which provides backpacks full of non-perishable items for these children to take home to eat on the weekend. It also supplies healthy snacks such as fruit, milk, and peanut butter crackers to Boys & Girls Clubs throughout the Delta, in addition to breakfast and lunch via summer feeding sites and other afterschool programs around the state.

During the holidays, the organization does see an increase in need. All member agencies pack holiday packages for their clients and rely heavily on food drives to meet the demand.

“There are three ways people can help – donate money, donate food, or volunteer,” says Blackledge. “With the funds we raise, we purchase truckloads of food at wholesale cost, meaning every dollar we raise can provide seven meals. This is the best way for people to help us because we can stretch those dollars into more food. However, we always welcome groups or companies to conduct food drives for us. We get a lot of quality product that way.”

For individuals interested in donating their time, MFN hosts regular volunteer days on the second Saturday of every month from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. at their main warehouse in Jackson. Groups or individuals interested in helping during the week are encouraged to call and schedule a time.

“Donations during the holidays are important. However, the demand for our services is year round,” adds Blackledge. “Our member agencies are serving more than 120,000 people each month and this number continues to grow.”

The Mississippi Food Network
440 W. Beatty Street
Jackson, MS 39201
601.353.7286
http://www.msfoodnet.org

eat.drink.Mississippi

Burgers, Fries, and Times Gone By: Brent’s Drugs

eat. drink. Mississippi
December/January 2012
Article and photos

In a time when the past is often forgotten in favor of the latest and greatest, a drive through the Fondren District of Jackson provides a refreshing snapshot into the city of yesteryear. The neighborhood streets, dotted with retro art deco architecture, pays homage to what many refer to as a simpler time. Fondren is also home to one of the city’s most beloved landmarks – Brent’s Drugs.

Pull into the parking lot of the Woodland Hills shopping center and the bright neon-red cursive of the Brent’s Drugs sign is one of the first things to catch the eye. Even though the restaurant and popular community hang out looks like something straight out of American Graffiti or Happy Days, at the time it opened in 1946, it was ahead of its time.

In the early 1940’s, an innovative land developer named Ed Morgan purchased a parcel of land with the intent of building something that was all the rage in California but no one in Mississippi had ever heard of – a shopping center. Dr. Alvin Brent was among Morgan Center’s first tenants when his combination pharmacy and soda fountain opened its doors in 1946. The shopping center, later renamed Woodland Hills, remains the oldest shopping center in Mississippi.

Brent’s Drugs Jackson, MS

Brent’s Drugs front window

Brent’s Drugs dining room

Brent’s Drugs 65th anniversary

Making milkshakes

Neon sign in Brent’s Drugs

Dr. Brent’s son, Dr. Alvin Brent, Jr., was in the second grade when his father opened the establishment. “I remember thinking it wasn’t a good idea,” he said. “I was worried it wasn’t going to work out.” Brent’s fears were put to ease, however, when the soda fountain quickly became a popular after school hangout.

“You had the Duling School, Bailey Junior High School, and Murrah High School all close by,” Brent explains. “School let out at 3:15 in the afternoon and by 3:30 this place was full. Everyone raced to get here.”

Jerry Q. Tanner, Sr., another long-time patron, remembers how Brent’s became a frequent stop for local politicians looking to get some face time. “During elections, every politician from the Governor to the Lt. Governor would be in here shaking everybody’s hand.”

Brent, Sr., owned and operated Brent’s Drugs for 31 years before selling it to two long-time employees – pharmacists Paul Heflin and Bob Grantham. Grantham would later become sole owner of the establishment, selling it to pharmacist Randy Calvert in 1995. In 2009, the pharmacy-side of the business was sold to national drug-store chain CVS. Suddenly, the long-time neighborhood hangout threatened to close its doors forever.

