March 2014

MARCH 2014

WOMEN

Masters OF THE BALANCING ACT

In Spine Surgery

NMMC’s neurosurgeons pictured (left to right): R. Hunt Bobo, M.D., Elbert White, IV, M.D., FACS, Walter Eckman, M.D., Carl Bevering, III, M.D., Louis Rosa, III, M.D., FACS

Named a Blue Distinction Center of Excellence for spine surgery by BlueCross BlueShield of Mississippi For you that means confidence that you’ll receive quality care in a safe, efficient and cost-effective manner with North Mississippi Medical Center’s Neurosurgical Services.

To learn more, visit nmhs.net/spine_center.php.

& Hip Replacement and forKnee Spine Surgery Spine Surgery

Creating Beautiful

Smiles

PARK PLACE

D E N TA L 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 8-5 662-728-8171 403 North 3rd St. Booneville, MS 38829 www.parkplacedentist.com

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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2014

Visit

Downtown Baldwyn MAY

2014

TY LINE SATURDAY, MAY 3RD

DOWNTOWN BALDWYN, MS FOR MORE INFO CONTACT BALDWYN MAIN STREET CHAMBER 662.365.1050

MISSISSIPPI MADE

ARTS & CRAFTS

LIVE MUSIC 5K RUN

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K AY L A

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STONE

IN THIS ISSUE MARCH 2014

FEATURES

MARCH 2014

33 Women of Distinction WOMEN

Masters OF THE BALANCING ACT

COVER ILLUSTRATION

BY LESLIE GRAY

Like the ringmaster of a three-ring circus, each of these women has taken charge of life’s many obligations, successfully juggling home, work, play and more.

53 Mother of Reinvention Haley Russell turned her furniture-refinishing hobby into a side business, even while working full time and raising two young children.

56 The Thrill of the Chase North Mississippi Storm Chasers and Spotters track and report dangerous weather to keep neighboring communities safe.

69 Pattern for Success Christian Women’s Job Corps teaches practical life skills and offers professional job training to women in Tupelo seeking employment.

EVENTS 16 18 21 22 24 42 44 46 48 51 60 62 64 66 67

26 Build for Beth

Following the tragic death of Tupelo police officer Gale Stauffer, the community is rallying around his wife, Beth, and their two children, Dixie and Skip. Build for Beth is a volunteer-run, community-led initiative to support the Stauffers by rebuilding their family home.

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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2014

Junior Auxiliary Charity Ball It’s All About the Dress Alice in Wonderland Tupelo Muddy 5K Jesse Lynch Jazz 101 Florida Georgia Line Concert Evening of Jazz Mardi Gras Party Silence Hides Violence 5K Business After Hours Harlem Globetrotters Snowflake Ball Spring Market Super Bowl Party Swimming Championship

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64 DEPARTMENTS 10 12 19 72 76 78 80

Letter From the Publisher What’s Happening Contributing Artist Out and About Pets of the Month In Season: Cabbage Tupelo Spirit: Nettie Davis March 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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LETTER FROM

the publisher

CORRECTION: A story in our February issue stated Jeff Houin is a retired dermatologist. He is not retired.

He is a dermatologist with the Dermatology Center of North Mississippi. Invitation Tupelo regrets the error.

I

n 1965 my mom was 14, and her father died of a long illness.

My grandmother, who was 40, returned to work full time. For the benefit of my mother, she decided to stay in the town where they had made their home. It was a 12-hour drive from immediate family but together, and with love and support from a lot of friends, my mother and my grandmother made it through a difficult time.

My grandmother died when I was 29. She taught me more than I can ever explain, but one lesson that stands out is that when we are tested with sorrow and hard times, other folks – both friends and strangers – are willing to help. This month, we celebrate the helpers of Tupelo. We begin with five women who were honored March 7 for giving their time and service to folks right here in the area who otherwise might not have had a warm meal or a ride to the grocery story.

And then there’s Beth Stauffer’s story and the army of volunteers who are helping renovate her house. Beth and her children have allowed others to help them, and as this family regroups and rebuilds after the tragic and sudden loss of their father and husband, Gale, a police officer who was killed in the line of duty in December, there is a glimmer of hope in her voice. Be sure to read their heartwarming story on page 26.

Sometimes it takes sharpening your skill set in order to help yourself. My grandmother was faced with that exact challenge after the loss of her husband. She finished a degree in library science and was then able to earn a better living for herself and my mom.

A similar story is shared by Diane Souter. After deciding she needed to sharpen her skills in order to find a job, she began attending the Christian Women’s Job Corps. Thanks to self-motivation and encouragement from others in the organization, she is striving to move herself and her family in a positive direction. At press time Souter still had not found a full-time job, but she hasn’t given up hope.

She keeps her spirits up and knows that the skills she is learning will manifest themselves in an opportunity for full-time employment.

My grandmother worked as a public school librarian until retirement. She raised my mom alone for her remaining years in high school.

She married the man I knew as my grandfather in 1971. Through it all, my grandmother allowed others to help her during difficult times. When she was in a place in life she could help others, she did.

Take a moment this month to do something for someone else. You will be amazed at the impact it can have on your own life.

RACHEL M. WEST, PUBLISHER

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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2014

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 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, Emily Gatlin, Leslie Gray, Arlene Beard Norton, Kristi Sizemore, Shea Summers OFFICE MANAGER Hollie Hilliard 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, to obtain an event photo or to purchase an announcement, email Hallie at hallielandonmarshall@gmail.com.

PLEASE RECYCLE THIS MAGAZINE

March 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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what’s happening March 15-April 15

A sampling of important, fun and interesting events in our area. For more events, visit facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

PERFORMANCES March 18

OUTDOOR EVENTS, FESTIVALS AND MORE March 21-22

April 4-5

John Berry Concert

Building Healthy Families Conference

New Albany Home and Garden Show

Tupelo Concert Association presents John Berry.

7:30 p.m., Tupelo Civic Auditorium, 662-840-7505

Elton John Concert

A workshop open to anyone involved in the life of a child, including parents, educators, counselors and coaches.

Tupelo’s First Baptist Church. Contact Cori at 662-8426752 ext. 113, or cori@newbeginningsadoptions.org. newbeginningsadoptions.org

Sir Elton John and his band perform. 8 p.m., BancorpSouth Arena, bcsarena.com

March 22

Union County Master Gardeners sponsors its sixth-annual Home and Garden Show, “Wings into Spring.” More than 20 horticulture speakers and demonstrations as well as plant, yard art, lawn furniture and garden equipment vendors. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

Sunday; Union County Fairgrounds, New Albany, Miss.; newalbanygardening.com

March 19

March 20-22 The Importance of Being Earnest Tupelo Community Theatre presents The Importance of Being Earnest. 7:30 p.m. Thursday and Friday, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Saturday; Lyric Theatre; tctwebstage.com

March 20 Still on the Hill Folkgrass duo Still on the Hill visits from northwest Arkansas. Tickets $12, children under 12 free. 7 p.m., Link Centre, stillonthehill.com

March 22

Tupelo Craft Beer Festival Sample craft beer and food from local vendors at the second-annual Tupelo Craft Beer Festival. Noon-5 p.m., Fairpark, tupelocraftbeerfest.com

March 22

April 5 This 5K run/walk benefits the Autism Center of North Mississippi. Nettleton, Miss.; smalltownrunaround.com

March 29 Run in Her Shoes

March 22

March 29 Black Rodeo

Tupelo Ballet presents Les Sylphides, a ballet featuring a poet surrounded by a drifting chorus of sylphs, followed by contemporary repertory pieces. 2 p.m., Tupelo Civic Auditorium

Tupelo hosts its first Black Rodeo. Tickets $20.50, $25.50 day of show. 7:30 p.m., BancorpSouth Arena, bcsarena.com

April 4-6

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus

Pied Piper Players Pied Piper Players children’s theater group presents Schoolhouse Rock Live! 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday; Milam Auditorium

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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2014

Get blasted with color while running a 5K that benefits Family Resource Center. Fairpark, thecolorvibe.com

Saltillo Junior Women’s Club hosts its fifth-annual Jogging for the Jungle 5K race to raise money for seating and shade for the Jungle Playground at City Park in Saltillo, Miss. 8 a.m., downtown Saltillo, racesonline.com

North Mississippi Symphony Orchestra features violinist Natasha Korsakova and cellist Allison Eldredge performing the Double Concerto of Brahms. 7:30 p.m., Link Centre, nmsymphony.com

Tupelo Ballet performs Les Sylphides

Color Vibe 5K

Jogging for the Jungle

Get out your best heels for the first Run in Her Shoes 5K race and fun run, sponsored by Tupelo Women’s Club. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Regional Rehab, Tupelo Lee Humane Society and Down on Main summer concert series. 8 a.m., Fairpark, racesonline.com

NMSO Performance

April 5

April 3-6 The Greatest Show on Earth comes to Tupelo.

