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Table of
Contents IN EVERY ISSUE
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6 Staff 8 Letter From the Editor 10 T&G News 18 Social 59 T&G Wish List 72 Literature 73 Events 80 Calendar 82 Advertisers
FEATURES
14 Christmas in Mississippi
HOME AND GARDEN
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TASTE AND TOAST
27 Candy Cane Indulgence 30 Ole County Holiday Treats 36 Where the Wind Blows 40 Meet the Student
HEALTH AND BEAUTY 56 Beauty Fix
LIFE AND STYLE 45 And for the Dogs... 50 Set, Lights, Action 59 Gift Guide 64 A Cup of Lindsay Jo 67 Ballerina Glitz
13 Holiday Inspiration 19 Holiday Wreaths 20 Powerful Poinsettias 22 It’s a Southern Thing 24 DIY with Amy Taylor
On the Cover
Lisa LaFontaine Bynum created candy cane treats for readers to indulge into! See all her tasty recipes on page 27. Photography by Lisa LaFontaine Bynum.
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DECEMBER 2013
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A PRODUCT OF HORIZON OF MISSISSIPPI P.O. Box 1068 | Starkville, MS 39760 www.townandgownmagazine.com
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STAFF
DON NORMAN | PUBLISHER - sdnpub@starkvilledailynews.com CLAIRE MASSEY | EDITOR - claire@townandgownmagazine.com
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ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE}
CHELSEA CURE - chelsea@ townandgownmagazine.com
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INTERNS
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BECCA HORTON SARAH CARPENTER LOREN GAMBRELL LINDSEY NORMAN CATHERINE STUKENBORG
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CONTRIBUTORS
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LISA LAFONTAINE BYNUM RUSSELL HAMILTON AMY TAYLOR CHRISTINE TIBBETT LINDSAY JO WILKINSON
WRITERS
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FORREST BLACKBOURN JOE LEE SUSAN O’BRYAN RICHELLE PUTNAM
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PHOTOGRAPHERS
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DIVIAN CONNER ASHLEY COVIN LAURA DANIELS
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STYLIST
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NATALIE PHILLIPS
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PAGE DESIGN
CLAIRE MASSEY
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ADVERTISING 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.
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For our Readers
Editor
Letter from the
Subscribe
“D
o you hear the sleigh bells ring ting tingling, see the snow falling and hear your friends calling Yoo-Hoo? Well, we might have not a Christmas involving those things all the time, but this year the Christmas holidays have come earlier than ever. If you know how a magazine works we work on Christmas before Halloween even starts, but I have noticed the ads for the holiday season are starting midOctober! Two that I noticed are KMart and Walmart for their layaway programs. I am all for layaway, but does this mean we have to rush into the holiday season. I am a person who likes to stick to the good-oledays and have one holiday at a time. One night for Halloween, even though this year most Halloween parties seemed to begin the weekend before, and one day for Thanksgiving, which has turned into a month-long thankful series on Facebook - which we should be thankful for what we have everyday of the year! As I get older the years seem to get shorter and shorter. Recently talking to an older friend of mine and she said that will not stop nor get any longer as you get older. But for me, this means making the most of each day and celebrating the holidays each day at a time. This Christmas I look forward to taking that time to spend with family and friends and enjoying what this season is all about! We did have to start on our Holiday issue early for a reason, but take time and enjoy this issue from cover to cover and see all the goodies we have gathered together just for you! We hope everyone has a wonderful Christmas and a safe and happy New Year! We cannot wait for the year 2014 to get here. Plans for our new year include a stunning January bridal issue and more stories that will grab you at the heart for our Love issue in February. Like our magazine? Write to us by mail (P.O. Box 1068, Starkville, Ms. 39760) or email us at info@townandgownmagazine.com. Happy Holidays,
Editor
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Weddings or Engagements January is our Bridal issue! Wedding and engagement announcement pricing is listed at townandgownmagazine. com. Submit 15-20 wedding photos to info@townandgownmagazine.com for review to be featured in Town and Gown Magazine.
Events
Town and Gown Magazine would love to be at your next event. If your organization or business is having an event please email info@townandgownmagazine.com a month before event date. We cannot promise we will be at all events, but we will try!
If we missed out
Send us your event photos with names from left to right (if available) and a brief description of event to info@ townandgownmagazine.com or mail or drop off a disc to 304 Lampkin St., Starkville, MS 39759.
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Claire Massey
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Previous Issues
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Starkville Cafe’ at its BEST! The holiday season is full of decorating, cheer, and of course, homemade goodies. If you’re looking for a place to take the in-laws or kids for lunch or dinner during the holidays, Starkville Café is the perfect place to go. Their homemade desserts are absolutely wonderful! From bread pudding, delectable cobblers and all the way to chocolatelayered cake, the Café has a dessert for everyone. Decide to eat local and go see the Starkville Café crew this holiday season!
Starkville Community Theatre is performing the perfect Christmas show to take your loved ones to. Join them. December 10th through the 14th and watch “A Christmas Cabaret.” It’s the perfect musical revue of classical and contemporary Christmas songs that everyone can enjoy. Be sure to mark this in your calendars, you don’t want to miss it!
Top 5 Christmas Movies A Christmas Story Everyone remembers Ralphie and his want for the popular Red Ryder B.B. gun. You can’t forget about the bunny outfit either. This is the perfect movie to watch with the whole family this holiday season. Miracle on 34th Street” Santa Claus means believing and in this movie, that’s exactly what Susan gets to do. Dreams come true for the
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six-year-old and Christmas is more exciting than years before. Snuggle up with a cup of hot cocoa and believe like you did when you were six while watching this movie. How the Grinch Stole Christmas Who doesn’t love Dr. Seuss’s famous Grinch? Don’t get too upset, the Grinch has a heartwarming surprise in the movie that can change all of those “Grinches” out there!
The Polar Express This is the perfect movie to watch with the kids. Believers of Santa Claus all
climb aboard a magical train going to the North Pole to experience the magic of Christmas. So get your favorite Christmas PJ’s on and climb aboard the train! The Santa Clause In the mood for a Christmas movie marathon? The Santa Clause series is perfect for you! Watch as a man transforms into Santa and does everything possible to keep Christmas alive.
Christmas in
By RIc helle Putnam
Mississippi Each year, Mississippi greets the holiday season in true Southern style and hospitality. Parades, fireworks, open house tours, and special performances in communities, large or small, lighten the hustle and bustle of frantic shoppers and brighten the season, creating joyful memories among family and friends. Mark your calendar for some of these upcoming events around the state.
R o y Mar tin Delt a Band F es tiv al and Gr een w ood Chr is tmas P ar ade Pho t og r aph y b y Gr een w ood Con v ention and V isit or s Bur eau
Christmas in the Delta – Celebrations flourish year round in the Delta, but the Holiday Season brings exceptional delight and cheer. After the tree lighting at the Olive Branch Courthouse, the public enjoys open house at historic Wesson House, a Mississippi Landmark. Follow the “I’ll have a Blue(s) Christmas” trail of parades marching through Cleveland, Greenville, Olive Branch, Southaven, Vicksburg, Yazoo City, Hernando, Clarksdale, Indianola, and Horn Lake. In addition, various family celebrations at theatre, choral productions and symphonies bring Christmas stories and songs to life on stage, like “A Delta Christmas Holiday” at the Bologna Performing Arts Center in Cleveland and HoliDelta in downtown Greenwood. While in Greenwood, join the 8th annual Buford Family Christmas at the Alluvian Hotel where Gwin Buford and daughters Lee, Pryor, Sarah and Donna from Glendora give the audience a memorable, magical holiday. Vicksburg’s Historic homes showcase their bright holiday decor. Don’t forget to check out the Holly Days Arts and Crafts Show at the Southern Cultural Heritage Foundation. See www.visitthedelta. com for more on Christmas in the Delta.
MSU Rile y Cent er in Do wnt o wn Mer idian Pho t og r aph y b y Ashle y Masse y
Christmas in the Pines – In Hattiesburg, the Winters School of Music students, faculty and staff perform a series of Noon-time concerts celebrating the Christmas Season. The USM Symphony Holiday Choral Spectacular proclaims the Giving Season as choirs from Southern Miss and the community and the Symphony Orchestra perform Yuletide classics. www.thepinebelt.com In Meridian, the 45th Annual Christmas Trees of Christmas, “Sapphire World,” illuminates Meridian’s historic homes, Merrehope and the F. W. Williams, taking visitors to Christmases around the world. The Temple Theatre for the Performing Arts presents A Charlie Brown Christmas, the perfect holiday outing for the entire family. www.visitmeridian.com
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Go v er n or ’s Man sion in Jac k son
Ph o t og r aph y b y K TB Spar kle Ph o t og r aph y
Christmas in the Golden Triangle – An old fashioned Main Street “Christmas in Who-Ville” parade with the Famous Maroon Band, MSU cheerleaders and an array of floats created by community businesses and organizations bring an unexpected guest the children (and adults ) will adore. Over 90 booths at the 4th Annual Holiday Bazaar starts off holiday shopping with hand-crafted items that provide a personal touch to every gift. The Wassail Fest and Tree Lighting in Columbus stir the holiday spirit with special activities, live music and door prizes.
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Christmas in the Hills – In Corinth, the Green Market, selected as a top fair or festival in Mississippi by the readers of Mississippi Magazine and as the 2009 Best Small Event by the Mississippi Tourism Association., sells all hand-made, home-grown, and home-baked items as live music entertains the crowds. Tupelo’s 65th Annual Parade welcomes the Anheuser-Busch Clydesdales for a nighttime parade and the production “It’s A Wonderful Life” at the Lyric Theatre. The Gaither Vocal Band brings Christmas to the Landers Center in Southaven featuring Bill Gaither, Mark Lowry, David Phelps, Michael English, Wes Hampton and more. In Oxford, the walking food and wine tasting event, Square Toast for Scholarships, spreads from restaurants to retail businesses on the Historic Oxford Square, transforming the Square into one enormous restaurant of assorted cuisines. www.mississippihills.org.
