MARCH 2016
A HAVEN FOR HORSES CUSTOM BIRDHOUSES TENNIS FOR A CAUSE plus
TUPELO'S MUSTACHE BASH
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All Leroy Henderson needed
was a little coaching. Coach Leroy Henderson struggled with type 2 diabetes for years. Now he has help, thanks to the University of Mississippi Medical Center’s partnership in the Diabetes Telehealth Network. The program allows Coach Leroy to check in with his nurse daily, from a computer in his home. Together Coach Leroy, his nurse, and his primary doctor manage his diabetes. The first program of its kind in the nation, it holds hope for the 370,000 Mississippians with diabetes and is one of the many ways UMMC is building a healthier state. Your donation to the Manning Family Fund helps bring this level of care to more Mississippians.
Give today
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Olivia and Archie Manning with Leroy Henderson
Š 2016 UMMC
1/27/16 7:37 AM
MARCH 2016
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ON THE COVER The first foal born this year at Crane Quarter Horse Ranch in Fulton symbolizes the changing seasons and new life. photographed by Joe Worthem
IN EVERY ISSUE
FEATURES
EVENTS
34 Mustache Bash
14
Tupelo Comedy Festival
Bold facial hair, a worthy cause and plenty of sideshow antics come together to create one of the quirkiest parties of the year.
16
Kiwanis Father-Daughter Ball
18
Yocona Area Council Dinner
20
THS Theatre Anniversary
22
New Albany Snowflake Ball
24
The Premier Bridal Show
26
New Albany Charity Ball
47 For the Birds
28
Brantley Gilbert Concert
30
Red Cross An Evening of Jazz
32
Civic Ballet’s Sleeping Beauty
56
Silence Hides Violence 5K
58
Jim and Jill Kelly Fundraiser
60
Delta Waterfowl Banquet
62
Junior Auxiliary Charity Ball
64
Beyond the Cover Pageant
66
NEWMS Chocolate Festival
40 Spring Awakening Spring means business at a Fulton ranch that specializes in breeding, training and selling American quarter horses.
4
Letter From the Publisher
6
What’s Happening
9
Community Corner
10
In Season: Girl Scout Cookies
70
Out and About
Earnest Streit’s handmade birdhouses don’t just provide practical shelters for birds; they give them creative and unique places to live.
76
Tupelo Spirit: Andi White
50 Serving Up Love Local supporters show nothing but love for Corinth’s annual Candy Classic Memorial tennis tournament.
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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2016
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March 2016 | INVITATION TUPELO
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THE PUBLISHER
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40
S
ince my 4-year-old daughter learned to walk, she’s been interested in flowers. In recent years, that interest has grown into affection for other plants, birds and nature in general. One blustery day in late January, she sweetly asked, “Mommy, where do the birds eat and sleep when it’s this cold?” A few hours later, off we went to buy a tiny birdhouse that she painted and filled with food. Just recently she asked me, “When will spring get here, Mommy?” I smiled and explained that spring would arrive little by little, day by day. It wouldn’t happen all at once. It wasn’t instant like the arrival of Christmas morning or her birthday. It would take time, but it certainly would be here before too long. I think Earnest Streit, 83, of Saltillo has stolen my 4-year-old daughter’s heart, and she doesn’t even know it. After a lifetime of woodworking on projects both large and small, Streit is making homes for birds. Some are even based upon fairy tales, which we read to Mary Katherine regularly. He calls these precious little homes for some of the tiniest creatures
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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2016
we encounter each day his “pet” projects. For Streit, it’s a colorful and meaningful labor of creativity and love. You can read about his creations on page 47. Just as spring takes time to unfold, so too did the story of Chip and Jennifer Crane’s Crane Quarter Horse Ranch just outside of Fulton. The ranch, which started out as a training site for show horses two decades ago, has evolved into a breeding facility for champion bloodline American quarter horses. This spring four foals will be born on the 300-acre ranch, and their stud (who lives in Texas) will sire more than two dozen foals around the country. Whether you’re interested in birds and birdhouses, an admirer of horses and their handlers, or something in between, this month we celebrate spring, a season filled with reminders of new life for people of all ages.
RACHEL M. WEST, PUBLISHER
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publishers
Phil and Rachel West
editorial
EDITOR IN CHIEF Emily Welly CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Lena Anderson EVENTS EDITOR Mary Moreton STAFF WRITER Melanie Crownover COPY EDITOR Kate Johnson
advertising
ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS Jennifer Bolton Alise M. Emerson Leigh Lowery Lynn McElreath Stacey Raper Moni Simpson Whitney Worsham ADVERTISING DESIGNERS Becca Bailey Zach Fields
art
CREATIVE DIRECTOR Hallie Thomas STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS Lisa Roberts Joe Worthem CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Chasity Dees Whitney Worsham
production
PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Emily Suber
office
BUSINESS MANAGER Hollie Hilliard COMPTROLLER Julie Clark
IJump *N ow en ro llin g fo r g ym na st ics
Birthday Party • Events • Individual Play K ids Night Out • 662-871-4021
DISTRIBUTION Donald Courtney Brian Hilliard MAIN OFFICE 662-234-4008 ADVERTISING INFORMATION ads@invitationtupelo.com
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, email Mary at mary.invitation@gmail.com.
