Invitation Tupelo | May 2015 H&G by Invitation Magazines

MAY 2015

If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re tired of spending the night on the couch, spend a night with us. The NMMC Sleep Disorders Center has helped people suffering from sleep apnea, excessive snoring and other sleep-related conditions for more than 25 years. With a team of experienced board-certified specialists, including four pulmonologists and three neurologists, our new facility in Tupelo is the most modern and comfortable in the region with 14 private beds for overnight observations. For an appointment, call 1-800-THE DESK (1-800-843-3375) or talk to your doctor.

Visit nmhs.net/sleep_center.php and follow us on Twitter @NMMC_news.

1845 S. Green St., Tupelo, Miss. NMMCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sleep Physicians: William R. Edmondson, M.D., Mark H. Fletcher, M.D., Justin C. Graff, M.D., Samuel D. Newell, M.D., Lyndon H. Perkins, M.D., David A. Reed, D.O., Jaime R. Ungo, M.D.

May 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

INVITATION TUPELO | May 2015

May 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

Jason Warren, Broker/Owner Robin Walton, Broker/Associate Neel Dean, Broker/Associate

MLS# 15-252 $144,500

MLS# 15-90 $79,900

MLS# 14-3407 $399,900

MLS# 15-146 $299,500

MLS# 14-3217 $299,900

MLS# 15-650 $210,000

1737 CEDARWOOD DR. BELDEN 3 Bedrooms; 2 Bathrooms

3552 FAIR OAKS DR. BELDEN 3 Bedrooms; 2 Bathrooms

4543 LAKEWOOD LN. BELDEN 3 Bedrooms; 2.5 Bathrooms

4710 LAKEWAY DR. BELDEN 3 Bedrooms; 3 Bathrroms

4539 MEADOW CR. BELDEN 3 Bedrooms; 2.5 Bathrooms

616 NORTH MADISON ST. TUPELO 3 Bedrooms; 2 Bathrooms

MLS# 14-3223 $329,000

MLS# 15-1084 $245,000

MLS# 14-3332 $439,500

MLS# 15-582 $259,900

MLS# 14-3255 $129,900

MLS# 15-1255 $135,000

4746 MEADOW LN. BELDEN 4 Bedrooms; 3 Bathrooms

4595 PINE CONE LN. BELDEN 5 Bedrooms; 3.5 Bathrooms

2608 FOX RUN LN. TUPELO 4 Bedrooms; 3 Bathrooms

134 COLT LN. GUNTOWN 3 Bedrooms; 2 Bathrooms

2601 BAY CIRCLE TUPELO 3 Bedrooms; 2 Bathrooms

MLS# 15-672 $109,900

MLS# 15-1202 $95,000

MLS# 15-293 $235,000

MLS# 15-288 $239,900

1116 BIENVILLE ST. TUPELO 3 Bedrooms; 2 Bathrooms

2342 BARNES CROSSING RD. SALTILLO 4 Bedrooms; 3 Bathrooms

109 BENTGRASS CR. SALTILLO 4 Bedrooms; 2 Bathrooms

MLS# 15-489 $100,000

MLS# 14-3251 $249,999

MLS# 15-994 $210,000

103 WILLOW CREEK DR. SALTILLO 3 Bedrooms; 2 Bathrooms

145 ACADIAN CR. TUPELO 4 Bedrooms; 2.5 Bathrooms

2402 COUNTRY CLUB RD. TUPELO 4 Bedrooms; 3 Bathrooms

4526 RIDGEMOOR BELDEN 4 Bedrooms; 3.5 Bathrooms

MLS# 15-828 $449,900

MLS# 15-430 $325,000

151 PATTON LN. GUNTOWN 5 Bedrooms; 4 Bathrooms

259 CROSSRIDGE CR. MOOREVILLE 4 Bedrooms; 4.5 Bathrooms

MLS# 15-745 $410,000

MLS# 15-1213 $239,900

4611 PINE CONE LN. BELDEN 4 Bedrooms; 4.5 Bathrooms

87 VALLEY VISTA DR. TUPELO 4 Bedrooms; 3 Bathrroms

1233 WINDWOOD CV. TUPELO 2 Bedrooms; 2 Bathrooms

MLS# 15-814 $879,000 1536 COLUMBINE DR. TUPELO 5 Bedrooms; 8 Bathrooms

Same Team, New Location 4 INVITATION TUPELO | May 2015

307 WEST MAIN STREET TUPELO | MS | 38804

MLS# 14-3153 $105,000 908 BEECHNUT TUPELO 3 Bedrooms; 2 Bathrooms

MLS# 14-3586 $239,900 1209 CLAYTON AVE. TUPELO 4 Bedrooms; 2 Bathrooms

$99,900

MLS# 14-3288 $299,900

MLS# 14-3539 $179,900

MLS# 14-3287 $619,500

1154 THOMAS ST. TUPELO 2 Bedrooms; 2 Bathrooms

1952 BORDEAUX LN. TUPELO 4 Bedrooms; 3.5 Bathrooms

972 COUNTY ROAD 931 TUPELO 3 Bedrooms; 2 Bathrooms

5362 CHESTERVILLE RD. TUPELO 6 Bedrooms; 4.5 Bathrooms

MLS# 14-3311 $125,000

MLS# 14-3062 $425,000

MLS# 15-668 $299,900

1701 CLAYTON AVE. TUPELO 3 Bedrooms; 1.5 Bathrooms

3173 NORTH HILL DR. TUPELO 4 Bedrooms; 4 Bathrooms

MLS# 15-1271

MLS# 14-3450 $199,900

MLS# 15-1253

38 CLARK BLVD. TUPELO 3 Bedrooms; 2.5 Bathrooms

125 AZALEA TUPELO 4 Bedrooms; 3 Bathrooms

MLS# 15-104 $325,000

MLS# 15-1199 $259,900

$145,000

1200 SPRINGDALE DR. TUPELO 4 Bedrooms; 3 Bathrooms

MLS# 15-974 $315,000 120 HIGH POINT DR. TUPELO 4 Bedrooms; 4 Bathrooms

MLS# 14-3432 $375,000

MLS# 15-338 $1,125,000

425 HIGHWAY 6 EAST NETTLETON 3 Bedrooms; 3.5 Bathrooms

972 DEBEAU ST. TUPELO 4 Bedrooms; 4 Bathrooms

MLS# 15-695 $159,900

MLS# 15-688 $175,000

410 MAGAZINE ST. TUPELO 4 Bedrooms; 2 Bathrooms

508 WESSON PARK RD. SALTILLO 3 Bedroom; 2 Bathrooms

2002 HUMMINGBIRD LN. TUPELO 4 Bedrooms; 2 Bathrooms

MLS# 14-3136 $450,000

MLS# 15-610 $139,900

MLS# 15-589 $195,000

MLS# 15-462 $210,000 917 LYNN CR. TUPELO 3 Bedrooms; 3 Bathrooms

MLS# 14-3457 $190,000 1272 ELVIS PRESLEY DR. TUPELO 3 Bedrooms; 2 Bathrooms

MLS# 15-978 $125,000

1433 LAKESHIRE DR. TUPELO 3 Bedrooms; 3 Bathrooms

4214 RIDGEMONT DRIVE BELDEN 4 Bedrooms; 3 Bathrooms

1546 LARKSPUR TUPELO 4 Bedrooms; 4 Bathrooms

407 MAGNOLIA DR. TUPELO 3 Bedrooms; 2 Bathrooms

1813 SUMMERLAKE DR. TUPELO 3 Bedrooms; 2 Bathrooms

MLS# 14-3427 $175,000

MLS# 14-3214 $550,000

MLS# 14-3134 $189,900

MLS# 15-823 $369,900

MLS# 15-1075 $380,000

MLS# 14-3585 $989,000

720 NORTH MADISON ST. TUPELO 3 Bedrooms; 2 Bathrooms

611 NORTH THOMAS ST. TUPELO 5 Bedrooms; 4.5 Bathrooms

518 MAGNOLIA TUPELO 3 Bedrooms; 3 Bathrooms

129 PIEDMONT TUPELO 4 Bedrooms; 3 Bathrooms

2566 PRIMROSE TUPELO 4 Bedrooms; 3 Bathrooms

3070 ORCHID CR. TUPELO 5 Bedrooms; 4.5 Bathrooms

MLS# 14-3376 $525,000

MLS# 14-3649 $225,000

MLS# 15-64 $284,900

MLS# 15-1203 $110,000

MLS# 15-523 $139,900

1935 NORTH PARC TUPELO 5 Bedrooms; 4.5 Bathrooms

68 VALLEY VISTA DR. TUPELO 4 Bedrooms; 3 Bathrooms

2224 SOUTH CLA-WOOD PL. TUPELO 4 Bedrooms; 3.5 Bathrooms

2620 PEMBERTON TUPELO 3 Bedrooms; 2 Bathrooms

1900 SWALLOW LN. TUPELO 4 Bedrooms; 3 Bathrooms

662.842.2710

MLS #14-3314 $199,900 1956 INTERNATIONAL DR. TUPELO Commercial Property

JasonWarrenTupelo.com5 May 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

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Jason Warren, Broker/Owner Robin Walton, Broker/Associate Neel Dean, Broker/Associate

65 MLS# 15-692 $109,900

662-842-2710

329 BLUEBIRD LANE TUPELO 3 Bedrooms; 2 Bathrooms

JasonWarrenTupelo.com JWT Realty, Inc.

MLS# 15-787 $125,000

MLS# 15-186 $118,000

792 COUNTY ROAD 521 SALTILLO 3 Bedrooms; 2 Bathrooms

800 EAST BAY CR. TUPELO 3 Bedrooms; 2 Bathrooms

MLS# 15-421 $159,900 1502 VALLEY ROAD TUPELO 3 Bedrooms; 2 Bathrooms

MLS# 14-3207 $150,000 2116 REAGAN DR. TUPELO 3 Bedrooms; 2 Bathrooms

MLS# 15-584 $139,900

MLS# 15-729 $280,000

MLS# 15-776 $179,900

1723 CEDARWOOD CV. BELDEN 3 Bedrooms; 2 Bathrooms

1004 FAWN ST. TUPELO 4 Bedrooms; 2 Bathrooms

1709 VALLEY VIEW DR. TUPELO 4 Bedrooms; 3 Bathrooms

MLS# 15-520 $259,900

MLS# 14-3324 $410,000

MLS# 15-1121 $129,900

MLS# 15-803 $225,000

MLS# 15-1093 $169,500

MLS# 15-914 $99,000

4434 RIDGEWAY DR. BELDEN 4 Bedrooms; 3.5 Bathrooms

2597 ST. ANDREWS BELDEN 4 Bedrooms; 3.5 Bathrooms

1700 FOREST HILL BELDEN 3 Bedrooms; 2 Bathrooms

4749 MEADOW LANE DR. BELDEN 3 Bedrooms; 3 Bathrooms

113 WESTBRIER SALTILLO 3 Bedrooms; 2 Bathrooms

502 SOUTH GLOSTER ST. TUPELO Commercial Property

28 MLS# 15-936 $325,000 127 AUTUMN HILLS DR. TUPELO 4 Bedrooms; 3 Bathrooms

14 MLS# 15-1094 $180,000 712 MAYNARD DR. TUPELO 5 Bedrooms; 4 Bathrooms

64 MLS# 15-570 $679,000 634 WEST MAIN ST. TUPELO

Same Team, New Location 6

INVITATION TUPELO | May 2015

MLS# 15-807 $350,000

MLS# 14-3017 $299,000

MLS# 15-988 $199,900

713 HILLSHIRE PL. TUPELO 5 Bedrooms; 4 Bathrooms

103 CORI CV. SALTILLO 4 Bedrooms; 3.5 Bathrooms

1754 SUMMERLAKE DR. TUPELO 3 Bedrooms; 2 Bathrooms

307 WEST MAIN STREET TUPELO | MS | 38804

662.842.2710

Like us on Facebook!

