Business Journal 20171001

BUSINESS JOURNAL BIZBUZZ.DJOURNAL.COM

FEATURE: NEWMS seeks positive change and empowerment

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FEATURE: Trove celebrating fourth anniversary this month

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FEATURE: Northeast begins free manufacturing academy

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ERAR: Sicilian roots, Middle Eastern Flair, pg. 5

Women in Business

OCTOBER 2017

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THE NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI

OCTOBER 2017

NEWMS seeks positive change and empowerment

RUBYE DEL HARDEN

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n 2004, the CREATE Foundation conducted a study that revealed that women in Mississippi, compared to other states, ranked at the bottom of almost every major indicator – health, finance, education and corporate leadership.

CREATE President Mike Clayborne promptly charged a group of seven women to work on determining strategies to help improve the situations of North Mississippi women. The group met for a year to look for ways to assist women and discovered that, because the need was so

great and so varied, whatever program was created would have to be diverse, deliberate and detailed.

After the year of study, under the umbrella of CREATE, NEWMS – New Expectations for Women in Mississippi – was formed. The name chosen was very intentional.

The women who gathered to study women’s problems realized that most women did what they did because that was what they knew and what was expected of them.

And that if the situation of women was to change, women would have to have higher expectations of and for themselves.

We get what we expect.

When people don’t expect much of us, we usually meet their expectations. When people do expect much of us, we usually meet their expectations. As Henry Ford

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said, “Whether you think you can, or you think you can’t – you’re right.”

Expectations are set in many different ways: from parents, peers, teachers, communities and cultures.

The group believed positive change and empowerment would be best served by creating ways for women to help other women see possibilities that they had not previously imagined.

The NEWMS founders realized they couldn’t be all things to all people, so they focused on areas where other organizations did not.

The initial signature leadership program of NEWMS was Success Skills.

If women were to be more successful they needed to be equipped with new skills.

The program emphasized that we shouldn’t define success for each other, but

that we should equip each participant with the skills they needed to help themselves be more successful in whatever field they chose.

Another program established early on was Women of Distinction whereby women who had been highly successful were recognized, honored and positioned as role models to demonstrate the high levels of success possible for Mississippi women.

Fairy Godmothers was established to help women in distress. It was recognized that sometimes, even when one is trying desperately to better herself, a situation can occur where she needs a hand up. One request granted was helping a single Mother get two tires fixed when her car situation would have prevented her being able to keep her job. The

financial gift is always paid for the service and not to the person. The Fairy Godmothers sponsor a Chocolate Festival the weekend before Valentine’s Day to raise money for this fund.

Plus, individual NEWMS members can increase their membership dues to become Fairy Godmothers and thus support the program financially.

Another powerful program is the Business Network where people have the opportunity to get together, exchange ideas and support and encourage one another in their quests for success.

This year, for the first time, NEWMS held a Lip Sync Battle as a fun fundraiser to help pay for administrative support and also to increase the funds in the endowment fund. NEWMS also sponsors an annual conference

designed to encourage, empower and inspire Mississippi women.

One misperception of NEWMS is that only women are members. Not so: Membership is open to any and all who are interested in encouraging, supporting and uplifting women.

NEWMS members often say, “If you have a daughter, wife or mother, you are a great candidate for NEWMS membership.”

It is important to not just know but to understand that when we raise the standing of women in our communities, it not only helps the women themselves, but it helps us all.

RUBYE DEL HARDEN is a founding member of NEWMS and is currently serving as chairman. She can be reached at rubyedel@gmail.com.

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BUSINESS JOURNAL

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Compton both a music aficionado and purveyor

BY W. DEREK RUSSELL BUSINESS JOURNAL

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ALTILLO – Entertaining was always in Michaela Compton’s blood, making it an easy choice for her profession.

Growing up in Las Vegas, music was everywhere she looked, and it stuck with her from a younger days.

“I lived there for 30 years and was surrounded by it,” Compton said. “All genres in the world of entertainment were present. I was drawn to it.”

With piano and vocal lessons from a young age, Compton felt the need for more as she watched her friends prepare for gigs.

“I thought, “Where do I sign up?’” she said. “I started singing professionally in downtown Las Vegas when I was 17.”

Influenced by artists ranging from Led Zeppelin, Prince, Pink Floyd and Janis Joplin, Compton would spend her time in front of her record player, spinning vinyl for hours while attempting to expand her vocal range and sing with energy.

Fast-forward to today and Compton now resides in Saltillo with a home studio where she records “Local Licks,” a weekly radio show on z98.5 FM that features interviews with other songwriters like herself.

“Three years ago is when I started it on Unity TV,” she said. “It was called ‘Devotion Song Cafe.’ It got too big and there were so many genres that were non-Christian (music) that I couldn’t put on the show. I was introduced to the manager at Mississippi Radio Group and presented the concept to them. I didn’t care when it aired or on what station, I just wanted to keep the show alive for local songwriters and to be able to interview all genres of music. They loved the idea so they gave me an hour time slot. I came out of that meeting with a far better situation than I had ever hoped for.”

Now, the radio show is approaching its two year anniversary on the station, and Compton is expanding it further

with “Local Licks Live” at the Blue Canoe in December.

“My original intent was to meet other songwriters and I’m still doing that,” she said. “It feeds my own interests and it feeds my own desire to learn more about songwriting and to be a better songwriter myself. I’m very blessed to have that home studio because I’m able to interview in a very intimate environment. It’s set up with red couches and a stone fireplace and the songwriters can relax and get acclimated to the room so we can have a chilled out conversation.”

When she’s not busy with her work interviewing other entertainers or setting up songwriting nights for performers, she is, at heart, a musician herself – and that’s how she likes to spend her free time. She’s continued to perform both rock and comptemporary-Christian music in the U.S. and overseas, including the Philippines.

“Some of my favorite Christian music influences are Jesus Culture, Third Day, Needtobreathe, Bethel, Red, Skillet and Johnny Lang,” she said. “Several of these artists cross over Christian and secular boundaries, which I’m a big fan of.”

Compton is quite the crossover herself, having opened for acts like Carman as well as performing in the band Gethsemane. She now performs in Of Warriors and Poets.

But her real love is local musicians.

“The word ‘local’ is deceiving, really,” she said. “When we say local it really just means an independent songwriter or musician, not someone that is signed with a huge mainstream contract. A local musician is better defined as an independent artist that puts their music out there on their own time and money in an effort to produce their songs and tour. It doesn’t really matter what your address is.”

You can hear Compton interview “local” songwriters each Sunday on z98.5 FM at 2 p.m. derek.russell@journalinc.com Twitter: @wderekrussell

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Michaela Compton records “Local Licks,” a weekly radio show on Z98.5 FM from her home stuido.

To All The Women Who Contribute To The Success Of Our Business!

Metals and Distribution Division 222 Laney Rd. • Shannon, MS

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BUSINESS JOURNAL

OCTOBER 2017

OCTOBER 2017

Curry puts early childhood education degree to work

“I’m a big kid,” Curry said.

“I get on the floor and crawl around with them.”

UPELO – Angenett Curry Interacting with kids is part knows firsthand the kind of the fun, but Curry’s also of work and worry parfocused on parents’ needs. enting requires.

“I go in and I talk to parents “I don’t have any babies and I ask questions to see what now, but I’m kind of seasoned they need assistance with. in this field,” the 44-year-old Once you start asking quesmother of five said. “I’ve had tions, they feel comfortable times when I needed assiswith you,” she said. “It might tance, when I needed a place take a while before they say, like this.”

