APRIL 2017
April 2017 | INVITATION TUPELO
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INVITATION TUPELO | April 2017
APRIL 2017
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ON THE COVER
FEATURES
EVENTS
28 Legacy Garden
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Sounds of Spring
This special shade garden has been the backdrop of family events for generations.
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Distinguished Citizen
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Blue Tie Affair
34 Beautiful Balance
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DPW Film Reception
IN EVERY ISSUE
The Clegg family’s home blends elegance and functionality in every room.
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Tupelo BBQ Duel
6
Letter From the Publisher
38 Planting Guide
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Run for Your Buns
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What’s Happening
50
Corinth Symphony
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Community Corner: The Arc
Know when to plant which vegetables this spring with help from our handy chart.
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Empty Bowls Luncheon
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In Season: Kudzu Bloom Jelly
40 Lofty Ideals
54
Blood Country Film Production
60
Out and About
56
A Novel Affair
64
Tupelo Spirit: Ann Hall
Corinth native Lanny Griffith has reinvented his hometown through historic preservation and restoration.
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Snowflake Ball
Fancy meets farmhouse in a recently renovated Tupelo home (see page 34). photographed by Joe Worthem
47 Best Seat in the House The McKissicks’ comfortable, oversized back-porch swing is a favorite spot for everyone in the family.
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PHOTOGRAPHED BY LISA ROBERTS AND JOE WORTHEM
THE PUBLISHER
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n 2008, my husband and I began an outdoor home project: to add a retaining wall, outdoor kitchen and pool to our yard. It was no small task, but after hours of planning, looking at other peoples’ similar projects (this was before Pinterest existed!), and searching home and garden magazines, we settled on a plan. It took almost a year to complete it to our specifications. Ultimately, it was the best thing we ever did. Our outdoor space is an extension of our home. And in the spring, summer and fall months, we probably spend more time outside than we do inside. Redecorating a home, planning a garden and landscaping a yard can be daunting tasks for families, especially when individual personalities and styles begin to compete. But, as we learned, all of that compromising often leads to beautiful and lasting results. In this magazine (and on the cover), we feature the home of the Clegg family, who allowed their different styles to complement each other when they renovated. The result is a stunning blend of rustic charm and luxurious elegance they get to enjoy every day.
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INVITATION TUPELO | April 2017
Clockwise from top left: Rustic meets luxurious in the Clegg home; a pathway leads to the lake in the Aguirre garden; a back-porch swing is special to the McKissick family; and kudzu blossoms are featured in a homemade jelly.
Another Tupelo couple, the Aguirres, worked together for decades to develop a shady backyard oasis that has become so meaningful it’s been the site of family weddings. And the McKissicks – a family of five – have agreed on their favorite family spot: an oversized porch swing that overlooks their beloved backyard. In these pages, you’ll also get tips from a master gardener who uses space in her front yard for her vegetable garden, and you’ll find a recipe for jelly made from kudzu blossoms. Don’t miss the planting guide on page 38,
which was created with help from the Mississippi State University Extension Service. Hopefully it will inspire you to plant something new in your yard or garden this year. We are excited to share this annual Home and Garden issue with you, our extended family. Enjoy!
RACHEL M. WEST, PUBLISHER
publishers
Phil and Rachel West
editorial
EDITOR IN CHIEF Emily Welly CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Lena Anderson EVENTS EDITOR Mary Moreton STAFF WRITER Melanie Crownover EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Katherine Henson COPY EDITOR Kate Johnson
advertising
ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS Alise M. Emerson Leigh Lowery Lynn McElreath Stacey Raper Moni Simpson Whitney Worsham ADVERTISING DESIGNERS Zach Fields Becca Pepper
art
CREATIVE DIRECTOR Hallie Thomas STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS Lisa Roberts Joe Worthem CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Whitney Worsham
production
PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Emily Suber
office
BUSINESS MANAGER Hollie Hilliard DISTRIBUTION Donald Courtney Brian Hilliard MAIN OFFICE (662) 234-4008 ADVERTISING INFORMATION ads@invitationtupelo.com
To subscribe to one year (10 issues) of Invitation Tupelo or to buy an announcement, visit invitationtupelo.com. To request a photographer at your event, email Mary at mary.invitation@gmail.com. Invitation Tupelo respects the many diverse individuals and organizations who make up north Mississippi and strives to be an inclusive representation of all members of our community.
PLEASE RECYCLE THIS MAGAZINE
April 2017 | INVITATION TUPELO
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APRIL 15 - MAY 15 THROUGH 5/17 Stones & Bones The North Mississippi Gem and Mineral Society exhibits unique finds from around the area at Oren Dunn Museum. Open 8 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays. Adult admission, $4; discounts offered for seniors, children and military. For more information, call 662-841-6438.
4/20
4/22
5/4-7
Participating downtown businesses stay open late and offer specials and wine-and-food pairings for this progressive wine-tasting event. 5-10 p.m., downtown Tupelo tupelomainstreet.com
Premiere Athletix hosts its second annual ruck (a hike, walk or jog with a weighted backpack, typically associated with U.S. military training). This year’s event offers 22-mile and 22K (13-mile) routes to raise awareness about PTSD and the 22 veterans who commit suicide daily. Many participants also carry a 22-pound sack (optional) while they make the trek. The event is free, but for $22 participants can purchase a commemorative T-shirt and receive a one-month membership to one of Premiere’s facilities. 7 a.m., Premiere Athletix, 1674 McClure Cove. For more information, search Ruck for Warriors on Facebook.
