Invitation Tupelo - October 2015

OCTOBER 2015

WALK IN OUR PATH a family of black cats and dogs puts an end to superstitious stereotypes

THE FUTURE of Tupelo-Lee Humane Society

MEET PERCY page 14

CARVING

ANIMAL LOVERS who are making a big difference

a new Halloween tradition on Jefferson Street

Mississippi

care for Mississippi

kids.

Children’s of Mississippi is here to help you keep your kids healthy and close to home. Part of University of Mississippi Medical Center, we offer specialty pediatric care right here in Tupelo. Our services include: • Cardiology • Dietetics • Endocrinology

• Gastroenterology • General Surgery • Hematology

• Orthopaedics • Inpatient hospital care at NMMC

And we’ll be adding more services soon!

Call 888.815.2005 for an appointment.

Children’s of Mississippi Tupelo 1150 South Green Street Building 2, Suite D ummchealth.com/tupelo

October 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

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589 GARFIELD STREET • TUPELO, MS • (662) 680-5565 300 HOSPITAL ROAD • STARKVILLE, MS • (662) 324-7484 www.dhsgi.net

“I’m only 53 I’m too young” FACT: Screening is

recommended for men and women beginning at age 50.

Document: 103

Digestive Health Specialists, P.A.

IN THIS ISSUE

“It doesn’t run in my family!”

OCTOBER 2015

OCTOBER 2015

WALK IN OUR PATH a family of black cats and dogs puts an end to superstitious stereotypes

THE FUTURE of Tupelo-Lee Humane Society

MEET PERCY page 14

CARVING

ANIMAL LOVERS who are making a big difference

a new Halloween tradition on Jefferson Street

ON THE COVER: PERCY CATSON, PHOTOGRAPHED BY JOE WORTHEM. READ MORE ABOUT PERCY ON PAGE 14.

FACT: Most colonrectal cancers occur in people with no family history.

“Why Should I Get Screened?”

“I cant afford this test!”

FACT: Most insurances now cover colon cancer screenings.

FACT: Colonrectal cancer doesn’t always cause symptoms, “I don’t have especially early on. symptoms.”

FACT: Colorectal cancer doesn’t always cause symptoms, especially early on.

Colonrectal Cancer Screenings Saves Lives Colonrectal cancer is the 2nd leading “Why cancer killer in the U.S. “I’mit can only be 53,prevented. Should I helps ButI’m Screening too young”

Getthey can be FACT: Screening is find precancerous polyps so recommended for men and women beginning Screened?” removed before they turn into cancer. at age 50.

Screening can also find colorectal cancer early, “I can’t afford this when treatment is most “It doesn’t run in test!”effective.

my family.”

FACT: Most insurances now cover colon cancer FACT: Most colorectal • When discovered in its early stages, screenings. cancers occur in people with nocurable. family history. colonrectal cancer is up to 90%

•Colorectal Men and women ageSaves 50 and Cancer Screening Lives older should be screened regularly.

Colorectal cancer is the 2nd leading cancer killer in the U.S. But it can be prevented. Screening helps find precancerous polyps so they can be removed before they turn into cancer. Screening can also find colorectal cancer early, when treatment is most effective.

• Colonoscopy is the most effective •screening When discovered procedure in its early stages, colorectal is up to 90% curable. whencancer performed •by Menan and experienced women age 50 and older gastroenterologist should be screened regularly. in effective endoscopy.

•speciallzing Colonoscopy is the most screening procedure when performed by an experienced gastroenterologist specializing in endoscopy.

Stephen T. Amann, M.D. Cara L. Harris, FNP-C Samuel C. Pace, M.D. Stephen Amann, M.D. Roger L. L. Huey, M.D. Samuel C. Pace, M.D. John B. T.Averette, M.D. Roger Huey, M.D. John O. Phillips, M.D. John B. Averette, M.D. M.D. Noel K. K. Hunt, M.D. John O. Phillips, M.D. Christopher H. Decker, Noel Hunt, M.D. R. Brasfield Smith, M.D. Christopher H. Decker, M.D. Allen Justice, M.D. Ashley Vaughn, CFNP Barney J. Guyton, M.D. C.C.Allen Justice, M.D Ashley L. L.Vaughn, CFNP Barney J. Guyton, M.D. Garrett Ogg, M.D. Cara L. Harris, FNP-C W.W.Garrett Ogg, M.D. W. Carl Kellum Jr., M.D. 1952-2006

Digestive Health Specialists, P.A. 589 GARFIELD STREET • TUPELO, MS • (662) 680-5565 300 HOSPITAL ROAD • STARKVILLE, MS • (662) 324-7484 www.dhsgi.net

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INVITATION TUPELO | October 2015

Document: 1037992_Digestive.eps;Page: 1;Format:(125.40 x 254.00 mm);Plate: Composite;Date: Feb 04, 2015 10:07:12;JPC 72 DPI

“I don’t have any symptoms!”

52 A Change of Luck

Black cats and dogs aren’t considered bad luck in the Tollison household, where several of the four-legged animals have been adopted into the family.

FEATURES 42 Pet Friendly Local animal lovers are making Mississippi a better place for creatures big and small.

48 Trunk or Treat A growing downtown tradition offers a safe environment and sweet treats for Halloween revelers of all ages.

EVENTS 22 24 26 30 32 34 36 38 58 60 62 64 66 68 70 72 74

Abbey Road Live!

Moon and Magnolias Community Pep Rally Fall Movie in the Park Down on Main Concert Summer Movie Series Emergency Responders Lunch Boots, Bluegrass & BBQ The Price Is Right Live Joyner Elementary Fall Festival Tallahatchie Riverfest BNI Charity Golf Tournament Out of the Darkness Walk Smokey Joe’s Cafe Hog Roasters Golf Tournament Blessed are the Peacemakers Oktoberfest

DEPARTMENTS 8 10 14 16 18 76 80

Letter From the Publisher What’s Happening Meet Percy Community Corner: TLHS In Season: Broccoli Out and About Tupelo Spirit: David Sistrunk October 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

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the publisher

LETTER FROM

W

hen I was a child, Halloween was a festive time around my house.

The anticipation of what costume I would wear trick-or-treating was always a fun and often-discussed topic.

One year, during middle school, my mom agreed to make me a costume that was a rabbit jumping out of a top hat. While all my costumes were not that elaborate, they all created childhood memories.

I grew up in a small town where neighbors handed candied apples out to a few children they knew personally. Things have changed over the years, and trick-or-treating is different today. But it’s certainly still exciting for families in Tupelo who are keeping the spirit of the night alive with a new, safe and festive twist on the holiday custom. Trunk or Treat, held along West Jefferson Street on Oct. 31 from 5 to 7 p.m., is the place to be as traffic shuts down and cars with candy-stocked trunks line up for family-friendly Halloween fellowship.

Speaking of Halloween traditions, are you worried about that black cat that crossed your path? Meredith Deas Tollison isn’t. She’s got a big heart for these misunderstood creatures and has made it her mission to adopt blackcoated dogs and cats over many years. Come to find out, because of age-old superstitions, finding homes for dogs or cats with black fur is a real problem for local animal shelters. Donna Jarrell, director of the Tupelo-Lee Humane

PUBLISHER Rachel Malone West EDITOR Phil West MANAGING EDITOR Emily Welly ASSOCIATE EDITOR Lena Anderson ART DIRECTOR Hallie M. Thomas PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Emily R. Suber STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS Lisa Roberts, Joe Worthem STAFF WRITER Melanie Crownover ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Cindy Semmes ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS Alise M. Emerson, Leigh Lowery, Lynn McElreath, Stacey Raper, Moni Simpson, Whitney Worsham DESIGNERS Becca Bailey, Zach Fields CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Sonia Thompson CONTRIBUTING ARTISTS & PHOTOGRAPHERS Chasity Dees, Laurie Fisher, Andrew Stanford OFFICE MANAGER Hollie Hilliard

Society, said that black animals are often the last to be adopted and are most likely to be euthanized. Read more about Tollison and her menagerie of black cats and dogs on page 52, and meet Percy, the lovable black cat on this month’s cover, on page 14.

No matter if you are dressing in a black cat costume for Halloween or have decided to make a black cat part of your family, we hope each of you has a safe and fun fall.

COPY EDITOR Kate Johnson DISTRIBUTION Donald Courtney ADVERTISING INFORMATION (662) 701-8070 ads@invitationtupelo.com MAIN OFFICE (662) 234-4008 To subscribe to one year (10 issues) of Invitation Tupelo, send payment of $50 to: P.O. Box 3192, Tupelo, MS 38802 or visit invitationtupelo.com to pay online.

