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A Family

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Shaped by

& Community

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STARKVILLE

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4 • JUNE 2026

FROM OUR

CONSULTING

EDITOR

As summer settles into Starkville, this June issue of Hometown Starkville Magazine

gives us even more reason to celebrate the community we proudly call home.

Earlier this spring, Starkville earned national recognition, once again,

when readers of USA Today named our city the Best Small Town in

the South for the third consecutive year. Honors like this don’t happen

by accident — they reflect the people, businesses, leadership, schools,

organizations, and neighbors who make Starkville such a special place

to live, work, and visit.

What truly sets Starkville apart is its personality — the welcoming

spirit you feel walking through downtown, the familiar faces that greet

you by name, and the way people here consistently show up for one

another. It’s the small business owners who pour their hearts into

serving customers, the volunteers who quietly give their time to

worthy causes, the educators shaping future generations, and the

community leaders working every day to move our city forward.

Starkville has a way of blending tradition, progress, hospitality,

and creativity into something uniquely its own, and that character

is shaped by the people who call this place home.

This month also marks another exciting milestone for our community.

In early May, we celebrated the inaugural Top 20 Under 40 awards,

recognizing a remarkable group of young professionals who are

already making a lasting impact across Starkville and Oktibbeha

County. Their leadership, innovation, and commitment to service

remind us that the future of our city is in capable hands.

In these pages, you’ll find stories that highlight the energy, creativity,

and spirit that continue to define Starkville. Whether you’re a lifelong

resident, a student, or someone discovering our city for the first time,

thank you for being part of this thriving community.

HOMETOWN STAFF

IN THIS ISSUE

ACCOUNT

EXECUTIVE

Barbie Bassett

PUBLISHER & EDITOR

Tahya Dobbs

LAYOUT DESIGN

Daniel Thomas

3dt

ACCOUNT

EXECUTIVE

Christy Maulding

CFO

Kevin Dobbs

STAFF WRITER/

PHOTOGRAPHER

Karley Woods

ADMINISTRATIVE

ASSISTANT

Susan Wolgamott

CONSULTING EDITOR

Mary Ann Kirby

ADVERTISING

& CONTENT

Amanda Livingston

STAFF ASSISTANT

Debby Francis

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Amy Forsyth

MARKETING

MANAGER

Emma Allen

SPECIAL PROJECTS

COORDINATOR

Alana Miles

...see you around town.

Reader Spotlight. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

The Way We Were. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Hometown Family . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Top 20 under 40 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

PKL Row . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

A Family Shaped by Faith & Community . . . 36

Mamas, Messes & Miracles. . . . . . . . . . 40

Best Small Town in the South. . . . . . . . . 42

Mahjong & Magnolias . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

LaLa Evans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76

ON THE COVER Pattie & David Little

www.facebook.com/hometownstarkvillemagazine. For subscription information visit www.htmags.com or contact us at info@HTMags.com / 601.706.4059 / 200 Felicity Street / Brandon, MS 39042

All rights reserved. No portion of Hometown Starkville may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. The management of Hometown Starkville is not responsible for opinions expressed by its writers or editors.

Hometown Starkville maintains the unrestricted right to edit or refuse all submitted material. All advertisements are subject to approval by the publisher. The production of Hometown Starkville is funded by advertising.

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6 • JUNE 2026


READER

SPOTLIGHT

Sammy

SLAUGHTER

Why did you decide to make Starkville

your home, and what do you love about

living here?

I was born in Starkville and have lived here most

of my life. This community is special to me in

a number of ways, which is why I always

wanted to live here and raise my family in this

environment. Starkville offers the small-town

feel, plus all that comes with a major university.

The two together offer a lot for someone to

enjoy, and they make Starkville a great place

to raise a family. It is convenient to be both

ten minutes from an SEC sporting venue and

fifteen minutes from a deer stand. Starkville

is small enough that I could always attend my

children’s school events and still get back to

work on time. I have a number of long-time

friends who still live here and many others

who frequently come home to attend ball

games or see family.

Tell us about your family.

I’ve been married to my wife, Beverly Caffey,

for 39 years. We met after graduating from

MSU while I was living in her hometown of

Grenada. After we got married, we lived

briefly in Jackson/Ridgeland before moving

back to Starkville. We have three sons, Sam,

Zach, and Blake, as well as two grandchildren.

Sam is our oldest, and he and his wife,

Liza, live in Dallas, Texas. Zach and his wife,

Tiffany, live in Starkville along with our two

grandchildren, Shepard (5) and Miller (2).

Blake and his wife Megan were married this

past December. They also live in Dallas, just

three miles from Sam and Liza. All three of

my sons are avid MSU fans, and we always

have the family group text going during games.

All three play golf, which is something we

enjoy doing together. With Zach living in

Starkville, he is able to enjoy hunting with his

family on our farm.

What is your favorite memory of living

in Starkville?

All of the memories associated with raising

our kids in this community, so close to our

family, and allowing them to enjoy some of

what I was able to enjoy about growing up

here. A specific fun memory was the day

State beat Auburn, which we all knew we

would lead to being ranked number one in

the nation. Winning multiple state championships

in football during high school is a

fond memory as well. I also enjoyed growing

up being able to play golf and hunt around

Starkville.

Where are your three favorite places

to eat in Starkville?

Starkville is full of incredible restaurants,

and it’s hard to narrow it down to just three

favorites. The variety here truly stands out,

offering everything from relaxed, casual

spots to exceptional fine dining experiences.

There’s always something great to enjoy, no

matter the occasion.

8 • JUNE 2026

Our magazine is all about celebrating

local life. What’s your favorite thing

about this community?

The closeness of the people. The fact that we

live in a community with so much diversity

due to MSU. The different functions that are

put on in the city, the events on campus, and

now the new youth sports complexes, we’re

able to enjoy. Again, the small-town feel, but

with events that you usually only have in a

larger market. I have also enjoyed being part

of the faith of this community. I’ve been a

member of First Baptist Church my entire life.

What’s a fun fact about you that might

surprise people?

My grandfather started the Chevrolet

dealership in Starkville in 1929. He was one

of the first to be a paid fire chief for Starkville,

which he did for 13 years. He was the mayor

until he was called up for WWII. My father

later took over the dealership from my

grandfather. He was also a volunteer firefighter

and was one of the first on the scene to help

contain the Old Main fire on campus. He

was also one of the founders of the Starkville

Country Club and served as the first president.

My great-grandfather was in the first graduating

class of engineers at MSU, and Carpenter Hall,

the mechanical engineering building, is named

after him.

Tell us about your occupation.

I have been in banking since 1983. I currently

serve in the role of city president and commercial

lender for Guaranty Bank in Starkville.

I enjoy working with people, both customers

and other employees. I enjoy giving customers

a solution to a need so that they can improve

their business or personal life. I am enjoying

sharing my knowledge from the past 40-plus

years with the younger employees in our bank

through a mentor program. My job has also

allowed me to serve with various organizations

that have worked to improve the quality

of life for our community. I serve as VP of

the Starkville Greater Partnership, treasurer

of Catch-A-Dream Foundation, and I’m a

member of the Starkville Rotary Club.

Give us one encouraging quote.

Doing what is right is doing it when no one

is looking.

Who is someone you admire and why?

My parents, Bub and Nel Slaughter. I was

able to take the qualities that both my mom

and dad had to offer. They instilled my faith,

my love of family, and my work ethic. My

father taught me to work hard and be fair

to those I worked with and worked for. He

taught me to be honest in my dealings with

people while also giving them my best effort

and to put my faith and family above

everything else.

Where do you see yourself in ten years?

Hopefully, I’ll be retired and enjoying my

family, friends, and all that Starkville has to

offer. I hope to travel with my wife and play

more golf. We have a number of trips we

would like to take in the next few years.

If a friend were visiting for the weekend,

where would you take them first?

I would probably start off with a tour of

campus and talk about all the ways MSU

has grown in my lifetime.


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10 • JUNE 2026


Everlyn & WC Johnson

Christy Maulding

It was WC’s brother’s wife, Barbara, who first brought him and Everlyn

together. She and Everlyn were roommates, both home economists, and

somewhere in the rhythm of shared work and friendship, Barbara decided

these two would make a perfect pair. That introduction in early 1974

would become the beginning of something lasting.

WC still remembers that first meeting clearly. “She was pretty in

pictures, but when I first saw her, I just couldn’t believe how beautiful

she was in person,” he said. “Her face was just angelic with a velvet glow,

and she had the most beautiful smile.”

Everlyn remembers it with a bit of humor. “He was so handsome,

but I realized immediately that we were so close to the same height, so I

immediately found a way to slip my heels off,” she laughed. “I didn’t want

to be taller than him.”

What followed was not rushed, but a slow, steady long-distance

relationship. Everlyn in Cleveland, Mississippi, and WC in Minneapolis,

teaching school, learned early what it meant to love from afar.

They wrote so many letters and mailed pictures back and forth, sharing

glimpses of their lives in words and photographs. “We had long, beautiful

conversations and put lots of our thoughts and love in writing,” they shared.

“To this day, WC has kept every letter I ever wrote,” Everlyn added with

a smile. “Every single one.”

Their connection grew steadily, rooted in shared values and similar

beginnings. Both came from large farming families: Everlyn, one of seven

children; WC, one of fourteen, where hard work and faith were a way of

life. WC reflects on those early mornings growing up, “One of my jobs

was to get up every morning and make sure there was a good fire going

in the stove,” he said. “My mama made a hundred biscuits every single

morning, so a good fire was important.” That kind of upbringing shaped

both and prepared them for the life they would build together.

They married on June 19, 1976, beginning a journey that will reach a

special milestone this year as they celebrate their 50th anniversary. Even

their wedding reflected Everlyn’s gifts. A lifelong home economist, she

made every bridesmaid dress and her own wedding gown, which was later

featured in the lifestyle section of the newspaper. After their honeymoon,

WC returned to Wisconsin for a year, continuing the pattern of distance

they had already learned to navigate. Later, he returned one last time to

complete his doctoral degree, having earned a full scholarship and

needing only a few remaining courses.

“These were definitely the hardest days,” they shared. “These two

time periods where we were apart for so long.” That second season of

separation was especially difficult. By then, they had both boys, Sanford

and Terrence, just four years old and eighteen months old. “Terrence

did not want his daddy to go,” Everlyn said, “but we leaned on what had

carried us from the beginning, and we had good backup, lots of friends

and family to lend their support.” Through letters, conversations, and

commitment, they made it through, stronger for it.

Over time, their life began to take shape in Mississippi. After moving

to Cleveland, WC served as vocational director in Como and later

12 • JUNE 2026

“If there is an issue,

and there will be,

stop and talk

about it.”

became a high school principal in West Bolivar. Soon after, an opportunity

brought them to Mississippi State University and to Starkville, where

they would build the rest of their life.

Everlyn served as a program specialist with the extension office,

while WC worked in instructional systems, leadership, and workforce

development. For a time, Everlyn also opened The Golden Triangle

Fabric Center, a natural extension of her passion and talent. “That was a

wonderful time,” she said. “I met so many wonderful people.” But when

news of grandchildren on the way arrived, she made the decision to close

that chapter. “I wanted to keep the road between Starkville and Clarksdale

hot,” she said with a smile. Family, as it always had been, came first.

Together, they raised two sons, Sanford Johnson and Terrence

Marshall Johnson, in a home grounded in faith, structure, and love.

“To watch WC be a dad was so heartwarming,” Everlyn said. “Even in

the middle of the night, before I even knew the baby was crying, he

would already be there helping, helping to carry the load.”

“You do what needs to be done,” WC said simply.

Today, their family has grown to include daughters-in-law Amanda,

the wife of Sanford, and Lauren, the wife of Terrence, and four grandchildren,

Lorelei, Ava Jae, Logan Joshua, and Terrence Marshall, Jr. Sanford

works with the nonprofit Teach Plus, while Terrence, who lives in Boston,

Massachusetts, serves as a CBS affiliate and freelance videographer.

“We’re proud of them,” Everlyn said. “Not just for what they’ve done,

but for who they are.”

As a lifelong home economist, Everlyn now finds joy in passing those

skills down. “It thrills me that my granddaughters want to learn, making

banana bread, learning to sew, just spending time together.”

Their life in Starkville has been rich with friendships and community.

“We love our life here, the community, and the many wonderful friends

we’ve made over the years.”

Like any long marriage, theirs has seen seasons that required patience

and grace. “Do not let things fester,” Everlyn advised. “If there is an issue,

and there will be, stop and talk about it. Not as an accusation, but in a

‘how does this make you feel’ way.” She paused, then added, “Give the

other person time to understand and explain.”

WC shared his own perspective. “There are hard times,” WC said.

“Times when you have to really be aware of each other. Keep a good

sense of humor, tempered with common sense,” he said. “Before you

laugh, be sure it’s an appropriate time to laugh. And be willing to move

on,” he added. “Forgive and don’t dwell on things.”

At its core, they both agree, marriage is about partnership. “Marriage

is about compromise,” WC said. “The union is two people with two

ideas.” And through every season, one truth has remained steady.

“Always have your partner’s back, one hundred percent.”

“Always,” Everlyn added.


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662.765.3750 | justin.casano@regions.com

© 2025 Regions Bank. Regions and the Regions logo are registered trademarks of Regions Bank. The LifeGreen color is a

trademark of Regions Bank.

14 • JUNE 2026


16 • JUNE 2026

The Casanos


Justin is a senior vice president, market executive with Regions

Bank. He enjoys hunting, playing golf, attending MSU sporting

events and forming long term relationships with commercial

clients and leaders in the Starkville community.

Elizabeth owns EBC Consulting, a marketing and business

development company, where she manages social media accounts,

mentors upcoming leaders using the Enneagram, and serves as

the keynote speaker at events. She hosts the “Honey Hush”

podcast and is a published author. She enjoys working from

home so that she is available as a mother as well.

Parker is 21 years old and is a junior at Mississippi State

majoring in ag-leadership. He is a sergeant in the Army National

Guard and a member of Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity. He loves

playing on the Bulldog Club Baseball team. He is on track to

contract with the MSU-ROTC in the fall.

Blake will be a 2026 graduate of Starkville High and attending

MSU in the fall majoring in public relations with an emphasis

on the pre-dental program. She is also on the MSU Spirit Squad

as a flyer on the coed team.

Anniston is the surprise we had no idea how much our family

needed. She is 10 years old, loves animals, very creative and

adores her older siblings. She pretty much has two sets of

parents, but she prefers Parker & Blake over us.


Describe your family in three words

Independent, active, loud, no filter, no secrets and super social – that is

obviously more than three words, but you are asking five very opinionated

people. We couldn’t mutually agree on just three!

What’s something people might be surprised to learn

about your family?

