What a glorious whirlwind it has been! This issue marks the end of The ‘Sip’s first year in print and an exciting year ahead. Since our last issue, our team has traveled around the state — from the red clay hills of Oxford for a brown bag lecture at my alma mater to the Gulf Coast for the Mississippi Governor’s Conference on Tourism — raising awareness about our publication. People from all walks of life have embraced The ‘Sip as a cultural guide to our state’s remarkable people and places. I could not be more proud or thrilled by its reception. And, it’s only the beginning.
Our winter issue celebrates the soul-warming tastiness of one of the South’s favorite foods. For me, a good batch of grits — with garlic and cheese à la Vintage Vicksburg — is as close to food heaven as this Southern girl can get. Delta Grind Grits, one of several woman-owned businesses reshaping the quaint, artsy town of Water Valley, is singing a success story for grits in Mississippi.
This issue also honors the legacy of Walter Anderson, a notable Mississippi artist I’ve admired since childhood. I was delighted to visit with the artist’s daughter, Mary, and her son Chris on the steps of the former barn at Shearwater, the family art compound, and it was fascinating to be in the company of two creative spirits. Our conversation was paused when a monarch butterfly flew overhead and Mary and Chris, true to their heritage, stopped to take note of the beauty of the nature around them — a humbling and memorable experience. Paying attention is part of Walter Anderson’s legacy.
As The ‘Sip delves into a new year full of fresh and exciting adventures — a mobile app, an office in downtown Vicksburg, plans for signature events and special issues — I will keep that inspiring conversation close to heart. This issue, complete with a canoe adventure on the Mississippi River, provides a nice kick-start to a new year of celebrating all the little details that make this state outstanding.
Cheers, y’all,
Lauchlin
PHOTOGRAPHY Melanie Thortis
