October 2016

Town &Gown October 2016

Fall Fashion MSU’s Steinway Initiative

George-Mary’s Boutique

Slow Cooker Suppers

The Great Miss. River Balloon Race

©2016 UMMC

With Mississippi’s only children’s hospital plus clinics statewide, we’re here for every Mississippi kid.

Children’s of Mississippi is part of the University of Mississippi Medical Center.

Learn more at mississippikids.org

In this Issue Home, Garden and Lifestyle from around Mississippi Calendar of Events

Fall Favorites

9

10 18

MSU Music Department’s AllSteinway Initiative

35 De-stress with Golden Triangle Massage Therapy

40

Home Sweet Home: Sundance Townhomes to be finished in 2017

43

Oh so sweet! Beat the heat with Frios Gourmet Pops

49

Health with Katie Zampini: Tips for the new mother

53 12 a love to last the ages: armando and ruth de la cruz celebrate 50th wedding anniversary

24 pop into style with george-mary’s pop-

4 | TOWNANDGOWNMAGAZINE.COM

up shops

30

53

Taste and Toast: Slow Cooker Suppers

60 Fall Fashion

the great mississippi river balloon race

73 Events

TOWNANDGOWNMAGAZINE .COM HOME . GARDEN . LIFE . STYLE . FOOD . HEALTH . FITNESS

Who knew that hot air balloons were so popular here in Mississippi? If you make just one trip this October make sure it’s to Natchez, Miss. for the Great Mississippi River Balloon Race.

on the cover.On. the George-Mary’s is one of the Golden Triangle’s newest

Coverboutiques. While you won’t find a store front just yet, they have pop-up shops all around the area! One of their stops in October is Starkville’s own 929!

@townandgownmag @townandgown @townandgownmag1

Follow us on Instagram to see more shots from our photo shoots, articles from our current issue, our Friday Faves and so much more!

@townandgownmag October 2016 | 5

Letter from the

Editor

It’s hard to believe that we are now in the month of October.

It seems like yesterday I was writing the letter for the January issue, and now we are only a few months away from ringing in the new year. October marks the beginning of many of my favorite things: autumn, cooler temperatures and making soups and stews. When I graduated from Mississippi State in 2012, my then-boyfriend, now husband, gave me a graduation gift of a slow cooker. Now, that might seem like the strangest gift to give a new graduate, but he knew that I wasn’t the biggest fan of cooking, but I did like home cooked meals.

So the slow cooker was the perfect gift. There’s nothing like coming home to dinner that’s ready to eat at 5:00 and with minimal clean up at the end. So in honor of fall and my own trusty slow cooker, Lisa Bynum has created five dishes that are perfect for these short autumn days and are sure to make even the most cooking adverse person seem like a perfect chef.

If you are looking for something new for your family game night, be sure to read the article on Bellwether Games. These games are sure to entertain almost anyone! If you are looking to add new pieces to your wardrobe this season, the article on George-Mary’s pop-up shops is perfect for you. There will even be a pop-up shop this month at Starkville’s 929 Coffeebar.

Many times my writers will come to me and ask if they can do an article that is meaningful to them. That’s exactly what our health writer, Katie Zampini, wanted to do for her first article back from maternity leave. If you are a new mom, you will definitely want to check out her health article on tips for new moms this month.

If you are looking for a place to visit this month, I highly recommend Natchez, Mississippi for a quick getaway. October is the month of the Great Mississippi River Balloon Race.

Seeing all of those balloons up in the air is such a whimsical experience that you will not want to miss.

Camille Watts-Carskadon 6 | TOWNANDGOWNMAGAZINE.COM

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October 2016 | 7

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October 2016 | 11

A love to last the ages: Armando and Ruth de la Cruz celebrate 50th wedding anniversary

B

ecause they’re so deeply ingrained in the Starkville community, it is easy to forget that Armando and Ruth de la Cruz came to this country long ago from the Philippines. For their golden wedding anniversary, they decided to go back to where it all began for both of them.

“We originally wanted to celebrate in the same place we got married, which is Oroquieta City,” Armando said.

“We thought it would be a great idea to go back to the same place our family, relatives and friends – many of whom participated or attended our wedding.

“Unfortunately, the college auditorium where our wedding ceremony and reception were held was lost during a huge fire in the city in 2005 that burned the entire campus of Southern Capital Colleges. During a 2014 visit to Mindanao, we looked at a hotel and a river resort in Oroquieta as a possible venue, and we, more or

By Joe Lee 12 | TOWNANDGOWNMAGAZINE.COM

less, decided to hold it at the hotel.”

A professor emeritus of biological sciences at Mississippi State University (MSU) who spent 30 years in the classroom, Armando holds a doctorate in ecology from the University of Georgia, a master’s degree in biology from American University in Washington, D.C., and an undergraduate degree in zoology from the University of the Philippines. Ruth earned degrees in education and home economics from Southern Capital Colleges and a master’s from MSU in school administration. She worked for nearly two decades at Regions Bank.

“We came to Starkville essentially for the job at Mississippi State,” Armando said. “I knew I could develop my career here because of opportunities that would arise as a consequence of its aggressive ambition (over) 40 years ago to grow as a leading research and educational institution.”

Photos submitted

October 2016 | 13

“Starkville is a small college town where we thought it would be a great idea to start a brand new life and grow a young family,” Ruth said. “Our quest for a simple, quiet and productive life was met by Starkville’s rural but progressive (and) laidback but busy character.”

After arriving in 1970, the de la Cruzes immediately put roots down. Both have been active for decades in the Starkville Lions Club, the World Neighbors Association and the First United Methodist Church Missions Committee. Armando is a Rotary International Paul Harris Fellow and a member of the Starkville Education Hall of Fame; Ruth won the 2015 AARP Andrus Award for Outstanding Community Service and has won the Modern Woodmen Hometown Hero Award.

Not surprisingly, the inspiration for where to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary struck while they were helping others.

“We have been doing personal mission work every year for almost 20 years at the small, rural barrio of Potungan in Dapitan City, which is about two hours north of Oroquieta City,” Armando said. “Our church in Starkville – First United Methodist – has been supporting churches in Mindanao, including the Potungan Evangelical Methodist Church.

“During our visit to the Potungan Mission Village

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last October, we started construction of a toilet and installation of a water tank. Over the years we have constructed a sanctuary building, a pastoral house, a preschool building, a playground and other ancillary facilities.

“We were suddenly struck by the impressive beauty of the church sanctuary and how beautiful the Mission Village site is,” Ruth said. “Almost together, we mumbled loud enough for each of us to hear, ‘Let’s hold our 50th wedding anniversary ceremony here.’

With a picturesque beach resort nearby (and) only a thirty-minute drive from the church, (we knew) there would be adequate accommodation for our out-oftown guests.”

