MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2013
The
Football S CA N F OR ONLINE ISSUE
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Lindsey Norman talks with
Candace Leigh Williams minister and life coach for Candace Leigh Ministies
grow into successful young men and women one day.
LN: How did you get your start in ministry?
CW: I was born and raised
in Starkville and grew up in the church all of my life as well. I started getting into ministry when I was 12 years old and I gave my first sermon when I was 18. I drew everything I did out of the church.
LN: What is your overall goal as a minister? CW: I do a lot of life coaching via phone calls, but I would like to reach more people throughout the country. I don’t mind traveling to other places to speak, but Starkville will always be my home and I love helping anyone who needs it.
LN: What made you want to become a minister?
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NEWS
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By Lindse y Nor man
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CW: I couldn’t run away from it. I needed to step out on faith, and show others to set out on their faith and trust what the Lord has planned for them. People have a hard time believing in themselves and I want to show them that they can believe in themselves with their faith. LN: How have you helped the
Boys and Girls Club in Starkville?
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CW: I am a mentor and life coach for the children at the Boys and Girls Club. I like to teach the children self-confidence so that they will be able to prosper and
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STATE the Facts What do all STATE fans agree on? Mississippi State University colors are great for the Fall; you can never wear enough Maroon!
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2013
Games Days Aug. Sept. Sept. Sept. Oct. 7 14 21 5 31
(See page 23 for full schedule.)
Oct. 12
Oct. Nov. 24 2
Nov. 9
Nov. 16
Nov. 23
Nov. 28
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Editor
Letter from the
“T
his time of year, I start getting really excited for
Fall. The weather starts getting a little bit cooler (mixed in with a good pair of maroon skinny jeans and winter boots of course) and there is excitment in the air on football Saturday mornings. Everyone is skirring around to get their tailgate set up to show out their neighboring tents. So, now it is time to stock back up on new recipes and trendy maroon and white decorations. I cannot forget to plan out my outfits for each home game – makes life a lot simpler and less stressful on game weekends. Yes, I stress about what I’m going to wear. This Fall we went to the next level for our readers and we are officially making our October issue an issue just for the guys called The Gentlemen’s Issue. T & G is super excited! We hope you enjoy it as much as we are planning it. Plus, this September is one not to miss either. Full of MSU, Bulldog, Starkville, Fall, maroon and white, and oh - football! It’s nice to have good help around to brainstorm and give our readers something they are running to the stands to pick up each month. Our interns and I have thought of a new page called T & G News and also look for our Town and Gown Blog on our website – it is something not to miss. T & G News has a variety of Golden Triangle happening, inspiring people, trends, and those just oh-so-random facts to be in the know. Our blog is another source updated twice a week with anything and everything that is perfect for those tech savvy or busy bodies. Issue after issue we dig deeper to make our readers excited about this area and what it has to offer. Email us with your ideas, comments or happenings. Who knows, it might be in the next T & G news or blog
Claire Massey
Choice r’s
Editor
Edito
r’s
Edito
post.
Look for this throughout the magazine for my favorite parts of the magazine from delicious food finds to a video of Bully, MSU mascot, swimming for exercise.
Choice
Town and Gown Magazine Stylist, Natalie Phillips, models Shea ‘Randia Bogan and Chase Anthony Cooksey and I at Starkville High School football field for the Life and Style fashion shoot. 10
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Table of
Contents
SEPTEMBER 2013
On the Cover FEATURES 15 The Bulldog Experience 51 The Voice of the Network
MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2013
The
Football Issue
Christina Lucas and her Southern Roots combine to make the perfect Tailgate for any MSU football game with homemade drink labels, a metal cowbell from Giggleswick, flower arangement from Bloom Flowers and Boutique and all natural Viril’s Rootbeer. Photography by Divian Conner
HOME AND GARDEN 28 DIY with Amy Taylor 30 It’s A Southern Thing 31 Southern Roots for the Perfect Tailgate 36 Gardening with Russell Hamilton TASTE AND TOAST 38 Quench the Thirst 41 Where the Wind Blows
HEALTH AND BEAUTY IN EVERY ISSUE 48 Game Day Beauty Secrets 5 T & G News 46 Moving into the Present 9 T & G Social 10 Letter From the Editor LIFE AND STYLE 12 Staff 56 For the Love of MSU 71 T&G Wish List 62 Meet the Local ... Lisa Pritchard 74 Literature 66 Fashion + Football 75 Events 72 A Cup of Lindsay Jo 81 Calendar 82 Advertisers september
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The Bulldog Experience By Joe Lee l Pho t og r aph y b y Laur a Daniels hen conversa-
“It has everything,” Stricklin said. “It’s the first
tions and plan-
time we’ve had football operations under one room
ning for the
– training rooms, weight rooms, the team audito-
new Leo Seal,
rium, coaches offices. You walk out the back door and
Jr. Football Complex at Mississippi State University
you’re right there on the practice field. It creates a
took place in early 2010, Dr. Mark Keenum, Athletic
level of organization and efficiency we haven’t been
Director Scott Stricklin, Head Coach Dan Mullen, and
able to show in the past and makes a great impression
lead architect Bob Luke agreed on two things: they
when you walk through it.”
wanted the facility to be state-of-the-art, and to look like MSU as much as humanly possible. “We looked at similar facilities all over the country
All of which will make life easier for everyone connected to the MSU football program. “Our coaches were in the Bryan Building, and
(before getting started), and ours is one of the nicest
they’d outgrown those offices,” Stricklin said. “Across
in the U.S.,” said Luke, an MSU graduate who heads
the street was the Holliman Center with weight
up the architectural firm of LPK in Meridian and has
rooms, training rooms, and equipment rooms. On the
overseen projects ranging from large healthcare facili-
back side of the old Shira field house were meeting
ties to historic renovations. “We started the architec-
rooms, and outside that you had to walk around the
tural design in October 2010, and construction began
track to get to the practice field. (The coaches and
in October 2011. Thirteen months later, it’s open.”
players) stayed in shape, I’ll put it that way. They were
A $25 million project, the 88,000-square foot Seal
nice facilities but logistically didn’t meet our needs.”
Building was not only completed on time, but it was finished in line with original budget projections. Luke said there were several challenges along the way, such as extremely tight site work, grade changes, and topographic issues. All the hard work has paid off, though, based on the rave reviews from folks who’ve visited the complex.
“I don’t think you can walk away from it without the feeling that football is really important at MSU.”
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“...it was imperative that the coaches have a stately and sophisticated facility that best represents MSU and the athletic department.” Cyndi Rutherford, a graphic designer who works full time for Something Southern of Starkville and on a contract basis for LPK, was given the plans about six months prior to the completion date. She worked with Tyson Langston and Lorin Chancellor of Sullivan’s Office Supply of Starkville to stock the Seal Building with quality furniture, accents and a variety of decorative touches. “My design process was to select finishes for every surface on the inside and outside of the building, taking into consideration the purpose Photos (Left to Right): Team meeting room equipped with sound barriers and dividers for offense and defense. Whiteboard room perfect for learning and discussing plays. Staff and football team cafeteria with the Fight Song. Entrance to the complex with TV screens and floor-to-ceiling photos of football players.
of each space and who would be using it,” Rutherford said. “Two presentation boards displaying materials were passed through the department for approval. Then the selection of furniture began. Although functionality and durability were high priorities, an upscale design was extremely important.
september
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“I felt it was imperative that the coaches have a stately and sophisticated facility that best represents MSU and the athletic department. I met with Coach Mullen and several others twice in seeking their needs and wants for their personal spaces. After selecting furniture styles and meeting with the coaches, I worked closely with Tyson and Lorin in finalizing manufacturers and fabrics to keep the overall design cohesive.” “Sullivan’s Office Supply is proud to have been chosen to furnish the Leo Seal, Jr. Football Complex at MSU,” said Sullivan’s president Steve Langston. “We have a long history of working with MSU. Several key employees (of ours) are MSU graduates, and part-time positions are filled with current MSU students.
At the Leo Seal, Jr. Football Complex each room is adorned with a cowbell in memory of or provided by a sponsor(s).
Mississippi State University Head Football Coach Dan Mullen’s office is filled with inspirational memorabilia, such as his championship and class rings – 10 to count - to his prayer journal, Jesus Calling by Sara Young.
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(Left to Right): The Leo Seal, Jr. Football Complex weight room. Conference room with white leather chairs along a elongated table from Sullivan’s Office Supply. “Architect Bob Luke and his LPK team designed a great facility for MSU
“We’ve been doing this a long time and
football. It offered Sullivan’s an op-
are confident in what we do, but it feels
portunity to use many various types of
real good to hear Dr. Keenum and Scott
office and classroom furniture.”
Stricklin say, ‘We love it.’ We want it to
The furniture includes a U-shaped
feel like MSU – the logo, the brand, the
desk in each of the assistant coaches’
music – when those kids walk through
offices with seating and overhead stor-
it, and for it to be an awesome experi-
age; large conference table chairs for the
ence for them.”
auditorium with the MSU logo on the
Several thousand fans came through
back of each seat and tablet arms that
the Seal Building during Super Bulldog
fold up; tables and stacking chairs in a
Weekend in April, and a high school
large, multi-purpose room, classroom-
coaching clinic was held there. Stricklin
style tables and chairs where position
looks for lots of fans and supporters of
coaches and players have breakout
the university to visit the new complex
sessions to focus on specific skills; the
and take in the experience. And he has
pieces and seating area inside Coach
his own favorite personal touches.
Mullen’s office; the pieces and seating
“One of the things the design team
area in the remainder of the support
did a great job with is the bricks. They
offices through the building.
match the look across campus, that ‘Old
“Bob (Luke) did a great job. He
Main’ look,” Stricklin said. “To me, that
understands MSU and what we’re try-
says MSU. Some of the brick is inside,
ing to do as well as anyone,” Stricklin
too, including in the locker room. It
said. “Sullivan’s was a great partner and
represents the institution as a place
added another layer to the overall qual-
with a great past and promising future.
ity of the facility.”
I don’t think you can walk away from
“Scott is real big on ‘The Bulldog Experience’ and wanted that, and for it to be a state-of-the-art facility. Dan
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sees it as a recruiting tool,” Luke said.
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it without the feeling that football is really important at MSU.”
Mississippi State University Fight Song Hail dear 'ole State, Fight for that victory today; Hit that line and 'tote that ball; Cross the goal before you fall, And then we'll yell, yell, yell, yell! For dear 'ole State we'll yell like hell! Fight for Mis-sis-sip-pi State, Win that game today.
september
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The Season Ahead with Maroon and White Nation
M&WN is a private own site run by graduates of Mississippi State. Maroon and White Nation.com is not affiliated with Mississippi State University. The views and opinions express are that of the author and may not reflect the views of other members of the site. maroonandwhitenation.com Twitter: @mandwnation Facebook: Maroonandwhitenation
Pho t os b y Mississippi S t at e Univ er sity A t hle tics
nce again the thrill of a new foot-
O
This year's offense should see some changes from 2012. The Bull-
ball season is upon the Mississippi
dogs plan to put 5th year Senior quarterback Tyler Russell under center
State faithful. The 2013 season
in some new formations in an effort to try and bolster the run-game.
brings the usual excitement, but with it lot
This will also get more tight ends on the field for the Bulldogs – a
of questions and concerns about how things
position group that has a lot of talent. In addition to helping the run-
will be handled both on the field and on the
game, this should also make the play-action passing game tougher to
recruiting trails going forward.
defend this season.
The 2012 season was the best of times and
22
OFFENSE
Offensively, there are plenty of reasons for optimism with 7 starters
the worst of times. That old saying describes
returning (if RG Tobias Smith returns for a 6th year of eligibility).
Mississippi State football best for its results last
At QB, Tyler Russell returns as the starter after breaking many school
fall. The best of times as State started off 7-0
passing records in 2012, passing for 2,897 yards and 24 touchdowns.
and Bulldog Nation was extremely hopeful and
Russell is a borderline draft pick for the NFL and is hoping to have a
excited. The worst of times as the Bulldogs lost
good season to help his cause. He is very accurate on short to medium
5 of their last 6 games including the Egg Bowl,
passing zones, but needs work throwing the ball down the field. He
which left some fans with a feeling of gloom
also needs to work on getting rid of the ball a little quicker. The hard-
and doom. Where does that leave State head-
working Russell had a really good spring and hopefully made strides
ing into 2013? Can Mullen get the ship back
on those weaknesses. Russell is backed up by Sophomore Dak Prescott.
on course and lead the Bulldogs to their 4th
Dak is the more prototypical Spread QB, and is biding his time behind
straight bowl game – a feat that has never been
Russell. Dak accounted for 8 TD's last season (4 running and 4 throw-
done in Mississippi State history?
ing).