BancorpSouth Arena, bcsarena.com

Small Town Run Around

April 11-13 Holly Springs Pilgrimage The 76th-annual Holly Springs Pilgrimage, sponsored by the Holly Springs Garden Club, features five antebellum homes, two museums and three churches. A characterguided tour of the cemetery and 5K race also take place.

Tickets $25. 662-252-4015, hollyspringspilgrimage.com

April 12 Children’s Fishing Rodeo Bring lawn chairs, bait, tackle and the whole family. Children ages 3-15 can participate from 8:30 a.m.-noon, and then the free event at Veteran’s Park opens to the public.

April 12 Citywide Sidewalk Sale Tupelo Department of Parks and Recreation hosts a citywide sidewalk sale to benefit Friends of the Park. 8 a.m.noon, northeast corner of Ballard Park, 662-841-6440

EXHIBITS, AWARDS, BENEFITS Through March 31 Women’s History Month Celebrate Women’s History Month with a photo exhibit featuring national parks across the country honoring and preserving women’s history. Open daily 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Natchez Trace Parkway Visitor Center at milepost 266.

March 18 Jefferson Awards Five local men and women will be presented as Jefferson Award nominees, a prestigious national public service award. One nominee will represent this region in a ceremony in Washington, D.C., this summer. 6 p.m., BancorpSouth Conference Center

March 20 Tupelo Miracle Maker Blast After an eight-week fundraising competition for Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital, one family will be named 2014 Miracle Maker Family of the Year. 6 p.m., BancorpSouth Conference Center

March 29 The Giving Gala Tupelo Women’s Club’s gala benefits Regional Rehab, Tupelo Lee Humane Society, Down on Main summer concert series and Link Centre. Tickets $25 in advance, $30 at the door. Features a silent auction, live jazz, hurricane cocktails and New Orleans-style food. 7 p.m., Link Centre

April 5 GumTree Museum Gala Support GumTree Museum of Art at its annual fundraiser.

Food, cash bar, silent and live auctions and live music.

Tickets $50. 7 p.m., Tupelo Country Club

April 12 Crawfish Boil Blue Canoe hosts a charity crawfish boil. Profits from crawfish and T-shirt sales benefit Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital. Open at 11 a.m.; Roxy Roca plays a free show at 1 p.m. and another show at 9 p.m. for $5 admission.

March 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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Northeast Mississippi

Real Estate Guide Southern Real Estate

Gena Nolan, Managing Broker Coldwell Banker Southern Real Estate

SOUTHERN REAL ESTATE

ph/ 662.620.2232 www.cbtupelo.com gnolan@cbtupelo.com

Michelle McAuley

michelle@tmhomes.com

638 Walnut

1001 Valley Road

662-842-8283

www.trirealestate.net

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

600 W Main, Tupelo, MS

Completely redone! 4 bedroom/ 3.5 bath

Janet Martin 662.791.6001 MARTIN SELECT PROPERTIES, PLLC

135 Rippavilla, Saltillo

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

MLS # 14-129 • 3 bedrooms 2.5 baths

121 Caitlin Drive

415 North Madison

185 CR 520 (Brewer)

MLS # 13-2560

MLS # 13-2597

MLS # 13-1299

169 Colt Lane, Guntown

4338 Meadow Circle, Belden

Brenda Estes (662) 231-5336 Blair Cleveland (662) 213-7921 Office (662) 620-2219

Picture perfect.

3BR 2BA with an 18x36 in-ground pool.

Show and Tell Time.

3BR 2BA split bedroom floor-plan.

All Things Bright & Beautiful.

6BR/4BA 3 car garage

SOUTHERN REAL ESTATE

We’re Your Chaco Headquarters!

Men • Women • Kids

Historic Downtown Tupelo

Mall at Barnes Crossing

Jackson Square • Columbus Downtown Starkville

March 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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events Junior Auxiliary Charity Ball View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

The 51st-annual Junior Auxiliary Charity Ball, Le Grand Bal Parisien, was held Feb. 7 at BancorpSouth Arena. Civic Ballet and Tupelo High School Madrigals performed, and food from Park Heights matched the Paris theme. Money raised benefits local children.

Darby Blankenship, Kelly Michael, Caroline Brown, Krista Stanmark and Devin Guy

Justin and Kayla Hatcher with Lin and Cary Gaddy and Josh and Leaza Hazlewood

Christy Flynn, Jennifer Calhoun, Michelle Taylor and Jane Eades

Krista Clifton, Rachel Hodnett, Tiana Allen and Madison Christian

Felicia Patel, Leigh Sumner, Katey Gardner, Kylie Hobson and Sydney Gully

Josh Caron, Chandler Craig, Jimmy Stone and Colton Knight Annie Price, Anna Hall, McCarthy Repult and Maggie Knight

Joel Baldwin, Matthew Miley, Daniel Purnell, Robert Thompson and Kyle Holliman

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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2014

Caroline, Julie, Robert and Fulton Thompson

Taylor Rodgers, Jocelyn Topp, McCarthy Repult, Morgan Hereford, Kennedy Bunn and Hannah Filgo

photographed by Lisa Roberts

Lee Herman, Carley Johnston and Mandy Lacey

Hannah and Newt Harrison

Emily and Michael Carter March 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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photographed by Lisa Roberts

events It’s All About the Dress View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

It’s All About the Dress held its first event Feb. 15 at BancorpSouth Arena to rent prom dresses to high school students. There were more than 500 dresses to choose from, with many donated by local businesses. The event was so successful, it was held again March 1.

Somer and Savannah Swords with Natalie and Michelle Hill

Miranda McGloflin with Haylea and Alexandria Brown

Emma Rice and Bess Buskirk

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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2014

Ginger Towery, Joni Leathers, Dee Dee Bates, Darby Jenkins and Missie Barnett

Caroline Parker, Katherine Stone and Dakin Reed

Dyane Collins and Raven Gillard

Shauna Andersen, Valerie Olson and Jennie Trott

Kayla McMillen and Susan Loden

Kalei Ware and Robin Powell

contributor Leslie Gray

MARCH 2014

ABOUT THE COVER ARTIST Leslie Gray is a native of Ingomar, Miss., with a Bachelor of Fine Arts WOMEN Masters in graphic design from Mississippi State University. She teaches painting classes under the name The Official Girls’ Night Out; has begun her own line of T-shirts (Gray & Co.); and has worked as a mural artist, commercial artist and public speaker. Her new shop, Gray & Company in downtown New Albany, will serve as an event and painting class space, retail space and studio space. She lives in Sherman, Miss., with her dog, Trudie Gray.

OF THE BALANCING ACT

ABOUT THE COVER ARTWORK “‘I’m off to join the circus!’ said every woman who has ever dared to pursue her career with a passion, in addition to fulfilling her roles as wife, mother and community servant,” Gray said. “In The Ringmaster, my goal as the creator was to capture the chaos of the everyday circus that is a working woman’s life. The energy relayed through color, contrast and movement dancing together in this piece celebrates the charisma of this woman who brings balance to the world around her in her very own ‘circus.’

True amazement lies in her ability to keep it all together. She orchestrates her chaos with grace and confidence. Her multitasking is flawless.”

March 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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FLOORING & INTERIORS

COME SEE US AT OUR NEW LOCATION! 2715 Hwy 145 South Saltillo, MS • 869-3545

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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2014

photographed by Lisa Roberts

events Alice in Wonderland View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

Civic Ballet performed Alice in Wonderland March 1 at Civic Auditorium. A Mad Hatter’s Tea Party, which included refreshments and a chance to meet the dancers, was held between the matinee and evening performances.

Lorelei and Tracie Fitts

Hetty Layton, Daphne Young, Maddie Arancibia and Hannah Tybor

Ainsley Ryan, Anne Teagan Sanders and Eron Hendrix

Jan Dijkwel and Beth Richardson

Carlos Taylor and Haillie Sonwineski

Scarlett, Madelyn and Ella Von Strahl

Jillian and Nicole Chism

Jennifer and Elizabeth McMorris

Ava and Adrienne Hildenbrand

March 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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photographed by Lisa Roberts

events Tupelo Muddy 5K View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

Runners faced winter weather and mud for the Tupelo Muddy 5K race, held Feb. 8 at the Tupelo Christian Preparatory School cross country trails in Belden, Miss. Proceeds from the race benefited the TCPS Athletic Booster Club.

Scott Mason and Michael Shoup

Amy Homan and Brandie Wise

Jeannie and Scott Massey

Ron Yancey and Chris Deaton

Ken Gassaway, Justin Johnson and Payton Temple

Natalie Holland with Stacey and Brett Cantrell

Kara Ames, Sam Colburn, Allie Ware and Daniell Bobo

John and Kelly Kenney with Wade Holland

PROGOLF TUPELO

662-844-9233 | 119 S Industrial Rd | Tupelo, MS 38801

We discount everything except service.

