The MAX: PLACE Quarterly_Fall 2021 by Mississippi Arts + Entertainment Experience

Place Mississippi Arts+Entertainment Experience | Fall 2021

From the exhibition From Couture to da’ Streets: The Fashions of Patrick Kelly + Cross Colours

22nd Avenue in downtown Meridian, June 2016.

THE ART OF TR AVEL

Five years ago my wife and I stopped in downtown Meridian. We had attended a family event in South Carolina and were on our way home to Louisiana. At that point, I was considering the President/CEO role with the future Mississippi Arts + Entertainment Experience. On that hot day in June, we parked in front of a bail bonds office which now houses the offices of the East Mississippi Business Development Corporation. Twenty-second Avenue was going through some heavy maintenance and not a soul was strolling the streets, with the exception of a few people going in and out of Weidmann’s Restaurant. Needless to say, it did not look like an appealing place to live and work. However, we saw opportunity for Meridian. Not only would the construction of the new 50-million-dollar museum downtown change the environment, but this investment would help rebuild a neglected downtown. Cultural tourism is motivated by tourists’ interest in historical, artistic, scientific, or heritage offerings of a community, region, group, or institution. Look at Meridian today! Three years after The MAX’s opening, the historic Threefoot building is coming back to life as a boutique hotel in the Marriott chain. Our new Children’s Museum opened just blocks away from The MAX. New restaurants and retail stores are locating downtown. This fall, a beautiful new brewery and pub will open in a remodeled bank. Downtown is bustling with festivals, concerts, and weekend outdoor markets. Many other improvements are on the horizon. Mississippi and Meridian are experiencing a renaissance in cultural tourism. In August, eight art museums throughout Mississippi, including The MAX, promoted a free-admission campaign titled “The Art of Travel” with the goal of driving traffic into our galleries. While the campaign is over we hope you will share details of this and other museums with your out-of-state friends. Let’s show off the riches we share in Mississippi. Regards,

Mark A Tullos Jr. President | CEO The MAX

On the Cover: Behind the scenes photos of Patrick Kelly, Patrick Kelly Archive, Sc MG 631, Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, Manuscripts, Archives and Rare Books Division, The New York Public Library.

Board of Directors Fred Wile, Chair Meridian

Melanie Mitchell, Vice Chair Meridian Marian Barksdale, Secretary Oxford Archie Anderson, Treasurer Starkville Ann Alexander, Past Chair Marion Shawn Brevard, Tupelo Sheryl Davidson, Meridian Tommy Dulaney, Meridian Ralph Eubanks, Washington, DC Veldore Young Graham, Meridian Checky Herrington, Starkville Eddie Kelly, Bay St. Louis Annie McMillan, Meridian Dede Mogollon, Meridian Sammy Moon, Jackson Joe Norwood, Meridian Caroline Cannada Rush, Meridian Billy Thornton, Gulfport Duffee Williams, Meridian Kelly Swain, Meridian Millie Swan, Hattiesburg

You can help select The MAX Hall of Fame 2022 inductees. Cast your vote now! In The MAX Hall of Fame, we honor Mississippi’s artists, musicians, authors, and those who have made significant cultural impacts here at home and around the world. Who has inspired you? Who do you feel deserves to be honored?

Laura Carmichael (Ex-Officio) Director Emeriti Fred Cannon Billy Estes Alan Lamar

Visit msarts.org and cast your vote for the five artists to be inducted into The MAX Hall of Fame in 2022. Mississippi Arts + Entertainment Experience 2155 Front Street Meridian, MS 39301 601-581-1550 msarts.org

Voting ends Friday, October 15, 2021. The five inductees will be announced on December 16, 2021 and inducted into the Hall of Fame on December 15, 2022. You can vote once a day for five nominees.