The de la Cruzes aren’t going anywhere. Their three, grown daughters and four grandchildren all live within comfortable driving distance of Starkville and MSU. And they might not know what to do with themselves if they weren’t so busy serving others in the area.

“We retired here because this town is very special to us,” Armando said. “There are a lot of smart students and young people (and) intelligent teachers and innovative researchers, and generally happy people satisfied with the level of sophistication in the social life and entertainment that exists in Starkville.”

October 2016 | 17

MSU Music Department’s All-Steinway Initiative

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or Barry Kopetz, head of the Mississippi State University (MSU) Department of Music and conductor of the Starkville/MSU Symphony, any discussion of the best piano out there begins and ends with Steinway. He could not have been happier when MSU made a firm commitment towards attaining an All-Steinway School status through the purchase of additional models for students.

“Steinway is a worldwide-recognized superior piano, and is the choice of more than 90 percent of artists throughout the world,” said Kopetz, who has owned a Steinway for over two decades.

“It all goes back to the handmade quality of each instrument. I’ve toured the factory and seen the painstaking process; my appreciation has gone up a hundredfold.

“What makes Steinway so special is their absolute commitment to excellence and craftsmanship. Students know that any school that is committed to an All-Steinway status is serious about their commitment to music. The touch on each and every instrument is simply second to

By Joe Lee

none.”

The process began about four years ago when Dr. Rosangela Sebba asked Richard Blackbourn, dean of the College of Education (COE), for the bulk of a substantial donation that had been made to the COE (the MSU music department is housed under the COE). A total fundraising goal of $2 million was set, and once MSU gets there, it will become one of less than 200 conservatories and music departments around the world to earn the All-Steinway School status.

“Making Steinway pianos the standard in our music department will let prospective students and faculty and the rest of the world know that we are serious about quality,” said Trish Cunetto, COE director of development. “(We) intend to give our piano majors and other music students access to the best instruments in the world.

“All music majors – whether vocal, piano or instrumental – receive four semesters of piano instruction; the piano truly is the cornerstone of the degree program. In spring 2014, with the delivery of five Steinways, we made a good start toward achieving this goal.”

Photos submitted

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October 2016 | 21

“It was this initial gift (from the COE) that jumpstarted the program,” Kopetz said. “Since then we have purchased another Steinway upright, and (former provost) Dr. Jerry Gilbert purchased a seven-foot Steinway for the new classroom building on the MSU campus.”

Gifts of $250 or more toward an original Steinway are publicly recognized as participating in the All-Steinway School Initiative. Gifts of $500 are recognized as contributing donors, while gifts of $1,000 are designated as key donors. Kopetz is quick to add, though, that any donation is a crucial one.

“Most people do not realize that once you have the pianos, you must have an endowment to maintain them,” Kopetz said. “It is like purchasing any excellent product; once you purchase it, you must maintain it.

Believe me when I say it is well worth the cost. The piano I purchased over twenty years ago is worth more than the day I purchased it, and that is the beauty of investing in Steinway. They simply hold their value.”

“We hope to expand the number of pianos to over 30 in the coming years,” Cunetto said. “This will be a longterm investment in the future, and with proper care, these exquisite, hand-crafted instruments can have a life of 100 years.

“A gift to MSU is a wonderful way to help others have access to these magnificent instruments to nurture their talent. Individuals can honor or memorialize a loved one, former professor or classmate with a gift for the purchase of these prestigious instruments.”

Donate to the Steinway School Initiative today at www.music.msstate.edu/steinway and contact Cunetto at 662-325-6762 for more information.

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Pop into style with George-Mary’s pop-up shops

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lesia Lucas founded George-Mary’s multi-brand men’s, women’s and home goods online store because she wanted a family-owned store that stocked quality apparel and goods for everyday living. When contemplating the name of the store, she wanted something with a story behind it.

“George and Mary are both names of family members who have inspired the aesthetic of the store with their work ethic and mindful eye for dressing well,” she said.

“I spent many hours beneath my grandmother’s feet and sewing machine collecting sewing pins for her and admiring all of the beautiful fabrics she had collected over the years.”

Thriving in this creative atmosphere inspired Alesia’s love for fashion while the men on both sides of her family inspired the rugged yet refined idea behind the future George-Mary’s look for men.

“We believe that the best products endure the test of time,” she said, “and foster a yearning for the tried and true timeless brands and brave nouveau classic trends.”

She also believes there is value in the simplicity of life.

Therefore, once the George-Mary’s brick and mortar shop opens, the atmosphere will be a modern general store with apparel and home goods geared toward a vast range of demographics in the local community. Until then, customers enjoy the cool pop-up shops that “pop

By Richelle Putnam

up” around town in various businesses and homes. These “pop-ups” allow people to see and feel the merchandise to get a better idea about the quality, explained Alesia.

“I do about four to six pop-ups a month.”

Alesia also wanted to offer an item reflective of her Mississippi heritage, a design she could build upon that went beyond Starkville, and something that had a story behind it, “something classic to represent the GeorgeMary’s company. There’s nothing more classic than your home state.”

Though Alesia earned her bachelor’s in apparel, textiles & merchandising with a minor in fine art and business at Mississippi State University in 2007, she realized the importance of working with graphic designer interns to help her bring George-Mary’s t-shirt design to life.

“The t-shirts are screen printed in Starkville,” said Alesia. “I like supporting other local businesses.”

She focuses on a color palette that is more natural, with earthy colors and subtle textures and patterns. She also leans toward solids and plaids and muted fall colors, mostly neutrals. Primarily fabrics tend to be cotton and linen and have a soft texture with clean lines.

“Overall the company has a more masculine feel because that’s who I am and I felt like it was appropriate for Starkville, too,” said Alesia.

Many markets already focus on feminine lines and the college crowd, so George-Mary’s tries to target and

Photos by Masa Kathryn Photography

Model: Danielle Bergeron

October 2016 | 27

@MSU_LYCEUM #MSULYCEUM FB.COM/MSULYCEUMSERIES

PRESENTS

appeal to more than the college crowd. Although a live shopping experience remains the focus through Alesia’s pop-up shops, customers can shop and purchase online.

“For now, our website and pop-up-shops portray the general aesthetic of the company,” said Alesia, “but in the near future we hope to open a brick-and-mortar store to serve our customers better.”

The brick and mortar George-Mary’s will carry dainty and delicate style jewelry, lots of leather and suede accessories, including hats, with a minor focus on houseware and classic luggage.

“The men’s wear will focus on the well-dressed man, but also the man who loves outdoors.”

And, as is customary of George-Mary’s, every item will tell a story.

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October 2016 | 29

The Great MS River Balloon Race Story by Richelle Putnam Photos courtesy of Natchez CVB

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nly one sky can rival a Mississippi sunset over Ole Man River.