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QB – Sr. Tyler Russell (13), holds 7 of the 8 At running back, State returns the whole herd. 5th year Senior LaDarius
major passing records for a single season in MSU history / So. Dak Prescott (0), 4 TD, 0 INT as a freshman
Perkins is the leader of this group. Perkins rushed for 1,024 yards last season and scored 10 TD's (8 rushing, 2 receiving). Perkins is also a borderline NFL draft pick hoping to work his way into next April's draft. The shifty Perkins (5’-10” 195) is a very good runner outside of the tackles and has great hands in the receiving game. Many are looking for him to be more involved in the passing game in 2013 because of his impact there. Perkins is backed up by ‘bowling ball’ Josh Robinson (5’-9” 225), Derrick Milton and Nick Griffin. Robinson showed flashes of being a very good RB, but needs to work on being consistent and his pass blocking. Milton is a natural runner but needs work on ball security and pass blocking. Griffin is a tough runner who has been plagued by injuries throughout
and should play a good bit. Other WR's
his career in Starkville. His return from
factoring in will be Sophomore Joe
knee surgery would be a big, big plus.
Morrow and Redshirt Freshman Fred
Wide Receiver is a huge question
Brown, plus highly touted true Fresh-
mark for the Bulldogs offense going into the year. This group has no start-
man Fred Ross. The Tight End position at State
ers returning. The most experienced
returns some very talented players. The
returnees are Juniors Robert "RoJo"
leader of this group is Junior Malcolm
Johnson and Jameon "Tubby" Lewis.
Johnson. ‘MoJo’, as he has been nick-
These two guys look to be the leaders
named, has very good hands and could
of the receiving corps in 2013. John-
be a real force in the passing game. He
son (17 catches for 164 yards), looks
has gained a little weight also to make
the part at WR and the time is now for
sure he can do a better job of block-
him to show that he can be a play-
ing in the run game. Another junior
maker. Lewis (10 catches – 108 yards)
factoring in at TE is Brandon Hill. Hill
is small but lightning quick. Lewis has
is the better blocker of the two, but he
worked hard to be more consistent and
has good hands also. Christian Holmes
improve ball security and should be
moved to TE from the defensive side
counted on heavily in 2013. He is also
of the ball and has found a new home.
electric in the kick return game. WR
Rufus Warren and Gus Walley also look
Jeremey Chappelle comes in from the
to factor in, making this one of the best
juco ranks to push for playing time
groups of TE's in the SEC.
Schedule Aug. 31
Oklahoma State
Sept. 7
Alcorn State (H)
Sept. 14
Auburn*
Sept. 21
Troy Univ. (H)
Oct. 5
LSU* (H)
Oct. 12
Bowling Green (H)
Oct. 24
Kentucky* (H)
Nov. 2
South Carolina*
Nov. 9
Texas A&M*
Nov. 16
Alabama* (H)
Nov. 23
Arkansas*
Nov. 28
Ole Miss* (H)
*Conference Games Time, results and other information regarding game at hailstate.com.
september
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Finally - a look at the big boys up front that make having a good offense possible. The Bulldogs return not only 5, but 6 starters on the offensive line from last season. Senior leader Tobias Smith looks to play his last season in a limited role to help the team as much as he possibly can. Tobias has battled injuries his entire career, but when healthy, he is a real road grader upfront. Having him back on the field and in a leadership role is huge for this OL. He will be sharing time with Sophomore Justin Malone at Right Guard. Malone started a few games last year and played in all 13. At Left Guard is a Senior and our other leader – Gabe Jackson. Gabe is one of the country's best guards and will be a high draft pick in next April's
LG – Sr. Gabe Jackson (13), pre-season 1st team All-SEC pick / Jr. Ben Beckwith (0), played in 23 out of 26 career games
draft (potentially 1st round). At Left Tackle is Blaine Clausell, now starting for his 3rd season. Clausell has gotten better every season and should have a good junior season. Right Tackle will be manned by Charles Siddoway, who started last season even though he played hurt a lot. Damien Robinson is a junior that could factor in and see significant playing time there also. At Center will be 3 year starter Dillon Day. Day does a great job making calls and plays with a mean streak. Back-ups on the OL include Justin Senior, Ben Beckwith, Dylan Holley,
”
and Archie Muniz. State's OL should be one of the better groups in the SEC this season.
Defense
L
ook for the Bulldogs to employ a much more aggres-
...one can really only expect a return trip to a bowl game.
”
the defensive staff feels his game will fare better on the inside.
sive scheme on defense in 2013 than 2012 under new
Joining him at DT will be PJ Jones. Jones is talented player
defensive coordinator Geoff Collins. Former DC Chris
that had some growing up to do after a 4 game suspension
Wilson liked to play a "read and react", bend but don't break
in 2012. All indications are that he has matured and has been
defense the last two seasons, but that will be thrown to the
working hard to have a good 2013. Rounding out the DL
scrap heap. Collins wants his guys to get in there and create
at weak-side DE will be Junior Preston Smith. Smith led the
“defensive mayhem”. With a more aggressive style, a better
team in sacks last season in limited playing time. After having
pass rush, and talented LB's it's hard not to project the State
a great spring practice, many feel like Smith could really be a
defense as being a very improved unit in 2013.
breakout player for the Bulldogs’ defense this season. Sopho-
The Bulldogs return two starters to the defensive line –
more Ryan Brown, R-Freshman AJ Jefferson, and true Fresh-
end Denico Autry and former end but now tackle Kaleb Eulls
man Chris Jones look to get playing time at DE also. Jones was
(6’-4” 290). Autry really played well the final third of the
one of the country's top recruits for 2013, but he will have
season after transferring in from the juco ranks. He should
to work hard to steal playing time from Brown or Jefferson.
be competing for All-SEC honors at the end of this season.
Other DT's in the mix for playing time are Nick James, Quay
Eulls makes the move from DE to DT. He has done a good job
Evans, and Curtis Virges. The whole DL should be vastly im-
playing the run, but his pass rush skills have been lacking and
proved in 2013 under the new leadership of David Turner.
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Linebacker is another real strength for the Bulldogs in 2013. State returns 2 of 3 starters here. Freshman AllAmerican Benardrick McKinney is the man in the middle. McKinney had a stellar freshman season and is a freakish athlete for his size (6’-5” 235). He plays the run extremely well, but had to work hard this spring on pass coverage. Everyone is expecting big things from him this year. He is backed up by Junior Ferlando Bohanna who is an extremely solid back-up. At Sam (Strong) LB this season will be Deonte Skinner (6’-2” 250) who will be a 3rd year starter
The Bulldog Secondary only returns
Bulldogs, Cornerback has its questions.
for the Bulldogs – but his 1st at ‘Sam’.
one starter, but still has some expe-
The Bulldogs lost Darius Slay and Jim
This is a more natural position for him
rience. Free Safety Nickoe Whitley
Thorpe Award winner Johnthan Banks
and he should excel there in 2013. His
returns for his Senior season. He is
to the NFL draft last year, and had to
back-up will be either Beniquez Brown
considered to be one of the top five
spend this spring finding replacements
or Richie Brown – both of whom
Free-Safeties in the country, and should
for those big shoes. Juco transfer Justin
redshirted but were highly-rated com-
be a mid-round draft pick this com-
Cox won the job at one spot, while last
ing out of high school. Matthew Wells
ing April. He is backed-up by Junior
year's nickel defender, Junior Jamerson
(6’-2” 215) will be the 3rd starter at
Dee Arrington. At Strong Safety, Jay
Love, won the other. These two guys are
LB - playing the weak or ‘Willie’ LB po-
Hughes is the starter. Hughes all but
talented but must be ready to play from
sition. Wells is a hybrid LB/Safety type
wrestled the position away from Corey
the opening snap with Big 12 opponent
of player with a lot of speed. He should
Broomfield the last few games of
Oklahoma State coming up. Also fight-
help the Bulldogs match-up much bet-
last season, but is still short of being
ing for playing time at CB or Nickel
ter with Spread teams this season. He
called a "returning starter". He will be
defender will be Cedric Jiles, Taveze
will be backed-up by Sophomore Zach
backed up by hard-hitting Sophomore
Calhoun, and Will Redmond (after his
Jackson. This group of LB's is worthy of
Kendrick Market. While Safety is a
five game suspension).
being in the top 5 of the SEC.
much more known commodity for the
Special Teams MSU will have one of the best spe-
40-45 yard punts. Devon Bell returns
starting on the opposing 25 yard line.
cial teams in the SEC this year. Many
as the placekicker. As a freshman Bell
Returning kicks could be a number
prognosticators have already said it will
struggled early but really came into
of players including Jameon Lewis,
be the best. One of the strengths is the
his own as the season progressed and
LaDarius Perkins, Robert Johnson or
punting game where Junior Baker Swe-
ended the season hitting 14 of 21 field
Brandon Holloway. Lewis and Holloway
denburg returns. He doesn’t have the
goals. Even better numbers are expected
are small but extremely fast and may
biggest leg but was extremely effective
as he now has a season under his belt,
take over the role permanently as Per-
in preventing return yardage last year
and his big leg will be needed on kick-
kins and Johnson look to have key roles
and was very consistent in getting off
offs to make sure the Bulldog defense is
in the offense this year.
Here in tHe soutH, we taKe taiLg
schedule MSU has played some tough nonconference games in the past against teams like West Virginia, Georgia Tech or even Oklahoma State and Texas in the 1990s, but not too often have they kicked off the year with such a highprofile game as they do this year with Oklahoma State. The game will be before a national television audience on a neutral field in Houston.
Oklahoma ................. OSU is expected to have another good team and it will be a great challenge for State. Many Bulldog fans were
memories of what happened on the
vs. Florida after), and State has a bye the
not happy about scheduling a team
Plains years ago (Chris Relf, 6-inch
week before. It will be a very tough
like Oklahoma State as the schedule
line).
challenge, but Mullen has faired slightly
is daunting in 2013, but a win in this game would put MSU on the map early
Troy ........................
in the season. The youth in the second-
After the Auburn game MSU comes
better than his predecessors in his four previous losses vs. the Bayou Bengals.
Bowling Green .........
ary will be tested early but State also has
home to play Troy. The Bulldogs have
some advantages against the Cowboys
a shaky history with the Trojans which
as well so it may not be as one-sided as
includes a 21-9 loss during a tornado
Green. They won’t be a pushover as they
some experts might have you believe.
in 2001, an 11-8 win the following
welcome 19 starters back from an 8-5
year, and a narrow escape last fall in
team.
Alcorn State .............
Troy, Alabama 30-24. Without a doubt
Homecoming brings in Bowling
Alcorn State makes the short trip to
MSU should win this game, and win
Kentucky ..................
Starkville a week after the Texas Kickoff.
rather easily – but they’ll have to play
After a second week off Kentucky
This should be an easy win for MSU
hard and not look ahead to their plans
will come to Davis Wade on a Thurs-
and it is a good sandwich game
during the open date.
day night. Dan Mullen is 4-0 against
between the tough non-conference opener and the SEC opener the following week at Auburn.
Auburn ..................... The Tigers and Dawgs have really de-
LSU ........................... State will not lay during Week 5 and that is a good thing as they’ll have a full week to prepare for LSU. The Dawgs haven’t beaten the Tigers since 1999
the Wildcats and there is no reason to believe he won’t make it 5-0…and he will need to as the schedule is wretched up a notch after this game.
And then on .............
veloped the rivalry in recent years and
and only once in the last 21 years. But
this early season test is always crucial
if there was ever a year for MSU to win,
year will be a brutal stretch. At South
for both teams – and it could go either
it might be this one. LSU loses a bunch
Carolina is followed by a trip half way
way this year. Auburn will be desper-
of talent on defense, they are coming
across the country to play at Texas A&M.
ate to prove they are back under Gus
to Starkville, this is in the middle of a
That’s the best defensive player in the
Malzahn while State wants to erase the
tough stretch for them (at UGA before,
country, Jadeveon Clowney, followed
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| townandgownmagazine.com
Once again the last five games of the
by the reigning Heisman Trophy winner, Johnny Manziel. If the Bulldogs can manage to win just one of these two games it
EXPECTATIONS Dan Mullen has been able to pro-
non-conference slate features Big 12
will make most of the maroon faithful very
duce a consistent winner at Mississippi
favorite Oklahoma State, a tough MAC
happy.
State during his four years on campus.
team and always pesky Troy.
Alabama .................... Two-time defending national champions
After a string of losing seasons (2001-
When compiling all the information
2006) that brought MSU football to
for this version of the Mississippi State
its lowest depths, he currently has
Bulldogs, one can really only expect a
Alabama will follow that tough road stretch
a chance to bring State to its fourth
return trip to a bowl game. Compet-
when they come to Starkville. MSU hasn’t
consecutive bowl appearance for the
ing and staying in games will be a
beaten the Tide since 2007, Nick Saban’s
first time in history – all done within
mark to look for, and it could lead to
first year as head coach.
his first five years on the job.
the elusive “statement” game Mullen
Arkansas ................... Week 13 features a game at Arkansas, a
More great news is ahead – Davis
has been looking for in recent years.
Wade Stadium is being expanded and
With predictions comes a lot of un-
renovated, the new Seal Football Com-
knowns for each team, but we expect
place Mississippi State has never won….
plex opened in January, recruiting has
MSU to be at least 7-5 in 2013.
literally. There was a tie (13-13) in 1993
continually gotten better each year,
but that is as close as the Dawgs have come,
and now 2013 brings Mullen’s most
either in Fayetteville or Little Rock. But
talented team to date.
there’s a kicker – MSU has also never lost to
almost must look at what the SEC
year Bret Bielema takes over. In fact, State’s
will throw your way with regards to
only wins against the Razorbacks in the last
scheduling. And this year, the road is
18 years have been against 1st year Arkansas
awfully tough for MSU. Alabama, LSU,
coaches (1998, 2008, 2012).