By Stacey Wilson, MAX Curator of Exhibitions

Cross Colours Ad, ca 1992, photographer Michael Segal, courtesy of the Cross Colours Archives. 2

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On View September 4, 2021–January 8, 2022

From Couture to da’ Streets: The Fashions of Patrick Kelly + Cross Colours “I’ve got hopes, I’ve got dreams, and I have aspirations. I don’t need to climb mountains; I don’t need to build nations. What I do need is the courage to look deep inside…” —Patrick Kelly Patrick Kelly and Thomas “TJ” Walker have three attributes in common—they are both native Mississippians, fashion designers, and most importantly, each flourished in adversity. Mississippi is one of the lowest performing states in many categories, but is one of the greatest producers of creative people. The tumultuous social and political climate of the state, combined with a lack of opportunity in regards to art and industry, cultivates not just a desire, but a need to leave Mississippi. Often seen as negative, adversity can be beneficial. It can give one the tools needed to flourish—including clarity, perspective, resourcefulness, creativity, and confidence. Vicksburg native Patrick Kelly’s first glimpse of fashion was in the magazines his grandmother brought home from work as a maid. In the same moment he realized that all of the models in the magazine were Caucasian he decided he was going to be the change by designing clothing for all women. Kelly left Jim Crow Mississippi because of racial tension and oppression, left Atlanta and New York due to a lack of support from the American fashion industry, and initially struggled in Paris. But when he got his big break, Mississippi was his inspiration. Kelly combined racist iconography such as blackface, watermelons, and bananas with bright colors and fun shapes to transform the imagery into symbols of love and not hate. Kelly’s hard work and determination led him to be the first American fashion designer accepted into Chambre Syndicale du Prêt-à-Porter, France’s prestigious organization of fashion designers; create ten collections; and dress celebrities such as Princess Diana, Bette Davis, and Grace Jones before his untimely death in 1990. Like Kelly, TJ Walker was introduced to fashion by his grandmother. As he watched her sew clothes for neighbors and friends, he began sketching people wearing clothing. FALL 2021

With a dream of becoming a fashion illustrator, the Toomsuba native earned an Associate of Arts from Meridian Community College, a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Delta State University, and a Master of Fine Arts from Louisiana Technical University. After returning home for a year, Walker moved to Los Angeles. He lived in his car until his big break came in the form of a classified ad placed by Carl Jones, fashion designer and creator of Surf Fetish, a profitable beachwear line. Walker designed the graphics, but both men were unhappy—they saw the rising gang violence during the late 1980s and wanted to be the change. In 1989 Cross Colours, an urban streetwear fashion line that celebrated Afrocentrism, was born. Ultimately, it revolutionized the fashion industry, hip-hop, and African American street culture by demonstrating that urban streetwear was a profitable market. The young entrepreneurs used fashion as a platform to encourage and uplift not just the African American community, but everyone, as the clothing line was built on the statement, “Clothing without Prejudice.” This had not been done before. At the height of their popularity, disaster struck. A major carrier filed bankruptcy and a verbal agreement with a big celebrity fell through resulting in layoffs, liquidation, and the sale of their trademark. Over two decades later, interests in Cross Colours emerged, they repurchased their trademark, and began having limited collections in retailers. Today they are back in full force and are now being carried in retailers such as Foot Locker, Zumiez, and Nordstrom’s worldwide. From Couture to da’ Streets: The Fashions of Patrick Kelly + Cross Colours celebrates two men who used their adversities to channel their creativity into something greater than themselves. The exhibition was organized by The MAX and features clothing, sketches, and related ephemera and is on display through January 8, 2022. Below left to right: Cross Colours Flag Label/Logo, ca 1989, courtesy of the Cross Colours Archives; Carl Jones and TJ Walker featured in Cross Colours promotional photograph, ca 1991, courtesy of the Cross Colours Archives; Cross Colours Community Event, ca 1992, photographer Malcolm Ali, courtesy of the Cross Colours Archives.

