April 2014, Invitation Tupelo

APRIL 2014

Inspired Art,

ARENA ANNIVERSARY, FOOD TRUCK FRENZY & MORE

IN THIS ISSUE APRIL 2014

FEATURES

APRIL 2014

Inspired Art,

ARENA ANNIVERSARY, FOOD TRUCK FRENZY & MORE

COVER ART BY CHARLIE BUCKLEY THE PAINTING DEPICTS THE CORNER OF INDUSTRIAL ROAD AND NELLE STREET IN TUPELO.

28 Captivating Carnivals An Invitation photographer captures dizzying rides, timeless ferris wheels and bright lights at Mississippi summer carnivals.

33 The Truck Stops Here Local Mobile was the first gourmet food truck to hit the streets in Tupelo, and its first-year success means others are likely to follow.

72 Making a Splash With two pools, diving boards, a climbing wall, a sun deck and more, the new Tupelo Aquatic Center has something for everyone.

76 Rock On BancorpSouth Arena is celebrating its 20th year with big-name bookings and sold-out shows, including Elton John and Bill Cosby.

EVENTS 16 18 20 22 23 26 36 38 40 42 44 60 62 64

Elton John Concert Tupelo Black Rodeo Empty Bowls Don’t Be Cruel BBQ Duel Ride with the King Michael Shurden Golf Benefit Habitat for Humanity Amanda Price 5K Run in Her Shoes The Giving Gala Tupelo Craft Beer Festival Walk MS Tupelo Ballet Cheer Competition

ANNOUNCEMENT

49 The Art of it All

Northeast Mississippi’s familiar landscape, Southern folklore, supportive communities and storied traditions are among the things that inspire five Tupelo artists – Charlie Buckley, Dot Courson, Brent Farrar, Helene Fielder and Lucia Randle Harrison – to create every day.

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INVITATION TUPELO | April 2014

14 Cleveland & Finley

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62 DEPARTMENTS 10 12 66 68 70 80

Letter From the Publisher What’s Happening Out and About In Season: Eggs Pets of the Month Tupelo Spirit: Jerry Webb

April 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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LETTER FROM

the publisher

O

ne of the many things I love about my job is that I’m often required to be creative. As a matter of fact, our livelihood in the magazine business depends on creative minds turning abstract thoughts into words and photographs on a page. I’m convinced that no matter our ages or occupations, we have the ability and need to express creativity. That desire can manifest itself in numerous ways, but the fact is, each of us is creative in some small way.

This month, Invitation Tupelo celebrates local artists whose daily work requires them to be inspired by their surroundings. What comes from that is different for each person we interviewed. These northeast Mississippians say that without the support of friends and family their creativity might not have flourished. And, like most artists, their ideas come from both the past and the present. Inspired by landscapes, previous careers and much more, each of these artists’ work is individual and different.

This month we also celebrate the musical talent Elton John, Bill Cosby, ZZ Top and many more have shared in Tupelo over the years. It’s fantastic to have a venue and leaders who work hard to bring big names to the area to share world-class music, comedy and art.

While most of us don’t have the impressive résumés these artists do to accompany our imaginations, we can still express our creativity by planting a garden, singing a song, learning something new, or just letting our minds explore while reading a book. Here’s to creativity, in every form.

RACHEL M. WEST, PUBLISHER

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INVITATION TUPELO | April 2014

PUBLISHER Rachel Malone West EDITOR Phil West DIRECTOR OF ADVERTISING Cindy Semmes MANAGING EDITOR Emily Welly ASSOCIATE MANAGING EDITOR Sonia Thompson EDITORIAL DESIGN Hallie M. Thomas, Emily R. Suber STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS Lisa Roberts, Joe Worthem STAFF WRITER Melanie Crownover ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS Alise M. Emerson, Sheena Hagemann, Leigh Lowery, Lynn McElreath, Mary Moreton, Moni Simpson AD DESIGN Becca Bailey, Paul Gandy, Zach Fields CONTRIBUTORS Faith Riley Dawson, Chasity Dees, Emily Gatlin, Arlene Beard Norton, Kristi Sizemore, Shea Summers

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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.

PLEASE RECYCLE THIS MAGAZINE

April 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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what’s happening April 15-May 15

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

5/3 KENTUCKY DERBY PARTY

FUNDRAISERS April 22

FESTIVALS, PERFORMANCES AND SPECIAL EVENTS April 17-19

April 26

Tupelo Film Festival

Music Saves Lives Concert

The eighth-annual Jeff Robertson Golf Fore Life fundraiser tournament is hosted by New Beginnings Adoptions. $80 per player, $300 per team. Lunch is provided at 11 a.m.; shotgun start at noon. newbeginningsadoptions.org/events

Independent films from around the world will be shown and judged. Malco Theatre, tupelofilmfestival.net

A concert to benefit the Shelter and Assistance in Family Emergencies (S.A.F.E.) organization of Tupelo. 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Ballard Park. For more information, contact Steven Edington, 662-397-3841.

May 3

A visit from Ole Miss features Head Football Coach Hugh Freeze and Athletics Director Ross Bjork. Lunch buffet. $20 in advance, $25 at the door. 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., BancorpSouth Arena, rebelroadtrip.com

Golf Fore Life

Kentucky Derby Party The 16th-annual Kentucky Derby Party to benefit Regional Rehab features a hat contest, live and silent auctions and more. Tickets $40. 3-9 p.m. Hosted by Tom Evans, 419 Robins St., Tupelo, 662-842-1891

May 3 Lyrics for Le Bonheur Lyrics for Le Bonheur singer/songwriter event features accomplished Nashville songwriters and local favorites.

Benefits Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital. Tickets $75.

7 p.m., The Antler, 662-840-2389

May 3-4 Skip Gleason Memorial Golf Tournament The third-annual tournament raises money to establish an endowed scholarship in Skip Gleason’s name at the University of Mississippi School of Law. Natchez Trace Golf Club, Saltillo, Miss. To register, call 662-869-2166.

May 15 Sounds of Sanctuary II Sanctuary Hospice House’s Sounds of Sanctuary II benefit concert features Svetlana Kaltchenko, violin; Nan Lawrence, flute; Martha Monroe, piano; and guest vocalist Lance Moore. Tickets, $10, are available at the door; in Tupelo at Room to Room, Reed’s and Sanctuary House; or in New Albany at Bankhead Florist. CDs will be sold at the concert. 7 p.m., Link Centre

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INVITATION TUPELO | April 2014

April 17 BancorpSouth Rebel Road Trip

April 18 Casting Crowns Christian rock band Casting Crowns performs as part of its Thrive tour, with guest appearances by Laura Story and For King & Country. 7 p.m., BancorpSouth Arena, bcsarena.com

April 24 Wine Downtown Join downtown retailers for wine tasting and appetizers.

Tickets $30 in advance, $35 on event day. 5-8 p.m., with a party for ticket holders following at Park Heights.

April 26 North Mississippi Symphony Orchestra North Mississippi Symphony Orchestra concert features Andreas Klein, piano, and Beethoven’s powerful Piano Concerto No. 3. 7:30 p.m., Lyric Theatre, nmsymphony.com

April 26 Miss Tupelo Elvis Festival Pageant The Miss Tupelo Elvis Festival Pageant is open to girls and women through age 21. The winner will appear at the Tupelo Elvis Festival, taking place June 5-8. 6 p.m., Civic Auditorium, tupeloelvisfestival.com

May 1-3 Tupelo Community Theatre Tupelo Community Theatre presents 9 to 5. Sponsored by North Mississippi Medical Center. 7:30 p.m. Thursday and Friday, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Saturday; Lyric Theatre; tctwebstage.com

May 2-4 Blue Suede Cruise The largest classic car event in the state, featuring more than 700 cars and live entertainment, kicks off with a drive-in movie at 7 p.m. May 2 at BancorpSouth Arena. Free admission. For a full schedule of events, visit bluesc.com.

