Invitation Tupelo: September 2014

SEPTEMBER 2014

TUPELO NATIVES MAKE IT BIG IN SPORTS, DESIGN & FASHION

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IN THIS ISSUE SEPTEMBER 2014

FEATURES

SEPTEMBER 2014

34 Gray Is the New Black TUPELO NATIVES

Interior designer and former Travel Channel TV star Kenn Gray is returning home to launch his new line of home goods.

MAKE IT BIG IN SPORTS, DESIGN & FASHION

COVER PHOTOGRAPHED

BY PAUL GANDY

60 On Location Saltillo, Miss., native and MSU football alum Heath Hutchins models for top labels such as Ralph Lauren and Abercrombie & Fitch.

92 The Beat Goes On Tupelo High School’s annual regional Marching Band Festival is a community tradition.

94 Toast of the Town The Antler is a country-chic space for formal events, weddings and fundraiser galas.

EVENTS 20 22 24 26 28 31 32 50 52 54 56 58 80 82 84 86 88

40 Glory Days

Former professional athletes and Tupelo-area natives Steve Dillard, Jason Smith and Kirk Presley have made their homes in north Mississippi and now use their skills to teach and encourage young players to reach their dreams.

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Dance Like the Stars A Southern Belle Primer Arts, Beats and Eats Elvis Fan Appreciation Day Good Samaritan Clinic Roast Wine, Women and Wealth MSU Football Fan Day Saltillo High School Football Tupelo Furniture Market Boots, Bluegrass & BBQ Young Lawyers Golf Tournament THS Community Tailgate Tupelo Marathon MS Painters Society Art Show Meet the Raiders Boy Scouts Clay Classic Health and Wellness Festival

SPECIAL SECTION 63 2014 Fall Fashion

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86 DEPARTMENTS 14 18 90 100 102 104

Letter From the Publisher What’s Happening Out and About In Season: Pet Treats Pets of the Month Tupelo Spirit: Patricia Neely-Dorsey September 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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the publisher

LETTER FROM

W

hen I was 10, I visited Minneapolis, Minn., for a family wedding. It just so happened the Minnesota Twins were playing in the final game of the 1987 World Series the night of the wedding, and I got to be part of the excitement as the Twins beat the St. Louis Cardinals to win the World Series.

It was an amazing atmosphere – all the wedding guests were excited about the win – and one of my first experiences with such a pinnacle moment in professional sports.

This month Invitation Tupelo features the stories of men and women who have succeeded in sports, fashion, design and other areas on both the national and international levels. Each of these people calls northeast Mississippi home.

Interior designer Kenn Gray and male model Heath Hutchins are two of them. After lots of hard work and a little bit of luck, Gray and Hutchins now have realized their visions with successful careers in design and fashion.

Three more big names are Steve Dillard, Jason Smith and Kirk Presley, all of whom were professional athletes. Today, they teach and encourage young players to reach their dreams.

This issue is full of stories you haven’t seen before about neighbors who have made it big. Regardless of their sport or industry, they’ve all gotten to experience exciting World Series-like moments. What makes them extra special is their drive to share their thrilling achievements with their hometown.

RACHEL M. WEST, PUBLISHER

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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 Chasity Dees, Emily Gatlin 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

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

FAMILY EVENTS

EXHIBITS, CONCERTS, MARKETS AND BENEFITS

September 20

Now through October 15

September 19

Disney Jr. Live

Hispanic Heritage Month Photo Exhibit

Fish ‘N Fixins

Boys and girls alike will be thrilled to see their favorite characters live in Pirate and Princess Adventures. 1 p.m. and 4 p.m., BancorpSouth Arena. bcsarena.com

A photo exhibit features national parks across the country honoring and preserving Hispanic heritage. Natchez Trace Parkway Visitor Center at milepost 266. nps.gov/natr

September 20

Now through October 25

Stop by JBHM’s seventh-annual Fish ‘N Fixins event for a plate lunch and to help raise money for the American Red Cross. 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. on Court Street between Front and Spring Streets. Tickets $10. For tickets call 662-8713574.

Junior Ranger Program

Downtown Tupelo Farmers Market

Identify animals that make homes along the Natchez Trace Parkway at Who’s Track Is That?, a free junior ranger program. Best suited for ages 7-12. 10-11 a.m., Natchez Trace Parkway Visitor Center at milepost 266. nps.gov/natr

Open Saturday, Tuesday and Thursday at 6 a.m. at 415 S. Spring St. by the railroad tracks. tupelomainstreet.com/ farmers-market

September 26-27 Family Camp Out The Department of Parks and Recreation and Friends of the Park sponsor an overnight family camping event at Veterans Park. Register for $5 per person through Sept. 19; $10 per person after that. Free for children under age 3.

662-841-6640, leigh.mattox@tupeloms.gov

September 30 Tupelo Reads: Luncheon With Books As part of Tupelo Reads, Luncheon With Books will feature Forrest Gump author Winston Groom. Tupelo Reads is a communitywide reading initiative based around a different novel each year. 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., Lee County Library. tupeloreads.com/events

October 3 Tupelo Reads Tupelo Reads culminates with an art show featuring student artwork inspired by the book Forrest Gump at GumTree Museum of Art at 5:30 p.m.; the Run Forrest Run 5K race at 6:30 p.m. at Fairpark; and a showing of the movie Forrest Gump at 7:30 p.m. at Fairpark. Local food trucks will be on hand for the movie showing. tupeloreads.com/events

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September 18-20 The Spitfire Grill Tupelo Community Theatre stages a musical, The Spitfire Grill, at the Lyric Theatre. 7:30 p.m. Sept. 18-20; 2 p.m.

Sept. 20. $22; $10 students. tct.ms

September 21 Hernando de Soto A living history encampment represents the expedition of Hernando de Soto and his interactions with Chickasaw Indians along the Natchez Trace during the 1500s.

10 a.m.-3 p.m., Natchez Trace Parkway Visitor Center at milepost 266. nps.gov/natr

September 23 Tupelo Concert Association Tupelo Concert Association presents Cotton Wine, a multi-instrumentalist vocal duo that promises haunting harmonies and compelling storytelling. 7 p.m., Tupelo Civic Auditorium. tupeloconcertassociation.com

September 25 Jake Owen Concert Country music star Jake Owen takes the stage at BancorpSouth Arena for his Days of Gold tour. Eli Young Band and The Cadillac Three open the show. 7 p.m. bcsarena.com

September 20 Fall Garden Day A free gardening event includes educational seminars, display gardens, garden tours, activities for children and more. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. at the North Mississippi Research and Extension Center in Verona, Miss.

September 27 Wives of Warriors/Officers Down Race Walk, jog or run a 5K to benefit the Wives of Warriors/ Officers Down scholarship fund. 8 a.m.-noon, with race starting and finishing at Fairpark.

October 4 Green Market The sixth-annual season of Green Market continues at the Crossroads Museum at the historic Corinth Depot in Corinth, Miss. The market features local farmers, gardeners, artisans and craftspeople selling their wares.

9 a.m.-3 p.m. corinthgreenmarket.net

October 9 Lyrics for Le Bonheur A singer/songwriter event takes place to raise money for Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital. Participating artists include John Milstead, Phil “Philbilly” O’Donnell, Jamie Davis, Shane Minor, Casey Beathard, Leith Loftin and Tyler Reeve. 7 p.m., The Antler. Tickets $75. To purchase, visit events.lebonheur.org/lyricsforlebonheur.

