v10n20 - 10th Annual Best of Jackson

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January 25 - 31, 2012

January 25 - 31, 2012

jacksonian

VOL.

1 0 N O . 20

contents TATE K NATIONS

BRIANA ROBINSON

14 Community From arts organizations to preachers and community visionaries, Jacksonians picked the best.

WILLIAM PATRICK BUTLER

Cover painting

by Tony Davenport

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THIS ISSUE: Urban Living

TATE K NATIONS

kristen ley born in Houston, but Ley would rather talk about Jackson. “There’s so much cool stuff that goes on in Jackson and in our state, and I feel like it sometimes gets overlooked,” she says. “Taking the great amazing things about this city and enhancing them and talking about them—I think that’s the first step.”

Ley loves meeting new people and was excited to attend the Greater Jackson Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership Greater Jackson class series.

“The first day I walked into Leadership Jackson, I didn’t know a soul, and I was so thrilled,” Ley says. She’s a member of the forthcoming Leadership Greater Jackson Class of 2012. “They’re all so unique and smart and wanting Jackson to be this amazing thing.”

Ley attended high school at Jackson Academy where she works now as a graphic designer. She graduated from Mississippi State University in 2007 with a degree in graphic design and a minor in marketing. She also does freelance consulting and design for businesses and is the marketing director for the Mississippi Breast Center, her father’s practice.

“I’ve taken on a whole new appreciation for the city and want to see it blossom and grow. It is an amazing city,” she says.

Visit Ley’s Thimblepress Facebook page or go to etsy.com/shop/thimblepress to find out more about the company or to buy prints.

—Briana Robinson

34 Food & Drink Food! Glorious food! We southerners know how to do it up right.

Look no further to find the best.

46 Nightlife & Music When you’re ready for an adult beverage and some grooves—gentle to harsh—Jackson has you covered.

jacksonfreepress.com

Wearing white, paint-splattered pants and a French beret and holding a painting palette, 5-year-old Kristen Ley decided she wanted to be an artist. Her mom had dressed her up as one for career day. “I don’t ever remember a time when I wasn’t doing art,” Ley says.

Now 27, Ley has fine-art watercolor prints of six Jackson monuments for sale online. She painted some of her favorite places: Brent’s Drugs, the Standard Life building, the King Edward, Walker’s Drive-In, the Mayflower Café and Fondren Corner.

Ley did the paintings originally for her dad’s birthday gift, but he thought more people would want to see them. Ley did a set of similar prints in 2006 for Mississippi State University Students Association. Now that she has some to sell, she is donating 30 percent of the proceeds to fund Leadership Greater Jackson projects such as the program at Oak Forest Elementary School.

The prints are the first projects of Thimblepress, a combination art, sewing, design, and woodworking studio Ley started about three weeks ago.

“This whole selling-my-prints thing is new to me, so it’s overwhelming. But it’s also fun, and it’s exciting that people want to put my prints in their home or their office,” the artist says.

Ley’s love for Jackson started when she moved here with her family at age 12. She was

WILLIAM PATRICK BUTLER

4 .........Publisher’s Note 4 ................... Slowpoke 7 .......................... Talks 10 ......................... Tech 12 ................... Editorial 12 ................. Mike Day 12 ..................... Stiggers 13 .................. Opinion 14 ....... Best of Jackson 60 ..................... 8 Days 61 .............. JFP Events 62 .......... Music Listing 64 ...................... Sports 69 ................. Astrology 69 ..................... Puzzles 38 ................. Body/Soul

A city’s got to have everything from annual events to shopping to yoga studios. Here’s your guide to the best.

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Kristin Brenemen Art Director Kristin Brenemen is an otaku with a penchant for dystopianism. Her Zombie Survival Kit has been upgraded with three new sonic screwdrivers.

She designed the cover and many pages in this issue.

Tony Davenport Visual artist and educator Tony Davenport is a Vicksburg native now living in Jackson. His painting is featured on the cover of this issue.

Briana Robinson Deputy Editor Briana Robinson is a 2010 graduate of St. Andrew’s Episcopal School. Her hobbies include photography, ballet and ballroom dancing. She is a sophomore at Millsaps College.

She coordinated the Best of Jackson issue.

ShaWanda Jacome ShaWanda Jacome is a 6thgrade JPS teacher. She lives in Ridgeland with her husband, Michael, and son, Mateo. “May the odds be ever in your favor,” she says. She assigned and wrote the Best of Jackson blurbs.

Holly Harlan Holly Harlan is a Millsaps College student from Biloxi. She is a design intern at the JFP. She adores playing fetch with her pomeranian, Prince Charming.

She helped design ads and pages for this issue.

Pamela Hosey Pamela Hosey is originally from West Point, Miss. She loves to write, read James Patterson novels and spend time with her family. She wrote for Best of Jackson.

Bret Kenyon Pittsburgh, Pa., native Bret Kenyon is a Belhaven College theater graduate who enjoys theater, music and writing.

He has worked with Off Kilter Comedy, Hardline Monks and Fondren Theatre Workshop. He wrote for Best of Jackson.

January 25 - 31, 2012

Marissa Lucas

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JFP Sales Assistant Marissa Lucas is a Gulfport native who studied psychology at Mississippi State University. She loves her cat Martha, cooking and traveling.

publisher’snote

by Todd Stauffer, Publisher

Celebrating The Best

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elcome to our tenth annual “Best of Jackson” edition, celebrating the best that Jackson and its surrounding communities have to offer in terms of people, places, services and products. (And, yes, lots of food and drink.)

It’s been our pleasure to serve up the Best of Jackson every year since we started the Jackson Free Press in 2002, via a reader poll that has grown steadily (almost unwieldy!) the past few years. And we’re pleased to be able to put all of that together in the biggest single issue of the Jackson Free Press that we’ve ever published.

One thing I’d like to emphasize is this: Not only is Best of Jackson purely a reader poll (as opposed to editorial picks), but the way we’ve always done it is via an open ballot—meaning every vote is a “write-in” vote. So ... just being a finalist really is an accomplishment. It means voters manually typed or wrote in your name for that category, making a concerted effort to recognize you. They didn’t just fill in bubbles or pick from a menu—they thought about it, chose your name and gave you the thumbs up. So even if you’re not First Place, congratulations are certainly in order. (Not that First Place isn’t a sweet victory!)

The other thing I’d like to highlight is how many readers we have to thank for voting each year. Not only does the total keep going up, but we know that the effort involved keeps going up, too. This year, we included more than 175 categories, even though we keep telling ourselves that we’re going to cut them back! There are just some fantastic things to celebrate in Jackson, and we want as many people and places as possible to have an opportunity to be a part of it.

Of course, what we call “Best of Jackson season” wouldn’t be complete without a party, and we’ve got what we hope will be a heck of a party planned. The location has been revealed to readers of the JFP Daily e-blast, as well as finalists in this year’s contest. If you feel we’ve overlooked you, email us at marissa@jacksonfreepress.com.

Thanks to Shannon Barbour for coordinating the event, Sales Assistant Marissa Lucas for putting together much of the food and logistics, and the venue folks— you know who you are!—for everything you’ve done as well. (More on all that in a week or two.)

Hats off, by the way, to staffers and freelancers who helped with this issue, with much of the in-house coordination done by Deputy Editor Briana Robinson, with offsite work on the assigning and writing of the issue by former editorial assistant ShaWanda Jacome. Also a salute to Kimberly Griffin, Adam Perry and Mandy Beach of the sales staff for working with so many advertisers in such a short time, and to Andrea Thomas for her (and her team’s) valiant ef-

fort on the ad-design front. (A cocktail is, of course, owed to Art Director Kristin Brenemen who oversaw the entire design effort and Managing Editor Ronni Mott who always keeps the editorial trains running.)

One of the key elements of the Best of Jackson issue each year is the cover artwork, and our 10th Anniversary cover is particularly special: an original Tony Davenport painting. Evocative both of the past that we’ll celebrating in Jackson and, hopefully, a bright future, we salute Tony for his dazzling work and his willingness to let us display it.

Looking back over the 10 years, I’m struck by any number of observations. The JFP itself has been a long-fought battle to turn a cause—great journalism—into a strong local business, and we continue to work on that all the time, having just finished our best year ever in 2011. Working in this business, you realize that the economy is still very challenged, and that it’s tough to be a local business in today’s marketplace. That’s one reason why Best of Jackson can resonate so fully; it’s another opportunity for the really good people and businesses out there to garner some more richly deserved attention.

Another change in these 10 years: all of the great food and dining options that Jackson has to offer. We’ve had a rich landscape of new restaurants in the past few years, and that’s really something worth celebrating. Combined with some of the fabulous eateries and chefs who have been in the Best Of running for our first 10 years, it makes for an impressive line-up now that we’re a decade into this thing.

Something that hasn’t changed—just expanded—is the opportunity that Best of Jackson gives up to celebrate a thriving LOCAL scene when it comes to businesses in Jackson. In a town where Macaroni Grill and On the Border are sent packing, we’re left with something much better—options like BRAVO!, Babalu, Amerigo, Walker’s Drive-In, Parlor Market, Julep and many more. We’ve got fantastic restaurants with staying power, fabulous new offerings to up the ante and plenty of local flair that really make Jackson stand out.

I certainly encourage you to use this edition of the JFP as a guidebook for some of the great things (and people and places) that Jackson has to offer. Hold on to your copy, flip through it every so often and try something you haven’t tried before. Check out all the museums, garden spots, music venues, stores, boutiques and attractions around town (and the state) that are mentioned, particularly if you haven’t before.

This is a perfect guidebook, written by Jacksonians, for exploring this wonderful city, even if you’ve lived here a long time.

We’ve got great things in store as we celebrate our first full decade of publishing and this, our first official “10th anniversary” event, including some revamping of the old (think “electronic presence”) and some outright brand-new stuff in 2012. Hint: Bookmark www.bestofjackson.com for updates throughout the year ... and an opportunity to participate more than ever before in helping get out the word about all the great local stuff that Jackson has to offer.

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jacksonfreepress.com

news, culture & irreverence

Thursday, Jan. 19 Gov. Phil Bryant announces he will end the practice of Mississippi prisoners working at the governor’s mansion. ‌ After a White House review, more than 1,600 undocumented immigrants who were not considered threats to national security are allowed to remain in the U.S. Friday, Jan. 20 A fugitive turns himself in to WLBT’s Bert Case after a standoff and manhunt. ...

A member of the Tuskugee Airmen fighter pilot squadron is buried at Arlington National Cemetery on the same day a new film “Red Tails� about the airmen debuts nationwide.

Saturday, Jan. 21 Ole Miss tops Georgia 66-63 in basketball. ‌ Former U.S. House Speaker Newt Gingrich upsets former Mass. Gov. Mitt Romney to win the South Carolina Republican primary Sunday, Jan. 22 Severe weather rolls through Mississippi; at least one person is injured. ‌ Victories for the New York Giants over the San Francisco 49ers and the New England Patriots over the Baltimore Ravens sets Super Bowl XLVI, setting a rematch of the 2008 Super Bowl. ‌ Former Penn State football coach Joe Paterno dies.

Pardongate’s Fancy Lawyer Tricks

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K, we admit it. Some categories just never made it to the “official� ballot. Here are a few more categories, just for fun, because we just can’t get enough Best of Jackson.

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January 25 - 31, 2012

ments were not adequately authenticated.

Fortner also said Hood should be disqualified from the suit because an attorney from Hood’s office assigned to the Mississippi Department of Corrections advised Barbour’s office on how the pardons should be carried out.

Green ruled that Fortner’s motion to disqualify Hood was without merit, saying the attorney general has the “authority, responsibility, and obligation� to the people of Mississippi to make sure the state ConstiAttorney General Jim Hood’s office asked Hinds County tution is followed.

Circuit Judge Tomie Green for additional time to review A fifth former mansion last-minute motions filed by defense attorneys for inmate, Joseph Ozment, individuals former Gov. Haley Barbour pardoned. convicted of murder, conspiracy, and armed robworked at the governors mansion, did not bery in DeSoto County, did not appear at publish at all. the hearing.

Tom Fortner, a former Hinds County Wiggins said investigators haven’t public defender representing former gover- been able to find him and Hood told renor’s mansion workers (called trustys) Na- porters afterwards that his office couldn’t than Kern, Anthony McCray, David Gatlin, issue a criminal warrant to arrest Ozment. and Charles Hooker, repeatedly tried to have The hearing will continue Friday, Feb. 3 the case thrown out. He argued that the ex- at 1 p.m. in the Hinds County Courthouse. ecutive orders Barbour signed to grant clemRead full pardon coverage at barbour ency was tantamount to hearsay if the docu- watch.com. Comment at www.jfp.ms.

RL NAVE

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116 people failed to publish for the required 30 days and that another 40 perpetrators, including at least four trustys who

The Other Best of Jackson Ballot

Monday, Jan. 23 Hinds County Circuit Judge Tomie Green delays a hearing on the constitutionality of pardons that former Gov. Haley Barbour granted. ‌ A Washington state lawmaker announces she will support a gay marriage bill, clearing the way for it to become the seventh state to permit same-sex nuptials.

Tuesday, Jan. 24 “The Help,â€? filmed in Mississippi, is nominated for Oscar’s Best Picture. ‌ Mississippi Gov. Phil Bryant delivers his first State-of-the-State address. ‌ President Barack Obama delivers his third State-ofthe-Union address.

Get daily news at jfpdaily.com.

by R.L. Nave

FILE PHOTO

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uch like the Haley Barbour pardons that caused a firestorm in Mississippi and around the country, lawyers for many of those who received clemency deluged the Mississippi attorney general and a judge with last-minute motions days and hours before a Jan. 23 hearing on the constitutionality of the reprieves. “We have been served this morning with a lot of these motions, a lot of them here at the table that we haven’t had a chance to digest,� Special Assistant Attorney General Bridgette Wiggins said in a crowded Hinds County courtroom Monday.

Hinds County Circuit Court Judge Tomie Green’s visible agitation that attorneys did not file the motions properly—one lawyer emailed documents to Green’s court administrator—prompted her to repeatedly admonish both the plaintiffs and defendants. “I’m beginning to wonder if you all practiced in court before,� Green said.

Nevertheless, Green postponed the hearing until Feb. 3 to give the attorney general’s office an opportunity to respond to the slew of motions.

Attorney General Jim Hood is seeking to invalidate at least 182 pardons Barbour issued in his final days as governor, arguing that the former prisoners did not publish notices of their release that the state Constitution requires. Hood’s office found that

KENYA HUDSON

Wednesday, Jan. 18 In basketball, Ole Miss upsets No. 18 Mississippi State 75-68. ‌ Internet sites including Wikipedia and Reddit disabled their sites for 24 hours to protest a pair of congressional bills, the Stop Online Piracy Act and the Protect IP Act, both aimed at stopping the spread of copyrighted material on the Internet.

Although this is the 10th Jackson Free Press Best of Jackson issue, the paper won’t celebrate its 10th birthday until September 2012.

Beneta Burt wants your vote for the Ward 3 City Council seat. p9

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Best Thrill Ride Along a Bumpy Jackson Street Best Place to People Watch Without Looking Like a Creep Best Gubernatorial Pardon Joke Best Bus Driver Who Helps Handicapped Passengers Best PR Pitch That Failed but Made Us Laugh Best Guy to Know Who Will Jumpstart Your Car Best Jackson-related Facebook Status Update Best Tweeter in the Metro Area Best Hydrant in the City that Always Leaks Best House to Visit Unexpectedly for Dinner Best Public or Nearly Public Bathroom Best Places to Catch Politicians Misbehaving Best Open Marriage in Mississippi Best Green Patch in Highway Median Best Place to Piggyback Free WiFi Best-Kept Secret

by Elizabeth Waibel

AMILE WILSON

Charter Schools on the Way?

The Legislature will likely consider bills during this session aimed at creating more charter schools in Mississippi.

W

hile new legislation is just now beginning to roll out at the state capitol, education advocates and lawmakers are talking about potential bills to lower the requirements for traditional public schools to become charter schools.

Under a Mississippi law passed in 2010, schools must be rated low performing or lower for three consecutive years before they can be turned into charter schools. Then, at least half the parents at the school must petition the state Board of Education to create a charter school.

On Monday, Sen. Michael Watson, RPascagoula, introduced a bill to allow new charter schools to be formed, instead of only granting charters to failing schools.

Charter schools receive public funding, but have more leeway to try new teaching methods. Charter-school advocates say the more pliable structure allows for innovation that helps children learn.

Sen. Gray Tollison, R-Oxford, and chairman of the Senate Education Committee, said he hopes the Legislature will allow for more charter schools in the upcoming session.

“Sometimes kids, just like you and me, react differently to different environments,” he said. “… Let’s give it a try; we’ve never tried it.”

Mississippi lawmakers have the benefit

of looking at what other states have tried in crafting their own legislation, Tollison said.

One well-known group of charter schools is the Knowledge is Power Program, or KIPP, which has a school in West Helena, Ark., just across the border from the Mississippi Delta. Tollison hopes charter schools could get more Teach for America teachers who are interested in charter schools into Mississippi classrooms.

“These charter schools are still public schools, it’s just a different way—a 21stcentury way—of educating children,” he said. “We are still in a 19th-century way of educating children.”

Charter schools are a different delivery system to help students learn, he said.

“It’s just like delivering music. I used to listen to records and cassette tapes, and now I listen to iTunes,” Tollison said, adding that education evolves in a similar way.

“If somebody out there can do a better job educating kids, then let’s give it a try.”

Nationwide, charter schools’ results are mixed, with some performing much better than their traditional counterparts and some performing much worse.

While the Blueprint Mississippi 2011 report on the state’s economy gives a cautious recommendation to make use of charter schools in Mississippi, some are hesitant to completely endorse broader charter school legislation.

Oleta Fitzgerald, southern regional director for the Children’s Defense Fund, served on the educational achievement subcommittee for the Blueprint report.

“The recommendation of charter schools came at the tail end of the process, and it really was not thoroughly discussed by members of the education subcommittee,” she said. “So there is some reticence about that recommendation from some members of the subcommittee.”

Fitzgerald said that if the state does seek to create more charter schools, it must be careful that the system is fair to all children, and that the charter schools serve children who are currently in the publicschool system. She is concerned that charter schools, which operate under fewer state restrictions than traditional public schools, might institute policies that could make it easier to push out lower-performing students, or that they sap limited funding from other schools.

“While we recognize that charter schools are probably coming to Mississippi, we have to be very careful that the implementation of a charter school program does not negatively impact the ability of public schools to function,” she said. “…

(We must make sure) that resources are not pulled away from the public school system for a subset of children and you leave the rest of the system with even less funding.”

Comment at www.jfp.ms.

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educationtalk

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Legislature: Week 3

by R.L. Nave

Shut ‘Em Down FILE PHOTO

health), Cecil Brown (education), Bobby Moak (gaming), and Tommy Reynolds (elections and reapportionment) as examples of lawmakers with intimate knowledge of the legislative processes whose experience is being thrown away.

“For Steve Holland to not Mississippi Democratic Party Chairman Rickey Cole (shown) called be weighing in on Republican House Speaker Philip Gunn’s committee appointments public health is a “lipstick on a pig” for appearing bi-partisan but shutting out disservice to the veteran Democratic lawmakers. people of Mississippi,” Cole said.

Gunn told reporters after the announcen announcing his long-awaited commitment last week that he considered regionaltee appointments, House Speak Philip ism, tenure and party affiliation to assemble Gunn, R-Clinton, likened himself to a the “most capable team that will help the high-school football coach. state move forward.”

Unlike college coaches who can go out In the capital city area, Democratic and recruit players, Gunn said, he had to Reps.

Earle S. Banks of Jackson and Edward field the team he was given.

Blackmon of Canton received chair appointBut then critics quickly accused Gunn of benching some of the team’s star players. ments to the enrolled bills and municipaliNearly three weeks into the session, Gunn ties committees, respectively. In addition, finally picked the people who will choose the Rep. Rita Martinson, R-Madison, and John bills that members will consider.

L. Moore, R-Brandon, will head tourism Not surprisingly, most of the 41 avail- and education, respectively. able chairmanships went to Republicans.

Meanwhile, bills continued to roll out Gunn also picked 10 Democrats—about a of the Senate, many aimed at individuals on quarter of the picks—including eight Afri- public assistance. can Americans.

Hattiesburg Republican John A. Polk Statewide, Mississippi Democrats im- submitted a bill to require applicants for mediately called foul on Gunn’s selections, public-assistance benefits to submit to ransaying that a closer look at Gunn’s chairmen dom drug testing to qualify. and chairwomen reveals that experienced Republican Chris McDaniel of EllisDemocrats were excluded from major com- ville introduced a bill to require agencies admittees. ministering public benefits to verify whether “What we have here is the illusion of in- applicants legally reside in the U.S. Nancy clusion,” said Rickey Cole, the executive di- Collins, R-Tupelo, wants people applying rector of the Mississippi Democratic Party. for public assistance to participate in mandaHe cited former chairmen Johnny tory community-service programs.

Stringer (appropriations), Percy Watson The controversial pardons former Gov. (ways and means), Steve Holland (public Haley Barbour made before leaving office

Marketing

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Interested? Send an e-mail to: kimberly@jacksonfreepress.com, telling us why you want to intern with us and what makes you the ideal candidate.

January 25 - 31, 2012

*College credit available to currently enrolled college students in select disciplines.

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also remained on the minds of lawmakers.

State Sen. Michael Watson, RPascagoula, who chairs the Constitution Committee and introduced legislation barring convicted murderers from working in the governor’s mansion, said he is preparing a memo for Gov. Phil Bryant about how to deal with future pardons.

An audience member at a forum organized by the John C. Stennis Institute on Government also got in a question about the possibility that some form of Personhood legislation emerging in his committee. Watson demurred.

“In time that may happen,” the Senator said of a Personhood bill.

“We’re not sure how quickly.”

Comment at www.jfp.ms.

"ILLS OF .OTE 4HIS 7EEK SB 2178: Requires compulsory school

attendance for all kindergarten-age children SB 2183: No promotion or graduation if student has accumulated 21 or more absences in preceding school year SB 2192: Enact the Mississippi AntiDiscrimination in Employment Act SB 2198: Increase per diem of election commissioners on election days SB 2211: Require probable cause hearing before issuance of an arrest warrant SB 2219: Provide for immediate restoration of suffrage rights upon completion of sentence and other conditions SB 2226: Prohibit state agencies from using public funds for procedures that result in destruction or injury of human embryos SB 2234: Enact the Mississippi Student Religious Liberties Act of 2012 SB 2242: Authorize open-enrollment and conversion public charter schools in the state

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by Valerie Wells

Beneta Burt: Proof in Experience

How do you do that?

The Mississippi Roadmap to Health Equity is an example.

It really started with us saying: “Let’s be proactive about our own health. We want to

florists we have in the community.

Crime—it’s so generic. It’s like: How do you help with dilapidated houses? You have to look at who is committing these crimes, at what times. Before we solve it, we need to understand it. We really need to know what we are talking about.

Clearly, we want to work with the community and the Jackson Police Department on how we resolve issues. Clearly, it’s an opportunity for young people to participate.

