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DECEMBER 2013 / JANUARY 2014

December 2013 / January 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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INVITATION TUPELO | December 2013 / January 2014

December 2013 / January 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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Northeast Mississippi Real Estate Guide 2537 Cressant - Cedar Point

912 Birch - Wildwood

662-842-8283

www.trirealestate.net

ELLEN SHORT 662-231-5520 ellen@trirealestate.net

600 W Main, Tupelo, MS

MLS# 13-1649 • $109,900 • 3 Bedroom/2 Bath

BEA LUCKETT 662-231-1402 bealuckett@trirealestate.net

Move-in Ready • MLS# 13-2823 • 3 Bedroom/2 Bath

MARK PRINCE has served hundreds of clients in North Mississippi for over 20 years, and will put all of his

experience and skills to work for you. Mark enjoys getting to know his clients, and will develop a relationship that allows him to truly understand your needs as a buyer or seller. You can count on Mark as a trusted advisor who will handle your real estate transaction effectively.

• National Association of Realtors - Member • Mississippi Association of Realtors - Member • Northeast Mississippi Board of Realtors - Member • Zillow Premier Agent

• Leadership Mississippi executive committee and program graduate • CDF’s Jim Ingram Leadership Program graduate • Tupelo Kiwanis Club • Tupelo Country Club Board of Governors

For more information on these or ANY commercial property, please contact Mark Prince 662-871-1971 mobile • 662-842-3844 office • mark@tmhomes.com • 210 E. Main St., Downtown Tupelo

119 Executive Drive, Saltillo 7,350 SF - 3,000 Showroom, 4,000 Warehouse & 350 Office space MLS# 13-1875

Beautiful Waterway Home

4 bedoom, 3 bath home with breathtaking views of the Tenn-Tom Waterway. A screened porch and pier await you with plenty of room for entertaining. MLS# 13-3241.

$285,000

KEVIN KNIGHT

662-401-2913 mobile | 662-842-3844 office kevin@tmhomes.com | 210 E. Main St., Downtown Tupelo

1446 Columbine

Springlake: A must see! Beautiful home on large corner lot, professionally landscaped, totally redone, new kitchen, custom wood molding, all wood floors, 2 master suites down, amazing pool with fountain and wine bar, pool house with bath, stone fireplace, cooking center, covered porches with stained concrete. $775,000. MLS# 13-3093.

Call Brenda Spencer today for your private viewing.

662-231-8909 mobile • 662-842-3844 office spencer@tmhomes.com • 210 E. Main St., Downtown Tupelo

One Owner Custom Built Home CHANDA COSSITT

4 bedrooms, 3.5 bath home on a beautiful 1.7 acre lot in Wendover subdivision. This home features an awesome Man Cave that is detached from the home with 1200 sq. ft. include a bedroom, bath and covered deck. Beautiful setting right across from Tupelo Country Club. $369,000. MLS# 13-2828.

662-871-7222 mobile • 662-842-3844 office • chanda@tmhomes.com • 210 E. Main St., Downtown Tupelo

Brenda Spencer

December 2013 / January 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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IN THIS ISSUE

DECEMBER 2013 / JANUARY 2014

DECEMBER 2013 / JANUARY 2014

FEATURES 19 Merrily Ever After Johnnie and Gerald Creely, who wed in May, celebrate their life together this holiday season.

44 Picture This COVER PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF ANHEUSER-BUSCH

A new pictorial history book, Tupelo, was put together by several local historians who tasked themselves with preserving the past.

57 Best Show on Dirt Rodeo performers and rodeo fans gather in Tupelo Jan. 25-26 for the 20th-annual Northeast Mississippi Championship Rodeo.

64 Holiday Homecoming Musicians Paul Thorn and Mac McAnally perform together for the first time Dec. 20 at BancorpSouth Arena.

EVENTS 22 24 26 28 48 50 52 54 66 68 70

An Evening with Laura Bush Midtown District Christmas Party NAFIC Golf Tournament Beatles Tribute Concert THS Football Playoffs Shakerag Half Marathon Christmas Lighting Taste of Tupelo Downtown Holiday Open House Color Run Disney on Ice

ANNOUNCEMENT 16 Kidd & Christian

32 ’Tis the Travel Season

Destinations offer visitors winter escapes within driving distance. Visit St. Louis (pictured above); tour the Alpine village of Helen, Ga.; hit the slopes at a ski resort in Alabama; ride the North Pole Limited train in Tennessee; and see bald eagles in Arkansas state parks.

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INVITATION TUPELO | December 2013 / January 2014

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50 PARK PLACE

Creating Beautiful Smiles

D E N TA L

68 DEPARTMENTS 10 12 72 78 80

Letter From the Publisher What’s Happening Out and About In Season Tupelo Spirit

Ken Goodwin DMD Christine Rayburn DMD Amy Scopel DMD Family dentistry • Implants Cosmetic dentistry • Conscious sedation Crown and veneers in a day with CEREC

Open Monday - Friday 8-5 403 North 3rd St. Booneville, MS 38829 662-728-8171 • www.parkplacedentist.com December 2013 / January 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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INVITATION TUPELO | December 2013 / January 2014

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LETTER FROM

the publisher

PUBLISHER Rachel Malone West EDITOR Phil West DIRECTOR OF ADVERTISING Cindy Semmes MANAGING EDITOR Emily Welly ASSOCIATE MANAGING EDITOR Sonia Thompson EDITORIAL DESIGN Hallie M. Thomas, Emily R. Suber STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS Lisa Roberts, Joe Worthem STAFF WRITER Melanie Crownover ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS Trey Alexander, Alise M. Emerson, Sheena Hagemann, Leigh Lowery, Lynn McElreath, Mary Moreton, Moni Simpson AD DESIGN Becca Bailey, Paul Gandy, Zach Fields CONTRIBUTORS Faith Riley Dawson, Arlene Beard Norton, Kristi Sizemore, Shea Summers, Mike Weeks OFFICE MANAGER Hollie Hilliard

F

or my family, the holiday season is a time for remembering traditions. This year, with a 2-year-old child who is experiencing the holidays and understanding them for the first time, our family is creating new traditions. We’ve made a lot of ornaments out of paper, cotton balls, glue and markers for our tree, and it has never been more perfect.

One of my favorite traditions, which my grandmother started and my mother and I have carried on, is a holiday fruitcake-baking date. Just after Thanksgiving, out come the candied fruit, mixers, nuts, flour and sugar, and it’s time to make dozens of holiday cakes.

This month, we celebrate many different parts of holiday traditions both old and new. The stories of the people in this issue are unique, and the places we’ve featured are not too far away.

If an out-of-town getaway is what Santa has in mind for your family during the holiday break, take a peek at the nearby winter wonderlands on page 32. We found some great places that won’t break your budget and are sure to please both the young and the young at heart.

At this time of year, we’d also like to say a special thank you to our readers and our advertisers who support us faithfully month after month in order to make Invitation Tupelo a great community magazine.

We’ll be spending time with our families and friends this holiday season, and trust you will also. We’ll see you back here in February. We wish each of you a merry Christmas and a very happy New Year.

COPY EDITOR Kate Johnson DISTRIBUTION Donald Courtney ADVERTISING INFORMATION (662) 701-8070 ads@invitationtupelo.com MAIN OFFICE (662) 234-4008 To subscribe to one year (10 issues) of Invitation Tupelo, send payment of $50 to: P.O. Box 3192, Tupelo, MS 38802 or visit invitationtupelo.com to pay online.

To request a photographer at your event, obtain an event photo or purchase an announcement, email Hallie at hallielandonmarshall@gmail.com.

PLEASE RECYCLE THIS MAGAZINE

RACHEL M. WEST, PUBLISHER

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INVITATION TUPELO | December 2013 / January 2014

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WHAT’S HAPPENING December 15-February 15 A sampling of important, fun and interesting events in our area. For more events, visit facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

Mac and Paul concert Dec. 20

WINTER EVENTS Now through December 21 Toys for Tots Oren Dunn City Museum is an official drop-off location for Toys for Tots, sponsored by the Marine Corps Reserve. Bring new, unwrapped toys to Oren Dunn City Museum, 689 Rutherford Road at Ballard Park. Toys will go to children in this area.