FESTIVALS September 19-20

Weekend for Our Heroes Honor military veterans and raise money for Tupelo’s Vietnam memorial replica wall at a weekend event that includes military displays, concerts, children’s activities, Huey rides, archery contests and concessions. msvietnammemorial.com/Tupelo/Home.html

September 26-27 New Albany Tallahatchie Riverfest Art fair, children’s activities, green market and concerts by John Anderson and Cowboy Mouth. On the banks of the Tallahatchie River in downtown New Albany, Miss. tallahatchieriverfest.com

October 4 Okeelala Festival Baldwyn’s 35th-annual community festival features a classic car show, arts and crafts vendors, a children’s talent show, a lawn mower pull and more. Latimer Park, Baldwyn, Miss.

October 10 Chili Festival Downtown Tupelo Main Street Association hosts the 15th-annual Chili Festival. Four-person teams will vie for the ultimate “Make You Wanna Slap Your Mama Good!” prize. 11:30 a.m.-10:30 p.m., Broadway Street. tupelomainstreet.com

October 11 Marching Band Festival The 44th-annual Mississippi High School Activities Association Region I Marching Band Festival takes place at Tupelo High School’s Renasant Field. 9:50 a.m.-5 p.m., with a nighttime competition from 7-9 p.m. Tickets sold at the gate. $8 for the day; $7 for the night; $12 for both.

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events Dance Like the Stars View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

Local celebrities performed ballroom dance routines at Dance Like the Stars, an annual fundraiser event for Boys & Girls Clubs of North Mississippi, held Aug. 16 at BancorpSouth Arena. The Edd Jones Orchestra accompanied the routines as well as open dancing.

Torrie Robertson, Alyssa Martin, Lori Pitts Anger and Felicia Pollard

Zack and Rhonda Chennault

Taylor Kitchens, Jenea Britton, Kara James and Judd Wilson

Emily and Wendy Harms

Wade and Brooke Ellis

Tammy Wilson and Jason Harms

Tiffany and Jimmy Seawright with Shannon Clark

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Scott and Amanda Angle with Amber Moyer

Jim and Julianne Goodwin

photographed by Lisa Roberts

Donita and Madi Martin

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Bruce Patel and Stephanie West September 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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photographed by Lisa Roberts

events A Southern Belle Primer View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

Tupelo Community Theatre staged A Southern Belle Primer, a comedy by Ted Swindley, Aug. 21-23. For more information on upcoming auditions and productions, including The Spitfire Grill, ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas and Father of the Bride, visit tct.ms.

Melanie Deas and Nan Lawrence

Sally Amos, Jolie Reid, Victoria Derveloy and Teresa Gregory

Rebekah Wilson and Toni Gough

Susan Wright Roberts, Lynn Nelson and Jessica Nelson

Penny Nichols, Cammy Laughlin, Beth Holliman and Donna Rumbarger

Mitch Fly with Mae and Michelle Barnes

Linda Barker with Jim and Loretta Hettler

Mollye Walsh and Mary Baxter

Layla Taylor, Sherrie Black and Erin Beall

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In-Home Senior Care Services

When the time comes, we have the perfect place for your loved one

Agape Senior Living

WE ARE COMFORT KEEPERS Our mission is to provide our clients with the highest level of quality of life that is achievable.

We shall treat each of our clients with the respect and dignity they deserve, as though we were caring for a member of our own family.

(662) 841-8477 www.ComfortKeepers.com An international network of independently owned and operated offices © 2009 CK Franchising, Inc.

Oaktree Manor Assisted Living 60139 Cotton Gin Port Road, Amory, MS 38821

Countrywood Manor Assisted Living 145 Watson Dr. Mantachie, MS 38855

Pre-booking now for Northeast Mississippi’s exclusive Alzheimer’s Assisted Living Facility.

Church Street Manor Personal Care Home 36 Elm Lane, Ecru, Ms 38841

Contact: 662.322.4636 • info@agapesl.com September 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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photographed by Lisa Roberts

events Arts, Beats and Eats View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

Arts, Beats and Eats was held Aug. 1 at In Bloom’s event hall in New Albany, Miss. The juried art show also featured live music and food from local restaurants. It was recently recognized as “Best Art Event” by the Mississippi Main Street Association.

Carolyn Davis, Mable Waldrop, Alee Nichols and Brandi Bridges

Cameron Stout, Laura Windham and Mindi Stout

Lisa Hollenstein, Charles Smith and Jill Headings

Norris Caldwell and Lowry Wilson

Mike and Micha Foster with Justin Treadaway

Margaret and Jerry McLennan

Chelsea Floyd and Savannah Minnick

Devin Windom and Sylvester McKinley Jr.

Brenda Fortune and Molly Beth White

Kim Surber and Ellen Ford

Specializing In: Creative Hair color, brazilian Blowout, spa pedicures, Treatments, Sahag Dry Cuts, DermAware Facial & Microdermabrasion, Shellac Polish & Therapeutic massage

Now offering:

Air Brush Makeup for Special Events Holli Duffie, Megan Gale, Lindsay Henry, Candice Parker, Dawn Dyson, Ginger Carson, Shana Tatum,

662-205-4683 • 1004 Commonwealth Blvd. Tupelo, MS 38804

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Come see Lindsey Johnso n LMT#2112 for your therapeutic mas sage

PARK PLACE

D E N TA L

Wishing the Rebels a Great 2014 Football Season!

offering the latest in dental imaging technology, the i-cat, a cone beam 3-d dental imaging system.

Ken Goodwin DMD Christine Rayburn DMD Amy Scopel DMD Carla Cole DMD

Family dentistry • Implants Cosmetic dentistry • Conscious sedation Crowns and veneers in a day with CEREC Open Monday - Friday 8-5 662-728-8171 403 North 3rd St. Booneville, MS 38829 www.parkplacedentists.com

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photographed by Lisa Roberts

events Elvis Presley Fan Appreciation Day View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

Elvis fans from around the world gathered Aug. 9 at the Elvis Presley Birthplace for the annual fan appreciation day, which included lunch and live music by Kay Bain and Elvis tribute artist David Lee. The event coincided with the start of Graceland’s Elvis Week.

Lorraine and Tony Benison with David Wade and Colin and Linda Strickland

Ben Thompson and Shirley Scott

Jessie Wall, Emily Hopkins and Polly Adkins

Don Lewis, Guy Harris and Henry Dodge

Donna Kay Randle, Blair Hill and Sara Palmer

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Emmanuelle Bertaudiere and Florent Hostalier

Seeing is Believing Miss nothing this fall! Focusing on your target is easier with high quality shades that protect your eyes. Costa sunglasses come in a variety of lens and frame colors. Seeing results at Wesson & Mothershed Danny Cash is wearing Costa Del Mar sunglasses Style – Double Haul, Color – Camo green

Matthew B. Wesson, M.D. Fred H. Mothershed, O.D. Dax M. Eckard, O.D. Beth W. Eckard, O.D. Sonya M. Miles, M.D.

3353 North Gloster n Tupelo, Mississippi 844-3555 or 1-800-280-7372 n www.wandmeyes.com September 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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photographed by Lisa Roberts

events Good Samaritan Free Clinic Roast View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

The Dr. Walter and Tommie Bourland Annual Roast to benefit the Antone Tannehill Good Samaritan Free Clinic was held Aug. 12 at Summit Center. Dr. Wayne Slocum was this year’s honoree, and the event raised more than $100,000 for the clinic.

