Batesville and Beyond Pigskin 2021

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BATESVILLE Beyond

PIGSKIN 2021 ISSUE 28

TIGERS ARE READY TO

ROAR

THE GREEN WAVE IS PREPARED FOR THE SPOTLIGHT

SOMETHING BIG IS BREWING WITH THE COUGARS A PUBLICATION OF THE PANOLIAN

INDEX

5 South Panola Player 10 Profile - D' Mariun Parteet North Delta 12 Preview Delta Player 15 North Profile - Aden Sykes Panola 17 North Tigers Preview 21 Schedules Panola People: 25 Jerome Partee Remembering 27 Greatness Worth 30 Food a Road Trip 33 Tailgate Recipes Spotted: 34 Farmers Market 35 Style 36 Marketplace South Panola Tigers Preview 2021

2 Batesville & Beyond

&Beyond

BATESVILLE

THE MAGAZINE

A PUBLICATION OF THE PANOLIAN

SUMMER 2021 ISSUE 28 EDITORIAL Jeremy Weldon Brad Greer CONTRIBUTORS Johnathan Williams Lauren Jones Allen Brewer Glennie Pou DESIGN Allison Dale ADMINISTRATION Delia Childers Nikki Buford

This edition of Batesville & Beyond was published April 2021 by Batesville Newsmedia, LLC. POSTMASTER Send Address changes to Batesville Newsmedia, LLC. P.O. Box 1616 Batesville, MS 38606

from the publisher

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Welcome to the summer issue Batesville and Beyond, which includes the Pigskin Preview. Football season has arrived, our favorite season in Panola County. The excitement and anticipation for 2021 is evident. Readers have been stopping by The Panolian office and calling since mid-July asking about the football poster schedule. We will have plenty this year, and the posters will be at our sponsor locations around the county.

High School football brings people together as a community as few things do these days. In our Pigskin Preview, Brad Greer and Johnathan Williams put together a great look ahead for each team as well as impact players to watch this season. North Delta will kick off their season first, followed by South Panola and North Panola.

Panola county players, coaches, parents, cheerleaders, band members and fans have high hopes that this football season goes off without a hitch, as we are in the second year dealing with impacts from the pandemic. We pray for the safety and well-being of all involved in bringing the Friday night lights excitement to life.

Communities also come together around the barber shop.

In this edition, you will find a profile of barber shop owner and entrepreneur, Jerome Partee who owns not only a barber shop but also shave ice truck in Batesville. Two ways to bring people together in a positive way.

We also look at some restaurants that are out of the way for some folks in Panola County. The food is worth the drive in our opinion, and we hope you think so as well.

Rebecca Alexander Publisher

Phone: 662-563-4591 Email: publisher@panolian.com

HOW TO REACH US: For story ideas or comments: Jeremy Weldon or Rebecca Alexander Phone: 662-563-4591 email: editor@panolian.com email: publisher@panolian.com Batesville & Beyond 3

4 Batesville & Beyond

SOUTH PANOLA

IT’S TIME FOR THE TIGERS

TO ROAR! The 2021 Team Ranks High in Preseason Polls

BY BRAD GREER

A

new district that a includes an old rival awaits South Panola as the 2021 football season fast approaches.

The Tigers, who finished 6-3 last season, will move into Region 1-6A after completing a tough District 2 the previous two seasons.

South Panola opens the season Aug.27 on

the road against Neshoba Central then hosts Oxford the following week. Region play begins Sept.24 at Hernando follow by long time nemesis Olive Branch rolling into Batesville on Oct. 1.

The Tigers will start the year ranked No.5 in the preseason polls according to capitalsportsms.com “We have had a normal summer compared to last year and we’ve got regular routine

Batesville & Beyond 5

“We have had a normal summer compared to last year and we’ve got regular routine going that is a little closer to normality. The kids have came in and worked really hard so it’s about time to get started.”

— Tiger head coach Ricky Woods.

ANDY YOUNG

Tiger Tiram Wadlington makes a tackle against Hernando in last season’s 6A North Playoff game.

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6 Batesville & Beyond

ANDY YOUNG

Offensive lineman #78 Jaterrion Dorris and tight end #89 James Scott line up last year.

going that is a little closer to normality. The kids have came in and worked really hard so it’s about time to get started,” said Tiger head coach Ricky Woods.

South Panola returns 12 starters, six on each side of the football including junior quarterback David Hubbard along with junior running back D’mariun Perteet. Hubbard threw for 649 yards and five touchdowns despite playing half the season with a torn knee cartilage.

Perteet meanwhile led the team in

rushing with 871 yards and 16 touchdowns including the gamewinning score in a 35-34 double overtime thriller over Warren Central to vault South Panola into the playoffs.

The 6-foot-1, 200-pound pound Perteet has already caught the eye of colleges having offered from Arkansas and Arizona.

“We have two other kids at quarterback that play other positions such as Mykel Allen who will play in the slot and defense

while Michael Johnson can play tight end and receiver, but we are comfortable with what David can do and he is our starter right now,” said Woods.

Woods went on to say the wide receiver spot will be one of the deepest positions on the squad. As many as six players could be in the mix, including senior John Blockmon along with Johnson and Allen.

Look for the Tiger offensive line to be solid with returning starters Batesville & Beyond 7

Jaterrion Dorris, Javien Hopson and Zemarion Tucker in the trenches.

On the defensive side of the ball, South Panola must replace departed seniors Tre’Norwood and Zach Brown on the line, but will return the senior trio of Tavion Cotton, Jalen Kerby and Elijah Kitchens with Dorris and Ternderous Sanford seeing playing time.

A familiar name has been added to the South Panola coaching staff as former Tiger, Ole Miss and NFL veteran John Jerry will be in charge of the defensive line.