Now through December 28 Toy Exhibit and Christmas Village Visit the Oren Dunn City Museum to look at vintage toys and Christmas decorations. For more information, call 662-841-6438.

Now through January 20 Public Ice Skating Ice skating is a great holiday activity for the whole family.

BancorpSouth Arena. For times and dates, visit bcsarena.com.

December 20 Second-Annual National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation Quote-Along Enjoy this classic Christmas movie along with a makeyour-own hot chocolate bar and a tacky holiday sweater contest. Tickets $10; $5 for students. Link Centre. For more information, call 662-690-4011.

January 6 Back-to-School Winter Olympics Healthworks! is hosting its own Winter Olympics for children. Participants will be part of an opening ceremony, make an edible Olympic torch, learn a bit of Russian and compete in versions of winter sports. Call Healthworks! at 662-377-KIDS for more information.

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INVITATION TUPELO | December 2013 / January 2014

EXHIBITS, SHOWS AND LIVE PERFORMANCES Now through December 31

January 17

Mosley & Johnson Music Exhibit

Ole Miss vs. Mississippi State Ice Hockey

The music exhibit features blues legends Sam Mosley and Bob Johnson, artists who made names for themselves with songwriting, singing and guitar playing. The exhibit will pay homage to the music and musicians. Tupelo Convention and Visitors Bureau. For more information, call 662-841-6521.

The Ole Miss Rebels play the Mississippi State Bulldogs in their first game of the new year. BancorpSouth Arena, 7:30 p.m.

December 13-15 Visit the monthly flea market and bi-monthly gun show at Tupelo Furniture Market. The flea market is in buildings 1 and 3, and the gun show is in building 5. For more information, call 662-842-4442.

Sponsored by the NMMC Resource Pool Team, the Winter Wonderland Pageant benefits Project Hope, an organization that battles heart disease, cancer and diabetes by offering educational programs and supporting patient assistance funds in northeast Mississippi. Admission $5; children 8 and under, free. Event takes place at the MultiPurpose Building on ICC’s Tupelo campus.

December 17-18

January 19

Scholastic Book Fair

Premier Bridal Show of North Mississippi

Hundreds of books in a variety of categories, school supplies and developmental products will be available to the public. BancorpSouth Arena; Dec. 17, noon-8 p.m.; Dec. 18, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

Premier Bridal Show connects north Mississippi brides with top wedding professionals. Tickets $15. BancorpSouth Arena, premierbridems.com.

Flea Market and Gun Show

December 20 Mac McAnally and Paul Thorn Concert

January 18 Project Hope Winter Wonderland Pageant

January 25 North Mississippi Symphony Orchestra presents Jason Vieaux

For the first time together, Mississippi native singersongwriters, Mac McAnally and Paul Thorn will play an intimate, acoustic performance. Tickets $25-45.

BancorpSouth Arena, 7:30 p.m. Read more about the concert on page 64.

The North Mississippi Symphony Orchestra presents Jason Vieaux on guitar, performing Joaquin Rodrigo’s passionate Concierto de Aranjuez. Link Centre.

December 22

Duck Hunter Shoots Angel

Disney Live: Three Classic Fairy Tales Disney Live: Three Classic Fairy Tales, an enchanted story featuring more than 25 Disney characters, comes to BancorpSouth Arena. Tickets $17-49. For more information, visit bcsarena.com.

January 30-February 1 This comedy, performed by Tupelo Community Theatre, tells the story of two Alabama duck-hunting brothers who think they have accidentally shot down an angel. Tickets $18 for adults; $6 for students. The Lyric; Jan. 30, 7:30 p.m.; Jan. 31, 7:30 p.m.; Feb. 1, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

ICC BASKETBALL January 6

ICC vs. Jones County Junior College Davis Event Center, ICC. Women’s basketball at 5:30 p.m.; men’s at 7:30 p.m.

January 9 ICC vs. Copiah Lincoln Community College Davis Event Center, ICC. Women’s basketball at 5:30 p.m.; men’s at 7:30 p.m.

January 16 ICC vs. Holmes Community College Davis Event Center, ICC. Women’s basketball at 6 p.m.; men’s at 8 p.m.

January 21 ICC vs. East Mississippi Community College Davis Event Center, ICC. Women’s basketball at 6 p.m.; men’s at 8 p.m.

January 30 ICC vs. Northeast Mississippi Community College Davis Event Center, ICC. Women’s basketball at 6 p.m.; men’s at 8 p.m.

February 6 ICC vs. Northwest Mississippi Community College Davis Event Center, ICC. Men’s basketball at 8 p.m.

December 2013 / January 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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INVITATION TUPELO | December 2013 / January 2014

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shley Noel Kidd and Charles Russell Christian were united in marriage on Aug. 31, 2013, at Monument Drive Baptist Church in Tupelo, Miss. Brother Byron James performed the ceremony.

The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Reed Kidd of Tupelo. She is the granddaughter of Mr. Archie Kidd and the late Janice Kidd of Tupelo; Mr. and Mrs. Charles Owen of Mooreville, Miss.; and the late Mr. Larry Manning of Senatobia, Miss.

The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Winford Christian Jr. of Auburn, Miss.

He is the grandson of the late Mr. and Mrs. Charles Winford Christian of Auburn, Mr. Lee Rush Robbins of Auburn, and Mr. and Mrs. Tommy Russell Wood of Tupelo.

Nuptial music was provided by pianist Dr. Darwin Brooks and violinist Jonathon Gilley.

The ceremony was photographed by Brook Dean Photography and Sylvia Wedel.

Given in marriage by her parents and escorted by her father, the bride wore her grandmother’s diamond ring and necklace.

Tanner Lauren Kidd, sister of the bride, attended the bride as her maid of honor.

Bridesmaids were Kate Asa Springer, Kenzie Estes Bland, Audrey Anna Roebuck, April Dozier and Kelli Elkins Davis. The flower girl was Josie Kelly.

The best man was Jeremy Ryan Haynes.

The groomsmen were Charles Winford Christian, James Farris, Brandon Graves, Kraig Simpson and Jonathon Yant. The ring bearer was Manning Stone.

Following the ceremony, the bride’s parents hosted a reception at The Dance Studio, where guests enjoyed food and music. The bride’s cake featured layers of chocolate cake iced with vanilla butter cream and peanut butter filling.

The groom’s table boasted a variety of pies with a Mississippi State University theme. As the couple exited, guests rang the newlyweds out with cowbells.

After honeymooning in Jamaica, the couple is at home in Mooreville.

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INVITATION TUPELO | December 2013 / January 2014

& CHARLES RUSSELL CHRISTIAN

PHOTOGRAPHED BY BROOK DEAN PHOTOGRAPHY AND SYLVIA WEDEL

ASHLEY NOEL KIDD

SHARE YOUR EXCITING NEWS WITH AN

PHOTOGRAPHED BY SCOTT BURTON PHOTOGRAPHY

BRIDAL ANNOUNCEMENT

WEDDING HALF PAGE, $90: Includes one picture and 100-150 words.

FULL PAGE, $150: Includes three pictures and 200-300 words.

TWO PAGES, $275: Includes five pictures and 400-500 words.

ENGAGEMENT THIRD PAGE, $50: Includes one picture and 100-150 words.

For more information, please email Hallie at hallielandonmarshall@gmail.com.

Announcements are published year-round in the magazine.

The Bridal issue comes out on June 15.

December 2013 / January 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

Endocrine & Metabolic Disorders Institue, PLLC Phone: Fax:

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662.377.6275

662.377.6299

INVITATION TUPELO | December 2013 / January 2014

Jayant Dey, M.D., M.B.B.S. • Nancy Hooks, C.N.P. 910 Mary Vance Drive • Tupelo, Mississippi 38801

Newlyweds Johnnie and Gerald Creely celebrate their life together this holiday season.

by Melanie Crownover photographed by Peggy Grissom

J

ohnnie and Gerald Creely rock by the living room fireplace in side-by-side recliners, picking at each other like an old married couple. They finish each other’s sentences as if they’ve been together forever, all while laughing and flirting like a couple of school children.

