Invitation Tupelo - November 2015

NOVEMBER 2015

made in house

cheddar cheese

QUICK PICKLES PICKLED ONION HOISIN SAUCE COMEBACK SAUCE

WRIGHT DAIRY, ALEXANDRIA, ALA.

burger

AGED FILET, SIRLOIN, RIBEYE, NEW YORK STRIP CIRCLE W FARMS, HOULKA, MISS. AND SIMPSON FARMS, ATHENS, TENN.

bacon bits

BENTON’S, MADISONVILLE, TENN., AND GROUND IN HOUSE

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November 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

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November 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

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IN THIS ISSUE NOVEMBER 2015

FEATURES

NOVEMBER 2015

made in house

cheddar cheese

QUICK PICKLES PICKLED ONION HOISIN SAUCE COMEBACK SAUCE

WRIGHT DAIRY, ALEXANDRIA, ALA.

burger

AGED FILET, SIRLOIN, RIBEYE, NEW YORK STRIP CIRCLE W FARMS, HOULKA, MISS. AND SIMPSON FARMS, ATHENS, TENN.

bacon bits

BENTON’S, MADISONVILLE, TENN., AND GROUND IN HOUSE

COVER PHOTOGRAPHED

BY JOE WORTHEM

39 Unwind at Southwind Elegant country retreat Southwind was built on 600 acres of one family’s land in Shannon, Miss., for weddings and other formal events.

51 Merry Grinch-mas!

This year Tupelo’s own beloved Grinch will debut a new and improved costume and an expanded entourage of Whoville friends.

51 EVENTS

44 Hometown Flavor

The smash burger (pictured on the cover) recently brought Tupelo’s Neon Pig Café national attention, but the restaurant’s real success is in serving up ingredients sourced from Mississippi farms that are also focused on bringing homegrown goodness to consumers.

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2015

16 18 20 22 24 26 28 30 32 34 58 60 62 64 71 73 75 77

Chili Fest Imagine the Possibilities Race for the Cure Saltillo Homecoming Parade Halloween Happenings Barktoberfest Celebration Village Corinth Homecoming Parade Hog Wild BBQ Festival Saltillo Scarecrow Festival Play for the Cure Saltillo Paint Party Walk to End Alzheimer’s Miranda Lambert Concert Reaching Out Music Fest Pigskins in the Park ICC Homecoming Glow Party for Kids

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75 DEPARTMENTS 6 8 10 12 66 80

Letter From the Publisher What’s Happening Community Corner: Tree of Life In Season: Holiday Recipes Out and About Tupelo Spirit: John Harris November 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

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the publisher

LETTER FROM

T

he holiday season is quickly approaching, and with it comes the stress and exhaustion that often accompany this much-anticipated time of year. I’ve learned that if I’m not careful I can quickly become an overwhelmed, exhausted and tightly wound Rachel – someone I’d rather not be. So, over the years, I’ve put limits on the holidays. I choose a few dishes to prepare for a meal and let others help with the rest. My family adopts an angel from the Salvation Army’s angel tree, and we splurge on gifts for that child but limit the number of presents we purchase for each other. We attend a few parties and Christmas Eve services, but also try to keep room on our calendar for quiet family time. It is in those simplest moments where the true joy of the holidays is found.

John Harris is a good example of that. For 32 years he has been a U.S. Postal Service employee at the Thomas Street branch – perhaps one of the busiest places in town this time of year. He works long hours with folks like me who are dealing with holiday stress but keeps a warm smile on his face as he helps frantic patrons ship off letters and packages to distant loved ones. Read more about Harris on page 80.

It’s not just Harris who uplifts others this time of year. On page 51, meet Louis Armour, Tupelo’s own Grinch, the famous Dr. Seuss character known for spreading his particular version of holiday cheer. Armour and his daughter Kristyn Martz, along with a growing entourage of friends and family who play other Whoville characters, continue this annual tradition to bring Christmas joy to people of all ages.

In this issue we also celebrate local harvest. We talked to the folks at Neon Pig, who work very hard to keep things simple. They partner with other restaurants and local farms

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2015

PUBLISHER Rachel Malone West EDITOR Phil West MANAGING EDITOR Emily Welly ASSOCIATE EDITOR Lena Anderson ART DIRECTOR Hallie M. Thomas PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Emily R. Suber STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS Lisa Roberts, Joe Worthem STAFF WRITER Melanie Crownover ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Cindy Semmes ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS Alise M. Emerson, Leigh Lowery, Lynn McElreath, Stacey Raper, Moni Simpson, Whitney Worsham DESIGNERS Becca Bailey, Zach Fields CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Sonia Thompson CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Chasity Dees, Andrew Stanford OFFICE MANAGER Hollie Hilliard

to create a menu made up of locally sourced goods, and they stock their market shelves with Mississippi-made delicacies. Their efforts are inspired by old-fashioned kitchens that offered customers simple, seasonal ingredients and thoughtful preparations.

This holiday season, spend time with those you love, do things that make you happy and find simple joy nearby – maybe from a Neon Pig smash burger, a visit to the local post office or a chance encounter with the Grinch. Who knows? You just may be inspired to spread a little Christmas cheer yourself.

COPY EDITOR Kate Johnson DISTRIBUTION Donald Courtney ADVERTISING INFORMATION (662) 701-8070 ads@invitationtupelo.com MAIN OFFICE (662) 234-4008 To subscribe to one year (10 issues) of Invitation Tupelo, send payment of $50 to: P.O. Box 3192, Tupelo, MS 38802 or visit invitationtupelo.com to pay online.

To request a photographer at your event, to obtain an event photo or to purchase an announcement, email Hallie at hallielandonmarshall@gmail.com.

RACHEL M. WEST, PUBLISHER PLEASE RECYCLE THIS MAGAZINE

November 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

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what’s happening November 15-December 15 A sampling of important, fun and interesting events in our area. For more events, visit invitationtupelo.com.

NATIVE AMERICAN MONTH

COMMUNITY EVENTS Now through November 28 Pontiac Exhibit Tupelo Automobile Museum displays General Motors’ Pontiacs, built from1926 to 2010. 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Monday-Saturday, noon-4:30 p.m. Sunday (closed Thanksgiving and Christmas). 1 Otis Blvd., 662-842-4242

Now through November 30 Native American Month Visit the Natchez Trace Parkway Visitor Center for a photo exhibit and film commemorating Native American Month.

Open 8 a.m.-5 p.m. daily, milepost 266 on the Natchez Trace Parkway. 662-680-4027

November 19 New Beginnings Ask and Eat A dinner program is held the third Thursday of each month to offer information on adoption. 6:30 p.m. To learn more and to register, visit newbeginningsadoptions.org.

November 19 and 20 Dinner With Friends

HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS November 17

December 5

Tupelo Women’s Club Holiday Tree Festival

The Nutcracker

Annual event benefits several local charities that support women and children. 6-10 p.m., Tupelo Country Club.

662-231-6084

Tupelo Ballet presents The Nutcracker with live music by the North Mississippi Symphony Orchestra. 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., Tupelo High School Performing Arts Center.

662-844-1928

November 21 Corinth Red Green Market Corinth’s Green Market with a holiday twist. 8 a.m.-4 p.m. at the historic Corinth Depot. corinthgreenmarket.com

December 5-31 1950s Christmas

Get a head start on holiday shopping. Noon-4 p.m.

The Tupelo Automobile Museum is decked out for the holidays with 1950s classic cars, sparkling trees and snow.

Open 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday-Saturday and noon4:30 p.m. Sunday (closed Thanksgiving and Christmas).

1 Otis Blvd., 662-842-4242

November 30

December 8

November 22 Downtown Tupelo Holiday Open House

Annual Lighting of Ballard Park

Saltillo Christmas Parade

Kick off the holiday season with performances by school choirs, a Tupelo Parks and Recreation open house, train rides and a toy exhibit at Oren Dunn Museum, plus a meet-and-greet and photos with the Grinch (read more about him on page 51). Lighting takes place at 6 p.m.

December 10

Annual Christmas parade takes place on Mobile Street.