Parker and Blake attended four different schools all within the Golden

Triangle trying to find the right fit for dyslexia-supported learning.

Homeschooling ended up being the best option for a while. It was so

great, in fact, that Anniston asked to be homeschooled in 4th grade just

for fun. She quickly asked to go back to regular school for 5th grade.

How has the community shaped who you are today—

personally and professionally?

Justin The core of banking is building local relationships. Being in banking

for 22 years, I’ve watched second and third generations transition executive

leadership to other family members. Some of my best friends are my

customers. It doesn’t get much better than when business and friendship

collide to work towards the same goal and objective.

Elizabeth My family moved to Starkville from Macon when I was ten.

I graduated from Starkville High in 1997 and immediately went to MSU.

This community is now where I chose to raise my own family. I couldn’t

imagine a better way to grow a business or family than with people I have

done life with for over 30 years. Business and friendships also come easier

when the excellent reputation of my parents proceeds me as well.

It’s reassuring to know that someone is watching out for my kids when

I’m not around.

What are some of your favorite local traditions, spots,

restaurants, or memories as a family?

Starkville Cafe for breakfast on birthday mornings, Commodore Bobs for

celebrations, Starkville Country Club literally every Friday for meeting up

with friends, Asian Market on Christmas Day, tailgating in The Junction,

cooking a New Years Day meal for the neighborhood, delivering Boo Baskets

at Halloween, picnics under a special tree at South Farm, 4th of July at

Old Waverly, we absolutely love our community!

How do you balance being a creator with family life?

What is the heart behind your message?

Elizabeth I’m an very structured person but hold my plans loosely. I still

keep an actual paper calendar because I don’t trust technology with all the

things swirling around in my head. My family is my top priority though.

However, I couldn’t do what I do, to the extent I do it, if I didn’t have the

support of my parents. They’re retired and love when I need their help.

My day consists of managing social media accounts for local businesses,

participating in business development meetings, contributing to various

service opportunities all crammed in before jumping into carpool at

Overstreet Elementary to take Anniston to her various activities.

When I meet with a potential new client, I tell them, “I want you to be

Batman and allow me to be your Robin.” I get so much satisfaction from

taking someone’s dream and putting legs to it so that it can come to

fruition. I find that is what I do with most things though, not just my

consulting work. I love to mentor college kids, new moms, pretty much

anyone who just needs someone to believe in them enough to give them

the secrets to achieving their goals.

18 • JUNE 2026

How do you stay connected to the community through

your work?

An honest work ethic and volunteering are core values that we have

encouraged strongly with all three of our children. They see us working in

the community with people we love every day. They see us problem-solving

and networking to bring talent to the table. Parker has been mowing grass

for neighbors since he could ride his bike around to hustle business. And

at 17 years old, he chose to enlist into the U.S. Army National Guard. Blake

served as president of Crown Club this past year as well as student body

representative on the student council and currently works at Starkville

Smiles learning all the behind-the-scenes details because she wants to

come back to Starkville after dental school. Anniston is just now getting to

the age where she is about to find out, real quick, what a summer job looks

like and how you are never too young to start learning how to save for a

rainy day. It might be something as simple as pet sitting, but she is capable.

She has had wonderful examples of service and work by watching her

siblings. So, I feel sure she knows it’s coming.

Justin I serve on the Starkville Partnership board and Golden Triangle

Development Link board and vice-chairman of the Greater Golden

Triangle FCA Board of Trustees. I also work with my community

development officer at Regions Bank to identify and partner with

non-profits such as the JL King Center, United Way, Boys & Girls

Club and FCA.

Elizabeth I wrote a book to

encourage parents, specifically in

Mississippi, raising children with

dyslexia and ADHD. I speak to

audiences around the state as

well as partner with Mississippi

Ready to equip parents to get the

resources their children need to

thrive in school. It isn’t rare to find

me at a local coffee shop, on any

given morning, mentoring a mom

who is in the throes of navigating

an IEP or 503 plan.

What led you into banking,

and what do you love most about your job?

Justin Due to my love of sports, I actually completed my degree in fitness

management, with a minor in business. When I met Elizabeth, I quickly

discovered the strong relationship she had with her family, and she wasn’t

interested in moving away. I was just looking for a job after graduation and

my father-in-law suggested I talk to his friends at the bank. God knew

ahead of time that being a teller would lead to an incredible 25-year career

that I could scale and allow us to stay in Starkville. I love forming new

relationships that last. As companies grow, their need for industry expertise,

proactive advice, and guidance grows as well.

How do you stay connected as a family during such a

busy season of life?

We share our schedules regularly, make dinner around the table a priority

at least once a week, and attend church together on Sundays. Anniston

especially loves to get out the “conversation cards” we have on the kitchen

table because she is nosey and wants to know everyone’s business. Even

Parker still is involved even though technically he is an adult now. It’s

possible though that he is just hungry. We are not scared to ask each other

for help either. It’s not always perfect, but connection is always the goal.

If your family had a motto, what would it be?

We don’t quit, we figure it out. But I am also fond of something I heard

Mark Batterson say once, “Work like it depends on you, pray like it

depends on God, Elizabeth said.”

What advice would you give to other families in Starkville

who are trying to balance career, community, and home?

Elizabeth There is no such thing as balance. You cannot crush it in every

area of life all at once. You have to decide what your priority is in each

season and know that the other opportunities will resurface later in life if

they are truly meant for you. One thing you cannot go back to though is

your children’s early years. If I had to put them in order I would say family,

community, and then career. People are the only things you can take to

heaven with you one day.

How do you hope your family contributes to the

Starkville community?

Our hope is that our efforts to love well are concentrated efforts that make

lasting impressions and encourage others to find ways to use their gifts to

serve as well. See a need, fill a need. And leave things better than how you

found them. It’s pretty simple. Be a noticer and move in that direction.

We want to be duplicatable because love isn’t meant to be done in a silo.

And if our children grow up to be changemakers and community

contributors too, that would be our greatest joy.

What’s something your kids have taught you?

Justin Patience, grace and forgiveness

Elizabeth To be resourceful and think on my feet, to enjoy the present

moment, to laugh at the days ahead and to pray like my life depends on it.


Starkville-Oktibbeha

BEST OF THE BEST

top

UNDER

On May 12, the ballroom at the Hilton Garden Inn in Starkville was filled with celebration,

inspiration, and community pride as Hometown Starkville Magazine honored our

Top 20 Under 40 recipients. The inaugural event recognizes young professionals whose

leadership, service, and dedication are creating a lasting impact across the Starkville area.

From business and education to healthcare, public service, and nonprofit work,

this year’s honorees represent a new generation committed to making a difference

in the lives of those they serve. Their passion, innovation, and community involvement

continue to shape a brighter future for Starkville and the surrounding region.

20 • JUNE 2026


Brian Blank

Grace Dewberry

Jessica Annette Dotson

Mississippi State University

College of Business

Dr. Brian Blank is an associate professor of finance

at Mississippi State University’s College of Business.

He earned his Ph.D. in finance from the University of

Tennessee in 2016, along with a master’s in finance

and applied statistics and a BSBA from the University

of Alabama. Before entering academia, he worked

as a consultant and quickly advanced through his

academic career, achieving tenure and promotion

to associate professor.

Dr. Blank is an active member of professional

organizations such as the Financial Management

Association and the Southern Finance Association,

where he has contributed to conference organization,

and he serves as a faculty sponsor for the

Mississippi Young Bankers. Passionate about

teaching and outreach, he has shared his expertise

with national media outlets including Forbes, Reuters,

ABC News, and the BBC. Outside of work, he is an

avid runner, logging more than 3,000 miles in a year.

He credits his success to mentors who emphasized

ethics, humility, and investing in others—values he

now strives to pass on to his students.

Starkville Veterinary Hospital

Dr. Grace Dewberry is a veterinarian at Starkville

Veterinary Hospital, where she provides compassionate,

high-quality care for companion animals

and supports pet owners through every stage of

their animals’ health. She earned her Bachelor of

Science in microbiology, summa cum laude, with

a minor in political science from Mississippi State

University, and went on to receive her Doctor

of Veterinary Medicine with honors.

Alongside her clinical work in private practice,

Dr. Dewberry serves as an intermittent faculty

member in the emergency department at the

Mississippi State University College of Veterinary

Medicine. In this role, she manages high-acuity

cases, mentors veterinary students, and collaborates

with specialists, helping bridge the gap between

academic medicine and private practice.

She is actively involved in several professional and

community organizations, including Pinelake Church,

the Mississippi State University College of Veterinary

Medicine Alumni Council (board member), the

Mississippi Veterinary Medical Association, and

the American Veterinary Medical Association.

Dr. Dewberry’s career has been shaped by her

ability to adapt and find balance. Becoming a mother

early in her professional journey challenged her to

restructure how she practiced, ultimately leading

to more intentional scheduling and deeper

empathy for clients and patients.

She is especially proud of her invitation to return

to MSU’s veterinary medical center emergency

department as faculty, an opportunity she describes

as both energizing and meaningful. Outside of work,

she enjoys baking, hand embroidery, gardening and

landscaping, and spending time in the sunshine.

Coldwell Banker SRE

Jessica Dotson is a dedicated realtor and broker

associate known for her client-focused approach

and strong ties to the community. A graduate of

Mississippi State University, she has built a thriving

real estate career grounded in integrity,

relationship-building, and consistent service

in a competitive market.

Jessica is recognized among the top 4% of

Coldwell Banker agents worldwide as a member of

the International President’s Circle and was honored

as the 2025 Realtor of the Year by the Greater

Golden Triangle Association of Realtors. She also

holds the Certified Residential Specialist and

Luxury Home Specialist designations and

was selected for the prestigious Leadership

Mississippi Association of Realtors Class of 2026.

Beyond real estate, Jessica is deeply involved in

her community, serving in leadership roles with

organizations such as the Golden Triangle Fair

Housing Committee, Project Peace, and the

Starkville Foundation for Public Education.

A devoted wife and mother, she enjoys supporting

her children’s activities, event planning, creative

marketing, and encouraging others. Her business

philosophy centers on building lasting relationships,

a mindset that has fueled her success through repeat

clients and referrals while allowing her to make a

meaningful impact in the lives of those she serves.

22 • JUNE 2026

top 20 under 40

José Elarba

Santee Ezell

Brittany Goss

Arepas Coffee & Bar

Starkvegas Pawnshop

José Elarba is an entrepreneur and restaurant

owner behind Arepas Coffee & Bar and

Starkvegas Pawnshop. Known for his determination

and resilience, José has built his businesses by

introducing unique flavors and concepts to the

community, overcoming the challenges of

operating in a market unfamiliar with his cuisine.

When faced with early struggles, he remained

committed—adapting his ideas, staying persistent,

and refusing to give up. His hard work paid off

as he successfully expanded to a second location

of Arepas, a milestone he considers one

of his proudest achievements.

Outside of work, José enjoys playing sports

and staying active. Guided by the belief that

“you have to keep moving when things are hard—

it’s your future you’re building,” he continues to

grow his businesses while inspiring others through

his perseverance and entrepreneurial spirit.

Black Girls Rock of MS, Inc.

Santee Ezell is a nonprofit philanthropy

professional and founder of Black Girls Rock of MS,

dedicated to empowering youth and strengthening

communities across Mississippi. She holds a B.A.

in sociology and a master’s in community

development, and is currently pursuing a Ph.D.

in human development and family science

at Mississippi State University.

Her work is rooted in public health, community

engagement, and youth development, with a

strong focus on creating opportunities for young

girls to lead, grow, and thrive. Alongside her

professional commitments, she is actively involved

in numerous civic and professional organizations,

including 100 Women Who Care, Kiwanis Club,

Starkville Community Foundation, and Gamma

Phi Delta Sorority, Inc., where she serves

in regional leadership.

One of the greatest challenges Santee has faced

in her career has been balancing professional

advancement with raising her children and

continuing her education. Navigating motherhood,

graduate studies, and full-time community work

required sacrifice and discipline. Through faith,

resilience, and an unwavering sense of purpose,

she remained committed to both her family and

her long-term academic and professional goals,

ultimately allowing each experience to

strengthen her leadership and impact.

Bootstraps & Butterflies

Digital Marketing

Brittany Goss is the owner and graphic designer

of Bootstraps & Butterflies Digital Marketing,

where she blends creativity and strategy to help

brands grow and stand out. A graduate of the

Savannah College of Art & Design (BFA) and

American Intercontinental University (MBA),

Brittany brings both artistic vision and

business expertise to her work.

Deeply rooted in her community, she serves

as president of J.L. Kings Community Center,

chairwoman of Oktibbeha County Unity Park, and

a founding member of Young Professionals of

Starkville. She is also an active chamber member

and a distance assistant online trainer

with Bible study fellowship.

A self-described creative at heart, Brittany

enjoys digital art, fashion design, knitting,

and baking. While naturally a homebody,

entrepreneurship has pushed her beyond her

comfort zone—helping her connect with others,

support her community, and grow both personally

and professionally. Her proudest achievement

is becoming a full-time business owner,

embracing both the challenges and the

freedom of building something she loves.


Terrence (TJ) Green, Jr.

Ellie Lipscomb

Dana Martin

TJ’s Animation Workshop

TJ Green is the CEO of TJ’s Animation Workshop,

where he helps businesses bring their ideas to life

through creative animation and visual storytelling.

A 2020 graduate of Mississippi State University

with a degree in business administration, TJ has

combined his entrepreneurial mindset with his

passion for creativity to build a growing brand.

A member of Phi Beta Sigma, TJ is driven by

both community and personal growth. His first

year as a full-time entrepreneur coincided with

COVID, forcing him to quickly adapt from in-person

networking to building connections through online

communities. That pivot expanded his reach and

opened doors to new opportunities.

TJ’s achievements include being named

Young Entrepreneur for the State of Mississippi

by the SBA and Young Entrepreneur of the Year

in Memphis in 2022. Known for his competitive

spirit and ability to quickly master new skills,

he continues to focus on growth while staying

grounded in a key lesson from his mentor:

keep it simple, stay focused, and follow through.

Regions Bank

Ellie Lipscomb is a commercial relationship

specialist and market executive assistant at

Regions Bank, where she supports commercial

banking portfolios across Starkville and Ridgeland

while helping drive community engagement in the

Golden Triangle. A 2023 graduate of Mississippi

State University with a degree in child development

and a Trauma-Informed Child Advocacy Certificate,

she is currently pursuing her

MBA at Auburn University.

Deeply involved in her community, Ellie serves

as a volunteer coach with Pinelake Church Little

Lakers, is a member of the Pilot Club of Starkville,

and participates on the steering team for RISE STK

Young Professionals. She also remains active with

the NMS Delta Gamma Alumni Chapter.