To request a photographer at your event, to obtain an event photo or to purchase an announcement, email Hallie at hallielandonmarshall@gmail.com.

RACHEL M. WEST, PUBLISHER

PLEASE RECYCLE THIS MAGAZINE

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INVITATION TUPELO | October 2015

October 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

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

DAVE CLARK’S CELEBRITY GOLF TOURNAMENT

FESTIVALS & CELEBRATIONS October 15

ART, THEATER & COMMUNITY EVENTS Now through October 28

Ongoing

New Beginnings Celebration of Adoption

GumTree Museum Exhibits

Tupelo Farmers’ Depot

New Beginnings will honor adoptive families and birthmothers at a special dinner event featuring a silent auction and keynote speaker George Barna, an influential Christian author and speaker. Tickets $35; $60 for couples. BancorpSouth Conference Center.

662-842-6752, newbeginningsadoptions.org

Artwork by Trevor Bennett is on display through Oct. 28, and the GumTree Museum Permanent Collection can be viewed through December. Free admission. Open 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday-Friday. gumtreemuseum.com

Open 6 a.m.-noon Thursdays and Saturdays, and 4-7 p.m. Tuesdays. 415 S. Spring St. 662-841-6598, tupelomainstreet.com

October 16 Tupelo Chili Fest Teams from around the Southeast will compete for the “Make Ya Wanna Slap Your Mama Good!” first-place prize in the 16th annual Tupelo Chili Fest, which benefits the Downtown Tupelo Main Street Association. Takes place on Broadway between Main and Troy streets.

Tickets for the general public are $5 for lunch (11 a.m.-1:30 p.m.) and $10 for dinner (5-10 p.m.) tupelomainstreet.com

October 17 Dogtrot Rockabilly Festival The third annual Dogtrot Rockabilly Festival takes place at Oren Dunn Museum. Enjoy music, food, craft vendors, a car show, games and more. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

662-841-6438

October 17 Barktoberfest Bring your pets to Tupelo Bark Park for playtime, music, food and vendors. 10 a.m.

November 12 Taste of Tupelo Community Development Foundation hosts Taste of Tupelo networking event featuring local businesses and restaurants. Tickets $10 for CDF members; $20 for others.

5-8 p.m., BancorpSouth Arena. cdfms.org

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INVITATION TUPELO | October 2015

Now through October 30 Hill Country Expressions Art Exhibit

October 24 Race for the Cure

Oren Dunn City Museum presents Hill Country Expressions, an exhibit featuring work by the Mississippi Painters Society. Museum is open 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday.

662-841-6438

Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure benefits local organizations that provide breast health education and breast cancer screening and treatment programs. 5K run/walk or 1-mile fun run/walk. 8 a.m., Fairpark komennorthms.org

October 17

November 5-8

Corinth Fall Community Yard Sale

Disney on Ice Let’s Celebrate!

Proceeds from a community yard sale benefit the Crossroads Museum Save the Fire Truck Campaign.

8 a.m.-2 p.m., in the CARE Garden at Corinth Depot 662-287-3120, director@crossroadsmuseum.com

Mickey, Minnie and the rest of the gang hit the ice at BancorpSouth Arena. Tickets $12-$52. 10:30 a.m. and 7 p.m. Nov. 5 and 6; 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. Nov. 7; 2 p.m.

Nov. 8. bcsarena.com

October 21-24 Celebration Village

November 6-8

Annual holiday market benefits Sanctuary Hospice House.

Preview party 6:30-9:30 p.m. Oct. 21; general shopping 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Oct. 22 and 23 and 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Oct. 24.

Tupelo Furniture Market Building 5.

662-844-2111, sanctuaryhospicehouse.com

Disney’s 101 Dalmatians Kids Children’s theater group Pied Piper Players performs 101 Dalmatians. 7 p.m. Nov. 6; 7 p.m. and 2 p.m.

Nov. 8, Milam Auditorium. facebook.com/piedpipertupelo

October 24

November 8-9

Food Day at Healthworks!

Dave Clark’s Celebrity Golf Tournament

Celebrate National Food Day at Healthworks! Learn about healthy foods, shop in a mini farmer’s market, try the taste-testing booth, attend a seed-planting session and more. Free admission with donation of nonperishable food item; otherwise, admission is $5 per family.

10 a.m.-noon. healthworkskidsms.org

The Clark and Enis Family Foundation hosts the second annual Celebrity Golf Tournament. The two-day event kicks off with a cocktail party and auction of sports memorabilia taking place at 6 p.m. Nov. 8 at Tupelo Country Club. The four-man scramble tournament tees off at 10 a.m. Nov. 9 at Tupelo Country Club. Proceeds benefit the local American Red Cross and Regional Rehab. clarkenisfoundation.org

HALLOWEEN FUN October 16-17, 23-24, 30-31

Tupelo Community Theatre Haunted Theatre The Lyric Theatre becomes a haunted theatre for TCT’s 10th annual Halloween event. Tickets $15. Not recommended for children under age 10. 662-844-1935, tct.ms

October 17 Zombie Fun Run All ages are invited to join in the Zombie Fun Run at the Tupelo Cross Country Trail in Ballard Park (children under 13 must be accompanied by an adult). Register early for $20 or day of race for $25. 6-9 p.m.

662-841-6440

October 23 Tupelo Halloween Horror Film Festival Get in the Halloween spirit at a locally produced horror film festival. Tickets $10. 7:30 p.m., Link Centre. For more information, search for the festival on Facebook.

October 29 Halloween Egg Hunt and Trunk or Treat Parks and Recreation-sponsored event for children ages 12 and under includes a Halloween-themed egg hunt and Trunk or Treat at the Tupelo Cross Country Trail in Ballard Park. Admission, one bag of candy per family of four.

6 p.m.

October 29-30 Monsters Under the Bed Tupelo Community Theatre Off Broadway stages Gay Hammond’s children’s production Monsters Under the Bed. 213 E. Franklin, 7:30 p.m. 662-844-1935, tct.ms

October 31 Trunk or Treat Jefferson Street churches, the library and Downtown Tupelo Main Street Association partner for Trunk or Treat, a family-friendly Halloween event that includes music, food, costumes and candy. 5-7 p.m. on Jefferson between Green and Robins streets. 662-690-8100. Read more about this event on page 48.

October 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

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what’s happening October 15-November 15

More to See, Do and Know Moms Honor Veteran Children

For more information, visit goldstarmoms.com.

Email donnabagwell7@yahoo.com to learn more about the state chapter.

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INVITATION TUPELO | October 2015

Sanctuary Hospice House Angels Each year a local artist is selected to create exclusive handcrafted angels for Sanctuary Hospice House to help raise funds for the organization. This year’s angels were made by artist and potter Kim Wood Westhouse of Saltillo, Miss. She created them in memory of her mother, JoAnn Loden Wood, who was also an artist and was a resident at Sanctuary. The angels, $25, will debut at Celebration Village, taking place Oct. 21-24, and will be sold throughout 2016. After Celebration Village, the angels can be ordered through Sanctuary by calling 662-844-2111.

PHOTOGRAPHED BY SYLVAIN CHAMBERLAIN

Since 1928, American Gold Star Mothers, Inc., has been helping the parents of service members lost in duty to their country. The only branch in the state, the Forever Faithful chapter, operates in Pontotoc, Miss.

“From the beginning, it’s become clear that helping other soldiers through service helps us to grieve,” chapter president Donna Bagwell said. “We try to honor our lost by letting all soldiers know that they’re loved and not forgotten.”

Bagwell’s son, Marine Lance Corporal Lucas Tucker, died while out on military police patrol in 2005 when his Humvee flipped in a hole left by an improvised explosive device. The loss made her more aware of other lost service members whose families were nearby in the following years, and Bagwell became friends with many of their moms.

In 2008, they made it official and chartered a chapter, which now has 22 members.

The women meet to raise funds for military service organizations such as Fischer House, take goody bags to VA homes and participate in local veteran’s celebrations such as Tupelo’s Petals for Patriots. Most of all, they encourage one another.

“All of our stories are different but the loss and guilt are the same for us all,” she said.

“Giving back with others who understand what you’re going through is just a tremendous help.”