JasonWarrenTupelo.com

May 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

SOLD

WeWe openopen the finest the finest doors in town doors in town We open the doors in tow

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Jenny Decker 662-871-7653

Sara Mills

this house is iehtake fhakpoqwh kjfh ;aksjchliaueylfka. kjkahkjheakajeclkja;lksjelkfja 104 Poplar Springs,l Tupelo 15-667

Sara Mills

Michelle McAuley Sara Mills 662-401-0015 this house

is iehtake fhakpoqwh kjfh ;aksjchliaueylfka. kjkahkjheakajeclkja;lksjelkfja l

2745 Lakeshire Dr., Tupelo

3 yo custom home located on 3 acres with its own waterfall in gated community. Gourmet kitchen with viking gas range, copper farm sink, solid surface counter tops, Pierce cabinets, open to great room with stone Fireplace with gas logs. 6 bedrooms, 6.5 Bathroms home, study with bath (could be bedroom), with dressing area, spa style shower, soaking tub. Bottom floor thisMaster housesuite is iehtake fhakpoqwh kjfh ;aksjchliaueylfka. living area with kitchen opens to outside cooking area. Seller is Ms licensed realtor.

Sara Mills

15-1240

Gorgeous one owner home situated on 3.4 acres. This home features a large eat in kitchen this house is ieh great for entertaining, large formal dining room, and a sun room that overlooks the beautifully landscaped backyard. This home also features two bonus rooms, three car garage, kjkahkjheakajec two fireplaces, and storage galore. Must see this kjfh home;aksjchliaueylfka. to appreciate! $484,500 this house is iehtake fhakpoqwh Sara Mills kjkahkjheakajeclkja;lksjelkfja l

kjkahkjheakajeclkja;lksjelkfja l

this house is iehtake fhakpoqwh kjfh ;aksjchliaueylfka. Sara Mills kjkahkjheakajeclkja;lksjelkfja l

this house is iehtake fhakpoqwh kjfh ;aksjchliauey Sara Mills kjkahkjheakajeclkja;lksjelkfja l

Chanda Cossitt 662-871-7222

this house is iehtake fhakpoqwh kjfh ;aksjchliaueylfka. kjkahkjheakajeclkja;lksjelkfja l

Brenda Spencer 662-231-8909

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Sara Mills

1026 Fawn Dr, Tupelo

15-724

Sara Mills

1970 Forest Park, Tupelo

This wonderful home is nuzzled right in the center of Belledeer neighborhood. It has all it’s original character but has been totally remodeled You will love cooking in the updated kitchen then relaxing in the new master tub. Must see to appreciate every detail of this 4 bedroom 3 bath home. $349,900

this house is iehtake fhakpoqwh kjfh ;aksjchliaueylfka. kjkahkjheakajeclkja;lksjelkfja l

thisSara house is iehtake fhakpoqwh kjfh ;aksjchliaueylfka. Mills kjkahkjheakajeclkja;lksjelkfja l

Sue Golmon 662-346-1388

35 Clark Blvd, Tupelo

13-2757

SOLD

this house is iehtake fhakpoqwh kjfh ;aksjchliauey Sara Mills kjkahkjheakajeclkja;lksjelkfja l

this house is iehtake fhakpoqwh kjfh ;aksjchliaueylfka. kjkahkjheakajeclkja;lksjelkfja l

Sara Mills You must experience this beautiful home in the heart of the Fairpark District. Open living room w/gas logs, high ceilings, wonderful crown molding, open dining, gourmet style kitchen with Pierce cabinets and stainless appliances with eat-at island, butler’s pantry, laundry w/ built-ins, central vacuum system, bonus room, and great storage. $349,900

14-3618

Beautiful traditional home with heart pine floors, kitchen with granite countertop, 3 FP’s, Sara Millsmaster suite & bath, great lot with trees, large keeping room off kitchen with FP, wonderful deck/patio, approximately 790 sq ft basement not included in the total sq ft. $679,900

this house is iehtake fhakpoqwh kjfh ;aksjchliaueylfka. kjkahkjheakajeclkja;lksjelkfja l

Megan Robinson 662-322-7132

Sara Mills

301 North Ridge Dr., Saltillo 14-1948

this house is ieh

kjkahkjheakajec Jenny Decker 662-871-7653

210 East M

Sara Mills Kevin Knight 662-401-2913

Beautiful one owner Custom Built home on approximately 2 acre wooded waterfront lot with 6 Bedrooms, 4.5 Bathrooms, media room, open floor plan, hardwood, pool, pool house, 5 car garage. this house is iehtake fhakpoqwh kjfh ;aksjchliaue this house is iehtake fhakpoqwh kjfh ;aksjchliaueylfka. this house is iehtake fhakpoqwh kjfh ;aksjchliaueylfka. this house is iehtake fhakpoqwh kjfh ;aksjchliaueylfka. kjkahkjheakajeclkja;lksjelkfja l kjkahkjheakajeclkja;lksjelkfja l kjkahkjheakajeclkja;lksjelkfja l kjkahkjheakajeclkja;lksjelkfja l

Jenny Decker 662-871-7653

Michelle McAuley 662-401-0015

Sara Mills

finest wn

Sara Mills

3085 Lotus Cv., Tupelo

Sara Mills

15-1034

3835 Old Town Circle, Tupelo

14-2987

French country home situated on a 2 acre water front lot in Springlake. 5 BedLocated on approximately 3 tree covered acres in North Tupelo. This 6 Bedrooms, htake fhakpoqwhBeautiful kjfh ;aksjchliaueylfka. library andisoffice/bonus room, this house iehtake fhakpoqwh kjfh ;aksjchliaueylfka. 6 Bathrooms home has feel of a resort with indoor saltwater granite pool, Subzero refrigerator/ clkja;lksjelkfja lrooms, 5.5 baths, 4 fireplaces (1 outside), screened-in porch, wine cellar, open great room and kitchen. A kjkahkjheakajeclkja;lksjelkfja must see! $875,000 Subzero freezer, commercial range, open floor plan. Home remodeled with new flooring, master l

this house is iehtake fhakpoqwh kjfh ;aksjchliaueylfka. kjkahkjheakajeclkja;lksjelkfja l

Sara Mills

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Sara Mills

4643 Cypress Ln, Belden

15-511

Located on approximately 1.47 acre lot with magnificent landscaping, within walking distance to country club. This home has wonderful indoor and outdoor living spaces with covered pool, approximately 2,200 sq ft covered outdoor area, inside great room with beautiful stone fireplace, wood & brick floors, kitchen w/sub zero ref, warming drawer, custom wood cabinets, Sara Mills thisbreakfast houseroom, is iehtake fhakpoqwh kjfhbathrooms, ;aksjchliaueylfka. master bedroom with his & hers all on 1 level. $494,000 Sara Mills

SOLD

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Sara Mills

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Jenny Decker 662-871-7653

this house is iehtake fhakpoqwh kjfh ;aksjchliaueylfka. kjkahkjheakajeclkja;lksjelkfja l

Mills kjfh ;aksjchliaueylfka. this house is iehtake Sara fhakpoqwh kjkahkjheakajeclkja;lksjelkfja l

Sara Mills 1368 Charleston Gardens Dr., Tupelo 15-97 Custom Built Home in beautiful Charleston Gardens, great family neighborhood, Viking appliances, 2 dishwashers, Pierce cabinets, custom molding, 10ft plus ceilings, 8ft doors, outdoor kitchen with living space, with 4 bedrooms on the main level. Also includes an office, this houseand is bonus iehtake kjfh ;aksjchliaueylfka. playroom, room.fhakpoqwh Schonbek chandelier in dining room and House Beautiful custom madel curtains. $679,000 kjkahkjheakajeclkja;lksjelkfja

Sara Mills

Chanda Cossitt this house is iehtake fhakpoqwh kjfh ;aksjchliaueylfka. 662-871-7222 kjkahkjheakajeclkja;lksjelkfja l

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bath, counter tops, custom drapes, paint colors and lighting in 2005-2006.

Spectacular views from everywhere! $799,000 this house is iehtake fhakpoqwh kjfh ;aksjchliaueylfka. kjkahkjheakajeclkja;lksjelkfja l

this house is iehtake fhakpoqwh kjfh ;aksjchliaueylfka. kjkahkjheakajeclkja;lksjelkfja l Brenda Spencer 662-231-8909

this house is iehtake fhakpoqwh kjfh ;aksjchliaueylfka. Jenny Decker 662-871-7653 kjkahkjheakajeclkja;lksjelkfja l

Sara Mills

Sara Mills Monte Smith 662-871-2833

Sara Mills

1526 Larkspur, Tupelo 14-3063

Located on cul-de-sac in desirable Springlake subdivision. 1 story home has 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths with spacious master bedroom and salon style master bath, this house is iehtake kjfh ;aksjchliaueylfka. kitchen with eat-at bar andfhakpoqwh keeping Sararoom Millswith fireplace, Great room with tall ceilings, kjkahkjheakajeclkja;lksjelkfja l view of back yard. $389,000 wood floors, and beautiful

SOLD

104 Lakehill Dr., Tupelo 14-2044 Sara Mills Sara Mills BETTER THAN NEW, this beautiful French style 5 bedrooms, 5.5 bathrooms home with 4,390 sq. ft. offers custom drapes, new landscaping, wood floors, 2 fireplaces, granite this house fhakpoqwh kjfh patio/porches ;aksjchliaueylfka. counter tops,isaiehtake study, playroom, and 2 covered all on 3.72 acres. kjkahkjheakajeclkja;lksjelkfja l a must see! This home is truly

TUPELO | OXFORD this house is iehtake fhakpoqwh kjfh ;aksjchliaueylfka.

this house is iehtake fhakpoqwh kjfh ;aksjchliaueylfka. kjkahkjheakajeclkja;lksjelkfja l

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kjkahkjheakajeclkja;lksjelkfja l 662-842-3844 tmhomes.com

Main St., Tupelo Tommy Morgan, Broker/Owner 2092 Old Taylor Rd., Oxford Jessica Harris, Managing Broker

eylfka.

