Town and Gown Magazine by Town & Gown Magazine

OCTOBER 2012

Best Of 2012

Food & Drink Service Shopping Arts & Entertainment page 10

Positively Pink Awareness page 60

Town&Gown magazine

would like to cordially invite recently engaged or married couples to announce their special occasion in the January Bridal issue of 2013. Offering: 1/2 page at $100 Full page at $175 For more information please call 662-323-1642 or email claire@townandgownmagazine.com. Deadline: December 5, 2012

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Editor’s Note

ou have voted and we have counted! The votes are in and now Town and Gown magazine would like to announce the winners of the Best of 2012. What an exciting issue this is for the readers to speak out about the Best of Food and Drink, Service, Shopping and Arts and Entertainment in Starkville and the surrounding areas. (page 10) This area is growing each and every day. With MSU by it’s side, the opportunities are endless with the oldest running business in Starkville (page 40) to the latest nutritional shop opening. (page 49) Plus, with the newest “FroYo” (frozen yogurt) shop on page 51 and classy wine and spirits store on page 47, the growth of this community never seems to seize. The October issue is not only my favorite issue for the Best Mayor Parker Wiseman and I at the Tombigbee Valley Fall District Meeting welcoming all of 2012, but it has been a life-changing experience – if that! It district gardeners to Starkville at the Hilton is Breast Cancer Awareness month and Town and Gown mag- Garden Inn on September 13, 2012. azine had the honor of photographing and talking to some of the strongest women I have ever met, Starkville women who have survived and are surviving breast cancer. They bring a “Positively Pink” attitude of courage and strength to their situation with the help of friends and family. (page 60) I promise the October issue of Town and Gown will be your favorite too when you flip through the pages. We thank you for your votes for the Best of 2012 and don’t forget to have a “Happy October Yall”!

Claire Massey Editor Claire Massey

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A Product of Horizon of Mississippi P.O. Box 1068 | Starkville, MS 39760 www.townandgownmagazine.com

{

staff

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Don Norman | publisher sdnpublisher@bellsouth.net

Claire Massey | editor claire@townandgownmagazine.com

Jessica Bailey | acct. exec. jessica@ townandgownmagazine.com

Ann Ashton Jones | acct. exec. annashton@ townandgownmagazine.com

Lizzie Smith | Intern

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writers

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Shea Allen Meg Henderson Emily Jones Joe Lee Susan Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Bryan Hellen Polk Lizzie Smith Lindsay Jo Wilkinson Milton Whatley

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ph o t o g r a ph e r s

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Divian Conner Ashley Covin Laura Daniels Claire Massey Debbie Montgomery Lizzie Smith

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page design

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Claire Massey

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Chris McMillen

Reproductions in whole or in part, without written permission, is strictly prohibited. No responsibility can be assumed for unsolicited manuscripts, articles or photographs. We reserve the right to edit submissions before publication. Town & Gown is a free magazine published monthly and distributed in and around Starkville and the Golden Triangle area. Subscriptions are available for mail customers. For subscriptions or inquiries, write Town & Gown Magazine, P.O. Box 1068, Starkville, MS, 39760, or call 662-323-1642. 6

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Contents

44 54

47 51

Food & Drink Arts & Entertainment

On the cover OCTOBER 2012

Best Of 2012

Food & Drink Service Shopping Arts & Entertainment page page 10 10

Positively Pink Awareness page 60

Voted Best 2012 Gift Shop by the readers of Town and Gown magazine, Aspen Bay is located on Starkville’s Main Street and combines rustic and elegance with their fall decor. PHOTO BY LIZZIE SMITH

features

Service Shopping

Departments

BEST OF 2012

AccOMPLISHING MORE TOGETHER THAN ALONE

INSIDE OUT

STILL FIzzING SINcE 1928

EAT DRINK

MAROON MADNESS & PUMPKINPALOOzA

SHOPPING

LIFESTYLES

A TOAST TO ScOTTY’S WINE & SPIRITS

ON THE PAGE

OUT AND ABOUT

A HEALTHY cHANGE

SEE HEAR

THE NEWEST TWIST ON “FROYO”

THOUSAND WORDS

EDITOR’S NOTE

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&Drink

Food

Best Restaurant The Veranda Serving both lunch and dinner, The Veranda Restaurant won in the Best Restaurant category in our Best of Food and Drink category. “We set ourselves apart with our steaks, seafood, and specials,” said co-owner and chef Jay Yates.“The steaks we serve are Stockyard Angus, one of the oldest, most historic beef houses in the country. They grade in the top six percent of all beef. The only higher grade is prime, which is the top three percent, and much of ours looks like prime when we cut it.” Correct cooking technique is an essential at The Veranda. Yates says that an extremely hot, clean grill, a little oil, copious amounts of salt and pepper, and the chef ’s feel for the doneness of the steaks is what they use to achieve the perfect steak. “As for our seafood, we just strive for the most fresh, inseason fish as possible,” Yates said. “We use seafood from the gulf, Chesapeake, Maine, Alaska, and Hawaii. Our catfish is 100 percent Mississippi farm-raised. Our specials allow our chefs, me included, to stretch our culinary muscles, and our guests seem to agree. As for lunch, our blue plate is preeminent. Boneless fried chicken in creamy pepper gravy on Tuesday and Thursday are very popular.” Open seven days a week at 11 a.m., the Veranda Restaurant is located at 208 Lincoln Green, Starkville. Visit them at verandastarkville.com. 10

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Voted by Town and Gown Magazine Readers Written by Joe Lee

2012

Best Sandwich Shop Newk’s Express Cafe’

Not quite a year old, Newk’s of Starkville has made quite an impression, winning the Best Sandwich Shop category in our Best of Food and Drink category. That’s no small feat, given the many sandwich options around town. “Our food is prepared when you order it, from fresh ingredients with each menu item made from scratch,” said Joel Van Der Weele, general manager of Newk’s of Starkville. “You are eating a meal—whether it’s a pizza, sandwich, or salad—that has been prepared by hand, just for you, when you order it. The freshness comes through in each bite.” The Newk’s menu is about as unique as any you’ll find at any sandwich shop. “Our customers all have their favorites, of course, but some of the most-commented on items are the Newk’s favorite salad, the Newk’s Q sandwich, the Spicy Chicken Pizza, and the fabulous strawberry cake,” Van Der Weele said. “Newk’s strives daily to deliver quality food as well as exceptional customer service. We know that our loyal customers have a choice on where they will eat, and we want to do everything possible to make each dining experience worthy of our customers’ faith in us.” Visit Newk’s of Starkville at 132 U.S. Highway 12 W in Starkville.

and contributed many of the recipes and creations you’ll find on the menu. Most of our staff has been here from the beginning, including Shirley Franklin, Stephanie Franklin, Glenda Gandy, and Emma Brown. They’re the backbone of our success.” Nettie Mathis makes the mouth-watering side items, including corn salad, turnip greens, cole slaw, and baked beans. The ribs, chicken, catfish, and sandwiches on the menu are legendary, and the fried ribs, Wood said, have a cult following. “A small, family-owned business has to maintain its focus and meet expectations. It’s our goal to do a better job today than we did yesterday. That’s what keeps people coming back,” Wood said. “We’ve just built on to the original A-frame house over the years, and our customers tell us it has a lot more appeal than the chain stores out there.” The Little Dooey is located at 100 Fellowship St. Call 662323-6094 or visit on line at littledooey.com.

Best Coffee Shop Strange Brew Coffeehouse

Best Barbecue The Little Dooey Photo submitted

Photo by Lizzie Smith Barry and Margaret Ann Wood of Starkville began what eventually became The Little Dooey by selling barbecue and sauce in a gas station. The family relocated to an A-frame house in 1985 and has attracted a nationwide following thanks to multiple mentions on ESPN and endorsements Charlie Daniels and Lee Greenwood. They’re the Best Barbecue winner in our Best of Food and Drink category. “We have a relentless approach to being consistent,” said general manager Bart Wood. “My mother owns the restaurant

An archaeology major in his college days, MSU grad Shane Reed went in a totally different direction seven years ago and opened Strange Brew Coffeehouse, which won Best Coffee in our Best of Food & Drink category. “Shane’s creativity has made Strange Brew what it is,” said assistant manager Katelyn Ullmer. “He puts the signs together which get everybody’s attention on football weekends, and he handles our Twitter account.” In addition to a good cup of house coffee, you’ll find a fascinating variety of specialty frappes that make for great conversation as well as enjoyment. “We have a King Cake frappe with King Cake blended right in,” Ullmer said. “Our Girl Scout Cookie frappes have Girl Scout cookies blended right in. Another favorite is the caramel and bacon frappe, and the Albino Squirrel is a house specialty with white chocolate and hazelnut. “We have freshly-roasted coffee that’s made right here in Mississippi, which is something that sets us apart. And Strange Brew is a fun place to hang out not only for MSU students, but everyone who enjoys a good specialty coffee drink.” Open early and late seven days a week, Strange Brew Coffeehouse is located at 605 U.S. Highway 12. Visit them on line at strangebrewcoffeehouse.com to order one-pound bags of coffee to ship, as well as items such as mugs and T-shirts. townandgownmag.com

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Best Blue Plate The Veranda The Veranda Restaurant will celebrate its tenth anniversary in January, meaning that Owner Frank Jones and Co-Owner/ Chef Jay Yates are doing plenty of things the right way. And that includes earning the Best Blue Plate in our Best of Food and Drink Category.. “The history of the blue plate goes back to the Great Depression,” said Yates, whose dad (as well as Jones’ father) played football at MSU in the 1960s. “Workers and travelers ate in mom and pop diners and wanted hearty, home-cooked food that was inexpensive. It was typically served on a blue rimmed plate, and we serve ours on an actual blue plate to honor this tradition. “Our format is one meat and three sides, cornbread or biscuit, beverage, and tax—all for nine dollars. There was virtually no one doing this when we opened. What sets us apart is that we prepare everything from scratch every day.” Yates serves up fried chicken, mashed potatoes, fried okra, green tomatoes, rice and gravy, fried catfish, biscuits, pork chops, hamburger steaks, Vardaman sweet potatoes, and turnip greens. “Another factor is speed,” Yates said. “If you order a blue plate from our kitchen, odds are it may arrive at your table before your drink arrives, provided you ordered them at the same time.” Open seven days a week at 11 a.m., the Veranda Restaurant is located at 208 Lincoln Green, Starkville. Visit them at verandastarkville.com.

Best China Chinese Garden There’s nothing quite like a plate or two of delectable Chinese food, and you’ll find a fantastic array of sumptuous dishes on the buffet line and on the China Garden menu. They’re the winner of the Best Chinese category in our Best of Food & Drink category. Whether you’re hungry for a plate of Lo Mein noodles or a five-course meal, you’ll enjoy the comfortable surroundings, the polite servers, and the relaxing music that’s piped into the dining room. Old favorites include Sesame Chicken and Sweet and Sour Pork, and the buffet is loaded with everything from Moo Goo Gai Pan and General Tzu Chicken to vegetable-heavy dishes like beef and broccoli and shrimp with snow peas. There are several different varieties of soup on the buffet line, as well as chicken strips for the kids. China Garden’s extensive lunch buffet is modestly-priced at lunch, and while you’ll pay a little more at dinner, there are even more items available. And there’s always the option of a quiet, sit-down dinner with classic entrees from the menu. China Garden is located at 821 U.S. Highway 12, Starkville. They’re open seven days a week. 12

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Best Pizza Dave’s Dark Horse Tavern

Photo submitted Two decades ago, Dave Hood of Starkville worked at an establishment known as Bully III. He bought the business in 1995 and renamed it Dave’s Dark Horse Tavern. It has the honor of winning the Best Pizza division in our Best of Food and Drink category, meaning it beat out all the well-known national chains around town. “One of the biggest differences between us and others are our old-fashioned deck ovens,” Hood said. “Our pizzas are cooked on stones which give them the firmer crust unlike the conveyor belt ovens used in other places. We also offer both New York and Chicago style pizzas.” The Chicago pizzas, which are stuffed, double-crusted, and served in a steel pie pan, include The Titan, The Coliseum, The Venetian, The Capone, and The Walter Payton. If you don’t eat meat, you can still enjoy The Green Mill, which is packed with mouth-watering vegetables. Of the many New York-style pizzas, try the Bayou Beast, the Minotaur, the Apollo, the Josey Wales, The McGovern, or The Manhattan Project. In addition, Hood is happy to stock a rapidly-growing section of craft beers which have proven to be a winner with his customers. Dave’s Dark Horse Tavern is located at 410 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive. Visit online at davesdarkhorse.com or call 662-324-3316.

Best French Fries Arby’s Many folks think of roast beef sandwiches when Arby’s is mentioned, but Arby’s of Starkville won our Best of Food & Drink category for Best French Fries. That’s quite an accomplishment, considering that establishments which serve burgers, chicken, and sandwiches almost always have fries on the menu. “We always have hot, fresh French fries available. People love them and keep coming back for them,” said general manager Shenikia Shelton, who has been at the Starkville location just

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about a year and in the business for almost five. “They are prepared as they’re ordered. We stress to our staff not to overcook or under cook them.” The key to success, at least when it comes to preparing French Fries at the Starkville Arby’s, may be very simple. Do one thing, and do it right. “We serve one type of French fries,” Shelton said. “Not a whole bunch of varieties. We just dump them in the fryer and go.” Open seven days a week, Arby’s is located at 112 U.S. Highway 12.

Best Restaurant Service The Veranda

Photo by Lizzie Smith There’s nothing quite like poor or indifferent service at a restaurant to keep you from setting foot in the place again. That’s something Jay Yates, chef and co-owner of The Veranda Restaurant is well aware of, and he’s proud that his establishment is being honored for Best Restaurant Service in our Best of Food and Drink category. “I have people tell me two things all the time,” Yates said. “If you have great food, service isn’t that important. And if you have great service, the food can just be mediocre.” The Starkville native doesn’t necessarily see it that way. “I happen to believe that you need to be truly successful and

live up to your commitment to your guests, your staff, and yourself,” Yates said. “The overall feel or ambience is the third leg of a great dining experience. The music, the attitudes, the crisp uniforms and friendly smiles, the genuine connection our guests feel with the staff – are all components of this elusive goal. “We hire great attitudes and train them in our system. We encourage our servers, bartenders, and hosts to let their individual personalities show. We don’t want the robotic, corporate fell you get in many places that are as structured as we are.” Open seven days a week at 11 a.m., the Veranda Restaurant is located at 208 Lincoln Green, Starkville. Visit them at verandastarkville.com.

Best Bakery The Cake Box

Photo by Divian Conner

Nothing will brighten your day quite like the smell when you walk into a bakery. This year’s winner in our Best of Food and Drink category for Best Bakery is The Cake Box, a home-based business owned and operated by Carol Taylor. Cupcakes continue to be the most popular item,” said Taylor, a pastry chef who has over 20 years of experience in the business. “We have over twenty flavors. Customers love them because they are easy to serve and they can get a variety of flavors. “It is our goal to take care of our customers and offer them a vast variety of product for all their needs from anniversaries to tailgating we can create a memory with our custom products.” What sets The Cake Box apart from many out there competing for the sweet-tooth business? “We bake our products fresh out of the oven,” Taylor said. “Our products have a unique taste because of long-standing recipes they we continue to produce. Everything tastes better made from scratch.” The Cake Box is located at 1016 B Louisville St., Starkville. Taylor can be reached at 662-648-7000.

Best Milkshake Zaxby’s In addition to their delicious chicken wings, buffalo tenders, and unique salads, there’s a secret weapon available at Zaxby’s that’s made quite an impression on Starkville. Zaxby’s is the winner of the Best Milkshake category in our Best of Food & Drink category. townandgownmag.com

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“We offer three regular milkshake flavors: vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry,” said general manager Lorinda Buckley. “I would say strawberry is the favorite of those three flavors. We usually offer seasonal milkshakes also, including the Birthday Cake Shake, which I think is everyone’s favorite. We bring it back every July, and everyone is excited to have it back. “The reason our milkshakes are popular may be that we use real ice cream, milk and whip cream instead of a mix.” Zaxby’s is open seven days a week. You’ll find them at 829 U.S. Highway 12.