Antique and classic cars cruise into Tupelo for a weekend of car shows, contests, live entertainment and more. The weekend kicks off with a drive-in movie at 7:45 p.m. Thursday in the BancorpSouth Arena west parking lot. bluesc.com
Wine Downtown
4/21-22 Noleput
New Orleans-style street festival features food and beverage vendors and live music 6-10 p.m. Friday and 2:30-9 p.m. Saturday. Free admission, Fairpark. facebook.com/noleputtupelo
4/21-23
Beauty and the Beast Jr. Pied Piper Players presents Beauty and the Beast Jr. Tickets $7; $5 students. 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday. Church Street Elementary School Auditorium. Search Pied Piper Players on Facebook to learn more.
4/22
Color Vibe 5K This year’s Color Vibe fun run takes place in conjunction with the Noleput festival. A portion of the proceeds will go to a local charity. $65; children 12 and under participate free with a paid adult. 9 a.m., Fairpark. Register at thecolorvibe.com/tupelo.php.
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INVITATION TUPELO | April 2017
Ruck for Warriors
4/22
Master Gardener Plant Sale Lee County Master Gardeners hosts its spring plant sale fundraiser. 8 a.m.-noon, 5338 Cliff Gookin Blvd. An after sale takes place 10 a.m.-3 p.m. on April 24-25. leecountymastergardeners.com
4/27-29 Hairspray
Tupelo Community Theatre presents the Tony Award-winning musical Hairspray. Tickets $22; students $10. 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Friday and Saturday, and 2 p.m. Saturday. Lyric Theatre. tct.ms
Blue Suede Cruise
5/6
Corinth Green Market Corinth’s monthly market features local farmers, gardeners, artisans and craftspeople. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at the historic Corinth Depot. corinthgreenmarket.net
5/6
Coca-Cola Classic Held in conjunction with Corinth Green Market, the annual Coca-Cola Classic 10K race takes place in downtown Corinth. $25 registration fee. 8:30-10:30 a.m. corinthcoke.com/coke-10k
5/6
Kentucky Derby Party The 19th annual Derby party benefits Regional Rehabilitation Center. Includes a hat contest, heavy hors d’oeuvres, Derby dollars, and live and silent auctions. 3-8 p.m., 419 Robins St. Parking at Milam. For tickets, $40 per person or $300 for a table of eight, call 662-842-1891.
5/11
Northeast Mississippi Rose Society Annual Rose Show Annual rose show and competition takes place 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. (judging 10 a.m.-noon) in the Renasant Bank Atrium. Free and open to the public. To enter roses that morning, register at the front desk. For more information, call Tracy Shane Kramer at 662-489-1506.
5/13
Tupelo Farmers’ Depot Tupelo’s farmers market opens for the season. 3-6 p.m. Tuesdays, and 6 a.m.-noon Thursdays and Saturdays. tupelomainstreet.com
5/13
GumTree 10K/2K Tupelo Running Club’s annual GumTree run benefits Tupelo-Lee Humane Society. $35 for 10K runners; $15 for 2K runners. 8:30 a.m., Fairpark. gumtree10kand2k.racesonline.com
5/13-14
GumTree Festival The 46th annual GumTree Festival features more than 100 artists, a local food court and beer garden, a junior art market for high schoolers and a singer-songwriter competition. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday. The GumBash party takes place 7-10 p.m. Saturday at Watson Icehouse. gumtreefestival.com April 2017 | INVITATION TUPELO
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THE ARC
written by Melanie Crownover
Tupelo is home to the northeast Mississippi chapter of The Arc, a nationwide organization that advocates for and serves people with disabilities and their families. The national organization was started in the 1950s as a neighborhood support group for families of children with disabilities. Mississippi joined the national organization in 1961, and the northeast chapter started 10 years ago. The chapter is one of 12 in the state. It serves about 100 families with special needs in Lee, Tippah, Union, Prentiss and Pontotoc counties, working with individuals ages newborn and up with intellectual, physical, developmental, cognitive and/or emotional disabilities. The chapter, which functions as a nonprofit organization, meets the last Saturday of each month to offer resources and training to families. The group also hosts a monthly family game night and weekly open art sessions at OurArtworks studio on Clayton Street. Volunteers with the organization spend much of their time working with families in member homes and assisting with meetings at local schools for 504 plans and Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). They also provide information, peer support and referrals. Funding comes from donations, each member family’s $25 annual dues and funds raised through the annual Arc in the Park Picnic, which this year takes place 10 a.m.- 3 p.m. May 27 at Oren Dunn Museum. For more information on the picnic, volunteer opportunities or services offered, call 662-397-0097; email chapter president Cheryl Falzone at cheryl@arcnems.org; visit arcnems .org; or find The Arc of Northeast Mississippi Chapter on Facebook.
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KUDZU BLOOM JELLY written by Melanie Crownover photographed by Joe Worthem
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here’s only one crop at Pontotoc Ridge Blueberry Farm that Teresa Holifield picks from the upraised bucket of her blue tractor: kudzu. When she’s not harvesting blueberries by hand in the summer, she’s at the edge of her property filling brand-new garbage cans with the fragrant kudzu blossoms that grow on the vines. She uses the flowers to make kudzu jelly, a recipe she was given by a friendly stranger at a Memphis farmers market years ago. “There’s a reason [when I sell] my jelly jars I say, ‘I waded through the snakes for you to get those blooms,’ ” she said. “I used to just go into the kudzu in my boots. That’s dangerous work that gets you covered in chiggers to the waist. Now I take in the heavy equipment.” Kudzu blooms from late June through the early frost. Old wives’ tales say the blooms are a deterrent to drinking alcohol when ingested. Blossoms vary from a red shade in their earliest form to a light pink later in the season. Flowers must be picked shortly after they appear because they quickly go to seed, according to Holifield. “Everyone around here knows the vines can stop erosion by growing a mile a minute wherever you plant it,” she said. “It grows so fast I know people who won’t even leave their windows open at night around it, but the blooms are delicious. The jelly tastes a lot like a light plum or crabapple flavor to me.” Many restaurants use kudzu blossoms on their salads and to make simple syrups for cocktails. Holifield recommends her jelly as a sweet spread on bread, a twist in peanut butterand-jelly sandwiches and a sugar replacement in coffee.
