Hometown Brandon - Fall 2017

volume 4 number 4 

Fall 2017 

Pure Clock Work 

______________________ 

Recreating History 

______________________ 

It’s a Colorful Life

Publisher & Editor 

Tahya Dobbs 

CFO 

Kevin Dobbs 

CONSULTing editor 

Mary Ann Kirby 

Account ExecutiveS 

Dacia Durr Amis 

Administrative Assistant 

Alisha Floyd 

Special Projects Manager 

Brenda McCall 

Staff Photographer 

Othel Anding 

Contributing 

Photographer 

Charla Jordan 

Contributing Writers 

Camille Anding 

Kyle Brown 

Dani Edmonson 

Charla Jordan 

Susan Marquez 

Melanie McMillan 

Leah Mitchener 

Suzanne Rosss 

Layout Design 

3dt 

The media has taken us down the flooded streets in Texas and shown us devastation I would never have 

imagined. Via film crews, I’ve walked through the rows of army cots in gymnasiums and seen the rescued 

push all their belongings in a single plastic bag underneath that cot. I’ve watched strangers helping strangers 

and law officers retrieving a little boy’s hermit crab. 

As the scenes went viral, I saw the America I love and believe in step into action. States in all directions 

began gathering goods, sending truckloads of water and food, hauling private boats to help with rescues and 

sending funds to charities experienced in giving aid. 

We are always most blessed when we give to help others. This issue 

highlights the October 5th National Do Something Nice Day. Hometown 

Brandon challenges our readers to be intentional in joining this impactful 

day and then share your story with us. How encouraging it would be for 

all of us to read an issue filled with good deeds extended to friends and 

strangers. 

Hurricane Harvey has shown us flooding that has broken all records. 

Why can’t we make our own flooding records, flooding our own hometown 

with kindness for others? We’ll help see that those records are reported! 

www.facebook.com 

/hometownbrandonmagazine 

www.HTMags.com 

Contact us at 

info@htmags.com 

601.706.4059 

26 Eastgate Drive, Suite F 

Brandon, MS 39042 

• • • 

Hometown Brandon is published by Hometown 

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advertisements are subject to approval by the 

publisher. The production of Hometown Brandon 

is funded by advertising. 

In this issue The Way We Were ................. 6 

Do Something Nice Day ............ 10 

Pure Clock Work .................. 14 

It’s a Colorful Life .................20 

Recreating History ......... 26 

Treasure Hunting That Rocks! ....... 32 

A Commitment to Great Care ........ 38 

The Vision of Georgia Blue..........50 

Everything’s Coming Up Roses ......60 

Hometown Brandon • 3

4 • Fall 2017

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with salt and pepper, topped with herb mayo and served on toasted country white bread. 

Calories: Whole - 780 | Choose 2 - 390 • $8.49 

©2017 McAlister’s Franchisor SPV LLC 

1490 West Government St • Suite 5 • Brandon • (601) 824-7465 


The 

way 

were. 

we 

Barbara & Rodney Joyner 

Leah Mitchener 

Hank Williams might as well have written 

“Hey, Good Lookin’” about Rodney and Barbara 

Joyner. From a young age, they knew they were 

supposed to be together—Rodney if not more 

than Barbara. “Well, she was just a pretty girl,” 

he said matter-of-factly. “I think I had spied her 

walking down the aisle at the movie theater 

maybe, but I really spied her at a training party 

at Brandon Baptist before it became First Baptist.” 

Barbara was 12 and Rodney was 14 at the time. 

“You know, I just didn’t have a chance,” laughed 

Barbara. From then on, they were two peas in 

a pod. 

During their grade school years, the pair were 

heavily involved in school activities. Rodney was 

president of the student body, a football player 

in the fall, and played trombone in the concert 

band during the spring. Barbara was recruited 

early as a drum major and held the title from 

8th through 12th grade while playing piano and 

the clarinet. She was even named Miss Brandon 

High School. Outside of the classroom, she 

spent a lot of time at her family’s business, 

Overby’s Drug Store. “I grew up jerkin’ sodas,” 

she said proudly. 

While Barbara worked at the soda fountain, 

Rodney devoted his spare time to his love of 

music. “I idolized country music singers, but then 

I met Barbara and she was cultured,” laughed 

Rodney. “Her momma took her to concerts in 

Jackson to hear formal music. I tried to become 

cultured too, so I put country music aside.” 

Though they had a few spats along the way, 

the love bug “bit pretty quick” according to 

Rodney. He started school at Hinds Community 

College before transferring to Mississippi State 

to study mechanical engineering. When he went 

to State, Barbara started studying music at Ole 

Miss. “That year he gave me a ring,” Barbara said 

with a shy smile. 

“That diamond was so small and I had to 

borrow money to buy it,” Rodney explained. It 

cost $135. “Many years later I was able to get one 

you could actually see,” he added jokingly. 

Barbara recalled her father’s vague objection 

to the union saying something along the lines of, 

“Well, if it were left up to me, I wouldn’t accept 

it.” Rodney was from the wrong side of the 

tracks and Barbara’s father didn’t take too kindly 

to the fact that Rodney would take his daughter 

for rides in his flatbed pickup truck when they 


were younger. However, love prevailed and they 

remained engaged. 

The couple married on June 19, 1955. “We 

got married at 5:00 and they had to have the 

church cleared out for training union by 6:00. 

That was on a Sunday afternoon,” said Rodney. 

“Back then, you could have a church wedding on 

a Sunday, so long as it didn’t interfere with 

regularly scheduled church activities.” A reception 

was held at Barbara’s house afterword. 

Rodney finished his degree in mechanical 

engineering at Mississippi State in 1957. By that 

time, Barbara’s father had decided it was time 

for him to get out of the family store, so Rodney 

went back to school at Ole Miss to get a degree 

in pharmacy. Later, he and Barbara and came 

back to Brandon and worked the store. Through 

the years, they both worked hard; Rodney as a 

pharmacist and later as director of pharmacy at 

Woman’s Hospital, and Barbara as a secretary, 

executive secretary at Addie McBryde Center 

for the Blind, and as the church organist for 

First Baptist Church Brandon. 

After their retirements, Rodney decided he 

wanted to get back to his love for country music. 

Enter the era of the Barnyard Opry! He got to 

work converting a dilapidated barn on their 

property into a 260-seat theater where they 

hosted country music concerts. “I thought that 

barn would be a good place to play music. We 

didn’t care if anybody would come. I just 

wanted a place to play,” said Rodney. 

But come they did. They opened their doors 

in September of 1999. By November, they were 

running out of room and needed to expand. A 

concert was held twice a month, every month, 

for 10 full years in which they never missed a 

program. Their concerts were free to the public, 

but donations were taken up to fund a concession 

stand in the back (run by Barbara) and 

sponsors helped pay for insurance coverage 

should there have been any accidents. 

62 years of marriage have narrowed down 

the keys to a successful union for the Joyners. 

Their marriage advice is simple and finite: you 

have to like the person you’re marrying. You 

have to be willing to sacrifice for them, and they 

for you. Their love was built on a foundation of 

faith in God above and a love for family — and 

a big one at that! The couple have two sons, 

Richard and Steven, four grandchildren, and six 

great-grandchildren. Sunday afternoons are 

spent together for a family dinner, where it is 

easy to imagine Rodney singing the phrase 

“Hey good lookin’, whatcha got cookin’?” to the 

love of his life. n 

You have to be 

willing to sacrifice 

for them, and they 

for you. 




National Do Something Nice Day • October 5th 

What’s something you might do for someone 

and what’s something you’d like done for you? 

You’ve probably heard of 

those stories where 50 

cars in a row paid for the 

Starbucks order of the 

person behind them in the 

drive-thru. Those acts of 

kindness likely perked each 

customer’s day up more 

than their coffee did, not 

only because they received 

kindness, but because they 

also gave kindness to 

someone else. 

National Do Something Nice 

Day is recognized annually 

on October 5th. It is a day 

used to emphasize the 

importance and impact 

simply being nice to another 

person can make in their life 

and yours. In today’s harsh 

world, a sweet smile or a 

helping hand can be just 

the thing to make a change 

for the better. 

Being a member of the hospitality state, doing something kind 

shouldn’t be all that difficult. I’d like to simply pay for a person’s 

lunch who serves our state and or country. Whether it be officers 

of the law, our firemen, or our military, they deserve it. And 

in return, all I would like is for someone to notice this act of 

kindness and reciprocate it to another person. 

- Ty Meadows 

I like to do things that might make a 

person’s day better. Maybe a hug or just 

to listen. I’d like the same things for me, 

or maybe surprise me with a little treat! 

Chocolate’s always good! 

- Mary Dunaway 

I would share my water gun, never 

push them, and give them a snack. 

I want them to give me a snack too. 