Apply by Dec. 4 to participate in the parade by emailing LHines@saltilloms.org. 7 p.m.; rain date Dec. 10.

Gaither Christmas Homecoming

Tupelo Community Theatre Off Broadway presents Pulitzer Prize-winning comedy-drama Dinner With Friends. Tickets $20. 7:30 p.m., 213 E. Franklin. 662-844-1935

December 3

November 27-29

Compete in a holiday-themed trivia contest. 7:30 p.m., TCT Off Broadway, 213 E. Franklin. 662-844-1935

Multiple Grammy winner Bill Gaither is joined by Wes Hampton, David Phelps, Adam Crabb and Todd Suttles for a holiday concert. Tickets $23.50-$69.50. 7 p.m., BancorpSouth Arena. bcsarena.com

December 3

December 10-12

Holiday Flea Market A special holiday-themed Tupelo Flea Market takes place at Tupelo Furniture Market Buildings I and III. Admission $1, kids under age 6 free. The flea market is regularly held the second weekend of each month. tupelofleamarket.net

December 12 An Evening with Paul Thorn A benefit concert supports Regional Rehabilitation Center.

Tickets, $100, include admission, two drinks and dinner.

Showtime is 6:30 p.m. at Sadie J Farm, 3118 Highway 6, Plantersville, Miss., in the Paul Thorn Auditorium. Call Regional Rehab at 662-842-1891 to reserve tickets.

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2015

Ugly Christmas Sweater Trivia

Sippin’ Cider

A Christmas Carol

Sales and cider-tasting at downtown Saltillo’s first Sippin’ Cider holiday shopping event. 5-7 p.m.; lighting of the Christmas tree takes place at 5 p.m.

Tupelo Community Theatre brings Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol to the stage. Tickets $18; students $6.

7:30 p.m., Lyric Theatre. tct.ms

December 4

December 12

Reed’s Tupelo Christmas Parade This year’s “A Night of Lights” Christmas parade is led by Grand Marshals Jeff and Linda Daniels of the Salvation Army. 7-9 p.m., downtown. tupelomainstreet.com

Christmas with the NMSO North Mississippi Symphony Orchestra concert features the NMSO Children’s Chorus and holiday sing-a-long favorites. 8:30 p.m., Link Centre. nmsymphony.com

for a

Christmas to remember!

5623, 5831, 5916, 5903, 6110, 6001, 6119 FAMILY FUN November 11

Hope for the Holidays North Mississippi Dance Center hosts its third annual Hope for the Holidays performance to benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Tickets $15, 11 a.m. and 7 p.m., Tupelo High School Performing Arts Center. northmsdance.com

November 19-21 THS Soccer Jamboree All high school soccer teams are invited to take part in a three-day tournament. $150 per team. 4:30-8:30 p.m.

Thursday and Friday; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday. Ballard Park. 601-307-3515

November 20 and December 11 Kids Night at Heathworks!

Children ages 4-12 get a fun night at Healthworks!

Parents get a night off. Dinner is provided. 5:30-8:30 p.m.

Register early for $15 per child; $10 per member child.

662-377-5437, healthworkskidsms.org

November 21 Junior Ranger Program: Disappearing Act Junior rangers learn about animal camouflage at Natchez Trace Parkway Visitor Center. Free. 10 a.m., milepost 266 on the Natchez Trace Parkway. 662-680-4027

November 28 Pioneer Day The Tombigbee Pioneer Group performs living history demonstrations while families make pioneer-era crafts.

Held fourth Saturday of each month. 10 a.m.-3 p.m., milepost 266 on the Natchez Trace Parkway. 662-680-4027

December 12 Junior Ranger Program: Toy Box Learn about popular pioneer-era toys and make one to keep at Natchez Trace Visitor Center. Free. 10 a.m., milepost 266 on the Natchez Trace Parkway. 662-680-4027

M ii dd SSoouutthh N Nuurrsseerryy

Coley Tupelo Mississippi • 6• 6626.28.4824.24.149149 4 339339 Coley Rd.Road, Tupelo, Mississippi • 662.842.4194 339 Coley Road, Tupelo Mississippi November 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

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Corner SINCE OPENING IN 2010 UNDER THE

903 VARSITY DR. | TUPELO, MS | 662.842.1292 info@staggsinteriors.com • www.staggsinteriors.com MONDAY - FRIDAY 9-5

direction of Dr. Joe Bailey, Tree of Life Free Clinic has treated more than 14,000 patients and provided more than 50,000 prescriptions to Mississippians in need of health and dental care.

HOW IT WORKS

Tree of Life serves patients who do not have Medicare, Medicaid, health insurance or another ability to pay. The clinic, at 541 W. Main St., is open the first Wednesday of each month at 4:30 p.m. for 80 medical and 15 dental patients, and the third Saturday of each month at 8:30 a.m. for 120 medical and dental patients.

It is staffed by 35 volunteers.

WHAT’S NEW?

Thanks to grants from Create Foundation and Toyota, a covered porch was added to shelter waiting patients, some of whom arrive up to 10 hours before the clinic opens. Other large donors include Zip Scripts, Cold Mix, the George and Dot Ruff Foundation and B&B Concrete.

HOW TO HELP

The clinic relies entirely on donations, from the building itself (provided by Calvary Baptist Church) to furnishings to snacks for waiting patients. Volunteers and monetary donations are always needed. For questions or more information, contact Polly Bailey at 662-842-8788.

Donations may be sent to Tree of Life, P.O. Box 847, Tupelo, MS 38802 or Polly Bailey, 2306 Parkway Drive, Tupelo, MS 38804.

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2015

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IN SEASON

Recipes for Holiday Gatherings WRITTEN BY Melanie Crownover

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2015

Cranberry Relish Submitted by Connie and Robert Marion. Connie is president of Lee County Master Gardeners, and Robert is chairman of the master gardeners’ help center call line.

1 orange, unpeeled 2 cups fresh cranberries 1 cup Granny Smith apple, unpeeled and chopped 8 ounces crushed pineapple, well drained 1/3 cup granulated sugar ½ cup pecans, chopped

Quarter orange, and remove seeds. Finely chop in food processor or with a sharp knife. Grind or chop cranberries. Combine all ingredients.

Refrigerate. Serve chilled. To make a congealed salad, prepare 1 large package cranberry Jell-O (on shelves seasonally) according to instructions on box, blending above ingredients into Jell-O mixture before refrigerating. The relish tastes great on turkey sandwiches.

Graham Family Ham Sauce Submitted by master gardener Kyoko Graham 1 can (16 ounces) whole cranberry sauce 1 can (8 ounces) crushed pineapple, undrained ½ cup dark brown sugar ½ cup golden raisins ½ cup port wine, moscato wine or brandy Combine all ingredients except wine or brandy in a large, heavy saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent scorching. Reduce heat to a simmer, and add wine or brandy. Cook until sauce reaches desired thickness. Serve warm over sliced baked ham. Keeps in refrigerator for 3-4 days.

BOOK COVER ART BY EMILY TANNER

T

upelo native Susan Wade jokes that when she joined Lee County Master Gardeners 10 years ago, she had no idea being a good cook was an unspoken requirement for becoming a member.

“When you put as much time as we do into growing something, you want to make sure everyone enjoys eating it, so almost all of us know our way around the kitchen,” she said.

“We kept saying we should make a cookbook because every time we had a group function, we would end up trying to hunt down and swap recipes for three or four days.”

It took Wade four years to collect the content from local chapter members, but Mastering Mealtime & More with Lee County, Mississippi Master Gardeners went on sale in August. The publication features 450 recipes in a three-ring binder book, and all proceeds go to funding the group’s community projects.

The cookbook is divided into 13 sections, including a V.I.P. chapter dedicated to recipes from local chefs and experts.

Most of the dishes are potluck classics or dinner table-tested favorites, but the book features more than main courses and desserts.

In addition to recipes for items such as dog biscuits and natural cleaners, useful gardening tips are also included.

“We wanted to share a little more than just nutrition,” Wade said. “The heart of master gardeners is about educating, so it makes sense that even our cookbook wouldn’t only be about food. When it is about the food, we just want it to be so good you get recipe requests. These are three of my favorites.”