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Kudzu Bloom Jelly 4 cups kudzu juice (see recipe below) ½ cup lemon juice 2 packages pectin 5 cups sugar 8 half-pint mason jars Put kudzu juice and lemon juice together in a pot on the stove, and bring to a boil. Add pectin, and bring back to a boil. Add sugar, stirring to keep from sticking, and bring to a third boil; cook 4 minutes, still stirring. Check the consistency with a spoon; when the mixture coats the spoon, it’s ready. Fill and seal hot mason jars according to instructions for canning. Jelly keeps for 6 to 8 months in or out of the refrigerator.
Kudzu Juice 4 gallons boiling water 4 gallons kudzu blooms Pour 4 gallons boiling water over kudzu blooms, and let steep overnight. Strain twice to make kudzu juice. Juice can be frozen to make batches of fresh jelly or other goods after the season is finished.
April 2017 | INVITATION TUPELO
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Gumtree TWIGS and Magnolia Business Centre Present the
Father Daughter Gumtree Ball 15th Annual
SATURDAY, JUNE 24, 2017 BancorpSouth Arena
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5:00 - 9:00 p.m.
I Downtown Tupelo
I After June 9th, $85.00 per couple Registration at lebonheur.org/gumtreeball I Limited seating available $60.00 per couple
Benefiting
www.tishomingofunhere.org
TISHOMINGO COUNTY COUNTY 2017 2017 Calendar Calendar of of Events Events TISHOMINGO UPCOMING EVENTS
MARCH 11 Boys & Girls Club Paddies Duathlon-Iuka April Annual Easter EggSt. HuntJP Coleman State Park MARCH 1115-Boys & Girls Club St. Paddies Duathlon-Iuka April 3rd Annual Day- State Park MARCH 1715-Crafts in theRenaissance park-JP Coleman MARCH 17 Crafts in the park-JP Coleman State Park Old Tishomingo County Courthouse APRIL 1 American Bass Anglers RAM Series Open Tournament-JP Coleman APRIL 1 American Bass Anglers RAM Series April 21- 2nd Annual Earth DayTish. State Open Park Tournament-JP Coleman APRIL 8 39th Annual Hollis Long/Archie Lee Memorial Ole’ Tyme Music Gathering-Tish.State Park April 22- Bass Tactics HighLong/Archie School Open Lee Memorial Ole’ Tyme Music Gathering-Tish.State Park APRIL 8 39th Annual Hollis TournamentJP Coleman plus annual Easter Egg hunt plus annual Easter Egg hunt April 22- Annual Swinging Bridge Trail APRIL 8 FLW Fishing Tournament-JP Coleman State Park Walk/Run-Tish. State Park Coleman State Park APRIL 8 FLW Fishing Tournament-JP APRIL 15 Annual Easter Hunt-JP Coleman State Park 4- National DayEgg of PrayerIuka APRILMay 15 Annual Easter Egg Hunt-JP Coleman State Park 6- FLW Fishing TournamentJP Coleman State Park APRILMay 15 3rd Annual Renaissance Day-old Tishomingo County Courthouse APRIL 15 3rd Annual Renaissance Day-old Tishomingo County Courthouse May 65th Annual Native American Customs APRIL 21 2nd Annual Earth Day-Tish. State Park APRIL 21 2nd Earth Day-Tish. StatePark Park & Annual Traditions FestivalTish. State APRILMay 22 Bass Tactics High School Open Tournament-JP Coleman 20- Rocking the River Festival-Eastport/Iuka APRIL 22 Bass TacticsonHigh School Open Tournament-JP Coleman APRIL 22 Annual Swinging Bridge Trail Walk/Run-Tish. State Park 3- 5th Annual National Trails DayWalk/Run-Tish. “Less Litter MoreState APRILJune 22 Annual Swinging Bridge Trail Park Beauty Hike”- Tish. State Park MAY 4 National Day of Prayer-Iuka MAY 4June National Day of Prayer-Iuka 10- Burnsville Fire Dept. Motorcycle Ride/ Fundraiser MAY 6 FLW Fishing Tournament-JP Coleman State Park MAY 6 July FLW4-Fishing Tournament-JP Tishomingo Coleman State Park Street Dance-Downtown MAY 6 5th Annual Native American Customs & Traditions Festival- Tish. State Park Fireworks & Movie in the Customs Park - CC& Shook Park - Belmont MAY 6 July 5th 4Annual Native American Traditions Festival- Tish. State Park MAY 20 Rocking on the River Festival-Eastport/Iuka MAY 20 Rocking on the River 662.423.0051 • Festival-Eastport/Iuka info@tishomingo.org JUNE 3 5th Annual National Trails Day “Less Litter More Beauty Hike”-Tish. State Park 101 Battleground Dr. Iuka, MSLitter 38852 JUNE 3 5th Annual National Trails Day “Less More Beauty Hike”-Tish. State Park JUNE 10 Burnsville Fire Dept. Motorcycle Ride/Fundraiser JUNE 10 Burnsville Fire Dept. Motorcycle Ride/Fundraiser JULY 4 Street Dance-Downtown Tishomingo TUPELO | April 2017 14 JULYINVITATION 4 Street Dance-Downtown Tishomingo JULY 4 Fireworks & Movie in the Park- CC Shook Park-Belmont
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April 2017 | INVITATION TUPELO
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View more photos at invitationtupelo.com.