- Fletcher Collins 

I think paying for the car behind me in 

the drive-thru is an easy, but thoughtful 

way I could make someone’s day better. 

Plus everyone loves free food. 

And something I always appreciate 

is when someone goes out of their 

way to say something positive. 

- Jackson Wood 

I love to surprise someone in the middle 

of the day with a “pick me up” of their 

favorite ice cream, or a sweet card to tell them 

how special they are. I am BEYOND blessed when I come home 

after a long day or two of traveling to a clean house and dinner 

being cooked. That is my reward often from my precious family. 

- Heather Barnes 


I maintain a fleet of 200 vehicles for the sheriff’s department. 

We are a brotherhood and I try to help them out daily with their 

personal vehicle needs. To be honest, I just like for people to greet 

me with a smile. Let’s treat each other with respect. 

- Johnny Overby 

I like to try and be kind to everyone everyday. But on 

October 5th, I might help someone move furniture. 

As for what I’d like, just give me a free cup of coffee. 

- Ashton Frisella 

I will offer to babysit my sister’s kids for free! And I’d like 

for someone to buy me a cup of coffee at Cup’s. It’s only 

$1.69 for a student. 

- Hannah Farris 

I’ve always wanted to do that thing where you pay for the person 

behind you in a drive-thru. Now that I have a big girl job, I can do 

that. I would like to see people be kind to each other. 

That would be the best gift for me! 

- Mary Blair Ward 

I will make a donation to someone in need. There might be kids or 

schools still needing school supplies. That would be a great place 

to help. Let’s just be kind to each other. Show love. I’m not talking 

about being intimate or giving affection, but the kind of love the 

world needs. 

- Ora Buchanan 

When I’m in line for breakfast that morning, I’ll pay for the person 

behind me. And I would like for someone to give me a pedicure! 

- Amy Davis 

I could offer to buy someone’s food at a restaurant. 

I would like for someone to show appreciation for the things I do. 

- Selori Johnson 

I could buy someone’s lunch that day. 

I would really like for someone to wax my truck!! 

- Jason Turner 






Surely it has to be one of the most unusual occupations 

in Mississippi – a horologist who makes house calls! 

Some readers are thinking – what’s a horologist? 

Billy Fortenberry could answer any questions concerning horology – the study and 

measurement of time. That’s because he is a horologist, and he makes house calls to 

repair broken clocks. Whether he’s called a clock doctor or clock mechanic, he appears 

to be a master at his trade since 1990 when he began dabbling with clock repair. 

The hobby/occupation had its roots in a visit to an auction where Fortenberry 

purchased an antique clock in nonworking condition. He proceeded to try his hand 

at fixing it by removing its working parts, oiling them, and putting it back together. 

The clock regained life, and Fortenberry discovered a new love. 

When Fortenberry left his “real” job at Siemens to pursue other jobs, he said about 

horology, “It was my getaway from the world.” It was also the perfect fit for a man with 

brains, patience, and steady hands. 

Fortenberry lists Tom Isbell from South Jackson as being his first mentor. This was 

a major boost for Fortenberry’s education because at that time, elderly clock repairmen 

didn’t like sharing their knowledge for fear they could lose their business to upcoming 

repairmen. Isbell was a locksmith, owned a motorcycle shop and a clock repair business. 

His expertise in “clockwork” gave Fortenberry valuable information and knowhow in 

beginning his quest in horology. 


Three semesters in night school at Jones Junior College added to 

Fortenberry’s clock skills along with knowledge gleaned from his second 

mentor, Joel Dunipace of Ocean Springs. His philosophy concerning 

watch repair describes the value of his expertise: 

“If man made it, man can repair it.” 

Within time, news of Fortenberry’s talent spread due to connections 

he made through word of mouth and the National Association of Watch 

and Clock Collectors. He also joined the state’s Magnolia Chapter 41 

where he has written the newsletter for the last eight years and contributed 

numerous articles. Billy also served as chairman of the restoration 

committee that restored the tower clock in the Lyceum Building at the 

University of Mississippi. 

A native of Tylertown, Fortenberry has lived in Brandon for the past 

thirty-six years and is married to Judy Fortenberry, the Rankin County 

tax collector. They have ten grandchildren, but none seem to show a 

serious interest in carrying on their grandfather’s trade. 

Time-keeping has carried his business, Old Time Clock Shop, 

to multiple states and allowed him to bring life to valuable time 

pieces. His favorite challenges are grandfather clocks. His oldest 

repaired piece was a Lantern clock built in the 1600s. 

Fortenberry’s workshop in his backyard is small – perfect for 

all the small, myriad of pieces that he uses to put the “tick” back into 

clocks. Coils, springs, chiming tubes and delicate instruments line 

the table and shelves. His rule for any visitor, including the 

grandchildren, is: Don’t touch. I know where everything is! 

The phone rings often for this house-call horologist. The Delta is 

his favorite nearby area for his services. The homes along the river 

usually house the most valuable clocks – the works of art that need 

to return to their design of time-keeping. 

“And can you always repair a broken clock?,” I ask. Quicker than 

the swing of a grandfather clock’s pendulum, the accomplished 

doctor of clocks replied, “Oh yeah!” It’s obvious that time never 

stands still for long, once Horologist Billy Fortenberry touches the 

time piece. n 



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Guest Speaker 

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Tickets $10 each. 

For more information please contact 

Lori Farrar at 601-706-2609 

or lfarrar@brandonms.org 




It’s a 

Colorful 

Life 

Leah 

Mitchener 

During my first few years of college, 

I had taken to carrying around a small 

moleskin notebook so that I could jot 

down quotes from my friends and 

professors. For sentimental-yet-forgetful 

me, it seemed like a good way to hold 

onto those fleeting words that seemed 

so important. Years later, I look at my 

tiny ledgers and rarely make sense of 

the phrases because the context is gone, 

and therefore, also the meaning. 

Count it as my feeble attempt at 

proactive posterity–while my short-lived 

habit was started with good intentions, 

it failed to be anything of lasting importance. 

It didn’t have the staying power 

like that of Henrietta Clay’s idea of 

turning them into endearing drawings, 

postcards, and even educational coloring 

books. This is her story of how art and 

words have shaped her life. 

Born in January of 1945, Henrietta 

tragically missed the chance of meeting 

her father by a mere two months. A 

decorated private in the Army, Henry 

Edgar Johnson died in action in Nice, 

France, in November of 1944 at the age 

of 19 in the last battle against Germany 

during World War II. Because of his 

sacrifice, Henrietta later received a full 

scholarship to attend school at Mississippi 

College. 

She finished in just three short years 

with a degree in elementary education 

and a minor in art. “I owe my livelihood 

to him,” she said in regard to her father. 

“I always wanted to be a teacher because, 

that way, you can be a nurse and a 

counselor and an artist and a mother and 

an author”. She was able to be whatever 

her students needed her to be, and that 

is what makes the best teachers so good 

at what they do. 

Mainly teaching 3rd grade for the better 

part of 40 years at Northside Elementary 

in Pearl, Mississippi, she tried to fill her 

classroom with as much art as she could 

saying, “Children need the self-esteem 

that art brings.” Truer words have rarely 

been spoken. Having retired in 2007 

though, she is “so happy now that [she] 

can firmly pursue art and enjoy it.” 

When Henrietta’s husband, Ronnie, 

suffered a serious stroke in late February 

of 2014, she was by his side in the hospital, 

constantly. She needed to find a way to 

pass the time, though. Something to busy 

her idle hands. She packed a small pad of 

watercolor paper and began drawing any 

time he had a doctor’s appointment. Her 

subject matter was varied and fun, mainly 

drawing inspiration from quotes and 

sayings she heard on television or things 

her pastor, Dr. David Jett, would say 

during his sermons. Before she knew it, 

she had over 300 drawings. She began 

taking them to Office Depot to have 

them copied and prepared to send out to 

her friends and family as postcards. 

After a while, Brad, who worked at the 

copy counter, began looking through her 

portfolio of artwork and suggested it 

might be a good time for her to find a 

publisher to take her work to another 

level. Brad helped her get in contact with 

Ramesh at Alphagraphics who, in the 

words of Henrietta, “had a great enthusiasm,” 

and worked with her on how they 

could turn her drawings into a book. 



Though she had the help and guidance 

of Ramesh, her endeavor was not without 

hard work. “I was constantly having 

homework. There was a lot of review, erase, 

and redo,” she said. It took nearly six months 

to complete her first book entitled Don’t 

Count Your Chickens Before They Hatch, 

which was printed in full color and to this 

day remains her favorite of her books. 

Since then, Henrietta has put out 

several stories and coloring books including 

Henrietta’s Hints for Happiness and Henrietta’s 

Art Hints for All Year Long. 