“When they call us the old married couple they’re right on both counts,” Gerald, 75, said, as his wife, 67, shakes her head and laughs.

“But we’re really old newlyweds.”

He calls their meeting divine providence.

Johnnie, a widow, owned a beauty shop when the woman who cut Gerald’s mother’s hair died and he began bringing her to Johnnie’s salon.

The pair had somehow only met in passing even though they’d both attended Harrisburg Baptist Church for years and Johnnie’s son and son-in-law hunted with Gerald’s nephew.

Though he says he knew he would marry her the first day he walked into the salon, it took the lifelong bachelor a couple of years of taking his mother to the salon to get up the nerve to ask her out on a date. He soon was Johnnie’s steady beau.

It was a lifestyle change for Gerald, who

December 2013 / January 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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“i’ve never been so harassed about anything like not getting married, but it was worth it because i got the best.” - gerald creely

Johnnie and Gerald Creely were married in May in a lakeside wedding near a replica of Gerald’s grandfather’s 1930s country store, pictured above.

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INVITATION TUPELO | December 2013 / January 2014

had invested his life in his career with the highway department, owning rental properties and caring for his mother and other elderly family members. Now he was taking trips to Johnnie’s grandchildren’s activities, from Madrigals and piano recitals to soccer and softball games, staying up late for the second half of a game or movie despite work the next day and – his favorite new activity – taking catnaps.

Two years later he popped the question.

“I think my kids said yes before Mama did because I was worried we were both too set in our ways from being alone,” Johnnie said.

“There’s a joke about this man who prays to win the lottery. I felt like God was saying, ‘I sent him to you. Buy the ticket.’”

The couple wed in May in an outdoor ceremony by a lake on Gerald’s property. A reception for 230 guests near the replica of his grandfather’s 1930s country store followed.

The groom slyly gave the thumbs up sign behind Johnnie’s back when he kissed his bride.

“I’ve never been so harassed about anything like not getting married, but it was worth it because I got the best. Our covenant is sound, and we can plow around the stumps as they come because we have enough experience behind us to know to make the best of life and thank God for it,” Gerald said.

Now the pair patiently awaits another milestone: moving into their first house together. They designed a one-story, primitivestyle, 3,000-square-foot home that features cypress wood outside and exposed beams inside. It has a large master bedroom, two extra rooms for the grandchildren, a sunroom and two porches.

Gerald had hoped to be living there by Christmas, but weather caused delays, and they now expect to move in later this winter.

“Who wants to move at Christmas anyway?” Johnnie said. “There’s [Madrigal] Singe Feaste and The Nutcracker and the kids’ church program to go to. Then breakfast at my daughter’s Christmas morning, and everyone is here that afternoon to open presents before we go to have dinner with your brother…”

Gerald smiles, rocking contentedly.

December 2013 / January 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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events An Evening with Laura Bush View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

The Health Care Foundation of North Mississippi hosted former first lady Laura Bush as keynote speaker at the Nov. 18 Celebrating HealthWorks! dinner, held to recognize five years of success and continued support for the children’s health education center.

Gunner and Anne Marie Goad

Jacob and Rachel Thomas

Sherry and Joe Reppert

Deborah Pugh, Marsha Tapscott, Genie Alice Causey, Scott Costello, Leslie Geoghegan and Patsey Gray

Jean and Edward Hill

Emily Oxford and Holly Whitehead

1008 COMMONWEALTH BLVD. TUPELO, MS

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INVITATION TUPELO | December 2013 / January 2014

Shane and Katrina Hooper

Mike Clayborne and Tony Poss

Angela and Lexie Crafton

Christi Littlejohn and Jeannie Doler

photographed by Shea Summers

Jim Johnson, John Hall and Bart Aguirre

Michael and Sarah McLellan

Mary and Cary Childs

Jimmy and Nancy Brown Milam with Daintry and Mike Thomas

Bill and Sunny Waters with Chuck and Sue Imbler

Steve and Beverly Blaylock

Mallie, Carrol Trent and Trentice Imbler

Laura Bush

Ruth-Ann Morgan, Lillian Allen, Caitlyn Bouldin and McLennan Allen

December 2013 / January 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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photographed by Lisa Roberts

events Midtown District Christmas Party View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

Retailers in Tupelo’s new Midtown District held a Christmas party to kick off holiday shopping. The area includes stores between Industrial Road and Varsity Drive, and it became an official district in October.

Stephanie and Neil May

Molly Bass, Nina Barnes and Diane Patterson

Pat Fishel and Betty Moore

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Tootie Murray, Alice Rogers, Cathy Chase and Carol Flowers

Kelly Holcomb with Laura and Melody Asters

Gina Petty and Brenda Buchanan

INVITATION TUPELO | December 2013 / January 2014

Carrie Bridges and Beverly Goddard

Jade Allyn Buse and Danielle Crutchfield

Sally Amos and Teresa Gregory

Joyce Chrisman and Karen Costello

December 2013 / January 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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photographed by Lisa Roberts

events NAFIC Golf Tournament View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

The Mississippi chapter of the National Association of Fraternal Insurance Counselors held a golf tournament Nov. 7 at Big Oaks Golf Club. It included a putting contest and lunch. The tournament is a charity event with proceeds benefiting Regional Rehab Center.

David Gable, Joe Young, Matt Baker and Chase Hill

Alan Bank, Jack Crowell, Garrett Emerson and Callie Everett

Justin Pritchard, Jim Runnels and Preston Coats

John Michael Marley and Trey Belk

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Russ WiIson, Jeremy Swindle and Bill Donald

Parrish and Rachel Potts with Trey Trapp and Paul Saylors

INVITATION TUPELO | December 2013 / January 2014

Gary Birch and James Ellis

Bernard Culver and James King

Connie’s

821 S Gloster St Tupelo, MS 38801 (662) 842-7260

Chicken

OPEN: Mon - Sat 6 am – 8:30 pm Sun 7 am – 2 pm Family owned & operated.

In business for over 37 years & voted Tupelo’s Best Fried Chicken.

Specializing in Corrective Haircolor 144 South Thomas Spanish Village Court Suite 101-6 Tupelo, MS 38801

662-680-4506 December 2013 / January 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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events Rain: A Tribute to the Beatles View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

The musical Rain: A Tribute to the Beatles was performed Nov. 6 at BancorpSouth Arena. The production, featuring two hours of Beatles music performed live on stage, ran on Broadway and has toured nationally for several years.

Karen and Joe Geddie

Gail Mattox, Christia McKay and Debra Byrd

Rain: A Tribute to the Beatles

Tricia Baur, Courtney Holcomb, Cheryl Henning and Shari Neely

Jake Horton and Mark Hildenbrand with Rhonda, Craig and Charlie Horton

Robin and Mimi McGraw, Scott and Annette Reed, John Blakey, Betty Lee Marshall, Belvia and Pete Poland, Judith and Lex Jackson

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INVITATION TUPELO | December 2013 / January 2014

photographed by Lisa Roberts

Merce Klemann and Mary Tudor

Dorie and Donnie Kisner

Suanja, Mick and Cy Atherton

Sheila Johnston, Annelle Jones and Ricky Johnston December 2013 / January 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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SHOP WEST POINT! CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS AT THE POINT!

This Christmas you definitely want to make West Point one of your shopping destinations while looking for that special Chrismtas Gift. You will find numerous antique shops, the perfect gift for a fan of the great outdoors, clothing, one of a kind handcrafted items, unique Christmas decorations and that must have for the person on your list who loves to entertain. While shopping in West Point take a break for a bite to eat in any of our local restaurants.

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INVITATION TUPELO | December 2013 / January 2014

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Travel Season

Visit these nearby destinations to experience winter without leaving the South.

by Melanie Crownover

njoy a snow-covered ski slope, a train bound for the North Pole and other festive getaways close to home.

EXPLORE AN ALPINE VILLAGE If you can’t afford a winter trip to Europe to explore the Alps this year, try booking an escape to nearby Helen, Ga., instead.

This area, steeped in the history of the Cherokee and the gold rush, got a makeover in the 1960s, when the townspeople transformed their home into an Alpine village complete with cobblestone sidewalks and storefronts decorated as period German cottages. The quaint town is now one of the top tourist destinations in the state.