The cookbook can be purchased for $20 at the Mississippi State University Lee County Extension Office, 5338 Cliff Gookin Blvd. For more information, call 662-841-9000.

Pineapple-Orange Cake Submitted by master gardener Lonnie Neaves and wife Ann Neaves CAKE: 1 box yellow cake mix 4 large eggs 1/3 cup vegetable oil 2 small boxes instant vanilla pudding 2 cans (20 ounces each) crushed pineapple, drained and juice reserved 2 cans (15 ounces each) mandarin oranges, drained 1 (16-ounce) carton Cool Whip Combine cake mix, eggs, oil, one box pudding and one can drained, crushed pineapple. Fold in oranges. Pour into a 13 x 9-inch baking dish.

Bake at 350°F for 35 minutes. Poke holes in top of cake with a knife, and drizzle with pineapple juice reserved from both cans for extra moistness. Let cake cool. For icing, combine last can drained, crushed pineapple with cool whip and second box pudding. Frost cake, and then refrigerate for several hours.

November 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2015

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events Chili Fest

View more event photos @ invitationtupelo.com.

Downtown Tupelo Main Street Association hosted the 16th annual Chili Fest Oct. 16 in downtown Tupelo. The event was presented by AT&T and sponsored by Bud Light, and it included lunch from BBQ by Jim, live music and a chili cookoff.

Bo Tanner, Anna Grace Ward, Hal Page, Donna Stevens and Lawrence Webb

Jodie and Jamie Osbirn and Mike Webb

Mike Hinton, Ashley Lindley, Jordan Jaggers, Donnie Kisner, Lacy Bennett, Devani Adams, Karen Dickey and Jon Paul Rhea

Dalton Healy, Bailey Kesler and Louis Britton

Ron Robinson, Tim Tubb and Chase Robinson

Kim Coker, Tracy Carlock, Cindy Walsh, Whitney Ward and Gary Lauderdale

Britni Beasley, Amanda Lane, Summer Smith, Kelli Fowler and Kayla Baxter

Jason Beck, Whitney Pegues-Beck, Jenny Jones, Tom Booth, Lee Hartmann and Bo Alexander

Amanda Robinson; Patrice Gamblin; Audrey, Jake and Christy Stewart; and Sherri McClain

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2015

photographed by Lisa Roberts

(front) Brittany Rogers with Clayton, Charles and Kathryn Rhea and Maddin McCord; (back) Kyle Rogers, Harris Rhea, Mikey Hunter and Hank Hutto

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November 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

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photographed by Lisa Roberts

events Imagine the Possibilities Career Expo View more event photos @ invitationtupelo.com.

More than 3,200 eighth graders from seven North Mississippi counties attended the annual Imagine the Possibilities Career Expo, held Oct. 6 and 7 at BancorpSouth Arena. Students explored a variety of possible career paths with interactive, hands-on activities.

Ella Kate Nichols, Kera Heatherly, Sol Diaz, Anna Sauerwein and Merary Zoniga

Will Morgan, Sheri Hall, Jaycie Davis and Lexi Miller

Katsuaki Nasu and Jayde Richardson

Ann Hinds, Amanda Caldwell and Mona Grady

Ginny Ray Clevenger and Allison Johnson

Tea Townsend, Orie Davis and Melissa Carr

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2015

Brianna Marie Wildman, Leslie Poston and Josie Jackson

Lexi Black, Houston Franks, Zain Gargus, Hanniah Coleman and McKenna Garrison

Jimmy Weeks, Sean Suggs and Chad McMahan

November 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

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photographed by Chasity Dees

events Race for the Cure View more event photos @ invitationtupelo.com.

The North Mississippi Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure took place Oct. 24 in Fairpark. Money raised for the event goes to breast cancer research, education and screening programs, with 75 percent of the funds staying in North Mississippi to benefit local women.

Kimberly Stevens and Tina Biffle

Garrett, Josh and Audrey Williams

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Patsy C. Scott, Regina McDaniel, June Towery and Tammy McCalpin

Teresa Richardson, Amanda Pitts Summers and Belinda Foster

Rita Barrios and Annette Moreno

Stanley Green and Christine Henderson

Durlene Ezell and Jeneice Fields

Daiton and David Strange

INVITATION TUPELO | November 2015

Juaria Hadley and Rhonda Harris

November 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

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events Saltillo Homecoming Parade View more event photos @ invitationtupelo.com.

Saltillo High School’s homecoming parade made its way through downtown Saltillo, Miss., Oct. 15. The parade was part of the school’s homecoming celebrations, which also included a spirit week and a Friday night football game against Center Hill.

Jon Sprinkle, Chris Butler, Dylon Letson, Jackson Smith, Drake McCarter and Daniel Blassingame

Front: Millie White, Demi Doty, Chelsea Harbin, Kadie Rogers, Emma Roellgen, Jayce Schoolar, Brittany George, Katlyn Parker and Kera Cook; Back: Zach Turba, Matt Howell, Ashley Copeland, Josh Peek, Zack Elliott, Tye Washington, Dylan Helms, Kenzye Simmons and Austin Ross

Alexis Harris and C.J. Dean

Owen Boutwell and Keilah Russell

Andrew Weddle and Catherine Adams

Rani Higgins and Victor Frausto

Britton Webb and Houston Parker

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Hollie-Beth Nicholson and Zach Swain

Cade Knight and Andi Herring

INVITATION TUPELO | November 2015

Gage Thomas and Holly Brooke Roper

Drew Monaghan and Lara Grace Fair

Ken Gassaway and Bailey Kowach

Beth Brinkley and Logan Miller

photographed by Lisa Roberts

Hailey Hagemann and Bailey Phillips

Anna Lauren Morse and Tripp Magee

Katie Flowers and Kaleb Malone November 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

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Halloween Happenings ZOMBIE FUN RUN AT BALLARD PARK

Casey Zappa, Philip Brown and Brandy Webb Mia Patterson, Anna Belle, Maggie Collum and Haley Dean

Andi, Chris and Ella Dunn

TUPELO HALLOWEEN HORROR FILM FESTIVAL

William Barfield, Keira Mayo and Sarah Toal

Derek Baker with Kristen and Seth Wilson

Jessica Harbin, Dana Specker and Traci Tanner

TUPELO COMMUNITY THEATRE’S HAUNTED THEATRE AT THE LYRIC

Cate Burroughs, Emmalee Blaylock and Sydney Hudges

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Cole Herrington with Rose and Clara Del-Grande and Mace McFerrin

INVITATION TUPELO | November 2015

Katie Cole, Melina Wilson and Kristin Kelly

Savanna Robbins and Jared Dillard

HALLOWEEN EGG HUNT AND TRUNK OR TREAT AT BALLARD PARK

Shanica Cayson with Kylie and Kaylee Townsend

Hayze, Emmy, Peysley and Garren Earp

Paige and Ledger Enis

Dillon and Natalie Davis with Gracie Robbins and Scarlett and Marti Wray

Angelica, Hunter, Skylar, Kenzie and Dakota Dabbs

Jacqueline and Jaina Barefoot

Latonya Edwards and Jaylon Braylock

Madelyn, Chris, Shaina and Leightyn Gifford

Emma Kate, Anna Grace and Maddie Pearson

Felecia Roby with Saige and Skylin Jernigan

November 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

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photographed by Lisa Roberts

events Barktoberfest View more event photos @ invitationtupelo.com.

Pets and their owners took part in costume and look-alike contests during Barktoberfest, held Oct. 17 at Tupelo Bark Park. Guest speaker Lydia Sattler, state director for the Humane Society of the United States, discussed Mississippi animal cruelty laws.

Jill Richey and Amy Trapp with Marley and Bella

Kim Wade with Jap

Ryan and Lewis Russell with Belle

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Nina and Tony Willis with Gunner, Scarlett Belle and Briley Bob

Shanta Bolden, Summer Knight and Lydia Sattler

Holly Kight with Val

INVITATION TUPELO | November 2015

Jamey Bishop with Halo

Meredith Craig with Tillie

November 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

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photographed by Chasity Dees

events Celebration Village View more event photos @ invitationtupelo.com.