Fondren resident Brad Reeves remembers the day in 2009 when he got a call from a friend to meet up for dinner. “He asks me if I wanted to buy Brent’s Drugs. I was already practicing law at the time and my initial reaction was ‘No.’” Later, when Reeves found out that the Calvert’s would be shutting down unless they found a buyer, he changed his mind. Reeves purchased the restaurant sans pharmacy in July of 2009.

With the exception of the pharmacy, Brent’s has remained relatively unchanged over the years. In addition to classic decor, the “self-service” order process provides another unique dining experience. Patrons fill out their own menu card, either at their table or at the bar. Selections include hamburgers, sandwiches, French fries, and Southern favorites like pimento cheese. Don’t forget to try one their famous milk shakes. Customers then take their menu card up to the counter and hand it to one of the servers.

In 2011, the small hometown hangout gained national notoriety with its onscreen debut in the film adaption of Kathryn Stockett’s novel, The Help. Because Brent’s Drugs is mentioned in Stockett’s book, Reeves contacted Lex Williams of Inverness who was working with the location coordinator for the film, Steve Mapel.

“He [Steve Mapel] came and looked at the restaurant. He liked what he saw, the only problem was we were a functioning restaurant,” Reeves explains. “We would have to shut down for a few days, but we would be compensated for any lost revenue.”

Brent’s Drugs turquoise barstools

Brent’s Drugs 65th anniversary cake

Brent’s Drugs gift shop

Brent’s Drugs menu

Reeves agreed and filming took place over one week in September 2010. “The night before they were supposed to start, I walked into the restaurant and it looked like I had just stepped into a time warp,” he recalls. “They did an amazing job with the research and the details. It really looked like you had just stepped back into 1963.”

Ed Swinney, who worked the soda fountain from 1953 – 1968 before leaving to become the first African American police officer for the Jackson Police Department, approved of the authenticity of the movie. “I was really impressed by the individual they chose to play the young man behind the counter in the movie,” Swinney commented. “I don’t know where they found him, but as I watched the film, I thought, ‘That could have been me back then.’”

The Help opened in August 2011 and quickly skyrocketed to the #1 movie in the country. Since then, Brent’s Drugs has gotten visitors from all over the country and even as far away as England and Africa.

“The movie is about to open in Europe, so we recently had a group of European journalists come in who were touring some of the movie locations,” Reeves reveals.

Six decades after opening its doors, Brent’s Drugs celebrated its 65th birthday. The celebration, which took place in October, brought together previous owners, employees and long-time patrons who recalled fond memories and shared their stories with a new generation of enthusiasts over burgers and milkshakes. The world has changed, but Brent’s Drugs continues to stand as a tribute to times gone by.

“There are not many businesses still around after 65 years,” Reeves adds. “This place represents the people that have lived and grown up in Jackson.”

Brent’s Drugs
655 Duling Avenue
Jackson, MS 39216
601.366.3427
http://www.brentsdrugs.com
Monday – Saturday 10am – 5pm
Sunday – 11am – 2pm

Godwin Blog

How to Make Your Brand More “Pinteresting”

GodwinGroup Blog
November 23, 2011

A few months ago, I was introduced to the latest social media craze—Pinterest. If you are familiar with the site, then you know it has the capacity to cause huge chunks of your day to disappear. Described as a virtual pinboard, it gives users the ability to visually bookmark interesting content from the Web onto one of their boards. You can have one board or many, and most boards follow some sort of theme. The best part is that you can share your boards with others. Much like Facebook and Twitter, other users can choose to follow all of your boards or just the ones that interest them.

At first glance, Pinterest may seem like an endless sea of DIY home projects, craft ideas, and recipes. However, delve a little deeper and you will discover that Pinterest can be utilized as an effective marketing tool, especially within industries that have a visual aspect.

Read the entire article here.