“The hiking trails, waterfalls and wineries are a few of the main reasons people come back here, besides Oktoberfest,” said Tracie Howell, media relations representative from the HelenWhite County Convention and Visitors Bureau. “That 2-mile-long village makes it easy to walk anywhere, and people love the historic mountain feel. It’s a gorgeous place to be.”

Indeed, there is more to Helen than its Old World Deutsch ambience. Try your hand at prospecting at Gold N’ Gem Grubbin’ or Dukes Creek Mines. Take a trip to the Folk Pottery Museum of Northeast Georgia or The

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INVITATION TUPELO | December 2013 / January 2014

Willows Pottery, and then paint some pieces of your own at Fancy Doodle Art and Wine House. Take the children for a ride through Helen with the Alpine Carriage Company, and stop off at the Black Forest Bear Park and Reptile Exhibit – home to several bear species, including the Syrian brown, Himalayan and grizzly. Visit the Babyland General Hospital to watch a Cabbage Patch Kid being “born,” or examine the 400 feet of track that make up the lifelike Alpine model railroad at Charlemagne’s Kingdom.

Visitors who long for a taste of the authentic Rhineland can find schnitzel, bratwurst and beer at the six German restaurants in town, including Bodensee and Hofbrauhaus Restaurant and G.I. Germany Pub. There is also a variety of non-German fare in the area.

When it comes to staying in Helen, securing a cabin with one of the dozens of rental companies in the area is the most popular choice. A-1 Vacation Rentals and Cabin Rentals of Helen are known as relaxing retreats with views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and Lucille’s Mountaintop Inn and Sylvian Valley Lodge are two of the top bed-and-breakfasts in the area.

For more information on a vacation in Helen, visit helenga.org or call 706-878-2181.

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF ALPINE HELEN-WHITE COUNTY CVB

Hit the road to enjoy wintertime in the authentic-feeling Alpine village of Helen, Ga. Enjoy the town’s picturesque cobblestone sidewalks and storefronts that replicate German cottages. Family-friendly activites include carriage rides, shopping and hiking.

December 2013 / January 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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SPOT A BALD EAGLE

AvonLea Assisted Living 2429 Lawndale Drive Tupelo, MS 38801 662-840-6163 Fax: 662-842-4742 www.AvonLea-Community.com

Prentiss Street Baldwyn, MS 662.365.8087

Prentiss Street Baldwyn, MS 662.365.8087

Prentiss Street Baldwyn, MS 662.365.9876

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INVITATION TUPELO | December 2013 / January 2014

Late December through mid-February is the best time to see bald eagles in their natural wintering habitat in Arkansas, and the state parks have free programs available throughout the season to make the spectator sport easier for bird-watchers.

“Eagles naturally migrate here when the season in Alaska, Canada and the northern U.S. gets too cold, but most of our events started in the ’60s, when bald eagle habitats were declining, and we unknowingly created more while building area lakes,” said Elizabeth Bittner, park interpreter at Arkansas’ DeGray Lake Resort State Park. “Now we start getting inquiries about bald eagles around September, and they’re the No. 1 reason visitors come here in the winter.”

January is the best time to actually view one of the winged wonders as their activity and park programming crescendo. Pinnacle Mountain State Park just outside Little Rock offers Eagle Lake Cruises every Saturday during the month from 11 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. on Lake Maumelle, and there are a few weekendlong events across the state focused where the birds tend to migrate.

The Jan. 10-11 event at Petit Jean State Park in Morrilton offers the chance to explore Holla Bend National Wildlife Refuge in pursuit of an eagle sighting. Bull Shoals holds an event the same weekend with live avian presentations, lake tours, entertainment and guided bird walks in honor of the approximately 100 eagles spotted there annually.

The peak of eagle-watching season is the weekend of Jan. 24-26 at DeGray Lake Resort State Park with the 35th-annual Eagles et Cetera, the state’s oldest eagle-awareness event.

Attendees participate in tours to search for the birds, learn about conservation and falconry, examine live predatory birds and talk to a raptor rehabilitator.

Park rangers recommend dressing in layers for windy and cold weather for the tours, and don’t forget binoculars and cameras.

For more information on eagle-watching events, visit arkansasstateparks.com.

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF DEGRAY LAKE RESORT STATE PARK

Winter is the best time to travel to Arkansas to see the bald eagles that make the state their natural wintering habitat. In January, many Arkansas state parks offer free programs, from lake cruises to hikes, that allow visitors to view and learn about the majestic birds.

December 2013 / January 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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EVERYONE

NEEDS A HELPING HAND SOMETIMES

TAKE A TRAIN TO THE NORTH POLE

www.sittersllc.com www.sittersllc.com

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sitters@bellsouth.net sitters@bellsouth.net

INVITATION TUPELO | December 2013 / January 2014

Providing caregivers for Providing caregivers for families like yours for families like yours for over years. over 1010 years.

What child doesn’t dream of seeing Santa Claus at the North Pole? It’s an easy trip aboard the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum’s North Pole Limited in Chattanooga, Tenn., which has been bringing passengers to see Santa for the past 15 years.

During the hourlong train ride, full of singing and storytelling, the cars pass through a tunnel to the North Pole, where Santa climbs aboard to spend time with the riders.

Passengers with standard $24 tickets, who fill the majority of the train cars, spend a few minutes talking with Santa and posing for a

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF TENNESSE VALLEY RAILROAD MUSEUM

The North Pole Limited train, operated by the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum in Chattanooga, Tenn., takes young passengers on an hourlong ride to see Santa at the North Pole. For a complete railroad experience, guests can package their train ride with a stay at the historic Chattanooga Choo Choo hotel.

picture before settling in for chocolate milk and packaged cookies. Those who opt for the $48 ticket for Santa’s private car get a more intimate setting and leisurely visit with him, as well as hot chocolate and freshly baked cookies.

Families can pair a train trip with a stay at the historic Chattanooga Choo Choo hotel, built as a railroad terminal in 1908. In addition to the North Pole Limited package, other holiday deals include an elf workshop, elf tuck-in service or story time with the elves. Packages can also include tickets to local attractions such as Rock City’s seasonal Enchanted Garden of

Lights and the Model Railroad Museum.

In addition to the Chattanooga Choo Choo’s many restaurants, such as Station House or Dinner in the Diner, other hometown favorites are Sticky Fingers Barbecue, Riverside Catfish House, local dive Nikki’s Drive Inn restaurant and the community table service at Bea’s Restaurant.

The train station is not far from Hamilton Place Mall, the largest in Tennessee. Children love the nationally recognized Creative Discovery Museum, the Coolidge Park Antique Carousel, the Tennessee Aquarium and the Chattanooga Zoo. There are also several family-friend-

ly natural excursions nearby, from Ruby Falls, a 145-foot waterfall inside Lookout Mountain, to Cumberland Caverns and the country’s largest underground lake at The Lost Sea. The North Pole Limited runs from late November to Dec. 22 with two or three departures at 5:45 p.m., 7:30 p.m. and 9:15 p.m. on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Private car seats and earlier departures sell out quickly, but tickets are still available. Can’t make it this year? Tickets for the 2014 season can be purchased in February by phone at 423-894-8028 or through the hotel at choochoo.com.

December 2013 / January 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

37

“Where kids are welcome and parents can tag along!”

* * * A New

Kids Shoe Store * in Tupelo

*

319 1/2 South Gloster Street * Tupelo, MS 38801 *

662-350-3355

*

MEET ME IN ST. LOUIS The famous Budweiser Clydesdales traveled all the way to Tupelo this month for the Christmas parade. So why not take some time to visit them at their home in St. Louis?

Tours of the Anheuser-Busch Brewery include a trip to the famed horses’ stables, as well as stops along the way at the Brew House, cellar and packaging plant to see the whole brewing process. There’s a beer sampling opportunity at the tour’s end for of-age patrons and sodas for the younger crowd.

The adventure doesn’t have to end there.