That sky happens every October during the Great Mississippi River Balloon Race when a multitude of hot air balloons lift off from a sprawling field behind the Rosalie antebellum home in downtown Natchez. It’s a grand sight to behold.

“The balloon race was born back in 1986 as a fundraiser for the Historic Natchez Foundation and to give people a reason to come to downtown Natchez,” said Trevor A. Brown, Deputy Director of the Natchez Historic Foundation, who took over this year as Director of the Balloon race.

“We [The Natchez Historic Foundation] are the only local preservation non-profit here in Natchez, so as you might imagine, I’m involved in a little bit of everything,” he said.

Over the past 30 years, the Great Mississippi River Balloon Race has grown and spun off into its own non-profit.

“The first year the race only had 3 or 4 balloons and a street dance. From there, we moved to the grounds of Rosalie and have been there ever since.”

Today, over 60 hot air balloons participate in the race. Added to the race are a children’s carnival with festival rides, an arts and crafts 30 | TOWNANDGOWNMAGAZINE.COM

fair, and an Octoberfest Beer Garden featuring regional craft breweries. Competition balloon flights are scored events throughout the weekend, and each depends on weather conditions. Most of them, said Trevor, involve a target where competing balloonists drop a bean bag as close to the target as possible. Points are compiled over the weekend.

“The hare and the hound is a race where one balloon takes off from a predetermined location,” said Trevor.

That balloon determines when the other balloons begin filling up to take off and race as fast as they can to the target the hare balloon has set into place. “That’s a fun one because you see 30 to 40 balloons inflating at one time and getting off the ground as quickly as possible.”

Balloonists are mainly from the southeast with many coming from the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, the largest balloon fest in the United States with over 500 participating balloons.

“We are almost piggybacking off the event a little bit because they are often coming back from Albuquerque.

We have pilots from all over the southeast and all over the country and most return year after year.”

On Friday night of the race, there will be a fireworks display, said Trevor. On Saturday, attendees can ride a

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tethered balloon up to about 30 or 40 feet and come back down. They can also relax in the enormous tent where big-screen TVs broadcast the weekend’s NCAA and NFL action.

“The live music festival has grown tremendously,” said Trevor, adding that music and balloons are the two biggest draws. Music on all three days includes local and regional acts as well as popular headliners. “Since we are the largest event in southwest Mississippi, it’s a great platform to launch some smaller and new bands.”

Natchez’s location between New Orleans and Memphis helps drive some larger acts to the event because they are either touring or in the proximity of Natchez.

One returning act, The Revivalists, is currently at #2 on the Billboard Chart for Adult Alternative music. Tab Benoit, another headliner, has a huge following. Tony Joe White performed with Elvis and Johnny Cash. The New Orleans act, Dumpstaphunk, includes one of the Neville Brothers. Ana Popavic is an incredible blues guitarist who will also be performing on the Jimi Hendrix tour, which is dominated by men and some of the best guitarists in the world.

“We are like a mini-jazz festival here in Natchez because the majority of our headliners have been on the

main stage at Jazz Fest.”

The Great Mississippi River Balloon Race has become a huge economic development booster for Natchez.

The Fest, along with the Fall Pilgrimage usually makes October the highest tax revenue month for Natchez.

Most hotels book up well in advance of the events.

But the main reason to come is that “It’s Natchez, a place that will amaze you,” said Trevor. “Our event is unique in that it’s held right in downtown Natchez. Not only do you get world-class music entertainment, but you also get to enjoy being in the heart of Natchez the entire weekend.”

The Great Mississippi River Balloon Race celebrates 31 years!

October 14-16, 2016 Location: The grounds of the historic Rosalie Antebellum Home in downtown Natchez http://www.natchezballoonrace.com/

www.bcbsms.com Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Mississippi, A Mutual Insurance Company is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. ® Registered Marks of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, an Association of Independent Blue Cross and Blue Shield Plans.

34 | TOWNANDGOWNMAGAZINE.COM

De-stressed with Golden Triangle Massage Therapy

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tress can affect your body, your thoughts and feelings, and your behavior. Symptoms of stress include headache, muscle tension or pain, chest pain, upset stomach, insomnia, anxiety, and the list goes on. Nobody knows this better than nationally certified massage therapist Jack Weimer, co-owner of Golden Triangle Massage Therapy.

“Stress magnifies when we are constantly being bombarded by the massive amounts of information available at our fingertips and never actually having downtime to process it all,” said Jack. “We never get away from stimulation. As a result of the dependence we have on the cell phone and computer, our brains are turned on all day long and even late into the night. Add to this the ever increasing demands put on us from work and home; it’s no wonder so many of the ailments and illnesses that plague us are from stress.”

He explained that your cortisol level, which is secreted by the adrenal glands, has a particular pattern that tops off after waking in the morning and gradually descends throughout the day. Stress can have a large impact on the

body’s ability to regulate this important hormone, and it can result in insomnia, weight gain, brain fog and blood sugar regulation.

“Being out of sync with the rhythm of creation wreaks havoc on every system of our bodies, especially the musculoskeletal system. And that is where Francois and I come in.“ Jack grew up in Jackson playing all kinds of sports, from basketball to golf. In 2004, he entered Mississippi State University in the professional golf management program but later switched to mechanical engineering.

That switch changed his life, but not for the better.

“The amount of studying that was required to be a successful engineering student proved to be more of an effort than I was willing and able to give, honestly. The stress accumulated so badly that I had some intense bouts of insomnia and severe anxiety. ” He was also suffering from old sports injuries and could barely move his neck due to a racquetball injury.

“I didn’t know what to do,” he said. “My mom told me to go to a massage therapist.”

He did and immediately, he realized how much

By Richelle Putnam

Photos submitted October 2016 | 35

massage helped his anxiety and his pain.

“I then realized that I might have discovered an unknown talent in massage therapy. I would try to mimic the techniques my massage therapist would use, and I found that I was able to do it pretty well.”

Jack ended up going to the Natural Healing Arts School of Massage Therapy in Tupelo, Miss. and graduated in 2009. By 2011, he was working with collegiate athletes in track, basketball and football.

However, the seasons were very hectic, and Jack was in a different hotel room virtually every few days.

“I became so stressed because of the travel and the amount of work I was doing. I needed a sub.”

That sub was Ewaldson Francois. Born in Haiti, Ewaldson moved to New Jersey with his family. After high school, he joined the Navy where he served for 14 years as a Field Medical Tech. During his enlistment, he graduated with a degree in Massage Therapy from ECPI University in Virginia and then moved to Wren, Mississippi, his wife’s hometown.

As a nationally certified massage therapist, Ewaldson specializes in Trigger Point Therapy and Sports Massage. Jack does that as well, but also focuses on Myofascial therapy, which works the different layers of tissue and incorporates movement to increase the muscle’s range of motion and to relieve pain.

