InvitationTupelo_Nov2013

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november 2013

American Indian

heritage

+ A family of eagle scouts + the clydesdales are coming

Northeast Mississippi Real Estate Guide 3070 Orchid Circle

Fabulous custom built European style lakefront home featuring custom gunite pool, pool house with fireplace & cooking center, hot tub, 4 garages with porte-cochere, putting green, 3 verandas, playground area, dock, 3 living areas, billiard room, media room plus office, fireplace in master suite. Storm cellar in garage. See the virtual tour at tmhomes.com. MLS# 13-2985.

Brenda Spencer

Call Brenda Spencer today for your private viewing. 662-231-8909 mobile • 662-842-3844 office spencer@tmhomes.com • 210 E. Main St., Downtown Tupelo

KEVIN KNIGHT

With just over 80 listings, 42 transactions, and $5,000,000 in sales, I have to admit that my first year in Real Estate has been UNREAL. Special thanks to the families that have trusted me in selling their home and/or finding them the perfect home. I’ve shared many laughs, even a few tears, and have made many new friends - nothing in my life has been this rewarding. Here’s to many more!

662-401-2913 mobile | 662-842-3844 office kevin@tmhomes.com | 210 E. Main St., Downtown Tupelo

Let Mark help you find the right property to grow your business. 1101-1103 Denmill Road, New Albany 200,000 SF - 2 BLDGs MFG, DIST, WHSE, & Offices MLS# 13-2029

212 Main Street, Tupelo

4,400 SF - 2 commercial spaces on 2nd floor & 2 loft condos on 3rd floor MLS# 13-1202

1845 Coley Road, Tupelo 31,100 SF -Showroom/ warehouse & office space. Fully heated & cooled. MLS# 13-2554

For more information on these or ANY commercial property, please contact Mark Prince 662-871-1971 mobile • 662-842-3844 office • mark@tmhomes.com • 210 E. Main St., Downtown Tupelo

119 Executive Drive, Saltillo

7,350 SF - 3,000 Showroom, 4,000 Warehouse & 350 Office space MLS# 13-1875

A Must See! CHANDA COSSITT

Wonderfully redone home in North Tupelo on a very private two acre lot. 4 or 5 bedrooms, 3 full baths, 2 half baths, gunite pool, great outdoor space and an additional 1000 sq ft basement that is not included in the 5,600 sq ft. $799,000 MLS# 13-2871

662-871-7222 mobile • 662-842-3844 office • chanda@tmhomes.com • 210 E. Main St., Downtown Tupelo

810 Oak Grove Road

1018 Cottonwood Lane

BEA LUCKETT

662-231-1402 • bealuckett@trirealestate.net

662-842-8283 • www.trirealestate.net 600 W Main, Tupelo, MS

Colonial home in historic Highland Circle on 3.5 secluded acres.

Traditional with Southwest Accents! Custom built, one owner home with 5 plus acres and lake.

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2013

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In this issue

NOVEMBER 2013

features 28 Earning Their Wings

American Indian

HERITAGE

+ A FAMILY OF EAGLE SCOUTS + THE CLYDESDALES ARE COMING

november 2013

Boy Scouting is a family tradition for the Smallwoods, who count several generations of Eagle Scouts.

52 Christmas with the Clydesdales The famous Budweiser Clydesdale horses will be part of the Dec. 10 Tupelo Christmas Parade, which moves to nighttime this year.

59 Forever in Blue Jeans

North Mississippi-based Blue Delta Jean Company crafts denim that is custom-made and homegrown.

EVENTS

34 The Homeland

Chief Billy Dancing Moon Miller is among many who are drawn to the Tupelo area for the American Indian heritage and culture that are still very much alive here.

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2013

16

Walk to End Alzheimer’s

18

Hops & Stops Beer Tasting

20

Chili Festival

24

THS’s 100th Anniversary

26

Great Strides Walk

42

Halloween at Ballard Park

44

John Fogerty Concert

46

Miss Lee County Pageant

48

Celebration Village

50

Race for the Cure

64

Masquerade Bash

66

Week of the Family

68

Forged Games

Creating Beautiful

Smiles

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68 DEPARTMENTS 10 Letter From the Publisher 14 What’s Happening 70 Out and About 76 Pets of the Month 78 In Season 80 Tupelo Spirit November 2013 | INVITATION TUPELO

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Letter froM

the publisher I

am thankful. When I was in the eighth grade I knew I wanted a career in journalism. Five years later I arrived as a freshman at the University of Mississippi, and I had not changed my mind. Journalism was my major, thanks to the encouragement of teachers and classmates. I knew each day when I entered class that was exactly where I wanted to be. I was one of the lucky ones who knew from an early age what direction I would choose as a career path. I am grateful for teachers and others who continue to help guide me professionally. This month, you’ll meet the Smallwood family, four generations of leaders who have taught lessons outside of a traditional classroom. Through involvement with the Boy Scouts of America, the Smallwoods have taught young men about honesty, loyalty and hard work. I am grateful for families like this one who not only teach their own children but also teach others’. This time of year I’m often reminded about gratitude. There are many folks in need who come to mind. They don’t have food to put on their tables or coats to put on their backs. Others don’t have roofs over their heads. That was the case for Marie Parker, whom you will find ringing a bell for the Salvation Army. Once homeless, she didn’t let her circumstances dictate her future. She is now an integral part of the Salvation Army right here in Tupelo. And she’s helping others who find themselves without basic necessities. My family and I take the needs of others seriously. We do what we can to help. I hope you will also consider giving to the Salvation Army or another charity this holiday season. During this season of thanks, I pause to say I am thankful for what I have, and I am grateful to those who help others in need.

Rachel M. West, PublISher

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2013

PUBLISHER Rachel Malone West EDITOR Phil West 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 CONTRIBUTORS Faith Riley Dawson, Elizabeth Ferrell, Caroline Beffa Franks, Mabus Photography, Arlene Beard Norton, Kristi Sizemore, Shea Summers, Mike Weeks DIRECTOR OF ADVERTISING Cindy Semmes AD DESIGN Becca Bailey, Paul Gandy, Zach Fields ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS Trey Alexander, Alise M. Emerson, Sheena Hagemann, Leigh Lowery, Lynn McElreath, Mary Moreton, Moni Simpson OFFICE MANAGER Hollie Hilliard COPY EDITOR Kate Johnson SOCIAL MEDIA & EVENTS COORDINATOR Tarah Wiley DISTRIBUTION Donald Courtney Advertising Information (662) 701-8070 ads@invitationtupelo.com To subscribe to one year (10 issues) of Invitation Tupelo, send payment of $50 to: P.O. Box 3192, Tupelo, MS 38802 or visit invitationtupelo.com to pay online. To purchase event photographs shot by Invitation Tupelo or to request a photographer at your event, email Tarah at tarahmwiley@gmail.com.

please recycle this magazine

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November 2013 | INVITATION TUPELO

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WHAT’S HAPPENING November 15-December 15

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

special events Now through November 30

holiday happenings November 15-16

December 2

American Indian Heritage Month Exhibit

North Pontotoc Elementary Christmas Bazaar

Christmas Lighting of Ballard Park

Celebrate American Indian Heritage Month at the Natchez Trace Parkway with a photo exhibit featuring National Parks across the country that honor and preserve American Indian heritage and culture. Natchez Trace Parkway Visitor Center at milepost 266, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Local vendors will sell arts and crafts and baked goods at this holiday bazaar put on by North Pontotoc Elementary’s PTO. There will be a “Little Elves” area for children to play, make crafts and have photos made with Santa. The elementary art department will be featured, and the music department will share a program. 8324 Highway 15 N. Ecru, Miss. Friday, 6-9 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

The annual event showcases local choirs and winners of the “What the Holidays Mean to Me” essay contest, open to children in grades 2-5. The winners will flip the switch to light up the park. Ballard Park, 6 p.m.