Sanctuary Hospice House held its annual Celebration Village holiday market Oct. 21-23 at Tupelo Furniture Market. The event raises funds for Sanctuary, a nonprofit organization that has provided in-patient and home hospice services to thousands since 2005.

Monica Maitisdale and Helen Buscham

Diane McGee with Jack and Van Cooper and Carly Wilbanks

Nelda Bell and Renae Bennett

Shannon Roberts and Shelly Powell

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Paula Malone, Pam Fair and Tina Franks

Jim and Phyllis Hurley

INVITATION TUPELO | November 2015

Kara Courtney and Cheryl Bowen

Carole Brightbill, Peggy Cole and Susan C. Sheehan

Megan Moore and Dawn Pilgreen

Kim Fandel and Teletha Newell

Come visit us for all your fall trends!

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events Corinth Homecoming Parade View more event photos @ invitationtupelo.com.

Corinth High School kicked off its homecoming celebrations Oct. 15 with a downtown parade and pep rally. Fans were also invited to tailgate before the football game the next night against Itawamba Agricultural High School, which Corinth won 64-25.

Millie Hill and Parker Peterson

Molly Lambert, Olivia Bonds, Alyssa Adams and Bennett Harwood

Taylian Lewis and Logan Freeman

Ashton Murrah and Baylee Howard

Madison Woodruff and Anna Ruth Price

Hays Crozier and Jack Davis

Demontra Bell, Elijah Gates and Hunter Robbins

Cole Crozier, Baylor Frazier and Carter Crozier

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P.J. Savell, Peyton Ross, Taylor Frye and Elizabeth Hayes

Keyara Moore, Homecoming Queen Jourdana Jourdan and Anna Turner

INVITATION TUPELO | November 2015

Claire and Karen Isbell

Gregg, Joel and Deb Parker

Mark Stephan Larson, Hunter Avent, Madeline Shirley, Noah Hill and Dylon Stephens

photographed by Whitney Worsham

Chris Kelly, Jon D. Warren, Axavius Stricklen and Will Gardner

Noah Hill and Kate Madden Worsham

Beverly Napier with Hannah and Angela Avent

Tamara Tyes, T’Keeyah Cummings, Timantha Turner and Merritt Smith November 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

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photographed by Whitney Worsham

events Hog Wild BBQ Festival View more event photos @ invitationtupelo.com.

The 25th annual Hog Wild BBQ Festival took place Oct. 1-3 in Corinth, Miss. The family-friendly event included live entertainment, a Kansas City BBQ Society-sanctioned barbecue contest and a carnival. Visit mainstreetcorinth.com to learn more.

Brian, Amy and Courtney Craven with Pierce Langley

Harrison and Sara Beth Stockton Green

Kyle Holcombe and Megan Parrish

B. Wayne McAlpin with Deb and Phillip Rutherford and Chip Wood

Miriam Wade and Bernice Stafford

Zebulon Null and Hannah Johnson

Tammy Johnson with Boone and Kate Bingham

Brent Johnson and Brian McCullen

Stephanie, Joe, Addyson and McKinley Moore

CONGRATULATIONS TO RETA DOUGHTY FOR SALES EXCEEDING “1 MILLION DOLLARS” IN SEPTEMBER, 2015

123 Prairie Cv., Tupelo, MS 38801 MLS #15-2293 $218,000

471 CR 600, Shannon, MS 38868 MLS 15-2884 $725,000

1222 Clayton Ave., Tupelo, MS 38804 1739 Northwood, Tupelo, MS 38804 MLS #15-2304 $199,000

Testimonial “Reta went above and beyond the duties of a Realtor during the purchase of my first house. She was completely professional and still personal during the whole process. I knew very little in terms of legalities and the buying process, but Reta made it all very easy and worry free. Needless to say, I’ll be referring her to all my friends looking to buy or sell as well as using her in the future.”

Dr. Ryan Black

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2015

MLS #15-832 $449,500

Call us for your listing appointment now!!

Pinnacle Realty, LLC 398 East Main Street, Suite 101 Tupelo, MS 38804 662-321-0191 • 662-266-2006

November 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

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photographed by Lisa Roberts

events Saltillo Scarecrow Festival and Buddy Walk View more event photos @ invitationtupelo.com.

A scarecrow festival was held Oct. 3 in downtown Saltillo, Miss., in conjunction with the Buddy Walk. The events benefited a community-funded project for local schools and the Northeast Mississippi chapter of the National Down Syndrome Society.

Jillian McCollum and Anna Meryn Gable

Britton Webb, Hollie-Beth Nicholson, Laiken Herring and Anna Claire Lyle

Mollie Davidson, Keri Horne and Danielle Seale

Marty, Melody and Jase Smith

34

Jeremy Gardner, Abby Wilson, Todd Simmons, Melanie Wilson and Amanda Simmons

Tess and Levi Parker with Brad McMurry and Cadence Floyd

INVITATION TUPELO | November 2015

Reagan Newton and Katelynn Stidham

Tara Lyle, Jenny Fleming, Kayla Bradley and Amy Sheffield

Claire Evans, Katelyn Justice and Erin Ford

Jeff, Abbey Rose and Cindy King

OUR WEBSITE HAS A NEW LOOK!

Visit invitationtupelo.com today!

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TRUE or FALSE? Colorectal cancer is the 2nd leading cancer killer.

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2015

Document: 1037992_Digestive.eps;Page: 1;Format:(125.40 x 254.00 mm);Plate: Composite;Date: Feb 04, 2015 10:07:12;JPC 72 DPI

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November 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

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The Amory Regional Museum is dedicated to preserve, curate and archive historical significant regional history, genealogical interest, and provide innovative, educational programming that celebrates the culture and community of Amory, Mississippi and the surrounding area.

BeEnvied !

Photography by Chasity Dees Floral Arrangement by J Edward Design Hair & Makeup by Shear Envy

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2015

unwind at

SOUTHWIND Elegant country retreat Southwind was built on 600 acres of one family’s land in Shannon, Miss., to host weddings and other formal events.

WRITTEN BY Melanie Crownover | PHOTOGRAPHED BY Danny K Photography

GUESTS VISITING SOUTHWIND begin their experience when they pull onto the gravel drive and pass beneath a hand-hewn wooden ranch gate. The pristine lakeside view and the occasional deer peeking around the oak trees make it a peaceful country retreat.

Yet the amenities at the heart of this getaway – from the rustic tin-roofed barn outfitted with handmade wooden furniture to the outdoor fire pit surrounded by porch swings and an extensive sound system – make it clear that this is also a place to gather family and friends for down-home Southwind’s rustic tin-roofed barn has 4,600 square feet of indoor party space on two floors and more outside on an open patio and a covered side porch.

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2015

celebrations.

Jim Homan got the idea for his elegant backwoods event center while tending the land where he grew up in Shannon, Miss.

“I was out cleaning the surrounding area – about 600 acres that have been in the family for 100 years. This place right here was never just a cow pasture with a hill to me. Call me a dreamer, but I saw this,” he said. “Now I’m a 51-year-old bachelor who owns a wedding barn.”

Construction on the Amish-inspired structure began in May 2014 after Jim got permission from his dad, James Homan, to build on his future inheritance a bit early. Three 18-wheeler loads of white pine lumber were delivered from an Ohio Amish sawmill for the project, providing pieces like the 35-foot wood posts that support the two floors of gathering area inside.

Upstairs, guests can look out on the lake from the hayloft window or watch the party below from a bar that frames the affair going on downstairs. A pair of iron chandeliers illuminates stained concrete floors and highlights the natural wood walls that still fill the interior with the scent of fresh-cut lumber.

Outfitted with a fully furnished man cave for the groomsmen, a bridal suite, four bathrooms, two bars and a caterer’s kitchen, the site offers ample room for the picturesque weddings Jim first imagined filling the space.