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Above: Print ad with Grace Jones and Patrick Kelly, Patrick Kelly Archive, Sc MG 631, Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, Manuscripts, Archives and Rare Books Division, The New York Public Library. Right: Patrick Kelly with dolls, Patrick Kelly Archive, Sc MG 631, Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, Manuscripts, Archives and Rare Books Division, The New York Public Library. FALL 2021

By Stacey Wilson, MAX Curator of Exhibitions

Adventures in the Imagination

“Illustrations in children’s picture books have no limits.” —Chuck Galey

Above: Jazz Cats Interior, Chuck Galey, 2001, watercolor. Opposite, left to right: Spanky & Skeeter, Chuck Galey, 2021, pen and ink, watercolor; Cheesebeard the Pirate, Chuck Galey, 1997, watercolor; Kenzi at Christmas, Chuck Galey, 2021, pen and ink, watercolor. 6

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On View November 23, 2021–March 12, 2022

Mississippi and spare time go hand in hand, so why not spend that time reading to a child? Reading and storytelling aid in language and literacy development, as well as improved concentration and social skills. Furthermore, reading can be twofold—one part text and one part illustration. The story is brought to life by the pictures, helping children learn that words have meaning and understand the context of the narrative. Absorbing a richly illustrated book sparks curiosity, stimulates creativity, and allows a child’s imagination to run wild. In Adventures in the Imagination we enter into the mind of children’s book illustrator and author Chuck Galey. As a child, Galey first learned to draw in church. There, he had everything he needed, “a pencil, a piece of paper, and a long-winded Baptist preacher.” His imagination soared as he dreamed up his own characters. From animals to comic books, a young Galey took them on many adventures. Today, Galey can look back on more than two decades of illustrating books. The Greenwood native and Mississippi State University graduate has illustrated over 50 books for educational publishers across the country. In addition, he has illustrated books such as Jazz Cats and SantaSauraus, and book covers including Beverly Cleary’s Henry and Ribsy and R.L. Stine’s Fear Street. Whether illustrating suspense, whimsy, humor, or mischief, Galey gives adults and children a special shared experience. That moment of bonding is what makes illustration rewarding to Galey.

Illustrated by Galey

Jazz Cats by David Davis Rock ‘N’ Roll Dogs by David Davis The Cotton Candy Catastrophe at the Texas State Fair by Dottie Enderle The Fat Stock Stampede at the Houston Rodeo by Dottie Enderle Jay and the Bounty of Books by Randall Ivey SantaSauraus by Delano Holmquist My Brother Dan’s Delicious by Steven L. Layne A Special Visitor Comes to Possum Ridge written and illustrated by Chuck Galey

Adventures in the Imagination combines original illustrations from published books as well as works-in-progress featuring both digital art and pen and ink with watercolor. The exhibition is on display from November 23, 2021–March 12, 2022. FALL 2021

Stories from the past, advice from the present, and talent for the future.

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By Kasey Mosley, Youth Educator

“I’ve learned so much about this small world of so many people with musical inclinations, what can happen when you put musicians in a room together—all the creative energy than can come from that.” —Paetyn Johnson, Age 17 This June, The MAX piloted an immersive music program called Sound of Success. This innovative one-week program potentially changed the life path of a select group of ten local high school juniors and seniors by inspiring them to realize their creative dreams. We selected students from a pool of nominations provided by music and choral teachers in school districts local to Meridian, Mississippi. The program engaged students who otherwise might not be able to access a high-quality music workshop. We plan to expand this summer program in the future to include other creative avenues (“Write for Success,” “Act for Success,” “Dance for Success,” etc.) and to serve a diverse mix of talented students from across Mississippi. The students met with several important people in the music industry, including Troy Tomlinson, CEO of Universal Music Publishing Group Nashville Division; Wayne Kirkpatrick, accomplished songwriter; Marty Gamblin, established music agent and producer; Dorothy Moore, Grammy-nominated R&B and gospel singer and Mississippi native; and local singer-songwriters Randy Ferino, LaQuinton Holliday (a MAX staff member), and Emily White. Representatives from Meridian Community College and Belmont University informed students of the various music offerings available on the college level. Melissa Boswell of Boswell Media spoke to them about the importance of confidence and hard work, regardless of the field they enter. Throughout the week, the students gained immense knowledge about the music industry. The most impressive thing, however, was what they learned about themselves and each other. We watched these teenagers blossom as they realized their commonalities and reveled in each other’s talents. They forged friendships and connections that will last far beyond the week at The MAX. Our hope is that Sound of Success and similar programs to come will inspire the next generation of Mississippi artists and leaders and help them reach their full creative potential.