Sue Golmon 662-346-1388

Sara Mills Sara Mills

107 Annalise Cr., Saltillo 15-157

Large 3447 sq.ft. brick home with triple garage situated on a beautifully landscaped 1.8 acre lot. Hashouse 4 bedrooms, 4 baths; fhakpoqwh split floor plan; spacious kitchen with lots of cabinets and counter this is iehtake kjfh ;aksjchliaueylfka. this house is iehtake fhakpoqwh kjfh ;aksjchliaueylfka. space. Formal dining room opens to living room with fireplace; large covered back porch kjkahkjheakajeclkja;lksjelkfja l kjkahkjheakajeclkja;lksjelkfja l accented with custom built pergola; Home Warranty provided. $334,500

Sara Mills

TUPELO | OXFORD TUPELO | OXFORD

662-842-3844 662-842-3844 tmhomes.com tmhomes.com

MainTommy St., Tupelo Morgan, Broker/Owner 2092 Old Taylor Rd., Oxford Jessica Harris, Managing Broker 210 East East Main Main210 St.,East Tupelo Morgan,Tommy Broker/Owner 2092 Old Taylor Rd., Oxford Jessica Harris, Managing Broker 210 St., Tupelo

IN THIS ISSUE MAY 2015

MAY 2015

COVER PHOTOGRAPHED BY JOE WORTHEM

DEPARTMENTS

FEATURES 40 A Bountiful Harvest

60 Lakeside Gathering Place

An experiment in growing apples has resulted in one of the largest orchards in the state.

Entertaining family and friends comes easy at this lakefront Country Club home.

48 Dynamic Duo

69 The Dirt on Composting

A modern home complete with hidden passageways is fitting for this father-daughter pair.

A master gardener shares tips on making compost for a healthy and fertile garden.

55 Rose Crusade

74 A Tupelo Original

Rose growers are on a mission to prove growing beautiful roses doesn’t have to be difficult.

One of Tupelo’s oldest homes has been renovated to recapture its original charm.

INVITATION TUPELO | May 2015

12 14 16 18 92 96

Letter From the Publisher What’s Happening Community Corner In Season: Basil Out and About Tupelo Spirit: Reginald Rose

90 EVENTS 24 26 28 30 32 34 36 38 78 80 82 84 86 88 90

Easter Egg Hunt Stop the Hurt Conference Fultonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Unveiling Gala A Family Affair Aberdeen Pilgrimage Red Rasberry Awards Dinner Color Vibe 5K Tupelo Film Festival Amory Railroad Festival Wine Downtown Pontotoc Art Gala County Line Music Festival Noleput Ron White Show Dancing with the King

Paul B. Farabaugh, M.D. Jonathan R. Kalish, M.D J. Timothy Posey, M.D.

C. Stephen Farmer II, M.D. Wm. Hughes Milam, M.D. Kristopher W. Whitehead, M.D.

May 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

the publisher

LETTER FROM

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, Sheena Hagemann, Leigh Lowery, Lynn McElreath, Mary Moreton, Moni Simpson DESIGNERS Becca Bailey, Zach Fields, Courtney Sims

ust after Thanksgiving, as I backed out of my driveway, my 3-year-old daughter began crying loudly from the backseat. I stopped, thinking she was hurt. I asked her what was wrong, and she pointed out the car window. “What is it, sweetheart?” I asked. “Mommy, the flowers,” she said, sobbing. The first frost had turned our beautiful, purple hydrangeas brown overnight. We began a lesson about seasons. This month, it’s finally spring, much to my daughter’s delight. It’s time for fragrant flowers, fresh vegetables and vibrant outdoor colors. Whether you are planting a garden to grow your own vegetables or flowers or are interested

in home design and renovations, there’s something for everyone in this issue. It’s one of our favorites to create. Our staff works more than a year in advance on this magazine, which features some of Tupelo’s most beautiful homes and experienced gardeners. We also share some seasonal recipes, including one of my favorites, a fresh pesto that’s sure to please any crowd. We are also celebrating a milestone with this issue, which marks the fifth anniversary of Invitation Tupelo. We’re excited to bring you our 50th issue, which celebrates spring and all things new: new growth, new homes and much more. We are honored to be a part of the Tupelo community during all seasons, especially spring.

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Caitlin Adams, Kimme Hargrove, Sonia Thompson CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS & ARTISTS Chasity Dees, Andrew Stanford OFFICE MANAGER Hollie Hilliard 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

CORRECTION In the April story Symbols of Hope, we wrote about artist Leslie Davis Ridgeway, who began painting after her father, Thomas “Lynn” Davis, died in a tornado that occurred in 2011, not 2013. Invitation Tupelo regrets the error.

INVITATION TUPELO | May 2015

PLEASE RECYCLE THIS MAGAZINE

May 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

what’s happening May 15-June 15

A sampling of important, fun and interesting events in our area. For more events, visit invitationtupelo.com.

GEORGE WARDLAW DAY

FESTIVALS AND SPECIAL EVENTS

BENEFITS May 15 Feast for the Farmers Support the local farmers market and its vendors as the 2015 season gets underway with a farm-to-table fundraiser dinner. $25. 7 p.m., 415 South Spring St. tupelomainstreet.com

May 15-16 Tupelo Hog Roast The annual Tupelo Hog Roast raises money for a variety of local charities. 5-11 p.m. Friday and 11 a.m.11 p.m. Saturday. VFW, 1748 Mitchell Road. 662-213-4606

May 29-30 Lee County Relay for Life Cancer survivors and their friends and families will take part in this annual overnight community fundraising walk that benefits the American Cancer Society. The event begins at 6 p.m. May 29 at Fairpark. relayforlife.org/leems

June 13 Music, Monet and Margaritas Tupelo Community Theatre’s Lyric Krewe presents its12th annual Music, Monet and Margaritas fundraiser street festival. 7:30 p.m., 201 North Broadway, in front of the Lyric Theatre. 662-844-1935, tct.ms

INVITATION TUPELO | May 2015

May 16

June 4-7

Tupelo Farmers’ Depot

Tupelo Elvis Festival

The Tupelo Farmers’ Market opens the season as the newly rebranded Tupelo Farmers’ Depot. New hours are 4-7 p.m. Tuesdays; 6 a.m.-noon Thursdays and Saturdays, through the end of October. 415 South Spring St. tupelomainstreet.com

The annual four-day festival features music from local, regional and national music artists, plus a Sunday gospel concert and Elvis tribute artist contest. Other festivities include a carnival, pet parade, beauty pageant, 5K run and more. tupeloelvisfestival.com

May 26

June 6

George Wardlaw Day

Corinth Green Market

George Wardlaw, A Life in Art: Works From 1954-2014, highlights the prolific artistic career of Wardlaw, a Mississippi native who grew up during the Great Depression. The event includes a meet and greet with the artist and an exhibition of his original work. 5:30-8:30 p.m.; Blue August, 107 East Main St., Baldwyn, Miss.

The seventh annual season of Corinth’s monthly Green Market continues. The market is open 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at the historic Corinth Depot. corinthgreenmarket.com

May 27-31

A Tupelo Automobile Museum exhibit features truck makes and models from past decades. The museum is open 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday-Saturday; noon-4:30 p.m. Sunday. Admission $10, $5 children ages 5-12. tupeloautomuseum.com

Tupelo Summerfest Animal shows, fair rides, arts-and-crafts vendors and more are part of Tupelo Summerfest at Tupelo Furniture Market, 1879 North Coley Road. Search Tupelo Summerfest on Facebook for details.

May 28-31 Firefighters Conference Tupelo hosts the 78th annual Mississippi Fire Chiefs’ and Firefighters’ conference. BancorpSouth Conference Center. msfirechiefs.org

June 4-7 The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe Corinth Theatre-Arts stages a dramatization of the classic C.S. Lewis novel at the CT-A Playhouse. Tickets $12, $6 students. 7:30 p.m. Thursday-Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday. 662-287-2995, corinththeatrearts.com/shows.htm

June 6-27 America’s Haulers

June 12-14 Tupelo Flea Market Thousands attend Tupelo Flea Market, held the second weekend of each month at Tupelo Furniture Market Buildings I and III. Admission $1, kids under age 6 free. tupelofleamarket.net

TOURNAMENTS AND RACES May 16

Run with the Horses 5K This unique 5K race includes runners and horses with riders running side by side. 8:30 a.m., Mantachie High School. racesonline.com/events/run-with-the-horses-5k

May 16 Healthworks Tie-Dye 5K and Fun Run Family-friendly event features a 1-mile fun run and 5K race. 8:15 a.m. fun run; 8:30 a.m. 5K. Fairpark. healthworkskidsms.org

June 5-7 Fast Pitch Classic Tournament Tupelo Softball Association hosts a tournament for ages 8U-18U. $125 entry fee per team; $100 no-show fee required by May 29. Contact Alex Wilcox at Tupelo Parks and Recreation, 662-841-6440 or alex.wilcox@ tupeloms.gov. tupeloms.gov/softball

June 12-14 GumTree Classic Tournament Tupelo Softball Association hosts a tournament for menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s divisions. $225 entry fee per team. Contact Alex Wilcox at Tupelo Parks and Recreation, 662-8416440 or alex.wilcox@tupeloms.gov. tupeloms.gov/softball

May 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

Corner

COMMUNITY Blooms of Grace flower ministry is “bringing happiness and joy one bouquet at a time,” according to its founder, Tina Barber. Through the organization, she and her 9-year-old daughter Ella arrange donated flowers and deliver them to individuals in hospice care. “It is amazing what can be done with leftover flowers,” Barber said. “They bring such joy.”

HOW IT WORKS Blooms of Grace gathers leftover flowers from weddings, birthday parties and other events, and then rearranges them into bedside bouquets that are delivered to patients in hospice care. The organization currently delivers to three hospice facilities in the Tupelo area.

DONATE Blooms of Grace is a nonprofit organization that relies solely on the giving of others. All of the items used for the bouquets – flowers, vases and ribbon – are donated. To donate flowers or other items, call Tina Barber at 662-401-1751 or visit the Blooms of Grace page on Facebook.

INVITATION TUPELO | May 2015

EXCELLENCE BEYOND EXPECTATIONS

Now Offering Gunite Pools! Serving North Mississippi for all your landscape design, installation, and maintenance needs. Call Now For a Free Estimate

JASON TUBB Owner/Designer • 662-501-0181 • jason_cornerstone@yahoo.com

CONTACT THE UM-TUPELO CAMPUS AT (662) 844-5622 or email tupelo@olemiss.edu to find out more about: • Applying for admission to UM • Meeting with an academic advisor • Securing financial aid

May 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

IN SEASON Basil

WRITTEN BY Melanie Crownover PHOTOGRAPHED BY Joe Worthem

Basil Pesto 4 cups fresh basil leaves Â˝ cup toasted pine nuts (or toasted walnuts) Â˝ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese 2 large garlic cloves, minced 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil Salt and black pepper Place basil, pine nuts, cheese and garlic in a food processor, and pulse several times. Add the olive oil slowly while processor is running. Add salt and pepper to taste. Cover surface with plastic wrap, and store in the refrigerator. This pesto can be used as a quick pasta sauce, on baked potatoes, spread on crackers or bread, or even as a pizza sauce.