Pat and Jennifer Caldwell

Cindi Baldwyn, Eileen Sharp, Sherri Hodges, Sharon Gallaway, Lorrie Gillentine, Kelly Curtis, Suzanne Smith, Michelle McCarver and Karen Lansdell

Chris and Holly Rogers with Kim and Joe Estes

Pete and Belva Poland

Mike and Marsha Tapscott

t es USA w Lo s in ce Pri

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Bob Sims, Scott Reed, Charles Bouldin and James Warren

INVITATION TUPELO | September 2014

Theresa and Greg Goldberg

Mary and Glen Thomas

Greg and Leslie Burks with Yvette and Wayne Slocum

Terry Bullard and Richard Heyer

$15-$20 Off (per gallon)

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Visit

Downtown Baldwyn 3 5 TH A N N U A L

105 E Main Street

101 West Main Street

103 B East Main Street

Houston Pharmacy

saturday,

0 ctober 4 th

110 East Main Street

101 East Main Street

294 East Prentiss Street

103 South Second Street

114 West Main Street

290 Prentiss Street

5K RUN at 8AM | KIDS’ CORNER at 9AM

PAGEANT REGISTRATION at 9AM

CAR SHOW JUDGING at 12PM

LAWN MOWER PULL at 10AM and 12PM BINGO at 2PM | COW PATTY RALLY at 3PM

LIVE MUSIC ALL DAY!

SHARE YOUR FAVORITE MOMENTS USING #OKEELALAFEST VISIT WWW.BALDWYNLIVING.COM OR CALL 662.365.1050 FOR MORE INFO

photographed by Lisa Roberts

events Wine, Women and Wealth View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

Renasant Wealth Management held Wine, Women and Wealth to help educate and empower women on making decisions to secure their financial futures. The event, organized

by Gabrielle Cooper and Carrie Wood, took place Aug. 19 at Tupelo Country Club.

Haley Williams, Carrie Wood, Angela Puleo and Gabrielle Cooper

n o i t i d lE o o h c S

Book, music and lyrics by

Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey

Directed by Karen Davis

Oct.

Brittany Griffin, Kayla Jones, Danielle Garmon, Morgan McGonagill and Jana Steele

Oct. Melba Williams and Toni Floyd

Amy Littleton and Kathy Beasley

Tricia Cockrell and Sonja Jenkins

Shelley Key Russell, Amanda Clay and Katy Miller

Betty Bethan and Janice Trawick

Karen Hodges, Cathy Fitzpatrick and Joy Johnson

Grease is presented by special arrangement with Samuel French, Inc., New York, NY.

For Tickets Call: 662.706.1219 Special Thanks to Our Sponsor:

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photographed by Lisa Roberts

events MSU Football Fan Day View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

Mississippi State University hosted Football Fan Day Aug. 24 at Davis Wade Stadium. The annual event included tours of the renovated and expanded stadium, autographs from coach Dan Mullen and players, and appearances by MSU mascots and cheerleaders.

Ken Whitfield and Candice Tolbert

Bali Leffall Young, Lourdes M. Rosario, Katlyn Mataya, Alex Warren and Payton Harris

Caroline Ketchings with Whitney, Clay and Tobias Taylor

Kendall Simpson, Hayden Houston and Taylor Dearman

Ellen Stuart, Ericka Timberlake, Tyra Long and Leticia Valente

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Taelyr Souza and Ashton Washington

Bully with Khloe and Allison Coggin

Brooke Bibel and Kyle Grider with Tom and Amy Katherine Power

SHARE YOUR EXCITING NEWS WITH A

BRIDAL ANNOUNCEMENT

ENGAGEMENT

THIRD PAGE, $50 Includes one picture and 100-150 words.

WEDDING

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) 234-4008 or email hallielandonmarshall@gmail.com.

Historic Downtown Tupelo 662.842.6453 Mall at Barnes Crossing 662.842.5287 reedsms.com September 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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Renowned interior designer KENN GRAY has starred on television and traveled the world, but he’s returning to Tupelo to launch his line of home goods.

by Emily Gatlin photographed by Joe Worthem

W

hen Booneville, Miss., native Kenn Gray decided to attend Otis College of Art and Design in Los Angeles, he wanted to break into the fashion design industry. Instead, he realized he had a natural eye for interior design.

“Design is design,” Gray said. “I was just innately born with being able to have a clear vision when I walk into a space of what it

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needs to be, based on current trends, attitudes and classic style.”

As star of the Travel Channel’s show Travel Spies, Gray saw how design trends were evolving worldwide. “Having the opportunity to travel all over the world really was one of the most wonderful experiences of my life,” Gray said. “As a designer, seeing how other people live in different cultures is invaluable

to me. I travel as much as possible.”

Gray’s new line of home decor products, Kenn Gray Home, combines his love of travel with his Mississippi upbringing.

“I’m a very nostalgic person, and very family oriented,” Gray said. “From a design point of view, my designs have always had a juxtaposition between a nostalgic notion, or nod to the past, and a contemporary look or

attitude. I really love those opposing forces in my work. Growing up in the South gave me an appreciation for the past that I’m not sure that being raised in a big city could have.”

Throughout his life, Gray has had a philanthropic mindset, and he has found a way to give back through his Kenn Gray Home products. Gray features an item designed for a celebrity each month, and 10 percent of the September 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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sales from the product go to the celebrity’s charity of choice. His first featured item, the “Chad” lamp, is inspired by Chad Allen, star of the long-running Dr. Quinn Medicine Woman.

In October, Gray will offer a mirror designed with Charlotte Ross, best known for her role as Eve Donovan on Days of Our Lives. For the third featured item, Gray will partner with Vincent Irizarry from All My Children.

Additionally, Kenn Gray Home’s Artisan Collection features one-of-a-kind pieces cre­ ated by Gray’s personal friends, with a portion of the proceeds going to the artist’s charity.

“The pieces I’m picking are in line with the Kenn Gray Home aesthetic, so they’re things I would put in a client’s home,” Gray said.

Gray now lives in Paducah, Ky., with his wife, Kendra, and son, Fynnton. Their homestead, Gray Manor, is a constant work in progress. “As a designer, the bane of my existence is once I get a room done and go into the next one, I’m already ready to redo the first one,” he said.

Kenn Gray Home products are available at kenngrayhome.com, and on Oct. 18, Gray will launch the full product line with a small boutique space at the Farmhouse in downtown Tupelo. “One look and we knew we wanted Kenn Gray Home at the Farmhouse,” said co-owner Bev Crossen. “Just one of his pieces can change the entire look of a room.”

“We both are very excited about this,” Gray said. “At the onset of Kenn Gray Home, it was important to me that I not only have an online presence, but I wanted people to be able to go look, touch and feel my products.

I gleaned so much of who I am from north Mississippi, so I think it’s only fitting that the first introduction of the product line would be there.”

The Farmhouse’s Kenn Gray Home launch event will take place 2-4 p.m. Oct. 18 at the store, 126 W. Main St., Tupelo. For more information, call 662-269-2934.

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PRODUCT PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRAD RANKIN

“I GLEANED SO MUCH OF WHO I AM FROM NORTH MISSISSIPPI, SO I THINK IT’S ONLY FITTING THAT THE FIRST INTRODUCTION OF THE PRODUCT LINE WOULD BE THERE.” -KENN GRAY

Booneville, Miss., native Kenn Gray has launched a line of home goods that includes furniture, pillows, wall art, lighting and other accessories. Many of the pieces add modern flair to traditional furnishings.

“Kenn Gray Home offers the perfect match of contemporary and classic, with beautiful color, pattern and quality workmanship,” said Bev Crossen, co-owner of the Farmhouse, which will begin selling Kenn Gray Home items at its downtown Tupelo store in October.

The line is also available online at kenngrayhome.com.