Best Burger Mugshots Grill and Bar

Mugshots Grill and Bar opened in 2004 and wasted no time in attracting positive attention, winning the Starkville Daily News “Best of ” award for Best Burger in 2005 and each year since. And they’re the winner iof the Best Burger in our Best of Food & Drink category. “Our slogan is ‘Having a Good Time,’” said general manager Joe Love. “It is a huge part of our success and we provide that atmosphere every day. When it comes to burgers, we have another saying: ‘it’s all about the bun.’ All come on a sourdough bun, which alone provides enormous taste. Our bun, great quality meat, and uniqueness sets us apart from other vendors.” Mugshots also offers a great selection of pastas, salads, appetizers, and sandwiches. There are specialty burgers ranging from the Walker (a blue cheese burger) to Anthony’s Peanut Butter Burger. “By far our most popular is the McDonald burger, which is a ranch and barbecue burger with bacon, cheddar, lettuce, tomato, and fresh red onions,” Love said. “If you’re up to a challenge, try the Mugshot, which is three burgers stacked on top of each other, loaded to the brim with all the fixings as well as fries.” Located at 101 N. Douglas Conner Drive, Mugshots Grill and Bar is open seven days a week. Visit them on line at mugshotsgrillandbar.com.

Best Japanese Umi Japanese Sushi Bar How about a mouthwatering plate of sushi? It’s an acquired taste to be sure, but there are sushi lovers all over Starkville, and many love the sushi and the many other menu items at Umi. They’re the winner of the Best Japanese category in our Best of Food & Drink category.

Photo by Divian Conner 14

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There’s also the hibachi aspect of the dining experience, which is as entertaining as it is delectable – bring your kids and watch their eyes light up as one of the skilled chefs prepares your chicken, steak, or beef in a theatrical performance worthy of a big stage. Open for both lunch and dinner, Umi offers several dining rooms for an intimate meal as well as the excitement of the hibachi-prepared cuisine. Drop by their location at 315 U.S. Highway 12 or call to place a to-go order at 662-323-5258.

Best Mexican La Terraza

How about a hot, tasty, and moderately-priced Mexican in a relaxing atmosphere? There are lots of places in town to eat Mexican, but La Terraza won the Best Mexican of our Best of Food & Drink Category. Lunch favorites include Huevos Rancheros, Enchiladas Verdes, and the La Terraza Cheese Steak. You can also build your own lunch combo for just $5.25, or choose from a selection of delicious fajitas, burritos and quesadillas. Speaking of enjoying a grande-sized meal, try the Super Burrito for just $8.49, the Enchilada Super La Terraza for $8.49, and the Super Quesadilla for $7.99. There are delicious side items such as chalupas, flautas and tamales, and even a kid menu that features hot dogs, French fries, and chicken fingers. For a fine Mexican meal, try the tasty Steak a la Tampiquena, Steak and Shrimp, or Shrimp Chimichanga. Everything is made fresh, and you’ll enjoy bantering with the friendly wait staff. La Terraza is open seven days a week. Dine with them for lunch or dinner at 111 Eckford Drive, Starkville.

Best Brunch Restaurant Tyler Located in the heart of historic downtown Starkville, Restaurant Tyler opened in 2008 and already has quite a reputation for fine food with the lunch and dinner crowds in the area. But Chef Ty Thames and his staff have really made a name for themselves with their Sunday brunch, which won the Best Brunch in our Best of Food & Drink category. “Every Sunday we serve anywhere from 250-400 people at brunch,” said Kelly Boutwell, the catering coordinator and business manager with Restaurant Tyler. “Because of our ‘college town’ status, Restaurant Tyler has a faithful following that varies throughout the year. Year-round we see the same families every Sunday after church. Come football season we have our outof-towners that we’ve formed relationships with and see every home game weekend.” Restaurant Tyler brunch favorites include Catfish Cake Benedict (smoked catfish served atop a buttermilk biscuit topped with poached eggs and smothered in a muscadine hollandaise sauce and served with cheese grits and fresh fruit) and the

2012 Photo by Claire Massey

Southern Omelet (a farm-raised chicken egg omelet with sweet potatoes, in house smoked bacon and cream cheese served with cheese grits and fresh fruit). Restaurant Tyler serves brunch from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. each Sunday. They’re open for lunch on Monday, and for lunch and dinner Tuesday-Saturday. They’re located at 100 East Main. Visit on line at eatlocalstarkville.com.

Best Wings Buffalo Wild Wings

Lunch is served Monday-Friday from 11:00 a.m. until 1:30 p.m., with a different lunch plate available each day. For only $8, you get a meat and three vegetables (or a meat, two vegetables and dessert), with bread, tea and tax included. The daily plates include favorites such as chicken spaghetti, meatloaf, and baked chicken. Visit Cappe’s on line at cappessteakhouse.com. Call 662-3241987 for reservations, and dine in with them at 101 Eckford Drive. They’re open from 4:30–9:30 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Photo by Divian Conner Starkville welcomed the wildly popular Buffalo Wild Wings franchise to town on August 15, 2011. Not surprisingly, BWW won Best Wings in our Best of Food and Drink category. “Our most popular items include Honey Barbecue wings in both medium and mild, chicken tenders, and chicken tender wraps,” said general manager Bob Abare. “We have 16 signature sauces to choose from, with five signature dry rubs and a great variety in flavor and spice.” “We get a great deal of feedback, both positive and negative,” Abare said. “Some state that they’re the best wings ever tasted, with a great environment and good service. The negative feedback provides us with a greater opportunity to improve on our quality and service issues.” BWW is also a fantastic place to watch a game, something which may help make their wings seem even tastier. “What sets us apart is the attention to our guest, best hot wings with variety, 30 cold draft taps, and the sports,” Abare said. Buffalo Wild Wings of Starkville is located at 703 Spring Street and open seven days a week.

Best Steak Cappe’s Steakhouse A Starkville tradition since 1993, Cappe’s Steakhouse is location on Eckford Drive in 2001 is the winner of the Best Steak in our Best of Food & Drink category. The mouth-watering eight-ounce filet is a favorite of customers, as well as the 12-ounce New York Strip and the 14-ounce Large Ribeye. All are cooked to your specifications. There’s grilled shrimp and grilled chicken on the menu and signature side items like salads and baked potatoes.

Best Ice Cream/Yogurt Shop Local Culture Frozen Yogurt Winning the Best Ice Cream/Yogurt Shop in our Best of Food & Drink category is quite an accomplishment, but Local Culture, a shop owned by Bart Smith and managed by Antonio Berry that opened its doors just two short years ago won the recognition. Located in Cotton Crossing Shopping Center on Russell Street in Starkville and open seven days a week, Local Culture lets you create your yogurt treat with an eye-popping array of toppings. The dry toppings include everything from Fruity Pebbles, Oreo Cookies, and Lucky Charms to almonds, ButterPhoto by Divian Conner finger pieces and trail mix. The cold toppings range from chocolate raisins, kiwi, and cheesecake bits to mini cinnamon buns, cantaloupe, and Snickers pieces. Then there’s “The Good Stuff,” which includes butterscotch, hot fudge, honey, and hot caramel. “We offer premium self-serve yogurt. We’re not a cookie cutter franchise,” Smith said. Stop by today for a great anytime snack or for a highly nutritious meal. One ounce of Local Culture fat-free yogurt only has about 25 calories. n townandgownmag.com

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Service

Best Fitness Center MSU Sanderson Center Want to work up a sweat or lose a few pounds, reduce stress and feel full of energy? Of course you do. All this and more is available at the Joe Frank Sanderson Center on the campus of Mississippi State University. Opened in 1998, the SanderSander son Center is Mississippi Stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s $19 million state-of-the-art recreation facility. ProvidProvid ing 150,000 square feet of recreation areas, the Sanderson Center has become one of the most popular student areas on campus. The Center is accesacces sible to people with disabilities. It provides MSU staff, faculty, students and alumni with acac cess to weights, a swimming pool, a jogging track, a climbclimb ing wall, two gyms, aerobics classes and instruction in scuba diving, lifeguard training and water polo. There are numerous packpack ages available including Early Bird Specials and Family Plans. Student fees are included in tuition. Hours for Spring & Fall SeSe mesters: Monday-Friday 5:30 a.m.-11 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m.8 p.m.; Sunday 1-11 p.m. It is located at 225 Coliseum Drive. Contact Laura WallWall ing at 662-325-2179 for more information.

Photo submitted

Voted by Town and Gown Magazine Readers Written by Emily Jones

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Best of 2012 Best Sunless Tanning a azine

World Color

Jackson Street in 1967. Billie retired in 1986 and sold it to his daughter Kathy and her husband Paul Brown who operate the store today. Shep's has been serving the public for 60 years offering customers a warm, small-town charm. Shep's also offers alterations, shirt laundering and folding, bedspreads, wedding gowns, and tablecloth cleaning. Shep’s offers same day service as no extra charge if items are dropped off by 8 a.m. and next day service if in by 8:30 a.m. Their seamstress has over 30 years experience in the business and can adjust wedding gowns and formals, replace zippers, hem waists and lengths, and perform an assortment of other sewing needs. “Sending your clothes to Shep's Cleaners is always a good bet,” noted one faithful customer. “Shep's has been named `Best Cleaners` in Starkville for many years and it is just that kind of consistency that keeps them popular.” Shep’s is located at 104 Highway 12 East, and the phone number is 662-323-5852.

Best Cleaning Service Thompson Commercial Cleaning Photo by Claire Massey World Color is a full-service tanning salon featuring the most innovative equipment available. The shop doubles as an art gallery, and mini-vacation get-away because each tanning room is dedicated to a great city of the world, featuring murals depicting the architecture, art, landscape, history, and cultural aspects of each location. The owner, Angel Buckles, opened the shop in 2007. Her manager, Nicky Grieves, credited the interesting interior and friendly staff in qualifying for the Best of 2012. “We offer quality beds – all promptly and properly maintained, consistent hours and reasonable fees,” she added. “Clients enjoy the artwork and pictures of the cities as they “get away” to all parts of the world. World Color not only offers tanning but refreshments. The staff offers a wide variety of cold drinks including water, vitamin water, soda, and energy drinks. Hours are 8 a.m. – 9 p.m. Monday through Friday; 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. on Saturday; and 1-5 p.m. on Sunday. World Color is located at 500 Russell St. Suite. 17, Starkville, and the phone number is 662-323-5500.

Best Dry Cleaners Shep’s Cleaners Shep’s Cleaners was established in 1947 in downtown Starkville. The name `Shep` derived from the original owner, Shep Crigler. He sold the business to Billie Taylor when it moved to its present location on the corner of Hwy 12 and 18

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Thompson Commercial Cleaning in Starkville offers top quality professional janitorial services that will have your facility looking its very best. “We have highly trained professionals who will work hard to thoroughly clean your facility,” noted Brent Thompson, owner. “We also take pride in our customer satisfaction level, and strive to consistently offer top quality results to meet customers’ needs at a reasonable cost.” Thompson Commercial Cleaning was founded by the Starkville native Brent in 2005. Services offered include general office cleaning, window cleaning, stripping and waxing, carpet cleaning and pressure washing. In addition to the professional services, Thompson Commercial Cleaning also offers janitorial supplies for sale. Call today for a free estimate of services tailored to meet your needs! “We encourage business to let us put our experience to work for them.” Call 662-769-9900 for a free estimate.

Best Hospital OCH Regional Medical Center

With 96 beds, OCH Regional Medical Center is a primary care facility serving a seven-county area located in Starkville. Locally owned and operated, OCH invests its resources back into its facilities, medical technology and equipment, and the communities it serves to create a life saving and life enhancing facility. The more than 650 employees of OCH provide compassionate care for inpatients as well as almost 26,000 annual emer-

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gency room visitors and 29,000 outpatients. The ICU boasts one of the lowest hospital acquired infection rates in the country. It provides state-of-the-art services with almost 100 staff physicians including 12 medical specialists, sports medicine, sleep medicine, speech therapy and physical therapy. The hospital’s more than 12 medical specialties include urology, gastroenterology, ophthalmology, family medicine, obstetrics and gynecology, radiology, internal medicine, pediatrics, orthopedic surgery, and otolaryngology. The imaging department offers wide range of services utilizing some of the most advanced technology available. OCH Regional Medical Center also provides paramedic ambulance services for area residents; CPR, First Aid and Safe Sitter classes; a physician referral service (662-323-MDMD), and diabetes, arthritis and stroke support group meetings. Located at 400 Hospital Road, and hospital’s main switchboard is 662-323-4320.

Best Hair Salon Salon 28

facials, perms, body waves, and women’s, men’s and children’s haircuts. Open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m.–5:30 p.m.; Saturday from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Appointments and walk-ins available. Salon 28 is located at 500 Russell Street. Call 662- 3246900.

Best Manicure/Pedicure Lucky Nail & Spa Devan Ho opened Lucky Nails five years ago in the Starkville shopping center located at 831 Highway 12 West. He currently has eight employees including manicurists, pedicurists and specialists talented in artificial nails and acrylic sculpting. Ho said he was delighted to learn he had been singled out in the category of nail care. “We try to treat everyone fairly and make them comfortable,” he said. At least one client agrees. “They have the greatest team of people working there and I love their work,” said Cyndi BradfordReeves. “I can 100 percent recommend their work.” Hours are 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 9 a.m.–7 p.m. Friday; and 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday. Call 662-324-2599.

Best Builder Byrum Construction, Inc.

Photo by Lizzie Smith In 2010, stylist Hilary Crowley opened Salon 28 in the Cotton Crossing Shopping Center in Starkville, fulfilling a life-long dream. The Lake Village, Ark, native entered Mississippi State as a freshman and knew immediately Starkville was the perfect place to open a salon. She attended the College of Cosmetology in Columbus and worked at another Starkville salon for five years before opening the shop in Starkville Crossing. She is married and stated that the shop is “almost like my child.” Clients may purchase a full line of hair care products including Sudzz FX, Pravan, Kenra, and the newest line Awapuhi.” “I think we were selected for this honor because of the level of service we provide,” said Crowley. “We’re closest to campus and cater to all our clients needs – including color, full body waxing,

Byrum Construction, Inc. is based in Starkville and is a privately-owned company that mainly specializes in residential home construction. But its owner and president, Jonathan Byrum, said that his company can also handle projects at any level, from oneday to year-long jobs. Byrum is a 2005 graduate of Mississippi State University. He formed Byrum Construction, Inc. in 2007. He maintains his own crew, which fluctuates with the seasons and the current work load of the company. “I’ve had as many as ten on the crew,” he noted. His wife, Kathryn Byrum, acts as business manager for the company. For more information, or to obtain a free estimate, call 662769- 0687.

Best Catering Newks’ Express Cafe’ The guiding philosophy of Newk’s Express Café is simple: Give guests many good reasons to visit; give more good reasons to come back. The same philosophy applies to its full line of catering services and there are no reasons better than a variety of fresh, delicious choices made-fresh-to-order and served quickly with a smile. Assorted sandwich trays may be picked up for your next party or tailgate or delivered freshly prepared. Newk’s Box Lunch includes a Sandwich of your choice created with our highest quality of ingredients. townandgownmag.com

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All sandwiches served with mayo and mustard on the side, romaine lettuce and sliced tomatoes. You may choose from honey wheat berry, sourdough or croissant breads and a variety of chips and brownies or cookies. Or opt for Newk’s Cake Tray featuring three varieties of your favorite homemade cakes presented on a tray the Newk’s way. The local restaurant is located at 132 Hwy 12 West, Starkville, and the phone number is 662-323-6395.

Best Framing Neblett’s Frame Outlet Carrie Copeland (middle) and her employees Brandon Wigginton and Brittney Ward.

Photo by Blake McCollum John and Carrie Copeland purchased Neblett’s in Starkville in 2009. The Mississippi based chain has been in business since l983 and Carrie began working there as a 16-year old in 1996. When the primary owner sold the business in 2005, the Copelands purchased the store. It is no longer a part of the franchise but the Copelands still work with the main Neblett’s Store in Clinton. “I feel honored to be given this award and believe we were selected to receive it because we strive to always follow the Golden Rule, to treat everyone with kindness and to do our work with diligence, courtesy, excellence in customer service and hope that in some way we can bless our customers the way God has blessed us,” Carrie said. “We have been, and are constantly, blessed by our customers. They bring us joy and laughter, tons of laughter, and I hope that we have given that back to our customers.” Hours are 10 a.m.–5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday; 10 a.m.–2 p.m. on Saturday, 448 Hwy 12 West, Suite 4, Green Oaks Plaza. For more information call 662-323-2001.

Best Vet Animal Medical Center

Animal Medical Center is a full-service veterinary medical facility, located in Starkville at 113 Highway 12 West. The professional and courteous staff seeks to provide the best possible medical, surgical and dental care for their highly-valued patients including canines and felines. Dr. Joel D. Josey and Dr. Reggie Little offer dedicated and townandgownmag.com

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compassionate care for the pets of their clients. They are committed to promoting responsible pet ownership, preventative health care and health-related educational opportunities for our clients. Hours are 7:30 a.m.–5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 – 9 a.m. on Saturday. Closed Sundays. More information is available at animalmedicalcenterofstarkville.vetsuite.com Phone: 662-323-2547 Fax: 662-3232590 .