“I haven’t always been sure about all of his ideas, but I’ve always backed him,” James said of his son. “If he needs a bench to go outside or a big frame to hang from a tree for making pictures or someone to park cars, I’m there. Ends up, I think he knows what he’s doing out here.”

James helped his son outfit Southwind – hand-building banquet tables from old doors, conversation tables from whiskey barrels and wooden spools, barstools from leftover pine, and even the arbor by the lake.

“Brides come in and say, ‘How do others do it?’ and I say there’s no set way here. I intentionally left it blank so you can be as elegant

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Mallory and Jeremy Lawson of Tupelo, pictured at far left, chose Southwind, with its rustic elegance and Southern country charm, for their Sept. 19, 2015, wedding ceremony and reception.

November 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2015

AUBURN

“This place just speaks to people and makes them feel at home like it always has for me. That’s a feeling that makes any event better.”

- Jim Homan or simplistic as you want,” Jim said. “We just want you to see and be focused on that ideal you wanted to see while you’re here.”

The simple, blank canvas is possible thanks to some intentional details: the barn’s entrance is positioned to face “sunset west”; parking is hidden behind the building; and electrical lines are buried underground.

Guests instead focus on the welcoming, open-air venue made for outdoor celebrations.

Jim installed 9,000 square feet of concrete to make an uncovered front patio that faces the lake and a covered porch with rocking chairs, ceiling fans and a grilling area on the side. A gas fire pit surrounded by James’ handmade porch swings provides a spot to mingle with other guests. The outdoor sound system has eight circuits for a band or DJ and power, sewer and water hookups fit for a tour bus.

Jim plans to add a covered 2,000-squarefoot pavilion before the spring to accommodate the expanding schedule, rain or shine. In addition to the expected weddings, Southwind has hosted events such as family and school reunions, anniversary and birthday parties, dances and business retreats.

The venue is currently booked for 30 weekends next year, and one wedding is already scheduled for October 2017. The response has been surprising, even for Jim. “I kind of feel bad when someone asks for August now and I have to ask what year because I really thought it would take a while for this to catch on,” he said. “This place just speaks to people and makes them feel at home like it always has for me. That’s a feeling that makes any event better.”

Family medical clinic Amy Forrest, CFNP Angel Harbin, CFNP

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149 N. Eason Blvd. Tupelo, MS

NORTH MISSISSIPPI SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA presents

Christmas with the NMSO DECEMBER 12, 2015 AT 7:30PM

The NMSO performs one of the region’s finest Christmas programs in the intimate Link Centre Concert Hall, featuring the NMSO Children’s Chorus and some holiday sing-a-long favorites!

Link Centre Concert Hall Call 662.842.8433 for tickets or visit www.nmsymphony.com

Inside and out, Southwind’s rustic decor fits into the natural surroundings and allows brides to make their reception as elegant or simplistic as they want by adding their own personal touches.

November 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

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The smash burger recently brought Neon Pig national attention, but the restaurant’s real success is in serving up ingredients sourced from Mississippi farms that are also focused on bringing homegrown goodness to consumers.

WRITTEN BY Melanie Crownover | PHOTOGRAPHED BY Joe Worthem

Meat sold at Neon Pig is sourced from local farmers and cut in the store.

It’s used in the restaurant’s dishes and sold to customers who visit the butcher’s counter. Other Mississippimade goods, such as jam, honey and rice, line the restaurant’s store shelves.

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2015

ONE VISIT TO TUPELO’S NEON PIG CAFÉ MAKES IT CLEAR THIS IS A PLACE WHERE THE EAT LOCAL MOVEMENT HAS RISEN TO THE NEXT LEVEL. The shelves lining the walls are stacked to the ceiling with homemade goods for sale: jars of honey from Paw Paw’s Bee Farm in Shannon, Miss., Delta Blues Rice out of Ruleville, Miss., and Glicco’s Pasta Gravy from West Point, Miss. Produce from St. Bethany Fresh in Pontotoc, Miss., sits ready for purchase beside a cooler full of Popsy gourmet ice pops out of Tupelo and a case of desserts from Sugaree’s Bakery in New Albany, Miss.

Signature smash burgers – named for

their combination of ground aged filet, ribeye, sirloin and New York strip, and recently voted No. 1 burger in the country in a thrillist.com poll – sizzle on the grill, drawing patrons past the barnwood-and-tin bar stocked with craft beers to the register. There, a full-service butcher’s counter teems with a selection of meats that are delivered from nearby farms and cut on site.

Sourcing ingredients close to home became an obsession after partners Seth Cope-

land, Trish McCluney and Mitchell McCamey opened the downtown establishment in 2012.

It all started with requests to Native Son Farm and Memory Orchard in Tupelo for fresh produce and cakes.

“We wanted to do things differently because hardly anyone in business here was doing this then,” Copeland said. “This is the way it used to be in a kitchen. We don’t know how it got so far away from that, but who better to support with your business than your neigh-

November 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

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“THIS IS THE WAY IT USED TO BE IN A KITCHEN. WE DON’T KNOW HOW IT GOT SO FAR AWAY FROM THAT, BUT WHO BETTER TO SUPPORT WITH YOUR BUSINESS THAN YOUR NEIGHBOR? ESPECIALLY WHEN IT MAKES EVERYTHING YOU DO TASTE BETTER.” -SETH COPELAND

bor? Especially when it makes everything you do taste better.”

From those first two connections sprouted a network of farmers ready to join forces. No longer did the co-owners have to search for collaborators to fill their larders and their patrons’ bellies with locally grown goodness. Each new partnership brought more opportunity by word of mouth.

Only a handful of the products hailed from more than two hours away, much less out of state. The ones that did were still made in the South.

Neon Pig management visited each farm to verify the livestock was treated well and the products and produce were made and cultivated to meet their high standards. The nearby farmers’ attention to detail and dedication to Above, Neon Pig co-owners Seth Copeland, Trish McCluney and Mitch McCamey. Far right, the restaurant’s trademark smash burger was recently voted No. 1 burger in the country. Try one at the restaurant or make one at home by picking up the ingredients from Neon Pig’s refrigerator case.

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2015

November 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

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Neon Pig is dedicated to promoting, selling and serving locally produced and harvested goods, from cheese and candy to produce and meat.

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2015

their products only reassured the trio that they were on the right path.

“We love doing business with them because we’re trying to accomplish the same thing: It isn’t about quantity or the money; we want our products to be the best,” Billy Ray Brown of Brown Family Dairy in Oxford said.

“Our hogs eat barley from Yalobusha Brewery down the road and get leftovers from our milk and cheese production, and they don’t stay cooped on top of each other in a pen. The happier they are, the better their flavor – just like with our cows and their milk.”

That attention to quality ingredients is included in each recipe at Neon Pig. They created their daily specials by mixing new items available on the store shelves with commodities such as the fresh pork, eggs and milk they get from Brown. The fusion turned their down-home comfort and bar food menu into something unique and gave customers a taste of the products they could take home to add flavor in their own kitchens.

Soon businesses previously considered competition began to approach Neon Pig about partnerships.

Many local restaurants – including the trio’s other business, Kermit’s Outlaw Kitchen – get fresh fish and cuts of beef and pork from the counter. The Blue Canoe began buying meat there long before Neon Pig even opened a kitchen, and now Blue Canoe bacon jam is a best-seller on Neon Pig’s store shelves.

“That’s the only other place you can get it besides ours, and they sell more than we do,” owner Adam Morgan said. “It’s confusing to some people how we all back each other up here, but the independent local businesses are all fighting the same fight. We’re all in this together to bring customers back to hometown tables and goods.”

Such partnerships support the local economy by promoting fellow small-business entrepreneurs, and encouraging customers to spend their dollars locally. It doesn’t hurt that the mélange of products is now exporting area

flavor all over the country thanks to Neon Pig’s smash burger fame.

“A lot of people come in for that, but the funky, laid-back atmosphere and whole menu make them want to take some of that home.

We had a guy come in from South Carolina the other day that filled a cooler with $700 worth of products before he left,” McCluney said. “That’s how we know we’re doing something right.”

Neon Pig is slated to open a second location soon at 711 N. Lamar Blvd. in Oxford.