Her products are sold locally at bookstores 

like Bay Window Books in Brandon 

and Lemuria Bookstore in Jackson, as well 

as seasonally at local fairs and craft shows. 

With the help of her granddaughter, 

Henrietta got the Facebook page ‘Henrietta’s 

Projects’ up and running with updates on 

where she will be selling her creations and 

upcoming publications. She and Ronnie 

also brings copies of her cards to the 

hospital ministry at her church for people 

needing a little bit of color in their lives at 

times when they are hurting. 

Ronnie’s stroke was the catalyst for all 

of the work Henrietta has been putting out 

the past few years. “He’s been the number 

one admirer of my cards,” Henrietta said 

of her husband. “I can see a twinkle in his 

eyes if it’s a good one.” Through all of the 

doctor’s visits and back and forth with 

revisions for her books, they have stayed 

strong together. 

Pablo Picasso put it best when he said, 

“Art washes away the dust of everyday life,” 

and that could not be more fitting for a 

kind, creative person like Henrietta Clay. n 


24 • Fall 2017 

Open House • July 6


Recreating 

History 

Dani Edmonson 


“A people without the knowledge of their past history, 

origin, and culture is like a tree without roots.” 

–Marcus Garvey 

Brandon’s roots run deep, but over time, 

some of the branches have fallen off. Buildings 

abandoned. Businesses closed. Merchants 

moved elsewhere. However, there is a movement 

underway in Rankin county, specifically 

Brandon, to fertilize the downtown area in an 

effort to reveal an orchard of beautiful, 

functional historic buildings. 

The architecture in Brandon is steeped in 

historical significance. Unfortunately, life’s 

distractions can make history easy to forget 

and ignore. So how do interesting, old buildings 

help pin Brandon as a worthy destination? 

For one person, Jamie Wier, it began five years 

ago as a Christmas miracle that he now calls, 

The Wierhouse. 

Born in Money, Mississippi, and later living 

in Pearl, Wier found himself drawn to the city 

of Brandon. “I was at the Brandon Christmas 

parade five years ago, and glancing around I 

happened to look at the building located at 200 

Town Square, and I saw a light on.” He realized 

someone must be working in an office that 

night. “I started thinking then, how wonderful 

it would be to live and work in that space, and 

when events such as the parade took place, he 

would be able to sit on that balcony and watch it 

while sharing eggnog with friends and family,” he 

added. That dream has finally become a reality. 

The portion of the building Wier owns was 

constructed between 1880 and 1885. According 

to a passage in Brandon Mississippi – A Pictorial 

History, the first business to occupy it was The 

Barns Store, owned by Wiley G. Barnes. That 

business was mostly mercantile in nature. 

Pictorial History goes on to describe the various 

uses of the building as being a general store, a 

makeshift jail (when the courthouse and jail 

were affected by the fires), some living quarters, 

and offices for doctors and lawyers. “The 

ceiling has an opening to let caskets down to 

the ground floor,” one caption reads. 

Penny Schooler with the Brandon Historic 

Preservation Commission provided definitive 

dates and uses of the building over the years. 

“Webb Douglas Ragland became a partner to 

Mr. Barnes and the new name became The 

Barnes and Ragland Store, selling everything 

from fruit and vegetables to clothing, sewing 

machines, tools, and even caskets,” Schooler 

said. The Barnes family kept the property in 

the family for nearly 100 years, but finally sold 

the property to Bill and Kathryn Humphries 

in 1970, according to Schooler. “They 

continued to run the hardware store until it 

was sold to Charles and Ann Sheppard. The 

Sheppards named it Town Square Antiques.” 

The adjoining building was built in 1883 by 

Richard Shields - one of the oldest families in 

Brandon/Rankin County. Schooler said, 

“The Shields Hardware Store was operated by 

generations of Shields.” Ownership passed 

hands three more times until Wier bought the 

combined units in 2016. 

Throughout time, the Civil War, the Great 

Depression, desegregation, and two large-scale 

fires downtown all took their toll on the city’s 

center—all damaging tentacles of history 

touching the Wierhouse, but none brought 

it down. Instead, those difficult times provided 

the building with additional character. 

According to Wier, “This place tells the stories 

of those who struggled through the past 100 

years. Every morning I wake up and understand 

that I was graciously given another 24 

hours to make a difference in this community. 

It’s not the most relaxing life, but I truly wake 

up with a thankful heart.” Weir attributes his 

gusto for this project to having farmed when 

he was a child. “I chopped cotton. We worked 

year-round in addition to jobs and school. I 

learned early-on that you only get what you 

put into something – and I want to leave a 

footprint of something better than I found it.” 

Wier’s vision to restore 12,000 square feet 

of one Brandon’s venerable buildings did not 

come without its challenges. Expectations run 

high in the restoration of historic property. 

Jordan Hillman, AICP, Community Development 

Director for the City of Brandon said 

that to restore a site on the Historic Registry 

takes time and energy, of which Wier has both. 

From a list of ten “Standards for Rehabilitation,” 

the second directive reads, “The historic 

character of a property shall be retained and 

preserved. The removal of historic materials 

or alteration of features and spaces that 

characterize a property shall be avoided.” 

With a complete understanding of the 

building requirements, and some much-needed 

structural support, Jamie and his family began 

the delicate demolition. 

Wier, an architect, was mindful of the 

necessity to design a place that would satisfy the 

modern mind while maintaining the building’s 

unique and original integrity. Once the building 

was structurally sound to work in, Wier said 



that’s when the fun began. “My wife, Meagan, 

my brother, and my father worked with me to 

uncover beautiful flooring, a picturesque 

staircase, and inviting fireplaces,” he explained. 

Perhaps one of the strangest finds was one he 

pulled out of the rafters. “It’s a frog gig,” he 

laughed. Although a few relics were recovered, 

Wier stated that in addition to more than 60 

whiskey bottles, relics were not the thing that 

impressed him about the structure. “I couldn’t 

believe how well constructed the original 

building was without modern day tools. The 

physical strength it must have taken the 

workers to put together such a solid structure 

blows my mind.” 

There may not be a mini museum of 

interesting artifacts to preview, but throughout 

the entire building, original wood, brick, and 

stucco are prevalent. Dated notes can be seen 

on wood beams and stucco making one feel 

connected to those who came before us. One 

beam bears the year 1903. Others bear 

different days or years. There is even an 

inscription on one patch of stucco that reads 

like a shopping list circa 1916. It is unknown 

why such notations were made on these 

materials, but Wier plans to preserve them 

making the experience of being in the 

Wierhouse that much more authentic. 

“We preserved and reused every item from 

the building that was structurally sound,” Wier 

said. The brick was one area of concern as it 

had deteriorated so much. “I hired one of the 

best brick craftsman I know, Brad Brown. He 

and his father painstakingly replaced nearly 

50% of the brick using brick that is the esthetic 

equivalent of that time period to maintain the 

historical integrity.” When looking at the 

building, one might think every brick was an 

original – that’s how effective the Brown’s 

work was to the project. Wier said he owes a 

great deal to Thrash Commercial Contractors 

as well, a local contractor with the expertise to 

get so many projects completed. “I am proud 

of the fact that all local businesses have been 

used in the restoration of The Wierhouse.” 

Recreating history builds value in a city. 

Hillman said, “The Wierhouse is one of the 

few catalyst projects that will turn downtown 

into a destination again.” And keeping it 

authentic matters. “The feeling you get from 

the old materials cannot be recreated with 

today’s construction methods. That feeling is 

what attracts restaurants and store owners to 

want to occupy a space. It is character; and that 

character is why saving [these buildings] is 

important,” Hillman added. 

“I not only wanted to live here, I wanted to 

live in the heart of Brandon.” Wier will be the 

first occupant, hence its name, Wierhouse. He 

is including four additional rental lofts, which 

will offer a particular advantage to lawmakers 

who frequent the city’s courthouse, positioned 

right across the street. The majority of the 

building will house a restaurant that will provide 

multiple dining experiences. Uniquely, there 

will be atmosphere options for patrons. 

Visiting soccer teams after grueling games as 

well as professionals conducting business will 

have a place there. 

One goal of this restoration is ultimately to 

serve a community he embraces and that 

embraces him back. “We have responsibilities 

in life,” Wier added. “Once I got here and 

became more involved in the community, I 

began to see voids in a town I love. I offered 

my help in different ways to make this a better 

place, and as a result, I’ve been helped a great 

deal to make this dream come true.” Hillman 

echoes Wier’s sentiment regarding Brandon’s 

personality. “During the short three years I have 

worked for Brandon, it has been my experience 

that this community, while physically not 

a small town, is still a small town in values and 

attitude. The willingness of our citizens to 

support each other and the city is impressive, 

and is something I have not experienced to 

this extent in other communities.” 