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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2014

Bill Collins, OWNER

Spring ViSit Day 2014

Thursday, April 3

10 a.m.-1 p.m. at the ICC-Tupelo Student Services Building and again 4-6 p.m. in the UM-Tupelo Lobby

Find out more about transferring your previous coursework to complete a Bachelor’s degree with Ole Miss-Tupelo!

662-844-5622 /umtupelo

www.olemiss.edu/tupelo

March 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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photographed by Shea Summers

events Jesse Lynch’s Jazz 101 View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

Tupelo Concert Association presented Jesse Lynch’s Jazz 101 Feb. 18 at Civic Auditorium. The following day, TCA and Jesse Lynch held an outreach program for schoolchildren that was funded by a grant from Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Mississippi, Inc.

Harold Kay, Joe Michaels, Jesse Lynch, Linda Kinsey and Tyler Dempsey

Charlene and Gola Senter

John Blakey and Betty Lee Marshall

Elise Jones and Lauren Graff

Ron and Cheryl Stephens

Karen and Sarah Barclay

Jamie and Madelyn Kyker with David Crosby

Nathan Nunley with Scott and Corey Bell

Brenda Cox with Linda and Gary Johnson

Shirley Scott and Bob Munson

Ellen and Clay Roberts

Wayne and Carolyn Oaks

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The Tupelo community is helping the Stauffer family rebuild their lives after a devastating loss.

by Emily Gatlin photographs courtesy of the Stauffer family

BETH AND GALE STAUFFER SPENT THE WEEKEND BEFORE CHRISTMAS

GALE STAUFFER

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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2014

visiting Cotton Plant’s holiday light display, baking cookies, shopping and taking their two young children, Dixie and Skip, to see Santa. Gale, a Tupelo police officer and Iraq war veteran, was excited about spending the holidays with his family.

Two days before Christmas, Gale was fatally wounded after responding to a reported bank robbery on South Gloster Street.

“Gale came from a long line of warriors,” said Gale’s father, Kevin Stauffer. “His great-grandfather served in WWI, his grandfather served in WWII and was killed in Korea, and they wouldn’t let me join the Army because I was the sole surviving son of a deceased veteran. Gale was every bit of the hero that his grandfather was.”

Beth and Gale Stauffer’s love story reads like a fairy tale. They met their senior year of high school while working at a Piggly Wiggly in Baton Rouge, La. Their first date was Gale’s senior prom. He received a scholarship to play football at Itawamba Community College in 1993, and they stayed closely in touch.

“He ran up a $1,000 phone bill at ICC because he was so homesick for Beth,” said Gale’s mother, Debbie Brangenberg. “He worked some odd jobs to pay for that one.”

One of Gale’s odd jobs included working for a florist, and he made Beth’s wedding bouquet when they married in 2003. The couple moved to Tupelo later that year, and Gale was called to serve in Iraq. When he returned in 2005, he joined the Tupelo Police Department.

“He enjoyed being a police officer,” his father said. “There is nothing he wouldn’t have done for the people he worked with and his friends. I never knew the lives that he touched in Tupelo both on the job and off until this happened.”

When he wasn’t on the job, he was at home helping Beth with the children.

“He’d come in from a long night shift and stay up and help me get Dixie off to school,” Beth said. “He was such a big guy, and he had to be because he had such a big heart. It made sense, because if he had been any smaller, he wouldn’t have been able to hold his own heart.”

PHOTOGRAPHED BY LISA ROBERTS

DIXIE, BETH AND SKIP STAUFFER March 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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BUILD FOR BETH

Call us for your spring hair color and cuts, spray tans, and pedicures!

662.840.5555 • 3265 McCullough Blvd, Tupelo Check us out on facebook and at belleamesalonandspa.com

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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2014

Beth, Dixie and Skip are working to figure out life without Gale; in the meantime, Steve Tybor has big plans for them.

“I was working out at the gym a day or two after Christmas, and they were interviewing Beth on the news,” Tybor said. “She appeared to be so strong. Her world had changed dramatically in those four or five days, and God laid on my heart. I didn’t know her or Gale, but I wondered if there was anything I could do to help Beth and her family. Two days before Christmas she was thinking about festivities, and in a moment her life was changed forever.

I started thinking about what I could do.”

Tybor is president and co-founder of Eight Days of Hope, an organization founded during the wake of Hurricane Katrina to assist places around the country affected by disasters.

To date, they have rebuilt 1,500 homes. They will begin remodeling the Stauffer home at the end of March.

“She has two young kids, and we didn’t want her to be distracted by something that could easily be fixed,” Tybor said. “A toilet that doesn’t work properly, an appliance that is broken, a door that doesn’t shut. She has bigger things to be concerned about than those little things that distract us in life and get us down.

God tells us in the Bible, ‘Take care of the widows.’ She’s a very young widow, and we hate that she’s in this situation. We have no control over that, but we can walk along beside her.”

For Beth, it is difficult to imagine her dream home becoming a reality without Gale.

“It’s moving to the next step, which I think will help us in the healing process,” she said. “Having a brand-new home and being settled may help us find the ‘new normal.’ I still expect him to walk through the door. All of our dreams are coming true through a nightmare.”

The couple purchased the 85-year-old home before Gale went to Iraq.

“There are so many sounds in this house that are Gale’s,” Beth said. “The way the door would sound when he shut it after he’d come home in the middle of the night. The way his keys would sound when he’d drop them on the island. Our floors aren’t even, and he’d have to kick them to get them back into place. That will be gone. The smells, the sounds, the way

“I HOPE GALE SEES A GLIMPSE OF THIS, BECAUSE HE WOULD BE SO OVERWHELMED WITH HOW EVERYONE IS TAKING CARE OF US.” -BETH STAUFFER

The community is rallying around the family of Gale Stauffer, a Tupelo police officer who was killed while on duty in December. Build for Beth is a communitywide effort to rebuild the home of Gale’s wife, Beth, and children, Dixie and Skip. Businesses and individuals are making donations regularly. Visit facebook.com/buildforbeth for updates.

everything looks will all be different, but we’ll still have all of those memories of him, and we’ll make new memories.”

The outpouring of support has been overwhelming for the family. “I’m so humbled by it all,” Beth said. “We can’t go back in time.

We just have to move forward and have lots of really good fun times in this house. It’s not just bricks, and it’s not just vinyl siding. It’s being built out of love. It’s helping us rebuild our life.

When people are doing this, they’re doing it out of love. That makes it not just a house but a home, which it was. It was always a home. We always saw the potential in it, but it was such an undertaking.”

Tybor and volunteers from as far away as Virginia will begin remodeling the Stauffer home March 22. The project is expected to take two weeks with teams working 16-hour days. There are opportunities for members of

the community to volunteer, and a Facebook page (facebook.com/buildforbeth) is being updated with what kind of help is needed.

“Gale died a hero, and he’ll always be our hero,” Beth said. “I want everyone that has been involved with this whole experience to be here that day when Steve does the reveal.

I hope Gale sees a glimpse of this, because he would be so overwhelmed with how everyone is taking care of us.”

March 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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SHARE YOUR EXCITING

NEWS IN THE 2014

Bridal

ISSUE

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

WEDDING ANNOUNCEMENT 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.

To be included in the Bridal issue, out June 15, all materials must be submitted by May 15.

For more information, please call Hallie at (662) 234-4008 or email hallielandonmarshall@gmail.com.

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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2014

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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2014

Women Leaders

Like the ringmaster of a three-ring circus, each of these women has taken charge of life’s many obligations, successfully juggling home, work, play and more.

by Melanie Crownover photographed by Joe Worthem

Every other year, New Expectations for Women in Mississippi honors area women for their leadership and service. This year’s NEWMS Women of Distinction are Lynda Beverly, Linda Gholston, Rubye Del Harden, Lauren Patterson, Kay Bain and Esther Brown. CATCH Kids Inc. was also recognized as an organization that makes a difference in the community.

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RUBYE DEL HARDEN

P

rofessionals. Volunteers. Community leaders. These women have done it all.

This month, they are honored as Women of Distinction by New Expectations for Women in Mississippi (NEWMS), an organization that promotes leadership, education, philanthropy and health among women in the community.

RUBYE DEL HARDEN AGE: 69 ORIGINS: Fulton, Miss., native who moved to Tupelo 12 years ago DISTINCTIONS: Mississippi Press Association Hall of Fame (2007); Itawamba Community College alumna of the year (2005); Women in Business Advocate of the Year (2003); Mississippi Business Journal Top 50 Business Women (1999); Mississippi Economic Development Volunteer of the Year (1998); founding member of NEWMS; former owner of the Fulton Paper, The Itawamba County Times and The Hamilton Progress; owner of Sprint Print and

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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2014

S.N.A.P., recoverysuperstore.com, The Baldwyn News, The Saltillo Sun, The Dance Studio and Results Inc. Q: What do you think it takes to be a successful business woman?