Ellie takes pride in the trust placed in her early in

her career, having already supported multiple

markets and mentored new team members.

Guided by a strong foundation of faith and service,

she approaches both her work and community with

a people-first mindset. Outside of work, she enjoys

reading, antiquing, traveling—especially to

Charleston—and spending time with

her daughter, Nora James.

L.A. Green

Dana Martin is the chief operating officer,

lead buyer, and sales manager at L.A. Green,

where she plays a key role in driving both strategic

growth and customer experience. A graduate of

Mississippi State University with a bachelor’s

degree in business and marketing, Dana has

built her career around strong relationship-building

and a deep understanding of retail.

An active member of the Greater Starkville

Development Partnership and a participant at

Redeemer Church, Dana stays engaged in both

her professional and local community. During the

challenges of COVID-19, she helped L.A. Green

adapt by implementing innovative “try-on bags” and

delivery services, ensuring customers could shop

safely while maintaining personal connections.

She also used that time to explore her creative side,

painting and selling artwork through Instagram.

Dana considers her promotion to chief operating

officer her proudest professional achievement.

Guided by the advice to prioritize relationships over

transactions, she has cultivated lasting customer

loyalty and continues to lead with a people-first

approach. In her free time, she enjoys painting,

blending creativity with her business mindset.

24 • JUNE 2026

top 20 under 40

Kim Moreland

Sarah Pellum

Joshua Rosonet

K Moreland and Jackson,

Alderman - Ward 1

City of Starkville

Kim Moreland owns K Moreland and Jackson,

and is also a dedicated public official. She serves

as alderman of Ward 1 for the City of Starkville.

A graduate of Starkville Academy and Mississippi

State, Kim earned a Bachelor of Business

Administration, and built a career rooted in

service, leadership, and community engagement.

Actively involved in Starkville and Oktibbeha

County, Kim is a member of the Starkville Rotary

Club, serves on the Oktibbeha County Advisory

Committee, and represents the Starkville Convention

and Visitor’s Bureau. Her commitment to her

community is reflected not only in her professional

roles but also in her passion for making a tangible

difference in the lives of those around her.

While she naturally shies away from the spotlight,

Kim has pushed beyond her comfort zone to

grow as a leader, embracing preparation and

perseverance as keys to success. Her proudest

achievement is becoming an elected official,

where she finds fulfillment in serving and

supporting the community she loves.

Outside of work, Kim enjoys event planning,

organizing, building furniture, and even tackling

hands-on projects like rewiring trailer lights. Guided

by the advice to always prioritize the customer over

profit, she approaches both business and public

service with authenticity, passion, and a genuine

desire to make an impact.

Coffee Depot

Sarah Pellum is the owner of Coffee Depot,

where she has turned a longtime dream into a

thriving, community-centered business. A graduate

with a Bachelor of Exercise Science, Sarah

has combined her passion for wellness, connection,

and hospitality to create a welcoming space that

reflects her energy and vision.

Outside of work, Sarah enjoys traveling to new

places to run races, diving into a good book,

attending Pilates classes, and hosting themed dinner

parties that bring people together. She also serves as

a board member for Starkville Derby, contributing her

time and creativity to local community events.

One of the biggest challenges Sarah has faced in

her professional journey has been overcoming

doubts from others due to her age. She credits her

strong support system for helping her push past

those perceptions, encouraging her to stay

confident and focused on her goals. Seeing

Coffee Depot come to life remains her proudest

accomplishment—a dream that has become

her everyday reality.

Guided by the advice to build a business she

truly loves and believes in, Sarah approaches

each day with gratitude and a positive attitude.

Her commitment to authenticity and passion

continues to shape both her business and

her impact on the community.

Pinelake Church

Joshua Rosonet serves as the Starkville Campus

worship pastor at Pinelake Church where he

combines his passion for ministry with a deep

love for creativity. A graduate of the University of

Southern Mississippi with a degree in entertainment

industry production, Joshua is also a skilled

photographer and creative, using his talents to

serve both the church and the broader community.

Known for his dynamic involvement, Joshua has

contributed to initiatives such as Make-A-Wish

Mississippi’s Evening of Wishes Gala and has

partnered with local organizations like the Starkville

Partnership to capture and celebrate community

events. He regularly leads worship across campuses

and regional gatherings, bringing people together

through music during both joyful and

challenging moments.

Outside of his professional life, Joshua enjoys

planning Disney World trips—having helped dozens

experience their first visit—and playing disc golf,

a hobby he’s pursued for over 20 years. He values

relationships deeply and has learned the importance

of balance in his career, embracing limits after

experiencing burnout early on. Joshua takes pride

in moments where his lifelong dreams intersect

with his calling, always striving to lead authentically,

create meaningfully, and remain grateful for the

opportunities placed before him.


NaToya Sanders

Sydney Sanford

Clare Sones

Mississippi State Foundation

NaToya Sanders serves as assistant director of

development for the Mississippi State Foundation,

where she leverages her background in marketing

and public policy to build meaningful relationships

and advance philanthropic impact.

Deeply engaged in her community and profession,

NaToya has served in numerous leadership and

advisory roles, including as a member of the

Neonatal Research Network Community

Engagement Board and a founding member of

the Neonatal Family Advisory and Support Team

at the University of Mississippi Medical Center.

She is also a member of Mississippi State’s

Lactation Committee and a fellow of several

distinguished leadership programs, including LEAP,

MELPP, and the Mississippi Black Leadership Institute.

NaToya’s career journey reflects resilience and

purpose. After the loss of her son following an

extended NICU stay, she made the difficult decision

to step away from her career to focus on healing—

an experience that ultimately strengthened her

perspective and commitment to personal well-being.

Today, she is especially proud of pushing beyond

her comfort zone to successfully engage high-level

leaders, including securing a visit from a White

House official to Mississippi State.

In her free time, NaToya enjoys cooking, reading,

gardening, working out, and binge-watching shows.

A former pianist who played by ear as a child, she

brings creativity and passion to both her personal

and professional life. Guided by the belief that

“no” often means “not right now,” she approaches

her work with persistence, accountability,

and confidence.

Starkville Smiles

Dr. Sydney Sanford is a general dentist at Starkville

Smiles. She earned her Bachelor of Science in

biological sciences with a minor in business

administration from Mississippi State in 2016 and

completed her doctor of dental medicine at the

University of Mississippi Medical Center in 2020.

She is actively involved in organized dentistry and

professional service, serving as president of

Mississippi Dental Association District 1 through

the Mississippi Dental Association, and is a member

of the Junior Auxiliary of Starkville, director of the

Crown Club of Starkville, and member of the Pierre

Fauchard Academy. She attends Pinelake Church

Starkville Campus as a member and greeter.

Her biggest achievement thus far is becoming

president for the Mississippi Dental Association

District 1. Helping to plan and direct district business

meetings, and being involved in education events,

Dr. Sanford has met most dental professionals in the

district and several dentists throughout the state.

She says being part of the MDA has been vital to

learning how to strengthen and improve dentistry

through legislation and lobbying for the future.

Dr. Sanford enjoys reading with a women’s book

club, playing mahjong in a local league, and traveling.

Her professional philosophy centers on providing

excellent clinical care while treating patients with

empathy and helping them leave with a more

positive outlook on dentistry.

Mississippi State University

Clare Sones is the assistant director of enrollment

marketing at Mississippi State, where she helps

lead strategic efforts to support student

recruitment and enrollment initiatives.

She earned her B.S. in fashion design and

merchandising from Mississippi State in 2020

and is currently an MBA candidate,

expected to graduate in 2026.

Clare’s professional background spans retail

management, banking, and higher education,

giving her a versatile perspective on leadership

and organizational growth. She is especially proud

of her time with Target Corporation, where she

served as an operations and logistics executive team

leader, managing a $60 million store and leading

more than 200 employees. She also worked

as a traveling ETL, supporting store openings

in multiple markets, including New Orleans

and Mandeville, Louisiana.

She is an active member of First Presbyterian

Church Starkville and serves as an advisor to

the Phi Delta Chapter of Chi Omega.

Outside of work, Clare enjoys cooking and baking,

reformer Pilates, painting, and traveling with her

husband, Mitchell. One of the most meaningful

challenges in her career has been transitioning

across industries and applying her skills in new

environments, which has strengthened her

adaptability and leadership approach.

Her guiding professional philosophy comes from

advice to “look in the mirror first”—believing that

improvement, accountability, and success begin with

personal responsibility and consistent self-reflection.

26 • JUNE 2026

top 20 under 40

Jessica Taylor

DeVonte Thomas

Paige Watson

Revolution Resale Co.

Jessica Taylor is the owner of Revolution Resale Co.,

a locally-rooted retail business known for its

elevated resale shopping experience and strong

community presence. A graduate of Northwest

Mississippi Community College with additional

training in cosmetology and barbering, she

combines entrepreneurial drive with a

strong creative background.

Jessica brings over a decade of hands-on industry

experience, having worked her way through every

aspect of the business before purchasing both the

company and its property in December 2025.

Her leadership is defined by patience, long-term

vision, and a commitment to building lasting

relationships with customers, vendors,

and the broader Starkville community.

Deeply community-oriented, she is an ambassador

with the Greater Starkville Development Partnership,

Starkville Young Professionals, and other local and

industry organizations. She is also a passionate

supporter of Mississippi State athletics, often traveling

to follow the Bulldogs, and enjoys volunteering,

networking, and supporting local initiatives.

Outside of business, Jessica is a creative force who

enjoys cooking, fashion, interior merchandising,

DIY projects, and outdoor adventures.

Her background in hair and makeup artistry,

and her natural ability to connect with people,

contribute to her engaging, people-first approach

to both business and community involvement.

One of the best pieces of business advice Jessica

ever received was to stay calm, think clearly, and

never overreact when challenges arise. This lesson

has helped her to build strong relationships in the

community, lead her team with confidence,

and grow a business that she can be proud of.

Community Bank

DeVonte Thomas is vice president at Community

Bank, where he focuses on leadership, client

relationships, and community-centered banking.

A graduate of Mississippi State with a Bachelor

of Business Administration in finance, he has

built his career around growth, mentorship,

and service in the community he calls home.

He is actively involved in several civic and

professional organizations, including the Boys & Girls

Clubs of North Mississippi, Starkville Rotary Club,

Starkville Young Professionals, and Make-A-Wish

Mississippi, as well as serving as a board member

for Take a Swing at Cancer.

One of his biggest professional challenges was

being the youngest person in the room early in his

career, which he overcame by learning from mentors

and building confidence in his leadership abilities.

He is especially proud of being selected to return

to Starkville to help open a bank office in his alma

mater’s hometown. His guiding business philosophy

is to “be yourself,” a principle that has shaped his

confidence, community involvement, and commitment

to leaving every place better than he found it.

Starkville Main Street Association

Paige Watson serves as director of the Starkville

Main Street Association, where she leads efforts

to strengthen and promote downtown Starkville

through community engagement, events, and

economic development initiatives. She earned a

Master of Arts in advertising and public relations

from The University of Alabama and a

Bachelor of Arts in communication

from Mississippi State.

Her professional work is rooted in a deep

commitment to community connection, reflected in

her leadership and involvement with organizations

including Junior Auxiliary of Starkville, the Starkville

Foundation for Public Education, the Palmer Home

for Children MSU Tailgate Committee, and the

Children’s of Mississippi “Kites and Rainbows Run”

steering committee. She is also a member of

Starkville Global Methodist Church.

Paige is passionate about creating

experiences that bring people together including

the development and success of the “Downtown

at Sundown” summer concert series. She is known

for her adaptability in community development,

her belief in honoring tradition while embracing

change, and her guiding principle that “how you

do one thing is how you do everything.”

Outside of work, she enjoys pickleball,

traveling, spending time with friends and family,

and cheering on Mississippi State Athletics.


Starkville-Oktibbeha

BEST OF THE BEST

top

UNDER

Whitney Wofford

The Flower Company

The Warehouse Market

Whitney Wofford is the owner of The Flower

Company and co-owner of The Warehouse Market.

She earned a bachelor’s degree in business

administration and marketing from Mississippi State

and has built a career rooted in entrepreneurship,

creativity, and community revitalization in Starkville.

Whitney began her floral business while still a

sophomore in college, launching it from inside

Welch Funeral Home and navigating the challenges

of starting a business at a young age. What began

as a small venture has grown into a thriving company,

with The Warehouse Market playing a role in

revitalizing a new area of Starkville.

She is actively involved in the community

as a partnership ambassador, floral sponsor for

Starkville Derby, founder of the Southern Wedding

Bridal Show, and contributor to JL King Center

events and Grape Gatsby as a library designer.

Her greatest professional achievement is

building her business from the ground up, while

her guiding business philosophy is shaped by her

grandmother’s example of generosity, mentorship,

and resilience. Outside of work, she enjoys

working out, hiking, and spending time

with her son and family.

Whitney’s biggest influence is her grandmother.

She credits her to being a constant role model

when it comes to business, blessing and helping

Whitney in many ways–she hopes to do

the same for her child one day.

Marc Wood

Bank of Commerce

Marc Wood is a relationship manager

with Bank of Commerce, where he works with

individuals and businesses to help them achieve

their financial goals through personalized lending

solutions. He holds an associate’s degree from

Itawamba Community College, a bachelor’s degree

from Mississippi State, and a master’s from the

University of Louisiana at Lafayette, bringing

a strong academic foundation to his role

in banking and community development.

Marc is actively involved in the Starkville

community, serving on the steering committee

for Starkville Young Professionals and participating

in the Greater Starkville Development Partnership.

He is passionate about building meaningful

relationships and takes pride in serving his

community each day. His professional approach

is shaped by the guidance of mentors and a

commitment to authenticity, guided by the advice

he values most: “Be genuine, be honest, be yourself.”

Outside of work, Marc enjoys golf, hunting, hiking,

fishing, and attending Mississippi State athletic

events. He notes that one of his ongoing

professional challenges has been establishing

credibility as a younger professional among

seasoned business leaders, a challenge he has

overcome through education, experience,

and relationship-building. Rather than focusing

on a single achievement, he considers his

greatest success to be the opportunity to

consistently serve and support his community.

CONGRATULATIONS

TO ALL THE

WINNERS!

Hometown

Starkville

Magazine

looks forward

to telling your

stories as your

stars continue

to shine.

28 • JUNE 2026


KARLEY WOODS

PKL ROW BRINGS YEAR-ROUND

PLAY & SOCIAL SPACE

The courts are full, and

have been for a while.

Across Starkville, pickleball is no

longer a niche hobby. It is a daily

routine, a social outlet and, for many,

a competitive sport. PKL Row is the

city’s answer to that momentum.

On any given afternoon, the courts at

McKee Park are alive. Paddles echo across the

pavement, players rotate in and out of games

and a line forms along the fence, each person

waiting for their turn. Some have been coming

for years. Others just picked it up last week.

