Jackson Free Press stories: Cover Storieshttps://jacksonfreepress.com/news/covers/Jackson Free Press stories: Cover Storiesen-usWed, 01 Sep 2021 11:50:00 -0500Lost in a Broken System: Why Detainees Spend Years in Hinds Jails Without Trialhttps://jacksonfreepress.com/news/2021/sep/01/lost-broken-system-why-detainees-spend-years-hinds/

The last attorney who worked with Justin Mosley, 21, before he was found hanging in his Hinds County Detention Center cell in Raymond was Malcolm O. Harrison. Hinds County Circuit Judge Eleanor Faye Peterson appointed Harrison as Mosley’s defense attorney on Feb. 9, 2021, after the public defender withdrew, citing conflict of interest. That attorney, Michael Henry, said that a witness in the two-count alleged murder charge against Mosley was once his client.

When Mosley died in detention on Sunday, April 18, 2021, one month before his 22nd birthday on May 18, he had been in custody for 16 months. Harrison told the Jackson Free Press that Mosley did not indicate suicidal tendencies the various times he spoke with him. “I met with him three or four times during the time period that I represented him,” Harrison said in an Aug. 20 phone interview.

“Between my time with him and his unfortunate demise, I never saw—I’m not a medical doctor—but I never saw signs of hopelessness. I never saw signs of, you know, of suicide. And I didn’t see that. I was as surprised as anybody (by his death),” Harrison added.

“(His mother, Chalonda Mosley) was very involved in calling my office, and she had unique insight obviously into Justin Mosley. She told me on several occasions what his medical diagnosis was, what his issues were and how best to deal with it. Again, I just never saw any of that.”

Harrison declined to share what the reported medical diagnosis was.

The attorney provided an email address and a phone number for Chalonda Mosley, but she has not responded to emails or phone calls.

Mosley’s indictment for murder in July 2020 came after he had already spent more than six months in jail. By the time he died in April, the accused had spent 16 months in incarceration, and his trial had not even begun. Peterson had set it for Sept. 13, 2021, after appointing Harrison.

But the 16-month stay would not be the first time Mosley would spend extended time in jail without a trial. On May 22, 2019, court documents signed by Hinds County Circuit Court Senior Judge Tomie Green showed that Mosley, at that time, had been held for six months without trial. The charge was for assaulting Hinds County Deputy Sheriff Johnny Ransome at a basketball game at Raymond High School in November 2018. The court-appointed defense attorney filed a motion to dismiss the charges for due-process violation on April 11, 2019, because of the lack of trial since Mosley’s Nov. 16, 2018, arrest at age 19. Green reduced his bond to $5,000, and officials released him from jail on May 23, 2019.

The Mississippi constitution says trials should occur within 270 days of post-indictment arraignment. Uslegal.com said that the 270-day rule grants an accused person a statutory right to a speedy trial.

The indictment for assaulting an officer came a year after the alleged act, on Dec. 12, 2019, with Judge Peterson issuing an order for Mosley’s arrest six days later on Dec. 18, 2019. Court documents show that officials reduced the charge against Mosley to a misdemeanor in September 2020, sentenced him to six months in prison and released him on time served. But he remained in jail for the murders he allegedly committed on Jan. 26, 2020, after his arrest three days later. He allegedly killed Djuana Robinson and Michael Lawson at an apartment complex at 1101 Highway 467 in Edwards, Miss.

Court documents revealed Mosley’s alleged additional offenses in jail. On Oct. 9, 2020, in the Hinds County Detention Center in Raymond, Mosley allegedly “snatched Deputy Martravious Elkins’ less-lethal shotgun inside A Pod Unit-(1) in the facility.” On Jan 10, 2021, he allegedly “kicked the cell dirt windows of C pod unit 4 repeatedly until it shattered.” On Feb 11, 2021, Mosley allegedly sprayed pepper spray on detention officer Marcus Wilson. The investigator, Martravious Elkins, said Mosley refused to speak with him about spraying the officer.

Based on available records, Mosley was in jail from November 2018 to May 2019 and from January 2020 to April 2021, totaling two years without going to trial on any charge.

Hinds County Detention Numbers

Fifty-eight people in Hinds County Detention Centers by July 2, 2021, had spent more than two years there, documents the Jackson Free Press obtained show. The facilities hold 521 detainees at that time. Renewed concerns about the length of time pre-trial detainees spend at the Hinds County Detention Center and the Work Center, both in Raymond, surfaced after county officials found Mosley hanging in his cell in April after being locked up for 16 months.

On July 6, another detainee, Johnny Woodrow Gann, 33, was also found hanging in his cell, the second this year. Hinds County Sheriff’s Office spokesman Tyree Jones said in a July 12 interview that Gann had been indicted for burglary and was a convicted felon in possession of a firearm. He had been in jail since March.

Hinds County District Attorney Jody Owens talked in a July 8 interview about the different innovations his office has tried since his election in 2019, but he added that the volume of crime in recent times is a significant issue in how long the accused stay in detention without a trial.

“Realistically, we know the intake of crime in 2019 and 2020, and still what we’re seeing in 2021, the current system is not yet equipped to handle the volume of crime we have with the few judges we have,” Owens said. He ran as a “decarceral” prosecutor, meaning he pledged to free more people accused of non-violent crimes on the way to reforming the county’s criminal-justice system, or help track them into alternative programs.

Decreasing the pre-trial backlog in the county detention centers was a campaign point for candidates for both sheriff and DA in the 2019 elections, including late Sheriff Lee Vance and Owens, saying they would lead on a holistic analysis of the Hinds system, including the judicial branch. Vance died on Aug. 4 after testing positive for COVID-19 following an outbreak of the virus in Hinds County jail. Marshand Crisler is acting sheriff.

Owens told the Jackson City Council on May 4 that his “smart justice” initiative has diverted 400% more people from the criminal-justice system than the previous year. “We gave more boys and girls who are non-violent offenders second chances,” he said. Back on Jan. 26, 2001, Owens said he had diverted 300 in a press briefing recapping his first year in office.

Need More Judges

The district attorney said in the July 8 interview that if the judges in the county work a full schedule, there will still be significant backlogs and that he has been reaching out to state officials to get more resources. The Legislature approved one-year funding for two attorneys to work with the Hinds County district attorney’s office.

“We need permanent positions, but certainly we don’t want to be ungrateful for any help because we certainly need all the help we can get. But in addition, we need at least one, if not two, judiciary seats, and we need another fully funded judgeship in Hinds County. That’s my position,” Owens explained.

“And when I say fully funded, I mean a full-time judge, a full-time court reporter, a full-time law clerk, a full-time court administrator, those four positions, full judgeship, and also, of course, court bailiffs,” the district attorney added.

Need More Judges, Or Not?

Mosley’s last attorney, Harrison, had extensive experience in the practice of law in Hinds County, including serving as the prosecuting attorney for 10 years (1999-2009) and as a circuit judge (2009-2011). He said adding judges is a solution to the accused not spending extended time in jail as pretrial detainees in the county.

“I just think we don’t have enough judges. We don’t have enough prosecutors to handle the caseload in Hinds County. Hinds County has a large number of violent criminal detainees, and you need more judges and more prosecutors, more assistant district attorneys, they handle all the cases,” Harrison said.

Mississippi State Public Defender André de Gruy said in a phone interview on July 12 that he had not seen any evidence of an increase in crime that would justify needing another judge, as Owens had stated. De Gruy emphasized that additional judges may not be the panacea if the process of gathering evidence to present the case is not more effective.

“I keep hearing that there’s this surge in crime, but I had not seen any evidence of actually an increase in crime in Hinds County, or even in the city of Jackson,” the public defender said. “What we know is that there’s an increase in homicides and aggravated assaults.”

“So if you get 2,000 cases, 40 extra homicides isn’t going to show up as an increase in crime. But, you know, we recognize that those cases are going to take time,” De Gruy added.

“If the backlog is on gathering evidence, whether it’s evidence from the Jackson Police Department on their investigation or it’s the medical examiner’s office, or it’s the investigation from the defense after everything’s turned over to them, you’re not going to speed up the case (by) just putting a new judge there. The cases are still not going to be ready.”

BOTEC: ‘Archaic Practices’

Concerns of delay in processing cases in Hinds has been a longstanding concern. The Mississippi Legislature, in 2014, and then-Attorney General Jim Hood commissioned a study of causes and solutions for Jackson crime. One of the BOTEC Analysis Corp. reports, released in November 2015, focused on prosecution and case-processing times.

“In particular, the stakeholders wanted to know what resources are required to move cases faster, and whether Hinds County has a sufficient supply of those resources,” the report stated.

BOTEC noted that “there was a perception that long case-processing times emboldened criminals by creating a sense of impunity.” The report said the priority should be to get the process right by better court-management practices before adding more staffing. “All available evidence indicates that professional case-flow management is more effective to improve performance than increased staffing, but it is not available in Hinds County,” BOTEC investigators found.

“The lack of support by professional court managers means that judges work harder while being slowed down by archaic practices,” BOTEC explained. “Good institutional management requires ensuring that a system is working as efficiently as possible before assuming that increased staffing is needed.”

District Attorney Owens told the press in January that his office is using an ineffective system to manage its workflow. “One of the challenges that we have is that we have antiquated software. It’s very difficult for us to keep the data the way we want it to be. We’d looked at getting upgraded systems and working with the board of supervisors on providing that,” he explained then.

The 2014 BOTEC report emphasized the importance of overhauling the county’s court system’s processes before any other step.

“Unless the Hinds County Circuit Court Clerk’s Office overhauls its docketing and data-collection practices, the effectiveness of any attempt to improve case-processing speed will remain unknown because outcomes cannot be measured,” the BOTEC report said.

“All open cases should be managed in a computer system that accurately identifies significant court events so that case status may be correctly assessed.”

“Priority should be given to improving quality of data reporting, with periodic audits and cross-checking to ensure that statistics are properly generated,” it added.

“When the court can reliably track case information, improvement efforts can begin.” It is unclear if the county has taken those steps.

Hinds County Circuit Clerk Zack Wallace told the Jackson Free Press in a phone interview on Aug. 31 that the county has complied with the electronic filing of cases since 2014 based on Mississippi Supreme Court’s order.

“We are doing all the docketing for circuit and county court,” he said. “I have attorneys emailing me documents; attorneys can actually file their own dockets on MEC—that is Mississippi Electronic Court.”

“So there’s nothing slowing down with the circuit clerk’s office, and filers are not slowing down at all,” he added. “Even if the judges have to file an order or something, they can email it to me, I have access at home, or I go to the office to make sure it goes into the file, and once it’s uploaded to the file, all the attorneys that are registered in that particular case number, they receive a copy of that document.” He said that the other items are up to the judges’ court administrators.

Green: Double The Judges

Hinds County Circuit Court Senior Judge Green also says the various issues affecting the extended stay of inmates in Hinds County court for decades include an inadequate number of judges.

“Our number needs to double, even if they only double for a while, and then if the caseloads go down, certainly the Legislature can reduce it,” she told the Jackson Free Press on July 26. “But right now, there’s no question that we need more judges, courtrooms and staff.”

The current four circuit-court judges handle felony cases, with municipal or county courts dealing with misdemeanors. The Hinds County Circuit Court covers two judicial districts, which include 10 cities: Jackson Terry, Byram, Clinton, Pocahontas, Edwards, Bolton, Utica, Pocahontas and Raymond.

“The four judges have to take care of all the felony cases that come down by indictment. I have to do those cases in between the indictment and when they are arrested, hearing the motions. And I am supposed to be reviewing all the people in the jail to see if there are people there 90 days or more who haven’t been indicted,” Green said in the interview.

“But in the meantime, the DA is every month indicting more people, more charges,” she added. “Now we could have cases that are back four, five years old, just the volume of cases for four judges.”

Green said the judges’ job also includes civil cases with plaintiffs seeking a minimum of $200,000 in damages, serving as appellate judges for lower courts and tribunals, defendants already in jail, filing post-trial motions, and cases filed against the State of Mississippi.

“And with four judges, that becomes extremely difficult,” she added.

Having been a judge since 1999, as well as the first woman judge in Hinds County Circuit Court and a lawyer for 15 years before that, Green says there is a noticeable increase in the volume of cases at the Hinds County Circuit Court.

“I don’t think anyone has looked at Hinds County to see whether the volume of cases requires a larger number of judges at the circuit level,” she said.

“I’ve been here from the time that I was practicing law for about 15 years before I even took up the bench. But there were only four judges then, and it’s still only four circuit judges now.”

“But we just need more judges. I think the caseload justifies it, the work justifies it, the criminal docket justifies it, and we need twice what we have now,” she added.

“The volume of cases has increased, and early on when I was with the Legislature, we were trying to get the Legislature to underwrite additional judges for Hinds county, and they didn’t.”

Green was in the Mississippi House of Representatives from 1992 to 1998 before her election to the bench. Recalling the debates on increasing the number of judges for Hinds County and the objections to it, she said some say that the caseload does not justify it, and there was consideration for the financial implication on the county.

“At that time, I think one of the questions was not only is it that the State has to pay—the State only pays for the judges—it’s an unfunded mandate to your county,” the chief judge said.

Green said the county has to pay for support staff, including bailiffs, as well as provide offices and courtrooms, and everything else judges need to do their jobs, or reimburse the State for the expenses.

Waiting For Mental Evaluation

As part of Mosley’s prosecution for murder, the court, in its scheduling order for the case dated Oct. 20, 2020, said that the “Defendant shall within thirty (30) days from today’s date file their motion for mental evaluations pursuant to M.R.Cr.P. 12 (Mississippi Rules of Criminal Prosecution), motion for speedy trial and/or motion for bond.”

The order set the trial date for March 8, 2021, one month before Mosley was found hanging in detention. On Feb. 26, 2021, the judge moved the trial day to Sept. 13 after appointing Harrison as his defense attorney.

After the Oct. 20, 2020, court order, the next item in the docket was a Dec. 1, 2020, motion for bond by the defense. There was nothing about “mental evaluation.” After Harrison took over the case on Feb. 9, 2021, he filed a motion for discovery the next day. His request from the prosecution included “records, reports, results of any psychological/psychiatric tests of the defendant.” There is no indication that he got any information of that nature or if Mosley’s case ultimately warranted it.

However, many of the 521 detainees in Hinds County detention centers need mental evaluation for their cases to proceed. Still, only a few dozen beds are available at the Mississippi State Hospital, with 16 for Hinds County, county sheriff’s office officials told the Jackson Free Press.

“We’ve got 133 people that we are waiting to get access to 16 beds,” late Sheriff Vance said in his office on July 9. With him were Undersheriff Alan White, Assistant Warden Travis Crain and Chief Deputy Eric T. Wall. White said the number used to be 120. An evaluation can last between three months and one year, the assistant warden indicated.

“We have about 10 court-ordered detainees that have been ordered to (go to) state hospital that we still have to house because they don’t have a bed available for them,” White said.

“And they must have that evaluation before they can progress through the criminal-justice system,” the late sheriff added. “Because of the situation with the severely mentally ill people, they are basically stuck in our system.”

De Gruy indicated that the number 133 might not be just those awaiting an initial mental evaluation. “I’d be shocked if they’ve got 133 that are just waiting on an evaluation,” De Gruy said.

“They’re not all going to need a bed. And I suspect that there may be some other delays in those cases, like (waiting) on somebody to gather medical records to give to the (medical) provider, or (it) could be some other kind of a delay in getting everything to the (medical) provider.”

Jails: ‘Mental Health Institutions’

Before becoming a judge, Tomie Green worked as the Mississippi Department of Mental Health Services coordinator from 1980 to 1981. She said officials need to address the issue of pre-trial inmates needing mental-health evaluations to help speed up trials.

“Our state hospital has only (about) 50 beds to make evaluations for 82 counties and 22 circuit districts, only (about) 50 beds and only two security people to help take care of the 50 people while they are being evaluated,” she said. “So it takes years to get into the State hospital. So we’ve got no beds or not enough people to (perform the evaluation).”

Green said the procedure is that if an individual is not competent to stand trial, the court will remand them to the Mississippi State Hospital for restoration to competency. If, after a year, they are not brought back to competency, the next step is a civil commitment through Hinds County Chancery Court.

But the story does not end there. After an order for civil commitment, “two years later they are still in the beds at the jail because they can’t get a bed at the state hospital; there’s just no bed there to house them,” Green said.

“What I’ve got to do is pull from budget items where I’ve got some money from each judge to pay for (private forensic psychiatrist). By the time the private report comes back, if we commit them, the state hospital still has no room for them, and they just linger in the jail,” Judge Green added. “So when you see someone with five or six years (as a jail inmate), they may be there because that’s the only place they have a bed.”

This, she said, may be the case for “40% to 50%” of the jail population.

“The state has not developed a system for people who have not been convicted of any crime, may be charged, but can’t be convicted of a crime, and are being treated in the jail. Jails have become our new mental institutions,” she added.

Mississippi Public Defender De Gruy argues that an assessment does not have to occur at the state hospital and that Hinds County may be unwilling to go through other routes because of the cost. “(The County) may not want to spend a few thousand dollars to have a private evaluation, but the time that the case is waiting, it’s costing them money just to have them sitting there waiting on a bed,” De Gruy told the Jackson Free Press.

In the Mississippi Rule of Criminal Procedure, citations of the Mississippi State Hospital as a place for mental evaluations are paired with the option for “other appropriate mental health facility.”

State Hospital Responds

The section of the Mississippi State Hospital that performs mental evaluations for pre-trial detainees is called MSH Forensic Services. In lieu of an interview, MSH said in a Thursday, July 15, emailed statement to the Jackson Free Press that “MSH Forensic Services provides outpatient and inpatient psychiatric evaluations for pre-trial defendants and post-conviction appellants referred by the circuit courts. It also provides extended evaluation and comprehensive treatment for non-competent defendants and insanity acquittees.”

MSH avers that the wait time for an initial evaluation is 40 days beginning from the day that the hospital gets the order “and minimal background information.” The statement said that those in need of inpatient beds at the hospital wait longer.

“We are currently conducting some evaluations by telehealth, and some evaluations are being conducted by independent contractors, so not all evaluations are done here at the hospital,” the statement continues. “MSH Forensic Services has in recent years significantly reduced wait times for services including initial competency evaluations and inpatient evaluations and competency restoration.”

MSH says the number of individuals awaiting evaluations fell from 140 in 2016 to 88 in December 2020. The “bed capacity for Forensic Services was increased from 35 beds in 2016 to 56 in 2019, and a project has been approved that will create additional beds,” the statement promised.

‘Crippling’ Examiner Backlog

In July, DA Owens said the State of Mississippi has not come up with a solution for the backlog of evidence that the State Crime Lab needs to process before trials can occur. The delay is “crippling,” he said, with 150 outstanding autopsies. He cited the cost of recruiting forensic pathologists to Mississippi as a reason.

“The state crime lab analyzes evidence, including bodies and blood and semen and all types of things, to determine the cause of death and who did what,” Owens said. “We have to figure out a way for the major crimes, the murders, the rapes to be resolved. And right now, we have a significant backlog at the state medical examiner’s office.”

“That’s a significant issue that we really can’t resolve without the state looking into the backlog and making sure that they increase their capacity to give autopsy reports back, because that’s generally how you are able to prosecute the violent crime, by having the information you need to take something to trial and move on from there,” the Hinds DA added.

In January, Owens outlined how the problem at the State Crime Lab has increased in the last few years.

“Before last year (2020), we had 88 autopsies that were outstanding before the Mississippi State Crime Lab,” he told reporters. “And, you know, we had 137 murders in our county last year.”

Mayor Chokwe A. Lumumba discussed the problems at the State Crime Lab at the July 20 Jackson City Council Meeting after Jackson Police Department Chief James Davis talked about the lab’s slow pace of producing results. The mayor said he recently discussed the problem with Mississippi State Department of Public Safety Commissioner Sean Tindell.

“They haven’t opined what the plan is moving forward,” the mayor said and explained that the difficulty is not just about being short-staffed, but the staff also have to move across the state to testify at different courts.

“So they’re often having to leave the process of doing an autopsy to go and testify in court based on what their findings were,” Lumumba added. “The only solution I would imagine is getting more physicians that can do the evaluations.”

Ward 3 Councilman Kenneth Stokes said constituents have to delay burial plans because the bodies stay at the crime lab for many months. “Lots of people have been trying to have funerals cannot have funerals because of the state (crime lab) situation,” he said.

State Public Defender De Gruy said that the problem at the State Crime Lab is felt statewide and suggested ways to expedite the process by performing depositions with the medical examiner in the office.

“There are people who say, well, that that’s not necessarily going to move it forward because then they’re going to still want to call the person if the case goes to trial,” De Gruy said.

“But the truth is most cases don’t go to trial; most cases end in a plea.” The idea with doing depositions is to advance the case to get a deal sooner, he noted.

“There may be some other things that the Department of Public Safety and the medical examiner’s office can do to get the evidence back to the lawyers faster so they can move these cases faster,” De Gruy added. “That seems to be a problem we’re seeing across the state (where a) case can’t go anywhere because it’s a homicide case. They have to prove (the) cause and manner of death, and they don’t have a medical examiner’s report.”

De Gruy said it is a mystery to him why the state medical examiner’s office does not quickly create reports to speed up the persecution process. “I don’t understand exactly why the medical examiner is so far behind on producing reports in the first place. I don’t know if they don’t have enough doctors or why they don’t have enough doctors,” he said.

The 2021 House Bill 974 that Gov. Tate Reeves signed in March targeted the operations of the state medical examiner’s office, apparently to remedy the problems of getting speedy reports. It established the position of medical examiner investigators, who will be nonphysicians appointed and trained by the chief medical examiner and who “assist with the certification of deaths affecting the public interest.” They are authorized to assist with performing and completing autopsies.

Hinds County Deputy Public Defender Chris Routh said in an interview that his department has started seeing autopsies quicker since Dr. Mark LeVaughn left as the state medical examiner in January 2021. “We still do not have reports from some of the autopsies he performed,” Routh stated. “We are seeing reports much faster since he left.”

“For a long time there, we just weren’t getting autopsies for months or two or three years sometimes,” he added.

Quicker Evidence, Faster Trials

Judge Green said that the process of getting evidence ready delays the adjudication of cases. “What takes a long time is getting all the evidence to exchange it with the defendant, to get an autopsy, if necessary, to get witnesses, statements, and the more serious the trial is, the longer it takes,” Green said in the Zoom interview.

The deputy public defender, Routh, said there is a problem with speedily getting evidence to the defense from the district attorney’s office.

“I think that, frankly, if the district attorney’s office indicts a case, they need to have all of the evidence ready to go and ready to send to the person’s defense lawyer so that we can provide them a speedy and effective defense,” he said.

“If the State can’t get their case together and go to trial within a reasonable time, it’s not fair for someone to have to sit in jail for years while that happens,” he added. “We’ve got a lot of extreme problems, just getting basic, what we refer to as discovery, just like the basic evidence that the State says they have against people. They (district attorney’s office) almost never give that to us when they’re supposed to.”

The senior circuit judge said that many times there’s not a good evaluation to determine whether a case should not be a felony but a misdemeanor, and therefore never indicted. “And sometimes it just takes longer; like right now we are about two years behind in autopsies,” Green said. “If there is a death, we’ve got a problem of there not being available examiners.”

She said that the judicial process starts with law enforcement officials, who make arrests and charge offenses and then need to send cases to the DA.

“Sometimes I’ll have people in jail, and the DA doesn’t even know they are there because the municipalities have not sent the cases to them,” the senior judge said. “And when I sent them a show-cause (letter for them to state) why this person is down there, it’s 120 days, and they say that sometimes it is the first time they’re seeing (the case). We have a couple of cities that won’t send them to the DA, and they should be transferred over.”

Green did not name those cities but said via email on Aug. 27 that “we hope that municipal or city clerks will begin to forward the paperwork to the Circuit Clerk.” She also mentioned the need for a timely transfer of “Initial Appearance Orders and Preliminary Hearing orders to the District Attorney and the County’s Circuit Clerk, Zack Wallace.”

The senior judge said better case screening at the level of the police and even the district attorney before charging and indicting is vital, and she pushed back against the practice of “over arrest” or “overcharge” to “make the public feel good.”

“We should have the evidence, and if you’ve got the evidence, it shouldn’t be a problem,” Green said. “But we’ve a lot of problems with evidence—whether it is sufficient to convict someone.”

She said the prosecution should not wait until the case gets to the judges for screening, and then arrest based on a crime they have committed, not just to keep people in jail and off the streets.

“Let me give you an example,” she said. “You’ll have three teenagers and they are all caught in the car, the police officer pulls them over, they get (a radio information) that a murder has been committed and they described three black males in one car.” The police charges the three with murder and indicted.

“And sometimes it’s two years into discovery, and we realize we have only one shooter and he went back and picked up these two guys, and they ended up in the car with him,” she added. “If there’s an assessment by a DA of the cases before it gets to a grand jury, they may find out that two of the cases should have been misdemeanors, but again, our jail starts filling up because we keep indicting individuals.”

Green criticized over-indicting. “It may be a manslaughter or a self-defense, (but) we are going to get (the suspect) indicted for murder, so we can plead it down, we can offer a better plea deal when we knew in the beginning that that’s all it was—manslaughter or self-defense," she said. “But for the defendant that gets caught up in that, he’s sitting in jail if the bond is high, and he can’t move forward.”

Paying Public Defenders More

The senior judge said that assistant county public defenders should be paid better to guard against high staff turnover, which sets back defendants’ cases as a new defense attorney has to start again. She indicated that Hinds County has a full staff of public defenders, but they do not get the same salary as assistant district attorneys. The state government funds the district attorney’s office while the counties fund the public defendant’s office.

“And every time a lawyer leaves, the new lawyer coming in has to start the whole case all over again, and that backs up the docket,” Green added.

The Mississippi constitution provides that assistant DAs get $15,000 per year and up to 90% of the salary of the DA ($125,900), based on experience. It says that the ​​county board of supervisors sets the public defender’s salary, ​​which should not be less than the district attorney’s. It says nothing about assistant public defenders’ salaries, however.

“We need to have more public defenders that are paid comparably with the DA,” Green said. “If someone leaves the public defender’s office and goes right across to the DA’s office, they get an increase. So I do not really understand why they couldn’t have been paid well to represent the defendants charged with a crime.”

Deputy Public Defender Routh said that when the county employed him six years ago, his salary was $40,000 lower than a colleague employed at the same time at the district attorney’s office, even though he had a year more than her experience.

“There is and has been for a long time, if not always, a great disparity in the salaries,” he said in the phone interview. “It’s not just Hinds County, it’s a systemic problem, certainly in all of Mississippi, if not the country, where the services of public defenders are not valued the same as equally qualified district attorneys.”

“It keeps us from both getting and keeping really qualified folks to come work for us,” Routh added.

“It’s never a good situation where someone has to have a new lawyer every few months or whatever because those lawyers can’t afford to stay working at the public defender’s office.”

The public defender argued that because the U.S. Constitution requires people to have a defense counsel for crimes and there is no such requirement for district attorneys, they deserve better.

“So why are we paying the people who are doing the job that’s mandated by the Constitution less than we are the prosecutor?” he asked.

“We can’t keep folks other than folks who are either independently wealthy or dedicated to representing people to the point where sometimes it makes us poor,” he added. “It’s just kind of fundamentally unfair, and there’s no reason for it.”

Right to A Speedy Trial

State Public Defender De Gruy said there are various reasons why cases delay getting to trial, but added that taking up to one year maximum may be a sufficient goal at this point.

“The Mississippi Supreme Court has said a person should be brought to trial in eight months,” he said in the phone interview. “And then we have a 270-day rule, which starts with arraignment, which is not until after indictment.”

Owens said in May to the Jackson City Council that Hinds County is not having speedy trials. “And we know best practices is that from arrest to conviction has to be a year. Here in Hinds County, we’re close to about two and a half to three years. That means we’re not solving crimes fast enough,” the DA said.

“I need help. I have more than 3,000 cases in my office. I have 12 (attorneys handling) 3,000 cases.” The Legislature funded two assistant district attorney positions for one year in the last legislative session (2020-2021) as a partial remedy to the situation.

While diverting hundreds from jail and their cases being dropped in exchange for a commitment to different diversion programs can help, another practice leads to an increase in inmates, Owens explained to the city council.

“Now, in (our) administration, if someone commits a crime (when) they’re out on bond, and that crime is punishable by more than five years and a day, we immediately move to revoke their bond,” he said. “Then they won’t be eligible for a bond until the case is resolved. But that’s the whole balloon effect, which would put too many people in the sheriff’s jail.”

De Gruy told the Jackson Free Press that getting homicide cases resolved is indeed getting increasingly difficult because of delays at the State Crime Lab. He, however, noted that the City of Jackson, which District Attorney Owens said is responsible for 85% of the crime prosecuted in Hinds County, has its own crime lab.

However, Jackson Police Department spokesman Sam Brown said in a phone interview that “80% to 90%” of the evidence collected goes to the State Crime Lab.

“We have a mobile crime lab that goes out and gathers the evidence and processes them; any test that needs to be done, they will go over to the state,” he said.

“Depending on what the situation is, that could be anything from a second opinion or a more definitive answer or analysis, something like that so that they would send it over to the state,” Brown added.

“A lot of the crimes that are committed, like homicide and things like that, or a lot of the drug tests, we would send that information to the State Crime Lab for transparency,” Brown added.

Owens argued for more support for his office by the City of Jackson in the July interview. “The police departments are functioning at all-time lows and have more crime. And we know that we know there’s a police shortage as such the quality of what we can get from those departments has diminished just sheerly because of capacity,” the district attorney said.

“They got some great people over there working really hard, and we appreciate the brave jobs they do, but we need more support to be able to prosecute cases more fully. A few hundred thousand dollars would go a long way in helping us solve and prosecute the crimes that are happening in Jackson.”

Stuck in the System

Late Sheriff Lee Vance said a detainee should not have to be in detention for more than one year. “Some of the resources that are needed are not in line with how many people are somewhat stuck in the system pre-trial,” he told the Jackson Free Press weeks before he died. “That’s definitely a big problem because that leads to people being housed in our facility for a lot longer than they should be.”

“Our responsibility is to house individuals really indefinitely under the set of circumstances that we’re dealing with now,” the late sheriff added. “In a perfect system or at least an improved system, you could probably predict somebody may be down there (at the detention center) a year or so before they go to trial. But, circumstances get in the way of that, and so we end up being the place where these folks pretty much get stuck.”

Based on documentation Undersheriff Alan White provided to the Jackson Free Press, 301 people in Hinds County Detention Centers on July 2 have spent up to six months there. Ninety seven have spent between six months and one year, 65 between one and two years, 29 between two and three years, 15 between three and four years, and 14 people have spent over four years behind bars.

One hundred and seventy-three inmates have spent more than 90 days in jail post-indictment, 32 between 45 and 90 days post-indictment, 121 have spent over 90 days without being indicted, and 46 have spent between 45 and 90 days in detention without being indicted.

One of the Hinds County detainees, whom Sheriff Vance did not name, has been in the Hinds County Detention Center for eight years and has been to the Mississippi State Hospital several times. Health officials have not declared him competent to stand trial. “So until he could stand trial, we are kind of stuck with him,” Assistant Warden Crain said.

Bond Denial, A Problem

Routh disputes that mental-health evaluation needs swell up the jail, contending that the court slaps a high or no bail on defendants for no good reason.

“The problems that the jail itself is having are all compounded, if not made by the lengths of pretrial detention,” he said. “It’s the refusal to give bond in a lot of these cases where warranted.”

“And it has gotten better with the state hospital about getting those mental evaluations done in a timely manner.”

Routh said the lag in discovery and lack of autopsy report and bond denial bogged down Justin Mosley’s case and prolonged his stay in detention. “Mr. Mosley sat in a lengthy pretrial detention,” he said. “He was denied bond at least once.”

The law provides that everyone accused of a crime is entitled to bond, and Routh protested the rationale for denying Mosley a bond.

“The real key issue to me is that he wasn’t given bond. And everyone likes to get all up in arms and complain about people being dangerous to the community. But the fact of the matter is everyone charged with a crime is entitled to bond; they’re entitled to pretrial release,” he said.

“Pretrial detention should be the exception, not the rule, and we asked the court to give (Mosley) a bond which he’s constitutionally entitled to, and then they denied it,” Routh added.

“When his next attorney, Mr. Harrison, made the same request for a bond, Mr. Mosley took his life before the court even ruled on the bond issue.”

“But you know,” Routh said, “if Mr. Mosley had been out on bond, this (hanging in a detention cell) wouldn’t have been an issue for him.”

Email story tips to city/county reporter Kayode Crown at kayode@jacksonfreepress.com. Follow Kayode on Twitter for breaking news at @kayodecrown.

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Kayode CrownWed, 01 Sep 2021 11:50:00 -0500https://jacksonfreepress.com/news/2021/sep/01/lost-broken-system-why-detainees-spend-years-hinds/
Guys We Love 2021https://jacksonfreepress.com/news/2021/jun/02/guys-we-love-2021/

From our fathers to our mentors and colleagues, we all have men in our lives whom we appreciate for being there when we need them. This month, the Jackson Free Press pays tribute to men from the metro who give back to their communities or otherwise have endeavored to better the city we call home through their arts, careers and service.

Adrian J. Austin

When Adrian J. Austin enlisted in the U.S. Navy shortly after his graduation from Callaway High School in 1994, he had his eye on the Montgomery Bill, a program that provides tuition assistance for GI's. "I was in Army JROTC (in high school)," Austin recalls. "But it seemed like the Navy was a better fit because it offered money for college."

Twenty-seven years and three mobilizations later, the U.S. Navy has given Austin a career and an education, as he studied at Hinds Community College before finishing his business-administration degree at Belhaven University. "It's all been rewarding," Austin says of his time in the armed forces. "I've seen the world, but I missed my family."

Now part of the Naval Reserves, Austin makes it a point to prioritize his family and his hobbies, one of which is barbecuing on his new barrel grill. "I've been tinkering with it," Austin admits. "The family enjoys it. I've put 
everything from baby-back ribs to asparagus in it, and it's my relaxing time. I actually get a lot of pleasure out of it when I'm not having to smell chemicals and can smell cherry wood or mesquite."

Austin's family, which includes his wife, his 17-year-old and two stepchildren, enjoys sampling his slow-cooked offerings during their weekly Sunday lunch.

"We're a blended family, but we get along very well and love each other hard," he says. "We have a great support system, and we cherish the time we have together."

The veteran also donates his time to his local faith community at New Horizon Church off Ellis Avenue in south Jackson.

"I've been blessed," Austin says of his experience with the church. "One way is by giving and the other is by the camaraderie of the love I've received. It's wholesome." —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Christian Vance

Christian Vance studied criminal justice at Jackson State University, and he says that his time in the classroom taught him a vital lesson that he uses each day as a member of the Jackson Police Department: Creating an atmosphere of peace is essential.

"It's a historical fact that countries and empires expand during turmoil," Vance remarks. "But people thrive academically, economically, artistically and culturally in times of peace."

This belief informs and transforms his work on the police force, as he notes that "arresting bad guys" is only a small part of his job description. "We do a whole lot, as far as settling disputes between neighbors and responding to alarm calls, and we respond to traffic accidents," Vance says. "We're the glue. We don't have job descriptions, so we do what needs to be done."

The Murrah High School graduate tries to maintain his peace-building efforts when he's off the clock as well, serving as a coach for the police department's "Pals" basketball team and working with The Firm Foundation, a 
local nonprofit dedicated to mentoring young people in the metro area.

"We have community nights and put together career fairs for middle-school kids so they can meet people in the field they aspire to be in," Vance says of his work with the foundation, which often partners with the John & Vera Mae Perkins Foundation and the Boys and Girls Club on Capitol Street.

"With COVID, we had to fall back a little bit with those activities, but most of our week-to-week work is character building," Vance adds. "We want to change their 
perspective on themselves and their community and on what it means to be effective."

Vance and his wife, Alla, who is a teacher at McWillie Elementary School, focus on character development in their own home, too, raising four children who all attend Jackson Public Schools. —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Kinoy Brown

When Kinoy Brown suffered an injury that kept him away from his job at Nissan North America in Canton, he grew restless as he recovered at home.

"I started going live on Facebook," Brown says of his attempts to curb his own boredom. "It was all for jokes and laughs to get everybody's day started, but I looked back one day, and the crowd had grown, and people started taking the show seriously."

Tired of the early-morning wake-up calls that his social-media shenanigans 
required, Brown attempted to end the show once he returned to work. The requests for more entertainment kept coming, however, and eventually, a state lobbyist contacted him to encourage him to continue.

Brown was still uncertain, but after his mother passed away from complications of COVID-19 in April 2020, he knew that the old adage was true: The show must go on. "She was such a big giver," Brown reflects. "After she passed, I promised myself that I would keep the show going in her memory."

The show has now expanded to a full-scale talk show—dubbed KBRS—which Brown hosts from his car. The show is available on Facebook and YouTube and has also grown beyond its initial comedic scale, and the man who's fondly known as the "Kenny Stokes of Canton" now uses his digital presence to promote community activism.

"I got a call from Blackburn Middle School, and they were having problems with kids' hygiene," Brown recalls. "I got thousands of donations of deodorant, socks, toothbrushes, toothpaste, and we presented that school with two truckloads of items. People know I'll do the right thing with whatever they give me."

Cantonians trust Brown with their economic success, too, as Brown currently serves as the chairman of the Canton Municipal Utilities Board and holds a seat on the city's Chamber of Commerce. —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Haywood Hannah

Haywood Hannah's lifelong love of music paved the way for his receipt of two college scholarships—first to Holmes Community College and then another to Jackson State University, where he travelled the country as part of Opera South and a performing choir, all while earning a degree in music education.

"The best part of my time there was that I got to meet so many people," Hannah recalls. "I met the news 
anchor Carole Simpson, and I also met (Olympic athlete) Jesse Owens. It really impacted me to meet a star like that before he passed."

Hannah then decided to make it his life's mission to help develop rising stars in his own community, teaching music lessons and working as an educator and principal in Attala, Holmes and Leake counties.

While living in Attala County, Hannah organized the Attala County Youth Mass Choir, with whom he recorded the first of his three gospel albums. "I kept that going for about 10 years," Hannah says of his involvement with the program.

"Once I accepted a call to the ministry, I fell away from that, but now that I'm retired from education, I'm writing music and recording again."

That call to become a leader within the United Methodist church is what originally brought Hannah to the metro area, as he now pastors Greer Chapel in Flowood, although he acknowledges that he has done work within the larger denominational conference as well.

"I've been able to perform and be part of different activities," he says.

Despite his continuing engagement with his music and his commitment to his parish, the JSU and Mississippi State University graduate does cherish his semi-retirement, which allows him to spend more time with his family. "Family is a priority for me," Hannah concludes. "The thing that I enjoy most about being retired is being part of my grandchildren's lives." —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Devin Winsett

Devin Winsett spent a year teaching English as a second language in Mexico after his graduation from Millsaps College in 2016, but watching the presidential election later that year brought him back to the United States by way of New Orleans. "I realized I didn't belong in Mexico," Winsett says of his cross-continental move.

"Everything I'd done before that was about working on socioeconomic inequality in the U.S., and I wanted to get back to that."

During his time as a public charter-school teacher in the Crescent City, Winsett realized that he particularly enjoyed the "on the ground" aspect of his work with students, saying, "I was interested in what was getting in the way of kids learning in the classroom. I started asking questions like, 'Why is a kid crying in the hallway?'"

After a stint as a case planner for a residential group home in Brooklyn, N.Y., Winsett was firmly convinced that his original dreams of academia were a thing of the past, and he enrolled in the Master of Social Work program at Jackson State University and accepted a post in workforce development at Refill Jackson, which equips young people ages 18 to 24 to find meaningful employment.

"I didn't plan to do social work in the context of workforce development, but the more I'm in this context, the more that I see it's a good context," Winsett reflects. "But it takes many contexts to make positive change in an area."

Winsett believes, though, that Jackson is ripe for positive change.

"I think that Jackson's greatest strength is its community and the people there. I think the best form of change that social workers can enact is to empower the folks that live here to become the best versions of themselves by erasing the barriers they face, whether through individual change, community organization or state-level policy changes." —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Ryan Porter

Ryan Porter spent a large portion of his life as the owner and operator of Ranco Transmission Service, but he noticed that all of his customers were unhappy. "Nobody really wants to buy a transmission," Porter says with a laugh. "But people are happy when they buy a home."

Hoping to bring that same joy to 
metro-area residents in search of a home, Porter began investing in real estate. "I really fell in love with the industry," he recalls. "And from there, I realized that I really enjoyed watching people buy a house."

The Florence High School graduate learned these early lessons at the knee of Billy McKee, the owner of McKee Realty in Flowood, but he eventually realized that he wanted to open his own brokerage.

Next Home Realty, a California-based real-estate company, helped make those dreams of an independent brokerage come true when Porter opened a Brandon-based branch of the nation-wide franchise. 
 However, his first month in business was March 2020, coinciding with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in Mississippi. "It was kind of scary for a little bit," Porter admits. "But we made it, and we have 20 agents right now with more coming on in the next few weeks."

Porter attributes some of Next Home Realty's success to its "fresh, exciting brand," as the company works with firms who have designed for Tiffany & Co., Visa and the NFL, and he's glad to bring such strong marketing to the metro area.

"Jackson is special to me for a lot of reasons," he says. "It's our hometown, and if you don't take care of your surroundings, you won't take care of anything. Overall, it's easy to see the good in Jackson. We have a lot of cool and unique things here."

He also believes that two of Jackson's best features are his two daughters.

"I just thought I had the biggest heart, but their hearts swallow mine," Porter concludes. —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Bobby D. Brown

When Bobby D. Brown started teaching at Lanier High School in 1996, he only expected to stay for two years—just enough time for his then-girlfriend to finish college. "Needless to say, I fell in love with the profession and out of love with her," Brown says with a laugh. Twenty-five years later, his love for students in the Jackson Public School 
District has remained true, as he is now the principal at Jim Hill High School.

Brown always refers to the thousand students at the south Jackson high school as "scholars," which he says is a carefully selected term. "I think it's significant because all of us have God-given talents that provide us with the ability to learn," Brown states. "If you're a person with a thirst for learning, you're a scholar."

He estimates that 95% of his student body would meet that criteria, which he believes bodes well for their futures.

"We foster an environment where students can look at things from an introspective standpoint to see how their lives can blossom and what they can do to create a future they desire," he says. "If they empower themselves, it will move them from one place in life to the next."

Watching students throughout the district advance into bright futures has been a key inspiration for Brown, who recently watched a child of his own graduate from the Jackson public school system.

"What's made me stay in JPS is that the children you see once were me," Brown reflects. "We have a population who were similarly situated as I was when I was growing up in a single-parent household living at or below the poverty line. I had a desire to do more, and a lot of scholars throughout the city come to school bright-eyed and ready to do more." —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Jonathan Haynes

Jonathan Haynes got his start as a singer at 6 years old, and 12 years later, the young performer landed his first record deal. "Singing has always been a passion for me," Haynes says of his early days in the entertainment industry. "I grew up singing in the choir."

Gospel music remained a primary focus for the Gulfport native even during a stint in the nursing program at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, and he realized upon his graduation that he was meant to pursue a career in the music field. "I loved (nursing school), and I always wanted to help people," Haynes reflects now. "But I didn't start nursing when I got out, because I knew there was something else for me."

That "something else" was a career on the road, singing and sharing his talents with audiences around the country. Eventually, though, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic ground his travels to a halt. "It was very hard," Haynes acknowledges. "I started losing money because I'm usually on the road making money."

Haynes credits God for the inspiration to start other business ventures during the forced lapse in his musical career, and he started Songbird Productions to help other musical artists on their path to success. He also began Jonathan Haynes Ministry, LLC, which provides consulting services for those interested in investing in stocks and bonds.

"It was hard at first, but it's all about social media and word of mouth," Haynes says of his fledgling businesses. "But after three or four months, business was booming, and it's still booming."

The 25-year-old has no plans to slow down, as he says that he is planning to launch a fragrance and candle line in the coming months, along with putting out new music and penning a chapter in an upcoming inspirational novel. "I don't stop," Haynes concludes.

"There's always more for me to do." —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Wesley S. Prater

Wesley S. Prater always knew that he wanted to work and live in his home state, but his pursuit of higher education—and his passion for public health—took him around the country before seeing him land in his hometown of Jackson.

After graduating from Jackson State University, Prater moved to New Haven, Conn., to seek a master's in public health at Yale University, later working at the Georgetown University Center for Children and Families in Washington, D.C. Prater would eventually earn his Ph.D in public health at Ohio State University before moving back to the Magnolia State and accepting a position here with the W.K. Kellogg Foundation.

