The auditorium at the Skipworth Performing Arts Center is now named in honor of Tex and Carolyn Ritter.
It was announced during the Mississippi Lions All-State Band concert held Saturday at the Skipworth: “We would not be seated here if it were not for the generosity of Carolyn and Tex Ritter.”
A plaque has been hung on the rear wall in the center.
Tex and Carolyn Ritter gave the initiating gift for major renovations at the Skipworth Performing Arts Center.
“We owe the Ritters a debt of gratitude,” the plaque states. Carolyn Ritter was in attendance.
It was also announced that the Skipworth’s new lobby will be named for Charles “Mickey” Grove, who served as director of the Big Red Band for 19 years.
A banner of Grove will go up on one of the Skipworth’s panels. Grove was also in attendance.
A crowd came out to watch the Mississippi Lions All-State Band give a great performance at the Skipworth.
Johnny Doude, a former Ethel band director, directed the band in performing the national anthem.
The award-winning band, which is in it 75th year performing, featured two local students – Katy Jo Newman of Ethel and Grayson Blaylock of Kosciusko. Blaylock is the band’s first male dancer.
The Mississippi Lions All-State Band is directed and managed by Jeff Cannon. Mickey Mangum, a former Kosciusko band director, serves as the assistant director and manager.