The new café will start with the same ingredients as the original restaurant, though the owners hope to find even more Oxford-produced goods to incorporate into the menu as the business grows.

To find out more about what Neon Pig has in the butcher’s case and on the menu today, visit them on Facebook or check out neonpig.net. Read more about the art of butchering and why local meat is best in our interview with Copeland at invitationtupelo.com.

November 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2015

Merry Grinch-mas!

Tupelo’s own Grinch has become an anticipated holiday tradition. This year the grouchy but lovable character will debut a new and improved costume and an expanded entourage of Whoville friends.

“ Merry”

might be the last word used to describe Louis Armour around the holidays. His dimples only come out with his signature smirk. His eyes twinkle best when paired with a caustic remark. And that bowl full of jelly under his belt only shakes when mischief is underway.

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF LOUIS ARMOUR

WRITTEN BY Melanie Crownover | PHOTOGRAPHED BY Chasity Dees

One might say Christmas makes the 60-year-old Tupelo native so sick he turns green. Grinchy green, that is.

Armour has played the adored Dr. Seuss character in town since 2009. But he started spreading holiday cheer almost a decade ago when his daughter, Kristyn Martz, needed

a cohort for a character she created called Ramius the Reindeer who handed out candy canes and took free pictures with families at the local mall.

“It was an act of kindness for beleaguered parents who were shopping at that time,” Martz said. “For the first couple of years I played November 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

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TOP PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF LOUIS ARMOUR

Ramius, Dad came along in an elf hat to act as a handler and help with crowd control. But when he started dressing up as the Grinch in 2009, he quickly became the main attraction.”

Martz, a member of the West of Shake Rag comedy troupe, soon turned in Ramius’ antlers for an overgrown mustache and police uniform to become Whoville’s Constable Whodunnit, the unlucky cop tasked with supervising the Grinch’s community service hours.

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2015

The two travel all over the city to pass out Armour’s candid version of holiday cheer at local stores, museums and hospitals. Their float in the Tupelo Christmas Parade has brought home an award each of the five years they’ve entered, and they even go to local elementary schools to share the beloved Dr. Seuss story.

Getting into character for the appearances is no problem for the father-daughter team, but getting dressed is another matter. It takes

more than two hours for Armour to apply his makeup. First he glues on the separate homemade rubber forehead, eyebrow and cheek prosthetics – a complex façade that must be remade each year but allows for more expression than a one-piece rubber mask. Then comes a meticulous blending of several shades of stage makeup and swatches of fake facial fur and paint to tint Armour’s beard.

Martz and Armour created the elaborate

Top, Grinch appearances include the annual Tupelo Christmas parade and visits to local schools. Bottom, Louis Armour, who plays the Grinch, poses with part of his upgraded costume, which debuts this holiday season.

makeup and the costumes entirely by hand.

Special fur pants were sewn by Martz; she made a Santa coat from an old robe years ago for Ramius; and Armour made gloves by applying Grinch hair to rubber gloves. The disheveled handmade green wig featuring the Grinch’s trademark mohawk is carefully blended into Armour’s tinted beard once it’s put on. A fur collar finishes the ensemble.

“By the time I get all of that on, sometimes my wife [who has played both Martha May Who and the Mayor of Whoville] has to tell me to tone my Grinch down,” Armour said. “There’s a reason people don’t line up to do this version of the character when I retire: most take the easy route and put on a Santa outfit with a rubber face. This is complicated, hot work, but I’m ready to suit right back up when I see the kids buy into it 100 percent.”

This year, the king of holiday humbug and his entourage are getting a makeover.

Armour set up a GoFundMe web page after last season to raise money to make spreading holiday cheer more comfortable. They raised $2,000 to create a new Grinch costume made from the same synthetic fabric used for Grinch costumes at Universal Studios Theme Parks, a $360-per-yard investment that will make a cooler and more flexible suit.

The order came with a big surprise when Armour contacted the dealer (National Fiber Technology) about getting enough of the spandex-backed material to create his costume.

“After he told them what we were doing, we got this letter saying they were sending us even more fur than we asked for. It was $3,000 worth of material, but they charged us $0 because of how we use the suit [for charity purposes],” Martz said. “Now I won’t have to be like a mom asking him if he needs to hydrate and how his knees are every few minutes.”

With the free fur on the way, the pair used the money raised for other aspects of their act.

The new Grinch costume will have a sweat-wicking running suit underneath, along November 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2015

Kristyn Martz, Louis Armour and Victor Armstrong pose with the Grinch façade, which is remade by Armour each year. Stage makeup and Grinch fur are used to apply it to Armour’s face and blend it into his hairline and beard.

with a cooling vest under the coat to prevent overheating. His new face prosthetics will be made of silicone, a substance that’s more maneuverable and cooler to wear. They also bought a used mobility scooter they are transforming into a Grinch-mobile. The vehicle should help Armour, who has two arthritic knees, outlast the crowds on longer engagements.

The money will also allow the duo to add a new character to the parade lineup that has expanded over the years to include family and friends dressed as the Professor of Whostory, the Whoville mailman, the town mayor and a handful of Whoville citizens.

Another essential member of the entourage is Victor Armstrong, a friend of Armour’s since eighth grade, who drives him to appearances and oversees the details. Armstrong is also responsible for most of the construction of the Grinch sled, slated to get an upgrade next year.

This year, Martz will occasionally pass the role of Constable Whodunnit to another, and she will become the one-man Whoville Marching Band.

“It’s a one-man band, so I hope that will finally bring some of the attention back around to the one who started all this,” Armour said, referring to his daughter’s new gig. “We want to keep this going and growing. There are a lot of ideas for Whoville characters we would love to add; we just need the Grinch to round up the people and resources to do it all when he gets off of holiday probation.”

The new and improved Grinch and his crew will make their debut in late November at local schools for interactive storytelling performances. Other appearances include their annual visits to Barnes and Noble, the Oren Dunn Museum, North Mississippi Medical Center and the city’s Christmas parade Dec. 4.

To Tide find out more about the Grinch’s holiSouthern day schedule, or to volunteer or donate to the Spring Collection show, search for Tupelo Grinch on Facebook.

For an exclusive interview with the Grinch himself, visit invitationtupelo.com.

DRESS BETTER THAN YOU HAVE TO 108 SOUTH SPRING STREET • DOWNTOWN TUPELO November 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

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SHARE YOUR EXCITING NEWS WITH AN

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HALF PAGE, $90 Includes one picture and 100-150 words.

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For more information, please call Hallie at (662) 234-4008 or email hallielandonmarshall@gmail.com.

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2015

the cotton bolt

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November 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

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events Play for the Cure Golf Classic View more event photos @ invitationtupelo.com.

The Play for the Cure Golf Classic tournament and gala took place Oct. 3-4 at Fulton Country Club. Funds benefit brain cancer research at MD Anderson Cancer Center at the University of Texas, where Fulton resident Martin Richardson is receiving treatment.

Martin Richardson, Sharion Aycock, Leah Richardson and Natalie Kline

Ricky Riley, Shane Garvin, Nick Sparks and Justin Parker

Don Leathers and Boyd Cowart

Chance Prestage and Wesley Roberts

Erin Clinard and Heather Williamson

Josh Logan, Tyler Young and Clint Berthay

Ryan Berthany, Chris Edwards and Eric Peterson

Kayla, Sabrina and Noel Prestage

Kristin Logan, Katie Young and Kenzie Pennington

Michael Osbirn, Trae Belk, Chris Jones, Zack Jones and Kevin Cowart

Bo Summerford and Marilyn Wilkerson with Marc and Caitlin Berry and Kevin Knight

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2015

photographed by Lisa Roberts

V.M. and Melanie Cleveland

B.J. Johnson and Sam Summerford

Clay and Jessica Dozier November 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

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events Saltillo Paint Party View more event photos @ invitationtupelo.com.

Saltillo Junior Women’s Club held its annual paint party Oct. 3 at Saltillo First United Methodist Church. Attendees made seasonal door hangers, and proceeds benefited the Shining Stars program, which provides holiday meals and gifts to local families in need.