May 3-4 Feathered Horse Spring Classic The sixth-annual Feathered Horse Spring Classic features Gypsy Vanner and Friesian horses. Free admission. Lee County Agri-Center, Verona, Miss., featheredhorseclassic.com

May 10 Bill Cosby Bill Cosby performs as part of his Far From Finished tour.

Cosby was the first performer at the arena, which is now celebrating its 20th year in business. 8 p.m., BancorpSouth Arena, bcsarena.com

May 10-11 GumTree Festival The 43rd-annual GumTree Festival celebrates the arts with art vendors, a juried art competition, live music, children’s activities and more. gumtreefestival.com

4/24 HEALTH FAIR

COMMUNITY OUTREACH April 17

New Beginnings Ask and Eat A Tupelo family shares its international adoption story.

Similar informational events are held the third Thursday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at the New Beginnings office, 2164 Southridge Drive, Tupelo. newbeginningsadoptions.org

April 24 Stages for the Ages Health Fair Avon Lea Assisted Living and Sanctuary Hospice present the Stages for the Ages Health Fair. Free admission.

9 a.m.-noon, Harrisburg Church. For more information, contact Chelsea Wildmon, 662-407-2400 or Renea Ethridge, 662-840-6163.

May 1 CDF Annual Meeting Community Development Foundation Annual Meeting.

5:30 p.m., Tupelo Furniture Market, cdfms.org

May 6 Summer Day Camp Registration Opens Register children for Tupelo Department of Parks and Recreation summer day camp. Camp runs June 2-July 11. www.tupeloms.gov/parkandrec

April 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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&

ALLISON BLAIR CLEVELAND

PHOTOGRAPHED BY AMELIA PATTERSON

ZACHARY CLAY FINLEY

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662.840.5555 • 3265 McCullough Blvd, Tupelo Check us out on facebook and at belleamesalonandspa.com

INVITATION TUPELO | April 2014

renda Estes of Tupelo, Miss., is proud to announce the engagement and forthcoming marriage of her daughter, Allison Blair Cleveland of Tupelo, to Zachary Clay Finley of Saltillo, Miss. The bride-elect is the daughter of V.M. Cleveland of Tupelo.

She is the granddaughter of Edith Marlene Shackelford Cobb and the late William Floyd Shackelford of Tupelo, and the late Wilson and Dorothy Cleveland of Sulligent, Ala. Blair is a 2007 graduate of Tupelo High School and a 2010 graduate of Mississippi State University. She received a Master of Taxation from the University of Mississippi in 2011. She is a real estate agent with Coldwell Banker.

The prospective groom is the son of Rickey and Rhonda Finley of Amory, Miss.

He is the grandson of Royce and Faye Finley of Nettleton, Miss., John and Jean Grubbs of Nettleton and Bill Walsh of Ocala, Fla. He is the great-grandson of Mary Parker and the late Dr. Ellis Parker of Amory.

Clay is a 2005 graduate of Nettleton High School, attended Itawamba Community College and is a 2011 graduate of the University of Mississippi. He is the health and safety engineer for Toyota Boshoku of Mississippi.

The couple will exchange wedding vows on May 3, 2014, at the Tupelo Country Club with a reception immediately following.

SPRING 2014

TEA COLL ECTIO N

RE ED’S CH ILDRE N’S S HISTORIC DOW NTOW N

HOP

TUPELO W W W.RE EDSMS.COM 662.842.6453

April 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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events Elton John Concert View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

Elton John and his Band performed March 19 at BancorpSouth Arena. The concert helped the arena celebrate its 20th year in business, as many remember John’s first show there in 1998. For a schedule of upcoming shows at the arena, visit bcsarena.com.

Suzette Murphy, Becky Medina, Mary Sisk and Candi Griggs

Elton John

Rachel Potts and Tammy Davis

Kim and Michael McCrory

Ella Stone, Sara Bobo, Sam Witt, Kathy Rosa and Jenny Bobo

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INVITATION TUPELO | April 2014

Lisa Parrish with Lena and Brenda Jordan

Tim and Molly Mills

Analyn Weeks, Sonya Mackey, Bridget Kelly and Carole Moore

photographed by Lisa Roberts

• AbdominoplAsty • breAst AugmentAtion • breAst reduction • liposuction • lAtisse • breAst reconstruction

Lucia Randle Harrison and Allie Randle

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Barbara and Brittan Ramsey

Jim and Jamie Johnson

Cora Polson and Jim Long April 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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photographed by Shea Summers

events Tupelo Black Rodeo View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

Justa Cowboy Association put on the first Tupelo Black Rodeo March 29 at BancorpSouth Arena. The association is devoted to preserving the cowboy way of life and contributions of African-American cowboys.

Meeka and Terry Grassaree

Reshard Eenes and Laneia Williams

Constance McGee and Reginald Thomas

Amecia Richards and Joe Ann Hill with Stacey and Shanteria Williams

Shania Ivy, Natriel McGomery and Aaliyah Ledbette

Katalina Zahn and Levi Emmons

Juliette and Standley Ashford

Ebony and Dominic Bryant

Mitra and Catina Hersey

Maya Conway and Pat Paul

ERA 1932

WOMENS’S BOUTIQUE & CHILDREN’S APPAREL

PERSNICKETY 1008 COMMONWEALTH BLVD. TUPELO, MS

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INVITATION TUPELO | April 2014

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photographed by Lisa Roberts

events Empty Bowls

View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

The Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary held its annual Empty Bowls luncheon fundraiser to benefit the Salvation Army March 5 at Tupelo Furniture Market. For $15, guests received a bowl of soup, bread and water, along with a handmade ceramic bowl to keep.

Tora Harris and Vonnia Clay

Shelly Daniel, Elizabeth Gable, Steven Lyles, Amber Raley, Paul Poland, Chuck McDougald Katrina Patty and Kathy Ositis and Randy Taylor

Marilyn Schaper, Vivian Fleming and Cindy Kirk

Brad King, John Bryson and Yoshiko Omae

Lori Baxter, Lynn Provine, Renea Ethridge and Shirley Bennett

Haiwei Zhou, Jerry Napier, Chickita Perkins and Lt. Jervonne Ursula Garner, Dieter Obergruber, Adam Henderson and Hinton Jamie Young

Fallon Roddy, Karen Robbins, Virginia Smith, Larica Rice and Amye Jo Nichols

Diamond Brokers TUPELO

Personalized gifts for Mother’s Day & Graduation 20

INVITATION TUPELO | April 2014

Diamonds • Jewelry • Gifts 662.844.6955

106 S. Industrial Road, Tupelo, MS 38801 Hours: M-F 9:00 am - 5:00 pm

April 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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events Don’t Be Cruel BBQ Duel View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

The fourth-annual Don’t Be Cruel BBQ Duel competition was held March 14-15 at Fairpark. The Kansas City Barbecue Societysanctioned competition also included live entertainment and raised money for the Link Centre.