PLEASE RECYCLE THIS MAGAZINE
March 2016 | INVITATION TUPELO
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MARCH 15-APRIL 15 NOW THROUGH
3/26
Salute to Farming
Tupelo Automobile Museum exhibit features agricultural vehicles from a bygone era. Open Monday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m., and Sunday, noon-4:30 p.m. 662-842-4242
4/2 Tupelo Autism Run 3/18-20
Tupelo BBQ Duel’s Double Duel
The Autism Center marks World Autism Day with a 5K run and awareness walk and festival in Ballard Park. Race begins at 9 a.m. Entry $20 in advance, $30 day of race. autismcenternms.com
4/2
Teams compete in a barbecue contest to benefit the Link Centre. Competitions take place on both Saturday and Sunday. tupelobbqduel.com
Black Rodeo The third annual Black Rodeo rides into Tupelo. Tickets $22.50 in advance; $26.50 at the door. BancorpSouth Arena. bcsarena.com
3/19
Mustache Bash
4/2
A 1970s-themed party benefits the Autism Center and Tupelo Community Theatre. 7:30 p.m., J.J. Rogers Building. Buy tickets, $20, at the door or in advance at Café 212. Read more about it on page 34.
Sleeping Beauty Tupelo Ballet Company dancers and guest artists, accompanied by the North Mississippi Symphony Orchestra, present Sleeping Beauty. 2 p.m., Tupelo High School Performing Arts Center. For tickets, call 662-844-1928.
3/26
Sacred Choral Traditions North Mississippi Symphony Orchestra features soprano Nancy Maria Balach and the combined choirs of First Presbyterian Church and First United Methodist Church. Tickets $25 in advance, $30 at the door, $10 students. 7:30 p.m., Tupelo High School Performing Arts Center. nmsymphony.com
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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2016
4/2
Corinth Green Market The eighth annual season of Corinth’s monthly Green Market kicks off. Open 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at the historic Corinth Depot. corinthgreenmarket.net
4/5-15
Student Exhibit at GumTree GumTree Museum of Art hosts an exhibit featuring artwork by Tupelo Public School District students, grades K-12. An opening reception will be held at the museum April 7. gumtreemuseum.com
4/9
New Albany Home and Garden Show The Union County Master Gardeners’ eighth annual home and garden show features “Garden Mama” Nellie Neal; horticulturist Gail Barton; author Laurie Parker; floral designers Bill and Sissy French; and more, including music, crafts, antique tractors and vendors. 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m., historic downtown New Albany. unioncountymastergardeners.com
4/9
Children’s Fishing Rodeo Tupelo’s Department of Parks and Recreation invites children ages 3-15 to a family-friendly fishing competition in Veterans Park. Registration at 8 a.m., fishing from 9 a.m. to noon. The event is free and includes lunch from Bishop’s BBQ Grill for participants.
4/9
Boerner Be Wild Take on an obstacle course or kids fun run at this health and wellness festival. 8 a.m., Ballard Park. Registration $25 in advance; $35 on site. Proceeds fund grants to educate youth on the importance of physical activity. To learn more, call 662-377-4139 or 662-377-5437.
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4/12
Blue Mountain College Scholarship Gala NFL quarterback and ESPN analyst Tim Tebow is the keynote speaker at the inaugural Blue Mountain College Scholarship Gala. 7:30 p.m., BancorpSouth Arena. Tickets $50. March 2016 | INVITATION TUPELO
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As We See It
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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2016
WOMEN’S FIRST RESOURCE CENTER
Helping women is the top priority at the nonprofit organization Sherry Abraham and Judy Hester founded 16 years ago. Both breast cancer survivors, the women met through a support group Abraham was facilitating and decided more women like them needed access to support. So they formed a 501(c)(3) and got their first grant, and Women’s First Resource Center was born. Its mission is to provide physical and emotional support to women through caring, awareness and education. The organization doesn’t provide medical care but offers help in other ways. Monthly support groups for different types of cancer and fibromyalgia are offered; Caregiving on Call takes support to people who can’t come to the center; and A New Day reaches out to widows. Additionally, 35 volunteers go to Bridgepoint oncology clinic daily to visit with patients receiving chemotherapy. They also give away free wigs, prostheses, bras and more. “If we can’t help somebody, we can usually find an agency that can,” Abraham said. Founders Abraham and Hester run the organization without pay, instead relying on grant money, fundraisers, donations and help from 70 volunteers. Their year-round fundraiser is selling gift baskets designed with themes such as babies, men, couples and health and beauty. The baskets sell for $25 or less. Donation needs for the center include paper towels, heavy paper plates, bottled water and certain soft drinks. Monetary donations are also welcome. To seek help, volunteer, make a donation or purchase a gift basket, call 662-842-5752 or visit 215 N. Gloster St., Suite D.
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GIRL SCOUT COOKIES written by Melanie Crownover photographed by Joe Worthem
Tagalong Milkshake ½ box Tagalongs cookies 6 cups vanilla ice cream 1 cup milk Whipped cream Mix all ingredients except the whipped cream in a blender. Pour into a glass, and top with whipped cream.
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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2016
M
arch is a collaboration of great things, from the official start of spring to college basketball madness. But for those with a sweet tooth, March is known as the month of Girl Scout cookies. Lee County has nearly 350 girls in green who are in the midst of their 99th annual cookie blitz until March 20. Last year, the regional troop sold 1.3 million boxes in northeast Mississippi and western Tennessee. Profits help the girls fund service projects in their areas, and it’s one fundraiser that leaves the public pining. “We have people ask us all the time why we don’t sell them all year, but I think that’s part of the draw,” said Jenny Jones, senior director of community engagement at Girl Scouts Heart of the South. “Lots of them buy extra to freeze so they’ll have them all year.” Jones says although the cookies are delicious on their own, an array of recipes incorporate them into decadent desserts. “Our office is full of people with lots of easy versions of desserts using crushed up cookies, like banana pudding with Trefoils and brownies with Thin Mints when you have plenty,” she said. “Our biggest crowd-pleaser is either the Savannah Smiles Lemon Chiffon Pie or this Tagalong milkshake.”