“There are three assistants on the staff currently that played for me when I was here the first time.

We are excited to have all of these former players that have returned to the community. It seems like everybody knows everybody in some sort of way,” said Woods.

South Panola Tigers offense last year

®

8 Batesville & Beyond

ANDY YOUNG

Assistant coaches include: Chuck Friend (defensive coordinator), Lee Grisham (linebackers), Matt Prentice (offensive line), Artee Smith (tight ends), Justin Lee (wide receivers), Luke Kiihnl (defensive backs) and Zach Broadaway (running backs).

Woods also stated the linebacker position will have depth with six to eight players making up the starting four slots.

The defensive backfield looks to be in good shape with three of four starters returning from last season which include Marcus House, Jr., Jerian Gleaton and Landis McKinney who will be moved over from the offense.

Woods went on to say he expects 16 players to see time on the defensive side of the ball. The quarterback, receiver and running back position will have the most depth on the squad.

Batesville & Beyond 9

SOUTH PANOLA

PARTEET LOOKS TO BE THE FOCAL POINT OF THE OFFENSE

BY JOHNATHAN WILLIAMS

S

outh Panola is home to many great running backs in the state of Mississippi, including, Qyendarius Griffin, Darius “Tig” Barksdale, and more recently, current Los Angeles Rams player, Darrell Henderson.

Some might say that you can give the title of RBU or “Running Back University” of Mississippi to the South Panola Tigers. South Panola seems to have another running back on the rise, and it's junior D’Mariun “Dee” Perteet.

Perteet, who currently weighs around 200 pounds and stands at 5’11, will look to cause problems for a lot of defenses this year as he has been named one of the top running backs in the state in his junior year.

Parteet had a very solid season last year carrying the ball 141 times for 871 yards and 16 touchdowns. He also has been the guy to show up when he needs to in big games like when he scores the game winning touchdown and two point conversion against Warren Central that would eventually help South Panola return back to the 6A playoffs.

Although Perteet had an impressive sophomore year, he wants to make a bigger impact for the Tigers in his Junior year.

“I know that I have to work harder and make bigger plays.” Perteet said. “My work ethic

10 Batesville & Beyond

also has to be a little bit harder because now I feel like people will expect more out of me this year.”

Perteet has also stated that he has enjoyed working with his new running back coach, Zach Broadway, to help him become a better player than he was before.

“I have been very comfortable with Coach Broadway as our new running back coach.” Perteet stated. “He has influenced and pushed me to make sure I always give it 100% on every play and to continue to make an impact on the field.”

Perteet currently holds two Division One offers from the University of Arkansas and the University or Arizona, so he has definitely been garnering some national attention as well.

Even though he knows of all the hype and expectation surrounding his name this year,

he is focused on one thing, and that is bringing South Panola home a state championship trophy.

“We have a lot of young players coming back this year, but I feel like we still have a very good team compared to last year's squad so it will be very interesting to see how we do this year.” Parteet stated.

Off the field Perteet is just your regular country kid. During his free time, he likes to go fishing and ride horses. He also enjoys mud riding. He has shown that outside of football, he is just your typical teenager who enjoys doing many other activities whether it be fishing or working out in the gym.

South Panola is known for producing great running backs, and Perteet looks to be the next man up.

“I have been very comfortable with Coach Broadway as our new running back coach. He has influenced and pushed me to make sure I always give it 100% on every play and to continue to make an impact on the field.”

— Junior D’Mariun “Dee” Perteet.

Batesville & Beyond 11

NORTH DELTA

HIGH HOPES FOR ANOTHER

CHAMPIONSHIP

SEASON

The Green Wave is prepared to be in the spotlight again this year 12 Batesville & Beyond

BY BRAD GREER

C

oming off a district championship season in 2020, the North Delta School Green Wave will have a bullseye on their backs leading into the 2021 football season.

North Delta must replace 10 seniors from last year’s 8-3 squad, which lost to Brookhaven Academy in the first round of the Class 4A State playoffs. Loses include three-year starting quarterback Ryan Gibson along with Hawk Aldison and Drake Barton.

The cupboard is far from bare as the Green Wave returns a solid nucleus thanks in part a big junior class plus a mix sophomores who will see valuable see valuable playing time.

“We have very good core group of kids coming back. Our sophomore class is not very big, but we’ve got 14 juniors who have been together for awhile so we definitely like who we have returning.

Our biggest issue right now is depth.”

JR HIGH FOOTBALL

BACK ROW Reid Morris, Brady McClain, Luke Higgins, Baylor Pierce, John Thomas Crenshaw, Gage Bryant, Julius Anderson, Riley Cook,Walker Cook. 2ND ROW Blake Herring, Seal Miliam, Kolby Baker, Kason Bates, Calab Walls, Colton Shideler, Hayes Herron. BOTTOM ROW David Easton, Mason Fly, Caden Land, Logan Mills, Evan Mayfield, Paxton Hall, Drew Hobson, Gobe Ward. said North Delta head coach Mac Aldison.

The Green Wave had 23 players report to pre-season practices with five seniors and four sophomores dotting the roster.

Senior Nolan Long returns to anchor down the offensive and defensive line along with fellow classmates Aden Sykes

and wide receiver/defensive back Layton Wells. Sykes could also see playing time at the running back position.