A: Part of it is believing you can do it and being so determined not to fail that you’re not afraid to ask for help. I was a teacher at a college in south Alabama when my father died, and my sister asked me to come back to Fulton and help with the family paper I later ended up running. I went back and took classes to learn what I needed to know, but I would have been in trouble if it hadn’t been for the loyal crew I had to help me.

Q: How did you get into ballroom dance?

A: I’d always wanted to dance since I was a girl, but my grandmother didn’t believe in it.

Finally, on my mother’s 80th birthday, she said, “You’ve wanted to do this for years. Why don’t

ESTHER BROWN

you learn?” I was in Las Vegas for a business trip on my birthday, and I called the studios there and found a class to take on my break. I fell madly in love with it.

Q: How do organizations like the Tupelo Ballroom Dance Club and studio you helped found affect business in town?

A: Business owners want a cool community with a broad base of offerings, just like visitors.

The more you have around for the families and employees, from retail to education and the arts, the more businesses you attract.

Q: Why is working with the NEWMS Success Skills program so important to you?

A: I’ve seen it change so many lives for the better. We have 10 weeks for them to get to know their strengths and what they want out of life and how to get there. I may have a lot to do, but you never know when someone from that program will turn a corner because of it.

ESTHER BROWN AGE: 79 ORIGINS: Iowa native who moved to Tupelo in 1979 DISTINCTIONS: Longtime real estate agent and broker; founding member of NEWMS; North Mississippi Medical Center Volunteer of the Year (2013); nominee for Mississippi Volunteer of the Year Q: You were one of the first successful Mississippi female realty company owners. How did you see things change during your career?

A: Men were predominantly the managers and broker owners in the business and women were the salespeople, but I worked my way up from sales to a broker owner in 1997 until I retired in 2007. It’s more common now.

Q: What’s your favorite part of volunteering at North Mississippi Medical Center hospital?

A: I work in the gift shop Mondays and at the information desk Tuesdays. I feel like I really do get to help people there, sometimes in emergency situations, to locate and help their loved ones feel better. It’s very rewarding.

My favorite encounter was reading for about six months to a disabled 19-year-old who had been abandoned there and was waiting for the state to claim him. I remember how he was very unhappy at first, but he warmed up when he realized someone cared and would get so excited when I came in.

Q: What made you want to volunteer at the Sanctuary Hospice House store?

A: When I was working at the information desk [in the hospital], the manager of the store’s mother that I used to work with in realty came by to talk and said I should come help there if I had any time left. I’ve been doing that every Friday now for several years.

Q: You worked more than 2,000 volunteer hours at North Mississippi Medical Center alone last year. What do you do when you take a minute for yourself?

A: I like to spend a lot of my extra time working at my church. The rest of my time off is pretty boring. I do laundry, clean the house and love my dog.

March 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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LINDA GHOLSTON

LINDA GHOLSTON AGE: 66 ORIGINS: Baldwyn, Miss., native who has lived in Tupelo since 2005 DISTINCTIONS: Executive director of Sanctuary Hospice House since it opened in 2005; first woman to chair the Mississippi Board of Health; Blue Mountain College Board of Trustees chairwoman; former administrator of Blair E. Batson Hospital for Children and Winfred Wiser Hospital for Women and Infants Q: How did you know you wanted to work in hospital administration?

A: I think early on I knew that I wanted to be of service. I went into nursing and worked my way to administration. It’s been a wonderful

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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2014

career, and I will retire from the best job I’ve ever had here.

Q: What is your personal connection to Blue Mountain College?

A: Blue Mountain gave me direction in life when I graduated from there, and I have never forgotten that.

Q: How did being administrator at the women and children’s hospitals in Jackson, Miss., prepare you for your current role?

A: I came straight from there to here. Looking back now, I remember I was very involved in fundraising. I used to think, “I’m an administrator. Why am I having to do this?” Now I realize God was preparing me for this all along.

LYNDA BEVERLY

Q: Why did you want to advocate for the patients here in north Mississippi?

A: I am from this area, so I knew there was the need for inpatient hospice care even though we’re a rural setting. I was so in awe of the ordinary citizens who took this on with such passion.

Q: What has it been like to help Sanctuary grow?

A: This place gives the patients the care and dignity they need at the end of life and the families the chance to just be families instead of caregivers.

There’s peace in that. Almost every day, someone stops me in the hall and says, “If only we’d had this place 10 years ago when my mama or daddy passed.” It just reinforces the value it has in our community. I love being a part of that.

LYNDA BEVERLY AGE: 75 ORIGINS: Tupelo DISTINCTIONS: Retired teacher; former vice president and president of the Park Hill Neighborhood Association; a member of the steering committee for the biannual Carver High School reunion; volunteer with Northside Boys & Girls Club and Big Brothers Big Sisters; winner of the 2013 S.L. Ratliff Award by Lee County NAACP for her efforts as an educator Q: Why did you receive a 2013 award from the local NAACP? A: I spent my life teaching. I started in this area at Carver and Shannon, Brookhaven and Picayune. Then I taught English in Chicago for 33 years. Chicago was too fast for me, so I came back here to care for my mother in 1999.

Even then I tutored with the Northside Boys & Girls Club.

Q: What is Green Grove Park?

A: That was one of the biggest projects we took on while I was over the neighborhood association. I got poison ivy all over me helping make that place. Now it’s a gathering place for the whole Park Hill community.

Q: What do you do with Park Hill’s Lively Hearts seniors group?

A: That’s a fellowship for Park Hill seniors that I coordinate. We exercise a bit together, get people to come in and talk to us about things we need to know about like Medicare, and a lot of the time we all bring a dish and play bingo.

It keeps us old folks busy.

Q: Why were you so involved in the upkeep of the Class of 1946 and 1947 inscription on the gates to Carver School?

A: I didn’t just teach there; I graduated high school there. Carver has a legacy. When we came along, our teachers cared and mentored us. People don’t focus as much on the value of education now. What we had might have been secondhand, even our books, but we learned that adversity helps you grow. We need to remind ourselves and our community of that.

That’s why the inscription says, “Enter these portals and learn. Depart and give to others.”

March 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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LAUREN PATTERSON

LAUREN PATTERSON AGE: 66 ORIGINS: Tupelo DISTINCTIONS: Longtime Sanctuary Hospice House board member and volunteer; coordinates meal delivery and sitter service for the elderly at Harrisburg Baptist Church; drives the elderly to appointments Q: When did volunteering become an important part of your life?

A: I can remember my mother carrying food to the elderly as a child, so I was exposed to giving at an early age.

Q: What is your role with the meal and sitter program at your church?

A: There was a couple at my church that were on Meals on Wheels five days a week [but not

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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2014

on the weekends]. So we took food to them every Saturday and Sunday for about 20 years.

I would just call people and arrange to have the meals made and delivered to them, and later I ended up doing the same thing to make sure a lady who had multiple sclerosis at church would have church members to come sit with her on Wednesdays and Sundays because she couldn’t attend.

Q: How did you get involved with Sanctuary?

A: I’ve been on the board since the beginning because I had an aunt who died alone in the hospital with ovarian cancer. I mainly work on the grounds putting in flowers and making the outside look nice, but my work is only a very small part. There are so many wonderful people who donate their time there because it’s such a wonderful place.

KAY BAIN

Q: Why did you decide to begin driving the elderly for their errands and appointments?

A: There are so many older people who just have no way to get to all the places they need to go. I have two 96-year-old ladies, one 90-yearold lady and my 92-year-old mother now that I [drive] to the doctor, grocery store, pharmacy and beauty shop each week.

Q: People who know you say you’re very behindthe-scenes with your giving. Why? A: I don’t think giving is supposed to be about any limelight; it’s supposed to be about the need. God tells us to do and reach out to people without thinking about how it will affect us. Most of what I do is just setting the groundwork for others to be able to give. It’s not a big deal.

KAY BAIN AGE: 76 ORIGINS: Corinth, Miss., native who has lived in Tupelo since 1978 DISTINCTIONS: Host of Mornin’ and Kay Bain’s Saturday Mornin’ Show since 1957; works with senior citizens through the Three Rivers Area Agency on Aging; has supported hundreds of charitable organizations and performed at numerous fundraisers Q: How did Mornin’ affect your career?

A: I did that show five days a week for 29 years, but now I just do it on Saturdays. It’s been a wonderful opportunity, and the people at WTVA have treated us like family.

Q: Was it hard to carry on with the show alone?