Take a day to discover the family-friendly side of the city. There are 700 hands-on displays and a life-sized animatronic Tyrannosaurus rex at the St. Louis Science Center. The Magic House children’s museum features a three-story climbable beanstalk and patriotic karaoke in an Oval Office replica. More animals can be found at the St. Louis Zoo, the Endangered Wolf Center or the City Museum, which houses an aquarium and holds educational circus classes daily.

Or sample the city’s history: take a 630foot ride to the top of the Gateway Arch; trace the footsteps of Lewis and Clark at the Missouri History Museum; or see what’s left of the largest pre-Columbian Native American city north of Mexico at the Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site.

Local eats offered all around town include St. Louis-style thin-crust pizza, toasted ravioli and gooey butter cake.

Adults should check out the nightlife around the 42-acre Westport Plaza entertainment district; take a chance at one of the four St. Louis casinos; enjoy live blues in Soulard or a Broadway show at the Fabulous Fox Theatre; or cheer on the St. Louis Blues hockey team at a game.

St. Louis offers plenty to entertain the whole family – the only problem is finding enough time to do it all. Return trip, anyone?

Visit explorestlouis.com or call 800-3257962 for more information.

There’s so much to see in St. Louis, where the Budweiser Clydesdales make their home. Just within Forest Park, pictured at top left, is a floral conservatory, history museum, outdoor theater, art museum, zoo and science center.

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INVITATION TUPELO | December 2013 / January 2014

December 2013 / January 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

39

PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF ST. LOUIS CVC AND ANHEUSER-BUSCH

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF CLOUDMONT SKI AND GOLF RESORT

Learn to ski or perfect your skills at Cloudmont Ski and Golf Resort in Mentone, Ala. The resort not only features two 1,000-foot-long ski runs but also offers activities including golf and horseback riding, and hiking is popular in the area.

HIT THE SLOPES You don’t have to go to New England or Colorado to find a snowy spot to unwind.

Cloudmont Ski and Golf Resort in Mentone, Ala., a family-run resort with two ski slopes, is perfect for beginner to intermediate skiers. The owners wait for temperatures to dip below 28 degrees to blast the 1,000-foot-long descents with man-made snow.

“It takes us 15 hours of making snow to be ready to open,” Cloudmont manager Janis Jones Carrier said. “The conditions have to be just right for us to get a good base layered, so it’s best to call a couple of weeks ahead when booking to make sure the slopes should be ready. We

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INVITATION TUPELO | December 2013 / January 2014

can’t guarantee the weather will cooperate.”

The resort offers lodging from intimate chalets to cabins that sleep up to 24 people.

Patrons get free skiing lessons from instructors who learned on Cloudmont snow, and Jones Carrier recommends visitors bring a toboggan, sunglasses or goggles, waterproof gloves and warm clothes, including a waterproof outer layer. Martin Luther King weekend is the busiest time at the resort, she said.

Cloudmont also has a golf course and offers horseback riding at its own dude ranch.

Nearby Little River Canyon National Preserve and Desoto Falls are ideal for winter hikes, and the Log Cabin Craft Village offers shopping.

Venture to Fort Payne, home of the legendary country band Alabama, to visit the local motor speedway or enjoy a performance at the oldest operating opera house in the state. Catch a weekend movie at Henagar’s year-round drivein, or take in some folk art at nearby Orbix Hot Glass or Miracle Pottery and Art Gallery.

Warming up before or after your adventure is also no problem. The fried green tomatoes are famous at Moonlight Bistro; the Wildflower Café and Country Store serves a hearty tomato pie; and Kamama is an art gallery with a coffee shop and more.

Call 256-634-4344 to contact Cloudmont for reservations.

499 GLOSTER CREEK VILLAGE • SUITE F3 • TUPELO

20/20 VISION CENTER 662.350.3676 HOURS:

Mon-Wed 9:00-5:00 Thursday 10:00-6:00 Friday 9:00-4:00 Saturday 9:00-2:00

December 2013 / January 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

41

Barnes Crossing Vision Center Prevent Blindness America has declared December as Safe Toys and Gifts Awareness Month!

We encourage everyone to consider if the toys they wish to give suits the age and skills and abilities of the child who will receive it, especially for infants and children under age three.

• Allergy and Dry Eye Managment • Comprehensive Eye Examination • Comprehensive Contact Lens Exams • Emergency Eye Care • Pre and Post Operative Eye Care • Anterior Segment Eye Disease • Glaucoma Detection and Treatment We accept these Insurances: • Mississippi CAN

Kathryn McCullough, O.D.

840-4624

3929 NORTH GLOSTER ST. TUPELO, MS Located inside the front of Wal-mart Super Center Across from Mall at Barnes Crossing Mon - Tues. 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

Wed. - Fri. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. • Saturday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

42

INVITATION TUPELO | December 2013 / January 2014

• Always Vision • Acclaim • Blue Cross Blue Shield • Davis Vision • Medicare & Medicare Replacement Insurance • Medicaid • UHC - Spectra - Optimum Health Vision • Superior Vision • Tricare • Magnolia Health Plan

• UMR • Avesis • CBSI • NRECA • Pyramid • Sterling • Magnolia Health Plan • Employee Benefit Services • ChampVA • Humana Medicare **Call us to verify other insurances

December 2013 / January 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

43

A new book written by local history buffs chronicles the early days of Tupelo.

by Melanie Crownover photographs contributed by the Lee County Historical Committee

S

earching for the perfect holiday gift for soneone who calls Tupelo home? Look no more. Tupelo is a pictorial history of the first century of the All-America City starting in 1860, 10 years before the town was incorporated. It was written by a handful

44

INVITATION TUPELO | December 2013 / January 2014

of local historians – David Baker, Bill Lyle, Mem Leake, Boyd Yarborough, Dick Hill and Julian Riley – who make up the Lee County Historical Committee.

They didn’t initially plan to publish a book.

Their goal was to collect historical photos, scan

them into digital format and catalog them by identifying by people, place and date. The easiest part was finding pictures. With one request to the community, the group was soon sifting through 4,000 neglected photos from all over Lee County. For three years, they met

Recently published pictorial history book Tupelo is divided into three chapters that depict Tupelo as a village, a town and a city. The photograph on the opposite page shows Tupelo’s early days as a village. Top left, Elvis Presley’s birthplace as it was when he was born in 1935. Top right, a bustling Main Street shows Tupelo has grown into a city. The photograph directly above depicts Tupelo as a town.

December 2013 / January 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

45

Tupelo was written by David Baker, Bill Lyle, Mem Leake, Boyd Yarborough, Dick Hill and Julian Riley. The history buffs collected more than 4,000 historical photographs from people all over Lee County to digitize and catalog for the local library and museums. They selected 250 photographs to include in the book.

monthly at the Lee County Library to preserve local history one photograph at a time until they had enough data to distribute discs to the local library and museums.

Then, last year, the Community Development Foundation tipped them off to an open call from Arcadia Publishing, a company that specializes in publishing the history of small towns and downtowns across the country. The men began work on the book, carefully choosing 250 photographs to organize and caption.

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INVITATION TUPELO | December 2013 / January 2014

“The process was chaotic, but fun. We get a whole bunch of old timers together who’ve lived here forever to play detective with a giant pile of photos that bring back different memories for each of us,” said Hill, a former city councilman who has lived in Tupelo for 55 years. “Staying on subject was probably the hardest thing about it.”

The Civil War. The tornado. Shake Rag. Mill Village. Elvis. The black-and-white images not only show the past but also reflect just how far Tupelo has come.

“I could fill an encyclopedia with what I’ve learned that I never knew in helping get this together,” said Leake, a fourth-generation Tupelo resident whose grandfather started Leake & Goodlett lumber company in 1904.

“This city has a fascinatingly interesting story, and some of it is as unbelievable as a dime store novel. We understood that if no one did anything to save it, this history would be lost.”

Tupelo is on sale now at Barnes & Noble and Reed’s. All proceeds from the book benefit the Oren Dunn City Museum.

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year

240 W. Main St. Okolona, MS 662-447-0222 NEW HOURS: Tues-Wed 10-5, Thurs-Fri 9-6, Sat 9-4 www.thehoneybeeokolona.com

okolonahoneybee www.facebook.com/ thehoneybeeindoormarket

December 2013 / January 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

47

events Tupelo High School Football Playoffs View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

Tupelo High School defeated Warren Central High School Nov. 15 at THS in the first round of 6A playoffs. THS went on to beat Madison Central and South Panola, progressing to the state championship game Dec. 6 against Oak Grove in Jackson, Miss.