10/24 Give Back

11/6 Tupelo Arts Showcase

Celebrate the spirit of philanthropy in our state by participating in the inaugural Mississippi Day of Giving. Give to the cause of your choice, and help catalyze the nonprofits in your community. msdayofgiving.org

Tupelo’s Civic Ballet hosts a free event at the Link Centre that allows the area’s top artists to share their talents. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for viewing visual arts, the performance begins at 7 p.m., and a reception with the artists follows.

Come visit us for all your fall trends!

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Prentiss Street Baldwyn, MS • 662.365.9876 October 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

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Meet Percy

INTERVIEWED BY Melanie Crownover | PHOTOGRAPHED BY Joe Worthem

Percy Catson, pictured on this month’s cover, is a 3-year-old rescue from the Tupelo-Lee Humane Society who lives a life of leisure with Invitation Tupelo staff writer Melanie Crownover and family. Here he shares his tale.

Q: What was it like living at the shelter?

A: I refer to those days as my time in the big house. The people there were nice, but I was not happy in that cell.

Q: How did you meet your new family?

A: They came in with their kids and couldn’t resist my charming personality. I meowed at them from across the room and rubbed the cage whenever they were near. I even stood on the bars and begged to come out. Once they started petting me, I knew they were mine.

Q: What’s your favorite thing about your home now?

A: The people. The food. The Legos I steal from the oldest kid’s room to bat around the kitchen. When the little girl reads to me. Pretty much all of it except the vacuum cleaner and my nemesis, the computer chair.

Q: Where did you get your name?

A: Ever read Rick Riordan’s Percy Jackson series?

The boy and his mom did. I’m named after the main character.

Q: Do you think black cats face stereotypes?

A: Of course. I saw it almost every time someone came in the shelter. I was beginning to think no one would ever take me home. Even at the Crownover house, some visitors say I’m bad luck. Of course, those people don’t get invited back. This family says I’m good luck.

Q: Are you excited about Halloween?

A: I am as excited as any cat can get about it.

I hear the Great Pumpkin brings catnip-coated mice for all the good felines at midnight. I’m just hoping they don’t put that silly collar with a bow back on me, though.

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INVITATION TUPELO | October 2015

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149 N. Eason Blvd. Tupelo, MS October 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

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COMMUNITY Corner

With plans in place and land secured, the local humane society is making a final fundraising push to build a bigger and better animal shelter.

TUPELO-LEE HUMANE SOCIETY coordinators say they are more than halfway to their goal of $2.5 million and the construction of a much-improved animal shelter.

Designated funding flowed in from the annual Putts for Mutts golf tournament in June and Art for Animals in the spring, but the majority of the money for the build came from grants and individual donors.

“We don’t want the Taj Mahal, but we do need something more functional,” Director Donna Jarrell said. “This isn’t just a need, it’s a priority must.”

TLHS takes in more than 6,000 animals annually that are currently housed in a 55-yearold, 6,000-square-foot city building that was not constructed for use as a shelter.

Plans for the upcoming build include a new 18,000-square-foot shelter fit with indoor/ outdoor dog walks, cat condos and areas to

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INVITATION TUPELO | October 2015

segregate sick or incoming animals from the main population.

In addition to the 2 acres of Cliff Gookin Boulevard that TLHS has earmarked for the project for years, the group received the deed for 7 acres of accompanying property this summer. The additional land provides the space needed to start construction on the building, plus ample parking and a fenced outdoor area.

The organization also intends to one day add a barn behind the facility to accommodate the many horses and additional species they take in doing animal control for the city and county.

“The land is cleared, the building plans are ready, and we’re ready to break ground as soon as we have enough money to do it,” she said.

“We’ll be out beating the street until it happens because these animals and the families who might adopt them deserve a better shelter.”

“WE DON’T WANT THE TAJ MAHAL, BUT WE DO NEED SOMETHING MORE FUNCTIONAL. THIS ISN’T JUST A NEED, IT’S A PRIORITY MUST.” -Director Donna Jarrell

October 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

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IN SEASON Broccoli

WRITTEN BY Melanie Crownover | PHOTOGRAPHED BY Joe Worthem

Candi’s Crispy Broccoli 4 cups fresh broccoli, chopped Crushed red pepper flakes, to taste 1 teaspoon fajita seasoning 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce ½ cup Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving Preheat oven to 400°F. Combine broccoli and all other ingredients in large plastic zip-top bag. Shake until broccoli is covered. Arrange on aluminum foilcovered pan, and bake in oven 20-30 minutes or until crisp. Remove from oven, and sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese before serving.

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INVITATION TUPELO | October 2015

C

ameron Tate (pictured below left with children Lane, Bryson and Anna-Blake and wife Candi) planted broccoli for the first time in his 5-acre garden in August, but he is confident he’ll have a healthy crop of the green vegetable this November.

“Even if I’ve never grown a crop at home before, I’ve dealt with it at work,” he said.

“That helps me know what to expect before I put anything in the ground.”

Tate, a 34-year-old Plantersville, Miss., native, is a research technician at the MSU Extension Office and the area’s youngest master gardener.

He successfully transplanted 200 broccoli plants in late August after nurturing the seedlings in containers for six weeks.

The cruciferous plants go into rows when the stems are sturdy enough not to fall over.

If kept in pots too long, Tate warns, roots can grow in circles and leave the plant root-bound.

He fertilizes with a handmade mix of phosphorous, nitrogen and phosphate, uses raised beds in full sun to allow for water drainage and irrigates with pond water at least every few days.

Insects can be an issue with broccoli. Tate deals with any minor infestations naturally with a weekly rotation of neem-oil to repel bugs, diatomaceous earth powder to “freeze” them and Safer Brand soap to wash the plants.

Frost is not a problem for this cold-weather crop, but harvest timing is everything.

“Broccoli has to have a nice head, but you have to catch it before it flowers. After that, it’s over,” Tate said. “You have to put that 110-day mark from planting on the calendar and keep watch or you’ll miss it when they’re the best.”

Tate will sell the majority of his crop when it comes in early next month. The leftover florets will come home to his supper table.

“My wife makes this great fried broccoli that I’m already ready for,” he said. “I really am counting the days until this crop comes in.”

Tate’s broccoli is available for purchase at the Tupelo Farmers’ Market.

October 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

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photo credit Daily Journal

Historic Downtown Tupelo 662.842.6453 • Mall at Barnes Crossing 662.842.5287 • reedsms.com

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INVITATION TUPELO | October 2015

Historic Downtown Tupelo

October 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

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photographed by Chasity Dees

events Abbey Road Live!

View more event photos @ invitationtupelo.com.

Beatles cover band Abbey Road Live! performed Aug. 28 and 29 at the Link Centre. With more than 100 songs in their repertoire, the four-man band from Athens, Ga., has been touring since 2002 and specializes in start-to-finish Beatles album performances.

Brandy and Casey Dill

Jill and Perrin Crews

Julie and Fulton Thompson

Stephanie Aguilar and Meg Lindsay Dudley Sue and Gina Escalera

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INVITATION TUPELO | October 2015

Phillip and Alison Laney

Dawn Martin and James Morgan

Linda and Richard Gray

Beth Gafford and Helene Fielder

Manuela and Aidan Wilson with Petra Evans

Victor and Stewart McMillan

October 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

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events Moon and Magnolias View more event photos @ invitationtupelo.com.

Moon and Magnolias was held Aug. 29 to celebrate the founding of the Corinth School District Foundation, a nonprofit organization that will support the school district by funding enhanced academic opportunities and innovative programs through grants.

Bryson Avent, Graham Williams and Taylor Coombs

Corinth School District Superintendent Dr. Lee Childress and Dr. Vicki Gann Childress with former Corinth Superintendent Dr. Wayne Gann and Martha Gann

Rud and Debra Robison with Hayden Worsham

Terre Smith and Tammi Frazier

t es USA w Lo s in ce Pri

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INVITATION TUPELO | October 2015

Mark Coombs and Frank Howell with Becky and Andy Null

Danny and Noelle Crozier

Andrew and Wendy Shinault

Allan Lee, John D. Mercier and Mindy Draper

Pierce Langley and Courtney Craven

Allison and Ben Albarracin

photographed by Whitney Worsham

Donna Langley, Monya Hill and Suzanne Tucker

Sheila Gardner, Will Gardner, Madelynn Lynch and Mark Gardner

Spencer Lee, Kate Madden Worsham, Victoria Smith and Nick Craven

Alberto and Marianne Albarracin with Richard and Beth Hendrick

Kirk and Lisa Wigginton with Gwen and Eric Powell

Catherine Coleman, Courtney Beard, Allison Hall and Amy Chandler Kathi and Mayor Tommy Irwin

Erin Frazier, Mary Johns Pittman, Tracey Smith and Savannah Smith

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

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photographed by Chasity Dees

events Community Pep Rally View more event photos @ invitationtupelo.com.

