September Game Day Issue

own own T &G September 2017

Our Tailgating Favorites

The Evolution of Scott Field and MSU Football

GAME DAY Nanny

In this Issue

Home, Garden and Lifestyle around Mississippi 10

Calendar of Events

Wishlist

12 16

Game Day Nanny

20 Guide to Tailgate Catering

GunCo

30 34

Southern Tradition Tailgating

39

Bulldog Bash 2017

44

DIY Tailgate Plates

52 Taste & Toast

48 Tailgating Tips to Keep you in the Game: Katie Langley ,Local Phyiscual Therapist offers wellness tips for this season!

4 | TOWNANDGOWNMAGAZINE.COM

22 The Evolution of Scott Field and MSU Football

50 Made in Mississippi: Grits & Greens Jewelry

56

Game Day Fashion

Events

64

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

Looking for the perfect recipes for your football party? Check out this month’s taste & toast to learn how to make these delicious Cheeseburger bites and more! pg 52

Follow us on Instagram for sneakpeaks, giveaways, recipes & so much more! @townandgown

on the cover..

On the

Check out our Tailgating wish list for more of our favorite hailstate items like this handpainted cowbell! pg. 12

Cover

@townandgownmagazine

@townandgown

@townandgownmag1

@townandgownmag September 2017 | 5

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6 | TOWNANDGOWNMAGAZINE.COM

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

{ s taf f } Don Norman | publisher - sdnpub@starkvilledailynews.com Courtney Cox| editor - editor@townandgownmagazine.com { acco un t exe c u ti ve s } Hanna Mathis -hanna@townandgownmagazine.com

cont ributors {writ ers} Joe Lee Richelle Putanam Katie Langley Clint Kimberling Karen Gerard Sasha Steinberg {photographers} Margaret Mcmullen Brittney Dowell Letty Weeks Anna Barker Divian Connor {fashion spread} Divian Conner - photographer Cromatix Salon - hair Merle Norman Luna Bella- Make-up {page design} Courtney Cox {adver t ising design} Chris Mcmillen Reproductions in whole or in part,without written permission,is strictly prohibited. No responsibility can be assumed for unsolicited manuscripts, articles or photographs. We reserve the right to edit submissions before publication. Town & Gown is a free magazine published monthly and distributed in and around Starkville and the Golden Triangle area. Subscriptions are available for mail customers. For subscriptions or inquiries,write Town & Gown Magazine, P.O. Box 1068, Starkville, MS, 39760, or call 662.323.1642.

EARN YOUR DEGREE

ONLINE distance.msstate.edu/town

September 2017 | 7

Letter from the Editor’s Intern As a person that has been crazy about written word since I was a kid, I am thrilled to introduce myself as the new intern at Town & Gown magazine. I hope to learn all of the ins and outs of this local publication and even more about this town that I’ve called home since 2013. Even though Starkville can be described as “small” in comparison to bigger cities, I still find myself noticing new things at every turn. This September marks my 5th football season as a Starkville resident and I am beginning to feel the all familiar buzz of excitement in the air. This is the time to really soak in the atmosphere of an SEC football game, especially if it is your first one because there really is nothing like it. So, sing all the songs too loud and enjoy your new friends. It all goes by way too fast.

Carly Phillips

8 | TOWNANDGOWNMAGAZINE.COM

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#5 Professional Plaza Starkville, MS 39759 662.323.0999

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September 2017 | 9

Labor Day

MSU New south Weekends: vs.

Night Market Charlesoton Southern 3pm

MSU @ LA Tech

Bulldog Bash

MSU vs LSU 6pm

MSU @ Georgia

MSU @ Auburn

Town & Gown’s

Tailgate Wishlist

Maroon & White Flower arrangment: University Florist

Hand painted cowbell: Liza Ty& Co.

MSU Serving dish: Giggleswick

Bulldog Pillow: Liza Tye & Co MSU Tailgate Chairs: Maroon & Co Walkers Blackberry Margarita Mix: Liza Tye & Co

Mstate Silverware holder: Giggleswick

MState Stainless Steel Icecubes: Giggleswick September 2017 | 13

Gameday Pins: Maroon & Co

Battle Bell: Maroon & Co

MState light-up cooler: GunCo

14 | TOWNANDGOWNMAGAZINE.COM

Maroon & White dipped Orca Tumbler:: Maroon & Co

Casual MState plates: Liza Tye

Round Bulldog box: Liza Tye & Co September 2017 | 15

GAME DAY Nanny

J

Written by Richelle Putnam Photos by Divian Connor

essica Cunningham has been babysitting most of her life. Her mom ran a daycare in their home until Jessica was 10. At 13, she was out babysitting on her own.

And she never stopped.

“About five or six years ago I was babysitting for a lot of people in town,” said Jessica. “People were trying to reserve me for football games three months in advance. There was this huge need for babysitters.”

That made Jessica wonder…what if a business supplied reliable babysitters to game goers so parents could enjoy the game and the kids could what kids do…play?

“I decided, by golly, I’m just going to do it.”

And she did.

16 | TOWNANDGOWNMAGAZINE.COM

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Jessica comes to the babysitting business table with more than past babysitting experience. For 10 years, she has worked as an assistant teacher in the preschool for special needs children at the T. K. Martin Center for Technology and Disability on the Mississippi State campus.

She has a Bachelors in Arts & Sciences with a Special Ed in Psychology concentration. She is currently pursuing Dyslexia certification.

“Luckily, because I work on campus, I know college age girls looking for babysitting jobs,” she said. “And I have clients who need babysitters.”