"I grew up here, and I feel like I understand Mississippi and understand the disparities in health, education, employment and poverty," Prater says. "My passion has always been improving the lives of others, and to do that, you have to address not only health disparities but disparities in early childhood education and race, and you have to create systemic and policy changes to do it."

He sees Mississippi as fertile ground for making such sweeping changes, citing the recent change of the state flag as a positive example of successful local activism. "I'm encouraged by our youth," Prater says. "And being a father of two Black daughters, everybody wants to make sure their children have the opportunity to succeed and thrive."

The St. Andrew's Episcopal School graduate believes that the work of the W.K. Kellogg Foundation is vital for continued change in the state, saying, "The Kellogg Foundation understands the issues and has been working for 90 years to address them. It's really all about working with folks on the ground who work in our communities."

COVID-19 has not derailed these grassroots efforts, as Prater lauds the work that community organizers have done over the last year. "It's been inspirational for me," he says. "Our partners have really doubled down to make sure that Mississippi is an 
equitable place to live."

Visit wkkf.org for more information. —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Endre Matthews

Just as Endre Matthews wrapped up his career at Mississippi Valley State University, a recruiter from Life University visited the Itta Bena campus and changed his life trajectory, as the Indianola native had previously been applying to physical therapy programs.

"When I found out I could do physical therapy as a chiropractor and still be a business owner, it worked out for me," Matthews says.

After spending four years earning his doctorate of chiropractic, Matthews returned to his home state and opened Matthews Chiropractic Clinic in the capital city in 2002. Two years later, he opened a second clinic in his hometown, and he divided the time between the pair of practices for 14 years, when he decided to give the Jackson location his undivided attention.

"It's extremely meaningful to be able to help the Jacksonians who come through the clinic doors each and every day," Matthews says of his daily work. "It's great to be able to help people without drugs, medicine and surgery. A lot of patients weren't getting any help anywhere or getting any type of relief for their ailments."

Matthews is well acquainted with his patients' suffering, as he experienced a health scare early last year. "I found out I had a heart condition, and I had been healthy all my life, so the doctors at UMMC said it was something I never knew I had," Matthews remarks. "God sat me down and let me know he was in control, and I'm healed and back better than ever, and the plan continues to go forward."

This grounding in faith is a motivating favor for Matthews' entire family, which includes his wife and three young daughters. "We are a blessed family, and we are driven by what God has done for us and what God continues to do for us on a daily basis," he says.

"I'm blessed all the way around, and I thank him for allowing me to be an outlet to the community." —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Paul Griffin Jones III

Although Paul "Trey" Jones and his wife, Missy, 
attended different high schools, their respective commencement speakers had a similar message: Mississippi raises some of the best and the brightest—only to watch them leave the state and never return. Jones did not want to become part of that unfortunate statistic, and he moved back to Mississippi after a stint in graduate school in Texas.

"We couldn't get away from the fact that there was a need to take our callings back to Mississippi," Jones says of his decision. Although he had earned a seminary degree while living in the Lone Star State, Jones says that he did not feel called to pastor a church and instead took a position as the director of the nonprofit arm at New Horizon Ministry. He would go on to become the executive director of The Mustard Seed before becoming the CEO of the state's Make-a-Wish Foundation.

"I enjoyed it," Jones says of his 18 years of leadership in the nonprofit world. "But honestly, I was tired of being an executive director. It's exhausting to be the one responsible all the time, and I experienced some professional burnout."

Jones remedied his own exhaustion by taking a position with Habitat for Humanity in Mississippi, providing support to all chapters in the state.

"About that same time, I felt the calling to return to a church," Jones recalls. "It was an odd time, and I really didn't know how to discern (that calling)."

A small church in south Jackson helped Jones through his period of contemplation, as he served as its pastor before accepting a post at a larger congregation in Brandon.

"It was an incredible ride of about two decades," Jones observes. "I got ready to serve a church by learning what was going on in the community and seeing some of its great needs—and its great potential." —Taylor McKay Hathorn

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JFP StaffWed, 02 Jun 2021 12:45:13 -0500https://jacksonfreepress.com/news/2021/jun/02/guys-we-love-2021/
Amazing Teens 2021https://jacksonfreepress.com/news/2021/may/05/amazing-teens-2021/

This year's Amazing Teens have all accomplished something that not many can claim: They completed the entirety of the last school year in the midst of a pandemic. For their perseverance, the Jackson Free Press recognizes these students from the Jackson metro who embody excellence in all that they do, and we believe that their dedication in the face of hardship will propel them even further as they ponder the next stages of their lives.

Samuel Wheat

When Samuel Wheat crosses the stage to receive his high-school diploma from Murrah High School this May, he'll mark the end of his time in the Jackson Public School District, where he has attended since kindergarten. JPS, however, will have given Wheat a parting gift in addition to his diploma: a love for dance.

"Back in fourth grade, I got into the Power APAC dance program," Wheat recalls. "So (my senior year) marks the eighth year I've been in the program."

During his eight-year tenure in the program that teaches ballet, jazz and modern dance techniques to area students, Wheat has gotten to see more of the country, travelling to Birmingham, Ala., to perform in the Alabama Dance Festival and visiting Cincinnati, Ohio, as part of a scholarship he earned through Power APAC.

Ultimately, Wheat credits his instructors for inspiring him to finish out the program. "I've always felt comfortable with them," he says. "It's a loving community of people there, and there's a lot to learn." His teachers also reminded him that he had many opportunities to learn outside of the studio, too, encouraging him to enroll in AP classes.

"Being in APAC, I felt like going to AP was the next step," Wheat says of his choice to take on more challenging coursework. "I wanted to work for a college credit and strive toward higher learning." Wheat hopes to use these college credits towards a degree in dance. He admits that he isn't sure which college he is planning to attend, though USM, Belhaven and Hinds Community College are all in the running. "They've just got to give me a little more scholarship money," he quips. —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Mauricsa Woods

Mauricsa Woods, who has operated Tootie's Trendy Treats since she was 13, takes every lesson from her microeconomics and business-management classes to heart. "(Those classes) have been quite helpful with what I should expect when I open my storefront," Woods says.

The Tougaloo Early College High School rising senior presently runs the confectionery out of her kitchen but hopes to establish a physical location for Tootie's in the immediate future. Juggling a homespun business with her other responsibilities, though, has taught Woods important lessons. "I have really good time-management skills," she says. "I have to put aside time for each different thing that I do."

One such time commitment includes her membership in the Disney Dreamer program, which Steve Harvey and Essence Magazine sponsor. Although the COVID-19 pandemic cut the 2020 program short, Disney transitioned its Dreamers to a four-month online mentorship program, allowing them to form relationships with experts in the students' fields of interest. The program paired Woods with Chef Carla Hall, which she says was "definitely the highlight of the program."

Hall has helped Woods keep a pulse on the nation's baking and pastry scene, as she's presently interested in attending classes offered by the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, N.Y., and NOCHI in New Orleans, La. College remains high on her priority list, though, evidenced by her recent application to the Mississippi University for Women, where she hopes to study at the Culinary Arts Institute and foster her love for writing and photography. —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Mehm Ha

Mehm Ha's freshman year at Callaway High School was his first year at an American high school, as he and his family had emigrated from Malaysia earlier that same year. "It wasn't easy. It was actually terrifying," Ha says of the experience. "But I had a lot of great teachers, and I get a lot of help at my house. I also do a lot of self-study."

His commitment to his schoolwork has helped Ha broaden his English vocabulary, with the high-school senior citing reading books and listening to music as his favorite ways to learn his new country's language. "Westlife is my favorite band," Ha reflects. "But I'll listen to any music—it doesn't matter."

Music keeps him energized as he scores goals on CHS's varsity soccer team, where he's been a member of the left-wing offense for four years. "When I first got here, I didn't know anybody, and I was in a coach's world geography class. He asked me if I wanted to join the team, so I tried out," Ha says of his early involvement with the team.

Athletics opened the door for further opportunities at the Jackson high school, and he now serves as a peer tutor. "I do a lot of subjects," Ha states. "I'm good at science and math, and I've improved in English. I tell (my classmates) that you've got to read about what you like, so that helps them build their vocabulary."

Ha did bring parts of his old culture with him, though, saying that he "learned a lot about computers" while living in Malaysia and plans to parlay that knowledge into a career as a computer data scientist. "I hope to work for NASA someday," Ha concludes. —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Elliott Stephen

When the time came for the seniors at St. Joseph Catholic High School to vote on this year's superlatives, Elliott Stephen's classmates voted him "most talented," which Stephen believes stems from his involvement in the school's bowling league, swim team, golf team and marching band. "I've done all of those things basically my whole time at St. Joe," Stephen says, though he does acknowledge that bowling has been his favorite of the three.

"You're having fun, but there's still a serious feel to it," Stephen says. "It also has some long trips involved." Despite those long trips—many of which come with 5:30 a.m. arrival times at rival schools—the athlete says that his teammates make the bus rides fun. He has also enjoyed the travels he's made with his bandmates, with whom he has played bass guitar, alto saxophone, tenor drum, bass drum and snare drum, noting with a laugh that he "hasn't managed to play them all at the same time," though.

When he isn't representing the local parochial school at various athletic or musical events, Stephen enjoys volunteering with his local parish, St. Richard's, which supports area soup kitchens through fundraising and by donating volunteer hours. He is also gearing up to start college at the University of Southern Mississippi this fall, where he hopes to follow his mother's footsteps into the nursing profession. "She really didn't make me or pressure me into it," Stephen reflects. "But she did tell me I would be a good nurse, and I also want to do something that will help people." —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Priyadarshini "Priya" Ray

While Priyadarshini "Priya" Ray's already-packed resume now boasts the title of valedictorian of her graduating class at Jackson Academy, the student asserts that earning the top-student position stems from her forward-thinking ambitions. "Making good grades was the goal for me because it'a a big part of the college admissions process," she says.

Nevertheless, Ray applauds her classmates for their commitment to collaboration in the pursuit of academic excellence. "I think teaching each other helped us achieve better understanding," she says. "It allows you to look at every single concept with multiple perspectives."

Ray had a knack for applying these concepts on standardized tests, qualifying to be a National Merit Finalist after scoring above Mississippi's selection index on the PSAT and submitting additional qualifying materials, including a resume, an essay and a letter of recommendation. "JA really helps you prepare for the PSAT," Ray says. "I honestly didn't even do too much studying on my own (because) JA really drilled the basic topics."

She also credits Jackson Academy with sharpening her writing skills, citing her 10th grade honors English course as her favorite. "Ms. McKay was tough on us," Ray recalls. "She had lots of rules: We couldn't use linking verbs or passive voice or the words 'this' or 'that.' It really challenged me and really transformed my writing."

The high-school senior will undertake yet another challenge this fall when she attends Georgetown University, where she plans to study biology in regard to global health. Although she'll be nearly 15 hours from her alma mater, Ray believes she'll find some commonalities between the two. "It's a closed campus, so you have a really good, tight-knit community while still being in an urban center with lots of opportunities," she says. —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Lilly Noble

When competing for a Miss Mississippi Outstanding Teen crown last year, Lilly Noble chose what she thought would be the perfect platform: today a reader, tomorrow a leader. "Mississippi actually ranks last nationally in literacy," she says of her choice to emphasize literacy. "We could do better, especially with all the amazing authors we have in the state."

To combat this disparity, Noble planned to spend her year as a titleholder traveling around the state reading to elementary school students, but when the pandemic struck, the now high-school senior was forced to rethink her project. "I created a website with videos of me reading to students, and I've done Zoom readings," Noble recalls. "It's inspiring to see kids get excited about reading."

The Jackson Preparatory School student has experienced that excitement herself, meeting her favorite author, Jacksonian Angie Thomas, at the Mississippi Book Festival two years ago. Thomas's debut novel, "The Hate U Give," is Noble's favorite, and she says that it opened her eyes to society's pervasive racism. "We can fix racism if we're aware of the problem," Noble claims. "We have to realize it's real and that it's around us."

Remedying societal ills is a passion for Noble, who will attend the University of Alabama to study pre-law this fall, a decision she made after interning with the Mississippi Center for Justice. "I want to do criminal defense for people who go to jail for a long time for minimal crimes," Noble says. "I want there to be people defending the people who need it most. Your jail time shouldn't be affected by how much you make at your job." —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Madison Temple

Madison Temple did something twice during her high-school career that many students never do once: win a state championship. "We had always gotten second place and had always lost by just a few points," Temple says of her dance team's early attempts at bringing home a state title. "But sitting on the floor and hearing them call your name—chills go down your back. It's crazy."

The second time was just as special for the Pearl High School senior, who lamented the graduation of several "great seniors" between the first and second championships, saying, "It's one thing to get to first place, but it's harder to stay there. We were able to do it, though."

Now that it's her turn to graduate, Temple looks with fondness on her memories of the Pearl Public School District, where she's attended since Kindergarten. "The people at every school in this district get so involved with you, and you can see that they actually care about what they're doing," Temple reflects. "It means a lot to see that, and it's like we're a big family."

She plans to join a new family this fall, as she has been accepted into Jones College in Ellisville, Miss. where she will be a member of the "Touch of Gold" dance team while studying health-related professions in pursuit of her dream of being an oncology nurse.

The oncology ward already holds a special place in her heart, as her mother was diagnosed with breast cancer when she was in second grade. "I've seen how the nurses and doctors have helped my family," Temple says. "I want to give back and help other families." —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Christopher Brown

When Christopher Brown was placed in a JROTC class as an elective his ninth grade year, he never expected to be named the school's cadet of the year nearly three years later. "It started out as something simple," Brown reflects. "But I was chosen as superior cadet my 10th grade year, and I was named cadet of the year this year."

The title comes with a weighty responsibility, as Brown will take over the top post in the school's JROTC program during his senior year. "I feel like they put a lot of trust in me as a leader," Brown says of the position. "They know I'll lead us the right way."

The high-school junior is no stranger to leadership, having participated in a service-learning program at Wilkins Elementary School during his freshman and sophomore years. "We got to help the students in the class," Brown recalls. "The students were getting to actually interact and have fun with what they were learning."

Brown hopes that his cohort's time at the elementary school will send a positive message about Wingfield High School to the local community. "I hope they see us as a giving school," he says. "We want to participate in our community and support them, and we want them to support us, too. We invite the community to participate in everything we do."

Once he graduates in May 2022, Brown plans to continue to positively represent his alma mater by attending college at Mississippi State University, where he says that he hopes to graduate debt-free with a degree in engineering. —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Devin Ard

Devin Ard has fond memories of attending Jackson State University games with his mother. There he would watch in awe as the band performed in the stands and on the field. He now hopes to soon be suiting up to join them.

Ard hasn't always dreamed of being in the band. The young athlete grew up playing sports. In fact, the summer before his freshman year of high school he made the Jim Hill High School basketball team. But when he went to play basketball in Georgia for the summer, he missed the team's summer workouts and lost his spot on the roster.

"I had to do something because I couldn't just sit at home after school every day, so I got into the band with my friend," he says. "Ever since then, I've really found a passion for music."

Ard joined the band as a freshman without having ever played an instrument. He knew nothing about marching in a band or reading music. With the help of band director Christopher Little, he learned to play the baritone within a school year. Soon after, he also learned to play the euphonium and became a leader in the brass section. After his sophomore year, his peers nominated for the position of drum major.

"It was something that became natural," he says. "I was looked upon as a leader."

In addition to leading the band, Ard is also a member of the National Honor Society. Going forward, he aims to become a doctor of sports medicine. He also aspires to one day help redevelop the West Jackson area by purchasing and redeveloping blighted properties. —Torsheta Jackson

Reid Hewitt

Reid Hewitt is passionate about criminal-justice reform. The topic became personal to the 17-year-old after a family member found themselves in and out of the prison system.

"I was wondering, 'It's not necessarily for violent crimes, so why does it continue to happen?' I started researching statistics and how many Black people make up the prison population in the United States," she says. "It really started to hit me the more research that I did."

Hewitt's research revealed that Blacks were disproportionately arrested and jailed in comparison to other races.

She and a classmate produced a mini-documentary titled "Mass Incarceration" for their Advanced Placement Language and Composition class. They submitted the piece, which focused on mass incarceration, as an entry in the CSPAN's StudentCam Competition. Hewitt also recently submitted an essay on the relationship between equality and justice for the Bill of Rights Institute's "We the Students'' essay contest and hosted a podcast discussing identity and race.

The Madison Central High School junior is a member and officer of numerous student organizations and serves as teen president for the Jackson, Miss., chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. Hewitt maintains a 4.02 GPA while enrolling in advanced-placement and dual-credit courses. She plans to attend an HBCU and major in business finance before moving on to law school. She hopes to one day work as a sports and entertainment lawyer.

Hewitt hopes her work shines a light on the injustices and inequalities in the criminal-justice system.

"I plan to take everything that I learned and created from my documentary and all the research that I've collected and really put that into action. I plan to use the positions that I am in and the roles that I will be in in the future to create some type of real change." —Torsheta Jackson

Joseph Anthony

Since his early elementary school years, Joseph Anthony's parents instilled in him the importance of education, which remains a priority to the Provine High School senior to this day. The National Honor Society at Powell Middle School inducted him into their ranks, and he earned the title of salutatorian during eighth grade. Now in his final year of high school, Anthony boasts a perfect GPA.

In addition to academic performance, Anthony engages in extracurricular activities as well, playing the tuba as a head section leader in Provine's marching and concert band while also serving on the school's soccer and track teams. "This academic year (has been) totally different with the schools going virtual, but I managed alongside God. I prayed that He keep me focused so that I could stay on track," he says.

His relationships with his classmates earned him the title of Mr. Provine this year. "I was so elated that my peers thought enough of me to be one of the faces of the school, and I thank them for that," he says.

Anthony credits God for all of his accomplishments, such as his recent induction into the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. In his church, Anthony serves as a youth Sunday school secretary, assistant Sunday school financial secretary and youth Sunday school superintendent. His openness toward giving himself to God coincides with his philanthropic passions. "I love to help the homeless. Prior to the pandemic, my brother and I would regularly go feed the homeless. We would also go to Matt's House, a shelter for women and children where we'd clean and organize their pantry." —Mike McDonald

Jamarion Gipson

Jamarion Gipson sees himself as both a designer and an entrepreneur, creating graphic logos for businesses while simultaneously marketing his name. After a cousin's friend commissioned him to create designs for a business' break room, the Forest Hill High School junior began contemplating potential careers that would allow him to capitalize on his artistic gifts.

Initially, he pondered video-game design but reconsidered after learning more about the prerequisites for the field and deciding the path was not for him. Nevertheless, the possibility of seeing his creations displayed businesses' advertisements excites him. He considers Eastern media, particularly Nintendo, as inspiration for his artworks, including indie comics and animated television series.

"I continue to want to get better as an artist and for people to identify me," he says. He would like to expand his artistic repertoire so that he can also draw animals and landscapes.

When Forest Hill High School began teaching students through virtual means due to the pandemic, Gipson learned that he valued the human connection that comes with physical attendance at school. "I thought I liked to be alone but I also crave the human connection," he says.

The high-school junior stays busy in a variety of ways. For one, he is involved in musical theater, fostered by a love for Disney songs. In addition, he serves as a band manager for the school band—keeping music files, taking instrument inventory, cleaning the band hall, attending sporting events and preparing food before games. He also utilizes his managerial and leadership skills on the soccer team, building his interest in the sport, as well as in the classroom during group activities and with the honor society of which he is a member. —Mike McDonald

Amiracle Johnson

Amiracle Johnson's exposure to the sciences began in the JROTC program at Lanier High School. The subject appealed to her because she knew she could be a trailblazer in a male-dominated field. More specifically, she has considered career opportunities where a scientific mind could be put to greater utility. Factoring in a mom with high blood pressure and the public-health needs in the community, she landed on nursing.

Born and raised in Jackson and the youngest of five siblings, Johnson plans to be the first among them to serve in the military while also aspiring to attend a post-secondary institution to later enter the medical field. "I hope to build on the legacy of the veterans," Johnson remarks when explaining her desire to enlist in the first place. While part of the program, she strives to be a role model for her cousins, nieces and nephews—demonstrating that they can "do better" if they seek it, she says.

In addition to military-preparedness training, the JROTC program also introduced her to new people and ideas. "My oldest sister was a (JROTC) member, and I asked her about it," she says. "At school I met people from all over who created an open-mindedness in me. It's also helped me work on my attitude."

Johnson displays her leadership skills through class debates, participation on the drill team and as a student representative for the school who meets with the Jackson Public Schools administration to discuss certain topics. Looking forward, she hopes to see contention between peoples across the country improve. —Mike McDonald

Xenia Minton

Xenia Minton's senior year is almost finished, but she has been helping other seniors commemorate their final high-school milestones since she was a freshman, transforming her love for photography into a business that specializes in senior portraits. "More and more people heard about it," Minton recalls. "So it took off from there. I've done 25 or 30 sessions this year."

When she's not behind the camera, the St. Andrew's Episcopal School senior stays active on the cross-country team, serving as the team's captain for the duration of her senior season. "It was a lot to balance with my photography business, but I like staying busy," Minton says.

Despite her commitment to her extracurricular activities, Minton admits that her class schedule alone would have been enough to keep her occupied, as she's presently enrolled in AP Literature, Government and Chinese, the latter of which is near to her heart.

Minton, who was adopted from China as a baby, believes that her study of the language—which included a school-service trip a few years back—has helped her form an important connection to her heritage. "I'm Chinese-American, but I don't have Chinese family, so it was really cool to connect to my heritage in that way and be surrounded with people who look like me," she says.

The senior expected to do additional travelling once she completed her high-school career, remarking that she "never imagined that she would be staying in-state to go to college." A visit to the University of Mississippi, though, changed that vision, and Minton plans to move there this fall to major in integrated marketing and communications. "I don't think I saw it at first, but I truly do love Mississippi," Minton concludes. —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Cameron Lewis

Cameron Lewis has spent much of the past year advocating for his fellow students as a member of a unique group: the State Superintendent of Education Carey Wright's advisory board. "There's a bunch of kids from a lot of different schools (on the board)," Lewis says. "We talk about things we think the state school board could do better and what they could implement to make things better for us and the upcoming generations."

The high-school junior acknowledges that he's been "blessed and privileged" during his time as a student at Clinton High School, and he hopes that his time on the board will help grant other students those same opportunities. Two such instances of good fortune are Lewis's position as an outside back on the Arrow soccer team and his involvement in the Attache show choir, which is currently ranked number one in the nation. "Getting to be involved (in those activities) is something I cherish, and it's something that's shaped me as a high-school student," Lewis reflects.

He hopes to foster that love of music in college, though he says he also wants to study broadcast journalism. "I love watching the news," Lewis remarks, citing CNN as his favorite television news outlet. "So I would want to be a political analyst. I think—and this probably goes not just for analysts but for all media—we're the regular person's information. We play an important role in educating people and keeping them informed, whether the news is good or bad." —Taylor McKay Hathorn

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JFP StaffWed, 05 May 2021 14:22:17 -0500https://jacksonfreepress.com/news/2021/may/05/amazing-teens-2021/
‘The New Southern Belle’ Latrice Rogers Demonstrates that Mississippi can be Fertile Ground for Entrepreneurial Successhttps://jacksonfreepress.com/news/2021/mar/31/new-southern-belle-latrice-rogers-demonstrates-mis/

Latrice Rogers was always told that going to school to become an attorney or doctor would equate to success, so that's what she did. She graduated from Canton High School, enrolled at Jackson State University and obtained her bachelor's degree in biology in 2010. But Rogers, like many college graduates, struggled to find a job in her field after graduation.

After four long years of studying biology, she found herself working at Office Depot making $8 an hour. The Canton native couldn't wrap her mind around all the hard work she put into leaving her hometown and attending college only to ultimately end up making not even a dollar above minimum wage. It didn't make sense, she said.

"It was that moment where I was like, 'Something has to give.' Hair was always a fascination with me, doing makeup; I was just always into it. If you would have known me back in a day and saw me, the first thing you would have probably noticed was my hair," Rogers told the Jackson Free Press.

Rogers wouldn't be styling hair, though, but creating a hair extensions brand, Goddess Lengths Virgin Hair, that would ultimately make her a multimillionaire. She said she would wake up and go to sleep with hair on her mind, so she started researching different types of hair.

"I had little money, so I had to be careful what I buy and that's where research came in. I bought a few batches of hair, and my friend was a hairstylist, so she tested the hair out on her(self) and on me," the business mogul said.

Rogers and her friend tested the longevity of the hair, the shedding, the movement of the hair, which would ultimately help her determine whether the hair would be good quality or not. After various tests, she found the perfect hair and started selling it.

"I would be at Target, and I would literally have a line wrapped around the car with people walking to my car, ready to purchase hair. And I'm sitting in the car passing bundles out the window," Rogers remembered.

In 2013, Rogers went from making $75 a day to thousands of dollars a day. A year into her business, she made her first million, she said.

"It was at that moment where I knew it wasn't that hard of a choice, basically. I had to figure out which worked better, and my hobby at that time was what worked for me," Rogers said.

'Vending Machines and Hair Care'

After Goddess Lengths Virgin Hair started to take off, Latrice's next step was acquiring a storefront, an idea that a Target security guard gave her, she said. She moved into a small space off McWillie Drive for about $300 a month. Around this same time, she partnered with her alma mater, Jackson State University, to become a vendor for the school's student campus card.

"When you go to college, you really don't have any money, which is why the JSU supercard is so important. It's the only money that's accessible, and the thing about the campus cards is it's only certain vendors who take it," Rogers explained about the business move.

The partnership with the school was a really lucrative business that helped her grow to a bigger storefront on Northside Drive with a retail and salon side. And next came one of her most creative ventures, a hair vending machine, which was the brainchild of Rogers and her husband, Clifton Rogers.

The idea spawned from the need to provide customer service at any time—during a point when customers would call her phone at 2 a.m. or 3 a.m. to buy hair extensions, she said. She and her husband decided to put the vending machine in Northpark Mall, where the mall opens as early as 5 a.m. and closes as late as 11 p.m.

"The opening day of the vending machine, it was like hundreds of people lined up. The guy that was over the mall had to call in security guards. Of course, at this point, I'm thinking I'm about to get put out of the mall," Rogers said.

"He was turning red in the face because he'd never seen anything like that. When Jordans come out, you know how their line is, but my line was a lot longer than the Jordan line," she said.

The head of the mall recorded the event and called her into his office. He had sent the recording to the CFO of the mall and they were so amazed by the turnout that they offered her the opportunity to put her vending machines in other malls. She now has her hair vending machines in Mississippi and Tennessee, she said.

"A lot of people look at selling hair and think it is a hobby. You're not the traditional lawyer, doctor or nurse. But it's so much that goes into the backend of actually making a successful business and developing it into a multimillion dollar business," she said.

Recently, Rogers expanded her brand past hair extensions with the launch of her haircare line, Esensual Beauty. The line includes shampoo, conditioner, hair-care serum, edge tamer and hair masks with other products still developing, the businesswoman said.

Weaves are Rogers' go-to hairstyle, but she wasn't really taking care of her hair, which would result in little patches in her head, she said. She used her science degree and began mixing different chemical-free, organic ingredients that helped to grow her hair back stronger and healthier.

"I gave them to my mom (and) my sisters, and they're telling me how amazing these products are. They said, 'hey you need to market and sell them.' Everybody, of course, needs hair maintenance, so it came from that notion—taking care of your hair underneath your protective styles," Rogers added.

Since the hair-care line's launch, consumers from across the country have been buying her products. Currently, she's working with a major retail store to get her products in stores, hopefully by the middle of 2021.

"I'm just thankful that people believe in me, and they trust my word. That just goes to show, reputation takes you a long way and just doing right by people, providing great service and great products. It makes a difference," Rogers said.

'The New Southern Belles'

Her continued success has now led to Latrice Rogers' world debut on the Oprah Winfrey Network's new reality show, "The Belle Collective." The series follows "the personal and professional lives of five successful, glamorous boss women who are redefining what it means to be a southern belle in Jackson, Miss.," a press release reads. Cast members include Rogers, Antoinette Liles, Tambra Cherie, Lateshia Pearson and Marie Hamilton-Abston.

Rogers said it took a lot of convincing from Jacoby Magee, who pitched the idea to Carlos King, for her to join the show. Reality television comes with a lot of exposure. Being a private person, she found herself hesitant to let the world in, she explained.

"You may know my business but not even know my face because I feel like I don't have to be in the forefront as long as I'm providing a great product and great service. That's all that matters," she said.

Magee contacted Rogers' friend, who ultimately convinced her that she would be great for the show and that it would be a great opportunity to tell her story, Rogers explained.

After accepting the offer in 2019, Rogers began filming during the pandemic, she said. Everybody from film crew to cast were tested for COVID-19 three times a week, which allowed filming to proceed as normal and allowed the cast members to film without masks.

"I always thought that reality shows were fake until I actually started doing a reality show. With the one that we're doing, I know personally that everything I bring to the table is the real me—and I think for the most part with the other girls as well," Rogers said.

At first, the businesswoman would read reviews about the show, but she stopped to avoid any negativity in her life and small circle, she said.

"I try to steer away from the blogs because they don't personally know me. They know what they're seeing on TV. They kind of try to pick at your life, put their input and say what they think should have went on. You don't know me, so how can I get mad at your opinion?" Rogers said.

The show's title is interesting as the term "southern belles" has often referred to young, unmarried, southern, white women of upper socioeconomic classes. The term was born during the antebellum era, and their image was characterized by hoop skirts, corsets, pantalettes, wide-brimmed hats and gloves.

This style of dress was most notable in the premiere episode of "The Belle Collective," where some of the ladies dressed up in southern-belle attire for brunch. While Rogers is aware of the term's history, she defines herself differently.

"I definitely define myself as a strong, successful Black woman. I don't let titles dictate me. A lot of people look at women in the South (as) poised women or successful women. They're belles in the South, (and) I would say we're the new definition of a southern belle," she said.

Despite the drama within the show, the exposure has helped increase sales for her business, she said. The pandemic allowed her to become more strategic in how she markets and promotes her product since everyone is buying and watching from home, she said.

"You would think that people being quarantined in their home wouldn't care about beauty, hair, makeup or anything like that. But the year COVID hit was actually the most successful year of my business thus far," Rogers said.

Another element to being a part of this reality show is the exposure it brings to Jackson and the state of Mississippi. Rogers said Mississippi has it a lot harder than other states and that here you have to work twice as hard.

She knows people will see the state and think what they want, but she hopes the show changes their perspective.

"I want to definitely give off the image like we're not all country bumpkins. We're not uneducated. Mississippi is just so much more," Rogers said. "I think Carlos King picked a dynamic group of women to display what Jackson is, what Jackson is made of. We're like any other state. We work hard. We grind."

The show's season concluded two weeks ago and, based on her experience, Rogers said she is open to returning for another season.

"I think I'm better prepared now, and I know more of what to expect and how to finagle things when it comes to reality (TV). I have a story to tell, and I don't think that season one was enough time to tell the entire story.

"So I'll definitely sign up for season two," the Canton native said.

'Rooted in Mississippi'

In 2017, Rogers was awarded the U.S. Small Business Association Young Entrepreneur Award. After being nominated, she sent the requested information to the Small Business Association, who called her later the same day to congratulate her on her win.

"I was definitely one of those people who nothing right ever happened to. I actually cried because at that moment, it's like the people they're actually watching," she said. "My nieces come up to me and tell me like, 'Hey auntie, I'm so proud of you. I want to be like you when I grow up.' It was just another accolade."

Rogers' success shows that you don't have to leave home to be successful. She said she doesn't understand why people feel they have to go outside the state when they can practically go underground and become successful if they're consistent and tenacious, she explained.

"I'm rooted in Mississippi. I have deep family roots, and I do everything because of my family, which motivates me to go even harder. You don't have to leave Mississippi to become successful. I made my first million right here in Mississippi. I made several millions right here in Mississippi," Rogers said.

Although she may get a condo out of the state, there is nowhere else she would rather live than in Mississippi, paying her taxes and giving back to her community, the entrepreneur said.

"I just want little girls to look at me and see me as them. Be consistent and know that all things are possible. If this girl can do it, then so can they," Rogers said. "I want people to look at me and think, 'She was an amazing woman—a woman of God, a woman of giving, just a great spirit. One of the greatest.'

"That's what I want my legacy to be," Rogers added.

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Aliyah VealWed, 31 Mar 2021 11:08:45 -0500https://jacksonfreepress.com/news/2021/mar/31/new-southern-belle-latrice-rogers-demonstrates-mis/
Seeking Solutions to Illegal Dumping: Education, Citation, Actionhttps://jacksonfreepress.com/news/2021/mar/03/seeking-solutions-illegal-dumping-education-citati/

Jackson's DJ Finesse took to Facebook on Feb. 8 to complain about the illegal dumping behind his office on West Capitol Street. The popular 99 Jams DJ—his birth name is Chris Carr—did not hold back his language in rebuking the perpetrators in the post that got more than 100 reactions. The items he complained about included pieces of furniture, clothes and cardboard.

"To you sorry MF who too lazy and cheap to go spend $40 at the city dump and decides to dump on Capitol Street, I hope your transmission goes out," he wrote in apparent anger. "Now we have to clean up behind you...Just know to smile next time because I gotcha on all 16 cameras. SMH...Tag # and all...."

This reporter paid visits to the office and personally saw and took photographs of the trash dumped behind his office. Carr was not in the office during those visits and did not return calls or texts the Jackson Free Press sent for further comments.

Angelique Lee is only a few weeks into her time as Ward 2 Jackson City Councilwoman, and she and other volunteers have already embarked on four waste-disposal exercises, she told the Jackson Free Press. However, days before the most recent cleanup event in her ward on Feb. 6, she was already worried that it would be in vain.

Lee asked Public Works Director Charles Williams at the council meeting on Feb. 2 to provide fencing around a portion of the place where the cleanup was set to happen. "We're worried that after we clean up, they'll still continue to come in and dump," she said. "Is there any way that we can try to partition that area off?" She referred to the "100 Black Men area where a bridge is closed off, and people started using it as a dumping ground."

The councilwoman is not the only one worried if her efforts will go to waste with the continued practice of illegal dumping..

More Trucks or More Information?

Council President and Ward 6 Councilman Aaron Banks shares the same view.

"(Illegal dumping) poses a big problem in the city of Jackson," Councilman Banks acknowledged at the Feb. 2 council meeting. "As soon as we organize cleanups to pick it up, it's back out there (in) three or four days."

Solid Waste Division Manager Lakesha Weathers told the city council that apart from battling with incessant dumping, only one city trash truck is operational, with only one driver. (Contractor Waste Management has its own trucks for home waste pickup.) She disclosed this after Ward 5 Councilman Charles Tillman, council vice president, wondered aloud why he never sees City of Jackson trash trucks in his area to deal with dumping though "we purchased, at one time, three trash trucks."

"We have one operational; we have one operator, that's all we have currently," Weathers said. "We did at one time have four; we're down to two." She said one of the two went to the repair shop on Feb. 1 and that increasing the number of available trucks from two to three will cost thousands of dollars based on quotes she received to repair the third truck.

Tillman said the mayoral administration needs to purchase or lease more trucks to pick up the items illegally dumped. "It is debris everywhere, (and) we got to pick it up. Nobody's going to pick it up," he said. "That's one of the major issues—all this trash and dumping."

"My trucks run all day, every day, so we are picking it up. We're picking it up (on) request, as we see it, as our inspectors see it, we collect it, but unfortunately the residents or outside residents, by our assumption, are coming back and dumping again," Weathers said after she agreed with Tillman's assessment that the problem is significantly affecting the city.

Weathers suggested the need for an informational drive to change peoples' behavior because, she said, "It's not the problem with picking it up, it's keeping it off the ground."

Some people do not know the options available for debris disposal in the city, Weathers said, adding that she is working on an information campaign. She did not indicate when this will happen but believes that it will serve better than increasing the available trucks.

"I have been in talks with some council members about how we can develop a campaign moving forward to educate the public on how not to litter their city," Weathers said.

Banks, however, said that it is not enough to educate, because some people who know what to do, don't. "Education is one thing, but I think we have a problem with contractors that are doing work, residential work, mechanics that are doing work, getting tires, getting roof shingles, getting all that stuff and going on some lonely road, like Lakeshore, Forest Hill roads, in the middle of the night and dumping it instead of being responsible," he alleged.

Cameras and Crimes

Councilman Tillman suggested to Weathers that police could use cameras around the city to ascertain who is doing the dumping. She responded that she does not believe law enforcement is checking the cameras for offenders who are trashing the city.

"I think that (the Jackson Police Department is) more focused on the crime and not the illegal dumping," she responded. "Now, illegal dumping is a crime, but I think that they're more focused on the violent crimes outside of people disposing of things illegally."

Banks said, and Tillman agreed, that there is a need to set a standard of toughness on the crime of illegal dumping. Ward 4 Councilman and Mississippi District 66 Rep. De'Keither Stamps asked how many have been cited for illegal dumping in the city. "We see all these illegal dumping, we don't see a lot of the tickets being issued," he said.

"I don't want to go into too much detail, but it has been requested (from Jackson Police Department), and (they) simply stated that they cannot write tickets. What do you want us to do? How do you want us to address this?'" Weathers reported. "As far as I know, there are no tickets being written for littering or illegal dumping. I have no documents or any records showing where tickets or arrests have been made."

Weathers told the Jackson Free Press that she has hard evidence that those contracted for trash disposal come from outside Jackson to dump trash in the city. "Most of the time, it's contractors, people that have been hired to clean up properties, or maybe people that are in the remodeling business, and they load their trucks up, and they drive here, and they dump," she said. She did not provide that evidence to date.

Politics and Corruption of Dumping

A 2019 NBC report about illegal dumping described the criminal activity of those who collect money to dispose of rubbish and look for where to dump them, causing environmental degradation.

"Legitimate waste carriers charge their customers a fee of several hundred (dollars) for the removal of each ton of waste. Almost half of that fee is paid to a licensed transfer station that then sorts and disposes of the waste. But criminals are offering to take waste at lower prices and then dump it at farms, industrial sites or on estates," the report said. "They pocket the entire fee and leave landowners with hefty bills to remove the junk."

Research by David Naguib Pellow at the University of California, Santa Barbara, "The Politics of Illegal Dumping: An Environmental Justice Framework," found that illegal dumps disproportionately burdened communities of color and low-income neighborhoods.

He reported the political corruption of illegal dumping where one Christopher Joseph bribed some aldermen in Chicago to look the other way, paying $5,000 per month to one of them.

"Since the late 1980s, he was in the business of 'recycling' construction and demolition (C&D) waste and finding places to dump it at the lowest possible cost," Pellow wrote. "The vast majority of the waste Christopher was dumping originated from highway construction projects and remodeling firms across the mostly white North Side of the city and suburbs."

"John Christopher (dumped) his waste in working-class and low-income African American and Latino communities on Chicago's West Side, particularly Lawndale and Austin."

Weathers is convinced that a preponderance of illegal dumping is not by Jackson residents, telling this reporter that she informed the Jackson Police Department that her department's officials caught culprits from outside the country illegally dumping. She doesn't know what they did with the information.

The Jackson Free Press made repeated calls, left voice messages and sent emails to Jackson Police Department's Information Officer Sam Brown beginning Feb. 5, asking for information about enforcement against illegal dumping in the city. He had not responded nearly a month later at press time.

Weathers told the council that the City cannot provide dumpsters designed to hold waste for transfer to garbage trucks for people who want to clean up their neighborhoods and require that service.

"We have dumpsters that we can bring out, but unfortunately we don't have the operators right now to bring those dumpsters out," she said. "We're doing the best we can, (in) what we have, we are extremely limited." The manager later told the Jackson Free Press that the only dumpster truck operator the city had retired in January.

Rolling Up the Sleeves

More than 10 people gathered with Ward 2 Councilwoman Lee on Feb. 6 at Presto Lane in Jackson to pick up trash along the road. They received an unwelcome guest at 12:35 p.m. as it started raining, but no one tried to seek shelter. Fortunately, it only lasted a few minutes before the sky cleared on that 42-degree day.

Volunteers started meeting at the rendezvous spot at Callaway High School on Beasley Road by 11:30 a.m. that day, and Lee welcomed participants and handed each a yellow vest and trash picker if they did not bring them.

The clean-up effort has been a recurring part of her agenda, which has covered various parts of Ward 2 since her election to the city council in December, Lee told the Jackson Free Press.

Merrimack chemical vendor Roland Powell came from south Jackson to join in the effort on Feb. 6. "Jackson is too beautiful of a place and too nice of a city to keep the streets looking like this," he said. "I know the city doesn't have the resources right now to really keep up with the trash clean-up, so we do this (about once a quarter) in south Jackson."

Green Elementary School Principal Terrance Hill sees his involvement in the cleanup as a statement of his commitment to the Ward where his school is located. "When (Lee) posted (on social media) that she will be kind of spearheading this clean up, I just said I'll be here," he said. "I'll do anything I can to kind of help and support this community."

Some City of Jackson workers were there to assist with the clean-up. "Everybody knows that the city of Jackson has an illegal dumping problem," City solid waste inspector Ellis Knight told the Jackson Free Press. "What we need to do is start getting (the) police to start enforcing more rules on illegal dumping, and I think that our city will be back to where it was."

"We know that we have a shortage of police, so we really cannot just blame police officers," he later added. "But if we are members of the community, start working together and stop your friends from illegal dumping, going down the street, dropping stuff out the window, I think (with) that we'll see a change."

The Cost of Waste Disposal

The City of Jackson pays Waste Management $9.27 per residential unit per month to pick up trash from people's houses all over the city, based on the terms of the contract the Jackson Free Press obtained. The same company has a waste-disposal contract at $25 per ton.

Waste Management promised to provide 30-cubic yard "roll-off" containers for each ward for free on one day per month, but the City has to station its staff there to monitor people bringing trash. Weathers told the Jackson Free Press that her office could not station staff there because they are short. So that full exercise stopped happening. Instead of seven locations per month, the City operates roll-off dumpster days at one location in the city per month.

Knight explained that the people and contractors have another option as well. "I think they should go to the city of Jackson landfill in Byram," he said. "I don't know if people know it; it's on (6810 Interstate-55 South) Frontage Road in Byram. You can (dispose) everything that you need to (dispose) there." Weathers told the Jackson Free Press that single-axle-trailer-load costs $25 for disposal, with additional rates available through her office.

The inspector said that the solid waste division of the city does curbside pickups. "If you've got bulky items or tires, you call 601-960-1193, the solid waste division, and they'll put it on the list board to be picked up." This service charges a fee based on the size of the trash.

The city offers curbside pickup of tires for free on Wednesdays, Knight added. "You've got a call 601-960-1193 and get put on the list and then we will come pick them up for free, up to five tires."

Illegal Dumping is Problematic

The Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality described illegal dumping as a problematic issue that local and state governments must address continually.

"Most commonly, people choose to illegally dump because they do not want to pay for disposal or because local disposal options do not appear to be available or convenient," it said on its website. "Often illegal dumping occurs on unsecured vacant lots, lots with abandoned buildings, remote spaces, dead-end roads, tree plantation lands, and forested areas, alleys and remote roads, outskirts of cities, poorly lit areas, open sand and gravel mines, down ravines and gulleys, and in other similar un-secure areas."

MDEQ advocates early reporting and resolution for illegal dumping so that the problem does not continue to escalate.

Illegal dumping comes with economic and environmental costs, the head of MDEQ told the Jackson Free Press." Hazardous and non-hazardous waste, we manage and regulate very carefully because when those things are disposed of in ways that don't comply with the regulations, it poses an environmental risk," Executive Director Chris Wells said in an interview.

"So if you have an illegal dump (into) a ravine or onto property somewhere when that is exposed to the elements, not contained in any way when rain falls on it, it picks up contaminants, and when that stormwater runs off, it carries those pollutants, those contaminants with it."

Wells said proper disposal of solid waste in designated landfills with adequate containment is essential. Also, illegal dumping constitutes an eyesore and attracts an additional cleaning cost, deterring property investment.

"Any kind of economic development can be deterred or stymied when there's illegal dumping because anybody that buys that property becomes liable for cleaning that up," Wells said.

Dumping, Crime and Development

Amory Anne Brandt's master's thesis at San Jose State University, "Illegal Dumping as an Indicator for Community Social Disorganization and Crime," drew a link between illegal dumping and crime.

"Not only does illegal dumping contribute to physical disorganization, but it is associated with higher crime rates," she wrote. "The positive relationship between dumping and crime suggests that communities with more illegal dumping also experience higher rates of crime."

"This finding suggests that illegal dumping could not only serve as a predictor for social disorganization, but also for crime," she added. "Cleaning up illegal dumping itself may not directly influence crime or social disorganization, but monitoring it could serve as an important predictor for community health."