Jane Gashen and Marge Plumber

Ben, Jake and Josh Logan

Anne Marie and Corey Littrell

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INVITATION TUPELO | April 2014

Jessica and Joe Estes with Valerie Donnell, David Swain, Joey Carlisle, Shawn Palmer and Josh Taylor

Brian Coleman with Lisa and Kenny Hastings

Jamie and Mark Williams

Nancy and Gary Bridges

Carter Simmons and Bill Deas

Dustin Davis, Bev Crossen and Tammy Rodgers

Tim Thomas and Scott Smith

photographed by Lisa Roberts

events Ride with the King View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

A motorcycle ride and rally was held in conjunction with the BBQ Duel to benefit the Yocona Area Council Boy Scouts of America.

Allen Knight, Tracy Crysup and Sonya Marbry

Adam, Katie and Maddy Dancy

Cody Bullock, Dennis Goldman and Chauncey Handley

Pennie and Andy Moran with Scott, Shannon and Payton Wood

Ricky Thompson and Greg Burks

Jimmy Tullos and Leslie Nabors

Donny and Tracy Bray with Steve and Barbara Upton

Jimmy Greer, Sally Robinson and Sparky

Melonie Kight and Kathy Tucker

PROGOLF TUPELO

662-844-9233 | 119 S Industrial Rd | Tupelo, MS 38801

We discount everything except service.

Bill Collins, OWNER

April 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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INVITATION TUPELO | April 2014

Creating Beautiful

Smiles

PARK PLACE

D E N TA L Ken Goodwin DMD Christine Rayburn DMD Amy Scopel DMD Family dentistry • Implants Cosmetic dentistry • Conscious sedation Crown and veneers in a day with CEREC Open Monday - Friday 8-5 662-728-8171 403 North 3rd St. Booneville, MS 38829 www.parkplacedentist.com

April 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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photographed by Lisa Roberts

events Michael Shurden Benefit Golf Tournament View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

Family and friends of Michael Shurden held a golf tournament fundraiser March 8 at Bel-Air Golf Course for Shurden, who has leukemia. All proceeds from the golf, barbecue plate lunches and more benefit Shurden and his family.

Conner and Michael Shurden

Jason Bowles and Tyler Tucker with Jenna and Chris Wiygul

Kelsea Smith and Katie Szabo

Megan Howard and Courtney Campbell

Trey Ellis, Paul White Jr., Paul White Sr., Patrick White and Steve Flowers

Sara Withrow and Sarah Nurse

Linda Williams with Ronnie, Nancy, Paige and Michael Shurden

Barrett Brady, Maury Giachelli, Steve Elmore and Johnny Robbins

Peyton McCullough, John Decker, Clint Berthay and Jake Logan

Ryan and Russell Tackett with Josh Dufford and Drew Headings

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INVITATION TUPELO | April 2014

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photographed by Shea Summers

An Invitation Tupelo photographer captures the dizzying rides, timeless ferris wheels and bright lights of summer carnivals against a dramatic Mississippi sky.

Scenes from festivals, fairs and carnivals that take place in the spring and summer evoke childlike wonder and a sense of nostalgia for this American tradition. When a fair visited Tupelo last year, Invitation Tupelo photographer Shea Summers set out to capture those feelings in pictures.

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INVITATION TUPELO | April 2014

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“Art is everywhere around us,” Summers said. Last year, she was inspired by the bright lights of familiar fair rides, which are dramatic against the evening sky. “My challenge was to focus on long exposure times to enhance movement of the rides,” she said.

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INVITATION TUPELO | April 2014

LOCAL CARNIVALS, FAIRS & FESTIVALS

FESTIVAL SEASON kicked off in March

with Tupelo’s Don’t Be Cruel BBQ Duel and the Tupelo Craft Beer Festival. There are many more celebrated communitywide events coming up this spring and summer that are not to be missed.

APRIL 17-19 TUPELO FILM FESTIVAL

Independent films from around the world will be shown and judged at Malco Theatre. tupelofilmfestival.net

MAY 10-11 GUMTREE FESTIVAL

Artists from around the South, local food vendors and big-name musicians will converge downtown for the 43rd-annual GumTree Festival, which attracts more artists and visitors to Tupelo every year. gumtreefestival.com

JUNE 5-8 TUPELO ELVIS FESTIVAL

Named one of the Southeast Tourism Society’s top 20 events for 2014, this year’s celebration of all things Elvis promises to be one of the biggest yet, with many of the festivities, including the much-anticipated Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest, moving to BancorpSouth Arena. tupeloelvisfestival.com

JULY 4 ALL-AMERICA CITY FAMILY PICNIC IN THE PARK

Live music, food, children’s activities and fireworks are all part of Tupelo’s communitywide Fourth of July celebration, put on every year in Ballard Park by the city’s Department of Parks and Recreation.

April 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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Animal Care Center of Tupelo

Animal Care Center of Tupelo

Animal Care Center “your other family doctor” of Tupelo

Catering Good Eats

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Tupelo, MS 38801 www.animalcarecenteroftupelo.net

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

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INVITATION TUPELO | April 2014

THE TRUCK

STOPS HERE

Tupelo’s first gourmet food truck is seeing success in its first year on the road, drawing lunchtime crowds even during the cold winter months and participating in a spring festival.

by Melanie Crownover photographed by Lisa Roberts

W

hen Curt McLellan (pictured) bought an old Knott’s Berry Farm delivery truck a year ago to take his version of fast food to the streets, he wanted to keep it simple.

There would be no gimmick, no one item plastered on his ride or masterfully worked into the business name. He didn’t want to be tied to one type of food; McLellan wanted freedom to go where his taste buds led, and he wanted to bring Tupelo residents with him on his journey.

The concept wasn’t a first. There have been other food truck vendors in the area before, but their menus consisted mainly of premade sandwiches and hot dogs to sell to factory workers on break. McLellan wanted to take the idea of food-truck fare and make it special.

“When I left Nashville to come here in 2008, there were only three food trucks in the city. Now there are about 20,” said McLellan, who previously worked as a health inspector.

“I had people tell me for two years that Tupelo would never allow a food truck here, but I wanted to bring in something innovative. Just because food is on the move doesn’t mean it has to taste like it.”

Local Mobile opened last August, trolling

the streets in a 1984 aqua step van customers might mistake for an ice-cream truck if not for the catchphrase scrawled along the side: “It’s a Food Truck, Y’all.”

The carte du jour is a short list of McLellan’s favorite dishes, including a few daily specials straight from his grandmother’s Cajun recipe book. Catfish po’boys. Burger sliders with sweet Asian sauce. Gumbo. Chicken and

dumplings. The menu is comfort food with a kick served with a drink for $8-$9.

“This is really good food. It’s more like a restaurant on wheels because it’s cooked to order and hot off the grill then goes straight to your hands,” Local Mobile’s marketing specialist Ashley Prince said. “We joke that I’m the marketing specialist or magician’s assistant here, but I’m more like the food truck groupie.

April 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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Curt McLellan’s Local Mobile food truck has developed a following since it hit the streets last August. Above, marketing specialist Ashley Prince serves up Local Mobile specialties during the March 22 Tupelo Craft Beer Festival, the food truck’s first attempt at serving a crowd during a communitywide event.

I’m his biggest foodie fan. It’s amazing what he creates here.”

Prince isn’t the only follower. Loyal customers track Local Mobile on Facebook and Twitter to learn each day’s 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. location and plan their lunches accordingly.

Monday and Tuesday’s stop is generally a site in West Tupelo, Wednesday’s is a downtown locale, Thursday’s is near the hospital, and Friday is Fairpark day. When a location gets quiet after about a month, the truck hits the road.

McLellan parked the truck in public lots and parks at lunchtime until winter hit.

Then colder temperatures and special requests brought the truck curbside to many businesses.