Beneta Burt, the executive director of the Jackson Roadmap to Health Equity Project, is running for the Ward 3 City Council seat vacated by Kenneth Stokes.

ing for food-service workers in schools. We have a farmers’ market with prices lower so the community can afford it. These are real indications and proof of what we can do in the ward. There is proof—$5 million (in grants that Roadmap brought into Ward 3).

We spent it in schools, on senior citizens, on young people and a recycling project for noncollege-bound students.

What can you do about crime?

One thing is to find something for young people to do. Have them plant and cut flowers. Teach them that. Look at all the

You are on the Jackson Redevelopment Authority board. How would that affect being on the Council?

The city and the JRA both have to make decisions based on thoughtful considerations. As a Ward 3 councilperson, I’d be working together with the council.

Compromise does not mean that you lose. It means you work together for the common good.

What do you believe should be a budget priority? Is it infrastructure?

It should be services that the city provides residents. Keep residents healthy and safe and contributing to the economic development of the city so people want to visit, work and invest in it.

Our water system—that’s a structural problem and one that just didn’t happen yesterday. You can look internally for funds or externally through various grants. A grant writer should be writing grants all the time, not just for infrastructure but for community organizations.

I know it can happen. Churches are

opening doors to more than just services. They can learn how to write grants for their organizations. When you bring people together and allow them to do it together, the potential is just so wonderful there.

Let’s get positioned to help ourselves, and let’s get the government to help also.

The Council reviews the spending docket. Are you looking forward to that?

I’d like to be thoughtful. The work includes the responsibility of a council member. That’s my way of ensuring I’m doing due diligence.

What needs to be done about economic development in your ward?

We have new re-investments in Ward 3.

The Medical Mall corridor will bring more jobs and opportunities. The Medical Mall is the economic-development engine right here in the heart of Ward 3. The Medical Mall is looking at Housing and Urban Development block (grant) money that comes specifically for the revitalization. We should offer pre-employment training how to get and keep a job.

The City Council has a responsibility to make sure these things happen.

How do you reach residents?

Neighborhood associations. I was at a Georgetown Neighborhood Association meeting, and they are taking their neighborhoods back, street by street. They have a person on each block to identify broken windows or an abandoned home. This is proactively handling things. I already have relationships. I can find resources.

If neighbors help neighbors, collectively we could get together on a Saturday, cut the grass or whatever. Then we start feeling good in what we’ve done, and we can take pride.

Comment at www.jfp.ms. See jfppolitics. com for interviews with other Ward 3 candidates as we do them. We urge any candidate for this seat to reach out to Valerie Wells at 601-3626121 ext. 21 to schedule your interview.

jacksonfreepress.com

Why are you running?

Ward 3 needs to be able to get the resources it needs. We are not taking about rocket-science stuff. The entire ward, from north to south, east to west, needs to have everyone engaged.

You do that with leadership.

One of the things we have to do is to be sure there is community inclusion. We can’t exercise politics of divisiveness. It is time for a fresh start in Ward 3. After 23 years, we have an opportunity for Ward 3 to reap the benefits of other wards in the city. It can be a ward where kids are optimistic about opportunities offered them, where residents have access to good health, job opportunities and are contributing to the quality of life in the city.

improve the health of the community.”

With a grant from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, we provide free fitness trainCOURTESY BENETA BURT

B

eneta Burt stays so busy as executive director of the Jackson Roadmap to Health Equity Project that she didn’t think she would have time to run for City Council. After several phone calls from supporters in Ward 3, however, she considered it seriously.

“Everybody ought to serve,” she said. “I know I have passion, leadership skills and experience to do it. We need good leadership.”

Her experience includes working for Gov. Ray Mabus in job-training programs.

She also worked for the city of Jackson as deputy director of human and cultural services, so she is familiar with City Hall operations.

The former president of the Jackson Urban League grew up in Oxford and graduated from Jackson State University in 1971. Later, she got a master’s of public policy and administration in 1979.

Burt faces seven other candidates who also want to fill the Ward 3 seat that Kenneth Stokes left vacant when he won his Hinds County supervisor seat. The special election is Feb. 14.

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January 25 - 31, 2012

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GOOGLE

L ACE Y ’S

here was a time when Google represented that feeling you got watching Jonny Lee Miller and Angelina Jolie do battle with The Man in “Hackers� or Ryan Phillippe go toe-totoe with Tim Robbins’ corporate tech mogul in “Antitrust.�

Google symbolized freedom and individuality on the Internet, an alternative to Yahoo and Microsoft. Microsoft had long been the “evil empire,� too large to be any good and becoming creatively stagnant.

Yahoo, once the cool, quirky kid on the block, was becoming another AOL—cluttered with media content, an annoyingly bright interface and subpar services.

In contrast, Google was clean, crisp and anti-establishment. It gave you really good search results, and its email service was where all the cool kids were heading. It provided lots of storage for free and by invite-only, and it was “beta,� after all, which meant you were living on the edge by testing this new system.

Google didn’t stop there. It took RSS syndication mainstream with the introduction of Google Reader. It brought word processing and spreadsheets to the web, and eventually it launched its own awesome browser.

Of course, nothing is truly free. You can’t run a technology company, pay genius programmers and continue to grow without a revenue stream. Even with private infusions of investor capital, “free� does not translate into financial solvency.

The trade-off for great free products is a few ads. And the great thing about these ads is that Google customizes them to you.

It’s simple: “Robots� scan your email, documents, and RSS feeds for keywords and patterns. Then, it serves up the ads. “Wait. What? You mean Google reads my email?�

I remember when that realization really started to sink in for users. People started paying more attention to the ads next to the email they were reading, and the similarities were eerie. It was like Google was

No human is reading your information. Computers do it all. And while people monitor these computers, it’s not like some evil henchman is sitting in front of a monitor watching the computer scan millions of bytes of data.

Besides, the ads are designed not only to help Google’s advertisers but to also help its users—you and me. Google wants to serve us ads that are relevant to us. That’s noble, right?

Here’s the Google Conundrum: Users are not Google’s customers. We are the product. Advertisers are Google’s customers, and advertisers are paying for us. So, do you continue to use Google, knowing you are simply a product, or do you cut the cord and seek the freedom Google once touted?

Consider that the only way Google continues to increase their revenue is to offer two things to their customers: 1. More users and

!PP ,OVE

,

2. Better information about those users.

Gaining more users is why Google has tried so hard to break into the socialmedia world. It failed with Google Buzz and Google Wave, but it looks like the company finally has a hit with Google Plus. Clearly, building a strong social-media platform means more users.

The other thing social media offers is more information about those users. Google already has loads of content from email, documents, RSS feeds, browser history and even phone numbers and transcribed voicemail with Google Voice. Now, the company is seeking more social avenues: likes and dislikes, connections between users, professional history, alternative email addresses, more phone numbers, high-school addresses, colleges. It’s a data goldmine, and Google wants it. It wants you—and me.

In all fairness, Google is a key part of my workflow. It powers two email domains for me. Without Google Reader, my online reading habits would take a huge hit.

And while I want to like Bing (gasp!), it’s nowhere near as good as Google.

But my faith in Google to not be evil erodes every day. I understand the tradeoff for free, even free products as good as what Google offers. But because I do understand that trade-off, it makes me weary of continuing to accept it.

Bonus: If you haven’t watched Jonny Lee Miller and Angelina Jolie in “Hackers� (1995) or Ryan Phillippe and Tim Robbins in “Antitrust� (2001), head to Netflix and do so now.

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jacksonfreepress.com

607 Fondren Place | Jackson, MS www.fondrenguitars.com | 601.362.0313

11

jfp op/ed

opining, grousing & pontificating

EDITORIAL

Celebrate the Best, Fix the Rest

I

n our recent special GOOD Ideas issue on crime (see www.jfp.ms/crime), the Jackson Free Press presented many research-based ideas on decreasing crime in our community. The best advice might seem the most counterintuitive at first glance: Stop complaining about crime (or anything else) and acting like it’s out of control. A community’s perception of itself and its problems, according to crime and social-science experts, is a key component in whether it is likely to become a better place to live and raise kids or a worse one.

Of course, we live in a state where residents have long talked down ourselves, our city and our state. No doubt due to our tough and divisive past, many young Mississippians, and Jacksonians, have bided their time until they could get out and never return—except maybe for Thanksgiving and Christmas. The cycle hasn’t been helped much, and probably hurt, by corporate media that have set up shop in Mississippi over the years and fanned sensationalistic flames of negativity that increase the state’s “brain drain” of many of our smartest young people.

When the JFP launched in 2002, we immediately took a different tactic about the state and the city—even running the metro’s first “Best of Jackson” ballot in our first issue. We came out of the gate proving our mission: to help our readers see what is already wonderful about where we live and help provide vital information about what needs repairing. That is, we celebrate the “best” of our area in every single issue, while never sugarcoating the problems. Sadly, many media don’t bother to do either one.

In addition, we provide possible solutions whenever we can, from this editorial space to the quarterly GOOD Ideas issues to little info boxes under our articles and on our website (notice how many of these have popped up lately, thanks to reporters R.L. Nave and Elizabeth Waibel?). That is, we don’t just want to complain about problems; we want to fix them.

Meantime, we have been blessed to both assist and chronicle this city’s efforts to re-imagine itself into greatness, real and perceived. Jackson is a very different city than it was a decade ago when we released the first Best of Jackson results.

She’s more confident and less defensive against naysayers; she’s also been through some bad times resulting from ill-informed decisions (can we say Frank Melton and Two Lakes?). But as a city, we seem to be learning from our mistakes and getting a bit less gullible when people promise us more than they can deliver.

We need to stay this course, Jackson. We need to continue the “locavore” movement that supports locally owned businesses over mega-chains, thus keeping more tax dollars in the local economy. The bad economy has been tough, but many fine businesses have weathered it by staying focused on quality and staying positive. (Our goals over here at the JFP.) The JFP applauds every person, business and organization that is making the capital city into a very special place. The world is starting to take notice.

M

LETTERS

y name is Howard Klerk, and I am the president of the National Board of Trustees of The National Organization of Parents of Murdered Children Inc. based in Cincinnati, Ohio. I am a homicide survivor, and I represent more than 100,000 homicide survivors in the United States and Canada. We are a support group for homicide survivors by homicide survivors.

We wish to express our outrage over the recent pardons and release of a number of convicted murderers by former Gov. Haley Barbour. We find this to be an absolute outrage and an act causing additional pain and anguish to people whose life has already been torn apart by the murders of their loved ones by these vicious criminals.

Mr. Barbour states that these murders were

“crimes of passion.” There is no passion in committing a murder. Murder is an act of violence, rage, hate and evil committed by sociopaths and batterers. Batterers are rarely rehabilitated; sociopaths cannot be rehabilitated. What makes anyone think that these released criminals will not strike again? The only willing participant in a murder is the murderer and any accomplices.

We applaud the efforts of the attorney general in attempting block the release of these murderers.

We hope the effort is successful and these criminals are not released into society where they clearly do not belong and where they would be free to take other innocent lives.

Howard S. Klerk Jr. President, POMC National Board of Trustees

KEN STIGGERS

Chill With the ‘Peoples’

B

January 25 - 31, 2012

ig Roscoe: “As the first month of 2012 ends, Lil’ Momma Roscoe, the Clubb Chicken Wing staff and I are getting ready for the blitz of February holiday observances, such as National Freedom Day, Groundhog Day, Valentine’s Day, Presidents’ Day, Fat Tuesday (Mardi Gras), Leap Day and Black History Month. Also, the Clubb Chicken Wing Multi-Purpose Complex has scheduled plenty of fun, entertaining and educational events for members of the Ghetto Science Community like the Super Bowl Viewing Party and Disco, Congressman Smokey ‘Robinson’ McBride’s Black History Month Job Fair and Chief Crazy Brother’s theatrical tribute to Carter G. Woodson, W.E.B. DuBois and Booker T. Washington.

“Lil’ Momma Roscoe suggested that Clubb Chicken Wing help the unemployed deejays earn a little cash this year by hiring them to work part time playing old-school music during the daily Hot Wing Happy Hour. Therefore, the unemployed deejays now will be called the underemployed, part-time deejays. And Lil’ Momma Roscoe will premiere new flavored ‘Aww Sookie Sookie’ Teriyaki-sauce chicken wings.

“Brother Hustle will host a monthly Compensatory Investment Request discussion and support group every second Thursday evening. And on leap day, Lady Fancy McBride, the Sausage Sandwich Sisters and the Dream Sisters Community Choir will perform a woman’s black history tribute to Les Chanteuse African (aka The African Female Singers) “So, let 2012 be your year to chill with the ‘peoples’ at Clubb Chicken 12 Wing, where the party is jumpin,’ and the grease is poppin’.”

CHATTER

Join the conversation at www.jfp.ms.

“Obviously, Haley Barbour will not and cannot hold elective office again. Nor should he. As far as I am concerned, he is no longer a Mississippian. If he had pretensions of become appointed to a Cabinet position, I think it could only come at a recess appointment and at great cost to whatever Republican Kool-Aid drinker has decided to honor him for his service to the party. Whatever credibility he earned in two terms as governor, he just flushed down the toilet with these pardons. He cannot get it back. This will not be forgotten. He is done. He is now and forever just another self-serving lobbyist.”

—gwilly “Because you have the RIGHT to do something does not mean that it is RIGHT to do it. Barbour says that he and his wife, Marsha, are ‘evangelical Christians-Presbyterians.’ He also said that Christianity teaches forgiveness and second chances.

“I wonder where these ‘Christian’ principles were when he decided that there would be no forgiveness or second chance for the Scott sisters. Christianity also teaches us not to lie. The Scott sisters have stated that they are innocent of the charges waged against them.

To admit to guilt would be a lie. Even if we are to believe that the Scott sisters, who were charged as teens, were guilty, they paid a hell of a price. If they had not been black teens and had access to reasonable representation, their hands would have been slapped and they would not have spent one day in prison.

“Mrs. (Karen) Irby was given a sweetheart deal.

She claims to be innocent of causing the crash that killed two physicians. According to testimony, it was Mr. Irby who caused her to have the “accident.” ...

“Could money, race, social status and class have anything to do with this decision? Just asking.”

— justjess

Email letters to letters@jacksonfreepress.com, fax to 601-510-9019 or mail to P.O. Box 5067, Jackson, Miss., 39296.

Include daytime phone number. Letters may be edited for length and clarity, as well as factchecked.

The Gold Standard Editor-in-Chief Donna Ladd Publisher Todd Stauffer

EDITORIAL Managing Editor Ronni Mott Assistant Editor Valerie Wells Reporters R.L. Nave, Elizabeth Waibel Events Editor Latasha Willis Deputy Editor Briana Robinson Copy Editor Dustin Cardon Editorial Assistant LaShanda Phillips Music Listings Editor Natalie Long Fashion Stylist Meredith Sullivan Writers Torsheta Bowen, Quita Bride, Marika Cackett, Scott Dennis, Bryan Flynn, Brandi Herrera, Diandra Hosey, Pamela Hosey, Robyn Jackson, Garrad Lee, Natalie Long, Larry Morrisey, Robin Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Bryant, Eddie Outlaw, Julie Skipper, Ken Stiggers, Rebecca Wright Editorial Interns Tam Curley, Brittany Kilgore, Sadaaf Mamoon, Whitney Menogan, Dylan Watson Consulting Editor JoAnne Prichard Morris

ART AND PHOTOGRAPHY Art Director Kristin Brenemen Advertising Designer Andrea Thomas Production Designer Latasha Willis Graphic Designer Holly Harlan Graphic Design Interns Eric Bennett, Erica Sutton Editorial Cartoonist Mike Day Photographers William Patrick Butler, Christina Cannon,Tate K. Nations, Virginia Schreiber, Jerrick Smith, Amile Wilson

SALES AND OPERATIONS Sales Director Kimberly Griffin Account Executives Amanda Beach, Adam Perry Sales Assistant Marissa Lucas Distribution Manager Matt Heindl Events Coordinator Shannon Barbour Bookkeeper Montroe Headd Distribution Avery Cahee, Raymond Carmeans, Jeff Cooper, Mik Davis, Clint Dear, Richard Laswell Sales Interns Morgan Bares, Samantha Towers

ONLINE Web Editor Dustin Cardon Web Developer Matt Heindl Web Producer Korey Harrion

CONTACT US: Letters letters@jacksonfreepress.com Editorial editor@jacksonfreepress.com Releases releases@jacksonfreepress.com Queries editor@jacksonfreepress.com Listings events@jacksonfreepress.com Advertising ads@jacksonfreepress.com Publisher todd@jacksonfreepress.com News tips news@jacksonfreepress.com Internships interns@jacksonfreepress.com Fashion style@jacksonfreepress.com

Jackson Free Press P.O. Box 5067, Jackson, Miss., 39296 Editorial (601) 362-6121 Sales (601) 362-6121 Fax (601) 510-9019 Daily updates at jacksonfreepress.com The Jackson Free Press is the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s award-winning, locally owned newsweekly, with 17,000 copies distributed in and around the Jackson metropolitan area every Wednesday. The Jackson Free Press is free for pick-up by readers; one copy per person, please. Firstclass subscriptions are available for $100 per year for postage and handling.

The Jackson Free Press welcomes thoughtful opinions. The views expressed in this newspaper are not necessarily those of the publisher or management of Jackson Free Press Inc. Š Copyright 2012 Jackson Free Press Inc. All Rights Reserved

"TTPDJBUJPO PG "MUFSOBUJWF /FXTXFFLMJFT

I

left Jackson in 2008 and knew Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d miss it. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d miss the people, the music, the arts scene, the Crossroads Film Festival, the parades, Hal & Malâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;sâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;all of that. But fortune sent me west to settle near San Diego, in what the natives call the South Bay, a multicultural swath between the big city and Tijuana, Mexico. For all of its dynamism, its culture and its multifaceted personality, this whole areaâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;in fact, much of San Diegoâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; leaves me thinking about some of the best things in Jackson that I miss most.

I have woken up in the middle of the night craving a burger. Not just any burger, but a huge Stamps turkey burger. I havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t eaten beef in over a decade, but I love a good turkey burger.

For my money, thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the best there is, particularly if you include the sweet potato fries.

Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m told that Stamps is now Cool Alâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know if itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the same, but I do know that it would be the first or second place Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d eat if I came back.

Here, just north of Mexico, tamales are as common as tacos and served by the dozen. Theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re traditional: pork or chicken wrapped in masa and served in cornhusksâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;boring. I want tamales served up Mississippi-style, smaller and spicier and crafted from cornmeal and Delta blues. I want it served up with pico de gallo, sour cream and sweet-corn sauce. I want tamales from Walkerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Drive-In. I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t care what else I get there; itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all wonderful. But I want tamales with it.

Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve had a lot of good food in a lot of good restaurants on the West Coast between Rosarito, Mexico, and Vancouver, British Columbia. Just like every other place, many of the restaurants are all about the hype, not the food.

When Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m trying something new, I sometimes think back to Julep, the standard from which I measure. The honey-rosemary fried chicken, the fried green tomatoes Napoleon, the shrimp and gritsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;all of these are the best, and I havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t found better versions anywhere.

I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t only eat out when I lived in Jackson. I actually shopped for groceries and cooked. Way back when, I could get everything I needed at the Jitney Jungle 14 on Fortification. But as my tastes broadened and expanded, so did the Jitney, becoming a local McDadeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Market. Living in Belhaven, I spent a lot of time at that McDadeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. If you think thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not a big deal, let me assure you: It is.

Here in the suburbs of San Diego, grocery shopping is an all-day venture. Supermarkets yank inventory and replace stock on

a weekly basis. None of the stores do any of their own ordering; they do it all from corporate headquarters.

And none of them seem to actually care what they carry. I go to Vonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s for dairy and most meat, to the Imperial Beach farmerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s market for fresh produce, Trader Joeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s for specialty items, Albertsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s for cheese and ground turkey, Walmart for all sorts of things, and Henryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s for odds and ends that no one else sells. We have a local grocery here in Imperial Beach, Wallyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, where I shop every chance I get. They just donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t carry much that I wantâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;except for a smashing selection of wines.

Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d give anything for a McDadeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s where I could buy all of my groceries and not spend the rest of the day looking elsewhere.

The other thing Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d give anything for is a great daily newspaper.

Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re missing one of those, too. We have the San Diego UnionTribune, the U-T. It is just slightly less honest and a touch more politically biased than The Clarion-Ledger, but thankfully the writing inside it is of a marginally lesser quality to balance out the increased bias.

The U-T has been almost violently anti-union, stridently anti-gay and transparently pro-big business. Supposedly theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going to moderate that, but the new owner is a local right-wing gay-basher, Doug Manchester.

Like Jackson, though, we have a great alternative press scene. San Diego has CityBeat, Reader, and numerous English, Spanish, and Tagalog newspapers. As might be expected, some of the writers are good and some not so much. What we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have is a consistent, regular series of voices, working together to inform, enlighten and uncover. I miss that.

I once spoke with a CityBeat writer, Kinsee Morlan. When I told her Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d lived in Jackson, she asked whether I knew Donna Ladd or the Jackson Free Press. I said I did.

She said she had met Ms. Ladd, learned from her and thought the world of what the JFP was doing.

I had to agree. Like McDadeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and Walkerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and Julepâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fried green tomatoes Napoleon, this newspaper is not only the Best of Jackson: Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the gold standard here on the West Coast, too.

Nickolas Furr lives in Imperial Beach, California. He is a freelance writer, Democratic activist, and non-traditional college student. He is usually the oldest guy in every class.

I want tamales served up Mississippi-style, smaller and spicier and crafted from cornmeal and Delta blues.

Revealing Heaven On Earth 8:30 a.m.

A Service of Word and Table 9:30 a.m.

Sunday School for all ages 11:00 a.m.

Worship Service Live Streaming at www.gallowayumc.org Televised on WAPT Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Church Ages 4-Kindegarten Nursery Available Ages 6 weeks-3 years

305 North Congress Street Jackson, MS 601-353-9691 English 601-362-3464 Spanish www.gallowayumc.org

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jacksonfreepress.com

NICKOLAS FURR

13

You are holding the 10th edition of the annual Best of Jackson readerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s choice awards.

Every fall for a decade now, the Jackson Free Press has asked readers to vote for your favorite local businesses, people, institutions and organizations. Thank you to all who took time to fill out the long ballot to help point this positive spotlight where it needs to shine. Note that we will honor Best

Best Arts Organization: Mississippi Museum of Art

COURTESY JEFF GOOD

January 25 - 31, 2012

14

Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a reason so few floppy-eared bunnies are named Kamikaze. Brad â&#x20AC;&#x153;Kamikazeâ&#x20AC;? Franklin is that reason. A professed Jacksonian and, as he likes to stylize it, â&#x20AC;&#x153;FIGHTER!â&#x20AC;? (he includes husband, father, artist and businessman on his list of titles as well), Franklin credits his late mother for teaching him to be outspoken and hardheaded. Evidence of both traits is apparent either by reading the columns he pens in the JFPâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pages or by surveying his community involvement and business ventures, which have included operating Dreamz JXN nightclub and working as entertainment director for Watkins Partners.