SOUNDS OF SPRING Sanctuary Hospice House hosted a fundraiser March 25 at the Elvis Presley Event Center. The event featured dinner from Romie’s Grocery and a concert with six local performers. photographed by Lisa Roberts
Shirley Wheeler and Anne Jones
Michael Young, Louis Rowles and Nancy Pannell
Auston and Gena Nolan
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INVITATION TUPELO | April 2017
Heather Palmer, Sandy Nance and Tiwana O’Rear
Sarah Jenkins, Rud Robison, Marshall Jenkins and Betty Mayfield
Michelle Robinson, Louise Harris and Patricia Mitchell
Hal and Kristi Pluckett with Melody Asters and Harold Plunkett
Charlie and Barbara Mask
Ricky and Annette Kimbrell
April 2017 | INVITATION TUPELO
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View more photos at invitationtupelo.com.
YOCONA AREA COUNCIL DISTINGUISHED CITIZEN The Yocona Area Council Distinguished Citizen Dinner was held Feb. 21 at BancorpSouth Conference Center. The 2017 honoree was Country Music Award winner Mac McAnally. photographed by Lisa Roberts
Pat and Stormie Wooten
Dennis and Melissa Nolan
Brad Miller and Wesley Webb
Greg Wall, Kelly Martin and Mark Lovil
Tom Robinson, Mac McAnally, Ty Robinson and Joe Lewis
Rick and Kathy Beasley with Donnie Kisner
Duke Loden, Bill Rutledge and Ray Collins with Britt and Kyle Smith
Yocona Area Council Boy Scouts
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INVITATION TUPELO | April 2017
Kim and Joe Estess
Margaret Parker and Moe Livingston
Aubrey Patterson and Chauncy Godwin
Sam and Mary Pace with Mac McAnally
Janna and Buddy Fairley with Dorie Kisner
April 2017 | INVITATION TUPELO
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View more photos at invitationtupelo.com.
BLUE TIE AFFAIR North Mississippi Medical Center held an event for colon cancer awareness March 3 at BancorpSouth Conference Center. The fundraiser included live music, dinner, dancing and a silent auction, and it benefited NMMC’s Cancer Care Patient Fund. photographed by Lisa Roberts
Jennifer and John Averette
Matthew Buchanan and Jariel Hairston
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Charlie and Madeline White with Trey Hawkins and Amanda and Scott Angle
Kimi Howayeck, Marsha Williams and Teresa Ellis
Newt and Lauren Harrison with Jodi and Dan McCrimon
Charlie and Pat Miller with Hilary, Mary Pat and Gary Hancock; Hayden Palmer; and Jenny and Weston Filgo
INVITATION TUPELO | April 2017
Cathy Edwards and Jamie Ewing
Deepika and Jay Dey
Van and Mindy Johnson
60+ Agents Strong and Growing 40+ Years Serving North Mississippi 1 Leading Edge Real Estate Company
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View more photos at invitationtupelo.com.
DPW FILM RECEPTION A reception was held March 13 at The Bus Stop to celebrate the filming of the pilot episode of TV sitcom DPW. The show is set in the fictional town of Rasberry, named for Pat Rasberry, who founded the Tupelo Film Commission. ICC film students participated in the production of the show. photographed by Lisa Roberts
Angel and Dyan Sullivan
Patrick, Betsy and James Raiford
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Carolyn Parson and Tyler Stephenson
Trinity Maye, Josh Sussman and Laura Mason
Annaline Rutledge, Linda Morgan, Obba Babatunde and Zilla Spencer
Katelen Cornelius, Caleb Hall and Anna Nolley
Will Crockett, Barbara Fleishhacker, Bryan Rosenberg and Celia Fleishhacker
Katrina and Marty Dunaway
David Cole, Jim Bean and Tammy Rodgers
designed by Nikki Gardner
ADAIR CARPET & FLOORING
designed by Nikki Gardner
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April 2017 | INVITATION TUPELO
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View more photos at invitationtupelo.com.
TUPELO BBQ DUEL The seventh annual Tupelo BBQ Duel, named the fourth-top barbecue festival in the country by USA Today, was held March 17-19 at Fairpark. More than $25,000 in prizes were awarded, and proceeds benefited the Link Centre. photographed by Lisa Roberts
Harris Rhea, Kyle Rogers, Denny Koernon and Shelton Hollis
All-American City Hoggers BBQ team
Southern Grillers BBQ team
Smoke Jumpers BBQ team
Star Boars BBQ team
Betty Rosenberg and Jane Sherrard
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Dixie Porkers BBQ team
INVITATION TUPELO | April 2017
Clint and Ronald Burns
Scott Dobbs and Jimbo Dawson
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Michael Steakley and Amanda Oakley
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April 2017 | INVITATION TUPELO
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View more photos at invitationtupelo.com.
RUN FOR YOUR BUNS North Mississippi Medical Center hosted the third annual Run for Your Buns 5K race March 4 at Fairpark. The event benefits the NMMC Cancer Care Patient Fund and is held in conjunction with Colon Cancer Awareness Month. photographed by Lisa Roberts
Jason Shelton and Rich Heyer
Amanda Dickinson, Morgan Carrell and Erin Anderson
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INVITATION TUPELO | April 2017
Jack and Stacy Cobb
Morgan Barker and Ashley Gilliland
Lorie Armstrong, Jules Cason, Teri Spain and Kim Palmer
Patricia Hamblin, Anna Clayton, Caleb and Natalie Duffie, Dena Griggs and Nicci Barilleaux
Annette Poole with Lauren, Miller, Shelton and Michael Lowe
David Anthony with Sonja and James Hamilton
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• Click on our from Reed’s to Me link on our website: www.reedsms.com • Fill out the form with your style, fit and price preference. • Choose your delivery (monthly, every other month, or every 3 months). • Keep what you like and send back the rest! It’s easy, and shipping is FREE! • Share your From Reed’s to Me outfits by tagging us on Facebook and Instagram. #Reeds1905 #FromReedsToMe • If you like something on our Facebook or Instagram and want it in your next box, simply comment on the post and we will add it, if available. Historic Downtown Tupelo 662.842.6453 I Mall at Barnes Crossing 662.842.5287 reedsms.com April 2017 | INVITATION TUPELO
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This special shade garden has been the backdrop of family events for generations. written by Melanie Crownover photographed by Lisa Roberts and Joe Worthem
Joan and Conrado Aguirre began designing and planting their lush backyard shade garden when they moved to the property in the 1970s, learning to landscape the wooded lot as they went. More than 40 years later, many family memories have been made in the garden, which served as the setting of a grandchild’s wedding ceremony last summer.