“Nolan is a big kid that has turned into a really good player for us and Layton has put on about 20 pounds from last year and has worked really hard in the weight

Batesville & Beyond 13

HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL - VARSITY

ABOVE: BACK ROW - Levi Martin, Max Michael, Ridge Aldison, Stiles, Rowland, Simses, Donell, Drake Martin, Nolan Long, Sawyer Payne. 2ND ROW - Martin Wolfe, Lewis Smith, Levi Gee, Britt Robertson, Aden Sykes, Layton Wells, Alton Lee, Lawson Wolfe. BOTTOM ROW - Rowan Baker, John Riley Taylor, Will Alred, Deacon Downs, Matt Johnson, JT Brooks RIGHT: BACK ROW Carly Flautt, Bently Wiliimas, Ellie Gray, Sadie Gray, Shelby Boone, Libby Miller, Sonni Smith. 2ND ROW Maggie Henry, Betsy Wolfe, Lily Kate Locke. BOTTOM ROW Ellie Donaldson, Kylie Dungan, Autumn Boone, Emily Wells, Emma Nichopoulos, Liza Clark

room. Aden will play tight end and defensive end. We will look for Martin Wolfe to run the at times. Alton Lee didn’t play a lot last year because of knee issues, but we will look for him to start at the center position,” said Aldison.

The Green Wave returns seven starters on defense including Wolfe, Ridge Aldson, Sykes and Max Michael. Look for juniors Britt Robertson and Stiles Rowland to fill in at the linebacker spot.

Aldison continued to say the defensive line and secondary will be the strength of the team with Lewis Smith, Matt Johnson

14 Batesville & Beyond

HIGH SCHOOL CHEER

and Wells roaming the backfield.

Smith will replace Ryan Gibson at quarterback, but Aldison says he has confidence in the junior who will also handle the place kicking duties.

“Lewis has some big shoes to feel, but we are excited about him and will know he can be in charge of our offense. He is very athletic and a very hard runner who has been working hard all summer,” said Aldison.

Levi Gee will look to be the workhorse in the backfield along with Robertson, Johnson and Wolfe.

Wideouts will include Wells and sixfoot-four junior Semmes Dorrel.

North Delta welcomes district newcomer Oak Hill Academy along with Kirk, Clarksdale Lee Academy and Marshall Academy. The Wave will face a tough nondistrict slate with the likes of Pillow and Greenville St. Joseph who is ranked No. 2 in the preseason 4A Poll with Clarksdale Lee coming in at No. 5 according to mississippigridiron.com.

Joining Aldison on the coaching staff are assistants Colt Aldison and Benji Pierce.

NORTH DELTA

SYKES LOOKS TO HAVE A BREAKOUT SENIOR SEASON FOR ND

BY BRAD GREER

season by starting at tight on offense and defensive end. f someone were to look up Fast forward to the 2021 the definition of a true team campaign and Sykes could see leader on the football field playing time in the offensive then Aden Sykes’ name would backfield at running back. most likely come to mind.

“This will be Aden’s third A three-year lettermen for year to start at defensive end of the North Delta football team, us. He is a tough young man Sykes has been battle tested and plays the position the way when it comes to being on the it’s supposed to be played. He gridiron on Friday nights. works extremely hard in the The 5-foot-10, 220-pound weight room and has been a senior played a vital part in pleasure to coach. We expect guiding the Green Wave to a this season to be his best yet. district championship last He is also an excellent blocker

I

“This will be Aden’s third year to start at defensive end of us. He is a tough young man and plays the position the way it’s supposed to be played. He works extremely hard in the weight room and has been a pleasure to coach. We expect this season to be his best yet. He is also an excellent blocker and will play tight end for us when needed.”

— North Delta head coach Mac Aldison.

Batesville & Beyond 15

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16 Batesville & Beyond

Third-year starter Aden Sykes is set to make big plays on both offense and defense as he did last season. and will play tight end for us when needed,” said North Delta head coach Mac Aldison.

Asked what it will take for the Green Wave to repeat as district champions and make a return trip to the playoffs, Sykes was straight forwarded and to the point.

“It’s going to take hard work both on and off of the field just as the same as last season. Everybody in the district is going to be gunning for us, but that how we want it to be. I know we have the best team in the district and now it’s time to go out and prove it just like we did last year. Nothing was given to us last season, we had to earn it,” said Sykes.

While future plans after high school are still on hold, Sykes said he will enjoy the remaining time he has left wearing the Green and White.

Sykes in the son of Micheal and Amy Sykes of Charleston.

NORTH PANOLA

COUGARS SOMETHING BIG IS BREWING WITH THE

BY JOHNATHAN WILLIAMS

N

orth Panola made quite a name for themselves last year and struck fear into every team they faced. There is nothing like going to a Friday night football game deep in Cougar territory

and just feeling the atmosphere all around you.

Even though Covid-19 reduced the numbers of fans who could attend the games, The stadium was still rocking with excitement with how well the Cougars played last year.

The Cougars would go on

to have an 8-2 record on the year and ended up making it to the third round of the 3A Football State Championship Bracket.

This year, Coach Montgomery has said you can expect more out of this team. It’s not easy being a first year head coach

Batesville & Beyond 17

GLENNIE POU.

The Cougars are returning this year with a new head coach and a desire to maintain the momentum of the 2020 season, which saw the team advance to the third round of the state championships. and having to play your first season in a pandemic where anything can happen at any time, but Montgomery was still able to put the pieces together and turn North Panola into a huge threat in 3A Football.

“I'm excited about this season,” said Coach Montgomery. “I got some key players coming back that are definitely going to make a huge impact on the team this year.”

North Panola will only be returning four guys back offensively including junior quarterback Q.D. Walls, who will certainly play a key factor in moving the football this year. Walls has shown us in the past that he definitely has a big arm and a keen ability to 18 Batesville & Beyond

“Walls did a really good job last year with it being his first year as a starter. If we are being honest I think he could throw for about 2,500 yards this year. I can’t wait to see him step up for this team going forward.”

— Coach Montgomery

North Panola looks to rely on returning strength on both sides of the ball for the 2022 season.

run out of the pocket and make great plays.

“Walls did a really good job last year with it being his first year as a starter.” Montgomery said. “If we are being honest I think he could throw for about 2,500 yards this year. I can’t wait to see him step up for this team going forward.”