Texas A&M and South Carolina are
The final game of the year might be the
year of football. Hail State!
Despite great talent, however, you
a first year head coach of Arkansas, and this
Ole Miss ....................
It should be a great and exciting
all expected to compete for the SEC Championship (which also means national championship), and they are
biggest – the Egg Bowl. This rivalry has had
all on the docket for MSU. Ole Miss, new life breathed into it with the emergence Auburn, Arkansas and Kentucky are of Dan Mullen and now Hugh Freeze. 2012 expected to trend up in 2013. The was the first year since 2000 that both MSU and Ole Miss went to bowl games in the same year. 2013 looks to accomplish the same feat, which sets this game on a higher pedestal. What’s more, the game returns to Thanksgiving night where it once had a national stage from 1998-2003. The game should be as intense as ever, and will have huge implications on bowl positioning, recruiting, and of course bragging rights. Starkville will play host this year – the home team has won 12 of the last 14 (2003, 2010), and 15 of 22 since it moved away from Jackson in 1991. september
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HOME AND GARDEN
DIY with Amy Taylor
Penny Art
Taylor, a Petal native and Starkville resident, is a Southern Mississippi graduate where she earned a Bachelor degree in broadcast journalism and obtained a Master’s degree in Agricultural and Extension Education from Mississippi State University. She is an avid do-it-yourself crafter, artist and has a passion for home design and projects.
Join us in creating DIY projects. Send in your Penny Art or new ideas to info@ townandgownmagazine.com. Twitter: @townandgownmag1 Facebook: TownandGownMag
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| townandgownmagazine.com
H
ere’s a unique project the will help make use of those extra pennies many of us have. Not only does this serve as an art
piece, but placing the item in the garden can help deter snails!
Option 1
Materials
Option 2
Materials: Anything you can spray paint and glue pennies to – glass jars, vases, gazing balls for the garden, even old bowling balls. Fast-drying super glue Spray paint, the color of your choice
Instructions: 1.Spray paint the glass piece and let dry. 2. Attach pennies using
Option 3
fast-drying super glue. *Additional tip: You will probably want to clean the pennies before you start. One way is to soak them for several hours in CocaCola, stirring occasionally so the liquid reaches each penny. You can also give the pennies extra shine by cleaning them with household cleaner.
Kitchen • Entertaining • Gifts • Bridal Registry • Demonstrations • Classes
402 Lampkin Street • Starkville, MS 39759 • (662) 323.5979 september
2013 |
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It’s a
Southern Thing
...to be the perfect host/hostess of a tailgate. By Lor en Gambr ell
S
o everyone knows that you don’t go to a tailgate to wine and dine with a high class waiter, neither do you sit in the grass and eat from over a
fire. Tailgating is the happy medium. It’s more like camping meets sportsbar, rather than one or the other. To be the perfect host/hostess of the perfect tailgate one must consider five things:
The perfect tailGATE is when ev-
or similar dishes being made by differ-
eryone invited knows the DATE.
ent people. Still keep the variety going between snacks, dips, desserts, etc.
All your guests, may it be friends, family, or both, need to know the date of
The perfect tailGATE is when the
the event; therefore, as the host/host-
tent and its members portray a
ess you should send out a date card or
certain TRAIT.
kids – like find the nearest man with a
message through social media to announce when the tailgate we will be.
As the host/hostess, you should bring
hotdog in hand, or find the nearest girl
As well as the date, the guests will also
some simple decorations to show the
that’s pulling for the opposite team.
need to know time and location of
team-spirit of you and your guests.
Something fun to keep everyone light
tailgate. Maybe even include a simple,
No not streamers or balloons, but the
and having fun until the game begins.
team-spirited map of the location in
paper napkins can be the color of your
correspondence to the parking lot or
team, and the tablecloth could have
The perfect tailGATE is when you
other major land markers.
your team’s mascot on it. Maybe even
all get to see your team play out
bring some foam fingers, a team flag,
their FATE.
The perfect tailGATE is when
or even some face paint. Just a few
food is on everyone’s PLATE.
simple team-spirited traits among the
Watching the game is what your
tent will keep the spirits high through-
guests have been waiting for all day, so
out the day.
make sure everything is set up cor-
Food is a must! Make sure that there
rectly. Make sure the power source for
is enough food. One way is to make a variation of food, this way everyone
The perfect tailGATE is when
the television is reliable, the antenna/
likes at least something on the table.
guests have a fun way to WAIT.
dish is set perfectly, so when it’s time for kick-off, there is no mishap, and
The second way is to simply make the tailgate a potluck. Have everyone bring
Keep the guests entertained while
set up the television in a place where
their own dish. If you opt for the sec-
waiting for the game to begin is with
all your guests can arrange themselves
ond option, make sure that, as host/
games. Cornhole is a good
to see it. No one wants a second row
hostess, you don’t have the same dish
example. Cards is another. Also, you
seat at their own tailgate.
What is a Southern Thing to you? Email, tweet or comment on our Facebook and let us know. (info@townandgownmagazine.com, @townandgownmag1, TownandGownmag) 30
could make a scavenger hunt for the
| townandgownmagazine.com
Christina Lucas, Louisiana native and Starkville resident, is employed at ERA Town & Campus Realty. She loves to cook and create simple, wholesome recipes. She is a yoga enthusiast, loves to paint, and has a passion for keeping life simple and enjoyable. You can follow her on Pinterest @christinalucas.
Southern Roots for the Perfect Tailgate Pho t os b y Divian Conner
august
2013 |
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F
ootball tailgating time always makes me thankful for my southern roots. I think we southerners do tailgating
with such flair; it's more than football and beer, it's an event all to itself. I always have a few homemade crowd favorites that I will share with you readers. Plus, I got permission to share my husband's favorite recipe for Black Bean Salsa! I also love to utilize all the great vendors around town! Merle Norman Luna Bella has great dips and cheese ball mixes that only require 1 or 2 ingredients that you probably have in your fridge. Plus, The Cake Box does it all, creating beautiful themed cupcakes, petits fours, brownies, and even Coach Mullins' favorite: the chocolate chip cookie! I hope you enjoy these recipes and tailgating ideas!
Black Bean Salsa
1 can black beans,
1/4 cup olive oil
drained
1/4 cup sugar
1 can shoepeg corn,
2 tbsp. Tiger Sauce
drained Mix all ingredients to-
1 red bell pepper, diced
gether. Chill for at least
1 red onion, diced
1 hour to let the flavors
1/2 cup apple cider
distribute. Serve with
vinegar
tortilla chips.
r’s
Choice
Choice | townandgownmagazine.com
Edito
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r’s
Edit o
1 green bell pepper, diced
1.
2.
3.
Cheesy Bacon Dip Creating Wind and Willow’s Cheesy Bacon Dip was so simple. I added mayonnaise and sour cream to the dip mix and stirred until all the ingredients were combined. Then refrigerated overnight! Thanks, Merle Norman Luna Bella for a simple chip dip!
4. 1. Metal “Go Dawgs” cowbell, Giggleswick 2.Wind Willow Dips, Merele Norman Bella Luna 3. MSU-style flower arangement, Bloom Flowers & Boutique 4. MSU decorated cupcakes and petits fours, The Cake Box SEPTEMBER
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Hawaiian Ham and Cheese Sandwiches 1 package Hawaiian bread rolls 1 lb. smoked ham 1 lb. Swiss cheese 1 stick butter, melted 1/3 cup brown sugar 3 tbsp. Dijon mustard Preheat oven to 300 degrees. Cut the Hawaiian bread rolls in half. Assemble each
1.
roll with ham, Swiss cheese, and Dijon
Strawberry Kabobs
mustard. Place together in large baking dish. Melt a stick of butter, then add brown sugar. Pour butter mixture on top of each roll. Place in oven for 20-25 minutes. Best served warm; but they are so good, it does not matter to a hungry crowd! Enjoy! 1 package strawberries, washed and stems cut away large marshmallows 1/2 cup chocolate chips, melted wooden skewers Assemble the strawberries and marshmallows on skewers. Use a fork to drizzle the
2.
�
1. Chalkboard cheese board, Purple Elephant 2.Metal Bulldog, Merle Norman Bella Luna 3. MSU-decorated cupcakes, chocolate chip cookie sandwiches, turtle cookies with chocolate topping, and chocolate dipped strawberry footballs, The Cake Box 4. MSU/Starkville hand towl, Giggleswick
Dan Mullen is the chocolate chip man. -The Cake Box
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�
chocolate on top. Refrigerate for at least
3.
30 minutes to let the chocolate set.
4.
TOWN & GOWN
MAGAZINE JUNE 2013
Thanks to
The Cake Box Bloom Flowers and Boutique for providing their services for “Southern Roots for the Perfect Tailgate”
september
2013 |
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Paint it in:
Maroon &
White Pho t og r aph y b y Laur a Daniels
F
ootball season is upon us. Everywhere you look you see people preparing for the next big game. You buy your
ticket and all of your tailgating supplies and on game day you head out to the field. I love to see all the Maroon and White covering Starkville more and more as game day approaches. What you might not know is all the preparation that goes on year round for football season, in particular the football field itself. The actual football field is often overlooked by fans. I have had the opportunity to walk out on Mississippi State University’s football field and it was truly something. Maybe because the view is so different than up in
Russell Hamilton graduated from Mississippi State University with a major in horticulture and is has been the owner of Deep Roots Nursery for over 13 years.
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| townandgownmagazine.com
the stands or maybe because of my horticulture background I have some idea of what all it takes to produce a field as nice as this. If you ever get the chance to visit it on ground level you should do it. And yea run out for an imaginary pass to get a good feel for what 10 or 20 yards really is. You will want to do it again. Built in 1914 and later named Davis Wade Stadium in 2000, Mississippi State University’s stadium is one of the oldest stadiums in college football. Lots of traditions come from a field that has been with a university that long. Lots of work has gone into it as well. I have to give Bart Prather and his crew props for how well they keep that field looking game after game. I asked Bart out of curiosity about what kind of man hours go into getting the football field ready for game day. His crew spends 2.5 to 3 days just to paint the field for the next game. They use a special water based paint that is safe for the turf and doesn’t harm it. During peak seasons they mow the field 5-6 times. Now that is manicuring. Bart also informed me about what type of turf is used for the field. There has only been one change in the type of turf since Bart has managed the field. It is currently Tifway 419 Hybrid Bermuda. Fans got to see something truly unique that Bart and his crew painted on the field in 2011. In the north end zone they painted #HAILSTATE instead of Mississippi State. MSU was the first college to put a twitter hashtag on the field. Several other colleges soon copied the idea. Fans loved it as social media ran off with tweets from the games. It remained painted on the field during the 2012 football season. The bad news is that if you haven’t noticed it painted on the field already you won’t get another chance to see it in person anytime soon. Thanks to a ruling from the NCAA Football Rules Committee there can be no advertisements on the field including now Twitter Hashtags. Bart told me that they were going back to painting Mississippi State on the field in place of the #HAILSTATE. Next time you are at a MSU home football game take a good hard look at the field. You will easily notice the wonder and work that is put into it for the fans and players. And if you get to meet Bart or some of his crew shake their hand for the hard work they put into the athletic fields for us as fans. september
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TASTE AND TOAST
Quench the Thirst ....
By Lisa LaFont aine Bynum
Pigskin Punch for a Crowd
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| townandgownmagazine.com
E
oic
or’s Ch d it
E
ce oi
e
or’s Ch d it
H
ere in the South, we take tailgating as seri-
ously as if our team wins or loses the game. No matter what color jersey you are pulling for, these refreshing drinks will make sure you stay hydrated well after the clock runs out.
T-formation 1/2 oz. whiskey 1/4 oz. peach schnapps 2 oz. apricot nectar 2 oz. lemonade Squeeze of half a lemon Combine all ingredients. Pour over ice in a highball glass. Stir. Garnish glass with a lemon wheel.
Serves 15-18
Place sugar with lemon and orange
1/2 cup granulated sugar
juices in pitcher or punch bowl.
4 oz. cranberry juice
Stir. Add grenadine and whis-
6 oz. orange juice
key. Stir again. Add club soda just
4 oz. Grenadine
before serving. Garnish individual
1 L. whiskey
cups with mint leaves. For a non-
1 L. club soda
alcoholic version leave out the
Mint leaves
whiskey and use tea instead. september
2013 |
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Kid’s Kid’s Sparkling Sparkling Sangria Sangria
GET TO KNOW Lisa LaFontaine Bynum
Combine sliced apples, strawberries, oranges, and frozen grapes to in a large pitcher. Add sparkling grape juice.
Lisa LaFontaine Bynum is a freelance writer from Grenada, Miss. Her work has appeared in several publications in Mississippi. She is a graduate of Delta State University where she received a BA in Marketing and her MBA. In her free time, she enjoys food writing and photography and documents her culinary happenings on her blog The Cooking Bride (thecookingbride.com). She currently resides in Brandon with her husband and son. 40
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Stir.
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WHERE THE WIND BLOWS Forrest Blackbourn is a Lecturer of Spanish at Mississippi State University and a Ph.D. Candidate in Romance Languages at The University of Alabama. His critical, creative, and journalistic works have appeared in The Coastal Review, Vision 2011: Paying It Forward, and Divergencias: Revista de estudios linguísticos y literarios.