Christmas on the Gulf Coast – Hosting more than 300 annual festivals, concerts, fairs and special events throughout the year, Mississippi’s mild coastal climate is perfect for celebrating the Holiday Season outdoors. Bay St. Louis starts the December festivities with its annual Christmas Parade and Snowflakes in the Bay, where thousands of lighted snowflakes illuminate the trees and create a whimsical winter wonderland through the Depot District. Pass Christian hosts its 28th Christmas in the Pass with the lighting of the Christmas tree, a holiday parade and more. In downtown Pascagoula, enjoy live entertainment, arts and crafts and rides in a carriage and fire engine. Move on to Biloxi to watch the 28th Annual Christmas on the Water Boat Parade and the fireworks show afterward. Ocean Springs brings the Coast Big Band Holiday Show, a 25-piece big band orchestra performing swinging jazz sounds with horns, piano, and stringed instruments. Christmas in Beauvoir, awarded a Top Event by USA Newsblog 2012, lights the pathways with hundreds of lights, carolers, and a magical train that takes the children to meet Father Klaus. For more Mississippi Gulf Coast festivities, visit www.gulfcoast.org.
Gulf Coas t’s W at er Boat Bar ade
S t ar kville Tour of Home s l Pho t og r aph y b y Laur a Daniels
Christmas in and around the Capital City – Grab a few blankets and lawn chairs and head to the Belhaven campus for its annual Singing Christmas Tree held, a tradition since 1933. The annual Christmas Parade on the first Saturday in December lines the city streets before the tree lighting ceremony and musical entertainment at Jackson City Hall. Mickey and Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, and Goofy show up at the Jackson Coliseum to entertain children with wonderful classic fairy tales. For more holiday events in Jackson, visit Jackson Convention and Visitor Center: www.visitjackson.com. The Town of Madison ignites the season with Christmas on Ice. Canton’s Victorian Christmas Festival, a month long event, offers truck and train rides, light displays, animated museums and vintage cars. The Holiday Hustle 5k fills downtown Canton with runners, holiday music, Christmas lights, caroling and guitar quartets.
Holiday Inspiration
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The world of Lynette L. McDougald, M.S., AIFD, CFD has always been in bloom. She grew up in her uncle’s nursery and, as a high school student, managed the nursery during the week while he worked as a college professor. She earned her undergrad in Ornamental Horticulture and her Masters in Agricultural Education at MSU, has worked in retail and wholesale floral shops and bought for a supermarket chain. For sixteen years she has been an MSU instructor in Floral Management and is currently the business manager of The University Florist. The University Florist, MSU’s Floral Management (FM) program operated by faculty and students, is a teaching laboratory for MSU students in the FM concentration of Horticulture. The highly successful Student Chapter of the American Institute of Floral Designers (SAIFD) was first place Baccalaureate program winner at the American Institute of Floral Designers student competition. Lynette’s daughter, Beth McDougald, a recent graduate of FM program, was the first-place individual. Lynette graciously shares her expertise in floral arrangements and her “Inspirations” line of florals this Holiday Season.
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Inspiration: Bringing the Outside Indoors.
Lynette’s strength in floral design incorporates plants growing right outside her backdoor and on the roadsides of Mississippi into her lush floral designs. “This tree is My Tree," she said. When her children were small, Lynette filled their Christmas trees with ornaments and designs made by the kids or with their likes in mind. “Though I loved those trees, I loved their participation in making them special.” As a designer, Lynette sees the monochromatic designs or tortured techniques and thinks, One day, I'll have my tree. This is it! A pre-lit, faux tree serves as the background for an abundance of nature's bounty. The tree was first encircled with bittersweet, then dried hydrangea, cotton, and oak leaves filled the boughs. Placing standard ornaments deep into the tree provides shimmer. Fresh plant materials, including ivy, rosemary, nandina berries, and sasanqua blossoms and foliages placed in water tubes, were added to the tree. Special focals from the garden completed the composition; bell and cayenne peppers, basil and oregano, even strawberries, joined the celebration. Also serving as ornaments are McCarty’s Pottery owls.
Inspiration: Our faith
Religious customs are adapted into our home décor, such as the tradition of the Advent wreath, the lighting of a candle each Sunday prior to Christmas Day. The purple or dark blue candle is lit on the first, second, and fourth Sundays. On the third Sunday, which is Mary’s day, the pink candle is lit. Advent wreaths are not limited to houses of worship. Many families incorporate this tradition into their own home to heighten the anticipation and preparation of the birth of Christ.
Inspiration: Imagination with the Angel.
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Nature surrounding the angel at the chapel inspired this showpiece. She appears to have pushed into the landscape and pulled perfect examples of fauna into her arms. However, another person might envision a completely different story. Imagination fuels inspiration. Previous page.
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A Talk with Lynette T & G: How do flower arrangements enhance space and create ambiance in a room
Lynette: It seems as though something is missing if there aren’t florals in a space, especially when entertaining. Florals are conversation starters; literal centerpieces placed where people gather. They soften a space and may add fragrance and the aesthetic properties are priceless.
T & G: Fresh or faux? Do you have a preference? Lynette: There’s a time and place for everything. We use the term ‘permanent botanicals’ meaning fabrics are used to create the flowers, preserved flowers or foliages dried or preserved by glycerine or other processes. There are pods, cones and berries on the market; plastic materials are being used that create a quite realistic product.
T & G: How you decide which type flowers to use in an arrangement?
Lynette: Factors that dictate types of flowers to use in an arrangement are: the decor of the space, architectural attributes of the space, seasonality and availability. Also, considered are color and form.
T & G: How do you estimate the size of an arrangement? Lynette: Size refers to scale, so you have to evaluate the space – the size constraints or the abundance – and then take it from there.
T & G: What’s important to know about seasonal arrangements?
Lynette: Evergreens last a very long time, but require management. Add water and design in containers that have adequate water reservoirs. Always display and burn a candle in a glass cylinder or bowl to keep the flame away from floral materials. Use long lasting flowers such as chrysanthemums, carnations, and alstroemeria in floral designs. They can lay a nice ground work and can last two weeks if you use fresh flowers food and be sanitary. You can always add more exotic feature flowers for special events.
T & G: What is a good piece of floral arrangement advice for T & G readers?
Lynette: Don’t think you have to follow trends or fads. Decorate exactly how you wish! You may choose traditional; you may choose to use a color palette that matches your furnishings, that aren’t traditional at all. Don’t forget vintage and keepsakes! Work them into your decor and share their story. Memories are powerful and in this holiday season, there’s no better time to tell your story and share past memories with your family and friends. To Lynette, finding “Inspiration” for design work for home and entertaining is open to imagination and the materials at hand for the designer.
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Inspiration: Art
A garland of seeded eucalyptus and bay leaves serves as a roost for Mississippi State Univeristy’s First Lady Rhonda Keenum’s collection of Wolfe Birds and makes for a very unusual holiday color combination. The imposing oil painting is balanced with topiary forms swirled around fresh flower bricks. Art is a harmony parallel with nature – Paul Cezanne, French artist, post impressionist. “I have always been reminded of this quote whenever I admire artwork that I have acquired or that I am admiring,” said Rhonda Keenum. Lynette factors into any pieces for the President's home by first considering the guests, the time of the year, what florals are in season, and the tone of the event. She keeps the Cezanne quote at the top of her mind, explained Rhonda, and has complemented one of Rhonda’s favorite pieces by Russian Artist, Victor Razgulin, entitled "Family Portrait in Pereslavi," painted in 1998. 16
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Inspiration: Stately
At the MSU Chapel of Memories is a Magnolia background with rows of cotton, roses, and sedum: a very Mississippi collection. Iron works cowbells dangle by ribbon and cords of maroon.
Students assisting in these designs were: Mary Frances Bennett, Katie Carpenter, Kailie Dunlap, Genna Flowers, Rusty Gilmore, Madeline Hawes, Emily Howell, Jena Koren, Courtney Lewis, Callie Martin, Alayna Naro, Jessica Robinson, Molly Rushing, Kyle Tester, Renee Wright: Members of Sympathy Floral Design at MSU. december
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Nutcracker Suite By Ric helle Putnam l Pho t og r pha y b y Melanie Dobbs
T
he Academy of Competitive and Performing Arts (ACPA) in Starkville, Miss. presents the Nutcracker Suite on Saturday, December 14 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, December 15 at 2 p.m. in McComas Hall on campus at Mississippi State University. The performance consists of dancers from the ACPA Company, as well as ACPA Faculty and Dancers from the Terpsichore MSU Dance Theatre dancing lead roles. Director and Choreographer Dolan Shoemaker, who also plays Drosselmeyer, has danced professionally for about 25 years with Ballet Mississippi and several other companies all over the southeast. His dance career began in the early 80s at The W in Columbus and at Pittsburg Valley Theatre School in Pittsburg, Pa. “We have about 40 to 50 dancers on stage, with ages ranging from eight to 50,” he said. The lead roles are being performed by students from Mississippi State. ACPA business coordinator Ashley Cumberlance Maples said that her favorite aspect of performance will be finally enjoying all of the hard work. “After many practices, critiques, and possible injuries, it’s nice to be able to showcase the finished product you have been working towards,” she said. “There’s always a clear ‘it was worth it’ moment when a performance is well received by the audience.” Kimberly Madsen of MSU Terpsichore and a guest teacher at ACPA hopes viewers get the sense that though the dancing appears effortless, it is the result of hard work and dedication. She wants them to get caught up in the story and be transported out of themselves into something grander and more beautiful. “I love being able to show off the hard work and the gift that God has given me and performing something beautiful. It’s just a small way to feel that I’ve contributed somehow and used my gifts in an uplifting way,” she said. “Ballet dancers are artists and athletes.” What sports do for children, said Dolan, dance does the same thing. “It teaches discipline, working hard toward a goal, and achieving a goal.” The Nutcracker story begins on Christmas Eve after a party hosted by Councilor VonStahlbaum and his family. Their 18
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daughter, Clara, was given a Nutcracker by her Uncle and Godfather Herr Drosselmeyer. After the party has concluded and all family members have gone to bed, Clara sneaks downstairs to see her precious Nutcracker one last time. She falls asleep on the couch and has a magical dream in which she is attacked by the evil Mouse King and his army of mice. Her Nutcracker is brought to life by Drosselmeyer, and he and his Soldiers defend Clara. Just as it seems the Mouse King will prevail, Clara uses her shoe to hit the Mouse King on the head providing the distraction that the Nutcracker needs in order to kill the Mouse King and break his evil spell on the Kingdom of Sweets. The battle leaves the Nutcracker exhausted and Clara fears the worse. Drosselmeyer, once again, revives the Nutcracker, and with the evil spell of the Mouse King being broken, reveals that the Nutcracker is actually a handsome young Prince. And that’s only the beginning! The Waltz of the Flowers and the Sugar Plum Fairy stand out in the production, said Dolan. Still, one of the most spectacular aspects of The Nutcracker is that the cast is comprised mostly of children. “It takes so much courage and commitment for children to take on Nutcracker,” said Ashley. “I am always blown away by how well they perform.” Melanie Powe Dobbs, the Pro Shop Manager of the ACPA, and her seven year old, Ainsley, who is in the production, started Mom and Me dance classes when Ainsley was 18 months. “She literally danced before she walked,” said Melanie. Ainsley competes with the ACPA gymnastic team and dance team and trains about 25 hours a week. The production has unified so many different groups and generations of dance, explained Kimberly. “Dolan, a professional dancer, has used his experience, wisdom, and artistic sense to try to instill the new generation of dancers, the ACPA students, with a passion for ballet,” she said. “He’s invited the current generation of dancers, Terpsichore MSU Dance Theatre Company, to learn and perform, too.” Dolan admits that it’s an incredible adrenalin rush to be
on stage and have people enjoy what you’re doing. “Dance is a physical art,” he said, “something we do with our bodies to express. For me it’s a chance to step outside of myself and be someone else or something else during the time that you’re in character for the performance.” “We are thrilled to have Dolan come in and do this with our studio,” said Melanie. He is a phenomenal choreographer and dance teacher, she added. Plus, the students love him. “In addition to watching my own daughter, I’m looking forward to watching Dolan dance.” The Nutcracker has been performed since 1892, according to Kimberly, and is one of the few ballets with no set choreography. Therefore, artistic directors can tweak and influence the choreography in their own way so the audience sees a century old production become brand new. The story is dramatic because Clara is saved from the frightening rats attacking her and she is carried to a fantasy world filled with beautiful and benevolent characters. “Everyone loves her,” said Kimberly. “It’s a great love story; it’s a magical dream; and for me, it’s a hallmark of the Christmas season.” “In the midst of all the shopping, cooking, meltdowns and parties,” said Ashley, “The Nutcracker is a family friendly event that can ignite the child-like wonderment Christmas is all about.” Dancers in leading roles are: (below) Kimberly Madsen - Sugar Plum Fairy Murphy Judd - Snow Queen and Dew Drop Fairy Tanner Fant - Clara Dolan Shoemaker - Drosselmeyer, Director and Choreographer For more information about the Academy of Competitive and Performing Arts (ACPA) Nutcracker visit: sites.google. com/site/acpastarkvillems2012/.