The worse a neighborhood looks, the more crime it tends to suffer, the Heritage Foundation argues. "When residents take the simple step of cleaning their neighborhood, it tells criminals that the residents care about their community and thus are more likely to report criminal behavior. Where conscientiously applied, a clean-up strategy cuts crime," the foundation said in a report titled, "An Empowerment Strategy For Eliminating Neighborhood Crime."

Researchers John E. Eck and William Spelman found that Briarfield Apartments in Newport News, Va., suffered a high crime rate before city agencies carted trash away, removed abandoned cars, filled potholes and swept the streets. The result was a 35% decrease in the burglary rate.

In the Amani neighborhood in Milwaukee, Wis., residents complained of the trash-can treatment they say they are experiencing because of incessant illegal dumping. "(The city) might come and get it today, but somebody else is going to come and dump in three days, so it doesn't seem like the problem ever really goes away," Amani United neighborhood group president Jeramie Rice Bey told Milwaukee Journal Sentinel last year.

Amani is a struggling neighborhood with various problems, ranging from food deserts to foreclosed homes to entrenched poverty, and illegal dumping makes things worse, the newspaper reported. It also mentioned how other cities are dealing with illegal dumping, including increasing fine for repeated offenders, putting up cameras, hiring full-time officers to enforce illegal dumping laws.

Solutions Across America

The Milwaukee Department of Neighborhood Services set up an online form and phone app for reporting illegal dumping. Still, community leader Denisha Tate-McAlister objected to that initiative, saying that the people should not have to be responsible for catching perpetrators, and authorities can say that they are the culprits if they cannot prove otherwise.

California's Almeda County developed a multifaceted plan in 2019 to tackle illegal dumping. After one year of implementation of the pilot plan in two illegal dumping hotspots in East Oakland area of the county, "[b]ased on the perceptions of community members, satisfaction with the City and County's efforts to address illegal dumping increased by 11 points," the report said.

The county believes that the success of its three-pronged effort—education, eradication and enforcement—was due to enforcement of existing laws, using camera-based enforcement strategies, reducing barriers to eradication, embracing cross-sector partnerships, and community organizing as key to sustainability and crime prevention through environmental design. The report suggested that streets with little foot traffic and poor lighting at night encourage illegal dumping activity.

"Past efforts to curb illegal dumping include planting trees, placing concrete barriers and planter boxes to block illegal dumping spots, but without a consistent enforcement effort by the City, these efforts have had a minimal impact on the overall quality of the street and the surrounding neighborhood," it explained.

"Partnership with law enforcement was effective (in) reducing dumping and blight. Without law enforcement participation, our efforts amounted to a free garbage service to illegal dumpers."

The report indicated that having bushes cleared and planting trees will discourage littering, "prevent future dumping and provide a healthier environment that discourage(s) dumping" because "visual cues of deterioration attract other crimes."

"Removing the weeds will help with the visual cues creating a clear and open space that will make illegal dumpers hesitate to dump," it said. "(A) side of the street, lacking any private property owners to care for it for nearly a mile, sat neglected—attracting a constant flow of illegal dumping."

It said that depending on citizens reporting to curb illegal dumping will lead to the neglect of areas not frequently visited.

'It Was a Hot Mess'

Comments on the post by DJ Finesse included people expressing how incredible they found the problem. Shady Oaks Homeowners and Community Neighborhood Association President Sirena Wilson shared a picture of illegal dumping similar to what DJ Finesse experienced as a comment on his post.

Wilson sent the Jackson Free Press other pictures of illegally dumped trash and furniture that she has to deal with as a neighborhood leader.

"It was cleaned up (at neighborhood cleanup exercises). We called the city to come out and pick it up; two weeks later, someone dumped it there again. It was a hot mess," she said about the picture she posted on Facebook.

She said catching the people involved in illegal dumping is a way to address the problem. "Right now, we're trying to identify those people that are illegally dumping, and we're trying to get with the community to see if they can watch out, to see if they're able to see (them)," she said.

"So we're trying to make sure that if we can get the citizens to look out for these cars (or) trucks, especially late at night," Wilson added. "If they see something, to say something."

Email story tips to city/county reporter Kayode Crown at kayode@jacksonfreepress.com.

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Kayode CrownWed, 03 Mar 2021 11:01:48 -0600https://jacksonfreepress.com/news/2021/mar/03/seeking-solutions-illegal-dumping-education-citati/
Best of Jackson 2021https://jacksonfreepress.com/news/2021/feb/04/best-jackson-2021/

We here at the Jackson Free Press like to keep our focus on local: local people, local business, local food—you get the idea. There's nothing to us more local than Best of Jackson. We're officially in our 19th annual award season. Here is who you voted as the best local people, places, food and more.

Best of Jackson 2021: People

Best of Jackson 2021: Community and Culture

Best of Jackson 2021: Nightlife and Music

Best of Jackson 2021: Food and Drink

Best of Jackson 2021: Urban Living

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JFP StaffThu, 04 Feb 2021 16:09:00 -0600https://jacksonfreepress.com/news/2021/feb/04/best-jackson-2021/
Best of Jackson 2021: Food and Drinkhttps://jacksonfreepress.com/news/2021/feb/03/best-jackson-2021-food/

Best Ethnic Market, Best Place for Healthy Food, Best Vegetarian Options: Aladdin Mediterranean Grocery; Aladdin Mediterranean Grill

(730 Lakeland Drive, 601-366-6033, aladdininjackson.com)

Aladdin Mediterranean Grill has been a staple in the metro since 2004. Many locals regard Aladdin's, located near Fondren, as Jackson's premier spot for Mediterranean food such as shawarma, gyros, baklava and others. The restaurant and Aladdin's Mediterranean Grocery next door are perennially on the Best of Jackson winners' list. This year, the two together top the lists for Best Ethnic Grocery, Best Vegetarian Options and Best Place to Eat Healthy Food.

"We mostly do everything from scratch, and we use lean meat and fresh ingredients," Yoseph Ali, the proprietor, says of Aladdin's healthy food preparation. "(For vegetarians), falafels are the big items, along with mixed vegetables and grape leaves. And, of course, all the dips we have are vegetarian friendly."

For those who are not familiar with Aladdin's or Mediterranean food in general, Ali suggests they try the chicken gyros or one of the combination plates including items such as lamb chops and shrimp.

Aladdin's did have to make adjustments because of the COVID-19 virus, but it is still open for dine-in service, albeit with a smaller number of tables, and the staff has worked to improve the curbside takeaway and delivery services.

Having the grocery store on the other side of the wall makes it easier for the restaurant to buy in bulk and pass on the savings to customers, Ali says. Some of the more popular items available at the grocery include dates, olives, tea, coffee, cheese, nan, chicken and more—some of which cannot be found at most other local grocers, as Aladdin's imports them from overseas, particularly the large medjool dates.

Aladdin's desserts have garnered a number of fans as well, with baklava topping the list as a local favorite. —Richard Coupe

Best Ethnic Market Finalists

Asian Market (901 Lakeland Place, Suite 6, Flowood; 769-572-7050; asianmarketflowood.com) / Carniceria Valdez (2275 Highway 80; 601-352-6300; 6520 Old Canton Road, Ridgeland; 601-899-6922) / Mr. Chen's (5465 Interstate 55 N., 601-978-1865, mrchensms.com) / Patel Brothers (1999 Highway 80, Suite 15, 601-353-6611, patelbros.com)

Best Place for Healthy Food Finalists

Aplos Simple Medierranean (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 174, 601-714-8989, eataplos.com) / Kale Me Crazy (1067 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite D, Ridgeland; 601-499-0459; ridgeland.kalemecrazy.net) / Mama Nature's Juice Bar (655 Lake Harbour Drive, Suite 400, Ridgeland; 601-499-4936; mamanatureswellness.com)

Best Vegetarian Options Finalists

BRAVO! Italian Restaurant & Bar (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 244, 601-982-8111, bravobuzz.com) / Cool Al's (4654 McWillie Drive, 601-291-1146, coolalsrestaurant.org) / Kale Me Crazy (1067 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite D, 601-499-0459, ridgeland.kalemecrazy.net) / Mind Body and Soul Foodz (201 Ring Road, Suite 10, Ridgeland, 769-251-1211, mindbodyandsoulfoodz.com)

Best Fried Chicken, Best Lunch Counter/Buffet, Best Soul Food: Mama Hamil's Southern Cookin' & BBQ

(480 Magnolia St., Madison, 601-856-4407, hamils.com)

Rising from its humble, log-cabin beginnings in 1977, Mama Hamil's now occupies the massive structure behind its original building, offering daily "blue plate specials," catering options and private event rooms.

Regardless of how customers choose to order the Madison restaurant's down-home southern cooking, Office Manager Bailey Lyles says the menu remains largely consistent. "Everything is handmade," Lyles remarks. "We do everything fresh every morning."

One of the eatery's freshest dishes is its popular fried chicken, which is hand-battered and fried throughout the day. "If it's out on the buffet, it's been cooked within 10 minutes," Lyles says of the signature poultry fare.

While the buffet is currently unavailable due to COVID-19 protocols, Lyles notes that customers' preferences are taken into account at every turn. "We haven't made it over 50% capacity," the office manager says. "Our customers are our top priority right now."

Although the restaurant's seating is limited, its menu is not, as it features items such as macaroni and cheese, chicken and dumplings, peach cobbler and barbecue on the daily menu. For the cautious patrons who are not yet dining in, Mama Hamil's offers the same traditional favorites through online orders that can be picked up between 10:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. each day.

Larger groups can choose delivery options, as the restaurant provides catered meals with a choice of two meats, three sides, a bread, a dessert and a beverage.

No matter how customers prefer to order, Mama Hamil's has resumed normal hours and are now once again open for both lunch and dinner. —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Best Fried Chicken Finalists

Dumbo's on Duling (3100 N. State St., Suite 102, 601-336-3600, dumbosjackson.com) / The Gathering at Livingston (106 Livingston Church Road, Flora, 601-667-4282, livingstonmercantile.com) / Georgia Blue (202 Baptist Drive, Madison; 601-898-3330; 223 Ridge Way, Flowood; 601-919-1900, georgiablue.net) / Primos Cafe (2323 Lakeland Drive, Flowood; 601-936-3398; 515 Lake Harbour Drive, Ridgeland; 601-898-3600; 201 Baptist Drive, Madison; 601-853-3350; primoscafe.com) / Rooster's (2906 N. State St., 601-982-2001, eatroosters.com)

Best Lunch Counter/Buffet Finalists

Brent's Drugs (655 Duling Ave., 601-366-3427, brentsdrugs.com) / Grant's Kitchen & Grill (3820 Flowood Drive, Flowood, 601-665-4764, grantskitchen.com) / Ichiban Chinese Buffet (153 Ridge Way, Flowood, 601-919-0097; 3 Mac and Bones Blvd., Pearl, 769-208-2688; ichibangrillms.com) / Mama's Eats-N-Sweets (2017 Boling St., 601-713-0550, facebook.com/mamaseats) / McClain Resort (874 Holly Bush Road, Brandon, 601-829-1101, mcclain.ms)

Best Soul Food Finalists

Bully's Restaurant (3118 Livingston Road, Suite 6103, 601-362-0484, facebook.com/Bullys-Restaurant) / Godfrey's (2460 Terry Road, 601-398-3602) / Josephine's Kitchen (4638 Hanging Moss Road, 769-572-4276, josephineskitchenms.com) / Sugar's Place (168 E. Griffith St., 601-352-2364, facebook.com/Sugars-Place-Downtown) / Sweetie Pies (110 E. South St., 769-524-4843, facebook.com/sweetiepiesofficial)

Best Barbecue, Best Outdoor Dining: The Pig & Pint

(3139 N. State St., 601-326-6070, pigandpint.com)

The strings of lights that adorn Fondren's popular barbecue restaurant create an inviting atmosphere for outdoor diners, as open-air picnic tables provide plenty of room for gatherings with family and friends. Prior to COVID, the restaurant also offered outdoor games like Jenga to add to the dining experience.

Smoked favorites include the Pepsi-Cola-glazed baby back ribs or the pulled-pork barbecue nachos, topped with peppers, queso and pickled onions. Barbecue fans who prefer to eat at home have a section of the menu dedicated specifically to them, as takeout options can feed anywhere from two to six people, with the "P&P 6-Pack" featuring two pounds of pulled pork and half a dozen brioche buns in addition to baked beans, comeback coleslaw and potato salad.

Diners can wash down these full-course southern meals with the more traditional sweet tea or by sampling Pig and Pint's selection of draft, canned and bottled beers, and any meal can be capped with the establishment's signature desserts: bananas foster bread pudding and white chocolate and cranberry bread pudding. —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Best Barbecue Finalists

E & L Barbeque (1111 Bailey Ave., 601-355-5035, facebook.com/EandLBBQ) / Hickory Pit (1491 Canton Mart Road, 601-956-7079, facebook.com/Hickory-Pit) / Jefferson's Grill Restaurant & Catering (5612 Old Canton Road, 601-863-5227, facebook.com/Jeffersons-Grill-Restaurant-Catering) / Little Willie's BBQ (115 Village Square Drive, Suite G, Brandon, 601-992-6328; 5419 Highway 25, Suite L, Flowood, 769-572-4238; 3015 Highway 80, Pearl, 601-397-6698; littlewilliesbarbeque.com) / Sylvester's Mississippi Style BBQ (9434 Highway 18, Raymond, 601-346-8000, facebook.com/SylvestersMississippiStyleBBQ)

Best Outdoor Dining Finalists

Elvie's (809 Manship St., 601-863—8828, elviesrestaurant.com) / Library Lounge at Fairview Inn (734 Fairview St., 601-948-3429, fairviewinn.com) / The Manship Wood Fired Kitchen (1200 N. State St., Suite 100, 601-398-4562, themanshipjackson.com) / The Rooftop Bar at Old Capitol Inn (226 N. State St., 601-359-9000, oldcapitolinn.com) / Sophomore Spanish Club (200 District Blvd. E., 601-203-3333, sophomorespanish.com)

Best Beer Selection (Restaurant), Best Place to Watch the Game: The Bulldog

(6111 Ridgewood Road, 601-978-3502, bulldog-jackson.draftfreak.com)

With exactly 50 beers available on tap, The Bulldog serves as a favorite haunt for locals aiming to watch NFL and college football, and for general manager Brittany Hutchins, the secret to the restaurant's success lies with the football fans themselves.

"They come in, and they know who'll be there," Hutchins says. "Half the time, they've already ordered their beer for them. It's like a family." The manager also credits The Bulldog's servers and bartenders for fostering an atmosphere that keeps sports devotees coming back week after week.

"One time, we were all down in the dumps because we thought (the customers) might not realize that we were open early, but out of nowhere, tons of Saints fans were there, cheering and watching the game," Hutchins recalls.

"We were passing out shots of Fireball. It was an awesome way to start the football season, and it was very memorable." She jokes that the restaurant has "about 150,000 TVs, so you can't go wrong there."

Besides libations, the restaurant offers a full dinner menu featuring original dishes such as crawfish banditos and Tex-Mex egg rolls with raspberry chipotle sauce. —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Best Beer Selection (Restaurant) Finalists

Fondren Public (2765 Old Canton Road, 769-216-2589, facebook.com/fondrenpublic) / Hops and Habanas (2771 Old Canton Road, 769-572-4631, hopsandhabanas.com) / Martin's Downtown (214 S. State St., 601-3354-9712, martinsdowntownjxn.com) / The Pig & Pint (3139 N. State St., 601-326-6070, pigandpint.com) / Saltine Restaurant (622 Duling Ave., Suite 201, 601-982-2899, saltinerestaurant.com)

Best Place to Watch the Game Finalists

4th and Goal Sports Cafe (5100 Interstate 55 N. Frontage Road, 769-208-8283, 4thgoal.com) / BB'S LIVE - Bonny Blair's (1149 Old Fannin Road, Brandon, 769-251-0692) / Capitol Grill (5050 Interstate 55 N., Suite F, 601-899-8845, capitolgrillofjackson.com) / Fondren Public (2765 Old Canton Road, 769-216-2589, facebook.com/fondrenpublic) / Last Call Sports Grill (1428 Old Square Road, 601-713-2700, lastcallsportsgrill.com) / Names and Faces Lounge (224 E. Capitol St., 601-955-5285)

Best Breakfast and Best Plate Lunch: Primos Cafe

(2323 Lakeland Drive, Flowood; 601-936-3398; 515 Lake Harbor Drive, Ridgeland; 601-898-3600; 201 Baptist Drive, Madison; 601-853-3350; primoscafe.com)

Primos Cafes, now with three locations, have been around since the 1920s and have a rich and storied tradition of serving food that keep Jacksonians coming back for more.

"That's why our business does so well. It reminds people of eating dinner at their mother's house," Kenya Parks, the director of operations for Primos Cafe, says.

The restaurant offers breakfast all day, and the menu ranges from the Primos Parfait—homemade granola served with Greek yogurt and fresh strawberries—to a more traditional southern breakfast featuring hash browns, biscuits, white sausage gravy and eggs anyway you want them.

On weekdays, Primos serves blue-plate specials. Monday through Saturday, the specials include a rotating entree with two vegetable dishes—although patrons may instead opt for an all-vegetable plate featuring four or five vegetable dishes.

"(The blue-plate specials) are rotated out every two months, but there are staples that never change," Parks says.

"For instance, fried chicken, turkey and dressing, and chicken and dumplings—those are things that will always be part of our blue plates." Meanwhile, Fridays consistently mean U.S. farm-raised catfish, which many describe as the highlight of the week, Parks asserts.

Other menu items include sandwiches, wraps, burgers, catfish tacos, and baskets of chicken strips or Gulf-fried shrimp served with onion rings, regular fries or sweet potato fries.

For dessert, customers can look for Primos' three-layer cake, which comes in flavors such as caramel, Italian cream, carrot and many more.

Alternatively, they can choose slices of pie in flavors like lemon or pecan, or visit the bakery for cookies, fudge squares and other freshly baked goods that they can take home to enjoy later. —Richard Coupe

Best Breakfast Finalists

Brent's Drugs (655 Duling Ave., 601-366-3427, brentsdrugs.com) / Elvie's (809 Manship St., 601-863—8828, elviesrestaurant.com) / Jo's Diner (241 Ridge Way, Flowood, 601—988-9000, josdiner.net) / The Manship Wood Fired Kitchen (1200 N. State St., Suite 100, 601-398-4562, themanshipjackson.com) / Sugar's Place (168 E. Griffith St., 601-352-2364)

Best Plate Lunch Finalists

George's Museum Cafe (Mississippi Agriculture & Forestry Museum, 1150 Lakeland Drive, 601-981-1465, georges-museum-cafe.edan.io) / Georgia Blue (202 Baptist Drive, Madison, 601-898-3330; 223 Ridge Way, Flowood, 601-919-1900; georgiablue.net) / Saltine Restaurant (622 Duling Ave., Suite 201, 601-982-2899, saltinerestaurant.com) / Taste of the Island (436 E. Capitol St., 601-360-5900) / Trace Grill (574F Highway 51 N., Ridgeland, 601-853-1014, thetracegrill.com)

Best Restaurant, Best Brunch: The Iron Horse Grill

(320 W. Pearl St., 601-398-0151, theironhorsegrill.com)

Given the effort that The Iron Horse Grill puts in its Sunday mid-morning meals, it's no wonder that the restaurant led the Best Brunch category of this year's Best of Jackson results.

During Sunday brunch, chefs operate stations where they prepare waffles with toppings such as maple syrup, blueberries, strawberries, cherries, pecans, cinnamon, powdered sugar or whipped cream, as well as omelets with familiar breakfast trimmings like bacon, sausage, ham, cheese, bell peppers, green onions or mushrooms and more adventurous fillings like crabmeat and crawfish.

Additionally, Iron Horse offers bottomless mimosas and the smooth sounds of local jazz legend Tiger Rogers on the saxophone, creating an atmosphere that keeps customers coming back week after week.

Outside of brunch, Iron Horse presents its signature flavors every other day of the week as well, offering a vast menu of appetizers, fajitas, burgers, sandwiches, salads, desserts and many other specialties. Those looking to listen to live music as they dine can browse Iron Horse's website to see which artists are scheduled to perform in the weeks ahead.

Iron Horse also caters, allows customers to book private events and hosts the Mississippi Music Experience, an educational tour for students that explores the state's rich history of music and art. —Torsheta Jackson

Best Brunch Finalists

Elvie's (809 Manship St., 601-863—8828, elviesrestaurant.com) / The Manship Wood Fired Kitchen (1200 N. State St., Suite 100, 601-398-4562, themanshipjackson.com) / Primos Cafe (2323 Lakeland Drive, Flowood; 601-936-3398; 515 Lake Harbor Drive, Ridgeland; 601-898-3600; 201 Baptist Drive, Madison; 601-853-3350; primoscafe.com) / Saltine Restaurant (622 Duling Ave., Suite 201, 601-982-2899, saltinerestaurant.com)

Best Restaurant Finalists

Elvie's (809 Manship St., 601-863-8828, Elviesrestaurant.com) / Ely's Restaurant & Bar (115 W. Jackson St., Suite 2E, Ridgeland, 601-605-6359, elysrestaurant.com) / Godfrey's (2460 Terry Road, 601-398-3602) / Local 463 (1000 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite 5002, Ridgeland; 601-707-7684; local463.com) / Walker's Drive In (3016 N. State St., 601-982-2633, walkersdrivein.com)

Best Greek or Mediterranean Restaurant; Best Hangover Food: Keifer's

(710 Poplar Blvd., 601-355-6825, keifers.net; 120 N. Congress St., 601-353-4976, keifersdowntown.com)

Established in 1980, Keifer's has become known by nearly anyone who has spent enough time in the metro. It opened a second location down in 1981 and later moved to its current location on Poplar Avenue in 2011.

The menu features an extensive list of gyros, salads, desserts, appetizers and more. One of its most popular items—and one that lends to the title of Best Hangover Food—is probably the cottage fries, which are slices of potato fried and served with feta dressing (now available for purchase in bottle form at the Belhaven location). Other items of note include the pita mozz or peta feta, which is pita grilled and served with feta sauce.

Both locations also have daily specials, such as a bacon cheeseburger, an often-effective means of easing the pain of a hangover. In warmer weather, both locations' outside seating has been ideal for social distancing.

Keifer's in Belhaven is open Sunday through Thursday from 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. The downtown location is open from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. —Amber Helsel

Best Greek or Mediterranean Restaurant Finalists

Aladdin Mediterranean Grill (730 Lakeland Drive, 601-366-6033, aladdininjackson.com) / Aplos Simple Mediterranean (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 174, 601-714-8989, eataplos.com) / Kismet's Restaurant (315 Crossgates Blvd., Brandon, 601-825-8380, facebook.com/kismet) / Krilakis (207 W. Jackson St., Suite D, Ridgeland; 601-790-9463; krilakis.com) / Yiayia's Greek Kitchen (587 Highway 51, Suite J, Ridgeland; 601-853-1110; yiayiasgreekkitchen.net)

Best Hangover Food Finalists

Brent's Drugs (655 Duling Ave., 601-366-3427, brentsdrugs.com) / Da Shak Grill (5752 Terry Road, Suite A1, Byram, 601-398-1765, da-shak-grill.edan.io) / Fenian's Pub (901 E. Fortification St., 601-948-0055, fenianspub.com) / Rooster's (2906 N. State St., Suite 104, 601-982-2001, eatroosters.com) / Santa Fe Grill & Bar (4924 Interstate 55 N., Suite 105, 769-216-3964, facebook.com/SantaFeJacksonMS)

Best Italian Food, Best Curbside Delivery: Amerigo Italian Restaurant

(6592 Old Canton Road, Ridgeland, 601-977-0563; 155 Market St., Flowood, 601-992-1550; amerigo.net)

Amerigo Italian Restaurant has been providing a taste of Italy to the Jackson community since the early 1980s, and their Ridgeland and Flowood locations are open for both lunch and dinner each day.

"We're committed to providing quality cuisine and service—while keeping our price point approachable," Director of Marketing Ali Gensert says of the restaurant's longstanding popularity with the Jackson community.

The variety of the restaurant's cuisine has kept Jacksonians coming back for decades, too, with customer favorites like smoked chicken ravioli, fettuccine imperial and pasta pomodoro highlighting the pasta menu and Prince Edward Island mussels and calamari fritti headlining the appetizer selection. Once the first two courses are cleared away, diners can sample sweeter tastes of Italy, with the restaurant offering tiramisu topped with creme anglaise and Kahlua-infused chocolate sauce.

These and other authentic dishes are also available for curbside pick-up, with Amerigo staff members on stand-by to bring takeout orders to customers who don't yet feel comfortable dining in.

"It's important for us to meet our guests' needs at all times," Gensert says of the practice. "Even if people aren't comfortable dining in, we still want to provide a nice meal for them. People want what's comfortable, and (our customers) know they can have a nice meal at Amerigo, even if it's served out of to-go boxes." —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Best Italian Food Finalists

BRAVO! Italian Restaurant & Bar (4500 Interstate 55 Frontage Road, Suite 244, 601-982-8111, bravobuzz.com) / Cerami's Italian Restaurant (5417 Lakeland Drive, Flowood, 601-919-2829, ceramisitalian.com) / Fratesi's (910 Lake Harbour Drive, Ridgeland, 601-956-2929, fratesisrestaurant.com) / Sal & Mookie's (565 Taylor St., 601-368-1919; 111 Colony Crossing Way, Suite 130, Madison, 601-499-1300; salandmookies.com)

Best Curbside Delivery Finalists

Aplos Simple Mediterranean (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 174, 601-714-8989, eataplos.com) / Babalu Tapas & Tacos (622 Duling Ave., 601-366-5757, eatbabalu.com) / Martin's at Midtown (1101 Belmont St., Vicksburg, 601-636-2353, martinsatmidtown.com) / The Pig & Pint (3139 N. State St., 601-326-6070, pigandpint.com) / Sal & Mookies (565 Taylor St.; 601-368-1919; 111 Colony Crossing Way, Suite 130, Madion; 601-499-1300; salandmookies.com) / Trace Grill (574 Highway 51, Suite F, Ridgeland; 601-853-1014; thetracegrill.com)

Best Fine Dining, Best Steak: Char Restaurant

(4500 Interstate 55 N., 601-956-9562, charrestaurant.com)

Char has been a popular choice for Jackson diners for years, but Marketing Director Ali Gensert believes that the company's people-oriented approach has kept customers coming back.

"One of the biggest things we have going for us is that we have been able to

celebrate with multiple generations of guests. It's a comfortable atmosphere for them—people came in with their parents, and now they're bringing their own families in," Gensert says.

Char's steaks have remained a popular menu item, as the Highland Village staple serves a range of cuts—filet mignons, New York strips and cowboy and standard ribeyes—topped with maitre d' butter. "We cook them to perfection as people order them," Gensert says of the beef selection.

Char's extensive menu also includes brunch, lunch and dinner options, with each meal featuring a curated wine and cocktail list. The private dining room can seat between 10 and 120 guests and features customized menu options, audio visual equipment and complimentary wireless internet. —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Best Fine Dining Finalists

Amerigo Italian Restaurant (6592 Old Canton Road, Ridgeland; 601-977-0563; 155 Market St., Flowood; 601-992-1550; amerigo.net) / Koestler Prime (1000 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite 6001, Ridgeland, 601-957-3753, koestlerprime.com) / The Manship Wood Fired Kitchen (1200 N. State St., Suite 100, 601-398-4562, themanshipjackson.com) / Shapley's Restaurant (868 Centre St., Ridgeland, 601-957-8000, mmshapleys.com) / Table 100 (100 Ridge Way, Flowood, 601-420-4202, tableonehundred.com) / Walker's Drive In ((3016 N. State St., 601-982-2633, walkersdrivein.com)

Best Steak Finalists

Ely's Restaurant & Bar (115 W. Jackson St., Suite 2E, Ridgeland, 601-605-6359, elysrestaurant.com) / Koestler Prime (1000 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite 6001, Ridgeland, 601-957-3753, koestlerprime.com) / Shapley's Restaurant (868 Centre St., Ridgeland, 601-957-8000, mmshapleys.com) / Tico's Steakhouse (1536 E. County Line Road, Ridgeland, 601-956-1030, ticossteakhouse.com) / Walker's Drive In (3016 N. State St., 601-982-2633, walkersdrivein.com)

Best Fries, Best Catering: Georgia Blue

(202 Baptist Drive, Madison; 601-898-3330; 223 Ridge Way, Flowood; 601-919-1900; georgiablue.net)

With locations in both Madison and Flowood, Georgia Blue's signature dishes present a metropolitan flair to down-home cooking, with plates such as turnip green bites and gyro nachos studding the menu. These staples are available for both guests who dine in and guests who take advantage of the restaurant's long-standing catering service.

"We want them to get the same menu and the same quality of service they'd get in a restaurant," proprietor Jason Burgardt says. The catering team works to fulfill this wish, as Burgardt notes that the staff tries to stay "a step or two ahead of every guest that calls."

The catering crew, which has remained largely consistent over the last seven years, isn't afraid to take on multiple gatherings at once. This comes in handy, as Burgardt notes that "word of mouth is (the restaurant's) best advertisement."

A favorite Georgia Blue creation for both catering events and indoor dining is the restaurant's original beer-battered curly wedge fries. "I haven't seen anyone else serve fries like ours," Burgardt says.

Although the fries were not on the business' original menu, they are now considered an essential feature by guests and management alike. "We've been serving these fries for six years now, and we've gotten a lot of good feedback from guests, so we've never gone back," Burgardt says. —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Best Fries Finalists

Aplos Simple Mediterranean (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 174, 601-714-8989, eataplos.com) / Elvie's (809 Manship St., 601-863—8828, elviesrestaurant.com) / Fine & Dandy (100 District Blvd., 601-202-5050, eatdandy.com) / The Manship Wood Fired Kitchen (1200 N. State St., Suite 100, 601-398-4562, themanshipjackson.com) / Rooster's (2906 N. State St., Suite 104, 601-982-2001, eatroosters.com) / Saltine Restaurant (622 Duling Ave., Suite 201, 601-982-2899, saltinerestaurant.com)

Best Caterer Finalists

4Top Catering (401 Fontaine Place, Suite 103, Ridgeland; 601-968-7575; 4topcatering.com) / Fresh Cut Catering & Floral (108 Cypress Cove, Flowood, 601-939-4518, freshcutcateringandfloral.com) / The Iron Horse Grill (320 W. Pearl St., 601-398-0151, theironhorsegrill.com) / Mangia Bene Catering (4465 Interstate 55 N., 601-362-2900, mangiabene-catering.com)

Best New Restaurant, Best New Addition: Dumbo's on Duling

(3100 N. State St., Suite 102, 601-336-3600, dumbosjackson.com)

Paul Adair, owner of Dumbo's on Duling, gave his restaurant the name that had once been his own. Dumbo, the name that his first-grade classmates at Boyd Elementary School bestowed on him, has since brought the Jackson native good fortune during his first year in business.

"(Our first year) has been a little strange because of COVID, but we have a small footprint, and the community has been really good to us," Adair says. He added that the good reviews and consistent crowds have been encouraging for the restaurant nestled in the heart of Fondren and opening its doors during a difficult year.

Like the rest of the eclectic community, the restaurant has a unique flair. "Our space is really cool," Adair says. "Ferriss and Company took my vision and ran with it, so the aesthetics are really neat."

Dumbo's on Duling seeks to convey its singularity through its menu, too, offering a range of cuisines at brunch, lunch and dinner. Adair remarks that many customers prefer to order small plates when they come in to drink, which has caused their "snack" menu—which features signature staples such as crispy crab wontons and deviled eggs—to flourish.

Adair praises his dedicated staff, whom he promises are "smiling beneath their masks," for serving these snacks that complement the business' popular cocktail program, which Adair describes as simply "badass." —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Best New Restaurant Finalists

Colony Bistro (121 Colony Crossing Way, Suite A, Madison; 601-707-4141; colonybistroms.com) / Da Shak Grill (5752 Terry Road, Suite A1, Byram; 601-398-1765; facebook.com/DaShakBarGill) / Elvie's (809 Manship St., 601-863-8828, Elviesrestaurant.com) / Sante Fe Grill & Bar (4924 Interstate 55 N. Frontage Road, Suite 105, 769-216-3464, facebook.com/SantaFeJacksonMS)

Best New Addition to Jackson Finalists

Coffee Prose - Highland Village (4500 Interstate 55 N. Frontage Road, Suite 173, 769-237-6153, coffeeprose.com) / Elvie's (809 Manship St., 601-863-8828, Elviesrestaurant.com) / Enchanting Memories Entertainment (662-590-2748, facebook.com/enchantingmemoriesentertainment) / Green Bean (100 E. Capitol St., Suite 106, 601-376-9317, greenbeanusa.com) / Kickin' Crab (6376 Ridgewood Court Drive, 601-665-4199, kickincrabms.com) / Mural On Old Capitol Inn (226 N. State St., 601-359-9000, oldcapitolinn.com)

Best Bakery: Campbell's Bakery

(3013 N. State St., 601-362-4628; 1121 N. Jefferson St., 601-292-7555; campbellsbakery.ms)

Campbell's Bakery may be one of the city's oldest of its kind, but owner Mitchell Moore has made the business over since his takeover in 2011. Before Moore, Campbell's Bakery had been open for 50 years in its original location. After Moore's takeover, he expanded to Madison in 2016—a location that unfortunately closed in 2020 amid the pandemic—and in 2019, he branched out and opened Campbell's Craft Donuts in Belhaven.

Campbell's has everything many would want in a bakery: cupcakes, petit fours, cookies, cakes, pies and custom cakes. The business even offers gluten-free treats like cupcakes and cookies. Drive a few blocks over to Campbell's Craft Donuts for a full menu complete with breakfast tacos, coffee and donuts nearly the size of your head. Both businesses have the ability to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Campbell's Bakery is open Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. —Amber Helsel

Finalists: Broad Street Baking Company (4465 Interstate 55 N., Suite 101, 601-362-2900, broadstbakery.com) / La Brioche Patisserie & Bistro (1200 Eastover Drive, 601-988-2299, labriochems.com) / The Prickly Hippie (500 Highway 51, Suite F, Ridgeland, 601-910-6730, pricklyhippie.com) / Primos Cafe (2323 Lakeland Drive, Flowood; 601-936-3398; 515 Lake Harbour Drive, Ridgeland; 601-898-3600; 201 Baptist Drive, Madison; 601-853-3350; primoscafe.com) / Sugar Magnolia Takery (5417 Highway 25, Flowood, 601-992-8110, sugarmagnoliatakery.com)

Best Beer Selection (Store): Hops and Habanas

(2771 Old Canton Road, 769-572-4631, hopsandhabanas.com)

Time and time again, Hops and Habanas has graced the pages of Best of Jackson for its prominent beer selection. This year, however, appears to be the last time the storefront will be in the running for this particular category, as the business has closed as of mid-January.

Rather than being another casualty of the COVID-19 pandemic, though, Rick and Trayce Miles shut down the store because they wanted to leave the retail business, having decided in 2019 to do so by 2021.

Unable to find a buyer for the Hops and Habanas business, the Miles duo instead ended up selling the building itself. Nevertheless, they remain grateful for the support they have received from the public over the years. "We certainly appreciate our customer and community support over the years and will miss the many friendships we have made along the way. We thank all our past and most recent employees who represented Hops and Habanas," Rick, who is already a full-time ER physician, says.

"We do feel regrets on leaving a big void in the beer and cigar retail sales area as well as the Jackson social and entertainment scene. But in the end, we were ready for a lifestyle change of our own and are looking forward to moving on." —Richard Coupe

Finalists: Barley's Beer Barn (1716 Highway 51, Suite E, Madison; 601-790-7901; facebook.com/BarleysBeerBarn) / Craft Beer Cellar (500 Highway 51, Ridgeland, 601-790-7474, ridgeland.craftbeercellar.com) / LD's BeerRun (5006 Parkway Drive, 769-208-8686, facebook.com/LDsBeerRun)

Best Oysters, Best Happy Hour: Saltine Restaurant

(622 Duling Ave., Suite 201, 601-982-2899, saltinerestaurant.com)

Saltine takes its name from the vessel of an oyster, paying homage to its oyster bar as one of its most prominent features. "It's our specialty and one of our top-selling items," Marketing Director Ali Gensert says. The Fondren staple sources oysters from a variety of locations in its quest to provide the freshest options for Jackson seafood connoisseurs.

The restaurant prepares the oysters in a variety of ways, with customer favorites including Bama BBQ served with white barbecue sauce and Oysters Lafitte garnished with crawfish tails, bacon, parmesan and the restaurant's signature hot sauce butter.

Diners can also try oysters on the half-shell, which are only $1 each during the Duling Street fixture's happy hour, which occurs daily from 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. "We also offer half-off draft beers, wines and cocktails," Gensert says of the daily special.

Some of these half-priced libations include "Admiral Nelson's Revenge," a heady blend of spiced rum and peach schnapps; "Eye of the Storm," a patron reposado garnished with jalapeno syrup; and "Marlin Monroe," a sparkling beverage mixed with muddled strawberry and spiked with Tito's vodka.

The draft beers on tap during these daily sales are varied, ranging from domestic lagers such as Michelob Ultra to sours like the Mississippi-brewed Blackberry Sour. —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Best Oysters Finalists

CAET Seafood and Oysterette (1000 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite 9015, Ridgeland; 601-321-9169; caetseafood.com) / Drago's Seafood Restaurant (1005 E. County Line Road, 601-957-1515, dragosjackson.com) / Elvie's (809 Manship St., 601-863-8828, Elviesrestaurant.com) / Shucker's Oyster Bar (116 Conestoga Road, Ridgeland, 601-853-0105, shuckersontherez.com)

Best Happy Hour Finalists

4th Avenue Lounge (209 S. Lamar St., 601-259-5825, 4thavenuejxn.com) / BB'S LIVE - Bonny Blair's (1149 Old Fannin Road, Brandon, 769-251-0692) / Last Call Sports Grill (1428 Old Square Road, 601-713-2700, lastcallsportsgrill.com) / The Manship Wood Fired Kitchen (1200 N. State St., Suite 100, 601-398-4562, themanshipjackson.com) / Names and Faces Lounge (224 E. Capitol St., 601-955-5285, facebook.com/namesandfaceslounge) / Shucker's Oyster Bar (116 Conestoga Road, Ridgeland, 601-853-0105, shuckersontherez.com)

Best Place for Coffee, Best Geek Hangout: Cups Espresso Cafe

(multiple locations, cupsespressocafe.com)

With nine locations around the metro Jackson area, Cups Espresso Cafe aims to serve quality, locally roasted, internationally sourced coffee in an atmosphere where people can experience community. Angela Cottrell, director of marketing, emphasizes that Cups has a cup of coffee for everyone, as customers may choose from a wide assortment of flavored drip coffees, artisan cappuccinos and many more options.

The "very first ingredient," Cottrell emphasizes, comes from the beans that are roasted in Ridgeland and available for brewing within 24 hours.

Janice and Dennis Cameron opened the first Cups in Fondren in 1993. "She wanted to use Cups to promote local artists and creatives, and provide a place for people to come together," Cottrell says.

During the pandemic, each location remained open, offering curbside pick-up for customers and implementing social distancing and heightened cleaning practices to keep customers as safe as they could, all while maintaining that community atmosphere.

Cups has always offered free Wi-Fi for customers, a convenient feature for students, remote workers and geeks alike. Looking ahead, Cups plans to debut a new Tanzanian flavored coffee and bring back the Chocolate Spirit flavor under the name Chocolua, with 20% of the proceeds benefiting Stewpot Community Services. —Kyle Hamrick

Best Place for Coffee Finalists

The Bean (2914 N. State St., 769-572-5752, facebook.com/thebeanjxn) / Coffee Prose (1619 N. West St., 769-208-0230; 4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 173, 769-237-6153; coffeeprose.com) / Fusion Coffeehouse (1111A Highland Colony Parkway, Ridgeland, 601-856-6001, fusioncoffeehouse.com) / Mocha Mugs (1800 W. Government St., Brandon, 601-825-1006; 119 Grandview Blvd., Madison, 601-605-0160; 5610 Lakeland Drive, Flowood, 601-919-3684; mochamugs.com) / The Prickly Hippie (500 Highway 51, Suite F, Ridgeland; 601-910-6730; pricklyhippie.com) / Urban Foxes (826 North St., 769-572-5505, urbanfoxesjxn.com)

Best Geek Hangout Finalists

Herbal Blessings (614 N. Farish St., 769-216-3450, herbalblessings601.com) / OffBeat (151 Wesley Ave., 601-376-9404, offbeatjxn.com) / Urban Foxes (826 North St., 769-572-5505, urbanfoxesjxn.com) / Van's Comics, Cards & Games (731 S. Pear Orchard Road, Suite 1, Ridgeland, 601-898-9950, vansccg.com) / The Warp Zone Arcade (393 Crossgates Blvd., Suite C, Brandon; 601-706-4764, facebook.com/TheWarpZoneArcade)

Best Burger: Stamps Super Burgers

(1801 Dalton St., 601-352-4555, super-burgers.business.site)

Stamps Super Burgers, located in a residential area just south of Jackson State University, remains a perennial winner of the Best Burger in the Best of Jackson series. The institution originally began as a family-run grocery store and meat market in the 1970s, and legend has it that the owner of the store, Al Stamps, wanted a burger one Sunday afternoon in the early 1980s and headed up to the store to make it himself, thus beginning a dynasty that has continued for decades.

The Super Burger sold for $1.65 in 1982, and while the fan-favorite costs a little more now, Best of Jackson results demonstrate that patrons consider the burger to be worth the price. The Stamps family's drive for excellence has resulted in a burger legend and a destination for Jacksonians and visitors alike. Stamps also offers turkey burgers, chicken sandwiches, chicken wings, fries, salads and other dishes. —Richard Coupe

Finalists: Burgers Blues Barbecue (168 W. Government St., Brandon, 601-829-2500, burgersblues.com) / Cool Al's (4654 McWillie Drive, 601-291-1146, coolalsrestaurant.org) / Lou's Full-Serv (904B E. Fortification St., 601-487-6359, lousfullserv.com) / Rooster's (2906 N. State St., Suite 104, 601-982-2001, eatroosters.com)

Best Chicken Sandwich: Rooster's

(2906 N. State St., Suite 104, 601-982-2001, eatroosters.com)

As versatile as it is popular, Rooster's chicken sandwich allows customers to choose a more traditional grilled or fried chicken sandwich, a chicken club, a chicken mushroom swiss or a chicken jalapeno to whet their taste for poultry, all between freshly baked buns made daily.

Customers can pair their sandwiches with signature southern sides such as curly fries, onion rings, red beans and rice, and mac and cheese, or with desserts like banana pudding, garnished with sliced bananas and vanilla wafers.

Rooster's encourages patrons to share photos of these dishes on social media with the hashtag #JXNCKN, and the tag's gallery makes for perfect menu browsing. —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Finalists: Barrelhouse (3009 N. State St., 769-216-3167, barrelhousems.com) / Burgers Blues Barbecue (168 W. Government St., Brandon, 601-829-2500, burgersblues.com) / Dumbo's on Duling (3100 N. State St., Suite 102, 601-336-3600, dumbosjackson.com) / Fine & Dandy (100 District Blvd. E., 601-202-5050, eatdandy.com) / Josephine's Kitchen (4638 Hanging Moss Road, 769-572-4276, josephineskitchenms.com) / Lou's Full-Serv (904B E. Fortification St., 601-487-6359, lousfullserv.com)

Best Gumbo: Gumbo Girl

(900 E. County Line Road, Suite 107, Ridgeland; 601-790-0486; gumbogirl.com)

Marilyn Kithuka, 49, otherwise known as the "Gumbo Girl," has a bowl of gumbo for anybody and everybody, regardless of dietary restrictions or allergies.

Kithuka builds her gumbo on "a dark brown, rich, thick roux," she says, adding that her dishes are hearty as well. "In every spoon that you pick up, you're gonna get meat," the chef adds.

Born and raised in Jackson, Kithuka started cooking gumbo 20 years ago for her family and friends. After catering for a few years, she opened her first location off Highway 18 in 2015. In January 2020, Kithuka opened her current location in Ridgeland.

She credits her husband, James, for encouraging her to pursue her passion for cooking. "He was the key to me becoming Gumbo Girl," Kithuka said.

While many employees left due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and despite the temporary closure of the Highway 18 location, Kithuka says she's "been fighting through it."