Joan Aguirre’s backyard garden has been the setting for family gatherings for the past four decades, from weekly Sunday breakfasts with extended family to showers and wedding ceremonies. “Ever since I can remember, it’s always been me and my cousins running through those step-down flower beds that lead to the lake,” Joan’s granddaughter A.K. Aguirre said. “The grandeur of this place was huge as a little kid, but even now it’s a spectacular thing to see in full bloom. No other place could have made my cousin’s wedding more beautiful last summer.”
Joan and her husband, Conrado, moved into the Natchez Trace Villas neighborhood in 1973. They soon began making their heavily wooded 3.75-acre lot into something special. “When my husband was alive, we enjoyed being out and doing the gardening together,” she said. “We started making this together right after we moved here with the little we knew about landscaping. Wherever there was a bare spot, we tried to add a little flower bed.” With the help of gardening magazines and books, the pair quickly adapted to working with the natural shadows of their yard by planting shade-loving varieties of azaleas,
hydrangeas, gardenias and camellias. They mingled hearty greenery, including hostas and ferns, with season-long bloomers such as coralbells, Knock Out roses and begonias to make the arrangement more colorful. The view of the garden from the couple’s downstairs loggia (covered patio) became a favorite place for the family to sip morning coffee or relax together at the end of the day. The sounds of the wind chimes and the local frogs only added to the peaceful atmosphere. In 2010, A.K. moved in to help Joan maintain the shade garden after Conrado died in 2007. The recent drought has made it harder April 2017 | INVITATION TUPELO
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“We started making this together right after we moved here with the little we knew about landscaping. Wherever there was a bare spot, we tried to add a little flower bed.� -Joan Aguirre
Throughout the Aguirre garden, hostas and ferns are complemented by shade-loving flowers that add pops of color to the green landscape.
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to keep the plants thriving, so during the bouts of unseasonably warm weather this past fall and winter, A.K. began working overtime in the garden, clearing beds, pruning and replacing plants killed by the weather. “I wanted to have everything looking back up to par before her 87th birthday in March,” A.K. said. “It’s like a homemade present, but I’m the one who got to learn something new from her every day that I’ve been out here working.”
Above, the downstairs loggia is the perfect perch from which to view the garden. At right, a special sculpture surrounded by hydrangeas adds personality to the lush landscape.
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ON STANDS
JULY 2017
Celebrating Mississippi Families Invitation Magazines presents a new publication focused on trends and healthy lifestyle tips for parents and children of all ages. Areas of content include education, home, health, food and much more. Invitation Family will be published quarterly and distributed in 17 cities across north & central Mississippi.
INVITATIONFAMILY.COM @invitation_family @invitation_fam Invitation Family InvFamilyMagazine@gmail.com (662) 234-4008 April 2017 | INVITATION TUPELO
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This family home blends elegance and functionality in every room. written by Melanie Crownover photographed by Joe Worthem
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INVITATION TUPELO | April 2017
Angela and Marc Clegg’s
stately home in Tupelo’s Charleston Gardens neighborhood reflects their individual personalities: a combination of gilded glamour and rustic charm; modern convenience and old-world tradition; and luxe and lush mixed with understated practicality. “The neighborhood here was a big feature for me because of all the space and kids for our [two] girls to play with,” Angela said. “The design of the house got him. I’m more rustic farmhouse, and he’s formal elegance. I’m more about the functionality; he’s the style. Thank goodness he’s the one who made the look in this house happen.” Marc thought he had designed the perfect French country home for his family when he and Angela put their Big Oaks house on the market last year. Floor plans for a new 8,000-square-foot house were complete, and the build was about to begin when his cousin saw a home in the same neighborhood online. The couple scheduled an appointment for the next day and fell in love. The five bedroom, four-and-a-half-bath house was a smaller space at 6,650 square feet, but Marc could see the potential in the bones of the grand arched doorways, interior brick walls and surplus of windows for natural light. The couple scrapped their plans for building and decided to invest in converting this existing house into their ideal home instead. They moved in July of 2016. The renovation began with an overall coat of paint outside, new shutters, iron railings and interior upgrades, including closet overhauls and built-in shelves added to every room. Then came the decorative makeover, which was handled primarily by Marc, with help from interior decorator Andrea McDaniel and BlairHaus. Each room got its own touch of glitz. Crystal-adorned chandeliers hang in every room. Pearlized pewter paint in the dining room and three-dimensional wallpaper with a shimmering upraised modern print in the guest bathroom dress up the walls. Details, from the
Angela and Mark Clegg extensively renovated a Charleston Gardens home to meet their needs and reflect their personal styles. The result is a luxurious yet livable family home they are happy to call their own. April 2017 | INVITATION TUPELO
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glittery candles gracing the golden-doored sideboard to the platinum sheen of the wooden canopy bed in the master bedroom, bring a bit of grandeur to the space. Silver nailhead detailing on much of the furniture and upholstery in plush velvets and mother-of-pearl leather add drama. “I added metallics in with the blacks and grays so they almost seem neutral. I used the Fixer Upper [modern farmhouse] look with Southern traditional to offset it, and it’s all full use,” Marc said. “Those big velvet silver couches in the living room look nice, but my kids play on them. The white chairs in the den don’t look that comfortable, but that’s where I relax to watch the news every day. That grand piano is where my daughter practices.” Rustic touches, such as antler accessories on the coffee table and mantel in the den, the hammered-copper sink in the butler’s pantry area and the farmhouse table in the dining room, bring country ease to the space. Heart pine floors and the glow of the chandeliers’ tiny lights lend warmth, while abstract modern wall art in shiny frames supplies pops of color to each room. Old meets new as antique dishes fill the china cabinet in the same room with Art Decostyle golden lamps. Well-thought-out elements, from electrical switches on the kitchen island and in the middle of the living room floor to motion-sensitive lighting in the pantry and guest bathroom, emphasize smart technology. Upstairs, Marc turned the fifth bedroom into a playroom for the children and added a state-of-the-art fitness room with a corrugatedmetal ceiling for himself and Angela. Family photos and hidden owls in each room – a nod to the family business, Wise Staffing – personalize the home. “When it was first done, I thought it was a little too fancy, but it’s grown on me,” Angela said. “It’s really very practical. I don’t think he left out anything when he was figuring out how to set everything up for us. It’s everything we could ever want.”