Parents & Kids

Predictability, Please: The Benefits of Establishing a Daily Routine

Parents & Kids Magazine
August 2011

View original publication

As summer vacation begins to wind down, your children may not be the only ones dreading the beginning of a new school year. Just the thought of getting up early again, getting to school and work on time, helping with homework, and managing bedtimes can leave you feeling exhausted. Taking the time to establish a routine for your children once school is back in session may just help to alleviate much of the stress and confusion.

Pediatricians, teachers, and yes, even your mother-in-law , stress the importance of routine and structure in a child’s life. Why? Let’s put things into perspective: As adults, we have some amount of control over certain aspects of our lives. We have the ability to make decisions about our schedules, workloads, appointments, and many other factors that affect us. Now, imagine if, from day-to-day, you never knew what to expect – where you were going, what you were doing, when you would eat, when you could rest. Eventually the stress of the unknown would take its toll.

Establishing a structured daily routine provides children with a sense of safety and security. This reduces anxiety, stress, and all those less-than-wonderful behavioral issues that can result (think temper tantrums). Knowing what to expect allows a child to exhibit more self-control, promotes self-esteem, and reassures him that his daily needs will be met. Eliminating stress at home also leads to better performance in school and fewer behavioral problems.

Developing a daily routine is easy. First, sit down and outline what tasks need to be accomplished every day. For older children, you may find it helpful to post a daily checklist. Children are able to consult the list, check off the items they have completed, and see a reminder of the items left to do. Providing a checklist gives your child a sense of responsibility and empowerment while taking much of the burden off the parent.

Keep the schedule simple; trying to follow a complicated agenda will only result in confusion and frustration. Children learn by example, so try to develop a routine for yourself as well. If your kids see you doing the same thing every day in the same order, they will begin to follow suit. Following a routine facilitates everyone getting out the door in a calm, timely manner and arriving at school or work on time.

After-school routines are also important. Once a child returns home, there are homework assignments to complete, supper to be prepared, next–day preparations to be made, and bedtime routines to oversee. To make evenings go more smoothly, designate a place for children to store all their belongings. This includes book bags, shoes, jackets, sports equipment, and toys. Not only will this reduce clutter in your house, but it will eliminate the frantic chaos that ensues first thing in the morning when homework is forgotten and shoes go missing.

If your child is old enough to have homework, be sure to set some ground rules. You may want him to finish all his homework before he is allowed to have freetime, or you may decide to give him a few minutes to himself before he hits the books. Whatever you decide, make sure you clearly convey to your child what is expected of him. Give him a clean, quiet spot where he has enough space to spread out books and papers. Once his assignments are finished, have him pack his book bag for the next day.

Finally, establishing a bedtime routine will help make evenings more relaxed. Bedtime routines may include a warm bath and 20-30 minutes of calm activity such as reading a story, doing a puzzle, or listening to soft music. If the child is calm and relaxed, he is more likely to fall asleep quickly and remain asleep through the night.

Remember that life is not always predictable, and occasionally situations arise where you will need to deviate from your schedule. Be flexible, and if possible, let your child know of schedule changes beforehand so he will be prepared. Daily routines set the framework for success later on in life. By surrounding your child with balance and structure, you are laying the groundwork for a happier and more satisfying family experience.

Parents & Kids

The Great Debate: Work or Stay-at-Home. Which is Right for You?

Parents & Kids Magazine
July 2011

Click here for PDF of this publication.

If you examined the average American family forty years ago, you would find most fathers provided financial support while the mothers served as primary caregivers. In 1969, the U.S. Census Bureau reported nine million stay-at-home mothers. During the 1970’s and 80’s, gender roles began to lose their distinction as women became more aggressive in the workplace. Today, the number of stay-at-home mothers has dropped to five million.

On the other hand, the number of stay-at-home fathers rose for the third straight year in 2010. Many men – finding themselves unemployed due to the recent economic downturn – are choosing to adopt the role as primary caregiver while the mother works. The Census Bureau reports there are now 154,000 stay-at-home fathers nationwide.