"God has given me one of my dreams," she says. "The next one is just to get back to some sense of normalcy." —Kyle Hamrick

Finalists: Char Restaurant (4500 Interstate 55 N., 601-956-9562, charrestaurant.com) / Gumbo Pot (3401 Halls Ferry Road, Suite 5, Vicksburg, 601-501-1441, gumbopotms.com) / Hal & Mal's (200 Commerce St., 601-948-0777, halandmals.com) / The Lost Cajun (6745 S. Siwell Road, Byram; 769-257-6644; 190 Riverwind E. Drive, Suite 307, Pearl; 601-487-8598; thelostcajun.com) / Saltine Restaurant (622 Duling Ave., Suite 201, 601-982-2899, saltinerestaurant.com)

Best Doughnuts: Monroe's Donuts and Bakery

(multiple locations, monroesdonutsandbakery.com)

After growing up in Holmes County, Monroe Jackson moved to Chicago, Ill., and his boss observed that he was the best dishwasher that he had ever had, so he took the young man under his wing and taught him to bake. After his boss' death 16 years later, Jackson returned to the metro and used the skills he had learned during his sojourn up north to open Monroe's Donuts in September 1995.

"We've had tough times," Jackson acknowledged. "What keeps you in business is having a good product, maintaining good customer service and keeping reasonable prices. Those three things will never fail."

Another aspect of Jackson's business that has never failed is the wide array of confections that the bakery rolls out from dawn to dusk. "We've got glazed and chocolate donuts, cinnamon twists, bear claws, apple fritters—all sorts. They're the best donuts in the state, and it keeps our customers coming back," Jackson concludes. —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Finalists: Campbell's Craft Donuts (1121 N. Jefferson St., 601-292-7555, campbellsdonuts.com) / The Dapper Doughnut (257 Ridge Way, Flowood, 601-951-8999, thedapperdoughnut.com) / Donut Palace (multiple locations) / Pillow Donuts (707 Beau Pre Drive, Ridgeland, 601-790-9697; 1679 Old Fannin Road D, Flowood, 601-92-6040) / The Prickly Hippie (500 Highway 51, Suite F, Ridgeland, 601-910-6730, pricklyhippie.com)

Best Crawfish: T'Beaux's Crawfish and Catering

(941 Highway 80, Clinton, 601-926-4793, facebook.com/tbeauxscrawfish)

When Leigh Anne Ray married into the Ray family, she also married into the family business: crawfish. Her father-in-law started T'Beaux's in 1992, and her husband, Kelly, began managing the carry-out seafood business before the two married.

"It's undoubtedly the seasoning. His dad has his own seasoning," Ray says of the secret behind the family's long-running success. "It's different than anyone else's, and it's a different kind of product than most people use. It's packaged just for our family."

Customers can buy the blend themselves for at-home use, though, with the purchase of live crawfish. The main events at T'Beaux's include the crowd-pleasing crawfish, as well as shrimp, snow crab, dungeness crab and raw oysters, all of which can be served with Cajun-inspired side dishes like boudin, gumbo, and boiled corn and potatoes. —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Finalists: Crawdad Hole (1150 Lakeland Drive, 601-982-9299, thecrawdadhole.com) / The Crawfish Hut (6956 Old Canton Road, Ridgeland, 601-957-8900) / Mudbugs (1299 Old Fannin Road, Brandon, 601-992-5225; 151 W. Government St., Brandon, 601-706-4751; mudbugscrawfish.com) / Sal & Phil's (6600 Old Canton Road, Suite B, Ridgeland, 601-957-1188, salandphils.com)

Best Chinese Food: Mr. Chen's

(5465 Interstate 55 N., 601-978-1865, mrchensms.com)

Known for its authenticity, Mr. Chen's—in a strip mall off Interstate 55 in Jackson—offers 160 distinct dishes, with 30 of these highlighted as "Chef's Specials."

Adventurous eaters can try something new like the restaurant's flame-seared frog legs or its tofu live fish soup, while those who prefer more familiar dishes can sample cashew or sweet-and-sour chicken.

The eatery also offers a variety of meatless options, with several dishes featuring tofu and vegetables. Mr. Chen's strives to ensure that customers know what to expect, adorning their menu with images of red peppers to indicate what dishes might be considered spicy to more sensitive tastebuds.

Those who do enjoy the menu's spicier offerings can cool off with a sweet treat such as an iced milk tea, egg pudding or fried ice cream. —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Finalists: China Cafe (160 Promenade Blvd., Flowood, 601-919-1388, chinacafe.us) / Gourmet Chinese Restaurant (587 Highway 51, Ridgeland, 601-605-1061, gourmetridgeland.com) / Hunan Wok (6556 Old Canton Road, Ridgeland, 601-956-8988) / Ichiban Chinese Buffet (153 Ridge Way, Flowood; 601-919-0097; 3 Mac and Bones Blvd., Pearl; 769-208-2688; ichibangrillms.com) / Wok To Go (4329 N. State St., 601-981-2112)

Best Sandwich Place: Room Service

(4659 McWillie Drive, 601-362-44617; 1020 Highland Colony Parkway, Ridgeland, 601-707-3600; roomservicejackson.com)

Room Service, which opened its doors in 1986, boasts 38 sandwiches, 35 salads and 24 dressings, all of which were inspired by owner Hays Thompson's time in his mother's kitchen.

Confident in his creations, Thompson began his business by delivering sandwiches door-to-door, on foot. The restaurant has since opened two locations, one now in northeast Jackson and one in Ridgeland.

Promising fresh ingredients, the establishment offers a set of sandwiches named after streets in Mississippi's capital city: Capitol Street, High Street, State Street, George Street, Congress and Northside, along with its own street address: the McWillie.

The menu of the Renaissance location features sandwiches with monikers derived from other areas of the country, such as the San Fran, the Aspen, the Deltan and the Bay St. Louis. —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Finalists: Basil's (2914 N. State St.; 601-982-2100; 1000 Highland Colony Parkway, Ridgeland; 601-790-1919; 120 N. Congress St.; 601-944-9888; eatbasils.com) / The Beagle Bagel Cafe (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 145; 769-251-1892; 100 Mannsdale Park Drive, Suite II, Madison; 601-856-4377; beaglebagelcafe.com) / Martin's Downtown (214 S. State St., 601-354-9712, martinsdowntownjxn.com)

​Best Liquor/Wine Store: Corkscrew Fine Wine and Spirits

(4800 Interstate 55, 601-981-1333, https://www.loc8nearme.com/mississippi/jackson/corkscrew/3736273/)

Corkscrew Fine Wine and Spirits carries everything from $4 bottles of wine to flagons of liquor that cost well over $1,000, supporting Closing Manager Chris Pennock's claim that the establishment has a "deep inventory."

"We are a warehouse-style liquor store, so we have a massive selection of items," Pennock says. "We carry several thousand options as opposed to several hundred."

Among the most known of these thousands of offerings are Corkscrew's high-end bourbon selection, which includes the entirety of the Buffalo Trace and Weller lines. Also popular at the I-55 fixture is tequila, as the store carries a range of choices from the Don Julio and Patron lines, along with Michael Jordan's signature libation, Cincoro Anejo.

The shop sells high amounts of alcohol each year, and Pennock believes that Corkscrew backs up their accolades with "great customer service," saying that customers "don't even have to touch their packages if they don't want to." —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Finalists: Briarwood Wine & Spirits (4949 Old Canton Road, 601-956-5108, briarwoodwines.com) / Colony Wine Market (121 Colony Crossing Way, Suite B, Madison, 601-898-1075, colonywinemarket.com) / Fondren Cellars (633 Duling Ave., 769-216-2323, fondrencellars.com) / Kats Wine & Spirits (921 E. Fortification St., 601-983-5287, katswine.com) / Wine & Spirits in the Quarter (1855 Lakeland Drive, 601-366-6644, drinkinman.com)

Best Margarita: Babalu

(622 Duling Ave., 601-366-5757, eatbabalu.com)

For Assistant Manager Jasline Lee, the secret to Babalu's margarita menu is in the mixing. "Our margaritas use fresh ingredients every single time," Lee says of the tequila-infused concoctions.

The ingredients, however, would be nothing without able hands to prepare them, and Lee commended Babalu's slate of bartenders.

"Our bartenders take time to learn and perfect their craft, and it's made fresh right in front of you, as soon as you order it," she says.

The Duling Avenue establishment offers selections ranging from their namesake pomegranate-flavored "Baba Rita" to the blood-orange "Fondren Rita" named for the neighborhood. Daring drinkers can order a "Shine a Rita," which is spiked with firefly peach moonshine.

Recently, the business expanded its already-extensive menu by bringing back the tamarind margarita, which Lee described as a definite "crowd-pleaser."

All of Babalu's signature "ritas" can be purchased for $11.50 or less. The business also holds "social hours" from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. each weeknight to reduce cocktail prices even further. —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Finalists: Cinco De Mayo (800 Lake Harbour Drive, Ridgeland, 601-957-1882) / El Ranchito (1029 Highway 51, Madison, 601-605-1488, elranchitomadison.com) / Green Ghost Tacos (2820 N. State St., 601-487-6082; 1290 E. County Line Road, Ridgeland, 601-957-7436; greenghosttacos.com) / La Cazuela (1401 E. Fortification St., 601-353-3014) / Margaritas (1625 E. County Line Road, Suite 120, 601-957-7672) / Sombra Mexican Kitchen (140 Township Ave., Suite 100, Ridgeland; 601-707-7950; sombramexicankitchen.com)

Best Mexican/Latin Food: Green Ghost Tacos

(2820 N. State St., 601-487-6082; 1290 E. County Line Road, Ridgeland, 601-957-7436; greenghosttacos.com)

Cesar Torres grew up in Guanajuato, Mexico, and moved to Jackson with his family. After 14 years in Chicago, Ill., learning the restaurant business, Torres decided to return to Mississippi and open a Mexican restaurant with his mother. They opened up the first Green Ghost Tacos in Ridgeland in 2015, followed by a second location in Fondren in 2018.

"It's food you're not going to be able to get anywhere else," Torres says. "Whenever you come to my restaurant, you get a home-cooked meal like I ate when I was a little kid." He says his tacos, which can be customized from the outside in with any choice of meat and topping, are the crowd favorite, especially on Taco Tuesday when they sell for $2 apiece. —Kyle Hamrick

Finalists: Cazadores (500 Highway 51, Ridgeland, 601-853-4417) / El Cabrito Mexican Restaurant (2990 Highway 49, Florence, 601-845-0347) / El Ranchito (1029 Highway 51, Madison, 601-605-1488, elranchitomadison.com) / Papito's (111 Colony Crossing Way, Madison, 601-503-0275, papitosmexicanrestaurant.com) / Salsa's Mexican Restaurant (509 Springridge Road, Clinton, 601-924-3733, ordersalsamexicanrestaurantms.com) / Santa Fe Grill & Bar (4924 Interstate 55 N., Suite 105, 769-216-3964)

Best Pizza: The Pizza Shack

(925 E. Fortification St., 601-352-2001; 3040 Highway 80, Suite A, Pearl, 601-203-2986; 200 W. Leake St., Clinton, 601-708-1708;pizzashackms.com)

The Pizza Shack has been serving up traditional and thin-crust creations since 2005, making their own dough daily in-house, which manager and co-owner Tony Hollins believes is reflective of the business' commitment to freshness.

"We're known for piling on the toppings, so there are ingredients in every bite," Hollins says. These toppings range from Pizza Shack originals like chicken curry and chicken Thai to more traditional offerings such as pepperoni, canadian bacon, beef and pineapple.

Hollins purchased the East Fortification Street storefront in 2017 along with his wife, Cecila, and the pair continues to uphold the recipes customers love. —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Finalists: Capitol Grill (5050 Interstate 55 N., Suite F, 601-899-8845, capitolgrillofjackson.com) / Lost Pizza Co. (1392 W. Government, Brandon, 601-824-5515; 144 Friendly and Fresh Drive, Flowood, 601-345-8679; 500 Highway 51 in Trace Stadium, Ridgeland, 769-300-3116; lostpizza.com) / The Manship Wood Fired Kitchen (1200 N. State St., Suite 100, 601-398-4562, themanshipjackson.com) / Sal and Mookie's (565 Taylor St., 601-368-1919; 111 Colony Crossing Way, Suite 130, Madison, 601-499-1300; salandmookies.com) / Soulshine Pizza Factory (1111 Highland Colony Parkway, Ridgeland, 601-856-8646; 5352 Highway 25, Suite 1100, Flowood, 601-919-2000; soulshinepizza.com)

Best Wine List or Wine Selection (Restaurant): Table 100

(100 Ridge Way, Flowood, 601-420-4202, tableonehundred.com)

Table 100's menu devotes itself to white wines, as the restaurant offers a range of Chardonnays, Pinot Grigios, Sauvignon Blancs, Zinfandels and Rieslings, as well as "unique whites" like California's Damiano Vineyard "Carol Shelton Wild Thing."

Meanwhile, the red wine listings are just as varied, featuring Cabernet Sauvignons, Pinot Noirs, Syrahs, Merlots and Red Zinfandels, along with red blends like the 2015 "Chateau Trois Moulins."

"You can enjoy something and learn something, too," beverage manager and assistant general manager Chuck Nix says. "I try to find wines that are familiar enough to make guests comfortable but just unfamiliar enough for them to learn something new." —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Finalists: CAET Seafood and Oysterette (1000 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite 9015, Ridgeland, 601-321-9169, caetseafood.com) / Char Restaurant (4500 Interstate 55 N., 601-956-9562, charrestaurant.com) / Elvie's (809 Manship St., 601-863—8828, elviesrestaurant.com) / Library Lounge at Fairview Inn (734 Fairview St., 601-948-3429, fairviewinn.com) / The Manship Wood Fired Kitchen (1200 N. State St., Suite 100, 601-398-4562, themanshipjackson.com) / Walker's Drive In (3016 N. State St., 601-982-2633, walkersdrivein.com)

Best Seafood: The Seafood Shack

(1700 University Blvd., Suite 26, 601-357-0344, theseafoodshackjackson.com)

The Seafood Shack owes a portion of its success and renown to its relationship with Jackson State University, whose students and staff frequent the establishment due to its close proximity.

"We have a very good relationship with JSU," owner Cheryl Wade-Thompson says. "We have made it convenient for the students (to dine with us) by accepting the Super Card, and we do events where we directly support the students."

The number-one dish among student diners is the crazy cajun crab leg plate, which is topped with the restaurant's signature crazy cajun sauce, a butter-based condiment unique to The Seafood Shack. While this plate holds its place as a fan-favorite, Wade-Thompson points out that all of the restaurant's dishes feature "fresh and high-quality seafood at affordable prices."

Wade-Thompson, who owns the business with her husband, Johnny, also believes that the real culinary magic happens behind the scenes, and she notes that each dish is made with "love and passion, and with customers in mind."

"We do whatever we can to please our customers," she adds. —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Finalists: CAET Seafood and Oysterette (1000 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite 9015, Ridgeland, 601-321-9169, caetseafood.com) / Crabs Seafood Shack (6954 Old Canton Road, Ridgeland, 601-956-5040, crabshackridgeland.com) / Da Shak Grill (5752 Terry Road, Suite A1, Byram, 601-398-1765, da-shak-grill.edan.io) / Saltine Restaurant (622 Duling Ave., Suite 201, 601-982-2899, jackson.saltinerestaurant.com) / Steamer's Shrimp and Crab Market (2530 Robinson Road, 601-665-4529, steamersshrimpandcrab.com)

Best Thai Food: Thai Tasty

(5050 Parkway Drive, 601-540-2534, facebook.com/thaitastyrestaurant)

"Customer service—that's all we know," Thai Tasty's owner, Ekkapob, told the Jackson Free Press. The Colonial Mart eatery aims to live up to its mantra, as the restaurant offers online ordering options to maximize customer safety during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The business also maximizes the value of their customers' dollar, continuing to offer their $8.95 lunch special from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. each day, with each plate featuring steamed jasmine rice and a choice of chicken, beef, pork and tofu. Diners who return to sample the dinner menu can find vegetarian options, and the restaurant also invites customers with allergies to alert them to any nut, dairy or seafood sensitivities so that they can prepare dishes free from these products.

Thai Tasty also offers specialty items like the beef laab, customer-favorite beef noodle soup and cucumber salad, and a range of dessert options and Thai iced teas are available to top off customers' dining experiences. —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Finalists: Fusion Japanese & Thai Cuisine (1002 Treetops Blvd., Flowood, 601-664-7588, orderfusioncuisine.com) / Jutamas Thai Restaurant (500 Highway 51 Ridgeland, 769-300-4125, jutamasthaims.com) / Surin of Thailand (now closed) / Thai Time Thai and Sushi Restaurant (1405 Old Square Road, 601-982-9991, thaitimems.com) / Thailicious Restaurant (3000 Old Canton Road, Suite 105, 601-398-1456, thailiciousms.com)

Best Place for Dessert: Lou's Full-Serv

(904B E. Fortification St., 601-487-6359, lousfullserv.com)

Lou's Full-Serv staff crafts the restaurant's desserts from scratch. "Everything is homemade," owner Louis Larose explains. "It's all made in-house, from ice cream to our praline streusel to sauces."

One such sweet sauce is the vanilla white chocolate drizzle that tops both the bread pudding and the warm blueberry cake cobbler. Larose notes that these two desserts outsell the rest of their six-item menu nearly 2-to-1.

The restaurant's ice cream selection adorns many of the menu items and features flavors such as "buttermilk brown sugar-caramel cookies and vanilla," which is the restaurant's own spin on cookies and cream. For the connoisseurs of more traditional fare, the restaurant also offers homemade chocolate ice cream and a cast-iron pecan pie. —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Finalists: The Beagle Bagel Cafe (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 145; 769-251-1892; 100 Mannsdale Park Drive, Suite II, Madison; 601-856-4377; beaglebagelcafe.com) / The Prickly Hippie (500 Highway 51, Suite F, Ridgeland, 601-910-6730, pricklyhippie.com) / Ridgeland Coffee Co. (377 Highway 51, Ridgeland, 601-856-7374, ridgelandcoffeeco.com) / Urban Foxes (826 North St., 769-572-5505, urbanfoxesjxn.com) / Walker's Drive In (3016 N. State St., 601-982-2633, walkersdrivein.com)

Best Sushi/Japanese Food: Ichiban Hibachi & Sushi

(153 Ridge Way, Flowood; 601-919-0097; 3 Mac and Bones Blvd., Pearl; 769-208-2688; ichibangrillms.com)

Longtime Best of Jackson winner Ichiban Hibachi & Sushi may owe its success to its expansive menu, which has everything from vegetable, chicken, lobster or scallop hibachi to bento boxes with chicken teriyaki or shrimp tempura, as well as seafood tofu soup, egg rolls, sashimi, spicy shrimp, sushi rolls and more.

Brother and sister duo Kam and Ling Ngai opened the original Ichiban on Lakeland in 2006. They later branched out to both Chinese and Japanese cuisine with Ichiban Chinese Buffet in addition to the hibachi restaurants. Now, they run five locations across the Jackson metro after the opening of a Madison location in 2019. —Dustin Cardon

Finalists: Edo Japanese Restaurant (5834 Ridgewood Road, Suite C, 601-899-8518, edojapaneserestaurantjackson.com) / Fusion Japanese & Thai Cuisine (1002 Treetops Blvd, Flowood; 601-664-7588; 1030A Highway 51, Madison; 601-790-7999; orderfusioncuisine.com) / Nagoya Japanese Restaurant (6351 Interstate 55 N., Suite 131; 601-977-8881; 111 Colony Crossing Way, Suite 380, Madison; 601-856-5678; nagoyamadison.com) / Sushi Village (398 Highway 51, Suite 100, 601-898-9688, sushivillageridgeland.com) / Wasabi Sushi & Grill (1107 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite 111, 601-898-8849, wasabitownship.com)

Best Veggie Burger: Cool Al's

(4654 McWillie Drive, 601-291-1146, coolalsrestaurant.org)

In addition to its beef and turkey patties, Cool Al's offers a completely vegan and vegetarian menu, all cooked-to-order. For owner and general manager Shelby Kitchen, this approach ensures that each order can be prepared to suit the customer's taste, whether by allowing them to select a specific type of bun or to request a soy-free option.

"I try to make sure everyone has what they need," Kitchen says. "I think that's what sets us apart—we really care about our customers."

Some customer favorites include the Caribbean curry burger, flavored with the eatery's own Jamaican seasoning, and the west African burger, which comes with a serving of a spicy tomato ginger dipping sauce.

"We took over the restaurant last year," Kitchen recalls, but preparing these signature creations is a time-honored tradition for Kitchen and her crew, who take pride in Cool Al's 20-year history in the Jackson business scene. —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Finalists: Babalu (622 Duling Ave., 601-366-5757, eatbabalu.com) / Brent's Drugs (655 Duling Ave., 601-366-3427, brentsdrugs.com) / Local 463 (1000 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite 5002, 601-707-7684, local463.com) / The Village Kitchen (219 W. County Line Road, 769-524-4575, facebook.com/thevillagekitchen219)

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JFP StaffWed, 03 Feb 2021 14:40:27 -0600https://jacksonfreepress.com/news/2021/feb/03/best-jackson-2021-food/
Best of Jackson 2021: Urban Livinghttps://jacksonfreepress.com/news/2021/feb/03/best-jackson-2021-urban-living/

Best Day Spa, Best Nail Salon: AQUA the Day Spa

(1000 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite 8001, Ridgeland; 601-898-9123, aquathedayspa.com)

Those looking for a full day's pampering need look no further than AQUA the Day Spa at the Renaissance shopping center in Ridgeland. "We offer the full experience," owner Susan Barnette says. "From the time (customers) enter to the time they leave, we make sure that they have a good experience and that we fulfill their expectations while they're there."

For AQUA, the "full experience" includes facials, massages, manicures and pedicures, body treatments, waxing and lash extensions, but Barnette believes that much of the relaxation occurs between services, noting that the day spa offers "relaxation rooms" complete with beverages and snacks in order to help clients maintain their trouble-free mindset throughout the day.

The staff, too, is pivotal to their clients' relaxation. "We have a lot of experience," Barnette says of AQUA's 24 years in the Jackson business scene. "We have great therapists who are well-trained."

A number of these well-trained employees are nail technicians, who offer a full range of treatments to care for customers' hands and feet. "Sport" manicures and pedicures are aimed at the spa's male clients, while anyone looking to enhance their standard nail-care can add hot stone or paraffin applications to their choice of French or shellac polishes. —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Best Day Spa Finalists

Body Anew (1040 Gluckstadt Road, Suite B, Madison; 601-605-0452; bodyanewmedicalspa.com) / Drench Day Spa and Lash Lounge (118 W. Jackson St., Ridgeland, 601-707-5656, drenchdayspa.com) / NomiSpa at Fairview Inn (734 Fairview St., 601-948-3429, fairviewinn.com/spa) / Soul Synergy Center (5490 Castlewoods Court D, Flowood, 601-992-7721, soulsynergycenter.com)

Best Nail Salon Finalists

Bellagio Nails & Salon (385 Ridge Way, Flowood, 601-397-6937, bellagionailsalon.com) / Fondren Nails (2906 N. State St., 601-316-9264, facebook.com/FondrenNails) / Organic Nail & Lash Bar (179 Grandview Blvd., Suite 970, Madison; 601-898-1339; facebook.com/Organic-Nail-Lash-Bar) / The Nail Lounge (4500 Interstate 55 N. Frontage Road, Suite 103B, 601-398-4451, facebook.com/The-Nail-Lounge-HV) / Rouge Nails Lash Wax (5352 Lakeland Drive, Suite 1900, Flowood; 769-572-4747; facebook.com/rougenailsms) / ZaZa Nails and Spa (1053 Highway 49, Richland, 769-447-5959, facebook.com/zazanails49)

Best Place for Unique Gifts; Best Locally Owned Business: The Prickly Hippie

(500 Highway 51, Suite F, Ridgeland, 601-910-6730, pricklyhippie.com)

Jenni Sivils says The Prickly Hippie cafe in Ridgeland is a reflection of her three passions under one roof: good coffee, perfectly imperfect baked treats and wacky plants in wacky pots.

"I am a creative and a lover of people, so it made sense for me to have a business where I was able to create in a few different categories, and work with people every day," she says.

The 32-year-old from Eufaula, Ala., earned a degree in creative writing from the Mississippi University for Women in 2012, learning how to bake as a side-hustle. After three years on the road as a traveling baker, Sivils decided to open a catering business back home in Jackson in 2015. Three years later, she founded The Prickly Hippie at its current location.

"The name Prickly Hippie came to me because I'm very much a hippie, and cacti are prickly, and hippies don't always shave their legs," she says with a laugh.

The store is a full-service coffee shop, bakery and florist. Customers can choose their own cacti or succulent and plant it in a zany pot, order a homemade tie-dye donut or "peace tart," browse the Build-A-Bouq wall, make a custom flower arrangement and much more.

Although COVID-19 closed her storefront down for a while and cut her staff, Sivils is grateful for her customers and optimistic for the future. "I would not exist anymore without the Jackson community," she says. —Kyle Hamrick

Best Unique Gifts Finalists

Beacon (3030 N. State St., thebeaconsupply.com) / Bellaches (1000 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite 7004, Ridgeland; 601-605-2239; shopbellaches.com) / Herbal Blessings (614 N. Farish St., 769-216-3450, herbalblessings601.com) / Mockingbird Marketplace (2119 Highway 471, Brandon, 601-487-8802, facebook.com/Mockingbird-Marketplace) / OffBeat (151 Wesley Ave., 601-376-9404, offbeatjxn.com) / Soul Synergy Center (5490 Castlewoods Court D, Flowood, 601-992-7721, soulsynergycenter.com)

Best Locally Owned Business Finalists

4th Avenue Lounge (209 S. Lamar St., 601-259-5825, 4thavenuejxn.com) / Enchanting Memories Entertainment (662-590-2748, facebook.com/enchantingmemoriesentertainment) / Josephine's Kitchen (4638 Hanging Moss Road, 769-572-4276, josephineskitchenms.com) / Lakeland Glass and Tint (2665 Lakeland Drive, Flowood, 601-946-1000) / Magically Perfect (504-502-2847, facebook.com/magicallyperfectentertainment) / OffBeat (151 Wesley Ave., 601-376-9404, offbeatjxn.com)

Best Animal Shelter: CARA—Community Animal Rescue & Adoption

(960 N. Flag Chapel Road, 601-922-7575, carams.org)

Receiving no government funding, Community Animal Rescue & Adoption, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit no-kill shelter, finds support exclusively through private donations from individuals, businesses and fundraising efforts. A team of volunteers and part-time employees run the operation.

"We're dedicated to saving dogs and cats in the Jackson area who need loving homes," shelter manager Stevana Williams says. "We also provide low cost spay/neuter options to reduce the population of unwanted animals and educate the community on responsible pet ownership."

CARA houses about 120 animals in the building and has a small foster network. "We have undergone many changes recently to improve the animals' lives and increase adoptions," Williams says. "We do behavioral testing and have large playgroups in our private dog park. This makes for healthier, happier dogs."

The shelter sets itself apart and boosts adoptions by having its veterinarian-trained staff perform heartworm tests in-house, with animals receiving heartworm prevention or treatment afterward, as needed.

"This is often costly, but ongoing generous donations of cash and items on our wishlist ensure we can provide the best care for our animals," Williams concludes. —Michele D. Baker

Finalists: ARF - Animal Rescue Fund (395 Mayes St., 769-216-3414, arfms.org) / Cheshire Abbey (cheshireabbey.com) / Mississippi Animal Rescue League (5221 Greenway Drive Extension, 601-969-1631, msarl.org) / Webster Animal Shelter (525 Post Oak Road, Madison, 601-605-4729, facebook.com/websteranimalshelter)

Best Barbershop: Noble Barber

(1065 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite F, Ridgeland, 601-856-6665, noblebarber.com)

Lanis Noble channeled his previous experience working with hair to open the Wild West-themed barbershop in late 2016 as a place where guys can come for a shave or cut from him or someone else from his "Noble Group." Afterward, customers can belly up from the salon to the saloon to purchase from a selection of 30 craft brews. Root beer and other sodas are also available.

In addition, Noble Barber offers "Groomsday" parties, where patrons of all ages can get together for a drink and a trim at the Ridgeland-based barbershop. Alternatively, Noble Barber will cater these event services to customers' locations.

Products for sale include Victory Beard Oil, Claymore Strong Hold Styling Clay and a number of other grooming products primarily catered to men.

Customers can make appointments through the company's website or through its mobile app available on Android and iOS devices. Follow Noble Barber on Facebook for regular updates on the business' goings-on. —Julian Mills

Finalists: The Barbershop at Great Scott (4400 Old Canton Road, 601-984-3500, greatscott.net/the-barber-shop) / The Chop Shop Barber and Salon (904 Municipal Drive, Brandon, 769-241-5598, facebook.com/thechopshopbarberandsalon) / Custom Cuts & Styles (2445 Terry Road, 601-321-9292, facebook.com/customcutsandstyles) / Fondren Barber Shop (2939 Old Canton Road, 601-826-0707, facebook.com/Fondren-Barber-Shop) / The Men's Room (418 Pearl Drive, Pearl, 601-939-8261, facebook.com/barbershopmensroom) / Uptown Hair Studio (1700 University Blvd., Suite 23, 601-352-9217, facebook.com/uptownhaircare)

Best Beauty Shop/Salon: UpTown Hair Studio

(1700 University Blvd., Suite 23, 601-352-9217, facebook.com/uptownhaircare)

For 20 years, UpTown Hair Studio has provided a welcoming environment for customers to handle their hair-care needs, and owner and hairdresser Pamela Jones believes that her faith makes this possible. "We are set apart by the fact that we are a God-fearing salon," Jones says. "Everybody is welcome."

One of the salon's most recognizable customers Jackson Mayor Chokwe A. Lumumba, who frequents the shop for his own haircuts, but the salon has served multiple generations of Jacksonians, with Jones noting that many of their clients are families.

For this reason, Jones and her eight stylists prefer not to specialize, instead focusing on being able to do "all types of hair." This inclusive mindset has allowed Uptown Hair Studio to focus on its primary goal: meeting the needs of its customers. "Interacting with the great people of Jackson is the best part of our job," Jones says.

Jones, however, does not want the Jackson community to merely take her at her word, instead inviting locals in need of everything from a trim to a new style to visit her shop and judge for themselves. —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Finalists: Barnette's Salon (4465 Interstate 55 N., Suite 201; 601-362-9550; 1000 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite 8000, Ridgeland; 601-898-4646; barnettessalon.com) / The Glossary Salon (109 E. Main St., Florence, 601-845-1111, glossaryhairsalon.com) / Molly Gee & Company (219 Garden Park Drive, Suite 200A, Madison; 601-853-0054; mollygeeandco.com) / Smoak Salon (622 Duling Ave., 601-982-5313, smoaksalon.com) / Watercolor Salon (1220 E. Northside Drive, Suite 300; 601-366-9343; 114 W. Jackson St., Suite 1H, Ridgeland; 601-605-4448; watercolorsalon.com) / Wave Lengths Salon (20 Northtown Drive, 601-956-6224, wavelengthsms.com)

Best Car Dealer (New or Used): Patty Peck Honda

(555 Sunnybrook Road, Ridgeland, 601-957-3400, pattypeckhonda.com)

Patty Peck Honda has been around since 1984, but in the last year, the dealership has improved its already great service to make it even easier for customers to find a great car during the pandemic.

"Part of what we do is make the shopping process very easy," digital Marketing Manager Donna Ransdell says. "Many customers start on our website by gathering information and asking questions via chat."

Recent upgrades have made it even easier to get answers on financing, availability or payment options. Helpful staff work to make each transaction as easy and transparent as possible. "We can help you find a car to fit your budget or compare several cars to find which one best suits your needs," Ransdell says.

Social distancing has spurred the dealership to be even more creative. "We can even do a live walk around video, if the customer wants it," Ransdell says. What's more, Patty Peck Honda will deliver your car and offers a "love it or leave it" three-day money-back guarantee: "We just want our customers to be happy." —Michele D. Baker

Finalists: Acura of Jackson (828 Adcock St., Ridgeland, 769-235-2469, acuraofjackson.com) / Bob Boyte Honda (2188 Highway 18, Brandon, 601-591-5000, bobboytehonda.com) / CIA Autoplex (380 Distribution Drive, Madison, 601-499-0173, ciaautoplex.com) / Mazda of Jackson (5397 Interstate 55 N. Frontage Road, 601-991-2222, mazdaofjackson.com) / Motorcars of Jackson (6105 Interstate 55, 769-243-8568, motorcarsofjackson.com) / Paul Moak Automotive (740 Larson St., 802 Harding St., 601-360-8300, paulmoak.com)

Best Dance Studio: Mississippi Metropolitan Ballet

(110 Homestead Drive, Madison, 601-853-4508, msmetroballet.com)

Originally beginning as the Madison Civic Ballet in 1992, the Mississippi Metropolitan Ballet boasts a dance academy, a non-profit ballet company and many outreach programs. Primarily serving the county upon inception, the name change occurred in 1997 to reflect the wider geographic area it more accurately serviced and from which the studio attracted dancers.

Through the years, guest artists of the company and academy have included many USA IBC medalists and principal dancers from Louisville Ballet, San Francisco Ballet and Complexions Contemporary Ballet to name a few. In addition, the dance academy counts as students award winners in many competitions.

Under the artistic direction of Jennifer Beasley, the school offers classes for students between the ages of 3 and 18 in ballet, pointe, jazz, tap, contemporary, hip-hop and progressing ballet technique. The Mississippi Metropolitan Dance Academy serves as the official school of the Mississippi Metropolitan Ballet Company.

Serious students at MMDA have the opportunity to audition annually for The Mississippi Metropolitan Ballet Company and perform ballets from the classical repertory, including "The Nutcracker," which the studio produces each year, as well as contemporary works. These dancers receive the opportunity to work with dancers and guest artists from across the country—including medalists from The USA International Ballet Competition and principal dancers from San Francisco Ballet, Louisville Ballet and Complexions Contemporary Ballet.

Recently, Regional Dance America named Mississippi Metropolitan Ballet the high status of "honor company" in southeast region. MMB alumni include a former Miss Mississippi, America's Junior Miss and Mississippi's Distinguished Young Woman. Students have been accepted to attend American Ballet Theatre, Alvin Ailey, Joffrey Ballet, Pacific Northwest Ballet, Boston Ballet and other prestigious dance programs across the country and many have graduated from college dance programs and are currently dancing in professional companies.

With support from the Mississippi Arts Commission, the company travels to underserved areas, introducing ballet to 15,000-plus children over a 20-year time frame. The studio offers a scholarship program for children who have the talent and desire for dance yet lack financial agency. Find class schedules, school policies and a tuition brochure on the company's website. —Mike McDonald

Finalists: Central Mississippi Dance (1450 Highway 471, Brandon, 601-951-6618, centralmsdance.com) / Judah School of Performing Arts (731 S. Pear Orchard Road, Suite 30, Ridgeland; 769-257-0330; judahschool.com) / Rhonda Whitehead's Studio (111 Grants Ferry Road, Brandon, 601-992-0490, rhondasdanceand gym.com) / Salsa Mississippi Club & Studio (605 Duling Ave., 601-213-6355, salsamississippi.com) / Studio K (900 E. County Line Road, Suite 220A, Ridgeland; 769-251-1506; facebook.com/StudioK601) / XPress Dance Company (2160 Main St., Suite D, Madison; 601-853-0826; xdance.net)

Best Flower Shop: Greenbrook Flowers

(705 N. State St., 601-957-1951, greenbrookflowers.com)

Flowers make a statement, and this year's winner of the Best Florist category makes sure that your statement speaks louder than the rest. Greenbrook Flowers has been a staple in Jackson since 1917, and it's not by chance. When you enter the shop on State Street, you are met with the sweet smell of flowers and the sight of handcrafted arrangements. The shop offers florals for all occasions as well as gifts and baskets available for same-day delivery to Jackson and the surrounding areas. Orders and consultations can be handled in-person, online, or via phone.

Greenbrook is well known for its annual "Good Neighbor Day" which began in 1994. Each September, people line up outside the state street store to receive a dozen free roses. There is one stipulation: each person who receives a bouquet is to keep only one rose and distribute the others to friends, family, neighbors and strangers. —Torsheta Jackson

Finalists: A Daisy A Day (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 194, 601-982-4438, adaisyadayjackson.com) / Chapman's Florist (5647 Highway 80, Suite 6, Pearl; 601-936-0391, chapmansflowershop.com) / Fresh Cut Catering & Floral ((108 Cypress Cove, Flowood, 601-939-4518, freshcutcateringandfloral.com) / Green Oak Florist & Garden Center (5009 Old Canton Road, 601-956-5017, greenoakms.com) / Mostly Martha's Floral Designs (353 Highway 51, Ridgeland, 601-956-1474, mostlymarthasflorist.com) / The Prickly Hippie (500 Highway 51, Suite F, Ridgeland, 601-910-6730, pricklyhippie.com)

Best Local Jeweler: Carter Jewelers

(711 High St., 601-354-3549, carterdiamonds.com)

Carter Jewelers, the oldest jewelry store in the state and one of the oldest in the nation, has seen many changes since it first opened in 1849. Owner and President Jerry Lake claims that the original owners, the von Seutters, helped the store survive the unrest of the Civil War by "burying the jewelry in suitcases until things normalized."

Fate seemed to favor the store again in 1997 during one of Lake's visits to the storefront prior to purchasing the business. "I noticed that the first six digits of the store's FedEx number were the same six digits as my birthday, so I thought it couldn't have been a coincidence," Lake recalls.

For Lake, the stars' seeming alignment isn't the end of the story, as his staff remains committed to offering diamonds that are, in his view, "second-to-none in quality and workmanship." Their sales reflect this belief, as Lake declares that Carter's "sells more diamond jewelry than anyone else around this part of the world." —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Finalists: Albriton's Jewelry (4460 Old Canton Road, 601-982-4020, albritons.com) / Beckham Custom Jewelry Co. (120 District Blvd. E., Suite D110, 601-665-4642, beckhamcustomjewelry.com) / Crossgates Jewelers (401 Cross Park Drive, Suite A, Pearl; 601-939-9313) / Jackson Jewelers (253 Ridge Way, Flowood, 601-992-1700, jacksonjewelersinc.com) / Juniker Jewelry Co. (1485 Highland Colony Parkway, Madison, 601-366-3754, junikerjewelry.com) / Kris Jewelers (1200 E. County Line Road, Ridgeland, 601-974-5790, krisjewelers.com)

Best Fitness Center/Gym: Baptist Healthplex

(717 Manship St.; 601-968-1766; 102 Clinton Parkway, Clinton; 601-925-7900; 501 Baptist Drive, Madison; 601-856-7757; baptistonline.org)

A returning Best of Jackson winner, the Baptist Healthplex has been serving downtown Jackson since 1989. Baptist offers a variety of services and fitness equipment including an indoor track, an aerobics floor, a heated pool, a Cybex fitness system, exercise bikes, treadmills, rowers, weights and cardio equipment.

The healthplex's classes include group activities with titles such as Hatha Yoga, Ballet Fitness, Cardio Kick and Dance Aerobics. Those who enjoy aquatic exercise can find a number of water-based classes as well.

"We always appreciate the Jackson Free Press noticing businesses around town getting nominated, so we're always excited to be advertised in the community," Baptist Healthplex Director Tony James says about receiving the facility's second nomination in a row. —Julian Mills

Finalists: The Club (340 Township Ave., Ridgeland, 601-856-0668; 970 Lakeland Drive, 601-200-4925; 100 Professional Drive, Brandon, 601-591-2582; theclubms.com) / Crossfit 601 (210 Industrial Cove, Ridgeland, 601-941-8904, crossfit601.com) / Fondren Fitness (2807 Old Canton Road, 601-540-0338, fondrenfitness.com) / The Gym at Byram (136 Byram Parkway, 601-372-2229, thegymatbyram.com) / Xplicit J3 Fitness (1625 E. County Line Road, 601-850-3425, xplicitj3fitness.com)

Best Local Bank: BankPlus

(multiple locations, bankplus.net)

While many financial institutions have established themselves in the Jackson metro, residents have voted BankPlus—which offers checking and savings accounts; personal, auto and home loans; and a number of other services—as this year's Best Local Bank.

BankPlus believes that its mission extends beyond the customer financial products expected of a bank. The bank involves itself in the community through partnerships with local organizations such as the American Heart Association, Blair E. Batson Children's Hospital and the Mississippi Museum of Art, among others. It also supports education through an Adopt-a-School program and provides financial literacy programs such as "Get Smart About Credit" and "Teach Children to Save."

Community development remains a large focus of the bank, as BankPlus also has a hand in programs that strengthen neighborhoods, boost small businesses and assist in affordable housing. —Torsheta Jackson

Finalists: BancorpSouth (multiple locations, bancorpsouth.com) / Community Bank (multiple locations, communitybank.net) / First Commercial Bank (1300 Meadowbrook Road; 601-709-7777; 1076 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite 150, Ridgeland; 601-790-2770; firstcommericalbk.com) / Regions (multiple locations, regions.com) / Renasant (Multiple locations, renasantbank.com) / Trustmark (multiple locations, trustmark.com)

Best Local Clothing Store: Material Girls

(100 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite 7005, Ridgeland; 601-605-1605, shopmaterial girls.com)

The staff members of Material Girls do their homework when it comes to staying on top of the latest trends. "We go to market a good bit," Director of Operations Laura Brown says. "We're always looking for the next best thing."

Brown believes that the customers often have the best ideas about what constitutes the "next best thing," so the staff takes care to ask customers which items are missing from their closet and then attempts to stock such items.

Customers who choose Material Girls are treated to a wide range of women's apparel, from satiny one-shoulder blouses to oversized flannels to snake-print dresses. Fashionistas can complete their ensembles by browsing the shop's shoe selection or by selecting accessories such as clutches, necklaces and tote bags. —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Finalists: Altar'd State (1000 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite 5009, 601-790-1009, altardstate.com) / Kinkade's Fine Clothing (120 West Jackson St., Ridgeland, 601-898-0513, kinkades.com) / Libby Story (1000 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite 5003, Ridgeland; 601-717-3300, libbystory.com) / N.U.T.S. (114 Millsaps Ave., 601-355-7458, facebook.com/nutsjackson) / Swell-O-Phonic (2906 N. State St., Suite 103, 601-981-3547, chane.com)

Best Place to Book a Party/Shower: Old Capitol Inn

(226 N. State St., 601-359-9000, oldcapitolinn.com)

The graceful Old Capitol Inn opened in 1996. Owners transformed the former YWCA gym/basketball court by adding a mezzanine into a grand ballroom opening onto a walled garden courtyard. "We rent the Vieux Carre for rehearsal dinners, bridal brunches, birthday parties and other events," owner Mende (Malouf) Alford says. "The sunroom and garden are also available, and the rooftop, weather permitting."

No matter the event, chef Bruce Cain can cater it. Specialties of the house include shrimp and grits and artichoke dip, but the real magic happens when guests make requests. "We customize every detail," Alford says. "We don't really have options A, B and C. The menus are just for guidance. Have your grandma's recipe? We're happy to make it. Prefer traditional Lebanese food? We can handle it."

Beverages can be created to taste, too. "We offer beer, wine and we can mix signature drinks," Alford says.

Decorations and entertainment options are also as individual as the guest. "We've had the ballroom swathed in beautiful Indian fabrics for Diwali, and another group projected old-school black and white movies on the brick wall outside," Alford adds. "We just want your event to be fun and fabulous." —Michele D. Baker

Finalists: 4th Avenue Lounge (209 S. Lamar St., 601-259-5825, 4thavenuejxn.com) / Banner Hall (4465 Interstate 55 N., 601-842-2297, facebook.com/BannerHall) / The Briar Patch (1150 Old Cedars Lane, Flora, 601-559-8565) / The Cedars (4145 Old Canton Road, 601-366-5552) / Fairview Inn (734 Fairview St., 601-948-3429, fairviewinn.com) / The Strawberry Cafe (107 Depot Drive, Madison, 601-856-3822, strawberrycafemadison.com)

Best Place to Buy Antiques: Flowood Antique Flea Market

(1325 Flowood Drive, Flowood, 601-953-5914, flowoodantiquefleamarket.com)

With over 65,000 square feet of retail space under one roof, the Flowood Antique Flea Market boasts a vast variety of vendors selling everything from antique collectibles to the latest items.

David Murrell took ownership of the combination antique mall and flea market together 10 years ago, opening it after the flea market at the Mississippi State Fair Grounds closed in 2005. Jack Cameron bought into the building in 2019 to become a co-owner.

The Flowood Antique Flea Market harbors both a traditional flea market and an antique mall in one place, Cameron says. In the flea-market section, vendors rent their retail space and sell their own items; and in the antique-mall area, the vendors sell through the mall. Cameron and Murrell take pride in the fact that they've never raised the rent in the past decade, and that the antique-mall section is at full capacity with a waiting list. Cameron estimates about 800 people pass through the market when it's open on the weekends.