Savannah Smiles Lemon Chiffon Pie FILLING: 1 package lemon gelatin 1 cup boiling water 1 package cream cheese (8 ounces) ¼ cup sugar 1 container whipped topping CRUST: 1 box Savannah Smiles lemon cookies, crumbled ¼ cup melted butter Mix gelatin and hot water, and refrigerate until it starts to set. Meanwhile, prepare crust. Reserve 1/3 cup of cookie crumbs. Combine the rest of the crumbs with the butter, press into the bottom of a pie tin, and set aside. Blend cream cheese and sugar in a bowl. Add gelatin to the mixture while whipping. Fold in half of the whipped topping. Spread filling into the crust, and top with the rest of the whipped topping. Refrigerate several hours, until set. Top with reserved cookie crumbs before serving. March 2016 | INVITATION TUPELO
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announcements
Look forward to Invitation Oxford and Invitation Tupelo’s combined Bridal
issue featuring gorgeous brides, dapper grooms and festive celebrations.
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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2016
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View more photos at invitationtupelo.com.
TUPELO COMEDY FESTIVAL West of Shake Rag presented the Tupelo Comedy Festival Feb. 12 at the Link Centre. Performers from six comedy improv troupes from around the Southeast participated in the event. photographed by Chasity Dees
Victoria Waller and Trevor Hart
Casey Dillard and Glenn Payne
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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2016
Emily Weathers and Kristyn Martz
James and Heather Bozek
Carlton Wall and Marley Maharrey
Natalie Perry and Aron George
Morganna Ochoa, Venessa Sanchez and Steve Benelli
Madeleine and Ryan Pressley
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View more photos at invitationtupelo.com.
CORINTH KIWANIS FATHER-DAUGHTER BALL The Kiwanis Club of Corinth held its fifth annual Father-Daughter Ball Feb. 13 at Crossroads Arena. The theme was Masquerade in the Moonlight, and the event included food and dancing. photographed by Whitney Worsham
Laura Jane and Kasey McKee
Zerrick, Zydia and Kalaeyah Payne
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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2016
Kate Walker and Robert Williams
Lucy and Rob Laher
Blake Brady and Kayla Prather
Stan and Lilly Kate Morelock
Chris and Sarah Katherine Curtis
Johnny and Audree Butler
names names Marley names Dixonnames and Shawn namesKnight names names
Hattie Mae and Hank Butler
Hallie and Jesse Mann
names namesChip names andnames Hanleynames Woodnames names
Mae Monaghan, Sheridan Shipp, Grace Monaghan and Cate Rivers
Greg and Ansley Tyson
Jourdana Jourdan and Natalie Harvell
Spence and Molly Grace Spencer
Abby Prestage, Darby Arnold and Shelby Phillips
Kalei and Charles Johnson
Amelia Sexton, Loxley Ethridge and Anna Brooke Tucker
Mattie Magers and Harper Mazurkiewicz
Saili and Sloan Weeden
March 2016 | INVITATION TUPELO
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View more photos at invitationtupelo.com.
YOCONA AREA COUNCIL DINNER The Yocona Area Council of Boy Scouts of America held its annual dinner Feb. 12 at BancorpSouth Conference Center. Actor Morgan Freeman was the guest speaker and recipient of the distinguished citizen award. photographed by Lisa Roberts
Lyndsey and D.J. McClain
Jennie and Chip Crane
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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2016
Deepika and Jayant Dey
Buddy and Janna Fairley
Lisa Reed, Morgan Freeman and Jack Reed
Chan Brown, Duke Loden and Woody Watson
Andy Clausel, Matthew Callicutt and Daniel Wiseman
Brad Miller and Heywood Washburn
Melissa and Dennis Nolan
March 2016 | INVITATION TUPELO
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View more photos at invitationtupelo.com.
TUPELO HIGH SCHOOL THEATRE ANNIVERSARY Tupelo High School’s theatre department held its 30th anniversary celebration Feb. 5 in the THS Performing Arts Center. The event included performances by alumni and current students. photographed by Chasity Dees
Blake Harrell and Chael Williams
Emma Crockett and Kendashia Smith
Sanders Higgins and Tahj Harris
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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2016
Maggie Grandin and Erica Gassaway
Chera Jones and Emma Gausset
Marti Goodrich-Hill and Josh Martin
Jacob and Ashley Prince
Brad Corban and Audrea Stewart
Kenzie Dixon and Emma Witty
Jennifer Homan and Allana Austin
Philip Johnson and Connor Harper
March 2016 | INVITATION TUPELO
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View more photos at invitationtupelo.com.
NEW ALBANY SNOWFLAKE BALL The annual father-daughter Snowflake Ball was held Feb. 27 at First United Methodist Church. The event was sponsored by the Pilot Club and included dinner and dancing. photographed by Joey Brent
Callyn, Eric and Haley Richardson
Aubrey Blakemore and Shannon Johnson
Merideth and Jay Cossey
Kamille, Kwandis and Kai Beard
Jaysen and Emily Manning with Carol Riddell
Isabelle Campbell and Adalyn Aldridge
Tom and Darcy Garrett
Cassie Thompson and Macy Kirk
Erin Williams and Melissa Broom
Stephanie and Stephen Nolen
David, Camleigh and Carys Ball
Delilah and Adam Roberts and Tilayla Price
names names Ella names and Brandon names Beckworth names names names
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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2016
Michael and Camryn Rainwater
Bella and Wesley Jamison
Gary Johnson and Myaisa Bradley
Jeremy and Lexi McLarty
March 2016 | INVITATION TUPELO
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View more photos at invitationtupelo.com.