Ashlee Johnson, Dorie Stewart, Alexandra Presley and Mary Taylor Ray

Danielle Sharp, Wanda Chambers, Keisha L.S. Bell and Mariah O’Neal

Faye and Johnathan Rogers

Tyler Lusher, Shamia Jones and Cklawn Nash

Clay Cox and Matthew Ray

Ali Watts, Meredith McLaurin, Abby Stafford and Reagan Aldridge

Kim, John and Anderson Foster with Chris and Thomas McAlilly

Morgan, Annie and Kaitlyn Lee

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INVITATION TUPELO | December 2013 / January 2014

photographed by Shea Summers

Ravon Coleman and Patrick Renfroe

Ben Aldridge and Mark Garrett

Kerry and Pam Cockrell

Mary Collins West, Mary Miley, Mary Carter, Gracie Hand, Anna Goggans, Anna McCoy, Carrington Davidson and Britney Butler

Sam Presley and Rachel Duddas

Jason Summers, Antonio Beard, Antonio Beard Jr., Damon Woods and Jermaul Edwards

Louis Meadows and Teresa Spates

December 2013 / January 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

49

events Shakerag Half Marathon View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

The third-annual Shakerag half marathon took place Nov. 16 at Fairpark. Around 200 runners participated in the race, and the proceeds benefited Regional Rehab Center in Tupelo.

Sarah Garrett, Megan Cobb, Amy Smithey and Crystal Young

Glenn, Lisa, Meg and Benji Ross

Amanda Stark, Lindsey Spears and Katie Willard

Jon Jon Suggs, Luke Montgomery and Tracy Holland

Jon Waller, T.K. Moffett and Jonathan Martin

Vikki Sears and Cara Halverstadt

Caroline Walker and Heather Kendrick

Erica Caples and Alicia Hinton

Jenna and Bridgett Jolly

Beth Townsend, Pam Britt and Anita Bryan

Arlaners McKinney Sr., Penelope McKinney and Arlana McKinney

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INVITATION TUPELO | December 2013 / January 2014

photographed by Shea Summers

Nicki Atison and Laura Everly

Regina Medley with Meb

Melinda and Chris Howard

Bonnie Partridge and Betty Gill December 2013 / January 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

51

events Oren Dunn Museum at Ballard Park Christmas Lighting View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

The annual Christmas lighting of Oren Dunn Museum at Ballard Park took place Dec. 2. The event showcased local school choirs and winners of the What the Holidays Mean to Me essay contest, who got to flip the switch to turn on the lights at the museum.

Elon, Nailah and Shelly Slatter with Amir, Kase and Kim Johnson

Jakiya Bogan with Hannah Bell and Bridgett Hawkins and Jakeria Bogan

Neely Turner and Deana Carlock

Addi Turner and Emily Reese

Simone Milev, Miller McCoy and Aaliyah Ewing

Jacque Kirk with Max

Harry Collins, Janice Anthony and Della Lentz

Monica, Zaniyah and Aubri Bogan

Raven Blagg, Anne Thomas Green, Ally Ayers Lipscomb and Crosby Clayton

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INVITATION TUPELO | December 2013 / January 2014

Dalena Duong, Angel Greer, Danielle Johnson and Karodria Armstrong

photographed by Lisa Roberts

Reed and Debbie Jordan

Emma Katherine and Christy Jordan

Be Envied !

Samantha Wilemon and Harper Payne

662-844-2477 431 North Gloster St. Tupelo, MS www.shearenvytupelo.com December 2013 / January 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

53

events Taste of Tupelo View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

The Community Development Foundation’s annual Taste of Tupelo was held Nov. 5 at BancorpSouth Arena. More than 90 businesses, restaurants and caterers participated in the event, offering samples of their products and services to attendees.

Kari Gann, Carrie Weaver, Mimi Blanchard, Diane Floyd, Natalie Poland and Dena Griggs Chris Tourbough with Wesson, Barry and Brittany Pierce and Anna Jones

Thomas Grimes, Bruce Boyett and Randy Dunnam

Stacy Osborne, Jed Duke and Ashley Osborne

Terry Turner, Shyla Shepard and Alexis Mullen

Lisa Wadley, Deanna Burress and Kayla Wallace

Taylor Kitchens, Amanda Kent and Jonathan McCoy

Helen Wade, Sally Williams, Torrie Robertson and Bea Luckett

Cameron Pruett, Stephen Lewis, Brittany Ruff and Chandra Loving

Heather Hutcheson, Kim Waddle, Jeanie Smith and Vicki Ramirez

Eric Stewart, Katherine Jackson, Richard Hurt and Molly Scott

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INVITATION TUPELO | December 2013 / January 2014

photographed by Lisa Roberts

Samuel Michael and Tracie Bramlett

Ashley Prince and Curt McLellan

Mitch Rutherford and Jason Smith

Molly Woodruff and Tina White December 2013 / January 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

55

may 2013

INVITATION MAGAZINES

MAY 2014 The much-anticipated Home & Garden magazine, available May 1, is the only combined Invitation Oxford and Invitation Tupelo issue of the year.

annual combined Tupelo and Oxford issue

56

INVITATION TUPELO | December 2013 / January 2014

To reserve advertising space in this issue, contact Cindy Semmes at (662) 701-8070. All advertising must be reserved by April 8.

Best Show

ON DIRT The Northeast Mississippi Championship Rodeo has brought talented rodeo performers and enthusiastic spectators to Tupelo for the past 20 years.

by Melanie Crownover photographed by Joe Worthem

T

wenty years have passed since the Northeast Mississippi Championship Rodeo debuted in Tupelo. The cowboys

have come and gone over the years. For those who’ve hung on for the buzzer, it’s been one heck of a ride.

“I grew up in the ’60s, when we played cowboys and Indians instead of Call of Duty,” recalls Tupelo native Mark Haygood, December 2013 / January 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

57

Mark Haygood, pictured top left, has been organizing rodeos, including Tupelo’s Northeast Mississippi Championship Rodeo, for years. This year’s rodeo takes place Jan. 25-26 at BancorpSouth Arena. Rodeo events are held in the area throughout the year. Top right and bottom, scenes from the Professional Bull Riders (PBR) event held at BancorpSouth in July.

58

INVITATION TUPELO | December 2013 / January 2014

SENSE OF STABILITY LEADS TO A GREATER Just a short drive to $avin SENSE OF EXHILARATION. in Downtown Hami ® ® Just aashort drive to THE CAN-AM SPYDER ROADSTERS. Just short drive to $avings $avings

marketing representative for the Tupelo rodeo for 13 years. “I never moved out west, but those cowboy ways have always been part of my life. Now I see toddlers in the stands in their boots and hats beside grandpas with the same awed look on their faces and feel good to have brought that back home.”

Haygood – whose backstage rodeo work has included everything from getting dirt hauled into the arena and finding sponsors to coordinating ticket sales for 12-15 rodeos across the country annually – decided to focus solely on his hometown venue five years ago.

Organizing a rodeo depends on a lot of “ifs,” Haygood said. If the rodeo attracts bigger name contestants, the audience grows. If the audience grows, the increase in revenue also draws more riders. If there are more riders, there is more prize money. Those big names need the extra prize money to rack up points to make it to nationals. So as the ante grows, so does the star power of the rodeo cast.

“Last year was the best show we’ve had in probably the last seven or eight years – about 8,000 people here over a two-day ride and 1015 contestants from all over the nation in each category,” Haygood said. “With the owner of the production company [Smith, Harper and Morgan] voted Stock Contractor of the Year for the past eight years, you know there’s a good chance that if you cut on the nationals on ESPN you’re going to see the same horses and bulls you see here in January. That’s why we call it ‘The Most Amazing Show on Dirt.’”

Indeed, the talent roping, riding and wrestling the livestock are not to be ignored.

Lecile Harris, 77, has only missed three Tupelo rodeos in the last 20 years.