Best Massage/Spa/Facial Vitality Skin & Spa A full-service day Spa, Vitality was opened in Starkville 2011 by Dr. Bethany Reed Hairston, a board certified dermatologist. In addition to a cosmetic studio featuring Amy Head products, the spa offers a full menu of services including customized facials, chemical peels, DermaSweep, Botox, massage, pedicure and manicure, dermaplaning, waxing, and acne treatments. Special packages are available for wedding parties, birthdays and ‘girls night out’. “I think what sets up apart is the cleanliness of the instruments,” said Kathryn Phillips, store manager. “We use medicalgrade sterilization equipment which is the same process used in a doctor’s office or a hospital. We also offer a free consult for someone with a particularly problem such as discoloration or acne.” Katherine said Vitality is excited to be the only local distributor of Amy Head Cosmetics. Offering the complete line and a fully-trained staff available to help clients design a beautiful look that fits her best. Clients may browse the products or make an appointment for a full makeover. The Bath Bar at Vitality offers hand-cut homemade soaps, a wide variety of bath salts and gels, and an assortment of bath beads, accessories such as sponges, poufs, and loofahs. A full line of skincare products from Bonnie Holmes, CeraVe, Theraplex, Obagi, and Latisse are also available. Vitality will celebrate its one-year anniversary in November. “We are very happy with the way Starkville and the surrounding residents have supported us,” said Katherine. Hours are Monday through Friday are 9 a.m.–5:30 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Vitality is located at 321 University Drive and the phone number is 662-323-5377.

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Best Eye Clinic Ford Vision Clinic

Getting the right prescription for your eyeglasses or contact lenses is an important part of good eye care. But seeing clearly is just one part of your overall eye health. It’s important to have regular eye exams with an optometrist whether or not you wear eyeglasses or contacts, and even if your vision is sharp. The eye doctor at Ford Vision Clinic believes in looking at the big picture when it comes to your eye health, so he takes the time to get to know you, your eye care history and your vision needs. Dr. Ford knows that getting the right prescription involves balancing several factors, including clear eyesight, visual efficiency and your ability to process visual information seamlessly. Whether you need a routine eye examination, an eyeglasses fitting or treatment for eye disease such as glaucoma or macular degeneration or eye surgery (such as LASIK or cataract surgery) our optometrists, including father and son team, Reagan and Lee Ford, will provide you with the best care, advice, options and follow up. With an office in Starkville, Ford Vision Clinic has been serving Mississippi’s Golden Triangle for more than 34 years. Schedule an appointment with an optometrist to see how we can help you get the best prescription for your eyes. The clinic is located at 706F Hwy 12 West. Phone: 662-3230571. For emergencies call 662- 822-2020.

Best Hair Dresser Jessie Kent at Allure Salon Photo by Claire Massey

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“It is such a huge honor to have been selected as part of the ‘best of ” for 2012,” said Jessica Kent of Allure Salon. “I have been part this salon family for more than a year, and am so blessed by all my coworkers and clients. It is such a joy to work with each individual that sits in my chair to create their best look and I always try to give my absolute best.” She said that becoming a hair stylist has always been her dream and her passion. “Since I was very young, I knew this was the career I wanted. Even as a child I ‘practiced’ on all my dolls and

occasionally on my baby brother,” she said. In 2007 she entered Vaughn’s Beauty education classes. Upon completion she began to practice her craft and has had more than three years of professional experience. Allure Salon is located at 100 Starr Ave. and the phone number is 622-323-7799.

Best Dentist Wesley M. Ferguson, DMD Dr. Ferguson and his staff take great pride in providing the highest quality, comprehensive dental care to patients of all ages in a relaxed, engaging, fun, yet professional setting. We offer a wide variety of services including routine cleaning, fillings, crowns, bridges, root canals, and implant restorations. Dr. Ferguson has a particular interest in cosmetic and implant dentistry offering specialty cosmetic services such as veneers, all porcelain crowns, and in-office whitening, as well as many others. A native of Senatobia, he graduated from Mississippi State University with a bachelor degree in microbiology and attended dental school at the University of Mississippi Medical Center. After graduating in 2005, he completed an advanced education in general residency at the University of South Carolina. He opened his practice in Starkville in 2005, and takes great pride in providing the absolute highest quality dental care to his patients, and has a special interest in implant and cosmetic dentistry. Dr. Ferguson is supported by an outstanding staff which is equally committed to providing outstanding patient care to all patients. They are active in a variety of continuing education courses to broaden and sharpen their knowledge and skills. Dr. Ferguson’s office is located at 504 Academy Road and his phone number is 662-323-2876

Best Medical Clinic Laird Clinic of Family Medicine

Three physicians with a combined total of 73 years of experience in family medicine are currently practicing at the Laird Clinic on Hospital Road. They include Dr. Henry L. Edmondson, MD (24 years), Dr. John Hollister, MD (29 years), and Dr. Everett C. McKibben, MD (23 years). “We are blessed with the physicians that we have and their dedication to their patients,” said Lynn Carr, office manager. “We find it a great honor to be voted the Best Medical Clinic by our community. “ “Along with our dedicated physicians we also are blessed with employees with many years of service at our clinic,” continued Lynn. “I have been blessed to have worked with The Laird Clinic for over 24 years, and share the feeling of “FAMILY” that we have in our practice. The clinic was founded in the 1970s by the late Dr. Kermit D. Laird in the 1970s. Hours are 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Monday through Friday and walk-ins are accepted.

Best Pharmacy Walgreens

2012

Walgreens immunization-trained pharmacists can administer a wide range of CDC-recommended immunizations and vaccines for adolescents, adults and seniors. The three pharmacists on staff can make personalized vaccine recommendations, bill your insurance company directly and work with your primary care provider to obtain all the necessary forms and updates to your file. The local store also offers drive-in convenience for pick up or delivering prescriptions. Among the vaccines administered at the Starkville location includes Shingles, Pneumonia, Influenza, Tetanus, Diptheria, and Whooping Cough. Medicare Part B and D plans are accepted. In addition to filling prescriptions, the staff pharmacists provide medication compounding. Pharmacy hours are 8 a.m. - 10 p.m. Monday through Friday; 9 a.m.-6 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m.–6 p.m. on Sunday. The store is located at 220 Highway 12 W and the phone numbers if 662-323-2129.

Best Cell Phone Carrier C Spire Wireless Formerly known as Cellular South Inc, C Spire. It is the eighth largest wireless provider in the U. S. C Spire has approximately 900,000 customers in Mississippi, the Memphis Metropolitan area, the Florida Panhandle, parts of Alabama including Mobile and Rome, Georgia. On September 20, 2011 Cellular South, Inc. filed a trademark application for the C Spire Wireless name and two days later announced that it would market its services under the C Spire Wireless brand. C Spire Wireless is owned by the holding company Telapex, Inc. which also owns Telepak Networks, Inc. It is a provider of broadband internet and phone service, as well as several smaller Mississippi telecoms. The local office is located at 823B Highway 12 W. Call 662323-4680.

Best Pet Groomer Shaggy Hound “We are an all breed grooming shop with supervised doggie day care,” explained Kathy Massey, owner. “At Shaggy Hound you will find caring certified grooming professionals who are experienced and understand your pet’s needs.” Shaggy Hound, located in Starkville, offers expert dog grooming for all breeds and creative mixed breed cuts. It also offers puppy cuts, lion cuts, hand drying and hand scissoring “Shaggy Hound delivers the best and most responsible doggie daycare so you can rest assured that your dog is having a wonderful time every day,” said Massey. “There’s room to run

around, lots of human attention and plenty of canine companionship. Toys and treats are available and the dogs play and interact in a cageless environment.” When a dog is delivered to Shaggy Hound for daycare, he or she will be integrated into the supervised play group that suits them best. This is done carefully and at a pace within the dog’s comfort level. Play groups are based on factors such as size and temperament. Small dogs are separated from large dogs. There is a large fenced yard and as well as inside play areas with TVs, climate control, beds and toys. Massey said doggie care is especially helpful for owners who work long hours. Day care is available Monday through Friday. The facility is located at 903 Louisville Street and the phone number is 662-338-9400.

Best Realtor Teresa Brooks at Prudential Starkville Properties Teresa has been a realtor in Starkville for 21 years, qualifying as Top Producer at Prudential Starkville Properties for several years in a row. Teresa’s other awards include President’s Circle, Chairman’s Circle, and The Legend Award. She attributes her success to her genuine desire to help people locate the perfect home for their needs. Teresa has been recognized by The Wall Street Journal several years running for being among the Top Prudential Real Estate agents nationwide. She was also voted by her peers as Golden Triangle Association of Realtors’ 2011 Realtor of the Year, the highest honor a realtor member can receive. She may be reached at Prudential Starkville Properties, 100 Russell Street, Suite 19. Phone numbers 662-324-0037, ext. 108 office; 888-3240037; ext. 108 toll free office and 662-324-1774 (fax). n townandgownmag.com

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Shopping Voted by Town and Gown Magazine Readers Written by Shea Allen

Best Children’s Clothing Sprout Baby Home Garden A newborn to the Starkville retail marketing, just opening in January 2012, Sprout Baby Home Garden has solid roots in the area. Locally owned by Rick and Rhonda Underwood (Rick’s family is the owner of Rick’s Furniture, which has been in the Starkville area for years), Sprout is not just a baby clothing store. They offer everything you need to make sure baby, nursery and home look cute as a button. “We aren’t just a baby store,” Owner Rhonda Underwood said. “We have items for the whole home experience, including home decor, accent furniture, and slipcovers for sofas and gliders.” Though new moms, and moms-to-be can find a wide variety of baby needs, the Underwoods say some of their biggest sellers are the always in style Paty Inc. Layette Sets, the hip mom must-have Kalencom Diaper Bags, and the ultra plush Pom Pom at Home Baby Linens. The Underwoods are thrilled to receive the Best Of award for Best Children’s Clothing, they say, and are looking forward to continuing to serve the Starkville community. 24

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2012 Best Shoe Store B. Davis Shoes Louisville native and recent Mississippi State graduate Elizabeth Ragan worked throughout college as the manager of B. Davis Shoes and was given the opportunity to take over management earlier this year. Just a few months into her new position, Elizabeth is elated to receive the honor of being the Best Shoe Store in Starkville. “I grew up 30 minutes away, so Starkville has always been a second home to me,” Elizabeth said. “I’m just proud to be able to serve the community and provide them with great, quality shoes.” B. Davis Shoes specializes in top-quality brands such as Hobo, Chaco, Merrel, Clark, ASA, Earthies, Soft and Sun-San for men, women and children. When a customer comes in, Elizabeth and her knowledgeable, friendly staff take the time to measure their foot and make sure their shoes fit them properly. “We take special care with the fit and quality of our shoes,” Elizabeth said. “We really appreciate being named Starkville’s best shoe store and we hope to earn that title again next year and for years to come.”

“Libby Story puts more of a focus on styling an entire outfit rather than putting the emphasis on a single item,” Store Manager Letty Stricklin said. “We like to lay everything out in complete outfits so that our customers can get a good sense of what to pair certain items with and what pieces really look good together.” Libby Story is locally owned by Libby and John Hunter McRight, who also have another store in Ridgeland. After moving to their new, large location on Main Street, Libby Story was able to greatly expand its inventory and offer a broader array of clothing and accessories. One thing Libby Story patrons may not know about their favorite boutique is that the fun, vintage furniture with the great distressed look the merchandise sits on is also for sale. “It feels really great to be named Best Vintage Shop by the people of Starkville because we really try to put a vintage flare on everything we do, so it feels good to people are noticing and seeing us in that way.”

Best Gift Shop Aspen Bay Candles

Best Vintage Shop Libby Story

For women needing to find fashion with a vintage flare, look no further than Libby Story. Outfitting the women of Starkville since 2008, Libby Story finds a unique balance between trendy and vintage and features all the must-have looks for each season from tops and dresses, to shoes and purses.

Photo by Lizzie Smith

Photo by Lizzie Smith Aspen Bay Candles was founded as Candles by Bert in North Carolina by Roberta Man in 1978. Since then Aspen Bay was purchased by Tom Reed and has continued to master the art of candle making and offer vintage home accessories, signature fragrance perfumes and assortment of gifts for any age. Popular for their famous candle, Volcano, Aspen Bay has seasonal and classic collections as well as five other collections to keep each customer coming back for more. Aspen Bay products are high quality and upscale according to Aspen Bay website. All candles are hand-poured and made in Starkville. According to Aspen Bay's website, not only is Aspen Bay known for their candles, but they are conscious about the environment and use recycled glass jars and recycled steel lids. Visit aspenbaycandles.com or call 800-819-7631 for more information. townandgownmag.com | october 2012 25

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2012

Antique Shop Boardtown Trading Post

Boardtown Trading Post has been the place for Starkvillian’s to go in their search for collectibles, antiques and rare finds since 1994. “We do a really good job of carrying things for all ages,” Owner Jimmy Cole said of his vast and varied inventory. For those looking to find unique items, the Boardtown Trading Post will not disappoint. Cole says some of his biggest sellers are furniture for a variety of decades, hats, purses, jewelry and “odds and ends”. In addition to housing an assortment of collectibles and antiques, Boardtown Trading Post is the trusted name in trophies and engraving.

Best Women’s Clothing L.A. Green Boutique

Since she was 8-years-old, Mississippi State graduate Lauren Ann Cooper has been making her own jewelry. She continued as a wholesaler in 2008, but her husband was always encouraging her to open her own store. Hesitant, Lauren Ann said she’d consider it if the perfect opportunity became available, which is exactly what happened one day in 2011 when she and her husband were going out for frozen yogurt. “We pulled up to the yogurt shop and right next door was a for sale sign, and I knew this was the sign I was looking for,” she said. L.A. Green opened its doors in August 2011 featuring the latest in women’s fashion and accessories and even some of Lauren Ann’s hand-made jewelry.

“If I didn’t make the jewelry, someone else in Mississippi did,” she said. “I like to support local people and I like to buy items for my store that have a good cause behind them.” More than just the owner, Lauren Ann is in her store helping customers put the perfect outfit together. And when she’s not there, she’s visiting all the local trade shows and going to market to stay abreast on the all cutting edge fashions. She also does personal shopping for her customers. “We don’t just sell clothes,” Lauren Ann said. “We like to get to know our customers so that we can pick out an outfit that really fits their personality.” When Lauren Ann can’t be in the store, she has hired associates who are in the fashion program in MSU to ensure her customers still get the best service regardless of whose shift it is. “I’m so humbled to be named the Best Women’s Clothing store,” she said. “I’m just ecstatic to be doing what I’m doing and serving the Starkville community.”

Best Tattoo Parlor Vintage Tattoo Co.

Serving Starkville since Fall 2011, Vintage Tattoo Co. has become the trusted name in tattoos and piercing. Don’t let the name fool you, the only thing vintage about them is their attitude toward great customer service and their desire to be the trusted name in body art. “We greatly enjoy serving the Starkville community with the best service at the best price in a clean, professional environment,” Manager Chris Callicot said. Located at 303 Dr Martin Luther King Junior Drive East, Vintage Tattoo Co. is open six days a week, closed on Sundays, and features a friendly and professional staff ready to serve those seeking a one-of-a kind piece of body art or a body piercing.

Best Thrift Store Palmer Home for Children When you make a purchase from the Palmer Thrift Store, you can be proud that 100% of the proceeds are going to help children in need in the Golden Triangle. The Palmer Home for Children has been making a difference in the lives of children infant through college for 125 years. Named the Best Thrift Store in Starkville, the Palmer Thrift Store receives the majority of its merchandise from donations throughout the community, but all items have to pass a strict inspection before it can go out on the show room floor. “We try to put out the best merchandise at fair prices and offer a wide variety to our customers,” Manager Mike Montgomery said. “It feels great to be recognized by the people of Starkville for the job we do to serve the community and the children.” The Palmer Thrift Store is the place to go in Starkville to find bargains on furniture, clothing, electronics, art and more. To donate your gentle used household items, call the Palmer Home donation line at 662-328-7940. All donations are tax deductible and help further the mission to help area children. townandgownmag.com

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Best Book Store The Campus Book Mart

When Joe Brown was teaching at Mississippi State University in 1971, there was no bookstore in the Starkville area to serve the students, so he and his wife Jimmie decided to open a small establishment selling trade books to students in the heart of downtown Starkville. “We really filled a need in the community because the students didn’t have to go to another town to get their trade books,” Joe said. “I think we really filled a great service to our students when we did that.”