In January, Jack and Ewaldson became partners and opened the Golden Triangle Massage Therapy on Highway 12 in Starkville.

“We both wanted to build a wellness center, so we are looking around Starkville for the perfect space,” said Jack. “The goal is to have a slightly downscaled version of a high-end spa with saunas, steam rooms, Jacuzzis, and multiple treatment rooms.”

But why a full-line spa?

36 | TOWNANDGOWNMAGAZINE.COM

“I believe there is a need for different therapeutic modalities in Starkville, and I believe a spa is the answer to that need. The amount of sweating that a sauna produces detoxifies your body very well,” said Jack.

“Spending at least 20 minutes in a sauna has the power to rejuvenate your mind and body completely. A sauna session and a daily Epsom salt bath are two of my top recommendations for overall health and well-being. ” The spa will also offer a male and female side, so football fans driving into Starkville for the game can enjoy the spa and be revitalized before the game. Group rates will be offered to fans, sororities and fraternities.

On October 1, Jack and Ewaldson will move their current business into Clare Mallory’s Thrive Health location on Highway 12. Once the spa opens, which may take up to a year or so, they will manage both locations.

“As a society, we have bought into the idea that it takes working seven days a week to be successful,” said Jack.

“But to what extent can we enjoy the fruit of our labor if we do not set time aside for it?”

“We have to decide to take a day off willingly!”

Golden Triangle Massage Therapy: A member of American Massage Therapy Association http://www.goldentrianglemt.org/ Visit them on Facebook!

TIPS FROM JACK: Take a hot Epsom salt bath. Mimic the massage with a tennis ball, baseball, or whatever ball is available. Hold the ball up against the wall or on the carpet, find your trigger points and press the muscle into the ball and roll it back and forth.

Cortisol - Most bodily cells have cortisol receptors. Cortisol can help control blood sugar levels, regulate metabolism, help reduce inflammation and assist with memory formulation.

Get on board with Bellwether Games

D

ennis Hoyle has always had an interest in board games and card games. Even from a young age, he knew that he wanted to make a career out of designing and making games. He grew up playing classic strategy games like Risk and Shogun, but as he got older, he began to think of concepts for his own games. He even designed his own board game while he was still in high school.

Most people think that, due to the proliferation and popularity of video games, analog games have died off. Not so, says Hoyle. The board game industry has shown growth recently, due in part to crowdfunding sites like Kickstarter. He explains, “Games take off when people share them with each other. Kickstarter is a great community for that.”

The Illinois native majored in English and Public Relations at Mississippi State, and before leaving Starkville, he received an MBA—a program he completed with the goal of starting a business and publishing games.

In 2011, Hoyle designed a working prototype for a strategy card game he called Drop Site. Drop Site won the Carta Mudni special prize for the best card game, for which he earned 1,000 copies manufactured for free.

“It was a real great feeling, to get positive feedback on something you created.”

Based on that success, he decided start Bellwether Games. His first goal was marketing and selling the 1,000 copies of Drop Site. Hoyle acknowledges that his MBA degree came into use almost immediately. He also received support from the MSU Entrepreneurship Center.

By Clint Kimberling

Photos submitted October 2016 | 37

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In 2014, Hoyle launched a campaign to fund a game called Antidote—the first game he published on his own. Hoyle met his goal, raising over $45,000 through Kickstarter to manufacture the game. Antidote is now one of their most popular games and will get even more exposure as Hoyle recently learned that Antidote would be mailed to Bento Board Game subscribers as part of their monthly subscription.

In Antidote, 2-7 players act as laboratory scientists working for a giant chemical research conglomerate.

When the lab is suddenly exposed to a deadly toxin, players must work quickly to share their research and discover the antidote before it’s too late.

Antidote is similar to Clue in that it uses deductive reasoning. Players must engage in a battle of wits to deduce the correct antidote before the deadly compound takes its lethal effect. However, as players begin to solve the puzzle, it becomes clear that maybe they shouldn’t share everything they know with others.

Eventually, all but one of a player’s cards will run out, and that one card is the one that they must “drink” and hope it’s the antidote. If this card is the true antidote, the

player is cured and lives! If not, then they die, at least until the next game starts.

At the heart of Antidote, Hoyle says, “Is the concept of telling vs. showing. How can you tell what’s true? And with your conviction in place, how do you act? People tell me, ‘This game really resembles decision-making you see in real life, that I use in my job.’ You have to make some guess as to what other players think and the ending can be a total surprise.”

This summer Hoyle decided to make Bellwether his full-time job. He’s taken on more projects, working with other game designers to manufacture games, and is currently running several Kickstarter campaigns to make new games.

At the heart of each game is discovery—one of Bellwether’s tenets for making games. Hoyle says, “Every game we produce endeavors to be new or unique or to ask you to look at the world a little differently than you have before.”

See http://bellwethergames.com for more info and to purchase games

Enjoy beautiful pictures of familiar campus scenes that bring back special memories of your time at Mississippi State. The official State calendar has become a Bulldog tradition. With pictures by MSU’s own award-winning photographers, it’s truly a one-of-a-kind treasure. Order online today at msufoundation.com or call 662-325-7000.

Share your Bulldog spirit this holiday season.

Send friends and family exclusive MSU holiday cards featuring original illustrations by MSU alumni. Purchase yours online at msufoundation.com.

MSU is an AA/EEO university.

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October 2016 | 39

Home Sweet Home: Sundance Townhouses to open in 2017

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ollege towns across the country are often plagued by a lack of accommodations for visitors. Events such as homecoming, big football and baseball games, and especially graduation weekends attract thousands of travelers. This has been a boon to real estate market in university towns.

This also presents an opportunity for homeowners to rent their homes out to campus visitors. So-called “game day rentals� are a growing phenomenon.

Soon Starkville will have another great option for those interested in owning a game day rental home.

In spring 2017, Sundance Townhouses will open its first phase, with eight modern and fashionable brand new townhouses. Eight more units are planned for the development in the second phase.

Each eight-unit development will be made up of four 2 bedroom/ 2.5 baths (1,224 square feet) and four 3 bedroom/2.5 baths (1,386 square feet). The prices

for each unit are very affordable and in-line other properties in the area with prices starting at 244,000.

The townhouses offer unique two-story floor plans that will feature 10-foot ceilings on the first floor as well as stainless appliances and granite countertops in the kitchen. Some units will have balconies located off master bedroom will that overlook the well-appointed courtyard and common area. There are options for units with a vented fireplace with stone hearth and timber mantle.

The courtyard between the two buildings in each phase will have a fire pit with seating, a shared grill and cooking area, as well as festive lighting and landscaping that will include boulders and plants to give the surroundings the ambiance of a mountain setting. Each townhouse will also have a private patio.

