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The conference begins with keynote speaker John Barry, author of Rising Tide.

Photo: Ann Marie Wyatt

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Mike Stewart of Wildrose Kennels with his Labrador retrievers.

Photo: Ann Marie Wyatt

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Story, G&G editor in chief David DiBenedetto’s good dog in training, makes a guest appearance.

Photo: Ann Marie Wyatt

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Conference attendees tour historic Oxford homes that exemplify the traditional Southern porch.

Photo: Danny Dickey

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Mississippi poet laureate  Beth Ann Fennelly shares her story with the crowd.

Photo: Ann Marie Wyatt

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Artist Wyatt Waters demonstrates his craft.

Photo: Ann Marie Wyatt

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The Field Dinner gathers guests, artists, and locals for a true Mississippi affair.

Photo: Ann Marie Wyatt

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Nick Reppond, head chef  and owner of Grit, prepares a whole-hog roast in celebration of the festive event.

Photo: Ann Marie Wyatt

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Sharde Thomas with her fife and drum band at the Field Dinner.

Photo: Danny Dickey

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G&G’s CJ Lotz discusses the significance of the front porch in Southern culture through the Garden & Gun lens.

Photo: Danny Dickey

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The two-day event wraps with a private performance by Drew Holcomb and the Neighbors.

Photo: Danny Dickey