Story & Photography by Woody Woodard

Each year at the Patron’s Party, held at the Walden & Norton colonial home, one thinks that last year’s party was tops. Then you meet Thurston at the champagne table. From there you are escorted by young men in tuxedos up the stairs to the grand entry hall. The hall is bustling with friends and guests chatting, while Matt is playing the baby grand piano. At the foot of the circular staircase is the dining table with numerous finger foods and sweets.

Did I mention the Maple Bacon, stacked high at the end of the dining table, and there is a quiet room in the back where people sneak for cozy elbow rubbing, waiting to reach for THE BACON! If you haven’t ever had the bacon, it is just a few doors down from heaven! Once you have been there and decide to move to the family room, there is a new dance you need to learn—the side step hustle! The middle room off the kitchen is where 50 plus people gather to talk and eat, and the side step hustle is a required step. Many times it is two steps back and one forward. Jackson has many great events and the Patron’s Party packed house is one of those events!