Game Day nannies are background checked and CPR certified. Nannies don’t have to be college students, but must be 16 and older. Those chosen within the 16 to 18 age range are highly experienced and recommended.

“When I hire someone under the age of 18, they have to be the exception to the rule,” said Jessica.

During daytime games, many parents want their kids with them, so the nannies hang out and play with the kids at the tailgate, making sure they stay within a safe, confined area.

“I’ll go out that day and meet the client, because meeting face to face helps build trust between me and my clients,” said Jessica. For night games, most clients usually want the sitter to come to where the family is staying overnight. The nannies come wherever your kids are going to be, “but I don’t allow my nannies to drive the kids.”

Game Day Nanny caters to any large MSU event, so concentrated advertising efforts remain mostly on football games, the most productive time of the year.

“Nannies can be reserved for basketball game finals, baseball game finals,” said Jessica. “What kid doesn’t love having someone devote all their attention just to them

and play whatever games they want?”

Parents usually stick with their Game Day nanny because the parents and the kids get to know and trust that particular nanny. Plus, parents don’t have to keep repeating the same routine schedule, contact information, and special directions.

“One family has had the same nanny for three years. She’s the only one that they want and she’s pretty much their nanny.”

Jessica stays in constant communication with the nannies and calls them the next day to make sure everything went smoothly and was handled appropriately.

“I’ll also touch base with the client to see how they liked the nanny. Everyone has my phone number and I purposely stay available on game day in case a nanny gets sick last minute, or the client cancels last minute, or if something happens. I can show up at any time and help with any situation that may arise.”

Game Day Nanny is qualified to handle special needs kids. Most of the college-age girls have experience with special needs and are pursuing a degree in a related field, explained Jessica.

“This is not a call up somebody and get a random sitter. These well-qualified girls are put through the process to be sure they are safe and reliable. We are here to provide that to our clients.”

Contact Game Day Nanny through their Facebook page or email gamedaynanny@gmail.com.

RATES: $15 an hour for up to two children • three and up goes to $5 per child.

For two families in the same location, a second nanny is a flat fee of $50. Books up to two weeks in advance. Accepts cash and PayPal.

September 2017 | 19

Guide to tailgate catering in Starkville 2 Brothers FAN FAVORITES: Smoked Wings, Smoked Pulled Pork, side fixings 103 C Rue Du Grand Fromage, Starkville, MS 39759 662.617.8095

Little Dooey’s FAN FAVORITES: Pulled Pork Platter, Chicken Halves, Jumbo Chicken Tenders, side fixings 100 Fellowship St, Starkville, MS 39759 662.323.6094

Oby’s FAN FAVORITES: Sandwhich platter, Jumbalaya, or Red Beans and Rice, side fixings 504 Academy Rd, Starkville, MS 39759 662.323.0444

20 | TOWNANDGOWNMAGAZINE.COM

THE EVOLUTION OF SCOTT FIELD AND MSU FOOTBALL Y

ou probably couldn’t imagine it today, but Scott Field – now known as Davis Wade Stadium – didn’t have lights back in 1982. Which posed a problem when ESPN asked Mississippi State (MSU) to move their home game with LSU from Saturday afternoon to Thursday evening for a nationwide broadcast.

“Capacity of Scott Field prior to expansion was just under 32,000,” said Larry Templeton, Director of Athletics Emeritus at MSU and consultant to the Southeastern Conference (SEC) Commissioner. “It was (then-athletic director) Carl Maddox’s idea to rent the lights with the assistance of ESPN. No question that game created a great atmosphere for the university and athletic program. Winning the game just added icing on the cake.”

Times have certainly changed. Davis Wade

Article written by Joe Lee Photos provided by Mississippi State Athletics 22 | TOWNANDGOWNMAGAZINE.COM

H A I L S T A T E

Stadium seats over 60,000 today, and the game day experience on campus brings people from throughout the southeast who make a weekend of it in Starkville. Templeton, who graduated from MSU in 1969 and began working in the athletic department while in high school, credits the city of Starkville and the MSU student body as well as Maddox for the early push to grow.

“It was also his concept to expand the west side upper deck in addition to adding lights for night games. The project would not have happened if the City of Starkville had not stepped up by allowing the university to use its bonding capability.

Starkville not only floated the obligation bonds but paid a portion of the revenue bonds used for the stadium project.

“Equally important was the MSU Student Association leading a vote to increase student fees earmarked for the project. Needless to say, our Bulldog fans stepped up with a commitment to pledge and pay for a 10-year commitment on chairback seats in the 100 and 200 levels. The ability to have night games and chairback seating totally changed the atmosphere of home football games.”

Jim Ellis, the play-by-play voice of the MSU football team for the past six seasons and part of the football broadcast unit for over three decades, said that while big-name opponents certainly fired up the fans when Bob Tyler, Emory Bellard and Rockey Felker all coached, the hiring of Jackie Sherrill in 1991 drastically changed the game day experience.

“Tailgating became a big deal,” Ellis said. “The team walk – coming down the side street – became a big deal. We went to bowls most years (during the Sherrill era). For ten years, we had big crowds and lots of excitement.” “(The hiring of Sherrill) allowed us to send a signal to all of college football that Mississippi State was prepared to move football to the highest level,” Templeton said. “And Jackie won some really big games to quick-start us.”