A: It was very hard. [My husband] Buddy and I did the show together for so long. He’d had a [minor] heart attack 10 years before he died, and I think he asked me every day for three months if I would promise him I would keep on performing when the time came because he knew I would be miserable if I didn’t. I took off a week to take care of things after [he died] and went back to work. That first day, the producer told me we could go to commercial break if I started crying during the show. I did have to stop once to catch my breath, but I didn’t break down. It got easier every day after that, but being alone is still hard after 16 years.

Where the best is affordable

Q: When did service to seniors come in?

A: It’s become my life ministry. We did shows at the nursing homes even when we were still in Corinth, starting when I was 13. Sixty years later, I’m still doing it through Three Rivers.

I started working part time with them after Buddy died. They serve eight counties, so I’m at different nursing homes just about every day.

Q: So there’s no retirement on the horizon for you?

A: Oh, no! As long as I’m able to get out and go, there are no plans for that. I love performing and helping people, and if I can help someone by performing that’s a blessing to both of us. I pray I never get to the point that I can’t do that anymore.

Tupelo, MS. 308 South Spring Street 662.842.4061 www.kirkseybrothers.com March 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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CATCH Kids Inc.

VALERIE LONG EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF CATCH KIDS INC.

CATCH KIDS INC. NEWMS also honors one organization for making a difference in the community. This year, the distinction goes to Community Access To Child Health (CATCH) Kids Inc., a free children’s health clinic.

CATCH Kids Inc. has provided free medical care, restorative dental care and medicine to disadvantaged children ages 18 and under in Lee, Pontotoc and Chickasaw counties since 1998.

There are no financial prerequisites for patients to qualify for treatment. Instead, the care is based upon what program coordinators call “barriers to care.”

“Children tend to fall through the cracks,” Executive Director Valerie Long said. “They shouldn’t have to wait until the weekend to see a doctor because if Mom takes off work she’ll lose her job or not be able to get any medicine until the paycheck comes in on Friday. There’s such a need for this in our community because there are so many reasons care

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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2014

is just not accessible for some kids.”

CATCH Kids Inc., a nonprofit organization, treated 495 local children last year and provided another 27 with dental services, helping the majority find permanent medical homes with a provider in the area.

Each county has its own clinic that is open at least one day per week from 5 to 7 p.m. There are two treatment facilities in Tupelo: The clinic at 1616 N. Green St. is open on Mondays and Thursdays, and the clinic at Morningstar Baptist Church in Haven Acres is open on Tuesdays. The Okolona clinic at 230 W. Main St. is open on Thursdays, and the Pontotoc clinic in the GW Gilliam Building is open on Mondays.

“Most of these doctors and nurses get off their jobs where they’ve worked all day and come to see these kids voluntarily. That’s a very special thing,” said Long, a nurse practitioner who also volunteers at the clinic.

“Without this program, there would be a lot of sick and hurting children around here who couldn’t get help.”

IN & TANN

As the area’s premier events magazine, we get invited to all the best parties, fundraisers, sporting events and general good times. When you follow Invitation Tupelo on Facebook and Twitter, you’ll get updates on all the latest events and stay in the know.

Click “Like” at facebook.com/invitationtupelo Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/invtupelo

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events Florida Georgia Line Concert View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

Country duo Florida Georgia Line performed Feb. 13 at BancorpSouth Arena as part of its Night Train Tour. Upcoming concerts at BancorpSouth include Elton John March 19 and Christian rock band Casting Crowns April 18. Visit bcsarena.com for a full schedule.

Samantha Tyler and Derik Drewett

Corey Tackitt, Danielle Crutchfield, Jim Roberts and Jade Allyn Buse

Stacia and Tony Akins

Jennifer Ham and Kenzie Pennington

Brittany Scott and Lorin Castell

Melissa McKinney and Jackie Ward

Amy Trapp and Jill Richey

Scott, Karen, Drew and Logan Medlock

Paige Wood with Dustin and Brandon Kirk and Katie Philip

Cassie Rogers and Brittany Ashley with Alex and Andrew Lindley

Kelly Scott and Kyle Weaver with Shawn and Kelly Brown and Katie Fulmer

Cheyenne Leonard, Anna Kate Nelson, Victoria Fetter and Molly Norris

Ben Ford, Brittany Scott, LeAnn Ladner, Lesley Scott and Matt Anderson

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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2014

photographed by Lisa Roberts

Kayce McKee with Alayna and Carla Parker

Kaylee Prescott and Kylie Franks

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Drapery & Upholstery Fabrics • Reclaimed Wood Furniture • Custom Drapery Hardware • Trims & Tassels • Feather Pillow Inserts • Custom Upholstery Furniture • Vast Selection of Rugs WHOLESALE PRICES AND BELOW. EVERYDAY! 1727 McCullough Blvd. Tupelo, MS 662-841-2621 Mica Johnson, Allen Saffold and Kayla Savage

Justin and Carrie Higgins with Savannah Sanders March 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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photographed by Samantha Kalahar

events Evening of Jazz View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

The Northeast Mississippi Chapter of the American Red Cross hosted its seventh-annual Evening of Jazz featuring Grady Nichols on Jan. 25 at the Summit Center. All proceeds benefited the Red Cross, which relies on community donations to support its mission.

Cathy Williams and Sonya Marbry

Vannie Cobb and Tamara Waldrop

Patty and William Tucker

Frederick and Bessie Hardy

Sabrina Martin and Earl Jones

Scotty Allred, Brenda Stanley and Patty Funderburk

Rev. O. J. and Dr. Â Denecise Salters

Arlis and Karla Rucker with Marjorie Brown

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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2014

Art Rocks Tupelo TUPELO, MISSISSIPPI

ERTS FILM

AL ARTS U S I

NC

NCE CO DA

AT THE RE V 2nd Annual

Art Rocks Tupelo March 18-22

Tupelo Concert Association: John Berry March 18, 7:30pm • Tupelo Civic Auditorium

Elton John in Concert

March 19, 8pm • BancorpSouth Arena

Tupelo Film Alliance: Muscle Shoals Film Screening March 20, 7pm • Malco Tupelo

Tupelo Community Theatre: The Importance of Being Earnest

March 20-22, 7:30pm; March 22, 2pm • Lyric Theatre

GumTree Museum of Art: Exhibit and Reception

March 21, 6pm to 7:30pm • Gumtree Museum

Downtown Tupelo Main Street Association: Tupelo Craft Beer Festival March 22, noon to 5pm • Fairpark

Tupelo Ballet: Les Sylphides and Contemporary Repertoire March 22, 2pm • Tupelo Civic Auditorium

North Mississippi Symphony Orchestra: Romantic Gems March 22, 7:30pm • Link Centre Concert Hall

*Pre-concert dinner at 5:30pm in the Link Centre Reception Hall*

Plus events from The Caron Gallery, Pied Piper Players, West of Shake Rag, UU Congregation of Tupelo, and more!

www.ArtRocksTupelo.com

662-690-4011

This project is partially funded by the Tupelo Convention & Visitors Bureau.

March 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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photographed by Lisa Roberts

events Mardi Gras Party View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

Nautical Whimsey threw its fourth-annual Mardi Gras Party March 1. The party featured Cajun food, colorful beads, Zydeco music and a live show by the band Proximity Rule.

Rosland McDivitt and Debra McHann with Amanda and Brian McDivitt

Jeffery and Carolyn Green with Emily and Scott Floyd

Cain Havens and Mark Prince

William Goss and Amanda Lackey

Sara and Marie Dempsey

Scotty and Renee Hughes

Taylor Ray and Emma Earwood

Carrie White, Andi White and Melissa Bickes

Denise and Jerry Ray

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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2014

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photographed by Lisa Roberts

events Silence Hides Violence 5K View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

Shelter and Assistance in Family Emergencies (S.A.F.E.) Inc. held the Silence Hides Violence 5K race Feb. 15 in Ballard Park. S.A.F.E. offers support to victims of domestic violence through a 24-hour phone line, a shelter, counseling services, support groups and more.

Kristi Beckish, Catherine Cottingham, Matthew Foster, Meagan Senter and Stephanie May

Lisa, Jack and Carlye Hofmister

Kim and Sondra Waldrop

Rebecca McDougald, Melissa Stanford, Susan Naron and Dena Waldo

Helen McDougald, Wanda Faye Brown and Tiffany Scales

Curt Sparks and Bethany Cates

Stephanie Weil, Melissa Owens and Kathy Mancill

Kealy Shields and Crystal Barnes

Sharron Westmoreland and Bethanie Ladd

Diamond Brokers TUPELO

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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2014

In-Home Senior Care Services

Julie Mitchell

Dawn Baker

Free in-home assessments (662) 841-8477

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March 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2014

photographed by Lisa Roberts

events Business After Hours View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

The Community Development Foundation (CDF) held its Business After Hours networking event Feb. 20 at Carlock Toyota of Tupelo.

CDF’s next Business After Hours event takes place at 5 p.m. April 3 at Snelling Staffing Services. Visit cdfms.org for more information.