INVITATION TUPELO | May 2015

arol and Jim Bearden grow tomatoes, peas and okra at their Lee County home, but Carol’s specialty is herbs, which she grows in a dedicated 5-by-10-foot herb garden by their pool. “I started out with some oregano and rosemary in there 17 years ago, and those are still there,” she said. “I stick with some herbs every year, but I like to experiment with the rest. If I’m in a garden center and see a new variety, I have to bring it home and try it.” Basil is one of Carol’s mainstays. She plants four or five new starter plants after the last threat of frost has passed. The plants prefer neutral, moist soil and frequent watering once in the ground. Carol uses extended-release fertilizer when planting and adds more only if the leaves get pale. Within a month, she has fresh basil to pick. Frequently harvesting the leaves encourages growth. Rather than using pesticides, Carol keeps pests such as monarch butter fly caterpillars away by planting extra parsley and dill for them to feed on instead. The reward is a bush full of basil leaves for her to use in her favorite Caprese salad, as garnish for bruschetta or in her new favorite basil dish – these easy chickenpesto sliders. “The wonderful thing about basil is there’s so many ways you can use it,” she said. “That’s why I always have some in the garden.”

Chicken-Basil Sliders 4 cups shredded chicken (about 4 chicken breasts) 1 cup pesto (see recipe at left) ½ teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon pepper ¼ cup toasted pine nuts (or toasted walnuts) 18-20 slider buns, small dinner rolls or croissants Spinach leaves Sliced cheese of your choice For sliders, mix chicken, pesto, salt, pepper and pine nuts. Open rolls, and place spinach on bottom, chicken in the middle and cheese on top. Vary this recipe to make full-sized sandwiches on your favorite bread, served cold or as grilled panini. Also try it as a cold chicken salad served with sliced tomatoes and lettuce, or serve it hot over your favorite pasta.

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Visit one of the Mid-South’s Premier Lighting Showrooms www.magnolialighting.com

INVITATION TUPELO | May 2015

high five!

LOOKING BACK ON OUR FIRST FIVE YEARS AND 50 ISSUES To celebrate our fifth anniversary, Invitation Tupelo is catching up with some of the people featured in the magazine in 2010, our first year in print. Read more about each of these inspiring people on our website, invitationtupelo.com.

Brittany Pierce

Lundin Smith

Lee Anne Grace

Mad Dash to the Altar, June 2010

Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cover Contest, July 2010

New Person, New Life, October 2010

Holly Rogers

Louis Conley

Running for her Life, October 2010

Giving Thanks, November 2010 May 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

Join us for our Grand Opening!

A Tory Burch purse and a First 10 Early bird customers each day get $100 gift certificate

50% off

entire purchase (Excludes Betsy Pittard & Sherrod sisters)

will be given away on Saturday!

All customers can enjoy

20% off all day Friday and Saturday! (Excludes Betsy Pittard & Sherrod sisters)

Shop our fabulous Betsy Pittard trunk show

Friday, June 5th & Saturday, June 6th from 10am-5pm!

* Located inside of Belle Ame Salon • 840.5555 • 3265 McCullough Blvd., Tupelo, MS 22

INVITATION TUPELO | May 2015

Producing successful gardeners since 1953

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May 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

events Easter Egg Hunt View more event photos @ invitationtupelo.com.

Several Tupelo area churches collaborated for an Easter egg hunt, held April 4 in Ballard Park. The free annual event was open to the public and included food, games and activities for participating families.

Jenny and Elia Wright

Paris, Derell and Shauniece Howell with Addalyn Fears and Shea Russell

Karla, Ean and Juan Valentin

Brittany, Allen and A.J. Griffin

Mamie-Alston and Ami Bell

Jenna Hancock and Tatum Dabbs

Jayci and Kylee Whitt

INVITATION TUPELO | May 2015

Wesley and Elijah McDaniel

photographed by Chasity Dees

Ashley and Alika Montufar with Vanessa Romero

Isabela Henson with Adalynn, Lacey and Paisley Dillard

Megan Benavidez with Lily Jo and Cassie Cooper

Lilla, Merissa and Kinley Rambo

Denver Owens, Reagan Smith, Karsyn Owens and Hailey Birckbichler

Lissa, Elizabeth, Jawaneh and Britany Crockett

Aubrianna and Kane Bates

Charlie, Kolt and Brittany Malone

Jaden Anne Burt, Jesse Lee Lesley, Caroline Michael and Cameron Stevens

May 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

photographed by Lisa Roberts

events Stop the Hurt Conference View more event photos @ invitationtupelo.com.

The Stop the Hurt Conference was held April 7 at BancorpSouth Conference Center. Social services professionals gathered for the annual meeting to share knowledge on preventing child abuse and other violence in the home and community.

Wade Williams and Jody Hill

Onia Talton, Dierdre Peggen and Lucy Davis

Annice Simmons and Shani Fullbright

Kristen Adams, Madison Loden and Kim Benefield

Jackie Smith and Jimma Smith

Brandi Robbins, Samantha Houston and Jamie Flanagin

Janice Ladnier and Shane Robbins

Susan Gilbert and Allison Fowler

Tanya Churchill and Marie Howard

INVITATION TUPELO | May 2015

www.bcbsms.com Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Mississippi, A Mutual Insurance Company is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. 速 Registered Marks of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, an Association of Independent Blue Cross and Blue Shield Plans.

May 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

events Fultonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Unveiling Gala View more event photos @ invitationtupelo.com.

A gala was held April 17 at the Isaac Lewis Sheffield home in Fulton, Miss., to celebrate the unveiling of six new historical markers that have been placed throughout the city. Open houses and living history activities also took place in Fulton throughout the weekend.

Craig and Michelle Clouse

Martin and Leah Richardson with Randy and Sharion Aycock

Darrell Harp Sr. and Mary Ruth Harp

Margaret and Bob Bain

Kevin Knight and Lynn Blaylock

Kristi and Grant Martin

Barbara and Bill Miles with Rubye Del Hardin

Mike, Sandra, Carlee, Michael and Christi Nanney

INVITATION TUPELO | May 2015

Tab Bennett and Paige Burton

Charlie McCarthy, Susan Harp, Sharion Aycock and Darrell Harp, Jr.

Lynette Weatherford, Paul Mize and Hob Bryan

Sara Gammill, Madeline Mabus, Carol Drake and Teresa McNeece

photographed by Lisa Roberts

Leigh Anne Stockton, Nicole Johnson and Kacie Shanks

T.J. and Becky Adams

Katherine Anderson, Brother Rogers and Aileen de la Torre

Jennifer and Chip Crane with Lucia Randle May 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

photographed by Lisa Roberts

events A Family Affair View more event photos @ invitationtupelo.com.

A Family Affair was held April 14 at BancorpSouth Conference Center to celebrate the culmination of Le Bonheur Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hospitalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Miracle Maker fundraiser competition. Together, four competing families raised more than $40,000 over the eight-week campaign.

Meg, Brantley, Will Riley, Susan and Darrell Martin

Drew, Janae and Juliana Hagan

Lara Grace Fair, Sloan Wallis, Katey Kemp, Charlie Googe, Jillian McCollum and Sarah Szedikus and Stacy Turner Grace Hutchinson

Mary Grace Russell, Jocelynn Staples, Sydney Elizabeth Duggar, Mya Standifer and Mary Ashton Priest

Alan, Danette and Jonathan Becker with Ethan, Marc and Erin Lovett

Kelly Scott and Julie Ashby

Chuck, Katie and Lou Ann Kidd

Emma and Camille Mangum with Makel Hutchins

the

HOME Gallery

Custom built modular and manufactured homes. Let our family help your family build the home of your dreams. 1583 Highway 45 | Saltillo, MS | 662.869.1690

INVITATION TUPELO | May 2015

Like us on

or visit us online at www.the-home-gallery.com

Endocrine & Metabolic Disorders Institute, PLLC PLLC Jayant Dey, M.D., M.B.B.S. Nancy Hooks, NP-C Dottie Carnathan FNP-BC

910 Mary Vance Drive Tupelo, Mississippi 38801 Phone: 662.377.6275 | Fax: 662.377.6299 endocrinetupelo.com

May 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

events Aberdeen Southern Heritage Pilgrimage View more event photos @ invitationtupelo.com.

The 40th Aberdeen Southern Heritage Pilgrimage took place April 10-12 in Aberdeen, Miss. Several antebellum and Victorian homes, the historic Elkin Theatre and the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s oldest cemetery were open for touring. Visit aberdeenpilgrimage.com to learn more.

Nell Thomas, Betty Harris, Martha Harris, Jennie Little and Delores Smith

Judith Williams, Merlene Dill, Norene Culpepper, Linda Markham, Lisa Powell, Linda Worthay and Jewel Graves

Bob Seymour and Em Walters

INVITATION TUPELO | May 2015

Robyn, Kloee, Karlee, Kaleb and Kylee Capps with Shawn Kyzer and Sam Whitehead

Patsy Claxton, Sara Lepicier, Sarah Wilemon and Patricia Box

Jan Moore, Nina Jones, Arlene Langley, Mae Stanley and Doris Cantrell

Katherine Haywood-Kasparaitis and Linas Kasparaitis

Pam Edwards and Linda Dobbs

Taylor Allmond with Tom and Emily Seymer and Emily Ross Jerry Powell and Jerrick Wilson

photographed by Lisa Roberts

Serving as your deputy circuit clerk since 2001 Rachel Boone and Sabrina Brandon

On August 4th keep experience working for Lee County.

Shirley Cooper and Doris Witt

Eyecare Associates Welcomes Dr. Julie Brock O.D

Services offered: Eye Exam, Contact Lens Coach, RayBan, Vera Bradley, Marc by Marc Jacobs, Banana Republic, Costa, and more

Dwain and Eli Cantrell

2006 W. Main St. Suite 102 â&#x20AC;˘ Tupelo, MS 662.205.4654

May 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

photographed by Lisa Roberts

events Red Rasberry Humanitarian Awards Dinner View more event photos @ invitationtupelo.com.

The Red Rasberry Humanitarian Awards Dinner, named for Regional Rehab’s first president, was held April 14 at Summit Center. This year’s honoree was Randy Kelley, executive director of Three Rivers, and guest speaker was David Kellum, the “Voice of the Rebels.”

Janya Rogers, Kari Robison, Cindy Wood, Vicki Gaillard and Gretchen Brown

James Pettit and Patti Watkins

Mabel and Bill Murphree

INVITATION TUPELO | May 2015

Cliff and Carolyn Easley

Randy and Bonnie Kelley with Alva Lynne and Bob Bailey and David Kellum

Kamme Riddle and Kay Bain

Trisha Pate and Wanda Gray

Bob Spencer and Amanda Kent with Hugh and Diane Tate

Greg and Tasha Thames

Ruth McKinney, Lee Oswalt and Nancy Collins

Moms • Grads • Dads Great gift ideas for their special occasion

Chaco

Birkenstock

Ronaldo

Patagonia Duffel Bag

Vera Bradley

Yeti Hopper

Kavu Rope Bag

Autographed Books

Reed’s Gift Certificate… Always appreciated and always fits!

Historic Downtown Tupelo 662.842.6453 Mall at Barnes Crossing 662.5287 reedsms.com May 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

events Color Vibe 5K View more event photos @ invitationtupelo.com.

Participants were sprayed with color as they took on the Color Vibe 5K, a fun run through downtown Tupelo. A portion of proceeds from the April 11 event benefited Family Resource Center.