The Tupelo Golden Waves led a community pep rally Sept. 3 in Fairpark. The marching band, cheerleaders and football players all took part in the rally, held the night before the first home football game against Shannon High School, which Tupelo won 55-16.

Christian Green and Farrah Cox

Lee Holman, Alex Scruggs, Austin Bouchillon, Isaac Tullos, Martavius Young and Garrett McGuire

Mary Elizabeth King, Emily Anderson, Rachel McGuire and Mace Hudson

Heddy and Philip Nunez

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INVITATION TUPELO | October 2015

Tripp and James Matthews with Chase Cannon

Lucy Dexter and Morgan Gailor

Karli Hill and Jaylin Baker

Mary Caroline Underwood, Lilla McGraw, Ashton Davis, Hannah Sheffield and Reid Chapman

Caroline Miller and Sadie Morgan Jasper

Beth Miller and Anna Wesleigh Driskell

Sadie Smith

662.678.3033 • 662.842.3844 Sadie@tmhomes.com

TUPELO | OXFORD 210 East Main St., Tupelo 2092 Old Taylor Rd., Oxford

“Sadie was more than willing to accommodate our needs and timelines. We truly feel that without her, we would not be in the home we are now in, the home that we absolutely love. We would recommend Sadie Smith as a real estate agent for many reasons.”

• Sheri & Jason “She truly listened to our desires and necessities, which was evident in the choice of listings she showed us.

She was always more than willing and flexible to accommodate our schedules. Without her, we would not be where we are today and in the house we have now.”

• Clayton & Lauren

D L O S 149 Ivywood Cv, Saltillo MLS#15-1815

1189 Dogwood Dr., Tupelo MLS#15-2930 $493,000 October 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

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Upon graduation of college I started work in sales all over the country. To this day it is the realm of business I enjoy most. Fortunately, I am in a position that allows me to combine my love of sales with my love of real estate. When passion and a sense of purpose are at the core of what you do, goals are met and great things can be accomplished.

Commercial real estate is what I do and I believe in the projects I take on. My clients see this and know they can depend on our partnership to meet their goals and needs.

Give me a call for any commercial/investment real estate need and we can see how far a partnership can take you.

brandon@tmhomes.com

SOLD 2148 Oakview Dr, Tupelo MLS#15-2391

Priced to Sell! Beautiful family home sits on a cozy, quiet 1 acre lot. Nestled under tall pine trees. 2 conversation areas, sunrrom, wonderful kitchen, back patio & garden. 5BR/3.5BA.

SOLD 780 Poplarville, Tupelo MLS#15-2382

Makes for great office space. Has receptionist desk & lobby area. Vacant lot next door. 2 new central cooling units. 10 rooms, several of which can be used for storage. 1 room cubicle desk. Set up w/ photography studio-can be easily converted into any type of space. $205,000

210 East Main St., Tupelo 28

INVITATION TUPELO | October 2015

TUPELO | OXFORD

2010 Nancy Dr, Tupelo MLS#15-2476 Completely renovated and updated.

Swimming pool, covered back patio, private backyard, plenty of storage completely renovated and updated. 3 bedrooms, 4 full baths. Seller is related to agent.

2092 Old Taylor Rd., Oxford

1603 Joyner, Tupelo MLS#15-1479

Great new lot w/ lots of potential.

Perfect for building a 3BR/2BA house w/ porch! Come check it out! $21,900

tmhomes.com

Jenny Decker 662.871.7653 662.842.3844 jennyd@tmhomes.com

TUPELO | OXFORD 210 East Main St., Tupelo 2092 Old Taylor Rd., Oxford

1507 Morning Glory, Tupelo MLS#15-1006 $320,000

191 Poplar Springs Dr., Tupelo MLS#15-2935 $514,900

4394 View Cv., Tupelo MLS#15-2934 $259,900

October 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

29

photographed by Chasity Dees

events Fall Movie in the Park View more event photos @ invitationtupelo.com.

A record crowd gathered to watch Cinderella on the big screen Sept. 25 in Veterans Park. The free, family-friendly event was hosted

by Tupelo’s Department of Parks and Recreation, and it coincided with the annual Family Camp Out.

April and Kenzi Spears

Kadi and Leah Jones

Nanami Kotani, Bryce Newsom and Lily-Claire Mann

Grace Harmon and Kaitlyn Barney

Will Harmon and Ashley Whitehead

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INVITATION TUPELO | October 2015

Lexi and Tabitha Tate with Aleigha Hatfield

Drew Warren and Lasea Rogers

Charlee Brooke and Chris Parker

Raele and McKenzie Bishop

Kevin Knight 662.401.2913 • 662.842.3844 Kevin@tmhomes.com

Over 5 Million Sold in 3 Months!

TUPELO | OXFORD 210 East Main St., Tupelo 2092 Old Taylor Rd., Oxford

530 Reese Road, Fulton MLS#15-1490 $235,000

2705 Joe Wheeler Brown Road, Fulton MLS#15-2044 $899,900

235 Brown Cv, Fulton

MLS#15-2893 $260,000 October 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

31

photographed by Lisa Roberts

events Down on Main Concert View more event photos @ invitationtupelo.com.

Tupelo’s free summer concert series ended its 2015 season Sept. 10 with a concert featuring singer-songwriters Tim Easton and James McMurtry. For more information on the annual event, visit tupelodownonmain.com.

Ron Collins and Julius Mendoza

Carr and Jane Sams with Zeus and Zoey

Deloris Jenkins, Cora Polson, Mary Ann Elmore and Don Sheffield

Alyssa Isenhour and Blake Allen

Charlotte Mullinnix, David Anderson and Gena Nolan with Tammy and Ed Bartee

Sherri Reese, Barbara Fleishhacker, Kim Wade and Alex Farned

Ivy Dees and Melba Williams

Kathy Anderson and Richard Tucker

Hunter and Blaine Guin

Jenny Decker

662.871.7653 • 662.842.3844 jennyd@tmhomes.com tmhomes.com

210 East Main St., Tupelo 2092 Old Taylor Rd., Oxford

32

INVITATION TUPELO | October 2015

700 W George E Allen Dr, Booneville MLS#15-2068

Luxury gated estate located on 40 acres of meticulously landscaped grounds with 2 lakes.

Attention to every detail makes this 5 Bedrooms, 6 Full and 1 half Bath home magnificent with sweeping marble staircase, grand hall, living room with 20 ft ceiling, handmade crystal chandelier, media room with mahogany walls/ceiling, master suite with fireplace, kitchen with custom made bricks, lye maple and teak cabinetry and all upper end appliances. $2,850,000.

TUPELO | OXFORD

Joel & Lauren Vann

662.397.1545 • 662.397.1547 vann@tmhomes.com 210 East Main St., Tupelo 2092 Old Taylor Rd., Oxford

TUPELO | OXFORD

tmhomes.com

1592 Morning Glory Cr, Tupelo MLS# 15-1761 Welcome to Springlake! Spaciously designed 4BD/4BA. Gorgeous private pool & Jacuzzi complete w/pool house that includes a porch, wet bar, 1/2 BA & storage. Inside boasts of lg open kitchen w/eat-at-bar & breakfast area, formal dining, living area w/3 sided gas fireplace, large master w/gas FP & stunning Master BA, private office, 3-car garage, sunroom w/exposed brick overlooking backyard oasis w/professional landscaping & fully fenced private bckyrd. $363,500

50056 Huck Lann Dr, Amory MLS#15-2393 Must See Waterfront Property! Custom built w/ breathtaking view on the Tenn-Tom waterway. 3BR/3BA home has 200+ ft of water frontage on main waterway at Aberdeen Lake, dock, sep. air conditioned 16’x16’ utility bldg, covered patio, glass sunroom, dbl garage + RV port 34 x 14 w/ water, electric, & sewer hook-ups. Huge family room, formal dining, office, huge bedroom or bonus room/bath/finished attic storage upstairs. $339,000

October 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

33

photographed by Chasity Dees

events Summer Movie Series View more event photos @ invitationtupelo.com.

Big Hero 6 was shown Aug. 29 in Ballard Park as part of Tupelo Parks and Recreation’s Summer Movie Series. Family-friendly movies were shown for free monthly throughout the summer and included Paddington and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.