Reagan Wise, Rashni Barath, Tiffany Stone, Jazmen Haygood and Stacey Loden

Emily Mowers, Lauren McLaughlin, Rufus Van Horn, Jesse Bandre and Amanda Angle

Jerome Sheffield and Ellen Kennedy

Leah Sheffield and Andi Parker

Cheryl Henning, Susan Fair and Pansey Bradley

Jason and Denise Brown

March 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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Catering Good Eats

Small and large events across North Mississippi Weddings • Rehearsal Dinners 662-534-3250 New Albany, MS

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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2014

She has a full-time day job and is raising two children, but Haley Russell still found time to turn her furniturerefurbishing hobby into a business.

by Melanie Crownover photographed by Joe Worthem

H

aley Russell’s interest in giving new life to old furniture began by helping her father when she was a child. Then she redid her own daughter’s dresser five years ago.

“So many people go out and buy something new when they’re sick of looking at a piece, but I’m a single mom who can’t afford that, and it was my great-grandmother’s,” she said. “I started thinking about how my dad would make things new with a coat of paint or a simple build. Then I got hooked.”

Her son’s dresser was next. End tables followed, and then some smaller household items got a fresh face. Russell developed a keen sense of which colors should go where on a piece, which paints and stains work best together and how to sand in places where natural distressing would happen.

She sold her first piece in 2007 after a friend gave her a china cabinet with stapled metal and wood doors that was headed for the dump. Even then, she didn’t give much thought to her hobby becoming a business.

“It’s always been more of a therapeutic thing for me,” Russell said. “I’ve been through a lot in the past several years, but this was something that I could be in complete control of and change while taking out some of that stress. It never occurred to me that this could

Haley Russell started refurbishing furniture to freshen up her daughter’s old dresser and found it to be therapeutic. Demand from friends and family has unexpectedly turned her hobby into a business venture.

March 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

53

“I know when someone brings something to me, it’s a piece they’ve had that means something to them ... That’s why I put so much creativity and thought and effort into each piece.”

—Haley Russell

be a money maker for our family.”

Opportunity knocked when she returned to her hometown of Tupelo in 2009. By then word had traveled that Russell had a knack for fixing up furniture, and some family and friends were ready to pay her to reinvent their pieces. Soon, co-workers, clients and friends of friends were lining up with furniture for her to refinish.

When Russell began posting project updates on Facebook and Instagram, requests for her services surged.

Russell’s garage and shed are now workspaces where she constantly rotates three to five pieces of furniture. One day she updates an early-1900s kitchen table with a modern robin’s-egg blue paint and maple stain; the next, she distresses a new dresser to make it look 50 years older.

Along with the refurbished pieces are some she’s built herself, including pallet swings and wood tables.

Working on furniture has become part of her evening routine – after she gets home

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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2014

from her full-time day job (as an aesthetician at Tupelo Plastic Surgery Center, where some clients joke that she “sands” their faces as finely as she does her furniture) and helps her children with homework, dinner, baths and bedtime.

From midnight to 3 a.m., Russell can be found sanding, brushing and distressing. During her lunch break, it’s not unusual for her to stop at home to put an extra coat of polyurethane on a piece that’s going to its owner the next day.

It’s become a routine that Russell doesn’t see as a chore.

“It’s kind of addictive because once I start on a project it’s hard to quit until it’s finished,” Russell said. “I know when someone brings something to me, it’s a piece they’ve had that means something to them. I want to make that something new for them that they can fall in love with all over again, but with that same history and meaning. That’s why I put so much creativity and thought and effort into each piece.”

To see more of Russell’s work, visit facebook .com/apaintedtable.haley.

In addition to sanding, painting and distressing furniture to change the way it looks, Haley Russell has also built some of her own pieces, including pallet swings and tables.

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New Albany

Home & Garden Show April 4 & 5

Union County Fairgrounds

for schedule visit www.newalbanygardening.com For more information call 662-534-3438 March 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

55

The Thrill OF THE

CHASE

A group of storm trackers is working to make north Mississippians safer in the face of dangerous weather.

by Melanie Crownover photographed by Joe Worthem

M

ost people take cover when bad weather is forecast. Jay Robertson heads toward the storm.

Robertson (pictured near right) had a close call with a life-threatening storm in 2008. He had been storm spotting as an amateur for years, but the personal experience led him to take up weather watching in a more official capacity.

“I was standing in the doorway of the day care with my 4-year-old son when I saw this large wedge tornado with F3 winds pass over the airport just above the rooftops,” he said. “I just closed the door and started praying because I knew we were dead. It ended up sliding one block over, but I don’t sleep through a thunderstorm anymore.”

Robertson is now director of North Mississippi Storm Chasers and Spotters. The 30-member weather-tracking organization

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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2014

aims to keep the people of north Mississippi, northwest Alabama and the Memphis area safer during inclement weather.

When Robertson joined NMSCAS in 2011, the group had just two other members and had just started to connect storm spotters with storm chasers to better serve the public.

Storm spotters watch storms from relatively safe distances primarily to report potential damage, while storm chasers actually hit the road to pursue storms and warn people potentially in the path of destruction. The founders thought coordinating local trackers to work together could make their jobs safer and produce moreaccurate reports.

Robertson started as a spotter and moved up to a chaser after a year, a promotion 10 NMSCAS members have attained after completing the group’s online training in weather

background, radar reading, photo documentation and reporting. The job is a dangerous one, but chasers adhere to many NMSCAS safety regulations: They keep a 2-mile span between themselves and a tornado; they have a chasing buddy; they let the crew watching the radar know where they’re tracking; and they always have an escape route.

In an area frequently avoided by professional chasers because of the dangerous low visibility of the hilly and tree-lined landscape, Robertson said such rules help keep them safe even during an adrenaline-fueled storm chase.

Robertson’s 1998 Suburban SUV is the group’s primary mode of transportation for chasing storms. The fire-engine red truck is plated with ballistic armor strong enough to withstand damage from projectiles, and the body is reinforced with a roll cage inspired by

March 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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North Mississippi Storm Chasers and Spotters, including Jay Robertson and Dean Meeks (pictured on previous page), track inclement weather to alert people to dangerous conditions, to report damage caused by storms, and to assist in recovery efforts. Much of their work is done from Robertson’s SUV, which is reinforced with protective armor and equipped with radar.

monster trucks. The interior holds emergency backpacks, a computer network equipped with radar and a weapons storage compartment stocked for martial law. Shatterproof glass windows and flashing red lights complete the practically indestructible vehicle.

“We have other trucks to chase in, but this is our workhorse. If we have to chain that baby up in a parking garage in hurricane season and stay in it to ride out a storm, we have to know it can take it,” Robertson, who owns an auto body shop, said. “Luckily, I know a little about fixing up cars.”

Dean Meeks, a meteorology major at Mississippi State University who has been an NMSCAS spotter for almost a year, often rides along as navigator in Robertson’s truck.

“We usually have four people in the truck: two people in the back watching the radar, a good driver and one navigator helping direct him through the storm,” Meeks said. “I know

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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2014

one day this is going to make me a better weatherman. People think you’re crazy for riding out after a tornado, but there is a safe way to do it. And letting people know what’s coming at them can help save lives.”

NMSCAS reports go immediately from the field to the National Weather Service and the team’s local partners at WTVA news station, where Meeks also works as an intern in the weather room.

Almost half of the weather photos shown on the air come from NMSCAS members.

Their teams were the first to report the 2013 tornado on the ground in Hattiesburg, Miss.

They were first on the scene during the Reform, Ala., tornado in 2011, and Meeks skipped a meteorology class last April to help send in the first photos of damage from the Shuqualak, Miss., tornado.

The group also takes part in recovery following severe weather. Members note and

photograph downed power lines or tree limbs and damaged homes or businesses while they’re tracking and share the information with the American Red Cross. NMSCAS reports helped the disaster-relief organization decrease their post-severe-weather response time by a whole day in 2012 and got them a new volunteer in Meeks.

“My need to help keep people informed got me past my fear of lightning to chasing storms,” Meeks said. “But after I saw up close how much people’s lives are affected when the storm is through, I had to sign up.”

That concern for the local community is something Robertson sees in all NMSCAS members.

“I won’t say what we do isn’t risky, but it’s worth it,” Robertson said. “There are close calls in any job. We’re not out there to try and be heroes. We just want to help keep our neighbors safe.”

IS YOUR MAGAZINE

We want to hear your story ideas!

“For The Neatest Yard Around” If you can dream it, we can install it, or we can even dream it for you.

662.844.6539

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Do you have a friend we should write about? Are you part of an organization that deserves a story? Is there a picture-perfect place we should photograph?

Submit story ideas to us at erwelly@gmail.com or by calling (662) 234-4008.