In his debut column for 2012, Franklin showed readers his softer, fuzzier side as he reflected on life as a dad of four. Could Kaz be losing his edge? Likely not. He writes: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Maturity is becoming aware and proud of who you are and embracing it; others be damned.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x201D;R.L. Nave Second: Kenneth Stokes / Third: Jeff Good / Good Showing: Malcolm White; Knol Aust; Craig Noone

Mangia Bene, 3317 N. State St. 601-982-4443

catering company and three popular Jackson eateries: Bravo! Italian Restaurant & Bar, Broad Street Baking Co. and Cafe, and Sal & Mookieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s New York Pizza & Ice Cream Joint.

Although each restaurant has a distinct identity with its own menu choices, they have in common high-quality food, comfortable atmosphere, and friendly and knowledgeable staff.

Not only does Good give his time to better the community, Good gives of his and him companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s resources at events like the annual Sal & Mookieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Street festival that raises money for the Blair E. Batson Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hospital.

Good graduated from Murrah High School in 1981 and Millsaps College in 1986. He has been married for more than 20 years to Debbie and is father to twin teen daughters, Carly and Alex. â&#x20AC;&#x201D;ShaWandaJacome Second: Whitney Giordano, Material Girls (Renaissance at Colony Park, 1000 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite 7005, Ridgeland, 601-605-1605; 182 Promenade Blvd., Flowood, 601-992-4553) / Third: Stephanie Barnes, Bit By Bit Equine Therapy (P O Box 685, Madison, 769-798-8412) / Good Showing: Craig Noone, Parlor Market (115 W. Capitol St., 601-360-0090); Chad Seabrook, Seabrook Insurance (6955 Old Canton Road, Suite A, Ridgeland, 601-487-8022); Michael Donovan, Platoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Closet (1260 E. County Line Road, Ridgeland, 601-487-8207)

COURTESY BRAD FRANKLIN

Second: Mississippi Arts Commission (501 N. West St., Suite 1101-A, 601-3596030) / Third: Craftsmenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Guild of Mississippi (950 Rice Road, Ridgeland, 601856-7546) / Good Showing: Greater Jackson Arts Council (255 E. Pascagoula St., 601-960-1557); New Stage Theatre (1100 Carlisle St., 601-948-3531); Ballet Mississippi (201 E. Pascagoula St., Suite 106, 601-960-1560); Mississippi Symphony Orchestra (201 E. Pascagoula St., Suite 104, 601-960-1565); Ballet Magnificat!

(5406 Interstate 55 N., 601-977-1001)

JULIAN RANKIN

As a child, I loved exploring the Mississippi Museum of Art at its former location on visits to Jackson with my mom.

As an adult, I am continually impressed with the extensive permanent collection and world-class visiting exhibitions the museum brings to our state. The new facility, completed in 2007, provides a beautiful home for the collection while offering plenty of space for community meetings and events. The addition of the Art Garden provides a public space that Director Betsy Bradley likens to the â&#x20AC;&#x153;front porch of downtown.â&#x20AC;? With a range of regular educational and community programming, the museum continues to be a home for cultivating creative innovation. â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Julie Skipper

On Jan. 2, Jeff Good posted this on Facebook: â&#x20AC;&#x153;One of my lead managers at Broad Street Bakery & Cafe wants to start the new year with a change. ... a new career ... and I would like to help him live into this best life. â&#x20AC;Ś We ALL deserve to do something that moves us ... and makes us feel whole.â&#x20AC;? Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a testament to the type of person Jeff Good is and why he has taken the title of Best Business Owner yet again.

Good, a Salt Lake City, Utah, native, is the co-owner of the Mangia Bene franchise with friend Dan Blumenthal. The company, whose name means â&#x20AC;&#x153;eat wellâ&#x20AC;? in Italian, includes a

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Best Community Activist/Hell-Raiser: Brad Franklin

380 S. Lamar St., 601-960-1515, msmuseumart.org

Best Business Owner: Jeff Good

of Jackson winners and finalists this Sunday, Jan. 29. If you or your organization is a finalist and you have not received an invitation, please email marissa@jacksonfreepress.com to get on the guest list.

Best Community Garden/Nature Attraction: Art Garden at the Mississippi Museum of Art

Best Local Filmmaker: Robby Piantanida

Like a clearing in a forest, the Art Garden at the Mississippi Museum of Art opens its green space for downtown workers, residents and visitors to relax and ponder. Several Egyptian-looking columns etched with Mississippi themes open to still developing rooms that will have trees for walls. Nearby, boat sculptures atop tall poles spin slowly with a gust of wind like mature pinwheels. Water gently shoots from the center of mosaic lilies in tiled play ponds for children and the young at heart. The lunchtime crowd can eat outside, and they can come back on some evenings for outdoor concerts or film screenings.

—Valerie Wells

Robby Piantanida’s motion and static visual work has resonated with this year’s voters, moving him up a notch to first place. A 2009 visual arts graduate of Belhaven University, the Tyler, Texas, native today finds his home in Borrowed Productions, located in the Millsaps Arts District. Piantanida’s comfort behind the camera has resulted in numerous short films, commercials and music videos, along with a feature film, “The Sound of a Dirt Road.” —Brett Benson

TATE K NATIONS

380 S. Lamar St., 601-960-1515, msmuseumart.org

903-312-0119, borrowedproductions.com

Best High School Band: Murrah High School

Best Curmudgeon: Bert Case

1400 Murrah Drive, 601-969-6602, murrah.jpsms.org

715 S. Jefferson St., 601-948-3333, wlbt.com

From its colors to its strong, boisterous sound, the Murrah High School Band makes a sure impression. Under the direction of Brian Jefferson, they are named best high school band in the Jackson metro area. Just call them the “Sound of Perfection.” The band has nearly 200 members and, like the Jackson State Sonic Boom of the South, can get you “up out of your seat.” To put together a high school band that large and with that much talent takes more than the students. It is the students’ dedication, parental support and school faculty who make the band a success. Some of the band members have participated in Jackson Public School’s All-City Honor Band. From superior ratings to the Best of Jackson, Murrah High School Band has something to boast about.

—Tam Curley Second: Madison Central High School (1417 Highland Colony Parkway, Madison, 601-8567121) / Third: Ridgeland High School (586 Sunnybrook Road, Ridgeland, 601-898-5023) / Good Showing: Jim Hill High School (2185 Coach Fred Harris St., 601-960-5334); Northwest Rankin High School (5805 Highway 25, Flowood, 601-992-2242); Pearl High School (500 Pirate Cove, Pearl, 601-932-7931)

COURTESY MURRAH HIGH SCHOOL BAND

Second: Chris Jones / Third: Kenneth Stokes / Good Showing: Vince Falconi; Ian Williams

COURTESY BERT CASE

From Charles Schultz’s Peanuts saying, “I love mankind. It’s people I can’t stand,” to Raymond Chandler declaring, “It is not a fragrant world,” curmudgeons share their viewpoint on the world. Sharing his view is where this year’s No. 1 curmudgeon, broadcaster Bert Case, excels.

Starting in radio at Ole Miss after graduating from Murrah High in 1957, he entered the local news scene in 1965. While viewers today think of him in the WLBT anchor chair, sharing his travels down the Pearl River or posing questions to an irate Gov. Fordice threatening to “whip his ass,” Case sees his work during Hurricane Camille and the resulting Weather Service documentary as the most significant story of his career. He has been with WLBT since 1974.

—Brett Benson

ARRON PHILLIPS

Second: Amile Wilson / Third: Anita ModakTruran / Good Showing: Jim Dollarhide; Edward Saint Pé; Tate Taylor

Second Place: Mynelle Gardens (4736 Clinton Blvd., 601-960-1894 ) / Third Place (tie): Mississippi Museum of Natural Science (2148 Riverside Drive, 601-354-7303); LeFleur’s Bluff State Park (2140 Riverside Drive, 601-987-3923) / Good Showing: Clinton Community Nature Center (617 Dunton Road, Clinton, 601-926-1104)

Best Jewelry Designer: Betsy Liles (B. Fine Art Jewelry)

CAMILLE MOENKHAUS

Second: Lil McKinnon-Hicks, LilMcKH Jewelry (200 Commerce St., 601-259-6461) / Third: Alex and Lele (alexandlele.com) / Good Showing: Liz Henry (lizhenryjewels.com); Whitney Giordano, Pear by Material Girls (182 Promenade Blvd., Flowood, 601-992-4533)

Best Jackson Dancer: Nicole Marquez youcantstopthisdancer.com

Multi-talented Nicole Marquez is no quitter. After a fall from her Harlem apartment’s roof that led to a broken back, neck, pelvis, ribs and punctured lung, she made the decision to not give up and keep fighting against the odds.

The full-spirited dancer is back on her toes, choreographing for dance companies, plays and more. In March 2010, she embarked upon her first big project, “An Evening of Hope.” The event was a fundraiser for the Ask for More Art initiative that promotes the arts in schools.

As of October 2010, Marquez is a certified yoga instructor and currently teaches “Yoga Meets Dance” at the YMCA in Flowood. Marquez is also a highly sought after motivational speaker who tells audiences about her success story and spreads her message of hope.

—LaShanda Phillips Second: Kathy Thibodeaux, Ballet Magnificat! (5406 Interstate 55 N., 601-977-1001 ) / Third: Tracie James-Wade, LaMorne’s Dance (123A Highway 80 E., Suite 274, Clinton) / Good Showing: Sujan Ghimire, Salsa Mississippi (605 Duling Ave., 601-213-6355); Michael Day, Dance Connection Ballroom Dance Center (306 N. Bierdeman Road, Pearl, 601-932-2374)

COURTESY BRICE MEDIA

The ladies at B. Fine Art Jewelry specialize in creating unique pieces of wearable art for each customer. Betsy Liles, owner of the shop, has been working with Cylena Knowles since 2009 and Anne Brunson since 2006, and the studio has been open for business for six years in Ridgeland.

The shop carries an array of items from different artisans and artists from around the state. Artists currently featured include Jane Chauvin, Alan Kolodny and Cecile L. Bartlett.

B. Fine Art Jewelry also carries women’s apparel and accessories such as purses, scarves and belts. If you want one-of-a-kind custom jewelry, visit B. Liles, whether it is for casual wear, a party or a wedding. In fact, B. Liles creates custom wedding bands, engagement rings and cufflinks.

—Briana Robinson

jacksonfreepress.com

215 W. Jackson St., Ridgeland, 601-607-7741, blilesstudio.com

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Happy New Year!

Courthouse Racquet & Fitness is celebrating our 34th Year of Providing Fitness to Mississippi!

All Memberships $34 To Join No Dues Until March 2012 Offer Expires January 31, 2012 Some restrictions apply. See store for details.

FIND US ON

January 25 - 31, 2012

FACEBOOK

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facebook.com/courthouse

To join or find out more information, please call 601-932-4800 or visit www.mscourthouse.com BYRAM 5843 Byram Parkway 601-372-2229

LAKELAND 2625 Courthouse Circle 601-932-4800

NORTHEAST 46 Northtown Drive 601-956-1300

CYPRESS LAKE 300 Lake Circle 601-856-8853

MADISON 1022 Highway 51 N 601-898-7849

DOWNTOWN JACKSON 100 East Capitol, Suite 107 601-948-8688

Best Local Professor: Jean Powers (Holmes Community College)

Best Place to Book a Party or Shower: The South Warehouse

Holmes Community College’s Jean Powers has been teaching for more than 25 years. Though she has previously worked as a professor of business at both Hinds Community College and Belhaven University, she finds her current position at Holmes to be the most rewarding.

Powers has taught speech and communications for more than 13 years, and this is her third consecutive win for Best Professor. Students admire Powers’ upbeat attitude and fun classroom presence. She works to bring sunlight and laughter to a subject that is traditionally met with apprehension. Powers encourages her students to trust themselves and to share her positive outlook. She is also a part-time yoga instructor at Courthouse Racquet & Fitness.

—Sadaaf Mamoon

A good party is memorable for the experience and the people, and choosing the right venue that allows guests to enjoy those things can be tricky. This year’s winner, The South Warehouse, provides a unique space in the heart of downtown that can be transformed for events from wedding receptions to fashion shows. The old warehouse’s exposed-brick walls convey authenticity and history. Event planners can make creative use of the large open space to create multiple vignettes and distinct areas for different activities—eating, bars, music, lounging.

—Julie Skipper

412 W. Ridgeland Ave., Ridgeland, 601-856-5400, holmes.cc.ms.us

627 E. Silas Brown St., 601-939-4518

COURTESY JEAN POWERS

Second: Fairview Inn/Sophia’s (734 Fairview St., 601-948-3429) / Third: Hilton Garden Inn Downtown Jackson/King Edward Hotel (235 W. Capitol St., 601-353-5464) / Good Showing: Duling Hall (622 Duling Ave., 601-941-1342), Parlor Market (115 W. Capitol St., 601-3600090), The Cedars (4145 Old Canton Road, 601-366-5552), Mississippi Children’s Museum (2145 Highland Drive, 601-981-5469)

Second: James Bowley, Millsaps College (1701 N. State St., 601-974-1000) / Third: Matt Steffey, Mississippi College School of Law (151 E. Griffith St., 601-925-3000) / Good Showing: Jay Long, Hinds Community College (3925 Sunset Drive, 601-366-1450); Bob Pennebaker, Belhaven University (1500 Peachtree St., 601-968-5940); Robert McElvaine, Millsaps College (1701 N. State St., 601-974-1000); James Stewart, Tougaloo College (500 W. County Line Road, 601-977-7768)

Best Place to Get Married: Fairview Inn 734 Fairview St., 601-948-3429, fairviewinn.com

When I moved to Jackson, one of the first things I discovered was New Stage Theatre.

Since then, I have seen numerous plays there, including the famous “A Christmas Carol.”

At New Stage, it just felt like home.

Jane Reid Petty founded New Stage Theatre in 1965. Its mission has been “to provide professional theater of the highest quality for the people of Mississippi and the southeast.”

Right now, go see “Lombardi,” a play about the sports great Vince Lombardi. It’s playing until Feb. 5. Also, consider checking out “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.”

—Briana Robinson

COURTESY FAIRVIEW INN

1100 Carlisle St., 601-948-3531, newstagetheatre.com

It’s (arguably) the most important day of your life: your wedding day. You want a location that is special and allows you to express yourself through your event design. The Fairview Inn, a 1908 Colonial Revival Mansion, provides a classic romantic setting for indoor or outdoor ceremonies and rehearsal dinners. It can also accommodate overnight guests or the happy couple in a honeymoon suite. Rounding out this year’s list is another historic property, the Cedars, along with more modern structures like the Mississippi Craft Center. Jackson has no shortage of options for couples to find the location that’s right for them.

—Julie Skipper

Second: Fondren Theatre Workshop (fondrentheatreworkshop.org) / Third: Black Rose Community (103 Black St., Brandon, 601-825-1293) Good Showing: MADDRAMA at Jackson State University (1400 J.R. Lynch St., 601-979-2121); Thalia Mara Hall (255 E. Pascagoula St., 601960-1537); J. Lee Productions (jleeplays.com); Actor’s Playhouse (actorsplayhouse.net)

Second: The Cedars (4145 Old Canton Road, 601-366-5552) / Third (tie): The South Warehouse (627 E. Silas Brown, 601-939-4518); Mynelle Gardens (4736 Clinton Blvd., 601-960-1894) / Good Showing: Luckett Lodge (214 Clark Creek Road, Brandon, 601-829-2567), Mississippi Craft Center (950 Rice Road, Ridgeland, 601-856-7546), Mississippi Agriculture and Forestry Museum (1150 Lakeland Drive, 601-432-4500)

Best Photographer/Photo Studio: Sterling Photography

Best Nonprofit Organization: Stewpot Community Services

731 Pear Orchard Road, Suite 36, Ridgeland, 601-982-3032, sterlingpics.net

The brainchild of William Sterling, Sterling Photography specializes in wedding and senior portraits, but also shoots family portraits, celebrities and magazine covers. Sterling has worked with actresses such as Nicole Arrie-Parker and supermodels like Cynthia Bailey.

He is the key photographer for Denim magazine and has worked with Vibe magazine.

Sterling previously worked at BlueCross BlueShield, but when his hobby started bringing in more money than his job, he said to himself, “Why not do what I love?”

“I don’t just look at myself as someone who takes pictures,” he says. “I see myself as someone who creates art.”

—Briana Robinson Second: Christina Cannon, Photography by Christina (christinafoto.com) / Third (tie): Josh Hailey, (joshhaileyart.com) and Justin Rives Photography (justinrives.com) / Good Showing: Ron Blaylock, Fondren Studio and Gallery (3017 N. State St., 601-506-6624); BlueGenes Photography by Becka Wigton (bluegenesphotography.com); Followell Fotography (Robby Followell, followellfotography.com)

Voted as Jackson’s best local cops, Officers Colendula Green and Ricky Bracey both enjoy serving the public and making our communities safer. Green wanted to be a lawenforcement officer since the days of hearing her father’s Vietnam War stories. “I always wanted to make a difference in people’s lives,” Green says. She now has seven years under her belt with the Jackson Police Department. She takes pride in helping people and cleaning up the streets. The mother of two is an artist and music lover.

After several friends and family members told him he “looks like a cop” and his years of working with the Department of Corrections, Officer Ricky finally put on the uniform.

A Ridgeland police officer of 11 years, Bracey loves what he does because of the support-

Since its founding by seven churches in 1981, Stewpot has evolved from a soup kitchen in a converted gas station into an interfaith resource offering a wide spectrum of services in the Jackson area. While known for its feeding of the hungry and food pantry, Stewpot also offers emergency shelter, housing, counseling, and community development projects aimed at improving the quality of life and spirituality of those in Jackson. With headquarters in the Central Urban Ministry Center (the old Central Presbyterian Church) on Capitol Street, Stewpot offers support, faith and hope to those in need. —Brett Benson Second: Community Animal Rescue and Adoption Inc. (CARA) (960 N. Flag Chapel Road, 601-922-7575) / Third: Salvation Army (1450 Riverside Drive, 601-969-7560); Junior League of Jackson (805 Riverside Drive, 601-948-2357 / Good Showing: Operation Shoestring (1711 Bailey Ave., 601-353-6336); Mustard Seed (1085 Luckney Road, Brandon, 601-992-3556); The Good Samaritan (114 Millsaps Ave., 601-355-6276)

ive community. “The community loves us, and that makes it easier to come to work,” Bracey says. He works as a school resource officer at Old Towne Middle School. Bracey is married with three daughters.

—LaShanda Phillips

FACEBOOK; COURTESY RICKY BRACEY

Best Local Cop (tie): Colendula Green, Jackson Police Department, and Ricky Bracey, Ridgeland Police Department

1100 W. Capitol St., 601-353-2759, stewpot.org

Second: Lee Vance, Jackson Assistant Police Chief / Third: Malcolm E. McMillin, former Hinds County Sheriff / Good Showing: Wendall Watts, Precinct 4, Jackson Police Department; Tyrone Lewis, Hinds County Sherriff; Tim Sarrett, Pearl Police Department; Kenny Dunn, Jackson Police Department SWAT Team

jacksonfreepress.com

Best Live Theater: New Stage Theatre

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January 25 - 31, 2012

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jacksonfreepress.com

Best Local Preacher: Chip Henderson

Best Project Under Construction: Farish Street

Pinelake Church, 6071 Highway 25, 601-829-4500

The historic neighborhood has been under construction in fits and starts and false starts for years. A booming Farish Street could breathe new life into downtown and the city as a whole but, as yet, the historic district hasn’t quite yet managed to live up to its potential. But there may be hope yet for the musical heart of the City with Soul. With a new development group, led by King Edward developer David Watkins, and the possibility of urban renewal bonds to fund the project, will 2012 be the year when Farish Street finally bursts onto the scene as Jackson’s old-is-new hot spot?

—Elizabeth Waibel

Best Public Figure: Former Gov. Haley Barbour After quite a few years hovering at or near the top of JFP readers’ list of favorite public figures, one polling company found that Haley Barbour was the most popular governor in America with a 60 percent approval rating in November. His popularity may have taken a hit in recent weeks due to the 200-plus pardons he handed out on his way out the door, but Barbour helped usher in a tidal wave of Republican successes in the last election and put a balanced budget at the top of the state’s priority list. Barbour was term-limited and could not seek re-election as governor, and he decided not to run for president, but he’ll still have a place in both D.C. and Jackson, albeit a bit more behind the scenes, as he returns to his old K-Street lobbying firm and takes a place at Ridgeland-based law firm Butler Snow. —Elizabeth Waibel Second: Mayor Harvey Johnson Jr. / Third: Gov. Phil Bryant / Good Showing: Brad “Kamikaze” Franklin; Sen. David Blount; Former Sheriff Malcolm McMillin

2012 Jewish

Cinema Mississippi The Matchmaker Wednesday, January 25, 7:15pm

Brothers Thursday, January 26, 7:15pm

A Matter of Size Saturday, January 28, 7:15pm

Jews & Baseball Sunday, January 29, 3:00pm

January 25 to 29, 2012 January 25 - 31, 2012

Malco Grandview Theatre 221 Grandview Boulevard, Madison, MS $10, Individual Tickets | $35, Festival Pass $5, Students

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For more information visit www.jewishcinemams.com.

JERRICK SMITH

Second: Keith Tonkel, Wells Memorial United Methodist Church (2019 Bailey Ave., 601-353-0658) / Third (tie): Rob Hill, Broadmeadow United Methodist Church (4419 Broadmeadow Drive, 601-366-1403); Dwayne K. Pickett, Sr., New Jerusalem Church of Jackson (1285 Raymond Road, 601-371-6772) / Good Showing: C. J. Rhodes, Mount Helm Baptist Church (300 E. Church St., 601-278-5620); Mike Campbell, Redeemer Church (640 E. Northside Drive, 601-362-9987); J. Ligon Duncan III, First Presbyterian Church of Jackson (1390 N. State St., 601-353-8316)

Second: Museum to Market Trail / Third: Old Capitol Green / Good Showing: Fortification Street; Downtown Jackson; Fondren

COURTESY PINELAKE CHURCH

Dr. Chip Henderson has been the senior pastor at Pinelake Church since 1999. The church has four locations: a 170-acre main campus off Lakeland Drive in Rankin County and satellite campuses in the Madison/Ridgeland area, Clinton and Starkville. The mission of the church, with more than 9,000 members, is to live out the vision of life change by developing Christ-followers who “learn from Christ, live for Christ and lead others to Christ.” When Henderson is not preaching or serving in the community, he hunts or hits the pavement for a run. He lives in Flowood with his wife, Christy, and their three children, Rachel, McKenzie and Reagan.