Unfortunately, he said, this year will mark his fourth.

“I’m really going to miss being there this year,” Harris, a Lake Cormorant, Miss., native, said. “It’s always been one of my favorites because that’s the top production in the area, and the crowd’s like a building full of friends there after so many years. It’s so much easier to make people laugh when you know each other.”

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December 2013 / January 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

59

Scenes from the Pontotoc County Fair World Championship Rodeo, held at Pontotoc County Agri Center in August.

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INVITATION TUPELO | December 2013 / January 2014

• Free local delivery

Clay Collins of Garland, Texas, has also been a mainstay at the competition since 1997.

“The Le Bonheur [Children’s Hospital] connection has always been a big reason for me. There was a sick little boy in a wheelchair who came to every show whose mom told me how all he talked about all year was when I would be back. I came back for almost a decade just to see him and brought him boots and hats and shirts,” Collins said. “He passed away, but knowing how much this event raises for them is another reason I love coming here.”

The show has donated $150,000 to the hospital over the years.

This year’s stage could also be the springboard for a comeback. Shannon, Miss., native Chance Smart, who started bull riding at age 5 on the local junior rodeo circuit, has been a regular at the Tupelo show since 2005.

Smart became the first Mississippi rider to qualify for the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas in 2007, where he finished third place in the world. After setting a record for the most money ever won in a single event in San Antonio the following year, Smart ranked first in the world for 10 months. He later lost the world title in the 10th round during his second WNFR appearance, placing second.

His appearance in a Rapid City, S.D., XTreme Bulls event in 2009 made Smart a household name when he took a hit to the cheek that knocked him unconscious and sent him flying through the air. The injury almost killed the young rider, causing bleeding of the brain and a case of amnesia that lasted two weeks. Although he has lasting brain damage now treated with medication, Smart recovered from double vision after three experimental surgeries and came out of a self-imposed twoyear retirement with a win in Texas in October.

“It doesn’t matter what you’ve won or where you’ve ridden when you’re beginning again and trying to get your life and career back at 30,” Smart said. “When they first started this rodeo I went on a class trip and dreamed someday I’d ride there. I got that dream, and they’ve supported me through the rest. It would be so cool to take home a title from where I started out while I’m starting over.”

• Fresh cut flowers for all occasions • 5 exclusive pottery lines • Bridal registry • Ronaldo jewelry

408 Washington Street, Booneville, MS 38829

662.728.4788

M-F 9-6 • Sat 9-2

December 2013 / January 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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INVITATION TUPELO | December 2013 / January 2014

December 2013 / January 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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HOLIDAY HOMECOMING

by Melanie Crownover

PHOTOGRAPHED BY MICKEY DOBO

PHOTOGRAPHED BY LEE HARRELSON

North Mississippi musicians Paul Thorn and Mac McAnally will take the stage together for the first time Dec. 20 in Tupelo.

M

usicians Paul Thorn and Mac McAnally can’t explain why they’ve never done a show together. They’ve known each other for years, and although their styles may differ, they have at least three major things in common: a penchant for storytelling through music, the need to entertain and hometowns in northeast Mississippi.

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INVITATION TUPELO | December 2013 / January 2014

It’s no accident the two chose to perform together for the first time on Dec. 20 in Tupelo.

It’s a homecoming that’s just in time for the holidays.

McAnally (above right) grew up in Belmont, Miss., in a dry county that encouraged local bands to look to bars outside the county lines for work.

“I lived in Tupelo for a while when I was a

teenager and worked at Trace Studios and played in the house band at the Showboat,” McAnally said. “That’s where I learned the ropes, and coming back puts me back in the stew of everything I grew up in. I love to revel in that as a songwriter. Storytelling has to have some elaboration, but being home gives me the yardstick to know if I’ve stretched the truth to taffy.”

The singer later took his guitar to Nashville, where he’s worked as a longtime member of Jimmy Buffet’s Coral Reefer Band, wrote hits for a list of musicians from Hank Williams Jr. to Reba McIntyre and produced albums by artists such as Sawyer Brown and Ricky Skaggs. McAnally just won his sixth consecutive Country Music Awards Musician of the Year award and has been writing with Kenny Chesney.

Thorn, whose gutsy rock album Pimps and Preachers made the Billboard Hot 100 after three weeks at the top of the Americana Music Association charts, is a Tupelo native who has made it big twice – first as a professional boxer and then as a singer and songwriter.

“They’ve always stood behind me here and never walked out,” Thorn said. “When I fought on national TV they were there, even when I lost. I have to come home to play once a year, even when touring is crazy. This year, it’s like a Christmas gift. I get to be here for the holidays.”

Both artists have played repeat shows at the Lyric Theatre over the past few years, but they will take the BancorpSouth Arena stage in front of friends and family for the first time.

The musicians will also give one more thing to the community.

“We know there are a lot of people who are down and out this Christmas,” Thorn said.

“We’re working with Helping Hands Food Bank to help.”

Each audience member who brings a nonperishable food item or canned good to the show will get a download of That’s Not Why We’re Here, a previously unreleased Christmas song by Thorn that was recorded last month.

For tickets, call 662-841-6528 or visit bcsarena.com.

December 2013 / January 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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photographed by Lisa Roberts

events Downtown Holiday Open House View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

Downtown Tupelo Main Street Association held its Downtown Holiday Open House the afternoon of Nov. 24. Tupelo businesses encouraged local shopping by opening their doors with special sales and refreshments.

Jane Miller and Jenn Chambers with Ruthann and Salena Morgan

Kim Gambrell Crausby, Bev Crossen, Gretchen Hughes and Traci Lewis

Kim Carson, Leighann Hurst and Jennifer Love

Kelly Allen and Kim Leathers

Jessica Black, Katy White and Darla Kirk

Judy Simpson and Nancy Williams

Jeremy Allison and Trai Stegall

John Rush, Louise Shannon and Charlene Jordan

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INVITATION TUPELO | December 2013 / January 2014

346-A West Oxford Street Pontotoc, MS 662-489-1074 Monday-Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

662-469-1074 346-A West Oxford Street 346-A West Oxford St.MS Pontotoc, Ms Pontotoc, Monday-662-489-1074 Saturday 10a.m.-5p.m.

MONDAY - SATURDAY 10:00 - 6:00 662.269.2551

339A E MAIN ST. TUPELO, MS

Monday-Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

New Fabrics Arriving Daily!

Monday - Wednesday 8:30-5 Thursday - Friday 8:30-5:30 1st Saturday of month 9-3

662-407-0026 www.phifabrics.com 2020 South Gloster, Tupelo, MS December 2013 / January 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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events Color Run

View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

Tupelo Christian Preparatory School held a 5K color run at its Belden, Miss., campus Nov. 23. The event benefited the school’s baseball program, which is raising funds for lights, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

Starting line

Rachel Harris and Caroline Michael

Boatner Calhoun with Chance, Jackson, Millie and Lindsey Jo Speed, and Elise Jones, Lauren Graft and Hope Austin

Juan Cabral and Laura Rhea with Charlie

Will and Elise Jones with Lauren Graft and Hope Austin

Elizabeth Lunn, Locke Hester and Ashton Davis

Cade Hall, Cade Knight, Brandon Wood and Andrew Riley

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Alex Blissard and Amelia Pollicicchioa

INVITATION TUPELO | December 2013 / January 2014

Hayes Halbert and McClain Raya

Courtney Foster, Taylor Brown and Hannah Beth Conwill

Gracie Hand, Anna Calhoun, Carter Halbert, Trippe Howell, Margaret Claire Blakey and Mary Wiley

photographed by Lisa Roberts

Liza Haynes, Mary Mize Knight, Ally Lipscomb and Sloane Foster

Valerie Clifton and Leslie Scott

Retta Sasser with Maggie and Susan Davis and Tracy Bridges

Christi Nabors with Jennifer and Hunter Bagwell and Nicole McCracken December 2013 / January 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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events Disney on Ice: Princesses and Heroes View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

Disney on Ice: Princesses and Heroes was performed Nov. 21 at BancorpSouth Arena. The show featured favorite Disney princesses including, Snow White, Belle, Jasmine, Cinderella, Tiana, Aurora, Mulan and Ariel.