The Local CulinaryExrience Various Excellent Remedies for This Fall Business Pho t os b y Lindse y Nor man
A
s fall is yet again upon us, even though it still
can be an ordeal. People have lives that are not related
feels painfully like summer, we are thinking
to Mississippi State Football, yet they sacrifice their
about Mississippi State football. Which games
weekends in the fall to support their alma mater and to
will be the most and the least challenging for the team?
spend time with family and friends who they otherwise
However, our thoughts are not limited to the outcomes
may not see apart from Thanksgiving, Christmas, and
of competitions on Scott Field in Davis Wade Stadium.
weddings. Not only is traveling an ordeal, but despite
Rather, we think about buying a new tent, cooking food,
how fun it is, tailgating can tend to be rather involved.
and how to link our flat-screen television to the nearest
Whether you reside in Starkville or elsewhere, it requires
power source to the areas on campus that are understood
preparation. You may get off of work at five on a Friday
to be ours on game days. We also anticipate the time of
afternoon and have two hours to pack and cook before
kickoffs every week, because this time will ultimately
you and your family and friends head to Starkville. If you
determine whether we cook cheese biscuits and sausage
reside in Starkville, your preparation might be a bit easier,
loaf or bratwursts and brisket; whether we partake in
but perhaps your group expects more from you because
coffee, mimosas, and bloody marys or coke, beer, and
you live in town. Despite whether you come from near
whiskey.
or afar, life tends to happen, and you may not be able to
When I say “we,” I am referring to the Mississippi State
“get it together” to tailgate for a particular game. Maybe
Football community. Despite the fact that we are engaged
it was a tough week at work. Perhaps the people with
in the same community that is similar to other fan bases
whom you typically tailgate are not going to make that
yet maintains its uniqueness, many of us come from dif-
game for whatever reason. Your son or daughter may be
ferent places on Friday afternoons or Saturday mornings
playing in a late game on Friday night. Whatever the case
to see the Bulldogs walk through the junction and battle
may be, there are options other than spending a great
against, as is almost always the case in the Southeastern
deal of time preparing for a Saturday tailgate.
Conference, a very worthy opponent. Some of us reside
I enjoy tailgating immensely. However, in this article I
in Jackson, Biloxi, Tupelo, or Hattiesburg, while others
am going to suggest three restaurant choices in Starkville
live in Atlanta, New Orleans, Memphis, Birmingham,
where you and your entourage can eat and socialize be-
Houston, Dallas, or any number of other places. Traveling
fore, during, and/or after the game. september
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Old Venice Since its founding in 1999 as the first restaurant on Main
Street, this is certainly a Starkville favorite to indulge in a
Martin also spoke of the atmosphere of the establishment.
hearty Italian meal and a glass of Banfi chianti superiore or,
He boasted the members of his staff who he described as
if beer is your poison, perhaps a Peroni Nastro Azzurro; a
“knowledgeable about food, drinks, Starkville, and Mississip-
“birra superiore d’italia.” With a traditional Italian menu
pi State.” This staff is important to provide customers with
in addition to a design-your-own pizza option with several
a “comfortable environment” and an “at-home, laid-back
choices of bases and endless options for toppings, Old Venice
experience” that also include “food that is prepared with a
is a great place for a post-game sit-down dinner with family
great deal of care and meticulousness.” Old Venice certainly
and friends. Even after a night game in Starkville, Missis-
has a myriad of excellent culinary and beverage options. I
sippi, there would be something molto italiano about eating
have enjoyed the Chicken parmigiana a time or two, but my
an elaborate meal at eleven o’clock.
typical meal choice is an individual pizza with a tomato base
However, this marvelous establishment is not just about
and Cajun chicken, Andouille sausage, and shrimp. In terms
providing its patrons with an Italian experience. Mar-
of beverage choices, I usually go for a Sam Adams Boston
tin Crawford, General Manager of Starkville’s Old Venice,
Lager, Stella Artois, Peroni, or an Absolut Dirty Martini.
explained that one of the restaurant’s missions is to provide
42
Italian with unique twists on homemade pizzas."
Old Venice also has the Burgundy Room, which is adorned
customers with an experience that, if the restaurant were
with a copper-plated bar. This bar is renown in Starkville and
transplanted in Venice, Italy, it would be considered as an
surrounding areas for its bellinis and martinis, and it pro-
accepted member of the local culinary tradition in addition
vides an intimate, classy atmosphere to partake in a libation.
to possessing a unique aesthetic that takes certain departures
However, on game day, it is not always about being bour-
from traditional Italian cuisine. For example, Mr. Crawford
geois. Sometimes it is about having fun. With their projec-
alluded to the “Cajun and American influences” that play a
tion screen and new addition of a dartboard, a bar-top game,
role in the culinary experience at Old Venice, which is inte-
and a pizza oven, it is also a great place to swoop in for a
gral with their ability to provide customers with “authentic
beer, a slice, and a “Hail State.”
| townandgownmagazine.com
Do you like some of the go-to,
mitted aliases “Oby” or “Tyrone,”
signature Cajun dishes like red
he indicated that most of the
beans and rice, jambalaya, and
antiques are authentic and that he
gumbo? How do you feel about
has been “collecting [them] over
muffulettas, po-boys, fried catfish,
the years.” However, he also said,
and hushpuppies? Oby’s is very
“I don’t waste my time anymore
well-known by anyone who
with antiques. All the good stuff
has spent even a short amount
is gone.” As of right now, it seems
of time in Starkville. With its
as if the collection is complete.
grandiose booths and tables, you
On the other hand, one of the
will not have much trouble find-
most marvelous things about the
ing enough space to seat all the
acquisition of antiques is that
members of your party before or
growth in its market parallels the
after a football game. Also, as a
passing of time.
result of its open environment,
The feel of this place that Mr.
it is the kind of place where you
O’Bannon referred to as a “fam-
would be apt to bump into your
ily restaurant” is the reason that
cousin-in-law; a term that one
people walk in the door and keep
may not hear much outside of the
coming back. He stated that cus-
state of Mississippi and which I
tomers come “For the food, the
confess to having used on more
service, and for the atmosphere.”
than one occasion. At this staple
In fact, when I sat down to talk
of the Starkville culinary sensibil-
to Don about the restaurant, he
ity, you could also bump into an
stopped the interview several
old friend from college and have
times to shake the hands of his
the opportunity to meet his or her
customers and to chitchat with
spouse and children and catch up
them for a few minutes. This is
on other life developments since
a prime example of the superior
“the good old days.”
customer service that patrons
One of the most notable char-
experience at the very moment
acteristics that sets Oby’s apart
that they walk in the front door.
from other culinary experiences
Regarding the way in which the
in Starkville is the antiquity of its
food is prepared, Mr. O’Bannon
décor. From seasoned, tin coke
said that they “fix it the way you
signs to a gas station pump that
want it” and “refuse to compro-
was modified to fit in the din-
mise quality for time.”
ing room, this restaurant has an
Oby’s
If you are looking for some-
invaluable collection of cultural
where to eat before or after a
artifacts that tend to engender
Mississippi State football game,
conversations between members
you may want to consider head-
of different generations regarding
ing over to Oby’s for an experi-
how things used to be versus how
ence that reflects the kind and
things are now. In interviewing
paced lifestyle that those who love
Donald O’Bannon, whom you
Starkville cherish.
may know by one of his self-adaugust
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The Veranda
This is another excellent gameday restaurant choice, and it is proudly celebrating its “Tenth Year of Flavor.” This es-
Mrs. Yates described the culinary experience at The Ve-
tablishment possesses four distinct areas for various dining
randa as “American fair with Southern inspiration” and that
experiences without compromising the flow of the space as
they “have a wide variety of things on the menu, [such as]
a whole. The bar functions as a sports bar where one can
sandwiches, salads, pastas, steak, and seafood.” For before
get together with his or her friends to cheer on the bulldogs
a Mississippi State football game, patrons can come in and
and to catch up on football games from around the South-
order a sandwich, a po-boy, or one of my personal favor-
eastern Conference and the entire nation. It also serves as
ites, the Kobe burger. They also serve bloody marys, beer,
a venue for quiet discussions among young professionals
and mimosas before the game. In fact, The Veranda is also
either for happy hour after work or a nightcap. The main
serving what it terms a “Man Mimosa” which is frankly a
dining room consists of high booths, providing a bit more
mimosa in a pint glass instead of a champagne flute. After
privacy for a small family dinner or date night. The Veranda
football games, you can come into the bar and watch an
also has a private dining room for a formal dinner setting
SEC game on one of the many high-definition, flat-screen
and a patio that is a popular choice for wedding rehearsal
TVs at the same time and place that the Fifth Quarter Show
dinners and also offers, when the weather is temperate, a
is broadcast throughout the state of Mississippi with hosts
cool and breezy dining experience. Amy Yates, co-owner of
Matt Wyatt and Bart Gregory.
the restaurant, said that they “like to have fun music, friend-
44
create a great dining experience.”
On game days, regardless of whether you a looking for
ly and personal service, and an all-around fun and positive
a quiet, elegant meal or a loud, boisterous party with close
atmosphere.” She described the staff as “fun” and “eager
friends, you may want to consider coming to The Veranda;
to serve,” and she expressed the importance of ingraining
a place “where Bulldogs meet and eat” and where there are
a team dynamic from the outset of employee training in
several experiences that are appealing to a variety of tastes
order to “serve everyone a great meal, a great drink, and to
and moods.
| townandgownmagazine.com
In the South, fall Saturdays are all about football. But, it is much more than that. It is about fellowship with family
Fashion . Beauty . Food . Lifestyle
and friends. Tailgating is a very important part of the football Saturday experience. However, if this fall business has made your life so hectic that you may not have time or simply may not want to spend hours cooking prior to hours traveling to Starkville, you can certainly find a place to eat and have a good time with the ones that you love. Maybe the tailgating tradition will be replaced with a new one.
î ¤
Top 5 Dishes
Old Venice Selected by Restaurant
Chicken Parmigiana
Spinach and Artichoke Dip
Oby’s Lasagna
Chicken Tuscany Pizza Trausclaire Pasta
Shrimp Po-boy
Roast Beef Po-boy Alligator Po-boy
The Veranda Muffuletta
Around the World Sandwich
MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2013
Seared Ahi Tuna
Stockyard Angus Steaks Gorgonzola Salad Salmon
Shrimp and Grits
is everywhere you go!
The
Football Issue
Online now at townandgownmagazine.com
september
2013 |
45
Moving into the Present
Access to records and physicians through your (de)vices. By For r es t Blac kbour n
T
he world is changing.
Whereas at one point in time, writing letters was an art and spelling was checked by going to the dictionary (which was a book on a shelf), now we have the luxury and often the crutch of a red, squiggly line under a word and the right-click option. Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Snapchat, and email allow us in the 21st Century to interact with others regardless of space and despite its previously corresponding time restraints. Mail is called snail mail. Students have access to grades, classes,
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and class registration online rather than in previous years when grades were mailed, all classes were conducted face-toface, and class registration involved a very long line. The Dewey Decimal System, which was at one time one of the greatest systems for the classification of resources, has become outdated by highpowered databases with boxes with a variety of search parameters and, in many cases, electronic access to full text.
Prior to the Obama administration, however, the medi-
“get you scheduled with the right doctor for your problem.”
cal field was drastically behind the curve in regard to the
Another notable benefit of this app is that it expedites the
electronic access to records. How do we make appointments
referral process and makes it considerably less costly for the
with a physician? We call the doctor’s office. How do we
patient.
discover the results of a test? We make an appointment and
However, Dr. Jones also stated that “your comfort will
meet with the doctor or the results are communicated to us
dictate your use of this.” Access to records electronically can
through a phone call. The world is changing.
make some people uneasy. However, he made it extremely
In a July 16, 2013 article in USA Today, David Jackson
clear that “your information is just as protected in this app
wrote, “The goals of electronic medical records include
as it is at our clinic.” For that matter, as a result of login and
better and faster exchanges of information between doctors
password security, your medical records are just as protected
who share a patient, reducing a duplication of tests and pro-
in this app as your educational records, your bank accounts,
cedures, eliminating errors on prescriptions, and providing
your credit card information, and your communication-
patients with quicker access to their own records.” These
based accounts.
are goals that Columbus Orthopaedic Clinic
The Columbus Orthopaedic Clinic and
and Outpatient Center are trying to
Outpatient Center is certainly not stat-
meet with their new app available
ing that communication with them
in Android and iPhone markets that Dr.
must be conducted through the use
Scott Jones termed “the first, compre-
of their app. You can still call the
hensive, electronic healthcare app in the
office and make an appointment,
state of Mississippi.” In an interview
fill out forms in their waiting
with him in which I inquired as to the
room, and write a check as you
reasons behind the vision of the devel-
leave. The development of this app,
opment of the app, he stated that “we
however, enables care to be even
wanted a better way for our patients to
more patient-centered and allows
communicate with us” and that “we’re
patients to access their records and
trying to make it quick, seamless, easy,
interact with their doctors in a way
and efficient.” The Columbus Ortho-
in which patients are comfortable.
pedic group is streamlining the flow of
After all, the records belong to the
information in order to optimize the
patients.
care for patients through minimizing
Dr. Jones also indicated that this
the time that they are required to spend
app is monitored during business
in the clinic filling out forms that they
hours. If an orthopedic emergency
can fill out just as easily electronically
arises, patients should call their office
prior to their appointment.
and the on-call physician and/or go
Some of the things that you can do with the app are request an appointment, view your records if you are a returning patient, access the biographical data
to the emergency room rather than submitting a query through the app. Through the development of this app, The Columbus
of the physicians in the group, input your insurance and
Orthopaedic Clinic and Outpatient Center has hit the
pharmacy information, and pay your bill with a credit card.
ground running and surpassed the technology curve that is
However, this is certainly not a comprehensive list of the ca-
ever-changing and, in many cases, dictates our lives. Is the
pabilities of the app. Physicians, physical therapists, trainers,
technological revolution in the world in which we reside
and patients can also take a picture of the orthopedic issue
progressive or degenerative? I will leave that up to you to
that you are having and receive a recommendation from one
decide. However, the world is changing and will continue
of the doctors. According to Dr. Jones, this enables them to
to do so.