All of them are part of a sport that continues

to grow.

30 • JUNE 2026

Pickleball has been named the fastestgrowing

sport in America for five consecutive

years, with participation increasing by more

than 171% between 2018 and 2022. By 2024,

the sport had nearly twenty million players

nationwide, according to Forbes. That growth

is exactly what sparked a new addition to

Starkville’s recreational scene.

PKL Row, an indoor pickleball establishment

and lounge set to open midsummer, is designed

to give players a place to play year-round while

also creating a space for the community to

gather. “This was sort of the brainchild of one

of our founders,” said Wesley Ferguson, one of

the project’s developers. “There’s nothing like

this in Starkville, and pickleball is the nation’s

fastest growing sport.

We wanted to create something

that enhances quality of life here.”

The facility will feature 12 indoor courts,

a lounge area known as “The Hangar,” and

additional elements like a golf simulation bay,

event space, and seating areas designed for

both players and spectators.

But while the courts are the centerpiece,

the vision goes beyond the game itself.

“We want it to be more than just pickleball,”

Ferguson said. “Yes, that’s the primary focus,

but we want this to be a place where people

come to gather, whether they’re playing or not.”

The design of the facility was shaped

heavily by its location near the Starkville airport.

The aviation theme developed naturally once

the team committed to the site. That design

direction became the foundation for “The

Hangar,” the facility’s lounge and social space.

Leah Sullivan, owner of Sabbath Studios, also

played a major role in shaping PKL Row’s

identity beyond the courts themselves.

Sullivan contributed heavily to the facility’s

branding and overall aesthetic, helping develop

the merchandise theme, marketing approach,

social media presence and website design

throughout the process.

Carley Dunaway, an architect with Dunaway

Williams Architects who worked on the project

described the overall style of PKL Row as

“sophisticated industrial,” blending the feel of

the nearby industrial park with a more modern,

community-centered atmosphere.

As the project evolved, the vision expanded

beyond pickleball courts alone. In a college town

like Starkville, the owners saw an opportunity to

create more than just courts, designing PKL

Row to also serve as a destination for events

and entertainment. The facility will include

gathering spaces, golf simulators and lounge

areas to encourage people to stay after their

games are over.

For longtime players like Lou Fratesi, that

balance between recreation and community

is key. Fratesi, who has spent years playing on

Starkville’s outdoor courts, said those spaces

still hold a special place in his heart. But he sees

PKL Row as a natural next step for the sport in

the community. “This indoor facility would offer

the ability to play no matter the weather or

temperature and the availability of court time,”

Fratesi said. “The courts would not be subject

to the harsh elements.” The lounge concept also

adds something Starkville’s pickleball scene has

not traditionally offered: a space built for

connection off the court.

That same sense of opportunity is something

Mississippi State student and club pickleball

player Lily Holliday said she immediately

recognized. “I’m excited most about having an

indoor recreation space for both the community

and students to enjoy,” Holliday said.

“Starkville has always lacked in the indoor

recreation and entertainment department.

This facility fills that void and provides fun,

active entertainment for all ages.” For Holliday,

the appeal is both practical and social.


“I absolutely see PKL Row as a

prime hangout spot for students,

whether they play pickleball or not.”

“I’m excited to have an indoor pickleball

place so I can play year-round and not have to

worry about playing in 90 degree Mississippi

heat or 20 mph wind gusts during the winter,”

she said. Holliday emphasized that the facility’s

impact extends beyond the courts. “I absolutely

see PKL Row as a prime hangout spot for

students, whether they play pickleball or not.”

“It’s not going to feel like a rec facility,”

Ferguson said. “It’s going to feel like a

place you want to hang out, a fun environment

where everyone feels comfortable. It’s truly

going to be a destination with pickleball at its

center.”

In addition to daily play, PKL Row plans

to host tournaments, leagues, lessons and

youth camps, expanding its role beyond

casual recreation.

Along with existing outdoor courts, the

facility could help Starkville host larger tournaments,

bringing players and visitors into the

city and creating an economic benefit for the

community.

As Starkville continues to grow, projects like

PKL Row reflect a broader shift, one that focuses

not just on adding amenities, but on creating

spaces where people can spend time together.

For Sullivan, that sense of community was

never a byproduct of the project. It was the brief.

“This is bigger than pickleball,” she said. “The

courts, The Hangar, the simulator, the events

— the owners built something Starkville can

actually gather around. I don’t think we’ve

scratched the surface of what this place is

going to mean here.

32 • JUNE 2026


Starkville

Evening of Wishes

May 6 - The Mill Conference Center

Presented by Bracken Construction

34 • JUNE 2026

Photo - LC Photography


36 • JUNE 2026

A Family

Shaped by Faith

& Community

KARLEY WOODS

For Pattie and David Little, Starkville

became home long before they ever

expected it to. On a summer day in 2019,

Pattie and David were shopping for last-minute

dorm room items for their daughter, Lake. In just

a matter of hours, everything changed.

The sudden plane crash that took 18-year-old Lake Little

shook their family to its core, altering the course of their lives

forever. But in the years since, the Littles have continued

doing what they have always believed in most: serving others,

leaning on their faith, and pouring themselves into the Starkville

community they have called home for over two decades.

The couple first moved to Starkville in 2005 after David

Little received a promotion through Farm Bureau Insurance

Company, where he has worked since 1988. At the time, neither

he nor Pattie had ties to Mississippi State University or family

connections in the area, but they saw promise in the city’s

growth and opportunities for their children.

“We felt a growing college town would present many

opportunities for our three young children,” David said.

For Pattie, Starkville quickly stood out because of its unique

balance between the energy of a college town and the closeness

of a tight-knit community. She remembers immediately

noticing the local restaurants, coffee shops, live music, and

arts scene that gave the city its personality.

Over time, the Littles became deeply woven into the fabric

of the community themselves. David eventually stepped into

public service after a conversation with friends about local

politics encouraged him to run for office. In 2013, he entered

the Ward 3 alderman race against an incumbent and won.

He later served two terms on the Starkville Board of Aldermen.

“I decided to get off the sidelines,” David said.

Serving in office gave him a new perspective on leadership

and the realities of public service. “It really gives you a much

better perspective as the job appears much easier when you’re

reading newspaper articles or social media posts, but it really

can be very difficult at times, depending on the subject matter,

when you’re sitting in the board chair,” he said.


“We couldn’t have

made it without

our faith.”

Still, he says the rewarding moments outweighed the

difficult ones, especially when he could help solve problems

for members of the community.

For Pattie, service has always extended beyond one

specific title or role. “We have always enjoyed serving our

communities, whether in a church role, a civic or school

organization, or volunteering through a non-profit,” she

said. “Something we tried teaching our kids was servant

leadership and investing in the community you call home.”

That mindset shaped not only the couple’s approach to

leadership,but also the way they raised their family.

Pattie describes the Littles as a “very typical southern

family,” centered on faith, traditions, and time spent

together. Their three children – Layton, Patton, and Lake

– grew up closely connected, often spending summers

vacationing in Destin at the same small beach house each

year that the family affectionately nicknamed “The Little

House.” “We’re very fortunate to have many, many

wonderful memories as a family of five,” Pattie said.

Faith also became a foundation within the home. Pattie

remembers praying together as a family from the time the

children were very young, even calling home from work trips

to say prayers with them over the phone before bedtime.

“I think rooting them in faith from an early age helped them

establish their relationship with Jesus,” she said. That faith

would later become what carried the family through

unimaginable grief.

On July 6, 2019, the Littles lost Lake in a sudden plane

crash just weeks before she was set to begin college.

For David, the loss changed everything. “This rocked me

personally and our family to the core, to the deepest depths

of grief and despair,” he said. Still, he says faith remained

constant through the pain. “But God! He was and continues

to be good and faithful,” David said. “We could not have

made it without our faith.”

Even years later, grief continues to appear unexpectedly

in everyday moments. “Now something as small as a smell,

a song, a photo, a bouncing ponytail in the distance with

blonde hair, brings the loss flooding back sometimes with

tears and others with a smile of remembrance,” he said.

38 • JUNE 2026

Pattie remembers Lake as “beautiful, sassy, bossy” and

full of life. She says her daughter had a way of making others

feel happy and cared for, especially her brothers and closest

friends.

But more than anything, Pattie says she remembers

Lake’s faith. “She was filled with His spirit,” Pattie said.

“Her salvation, her eternal home, is with HIM, and there

is NO doubt she is home safe with family living on the

streets of gold in heaven.”

In the years since, the Littles say the support from the

Starkville community helped sustain them through the

hardest season of their lives.

“I believe our family is whole, in large part, due to

everyone who prayed for us, showed up for us and loved us

during the worst time of our lives,” Pattie said. “We will

forever be grateful and indebted to our community.”

Today, both Pattie and David remain active in church

ministries, local organizations and civic leadership. David

serves with the men’s ministry at First Baptist Church of

Starkville, the Starkville Cemetery board and the Golden

Triangle Development Authority. Pattie remains involved

in numerous community organizations while also serving

as District 4 supervisor and working full-time for Warrior

Energy Corp.

Through every chapter of life, the Littles say their goal

has remained the same: to serve others well and point people

back to their faith.

“Life is just a vapor,” David said. “You actually live twice.

Once for a short time as a sojourner on this earth and

another for all eternity.”

Nearly 20 years after arriving in Starkville with three

young children and no ties to the city, Pattie and David

Little have become woven into the fabric of the community

itself. Through leadership roles, church ministries, family

traditions and heartbreaking loss, they have continued to

show up for the people around them.

And while grief remains part of their story, so does faith,

service, and the town they say carried them through their

darkest days.


Mamas, Messes, & Miracles CHRISTY MAULDING

Dominoes,

Gardens,

& Grace

There’s something

beautifully quiet about

the relationship

between a father

and a daughter.

Unlike mothers, fathers often teach

differently, sometimes without saying much

at all. Their lessons are tucked inside ordinary

moments, hidden between garden rows,

kitchen tables, ballfields, and car rides.

Daughters may not fully understand it at

the time, but those moments shape the way

they love, trust, persevere, and walk through

the world as adults.

This month, we celebrate Father’s Day,

a time to honor the men who have guided us,

supported us, sacrificed for us, and loved us

in ways that were often quiet and steady

rather than loud and attention-seeking.

For me, that reflection always leads me to

my daddy.

When I think back on growing up, I don’t

think nearly as much about grand gestures as

I do simple presence. Standing beside him in

the garden, sitting under the fan in the carport

sharing stories and memories, sitting shotgun

beside him as we went to feed cows, the steady

click of dominoes at the kitchen table, looking

up during a 4-H event, school program, or

athletic event, and always knowing exactly

where to find him. Whether it involved me

or my younger brother, Daddy was there,

not distracted, but fully present. And the

older I get, the more I realize those moments

were teaching both of us far more than we

understood at the time.

40 • JUNE 2026

I think dads often show us strength

differently. Not always through displays of

emotion, but through resilience, courage,

steadiness, and presence.

As I’ve gotten older, I’ve realized every

father carries struggles that are not always

spoken aloud. And as daughters, through the

years, we often witness sacrifices and silent

battles the rest of the world never sees–

moments of loss, setbacks, worry, exhaustion,

and responsibility quietly carried without

complaint. Watching my daddy taught me

something important: when life knocks you

down, you get back up.

I watched the way he handled life’s

pressures steadily and without drama. When

things went wrong or unexpected setbacks

appeared, he approached problems as things

to solve, not fear. He taught responsibility

through example. He taught dependability in

a world where so many promises go unfulfilled.

And maybe one of the most important things

I watched was how he treated people.

The way he loved my mama, with gentleness,

respect, and consistency. The way he cared

for his own mama, visiting her daily and taking

her lunch every day when she could no longer

care for herself the way she once had. The way

he stayed connected to his siblings, because

family has always meant everything to him.

Daddy taught me empathy, kindness, and

integrity. He taught my younger brother and

me how people deserve to be treated, and how

we should expect to be treated in return.

And sometimes he was also the first person

pushing us beyond our comfort zone, teaching

us to ride a bike, fix things, and work hard.

He taught my brother and me not be afraid

to fail, but to get back up and try again.

Somewhere along the way, I realized

something powerful: The greatest lessons

fathers teach are often the ones spoken

without words at all. Children learn more

from what fathers do than what they say.

In Ephesians 6:4, the Bible reminds fathers

to “bring them up in the training and

instruction of the Lord.” It is a reminder that

fatherhood is not simply about authority, but

about guidance, patience, consistency, and love.

Scripture paints a picture of fatherhood

that is much deeper than simply providing

financially or being “the man of the house.”

A godly father leads with love. He guides.

He protects. He listens. He keeps his word.

He serves his family selflessly. He encourages

and builds up. He shows his children what

faith looks like by the way he lives every single

day. And while no earthly father does these

things perfectly, the best fathers give us a glimpse

of something greater, the unwavering love of

our Heavenly Father.

Psalm 103:13 reminds us: “As a father has

compassion on his children, so the Lord has

compassion on those who fear Him.” The

older I get, the more clearly I see that connection

in the way my own daddy has loved us

consistently through every season of life.

In my daddy’s steady presence, in his

dependability, and in the grace he showed

through mistakes and hard seasons, I see a

reflection of the unwavering love of my

Heavenly Father.

The Bible gives us many names for God,

each revealing His character and His love for

His children. He is Emmanuel, “God with us.”

He is Jehovah Jireh, our Provider. He is our

Refuge, our Shepherd, our Comforter, our

Everlasting Father. In every season of life,

Scripture reminds us that we are never alone.

Just as a loving father steadies his child

learning to ride a bike, walks beside them

through uncertainty, encourages them after

failure, and quietly reassures them that

someone always has their back, our Heavenly

Father does the same for us every single day.

He walks with us through grief and joy,

uncertainty and celebration, and through

failures, fears, and fresh beginnings. His love

is patient, constant, and unwavering.

And maybe that is one of the greatest

gifts a godly father can give his children,

not perfection, but a glimpse of the faithful

love of God.

This Father’s Day, some will celebrate

joyful memories, some will grieve fathers

they miss deeply, and some men are striving

every day to become better fathers than the

examples they were given. Some fathers just

may quietly be wondering if the ordinary

things they do truly even matter. They do!

Because sometimes the most powerful kind of

love is the quiet kind, the kind that simply keeps

showing up, day after day, year after year.

And that, sweet friend, is the kind

of love that changes generations.


42 • JUNE 2026

PHOTOS Saxon Cam

Starkville named

Best Small Town

in the South

...Again!

There’s something special about small towns in the South—

their charm and unmistakable sense of hospitality. That’s exactly

what readers across the country recognized when Starkville was

again named USA Today’s Best Small Town in the South for 2026.