Melanie Mitchell, Principal Broker and Co-Owner with Starkville Properties adds, “The courtyard will be very community oriented. It will be a wonderful place to

By Clint Kimberling 40 | TOWNANDGOWNMAGAZINE.COM

Photos submitted

gather and socialize with other Bulldog fans before and after games.”

The property is being developed by John Hartlein of J. W. Hartlein & Company who has an outstanding reputation for quality construction and has received numerous awards from the Mississippi Home Builder’s Association. Hartlein’s experience in Starkville includes commercial work at Oktibbeha County Hospital, Starkville High School and Sudduth Elementary School and he recently completed The Whitney Apartments on Lumas Street in the Cotton District.

Hartlein points out that he is especially proud of the architectural touches on the building and thinks it will stand out among other condominium and apartment buildings in Starkville. He explains it will have the feel of a mountain retreat or ski resort atmosphere due to the stone and wood accents on the building. ”We’re bringing in large boulders and rocks for landscaping to really give it an outdoorsy feel.”

Hartlein adds, “Based on other properties here in town; Sundance will be an outstanding addition to

Starkville. When you factor in the price point, quality construction, and location, it’s really unbeatable.”

Sundance offers owners and guests at least one parking spot per bedroom. And the unique feature of having onsite golf cart parking for up to five golf carts. Forget about finding a parking spot at the tailgate or campus event. Leave your car behind and take a golf cart on the short ride.

Sundance will be located on South Montgomery, just off Highway 12. Davis Wade Stadium is just under two miles away from your front door. It’s also very conveniently located near restaurants, shopping, bike trails and other campus buildings.

Lastly, Sundance will allow owners to place their units on popular vacation rental sites such as VRBO.com and Airbnb.com. This is especially nice for Bulldog fans who do not come to all sporting events and want to be able to rent their home easily when not in use.

For more information contact Starkville Properties at 662-324-0037 or visit sundancecondominiums.com https://www.facebook.com/SundanceTownhomes

Oh So Sweet!

Beat the heat with Frios Gourmet Pops

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veryone in Mississippi knows that October weather can be a little temperamental. One day it can be cool and crisp and the next it feels almost like August again, but George Simon and Urelaine Simon-Hart, owners of Frios Gourmet Pops located at 213 East Main Street in Starkville, are hoping to alleviate those August-like days with their assortment of high end popsicles.

“Our popsicles aren’t really like regular popsicles because regular popsicles are just frozen juice.

[Frios] popsicles are more like the Spanish paletas and those are made from fresh fruit,” Simon-Hart explains.

In addition to the fruit-based popsicles, Frios also has milk-based popsicles that are more similar to ice cream in texture, but oftentimes they contain actual food in them. For example the banana pudding flavor has actual Nilla wafers in it and the keylime pie has real graham crackers mixed into the popsicle.

Simon-Hart, an OBGYN from Meridian, first began her popsicle career after a family vacation to Nashville. While there, they decided to check out a local popsicle shop and Simon-Hart was surprised when everyone in her family, from her three children to her husband, loved them. On the way back home, Simon-Hart scoured the internet for popsicle recipes, paleta books and stainless steel popsicle molds so she and her family could make gourmet popsicles at home.

“For two weeks me and my kids did nothing but make popsicles when I got home from work,” Simon-Hart explains, “It was such a hit in our house that I thought ‘well, maybe there’s something to this because when we went into the shop [in Nashville] on a Sunday evening the line was out the door.’”

After doing some research on the popsicle market she stumbled across a company called Frios. The popsicle chain, established in Gadsden, Alabama, is dedicated to using simple, wholesome ingredients that are sourced from local Alabama farms. After

By Camille Watts-Carskadon

Photos submitted October 2016 | 43

meeting with the owners of Frios, everything quickly fell into place. About six weeks after meeting with the owners, Urelaine and George opened their first store in Meridian.

“It was kind of a whirlwind, but it just felt right.

It felt like some fun and different for my children and my community and it has been a hit,” SimonHart said.

Opening a second store in Starkville, felt like a no-brainer for the couple.

“I grew up in Louisiana and Starkville makes me feel like I’m at home. My son is an enormous Mississippi State fan and so over the two years we have spent a decent time in Starkville, especially during the football season. And we just have an affection for Starkville itself. The community, the people it just feels like a really friendly homey-type of town and it just seemed to make sense.”

Frios popsicles are also available for larger groups and events. This past month they brought their popsicle cart out to Starkville’s Night Market.

Another such event, called Paint and Poptails, is held at their Meridian store, but they hope to bring it over to their Starkville store.

“The Meridian store holds an event once a month called Paint and Poptails where a local artist comes and leads a painting class and we provide champagne and popsicles,” she says, “and people seemed to love that.”

As for popsicle flavors, Simon-Hart says there are around 70 to 75 flavors, but they are constantly coming up with new flavors. However, they aren’t all available at the same time. Frios has several seasonal flavors that are only available for a short time throughout the year. October marks the beginning of the fall flavors which will include pumpkin cheesecake, caramel apple and sour apple.

With so many flavors, Simon-Hart can’t pick just one favorite. She has to pick four.

“On the fruity side it’s a tie between the strawberry balsamic and the jalapeno pineapple, on the creamy side I love the sea salt caramel and the creamy latte,” she says.

Want to have Frios popsicles at your next event or meeting? Contact the Starkville store at (662) 312-1730.

Your Peeps for Getting Back to School Healthy!

#5 Professional Plaza Starkville, MS 39759 662.323.0999

StarkvillePediatricClinic.com October 2016 | 45

Inside artist Gale Belk’s cowbells

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he cowbell is one of the most unique symbols representing Mississippi State University. A fixture at Bulldog sporting events for decades, cowbells are now used to decorate offices and homes of Mississippi State alumni and even passed down through generations.

Starkville artist Gale Belk has capitalized on this trend and began turning cowbells into canvases. Belk has been painting charming, MSU-theme portraits directly onto cowbells. Her custom-designed cowbell business took off in 2014 after the Bulldogs football team spent four weeks as the #1 ranked team in the country. “I’ve turned my garage into a studio, and it’s been a wild ride ever since,” she says.

Belk actually started painting as a way to make extra money. Interestingly, though, she has no artistic background to speak of. “I had never painted and never been trained before I decided to take it on,” she explains.

“But the Lord gave me the ability to see things. God has grown my talent and blessed me with ability.”

She started small- – painting wooden letters and wall murals for friends to build up her skills. She also paints on antique windows as well as traditional canvases. “I like to be creative, I like crafty things,” she says. Of her natural talent, she describes it by saying, “I just thought that if I could see it in my mind, I could paint it. And that’s what I do.”