Yolanda and Olivia Atkins with Aniyah and Carol Welch

Amanda, Spencer, Taylor, Brennan and Brad Guy

Kylie Davidson, DeVonda Baker and J’harne Mayfield

Kate Zemek and Katie Gregg

Allie Claire and Matthew Fancher

Jace Deaton, Shree and Sadie Randolph

Izzy Grace Rickman with Courtney and Patty Pruitt

Wes Webber with Taylor and Cala Petty

Shelia Ross and Lynnlee Hill with Stacy and Sydney Tuttle, and Paige and Kasen Hill

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INVITATION TUPELO | December 2013 / January 2014

Emily, Janet and Gracie Anderson

photographed by Lisa Roberts

Ethan, Marlane, Ainleigh and Erin Claire Dunn with Delma Rodabough

Emma Rice, Alonna Snyder, Maddie Davis, Anna Grace and Meghan Davis and Kelly Rice

Hudson Kate, Mason and Kristen Yarbrough December 2013 / January 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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out and about

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1. Tracie Conwill, Suzanne Oakley, Debra Robison, Donna Rumbarger, Bobby Geno, Rob Rice, Mark Maharry, Tom Booth, Fred Cannon, Tommy Green, Jeff Houin, Craig Helmuth and Josh Wise at Tupelo Community Theatre’s Nov. 7 launch party for its new location at 213 East Franklin St. 2. Bev Crossen, Kim Carson, Seth Copeland, Tammy Rodgers, Kim Root, Shelly Daniel and Jack Reed Jr. at the Nov. 5 Downtown Tupelo Main Street Association awards breakfast at BancorpSouth Arena. 3. Todd Hunt and Alex Farned at the DTMSA breakfast. 4.

Emma and Renee Reid at the Nov. 16 Tupelo Arts Showcase at Link Centre. 5. Haydon Billingsley and Kathy Young at the arts showcase. 6. Kristi and Kalyn Lake with Nancy Diffee at the Nov. 7 Holiday Tables of Celebration preview party at GumTree Museum of Art. 7. Yvette Slocum, Christy Miller, Katy White and Meg Stegall at the Tables party. 8. Wanda Todd, Shirley Neuhaus, Brittany Watson and Jessica Black at the Tables party. 9. Cheryl and Eric Dillow with Amber Davis at the Nov. 24 Tanglefoot Christmas open house. 10. Freda Brad-

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14 dock, Starlette Vance and Regina Rogers at Cooking Like the Stars, Nov. 24 at Park Heights. 11. Sally Threldkeld and Richard Tucker at Cooking Like the Stars. 12. Robert and Mary Thompson at Cooking Like the Stars. 13. Jana Dawson and Jason Bormann at Cooking Like the Stars.

14. Pete and Belva Poland at Cooking Like the Stars.

December 2013 / January 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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out and about

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15. Caroline Moss, Doreen Boren, Becki Duffie, Terry Turner, Alexis Mullen, Torrie Robertson and Brian Horton at the Nov. 8 ribbon cutting for Vista Ridge apartments. 16. Cathy Fitzpatrick, Connie Servati and Dee Walters at Tupelo High School theater department’s Nov. 17 production of Our Town. 17. Lacey Carr and Allana Austin at Our Town. 18. Meredith Mclaurin, Nekqua Hughes and Mary Clair Kelly at Our Town. 19. Lycrecia Harris, Sam Mosley and Dot Lyons at the Nov. 4 unveiling of the Mosley and Johnson exhibit at the Tupelo Convention & Visitors Bureau. 20. Lilly Thomas, Bill Ward and Bobbie Griffin at the Mosley and Johnson exhibit unveiling. 21. Kim and Chandler Head with Will Collins and Daphne Works at the Nov. 1 showing of Rocky Horror Picture Show at the Link Centre. 22. Lisa and Jonathan Martin at Rocky Horror Picture Show. 23. Kati Reynolds and Callie Berryhill at Rocky Horror Picture Show. 24. Jedediah Betts and Nathan Webb at Rocky Horror Picture Show. 25. Melinda Conerly, Jeannine Kilgore and Katie King at Sweet Treats Bakery’s Nov.

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28 22 holiday open house. 26. Amanda Clayton and Tammy D’Agostino at Southern Roots’ Nov. 29 Black Friday sale. 27. Olivia Steward and Lauren Dye at Southern Roots’ Black Friday sale. 28. Paige Cox and Lindsey Bailey at Southern Roots’ Black Friday sale.

December 2013 / January 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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INVITATION TUPELO | December 2013 / January 2014

December 2013 / January 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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IN SEASON Holiday

Cakes

by Melanie Crownover photographed by Joe Worthem

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or many, baking is a holiday tradition.

Tupelo baker Joyce Harrington has sold her sought-after cakes and pies for the past 20 years, first out of a convenience store she owned and then at the farmers market. This season, she shares two of her most requested holiday cakes with Invitation Tupelo. “The Amalgamation Cake is an old-time favorite. I think I could eat a whole bowl of the filling for that one,” Harrington said. “And this Rum Cake is a moist, flavorful pound cake that could put anyone in the spirit.”

Amalgamation Cake (pictured) 1 cup butter 2 cups sugar 1 cup milk 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon baking powder 3 cups flour 4 eggs Cream butter and sugar together. Add milk, baking soda and baking powder. Stir in flour and eggs. Pour evenly into three round cake pans. Bake at 350°F for 25 minutes.

FILLING 4 eggs 1 cup butter 2 cups sugar 1 cup evaporated milk 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 2 cups raisins 2 cups nuts 2 cups coconut Beat eggs with a fork and mix in the butter, sugar and milk. Cook on the stove top until it thickens. Add the rest of the ingredients and let cool. Spoon on and smooth between cake layers and all over the outside. Sprinkle top with additional coconut, and garnish with maraschino cherries, if desired.

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INVITATION TUPELO | December 2013 / January 2014

Rum Cake 1 box yellow cake mix 1 small box instant vanilla pudding 1 cup water 4 eggs ½ cup vegetable oil 1½ teaspoons rum flavoring Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix. Pour batter into a greased and floured Bundt pan. Bake at 350°F for 45 minutes while you make the glaze.

RUM GLAZE 1 cup sugar ½ cup water 1 stick margarine 1½ teaspoons rum flavoring Combine all ingredients in a pot, and bring to a boil on the stove top for 3-4 minutes.

Pour over the cake while it’s still hot and in the Bundt pan. Let the glazed cake stand 15 minutes to cool before removing from the pan and serving.

Catering Good Eats

Small and large events across North Mississippi Weddings • Rehearsal Dinners 662-534-3250 New Albany, MS December 2013 / January 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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tupelo spirit Jack Curtis Tupelo businessman Jack Curtis, 50, is an Elvis tribute artist in his free time. He performs with the band Suspicious Minds, and he competes in Elvis tribute artist contests. In honor of the King’s 79th birthday on Jan. 8, Curtis shares some insights with us.

Q: How did you become a tribute artist?

A: The insurance company I worked for 25 years before I went independent knew I sang and asked me to do an Elvis show for one of their conventions. When it was over, I asked the costume shop owner what it would cost to keep the jumpsuit because no one was doing shows like that in Tupelo at the time. I played a 30-minute show every Monday night at the Executive Inn for two years before I started with competitions.

Q: What’s it like to do this in Tupelo?

A: This is one of the best places to do what I do because I get a perspective on him that many don’t get. I meet people every day who knew him and get firsthand accounts of what he was really like and be part of a place that helped make him who he was.

Q: How did you learn to play the guitar?

A: My dad really influenced me. He had a band and played the Louisiana Hayride [radio show] in Shreveport on the same stage and the same night as Elvis in October 1954, but he played country.

Q: Did you ever see Elvis perform?

A: The closest I came was on the 25th anniversary of his death. I went to the tribute with my mom where they had a performance with him on the big screen, and his band and backup singers were live playing the same set as the footage. It was pretty cool. She met Elvis two times and went to see him several times, though. interviewed by Melanie Crownover photographed by Joe Worthem

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INVITATION TUPELO | December 2013 / January 2014