Today, the question of whether to work or stay-at-home is no longer dictated by societal norms, but instead influenced by personal factors within each family. Whatever you decide, keep in mind there is no right or wrong decision. Each family is different and it’s important to do what is best for you and your child.

What are some factors I should consider when making the decision to work or stay at home?

First and foremost, can your family afford to live off one income? Sit down and take a look at your family budget (if you don’t have a family budget, now is a good time to create one). Are there areas you can cut back or eliminate altogether? Or do you enjoy having money for extras like eating out and family vacations? Also, take into consideration how much money you will be giving up. The cost of childcare is among a family’s biggest expense – in Mississippi it averages around $7000 or more a year. Coupled with the cost of gas for your daily commute and other incidentals like dry cleaning and work attire, you may not be contributing as much as you thought.

Second, are you okay with someone other than you or your spouse playing an active role in raising your child? If your child’s caregiver is a trusted family member, neighbor, friend, or daycare worker this may be a non-issue. Also, how do you think your child will handle the situation? Some children love the social interaction that daycare provides and thrive. Others may experience separation anxiety and not cope as well.

Third, will choosing to stay at home hurt your career? There is absolutely nothing wrong with wanting to be a good parent and wanting a great career. However, if you remove yourself from the workforce for an extended period of time, will this set you back? There are things you can do to stay involved in your profession, such as doing freelance work and staying active in professional associations.

What are the pros and cons of being a working parent?

Pros:

More income.
More security if one person loses their job.
Instilling in your children a good work ethic and teaching them time management skills.
Opportunity to get out of the house and regularly interact with other adults.
Feelings of self-worth – Not everyone will be happy in the role of full-time caregiver. Some need to find other outlets so they don’t feel they have lost their identity.
Preparing your child for school by providing socialization opportunities.

Cons:

It’s likely someone else will witness your child’s firsts – first step, first word, etc.
Feeling like you are missing out – If you have a demanding job that requires you to work long hours or your organization is not family-friendly, you may end up missing a lot of doctor’s appointments, school plays, and sports activities.
Not being able to spend enough time with your child.
Lack of free time – when your life demands a lot, there normally isn’t time left for you.

For 13.7 million single parents who serve as the sole breadwinner for their family – staying at home is not an option. It is common – even if you have the choice to stay at home and opt to work – to have feelings of guilt over leaving your child every day. It is important to find an appropriate balance between work and home. If the time you are able to spend together is limited during the days you work, plan fun activities that allow you and your children to connect on your off days.

What are the pros and cons of being a stay-at-home parent?

Pros:

Being able to witness your child’s firsts.
Ability to share more quality time and be available when your children need you.
Ability to establish a daily routine that works for all of you – no early mornings, no rushing to get everyone dressed and out the door.
Ability to volunteer with parent organizations and attend school functions and sporting events.
More control over who influences your child’s life.

Cons:

Feelings of loneliness and isolation – spending the majority of your time with children can cause you to yearn for adult conversation.
Loss of identity or self-esteem – a child isn’t likely to praise you for a job well done like work colleagues are.
As your child gets older and more active, it could become increasingly difficult to provide the stimulation and social interaction they need.
Child may be more “clingy” when introduced to new surroundings or people.
Being a stay-at-home parent doesn’t end at five o’clock. Nor do you get a vacation. Devoting all your time to your family can cause burn out.

Any parent will agree that devoting yourself entirely to your child’s needs and keeping them entertained can easily turn into a full-time job. However, many stay-at-home parents will tell you that it is one of the most rewarding and fulfilling roles they have ever taken on. As with any job, burnout is inevitable. Find ways to give yourself a break and take time for yourself. Take advantage of a mother’s morning out program, volunteer, or become involved in a hobby. You can also find ways to stay connected to the outside world by becoming active in play groups and/or social and professional organizations.