Schooler added, “The Brandon Historic 

Preservation Commission is so proud to see 

new homeowners who are restoring and 

enjoying the history of their homes. We are 

also proud of the new investments being made 

with our old buildings downtown that have 

been waiting for years for someone to restore 

them.” She added that sitting on the balcony 

more than a century ago, a person would have 

witnessed the last official hanging on July 22, 

1907, or the raising of the confederate soldier 

atop the monument in 1907. 

Through this development, which should 

be totally completed by early 2018, Wier and 

others have exciting plans to maintain Brandon’s 

cultural history, while offering locals and 

visitors unforgettable dinning experiences and 

a place to rest. “We want the building to tell 

our visitors about what life and the people 

were like back then.” He added, “It will not 

just be a restaurant or rental units; it will be 

an experience.” 

While enjoying the next Christmas parade 

through downtown Brandon, glance south to 

The Wierhouse. There, you should see Jamie 

toasting you and the town he loves so much. n 

_________________________ 

Follow The Wierhouse 

on Facebook for incredible photos 

and additional information. 


Join us for Worship on Sunday 

Wednesday Night Supper 

& Activities 

 

Sundays: 

8:309:30 am Early Worship 

9:3510:05 am Angel Choir 

9:4510:30 am Sunday School 

10:4511:45 amMorning Worship 

5:156:00 pm Praise Kids Rehearsal 

67:00pm Evening Worship 

Youth Supper & Worship 

Jesus Plus / Tween’s Place 

6:157:00 Children PreK34th 

Recreation & Devotion 

Wednesday Nights: 

5:30 6:00 pm Fellowship Supper for all ages 

6 7pm Handbell Choir 

6:15 7:15 pm Children’s Bible Study 

 

Tweens Bible Study 

Adult Bible Studies 

 

Youth Worship 

7:00 pm Chancel Choir Rehearsal October 8 - Laity Sunday 

October 15 - Children Sunday 

October 22 - Youth Sunday 

October 29 - Fall Festival 

Brandon First United Methodist Church 

“Where Christ Rings True” 

& Walk the Truth 

205 Mary Ann Drive, Brandon 

601-825-5958 

www.brandonfumc.org 

Facebook Brandon Fumc 


Small Business Success 

in Downtown 

Kyle Brown 

Downtown Brandon is in the midst of a 

transformation. Buildings vacant for years are 

seeing new life. The primary use of Downtown 

Brandon being law offices and government 

buildings is evolving to a place to conduct 

business, shop, and enjoy a meal. 

Four years ago, the block that is made up by 

the old Brandon hotel and Boyce-Thompson 

buildings were mainly vacant until local 

entrepreneur Courtney Frisby and her husband 

Bob leased a corner in December 2013 with a 

vision of opening Cobo’s Boutique’s flagship 

store. Cobo’s helped launch a trend of new 

business openings on and around The Square. 

Over the years Cobo’s and Keri Haralson, 

PLLC, have been joined by several new 

businesses. Jason Coker opened his Shelter 

Insurance office next door to the Black Rose 

Theater. Destiny Tillery Photography soon 

moved into a 1,500-square foot space next 

door to Cobo’s. Xpress Dance has brought a 

variety of dance classes and people to downtown. 

The areas behind these buildings is 

seeing new life. 

Twisted Tails, located in the old Bulldog 

Diner has transformed into Mudbugs 042. 

Next door to Mudbugs, Michael Harris and 

Mike Thompson have opened FitHouse in the 

old laundromat. These businesses have been 

joined by Bay Window Books, P&P Pools, and 

East Brandon Coffee Factory. 

Across the street there are other new 

businesses helping to transform downtown. 

Heather Perry took an underutilized Quonset 

hut, next to Fisher Insurance, and opened East 

Brandon CrossFit. Just across Felicity Street the 

old car dealership building will soon become 

home to 042 Café which will offer plate lunches, 

ready to warm casseroles (takery), and catering. 

New life has been given to building beside 

Trustmark Bank where Sara Leach has opened 

Downtown Pilates and is enjoying significant 

success. 

Along North College Street exterior 

renovations were done to Brandon Discount 

Drugs and the former Merchant and Farmers 

Bank building has been reborn as The Vault, 

a premier event venue. The Vault was a lifelong 

dream of Tahya Dobbs that has now become 

a reality. 

Jamie Wier’s dream of watching the Brandon 

Christmas Parade from a balcony will soon 

come to fruition. The Wierhouse is now his 

home and is Downtown Brandon’s first mixed- 

use building. The Wierhouse renovation will 

soon offer six apartment units thus bringing 

residential opportunities just across the street 

from Black Rose. The Wierhouse and Georgia 

Blue just announced Genna Benna and a bakery 

will be opening in the building in early 2018. 

Adam Woods has located his law firm in 

the Hyche Building next door to Forget-Me- 

Nots. Law firms like Adam’s will soon be able 

to enjoy the new Rankin County Court facility 

that is being built along North Street behind 

the Rankin County News. 

Ramey’s has been reborn, too. The old 

Dollar General location has allowed for 

Ramey’s to drastically expand their store. 

Ramey’s has used their expansion to bring new 

offerings to downtown like their bakery, salad 

and olive bar, larger produce and meat 

sections, and a pharmacy. The exterior has 

been completely changed, one entry point has 

closed, and a new sidewalk along Government 

Street has been poured. 

The growing businesses downtown have 

brought more people which means more cars 

which require more parking and the ability to 

walk between businesses and cross streets. 

The $2.3 million expansion of Government 

Street between Louis Wilson Drive and 

Trickhambridge Road will not only expand 

the road but also include a sidewalk allowing 

people to walk safely into downtown. 

The city will soon embark on a multi-year 

$10 million project to modernize infrastructure 

and improve pedestrian access and parking. 

Downtown Brandon will soon see new water 

and sewer lines to replace old lead-jointed 

pipes. Many of the water and sewer lines in 

downtown are in the street and need to be 

relocated so when a water line breaks in the 

future the city does not have to close the street 

to conduct the repair. Parking will be addressed 

by adding off-street parking and one-way 

streets so parking can be added. Utility poles 

will have to be moved so they don’t obstruct 

sidewalks. These upgrades will put modern 

infrastructure in place for the next generation 

to continue to expand Downtown Brandon. n 


Treasure-Hunting 

that 

Rocks! 

Melanie McMillan 


The phenomenon that has been 

“rocking” the country for some time 

has made its way to the metro area. 

It’s hide and seek with a whole new 

twist, and adults and children alike 

are coming together to have fun 

and spread a little kindness. All you 

need are a few rocks, a brush and 

some paint, and you’re ready to join 

the movement. 

The Madison and Brandon communities have both gotten 

in on the rock painting and hiding craze. No matter which 

town you live in, if you want to get involved, the idea is simple. 

First, paint rocks with whatever design or message you like. 

Then, hide the rocks around town, making sure that they 

aren’t too obscure for people to find. Finally, post a clue on 

Facebook and wait for someone to find them. When you find 

a rock, take a picture and re-hide it, once again leaving a clue 

on Facebook. 

In Brandon, the movement is in the beginning stages. Tara 

Hunter, organizer of “042 Rocks,” says that painting and hiding 

rocks is “a way to get involved in doing something nice for 

someone else.” She hopes that as the word spreads throughout 

Brandon, it will bring people of all ages together to paint, 

hide, and search for rocks. Tara and her daughter Molly have 

painted several rocks to hide, and Tara said that Molly’s rocks 

are much more “artistic” than hers. However, she is quick to 

point out that you don’t have to be an artist; it’s all about 

putting your “thoughts on a rock” to share with others. As one 

of the organizers of the Miss Magnolia State Pageant, Tara 

plans to incorporate a rock swap into this year’s pageant. 

Contestants will go home with a souvenir of sorts, reminding 

them of the friends and memories they made. 

In Madison, folks have been painting and hiding rocks for 

several months now. Stacy Huff and her daughters, Jenny (16), 

Emily (16), and Sarah (8), enjoyed painting rocks one Sunday 

afternoon, and keep them in the car so they can hide them 

when they’re out and about. “We have found a couple and 

it’s so much fun,” Stacy says. “It’s been a great way to build 

community. It’s great to see your rocks travel around town as 

people find them. It gets the whole family involved.” Danny 

and DeeDee Walker, owners of Orange Leaf Frozen Yogurt in 

Madison have also enjoyed the rock hiding. “It’s been a lot of 

fun seeing the posts of rocks found at Orange Leaf,” says 

DeeDee. “I especially love when I get to show the kids where 

they are and see their excitement. The rocks are all personal 

creations that bring a smile or words of encouragement to 

those that find them. This has been one movement I can 

definitely get behind.” 