Among them were wins over national power Texas in 1991 and 1992. Sherrill’s 1998 team played in the SEC Championship Game in Atlanta. But the Egg Bowl returning to Starkville in 1991 marked the first time the annual Ole Miss-MSU tilt had been played on either campus in two decades. And it helped set the stage to further expand the stadium September 2017 | 23

with club seating and sky boxes.

“It did not make sense for us to expand the east side if we were going to continue to play our big SEC games – and, more importantly, the Ole Miss game – in Jackson,” Templeton said. “I had always felt the Egg Bowl needed to be played on the campus. I also was well aware of the political pressure the athletic department would place on the university, and the difficult position it would put (then MSU) President (Donald) Zacharias in.

“Man, did Dr. Z stand tall with us. In every conversation, he would tell me to do what was best for the university. It wasn’t an easy decision, and certainly one that ruffled feathers in the capital city area.”

But excitement ebbed a bit as Sherrill’s final three teams weren’t as competitive and the Sylvester Croom squads from 2004-2008 were up and down. Likewise, the game day experience in those years hardly had the electrified atmosphere it does today. Former athletic director Scott Stricklin, who graduated from MSU in 1992, was well aware of the situation long before returning to his alma mater.

“When I was at Auburn and Kentucky, I got to see MSU from a different perspective,” said Stricklin, now the athletic director at the University of Florida. “I tailgated with my brother in 2006 and it was kind of subdued. It entered my mind 24 | TOWNANDGOWNMAGAZINE.COM

that the fans needed a hug. They needed to be encouraged.”

Stricklin was hired as associate athletic director in 2008 and worked for Greg Byrne. Two years later he replaced Byrne and served until October 2016. He points to a conversation he and Byrne had – over iced tea at Barnes and Noble in the Cullis Wade Depot – that shaped the direction the game day experience would take.

“Greg and I agreed it had to be an event people wanted to come to, regardless of the wins and losses,” Stricklin said. “Greg put the video board in the south end zone, which was the first time MSU had an idea that was really unique, that other folks weren’t doing.

“He showed great leadership in terms of getting a new thought process going, as well as bringing in Dan Mullen. We needed to be different from the way we’d been in the past. Dan is kind of brash and not afraid to put himself out there, which I admire. (MSU President) Dr. (Mark) Keenum did a great job of working with the other SEC presidents to get cowbells allowed in the stadium again.”

“You can’t help but feel proud,” Stricklin added.

September 2017 | 25

“Larry Templeton, going way back, deserves a lot of credit for making the decision to move the Egg Bowl back to the campuses. That laid a lot of the groundwork for the success of the last 8-10 years. The MSU environment isn’t the biggest, but it is one of the most unique in all of college football.”

“The east side expansion would not have happened had Mr. Davis Wade and Mr. Cullis Wade not stepped up with a terrific lead contribution,” Templeton said. “These two great Bulldog men put their money up front to get us started. A lot of Bulldog supporters – and I mean thousands – responded by buying sky boxes, club seats and season tickets. We finally had a competitive stadium to compete with our fellow SEC members.”

Current athletic director John Cohen played baseball at MSU from 1988-1990 and went to the College World Series his final year. While the baseball fan experience has always had the aura of the Left Field Lounge (as well as elite teams most years), Cohen knows that Game Day during football season has come a long way since his undergraduate days – and that maintaining momentum is a must to keep excitement high among fans.

“If you’re not moving forward in the SEC, you can get behind,” Cohen said. “We’re looking at every possible opportunity to serve our fans, alumni and student-athletes at a higher level. We’re always experimenting. Nothing is off the table. “(This year) the team will run right by the loge section in the south end zone, which seats about 100. I think the loge section will be a great experience – it offers something we’ve never had in the south end We’ll see how it goes and make some decisions after the season.”

Ellis, who’ll begin his thirty-ninth season as the voice of the MSU baseball team next spring, will continue to enjoy the game day experience at Davis Wade Stadium. It’s something he sees as beneficial not only to the university, but to the throng of fans who make it a priority to be there.

“I go to all the venues in the SEC, and I think we’re right there among the best in terms of atmosphere with anyone in the league,” Ellis said. “As someone who has watched all my life, there’s a lot of pride. We’ve arrived. We’re respected around the country.

“What’s best is that people tailgate together, see each other each weekend, build those friendships over the years, and celebrate life at the football game.”

28 | TOWNANDGOWNMAGAZINE.COM

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GUNCO Empowering through Self Defense Education

Written by Clint Kimberling • Photography by Letty Weeks

A

ndrew Welborn is the owner of GunCo, a new full service gun and sportsman’s supply store in Starkville. But GunCo is a little different than your typical outdoor supplier or gun dealer.

GunCo offers a whole range of classes from basic handgun safety, to unarmed self defense and even tactical shooting training.

The idea for offering classes, Welborn says, came from what he feels is a necessity for the gun carrying community, especially in a conceal carry state like Mississippi. “We want to focus on education, training, and safety. A ton of people own guns, and even own more handguns. But most people that carry don’t train with their weapon,” he says. He sees a lot of people at the gun range who have carried for years, and fire their gun regularly, but have never practiced, for instance, a draw stroke. “And that’s how accidents happen,” he says.

The courses available at GunCo give gun owners an arena to practice hands on training with a certified instructor. The most popular course at GunCo is Mississippi Enhance Carry—a basic 30 | TOWNANDGOWNMAGAZINE.COM

handgun class. A certification in this course is an endorsement that allows carry in a few more places than a basic conceal carry permit. The class itself is centered on Mississippi laws, and instructs people on what they can and can’t do with their gun as well as the basics of marksmanship. “The class is focused on basic mechanics and the purpose is to certify individuals to safely use their gun.”