Mississippi Magazine

A Marriage of Old and New

Mississippi Magazine
July/August 2011

An antebellum home just a stone’s throw away from the historic downtown square of Oxford is what attracted a semi-retired Minnesota couple to this Italianate-style home located in one of Oxford’s historic districts. While the location and charm of the home were perfect, several additions built throughout the last century created a few hazards.

“It was all rather willie-nillie,” says designer and architect Julie Spears. “Because the house had many additions over the years, the shape of the roof had become complicated. Parts of the addition in the back of the house had water damage from leaks around the fireplace, termite damage, a low ceiling, and a flat roof that helped contribute to leaks. ”

Despite the sporadic layout, the house still held exciting possibilities. The design of the original structure – which included the master bedroom, foyer, parlor, guest room, and long center hall – provided the perfect foundation for a home remodel that combined the homeowner’s love for antiques with mid-century modern America. As the design process began, the couple expressed their desire to preserve the old character of the original design while still reflecting modern living.

As guests enter through the front door into the foyer, their gaze follows the lines of the long center hall and gallery that pull them through to the back of the house. The floor transitions from original pine floors to modern maple hardwood used throughout the new addition. The hall not only provides an area for the homeowners to display their art and antique collections, but also serves as a visual timeline, allowing visitors to become a part of the progression and evolution of the home.

The flat ceiling from the center hall extends into the dining area at the back of the house. Guests can share a meal or engage in friendly conversation while enjoying views of the landscaped backyard through a large picture window. On the exterior of the house, just above the picture window, a custom copper gutter transforms into a water feature during a heavy Mississippi rainstorm. Runoff from the roof is directed through downward spouts, creating visual interest as water cascades into a small coy pond below.

The dining area is flanked on either side by the kitchen and living areas, which were constructed to match the moderate proportions of the home. However, vaulted ceilings, coupled with a large wall of windows, give the space an open and airy feeling. Custom walnut cabinetry and stainless gas appliances accent the kitchen. A small breakfast nook is outfitted with a built-in leather banquette. A modern custom walnut screen separates the breakfast nook from another alcove utilized as a home office.

A vestibule just off the kitchen transitions into the master suite, which includes the bedroom, sitting area, and master bathroom. The bedroom is original to the house while the sitting area was added to the space in the 1960’s. Unique connecting double doors – constructed from both Golden Oak and Fir – and the antique fireplace mantle were both items the homeowners salvaged from an 1800’s Iowa farmhouse. Combined with red brick floors and muted moss green walls, the sitting area provides a cozy spot to curl up and read a book on a cold winter’s night. The master bathroom includes open, handicap-accessible roll-in showers and modern fixtures. Finally, a small, private screened-in porch provides respite for the couple during warmer months.

On the other end of the house, another larger screened-in porch connects the main home to the guest house nestled just behind the garage. The porch provides the perfect place to relax or get in a morning swim in the small indoor pool. The guest house was designed as a secondary space, complete with kitchen, living area, and private porch. The design is open and airy with several visual elements such as exposed beams and stained concrete floors. Formica countertops and a funky, bright backsplash in the kitchen tie in with with the geometric design of the windows, giving the space a metropolitan vibe.

“The design of this house is meant to celebrate history and beauty,” adds Spears. “It was transformed into a clean, interesting space with good light and also a comfortable back drop for the collections of the owner’s life that animate the house.”

Parents & Kids

Easy Breezy Party Decorations

Parents and Kids Magazine
June 2011

View PDF of original article here.

Your child’s birthday is fast approaching – so much to do; so little time. In addition to mailing out invitations and planning a menu, you also have to consider party decorations. A parent can spend a small fortune purchasing banners, streamers, table decorations, and matching plates and napkins. However, with a little pre-party planning and creativity, you can create most of your party decorations yourself for a fraction of the cost.