"We literally have everything from A to Z," Cameron says. Many of the vendors have been in business for more than 20 years, and he describes the group of vendors as a "big family." —Kyle Hamrick

Finalists: Antique Aly (294 Commerce Park Drive, Ridgeland, 769-300-0262) / Antique Mall of the South (367 Highway 51, Ridgeland, 601-853-4000, antiquemallofthesouth.com) / Beacon (3030 N. State St., thebeaconsupply.com) / N.U.T.S. (114 Millsaps Ave., 601-355-7458) / Old House Depot (639 Monroe St., 601-592-6200, oldhousedepot.com) / Repeat Street (242 Highway 51, Ridgeland, 601-605-9123, repeatstreet.net)

Best Local Credit Union: Hope Credit Union

(multiple locations, hopecu.org)

The members of Anderson United Methodist Church founded Hope Credit Union in 1995 with the mission of decreasing the wealth gap by reducing the effects spurred by issues such as race, gender and physical location.

Hope offers common financial services such as checking and savings accounts as well as personal and home loans. The credit union also has a loan fund that provides commercial, mortgage and community-facility loans in economically distressed areas.

In June 2020, Hope announced a $10-million deposit by Netflix that will be used to provide financing to more than 2,500 entrepreneurs, homebuyers and consumers of color over the next two years.

The primary branch of Hope is in Jackson; however, the credit union spreads further, with 12 branches across Mississippi and 28 in the South as a whole. —Torsheta Jackson.

Finalists: Jackson Area Federal Credit Union (5675 Highway 18 W.; 7375 Siwell Road, Byram; 601-922-7055; jacksonareafcu.com) / Keesler Federal Credit Union (multiple locations, kfcu.org) / Mississippi Federal Credit Union (100 Alumni Drive; 500 Clinton Center Drive, Clinton; 601-351-9200; msfcu.us) / Mississippi National Guard Federal Credit Union (142 Military Drive, 601-932-5194, msng.org)

Best Place to Buy Kids' Clothes/Toys: Play Pen

(4754 Interstate 55 N. Frontage Road, 601-362-7256, babysupermarket.com)

Since 1954, Cullen's Play Pen, a family-owned and operated store, has been providing families in and around Jackson with baby furniture, bedding, car seats, strollers, toys, collectible dolls and play dolls. The brick-and-mortar store features toys for children of all ages, from building blocks and soft toys to scooters, pogo sticks, bicycles and everything in-between.

During the pandemic, Play Pen delivers orders curbside to help keep families safe, and people can visit Babysupermarket—Play Pen's online "sister" store—for the same quality service to families in the 48 contiguous states. Babysupermarket is a member of the National Independent Nursery Furniture Retailers Association, ensuring that customers always receive quality products. —Michele D. Baker

Finalists: Leap Frog (104 Village Blvd., Madison, 601-898-0727, leapfrogmadison.com) / Rhea Lana's Children's Consignment (662-588-8178, facebook.com/MadisonRidgelandRheaLanas) / Row 10 (1107 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite 105, 601-707-5846, row10baby.com) / Southern Raised (151 W. Government St., Suite A, Brandon; 601-591-7313; shopsouthernraised.com) / WEE the People (119 Colony Crossing Way, Suite 640, Madison; 769-231-7496; weethepeoplems.com) / Willow & Grace (4237 Lakeland Drive, Flowood, 601-939-1191, facebook.com/shopwillowandgrace)

Best Place to Get Your Car Fixed: Capitol Body Shop

(multiple locations, capitolbodyshop.com)

Longtime Best of Jackson winner Capitol Body Shop first opened its doors in 1963 under the ownership of Chad White, who leased the downtown Jackson building at a time when he only had two other employees. In the decades since, Capitol Body Shop has expanded across the Jackson metro, with locations in Flowood, Byram, Ridgeland and Gluckstadt. Chad White's son, Doug White, took over the business from his father in the mid 1990s.

"We're grateful to all the residents of the Jackson metro who have been our faithful customers for many years," Leon Hemphill, sales and marketing manager for Capitol Body Shop, says.

Capitol Body Shop provides 24-hour towing, body and collision repair, painting, oil changes, full-service mechanical repair, windshield glass repair and more. The shop also gives a written warranty on all repairs and offers a complimentary shuttle service for customers. —Dustin Cardon

Finalists: Acey's (827 W. McDowell Road, 601-373-4623) / Barnett's Body Shop (Multiple locations, barnettsbodyshohp.com) / Freeman Auto Repair (847 State St., 601-948-3358, freemanautorepair.com) / Greene's Tire Auto Service (715 Ridgewood Road, Ridgeland, 601-957-0201; 1405 E. Northside Drive, Clinton, 601-924-3800; greenestire.com) / Tony's Tire & Automotive (5138 N. State St., 601-981-2414)

Best Place to Work: Baptist Medical Center

(1225 N. State St., 601-968-1000, baptistonline.org)

With a staff of nearly 3,000, Baptist Medical Center is one of the 10 largest employers in Jackson. The hospital prioritizes its employees' satisfaction, conducting a survey each spring to inquire about experiences and expectations in the workplace.

"This year, the survey (was given) after COVID, and we saw a big increase in employee engagement," COO Brad Beattie says. Beattie hopes that this practice fosters a company culture of transparency, as meetings are then initiated at the departmental level in order to solicit feedback from staff members.

"We ask for ideas on how to improve," Beattie says of the process. "Then we tell them what we're going to do to improve, so they can see that we're using their feedback to make improvements." —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Finalists: Barnette's Salon (4465 Interstate 55 N., Suite 201, 601-362-9550; 1000 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite 8000, Ridgeland, 601-898-4646, barnettessalon.com) / Bob Boyte Honda (2188 Highway 18, Brandon, 601-591-5000, bobboytehonda.com) / Jackson Academy (4908 Ridgewood Road, 601-362-9676, jacksonacademy.org) / Lakeland Glass & Tint (2665 Lakeland Drive, Flowood, 601-946-1000, facebook.com/lgandtint) / Merit Health Central (1850 Chadwick Drive, 601-376-1000, merithealthcentral.com) / Tougaloo College (500 W. County Line Road, Tougaloo, 601-977-7700, tougaloo.edu)

Best Yoga Studio: Soul Synergy Center

(5490 Castlewoods Court, Suite D, Flowood; 601-992-7721; soulsynergycenter.com)

A one-stop-shop for everything yoga, Soul Synergy Center offers classes ranging from beginner and intermediate, to advanced, to pregnancy yoga and to chair yoga for elders. The center can accommodate any skill level or health challenge.

"All our yoga instructors are trained in multiple modalities like Iyengar, vinyasa, ashtanga, and more," Center Director Tamnisha Dortch says. "We offer classes based on a person's needs and have many different dates and times to accommodate all schedules." Customers can participate in a drop-in class for $15 or purchase a 10-pack of classes for $100.

"We offer gentle stretching poses; warm flow yoga that gets you sweating for a nice workout; candlelight relaxation yoga; and kundalini yoga, which focuses on breath, postures, meditation and chanting or singing," Jennifer Malik, Soul Synergy's yoga director, says. "Our motto is celebrating mind, body and spirit."

Soul Synergy Center is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and also offers a wide range of massage, Reiki, foot reflexology, a salt cave and a gift shop, as well as virtual services. —Michele D. Baker

Finalists: M Theory Yoga (118 W. Jackson St., Suite C, Ridgeland; 601-790-7402, mtheoryyoga.com) / Namaste at the Bar (namastejxn.com) / Tara Yoga (200 Park Circle Drive, Suite 4, Flowood; 601-720-2337; tara-yoga.net) / Yoga by Jean (717 Rice Road, Ridgeland, 769-798-7355, yogabyjean.com)

Best Tattoo/Piercing Parlor: The Electric Dagger

(2906 N. State St., Suite B6, 601-982-9437, electricdagger.com)

Established in 2013, The Electric Dagger initiated a number of protocols to help keep its customers safe and to ensure that the storefront continues to thrive during the pandemic.

Although the shop has discontinued walk-ins as part of these protective measures, the company website encourages those looking to add new body art to book an appointment online with one of its three on-site artists.

Jason Thomas, the owner and founder of The Electric Dagger, specializes in "skulls, snakes and daggers," while artist Mike Richardson calls his own style "illustrative and traditional," with much of his art featuring shades of black and gray. The lone female artist, Mallory Kay Palmertree, has a folksy eye for detail, often creating colorful pieces for the patrons of the studio. —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Finalists: Ink Addicts Studio (500 E. Woodrow Wilson Ave., Suite B, 769-230-4960, inkaddictsstudio.com) / Inkk Culture Tattoo (840 E. River Place, Suite 607, 601-966-5472, instagram.com/inkkculturetattoo) / Inkk Junkies Tattoo (182 Raymond Road, 769-251-5823, instagram.com/inkk_junkies_tattoos) / Squench's Tattoos (3780 Interstate 55 S. Frontage Road, 601-372-2800, squenchstattoos.com)

Best Thrift/Consignment Shop: Repeat Street

(242 Highway 51, Ridgeland, 601-605-9123, repeatstreet.net)

Repeat Street, in its ninth year as the winner of the Best Thrift/Consignment Shop category, houses 17,000 square feet of constantly changing inventory. Customers can find clothing for men, women and children, as well as furniture and antiques, while the outdoor area showcases lawn, garden and lawn decor.

The business now includes several retail arms, such as The Pawlor at Repeat Street. The room, a partnership with Community Animal Rescue and Adoption, features furniture home decor, seasonal clothing and other items for sale. Fifty percent of these profits benefit the no-kill animal shelter.

The storehouse at Repeat Street, a vendor mall located next door, contains more than 40 merchants offering gifts, clothing, food and other items for customers. —Torsheta Jackson

Finalists: Leap Frog Children's Consignment & More (104 Village Blvd., Madison, 601-898-0727, leapfrogmadison.com) / N.U.T.S. (114 Millsaps Ave., 601-355-7458, facebook.com/nutsjackson) / Orange Peel (closed) (422 Mitchell Ave., 601-364-9977, facebook.com/orangepeelfondren) / Palladian Consign & Design (637 Highway 51, Ridgeland, 601-790-9678, facebook.com/PalladianConsign) / The Real McCoy Thrift Store and Boutique (5482 N. State St., 769-572-5709, themccoyhouse.com) / Rhea Lana's Children's Consignment (662-588-8178)

Best Veterinarian/Pet Clinic: Mannsdale Animal Clinic

(488 Mannsdale Road, Madison, 601-499-5200, themac.vet)

Dale Wilson, owner of Mannsdale Animal Clinic in Madison, opened his small animal-exclusive veterinary clinic in 2014 with the goal of "redefining the veterinary experience."

"We want people to feel important from the time they arrive to the time they leave and make sure that not only are our clients' pets getting the best possible care, the clients are as well," Wilson says.

Wilson grew up in Greenville, Miss., and practiced at Oakdale Animal Hospital in Brandon from 2005 to 2014, after he moved to the Jackson metro. He owns a brindle Great Dane named Willow.

The clinic offers vaccinations, sick pet visits, digital x-rays, ultrasounds, heartworm and disease treatment, pet medications, surgery, chemotherapy, preventative care, spay and neutering services, boarding and more. —Dustin Cardon

Finalists: Animal Hospital of Clinton (497 Springridge Road, Clinton, 601-924-4169, animalhospitalclinton.com) / Animal Medical Center (995 Interstate 20 S. Frontage Road, 601-354-3622, animalmedicalcenterofjackson.com) / Hometown Veterinary Hospital (2001 Creek Cove, Brandon, 601-825-1697, hometownvethospital.com) / Luckney Animal Hospital (280 Belle Meade Point, Flowood, 601-992-3299, luckneyanimal.com) / North State Animal & Bird Hospital (5208 N. State St., 601-982-8261, northstateanimalhospital.com) / URGIVET Emergency Vets of Madison (15 Olympic Way, Madison, 601-790-1918, urgivet.com)

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JFP StaffWed, 03 Feb 2021 14:01:30 -0600https://jacksonfreepress.com/news/2021/feb/03/best-jackson-2021-urban-living/
Best of Jackson 2021: Nightlife and Musichttps://jacksonfreepress.com/news/2021/feb/03/best-jackson-2021-nightlife-and-music/

Best Bar, Best Pub Quiz/Trivia Night: Fenian's Pub

(901 E. Fortification St., 601-948-0055, fenianspub.com)

In 2021, Fenian's Pub will celebrate its 25th year in business on East Fortification Street. Named after Finn McCool, a giant of Irish lore who is buried beneath Dublin, the Irish-themed bar serves traditional pub fare such as the scotch egg and fish and chips, but its most popular offerings are its beverages.

Fenian's offers an array of stouts and claims to have one of "the most extensive selections of Irish whiskies in the southeast." Plus, the pub's menu also features specialty drinks like the spiced pear old fashioned, the el diablo noche and the whiskey apple peanut butter, nicknamed the "WAP," a nod to Cardi B's song of the same name.

Patrons who appreciate the pop-culture reference can try their hand at "Pub Quiz," a trivia night offered at 7 p.m. each Wednesday that covers a wide range of topics. Each competing team is permitted six participants, and the winning team has the opportunity to take home prizes from the local Cathead Distillery.

The pub quiz is currently postponed due to high COVID-19 numbers, and Fenian's provides curbside pick-up to locals not yet ready to dine in. Fenian's also honors those who have been vital during the pandemic with "Service Industry Day," which takes place Monday through Thursday after 10 p.m. and offers $1 off every drink to qualifying customers. —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Best Bar Finalists

4th Avenue Lounge (209 S. Lamar St., 601-259-5825, 4thavenuejxn.com) / BB'S LIVE - Bonny Blair's (1149 Old Fannin Road, Brandon, 769-447-5788) / M-Bar Sports Grill (6340 Ridgewood Court Drive, 601-398-0999, thembarjxn.com) / Names and Faces Lounge (224 E. Capitol St., 601-955-5285, facebook.com/namesandfaceslounge) / Pop's Saloon (2636 S. Gallatin St., 601-961-4747) / Shucker's Oyster Bar (116 Conestoga Road, Ridgeland, 601-853-0105, shuckersontherez.com)

Best Pub Quiz/Trivia Night Finalists

Fondren Public (2765 Old Canton Road, 769-216-2589, facebook.com/fondrenpublic) / Library Lounge at Fairview Inn (734 Fairview St., 601-948-3429, fairviewinn.com) / Lost Pizza Co. (1392 W. Government, Brandon, 601-824-5515; 144 Friendly and Fresh Drive, Flowood, 601-345-8679; 500 Highway 51, Ridgeland, 769-300-31116; lostpizza.com) / Pig & Pint (3139 N. State St., 601-326-6070, pigandpint.com) / Urban Foxes (826 North St., 769-572-5505, urbanfoxesjxn.com)

Best Local Band: Southern Komfort Brass Band

(601-376-9764, facebook.com/southernkomfort)

Though its style is based in the jazz traditions of New Orleans, the Southern Komfort Brass Brand infuses Mississippi's music history into every song it performs.

"We always want to point to where we are," Lorenzo Gayden says, listing B.B. King and Robert Johnson as influences.

The band formed after playing an event in 2010, and over the past 10 years has assembled a repertoire of over 120 songs, 15 of which are original compositions. Its nine members played jazz and marched with bands in college, and many are alumni of Jackson State University's own Sonic Boom of the South.

While Southern Komfort's unique and improvisational covers are popular requests, many people enjoy their originals, like "Nothing But Love" and their recent Spotify single "D.A.F."

The band largely performs on Facebook Live now due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but Gayden says they "plan on hitting the ground running, and being better than when we left off" when gigs re-open.

The nine members include Cedric Eubanks on tenor saxophone; Terry Miller, Corey Hannah and Joseph Handy on trumpets; Lorenzo Gayden and Eric James on trombones; Jamie Abrams on sousaphone; Gerard Howard on bass drum; and Timothy Boyd on snare drum. —Kyle Hamrick

Finalists: 601 LIVE (601-735-8778, facebook.com/601liveband) / The Ballard Journeay Show (ballardjourneayshow.com) / Burnham Road (artistecard.com/burnhamroad) / Chad Wesley Band (chadwesley.com) / Hairicane (601-750-9991, facebook.com/Hairicane) / Steele Heart (601-832-5351, facebook.com/Steele-Heart)

Best College Student Hangout: M-Bar Sports Grill

(6340 Ridgewood Court Drive, 601-398-0999, facebook.com/TheMbarJxn)

M-Bar Sports Grill off County Line Road sports a number of attractions for those needing a break from their studies. Twenty-two televisions adorn the business' walls, 20 clocking in at 55 inches and the remaining two at an impressive 80 inches. DJs like DJ Kool Laid raise the hype levels with their vibing beats, and the kitchen boasts a varied menu.

The sports bar's culinary fare ranges from appetizers like fried green tomatoes, sliders and "M-Dip," which is a mix of cream cheese, diced green onions and seasoned ground chuck served in a bowl surrounded by chips. Entrees include shrimp po boys, wings and philly cheesesteak sandwiches.

M-Bar's drink selection includes domestic and imported beer, wine, and signature drinks such as the hard-hitting "Walk Me Down," made with gin, rum, triple sec, tequila, blue curios, and sweet-and-sour mix. During happy hour, 4 p.m to 7 p.m., M-Bar holds events based on the day of the week. Taco Tuesdays feature $2 steak, seafood and shrimp tacos, while Wing Wednesdays showcase 75-cent Wings. —Julian Mills

Finalists: Bar 3911 (3911 Northview Drive, 601-586-1468, facebook.com/Bar-3911) / Coffee Prose (1619 N. West St.; 769-208-0230; 4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 173; 769-237-6153; coffeeprose.com) / F. Jones Corner (303 N. Farish St., Suite 3227, 601-983-1148, fjonescorner.com) / Fenian's Pub (901 E. Fortification St., 601-948-0055, fenianspub.com) / Fondren Public (2765 Old Canton Road, 769-216-2589, facebook.com/fondrenpublic) / Shucker's Oyster Bar (116 Conestoga Road, Ridgeland, 601-853-0105, shuckersontherez.com)

Best Live Music Venue or Place for Live Music: Duling Hall

(622 Duling Ave., 601-292-7121, dulinghall.com)

Duling Hall, a 350-seat event space in the heart of Fondren, is as vibrant today as when the former school hosted elementary-school recitals 50 years ago. It is in use more than 200 times per year for weddings, parties, receptions and concerts.

"It's a good-sounding room with its old, hollow wood stage," owner and manager Arden Barnett says of the venue's popularity. "We've got great lighting, it's comfortable, there are no bad sight lines, and you can easily do a seated or standing-room-only show. There's a bar in the back and lots of restaurants nearby."

Before the pandemic, 85% of bookings were made by band agents requesting the venue for a concert. "We are known by many musicians and managers. (Duling) is a smaller venue than most bands usually play, but they love it," Barnett says.

Despite COVID, Duling hosted a few shows in November and December at about 25% capacity. "We sold only tables of two or four, no individual tickets," Barnett explains. "There's a barrier around the tables, and we ask patrons to wear masks. Every show sold out. We're trying to help local bands stay alive." —Michele D. Baker

Finalists: BB'S LIVE - Bonny Blair's (1149 Old Fannin Road, Brandon, 769-447-5788) / The Iron Horse Grill (320 W. Pearl St., 601-398-0151, theironhorsegrill.com) / Johnny T's Bistro & Blues (538 N. Farish St., 601-954-1323, johnnytsbistroandblues.com) / Martin's Downtown (214 S. State St., 601-3354-9712, martinsdowntownjxn.com) / Pop's Saloon (2636 S. Gallatin St., 601-961-4747) / Shucker's Oyster Bar (116 Conestoga Road, Ridgeland, 601-853-0105, shuckersontherez.com)

Best Local Cover Band: 601 Live

(601-735-8778, facebook.com/601liveband)

The seven-piece cover band known as 601 Live formed in 2016 from a sheer love of music and its musicians' desire to perform. "From church musicians to playing in the (school) band, each one of us has a musical history," co-lead singer Sedric Brinson says.

The cover band features lead singers Brinson, his father Terrell Brinson and John Majors; Tony Reaves is on keyboards; Mike Smith on guitar; and brothers Eric and Greg Richards play drums and bass guitar.

"We cover a wide variety of genres and styles," Brinson says. "We play soul, rhythm and blues, pop, Top 40; you name it. We have a show ready for any occasion."

The band is available for weddings, banquets, family reunions, parties and even casino shows, and a typical set lasts about two hours. "But a casino gig can last four or five hours," Brinson explains. The band's success seems to rest on a winning charisma between its three principal singers. "Dad is old school," Brinson says. "I'm more new school, and John is the hype. He's a master at getting the crowd energized." —Michele D. Baker

Finalists: Acoustic Crossroads (662-822-9856, facebook.com/AcousticXroads) / Hairicane (601-750-9991, facebook.com/Hairicane) / Mississippi Moonlight (facebook.com/MSMoonlightMusic) / Spunk Monkees (spunkmonkees.com) / Steele Heart (facebook.com/Steele-Heart) / Travelin' Jane (601-613-7236, facebook.com/travelinjanebandandduo)

Best Local Musician: Jason Turner

(jasonturnerband.com)

Jason Turner, 42, started playing guitar when he was 12 years old, inspired by his then-favorite band, Pearl Jam.

Born and raised in Jackson, Turner started playing gigs at 16 and recorded his first album at 18 in two hours with the help of Johnny Crocker in 1997.

Twenty-three years later, Turner has recorded and played his original compositions in venues large and small across the southeast. He released his seventh album, called "Reset," in December 2016, and a ninth album titled "The Fire" in 2020.

"Most of my songs are written about things I've been through, or am going through," he reveals. "They're all true stories."

When the COVID-19 pandemic struck in March, Turner started performing concerts on Facebook Live and in friends' driveways and cul-de-sacs. He also moved the lessons he gives through D.C. Guitars to Skype.

Now a father of two teenage girls, Turner doesn't care to be on the road as much as he once did. "At the end of the day, all I want to do is play my music for a living," he says. "I wouldn't have it any other way now."

Check out his latest single and album "The Fire" on Spotify and iTunes. —Kyle Hamrick

Finalists: Coke Bumaye (cokebumaye.bandcamp.com) / TJ Burnham (facebook.com/TjBurnhamMusic) / Dear Silas (dear-silas.com) / Ron Etheridge (facebook.com/ron.etheridge1) / Russell McGuffee (facebook.com/russell.mcguffee) / Gena Steele (facebook.com/Steele-Heart)

Best Local Singer: Eddie Cotton Jr.

(601-832-4646, facebook.com /eddiecottonblues)

Eddie Cotton Jr. got his musical start more than four decades ago at Christ

Chapel C.O.G.I.C. in Clinton. His father, a preacher, encouraged the congregation and his son to worship with their voices.

"We did a lot of singing," Cotton says, "and it led to a scholarship to Jackson State to play in the jazz band." He was introduced to many other musical styles, "but I always liked Howlin' Wolf, Muddy Waters and B.B. King," he says.

At Sam's Lounge, Cotton saw Sunny Riddell, and later he met King Edward, who invited Cotton to play with him onstage. A stint working at the Subway Lounge on Pearl Street spurred Cotton to form his own band, the Mississippi Cotton Club. The group played local haunts like George St. Grocery, Joker's Tavern, the Alamo Theater and Poet's, but also spent several years touring overseas in Europe and Canada.

Now with multiple albums and top singles under his belt, Cotton does festivals, plays sets at Ameristar Casino in Vicksburg and performs at his father's church.

"Lots of places are shut down because of the pandemic, but eventually it will be over," Cotton says. "And then we're going to have a party." —Michele D. Baker

Finalists: Laura Leigh Burnham (Burnham Road, facebook.com/TjBurnhamMusic) / Amanda Chappell (Travelin' Jane, facebook.com/travelinjanebandandduo) / Dylan Lovett (instagram.com/dilllydawg) / Gena Steele (Steele Heart, facebook.com/Steele-Heart) / Jason Turner (jasonturnerband.com)

Best Place for Cocktails: 4th Avenue Lounge

(209 S. Lamar St., 601-259-5825, 4thavenuejxn.com)

Patrons of 4th Avenue Lounge—a weekend staple for Jackson residents that is open from 4 p.m. to 2 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays—could sample a drink during each hour of operation on both nights and still not exhaust the lounge's extensive cocktail menu.

One such libation is "The 4th," a self-titled drink featuring Ketel One vodka, lemon juice and simple syrup, accented with a sugar rim. The fresh beverage is right at home among the lounge's other fruity offerings like the "Reflection," which is spiked with raspberry liqueur, and the "4tharita," which is mixed with both orange and lime juice.

Guests who visit the South Lamar Street fixture in search of a darker drink can try the Hennessy-laced French 125 or the White Russian with its traditional draught of Kahlua. Any beverage can be paired with a "shareable" plate, many of which are slathered in the establishment's signature "bangin'" sauce. —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Finalists: BB'S LIVE - Bonny Blair's (1149 Old Fannin Road, Brandon, 769-251-0692) / The Briar Patch (1150 Old Cedars Lane, Flora, 601-559-8565, facebook.com/The-Briar-Patch) / Library Lounge at Fairview Inn (734 Fairview St., 601-948-3429, fairviewinn.com) / Names and Faces Lounge (224 E. Capitol St., 601-955-5285, facebook.com/namesandfaceslounge) / Shucker's Oyster Bar (116 Conestoga Road, Ridgeland, 601-853-0105, shuckersontherez.com) / Table 100 (100 Ridge Way, Flowood, 601-420-4202, tableonehundred.com)

Best Place to Dance: Johnny T's Bistro & Blues

(538 N. Farish St., 601-954-1323, johnnytsbistroandblues.com)

The restaurant predicates its name on the legend of "Johnny T," a supposed singer who would arrive at a juke joint in a nice vehicle and play throughout the night, or at least until closing hour, only to leave without a notice, discarding an autographed guitar behind as a musical calling card of sorts.

Johnny T's Bistro and Blues adds to the downtown culinary landscape with blue-plate lunch specials featuring southern staples like red beans and rice, pork chops with gravy and baked chicken. Dinner, however, takes on an aquatic flair as most dishes include shrimp, crab or fish as the centerpiece.

The building's layout lends to a comfortable and intimate atmosphere since dining and musical entertainment go hand-in-hand at this familiar spot. The blending of cuisine and tunes extends to the upstairs private lounge as well.

Johnny T's is open Tuesday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and then 4:30 p.m. until close, and on Saturdays and Sundays from 6 p.m. to close. —Mike McDonald

Finalists: Bar 3911 (3911 Northview Drive, 601-586-1468, facebook.com/Bar-3911) / F. Jones Corner (303 N. Farish St., Suite 3227, 601-983-1148, fjonescorner.com) / Ole Tavern on George Street (416 George St., 601-960-2700, oletavern.com) / Pop's Saloon (2636 S. Gallatin St., 601-961-4747) / Shucker's Oyster Bar (116 Conestoga Road, Ridgeland, 601-853-0105, shuckersontherez.com) / VIBE Jxn (6390 Ridgewood Road, 769-233-8713, vibejxn.com)

Best Virtual Music Performance: Rita Brent

(comedic singing, ritabrent.com)

Rita Brent expresses herself through comedy, music and satirical prayers. "Comedy and music are avenues to share my message," she explains. In 2018, her music video "Can You Rock Me Like a Pothole"—filmed on Mill Street—went viral on social media. "I felt that the potholes were starting to define Jackson, instead of the new Civil Rights Museum. There's lots of things Jackson has going for it." (Mill Street has since been completely repaved.) Her song "Quarantine Shuffle" targeted social distancing.

Last September, Brent released "Kamala" ahead of the November election. She sings, "When Joe Biden selected her, I saw attempts to disregard or belittle her, and I was triggered. I saw myself in her."

The comedienne traveled back from Brooklyn to Jackson to record the song. "I wanted people to be serious about voting. It's a song with a purpose," she says.

Recently, Brent and her wife moved to Atlanta, but Brent is still a Mississippi girl at heart. "When I perform around the world, I represent Mississippi. I hope that I shine a positive light on my city and state." —Michele D. Baker

Finalists: Hunter Gibson (huntergibson.com) / Dylan Lovett (instagram.com/dilllydawg) / Lovin' Ledbetter (lovinledbetter.com) / Stephanie Luckett (stefuniemusic.com) / Travelin' Jane (601-613-7236, facebook.com/travelinjanebandandduo) / Jason Turner (jasonturnerband.com)

Best Place to Play Pool: The Green Room

(444 Bounds St., 601-718-7665, facebook.com/The-Green-Room)

The Green Room, a long-time pool hall in Jackson, returns to win this category once again. Open for more than 20 years, the business boasts 18 pool tables as well as a bar and grill that serves ribs, T-bones, wings, burgers, fries, fried okra, potato salad, baked beans and salad, as well as beverages.

While visitors regularly stop by the tavern to share a drink or grab a cue, those with competitive spirit can opt to up the ante by participating in one of its monthly nine-ball pool tournaments, which usually attract people from across the southeast.

The Green Room also offers catering services, providing family meal packs and hosting small parties. Daytime sharks and night owls alike can shoot pool from noon to 2 a.m. seven days a week. —Julian Mills

Finalists: Dockery Grill (6791 S. Siwell Road, Byram, 601-665-4758, facebook.com/Dockery-Grill) / Last Call Sports Grill (1428 Old Square Road, 601-713-2700, lastcallsportsgrill.com) / The "Little" Pub in Ridgeland (387 Highway 51, Ridgeland, 601-898-2225, facebook.com/TheLittlePubRidgelandMS) / Pop's Saloon (2636 S. Gallatin St., 601-961-4747) / Sam's Lounge (5035 Interstate 55 N. Frontage Road, 601-983-2526) / Shucker's Oyster Bar (116 Conestoga Road, Ridgeland, 601-853-0105, shuckersontherez.com)

Best Service Industry Hangout: Capitol Grill

(5050 Interstate 55 N., Suite F, 601-899-8845, capitolgrillofjackson.com)

Capitol Grill owner Robert "Corky" Elliott describes it as a "laid back sports bar" with a family-friendly atmosphere and numerous regulars who have cheerfully walked through the business' doors time and time again since it opened in 2013.

The restaurant/bar provides enough televisions to allow nearly everyone to watch their

favorite SEC team, and the kitchen makes all of its food from scratch, down to its barbecue sauce. The menu includes salads, pizzas with toppings such as mushrooms and caramelized onions, red beans and rice, catfish, ribeye steaks, and appetizers like fried pickles, tamales and jumbo wings.

At the bar, in addition to beer and wine, patrons can order specialty cocktails like The Capitol Mojito, mint-infused Shellback rum mixed with agave nectar, fresh lime juice and soda. —Julian Mills

Finalists: Bar 3911 (3911 Northview Drive, 601-586-1468, facebook.com/Bar-3911) / BB'S LIVE - Bonny Blair's (1149 Old Fannin Road, Brandon, 769-447-5788) / F. Jones Corner (303 N. Farish St., Suite 3227, 601-983-1148, fjonescorner.com) / Fenian's Pub (901 E. Fortification St., 601-948-0055, fenianspub.com) / Sam's Lounge (5035 Interstate 55 N. Frontage Road, 601-983-2526) / Urban Foxes (826 North St., 769-572-5505, urbanfoxesjxn.com)

Best Place to Drink Cheap: Last Call Sports Grill

(1428 Old Square Road, 601-713-2700, lastcallsportsgrill.com)

Since opening Last Call Sports Grill in 2004, Rahul Chaddha credits the business' reputation as a great place to drink cheap to the restaurant's happy hour, which attracts a number of regulars.

"We've got a strong base of loyal customers who come in for both the drinks and our small-plate food specials," Chaddha says.

Last Call's happy hour runs from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. and features 2-for-1 specials on all mixed drinks. Last Call also offers a loyalty card that rewards 10% back on every dollar spent, on top of other drink specials that run throughout the week.

"I want to give a special thanks to all the regulars who supported us during the pandemic," Chaddha says. "Thanks to the people of Jackson who gave us that support, we're back at full strength. They made the right call by choosing Last Call." —Dustin Cardon

Finalists: Capitol Grill (5050 Interstate 55 N., Suite F, 601-899-8845, capitolgrillofjackson.com) / Fenian's Pub (901 E. Fortification St., 601-948-0055, fenianspub.com) / Martin's Downtown (214 S. State St., 601-3354-9712, martinsdowntownjxn.com) / Pelican Cove (3999A Harbor Walk Drive, Ridgeland, 601-605-1865, pelicancovegrill.net) / Sam's Lounge (5035 Interstate 55 N. Frontage Road, 601-983-2526) / Shucker's Oyster Bar (116 Conestoga Road, Ridgeland, 601-853-0105, shuckersontherez.com)

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JFP StaffWed, 03 Feb 2021 13:44:03 -0600https://jacksonfreepress.com/news/2021/feb/03/best-jackson-2021-nightlife-and-music/
Best of Jackson 2021: Community and Culturehttps://jacksonfreepress.com/news/2021/feb/03/best-jackson-2021-community-and-culture/

Best Arts Organization, Best Place to Get Married: Mississippi Museum of Art

(380 S. Lamar St., 601-960-1515, msmuseumart.org)

With its series of constantly rotating exhibits and a substantial permanent collection, the Mississippi Museum of Art offers something for fans of nearly every artistic medium and period. For Director of Marketing Jana Brady, these varied stylings foster MMA's aim: conversation.

"Our hope for the local community is that you can see and experience art where you normally wouldn't and to create a place where you can have comfortable conversations about art and about Mississippi's past, present and future," Brady says.

This sense of comfort and familiarity have led many Mississippians to choose the museum as their wedding venue, and Brady believes that the space lends itself to such a choice.

"The museum offers a wedding experience like no other," Brady remarks. "There's a beautiful indoor and outdoor space, and we have rotating collections, so they have their own entertainment by having (their wedding) at the museum."

Anyone who married at the museum during 2020 had the special privilege of having works from masters Van Gogh, Monet and Degas on display nearby in the galleries for their special occasion, as the museum has played host to an exhibit featuring the European artists and their contemporaries.

The museum's exhibits are open to visitors and members alike, with certain hours designated as "senior hours" to offset COVID-19 concerns. —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Best Arts Organization Finalists

HeARTworks (1100 W. Capitol St., 601-353-2759, stewpot.org) / Mississippi Arts Commission (501 N. West St., Suite 1101A, 601-359-6030, arts.ms.gov) / Mississippi Symphony Orchestra (201 E. Pascagoula St., 601-960-1565, msorchestra.com) / New Stage Theatre (1100 Carlisle St., 601-948-3533, newstagetheatre.com)

Best Place to Get Married Finalists

Bridlewood of Madison (3024 Highway 22, Madison, 601-707-4024, thebarnatbridlewood.com) / The Cedars (4145 Old Canton Road, 601-366-5552) / Fairview Inn (734 Fairview St., 601-948-3429, fairviewinn.com) / First Baptist Church Jackson (431 N. State St., 601-949-1900, firstbaptistjackson.org) / Ice House (251 W. South St., 601-398-3200, icehousevenue.com) / McClain Lodge (314 Clark Creek Road, Brandon, 601-829-1101, mcclain.ms)

Best Festival, Best Annual Event: Hal's St. Paddy's Parade and Festival

(March, halsstpaddysparade.com)

Thirty-seven years ago, Malcolm White and a group of his friends dressed as characters from various media—he was Colonel Sanders—to parade through Jackson's streets. But what originally started out as lighthearted fun has now grown into one of Jackson's most unique cultural events, now named after White's late brother, Hal, who was an ardent supporter of the yearly festival.

As the years went by, parade participants formalized into krewes, with many groups getting together every year to plan around that year's theme or around an original idea they may have that they believe will contribute to the merriment.

Described by parade enthusiasts as Mississippi's "green Mardi Gras," the event begins at Hal and Mal's, circling past the Old Capitol Museum, the Governor's Mansion and the Westin Hotel en route back to its starting point.

This mid-Jackson celebration of the good work of UMMC's Children's of Mississippi hospital features Mississippi blues singers, along with a hearty helping of New Orleans-style brass music, which provides a soundtrack for the after-parties that continue long into the night.

Although White cancelled the 2020 parade due to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, plans for the 2021 parade are in full swing, with parade organizers planning to retain the previous theme: "Here's Looking at RUDE, Kid" if they receive permission from the city, which is still pending. The upcoming parade will also feature last year's grand marshal, Trace Alston, and is slated to take place on the fourth Saturday of March, with the usual 70,000-plus revelers expected to join in the fun. —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Best Festival Finalists

Bright Lights Belhaven Nights (August, brightlightsbelhavennights.com) / Cathead Jam (May, catheadjam.com) / CelticFest Mississippi (March, celticfestms.org) / Farish Street Heritage Festival (October, farishstreetheritagefestival.com) / Mississippi Anime Festival (March, msanimefest.com) / Mississippi Craft Beer Festival (June, fondren.org)

Best Annual Event Finalists

Bright Lights Belhaven Nights (August, brightlightsbelhavennights.com) / Cathead Jam (May, catheadjam.com) / Jackson Indie Music Week (January, jxnindiemusic.com) / Mississippi Comic Con (June, mississippicomiccon.com) / Mistletoe Marketplace (November, mistletoemarketplace.com)"601-362-9676, jacksonacademy.org)

Best Dance Group: Ballet Magnificat!

(5406 Interstate 55, 601-977-1001, balletmagnificat.com)

Founded in 1986 by husband-and-wife team Keith and Kathy Thibodeaux, Ballet Magnificat! is an arts organization dedicated to celebrating the word of God through dance. The inter-denominational Protestant ministry tours the world as the first professional Christian ballet company.

Ballet Magnificat's School of the Arts offers dance classes for students as young as 3 years old through adult ages.

Magnificat! Youth Ballet and MiniMag! often perform at local nursing homes, schools and churches, and the Summer Dance Intensive and Teachers Workshop bring hundreds of students from around the world to Jackson for a unique technical and spiritual experience.

Ballet Magnificat! also started the Dance Program at Belhaven University, providing curriculum, faculty and facilities; it has now grown into a full Dance Major program accredited by the National Association of Schools of Dance. The studio also helped Belhaven University start the school's dance program.

Most recently, the company has added Ballet Magnificat! Brazil, headquartered in Curitiba, which includes a trainee program and a performance company, and dancers from all over South and Central America proudly proclaim God's word. "Our hearts' desire ... is to be faithful to our lord Jesus Christ and go where He wants us to go," Keith says. —Michele D. Baker

Finalists: Dance Works Studio (1104 E. Northside Drive, Clinton, 601-720-1885, dwsms.com) / Dancing Dolls (1410 Ellis Ave., 770-265-1111, dollhousedancefactory.com) / Mississippi Metropolitan Ballet (110 Homestead Drive, Madison; 601-853-4508; 106 Autumn Ridge Place, Suite 3 & 4, Brandon; 601-992-9016; msmetroballet.com) / Montage Theatre of Dance (608 Hinds Blvd., Raymond, 601-857-3460, hindscc.edu) / Prancing J-Settes (1400 John R. Lynch St., 601-979-2026, sonicboomofthesouth.com) / Xpress Dance Company (2160 Main St., Suite D, Madison; 601-853-0826; 155 W. Government St., Brandon; 601-954-6268; xdance.net)

Best Tourist Attraction, Best Museum: Mississippi Civil Rights Museum

(222 North St., Suite 2205, 601-576-6800, mcrm.mdah.ms.gov)

The Mississippi Civil Rights Museum's eight galleries allow Mississippi students and visitors from around the globe to learn about Black Mississippians' struggle against centuries of systemic oppression and their fight for civil rights.

"Students weren't taught this in the history books," Pamela Junior, director of the Two Mississippi Museums, says.

"People walk in and understand that (the fight for civil rights) wasn't just about people like Rosa Parks—who didn't live in Mississippi. Our heroes and sheroes are right here, and they did astonishing things."

The museum, which has been nationally recognized for its contribution to the study of southern civil-rights history, exacerbates this sense of astonishment with its interactive exhibits. A jail cell, a replica of the enclosures at Parchman Prison Farm, is located inside the museum, along with a series of mugshots of the Freedom Riders who were once imprisoned there.

The centerpiece of the museum, dubbed "This Little Light of Mine," however, sings literally and figuratively with hope. In addition, a model classroom, which highlights the stark differences between white and Black schools, showcases a video describing the ramifications of the Brown v. the Board of Education decision.

Another hallway houses five "lynching monoliths" engraved with names of known victims of lynching in the state that had the most.

Ultimately, he museum challenges Mississippians and non-Mississippians alike to reckon with the nation's dark history and to take action to forge a brighter future, an opportunity that the Jacksonian community appreciates enough to vote for the establishment in the Best of Jackson series year after year since its debut. —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Best Tourist Attraction Finalists

Brandon Amphitheater (8190 Rock Way, Brandon, 601-724-2726, brandonamphitheater.com) / Fondren (916-812-5678, fondren.org) / McClain Resort (874 Holly Bush Road, Brandon, 601-829-1101, mcclain.ms) / Mississippi Comic Con (1200 Mississippi St., mississippicomiccon.com) / Mississippi Museum of Natural Science (2148 Riverside Drive, 601-576-6000, mdwfp.com/museum) / Two Mississippi Museums (222 North St., mdah.ms.gov/2mm)

Best Museum Finalists

Agriculture and Forestry Museum (1150 Lakeland Drive, 601-432-4500, msagmuseum.org) / Mississippi Children's Museum (2145 Museum Blvd., 601-981-5469, mschildrensmuseum.org) / Mississippi Museum of Art (380 S. Lamar St., 601-960-1515, msmuseumart.org) / Mississippi Museum of Natural Science (2148 Riverside Drive, 601-576-6000, mdwfp.com/museum) / Smith Robertson Museum (528 Bloom St., 601-960-1457, jacksonms.gov/smith-robertson-museum)

Best Live Theatre/Theatrical Group: New Stage Theatre

(1100 Carlisle St., 601-948-3533, newstagetheatre.com)

Although the COVID-19 pandemic changed the shape of New Stage Theatre's 2020 season, Artistic Director Francine Reynolds believes that the variety of programs Mississippi's only professional theater company offered during this time has ensured its continued success.

"(We offer) education programs, which creates the next adult audience, and we have a lot of extras: children's shows, holiday shows and two different new play series," Reynolds says.

The Eudora Welty New Play series focuses on the development of new plays, while the Mississippi Plays series either features the works of Mississippi writers or depicts the lives of Mississippians, with many stage selections doing both.

New Stage also offers a series of on-demand pre-recorded solo shows that people could stream from anywhere, such as "Why I Live at the P.O." and the upcoming "Fannie Lou Hamer."

This season offered a socially distant spin on these celebrations of Mississippi life, introducing its "Thursday Night Virtual Plays, Conversations and Cocktails" series that featured live readings of plays, one of which revisited "Pipeline," the last show to be performed before a live audience at the theater. Reynolds cited the play as being among her favorites, although she quips that "the most recent play is always (her) favorite."

New Stage also paired each live reading with a recipe for what we all really needed in 2020: a hard drink. —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Finalists: Black Rose Theatre Company (103 Black St., Brandon, 601-852-1293, blackrosetheatre.wordpress.com) / Enchanting Memories Entertainment (662-590-2748, facebook.com/enchantingmemoriesentertainment) / MADDRAMA (601-454-1183, maddrama.com) / Magically Perfect (504-502-2847, facebook.com/magicallyperfectentertainment) / Mississippi Children's Music Theater (100 Post Oak Road, Madison, 601-201-8558, mschildrensmusictheater.com)

Best Category We Left Off: Best Tattoo Artist

Many consider tattoos to be one of the best forms of self-expression, art they can display to the world. As commonplace as tattoos have become, it's no wonder that Jacksonians would want to highlight the talented artists who hone their craft in the metro by voting that they would like to see a Best Tattoo Artist category.

Since tattoos are generally permanent forms of body art, finding a qualified tattoo artist who can enact your vision for your tattoo can be key, and Jackson is rife with both outstanding shops and artists. While this category does not exist in the current Best of Jackson series, readers can browse the finalists for Best Tattoo/Piercing Parlor in the Urban Living section to see which shops they may want to consider. —Amber Helsel

Finalists: Best Children's Entertainment / Best Couple / Best Home-Based Business / Best Place for a First Date / Best Virtual Church Service

Best Art Gallery: Fondren Art Gallery

(3242 North State St., 601-981-9222, fondrenartgallery.com)

Seventeen years ago, Richard McKey built and designed Fondren Art Gallery as "a multi-use building and business" to create art and promote local, national and international artists. Today, with more than 30 artists and 500 pieces on display, the gallery endeavors to offer art of exceptional quality at affordable prices.