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HEALTH AND BEAUTY
Game Day Beauty Secrets
It’s time to break out our maroon and white outfits and cheer for the Bulldogs! Game day is usually a long day full of excitement. You might leave the house looking fresh, but after a
Christine Tibbett Christine Tibbett, Starkville resident, is an MSU graduate with a Bachelors degree in Apparel, Textiles, and Merchandising. She studied makeup artistry at the Atlanta Makeup Academy, and she is a licensed Esthetician (skin care specialist). Tibbett also owns Christine’s Couture, and in her spare time, she loves spending time outdoors, exercising, and has a passion for helping others look and feel their best.
Mini hair spray Lip gloss Stick concealer Blotting papers First blot your face to remove any oil and then apply the concealer only where it’s needed and blend. Reapply lip gloss and done!
few hours in The Junction, you find yourself looking frazzled with makeup running down your face. Not a good look! With our help, you’ll be fresh and glowing from the time you set up your tent until long after the game has finished.
The hair spray works wonders for taming your fly-aways, but did you know spraying your face with a little hair spray will prevent sweating?! Cream clutch, $54 L.A. Green Boutique.
Arbonne Makeup Primer, $38 www.arbonne.com; Merle Norman Lasting Foundation, SPF 12, $29, Merle Norman Luna Bella; Tarte Amazonian Clay Waterproof Concealer, $22 Ulta; Merle Norman Expert Touch Finishing Spray, $17 Merle Norman Luna Bella; Amy Head Eye Primer, $20 Vitality; Lancome Le Style Waterproof Long Lasting Eye Liner in Prune, $26 Sephora; Amy Head Firecracker Lip Sparklette, $20 Vitality; Neutrogena Deep Clean Blotting Sheets, $7.29 Drug Stores; Catwalk Finishing Spray, $5 Salon 28.
Tips 1 Keep your colors and application
Face
light. Anything dark or drastic will look too harsh in the daylight. Stay away from powders for touchups because they can look cakey and overdone.
2 Before heading to campus, begin your day with a focus on your inner fin Smoothie from Peak Nutrition containing 24 vitamins & minerals and 24 grams of protein! This will provide your body with sustained energy and promote a healthy complexion.
3 Don’t forget to remove your makeup and wash your face at the end of the day!
Lips
Eyes
body health. Try a Blueberry Muf-
Face: Start by applying a
Eyes: Since eye shadows
Lips: Dust your lips with a
primer to your entire face.
tend to crease in humid
translucent powder before
Use waterproof concealer
weather, it’s important to
applying a lip stain that is
under your eyes and on
prep the delicate skin with
2 shades darker than your
any blemishes. Next, use
an eye primer. For an all-
natural lip color. Top with a
an oil-free, long-lasting
day look, light eye shadow
foundation. Then, using a
colors in powder form are
large brush, apply bronze
your best bet because they
powder to your cheeks,
won’t fade or run. Apply
forehead and nose. Fin-
a shimmery cream color
ish with a makeup setting
to your brow bone and a
spray.
neutral shade (taupe, gold,
*
*
tinted lip gloss. “I use make
up wedges when
applying foundation. This helps to prevent transferring oil to my face from
or bronze) to your entire eyelid. Follow up by lining
my fingers and get-
the eyes with a water-proof
ting the foundation
“Right before I get
eyeliner and finish with
on my clothes.” Ann
out of the shower, I
two coats of waterproof
Hamilton Dogan, 22,
blast myself with cold
mascara – waterproof for-
water to ensure shiny
mulas won’t run and you
hair and tighten the
never know when you’re
pores on my face. It
going to get caught in the
also helps wake me
rain! For a more festive
up!” Audrey Mott,
look, try an eye liner in
26, Horticulture.
maroon, which is universally flattering!
*
Merchandising. "I always use
primer and finish-
ing spray and keep beauty blotters on hand for the Southern heat!" Casie Mahalitc, 23, Business Management. september
2013 |
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The Voice of the Network By Joe Lee Pho t og r aph y b y Divian Conner and Laur a Daniels
J
im Ellis considered working in a ministerial capacity with youth while in Graduate School forty years ago. But advice from
a professional baseball announcer helped the future Voice of the Bulldogs determine what he wanted to do with his life. “I got through at Mississippi State in 1969 and taught school in Aberdeen in 1970,” said Ellis, a graduate of West Point High School who grew up in Clay County. “While I was in Texas I talked to the Rangers play-by-play man, Dick Risenhoover, about what I really wanted to do, and he said, ‘You’re over-educated for the job already. You need to get some experience.’ That conversation made me think, ‘I really might want to do that.’” Ellis returned to Mississippi for good in 1973. He went back to teaching to support his family, but he looked for play-by-play opportunities and was given a chance by a Columbus radio station to broadcast the Dizzy Dean World Series, which featured teams from several states.
september
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Jim Ellis, Jack Cristil (former MSU radio sports bradcaster) and John Correro (MSU sideline analyst).
“I called a bunch of games over a ten-day period,” Ellis
area: Hatley, Smithville, Amory,” Ellis said. “Sales did not
said. “That was my first broadcasting experience. I taped all
come naturally to me at all. But Jim Buffington was a very
the games and knew I wasn’t very good, but I got enough
professional guy in the way he ran the radio station and the
encouragement from folks to want to keep going. I realized
sales aspect. He felt we should be very involved in the com-
that if I was going to get into radio, I needed to make a
munity. I learned a lot from him and worked hard, and we
career decision. It was impossible to do what I wanted to do
did tons of basketball, football and baseball games.
and teach school at the same time.” Ellis was hired in the summer of 1974 by Jim Buffington,
“I remember listening back to my first football broadcast and almost quit on the spot. But if you’re willing to work
the station manager of WMPA-AM and WHAY-FM in Ab-
at things, you can usually get better at them. I spent a lot of
erdeen. He was brought in to sell advertising and broadcast
time trying to be distinct in what I said. I don’t have a big,
sporting events, and the play-by-play opportunities were
deep radio voice, and I have a Southern accent, but I try to
endless.
articulate things.”
“They were doing broadcasts for a lot of schools in the
Buffington had a Saturday morning ritual of picking up Jim Ellis and Bart Gregory, Radio Broadcaster for Mississippi State University.
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mail at the post office before going to the radio station,
have the utmost respect for him. He has been a dear friend a
where he met Ellis for the first time in March 1973.
lot of years.”
“Jim explained that he’d sat in the stands at a high school
“Jim really hasn’t changed,” Cristil said of Ellis. “I was
basketball playoff game the night before and recorded play-
blessed to work with him over a period of 32 years. (From
by-play of the game,” Buffington said. “He asked if I would
the beginning) he was intelligent and you could count on
listen to the tape and critique it for him. I told him I was
him. He developed into an excellent broadcaster.”
not a play-by-play announcer, but would be glad to offer
The timing of Ellis’s move to Starkville couldn’t have been
what few tips I could. Almost precisely one year later Jim
better when it came to MSU baseball. The team reached the
was in the lobby of the radio station. He had recorded an-
College World Series in his first year (1979), and the 1985
other playoff game and asked me to listen. It was very good
squad featured future major league stars Will Clark, Rafael
and I was very impressed.”
Palmeiro, Jeff Brantley, and Bobby Thigpen.
All the local broadcasts in Aberdeen paid off in Ellis’s
“Relationships with the coaches have been great,” Ellis
move to Starkville in the fall of 1978. Joe Phillips Sr., who
said. “Coach Polk and Coach (John) Cohen and Coach (Pat)
put WSSO-AM on the air in Starkville shortly after World
McMahon have all been great to work with. We spend so
War II, was suddenly without a sports announcer when
much time together on the road in baseball, and you really
Mark Albin left for Virginia. Albin broadcast MSU baseball,
get to know the players and coaches better.
MSU Lady Bulldog basketball, and Starkville High School
That family atmosphere has been great.”
football.
“Jim is a legend in the broadcasting community and I
“Aberdeen and Starkville played every year in football,
was very fortunate to have played here while he called my
and I got a call from Joe,” Ellis said. “What he had to do –
games,” Cohen said. “Radio was so big back then and MSU
without a broadcaster – was take the feed from Starkville
had the largest radio network in college baseball. Jim was –
High’s opponent each week to have their games on the
and is – the voice of the network. He was a pioneer of sorts
air, and he wanted to broadcast my call of the Aberdeen-
in college baseball.
Starkville game over his station. About three weeks later
“He’s so well-liked and appreciated because he is a model
Starkville and Shannon were going to play in the Little Ten
of consistency. He does his homework and knows what the
Conference championship game. Joe called and asked if I
big things are. He works as hard today as he did when I was
would go to Shannon and broadcast that game and feed it
a player. He does an amazing job of presenting as much
to him.
information as possible about the player and the program.”
“Then he said he needed a baseball announcer and asked me to send him a tape. It was two weeks before I heard back, but he called and said, ‘That’s not too bad. I need to
Many beloved names come up in conversation when Ellis looks back on the early days of his broadcast career. “Bo Carter was the assistant to Sports Information Direc-
talk to (then MSU head baseball coach) Ron Polk. I’ll call
tor Bob Hartley when I was hired,” Ellis said. “Mr. Hartley
you back.’ He did and said, ‘Coach Polk said you’d do.’”
was a people person and very kind; I never knew anyone
Ellis was named WSSO/WSMU-FM sales manager and
who disliked him. Bo was really good and efficient. Joe Dier
sports director and stayed over a decade, calling hundreds
(who just retired from MSU as an assistant A.D.) and I were
of Starkville High football and MSU Lady Bulldog basketball
on a lot of trips together. He was a good support person.”
tilts as well as becoming known as the voice of MSU baseball. And he got to know and work with MSU broadcasting legend Jack Cristil. “I grew up listening to Jack. It’s hard to beat that voice
*** Ellis made another career move when former MSU athletic director Larry Templeton hired him in 1991. That, too, was a sales job, although he continued with his busy sched-
calling an MSU football game,” said Ellis, who roomed
ule of MSU baseball, Lady Bulldog basketball, and Starkville
with his mentor on MSU road trips for years before Cristil’s
High football.
retirement in 2011. “He was the consummate professional
“I went to work for Host Communications in 1991 as
and painted the picture as well as anyone I ever listened to. I
general manager of the Bulldog Sports Network,” Ellis said.
september
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“I sold advertising for signage in the stadium, TV shows for
complement each other. I learned from Jack to tell the true
all coaches, any auxiliary TV rights the university owned,
story. There are so many cheerleaders, but I want to tell the
and any on-site promotions.
story of the ballgame, and I think we’ve tried to do that.
“Larry has been a close friend for a lot of years. He was a
“Jack was a star. He came from the era of the one-man
guy who expected a lot of you, but at the same time he was
broadcast and was probably most comfortable with that. So
very loyal to his people and very supportive. He put me in
many of today’s broadcasters come out of a TV background
a position to grow from a sales and a broadcast standpoint,
and are more comfortable with color instead of play-by-
and I’ll always appreciate that.”
play. I want us to paint the picture of what’s happening on
Ellis spent 14 years in that role before Templeton brought
the field. People expect good comments, stats, stories, and
him into the MSU athletic department as Assistant A.D. for
information. Jack did it so well. He could be tremendously
External Affairs, a position he held until 2011. Now a con-
colorful as well as very factual.”
tract employee for Learfield Communications, he does play-
Cristil thought so much of Ellis that when his doctors
by-play for MSU football, basketball, and baseball as well
told him he needed to retire immediately (late in the 2010-
as hosting 30 call-in radio shows and 28 televised coaches’
2011 basketball season), Ellis was the first person he shared
shows a year. He also hosts hour-long radio programs two
the news with, other than several old friends in Tupelo.
mornings a week on Super Talk FM 100.9.
“Out of respect, I felt he should know first,” Cristil said.