THE PREMIER BRIDAL SHOW The Premier Bridal Show was held Jan. 31 at BancorpSouth Conference Center. Various local wedding vendors displayed goods and services. photographed by Lisa Roberts
Carol Parker with Matthew and Kelly Pittman
Michelle Hood with Wendy and Hardy Smith
Staycie Hale and Haley Milne
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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2016
Dani Sanders, Courtney Holcomb and Cheryl Henning
Maggie and Natalie Gunnells
Sarita Witherspoon, Selina Harris and Pollie Floyd
Denise and Jason Brown
Kayla Dillinger, Lindsey Herring and Casey Johnson
Chanda Cossitt and Rebecca Lawrence
Matt Miller and Joanie Pettigrew
names names Bartnames Phelpsnames and Scott names Burns names names
names names Patricianames King and names Joseph names Johnson names names
Nikki Reed and Cheryl Pearson with Aaron and Elizabeth Johnson
Reagan and Sarah Hern
Walker Dossett with Meagan, Jeff and Kathleen Taylor
Tara Chappell with Anna Lauren and Jim Bain, Sallye Stewart and Ginnie White
Brandy Powers, Victoria Whittle and Amber Moyer
Mary Catherine Nash and Rae Potts-Burkhalter
Tracey and Jamie Denham with Chelsea Conlee
March 2016 | INVITATION TUPELO
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View more photos at invitationtupelo.com.
NEW ALBANY JUNIOR AUXILIARY CHARITY BALL The New Albany chapter of Junior Auxiliary hosted its Charity Ball Feb. 6 at Oaks Country Club. The winter wonderland-themed event included food, live music and a silent auction. photographed by Lisa Roberts
Mary Day and Lauren Paige Hamilton
Stephanie and Carey Beth Doyle
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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2016
Kim and Carly Hill
Mallory and Drew Horn with Michelle Hall
Drew and Mary Catherine Shands with Jamie Clayton
Katie and Jennie Davis
Marley Long, Lucy Martin and Jesslyn Brewer
Lakin Coleman, Carol Peters and Mary Beth Hardy
Emma Blakemore and Sanders Goode
March 2016 | INVITATION TUPELO
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View more photos at invitationtupelo.com.
BRANTLEY GILBERT CONCERT Country music singer Brantley Gilbert performed Feb. 27 at BancorpSouth Arena. The Black Out Tour included performances by special guests Michael Ray and Canaan Smith. photographed by Lisa Roberts
Savannah Basham and Spencer Payne
Brad and Sherry Miller with Tom Counce
Leah Williams and Jon McLemore
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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2016
Morgan Clark and Brandon Degraw
Brantley Gilbert
Reaghan Lewellen with Caitlyn and Cori Taylor
Jodi Willis and Killian Capestany
names names Cassie names Griggs names and names Rita Morris names names
Tanner Bevill, Laura Beth Blissard and Carson Robbins
Lauren Collins and Charity Aaron
Katie Kimbrell and Katie Taylor
March 2016 | INVITATION TUPELO
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View more photos at invitationtupelo.
AMERICAN RED CROSS AN EVENING OF JAZZ The ninth annual American Red Cross An Evening of Jazz was held Jan. 23 at BancorpSouth Conference Center. The event included food, a silent auction and live music by Cruise Control. photographed by Lisa Roberts
Lula Fields and Jean Guido
Camille Young with Patty, William and Emily Tucker
Henry Cobb and Judith Ward
Shawn Brevard, Gary Sparkman and David Brevard
Tommie Lee and Barbara Ivy
Mark and Vicki Jarrett
Reeta and Tony Roper
Kathy Allison with Clifford and Janel Smith
Ted and Lynn Moll
Christiana and Ivy L. Williams
Roger and Kathryn Ragsdale
Juanita Floyd and Debra Carouthers
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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2016
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View more photos at invitationtupelo.com.
TUPELO CIVIC BALLET’S THE SLEEPING BEAUTY Tupelo Civic Ballet presented The Sleeping Beauty Feb. 27 at the Performing Arts Center at Tupelo High School. The production featured two guest artists, Andrew Taft and Daniel Ojeda. photographed by Chasity Dees
Andi and Brett Hildenbrand
Daphne Young and Andrew Taft
Madi and Donita Martin
Emma Reid and Maclaine Griffith
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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2016
Catherine Barkley and Riley Williams
Jarah Caroline Veltschy, Katie Bell McGraw and Ashlyn Anthony
Tianna Williams and Venisha Johnson
Savannah Clark and Camille Campbell
Shiomi Yanagihara and Scarlett Von Strahl
Lillian and Karen Angle
names names Rina names and names Averi Coleman names names names
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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2016
PHOTOGRAPHED BY TODD SHERMAN
written by Melanie Crownover
Bold facial hair, a worthy cause and plenty of sideshow antics come together to create one of the quirkiest parties of the year. When it comes to their annual party in support of the Autism Center, the Mustache Bash crew does not discriminate on the basis of excessive facial hair. Rather, the event’s seven-member, self-proclaimed Party Development Foundation (PDF) has expanded their mission to promote charity and cheer among all sectors of the immaculately groomed since they threw their first bash in 2012 for the bravely mustachioed. Last year, they incorporated the bearded community. This year, they celebrate the 1970s with a contest for the best Afro in what they have decided will be the final bash. The original celebration started because of a good-humored “stache-off” among friends. “A few of us grew these ridiculous mustaches and started having Mustache Mondays together at the Blue Canoe before that whole trend really took over,” said PDF member Jason Hayden. “It got so big we decided to dub March ‘Mustache Month’ for alliteration purposes, get our wives on board and throw a big party. We never thought it would go this far.” “Founding fathers” of the Mustache Bash include Jason Hayden, Todd Sherman and Russell Stafford. What began as an informal gathering has grown into an anticipated community event that raises money for the Autism Center and other local organizations. March 2016 | INVITATION TUPELO
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The creative posters promoting the Mustache Bash reflect the event’s themes, which have included circus and Western. This year’s March 19 bash is all about the 1970s and is a “fund razor” for the Autism Center as well as Tupelo Community Theatre.