‘Why I’m really here is…,’ and She was referring to the Early they might not know what Childhood Academy in Room they need. That’s what we help 126 of Itawamba Communithem find out.” ty College’s Student Services The academy loans out toys, Building in Tupelo. games, activities, DVDs and The academy serves parbooks designed to help chilents and daycare workers in a dren develop age-appropriate five-county region. The goal skills. is to help prepare Mississippi “They get to check out items children for kindergarten. just like at a library,” Curry “We have resources they can said. “They have 10 working use with their kids,” Curry said, days to return the items.” “and if we can’t help them, we Curry’s official title is rerefer them to other agencies source and referral associate, where they can get the help and part of her job is letting they need.” parents know where children The ICC office is open to all can be tested for hearing and parents with young children vision problems, dyslexia and who live in Lee, Itawamba, developmental disorders, such Pontotoc, Monroe and Chicka- as autism. saw counties. Daycares in those “If the baby isn’t reaching same counties are eligible if the proper benchmarks, we can they receive childcare assisidentify possible problems,” tance from the Mississippi Curry said.

Department of Human SerResources also are available vices. (People who live in other to daycares in the Mississippi counties may visit www.mccb.

Department of Human Services edu/childhood/chdefault.aspx system, and the academy proto find an office that serves vides regular staff development them.) courses.

“Since we opened in March, The academy’s lending we’ve been trying to get the library includes books on how word out,” Curry said. “We’re to develop curriculums, so daygetting more of the homescare directors and teachers can chool parents right now.” plan their students’ learning Appointments aren’t necesfrom day to day. sary, and the academy has a “We help them to be more play area, so children can enefficient, so we can get more tertain themselves while Curry children ready for kindergartalks with parents. ten,” Curry said.

BY M. SCOTT MORRIS BUSINESS JOURNAL

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As a resource and referral associate at the Early Childhood Academy, Angenett Curry provides parents and daycare workers with tools to help young children develop age-appropriate skills.

Most materials have to be returned so others may use them, but the academy also provides free printing and laminating services, and construction pa-

‘I prayed for a position like this. I told them it was created for me. I was a single parent, so I can help other single parents who come in. I can tell them my story and help direct them.’

Angenett Curry,

resource and referral associate at the Early Childhood Academy

per is usually available.

“To use our resources, they can come in any time we’re open,” Curry said.

The ICC office is open 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and professional development sessions are available in the evenings and on Saturdays.

Curry started working at ICC in the financial aid department, and she decided to go back to school to get her associate’s degree in early childhood development from ICC. The job at the academy came available just in time for Curry to use her new skills.

“I prayed for a position like this. I told them it was created for me,” she said. “I was a single parent, so I can help other single parents who come in. I can tell them my story and help direct them.”

Her training also comes in handy at home. Her kids are grown, but they sometimes

have questions about their kids. Curry has the wisdom of practical experience combined with her education.

“If they say, ‘Should she be picking up things by this age?’ I can say, ‘Yes,’ ‘No’ or ‘Not necessarily,’” she said. “I’m kind of like a guide.”

Curry plans to get her bachelor’s degree from the University of Southern Mississippi. She’s applying to the school’s online program, so she can keep working at the academy and her clients can benefit from whatever she learns during her studies.

“I’ve always wanted to be a beacon, so somebody could see my light and it would guide them,” Curry said. “With this position, it’s a start. I can meet with people and I can help them.” scott.morris@journalinc.com Twitter: @mscottmorris

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BUSINESS JOURNAL

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BY DENNIS SEID

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Erar has Sicilian roots, Middle Eastern flair

BUSINESS JOURNAL

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UPELO – Ruth Erar admits she has a biting sense of humor, but it seems customers have learned to appreciate it over the years.

“A kid came in the other day and didn’t know a song that was playing by Bob Dylan,” she said.

“I told him he wasn’t raised right and to get out. He started to leave, and I told him I was kidding. But now he had to sit there and listen to it and like it.”

Remember the Soup Nazi from Seinfeld? She’s been jokingly called that – all in good fun, of course.

“My regulars will tell you I can give it right back to them; I have my own little thing going,” she said with a laugh. “I want people to have a good time, I ask a lot of questions. I make fun of myself.

And I’ll make fun of you.”

For example, asking for mayo on a gyro is a no-no. And ketchup? She doesn’t have any in the restaurant.

Her banter with customers at Amsterdam Deli on McCullough Boulevard is as endearing as the homemade hummus with warm pita bread served there.

Of Sicilian descent and growing up in Cleveland, Ohio, Erar moved to Northeast Mississippi with her husband, Monther, in 2001.

Monther owns a wholesale distribution business in Tupelo, as well as a handful of convenience stories in the area. They opened Stroffolino’s Wine & Spirits in April 2014, but didn’t originally intend to open Amsterdam Deli seven months later. It just sort of happened.

“We intended to open a tobacco and beer store next door to Stroffolino’s,” she said. “One night, my husband and I were

Ruth Erar, originally planned to open a tobacco and beer store. talking, and we had this extra pizza machine. I can make pizzas, I said. There was really no food being offered nearby except for the Sonic across the street.”

Monther remembered that they also owned a gyro machine.

“Two bottles of wine later, the tobacco was forgotten, and I started to work on a menu,” Ruth said.

The building on McCullough Boulevard already had “Tobacco & Beer” on the facade, and the Erars had to change the sign.

Monther actually had longheld dreams to open a restaurant on a larger scale. And he can cook quite well. He was featured as a “Cook of the Week” by the Daily Journal in 2011, which allowed him to show off some of his traditional Middle Eastern dishes.

“He always wanted a bar as well, so now we have sort of the best of both worlds,” Ruth said.

Amsterdam Deli has a large cooler stocked with craft beers.

The menu at Amsterdam has Middle Eastern dishes like gyros,

hummus and shawarma, but pizza, wings and sandwiches also are offered.

Ruth wasn’t sure if her eclectic menu would work out at first.

“Things have gone actually better than expected,” she said.

“I wasn’t sure if Tupelo was ready ... well, it’s a pretty diverse menu, but I wasn’t sure of it was ready for our goofy kind of food.”

The restaurant has “The Clevelander” sandwich, made with sliced turkey on a baked sub roll toasted and topped with provolone, lettuce, tomato, onion and homemade pesto sauce.

The “New York State of Mind” is corned beef and pastrami piled on toasted marble rye with provolone. The “Stroffolino Sub” is ham, salami and bologna on a baked sub roll, toasted and topped with cheddar lettuce tomatoes and onions. There’s a Chicago-style hot dog available, too.

“Being from Cleveland I’m not a fan of anything Chicago, but it does really well, and I make it with gritted teeth,” Ruth said with

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a chuckle.

Amsterdam also has specialty pizzas like gyro pizza and chicken shawarma pizza.

“It’s a combination of the Middle East, New York, Cleveland Chicago... we try to put a lot of what we love to eat on the menu,” Ruth said. “Most of the recipes involve recipes we cook at home.”

THEIR OWN BOSSES

The Erars moved to Tupelo because they wanted to own their own business and to have their own land.

The Erars were passin assing through Tupelo on their way to visit New Orleans, Monther’s cousin happened to be selling a store.

He bought it, and after returning to Cleveland, where they had recently bought a home, the Erars moved to Tupelo.

“Monther never even lived in the house,” Ruth said with a laugh. “We had just closed on it, and he moved right away to

Tupelo. I had just moved into the house, and then I had to move back out.”

Ruth admits there was a bit of a culture shock moving from Cleveland to Northeast Mississippi.

“I thought he had lost his mind at first,” she said. “I drove down by myself from Cleveland, I had just had my wisdom teeth taken out, and I pull into the parking lot and people were coming to the store in cars, trucks, horses, ATVs... everybody was so nice, and I thought, ‘yes I can make it here.’”

What was going to be a twoyear stay has turned into 16 years.