The advanced classes and tactical skills training will teach draw stroke, how to fire multiple rounds on target, focusing on multiple targets, as well as moving and shooting at the same time. The goal, Welborn says, “is to move beyond the basics and to teach actual defense, mechanics, skill building, and a defensive mindset.”

GunCo also teaches unarmed self defense classes. These courses are popular for college students in the area who aren’t allowed to carry guns on campus. Welborn has been involved in martial arts for years and feels that everyone should have a basic understanding of self defense. The class teaches not just technique and body position but also mindset and awareness, steps you can take to avoid some situations altogether.

Conceal carry handguns are the most popular items at GunCo. The store sells a whole range of pistols that can be bought for as low as $200 and up to $4,000. Welborn realizes that a $4,000 gun is not for everyone, but he cautions that buying a gun is not the time to be thrifty. “Don’t buy the cheapest thing just because it’s cheap. It’s a defense tool and it needs to be thought of as such. You want to make sure it works and you’re comfortable with it.”

September 2017 | 31

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February 2015 • 61

For someone who is buying their first gun, Andrew recommends putting your hands on as many as you can and to take a chance to it shoot if possible. To this end, GunCo employs a shortterm rental program that will allow customers to shoot 5 rounds on a firearm they’re interested in purchasing.

The second thing Welborn advocates for novice and experienced gun owners alike is practice.

And to practice good habits. Poor trigger discipline is something he sees all the time even from experienced gun owners. “The key principle behind trigger discipline,” Welborn explains, “is to not touch the trigger until you’re ready to fire. A lot people naturally rest finger their on trigger, even in the store. It’s just not safe.”

GunCo has an onsite vault with gun storage lockers for safely and securely store firearms.

This service is used frequently by college students who aren’t allowed to have guns on campus or in their apartment complex. They also offer gunsmith services and can handle repairs, cleaning, maintenance and even customization of guns.

A range is under construction at their current location and Welborn hopes to have it open soon and is looking forward to having the range available to customers. “We like to focus on service and the customer. I want everyone leaving the store happy,” he says.

Visit www.guncousa.com for more information on their services and classes.

September 2017 | 33

Bringing Luxury

TAILGATING

Written by Clint Kimberling

to Mississippi State

Like all good business ideas, Southern Tradition Tailgating was born out of necessity.

Brad Vickers first had the thought for a tailgating service almost 10 years ago. He remembers the moment distinctly. It was 2008 during his second year at Mississippi State as a professor. During a fall Saturday in the Junction, while waiting for kickoff, he wanted to watch his graduate alma mater, University of Georgia, but he couldn’t find a TV anywhere at the tailgate. He eventually did find a place to watch the game, but he thought to himself, “there’s has to be a better way.”

That spark of inspiration was all he needed to start Southern Tradition Tailgating – he envisioned a tailgate rental company that took the entire headache out of tailgating and would allow customers to focus on relaxing and getting ready for the game. There was not much traction for the idea at first but Vickers recalls when the corner was turned. Over the Fourth of July weekend in 2009 he sold his first tailgating package for the 2009 season. “I just thought it was so awesome people were going to pay us for this.”

Southern Tradition offers premium tailgating services at Mississippi State football games. Customers can buy complete tailgating rental packages that also include convenience set-up and takedown services. The only things customers have to worry about are food and drinks. A standard Southern Tradition tailgate rental package includes a 10 x 20 premium tent, a 32-inch flat screen TV,

Photos provided by Southern Tradition Tailgating

Dish Network receiver, two tables, chairs, and lighting. Most importantly, customers enjoy the convenience of setup and takedown of all equipment plus onsite staff for troubleshooting and maintenance.

Southern Traditions also offers fully customizable tailgate packages. Vickers boasts, “We can make your tailgate as big, or as small, as customer wants. We can add-on a bigger TV, more chairs, a second tent, even provide coolers. We’re only limited by a customer’s budget.”

The Southern Traditions team has tailgating setup down to a science as they head into their ninth football season as the exclusive tailgate provider for Mississippi State and Bulldog Sports Properties. Even with all the experience, it’s an incredibly labor intensive process. On home game weekends, beginning at 5:30 a.m., a crew of about 30 people arranges the table and tent. They continue to work on the electrical setup, including satellite dishes until 4:00 p.m.

September 2017 | 35

On Saturday morning, they put in place the lights, generators, TVs. After kickoff, there is a lot of down time that is mostly spent checking on customer tents and making sure everything is working properly. The crew starts to break down tents and equipment around 10:00 p.m. and will remain on site until about 3 a.m. on Sunday morning. “There’s not much sleep during the season,” Vickers tells me. “But it’s rewarding when it all goes off without a hitch.”

Southern Tradition started out doing 24 setups their first season. And this year they will do close to 150 tailgates. Vickers still recalls to some of the growing pains from that first season. There was a rainy home opener that left a lot of their equipment destroyed, tents blown all over the place, and wet TVs. “We really thought we were in over our heads,” Vickers says thinking back. “But by the fourth game we kind of got our feet under us.”

36 | TOWNANDGOWNMAGAZINE.COM

a g e s fro m S ta n d a rd Pa c k season $ 3 ,5 0 0 fo r th e ou th er n trad h tt p: // w w w.s

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As a company, they’ve been careful not to grow too fast for danger of sacrificing quality and customer service. Vickers explains, “I like to have relationships with our customers.

More than just tailgating, I feel like I’m really in customer service business.”