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Periodontics and Dental Implants Dr. Michael M. Perry • Dr. Brenda L. Fowler Oxford • Bartlett • Collierville • Southaven • Memphis

Dr. Perry and Dr. Fowler have a periodontal practice with an emphasis on Dental Implants, the Treatment and Management of Periodontal Disease (Gum Disease) in a relaxed setting.

Perry and Dr. Fowler have a periodontal practice with an phasis on DENTAL IMPLANTS, the TREATMENT and MANAGEMENT PERIODONTAL DISEASE (GUM DISEASE) in a relaxed setting.

To schedule your implant evaluation appt. please call today 866.667.4867

Dr. Perry, Dr. Fowler, and their staff are happy to schedule you for a periodontal evaluation and/or a no cost implant consult.

RRY, DR. FOWLER, AND THEIR STAFF ARE HAPPY TO SCHEDULE YOU FOR A ERIODONTAL EVALUATION AND/OR A NO COST IMPLANT CONSULT.

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Each of these former professional athletes has found that life after the big leagues offers the best opportunity to leave a legacy.

by Melanie Crownover photographed by Joe Worthem

Playing professional sports is the ultimate dream for budding athletes – and the Tupelo area has its fair share of players who have made it to the pros. After finishing their professional careers, STEVE DILLARD, JASON SMITH AND KIRK PRESLEY have made their homes in north Mississippi and now use their skills to teach and encourage young people to reach their dreams.

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After a 25-year career as a player, coach and manager in major and minor league baseball, Steve Dillard returned to his hometown of Saltillo, Miss.

He now heads up the Parks and Recreation department.

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STEVE DILLARD Steve Dillard is Saltillo Parks and Recreation’s secret weapon. Few people realize the experience the operations director relies on as he schedules games, places players, finds referees or coaches, and selects all-stars for the organization’s array of sports.

“I’ve had a few parents and players over the years bring in my card or recognize me, but most have no idea I ever played pro ball,” he said. “I’m just another guy who helps keep the games rolling around here.”

Dillard, who has been with the department six years, spent 28 years in professional baseball before he came back to his hometown in 1995.

His baseball career began in his backyard with his dad, and he participated in almost every sport offered while attending Saltillo High School. He played baseball at Ole Miss for two years before the Boston Red Sox drafted him in 1972.

Dillard was a utility player throughout his career in the major leagues, playing second base, shortstop and third base. He had his best season in 1982 with the Chicago Cubs, when he hit .282 and was named the National League Player of the Week and Cubs Player of the Month.

He finished his career in the minor leagues where he spent 17 years as a manager, hitting coach and infield instructor with the White Sox, Astros, Cubs and Cardinals.

“I don’t do any coaching now, but that knowledge of the game comes in handy when working with coaches and players in our various sports,” Dillard said. “It’s fun to make the rounds to the different fields while they’re playing and see how the sport is still growing here.

And if any coaches ask about fundamentals, I can help. I love coming to work every day.”

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After playing professional basketball in several leagues around the world, Jason Smith retired with a torn hamstring in his late 20s. He made his home in Tupelo and now coaches young men in the Police Athletic League basketball program.

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International professional basketball player Jason Smith put his skills right to work when he moved to Tupelo in 2007.

“Once I found out what they were doing here [at the Police Athletics League], I had to volunteer. It helps to get those fundamentals early,” he said.

PAL provides basketball training to hundreds of boys ages 7-18 every year with both after-school coaching and a competitive league in the summer.

Growing up in a small Arkansas town, Smith didn’t play on an organized team until he was a high school freshman. He played basketball for four years at the University of Mississippi, and then he was recruited to travel to Iceland to play a year of pro ball. A fractured ankle brought him back to Ole Miss to work further on his degree, and he didn’t play basketball for more than three years.

“This man [Herman Payton] who worked for the university asked me at the gym why I wasn’t playing one day and said if I wanted to become a better shot to meet him back there at 5 in the morning,” Smith said. “That man had me doing a 5-mile run and 600 shots a day, but I was back in the league in five months.”

Over the next several years, Smith played for the World Basketball Association, American Basketball Association and International Basketball League in countries from Canada to Romania to Venezuela to Belgium.

In 2012 he served as associate men’s basketball coach at Itawamba Community College, and he just finished his first season as a coach for PAL. His team finished the season with a 15-4 winning record and a July championship win in Little Rock, Ark. “It’s about way more than just basketball here. We teach responsibility, respect, discipline and helping others,” Smith said. “I know from experience that one positive influence can make the difference.”

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September 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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Former New York Mets baseball player and Tupelo native Kirk Presley has coached Little League and American Legion baseball teams in Tupelo for years, and many of his players have gone on to play college and professional baseball.

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INVITATION TUPELO | September 2014

KIRK PRESLEY Former New York Mets pitcher Kirk Presley found his second calling coaching young baseball players after returning to Tupelo.

Presley had a 37-1 career record as a pitcher at Tupelo High School, winning two state championships in school and another two with the American Legion’s summer league.

He spent five years in professional baseball after the Mets drafted him in the first round in 1993, but a shoulder injury cut his time on the field short.

Presley came back home when he left the Mets. Although he found a full-time job in sales, the now-39-year-old wasn’t ready to give up baseball for good.

“I knew I wouldn’t be completely finished with the game when I came back,” he said.

“Part of the reason I wanted to coach is because I was fortunate to play at a high level with some very talented people, and I hoped I could pass something on to the players that could help them go as far as they can.”

He coached Little League for two years before agreeing to assist with the senior American Legion baseball teams he played on as a teen.

That role soon turned into a long-term coaching opportunity.

Presley is in his 12th year coaching the 19 and under league, leading his latest team to a 21-12 season ending as state champions.

Many of Presley’s players go on to college ball, and a few have made the pros, including Brian Dozier of the Minnesota Twins, Mitch Moreland of the Texas Rangers, and recent Houston Astros rookie recruit John Gatlin.

“I’ve found out it’s even more rewarding as a coach watching these guys win championships together and celebrate those moments they may not realize are the ones they’ll remember the rest of their lives,” Presley said. “I know I run into former teammates from 20-plus years ago, and those are still what we talk about.”

Dr. Trice W. Sumner, Diplomate, The American Board of Pediatric Dentistry 1555 Medical Park Circle, Tupelo, MS 38801

childrensdentalclinic.com

Be Envied !

•Walk-ins Welcome •Gift Certificates Available 662-844-2477 431 North Gloster St. Tupelo, MS www.shearenvytupelo.com September 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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Endocrine & Metabolic Disorders Institute, PLLC 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

These Tupelo-raised college athletes are getting breaks in the big leagues.

JOHN GATLIN

Former University of Mississippi infielder John Gatlin knew his life would change when he pinch-hit a winning RBI single against Texas Tech during the College World Series in June; he just didn’t realize how quickly it would happen.

A MLB scout contacted Gatlin two days after he returned home from the tournament.

After throwing several pitches that the scout clocked between 91 and 95 miles per hour, the 23-year-old officially signed with the Houston Astros.

Gatlin’s parents dropped him off for his first solo flight the next day. His destination was the Astros’ rookie Gulf Coast League training facility in Kissimmee, Fla. “I never pitched growing up or in college, but that’s always been in my back pocket.

When they called, I said I would play in any position they needed me in,” he said. “This is a whole new game for me now, not just because I’m playing at a higher level; I’m seeing it all from a new position.”

Gatlin played shortstop in high school and at Itawamba Community College.

Although he signed with Ole Miss as a potential pitcher, coaches needed his talents elsewhere.