Throughout the Clegg home, rustic focal points like heart pine floors, pictured above and on previous pages, contrast with more-formal metallic accessories, such as the decorative end table and chandelier pictured at left. April 2017 | INVITATION TUPELO
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Warm-Season Vegetable
Planting Guide dates provided by Mississippi State University Extension Service
vegetable planting range Beans, snap bush Beans, snap pole Beans, lima bush Beans, lima pole Corn Cucumbers Eggplant Muskmelons Okra Peanuts Peas, Southern Peppers Pumpkins/Winter Squash Spinach, New Zealand Summer Squash Sweet Potatoes Tomatoes Watermelons
April 14 - May 10 April 14 - Aug. 1 April 28 - July 15 April 28 - July 5 March 31 - July 15 April 28 - Aug. 10 April 28 - July 15 April 28 - June 1 April 28 - July 15 April 14 - May 15 April 28 - July 20 April 28 - July 15 April 28 - July 1 April 14 - May 15 April 28 - Aug. 10 April 28 - July 1 April 28 - July 20 April 28 - June 1
For more advice on spring and summer gardening, call the Lee County Master Gardener Help Center at 662-620-8280, available 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday-Thursday from March to July.
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INVITATION TUPELO | April 2017
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Corinth native Lanny Griffith has reinvented his hometown through historic preservation and restoration. written by Melanie Crownover photographed by Joe Worthem
Griffith may have moved away from his hometown of Corinth years ago to pursue a political career in Washington, D.C., but it seems a part of him never left. Griffith is responsible for the restoration of buildings in Corinth’s historic district, transforming them into local landmarks such as the upscale Vicari Italian Grill and V Taco, a festive taco and margarita bar. His dedication to reinventing downtown Corinth began with the 2004 renovation of a former feed store building he had owned for two decades. The downstairs houses offices, but Griffith’s pride is a more personal space: a
two-bedroom upstairs loft that’s an industrialinspired homage to the building’s past. The renovation taught him a lot about modernizing a space deeply rooted in the past. “It took three years to finish that one,” he said. “I’m a history lover, so I knew complying with strict historic guidelines would create a challenge in developing and preserving it at the same time. “Many of the buildings in that area had to be rebuilt after the war because of the strategic location and the siege following the Battle of Shiloh and the ultimate Union occupation.” Griffith hired New Orleans architect Dennis Brady and Virginia designer Barry Dixon
to help navigate the rules of redefining the historic space that became his sanctuary when he was visiting. While historical preservation guidelines mandated that the exterior maintain an eraappropriate storefront facade, the renovation team found more creative freedom in the 2,500 square feet inside reserved for the loft. “It was basically a hulled-out place that lay unused for many years,” Dixon said. “The concept was to repurpose it as a residential space with respect for the innate characteristics of the building’s original purpose. There aren’t as many restrictions for the interior when you renovate a building from the 1800s, but we
Plenty of Mississippi history is present in Lanny Griffith’s downtown Corinth loft, but the sleek kitchen, pictured at left, brings a modern look to the space. Above, curtains, rugs, furniture and other decorative elements are strategically placed to divide the otherwise open floor plan. April 2017 | INVITATION TUPELO
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went above and beyond to salvage that history.” As construction crews worked to replace the leaky tin roof and bring the aged plumbing, wiring and structural base up to modern codes, they uncovered scraps of inspiration for the design within the original structure. Heart pine floor joists from the second story were milled into flooring. Wooden doors from the back entrance, with too much wear to be rehung, became framing for two decorative mirrors. Brick embedded between thick walls separating the building’s “store” units from one another was exposed to embrace the industrial look of the former feed store. Measurements and graffiti scrawled on the plastered walls near a former freight elevator were lightly restored and then sealed to preserve their character. The design team was intent on juxtaposing
Eclectic decorative details, pictured above and at right, were carefully chosen for the loft, which is where Griffith and his family stay when visiting Corinth, Griffith’s hometown, from his permanent home in Washington, D.C.
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the details of newer additions. Antique pieces such as an antebellum mahogany and marble center table used as a reading spot in the master bedroom, drapes made from artisanal handprinted fabrics, and period soaking tubs in the two bathrooms stand in contrast to the modern galley kitchen, metallic tile and lighting with exposed conduit and wiring. “[It’s] a delicate balance between the vernacular of the commercial present and homey past,” Dixon said. For Griffith, it is a respite from his life near Washington. “Most of our family lives near Corinth, so we can come visit without taking up guest rooms for holidays or a ballgame in Oxford,” he said. “No matter how long it’s been since our last visit, it makes you wish for more time to stay. For us, this is a place which allows us to relax.”