“This was going to be our next step to something bigger,” Ruth said. “But our children were born here – our daughter is at Tupelo High and our so is at the middle school. It’s home now.”

Ruth runs Amsterdam Deli as well as Stroffolino’s, but said she is now devoting more time to the Amsterdam to help grow the business.

And she’s learned much about running a business over the years.

“I have degree in criminal justice, and that really didn’t help me a lot” she said. “But I also learned a lot from Monther, and I’m a good multi-tasker. And we back each other up when we need to. And people here are really patient and understanding.

If I’m late, people understand. I might have been dropping a kid off somewhere. People can relate ... the customers are really nice and really loyal.”

As for the “Amsterdam” name, it just sort of happened, too.

“My son said you can find anything in Amsterdam. It was going to be a tobacco and beer store and now it’s a deli. So the name stuck,” Ruth said. dennis.seid@journalinc.com Twitter: @dennisseid

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BUSINESS JOURNAL

OCTOBER 2017

Mart builds career in construction

OCTOBER 2017

went bankrupt. But the second general contractor brought Mart back and gave her more or the past 30 years, Leslie to do.

Mart has built a challeng“He saw my education and ing, rewarding career in abilities, and he started handconstruction. ing off responsibilities,” Mart “What I do in construction said. makes a difference in people’s When that job ended, she lives,” Mart said. “I love what I stepped connected with a gendo.” eral contractor with projects As a senior project manager across the region. She started and estimator for McCarty King as an estimator and moved up Construction in Tupelo, Mart as project engineer and safety pulls from both sides of her coordinator. When she was brain. She uses her analytical assigned to a large, long term and accounting skill sets to project in Killeen, Texas, she develop timelines and budgets. and Jacob moved to the job.

She uses her creative tools to “As the jobs moved, we handle interior design and moved,” she said. address clients’ needs.

Construction is non-tradiADAM ROBISON | BUY AT PHOTOS.DJOURNAL.COM “I take a project from conSenior project manager and estimator Leslie Mart has worked with McCarty King Construction tional field for women. Early for nearly 25 years. ception to turn key,” as part of on, there were some bumpy a team, Mart said. moments, like when she had to She has worked with McCarty about improving the lives of wheelchair to roll around and Junior College had a program send a crew member home for King for nearly 25 years and the people who use them,” Mart see what they elders would see, to help displaced homemakers direct insubordination. diversity of projects in health said. what they would touch,” Mart and single parents upgrade “Once I proved my abilities care, commercial and high end On a recent residential projsaid. their skills and enter the workand my competence, I was residential construction has ect, Mart had to put her probOne of her all-time favorforce. more accepted,” Mart said. kept her on her toes. lem-solving skills to use to find ite projects was the colorful She started in business adEventually, her journey “Every project is different,” more storage space. The client HealthWorks! children’s health ministration, but realized she brought her back to Tupelo and Mart said. she was working with frequent- education center in Tupelo. needed something with a little Northeast Mississippi when she Construction requires team ly hosts parties and has several “We took a dilapidated more creativity, so she picked joined what is now McCarty work and flexibility to address extra tables and chairs that building and revitalized it,” up drafting and design.

King Construction in 1993. the challenges that come with needed a home of their own. A Mart said. “We created a really “I ended up with a double the territory, Mart said. few small changes to the plans unique facility that is helping major in civil engineering and “I rely on the expertise of created a special closet so the so many people.” drafting and design with minor FUTURE FOCUS field personnel and the supertables and chairs can be tucked in business administration,” Construction is a great field intendent, but I’m not opposed out of the way, but are still easy BUILDING A CAREER Mart said, ending up with two for young men and women to going out and lending a to get to when they are needed, Mart, who grew up in Florida, associates degrees. “It was the with lots of opportunities. hand,” Mart said. “I’m not Mart said. acquired an appreciation for perfect fit combining the ana“It’s a fabulous way to incorafraid to get my hands dirty.”

“You can find the little gifts,” power tools and construction lytical, accounting background porate your creative side and The goal is to bring the best Mart said. basics from her family. Her with the creative side.” your analytical side,” Mart said. value for the clients to have Sometimes Mart has needed father was in construction, While she was still in school, In addition to people like their vision come to fruition, to get creative to understand and her stepfather’s family she got her first job as the site Mart, who manage the conMart said. In addition to the her clients’ perspective. When owned ceiling fan stores. But secretary for a water treatment struction process, there’s a technical aspects of the job, McCarty was designing and she didn’t plan on a career in plant project in Peppertown. great demand for trained carMart works to channel the constructing the Green Houses construction.

“It was very serendipitous,” penters, electricians, plumbers clients needs and wants into a at Traceway Retirement ComMart had friends that moved Mart said. “Things came toand masons. project, often getting to know munity, which were the first of Northeast Mississippi. She folgether in the right place in the “We need good quality craftsthem well. their kind in the nation, Mart lowed them, looking for a good right time.” people,” Mart said.

“Construction is not just changed her point of view. place to raise her son Jacob, The project was challenging about building buildings, it’s “I literally put myself in a now 31. At the time, Itawamba and the first general contractor michaela.morris@journalinc.com

BY MICHAELA GIBSON MORRIS BUSINESS JOURNAL

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BUSINESS JOURNAL

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DOSSETT BIG 4 WOMEN AT WORK

L to R: Shawn Sheffield, Business Office Manager; Marie Smith, Title Clerk; Ashley Hopson, Receptionist; Stephanie Maclin, Account Receivables; Gail Reeves, Warranty/Cashier; Carolyn Thompson, Service Advisor

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OCTOBER 2017

OCTOBER 2017

The Lady in Blue: Capt. Anita Mitchell

BY WILLIAM MOORE BUSINESS JOURNAL

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UKA– It is very unusual to find a black woman wearing a police uniform in a small department in the South – unless you are in Iuka.

Not only has Anita Mitchell been wearing a badge in the Tishomingo County seat for 23 years, she has been a captain for the last 16 and is the department’s second in command during the day, reporting only to Police Chief Randy Stringer.

Since joining the department in 1994 as the only female officer, she steadily worked her way up the ranks. But Mitchell is not about to rest on her laurels. Being a small department, there is always something to keep the officers busy, and that includes patrolling the town of 3,000.

“I enjoy helping people and working for the public,” Mitchell said. “I still enjoy my job. I still go out on patrol every day. Since Iuka is a small town, I know most of the people and that helps out.”

When she started out nearly a quarter century ago, not only was Mitchell the first black female officer at the Iuka Police Department, for quite some time, she was the only female officer in Tishomingo County.

“Whenever the (Tishomingo County Sheriff’s Office) arrested a female, I had to go to the jail to search them. It was the same way with the (Mississippi Department of Transportation weigh station on U.S. Highway 72). If they stopped a female trucker at the scales, they called me. I got called out day and night, even on my days off until the county hired a female.”

While police work turned

PD, she worked nights and was paired with then officer Stringer, who later moved up to assistant chief. Following the retirement of Chief Bates, Stringer won a special election in 2000 to become police chief.

“We started off as partners,” Mitchell said. “We were partners on nights for five years and you couldn’t ask for a better partner.”

Along the way, she also worked alongside MDOT officer John Daugherty, who was elected Tishomingo County Sheriff in 2015.

“We worked together for years on weekends when I was with MDOT,” Daugherty said.

“She’s a very good officer. She’s always got your back.

“She’s lot of fun but can be ADAM ROBISON | BUY AT PHOTOS.DJOURNAL.COM Anita Mitchell joined the Iuka Police Department in 1994 and has steadily worked her way up the serious when she needs to be. ranks.

She gets along with everyone.

I would love to steal her (away Consolidated Aluminum plant from Iuka PD).” going to be the first female ofin Iuka. Then she fell victim to Mitchell doesn’t plan to leave ficer in Iuka. I had to meet the downsizing. the police department any time challenge.”