Photo by Claire Massey Joe remembers the first year that they were open, they sold out of every book they had in the store, which made them realize they were on to something bigger than just trade books. They began to stock a variety of college course books and opened a second location on the East side of campus to be more easily accessible to their customers. “Over the years we’ve grown from more than just a college bookstore,” Joe said. “We offer everything from text books and supplies to best-selling novels, gifts and bulldog apparel.” In addition to offering a wide variety of merchandise, the Browns realize the importance of keeping their costs low and pride themselves on “being the lowest priced bookstore in town,” Joe said. “We love our customers, and we really try to be friendly, but just as important as that is, cost is important to our customers and I think we’ve fit that niche pretty well.”

Best Hardware Store Bell Building Supply, Inc. Bell Building Supply officially opened in 1995, but for many locals, the building on the corner of Lampkin and Montgomery in Starkville has always been a hardware store. Bell Building Supply owner Harry Bell worked at Fleming Building Supply in high school in the same building that is now Bell Building and throughout college until he took ownership in 1995 and 28

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changed the name. “We furnish materials for complete home construction,” said Foley Bell Holditch, Harry’s daughter and vice president of finance for Bell Building. “We have all the resources you would need to build a home. We have everything from wood to windows and everyday items like tape and screwdrivers.” The Bells, who also own Simply Home and Thyme, are honored to be named Best Hardware Store in Starkville. “It’s very gratifying to have our customer base to name us as the best hard ware store in Starkville, we’re very appreciative and very proud,” Foley said. “I think it’s our employees and their customer service that set us a part. We strive to be the best and provide them with the best, and I really think that is the key.”

Best Place to Buy Jewelry Jeweler’s Bench Starkville’s prime jewel is the Jeweler’s Bench located at 124 Hwy 12 West and has been in business since 1984. With co/ owners Barry and Melissa Nixon and combined 60 years experience of their staff at the work bench valuables can be trusted at the Jeweler’s Bench. The Jeweler’s Bench specializes in custom jewelry, jewelry repair, has the largest inventory within 100 miles of Starkville and has two professional jewelers on staff who will make sure your satisfied when you leave the store. Next time you need a special gem for special someone visit the Jeweler’s Bench in Starkville. Open Monday-Friday, 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. and conveniently located next door to Piggly Wiggly. For more information call 662-323-0938.

Best Sports Clothing Store Sports Center Since opening in 2010, Sports Center has been the one-stop shop for Starkville sports enthusiasts. They feature a full line of athletic gear, including apparel and equipment for football, soccer, tennis, softball, baseball and more, and everything an outdoorsman could need, including an extensive selection of hand guns, rifles and shot guns, hunting equipment and apparel and everything a fisherman would need for a day on the water such as rods, reels, bait and other accessories, and camping equipment. Sports Center is the place for T-shirt printing needs as they offer full screening printing – perfect for little league team jerseys or specially made T-shirts for family and friends. They also have an indoor archery range for the novice and advanced. Sports Center features brands such as The North Face, Carhart, Cabella, Nike, Adidas, Patagonia, and much more. Mississippi State University game gear for children, women and men can be found at Sports Center. Along with cowboy boot selections with many styles for the whole family including other shoes like sneakers and outdoor activity shoes. The ‘Sports Center’ is located at 311 Highway 12 West in Starkville.

2012

Best Men’s Clothing George Sherman Clothier’s

George Sherman Clothier’s has been named the Best Men’s Clothing store in the Best of 2012 in Starkville and the surrounding area. Known for superb service from him and his staff below (right to left) Luke Vaughn, Michael Sherman, George Sherman, Trey Templeton and John Kyle Hewlett, George Sherman Clothier’s customers leave pleased and well dressed. Not only does George Sherman Clothier’s offer suits in a variety of styles and prices, he has patented the George Sherman Bulldog for MSU-inspired shirts, pants, ties and bow ties. Next time stop by and see the friendly staff and leave with a guaranteed southern classy outfit for any occasion.

Photo by Lizzie Smith

Best Furniture Shop Rick’s Furniture

Rick’s Furniture is the name in quality furniture for the entire home and also name the Best Furniture in the Shopping category in the Best of 2012.

Family-owned and locally-owned, Rick’s specializes in living room, bedroom, home entertainment, dining room, and home office furniture as well as top-quality mattresses like Tempurpedic, Sealy, Symbol Mattress and Corsicana Bedding. Rick’s offers brand names such as Artisan by Furniture Direct, Ashley Furniture, Coaster, Flexteel, Franklin Furniture, Largo and many more. Visit them at ricksfurnitureoasis.com, or shop in person at 1091 Stark Road in Starkville. Rick’s Furniture is open 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Saturday.

Best Flower Shop The Flower Company The Flower Company in Starkville has been named the Best Flower Shop in the Shopping category for the Best of 2012. The Flower Company specializes in traditional and contemporary floral designs. Haze Allsup, owner of The Flower ComPhoto by Claire Massey pany, and his staff also offer decoration for parties, special occasions or holidays. Located in College Park at 100 Russell St. For more information on ready-made decorations, appointments, or inside and out home holiday decorations call 662-320-9040. n

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Arts & Entertainment

Voted by Town and Gown Magazine Readers Written by Susan Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Bryan

Best Bartender Ben Hodge at Old Venice Pizza Co.

Photo by Lizzie Smith

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Best Beer Selection Halfway House

Best Live Music Venue Dave’s Dark Horse Tavern

The tavern is known for its live music, a feature it has offered customers six nights a week since 1995. “The tavern atmosphere is very intimate with the musicians practically surrounded by our patrons,” says owner Dave Hood. “The performers love playing here, and the crowd is always generous with their applause.” The tavern has no problem booking live entertainment. We are so blessed to be in a region with so much musical talent. It ranges from Oscar winner for best song, Ryan Bingham to Grammy nominated Afroman, and Starkville legend Bill Cooke plays the first Thursday of every month.” For more information, call 662-324-3316.

Best Family Attraction Mississippi State University

Nate Knesly and Kenneth Toler, co-owners at Halfway House, situated between Starkville Main Street and the Cotton District saw a dream and chased after it. Knesly, with 10 years of experience in restaurant service, and Toler decided to make Halfway House an atmosphere they would enjoy – a beer and socialize as well as tailor toward the business/adult crowd of Starkville. Halfway House offers 40 draft beer selections and averages about seven high-gravity beer rotating all drafts every one to two weeks. Customers can asks for certain beers to be on tap and Halfway House will try to have those next time you walk in depending on availability. “We focus our efforts of quality beer and quality food at Halfway House,” Knesly said. For more information visit halfwayhousestarkvillems.com or 662-323-3888.

Best Place to Take an Out-of-Towner The Veranda “The comments we receive from out-of-town guests run along the lines of ‘Oh, this place is awesome,’ ‘I wish you’d open one where we live’ and ‘ I’ve traveled all over the U.S., and this is the best steak I’ve ever eaten,” says chef/owner Jay Yates. “I’d just like to say to our wonderful Starkville community, thanks! Thanks for allowing me to put down roots, start my family and open my business nearly in the shadow of Davis-Wade stadium. I feel like we’re all very blessed here in Starkville and at MSU.” For more information, call 662-323-1231. 32

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Whether Starkville residents or visitors are looking for sports, arts or memories, Mississippi State University has something for everyone. Take a walk among tailgating fans before a MSU football game, and folks are sure to run into families and friends of all ages. “We know any time we come to campus, we’ll always run into people we know,” says Will Abrams, a self-described Dawg diehard. If you’re not a football fan, no problem! How about catching a Bulldog baseball or basketball game? And for those who want to share a slice of Starkville, there’s always the MSU cheese store!

Best Round-the-Corner Stroll Starkville Main Street

A nod to the past is alive and well in downtown Starkville with the help of Main Street, known as the heart of the area’s historic district. As one Starkville resident described it, “Main Street is a great area to walk around and shop.” Main Street features several retail stores, including locally made Aspen Bay Candles as well as local bookstore The Book Mart, Restaurant Tyler, Mugshots and Old Venice.

Best Late Night Eats Taco Bell

When folks want a late-night, inexpensive snack, they head to Taco Bell, a fast-food staple in Starkville. There’s no dress code at the drive-through, a must-stop spot for cash-strapped students after a night of cheering, partying - or even studying! “That place is packed during finals,” says MSU grad Lindsay Buchanan. The menu, with many items costing less than a buck, never grows stale, according to repeat customers. And what’s their latest favorite hand-held craving? It’s the Dorito taco, a beefy treat wrapped in a nacho cheese chip-flavored shell. Located on Highway 12 in Starkville.

2012 Best Outdoor Venue Fountain at Starkville’s Cotton District The fountain at the corner of University Drive and Maxwell streets is a shared “entertainment” venue, says Brian Kelley, who owns a nearby restaurant. “Local musicians will usually play there a couple of nights each week.” The venue’s popularity is one of the draws to the historic district. Kelley praises Dan Camp, founder of the Cotton District, for his “unique vision for the area.”

Photo by Divian Conner townandgownmag.com

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Town&Gown

Best of 2012 a azine

Best Patio Bar Bin 612 Come early if you want to grab a seat at one of the most popular hang-outs in the historic Cotton District. As summer eases into fall, wrought iron chairs on the Bin 612 patio fill up fast. “Our patrons are generally able to walk to the restaurant, enjoy a great meal along with a glass of wine on our patio while taking part in some of the best people watching you can find anywhere,” says co-owner Brian Kelley. “We are very fortunate to have our loyal Bin 612 customer base that greatly appreciates that when they eat with us, they are supporting the local area farmers and our community as a whole,” he said. “A big thank you goes out to Starkville and MSU communities for continuing to support us in eating local.” For more information, call 662-324-6126.

Best Sports Bar Buffalo Wild Wings

Photo by Divian Conner If you can’t be at the game, watching it on a big-screen TV is the next best thing, say customers at Buffalo Wild Wings, a Starkville sports bar and restaurant with the motto “Wings. Beer. Sports.” Add a pitcher of beer and a basket of spicy wings (or mild for those who can’t handle the heat), and you’ve got the makings of another fun night at this popular spot at 703 Spring St. For more information, call (662) 324-4494. 34

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Best Place to Dance Rick’s Cafe

Rick’s Cafe has been serving the Starkville and MSU community since 1994, says owner Rick Welch. “We pride ourselves in the wide range of entertainment that we bring to the area.” The night spot for those 18 and older (must be 21 to drink alcohol) offers a variety of music, mainly based on customer requests and trends. “We want to give a big thank you to everyone that has supported Rick’s Cafe over the years,” Welch said. “We look forward to continuing to bring the best entertainment we can in the future.” For more information, call (662) 323-7425.

Best Teen Hangout Bulldog lanes, LLC.

Photo by Claire Massey Bulldog Lanes, LLC. is the place to be whether you are a young child or adult and everyone can have a good time bowling. Teens are limited to teen hangouts in Starkville and the surrounding area and Bulldog Lanes seems to be where the teen population is migrating to. Bulldog Lanes, LLC. is the winner of the Best Teen Hangout according to Town and Gown magazine voters. Located on 400 Highway 12 in Starkville it is open Monday-Saturday 10-1 a.m. and Sunday 11:30 a.m.-11 p.m. Bulldog Lanes, LLC. is not just a bowling alley. There have archade games, pool tables, a cafe and offers party options. The bowling alley is great for college students as well with their specials on certain night for those who are 21. For more information call 662-323-2892.

2012

Best Package Store Corky’s Package Store

Service with a smile is one of the many selling points for this package store at 632 Highway 12 East. The wine and spirits store has been in business since the late 1970s. “We really appreciate all the people who voted for us. We’re trying to do the best we can,” says owner Louis Beene. “We have a lot of customers, but we try to get to know as many as we can.” The key to Corky’s success? “Good service and good variety,” Beene said. The store is open from 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday-Saturday. For more information, call 662-323-2562.

Best Art Museum Oktibbeha County Heritage Museum Visitors are never in short supply at the award-winning museum dedicated to preserving a past way of life in Oktibbeha County. While it’s technically not an “art” museum, art is a personal perspective, says volunteer coordinator Diana Crabtree. Its popularity comes from “bringing people together with the past.” Museum features range from photo displays and hands-on activities for kids to outdoor settings promoting water conservation and recycling. “The different exhibits tell the ‘stories’ of our past,” says Wanda Thorne, Friends of the Museum president. A trip back in time appeals to all ages, Crabtree says. “Local supporters love to come in and bring a visiting relative or friend and show them something that has an impact in their life.” The museum is open from 1-4 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday. For more information, call 662-323-0211.

Best Twitter Presence Dave’s Dark Horse Tavern

Entertainment news travels fast, courtesy of @davesdarkhorse, a Twitter presence since 2009. “We signed on to Twitter on the recommendation of a neighbor. Not knowing much about it, we’ve slowly evolved our approach,” said tavern owner Dave Hood. With the help of his staff, “which makes it more personal,” the tavern averages about 10 tweets a day. “Now we try to mix in daily specials with free giveaways and entertainment news. Twitter has definitely become a major marketing tool for the Dark Horse.” For more information, call 662-324-3316.

Best Date Night Restaurant The Veranda “There is absolutely no average age of romancers at the Veranda,” says chef/owner Jay Yates, regarding the restaurant’s intimate popularity. “I’ve seen them all - from teens on first dates (so nervous!) to wonderful couples celebrating their 50th anniversary.” What makes date night memorable at the “V”, as loyal customers like to call it, is the special feel that is achieved when you know you won’t have to worry about the quality of your experience,” Yates said. “A couple can focus on each other in a quiet, cozy atmosphere, share a nice glass of wine and just go to that place all couples know about.” For more information, call 662-323-1231. n

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{InsideOut

Accomplishing More Together Than Alone

The Old Main District Clock on Main Street in Downtown Starkville. 36 10

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Photo by Lizzie Smith | october october 2012

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Starkville Downtown Main Street in Fall 2011.

uite a few folks who have visited Starkville and MSU in recent years have said the area is bursting at the seams, and the numbers seem to support p ort that conclusion: in 1990, the population of Starkville stood at 18,458, based on figures from the U.S. Census Bureau. By 2010 it had jumped to 23,588. During the same period, enrollment at MSU increased from 12,818 to 19,644 and is now over 20,000. Population growth in the city and economic progress for both town and campus wouldn’t seem possible without cooperation between the two entities. “Starkville is much different now than it was 20 years ago,” said Mayor Parker Wiseman, who graduated from Starkville High in 1999 and MSU in 2003. “As of the 2010 census, Starkville is one of the 15 largest cities in Mississippi. It remains one of the fastest growing cities in the state. Our population growth has resulted in increased commercial activity and increased opportunity for our citizens. I expect that trend to continue, and that is exciting.” It wasn’t always this way. Dr. Frank Davis, a resident of Starkville for nearly 50 years and Professor Emeritus in the MSU Entomology Department, was involved in local politics a decade ago and had grave concerns about the city’s long-term economic future. “I served on the Starkville Board of Aldermen from September 2000 to June 2005. I also served as Vice-Mayor,” Davis said. “Perhaps our best completed project was restoring a dead downtown Main Street. This was at a time when some Mississippi towns suffered tremendously from decaying downtowns. A good example is Greenville, where theirs is pretty much in ruins. I did not want Starkville to suffer this fate. “A big dealer from Memphis gave the city the property where the town’s first Walmart was built on Highway 12. It’s now a bowling alley, and we sold it to them for a million dollars on a motion I made. We decided to use $800,000 to revitalize our downtown. I worked hard with our city engineer to develop a suitable plan for redoing Main Street and building new walks with areas

designed for planting trees and seasonal flowers. “Before we started, there might have been two cars parked on Main Street after 5:30 p.m. Now you have a hard time finding a parking spot from 8 a.m. to midnight. I think this project may be the best one to have occurred in many years. It finished on time and did not cost the city taxpayers a single dollar, if I remember right.” Just as Starkville expands in all directions despite the struggling nationwide economy, MSU is doing the same thing. “With regard to growth, you don’t have to look far in any direction on campus to see the signs of progress,” said MSU President Dr. Mark Keenum. “This fall, two state-of-the-art residence halls were opened, adding nearly 800 beds. We are also planning a new dining facility on the south side of campus to meet our growing needs. “Work is underway now on historic Lee Hall, and plans are moving forward to construct a building strictly for classrooms to meet the growing demand for instructional space. The Leo Seal Jr. Football Complex will be completed by January, and we awarded bids in August to begin a major renovation of Davis Wade Stadium at Scott Field. “MSU continues to be the flagship research university in our state, and our research initiatives are advancing scientific discovery in wide-ranging disciplines as well as boosting job creation and economic development efforts in the Golden Triangle and throughout our state. “University R&D has helped bring more than $2 billion in capital investment and more than 7,000 direct and indirect new jobs to Mississippi during the past decade, with much of it located here in the Golden Triangle. Also, MSU carried out over 300 projects last year with existing industries in the state to help them improve productivity and profitability.” Wiseman and Keenum both point toward a sense of cooperation between the city and university that benefit the entire community. townandgownmag.com

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Photo courtesy of Greater Starkville Development Partnership.