He played only 30 games during the 2014 college season because of an injury. Then that game-winning hit in the College World Series changed everything.

Now he practices and plays games every day except Sunday, when he rests his pitch­ing arm.

“I’ve dreamt of this my whole life,” Gatlin said. “I can’t imagine a better place for an underdog like me to start than in the rookie leagues.”

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INVITATION TUPELO | September 2014

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF MSU MEDIA RELATIONS

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF JOSHUA MCCOY/OLE MISS ATHLETICS

ALLY McDONALD

This has been a landmark year for Mississippi State University golfer Ally McDonald. The women’s golf team begins its new season in September, but the college senior spent the summer swinging her way toward a professional career with a trip to the U.S. Women’s Open and representing the U.S. in the Curtis Cup. McDonald ended last season as the second MSU student to earn multiple first-team All American honors from the Women’s Golf Coaches Association. She began golfing with a shortened 3-iron in her Tupelo backyard as a toddler.

She started lessons at age 12 with current swing coach V.J. Trolio after she moved to Fulton, Miss. Her first congratulatory note from a college recruiter came by seventh grade.

McDonald was the only female on a traditionally all-boys’ golf team at Itawamba Agricultural High School, and she became the only female winner of a Mississippi State Boys Amateur Championship.

“There was no girls’ team, but the boys were probably more intimidated than I was because I used them to push myself. I think playing with them and having to hit longer to hold my own motivated

me to be a lot better player,” she said.

At the end of her junior year, the lifelong Bulldogs fan committed to MSU. McDonald has set many records at the university since her arrival, including most birdies in a season and lowest single-season stroke average in MSU history last year. The 21-year-old also led her team to its second NCAA tournament in a row, placing sixth overall.

McDonald also won the Old Waverly Bulldog Invitational and the North & South Amateur Invitational and placed fourth in the NCAA Women’s Invitational last year. And although her scores weren’t what she’d hoped for in her Women’s Open debut, she still plans to pursue the pros.

“That first pro tournament was a learning experience that I took a lot away from. I’m at a point in my game now where I want to fine-tune and get better at everything I do,” she said. “I look forward to going pro, but right now, my focus is on being a leader for my team and taking it one day at a time.”

McDonald is ranked 13th in the world and in the U.S. top 10 by Women’s Amateur Golf Ranking.

September 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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photographed by Lisa Roberts

events Saltillo High School Football Home Opener View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

Saltillo High School hosted Pontotoc High School in its first home football game of the season Aug. 29, and participants in the high school’s mini-cheer camp performed at the game. Saltillo won the non-conference game against Pontotoc, 39-7.

Brooke Chidester, Michaiah Romito, Addie Priest, Mary-Mize Knight, Jillian McCollum and Anna Meryn Gable

Bradley Witherspoon, Emily Barnes and Wesley Padilla

Clay Knight, Chris Rial, Beth Warren, Cathy Hudson, Mark Hudson, Shelly Warrington and Stephanie Collum

Sarah Rachel Dulaney, Emma Owens and Alison Kenney

Taylor Crockett, Charlie Googe and Sloan Wallis

P.J. Sheffield and Austin Bond

Ally Grace Johnson, Cara Cox and Sadie Claire Stewart

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INVITATION TUPELO | September 2014

Laurie Grace Byrd and Bella Grace Carter

Justina McCollum, Millie McKissick and Anna Caroline May

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.

Bodock l a v i t s e F Downtown Pontotoc Friday Sept. 26th

Saturday Sept. 27th

Music by

The Bouffants September 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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photographed by Lisa Roberts

events Tupelo Furniture Market View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

The fifth-annual Furniture, Gift and Home Accessories Show was open to Tupelo residents during Tupelo Furniture Market’s Aug. 14-17 Fall Market. This year’s event included fundraising opportunities for local schools and charities, a health fair and live entertainment.

Jimmy and Kay Cayson with Colin and Jennifer Sprayberry

Wanda Johnson, Zachary Johnson and Emilee Bennett

Candy Hall and Katie Taylor

Deb Pyle, Sheryl Blackburn, Sara Powell and Carol Filgo

Carolyn Robison, Betty Caldwell and Diane Hood

Evelyn Pritchard, Dick Daugherty and Melissa Kelly

Shannon Carroll, Jeremy Loden and Kristen Jennifer and John Malott Walls

Kay Pittman, Heather Moore and Mary Frances Abbott

www.BarkleyTravel.com

A Smoky Mountain New Year’s Eve

Niagara Falls Festival of Lights (December 1-6, 2014)

(Dec 29, 2014 – Jan 1 , 2015) • Three nights lodging in Pigeon Forge • Country Tonite Show • The Grand Majestic Theater • Applewood Farmhouse Dinner • The Wood Grill Dinner Buffet • Dinner at The Old Mill Restaurant • 3 Breakfasts • Shopping at the Outlet Malls • Guided tour of the Smoky Mountains

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

INVITATION TUPELO | September 2014

• Lodging in Cincinnati, OH (to & from Niagara Falls) • Three nights lodging in Niagara Falls, Ontario • Three buffet breakfasts • Skylon Tower Dinner • ”Oh Canada Eh” Holiday Dinner Show • Tour of Niagara Falls Area • IMAX Movie – “Niagara – Miracles, Myths & Magic” • Niagara-on-the-Lake featuring a winery tour with sampling • Chocolate FX (Factory tour & sampling) • Festival of Lights Tour • Local escort

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

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Special Occasions by

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Making your day stress free. Offering event

coordinating, wedding planning and special gifts.

662.401.0209 • 662.620.7262 eventplanningbydenisetupeloms.com brown102@comcast.net

September 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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photographed by Lisa Roberts

events Boots, Bluegrass & BBQ View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

Sanctuary Hospice House’s Junior Auxiliary put on its Boots, Bluegrass & BBQ fundraiser event Aug. 23 at The Antler. The evening included a barbecue tasting dinner by area barbecue teams and music by local bluegrass band Breaking Grass.

Cole Wiygul, Daniel Owen, Bryan Ellis, Johnny Burk and Ruff Thomas

Heather Palmer and Patricia Mitchell

Toni Sams and Katie Pannell

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INVITATION TUPELO | September 2014

Leanne Earls, Allie Lee, Carol Ann Padgett and Madeline White

Don Kelly Stewart and Jordan Beane

Holly Whitworth and Aymber Warren

Kory Hunter, Angelia Thomas and Erin Stubbs

Amanda and Nancy Farrar with Jennifer Parrish

Holly Kulp, Molly Tanner, Blythe Lollar and Amy Fagan

Harris Rhea, Kyle Rogers and Hank Hutto

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662-407-0026 www.phifabrics.com 2020 South Gloster, Tupelo, MS September 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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photographed by Lisa Roberts

events Young Lawyers Association Golf Tournament for S.A.F.E. View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

The Lee County Young Lawyers Association held a golf tournament Aug. 25 at Big Oaks Golf Club in Saltillo, Miss., to benefit S.A.F.E. Inc., which provides shelter, counseling, advocacy, and support to victims of domestic violence and sexual assault and their children.

LeAnn Ladner and Brandy Davis

Dorothy Bateman, Sonja Hamilton, Shirley Lawrence and Dena Waldo

Danny and Krissy Nobile

Morris Miley, Matt Clayton, Kenneth Greer and Thomas Wells

Jim McCarty, John Ball, Dayton Dennington and Matt Laubhan

Jason Herring, Trent Kelly, Jon Newman and Michael Chapman

Jake Heyer, Ricky Orr, Brian Ponder and Stephen Flynn

Brent Waldrop and Josh Hutcheson

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Jon, Brandon, Barry and Mayor Jason Shelton

INVITATION TUPELO | September 2014

Taylor Sanders and Reagan Wise

September 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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photographed by Lisa Roberts

events THS Community Tailgate View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

Tupelo High School football fans dressed in blue gathered Aug. 29 for a community tailgate before the team’s first home game against Center Hill High School. Renasant Field was dedicated just before the team took to its new, blue turf for the first time, winning 48-7.