With its vibrant community and growing university, Starkville

continues to stand out as a place people are proud to call home,

so we asked Mayor Lynn Spruill to share her thoughts

on this honor and what makes Starkville

such a standout Southern town.

The people of

Starkville are the

only reason this

is such a special

place to live

and visit.

Mayor Lynn Spruill


44 • JUNE 2026

Starkville has been named best small town in the South by

USA Today for the third year in a row—what does that kind

of consistency say about our community?

I believe the first thing to understand about this recognition

is that tourism specialists not related to Starkville nominate us.

Having said that, I believe it means we consistently show how

special we are in the ways that make small towns warm and

welcoming to tourists and "home" to residents. This is a daily trait,

not a rarity that we exhibit on special occasions. Starkville puts her

best foot forward every day, and the result is that consecutive

selection as the best small town in the South. It is a tribute to

our residents and how they make people feel every day.

How do the people of Starkville contribute to making it

such a special place to live and visit?

The people of Starkville are the only reason this is such a special

place to live and visit. By having engaging citizens who care, we

become a place where people want to be. Every time a resident takes

the time to give directions, pick up litter, say hello to someone they

don't know, or stop to chat and wave to a neighbor, they have

contributed to our story of being special.

Are there specific community values or priorities that

you believe have helped sustain this level of recognition?

I think that the sense of warmth and friendliness that I so

often hear from our visitors is the predominant theme. The athletic

events held at the university create opportunities for rivalry that can

be less than welcoming, but the result in Starkville is quite the

contrary. There are multiple stories of interactions between visitors

from rival teams and fans that have resulted in tailgating parties and

sharing left field lounge feasts with players, coaches, and umpires in

the outfield. It is something that we take pride in as the host city.

I also believe that our community as a whole cares deeply

about our residents not just our visitors. The multiples of

community organizations respond quickly and broadly to our

residents who are in need. This caring approach resonates

throughout the city and county.

We believe in taking care of the small things such as keeping

a clean city and attending to the details of signs and landscaping.

It’s those small things that add up to reflecting a place where people

are serious about being good neighbors and good citizens.


As Starkville continues to grow, how do you ensure the

city holds on to the charm and sense of community that

earned this recognition in the first place?

That is a challenge I believe we can manage. Again, our people

will make the difference. Our growth is moderate. Our efforts to

cater to people include keeping the friendliness that is Starkville

front and center. We are doing that by establishing a downtown and

central business district that is people-oriented and allows for places

to be sociable, not just pass through on the way to somewhere else.

The identity that small local businesses bring to a small town will

remain the focus of our support structure. Keeping Starkville as a safe

community through investment in our employees and public safety

systems is paramount to residents' comfort within our city.

Do you feel this kind of spotlight changes how residents

see their own hometown?

I believe that our residents share a pride of place, but this

recognition certainly validates that pride as a legitimate feeling that

we are special. I don't know that it changes how we see ourselves,

but more accurately, it cements what we already know.

What do you think Starkville is doing right that keeps it

standing out among other Southern small towns?

Starkville loves to welcome visitors. We enjoy sharing our food,

our events, our parks, and our everyday activities. We communicate

that through social media interactions and on-the-street encounters.

We joyfully work to share Starkville with others and that love of the

city comes through to others every day. How can you not want to

come to Starkville when so many residents feel positive about

their home?

Signature experiences and events that take place throughout

the year continue to draw people in. How important are these

traditions to Starkville’s identity?

Those events are paramount to our identity. That’s a strong part

of why people see us as a great place to visit. Once you’ve visited here,

you want to come back, and often you aspire to make it your home.

This happens more often than you might think. I spend Saturday

mornings at the community market during the summer, and I’m

frequently told that someone has come here for an event, which has

led to frequent visits and later the desire to move here. It’s a fact that

gives me great pleasure for the ambiance and welcoming nature of

my hometown.

What makes you most proud to serve as mayor of a city

that continues to receive this kind of recognition?

I am so proud of Starkville. Her residents and employees are

amazing and this recognition fully reflects that. To share this space with

the people who created a new reality for my hometown and to enjoy

the community’s support over these many years is a great honor and

pleasure. All the improvements we have made from the park system

to the street projects to the downtown Main Street rejuvenation

bring us toward a future that is inclusive and focuses on families and

the generations to come. Amenities and activities that encourage

everyone to enjoy their friends and neighbors matter for our

hometown culture and future planning; this work is a labor of love

for me. I will be forever grateful for the opportunity to contribute

positively to the Best Small Town in the South.

46 • JUNE 2026

Your BOC Starkville Local

Relationship Team

Your BOC local leaders are committed to working with you by using smarter banking to

help you succeed. Contact your local branch and ask for one of our BOC Team Members!

BRIAN

JONES

Senior VP /

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JOHNNY

RAY

Executive VP / Chief

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MARCUS

WOOD

Relationship

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JAY

COOK

VP /

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bankcom.com


48 • JUNE 2026

BONNIE COBLENTZ

Biennial High School Reunion

Generates Scholarship Funds

A small scholarship started in 1968

by male athletes has evolved into an

inclusive fund that preserves the legacy

of students at Oktibbeha County’s thensegregated

high schools and is sustained

by alumni engagement and community

reunions.

Charles (Chuck) Ware is president of

the Oktibbeha County Training School,

Henderson High School, Starkville High

School, Alexander High School Scholarship

Fund. He said the scholarship fund

provides financial support to current

Starkville Oktibbeha Consolidated School

District students, and it maintains alumni

connections across decades.

“It started with the football players,” Ware said. “These guys

came up with the idea of providing money to help kids go to

college. It was first called the Sam Skinner Scholarship Fund.”

These men graduated from what was then the Oktibbeha County

Training School, or OCTS. OCTS became Henderson High School

in 1959. Skinner was the coach for the boys athletic programs and

later the athletic director at Henderson.

The scholarship pays a small stipend to help college-bound young

people buy such things as books, clothes and fund transportation

for college. “This went on with just the guys for a long time,” Ware

said. “But the numbers started to shrink in terms of contribution

and participation, and they decided to bring in the ladies” to help

fund the scholarship.

In 1999, then-Coach Ray Self proposed expanding the scholarship

fund beyond OCTS to include all Henderson High School graduates

and anyone who attended these schools. “This became the OCTS

Henderson High School Scholarship Fund, and the funds were for

young adults who were continuing their education beyond high

school, whether it was a trade school, community college or four-year

university,” Ware said. “The goal was to give at least one $1,000

scholarship each year. That goal is still the same.”

Complete records were kept starting in 1999, and the scholarship

was extended to any student in public school in Oktibbeha County.

“We awarded scholarships to 197 high

school graduates in Oktibbeha County

from 1999-2025,” Ware said. “Since

2015, we awarded scholarships

totaling $115,900, and an additional

$17,400 was awarded to 18 students

on May 14.”

Today, the money is raised by

sending about 400 letters to graduates

of the participating institutions,

asking for contributions. Every other

year, the group holds a reunion

banquet, allowing contributors and

alumni to gather and socialize. Scholarships

are presented at these events.

This year’s banquet will be held

July 2-3 at The Mill in Starkville. An estimated 275 people are

expected to attend. Although primarily funded by Black graduates

of the then-segregated schools, the fund now receives support

from Starkville area banking. The scholarship is open to any

graduate of the Starkville Oktibbeha Consolidated School District.

The fund is a 501c3 charitable organization.

Ware graduated from Henderson High School in 1967, then the

University of Mississippi with a dual major in chemistry and biology.

“I grew up in the 1960s,” he said. “The focus of most parents was

on you going to school and getting an education. Parents weren’t

telling their kids to get out and protest and break windows. They

were telling us the way you’re going to get ahead and do something

meaningful in life is to get an education.”

During a 30-year career in the United States Army in which he

earned the rank of colonel, Ware earned a master’s degree in

clinical psychology from Mississippi State and an MBA in finance

from Long Island University in New York.

His last job in the United States Army was deputy commandant

of the U.S. Army War College at Carlisle, Penn. He then served in

the Pentagon as the senior analyst for training and leader development

for the Army Operations Directorate.

Ware returned home to Starkville in 2012. He and his wife,

Alta Kate Coats Ware, met in grade school and married in 1971.

They have two children, Charles (Chip) and Courtney.


50 • JUNE 2026

Mahjong & Magnolias

Why Starkville Is Falling in Love with the Game

CHRISTY MAULDING

By now, chances are you have

heard the familiar click-clack of

Mahjong tiles somewhere

around Starkville.

Maybe it was around a dining room table

during girls’ night. Maybe it was at Browning

Creek, the Starkville Country Club, Big E’s,

or even in Left Field Lounge at Dudy Noble

Field. Across Starkville and Oktibbeha County,

Mahjong has quietly become one of the fastestgrowing

social hobbies in town.

What was once considered a pastime

associated mostly with older generations has

suddenly become one of America’s trendiest

games. According to the National Mah Jongg

League, more than 350,000 people now play

American Mahjong nationwide, and Starkville

appears to be happily joining the craze.

But longtime players insist the game’s appeal

goes far beyond colorful tiles and trendy

accessories. “Mahjong has always been a way to

find community,” explains historian and author

Annelise Heinz, whose work explores the

game’s cultural history in America. That sense

of connection may be exactly why Mahjong

is thriving in a world that can feel isolated

and digital.

For many Starkville women, Mahjong has

become more than a hobby. It has become a

standing weekly gathering, a reason to unplug,

and a place to laugh, talk, and build friendships

across generations. “One thing I love about

Mahjong is that it brings all ages together,”


shared one local player. “We have people ages

18 to 80 playing together and they are having a

great time!”

Another player described it this way: “Playing

Mahjong is both a challenge and a fun time to

be with friends who enjoy winning and can also

deal with losing. It’s a regular part of our lives, the

same day each week, around the table. It’s a time

for conversations, laughter, time with friends and

making new connections.”

There are card games, and there are board

games, and then there is Mahjong. At first glance,

the game can look intimidating. There are symbols

to learn, categories to memorize, and strategies

to master. Players work to build winning 14-tile

hands while adapting to what is unfolding around

the table. However, enthusiasts insist that once you

begin learning, something clicks. After playing

just a few games, you begin to get the lingo down

as you are doing the bam, bird, dot. And all the

while, they say, the game is doing something

powerful inside the brain.

Studies suggest Mahjong can help improve

memory, hand-eye coordination, attention span,

and decision-making skills. Players describe the

game as mentally stimulating in a way that feels

both productive and enjoyable. Experts say learning

new games and patterns can help strengthen

cognitive pathways in both older and younger

adults. Mahjong constantly challenges players to

recognize patterns, calculate probabilities, think

strategically, and pivot quickly. And pivoting

happens often. In many ways, players say, that is

part of the point.

Some even describe Mahjong as philosophical.

“It’s the same as with life,” one player shared.

“You’re dealt certain hands, but the skill part is

what you want to do about it.”

While the game itself dates back to 19thcentury

China, Mahjong’s newest chapter feels

remarkably modern. The game first gained

popularity around Shanghai before spreading

throughout Asia and eventually making its way to

the United States during the 1920s. Businessman

Joseph Babcock helped introduce an American

version of the game, and Mahjong quickly

exploded in popularity among high-society

women. Vintage photographs from the era show

glamorous Mahjong parties at the Waldorf-

Astoria, women playing beside swimming pools

in Washington, and fashionable social gatherings

centered on the game.

Today, celebrity culture is helping fuel

Mahjong’s resurgence once again, and from

London to New York City to Starkville, Mahjong

is suddenly everywhere again. The difference this

time around? Players say Mahjong now blends

nostalgia with intentional connection. In a world

dominated by screens, scrolling, and endless

notifications, Mahjong offers something

refreshingly tangible: the weight of the tiles,

the rhythmic shuffle, the click-clack of ceramic

pieces, and the laughter shared around the table.

“It’s a great social hobby anyone can learn and a

great way to get together with friends, no matter

how old you are,” one player said. Another added

simply, “The point is connection.” Mahjong

requires four players gathered around one table.

There are pauses between turns, conversations

between rounds, and opportunities for friendships

to naturally develop.

That social connection is one reason younger

generations are embracing the game so enthusiastically.

Millennials and Gen Z players across

the country are also trading screens for Mahjong

nights, often gathering around themed

52 • JUNE 2026

tablescapes filled with snacks, drinks, and

conversation. Right here in Starkville, we had the

opportunity to connect with several local women

helping fuel the game’s growing popularity who

were especially helpful in our learning more about

Mahjong and sharing information for this story.

Among them is Lynda McReynolds, a certified

Mahjong instructor whose “Mahj with Lynda”

gatherings have introduced many local players

to the game through lessons, private parties,

community events, and beginner-friendly play

opportunities. Known for her welcoming

teaching style and enthusiasm for Mahjong,

Lynda has helped create spaces where both

experienced players and first timers feel

comfortable around the table.

Another familiar face in Starkville’s Mahjong

circles is Peggy Hemphill, who friends describe

as someone constantly bringing people together

through community gatherings, social groups,

and friendly games. For many local players,

Mahjong has become one more way Peggy

encourages connection, laughter, and fellowship

across generations.

Helping introduce even more players to the

game is Anna Katherine Martin, another

certified instructor who teaches lessons, parties,

and events through her platform, “Mahjong with

AK.” Her colorful tablescapes, social gatherings,

and approachable teaching style have helped

Mahjong especially resonate with younger

professionals and friend groups throughout

Starkville and beyond.

For Chelsi Brasher, who supports play through

“Mahj with Chelsi,” the game became a

meaningful blend of friendship and purpose.

Brasher has helped create opportunities for

women of all ages to gather, learn, and connect

through Mahjong events and open-play nights

that often sell out weeks in advance.

“I decided to start teaching Mahjong because

it brings together two things I love: teaching and

the game itself,” Brasher shared. “But also, because

I think a lot of women in my stage of life need

that reminder “it’s okay to add something to your

plate just because it fills you up. In fact, I think it

makes you better at everything else you’re doing.

I hope Mahj with Chelsi does exactly what my

tagline says: ‘Bring JOY one tile at a time.’”

Historically, the game became especially

important inside immigrant communities,

including Chinese American and Jewish

American social circles. In 1937, a group of Jewish

women in New York City formed the National

Mah Jongg League, standardizing American

rules and scoring. Over the decades, weekly

Mahjong games became woven into the social

fabric of countless neighborhoods and communities.

Perhaps that is exactly what is happening

again now.

In Starkville, Mahjong gatherings are

becoming part of weekly rhythms and routines.

Friends teach beginners. Mothers and daughters

learn together. Tables fill with snacks, strategy,

laughter, and competition. “I love the structure

of the game,” one player shared. “There are tons

of rules, but also tons of flexibility in ways to win.