BY JOE LEE

Photo by Claire Massey

Davis Wade Stadium and M Club below Mississippi State sign towers over “The Junction”.

“A couple of years ago the leadership of the city, MSU, Oktibbeha County, and the local business community made a concerted effort to establish a regular dialogue to help facilitate collaboration,” Wiseman said. “On the first Friday of every month, the leaders of those organizations get together and have a very loose discussion about mutually beneficial opportunities. “Then, every quarter, we hold a press event to report our progress together over the past quarter. That series has proved productive. It has resulted in progress on issues ranging from economic development projects to transportation issues. For instance, this fall MSU and Starkville began a joint effort to expand the university’s mass transit program into the community. We expect to expand the transit program further into Starkville next fall.” Likewise, MSU has a wide range of programs designed to aid the city with financial support, business and industry consultation, and volunteer opportunities for MSU students. The MSU Crisis Action Team works closely with the Oktibbeha County Emergency Management Agency and has working agreements with the Starkville police and fire departments. The MSU campus shuttle service delivers students from the Starkville Sportsplex to campus and run nonstop between downtown locations and MSU on game days. “Operation of the Thad Cochran Research and Economic Development Park is an important partnership with the commutownandgownmag.com

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nity, providing a key economic development resource,” Keenum said. “The Mississippi Horse Park is another partnership among the university, city and county. Its multi-faceted programming includes rodeos, horse shows, garden expos, and concerts and other events which offer entertainment options and stimulate the local economy. “MSU students and the City of Starkville have worked together to bring Bulldog Bash and other major entertainment events to the downtown area. The Famous Maroon Band leads the Starkville Christmas Parade. The Starkville Convention and Visitors Bureau organizes a series of downtown fall events in conjunction with MSU football weekends and organizes tours of Mississippi State points of interest throughout the year. “Our Mitchell Memorial Library works in collaboration with the Starkville Public Library. The U.S. Grant Presidential Library also has a partnership with the Starkville Library and has jointly hosted lectures and displayed Grant memorabilia.” Starkville resident and MSU employee Todd Hall went to MSU three decades ago and is raising his family here. “Back then it was almost like ‘going to town’ when I’d go into Starkville,” said Hall, a Jackson native who lived in Hightower Hall while an undergrad. “And by the end of the decade, the downtown area seemed like a dying location. It didn’t look viable long-term at all.

“Now there are many good restaurants, and Main Street, especially, looks great and there’s lots of pedestrian traffic. And when you go down University Drive to campus, it’s almost like the city and university has merged because of all the new construction and improvements.” “Starkville has benefitted greatly in recent years from rising enrollment at MSU and the growing profile of SEC towns in the sports media world,” Wiseman said. “Mississippi State is far and away the largest industry in Starkville. When it grows as rapidly as it has over the past five years, it affects us in many ways. Additional students, faculty, and staff make Starkville larger and more prosperous. “It seems as though the media profile of the Southeastern Conference has exploded over the last decade. A major part of the identity of the SEC is the southern culture settings offered by college towns throughout the south. Being associated with that media explosion certainly offers us immense opportunities to raise our community profile that we otherwise wouldn’t know.” That’s certainly true of the many mentions Starkville and MSU has gotten in recent years through ESPN telecasts. The huge tailgating boom during home football weekends has attracted a lot of attention from the network, and regular mentions of Starkville eateries such as The Little Dooey are made on the air. Many people who used to make day-trips to campus to catch football games are bringing their families these days and making a weekend of it. “Starkville is a great place to live and raise a family,” Keenum said. “What is good for the community is good for MSU and vice versa, and we have a firm and active commitment to continue to build on that fact. Athletic and cultural activities on campus complement city- and county-sponsored events for young and old and strengthen the partnership.” “Because of the university being here and so many employees and faculty members buying homes, we (in Starkville) seem to have been shielded somewhat from the housing issues the rest of the country has gone through,” Hall said. “But you can’t have one without the other. If you had a dingy town nobody wanted to visit, MSU would be a lot different.” n

Photo by Lizzie Smith

Starkville Downtown Main Street store fronts including: The Book Mart and Old Venice Pizza Co.

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The Colorful History

of Starkville Coca-Cola

BY EMILY JONES | PHOTOGRAPHY SUBMITTED AND BY LIZZIE SMITH

he Coca-Cola Bottling Company opened for business in Starkville on June 1, 1928, which qualifies it as Starkvilleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s longest running business. Still operated by the founding family, it is a shining example of the American dream which demands hard work and ingenuity, not to mention a keen business sense. The success of the company in indelibly tied to the colorful history of Coca-Cola in the US. In 1886, it became the first soft drink to hit the market when it was introduced at a soda fountain in an Atlanta drug store. Originally sold as a tonic, the product was slow to catch on, but when it did, it took off like wildfire. Between 1890 and 1900, the sales increased a whopping 4000 percent!

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The driving force behind the local company was its founder, Carsie C. Clark who began bottling soda water in 1903 from the rear of a drug store in Martin, Tennessee. He was born in Calloway County, Kentucky in 1882 where he learned his trade from his father who also operated two small distilleries prior to the turn of the last century. When he heard about Coca-Cola, he wasted no time snapping up franchises for several locations in North Mississippi. His family recalls that he made his earliest deliveries in a wheelbarrow before purchasing a small mule and a wagon. Before long the products would be delivered across the region by rail. He and his wife, Erin, eventually moved to West Point, where he would buy out his original partners.

Starkville Coca-Cola Bottling Co. on Washington-Lampkin Corner 1926.

Clark opened the West Point Coca-Cola Bottling Company in February, 1907. As the popularity of the beverage exploded, so did C. C. Clark’s holdings. In 1908, he purchased franchises in the Tennessee counties of Weekly and Obion and the Kentucky counties of Fulton, Hickman, and Carlisle all the while expanding his Coca-Cola operations in Mississippi. In 1928, Clark opened the Starkville plant with the construction of a modern new facility at the corner of Washington and Lampkin Streets. Today, it is home to T. E. Lott & Company. The art deco design and internal operations were considered state of the art for that period. Each soft drink bottle was personally inspected under a high-powered electric lamp with a technically trained expert who gave his approval before each bottle was ever passed to the trucks for delivery. Second an In those days, the glass bottles would be imprinted with Mrs. W. D.dCthird generation ow ne lark, C. C. Y oung, W. Drship, O.V. Clark, Jr, the name of the town in which it was bottled, and custom- around 1960. H . Clark, Alb ert Clark, Carold Clark, Jr., Dal C ers considered it good luck to get a bottled stamped with an arole Clark la and H. N. Crk, Jr., lark “out of town” location. In addition to Coca-Cola there were nine other flavors of soda water bottled at the all- electric plant, each receiving the same room was a cold-water tank and electrically operated filtering machine. The water used in the careful quality controls. Adjoining the manufacturing room was the stock room where manufacture of a carbonated drink was kept at a certain even a reserve stock of bottles and supplies were kept. Upstairs where temperature to insure the proper mixture and the retention of the pleasing and healthful carbonated beverage. the syrup was mixed was a closely guarded secret. Also in this townandgownmag.com

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The plant in those early days was under the management of Carl Hilliard, who had nine years experience in the bottling business which was still in its infancy. Mr. B. E. Thomas was the road salesman and he covered the territory outside Starkville which included Longview, Bradley, Adaton, Maben, Mathiston, Eupora, Walthall and Belfontaine and all points in between. “In placing those in charge here who would make Starkville their home, Mr. Clark endeavored to bring to our community the highest type of citizenship,” noted Ruth Morgan in a history she prepared for the Starkville Daily News. “They were all men and women that he deemed would be assets to our churches and social life as well as the industrial life of Starkville.” Jim Donahou, who has worked for the company for 41 years, attributed at least part of the success of the company to the familylike atmosphere fostered among its work force.

“The Clarks are just great people to work for,” said Donahou who is employed in the sales and marketing department. “They’re more than bosses, they’re friends and we often go fishing together.” In December 1931, C. C. Clark, Inc. was incorporated to serve as the umbrella for the growing number of companies spawned by its founder and destined to be carried forward by his four children, and ultimately their children and grandchildren who run the company today. In 1949, at a meeting of more than a thousand Coca-Cola bottlers in the Waldorf Astoria in New York City, C. C. Clark was presented a scroll on the 50th anniversary of his Coca-Cola contract. This was the second time he had received national recognition for his pioneer work in the industry. He would die two years later at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, N. Y. “One hundred percent of the stock is still owned by descendants of Carsie C. Clark,” said his grandson, Albert Clark, who is president and chairman of the board. “As of 2012, four of the third generation stockholders and six of the fourth generation stockholders work in various capacities within the Clark Corporation as well as being officers and directors of the subsidiaries.”

Starkville Coca-Cola bottling Co. employees who have worked at the company for a combined 221 years: Jim Donahou (41 years), Maurice Winn (52 years), Gary Mayo (37 years), Ed Phillips (40 years) and Jimmy Marllowe ( 41 years). 42

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Starkville CocaCola Bottling Co. on Washington St. where T.E. Lott is currently. He said the company’s holdings today extend into seven states the US today,” noted Albert. “At one time there were more than with Starkville as headquarters for the entire operation. The com- 500.” The Oktibbeha County Heritage Museum was presented with pany also maintains sales and warehouse facilities in Starkville, many items of memorabilia which traces the company’s 100 year New Albany, Southaven, and Cleveland. “Although we don’t have a production facility here, we are one of history. It may be seen at the museum on Tuesday, Wednesday ten Coca-Cola Bottlers who own Gulf States Canners, Inc. located and Thursday from 1-4 p.m. and by special appointment for small in Clinton,” added Albert. “I am the president of the company and groups. n we produce for bottlers in Mississippi, Alabama, Texas, Arkansas, Production crew: Tommie Bradshaw, George Henderson, Hube Nowell, Jesse Josey and Leon Montgomery. Kentucky and Tennessee.” “GSC also produces most of our canned products including Dasani Water and fountain syrup.” In addition to Coca-Cola, products distributed include Dr Pepper, Minute Maid Juices, Chocolate Group, Evian Water, Coors, Miller, Sprite, Pabst, Stroh, Heineken USA, and various other imports and domestic beers. The company now occupies an 80,000 square foot distribution center located on Miley Drive in the Industrial Park. Construction will begin soon on an additional 40,000 square feet of space. “Clark Beverage Group, Inc. is one of only 70 privately held Coca-Cola franchises remaining in

Maroon Madness

BY SHEA ALLEN | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF GREATER STARKVILLE DEVELOPMENT PARTNERSHIP

his fall, weekends are set to be a lot more fun, and not just because the Bulldogs are off to a great start this season. The Greater Starkville Development Partnership has created New South Weekends during home football game weekends. New South Weekends extend the fun of home football games into a three-day, family friendly extravaganza where there is something for each member of the family to enjoy. And the weekend of October 12, the Tennessee Volunteers wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be the only orange seen in the usually maroon laden town. The fourth-annual Pumpkinpalooza will be held Friday, October 12 from 6 to 8 p.m. on downtown Main Street.

Mississippi State University Cheerleaders lead the pep rally at the 2011 Pumpkinpalooza. 44

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Pumpkinpalooza

“I knew as a mom that we needed a family friendly Fall harvest, Halloween event in Starkville, and I really wanted to see it happen downtown,” said Jennifer Gregory, vice president of tourism development for the GSDP and the creator of Pumkinpalooza. “So with the help of Melissa Dixon from Blufish Design and Jeremiah Dumas with the City of Starkville, we brainstormed ideas for what we thought would make a great event. It’s really the product of several organizations coming together to create something that is positive for our community.” The streets of downtown will be transformed into a large pumpkin patch, which will feature locally grown pumpkins from Lancaster Farms and mums from Busy Bee Nursery. Main Street merchants will kick off the Halloween season with trick-ortreating for the children, and for the parents, Starkville Community Market vendors will be selling fall baked goods, preserves, pickled vegetables, and of course, all downtown dining will be open for business. And the Mississippi State University Fashion Board models will be showcasing all the latest fall trends in the windows of the Main Street retailers.

“Game day weekends in Starkville are some of my favorite times, but events like Pumpkinpalooza really bring a new element to the atmosphere,” Gregory said. “It’s awesome to see thousands of children from our community, as well as visitors, dressed in Halloween costumes, enjoying our great downtown, patronizing our local businesses and celebrating Mississippi State in the process.” No community event would be complete without a little help from the MSU Athletic Department. Athletic Director Scott Stricklin, the MSU cheerleaders and Bully will lead a pep rally in the middle of it all starting at 6 p.m. “I love that MSU participates in this event with the pep rally because it gives the vent that game day feel, while showing that the City and MSU truly do work together towards the same goals,” Gregory said. “Pumpkinpalooza has helped generate unprecedented press for Starkville and our downtown, and it’s also helped our downtown merchants reach record sales because of the great late-night shopping.” townandgownmag.com

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Maroon Madness at Humphrey Coliseum in 2011. “This year, we are looking outside the box on how to take this to a new and exciting level, “ Ellis said. “While it was at Humphrey Coliseum a year ago, that might not be the case this year.” Photo submitted

After you’re selected the perfect pumpkin, eaten your share of the local fare and rubbed elbows with Bully, get ready for the second-annual Maroon Madness at 7 p.m., which officially kicks off the men’s and women’s basketball season. Traditionally dubbed “Midnight Madness”, the NCAA has amended the rules to allow the first basketball practice to start a few hours earlier, making it the perfect complement to Pumpkinpalooza and Saturday’s football game. “The City of Starkville is very important to Mississippi State, and we want to make sure we do our part to in helping them with their events,” said Gregg Ellis, assistant director of media relations for MSU athletics. “Last year, Maroon Madness and Pumkinpalooza were a great partnership.” MSU Athletic Department is working on a creative way to introduce the players and coaches as well as developing videos to show a personal side of our athletes. There will be interactive events for the fans and a chance to win prizes. They also hope to have 3-point and dunk contests. Though Ellis is keeping the details of the evening a surprise, he promises the event won’t disappoint. Mississippi State University Men’s Head Basketball Coach, Rick Ray. Photo submitted

“Of course, there will be much more, but I don’t want to let out all the secrets,” Ellis said. “Each year, it’s a challenge to come up with new and exciting formats, and this year we’ll try to top what we did last season. It’s the surprise of the night. Everyone has to come check it out.” Ellis also hints that not only will the event be new and exciting, so might the location. “This year, we are looking outside the box on how to take this to a new and exciting level,” Ellis said. “While it was at Humphrey Coliseum a year ago, that might not be the case this year. I can envision it being outside. As to where, we just aren’t sure yet. Stay tuned. We’ll have a big announcement.” Regardless of the location, this year’s Maroon Madness will be extra special because the fans will get to see the new coaching staffs, hear from them about their plans for the season and get to know them a bit better before the first games. “It’s a great opportunity for the men’s and women’s teams to come together and put on a show for the fans,” Ellis said. “It’s all about the fans, and an opportunity for us to give back and say thanks for all the support they give us.” n Mississippi State University basketball player, Jalen Steele, against Kentucky University’s Doron Lamb. Photo submitted

{FoodDrink

A Toast to Scottyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wine and Spirits

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BY EMILY JONES | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CLAIRE MASSEY

hen Scott Gault received his permit from the Alcoholic Beverage Control Board (ABC) to operate a retail outlet in Starkville, he lost no time in developing a unique showcase for the vast selection of alcoholic beverages in his inventory. “Since all (adult beverage) stores in the state have basically the same stock and all have essentially the same prices, we wanted to concentrate on customer service and presentation.” Scotty’s Wine and Spirits opened for business in early August at 831-E Highway 12 West in 2,100 square feet of space next to Brian Michael’s Market & Deli. The Columbus native and Mississippi State University graduate put together an “A” list of investors and set out to create an attractive and comfortable environment for casual browsing. Gault, the managing partner, had a good idea of how to set his business apart from the competition, but he spent weeks traveling around the state to look at other innovative approaches to the marketing of permitted beverages. “I’ve worked for other people all my life beginning at age 13 when I had a paper route in Columbus. I guess it’s been a dream of mine to manage my own business.” He interviewed both wine and spirits connoisseurs and novices