Rachel Dudas, Rachael McGhie, Mary Elizabeth King, Courtney Pugh, Chappell Emmons and Mollie Clark Hudson

Madison Hamm, Lilla McGraw, Brooke McAuley, Reid Chapman, Hannah Sheffield, Mace Hudson, Karli Hill and Macy Replogle

Brandon and Beverly Knight

Emery Murff and Caroline Harris

D’Vasia Green and Parker Gailor

Kate Farabaugh and Sallie Kate Ray

Theresa Grisham, Rosanne Roberts, Mary Beth Cantrell, Tracy Malone, Beth Miller, Emily Hubbert and Shannon Ray

Krissy Hall, Jason Duran and Avery Ray

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INVITATION TUPELO | September 2014

Reggie Martin, Nicole Jennings Davis, Nick Davis, Adrian Brim and Jacob Davis

Melinda Lee and Elizabeth Pannell

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

Joshua E. Bostick, O.D. 662.869.1779 107 Town Creek Drive • Saltillo, MS 38866 visionsource-joshbostickod.com

HOURS: Tuesday–Friday 9 a.m.–5 p.m.

Saturday 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

Sunday 1 p.m.–5 p.m.

Closed Mondays and Major Holidays

FREE ADMISSION! For more information, please call

662-256-2761

Email: bomiller@cityofamoryms.com suebrown@cityofamoryms.com 801 3rd Street South, Amory, MS 38821 September 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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WITH A MISSISSIPPI MODEL Saltillo native and MSU football alum Heath Hutchins is taking on the fashion world, modeling for big-name labels, including Ralph Lauren and Abercrombie & Fitch.

by Emily Gatlin photographed by Leon Dash and Bruce Weber

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INVITATION TUPELO | September 2014

A chance meeting with a photographer in 2012 led to an unexpected career change for Saltillo, Miss., native Heath Hutchins.

After a successful college career as a punter for Mississippi State University, Hutchins had his sights set on the NFL. When a spot with the New York Jets didn’t pan out, he moved home and began mentoring Tupelo High School player Reed Bigham. Bigham’s father, Hunter, had done some modeling work in the past, and his photographer friend made a trip to Tupelo to update his portfolio. For fun, Hutchins posed for a few shots. He landed modeling contracts almost instantly.

Hutchins stays busy with his new job as a rising star in the modeling industry, and sometimes he is so booked, he has one day off every two weeks. He has modeled for Ralph Lauren, Abercrombie & Fitch, Target and Amazon. He is sent all over the world on a weekly basis, but his favorite location so far has been right here in the United States. “I like outdoorsy stuff,” Hutchins said. “So the coolest place to me has

been Lake Tahoe. It was really pretty with the mountains and water. You could be on the mountains one day, in the water the next, and you could play golf, visit the casinos. It was like a little place built for Heath.”

During football season, Hutchins makes an effort to keep up with Mississippi State football. “I actually just got a new apartment,” he said. “And when I moved in I was swapping cable providers. I ended up not going with a lot of companies because they weren’t carrying the SEC Network or had no idea what it was. I’d just call the next company until I found one.”

Viewing from a distance can be difficult for any fan, especially a former player, so he tries to come home from New York to see as many games as he can in person. “Last year, I made it to three games,” Hutchins said, adding that he hopes to see more in person this year.

As a model, Hutchins may not know where his job will take him from one day to the next, but he is sure to be a constant in the industry for many years to come.

September 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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INVITATION TUPELO | September 2014

408 Washington Street, Booneville, MS 38829

662.728.4788 M-F 9-6 • Sat 9-2

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662.436.4016 137 BANKHEAD NEW ALBANY, MS 38652 www.bellissimoboutique.net 64

INVITATION TUPELO | September 2014

101 West Main • Baldwyn, MS • Monday-Friday 10AM- 6PM • Saturdays 10-4PM • 662.365.5200

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662.610.3705 111 EAST TROY STREET SUITE B TUPELO, MS 38804

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INVITATION TUPELO | September 2014

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INVITATION TUPELO | September 2014

662.538.5984 • 121 West Bankhead St. (Downtown New Albany)

September 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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Historic Downtown Tupelo 662.842.6453 • Mall at Barnes Crossing 662.842.5287 • reedsms.com TUPELO | September 2014 70 INVITATION

RUNWAY boutique

132 W BANKHEAD ST STE A • NEW ALBANY, MS 662.538.3337

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INVITATION TUPELO | September 2014

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INVITATION TUPELO | September 2014

Prentiss Street Baldwyn, MS • 662.365.8087 September 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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INVITATION TUPELO | September 2014

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photographed by Chasity Dees

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

Long-distance runners took to the streets of downtown Tupelo for Tupelo Running Club’s Tupelo Marathon and 13.1-miler on Aug. 31.

For more information on upcoming races and the local running club, visit tupelorunningclub.net.

Kate McCarty with Christy, Chris and Jackson King and Brooke Bentley

Andrea Harrell with Ginger and Leslie Howe

Dana and Colin Bonds

Kenny Rains with Kim and Terry Glover

Tracy Holland, Jennifer Johnson and Elizabeth Kelly

Connie Armstrong and Cindy Bailey

Mackenzie, Michelle and Mike Lail

J.R. Reynolds, Leigh Carr and Josh Tyner

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INVITATION TUPELO | September 2014

Hostess with the Mostess: The hostess with the most paying guests at her laser party for the month of September will win a Microplush Spa Wrap monogrammed with Bel Amour Laser Spa’s Logo.

Now booking skin tightening parties: Face & Abdomen.

GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE IN ANY AMOUNT Please Contact Jade for more details: 662.256.9331 ext. 207

Kellen, Jade & Amanda

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

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

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photographed by Lisa Roberts

events Mississippi Painter’s Society Art Show View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

An opening reception for the Mississippi Painter’s Society annual art show was held Aug. 1. The show was on display at GumTree Museum of Art throughout August, and the artwork was judged by artist Bill Wilson of Jackson, Miss.

John Armistead and Judy Tucci

Linda and Bill Wilson

Linda Riggan and Taylor Sellars

Annette Ballard and Juanita Smith

Dru Jolly and Shannon Hendrix

Angela Foster and Carolyn Watson

Karen Barclay, Daphne Works and Sarah Barclay

Jackie Ivy, Lucille Travis and Dee Bartholomae

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We are your Fall Color Experts.

Follow us on facebook for exclusive specials and Fall trends.

Trapp Candles

15% off

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

86 S. Thomas St. 662.620.1120

3425 W. Main St. Opening May 2014

901 S. Gloster St. Opening Soon

September 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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photographed by Lisa Roberts

events Meet the Raiders View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

Shannon High School football fans and families gathered at the school Aug. 21 for Meet the Raiders, a pep rally to kick off the season.

The team’s Aug. 22 home opener was a non-conference game against Aberdeen High School. Aberdeen won 42-19.