Holiday Wreaths The Ruby Letter
Take a natural branch wreath form and secure permanent botanicals into the wreath with hot clue. After painting your large initial (found at any craft store), secure each side with small wire. Take burlap or ribbon and tie a bow. Take an extra 1/2 yard of burlap or ribbon and secure to wreath form. Attach bow to the middle of hanging burlap or ribbon.
Natural Holiday Take branches from yard that are equal in length depending on how wide and tall you want the wreath to be. Gather about five branches together and tie with hemp string and secure with hot glue - repeat on all sides. Take three Christmas balls (any color) and by using ribbon loop from the top of a level branch. Secure to ball with hot glue or by tying a knot through ball hanger.
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Powerful Poinsettias 20
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Russell Hamilton graduated from Mississippi State University with a major in horticulture and he has been the owner of Deep Roots Nursery for over 13 years.
oinsettias are the Christmas flower for sure. You will see them everywhere you turn this holiday season. So how do you set yours aside as something unique and noteworthy? It is easier than you think. Instead of just decorating with poinsettias this year, I challenge you to decorate your poinsettias! First let’s talk about how you keep your poinsettias looking good all season long. Poinsettias are very sensitive to cold temperatures. They are so sensitive that if the temperature is cold enough outside they can be damaged from the exposure of just toting them from the store to your car or from placing them in a window that gets too cold. To help avoid this try to buy poinsettias that have a clear plastic wrap on them. If you can’t do that just keep it in mind and try to get them into car as quickly as possible. Don’t place poinsettias directly in the paths of heater vents or in windows where they might come in contact with cold glass. Another way to keep them looking good all season is to never let them get to dry. You don’t want to water them three times per day, but you might want to check a few times a day just to make sure they don’t need it. Wait until the soil is dry to the touch on top to water. When you do water, water enough so that water runs out the bottom of the pot. Saucers come in handy here so that you don’t have to tote them in and out every time you water. Now to the fun part.
Cover Story The simplest way to spice up your poinsettias is with a good pot cover. You can usually find these at the store where you bought the poinsettias. If they don’t have one there, check your local florist. Pot wraps are easy and they do a great job of covering up those ugly green pots. They come in a huge variety of colors and sizes and there is sure to be one out there that compliments the décor of the room you are putting them in.
Gardening with
Russell Hamilton
glue. Very lightly sprinkle the glitter on the leaves of the poinsettias. There are a couple of tricks here. Use non-toxic glue so that it doesn’t immediately damage the plants. It doesn’t take as much as you think, so go light. The same applies to the glitter. It won’t take a lot and you don’t want to cover the entire leaf of the plant. If you do cover the leaves completely they will likely fall off before you want them to. This project you can do with the kids as well. Grab a few 4 inch poinsettias and the let the kids glitter theirs.
Dying for Color
Have you ever seen the oddly colored poinsettias that look nothing like the red, white, and pinks you normally see? Maybe the traditional colors don’t fit your decorating color scheme. Maybe what you are looking for is a neon green or bright orange or even dark blue poinsettia to fit your décor. Well, it is now a growing trend to produce these very cool poinsettias to the color of your liking. The process is more difficult than the two we already discussed. Buying these already colored is certainly an option. Basically what you do is dye the leaves of a white poinsettia to any color you want. Florists use non-toxic dyes and an ethanol based solvent that won’t harm the bracts (colored leaves) of the poinsettia. This can be a bit more tedious than the other projects but it’s perfect for the do-it-yourselfer looking for a challenge. Now that you have three ways to do something a little different with your poinsettias this year, pick one and run with it. Make it a group project with your friends or church group. That way you can share supplies and save even more money to buy me a better present this year! Merry Christmas to all those who partake in this great magazine each month!
Glamorous with Glitter You might have seen some of these in stores pre-done for you. You can definitely go that route to save some time. If you are like me and you would rather spend that money on Christmas presents, then you can do this little project yourself. You will need one garbage bag, one bottle of non-toxic spray on glue, and one container of your favorite glitter. Lay the garbage bag down to reduce any cleanup you might have. Lightly spray the leaves of the poinsettias with the non-toxic
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It’s a Southern Thing A Winter Weekend in the South's Golden Triangle
Sally Kate Winters Park
Huck’s Place
The weather turns cold. Kids start going crazy from being cooped up inside. Parents begin the process of hiding their crazy children's Christmas presents, and even the college students go home for the holidays and have not a thing to do for the first time in months. So the question is, what can you do to get out of the house and have a relaxing weekend away from the chaos and boredom? How about a road trip. In the month of December the Golden Triangle has a few events taking place plus plenty of shops and restaurants to visit. Stay in a local bed and breakfast for two nights and "Ta-Da!" a weekend not spent inside the walls of your own home, bored out of your mind, or stressed to your wits end. The Starkville Community Theater will have their performance of "A Christmas Cabaret" on the December 13th and 14th and would be a different way for anyone to enjoy the holiday season. A cushioned seat in the heated theater watching a live performance just sounds relaxing and enjoyable. In Columbus, you could stand outside in ear muffs, a heavy coat, and a scarf, holding a cup of hot coco in your hands while watching the Columbus Christmas Parade. It starts at 5:30 p.m. downtown on the 14th and would be a fun outdoor event with the cold weather adding to the experience of the holiday atmosphere. After all the fun and excitement of being away, home will be a welcoming site. Your own cozy bed. A home-cooked meal, and nothing more to do than watch TV or read a good book. Time spent away always helps one enjoy the comforts of home, so go spend a weekend on the road, exploring and enjoying new places that way you can come home and appreciate the holidays.
Old Venice
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By Lor en Gambr ell l Pho t og r aph y b y s t af f
The Plan:
Anthony’s Good Food Market
Friday Afternoon: Daily Historic Home Tours (Columbus) Dinner: Huck's Place (Columbus) Reside: A Painted Lady of Columbus Bed and Breakfast (Columbus)
Saturday Breakfast: Coffee House on 5th (Columbus) Morning: Antique Shopping: Annabelles Antique Mall, Mawmaw's Treasures, Wisteria, and more (West Point) Lunch: Old Time Grill (West Point) Afternoon: Old Waverly - Fore Seasons, Howlin' Wolf Museum, Waverly Plantation Mansion (West Point) Dinner: Anthony's (West Point) Reside: Magnolia Manor (Starkville)
Coffee House on 5th
Sunday Brunch: The Veranda (Starkville) Morning: Arts Walk (Starkville) Lunch: Old Venice (Starkville) Afternoon: Noxubee Refuge (Starkville)
Tennessee Williams Welcome Center
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HOME AND GARDEN
DIY with Amy Taylor
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 Exten sion Education from Mississippi State University. She is an avid do-it-yourself crafter, artist and has a passion for home design and projects.
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Vintage Paper
Ornaments Add your own personal style to your Christmas tree this year! There are various ways to make this project unique by adding your choice of ribbon, yarn, string, lace and other details. Additionally, they blend well with almost any ornaments you may already have!
Materials: Plastic ornaments (the color doesn’t matter) Craft or standard glue (also having a hot glue gun is handy) Clear or iridescent glitter Scissors Old newspaper or pages from old books – if you use a book, make sure it’s not a treasured or valuable piece of literature.