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to develop a comfortable and effective presentation of his products. With the help of Columbus designer Penny Bowen, he has created a spacious venue with wide aisles and handsome handcrafted display cases for the inventory. The store’s interior was pictured on the front cover of the latest edition of “Wine Cellar Innovations” and carried a write-up inside. One corner of the store features a comfortable sitting area for conversation, and flat paneled television screens are mounted on two walls for customers’ enjoyment. “We stress customer service and personal assistance. While we don’t like to recommend certain varieties because people have such different tastes, we can offer information on food pairings and describe the properties of each variety,” Gault said. He added that price is not always a reliable gage in selecting wines and there are many reasonable varieties designed to enhance specific culinary offerings. Among his plans are wine tastings to be conducted with local restaurants to introduce the public to new varieties and food pairings. Store hours are 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. Monday through Saturday. For more information call 662-323-1972. n

A Healthy Change

BY JOE LEE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LIZZIE SMITH

hris Williams of Starkville is one more person who thought he’d planned out his life and career, only to realize a short time later he wanted to go in a totally different direction. “If you would have asked me a year ago, I would have told you exactly what I wanted and where I wanted to be,” said Williams, a Meridian native who moved to Starkville earlier this year and recently opened Peak Nutrition. “But life just doesn’t work that way.” Williams, who was recruited by Mississippi College to play football and planned to attend Law School there, competed for four seasons and served as a student assistant coach his final semester. By his senior year, though, he realized he wasn’t ready to start Law School right away. Nor was he happy with his appearance and decided to do something about it. “Nowadays, when I think about what I put into my body, it’s kind of embarrassing,” Williams said. “But at the time, I had to put on a lot of weight, and quickly. My senior year I looked at my weight and thought, “This is not what I want.” Chris’ father, Dr. Ed Williams, is a radiologist with Imaging Center Associates of Columbus. Dr. Williams had turned to weight loss products and was pleased with the results, and Chris decided to do the same thing after a trip to Oklahoma and Texas with his father and a family friend, they spoke with people on the same program that were very pleased. townandgownmag.com

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Peak Nutrition owner, Chris Williams. Williams, who describes himself as a lifelong MSU fan, moved to Starkville this year and opened Peak Nutrition on Russell Street. He’s interested in helping anyone improve their health through good nutrition. “We have targeted products for weight management, digestive health, heart health, immune solutions, healthy snacks, children’s products, and products targeted specifically at men and women,” Williams said. “We have energy supplements and a line geared toward athletes. We also have products for the average person just wanting a reliable meal with great nutrition.” Some folks view shakes as nothing more than a tasty snack or dessert, but Williams said that his popular lemon-blueberry and banana cream pie flavors are healthy despite the names. “We mix shakes in the club so people can try the products,” he said. “We have 25 different flavors and can tailor the protein to meet anyone’s needs. The shakes have about 12 grams of sugar and 20 grams of protein. Customers can also sample our refreshing, flavored energy teas.” There’s a lot more to Williams’ approach than simply selling a nutritious shake, however. “When someone comes into my club looking for a healthy way to lose weight, there are generalized programs we can use to get them started in the right direction,” he said. “I make myself available, and they explain what they are looking for. I’ve always had a product that is designed to supplement their need. “They don’t cure, diagnose, or treat anything, but I’ve had some remarkable results using these products. I’ve lost 26 pounds by replacing two meals per day with protein shakes, vitamins, and enhancers.” Dr. Gary Mayfield, the Dean of the School of Humanities and Social Sciences at Mississippi College, taught Williams and isn’t surprised at his protégé’s accomplishments. “I first had Chris in my introductory sociology class in the fall of 2007,” Mayfield said. “He kept to himself and was an average student. However, he began coming out of his shell in his second class with me in fall 2009. He took Aging in Modern Society and entered into class discussions a bit more and his grade in the class did likewise. “We chatted about football when we ran into each other on campus. In his last semester at MC, he took another of my cours50

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es, Social Organization, and again showed that he could do good, solid work while being a leading contributor to the class. His research paper for that class, “The Mississippi College Coaching Staff: Culture and Coordination, was a wonderful reflection of the progress he’d made in not only his academic capabilities, but also his maturity and perspective on life.” Lindsey Thompson, an MSU student originally from Jackson, met Chris through his sister, Charlotte, and became acquainted with Peak Nutrition through him. “I was over at their house one afternoon when I heard about Peak Nutrition,” Thompson said. “Charlotte knows how much I love to drink protein shakes and meal replacement shakes and healthy stuff in general. Chris made me a shake and it was the best one I had ever had. “He told me he was opening a club called Peak Nutrition and that he was going to sell the shakes there. I stayed in contact with Chris and he got me hooked up with some products and it was all I could talk about for weeks. They gave me so much energy, and since I’m a vegetarian I love getting 24 grams of protein in one shake.” Grenada native and MSU student Chris Wilbourn returned from basic training this summer with a vow to lead a healthier lifestyle. He walked into Peak Nutrition and struck up a conversation with Williams. “Chris introduced himself, was very friendly and knew a lot about the products they sell,” Wilbourn said. “I began getting a shake or two each day, and now I use their products every day. I wanted to maintain my weight and turn body fat into leaner muscle, and I’ve done that. I love their raspberry tea, it keeps my energy level high and the Cinnabon shake. While Williams hasn’t ruled out Law School, it’s on hold in the near term as he pursues his current calling. “Context is what I see Chris having as he begins this new chapter in his life,” Mayfield said. “It provides him a keen awareness of where he is right now. I know Chris will succeed at whatever he chooses to do because he possesses and uses daily the context of his life in his relationships with others.” “This is not a diet. It is a lifestyle,” Williams said. “It’s for people looking to make a change for the better in health and nutrition. It’s never too late.” n

Ethan Alexander and his dad Scott Alexander indulge in Tutti Frutti toppings.

The Newest Twist on “FroYo”

BY EMILY JONES | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DIVIAN CONNER

ave you had your probiotics today? Frozen yogurt continues to be the hot “health food” and a new Starkville business serves it up in sixteen delicious flavors, topped off with your choice of more than 30 premium toppings. A relative newcomer in the world of frozen yogurt, the US based Tutti Frutti was founded in 2009. It quickly rose to the largest chain of food outlets in the world, said George Sherman, owner of the local franchise. In mid-August, George and his son-in-law, Scott Alexander, opened the local store in the College Park Shopping Center on Russell Street – just in time for the dog days of summer. He said that part of the fun of eating frozen yogurt is how many ways patrons can customize their helping of frozen yogurt. The

colorful interior offers a playful backdrop for snacking on healthy fare, nicknamed “FroYo” by the college crowd. The most popular flavors include death by chocolate, vanilla, pomegranate, cheesecake, strawberry, tart, green apple, red velvet cake, coffee, peanut butter, mango, tutti frutti, peach, blueberry, and sugar-free chocolate and vanilla. “We use no artificial sweeteners, and we have fat and gluten free flavors, two sugar-free flavors and one for folks who are lactose intolerant,” said Sherman. New flavors set to go this fall include root beer float, tiramisu, cookies and cream, and banana and peanut butter. Toppings include a wide range of sweet morsels such as Skittles, M&Ms, gummy bears, Oreo cookies, almonds, Golden Grahams, and Lucky Charms, along with fresh fruits including pineapples, strawberries, kiwi, and peaches. townandgownmag.com

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ed ith fun animat HD screenrts w h it . w or ed av fl pp are to ch frozen yogu dispensers iri Tutti Frutti to pa ngs for ea ow sh rs te charac

With almost 600 stores worldwide, Tutti Frutti features cutting-edge soft serve machines and the company continually rolls out new and unique flavors to set them apart from the competition. “There are several reasons why Tutti Frutti yogurt has become a worldwide sensation,” said Scott Alexander, manager. “The taste and quality of our yogurt is simply unmatched. Moreover, there are substantial health benefits to eating frozen yogurt since most flavors are made with two percent milk rather than the heavy cream used in it’s close relative, ice cream.” The store is self-serve which enables the management to keep overhead costs down. It features carry-out as well as eat-in options. “The self-serve frozen yogurt concept has really become a hit in major cities across the world,” added Alexander. Both he and his father-in-law are MSU graduates and huge Bulldog fans. Local hours are noon-10 p.m. Monday-Thursday and noon to 11 p.m. Friday through Sunday. For more information call 662-268-8104. n

Scott Alexander, Kim Alexander, Ginny Sherman, George Sherman (owner of Tutti Frutti), Benjamin, Cate and Ethan.

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October Tablescapes PHOTOGRAPHY BY LIZZIE SMITH AND DIVIAN CONNER

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1 Casafina Maderira Harvest dinnerware Mak B 2 Good Earth Monarchand Veitri dinnerware Giggleswick 3 Magnolia Lane Mississippi State University collection and McCarty pottery University Florist 4 Fortunata Festa Verde and Arte Italica dinnerware Thyme

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Too Cute Too Spook DECORATIONS BY GIGGLESWICK PHOTOGRAPHY BY DIVIAN CONNER

RIP Pudding 1 4-Pack Chocolate Pudding 8 Oreo cookies Candy Corn 4 Chocolate Chip Cookies Black Gel Icing Take chocolate pudding and empty into decorative container. Write with black gel icing “RIP” at the top of chocolate chip cookies and add to pudding by placing it on the side of container. Grind by hand or food processor Oreo cookies after disposing of cream filling and add ground cookie to the top of pudding. Place candy corn around bowl to give decoration. Scull head plastic rings give a special spooky finishing touch. 54

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Oozing Smores 8 chocolate or regular graham cracker squares 3 tablespoons chocolate-hazelnut spread 3 tablespoons marshmallow creme Place graham cracker squares on a work surface; spread 4 squares with chocolate-hazelnut spread. Spread remaining graham cracker squares with marshmallow creme. Place graham crackers, marshmallow sides down, on top of chocolatehazelnut spread. Place on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave, uncovered, on 100% power (high) for 30 seconds. Add Halloween colored sprinkles and bat plastic rings on marshmallow cream to decorate.

Mummy Dogs 1 can (8 oz.) refrigerated crescent dinner rolls 1 package of hot dogs Desired topping for face decoration (ketchup, mustard or dates) Heat oven to 375 degrees. Unroll crescent roll dough; separate at perforations creating 4 rectangles; press perforations to seal. With knife or kitchen scissors, cut each rectangle lengthwise into one -inch pieces. Wrap pieces of dough around each hot dog to look like “bandages,” stretching dough slightly to completely cover hot dog. About 1/2 inch from one end of each hot dog, separate “bandages” so hot dog shows through for “face.” On ungreased large cookie sheet, place wrapped hot dogs; spray dough lightly with cooking spray. Bake 13 to 17 minutes or until dough is light golden brown and hot dogs are hot. Decorate face as desired.

Sweet Pretzel Bites 1 bag Mini Pretzels 1 bag Hershey Kisses Hugs (any kind of kisses would do) 1 bag Candy Corn Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper or foil. Place pretzels on cookie sheet, not touching. Unwrap Hershey’s Kisses and place on top of pretzels and then place filled cookie sheet in oven. Bake for 3-5 minutes but no longer. Take out of oven and gently place candy corn on top of Hershey Kisses, pushing down ever so gently.

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k c i Fall P s â&#x20AC;&#x2122; r o t i d E Gift Ideas PHOTOGRAPHY BY LIZZIE SMITH

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1. Vintage Watches. Aspen Bay 2. Lauren G Adams Bangels. Giggleswick 3. Rock Flower Paper iPad Cases. University Florist 4. Fascination Mustard Yellow Dress with Black Lace Detail. Deep South Pout 5. Blu Gertrude Fedora Hats. Deep South Pout 6. The Grit Pullover. George Sherman 7. Votivo Candles. Purple Elephant 8. Esley Cream Jacket and Maroon Dress. L.A. Green Boutique.

16 9. Rustic Frames. Neblettâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 10. Vintage Sunglasses. Aspen Bay 11. The North Face Fleece Jacket & Tee. Reeds 12. Hunter Rain Boots. Reeds 13.Wooden Distressed Frames by Kathy Phillips. Mak B 14. Antique Wine Carrier and Decorative Corks. Thyme 15. Angie Maroon Dress. Sisters 16. Lily and Laura Bracelets. L.A. Green Boutique

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Lindsay Jo’s Style Update

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF LAUREN ANN COOPER

he Las Vegas Apparel Market, known as MAGIC in the fashion industry, took place August 20–23, 2012. MAGIC is curated by the leading retail publicaMAGIC publica tion Women’s Wear Daily (WWD) and is recrec ognized for showcasing the most comprehencomprehen sive collection of women’s apparel, accessories, and footwear. Over 2,000 labels ranging from emerging to established designers collaborated to bring guests all the styles of the Fall Lindsay Jo Wilkinson season and expert fashion forecasts of those to come. Lauren Ann Cooper, Lindsay Jo Wilkinson owner of the boutique L.A. Green in is an online lifestyle Starkville, was present at MAGIC last blogger. Her blog, acumonth and has brought back all of the poflindsayjo.com, has a latest trends to Mississippi. When asked what MAGIC fashionprimary focus on fashably forecasted this Fall, Cooper recion. Lindsay is a memreated the scene of the apparel marber of the Independent Fashion Bloggers (IFB) ket. Expect to see lots of ankle boots, and fringe accessorizing any article and attends various of clothing coupled with denim cutconferences and workoff shorts. Women also wore combat shops with other fashion bats, but paired them with softer sebloggers regularly. quin tops or blouses with embellished

Above: Colored cut-off denim are staples for a stylish fall wardrobe. Top Right: L.A. Green owner Lauren Ann Cooper at the Las Vegas apparel market with shoe designer Steve Madden. Bottom Right: Pair patterned shorts and dresses with ankle boots are a trendy fall look. 58

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collars for a balanced look. Colored denim was featured by nearly every vendor, but the jeans also were imprinted with more interesting textures and patterns than those pairs prevalent last Spring. Polka dots predominated; look for dotted blouses, dresses, and even jeans this Fall and through the holiday season. As for accessories, layering bracelets are hugely popular this Fall, especially the Laura and Lily line.

For those looking ahead, Cooper felt MAGIC emphasized carrying over these trends into Spring. Imagine brighter fringe, even tie-dyed, in the warmer months embellishing tops, shorts, handbags, and swimwear. Dots will still be in demand, albeit bigger and brighter, and highwaist denim shorts will be in style. Expect to see not only colored jeans in the spring, but also jackets and vests. Sheer panels and cutouts will be incorporated into dresses and blouses also. For more information on MAGIC, please visit magiconline.com. For more information on Cooper and her boutique L.A. Green, please visit her store at 500 Russell St., Starkville.

Above: The brighter, the better : bold colors will dominate apparel and footwear this season. Right: Expect embellishments: glitter, sequins, and metallic studs will adorn dresses, blouses, shorts, and skirts this fall. townandgownmag.com

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Positively Pink GOWNS BY CHRISTINE’S COUTURE HAIR AND MAKEUP BY SALON 28

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| october 2012

BY MEGAN HENDERSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY DIVIAN CONNER

he This month, nearly 4,000 North Mississippians will lace up their sneakers and pound the pavement for about three miles through the streets of Tupelo. But they’re not just running for their own health. They’re running for the health of millions of women who are in a race of their own – a race against breast cancer.

On Saturday, October 27 at 8 a.m., Tupelo’s Fairpark District will transform into a sea of pink as the 15th annual North Mississippi Race for the Cure commences. Breast cancer victims and survivors, as well as friends, family, and community members, will run and walk wearing the signature color of the Susan G. Komen Foundation. This is no ordinary 5k run. It is a celebration of strength and perseverance. It is fellowship among patients, survivors, and those who support them. Cindy Hale has been the Race Director for the North Mississippi Affiliate since March of 2011, and she is excited about this year’s event. Last year, $172,000 was raised and granted to 10 nonprofit organizations in 15 North Mississippi counties, including Oktibbeha, Clay, and Lowndes. The annual donations from race participants directly benefit these organizations. They are able to provide education and breast cancer screenings for uninsured and under-insured north Mississippians. However, while these donations meet so many needs, there is always more demand for these resources. “The greatest financial need is for breast cancer screenings. The cost for a mammogram is a couple hundred dollars, so we encourage everyone who participates this year to try to raise $100,” Hale said. For Hale, Race for the Cure is not just another worthy cause. Shortly after the 2011 Race for the Cure, her mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. Because of her extensive work with the race, Hale was able to provide her mother with information about breast cancer and explain the options her doctors were giving her. “I know that if I had not been in this position, I would not have been able to share that with her,” Hale said, “and now I know how important it is to let people know that we can provide that information to them.” While Hale works relentlessly for the race and the Komen Foundation in Tupelo, she is not alone in her efforts to promote Race for the Cure and breast cancer education in North Mississippi. Advocates on Mississippi State University’s campus are also striving to raise money and awareness. Zeta Tau Alpha is one organization that is deeply committed to this cause. The sorority’s MSU chapter has supported the Komen Foundation since 1992. In the past six years, their local chapter has raised over $100,000 for the ZTA Foundation, which supports Race for the Cure.