Precious Stallworth, Jana Comer, Beth Barnes, Tierney Mosley, Leeanna Walker, Barabbas Leasy, Amy Vanlandingham and Regena Freeman

Espantasia Edwards, Teiryne Miller, Brieyonna Shannon, Cantaja Finnie, Chel’c Witherspoon

Ken McVay and Kristi Loague

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(front) Tyshon Cooper, Cory Finnie, Tyler Pass, Davion Fields, Xavier Gardner and Chris Talley; (back) Kelly Gordon, John Morgan Coleman, Jevoris Clark, Jaylen Pounds, J.T. Loving, Quan Phelps and Teonta Thompson

Kyle, Mary Claire and Betsy Kelly with Cade Kilgore and Cooper Loague

Alyssa Kelly, Alexis Lunn, Carson Robbins and Emma Collins

Adrian Brim, Jaqueline Jennings, Jennifer Washington, Rachel Sisk and Ashley Pounds

INVITATION TUPELO | September 2014

Betsy Grubbs with Swayze and Carla Mooneyhan

Animal Care Center of Tupelo Animal Care Center of Tupelo

Animal Care Center “your other of Tupelofamily doctor” Animal Care Center of Tupelo

(662) 842-8707 5362 Cliff Gookin Blvd.

Tupelo, MS 38801 www.animalcarecenteroftupelo.net

Catering Good Eats

Small and large events across North Mississippi Weddings • Rehearsal Dinners 662-534-3250 New Albany, MS September 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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photographed by Lisa Roberts

events Boy Scouts Clay Classic View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

The Boy Scouts of America’s Yocona Area Council held its 20th-annual Clay Classic fundraiser Aug. 22-23 at Yocona Camp in Randolph, Miss. The event includes a 60-target competitive Elite Eagle shoot and a 100-target competitive Clay Classic shoot.

Charlie Brett and Mark Weathers

Julie Chambers, David Capers, Trey DuBard, John Cary, Rick Crone, Ruby Richey and Rick Chapman

Cary Russell, Kirk Wilburn and John Paul Brooks

Ronnie Howell and Jud Jernigan

Cliff Weeks, Stacy Simmons, Kevin Walls and Charlie Kinney

Clayton Asters, Greg Burks and Rick Maynard

Marshall Russell, Tom Dickey, Jason Beasley and John Russell

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INVITATION TUPELO | September 2014

Brad Miller and Lynn Bryan

Shawn Woy, Robert Martin, Nickle Smith and John Dean

Bob Klimek, Bryan Graham, Buddy Fairley and Jim Hunt

Danny Cash, Chase Farmer, Rick Bullock and Daniel White

Prentiss Street Baldwyn, MS 662.365.8087

Prentiss Street Baldwyn, MS 662.365.9876

September 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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photographed by Lisa Roberts

events Tupelo Health and Wellness Festival View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

The first Tupelo Health and Wellness Festival was held Aug. 23 at Veterans Park. The event included prizes, vendors sharing health care-related products and demonstrations by local fitness instructors. At sunset, there was a 5K run followed by live music.

Kaytlan Sisk, Princess Snow and Tina Le

Mandi Barber and Susan Presley

Roxie Clayton, Ginger Mark and Debra Kellett with Carter Robin Barnett and Stephanie Richardson and Bess

Liz Dawson, Reed Howie and Helen Boerner

Craig Bertelsen, Rhianna Snow and Tamara Anne Haire, DeDe Miley and Amy Michael Richardson

Diamond Brokers TUPELO

Diamonds • Jewelry • Gifts

Come see us. She’ll be glad you did.

“Big girls need big diamonds.”

- Elizabeth Taylor

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INVITATION TUPELO | September 2014

662.844.6955

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

www.tupelodiamonds.com

IS YOUR MAGAZINE

We want to hear your story ideas!

Dr. Phillip Graham, Optometrist

SHANNON & GRAHAM EYE CLINIC

Bill Seawright, Optician Melanie Sellers, Tech

662.489.4741 14 East Marion Street Pontotoc, MS 38863

Do you have a friend we should write about? Are you part of an organization that deserves a story? Is there a picture-perfect place we should photograph?

Submit story ideas to us at erwelly@gmail.com or by calling (662) 234-4008.

September 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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out and about HEALTHWORKS! KIDS NIGHT OUT

Julie Hill and Kathy Tucker with Grayson and Cullen Hobby

Skylar Partlow, Kayla Hawkins and Sydney Palmer

JUNIOR AUXILIARY’S SHINE

WESTON REED FOUNDATION GIVES FREE PHYSICALS

Massie Eckard and Emily Womack

Laine Lowery and Julie Laney

FOURTH-ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION AT CARON GALLERY

Carolyn Pillow, Pami Taylor and Kim Caron

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Barbara Eaton and Maryann Francis

Rene Horton, Rhonda Haynes and Donna Loden LOVE’S TRAVEL STOP SUPPORTS LE BONHEUR

Michael Breedlove, DeAnn Caldwell, Rylan Burns and Kelly Scott

DOWN ON MAIN: BOBBY RUSH CONCERT

Torris and Contanna Purnell ANIMAL CARE CENTER DAY OF PLAY

Mark Burleson, Malia Kreher, Mya Bobo and Waneisha Hadley with Maddie

Lei Lei, Linda and Chloe Seymore with Sable TUPELO NIGHT OUT WITH THE BEL AIR NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION

(front) Matt and Mary Liddy Wyatt, Joshua Beavers and Anne Bailey Thomas; (middle) Annabeth Wyatt, Charlie and Chris Potts, Liz Beavers, Jodie Osbirn, Angelia, Ruff and Emerson Thomas; (back) Markel Whittington and Sam Potts September 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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An annual marching band competition is a community tradition.

by Melanie Crownover

photographed by Lisa Roberts

Tupelo High School will host the 44th-annual Mississippi High School Activities Association Region I Marching Band Festival Oct. 11. The event brings marching bands from all over north Mississippi to take the field for the public and for judges who grade their performances, while THS band members, parents and alumni volunteer to keep the festival running smoothly.

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F

riday night football wouldn’t be the same without the sounds of marching bands.

But on one Saturday every October, more than two dozen north Mississippi marching bands take center field at Tupelo High School to strut their stuff before fans and judges.

Tupelo High School has hosted the Mississippi High School Activities Association Region I Marching Band Festival for 44 years. The one-day event brings bands from all over the area to the local field for graded performances.

“This is a source of pride for us,” THS band director Tim Matlock said. “Bands who aren’t even in our region petition to come here.

We have alumni who come back just to help for that day because they know what it means to our community.”

Around 200 parents also volunteer during the event, and THS band members help out when they’re not on the field performing.

Judges are brought in from out of state to rate each band as superior, excellent, good or fair.

The event culminates with the top 10 superior-ranking bands competing against one another. In 2013, Olive Branch High School’s band took first place.

The 2014 Marching Band Festival takes place Oct. 11 at Renasant Field at Tupelo High School and is open to the public, with tickets sold at the gate. The daytime competition is from 9:50 a.m.-5 p.m., and tickets are $8. The nighttime competition is from 7-9 p.m., and tickets are $7. Tickets for the entire festival are also available for $12.

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Toast OF THE Town The Antler, a 65-acre property that sat vacant for years, has been brought back to life as a space for formal events, weddings and fundraiser galas.

by Melanie Crownover

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photographed by Joe Worthem

Driving down the long gravel road to The Antler, it’s hard to imagine that the chic trio of buildings could have been anything else but the Southern events compound it is today.

The charm of the site’s Grey Manor, Grand Hall and Cottage blends effortlessly into the pecan-tree-speckled countryside.

“It’s such a special place, but it needed a lot of help when we got it because it had been vacant a few years,” owner Jennifer Shelton said. “We’re just glad to be able to give some life back to this land.”