November 16 Shakerag Half Marathon The third-annual Shakerag Half Marathon benefits Regional Rehab Center. The race starts and finishes in downtown Tupelo, ending with a post-race party. The race is limited to the first 300 participants. Registration $55.

November 16 Tupelo Arts Showcase Through this event, local artists bring awareness to the great variety of art that the Tupelo area has to offer. Musicians, singers, dancers and painters will share what they do best. Link Centre, 7 p.m.

November 21-24 Disney on Ice: Princesses and Heroes Disney on Ice: Princesses and Heroes, a production that includes America’s favorite princesses, comes to Tupelo. Tickets $45, $35, $25 and $17. BancorpSouth Arena.

December 14 Tupelo Aquatic Club Grand Opening The grand opening will allow the public to learn about classes and other offerings at the new aquatic center. The facility will have two pools, and admission will be $3 per person daily.

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2013

November 23 Red Green Market The fourth-annual Red Green Market, hosted by Crossroads Museum in Corinth, is a holiday-themed market that features thousands of handmade items by local artisans. The event will also include freshcut Christmas trees, photos with Santa, live music and food. Corinth Depot, 221 N. Fillmore St., Corinth, Miss.; 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

November 23 Chanukah and Thanksgiving Storytime Children are invited to a holiday-themed storytime. Barnes & Noble Booksellers at The Mall at Barnes Crossing, 2 p.m.

November 24 Downtown Merchants Open House Participating downtown Tupelo businesses will be open noon-5 p.m. for shoppers to get an early start on Christmas shopping.

December 10 Reed’s Tupelo Christmas Parade The 65th-annual Reed’s Christmas Parade will include the world-famous Budweiser Clydesdales. This year’s parade will feature floats with the theme “’Twas the Night Before Christmas,” inspired by the change to a nighttime parade. Downtown Tupelo, 6:30 p.m.

December 13 ACNM Annual Gala The nonprofit Autism Center of North Mississippi’s fifth-annual holiday gala features live music, heavy hors d’oeuvres, a silent auction and a cash bar. Elkin Place, 7 p.m. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased at the clinic or at autismcenternms.com/ gala.

December 14 Christmas with the North Mississippi Symphony Orchestra An evening of holiday music will also feature selections from The Nutcracker and Duke Ellington. Tupelo Civic Auditorium, 7:30 p.m.

football November 16 Ole Miss vs. Troy Ole Miss takes on the Troy Trojans at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. Kickoff 11 a.m.

November 16 MSU vs. Alabama Mississippi State takes on the Alabama Crimson Tide at Davis Wade Stadium. Time TBA.

November 23 MSU at Arkansas Mississippi State travels to Arkansas to play the Razorbacks at War Memorial Stadium. Time TBA.

November 23 Ole Miss vs. Mizzou Ole Miss takes on the Mizzou Tigers at VaughtHemingway Stadium. Time TBA.

November 28 Ole Miss at MSU Ole Miss takes on the Mississippi State Bulldogs at Davis Wade Stadium at 6:30 p.m. on ESPN.

November 2013 | INVITATION TUPELO

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events Alzheimer’s Walk View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

The Alzheimer’s Association’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s was held Sept. 28 in Ballard Park to raise awareness and funds for care, support and research efforts for those affected by Alzheimer’s disease.

Anna Claire Hester, Renea Ethridge, Eva Long, Gail Hester, Jean Harden, Shirley Bennett, Angie Pettigo and Rebekah Rainey

Nick and Presley Rainey with Zack Ivy

Lori Spruill Smith with Lee Ann and Madison Glusenkamp

Anna Claire Edwards, Victoria O’Barr, Charlsi Allen, Caysi Mitchell, Robert Scott and Dora Jean Sanderson

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2013

Rachel Ruello, Jay VanWinkle, Sara Murphy, Shelli Wood and Keri Roaten

Wanda Hawks and Leah Malone

Danny Rushing, Debra Brown, Glenda Buchanan, Kelly Brewer and Holly Boyd

photographed by Lisa Roberts

Paulina Gumm and Georgia Wood

Linda Douglas with Kim and Miner Sistrunk

Lori Pirtle, Brian Prestridge and Mitzi

November 2013 | INVITATION TUPELO

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photographed by Lisa Roberts

events Hops & Stops Harvest Beer Tasting View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

Hops & Stops Harvest Beer Tasting was held Oct. 3 in downtown Tupelo. Ticket holders sampled craft beers at participating locations in Tupelo. Following the beer tasting, an after party with music and food was held at the Lyric.

Kirk and Catherine Thoms with Camille Mangum, Richard Vaughn and Tonya Davis

Sherry and Brad Miller

Steve Morgan and Cheryl Sutherland with Mandy and Bart White

Tracie Conwill with Greg and Loralei McGee

Shipman and Anna Kathryn Sloan with Katie and Jess Brandi Thornton, Andrea Elder, Jessica Black and Wiygul Katy White

Janine Walker, Clay Hassell and Britney Keith with Ashley and Jason White

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2013

Brody Holland, Josh Martin and Katie Daniels

Tina White, Toni Sams and Laura Young

Robin and Allie Martin with Robin Satcher, Becky Hurt and Bethanie Ladd

November 2013 | INVITATION TUPELO

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photographed by Lisa Roberts

events Chili Festival

continued on page 22

View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

The 14th-annual Chili Festival was held Oct. 11 on Broadway Street in downtown Tupelo. Participants sampled chili and voted for their favorite recipes. The band Two Drink Minimum provided live entertainment.