In addition to fundraising, members participate and volunteer in the North Mississippi Race for the Cure. The sorority provides pink T-shirts and caps for participating survivors, and the girls help in the survivor tent, pass out water, and do other jobs as needed. ZTA is active on campus as well as at the race, organizing programs during its “Think Pink Week” at the end of October. They coordinate contests and a “Stomp Out Breast Cancer” Step Show, an everpopular event.

The girls of ZTA are personally dedicated to the Komen Foundation. Philanthropy Chair Anna Warren said, “We have had several members whose mothers have fought breast cancer, and numerous alumna from our chapter have had it in their lifetime. We support our cause not only to remember those in the past and present but also those women who may be diagnosed in the future.” MSU’s Health Education and Wellness department likewise supports educational programs on campus. They host the Komen on the Go program, where a bright pink RV parks on campus and serves as a mobile learning station for prevention and early detection. They also distribute informational cards in dorms to instruct students in performing a Breast Self Exam (BSE) and host a lunch with a speaker once a month. While they stress the seriousness of the disease, the department also wants to engage students who may not otherwise be interested in learning about breast cancer.

One of their most popular programs is the Bra Pong challenge. This game is similar to beer pong, only bras are placed on the board instead of plastic cups of beer. All participants receive educational information, so they can learn and be entertained at the same time. All of the efforts to fundraise and educate for breast cancer are vital and can be fun and engaging. But what make them meaningful are the individuals who have battled and survived the cancer. Four Starkville residents are particularly passionate advocates of Race for the Cure and breast cancer education. These women, who are beautiful inside and out, are adamant about awareness and prevention because they have battled the cancer themselves. Lisa Thomas is a survivor of 14 years. In 2005, she joined her sister and mother in Tampa, FL for a Race for the Cure 3-day, 60-mile walk. Not even the rainy weather could dampen their spirits. “It looked like it had been raining pink raindrops. Music was playing, flags were flying,” Thomas said, “and everyone had big smiles on their faces and tears in their eyes.” Vicki Squires, a survivor of 12 years, has been a regular participant in Starkville’s Relay for Life since 2004, helping raise over $10,000 for cancer programs. “It touches my heart that women want to help women,” Squires said. Diana Williams celebrates 9 years of being cancer-free. She wears pink every day during the month of October, speaks at her church about the importance of early detection, and passes out pink ribbons, pens, and T-shirts to spread the message. Williams is close to her family and has witnessed family members and friends lose the battle with cancer. “If there’s anything that I can do to help with the fight, I will,” Williams said. Gina Prisock was diagnosed with breast cancer May 25, 2012. She is currently in treatment and is grateful for her family, friends, church, and local doctors. “We’re so fortunate to have doctors who can treat us and keep us at home. [Oktibbeha County Hospital] is a fabulous facility,” Prisock said. “I had my surgery there.” About 1 in 8 women will develop breast cancer over her lifetime. It is a disease that affects not only the victims, but also their families, friends, and communities. But with the help of doctors, researchers, educators, and organizations like the Komen Foundation, we can hope that one day, breast cancer will be eradicated. Until that day, we can keep volunteering, donating, educating, walking, and racing toward a cure. n townandgownmag.com

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Lisa Thomas

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t seemed like overnight that I developed a lump on my right breast. My mother in law thought that it must be a cist since it came up so quickly. I went to the doctor as soon as possible to find out I had a very aggressive form of cancer. My husband, children, family and friends were very supportive. The doctors advised me to have a radical mastectomy, followed by chemotherapy and radiation. Every three weeks I would go to University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Hospital for my treatment of “Red Devil”, the nickname given to the medication I was taking because of its color and side effects. My nurses told me that I would lose my hair after my first treatment, so we decided to have a head-shaving party. Sitting in my bathroom, my son, who was 11, and my daughter, who was 5, each took turns cutting my hair while I tried not to cry. When they finished, my husband took the electric razor and buzzed my hair close to my head. This may have hurt as bad as hearing the words “I have CANCER.” Every woman wants to feel pretty, and how was I going to be pretty with a bald head? Well, I survived that, and 14 years later I am still surviving. I knew that God would carry me through this horrible time, and with a positive attitude and prayers from those I knew and some I didn’t, I never doubted that I was going to be okay.

Vicki Squires

was diagnosed with breast cancer when I was 38 years old. I had never had a reason to have any tests done. I was involved in an auto accident and hurt my left arm. I was rubbing my arm and under my arm next to my breast and found a pea sized knot. From there on came the battery of tests, horrifying results, surgery, treatments, and the ongoing stress and fear before each continuing annual test that the cancer had come back. I tried to stay strong and was able to drive myself to my radiation treatments every day for 6 weeks to Columbus and Tupelo and take a “chemo” pill at the same time. The hardest thing I remember having to do was to call my Mom and Dad in Virginia and tell them I had cancer. After my last radiation treatment, I met a man who I am still with today, Amery “Bubba” Willard. Although I was shy and very self-conscious, he helped me through the anxiety of scars and my 3-month, 6-month, and then annual check ups, with love, care, and understanding that I had never had from a relationship before. Yes, I had finally found my rock to lean on and didn’t feel so alone. In February of 2005, I received my 5-year cancer-free notice from my Oncologist and my Surgeon. I continue to be thankful for the support, care, love and concern I still receive from family, friends, and organizations supporting all cancers. townandgownmag.com

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DianaWil iams I

was lying in bed one morning. I found a lump myself, and it didn’t move. I thought that was strange. It was Saturday, and I had to wait until Monday to go to the doctor for a mammogram. It was a bit uncomfortable, but it wasn’t like the horror stories you hear. They did several tests, but the results were negative. A month later, I noticed the lump was growing. I went in for another mammogram, plus an ultrasound and biopsy on December 31, 2002. I didn’t get the results until Jan. 7 2003. The doctor came in and said, “Cancer’s not the end of the world.” I remember my heart dropping; I prayed, and the scripture, “This sickness is not until death” came to me. I felt a sense of calm. Since I wanted a second opinion, I went to a doctor in Jackson, who confirmed it was cancer. It was 5 cm, which is too big for a lumpectomy. I scheduled chemotherapy first and later got a mastectomy. My aunt, who had a breast removed, advised me to get reconstructive surgery. I went back for more chemo and needed aggressive treatment: 28 rounds of radiation, lasting about 6 weeks. I started eating a lot of nutritious food fruits, vegetables, and nuts to support my health. But I attribute my 9 years of survival not only to healthy eating but also to my faith in Jesus and staying around positive people. I feel that my journey went quickly because I had so much support and was never sick. I was able to work and was blessed that I was not sick, nauseated, none of that. The only thing I experience now is lymphedema, where my arm swells. I was taught how to do massages and wear wraps to control it. The more you know, the more you can do. Knowledge is power.

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| october 2012

Gina Prisock I

was diagnosed May 25, 2012. From that day, in my heart, I told myself, “Gina, this is your journey. You’re going to have to be strong for your family.” I thought that my strength would affect how my family would take my diagnosis. I found out early on that the three most important things in life are faith, family, and friends. With those three, you can conquer anything. Family and friends never fail me. Faith is my strength, hope, and guarantee. With these three, I know that I and other breast cancer patients are going to be OK, no matter what happens. I knew I was ready for the fight, my family was ready, and my friends were ready to do anything for me. The doctors and medicine are definitely important. God provides them with their knowledge and they do their part, but so much is your own mindset. However, we’re fortunate to have the doctors we have who can treat us and keep us at home, where friends, family, and church are. I also take all-natural supplements in combination with my medication. I follow a regiment of natural vitamins and eat a lot of organic fruits and vegetables. I have a neighbor and friend who visited me early on and showed me how to juice and make smoothies. He shared his knowledge and made me realize how many vitamins and minerals are in the seeds, peels, and other parts that we usually throw out. Sharing information is so important. If we keep it to ourselves, that’s not fair.

townandgownmag.com

| october 2012

{On the Page

Last Chance Texaco BOOK REVIEW BY SUSAN O’BRYAN

he fictional town of Oakdale, with more than a passing semblance to Starkville, comes alive again in Joe Lee’s Last Chance Texaco, the fourth in a series about the northeastern Mississippi community. Once again, the college town has more than its share of characters, tragedy and excitement. Meet Chris Brantley, a devoted father, enthusiastic runner and weekly newspaper publisher. His marriage is on shaky ground, but he’s committed to trying to hold it together for the sake of son Billy. Chris grew up in a dysfunctional family, and he wants to spare his offspring from similar heartache. He’s made a quick trip from his Rankin County home to take part in a 10K run in his hometown – Oakdale. When he stops at a convenience store to grab a bottled drink, Chris bumps into Lisa Crosby, his one-time college sweetheart. From there, a friendship quickly turns into a romance. Lisa is ready to share her heart, but also a secret that she’s guarded for nearly two decades. Much to her surprise – and pleasure, Lisa has just met the daughter she secretly gave up for adoption. Dorothy King is the daughter conceived with Chris. Just as the two former lovers relight the spark, Lisa dies in a tragic car wreck. Both Dorothy and Chris believe there’s more to the wreck than just bad driving. Their pursuit of the truth triggers an avalanche with both the innocent and guilty in its direct path. Telling more would give away too much of the suspense that builds page after page. It’s a pace that we’ve come to expect from this author. Following the advice of successful writers such as Stephen King, Lee fills his novels with what he knows best – life in Mississippi. “Many years ago, I tried to set a would-be novel in Memphis but knew absolutely nothing about the city, and a literary agent who read my query letter and sample pages nailed me on it,” Lee said. ”I couldn’t agree more with King’s comment that you should write what you know and set it in a place you’re familiar with.” Lee did just that, choosing a Starkville-like town, Oakdale, for Judgement Day, The Magnolia Triangle, The Long Road Home, and now Last Chance Texaco. The author has already finished the fifth 66

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follow-up, Director’s Cut. For the first time, he’s added a touch of himself to a character. “This is the first time there’s been much of me in any of my characters,” Lee said. “Like Chris, I’m a writer, I’m a runner, and I live with my family at the reservoir area of Rankin County. Chris, though, is going through tremendous upheaval in his personal life. Thankfully, I’m not going through any of that!” Training for his first half marathon helped Lee develop a character who embraces the sport of running. “I ran track a long ago in high school and didn’t enjoy it much,” Lee joked. “I’m half as fast now, but I enjoy it twice as much.” Lee tends to stay close to home when it comes to his novels’ settings. The first two were set in Jackson, and he followed those with four net in Oakdale. “Oakdale is a lot smaller than Starkville today, but in a lot of ways it is similar to the Starkville I remember from my high school and college days there. “As I tell people at book talks, Oakdale is a seemingly serene small town, but there’s a lot of crime, old money and skeletons in the closets of the folks who live there. And everybody knows everybody else’s business in a small town.” Joe Lee will sign books at 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 6 at Lemuria located in Banner Hall in Jackson. For more information visit lemuriabooks.com. n

{On the Page

Man Of War BOOK REVIEW

BY MILTON WHATELY

ittle did Charlie Schroeder know that a trip to Old Fort MacArthur, 25 miles south of Los Angeles, would start him on a year-long adventure traveling across America and participating in various re-enactor groups, groups that collectively spanned 2000 years of western history. It was a hot Sunday afternoon when Charlie and his wife, Wendy, attended a fundraising event at Old Fort MacArthur. At the event, visitors could talk to participants in 75 different reenactor groups from all over America. Re-enactors take an event or place in time and as closely as they are able, live out that moment as true to the time as possible, even to the most minute detail. Schroeder, a writer, public radio producer and actor has always had a fascination with history. His first acting job was at a Renaissance fair. He admits that if not in acting, his preferable job would be history related. That day at Old Fort McArthur, he began to ask himself why a person would go to so much effort, so much expense, to recreate a particular moment in time. To find out, he committed to researching groups and with those who would allow him, to participate in their re-enactments. In his adventures he experienced life as a soldier in the Revolution, the French and Indian War, the Civil War, and Vietnam. He also took on the persona of a seventeenth century Polish Winged Hussar, a cavalry unit that drove the Turks out of Europe and saved Christendom. Of all of the re-enacting groups, one of the most difficult to interview, but eventually most interesting, were the Vikings. One of the most vivid adventures took him to Colorado as a participant in the 1942 Nazi drive toward Stalingrad. This event

became especially memorable when several farmers from the area who knew nothing about the re-enactment, appear and discover groups of men in Nazi uniforms milling around the Colorado countryside. Another interesting experience was when Schroeder traveled to northeastern Arkansas and discovered Fort Lafe, a structure of Roman design 175 feet by 150 feet with ten foot high walls and two watchtowers, circa AD 43. The question of why is as varied as the people that Schroeder encounters. Some are re-enactors because it puts them in touch with their heritage, while others re-enact because of a love of a far away time thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s better than the one in which they presently live. Schroederâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s adventures become the stories of the people he encounters and the sense of family and love of history in all of the groups. This book is much more than a read for the casual fan of history. If you are fascinated with people and how they live out their dreams, you will enjoy this book. With respect and humor, Schroeder tells history in a way that makes the reader want to know more about the new friends he made in his adventures and about the experience of re-enacting.

townandgownmag.com

| october 2012

{On the Page

Rikki Williams

Williams is a 2012 graduate of Starkville Christian School. She attended summer school at Mississippi State University this summer. Her interests are sociology, music, and dance. Williams is a former member of Starkville's Mayor's Youth Council. She was the Youth Program Administrator at the Greater Starkville Development Partnership. In her free time she enjoys writing poems and songs.

State of Mind

What is a BullDawg?

One of the top ten We are here to stay and win Bulldog till the end

To be a bulldog means more than going to a few games It’s more than knowing all the players’ names To be a true bulldog one must bleed “Maroon and White,” It doesn’t matter if we’re the number one seed All that matters is your amount of fight When Mullen yells hold the line tight It’s knowing a bulldog’s favorite quote “Go to _____ Ole Miss” After the National Anthem’s final note This is what it means to be an MSU BullDawg!

Hard working students Majoring in what they love Never giving up Hard working teachers Here to broaden students' minds Helping one succeed Football fans get bells Stadium full of people Bulldogs till the end Correction to page 69 in Town and Gown Magazine September issue. 68

Jonathan Walker

Walker is a 23 years-old and a senior at Mississippi State University and plans to graduate in May 2013. He is majoring in secondary education with a concentration in English. He attended Hebron Christian School and graduated in 2007.

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| october 2012

{On the Page Reading Aloud

BOOK REVIEWS BY HELLEN POLK

ith the arrival of autumn there is much that children can do with all the leaves that are falling. Lois Ehlert took leaves, acorns, and sweetgum balls to make Leaf Man, the character in her book by that title. As Leaf Man gets blown by the wind, he encounters many beautiful aspects of nature during this season. The simple story comes to life with Ehlert’s full sized die-cuts, collages, and textured illustrations. She encourages her readers to see what shapes they can make with different fall leaves. She even identifies many leaves on the endpapers of the book. With some imagination and collected leaves and twigs, children can make their own leaf people and animals. Apples are also associated with the fall season. Gail Gibbons teaches “everything you need to know” about Apples. Children learn a brief history of apples, how they grow, and the varieties of apples in this science concept book. They will also learn new vocabulary words associated with apples while enjoying the rich illustrations for which Gibbons is famous. She even includes instructions on how to plant an apple tree, bake a pie, and make apple cider. This will be another excellent hands-on book to share. It wouldn’t be fall without talking about pumpkins! In The Pumpkin Patch Parable, Liz Curtis Higgs shares the story of the farmer as he plants pumpkin seeds and tends his patch. With delightful illustrations Higgs takes the pumpkin seed to a jack-o’lantern while relating it to God’s creation. This story is complete with Bible verses to accompany the pumpkin’s life cycle. It is a heartwarming parable of God’s love for His children. Described on its cover as “a lift-the-flap pumpkin fun book,” Whooo’s That, by Kay Winters, will excite young ones as they uncover many Halloween characters. Children can guess who’s hiding behind each pumpkin as they follow the rhyming clues. This is not a scary book, and it’s filled with lots of Halloween treats.