FALL 2021

News from The MAX SEMC Spotlights Stacey Wilson The Southeast Museum Conference series, “Ones to Watch,” recognizes museum talent making an impact across our region.

Stacey Wilson

Stacey Wilson, The MAX Curator of Exhibitions, has been an invaluable member of the Communications + Programs team, and a leader of curatorial efforts for The MAX. She has been a driving force in working with exhibit designers in creating our exceptional permanent exhibits showcasing Mississippi artists through unique and innovative exhibit design. In addition, Wilson has designed a number of changing exhibits that tell dynamic, inclusive stories that connect locals and visitors alike. She is a skillful project manager and brings her creative spirit to our in-house exhibitions. The introduction of technology to The MAX exhibits has enabled visitors to understand the great cultural heritage of Mississippi through a state-of-the-art immersive experience.

Education + Development Summer Interns

Camille Black

Thanks to the Phil Hardin Foundation, we welcomed Camille Black as our education intern this summer. Black, a native of New Orleans, enters her sophomore year at Millsaps College in Jackson, Mississippi this fall. She reports that this internship helped her grow in confidence and equipped her with public-speaking skills that will prove invaluable to her in the future. Her contributions in the planning and implementation of our educational programs will continue to be felt long after she leaves us. We wish her the best in her future endeavors! During the summer months The MAX’s Development Department advanced its new Strategic Membership program with the assistance of Josephine Hanegan, a Louisiana State University anthropology major from Meridian. Support for the position came from the Riley Foundation Summer Work Program.

Josephine Hanegan

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A 2020 honors graduate of Lamar School, Hanegan is a past recipient of the Eudora Welty Writing Award. At The MAX, she took the lead in reaching out to more than 200 arts enthusiasts who can strengthen the museum’s support network across Mississippi and beyond. Hanegan has worked at the LSU Rural Life Museum in Baton Rouge and anticipates pursuing a career in the museum field after graduate school.

The Caron Gallery: MAX Partner in Northeast Mississippi Tupelo art gallery owner Kim Caron took pleasure in learning that Ke Francis, a narrative multimedia artist who is among her high-profile clients, would be the subject of a special exhibition at The Mississippi Arts + Entertainment Experience in Meridian. When Shawn Brevard, a Tupelo board member for the state arts museum known as The MAX, shared that the Jugline exhibit—featuring the tale of a walking catfish that befriends a boy—needed a sponsor, Caron jumped at the chance. She wanted to demonstrate support for her artist friend and for Mississippi arts in general. “That’s me! Let me do it,” the art dealer and consultant responded. “Now it’s my time to turn around and do for my community and my state what they’ve done for me.” The compelling Jugline visual storytelling exhibit runs through November 6. Born in Maryland, Caron has lived in Tupelo for decades and deeply appreciates creative individuals who convey an understanding of Mississippi’s culture and landscape. A business graduate of Mississippi State University, she opened Caron Gallery in downtown Tupelo in 2010 and provides an online and on-site platform for selling pieces by at least 40 artists with strong connections to the state. Among them is Adam Trest, a Laurel artist drawn to the region’s wildlife and flora, with works often seen on HGTV’s popular show Home Town. Caron has expressed interest in sponsoring a planned future Trest special exhibit at The MAX. The gallery-and-museum collaboration promises to grow stronger as the two entities advance a remarkably similar mission, highlighting unique Mississippi artists.

Strategic Members Adding to MAX Network A new Strategic Membership program of The MAX that enlists individuals who can help strengthen the museum’s outreach now has a roster of nearly 40—with many more expected in coming months. The networking initiative was made possible through the financial support of Melanie Mitchell, a MAX board member, and her husband Manny. Invitations for participation in the program, which provides free membership for a year, are based on nominations and staff research. Among confirmed Strategic Members, as of the end of July, are: Adam Trest, an artist based in Laurel whose works have been featured on the hit HGTV show Home Town; Catherine Pierce, Ph.D., Mississippi’s current Poet Laureate, a professor of English and creative writing program co-director at Mississippi State University; Oliver Luckett, owner of the Yazoo Yaupon tea company and founder of the Delta Arts District in Clarksdale; Ebony Lumumba, Ph.D., a professor of English and department chair at Jackson State University; and Katherine Doss, managing editor of the South Writ Large quarterly online magazine.