Monica Lindsey and Dani Maddox

Leigh Ann Mattox, Deana Carlock, Barbara Aguirre, Neely Turner, Alex Wilcox, Shanta Eiland, Amy Kennedy, Laura Kramer and Alex Farned

Eddie and Kathy Pitts with Shonda Cooper

Robbie Shackelford, Tommy Taylor and Craig Horton

Haley Carpenter, Jesika Dees and Kim Bowling

James Comans, Derek Russell, Carol Upton and Bill Dees

Amye James and Jeremy Allison with Trai and Margaret Stegall

Craig Murphy and Brad Garrison with Mickey and Mark Young

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photographed by Lisa Roberts

events Chili Festival

continued from page 20

View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

Scott Bebout and Julianne Goodwin

Brad Rickels, Bonnie McMillan, Brook Steele, Stan White, Sandy Nana and Terez Jenny Jones and Jim Diffee Jones

April Bullard, Kelcy Weed, Lawrence Buse, Donna Stevens and Lex Christian

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2013

Karen Dickey, Holley Meriweather, Mark Hinton, Zelda Dexter, Ashley Lindley, Wesley Bost and Gus Brand Wayne Averett 704 N. Gloster St., #2c Tupelo, MS 38804 662-871-9235 Jerry.W.Averett.Jr@ mwarep.org

Jim Brown 398 East Main St., #204 Tupelo, MS 38804 662-678-6935 James.P.Brown@ mwarep.org

Robert Hall 704 N. Gloster St., #2a Tupelo, MS 38801 662-687-1505 Robert.Hall@ mwarep.org

Tim Brown 144 S. Thomas St., #206 Tupelo, MS 38801 662-620-9876 D.Tim.Brown@ mwarep.org

Teresa Baker 1018 N. Gloster, Ste. C Tupelo, MS 38804 662-322-8207 Teresa.Baker@ mwarep.org

November 2013 | INVITATION TUPELO

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photographed by Shea Summers

events Tupelo High School’s 100th Anniversary View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

Tupelo High School held its 100th anniversary celebration Oct. 15 at Buffalo Wild Wings. Officially, the school’s 100th anniversary was March 6, the date the first Tupelo High School building was dedicated.

Justin, Preston and Cassandra Varnon

Rayvn Camp, Courtney Pugh, Mary Elizabeth King, Rachel Dudas, Maddie Hammond, Alexis Le and Danielle Sharp

Jacqueline and Norma Hastings

Elijah and Nikki Bumphis

Barry Adams, Leslie Nabors and James Koze

Debra Beadles, Derrick Brock and Vinni Pacetti

Heston Lollar, Joel Baldwin, Ashton Wedel and Maalik Coleman

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2013

Tori Palmer and Bridgette Clock

Brad Polcyn and Michael Viruse

Jason Frederick and Cody Harris

Jace Mauldin, Caleb Workman, Blake Beadles and Christian Haire

W 6 Z \ M P P . < I K M I Q 0 V M W I O L I \ Y I ] 8 I Z Z\MZ[ ] W A %$//(7 0$*1,),&$7 Presented by the West Point Clay County Arts Council Saturday Night • 7:00 pm. November 23, 2013 Center Stage at Central School $20 Adults, $15 Students under 18 This project is supported in part by funding from the Mississippi Arts Commission, a state agency, and the National Endowment for the Arts, a federal agency.

634 E. Westbrook St., West Point, MS For tickets call 494-5678 November 2013 | INVITATION TUPELO

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photographed by Lisa Roberts

events Great Strides Walk

View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

The ninth-annual Great Strides Walk for cystic fibrosis was held Oct. 19 at Ballard Park. More than $45,000 was raised for the cause, 400 walkers participated, and 185 silent auction items were donated by local businesses.

Season Ward and Lauren Copeland

Terri and Reed Whitlock with Paige and Baylee Whitfield

Belinda Wilson, Becky McMillan and Shelly Johnson

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2013

Angela Andrews, Daniel Watkins and Kelly Scott

Valerie Clifton, Megan Herndon and Kimberly Whitworth

Anita, Amanda and Morgan Pannell

When you think of jewelry, think of STONES... Also your Collegiate gift headquarters.

Ripley, Mississippi 101 Hospital St.

662.837.4215

Tupelo, Mississippi 709 West Main

662.844.9444

November 2013 | INVITATION TUPELO

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Earning their Wings Four generations of Smallwood men have been involved in Boy Scouts, and several have been awarded the prestigious Eagle Scout rank. by Melanie Crownover photographed by Joe Worthem

B

ill Smallwood Sr. started Boy Scout Troop 17 in New Albany, Miss., in 1928. Founding New Albany’s first troop not only changed the town and Smallwood’s future; it also unexpectedly started a Scouting tradition for his future family. Today, when fewer than 7 percent of boys who enter Cub Scouts finish with the revered Eagle badge, the Smallwoods now count three generations of Eagle Scouts.

Generation two Not even Little League Baseball vied for boys’ attention when Bill Smallwood Jr. entered Cub Scouts in the 1940s with his twin brother,

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2013

Ed, by his side. Being a Scout was a must and an honor. “Daddy had gotten out about the time we were born to focus on business, but my mom was den mother, and he was always helping out,” he said. “He died when we were just 16. I’m just glad he lived long enough to see both of us get our Eagle [badges] because it meant so much to him.” Becoming an Eagle Scout wasn’t much different then than it is today. In addition to progressing through the Boy Scout ranks to earn the Eagle Scout rank, Scouts must earn 21 merit badges in areas including first aid; emergency preparedness; citizenship in the

community, nation and world; environmental science; family life and personal management. They are also required to serve in a troop leadership position for six months; plan, develop and lead a service project; take part in a Scoutmaster conference; and successfully complete an Eagle Scout board of review. For Smallwood Jr., 80, it wasn’t until after graduating from the University of Mississippi in 1955 that he realized what his Eagle Scout honor really meant. “I’d heard my cousin talk about how his Scouting skills saved his life in Germany during the war,” he said. “When I went in the Army after college, that Eagle on my resume meant

November 2013 | INVITATION TUPELO

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Bill Smallwood Jr. (left), Sam Smallwood (center) and Bill Smallwood III, along with Sam’s brother, Carter (not pictured), are all Eagle Scouts. Smallwood Jr.’s father, Bill Smallwood Sr., was not a Scout himself, but he started a local troop in the 1920s, unknowingly inspiring generations of his family to succeed in Scouting.

they could depend on me, and the lessons I’d learned over the years like lifesaving and camping were good experience I could use.”

Generation Three That practical life experience was one of the many reasons he wanted his son, Bill Smallwood III, to become a Cub Scout in third grade. “I don’t remember there ever being a question about whether I would do it or not. Back then, Scouts and Little League were just what you did besides going to church,” the Tupelo attorney said. Smallwood III’s mom was den mother and his dad was pack master, which meant meetings were also family time. He did plenty of camping, fishing and hiking with his pals in Troop 222 as well. Smallwood Jr., meanwhile, moved up the

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2013

leadership ranks as his son became a Boy Scout, serving in positions with the Tallahatchie District and Yocona Area Council. The goal for his son to become an Eagle Scout never wavered, though. “When I started for my Eagle, the project requirement just had to be a worthwhile endeavor instead of a community support plan that includes managing volunteers, like now,” Smallwood III said. “I took two or three of the Union County cemeteries my grandmother’s chapter of D.A.R. [Daughters of the American Revolution] was compiling records on and recorded gravestone info for my [project]. That was heavy-thinking charity for my age.” Smallwood III got his Eagle in 1976 and retired from Scouting until his own sons became Scouts in the late 1990s.