“My grandfather was on the soon. She only has two years While she was the only board at the hospital,” Mitchell female officer, she was just before she qualifies for state said. “I had been laid off and he one of the guys in the nineretirement but the 57-year-old asked me if I had ever thought plans on sticking around. She man department. Mitchell still about law enforcement since patrolled the 10 square miles of still loves her job. the city had an opening. I had She is a positive role model Iuka on her shift. In Iuka, two never given it any thought. officers regularly patrol the city. for both women and minori“I decided to put in an appli- When there is a call, policy reties. When she goes to career cation and was hired by Chief quires both officers to respond days at school, she actively Amos Bates. I was in training for safety reasons. While some encourages females and mifor a year, then I went to the male offers would go to munnorities to consider law enpolice academy in Tupelo.” dane calls alone, that was not forcement.

Capt. Anita Mitchell Going through the 10the case with Mitchell.

“People often only see Afriweek academy is physically “They were more protective,” can Americans and Hispanics on the negative side of law enand mentally demanding for Mitchell said. “They wouldn’t forcement,” Mitchell said. “To someone in their 20s. Mitchell let me go out on calls alone.” into her career, it was not her balance that out, we need more was 35 when she went to the The law enforcement comfirst choice. A 1979 graduate of Northeast Mississippi Law munity is close-knit and as she minorities, and females, in law worked her way up the ladder, Iuka High School, she played enforcement.

Enforcement Training Center Mitchell met, worked with and basketball for a year at North“If you like working for your and she was not about to let it became friends with a lot of east Community College before get the best of her. community and helping peogoing to work for Walmart.

“The academy was extremely fellow officers, both at the Iuka ple, this can be a great job.”

After years in the warehouse, hard but I never thought about PD and other agencies.

When she first started at Iuka she spent five years at the william.moore@journalinc.com quitting,” Mitchell said. “I was

‘People often only see African Americans and Hispanics on the negative side of law enforcement.

To balance that out, we need more minorities, and females, in law enforcement.’

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BUSINESS JOURNAL

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BY LESLIE CRISS

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Nelson finds fun fit in food service industry Jennifer Nelson loves working in the food service industry and finds great joy getting to know the people she serves.

BUSINESS JOURNAL

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XFORD – Her pre-kindergarten ability to read may have eventually landed Jennifer Nelson in the food service industry.

It also pushed her to put the quietus on a short teaching career.

A member of the Tupelo High School Class of ‘99, Nelson went to Mississippi State University and left with a degree in elementary education.

Her first position? Teaching 8th-grade English in Starkville.

It was, she said, a rude awakening.

“I had kids who could not read, who had no clue what a

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noun was,” she said. “I was so frustrated. I was young and naive and it was way too daunting for me. It was a rough year.”

She finished out her year as a teacher and moved on, ending up in Oxford where she worked in the office at Camp Hopewell

for about four years.

Her first foray into the business of food was at now-gone Waltz on the Square. Instantly,

the fit was fine.

She worked as a hostess most of her time at the restaurant.

“I loved it,” said the 37-yearold daughter of Lynn and Bud Nelson of Tupelo. “I was not at a desk all day; I got to meet different people every day.”

The job came as a pleasant surprise to Nelson, who’d imagined restaurant work would be stressful and difficult.

“I’d avoided restaurant jobs in college,” she said. “I thought I didn’t have the mental ability to do it, or to multitask.”

She quickly learned she was wrong.

“It’s not always easy,” she said. “But it’s not rocket science.”

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BUSINESS JOURNAL

OCTOBER 2017

OCTOBER 2017

creative outlet to share with friends, family and of course, customers who share similar tastes.

“I’ve always had a passion for antiques and interior design,” Lawrence said. “That was really the main thing. And our children are grown, so we’re empty nesters, and this is just a great business, I think.”

Lawrence said business has been “great” as word has spread about Trove, which also isn’t quite the same since it first opened.

“It’s evolved since we opened in 2013,” Lawrence said. “It takes a example, we have a bridal while to get things going, registry now, which we so it’s change some. For didn’t have but is very important.”

Trove is designed to have something for everyone. Lawrence’s idea is to set up the home much like how others would set up their homes in terms of decorating.

“I think it’s the perfect place to get a gift you’re looking for,” she said.

Rebecca Lawrence opened Trove on McCullough Boulevard in Tupelo in 2013.

Business spotlight: Trove

Gift store is celebrating its fourth anniversary this month.

of store setting,” she said.

“We have lots of things to choose from.”

UPELO – Rebecca The two-story home Lawrence opened covers more than 3,000 Trove four years square feet, and each ago in a century-old room has a theme. home on McCullough There’s a room for boys, a Boulevard that was the room for girls, a room for perfect setting for a gift the kitchen, a room for store. the master bedroom, etc.

“We cover everything Everything in the store from home decor, baby has been hand-selected gifts, linens, pajamas,

by Lawrence, who has housewares, bridal reglong had an eye for fine istry, Amy Howard chalk design and decor. paint ... I think it’s just a Educated and trained great home for that kind as a nurse, Trove was a

BY DENNIS SEID BUSINESS JOURNAL

T

BUSINESS JOURNAL

‘I’ve always had a passion for antiques and interior design.

That was really the main thing. And our children are grown, so we’re empty nesters, and this is just a great business, I think.’

Rebecca Lawrence

LAUREN WOOD | BUY AT PHOTOS.DJOURNAL.COM

“We have things for men, for women and we cover all the spectrums.

Customers give Trove great reviews. For example, Cindi Parker-Thorton wrote on the store’s Facebook page, “Beautiful store located in a beautiful old home. Old Southern tradition gifts and unique items. Very friendly staff. You need to walk through it at least once.”

And to fill her store, Lawrence looks for the unusual and unique things that customers won’t typically see.

“I go to several different markets, and I love picking for antiques and unusual items that I find on my travels,” she said.

“I’m always looking.”

A hot-selling item currently is Hot Skwash, which produces a line of silk velvet pumpkins.

“I love all the different colors and the natural element with a little gold on there,” Lawrence said.

|

IF YOU GO

|

ADDRESS: 1725 McCullough Blvd., Tupelo HOURS: Tuesday-Friday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m, Saturday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Close Sunday and Monday PHONE: (662) 269-3197 WEBSITE: trovetupelo.com FACEBOOK: Trove Tupelo “It’s been a great seller for us.”

Refillable candles that don’t burn down also are popular.

Trove is Lawrence’s first business, and she said it’s been a learning experience.

“We have a great team, a great staff and we all work together,” she said.

“I think we’re getting it all worked out, understanding what the customer wants and providing for them.” dennis.seid@journalinc.com Twitter: @dennisseid

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10

BUSINESS JOURNAL

Women in Real Estate 2017

Carol Kloac

Libby Parker 662-401-7989

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Receptionist

Kim Harper

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Closing Coordinator

Pam Norris

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Lisa Bradley

Denise Timbes

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Lola Knight

Listing & PR Coordinator

662-665-1492

Gena Nolan

Managing Broker

11

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OCTOBER 2017

BUSINESS JOURNAL

Women in Real Estate 2017

OCTOBER 2017

Blair Finley

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12

Bea Luckett

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How Do I Choose the Right Real Estate Agent?

Finding the right agent takes balancing credentials and chemistry. You want to choose someone you like—after all, you might spend the next six months working together. But your agent also needs to be able to safeguard your financial interests.

“You want somebody trustworthy who you can rely on,” says Ryan Fitzpatrick, director of sales for CORE, a boutique real estate agency in New York. A good agent, he says, will listen carefully

to your priorities and won’t waste time on properties that don’t fit the bill.

ciation of Realtors and agree to abide by NAR’s stringent code of ethics.