Vickers feels like Starkville doesn’t really get its due as a great tailgating atmosphere.

And take it from him because he’s been to tailgates all over the country, he says it’s one of the best venues that he’s seen. “The sheer number of fans,” he explains, “is incredible.

You just don’t see that many tents anywhere.”

He goes on, saying, “There’s more space here, you can spread out, throw the football or play cornhole. It’s more of a community.”

Vickers encourages tailgaters to show up early and make it a full day. “I never understood why some folks come an hour before kickoff. I mean you only get 7 Saturdays each fall, so take full advantage of the atmosphere and community.”

September 2017 | 37

38 | TOWNANDGOWNMAGAZINE.COM

Bulldog Bash 2017 Friday, September 15 Written by Joe lee Who said Starkville was a sleepy little college town with nothing going on?

Prepare yourself for a sea of maroon and white-clad fans and deafening cowbells as Bulldog Bash, set for Friday, September 15, relocates downtown from the Cotton District.

This year’s headliner, the red-hot ensemble DNCE, will pump up the volume with their mega-hit “Cake by the Ocean” as Bulldog fans get ready for the SEC home opener against LSU at Davis Wade Stadium the following night.

“Bulldog Bash has become a Mississippi State tradition,” said Andrew McDavid, a sop omore Civil Engineering major from Madison and this year’s public relations coordinator.

“It is a huge festival that kicks off SEC football play. People who attend Bulldog Bash can expect to experience a great concert as well as a variety of vendors – all for free. It’s the largest free outdoor concert in Mississippi.”

Allie Nichols, Bulldog Bash director and a junior Secondary Education major from Gulfport, said this year’s party was relocated to downtown in order to give organizers more room for production and a better handle on crowd control.

“Bulldog Bash kicks off the school year and is a great event that brings together the community, students, and alumni for a day of music and culture,” she said. “The Maroon Market features local artists, retailers, and student organizations that are all set up along Main Street in the afternoon.

“We will also have local musicians and food vendors set up. Around 7:00, our main stage kicks off with multiple national performers. Past headliners have included Justin Moore, MisterWives, the Avett Brothers, and Jake Owen.”

Plan on heavy traffic for Bulldog Bash, and count on frenzied excitement that organizers hope will continue right on through Saturday and help lift MSU to a win over perennial rival LSU. “Many roads will be closed off that in previous years were open throughout the day,” McDavid said. “Attendees should adjust their routes. This year we’re expecting around 35,000.”

For more information, visit www.msubulldogbash.com.

September 2017 | 39

Your Home on the Weekends: Game Day Housing in Starkville Sundance 624 S. Montgomery

Sundance located on 624 South Montgomery offer luxury 2nd or game day homes right in the heart of Starkville. With the option of 2/3 bedroom condos, all residents have full access to their own private patio, a courtyard that is equipped with a green egg and a firepit, and is centrally located near the best shopping, restaurants and campus. We are proud to say that we are currently in Phase 1 with the beginning of Phase 2 in the near future. Sundance is located next to other popular developments such as the Delphine and the Antebella.

Call us today at Starkville Properties to get more information.

40 | TOWNANDGOWNMAGAZINE.COM

The Gin on Russell

Include this snippet: imagine living in your brand new luxury condominium located in Starkville’s historic Cotton District. Whether this is your home or your “home away from home” you’ll be living in comfort within walking distance to fine dining, shopping, and leisure while sensing the excitement in the air being at “Our State”! The Gin on Russell is nestled in the very midst of Bulldog Country, located in the Cotton District just across Highway 12 from Campus. You’ll always have a place to call home at The Gin on Russell!

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Starkville Properties: Meet our Staff

Front row: Libby Gerald, Melanie Mitchell, Judy Webb, Natalie Langston, Josh Creekmore Back Row-Jay Murphy, Catharine Hammett, Amanda Edwards, Josh Whitlock, Lee Battle and Joe Webb Not pictured Teresa Brooks and Callie McRight

Starkville Properties has a reputation of being the leader of second and game day homes and condos here in Starkville, MS. The Gin on Russell and Sundance partnered with them for their listing agent due to their ability to their reputable service to go above and beyond with every customer. Melanie Mitchell, Principal Broker, and Judy Webb, Broker, are co-owners of Starkville Properties and have had a booming business since 2002. With 13 exceptional licensees, Starkville Properties have been the recipients of numerous awards, including that of the Number 1 real estate company in residential sales in the Golden Triangle Association as of 2016. Mitchell and her team have the mission to provide excellence in residential, commercial and investment real estate services. One thing that is so unique about their company is the fact that they provide their own moving truck which they offer to buyers and sellers.

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662-324-0037

StarkvillePropertiesMS.com

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DIY Design your own tailgate serving plate Go Dawgs Plate 1.Choose bisque (pottery) of choice.

2.Apply 2 coats of Antique White to the top.

3.Transfer a design of your choice with carbon paper. Ball Point Pen works best 4.Paint design with colors of choice. 2-3 coats give you the best results.

5.Leave to be fired for permanency.

You can make this platter or one similar for $25-$45

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Chevron Chip and Dip 1.Choose a rounded rim platter or plate, and match it with a small Yukon, sundae, or guacamole bowl.

2.Apply chevron tape in a diagonal fashion over the entire platter. Use painters tape to seal the edges of the platter.

3.Paint the inside of your platter with 3 coats for a nice glossy finish.

4.Turn the platter over and apply a basecoat of stroke and coat paint and then apply a jungle gem (these paints have bits of color that burst when heat is applied) of your choice.