With so many negative stories in the world today, it’s 

refreshing to hear about a movement that brings people of all 

ages and walks of life together. n 

________________________________________________________________ 

For more information about rock painting and hiding in Madison, visit the Facebook 

page #MadisonMSrocks. For Brandon, visit the Facebook page 042 Rocks, or contact 

Tara Hunter at thunter3330@gmail.com. 



Brandon Parks 

& Recreation 

Kyle Brown 

The changing of seasons has brought a little change to 

Brandon Parks and Recreation, too. This fall, people will see a few 

new faces at Shiloh Park. We are excited to welcome Josh Tyrone 

as parks superintendent, Brent Leach as program coordinator, and 

Rachel Knight as administrative assistant. 

Josh Tyrone joins the City of Brandon after serving as director 

of grounds for the Department of Finance and Administration 

where he managed and directed a team of fifteen employees. 

Josh has an applied aciences degree in landscape management 

technology from Hinds Community College. 

Brent Leach will be joining Parks and Recreation from a 

similar role at Pelahatchie and Pelahatchie High School where he 

was an assistant baseball coach. Brent graduated from Delta State 

University with a degree in exercise science/business administration. 

Rachel Knight will be a great asset to Brandon by bringing her 

experience in customer relations and scheduling from the Rankin 

County Co-Op. Rachel received her biological sciences with 

emphasis in veterinary medicine degree from Mississippi State 

University. 

Shiloh Park is excited that fall sports season has begun. After 

several seasons of construction, Shiloh Park will be completely 

open for both adult and youth recreation. One new addition to 

Shiloh is pickleball, which replaces the old tennis courts near the 

splash pad. Pickleball is a paddle-ball sport played with a wifflestyle 

ball. It is a mixture of badminton, table tennis, and tennis 

played outdoors or indoors. Pickleball is a game for all ages and is 

a wide-spread growing non-traditional sport throughout the U.S., 

governed by the USA Pickleball Association. Participants can play 

for fun or competitively. 

Youth flag football which is for kids ages 6–8 has over 50 

participants. The season begins in September and runs to 

November with games on Monday evening beginning at 6pm. 

Teams will play a 6-game schedule with a season-ending 

tournament to determine the league champions. 

Tackle football is for kids between ages 7-12. There are over 

150 participants that have signed up. The season begins in 

September and runs until November with games on Mondays, 

Tuesdays, and Thursdays beginning at 6:30pm. Brandon Parks & 

Recreation tackle football league is part of the Rankin County 

Football League with Florence, Pearl, Richland, and McLaurin/ 

Star. Teams will end the season with playoffs for the Rankin 

County “Super Bowl” to determine the league champions. 

Softball/Baseball or “Fall Ball” is for youth between ages 5 

and 12. This fall there are nearly 350 participants. The season 

begins in September and ends in October with games on Monday 

evenings beginning at 6pm. 

Adult co-ed kickball is back and registration just ended. The 

season begins in September and runs until November with games 

being on Monday nights beginning at 6:30pm. Each team will play 

a six-game schedule with a season-ending tournament to 

determine league champions. 

Soccer which is run by the Brandon Futbol Club (BFC) is in 

full swing. BFC has expanded their offerings at Shiloh Park thanks 

to the three new soccer fields that were constructed. Brandon 

Futbol Club has around 650 participants between their 

recreational and competitive leagues. 

Brandon Parks and Recreation will host eight consecutive 

weekends of baseball, softball, and soccer tournaments and will 

also be the host site for the MAIS State Softball Championship 

games at Shiloh Park. 

For more information, visit the Brandon Parks and Recreation website at www.brandonparkandrec.com and our Facebook page for upcoming leagues. 



God & Country 

celebration

June 29 • Shiloh Park 


A Commitment to Providing 

Great Care 

Dani Edmonson 


In March of 1969, 

Rankin County opened 

its first modern hospital 

that offered short term, 

and acute care, along 

with a few other services 

new to the county. 

Fast forward to 2008, where the name 

changed to Crossgates River Oaks Hospital, 

and most recently in 2015, it became Merit 

Health Rankin. The name has changed along 

with the expanse of services. In CEO Dwight 

Blaylock’s own words, “Virtually any medical 

service that a patient needs can be provided 

by one of our 30+ clinics,” as well as hospitals 

located throughout the state. 

“Just as the founders of Rankin General 

Hospital hoped, we are still here, serving the 

needs of the people of the community, right 

here where they are,” Blaylock added. “We 

strive to be the premier provider of healthcare 

services in the metro area.” 

Dr. Edward Rigdon, with Merit for eighteen 

years, is the only certified vascular surgeon 

practicing in Rankin county and the only one 

on the staff at Merit Rankin. “When I joined 

the staff it was known at Rankin Medical Center. 

I have been here so long because I found it to 

be the best place for me to practice, and I love 

the hospital, staff, and the community.” 

Ridgon described the vast number of 

procedures and surgeries he performs regularly. 

“I perform surgery on the blood vessels in the 

neck, abdomen and legs. This involves surgery 

for blockage of blood vessels, usually due to 

hardening of the arteries, also commonly 

known as PAD (Peripheral Artery Disease). 

Some operations are performed for aneurysms. 

I also perform many operations on vascular 

shunts used for dialysis patients.” 

Consistent with Blaylock, Rigdon has 

passion for the services offered by Merit. 

“The greatest joy for any physician should be 

the encounters with patients and providing 

good care that makes a positive difference in 

their lives.” He is grateful for his Merit family 

as well. “They are an essential part of our 

health care team and we are very fortunate 

to have such a great and dedicated staff, 

many of whom have worked here most of their 

lives, some even multiple generations.” 

For Chief Nursing Executive Jacque Sullins 

working at Merit is a complex career, and a 

Blaylock 

Sullins 


“Making a positive impact on people’s lives 

and working with great professionals 

who work hard to deliver patient care.” 


true family affair as one of her sons is an RN at 

Merit. Sullins wears many hats on behalf of 

Merit, and exudes the same positive vision as 

her CEO boss Blaylock. “I have the responsibility 

of directing all nursing service employees which 

includes surgical services, ICU, Med-Surg/ 

Telemetry, senior care, emergency services, and 

education,” she explained. The oversight of 

these departments and services includes 

managing the clinical and administrative 

aspects which includes planning, organizing, 

staffing, budgeting, and directing these 

services. “Additionally I assist in oversight of 

infection prevention, case management, and 

respiratory therapy services. I work very closely 

and collaboratively with our physicians, the 

executive team, and all department managers 

to ensure excellent clinical quality is maintained 

for our patients, physicians and staff.” 

Adding to her many layers of responsibility, 

Sullins has to work through the challenges of 

the ongoing nursing shortage. “The focus is not 

only on hiring the right staff but in retaining 

the staff, so you have to continually strive to 

stay dialed in to the staff and open to creative 

options to meet their needs.” Despite the 

workload and headaches most if not all medical 

facilities experience, Sullins, employed with 

Merit for seven years, feeds off the controlled 

chaos. “I enjoy analyzing complex situations, 

formulating solutions and implementing 

changes that make a difference for our 

patients, physicians, staff and community.” 

RN/Director of Risk Management, Tonya 

Breazeale, began her path to employment at 

Rankin Medical because her mother, Minnis 

Hinton, was a nurse there for years. “You could 

say I grew up in the hospital,” she adds. “I 

remember when my mom had to bring me to 

the ER when I was in the first grade because I 

had stuck a pencil eraser up my nose.” 

Keeping erasers away from her face, 

Breazeale graduated from nursing school and 

began working at Rankin Medical in June 1988, 

along with her mother. Her mother had already 

made a name for herself, having worked at the 

hospital as an RN and nursing supervisor for 

40 years. “For the first year I worked here, 

everyone (staff and physicians alike) called me 

Minnis’s daughter,” she reflects with delight. 

“She truly was one of the best nurses I have 

ever worked with.” 

Breazeale has been with Merit for an 

impressive 29 years ranging from work in an 

acute medical surgical unit, pediatrics, surgery, 

emergency department and now works as the 

director of risk management. When asked 

about a challenge in medical care, her response 

is wrapped in positivity. “One of the challenges 

that I believe most heath care facilities face is 

finding inventive ways to provide the best care 

possible while spending the least amount of 

money possible.” 

The response from each of these long-term 

leaders within the system was very similar. 

“Making a positive impact on people’s lives and 

working with great professionals who work 

hard to deliver patient care,” Blaylock said. 

Sullins added, “We strive for excellent health 

care and small-town convenience.” Breazeale 

summed it up by saying, “Being an advocate for 

patient safety and a part of the team that 

continually evaluates our facilities’ processes to 

ensure we provide safe quality care.” 

Dr. William Krooss, Hospitalist 

“We strive for excellent 

health care and small-town 

convenience.” 