FALL 2021

Swine and Dine About Cole Ellis Owner of Delta Meat Market and Bar Fontaine in Cleveland, Mississippi, Ellis was a semifinalist for the James Beard Award “Best Chef South” in 2017; was listed as #3 in Southern Living’s Best Chefs of the South in 2019; and has been featured nationally in Bon Appétit, Southern Living, Delta Magazine, and Garden & Gun. Visit msarts.org for event updates.

This fall, as a fundraiser for our Sound of Success program, The MAX will host Swine & Dine, a whole-hog barbecue event with guest chef, Cole Ellis. Enjoy an evening of Southern tradition with great food, great drink, and great music… because here in the South, there’s a few things we can all agree on. Barbecue is a noun, never a verb. If you don’t have anything nice to say, a simple “Bless your heart” will do. And it isn’t a celebration without way too much food. 7784 MAX Swine and Dine 7/27/2021 • Logo Edit

The culinary tradition of barbecue runs deep in the South. Our passion for the pig and the pit is best exhibited from what is arguably the oldest and longest running tradition of the barbecue world—and perhaps all of Southern culinary culture—whole-hog barbecue. Known by many names, the tradition of whole-hog is passed down through the generations, with pitmasters learning through family practices, not culinary school. It’s a commitment, a passion, and it’s certainly a project. The inherently community-based feast has a rich history dating back to the Native Americans, made richer by the African American community. Throughout the history of the South, pig roasts were huge events, often held by grand-standing politicians and preachers as a way to drive crowds to hear their cause. The slowest of the low and slow, whole-hog cookery is a labor of love, and with each bite of belly, cracklin’, and shoulder (you can get that all in one!), you don’t just taste good pork, you taste soul.

Grant Support Vital to MAX Efforts TOU RISM AS SOC I AT I O N

Foundations, government arts programs, and other philanthropic entities play a major role in sustaining MAX initiatives, especially during a time of budget reductions necessitated by the pandemic crisis. The organization is deeply grateful for recent grants supporting general operations or specific programs. Among recent grants to the museum: A Mississippi Arts Commission operating grant of $24,000 for the 2022 fiscal year, the first year of a two-year support commitment. From the Mississippi Humanities Council, a Museum Relief Grant totaling $15,000. The grant is part of the American Rescue Plan, which provides support for operational 12

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Charles L. Young Foundation

costs to nonprofits suffering losses as a result of COVID-19. The Humanities Council is affiliated with the National Endowment for the Humanities. A $4,000 grant from the Mississippi Tourism Association supporting promotion of the 2022 Sipp & Savor event. Grants totaling $5,000 in support of Juneteenth “History to Hip-Hop” educational programming, featuring Jonathan Blanchard and his band. The support included $3,000 from the local Charles L. Young Foundation and $2,000 from the Atlantabased South Arts organization, which acted in partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts and Mississippi Arts Commission.

Grammy award-winning bluesman Bobby Rush is on a book tour—he’s promoting his autobiography, I Ain’t Studdin’ Ya, My American Blues Story. On his stop in Meridian, he’ll be at The MAX to sign books and participate in a Q&A session. Books will be available at the signing. B

September 15 | 11:30am–1pm Free and open to the public.

This fall, as a fundraiser for our Sound of Success program, The MAX will host Swine & Dine, a white tablecloth whole-hog barbecue event curated by Chef Cole Ellis, owner of Delta Meat Market. Enjoy an evening of Southern tradition, with great food, great drink, and great music. F A L L

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Stay tuned to msarts.org for details!

Not just a fashion show, but a curated couture hip-hop experience! Enjoy a night of hip-hop dance performances and view the newest collections by Cross Colours modeled by people from the community. Stay tuned for updates and more information regarding model casting calls. W

November 6 | 5–7pm Free and open to the public. FALL 202 11 9

Taking the Arts to the People Be inspired by the life stories of Mississippi’s legendary artists, learn about their creative processes, and pursue your own creative interests through workshops, classes, and other events at The MAX this fall.