—ShaWanda Jacome

Best Radio Personality, Best Radio Station: Nate and Murphy (Y101)

Best Teacher (K-12): Adam Frazier, Ridgeland High School

265 Highpoint Drive, Ridgeland, 601-956-0102, y101.com

COURTESY Y101

Second: Lesley Benton (Pisgah Elementary School) / Third: Natalie Long / Good Showing: Ashley Hewitt (Green Elementary School); Taylor Hildebrand (Brown Elementary School); Laura Blackwell (McWillie Upper Elementary School)

Best Radio Station Second: WJMI (99 JAMS) / Third: WMSI (MISS 103) / Good Showing: WRBJ (97.7); WRXW (ROCK 93.9); WWJX (JACK 94.7)

Best Real Estate Agent: Don Potts

Best Stage Play: ‘Everyone Plays the Fool’ by J. Lee Productions

Nix-Tann & Associates (1776 Lelia Drive, 601-982-7918)

Second: Mary Janita Tyree, Charlotte Smith Real Estate (601-982-7998)/ Third: Hayley Hayes, The Overby Company (2630 Ridgewood Road, 601-366-8511) / Good Showing: John Skelton (601-540-8099)

AARON PHILLIPS

Chris Paige’s barbershop, Custom Cuts and Styles (2445 Terry Road, 601321-9292) is cited as one of the best in town, and Paige takes this award for the second year in a row. Recently, Custom Cuts and Styles partnered with Jackson State University to accept the JSU Supercard. Given the reverence in which college guys hold a fresh haircut, it’s safe to assume that Paige won’t stop rising any time soon.

—R.L. Nave Second: Donnie Wahl / Third (tie): Brad Reeves and Craig and Michele Escude / Good Showing: Jay Long; John Skelton; Luis Caballero

Second: “Annie” by New Stage Theatre / Third: “Dracula” by New Stage Theatre / Good Showing: “Assassins” by Fondren Theatre Workshop; “A Christmas Carol” by New Stage; “Guys and Dolls” by Black Rose Community Theatre; “Driving Miss Daisy” by New Stage

Best TV Personality: Barbie Bassett (WLBT) Barbie Bassett’s southern charm and humble spirit keep viewers tuned to WLBT to determine if they will need a coat or umbrella the next morning. As WLBT’s first chief meteorologist in the station’s 50-year history, Bassett has won awards from numerous community and professional organizations, including the Associated Press “Best Weathercast” award. She has also been granted the Seal of Approval by the American Meteorological Society. Bassett is an accomplished speaker and writer. Her two books, “Carry an Umbrella When There’s Rain in the Forecast” and “Forecasts by Faith,” sell nationwide. With her success, you can predict beautiful days ahead in her forecast.

—Torsheta Bowens Second: Maggie Wade (WLBT) / Third: Howard Ballou (WLBT) / Good Showing: Megan West (WAPT), Bert Case (WLBT), Walt Grayson (WLBT)

COURTESY BARBIE BASSETT

Best Rising Entrepreneur: Chris Paige

“We all make mistakes,” Jimmie Lee says about the message of “Everyone Plays the Fool.” “We have to learn from them.” He describes the play as his most personal one to date and a play that everyone can relate to. J. Lee Productions presented the play Oct. 2 for the Jackson State University homecoming.

“Everyone Plays the Fool” explores what it means to be a fool in love. Following in the footsteps of Tyler Perry and other modern playwrights, Lee creates a family of troublemakers. Ira, the overworked fool, and Sheena, the confident fool, are married, but Sheena has a secret that tests the relationship. Her sisters, Tamya, the confrontational fool, and Mariah, the naïve fool, are dating some fools as well.

Buy a DVD of the play at jleeplays.com.

—Briana Robinson LIZZIE WRIGHT

Don Potts is all-around community man. The Jackson native is a founding member of Rainbow Natural Grocery and the Fondren Renaissance Foundation. He currently serves as the president of the board for the Mississippi Opera and is a member of the Fondren Civitan Club. A real estate agent at Nix-Tann, Potts has been in the industry for almost 27 years.

He has lived in the Fondren area since 1989 and doesn’t plan on going anywhere. Potts is married with three children and owns the only miniature horse in Fondren—at least to our knowledge. —LaShanda Phillips

KRISTIN BRENEMEN

Best Radio Personality Second: Rick and Kim (MISS 103) / Third: Brad and Mandy (Rock 93.9), Scott Steele (WUSJ 96.3) / Good Showing: Bo Bounds (The Zone 105.9), DJ Unpredictable (Hot 97.7), DJ Jonasty (Hot 97.7)

Last spring, I had the opportunity to watch Adam Frazier in action, and let me tell you, it’s a sight to behold. He has a unique ability to blend solid teaching instruction and classroom management with a fun rapport with his students. So it’s no surprise that his students turned out in record numbers to vote him best teacher.

Frazier has been teaching for eight years and just began his sixth year at Ridgeland High School where he teaches 10th grade English. He is also the assistant cross-country coach at RHS and track coach at Olde Towne Middle School. He grew up in Jackson and graduated from Mississippi College with a degree in English Education in 2003.

“It’s a practical, hands-on way to change the world. I can watch a student’s development from the beginning of the year to the end of the year,” Frazier says. “That is rewarding. My favorite thing about teaching at RHS is the students. I love each and every one of them.”

Frazier is also passionate about travel and spends his entire summer on the road. So far, he has been to five continents and 40 countries.

—ShaWanda Jacome

jacksonfreepress.com

Tuning in to their radio chemistry every morning, you wouldn’t know that Nate West and Tim Murphy have only been on air together for about three years. Their voices are the soundtrack to many a morning, as the two share their light, witty banter with hundreds of listeners on the Y101 Morning Showgram. The pair muses about everything from celebrity gossip to current events, all while playing the year’s most popular music.

Clinton native West and Virginian Murphy’s well-rounded bromance provides a fresh, entertaining pop-culture commentary. Listeners all around love their familiar tone and feel like intimate friends with the pair by the end of the program. Nate and Murphy are the pride and joy of the hit-music radio station Y101.

—Sadaaf Mamoon

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Thanks For Shopping Local and

Best TV Sportscaster: Rob Jay (WLBT)

voting for us in the

COURTESY ROB JAY

Best of Jackson 2012

His lively style of reporting is what makes Rob Jay’s sportscast one of the best in the city. Jackson’s sports enthusiasts flock to their televisions daily to hear Jay’s colorful commentary on the latest sports news. You are assured a laugh as he jokes his way through the segment and afterward banters with the other anchors. In addition to his role as sports director at WLBT, Jay is a sideline reporter for Jackson State football and often does play-by-play announcing for Jackson State basketball. He has also worked as a freelance reporter for the Major Black College Sports network. Be sure to catch Rob Jay’s sports segment.

—Torsheta Bowens Second: Aslan Hodges (WAPT) / Third: Ray Coleman (WAPT) / Good Showing: Jason Hurst (WJTV), Jon Wiener (FOX 40), Michael Rubenstein (WLBT)

Most Under-Appreciated Jacksonian: Funmi ‘Queen’ Franklin

USDA Choice & Prime Beef, Party Trays, Baked Goods, Chips & Dip, Charcoal, Lighter Fluid.

Everything You Need For The Big Game!

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Second: David Watkins / Third (tie): Leslee Foukal; Kimberly Jacobs / Good Showing: Marika Cackett; Melinda Murphy

Best Urban Warrior (tie): Julie Skipper, Brad Franklin

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FILE PHOTO; COURTESY BRAD FRANKLIN

To understand why Julie Skipper and Brad “Kamikaze” Franklin are considered the city’s top urban warriors, one would need to consult an urban dictionary for the definition of H.A.M.—’cause they both go hard as a mother. Skipper, a Vanderbilt law grad, is a JFP freelance contributor and Jackson “It Girl.” Franklin, meanwhile, clearly took the “mass” part in the mass communication degree he earned from Jackson State University literally: Not only is he involved in a number of business ventures and community projects, he’s also a JFP columnist, is one of the capital city’s most recognized hip-hop artists and had a pizza at Sal & Mookie’s named after him.

—R.L. Nave

Second: David Watkins / Third: Craig Noone / Good Showing: Jeff Good; Jonas “DJ Jonasty” Adams; Ben Allen

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Maywood Mart 1220 E. Northside Dr. 601-366-8486 Woodland Hills Shopping Center Fondren 601-366-5273 English Village 904 E. Fortification St. 601-355-9668 Westland Plaza 2526 Robinson Rd. 601-353-0089

NOW IN YAZOO CITY!

FILE PHOTO

January 25 - 31, 2012

Best Visionary: David Watkins After a 30-year legal career and travels all over the world, Watkins has turned his focus on development in Jackson, shining up the city’s historic neighborhoods and helping Jackson’s renaissance take root. Perhaps the brightest jewel in Watkins’ crown was his success in reviving the long-deceased King Edward Hotel. Now, Watkins has turned his attention to another neglected Jackson gem—Farish Street. The empty shells of its former blues haunts might not look like much now, but if anyone has the vision and drive to pump life back into Jackson’s musical core, it’s David Watkins.

—Elizabeth Waibel Second: Craig Noone / Third: Brad “Kamikaze” Franklin / Good Showing: Jeff Good; Bill Cooley

FILE PHOTO

Funmi “Queen” Franklin juggles a lot in her mission to improve our communities, and that’s why Jackson voted her as under-appreciated Jacksonian. Franklin, 37, is the training coordinator for the State Department of Health. For almost 10 years, she has overseen the nurse aid-training program for the state. In 2006, she founded Sisters Increasing Positive Progression Inc. The organization of professional women has sessions to support and encourage each other and the community.

Franklin is a board member of the Leadership Greater Jackson Alumni Association, where she was recently nominated for representative for her Leadership Jackson class. She has served as an auxiliary board member of Mississippi Children’s Home Services. She credits her parents who were involved in the Civil Rights Movement for her passion for helping Jackson and our youth. Franklin, a wife and mother of four, is a freelance columnist for the Jackson Free Press and blogs at franklinspeaking.webnode.com.

—LaShanda Phillips

Thank You Jackson for voting us

Best of Finalists - Salad - Speciality Grocer

Thank You Jackson for voting us

Best of Finalists

jacksonfreepress.com

- Caterer - Vegetarian Burger - Vegetarian Option

23

Best Jackson Writer (Living): Kathryn Stockett kathrynstockett.com

Best Local Visual Artist (Living): Wyatt Waters

Whether it is the family dog or cat, living with free rein in the house, or farm animals such as horses, goats and cows, we often need to stop and remember how animals share their lives with us. Everyone remembers each dog or cat they’ve owned and shares the joy of a litter being born or grief when a beloved pet passes away. This bond is why the choice of veterinarian plays as important role in many families’ lives as choosing the family doctor.

This year’s JFP “Best of” choice for where to take Bowser, Fluffy or Tweetie Pie is North State Animal and Bird Hospital.

Owner Dr. Adrian Whittington again comes out as top dog, and with his three colleagues and staff have taken the top ... wait for it ...

“Spot.” (OK, my bad.) — Brett Benson

Clinton resident Wyatt Waters specializes in watercolor painting. He’s been at it for more than 20 years, and he opened his Clinton gallery in 2001, where customers can purchase paintings, prints and paraphernalia. He also performs with the band WatersEdge.

Former president of the Mississippi Watercolor Society, Waters paints scenes familiar to the area and its residents. His work is full of color, bringing Jackson alive with vibrancy.

Waters’ work can also be seen at Gallery 119 in Jackson or at Southside Gallery in Oxford. He’s illustrated several books, including “A Southern Palate” and “A Dixie Christmas.” He also has several books of his work published, which you can buy at Lemuria. —Briana Robinson

5208 N. State St., 601-982-8261

Second: Beth Kander (bethkander.com) / Third: Jill Conner Browne (sweetpotatoqueens.com) / Good Showing: Susan Marquez (susanmarquez.blogspot.com)

Second: Briarwood Animal Hospital (1471 Canton Mart Road, 601-956-5030) / Third: All Creatures Animal Care (262 New Mannsdale Road, Madison 601-856-5339) / Good Showing: Dr. Richard Gill (497 Springridge Road, Clinton 601-924-4169); Canton Animal Hospital (3114 Liberty St., Canton, 601-859-2703)

Thank You Jackson for voting Custom Tailoring by Al as a finalist in

the Best of Jackson 2012!

Ridgeland & Flowood

FLOWOOD 258 Dogwood Blvd. | Flowood, MS 39232 Mon-Sat 9:00am-6:00pm | 601.992.1373 January 25 - 31, 2012

RIDGELAND 1000 Highland Colony Parkway Ste. 4004 Renaissance | Ridgeland, Ms 39157 Mon-Fri 8:30am-6:00pm | Sat 8:30am-6:00pm 601-607-3443

24

www.customtailoringbyal.com

307 Jefferson St., Clinton, 601-925-8115, wyattwaters.com

Second: Ginger Williams-Cook (gingerwilliams.net) / Third: Josh Hailey (joshhaileyart.com, joshhaileyphotography.com) / Good Showing: Ellen Langford (ellenlangford.com); William Goodman (enhancedmixture.com); Tony Davenport (tonydavenportimages.com)

MATTHEW BRANTLEY

COURTESY DREAMWORKS

“I don’t presume to think that I know what it really felt like to be a black woman in Mississippi, especially the 1960s. I don’t think it is something any white woman on the other end of a black woman’s paycheck could ever truly understand. But trying to understand is vital to our humanity.” These are the words of author Kathryn Stockett about her bestselling book “The Help.” The book tells the story of a young white woman, Skeeter, and her relationship with two black maids, Aibileen and Minny, in 1962.

Stockett was born and raised in Jackson and had a black maid, Demetrie, growing up. She received her degree in English and creative writing from the University of Alabama. She moved to New York City at age 23 to work in magazine publishing and marketing. It was there that she began writing “The Help” in 2001. Her manuscript received more than 60 rejections from agents before it was published by Amy Einhorn Books (Penguin Group) in 2009.

The film adaptation, produced by Stockett’s Jackson childhood friend Tate Taylor, was released in 2011 by Dreamworks and won a Golden Globe award. Stockett now lives in Atlanta.

—ShaWanda Jacome

Best Vet or Vet Clinic: North State Animal and Bird Hospital

Best Annual Event, Best Outdoor Event: Malâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s St. Paddyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Parade

Best Beauty Shop or Salon: Barnetteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Salon

Downtown Jackson, 601-948-0888, halandmals.com/Parade.html

Best Museum, Best Tourist Attraction: Mississippi Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Museum

AARON PHILLIPS

2145 Highland Drive, 601-981-5469, mississippichildrensmuseum.com

In a world where kids are constantly being told what not to do, the Mississippi Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Museum offers a place that is just for them.

The 40,000-square-foot museum has around 20,000 square feet of exhibits that reflect five themes: Mississippi heritage, health and nutrition, literacy, cultural arts, and science and technology.

Two of my favorite exhibits are the extralarge wall-to-wall Scrabble game and the digestive system model where kids can slide their way into a huge toilet. Sounds gross, but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s actually really cool! All the exhibits give children the opportunity to touch, play, explore and learn. Families can buy annual memberships that give you full access to the museum as well as, discounts in the gift shop, birthday party rentals and more. Memberships can also be given as a gift.

The museum holds an annual Ignite the Night fundraising event. The night is just for adults and gives them an opportunity to explore and feel like kids again. This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s event is Saturday, Feb. 11, with a 1920s theme. Last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s event raised $100,000, and they are hoping to match or exceed that this year. â&#x20AC;&#x201D;ShaWanda Jacome Best Museum Second: Mississippi Museum of Natural Science (2148 Riverside Drive, 601-354-7303) / Third: Mississippi Museum of Art (380 S. Lamar St., 601-960-1515) / Good Showing: Mississippi Agricultural and Forestry Museum (1150 Lakeland Drive, 601-432-4500); Old Capitol Museum (100 S. State St., 601-359-6920); Smith Robertson Museum and Cultural Center (528 Bloom St., 601-960-1457) Best Tourist Attraction Second: Old Capitol Museum (100 S. State St., 601-359-6920) / Third: The Mississippi Craft Center (950 Rice Road, Ridgeland, 601-856-7546) / Good Showing: Mississippi Museum of Art (380 S. Lamar St., 601-960-1515); Welty House and Garden (1119 Pinehurst St., 601-353-7762); Jackson Zoo (2918 W. Capitol St., 601-352-2580) 6HH HUURUV" &DOO %ULDQD 5RELQVRQ DW H[W RU HPDLO EULDQD#MDFNVRQIUHHSUHVV FRP VR ZH FDQ FRUUHFW LW RQOLQH DQG LQ WKH QH[W LVVXH

Second: LaCru Salon (5352 Lakeland Drive, Suite 600, Flowood, 601-992-7980)/ Third: SMoak Salon (622 Duling Ave, Suite 206, 601-982-5313)/ Good Showing: Social Agenda Salon (419 Mitchell Ave., 601-982-5575); Laceyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Salon (1935 Lakeland Drive, Suite C, 601-397-6389)

Best Bookstore: Lemuria Books

Banner Hall, 4465 Interstate 55 N., Suite 202, 601-366-7619, lemuriabooks.com

It is a testament to Jackson that local readers chose quality over quantity. Lemuria Books can order anything that might not be in stock, plus it offers a connection to authors. Recently, in conjunction with Hal & Malâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, Lemuria Books hosted a visit by author Chuck Palahniuk. David Sedaris, Keith Spera, Erin Morgenstern, Preston Lauterbach and Curtis Wilkie have all made their way to Lemuria Books. The comfortable atmosphere makes it easy to spend an entire afternoon lost in a book. â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Michael Jacome

TOM RAMSEY

Best Outdoor Event Second: Pepsi Pops (Old Trace Park, Post Road, Ridgeland, 601-960-1565) / Third: Wellsfest (wellschurch.org) / Good Showing: CelticFest (celticfestms.org); Jacktoberfest (jacktoberfest.com); Fondren After 5 (fondren.org/fondren_after_5)

Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve had a few bad haircuts, bad stylists and horrible dye jobs throughout the years, and I blame myself because I knew better than to stray from Barnetteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Salon. The salon, owned by husband-and-wife team Ralph and Susan Barnette, has been a favorite for years.

It was the only salon in the state to be one of Elle Magazineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Top 100 Salons in 2011. The staff is not only friendly and professional, but also immensely talented, consisting of some of the top stylists in town. To top it off, the whole place is filled with the scent of Aveda products, which in my book, is probably the best scent in the world. â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Holly Perkins

Second: Choctaw Books (926 N. State St., 601-352-7281) / Third: Heroes and Dreams: Comics and Collectibles (5352 Lakeland Drive, Suite 1700, Flowood, 601-992-3100) / Good Showing: The Book Rack (1491 Canton Mart Road, Suite 7, 601-956-5086; 584 Springridge Road, Suite C, Clinton, 601-924-9020); JSU Bookstore (Jackson State University, Student Center, 1400 J. R. Lynch St., 601-979-2021)

Best Reason to Live in Jackson: The People Despite its size, Jackson has many small-town qualities. Jackson is a city with a strong community where we know our mail carrier, our librarians and the barista who crafts our perfect latte. We run into our doctors at the neighborhood pizza joint and our childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s preschool teacher at the grocery. Jackson is a place where we can get into a conversation with a complete stranger in a waiting room or a grocery line or at the gym and walk away knowing each otherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life stories and feeling all the richer for getting acquainted. â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Kelly Bryan Smith Second: Fondren / Third: Family / Fourth: Shopping; Community; Belhaven

Best Boutique: Material Girls

182 Promenade Blvd., Flowood, 601-992-4533; 1000 Highland Colony Parkway, Ridgeland, 601-605-1605, shopmaterialgirls.com

Staying on trend can be a tall order for a girl, so itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s good to have some go-to shops to help you out. This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s winners are up to the task. Material Girls not only has an online store, but will text you with the latest arrivals and sales to keep you in the know. Treehouse in Fondren is one of my personal favorites both for cocktail dresses and designer denim.

Libby Story, which recently moved to Renaissance at Colony Park, offers a fun and funky mix of modern and vintage pieces, and I often find deals on some killer shoes there. These local boutiques are definitely doing their part to keep Jackson stylish. â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Julie Skipper Second: Treehouse (3000 N. State St., 601-982-3433) / Third: Libby Story (1000 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite 5003, 662-323-1427) / Good showing: Migiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s (131 Market St., Flowood, 601-919-8203), Pink Bombshell (270 Dogwood Blvd., Flowood, 601-919-1366, 1000 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite 5007, 601-853-0775), circa. Urban Artisan Living (2771 Old Canton Road, 601-362-8484); 4450 (440 Interstate 55 N., 601-366-3687)

jacksonfreepress.com

Best Annual Event Second: Mistletoe Marketplace (Mississippi Trade Mart, 1200 Mississippi St., 601-948-2357) / Third: Chimneyville Crafts Festival (Mississippi Trade Mart, 1200 Mississippi St., 601-856-7546) / Good Showing: CelticFest (www.celticfestms.org); Wellsfest (www.wellschurch.org); Fondren Unwrapped (Fondren neighborhood, 601-981-9606)

4465 Interstate 55 N., 601-362-9550; 1000 Highland Colony Parkway, Ridgeland, 601-898-9123, barnettessalon.com

WILLIAM PATRICK BUTLER

When someone first said the words Malâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s St. Paddyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Parade to me, I must admit I had never heard of it. So my first parade was a special treat. My son and I had the opportunity to walk in the parade with the JFPâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Too Live Crew spearheaded by the feisty Josh Hailey.

The parade started in 1983 by Malcolm White, co-owner of Hal & Malâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and now director of the Mississippi Arts Commission. He was looking for a way to bring Jacksonians together to â&#x20AC;&#x153;embrace and celebrate this wacky, fun-loving rite of spring, vaguely St. Patrickâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day, Mardi Gras-like third-weekend-in-March occasion and claim it as itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s very own.â&#x20AC;?

The weekend festival has attracted more than 60,000 revelers and boosted more than $7 million into the local economy. It isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t just fun and games: It also raises money for the Blair E. Batson Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hospital. The 30th Annual Malâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s St. Paddyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Parade is March 17. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re interested in entering a float, applications are accepted through Feb. 13. Come one, come all; itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s going to be one heck of a party! â&#x20AC;&#x201D;ShaWanda Jacome

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LUNCH BUNCH LUNCH When: Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2012 Time: 11:30 am Where: Jackson Medical Mall Community Room

Reserve a $5 lunch by calling 601.969.6015 ext 301 or e-mail lcockrell@parents4publicschools.org Founding Chapter, Parents for Public Schools, 1989 200 N. Congress, Suite 500, Jackson, MS 39201 www.ppsjackson.org

9, 2010 & 2011 2 00 Place Winner 1 st

Best Draft Beer

, 2 0 10 & 2 0 09 201 1 a c l e P W t inn 1s er

Best Bottled Beer

6111 Ridgewood Rd. Jackson, MS 601-978-3502

I]Vc` ndj ?;E GZVYZgh

January 25 - 31, 2012

[dg kdi^c\ [dg i]Z WjaaYd\ ^c WZhi d[ _VX`hdc '%&'

26

until 7:00 pm

• Double mixed drinks for the singles price • Discounted pints and pitchers • 1/2 off house wines visit our website www.draftfreak.com

Best Bridal/Gift Registry: The Everyday Gourmet

Best Comic Book Store: Heroes and Dreams: Comics and Collectibles

5352 Lakeland Drive, Suite 1700, Flowood, 601-992-3100, heroesanddreams.com

The Everyday Gourmet sells Mississippi-made items such as raspberry chipotle sauce, cheese straws and Oxford Falls comeback dressing. You can also buy novelty items such as Mississippi-shaped cutting boards and cookie cutters. The Everyday Gourmet won the Jackson Free Press Best Bridal/Gift Registry and Mississippi Magazineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Best Kitchen Store last year.