Jennifer and Mark Shelton bought the 65-acre plot, once a horse camp for disabled children and adults, in June 2013 and spent six months clearing the overgrown landscape with their three teenage sons. The idea to revamp the former horse arena and cabins into special events spaces came as the family explored the property’s natural beauty.

The couple consulted with event rental businesses, photographers, caterers and florists before finalizing a floor plan. Construction began in November.

Even with Mark’s full-time job as an attorney and Jennifer managing her own business, the building process was a hands-on endeavor. The couple took time before work, during lunch breaks, after business hours and on weekends to work at the property.

Jennifer threw her creative powers into design and decoration while Mark made use of his woodshop and toolbox. They installed

The Antler opened in April and has been booked for special events ever since. In addition to its rustic Grand Hall, opposite, there are two more intimate indoor event spaces, as well as several charming areas for outdoor entertaining.

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“For The Neatest Yard Around”

www.SportsManLawn.com

662.844.6539

If you can dream it, we can create it, or we can even dream it for you.

144 South Thomas, Spanish Village Court, Suite 101-6, Tupelo, MS 38801

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662-680-4506

antique tin ceilings, created rustic wall sconces and built focal points, including Grand Hall’s barn doors and the cupola on its roof.

“I knew when she hatched this plan that there would be a lot of personal work invested in this place,” Mark said. “It was a lot to bite off for two people, but the results are something to see.”

The old open horse arena became the rustic Grand Hall, a 6,500-square-foot barn that accommodates up to 500 guests. White cast antlers hang above a handmade sliding carriage door entrance. French Empire chandeliers dripping with crystals dangle from the 20-foot ceilings, illuminating the Delta cypress walls with the help of antler pendant sconces. Antique tin tiles and mirrored refurbished doors define a lounge nook with white leather seating and a handmade slab and reclaimed wood wet bar. A caterer’s kitchen finishes the interior, while just outside, a small grassy area covered in twinkling lights connects the hall to the woods.

Grey Manor next door changed from a conference center to a stand-alone modern party site featuring a ballroom, a commercial kitchen, a bridal suite and upstairs groom’s accommodations. Mint-colored French doors mark the entrance to the 2,200-square-foot main hall fitted with wrought iron chandeliers.

GREY MANOR

The Antler’s Grey Manor, once a conference space, features a modern ballroom and an outdoor patio. Grey Manor has a bridal suite and upstairs groom’s accommodations, but The Antler also boasts a bunkhouse that has been transformed into a four-bed, four-bath guesthouse where wedding parties or families can spend the night.

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GRAND HALL

With its rustic decor and spacious interior, Grand Hall is The Antler’s pièce de résistance. Once a horse arena, the 6,500-square-foot barn now accommodates up to 500 guests for formal events. Owners Jennifer and Mark Shelton redesigned, renovated and rebuilt much of the property themselves in less than a year.

A courtyard and bench seating lies between Grey Manor and Grand Hall.

“We tried to make sure we had everything any bride or party planner could hope for here.

There’s even a rustic arbor down by the lake for outdoor vows and an antique car and rope tree swing that could make some great settings for pictures,” Jennifer said.

To make gatherings easier on guests, the Sheltons also transformed a two-bedroom camp bunkhouse into a four-bedroom, fourbath retreat with a commercial kitchen. The Cottage, which includes antique fixtures and original wood flooring, has a tin-roofed front porch overlooking the lake and horse enclosure.

The setup provides the perfect spot to relax and connect before or after an event.

As labor intensive as it was turning a former camp into a modern country venue in less than a year, the Sheltons’ schedule has been even busier since The Antler opened in April.

The calendar filled with events, from weddings and sorority formals to fundraisers for organizations such as Sanctuary Hospice House and Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital.

“We already had people booked all the way through 2015 before we finished the build,” Jennifer said. “There were times I questioned if this was doable, but there has been an amazing response because I think we’re filling a niche that was empty here. People don’t have to go out of town anymore to have a place like this to celebrate.”

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IN SEASON Pet Treats

by Melanie Crownover photographed by Joe Worthem

Glenda’s Whole Wheat Peanut Butter Dog Treats 2 cups whole-wheat flour ½ cup cornmeal or wheat germ ¼ cup flax seed, ground ½ cup natural peanut butter (not crunchy) 1 Tablespoon molasses 1 cup non-dairy milk (such as rice, almond or soy milk) Preheat oven to 375°F. Combine dry ingredients. In a separate bowl, mix the peanut butter and molasses. Stir in dry ingredients.

Stir in enough non-dairy milk to make a thick dough. Sprinkle flour on a cutting board, and roll out dough. Use cookie cutters to cut into desired shapes and bake 15-20 minutes, or less for smaller cookies.

Kitty Kat’s Vitamin Rich Dish

F

riends of the Tupelo-Lee Humane Society Kathy Bailey (pictured left) and Clarice Westmoreland (right) spent the spring compiling recipes for a cookbook they recently published to benefit the shelter.

Chow Time is a collection of 600 recipes for people and pets. Proceeds from the book go toward the TLHS building fund to construct a larger shelter.

Following are two of the most popular

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pet recipes in the book. The peanut butter dog treats are a favorite of Bailey’s 5-year-old English sheepdog, Marcus. The dough is easy to work with and can be stored in batches in the refrigerator using freezer bags.

“Marcus is my baby,” Bailey said. “Every morning he’ll go to the refrigerator where I keep them and watch the oven until these come out. They’ve replaced the peanut butter treats I used to buy him at the pet store.”

1/3 cup cottage cheese 2 Tablespoons Bisquick 1 Tablespoon liver, chopped 1 Tablespoon corn oil Dash of iodized salt Mix ingredients together. Makes about two servings.

To purchase a copy of Chow Time, contact Bailey at 662-322-9355 or 662-269-2512 or Westmoreland at 662-891-1135.

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

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INVITATION TUPELO | September 2014

BISCUIT

PHOTOGRAPHED BY LISA ROBERTS

Adoption is the best way to help stray animals. Stop by the Tupelo-Lee Humane Society at 2400 S. Gloster St., or visit tupeloleehumane.org to make a donation.

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September 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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TUPELO SPIRIT Patricia Neely-Dorsey

Tupelo native Patricia Neely-Dorsey has published two books of poetry inspired by the South, and in January, she’ll do a reading for representatives at the state Capitol in anticipation of her third release, Mississippi in Me.

Q: What is your approach to writing?

A: I consider myself more of a conduit than a writer. I wrote my first poem Feb. 14, 2007.

I woke out of a deep sleep with it in my head, and I had close to 300 two months later. I don’t force it. I just let them flow when they come, and write it down as fast as I can.

Q: How did you go from the mental health field to poet?

A: That was my job for 20 years after I got my psychology degree at Boston University.

I moved back to Tupelo in August 2007, and in early December an old friend of mine did a book signing at Reed’s. I showed him some of my poems, and he introduced me to his publisher. My first book was out that February.

Q: Where do you find inspiration?

A: A lot of my poems focus on country life and growing up here. I’m always on a soapbox about how great our state is.

Q: Have you always loved poetry?

A: My father is where I got my love of it. He used to recite to me while he was getting ready and shaving. His favorite was When Malindy Sings by Paul Laurence Dunbar. I think that’s where I get my rhythm because it’s very hoppy, upbeat and sing-song.

Q: Why is the magnolia a recurrent theme in your writing?

A: One of my co-workers in Memphis would always introduce me as “the Mississippi magnolia” . . . Now it represents me and what my writing is all about. interviewed by Melanie Crownover photographed by Joe Worthem

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