Ellie Turner and Missha Rogers

Ginger Berry, April Rogers, Angela Thompson, Monica Davenport, Mandy Neal and Heather Garner

Marie and Sidney Hurst

Ansley Caldwell, Maegan Black, Allie McFerrin and Maddie Black

Chris Rakestraw, Keith Henley, Vicki Browning and Robin Barnett

Shelbie Spain, Jaziah Gray, Kelsey Rogers and Chelsea Spain

Summer Stroup, Lauren Cole, Ashley Jones, Chelsea Wilburn, Tasha Crow and Jeannie Coffman

Carlie, Melissa and Brianna Barnes with Darbie Oaks, Blake McIntyre, and Matt and Heather Oaks

Tasha, Macee and Mattox Armstrong with Kinsley and Candace Martin

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INVITATION TUPELO | May 2015

photographed by Lisa Roberts

Brad, Braddon and Vanessa Corey

Amber Nichols and Emily Brown

Sonya Marbry, Britney Keith and Tracy Crysup

Mason, Madison and Ellen Dipietro with Jim Sanchez

Miranda Christopher, Sheri Wilkerson, Joni Watts, Haley Jones and Laci McMasters

Melissa Gilmore, Christine Winters, Vicki Holland and Krista Williamson

Kasey and Thomas Rhea

Brody Sanderson and Dana Fleming

Miles Caradine, Porter Callery, Max Griffith and Luke Radigan

Providing professional, comprehensive eye care to the people of Northeast Mississippi May 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

events Tupelo Film Festival View more event photos @ invitationtupelo.com.

The 12th annual Tupelo Film Festival took place April 16-18 at the Malco Theatre. Festivities included screenings of more than 64 independent films, workshops, a high school film competition and more. To learn more about the festival, visit tupelofilmfestival.net.

Jamie Thompson, Angel Scott, Jereth Lacoste, Paige Lee, Judith Anton, Serena Lee, Ian Lacoste, Michaela Murchison and James Bush

Brenda Scafidi, Brenda Hankins, Preston Booth, Melanie Hankins-Booth, Olen Booth, Susan Seal and Bettye George

Tamekia Tiggs, Tammy Rodgers, Nikki Powell, Roy Turner and Teri Ward

Wes Benton, Glenn Payne, Rob Underhill, Sean Johnson and Hudson Hickman

C.J. McDonald, Ashley Ehlers and MaKayla Raby

Cheyenne Higgs, Lucinda Roberts, Sierre Anton, Brooke Bourgeois, Emily Brauen and Scott Gladfelter

INVITATION TUPELO | May 2015

Braden Wilson, Isabella Kinder, Katrina Kinder and Mason Blair

Sonya Keith and Pat Rasberry

photographed by Lisa Roberts

Gena Ellis and Kat Phillips

INTRODUCING

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Kirby Matheney and Maggie Marshall

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www.BNABank.com Mae Stanley, Helen Cook and Celia Fleishhacker

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May 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

An adventurous experiment growing apple trees in Itawamba County has resulted in one of the largest orchards in Mississippi. WRITTEN BY Caitlin Adams | PHOTOGRAPHED BY Joe Worthem

INVITATION TUPELO | May 2015

May 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

ississippi may be known for its blooming magnolia trees, but there’s something else growing in Itawamba County, thanks to retired college instructor Stacy Russell. After being on his feet in a classroom for 39 years, Russell wasn’t about to kick back and relax, even though he no longer had a 9-to-5 job. “I always thought you rusted out more than you wore out,” he said. “People who stay active last longer.” With ample land and time to spare, Russell decided to try planting apple trees on his family’s 500-acre farm. More than 400 trees and 100 species later, his land is teeming with apples. Although he now has one of the largest orchards in Mississippi, looking back, Russell admits he didn’t plan for his venture to grow so fervently. “I sort of fell into it,” he said, laughing. Russell, whose father taught agriculture classes until he was 97 years old, grew up knee-deep in dirt. The apple didn’t fall far from the tree, and when it came time for planting, Russell used the method his father perfected. “My daddy just insisted that we learn,” he said.

May 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

“I’ve got a lot of friends when I make cider.” -Stacy Russell

The process, known as grafting, takes a new-growth twig and plants it into a rootstock. The final product, held together with freezer tape, is a way to grow a number of different species in one place. Once a year, Russell teams up with other Mississippi growers to spend a weekend on his land constructing new growths. It’s a tedious procedure, but it’s all part of Russell’s longterm plan for his orchard. “Five hundred apple trees might be a hobby, but there’s a little work to it too,” he said. “That work is grafting; you have to graft to get what you want.” And what Russell wants is to find an apple that successfully grows in Mississippi’s warm and humid climate. “I’m not in this to grow a perfect grocery store apple,” he said. “I don’t have them that pretty. I’m trying to grow a good apple that our ancestors grew. And it might have a brown spot on it, but it’s still very good.” Blemishes aren’t the only characteristic that makes Russell’s apples unique. He has spent the last few years driving cross-country

INVITATION TUPELO | May 2015

to bring species of apple trees from around the world to his parcel of land. His apples may not be as large and visually pleasing as imported ones, but they have histories as rich as the fruit they bear. The ‘Bean’ apple, named after the family that passed it along to Russell, came to Itawamba County from Alabama in 1880 in the back of a covered wagon. Another, a ‘Golden Lazette,’ hails from the same tree that George Washington and Thomas Jefferson had in their orchards. Russell even has ‘Roxburg’ apples, the oldest apple developed in America, dating back to 1640. But his favorite of the bunch is the ‘Captain Davis’ apple, named after a dismissed Confederate Army soldier who ate the apples and pocketed the seeds on his trek home from the Carolinas to Kosciusko, Miss. “He put the apple in his pocket, planted it, and that’s where this tree came from,” Russell said. More than 50 varieties and most of the seeds with historical significance have been purchased from North Carolina’s Cen-

tury Farm Orchards. Russell credits the owner, David Vernon, for helping him get over the learning curve when he started. Now that Russell is finished with what he calls the “hard stuff” – planting, building irrigation and collecting trees – he’s moved on to the fun part: putting the fruit to use. But don’t count on finding apple pies or tarts on his kitchen counter. Russell is using his bountiful resources to dabble in cider production. The purchase of a 200-year-old apple press spurred the idea, and Russell now collects and crushes his apples into bottles of hard apple cider. Instead of selling the product of his small operation, Russell gives it to friends and enjoys a glass for himself every now and then. A newly acquired carbonation machine has Russell experimenting with different methods and tastes, and once his cider-making process is perfected, Russell said he might entertain the idea of opening his orchard to groups for organized apple picking. But one thing is for sure: His homemade beverage isn’t going anywhere. “I’ve got a lot of friends when I make cider,” he laughed.

Charles Crayton and Mark Green, friends of Stacy Russell, work to crush apples into cider using a 200-yearold apple press. Cider making is a relatively new endeavor for Russell, but agriculture seems to be in his blood. The retiree has planted hundreds of apple trees on his familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 500-acre Itawamba County farm. As he grew the orchard, he experimented with 100 different apple varieties in search of the apple that will grow best in Mississippâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hot and humid climate.

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Mon - Fri: 10AM - 6PM Sat: 10AM - 4PM 662.365.5200

May 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

WRITTEN BY Caitlin Adams PHOTOGRAPHED BY Stephanie Rhea

A striking modern house complete with hidden rooms and secret entrances is a childhood dream come true for a father and his daughter.

INVITATION TUPELO | May 2015

ike many teenage boys, Jason Whitehead grew up enamored with James Bond movies. But for Whitehead, it wasn’t the wealthy secret agent that piqued his interests. “When you’re a boy and you watch these action movies, the bad guys always have those modern houses perched on a hillside,” Whitehead said. “I knew then that’s what I wanted.” As Whitehead grew up, he became more invested in his dream, even though modern homes were an anomaly in north Mississippi. He didn’t just want to live in a modern home; he wanted to design it. The only hitch: He lacked any formal training in home design or construction. “Nobody in my family can even swing a hammer,” he said, laughing. Determined, the University of Mississippi business school graduate bought how-to books and spent nights and weekends installing

cabinets, laying tile and building doors. What started as a hobby morphed into a full-time job, and Whitehead soon began buying and flipping houses. The venture paid off. “I figured out how to build big houses for not a lot of money,” he said. “I took all those little pieces that I learned and put them to use.” Picking up tips and tricks along the way – like an affinity for the durability of quartz countertops and a preference for fully extending drawers rather than cabinets – Whitehead got to work in his sketchbook. With only a clear concept for the exterior, he drew more than 20 floor plans before he met an architect willing to delve into uncharted territory. When Whitehead found an overgrown 10-acre lot off Highway 6, his vision began to come to life, with help from architect William D. Parker. After three years of construction, he moved into the 5,000-square-foot abode. It

Designing and building a modern home was a lifelong dream for Jason Whitehead, and, after many years, he achieved his goal. Next, Whitehead will take his creativity outdoors, where he plans to design a landscape influenced by architect Frank Lloyd Wright.

May 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

INVITATION TUPELO | May 2015

EVERYONE

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Whitehead opted for neutral colors and sleek furniture for his interior decor. He chose pieces that wouldn’t compete with the view from his floor-to-ceiling windows and that blended well with the concrete and bamboo floors.

may not be high on a hillside, but the ultracustomized space is his version of perfection. “I don’t even know if I could sell this house,” he said. “It’s so specific to what I wanted.” The three-story house, completed in 2013, boasts just two bedrooms – one for himself and one for his 9-year-old daughter, Lennon. It took Whitehead years to settle on the design of the home, but all along, he knew he had one major requirement: plenty of natural light. “What kills me is when people build these huge houses and spend $50,000 on windows and then cover everything up with curtains,” he said. “There are so many things you miss if you have your windows closed. I wanted to see out.” Concrete floors and floor-to-ceiling windows encase a subtle monochromatic palette of black, white and gray. The home has minimal artwork, instead letting nature provide the decor through gigantic walls of windows. The finished product is Whitehead’s boyhood dream, but it was met with its fair share of hesitation from the community. Passers-by would often drop in during construction inquiring about what they assumed was a doctor’s office or warehouse, and a few even offered their unsolicited opinions. “You’re not going to please everyone,” he said. “But this is what I’ve always wanted. I love it.”

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“I built this for Lennon.

Everything she would want. Even down to the ScoobyDoo doors and secret entries.

It’s all for her.”

-JASON WHITEHEAD

INVITATION TUPELO | May 2015

Whitehead’s daughter, Lennon, is proud of her unique home. She often points it out to classmates on the school bus when they’re en route to a field trip. Her favorite element is a hidden passageway that connects her room to her father’s room.