It seemed natural that Ellis would succeed his mentor
“We’d talked about the situation before and knew it was
when Jack Cristil signed off for the last time. While the
coming, and it was a very sad thing for me, but I pulled
transition may have been seamless to the fans, Ellis began
him aside and told him I would have to step down right
the 2011 football season with a new broadcast partner
away. He really carried me on the last few broadcasts when
(former Bulldog quarterback Matt Wyatt) and the awareness
I wasn’t feeling well.
that he was following a legend. “I told Matt Wyatt and (MSU sideline analyst) John Cor-
“MSU would have made a tragic mistake if they had not made Jim the new play-by-play man. He has a marvelously
rero that I couldn’t be Jack, but all we can do is try to be
retentive memory and can inject so much into the broad-
the best we can,” Ellis said. “I want us to
cast in great detail, and he does it without ever talking down to or overburdening the listener. He has a remarkable mind.”
Above: Jim Ellis and Jack Cristil.
Sid Salter, who penned the Jack Cristil biography, Voice
grandchildren between them. Though not an ardent major
of the Bulldogs, was impressed with how vital a role Ellis
league baseball fan, he follows the Bulldogs who are play-
played in assisting Cristil near the end of his 58-year run
ing pro ball and has lots of great memories from his years
calling MSU football and basketball games.
behind the mike.
“Jack made clear the level of mutual respect between
“Since I’ve been calling football, it was special to beat
them and how much he supported the decision that Jim
Florida in Gainesville in 2011,” Ellis said. “The total domi-
would be his successor,” Salter said. “He is a consummate
nation of Michigan at the Gator Bowl (January 1, 2011) was
professional and a truly great broadcaster. His loyalty to
a great moment. This year’s College World Series shows the
MSU is unquestioned, but he is – as was Jack – a broadcast-
kind of support MSU has in baseball. John Cohen and his
er of the old school who calls the game not as a homer, but
staff made a lot of good decisions and got about as much as
as a fair journalist. I can think of few people on the staff of
you could get from the players.”
the university who represents MSU better than Jim Ellis and I’m proud to call him my friend.” “Jim and I have remained good friends. He’s one of the nice guys who made it,” Buffington said. “He is a class
The former schoolteacher and Jack Cristil admirer has come a long way since that day in Jim Buffington’s radio station lobby in early 1973. “What I cherish most is the relationships with the play-
person whose word is his bond. I doubt very much that he
ers, coaches, and the MSU family,” Ellis said. “I hope I come
ever glances at printed statistics, because he is a walking,
across as someone who’s appreciative of the chance I’ve
talking computer who can tell you everything you need to
gotten. A ballgame is a ballgame, and it’s important. But at
know about an MSU athlete, (whether) playing baseball,
the end of the day, it’s much more about the people. I get
basketball or football.”
together with ex-players and listen to the stories they tell.
Ellis and his wife, Jammie, have four children and seven
Those are the really important things.” Matt Wyatt, MSU football color analyst and a former MSU quarterback and Jim Ellis.
september
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LIFE AND STYLE
Love For the
of MSU
D
By Ric helle Putnam Pho t og r aph y b y Sull y Clemmer www.sull y clemmer.com
rew Branscome and Chelsea Smith met the summer of 2006 in Muscle Shoals, Alabama when both attended the Handy
Festival, an outdoor festival featuring local/regional musicians and bands. Drew was immediately attracted to Chelsea’s smile. Chelsea was drawn to Drew’s personality. “We had a lot of mutual friends,” said Chelsea, “and after being introduced about nine times that night, we realized maybe everyone was trying to tell us something.” However, both came from families that were diehard fans – of rival college teams! Drew was reared an Ole Miss fan (his dad is an Ole Miss alum) and up until Drew’s last semester of junior college, he had planned on attending The University of Mississippi. “That semester I visited my sister, Emmylou, who was already at State,” said Drew. “I immediately knew it was the place for me.” Ever since Drew’s first MSU football game, he’s been hooked. “We may not win as many games as I would like, but that makes the ones we do win a lot sweeter.”
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Chelsea grew up in Alabama and in Ala-
they always win.
bama, she explained, you’re either an Alabama fan
The first few years of a long-distance relationship are dif-
or Auburn fan. In her house there really wasn't a choice. “I'll
ficult for anyone. Occasionally, Drew and Chelsea had to go
never forget when I first told my dad about meeting a guy
a month or more without seeing each other. Chelsea rear-
that went to Mississippi State,” said Chelsea. “His response
ranged her work and school schedule to make day drives to
was, ‘As long as he isn't an Auburn or Tennessee fan, I can
Starkville and to Memphis to see Drew.
make it work.’ ”
“We had to trust one another and be devoted to making a
Drew, who graduated MSU in spring 2007 with a Bach-
long distance relationship work, but being three hours away
elor of Arts in Communication, admits to giving Chelsea a
definitely made us appreciate the time we got together even
hard time about how easy it is to be an Alabama fan because
more.”
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Drew’s "aha" moment with Chelsea happened when he
adding that she packed her
took her to meet his family and
bags and took a huge leap of
friends. “She fit right in, which
faith to move five hours away
was really, really important to
from home and family, to a
me,” he said. Plus, after every-
city of strangers, to be closer
one met her Drew didn't really
to Drew and so they could see
have a choice because everyone
each other every day. “I was
loved her. “We fit in naturally
scared and nervous, but most
with each other's families,” said
of all excited for this next step.
Drew. “I always joke that my
After a few months of living
family likes her more than they
together in the same town, we
like me now.”
knew we would be together
After Drew and Chelsea discussed their futures and
forever.” Their families and friends
how they saw their relationship
have been incredibly supportive
progressing, Chelsea applied
since day one. When Chelsea
to nursing school in Jackson,
met Drew’s friends for the first
Miss. A few months later, she
time, they were welcoming and
was accepted.
loving. “I felt like I had known
“We felt that this was truly
58
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them for years,” she said.
Chelsea’s parents have even adopted MSU as their second school and, as long as MSU isn't playing Alabama, they’re cheering on the Dawgs. In November 2011, after Chelsea and Drew had moved into a new apartment, they invited both their families to Jackson for Chelsea’s first attempt at cooking Thanksgiving dinner. Drew's parents drove in from Olive Branch, Miss and Chelsea’s came from Muscle Shoals, Ala. “Little did I know what Drew had planned,” said Chelsea. “I
dors and locations as we could in one
had told Drew in the past I didn't want
day,” said Chelsea. “It was tough at
a big, public proposal. He knew how
times planning from two hours away
important my family is to me.” Once
and coordinating with everyone, but
the food was almost ready, Drew pulled
we made it work. Drew had to be a lot
Chelsea from the kitchen, brought her
more involved than most guys probably
out and started what she thought was
want to be.”
a speech about how important family
When Chelsea first visited MSU,
is and how glad they were that every-
Drew had showed her around the cam-
body could make it. “Next thing I knew
pus – The Union, The Hump, Fraternity
Drew was talking just to me. Of course
and Sorority Rows, The Drill Field, and
everyone else was in on this, which
the Chapel of Memories – to which she
shocked me, because no one in our
immediately fell in love.
family is good at keeping secrets.”
“Once we decided on Starkville, the
Drew proposed.
Chapel was an easy choice. We knew
Chelsea said, “Yes!”
we didn't want a big wedding, but we
And the couple enjoyed Thanksgiving
wanted a place that made a statement.”
dinner surrounded by their families.
Chelsea added that the only “must
“It was perfect,” said Chelsea.
have” was a center aisle, which the
Their hometowns being approxi-
Chapel had.
mately five hours apart, Chelsea and
Attending MSU, said Drew, was the
Drew knew they wanted to get married
second best decision he ever made.
somewhere in between, a place close
Marrying Chelsea was his first. Because
enough that people from both sides
their story began while Drew was a
could attend. Plus, they wanted to get
senior at MSU, they felt it only right to
married in a place that had meaning for
take the next steps of their relationship
both of them. They chose Starkville.
there, in the MSU Chapel, a place to
“We drove up from Jackson one morning to meet with as many ven-
return and feel the exact way that they did on their wedding day. september
2013 |
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Their photographer, Sully Clemmer from Jackson, Miss (www.sullyclemmer.com) was one of the couple’s most important decisions, second only to the preacher of the cerThey chose not to have a wedding planner, but Starkville native Mandi Alexander, one of Drew's longtime friends
ding, but to document it, so after their first meeting with
and die-hard Dawg, gave Chelsea the inside scoop on local
Sully, “We knew he was it,” said Chelsea. Aside from taking
vendors and venues.
incredible pictures, Sully made things easy and enjoyable.
“I would randomly get calls and texts from her with sug-
“Even almost a year later, I still look at our pictures and can't
gestions on everything,” said Chelsea. “I don't know how we
believe how beautiful they are. He truly captured everything
would have pulled it off without her.”
special from our Wedding Day!”
For the flowers, Chelsea wanted simple and Southern, so
Chelsea’s dress was a simple strapless gown with a
Misty Nall of Bloom Flowers and Boutique in Starkville, was
sweetheart neck, full bottom skirt, and pockets, which was
available for questions, advice, and support. The bouquets
probably Chelsea’s favorite thing. For a little added “special
were white and green Hydrangeas and white Roses secured
touch,” Chelsea had their wedding date stitched in blue on
together with twine around the stems. Chelsea’s bouquet
the inside of her dress.
had a pair of her late grandmother's pearl earrings attached
“One day we will be able to take our future children and
to the twine, representing something old. The boutonnieres
grand-children and show them where it all began for us,”
were a single white rose, also with twine.
said Chelsea. “I think one of the things that stuck out to us
“I chose not to have an arrangement at the Chapel because I didn't want to take away from its character,” said Chelsea. The ceremony was held at one o’clock p.m. so that wedding guests could drive to and from Starkville on the same day. A special moment happened during the prayer about
was how many couples had gotten married at the Chapel before us, and how many will after. Thinking about how many couples said "I Do" at the same altar adds a little something extra.” Instead of the traditional sign-in guest book, they wanted
coming together as husband and wife. Drew and Chelsea
“out of the ordinary.” After coming across work by Eleanor
were holding hands and facing each other when, as they
Mathis of Curiously Wrought (www.cwrought.etsy.com).,
bowed their heads, their foreheads touched during the
they decided to use one of her pieces as the book, which,
prayer.
instead of sitting in a box for 50 years, could be displayed as
“It was really special to me because it seemed to symbolize everything the prayer was about,” said Chelsea. “Support, comfort, and becoming one.” 60
emony. They didn’t want a photographer to control the wed-
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a memory in their home. “We contacted Eleanor and told her our idea. What she gave us was truly incredible and unique,” said Chelsea.
The Hunter Henry Center, with its stunning, modern
“I'll never forget after the reception we walked around
façade, won hands-down for the reception location. Jenna
campus with Sully taking pictures at random locations.
Shook and Janna Courtney of the Center were two big rea-
Every car passing by honked or rolled down the windows
sons everything stayed on track during the planning process
to yell congratulations!” As these strangers wished them the
and why Chelsea never felt overwhelmed. MSU Catering ca-
best of luck, Chelsea realized why Drew had fallen in love
tered the "dessert themed" reception, which included Dawg
with MSU eight years before and why she’s been Maroon
Bone Cookies, caramel truffles, strawberry shortcake and
and White ever since!
banana pudding shooters, brownies, chocolate chip cookies,
There may be one weekend of the season, when State
and most importantly MSU milk. The four-tier wedding cake
plays Bama that Chelsea likes to play both sides of the
had white icing on all four layers, with alternating layers of
fence…depending on who wins.
strawberry and white cake. Everything was on campus, making it convenient for the
Communication and appreciation will be their keys to a successful marriage, as well as keeping everything in per-
wedding party and the guests. The only thing the newly-
spective by remembering what matters most at the end of
weds might have done differently was to jump the fence to
the day. Other couples, who are also die-hard fans of oppos-
the football field to have pictures made there. They had even
ing teams, may want to heed the Branscomes’ good advice:
called Campus Police, telling them the situation, but the police simply wouldn’t have it! Growing up an Alabama fan, Chelsea’s heart will always
“Make sure at least one of you is an MSU alum! That way, it’s pretty easy for the other one to convert!”
hold a special place for the Crimson Tide, but MSU is where her life changed. Therefore, she proudly admits to being an official MSU Bulldog fan. Her favorite thing about MSU is that everybody is one, big family.
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Meet the Locals...
Lisa Pritchard By Becca Hor t on Pho t og r aph y b y Divian Conner and Submitt ed The stands at the football game are packed as one side yells MAROON and the other side yells WHITE. The cowbells ring proudly from every direction, and even harder when those select few jog on the field decked out in school spirit from head to toe. And fans ask themselves, why are bulldogs so cute? when Bully runs on the field with his charming caretaker beside him. Lisa Pritchard is no stranger to the rush that comes with running on the field during football season. In fact, it’s her favorite time of year – to the point where she can tell you how many days (and probably minutes) are left until the opening game. Her school spirit is obvious, and her job has come with the exciting characteristics that make her a bit of an adrenaline junkie. Her official title is Mississippi State University’s Mascot Coordinator, which is a delightfully fancy way of saying she gives Bully the home, love and extra push he needs to be on that field every football game. Pritchard, 49, was born in Starkville but grew up and attended high school in Maben, Miss. at Cumberland High, which is now known as East Webster. She received an Associate Degree at Wood Junior College in Mathiston, Miss., and following graduation began working at a veterinary clinic in Eupora. She currently lives in Mathiston and makes the daily commute to Starkville.