BRANDON PUBLIC LIBRARY 

1475 W. GOV. ST • (601) 825-2672 • brandonatcmrls.lib.ms.us 

Sept-Oct-Nov 2017 

Starting August 18 We Support Red Friday! 

Wear RED when you come to the library every Friday and check out one 

item. Enter the weekly drawing for a $20 coupon to a Brandon eatery. 

Grand prize drawing is November 6, for two $100 gift cards. New sign-up 

and prize every week. Limit of 1 weekly prize per person. All entries will be 

eligible for the grand prize. You do not have to be present to win. 

Sponsored by Friends of the Brandon Library. 

It’s the BIG ONE! Friends of the Library BOOK SALE! 

Friday, September 29, 10am-5pm Sale 

Saturday, September 30, 10am-4pm Sale 

Monday, October 2, 10am-8pm Bag Day ($5 a bag or $10 a box) 

Baby & Me - Mondays - 10:15am 

NEW PROGRAM Bond with your baby through music, movement, and 

stories. Preregistration is required. There will be a limit of 10 babies per 

session. For ages 0-12 months. 

Beading Class - Mondays - 4&6pm Please register. 

September 11 Cellini Spiral Bracelet. $5 supply fee. 

November 13 Bead Spinner Necklace. $8 supply fee. 

Must have a bead spinner. 

Brandon Book Club - Mondays - 10:30am 

Stop by and discuss this month’s book. 

September 11 - Killing Reagan by Bill O’Reilly. 

November 13 - Iam Malala by Malala Yousafzi 

Brandon Quilters - Mondays - Sept 11, Oct 2, Nov 13 - 6pm 

Cozy up with the Brandon Quilters for their meeting. 

Bridge for Beginners - Wednesdays - 1:30pm 

Join us and let’s play Bridge. Free classes. 

BYOP Bring Your Own Project - Thursdays - 1pm 

Weekly daytime crafting group. 

Chess Lessons for Teens and Adults - Second & Fourth Tuesdays - 6pm 

Must register and commit to all sessions. Starting September 12. 

Coin Club - Thursdays, Sept 7, Oct 5, Nov 2 - 6pm 

Love old and new currency? Join the Brandon Coin Club for their monthly 

meeting! 

Coin Show - Saturday, Oct 21 - 10am-4pm 

Creative Crafters - Thursdays - 6pm Join us as we learn and craft 

together. 

Dulcimer Group - Mondays - 6pm 

Bring your own dulcimer and let’s jam together. 

Duplo Free Play - Wednesdays, Sept 6, Oct 4, Nov 1 - 11:30am 

Come join the fun of building with Duplo Blocks. For ages 3-5. 

Family Night - Thursdays - 6pm 

September 21 - The World Champs of Robotics will stop by for a demo 

and hands-on activities! 

October 26 - It’s our annual FALL FESTIVAL! We’ll have games, cotton 

candy and popcorn, bouncy houses, and more! 

Friends of the Brandon Library Meeting 

Tuesdays, Sept 19, Oct 17, Nov 21 - 6pm 

Join the Friends to support your local library! 

Gardening at Your Library - First Wednesdays - 10:30am 

Gardening at its best. Sponsored by the Master Gardeners. 

September 6 - Gardening for Seniors 

October 4 - Composting 

November 1 - Poinsettia 

Genealogy Events 

Genealogy Club Thursdays, Sept 7, Oct 5, Nov 2 - 10:30am 

Genealogy topics and assistance are the topic of the day. 

DNA Discovery Group - Thursdays, Sept 21, Oct 19, Nov 16 - 10:30am 

Understand the differences in DNA tests and testing companies. Learn 

about, discuss and test out different databases to enhance your Family 

History research. Bring your laptop if you like. Free. 

Rankin County Historical Society/Brandon Genealogical 

& Historical Society Tuesdays, September 19, November 21 - 7pm 

Join us for History and Fellowship. The public is invited. Refreshments 

provided. 

Introduction to Elder Law Issues - Monday, September 25 - 6pm 

Probate, living wills, health care directives, DNR-what does it all mean? 

Do you need one? How do you get started? Richard Young with The Elder 

Law Firm will be here to educate us and answer questions. 

Kid Connection - Tuesdays - 4pm 

Grades K-5 afterschool story and craft hour. 

1st and 3rd Tuesdays - Grades K-6 afterschool story and craft hour. 

2nd and 4th Tuesdays - Chess Lessons for K-6. Must register and commit 

to all sessions. 

Lego Free Play - Thursdays, Sept 14, Oct 12, Nov 9 - 3pm 

Be creative and use your imagination to build with our legos for ages 6-12. 

Middle Grade Monday - For middle graders age 10-13 

Rice Krispie Challenge September 18 - 5pm Celebrate Rice Krispie Treat 

Day with us in our Rice Krispie Building Challenge! 

DIY Pizza Day October 16 - 5pm October is National Pizza Month. Let’s 

celebrate by making (and eating) our own tasty pizzas! 

Teen & Middle Grade Mississippi Trivia Night October 23 - 5pm 

Celebrate Mississippi’s Bicentennial with our trivia night! Test your 

knowledge and win some prizes! For teens and middle graders ages 10+. 

Game Night October 30 - 5pm GAME ON! We’ve got Apples to Apples, 

Jenga, One Night Ultimate Werewolf, and more! 

Preschool Story Time - Wednesdays and Thursdays - 10:30am 

Songs, stories, and crafts for preschoolers aged 3-5. 

Sign Language Learn to speak with your hands! Free class. Please register. 

Beginners - Saturdays, Sept 9, Oct 14, Nov 11 - 10:30am 

Advanced - Saturdays, Sept 23, Oct 28 and Nov 25 - 10:30am 

Teens For teens age 13+ 

Building Challenge Monday, September 11 - 5pm 

Test your might in these games of physics! 

Mad Hatter Day Monday, October 2 - 5pm 

Take a trip to Wonderland with snacks and games for MAD HATTER DAY! 

Teen & Middle Grade Batman Day Monday, September 25 - 5pm 

Celebrate BATMAN DAY with us! We’ll have games, snacks, activities, and 

more! For teens and middle graders ages 10+. 

After Hours Edgar Allan Poe Party Friday, October 27, 5:30-8:00pm 

Celebrate one of the spookiest authors of all time, Edgar Allan Poe! We’ll 

have food, crafts, games, and more--just ignore the noises under the 

floorboards. For teens age 13+. PERMISSION FORM REQUIRED. 

Third Thursday Book Club - 6:30pm 

September 21 - The Lost City of the Monkey God by Douglas Preston 

October 19 - Let the Right One In by John Ajvide Lindqvist 

November 16 - Can’t We Talk About Something More Pleasant? by Roz Chast 

Toddler Time - Mondays - 10:30am 

Come join us for stories, songs, and finger plays for ages 0-2 years. 

V.V.A. Meeting - Wednesdays, Sept 13, Oct 11, Nov 8 - 10:30am 

Join local veterans for their monthly meeting! 

Video Game Day - Saturdays, Sept 16, Oct 21, Nov 18 

For gamers age 8+. Please register. 

September 16 - Smash Brothers Tournament, 12pm - 3pm 

October 21 - Minecraft - 10am and 1pm. Space is limited. Registration required. 

November 18 - Mario Kart Tournament, 12pm-3pm 

Displays for September, October, & November 

Cake Pans 

Ronald McDonald House 

Red Friday Bulldog 

MDAH’s Mississippi’s Greatest Treasure: The Old Capitol 

Services offered at the Brandon Library 

Black and White and color printing/copying, Scanning, Wireless Printing 

Additional services offered by the Friends of the Brandon Library - 

Free shredding - Notary services available for a fee of $3. Available 

10-8 Monday-Thursday and 10-5 Friday. Call to check Saturday availability. 

The library will be closed: 

September 4 for Labor Day 

October 9 for Columbus Day 

______________________________________________________ 

Brandon Public Library is part of the Central Mississippi Regional Library 

System, which serves Rankin, Scott, Simpson, and Smith Counties. 



serving our community 

Administrative Assistant 

Carolyn Palmer 

brandon Fire Department 


How long have you been with the 

Brandon Fire Department? 

A little over 18 years—four of which I worked 

at the police department when we were 

emergency services, including fire and police. 

I am grateful, every day, to be able to work with 

these fine men and women that serve our city. 

Thanks to all for giving me this opportunity to 

work at the best place ever. 

Tell us about your family. 

I have been married to my husband Jerry for 

over 37 years. He’s been my soulmate, best 

friend, and a fantastic father to our three 

children and son-in-law, Shawn, Sara and Tom, 

and Justin. I love my family! 

What is the toughest thing you have 

experienced in your job? 

The fire service has been my second family 

for many years and when our firefighters 

experience tough calls it touches my soul and 

my heart goes to them. However, the toughest 

experience at BFD was the loss of two of our 

firefighters to cancer. Ochel and Trent, you are 

always in our memories. 