Generation Four Much like his father and grandfather, Smallwood III came into his adult Scouting role with fervor. The re-entry process began with Smallwood III assisting in the reorganization of a local Cub Scout pack and serving as pack master when his eldest son, Carter, joined. His youngest son, Sam, signed up a couple of years later. His dedication only increased when his sons became Boy Scouts. He was the first Scoutmaster of their Troop 220, leading the troop until the boys became Eagle Scouts in 2010 and 2012. Even their grandfather came back to the troop as a merit badge counselor and Scout camp assistant during the boys’ tenure. “It kept us going to be in his troop and

“When I went in the Army after college, that Eagle on my resume meant they could depend on me, and the lessons I’d learned over the years like lifesaving and camping were good experience I could use.” -Bill Smallwood Jr.

have that extra support, and it was always good motivation to focus and get my stuff done,” Sam, a senior at Tupelo High School, said. “There’s so much going on after school now that only a select few are in Scouts, and fewer stay in. You have to sacrifice a lot of other opportunities to finish.” After watching his brother work through his Eagle Scout project – building needed storage at a local church – before he headed to the University of Mississippi, Sam knew the kind of changes he had to make to reach his goal. The student athlete, who played on his church basketball team and his high school tennis team, cut his participation in extracurricular activities his junior and senior years. He needed to make time to earn the badges needed and finish his Eagle Scout project, Natchez Trace stream restoration that included managing 15 volunteers. Throughout Scouting, Sam held positions such as chaplain aide and senior patrol leader that prepared him for managing his crew of volunteers, and the determination to earn his wings was in his DNA. Still, he said, the lessons of persevering were unexpected. “It was a lot of work and stress, but it’s worth it. And I worked my way through it. When I have to do my senior project this year, it’ll be no problem because I know how to handle it. That will just carry over into college and then on into the work force. It showed me what I can do,” Sam said. “I’ve learned so much through Scouting that will stick with me the rest of my life, and I just hope that my kids get the chance to do the same thing one day.”

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Layaway available for Christmas. Shop locally. Fender, Martin, Takamine, Mapex drums, Rowland, Casio, and many others

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2013

visit shop dine play

October 2013 | INVITATION TUPELO

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by Melanie Crownover

• photographed by Joe Worthem

The Homeland American Indian history and culture are still very much alive in Tupelo.

C

hief Billy Dancing Moon Miller came to north Mississippi as a teen looking for a Tennessee Valley Authority job in 1970. Within months, the Arkansas native convinced his parents to move across the river. Many homes and states drew his restless spirit away during the next 43 years, but Miller always ended up coming back to Mississippi. Miller, a hereditary chief of the Chickamauga tribe of Tennessee, has spent most of his adult life piecing together the scraps of his heritage – a task he says is difficult even for American Indian ancestry genealogy buffs. “[There was a time when] you couldn’t say you were Indian unless you were walking the Trail [of Tears] or were on a reservation,” Miller said. “So lots of us went underground and took on identities as ‘Black Dutch’ or ‘Black Irish.’ In Louisiana it’s called ‘mulatto.’ In Kentucky and the Tennessee hills it’s ‘Melungeon.’ It’s really

all just a way to get around calling yourself Indian to avoid disappearing or the reservation. And that’s lots of fun when you’re working on a family tree.” Part of Miller’s family took on the Dutch name Manning, but he still managed to trace his lineage to Chief Dragging Canoe of the 1700s and Chief Amatoya from the 1500s. Many centuries removed, Miller has followed in their footsteps by taking on leadership roles in his 1,000-member-strong tribe. He has served during the last 20 years as head warrior, clan chief and now principal chief at the elders’ requests. Miller’s tribe is a non-federally recognized band originating from the Tanisi, or “Tennessee.” The group later took the name Chickamauga for the region of the state where they fought for their land with the U.S. after refusing to sign a treaty and relocate to a reservation.

“We have a proud history, just like the tribes here,” Miller said. “Long before I ever powwowed with either tribe, I knew the story of how two Aztec brothers named Chickasaw and Chahtah from Mexico came to these parts and parted ways with their own followers, who took on their chiefs’ names as a tribe. One stayed north; the other went south, and that’s where they remained. Add in the Natchez of the Deep South, and you see how the whole state was put together.” Despite the fact that his Chickamauga tribe is in Tennessee, Miller and his wife, Star, have stayed firmly planted on Mississippi soil. He always thought his desire to remain was based on the hospitality and the native history so evident in the Natchez Trace, nearby battle sites and village mounds around Tupelo. “There wouldn’t be a city without that history,” Rae Mathis, Oren Dunn Museum

Chief Billy Dancing Moon Miller of the Chickamauga tribe of Tennessee, pictured at right, feels most at home in Tupelo, and he believes his recently discovered ancestral connection to the Choctaw is part of the reason.

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2013

November 2013 | INVITATION TUPELO

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In Pictures

The Natchez Trace Tupelo Visitor’s Center at milepost 266 has a special photo exhibit on display throughout November that explores various aspects of American Indian history through featured national park sites. The center is also showing a 23-minute video on the Trail of Tears in honor of American Indian Heritage Month. The film is available upon request with the last possible showing at 4:30 p.m. The visitor’s center is open daily 8 a.m.-5 p.m., and both displays are free and open to the public.

The annual White Buffalo Indian Powwow draws thousands of visitors to Tupelo Buffalo Park each May. The powwow started after the birth of Tukota, a rare white buffalo that lived at the park until it died in 2011. More than 10,000 visitors attended this year’s powwow, pictured above.

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2013

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curator, said. “The name Tupelo actually means ‘lodging’ in the Chickasaw language because this was their capital. They started the Natchez Trace as a trade route, and the military took it over and kept it up during the Civil War so they could use it to their advantage. That’s where it all started.� After years of searching, Miller discovered he does in fact have ancestral ties to the area. His great-grandmother was on the Choctaw Rolls, a federally mandated census of the tribe before they were sent to the reservation by the Indian Removal Act. Last year, Miller learned that his California-native wife’s fifth grandfather back owned Choctaw land in Oklahoma, making her connection to the area more than just coincidence as well. “This has always been the homeland of the Natchez, Chickasaw and Choctaw. I carry some blood from the plains, but something has always brought me back to Mississippi every time I move,� Miller said. “You get me out of these trees and hills, and I get pretty irritable. Right here, I’m a peaceful soul, for the most part. Now I know it just gets that Choctaw blood talking.� Miller has played a part in recent American Indian history in the area. In 2001, Miller and the former Choctaw Chief Phillip Martin were the first to examine the white buffalo, Tukota, at Tupelo Buffalo Park. They were charged with verifying the legitimacy of the rarity, which the tribes consider sacred. Their finding that the bull wasn’t an albino, but in fact a revered white buffalo, still draws thousands to the park annually for the White Buffalo Indian Powwow, even though Tukota died in 2011. More than 10,000 visitors attended the eighth-annual weekend-long gathering in May, including a steady influx of both state and nonnative tribe members from as far away as New Zealand, according to park manager Lindsay Bullock. “I still carry a small tuft of his hair in my medicine bag,� Miller said. “He was a good omen that has brought many who are searching their heritage back to this place every year for the powwow. When they feel that fellowship and the heart of this place, I’d bet some of them stay like I have.�

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November 2013 | INVITATION TUPELO

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The White Buffalo Indian Powwow is just one example of how American Indian heritage and culture are celebrated in northeast Mississippi. Historic villages, battle sites and other interesting landmarks can be found all around the city, and several nearby museums have permanent exhibits dedicated to native history.