North Panola will also be returning senior running back Limekin Walls which will give the Cougars leverage in the running game as he can make big plays when you least expect it. Promising sophomore wide receiver Jakyreyun Harrell will also be a threat to opposing defenses this year as he looks to make an even bigger name for himself. The Cougars did lose a few key defensive players including Steven Edwards, Rod Taylor Batesville & Beyond 19

and Theodore Henley III, but they have a lot of new faces who look forward to filling their shoes.

The Cougars are bringing back a very good squad and look to have a better season than they did last year. In fact, the Cougars eye is only on one thing this year, and that is lifting the 3A State championship trophy this year.

20 Batesville & Beyond

“We don’t step on that football field if we are not trying to play for a state championship.”

Montgomery said. “I’ve been fortunate enough as a coach to be able to coach a state championship game so I don't do anything that I do without the purpose of getting on that field and trying to get to that level. That's how I’ve always been and that's how I always will be.”

SOUTH PANOLA FOOTBALL Date 8/20 8/27 9/3 9/10 9/17 9/24 10/1 10/8 10/15 10/22 10/29 11/5

Opponent Location Time Lafayette (Jamboree) Home 7:00 Neshoba Central Away 7:00 Oxford Home 7:00 Cordova,(Tenn) Away 7:00 Clarksdale Home 7:00 Hernando* Away 7:00 Olive Branch* Home 7:00 Southaven* Home 7:00 Lewisburg* Away 7:00 Desoto Central(HC)* 7:00 Horn Lake* Away 7:00 Center Hill* Home 7:00 Asterisk denotes district games

South Panola in action last season.

ANDY YOUNG

Batesville & Beyond 21

GLENNIE POU.

North Delta’s Coach Montgomery says the team has one focus when it steps on the field this year: playing for the championship.

NORTH DELTA SCHOOL FOOTBALL Date 8/20 8/27 9/3 9/10 9/17 9/24 10/1 10/8 10/15 10/22

Opponent Rossville(Tn.) Pillow Kirk* Bayou Marshall* Greenville St.Joe Oak Hill(HC)* Indianola Winona Christian Clarksdale Lee*

Location Home Away Home Away Away Home Home Away Away

Time 7:00 7:00 7:00 7:00 7:00 7:00 7:00 7:00 7:00 7:00

Bold denotes District games 22 Batesville & Beyond

POPE JUNIOR HIGH BULLDOGS FOOTBALL Date 8/24 8/31 9/7 9/14 9/21 9/28 10/5 10/12

Opponent Coffeeville Strayhorn Water Valley Batesville Strayhorn Coffeeville Batesville Water Valley

Location Home Away Home Home Home Away Away Away

South Panola in action last season.

ANDY YOUNG

Batesville & Beyond 23

NORTH DELTA SCHOOL JR.HIGH

Date 8/26 9/2 9/9 9/16 9/23 9/30 10/7

Opponent Washington School Clarksdale Lee Pillow Marshall Bayou Kirk Oak Hill

Location Away Home Home Home Home Away Away

All games start at 7 p.m

2021 SOUTH PANOLA JUNIOR HIGH

Date 8/30 9/9 9/14 9/16 9/23 9/30 10/5 10/7 10/14

Opponent Lafayette Co. Tupelo Pope (7th grade) Oxford Grenada Tupelo Pope (8th grade) Oxford Grenada

Location Away Home Away Home Away Away Home Away Home

All games start at 5 pm 24 Batesville & Beyond

“If you can develop a skill that they can use in the world that can help them become a job instead of looking for one. I can take all of my businesses all over the country. I try to tell young people that if they stay focused on the road ahead of them, good things will always happen.”

— Local barber, Jerome Partee

HELPING THE COMMUNITY

ONE HAIRCUT AT A TIME

BY JOHNATHAN WILLIAMS

W

hen you take a deeper dive into the small community of Batesville, Mississippi, you can find some unique people who play a huge role in their local neighborhoods. These people help by not just making a good impact

on their communities, but they also try to become great role models for the younger generations. Local barber Jerome Partee is one of many people whose contribution to this town keeps the small town of Batesville a great place.

For those who don’t know,

Partee is a barber and a businessman. He currently owns his own business called “Partee’s Barbershop” located at 210A Pearson Street. Partee has been cutting hair for over 27 years and doesn’t plan on stopping soon.

“I had an uncle back in the day that used to cut my hair, and he

Jerome Partee shows off his razors after a long day at his barbershop Batesville & Beyond 25

always wanted to keep us with a nice haircut,” Partee said. “Once I realized that he didn’t want to cut my hair anymore, I started trying to cut my own hair.”

At his young age, Partee knew that he needed to figure out what to do with his hair. So he tried cutting it himself and did a pretty good job. He then realized that if he could cut his own hair, he could cut someone else’s hair, and that is exactly what he did. Partee would go on to start cutting three young guys' hair from across the street every two weeks. This would be his first start in his long career as a barber.

Partee would go on to attend Northwest Community College from 1992 to 1993 to become a cosmetologist.

“I started cutting hair professionally in the spring of 1994 in Como with a guy named Johnny Armstrong, and that was a big deal for me because Armstrong’s Barbershop was one of the major shops in the area and I feel like if you can make it there, you can make it anywhere.” Partee stated.

After a year of working with Armstrong,

Partee decided to pair up with Keithron Jones, another local barber, and opened up “Tron and JS” barber shop on Highway 6, where Partee would stay for five years before finally settling down in his current building, where he has worked for 18 years.