"There's some really funky, crazy art in there, but there's some fine art also," McKey says, "I like that. I don't want it to be a gallery that just pleases one type of person. I want to be able to attract, entertain and please a lot of different people."

In addition to pieces from every medium, Fondren Art Gallery also offers a custom framing service and a music studio for instrumental lessons and live performances. Although COVID-19 has limited the number of customers in the gallery at any one time, McKey offers a full catalogue of works through his online store.

A creator himself with a background in public art, carpentry and music, McKey hopes the new year will see in-store business and live music "fired up again." And with construction on the road in front of his gallery finished, Fondren Art Gallery is more accessible than ever. —Kyle Hamrick

Finalists: AND Gallery (133 Millsaps Ave., andgallery.org) / Brown's Fine Art and Framing (630 Fondren Place, 601-982-4844, brownsfineart.com) / Fischer Galleries (736 S. President St., 601-291-9115, fischergalleries.com) / OffBeat (151 Wesley Ave., 601-376-9404, offbeatjxn.com) / View Gallery (1491 Canton Mart Road, Suite 7, 601-278-3991, viewgalleryart.com)

Best Local Podcast: Save JXN

(savejxn.com)

After 30 years of living in south Jackson, Clay Edwards concluded that "there aren't very many loud-mouth conservatives, and it felt like a niche that wasn't being catered to."

A proponent of the capital city who bears a "Welcome to Jackson" tattoo on his arm, Edwards received backlash when he shared a video he made with a drone that showcased many of the abandoned buildings in Jackson to his Facebook page.

"I started getting attacked by people calling me racist and all those other things, just because I was posting pictures of these empty buildings," he says.

To present his intent and beliefs more clearly, he decided: "I should probably start talking to tell my side of the story." Thus, he began his savejxn.com website where he posts podcasts, as well as videos and other materials. His website is still a "work in progress," he says, but Save Jxn has garnered more than 26,000 followers on Facebook, 16,000 followers on Instagram and 1,600 subscribers on YouTube.

His wife, Crystal Edwards, sometimes co-hosts the podcast, which Clay describes as "Jackson, Mississippi's only right-leaning news and politics-based podcast."

"I like to consider us the No. 1 source for an alternative opinion on the local news, kinda the Jacktown Alex Jones, minus the conspiracy theories," Edwards says. —Richard Coupe

Finalists: EmpowHER Podcast with Krississippi / From The Heart of A / Key to the City (facebook.com/key2thecitypod) / Othor Cain Media (facebook.com/othorcainmedia) / Reality Breached (realitybreached.com) / Token Talk

Best Public Forum/Speaker Series: Mississippi Black Leadership Summit

(1072 W. Lynch St., 601-353-8452, facebook.com/MississippiBlackLeadershipSummit)

The Mississippi Black Leadership Summit started over 10 years ago as a place for elected officials and community members to create solutions to community issues like public education, economic development, voting rights, criminal rights and environmental justice. "We began as a monthly luncheon," Nsombi Lambright, executive director of One Voice, says. "Over the years, it evolved into a full conference event."

The annual Summit brings together sheriffs, tax collectors and assessors, mayors, attorneys, judges and others. In 2020, the slate included state Reps. Chris Bell and Kabir Karriem and Emmy-nominated actress Aunjanue Ellis ("The Help," "Get On Up"). "We come together for strategy and to share best practices across the state and south," Lambright says. "The State of Black Mississippi" was the final panel.

The Summit will continue to bring together diverse leaders. "We want (them) to play a strong leadership role—guiding the agenda and holding the space so community people can talk to their elected officials," Lambright says. —Michele D. Baker

Finalists: Empowering Progressive Speakers Toastmasters Club (4780 N. Interstate 55, 662-251-6517, toastmasters.org) / Millsaps Arts & Lecture Series (1701 N. State St., 601-974-1000, millsaps.edu/major-happenings/arts-lecture-series) / Operation Shoestring (1711 Bailey Ave., 601-353-6336, operationshoestring.org) / Refill Cafe Friday Forum (136 S. Adams St., 601-540-7231, refilljackson.org) / Save Jxn (savejxn.com)

Best Socially Distanced Activity in Jackson: McClain Safari Tours

(874 Holly Bush Road, Brandon, 601-829-1101, mcclain.ms)

Buddy and Joni McClain, the owners of McClain Resort in Brandon, first kept a private collection of animals, but visitors enjoyed the animals just as much as they did. Thus, the McClain Safari Park and Tours came into being in May 2018.

More than 500 animals from 50 different species call the 2,000-acre park home, Safari Park Director Matt Jurney explains. Guided tours began with wagons pulled by tractors, but the pandemic caused the park to open self-guided, drive-through tours over the summer. Families can still enjoy the zebras, giraffes and other exotic animals while maintaining safe social-distancing practices in their own vehicles.

"By no means was COVID-19 a good thing, but it allowed us to adapt and make some good changes," Jurney says. On average, roughly 200 cars visit the park each weekend, doling out provided feed to the waiting animals. —Kyle Hamrick

Finalists: Capital City Kayak Adventures (601-953-7615, capitalcitykayaks.com) / Chalk Walk (Northpark Fall Fest, 1200 E. County Line Road, Ridgeland, 601-863-2300, visitnorthpark.com) / Dinner at/Staying Home / Museum-to-Market Trail (jxntrailblazers.com) / Reservoir Overlook (Natchez Trace Parkway, Milepost 105.6, natcheztracetravel.com)

Best Nonprofit Organization: The Mustard Seed

(1085 Luckney Road, Brandon, 601-992-3556, mustardseedms.org)

At age 21, adults with disabilities no longer qualify for special-ed services through Mississippi public schools, and "their worlds to get smaller," The Mustard Seed's Community Relations Director Mandy Sisson says. The organization offers its 40 "seedsters," who range in age from 21 to their mid-70s, the opportunity to learn about the arts, but the nonprofit's goal stretches far beyond the walls of its Brandon campus.

"They have an opportunity to live a full life that's engaged and fulfilling," Sisson says. "We aren't hiding them on campus. We want them out in the community, showing what they can contribute to society."

The Seedsters create hand-painted ceramic art, which the nonprofit sells in its gift shop and at locations in the metro. The sales constitute 20% of the Mustard Seed's budget. —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Finalists: CARA - Community Animal Rescue & Adoption (960 N. Flag Chapel Road, 601-922-7575, carams.org) / The Good Samaritan Center (114 Millsaps Ave., 601-355-6276, good-sam.com) / Mississippi Children's Museum (2145 Museum Blvd., 601-981-5469, mschildrensmuseum.org) / My Brother's Keeper (407 Orchard Park, Ridgeland, 769-216-2455, mbkinc.org) / Ronald McDonald House (UMMC) (2524 N. State St., 601-981-5683, rmhcms.org) / WFBC Inc. (769-257-0073, wfbc-inc.business.site)

Best Virtual Fundraiser/Charity: Mistletoe Marketplace

(in-person/hybrid, Junior League of Jackson, 805 Riverside Drive, 601-948-2357, mistletoemarketplace.com)

Mistletoe Marketplace recently celebrated 40 years, "but had to reinvent and reimagine Mistletoe Marketplace 2020" due to COVID-19, as steering committee chair Lori Hill Marshall explains, in order "to help the economy, but in a safe way."

The Junior League of Jackson worked with State Health Officer Dr. Thomas Dobbs to determine the safest strategy. As a result, the organization decided to limit physical attendance and hold shopping shifts at three hours apiece.

"We hosted the bands, auctions and luncheon speaker Tim Tebow online," Marshall says.

As a result, they raised about $1 million to support early literacy, children's health and social development for youth. —Michele D. Baker

Finalists: 12Ks for the Holidays (Good Samaritan Center, 114 Millsaps Ave., 601-355-6276, goodsamaritancenter.org) / Best Dressed Jackson (The American Cancer Society, 1380 Livingston Lane, 800-227-2345, acsevents.org) / Discovery Night - Remix! (Mississippi Children's Museum, 2145 Museum Blvd., 601-981-5469, mschildrensmuseum.org) / Pink Fridays (ICTV & The Steven James Foundation, ictelevision.com) / Real Men Wear Pink (The American Cancer Society, 1380 Livingston Lane, 800-227-2345, acsevents.org) / Refill Jackson Initiative (136 S. Adams St., 601-540-7231, refilljackson.org)

Best Radio Personality or Team: Nate and Traci

(WUSJ 96.3, yourcountryus96.com)

Country music lovers across the metro area depend on WUSJ's morning team Nate and Traci to begin their day. The affable duo put fun and family on the menu each morning. "We are live, local and we were both born and raised here," Traci Lee says. "Our listeners relate to us because we've known each other for more than 20 years, and we still like each other."

"Well, we like each other 60% of the time," Nate West jokes. "We talk about real stuff. ... I'm a single dad to a terrific daughter, and we always tease Traci because she's not dating right now."

The pair like to laugh, but their relationship also demonstrates genuine respect as well. "I feel so lucky to be working with someone of Nate's caliber. He's a legend in this market," Lee says. "And I'm so grateful for our listeners. If we can make them smile, we've done our jobs."

Hear Nate and Traci on Your Country US 96 (96.3 FM) Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. and catch the "Best Of" show on Saturdays from 5 a.m. to 10 a.m. —Michele D. Baker

Finalists: Christiana Williams (WJMI 99.7, wjmi.com) / DJ Scrap Dirty (WRBJ 97.7, thebeatofthecapital.com) / Mista Maine (WRBJ 97.7, thebeatofthecapital.com) / Percy Davis (WOAD 103.5, woad.com) / Tambra Cherie (WRBJ 97.7, thebeatofthecapital.com)

Best Stage Play (In-Person or Virtual): "Mamma Mia"

(Jackson Academy Theater) (4908 Ridgewood Road, 601-362-9676, jacksonacademy.org/arts-music/theater)

Despite the difficulties the theater community has faced this year, Jackson Academy managed to put together a successful run of the ABBA musical "Mamma Mia!"

"It's a huge challenge to put on a full-scale production when you're dealing with teenagers who have school schedules, but this year was particularly difficult with COVID-19 protocols," Director of Theatre Arts Kerri Sanders reflects.

Students at the Jackson private school began rehearsals—wearing masks and submitting to temperature checks—in July, and Sanders believes that her students admirably rose to the challenge. "Even though they're student actors, they're held to the same standards as professional actors," Sanders says. This included a professional orchestra and professional costuming, making the show shine during its three evening performances at the Jackson Academy Performing Arts Center, which was filled to 25% of its capacity.

Senior Emma Collums, who starred as Donna, and junior Gretchen Morris, who played Sophie, were supported by a talented cast of juniors and seniors who give new meaning to that old adage: "The show must go on!" —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Finalists: "Roald Dahl's Matilda the Musical" (New Stage Theatre, 1100 Carlisle St., 601-948-3533, newstagetheatre.com) / "The Rocky Horror Burlesque Show" (Black Hat Shows, 601-376-9005, facebook.com/BlackHatBurlesque) / "Rocky Horror Picture Show" (Fondren Theatre Workshop, 4145 Old Canton Road, fondrentheatreworkshop.org) / Thursday Night Virtual Plays: Conversations and Cocktails (New Stage Theatre, 1100 Carlise St., 601-948-3533, newstagetheatre.com) / "Why I Live at the P.O." (New Stage Theatre, 1100 Carlisle St., 601-948-3533, newstagetheatre.com)

Best Community Garden/Nature Attraction: Natchez Trace Parkway

(601-856-7321, nps.gov/natr)

The Natchez Trace Parkway encompasses the 440-mile stretch from Nashville, Tenn., to its namesake Natchez, Miss., and some of its scenic trails are nestled in Hinds County. "I think the fact that it's a national park unit really (brings people to the area)," park ranger Perri Spreiser says. "We protect 423 sites across the country, and each is a little different."

The Natchez Trace Parkway harbors plenty of hiking trails, from a "10-minute stroll to a 10-mile hike," as Spreiser puts it. Many of the trails and scenic views highlight the parkway's original inhabitants: the Native American Chickasaw tribe.

The crowning jewel of the Jackson stretch of the parkway is a large reservoir featuring overlooks and trails with panoramic views of the 33,000-acre lake. The Cypress Swamp, just north of the reservoir, boasts alligators swimming just beneath its boardwalk trail. —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Finalists: The Art Garden (Mississippi Museum of Art, 429 S. West St., 601-973-3681, msmuseumart.org) / Eudora Welty House & Garden (1119 Pinehurst St., 601-354-5219, mdah.ms.gov) / Green Grass Acres (534 S. Farish St., 470-645-3669, mainvest.com/b/green-grass-acres-llc-jackson) / LeFleur's Bluff State Park (3315 Lakeland Terrace, 601-987-3923, mdwfp.com) / Mynelle Gardens (4736 Clinton Blvd., 601-960-1894)

Best Radio Station: WJMI

(99.7, 99 Jams; 731 S. Pear Orchard Road, Suite 27, Ridgeland; 601-957-1300; WJMI.com)

WJMI's roots run deep in Jackson. For nearly 50 years, the station has been No. 1 in the hearts and minds of its listeners. "It's fitting that we are first in our target market, hip-hop," Christiana Williams says. The on-air personality also works as promotion and sales director for Alpha Media, which owns the station. "We have such dedicated and loyal listeners."

WJMI disc jockeys spin urban contemporary music, introducing brand-new hits and nodding to the past with an occasional golden oldie.

The keys to WJMI's longevity, Williams asserts, include its seasoned staff, loyal and involved listeners and the station's strong community ties. "We have long-standing relationships with our partners," she says.

Last Christmas, the station partnered with the Jackson Police Department on a toy drive, where WJMI helped 100 families by giving nearly $20,000 worth of toys. The station also bestows some lucky listeners with monetary prizes during the holiday season, giving away $5,500 in total this last December.

"Our long-term relationships with local businesses, nonprofits and service clubs allow us to keep giving back," Williams says. —Michele D. Baker

Finalists: WMPN (MPB 91.3, mpbonline.org/radio) / WMSI (Miss 103, miss103.iheart.com) / WUSJ (96.3, yourcountryus96.com) / WYOY (Y101, 101.7, y101.com)

Best Reason to Live in Jackson: 'It's Home'

Nearly 165,000 people call the city of Jackson home, and while some residents are native Jacksonians, others chose to put down roots in the capital city.

While visitors flock to Jackson to take advantage of its unique yearly offerings, like the state fair, WellsFest, and Hal's St. Paddy's Parade and Festival, locals enjoy the full measure of excitement that comes from living in Mississippi's largest city.

Whether it's the numerous colleges and universities scattered across the metro area, the constantly evolving food scene, the unbeatable nightlife or the proximity to natural attractions like the Natchez Trace and the Reservoir, the "city with soul" draws the attention of people from all walks of life.

Jackson shows its soul best through its willingness to embrace a brighter tomorrow, symbolized in part by the new state flag that now flies over the Capitol building downtown, just a block away from the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum that's dedicated to the true, complex and often tragic story of Mississippi's past. —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Finalists: Affordable Housing / Community / Culture / Fondren / Food / People

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JFP StaffWed, 03 Feb 2021 13:26:27 -0600https://jacksonfreepress.com/news/2021/feb/03/best-jackson-2021-community-and-culture/
Best of Jackson 2021: Peoplehttps://jacksonfreepress.com/news/2021/feb/03/best-jackson-2021-people/

Best Barista: Victoria Fortenberry

(Cups Espresso Cafe, 2757 Old Canton Road, 601-362-7422, cupsespressocafe.com)

"I call myself the surliest barista in Jackson," Victoria Fortenberry, a barista at Cups Espresso Cafe in Fondren, says. Meanwhile, her coworkers, however, call her "Uncle Vic" for her loving and protective personality.

Since 2015, with a year-long stint in the middle as a bartender, the 24-year-old has served cortados and other drinks she can make with her eyes shut to scores of regulars and visitors alike.

The Rankin County native found a community at Cups "listening to music and drinking too much coffee," she says. "I pretty much grew up in this coffee shop."After graduating homeschool in 2015, Fortenberry tried out three majors at three different colleges before realizing it wasn't for her. She also plays the keyboard while her sister, Katie Fortenberry, plays the drums for Double Take, a musical duo they formed three years ago.

Fortenberry likes that Cups' beans are ethically sourced and locally roasted, and is grateful to keep working amid the COVID-19 pandemic. "I feel very privileged to work not only with the family we have at Cups, but with the family we have in the neighborhood," Fortenberry says. —Kyle Hamrick

Finalists: Kree' Blackwell (Bar 3911, 3911 Northview Drive, 601-586-1468) / Cody Cox (Urban Foxes, 826 North St., 769-572-5505, urbanfoxesjxn.com) / Jessica Glenn (The Bean, 2914 N. State St., 769-572-5752, facebook.com/thebeanjxn) / Cameron Phillips / Joey Tannehill (Cups Espresso Cafe, multiple locations, cupsespressocafe.com) / Jordan White (The Bean, 2914 N. State St., 769-572-5752, facebook.com/thebeanjxn)

​Best Chef: Godfrey Morgan

(Godfrey's, 2460 Terry Road, 601-398-3602, facebook.com/Godfreys)

Godfrey Morgan, the owner and chef of Godfrey's, describes his restaurant and catering service on Terry Road as his "little island in south Jackson." Though the restaurant's menu and ambience are inspired by his Caribbean roots, the 41-year-old says his kitchen serves everything from oxtail and jerk chicken to veggie spring rolls and queso fries.

Born in Jamaica, Morgan grew up in the Cayman Islands before he moved to Jackson, where he completed culinary school at Hinds Community College in 2004. After working with world-class chefs in casinos in Mississippi and Louisiana, Morgan became the executive chef at Jackson State University in 2007, where he would stay for the next 11 years.

In 2018, after operating a catering service on the side, Morgan opened a full-time catering business that also served takeaway meals once a week. His food was so popular that he opened a full-service restaurant a year later.

Everything on his menu is made from his original recipes in house, fresh every day. He says he likes to go "over the top" to make sure every dish is "always seasoned to perfection."

"I love the joy that food brings," Morgan says. "To me, food is life." —Kyle Hamrick

Finalists: Derek Emerson (CAET Seafood and Oysterette; 1000 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite 9015, Ridgeland; 601-321-9169; caetseafood.com) / Hunter Evans (Elvie's, 809 Manship St., 601-863-8828, elviesrestaurant.com) / Rashanna Newsome (Aplos Simple Mediterranean; 4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 174; 601-714-8989; eataplos.com) / Pierre Pryor (Iron Horse Grill, 320 W. Pearl St., 601-398-0151, theironhorsegrill.com) / Enrika Williams (Fauna Foodworks, 601-287-1276, facebook.com/faunafoodworks) / Connor Wolf (Farmer's Table in Livingston, 1030 Market St., Flora, 601-506-6821, farmerstableinlivingston.com)

Best Bartender: Terrance "T.P." Patton

(Names & Faces Lounge, 224 E. Capitol St., 601-955-5285, facebook.com/namesandfaceslounge)

Terrance Patton, more commonly known by his nickname T.P., owns, manages and bartends at the Names and Faces Lounge in downtown Jackson.

Although his familial roots lie in Memphis, Patton has considered Jackson home since 2003 when he arrived with a band scholarship to Jackson State University. After graduation, he worked as a server, gaining enough of a following and skill that he eventually garnered a spot behind the bar.

"I love being around people. I'm just a people person," Patton says. "I like being the ear of people in everyday situations. I'm like a counselor behind the bar. I can feel what kind of day people are having based on body language and facial expressions."

He completed his bartending certification in Tunica where he learned about a panoply of drinks, signs of customer intoxication, proper wine storage, drink vehicles and other topics. The training comprised three months filled with eight-hour classes.

His motivation for opening the lounge derived from both a desire to be financially independent and a drive to place a friendly eating and drinking establishment where customers can feel comfortable staying for hours—and, perhaps most importantly, return again and again—in the city he calls home. Not only did Page design Names and Faces Lounge, he participated in the construction, and he plans to open a second location in Hattiesburg in the near future. —Mike McDonald

Finalists: Brandi Carter (Elvie's, 809 Manship St., 601-863-8828, elviesrestaurant.com) / Tristan Duplichain / Kurt Monaghan (Hal & Mal's, 200 Commerce St., 601-948-0888, halandmals.com) / Ashley Pullin

​Best Dressed: Angela Phillips

For as long as she can remember, Angela Phillips, 33, has enjoyed assembling outfits that look good and reflect her creative personality. "I can remember my dad when I was younger always saying, 'Wherever you go, you got to make sure you look presentable,'" she says, recalling how he would often wait for her to get her look right before going out.

Phillips grew up in north Jackson, graduated from Murrah High School, and earned a bachelor's degree in biology from Jackson State University in 2012 before completing her MBA at Belhaven University in 2018.

Phillips, now the local leasing manager at Northpark Mall in Ridgeland, strives for outfits that can go from the office to out on the town without sacrificing her personality or professionalism. Drawing inspiration from E! News correspondent Nina Parker, Phillips likes to keep up with what's next in fashion, from earth-toned tops and rose gold jewelry to leather joggers and Steve Madden sneakers. Though every piece bears her touch, Phillips says her personality really shows in her shoes and her earrings.

Offering advice on cultivating one's own style, Phillips believes being yourself is the key. "You are your own brand," she says. —Kyle Hamrick

Finalists: Kyris Brown / Inez Doe / Eric Henderson / Jobeth Leigh Mcintosh / Alex Moore / Hannah Roland

Best Facialist/Esthetician: Arcadia Smith

(BeautifulGorgeous World Skin Care Studio, 5903 Ridgewood Road, Suite 103, 601-899-3154, facebook.com/BeautyBrandJackson)

Licensed esthetician Arcadia Smith has come a long way since graduating from 
Magnolia College of Cosmetology. Now more than a decade later, Smith owns her own business: BeautifulGorgeous World Skin Care Studio. She works by appointment only, providing each client individualized treatments suited to their needs on that day.

"Your skin is completely new every 30 days, so I treat you with a fresh approach each time," she explains. "I offer pH testing, skin surface testing, infrared sauna, microdermabrasion, enzyme peels (and chemical peels). All facials include light therapy," Smith says. A personalized 30-minute appointment is $55, with consultations set at $25.

Smith is also trained to detect and identify melanoma skin cancers, referring them to a physician afterward. Teaching people to care for their skin and prevent problems is a real passion. "I love to educate," she says. "People tend to do better once you break it down so they understand how to take care of their skin and why." —Michele D. Baker

Finalists: Christine Cody (Makeup by Christine Cody, 601-760-2776) / Kellie Donaldson (Cole Facial Clinic, 204 E. Layfair Drive, Flowood, 601-933-2004, colefacialclinic.com) / Jess King (Jess K. Beauty, 769-233-3403) / Savannah Lloyd (Faces, 1115 Highland Colony Parkway, Ridgeland, 601-607-3033, facesdr.com) / Jennifer Palamono / Sara Tisdale (Blackledge Face Center, 1659 Leila Drive, 601-981-3033, blackledgefacecenter.com)

Best Fitness Trainer: Trey Jordan

(Burn Boot Camp, 115 Laurel Park Cove, Suite 107, Flowood; 769-572-4438; burnbootcamp.com)

Trey Jordan, a Ridgeland resident who became a certified fitness instructor and personal trainer in 2019, says he was quite surprised to be named a Best of Jackson finalist after such a short time.

"Honestly, it's such an honor being named for something like this and be recognized so quickly," Jordan says.

Jordan joined the U.S. Navy after graduating high school and discovered his passion toward helping others train while serving as a command fitness leader. After finishing his tour of duty in 2018, he began working to receive certification as a personal trainer from a company called ACE.

While working toward his certification, Jordan signed on as a trainee with women's fitness organization Burn Boot Camp under owner Shelly Key at the organization's Madison location, where he taught 45-minute "camps" that covered strength and weight training, body weight movement, athletic and metabolic conditioning and more. In January 2021, Jordan left Burn Boot Camp to return to college, but intends to work as a private personal trainer in the meantime. —Dustin Cardon

Finalists: Jasmine Brinson (Javatar Fitness, 601-613-9295, javatarfitness.com) / Jason Gibson (XplicitJ3, 1625 E. County Line Road, Suite 340, 601-850-3425, xplicitj3fitness.com) / Paul Lacoste (Paul Lacoste Sports, 601-398-0950, paullacoste.com) / Lenny Ross (Madison Healthplex, 501 Baptist Drive, Madison, 601-856-7757, healthplexperformance.com) / Oraeshia "Rhee" Unger (XplicitJ3, 1625 E. County Line Road, Suite 340, 601-850-3425, xplicitj3fitness.com) / Scott Young (Mettle Sports; 854 Centre St., Suite D3, Ridgeland; mettlesports.org

Best First Responder: Marcus Rounsaville

(Jackson Fire Department)

Even though he did not dream of being a firefighter when he was growing up, Marcus Rounsaville says "there is nothing greater" after serving with the Jackson Fire Department for the past 16 years.

Born in Chicago, Ill., the 41-year-old grew up between Illinois and Mississippi before settling in Natchez in the eighth grade. He says his twin brother Maurice is "his biggest supporter," and that he would not be the same without him.

Rounsaville joined the U.S. Marine Corps in 1998 after graduating from Provine High School. After four years and two tours of duty in Afghanistan, Rounsaville completed a bachelor's degree in criminal justice at Jackson State University in 2004.

He remembers April 1, 2005, as the day that marked his transition from serving his country as a soldier to serving his city as a firefighter. While people often call about water leaks and other non-fire emergencies, Rounsaville says he will always show up. "This is my city," he said. "I love it, and I will never let it down."

Despite being eligible for retirement, Rounsaville wants to keep improving, and leave behind a legacy of dedication that his successor can pick up and continue. —Kyle Hamrick

Finalists: John Cooly (Madison Police Department) / Hunter Grewe (Flora Fire Department) / Coty Hamilton (Richland Police Department) / Michael Hollingsworth / Christopher T. Sawyer (Law Enforcement and Safety Consultant, Motivus Momentum Agency) / Courtney Tullos (Paramedic, American Medical Response)

Best Hair Stylist: Amanda "Pretty Slayer" Williamson-Anderson

(Pretty Slayer Beauty Boutique, 115 N. State St., 601-918-4499, prettyslayer.com)

For Amanda Williamson-Anderson, hairstyling has been a family affair, getting her start by sitting in the salon with her mother, who worked as a stylist. Although her over-exposure to the industry at first made her reluctant to go into practice for herself, she eventually admitted that it was the "thing she gravitated toward" and opened Pretty Slayer Beauty Boutique.

Specializing in weaves, wigs, sew-ins and other hair extensions, Williamson-Anderson earned her "Pretty Slayer" moniker from her 
clients, out of appreciation for the attractive hair styles she gave them.

In return, she cites her time interacting with clients as her favorite part of her daily work. "Women need to vent, so listening to them and making them feel pretty are important. I want them to leave out of (the salon) feeling totally different than they did when I came in," she says. —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Finalists: Lychanda Coleman-Brown (Shekinah Glory Hair Designs, 11055 Highway 467, Raymond, 601-857-9990, facebook.com/shekinahglory06) / Pollye Cooper (109 E. Main St., Florence, 601-213-6538, facebook.com/Pollye-Cooper-Cosmetologist) / Inez Doe (Ufancii Beauty Bar, 5735 Interstate 55, 601-790-0297, ufanciibeautybar.com) / Carly Temple (Turning Heads Salon, 498 Highway 16, Suite B, Carthage, 601-267-3544, facebook.com/Turningheadssalon2016) / Molly Gee Webster (Molly Gee and Co., 219 Garden Park Drive, Suite 200A, Madison, 601-853-0054, mollygeeandco.com) / Cammie Whitehead (The Glossary Salon, 109 E. Mail St., Florence, 601-845-1111, glossaryhairsalon.com)

Best Local Business Owner: Jeff Good

(Mangia Bene Restaurant Management Group, 3317 N. State St., 601-982-4443, facebook.com/MangiaBeneInc)

When Jeff Good hung up his apron at The Light House Restaurant (now closed) in the 1980s, his boss told him the restaurant business was in his blood. After 26 years of running three Jackson restaurants, Good, a self-described "57-year-old Pollyanna," says his old boss was right, "I'm just geared for hospitality."

Born in Iowa and raised in Utah, Good completed his senior year at Murrah High School when his family moved to Jackson in 1980. He earned a bachelor's degree in business administration from Millsaps College in 1986. After selling computer systems for six years, Good reunited with Dan Blumenthal, a high school friend and professional chef, and re-entered the restaurant business.

The pair launched Bravo! Italian Restaurant and Bar in 1994, Broad Street Baking Company and Cafe in 1998, and Sal and Mookie's New York Pizza and Ice Cream Joint in 2007.

Good says his restaurants are focused on quality food and quality service. "I'm thankful for the support we've received," he says, "and I hope we can keep going." —Kyle Hamrick

Finalists: Tracy Branch (The Tracy Branch Agency, tracybranch.com) / Jill Jackson (Mississippi Medium, 601-706-9644, jillmjackson.com) / Godfrey Morgan (Godfrey's, 2460 Terry Road, 601-398-3602, facebook.com/Godfreys) / Melissa Kirksey (BB'S LIVE - Bonny Blair's, 1149 Old Fannin Road, Suite 16, Flowood; 769-251-0692) / Jenni Sivils (The Prickly Hippie; 500 Highway 51, Suite F, Ridgeland; 601-910-6730, pricklyhippie.com) / Lee Vance, Jr. (Josephine's Kitchen, 4638 Hanging Moss Road, 769-572-4276, josephineskitchenms.com)

​Best Makeup Artist: Christine Cody

(Makeup by Christine Cody, 601-760-2776, instagram.com/makeupbycody35)

Christine Cody is passionate about beauty. A professional makeup artist since 2001, Cody acts as a beauty guide and makeup instructor to women of all ages and races. The bulk of Cody's work is creating glamorous looks for birthdays, weddings, senior proms and family photo shoots, although she also does themed theatrical makeup for Halloween and other holidays.

"This is not a job, it's a personal mission," Cody says. "Bringing joy and confidence to women delights my soul. When they look in the mirror and are transformed, I'm overjoyed."

One-on-one appointments last between 60 and 90 minutes in her downtown Jackson studio, where Cody mixes and matches product lines to create a personalized "beauty recipe" for each client. Prices vary. "I've been lucky enough to find and live my passion," Cody says. "I love finding the special spark within each woman and bringing it forward." —Michele D. Baker

Finalists: Denavia Bell (Poisonous Stripes Makeup Artistry, facebook.com/poisonousstripesmakeupartistry) / April Epps (A. Renee Makeup Artistry, 601-850-7658, areneemakeup.com) / Kayla Jones (The Beauty Pantry, 504 N. Bierdeman Road, Pearl, 601-850-9038) / Bailey Marie New (Molly Gee & Co., 219 Garden Park Drive, Madison, 601-853-0054, mollygeeandco.com) / Carly Temple (Turning Heads Salon, 498 Highway 16, Suite B, Carthage, 601-267-3544, facebook.com/Turningheadssalon2016) / Cammie Whitehead (The Glossary Salon, 109 E. Mail St., Florence, 601-845-1111, glossaryhairsalon.com)

Best Massage Therapist: Tiffany Bennett

(Massage Envy, multiple locations, massageenvy.com)

Tiffany Bennett has been a licensed massage therapist since graduating cum laude from Antonelli College in 2013. Bennett has a thriving practice specializing in deep tissue, Swedish, chair and prenatal massage; reflexology; and hot stone therapy.

"Receiving regular massage helps relieve anxiety, tension and stress," Bennett says. "It can help you get focused and increase blood flow. Especially during this pandemic, it can help you relax, renew and revive mentally, physically and emotionally."

Bennett works from Massage Envy in Madison. She also does outcalls within a 30-minute driving radius (Jackson, Brandon, Pearl, Byram, Canton, Madison) and charges $80 an hour or 90 minutes for $120. She is also available for girls' night in massage parties and couples' massages.

Taking the dangers of COVID-19 seriously, Bennett offers parting advice during the pandemic: "Wear your mask, wash your hands, stay safe and protected. Be smart; be sure you and your therapist are taking the necessary precautions." —Michele D. Baker

Finalists: London Hamilton (NomiSpa; 734 Fairview St.; 601-948-3429; fairviewinn.com/spa) / Christopher Jordan (iRevive Bodyworks Massage & Spa, 1900 Dunbarton Drive, Suite C, 601-259-8918, facebook.com/irevivebodyworks) / Lashea Leggett (LaLa Spa, 220 Avalon Circle, Suite E, Brandon; 601-951-6436; lalaspa.biz) / Tiffany Melton (Massage by Tiffany; 4435 Mangum Drive, Suite B, Flowood; 601-317-1788, facebook.com/massagebytiff)

Best Nail Technician: Kristy Nguyen

(Rouge Nails Lash Wax, 5352 Lakeland Drive, Flowood, 769-572-4747, facebook.com/rougenailsms)

Kristy Nguyen put herself through college by working part-time and during summers as a nail technician, and this year, she'll celebrate her 10th year in the business.

"I didn't really think I'd ever do nails permanently, but I fell in love with it and wanted to learn more," Nguyen recalls. She regales her clients with this origin story at her place of business, Rouge Nail Salon in Flowood.

Customer comfort is a priority for Nguyen, who cites her relationship with her customers as the best part of her work. "I love meeting new clients, but my regulars feel like family," Nguyen says. "They've followed me since I've started my journey. They know everything about me, and I like to get to know them."

Nguyen believes that knowing her customers helps her meet their hectic schedules, as Rouge Nails is appointment only. "People don't have to wait," Nguyen says of the practice. This consideration for time allows Nguyen to do what she does best while tending to her clients' nail care needs: give them a space to be heard. "I'm a good listener," she reflects. —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Finalists: Shea Mitch (Nailfloetry, 601-918-6915, thenailpoet.as.me) / Diane Nguyen (Polished Nail Bar, 115 Village Square Drive, Suite K, Brandon; 601-398-3984; facebook.com/Polished-Nail-Bar) / Lambria Tillman (Lambo Nails, 307C Clinton Blvd., Clinton, 601-846-5077, facebook.com/shegotlamboed) / Kevin Truong (Kevin's Nail Spa, 655 Lake Harbour Drive, Suite 600, Ridgeland; 601-427-5211; facebook.com/Kevinnailsspa39157) / Victoria Walker (Cuticles Nail Studio, 2947-5 Old Canton Road, 601-366-6999, cuticlesnailstudio.com) / Rasheedah Williams (Shee' Nails, 115 N. State St., 601-668-9399, facebook.com/sheenail)

Best Photographer: D'Artagnan Winford

(D'Artagnan Portrait, 121 Millsaps Avenue, Jackson, 662-515-5989, facebook.com/DArtagnanportrait)

For fine-art portrait photographer D'Artagnan Winford, pictures keep records of specific moments in time, and he knows them when he sees them.

"I am looking for nuances, things in their gaze, a certain confidence, high self-esteem. I may say all of a sudden: 'Hold it right there!' They reply by asking 'Hold what right there?' And that's the moment I snap the picture," Winford says.

Raised in the Delta, Winford worked at Mississippi Valley State University as a senior graphic designer after graduating from MVSU in 2002 with a bachelor's degree in fine arts. While he initially did not anticipate venturing into professional photography, he began taking photos for his job at MSVU. An art-director position at Jackson State University led him to the Jackson, where he opened D'Artagnan Portrait to hone his craft. He currently works for Ramey Agency as a senior art director.—Mike McDonald

Finalists: Bryan Mckenny (Bryan McKenny Photography, 601-530-0463, bmckennystudios.com) / Crystal Marie Thompson (Crystal Marie Photography, 601-691-0487, facebook.com/CrystalMariePhoto) / Leah Bardin (Leah Bardin Photography, facebook.com/Bardinphotography) / Michael Bilbrew (Bilbrew Photography, 601-850-6677, bilbrewpics.com) / Natasha Childers (Natasha Childers Photography, 601-720-4750, facebook.com/NatashaChildersPhotography) / Tristan Duplichain (Tristan Duplichain Photography, 601-946-3708, tristanduplichain.com) / Will Sterling (Sterling Photography, 300 Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive S.E., Ridgeland, 678-429-9800, facebook.com/sterlingpics)

​Best Professor: Erin Pickens

(Tougaloo College, tougaloo.edu)

During her 23 years as a morning news anchor, Erin Pickens heard generations of interns romanticize the "glamour" of television news. "It's so not glamorous," Pickens laughs. "I got into teaching because I thought it would be great for them to know what they're getting into—from a real-life perspective."

This led Pickens to apply to teach mass-communication courses at Tougaloo College, a position she's now held for seven years while continuing to work as an anchor for WAPT. "It's rewarding," Pickens says of her time at the historically Black college. "It's a chance to mold young minds, and even if TV news isn't glamorous, it's important. We're informing the public about what's going in their communities."

Pickens emphasizes community in her classroom, bringing the lessons she's learned at the station to her afternoon classes at the university. "The students (in my class) say, 'Wow!' when they see what all we encounter on a daily basis. The movies are really embellished, but this is real life." —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Finalists: Natasha Childers / Noel Didla (Jackson State University, jsums.edu) / Miriam Gray (Jackson State University, jsums.edu) / Krisha Hawkins / Glake Hill (Jackson State University, jsums.edu) / Rodney Washington (University of Mississippi Medical Center, umc.edu) / Tracey Wells-Harmon (Jackson State University, jsums.edu)

​Best Real Estate Agent: Meshia Edwards

(Community First Real Estate, 101 Business Park Drive, Suite I, Ridgeland; 601-956-6567; yourcommunityfirst.net)

Meshia Edwards started her career in credit repair, but her husband's position in the mortgage industry piqued her interest, and she began working in realty not long after.

"When I got into real estate in 2012, I came in with a five-year plan," Edwards recalls. "I wanted to get all the experience and exposure I could before starting my own brokerage."

Edwards achieved her goals, opening Community First Real Estate, which she has now expanded to include six agents and property listings in Hinds, Rankin and Madison counties.

The firm's community impact remains its primary goal. "My favorite part of my job is seeing the faces of the home buyers at the end of the journey," Edwards says. "Whenever I feel like I'm getting tired or second-guessing myself, I think of those smiling faces." —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Finalists: Deanna Mikel (The Agency Real Estate Services, 350 Arbor Drive, Suite A, Ridgeland; 601-665-4869; deannamikel.theagencyrealestateservices.com) / Shadow Robinson (Next Level Real Estate, 5350 Executive Plaza, Suite 1, 769-251-0856, facebook.com/nextlevelrealestatellcms) / Dwanna Stanley (The Agency Real Estate Services, 350 Arbor Drive, Suite A, Ridgeland; 601-665-4869; dwannastanley.theagencyrealestateservices.com) / Shandra Thompson (The Agency Real Estate Services, 350 Arbor Drive, Suite A, Ridgeland; 601-665-4869; theagencyrealestateservices.com) / Rashida Walker (W Real Estate, 2160 Main Street, Suite B, Madison; 601-499-0952; wrealestatellc.com) / Kitcson White (Home Buyers Marketing MS; 129 Executive Drive, Suite G, Madison; 601-790-1772; homebuyersmississippi.com)

​​Best Server/Waitperson: Megan Evans

(The Manship Wood Fired Kitchen, 1200 N. State St., Suite 100, 601- 398-4562, themanshipjackson.com)

A julep leaf tattoo serves as a physical reminder of Megan Evans' time working as part of the team that worked for Julep Restaurant and Bar, a business that closed over five years ago. The environment that her coworkers and boss established for her made Julep feel like a second home filled with her surrogate family, and they still do their best to keep up with one another today.

Like many teenagers, Evans began waiting tables at 16 years old to earn some money and practice independence. Over time, though, her enjoyment of the job increased, and she's continued to serve patrons throughout the years.

"Being attentive to the customer is key," Evans says. "I have to let everything go at the door when I come in. I love working at a place that's good and consistently good. I know it's not a job for everybody, but I love it."

The Brandon native began working at The Manship Wood Fired Kitchen around four months ago, and she has already ingratiated herself into the family, feeling empowered. "They have me training people," she notes.

"I've been blown away by the business. People want to get out right now. People want to support local places. People have been really generous," Evans says. —Mike McDonald

Finalists: Zack Barret (Saltine, 622 Duling Ave., Suite 201, 601-982-2899, jackson.saltinerestaurant.com) / Amelia Brunson (The Manship Wood Fired Kitchen, 1200 N. State St., Suite 100, 601- 398-4562, themanshipjackson.com) / Kayley Jones (BB's Live - Bonny Blair's; 1149 Old Fannin Road, Suite 16, Flowood; 769-251-00692) / Jillian Pitchard / Dani Vercher (Martin's Downtown, 214 S. State St., 601-352-9712, martinsdowntownjxn.com) / Ashliegh Wooten

Sexiest Bartender: Kree' Blackwell

(Bar 3911, 3911 Northview Drive, 601-586-1468)

When Kree' Blackwell isn't pouring drinks and serving laughs at Bar 3911, she has a desk job. "Bartending helps me with the monotony throughout my week," Blackwell says of her daily transition. "It's a relief and a release from sitting at a desk answering phones and doing paperwork."

Although she does appreciate the departure her work as a bartender provides, what keeps her coming back night after night is the people—on both sides of the counter. "I love the people that I work with and the customers. They make the night."

The customers have watched Blackwell progress throughout her entire tenure as a bartender, as she's spent her entire five-year career mixing drinks at Bar 3911, previously named "Wanderlust." Being recognized after such a short time in the field isn't an honor that she takes lightly, saying, "The amount of people who wanted to see me on the Best of Jackson ballot makes me feel good. Even though it's just a job, the customers and staff have made it so much more." —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Finalists: Charlie Keister (Fondren Public, 2765 Old Canton Road, 769-216-2589, facebook.com/fondrenpublic) / Kurt Monaghan (Hal & Mal's, 200 Commerce St., 601-948-0888, halandmals.com) / Kristi Leigh Odom (Twin Peaks, 6010 Interstate 55 Frontage Road, 769-524-3552, twinpeaksrestaurant.com) / Lisa Palmer / Ashley Pullin / Colton Woodward (Fizz Mobile Bartending, fizzmobilebartending.com)

Best Teacher: Veronica Dykes

(Lanier High School)

Veronica Dykes has taught at Lanier High School for six years, but her love for teaching started much earlier. "My mother was a teacher for 38 years, so I had always grown up around education. Seeing my mom and the effort she put in endeared me to the profession," Dykes recalls. "Teaching is my own way of giving back. I can give to my students in the way my teachers gave to me."

The teachers who encouraged Dykes through her educational upbringing taught locally, as Dykes graduated from Madison Central High School before earning her teaching degree at Delta State University.

Her first five years at Lanier High School were spent teaching English II, which is a state-tested subject for high schoolers in Mississippi, so she found her move to English III this school year to be "a relief," she says with a laugh.

No matter the subject or grade level she teaches, Dykes is quick to point out that her students teach her as much as she teaches them. "(Empathy) isn't something I acquired on my own. My students taught me how to be a better person," she says. —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Finalists: Chinelo Bosah Evans (Early College High School @ Tougaloo College) / Noel Didla (Jackson State University) / Shelby Fant (Florence Middle School) / Alex Gibert (Ridgeland High School) / Blakeney McGraw (Olde Towne Middle School) / Jamie Moore (Olde Towne Middle School)

​Best Urban Warrior: Maggie Wade

(WLBT-TV, 715 South Jefferson St., 601-948-3333, wlbt.com)

Maggie Wade has garnered over 500 awards for her work in journalism since going to work at WLBT during her senior year of college, but for the media maven, her truest work comes through advocating for disadvantaged youth in the metro area.

"To me, (being an urban warrior) means constantly being willing to take a stand for our children," Wade says. "When we meet a child, we have an opportunity to give them tools to be a better human."

The news anchor has provided youth with such tools by producing news segments on foster children in search of permanent homes through her platform at WLBT, and she also lends her passion for underprivileged children to Southern Christian Services for Children and Youth's advisory board.

Her commitment has not gone unnoticed in Jackson circles, as Wade was conferred an honorary doctorate by Belhaven University and meritoriously completed her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration at Mississippi College in December 2020. For Wade, the work itself remains more important than any accolades she has received. "When we have strong communities, we have strong families. That's one way we can all be urban warriors," she concludes. —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Finalists: Kaye Donald (Hartfield Academy, 1240 Luckney Road, Flowood, 601-992-5333, hartfield.org) / Clay Edwards (Clay Edwards Media, savejxn.com) / Jeff Good (Mangia Bene Restaurant Management Group, 3317 N. State St., 601-982-4443, facebook.com/MangiaBeneInc) / Judge Carlyn Hicks (Hinds County Court Judge, 407 East Pascagoula St., 601-968-6670, courts.ms.gov) / Rukia Lumumba (People's Advocacy Institute; 190 E. Capitol St., Suite 450; 601-885-3240; peoplesadvocacyinstitute.com)

​Best Visual Artist: Wyatt Waters

(Wyatt Waters Gallery, 307 Jefferson St., Clinton, 601-925-8115, wyattwaters.com)

Wyatt Waters, an artist who specializes in watercolor, remembers playing a game as a child where he would look at something, close each eye in turns, and then compare the two images. Even today, the 65-year-old says his art, which is almost always done on location, is motivated by a curiosity for his subject.