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2013

Local Landmarks

Connect with American Indian history in the area by visiting these nearby attractions.

Chickasaw Village

This site, located west of the city at milepost 261.8 on the Natchez Trace, features remains of a complete native town, along with a fort thought to have been constructed for defense against the French in the early 1700s.

Battle of Ackia

A marker memorializing this 1736 bloody battle between the English, backed by local Chickasaw, and the French Army, backed by Choctaw, now sits on a hill near Pierce Street School in the Lee Acres subdivision.

Chief Tishomingo’s House

Between Brice’s Crossroads Battlefield and the Mississippi’s Final Stands Interpretive Center at Baldwyn, stands a site documented as Chickasaw Chief Tishomingo’s house. The spot marks the beginning of a scenic byway.

The Old Trace

Step back onto the original path the Chickasaw walked at several places on the Natchez Trace. One of the closest spots to Tupelo is near the Confederate gravesites at milepost 269.4.

Museum Showings

Many local museums have ongoing exhibits dedicated to the American Indian heritage of the area, including the Oren Dunn Museum in Tupelo and the Town Square Post Office and Museum in Pontotoc. Visitors can see authentic arrowheads, pottery, tools, art and more.

Ingomar Mounds

Just outside New Albany on Highway 15 South is an Indian mound 30 feet high and an acre across, built around 2,000 years ago as a ceremonial and burial complex by the Middle Woodlands tribes that preceded the Chickasaw.

Chief Piomingo Statue

A statue of Chickasaw Chief Piomingo (17501798), an influential Chickasaw ally to the U.S., stands in Fairpark. The statue was sculpted by Mississippi artist William Beckwith and donated by Rotary Club of Tupelo in 2005.

great things happen when you

SEPTEMBER 2012

JUNE/JULY 2013

MAY 2013

advertise in Annual combined Tupelo and Oxford issue

BRIDAL ISSUE

Call Cindy Semmes, Director of Advertising, for more information at 662.701.8070.

November 2013 | INVITATION TUPELO

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2013

November 2013 | INVITATION TUPELO

41

events Halloween Egg Hunt, Trunk-or-Treat and Zombie Run View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

Halloween festivities took place Oct. 19 at Ballard Park. The park was filled with families participating in the egg hunt, hayrides, trunk-or-treat and a zombie run, all sponsored by the City of Tupelo Department of Parks and Recreation.

Mekae Furland with Tiffany, Ricky and Jamison Smolik

Fran and Lylla Clardy with Jeanne Yarbrough

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2013

Briana, Monique, Kayla and David Whitfield with Dylan Brown, Marla Richardson and Jalen Rivera

Brooke and Addi Turner with Lexi Dickey

Mandy, Tracy and Cole Carlock

photographed by Lisa Roberts

Grayson Allen, Paige and Harrison Roye

Hayes and Halle Jones

Jessica Roberts with Charley and Allie Chidester

Kelly, Jamie, Harper and Owen Wallace

Nicole Fields, Shanta Eiland and Neely Turner

Casey Yeager and Rebecca Smith

Ray Lynn and Rae Mathis

Amber and Addie Grace Steele

Diane Kuykendall with Sydney and Leigh Ann Mattox

November 2013 | INVITATION TUPELO

43

events John Fogerty Concert View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationoxford.

John Fogerty performed at BancorpSouth Arena on Oct. 22. Fogerty is an American musician, songwriter and guitarist, perhaps best known for his time with the band Creedence Clearwater Revival in the late 1960s.

Taylor Stephenson, Nikki Ford and Lisa and Joey Stephenson

Paden Bell and Marianne Mancill

Anita Dearing with Norma, Justin and Maurie Cother

Lee and Lisa Bryant with Chad Byars, Eddie and Lisa Driskell, Mike Millican and Lora Ross

Greg and Tracie Conwill with Peyton and Angel Harbin and Amy and Bud Forrest Jennifer Shelton with Dean and Kristie Webb and Boyce and Cindy Googe

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2013

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Morgan Gentry and Brenan Haynes

Angie Henry and Terry Sanders

Craig and Debbie Russell with Gayle and Joe Allen

Kim and Tommy Johnson with Cindy and Barry Goode

November 2013 | INVITATION TUPELO

45

photographed by Lisa Roberts

events Miss Lee County Beauty Pageant View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

The Miss Lee County Beauty Pageant was held Nov. 2 at Church Street Elementary School. The event was open to girls and young women, ages newborn to 21, and it is a fundraiser for the Miss Tupelo scholarship program.

Stephanie Box and Sydney Duggar

LaSonja Lipsey, Marquita Griffin, Kayla Lipsey and Alexis Hatchett

Bailey Blanchard, Taylor Barefoot and Emma Blanchard Makayla Humphres and Kateland Kennedy

Andrea Spencer and Anna-Blake Tate

46

Hanna and Becky Stewart

Jennifer Thomas, Katailina Torres and Marie Henry

Lauren Grace Rutherford and Lilly Crump LaKoya Gordon and LaShonda White

INVITATION TUPELO | November 2013

Shirley and Kylie Moore

Share your exciting news with an

photographed by stephanie rhea

bridal announcement

Half page, $90 Includes one picture and 100-150 words. Full page, $150 Includes three pictures and 200-300 words. Two pages, $275 Includes five pictures and 400-500 words. For more information, please call Hallie at (662) 801-2265 or email hallielandonmarshall@gmail.com.

November 2013 | INVITATION TUPELO

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

Celebration Village, an annual holiday market that serves as a fundraiser for Sanctuary Hospice House, was held Oct. 23-26 at Tupelo Furniture Market. Vendors from Tupelo and the surrounding area sold their goods.

Hunter and Zack Harrington

Lindsey Vucannon, Ashley Thrasher, Casey Palmer and Hannah Jackson Morris

Judy Holder and Nancy Gutierrez

Bonnie Lancaster and Brenda Massey

48

Alley and Brandy Schulz

Michelle Goolsby and Tracey Jackson

INVITATION TUPELO | November 2013

Nikki Tacker and Brenda Sartain

Howard and Jean Gunn

Chris and Rozy Wilson

Keisha Green, Dalyn Gordon and Kevin Brownlee

photographed by Kristi Sizemore

Kezie Bailey and Reagan Smith

Twana Miller and Kelly Scott

Susan Vance and Micki Johnson

Tina Franks, Debra Gardner and Ashlee Moore

Joann Wilson with Ansley and Darla Ryan

Margie Anderson and Theresa Spears

Candice Smith and Ginger Petit

Savannah and Alice Adair

Angelia Thomas, Sue Shepherd and Sadie Buchanan

November 2013 | INVITATION TUPELO

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

The Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure was held Oct. 26 at Fairpark in Tupelo. Proceeds benefit research supporting breast health and breast cancer education in north Mississippi.