Directions: 1. Cut pieces big enough to cover the ornament. If the paper is stiff, you might want to crumple it just a little. Thin the glue with water and brush it onto the paper. Do not saturate. The paper might tear if it’s too wet. Smooth the paper on the ornament. You may have to cut a few different strips to cover the ornament. Let dry. A hot glue gun is handy for securing loose corners. 2. Add ribbon, twine, bows, lace and other details of your choice! *Additional Tips: - To give the paper a brown “vintage” look, dab the paper with a wet tea bag. Again, don’t saturate. - If there are certain words you want on the ornament (such as “faith, believe, hope, holidays,” etc), print out the words on standard paper, use the tea bag treatment and follow the above steps to make your ornaments. - Spraying a clear sealing gloss will help preserve the ornament. december
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Candy Cane Indulgence
For the peppermint cheesecake: 2 packages (8 oz. each) cream cheese, softened 2/3 cup granulated sugar pinch of salt 2 eggs 1/4 cup sour cream 1/3 cup heavy cream 1/2 tsp. peppermint extract 3 oz. peppermint bark, coarsely chopped
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TASTE AND TOAST By Lisa LaFont aine Bynum
Chocolate and Peppermint Cheesecake Cupcakes
For the chocolate cupcakes: 2 cups all-purpose flour 1 1/4 tsp. baking soda 1 tsp. salt 1/4 tsp. baking powder 1 cup hot water 2/3 cup unsweetened baking cocoa 3/4 cup shortening 1 1/2 cups sugar 2 eggs 1 tsp. vanilla
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For the frosting: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened 5 cups powdered sugar 1/2 cup heavy cream 1/4 tsp. peppermint extract 4-6 candy canes, crushed Continued december
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Lisa LaFontaine Bynum 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.
To make the peppermint cheesecake: Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Grease a 9-inch square baking pan (or use a nonstick pan). Beat cream cheese and granulated sugar for 2-3 minutes until creamy. Add the salt and eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in sour cream, heavy cream and peppermint extract. Fold in peppermint bark. Pour batter into prepared dish. Bake cheesecake for about 40 minutes, until the cheesecake has started to brown on the edges and the center no longer jiggles when you gently shake the pan. Allow the cheesecake to cool in the pan on a wire rack for 30 minutes. Then cover pan and move to the refrigerator to cool overnight. Cut cheesecake into 24-bite sized squares.
3 tsp. meringue powder 1/2 cup sugar 1/4 cup water 1/2 tsp. peppermint extract 4-6 candy canes, crushed
For the cupcakes: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease 24 regular-size muffin cups or line with cupcake liners. In a medium mixing bowl, sift together flour, baking soda, salt and baking powder. In a separate bowl, combine hot water and cocoa until cocoa dissolves. Beat shortening with electric mixer on medium speed 30 seconds. Gradually add the sugar, about 1/4 cup at a time, beating well after each addition and scraping bowl occasionally. Beat two minutes longer. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Add vanilla. Turn the mixer on low and add one-third of the flour mixture, followed by half of the cocoa mixture. Beat until just blended. Repeat, ending with the flour mixture. Spoon about two tablespoons of cupcake batter into the bottom of each muffin cup. Place a cheesecake square into the center of the batter-filled cups, gently pressing into the batter. Spoon about 2-3 more tablespoons over the top of each cheesecake square so the top and the sides are covered. Bake cupcakes for 22 to 24 minutes, or until the edges of the cupcakes are set and the centers spring back when you gently press your finger into the top of it. Allow the cupcakes to cool in the tins for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to finish cooling. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before frosting.
Preheat oven to 250 degrees. Beat meringue powder, 1/4 cup of sugar, and the water on high for five minutes. With the mixer running, gradually add the remaining 1/4 cup of sugar and the peppermint extract. Beat on high for an additional 3-5 minutes until the meringue is shiny and stiff. Pipe mixture into 1 1/2-inch rounds on a foil-lined baking sheet, or spoon the batter by the tablespoonfuls. Sprinkle crushed candy canes over the top of each cookies. Bake for 50 minutes, until the cookies are crisp and begin to crack. Turn off the oven allow cookies to cool in the oven for one hour. Store cookies in an airtight container. Makes approximately 24 cookies.
For the frosting: Beat butter for approximately three minutes until fluffy. Add powdered sugar, heavy cream, and peppermint extract. Beat on low until sugar is combined, then increase speed to medium and beat an additional 3-5 minutes until fluffy. Pipe or spread frosting over each cupcake. Garnish with crushed candy canes if desired. Makes 24 cupcakes.
Peppermint Meringue Cookies
These cookies will melt in your mouth, but it’s best to plan on making them on a day when you know it won’t rain. Humidity will affect their texture. Meringue powder can be found at any baking supply shop and most craft stores.
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Simple Syrup: 1 1/2 cups water 3/4 cup dark brown sugar 1 candy cane, broken into pieces 2 Tbsp. molasses 1 inch fresh gingerroot, thinly sliced (or 1 Tbsp. ground ginger) 1 (3-inch) cinnamon stick 8 whole cloves 1/2 tsp. allspice 1/2 tsp. ground nutmeg Latte: 8 oz. strong brewed coffee 1 cup milk Gingerbread candy cane simple syrup, to taste Whipped cream and crushed candy canes, optional
For the simple syrup: Combine all ingredients in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium high heat. Reduce heat to medium low and simmer for 20 minutes or at least until the candy is melted. Strain liquid, discarding any solids. For the latte: In a small saucepan, heat milk just until heated through. Froth milk with a frother or pour milk into blender. Vent the lid and frappe just until foamy. Pour coffee into two mugs. Stir 1/2 cup milk into each mug. Add simple syrup to each mug to taste.
Gingerbread Candy Cane Latte
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By Becca Hor t on Pho t og r aph y b y Divian Conner
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Take E
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Amish Friendship Nut Bread
very experience comes with certain rites of passage. Every city comes with an unspoken bucket list, and it can be said that any member of Golden Triangle’s list isn’t complete without the short drive to Ole Country Bakery in Brooksville, Miss. This incredible establishment on Highway 45 Alternate is something to see even if your stomach doesn’t quite have the hungry grumbles. The careful hands of the delightful bakers bring you some of Mississippi’s best baked goods. One of the first things you will notice about the place is that the employees and patrons are a comforting sign of true Southern hospitality. One of the most notable things about the bakery is the quote on the wall that reads “The South: the place where…everything is darlin’.” When it comes to Ole Country Bakery, that statement certainly rings true. The many framed, black and white photos that hang on its walls give the bakery the feel of familiarity, family and comfort. Order something great and have a seat. december
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Tasty Ole Country Bakery’s freshly baked breads, large assortment of pies, delectable brownies and impressive cakes are as lovely as they appear when you enter and eagerly glance behind the counter. The bakery offers a wide variety of birthday cake options for anyone’s special day as well as some homemade cakes for any occasion. Oh, and their doughnuts and sandwiches are worth a mention too. The holidays seemingly aren’t complete without these delicious treats and the sight of them being made by the Mennonite bakers right in front of your eyes.
Pluckett Bread
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All treats by Ole County Bakery in Brooksville, Miss.
Strawberry-filled Dountus
A pocke
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The cute deli portion of the establishment offers a wide variety of sandwiches and salads plus any of the extra “fixings” (toppings) your stomach could possibly desire. The sandwiches are notably delicious and the bread that comes on the top and bottom is surely what makes them so special. The rows of cookies and pastries and doughnuts that reside behind a glass box will make your mouth water, and Ole Country’s famous cinnamon rolls will certainly make your stomach speak. The shelves of breads and pies and homemade honey that are visible as soon as you walk in the door will make you never want to leave.
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Cinnamon Raisin Bread & Cinnamon Rolls with Nuts So, the next time you have an inkling that your stomach is craving some amazing baked goods that are only a drive away, hop in that car and hit the 45. When you see that pretty blue sign that reads “Ole Country Bakery, Brooksville, MS� and you turn to park in front of the old-fashioned establishment, walk inside and tell them we sent you. Order some or all of the of the tasty items previously mentioned, walk back outside and sit in one of the old rocking chairs that resides on their porch. Remember, the only thing better and more Southern than eating something that tastes like happiness is eating it in a rocking chair.
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Swee
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WHERE THE WIND BLOWS By For r es t Blac kbour n Pho t og r aph y b y Lindse y Nor man
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, Deep South Magazine, and Divergencias: Revista de estudios lingĂźĂsticos y literarios.
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City Bagel Café: Pasta, Sandwiches, Salads, and Shoes
Note: Shoes Aren’t for Sale
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henever someone asks me about Starkville, Miss., I always seem to mention City Bagel Café. It is one of those truly unique places that not many towns have the privilege of experiencing. Starkville has many things that are wonderful and unparalleled to other towns, but amidst conversations with people who are unfamiliar with Starkville, City Bagel is often one of the first things that comes to mind. I can’t even begin to calculate how many papers I wrote at City Bagel while studying at Mississippi State University. The unlimited Silver Canyon dark roast coffee out of Boulder, Colo. and the warm, natural light always seemed to make the words appear on the page. Also, a bacon, egg, and provolone sandwich on focaccia or an asiago cheese bagel was often my early-morning reward after having pulled an all-nighter. Every week, I can pretty much count on a phone call from my mom asking me if I want to have lunch with her at City Bagel. In fact, we often make plans to have lunch without even mentioning where we are planning on meeting. We both just know. City Bagel Café was opened in Aug. of 1996, and over the last seventeen years, it has evolved into an establishment celebrated by many who reside in Starkville. “We wanted a restaurant that was conducive to having a family and having a good life,” said Mary Tkach in regard to her and her husband Joe’s decision to open City Bagel. She added that “it
has evolved into something that we didn’t expect.” In the five years and counting of my life in this great, small, college town, I still find City Bagel Café to be one of the few places that I truly associate with home. After a few years elsewhere and after having had the opportunity to come back to Starkville, I realized that despite hearing great things about the pastas that it serves on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday nights, I had never actually been there at one of those times to explore this distinct part of the menu and experience. Not long after I moved back to town, I went to City Bagel on a Thursday night for the first time. I went the next week and have been several times since. I became addicted to the baked penne pasta with meatballs and a marinara sauce, which is just one of the many excellent pasta dishes on the menu. Mary stated that the restaurant originally opened as a bakery, deli, and bagel place. However, since she and Joe had a big oven, a friend of theirs suggested that they consider serving pizzas. It was through this suggestion and a great deal of hard work that the pasta night has become enjoyable by so many in the Starkville area. Wine is brown-bagged, and beer is sold. Also, for those of you who have resided in Starkville for even a marginal period of time, it is a challenge to walk into City Bagel without running into someone that you know or that knows someone with whom you are connected in one way or another.