Don’t just call the first agent whose lawn sign you see. Ask friends and family members for references (and check them!). Interview at least three agents to find the one with the experience, skill and personality that matches your needs.

Real estate is a local game, and to win you need someone who plays in the areas where you’re looking to buy. Not only will they be up on market trends, they’ll know about local schools, commute times, and under-the-radar red flags, like the solid-waste transfer station that’s been proposed for the neighborhood.

Most experts recommend five or more years experience—which is not to say that someone with less can’t do a good job. Sometimes less experience means a smaller client base, which translates into more attention for you. Make sure the agent is licensed by the state and does the job full-time; about half of all agents are designated Realtors, which means they belong to the National Asso-

Inquire about what’s currently on the market in your price range; they should be able to rattle off a few properties. And ask for a list of houses they’ve handled in your target neighborhood that includes not just what the house sold for, but also the price at which it was originally listed. ©Time Inc. All rights reserved

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BUSINESS JOURNAL

OCTOBER 2017

Nelson

history of the restaurant.

My first night as a server, FROM 9 I knew I had this.”

There were other jobs In learning about the in other Oxford eateries food, Nelson said she’s before Nelson landed at tried everything, includCity Grocery, where she’s ing fried pig ears and worked the past four bone marrow. But she years. offers a resounding no to Like others at City oysters and mushrooms.

Grocery, Nelson started She appreciates when at the bottom and worked people ask about the up. She was a server and food. bused tables during the “When they ask me day for a year before ‘What’s good here?’ I tell becoming an evening them everything is good,” server. she said. “But when they That’s something she ask specifically about an appreciates about the item on the menu, I try restaurant. to enthusiastically make “You grow as a server,” a suggestion. Nine times she said with confidence. out of 10, they’ll say it’s “It helped me do the best the best thing they’ve I can do. I’ve learned ever eaten. more here about food, “Of course, there was wine, cocktails – from the time I recommended top to bottom, and the an appetizer that I find

delicious. They ordered it and when I checked on the table, they told me they hated it.”

Nelson has her favorites – tables and people.

She loves it when people come in and say it’s their first time in Oxford, or their first time in the South.

It’s those times Nelson turns into a one-woman Chamber of Commerce for Oxford and her home state.

“I’ll offer them all kinds of ideas for things to do for the rest of their stay,” she said. “I love those tables.”

She’s had dinner guests from Australia, Scotland and lots from England.

There’ve also been a few encounters with famous folk – like comedian Lew-

is Black.

“I made him laugh out loud. I made some sarcastic remark about the weather and he laughed,” Nelson said. “It was raining and the power was out, so it was dark and he couldn’t see me blush.”

And, of course, actor Morgan Freeman frequents the place.

“I’ve never waited on him, but we sang ‘Happy Birthday’ to him two months ago,” she said.

“And I was so surprised that his voice is not as God-like in person.”

She’s waited on Olivia Manning, “but not the boys,” and several sports announcers, like Verne Lundquist.

“I was going through all our specials at a brisk pace, and he said, ‘Only

OCTOBER MONTH 2017

an Ole Miss graduate could do something like that,’” she said. “I told him I graduated from State. For a brief moment, I put him in his place.”

Then there are her regulars, like a group of men who eat at the same table every week. “I ring in their drink orders when I see them come through the door.”

For the past five years, Nelson has worked a second job she also loves – hosting Monday Night Trivia at the Blind Pig. When she’s not on her feet at City Grocery or testing folks’ knowledge of all things trivial, Nelson enjoys hanging out with her three cats: Stella, Max and Charles Wallace, named after a character

in “A Wrinkle in Time,” her favorite book of all time.

And she’s still reading.

After nearly a decade in food service, Nelson’s “server stress dreams” don’t come nearly as often.

“In the dream I’m always barefoot, the entire restaurant is full and I just leave for an unknown period of time,” she said, laughing. “I wake up in a cold sweat.”

She’s quite happy with her life’s work and has no plans to change her career path in the near future.

“I enjoy it so much, what I’m doing. I really just like to make sure people are happy.” leslie.criss@journalinc.com

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14

TY ROBINSON

A

t a Boy Scout event a few years ago, I was asked by a friend, “How are things at the Journal?”I know I had a puzzled look on my face because at that time I was not writing a monthly article. I answered, “OK, but I don’t work for the Journal.”

He then asked me where I worked, and when I told him, he responded, “I’ve been looking for a company like yours.” I knew he

BUSINESS JOURNAL

Be an influencer for marketing

was a CPA, and I asked how I could be of assistance to his accounting firm. He smiled and said, “I am a CPA, but I don’t work for an accounting firm. I manage another company.”

That was an important lesson to me to let others know what I do.

I am a representative of my company regardless of where I am, and yet someone I know found out that he didn’t know me as well as I thought nor did I know him. It was a lesson in learning to listen to others, asking pertinent questions and communicating better myself.

The trouble with trying to explain marketing is

that it is a service and therefore invisible and intangible. It’s rewarding to hear, “I really enjoyed your ad,” but the reader or viewer may not have a clue about the amount of time and planning that went into the implementation of the ad campaign. Nor should they. The purpose is to communicate a product or service, not to discuss the creative process that came before the production of it.

When a marketing firm presents product samples – like a newspaper ad, a TV commercial, a website, a radio commercial – it’s showing the “how we do it” of marketing, but it is not show-

ing the “what we do” of marketing. A case study would be more effective with its explanation, but case studies only appeal to those who are interested in hiring a marketing firm. Trust me, they’re not bedtime reading.

When I’m asked what I do, I have a short reply prepared to do my best to explain what marketing is. I encourage others to do the same for their businesses. Networking opportunities are all round us. We can all help each other. I get asked questions that are not directly related to my business, but I want to help the person get connected with someone who can assist them. That makes

me an influencer for their businesses, and when they refer to me, they are an influencer for my business.

I attended a conference in New Mexico. There I met an attendee from Mount Gambier, South Australia, which is near Adelaide. He told me of Blue Lake – how pure the water was and how incredibly blue it is during the spring, summer and autumn months. I told him of Tupelo and the attractions we have. Later in the week, we were on a trip with a group to a museum, and our van driver stopped the car. He saw a buffalo standing in the field. My friend told the passengers, “That’s

15

nothing for Ty; there’s a whole herd of buffalo next to the airport in Tupelo at the buffalo park.”

With our conversations, we had turned each other into ambassadors for our respective towns. We were influencers for each other’s towns.

In addition to letting folks know what you do, it is also important to have good relationships with friends who can be influencers for your business. And, be sure to return the favor.

TY ROBINSON is president and COO of Robinson and Associates, a Tupelo-based marketing, advertising and public relations agency.

#1 in Mississippi

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OCTOBER 2017

BUSINES

S

CALENDAR OCTOBER

9: Starting a Business – First Steps, Holly Springs, 1 p.m.2:30 p.m Topic: Start-up Assistance. Are you interested in starting your own business, but don’t know where to begin?

This seminar outlines the basic steps to start a business. Topics include: regulations such as licenses and permits; legal forms of business ownership; basic marketing concepts to help analyze the revenue potential; lending terminology; outline for a business plan and other resources to assist in starting a business. To register call 1-800-725-7232.

UMSBDC, Marshall County

Library.

10: How to Develop a Business Plan, Tupelo, 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Topic: Business Basics. This seminar is designed to assist in preparing a business plan. The parts of the business plan are explained, i.e., industry research, description of company products and services, identifying target customer groups and a marketing plan. Financial components discussed are startup costs and preparation of a projected cash flow statement. To register, call 1-800-725-7232. UMSBDC Business Assistance Center, Renasant Center for IDEAs. 11: Business succession planning, Tupelo, 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. Do you want your business to survive you? The challenges and opportunities for the closely held business are discussed. Location: CDF boardroom. Breakfast will be served.