“I still can’t believe the response. Even with the weather to slow us down, we’re still

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INVITATION TUPELO | April 2014

serving 50 to 60 customers a day. We’ve had people stand outside in line in [a] 7-degree chill to order and had one guy drive to the hospital from the Spanish Village on his lunch break to eat with us,” McLellan said.

There have been a few speed bumps along the way – problems that a traditional restaurant never encounters. Local Mobile’s gas flat-top grill has gone cold several times due to frozen truck pipes; the truck’s master cylinder died; there’s been more than one flat tire; and the brakes have gone out three times. Vandals have also broken into the vehicle twice, leaving behind a food truck with no food.

Fortunately, the truck foodies stay hungry for more, and local restaurateur Adam Morgan at the Blue Canoe even opened his kitchen to

Local Mobile during one February breakdown.

McLellan said all of the difficulties won’t slow his momentum. The food truck pulled into new territory March 22 with its participation in the Tupelo Craft Beer Festival, a trial run in response to several requests to serve larger venues.

The mobile kitchen is also inspiring more than just appetites around town. McLellan reports at least 10 other entrepreneurs checking out his setup to find out how to start their own food truck business since he opened.

“That would be something I’d love to see,” he said. “We could get a rotation going with some of the sites and have Food Truck Friday at Fairpark together each week. What do you think of that? It sure sounds good to me.”

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©2013 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (BRP). All rights reserved. ®, ™ an BRP or its affiliates. Products are distributed in the USA by BRP USA, Inc. Always observe applicable laws. Remember that riding and alcohol/drugs don’t mix. 6106 can-am.brp.com

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by BRP USA, Inc. Always responsibly and safely observe applicable laws. Remember that riding and alcohol/drugs don’t mix. 610617 observe applicable laws. Remember that riding and alcohol/drugs don’t mix. 610617

Local Mobile founder Curt McLellan’s dreams of crowded Food Truck Fridays are coming true.

Tupelo’s newest food truck, Memphis Style BBQ on Wheels, started serving customers in late March. Days before that, the Two Dudes Mexican Foods truck debuted at the Tupelo Craft Beer Festival and started running the streets the next week.

“I thought I would open a restaurant after I retired until I talked to Curt last November in Fairpark and checked out his truck,” Two Dudes owner Eric Dufford said.

Dufford’s specialties include handmade tamales; fried, stuffed Vidalia onions; and homemade salsa. Memphis BBQ is dishing out barbecue sandwiches, ribs and nachos.

Both trucks post their upcoming locations to Facebook daily, and both have joined McLellan at Fairpark on Fridays.

Just a short drive to $avings in Downtown Hamilton, AL CREEK VILLAGE • SUITE F3 • TUPELO 499 GLOSTER

20/20 VISION CENTER 888-545-0345 662.350.3676

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April 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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photographed by Lisa Roberts

events Habitat for Humanity View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

Toyota Mississippi is working with the Northeast Mississippi chapter of Habitat for Humanity to build a home for a family in need.

Building started Feb. 22 and is expected to be completed by May. Toyota is fully funding the construction and providing all labor.

Irene Begonia, Scott Simons, Katina Williams and Regina Smith

Kenny Synder, Wesley Partin and John Temple

Doug Bailey and Mike Burgett

Mark Walker and Kenji Morishita

Chris Partin and Linda Tucker

John Raymer and Ed Begonia

Janet Burgett and Gus Hildenbrand

Marcus McCoy and Aaron Foster

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INVITATION TUPELO | April 2014

“Where kids are welcome and parents can tag along!”

* * * * * * A New Kids Shoe Store in Tupelo

Gloster Street, 662-350-3355 319Tupel1/2o, South MS 38801

IN & TANN

N G SALO

FA B U LO U S G I F T S , T R E N D Y C LO T H E S , & EXCELLENT TA N N I N G PA C K A G E S WITH NEW BULBS! Monday-Saturday 10:00 - 8:00

Yo u r f u l l l i ne mu s i c st ore.

662.842.1 530

662-869-1833 127 Town Creek • Saltillo, MS

10 -6 M o nd ay -S at u r d ay April 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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photographed by Lisa Roberts

events Amanda Price 5K View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

The Amanda Price 5K, 10K and half-mile fun run were held March 8 at New Albany Elementary School in memory of Price, who was killed in a home invasion in 2011. It benefited the Junior Auxiliary of New Albany Scholarship Fund and Survival Inc.

Carley Adams and Olivia Thompson

Sierra Mensing, Amanda Cutler, Alyssa Nash, Madison White, Mallory Rodgers and Montana Mensing

Charlotte and Todd Baldwyn

Stephanie Gregory with Amy and Olivia Holladay

Harrison and LeAnne Lewis with Darden and Debbie Price

Brittney Gregory and Kelly Hicks with Lisa and Gale Manning Ron and Molly Addison Price

Shane McGregor, Jennifer Bagwell and Nicole McCracken

www.BarkleyTravel.com

Windy City Adventure Tour Chicago (September 22-25, 2014)

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INVITATION TUPELO | April 2014

• 3 night’s accommodations in suburb of Chicago • Chicago Tour Guide • City Highlights tour • Lunch at the Walnut Room at Macy’s • Tour of Macy’s (formerly Marshall Fields) • Visit to Navy Pier • Admission to the John Hancock Observatory • Free time to shop along Michigan Avenue • “Gangster Tour” • Dinner & Show at Tommy Gun’s Garage • Lake Michigan • Architectural River Cruise • 3 Breakfasts • 2 Dinners at local restaurant in Chicago

141 West Bankhead St New Albany, MS 38652 Phone: 662-534-5203

New England Fall Foliage Tour (October 3-12, 2014)

• New York City • Broadway Play – Matinee • New Hampshire • Fall Foliage along the Kancamagus Highway • The Castle in the Clouds – Moultonborough NH • Long View County Store – Great New Hampshire products • Squam Lake Natural Science Center – Holderness NH • Boat Tours of Squam Lake • Two nights lodging at the Franconia Inn – Franconia NH • Maple Grove Maple Museum & Gift Shop in St. Johnsbury VT • The Shelburne Museum – Shelburne, VT • Roosevelt National Historic Sites • Springwood – Home of FDR & Presidential Library • Natural Bridge, VA - Creation Light Show • Chattanooga TN • 7 Breakfasts & 5 Dinners

821 S Gloster St Tupelo, MS 38801 (662) 842-7260

Mon - Sat 6 am – 8:30 pm Sun 7 am – 2 pm

Connie’s Chicken

Family owned & operated.

In business for over 37 years & voted Tupelo’s Best Fried Chicken.

313 A South Gloster •Tupelo, MS 662- 840-2414

Parish Wright

THE SHOE & BOOT OUTLET

1ST QUALITY NAME BRAND SHOES & BOOTS

662-842-4152 • Denton Plaza 357-B S. Gloster • Tupelo, Ms 38801

April 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

39

photographed by Lisa Roberts

events Run in Her Shoes View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

Tupelo Women’s Club hosted the Run in Her Shoes 5K and 1-mile fun run in heels March 29 at Fairpark to benefit Regional Rehab, Tupelo Lee Humane Society and the Down on Main summer concert series.

Courtney and Neel Dean

Amanda Brown, Lauren Davis, Lauren Darsey, Gracie Menetre, Kate Anderson, Jenny Lynn Bond and Morgan Abraham

Jay and Twana Miller

Charlie White, Trey Hankins, Julie Howell and Jacob Jordan

Lindsey Turner, Katherine Dendy and Kendall Wiley

Jett and Felicia Pollard, Leslie Hilliard, Kala Leathers and Molly Lovorn

Samantha Capers, Kim Lanphere and Cindy Bailey

Maria and Bobby Geno with Mallory Davidson

Karlee Avery, Jessica Hollinger and Carol Ann Padgett

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INVITATION TUPELO | April 2014

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

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

662-489-1074 346-A West Oxford St. Pontotoc, Ms Monday- Saturday 10a.m.-5p.m.