5.Remove all tape from the platter.

6.Use a small dotting sponge to remove any stray paint that may have leaked under your tape, and clean your rim so you have a crisp border.

7.Apply tape to the outside of the bowl in the same fashion and repeat the steps previously taken.

8.Paint a basecoat to in the inside of the bowl and then apply your pops of color.

9.Clean any glitches with a sponge.

10.Ask the staff to clear glaze your unpainted areas where the tape has been removed, and leave your piece to be fired.

Estimated cost to make this serving combo or similar is $40-$60

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Rusted Element Server 1.Choose your platter based upon your serving needs.

2.Apply 1 coat of Tidal Pool to the inside of the platter without exceeding to the rim.

3.Apply 2 coats of Mudslide to the rim and the edges.

4.Apply 2 coats of Turtle Shell to the inside of the platter on top of the Tidal Pool layer you previous painted.

5.Apply 1 coat of Copper Adventure to the edges of your platter. Then apply it where the inner most part of the platter meets the rim.

6.Take the jungle gem, Oriental Carmel, and sporadically apply it around the rim of the platter while allowing some excess to drip towards the center of the platter.

7.When the front of your server is dry, flip it over and apply 2 coats of Rare Earth and 1 coat of Copper Adventure to the back.

8.Select an add-on of your choice. Addons are small bisque pieces that can be atheized to your platter when fired. This will give your server more character.

9.Take the left-over paint from your previously used brushes and sponge it on to the add-on in no particular fashion.

10.Place the add-on where you would like it to be permanently atheized.

11.Leave your piece to be fired.

This server can be made for approximately $35-$70 46 | TOWNANDGOWNMAGAZINE.COM

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Tailgating Tips to Keep You in the Game Written by Katie Langley, PT, PMA-CPT, of Therapeutic Pilates, LLC

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owbells, coolers, and crowds... all the fun of football season in Starkville is upon us once again, and MSU hosts seven games! As always, one of the most anticipated highlights is SEC-style tailgating. Every serious fan knows a proper tailgate requires the perfect setup and that means stuff... lots and lots of stuff. Car battery, inverter, and LED TV? Yes. Tent, tables, and chairs? Yes. Ice chests and tons of delicious food and drink? Yes. Chandeliers? Let’s not get ahead of ourselves.

Whoever you are, transporting all that gear from your vehicles to the prime tailgate spot without injury requires a smart game plan. Otherwise, a joint injury or painful flare up of irritated muscles could have you sidelined for the game, or even the entire season.

Here are four winning plays to add to your tailgating plan this year:

1. Be aware of your posture when sitting in a

chair. The most common sling-style tailgating chairs offer insufficient support for your back, and can lead to pain and stiffness in your entire body. If you’ve ever noticed upper back and neck pain, or a bad headache after sitting in a slouched position, you’re not alone. It could be because your pelvis (your “base”) is placed in a poor position, making proper alignment of all other joints and muscles along your spine challenging. Prevent pain, soreness, and injury by sitting in a firmer chair, changing positions often, and spending plenty of time standing and walking. Keeping your body moving is a great way to keep these issues at bay and literally take steps toward a healthier lifestyle!

3. Invest in a cart or wagon to transport your

heavy or awkward gear. For uphill climbs, remember that pushing will require less effort and potential strain on your back. Find a teammate to push the cart from behind, using both hands and keeping their core straight and engaged.

When carrying items, be sure to position the heaviest part of the load as close to the middle of your core as possible. When it comes to bags, opt for a backpack instead of a tote bag so the weight will be more evenly distributed.

4. The first few games in the season can be

HOT! When your body doesn’t get enough water, multiple body systems are affected, including your muscular system. Just like the players, getting dehydrated can make you more prone to 2. Choose your shoes carefully, keeping in mind injury. Be sure to stay hydrated by drinking plenhow far you’ll be walking. High heels might look ty of cold water and consume foods with higher great, but they change your center of gravity. water content (think fresh fruits and veggies). If This causes the entire body to make adjustyou choose to imbibe, consider alternating with ments at various joints up the chain (ankles, non- alcoholic beverages. knees, hips, spine) to balance and stand on an When integrated into your game plan, these four uneven surface. Instead, go for a sporty chic simple steps will help keep you in the game and look and rock your newest pair of athletic shoes enjoying the SEC lifestyle with your family and or flats. Choose a shoe with good support and friends all season long. Who knows, you might adequate cushion. Doing this will have you ready need to stay healthy so you can root for the to gain extra yardage even after the tailgate and Bulldogs in the postseason... around New Years... game are over. or beyond! GO DAWGS! 48 | TOWNANDGOWNMAGAZINE.COM

DIAMONDS & FINE JEWELRY A Great Tradition Continues

Fine Jewelry & Watches Expert In-House Jewelry Repair Golden Triangle’s Exclusive

Dealer

Jamie Parkerson - Graduate Gemologist

www.jparkersonjewelers.com • 100 Russell St., Suite 7 • Starkville 662-268-8058

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Made in Mississippi

‘Grits & Greens: It’s All Made in the Magnolia, Y’all!’

Written by Sasha Steinberg • Photography by Brittney Dowell

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fter a few years of co-owning Tupelo Trophy and Gifts with her husband Terry, Mantachie resident Carrie Buse decided she wanted to open a Southern soul-food restaurant in the All-American City of Tupelo.