11: Starting a Business – First Steps, Oxford, 1p.m to 2:30 p.m. Topic: Start-up

Assistance. To register, call 1-800-725-7232. Location: UMSBDC 12: NEWMS (New Expectations for Women in Mississippi) Membership Mixer, Tupelo, 5:30 p.m. Location: Bailey Diane 1695 N. Coley Rd. RSVP to chenning@bcsarena.com or call/text (662) 871-3391 12: Starting a Business – First Steps, Starkville, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Topic: Start-up Assistance. Location: MSU MSBDC, MSU Business Incubator, Thad Cochran Research, Technology & Economic Development Park 12: Starting a Business – First Steps, Pontotoc, 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Topic: Start-up Assistance. To register call 1-800-725-7232. Location: UMSBDC, Pontotoc County Library 17: Starting a Business – First Steps, Tupelo, 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Topic: Start-up Assistance. To register, call 1-800-725-7232. Location: Renasant Center for IDEAs.

18: How to Develop a Business Plan, Oxford, 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Topic: Business Basics. This seminar is designed to assist in preparing a business plan. The parts of the business plan are explained, i. e., industry research, description of company products and services, identifying target customer groups and a marketing plan. Financial components discussed are start-up costs and preparation of a projected cash flow statement.

To register, call 1-800-7257232. Location: UMSBDC 19: How to Develop a Business Plan, Ripley, 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Topic: Business Basics. To register, call 1-800725-7232. Location: UMSBDC, Northeast Regional Library \ 19: How to Develop a Business Plan, Starkville, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Topic: Business Basics.

To register, call 1-800-7257232.Location: MSU MSBDC, MSU Business Incubator.

23: How to Develop a Business Plan, Holly Springs,

OCTOBER 2017

1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Topic: Business Basics. To register, call 1-800-725-7232. Location: UMSBDC, Marshall County Library.

24: How to Develop a Business Plan, Tupelo, 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Topic: Business Basics. To register, call 1-800725-7232. Location: Renasant Center for IDEAs 25: Business Issues – Introduction To Exporting, Oxford, 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Topic: International Trade. Are you interested in getting new customers for your business, but don’t know where to begin?

This seminar outlines the basic steps to exporting your product or service. Topics include: regulations such as licenses and permits; basic marketing concepts to help analyze the revenue potential; lending terminology; outline for a business plan and other resources to assist in getting new customers for your business by exporting.

To register, call 1-800-7257232. Location: UMSBDC

26: How to Develop a Business Plan, Pontotoc , 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Topic: Business Basics. To register, call 1-800725-7232. Location: Pontotoc County Library

NOVEMBER

1: Starting a Business – First Steps, Oxford, 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Topic: Start-up Assistance. To register, call 1-800-725-7232. Location: UMSBDC 2: Starting a Business – First Steps, Starkville, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Topic: Business Basics.

Location: MSU MSBDC, MSU Business Incubator 2: Starting a Business – First Steps, Ripley, 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Topic: Start-up Assistance. To register, call 1-800-725-7232. Location: Northeast Regional Library.

7: Starting a Business – First Steps, Tupelo, 1 p.m to 2:30 p.m. Topic: Start-up Assistance. To register, call 1-800-725-7232. Location: Renasant Center for IDEAs

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17

How men and women are different, financially speaking

S

CHRIS COLE

everal years ago, Time magazine had a cover that said, “Men and Women Really are Different!” While some of their conclusions were obvious, one area that they acknowledged a real difference existed is in the area of personal finances.

More women than ever are professionals, business owners and entrepreneurs.

Even so, there are certain

differences that figure into any financial plan.

So what are some of the differences?

• Women have longer life expectancies – on average, five years longer than men. This puts a greater need on the ability to stretch retirement dollars further. Women also are more likely to require some type of long-term care that greatly increases medical expenses in retirement. Also, women could have the ultimate responsibility for disposition of the marital estate.

• Women generally earn less and have fewer savings than men. While the overall wage pap has dropped over the last several decades, women on average earn around 83 percent of what their male coworkers make. While

there are various reasons for this, the implications of this gape include lower overall savings, lower Social Security benefits and lower pension.

• Women are more likely to interrupt careers to become a caregiver for either children or elderly family members. This can limit the career paths available.

• Women are more likely to be living on their own.

Whether by choice, divorce or death of a spouse, they will need to take sole responsibility for protecting their income and making financial decision.

So what steps can women investors take to deal with these differences?

First and foremost, women should take control of their money. Create a budget, manage credit wisely, set

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financial goals, and once set, monitor their progress.

Women should become more knowledgeable investors. Learn investment basics such as what and how different investment vehicles work. Learn the difference between investments that provide income and those that provide growth. In our modern information society, the depth and breadth of information available is truly amazing. Books, videos, podcast are all easily accessible and most have little expense.

In expanding knowledge, women should learn how to take advantage of all retirement savings instruments available to them. Most companies today have a retirement plan as part of an employee’s benefit package. Many

provide not only an easy way for a person to save, but also match contributions that an employee makes into the retirement plan and provide for tax savings by allowing employees to make contributions on a pre-tax basics.

By also taking time to learn what investment options are available in their plan, women also can create a portfolio that will provide the balance of growth and income that is needed for long-term financial security.

One the vital areas where women should take time to educate themselves is Social Security.

Many factors go into the determination of the benefit amount, including age, employment history, income and spousal income history. One of

the best starting points to learn about Social Security is to visit www.ssa.gov and sign into the system, allowing you to access your own statement.

Finally, women should always keep their estate paperwork up to date. You can have the best plans for personal care if you have a medical issue that prevents you from speaking for yourself, but they are useless unless they are written.

While there are difference between men and women, one thing is the same: If you are not sure of your financial situation, don’t be afraid to seek experts who can assist with creating and monitoring an investment plan.

CHRIS COLE is a Chartered Wealth Advisor and vice president of Hilliard Lyons in Tupelo

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BUSINESS JOURNAL

OCTOBER 2017

OCTOBER 2017

NEMCC begins free manufacturing academy measuring and interview skills, among others. Graduates of the A partnership of Northprogram earn up to five certifieast Mississippi Community cations that employers look for College, Mississippi Silicon, when considering new hires.”

Rural Development Partners, Tishomingo County Board Appalachian Regional Comof Supervisors President Greg mission and the Tennessee Collier, “Tishomingo CounValley Authority has committed ty has been fortunate over $237,033 to a manufacturing the past decade to be able to academy at Northeast Mississippi Community College’sIuka recruit many new industries to our county, such as BMSI, Campus. Tishomingo County is providing the space, furnish- Comfort Revolution, Contract Fabricators, G&G Steel, HAGO ings, utilities and high-speed Automotive, KX Technologies, internet for the academy.

Max Home, Mississippi Silicon, The funds will be used to provide specialized job training Roll Form Group, Skyline Steel, Tiffin Motorhomes, Vanleigh and for gas cards for unemRV, Villa International, and ployed and underemployed others. In addition, we have people to attend the academy. won several significant inThe manufacturing academy dustrial expansions and are started on Sept. 10 and is free working on other projects as to applicants. we speak.

Mississippi Silicon human “Virtually all of the industries resource director Mark Ivey mentioned are seeking workers said the company will offer inwith skills. We urge our citizens ternships and apprenticeships to successful NEMCC program to take advantage of NEMCC’s manufacturing academy, make participants. a brighter future for yourself, “Our goal is to empower and help us meet the needs of people to be able to get a job our businesses and industries anywhere, not just in manufor skilled and trainable emfacturing. The skills you learn in this course are applicable to ployees.”