Kids love any excuse to play with construction paper and glue. So why not enlist their help along with their friends? Spread out some old newspapers and have an impromptu arts and crafts session right in the middle of your kitchen. Consider buying a roll of butcher or craft paper at your local office supply store and have the kids create their own “Happy Birthday!” banner. You can also cut out letters from magazines or newspapers, enlarge them using a scanner or color copier, and have the kids glue the letters to colored paper. You can then help them string the letters using kitchen twine or yarn to create a unique whimsical banner. Not only will the kids have a blast making the decorations, but they will be thrilled when they see all their hard work on display during the party.

Balloons are a cheap way to decorate a room with a lot of impact. Rather than tying a few balloons here-and-there around a room, buy them in bulk and tie them together in groups. A balloon border around the perimeter of the room will certainly make an impression. Again, enlist the help of a few volunteers or dig out your old basketball pump so you aren’t stuck blowing all those balloons up yourself.

Table decorations could not be easier to make. Buy a few plain white paper tablecloths and have the kids decorate it with crayons, magic markers, or scraps of paper. Another idea is to save the comic section from your newspaper and tape the pieces end to end to fit the table. If you have any old flower pots collecting dust in your garage, consider using them to create a candy topiary for a centerpiece.

Candy Topiary:

7-inch flower pot
6-inch Styrofoam ball
Styrofoam cone (18 inches tall by 6 inches wide)
18-inch-long, 3/4-inch-diameter dowel
4 to 5 bags of assorted fun-size candy bars
Hot-glue gun and glue sticks
Artificial moss or plastic Easter grass

Place the Styrofoam ball into the flower pot. Push the wooden dowel into the center of the Styrofoam ball and then affix the cone over the top of the dowel. You may need to use a little glue to secure the cone in place. Starting at the bottom, decorate your topiary by gluing the candy in rows along the outside of the cone. As you start the next row, overlap the candy slightly over the first row. Continue until the entire cone is covered with candy. Cover the Styrofoam ball with artificial moss or Easter grass.

Finally, don’t throw away those old newspapers. Recycle them into your very own homemade piñata.

Basic Piñata:

2 cups flour
3 cups water
1 large balloon
Several sheets of old newspaper
Paint, crayons, or markers
Colored crepe paper
String
Old paper towel or toilet paper inserts

In a large bowl, mix together the flour and water until it makes a smooth paste. Blow up the balloon and tie off the end. Cut or tear newspaper into 1-inch long strips. Dip the newspaper strips into the flour paste. Overlap the strips all over the balloon, being sure to leave a hole around the balloon knot. Apply two to three layers of paper maché. For a stronger piñata, allow 2-3 hours drying time in between layers.

Give the piñata 2-3 days to dry. Once the paper maché has set, pop the balloon and pull through the opening. Punch two small holes on either side of the opening. Loop a length of string through the holes, leaving enough length to allow you to hang the piñata. Decorate the outside of the piñata with poster paint, construction paper, crepe paper, etc. Once the decorations have dried, fill the piñata with candy and trinkets. Stuff the opening with tissue paper or crepe paper. You piñata is now ready to be hung!

Mississippi Magazine

A Home for Everyone

Mississippi Magazine
Homes and Gardens Edition
May/June 2011

The tree-lined path of Lake Castle Road in Madison offers the perfect backdrop for a relaxing Sunday afternoon drive. The meandering tree line suddenly breaks away to reveal a French antique entry gate and beyond it, the curving driveway and sprawling estate of David and Tracy Ford. Situated on ten acres, the 11,000 square foot home is reminiscent of a French countryside manor.

When the Ford’s first approached husband and wife team Jodie and De’Dee Morgan of Jodie Morgan Construction, Inc., they were looking for something that would fit the active lifestyle of the couple and their two sons – fifteen-year-old David, Jr., and thirteen-year-old Will. “We really wanted something that we could all enjoy as a family, but allow everyone to have their own space,” Tracy says. “Every single room was a specific request.”