Share some things you enjoy doing in 

your spare time. 

Reading, gardening, and being outside is always 

my preference until mosquitos come take me 

away. I love going to flea markets and estate 

sales and volunteering to help at city functions. 

Who is someone you admire and why? 

My parents. I gave Mom so much trouble 

growing up because she was so strict, however, 

once I became a mom, I understood why. She 

is a strong, intelligent woman who gave up her 

dreams to be a mother to five children. She 

instilled integrity, respect and love of books in all 

of us. But most of all, she taught us to love one 

another and that family is most important. My 

father taught us work ethics and love of music 

and entertainment. He would take us to his 

work (he was a meteorologist and volunteer 

firefighter) so we knew what he did when away 

from home, and loved to take us to special 

events and concerts. 

What are three things on your 

bucket list? 

Go on an Alaskan cruise and take some botany 

and herbology classes. And one day I hope to 

be a grandmother. 

Where do you see yourself ten years 

from now? 

I hope to be retired, traveling, and working my 

gardens. Maybe I’ll learn to fish with my 

husband and do volunteer work as I love 

meeting and helping people. I like to keep busy. 

If you could give one piece of advice to 

a young person, what would it be? 

So many of the younger generation seem to be 

in the “what you can do for me” stage. It is not 

always what someone can do for you but what 

you can do for someone else. Be problem 

solvers and set goals. Continue your education 

and develop a great work ethic. 

What is a favorite childhood memory? 

When we city kids got to visit our cousin’s ranch 

in South Texas. There were 16 of us combined 

with our two families. We had a blast horseback 

riding, swimming in the river and taking 

showers in the outside shower. We also went 

with our cousins down to the coast for crab 

boils on the beach. Lots of good memories. 

What is the biggest mistake you think 

young people make today? 

Treat each person with respect. Always put 

yourself in the other person’s shoes before you 

talk down or be hateful toward them. Bullying is 

a major issue with young people now and is an 

issue that concerns me. Peer pressure has 

always been tough but it is more prevalent 

now with social media and modern technology. 

You never know that the person you bullied as a 

young child or teenager may just be the person 

you will count on in your adult years. 

What is your favorite thing about the 

City of Brandon? 

I love living and working in Brandon. We moved 

back many years ago from Dallas so our children 

could grow up in a safe and small-town 

atmosphere. I am excited about all growth that 

is happening in our city and am proud of our 

city leaders, businesses, and citizens for 

supporting our city.

BRANDon's finest 

Officer Kristen Liberto 

brandon police Department 

Why did you decide to be a policeman? 

I began my career in law enforcement when 

I started working at the Rankin County jail as 

a booking officer in 2001. I worked my way up 

to dispatch and things seemed to fall in line. 

Law enforcement was a good fit for me and 

I enjoyed it. 

How long have you been with the 

Brandon Police Department? 

Brandon Police Department sent me to the 

Mississippi Law Enforcement Officer’s Training 

Academy in 2006. I worked there from 2006 

to 2009 and returned to Brandon Police 

Department about four months ago. 

Tell us about your family. 

I am the oldest of four. I have a 33-year-old 

brother, a 29-year-old brother and a 

20-year-old sister. 

What is the toughest thing you have 

experienced in your job? 

Adapting to and accepting change. 

Share some things you enjoy doing in 

your spare time. 

I enjoy simple things like grilling with my family 

and friends and spending time with my two 

dogs, Uno and Tarkan. 

What are three things on your 

bucket list? 

To have a tiny beach house on the water, 

to swim with dolphins, and to visit Italy. 

Who is someone you admire and why? 

I admire the truly dedicated law enforcement 

officers; those who, in their heart, are peacemakers 

not power mongers. 

Where do you see yourself ten years 

from now? 

I see myself as a sergeant or lieutenant on patrol 

or retired. 

If you could give one piece of advice 

to a young person, what would it be? 

I would stress to them that choices are so 

important. I would tell them that every choice 

we make has a consequence, good or bad. 

I would also tell them to slow down and think 

before reacting or deciding. 

What is a favorite childhood memory? 

I remember being five years old and waking up 

Christmas morning to a red three-wheeler from 

Santa. Best memory, ever! 

What is the biggest mistake you think 

young people make today? 

I think they live in the moment and act on 

impulses instead of logic too often. 

What is your favorite thing about the 

City of Brandon? 

My favorite thing is the people I work with. 

I could not ask for better co-workers. I am very 

grateful for them. 




ack to school 

august 3 • Brandon Municipal Center 



TheVision of 

Georgia 

Blue 

Susan Marquez 


Out of the mouths 

of babes, Georgia 

Blue got its name. 

“My wife and I were in the 

car with our then-four-yearold 

daughter,” Jason Ishee 

recalled, “and we were 

knocking around names for 

the new restaurant we were 

opening. Suddenly, our 

daughter said ‘call it Georgia 

Blue!’ Georgia is her name, 

and blue is my favorite 

color,” Ishee laughed. 

The name had a ring to it; 

Georgia Blue opened its first 

location in Madison in 2010. 


That first location has evolved and 

expanded with locations in Flowood, Hattiesburg, 

and Brookhaven. Ishee has put his heart and 

soul into growing the GB brand, despite the 

fact that he didn’t set out to be in the restaurant 

business. Ishee started washing dishes at a 

restaurant in California as a teen. He worked 

his way up in the restaurant world from 

dishwasher to line cook, chef, bartender to 

owner. “This business chose me, and 26 years 

later, my business partner, Drew Beatty and 

I live by the same philosophy, which is to do 

the small things better than anyone else and 

treat people like family.” 

Along the way, the duo of Ishee and Beatty 

have been attentive to opportunities and used 

them to their advantage. When a location in 

downtown Brookhaven 

became available, a Georgia 

Blue was opened in an area that had 

not seen a restaurant like it. “Jason has great 

vision,” said Beatty. “He can see through the 

dust and mud and create a masterpiece.” The 

restaurant is in a historic downtown building 

near the railroad tracks. Because it was the first 

bar in the area, it was important to be sensitive 

in the design. 

“We put the bar in the back, and have it 

petitioned off in such a way that it’s not 


in-your-face,” explained Ishee. Another 

addition to the GB brand is the bakery across 

the tracks from the Brookhaven location. 

“There is an amazing baker from Brookhaven, 

Trey Maddox, who made it his life mission to 

learn to bake the very best cheesecake. He ran 

our Hattiesburg location for five years before 

we put him in charge of the bakery,” said Ishee. 

“His cheesecakes are out of this world,” added 

Drew. “They are so light it’s like eating air with 

flavor.” And what flavor – Maddox makes 

banana pudding cheesecakes, red velvet 

cheesecakes, turtle cheesecakes and more. They 

are made and sold in the Brookhaven bakery, 

called GB Bakery, and also sent to the Georgia 

Blue restaurants around the state. 

Now the GB Bakery experience is coming 

to downtown Brandon, along with a new GB 

restaurant called Genna Benna’s. “We named it 

after our youngest daughter, Genna,” beamed 

Ishee. “I nicknamed her Genna Benna early on 

and it stuck. And lucky for us, the initials are 

GB, so it fits in perfectly with our brand.” The 

new restaurant will be located in the oldest 

building in Brandon, with the bakery next door. 

“The buildings once housed hardware stores,” 

said Ishee. “There were also old jail cells in there, 

and we are taking that area and creating a 

speakeasy.” The restaurant will be doing a little 

of what is done at other Georgia Blue locations, 

but the focus at Genna Benna’s will be on three 

different Prime steak cuts, gourmet burgers, 

pizza, and also a daily lunch special . 

The speakeasy will be on the bottom floor 

and so discreet it won’t even have a name on 

the door. Cut whiskey barrels will form one 

wall with lots of copper and wood. 

Ishee and Beatty are hoping to open the 

new Brandon location in the first quarter of 

2018. The bakery will also serve coffee, the 

same as the Brookhaven location. “We actually 

bought our own coffee roaster, so we roast our 

own beans,” said Beatty. “Soon we’ll be coming 

out with K-cups of our coffee for sale.” 

On the heels of the Brandon opening, a new 

Madison location is set to open in summer 2018. 

A free-standing building is planned near the 

Baptist Healthplex, just behind the new Marriott 

that is being built. “It will be a two-story 

building with both a patio area and an upper 

deck outdoor area,” explained Ishee. “It will also 

have a Whiskey Barrel bar, with the backs of 

antique cars forming booths. The balcony will 

have a semi-private room, and we will also have 

a private room downstairs. The big thing is that 

we will have a banquet hall that will serve 250 

to 300 people.” 