It’s part strategy and part luck of the draw.”

Another player joked, “It’s the only time I’d

rather have a Joker than a King.”

Players also describe Mahjong as strangely

addictive. “Mahjong is this perfect mix of

strategy, connection, and tactile therapy,” one

enthusiast explained. “It’s a great way to get

together in a social setting and be off your phone.

And once you start playing, it’s so addictive.

Every game ends with someone saying, ‘Should

we play one more?’”

Perhaps that is why Mahjong continues

finding new life in communities across Mississippi.

In a culture built around speed, distraction, and

constant digital noise, Mahjong invites people to

slow down, to focus, to think, to laugh, to gather,

and maybe most importantly, to connect.

From dining rooms to Dudy Noble Field,

Mahjong has officially taken Starkville by storm.

Because when strategy, storytelling, and

community come together around the same

table, you do not just win a game, you build

something enduring.


54 • JUNE 2026

Karley Woods

Beyond the 18th Green

How Starkville Country Club Reimagined Community

For decades, Starkville Country Club has been a staple of the community,

offering everything from rounds of golf to evenings spent dining with family and friends.

But as the club has grown, so has the need for something more.

Now, that shift is most visible just

beyond the clubhouse, where a newly

designed terrace overlooking the 18th

green has become a central gathering

space for members. “The goal was for

people to be interacting, enjoying

themselves and utilizing the space,”

said landscape architect Bill Heimer.

“It’s very rewarding to see

that come to life.”

At Starkville Country Club, that

interaction is no longer left to chance.

It is the result of a multi-year renovation

designed to meet the needs of a growing

membership while reshaping how people

experience the club. For Brent Deweese,

a former board president who helped

lead the project, the need for change

became clear as the club expanded.


“We knew we needed a nicer clubhouse,”

Deweese said. “We needed something

bigger and more functional.” Johnny Fair,

who served eight years on the board and

two years as president, chaired the club’s

long-range planning committee that

helped design the clubhouse plan and

oversee construction. He said the

renovation was shaped by collaboration

from both leadership and members

throughout the process.

“We had so many board members

and members involved in the success

of the new clubhouse,” Fair said. “It was

a fun and successful group effort.”

The renovation process began around

2020, following years of growth that

transformed the club itself. Membership

climbed from around 430 to more than

700 after the addition of a swimming pool

in 2017, creating demand for a larger and

more modern facility.

Rather than tearing the building down

entirely, club leadership chose to build upon

the existing structure while redesigning

the space to better serve members.

56 • JUNE 2026

The project included relocating the

kitchen, expanding dining areas, redesigning

the bar and adding thousands of

square feet to the clubhouse. The renovation

was designed by Wier Boerner Allin

Architecture, with Byrum Construction

serving as the contractor.

“We decided the most efficient way to

go was to use basically what we had and

expand off of that,” Deweese said.

Inside the clubhouse, the renovations

focused heavily on functionality. According

to club manager Scott Buntin, the

updated kitchen and redesigned layout

have significantly improved operations

behind the scenes. “The kitchen renovation,

which is a brand new kitchen in a

different location, is allowing us to prepare

more food versus our old one,” Buntin

said. “We’re able to do a private event

along with our daily operations.”

The redesign also improved how staff

move throughout the building, creating a

smoother experience for both employees

and members.

“We had to walk through people dining

to get to a different part of the building,”

Buntin said. “Now we have an area that

we call the servery that we’re able to pass

through and not disturb the diners.”


But it is the exterior, particularly the

terrace overlooking the 18th green, that

has strengthened the connection between

the clubhouse and the course, giving

members a more visible and inviting

place to gather.

“We wanted to create some sort of

a focal point gathering area,” Heimer

said. “A natural solution was to put fire

pits in.” Three fire pits were strategically

placed outside key areas of the clubhouse,

allowing members to be seated

throughout the terrace to maintain clear

views of the course while still encouraging

conversation and interaction.

The design has changed way members

use the club on a day-to-day basis,

according to Buntin. “The activity has

increased in all areas,” Buntin said.

“It just seems like there’s

a lot more excitement for

people to come out there.”

58 • JUNE 2026

The terrace has quickly become

one of the club’s most popular

gathering spots, especially during

football weekends and evenings

when members gather to socialize

while watching golfers finish their

rounds on the final hole. “Those are

some of our first tables that get

reserved during the seasons,” Buntin

said. “It’s nice to be out there.”

For Deweese, the renovations

were never just about appearances.

They were about creating a better

overall experience for members while

preparing the club for the future.

“The most important thing

is to enhance the experience

for our members.”


King Cotton

Crawfish Boil

APRIL 11 • THE HUB PLAZA

The King Cotton Crawfish Boil is an annual spring event in downtown Starkville

that brings the community together around food, music, and friendly competition.

Local cooking teams prepare crawfish with all the fixings and compete for bragging

rights, while attendees enjoy unlimited tastings and vote for their favorites. Held at

The Hub Plaza, the event also features drinks provided by Clark Beverage Company,

live entertainment from the Jason Miller Band, and a lively festival atmosphere. It

serves as one of the Starkville Main Street Association’s largest fundraisers and a

signature tradition that highlights local culture and community spirit.

60 •• JUNE 2026


62 • JUNE 2026

ADVERTISER SPOTLIGHT

Setting the Scene for Forever

Every love story deserves a beautiful beginning.

On the following pages, discover dreamy inspiration,

refined style, and thoughtful ideas for celebrating

life’s most meaningful moments–from the

engagement to the walk down the aisle and beyond.

From classic romance to contemporary celebrations,

discover where style and love come together–

designed for every kind of love story.


Hannah Reid Marshall

Dodson Farms Wedding

Hannah Reid and Jaxon Marshall got married at the beautiful Dodson Farms on May 9th, 2026, surrounded by their family and friends.

After their Paris engagement, the couple knew they wanted to choose a venue that had southern charm with an intimate feel.

Dodson Farms had just that. The staff at Dodson Farms made the couple feel welcome from the first time they walked through the doors.

Dodson Farms is the perfect blend of modern elegance and timeless southern charm. From heartfelt vows to dancing beneath the stars,

the atmosphere at Dodson Farms creates a warm and welcoming space for family and friends to gather together for a beautiful celebration.

64 • JUNE 2026

PHOTOS Laura Bowman Photography


Deddriona Waller Burns

Blueberry Peace Farm

On March 28, 2026, Deddriona and Roderick Burns

celebrated their union with a beautiful spring wedding at

Blueberry Peace Farm in Magee surrounded by natural beauty

and the warmth of family and friends. The venue’s scenic

landscape, including two peaceful ponds, added to the charm

and created a picture-perfect setting for their special day.

The venue also provided plenty of space for the wedding

party to prepare and relax before the ceremony. The bridal

suite comfortably accommodated the bride, mother of the

bride, and the bridal party as they got dressed and shared

special moments together. At the same time, the groom and

groomsmen had their own space to sit, mingle, and enjoy the

anticipation leading up to the ceremony.

The ceremony took place at the outdoor Blueberry Chapel,

where soft spring colors and fresh greenery created a romantic

atmosphere. With over 200 guests in attendance, the space

comfortably welcomed loved ones who gathered to witness

the couple exchange vows.

After the ceremony, guests moved to the veranda for

cocktail hour. The outdoor patio offered a relaxed and inviting

space to mingle and enjoy the moment. A live saxophonist

filled the air with smooth, soulful music, while a ballerina

provided a graceful and unique touch to the experience,

making the hour both entertaining and memorable.

The celebration continued in the Blueberry Barn for the

reception. Guests enjoyed a buffet-style dinner set in the

spacious foyer, which allowed plenty of room for movement

and conversation. The foyer also featured a beautiful green

wall that served as the perfect backdrop for a fun and stylish

photo booth experience. Decorated in a palette of emerald

green, ivory, and khaki, with shades of pink florals, the space

featured clear and gold accents that added a touch of elegance.

The blend of soft blooms and natural greenery created a light,

garden-inspired feel that complemented the rustic charm of

the barn. The evening was filled with laughter and dancing as

family and friends came together to celebrate the newlyweds.

From start to finish, Deddriona and Roderick’s wedding

was a true celebration of love, joy, and bringing together two

families. Their day at Blueberry Peace Farm will always be

remembered as a special beginning to their new life together.

66 • JUNE 2026

PHOTOS Partee Photography


Milla Davis Ford

Prestige Event Rentals

Milla Davis and Johnny Ford’s love story began in the

summer of 2023 after a mutual friend introduced them while

both living in the Jackson area after graduating from Mississippi

State. Their first meeting was a blind date, but with so much in

common, the conversation flowed easily and the rest is history.

After a one-year engagement, the fun weekend began with

a beautiful luncheon to honor the bridesmaids at the home of

Lynda and Tom McReynolds. Later in the evening, the groom’s

parents hosted a rehearsal dinner at the Starkville Country Club.

Milla wore her mother’s wedding gown to the rehearsal and

dinner.

The following day, the bridesmaids enjoyed a relaxing day

at the bride’s home hosting the teams of makeup by Mckenna

Goddard and Kassidy Gillis, and hair by Laken Chriswell,

owner of Tease salon. After a fun ride in the Mississippi State

University themed shuttle bus, the wedding party arrived at

the venue–Blueberry Peace Farm in Starkville, owned by

Thomas and Benita Brown.

The ceremony began at 6pm, directed by the day-of

wedding coordinator and owner of Blueberry Peace Farm,

Benita Brown. About 300 guests arrived, to witness the

matrimony of The Fords. Officiating the nuptials was Rev.

Scott Cappleman of Crosspoint Baptist Church of Starkville.

The ceremony was draped in white linens with large crystal

chandeliers hanging from the ceiling and exquisite white

flowers by Jill Windham of Laurel, Mississippi. As the guitarist

played and sang, the wedding party entered with the bridesmaids

dressed in pink jacquard strapless dresses and the groomsmen

in dark gray suits from Kinkade’s Fine Clothing of Ridgeland.

With much anticipation, the bride entered in her one of a kind,

all white gown by Allure from The Bridal Path in Madison.

As the bride’s father, Stuart Davis, handed his only daughter

over to the groom, Rev. Scott took over the ceremony. Johnny

placed a custom Cartier white gold ring on Milla’s ring finger

with his initials, JBF, engraved inside.

68 • JUNE 2026

PHOTOS Alden Chapple Photography

Following the ceremony, guests got to enjoy

a true southern reception. As the live wedding

artist, Raegan Hall of Birmingham, painted the

couple, the guests were greeted with an open bar

with signature cocktails.

The groom’s mother and owner of Movie

Star Restaurant in Hattiesburg catered the

reception with great southern food. After dinner,

guests enjoyed cakes by Jackie Bailey of Jaja’s

Cakes of Steens, Mississippi.

Highlighting the evening was the 12 South

Band of Nashville bringing the energy all night.

Katherine Dumas of kddesigns created the blue

and white Ford trucker hats to top off the party,

and McDonald’s french fries were served on a

mobile cart as a late night snack to the guests.

Alden Chapple Photography captured the

couple’s big day, and when it was time to leave,

the bride’s father’s 1985 CJ7 Jeep carried The

Fords away. That same jeep also carried her

parents away 30 years earlier.

The couple enjoyed a week-long honeymoon

in Curaçao, and they now reside in Ridgeland

Milla is a realtor for Haley Properties and Johnny

is a financial analyst for Guaranty Bank.


Sarah Katherine Sykes Hill

Prestige Event Rentals

“Our wedding day was everything we dreamed of and

more, and so much of that is thanks to the most incredible

vendor team—especially Prestige Event Rentals. From

the very beginning, they went far beyond what we ever

expected. My husband, Tyler, had poured so much time

and heart into building meaningful pieces for our day,

including a cross and church pews, and we also had a few

unique items to truly make the day feel like us, like a

bounce house and a floral backdrop. Prestige didn’t just

accommodate those personal touches—they embraced

them wholeheartedly. They graciously allowed us to drop

everything off ahead of time and then carefully set it all up,

taking so much stress off our plates and ensuring every

detail was exactly where it needed to be.

“When it came to the reception, they completely brought

our vision to life in a way that exceeded anything we could

have imagined. My husband’s one big wish was a clear-top

tent filled with lights, and Prestige delivered in the most

magical way—it created an atmosphere that felt warm,

romantic, and straight out of a dream. One of the most

special details of the night was our custom wedding crest,

and they made sure it was beautifully projected onto the

dance floor, adding such a personal and elegant touch that

we’ll never forget. Every detail felt intentional, seamless,

and perfectly executed.

“I truly cannot recommend Prestige Event Rentals

enough—they didn’t just provide rentals, they created an

experience that made our day unforgettable. And I would

be remiss not to mention Mrs. Caroline Bromley, who

was an absolute joy to work with. She was kind, patient,

and incredibly attentive, taking all my ideas (even the crazy

ones) and somehow weaving them together seamlessly.

Because of her and the entire Prestige team, our wedding

day turned out more beautiful, meaningful, and special

than we ever could have imagined.”

70 • JUNE 2026

PHOTOS Canvas Collective Photography


Barbara Norman

Taking Care of Brides in Starkville

What first brought you into working with brides

and weddings here in Starkville?

I started working at Mullins Department

Store in September 1980 doing all of the

monogramming, and when needed, I filled

in at the gift department. And that meant

working with the brides with their registry

and exchanges.

I worked at Mullins over 18 years, including

buying for the gift department and managing it,

to working in the office doing accounts

receivables and accounts payable.

After Mullins closed, Olivia Loftis who

owned Giggleswick was looking for someone to

work with brides. So I worked there 10 years.

My brother in-law was opening Sports

Center and asked if I would “run it” for him.

I worked there for about a year and a half,

while going through breast cancer. The hours

there were so long that I decided to take my

resume’ to Kay Black that owned mak•B &

Company. I started working for her in

August 2010. She retired and sold mak•B in

July 2018. I continued to work there for the

new owners until they closed January 2023.

I called the owner of Whittington Gifts &

Decor to let her know that mak•B was closing.

She was one of my sales reps and I wanted to

let her know in case she needed to put her

product lines in another store in town.

Whittington Gifts & Decor opened April 1,

2023, and here I am, still working, managing

the store, and working with many brides and

customers!

What are some of your favorite memories or

moments that have stuck with you?

The lasting friendships that I have made

when brides register. So many past brides

keep my number and will call or text me.

How have you seen weddings and registries

change over the years in Starkville?

Probably one of the biggest changes is

the number of brides that register online.

I understand the younger generation likes to

shop online, but they need to understand that

many of their gifts come from their parent’s

friends. People like to come in, look at what

the bride has registered, and they like to touch

it. It’s okay to have an online registry, but make

sure that you register locally also.

