United Way of North Central Mississippi will present its annual Citywide Tailgate Friday, Nov. 2 in Starkville. This friendly competition has participants vying for the title of Best Citywide Tailgater. Proceeds from fundraisers like the tailgate support 15 agencies in the four-county area served by UWNCM. The organization’s philosophy is “Stronger Neighbors Make a Strong Community.”
“Tailgating at Its Finest” is the theme of this year’s event. Any business, school, university or civic group can register to participate. Applications can be picked up and turned in at the United Way office at 300 University Drive, or on the third floor of Regions Bank in Starkville, or by [email protected]. Four tailgate zones will be designated in the downtown Starkville area between City Hall and Bancorp South on Main Street/University Drive and adjoining streets; and between LPL Financial to BankFirst on Lampkin Street. Zone 5 is Hospital Road, upper Russell Street and the Academy Road/Louisville Street area.
Participants don’t have to be a business directly in the tailgate zones; partnering with a business located in one of the areas is encouraged.
Judging Nov. 2 will be between 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Each area will be judged on use of theme, best-tasting tailgate food and best presentation. Awards will be given to the Best in Zone (all five zones), Best New Tailgater and Best Citywide Tailgater. Ambassadors from the Greater Starkville Development Partnership will serve as judges.
“Come join us for the best lunch party ever on Nov. 2,” said UWNCM board member and Tailgate committee member Lizz Graves.
The organization’s executive director, Candy Crecink, added “This is definitely ‘tailgatin’ at its finest’ — good food, good times, good friends while helping to make all your neighbors have a better day — this is definitely the Southern way of life.”
Wristbands, retail discounts
Wristbands for Citywide Tailgate are $5, available at the event or in advance at the University Drive branch of Bancorp South, OCH Medical Center, ProGraphics, Regions Bank, What’s for Dinner and BankFirst.
Participating retailers will offer a 15 percent discount on purchases for shoppers wearing wristbands Nov. 2. To date, those retailers include Merle-Norman Bella Luna, JCG Apparel, Maroon & Co., Sports Center, Aspen Bay, Something Southern Design and Furniture Co., Klara Haloho, Doodlebugs, Book Mart & Cafe and George-Mary’s.
Citywide Tailgate sponsors include the Greater Starkville Development Partnership; James “Cubby” Harris Painting Co.; BankFirst Financial Services; Watkins Ward & Stafford, PLLC; Roberson Law Firm; Town and Gown; and Starkville Daily News. Sponsorships are still available.
For more information, email [email protected] or call 662-323-3830.
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