Brailey Tackett and Jenni Latsady

Joey and Elijah Royce

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INVITATION TUPELO | October 2015

Kellan and Casi Dees

Amanda Satterfield and Aubrei Wilson

Michael Asa and Jessica Whitehead

Jordan Tapp and Alisha Curry

Kerry and Scotty Collins

Rylan and Scott Dees

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

Brenda Spencer 662.231.8909 662.842.3844 spencer@tmhomes.com

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

TUPELO | OXFORD 210 East Main St., Tupelo 2092 Old Taylor Rd., Oxford

644 N Madison, Tupelo MLS#15-1324 $449,900 • Freshly painted inside

4521 Ridgemoor, Ridgeway MLS#15-1281 $287,700 • Freshly painted inside

112 Ridgeview Cv, High Forest MLS#15-1493 $445,000 • Shop October 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

35

photographed by Lisa Roberts

events Emergency Responders Appreciation Day Luncheon View more event photos @ invitationtupelo.com.

Tupelo manufacturing company T&L Specialty hosted a cookout for first responders on Sept. 16. The company held the event to show appreciation to police, firefighters, EMS personnel and others who serve the community.

Lisa Robinson and Jackie Clayton

Alan Chavers, Tracy Crysup and Brett Moyer

Veronica Morris and Charles McDougald

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INVITATION TUPELO | October 2015

Katarsha White, Othea James, Alicia Waldrop and Jonita Mitchell

Nick DeClement, John Horton and Sonny Jones

James Hood, Mike Carson, Tim Overton and Jason Whitenton

Robert Carnathan and Cecil Overton

Keith Bowdry, Mike Amicone and Matt Wiginton

Matthew West, Angie Lesley, Brandon Flowers and Michael Fugitt

Keith Henley

Keith Henley 662.213.5599 662.213.5599 662.842.3844 662.842.3844 www.henleyproperties.com www.henleyproperties.com

TUPELO | OXFORD

TUPELO | OXFORD 210 Main St., St.,Tupelo Tupelo 210 East East Main 2092 Old Taylor 2092 TaylorRd., Rd.,Oxford Oxford LIKE US ON FACEBOOK

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October 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

37

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

Sanctuary Hospice House’s Junior Auxiliary presented Boots, Bluegrass & BBQ Aug. 29 at The Antler. The fundraiser event included a barbecue tasting dinner, door prizes, a raffle for a 1-carat diamond ring and music by the Great American Holy Ghost Electric Show.

Twana and Edwin Crenshaw

Leanne Pounders, Diana Pittman, Rachel Cash, Britni Beasley and Catherine Yarber

Holly and Chris Rogers

Summer Smith and Lindsey Everitt

Morris and Melissa Miley

Abby Wallace and Jessie Leddy

Chad West, Maury Giachelli, John Guyton and Josh Sullivan

Tracy Scott, Allie Lee, Holley Meriweather and Maggie Clark

Cody Cummings, Don Kelly Stewart, Wade Smith, Jordan Beane and Greg Stovall

Bryan Ellis, Johnny Burk, Steven Floyd, Ruff Thomas and Cole Wiygul

Ginny Smith, Toni Floyd and Natalie Ellis

Brittany and Kyle Rogers with Harris Rhea, Hank Hutto, and Kent and Nancy Dees

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INVITATION TUPELO | October 2015

photographed by Lisa Roberts

Stan and Ethel Benge

Kristen Tucker and Melanie Moore

Madeline White, Katie Pannell, Gracie Menetre and Danielle Burk

Meg Curtis and Kylie Boring with Albine and Jayme Bennett October 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

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INVITATION TUPELO | October 2015

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1433 Lakeshire Dr., Tupelo MLS#15-2271 $299,000

October 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

41

These local animal lovers are making Mississippi a better place for creatures big and small.

WRITTEN BY Melanie Crownover | PHOTOGRAPHED BY Joe Worthem

DON’T BE CRUEL: A LOOK INSIDE THE WORK OF AN ANIMAL CRUELTY INVESTIGATOR Animal cruelty investigator Summer Knight (pictured with Fluffy and Porter) has seen too much abuse to stand by complacently.

“You wouldn’t think there’s much of that kind of thing going on around here, but the truth is heartbreaking,” said Knight, a Tupelo native.

After retiring from dog grooming in 2011 and a short stint as the interim director of the local animal shelter in 2013, Knight trained with the University of Missouri’s Animal Cruelty Investigation School to go into private practice.

She’s assisted on five cases breaking up state puppy mills and dog fighting rings since she opened shop in January. Now she’s working to organize Mississippi Animals Rescued from Cruelty (MARC), a no-kill rescue and rehabilitation facility for survivors of similar situations.

“I didn’t choose to do this; it chose me,” she said. “It’s like the more I get involved, the more my eyes are opened and can’t be reshut. One puppy mill alone has up to 300 dogs who’ve lived in a little rabbit cage their whole life with no good human interaction. If not rehabilitated, most end up euthanized at a

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INVITATION TUPELO | October 2015

typical shelter.”

MARC would give judges the option to place seized animals in rehabilitation while a cruelty trial is pending in the court system, which sometimes takes more than six months.

The rescue can also help find homes for the dogs after the trial ends.

Knight applied for nonprofit state and federal status earlier this year, and she is currently awaiting business license approval while she looks for a suitable plot of land and a building for the rescue. The organization’s board is in place, and she plans to have MARC up and running sometime in 2016.

In the meantime, Knight is also working with the Mississippi State Council for the Humane Society to change state cruelty laws.

The plan is to make aggravated abuse a felony and ensure that if multiple animals are abused, the perpetrator is charged one count each instead of one count for all.

“It’s a horrific life these babies are living, and I just want to make it better somehow,” she said. “The ultimate goal is to shut down the people who are behind it, decrease the number of abused dogs the shelters intake and get these dogs the help they need so they can find a happy home.”

October 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

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“IT GETS OVERWHELMING SOMETIMES, BUT WHEN THEY RUN UP TO ME AT THE END OF THE DAY OR I GET TO VISIT ONE AT THE PARK AFTER THEY LEAVE ME, IT’S ALL WORTH IT. EVERYONE NEEDS A FAMILY, AND I KNOW THEY DEPEND ON ME FOR THAT. IT’S MY ADDICTION. SOME PEOPLE BUY SHOES; I HELP ANIMALS.” -April Underwood

BIG BABIES: A VOLUNTEER HELPS CARE FOR LARGE ANIMALS WHEN THEY’RE YOUNG From cleaning kennels to assisting during surgery, April Underwood has done a little bit of everything during the past 14 years as a Saltillo, Miss., veterinary assistant. In 2012 she began using her professional skills after hours as a volunteer for the Tupelo Buffalo Park.

That’s when Underwood, whose friends used to call her Ellie Mae after the animalloving Beverly Hillbillies character, took her first newborn calf home.

“It was a Watusi longhorn-and-yak cross the mother had abandoned, and they didn’t have anyone to be its surrogate mama and bottle feed it through the night,” she said. “So I got up in the middle of the night with it and even took it to work to feed it during the day until it was big enough to start eating hay at about two months old.”

Since then, the Pratt community native

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INVITATION TUPELO | October 2015

has become the park’s go-to surrogate each season, nursing to health goats, sheep, foals and even buffalo babies whose natural mothers have pushed them away.

“We couldn’t do what we do here without her,” park co-owner Sheila Franklin said. “She’s saved many a life at this park.”

The young animals fit right in on Underwood’s 10 acres of fenced farmland with her seven horses, nine dogs and four cats. They become part of her family life, too. One buffalo calf attended a Trunk or Treat event with her family, and many animals have ridden in the back seat of her car for after-school activities.

“It gets overwhelming sometimes, but when they run up to me at the end of the day or I get to visit one at the park after they leave me, it’s all worth it. Everyone needs a family, and I know they depend on me for that,” Underwood said. “It’s my addiction. Some people buy shoes; I help animals.”

October 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

45

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trunk or

TREAT

A growing downtown tradition offers a safe environment and sweet treats for Halloween revelers of all ages.

WRITTEN BY Melanie Crownover | ILLUSTRATED BY Laurie G. Fisher

fewer parents feel comfortable letting their kids troll their neighborhoods to trick-or-treat, the Halloween tradition is slowly becoming a thing of the past; it’s starting to sound like a legend too sweet to be true.

But Tupelo is keeping the spirit of the night alive with a new twist on the holiday custom. For Trunk or Treat, traffic shuts down, and cars with candy-stocked trunks line up along West Jefferson Street, creating a safe, festive and family-friendly place for sweets-seekers in costumes.