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events Harlem Globetrotters View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

The Harlem Globetrotters took to the court Feb. 26 at BancorpSouth Arena. The traveling exhibition basketball team mixes athletic skill with theatrics and comedy and has been performing for fans since the 1920s.

Hagen, Craig, Mollie, Hudson and Hannah White

Jason, Jack, Silas and Richard Herring

Roy Cole, Cayden and Jayvion Blanchard

Chris Ball and Autry Barry with Owen and Debra Riley

Hudson and Denise Jennings with Whit Fountain, Kathy Allen and Collins Blackburn

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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2014

Mary, Kaelyn and David Thomas

Tina, Walker and Lea Harkness with Mason Tate

photographed by Lisa Roberts

Kevin and Kason Stewart

Sandra Stevens and Carole Doughty

Cole Melear and Ashton Witt

March 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

61

photographed by Lisa Roberts

events Snowflake Ball View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

The New Albany Pilot Club’s annual father-daughter Snowflake Ball was held March 1 at First United Methodist Church in New Albany. Girls and their dads dressed up for dinner, activities and dancing.

Camryn and Michael Rainwater

Chris Bullock, Emma Carter, Sammi Jo and PJ Doyle

Emily and Jaysen Manning

Larry Pannell and Annsley Coleman

Max and Lilly Miller

Eric and Kera Hall

Hannah Merritt and Chris Kennedy

Molly Addison and Ron Price

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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2014

Brad and Alyssa Bogue

Elizabeth, Lance and Maggie Moore

Endocrine & Metabolic Disorders Institute, PLLC Jayant Dey, M.D., M.B.B.S. Nancy Hooks, C.N.P. 910 Mary Vance Drive Tupelo, Mississippi 38801

Phone:

662.377.6275

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EVERYONE

NEEDS A HELPING HAND SOMETIMES

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

March 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

63

events Tupelo Furniture Market Spring Market View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

Tupelo Furniture Market’s Feb. 6-9 Spring Market brought furniture exhibitors and buyers to Tupelo for one of the biggest furniture exhibits in the region. The 2014 Fall Market will be held Aug. 14-17. Visit tupelofurnituremarket.com for more information.

Sarah and Claude Hatley with Joyce Collins, Barbara Garrison and David Sleep

Candi Hall, Debbie Henry, Leah McDonald, Katie Taylor and Vicki Hitchcock

Haley Stephens and Brittni Sparks

Georgia Kate Mills and Mallory Causey

Dan Payne and Buddy Fairly

Sonia Alford and Twana Miller

Debbie Crabb, Deborah Gardner and Sharon Jenkins

Haylee Smith, Renee White and Kenzie Pennington

Kevin Caldwell, Rachel Cash and Neil Alford

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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2014

photographed by Lisa Roberts

Joyce Weed, Kay Pittman and Judy Ladd

Lauren Byrd and Judy Daniels

662-844-2477 431 North Gloster St. Tupelo, MS www.shearenvytupelo.com

Reese and Meg Moore March 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

65

photographed by Lisa Roberts

events Super Bowl Party View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

Football fans gathered Feb. 2 at Natchez Trace Golf Club for a Super Bowl party. The Seattle Seahawks beat the Denver Broncos 43-8 in Super Bowl XLVIII at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.

Britt and Bronzie Harris

Scott and Shannon Wood with Mitch Keyes

Tony and Nina Willis

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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2014

Patsy Thompson, Bo Bain, Kim Wade, Moe Livingston, Jim Long and Cora Polson

Mark and Amanda May with Alicia and Greg McKissick

Valerie and Marla Voyles

Boyce and Cindy Googe

Jerry Cowley and Cindy Evans

Margaret Morris and Bill Brewer

Benny and Rosalyn Campbell

photographed by Lisa Roberts

events Swimming Short Course State Championship View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.

Tupelo’s Shockwave swim team hosted the 2014 Mississippi Swimming Inc. Short Course State Championship meet Feb. 27-March 2 at Tupelo Aquatic Center, which officially opened in December. Visit tupeloaquatics.com for more information.

Caroline Pack and Kaitlyn Reeves

Emily Herrington, Mayrant and Wilkie Gonwa, Natalie Cox and Paige Liburd

Morgan Eguia and Moses Williams

Harrison Whitaker, Drew Sullivan, Ross Weeden and Donovan Crossen

Shannon, Whitney and Chris Lewis

Anna Chris Nicholes with Olivia and Jas Smith, Blake Peeples, Warren Russ and Tori Evans

Liam Manning, Rachel Dees, Chelsie Gray and Jake Hughes

MUSTARD

PIE

1008 COMMONWEALTH BLVD. TUPELO, MS March 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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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

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

662-680-4506

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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2014

PATTERN A Tupelo organization that teaches women professional and life skills helps them find not only employment but also empowerment.

by Melanie Crownover photographed by Joe Worthem

Diane Souter, above, works on a quilt that she started in September when she enrolled as a student at Tupelo’s Christian Women’s Job Corps. The organization teaches women job and life skills to help them find employment. Projects like Souter’s quilt encourage commitment and dedication, qualities that can be invaluable in a job search.

D

iane Souter stretches across a clothcovered table, knotting pieces of yarn onto a full-size tie quilt she’s been working on since September. She has spent more than 120 hours on the piece so far, and she still has work to do on it, but Souter won’t give up.

“My 11-year-old grandson who lives with me has already claimed this one, but I’ll get [it] done now that I know how to do it,” Souter said.

She gained her “knowledge is power” attitude by participating in the Christian Women’s Job Corps (CWJC) in Tupelo, a local branch of

a nationwide initiative to provide relevant job and life skills with biblical teachings to women in need.

This branch is the longest-running of the organization’s 19 sites in Mississippi. Thousands of women have passed through the 10week program since the first graduate finished at First Baptist Church in 1998.

Quilting is just one skill Souter, 56, has learned at CWJC. She has also taken courses on typing, résumé writing, dressing for a business environment and job-interview preparation. The classes run from Monday through Wednesday in the fall and spring, keeping

students busy from the 8:30 a.m. devotional until the 2:30 p.m. pre-closing cleanup.

There’s no charge for the education. The students reimburse the volunteers who run the school by giving something back to the organization, whether it’s in the form of cleaning coffee cups in the kitchen or volunteering after their time at CWJC is done.

“So many of our ladies come here not just unemployed but struggling with a need for social skills, education and the confidence lost in dysfunctional family dynamics. You can only hear that you’re not good enough and you can’t for so long before you start to believe it,” March 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

69

CWJC Executive Director Cathy Davis, pictured top left, has seen women benefit not only from job-skills training but also from Bible study and volunteering, which help students develop social skills and instills confidence. Classes on typing, résumé writing, dressing for a business environment and job-interview preparation are also part of the CWJC curriculum.

said Cathy Davis, executive director.

Souter worked for 10 years in a customer service manager position with a national retail store until she lost the job due to disability.

A newspaper ad brought her to the CWJC’s learning center in Spanish Village.

“I still have that ad at my house,” she said.

“It said something about if you needed to find your way to come here, and I called that day.

The Lord has been opening doors in my life and opening my eyes ever since.”

Souter’s fall class had five students. Three

70

INVITATION TUPELO | March 2014

of those women are working full time now; the fourth works part time and volunteers. They are still in the mentoring phase of the program, a continuation that pairs each woman with a person to act as part cheerleader, part accountability partner for six months following graduation.

The job market hasn’t been as hospitable to Souter, who continues coming back to finish the quilting project most of her classmates left undone when they completed their courses in December.

“We see a woman here who is committed to a task and dedicated herself to doing what it takes to finish. That’s an admirable trait that could make a big difference in finding a job that will last,” Davis said. “She may not have seen it yet, but I know God has a plan for her.”

CWJC’s spring orientation is March 17 and 18 from 9 a.m. to noon and March 19 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Classes begin March 24. Call 662840-9007 for information. The organization is looking for volunteers to start a similar program for men in the near future.

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

Now !

Open 662.284.9468 Hours:

Mon-Thurs 9-6 Fri-Sat 9-8 2107 S. Harper Road Corinth, MS 38834

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

When you think of jewelry, think of STONES Ripley, Mississippi 101 Hospital St.