Have you stayed in touch with any brides or

seen generations of families come back to you?

I have stayed in touch with many former

brides. It humbles me when they stop at the

store to see if I am working to see me or to

show me their growing family!

What is it about working with brides and

weddings that you’ve always loved?

I love showing brides patterns. When a

bride comes in to register I ask if they have

picked any patterns yet. If they haven’t, I

suggest they pick out about three pattens they

like. After they’ve chosen, I pull them away

from the wall of patterns and put them on a

table. I have had brides to completely change

their mind after placing the dinnerware on a

table because it looks totally different.

I also don’t mind the exchanges. I like the

fact that I can suggest to a bride what she

might need in the future. I tell them their

family and space will grow. Don’t think about

this tiny space, think about your future!

When you look back on your years working

with brides, what makes you the proudest?

It makes me happy just knowing I can

suggest to the brides “things” they may need

for their future. It makes me proud when the

brides come back years later and say, “I still

love my pattern that you helped me register.”

I had a bride years ago from out of town that

had gone to Jackson to pick her patterns.

She didn’t just love what she’d picked. She

was in Starkville for a football game, came

in the store, and we played with different

patterns. I took the time with her and worked

with her until she found the perfect patterns.

She told her mom, “This is the way it was

supposed to be.”

If you could give one piece of advice to today’s

brides, what would it be?

Don’t not register for an item because of

the price, register for it anyway. You never

know what someone’s price will be, and if it’s

in their price range, and they want to gift that

to you, then they will.

If you ever think you will want fine china

one day, then register for it! That’s something

that you will probably never buy for yourself.

Have all kinds of price ranges on your registry.

What do you hope people remember about

your role in their wedding journey?

The main thing that I hope brides and their

mamas remember that it was easy and fun!

We want it to be an experience they will

always remember.

Are there any trends or traditions from “back

then” that you wish more brides still embraced?

Register for fine china.

72 • JUNE 2026

PHOTOS Canvas Collective Photography


74 • JUNE 2026


Bonnie Coblentz

Charles “LaLa” Evans

chalked many firsts

for Starkville.

Charles “LaLa” Evans loves dancing, raised two children

as a devoted husband, broke barriers as Starkville’s first

black letter carrier, worked for years as a shoe-shine

boy, and guided Troop 100 as Scoutmaster for 25 years.

But that tells only part of the story of his life.

Evans, 93, has lived through close to half of the

history of Starkville, established in 1831. As a black

man, his history looks different than what life in

Starkville looks like today.

Born in St. Louis, he moved to Starkville

when he was three or four, after his mother died.

He and his four siblings were “distributed among

the family,” as Evans described, ending up in the

Needmore home of his uncle, George Evans, who

LaLa calls dad.

“It was a community,” LaLa said of Needmore.

“Everybody knew everybody, and everybody took

care of everybody.”

George Evans was a musician who travelled

and performed in one of the big tent shows that

toured the country in those days. Back in

Starkville, George Evans opened the George

Evans Shoe Shine Parlor on Lampkin Street,

where LaLa began working when he was eight.

“My daddy was a pioneer. We had to segregate

our own business. Blacks were served in the back,

whites up front,” LaLa said. “At the time it was

accepted. If we had tried to say everybody sit

here up front, we wouldn’t have had any business.

We just rolled with it.”

School for LaLa was at the Oktibbeha County

Training School, the segregated 12-grade school

for black children that became Henderson High .

“When we got new books, they were four years

old from the white high school,” he said. Choosing

not to take offense, he said, “We learned. They

couldn’t stop us.”

LaLa worked seven days a week at the shine

parlor while in school, and graduated in 1951.

He married Louise on August 26, 1951, right out

of high school, and they carried on a love affair

for 61 years, dancing every chance they could.

Louise worked at Garran and retired from

Weavex. Their two sons are Waynmond Lamar

Evans of Starkville, and Shaun Vertich’ Evans

of Atlanta.

The Korean War drafted LaLa into the Army

in 1953, and he served two years of active duty

and 37 years in the reserves, retiring ultimately as

a sergeant E7. He also completed two years at

Mary Holmes Junior College studying business.

LaLa picked up his shoe-shine job upon his

return from the Army, but in the late 1950s,

“I got my post office break,” he said. LaLa was

hired to work two hours a day as janitor, the

only job a black person could have at that time

with the post office.

Four years later when times had changed a

bit, he was allowed to work four hours a day as

letter carrier, the first black person in Starkville

to hold that position. He soon became a full-time

letter carrier, covering the downtown Starkville

route.

Delivering the mail was a joy to LaLa. “They

were so happy to see me,” he said of his clients.

“Everybody knew me. I was treated with the

greatest of respect by black and white. “Starkville

was an integrative community. Starkville seemed

to accept stuff before any of the surrounding

areas, probably because it was a university town,”

he said.

“We lived in a period I called, ‘these changing

times.’ We were part of the change,” Evans said,

adding that there were some serious moments,

some hard times, and harsh words.

Through it all, LaLa was kind, even to

those who were not kind. “I’ve been blessed

by the best,” he concluded.

76 • JUNE 2026


78 • JUNE 2026


80 • JUNE 2026

ADVERTISER SPOTLIGHT

When it comes to hosting a flawless event

in Mississippi’s premier college town, the Hilton

Garden Inn Starkville stands out as a premier

destination for corporate meetings, academic

conferences, and milestone social celebrations.

Call 662.615.9664 today for

a tour or to book your event.

Situated conveniently at 975 Highway 12 East—just minutes away from

the campus of Mississippi State—this property blends functional design

with warm, signature hospitality. Whether you are coordinating an

intensive multi-day training seminar, a regional corporate retreat, or an

elegant wedding reception, the venue offers a seamless mix of adaptable

spaces, top-tier technical amenities, and a dedicated team committed to

bringing your vision to life.

The property boasts over 5,500 square feet of total event space

distributed across six versatile meeting rooms. This layout allows for

dynamic event structuring, offering an effortless transition from

large-scale plenary sessions to smaller, intimate breakout discussions.

The crown jewel of the venue is the

Magnolia Room. Spanning nearly 2,500 square

feet, this grand space features 12-foot ceilings

(in its modular segments) and can comfortably

accommodate up to 210 guests for a theaterstyle

presentation or 180 for a formal, seated

banquet. For smaller assemblies, the room

features integrated soundproof air walls that

can divide the area into smaller configurations

(Magnolia A, B, and C), giving planners the

flexibility to scale down without sacrificing style.

For formal, high-stakes executive sessions, the

Executive Boardroom provides an upscale,

private environment equipped with high-speed

Wi-Fi and ergonomic seating for twelve.

What truly elevates an event from standard

to extraordinary is the human element behind

the logistics. At the Hilton Garden Inn Starkville,

that excellence is driven by Sales Director Teresa Nowell and Sales

Coordinator Karen Payton. Known for their meticulous attention to detail

and deep commitment to the Starkville community, the sales team serves

as an invaluable partner for event hosts. From the initial site walkthrough

to the final breakdown, they ensure that every logistical detail aligns with

the client’s strategic objectives.

Under Teresa’s leadership, the hotel offers fully customizable,

comprehensive event planning packages. Hosts can rely on an array

of standard amenities, including state-of-the-art audiovisual setups,

customizable on-site catering menus from the hotel’s food and beverage

department, and an on-site full bar and lounge perfect for post-event

networking mixers.

For out-of-town attendees, the team can effortlessly coordinate block

room bookings across the hotel’s 105 modern guest rooms and suites,

providing guests with a comfortable retreat that features an indoor pool,

fitness center, and complimentary Wi-Fi. With versatile square footage

and Teresa and Karen’s expert guidance, the Hilton Garden Inn Starkville

remains a top choice for memorable and productive events.


82 • JUNE 2026


Miss Golden

Triangle’s Teen

Audrie Anne

Wells

Starkville High School

84 • JUNE 2026

What first inspired you to compete in Miss Teen Mississippi?

I started doing pageants at a very young age. When I started in Miss

Mississippi Teen, I wanted to grow in confidence and use my voice to serve

others. This organization has given me the opportunity to turn my passion

into purpose. Pageants have shaped me into a stronger, more driven young

woman.

What does representing your community mean to you personally?

Representing my community is everything I’ve dreamed of. My community

has supported me and helped me get to the point I am now. It’s all about

giving back to the people who have poured into me and making sure they

feel seen, heard, and valued.

What’s one thing people would be surprised to learn about you?

I have met Miss America 2026, Cassie Donegan!

What song always puts you in a confident mood before competition?

“Goodbye Yestarday”—a reminder that every day is a new day, so make it a

good day!

How are you preparing for the Miss Teen Mississippi pageant in June?

My preparation is very intentional. I’m preparing through mock interviews,

talent practice, fitness training, and expanding my community

service efforts. I want to be confident, ready, and prepared for June so

I can represent Mississippi with excellence!

What was your favorite part of the competition?

I am most excited to compete in fitness! As someone who has grown up

doing gymnastics, I have always made it a top priority to stay healthy and

fit. Gymnastics taught me discipline, strength, and the importance of being

heart-healthy, and I’m excited to compete in a phase that highlights those

three characteristics.

How did you prepare mentally and physically for the event?

I prepared physically by staying healthy and fit and focusing on strength

and endurance. Mentally, I reminded myself to enjoy every moment and

always believe in myself.

Tell us about your community service initiative/social impact

platform.

My community service initiative is called Curvy and Confident. I was

diagnosed with scoliosis during a time when fitting in felt like a necessity—

middle school. I was told I would have to wear a bulky brace 23 hours

every day. Hearing this news made me doubt myself and my purpose, but

I used it as an opportunity to help other young girls feel confident in their

braces. I am actively working on partnering with Mississippi State

University Fashion Design to create a clothing line suitable for back braces

so no young girl feels less valued or alone because of her curve.

Why is this issue meaningful to you, and how do you hope to use

your platform and voice moving forward?

Curvy and Confident is meaningful to me because it was a personal

experience. Scoliosis affects so many young girls, yet it’s often overlooked

or misunderstood. I’ve seen how it not only impacts physical health but

also confidence and self-image. I want girls to know that a curve in their

spine does not define their strength, beauty, or potential.

How do you balance academics, service, and pageant responsibilities?

I make sure to prioritize the right things and manage my time wisely.

Discipline from gymnastics has helped me handle multiple responsibilities

while still giving my best in each area.

What are you looking forward to most about the pageant?

Sisterhood! With having just ended Miss Mississippi orientation and

meeting all of my sister queens, it has made me even more excited for June.

They are truly the greatest group of girls, and I’m so blessed to call them

my friends!

Will this be your first time competing?

This year is my first time competing in the Miss Mississippi Teen

competition, and I could not be more excited!


Miss Starkville’s Teen

Cathryn

Rider


86 • JUNE 2026


Seeing how much positive impact the titleholders had on their communities

and the people around them. I realized that pageants aren’t just about the

crown; they’re about using your voice, your confidence, and your passions

to make a difference. I wanted the opportunity to grow as a leader, challenge

myself, and inspire others while giving back in meaningful ways. Knowing

I could combine personal growth with service is what made me want to

take that first step and compete.


By staying organized and remembering why I am involved in each one.

Academics help me grow intellectually, service keeps me focused on giving

back, and pageantry helps me develop confidence and leadership skills.

I plan ahead, manage my time carefully, and focus on doing my best in

the moment rather than trying to be perfect. These three things help

me become a stronger, more well-rounded person.


Representing my community means being a voice for the people and

causes I care about and showing pride in where I come from. It’s about

more than just being seen—it’s about using my platform to give back,

inspire others, and make a positive impact. Personally, it reminds me to

lead by example, stay grounded, and show that even as a teen, I can make

a difference in the lives of those around me.


My favorite part is definitely the evening gown because it’s my favorite

moment to shine on stage and show confidence, poise, and elegance.

I love how it allows me to express my personality and my choice of style

while carrying myself with grace. It’s more than just the dress; it’s about

the confidence behind it—walking the stage with pride and showing the

judges and audience who I am as a young woman.


I am preparing for this pageant both mentally and physically by focusing

on balance and growth. Mentally, I’ve been practicing interview skills,

setting goals, and reminding myself to stay confident and positive, no

matter the challenge. Physically, I have committed to a healthy routine

that keeps me energized and focused, while also practicing stage presence

and performance skills. For me, preparation isn’t just about looking or

performing well—it’s about becoming the best version of myself so I can

shine on stage and represent my community with confidence and purpose.

Tell us about your community service initiative/social impact platform.

My community service initiative, Safe Plate, is focused on creating celiac-safe

communities to educate others about celiac disease and the importance of

offering safe, gluten-free options and preventing cross-contamination.



This issue is meaningful to me because I have grown up with a gluten

intolerance. There have been many times when I have felt left out at school

parties or social gatherings because I was unable to eat what was served.

My platform is about increasing awareness, promoting inclusion, and

making sure all individuals with celiac disease and gluten intolerance

feel safe and supported wherever they eat.

What song always puts you in a confident mood before competition?

The song that always puts me in a confident mood is “Praise” by Elevation

Worship. It gets me focused, positive, and excited to perform at my best.


That even though I love being on stage and performing, I can also be quiet

and reflective offstage. I enjoy quiet time with my family and my dog,

Bailey. I think it surprises people because they expect someone who

competes in pageants to always be outgoing, but I’ve learned that both

confidence and thoughtfulness can go hand in hand.


By focusing on improving myself in all areas of my life. I’ve been practicing

interview skills, staying involved in community service, and working on my

confidence and communication skills. Preparation isn’t just about the

competition—it’s about growing into someone who can truly represent

and serve others well.

What are you looking forward to most about the Miss Teen Mississippi

pageant?

The opportunity to grow and challenge myself while connecting with

so many inspiring young women from across the state. I’m excited to

showcase my talents and personality, but even more, I’m excited for the

friendships, experiences, and lessons I’ll gain along the way.


Yes, this is my first time competing at this level, and I’m really excited

for the opportunity. While it’s a new experience, I’ve been preparing

and learning as much as I can so I can give my best on stage.


Miss Capital City’s Teen

Crosby

Taylor


88 • JUNE 2026


I was a Magnolia Belle when I was younger, and I fell in love with the

organization.

What did representing your community mean to you personally?

It was an honor to be selected as the first Miss Starkville. I took the role

and preparation seriously with the hope of introducing the organization to

many more Starkville girls. I wanted to represent my community well and

make an impact not just in the short term, but in the long term.


Interview. It was where I saw the most improvement from the beginning.

My comfort level, communication skills, and ability to answer questions all

increased. This portion has been the most beneficial for my future as I prepare

for college.


I had many Zoom calls with my directors and pageant coaches for mental

preparation. I also stayed connected with the sisters I met at orientation,

leaning on them and focusing on having fun rather than just the competition.