86 S. Thomas St. 662.620.1120

3425 W. Main St. Opening May 2014

901 S. Gloster St. Opening Soon

SHARE YOUR EXCITING NEWS WITH AN

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

New Fabrics Arriving Daily!

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 April 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

41

photographed by Lisa Roberts

events The Giving Gala View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

Tupelo Women’s Club held The Giving Gala March 29 at Link Centre. The annual silent auction benefits Regional Rehab, Tupelo Lee Humane Society, the Down on Main summer concert series and Link Centre.

Leigh Monroe, Laura Beth Walden and Amanda Brown

Tiara and Lorie Walker with Dorothy Moore

Brenda Estes and Gloria Holliday

Matt and Sara Beth McCarter

Jacquie and Jonathan McAlister

Courtney Kinney and Misty Rigby

Benjamin and Rhea-Anna Hopper

662.610.3705

Come see our new store in Fairpark!

111 East Troy Street Suite B • Tupelo, MS 38804

Tuesday - Friday 10-6, Saturday 10-4 42

INVITATION TUPELO | April 2014

•Women’s Apparel •Junior’s Contemporary Apparel

•Sizes XS-3X Available •Vintage Home Décor •Handmade Jewelry •Handbags •Gifts & Accessories

Chasity Dees Photography

662-844-2477 431 North Gloster St. Tupelo, MS www.shearenvytupelo.com

Mon-Thurs 9-6, Fri-Sat 9-7 2107 S. Harper Road Corinth, MS 38834

662.284.9468 April 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

43

photographed by Chasity Dees

events Tupelo Craft Beer Festival View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

The second-annual Tupelo Craft Beer Festival was held March 22 at Fairpark. The event, presented by Rhizome Productions, featured beer samples from more than 20 breweries, including six Mississippi breweries; live music; and food from local restaurants.

Paul Hotard, Mary Wilson, Garrett Marshall and Joseph Young

Adriane Purvis with Jason and Tracy Taylor

Jay and Teresa Mackey

Michael Thomas and Dayton Cooper

Arrisha and Christopher Sampson

Dalton Healy and Nathan Weber

Whitney Gentry-Waters and Vicky Gish

Ross Weems and Jordan Jagger

Annelle Jones and Mike Griffin

Andy Curry, Cody Crawford and Mary Beth Hunter

44

INVITATION TUPELO | April 2014

In-Home Senior Care Services

Free in-home assessments (662) 841-8477 Personal Care services • Bathing, grooming and hygiene • Mobility assistance • Transferring and positioning • Toileting and incontinence • Feeding and special diet

Companionship services • Companionship • Incidental transportation services • Medication reminders • Meal preparation • Errand services • Grocery shopping • Grooming • Light housekeeping • 24-hour care • Respite care or relief for family

www.ComfortKeepers.com An international network of independently owned and operated offices © 2009 CK Franchising, Inc.

April 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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INVITATION TUPELO | April 2014

April 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

47

FLOORING & INTERIORS

2715 Hwy 145 South Saltillo, MS • 869-3545

48

INVITATION TUPELO | April 2014

The Art of it All

Northeast Mississippi’s familiar landscape, Southern folklore, supportive communities and storied traditions are among the things that inspire these artists to create every day.

by Emily Gatlin

photographed by Joe Worthem

“Mississippi is like a Deep South soup: a delicious blending of creative ingredients and lots of spice. It’s loaded with eccentric people and old traditions. We’ve got the Hills, the Delta and the Coast – each with their own beauty, culture and artistic flavor. Growing up in Mississippi is bound to affect an artist.

There’s just no way around it.”

– Lucia Randle Harrison Artwork by Mississippi artists (clockwise from top) Lucia Randle Harrison, Charlie Buckley, Helene Fielder, Brent Farrar and Dot Courson reflects the inspiration they find in the people and places around them.

April 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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Charlie Buckley’s landscapes reflect scenes that he grew up with and feels compelled to put on canvas. Support from the people of Mississippi, he said, has allowed him to have a career as an artist.

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INVITATION TUPELO | April 2014

Charlie Buckley As the son of Methodist ministers, Charlie Buckley lived all over Mississippi before attending the University of Mississippi in 2000.

“My paintings depict both the urban and rural scenes that define our geography,” Buckley said, “but not because our land is overwhelmingly fascinating. I attempt to paint the land I grew up with. When I travel I’m always asked if I’ve found inspiration to paint those far-flung places, but I’ve never felt comfortable working with foreign landscapes. I have a cultural bond with our land, and I feel compelled to transfer that to canvas.”

After he received a Master of Fine Arts degree from Miami University in Ohio, Buckley and his wife moved to Tupelo; she became a teacher at Tupelo High School, and he took an adjunct-professor position at Mississippi State University. He has been painting full time for four years now, which he credits to the people of Mississippi.

“My artist friends around the country are continually surprised with the support that Mississippi gives its artists,” Buckley said.

“My career would not be possible without Mississippi. I’ve learned and taught at our state’s universities, have been commissioned by people and represented by galleries throughout the state.”

Buckley said his favorite piece of art is always the one he is creating, but he does have a painting he is most proud of. “In graduate school, I created a 30-foot painting that catalogued every day of my life. It depicts all the towns and cities I have lived in, every major life change. And like most things that I think are great, it’s sitting in my basement.”

•

662.489.4741 14 East Marion Street, Pontotoc, MS 38863

April 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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Helene Fielder’s childhood in Europe influences much of her intricate ceramic art, and her functional pieces, including jewelry, mugs and teapots, are further inspired by the people she imagines using them.

52

INVITATION TUPELO | April 2014

Helene Fielder Helene Fielder’s childhood summers spent fishing and wading on the coastal Slovenian waters of the Adriatic Sea had a profound influence on her work as a ceramic artist.

“I love all color and enjoy observing forms,” Fielder said. “I’ve always been one of those people who has to pick up every shell on a beach or on a road, and the textures and patterns I see are reflected in my latest works. I even found a stone in Mississippi I call Mississippi Peanut Brickle Stone.”

While most of Fielder’s recent works are focused on a divergence from convention and tradition, she still enjoys making functional pottery, and it is inspired by the people she imagines using it.

“Just the very idea that a mug I make might become someone’s favorite electrifies and thrills me to no end. When I think my mug could be the one they bring to the front porch to contemplate their day, and perhaps even their own creations, I’m like a pig rolling in heaven’s mud.”

Fielder also has an affinity for teapots and likes to create all different types. “They are steeped in history, and while comprised of a common set of elements – a spout, handle and lid – there is a seemingly endless number of forms they can take,” she said. “Teapots are reminiscent of people, ever-changing and full with character and movement.”

April 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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Lucia Randle Harrison repurposes found objects and old photographs and combines them with paint and pencil for her mixed-media collages.

She is also known for her whimsical Oddit series of characters.

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INVITATION TUPELO | April 2014

The Creative Touch Day Spa & Salon Lucia Randle Harrison Fulton, Miss., native Lucia Randle Harrison finds inspiration for her art in the people of north Mississippi. “You’ve heard the old saying ‘only in Mississippi,’ ” Harrison said. “That is so true – and it’s this eclectic mix of diverse people who create a plethora of imagination and inspiration for me. I collect interesting people, and Mississippi’s full of them. The more I collect, the more insight and inspiration is given to me for my work.”