“We all grew up walking down the street

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INVITATION TUPELO | October 2015

and going door-to-door for candy – I even went by myself – but it’s a different world now,” planning committee member Leigh McGregor said. “For so many people, that’s just not an option anymore. So we block the street and let them go car-to-car. That’s pretty close.”

The push to organize the event came from an unlikely source.

First United Methodist Church started the event as a fall festival for their youngest members in 2008, but they soon realized it wasn’t just the church that needed an alternative to Halloween fun.

FUMC opened the event free to the

October 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

49

public in 2012, and nearby churches quickly began signing on to help with the celebration.

First Presbyterian Church, All Saints’ Episcopal Church and St. Paul United Methodist Church have come on board since then, as have the Lee County Library and Downtown Tupelo Main Street Association.

“Being a part of this has been a great way to reach out to our neighborhood and unite our churches with no regards to denomination, but it’s been really amazing to see all of Tupelo come together that night, too. It’s fellowship for the whole community now,” First Presbyterian organizer Meg Lindsay Dudley said.

Each congregation and organization has its own contribution to make. First Presbyterian usually pops popcorn and hands out hot chocolate, St. Paul’s brings nachos and FUMC has chili dogs for the crowd. Last year, FUMC added live music to the gathering and welcomed the firefighters and fire truck from Station Number 1 to hand out candy. All

50

INVITATION TUPELO | October 2015

Saints’ had a hay maze. The library joined in to pass out pencils, candy and bookmarks.

In addition, volunteers from the host churches and others from all over the city decorate their cars and suit up to hand out goodies to the kids. The churches take up candy donations weeks before the event and pass them out to make sure every car is fully stocked with sweets.

The Trunk or Treat crew says the crowd grows every year. Despite abnormally cold weather, high winds and a date that coincided with high school football games in 2014, Halloween revelers still crowded the street.

Organizers expect this year’s event to be even bigger and better.

“That first year, our church really stepped out on faith to make this happen; now it’s become a three-block-long party that we all work together to pull off,” organizer Kristen Partin said. “It’s an outreach to make sure every kid out there has a safe, contained place to have fun.”

Trunk or Treat takes place

5-7 P.M. ON OCT. 31

on Jefferson Street between Green Street and Robins Street.

To volunteer or get guidelines for candy donations, contact FUMC at 662-690-8100. All volunteers must sign up by Oct. 26.

NORTH MISSISSIPPI SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA presents

City Lights Featuring the music of Charlie Chaplin

October 31, 2015 at 7:30pm Tupelo High School Performing Arts Center Call 662.842.8433 for tickets or visit www.nmsymphony.com

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October 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

51

Black cats and dogs aren’t considered bad luck in the Tollison household where several of the four-legged animals have been adopted into the family.

WRITTEN BY Melanie Crownover | PHOTOGRAPHED BY Joe Worthem

Deas Tollison jokes that overly superstitious people should probably stay far away from her household, which includes four black cats and three black dogs. When a black cat or dog comes across her path, it typically ends up becoming one of the family.

Families like the Tollisons that take in black-coated animals are unusual, as old superstitious stereotypes that label black cats as bad luck and black dogs as mean make it

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INVITATION TUPELO | October 2015

difficult for these animals to get adopted from the shelters.

In fact, animal shelters all over the country, including the Tupelo-Lee Humane Society, run specials through the year on black cat and dog adoptions to offset the fact that they are so often overlooked.

“It’s called Black Dog Syndrome, but it applies to both [cats and dogs],” the local humane society’s executive director, Donna Jarrell, said.

“They’re usually the last to be adopted and will

MEREDITH DEAS TOLLISON WITH BORIS October 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

53

MEREDITH DEAS TOLLISON WITH ZOD

most likely be euthanized. Whether it’s because there are more of them since black is a dominant coat color, or they don’t photograph as easily, or the negative image in popular culture or some superstition, we have to do everything we can to help them find forever homes.”

Tollison’s menagerie began when a black kitten showed up outside her Crosstown apartment 15 years ago.

“I guess I’ve always rooted for the underdog … or cat. I was determined that one day I would have a black cat named Bela Lugosi after

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INVITATION TUPELO | October 2015

the actor who played the original Dracula, but I didn’t think it would work out,” she said.

Her fiancé (now husband) was allergic to cats. After several nights of putting the mewling kitten on the front porch, he decided to compromise. His sinuses eventually adapted, which they decided was a sign of Bela’s good luck.

Their next rescue, another black kitten called Kirby, showed up on the steps just three months later. It was the beginning of a theme for the couple, even after they moved to their

current home in Tupelo and Kirby died of feline leukemia.

Then came Vader, a Star Wars-christened Labrador retriever puppy found on the side of the road, and an abandoned cat they named Boris after the actor who played Frankenstein. The runt puppy from a friend’s litter became General Zod in homage to the evil Kryptonian from Superman II. Next, two stray black kittens arrived within two weeks of each other – one named for Toulouse in The Aristocats and the other Mina, for the lead female in the Dracula story.

For more information on specials on black cats and dogs offered by the Tupelo-Lee Humane Society, visit them at 2400 S. Gloster St. or call them at 662-841-6500. To get to know the Tupelo-Lee Humane Society’s new black cat mascot, Wrigley, visit invitationtupelo.com.

After Bela died four years ago, Meredith thought she was done taking in animals, until she found a tiny black kitten under the hood of her work delivery van three months later. She drove 5 miles across town before she heard it meowing and stopped.

“When I called my husband and stepson, they said we absolutely didn’t need to get another cat. But I told them technically, we did. The universe sent us one, just like always,” she said.

The new kitten became Delilah because the family agreed she could squash even Samp-

son’s masculinity with her cuteness.

The Tollison family has had the opportunity to broaden the color spectrum of their furry companions over the years, but they’ve resisted. There’s something about the solidarity of their motley pack that even the temptation of a free, white kitten from next door couldn’t break.

They most recently adopted two black pups they coined Clinton and Barnaby from Dark Shadows to ensure Zod would have healthy playmates when Vader fell sick. There

is still a hole in the family since the lab died a few months ago, but the Tollisons know that if another animal is to fill that gap, it will show up on the front doorstep at just the right time.

“If I could, I would go to the shelter and rescue every black cat and dog there because I know what trouble they have finding homes for them, but I think we’re at maximum capacity right now unless we get a farm,” Tollison said. “Still, I’m pretty sure we’d be sunk if one showed up tomorrow. We’ve never turned one away before.”

October 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

55

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INVITATION TUPELO | October 2015

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events The Price Is Right Live View more event photos @ invitationtupelo.com.

The Price Is Right fans got a chance to “come on down” and spin the big wheel on Sept. 17 when The Price Is Right Live touring show came to BancorpSouth Arena. For a schedule of upcoming shows at the arena, visit bcsarena.com.

Shannon Duran, Hillary Shaw, Ragen Loden, Katlyn Voyles and Robin Lindsey

Leigh Knox, Abby Newman, Miranda Jones, Kim Surber, Phillip Wilburn, Chelsea Spain and Kyrstal Black

Lucille Phillips and Elizabeth Kerby

Lisa Wren and Ami Bell

Jean Terry and Annette Petty

Marie Poindexter, Tracy Harris and Stephanie Boyd

Bobbie Hill with Victoria, Renee and Mallory Gray

Phaedra Buchanan and Yolanda Ferguson with Cierra and Ashley Vaughan, Selina Crayton, Jeanna Davis, Cathy Stephanie Crayton Edwards and Nancy Crump

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INVITATION TUPELO | October 2015

Valerie and Marla Voyles

Savannah Hines, Laura Norton and Cortney Canada

Cathy Lesley, Jaren Earnest, Dena Miles and Keisha Norfleet

photographed by Lisa Roberts

Celia Fleishhacker and Shirley Scott

Samantha and Veronica McAlister

Melody Kirk and Frances Coltharp

Kim Yarber and Lisa Whittington October 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

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photographed by Lisa Roberts

events Joyner Elementary Fall Festival View more event photos @ invitationtupelo.com.

People of all ages attended the Joyner Elementary Fall Festival, held Sept. 25 at the school. The annual event is a fundraiser for Joyner’s Parent-Teacher Association.