Everyday Gourmet prides itself on having one of the largest bridal registries in the south. Even though a newly married couple could use almost any of the items in the store, the bridal registry (with an online component) makes it even simpler to find great gifts at a locally owned store. â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Briana Robinson

Jay Long at Heroes and Dreams thinks that you deserve more. Perhaps you buy comic books at the supermarket or the bookstore, which is OK. But like a man trapped on an island with only a coconut tree for food, that will only keep you alive. How long will it be until you start dreaming of a juicy steak? Heroes and Dreams is that steak. They offer a variety of comics to satisfy everyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s taste: adults, kids, teens or even the old man living down by the river. As a bonus, after you finish perusing the variety of choices, stay for a game night. Wii, Heroclix, Magic and others are options for this weekly Friday night event. Or come out for a movie projected outside in drive-in theater style. For Halloween, they showed â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Rocky Horror Picture Show.â&#x20AC;? Well, â&#x20AC;&#x153;dammit, Janet,â&#x20AC;? thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pretty awesome! â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Michael Jacome

Second: Batte Furniture (1010 E. Northside Drive, 601-366-0335) / Third: Persnickety Home Accents and Fine Gifts (2078 Main St., Madison, 601-853-9595) / Good Showing: The Early Settler (4500 Interstate 55, Suite 118, 601-366-2715); The Cupboard (745 Clinton Parkway, Clinton, 601-924-5245); The Paper Place (2941 Old Canton Road, 601-366-3675); Mississippi Craft Center (950 Rice Road, Ridgeland, 601-856-7546)

Second: Vanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Comics and Cards (558 Highway 51, Ridgeland, 601-898-9950) / Third: Java Ink (420 Roberts St., Pearl, 601-397-6292) / Good Showing: Comic Commander/Action Island (579 Highway 51, Suite D, Ridgeland, 601-856-1789)

Best Campaigner for Best of Jackson Award: Chris Paige

Best Dance Lessons: Salsa Mississippi 605 Duling Ave., 601-213-6355, salsamississippi.com

With multiple locations in Jackson, Madison, Byram and Flowood, Courthouse adds convenience to go along with the fitness programs they offer.

The programs and classes include yoga, aerobics and kickboxing. Courthouse also offers sports training like basketball and racquetball. Highly trained, certified, personal trainers help you maintain or achieve your fitness goals.

Courthouse offers a membership package that will fit for just about everyone. â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Pamela Hosey Second: The Club (multiple locations: theclubms.com) / Third: YMCA (multiple locations) / Good Showing: Fitness Lady (331 Sunnybrook Road, Ridgeland, 601-856-0535, and 5720 Highway 80 East, Pearl, 601-9392122); Baptist Healthplex (717 Manship St., 601-968-1766); Anytime Fitness (4924 Interstate 55 N., 601-321-9465; 628 South Pearson Road, Pearl, 601-664-0330; 655 Highway 49 S., Richland, 601-933-1945) 6HH HUURUV" &DOO %ULDQD 5RELQVRQ DW H[W RU HPDLO EULDQD#MDFNVRQIUHHSUHVV FRP VR ZH FDQ FRUUHFW LW RQOLQH DQG LQ WKH QH[W LVVXH

Best Caterer: Fresh Cut Catering & Floral

108 Cypress Cove, Flowood, 601-939-4518, wendyputt.com

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no secret that Jacksonians love to party.

Thanks to Wendy Putt of Fresh Cut Catering & Floral, the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s parties can be safe from any sort of food or decoration disaster. Always perfectly prepared, Puttâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s menu is delicious and impeccable, making her Jacksonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favorite caterer. Fresh Cut is a one-stop shop for food and flower design, and Putt makes every party an unforgettable experience with her variety of a food offerings, lovely decorations and floral arrangements, and professional service. â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Sadaaf Mamoon Second: Mangia Bene (4465 Interstate 55 N., Suite 101, 601-362-2900) / Third: Cosmopolitan Catering (2947 Old Canton Road, 601-983-4450) / Good Showing: Julep Restaurant & Bar (4500 Interstate 55 N., 601-362-1411); VIP Grand Events (4500 Interstate 55 N., 601-713-4040); Julie Levanwayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fresh From the Flame (5446 River Thames Road, 601-957-6123)

Best Category We Left Off (tie): Japanese Hibachi / Weight Loss Facility / Travel Agent Jacksonians have given us interesting suggestions for new categories to consider next year. And they combine some of our favorite thingsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;food and travelâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; with a health-related category: weight loss.

Japanese hibachi restaurants are all about the show: Cooks twirl their knives with lightning-fast aplomb, slicing and dicing your selection of fresh ingredients inches from your nose before serving it up.

Travel agents know all the well-kept secrets that discount Internet travel websites canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t give you. Just give them your wish list and let them do the legwork for your perfect vacation.

And of course, when youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re ready to get serious about taking off the pounds, whether from all that great southern comfort food or eating out a few times too many, nothing beats a weight-loss expert. Go add your suggestions for new categories for the next round at bestofjackson.com. â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Ronni Mott

jacksonfreepress.com

Multiple Locations, mscourthouse.com

AARON PHILLIPS

Best Fitness Center/Gym: The Courthouse Racquet and Fitness

Second: Dance Connection Ballroom Dance Center (306 N. Bierdeman Road, Pearl, 601-9322374) / Third: Ballet Mississippi (201 E. Pascagoula St., Suite 106, 601-960-1560) / Good Showing: Dance Unlimited (6787 S. Siwell Road, Suite E, Byram 601-373-6143; 3091 Highway 49 S., Suite E, Florence, 601-373-6143); Beverlyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s School of Dance (107 Office Park Drive, Brandon, 601-825-4056), Ballet Magnificat! (5406 Interstate 55 N., 601-977-1001), The Dance Studio (665 S. Pear Orchard Road, Suite 100, Ridgeland, 601-899-8880)

WILLIAM PATRICK BUTLER

Salsa Mississippi wins again this year, with the best dance classes in town. They offer a range from beginner salsa to hiphop to West Coast Swing, all for just $10, and a Zumba class for just $5. A friend who recently attended their Zumba class sent me an excited text message afterward claiming it was â&#x20AC;&#x153;the best Zumba class everâ&#x20AC;? and said â&#x20AC;&#x153;I felt like I was in â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Dancing with the Stars:â&#x20AC;&#x2122; It was so freeing, SO good.â&#x20AC;? Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not just her, though.

Every time I pass by and see the dancers during their Saturdaynight Latin Dance Party, it seems everyone feels free and happy. Sometimes you need a little spice in your life, and Salsa Mississippi is just the place to get it. â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Holly Perkins

Chris Paige again pulled off a coup to capture to the Rising Entrepreneur honor for a consecutive year. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not to say that runner-up Jeff Good is slouch at self-promotion; itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s just that when you operate four food businesses, somethingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s gotta give. Maybe itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the fact that election season is upon us, but folks this year seemed to vie as hard for 2012 Best of Jackson awards as candidates seeking their partyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s presidential nomination. The only difference is that this is a crew of campaigners that weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d actually enjoy having over for a tea party. â&#x20AC;&#x201D;R.L. Nave Second: Jeff Good / Third: Janis Boersma Good Showing: Whitney Giordano/Material Girls, Nate and Murphy/Y101

COURTESY BEAU RIVAGE RESORT & CASINO

COURTESY EVERYDAY GOURMET

1625 E. County Line Road, Suite 500, 601-977-9258, theeverydaygourmet.com

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Best Day Spa: Aqua the Day Spa

Best Facialist/Esthetician: Laya Parisi, LaCru Salon

4465 Interstate 55 N., 601-362-9550; 1000 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite 8001, Ridgeland, 601-898-9123, aquathedayspa.com

5352 Lakeland Drive, Suite 600, Flowood, 601992-7980, lacrusalon.com, layasskincare.com

Licensed esthetician Laya Parisi knows skin.

She provides epidermal expertise and a list of packages and treatments for any skin-care concerns. Parisi even encourages you to bring your current skin-care products to evaluate and educate your way to better-looking face, neck and hands. After a visit with Parisi, you will feel more relaxed and motivated about maintaining or improving your way to better-looking skin.

—Pamela Hosey

Second: Trio Medi Spa (4812 Lakeland Drive, Flowood, 601-608-8746) / Third: LaCru (5352 Lakeland Drive, Suite 100, Flowood, 601-992-7980) / Good Showing: Skin District (2629 Courthouse Circle, Suite B, Flowood, 601-981-7546), Drench (118 W. Jackson St., Suite 2B, Ridgeland, 601-707-5656), Mon Ami (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 128, 601-366-7721), nomiSpa (734 Fairview St., 601-948-3429)

Second: Linda Whitaker (Sun Gallery, 6712 Old Canton Road, Ridgeland, 601-957-7502) / Third: Tamar Sharp (nomiSpa, 734 Fairview St., 601-948-3429) / Good Showing: Rachel McDuffie (Aqua the Day Spa, 4465 Interstate 55 N., 601-362-9550); Ryan Hodges (Sanctuary Body Spa at the Township, 340 Township Ave., Suite 200, 601-790-2222)

Best Dentist: Jim Ed Watson, Center for Smiles

Best Barber Shop: Maurice’s

1437 Old Square Road, Suite 203, 601-366-7645, jxnsmiles.com

Second (tie): Lance Dillon (927 Highway 51, Madison, 601-898-3000), Chad Stokes (200 Key Drive, Madison, 601-856-5227), Rusty Riley (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 238, 601-366-1117) / Third: Brad Armstrong (459 Pebble Creek Drive, Madison, 601-856-3141) / Good Showing: Paula Stewart (505 Springridge Road, Suite C, Clinton, 601-924-2446), Jason Cox (105 Belle Meade Point, Flowood, 601-919-8575), Amy Sherman (1004 Hugh Ward Blvd., Flowood, 601-992-9975)

Multiple Locations: call 601-362-2343

Maurice’s barber shop is no new player in the cut-and-style industry. The Northside location opened in 1952, and the owners remodeled the space this year. For people new to the area looking to find a new barber, look no further. Maurice’s has locations in Jackson, Ridgeland and Madison. Want to get a fresh cut for the weekend, taper your loose edges or line up your hideous mustache and beard? Visit Maurice’s.

—Tam Curley Second: Custom Cuts and Styles (2445 Terry Road, 601-321-9292) / Third: Bob’s Cut and Curl (3015 N. State St., 601-362-0326) / Good Showing: Lil’ Dave’s (3013 J.R. Lynch St., 601-3541010 or 601-355-0003); Madison Family Barber (211 Hoy Road, Madison, 601-853-8084); Nappy Kutz (3807 Robinson Road, 601-923-6444)

COURTESY JIM ED WATSON

Most people dread going to the dentist. They squirm at the thought of that drill buzzing and of getting braces tightened again.

I’m not one of those people. Call me crazy, but I actually really love going to the dentist. And with Dr. Jim Ed Watson of The Jackson Center for Smiles around, it seems like people like me aren’t such a rarity anymore. A Yazoo native, Watson is an expert in veneers and full mouth restoration.

It’s only logical that you smile when you think about going to see Watson, because it’s likely that he made your smile as nice as it is.

—Holly Perkins

Best Hair Stylist: Lacey Norris, Lacey’s Salon & Accessories 1935 Lakeland Drive, 601-906-2253

Lacey’s Salon is an enigmatic blend of the classic and new.

Offering everything from the newest trendy cuts to flawless coloring, Canton native Lacey Norris undoubtedly knows her trade. A true testament to her fabulous service is the legion of loyal customers. Everything from the bright décor to the southern charm invites you into Lacey’s Salon. She truly is a champion, winning Best Hair Stylist for her fifth year running. Lacey’s is a Jackson favorite, headed by a young, passionate spirit who’s hard to forget.

—Sadaaf Mamoon

Best Doctor: Dr. Manisha Sethi

When it comes to their children, parents usually want the best for them, especially concerning their health care. With repeat Best Doctor winner, Dr. Manisha Sethi of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics in Ridgeland, the best is what they’ll get. Opened in 2005 by Sethi, the clinic serves patients of all ages with kind and professional care.

Sethi knew she wanted to be a doctor from a young age. She attended Millsaps College at age 15 and graduating magna cum laude at 18.

After completing her dual residency in pediatrics and internal medicine, she served as chief resident of pediatrics until opening her own clinic.

—Holly Perkins Second: Dr. Bard Johnston (401 Baptist Drive, Suite 104, Madison, 601-605-3858) / Third: Dr. Meredith Travelstead (501 Marshall St., Suite 400, 601-354-0869) / Good Showing: Dr. Bruce Black (401 Baptist Drive, Suite 104, Madison, 601-605-3858); Dr. Dan Woodliff (971 Lakeland Drive, Suite 250, 601-982-1283); Dr. Massie Headley (6250 Old Canton Road; Suite 100, 601957-1015); Dr. Joe Terry (935 Highway 51, Madison, 601-856-5986)

MEREDITH NORWOOD

COURTESY MANISHA SETHI

6919 Old Canton Road, Ridgeland; 601-956-0911

Second: Eddie Outlaw, William Wallace Salon (2939 Old Canton Road, 601-982-8300) / Third: Claire Kinsey, Gloss Salon (733 Lake Harbour Drive, 601-898-8640) / Good Showing: Griff Howard, Ritz Salon (775 Lake Harbour Drive, Suite H, Ridgeland, 601-856-4330); Crystal Williams, Social Agenda Salon & Boutique (2945 Old Canton Road, 601-982-5575); Stephanie Barnes, LaCru (5352 Lakeland Drive, Suite 600, Flowood, 601-992-7980)

Best Place to Buy Shoes: The Shoe Bar at Pieces 425 Mitchell Ave., 601-939-5204

At the Antique Mall of the South, you can find vintage and antique furniture, glassware, paintings and custom jewelry. Vendors bring in their own merchandise. The mall has been opened since 1991. “We have good merchandise at a fair price and our staff is friendly and helpful. And we have a great location,” manager Fay Hudgins says. Owned by Dunedin Corp., the antique mall is open seven days a week. Hours are Monday-Saturday 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Sunday 1 p.m.-6 p.m.

—Briana Robinson

Sometimes a girl wants to buy a new pair of shoes without the hustle and bustle of the shopping mall—or prefers to shop with a locally owned business. For those times, a trip to The Shoebar at Pieces is necessary. The boutique has unique and stylish shoes in brand names such as Jessica Simpson, Bebe and L.A.M.B for all the shoe addicts in the area.

Originally named Designer’s Shoe Palace, the store opened in 1993 on Lakeland Drive.

In 2007, the Shoe Bar at Pieces moved to a refurbished house in the Fondren area. The boutique also sells clothes, handbags and jewelry. The next time you’re itching for a new pair of Jeffrey Campbell or Sam Edelma shoes, check out the Shoe Bar’s selection.

Second: Old House Depot (639 Monroe St., 601-592-6200) / Third: Interiors Market (659 Duling Ave., 601-981-6020) / Good Showing: Repeat Street (626 Ridgewood Road, 601-605-9393); Interior Spaces (5060 Interstate 55 N., 601-956-4199); St. Martin’s Gallery (2817 Old Canton Road, 601362-1977)

Second: Earth Walk Shoes (4500 Interstate 55 N., 601-981-1975) / Third: Material Girls (1000 Highland Colony, Ridgeland, 601-605-1065) / Good Showing: Maison Weiss (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 109, 601-981-9621); Plato’s Closet (1260 E. County Line Road, Ridgeland, 601-487-8207)

Best Place to Buy Antiques: Antique Mall of the South

January 25 - 31, 2012

367 Highway 51, Ridgeland, 601-853-4000, antiquemallofthesouth.com

28

ALANA DONOVAN

Jacksonians have voted Aqua the Day Spa “Best Spa” since 2003. The spa, owned by Ralph and Susan Barnette, who also own Barnette’s Salon, is what a spa is supposed to be: a relaxing escape from the everyday. On stressful days, I daydream of being at Aqua with my hands in paraffin wax or getting the knots in my back massaged away. It offers six different types of massages and specialize in essential facial treatments, hair removal services, anti-aging facial treatments and luxurious body treatments, like the Lavender Relaxing Exfoliating Polish.

—Holly Perkins

Best Plumber: Skeen Plumbing and Gas Inc.

Best Locally Owned Business: LaCru Salon Tan and Spa

220 Christopher Cove, Suite A, Ridgeland, 601-856-5758, skeenplumbinggas.com

5352 Highway 25, Suite 100, Flowood, 601-992-7980

Hair, skin and nails are often my top priorities. Luckily for me, I can get pretty in a local spot and save gas and time. LaCru Salon Tan and Spa, opened by Stephanie Barnes eight years ago in February, has offered services including color, haircuts and styles, facials and tanning. “Our goal as a team will always be a commitment to performance, integrity and change,” Barnes said. The professionals can also wax and do various nail treatments.

Be sure to check out the Jane Ireland mineral cosmetic line.

—LaShanda Phillips

In March, Skeen will celebrate 29 years of meeting the plumbing needs of residents and businesses in the Jackson area. Ricky Skeen and his team take pride in having the besttrained, certified team around. Training takes place every week, introducing employees to new tools and technology. Plans are to send some technicians to Germany for upcoming training. Skeen says it is the only company in Mississippi offering a service that relines damaged pipes.

—Brett Benson

Second: circa. Urban Artisan Living (2771 Old Canton Road, 601-362-8484) / Third (tie): Parlor Market (115 W. Capitol St. 601-360-0090); Sneaky Beans (2914 N. State St., 601-497-6349) / Good Showing: Material Girls (1000 Highland Colony, Ridgeland 601-605-1065); Mangia Bene (3317 N. State St., 601-982-4443); Plato’s Closet (1260 E. County Line Road, 601-487-8207)

Second: Chris Wright (Wright Plumbing, 114 Southern Ridge Drive, Madison, 601-898-3223) Third: Buford Heating and Plumbing (5625 Highway 18 W., 601-372-7676) / Good Showing: Neill Plumbing (4321-1/2 N. State St., 601-366-0507); T.J. Hare Plumbing (Springridge Road, 601-922-1874); Wesley Brisendine at Mr. Rooter (601-414-0020)

Best Martial Arts Studio: Jason Griffin’s Tae Kwon Do 103 Christian Drive, Suite D, Brandon, 601-824-0058; 125 Dyess Road, Ridgeland, 601-977-9000, griffinstkd.com

Best Kids’ Event: WellsFest

September, Jamie Fowler Boyll Park, 1398 Lakeland Drive, 601-353-0658, wellschurch.org

Second: KidsFest (April, Freedom Ridge Park, 235 W. School St., Ridgeland, 601-853-2011) / Third: Rip the Cypher (121 Millsaps Ave., 601-540-5991) / Good Showing: Mississippi Children’s Museum (2145 Highland Drive, 877-793-5437); Pump It Up (1576 Old Fannin Road, Suite P, 601-992-5866); Mississippi State Fair (October, 1200 Mississippi St., 601-362-6121)

COURTESY WELLSFEST

For 28 years, the Wells Memorial United Methodist Church has proven that fun for the family can be had while contributing to a good cause. Another year has passed with the WellsFest event continuing to help others. It is as if sponsors and visitors go that extra mile in raising money. This year the beneficiary was the Mustard Seed Organization, which helps developmentally challenged adults to lead their lives to their fullest potential. With mixed selection of music, families enjoyed a relaxing time together with plenty of activities to choose from. Nearly 50 vendors came out to participate. Even though temperatures were in the mid ‘80s with plenty of fans in view, there were even more smiles in the crowd.

—Michael Jacome

At Jason Griffin’s Tae Kwon Do studio, beginners can learn the basics of self-defense and advance to become the next tae kwon do champion. Self-defense is not a new concept and is here to stay. For 15 years, the patient and talented Jason Griffin has taken time with each student, even following their grades in school. People use martial arts to fight off attackers. Some use it as a stress reliever, and others use it just as a way to compete with others. Considering putting your child in martial arts classes? The studio offers a trial class that includes a uniform with fees. Each studio has different class schedules, so call ahead.

—Tam Curley Second: Academy of Kung Fu (626 Ridgewood Road, Ridgeland, 601-856-5051) / Third: Gracie South (5352 Lakeland Dr., Suite 1400, Flowood, 601-502-7634) / Good Showing: West Hapkido Academy (291 Highway 51, Ridgeland, 601-856-8487); Martial Arts Academy (2160 Main St., Suite F, Madison, 601-898-5555); Knockout Fitness and MMA (205 Belle Meade Pointe, Flowood, 769-233-7901)

Best Massage Therapist: Martha Howell, Baptist Health Complex 717 Manship St., 601-968-1766, mbhs.org

921 E. Fortification St., 601- 983-5287, katswine.com

Kats offers an expansive selection of wines to accommodate anyone’s taste. Even if you aren’t a wine connoisseur, you won’t feel out of place due to descriptions along with meal pairing suggestions and Kats’ signature Wine Scoreboard that rates wines from 1 to 100.

At Kats, they believe that having a great bottle of wine shouldn’t put a dent in your wallet, which is why they offer more than 90 wines priced under $20. If you need guidance, the knowledgeable staff is eager to assist you with choosing the best wine. —Pamela Hosey

Best Garden Supply/Nursery: Lakeland Yard & Garden Center

4210 Lakeland Drive, Flowood, 601-939-7304, lakelandyardandgarden.com

It’s easy to wander for hours in Lakeland Yard & Garden’s 17-acre nursery. Walking in, one gets the distinct feeling of being inside the Secret Garden. Lakeland Yard & Garden offers everything from fig trees to blueberry bushes and a variety of garden and lawn decorations. With aisles and aisles of greenery and interesting lawn furniture to browse, it’s easy to lose yourself in the surroundings.

—Sadaaf Mamoon Second: Callaway’s Yard & Garden Center (839 Pear Orchard Road, Ridgeland, 601-957-1731) / Third: Green Oak (5009 Old Canton Road, 601-956-5017) / Good Showing: Hutto’s Home and Garden Center (1320 Ellis Ave., 601-973-2277); Martinson’s Garden Works (650 Highway 51, Ridgeland, 601-856-3078); Everyday Gardener (2905 Old Canton Road, 601-981-0273)

Second: Brad Jackson (Body Anew Medical Spa, 113 W. Jackson St., Suite 1-A, Ridgeland, 601605-0452) / Third: William Boren (Highland Village, 4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 239, 601-9425014) / Good Showing: Sara Simpson (2626 Southerland St., 601-613-6040); Stephanie Miller (The Massage Studio LLC, 1510 N. State St., Suite 302, 601-624-7784); Olga Richardson (Massage by Olga, 4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 254, 601-918-4087)

VIRGINIA SCHREIBER

Second: Briarwood Wine and Spirits (4949 Old Canton Road, 601-956-5108) / Third: Fondren Cellars (633 Duling Ave., 769-216-2323) / Good Showing: Joe T’s (286 Highway 51 N., Ridgeland, 601-605-7602); McDade’s Wine and Spirits (1220 E. Northside Drive, Suite 320, 601-366-5676); Reservoir Wine and Spirits (775 Lake Harbour Drive, Suite C, Ridgeland, 601-856-2712

Best Mechanic: Graves and Stoddard 722 Highway 80 E., Flowood, 601-939-3662

If you don’t have an ace mechanic for a relative, you need the repeat winner in this category, Graves and Stoddard in Flowood. With a “treat your car like it’s our own” attitude, Willie Graves and Todd Stoddard have kept cars going for the last 26 years.