Partee’s shop would end up becoming a huge hit for the local community. Before the coronavirus pandemic hit the country, his shop would be packed everyday with people of all ages, and he would always talk and interact with his customers to make them feel at home. Most people who would go to Partee’s shop knew each other as friends or neighbors who grew up together. There were no such things as “strangers” when you entered that building. Everyone treated each other like family. Partee noticed how big of an impact that he had and wanted to give back to his own community, so he decided to make his own snow cone trailer to sell icy treats along with other delicious snacks right outside his barbershop.

This snow cone truck would once

BATESVILLE Beyond

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Call for Advertising Rates!

662•563•4591 26 Batesville & Beyond

again help boost Partee’s business and became so much of a big deal that he would go on to sell at many different events. Some events were as far as Little Rock, Arkansas. Although Partee was able to do multiple shows with his food trailer in many different cities, he also knew that it made a difference in his local community. Watching kids of all ages line up outside on a very hot summer day to get a snow cone always puts a smile on his face. Partee has always tried to be a role model for the younger kids and has always tried to give back as much as he can.

“I always try to encourage lots of people that if they get into different things, you can find what's right for you.”

Partee stated. “If you can develop a skill that they can use in the world that can help them become a job instead of looking for one. I can take all of my businesses all over the country.” “I try to tell young people that if they stay focused on the road ahead of them, good things will always happen.”

SOUTH PANOLA

REMEMBERING

GREATNESS

BY JOHNATHAN WILLIAMS

T

hree words that can be used to describe the South Panola Tigers Football program: Dominance, Prestigious, and Greatness.

Around the entire state of Mississippi, you will not find another storied football program like the South Panola Tigers.

In the past 20 years, South Panola has won nine state championships. All the squads displayed talent unlike no other teams in the state; however, one of those squads stands out from the rest of the bunch. That was the 2010 National Championship Team.

This team had talent all over the roster. In fact, if you look at this team on paper, one would be hard pressed to find a weak spot at any position. South Panola had dedicated guys who night in and night out contributed to this team and it showed every single week.

In 2010, South Panola was able to bring back a lot of talented seniors including, quarterback Lee Self, Running Back Qyendairs Griffin, Wide Receiver Nickolas Brassell, and defensive back, Kendrick Market. South Panola also had key pieces such as defensive tackle, Issac Gross, and defensive back (and future five star recruit) Tony Conner. South

of their season. South Panola opened the year defeating the Petal Panthers (who would end their season 9-3) by a score of 38-0 in a complete blowout on the road.

Running back Qyendairs Griffin would have a huge night for the Tigers on the ground as he gained over 230 rushing yards to get them their first win of the season. The momentum continued as they planned to take an 8 hour trip to face off against the Colquitt County Packers.

“I remember that day like any other day” said former South Panola quarterback Lee Self. “I can remember getting there on Thursday staying in a hotel and most of our team were country boys from rural places so we had never stayed in a hotel or been out of the state in general. The The 2010 Tigers celebrated their state championship on their way to being next morning we got up and it declared national champions. was steaming hot outside.”

Despite facing challenges of Panola knew coming into the County Packers. humidity and being far away season that they had a chance to The Packers were well-known from home, South Panola knew sit alone as the best team in the around the state of Georgia for that they would have to show the country when they knew they their football history. The school Packers why they were one of the were returning a lot of players had won three state top teams in the country. The heading into the new season. championships and also won the Packers opened up the game with Despite returning a really good 2015 National Championship. a 83-yard drive which would end roster, South Panola knew they South Panola knew that they in seven points. had a lot of obstacles to overcome; could not view this team as just At first, South Panola struggled mainly, a lot of tough teams on an ordinary opponent. to move the ball against the their schedule. One of those The Tigers would face off Packers defense and almost teams would be the Colquitt against the Packers in week two started their opening drive with a Batesville & Beyond 27

three and out but a personal foul called on the Packers defensive tackle DeRhyan Arnold on Lee Self would give them a first down.

Four plays later, South Panola faked a punt and Kendrick Market would take the ball into the end zone for a 27 yard touchdown. That led up to South Panola scoring 30 unanswered points including an 80-yard pick six by Market to make the score 30-7 with five minutes left in the first half.

The Packers were able to find Pader once more to make the score 30-14 but 16 seconds later, Qyendairs Griffin would take off for a 75-yard touchdown to make his third trip into the endzone. South Panola would end up leading at halftime by a score of 38-21.

Colquitt County fans could not believe what they were witnessing, but they simply became another victim in the way of South Panola’s success story. South Panola continued to lay points on the board and would beat the Packers by a score of 65-35. In this game, Colquitt County broke multiple records, but they definitely didn’t want them to be in their record books.

The Tigers’ 65 points would be the most

28 Batesville & Beyond

scored against the Packers’ in team history. It was all too easy for South Panola’s offense to get the job done.

“I remember we had one series early in the game and our coaches could not believe they were trying to play up tempo and spread and we were like ‘Man, who did they think they were playing?’ I think I threw only six passes that game and everything else came on the ground.”

If there is one thing you need to know about any South Panola offense, is that they like to run the ball ... a lot. You can check out any South Panola Tiger’s team throughout their history and you will definitely notice how much running the ball has been a cornerstone for their offenses.

The Packers made note of that after South Panola finished the night with 439 rushing yards including two 100-plus rushers with Qyendairs Griffin gaining 276 rushing yards and six touchdowns and Kendrick Market with 117 rushing yards and a touchdown.

South Panola would continue their road trip out of the state of Mississippi by traveling to Memphis, Tennessee, to face off against the

Memphis University Owls and demolish them on their own turf with a final score of 39-2. After the past two weeks facing off against teams out of state, it was finally time for the Tigers to continue playing football in their own state. For the next two months, South Panola just got better and better. They would outscore their next eight opponents by a combined score of 394-53. Something like that is just totally unreal when it comes to high school football.