Nicole Hazel and Chloe McElhenney

Allyssa Ferguson, Summer Bryan, Mayor Jason Shelton, Malia Crump, Erin Matthews and Kim Gillon

Mary Carson and Jo Carol Kieffer with Susie Pharr and Carole Elliott

Kieanna and Cadence Morris

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INVITATION TUPELO | October 2015

Cade Babb, Jasmine Steinman and Alton Gable

Imory and Cheqitta Ivy

Victoria Hall, Jana Kidd, Marilyn Morrison and Kristina Weir

Elizabeth and Libby Lair with Angie Haynes Cameron Blanchard and Samantha and Robin Carruth Shackelford

Montana Murff and Kim Roberts

October 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

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photographed by Chasity Dees

events Tallahatchie Riverfest View more event photos @ invitationtupelo.com.

Downtown New Albany, Miss., hosted hundreds of visitors Sept. 25-26 for the Tallahatchie Riverfest, a celebration that included live music, an arts market, food vendors, a Ferris wheel and fireworks. Visit tallahatchieriverfest.com to learn more about the annual festival.

Don Thorson and Dalton Farley

Courtney, Avery, Jonathan and Ellie Bryant

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INVITATION TUPELO | October 2015

Morgan Adair, Kinsey Cobb, Taylor Wages and Mallory Jilley

Mason and Betsy Wages

Bernard and Jan Whiteside

Olivia High and Kasey Carson

Katelyn Thompson with Grace and Tracey Aldridge

Tracie Dabney with Danielle, Mallory and Emma Perkins and Charley Dabney

Jamie Bramlitt, Jane Ford and Mary Webb

YOUR HOMETOWN FAN SHOP! 115 N. Thomas St., Suite D, Tupelo, MS 38801 662-260-4284 • www.gamedayhqshop.com

October 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

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photographed by Lisa Roberts

events BNI Charity Golf Tournament View more event photos @ invitationtupelo.com.

Networking group BNI MidSouth held its first charity golf tournament Sept. 24 at Big Oaks Golf Course to raise money for Northeast Mississippi Down Syndrome Society, which provides support, education and help to parents and children who have Down syndrome.

Brenda and Al Wiygul

Lisa Cannon; Alisha Bryant; Taylor and Bill Rosenthal; Preston, Scott and Chandler Knight Matt Westcott and Curtis Loveless

Matt Scopel, Andy Dyson and Will Troxler

Chuck Counce and David Cayson

Mark Jarrett, Marla Elmore, Dennis Morse, Roger Elmore and Larry Landry

Damon Palmer, Trey Trapp and Michael McCrory

Courtney Humphries, Lee Jones, Caleb Knotts and Andy Bryant

Jason Germany and Packy Sullivan

Mark Simpson and Chris Root

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- Elizabeth Taylor

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INVITATION TUPELO | October 2015

662.844.6955

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

www.tupelodiamonds.com

Carol Cantrell Knight

ELECT POSITIVE CHANGE for Monroe County

14 Years of Customer Service Experience 10 Years of Leadership Experience 35 Years of Loyalty, Accountability, Determination, Energy, Respect, Selflessness, Integrity, Passion & Pride in work

Circuit Clerk November 3rd

TOM’S

Automotive Service Center 317 Magazine St. Tupelo | MS

662.842.7931

toms-automotive.com Serving Tupelo since 1952

WE OFFER THE BEST! AUTO REPAIRS COLLISION air conditioning full collision service alignment free estimates brakes all insurance accepted engine suspension OPEN Monday-Friday timing belts 7:30am-5:30pm transmissions computer diagnosis Jeff B. Roberston Jr. | Owner Anthony Knight | Body Shop Manager October 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

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photographed by Chasity Dees

events Out of the Darkness Walk View more event photos @ invitationtupelo.com.

The second annual Out of the Darkness Walk for suicide awareness and prevention was held Sept. 26 at Veterans Park. The event benefited the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. To learn more about the organization, visit afsp.org.

Addison Gable and Wendy Stafford

Ashley Morgan, Jena Pennington, Rani Higgins and Anna Jeter

Amy Moore, Buddy Westmoreland and Kourtney Fooshee

Josh Lambert and Tori Raines

Kayla Pickens, Tiffani Jensen and Julie Grisham

Roslyn Boles and Bobbie Marie Pope

Lisa Holman and Gail Austin

Daniel and Dustin Meeks with Emily Kowach and Jaycob Pennington

Austin Young and Mariah Herron

Marsha Williams and Kacy Howell

CONGRATULATIONS TO RETA DOUGHTY FOR SALES EXCEEDING “1 MILLION DOLLARS” IN SEPTEMBER, 2015

123 Prairie Cv., Tupelo, MS 38801 MLS #15-2293 $218,000

471 CR 600, Shannon, MS 38868 MLS 15-2884 $725,000

1222 Clayton Ave., Tupelo, MS 38804 1739 Northwood, Tupelo, MS 38804 MLS #15-2304 $199,000

Testimonial “Reta went above and beyond the duties of a Realtor during the purchase of my first house. She was completely professional and still personal during the whole process. I knew very little in terms of legalities and the buying process, but Reta made it all very easy and worry free. Needless to say, I’ll be referring her to all my friends looking to buy or sell as well as using her in the future.”

Dr. Ryan Black

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INVITATION TUPELO | October 2015

MLS #15-832 $449,500

Call us for your listing appointment now!!

Pinnacle Realty, LLC 398 East Main Street, Suite 101 Tupelo, MS 38804 662-321-0191 • 662-266-2006

October 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

67

photographed by Chasity Dees

events Smokey Joe’s Cafe View more event photos @ invitationtupelo.com.

Tupelo Community Theatre performed musical revue Smokey Joe’s Cafe Sept. 17-19 at the Lyric Theatre to kick off its 2015-16 season.

This season also includes A Christmas Carol, You Can’t Take It With You, A Higher Place in Heaven and Mary Poppins.

Jana Eakes, Skye Dodge and Warren Eakes Leah and Sydini Davis

Annanias Word, Sheryl Zinn, Allison Griswold, Stephanie Green Stubbs and Jeffery Jones

Lynn Nelson and Tonya Smith

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INVITATION TUPELO | October 2015

Mersaidee Soules, Isaiah Traylor and Richie Smith

Harley Trantham and Mandy Boyd

Michea and Jaleel West

Beverly and Bill Coccari

Caitlin Gardner and Maya Mayfield

Ben Eakes, Tenecia Guise and Michael Breedlove

Nicholas Oliver and Alexandria Neal

109 North Spring St. Tupelo, MS

662-687-2551

i t v e a e T r o C uch e h T

Day Spa & Salon Hair Services • Hair Removal • Extensions • Spray Tanning Nails • Massage • Makeup • Facials & Microderms • Bridal

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

www.creativetouchtupelo.com • 2613-A Tracewood Dr., October 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

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photographed by Lisa Roberts

events Hog Roasters Golf Tournament View more event photos @ invitationtupelo.com.

Tupelo Hog Roasters hosted a charity golf tournament Sept. 26 at Natchez Trace Golf Club to benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital, Ronald McDonald House and North Mississippi Medical Center Hospice Patient Care Fund.

Tony and Jackson Finch with Will, Jon and Cade Hamm

Kyle Sharpton, Tim Hartwig, Josh Moore, Reid Curtis and Tim Stieffel

Wesley Roberts, John Decker, Clint Berthay and Josh Logan

Tom Ginn, Dick Daugherty, Jim Alexander and Hezz Williams

James Hopkins, Joe Young, David and Brent Gable, and Levi Bishop

Chase Hill and Bill Diggs with Adam and Zack Hill

Jacob Dixon and Dustin Bates with Matt and Mitchell Herring

Mike and Joel Bennett with Gary Pace and Jerry Bramlett

Blake McCullough, Jake Logan, Drew Headings and Ryan Berry

Matt Turner, Bradley Smith, Michael Turner and Scott Weatherly

Mike and Lowery Cox with Charlie Westmoreland and Micky Davis

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INVITATION TUPELO | October 2015

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

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

Call her today at 662.293.0346

3123 Shiloh Road Corinth | Mississippi SellingCorinth.com 662.287.5557

We offer:

• Sports physicals • Drug and alcohol testing • Allergy testing • Minor Dermatological procedures

Monday - Friday 10 - 5 Saturday 10 - 4 • Sunday - Closed 346-A West Oxford St. Pontotoc, Ms 662-489-1074

• DOT physicals • EPSDT exams • Vaccinations • X-ray available

Everyone is welcome...Appointments or Walk-Ins NOW AVAILABLE: FLU & PNEUMONIA SHOTS Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, 8am - 6pm; Wednesday 8am - 5pm

1424 East Main, Tupelo (Next to Creative Cakes)

662.350.3550

October 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

71

photographed by Chasity Dees

events Blessed are the Peacemakers 5K View more event photos @ invitationtupelo.com.