“We know people don’t always have a lot of money,” Graves says, so they work with customers to get the vehicle back on the road.

—Brett Benson Second: Putnam’s Automotive Service (4879 N. State St., 601-366-1886) / Third: Ridgeland Service Center (282 Highway 51, Ridgeland, 601-856-7666) / Good Showing: Gateway Tire and Service Center (3004 J.R. Lynch St., 601-352-3611); Car Care Clinic (multiple locations)

jacksonfreepress.com

Best Liquor/Wine Store: Kats Wine and Spirits

A great massage helps relieve stress and worries. It not only takes the knots out of tense muscles, but also the knots from your thought process, and finding a massage therapist whom you feel comfortable around is priceless. Martha Howell has been voted Best Massage Therapist for two years in a row. Last May, she spent a month in Beijing, China, studying massage techniques. She performs acupressure and deep tissue massages. Each session is specific to each individual, and her work incorporates the connection between mind and body.

A visit with her will have you feeling relaxed and stress free.

—Pamela Hosey

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Best Men’s Clothes: The Rogue and Good Company

Best Tanning Salon: Sun Gallery 2720 N. State St., 601-366-5811

4450 Interstate 55 N., 601-362-6383, therogue.com

If you want a little sun in your life, and don’t want to do it the old-fashioned way or don’t live near a beach, here’s an option. A tanning salon gives you the option to tan whenever you like—as long as it’s during business hours. A professional will conveniently help you obtain the perfect shade of bronze or golden shimmer or any shade. Come out looking beautiful whether alone or with a friend or two.

—Tam Curley Second: Solar 51 (136 S. Pearson Road, Pearl, 601-939-1990; 727 Clinton Parkway, Clinton, 601-925-9747; 398 Highway 51, Suite 130, Ridgeland, 601-898-1003) / Third: Reservoir Tan & Salon (132 Lakeland Heights Blvd., Suite D, Flowood, 601-992-3535) Good Showing: Pear Orchard Tan (305 Towne Center Place, Suite D, Ridgeland, 601-853-6826); SunKissed Tanning (1189 Old Fannin Road, Flowood, 769-798-0705); Palm Beach Tan (multiple locations: see palm beachtan.com)

LYNETTE HANSON

Frank Sinatra, Terrence Howard and “Mad Men”’s Don Draper—what do these men have in common? Style. The welldressed man knows what he likes to wear and wears it with confidence. However, if you’re not sure what to wear, the staff at The Rogue and Good Company will assist you in finding just the right watch or cuff links to go with that Peter Millar sweater or that Ted Baker wool jacket. Voted again as the best location for men’s clothing, The Rogue’s 200 years of combined experience means they know what they are talking about. With a wide range of shoes, suits, casual clothing and accessories; a visit to The Rogue and Good Company will make sure you leave feeling as good as you look.

—Michael Jacome Second: Plato’s Closet (1260 E. County Line Road, Ridgeland, 601-487-8207) / Third: Kinkade’s Fine Clothing (120 W. Jackson St., Suite 2B, Ridgeland, 601-898-0513) / Good Showing: Great Scott (4400 Old Canton Road, Site 101, 601-984-3500); Red Square Clothing Co. (1000 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite 9004, Ridgeland, 601-853-8960); Jos A. Bank (870 Interstate 55 N., 601-366-9711)

Best Art Gallery: Fischer Galleries

3100 N. State St., Suite 101, 601-2919115, fischergalleries.com

Best Yoga Studio: Butterfly Yoga

Founded in 2002 by Scotta Brady, Butterfly Yoga offers Anusara classes. A variety of classes include Vinyasa Flow, Randi Young-Jerome’s Bellydancing, Ronni Mott’s Yoga Over 50 and even a Breakdance-Hybrid Yoga class. Butterfly’s instructors patiently work with every students’ individual capabilities to ensure a safe and sane practice—and it’s a fun group to hand out with. Try it.

—Pamela Hosey Second: JoyFlow Yoga (7048 Old Canton Road, Suite 2F, 601-613-4317) / Third: Courthouse (46 Northtown Drive, 601-956-1300) / Good Showing: Studio OM (665 Duling Ave., 601-2096325); Tara Yoga (200 Park Circle, Suite 4, Flowood, 601-932-7700)

Best Musical Instruments: Morrison Brothers Music

COURTESY MORRISON BROTHERS MUSIC

127 Dyess Road, Ridgeland, 601-956-013, mobro.net

January 25 - 31, 2012

Second: Southern Breeze Gallery (1000 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite 5005, Ridgeland, 601607-4147) / Third: Brown’s Fine Art and Framing (630 Fondren Place, 601-982-4844) / Good Showing: Mississippi Museum of Art (380 S. Lamar St., 601-960-1515); Fondren Art Gallery (3030 N. State St. 601-981-9222); Gallery 119 (119 S. President St., 601-969-4091)

I’ve got a confession to make. Sometimes I like to crank the music in my car and rock out “Welcome to the Jungle,” fantasizing about my imaginary life as a rock star. But then I snap back to reality and rush to get my son to Cub Scouts.

But it’s never too late to strap on a guitar or pick up some drumsticks. Morrison Brothers Music offers lessons in everything from the piano and guitar to the drums, violin and fiddle. With an abundant supply of guitars, keyboards, drum components, DJ equipment and band and orchestra pieces to choose from, and the equipment to record it, you really do not have an excuse for hiding your inner artist.

—Michael Jacome

With five generations dedicated to floral arrangement, Greenbrook Flowers has elevated the practice to an art form. A few years ago, Greenbrook’s owners started a holiday: Good Neighbor Day. On the first Wednesday of each September, every customer is given a dozen free roses to give to the people they care about. With more and more flowers being handed out each year, Good Neighbor Day is now celebrated among florists as a national holiday. Greenbrook is the place to go for flowers for any occasion, and everyone has a Greenbrook story. Its masterful arrangements and neighborly attitude have won the folks at Greenbrook six consecutive Best of Jackson titles.

—Sadaaf Mamoon

Second: Mississippi Music (1001 Sara Lane, Flowood, 601-922-1200) / Third: Fondren Guitars

by Patrick Harkins (607 Fondren Place, 601-362-0313) / Good Showing: Guitar Center (1189 E. County Line Road, 601-956-8053); Lakeland Music (5200 Highway 25, Flowood, 601-9920089); Allegrezzo Piano Company (608 Highway 51, Suite A, Ridgeland, 601-856-2524)

Second: A Daisy a Day Flowers & Gifts (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 194, 601-982-4438) / Third: Drake’s Designs (1491 Canton Mart Road, 601-957-6983) / Good Showing: Mostly Martha’s (353 Highway 51, Ridgeland, 601-956-1474); Whitley’s Flowers (740 Lakeland Drive, 601-3628844); Green Oak (5009 Old Canton Road, 601-956-5017)

Best Nature Walk: Natchez Trace

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COURTESY FISCHER GALLERIES

3025 N. State St., 601-981-6449, butterflyyoga.net

Art in Jackson isn’t hard to come by. We have plenty of local art galleries and artists who are constantly presenting new work. Fondren is home to a few, including Fischer Galleries. Marcy Nessel opened Fischer Galleries about four years ago. She probably didn’t know that she was opening one of the best art galleries in Jackson. When clients and art viewers walk in the door, Nessel greats them warmly and can tell them all about the featured artists in her gallery, such as Richard Kelso and Charles Carraway.

Fischer Galleries has monthly gallery shows to exhibit new work from contemporary southern artists. February’s show features various self-portraits from artists such as Mathew Puckett. It opens Feb. 9 at 5 p.m.

—Briana Robinson

If you really want to get away from it all, head up the Natchez Trace for breathtaking scenery and peaceful solitude. There are several nice places to picnic and explore closer to town, but if you really need to get away, head up to the exotic Cypress Swamp trail. If you’ve got more time on your hands, journey down to Rocky Springs where you can splash in the stream or wander through a wooded ghost town. Close to home or farther afield, the Natchez Trace offers scenic beauty at every turn.

—Kelly Bryan Smith Second: LeFleur’s Bluff / Mayes Lake (2140 Riverside Drive, 601-987-3923) / Third: Clinton Nature Center (617 Dunton Road, 601-926-1104) / Fourth: Mississippi Museum of Natural Science (2148 Riverside Drive, 601-576-6000); Belhaven University and Neighborhood (1500 Peachtree St., 601-968-5940)

Best Flower Shop: Greenbrook Flowers 705 N. State St., 601-519-4735, greenbrookflower.com

Best Playground/Park: Laurel Street Park 1841 Laurel St., Belhaven

Laurel Street Park is a treasure. Where else in town can you go for play dates, Easteregg hunts, birthday parties, picnics, a shaded sandbox, kickball games and running into friends? You can race on a zipline, drive a fire truck or even muck around in some mud, one of our family’s favorite activities. Jackson has many lovely places for children to get fresh air and sunshine, but what makes Laurel Street Park stand out even above the amazing new Winner’s Circle Park is its close-knit community vibe.

—Kelly Bryan Smith Second: Winner’s Circle Park (100 Winners Circle Drive, Flowood) / Third: LeFleur’s Bluff State Park (2140 Riverside Drive, 601-987-3923) / Fourth: Strawberry Patch Park (271 St. Augustine Drive, Madison); Liberty Park (810 Madison Ave., Madison); Parham Bridges (5055 Old Canton Road)

Thanks For Voting Us One Of The Best: Places for Dance Lesson • Places to Dance

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BEST OF JACKSON

FINALIST? DIDN’T GET AN INVITE TO THE BEST OF JACKSON PARTY?

SUNDAY, JANUARY 29, 2012 EMAIL: MARISSA@JACKSONFREEPRESS.COM OR CALL 601-362-6121 EXT 23

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31

Best Yoga Instructor: Jean Powers, The Courthouse

Best Tattoo/Piercing Parlor: Squench’s Tattoos and Body Piercing

46 Northtown Drive, 601-956-1300, mscourthouse.com

3780 Interstate 55 S., 601-372-2800, squenchstattoos.com

Jean Powers still holds the No. 1 spot for her various yoga styles including Iyenger, Power and Vinyasa Flow. Jean’s passion for yoga is infectious. She inspires others with her story. She invites her students to stay present, be real and breathe. She brings playful humor and intuitive insight along with hands on help to create a personal connection. Jean reminds students of what they already know.

—Pamela Hosey

Best Tailor: Custom Tailoring by Al

Best Thrift/Consignment Shop: Repeat Street

Don’t put off custom tailoring services any longer. You may feel that it is only for those with larger financial budgets, but don’t knock it until you try it. Custom tailoring is an art, and Al Guevara has mastered it. From alterations to custom-designed suits and shirts, Al can make your old wedding gown new again and make those short pants just the right length. As the best tailor in the metro area, Custom Tailoring by Al offers garment-care tips and ensures the proper care of items brought in for service.

—Tam Curley

If you want a great selection and good prices on your used clothing, go no further than Repeat Street, the Ridgeland consignment store that has it all. Don’t be fooled by its nondescript exterior. Inside, you will find a one-of-a-kind wonderland of fashionable and funky items that have already gotten a test drive from someone else. My personal favorite Repeat Street find is a pair of brown velvet Gap pants that I purchased as a leap of faith when I was pregnant with my son. They didn’t fit at the time, but now they fit just like they were made for me.

—Kelly Bryan Smith

2771 Old Canton Road, 601-362-8484, circaliving.com

With chain stores around each corner, how could one possibly find something oneof-a-kind? Well, circa. Urban Artisan Living sells artsy furniture, clothing and much more.

The handcrafted products have a modern twist. The store has several categories of items: circa.homestead, circa.body, circa.wear, circa.vibe, circa.garden and circa.taste. Since opening circa. in 2010, owners Craig and Michele Escude have provided Jackson with functional art such as furniture, lamps, clothing and accessories.

—Briana Robinson

community services

The Metro Jackson Interfaith ministry that helps provide over 650 homeless and in-need people a day with food, shelter, clothing and love.

Second: Orange Peel (422 Mitchell Ave., 601-364-9977) / Third: Plato’s Closet (1260 E. County Line Road, 601-487-8207) / Fourth: Bargain Boutique (5070 Parkway Drive, 601-991-0500); N.U.T.S. (114 Millsaps Ave., 601-355-7458); Goodwill (multiple locations)

4500 Interstate 55 N., 601-366-1849, commissarytoys.com

It seems as if children’s toys are disposable plastic objects that quickly break or get lost. That is not the case at Highland Village’s Olde Tyme Commissary, the place to go for classic, well-made children’s toys that you will want to save for the grandkids, too. From wooden trains to Erector sets, from Madame Alexander dolls to play kitchens, Olde Tyme Commissary has something for every child.

—Kelly Bryan Smith Second: Helen’s Young Ages (4750 Interstate 55 N., 601-362-0317) / Third: Pop Fizz (1481 Canton Mart Road, Suite E, 601-977-1000), Fourth: Sweet Dreams (1896 Main St., 601-856-2080); Leap Frog (104 Village Blvd., 601-898-0727); Lemon Meringue (Renaissance at Colony Park, 1000 Highland Colony Parkway, 601-853-2611)

Thank You for voting us 2012 finalists:

Best Non-profit in Jackson Winner for the years of 2004 • 2005 • 2006 • 2007 • 2008 • 2009 • 2010

We really appreciate your support and look forward to making 2012 our best year yet.

Stewpot Community Services, Inc. - Metro Jackson’s Inter-Faith Ministry 1100 West Capitol Street, Jackson, MS 39203 • 601-353-2759

JERRICK SMITH

Second: Mississippi Craft Center (950 Rice Road, Ridgeland, 601-856-7546) / Third: Apple Annie’s (106 Autumn Ridge, Suite 6, Brandon, 601-992-9925 and 1896 Main St. Suite D, Madison, 601-853-8911) / Good Showing: Pine Cone (1220 E. Northside Drive, Suite 220, 601-7131421); Turkoyz (4500 Interstate 55 N., 601-981-4000); Persnickety Home Accents and Fine Gifts (2078 Main St., Madison, 601-853-9595)

STEWPOT

626 Ridgewood Road, 601-605-9393, repeatstreet.net

Best Place to Buy Kids Clothes and Toys: Olde Tyme Commissary

Best Unique Gifts: circa. Urban Artisan Living

January 25 - 31, 2012

Second: Black Diamond, formerly The Ink Spot (5015 Interstate 55 N., 601-982-9437) / Third: House of Pain Tattoo (Swinging Bridge Shopping Center, 22 Holiday Rambler Lane, Suite 300, Byram, 601-321-9040) / Good Showing: Twiztid Images (557 Highway 49 S., Richland, 601664-0000); Eternal Body Art (3611 Interstate 55 S., 601-346-5963); Animal House Tattoo Co. (420 N. Bierdeman Road, Pearl, 601-933-1120)

1000 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite 4004, Ridgeland, 601-607-3443; 258 Dogwood Blvd., Flowood, 601-992-1373, customtailoringbyalofms.com

Second: Finishing Touch (4551 Office Park Drive, 601-362-5288) / Third: Michael Armstrong of Tom James Company (1775 Lelia Drive, Suite D, 601-713-2034) / Good Showing: Golden Touch (5355 Executive Place, 601-362-6790); Tailor You (6800 Old Canton Road, Ridgeland, 601-991-3300)

32

AMILE WILSON

Second: Scotta Brady (Butterfly Yoga, 3025 N. State St., 601-5942313) / Third: Tara Blumenthal (Energy in Motion, 200 Park Circle, Suite 4, Flowood, 601-932-7700) / Good Showing: Debi Lewis (Joyflow Yoga, 7048 Old Canton Road, Suite 2F, Ridgeland, 601-613-4317); Katie Cassady (Butterfly Yoga, 3025 N., State St., 601-981-6449); Georgette Turner (Matworks Yoga and Pilates Club, 322 Highway 80 E., Suite 8, Clinton, 601-624-6356 )

Squench and his team of ink and piercing specialists are much too professional to let the return of Jason Thomas (owner of The Ink Spot/Black Diamond) have an effect on them. Yes, he has returned and jumped from a respectable fourth place to a dangerous second place in the course of a year. However, the commitment to the craft matched with more than 25 years in this business leaves all challengers found wanting.

The Greeks had Sparta. The Navy has the SEALS. And the tattoo world has Squench’s Tattoos and Body Piercing—the best in their field. Whatever your style, budget or mood, Squench and family will make sure you leave happy.

—Michael Jacome

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jacksonfreepress.com

Best Chef: Craig Noone

The Craig Noone ‘Rock It Out’ Best New Chef Award: Tom Ramsey

Parlor Market (115 W. Capitol St., 601-360-0090, parlormarket.com)

Underground 119, 119 S. President St., 601-3522322, underground119.com

Just weeks before Parlor Market impresario and star chef Craig Noone died tragically in a car accident, food writer Tom Ramsey wrote one of his typically delightful, high-energy stories about PM’s first birthday.

In the JFP piece, he mentioned that I had introduced him to Craig the year before.

I was stunned when I read that; it’s not like I had known Craig that long myself. Girl-about-town Julie Skipper had introduced me to him one night outside Hal & Mal’s, telling me what exciting ideas Craig had for a restaurant in downtown Jackson. I soon told Tom—apparently an excellent chef in his own right— about Craig, and they started hanging out and conspiring, talking about whatever chefs talk about. My favorite memory involving the two of them was a night that Tom, with the help of other chefs including the also-remarkable Dan Blumenthal of the Mangia Bene dynasty, gathered in a friend’s beautiful home in Belhaven to cook up a delicious, creative meal and then serve it to us all—while being filmed for a cooking-show pilot.

By that time, Tom was close to fully remaking himself into a chef—apparently his first love—from his former life as a lobbyist and investment baker. Because he was freelancing for the JFP and BOOM Jackson, writing some of the best food pieces we’ve run, I watched him morph into a chef, even before he had an official gig. You could have called him the chef-about-town, I suppose. At that time, he was teaching cooking lessons through his business, Ivy & Devine, and becoming the person I suspect he’d always wanted to be: He now refers to himself on his website as “a food writer, media personality and general bon vivant.”

What is so apropos about readers voting Tom the best new chef in Jackson—a new award in honor of our late friend and visionary Craig Noone—is that Tom was the chief chronicler of the foodies movement that Craig and the other inspiring young chefs at Parlor Market really helped bring to Jackson. As the PM crew became rock stars, Tom wrote about it, in turn helping their celebrity grow. And along the way, he became a celebrity chef himself—even though he initially was a man without a restaurant. I remember wondering when one of the local restaurants would realize that it was his time in their kitchen. Then lo and behold, suddenly in 2011, he became the chef at Underground 119.

There are simply amazing chefs among the finalists, and several of them (like Ryan Bell and Jesse Houston) were part of that original PM posse that made being a chef one of the coolest jobs in Mississippi. Every chef on this list deserves a shout-out, but Tom gets extra credit for deciding to follow his heart a little later in his life’s journey toward what he does best.

—Donna Ladd Second: Jesse Houston (Parlor Market, 115 W. Capitol St., 601-360-0090) / Third: Alex Eaton (Table 100, 100 Ridge Way, Flowood, 601-420-4202 / Good Showing: Mike Roemhild (Table 100, 100 Ridge Way, Flowood, 601-420-4202 / Ryan Bell (Parlor Market 115 W. Capitol St., 601360-0090) / Robert Rushton (Walker’s Drive-In, 3016 N. State St., 601-982-2633 / Nick Wallace (King Edward Hotel, 235 W. Capitol St., 601-353-5464

Second Place: Dan Blumenthal (BRAVO! Italian Restaurant & Bar, 4500 Interstate 55 N., Frontage Road, 601-982-8111; plus all Mangia Bene restaurants) / Third: Derek Emerson (Walker’s DriveIn, 3016 N. State St., 601-982-2633; Local 463, 121 Colony Crossing Way, Madison, 601-7077684) / Good showing: Tom Ramsey (Underground 119, 119 S. President St., 601-352-2322), Ryan Bell and Jesse Houston (Parlor Market, 115 W. Capitol St., 601-360-0090)

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At Parlor Market, downtown Jackson’s history combines with a vision for its future as an epicenter of culinary innovation. In a restaurant that was the dream of late Chef Craig Noone, diners enjoy dishes that make use of locally sourced ingredients and regional ethnic influences on a menu that changes several times a year. The nightly wild game special is a consistent favorite, as are fresh oysters from the raw bar. Drinks are also a treat, as the extensive drink book features Mississippi’s first and largest pre-Prohibition and Prohibition-era cocktail menu. From the chefs to the bartenders to the servers, the entire staff strives to make each meal an experience that draws you in and tells a story.

—Julie Skipper Best Place for Cocktails Second: Julep Restaurant and Bar (4500 Interstate 55 N. Frontage Road, 601-362-1411) / Third: BRAVO! Italian Restaurant & Bar (4500 Interstate 55 N. Frontage Road, 601-982-8111) / Good Showing: Mint the Restaurant (1000 Highland Colony Parkway, Ridgeland, 601-898-6468); Babalu Tacos and Tapas (622 Duling Ave., 601-366-5757); Table 100 (100 Ridge Way, Flowood, 601-420-4202)

COURTESY PARLOR MARKET

January 25 - 31, 2012

Best Restaurant, Best Place for Cocktails, Most Innovative Menu, Best Place to Eat When Someone Else Pays: Parlor Market 115 W. Capitol St., 601-360-0090, parlormarket.com Most Innovative Menu Second: Babalu Tacos and Tapas (622 Duling Ave., 601-366-5757) / Third: Table 100 (100 Ridge Way, Flowood, 601-420-4202) / Good showing: Underground 119 (119 S. President St., 601-3522322); Mint the Restaurant (1000 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite 5002, 601-898-6468); Julep Restaurant and Bar (4500 Interstate 55 N. Frontage Road, Suite 105, 601-362-8111) Best Place to Eat When Someone Else Pays Second: Walker’s Drive-In (3016 N. State St., 601-982-2633) / Third: Char (4500 Interstate 55 N. Frontage Road, 601-956-9562) / Good showing: Nick’s (3000 Old Canton Road, 601-981-8017); Shapley’s Restaurant (868 Centre St., Ridgeland, 601-957-3753); Tico’s Steak House (1536 E. County Line Road, Ridgeland, 601-956-1030) Best Restaurant Second: Walker’s Drive-In (3016 N. State St., 601-982-2633) / Third: Table 100 (100 Ridge Way, Flowood, 601-420-4202) / Good showing: Julep (4500 Interstate 55 N. Frontage Road, 601-3621411); Char (4500 Interstate 55 N. Frontage Road, 601-956-9562); Sportsman’s Lodge (1220 E. Northside Drive, 601-366-4551)

COURTESY TOM RAMSEY

JARO VACEK

It might seem odd to think a chef could catalyze a movement. But Jackson native Craig Noone was not just any chef. The visionary behind Parlor Market built a restaurant and a community of restaurant-industry people and lovers of Jackson. His passion for all things local extended beyond food, to the city and her people, and infused everything he did.