The Gestalt Gardener + Friends Live at The MAX October 1 | 8:30–9:30am $5 per person Join us for another live broadcast of MPB Radio’s The Gestalt Gardener with Felder Rushing. Registration required. Limited seating. There are Those that Bloom in Winter October 2 | 9:30–11am Free with museum admission Spring isn’t the only time of year your flowers can bloom. Felder will discuss easy, creative tips that will allow your garden’s beauty to shine year round.

Sip + Sew Embroidery Workshop with Claire Crider September 23 | 5:30–7:30pm $35 Members $45 Non-members Bring your favorite beverage to a happy hour embroidery workshop with Claire Crider of Earthologie. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, you’ll leave with an embroidered masterpiece. All materials and instruction included in the workshop. Ages 21+ Registration required.

Connecting with Members Email members@msarts.org to join The MAX today. WineDowns September 2 + October 28 $15 per Person, Free for Members Join us this fall for two wine tastings (September– Cabernet, November–TBD). You’ll learn about the varietals, and could take home enough wine to last through the holiday season! 14

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Rules of the Game: Put together a 2–3 person team and bring three identical bottles of wine—two for the tasting and one for “the pot.” If your bottle is chosen the winner, you’ll take home a wide selection of wines. To register your team, visit msarts.org.

Masks and social distancing are recommended at The MAX. Dates and times are subject to change. For updates and to register for events, visit msarts.org.

Beginner’s Watercolor with Rosemary Kahlmus

Wheel Thrown Ceramics with Rosa Salas

September 7–October 26 Tuesdays | 2–4pm $155 Members $180 Non-members $165 Seniors 65+

September 7–October 26 Tuesdays | 5:30–7:30pm $155 Members $180 Non-members $165 Seniors 65+

In this eight-week beginner-level progressive course, students will learn and practice the basic techniques of watercolor. No prior experience required. All materials and instruction included in the course fee. Class size limited to 10 students, ages 16+. Registration required.

Artist Rosa Salas teaches this eight-week progressive ceramics course. Learn the basic techniques behind throwing on the potters wheel and create one-of-akind pieces all on your own. All materials, instruction, and firing included in the course fee. Class size limited to six students, ages 16+. Registration required.

Exhibition Previews Patrick Kelly + Cross Colours September 3 Adventures in the Imagination November 23 Two changing exhibitions are opening this fall at The MAX—From Couture to da’ Streets: The Fashions of Patrick Kelly + Cross Colours and Adventures in the

Hip-Hop Choreography October 5–26 Tuesdays | 6–7pm $15 Members $20 Non-members Hip-hop is a dance that encourages freestyle moves and is fun for all ages. So come, wear comfortable shoes and baggy clothes, and let’s dance! In this four-week class you will learn choreography for two dances and will perform them at the Walk dat Walk: Fashion Show at The MAX on November 6. Registration required. Class size limited.

Open Studio Imagination with children’s book illustrator Chuck Galey. Registration required.

Tuesdays + Thursdays 11am–2pm $85 per month

Members can preview the exhibits two ways: Sip + View, 2–4:30pm Reception, 5:30–7pm For more information about the exhibits or to register, visit msarts.org.

The MAX ceramics studio is open to members of all skill levels and abilities. Fee includes materials and firing. Registration required by the first of every month. FALL 2021

Vincent Villemaire Photography

Welcome to Maxie’s Juke Joint. Join us on a Friday night for a rollicking good time—music, dancing, food, and fun—with two of Mississippi’s finest bluesmen, Fred T and The Band and Keith Johnson. Cash bar + free refreshments. Registration required. $20 Non-members | Free for Members B

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Fred T and The Band Keith Johnson S P R I N G 2 0 2 1 | 16 Funded in part by a grant from the Mississippi Arts Commission.