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City Bagel Top Choices: Pasta Night: Shrimp and Grits Baked Penne with Meatballs Fettuccini Alfredo Cajun Spaghettini Eggplant Parmesan
Throughout the Day: Muffuletta Club Sandwich Chicken Salad Sandwich Southwest Chicken Wrap Hummus Garden Burger
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Mrs. Tkach told me a story about a time in her career when she accepted a managerial position at a restaurant. She respectfully said to the outgoing manager, “I just don’t know how I’m going to fill your shoes.” The manager graciously replied, “Just get in them. They’ll fill up on their own.” This example mirrors the leap that is always required when starting something new. It is a very small task, but it requires a great deal of courage and can usually make the difference between the grass being greener on this side or the other. This story serves as an inspiration to me, and I would imagine that it does the same for others. Sometimes getting in the shoes is the only thing stopping us from bridging the gap between vision and fruition. It was in this spirit that Joe and Mary Tkach opened City Bagel years ago, and the multiple pairs of shoes have filled themselves over and over again, and they continue to do so.
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Meet the Student... Michael Hogan By Becca Hor t on Pho t og r aph y b y Divian Conner
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student sits at the desk in his office on a Thursday afternoon wearing a plaid suit jacket, yellow collared shirt, ironed dress pants and a Mississippi State pin (seemingly) purposefully placed directly above his heart. This clothing screams school-spirited, easygoing and professional. This office screams dedicated, cool and dependable. The desk and outfit belong to Michael Hogan, 22, from Memphis, Tenn. He is a Mississippi State student involved in the unique process of planning events on campus, being the middleman between students and the university, and leading a group of individuals that handle a multitude of responsibilities on campus. His official title is the Student Association President at Mississippi State University. This job title means that he represents the student body at all MSU functions, programs, initiatives and administrative meetings. He is often the top choice for the many committees on campus when they need a student representative, and a huge part of his job is helping students voice their questions or concerns to those committees or departments. Before Hogan was officially elected as SA president the spring semester of 2013, he ran his campaign on several platforms. He keeps a laminated campaign card listing these platforms on his desk as an every day reminder of the promises he made. Every platform has now been addressed, though a couple were proved unfeasible and shut down quickly. “All of my predecessors, all of my advisors said, ‘You’re not going to be able to do everything,’ and I never take that. You never take that answer. I like to look through and make sure that I am at least working on these things,” he said. Although he is now SA President, he remains a senior Business Management student, the recentlyelected Mr. MSU, a friend to many, and “a human.” Hogan has already managed to complete several of
Celebrate your wedding with Town and Gown! Announcements available monthly. Visit townandgownmagazine.com for more information or call 662-323-1642.
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Q & A with SA President Michael Hogan
his platforms in the first half of his term. Under his purview, the Student Association has improved relations with the health center, created an open-door policy that allows students to visit during their office hours, restructured the Big Event Service Project, connected freshmen with a First Year Mentorship Program and is attempting to revive the use of the amphitheater (though it may not be in the way one would expect). Also, phone charging stations on campus are “coming your way.” Hogan got his first taste of leadership from experiences he had when growing up in Memphis. He quickly grew to understand that he wasn’t necessarily athletic or the class-clown type,
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What is your favorite place on campus? My favorite place on campus is a tie between Left Field Lounge and the new track around Chadwick Lake. Where do you think MSU will be in five years? People graduating this year will have trouble recognizing MSU in five years with all of our positive growth on campus. I also believe we are well on our way to reaching Dr. Keenum’s goal of over 22,000 students in the next few years. If you had some brief advice for younger students, what would it be? Get involved now! Find a passion you have for this campus and run with it. What is your favorite place off campus? My favorite place off campus is not really a particular location. I love driving around random streets because I always find something new I’ve never seen in Starkville before. Where do you go to relax? I take a lot of walks when I can – with no particular destination or location. I just get my mind off everything for a bit. Follow Michael Hogan on Twitter @MSU_SApres!
but was always interested in doing things that were somewhat different. After winning Student Body President at St. Louis Catholic middle school, he decided that he had truly found what he was good at – people and student involvement – and remained confident enough in his actions to pursue it. While attending St. Benedict at Auburndale (SBA) Catholic high school, he was similarly elected Student Government President and Mr. SBA. It was experiences like these that taught Hogan that act of balance between the social and professional parts of his life. “I learned that working really hard and having a really good time is great, but you have to relate to people – you have to have friendships and relationships.” He continues, “Being able to learn that as a 17-year-old kid and going through college knowing that already, I feel like I was at an advantage.” Despite the valuable lessons he learned from his school days with student government, Hogan explains that college leadership is very different – outside of the fact that he now has his own office and a gorgeous nameplate on his desk that reads, “Michael Hogan: President.” He plans on keeping that thing forever, he said. Whereas in high school he was the representative for 1,000 students, he now resides over 20,000 students at MSU. However, he explains that great opportunities lie in this new leadership and says that “you can really move, you can really do things, and you can really start some stuff.” At St. Benedict, Hogan truly learned what he was good at and what he liked to do, but this new college experience came with a quicker learning curve. “In college, you have to know it and if you don’t know it, you find out quick,” he said. “High school was an incredible experience that I cherish, but this is a working, real life experience.” An experience that will certainly come in handy when applied to his future in business management.
Hog ans Expo boar d o n his of f ice door wit h a dr a wing fr om an MSU e x ecutiv e member.
Despite his major student involvement record at MSU to date, Hogan had at first thought that college student government might not be for him. After unsuccessful attempts to win leadership positions in his fraternity, Phi Delta Theta, and his lack of positions on the freshman council or committees, he was “stifled really quickly at Mississippi State.” Then, when Hogan was selected as an MSU Roadrunner, he reconsidered. “There are those moments where you kind of blind over,” he said, “and you’re just so excited like, ‘Okay. Maybe I’m supposed to be here.’” He fondly remembers finding out about his Roadrunner accomplishment on the steps of Montgomery Hall and calling his mom to share his ecstatic excitement. Hogan served as a Roadrunner and continued up the chain, doing what he could do and moving on. After a position assisting on his friend Shelby Balius’s campaign for SA President in the 2012-2013 term, he was asked to be the Chief Programming Officer on the SA executive council. This was another moment that proved to Hogan that he was meant to be a student leader at MSU. “I thought I could die happy because I was like, I’m one of nine students that leads the student government,” said Hogan, “that’s what I get to do now. I was such the nerd in high school that loved that and so I was like, ‘I’m not done doing this.’” He’s been hooked on the Student Association ever since. When it comes to inspirations and support systems in his life and student leadership career, Michael Hogan makes sure to mention his mom and his friends. He also says that although people on the outside might not understand, the MSU executive council is “legitimately nine best friends.” But perhaps the two most unexpected inspirations in his life are two workers in the Colvard Student Union, Reverend Poole and Ms. Brownlee, who make sure to stop
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by his office to check on him and ask how he is doing when he is busy working late. Some incredible experiences have come about for Hogan that would not have come about otherwise, including an unexpected trip to Omaha when Mississippi State’s baseball team made it to the championships last semester. What started out as a joking request to attend the game turned into a purchased plane ticket and hotel room with the Diamond Dawgs. Another great opportunity occurred when Hogan was able to meet and escort Condoleeza Rice around MSU. He has also enjoyed the pleasure of meeting many of the performers that have come to campus for Bulldog Bash, such as the Black Crowes and Chris Young, Andy Grammer and the Eli Young Band. He mentions that he very much enjoys having the kind of friendly but professional relationship he has with President Keenum and Dr. Kibler. Perhaps the biggest thing that has come out of his student presidency is a mental advantage – he has figured out how to manage both people and time, which will surely come into play during his future career. He believes he has truly learned how to successfully work with people of all kinds. “There are so many people that walk in and out of my door, and if you can relate with everyone that you speak with and everyone that you have to work with, you’re successful in my eyes. Hopefully if you’re successful you’re making money and have a good family, whatever it is. But if you can relate,” he says, “and just be nice to everyone that walks in no matter what kind of day you’re having, I’ve learned that is so important.” He also explains that people are always wondering what the Student Association President is doing, but not what Michael Hogan is doing. Although the two are the same person, they are very different, he said. He still attends classes, has homework and takes tests. He just has a few more responsibilities a typical student is not faced with. Outside of Student Association, Hogan has been involved in Phi Delta Theta and has worked on communications for the Interfraternity Council. He has also been a Roadrunner, Orientation Leader and a Student Worker/Ambassador at the Career Center. The latter gave him valuable knowledge about resumés and what hiring businesses are looking for from their future employees. Outside of school, however, he enjoys playing tennis – when he gets the chance – and attending St. Joseph’s Catholic Church. He additionally appreciates the few moments of alone time he tries to achieve each day, and says those moments keep him going. After graduation next May in 2014, Hogan has a lot of options and a few interviews already lined up. With a future Business Management degree and all of his impressive leadership experience under his belt, he hopes to get involved somehow – preferably with fundraising and promoting events – in the non-profit hospital sector. He also sees that “Mississippi has an incredible potential for growth,” and would love to possibly stick around in the state. Michael Hogan may not be your typical student, but he’s absolutely a student to look up to on the Mississippi State University campus. His positive attitude, friendly personality, and inspirational leadership are characteristics that any student should aspire to attain. 44
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And for the Dogs ... By Becca Hor t on l Pho t og r aph y b y s t af f
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ven dogs have heard the phrase "Dogs are a man's best friend." The statement has become more than just that - it has become a universal truth for many of us in regards to our furry pets. Dogs are companions, our sleeping partners, our exercise motivators. They are seemingly that one positive force in our lives that just makes us want to keep going and be happier. Dogs are more than just animals and accessories in this day and age, and they know that. We show them our love and senses of humor when we dress them up for Halloween or cast them as the ring bearer for our wedding. There is no limit to things we can do to dress our dogs up - there are jewelry, costumes, outfits and more. Now that dogs are becoming more central parts of our lives, many of us dress them as such. Even if you don't dress your dog up in fabric from the local dog fashion store or put them in a uniform saluting your favorite sports team, there are so many other options to spoil your favorite furry friend.
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Treaty Oats 2 cups whole wheat flour (you can use another types of flour if your dog is sensitive to wheat) 1 cup rolled oats 1/3 cup peanut butter, chunky or smooth 1 1/4 cups hot water Additional flour for rolling Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix dry ingredients together. Mix in the peanut butter and hot water. You may need to add more flour if the dough is too sticky. Knead the dough well. Roll out the dough into 1/4" thickness and cut into shapes with dog cookie cutters. Note - This recipe doesn't call for it, but you can put an egg wash (one egg whisked with a fork and then brushed on with a pastry brush) on the treats before you baked them. It gives them a nice sheen once they're baked. Here's how they look before baking. Bake on a lightly greased cookie sheet for 40 minutes. Turn off the oven and let them cool overnight. If you and your dog can't wait that long, cool them completely on a wire rack before serving. Instead of cutting out more shapes with the left over peanut butter and oatmeal dough, roll it into balls and then mash down flat. Storing: This peanut butter dog biscuit recipe makes biscuits that will last in a sealed air tight container at room temperature for one week. You can store them in the refrigerator for three weeks and in the freezer for up to six months.
