Downtown Natchez Alliance (DNA) - A Mississippi Main Street Designated Community
DNA Presents the 1st Annual Sallie Junkin Ballard “Keep Natchez Blooming” Award presented at Celebrate The Blooms Bash

July 08, 2022

The Downtown Natchez Alliance, as part of the 4th Annual Natchez Crepe Myrtle Festival, announced the winners of the 1st Annual Sallie Junkin Ballad “Keep Natchez Blooming” Award. The presentation was part of the festival opening bash at Locust Alley on Friday, July 8, 2022 at 5:30pm.

This year, the award was presented to Marcia McCullough of Garden Lovers of Natchez, for the Downtown Natchez Hanging Flower Baskets Project, and to Rita Tebbetts and Monroe Sago, Adams County Master Gardeners for their efforts on Crepe Myrtle Bark Scale Treatment and Education.

The Winners

Adams County Master Gardeners Rita Tebbetts and Monroe Sago.
L to R: DNA Exec. Director Diane DuPont and Marcia McCullough
Marcia McCullough with Garden Lovers of Natchez members, Sherry Jones and Marcia Passman.

Presentation on Crepe Myrtle Scale Blight

Also at the event, award winners and Adams County Master Gardeners Rita Tebbets and Monroe Sago, had a presentation for the ongoing diagnosis, treatment, and care of Crepe Myrtle Scale Blight in Natchez.

Adams County Master Gardener Monroe demonstrates how to treat Crepe Myrtle trees for Bark Scale.
Adams County Master Gardener Monroe Sago demonstrates how to treat Crepe Myrtle trees for Bark Scale.
Adams County Master Gardener Monroe Sago demonstrates how to treat Crepe Myrtle trees for Bark Scale.

Farmers Market Kids Activities

The Natchez Crepe Myrtle Festival tent at the Natchez Farmers Markets has more information on this year’s festival, in addition to children’s activities that should be fun for all!

Thanks to the DNA volunteers who are manning our tent: Norma West, Michael Pace, Taylor and Andi Cooley.

Photo by Taylor Cooley
Photo By Taylor Cooley
DNA Announces New Leadership and Downtown Unlocked Event

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE NATCHEZ, MS - The Downtown Natchez Alliance (DNA) announces a leadership transition as Executive Director Leah Hunter plans to step into a new professional opportunity, building on the experience gained during her time with the organization....

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DNA In The News: Awnings & Façade Grant Update

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New Look: Owners taking advantage of façade improvements grants From the Natchez Democrat, January 11, 2026By Sabrina Robertson "NATCHEZ, MS – Investment into the visual and functional appeal of downtown businesses continues as the first wave of façade improvements...

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DNA Director joins Rebecca Turner on Supertalk FM

DNA Director joins Rebecca Turner on Supertalk FM

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Director Leah Hunter was on Good Things with Rebecca Turner on Supertalk FM to discuss the Downtown Natchez Pumpkin Patch, Halloween events and other things going on in Natchez! https://youtu.be/bWerbe6WK1Y?si=bs_6d1bWb06ys_EE

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