From the framed black-and-white photographs to the exposed-brick walls, Griffith’s loft embraces history and exudes character. At the same time, industrial-style elements such as the bathroom vanity, pictured above, lend a contrasting modern feel.
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INVITATION TUPELO | April 2017
written by Melanie Crownover photographed by Joe Worthem
The McKissicks’ comfortable, oversized back-porch swing is a favorite spot for everyone in the family.
When 13-year-old Lydia
McKissick and her friends gather at her house on warm sunny days, there’s no question where the afternoon will end. “We can be eating in the outdoor kitchen, swimming in the lake or playing games in the backyard. Even my birthday party ended with us eating pizza and talking on the swing,” the Guntown Middle School student said. “I like to sit on the right side because you can see the whole yard and patio from there so you always know what’s going on.” Swing beds weren’t a trend when Alicia and Greg McKissick built their Saltillo home on 80 acres in 2006. But a couple of years ago they
decided to upgrade their five bedroom, threeand-a-half-bath house by finding a local swing builder to make them a custom model. “You would think it came with the house,” Greg said. “There was already this deep-set porch built in, so it looks like it was designed to be a part of this place.” The rest of the back porch holds the family’s patio furniture and a see-through fireplace that doubles as a focal point for both the living room inside and the outdoor porch seating area. An empty nook to the side of the brick and stained-concrete porch’s patio area happened to have the perfect measurements for an oversized swing. April 2017 | INVITATION TUPELO
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An oversized porch swing is a special spot for the McKissick family, pictured above. It's become a gathering spot for friends, a comfortable place from which to watch over the children in the yard and a respite for relaxation. Even the family dog, pictured at right, has fun with the swing: He stays off of it but has a habit of stealing its pillows.
The piece, which weighs around 75 pounds, is hand-constructed of treated lumber with decorative corbels on each arm. Alicia augmented the wood’s 30-year rating for dura bility by adding a coat of light-gray paint, and the rustic-looking rope that hangs the seat from the slatted porch ceiling is reinforced with spring-loaded hardware, just in case anyone decides to flop down for a sit. “With our three girls in house, it was important for this swing to be able to take a lot of people sitting on it at one time and some heavy use,” Alicia said. “We can say that they always have kids over, but this is really a hub for our friends too. We all gravitate to this spot.” The couple keeps the foam seat cushion fashionably practical by covering it in fabric
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held in place by the braces of the swing. When the cover needs to be cleaned or the colors of the season change, the cushion cover and the multiple throw pillows that adorn it can easily be changed. The biggest draw to the swing, besides the comfortable seating, is its view. The spot is perfect for catching pristine sunsets and sunrises over the lake, and Lydia isn’t the only one in the family who touts it as ideal for peoplewatching. Mom and Dad both rate the area as a prime location for keeping eyes on Lydia and their two other daughters, Elyse (age 11) and Millie (age 7). When the girls jump off the diving board on the dock to swim in the lake, the parents can unwind and observe, and Alicia, Lydia and
Millie can watch Greg work with Elyse on her fastballs in the backyard. When the couple’s friends and their kids come over, the adults can recline in the swing and still see the kids enjoying the outdoors safely. And, believe it or not, the McKissick family says there are rare moments when the grown-ups get time to themselves in the most vied-for seat of the house. “They’re always on that swing,” Alicia said, “but we both try to take a break to sit out there a minute when we’re home. It’s just deep enough that you can lie down and relax if you can find it unoccupied. You hardly turn down a chance to have it to yourself if it’s open. It has turned into the best place here to sit down and just take it all in.”
“You hardly turn down a chance to have it to yourself if it’s open. It’s turned into the best place here to sit down and just take it all in.” -Alicia McKissick
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View more photos at invitationtupelo.com.
CORINTH SYMPHONY BROADWAY REVUE The Corinth Symphony Orchestra presented a Broadway Revue tribute to Andrew Lloyd Webber featuring performer Laurie Gayle Stephenson March 4 at the Corinth Coliseum Civic Center. photographed by Whitney Worsham
Steve and Shelby McElwain
Robert Gray and Dian Brown
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INVITATION TUPELO | April 2017
Linda Carpenter and Sue Rice
Jon Worth and Jennifer Garrett with Kay Hussey
Martha Collins and Pamela Palmer Houchins
Kate Butler, Debbie Tallent and Sandra Young
Teresa Pittman, Robbin Cox, Cindy Erickson and Melinda Moore
Randy and Penny Long
Beth and Scott Bauer
Kay Larson and Sherra Green
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View more photos at invitationtupelo.com.
EMPTY BOWLS LUNCHEON
The Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary held the 19th annual Empty Bowls luncheon March 1 at Tupelo Furniture Market. Proceeds benefit the local Salvation Army’s food ministry. photographed by Lisa Roberts
Donna Wiggins, Rebekah Capps, Marisa Boatner and Shelli Wood
Ryan McCoy, Leslie Geoghegan, Cletus Brekke, Judy Armentrout and David Leathers
Jamila Khalil and Aziz Houjhouj
Alyssa and Walter Simpson Jr. with Cory Fremont
Jerrica Robinson, Patricia Cubillo and Blanca Flores
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INVITATION TUPELO | April 2017
Holly Rogers, Lynda Thornton, Peggy Gray and Betty Neilson
Larry Hughes and Carolyn Moss with Dena and Mike Govatsos
Nicole Calvert, Jimmy Morgan and Carey Snyder
Amber Ralcy and Michael Armstrong
Leeann and Rob Lesley
Tabitha McRunnels, Jeff Daniel and Jan Garrison
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View more photos at invitationtupelo.com.