Kent Collier and Meghan Van

Camille Bautista, Penny Schmidt, Jody Holloway, Leo Bautista, Elesha Tidwell, Billy McCullough, Analyn Weeks, Susan Dorrough, Patty Blissard and Mandi Herring

Laken Croft and Lori Wiggington

Amy Cole Lothorp, Amy Justice and Bea Washington

Regina Prewitt, Amanda Stark and Katie Willard

Rachel Bremseth, Christa Jackson and Brittany Phillips

Glenda, Camille and Abigail Bautista

Randy Groover, Stephen Cantrell and Amber Melton

Alyssa McCrory with Jesse and Tammie Nicholson and Tiffany Hopper

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2013

photographed by Lisa Roberts

Ana Banks with Morgan (dog), Amanda Lane and Katina O’Neal

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Marilyn and Campbell Jordan

Cassidy Warren and Candace Gooch

November 2013 | INVITATION TUPELO

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Christmas with the Clydesdales

by Emily Welly

photograph courtesy of anheuser-busch

In the spirit of community, a local business is partnering with the city to make this year’s Christmas parade one to remember.

F

orget Santa Claus. This Christmas, the world-famous Budweiser Clydesdale horses are coming to town. The horses will be part of Tupelo’s 65th-

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2013

annual Christmas parade, to be held at 6:30 p.m. Dec. 10 in downtown Tupelo. Tupelo City Council President Nettie Davis will serve as the parade’s grand marshal, and the new time

inspired the theme, “’Twas the Night Before Christmas.” The Clydesdales are coming thanks to Tupelo’s Mitchell Distributing Company (MDC),

which won a nationwide award recognizing it as a top performer among Anheuser-Busch wholesalers. As part of its award, the company will receive a commemorative Clydesdales

November 2013 | INVITATION TUPELO

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2013

photographs courtesy of anheuser-busch

trophy, to be personally delivered by the famous horses. MDC was one of only seven wholesalers, out of more than 700, to achieve this recognition. The company is celebrating its success by sharing its award with the community. MDC is partnering with the Downtown Tupelo Main Street Association (DTMSA) to include the horses in the parade, which has been moved to the evening. “Moving the Christmas parade to a nighttime event has been overwhelmingly positive,” DTMSA director Debbie Brangenberg said. “To have the Clydesdales be a part of our annual parade makes the parade extra special. Mitchell [Distributing Company] is a wonderful partner not only for Downtown Tupelo Main Street but also the community and region. To have them share their honor shows their genuine community spirit and generosity.” When they’re not traveling, the Clydesdales live at Anheuser-Busch facilities in Missouri, New Hampshire and Colorado. Each 10-horse hitch pulls a turn-of-the-century beer wagon and is led by an expert hitch driver accompanied by a Dalmatian perched atop the wagon. In addition to attending the parade, the Clydesdales will be at the Community Development Foundation’s Business After Hours event, taking place at 5 p.m. Dec. 12 at MDC’s Tupelo warehouse. The horses will be in town Dec. 9-16, and MDC also plans to set hours for the public to come view the hitch.

The Budweiser Clydesdales, coming to Tupelo for the Dec. 10 Christmas parade, live at facilities in Missouri, New Hampshire and Colorado, but their official home, pictured at left, is an ornate brick and stained-glass stable built in 1885 on the grounds of the 100-acre Anheuser-Busch brewery complex in St. Louis.

November 2013 | INVITATION TUPELO

55

Visit Shop Dine

Corinth

56

INVITATION TUPELO | October 2013

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November 2013 | INVITATION TUPELO 57 Just a short drive to $avings in Downtown Hamilton, AL

AvonLea Assisted Living 2429 Lawndale Drive Tupelo, MS 38801 662-840-6163 Fax: 662-842-4742 www.AvonLea-Community.com

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2013

Forever in Blue Jeans by Elizabeth Ferrell

photographed by mabus photography

Bespoke isn’t just for suits anymore. North Mississippi-based Blue Delta Jean Company crafts denim that is custom-made and homegrown.

B

esides apple pie, blue jeans are about as American as it gets. But as ubiquitous as they are, finding a pair that fits well can be difficult. At least, that was the case for Pontotoc, Miss., natives Josh and Jill West. “Neither I nor my wife could find jeans that we liked,” Josh said. “We wanted something conservative but attractive, with bold lines, made in America.” So in 2010, they decided to do something

about it, and that’s when their business, Blue Delta Jean Company, was born. Josh recruited Nick Weaver, a high school friend from their hometown who now lives in Oxford, as their business partner. Today, Josh is chief executive officer, Jill is president and Weaver is chief operating officer. The company is based in Verona, Miss., and it produces custom-made, all-American, eco-friendly jeans. “Every component is made in the U.S.,”

Weaver said. “Cotton grown in Texas. Rivets and zippers, labels printed in the U.S. We’re not buying goods from other places.” Novices to textile manufacturing, the young entrepreneurs faced a learning curve. “We knew nothing,” Josh said. “We bought out a garment operation in Memphis that had closed down. We loaded 17 sewing machines on a trailer not knowing how to turn them on.”

November 2013 | INVITATION TUPELO

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photographed by mabus photography

Blue Delta jeans have a timeless look and custom fit. Clients can choose their denim weave, with options that range from heavy and slub yarn to summer and ecru. The jeans are made from U.S.-grown cotton that is all-natural and 100-percent raw. Each pair is cut and sewn individually.

But they were smart enough to know what they didn’t know, and they worked to recruit the most experienced employees they could find. “Our seamstresses each have over 30 years of jeans-manufacturing experience,” Josh said. “Some laughed at us,” Weaver said. “There was one resume we really wish we had back. She called us fools and then left!” “That was a low point,” Josh said. “Our first hire was our lead seamstress, and she’s stuck with us.” Since then, the business has found its groove.

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2013

Designers Hillary Nichols and Sona Amroyan start with a sketch and help bring concepts to reality. But it’s all hands on deck at the small startup. “Believe it or not, my wife and I do some design work,” Josh said. “Well, we use that term loosely. I know what I want it to look like, and they help.” Overall, Blue Delta jeans have a minimalist, conservative look. “You see so many jeans with crazy pocket designs,” Josh said. “That’s not us.” Additionally, their aesthetic contributes to

their mission to be eco-friendly. “Ours is a waterless process,” Josh said. “When our jeans become streaked, it’s natural wear lines, not artificial lines from water and chemicals. After we get the jeans from the mill, they’re never washed again until the customer washes them. That has much less impact on the environment.” Once Nichols and Amroyan turn the design ideas into a pattern and then a sample pair, staff members test the jeans themselves. Then it’s up to the customer to make the jeans his or her own.

photographed by joe worthem

Bottom left, Blue Delta Jean Company owners Jill and Josh West and Nick Weaver in their Verona, Miss., workshop. Top center, the old sewing machines were purchased from a shuttered garment business in Memphis. Top right, Josh and Nick review Blue Delta designs.