Belk’s cowbell paintings start with a basic Bully Bell purchased from The Lodge in Starkville. She then sands down the surface to remove any shine and uses a simple acrylic paint on the bell. She then seals them with a gloss sealer. In most cases, the design is done free-hand although, some orders come with a specific picture. “I love to put together special designs that I come up with,” she says.

The designs include a lot of sport-themed cowbells.

Belk has done paintings of Davis Wade Stadium, Dudy Noble Field and several other campus buildings.

It probably helps that Belk and her husband are big Bulldog fans. In fact, they met at an MSU pep rally and were engaged the 2000 Independence Bowl (better

By Clint Kimberling 46 | TOWNANDGOWNMAGAZINE.COM

Photos submitted

known as the Snow Bowl).

Her custom orders allow for the development of relationships, and she loves to connect with people and hear the backstory behind the cowbell she’s creating. From painting a cowbell for Homecoming Queen last year to meeting a cowbell collector, the stories are endless. “Every day I get to meet great people that love MSU.” For instance, recently she did a piece commissioned by an MSU alumnus, as a present for an incoming freshman who was joining the golf team in 2017. “I painted the Old Waverly Golf Course with Bully on the green. I loved the way it turned out. The golf coach even tweeted it out, and that was really neat.”

The bells make very popular decorations in fans’ homes as well as great presents. As tradition dictates, the first cowbell is given, not bought. Belk’s custom cowbells start at $67.20 and go up to $150 depending on the level of detail requested by the customer, which can be a lot.

“You just won’t believe what people put on cowbells nowadays.”

Belk says she will continue to paint cowbells for MSU fans and alumni. “It’s a really cool way to celebrate family. To know that I’m creating something that will be eventually passed down to future generations.”

48 | TOWNANDGOWNMAGAZINE.COM

Belk’s artwork and cowbells are available for purchase at The Lodge at MSU. Find more information by searching “Gale’s Heavenly Expressions” on Facebook.

www.msucatering.com

We Dream. We Do.

Health with Katie Zampini: Tips for the New Mother

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atural, nurturing, nutritious…and not always easy. Breastfeeding is one of the most discussed topics in the field of nutrition. The research is abundantly clear: breastfeeding offers the most natural and complete nutrition for babies while providing bonding and other innumerable benefits to both mothers and babies. Of course, every mother wants to give the very best start to her children, and many mothers desire a successful breastfeeding relationship. However, to assume that something as natural as breastfeeding is, therefore, intuitive and easy is a mistake. Successful breastfeeding depends on upon many factors, and great breastfeeding education and support are essential.

Preparing for Breastfeeding Success There are some steps that can be taken by moms-to-be to facilitate breastfeeding success:

By Katie Zampini

-Take a class and do some reading. Breastfeeding is natural, but it is also learned. Before your baby arrives, take the time to learn about breastfeeding from a qualified teacher and do some reading. See the list of recommended reading featured in this article.

-Build a relationship with an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) before baby’s arrival. The importance of this cannot be overstated!

Establishing a relationship with an IBCLC is as important as choosing your child’s pediatrician in advance. An IBCLC will partner with you in establishing a thriving breastfeeding relationship and will be the most knowledgeable source of information for you in those critical first weeks of breastfeeding.

-Join a community of breastfeeding moms, in person or online. Historically, breastfeeding has always been taught from one mom to another, and from one generation to the next. Joining a community of women Photos by Emily Grebenc Photography | www.emilygrebencphotography.com October 2016 | 49

who share breastfeeding knowledge is an important key to success. La Leche League has a chapter in Starkville/Columbus through which breastfeeding moms can field questions and receive support and encouragement along their breastfeeding journey.

-Be aware of possible breastfeeding pitfalls. There are certain things an inexperienced breastfeeding mother may not know to look for which can truly threaten breastfeeding success in the beginning.

For example, lip ties and tongue ties are relatively common (although only recently garnering adequate attention), and if not caught early enough they can negatively affect a mother’s milk supply. This is another great reason to build a relationship with an IBCLC before the birth of your child; she can help you identify problems such as this promptly before your milk supply can be negatively affected.

-Be your own advocate. Breastfeeding will likely present some questions and problems in the early days. At the end of the day, it’s important for a mom to feel like she took ownership of the breastfeeding journey and pursued it in the way she felt was right.

Get the answers and support that you need.

If Breastfeeding Doesn’t Go as Planned If commitment and desire, (not to mention selflessness and support), were all that is required for breastfeeding success, there wouldn’t be countless mothers who experience the grief and disappointment of breastfeeding failure. Yes, breastfeeding success depends largely on a mother receiving good breastfeeding education and ongoing support, but it is also dependent upon her having a capable body as well as her ability to avoid, identify, and solve any pitfalls in a very timely manner.

For moms who have struggled with true low milk supply (called primary lactation failure), studies are frustratingly only beginning to show that low milk supply is indeed a physiological reality for some moms and can be unrelated to breastfeeding management. Furthermore, the often intertwined causes of low milk supply, often involving complex hormonal imbalances, can be extremely difficult to dissect with the information that is currently available to doctors. This leaves some mothers feeling the pain of disappointment without concrete answers or solutions.

Should a mother who desired to exclusively breastfeed find herself in the position of being unable to do so, she may fight feelings of inadequacy, guilt, and failure (not exactly what a new mother needs!). These feelings can be exacerbated by the 50 | TOWNANDGOWNMAGAZINE.COM

overwhelmingly blanketed principle that breastfeeding success depends entirely upon good management (i.e.

“If you feed on demand, your body will produce enough milk.”) While this is largely true for most mothers, it is not true for all mothers. For mothers struggling with this disappointment, www.mobimotherhood.org is a wonderful resource.

It is of utmost importance to remember that the number one rule of breastfeeding is to “Feed the baby!”

The medical community, while rightly supportive of mothers’ efforts to exclusively breastfeed, is beginning to draw more attention to the extremely serious results of insufficient nutrition in the earliest days of a child’s life. The amazing benefits of breastfeeding should not supersede the critical importance of making sure a baby is fed sufficiently if the supply of breast milk is not adequately meeting a baby’s needs. See www.fedisbest. org for more information and to be encouraged if breastfeeding is not going as planned. Always consult your child’s pediatrician if you are concerned that your

newborn is receiving insufficient milk.

From Mother to Mother To the mother who is disappointed in the way her breastfeeding journey has gone or is currently going, take heart. As wonderful as breastfeeding can be, it is only one small chapter in the life of your child. As a mother, you will have many opportunities everyday to nurture your child, both nutritionally and in other significant ways. Of course, you want this chapter to be successful too; just remember that you can only do the best you can do. Be willing to redefine success when it comes to breastfeeding.

To all mothers who have breastfed, it’s important to remember that the only breastfeeding journey you’ve been on is your own. For every mother who has had a beautiful experience, there is a mother who has truly tried, struggled, and perhaps been disappointed.