Harrison has lived in north Mississippi most of her life and has considered herself an artist since she was a child. “I was encouraged by my parents, and I believed I could have painted the Sistine Chapel had I been born sooner,” she said. “Time eventually told me this wasn’t the case, but I aspire to do the best work I can.”

She is constantly adding to her popular Oddit series of whimsical characters, and her latest work of mixed-media collages blends vintage photographs with paint and pencil on canvas. One of her favorite pieces, Inez and Lily Dreamed, uses a picture of two little girls that was taken at the Tupelo Cotton Mills in the early 1900s by photographer Lewis Hine, who was documenting child labor practices in the United States. She plans to do more work using Hine’s images of children.

“I’m intrigued with anything vintage, old and dusty,” Harrison said. “Repurposing found objects and old photographs into something interesting and enchanting is right up my alley.”

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www.creativetouchtupelo.com 2613-A Tracewood Dr., Tupelo, MS 38801 • 662.844.3734

April 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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Brent Farrar is perhaps best known for his Elvis Presley-inspired watercolors. In addition to creating the artwork for the 2013 and 2014 Elvis Festivals, Farrar’s artwork has been used to promote the Down on Main summer concert series, Tupelo Community Theatre, the Junior Auxiliary’s Charity Ball and more.

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INVITATION TUPELO | April 2014

Brent Farrar Watercolor artist Brent Farrar finds inspiration all over north Mississippi.

“I always find myself painting something that I think would inspire other people or something that has inspired me,” Farrar said.

“Whether it’s the landscape, the architecture or a combination of both, I am always drawn to those areas because of my background in landscape architecture. I like to think I notice the simple beauty in a lot of things that most people look at every day.”

The Fulton native attended Mississippi State University for a degree in landscape architecture, and he took watercolor painting as an elective his senior year. The class, taught by Brent Funderburk, changed his life. “[Funderburk] is so involved in almost every piece I do,” Farrar said. “He provides feedback but mostly inspiration. I never want to let him down.”

Farrar’s paintings are tied to Tupelo. His watercolors have served as the art for the Down on Main concert series, Tupelo Community Theatre posters, the Junior Auxiliary’s Charity Ball and the Elvis Festival.

“I am obviously drawn to Elvis and everything about him,” Farrar said. “He has such a following and a fan base that people literally crave different pieces of art based upon him. I would say that I am most proud of my last Elvis Presley painting, EP. A lot of heart and soul went into that piece. And I typically don’t do faces, so when people told me how much they enjoyed it, I got a lot of satisfaction from it.”

Prentiss Street Baldwyn, MS 662.365.8087

Prentiss Street Baldwyn, MS 662.365.9876

April 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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Dot Courson’s paintings are distinctly Mississippi, and their familiar beauty resonates with others. Her landscape The Natchez Trace now hangs in the U.S. Capitol building behind Sen. Roger Wicker’s desk. This summer she will travel to Europe to share her talent with others.

58

INVITATION TUPELO | April 2014

Dot Courson Dot Courson spent her childhood living in foster homes. Although art had always been important to her, she went to school to become a nurse. “I did not have the confidence or support to just go into art, as I had to have something solid to live on,” Courson said.

She received an advanced degree in nursing and taught a registered nurse program at Itawamba Community College. While teaching, Courson continued to paint in her spare time, and her work was discovered by Staggs Interiors.

“I love Southern scenery,” she said. “I love to paint everyday scenes that are meaningful to me and our Mississippi heritage.” Her painting The Natchez Trace hung for two years in the Walter Sillers Building foyer area in the state capital, and it now hangs in Washington, D.C., behind Sen. Roger Wicker’s desk in the U.S. Capitol building.

In 2008, Courson and her daughter, artist Susan Patton, were asked by the Mississippi Development Authority’s tourism division to represent the state’s artists at the media reception for the presidential debate in Oxford. She will spend two weeks this summer in Ireland for Europe’s largest plein air festival, where she has been invited to teach, paint and exhibit her work. But her favorite place to create is at home.

“This community is wonderful,” she said.

“Having relationships with collectors makes the art more special for both the artist and the collectors, the creating of the art and the enjoyment of the art as well. Meeting collectors and getting feedback fuels my creative fire.”

April 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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photographed by Chasity Dees

events Walk MS

View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

Walk MS took place March 29 at Fairpark. The walk raises money for the National MS Society, an organization dedicated to helping people affected by multiple sclerosis.

Mayor Jason Shelton and Jan Bell

Tom Connally, Chad White, Jason O’Connor and Len Blanton

Jessica Albert and Emily Laubhan

Ali Marquis and Kristen Gordon

Sam Maxcy and Megan Collins

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INVITATION TUPELO | April 2014

Misty, Gracie and Chris Haire

Madison Collins and Alyssa Dees

Tickets on sale March 31st

Dancing ing K e h t with 6, 2014 April 2 ol le S c h o d d i M T u p e lo

ENJOY WATCHING AMATEUR & PROFESSIONAL DANCERS PERFORM TO ELVIS MUSIC.

“For The Neatest Yard Around” If you can dream it, we can create it, or we can even dream it for you.

662.844.6539

www.sportsmanlawn.com

* Amateur Competitions 2-5 pm * Rock N Roll Band 7-11 pm * Exhibitions & Pro Competition 8-9 pm Tickets only $25 per person Available at Busylad Keep It Casual Sprint Print The Dance Studio Via phone Sanctioned by The City of Tupelo.

A special project of the Create Foundation.

Sponsored by the Tupelo Ballroom Dance Club.

Supported by a grant from the Tupelo Convention and Visitor’s Bureau.

Tupelo #dancetuplelo

www.dancingwiththeking.com 662-213-0504 April 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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photographed by Lisa Roberts

events Tupelo Ballet Presents Les Sylphides View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

Tupelo Ballet presented Les Sylphides – a ballet featuring a poet surrounded by a drifting chorus of sylphs – followed by contemporary repertory pieces, March 22 at Tupelo Civic Auditorium.

Rachel Talton, Amber Claire Huddleston, Rachel Hicks, Rachael Malone, Mary Payne Dillard and McKenzie Denton

Lindsay Fine and Sharon Long

Amy, Mike and Amelia Webb

Anna Ballard, Zoe Windham and Carley Cole

Carrie and Amy Haadsma

Teresa Ellis and Kelly Anderson

Shianne Wold, Kalyn Lake, Cara Elizabeth Smart, Hannah Faith Cox, Ellen McGregor and Anna-Kirk Presley

62

INVITATION TUPELO | April 2014

Alyssa and Andrea Brohawn with Massie Eckard, Rebecca Talton and Abby Curl

Alivia Roberts, Mike Fothergill and Emory Hamblin

Isabella Webb, Brooke Mcauley, Anna Calhoun, Emily Anderson, Emme Riley and Caiti Ellis

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Men & Women Welcome!

900 Earl Frye Blvd Suite A Amory, Mississippi 38821 Phone: (662) 256-9331 ext. 207 Fax: (662) 256-9335 Hours: Mon - Fri, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Look for us on Facebook

w w w. p a n d s c l i n i c . c o m April 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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events Cheer Competition View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

Cheer and dance teams from around the state traveled to Tupelo to compete in the Victory Athletics Spirit (VAS) Cheer and Dance Championships, held March 22 at BancorpSouth Arena. The competition will return to BancorpSouth Arena March 21, 2015.