BLOOD COUNTRY FILM PRODUCTION Filming for Running Wild Films’ Blood Country took place March 20 at the Jacinto Courthouse in Rienzi. More than 60 locals participated in the courthouse scene of the Western thriller. photographed by Whitney Worsham
Margie, Mollie and Jeanne Potts
Johnson Anderson and Bronson Woodruff
Pat Arinder and Lillian Morris
Denzel and Bernard Toomer
Aspen Wilson and Markeith Coleman
Ralph and Alex Coln with Jasper Walls
Nelda Warren, Pam Foster and Diane Hilburn
Talesha Mitchell and Alex Nix
Matthew Horton, Greta Brashier and Rita Flanagan
Ansley Wiggington and Kate Madden Worsham
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INVITATION TUPELO | April 2017
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View more photos at invitationtupelo.com.
A NOVEL AFFAIR Friends of the Lee County Library hosted the third annual A Novel Affair event March 10 at the Summit Center. James Beard award-winning chef John Currence led a cooking demonstration and program, followed by a three-course meal. photographed by Lisa Roberts
Olivia Lyberg, Becky Rollins and John Currence
Grant and Cindy Smith with Sue Ann and Wayne Averett
Jane Riley and Susan May
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INVITATION TUPELO | April 2017
Mary and Glenn Thomas with Kim Westhouse
Karen and Scott Costello with Shannon and Tim Overton
Lewis Whitfield with Laurie and Steve Simons and Nancy and Jim Diffee
Bill and Jeanine Gregory, Charlotte and Jamie Darnell
Shipman and Kathrine Sloan
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View more photos at invitationtupelo.com.
SNOWFLAKE BALL The Pilot Club of New Albany hosted its eighth annual father-daughter Snowflake Ball Feb. 25 at First Baptist Church of New Albany. The event included food, dancing and party favors. photographed by Jessica Richardson
Brooklyn and Abel Garcia
Kadence, Andrew and Addisyn Wagers
Belle and Justin Williams
names names Terrence namesand names Kiristen names Judon names names
Halie and Mike Van Orman
Cole and Paige Carruth
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INVITATION TUPELO | April 2017
Glenn and Kaitlyn Rose Dendy
Darden, Ben and Madi Moorman
Kara and Ben Morrison
Kwadis, Kamille and Kai Beard
Jeff and Addison Bean
Carly and James Pegues
Ben and Gracie Garrett
Jody, Georgi and Cailin Walls
Stephen and Stephanie Nolen with Bobby and Shelby Thompson
Desrae Finley and Barron McKenzie
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View more photos at invitationtupelo.com.
OUT AND ABOUT MONSTER JAM MONSTER TRUCK SHOW AT BANCORPSOUTH ARENA
Ayden, Ryan and Jamie Zemek
Jamison Jr. and Jamison Shells
SCHNAUZERS IN THE PARK
Susan and Bill Hayden with Lazarus
Julia Lewis, Braxton Hale and Jeff Munn
NORTH MISSISSIPPI SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA TRIBUTE TO STEVEN BYESS
Michael Rodgers with Baxter
Beverly Crossen and Margaret Anne Murphey
Noel Garcia, Lisa Martin and Bill Deas
TUPELO FURNITURE MARKET AWARDS DONATIONS TO LOCAL SCHOOLS
1st place First place: winner Early Earley Childhood Childhood Learning Learning Center Center
Second place: Shannon Primary School
ST. JUDE DREAM HOME GROUNDBREAKING
Jerry Jones, Scott Spencer, Mark Simpson, Kenneth Jones, Shonda Sharpe and Trey Wilemon
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Third place: Oasis of Love School
CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL
Takahiro Yoshikawa and Megumi Inoue
Chika Hayashi and Nagisa Nakamura
WTVA HOME AND GARDEN EXPO
Latoya Loyd, Chad Ferguson and Shiree Harris
GREG ILES BOOK SIGNING AT REED’S
Lisa and Jack Reed with Greg and Caroline Iles
VIETNAM REPLICA WALL GROUNDBREAKING
Ken Patterson, Charles Flurry, Bill Tallant and Mike Pettigrew
DANCING WITH THE KING
Erin Powell and Jesse Wood
April 2017 | INVITATION TUPELO
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ANN HALL
interviewed by Melanie Crownover photographed by Joe Worthem
Kindergarten teacher Ann Hall has been a Master Gardener for only a year, but she’s learned a lot working in her front-yard garden.
Q: Are you the neighborhood urban farmer? A: Sort of. I am that neighbor. The definition of an urban farmer is that you sell your goods, so I don’t quite fit. I go by the same methods for growing that they do. I just give a lot away.
Q: What challenges come with city gardening? A: Our house has a little over an acre of land, but the whole back and sides are wooded. We had to plant in the front yard with raised beds because it’s on a hill. It’s difficult getting used to your yard not looking like everyone else’s, but the biggest thing has been keeping our three rescue dogs out of it. They love produce too.
Q: How do neighbors react to your garden? A: They’ve been really sweet. We share a lot of what we grow and fresh eggs with them. Some of their kids and grandkids even come over to watch the chickens ride the tractor when we move their mobile coop.
Q: Is your garden organic? A: I’m a big believer in the ancient theory of permaculture, where everything has a purpose. I don’t till so that I don’t kill the things that are good for the soil. I use a crushed-bone mix for pesticide on my greens that pierces the bug exoskeletons but rinses right off. I use fish emulsion and blood meal for fertilizer, make homemade compost and balance the soil with Epsom salts. I put guppies in our rainwater catcher to keep down the mosquitos, and they become part of our compost later. I even use waste from the coop for fertilizer.
Q: Do you teach gardening skills at school? A: [This spring I set up] two beds. One will be a butterfly garden full of flowers, and the other will be greens students can help grow and harvest. I think it’s important for them to know how to grow their own food.
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