Nonetheless, five years later, another bash is on the calendar for March 19. The decision to make it the last bash wasn’t easy. “For five years we’ve grown this and worked to make it the best it can be, but it’s really just gotten too big for us,” said committee member Amanda Hayden. “So now we really want to go out with a bang.” The inaugural event was held at GumTree Museum of Art to raise money for the Autism Center, a local educational and behavioral services organization chosen because several members have had family receive services from the facility. Naturally grown whiskers are not necessary for admission; attendees just need a little imagination.
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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2016
“What still kills me is that the women are always the ones with the best facial hair because they get to design their own,” Amanda said. “We’ve seen glitter ones, rainbow ones, even one made from real hair last year, and you see these friends and even couples getting pretty competitive with each other over whose mustache is best.” The Haydens and the rest of the committee judge their hairy guests, handing out a list of awards, including “The Creeper” for creepiest stache and “Legacy Stache” to the person who’s had theirs longest. Over the years, Alex Knight has brought home several prestigious awards. He has won “Most Badass Stache,” and last year he won “The Artist” for
March 2016 | INVITATION TUPELO
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PHOTOGRAPHED BY LISA ROBERTS AND CHASITY DEES
Clockwise from top left, Cameron Moore, Keon Poindexter and John Mitchell at the inaugural 2012 bash; organizers Jason and Amanda Hayden at last year’s circus-themed event; and Carol and Michael Upton at the 2014 party. Last year the event moved to a bigger location at the J.J. Rogers Building, where it will take place again on March 19.
best-styled mustache. He also happens to be married to the reigning “Miss Stache.” The pair keep their facial hair plans secret from each other each year until the event, but they agree that charity is a good reason to go overboard. Her pink furry stick-on and his perfectly waxed handlebar mustache won them each trophies at the 2015 bash. For Knight’s first bash, he grew out his mustache so long that he could touch it to his eye when he made two big loops up his cheek with it for the party. It was so heavy he had to keep it in place with Elmer’s glue because wax couldn’t hold it. That year, his glue creation won him the top “Masterstache” prize. “You have to commit when it’s for a cause,” he said. “This is something we always look forward to because [it gets] better every year, kind of like our mustaches.” The community has pitched in to support and promote the charitable event. One year, Ironclad Tattoo in Saltillo offered mustache-
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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2016
themed tattoos at its shop and then gave the profits to the bash. They’ve also donated artwork and gift certificates to support it. Last year, barbers from The Barber’s Chair in Baldwyn were on hand to give straight-razor shaves, and they plan to attend again this year. Outdoing last year’s soiree should give the PDF a run for its money. The move to a larger space at the J.J. Rogers Building in 2015 meant more room for creativity. Fire-breathers, fire dancers, jugglers: Their highest-grossing party yet seemingly had it all. Organizers are excited to surprise guests at the upcoming ’70s-themed bash with some new antics. “When we start planning, we come up with the most outrageous and ridiculous ideas we can think of on our theme. Then we narrow it down by cutting out the things that might land us in jail,” Jason said. “Anything else is always an option. We’re just happy our craziness can help do something good.” Last year, the bash raised $5,200 to
assist the 500 people who received services at the Autism Center. Some drive hours to get help in Tupelo because the nearest facilities like this one are in Memphis, Tennessee, or Birmingham, Alabama. The center serves toddleraged children through 18-year-olds and currently has almost 100 people on its waiting list. “Our main need is scholarship money to reduce costs for everyone,” Autism Center business director Brittany Cuevas said. “That’s where donations from events like this go, so they’ve been able to help a lot of people get services here they might not have been able to afford otherwise. They’ve helped cover what insurance may not.” Tickets, posters and T-shirts for the 2016 bash are available at Café 212. In addition to the Autism Center, this year’s event will also benefit Tupelo Community Theatre. Each $20 ticket provides entry for one attendee, plus food and a drink. For more information, search “Tupelo Mustache Bash” on Facebook.
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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2016
Spring means business at a Fulton ranch that specializes in breeding, training and selling champion American quarter horses. written by Melanie Crownover photographed by Joe Worthem
Life is good for the foals born at Crane Quarter Horse Ranch just outside of Fulton. Earlier this year, a 2-month-old bay-colored colt whinnied and pranced around his mother in the field, the white markings on his legs and forehead glowing in the sunshine. He may not have a name yet, but this particular foal has it made. His home includes an indoor/outdoor barn with a 10-stall stable, 300 acres of space to romp around and a trainer devoted to waiting on him. As the first foal of 2016, it’s all his – to share, of course, with the 20 adult horses living alongside him. He doesn’t suspect that any day now, his playground will also become home to some new friends closer to his age. “This place is like a delivery room when March 2016 | INVITATION TUPELO
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Foals are born in the spring at Crane Quarter Horse Ranch in Fulton, where the Crane family specializes in breeding American quarter horses that they sell to buyers from around the country. Above, this year’s first foal frolics on the pastoral 300-acre ranch alongside one of the adult horses that lives on the property.