Although South Panola’s stretch was dominant, there was still one team in the nation that stood in between them and a national championship. That team was De La Salle from Concord, California. Both teams were undefeated, but De La Salle was No. 1 for USA Today for most of the year. Heading into the playoffs, South Panola knew that they would need to keep their momentum up and did exactly that. They would defeat and again outscore their 3 opponents by a score of 12320 and would end up playing a familiar foe, the Meridian Wildcats in the State Championship game.

Meridian had always been a thorn in South

Panola’s side. Most South Panola Tiger fans will never forget the heartbreaking loss they saw against them in the 2008 state championship game that would ultimately end the third longest high school football game winning streak of all time at 89. South Panola fans wanted revenge, and there was no better way to do it than in a state championship game. However, head coach Lance Pogue did not feel the same way.

“We never talked about any of that.” Pogue said. “Our focus was to be the best team we could be.”

The game was tight in the first quarter with both teams still tied 0-0. Defense played an early factor for both teams and they both showed everyone that neither was going to back down without a fight. Throughout the game, one person stood out from that South Panola defense and that was Tony Conner.

Conner was already having a really good year as a starting player on a stouted defensive team and what made it even more impressive was that he was only a sophomore. He would have two huge interceptions in the second quarter which helped South Panola to strike

first in the ball game with a five yard touchdown from Lee Self to Qyendairs Griffin.

South Panola would enter halftime only up 7-0 against the Wildcats. In the second half, the tigers came out of the gates jumping.

The Tigers would force the Wildcats to punt on the first drive of the second half and Griffin was able to find the endzone again to give South Panola a 14-0 lead with six minutes to go in the third quarter. Meridian would finally answer back with their first score of the game with a seven yard rushing touchdown to make the score 14-7 with less than three minutes to go in the third quarter.

On the next drive, Kendrick Market would jump under center as a quarterback and found Griffin for a 70 yard pass which would later result in a four yard touchdown from Tony Conner.

“That’s the way to answer them,” Pogue told the offense when they exited the field.

South Panola would hold a 21-7 lead in the third quarter. There was still a lot of football to play, but the tigers would not let the foot off the brakes. With six minutes to go in the forth, Griffin would seal the deal with an 11-yard

touchdown and South Panola would go on to win by a score of 28-7. It was a moment that most Tiger fans will never forget. Both sides of the ball played extremely well and that helped South Panola gain in what would be their ninth state championship. However, the question still remains, was South Panola’s playoff performance enough for them to capture the #1 spot? That question was answered as soon as the high school football season was over.

“I remember hearing that our coach got a phone call and all the football players were told to report to the high school gymnasium and we were told that USA Today and Maxpreps had ranked us No. 1 in the nation and declared us national champions.”

The 2010 South Panola team will always be remembered as the best football team ever in the history of Mississippi football. The team was also given its very own state holiday called South Panola Day which is recognized annually on January 26th. This team overcame all obstacles and did something that many schools can't say they have done, and that is to be national champions.

Batesville & Beyond 29

FOOD WORTH A

ROAD TRIP

BY ALLEN BREWER

W

hile Panola County is full of delicious restaurants, some are known for attracting customers to make a small road trip. These destinations are recommended for their unique cuisine “worth the drive.”

THE CRAB LEG CRAWL

Fresh seafood can be hard to find this far from the ocean, but The Pier Seafood and Steaks of Sardis has a great selection of seafood. Restaurant owner Kathryn Simmons said the Alaskan king crab legs are always in demand.

“That is one of our best products,”

30 Batesville & Beyond

THE CRAB LEG CRAW

L

Alaskan king crab legs are a favorite at The Pier in Sardis

Simmons said. “We are one of the only places around that sells them.”

Simmons said the crab legs are delivered fresh every Thursday via delivery truck. Customers can purchase crab legs with a steak or by themselves with two sides, such as mashed potatoes or corn on the cob. The legs also go great with the house-made hushpuppies.

The Pier is located around 10.9 miles away from the Square and only takes about a 14-minute drive via car. It also stands out among visitors and locals alike due to is located near the Lower Lake.

WONDERFUL WINGS

Wings and More of Batesville offers delicious chicken wings on the fly for travelers looking for something spicy. While the restaurant also sells hamburgers and sandwiches, owner Cynthia Cox said wings are the best seller.

“We sell lots of wings in a day,” Cox said. “Our customers go wild over our many flavors.”

Wings and More has more than 25 different wing flavors, including lemon pepper, honey hot and garlic parmesan. Those not in the mood for wings can also order burgers made from ground beef dressed to their

WONDERFUL WING

S

Wing lovers can choose multiple flavors at Wings and More off Curtis Road in Batesville

SC

windoll onstruction

Batesville & Beyond 31

choice or catfish.

Some people order a whole platter to go, especially during football season.

The restaurant is about 12 minutes or 8.8 miles from the Batesville Square on Curtis Road.

“Come on down, and you will not regret the country drive,” Cox said.

“With their combined knowledge, it just worked. We are also blessed to have the right people in the right places.

While Redwine said their restaurant does not have a specific specialty more popular than the others, they have gotten a lot of praise for their royal red shrimp. They also serve other down-home cooking such as banana pudding.

A PERFECT PLACE IN POPE The fastest route to the cafe There is another little takes about 12 minutes or restaurant that rocks, literally. around 7,1 miles from The Pope Country Cafe is a Batesville Square via I-51. It unique restaurant with its sits in the center of Pope, and oversized rocking chair on the customers can easily spot the front porch. It is also known novelty rocking chair. for its delicious food and Those are just a few of the customer service. places customers think are “My wife has always been worth the drive. Next time you an avid cook and was fortunate are looking for a place to catch enough to hire some of the a bit, consider going the extra best local cooks to the area,” mile for a great dining said co-owner David Redwine. experience.