Likewise, there are countless mothers who enjoy feelings of accomplishment and joy in having successful breastfeeding journeys.

Nourishing the Breastfeeding Mother Enjoy a nourishing smoothie that encourages milk supply.

Blend the following until smooth: -1 banana -1/3 cup rolled oats -2 tbs ground flax seed -1 cup loosely packed spinach -1/2 cup frozen berries of choice -1 cup almond milk Resources: The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding, by La Leche League International Making More Milk, by Diana West and Lisa Marasco www.lalecheleague.org La Leche League (locally): www.lllalmsla. org, and on Facebook www.mobimotherhood.org www.fedisbest.org www.Kellymom.com

We’re dedicated to patient safety.

And our record proves it.

STRAIGHT A’S

A 2013 SINCE 2012

HOSPITAL SAFETY SCORE SM

Baptist Golden Triangle is the only hospital in Mississippi to have earned the Hospital Safety Score Straight A’s since 2012 in patient safety, placing us among only 98 hospitals in the country earning this distinction.

A national organization focused on improving quality and safety, The Leapfrog Group® follows hospital performance for safety, errors, injuries, accidents and infections. Get to know us. And get better with Baptist.

Get Better. goldentriangle.baptistonline.org 52 | TOWNANDGOWNMAGAZINE.COM

662-244-1000

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C o o w k o er l S ?

S u p p er s Almost everyone in the South breathes a sigh of relief when October finally arrives. With October comes cooler temperatures and wind that nibbles at our faces, warning us that soon enough we will be bundling up in our winter coats. But for now, we enjoy the cool air and the crisp wind. The downside of autumn is the shortening of days. Many of us already feel that there isn’t enough time in the day to do the tasks we need to do and with night coming sooner we begin to feel more and more rushed especially when it comes to dinner. My family tends to eat later and later as the seasons change. I’m not sure whether it’s because I have no concept of time passing in the evening or if I just grow lazier as the year goes on. Either way, in the autumn slow cooker meals, are a lifesaver for us. We usually prepare them the night before and pop them into the slow cooker right before we leave for work. There’s nothing like coming home from a long day at work to a dinner that’s ready to eat. - Camille Watts-Carksadon

Recipes and photos by Lisa Bynum

Slow Cooker Tamale Pie Serves 4-6

Tamale Dough: 2 cups instant Masa Harina 1 teaspoon baking powder ¼ teaspoon salt 2 cups chicken broth ½ cup vegetable oil Filling: 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 pounds ground venison or beef 1 small onion, finely chopped 3 cloves minced garlic 1 (10 oz.) can red enchilada sauce 2 tablespoons cornstarch ¼ cup water 1 teaspoon chili powder ¾ teaspoon ground cumin 1 cup beef broth

Whisk together masa, baking powder, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Add broth and oil and stir to combine until dough becomes soft paste. Cover bowl let dough rest for at least 15 minutes at room temperature.

In the meantime, preheat oil in a large skillet over medium high heat.

Reduce heat to medium and add ground venison or beef and onions.

Cook until meat is no longer pink, being sure to break up any large chunks. Add minced garlic and cook for 2 more minutes. Stir in enchilada sauce.

In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water. Stir in chili powder, cumin, and broth. Add mixture to meat and stir to combine.

To assemble, spread meat in an even layer over the bottom of the crock of a slow cooker. Gently spread tamale dough over the top of the meat mixture. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours until dough is set.

Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore Serves 4-6

4 – 6 chicken quarters, skin on 1 – 2 tablespoon olive oil 1 medium onion, thinly sliced 1 red bell pepper, coarsely chopped ½ lb. white button mushrooms, sliced 2 cloves garlic, minced

½ cup dry vermouth (Or white wine. You can also use chicken broth) 1 (14.5 oz.) diced tomatoes ½ teaspoon dried oregano or 3-4 sprigs fresh oregano ¼ – ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes ¼ teaspoons salt

Season chicken quarters with salt and pepper.

In a large saute pan, heat olive

oil over medium high heat. Brown chicken on both sides in hot oil for about 8-10 minutes.

Meanwhile, add remaining ingredients to slow cooker.

Arrange chicken quarters over mixture. Cook on high for 4 hours or low for 8 hours.

Slow Cooker Country Style Pork Ribs with Parmesan Corn Grits Serves 6

Country-style ribs: 3 pounds bone-in country-style pork ribs Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper 3 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided 1 onion, chopped 2 carrots, chopped 2 stalks celery, chopped 4 cloves garlic, minced 2 tablespoons tomato paste ¼ cup apple cider vinegar 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes 2 bay leaves 1 cup dark beer 1½ cups chicken stock Parmesan Corn Grits: Cooking spray 1 cup chicken stock 2 cups water 1 cup heavy cream 2 teaspoons salt ½ teaspoon ground black pepper 1 cup corn grits 2 tablespoons butter 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper ½ cup grated Parmesan

For the ribs: Heat two tablespoons of oil in a large Dutch oven over medium high heat. Season ribs with salt and pepper.

Add ribs to the pan in batches and brown on all sides. Remove to a paper

towel lined plate and set aside.

Add onions, carrots, celery, and garlic to the crock of a slow cooker.

Season with salt and ground black pepper. Nestle pork ribs in the vegetable mixture.

In a separate bowl, combine tomato paste, vinegar, and red pepper flakes.

Pour mixture over the top of the short ribs.

Cook on high for 4 hours or low for six hours.

For the corn grits: Combine liquid ingredients in a large saucepan. Season with salt and pepper. Bring mixture to a low boil over medium high heat.

Stir in the grits. Reduce heat to medium low. Cover and simmer, stirring often, until liquid is absorbed and grits are tender, about 30-45 minutes.

Remove pan from heat. Stir in butter and Parmesan cheese. Season with additional salt and pepper if desired.

Baked Eggs with Andouille and Black Beans Serves 6

1 small onion, diced 2 cloves garlic, chopped 1 teaspoon cumin, toasted and ground 1 teaspoon chipotle chili powder 2 jalapeno peppers, diced 1 (28 ounce) can diced tomatoes or 4 cups diced fresh tomatoes 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained 1 teaspoon oregano salt and pepper to taste 1 pound andouille sausage, sliced 4 eggs 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese 1 handful cilantro, chopped, optional 1 ripe avocado, sliced, optional

Combine all ingredients except cilantro, eggs, cheese, and avocado in

the crock of a slow cooker.

Cook on low for six hours or high for three hours.

Preheat the broiler. Spoon mixture into an 8 x 8 casserole dish or into six individual oven-safe 16 ounce ramekins. Sprinkle with cheese.