“I bought all of the cooking equipment and designed the logo for Grits & Greens in 2013 using wood-cutting lasers at Tupelo Trophy and Gifts,” said Buse, who had worked most of her life in the restaurant business.

Well on the way to making her dream a reality, Buse ultimately found herself shelving the restaurant idea due to family circumstances. Her determination to bring the Grits & Greens concept to life, however, remained strong.

“We were already making wooden Christmas ornaments at Tupelo Trophy and Gifts, and we had so much good wood that we didn’t want to go to waste,” Buse recalled. “So, that’s when I started making jewelry.”

In 2015, Buse established her Grits & Greens jewelry and ornament line. In addition to wood and leather jewelry and ornaments of varying styles and colors, the Southern-inspired gift collection currently includes cutting boards, rolling pins, bottle opener magnets, fridge magnets, keychains, backpack tags, and cell phone wallets. Cowbell earrings is Grits & Greens best-seller, Buse said.

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Within the Grits & Greens brand, Buse created Gypsissippi, a trendy, gypsy-inspired collection featuring a range of designs, from cow skulls to flowers to arrows.

“My parents were junky gypsies before it was cool to be that,” Buse laughed. “They had an antique store when I was young. I never imagined I would grow up and be a junk gypsie myself, but my wheels never stop turning. I try to put all of the creativity in my mind to good use.”

Grits & Greens and Gypsissippi products may be purchased from Tupelo Trophy and Gifts at its new location - 810 Robert E. Lee Drive Extended in Tupelo’s Midtown District. Buse said her designs also can be found at nearly 70 retail locations throughout the South, including Giggleswick – Purveyors of Fine Gifts on Highway 12 in Starkville.

“I have created stitched-heart-logo ornaments for the tree at LeBonheur Children’s Hospital in Memphis,” Buse said. “I also have designed and made jewelry approved by Elvis Presley Enterprises for the Tupelo Elvis Presley Fan Club to sell at the Elvis Fest, which is pretty cool.”

Most of Buse’s jewelry items are made up of layered materials. She created one of her favorite designs at the request of the B.B. King Museum and Delta Interpretive Center in Indianola.

“I made a cutout shape of Mississippi, put a cutout guitar on top of it and then put a little red heart in the center of the guitar. I had been doing the shape of Mississippi with a guitar layered on top of it for a couple of years for the B.B. King Museum, but when other boutiques buy that design, they prefer we add the red heart,” Buse explained.

“The little red heart has kind of become our signature thing. It gives the piece a little extra pop,” she said, adding with a laugh, “Sometimes, things just need a little heart.”

Whether looking for a ready-made piece or custom gift, patrons deserve quality products and customer service. Through her Grits & Greens brand, Buse is driven to provide that positive experience.

“Making jewelry is very time- and labor-intensive, but I enjoy it,” she said. “It makes me feel good when people call up and say they like my jewelry and think it’s cute and unique. I’m very blessed and grateful.”

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Taste & Toast Article and photography by Karen Gerard

Queso Dip 8 oz cheese of your choice 1 tbsp cornstarch 1/2 tbsp 1 large garlic clove, minced 1/4 cup diced yellow onion 1 13 oz can evaporated milk 1 small tomato, finely diced 1/4 tsp each onion powder, garlic powder, cumin 4 oz can of chopped green chile 1/4 cup finely chopped cilantro 2 - 3 tbsp milk Salt to taste 1. Shred or grate the cheese and toss with with the corn starch in a bowl.

2. Melt butter in a sauce pan and cook the garlic and onion in butter until soft and translucent.

3. Add the chopped tomato and cook for 2 minutes more. 4. Pour in the evaporated milk, starch coated cheese, chiles and spices and mix until fully melted and homogenous.

5. Stir in milk to desired consistency and serve warm.

6. Store in the refrigerator in a sealed jar or container and reheat in the microwave.

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KITCHEN SINK BROWNIES 11⁄4 cups all-purpose flour 1 tsp salt 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder 11 oz dark chocolate, coarsely chopped 1 cup unsalted butter, cubed 1 tsp instant espresso powder (optional) 11⁄2 cups granulated sugar 1⁄2 cup packed light brown sugar 5 eggs at room temperature 2 tsp vanilla extract toppings such as chewy chocolate chip cookies, mini pretzels, potato chips, and m&ms

1. Preheat the oven to 350 F and line the bottom and sides of a 9x13” pan with parchment paper.

Grease the paper.

2. Combine the flour, salt, and cocoa powder in a bowl.

3. Melt the chocolate, butter and instant espresso powder in a heat-proof bowl over simmering water until smooth and melted. Turn off the heat and add the granulated and brown sugar to the melted butter and chocolate. Whisk until completely combined and then remove the bowl from the heat and let cool to room temperature.

4. Whisk 3 eggs into the chocolate until fully incorporated. Add the remaining 2 eggs and vanilla extract and whisk again until JUST combined, taking care not to overbeat.

5. Pour the dry ingredients over the chocolate and with a spatula FOLD the dry ingredients into the chocolate until just barely integrated and some flour is still visible.

6. Pour into your greased and lined pan and smooth the top 7. Bake for 15 minutes and then remove the pan from the oven.

8. Chop or crumble your chosen toppings over the pan and gently press into the top layer of the brownies.

9. Bake 10 minutes more or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out slightly moist.

10. Cool in the pan on a baking rack. Lift the brownies out of the pan using the parchment paper and cut into squares. Store covered at room temperature for up to three days.