32 Batesville & Beyond

A PERFECT PLACE IN

POPE

Homemade yellow cake with chocolate icing was the cake of the day on a recent visit to Pope Country Cafe.

TAILGATE RECIPE SAVORY SANDWICHES FOR TAILGATE FUN

This recipe for “Ultimate Steak & Mushroom Sandwiches” from Laurie McNamara’s “Simply Scratch” (Avery) can be prepared at home and then put together at the stadium lot. These delicious sandwiches can be easily cut into small pieces and served as slider-type appetizers.

2 tablespoons red wine vinegar 1 cup grape-seed or olive oil

In a 1-pint glass jar, combine all the ingredients.

Secure the lid and shake until combined. Let stand for 30 minutes before using. Refrigerate any unused dressing.

Ultimate Steak & Mushroom Sandwiches Place the steak on a small rimmed baking sheet Makes 4 6-inch sandwiches and freeze for 20 minutes so it’s firm and partially frozen. Holding a sharp knife on a slight angle, going 11⁄4 to 11⁄2 pounds rib-eye steak against the grain of the meat, slice into very thin 1 cup Balsamic Herb Dressinade (see below) strips.

1 tablespoon unsalted butter In a large resealable bag or a medium bowl, 1 tablespoon olive oil marinate the steak in the dressinade for 30 minutes.

1 large sweet onion, halved and thinly sliced On a griddle or in a 12-inch cast-iron skillet, melt 1 pint cremini mushrooms, cleaned and sliced Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper the butter with the olive oil over medium-high heat.

Add the onion, toss and spread out in an even layer. (optional) Once the onion starts to soften, add the mushrooms.

1⁄2 cup crumbled blue cheese Cook until soft and slightly caramelized.

11⁄2 cups grated provolone cheese Using tongs, remove the steak from the 4 6-inch hoagie bungs, split marinade (allow excess to drip back into the bag or Mayonnaise bowl) and place on the griddle, toss with the onions and mushrooms, then spread in an even layer. Allow Balsamic Herb Dressinade the steak to sear, forming a crust, for 4 to 6 minutes, 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil or 1 teaspoon dried then flip and cook for 4 to 6 minutes more.

Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, if desired, 2 teaspoons chopped fresh rosemary, or 1 teaspoon and sprinkle with the blue cheese and provolone. dried 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme, or 1⁄2 teaspoon Turn off the heat on the griddle or remove the skillet from the heat and cover with a domed lid or tented dried foil to allow the cheese to melt quickly.

3⁄4 teaspoon kosher salt Toss one last time so the cheese is mixed 1⁄4 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper throughout. Divide the steak mixture among the 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard crusty hoagie buns. Serve immediately.

6 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

TAILGATING PARTY TIPS Tailgating involves hosting a gathering with friends or family from the back of a vehicle.This social gathering typically features an informal meal and refreshments.Tailgating usually occurs in the parking lot of a sports stadium, but it also is commonly seen preceding concerts or other large events.

Tailgating gets its name from the fact that people set up chairs around the rear of the vehicle, or actually sit on the tailgate itself. For many people, tailgating is a lifestyle, and they’ve honed their skills to deliver parking lot parties that are tough to rival.

With some advanced planning and know-how, anyone can throw a successful and memorable tailgate party.

Follow these tips to get started.

• Create a mobile tailgating kit.Turn a toolbox into an essentials collection for tailgating. Fill a metal toolbox with necessary gear, such as barbecue basics, bottle openers, condiments, trash bags, zip-baggies, and paper towels.Then simply grab the toolbox and set out for the tailgate party location.

• Prep the night before.You’ll want to get the best spot in the lot, so do the bulk of the work the night before the event. Pre-chill beverages so they will stay at the right temperature in the cooler. Sort out recipe items and ensure that all the food staples are well secured and ready to put in the cooler. Pre-purchase ice so it’s ready to go.

• Pack smart. Store plates and silverware in a plastic bin with a lid. Dirty dishes and other soiled cooking tools can be kept securely inside and toted home for washing.

• Choose menu items wisely.

Keep in mind that foods that are portable and eaten out of hand are best at tailgates. This limits the trash and how many utensils will need to be discarded or washed.

Burgers, hot dogs, kabobs, sliders/ sandwiches, and the like are ideal tailgate foods.

• Label coolers. Make sure guests know where to find the items they need. Label coolers to differentiate between beverages and other supplies. Freeze water bottles to use in place of ice in the coolers so that the cold water can be consumed as the bottles thaw.

• Create a warming oven. Coolers insulate warm or cold items. Grilled foods or foods cooked at home can be kept warm until eaten.

• Establish a washing station. A clean, rinsed out, spigot-style laundry detergent container can be transformed into a washing station.

The most important tip is to make sure others can find your location.

Tie balloons to the car so that guests can spot it in the crowd.Then have fun before the game or concert.

Batesville & Beyond 33

SPOTTED

1

2

3

1: Chuck, "The Skin Man" Palmer showing off his pork rinds at the farmer's market.

2: Jennifer Loper of Water Valley presenting her vegetables at the farmer's market.

3: Doug Pepper is proud to sell his tomatoes.

34 Batesville & Beyond

PHOTOS BY GLENNIE POU

Shop Local

Favorite

finds

Blossoms

Hat $26 Antelope booties $178

KUT jeans $90

Leopard dress $165

The Candle and Gift Shoppe Beaded Earrings $25

HOBO Card Case $65

HOBO Tote $318

HOBO "Lauren" Wallet $138

Gold Hoops $15

Tortoise Shell Coffee Mug $38 Batesville & Beyond 35

Marketplace Batesville and Beyond • 662-267-1451

Hiring: Save-A-Lot in Batesville looking for FT experienced Meat Manager. PTO, and more included. 2+YRS exp. req. Apply in person at 220 HWY 6 WEST

Help Wanted. Will be accepting applications for Production Workers, Machine Operators and Maintenance Technicians. MondayThursday. From 1:004:00pm. In the main office. 10646 Hwy 51.