On the first Saturday of every month, enjoy a specially themed experience with artist demos, live performances, yard games, free refreshments, and much more. Take advantage of our First Saturday discount admission: $5 Adults | $1 Youth 6–17 | Kids 5 and under + Members free. All First Saturday events are free with museum admission. 9am–5pm F I R S T

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Michael Peerboom/Peerboom Photography

9/4 Cross Colours 10/2 Color Outside the Lines 11/6 MAXgiving

Spend your lunch hour at The MAX! Pack a lunch and head over to The MAX the third Thursday in October and November for an hour or so of live music by a Mississippi artist. Performances begin at 11:30am and end at 1pm. Free and open to the public. T H I R D

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Membership at The MAX gives you a front row seat to everything Arts + Entertainment. Grand Patron Level Members + above are listed below. As of July 31, 2021. Charter Performer’s Circle Dr. & Mrs. Gary Boone Charter Benefactor’s Circle Dr. & Mrs. Woodie Abraham Jr. Dr. & Mrs. Ric Alexander Dr. & Mrs. Robert J. Cater Ms. Juanita Crowe Mr. & Mrs. Robert B. Deen Jr. Mr. & Mrs. Thomas K. Dobbins EMBDC Freddie’s Fine Spirits Mrs. Dorothy L. Graham Insurance Advisory Group, LLC LaBiche Jewelers, LLC Mr. & Mrs. Larry Love Mr. & Mrs. Archie R. McDonnell Jr. Mrs. Vicky McDonnell Mr. & Mrs. Phillip McLain Mr. & Mrs. Manny Mitchell Stifel Nicolaus Dr. & Mrs. James Lee Valentine Waters International Trucks, Inc. Mr. & Mrs. Fred Wile Mr. & Mrs. Brad Woodall Charter Grand Patron Dr. & Mrs. Richard Abney Mr. & Mrs. Jimmy Alexander Mr. William E. Arlinghaus Mr. Claiborne & Mrs. Marian Barksdale Mr. & Mrs. Clayton Cobler Mr. & Mrs. Robert A. Coffin, III Dr. & Mrs. Jeffrey N. Cook Crow’s Nest Properties Mr. & Mrs. Michael M. Davis, II Mr. Tommy Dulaney & Mrs. Rebecca Combs-Dulaney Mr. & Mrs. Bill Hammack Dr. & Mrs. Frederick Y. Grant Mr. & Mrs. Lloyd S. Gray Mr. & Mrs. Miles Hester Mrs. Alice James

Mr. & Mrs. Larry Johnson Mr. & Mrs. Ken LaBruyere Mr. & Mrs. Robert S. Loeb Jr. Mr. & Mrs. Sam E. Long, III Dr. & Mrs. David Makey Mr. & Dr. Evan McDonald Mr. & Mrs. Scott McQuaig Mr. & Mrs. John Northam Hon. & Mrs. Lawrence Primeaux Mr. & Mrs. David G. Ray Mr. & Mrs. Don Rogers Ms. Peg Wahrendorff Mr. & Mrs. Coleman Warner Corporate Circle Atlas Roofing Corporation Benefactor’s Circle Mr. & Mrs. Bob Barham Mr. Courtland Gray & Mrs. Shannon Crowe Mr. & Mrs. Maurice Hall Dr. & Mrs. R. Condon Hughes Meridian Airport Authority Dr. Tonea Stewart Grand Patron Mr. & Mrs. John B. Breaux Jr. Mr. & Mrs. David Brevard Mr. & Mrs. Douglas Coleman Mr. & Mrs. Jay Davidson Dr. Thomas Tischer & Mrs. Elizabeth S. Frohse Mr. & Mrs. Checky Herrington Mr. & Mrs. Maurice Kahlmus Meridian OB/GYN, PLLC Dr. & Mrs. Nathan Myatt Dr. & Mrs. Michael Nanney Mr. & Mrs. Stacey Nicholson Mr. & Mrs. Kyle Temple Dr. & Mrs. John D. Voss Mr. & Mrs. George S. Warner

Nonprofit Organization U.S. Postage Paid Permit #290 Tupelo, MS 38801

2155 Front Street Meridian, MS 39301

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Happy Holidays to The MAX!

We have venues suitable for any event—the Hall of Fame with its soaring rotunda, the second floor church gallery complete with pulpit and pews, the versatile outdoor courtyard and lawn, a rooftop terrace with views of downtown Meridian, and the multipurpose gallery, perfect for professional or social events. For help planning your next event, email ethan@msarts.org or call 601-581-1550, ext. 10.