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10 oz ground beef 1/2 large sweet onion, diced 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 tbsp sugar 1 tbsp prepared yellow mustard 1 tbsp dried, minced onion 2 tsp chili powder 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce 1 tsp salt 1/2 tsp celery salt 1/2 tsp ground cumin 1/4 tsp ground black pepper 1, 8 oz can tomato sauce 1 tbsp tomato paste 1 cup water 1tsp corn starch, optional

CHILI SAUCE

1. Brown the ground beef in a large pan over medium-high heat with the diced onion. Add in the garlic, sugar, dried onion, chili powder, Worcestershire, salt, celery salt, cumin, and black pepper.

Stir and let cook for 1-2 minutes.

2. Add in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, and water and simmer for 30 minutes, uncovered.

3. Use an immersion blender to turn the chili into a smooth, pourable sauce or very carefully transfer to a blender and pulse to your desired consistency.

4. Transfer back into the pot and simmer 20 minutes to an hour. Serve hot at the Frito pie bar, over hot dogs, fries, nachos, or chili burgers.

5. Optional: If your sauce is more liquid than you would like, whisk in 1 teaspoon of cornstarch and quickly bring to a boil to tighten it up a bit.

FRITO PIE BAR 6 small bags of Fritos corn chips 1 recipe chili sauce (or your favorite homemade tailgate chili) Guacamole Sour cream Shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese Sliced pickled jalapeno peppers 1.Arrange your Frito pie bar components in bowls with forks and spoons.

2. Carefully cut open the chip bags to create pouches and let guests serve themselves from the assorted toppings.

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CHEESEBURGER BITES 1 bag frozen tater tots 1 lb ground beef 1/2 cup diced yellow onion 1 can condensed cheddar cheese soup 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese 4-6 slices of bacon, prepared and crumbled 1/4 cup sour cream Salt and pepper Burger sauce Mini pickles 1. Preheat oven to 425°F. 2. Grease a mini muffin pan and put two or three tater tots in each cup. Bake for 10 minutes and then remove from oven and press the back of a wooden spoon into the tater tots to create cups.

3. Return to the oven and bake 10-15 minutes more. 4. Meanwhile, cook the beef and onions in a saucepan until beef is browned and onions are softened and then drain.

5. Add the cheese soup, sour cream, half of the crumbled bacon, and half of the cheddar, salt and pepper to taste and mix.

6. Fill the tater tot cups with the beef mixture and top with the remaining cheese and bacon. 7. Bake for 15 minutes.

8. Let cool 5 minutes and carefully remove cheeseburger bites from the pan with a small spatula.

9. Drizzle burger sauce onto muffins and garnish with pickle slices or serve sauce in a dipping cup.

BURGER SAUCE 1/2 cup mayonnaise 1 tablespoon ketchup 1 tablespoon yellow mustard 4 slices kosher dill pickle 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder 1/4 teaspoon paprika Pinch cayenne pepper 1. Combine all the ingredients in a blender and puree until smooth.

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Game Day Fashion

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Make up by Merle Norman Luna Bella Hair by Chromatix on Main Photography by Divian Connor

Models:

Dannette Barrier Pattie Little Taylor Vickers Morgan Buchannan Nathan Montgomery Leighton Olivia

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Clothes provided by Liza Tye

Clothes provided by Sisters Fine Clothing September 2017 | 59

Clothes provided by Liza Tye 60 | TOWNANDGOWNMAGAZINE.COM

Clothes provided by Sisters Fine Clothing

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Clothes provided by Liza Tye

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Clothes provided by Liza Tye

Clothes provided by Sisters Fine Clothing September 2017 | 65

Clothes provided by Sisters Fine Clothing

Clothes provided by Wig Twizzle September 2017 | 69

Clothes provided by Wig Twizzle

Hogs for a Cause August 12, 2017 Photos by Margaret McMullen

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Denim & Diamonds August 19, 2017 Photos by Devon McCaskill

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Forks & Corks August 19, 2017 Photos by Anna Barker

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17 MISSISSIPPI’S COLLEGE TOWN

S T A T E

SEP 1-3

Fri: Night Market

SEP 15-17

Fri: Bulldog Bash

OCT 13-15

Fri: Pumpkinpalooza

OCT 20-22

Fri: Citywide Tailgate

NOV 3-5

Fri: unWine Downtown

NOV 11-12

Sat: MSU v. Alabama Sun: Bulldog Brunch & Browse

NOV 23-26

Thu: MSU v. Ole Miss

/mscollegetown

visit.starkville.org

Sat: MSU v. Charleston Sun: Bulldog Brunch & Browse Sat: MSU v. LSU Sun: Bulldog Brunch & Browse Sat: MSU v. BYU Sun: Bulldog Brunch & Browse MSU Homecoming Sat: MSU v. Kentucky Sun: Bulldog Brunch & Browse Sat: MSU v. UMass Sun: Bulldog Brunch & Browse

Christmas Open House & Cookies with Santa Fri: Black Friday Bonanza Sun: Bulldog Brunch & Browse

IG: @starkvillems

POWERED BY

The safety of our area athletes is the number one priority for the OCH Sports Medicine Team.

With sports-related concussions reaching an epidemic level in the U.S., OCH’s certified athletic trainers are proud to offer players access to the region’s only C3Logix System. Developed by neurospecialists, sports medicine professionals and technology experts, this system removes the guesswork from concussion injury assessment and helps physicians and caregivers determine an appropriate timeline for athletes to resume activity and safely return to play.

The OCH Sports Medicine Team and C3Logix...

Keeping area athletes healthy and in the game!

www.och.org