Throughout the company’s expansion, 

Ishee and Beatty have been focused on 

maintaining their brand’s integrity. “We serve 

what people want,” said Beatty. “We feel like 

we made country cooking cool again. We are 

a made-from-scratch restaurant, and we listen 

to our customers. We know that without our 

customers, we are nothing.” Georgia Blue 

customers are very loyal, even helping with 

the décor. “We started using license plates 

in our décor in Madison,” explained Ishee. 

“It was an idea to honor my father, who died 

in a car wreck. He collected license plates 

from all over. I used them for table tops, with 

polyurethane poured on top. We had so many 

plates we decided to craft them into serving 

baskets. People started giving us their old 

plates, and they told us why the plates were 

so special to them. We have also had people 

make art objects such as guitars covered in 

license plates. People love to look at the old 

plates, and now at the art. It’s a fun thing 

that has become a signature for us.” n 



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august 15 • brandon high football stadium


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Everything’s 

Coming Up 

Charla Jordan In the 1940s / Suzanne everyone Ross at home was thinking 

about gardening, but it was for food, not flowers. 

World War II had changed everything. Women 

were taking on jobs previously done by men who 

had gone to war. These same women were 

adapting utilitarian men’s work clothing such as 

trousers and overalls for their own use. Some 

fabrics were no longer available, as they had 

been restricted for war effort. Colors were drab. 

Since fabrics were in short supply, styles became 

simpler, leaner, and shorter, with little decoration. 

Trousers were becoming accepted not only 

in work environments such as factories and 

construction, but also in the home, garden, and 

social settings. 

By the beginning of the 1950s, life was 

changing rapidly. On the home front, WW II 

Veterans were returning home to apply skills 

they learned in the military or to finish their 

education. In 1953 it appeared that the United 

States was finally at peace with the signing of 

the Korean Peace Treaty. Good things were 

happening for the country and the state. 

Sixth-ranked Ole Miss beat second-ranked 

Georgia Tech in the Sugar Bowl. On January 28, 

1953, WJTV-TV Channel 12 debuted in the Jackson 

area, missing by eight days the first live coast-tocoast 

television broadcast of a presidential 

inaugural address by Dwight D. Eisenhower. 

Americans had more spare time. Food 

gardening was still important, but landscaping 

and flower gardening had new meaning; and, as 

usual, women’s clothing began to change with 

hemlines rising a little more each year. Suits such 

as the ones with boxy jackets designed by Coco 

Chanel were popular. Pants, no longer trousers, 

were tapered to the leg. For daytime and more 

casual occasions, most ladies wore dresses with 

Above: Brandon Garden Club officers for 

1954 enjoying a beautiful outdoor setting. 

(L - R) Inez Watson, Margaret Thompson, 

S. G. Thompson, Edith Paschal, Ottris Kennedy, 

Dell Busick. 

Left: 1940s War Ration Fashion 

Brandon Garden Club 

Keeps Up With the Times 

wide skirts and narrow waists, complemented by 

an assortment of belts, hats, gloves, and high 

heeled shoes. Television was beginning to 

influence fashion, with ladies at home wearing 

shirtwaist dresses as an alternative to more 

exaggerated styles. 

When the ladies in Brandon formed 

Brandon Garden Club in 1952 and federated 

with National Garden Clubs, Inc. in 1953, their 

goal wasn’t to just grow food. They wanted to 

stimulate the knowledge and love of gardening, 

to share their homes and gardens, and to 

conserve natural resources. The club flower 

chosen was the rose, or as Sappho, a poetess 

six centuries before the birth of Christ said, 

“the Queen of Flowers.” 

BGC members could write a book on the 

changes made since we formed. Dress at 

meetings has followed current fashion trends, 


Above: Brandon Garden Club officers for 2017-2018 (L-R), seated: Lynn Williams, President 

Suzanne Ross, Ginger Parker, and Delena Hamel. Standing: Debbie Edwards, Dixie Vance, 

Allyn Graves, Bobbye Strickland, Debbie Zischke, Charla Jordan, and Sandy Parish. 

with members, more often than not, wearing pants - slim or straight leg, wide or flared, 

ankle length, leggings, jeans, etc. We talk about the latest hats and gloves - but not 

formal ones, the ones best suited for the garden. We plant roses both at home and 

throughout the city. We continue to celebrate Arbor Day, National Garden Week, and 

Veterans Day. 

For the first time in 64 years, we will not have the guidance of a charter member, 

Janet McLaurin. “Miss Janet” and others who came before have taught us a lot. 

This month we share fall gardening tips for Miss Janet’s favorite flower and our 

club flower, the rose. Tips are adapted and updated from BGC Roses, Recipes and 

Reflections. 

• Fertilize for the last time this season in late September to early October, or 30 to 

45 days prior to the first predicted frost date, with a rose fertilizer with little or no 

nitrogen. If you are unsure what to purchase, ask at a reputable garden center. 

• Water thoroughly at least once a week during dry periods. 

• Dead head (remove dead blooms just above the leaflet joint) until the first frost. 

• Stop hard pruning in late September to early October, as it may awaken dormant 

buds, producing new growth that will be killed during freezing temperatures. The 

best time to prune is after the last hard frost mid-February to March or when 

jonquils or forsythia are blooming. 

• Mulch roses with organic materials, since these will decompose and enrich the 

soil. Pine needles and shredded bark are two of the most readily available. These 

tend to stay in place during rains. 

Join Brandon Garden Club and the City of Brandon as we honor veterans at the 

Veterans Day Breakfast on November 10 at Brandon Civic Center. 

For information, visit www.thebrandongardenclub.com. 

Each year BGC plants trees to celebrate Arbor Day, which 

is celebrated in Mississippi the second Friday in February. 

Pictured with a mulberry tree planted by BGC in 1969 are 

(L-R) Mrs. Don Calfee, BGC President; Mrs. Gwen Harper, 

Crossgates Manor Director; and Mrs. Nancy Williams, 

BGC’s Arbor Day Committee Chairman. 


Brandon Garden Club 

began its new garden club year with an 

Annual 

Kick-off Extravaganza 

on August 15. 

President Suzanne Ross welcomed 

new and prospective members and 

introduced the Board of Directors 

for 2017-2018. The guest speaker was 

Jamie Wier, Principal Architect with 

Wier Boerner Allin Architecture, who 

shared his plans for the Wierhouse, 

Genna Benna’s Restaurant, 

and GB Bakery coming to 

downtown Brandon. 



Sunday Worship Times 

8:15 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. Worship 9:30 a.m. Sunday School 

6:00 p.m. Evening Worship 

Holiday Worship Events: 

Fall Festival / Trunk or Treat 

October 25, 5:30 p.m.—7:30 p.m. 

Harvest Supper 

November 19, 5:00 p.m. 

Hanging of the Green 

December 3, 6:00 p.m. 

Night of the Father’s Love Christmas Program 

December 10, 8:15 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. 

Instrumental Night of Christmas Praise 


Vesper Service 


Carols and Candlelight 



Thanks 

to our 

readers 

and 

advertisers. 

We 

appreciate 

you! 



The Time Coin 

Plan-To and Going-To are familiar 

associates of most humans, 

diminishing and robbing our lives far too 

often. They’ve earned their rank in the list of 

“Little Demons” due to their being associated 

with loss, disappointment or regret. 

I still recall days when busy work took precedence over some 

book-reading time with my children along with invitations to dinner 

that never got past the plan-to stage. As always, Meant-To would 

remind me of my poor use of meaningful time, and Good-Intentions 

would attempt to console me with negligible results. 

There have been notes that I’ve meant to write, calls I was going to 

get to, visits I’ve meant to make and jobs I promised myself I would 

plan to do. Even though the verse from Galatians 6:10 says, “Whenever 

we have the opportunity, we should do good to everyone, especially to 

our Christian brothers and sisters,” far too often Plan-To and Going-To 

have succeeded in their robberies and left their accomplice, Good- 

Several years ago I was introduced to 

three sisters who joined a Bible study along 

with me. Their lives, bonds to each other and 

the Lord, made a powerful impact on my life. 

As our friendships grew, I learned that they 

had other siblings who lived in other cities. 

They spoke of great fondness for all their family members. By then, 

I was so impressed with their lives that I wanted to meet their mother, 

the main figure responsible for molding these special lives. Plan-To and 

Going-to agreed it was a great idea, and together we planned for a time 

I could make a visit to her home. 

Eventually I got around to it. In fact, several visitors were there 

plus her three daughters who had talked so much about their mother. 

But it was a bittersweet visit. Too-Late met me at the door of the funeral 

home and pointed me to her open casket. Regret and Disappointment 

gathered around me and eventually left the room following close 

behind Meant-To. It seems they always travel together. n 

Intentions, to offer his pep talk and lame excuses. 


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Hometown Brandon - Fall 2017

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