There are three basic styles for men and two for women, with boot cut, straight or slim leg. Customers choose their denim from one of five weave options, then one of three thread theories. Next, each customer selects hardware – rivets, watch pocket, and other details. Measuring for size comes last. “We can get above a 50-inch waist and keep going,” Josh said. “I have a friend who is 6 feet 8 inches [tall], and his jeans fit like a glove. They’re good for somebody who can’t find jeans to fit.” Harry Rayburn, an Oxford resident with a Tupelo dental practice, likes the way his Blue

Delta jeans feel. “I picked out where my belt loops were, had them put on at an angle in back, and picked the thread,” he said. “They fit great, and I love wearing them.” Rayburn learned about the fledgling company from a business associate through social media. “I try to support local businesses,” Rayburn said. “I knew Josh professionally and wanted to support his business.” Rayburn toured the production facility, where they took his measurements and showed

him various design options. Rayburn opted for classic straight-leg regular blue jeans with orange thread. “If somebody says, ‘Hey, I like your jeans,’ you can say, ‘They were made in Tupelo, and I helped design them,’” Rayburn said. “They’ll say, ‘What do you mean?’ And that starts a conversation. People like the story.” Blue Delta jeans cost between $190 and $220 per pair, with a turnaround time of three to four weeks. Visit bluedeltajeans.com or call 888963-7879 for more information. continued on page 62

November 2013 | INVITATION TUPELO

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photographed by mabus photography

First in flight

W

hat do blue jeans have to do with airplanes? Nothing really, except on Sept. 21, in Dallas, Texas, Blue Delta Jean Company participated in Flugtag, a national event organized by Red Bull in which competitors attempt to fly homemade human-

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2013

powered flying machines. Blue Delta was the first-ever team from Mississippi since the event began in 1992. To pay homage to their product, their aircraft resembled a Delta crop duster combined with an antique sewing machine (pictured). Although – like most teams – they

crashed, burned and landed in the water, they still managed to have fun. “It was a great experience for Blue Delta,” COO Nick Weaver said. “We did not win the flight competition, but we sure were a crowdpleaser.”

We know what’s going on.

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

Click “Like” at www.facebook.com/invitationtupelo Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/invtupelo November 2013 | INVITATION TUPELO

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events Masquerade Bash View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

The Montessori School of Tupelo celebrated its 10th anniversary Nov. 1 with a Masquerade Bash, held on the rooftop of Park Heights. The event included live music, food, drink and a silent auction that benefited the school.

Troy and Nicole Morgan with Alison Goodman

Mendy and Pat Ramey with Janna Sowers

Scott and Amanda Angle

Casey and Kevin Burgess

Catherine Norris and Karen Keeney

Brian and Jessica Estess

Dayton Cooper and Ayla Saylors

Judd Duke and Michael Thomas

John Buller and Taylor Neal

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2013

photographed by Lisa Roberts

Prentiss Street Baldwyn, MS 662.365.9876

Prentiss Street Baldwyn, MS 662.365.8087

Jennifer Summers, Taylor Goodman and Tiffany Franks

Lisa and Jonathan Martin

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November 2013 | INVITATION TUPELO

65

events Week of the Family View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

The fourth-annual Week of the Family began with a family dinner event held Nov. 4 at the Church of Jesus Christ of LatterDay Saints. The week’s festivities also included a movie night, a family fitness event and a family fun day at Fairpark.

John Shelburne and Victoria Farrington

Leah Claire, Suzanne, Sara Morgan and Will Chittom with Sara Johnson

Tammy and William Chapman

Julie and Sara Thorderson

India and Imory Ivy

Parker Olson and Haley Burgett

Albert White and Eugene Berry

Emery and Madison Pinson

Cassandra Johnson and Jerry Jones

Josh Lowman, Sierra Richardson and Eden Rose

LaSaundra and Aprentice McWilliams with Michael Roby

Amit and Achiniya Prasad

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2013

photographed by Shea Summers

Jennifer, Caroline and Luscas Westcott

Riley, Beth, Droanna and Andrew Black

Shirley Scott, Donna McFalls and Doris Jean Pittman

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events The Forged Games View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

The Forged Games were held Oct. 26-27 at Cross Fit of Tupelo. Athletes competed in four separate events, including team and individual events. More than $2,000 in cash and prizes was awarded, and gift bags were given to competitors.

Kathrine Barnett and Sarah Catherine Ryan

Jordan Metcalfe, Stephen Alred, Louis Marascalco, Kelly Mims, Johnny Bruce, Chris Smith, Haley Decker and Tracy Loden

Ashley Ludwig and Ike Urum-Eke

Tara, Parker and Aubrey Lyle with Josh McGloflin

J’Cee Hyatt, Candace Graham, Andrew Rape, Patrick Barr, Jack Curtis and Alan Curtis

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2013

Brittany Watson, Lee Ann Houpt, Heather Holt and Morgan Newberry

Eric Castleberry, Jacob Phillips, Scott Formiller and Brian Lentz

photographed by Lisa Roberts

Brad and Tiffany Franks with Chris Hussey

Adam and Stephanie Richardson

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November 2013 | INVITATION TUPELO

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out and about

continued on page 72

1

3

5

2

4

6

7

1. Wanda Todd, Kathy Beasley, Dona Porter, Elaine Copehaven and Deepika Dey at the Oct. 8 Champagne Membership Luncheon for the Gumtree Art Guild. 2. Liz Greer and Cali McCarver at the Baby’s Kickin Oct. 26 birthday celebration. 3. Janaya Thomas, Michelle McCarver and Sonya Hall at Baby’s Kickin. 4. Tommy, Nikki, Cheryl and Tom Abney at Lollipop Boutique’s Oct. 16 ribbon cutting. 5. Mike and Kelly Rosas at Tupelo Concert Association’s Sixth Floor Trio performance on Oct. 18 at Tupelo Civic Auditorium. 6. Carolyn Crosby with Madelyn and Jamie Kyker at the Sixth Floor Trio performance. 7. Brittney White and Breanna Baldwin at the Oct. 10 Tupelo High School homecoming parade and pep rally. 8. Joannah Ballard and Sally Amos at the THS homecoming parade and pep rally.

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2013

8

9

10 9. Katelynn Loague and Chase Lyle at Tupelo Haunted Castle on Oct. 12. 10. Eryn and Susan Moore at Tupelo Haunted Castle.