Using the back of a spoon, make and indention in the sausage-bean mixture for each of the eggs. Crack one egg into the center of each indention. Broil until eggs are cooked to your preference, 5-7 minutes for runny eggs, 7-10 minutes for eggs that are more well-done.

Garnish each serving with cilantro and avocado slices, if desired.

French Dip Sandwiches Serves 6

4 pounds rump roast 1 large onion, sliced 1 (10.5 ounce can) beef broth 1 (10.5 ounce can) condensed French onion soup

12 ounces dark beer 6 French rolls 2 tablespoons butter, softened 6 slices Provolone cheese, optional

Place roast fat side up in a slow cooker. Arrange onion slices over roast. Add beef broth, French onion soup, and beer.

Cook on low for 5 hours. Remove roast from slow cooker and allow to rest for 15 minutes. Shred meat.

In the meantime, preheat the broiler. Spread butter over the inside of the rolls. Broil until rolls are toasted, about 3-5 minutes.

Pile sliced meat along the center of each roll. Top with sliced onions.

Place a slice of Provolone over the top of each sandwich. Return to the oven and heat until the cheese is melted, about 1 minute.

Season remaining juice with salt and pepper. Serve alongside the sandwich in individual bowls for dipping.

October 2016 | 59

Shirt, Shoes & Sweater: Susan’s Hallmark Jeans: Giggleswick

Town and Gown’s Fall Fashions P hotography by Divian Connor | Hair by Mia Salon | Makeup by Merle Norman Luna Bella | Clothes provided by The Book Mart and Cafe, Giggleswick, Park P lace Boutique & Susan’s Hallmark

Outfit: Giggleswick

Outfit: Book Mart Shoes: Susan’s Hallmark

Outfit: Park P lace Boutique

Shirt & Scarf: Susan’s Hallmark Jeans: Giggleswick

Outfit: Book Mart Shoes: Park P lace Boutique

Outfit: Giggleswick Purse: Susan’s Hallmark

Outfit: Park P lace Boutique

Shirt: Susan’s Hallmark Jeans: Giggleswick

Outfit: Park P lace Boutique

Shirt & Poncho: Susan’s Hallmark Jeans: Giggleswick

October 2016 | 71

NEW at VITALITY Starkville!

Norvell Spray Tan and the

Bellus Medical Skin Pen

(662) 323-5377 • 321 University Dr. , Starkville, MS

72 | TOWNANDGOWNMAGAZINE.COM

Starkville’s Night Market Photos by Brittney Dowell

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1. The Crabtree Family 2. McKayla Brubaker and Emily Keeton 3. Marty Kelly and Brittany Gusmus 4. Elise Carleton and Mary King 5. Tamara Lowe and Alma Gillespie 6. Jesse Newton, Caroline Skipper and Morgan Beech October 2016 | 73

Forks and Corks Photos by Camille Watts-Carskadon

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1. Parker and Lindsey Wiseman 2. Leslie Denson, Cary Denson and Christy Rendon 3. Parker Mullins, Summer Lathum and Paul Kosko 4.

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Shades of Starkville Photos by Ashley Covin

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1. Amber Kay and Mallory Holder 2. Anne Elizabeth Bays 3. Brandi Street and Melanie Busby 4. Cheryl Chambers and Doug Bedsaul 5.

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October 2016 | 75

National Night Out Photos by Ashley Covin

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1. Amber Jacobson 2. Dorretha Robinson and Lt.Henry Stewart 3. Dylan Kelly and Cpl. Josh Wilson 4. Jae McIntosh, Peyton Poole and Jessica Dobbs 5. John Jefferson, Alyssa Hall and Michelle Edinburgh 6. Michael Edwards, Edwin Suggs, Greg Cochran and Josh Cox 76 | TOWNANDGOWNMAGAZINE.COM

Whitetails Unlimited Anuual Banquet Photos by Ashley Covin

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Backyard Picnic for MSU Students Photos by Brittney Dowell

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Jimmy and Patti Abraham hosted a “Backyard Picnic” at their home for nearly 100 students who are enrolled at Mississippi State. All are sons, daughters, brothers, or sisters of former Alumni Delegates, Orientation Leaders, or Roadruners he advised when he worked at MSU”

78 | TOWNANDGOWNMAGAZINE.COM

R. Tabb’s Fall Fashion Photos by Brittney Dowell

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1. Christy Cater, Jenifer Bond, Rebecca Tabb, Katie Thompson, Nicole Oswalt, Macy Clement and Allison Calhoun 2. Lauren Ware, Rebecca Tabb and Trish Jones 3. Mandy and Piper Conrad 4.Christy Cater October 2016 | 79

North Central Mississippi’s United Way Kick-off Photos by Margaret McMullen

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1. Candy Creunk, Angella Baker, Matt Matthews and Stephanie Arnett 2. Taylor Hackney and Shelley Clair Dornan 3.Patty Tucker and Uchechi Emelogu 4. Cedric Ward and Carolyn Ward 5. Bo Bell, Jimmie Brown, Joe Brown and Cindy Brown 6. Corbin Loper, Yanik Trojillo, Mills Hooper, Caleb Grant, and Andrew Ludwick 80 | TOWNANDGOWNMAGAZINE.COM

Summer Scholars Performance Photos by Keats Voges-Haupt

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1. Emily Turner, Paula Mabry and Rachel Damms 2. Amber Burns and Ceci Heard 3. Mandy Hackman and Leah Rabideau 4. Pam Beety and Kris Lee 5. Kathryn Walters and Matthew Morgan 6. Jim Turner, Lillie Turner and John Turner

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MSU vs South Alabama Tailgating Photos by Keats Voges-Haupt

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1.Lauralee Fant, Abbey Mangum, Stacy Mangum and Mary Grace Downs 2. Anna Pike, Katy Pike and Maggie Pike 3. Rico and Bre Bennett and Jamie Logan 4. Jake Beck, Charle Osborne, Rob Baird, Jerry Beck and Kimball Beck 5. Chase Hoge and Phillip Baggett 6.Traie Bain, Preston Cline, Jonathan Lancaster, Tatum Cline, Emily Trickline and Jeremy Powers 82 | TOWNANDGOWNMAGAZINE.COM

/mscollegetown

Instagram Us @starkvillems

visit.starkville.org

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restore my spirit.”

— Suzanne Dressel DIGITAL MAMMOGRAPHY STEREOTACTIC BREAST BIOPSY BREAST ULTRASOUND CLINICAL BREAST EXAM BREAST MRI

Patients at the CENTER FOR BREAST HEALTH & IMAGING are under the care of a team of well-trained caregivers. Board-certified general surgeon Dr. Travis Methvin and certified family nurse practitioner Dana Brooks work together to provide patients not only the latest tools and techniques in the diagnosis and management of breast disease, but also the emotional support needed along the way.

(662) 615-3800 • 401 Hospital Road • Starkville • www.och.org