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Cute Cookie Cutters (Available at Walmart)
Homemade Collar Take any Holiday ribbon with or without wire and add a couple of jingle bells by sliding ribbon through the top of bell for a homemade collar for Christmas cards!
No-Sew Doggie Stockings
Materials: 1 yard of natural burlap 1 yard of light burlap 8-10 jingle bells yarn pins scissors large needle Instructions: 1. Fold natural burlap in half. Take an old stocking and trace around the edge with a pen onto natural burlap. Pin inside edges of drawn area and then cut on pen edges. 2. Measure around the edge of stocking and cut amount of yarn to measurements. Take needle and thread yarn, adding a knot at the end of yarn. Start weaving in and out down one side of stocking until at the other top side of stocking. Tie a knot when stitching is finished. Make sure not to sew top of stocking. 3. Measure around the top of stocking including front and back. Double the light burlap and cut length to measurements and cut width about 3-4 inches. Pin to the top stocking and stitch around the top of stocking – not sewing together the top of stocking. 4. Take another piece of yarn and needle and stitch just as you have, but adding a jingle bell each time your yarn is on the outside of stitch. Add a loop with yarn to the top back side of stocking to hang.
Dog lovers
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1. DWK Corporation welcome bulldog, $34.95 - Designers’ Gallery; 662-324-3224. 2. Ganz woof frame, $17.99 - Merle Norman and Luna Bella; 662-323-5255. 3. “You make me so dog-gone happy.” painting, $599 Sprout Home Garden Baby; 662-338-1144. 4. Mudpie crochet pet hat, $17 - Purple Elephant; 662-324-4008. 5. Raz Imports Inc. bone ornament, $5.99 - Merle Norman and Luna Bella. 6. Beaucoup Designs bracelet, $13.50-54 - Giggleswick; 662-323-4438. 7. White Wing frame, $39 - Sprout Home Garden Baby. 8. Mariposa napkin holder, $48 - Thyme; 662-323-5979. 9. Wine bottle stopper, $26 - Thyme.
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Mississippi S t at e U niv er sity Depar tment of Communications Theatr e’s main s t ag e including a handmade sun fr om scr ap w ood f or t heir ne xt pr oduction.
Set Lights Action By Joe Lee l Pho t og r aph y b y Laur a Daniels
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ure, the competition is pretty fierce if you’re a theatre major in college and looking to win an Academy Award someday. But MSU students, in addition to having a wealth of veteran instructors to teach and guide them, can also get involved with the Starkville Community Theatre. There’s plenty of sharing of the actors and resources between the entities, which isn’t always the case when a strong university theatre department and a top-notch local performance group are just around the corner from each other. In the end, though, students interested in theatre have many options to choose from when it comes to career paths. “I can sit in the classrooms and tell students how to act and direct,” said MSU theatre instructor Donna Clevinger. “But you need to experience it. You have to be able to read and understand plays. Not every director has been a performer; not every performer wants to direct. “You have your technical side of theatre, the sets and makeup. There’s the performance side, the acting and directing. You have theatre management – the box office – and you have the literary side, or the reading of plays. You have a variety of sub-areas that students might study while in college.” Wayne and Jo Durst, whose names have been associated with the MSU Department of Communication for years, came to Starkville in 1978 when Wayne was hired as a technical director. He retired last year as an Associate Professor Emeritus. “I had to learn how to draft in a computer,” he said. “You don’t have to bend over a drafting table, which is huge change; being able to sit in front of a computer with a keyboard and a mouse makes it a whole lot easier and faster. The computer-operated lighting systems open a world of opportunities you didn’t have to the point that it’s almost overwhelming. “People are not kidding around when they say that technology explodes exponentially– learning digitized sound effects was not easy for me. I’m incredibly impressed with the scope of the tools available. You can order tickets to an MSU production online; you can print them and bring them to the door. Tracking the audience to see what plays they attend was just starting when I retired last year. And there’s Adobe Photoshop for posters and promotion.”
Dr ess f or ms at MSU Depar tment of Communications Theatr e’s bac k s t ag e w or k r oom. S t ar kville Community Theatr e’s se t f or t he pla y “A Cat er ed Af f air”.
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MARY ELEANOR ANDERSON SCHOLARSHIP FUND Retired MSU professor Robert Anderson and his wife, Mary Eleanor, taught in the Department of Communication from 1967-1993. They were among a handful of charter members of the Starkville Community Theatre, which began in 1978. “We had 50-60 season ticket holders that year,” Anderson said. “We’re up to 620 now.” Anderson, whose favorite play to watch or direct is The Glass Menagerie, directed the very first SCT performance, “6 Rms Riv Vu”. He has been involved in every aspect of SCT performances over the years and still serves as the organization’s box office manager and treasurer. When Mary Eleanor passed away a few years ago, SCT swiftly took steps to honor her with the Mary Eleanor Anderson Scholarship Fund. “It’s for aspiring Starkville-area students who have an interest in theatre,” Anderson said. “It has grown to the point that in the last three years, we’ve been able to give out three scholarships worth $1,000 per student.”
Edit or ’s No t e: Dr. R ober t Ander son passed a w a y on Satur da y, No v ember 9, 20 1 3. To learn more, contact the Starkville Community Theatre at 662-323-6855. Bac k s t ag e of t he SCT.
MSU Depar tment of Communications Theatr e’s bac k s t ag e w or k r oom.
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UPCOMING STARKVILLE COMMUNITY THEATre PERFORMANCES December 10-14 A Christmas Cabaret February 13-16 / February 18-22 Steel Magnolias April 24-27 / April 29 – May 3 Don’t Dress for Dinner Watch all performances at The Playhouse on Main – 108 East Main Street. Visit www.sct-online.org, or call 662-323-6855 for tickets or to purchase sponsorships Ask about contributing to the Mary Eleanor Anderson Scholarship Fund! “The SCT gives you an adult perspective in working with actors, and maturity the students don’t always have,” said Jo Durst, who will retire at the end of the school year. “The college students bring you a lot of vitality and a lot of naivete, so there’s a difference in approach to acting and directing. A lot of the MSU students have gone on to act in SCT performances.” Former Starkville Daily News editor Pattye Archer directs SCT plays and thinks of the group as a second family. “I love the creative process,” she said. “Creativity drives me and fulfills me, so working on a show is not just fun, it is really rewarding. I love the challenge I get from directing, from casting the right people in the right roles to figuring out the set, the blocking – all of it. “I think the most challenging part is trying to get new people involved. To find new volunteers who want to start out by helping paint a set, hand out programs, or bring a
UPCOMING THEATRE MSU PERFORMANCES February 27 – March 1 And…The Rain Came to Mayfield April 24-26 The Pirates of Penzance Watch all performances in the McComas Theater at MSU. Visit www.comm.msstate.edu/theatre, or call 662-325-3203 for tickets or to purchase sponsorships. Be a part of our milestone 50th season!
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SCT pos t er s fr om t heir r ecent pr oduction, “A Cat er ed Af f air�.
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dessert to a party. New people are what keep SCT fresh and thriving.” Though Wayne Durst said that the jobs are in the design and technical fields, he won’t rule out career success on stage or in front of the camera. “Just recently, Will Cooper, one of our students 3-4 years ago, showed up in a Wendy’s commercial and in an Xbox commercial,” he said. “Melissa Fenwick is is involved in regional theatre in Seattle, Wash. Melissa Sparks stage-managed the shows on Princess Cruise Lines for several years. “The competition for actors is very stiff, and you don’t see a lot of them in movies and on TV. A lot are in regional theater in places like Denver, Seattle, and at the Arkansas Repertory Theatre. It isn’t national exposure, but they have significant reputations.” There’s one crucial element that sets Theatre MSU apart from many other university programs. “They are open to anyone,” Jo Durst said. “Any MSU student can try out for any production – they do not have to be a Communication major, or have an emphasis in theatre. As a result, we have not only kids who are making a living in theatre, we have doctors, lawyers, veterinarians, and even a casino accountant who all acted or worked backstage in our programs.”
R opes and le v er s t o f l y in (br ing t o t he s t ag e) dif f er ent cur t ains and se t pieces on t he main s t ag e of t he MSU Depar tment of Communication Theatr e.
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HEALTH AND BEAUTY
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Beauty Fix 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.
1. Pink Pewter Venus Headband, $42 - L.A. Green Boutique 2. Stroke of Midnight Gold Eye Kit by MAC, $39.50 - Department Stores. 3. Deco Daze Faux Lashes, $3 Sephora.com. 4. Diorific Golden Winter 3D Jewel Manicure Duo, $39 - Macys. 5. Lipstick in Amour, $15 - Merle Norman. 6. Michael Kors Liquid Shimmer Dry Oil Spray, $60 - Macy’s.
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Crisp air, warm mittens, joyous décor, family gatherings, holiday parties, and the promise of a brand new year make December my favorite month. There are so many reasons to celebrate and spend time with our loved ones, which equals and abundance of opportunities to get all dolled up. This month I am sharing some of my favorites that will be sure to bring a new level of glitz and glam to your beauty routine.
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Get a head start on your New Year’s resolution to be more organized with this fun project. These makeup brush holders will add glamour to your bathroom counter and make finding the perfect makeup brush a snap. You will need: Empty glass containers Vase filler of your choice Modge Podge Glitter Paint Brush Instructions: Pour some Modge Podge into your glass container and spread around with a brush, coating the entire interior. Pour in some glitter and roll around until it is completely coated. Let it dry over night and then fill with vase filler to hold your brushes in place.
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Tip: Make one for your blush brushes and another for your eye shadow brushes noVember
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By Cat her ine S tuk enbor g
Giftde For the Techies Gui 13 20
1. Navajo Chief Blanket Mouserug $17, - Sullivan’s Office Supply; 662-323-5222. 2. Hobo The Original iPad covers, $88 - Purple Elephant; 662-324-2889. 3. Echo ombre tech gloves, $32 - L.A. Green Boutique; 662-324-6280.