When she interviewed for the internal medicine technician position at Mississippi State’s veterinary school, Pritchard found that part of her responsibility was to be a kind of handler for the bulldog mascot, or “Bully,” making sure they were able to get to and from home football games. At the time, the mascot was not officially owned by the university, but was actually a pet borrowed from different members of the alumni. This was done from the time she began working there in 1993 until 1999, when Lisa presented a caretaker idea to her boss and MSU’s athletic department. She told them she felt it would be better for the dog and the university if the dog was officially owned, groomed as a mascot and cared for in an employee’s home environment. They then put her in charge. Pritchard knew she wanted a particular bloodline of English Bulldogs to make its appearance as the new mascot, and after about eighteen months of searching for this seemingly lost bloodline, she’d finally caught a break. A woman in Waynesboro, Miss. contacted her and offered to bring by two puppies for her to look at; one, a beautiful fawning-white puppy, marched in the house like he owned the place. She knew, “almost right then,” that he was the one. pre-game in the junction, she makes sure Champ goes wher-
The athletic department purchased this new mascot, the nineteenth Bully, in April 2001 where he promptly became Pritchard’s responsibility. His name was Tonka, and his statue
ever he is needed. After getting a call to make an appearance, Pritchard is
currently resides in the junction. Tonka had his retirement
only too happy to take a road trip with Champ and arrive
ceremony at a home game in 2009, when the current Bully
with a good attitude and a charming smile on her face. Some
– Tonka’s son, Champ – proudly filled his paws.
of their public efforts include meet and greets at area nurs-
The two bulldogs have not only been part of her responsi-
ing homes, visiting some local schools, and even answering
bility, but an even greater part of her family. “Champ is a lot
a child’s Flat Stanley letter. It is safe to say Starkville’s favorite
of me, and I am a lot of him,” she gushes. She also mentions
bulldog is privy to many photo ops. Pritchard jokes that her
that even after Tonka’s passing, she thinks about him every
ankles are very photogenic. Other than the great responsibility of being Bully’s
day. cots were simply present for the football games. Now, with
medicine service and the oncology service at MSU’s Col-
Pritchard’s help, the mascot does quite a bit of PR. Not only
lege of Veterinary Medicine. She sees several small animals
does she bring him to participate in two hours of pictures
daily, primarily dogs and cats, and is very grateful to have an
ce oi
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Visit Town and Gown Mag on Facebook to see a video of Bully (Champ) swimming with Lisa.
or’s Ch d it
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with
or’s Ch d it
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Online now at townandgownmagazine.com
Behind The Scenes
E
caretaker, Pritchard is the Head Technician in the internal
is everywhere you go!
Before, when they were owned by MSU alums, the mas-
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understanding department that allows her to perform both
Her children, 20-year-old Austin and 15-year-old Laura
her mascot and veterinary duties. She also teaches veterinary
Grace, as well as her father Tony, are major inspirations in all
students and veterinary technology students, interns and
that she does. Her faith and relationship with God are also
residents.
very important to her. She doesn’t waste another minute
One of the most difficult jobs Pritchard has experienced
to bring up her beautiful English Bulldog, Champ, and his
has been taking care of the chemotherapy patients at the vet-
impact on her life. And when questioned where her loyalties
erinary school. She gives these animals their chemotherapy
lie, the answer is obvious – she vows to represent Mississip-
medications, and takes satisfaction in knowing it will offer
pi State University to the best of her ability, especially where
the animals and their owners a bit of comfort.
the mascot is concerned.
“If I can give that owner three more months or six more
Working as a veterinary technician and especially as a
months or eight more months with that animal to get that
caretaker, her job has taught her that everyone has a little bit
owner prepared for what is going to happen, then I’ve done
of a child inside. She sees this in older people that have trou-
my job. If I see that dog going out the door with his owner
ble doing everyday things, whether because of arthritis or
and his tail wagging because he’s tickled to death, and that
other ailments, particularly. “You’d be surprised at the older
owner is smiling from ear to ear because that’s what they
people, trying their very best to get down on their hands
want,” she said, “then I’ve done my job.”
and knees and have their picture made with that dog,” she
Although the trauma of losing a patient to cancer is
said. She mentions that she would not trade her experiences
“beyond sad,” Pritchard inspires others with her words on
for anything, and her relationships with the MSU mascots
the subject. Recently a veterinary student asked her how she
have brought opportunities for her that may not have come
deals with the loss, and after hearing this answer, told Prit-
about otherwise.
chard she was even prouder to be a veterinary student. Pritchard has many passions other than helping animals.
Not only has she set foot on every SEC football stadium in existence, she’s had the chance to meet many famous people that just can’t resist getting their pictures made with an adorable bulldog. These people include but are not limited to George W. Bush, an “embarrassing” meeting with Morgan Freeman, Lawrence Fishburne, Sugarland and Dale Earnhardt, Jr. Despite these amazing accomplishments, Pritchard remains steadfast to achieve her ultimate goal – to have MSU’s mascot on the cover of Sports Illustrated. She excitedly hopes to make this happen before she retires, which as she says is not anytime soon. Lisa Pritchard has never met a stranger. Her kind hearted spirit, loving personality and charming laugh are just some of the amazing things that make up the beautiful person that takes care of our mascot and animals. Though
Left to Right: Lisa meeting Dale Earnhardt, Jr. at the 2013 Gator Bowl. Police escort to the 2013 Gator Bowl.
she has been through some tough times, her positive attitude and jobs she loves make her a lovely, strong woman and an inspiration to us all. “The good Lord only gives you one life. Live for Him and enjoy it. That’s me.”
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Fashion + Football S ty led b y N at alie Phillips Pho t og r aph y b y Laur a Daniels Clo t hes Pr o vided b y Deep Sout h P out R eed’s As summer comes to a close, families and students look forward to the upcoming football season. We all know that attending the game is more than just showing up, it’s using maroon and white hues on the newest and trendiest clothing pieces. We have cool and trendy outfit ideas all ready for you this football season. We’re bringing back the ‘90s with denim, black and white, and a whole lot of edginess!
Boyfriend fit denim jeans, sheer maroon shirt, and black and white striped blazer are all the perfect mix of casual and dressy for an MSU football game. Flying Monkey boyfriend denim pants- $54.95 Very J button down hi lowmaroon- $36.96 Countess striped point blazer$39.95 Bamboo chestnut wedges- $38.95 Judson gold necklace-$32.95 66
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These blue and white striped linen pants will be a hit on game-day along with a white Lacoste button-down, brown linen jacket, preppy maroon and silver bow tie and Bostonian leather shoes. Bravini linen pants- $70.00 Lacoste white button down- $88.00 Enzo linen sport coat True Forum bow tie- $36.00 Bostonian tan leather shoe- $99.00
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Baroque print maroon shorts from Deep South Pout are adorable for a mid-fall day. “I Miss Starkville� graphic tee, denim vest, tan loafers, and maroon choker necklace are all playful with a hint of edge. Billy by Flying Tomato shorts- $36.95 Vibrant denim vest- $42.95 I Miss Starkville t-shirt- $34.95 Refresh taupe shoe- $42.95 Correction Stylist Abby Hathorn: August 2013 page 60 august
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Bring back a vintage look from years past with a Mississippi State University letterman jacket. Pair with a simple jean and comfortable shoes with it. Nothing says school spirit like a letterman’s jacket.
+ This maroon maxi dress is comfortable yet slightly dressy with a leopard print wedge and mint green statement necklace. Maroon maxi dress- $39.95 Soda leopard print wedges- $30.95 Mint green bubble necklace- $26.95 Black over size clutch- $36.95
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Be comfortable in a pair of cargo shorts and MSU logo golf shirt from Reeds. This look is always a trend for the guys. Less is more when it comes to men. Mountain khakis- $79.95 Cutter & Buck MSU logo shirt- $75.00 Cole Haan Papaya shoe$148.00
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Turn heads in a blue-striped dress shirt, simple khaki pants and maroon and navy bow tie.
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Duck Head pants- $60.00 True Forum bow tie- $36.00 Clarks dress shoe- $90.00 Southern Marsh dress shirt- $75.00
Flare pants and crop tops are back and cooler than ever! Rock these pants with a maroon crop top with lace bell sleeves and gold tribal necklace.
Tencel black flare pants- $9.99 Double Zero off the shoulder hi low shirt- $34.95 Gold tribal necklace- $38.95
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Pho t og r aph y b y Sar a Car pent er and Lindse y Nor man
1. 1. Designers Gallery:
Bulldog Bookends, $44.95, 662324-3224.
2. The University Florist: Iron Dawg Metal, $85, theuniversityflorist.com.
3. The University Florist: Copperworx dog bone, $35-65, theuniversityflorist.com. 4. Giggleswick: Diana Warren Hailstate bracelet, $65, gigglewick.com.
2.
5. Gigglewick: Fraternity Collection t-shirt, $39, giggleswick.com. 6. Thyme: Kitchen Papers placemats, $26.99, 662-323-5679. 7. Thyme: Kitchen Papers table runners, $28.79-33.19, 662-323-5679. 8. Thyme: MSU vintage pennants, $65, 662-323-5979. 9. Reed’s: Enmon MSU over night bag, $85, reedsms.com.
3.
5.
4.
6.
8.
7. 9.
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A CUP OF LINSAY JO Pho t og r aph y Submitt ed
Game Day Runway It’s not easy to look chic while
Lindsay is an online lifestyle blogger. Her blog, www.acupoflindsayjo.com, has a primary focus on fashion. Lindsay is a member of the Independent Fashion Bloggers (IFB) and attends various conferences and workshops with other fashion bloggers regularly.
also showing off your school pride. Thanks to the following brands and their college footballinspired collections, looking good has never been so easy on gam day!
2.
1.
3.
1. 4. 6. 3. 4. 5.
1. Yours Truly – If you are looking for an easy shift dress,
7. Emma Graham – Emma Graham features a campus collec-
Yours Truly produces its own line of gameday dresses in your
tion for women that includes school-themed dresses, skirts,
favorite school colors.
and tops.
2. Pennington and Bailes – Pennington and Bailes is famous
8. Gameday Blazers – Gameday Blazers designs and produces
for their great embroidery. Men can opt for university logo
just that – men’s blazers in your favorite team’s colors.
embroidered pants while women can choose their similarly embroidered skirts.
9. Collared Greens – For the preppy man on game day, Collared Greens offers university colored bow ties and ties,
3. State Traditions – If you’re looking for a hat to shade you on fall Saturdays, try one from State Traditions. They feature
10. Mesh & Mia – Meesh & Mia offer both NFL and College
the silhouette of your state in coordination university colors.
game day apparel. Their designs come in school colors and
(Reed’s).
even have the option of adding your school logo to apparel.
4. Society43 – Society43 makes retro sunglasses in your favorite school colors with your school’s logo. 5. Vineyard vines – Known for their small patterned screened designs, Vineyard Vines produces a collegiate collection that includes ties and totes. 6. Judith March – Based out of Seaside, Florida, Judith March creates dresses, tops, and shorts with a university theme for several SEC schools. (Deep South Pout)
9. 7. 10. 8.
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LITERATURE
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Book R e vie w b y Hellen P olk
A
s the calendar page moves to September, fans
to care for all of their pets. Check
young and old get the fever for football! It may not
this book out before you add a
feel like fall in the Starkville, but most everyone is
bulldog to your family.
ready for all the thrills that another football season brings.
Now for books about the
Whether little league, high school, college or pro, football
pigskin, there are a number
and all the activities associated with the pigskin come to the
of great books for middle el-
forefront this time each year.
ementary readers that will en-
Let’s start with our favorite mascot, Bully. Most children adore this big loveable mascot
they are not playing the game. The Matt Christopher
that makes his appearance at all
Sports Series includes fiction chapter books and biographies
the sporting events. Legends
on many sports heroes. Try Tough to Tackle or Catch That
Storybooks published in 2010 a simple but engaging story
Pass for all the action and thrills of a football player. On the Field With…
simply titled, Bully, that
Peyton and Eli
introduces readers to our
Manning is a
mascot, from his birth in
biography of
Starkville, his school days,
two respectable
to his decision to attend
NFL heroes,
Mississippi State for college.
even if they
Along the way, the reader gets to experience many valuable lessons that Bully learns about school life. Bully decides to try out for several sports teams because he loves MSU so
didn’t play at MSU! And while
much. But he doesn’t make the teams. However, the football
we’re on
coach loves Bully’s attitude and asks him to lead the team
the subject of
onto Scott Field before the first football game! And as they
football, we can’t forget the very important cheerleaders!
say, “The rest is history.” Everyone loves Bully and his pride
While the little boys are donning their favorite players’
in MSU. The book has appealing crayon illustrations that
jerseys, most little girls can’t wait to put on that cheer outfit
include some of MSU’s greatest athletic moments as well as
and show off their latest moves. Sports Illustrated Kids has
Bully’s chance to spend time in the booth with Jack Cristil!
a series of books about Victory School and their superstars.