November 2013 | INVITATION TUPELO

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out and about

continued on page 74

11

13

15

12

14

16

17

11. Josh West, Nick Weaver, Bud Homan, Lee Patterson and Brian Baldwin at the Sept. 17 Blue Delta Jeans Company’s Flugtag send-off party at Kermit’s Outlaw Kitchen. 12. State Treasurer Lynn Fitch and Gabrielle Cooper at the Oct. 29 Business Women’s Symposium at Tupelo Country Club. 13. Devani Adams and Regina Counce at the Business Women’s Symposium. 14. Lynn Madden, Anita Buster, Wanda Johnson, Gwyn Pennebaker, Linda Everett, Barbara Fuller, Grace Provence, Samatha Morris and Tonya Coombs at the Garden Clubs of Mississippi fall district meeting hosted by Tupelo Garden Club on Oct. 2 at Tupelo Country Club. 15. Celena Hooper and Annika Stafford at the Oct. 9 Girl Scout lunch and etiquette class at His-Hers Antiques. 16. Anniyah Burkley and Samantha Wiggington at the Girl Scout lunch and etiquette class. 17. Maribeth and Spencer Kirkpatrick at the annual All Saints’ Episcopal Church Food Fest on Oct. 19.18. Cathy Fitzpatrick and Ann Springfield at the All Saints’ Food Fest. 19. Mary Payne Hairald, Mamie McCullough and Glenda Jones at North Mississippi Medical

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2013

18

19

20 Center Spirit of Women’s Girls’ Night Out, held Oct. 17 at Tupelo High School’s Performing Arts Center. 20. Sue Golmon and Tammy McCalpin at North Mississippi Medical Center Spirit of Women’s Girls’ Night Out.

November 2013 | INVITATION TUPELO

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out and about

continued from page 72

21

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21. Jordan, Stihl, Amber, Jim, Barbara, Betsy and Allie Beane at BBQ by Jim’s 20th-anniversary celebration on Oct. 3. 22. Pat Brannon and Carol Upton at the Oct. 2 MASH breast cancer awareness event at River Birch Place. 23. Brandy Haney and Lori Bryant at the MASH event. 24. Connie Agnew, Jasmine Penro, Detra Lindsey, Juanita Chandler, Felicia Green, Barbara Sheilds and Jessie Gilmore at the Oct. 4 breast cancer survivor walk in Verona, Miss. 25. Bradley Laughlin, Carla Wilemon, Kay Mathews and Ken Dulaney at the 11th-annual Shepherd’s Hands Charity Golf Tournament on Oct. 16 at Big Oaks Golf Club. 26. Nicole Floyd, Cherri Adam and Haley McLemore at the Shepherd’s Hands golf tournament. 27. Susan Robinson and Helen Monts at the Nov. 2 grand opening of Trove, an antiques store located at 1725 McCullough Blvd. in Tupelo. 28. Rebecca and Anna Grace Lawrence at the Trove grand opening. 29. Anna Merritt Roberts

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2013

27

28

29

30 and Alaina Gamble at the Nov. 2 Midnite Pottery open house. 30. Lauren Patton and Kaley Anderson at the Midnite Pottery open house.

Connie’s

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

Chicken

OPEN: Mon - Sat 6 am – 8:30 pm Sun 7 am – 2 pm Family owned & operated. In business for over 37 years & voted Tupelo’s Best Fried Chicken.

Don’t spend your holidays in the kitchen, let us do it for you. November 2013 | INVITATION TUPELO

75

Pets of the Month

Cutie

photographed by lisa roberts

Gramps

Oreo

Trixy

There are lots of ways to help the Tupelo-Lee Humane Society (TLHS), but the best way is to adopt a homeless animal. Gramps, Cutie, Oreo and Trixy, as well as dozens of other dogs, cats, guinea pigs and more, are ready to be adopted. Go see them at 2400 S. Gloster St., or visit tupeloleehumane.org for more information and details on current specials offered by the shelter and their spay and neuter clinic. Also find TLHS and adoptable pets on Saturdays at PetSmart in Saltillo.

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2013

Call The Strand for your best holiday hair this season Specializing in Corrective Haircolor 144 South Thomas Spanish Village Court Suite 101-6 Tupelo, MS 38801

662-680-4506

Tuesday night Is Kid’s Night.

Tuesdays after 4pm, children 12 years and under receive a FREE kid’s meal for every paid adult meal. 312 S. Gloster St. Tupelo, MS (662) 844-8353

November 2013 | INVITATION TUPELO

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in season Hot

Drinks

by Melanie Crownover styled and photographed by Caroline Beffa Franks

Hot Apple Cranberry Cider 2 quarts high-quality, hard bottled apple cider 6 cups cranberry juice Ÿ-½ cup brown sugar, depending on taste 4-5 cinnamon sticks 1 teaspoon whole cloves Mix all ingredients in a pot on the stovetop set on high. Bring to a boil and then reduce to simmer for 15-20 minutes. Remove cinnamon and cloves. Garnish with cinnamon sticks, apple slices and whipped cream, if desired.

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INVITATION TUPELO | November 2013

S

tar Newsome – former owner of Tupelo’s Starting Over Coffee House – is the kind of mad scientist in the kitchen who rarely writes down the formula. This month, the Memphis native shares a few of her favorite fall drinks. All are recipes she’s tweaked over the years, and they are sure to please on any chilly evening.

Mexican Hot Chocolate 6 cups milk ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa ½ cup chocolate chips 6 Tablespoons brown sugar 1 teaspoon (or less if you don’t like heat) ground cayenne 2 cinnamon sticks Put all ingredients in a pot on the stovetop on medium to medium low for about 15 minutes. Stir regularly to keep the milk from burning, and make sure the mix doesn’t boil. If you like a smooth drink, strain before drinking.

Star’s Chai Tea 5-6 cups water 2 black tea bags (more if you like stronger tea) ½ teaspoon cardamom ½ teaspoon allspice 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon ½ teaspoon ground cloves 1½ teaspoons ground ginger ½ teaspoon nutmeg Bring 5-6 cups of water to a boil on the stovetop and add rest of ingredients. Bring the heat down to low and let the brew simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add your favorite sweetener to taste (Newsome suggests adding about a teaspoon of honey). Pour cups about 3/5 of the way with tea mixture, and fill the other 2/5 of the cup with your milk of choice, whether it’s soy or sweetened condensed. Makes 2-3 servings.

November 2013 | INVITATION TUPELO

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tupelo spirit Marie Parker The Salvation Army’s holiday bell ringers with their trademark red kettles are a sure sign that Christmas is coming. Marie Parker, coordinator of the organization’s Tupelo bell ringing campaign, shares what the tradition means to her.

Q: How did you get involved with the Salvation Army? A: Actually, I was homeless and came to the lodge [the organization’s emergency homeless shelter] for a place to live in 2004. I started ringing bells as one of our few paid ringers, six days a week from 9 a.m. until 8 p.m. that Christmas.

Q: How did that evolve into a job? A: I became lodge keeper in January 2005 until I left to find a home to raise my grandkids in 2006. I came back that next year as a custodian and went to Itawamba Community College to get a degree in office assistant technology and became [Salvation Army] Major [Sue] Dorman’s secretary. From there, it’s been job add-ons like payroll, human resources and handling the bell ringing.

Q: How does it feel to be on the other side? A: I can honestly say that they saved my life when I came here. I was addicted to drugs with no family to turn to, and they were there for me. I spend a lot of time at the lodge telling people that they’re not at the end of their ropes; they’re at a new beginning.

Q: Are people really more giving this time of year?

A: They are because it’s easier to see the need. But like our motto says, people need that help year-round. Our food pantry runs five days a week, clothing vouchers go out daily, and there are always people in the lodge. We need the help to help change lives. interviewed by Melanie Crownover photographed by Caroline Beffa Franks

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