Lona Rowland and Sophia Owens

Jennifer Mulrooney, Kari Hooker, Chloe Greenhill, Lynly Hooker, Riley Mulrooney, Kylie Luken and Allie Burrow

Ally Scott and Abby Martin

Denver Owens and Demi Lindsey

Brandy Mauney and Morgan Hamlin

Callie and Garrett Crain

Paris Parks and Chassity Mason

Crystal and Alyson Clark

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INVITATION TUPELO | April 2014

Angela Mainor and Lelia Sizemore

Baylee Turner with Ally and Amy Melton

Brandi and Celena Wyatt

Brandon and Beverly Knight with Jace Mauldin

Laken Cummings, Zoe Lovern, Anna Caryl Justice, Zalairyah Gilbert and Joel Harden

photographed by Kristi Sizemore

Carly, Alice and Catherine Scruggs

www.themagnolias.org

available for weddings, receptions, & special events tours : m.onday through friday www themagnolias .org 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

available for weddings, receptions, & special events tours: monday through friday 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Kilie Edwards and Lindsey Scott

Sadie Morris and Jaycee Hawkes April 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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out and about JOHN BERRY CONCERT

Judd Wilson, John Berry and Linda Kinsey

JOGGING FOR THE JUNGLE

Gayle Kinsey (front), Judy Williams, Ann Godwin, Mary Jane Barnett and Holly Temple

Haylee Fowler, Teresa Thomas, Calin Rawson, Hilary Rawson Whitehorn, Lindsey Hines and Dillan Rawson

GILMORE MEMORIAL LADY IN RED LUNCHEON

NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI ART ASSOCIATION

Tommy Gann, Lorie Bryant, Lisa Mason, Courtney Belcher, Kristen Edwards, Regina Lann and Kyle Reeves

Alfred Jones, Joyce Vincent and Kay Morgan

NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI ART ASSOCIATION

Janet Martin, Rose Brooks and John Q. Bailey

TEA FOR T’ARTS WITH MISSISSIPPI JANE AUSTEN SOCIETY

Dee Hare, Oneta Cole, Dana Tate Bailey and Jessi Bailey

Olivia Wilbanks and Anna Kate Minyard

Lillie Faith, Brian, Cade and Cindy Childs

Anna, Halle and Shannon Wildmon

TUPELO MIRACLE MAKER BLAST

Kristen Furr, Makel Hutchins, Lacey Reed and Sydney Duggar

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INVITATION TUPELO | April 2014

NMMC PRETTY IN PINK LUNCHEON

Carol Bearden and Leigh Ann Foster

Liz Dawson and Lisa Diallo

JEFFERSON AWARDS

Polly and Joel Bailey with Luke and Brandy Stanford

Cathie, Charity and Larry Ferguson with Lisa Westmoreland and Chastity Grisham

April 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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IN SEASON Eggs

by Melanie Crownover photographed by Lisa Roberts

S

herrie Cochran never envisioned playing mother hen while growing up in Detroit.

Thirteen years after moving south, she’s embracing the country via her downtown Tupelo backyard.

Each evening, Cochran’s hens respond to her melodious call of “chicky, chicky” by strutting to the door of the chain-link fence surrounding their coop. The crossbred Black Sussex and Rhode Island Red chickens, affectionately known as Gladys Knight and the Pips, make way for their owner to enter and follow her across the yard for a mealworm treat.

Then they get 30 minutes of free-range time.

“This started out about the eggs, but it’s more than that now,” Cochran said, holding one hen in her arms to stroke its breast feathers.

“If you treat them like pets, they act like pets.”

Cochran was excited when she found out four years ago that Tupelo zoning laws allow for raising chickens within city limits. As environmental planner for the city, Cochran knew bringing her love for animals home to roost could influence more than just her diet.

“These are some hard-working girls,” she said. “I take them to neighborhood association meetings and the community garden learning series to help teach people how to start out as chicken parents and how to best care for them in this setting. The public interest has really grown over the past several years.”

Cochran ordered her first six chicks from backyardchickens.com in 2010, and she taught herself chicken-rearing skills, from building a movable “tractor coop” to protecting the hens from common predators.

This brood has been together for two years.

In addition to their work in public education, her chickens also provide more than five brown eggs per day during the summer. Cochran trades many of those eggs for neighbors’ homegrown tomatoes and other produce, but the rest find their way into the family’s daily meals.

Cochran’s cute deviled eggs make a fun dish for an Easter brunch.

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Deviled Egg Peeps 1 dozen eggs, hard-boiled and cooled ½ cup mayonnaise 6 green olives with pimiento, diced 1 teaspoon garlic powder ¼ teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon pepper 1/8 teaspoon prepared yellow mustard 24 whole peppercorns 12 carrot slices Peel eggs. Cut one-third of egg at the small end to expose yolk. Cut the large end of egg to flatten bottom. Remove yolks, and place in mixing bowl. Add mayonnaise, green olives, garlic powder, salt, pepper and mustard to yolks. Blend until mixture is smooth. Arrange egg bottoms on a bed of lettuce. Place yolk mixture in a zip-top plastic bag, and cut one corner to release mixture. Pipe egg mixture into egg bottoms, overfilling slightly. Place two peppercorns in each egg for eyes. Cut carrot slices into small triangles, and use for beaks. Replace top of egg to form head.

Endocrine & Metabolic Disorders Institue, PLLC Jayant Dey, M.D., M.B.B.S. • Nancy Hooks, C.N.P. 910 Mary Vance Drive • Tupelo, Mississippi 38801

Phone:

662.377.6275 Fax: 662.377.6299 April 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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PETS of the Month

There are lots of ways to help the Tupelo-Lee Humane Society (TLHS). Rosi, Summer, Ariel and Benji, as well as dozens of other animals, are ready to be adopted. Go see them at 2400 S. Gloster St., or visit tupeloleehumane.org to make a donation.

SUMMER

PHOTOGRAPHED BY LISA ROBERTS

ROSI

ARIEL

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BENJI

• Free local delivery • Fresh cut flowers for all occasions • 5 exclusive pottery lines • Bridal registry • Ronaldo jewelry

408 Washington Street, Booneville, MS 38829

662.728.4788

M-F 9-6 • Sat 9-2 April 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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The new Tupelo Aquatic Center has something for everyone.

by Melanie Crownover

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photographed by Joe Worthem

The more than 43,000-square-foot Tupelo Aquatic Center features two pools, diving boards, a rock-climbing wall, a sun deck and a multipurpose room for special events. Patrons visit for open swim time, fitness classes, lap swimming, community events and competitive swim meets.

C

lifford Wilson gets a personal greeting from the desk clerk as he scans his Splash Pass to sign into the Tupelo Aquatic Center.

The staff should know his name. The 79-yearold is a fixture at the competitive pool he visits five mornings a week.

“When we came here a year ago to be close to family, I didn’t know where I could go,” said Wilson, who moved to Tupelo from Texas. “I finally found out about Joyner Pool, but I didn’t swim as much there because the lane time was so restricted. I put in 27,000 yards here in January after I joined and another

32,000 in February. This center didn’t affect my decision to move here, but it’s certainly a plus that makes me want to stay.”

Wilson isn’t the only regular making good use of the aquatic center since the December grand opening. The staff sold more than 500 passes in the past three months, many of the site’s water aerobics classes are almost at capacity, and the multipurpose room for special events is already booked a month in advance.

Every day, between 300 and 400 swimmers come through the doors.

But those aren’t the numbers director Amy

Kennedy focuses on when she comes to work.

“You wouldn’t believe how many members I’ve had come to my office with reports from their doctors about how much their health has already improved since they started swimming here,” she said. “And we’ve not been open that long. To be able to be part of that kind of change is an amazing thing.”