spring comes,” stable manager Joe Taylor said. “We had three born the same day last year – one first thing in the morning, and then two more by lunch. We have three about to land (be born) right now.” The ranch, which started out as a training site for show horses more than two decades ago, now functions primarily as a breeding facility for champion bloodline American quarter horses. “When we moved to the country because of my husband Chip’s asthma, we told our two boys they could have horses,” co-owner Jennifer Crane said. “I don’t know what we were thinking because neither of us grew up riding, but I promised God if He would keep my boys from getting hurt while learning I would take care of the horses. I still am.” The Cranes went to the horse auction in Jackson in 1996 and acquired five horses. Since
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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2016
they didn’t yet have a trailer or fence, they paid someone to transport them to a nearby fenced field and care for them until their own property was ready. The first-time buyers didn’t know until after the sale that four of the horses weren’t broken (or trained), three had been bred, and the one that was supposedly saddle-trained stood up or bolted when mounted. They needed someone with experience to help. So they hired Taylor, a horse show veteran, to train the horses and teach the boys to ride. The whole family picked up the new hobby so well that they soon bought a camper and began showing their horses all over the country, adding to their stable as their skill sets grew. Chip placed 10th in 1998 at the All American Quarter Horse Congress, considered the Super Bowl of the equine world. The boys and Taylor held the record in 2010 for a clean
sweep of all divisions with the same horse three consecutive years in the nation’s second-largest competition, the Dixie National in Jackson. Jennifer also made the finals at the Dixie National in 2000, and she became confident enough to ride with her young daughter in front of her on the saddle at home. “When the boys grew up and moved away, we started focusing on breeding,” Taylor said. “They kind of outgrew me. Thank goodness the horses didn’t.” Prizes from show days still line the barn walls where mares now bear the progeny of the Cranes’ third stud, LL Cool Bay, the son of Western Pleasure division legend A Good Machine. LL resides in Texas, so he and the mares keep their long-distance relationships fruitful through artificial insemination. As part of their business, the Cranes also pair LL Cool Bay with other mares living around the United
More than 20 adult horses live at the ranch. Many of their progeny have gone on to succeed in the competitive show circuit, and several of them are show champions themselves. A slow, easy gait and adaptable demeanor also make the American quarter horse an ideal companion.
Crane Quarter Horse Ranch started out 20 years ago as a training site for show horses. With help from stable manager Joe Taylor, ranch owners Chip and Jennifer Crane and their children all became accomplished riders. Now they focus on breeding the horses and training their foals for the show arena.
States, and he will sire more than two dozen foals this year alone. Not to be outdone by their male counterpart’s impressive bloodline, many of the females at the ranch are show champions themselves. Some have also had embryo transfers, allowing them to carry foals for active show horses. Multiple horses born at the ranch have placed in the top five or top 10 at the Congress. Getting the foals to that level begins with attentive care from the beginning of the 11-month gestation, according to Taylor. Expectant mares are pampered with extra food, attention and veterinary visits throughout their pregnancies. Just before each foal’s arrival, the staff
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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2016
separates the mother from the rest of the horses. The move to a pasture closer to the house provides a more private spot to prepare for birth and allows Jennifer to keep a watchful eye from the window, one of her favorite jobs. Although some foals stay at the ranch for years, customers may buy them as soon as they are weaned, at around 4 months old. Those who remain start training with Taylor after their joints finally set enough to be ridden when they turn 2. Then their educational course load centers on developing the slow, easy gait and adaptable demeanor coded into the foals’ blood. Not only do those qualities make the breed great work
companions, but perfecting them also prepares the horses to show competitively with their new owners. The Crane family and the ranch’s small crew are master teachers. After all, they’ve made a life turning out champions in the show arena and in the barn. “You never think something fun like that can turn into a business on you, but it did for us,” Jennifer said. “We had a lot of good years riding because of that crazy promise to the kids, but it kept them grounded and brought us together as a family. Now we get to see that happen for the people who come to us for a horse.”
“You never think something fun like that can turn into a business on you, but it did for us. We had a lot of good years riding because of that crazy promise to the kids, but it kept them grounded and brought us together as a family. Now we get to see that happen for the people who come to us for a horse.� -Jennifer Crane
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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2016
Earnest Streit’s handmade birdhouses don’t just provide practical shelters for birds; they give them creative and unique places to live. written by Melanie Crownover
Earnest Streit of Saltillo says he’s not much of a birdman, but the colorful creations in his backyard workshop tell another story. The 83-year-old’s handmade birdhouses line shelves that stretch from ceiling to floor. “I used to build much larger things,” he said. “As my shops got smaller and I got older, these became my pet projects.” Streit’s relationship with the table saw and sander started in ninth-grade shop class, where he built himself a desk as his first project. The workshop became his after-work sanctuary as he got older. His projects grew in scope from furniture and grandfather clocks to inlaid music boxes and the baptismal font at his church. Some of his handiwork even sold, and interest in buying his work spread by word of mouth. When his attention turned to birdhouses, he started with a simple rectangular sparrow house. He stuck to basic, high-quality materials, using cedar and cypress instead of plywood for durability and finishing them with either wood sealer or oil paint to preserve the structures longer. Once he learned the intricacies of birdhouse building, he added a clean-out feature to each house for easy removal of debris when nesting season ends. Each house is different, but the most common option allows the floor to flip open like a door for easy cleaning.
photographed by Lisa Roberts
Earnest Streit’s handcrafted birdhouses range from simple to elaborate, including the 18-room mansion pictured on the previous page and the birdie bed-and-breakfast pictured above. The homes aren’t all for birds. At right, colorful boxes beckon to butterflies, and simple wooden boxes are made for bats.