4. Warm. Cool. Smart. smart screen gloves , $15 Purple Elephant; 662-324-2889. 5. Texas Instruments graphing calculator, $139 - Sullivan’s Office Supply; 662-323-5222. 6. Handbag Mighty Bulter phone charger purse $109 L.A. Green Boutique; 662-324-6280.
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By Cat her ine S tuk enbor g 1. Ganz holiday kitchen towel, $9.99 - Merle Norman and Luna Bella; 662-323-5255. 2. Charles Viancin The Hibiscus Silicone Lid, $12.95 Thyme; 662-323-5979. 3. Gena Knox Southern May Way, $34.95 - Thyme; 662-323-5979.
Giftde For the Foodie Gui 13 20
4. Caramel Factory Caramel Icing and Aspen Cider Spices, $1.50-11 - Purple Elephant; 662-324-4008. and Gigglewick; 662-323-4438. 5.Le Creuset Casserole dish, $100 - Thyme; 662-323-5979. 6. Caspasi lobster napkins, $5 - Giggleswick; 662-323-4438. 7. Deer wine stopper, $26 - Thyme; 662-323-5979.
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By Cat her ine S tuk enbor g 1. Mobile Bay trucker hat, $25 - Denim and Lace; 662-320-8081. 2. The Egg Bowl Second Edition, $25 - Merle Norman and Luna Bella; 662-323-5255. 3. Fire starter iron basket, $59.99 - Thyme; 662-323-5979. 4. White Wing game belt, $125 - Sprout Home Garden Baby; 662-338-1144.
Giftde For the Sportsmen Gui 13 20
5. Dawg Wear visor, $18.99 - University Screeprint; 662-324-8277. 6. Vagabond House antler mug, $99.99 Thyme, 662-323-5979. 7. Maintstreet Collection flask, $16.95 - Gigglewick; 662-323-4438.
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Giftde For the Fashionista Gui 13 20
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1. Fabulous earring and bracelet set, $20 - The Style Loft; 662-324-5004. 2. Lauren G. Adams bracelets, $110-165 - Gigglewick; 662-323-4438. 3. Vera Bradley iphone covers, $35 - Giggleswick; 662-323-4438. 4. Hollywood Boot Straps, $ 11.99 - L.A. Green Boutique; 662-324-6280. 5. “MUSEE” Bath Bombs, $6-10 - The University Florist; 662-325-3585.
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6. Kut maroon leather jacket, $10 - Denim and Lace; 662-320-8081. 7. Catherine Popesco bracelet, $90 - L.A. Green Boutique; 662-324-6280. 8. 2 Chic poncho, $34 - Purple Elelphant; 662-324-4008. 9. Grandmother’s Buttons vintage rings, $55 - Merle Norman and Luna Bella; 662-323-5255.
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TOWN & GOWN
MAGAZINE JUNE 2013
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We want your voice to be heard! Send us an email, call us or write to us by mail and receive 10% off subscription price. Must include feedbak and mention this ad. Email: info@townandgownmagazine.com Phone: 662-323-1642 Mail: P.O. Box 1068, Starkville, MS 39759
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A CUP OF LINSAY JO Pho t og r aph y Submitt ed
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.
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t's the holidays, and soon you will likely find yourselves entertaining guests in your home. One of my favorite latest additions to my own home is my bar cart. It doesn't have to be a cart - you can use a cabinet or dresser you already own and give it a new purpose during this festive time of year! Fill it with the requisite bar tools and drinks (don't forget cocktail garnishments and mixers!), and then accessorize it to your own personal taste. Enjoy it at your next holiday party (or Wednesday pick me up). Cheers!
Pick Your Bar
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accent a hutch with a color for your bar
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dressers provide extra storage
Stock the Bar liquor
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Accessorize interesting coaster
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mix classic ginger jars with modern items
quirky art as a conversation piece s
charming paper straws
Add Glassware & Bar Tools
*items available at Thyme and Sprout Home Garden Baby.
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Festive glasses ice bucket & decanter
don’t forget a bottle opener!
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Gold accents
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Fancy our photos?
Follow us on Instagram. @townandgown
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Ballerina Glitz S ty led b y N at alie Phillips Dr esses pr o vidied b y The Br ide and Gr oom in S t ar kville, Miss.
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Margaret LeBrum t
English School of Dance 12th Grade
Interesting Fact: I was able to perform as Elle Woods, the led role in “Legally Blonde the Musical�, for my school, Heritage Academy. Dream dance role: Anything on Broadway. I would love to be in a musical and be able to dance and perform on stage. I love New York City and would love to perform there. Dance idol: My coach, Whitney Ward, would be my dance idol. She is super talented and helps me improve daily at practice. Rituals before a performance: My team and I always pray before we go out and perform. We huddle together and talk about what we have to fix and hit very sharply.
Mixon Bateman English School of Dance in Columbus, Miss. 11th Grade
t Interesting Fact: Last summer I want on a mission trip to Alaska.
Dream dance role: My dream is to be a Rebelette, the Ole Miss Pom Squad. I am an Ole Miss fan and I love watching them perform. My dream is to be on the field with them. Dance idol: Whitney Ward is my dance idol. She was on the Mississippi State Pom Squad and has been coaching me on the Heritage Academy team since seventh grade. She is the new owner of English School of Dance and I started to be more serious about dance when she started coaching me. Rituals before a performance: I like to go through the dance in my head and mark it. Then I stretch and take deep breaths. Then I say a quick prayer. 68
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Emilee Wilcox Dance Divine in Starkville, Miss. 10th Grade
t Interesting Fact: I used to assist the dance teacher with the younger classes by helping teach and come up with the recital pieces. Dream dance role: There are so many to choose from, I can’t choose one. I would like to be a soloist. I enjoy choreographing. Dance idol: I like Ana Pavlovna because she was consistent in her dancing career. She performed tour after tour without a break. Rituals before a performance: I do not do anything special. I like to calm my nerves down by reviewing my dances in my head to make sure I know them well enough.
Brooke Bradford t
Dance Divine in Starkville, Miss. 11th Grade
Interesting Fact: I helped bring my high school, New Hope High School, swim team into first place at state championship in Cleveland, Miss. I am a clown in the clown ministry at Fairview Baptist Church and my clown name is “Ribbonz”. Dream dance role: A couple of years after I graduate high school, I would love to teach dance. I have such a big passion for it and I would love to help others that have the same passion as me. Dance idol: Hayden Hopkins. She is so true to herself when she dances. That is passion and she followed her dreams. Rituals before a performance: I always pray and ask God to give me strength and for me to do the best of my ability.
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Tanner Fant t
Academy of Competitive and Performing Arts 11th Grade
Interesting Fact: I am adopted and modeled in New York City at age five for three months. Dream dance role: Before college, I would love to be a Pulse Elite Protege’ for Tyce Diorio & Brooke Lipton’s classes at the Pulse Dance Competition. Dance idol: My dance idol would be the special needs dancers I teach once a week. Seeing them happy and consume every moment of class makes me realize how lucky I am to be the dancer I am today. Rituals before a performance: I jump around like a kangaroo in the curtains, sing my performance song in my head, and finally say a quick prayer.
Victoria Sanders Academy of Competitive and Performing Arts 9th Grade
t Interesting Fact: This year will be my first year to compete in dance competitions. Dream dance role: To audition for the television show “So You Think You Can Dance?” To be on the show would be a great experience and a tremendous honor. Dance idol: I have many but one of my biggest inspirations in dance/choreography is Travis Wall. Hi is literally an artist. He choreography is so full of emotion that is leaves such an impression on you and fills you with awe. Rituals before a performance: I just pray that everything goes as planned. I try to stay calm and clear my head. I would also try to review all of the dances and make sure I know what I am doing before I go on stage. 70
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Brooke Dawkins t
English School of Dance in Columbus, Miss. 11th Grade
Interesting Fact: I sang with my choir in Carnegie Hall last may.
Dream dance role: I would love to be Odette in Swan Lake. I grew up doing ballet. I started when I was two and Swan Lake always has been a dream of mine to perform. The story is beautiful. Dance idol: Anna Pavlova has always been a big inspiration to me. She was a Russian Principal dancer and I grew up dreaming to become a company’s principle dancer. Rituals before a performance: I have to look at the audience. I know that sounds strange because most was to block the audience out of their mind. I like to find that one interesting person and perform to them.
Megan Traweek English School of Dance in Columbus, Miss. 11th Grade
t Interesting Fact: Animals are attracted to me. No matter wear I go there is most likely an animal that is jumping all over me. I am also double jointed in my fingers. Dream dance role: I do not have a plan to be a professional dancer in the future. Dance idol: Sonya Tayeh is my dance idol. I love her choreography. It is quirky and strong. Rituals before a performance: I listen to my iPod and goof off with my dance friends.