After graduating from Mississippi College, Craig left to pursue his culinary education. But when he heard of Jackson’s renaissance—particularly the reopening of the King Edward Hotel—he knew it was time to return. He convinced rock-star chefs he had worked with in Texas to move to Mississippi and help him open his dream restaurant downtown. “I’m a great hirer,” he liked to say about his team.

Craig’s concept for Parlor Market included paying tribute to Mississippi’s diverse cultures and ethnic influences, with an emphasis on ingredients from local farmers and deep-rooted tradition, drawing inspiration from fresh, locally sourced products and using traditional and modern cooking techniques to create a constantly changing menu that tells a story.

In developing the menu for Parlor Market, the “crazy local” experience he wanted for diners extended to pairing southern wine and craft beers with southern food and getting to know the people from whom he sourced all of his products. He also conducted extensive research on the Parlor Market building’s history so that its interior design reflected the property’s past uses: he wanted everything about PM to “tell a story”: “Southerners are storytellers, and I want people to have that experience through dining,” he explained.

Craig was the main character in the story: He effortlessly made rounds at tables in the dining room, speaking to each patron and ensuring that they were taken care of. That spirit of wanting the best for people didn’t stop with his own customers; it extended to the broader culinary community. Craig helped other local restaurants and farmers—through collaboration on events and ideas, helping them find new talent, supporting farmers markets—all while continually pushing everyone to strive for excellence and innovation. Constantly striving to be the best and inspiring those around him to do the same, while truly caring for people is what made him not just a visionary, but a great leader.

Chef Noone’s life was tragically cut short in a car accident Oct. 14, 2011, just a few weeks after Parlor Market celebrated its first anniversary. The restaurant continues to carry out his vision. Of his career, Chef Noone said, “I want to make people happy.” The Parlor Market family will continue to do just that.

—Julie Skipper

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Thanks for

35

Best Greek Diner/Restaurant, Best Outdoor Dining, Best Downtown Lunch: Keifer’s

Best Breakfast on the Run, Best Deli/Local Sandwich: Broad Street Baking Company and Café

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

Best Greek Diner/Restaurant Second: Aladdin Mediterranean Grill (730 Lakeland Drive, 601-366-6033; 163 Ridgeway, Suite E, Flowood, 601-992-7340) / Third: Kristos (971 Madison Ave., Madison, 601-605-2266); Krilakis (207 W. Jackson St., Suite D, Ridgeland, 601-790-9463); Bill’s Greek Tavern (4760 McWillie Drive, 601-982-9295); Vasilio’s (828 Highway 51, Madison, 601-853-0028) / Good Showing: Wraps (1220 E. Northside Drive, 601-366-2006) Best Outdoor Dining Second: Babalu Tacos and Tapas (622 Duling Ave., 601-366-5757) / Third: Que Será Será (2801 N. State St., 601-981-2520) / Good Showing: Burgers and Blues (1060 E. County Line Road, Suite 22, Ridgeland, 601-899-0038); Walker’s Drive-In (3016 N. State St., 601-982-2633); Sal and Mookie’s New York Style Pizza and Ice Cream Joint (565 Taylor St., 601-368-1919) Best Downtown Lunch Second: Parlor Market (115 W. Capitol St., 601-373-9841) / Third: Elite Restaurant (141 E. Capitol St., 601-352-5606) / Good Showing: Mayflower Café (123 W. Capitol St., 601-355-4122); Two Sister’s Kitchen (707 N. Congress St., 601-353-1180)

Best Sit-Down Breakfast/Brunch, Best Plate Lunch: Primos Café and Bake Shop

January 25 - 31, 2012

COURTESY PRIMOS

2323 Lakeland Drive, 601-936-3701 and 515 Lake Harbour Drive, Ridgeland, 601-898-3600, primoscafe.com

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Primos Café first opened its doors as a bakery in 1929.

Although the café has moved and been remodeled several times, it still offers amazing food. I suggest the veggie scrambler and cheese grits along with their signature biscuits. Primos also offers a choice of two blue-plate specials Monday through Friday that includes traditional southern fare like smothered pork chops, turkey and dressing, and chopped steak and gravy. The delicious breakfast, lunch, dinner and tempting desserts prove why Jacksonians make Primos a top choice for dining every year.

—Pamela Hosey Best Sit-Down Breakfast Second: Another Broken Egg (1000 Highland Colony Parkway, Ridgeland, 601-790-9170) / Third: Broad Street Baking Company and Café (4465 Interstate 55 N., 601-362-2900) / Good Showing: Mimi’s Family and Friends (3139 N. State St., 601-366-6111); Julep Restaurant and Bar (1305 E. Northside Drive, 601-362-1411); Char (4500 Interstate 55 N., 601-956-9562) Best Plate Lunch Second: Walker’s Drive-In (3016 N. State St., 601- 982-2633) / Third: The Trace Grill (554 Highway 51 N, Suite. F, Ridgeland, 601-853-1014) / Good Showing: Cherokee Inn (1410 Old Square Road, 601-362-6388); McDade’s (Multiple Locations); Grant’s Kitchen (2847 Lakeland Drive, Flowood, 601-665-4764)

Broad Street Baking Company and Café is nestled in Banner Hall and is easily accessible from Interstate 55. You can start your day off on the lighter side with your choice of an omelet, homemade granola or a minted fruit salad. If you are looking for a heartier breakfast, choose the breakfast burrito or Belgian waffles. At lunchtime, return to Broad Street for your favorite sandwich, po-boy, salad or wrap. The specials of the day are posted on Broad Street’s website so that you can review and make a decision before hand or pick up lunch to go. Broad Street is open 7 days a week. Breakfast starts at 7 a.m.

—Adriane Louie COURTESY KEIFERS

It’s Wednesday. You’ve been at work since 8 a.m., and it’s lunch time. The lines on your spreadsheet are little more than a blur, and you need a break from the daily grind. Thankfully, the most popular lunch spot downtown is nearby on Congress Street. There, across from the governor’s mansion is a hole-in-the-wall named Keifer’s. You place your order for a wrap and cottage fries. Like a well-oiled machine, the assembly line behind the counter prepares your meal. You find a seat and take a bite of Greek deliciousness with a southern flair. Sure, there may be a whole afternoon of work ahead of you, but for the moment, Keifer’s provides a comforting and delicious respite.

But Keifer’s isn’t just about lunch. In this year’s Best of Jackson awards, the venerable Poplar Boulevard landmark has again garnered the title of best outdoor dining. Even with a move to a new building on the opposite side of Poplar, Keifer’s hasn’t missed a beat. This proves the power of its feta sauce. However, there’s a plethora of Greek favorites from which to choose. Hummus and falafels, souvlakis and Polish dogs, and of course, the classic gyro. It’s been more than 30 years since Rick Olsen and Paula Cole opened Keifer’s, but it remains Jackson’s favorite for Greek cuisine.

—Andrew Dunaway

4465 Interstate 55 N., Suite 101, 601-362-2900, broadstbakery.com

Best Breakfast on the Run Second: Beagle Bagel (4500 Interstate 55 N., 769-251-1892; 898 Avery Blvd., Ridgeland, 601956-1773; 100 Mannsdale Park Drive, Madison, 601-856-4377) / Third: Primos Café and Bake Shop (2323 Lakeland Drive, Flowood, 601-936-3398; 515 Lake Harbour Drive, Ridgeland, 601898-3600) / Good Showing: Mimi’s Family & Friends (3139 N. State St., 601-366-6111); Scurlock’s Donut Shop and Eatery (125 S. Congress St., Suite 106, 601-326-8520) and Sneaky Beans (2914 N. State St., 601-487-6349) Best Deli/Local Sandwich Second: Newk’s Express Café (multiple locations, newkscafe.com) / Third: Basil’s (2906 N. State St., Suite 104, 601-982-2100; 904 E. Fortification St., Suite B, 601-352-2002; 2906 N. State St., 601-982-2100; 120 N. Congress St., 601-944-9888) / Good Showing: Beagle Bagel (4500 Interstate 55 N., 769-251-1892; 898 Avery Blvd., Ridgeland, 601-956-1773; 100 Mannsdale Park Drive, Madison, 601-856-4377); McAlister’s (multiple locations, mcalistersdeli.com)

Best Italian, Best Place for Pasta: Amerigo Italian Restaurant

6592 Old Canton Road, 601-977-0563, amerigo.net

It is no surprise that Amerigo is a perennial Jackson favorite. Conveniently located, Amerigo offers fine dining in a romantic atmosphere at a reasonable price. For special occasions and everyday delights, Amerigo is the place to go for a varied menu that includes Amerigo’s famous cheese fritters, gourmet salads, brick-oven pizzas, seafood pastas, and amazing entrees such as eggplant—or chicken—Parmesan. Even the most basic pasta pomodoro is outstanding. But be certain to save room for dessert, because you won’t want to miss the tiramisu. Trust me.

—Kelly Bryan Smith Best Italian Second: BRAVO! Italian Restaurant and Bar (4500 Interstate 55 N., 601-982-8111) / Third: Biaggi’s (970 Highland Colony Parkway, 601-354-6600) / Good Showing: Cerami’s (5417 Lakeland Drive, 601-919-2829); Fratesi’s (910 Lake Harbour Drive, 601-956-2929); Rossini (207 W. Jackson St., Ridgeland, 601-856-9696) Best Place for Pasta Second BRAVO! Italian Restaurant and Bar (4500 Interstate 55 N., 601-982-8111) / Third: Cerami’s (5417 Lakeland Drive, 601-919-2829) / Good Showing: Biaggi’s (Highland Colony Parkway., 601-354-6600); Fratesi’s (910 Lake Harbour Drive, 601-956-292); Rossini (207 W. Jackson St., 601-856-9696)

Best Chinese Restaurant: Mr. Chen’s Authentic Chinese Cooking 5465 Interstate 55 N., 601-978-1865

Last year for my birthday, I wanted to go out for Chinese, and I had been hearing great things about Mr. Chen’s. All the rave reviews were right on the money. The food at Mr. Chen’s was fresh, flavorful and satisfied my craving for authentic Chinese food. While our food was being prepared, my son and I walked around the market attached to the restaurant, where we spotted things like nori, bamboo shoots, bok choy, bean sprouts, ginger, jasmine rice, sake, soju, sweet chili sauce, tobi nuts and Chinese pastries and candies. We’ve been back several times since. My favorite dishes are the beef chow fun, kung pao chicken and General Tso’s chicken. They also carry a variety of refreshing iced flavored-milk teas and fruit slushes (the passion fruit flavor is my current obsession). —ShaWanda Jacome Second: Ichiban Sushi and Chinese Buffet (359 Ridgeway, Flowood, 601-919-8879) / Third: P.F. Chang’s China Bistro (910 Highland Colony Parkway, Ridgeland, 601-605-4282) / Good Showing: King Buffet (6380 Ridgewood Court Drive, 601-956-6700); Five Happiness Chinese Restaurant (2931 McDowell Road Extension, 601-371-8765); Ding How Asian Bistro (6955 Old Canton Road, Ridgeland, 601-956-1717)

Best Barista: Caitlin McNally

Best Meal Under $10, Best Salad or Salad Bar: Newk’s Express Café

Sneaky Beans, 2914 N. State St., 601-487-6349

Multiple Locations, newkscafe.com

Caitlin McNally is probably the nicest barista around. She never pressures me and never makes me feel silly for ordering a frozen drink when it’s cold. She makes me believe she’s excited to see me, even if we’ve never been formally introduced. McNally also makes an amazing latte and the best caramel macchiato ever.

But with all the great folks working at Sneaky Beans and Cups, it’s hard to not have a great barista serve your coffee in Jackson.

—Holly Perkins

Meal Under $10 Second: Keifer’s (710 Poplar Blvd., 601-355-6825; 120 N. Congress St., 601-353-4976) Third: Basil’s (2906 N. State St., Suite 104, 601-982-2100; 904 E. Fortification St., Suite B, 601-3522002; 120 N. Congress St., 601-944-9888) / Good Showing: OEC Japanese Express (Multiple Locations); Primos Café and Bake Shop (2323 Lakeland Drive, 601-936-3701)

Second Place: Leslee Foukal (Sneaky Beans) / Third Place (tie): Cody Cox, (Cups, Fondren) Eamonn Cottrell (Cups, Fondren) / Good Showing: Byron Knight (Sneaky Beans), Kirby Coutch (Cups, Methodist Rehabilitation Center), India Jade Clark (Cups, Downtown)

Best Salad or Salad Bar: Second: Jason’s Deli (1067 E. County Line Road, 601-206-9191) / Third: Mazzio’s (4415 Robinson Road, 601-922-2477) / Good Showing: Cool Water Café (1011 Lake Harbour Drive, TOWN?, 601-956-6332); High Noon Café (2807 Old Canton Road, 601-366-1513); Room Service (4107 Northview Drive, Suite B1, 601-362-4617)

Best Gumbo, Best Red Beans & Rice: Que Será Será 2801 N. State St., 601-981-2520, queserams.com

For the past seven out of eight years, Que Será Será has held the title of Jackson’s best gumbo and best red beans & rice. What’s the secret to its success? Maybe it’s the consistent quality of the roux. Maybe it’s the sheer quantity as every bowl of creole goodness arrives overflowing with rice, andouille, oysters, crab and shrimp. Maybe it’s a secret that the Noble family will take to their graves. No matter the reason, there’s no arguing that this Fondren landmark has a lock on these Louisiana classics.

—Andrew Dunaway

Best Bakery, Best Place to Buy Cakes: Campbell’s Bakery 3013 N. State St., 601-362-4628, campbellsbakery.ms

Best Place to Buy Cakes Second: Primos Café and Bake Shop (2323 Lakeland Drive, Flowood, 601-936-3701; 515 Lake Harbour Drive, Ridgeland, 601-898-3600) / Third: That Special Touch (2769 Old Brandon Road, Pearl, 601-932-5223) / Good Showing: Fat Cake Guy (5352 Lakeland Drive, Suite 2000, Flowood, 601-992-9623); Dream Cakes (1006 Top St., Suite D, Flowood, 601-932-7800); Beagle Bagel (898 Avery Blvd., 601-956-1773; 100 Mannsdale Park Drive, Suite 2, Madison, 601-8564377; 4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 145, 769-251-1892)

Best Place for Dessert: Char

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

You might be attracted to Char’s menu of surf-and-turf specialties or their gourmet salads, but Char is worth visiting for its dessert menu alone. Grab a date or a friend, or even just take yourself to enjoy one of its outstanding upscale desserts. Chocolate lovers, it doesn’t get much better than the rich Chocolate Express. My personal favorite is the pecan caramel butter crunch, an amazing ice cream-topped cake that is the most delicious dessert around. Homemade pecan pie and an apple-cranberry crisp round out this all-star dessert menu.

—Kelly Bryan Smith Second: Amerigo Italian Restaurant (6592 Old Canton Road, 601-977-0563) / Third: Parlor Market (115 W. Capitol St., 601-360-0090) / Fourth: Sal and Mookie’s New York Style Pizza and Ice Cream Joint (565 Taylor St., 601-386-1919); BRAVO! Italian Restaurant and Bar (4500 Interstate 55 N., 601-982-8111); Primos Café and Bake Shop (2323 Lakeland Drive, 601-936-3398)

Best Red Beans & Rice Second: Hal & Mal’s (200 S. Commerce St., 601-948-0888) / Third: Fat Tuesday’s (6923 Old Canton Road, Suite 105, Ridgeland, 601-956-2971) / Good Showing: Georgia Blue (111 Colony Crossing, Madison, 601-898-3330); Rooster’s (2906 N. State St., 601-982-2001); Cherokee Drive Inn (1410 Old Square Road, 601-362-6388)

Best Asian: Pan-Asia

720 Harbour Pointe Crossing, Ridgeland, 601-956-2958, pan-asia.com

Pan-Asia has consistently provided an “Asian fusion cuisine” concept that is a step above the rest while providing a modern Zen atmosphere. Feast on one of its signature dishes: firecracker shrimp, panko soft-shell crab or roast duck breast. The menu boasts cuisine from Thai, Chinese, Vietnamese, Japanese and Indian-inspired ingredients. While there, order a cocktail from the Gong Bar, which offers some interesting libations like the Fortune Cookie (Godiva white, Smirnoff vanilla and white crème de cacao served with a chocolate-covered cookie). Pan-Asia also has banquet facilities available. —Pamela Hosey Second: Thai House (1405 Old Square Road, 601-982-9991) / Third: Saigon (2640 Lakeland Drive, Flowood, 601-420-4848) / Good Showing: Fusion (1002 Treetops Blvd., Flowood, 601664-7588); Spice Avenue (4711 Interstate 55 N., 601-982-0890); P.F. Chang’s (910 Highland Colony Parkway, Ridgeland, 601-605-4282)

Best Barbecue: Hickory Pit

1491 Canton Mart Road, 601-956-7079

My introduction to the Hickory Pit was the intense, tangy smell of smoke and meat that enticed me as I was leaving a nearby business on Old Canton Road. It was no surprise to me that Hickory Pit took the top spot in local barbecue places for the fifth straight year.

It offers barbecued chicken, pork and beef plates along with burgers, sandwiches, salads and po-boys. As sides, you can get beans, fries, slaw, Texas toast or salad. The Hickory Pit also caters, so you can order the Brunswick stew by the gallon and a party pack of ribs for the Super Bowl. For dessert, try a homemade Hershey’s Bar, lemon or pecan pie or carrot cake. Look for Hickory Pit’s menu on the JFP menu page.

—Brett Benson Second: E.& L. Barbecue (1111 Bailey Ave., 601-355-5035) / Third: Lumpkins BBQ (182 Raymond Road, 601-373-7707) / Good Showing: Sonny’s Real Pit Bar-B-Q (2603 Highway 80 W., 601-355-7434); Chimneyville (970 High St., 601-354-4665); Haute Pig (1856 Main St., Madison, 601-853-8538)

jacksonfreepress.com

Best Bakery Second: Broad Street Baking Company and Café (4465 Interstate 55 N., Suite 101, 601-3622900) / Third: Primos Café and Bake Shop (2323 Lakeland Drive, Flowood, 601-936-3398; 515 Lake Harbor Drive, Ridgeland, 601-898-3600) / Good Showing: Crazy Cat Bakers (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 173, 601-362-7448); Corner Bakery Café (108 Market St., Flowood, 601-9199797; 149 Grandview Blvd., Madison, 601-607-7377); Great Harvest Bread Company (5006 Parkway Drive, 601-956-4406; 500 Highway 51, Ridgeland, 601-856-3313)

Best Gumbo Second: Hal & Mal’s (200 S. Commerce St., 601-948-0888) / Third: Char (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 142, 601-956-9562) / Good Showing: Fat Tuesday’s (6923 Old Canton Road, Suite 105, Ridgeland, 601-956-2971); Table 100 (100 Ridge Way, Flowood, 601-420-4202); Broad Street Baking Company and Café (4465 Interstate 55 N., Suite 101, 601-362-2900)

TATE K NATIONS

Campbell’s Bakery in Fondren is one of the oldest bakeries in the area. On any given day you are likely to find an assortment of decadent desserts in the display case. If you want to satisfy that sweet tooth, Campbell’s is definitely the place. Choose from cupcakes, brownies, a variety of cookies, petit-fours and cannoli. Campbell’s is famous for iced-tea cake cookies. They cost $1.42 each or $16.20 for a dozen. Campbell’s is open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. —Adriane Louie

BRIANA ROBINSON

Two things make Newk’s a staple to Jackson life. The first is its clever plan to replace all the drinking ware in our cabinets with those handy black plastic Newk’s cups. The second is its reputation as a casual, yet stylish, source of fine soups, salads and sandwiches. While there may be fewer “under $10” options on the menu these days, the quality of the café chain’s soups and salads make it worth the extra couple of bucks. If that doesn’t convince you, just check out the daily lunch line for a testament to Newk’s taste and popularity. Now if only there was a way to get them to bring back the Thai pizza …

—Bret Kenyon

37

Best Mexican/Latin Restaurant, Best Margaritas, Best Restaurant for Appetizers: Babalu Tacos and Tapas 622 Duling Ave., 601-366-5757, babalums.com

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Best Mexican/Latin Second: La Cazuela (1401 E. Fortification St., 601-353-3014) / Third: Papitos (111 Colony Crossing Way, Suite 1200, Madison, 601-605-0275) / Good Showing: Las Margaritas Mexican Restaurant (1625 E. County Line Road, Suite 120, Ridgeland, 601-957-7672; 737 Clinton Parkway, Clinton, 601-924-0005); Sombra Mexican Kitchen (The Township at Colony Park, Suite 100, Ridgeland, 601-707-7950); El Potrillo (210 Dogwood Blvd., Flowood, 601-992-9260) Best Margaritas Second: La Cazuela (1401 E. Fortification St., 601-353-3014) / Third: Las Margaritas (1625 E. County Line Road, Suite 120, Ridgeland, 601-957-7672; 737 Clinton Parkway, Clinton, 601924-0005) / Good Showing: Papitos (111 Colony Crossing Way, Suite 1200, Madison, 601605-0275); Sombra Mexican Kitchen (The Township at Colony Park, Suite 100, Ridgeland, 601-707-7950); Cozumel Bar & Grill (823 S. Wheatley St., Ridgeland, 601-991-0577) Restaurant for Appetizers Second: Julep (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 105, 601-362-1411) / Third: Parlor Market (115 W. Capitol St., 601-373-9841) / Good Showing: BRAVO! Italian Restaurant & Bar (4500 Interstate N., Suite 244, 601-982-8111); Underground 119 (119 President St., 601-352-2322); Char (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 142, 601-956-9562)

Best Local Burger: Burgers & Blues

1060 E. County Line Road, Suite 22, Ridgeland, 601-899-0038, burgersblues.com

Since opening in April 2010, Burgers & Blues has made its way to the top of everyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favorite burger-joint list. With live blues and southern rock music every week and a sports bar, this family-friendly restaurant is once again Jacksonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Best Burger place.

The menu is filled with signature burgers such as â&#x20AC;&#x153;The County Line,â&#x20AC;? and customers can choose from 4-ounce, 8-ounce or 16-ounce patties. Also try â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Whammy Challenge,â&#x20AC;? three one-pound patties with all the trimmings, a milkshake and a pound of fries. If you finish this eating challenge in 30 minutes or less, the meal is free, and you get your photo on the Whammy Wall of Fame. â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Briana Robinson Second: Mugshots Grill and Bar (1855 Lakeland Drive, 601-261-3261) / Third: Stamps Superburger (1801 Dalton St., 601-352-4555) / Good Showing: Roosterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s (2906 N. State St., 601-9822001); Cool Alâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s (4654 McWillie Drive, 601-713-3020); Majestic Burger (1491 Canton Mart Road, 601-899-8822)

FILE PHOTO

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When you walk through the doors of Babalu Tacos and Tapas, you almost forget you are in Mississippi. The space is a cross between a Cuban cabana and an industrial New York loft.