Specific aspects of the manuevery job,” said NEMCC workfacturing academy include the force instructor Remington Wilson. “Some of the topics we following: cover include health and safety NCRC WORKKEYS: NCRC is the procedures on the job, CPR, National Career Readiness Certificate. efficiency methods, precision BUSINESS JOURNAL

COURTESY

Northeast Mississippi Community College President Ricky Ford and Tishomingo County supervisor Brandon Grissom, center, are joined by local, state, college and federal representatives to cut the ribbon for NEMCC’s Manufacturing Academy last month.

It is an industry portable national credential developed by ACT. The assessment takes approximately four hours to complete. The results of the assessment confirms a person’s basic intellectual workplace skills and abilities such as the ability to solve problems, think critically, understand workplace documents and graphic literacy, apply math skills, and locate and analyze informa on.

MANUFACTURING ACADEMY – PART ONE: NECESSARY SKILLS/SMART START. 45-hour course covering career exploration, diversity training, teamwork and problem-solving, communication and listening skills, goal setting and time management, professional image, roles of employers and employees, financial awareness/ life skills, workplace documents, applied math,and graphic literacy.

MANUFACTURING ACADEMY – PART TWO: MANUFACTURING SKILLS. 50hour course includes the CRC exam and expands employability skills listed

in the Smart Start section. In addition, the blended learning approach provides knowledge and application in OSHA-10, Heartsaver CPR, production documents (reading ortho drawings, dimensioning and tolerancing), precision measurement (instruments, calculations, conversions, etc.) and high-performance manufacturing (lean, 5S, value stream, quality tools, SPC, quality management systems, etc.).

JOB PASS. Three-hour physical ability skills simulation comprised of several workstations that measure physical performance in a basic industry environment. Results are reported on a person’s ability to lift, walk, bend, squat, pull, stretch, assemble, solve problems, follow safety and task instructions, climb and use hand tools.

GAS CARDS. Applicants attending classes will be awarded a $25 gas card during each week of perfect attendance. Upon completion of the entire program, an additional $100

will be awarded, up to $250 total per person.

INTERVIEWS. Graduates will be guaranteed an interview at Mississippi Silicon. Hiring is at the company’s discretion based on normal hiring practices. Other companies have indicated a desire to interview those who may not be hired by Mississippi Silicon.

INTERNSHIPS. Graduates who meet minimum hiring guidelines will be encouraged to apply for the internship program. Preference is given to applicants who live in at-risk conditions.

Up to 16 individuals will be selected to par ci- pate in the program. Northeast will hold $54,000 of the grant money submitted by Rural Development Partners to reimburse Mississippi Silicon 50 percent of the apprentice’s salary.

For more information, or to sign up for this free academy, visit the website www.nemcc.formstack.com/forms/ nemcc_manufacturing_academy_ms_ silicon_project_.

We Keep Your Business Going.

• Serving Tupelo & North Mississippi Since 1988 • Local Sales, Service, Parts, Supplies & Billing • In House Lease Program

Authorized dealer for

Cindy Sappington

Talmadge Ray

Konica Minolta

and their award winning Bizhub products.

Tupelo- 662-842-9410 | Columbus 662-687-0689

Talmadge Ray, Tupelo Cindy Sappington, Tupelo Chris Carter, Columbus

jtrayco.com

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BARNES CROSSING MITSUBISHI

DB’S FLORAL DESIGNS N’ MORE

Barnes Crossing Mitsubishi celebrated the grand opening of its 2918 Hwy 145 location with a ribbon cutting. With an extensive lineup of new and used Mitsubishi models, Barnes Crossing Mitsubishi can help you find the perfect vehicle to fit your lifestyle. Contact Barnes Crossing Mitsubishi at (662) 294-CARS or visit bcmitsubishi.com for more information.

DB’s Floral Designs N’ More celebrated the grand opening of its new location at 890 Mobile St. in Saltillo. A specialty gift shop offering custom décor and floral arrangements for weddings, funerals, homes and more, DB’s will host its wellknown Christmas Open House November 4. Contact DB’s at (662) 869-3620 or on Facebook for more information.

MIKE’S BBQ HOUSE

RENAISSANCE COMMUNITY LOAN FUND

Mike’s BBQ House celebrated its grand opening at 5442 Cliff Gookin Blvd. with a ribbon cutting. Mike’s provides a down-home, family-friendly atmosphere with mouth-watering traditional southern BBQ served with a warm smile & a side of southern hospitality. Contact Mike’s BBQ House at (662) 269-3303, on Facebook or at mikesbbqhouse.com.

Renaissance Community Loan Fund celebrated the grand opening of its 431 W. Main St., Ste. 300 location. RCLFMS’s mission is to provide support through financial assistance and development services which facilitates the development of communities that provide safe, quality housing for the residents of Mississippi and creates economic opportunities that will add/retain jobs. For more information, contact (662) 687-3290 or visit rclfms.com.

TUPELO TROPHY AND GIFTS

WORLD FINANCE CORPORATION

Celebrating its relocation 810 Robert E Lee Drive, Tupelo Trophy & Gifts held a ribbon cutting. Tupelo Trophy & Gifts offers trophies, plaques, acrylic awards, rubber stamps, legend plates for any occasion as well as gifts for weddings, work, anniversary and much more. Contact Tupelo Trophy & Gifts at (662) 8442733, on Facebook or at tupelotrophyandgifts.com.

World Finance Corporation held a ribbon cutting in celebration of its grand opening at 2307 W. Main St., Ste. A in Tupelo. World Finance Corporation is committed to making the loan process quick, easy, and stress-free by looking at your broader financial picture — not just a credit score. Visit loansbyworld.com for more information or call (662) 844-4600.

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Business Directory A PA R T M E N T S

BANK

AUTOMOTIVE COMMERCIAL VEHICLES

Apartment Homes 1, 2, & 3 Bedrooms

MILITARY, LAW ENFORCEMENT, & FIREFIGHTER DISCOUNT Ask about our Military & Law Enforcement Discount

Call 662-891-5000

3260 Hwy 145 N. • Tupelo, MS 38804

Call Robin Barnett today!

662-841-8743 rbarnett@trustmark.com

Whether you’re hauling or delivering...Call

DWAYNE BLACKMON CHEVROLET for your commercial vehicle needs!

1410 SOUTH GLOSTER / TUPELO / 842-3611

B ATH R EMODELING

BANK

BANK

Bath Remodeling Shower Remodeling Tub-To-Shower Conversion Bathroom Accessories Handicap Accessible

Bank Of Okolona Okolona

P.O. Box 306 • Okolona, Mississippi 38860

(662) 447-5403

NOW WITH:

Houston Banking Center

321 W. Madison St. • Houston, Mississippi

(662) 456-3347

Bank of Mantee

Give Us One Day… We’ll Give You A Beautiful New Bathroom!