One of Tracy’s first requests was a large kitchen and keeping area where guests could make themselves at home when the couple entertains. Cream custom wood cabinetry, copper backsplash, and heart of pine floors complement the granite countertops and stainless Viking appliances. A large central island with a high bar provides the perfect spot for a family meal or for doing homework. Custom built-in shelving crafted from refurbished wood provides storage as well as a place to display family photos and mementos. In the keeping area, the family can watch television or sit by a warm, roaring fire and enjoy their views of the property through large expansive windows. The spacious pantry also doubles as a shelter during inclement weather.

Just off the keeping area lies the piano room. Designed with crisp clean lines, the room provides sweeping views of the rear loggia, landscaped pool area, and fishing pond. After a quick dip in the pool, guests can shower off in the 900 square-foot cabana. The outdoor kitchen and stone fireplace with seating area allows the family to enjoy the outdoors no matter the season. In the distance, the custom designed horse barn with fenced corral can also accommodate extra guests in the building’s furnished loft apartment.

One of the main house’s most unique features is the barrel ceiling of the cross hall, designed specifically as a gallery for displaying the Ford’s art collection. The hallway opens to reveal David’s study and trophy room as well as the Master suite. An avid hunter, the trophy room provides the perfect place for David to showcase some of the prized bounty from his hunting trips. Vaulted ceilings, custom cabinets, and refurbished wood walls round out this sophisticated spin on a modern day “man cave.”

Floor-to-ceiling windows in the Master bedroom let in light as well as scenic views. The his-and-her master bath features a large soaking tub, steam shower with dual shower heads, separate vanities, and mirrored dressing area. Both closets have custom-made adjustable shelving to accommodate the couple’s different needs.

On the opposite end of the house lies the hunting room. A sportsman’s dream, the room provides storage for the family’s hunting equipment, including built-in lockers for apparel. A hollowed out cedar stump serves as the base for a rustic table where the hunters can clean their weapons before storing them in the lighted glass gun case. Next door, the wine room brings new life to old materials. Refurbished brick walls and refurbished wood ceilings give the room a metropolitan look. Climate controls ensure the Ford’s impressive wine collection will stay at the optimum temperature during storage.

Upstairs, the game and media rooms are a prime place for two teenage boys to entertain school friends. Comfortable leather sofas and a ping pong table provide the ultimate space for relaxation. A backlit, custom designed outdoor scene crafted from refurbished wood decorates the bar area. Just off the game room lies the media room. As movie goers relax in the plush leather seats, the lights dim and a curtain opens to reveal a large movie screen perfect for family movie night or cheering on a favorite sports team.

The three upstairs bedrooms were built to suit the needs of the Ford boys as well as overnight guests. Window seats provide a quiet place for listening to music or reading a magazine. The shower walls of the ensuite bathrooms have a touch of flair with inlaid stone. Down the hall is the sleeping nook, where three built-in bunk beds provide overflow sleeping space for the boys’ school friends.

“We don’t just build homes, we build dreams,” says De’Dee. “We thought about the plans for this home for a long time and considered everything the family wanted. We built a specific place for everything from the peg boards in the barn for David’s tools to the lockers in the mudroom for the boys’ sports equipment.”

The entire property is outfitted with the latest in smart home technology. Kiosks throughout the home allow the family to play surround sound audio and video, access the security system, adjust the thermostat, and control the lighting. The system also gives the couple the option of accessing many of these features through their cell phone.

Morgan, who has over thirty years of experience in the homebuilding industry, admits that while the eighteen month construction project was his most challenging project to date, it was also the most rewarding. “The Ford’s residence was one of the most unique and satisfying projects I have ever done,” he says. “This was the fourth home we’ve designed and built for this family. It was fun taking what De’Dee designed, having the Fords willingness and trust to let us be creative, and making this home a reality.”

“Everything was well thought out before it was put to paper,” Tracy adds. “The result was a quality home that can withstand kids coming through in cleats and knocking on the walls, while evolving into when they are in college and we are empty-nesters. We have everything we could have ever wanted in a home, for our needs as a family, and for young and old.”