"It's about discovery for me," Waters says. "It shows me that the world is different from what I thought before I was standing in front of it."

Waters has operated a gallery and studio in Clinton for 21 years, selling original works as well as prints and other merchandise. When the COVID-19 pandemic struck, Waters closed his gallery and reopened two months later after improving his online store and establishing guidelines for social distancing.

As an artist, Waters says he enjoys coming up with creative solutions to problems and projects. Recently, while painting outside, a bird dropped two times on his work in progress. "I had to take that and adapt it into something in my painting," he says, laughing. A longtime Mississippi native, Waters looks forward to continuing travels with his wife throughout the South painting for an upcoming book. —Kyle Hamrick

Finalists: Brian Ballou (facebook.com/btballou) / Cody Cox (facebook.com/cody.cox) / Sabrina Howard (601-940-6804, sabrinahoward.com) / Azha Sanders (azhatattoos.com) / Haley Toups (instagram.com/haleytoupz) / Ginger Williams (gingerwilliamscook.com)

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JFP StaffWed, 03 Feb 2021 13:09:21 -0600https://jacksonfreepress.com/news/2021/feb/03/best-jackson-2021-people/
Parole Reform, Pay Raises and COVID-19: 2021 Legislative Previewhttps://jacksonfreepress.com/news/2021/jan/05/parole-reform-pay-raises-and-covid-19-2021-legisla/

Masked legislators tapped fists as the 2021 legislative session began on Jan. 5, a familiar scene awaiting an uncertain future. The state's latest legislative gathering during a pandemic quickly gave way to the first of 2020's many lingering threads: the codifying of the state's new flag.

Only moments after the gaveling-in, House Bill 1 sped through a Rules Committee hearing, on track to put declarative punctuation to one of 2020's vanishingly few moments of unity. House Speaker Philip Gunn, R-Clinton, opened the proceedings by putting the flag bill before a House floor that voted it through 119-1. "Today would be a most appropriate day for us to put that into the code," he said.

With the flag settled in one chamber, after only Republican Stephen Horne of Meridian opposed it (and Dan Eubanks, of Walls voted "present,") enormous work remains. The 2020 session, though it dragged on for nearly the entire year, left much unfinished. Public employee pay increases, criminal-justice reform and COVID relief all loom in the near future.

In spite of the monumental work ahead of the Legislature, there is good reason to question the wisdom of holding the session now at all. With a two-thirds vote, the House could begin the process of delaying the session until March.

As of press time, that delay seems unlikely, with Speaker Gunn dedicated to getting through the session to avoid the endless procession of 2020 repeating.

'We Couldn't Have Quorum'

Lt. Gov. Delbert Hosemann spearheaded the effort to delay the session, citing the danger posed by another legislative outbreak and the high transmission of the virus in Mississippi.

"I propose that we come in on January 5, adopt our flag, do whatever other things we have to do, perfunctorily, and then adjourn until March 1st," the Senate leader said at a Dec. 29 press event.

Hosemann told the Jackson Free Press that part of the difficulty of holding the session during the pandemic was the strict necessity of quarantining after exposure.

"If, in fact, you have been with someone (infected with COVID-19), under Dr. Dobbs' orders, you are supposed to be quarantined for 14 days. Now, if that were enough of the Senate, we couldn't have quorum. We wouldn't have enough people to vote," Hosemann said.

Not all legislators share Hosemann's desire to see the session delayed. Sen. Brice Wiggins, R-Pascagoula, said that the session should continue as planned, with improved safety measures to avoid an outbreak.

"As I saw one of my colleagues comment, teachers and other public employees have been working through this pandemic, and us legislators should do that, too," Wiggins told the Jackson Free Press.

Hosemann, who was infected during the 2020 legislative outbreak, said contact tracing revealed that last-minute budget talks held in private offices caused much of the transmission between legislators, which infected at least 49 of them. "(We) let our guard down, actually. We weren't as good about it as we needed to be," he said.

But while legislators are likely to be more wary of the virus after so many were infected in the last session, it is unlikely that a repetition of the same security measures from previous months—voluntary mask usage, temperature checks at the door and loads of hand sanitizer—is a guaranteed protection against a large-scale outbreak. In 2021, just as in 2020, it is the uncaring virus that will determine if the session continues uninterrupted, not legislators.

Parole Reform, Take Two

Distinct from COVID-19 struggles was the last-minute collapse of the Legislature's criminal-reform push, which failed to overcome a gubernatorial veto in early July 2020, despite broad support in both chambers. Now, however, a breakthrough in negotiations between reform-minded legislators and law-enforcement organizations signals a promising opportunity for a successful attempt in 2021.

At the bill's center was a long-awaited package of parole reforms intended to standardize a pathway to parole eligibility lacking for many incarcerated Mississippians.

Senate Bill 2123 would have provided parole eligibility for incarcerated Mississippians serving time for nonviolent offenses after 25% of their sentence or 10 years, whichever was less. For Mississippians serving time for violent offenses, eligibility would have required the lesser of 50% of their sentence or 25 years of incarceration.

Legislators supporting the bill, spanning both parties in both chambers, argued that it addressed a growing prison population derived from excessively harsh sentencing guidelines established in the 1990s.

Senate Minority Leader Derrick Simmons, D-Greenville, lamented the bill's failure in July. "Mississippi has the second-largest incarceration rate in the world. SB 2123 addressed Mississippi's growing prison crisis," Simmons said. "It was bipartisan policy."

But for Gov. Tate Reeves, the bill went too far. "Right now, you're eligible to get out of prison at 60 unless you're a trafficker, habitual offender or violent criminal. This totally eliminates those protections," he wrote on Facebook upon vetoing the bill.

The governor's concerns didn't match the content of the bill, which did nothing to guarantee parole, merely provided the incarcerated with the opportunity for a hearing before the parole board.

But Reeves later admitted to the Jackson Free Press that his concerns about who might sit on that parole board after his term in office ended fueled his skepticism about signing the bill into law.

"I have a maximum of seven years and five months left serving as governor. And I have no idea who is going to be the next governor," he said at a press event.

Reeves' veto held in no small part thanks to the backing of two powerful professional organizations, the Mississippi Sheriffs' Association and the state Prosecutors Association, both of which publicly voiced opposition to SB 2123.

Jasper County Sheriff Randy Johnson, president of the MSA, told the Jackson Free Press in September that his primary concern was a lack of preparation the influx of parolees would receive prior to their reentry to society.

"We're not against people having a second chance. We're not against people getting out. We want them to have a good step forward when they do get out, instead of just opening the door," Johnson said.

'A Good Resolution'

Sen. Juan Barnett, D-Heidelberg, the chairman of the Senate Corrections Committee, made passing parole reform the centerpiece of his first term leading the committee. He told the Jackson Free Press in a Dec. 23 interview that enormous progress had been made in negotiations, and that he expected even broader support for the amended bill in the coming session, removing the last barrier for lasting change to the state's parole system.

"We've come to a good resolution on how we should proceed," Barnett said.

The first step in the process was simply communication. Barnett said clearly expressing the limitations the bill kept in place was an important part of the negotiations. Convicted murderers, sex offenders and anyone explicitly sentenced without possibility of parole cannot benefit from the reforms. Nor does parole eligibility guarantee release.

But there are material changes to the second attempt at the bill that ameliorate some of the concerns from law enforcement. Proposed reforms to geriatric parole are now limited to those convicted at a younger age, ensuring that elderly offenders cannot serve exceedingly short sentences.

Most importantly, Johnson's concern—the release of incarcerated Mississippians without re-entry preparation—will be addressed in the 2021 version of the bill.

Incarcerated individuals seeking expanded access to parole will have to complete "two years of job training, before their release," Barnett said. "We want to make sure they have every opportunity ... (but) if you expect to be paroled, then you have to take advantage of the job-training programs," he added.

Barnett said the Mississippi Department of Corrections would be partnering with other state agencies to expand re-entry program availability, as well as regional jails that already offer job-training programs.

The corrections chairman believes the system will play to the strengths of new MDOC commissioner Burl Cain. "The current commissioner had big success in Angola (La.) doing the same thing. That's something that he has spoken about. We're going to allow him the opportunity to (expand) that type of training," Barnett said.

Sen. Wiggins, a member of the Corrections Committee and another key legislator in the ongoing parole-reform effort, shared Barnett's positive impression of the talks with law enforcement advocates. But he was hesitant to say that the bill would see smooth sailing in the upcoming session.

"My experience tells me that when you get into the session, people's opinions can change. That being said, I would agree that significant progress has been made with those groups," he told the Jackson Free Press at the end of the year.

The state senator warned that one of the key provisions of the agreement—adherence to re-entry programs—would require investment from the Mississippi Department of Corrections that Wiggins said he had yet to see in previous years.

"The Legislature has passed many (bills) to address re-entry ... That was the one of the purposes behind House Bill 585 (from 2014): so people could get the rehabilitation that they need. The problem is that MDOC did not do it," Wiggins said.

Mississippi Code §47-7-3.1 requires MDOC to provide a complete case plan for all inmates within 90 days of their admission which includes a clearly defined parole eligibility date, and mandates a meeting with caseworkers every eight weeks to discuss the inmate's progress on that case plan. "What we have found is that MDOC has never done that," Wiggins said.

'Habitual Undercompensation'

Lt. Gov. Hosemann has his eye on criminal-justice reform as well, echoing Sen. Barnett's sentiments on the meetings between legislative leadership and law enforcement at his Dec. 29 press event. Past the horizon of parole reform, Hosemann sees another step toward repairing the state's ailing carceral system.

"In my meetings with Mr. Cain, it is obvious to me that we are undercompensating our corrections officers," Hosemann told the Jackson Free Press in an interview. "That unfortunately has been habitual in several different (areas) of Mississippi. I think it's time for Mississippians to look at what we're going to do for compensation for people ... doing work for the state, so that they at least have a meaningful job that's not below the poverty rate."

Hosemann's last push for a raise for some of the state's lowest-paid employees dates back to the early days of the 2020 session, before COVID-19 obliterated all hopes of a normal year, meant to be a follow-up to what seemed at the time like a universally approved teacher pay raise.

"We have over 1,000 employees working full time for the State of Mississippi whose gross salary is less than $20,000," Hosemann said in early February. "That is not economically feasible ... We have thousands of open positions in state government. Why is that? We can't compete with a growing and burgeoning economy in Mississippi. They can get a better job."

Hosemann's continued interest in raising pay for state employees stands in contrast with the plans of Gov. Reeves and Speaker Gunn, both of whom have endorsed plans to aggressively cut—and eventually eliminate—the state's income tax, beyond the 3% bracket set to phase out this year.

The lieutenant governor roundly rejected that plan, first in an interview with the Jackson Free Press and again at his Dec. 29 press event, explaining that he had been presented with no solutions to fill in the $1.8 billion-plus hole in the state support budget such a tax cut would leave behind.

Whether Hosemann's plans to reinvest in the state's teachers and other public employees will come to fruition, or whether they'll be buried under the weight of coronavirus-induced austerity yet again, remains to be seen.

'Democracy Will Win'

The rolling catastrophes of 2020 exposed weaknesses across far more than the state's health-care system.

November's presidential election was a precarious one for Mississippi, in which voters requested nearly a quarter of a million absentee ballots, well over twice the amount from 2016. Images from the weeks preceding the election showed absentee voters lining the sidewalks, with extensive waiting times for many.

Rep. Zakiya Summers, D-Jackson, aims to address those weaknesses in her second year in office.

"With the historic election we had in 2020 ... I'm hoping with this session we'll have the opportunity to speak with election officials, from the state to the local level, to see what worked, what didn't, and what they have in mind to improve the process," she told the Jackson Free Press in an interview just before the session began.

Summers has one goal already in mind. "I am definitely going to be pushing for no-excuse absentee voting," she said. "I'm hoping that my colleagues will have an appetite for it on the elections committee." To Summers, absentee voting is the ideal solution to expand ballot access, especially to working class voters who might find it difficult to making it to a polling place.

"I heard so much frustration from voters and election officials alike about how the process works. (Voters) weren't sure if they qualified, and if they did, which excuse to use," she said.

Plus, the freshman representative sees expanded absentee voting as a more likely avenue of greater ballot access, given a growing Republican hostility to early voting nationwide.

"When you go into the courthouse to vote absentee, you have to provide voter ID. With mail-in voting, you have to get that notarized (twice). No-excuse absentee voting is a win-win," Summers explained.

Nor is she willing to hedge on a commitment to getting the vote out because of repetitious, baseless claims of voter fraud.

"When you have the president shouting out disinformation on a daily basis because the outcome of the election didn't favor him, that's not democracy," Summers said. "But I believe that democracy will win. There are things we can do to make this process better for both sides."

Email state reporter Nick Judin at nick@jacksonfreepress.com.

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Nick JudinTue, 05 Jan 2021 17:34:13 -0600https://jacksonfreepress.com/news/2021/jan/05/parole-reform-pay-raises-and-covid-19-2021-legisla/
The Most Intriguing of 2020https://jacksonfreepress.com/news/2020/dec/22/most-intriguing-2020/

Thinking of a recent year as eventful as 2020 would be quite the challenge. Nevertheless, the Jackson Free Press chose a handful of Mississippians who have made headlines this year, for better or worse, and reflects on their undertakings over the last year. Read the following intriguing recaps to learn more.

Gov. William Winter

Gov. William Winter passed from this earth on Dec. 18, another tragedy for a year composed of little else. Eulogies emerged rapidly, from across the state and the nation. Winter was a giant in the state's history, an alchemical figure. His story—a segregationist turned devoted racial unifier—remains the lasting dream for Mississippi's lingering institutions of white supremacy.

Winter's extant political opponents refer to him as a gentleman, and true enough: there was something of an entirely different age about his demeanor and his tact. But a diplomatic bearing is not William Winter's legacy.

The governor's legacy is the reward of a ceaseless career of self-critical growth. Winter saw long before his colleagues that the repairing of a broken society requires the powerful to put the reconciliation of generations to come above the alluring nostalgia of the past.

That nostalgia persists. But so does the integrated educational system 
created by Winter's landmark achievement, and the Institute for Racial Reconciliation bearing his name, now based in Jackson.

Winter's 97 years of life began between the two governorships of strident racist Theodore Bilbo. In 2020, Mississippi mourns his polar opposite. In the years to come, leadership will come of age that benefited from Gov. Winter's hopeful vision of Mississippi's future, and his honest assessment of its past.

And that will be his greatest legacy of all. —Nick Judin

Dr. Thomas Dobbs

State Health Officer Dr. Thomas Dobbs rose to the top of the Mississippi State Department of Health in 2018, and he is as surprised as you are that you know his name.

That he was taking on a position of such significance so soon before the public-health crisis of the century is not something that Dobbs could have easily anticipated. But that his role as the state's top medical expert would put him at the crumbling fault line of a culture at war with itself is beyond all imagining.

To many Mississippians, Dobbs is a candid advocate for the state's health-care system. His calm demeanor does little to mask the dire nature of his COVID-19 pronouncements—his repeated warnings, which too few have taken seriously—have consistently come to pass.

To the denialists who have never successfully grappled with the real weight of the pandemic, he is a figure of utter contempt: "Doomsday Dobbs," a regional stand-in for grander subjects of reactionary hatred, from Dr. Anthony Fauci to Bill Gates.

To others still, he is simply not enough, remaining an adviser in a crisis that calls for a general. His position as state health officer is legally distinct from Gov. Tate Reeves' direct authority. His public-health orders carry the weight of law. And yet he consistently defers to the willfully uninformed, inconstant leadership of the governor.

With more than 5,000 Mississippians dead from COVID-19, in Dobbs' own estimations, such a critique has to be entertained. Yet looming above it is a far more grim assessment: The powers legally invested in any position, be it the state health officer or the office of the governor, are only relevant so far as they are heard, understood, enforced and obeyed.

In an earlier era, Dobbs might have been the ironclad authority some now wish for him to be. But in this American twilight, noisy with the din of misinformation, atomized into endless political struggle, he is first and foremost a witness. —Nick Judin

Dr. LouAnn Woodward

Dr. LouAnn Woodward, University of Mississippi Medical Center's vice chancellor, emerged this year as yet another foil to Gov. Tate Reeves as one of the leading voices in a chorus of public-health leadership pressing for stronger measures against the coronavirus. But where Dr. Thomas Dobbs' role was to negotiate with Mississippi's governor, Woodward's was often to challenge him.

It was her letter, in the earliest days of the pandemic, that most visibly contributed to the state's only real attempt at a lockdown. Then, as July's spike threatened the coming school semester, she again leveraged her authority as UMMC chief to pressure the governor into issuing a statewide mask order, leading to the only sustained period of significant viral decline Mississippi has witnessed in the pandemic since the initial lockdown.

Her reward has been the personal enmity of the governor, toward both her and her institution. She was among the public-health leaders he disparaged as "so-called experts" in one of his many sharp denunciations of statewide orders. UMMC itself was a target of Reeves' scorn in the rising tension of the current peak: He minimized the situation in the institution's intensive-care unit after a desperate call from Woodward and other medical professionals from the hospital for more robust measures.

Woodward, like Dobbs, has chosen diplomacy over bombast, never descending to an outright knife fight with Reeves. But her repeated contradictions of the governor's hands-off approach to infection control will remain for posterity to judge. —Nick Judin

Gov. Tate Reeves

Whatever lies in Gov. Tate Reeves' future, he can certainly lay claim to having had the most bizarrely challenging first year in office in modern Mississippi history. Within a month of his inauguration, Reeves inherited a carceral crisis many years in the making and experienced one of the worst floods on record.

Politically, it was a year of reckoning for the man who, in the words of Mississippi political expert Marty Wiseman, left "bodies on the sidelines" in his many contentious years in public office. A unified Legislature dealt the governor and his office itself more than a few bruising blows as the year unfolded, reclaiming authority ceded to previous Republican executives like Gov. Haley Barbour.

That these events rank as footnotes in the story of 2020 is a testament to its exhausting length. Coronavirus has been the background radiation of Reeves' every move. Initially, the new governor attempted to chart a middle course between the medical establishment's desperate calls for a nationwide effort to crush the virus at any cost and the Trump administration's willful ignorance of its threat to the stability of the hospital system.

Failing that cost Reeves—and Mississippi—dearly. As the year closes, the governor fights openly with public-health leadership at their moment of greatest crisis. He puts a pen to executive orders cracking down on social gatherings in between rubbing elbows with unmasked donors at ill-advised parties. He denies the severity of the crisis in the state's largest hospital at the same time as he seeks consent for collective isolation ahead of the vaccine's full distribution.

An analysis of excess deaths shows the cost of the pandemic in Mississippian lives is greater than 5,000. The state is eighth in deaths per capita across the entire pandemic. Outside the epicenter of the initial massive outbreak in New England, it is third. —Nick Judin

Angelique Lee

Angelique Lee is the newest member of the Jackson City Council, stepping into retiring Ward 2 Councilman Melvin Priester Jr.'s seat after a convincing special-election and run-off win over Tyrone Lewis, the well-known former Hinds County sheriff. Lee is beginning her political career with a platform built upon support for public education.

Lee's family history in Jackson is a long one: She is the daughter of civil-rights activist and Freedom Rider Mary Harrison Lee and the Big Apple Inn's Geno Lee. Angelique, formerly an education lobbyist and campaign manager for Jennifer Riley-Collins during her 2019 run for attorney general, cast her victory as a win against status-quo politics.

"I want to thank Ward 2," she said following her success in the Dec. 8 runoff election. "The voters and supporters ... saw fit to push back against the status quo, and recognize that we are a ward that values integrity, strength of character and actual hard work."
 On the new councilwoman's agenda are reducing blight, improving infrastructure, and pursuing economic development. With the general election coming in a matter of months, she will need to start quickly to prove herself before running again. —Julian Mills

Strong Arms of JXN

Strong Arms of JXN is a group dedicated to preventing and interrupting violence in Jackson, and gun violence in particular. Criminal-justice advocates Rukia Lumumba and Terun Moore started the program in 2018, through their nonprofit called the People's 
Advocacy Institute, which pushes for criminal justice reform and community investment.

The group's leadership enlists previously incarcerated individuals like Moore, Benny Ivey and John Knight, lend credibility to their goal of preventing community violence by using their personal experiences to mentor and redirect others from crime and violence. They use the credible-messenger approach, whereby members of the group approach individuals in the community who they feel are soon to be involved in violence. "There's a lot of re-education that's got to go on," said special guest 
Omario Moore on the organization's Facebook Live live feed on Dec. 21.

The credible-messenger program itself is based on Cure Violence, a Chicago-developed model now used across the country in programs to interrupt violence. The model suggests treating violence like a disease, stopping the spread on a case-by-case basis.

The People's Advocacy Institute is awarding $100 to 100 families in need this holiday season through their Community Stimulus Fund, which may be found through either programs Facebook page. Read more about the approach at jfp.ms/preventingviolence. —Julian Mills

Seth Power

Despite the global pandemic placing some major limits to the live-music scene, Brandon resident Seth Power has tenaciously worked to make progress in his life and career throughout 2020.

On Jan. 10, the artist released his first full-length album, "Souvenir," and he subsequently embarked on his first regional mini-tour throughout the month. While he planned to tour college campuses later in the year, COVID-19 canceled those ambitions. Instead, Power turned to creating more content for his fan base, releasing an EP over the summer called "Souvenir (Acoustic)," which featured stripped-down remixes of six songs from the original 14-track album, plus two bonus remixes.

Celebrating his one-year wedding anniversary to his wife, Colette Usry, in June, Power followed the personal achievement with a professional one. His single, "I Do," which he wrote and performed as a surprise to his bride at their wedding, hit the airwaves in September, becoming Power's first song to play on live radio in the United States.

Seth and Colette welcomed their firstborn child, William Power, to the world on Oct. 30.

While the Mississippi State University alum has taken a step back from performing to take care of his son, Power is currently raising funds to develop a service called Fan Space, which will help connect local musicians and their fans, and he plans to release more information on the app in 2021.

To learn more about Seth Power, visit sethpowermusic.com. Listen to his music on Spotify, iTunes and other streaming platforms. —Nate Schumann

Rachel Phuong Le

California native Rachel Phuong Le, owner of the Poke Stop sushi restaurant at Cultivation Food Hall at the District at Eastover, launched a new restaurant called Stuffed Asian Street Food inside the food hall earlier this year.

Stuffed serves a variety of Chinese, Japanese and Vietnamese street food, all with a stuffed theme. The menu includes items such as Chinese egg rolls, Japanese dumplings, Chinese steamed bao buns and more.

"It's very hard to find good Asian food in Mississippi, and the bao buns we have here are something that's certainly not available anywhere else," Le says. "Many people didn't even know about bao before we opened and have started calling them 'fluffy tacos.' I love being able to bring my own flair to authentic Asian food, and it's neat that people have started having their own name for it."

The specialty dish of Stuffed is Vietnamese banh mi, a type of sandwich similar to a po-boy, the recipe for which is Le's own creation and features meats cooked and marinated in-house, including pork belly, lemongrass beef, Asian fried shrimp and more.

"Many people may not be looking for new places, but when they come here and see this and they try it, it's great because it helps get the word out for others just trying to get started again after the pandemic," Le says.

Stuffed is open Monday through Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. For more information, call 601-487-5196 or find the restaurant on Facebook @stuffedjxn. —Dustin Cardon

Chat Phillips

Belhaven resident Chat Phillips launched his own bottled beverage business, Inaka Tea Company, in Jackson in October. Phillips sells homemade barley tea, which is a variety popular in Japan and Korea in which tea leaves are 
prepared in a roaster in a manner similar to coffee beans.

"Barley tea is naturally caffeine free, and it has other special qualities like antioxidants that get brought out from both the tea and the roasting process," Phillips says. "It's also low in cholesterol and sugar and is great for helping to regulate your circulatory system and blood sugar levels."

Phillips learned to make barley tea while living in Japan and working as a consultant for international companies in 2010. He roasted his own barley at home to serve to friends and, after returning to the United States, decided to start selling the tea in Jackson due to its scarcity in the U.S.

"The tea became quite popular in my neighborhood as a coffee substitute since I had a lot of friends who were just starting families, and the health benefits were great for them," Phillips says.

Inaka Tea is available in original, mint and ginger flavors. The tea comes in 16-ounce glass bottles, which are roughly $2.49 apiece, though the price may vary by retailer. Phillips sells his tea through local retailers such as Corner Market and is online at inakatea.com.

For more information, follow Inaka Tea Company on Instagram @inaka_tea or on Facebook @drinkinaka. —Dustin Cardon

The Pittmans

For Sarah and Jesse Pittman, aged 84 and 75 respectively, 2020 has been a stinker of a year. As Kayode Crown first reported in June, the couple had been living with the smell of sewage from clogged pipes for months. The gases were not only unsavory, but also potentially toxic. Roto-Rooter couldn't fix it, saying it was the city's responsibility. The only city-owned machine nearby capable of fixing the issue wasn't functional.

The neighbors were complaining, and the only escape was into the summer heat. If the air conditioner was on, it would bring the smell inside. "I put the fan on, but I could not turn the air back on because the smell was just too bad," Sarah Pittman told Kayode Crown, who reported on their plight.

In July, help came along in the form of the Real People's Assembly—a Jacksonian coalition between finance worker Greg Griffin and lawyer (and City of Jackson critic and JFP columnist) Adofo Minka. The group organizes around community-driven ideas and individual action at the exclusion of government, as opposed to the older and more closely government-linked Jackson People's Assembly. The RPA raised $1,200 through a GoFundMe and put the Pittmans up at the Westin Hotel downtown for five nights where they could rest and get a cool breath of fresh air.

With Kayode Crown's ongoing reporting and the prodding of the RPA pushing the city to fix the sewage problem, the City finally finished the repairs in September to give the Pittmans relief from the putrid smell. "I am feeling much better because I don't have to smell that scent all night and all day," Sarah Pittman told Kayode. "It took them eight months to do it. I am very happy because now I don't have to smell that smell." —Julian Mills

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JFP StaffTue, 22 Dec 2020 18:04:22 -0600https://jacksonfreepress.com/news/2020/dec/22/most-intriguing-2020/
'We Have Forgotten Who We Are': Denial and Death in Mississippi Hospitalshttps://jacksonfreepress.com/news/2020/dec/09/we-have-forgotten-who-we-are-denial-and-death-miss/

Jasmine Watson recalls bringing her patients perfume. It is an odd memory, out of place juxtaposed against other scenes in her medical-surgical unit. "They want that sense of normalcy," she says, laughing warmly as she remembers. Perfumes and colognes, to fill in what is left of her patients' sense of smell with a taste of home, rather than the cloying scent of the hospital.

Perfume is common; so is fruit. Apples and bananas, anything bright and fresh to keep their spirits up. Some of the objects she carries up to her floor are utilitarian—phones and chargers, devices to distract, to keep in touch. She shepherds them from families outside the University of Mississippi Medical Center, where she works as a registered nurse, to her patients in a unit that coronavirus has swallowed completely. All of her charges are afflicted with it.

In the beginning, she told the Jackson Free Press in an interview, each nurse dealt with one COVID-19 patient. At this point, each of them is managing three. Their systemic symptoms make treatment significantly more taxing than typical cases. "They're still med-surg patients. But on top of that, they have COVID," Watson says.

Her charges are cocooned in technology, telemetry and pulse monitors to watch for a dangerous turn. Watson knows how quickly the disease can claim a life. She has seen it firsthand.

She has a patient in mind. The law bars her from sharing fine detail, so the portrait is a silhouette.

The patient was young, healthy, the kind for whom a hospitalization should have been a brief detour on the road to recovery. She left for the weekend, expecting her patient to be ready to discharge when she returned. When she did, her patient was gone.

That person's memory is still with Watson. But it carries less currency outside the boundaries of the hospital, where she finds herself surrounded by deniers not even willing to wear a mask. "People feel like you're telling them what to do," she said. "But we just don't want you laying in the hospital bed unable to breathe."

Time and the worsening crisis have worn the nurse's patience away. The last squabble she had was in the grocery store in line with someone looming behind her without a mask on. "I'm not really nice about it. I yelled 'COVID is real! Can we get a few feet behind me?'"

Paradoxically, the pushback against public health has only seemed to worsen with the crisis. Watson only experienced the final apotheosis of denialism last month. A patient in her unit refused to believe their diagnosis was real. "They told me I tested positive, but I don't believe it," the patient said. "I'm ready to go home."

Watson stays above the vitriol and does what she can for her patients, regardless of what they believe. "If people are convinced that they don't have something, you can't convince them they do," she lamented. But while the virus is invisible, the symptoms are undeniable. She treats them, and hopes to see them get better, knowing that the most important messages are often those left unsent.

"The people who can talk about their experience with the disease are the lucky ones," Watson says. Some stories, like the young patient who passed, have no one left to tell them.

'Into The Fire'

Dr. Aaron Browne is a physician at UMMC, and for most of 2020 he has lived in hell. He is a resident, a doctor in the final stage of training. The designation has placed his cohort on the front lines of the pandemic as it has ravaged Mississippi.

"Our ER is run by residents. Our hospital is run by residents. You often get four days a month off, max. You work weekends. You come in at 6 in the morning and see COVID until you leave at 7 at night," Browne says.

When he spoke to the Jackson Free Press in the first days of December, using a pseudonym, Browne mixed metaphors, fruitlessly searching for a way to describe the relentless struggle of the residents in a pandemic year.

"There's this undertone," he said. "Like worker bees thrown into the fire." There is no suitable poetic language for it. "We don't get hazard pay, or anything like that." He found a way to laugh, in spite of it all. "Actually, we're lucky we don't make enough to get a pay cut."

Others at UMMC did, with the hospital facing a sharp drop in revenue due to limitations on lucrative elective surgeries.

Every part of his work day exhausts the body and soul. In the mornings he sees his patients. "When it started we'd have one or two COVID patients that we were taking care of. Over the last couple of weeks, that's jumped up to half of our lists—six, seven of the patients we're taking care of," he said.

"You go in, you gown up in all the protective gear. You talk to them, try to provide the best care that you can. And their family can't come. So you're the line of communication."

Browne will never be able to share the private moments and intimate messages the virus forces him to relay, even as they linger in his mind. "There's a kind of emotion that passes between a patient and their family when they're sick," he says. "And now we're—us and nurses—tasked with being that emotional bridge. On the worst days of these people's lives."

"If you could pinpoint what's emotionally draining about all of this," Browne says, "that would be it."

Browne's long days inside the hospital are filled with grief manifested. But the moment he steps outside UMMC the repetitive indignity of disbelief confronts him. "You leave, and you can't even get home before you hear it on the radio," Browne says. "Downplaying what you just saw for the last 12-hour shift."

The new doctor is aware of the intense weight of the virus, pressing down upon him and his colleagues at every turn. "Suicide rates among physicians are incredibly high. Especially training physicians," he said. "Adding the increased stress of coronavirus onto that, plus the constant barrage of people acting like it doesn't exist." His voice trailed off.

"You have to be the mouthpiece for your friends, your family, people you don't even know. You have to convince them that it's real." He has tried that route, and even the glaringly obvious proximity he has to the catastrophe itself is not enough to sway many. "Eventually it just becomes too tiring. You have to learn to tune it out."

But he immediately acknowledges it is a poor remedy. "It keeps eating away at you," Browne said.

'So-Called Experts'

These stories have been a constant in the medical profession during the long months of coronavirus. Health-care workers are caught between two realities. One is the floating world of the hospital and the clinic: logical and antiseptic. Misgivings about the virus' immense danger wither here, buried between rows of the sick and the dying.

The second reality contains everything beyond the emergency-room doors. There, truth becomes a struggle of willpower, not reason. Across Mississippi, a crop of belligerent denialists assert falsehoods and conspiracies to the detriment of their own kinfolk. A north Mississippi mayor divides the deaths against the state's entire population and thus declares the crisis too minimal for the Stafford Act, a federal law that expands executive authority in emergencies. A clinic director downplays the December surge as a phantom of triple-counted tests.

"What a bunch of bullcrap," State Health Officer Dr. Thomas Dobbs raged at a Dec. 2 press event, pushed beyond his usual calm by another repetition of the debunked lie about inflated test numbers. "How many times do we have to tell people this? Quit buying into crazy nonsense!"

The misery apparent in the daily lives of frontline health-care workers shows in the fatigue of public-health leadership. There is only so much soothing they are capable of—the country's collective inability to join together and crush the virus seems more incomprehensible with every passing day.

Dobbs had a desperate plea for the state at a Dec. 4 press event. "What would you do to save a life? What would you do to save 1,000 lives?" He estimated that this might be the cost of the present surge in the span of only a month.

The timeline of an outbreak is set in stone. The health-care system is capable only of mitigating what failed policy and a general disregard for human life has caused. After infection, after hospitalization, comes death. The winter surge has already claimed enough lives to push Mississippi's official COVID-19 death toll above 4,000. And testimony from the state health officer indicates that the true number, based on excess deaths, is already above 5,000.

As of Dec. 8, skyrocketing transmission has driven the seven-day average of new cases to 1,931, higher than virtually any single day prior to December. The week after Thanksgiving was a dizzying rush of unprecedented growth, with over 2,000 cases reported three days in a row.

New hospitalizations—and especially the velocity with which they are arriving—are unlike anything seen in the pandemic in Mississippi so far. Over 1,100 Mississippians afflicted with COVID-19 crowd the state's hospitals, in a lurching upwards climb that has shown no signs of stopping.

"This wave is growing much more quickly than the summer surge (as predicted)," Dobbs tweeted on Dec. 8. "But our future is in our own hands."

And yet, after months of relative cooperation with the state's public-health establishment, Gov. Tate Reeves himself has joined the ranks of the skeptical as the crisis has reached its highest peaks.

It began in late November, as a unified chorus of public-health leaders begged him for a statewide mask mandate ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday. Reeves brushed their concerns off, refusing to expand the restrictions beyond the piecemeal county-level mandates that have proven insufficient to curtail the spread of the virus so far.

The governor declined even to plead with Mississippians to forego the upcoming family gatherings known to be conducive to mass transmission.

"I'm not gonna stand up here and tell you that you can't be with family," Reeves said. "Because each Mississippian has to make their own decisions."

The governor acknowledged that those decisions came with risks. But with so many choosing to take those risks, the oncoming surge has pressed Mississippi's hospital system against its limits and beyond them.

Reeves' hard break with medical expertise has grown beyond a difference of opinion—the governor has begun to use his position to belittle and deny the brutal realities of treating COVID patients in the middle of the surge.

When leadership from UMMC, the Mississippi State Medical Association, the Mississippi Academy of Family Physicians and the American Academy of Pediatrics' Mississippi Chapter issued a joint statement calling for a statewide mask mandate on Nov. 24, the governor mischaracterized their plea for one measure among many others as a "silver bullet," doomed to failure. "I get frustrated when so-called experts decide that if we just did one more thing, that we could change this," Reeves complained when confronted with the letter on the same day.

Only a week later, with the Thanksgiving surge looming above the already overextended hospital system, Reeves again challenged the seriousness of the pandemic by undercutting UMMC's concerns about capacity in an interview on WAPT News.

"That particular institution has over 10,000 employees. Do you know how many patients they had in ICUs with COVID last week? Fourteen. ... I don't think that there are very many people in our state that believe that 14 patients with COVID in a hospital of that size and magnitude should have the kind of significant impact that it's having."

Every part of Reeves' conception of the problem is incorrect. As of the beginning of this week, over a fourth of all ICU patients at UMMC were suffering from COVID. Still, the majority of the severely ill coronavirus patients are in the medical-surgical floors, where a conscious decision to intubate patients at a later stage is leaving a massive burden for the med-surg floor to handle. And the inevitable seasonal crowding of the hospital has removed the limited runway the institution had in the summer.

Furthermore, "10,000 employees" refers to the entire UMMC presence across the state of Mississippi, including support staff, administrators, researchers, accountants, food service, among others. To suggest that this entire body of workers is capable of taking on the extremely technical project of treating COVID-19 is absurd.

A UMMC official confirmed to the Jackson Free Press on Dec. 8 that the hospital is presently at -27 beds, meaning almost 30 patients without proper placement.

Nineteen patients crowd the halls of the hospital, awaiting ICUs capable of handling their critical condition. Some of those are COVID patients. More await beds in the med-surg floors. The hospital is packed full, with transfer requests and surgeries backed up as more patients flood in.

These transfer requests represent the unspoken danger that has arrived with the new peak. It is not enough for UMMC to be operating at max capacity, instead of beyond it. UMMC, as Mississippi's only Level 1 trauma center, is a keystone in the state's entire health-care system.

Without UMMC's flexibility for transfers, and with other states equally maxed out on capacity, it is no longer hypothetical: the immense stress of COVID-19 will greatly harm patients needing care for completely unrelated conditions.

One More Day

Dr. Justin Turner, the CEO of TurnerCare, a Jackson internal medicine clinic, has emerged as an outspoken voice for the medical profession and his patients in the difficult days of the winter surge. In an interview, he acknowledged the pain and the emptiness of serving in a pandemic that has become a conduit for a metastasized political war.

"In April, when things were getting bad, I thought we'd lose some battles, but come together. Because that's what America does," Turner said. In December, that hope is fading. "At this point in history," he added, before a long pause, "we have forgotten who we are."

Turner knows the pain of loss. "My clinic experienced its first death from COVID in late July. And at that point my mental health took a very sharp decline." He follows the admission up quickly. "It's not that I've never experienced death in my clinic before. It was the straw that broke the camel's back, after all the time, the energy ... it felt as if those efforts were pointless, because we are fighting against a systemic mindset."

There, finally, arrives a metaphor suitable for this stage of the pandemic—the proverbial straw. One more patient gulping for oxygen in an overpacked emergency department. One more resident pushed over the brink by a surge without an end in sight. One more lie, one more conspiracy, one more crack in the communal reality that binds a society together.

For Watson and the nurses of 2 North, the only answer has been to look to each other. "What are you feeling? How are you treating your patients? How crazy is all this? Sometimes we're just there to make each other laugh in the middle of a very stressful shift," she said.

A moment of laughter. The support of a friend. A familiar bottle of perfume. Anything, with the weight of the world bearing down, to get through one more day.

Contributing reporter Julian Mills assisted with this report. Email state reporter Nick Judin at nick@jacksonfreepress.com.

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Nick JudinWed, 09 Dec 2020 10:11:45 -0600https://jacksonfreepress.com/news/2020/dec/09/we-have-forgotten-who-we-are-denial-and-death-miss/
Chicks We Love 2020https://jacksonfreepress.com/news/2020/nov/25/chicks-we-love-2020/

The Jackson metro area has a nifty habit of raising and attracting a number of is full of driven, innovative and community-focused residents. This year's Chicks We Love package showcases a number of influential women who do their part to bolster the city that we call home.

Felicia Durham

The current pandemic has created an environment of low-interest rates in the world of real estate, which has resulted in striking changes to the field, but Felicia Durham of EXP 
Realty helps her clients roll with the punches.

"We have more demand than we have supply," Durham says. "People who were previously content in their (living) situations are reaching out, so it's amazing because the market has opened up tremendously."

In the present climate, houses are going on the market and being put under contract 24 to 48 hours later. Because clients have so little time before making their decisions, they can often find themselves overwhelmed, which is why Durham aims to provide support and put them at ease during the process.

"I have to make sure that both the buyer and the seller understand the process," Durham says of her role. "Setting the expectation is the number-one key for both parties."

The expectations can be high in the present market, as Durham notes that many clients who previously had time to look for a new home while selling their own often find themselves with a pressing offer—and thus a pressing need to vacate their own home.

"I encourage patience with my clients," Durham says. "I tell them there's a house for everyone, but you must show patience."

Although Durham spends her days helping clients find their "perfect home," she has some definite ideas about what her own dream house would look like. "My husband was born in the city, but he has a country spirit. So (my ideal house) would be on some land, but I'm going for the kitchen first. That definitely has to be the 'wow factor' for me."

As much as she'd like some room to spread out, Durham jokes that she doesn't want too much space. "Dust builds up, and I'm so busy!" she laughs.

To make realty-related inquiries, find Durham's business page on Facebook. —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Letitia Johnson

When Letitia Johnson ran for a seat on the Jackson Public Schools Board of Trustees in 2017, she wanted to instigate positive change in the school district that serves nearly 24,000 students. 
Five of those students were Johnson's own children, making the mission to improve the local public-school system personal to the now-president of the district's governing body.

Johnson's biggest victory as a board member to date, she says, is seeing JPS initiate a 1:1 program that will provide technological learning tools for its students.

"The last supply of electronic 
devices (that were ordered) is going to be enough for each student to have their own device," Johnson boasts.

This program has been particularly needed in the current school year, as Jackson Public Schools students have been learning entirely remotely due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Despite the successes that Johnson has seen in her three-year tenure, she believes that her work isn't yet 
finished, however.

"I continue to serve because there's still a lot of work left to do," she says. "We've made a lot of progress, but there are still a lot of things I'd like to see done."

In Johnson's view, the biggest determining factor in the district's continued success lies in its teachers and students.

"I wish everyone knew that we have a body of committed teachers and a large spectrum of students who are eager to learn. I think a lot of people don't think we have great things, but those are our two greatest resources," Johnson concludes. —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Jo Beth Murphree

When Jo Beth Murphree's parents gave her a name, they nearly 
predicted her life's trajectory, naming her after a family friend, the wife of the man who would go on to become her high school softball coach and present-day colleague in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

"When I was in high school," Murphree recalled, "I went to FCA to get a free donut. I really didn't understand what it was supposed to be about, but my high school coach taught me what it was all about."

The mission of FCA is to "reach coaches for Christ," as the organization believes that coaches have the ability to have an impact on their players' spiritual development, just as Murphree saw in her own life.

"A lot of kids spend more time with their coach than they do with their parents," Murphree says. "We feel like the lasting impact that coaches will have on their athletes and ultimately on their families and communities will make a huge difference."

Murphree's journey to becoming an area director for FCA was a long one, as she supervised campus ministries at Belhaven University for 15 years prior to accepting her current position.

Presently, the FCA boasts chapters in middle schools, high schools and colleges across the country. Murphree describes the work of "leading coaches and athletes into a lasting relationship with Jesus and the church" as ever-growing.

"I oversee eight counties in central Mississippi, and we don't have a staff in each of those areas yet," Murphree says of her present work. "The main focus right now are Hinds, Rankin and Madison counties. We have some coaches who are leading things, so I'm travelling to minister to coaches until we have staff in place there."

To learn more about the Mississippi FCA, you can visit 
mississippifca.org. —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Monica Daniels

Monica Daniels began working at the Magnolia Speech School after her daughter, Callie Daniels-Bryant, was born profoundly deaf. "(For me), it was about teaching children to listen and to talk, to listen and to be understood and to self-advocate," Daniels says of her work with the school.

These lessons of self-advocacy were deeply ingrained in her daughter, as Callie went on to study journalism at the University of Mississippi, interning at the Jackson Free Press during her time there. Tragically, Callie died in a car accident earlier this year, but for Daniels, the work continues.

Now the president and CEO of Special Olympics Mississippi, Daniels says that the motto of the organization is "the inclusion revolution," which the Fondren resident finds fitting. "When I was offered the position," she recalls, "I thought to myself, 'That's what I've been doing for 27 years—bringing everyone to the table."

One way that Special Olympics Mississippi does just that is through its partnership with the Boys and Girls Club in the Mississippi Delta. A Delta native herself, 
Daniels reached out to the organization and helped the Special Olympics become part of a 
national project to form unified teams, matching athletes with intellectual disabilities to peers within the Boys and Girls Club.

"The bar is set high for physical fitness, health awareness and social engagement," Daniels says of the teams. "We took a flag football team to Seattle, Wash., and we won bronze. Our quarterback is a girl, so we're pretty proud of that."

The Special Olympics in Mississippi offers more than victories on the field, however. "It's a vehicle to promote inclusion," Daniels says. "We bring a movement; we are in the constant motion of educating people." Visit specialolympicsms.org for more information. —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Eva Jones

Each year, Butterflies by Grace Defined by Faith gives a "Shero" award to a survivor of domestic violence, celebrating the recipient's ability to overcome.

"There's a photo of (a past winner) in tears as she accepted her award, and that's worth a million dollars," Eva Jones, founder of the program, says.

Butterflies by Grace Defined by Faith isn't about raising funds; it's about raising awareness of domestic violence, which Jones believes is still enshrouded by a pervasive culture of silence.