Calhoun Banking Center

54 1st Street • Mantee, Mississippi

(662) 983-3700

www.fmbms.com

www.bankofokolona.com

Rex & Diannah Coggins, Owners

Ph: (662) 365-7021

Fax: (662) 365-8902 H Y N & ARDW W L D SUPPLY, INC. A R E BA

• Electrical • Glass • Valspar Paints • Welding Supplies • Portable Carports

• Full Service • Hardware • Building Supplies • Plumbing • Hydraulic Hoses

2015 McCullough Blvd. • Tupelo, MS 38801

CHILD CARE

BUILDING SUPPLIES

BUILDING SUPPLIES

Licensed And Insured

662-350-3175

200 S. Pontotoc Rd. • Bruce, Mississippi

(662) 456-5341

FREE IN HOME ESTIMATE

www.bathfitter.com

Lumbe ville e n o o r B Company Full Line of Lumber, Hardware, Plumbing and Electrical Supplies

Robbie Parker - Owner & Director

2300 E. Chambers Dr. • Booneville • 728-0094

Booneville Hardware & Supply

6 Weeks - 12 Years After School Program Available

403 Church St. • Booneville • 728-0032

2541 McCullough Blvd. • Tupelo, MS 38801

JOURNAL PUBLISHING COMPANY

JOURNAL PUBLISHING COMPANY

JOURNAL PUBLISHING COMPANY

TERESA MCDONALD

KRYSTAL BLACK

LEIGH KNOX

"For all your hardware needs"

1187 North 4th St. • Baldwyn, MS 38824

PRINT

ONLINE

INTERACTIVE

PRINT

ONLINE

INTERACTIVE

620-9062

PRINT

ONLINE

INTERACTIVE

Multimedia/Inside Sales Consultant

Multimedia/Inside Sales Consultant

Multimedia/Inside Sales Consultant

teresa.mcdonald@journalinc.com

krystal.black@journalinc.com

leigh.knox@journalinc.com

PO Box 909 Tupelo, MS | 38802-0909 1242 South Green Street Tupelo, MS | 38804

Phone 662.678.1531 or 1.800.270.2614 ext.531 Fax 662.620.8301

PO Box 909 Tupelo, MS | 38802-0909 1242 South Green Street Tupelo, MS | 38804

Phone 662.678.1532 or 1.800.270.2614 ext.532 Fax 662.620.8301

PO Box 909 Tupelo, MS | 38802-0909 1242 South Green Street Tupelo, MS | 38804

Phone 662.678.1626 or 1.800.270.2614 ext.530 Fax 662.620.8301

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OCTOBER 2017

Business Directory C O L L I S I O N R E PA I R

COMMERCIAL CLEANING SERVICES

COMMERCIAL PLUMBING

RH PLUMBING, INC. 24 Hour Wrecker Service

Junior Burns - Cell 662-728-0524 David Denson - Cell 662-416-5591 100 W. Veterans Drive • Booneville, MS 38829

224 Starlyn Ave. New Albany, MS 38652

662-534-4448

Phone 662-728-4459 • Fax (662) 728-4150

C O O L I N G & H E AT I N G

Commercial Plumbing, Gas & Industrial Piping RICHARD HANLON (662) 447-3213

Thank you for choosing RH Plumbing. We appreciate your business

FURNITURE

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

0 % FINANCING F O R U P TO 6 0 MONTHS

589 N. Coley Rd. Tupelo, MS

APPLY ONLINE AT

WWW.MMHEATCOOL.NET

F R E E E S T I M AT E S 1255 NELLE STREET | TUPELO

www.careers.iqor.com Great Employment Opportunities

662-844-0270

www.mmheatcool.net • Scott Mattox, Owner * All financing requires an approved credit application.

903 Varsity Dr. Tupelo, MS

Mon.-Fri. 9am - 5pm

Fine Furniture, Fabrics, & Flooring INSURANCE

I N S U L AT I O N

C ONCRETE

P.O. BOX 417 Okolona, MS 38860

Hancock Insurance Agency INSURANCE AND FINANCIAL SERVICES

401 Elizabeth St. • Tupelo 662-842-7305 G IFTS

Member of the QCN Network. Saving You Money And Making You More Comfortable For Over 38 Years Residential & Commercial Insulation, Installation Blown-In Attic Insulation - Blown-in Wall Insulation - Batting www.nsul8or@att.net www.nsul8or.com

662-844-1306

3166 West Jackson, Tupelo, MS

Everything for

Fishing

Mostly New Sat. 7-11

104 St. Andrews Rd • Okolona, MS • (662)447-3711

Scott Hancock

Allen Hancock

Monthly Rates Available

662-534-2661 720 W. Bankhead St. New Albany

JOURNAL PUBLISHING COMPANY

JOURNAL PUBLISHING COMPANY

CHELSEA SPAIN

JESSICA HUNTER

PRINT

formerly Okolona Drug Co.

ATV • Life • Health Annuities • RV • Automobile Motorcycle • Home Mobile Home Medicare Supplements

ONLINE

INTERACTIVE

PRINT

ONLINE

INTERACTIVE

Multimedia/Inside Sales Consultant

Multimedia/Inside Sales Consultant

chelsea.spain@journalinc.com

jessica.hunter@journalinc.com

PO Box 909 Tupelo, MS | 38802-0909 1242 South Green Street Tupelo, MS | 38804

Phone 662.678.1533 or 1.800.270.2614 ext.533 Fax 662.620.8301

PO Box 909 Tupelo, MS | 38802-0909 1242 South Green Street Tupelo, MS | 38804

Phone 662.678.1538 or 1.800.270.2614 ext.538 Fax 662.620.8301

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Business Directory KENNELS

LOCKSMITH

PRINTING

MILLER’S SAFE & LOCK SERVICE, INC.

arber Printing, Inc.

NEW & USED SAFES

• Safes Serviced & Installed • Locks Installed • Locksets • Combinations Changed • Locks Rekeyed • Lost Keys Replaced • Master Key Systems • High Security Keys AUTO RESIDENTIAL COMMERCIAL

brddgs@gmail.com www.dalinskennel.com

PRINTING • GRAPHIC DESIGN • SIGNS BANNERS • BLACK & WHITE/COLOR COPIES

(662) 842-7720

811 A Varsity Dr. • Tupelo, MS • 662.841.1584 8am - 4:30pm • goodimpressions@barberprinting.com

1219 ⁄2 NELLE STREET • TUPELO 1

R E A L E S TAT E

R E S TA U R A N T

R E S TA U R A N T

Party Trays for all Occasions!

Thinking of Selling Your Home or Property?

We Have Six Full-Time Agents Pontotoc Ridge Realty, Ltd. Who Call MOSSY OAK PROPERTIES OFFICE Pontotoc Home. ISEACH INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATED

• Pizza Spaghetti • Salad Bar • Sandwich • Pasta Special Every Thursday

Call Us Today 662-489-2848 Roofing E TA I L R

Alternatives to Cigarettes

Ecigs, Mechanical Mods, Vapor Smokes, Tanks/Cartomizers, Ejuice, Blu, V2, Century 21 Ecigs

709 S 4th St. • Baldwyn, MS

Mon.-Thurs. 11-10 • Fri.-Sat. 11-11 • Sun. 12-10

ROOFING Technology

W

HE

E L E

R

RO

INC.

OF

E C HSNeRviceS OLOGY TTRee Achieve greater network performance with less.

ING

It's time to get more performance from your network with far less. As in less bandwidth utilization, fewer resources, and less cost.

“A Family Business Since 1946”

• Residential • Commercial • Industrial FREE Estimates LICENSED & INSURED

411 CLARK ST. ❖ TUPELO ❖ 844-4481

T R ET ERucking SERVICES

365-7059

1101 W. Main • Tupelo 842-3774

T RUCKING

CIRCADENCE R&D FACILITY

CDF BUILDING • 398 EAST MAIN ST., 2ND FLOOR • TUPELO, MS 38804 662-821-2500 • www.circadence.com

JOURNAL PUBLISHING COMPANY PRINT

ONLINE

INTERACTIVE

PHILLIP WILBURN

Multimedia/Inside Sales Consultant Trimming • Removal • Stump Grinding Hazardous Tree Removal Experts Free Estimates / Insured 24-HOUR SERVICE

phillip.wilburn@journalinc.com 3637 PEPPERTOWN ROAD FULTON, MS 38834 (662) 862-6497

PO Box 909 Tupelo, MS | 38802-0909 1242 South Green Street Tupelo, MS | 38804

Phone 662.678.1530 or 1.800.270.2614 ext.530 Fax 662.620.8301

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MONTH 2017