The variety of indoor offerings usually brings swimmers to the center to test the waters. The site boasts of the competitive pool that Wilson visits as well as a warmer recreational pool. Between the two, there’s April 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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“I put in 27,000 yards here in January after I joined and another 32,000 in February. This center didn’t affect my decision to move here, but it’s certainly a plus that makes me want to stay.” -Clifford Wilson

Tupelo Aquatic Center officially opened in December and hosted a Mississippi Swimming Inc. regional swim meet in March. Director Amy Kennedy (pictured above) and the staff are now preparing for perhaps their biggest challenge yet: the busy summer season. Extended hours for recreational swimming will help accommodate the summer rush.

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Where the best is affordable

Clifford Wilson is a regular at Tupelo Aquatic Center, where he swims laps five mornings a week.

something to do for everyone.

Two diving boards, a rock-climbing wall and a sun deck attract the family crowd. Classes such as Aqua Zumba and kickboxing bring in the health-conscious. Special lane times for competitive swim, paddleboarding and kayaking accommodate the athletes. Special events, including the recent Underwater Easter Egg Hunt and lessons for beginner to advanced swimmers, bring the rest.

The more than 43,000-square-foot facility has even impressed some semipro swimmers.

Tupelo High School’s 200-member Shockwave swim team holds office space at the center and practices in the competitive pool every weekday. The team placed second in the Mississippi Swimming Inc. Short Course Competition they hosted at the aquatic center in March.

Just booking the regional swim meet, which is traditionally held at Delta State University, was a milestone for the facility.

“We heard nothing but compliments from the people who came out for the competition,” Kennedy said. “In fact, there was a lot of talk about how they doubted it would ever move back to the college after coming here.”

Boosted by those positive reviews, the staff is now preparing for an even bigger challenge than the center’s opening months: the summer rush. Kennedy plans to accommodate vacationing school children and families with extended recreational swim hours from 1 to 6 p.m. Thursday through Sunday.

“I have no doubt there will be enough room for everyone here, even this summer,” Wilson said. “I’ll definitely be here.”

Tupelo, MS. 308 South Spring Street 662.842.4061 www.kirkseybrothers.com

April 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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BancorpSouth Arena marks its 20th year with big-name bookings and sold-out shows.

by Melanie Crownover photographed by Lisa Roberts

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Star performers grace the stage at BancorpSouth Arena in its early years. Clockwise from top left, ZZ Top in 1994; Bill Cosby in 1993; Elton John in 1998; Tammy Wynette with George Jones in 1995; and James Taylor in 1994. In celebration of the arena’s 20th anniversary, Elton John performed again March 19, and Bill Cosby will return May 10.

April 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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The pictures decorating the halls of BancorpSouth Arena’s administrative offices serve as a scrapbook memorializing years of A-list entertainment.

Red carpet-worthy musicians smile from the frames: Reba McEntire, Van Halen, ZZ Top, Rod Stewart, Boyz II Men, Carrie Underwood, Aerosmith and more. The big names are only a small part of what the arena brings to Tupelo, but they’ve been pivotal in its success.

“When this plan was hatched, there were a lot of doubters who said this place could never have the impact it’s had on this community and draw the big artists,” Executive Director Todd Hunt said. “We’ve landed some top-notch acts.”

Getting those household names hasn’t gotten easier over the years, as the concert industry has changed with the times. There are more arenas, and they are bigger. Artists expect a much larger fee to play, and they play fewer dates in the United States than before.

Still, BancorpSouth has a long list of repeat performers. Most of the acts that come back credit it to the reception they receive. Country stars Kenny Chesney and Jason Aldean both sold out the arena in recent years, Chesney three times in a row and Aldean twice.

“Places like Birmingham or Memphis hold 150,000 plus, and we still top out at 9,000 seats, so for us it’s hard work to keep it coming,” Hunt said. “We try to develop real relationships with the acts, promoters and managers to make this their home office when they’re with us, and the crowd always goes out of their way to make them know how much we appreciate them coming.”

Superstar musicians alone wouldn’t be enough to keep the arena thriving long-term.

While entertainment event numbers were fairly static for two decades, BancorpSouth Arena amplified itself in other areas. Diversity became the code word. Music billings changed from primarily country and classic rock to a wide variety of styles, from R&B to contemporary Christian. The arena used Bill Cosby’s success as a first-year performer to draw popular comedians such as Jeff Dunham and Larry the Cable Guy. Family and sports programs, including Disney on Ice, Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus and WWE wrestling, became mainstays.

The arena also branched out with convention center reservations.

Convention bookings totaled 128,850 last year, an increase of around 600 percent from first-year totals.

“The big names make my job a lot easier,” Marketing Director Kevan Kirkpatrick said. “But that entertainment affects more than just the At left, Reba McEntire and Rod Stewart, both in 1994, on the BancorpSouth stage.

Opposite page, Executive Director Todd Hunt helps bring in the big acts, and he said good old Southern hospitality has drawn many back for repeat performances.

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audience. Every time we fill this arena, the area economy feels it at the gas stations, restaurants, retail shops and hotels. For a town this size to have shows like this coming in on a regular basis makes it a better place to live and visit. Enhancing that quality of life is part of our mission.”

The BancorpSouth Arena team worked overtime to make this anniversary year special for the city. Hunt brought in returning headliners Cosby and Elton John, booked the reunited Backstreet Boys, signed Rock and Roll Hall of Famer John Fogerty, and joined the forces of local musicians Paul Thorn and Mac McAnally. Those are just a few highlights.

By March, the anniversary year was already a record-breaker. The Florida Georgia Line concert in February set a record for the most tickets

sold at a country concert on site. Weeks later the Harlem Globetrotters, Monster Jam and Winter Jam shows collectively attracted the most people ever to attend events within a four-day span.

With record attendance set last year, now all eyes are on the anniversary year’s bottom line. But this crew is used to setting bigger goals for each gig.

“Looking ahead, we have a great lineup of summer events and time to put the house back in order after all these big shows to finish the year strong,” Hunt said. “We’re already working on our calendar for the fall so we can continue to bring the good stuff to north Mississippi, and we certainly don’t mind breaking a record or two while we’re at it.”

April 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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TUPELO SPIRIT Jerry Webb Jerry Webb has been dusting crops on northeast Mississippi farmland for 40 years as owner of Webb’s Flying Service Inc. This planting season, he’s turning over the controls as he retires.

Q: Did you always want to be a crop duster?

A: I lived a couple of miles from the airport as a child and was fascinated with the planes that flew overhead. When I learned [to fly] in my early 20s, I knew I wanted to dust crops.

That’s active flying instead of just going from point A to point B. It’s a lot more exciting.

Q: Was there any special training?

A: There is now, but not then. I bought a $10,000 plane after I learned to fly and taught myself most of it practicing with spray water over fields. I was lucky I didn’t kill myself.

Q: How fast and low do you actually go?

A: I’m usually running about 160 miles per hour with my wheels 5 to 10 feet above the crops. You definitely have to pull up fast to dodge the trees.

Q: What is needed to be a good crop duster?

A: You have to have a feel for the plane like you’re wearing it or it’s part of you. That’s how you know what you can and can’t get away with up there.

Q: Is it a dying profession?

A: It’s changing. There’s competition from ground spraying rigs, and urbanization has hurt, but the demand for fire bombing in forest fires has gone up. There’s only 150 of us in the state, and in the hills outside the Delta there’s only three or four left.

Q: Will you still be flying after retirement?

A: Oh, yeah. I’ve got another plane I go to see my grandkids in in Jackson, Miss., so I’ll still be up there. interviewed by Melanie Crownover photographed by Lisa Roberts

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