662.837.4215

Tupelo, Mississippi 709 West Main

662.844.9444

March 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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out and about

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1. Sallie Belle Howell, Jennie Bradford Curlee, Anna Moore, Carley Johnson and Carrie Hurst at Parkgate’s Feb. 13 Live and Love annual banquet. 2. Marvin and Celia McWhorter at Live and Love. 3. Carolyn and Jeff Green at Live and Love. 4. Laken Donahue and Vicki Jarrett with Jennifer and Sean Milner at Belk’s Feb. 16 bridal engagement party. 5. Laura and Denise Fava with Mary Christopher at Belk’s bridal engagement party. 6. Lexie Freeman, Laura Thompson and Cassidy Brophy at North Mississippi Symphony Orchestra’s Feb. 21 children’s concert. 7. Shahzadi Padda, Ana Cristal and Tyler Thompson at NMSO’s children’s concert. 8. Jimmy Ray Parish, Jennifer Shadburn and Katie Bostick at the Mississippi Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association Conference and Trade Show, held Feb. 6-7 at Lee County Agri-Center. 9. John Gannon with Paula and Jackson Cox and Madison Grammer at Healthworks! 5th birthday party celebrated on Feb. 1. 10. Chapman Hill and Abby Wallace at Healthworks! 5th birthday party. 11. Jon and Anna Justice with Snowball and Snowbell at the Feb. 15 Krewe of Barkus dog parade to benefit the Tupelo Bark Park. 12. Krissy and Danny Noble with Harper and Lily at the Krewe of Barkus dog parade. 13. Shanta Eiland and Alex Farned at the Krewe of Barkus dog parade. 14. Daisy Aycock, Ashley Snyder holding Gracie, Bethany Rogers and Doris Riddle at the Feb. 8 launch of Aycock’s book, Letters

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12

Animal Ca of Tupelo

Animal Care Center

13

of Tupelo

Animal Care Center “your other family doctor” of Tupelo

14 (662) 842-8707 5362 Cliff Gookin Blvd.

Tupelo, MS 38801 www.animalcarecenteroftupelo.net

15 from Gracie. Proceeds from the book will go to Tupelo-Lee Humane Society. 15. Davis Miller, Nyanaiee Brown, Bailey Davidson, Ben Waters and Nate Turner with Dr. Caron and Dr. Kenney during Tupelo Smiles’ Children’s Dental Health Month event held Feb. 18 at Parkway Elementary School.

HopHopHop

on over to The Shoe Box for all your Easter Shoe needs.

* * * * * *

A New Kids Shoe Store in Tupelo

662-350-3355

319 1/2 South Gloster Street, Tupelo, MS 38801 March 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

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out and about

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16. Janice Cosey, Marcy Jamison, Judy Duncan, Keldja Whitfield, Twyla Crayton, VerLena Spence, Quinisha Logan, Erica Golden and Stella Johnson at the Tupelo alumnae chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc.’s Parade of Pearls Revue Peppermint Brunch on Feb. 22 at People’s Community Baptist Church. 17. MaKenzie Tate, Gabby Golden, T’Ajahlon White, Trinity Jones, Kaiyah Ruth and Nia McCoy at the Delta Sigma Theta Peppermint Brunch. 18. Mayor Jason Shelton with Priscilla Presley and Brandon Presley, public service commissioner, at a Feb. 22 ceremony at the Elvis Birth Place to make Priscilla Presley an honorary citizen of the city of Tupelo. 19. Susan Mitchell, Charlie Watson, Donna Kay Randle and Guy Harris at the honorary citizen ceremony for Priscilla Presley. 20. Beverly Williams and Kinsley Patterson at the Feb. 22 Macaroni Kid Baby Brunch event at Tupelo Christian Preparatory School. 21. Kim Hopmann, Toni Hill, Rebecca Cook, Hannah Ring and Amanda Bannon at the Macaroni Kid Baby Brunch event. 22. Bill Johnson, Johnny Timmons, Chauncy Godwin and Glenn McCollough at TVA’s 80th anniversary reception on Feb. 6 at the Elvis Presley Birthplace. 23. Justin Maierhofer and Amy Tate at TVA’s 80th anniversary reception.

24. Dale Simmons, Kaye Cannon, Mary Ann Plasencia, Brenda Nichols, Brianna Jackson and Brenda Hawkins at Shanti Yoga’s Feb. 20 Third Thursday Karma Yoga event to benefit Tupelo-Lee Humane Society. 25. Brad Miller, Jacob Kent, Dalton Healy, Gordon Lee and Fred Pitts at the Feb. 20 opening of Spring Street Cigar. 26. Kyle Park and Tames Clements

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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2014

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

27

408 Washington Street, Booneville, MS 38829

662.728.4788

M-F 9-6 • Sat 9-2

28

29 86 S. Thomas St. 662.620.1120

30 at Pied Piper Players’ Feb. 21 performance of MacBeth at Milam Auditorium. 27. Tory Fox, Emma McCormick, Landon Craig and Tyler Swinney at Pied Piper Players’ MacBeth. 28. Greg, Noel, Susie, Eric and Harold Morgan at the Feb. 27 ribbon cutting for About the South.

29. Thomas Harrison, Jamie Young and Norm Rush at a Feb. 25 wine tasting at South Restaurant. 30. Gil and Ann Monaghan with Barbara and James Presley at a wine tasting at South Restaurant.

3425 W. Main St. Opening May 2014

GREAT THINGS HAPPEN WHEN YOU

901 S. Gloster St. Opening Soon

september 2012

june/july 2013

may 2013

ADVERTISE IN annual combined Tupelo and Oxford issue

Bridal issue

Call Cindy Semmes, Director of Advertising, for more information at (662) 701-8070.

March 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

75

PETS of the Month

There are lots of ways to help the Tupelo-Lee Humane Society (TLHS). Molly, Abigail, Zane and Tiger, as well as dozens of other animals are ready to be adopted. Go see them at 2400 S. Gloster St., or visit tuploleehumane.org to make a donation.

ABIGAIL

PHOTOGRAPHED BY LISA ROBERTS

MOLLY

ZANE

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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2014

TIGER

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

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

662-489-1074 346-A West Oxford St. Pontotoc, Ms Monday- Saturday 10a.m.-5p.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 March 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

77

IN SEASON Cabbage recipes and photographs by Kimme Hargrove

C

abbage can be found in grocery stores year-round, and it is grown locally in the spring and fall when temperatures are still cool. For a fresh, colorful spring meal, pair this cabbage-cilantro slaw with chili-cumin baked fish and cilantro-lime sour cream for fish tacos that are sure to be a house favorite.

Cabbage-Cilantro Slaw ½ head green cabbage, shredded ½ bunch fresh cilantro, chopped 2 green onions, chopped 1 Tablespoon lime juice 1 cup grape tomatoes, cut in half lengthwise 1 Tablespoon olive oil Salt and pepper to taste 1-2 jalapeños, diced (optional)

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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2014

Cilantro-Lime Sour Cream 8 ounces sour cream or plain Greek yogurt ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro 1 Tablespoon lime juice 1 jalapeño, diced (optional)

Chili-Cumin Baked Fish 1 pound flaky white fish (such as bass, red snapper, grouper or tilapia) 1 Tablespoon olive oil 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon chili powder Salt and pepper to taste Flour tortillas Shredded cheese Preheat oven to 350°F. Mix all slaw ingredients, and store in refrigerator until ready to serve. Separately, mix all sour cream ingredients, and store in refrigerator until ready to serve.

Place fish on baking pan. Brush with olive oil. Season both sides with cumin, chili powder, salt and pepper. Bake fish 15-20 minutes or until flaky. While still in juices, flake with a fork.

Warm stacked tortillas in microwave for 30 seconds, and then fill with fish, slaw and sour cream. Sprinkle with cheese. Serves 4.

313 A South Gloster •Tupelo, MS 662- 840-2414

THE SHOE & BOOT OUTLET

1ST QUALITY NAME BRAND SHOES & BOOTS 662-842-4152 • Denton Plaza 357-B S. Gloster • Tupelo, Ms 38801

Coming soon:

Rhubarb Visit the You’re Invited blog at invitationtupelo.com for more of Hargrove’s recipes and featured seasonal ingredients.

March 2014 | INVITATION TUPELO

79

TUPELO SPIRIT Nettie Davis Nettie Davis is the first woman and first African American to serve as president of the Tupelo City Council.

Q: You’ve served on the council for four terms. What did you do before?

A: I taught middle school art in the Tupelo Public School District for 30 years and still work as a professional artist specializing in calligraphy.

Q: Has there been extra pressure as the first woman and African American on the job?

A: Not from anyone but me. The council respects and supports me because of my experience, and I love the challenge. With me being the first, I want to represent and make an impression. I was determined to become president of the council, and that finally happened.

Q: How have opportunities changed for women and minorities here?

A: Tupelo has always been a very open and diverse community, but more opportunities have come open over the years in leadership especially. But we still need more so the students who graduate don’t move away to find them somewhere else and can see that diversity of leadership to encourage them to move ahead.

Q: What do you want your legacy to be?

A: I want to help people and leave the positive imprint to work with all people because every citizen is important. I want people to see that a woman or African American can do as good a job as any other so that there are more opportunities for someone to follow in my footsteps and serve. interviewed by Melanie Crownover photographed by Joe Worthem

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INVITATION TUPELO | March 2014

You know She’s Worth It

The South’s leader in Estate Jewelry and Diamond Solitaires Located in Historic Downtown New Albany, MS

1.866.VANATKINS vanatkins.com