Nita Atkins, Angell Berry, Katrina Hooper and LoWanda Berry

Cindy Riley, Julie Fulton, Ellen Harrison and Melanie McCarter

Micki and Avery Kate Lindsey

Shari and Taryn Lieb

Tracey Marshall and Lesley Stanford

Suzanne Bauer and Teresa Bridges

Elizabeth Deas with Mindy and Lori Johnson

DaLisa Neal, Kelli Smith and Sonya Burnett

Meredith Harris, Hannah Bascomb and Jolie Reid

Virginia Skinner, Diane Payne and Kristi Wren

Jessi Woodard, Terri Reno and Catina Newman

Paige Shurden and Linda Williams

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2015

photographed by Lisa Roberts

Jan Patterson, Kim Nicholson and Blair Guin

Come do your Christmas shopping with us!

Christmas Open House November 22nd Noon-4pm

109 North Spring St. Tupelo, MS 662-687-2551

Cindy Parker, Anna Patterson, Stacey Greenwood and Sheli Patterson

Shannon Fryery and Elizabeth Mansfield

[

BA R N YA R D BOUTIQUE

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662.231.7412 341 County Road 521 Saltillo, MS November 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

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photographed by Chasity Dees

events Walk to End Alzheimer’s View more event photos @ invitationtupelo.com.

Hundreds of walkers gathered in Ballard Park Oct. 3 for the Northeast Mississippi Walk to End Alzheimer’s. The event raised more than $37,000, which will go toward furthering the care, support and research efforts of the Alzheimer’s Association.

Marty Stephens, John Belk and Chase Burchfield

Front: Sonya Bennett, Wanda Ruff, Annula Marshall and Undra Boggan; Middle: Jennifer Bagwell, Ace and Nicole McCracken, Wanda Frazier, Nicole Gates and Ashley Coleman; Back: Melissa Alexander, Katie Antle, Tarlyn Gates, Rhonda Roby and Tommie Ivy III

Amy Trapp and Marla Harshberger

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Jill Schubert and Marisa Boatner

INVITATION TUPELO | November 2015

Lindsey Brown and Lindsey McAlister

Madi and Haylee Collums with Ethan Carnes, Ty Collums and Jace

Brian Prestidge and Lori Pirtle with J.W.

Faith Crawford and Brayley Sellier

Dr. Phillip Graham, Optometrist

SHANNON & GRAHAM EYE CLINIC

Bill Seawright, Optician Melanie Sellers, Tech

662.489.4741 14 East Marion Street Pontotoc, MS 38863

November 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

63

events Miranda Lambert Concert View more event photos @ invitationtupelo.com.

Country music star Miranda Lambert brought her Roadside Bars and Pink Guitars Tour to Tupelo’s BancorpSouth Arena Oct. 9. Special guests included RaeLynn, Clare Dunn and Courtney Cole.

Tasha Dozier with Hayes and Claude Dossett and Chris and Lacee Hall

Kirsten Sousan, Brandy Davis, Blair Cullum and Olivia Craig

Mary Elizabeth and Caroline Hatcher

Tammy Witcher and Cindy Stewart

Margaret Parker and Tawana Buse

Amanda Slone and Shena Brewer

Carly Chittom, Paige Wood and Katie Stevens

Taylor Burns, Carly Bean and Kayla Duncan

Rachael Potts, Amy Trapp, Virginia Metts and Danielle DelGrande

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2015

Brittany Robison, Carlee Morgan, Leigh Ann McCord, Camae Vail and Carlie Clark

photographed by Lisa Roberts

Mary Beth Mayer and Alice Scruggs

Miranda Lambert

Shayna Ruth and Alexandra Burnham November 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

65

out and about

CONTINUED ON PAGE 68

COMMUNITIES FORWARD FESTIVAL

Nellie Davis and Bart Aguirre

Gwendolyn Ellis, Clara Martin-Donald and Zanthia Slaughter

NMMC WELLNESS CENTER’S 26TH ANNIVERSARY

HONEY, I DUNKED THE BOSS

J.R. Mooneyham, Kelli Dufford, Philip Raper, Ken Rodgers, Julie Fulton, Melanie McCarter, Casey Thompson, Tim Terry Miller, Terry Rutledge and Edwin Crenshaw Heim, Joe Gasaway and Zack Orsborn

LaKisha Beene and Boogy Man Jones

Clay Cruse, Tom Garrett, David Brevard and John Bryson

GUMTREE MUSEUM OF ART ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP LUNCHEON

Sally Elliott, Nancy Diffee, Kristi Lake, Wanda Todd, Jean Laney and Betty Harris

Whitney Pegues-Beck, Parker Spees, Kelly Kenney and Allie West

TUPELO UNITED U10 GIRLS NAMED CHAMPIONS

THOMAS STREET APOTHECARY GRAND OPENING

Front: Katelyn Fulgham, Mallory McMillin, Addy Stanford, Hannah, Richard, Jamie, Stephen, Sarah, Natalie, and Jasmine Steinman, Taylor Riley, Lilly Donnell and Coach Maggie Gunnells Kirk Donnell; Back: Coach Luke Stanford

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2015

Sue Washburn, Jeannie Massey and Belle Naugher

Martha Randolph and Pat Hall

FARM TO SCHOOL AT PARKWAY ELEMENTARY

Ella Zuniga, Monica Vazquez, Tylar Setsar, Tyler Doss and Joshua Gladney

Jordan Metcalf, Jessica Ni, Yuuna Yanagihara, Donna Loden, Hermaiony Chavez and Malak Ryann DOGTROT ROCKABILLY FESTIVAL

Raffieal Wallace, Jackie M. Taylor and Lindsay Lacks

Alexis and Jackie Armstrong November 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

67

out and about

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 66

TUPELO HIGH SCHOOL HOMECOMING PARADE

Alex and Summer Park with James Moscato and Hannah Hudson

Sarah Philpot, Lauren Byrd, E.C. Cockrell, Carrol Trent Imbler and Wynn Howell

CUT-A-THON AT A.J.’S SALON

CHILDREN’S DENTAL CLINIC FALL FESTIVAL

April Jones, Heather Kuykendall, Cathy Miller, Kathy Kuykendall, Amber Gordon, Georgia Lindsay, Hailey Jones and Emily Floyd

Anna Fleming Quaka with Belle, Sarah and Abby Spires

Brookleigh Armstrong and Jaden Anne Burt

Devan Richardson, Jase Pee, Hunter Petre and Rebecca Goysich

MISS BLACK MISSISSIPPI SCHOLARSHIP PAGEANT

Crystal James, Robin Jackson, Aysha Evans, Margie Areias Rayford, Jobrielle Winfrey, Chrishtain Cameron and Jacqueline Posley

Lauren Steward, Brittany Hopkins and Cherry Busby Stone

CELEBRATION OF ADOPTION

Larry Hill, Hob Bryan, David Chandler, Kent Elliott, Coy Hill and Jay Carney

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2015

Shannon Clinton, Tori Nunnelee and Clarke Wise

Miranda and Kelly Williams with Debbie Velie

18TH ANNUAL BREAST CANCER AWARENESS LUNCHEON AT FULTON’S FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH

Lisa Brown, Miranda Garrison, Jason Dickinson, Dina Johnson and Steve Gray

Colin Barnes, Donni Dubert, Christina Prestage, Keisha Davis and Jackson Kelso WOMEN’S SYMPOSIUM HOSTED BY RENASANT BANK september 2012

Valerie Boykin, Laura Gregory, Rocky Miskelly, Mary Donnelly Haskell, Regina Counce, Carrie Burns and Mieko Kikuchi

may 2013

june/july 2013

Bridal issue

Teresa Gregory, Mary Donnelly Haskell and Kay Bishop

NOVEMBER 2012

annual combined Tupelo and Oxford issue

Call Cindy Semmes, Director of Advertising, for more information at (662) 701-8070.