At first glance, the contemporary home may seem more suitable for adults, but Lennon was at the forefront of her dad’s mind throughout the design process. Her colorful paintings of flowers, rainbows and her namesake, John Lennon, line shelves and inject pops of color throughout the otherwise muted interior. Whitehead built her a playroom with a secret door and a hidden arts-and-crafts room that can only be accessed with knowledge of the entrance. Downstairs, there’s a movie theater with stadium seating that has screened its fair share of Frozen sing-alongs for Lennon and her friends. “When the lights turn off, all the girls snuggle into one chair,” Whitehead said. “We have this big room, and they’re piled on top of each other.” Next, Whitehead plans to take his craft outside to landscape the yard and build Lennon the garden she’s been begging for. It’s shaping up to be another timeconsuming project, but Whitehead is all in. Beyond the design or material items, it’s what’s inside the concrete walls that matters most to him. “I built this for Lennon,” he said. “Everything she would want. Even down to the Scooby-Doo doors and secret entries. It’s all for her.”

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Rose Crusade Local rose growers are on a mission to prove that growing beautiful roses doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to be difficult, especially with assistance and inspiration from the Northeast Mississippi Rose Society. WRITTEN BY Caitlin Adams | PHOTOGRAPHED BY Joe Worthem

May 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

INVITATION TUPELO | May 2015

his month, garden enthusiasts and vases of blooms will fill the lobby of Tupelo’s Renasant Bank as rose growers compete in the 16th annual Northeast Mississippi Rose Society’s Rose Show. Growers from Alabama, Tennessee and Mississippi have spent months primping their flowers to debut in front of a panel of judges, but for these avid rose growers, membership is more than vying for best in show one weekend a year. It’s a camaraderie of gardeners who share a single hobby: roses. Members gather monthly for seminars, speakers, and classes and host dinners at their homes to showcase their own gardens. “We have so much fun together touring each other’s gardens and learning tips from one another,” said former Rose Society president Lee Pryor Caldwell of Tupelo. Lee Pryor has been an ardent rose grower for more than 40 years. Her yard, landscaped by her husband, Rudy, houses more than 40 variations of rosebushes. “I don’t have the most bushes, but I take great pride in the ones I have,” she said.

Red, peachy-pink and yellow roses surround a backyard gazebo Rudy gave her for their 30th wedding anniversary. Knockout and shrub roses make up a portion of the property, but hybrid tea roses – Lee Pryor’s favorite and her award-winning bloom – run rampant. “Hybrid tea roses are the classic roses with the perfect rosebud and perfect form,” she said. “They’re just beautiful.” With all the time and energy it takes to plant, prune and fertilize her roses, Lee Pryor says there’s nothing like putting the fresh blooms to use. “One of the biggest joys of growing roses is to make an arrangement and take them to somebody,” she said. “It’s great to be able to share.” It’s a tradition for which Rose Society founding member Tommie Bourland, who took care of more than 200 bushes until her death last spring, was known. “People would call her [Bourland] before hosting a party and ask if they could trim some roses for an arrangement,” Lee Pryor said. “She loved to do things like that. Tommie was the

life of the Rose Society. It’s going to be very difficult for us to go on without her, but it is important to keep her legacy alive.” Lee Pryor hopes to do so by recruiting more members and introducing new growers to a process that has evolved over the years. “Growing roses was so much more trouble in the past,” she said. “Things have greatly improved since then, and there’s nothing to be intimidated of. I’m kind of a crusader, and I don’t want to lose the art of rose growing in Mississippi.” Lee Pryor says anyone is welcome to join the Rose Society; all it takes is showing up, and participants don’t have to grow their own roses. But if Lee Pryor has anything to do with it, rosebushes will be planted across Mississippi in no time. “Once we get a hold of you, I have no doubt you’ll want to plant your own bushes,” she said. To learn more about the Northeast Mississippi Rose Society, contact president Tracy Kramer at 662-489-1506.

Lee Pryor’s Six Tenets for Beautiful Roses PLAN YOUR ROSE GARDEN • Decide what kind of roses to plant. Hybrid tea roses are Lee Pryor’s blooms of choice because of their symmetrical shape and resistance to disease. • Select a location with drainage and at least six hours of sun a day.

PREPARE BEDS • Lee Pryor gets a soil test through the MSU Extension Office every year and recommends all rose growers do the same. Soil pH should be 6.2-6.8 for healthy roses. • Lee Pryor swears by a soil mix of one-third topsoil, one-third builder’s sand and one-third organic matter, such as humus.

PLANT NEW ROSES • “Air circulation is crucial,” she said. Rosebushes should be spaced 4 feet apart to allow for optimal airflow. • Lee Pryor recommends roses be planted in early spring, around March.

PRUNE EXISTING ROSES • Lee Pryor now has her rose routine down pat and only prunes once a week. • Her pruning musts include using a sharp bypass pruner, removing deadwood and pruning hybrid teas to 18-24 inches high.

FERTILIZE AND WATER • Use an organic fertilizer mix two to three times per growing season. • Pour liquid fertilizer around each bush monthly. • Spray fungicides every seven to 14 days to control black spot, a fungus that can destroy roses. • Use an insecticide as needed to minimize pests. • Water two to three times per week. Lee Pryor says watering blooms early in the morning is important so foliage can dry before nightfall.

CUT AND ENJOY • Lee Pryor recommends cutting roses early in the day and using a bucket of water to store fresh cuts. • Remove thorns. • When cutting, she says to leave two five-leaflets on stem to ensure more blooms. • Don’t forget her favorite part: sharing fresh roses with friends. May 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

INVITATION TUPELO | May 2015

Kevin Parker for Coroner Integrity Dignity & Respect for Lee County May 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

A Lakeside GATHERING PLACE Wanda and Larry Todd designed their open, lakefront Country Club home as a place for entertaining, from cooking for their grandchildren to hosting elaborate formal affairs. WRITTEN BY Caitlin Adams | PHOTOGRAPHED BY Joe Worthem

INVITATION TUPELO | May 2015

May 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

After Wanda Todd, pictured below, and her husband, Larry, purchased their Country Club home, they completely remodeled the inside to reflect their personalities and lifestyle. Some of Wanda’s favorite features are the home’s spacious and functional kitchen and the grand staircase in the foyer. The view of and proximity to the neighborhood lake, shown on the previous pages, helped influence the interior design.

anda Todd has mastered the role of hostess. Her kitchen shelves teem with limited-edition McCarty Pottery pieces, her backyard looks more like a resort than a residence, and she has an arsenal of furnishings that would impress even the most seasoned interior designer. But her secret weapon isn’t a clay serving dish or a meticulous lawn; it’s the home where she entertains. Wanda and husband Larry moved into the Country Club abode eight years ago, but not before tearing it down to the studs. They spent months stripping wallpaper, skimming popcorn ceilings and re-landscaping the entire backyard. With the exception of the original planked wood floors and doors, the renovation was a complete overhaul. From the piles of dust and stacks of empty paint cans emerged the house of their entertaining dreams.

INVITATION TUPELO | May 2015

The couple knew it was a large project to undertake, but they fell in love with the home’s location, landscaping and natural light. “I love light,” Wanda said. “That was the first thing that drew me to this house.” Plus, the bones of the home had design elements that Wanda desired, including a grand staircase in the foyer and large windows overlooking the neighborhood lake. “You learn from house to house what you like and what you don’t like,” she said. “This house had the space we wanted.” Some of Wanda’s nonnegotiables included a home that is both functional and fun, a spacious kitchen and a place where her two grandchildren would want to kick back with friends. And for the social couple that is known for their soirees, the flow of the house was key. The result is a curated home that sets a precedent in entertaining. Wanda, a board member at GumTree

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May 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

The Todds’ inviting outdoor space includes a swimming pool, a gazebo that functions as a full outdoor kitchen, and a manicured lawn and garden overlooking the neighborhood lake. Below, a colorfully decorated covered porch is an intimate sitting area that offers a transition between the house and the expansive backyard.

Museum of Art, wanted guests to feel comfortable in her home. She created an aesthetic that reflects the couple’s travels, and the walls contain an eclectic mix of one-of-a-kind pieces she’s found both locally and across the world. The main floor’s decor packs plenty of punch, from statement wallpaper and Oriental vases to a commissioned painting of the Natchez Trace. Textiles, artwork and furniture are infused with French and Southern flair, and Wanda’s impressive collection of English blueand-white china spills into every room. “I like traditional with a lot of Oriental elements,” she said. “I just like something different.” Beyond that, her decorating creed is simple: “You can use just about anything you want,” she said. “If I like it, I find a space.” That was her mindset when she saw a painting of water lilies by Tupelo artist William

INVITATION TUPELO | May 2015

May 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

The Todds remodeled their entire home as a place to entertain. When the weather is warm, the backyard and poolside gazebo are the perfect backdrop for everything from smaller family functions that cater to their grandchildren to bigger, more formal affairs for supporters of the GumTree Museum of Art or Wanda’s garden club.

Flewellen Heard. The home didn’t have much blue or green, but Wanda was drawn to the painting’s calm waters. When Larry surprised her with the painting, she found a place for it, which led to a facelift for her sitting room. “I’ve had to decorate around this picture,” she laughed. “It’s one of my favorite pieces and an instant conversation starter.” The decor is a win-win for the hosts. The muted color palette can be easily tweaked with fresh flowers or linens to create a different ambience for each party so repeat guests – whether from the museum or her garden club – are surprised by the home’s versatility. While the house itself makes a statement, most every furnishing manages to pull double duty. Wanda pulls vases off shelves and styles arrangements with her signature white hydrangeas, and has been known to dust off a dish hanging on the wall to serve appetizers.

INVITATION TUPELO | May 2015

“Everything is multifunctional,” she said. Her favorite element is a large island that anchors the kitchen. It’s the spot guests gather around to eat and her grandchildren pull up their stools. “If they’re coloring or painting, they sit right here and I cook,” she said. “It’s fun.” What the upstairs has in chic, curated quarters, the downstairs and outside has in laid-back living. Family members, friends and guests flock outdoors for the Mickey Mouseshaped pool, gazebo boasting a full kitchen, and landscaped garden. Wanda says that as long as the thermometer is above freezing, everyone gravitates outdoors. The landscaping was the last thing they completed, but it has proved essential. “My house really functions as a party house,” she said. “You don’t get stuck. There’s something for everyone, inside or out.”

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May 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

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Master gardener Dale Smith shares his secrets on successfully making and using organic compost in the garden and yard. WRITTEN BY Caitlin Adams PHOTOGRAPHED BY Joe Worthem

ON ANY GIVEN DAY, DALE Smith’s kitchen is full of apple cores, banana peels and crushed eggshells. But these are not the contents of his trashcan; they’re essential ingredients for his homemade compost. “Very few things get thrown away in this house,” he said. Smith, retired chief naturalist for the Natchez Trace Parkway and an instructor with Lee County Master Gardeners, is on a quest for sustainability. For the past five years, his homemade compost has nourished his vegetable garden, lawn and extensive plant collection. Smith’s first attempt at composting proved unsuccessful; he didn’t do enough research to learn the secrets for a successful batch. After spotting a compost bin design in a magazine, he decided to give it a second shot and got to work building his own version. “It’s the best design I’ve ever seen, especially in a city environment,” Smith said. “Most of the time when you think of compost, you think of dirty and unsightly.” But Smith’s bins, made of lumber and wire, blend right in to his landscape. The convenient construction allows him to mix compost right in his backyard. At the end of each day, Smith dumps piles of kitchen scraps into his bins. He blends and waters the mixture, which can heat up to 130° May 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

as the organisms that break down the compost do their work. After eight weeks, and once it’s cool to the touch, Smith spreads the compost throughout his yard. His chemical-free mixture serves as an organic fertilizer. It prevents diseases such as black spot from infecting his garden’s produce while protecting delicate tree roots. Recently, Smith decided to share his methods by teaching classes at the Mississippi State University Extension Office. He encourages his students to redefine the term “trash.” “Compost is the best fertilizer you can put on anything,” he said. “The great part is, you already have what you need.”