Wives of Warriors (W.O.W.) sponsored a 5K run/walk Sept. 26 to appreciate and remember law enforcement. The event benefited Mississippi officers in need and their families, and a scholarship in memory of Sgt. Gale Stauffer and Master Sgt. John Collum.

Jenny Payne with Jennifer, John and Abby Jones

Laura Hankins, Myra Collins, Mayor Jason Shelton, Carolyn Beasley and Shane Aguirre

Alyssa Johnson and Laura Pannell

Jay and Verita Marshall

Lara Gary and Sharon Stokes

Helen McDougald with Camille and Emmalee Mangum

Chris and Kristi Beckish

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INVITATION TUPELO | October 2015

Stephanie, Noah, Anna Belle and Maggie Collum

Justin and Kalee Sanders with Kaitlin Kimbourgh

Judy Woods and Chelsea Rick

Liz, Emma and Pierce Crockett

Rimmi Rae Eiland, Jimma McGee and Deandre Eiland

Janine and Clay Hassell

Shop • Dine • Visit

Catering Good Eats

New Albany,

Mississippi

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

MAGAZINE ▼

WHAT’S HAPPENING

EVENT PHOTOS

BLOG ▼

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Visit invitationtupelo.com today!

Joyner Elementary Festival

MORE stories.

MORE photos.

MORE user-friendly.

SAME local flavor.

We’re now on Instagram!

Follow us @invitationtupelo October 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

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events Oktoberfest View more event photos @ invitationtupelo.com.

A Bavarian-style festival was held Oct. 1 in Fairpark. Authentic German food, music and costumes were part of the fall celebration, which was Tupelo’s second annual Oktoberfest.

Sabrina Hawkins, Justin Jones, Samantha McLarty, Traci Tanner, Drew Griffith, Jessica Harbin and Cindy Burnette

Nick Hancock and Hope Staples

Craig Helmuth, Debbie Brangenberg and Jessica Hollinger

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INVITATION TUPELO | October 2015

Clay and Janine Hassell with Ashley White, Britney Keith and Tracy Crysup

Sam Sidler and Amber Shelton

Leigh Buntin and Lori Bostick

Kenny and Sandra Owen; Ginger and Rodney Shands; and Allen and Gracie Jackson

photographed by Lisa Roberts

Bethney and Chad Speck

Jason and Amanda Hayden

Serving North Mississippi for all your landscape design, installation, and maintenance needs.

Stacey and Justisse Reichert

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Larry Eurek and Dreama Breedlove

JASON TUBB Owner/Designer 662-501-0181 • www.cornerstonelandscapesms.com

Call Now For a Free Estimate

October 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

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out and about ABOUT THE SOUTH TAILGATING EVENT

Sophie, Emily, Gray and Elizabeth Witcher

Cameron and Hunter Guice with Moe Livingston

HUNTER DOUGLAS TUPELO CELEBRATES 30 YEARS

TOUCH-A-TRUCK

Verona Mayor Robert Trice, Anita Fowler, Mike Berry, U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, Jim Wall and Mike Robinson

Tammy Martin with Ella Beth, Brody, Baden and Laura Honeycutt

Kaye Roper, Marilyn Witcher and Lynn McAlpin

Katarsha White with Annalise, Godfrey and Emma Jennings

NORTH MISSISSIPPI MEDICAL CENTER’S SPIRIT OF WOMEN HOSTS A BABY FAIR

Connie Haygood, Lauren Washington and Morgan Raines Kacie and Danyelle Floyd with Mai Fair

Toni Hill and Shavonda Maxwell

MEET AND GREET FOR FULTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Mike and Sandra Nanney with Liz Beasley and Jana and Joey Steele

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INVITATION TUPELO | October 2015

Lynette Weatherford, Ann Izard, Laurie Cagle, Marcia Eaton and Vaunita Martin

Shannon Robbins, Kevin Knight and Stephanie Loden

CONTINUED ON PAGE 78 TREVOR BENNETT EXHIBIT AT GUMTREE MUSEUM

Jäger Palad and M.J. Torrecampo

Howard Hinds and Jim Diffee

Jessica Hollinger and Kathy Corban

MRS. MISSISSIPPI SEND-OFF PARTY AT T. FEAZELL’S

FARMHOUSE CELEBRATES TWO YEARS IN DOWNTOWN TUPELO

Tadd Feazell, Lee Ann Nuckolls, Mrs. Mississippi Chelsey Crum, Delayna Bridges and Caitlyn Jedofsky

Ikuko Fujii, Beverly Crossen and Mihoko Nagai

Terry Williams and Michael Ashley

Debbie Brangenberg and Autumn Godwin

TUPELO FAIR

Katie Hays, Shelby Simmons, Rob Winters and Reece Ott

Andi Herring, Cade Knight, Laila Grace Ledbetter, Bryce Mitchell, Caitlyn Harlow, Noah Collum, Mallori Roncalli and Pate Phillips

2015 TUPELO PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICT TEACHER OF DISTINCTION AWARDS

Dora Bell, Brenda Turner, Donna Bridges, Carole Elliott and Meredith Craig

Jennifer Mathis, Jethlynn McCraw, April West, Ann Marie Goad and Virginia Miller

Patricia Parker, Kit Stafford, Dana Maharrey, Laura Sheffield and Lindsey Dill October 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO

77

out and about

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 77

WINE AND CHEESE SOCIAL HOUR AT TUPELO BARK PARK

Jessika Bolen with Matilda

Summer Knight and Shanta Bolden

PLANE INSTALLATION AT VETERANS PARK

LIVING HISTORY DAYS AT OREN DUNN MUSEUM

Mike Knight with Gerald and Charlotte Hill

Cristina, Ethan, Brady and Hannah Davis

Catherine Harden with Jackson

Jana Cornelius, Pat Arinder and Alicia Goss

TOYOTA MISSISSIPPI NAMED NATIONAL SITE FOR NATIONAL PUBLIC LANDS DAY AT TOMBIGBEE STATE PARK

Bre’Onna Suggs, Beth Harrison, Jackie Polk, Jaquez Berry and Jeremiah Carter

Markietta Furguson, Tony Hobson, Katina Williams, Jerry Bailey, Jaslynn Williams, Kaleb Hall, Russell Basham, Jeff Hudson, Lisa Trimble and Jon Cooper

TUPELO FIREFIGHTER BEATS AMERICAN POWERLIFTING ASSOCIATION WORLD RECORD

FAMILY CAMPOUT AT VETERANS PARK

Brandon and Hannah Bruce

Raigen Frazier, McKayla Smith and Jalicia Smith

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INVITATION TUPELO | October 2015

Lepatrick Lucas, Larry O’Neil, Federick Burks, Tyler Basham and Jacob Bailey

Sydney Mattox and Larry Kuykendall

Deanna, Joseph, Chris and Daniel Kieffer

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79

TUPELO SPIRIT David Sistrunk

This fall Itawamba Community College began offering the Mississippi Army National Guard’s Magnolia GOLD program to its students.

Instructor Sgt. 1st Class David Sistrunk discusses what this means for the college.

Q: What does GOLD stand for?

A: Guard Officer Leadership Development.

It’s a program open to any National Guard or Reserve soldier and to civilians, too.

Q: What do future soldiers learn?

A: It helps get them on track for civilian careers by having me as a mentor to make sure they’re getting the right classes for their major and getting the work done to graduate on time. That’s important because with the Guard, you get the career you want while you serve. As far as the military, it gives them the information about how to get where they want to go as a soldier.

Q: What about nonmilitary students?

A: Civilians learn multiple leadership styles through the eyes of the military. They get professional life skills to apply later with no obligation to join, and it looks great on a résumé.

Q: What’s the class commitment?

A: We meet at 6 a.m. for physical training and have class from 8 to 9:45 a.m., Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Q: How is it different from ROTC? A: It’s actually the same curriculum as ROTC at Mississippi State and Ole Miss. That means they can transfer their credits over to their fouryear college when they finish here. I think it’s one of the best things the Guard has ever done for their soldiers’ education.

Q: How can students get more information?

A: Text or call me at 662-416-5251. Or they can email me at david.l.sistrunk.mil@mail.mil. interviewed by Melanie Crownover photographed by Chasity Dees

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INVITATION TUPELO | October 2015