Steve Cox has written and illustrated a great new book filled with some Halloween fun in Is That You, Wolf? While the story is set on a farm and doesn’t mention Halloween, it will engage children as they are enticed to stick their hands in the pockets of the book if they dare. The story’s main character, Brave Little Piglet, thinks that a wolf is hiding somewhere on the farm. Readers join Little Piglet on his search and get to feel many interesting things along the way. I would love to sit with a child and see his expressions as he take the sensory dares and gets to the story’s surprise ending. For more Halloween fun, try Michael Garland’s Miss Smith and the Haunted Library. The very hip teacher, Miss Smith, takes her class to the library where they meet Virginia Creeper, the librarian. She reads to them from her Incredible Storybook, and scary creatures begin to appear. The book is scary in an enchanting way, and it introduces children to classic scary literary creatures like the Headless Horseman, Captain Hook, and Marley’s Ghost. Don’t miss this exciting read! And who hasn’t wondered, What’s Under the Bed? Joe Fenton’s fantastic black and white illustrations help Fred to find out what’s under his bed. Fred’s imagination nearly gets away with him, as it will the reader, only to discover that nothing scary lurks under the bed. It’s only Ted, the teddy bear, or is it? Whether you like nature and science stories or tricky Halloween books, there’s much to offer for your fall reading. Get on the porch swing with a cup of apple cider and enjoy the sights and sounds of fall with your favorite child and a good book! It’s worth it! n townandgownmag.com

| october 2012

{On the Page

STORY BY SUBMITTED | PHOTOS MISSISSIPPI STATE UNIVERSITY LIBRARIES ARCHIVES DIVISION

ississippi State University’s Reveille has gone digital. Every volume of the student-published yearbook is now freely available online via MSU Libraries’ website. The project to digitize all Reveille volumes began in April 2012, and was completed in August. Pages from the yearbooks have typically been the most often requested material for digitization from the University Archives. While the more recent volumes are holding their structure, some of the oldest books are not to be handled by the public due to their frail condition. Now, due to the completion of this digitization, anyone can access every year of the Reveille from anywhere whether you are an alumni, MSU fan or history fanatic. The Reveille chronicles the lives and events of Mississippi State University (previously named Mississippi Agricultural & Mechanical College and Mississippi State College) throughout the institution’s history. MSU Libraries partnered with the Lyrasis Mass Digitization Collaborative to complete this digitization project through a subsidy grant from the Sloan Foundation. Each of the volumes from 1898 to 2008 is searchable – thanks to the use of optical character recognition (OCR) software – and freely available for partial or complete download. For more information on MSU Libraries and to peruse the yearbooks, please visit library.msstate. edu/Reveille. n

Tombigbee Valley Fall District Meeting Photography by Laura Daniels

The Tombigbee Valley Fall District Meeting for the districtâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s garden clubs met at the Hilton Garden in on September 13, 2012 to start the new year of exciting events, fundraisers and opportunities for the community to learn about gardening. The ladies of the Tombigbee Valley District are dedicated to the beautification of their cities and gathered to celebrate their accomplishments throughout the year.

1. Debby Cooper, Margaret Fancher, Nancy Moore, Lynn Black, Elaine Thompson 2. Genevieve Swartzburg, Ginger Jones 3. Loretta Towels, Beverly Jones, Diane Ford, Fann Bost 4. Ann Chiles, June Wellington, Martha Wells, Jane Loveless, Sara Wilson 5. Jane Loveless, Mayor Parker Wiseman, Anita Reynolds 6. Dinah Clark, Kay Hughes, Bettie Cummings 7. Marilyn Taylor, Amy Crawford, Alice Lancaster, Helen Polk 8. Marie Cayson, Susan Street, Anita Reynolds 9. Vicki Katz - committee chair, Giles Lindy - FUMC minister/ invocation 10. Joan Ball, Joan Carr, Joy McCullough 11. Eileen Keough, Mary Dixon, Florence Petroski 12. Linda Beasley, Lynda Forbus, Nancy Diffee 13. Pattie Smith, Greta Raigins 14. Paula Howard, Melanie Gousset

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Downtown Block Party Photography by Laura Daniels A celebration of Starkvilleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 175th Anniversary year a parade and downtown block party was held on Friday, September 7, 2012. Fashion Board members models MSU-inspired fashion and MSU Cheerleaders brought the Bulldog spirit to the event.

7 1. Kimmy Adkins, Samantha butler 2. Naomi Yauk, Natalie Wilson, Amy Wilson, Kati Yauk, Jesse Yauk, Evie Daniels, Hannah Daniels 3. Jenny Sherman, Marguerite Portera, Jill Borgognoni, Kim Alexander, Scott Alexander, Cate Alexander 4.Trey Templeton, Luke Vaughn 5.Henry Strawderman, Lesley Strawderman, Jane Strawderman, Branson Strawderman 6.Bryan Jones, Vika Jones, Maya Jones, Anara Kozhokanova 7. Emily Jeffries, Bully, Ashlee Laughlin 8. Caroline Cheatham, Kelly Cheatham, Brooklyn Cheatham, David Cheatham 9. Tristan King, Seely King, Hannah Pickle, Tracy King, Joy Reed, Elizabeth Pickle 10. Rebekah Lovorn, Anna Ruth Lovrorn 11. Hannah Pickle, Elizabeth Pickle 72

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12. Mason Mazingo, Dennis Mazingo, Dee Mazingo, Mary Webb, Buddy Johnston, Anna Kate Mazingo 13. MSU All-Girl Cheerleading Squad 14. MSU Fashion Board Model, Paige Haynes 15. MSU Fashion Board Model, Molly Nail 16. Sandra Guzman, Rene Camacho 17. Aleah Graham, Alana Graham 18. MSU Fashion Board Models 19. Mia Manjarrez, Trina Manjarrez, Isaac Manjarrez, Jade Cummins 20. Mollie Smith, Dustin Smith, Lena Grace Smith 21. MSU Cheerleader, Meredith Garvin 22. Christy Walker, Andrea Carver 23. Rose Coffey Graham, Akeah Graham, Frances Page townandgownmagazine.com

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MSU vs JSU Photography by Laura Daniels MSU Bulldogs beat JSU Tigers 56 to 9 at Davis Wade Stadium on September 1, 2012. The Junction was full of maroon and white and Bulldog spirit.

1. Charlotte Spencer, Dorretha Robinson, Pam Simmons 2. Marchelle Brain, Maddie Brain, Teddy Brain 3. Brent Walker, Eli Lasky 4. Jim Lipscomb, Hunter Lipscomb, Marco Hartmann, Bernd Gehring, Mario Hartmann 5. Ellie Myers, Phillip Myers, Rebecca Myers, Connie Hitt 6.Jack Aarhus, Molly Kate Aarhus, Amy Aarhus (Band Directorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wife and kids) 7. Kennedy Dycus, Brooke Dycus, David Dycus 8. Tony Armour, Kennedy Dycus, Sharon Armour 9. Kristin Byars, Lauren Hulett, Michelle LaFleur, Jessie Leddy

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10. Jessie Leddy, Morgan Leddy, Jeff Leddy 11. Brad Paczak, Jeremy Smitherman 12. Lindsay Bronson, Chris Jeffers 13. Tim Richards, Luke Richards 14. Josh Markham, Grayson Temple, Emma Grace Markham, Anna Catherine Markham, Krista Markham, Jordan Markham, Barren Temple, Kristen Temple 15. James Chaudry, Kayla Clayborne 16. Bob Smith, Melissa Smith, Jean Ann Evans 17. Melinda Richards, Allison Hughes 18. Michael Hughes, Mike Hughes 19. Mark Evans, Don West 20.Kendall Redmond, Kiel Redmond, Erin Adkins, Matt Adkins townandgownmagazine.com

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Denim and Diamonds Photography by Ashley Covin On August 17, 2012, Friends of the Museum hosted a Denim and Diamonds gala which provided funds for some of the projects of the Oktibbeha County Heritage Museum. The event was held at the Shrine Club in Starkville.

1.Terrance Evans, Helen Evans, Victor Evans 2. Gloria Rowland, Shay McDonnall, Beverly Jones 3. Wanda Thorne, Patsy Stuart, Ava Moore, Fairfax Montgomery 4.Larry Moore, Lorraine Blount 5.Lynn McAdams, Mildred Stickley 6. Carole McReynolds Davis, Ruby Lewis Davis 7. Carolyn Katz, Amelia Fox 8. Tes Salmon, Melvin Nava 9.Charlie Fox, Frank Davis 10. Lynn Spruill 11. Betty Jane Chatham, Joe Mosley

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Bulldog Brunch & Browse Photography by Ashley Covin Each Sunday following Mississippi State University home football games, enjoy special shopping and dining hours with participating Starkville Main Street Association members. Visit Downtown Starkville for lunch and shopping from 12-3 p.m. on Sundays for every New South Weekend.

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1. Chas Allen, Clara Allen, Renee Allen, Jesse Allen 2. Brooke Bibel, Shelly Bibel 3. Olivia Tardy 4. Amelia Sneed 5. Michelle Phillips, Milton Phillips 6. Rebekah Schilling, Jenna Schilling, Luke Schilling 7. Boudreaus Abadie (dog), Douglas Whitehead 8. Rebecca Tabb, Meaghan Covin 9. Morgan Pierce, Chelsea Pierce 10. Marie Maples 11. Jimmie Brown

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MSU Champion Society Photography by Debbie Montgomery The Mississippi State University Champion Society reception and dinner was held at Davis Wade Stadium Club Level on Saturday, August 18, 2012 in appreciation of their generous donations to MSU.

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1. Steve Golding, Melody Golding, Scott Stricklin, Julie Martin, Bruce Martin 2. Bart Gregory, Hassell Franklin, Jim Sneed, Rayburn Parks 3. Nutie Dowdle, Edie Dowdle Larry Otis, Albert Clark 4. Holly Schaefer, Vic Schaefer, Bobby Windham, Tina Windham 5. Sharon Fanning-Otis, Myrna Lott, Kitty Henry, Tim Hogan, Jacqueline Hogan, William Sanford, Robert Sanford 6. Floyd Wade, Strat Karatassos, Christine Wade 7. Anne Haley, Charles Haley 8. MSU President Mark Keenum, Rett Keenum, Carl Ray Furr and Sharon Fanning-Otis 9. Mike Sanders, Bryce Griffis 10. Myrna Lott, Kitty Henry 78

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SeeHear

OCTOBER

LIVE Music Schedule Oct 3

Josh Abbot Band at Rick’s Café at 8 p.m.

Oct 6

Pat Metheny at MSU

Oct 10

Big KRIT at Rick’s The Congress at Zorbas

Oct 11

Nycity slickers at W. Main St in Tupelo 6-3 a.m. Zoogma at Rick’s Café at 8 p.m. Yo Momma’s Big Fat Booty Band at Dave’s Dark Horse Tavern

Oct 12

Needtobreath at Thalia Mara Hall in Jackson at 8 p.m. Fly By Radio at Rick’s Café at 8 p.m. Brett Mosley at Dave’s Dark Horse The Mississippi Shakedown at Zorbas

Oct 13

Blues Regimen at Zorbas

Oct 16

Beats Antique with special guest Lynx at Rick’s Café at 9 p.m.

Oct 17

OTT and the All Seeing I at Rick’s Café at 7 p.m.

Oct 19

Eric Church with guests Justin Moore and Kip Moore at the Mississippi Coast Coliseum in Biloxi 30 Fingers at The Grill Number 2 at Zorbas

Oct 20

The Goatees at Zorbas Stephanie Jackson at The Grill

Oct 25

Super Water Symphony at Dave’s Dark Horse Tavern

Oct 26

High Road Out at Rick’s Café at 8 p.m. Agori Tribe + Parallax at Dave’s Dark Horse Tavern Wick-It the Instigator at Rick’s Café townandgownmag.com

| october 2012

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Mississippi State Fair This Jackson fair is one of the largest in the south and will also features entertainment by national recording artists, amusement rides, concessions, and agricultural and livestock competitions. It starts at noon and will continue to run from Oct 3-14. For more information contact Sandra Stocks at 601-961-4000. Hogwild BBQ Festival This annual Corinth festival boasts 3 full days of entertainment, games, carnival and an entire family barbeque cooking contest. It starts at 8 a.m. and ends October 6. For more information call 662-287-1550.

17th Annual Downtown Vicksburg Fall Festival This fall fest kicks off the weekend with live music on Friday at 7 p.m. at the Riverstage Plaza. Saturday, Oct 6 will have the fall fest bike ride at 8 a.m. and will have daytime exhibitions and kids activities. For more information contact Kim Hopkins at 601-634-4527 or visit www.downtownvicksburg.org. Columbus Tour of Homes Guests can tour antebellum and Victorian homes in Columbus during this fall tour. It starts Oct 5- 7 from 9 a.m.-9 p.m. For more information contact Columbus Cultural Heritage Foundation at 800-920-3533.

30th Annual Old Court House Flea Market This annual will have over 200 arts and crafts booths as well as food come rain or shine. It will be from 8 a.m-5 p.m. in Vicksburg, Miss. For more information contact George ‘Bubba’ Bolm at 601-636-0741 or societyhistori ca@bellsouth.net.

Mitchell Farms Pumpkin Patch This fun Pumpkin Patch in Collins, Miss will be opened until November 6, 2012. Admission is $7 for children and adults and includes a free pumpkin. Weekend tours are $8 but log homes are open for tour as well as the peanut operation. For more information call Jo Lynn Mitchell at 601-765-8609.

Canton Flea Market This event first began 1965 as an art show for the local artists and was voted one of the top twenty events in the southeast. It will be from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. For more information call 601-859-8055 or email cantonmsfleamarket@gmail.com.

Capitol Steps The Washington political satire group will be in Starkville at MSU at the Bettersworth auditorium at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $60 with a discount of $50 for senior citizens and MSU’s employees. For more information contact http://www.lyceum.msstate.edu.

Tupelo Gun and Knife Show The Tupelo Gun and Knife Show first started in 1998. Friday 5-9 p.m.; Saturday 9 a.m.-7 p.m.; and Sunday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. The price is $1. For more information call 662-842-4442.

Pumpkinpalooza Celebrate autumn at Starkville’s Pumpkinpalooza located downtown with a pumpkin patch of locally-grown pumpkins, trick-or-treating at each participating merchants’ store, pumpkin painting contest, live music and more. For more information visit starkville.org. 80

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OCTOBER Octoberfest This festival in Cleveland will have BBQ contest, local arts and crafts, live music, and antique car shows. Live music will be Friday, Oct 12 while the arts and crafts will begin on Saturday, Oct 13.

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Bulldog Brunch & Browse Starkville Main Street will open their doors to the public from 12-5 p.m. The stores will only open each of the seven Sundays of home football game weekends. Business After Hours: Black and Orange Ball Starkville Business After Hours will have their Black and Orange Ball at Buffalo Wild Wings. For more information call 662-323-3322.

The Great Mississippi River Balloon Race This weekend filled event in Natchez begins with a ‘Balloon Glow’ on Friday and will have live music at the Rosalie Bicentennial Gardens. For more information contact Babs Price at 601- 446-1352.

MSU Department of Communication 6th Annual Golf Tournament This annual event is held at the MSU Golf Course and all proceeds go to the Lora’s Scholarship. For more information, to register or sponsor the event visit comm.msstate.edu/golftourney.

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Harvest Fair This free fair in Tupelo at the Oren Dunn City demonstrates how life was in the 1800s that also will have games, live music, food and a scarecrow exhibit. For more information call 662-841- 6438. Bulldog Brunch & Browse Starkville Main Street will open their doors to the public from 12-5 p.m. The stores will only open each of the seven Sundays of home football game weekends.

Zoo Boo This entire week at the Hattiesburg Zoo will have games and activities for the entire family. This event will start Oct 25- 31 and will start from 5-8 p.m. For more information contact the Hatties burg Zoo at 601-545-4576.

Hill County & Chili Cook-Off This wholesome New Albany event starts off with the Chili cookoff at 4p.m. Bring your children because there will be kid’s activities, game, and crafts as well as a Costume Contest at 4:30 p.m.. Music will be provided by the Partlow Drummers and Kenny Brown at 5:30 p.m. as well as a hay ride by The Wise Family Farm. For more information contact Vickie Duke at 662-5343438. David Sedaris Famous author David Sedaris will be in Jackson at the Thalia Mara Hall at 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $33.

A Thousand Words Out Best of

and About

Chief at Golden Triangle Kennel Club Dog Show in January at MSU Horse Partk. Photo by Laura Daniels. Jace Phillips at the 2012 Starkville Sportsplex July 4th Celebration. Photo by Ashley Covin.

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Caroline Usery at the 175th Anniversary Celebration . Photo by Ashley Covin.

Lindsey Wiseman and Elizabeth Gwin at the Town and Gown Magazine Launch Party at the Palmerio Center in November 2011. Photo by Laura Daniels.

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