"There's a silence because of fear," Jones states. "When it comes to wanting to share or to speak out about their experiences, they're fearful because there's so much victim-blaming. People ask, 'Why does she stay? Why can't he can't just get out of it?'"

Jones asserts that the catalyst to enlightenment for these outsiders-looking-in stems from public education on the topic. "Education is key," Jones says. "Many people don't know what constitutes domestic violence or that it affects both women and men."

Regardless of the form the violence takes, Jones believes that it "robs people of their security, value and hope." Jones' and her organization's role, then, is to grant victims a full restoration of their self-worth, she says. "We have to create a network of people—such as churches, schools, workplaces and agencies—to provide advocacy and safe and effective services to eliminate domestic violence."

Advocates, however, cannot walk in the shoes of a survivor. "Survivors have been let down by so many people who are meant to love them," Jones laments. "So when we tell them that we're going to award them on a night when they put on their best—even if their best is just a smile—you give them so much hope."

Learn more at bbgdf.org. —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Jordan Hankinson

Jordan Hankinson, a visual artist, once spent much of her time peddling her wares at pop-up art festivals around the Jackson metro area. While COVID-19 has cancelled many such events, 
Hankinson is looking forward to getting back to her booth at the upcoming Women's Art Pop-Up at Fondren Public, slated for Dec. 12.

In the interim, Hankinson has adapted to online sales. "I've started an art Instagram, and I've opened an Etsy shop. I think everybody is collectively trying to get their stuff online, and people have definitely been shopping online more lately," Hankinson says.

These online shoppers have plied the artist with commissions, her favorite thus far being a Halloween-themed project she did for a friend to display at her salon opening in Memphis. "It was nice to draw something personal for my friends—something that was happy and fun."

"Happy and fun" also serves as Hankinson's mantra for her art, as she draws inspiration from nostalgic scenes from her childhood. "I still have my 'Madeline' books, and I have a copy of 'Where the Wild Things Are.' Old cartoons inspire my work, too, and I still keep stuffed animals. It's a safe space to me, where I can dive into a different world," she says.

Holding on to these nostalgic memories has helped Hankinson navigate the gloom of the pandemic, and she hopes that her customers will feel the same way. "There are still joyful things going on, so I hope other people get to see things through a child's perspective through my work," she says.

To view Jordan Hankinson's art or to commission an order, find the artist on 
Instagram or Etsy, or you can visit her 
website at jordanhankinson.com. —Taylor McKay Hathorn

Chrissy Cheshire

Over a decade ago, Chrissy Cheshire helped with a fundraiser at an animal shelter. Before she left, the organizers asked her if she wanted to see what she had been raising money for, and Cheshire said yes. The experience was shocking: There were more than 300 dogs at the shelter that day.

After her self-proclaimed "life-changing moment," Cheshire founded Cheshire Abbey, a rescue organization for abused or homeless dogs. "Once we rescue them, we immediately take them to the vet to see what's going on with them," Cheshire says of her nonprofit's work. "We get them spayed or neutered, and since we're foster-based, we then start trying to match people with dog personalities and situations. In essence, we rehabilitate them and find great homes for them."

Not all of Cheshire's rescues find homes in the South, however, given that many southern rescues and shelters are completely overwhelmed, as most southern states do not have the spay and neuter laws common in the northern parts of the country. "There are vans that go north weekly, since (their shelters) don't have the overpopulation problems that we have," she says.

Regardless of where the dogs find their eventual homes, Cheshire's goal for each rescue is the same: for the dog to know the love of a human being.

"A lot of our rescues or abused, neglected or otherwise injured," she says. "A lot of them don't know what it's like to just be a dog and be able to be a companion, and we want to get them into a wonderful home that will give them that."

Presently, Cheshire Abbey is requesting for fellow animal lovers to donate to their cause so that the nonprofit can better pay for the dogs' medical and other bills. Donors can give via PayPal at cheshireabbey@gmail.com and through Venmo at cheshire abbey. —Taylor McKay Hathorn

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JFP StaffWed, 25 Nov 2020 12:57:21 -0600https://jacksonfreepress.com/news/2020/nov/25/chicks-we-love-2020/
Crossroads 2020 Film Reviewshttps://jacksonfreepress.com/news/2020/nov/11/crossroads-2020-film-reviews/

This year's Crossroads Film Festival allows participants to stream any of the event's 18 films on their own time through the festival's end on Dec. 15. Films cover a variety of genres and themes and last anywhere from seven to 108 minutes. Read our writers' reviews of select films below.

'Warrior Women'

Over this last year, many of us have become more aware of the plights that certain 
demographics face in this country—as we witnessed a resurgence of the Black Lives Matter movement, with protesters organizing across the nation to speak out against racial injustice. Interestingly, the documentary film "Warrior Women" addresses a similar movement by taking a close look at the American Indian Movement of the 1970s, which fought for Native American liberation and for survival as a community of extended family.

Mother-daughter duo Madonna Thunder Hawk and Marcella Gilbert—both enrolled members of the Lakota tribe living in South Dakota—narrate the film. The film first contextualizes the historic oppression incurred against Indigenous populations that resulted in decades of inequality and subjugation from the United States. government. Afterward, a scene depicts Gilbert teaching children that the tribe is still living through consequences of a government that reneged on its responsibilities contained in an 1868 treaty.

Once the narrators finished establishing context, the film weaves in the significance of continuous activism, hammering home the message that change occurs when people work together to proclaim the power of collective action. Years ago, for example, Thunder Hawk, an AIM leader, helped shape a group of activists' children in the "We Will Remember" Survivor School, which served as a Native alternative to government-run education.

Scenes show Thunder Hawk reminiscing about what she learned from her involvement in AIM, "Indian Power" messaging, occupation of Alcatraz Island and the Wounded Knee uprising. These experiences taught her about mobilization and committing to a cause, which guided her during the North Dakota protests opposing the Dakota Access Pipeline project.

Like many founding members of Black Lives Matter, the central characters in the documentary are women. In 
addition to the two narrators, the community of Lakota and Native women are shown to generally spearhead the grassroots initiatives to fight for environmental preservation, cultural education and relationship-building among tribes.

"Warrior Women" reminds viewers that the Native struggle for sovereignty and cultural reclamation is far from over, but that many movement leaders remain steadfast in their activism efforts. —Mike McDonald

'Unadopted'

A layperson would probably acknowledge the complexities of the fostercare system, placing into account their interactions with government, the size of the bureaucracy, and the carefulness (or negligence) associated with human lives. "Unadopted" casts light on those possible assumptions, as the main figure and narrator discusses his own hardships and confusion living within the foster system, interviewing several teenagers who have had their own experiences.

Noel was 7 years old when he became a child in the California state foster system, separated from his older sister who was assigned to a foster family in Idaho. As the years passed, he, like many individuals before and after him, began to wonder what his life would have been like if the people biologically related to him were all in one place and things operated as they should in a dreamscape. However, as he recounts in the film, foster children know that reality can act as rebuttal to fantasy.

He seeks to understand the peculiarities of his case. He is no longer a foster child curious about the reason or reasons he was never adopted. Instead, he contends that the failure to adopt reflects as a failure of the system as a whole. Seeking to uncover details of his background, he aims to reconnect with his mother, who expresses remorse and contrition that she was not able to care for him.

Later, he finds comparative understanding with teenagers who have also undergone their own journeys as foster children: one who was offered adoption but declined, one who was legally adopted and has no desire to meet her biological mother, and another who left the bureaucratic environment entirely to fend for herself on the streets of Oakland. Each person has their own path of self-discovery and must reconcile their desire to know with the harsh reality of what they may find.

"Unadopted" presents viewers with a human portrait of the people who share experiences many of us outside the foster system cannot fully understand. Someone who may be considered a typical teenager at first glance may be engaging in issues of identity and emotional development, yet the foster child must contend with normality atop instability and uncertainty, trying to discover where they came from with each passing glance in the mirror. —Mike McDonald

'Paper Boats'

The opening credits of "Paper Boats" showcase the laurels that the short film has garnered in other film festivals, and it's apparent from the outset that the film deserved each of them, as the subtle opening score matches the almost melancholic ambiance of a young artist at work on a set of paper-making creations. The artist's mentor visits and reminds her of the sufferings she endured in her past, 
triggering a series of flashbacks.

The film then takes a dark turn and addresses how the artist and her mentor forged their relationship—the former revealing her own assault at the hands of her father. The mentor, a guidance counselor, advocates for the young woman and removes her from her dangerous situation.

While the bond between the artist and her mentor is undeniable, it is also complicated. The artist failed to remove her sister from the clutches of their father, and that sister is now missing. The narrator is left bound to a past she would rather forget, but she must retain her identity to remain accessible to her sister, whom she hopes will return and absolve her from her regret.

The mentor, too, ties the narrator to her adolescence, and the artistry of the movie pivots around this tension. The mentor forces the artist to confront her past, reminding her that she formed her true identity through what she overcame, not what she suffered. The narrator attempts to make a tenuous peace with this, and the movie suggests that because her discovered joy and triumph exist on the same spectrum as her loss and perceived failure, she cannot have one without the other, and she must find a way to reconcile her dark past with her bright future. —Taylor McKay Hathorn

'Catfish Kingdom'

"He was just my dad," Ed Scott Jr.'s daughter says in her voiceover for the eight-minute documentary. Though she never appears on the screen, she narrates her father's journey to becoming the first non-white owner of a catfish plant in the United States.

Though the film does not downplay the role of racism in Scott's struggle, his daughter provides glimpses of the humor and the salt-of-the earth goodness that her father possessed, humanizing him beyond the legislation that marred his career.

Animations creatively depict the ups and downs of his journey—the motion of the fish placing Scott on the map propelling the viewer to the next phase of Scott's life. Even in the climax of the video, when police come to shut down his business over racially motivated interpretations of farming laws, the focus remains on the animated catfish swimming upstream as they follow the arc of Scott's life and business.

This creative ploy works well, even as the storyline becomes grim: Scott's business is repossessed, and he begins a multi-year court battle to regain it. At this point, a 1985 interview with Scott is played, the only non-animated feature of the film. Scott humbly brushes off the praise he receives, claiming that his own successes speak more broadly to the successes of the community.

While the film reinforces his claim, recounting the jobs he provided to other African Americans, the film eventually returns to his daughter's narration. She states that her father's 2012 case against the racial politics that seized the farm was the last one of its kind, enabling her father to hand the check that would allow him to repurchase his farm from the very man who had seized it.

"The arbiter let my daddy tell his story," she says. "Catfish Kingdom" does the same, soulfully relating Scott's troubles while ensuring that the film itself sings of triumph. —Taylor McKay Hathorn

'The Tides That Bind'

For Clint Buffington, finding messages in a bottle is a way of "opening a window into the life of a stranger," and the documentary plays off this idea, featuring Buffington's search for bottles along waterways and highlighting his response to locating such messages.

Although unearthing a bottle bearing a message is often thought of as a matter of serendipity, Buffington has made it a matter of science, studying tide patterns and floodlines to heighten his chances of discovering a message. Once he finds such a missive, the film is clinical in its exploration of Buffington's subsequent actions, depicting his process of reconstructing messages that have been damaged by tides or the sun and using a diamond drill-bit to open a bottle without damaging its contents.

Merely locating the message is unsatisfying for Buffington, with the majority of the film focusing on his quest to locate the senders of the encapsulated messages, though many years often separate the writing of the message and Buffington's discovery.

Buffington is portrayed as earnest in the extreme, often remarking that he was "meant to find" the messages and that he is single-minded in his determination to locate their senders. He does this with varying degrees of success, as the awkwardness of some meet-ups is undeniable, with the senders clearly not expecting such an enthusiastic response to their one-off epistles.

The documentary does not try to mask this, nor does it expect viewers to view these encounters as a detriment to the story, as the journey of the bottle itself and Buffington's appreciation of that journey are often the focus of the narrative.

Indeed, viewers are challenged—though not in so many words—to usurp the norms of the digital age throughout the video, with the meaningfulness of sending a written message—particularly one that is not guaranteed to be read or responded to—highlighted at every turn. —Taylor McKay Hathorn

'Grapefruit'

In this postmodern spin on Walt Disney's "Cinderella," an unlikely fairy godmother (a mustached puppet with a patched coat) promises a grapefruit that he will transform it into a person so that it can find its one true love. The grapefruit consents, and a beautiful woman emerges from the refrigerator, intent on finding the love of her life.

The short film then takes a sharp detour as the woman glories in her bodily form yet seems confused by its limitations, taking shots of dishwasher detergent and smearing peanut butter on her face.

"Grapefruit"'s gag reel ends abruptly when the woman catches a glimpse of the love of her life, and the movie's strongest feature—the original music—is on full display: The woman sings in front of the windows and doors that separate her from the love of her life. The song is surprisingly stirring, full of longing and the desperation to act on that yearning without the possibility of being let down.

As a viewer, it's almost paralyzing to watch her weigh her options, as you dread her consignment to a life as fridge fodder while still fearing the ways she might embarrass herself if she does risk it all for love.

The woman does take the initial step toward her freedom and her supposed love, though the movie is deliberately ambiguous in answering whether the woman's true goal is freedom or love.

In a surprise ending, the woman returns to her roots (quite literally) to keep the clock from striking midnight on her dream of keeping her new form, and viewers are again left wondering whether the musical score about longing and unrequited love was merely an expression of her dissatisfaction with her current station in life.

The film's director seems to indicate that only those who are brave enough to take their discontentment into their own hands will ever rid themselves of it—an unexpectedly deep twist for a film that features a woman dancing in a skirt made of a trash bag in its earlier scenes. —Taylor McKay Hathorn

'SKY AELANS'

The documentary "SKY AELANS," which translates to "Sky Islands" in English, focuses on the South Pacific nation of the Solomon Islands in greater Oceania. The brief film (six-minute duration) could easily deceive the viewer into thinking they are watching the National Geographic Channel or a program on BBC, half expecting David Attenborough to suddenly offer observations on flora and fauna of the island.

Sweeping camera angles pay homage to the title of the piece, whereby the expanse of the land and surrounding ocean can be thoroughly appreciated from a wide lens. The stars and narrator of the film are the Indigenous people, who speak in a 
Solomon Pijin tongue and communicate their relationship with the land and all who inhabit it, knowing the environment is both sacred and precious.

During the film, the camera also zooms on individual species of plants, reptiles and amphibians, showing off samples of the island's ecosystem. The narrator describes these elements at the sum animating the landmass each morning as they wake. All represented creatures seem exotic and add further credence to the relatively untouched landscape miles away from the urban centers dotting the international map.

The narrators' central message, no matter which specific island being depicted, is the need to protect the environment from exterior forces. Viewers could surmise that these forces include excess industrialism and the commercialization that often accompanies urban areas. The Solomon Islands' government ruled development to be off-limits for elevations above 400 meters.

Island residents consider themselves cogs in the island machinery, working within ecosystems and recognizing the balance achieved by every living creature and the fragility of each biome. They also recognize their place within space and time—that their presence is brief and the trees and rocks and streams will outlast them, inuring a responsibility to care about the treasures the Great Spirit has entrusted upon them. I believe we could all learn a lesson from their appreciation of the land. —Mike McDonald

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JFP StaffWed, 11 Nov 2020 12:15:47 -0600https://jacksonfreepress.com/news/2020/nov/11/crossroads-2020-film-reviews/
Let the People Decide: Hoping for Equality in Votinghttps://jacksonfreepress.com/news/2020/nov/11/let-people-decide-hoping-equality-voting/

In addition to the 18 films being offered during the Crossroads Film Festival, the event will also include a handful of panel discussions. On Sunday, Nov. 15, starting at noon, panelists Dr. Stephanie Rolph, Rev. C. J. Rhodes, Dr. Marty Wiseman, and Ms. Nsombi Lambright will open a dialogue about history and change, and examine pathways that may lead to Mississippians having and more fully exercising their right to vote.

The panel, which The William Winter Institute for Racial Reconciliation sponsors, is meant to amplify and expand themes presented in "Let the People Decide," a film by Gavin Guerra that is offered during this year's Crossroads Film Festival.

Learn more about the panelists:

Dr. Stephanie Rolph is an associate professor in the history department at Millsaps College. Rolph's work focuses on white resistance to civil rights, particularly connections between Deep South segregationists and radical right allies across the country. Her first book, "Resisting Equality: The Citizens' Council, 1954-1989," is a new examination of one of the more widely known resistance organizations during the Civil Rights Movement.

Rev. C.J. Rhodes is the pastor of Mt. Helm Baptist Church and is the youngest pastor to serve Jackson's oldest Black congregation. He also serves as founder and president of Clergy for Prison Reform, Director of Religious and Spiritual Life at Alcorn State University. Rhodes has authored two books and hosts the C. J. Rhodes Show airing on WRBJ 97.7 FM.

Dr. Marty Wiseman is director emeritus of the John C. Stennis Institute of Government, professor emeritus of political science and public administration at MSU, and a guest professor at JSU.

Nsombi Lambright is executive director of One Voice. She also served as executive director of the ACLU of Mississippi, where she led the ACLU's work to end the school-to-prison pipeline, addressing sentencing disparities and other constitutional issues. She sits on the board for the Center for Constitutional Rights, the Mississippi Veterans of the Civil Rights Movement and the New World Foundation.

See "Let the People Decide" from Nov. 15 to Dec. 15 as part of Virtual Crossroads 2020. For tickets and information, visit crossroadsfilmfestival.com.

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Crossroads Film FestivalWed, 11 Nov 2020 11:49:32 -0600https://jacksonfreepress.com/news/2020/nov/11/let-people-decide-hoping-equality-voting/
Crossroads 2020 Film Festival Moves to a Virtual Platformhttps://jacksonfreepress.com/news/2020/nov/11/crossroads-2020-film-festival-moves-virtual-platfo/

Despite the lack of people going to movie theaters because of COVID-19, Crossroads Film Society remains determined to put on a successful film festival, but this year it will look a little different: It will be completely online.

This year's festival, Virtual Crossroads 2020, will be a complete departure from anything Crossroads Film Society has done before. The first major change, however, occurred in November of 2019, well before the pandemic started. The Crossroads Film Society board voted to move the festival from April, where it had been for the past 20 years, to November.

"That was a fortunate thing for us, because if we had had our film festival in April, I'm sure we couldn't have pulled it off. The fact that we moved it to the fall turned out to be a good thing for us," Crossroads' Festival Coordinator Michele Baker said.

The festival will take place through the online platform Eventive from Nov. 12 to Dec. 15, and tickets will be available for purchase starting Nov. 12. The festival typically lasts for one weekend and shows around 125 films, but this year it will last for a month and show 18 films. Workshops and panel discussions will be live-streamed, and each film will be available until Dec. 15 through video-on-demand.

Normally in her role of festival coordinator, Baker helps to create the process of selecting films and finding volunteers to work the festival and sell tickets; now, her role has completely been transformed.

Throughout 2020, Baker has been hard at work helping move the festival to an online platform.

"The hardest part has been figuring out what putting on a virtual festival means. For a long time, I was still thinking in the mindset of a physical festival, and it isn't. You just have to turn all your ideas on your head," Baker said.

One of Crossroads' missions is to 
celebrate film in all of its diversity, and Baker is hoping people will still come out and support independent filmmakers and their movies, even with it being completely online.

"People are Zoomed out and have screen fatigue. I'm just hoping and praying that my films are good enough to encourage them to get back on the computer or TV and pay money to watch these indie films. There's stuff from all over the world, and it's exceptionally good filmmaking," Baker said.

Crossroads Film Society is also going to do a profit share with filmmakers. If people buy a ticket for a block of films, a percentage of sales will go directly to filmmakers. Thus, by attending Virtual Crossroads 2020, participants not only see well-regarded films, they also support filmmakers directly.

On Sunday, Nov. 15, Virtual Crossroads 2020 will release the film "Let the People Decide"—a project that was created with the help of the William Winter Institute of Racial Reconciliation. Along with the screening, Portia Espy and Von Gordon of Winter Institute coordinate a panel 
discussion of the film.

"Mississippians are some of the most inspired storytellers, and these stories need to be told. These stories are important. And I feel that it's equally important to bring those other sorts of small intimate stories to Mississippi," Baker said. "I think that exchange—our storytelling going out into that world and other stories going in—makes this a vibrant place to live. I always say that film is the most equalizing of the artforms, so I think it's important to keep that as a very accessible artform."

See the full schedule for Virtual Crossroads 2020 and buy tickets at crossroadsfilmfestival.eventive.org/welcome.

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Jenna GibsonWed, 11 Nov 2020 11:45:33 -0600https://jacksonfreepress.com/news/2020/nov/11/crossroads-2020-film-festival-moves-virtual-platfo/
‘Dear Johnny Reb,’ an Anti-Love Letter to Confederate Memorials in Mississippihttps://jacksonfreepress.com/news/2020/nov/11/dear-johnny-reb-anti-love-letter-confederate-memor/

In his recent short film, "Dear Johnny Reb," Jacksonian Philip Scarborough and a group of native Mississippians lament the damage that these statues have wrought through their immobility, and the film celebrates Mississippi history while indicting its darkest moments.

When he was 3 years old, the Jackson-born Scarborough and his family moved to Dothan, Ala., where his interest in filmmaking developed during his teenage years. After studying film at the University of Southern Mississippi, Scarborough returned to Jackson and began working in the film industry, eventually co-founding Spot On Productions with Tom Beck in 2011—a company that produces commercials, documentaries and corporate videos.

You start the video with the Confederate statue in Jackson. What's the significance of that for you, as a native?

I've lived in Jackson longer now than I lived anywhere else, and I was born here, at St Dominic's. I thought it was appropriate to start in Jackson, and it's also the Capitol.

Your video notes that there are around 100 Confederate monuments in Mississippi. How many monuments appear in the video, and how did you choose the ones that appeared?

There are 42 in the film, and according to my research, which I did mainly with the Mississippi Department of Archives and History and the internet, there are over 150 memorials of some kind to the confederacy (in Mississippi). That's counting the ones in the Vicksburg Military Park, which is where they should be.

(In the video), I focused on what's called the sentinels (soldier statues). There are 43 or 44 of those, so I focused on those because most are on courthouse lawns. Since I'm talking to these statues of the confederacy, I focused on the sentinels because they're statues of people.

When I filmed, I thought I did all of them. There were two I didn't know about, which bugs me, but those two were put up at the same time, by the same people, for the same reasons. So, there's a continuity that connects the statues. I also wanted to keep it short, and I didn't want it to be overwhelming. If I had done every statue, I would still be filming. Getting people to be in it was not easy.

Really? What was difficult about the recruitment process?

Only a third of the people I asked agreed to be in it. Most people said they agreed with the idea, but they said they couldn't be in it because they worked for the state or for the government. They were—I guess—scared. I don't completely blame them; they didn't know how the film would look in the end. I think they were afraid of the repercussions and the blow back from the film—which there hasn't been any.

Everybody who is in it are friends of friends and family friends, because it was just word-of-mouth, trying to get people to be in it. I tried to get a person from every town, but that was kind of impossible. Everyone (who did end up in the video) is a Mississippi resident. That was important to me—that they agree with the premise of the film.

Tell me about the writing of the letter that's read to the statues throughout the film.

I wrote it, but I was working on another film—which I'm still working on—which is about Mississippi history. Right when the Civil Rights Museum opened (in Jackson), I started going because I was having a problem finding research materials on Mississippi civil-rights history, so the museum was a dream come true. There's so much information there. I took a pencil and pad after the first time I went because it was overload.

So I went a dozen different times, and I did a section at a time. I wrote words that I saw and tried to trace the chronological story of Mississippi—not just civil-rights history, but the history of the whole state. The idea of me talking to the statues was an old idea of mine—for someone to notice the statue and start talking to it.

I took all my notes from the museum, and I wrote that letter. Everything in it came from the Civil Rights Museum. I'm a descendant of at least five Confederate soldiers, and I wrote a letter to them, to their ghosts, to their effect on me. It's still a literal letter to these Confederate soldiers: You did what you thought was right at the time, but it's over. Go home. I didn't want to be disrespectful to people's ancestors, but still—they fought to maintain the slave economy, so I wanted to be firm. It's almost like the statues are on trial.

From that letter, “You are a traitor and un-American” was the only line not delivered in English. What’s the significance of that?

I wanted another language (in the video) because not all Americans speak English. I wanted a friend of mine from the Choctaw tribe to say, "That's just the tip of the iceberg" in Choctaw, but there's no Choctaw word for iceberg. We tried to figure out a substitution, but there wasn't one.

Mostly, I just wanted to be inclusive. I wanted it to represent modern Mississippi.

The letter goes on to say, “All of this has become your heritage.” How do we separate Johnny Reb’s heritage from our own as Mississippians, or do we?

That line is making reference to people who defend the Confederacy by saying, "It's heritage, not hate." We need to celebrate the African American heritage in Mississippi more because they have made Mississippi what it is, as far as the blues and the food culture. All the positive things people think of when they think of Mississippi, they think of that culture. I think our new flag should have B.B. King on it, myself. (Laughs)

The number of descendants of slaves in Mississippi is humongous, and we need to recognize it. You can't erase the past, and we can still look at the Old South, but you've got to have context. We don't need to tear the statues down with a mob, but we need to talk about it. I personally think they should take all of them down, but if they don't take (them) down, they need to have a plaque for context.

People go to courthouses to seek justice, and (sentinels) don't belong on a courthouse lawn. These men actively fought against the Union. Some people don't know what they don't know, and (talking about it) would help start the process because it would help people like that see how other southerners see the statues, who are just as much Mississippians as they are. Our heritage is not a fuzzy, "Gone with the Wind" heritage. There should be memorials to the horrors of slavery and to the descendants of slaves. (Mississippi was) ground zero for slavery, so we should have the biggest one. I maybe should not be the person (to instigate the change), but maybe someone who sees the film will make that change.

What was the inspiration for the original score?

A friend of mine, a musician from Jackson who spends a lot of time in Oxford, Cole Furlough, (composed the score). My friend Alex Warren introduced us, since I wanted a Mississippi composer to compose the music and record it.

I wanted it to be orchestral—mainly violins and cellos. It was based on Vivaldi's "The Four Seasons" and "Violin Phase" by Steve Reich. I let Cole hear that, and he had some other ideas.

He got a member of the Mississippi Symphony Orchestra to play (his composition). I got teary-eyed when he first played it because it was the perfect piece. I love classical music and real instruments. I don't like using electronic music for my films.

Watch "Dear Johnny Reb" during the Crossroads Film Festival, which will be virtual this year and take place from Nov. 12 to Dec. 15. You can buy tickets now at crossroadsfilmfestival.eventive.org/welcome.

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Taylor McKay HathornWed, 11 Nov 2020 11:37:17 -0600https://jacksonfreepress.com/news/2020/nov/11/dear-johnny-reb-anti-love-letter-confederate-memor/
2020 Election Issue Espy v. Hyde-Smith, Westbrooks v. Griffishttps://jacksonfreepress.com/news/2020/oct/28/2020-election-issue-espy-v-hyde-smith-westbrooks-v/

It was an early September evening at a Mike Espy rally perfectly suited for 2020. A sea of cars, not people, clustered below the stage. Espy had yet to arrive. The speech of the hour came from Court of Appeals Judge Latrice Westbrooks, a candidate for the Mississippi Supreme Court.

"Young people ask me: Why should we vote? Why should we care? And I tell them, see what's happening in our country. Ahmaud Arbery. George Floyd. Jacob Blake. The decisions that are going to be made in those cases are going to be made by elected officials. Whether you vote or not," Westbrooks exclaimed.

Contained in that speech was all the passion of the moment, the same focused anger that had built all summer long, honed in protests on the street and petitions in the halls of power.

"In Mississippi, your coroner is elected. The coroner is the person who decides whether your death is accidental, a suicide, a homicide ... Your district attorney is elected. Your attorney general is elected. Your judges are elected. Your jury comes from registered voters. That," Westbrooks finished, "is why you should care."

On Nov. 3, 2020, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Mississippi heads to the polls.

On the ballot, the presidential election headlines a contest that includes the long-awaited Senate rematch between former U.S. Rep. and Agriculture Secretary Mike Espy and incumbent U.S. Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith.

In addition, a competitive race for Mississippi's Supreme Court District 1, which includes the Jackson metro area, pits Court of Appeals Judge Latrice Westbrooks against appointed incumbent Justice Kenny Griffis.

The nominally non-partisan judicial election has taken on a distinctly political valence with 2020's presidential elections looming above.

Rounding out the ballot, voters are faced with three initiatives on a broad range of issues. Initiative Measure 65 would enshrine access to medical marijuana in the state's constitution, mandating a plan to provide the treatment to qualified Mississippians by August 2021. 
 An alternative measure, 65A, provides a murky allowance for a medical-marijuana program with few concrete steps toward its establishment.

House Concurrent Resolution 47 would put an end to the state's electoral-college system, which demands candidates for statewide office receive both a majority of the vote and wins in a majority of Mississippi House of Representatives districts.

If adopted, a simple majority of voters would suffice for an election.

House Bill 1796 may return a state flag to Mississippi: one the State Flag Commission selected earlier this year after the old one finally came down. A ring of stars and the words "In God We Trust" encircle a magnolia emblazoned on a red, yellow and blue background.

Espy vs. Hyde-Smith Rematch

After the presidential contest, the rematch between former U.S. Rep Mike Espy and Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith tops Mississippi's ballot. With Mississippi polling comfortably in President Donald Trump's favor, it is the Espy-Hyde-Smith election that may hint at the state's political future.

Espy, a Democrat and a veteran of the Clinton administration, has run a campaign that has taken on increasing national significance, drawing the endorsements of former President Barack Obama, current presidential candidate Joe Biden and Democratic Rep. Bennie Thompson, a party pillar in Mississippi.

The former U.S. Agriculture secretary has run a different kind of campaign for a Democrat in Mississippi, clearly betting on a larger and more excited voter base. He hasn't tiptoed around support from Black Democrats like Thompson and Obama, unlike the Jim Hood campaign for governor in 2019, when Democrats would not use an Obama robocall until the night before the election. And during a presidential election year, where Democrats hope to take over the U.S. Senate, Espy raised a remarkable $3.9 million in donations in recent weeks, compared to the incumbent's $85,000.

Hyde-Smith, the Republican incumbent, has chosen a much different strategy, avoiding the public scrutiny that dogged her in the candidates' first contest in 2018 by simply avoiding non-Republican press, as well as direct confrontations with her opponent. Her focus in campaign ads on "liberals" and national Dems shows an effort to win over white conservative voters in Mississippi for a second victory over Espy with a limited public presence and an endorsement from President Trump, who she proudly supports across the board.

In an Oct. 23 interview with the Jackson Free Press, Espy said Hyde-Smith's refusal to engage with the press or public debates is an insult to the people of Mississippi. "If you don't campaign, you're disrespecting your constituency. It's as if you're taking them for granted," Espy said.

Previously, Hyde-Smith mocked the notion that she should have to participate in a debate with Espy, as if it were beneath her. "The only people interested in debates are reporters and losing candidates," the senator quipped on Oct. 14. "There's stark differences between the two of us," she said the day before. "I don't know what there is to debate."

Espy agreed that the differences between the two candidates are striking. "I believe in Medicaid expansion, she doesn't. I believe in the continuation of the Affordable Care Act, she doesn't. I believe in coverage for preexisting conditions, she doesn't," he said.

Espy's television ads have portrayed him as a senator for all Mississippians without vilifying conservative voters. Instead, they focus on issues like health care, painting a picture of Hyde-Smith as an ineffective senator who is not passing legislation that helps Mississippians.

Cindy Hyde-Smith's campaign did not respond to a request for an interview.

The differences between the candidates extend far beyond health care, the banner issue in the Senate contest. The political analysis website fivethirtyeight.com tracks Hyde-Smith's voting record as 95% aligned with President Trump and 10th among all active U.S. senators.

In his closing argument to the Jackson Free Press, Espy attacked Hyde-Smith's effectiveness as much as her partisanship, saying she was trying to tout her predecessor's record as her own.

"She has not passed any bills," Espy said. "She's not had any town meetings. She said she passed CHIP (the Children's Health Insurance Program): that was a lie. That was Thad Cochran. She's voted 21 times against Mississippi's citizens by voting against (covering) pre-existing conditions."

Espy said the consequences to Hyde-Smith's leadership are an increasingly invisible Mississippi on a national scale. "I was shaving in my house the other day. Hurricane Sally was coming, and I had my ear on the path of the storm," Espy said. "I heard a national weather forecaster say the hurricane would hit 'a landmass between Mobile and New Orleans.' I nearly cut myself. That is a metaphor ... Cindy Hyde-Smith is doing it. In two years! How can you not stand before the people? How can you not pass any bills?"

Espy contrasted this with his own record in the U.S. House.

"I've already been a congressman where I've worked with Republicans. My first bill I passed as a freshman was a major economic-development deal. ... Thad Cochran signed on to it, and Ronald Reagan signed it into law. I did that when I was 33 in 1986. There's no way I'm not going to do that in a more assiduous way (as senator.)"

The challenger, once considered a long shot in a consistently red state, is looking to erase the distance between himself and Hyde-Smith in the polls, leveraging the passive campaign she has run as an incumbent, but also the overwhelming national support he has received since announcing his campaign. He believes he can win.

Experience and Perspective: Westbrooks v. Griffis

A competitive matchup of competing judicial philosophies headlines the state's Supreme Court races, as Judge 
Latrice Westbrooks attempts to unseat Justice Kenny Griffis for an eight-year term in District 1, which bisects the state, serving the Jackson metro area and much of the Mississippi Delta.

Both candidates spoke with the Jackson Free Press in Oct. 23 phone interviews, describing their legal and judicial experience, contrasting their philosophies and priorities ahead of the election.

Former Gov. Phil Bryant appointed Griffis in 2019, succeeding Chief Justice William Waller, who would later challenge then Lt. Gov. Tate Reeves for the Republican nomination for governor. Previously, Griffis served as a judge on the Mississippi Court of Appeals from 2003 to 2019, and was selected for the position of chief judge prior to his 2019 appointment.

It's this experience that Griffis argues is foundational to his bid for a full term on the state's highest court. "I've written 1,000 majority opinions," Griffis said in the interview. "I've got two decades of proven appellate judicial experience."

Westbrooks' most recent experience is also at the appellate level. She was elected to the Mississippi Court of Appeals in 2016, after a varied legal career that includes time spent as a private lawyer, a public defender and an assistant district attorney. This diversity of experience, Westbrooks says, puts her in a uniquely qualified position to see where the state's judicial system can improve.

"Being a prosecutor, being a public defender, that is the best kind of trial experience you can get as an attorney," she said in the interview. "I've been in trenches. I've had to present evidence, I've had to convince juries. I understand from different perspectives what is required."

In her role on the appellate level, she "can see what's happening on the trial level ... that avails you the opportunity to have that discussion with other judges and justices, to inform them from your perspective."

But identity and the perspective it brings is also a meaningful issue in the District 1 election. Westbrooks pointed out that only 4 Mississippi Supreme Court justices have been women. If elected, she would be the first Black woman to have ever joined its ranks.

"(Our laws) impact you, impact me... they impact everyone. Representation is critically important. You have representation at the table where decisions are being made. But no one who looks like me is sitting at that table," Westbrooks said.

Griffis is less interested in the topic. "The issue of race and gender has been brought up, and it's not been brought up by me. I just believe that this race should be based on our experience and our judicial philosophy," he said.

Both Westbrooks and Griffis have distinct judicial projects they wish to pursue if elected. For Westbrooks, the right to a fair trial for all criminal defendants demands an expansion of the public defender's office.

Westbrooks is concerned that most court-appointed public defenders, operating on an hourly basis, lack the ability to determine their own strategy in court. "You have public defenders who are actually 
appointed by the court, and you have public defenders who are actually salaried and operate as a public defender's office. And there are only four of those in the state."

"The public-defender system needs to be able to operate on the same level as the district attorney's office," she said, explaining that Mississippi's public defenders needed more resources to properly hold the state accountable. 
 "The district attorney's office does not have to go to the court to ask for funds to, (for example) hire an expert. They have a budget they operate out of."

"But the public defender may go before a judge (for their strategy) who says 'the DA's office is not using that type of evidence, so I'm not going to allow you to use that expert.'"

Griffis did not "necessarily agree" with Westbrooks' plan to expand the public defender's office, but acknowledged the need for "conversations (on) whether we need to continue with a county-based public-defender office or move ... to statewide or district-based."

His key issues are the simplification of the state's judicial rules and technological innovation. "We've learned through this COVID crisis that our courts need to be more up to date with technology," Griffis explained. His plan is to expand digital access to court documents and public accessibility to court hearings.

But in addition to modernizing the judicial system's digital capabilities, Griffis wants to consolidate many of the rules for the various courts across the state.

"One of the reasons that lawyers have become so expensive and unaffordable for regular people is that we have 23 sets of rules that govern the practice of law. We've got different rules for Chancery Court and different rules for Circuit Court and Justice Court. We've got so many rules that ... some lawyers are driven out of court."

A reduction in attorneys available to practice in distinct areas of the law drives up the price of those services, Griffis said: "We've got to take these 23 sets of rules and update those. We've got to reduce the sheer volume of those rules."

While judicial elections in Mississippi are non-partisan, there are distinctly political overtones to the Westbrooks-Griffis race. Griffis' campaign ads tout him as a "constitutional conservative," and the justice has acquired the endorsements of Republicans like Phil Bryant, Delbert Hosemann and Michael Guest.

Westbrooks has appeared at campaign rallies with former Rep. Mike Espy and drawn endorsements from key Democratic figures, including U.S. Congressman 
Bennie Thompson.

Initiative 65: Medical Marijuana

Mississippi's most contentious ballot initiative is also its most complex: Initiative Measure No. 65 is a ballot measure that proposes two separate plans for creating a medical-marijuana program for Mississippi.

Initiative 65 is the original measure, which amends the state constitution to direct the Mississippi State Department of Health to establish a medical-marijuana program by August 2021. From that point forward, Mississippians suffering from 22 different "debilitating medical conditions," including glaucoma, sickle-cell anemia, post-traumatic stress disorder, epilepsy and more, would be eligible to acquire up to 2.5 ounces of marijuana with a certification from a Mississippi-licensed physician.

Initiative 65A, which Rep. Trey 
Lamar, R-Senatobia, added to the ballot in early March with House Concurrent Resolution 39, is the legislative counteroffer. If 65A passes, the Legislature will be tasked with creating a medical-marijuana program at a later date limited solely to individuals with terminal medical conditions.

U.S. Senate candidate Mike Espy supports Initiative 65, telling the Jackson Free Press that "I encourage everyone to vote for 65. It alleviates suffering. From what I'm reading, this is a possible source of relief for those who need it."

Joining Espy in supporting the initiative is Antonia Eliason, a law professor at the University of Mississippi and a candidate for the U.S. House of Representatives in Mississippi's 1st congressional district. Eliason said in an Oct. 26 interview that Initiative 65 is "extremely well-thought out and crafted," a measure necessary to provide suffering Mississippians with treatments for chronic illnesses previously banned.

U.S. Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith opposes Initiative 65, on the grounds that expanded access to medical marijuana should be "something the Legislature can control," as she told WJTV in October.

The Mississippi State Department of Health and the Mississippi State Medical Association also oppose Initiative 65, pushing instead for Mississippians to adopt the alternative measure. State Health Officer Dr. Thomas Dobbs shared his fears in a MSMA press release that "Initiative 65 would inappropriately require us to divert already-limited resources for the benefit of an incredibly complicated industry."

Dr. Jennifer Bryan, chairwoman of the MSMA board of trustees, told the Jackson Free Press in an Oct. 26 interview that Initiative 65 lacks the "guard rails" necessary to protect Mississippians. For Bryan, the certification 65 provides patients is too broad. "The doctor has no say over the patient walking into a dispensary and getting joints to smoke, or gummy bears, or whatever form of medical marijuana they want," she said.

Furthermore, she worries that the tax revenue from medical marijuana, which 65 diverts entirely to pay for the program itself, includes no money for public-health initiatives.

Eliason, however, sees 65A as a ruse meant to delay access to medical marijuana indefinitely. "The reality is if Initiative 65A passes, there's not going to be any medical marijuana, because they're going to find ways to stymie it—they've done it for decades."

Eliason, who teaches contract law at the University of Mississippi, called 65A a textbook example of an illusory promise. Bryan agreed that the stipulations of 65A were extremely vague, but said that was a positive. "The lack of specificity is there because (then) we could write something that makes sense when we get input from physicians and health leaders."

The concerns over tax revenues, Eliason says, are misguided. "This program is paying for itself. You can't have it both ways," Eliason said.

"This is medical marijuana: it's really limited. If we were talking about recreational marijuana, then I would definitely want to see some tax revenue coming back in."

Most opponents of Initiative 65, even those who prefer the alternative measure, call for a "no" vote on both measures. Voters supporting the push for a concrete roadmap to medical marijuana in the state must vote "for approval of either" in the first box and "Initiative 65" in the second.

House Concurrent Resolution 47: Ending State Electoral College

Mississippi's own version of the electoral college is a relic of its racist 1890 constitution, which sets up two necessary requirements for candidates seeking election to statewide office including governor: a majority of votes as well as victory in a majority of House of Representative districts, of which there are 122.

House Concurrent Resolution 47, authored by Rep. Charles Jim Beckett, R-Bruce, removes that second requirement entirely, meaning candidates for statewide office in Mississippi can win with a simple majority of votes.

The 1890 constitution, drafted in the wake of Reconstruction and years of sanctioned white violence in reaction to the post-Civil War enfranchisement of Mississippi's Black population, included provisions of the district requirements for statewide elections as well as a raft of other restrictions intended to, in the words of Mississippi Gov. James K. Vardaman, "eliminate the n--r from politics." The new restrictions, as well as a sustained campaign of racist intimidation, violence and murder successfully disenfranchised Black Mississippians until the 1960s era.

In an interview with the Jackson Free Press, candidate Mike Espy shared his support for H.C. 47, calling the state's electoral college system "crazy." "That's a facet of the 1890 constitution. That should've been gone 20 or 30 years ago," he said. If HCR 47 succeeds at the ballot in November, it will be.

New Magnolia Flag on Ballot

Four years after the adoption of the 1890 constitution, the Mississippi Legislature adopted a new state flag, replacing the earlier Magnolia tree. The blue, white and red tricolor included a prominent Confederate saltire, the "southern cross" from Robert E. Lee's Army of Northern Virginia—the flag that became the symbol of the "lost cause" of the Confederacy in the South after the war.

Over a century later, increasing opposition to the state flag's Confederate imagery remained a key issue in popular protests erupting in response to police brutality and systemic racism in Mississippi and across the nation.

In June, following the police killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis, Minn., Mississippians gathered in front of the governor's mansion to demand a new social contract, one without the Confederate nostalgia that suffused so much of the state's official imagery. Speakers from Black Lives Matter Mississippi called for a change in the state flag, and protesters shouted for change at the Confederate flag hanging above the capitol.

Less than a month later, that change arrived. The Mississippi Legislature cobbled together a supermajority capable of suspending the rules—late in the extended session—and adopting a bill to remove the state flag, establishing a committee to collect designs for a new one.

The design contest selected a flag put designed by Mississippians Rocky Vaughan, Sue Anna Joe and Kara Giles, with a magnolia bloom as the focal point on a field of blue, red and bronze. The flag bears the words "In God We Trust," an inclusion mandated in the bill that established the flag commission.

If Mississippians vote to accept the new state design, it will end the long saga of the state's Confederate flag. If they reject it, the flag commission will begin the process anew, gathering input from Mississippians to put on the ballot next year.

Email state reporter Nick Judin at nick@jacksonfreepress.com.

Election on Nov. 3

The election is on Tuesday, Nov. 3, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Anyone who registered to vote by Oct. 5 is eligible to cast a ballot. Voters must bring a state-accepted form of photo ID to the voting booth.

Absentee voting is available to voters over the age of 65, if you will be away from your polling place on the day of the election, if you cannot leave work while polls are open, if you have been placed under a physician-imposed quarantine or if you are caring for someone under a physician-imposed quarantine.

Voters over the age of 65 or those with chronic illnesses are eligible for a free mask and face shield at all Mississippi State Department of Health county testing locations. A list of locations can be found at msdh.ms.gov.

All voters should maintain their distance wherever possible at the polling place, and remain masked for the entire duration of the voting process, unless a poll worker explicitly asks you to remove your mask to verify your identity.

More information on voting, absentee voting, polling locations and voter ID is available on the secretary of state's website at sos.ms.gov.

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Nick JudinWed, 28 Oct 2020 12:01:27 -0500https://jacksonfreepress.com/news/2020/oct/28/2020-election-issue-espy-v-hyde-smith-westbrooks-v/