MAINTAINING COMPOST BINS LIKE SMITH’S MAY BE A bigger operation than some are willing to undertake, but compost can be made on any scale. Here are some of his tried-and-true tricks for a healthy recipe.

• Smith’s three cardinal rules are: turn, mois-

turize and aerate. Stirring and hydrating the mixture allows the healthy bacteria to do its job while warding off disease-riddled microbes. • Do not add any animal products to compost. “Fat, cat litter and egg yolks are a no-no, but I like to add lots of eggshells,” he said. • “Chop, chop, chop in the kitchen,” he said. Smith advises against whole banana peels or heads of lettuce. The smaller the pieces, the quicker the process. • Anything organic is fair game. Contents from his paper shredder, recycled egg cartons, apple cores, lettuce, weeds and coffee grounds are just a few of the things Smith adds on a daily basis. Last year, he collected 400 bags of leaves off the street to add to his mix. • Smith’s final soil formula is one-third compost, one-third peat moss and one-third coarse vermiculite, a mineral used as a soil conditioner that’s often available at garden centers. FOR MORE INFORMATION on Lee County Master Gardeners and their free, public classes, visit leecountymastergardeners.com.

INVITATION TUPELO | May 2015

May 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

CONVENTIONAL COMPOST TEA IS MADE WITH A simple combination of compost and water, but this process has its shortcomings, according to Smith. It creates an anaerobic environment and can be a breeding ground for pathogens. Wary of the presence of disease-riddled compost tea, Smith began making Conventional Actively Aerated Compost Tea (AACT) through a process that makes it safe for use. Here’s how he does it: SUPPLIES NEEDED

• Aquarium air pump • 8-foot-long plastic tubing,

available in the aquarium section of a pet store • 5-gallon bucket • Aquarium air stone (the largest you can find to fit in the bottom of the bucket) • Panty hose (size Q) • Compost (4 cups) • Chlorine-free water (try rainwater) • Source of food (molasses, fruit juice, cane syrup and maple syrup all work well) PREPARATION • Place the air stone in the bucket, and tape it down to keep it stationary. • Connect the tubing to the air stone and run the other end to the air pump. • Tie together the legs of the panty hose. • Stretch the waistband over the top of the bucket (the air hose will be pinched between the panty hose and bucket lip). • Fill what’s left of the legs of the panty hose with 4 cups of compost. • Fill the bucket nearly to the top with rain water or chlorine-free water. • Turn on the air pump and let the bubbles work the microbes from the compost and into the water. • Let the tea brew for 48-72 hours. HOW TO USE • Once tea is ready, strain through cheesecloth into another bucket (return solid leftovers to the compost pile). • Use a cup or watering can to drench plants or attach a sprayer to water leaves.

INVITATION TUPELO | May 2015

At left, Dale Smith tends to his backyard compost bins by watering the mixture. While Smith maintains the bins by stirring and hydrating their contents, he says it’s the organisms that grow in the nutrientrich mixture that do the hard work. “All I do is orchestrate them and keep them happy,” Smith said. “The critters are the ones making the compost for me.”

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Tupelo, Mississippi • 709 West Main • 662.844.9444 Ripley, Mississippi • 101 Hospital Street • 662.837.4215 Tupelo, Mississippi • 709 West Main • 662.844.9444 Ripley, Mississippi • 101 Hospital Street • 662.837.4215

May 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

BEFORE

INVITATION TUPELO | May 2015

A Tupelo Original One of Tupelo’s oldest homes has been completely renovated to recapture its historic charm. WRITTEN BY Caitlin Adams | PHOTOGRAPHED BY Joe Worthem

hen Charlotte and Joe Young bought the second oldest home in Tupelo, their purchase came with a great deal of responsibility. Tradition is held dear in the historical neighborhood, and the last thing anyone wanted was out-of-towners modernizing a Civil War-era home. Turns out, the Youngs were exactly what the neighborhood needed. Charlotte was experienced in restoring historic homes, and she decided to make the Victorian-turned-Craftsman-style abode her newest project. “My plan was to restore it to keep it as authentic as possible,” she said. The home had been vacant for two years when the Youngs first viewed the property. They were met with cracked plaster walls and years’ worth of deferred maintenance that had led to squirrels in the attic and honeybees in the walls. What might have been a deal breaker to some was exactly what made Charlotte sign on the dotted line. She saw a diamond in the rough, brimming with character. “I had a real vision of how I wanted to live at this point in my life,” she said. “I didn’t want to live in a cookie-cutter house in a cookie-cutter neighborhood. I just couldn’t see myself coming home to a house that looked just like everybody else’s.” A few years later and with hundreds of hours logged, Charlotte and Joe’s 4,000-square-foot project has proven it’s not for the faint of heart. Mornings, afternoons and evenings have been spent sanding, painting, staining and gardening, and it continues to be a work in progress. “I like having a project but it’s kind of a love-hate relationship,” Charlotte said, laughing. “Sometimes you love it so much that you’re willing to tolerate the downsides.” This home was no exception. Charlotte and Joe had to give up perks that come with a new build, including a walk-in closet and large master bathroom. The excessive heating bill and demanding upkeep that come with 14-foot ceilings weren’t met with much enthusiasm either, but to Charlotte, a home with a history comes at a price that’s worth it.

Charlotte and Joe Young restored charm to their historic Tupelo home. Exterior renovations included removing ivy, reseeding grass and building gardens. Original details such as a brick path were uncovered in the process.

May 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

WHAT THEY DID KITCHEN Tired of seeing the same kitchen designs splattered across magazine pages, Charlotte had different plans for her own space. She wanted to break the mold. “I wanted the look of a period kitchen in an old home,” she said. “Not one where someone came in and built their new gourmet kitchen.” The couple got to work tearing out the lower cabinets and scraping off plaster to reveal the exposed brick wall where the wood-burning stove once sat. Joe set out to find traditional elements and came across a functional vintage stove and a large cast-iron sink on Craigslist. Subway tile backsplash and butcher-block countertops, a detail that would have been found in the original home, were their final touches to give the space an authentic feel. “I love that my kitchen is like no one else’s,” Charlotte said.

GAME ROOM Joe, a stock trader who works from the home library, has logged his fair share of hours in the renovation. His time between conference calls is spent doing daily projects, and Charlotte felt her husband deserved a sign of appreciation. Her gratitude came wrapped in green felt. The dining room just so happened to be the one room large enough to house a pool table – an item Joe had wanted for a long time – so Charlotte picked her battles with her husband-turned-handyman. “It’s my reward for all of this,” Joe said, arms open to the house.

LANDSCAPING Before the couple could even conceive a design that would bolster the home’s curbside appeal, they had plenty of cleanup work to do. The home was suffocating in weeds, the previous owners’ flowers had been destroyed, and grass was sparse. “Taking vines off of columns was our first

INVITATION TUPELO | May 2015

priority,” Joe said. “There were about 10 years’ worth of leaves out there.” Once the initial cosmetic work was complete, they created a landscape that was worthy of the home’s splendor. A newly constructed courtyard amid flower beds and a fishpond adds a whimsical touch to the property, and an original brick path, uncovered by Charlotte, leads guests to a vegetable garden. The couple plans to construct a deck for entertaining outdoors, but Joe admits he’s not rushing to tackle that project. “We’ll see if we’re still up for it,” he said, laughing.

BEFORE

THE DETAILS Authenticity is always on the forefront of Charlotte and Joe’s minds, and this can be seen in every little detail, inside and out. When faced with the difficult task of repairing cracks in the sky-high plaster walls, Charlotte’s son gave her an idea that saved her time and sanity. “He told me that people pay for that marbled-paint, faux cracked-plaster effect,” she said. “I decided to go with it in the pool room.” Instead of climbing on a ladder to fill each crack, Charlotte painted a textured pattern on the walls and ceiling that camouflaged the damage. And when it came time to choose paint colors, Charlotte looked to the home’s history for help. She ripped out derelict wallpaper to expose old chalk paint. Although it could not be restored, the original colors helped inspire the home’s decor. Thought was put into even the smallest of accents. Every bedroom is equipped with a working fireplace, and the bathrooms have claw-foot tubs instead of modern whirlpool tubs. Light fixtures, beams and stairwells are all original, and Joe’s favorite area, a sleeping porch overlooking the front yard, is their go-to spot for enjoying a cup of coffee or the newspaper. “As big as this house is, there’s still no place to hide [inside].” Joe said. “This is where I come to escape.”

BEFORE

Below, a billiards table is the centerpiece of the game room, one of Joeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favorite spaces in the house. Bottom left, Charlotte redesigned her kitchen to reflect the homeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s past with authentic details including a vintage stove, butcher-block countertops and a cast-iron sink. Bottom right, the entryway showcases high ceilings, a grand staircase and ornate woodwork. Paint colors throughout the home were inspired by original colors uncovered in the renovation.

May 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

photographed by Lisa Roberts

events Amory Railroad Festival View more event photos @ invitationtupelo.com.

The 36th annual Amory Railroad Festival took place April 9-12 at Frisco Park in Amory, Miss., which was established as a railroad town in the late 1800s. The festival includes live entertainment, a pageant, arts-and-crafts vendors, a car show, a 5K race and more.

Randy Sutton, Danny Booth and Claxton Smith

Pam Gann, Annabelle Holman, Kathryn Thompson and Michelle Holman

Brantley and Braxton Ward

Kerry Dortch and Addy Williamson

Mary Barker and Darby Carson

Angie Flurry and Heather Russell

Carlee Collins, Kim Chennault and Natalie Pinkerton

Jena Pickle and Danielle Hill

INVITATION TUPELO | May 2015

Patty Weeks and Shannon Mansell

Gerald Tutor, Danny Settles and Andy Chapman

Jennifer and Lane Evans

Sadie Crook and Cora Carter

Diane Pickle, Jack Lott and Kathie Fallin

Shelia Cowley and Betty Hunter

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.

HOURS: Tuesday–Friday 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Saturday 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Sunday 1 p.m.–5 p.m. Closed Mondays and Major Holidays

FREE ADMISSION! For more information, please call

662-256-2761

Email: bomiller@cityofamoryms.com suebrown@cityofamoryms.com 801 3rd Street South, Amory, MS 38821 May 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

photographed by Chasity Dees

events Wine Downtown View more event photos @ invitationtupelo.com.

Downtown Tupelo businesses stayed open late April 23 for Wine Downtown, a wine tasting and open house event sponsored by the Downtown Tupelo Main Street Association and Trustmark Bank. An after party took place on the Park Heights rooftop.