Oakland, MS 38948.

No phone calls, please.

Eat well, live well.

Ajinomoto.

Domino’s Pizza now hiring Delivery Experts and Customer Service Representatives. Come in store between 2pm5pm Monday-Friday to fill out an application.

662-563-5600 H&L Underbursh, Yardwork & Much More. 662-473-4974.

662-714-0132 Heart of Hospice.

Volunteers needed.

Contact Abbi Embrey today for more information. (662)7827868 Read Romans Chapter 6 every day. Be obedient to what it says until Jesus sends for your soul. Rent to Own Buildings. Quality Buildings at Affordable Prices. (662) 417-1256

36 Batesville & Beyond

QUITMAN COUNTY HEALTH & REHAB IS NOW HIRING RN’S, QA NURSE, MEDICAL RECORDS NURSE LPN’S AND CERTIFIED NURSING ASSISTANTS FOR ITS 60 BED NURSING FACILITY. WE WOULD LOVE TO HAVE YOU AS PART OF OUR TEAM. IF INTERESTED, PLEASE CONTACT SAMATHA CRUMBLY OR BARBARA LENARD NESBIT FOR AN INTERVIEW. 662-3263690 blenard1@att.net TRAILER WORLD Goosenecks, Equipment, Stock & Enclosed Trailers.

Mid-South’s Largest Selection. SOUTHLAND CO. Batesville, MS 662563-9428 A & A Care at Heart Please let us provide you with great service & companionship to your loved ones! Let us give your loved ones the best care at heart in the comfort of their own homes. Call (662)8161589 Batesville Cabinet Company. Custom solutions, beautiful finish. NOW HIRING SHOP LABORERS. Please apply in person, Monday-Friday 8:00am11:00am 22981 Highway 6 East, Batesville CDL Class A Drivers D&S Haulers, LLC Water Valley, MS Requirements: •23+ years of age •2 years driving experience •no more than 2 violations

on license All dry van freight, no touch. Home base in North MS- Be home weekly! 401-K, Health/Dental/Vision offered. Starting pay .41-.43/mile with bonus. $1000 Hiring bonus!

Call 662-473-1100 Stonewater Adolescent Recovery Center in Oxford, MS is seeking LPN’s to join our team! Full-Time and PRN positions available.

To apply please contact Sandy Lott, D.O.N. at 662-259-8474.

Landmark of Desoto Now Hiring •MDS Nurse LPN or RN •RN Treatment Nurse •Admissions Nurse •3-11 Nurse •Weekend LPN •CNAs all shifts •Dietary Apply in person or send a resume to LandmarkofDesoto@ asimgt.com 3068 Nail Road West Horn Lake, MS 38637 662-280-1219 ColorWorks MachineProduction Operator.

All shifts. Benefits after 90 days. Steady work available. Call 423-5435063 x312 to arrange a walk thru. Start the following day.

Groundskeeper Needed Part-Time 8am-12pm MondayFriday Must pass background check & drug test Pick up application: 103 Lester Street, Batesville Email: skyview@ tescoproperties.com Call: (662)267-1234

Evans Sand & Gravel •Clay Gravel •Dirt •Wash Rock •Fill Sand •Masonry Sand MDOT Approved We Deliver!

1715 River Road (EAst of Hwy 51 Between Batesville & Sardis) Call Mike or Jason at 662487-3854

PEACHES Cherry Creek Orchard Opening MidMay Call:662-489-7783 Also Taking Pre-Orders: •Purple Hull Peas •Tomatoes •Blackberries •Watermelons Call:662760-0672 or 662-4897783 The Town of Sardis is accepting applications for a •Full-Time Public Works Director with managerial/supervisory experience.Preferably a Certified Water Operator (Class-D)and Certified Waste Water Operator (Class-1) Applications can be obtained from our website or City Hall.

Applications will be accepted until position is filled. Applications can be dropped off at: City Hall 114 West Lee Sardis,MS 38666 8:00am-5:00pm 3BR/2BA Houses Fireplace & 2 car garage $850/month + deposit Beautiful setting outside of Batesville SP School District Call: 817-3042276 Mobile Homes For Rent 2BR/2BA, Great location, super nice!!

South Panola School District Call: 817-3042276

Patton’s Home Remodleing •Painting•Remodeling •Sun Decks•Additions •Room Additions•Plumbing •Electrical•Shingles •Metal Roofing •Mobile Home Repairs •Privacy & Chain Link Fences FREE ESTIMATES State Licensed & Insured 662852-9720 3 Lots in Deerfield Estates Coldwater, MS. 1 - 2.5 acre lot. 2 - 1.5 acre lots. Can be combined. No mobile homes. $24,888 each.

Call Owner at: 662429-8888 For More Information Domino’s Pizza now hiring Delivery Experts and Customer Service Representatives.

EVERYONE STARTS AT $8/HR. Come in store between 2pm-5pm, Monday-Friday to fill out an application. 662563-5600 QUITMAN COUNTY HEALTH & REHAB IS NOW HIRING RN’S, QA NURSE, MEDICAL RECORDS NURSE LPN’S AND CERTIFIED NURSING ASSISTANTS FOR ITS 60 BED NURSING FACILITY. WE WOULD LOVE TO HAVE YOU AS PART OF OUR TEAM. IF INTERESTED, PLEASE CONTACT SAMATHA CRUMBLY OR BARBARA LENARD NESBIT FOR AN INTERVIEW. 662-3263690 blenard1@att.net

Batesville & Beyond 37

38 Batesville & Beyond