November 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

69

Catering Good Eats

Small and large events across North Mississippi Weddings • Rehearsal Dinners 662-534-3250 New Albany, MS

TOM’S

Automotive Service Center 317 Magazine St. Tupelo | MS

662.842.7931

toms-automotive.com Serving Tupelo since 1952

WE OFFER THE BEST! AUTO REPAIRS COLLISION air conditioning full collision service alignment free estimates brakes all insurance accepted engine suspension OPEN Monday-Friday timing belts 7:30am-5:30pm transmissions computer diagnosis Jeff B. Roberston Jr. | Owner Anthony Knight | Body Shop Manager

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2015

photographed by Chasity Dees

events Reaching Out Christian Music Fest View more event photos @ invitationtupelo.com.

Reaching Out Christian Music Fest took place Oct. 10 at Ballard Park. The free music festival featured live performances by three Christian rock bands and family-friendly activities.

Adaryn, Chasah and Aletheia Cullimore

Meadow McMillen and Jocalyn Cruz

Alex Spencer, Brent Childs and Garrett Brumley

Monica Grant and Michael Armstrong

Rachel Montgomery and Leigha Steele

Abigail Wiginton and Jessilyn Stanford

Bridgitt and Joshua Southworth

Joshua Vincent and Abby Hale

t es USA w Lo s in ce Pri

November 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2015

photographed by Chasity Dees

events Pigskins in the Park View more event photos @ invitationtupelo.com.

Ole Miss and Mississippi State football fans gathered in Fairpark Oct. 3 to tailgate and watch their teams play away games on the big screen. Both teams suffered tough losses, but Tupelo fans still had plenty to cheer about at the annual community event.

Teressa Robinson and Vanaey Garmon

Jacob Bridges, Grace Tomes and Colton Starling

Rachel Talley with Pam and Ray Smith

Jennifer Babb and Lisa Thompson

Andy and Andi Pearson

Mia Todd and Lilla Reed

Marley and Hannah Maharrey

Mandy Mitchell and Lindsey Chaney

November 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

73

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2015

photographed by Chasity Dees

events ICC Homecoming View more event photos @ invitationtupelo.com.

Itawamba Community College students and alumni celebrated homecoming Oct. 3 with events including an awards luncheon, a cookout, band performances, a pep rally and a football game against Coahoma Community College, which ICC won 49-7.

Lakyn Todd, Dee Stegall and Keysha Bradley Stephanie Hardy, Melaya Myers, Blake Guntharp and Blake Meador

Meg Higginbottom, Alicia Tubb and Brett Ashleigh Brooks

Hannah Kirksey with Jessica and Megan Hall

Karen Davis and Robert Taylor

Claire Loden and Alexis Smith

Ashton Ellis and Liza Webb

Alyssa Park, Megan Moorehead and Breauna Holley

Tyrone Vance and LouAnna Cooperwood

Anferhee Clark and Jamiya Smith

There’s No Place Like Home for the Holidays.

BancorpSouth.com/Mortgage

Donna Aycock NMLS #442673 323 N Gloster St (662) 620-4879

Leslie Pettey NMLS #442671 2541 Hwy 145 N (662) 869-7607

Mendy Ramey NMLS #86755 1851 N Gloster St (662) 407-3005

Vicki Hill NMLS #546364 323 N Gloster St (662) 538-8361

Ken Williams NMLS #91642 456 S Coley Rd (662) 231-9544

Jack Nunley NMLS #1230008 323 N Gloster St (662) 620-4883

Jimmy Ward Regional Manager NMLS #1156014 323 N Gloster St (662) 620-4875

Peggy Joyner Operations Manager NMLS #442672 323 N Gloster St (662) 620-4880

At BancorpSouth, we’ve been helping people buy and renovate their homes for almost 140 years. We offer a variety of mortgage types, and our mortgage lenders will help to ensure the process is painless. Plus, we feature an easyto-use website with an online mortgage calculator and online applications, so we know you’ll be comfortable. When you want to turn a house into your home, you need someone you can trust.

November 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

75

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2015

Lava Stone Fireplace Shop

Fireplaces • Stone • Stoves Gas Logs • Screens Outdoor Kitchens 4115 West Main, Tupelo, MS 662.844.5178

photographed by Chasity Dees

events Glow Party 2015 View more event photos @ invitationtupelo.com.

Glow Party 2015 took place Oct. 10 at BancorpSouth Conference Center. The event was hosted by Tupelo Macaroni Kid, an online events resource for local children’s activities. It featured music, glow-in-the-dark dancing, food and more.

Karma Shields, Jarmesha McKinney and Kaylin Shields

Brooke and Michelle Dains

Lili Fretwell, Braxtyn Quinn, Kenley Willoughby and Sadie Fincher

Marqeitta Johnson and Shanekia Bailey

Alyssa Hutchison and Ellie Swain

Rain Bruff and Joni Grose

Laken Hopkins and Maggie Ann McNutt

Makeyla McKinney, Cidney Crump and Makayla McKinney

Zkyra Metcalf, Kierra Green and Honesty Shaw

Kyleigh and Jacida Latsady with Autumn and Marshall Childers

November 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

77

20% OFF

a single item and not to be combined with any other offer.

Coupon valid through 12/31.

YOUR HOMETOWN FAN SHOP! 115 N. Thomas St., Suite D, Tupelo, MS 38801 (Next to Subway) 662-260-4284 • www.gamedayhqshop.com

New Fabrics Arriving Daily!

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2015

FLOORING & INTERIORS

installed floors at Salon West

2715 Hwy 145 S. Saltillo, MS 869-3545

346-A West Oxford Street Pontotoc, MS 662-489-1074

T he Red Door Monday-Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Holiday Hours Starting November 22: Monday - Friday 10 - 6 Saturday 10 - 5 • Sunday 1-5 346-A West Oxford St. Pontotoc, Ms 662-489-1074

Late Night Christmas Shopping in

New Albany November 19th December 3 . 10 . 17

Stores open to 7:00 p.m.

Holiday Open House in Downtown Pontotoc & surrounding Areas

Sunday, November 22 @ 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm Special Sales, Wonderful Decorations, and lots of Christmas Spirit

As the area’s premier events magazine, we get invited to all the best parties, fundraisers, sporting events and general good times. When you follow Invitation Tupelo on Facebook and Twitter, you’ll get updates on all the latest events and stay in the know.

Click “Like” at facebook.com/invitationtupelo Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/invtupelo November 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

79

TUPELO SPIRIT John Harris

INTERVIEWED BY Melanie Crownover | PHOTOGRAPHED BY Chasity Dees John Harris’ bubbly personality and infectious smile make standing in line more tolerable for Thomas Street post office patrons, even during the busy holiday season.

Q: Where did you get that smile?

A: I guess from my mom. She taught us that a happy face is always better than sad or mad.

Q: How did that lesson affect you?

A: Keeping positive is just part of my personality now, off the clock and on. I see someone’s face brighten up as we’re talking and that gives me a little satisfaction to know that I may have just helped their day.

Q: How do you stay positive at the busy times?

A: It is very exciting around here, in some cases hectic. We all work together to take it one piece at a time, and the employees all the way down the line are hard workers, so none of us faces it alone. That makes it easier. A happy customer is a good customer, so I try to share a smile.

Q: Do you have any gift-packing tips?

A: Make sure anything breakable is packed real well, especially glass. That protects your gift and our employees. If there’s anything liquid, secure it properly and pack it in something that could absorb it just in case. Cookies should be in a solid container that can help them make it there whole. Double-check addresses; nothing slows down a package like a missing apartment number or using “lane” instead of “circle.”

Q: When should people send holiday gifts?

A: We don’t have a set day for cutoff yet, but I would say make sure you send everything at least a week before to give it time to get there because Christmas is on a Friday this year.

Q: What’s your advice for staying happy during the hectic holiday season?

A: Come visit me over at the post office, and I’ll put the smile back on your face. I’m just like the postal service on that – I’ll deliver.

John Harris, 59, has been a Tupelo branch U.S. Postal Service employee for 32 years.

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2015

At Thanksgiving, more than ever, our thoughts turn gratefully to those who have made our progress possible. And in this spirit we say, simply but sincerely, Thank You and Best Wishes for a Happy Thanksgiving!