Magan Beasley and Mandy Collins

Roger and Lisa Smith with David Leathers and Anne and Jason Palmer

Ira Kinard, Candace McFarland and Romanda Hampton

Rico Gray, Kristy Evans Clay, Tora Harris and Orzeel Brown

Marcus and Jenea Britton

Janine and Clay Hassell

Zelda and Robert Dexter

Kristy Pierce, Tiffany Jones and Tonya Walker

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INVITATION TUPELO | May 2015

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May 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

photographed by Chasity Dees

events Pontotoc Art Gala View more event photos @ invitationtupelo.com.

The Pontotoc Artists Guildâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s April 24 spring gala featured an art exhibit with work by local artists and live music by the Jazz Lite Orchestra. The annual event was held at Pontotoc Community House.

Ellen Russell and Phil Tutor

Joyce Gibbs and Curtis Downs

INVITATION TUPELO | May 2015

Larry Gooch, Ernie Reece and Gary Gooch

Tammie Weeks and Connie Kidd

Claire McGee and Patti Stark

Robbie Boyd and Barbara Baldwin

Lee Holmes Waltress and Miriam Clark

Norman and Dani Schacht

Shane Crausby and Kim Gambrell-Crausby

Jane Coryell and Jean Ferguson

TPM

The Perfect Monogram

Come see us at our new location!

662-728-4447 415 North Second St. Booneville, MS May 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

photographed by Chasity Dees

events County Line Music Festival View more event photos @ invitationtupelo.com.

The County Line Music Festival took place April 25 in Baldwyn, Miss., with live music in five local venues, a songwriter competition, a 5K color run, arts-and-crafts booths, food vendors and more.

Patti Coggins and Lynn Biscan

Jameson Woodard and Jordan Eldridge

Ashton and Andrea Sanders

INVITATION TUPELO | May 2015

Mya Spencer, Tavania Stewart, Caterra Stewart and Tyrani Key

Jennifer Coggins with Mika and Heather Underwood

Dawn Johnson and Kara Courtney

Larry and Angela Pounds

Judy Tucci, Maria Tucci-Hughes and Townes Hughes

Amelia Nelson and Tess Parker

Jill Bullock and Anna Slack

New Outdoor Fabrics! MONDAY - WEDNESDAY 8:30-5 THURSDAY - FRIDAY 8:30-5:30 1ST SATURDAY OF MONTH 9-3

662-407-0026 www.phifabrics.com 2020 South Gloster, Tupelo, MS

T he Red Door

rd Stre est Oxfo 346-A W , MS Pontotoc 74 10 662-489y -Saturda Monday p.m. 10 a.m.-5

Monday - Friday 10 - 5 Saturday 10 - 4 • Sunday - Closed

346-A West Oxford St. Pontotoc, Ms 662-489-1074 May 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

photographed by Chasity Dees

events Noleput

View more event photos @ invitationtupelo.com.

Noleput, Tupelo’s annual New Orleans-style street festival, returned to downtown April 25. Festivities included a parade, children’s activities sponsored by HealthWorks!, food vendors, live music on two stages plus more in the VIP area inside the Silver Moon Club.

Brandon and Toni Haley with Lauren Mask and Andrew Hurst

Molly Bryan, Amy Warner and Rachel Tally

Dalton Hood, Neely Turner, Hunter Tyler, Vanessa Sansone and Amanda Gibson

Gail Coggins and Dianne Harris

Will Young and Layla Taylor

Kris Harper with Josh and Elizabeth Wheeler

• LAWN & BED WEED CONTROL & FERTILIZATION • LAWN & LANDSCAPE INSECT CONTROL • FIRE ANT CONTROL • CORE AERATION TRE • DISEASE TREATMENTS

INVITATION TUPELO | May 2015

Tonia Enlow and Casondra Tate

Dare 2 B Different Boutique 410A S. GLOSTER STREET TUPELO | MS

662.842.9010 TUESDAY - SATURDAY 11AM - 6PM

Sam Stevens Motors

COME SEE US AT OUR NEW LOCATION IN

TUPELO !

Like us on

THE SOUTH’S LUXURY DEALER One of Mississippi’s Longest Running Car Stores with 43 Years and in Our 3rd Generation!

3716 South Eason Blvd, Tupelo 841-9400 Mon - Sat 9:00 am - 6:00 pm www.samstevensmotors.com At Sam Stevens Motors,

“We don't believe in pressure or confusion. Easy, accommodating, straight forward and fair is how we choose to be" - Sam May 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

photographed by Chasity Dees

events Ron White Show View more event photos @ invitationtupelo.com.

Comedian Ron White performed a stand-up show at BancorpSouth Arena April 25. White is best known as a charter member of the Blue Collar Comedy Tour. He has also acted in television and films and written a book.

Susan and Jim Rish

Pam Fretz and Tonya Moore with Vicky and Ricky Lacy

Robert and Kim Haggerty with Ileen and Robert Marshall

Cosby Repult and Abbie Wade

John, Ginny and Larry Gann

Heather Jones and Sharla Saylors Debi and Mike McGhie

INVITATION TUPELO | May 2015

Tucker Wood and McCarthy Repult

Teresa Cash, Mendi Greenway and Pam Stein

Cindy and Raymond Jourdan

Casi and Scott Dees

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Making your memories happen, while you're busy living them! Lindsey Hines, Event Coordinator

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Saltillo, MS www.effortlesseventsms.com May 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

photographed by Lisa Roberts

events Dancing with the King View more event photos @ invitationtupelo.com.

Professional and amateur dancers gathered in Tupelo March 27-29 for Dancing with the King weekend. Events included dance workshops, competitions, special guests and a Saturday night dinner dance and gala at St. James Catholic Churchâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Shelton Hall.

Paul, Amanda and Rosemary Harkins

Tommy Glass, Shirley Scott and Jack Curtis

Janesia Cobbs and Dashai Kennedy

Matt Embler and Morgan Oswalt

Stephanie Wright and Destry Heylin

Debbie Soward and Betty Lopeman

INVITATION TUPELO | May 2015

Robert Greenwood and Lee Oswalt

Rosa Lee Harden and Kem Overby

Shirley, Christian and Anthony Dean

Jason and Denise Kennedy-Brown

Amanda and Scott Angle

Merrill Mitchell and Elizabeth Edwards

April and Sean Carpenter

Barbara Clements and Bud Garrett

I n -H o m e s e n I o r Care servICes “ I am thankful for the two years of service with Comfort Keepers, because it has allowed me to be taken care of in my own home. ” - Ms. Virginia Taylor 91 years young

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

May 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

out and about

CONTINUED ON PAGE 94

THE LYRIC KREWE MEET-AND-GREET AT TCT OFF BROADWAY

WOODMEN OF THE WORLD DONATES 85 U.S. FLAGS TO VETERANS PARK MEMORIAL

(front) Alexander Simpson with Madeline and Charlie White; (back) Rufus Van Horn, Bob Reinhaus and John Young

Dinky Crowder, Paul Littlejohn, Ronnie Young, Paul Dunklee and Cynthia Baird

WOODMEN OF THE WORLD AT VETERANS PARK MEMORIAL

CHILDREN’S FISHING RODEO AT VETERANS PARK

Ben Inman, Reggie Horton, Bob Verell and Dick Hill

Morgan, Anthony and Brandy Harris

LYNN JOHNSON BOOK SIGNING AT CARON GALLERY

GUMTREE MUSEUM OF ART GALA FUNDRAISER

Jean Laney and Gabrielle Cooper

INVITATION TUPELO | May 2015

Jamie and Baylor King

Janice and Curtis Trawick

Trish Johnson and chef Lynn Johnson

TUPELO HIGH SCHOOL’S SENIOR PROM AT TRACEWAY RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

Janay Hudson, Daisy Gutierrey, Cody Chambers, Mayor Jason Shelton, Brittany Brock and Farah McGaughy

Tommie and Bill Webb (selected prom queen and king by resident vote)

NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI DOWN SYNDROME SOCIETY’S PRE-CIRCUS PARTY

(front) Stacy Flowers and Ramsey Meadows; (back) Denise Kennedy-Brown with Isabelle and Leslie Junkin

Chandler, Michelle, Peyton, Scott and Preston Knight May 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

out and about

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 93

SALTILLO BECOMES MISSISSIPPI MAIN STREET CITY

AMERICAN LEGION GROUND-BREAKING CEREMONY

Scottie Thompson, Mayor Rex Smith, Jan Miller and Mary Parker

Nettie and Fred Davis

Ronnie K. Young and Carol Ann Coker

RINGLING BROS. AND BARNUM & BAILEY CIRCUS

Logan Daugherty, Dorothy Chaney and Breanna Suddieth

Cortnee, Rosavelle, Zhane and Matt Crumpton

Nathan and Kristen Overall with Emily Michael and David and Alise Emerson

NORTH MISSISSIPPI SYMPHONY ORCHESTRAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S CARNEGIE HALL LINK-UP PERFORMANCES

Emily Parnell, A.V. Leake, Arianna Giorgenti, Brenda Gilbert and Alonzo Holliman

INVITATION TUPELO | May 2015

Steven Byess and Brian Cheesman

TUPELO HIGH SCHOOL ART AUCTION

Dr. Phillip Graham, Optometrist Ken Calloway and Sonja Webb

SHANNON & GRAHAM EYE CLINIC

662.489.4741 • 14 East Marion St. Pontotoc, MS 38863 Bill Seawright, Optician Melanie Sellers, Tech

Amy Webb, Voz Vanelli, Karmen Tubbs and Morgan Mahin TUPELO STRINGS ORCHESTRA SPRING CONCERT

OUR WEBSITE HAS A NEW LOOK!

Visit invitationtupelo.com today! Alice Jones, Julie Laney and Kylie Moore

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Alyssa Dees and Teletha Newell May 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

TUPELO SPIRIT Reginald Rose

INTERVIEWED BY Melanie Crownover | PHOTOGRAPHED BY Andrew Stanford Reginald Rose is a certified Lee County Master Gardener who uses his experience to help make Tupelo a more beautiful place. This month, the master gardeners will take part in the opening of the newly rebranded farmers market.

Q: How are the master gardeners helping the Tupelo Farmers’ Depot?

A: With our Celebration of Gardens. We’ll be there opening day, May 16, from 10 to 11 a.m. with a monarch butterfly release and demonstrations on terrariums and fairy gardens. There’ll be bonsai artists and beekeepers. We’ll also introduce a new community orchard just south of the market on Spring Street.

Q: You were named a 2009 Mississippi Master Gardener of the Year for community service hours. What types of service have you done? A: I started volunteering with third, fourth and fifth graders in Tupelo schools. I taught junior master gardening every other week to them from mid-September to late April every year. We grew just about everything you could think of and did experiments to show the how and why of plant growth.

Q: Why did you help start the Spring Street Community Garden (pictured)?

A: People are realizing how important it is to know who grows your food and what chemicals and pollutants it may have been exposed to. This is a chance to teach our community the basics of growing its own food.

Q: And you’re involved with the Sanctuary Hospice House gardens?

A: Every April since 2006 we’ve put in cheerful and colorful annuals for the people there.

Q: Do you still teach? A: That’s one of the main things we do as master gardeners. I mainly teach adult classes to seniors, church groups and civic clubs. We love to garden, but we love to teach others how to enjoy their gardening experiences just as much.

INVITATION TUPELO | May 2015