Physically, I spent many hours at Orangetheory, Taylor Made

CrossFit, and Pure Barre. Not only was I pageant-prepping in the gym,

but I was also working toward my future health in all aspects of life.


This fall I will be attending Mississippi State University’s Bagley College of

Engineering, majoring in mechanical engineering.

What song always puts you in a confident mood before a competition?

A lot of times I listen to my talent song and practice my dance.

What special things did you do to prepare for the Miss Teen Mississippi

pageant in June 2025?

I participated in about three Zoom calls each week, constantly asking

questions and learning. I also spent most of my time in the dance studio

practicing my solo and working on my walking.

What is your most special memory from participating in the Miss

Mississippi Teen event last year?

Getting to look out into the audience and seeing my special friends who

came all the way from Starkville to watch and support me.


Beds 4 Kids is a community organization focused on providing beds to

children who do not have one of their own.

Why is this issue meaningful to you, and how do you hope to use your

platform and voice moving forward?

Fifty thousand kids in Mississippi do not have a bed to call their own.

During my first bed placement, I truly fell in love with the process, the

families, and the impact it makes on someone’s life. From the moment I

stepped into that first home, I knew I wanted to continue doing this work

and using my platform to bring awareness and help more children.


Growing up, I was a competitive dancer and cheerleader while also being a

student. Because of that, I learned strong time-management skills and

how to prioritize my responsibilities.


Miss Red Hill’s Teen

Lena Grace

Smith

Winston Academy

90 • JUNE 2026


Being a part of this organization has always been something I’ve dreamed

about, but I really fell in love with the organization when I was part of the

Magnolia Belle program in 2019 and 2021.


Representing a place that I have so much love for is everything!

I’m not only representing the place but the people, as well.


The phase I am most excited for is the interview! It will allow the judges to

see a side of me that they will not be able to see on stage during competition.

What song always puts you in a confident mood before a competition?

Anything from the Wicked soundtrack!


Choosing my wardrobe pieces, staying active, and doing tons of prep work!

What are you looking forward to most about the pageant?

Winning the experience!


This will be my first time competing for the title of Miss Mississippi’s Teen.


I enjoy moving my body. I spend countless hours doing mock interviews

and prep work, staying up to date about what is happening in the world

around us, but also giving myself grace and remembering that progress

doesn’t happen overnight, that it’s a process. But there is promise in the

process.


My community service initiative is called Maggie’s Mission, and it’s aimed

toward spreading awareness and advocating for children with special needs.



From a very young age, I’ve always fostered a special place in my heart for

inclusion. I plan to use my year of service as Miss Red Hills Teen to continue

advocating for them in communities, in schools, and also across Mississippi.


By staying grounded, utilizing the resources of the organization, and always

reminding myself that I am only a 15-year-old girl and it’s okay to ask for

help.


Even though I am from the Deep South, I do not like sweet tea.


SALUTE

to First Responders

What made you decide to work as a first responder?

Looking back, the heart of a public servant was always there. My journey to

becoming a first responder/firefighter actually began in the kitchen of my

grandparents’ restaurant, where I learned, early on, the value of hard work

and the fulfillment that comes from serving your community. Transitioning

into emergency services felt like a seamless transition of those same values

just on a much larger scale. It was a natural extension of that desire to help

people, and once I found the fire service, I knew I was exactly where I was

meant to be.

How long have you served in the role of fire services coordinator

for Oktibbeha County?

I’m entering my sixth year, but my career spans over two decades.

What journey in your professional career led you to here?

My journey began at the Philadelphia Fire Department back in 2006. Along

the way, I earned my master’s in occupational safety and health, which led

me to a role as the program coordinator for Fire Protection and Emergency

Management Technology degree program at Meridian Community College.

Life eventually brought me back to Starkville when my wife opened Warner

Family Dentistry & Med Spa. Since we are both MSU alumni and our

families are just 30 minutes away in Louisville, making Starkville our home

was always the dream. I transferred to the Starkville Fire Department where

John Montgomery, a colleague and then the county supervisor, encouraged

me to apply for the fire coordinator position. I stepped into the role in

January 2020, right at the onset of the pandemic. It was a “trial by fire”

literally and figuratively. However, seeing our volunteers rise to the occasion

during such a high-pressure era confirmed that I was exactly where I was

supposed to be.

Fire Services Coordinator

Patrick

WARNER

OKTIBBEHA COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENT


My wife, Lindsey, and I both grew up in Louisville, and we’re proud MSU

alumni. Shortly after college, we married and started our family, which now

includes our two daughters, Brynn (13) and Nora Kate (10). They attend

Starkville Academy and between sports and school events, there’s never a

dull moment in the Warner household.

What is the toughest thing you have experienced in your job?

Without a doubt, the toughest part is responding to accidents or emergencies

involving children. There is a specific kind of weight to those calls because of

their innocence; they are often completely vulnerable and cannot fend for

themselves. As firefighters, we witness a tremendous amount of trauma

throughout our careers, and those calls in particular can stay with you long

after the shift is over. Because of that, I’ve made it a priority to focus on the

mental health of our firefighters. It’s a side of the job people don’t always see,

but it’s the reason we’ve worked hard to foster an environment where it’s

okay to talk about what we witness. We’ve really leaned into the ‘brotherhood’

of the fire service, using peer support to check in on one another so no

one has to carry that trauma alone. Taking care of our mental health is what

allows us to stay as healthy mentally as we are physically, ensuring we can

keep showing up for the citizens of Oktibbeha County every single day.

92 • JUNE 2026

Share some things you enjoy doing in your spare time.

My world revolves around my family. It feels like every weekend we’re

on the road, traveling for the girls sporting events. I love being there to

support and watch them. When we aren’t traveling, we really enjoy

being part of the Starkville community, usually cheering on the

Bulldogs or just enjoying some downtime together at home.

What are three things on your bucket list?

Retirement would be number one. Having the freedom to set my own

schedule and enjoy life at a different pace. Second, I’d love to visit

Colorado in the spring. I’ve been there to ski a few times, but I always

hear people rave about the hiking and kayaking once the snow melts.

And I’ve always wanted to see the northern lights. Seeing that in person

would be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Who is someone you admire and why?

I have always deeply admired my father. He was truly one of the

hardest-working men I’ve ever known. He passed away recently, and

since then, I have been overwhelmed by the number of people who

have approached me just to share a story about him. Usually, they’ll end

by saying, ‘They just don’t make men like that anymore.’ He set the

standard for what it means to be a person of integrity. He taught me

that your word is your bond, to always be truthful, and that if a job is

worth doing, it’s worth doing right. These are lessons I try to carry with

me every day, both in my personal life and as I lead our fire departments.

His passing has only reinforced how much of an impact one

person can have on their community, and I strive to honor his legacy

by serving Oktibbeha County with that same level of grit and heart.

What advice would you give to a young person?

My best advice is to choose a career you truly enjoy. You spend a

significant portion of your life at work, so it should be something that

brings you fulfillment. Life flies by, and if you don’t enjoy the journey,

you’ll miss what matters most. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes, that’s

often where the best lessons are found. Most importantly, don’t worry

about what others say or think about you. You can’t please everyone,

and at the end of the day, the only thing that matters is that you did the

right thing for the right reasons.

What is your favorite thing about Starkville and

Oktibbeha County?

It’s the perfect ‘in-between’ size. It’s not a big city, but it’s certainly not

a small town either. You really get the best of both worlds, especially

with Mississippi State right here. There is always an event to attend

or something exciting going on, yet it still maintains that close-knit,

hometown feel. At the same time, with a short drive out into Oktibbeha

County, you can truly get out and enjoy ‘the land.’ It’s rare to find a place

that offers both a high-energy atmosphere and a quiet, rural escape in

your back yard.


TOP 20 UNDER 40

JESSICA DOTSON

Congratulations on being named one of

Starkville’s “Top 20 Under 40”!

Your dedication to your family, your profession

and this community is truly admirable.

Keep shining bright like the star that you are!

Jessica Dotson

Coldwell Banker S.R.E. Realtors

662.792.9131 (c)

662.323.8700 (o)

APPLY AUGUST 1

TAKE THE FIRST STEP TOWARD

BECOMING A BULLDOG.

APPLICATION OPENS

AUGUST 1 AT 8 P.M.

Your journey begins in Starkville, named the

Best Small Town in the South by USA Today.

Join a community where big dreams thrive

in a place that feels like home.

APPLY.MSSTATE.EDU

Mississippi State University is an

equal opportunity institution.

94 • JUNE 2026

STARKVILLE ACADEMY VOLUNTEERS

champions

State

Congratulations,

Volunteers!

Top: 2026 MAIS AAAA DIII Baseball

State Champions

Left: Sil Santucci, MAIS Track and Field

State Champion for Boys’ High Jump and

Coach Kory Stephens, SA Head Track

and Field Coach

Right: Elizabeth Fair, Hallie Fuller, Lane

Huerkamp, and Emily Paige Fuller, MAIS

Track and Field State Champions for

Girls’ 4x200 Relay


Starkville Academy

WE HAVE HAD A WONDERFUL SPRING

AT STARKVILLE ACADEMY!

Between State Championship titles, athletic signings, field trips, the spring

musical, and of course, graduation, we have stayed busy! In March we crowned

our 2026 Miss Volition, Jayden Claire Wilkerson, as well as our four Miss Volition

Beauties, Maddie Dill, Elizabeth Fair, Kate Rush, and Olivia Caroline Lee. In April

and May, we celebrated two of our seniors signing to continue their athletic and

academic careers after high school! Belicia Sotomeneses is continuing her soccer

career at Trinity College of Jacksonville and DJ Spencer is continuing his basketball

career at Southeastern Baptist College. This spring brought about so many fun

field trips including our 6th graders taking a trip to Washington D.C., 2nd grade

visiting the Tupelo Buffalo Park, 8th grade taking on the Majestic Caverns, and

our Spanish II students enjoying authentic Hispanic food at Las Aguilar in Starkville!

For our spring musical, our students took us on a trip to Arabia to enjoy their

production of Aladdin Junior. It was a fun night filled with laughs, great music,

and entertaining young actors. This spring, our Volunteer Band also attended

the MAIS Concert Band Festival where they received All-Superior ratings for their

Concert Band Performance and Sight-Reading evaluations.

In April we enjoyed our annual Volunteer Week, and we also named our 2026

Volunteer of the Year, Becky Watts. Volunteer week is a time for all SA students

(Pre-K through 12th grade) to lend a helping hand and volunteer in our community!

Students help pick up trash around town, create arts and crafts for nursing home

residents, build beds for kids, partner with DAR for a Veterans project, serve at

Baptist Hospital by creating activity packets for guests, and a variety of other

projects to help our community and city in any way possible.

In the world of athletics, we have had a very successful spring! This season,

our golf team won the 4A North State title! Three Volunteers were named as MAIS

All- Stars for both girls soccer and baseball. Congratulations to our MAIS All-Stars:

Betsy Gray Barrett, Brody Burkley, and Blake Little! Additionally, we had three

student athletes named as MAIS Futures: Brantley Berkery, Elizabeth Fair, and

Lawson Mullins.

We also had a very successful track season! In addition to an overall 4th place

state finish for our varsity girls track team, we had several runners and teams

finish in 1st-3rd places at state! Our girls 4x100 relay team (Elizabeth Fair, Emily

Paige Fuller, Hallie Fuller, and Lane Huerkamp) and 4x400 relay team (Alex

Cougle, Emily Paige Fuller, Hallie Fuller, and Malli Brynn McWhorter) finished

3rd in the state while also setting a new school record! Lane Huerkamp finished

2nd overall in the state for pole vaulting. Lastly for track, our girls 4x200 relay

team (Elizabeth Fair, Emily Paige Fuller, Hallie Fuller, and Lane Huerkamp) and

Sil Stanucci (for the 2nd year in a row)-boys high jump- brought home the 1st

place finish and state titles!

Not only did our track team bring home state titles, but our baseball team won

the State Championship baseball series at home to clinch the 4A D3 State Title!

To wrap up the year, we are so incredibly thankful and blessed to be able to

celebrate and congratulate the Class of 2026 on graduating! Throughout May, we

got to celebrate our seniors with a senior walk through, a time to wear their future

school colors, Baccalaureate, senior camp out, senior awards day, and of course

graduation! Mary Holland Nicholas and Kate Rush were named Valedictorian and

Salutatorian, respectively, for the Class of 2026. We love our Vols and are so

excited to cheer them on in their future accomplishments.

To learn more about SA and the Volunteer Family on our website at

www.starkvilleacademy.org!

96 • JUNE 2026

Starkville

Christian School

This spring, the Lord has blessed us with many areas

of growth and success. We have celebrated championships,

started new clubs, and recognized personal

growth in new ways.

Girls and Boys regular season (Tri-state Conference) champions,

and tournament champions

First place in biochemical studies

at the State Science Fair.

Inaugural Robotics Club in-house competition

Bennett Hawn Memorial Tournament champs & Tri-State Christian Conference Baseball champs

The archery team competed in the

first AIMS Bullseye state competition

1ST ANNUAL CORE VALUE AWARDS

Biblical Worldview, Worship, Discipline, Stewardship, Biblical Unity, Sacrificial Service


Happy

Semiquincentennial,

Y’all!

Join us for a celebration that’s as big and wonderful

as the word “Semiquincentennial,” itself. Mississippi’s

commemoration of our nation’s 250th birthday promises

a year filled with events, exhibits, programs, and more

celebrating our state’s contributions to America’s story

through culture, storytelling, the arts, and our shared

history. Get plugged in at America250.ms.

Elvis Presley Homecoming Statue, Tupelo

Baptist OneCare ® MyChart

Your health care shouldn’t stop when you leave the doctor’s

office. That’s why Baptist Memorial Health Care is

bringing Baptist OneCare® MyChart to our patients

in Starkville and Oktibbeha County. MyChart

gives you easy, safe and secure access to your

medical information—and a simpler way for your

doctors and health care providers to work together

seamlessly to give the care you need. And it’s free!

One network.

One record.

One less worry.

Primary care that stays connected.

The free Baptist OneCare app puts you in control with tools

that make managing your health care easier than ever:

• Schedule and manage doctor appointments

• Request prescription refills

• Access your medical history and test results

• Message your doctor’s office securely

• Pay bills and manage payments

• Pre-register and check in before your visit

Get connected today.

Scan the QR code or visit mychart.baptistonecare.org,

the App Store® or Google Play to download the

Baptist OneCare app, then set up your free

MyChart account.

Baptist OneCare App

©All rights reserved. BMHCC. 2026.

©2026 Epic Systems Corporation. Used with permission.

Starkville

and Baptist

Are Now

Connected

by Care.

Starkville626web

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