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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2016
“As my shops got smaller and I got older, these became my pet projects.” -Earnest Streit
Streit’s birdhouses come in all shapes and sizes now, and there are few repeats in design. The grandeur of the lodgings increased with his confidence in each build. There’s a “birdie bed-and-breakfast” fit with a house and feeder together, separated by a planter for flowers. One house looks like the Big Bad Wolf ’s head huffing and puffing – his mouth the opening to the shelter. Another is a puzzle box layout bound together by the fit of the pieces instead of screws, nails or glue. The largest is a three-story mansion with 18 rooms, a metal roof and a rock chimney. Although the handmade sign on his front fence proclaims this a place to buy birdhouses, Streit offers accommodations for other animals as well. Besides birdhouses with small entrances for sparrows and larger ones for bluebirds, he also makes layered structures for bats and tall, narrow homes with thin slots for butterflies. Feeders for all of the above are mixed in with his other creations. Streit still heads out to his hobby haven in two-hour stints to make his houses whenever he can, and his wife, Doris, says that one perk of giving her woodworking spouse the space to do what he loves is seeing what creation he comes up with next. “He’s given us so many things with his gift we never could have had otherwise,” she said, “but one of the best is when we can both be still enough to sit out back together now and watch the birds feeding and coming in and out of the wonderful houses he’s built.”
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Local supporters show nothing but love for Corinth’s annual Candy Classic Memorial tennis tournament. written by Melanie Crownover
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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2016
The Candy Classic Memorial is a United States Tennis Association-sanctioned event that has been a Corinth tradition since 1964, held in honor of Candy Hammond, a local girl who died of leukemia at age 10. Every year, around 150 tennis players and officials come to raise money for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in her name. Billy Gip Clark of Columbus is one of them. No stranger to the competitive tennis circuit, Clark is chairman of the Mississippi Tennis Association Officials Committee and officiates around 10 tournaments per season, including one in Jackson to rank USTA players. Even for this longtime tennis instructor, the Candy Classic stands out on his regular tournament schedule. He has officiated there for the past two years and says his third appearance will be extra special. “I always looked forward to refereeing there because of what I knew they were trying to accomplish, but it’s closer to home this year,” March 2016 | INVITATION TUPELO
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Above, some of last year’s winners, Karen Rickman and Teresa Pittman from Corinth and Gina True and Kristy Pelt from Germantown, Tennessee, pose for a picture. But the real winner is St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, which received $12,000 after last year’s tournament. At right, Cara Breedlove from Booneville plays in the 10 and under division.
he said. “A student who’s been with me the past several months had just come back from treatment [at St. Jude] when she moved back. Just knowing what they did to help her get back on the court – and only in a couple of years – makes you realize how much we need to do things like this to support them.” Coordinators divide the tournament into a three-day adult division event and a two-day juniors competition. Beginner to experienced players can participate in singles and doubles matches for men, women or mixed teams. Local area USTA players and others from as far away as Illinois and Georgia attend. In 2014, the name of the Corinth Candy Classic was changed to the Candy Classic
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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2016
Memorial, and a new child was chosen to be honored by the fundraiser. Booneville native Amber Peeks, who requested that her tumor be donated to St. Jude before her death, lost her six-year-long fight with brain cancer at age 13. “She had wanted to leave a legacy and help other people, and she was always so worried about her friends at St. Jude,” her mother Angie Worley said. “I knew immediately when they asked that this would be something she would have loved to be a part of, something that would really bring attention to childhood cancer.” The change into a memorial tournament not only gave officials the option to add more local honorees later on but also gave the fund-
raiser a boost in participation. “We went from usually donating about $7,500 each year before to almost $9,000 that first year,” assistant director Becky Nelms said. “Last year, we thought setting a $10,000 goal was big, but we ended up raising $12,000.” The funding is set up so that all sponsor donations go directly to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Expenses for the tournament are covered by entry fees, and local businesses also donate food, drinks, printing, advertising, tents and more to help keep costs low. Supporters like Candy’s siblings, who still give even though they live out of state, can write their checks directly to St. Jude when they donate. That transparency and the heart of its cause
are the staying powers behind the competition, according to Nelms. “Benefit tennis tournaments usually last only a few years. That says a lot about what our communities thought of these two girls,” she said. “Our communities were devastated to lose them, but now we get to honor them every year to help other children who are still fighting their fight and the place that’s helping them fight it.” The 2016 Candy Classic Memorial adult tournament takes place the weekend of May 20-22. Juniors play May 24-25. To register or get more information, visit tennislink.usta .com, search “Candy Classic” on Facebook, or email candyclassictennis@gmail.com. March 2016 | INVITATION TUPELO
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SILENCE HIDES VIOLENCE 5K RACE The fifth annual Silence Hides Violence 5K race was held Feb. 20 at Ballard Park. The event was hosted by S.A.F.E. Inc., an organization that brings awareness to domestic and dating violence. photographed by Lisa Roberts
Brandi Meeks and Peggy Houpt
Maggie Waldo and Jalyn Merrell
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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2016
Jennifer Porter and Kristie Holleman
Bruce Dodson and Katarsha White
Sonya Hamilton, Yvonne Page, Shirley Lawrence and Gail Austin