This would make a fantastic gift for any young fan who loves
The book, Cheerleading Really is a Sport, dispels some of the
all things maroon and white.
misconceptions about cheerleaders. It
While we’re on the subject of Bully, some children
emphasizes that these athletes must
may want to have a real bulldog as a pet. The book, Bull-
train just as hard and have as much
dogs, by Tammy Gagne, gives children a great overview
talent as those who put on the
of the English bulldog breed. Included in the book is in-
shoulder pads and helmets.
formation on the bulldog’s history, its distinctive wrinkly
74
tice young football fans when
Now that we’ve got some good
look, special needs, care and training. A pet is an excellent
books to read, let’s get out there
way for children to develop responsibility and compassion
and support all of our teams this
for animals. But children must be taught the proper ways
football season. Let the fun begin!
| townandgownmagazine.com
Forks and Corks 2013 Starkville’s best chefs competed for the Forks and Corks 2013 title. A taste for the Arts, a culinary challenge sponsored by the Starkville Arts Council, was held at Magnolia Manor on Saturday, July 27, 2013. Photography by Laura Daniels
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1. Mark Donald and Mary Switzer 2. Bob and Susan Fitzgerald 3. Nora Strickland and Ty Thames (Ty is the owner of Restaurant Tyler) 4. Gloria Bagwell-Rowland and Hal Rowland (owners of Magnolia Manor) 5. Bobby and Stephanie Tomlinson 6. Michelle Jones and Susan Ford september
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Movin’ You to MSU Mississippi State University and the Department of Housing and Residence Life welcomed new students to campus on Saturday, August 10, 2013 during their day called Movin’ You to MSU (MVNU2MSU). Photography by Ashley Covin
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1.Josette, Gabby, Sadie and Sophie Goyins 2. Margie and Erin Upchurch 3. Ragan McNorney, Bartley Owens and Kelty Bist 4. Sintren Davis, Demetria Wilson, TeresaWilson, D’Avian Wilson and Montrel Davis 5. Brittany Eads and Amanda Washington 6. Cameron, JoAnna and Tiffany Sanford
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Starkville Send Off Party The Oktibbeha County Alumni Chapter hosted its annual Send-Off Party for Oktibbeha County Students on Thursday, July 25th at the Club Level of Davis Wade Stadium. Photography by Loren Gambrell
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1.Savana Heidelberg and Emerson Holliman 2. Trish Cunetto, Charles Weatherly and Elizabeth Germany 3. Kathryn and Liz Stringer 4. Taylor Clay, Quanisha Arnol and Latashu Duck 5. Joseph Dagher, Jacqueline Posley and Taylor Christian 6. Zach Harrington, Elizabeth Ryder, Jason Ryder and Christen Mingione
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Mississippi State Panhellenic Bid Day MSU Panhellenic held their Bid Day, last day of membership recruitment which includes acceptance parties, for all new members at the amphitheater on MSU campus Saturday, August 18, 2013. Photography by Sara Carpenter
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1. Ashley Adams and Rachel Miller 2. Christy McCool and Erin Curran 3. Jennifer Jones, Karley Kleisch, Caroline Campbell, Grace Ga-as, Finley White and Emily Windham 4. Julie Dence and Chandler Godfrey 5.Katya Demetriades, Caroline Brown and Nicole Hughes 6. Morgan Pace, Kylie Rigdonn, Megan White and Lauren Chambers
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Junior Auxiliary Crown Club The Starkville JA Crown Club held their annual Mother Daughter Social to welcome new members to the Crown Club. The club strives to develop community leaders for tomorrow by training young women to become effective volunteers. Photography by Ashley Covin
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1.Ashton and Penny Benoist 2. Beth and Sally Marie Passons 3. Janeice and Robin Pigg 4. Janet and Anna McKell 5. Liz and Kathryn Stringer 6. Maril Jackson and Kristen Stringer
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Denim and Diamonds The Friends of the Museum hosted its benefit for the Oktibbeha County Heritage Museum, Denim and Diamonds, on Friday, August 9, 2013 at the Shrine Club. Photography by Ashley Covin
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1.Carole Gospodneitch and Danny Crump 2. Keith and Ruth Remy 3. Dolly Moore, Geneva Nelson, Lynn McAdams and Mildred Stickley 4. Linda Skimer and Lorraine Blount 5. Ruth De la Cruz and Bill and Patsy Stuart 6. Ruth and Keith Remy 7. Wanda Thorne, Fairfax Montgomery, Ava Moore and Patsy Stuart
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CALENDAR August-November
Maroon Edition Habitat for Humanity Volunteer shifts for the Maroon Edition Habitat for Humanity home are now open for Friday and Saturday until November 2, 2013. The morning shift is 8 a.m.-noon and the afternoon shift is 1-5 p.m. To view all available sign-up shifts available visit mvc.msstate.edu.
August 30
18th Annual Howlin’Wolf Memorial Blues Festival Great crowds and great blues musicians will be attending this annual festival located at Mary Holmes College. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Doors open at 6 p.m. and first act is at 6:30 p.m. For more information visit wpms.net.
August 31
35th Annual Prairie Arts Festival A festival dedicated to the artists, this festival has over 30,000 plus in attendance each year, 4 stages with live music, local food, a 5K run, children’s art show, antique car show and more. Contact westpointms.org for more information.
September 3
Tennessee Williams Tribute This year Columbus will tribute a famed playwright to Tennessee Williams along with tour of homes will be held through September 8, 2013. Call 662328-0222 or visit columbus-ms. org for more information.
September 4 Get Swept Up!
Fix up. Clean up. Spruce Up. Join Greater Starkville Development Partnership in the communitywide trash pick up in Starkville. Volunteer by calling 662-3233322.
September 5
The Reading Railroad The Junior Auxiliary of Starkville will hold their annual Provisional Project, The Reading Railroad, from 5:30-7 p.m. at Suddeth Elementary in Starkville.
September 6
Downtown Block Party The New South Weekends are back again for all those locals and visitors for Mississippi State Football weekends with the annual Downtown Block Party in the Russell Street shopping center. Join the fun activities planned for the whole family from 5-7 p.m. For more information visit Greater Starkville Development Partnership at starkville.org.
September 7 MSU Game
The first home game of the MSU Football season will be against Alcorn State. Ticket information and game time can be found at hailstate.com.
September 8
Bulldog Brunch & Browse Happening each home game of the MSU Football season Starkville will host a Bulldog Brunch & Browse in Downtown Starkville from noon-3 p.m. Restaurants and businesses participating will be open for business for family and friends to relax and shop after a big game day. For more information visit starkville.org.
September 12 SYP
Starkville Young Professionals will hold their monthly social at The Veranda in Starkville from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Join businessmen and women for a night of networking with young Starkville locals.
MSU Riley Center Ronnie Dunn, one of country music’s most recognizable voices and most acclaimed country music entertainers, will be performing at the MSU Riley Center located in Meridian, Miss. Pre-Show starts at 6 p.m. and ticket information can be found at msurileycenter.com.
September 19
GSDP Business After Hours GSDP will have its monthly Business After Hours at the Golden Triangle Regional Airport. Join a night of networking with locals from 5:30-8 p.m. For more information visit starkville.org.
MSU Riley Center Blues Traveler, a band retaining its popular sound on their latest album while bringing in a number of collaborating singers and songwriters, will be performing at the MSU Riley Center in Meridian, Miss. Pre-Show starts at 6 p.m. and ticket information can be found at msurileycenter.com.
MSU Lyceum Series Event Gretchen Parlato, an awardwinning jazz and music vocalist, will perform at the Lee Hall Bettersworth Auditorium starting at 7:30 p.m. Tickets go on sale August 12, 2013 at 730 p.m. For more information visit lyceum. msstate.edu.
Back to School Blues In Louisville brings everyone together on Main Street to celebrate with blues group, The Old Memphis Kings. Live music from 6-9 p.m., shops and restaurants OPEN. A great way to spend a fall evening.
at each participating merchant while shopping with a discount. For more information visit starkville.org.
Rice Tasting Luncheon The Mississippi Delta Rice Industry will celebrate National Rice Month at this event which includes over 300 rice dishes. The celebration will start at 11 a.m.-1 p.m. at Delta State University’s Walter Sillers Coliseum in Cleveland, Miss. For more information call 662-843-8371.
September 21
MSU Football Game MSU will host Troy University for the second home game of the season. Ticket information and game time can be found at hailstate.com.
September 22
Bulldog Brunch & Browse Happening each home game of the MSU Football season Starkville will host a Bulldog Brunch & Browse in Downtown Starkville from noon-3 p.m. Restaurants and businesses participating will be open for business for family and friends to relax and shop after a big game day. For more information visit starkville.org.
September 28
“Possum Town Prelude” The Starkville-MSU Symphony Association will host the premiere performance of “Possum Town Prelude” by the symphony’s principal bassist, Rick Montalto, in Columbus, Miss. at the Rent Auditorium at 7:30 p.m. For more information visit
starkvillesymphony.org.
September 20
unWINE Downtown Ladies come out and enjoy a night of downtown shopping and wine tasting from 5:30-9:30 p.m. Enjoy a glass of wine september
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ADVERTISERS
Abner ’s 518 S. Montgomer y St. Starkville, MS 39579 P. 662-338-0098 abnerschicken.com B eard ’s Antiquities on 5th 124 5th St. Columbus, MS 39701 P. 662-386-6157 B ulldog Club B r yan Athletic Admin. B uilding P.O. B ox BT, MS State, MS 39762 P. 662-325-3074
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Mar tin OMS & Maxillofacial S urger y 976 HWY 12 E Starkville, MS 39759 P. 662-323-3801 mar tinoms.com Merle Norman Luna B ella 202 Washington St. Starkville, MS 39759 P. 662-323-5255 M itchell D istributing 100 48th Ave. Meridian, MS 39307 P. 601-482-6161 mitchellcompanies.com
Peak Nutrition 100 Russell St., Ste. #3 Starkville, MS 39759 P. 662-268-8064 thepeaknutrition.com
S ullivan’s O ffice S upply 204 E . Main Street Starkville, MS 39759 P. 662-323-5222 sullivansoffice.com
Penny B owen D esigns and B ella Interiors 515 College St. Columbus, MS 39701 P. 662-241-5055 bellapbd.com
T.E . Lott P.O. B ox 80282 Starkville, MS 39759 P. 662-323-1234
Phillips Financial 104 W Lampkin St. Starkville, MS 39759 P. (662) 324-2889
D enim and Lace 220 E . Main St. Starkville, MS 39759 P. 662-320-8081
MSU College of B uisiness P.O. B ox 5288 Ms State, MS 39762 P. 662-325-0159
Purple Elephant 401B E . Lampkin Street Starkville, MS 39759 P. 662-324-4008
D eep S outh Pout 329 Universit y D r. Starkville, MS 39759 P. 662-324-6055 deepsouthpout.com
MSU D ept. of Communic ation P.O. B ox PF Ms State, MS 39762 P. 662-325-8033 comm.msstate.edu
D esigner ’s G aller y 201 Highway 12 E . Starkville, MS 39759 P. (662) 324-3224
MSU Foundation 100 Hunter Henr y B lvd. MS State, MS 39762 P. 662-325-7000 msufoundation.com
Reed ’s 302 Universit y D r. Starkville, MS 39759 P. 662-323-2684 2013 U.S. 45 Columbus, MS 39705 P. 662-327-2684 reedsms.com
G iggleswick 200 HWY 12 E . Starkville, MS 39759 P. 662-323-4438 G reater Starkville D evelopment Par tnership 200 E . Main Street Starkville, MS 39759 P. 662-323-3322 starkv ille.org
MSU Heath Center P. O. B ox 6338 Ms State, MS 39762 P. 662-325-5895 health.msstate.edu MSU Relations MS State, MS 39762 662-325-5753 msstate.edu
Hometown Healthc are 101 D oc tors Park Starkville, MS 39759 P. 662-324-8338
Newk ’s Express Cafe 132 HWY 12 Starkville, MS 39759 P. 662-323-6395
L.A. G reen 500 Russell St. Starkville, MS 39759 P. 662-324-6280 lagreenjewelr y.com
OCH Regional Medic al Center 400 Hospital Rd. Starkville, MS 39759 P. (662) 323-9355 och.org
S alon 28 500 Russell St., S uite 28 Starkville, MS 39759 P. 662-324-6900 S imply Home 306 Lampkin Street Starkville, MS 39759 P. 662-323-4323 S omething S outhern 1223 Jackson St. Starkville, MS 39759 P. 662-236-3977 S prout LLC 419 E . Lampkin St. Starkville, MS 39759 P. 662-338-1144 Starkville Proper ties 100 Russell St., Ste. 19 Starkville, MS 39759 P.662-324-0037 starkvilleproper tiesms.com
The Cake B ox 1016 B. Louisville St. Starkville, MS 39759 P. 662-648-7000 The G rowth Alliance of West Point 510 E B road St. West Point, MS 3973 P. 662-494-5121 westpointms.org The Jewel Shoppe 215 W. Main Street Louisville, MS 39339 P. 662-773-3320 thejewelshoppe.com The St yle Lof t 221 E . Main St. Starkville, MS 39759 P. 662-324-5004 The Universit y Florist M ini Mall on Lee B lvd. Starkville, MS 39759 P. 662-325-3585 theuniversit yflorist.com Thyme 402 Lampkin St. Starkville, MS 39759 P. 662-323-5979 Walker Estate S ales 805 Elm D r. Macon, MS 39341 P. 662-361-2496 Wesley Furguson 405 Ac ademy Rd. Starkville, MS 39759 P. 662-323-2876 wesleyferguson.com
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