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By Susan O’Bryan
A Ghostly Shade of Pale A re you in search of a fascinating gift for your favorite reading enthusiast? Look no further than an offering by a Mississippi writer who lays battered emotions bare for all to see. Tupelo native Merle Temple has impressed fans, including members of Yarn Spinners book club from the Choctaw County MSU Extension Service office in Ackerman, Miss. , with his debut novel, A Ghostly Shade of Pale. He’s turned fact into fiction, loosely basing his crime novel on experiences as one of the first agents in the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics and his role in the nation’s 1970s drug wars. Club member Frances Coleman recommended the book to the Yarn Spinners. She first met the now-retired drug agent when her husband was a judge in northeast Mississippi. “What a blessing it was to have Merle Temple visit us to talk about A Ghostly Shade of Pale. To meet this tall, soft-spoken gentleman, one would never conclude that he would be capable of writing some of the painful, actually torturous, events that unfold in this story, let alone to have literally lived almost all of them!” says Jan Ballard, a longtime Yard Spinner. “Ghostly gives a clear and vivid history of the greed, crime and corruption that was flourishing unchecked in northeast Mississippi in the late 1960s and early 1970s.” Main character Michael Parker finds himself surrounded by violence, yet he maintains a strong Christian faith as insulation in a fast-changing, drug-fueled era. When the love of his life, Dixie Lee, is endangered, he blames himself for exposing her to evil. To find redemption, Parker must continue to fight for what he believes. “The hero of the book, a knight wearing the armor of God, seems too good to be true until you meet Merle and find out that he is real and has been willing to sacrifice much to take a stand,” Ballard says. “Throughout the retelling of some struggles between goodness/evil and beauty/ugliness, he is able to present a respect not only for the characters in the book, but even for the reader, that I have not experienced before in this type of literature. Kudos also go out to Temple for drawing readers into an emotional story without using profanity or sex as a crutch. He brings the 1970s into focus – Vietnam, drugs, counterculture and all the factors that changed life as most had known it. “There were so many divergent challenges to the nation
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converging on the same state,” Temple writes in his blog. “A rich time to draw from as a writer, and one that I was eyewitness to. “Ghostly is fiction loosely based on my
experiences, but the well from which it was all drawn is my life and those of many friends from those times … our dreams, our triumphs and our failures.” Temple is writing a sequel, “A Rented World,” and serving his Christian faith as an evangelist. *** Yarn Spinners is a spin-off (pun intended) of the Full Circle knitting and crochet group, says Jan Ballard of the Extension Service in Ackerman. Full Circle started in February 2009 with the following premise: “A circle, or group, of people coming together to share common interests, to share friendship and fellowship, and to share talents with the goal of producing items that might help someone in need.” “Right from the beginning, different people would mention a good book which they were reading and either discuss it, or suggest that others might enjoy reading it,” Ballard said. “Because this became such a common thread, the idea of everyone reading and discussing the same book at the same time was born.” Yarn Spinners meets from 10:30 a.m.-noon on the first Tuesday of the month at the Choctaw County Extension Service office in Ackerman. For more information, e-mail Jan Ballard at jballard@ext.msstate.edu. Merle Temple will be among featured authors Dec. 12 at the annual Holiday Open House at the Library.
Columbus Christmas Open House
Columbus, Miss. held their annual Christmas Open House from 1-5 p.m. on Sunday, November 10, 2013 where specials and promotions were available from participating downtown businesses. Plus, there were door prices and special activities for attendees. Photography by Laura Daniels
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1. Rebecca Swain and Mary Margaret Swain 2. Ruby Brooks and Lynn Byars 3. Jordyn Parker and Jenny Rogers 4. Caitlin, Samantha and Makenzie Rushing 5. Arlene Page and Pam Johnson 6. Kelly Hayes and Emily Hayes
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Starkville Community Theatre
The Starkville Community Theatre presented “A Catered Affair� from October 31-November 3, 2013 directed by Pattye Archer. Photography by Laura Daniels
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1. June Dempsey, Sue Cherry and Charlotte Newell 2. Marilyn Mullendore and Mary Stennis 3. Mary Ann Berry and Jeannie Johnson 4. Barbara Qubon, Barry Ward and Grace Ward 5. Linda Graves, Jeri Mangum and Sara Crow 6. Anita Reynolds and Betty Wilson
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America’s Music Series
The Mississippi State University Library sponsored “America’s Music: A Film History of Our Popular Music from Blues to Bluegrass to Broadway” on Tuesday, October 15, 2013 featuring documentary film screenings and scholar -led discussion of 20th century American popular music. Photography by Laura Daniels
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1.Jessica Walker and Beatrice Taylor 2. Michael Brown, Lynda Graham and David Nolen (Program Organizers) 3.Ben McCarter and Tyler Roop 4. John Baga and Randall McMillen 5. Lauren Lovett and Haley Hauss 6. Greta Wood and Damen Peterson
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Starkville Area Arts Council Gala The Starkville Area Arts Council held their annual Gala on Saturday, November 9, 2013 at the Hunter Henry Center. Photography by Laura Daniels
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1. Bob Hawkins and Hawkins 2. Claire Elliott, Robert Camp, Joan Mylroie and John Mylroie 3. Armando delaCruz (recieved the SAAC Award of Excellence) and Ruth delaCruz 4. Jason and Naomi Walker 5. David and Ellen Boles 6. Angi and Thomas Bourgeois
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MSU College of Veterinary Medicine Reception The Dean of Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine held a reception honoring special guests Michael and Cathy Stewart of Wildhorse Kennels on Tuesday, October 29, 2013 at the home of Larry and Linda Jo Templeton. Photography by Ashley Covin
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1. Brian and Karen Templeton 2. Jack and Klancie Smith 3. Meredith and Todd Archer 4. Patty Latham, Jen Gambino, Erin Brinkman-Ferguson and Michaela Beasley
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Ducks Unlimited Bulldog Chapter The Bulldog Chapter of Ducks Unlimited held their 2013 Banquet on Tuesday, November 12, 2013 at Rick’s Cafe in Starkville. Attendees enjoyed a raffle, live and silent actions and a pork tenderloin dinner. Photography by Laura Daniels
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1. Patrick Nelson, Anna Baglan and Spencer Beasley 2. Spencer Craig, Ashley O’keefe and Wesley Tucker 3. Dana Randall, Luke Coleman and Noah Averitt 4.Jason Page, Megan Annison and Hunter Pridgen 5. Logan Martin and Scott Sanders 6. Derek Buck, Haiden Rodgers, Ben Hodges and Anne Wallis Eubanks 78
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7. Jordan Stegall, Ryan Rhea and Mallory Lesley 8. Spencer Beasley and Mona McComic 9. Maggie Gladney and Caleb McMinn 10. Jon McCoy, Jeremy Miller, Olivia McCain
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Inbox Us! By mail: P.O. Box 1068, Starkville, MS 39760 By email: info@townandgownmagazine.com
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CALENDAR Nov 6 - Dec 20
WTVA Food For Families Food Drive WTVA Food For Families Food Drive will last until Dec. 20, 2013. Drop off non-perishable food items at any Food Giant or the MSU Extension Office in Oktibbeha County. Remember, your donations stay in the county they are donated in. For more informations go to wtva.com.
December 1
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.
December 2
Starkville Community Christmas Parade The Greater Starkville Development Partnership will host the annual Starkville Community Christmas Parade through downtown Starkville at 6 p.m.The theme will be “Christmas in Who-Ville”. For more information visit starkville.org.
MSU Candlelight Choral Concert The Mississippi State University Chorals will present their Candlelight Choral Concert at 7:30 p.m. with free admission at First Baptist Church. For more information visit msstate.edu.
December 3
Bach’s “Magnificat” The MSU Singers and the Symphony Orchestra will host Bach’s “Magnificat” at First Baptist Church at 7:30 p.m. Admission is free and for more information visit statesings.com.
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The New Age Traveler
Omnova Series
The Apparel,Textiles, & Merchandising (ATM) program at MSU will host “The New Age Traveler” fashion show supported by Cotton Inc. Support Program. Show will begin at 7 p.m. in the Union Ballroom on MSU’s campus.The show will feature designs made of at least 60% cotton and merchandising projects made by MSU’s very own students. General admission is free. For more information visit msstate.edu.
The Columbus Arts Council will have an Omnova Series featuring A Christmas Celebration with Stephanie Jackson and Friends starting at 7 p.m. For more information visit columbus-arts.org.
“The Criss Concert” The Starkville MSU Symphony Orchestra Association presents “The Criss Concert” from 7:30-9:30 p.m. at First Baptist Church. For more information visit starkvillemsusymphony.com.
December 4 Holiday Bazaar
The Greater Starkville Development Partnership will host their annual Holiday Bazaar featuring over 150 artisans displaying handmade goods at the Sportsplex from 10 a.m.-7 p.m. and the same time on Dec. 5, 2013. For more information visit starkville.org.
Blue Ribbon Business Resources Series The Blue Ribbon Business Resources Series will have a lunch seminar from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Hilton Garden Inn featuring Mike Goree speaking about “Bring Them Back with Who You Are: Customer Service Plenary”.
December 5
Chick-fil-A Mini Moo Time From 9-10 a.m. Chick-fil-A will host their Mini Moo Time fro ages 6 and under at the Starkville location every Thursday. Kids will enjoy story time, crafts and the Chick-fil-A Cow.
December 6
Wassail Fest and Lighting of the Christmas Columbus will have their Wassail Fest and Lighting of the Christmas Tree in downtown Columbus, Miss. at 6 p.m. For more information visit columbusmainstreet.com.
December7
A Southern Soiree Junior Auxiliary of West Point, Miss. presents a charity event benefitting the children of Clay County at 7 p.m. at The Civic in West Point. Entertainment by Full Circle Party Band and there will be a silent auction, heavy hors d’oeuvres and VIP tables are available. Purchase tickets at Bits & Pieces and Phillip’s Hardware.
December 8
Starkville Civic Tour of Homes Join the Owens Brothers Band in concert at 7:30 p.m. and not only enjoy a night of music, come early around 3:30 p.m. to participate in the Country Music Karaoke Contest. All located at the Choctaw Community Center in Ackerman, Miss. For more information call 662-285-6424.
December 9
The Great Golf Ball Drop East Mississippi Community College of Business and Marketing Management program presents the Great Golf Ball Drop at 1 p.m. at the EMCC Lion Hills in Columbus, Miss. All proceeds go to the EMCC BMMT’s Collegiate DECA funds. Ball will be $5 each. For more information go to greatgolfballdrop. webs.com.
December 10
Holiday Banquet & Chamber Concert Magnolia Manor will host the 1st Holiday Banquet and Chamber Concert from 6-9 p.m. at Magnolia Manor.The concert will feature Stephanie Jackson and friends and their will be a 4-course meal beginning at 6:30 p.m. with appetizers. If you plan to have a cocktail bring your own alcoholic refreshment.
Tupelo’s Christmas Parade The downtown Tupelo Mainstreet Association will hold their “Nighttime Parade” featuring the Anheuser-Busch Clydesdales starting at 6:30 p.m. in downtown Tupelo. For more information visit tupelomainstreet.com.
“A Christmas Cabaret” The Starkville Community Theatre presents “A Christmas Cabaret” directed by Pattye Archer and Brad Moreland. Production dates will be from Dec. 1014. For more information and time visit sct-online.org.
December12
Chick-fil-A Mini Moo Time From 9-10 a.m. Chick-fil-A will host their Mini Moo Time fro ages 6 and under at the Starkville location every Thursday. Kids will enjoy story time, crafts and the Chick-fil-A Cow.
Holiday Open House Ackerman will hold their Holiday Open House with Santa at the Choctaw County Library from 2:30-6 p.m.
Starkville Young Professionals The Starkville Young Professionals will have their monthly social at Zorba’s Greek Tavern.The social will be a tacky Christmas party and will have a silent auction. For more information visit their Facebook.
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