Shelly Johnson and Dena Waldo
Nanette Johnson, April Wilson, Anna Rosenbaum, Farren Young and Charlie Rosenbaum
Kim Gassaway, Tiffany Scales and Aretha Morris
Amelia Parkes and Pam Montgomery
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JIM AND JILL KELLY TAILGATE PARTY Parkgate Pregnancy Clinic held its annual fundraiser at The Orchard Church Feb. 8, where NFL Hall of Fame quarterback Jim Kelly and his wife, Jill, spoke. photographed by Lisa Roberts
Jane Riley and Susan May
Kevin, Kamel and Melony Armstrong
June and JB Darnell
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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2016
Rick and Kathy Beasley
Janice Taylor, Carrie Haadsma and Tori Nunnley
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ALCORN COUNTY DELTA WATERFOWL BANQUET The Alcorn County chapter of Delta Waterfowl held a banquet Feb. 18 at the Franklin Courtyard in Corinth. The event also featured dinner, an auction and entertainment. photographed by Whitney Worsham
Hunter and Alex McSwain
Justin Dees and Amber Gray with Sheree and Weston Moss
Bryan Huggins and John Tomlinson
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Jay and Henry Huggins
Tyler Pittman, Michael Doran, Jeremy Glidewell, Scotty Dunnam, Cooper Huff and Ben Butler
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JUNIOR AUXILIARY OF TUPELO CHARITY BALL The 53rd annual Charity Ball, hosted by Tupelo Junior Auxiliary, was held Feb. 5 at BancorpSouth Arena. The blues-themed event included food, live entertainment and a presentation of living ads. photographed by Lisa Roberts
Todd and Shelly Powell
Beth Brinkley, Morgan Dennis and Tatum Weaver
Meri Sykes, Julia Gaines and Lee Herman
Caroline Burleson and Hanna Price
Anne McKenzie Smith and Sophia Petruskevich
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Carmen Raines, Emily Spradling and Paul Raines
Catherine Adams and Lexi Ballard
Jacarah Martin, Adrian Hood and Alyssa Agnew
Gabby Ungo, Jenny Smith and Susannah Davis
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BEYOND THE COVER PAGEANT The Beyond the Cover pageant for people with developmental disabilities was held Feb. 20 at Tupelo High School Performing Arts Center. It is a yearly project of the SPOT Junior Civitan Club. photographed by Lisa Roberts
Gavin, Danielle and Gabrielle Ruff
Angela Smith and Meghan Hopper
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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2016
Kaylee Grace Sullivan and Shelli Wood
Jennifer and Sarah Grace Poole
Charisse Campbell, Weston Johnson and Katelyn Hooker
Bethany and Michaela Compton
Nora, Macy, Emmy and Phoebe Dean with Bailie Edgeworth
Jamie and Lane Bryan
Emma and Jinnie Coleman
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SWEET EXPECTATIONS CHOCOLATE FESTIVAL New Expectations for Women in Mississippi hosted a chocolate festival Feb. 6 at MidTown Pointe plaza. Proceeds from the event were used to support the Fairy Godmothers Project. photographed by Lisa Roberts
Aubrey Haynes and Troy Peck
Anna Robinson and Graham Hardison
Joan and Sidney Lansdale
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OUT AND ABOUT CONTINUED ON PAGE 74
WESTSIDE FAMILY MEDICAL CLINIC OPEN HOUSE
TUPELO STATE OF THE CITY ADDRESS
Camille Sloan, Jack Reed, Scott Reed and Catherine Mize
Charlie Hardin, Chris Hogan and Mike Ray
MISS TUPELO PAGEANT
Asya Branch and Kirklyn Finney
Pamela Hampton, Debra Hill and Martha Matthews
BELK ENGAGEMENT PARTY
Madelyn McGregor and Rachel Shumaker
PLANET FITNESS GRAND OPENING
Tiffany Phillips and Chelsea Canup
Pollie Floyd, Jasmine Howard and Selina Harris
GUMTREE MORTGAGE OPEN HOUSE
Myah and Austin Dodich with Steve Grogen and Danni Allen
Rachael Potts, Ashley Brock, Christina Brown and Heather Overstreet
PIED PIPER PLAYERS PRESENTS EGAD, THE WOMAN IN WHITE
Kate Burleson, Eleanor Perkins and Morgan Bailey
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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2016
John Doorenbos, Mae Barnes and Landon Craig
Ruthann Morgan, Madison Nanney and Regan Plunkett
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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2016
1733 A McCullough Blvd Tupelo, MS 38801 662-321-1332 www.lcatupelo.com
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OUT AND ABOUT CONTINUED FROM PAGE 71
TUPELO FURNITURE MARKET SPRING GIFT AND HOME ACCESSORIES SHOW
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Michelle and Brittani Gordon with Sherry and Jimmy Garrett
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Meghan Vaughn, Susan Lott, Brittany Hopkins and Hope Campbell
Stephanie Gant, Trinity Pearce and Cheryl Brehm
Misty Wright, Jada Mitchell, Keri McMillin and Tiffany Purnell
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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2016
Shirley Wood and Ethel Scurlock
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ANDI WHITE
interviewed by Melanie Crownover photographed by Joe Worthem
The Color Vibe 5K has become a charitable powerhouse since it started in Utah in 2012. More than 100 color runs were held nationally last year, including the Tupelo race that raised $5,000 for Family Resource Center. The fun, noncompetitive event draws a variety of participants. Mortgage loan officer Andi White joined around 5,000 others on the course last year. Q: Are you a regular runner? A: Not at all. That’s what led me to the color run. Some friends from work and I wanted to do the GumTree 10K, and this was the fun part of our training. Q: Fun at a race? A: Exactly. I went in serious to test myself and didn’t realize how fun it could be. There was a lot more to it than just the run. The DJ’s music and all the color and excitement of so many people get you pumped up. Q: Were you surprised at the turnout? A: It was a lot more people than I expected, and it wasn’t all pros. You had kids, parents with strollers, even people with their dogs – runners and walkers. There’s no timed finish, so it’s really low stress. My group was all new to running. We were still able to stick together through the whole run and every color station. Q: What did you look like after the race? A: I looked like a dysfunctional Easter egg down to my shoes after they threw [the colored powder] all on. When we went out to eat right after, there was no question where we’d been. Q: Are you going back this year? A: I haven’t run since we did the GumTree together and marked that off my to-do list. I may have to see if they want to get back out there again though. It was a lot of fun. This year’s Color Vibe 5K takes place April 16 at Fairpark and benefits Family Resource Center. To register, visit thecolorvibe.com/tupelo.php.
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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2016