There is a casual, but swanky feel to it with its cool colors, understated tables and chairs, exposed ducts and concrete floor, not to mention, the feature wall where old episodes of â&#x20AC;&#x153;I Love Lucyâ&#x20AC;? are shown.

Bill Latham and Al Roberts co-own Babalu and opened its doors in November 2010. Executive Chef David Ferris is the mastermind behind the fresh, colorful and flavorful delights coming from the kitchen.

Tapas are best enjoyed by ordering many different dishes to come together as a full meal. Or you can order a bunch, and everyone at the table can share with one another.

Either way itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a great place to enjoy with a group of friends or family.

The menu includes: Hass avocado guacamole (made at your table), tri-pepper corn tamales, carnitas tacos with roasted peanut slaw, braised beef short ribs over Delta grind grits and Carne La Vaca tacos (rosemary marinated CAB flat iron steak with pico de gallo, salsa roja, cotija cheese). But wait, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget the libations! Choose from the Pepe Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Malley, Baba-Libra, Baba-Rita or the Tamarind margarita. Tamarind is a pod-like fruit that has a floral flavor and is usually found in Mexican snacks and candies. The tamarind extract that is used in the margarita at Babalu is a unique and vibrant twist to this classic drink. â&#x20AC;&#x201D;ShaWanda Jacome

MEDITERRANEAN GRILL

Stop In To See Why We Were Voted One of the Best Salads /Salad Bars in The Metro

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Open for Lunch Sunday - Friday: 11:00am - 2:00pm 1011 Lake Harbour Drive, Ridgeland, MS â&#x20AC;˘ Near the Spillway (601) 956-6332 â&#x20AC;˘ www.coolwatercafe.net

www.thepizzashackjackson.com

Best Pizza 2009-2011

Our Customers Are the Best!

Thanks for Voting us Finalist In:

â&#x20AC;˘ New Restaurants â&#x20AC;˘ Places for Sushi Happy Hour

Mon-Thur | 4-6p Food Specials | 5-6p

Ladies Night

Saturday | 5-7 Buy One Get One Free Neon Drink Specials

We appreciate your your support!

â&#x20AC;˘ Best Pizza â&#x20AC;˘ Wings â&#x20AC;˘ Hangover Food NEW BELHAVEN LOCATION: 925 East Fortification

(in the former FabraCare Building, between Katâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s & Fenianâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) Mon - Thur: 11am-10pm | Fri - Sat: 11am-11pm | Sun: 11am - 9pm 601-352-2001 | thepizzashackjackson.com 2nd Location Now Open Mon - Thur: 11am-9pm |Fri - Sat:11am-10pm | Sun:11am - 7pm 5046 Parkway Drive Colonial Mart Jackson, MS 39211 Off of Old Canton Road | 601-957-1975

jacksonfreepress.com

Thanks for Naming Us One of the Best:

39

Best Mediterranean/African and Best Falafel: Aladdin Mediterranean Grill 730 Lakeland Drive, 601-366-6033; 163 Ridgeway, Suite E, Flowood, 601-992-7340, aladdininjackson.com

Best Mediterranean/African Second: Mediterranean Fish and Grill (6550 Old Canton Road, Ridgeland, 601-956-0082) / Third: Petra Cafe (2741 Old Canton Road, 601-366-0161) / Good Showing: Mezza (1896 Main St., Suite A, Madison, 601-853-0876); Keifer’s (710 Poplar Blvd., 601-355-6825; 120 N. Congress St., 601-353-4976); Abeba Ethiopian Restaurant (3716 Interstate 55 N., Frontage Road, 601713-1500) Best Falafel Second: Keifer’s (710 Poplar Blvd., 601-355-6825; 120 N. Congress St., 601-353-4976) / Third: Petra Cafe (2741 Old Canton Road, 601-366-0161) / Good Showing: Kristos Casual Greek Dining (971 Madison Ave., Madison, 601-605-2266); Mediterranean Fish and Grill (6550 Old Canton Road, Ridgeland, 601-956-0082); Mezza (1896 Main St., Suite A, Madison, 601-853-0876)

Best Beer Selection, Bottled; Best Beer Section, Draft: The Bulldog

January 25 - 31, 2012

FILE PHOTO

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

40

The Bulldog, self-declared “draft freaks,” offers a fun place to drink a beer with friends after work and on the weekends. They have couches to lounge and watch games in one area and a bar area.

Check out their weeknight specials: $2 off select pitchers on Monday, $1 off local pints and $2 off select bottles on Tuesday, free collectable pint glass with every pint you buy on Wednesdays and $2 off micro-brewery pitchers on Thursdays. Happy hour is every day until 7 p.m. with 50 cents off pints, $1 off pitchers, half-priced house wines and a double shot for the price of a single shot.

Choose from more than 60 varieties of beer on tap from the lager, ale, and wheat family originating from places like Germany, Australia, Ireland and Mexico. For the ultimate beer-drinking fan, The Bulldog offers a Beer Journey card. Once you complete your card with all 60 drafts, you’ll go home with some Bulldog swag and be immortalized on the “Adventurers” plaque hanging in the bar.

To help soak up all that beer, the Bulldog offers an extensive menu including finger foods, sandwiches, wraps, salads, burgers, desserts and what they call “Other Grub” and “Fork Food.”

—ShaWanda Jacome Beer Selection, Bottled Second: Martin’s Restaurant & Lounge (214 S. State St., 601-354-9712) / Third: Sal & Mookie’s New York Pizza and Ice Cream Joint (565 Taylor St., 601-365-1919) / Good Showing: Sportsman’s Lodge (1220 E. Northside Drive, Suite 100, 601-366-5441); McDade’s Markets (multiple locations: mcdadesmarkets.com); Fenian’s Pub (901 E. Fortification St., 601-948-0055) Beer Selection, Draft Second: Sal & Mookie’s New York Pizza and Ice Cream Joint (565 Taylor St., 601-365-1919) / Third: Mellow Mushroom (275 Dogwood Blvd., Flowood, 601-992-7499) / Good Showing: The Wing Stop (multiple locations: wingstop.com); Buffalo Wild Wings (808 Lake Harbour Drive, Ridgeland, 601-856-0789); Fenian’s Pub (901 E. Fortification St., 601-948-0055)

SHAWANDA JACOME

When I worked at the JFP, I frequented many of the local eateries in Fondren. One of my regular places was Aladdin. Prior to that, I hadn’t really eaten a lot of Mediterranean food, but once I did, I was hooked.

The menu offers something for literally everyone: meat eaters, vegetarians, kids and even those who want to play it safe. Some of my family’s favorites were the gyro, shish kabab and tilapia plates and meat and vegetable dolmas (stuffed grape leaves). The basmati rice with saffron and sautéed veggies are to die for and complement any dish perfectly. My son is partial to the cheeseburger grilled with Mediterranean spices and Arabic pickles. I would be remiss not to mention the savory falafels (crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside), the mint-flavored sweet tea and the baklava fingers (yummo!). Oh how I miss being able to make that short walk over to Aladdin—the simple joys in life.

—ShaWanda Jacome

Announcing

AJâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Newest Location on Lakeland Drive!

Thanks For Voting Us A Finalist In:

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Best Seafood Restaurant in Mississippiâ&#x20AC;?

-Mississippi Magazine-

â&#x20AC;˘ Place to Buy Cakes â&#x20AC;˘ Breakfast on the Run â&#x20AC;˘ Deli Sandwiches â&#x20AC;˘ Place to Hang Out with a Laptop Place Your Order Now For Valentineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day

233 Ridge Way, Flowood, Ms

601-919-1900

www.thebeaglebagelcafe.com

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1536 E. County Line Rd. | 601-956-1030

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Good Food Is Good Health!

41

Best Kids’ Menu, Best Place for Ice Cream: Sal & Mookie’s New York Style Pizza and Ice Cream Joint

Best Seafood: AJ’s Seafood Grille

I seriously think kids could eat pizza every day, all day. At Sal & Mookie’s, kids have a choice of pizza (of course), plus chicken dishes, hamburgers, PB&J, panini grilled provolone cheese sandwich or pasta with a choice of sauce.

And to keep the kids busy they can sculpt their own artwork with a free pack of wiki sticks.

Whatever you do, leave room for ice cream. The ice cream selection at Sal & Mookie’s has more than 20 flavors, which you can get in a dish, cake cone, sugar cone, waffle cone or chocolate-dipped candy-rolled waffle cone. They also have shakes, malts, floats, banana splits and sundaes. Who can resist caramel banana crunch, pecan bar a la mode, too much chocolate!, strawberry fields forever, double stuffed Oreo supreme or krispy treat a la mode?

But the alpha and omega of all sundaes is the Grand Central Station, a dessert that can “feed the whole table.” It features 10 assorted scoops of ice cream covered with chocolate, caramel, pineapple and butterscotch sauces, topped with peanuts, Oreo, Butterfinger and Snickers pieces, chocolate and white chocolate chips, marshmallows, rainbow sprinkles, regular & peanut M&M’s and Reese’s Pieces, finished with whipped topping and cherries!

Now that’s sinful and heavenly all at the same time.

—ShaWanda Jacome

Since John and Lucy Taylor opened AJ’s Seafood Grille in 1999, the restaurant has become a pescaterian’s dream. Now, AJ’s has won its second consecutive award for Jackson’s best seafood. Perusing the menu, it’s no wonder locals turn to this Ridgeland anchor for their scales and shells. Look to the seafood egg rolls for a creative meeting of East and West.

Crawfish and Andouille gumbo is never a poor choice, and the house specialty of Cajun redfish served blackened and topped with crawfish cream sauce is a crowd favorite. Regardless of your choice, it’s hard to go wrong with anything from the menu at AJ’s. Come hungry and enjoy the finest seafood the city has to offer.

—Andrew Dunaway

361 Township Ave., Ridgeland, 601-856-2844; 223 Ridge Way, Flowood, 601-919-1900, ajsgrille.com

565 Taylor St., 601-368-1919, salandmookies.com

Best Place for Ice Cream Second: Bop’s Frozen Custard (1173 E. County Line Road, 601-952-0661) / Third: Marble Slab Creamery (1057 E. County Line Road, 601-899-9060) / Good Showing: Brent’s Drugs (655 Duling Ave., 601-366-3427); Sweet Tree Yogurt (772 Lake Harbour Drive, Suite 5, Ridgeland, 601-707-5491); Baskin Robbins (multiple locations)

Best Ethnic or Specialty Grocery: Rainbow Natural Grocery Cooperative 2807 Old Canton Road, 601-366-1601, rainbowcoop.org

Second: Mr. Chen’s Authentic Chinese Cooking (5465 Interstate 55 N., 601-978-1865) / Third: Aladdin’s Grocery Store (740 Lakeland Drive, 601-366-2102) / Good Showing: Patel Brothers (1999 Highway 80 W., 601-353-6611); Van Hung Asian Market (637 Highway 51 N., 601-8569638); Carniceria Valdez (6350 Old Canton Road, Ridgeland, 601-899-6992)

January 25 - 31, 2012

1111 Bailey Ave., 601-355-5035

For another year E & L has managed to maintain its hold on the Best Ribs title. That is no mean feat, as many other contenders remain close on their heels. In this rib war, however, we the customers are the true winners. If you have been living under a rock for the last decade then I can only offer this; you are missing out on the spicy, sweet, smoky and mouth-watering goodness that can only be found at E & L. They also offer a full menu of other delights: rib tips, smoked sausage, pork sandwiches and pig ears (for the bold and daring). And forget about fine china. At E & L, just load up your Styrofoam box, and you’re good to go. Sound appealing? Then take a friend, a lover, your kids or even your boss, and show them some ribs worth getting messy with.

—Michael Jacome Second: Lumpkins BBQ (182 Raymond Road, 601-373-7707) / Third: Sonny’s Real Pit Bar-B-Q (2603 Highway 80 W., 601-355-7434) / Good Showing: Hickory Pit (1491 Canton Mart Road, 601-956-7079); Chimneyville Smokehouse (970 High St., 601-354-4665); Haute Pig (1856 Main St., Madison, 601-853-8538); Sylvester’s (9434 Highway 18, Raymond, 601-346-5530)

Best Pizza: The Pizza Shack

925 E. Fortification St., 601-352-2001; 5046 Parkway Drive, 601-957-1975, thepizzashackjackson.com

The Pizza Shack is back and better than ever in its new Belhaven location around the corner on Fortification Street between Kats Wine Cellar and Fenian’s Pub. Despite its new digs, it is still your favorite neighborhood pizza parlor where they probably know your usual order if you are a regular, whether it be a Thai chicken pizza, a spinach alfredo, a Mexican fiesta or even their outstanding plain—but flavorful—cheese pizza. If you’re eating in, aim for a night featuring live local music in the eclectic atmosphere. —Kelly Bryan Smith Second: Sal and Mookie’s New York Style Pizza & Ice Cream Joint (565 Taylor St., 601-368-1919) / Third: Soulshine (1111 Highland Colony Parkway, Ridgeland, 601-856-8646; 1139 Old Fannin Road, Flowood, 601-919-2000) / Fourth: Mellow Mushroom (275 Dogwood Blvd., TOWN?, 601-992-7499); BRAVO! Italian Restaurant and Bar (4500 Interstate 55 N., 601-982-8111)

Best French Fries: Mugshots Grill and Bar

Best Soul Food: Peaches

Mugshots Grill and Bar is part of Flowood’s rise as a new place to shop and dine in the metro area. The beer-battered fries at Mugshots are served hot, crisp, firm and well-seasoned, and complement the award-winning burgers well, no ketchup needed. The atmosphere is sports bar-ish with TVs lining the walls showing seasonal sports of interest. There is a small bar at one end of the building, but the restaurant is family friendly (witness the numerous gatherings of youth sports teams and large family outings) with good food and fast, friendly service. Plus, the price is right.

—Richard Coupe

I can’t think of “soul food” without thinking of Peaches Café. The beloved Farish Street establishment has been serving amazing soul food since 1961 but has been slightly overlooked by the young restaurant crowds of Jackson. But this past year, Peaches was brought to a new audience with the help of Parlor Market’s “PM Soul.” Brainchild of the late Craig Noone, PM Soul brought together restaurants from all over the city to serve soul food in front of Peaches as a benefit and to raise awareness. As new restaurant crop up in the city for foodies, let’s not forget to support this classic owned and operated by Willora Ephram and her son, Roderick Ephram.

—Holly Perkins

Second: Rooster’s (2906 N. State St., 601-982-2001) / Third: Stamps Superburger (1801 Dalton St., 601-352-4555) / Good Showing: Five Guys Burgers & Fries (122 Market St., Flowood, 601983-5555 and 1000 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite 2001, Ridgeland, 601-605-1115); Cool Al’s (4654 McWillie Drive, 601-713-3020); Burgers and Blues (1060 E. County Line Road, Suite 22, Ridgeland, 601-899-0028).

Second Place: Mama Hamil’s Southern Cookin’ (480 Magnolia St., Madison, 601-856-4407); Third Place: Two Sisters Kitchen (707 N. Congress St., 601-353-1180); Good Showing: Lumpkins BBQ (182 Raymond Road, 601-373-7707); Gloria’s Kitchen (2855 Bailey Ave., Suite A, 601-362-000); Collins Dream Kitchen (1439 Terry Road, 601-353-3845)

4245 Lakeland Drive, Flowood, 601-932-4031, mugshotsgrillandbar.com

42

Best Ribs: E & L Barbeque

327 N. Farish St., 601-354-9267

TATE K. NATIONS

If you don’t know where on earth to find something in Jackson, chances are that you will find it at Rainbow. Quinoa, keifer, probiotics and loaves of bread that don’t contain any traces of milk can all be found in Rainbow’s cozy neighborhood grocery aisles. If you’re trying to eat healthy on the run, Rainbow is the place to grab and go. If you’re trying to eat healthy on a budget, check out Rainbow’s varied bulk food aisles to get you started on your natural eating adventures.

—Kelly Bryan Smith

JERTRUTHA CRAWFORD

Best Kids’ Menu Second: Broad Street Baking Company and Café (4465 Interstate 55 N., Suite 101, 601-3622900) / Third: Primos Cafe & Bake Shop (515 Lake Harbour Drive, Ridgeland, 601-898-3400; 2323 Lakeland Drive, Flowood, 601-936-3701) / Good Showing: Newk’s (multiple locations); Rooster’s (2906 N. State St., 601-982-2001); Pan-Asia Restaurant (720 Harbour Pointe Crossing, Ridgeland, 601-956-2958)

Second: Mayflower Café (123 W. Capitol St., 601-355-4122) / Third: Walker’s Drive-In (3016 N. State St., 601-982-2633) / Good Showing: Sal & Phil’s (6600 Old Canton Road, Suite B, Ridgeland, 601-957-1188); Parlor Market (115 W. Capitol St., 601-360-0090); Bonefish Grill (201 Colony Way, Madison, 601-607-3334)

Best Server: Janis Boersma, Nick’s

Best Buffet: Ichiban Chinese Buffet

Janis Boersma hardly considers her job work.

The perennial Best Server truly loves her customers; she knows them all by name. Boersma has been with Nick’s for 22 years now, and she’s loved every minute. She makes personal connections with those she waits on and holds the position of “best friend” in the lives of many people. Customers report that she cares for them dearly and even remembers their birthdays. Boersma greatly enjoys the social interaction, and hopes to always have plenty of people to talk to.

—Sadaaf Mamoon

Buffets fit into our busy lives easily. Lucky for Jacksonians, the area’s numerous buffet options provide a smorgasbord of yummy food and budget-friendly prices, whether you’re looking for an Asian-inspired meal at No. 1 choice Ichiban Chinese Buffet or traditional southern fare of runners-up Mama Hamil’s Southern Cookin’ or Two Sister’s Kitchen.

You’ll have no problem giving your appetite exactly what it’s looking for at Ichiban.

Choose from Japanese sushi rolls, a wide selection of Asian-inspired seafood, or heartier meat and chicken entrees. Add a bowl of soup and a dessert for a complete meal, all starting at around $10 for adults and $5.50 for kids (dinner prices higher Friday through Sunday).

—Ronni Mott

359 Ridgeway, Flowood, 601-919-8879, ichibanbuffetms.com

3000 Old Canton Road, 601-981-8017, nicksrestaurant.com

Best Steak: Tico’s Steak House

1536 E. County Line Road, Ridgeland, 601-956-1030, ticossteakhouse.com

Second: Shapley’s Restaurant (868 Centre St., Ridgeland, 601-957-3753) / Third: Char (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 142, 601-956-9562) / Good Showing: Olga’s Fine Dining (4760 Interstate 55 N., Suite D, 601-366-1366); Walker’s Drive-In (3016 N. State St., 601 982-2633)

Best Sushi: Nagoya Japanese Restaurant

Best Local Fried Chicken: Two Sisters Kitchen 707 N. Congress St., 601-353-1180

Two Sisters Kitchen opened in June 1989 and has been serving the downtown Jackson community with southern cuisine ever since. You can enjoy your meal inside the beautiful two-story home that was built in 1902 or out on the patio overlooking the Supreme Court building. The buffet line features various healthily cooked southern sides such as cabbage, mustard greens, grits and cornbread. The star, the chicken, is fresh (never frozen) and prepared with the skin off and dusted with a special seasoning. Owner Diann Irving Alford, who runs the restaurant with her daughter, Amanda Griffin, says their special recipe has been passed down for four generations.

—Briana Robinson Second: Julep (4500 Interstate 55 N., 601-362-1411) / Third: Primos Café and Bake Shop (2323 Lakeland Drive, Flowood, 601-936-3398; 515 Lake Harbour Drive, Ridgeland, 601-898-3600) Good Showing: Rooster’s (2906 N. State St., 601-982-2001); Fannin Mart Restaurant (5419 Highway 25, Flowood, 601-992-0411); Table 100 (100 Ridge Way, Flowood, 601-420-4202)

6351 Interstate 55 N., 601-977-8881; 111 Colony Crossing Way, Suite 380, Madison, 601-856-5678, nagoya-ms.com

Best Hangover Food: Cherokee Inn

When it comes to sushi, I tend to stay in my comfort zone. Although it’s one of my favorite things to eat, I’m a “cooked roll, no sauce” type of girl, who isn’t quick to try new things. But if I do ever try anything new, it’s always at repeat Best Sushi-winner Nagoya Japanese Restaurant, because I trust that whatever it is, it’s going to be delicious. Although I usually stick with my absolute favorite, fully cooked “Crunchy Roll with Shrimp,” I’ve also ventured into the raw territory of tuna and eel. I’ve still never eaten anything at Nagoya that I didn’t enjoy. Nagoya has been voted Best Sushi in Jackson for years, because its service and food are consistently great.

—Holly Perkins

It was a night to trump all nights (as far as you can remember), but now you’re painfully awake, your mouth feels like cotton, your head is pounding, and Taco Bell and Krystal just aren’t going to cut it. Enter the Cherokee Inn. Cherokee’s menu is a godsend for those nursing the bottle flu. Start small with its “Crackers and Comeback” (which is exactly that—a basket of crackers and a bottle of comeback sauce), or soak up that alcohol with a plate of gravy fries, a thick bacon cheeseburger, fried chicken and black-eyed peas, or the old staple of fried dill pickles. It’s also not a bad place to get a headstart on tomorrow’s hangover.

—Bret Kenyon

Second (tie): Little Tokyo (876 Avery Blvd., Ridgeland, 601-991-3800); Sakura Bana (4800 Interstate 55 N., 601-982-3035) / Third: Fatsumo (3100 N. State St.,769-216-3574) / Good Showing: Ichiban Hibachi & Sushi (153 Ridge Way, 601-919-0097); Bonsai Japanese Steakhouse (1925 Lakeland Drive, 601-981-0606); Osaka (4325 Lakeland Drive, Flowood, 601-936-7000)

Second: Keifer’s (710 Poplar Blvd., 601-355-6825; 120 N. Congress St., 601-353-4976) Third: Burgers & Blues (1060 E. County Line Road, 601-899-0038) Good Showing: Mugshots Grill and Bar (1855 Lakeland Drive, 601-261-3261); Rooster’s (2906 N. State St., 601-982-2001); The Pizza Shack (925 E. Fortification St., 601-352-2001, 5046 Parkway Drive, 601-957-1975)

1410 Old Square Road, 601-362-6388

Multiple Locations, 201 E. Layfair Drive, Flowood, 601-932-3588, oecflowood.com

Do you ever crave hibachi, but rather than getting dressed and going to watch the whole spectacle of chefs cooking it in front of you, you’d like to just eat it at your own table in your sweatpants? This happens to me often, so I’m kind of a regular at OEC Japanese Express. Not only do they offer a wide selection of you-won’t-believeit’s-takeout hibachi, like steak and scallops, they also have sushi, tempura and other Japanese fare. Also among Jackson’s best takeout options are Newk’s Express Café, where you can call in an order or choose from their already prepared selections; traditional

takeout favorites of Chinese food at Best Wok; and pizza at Sal and Mookie’s New York Style Pizza and Ice Cream Joint.

—Holly Perkins Second (tie): Newk’s Express Café (Multiple Locations, newkscafe.com); Best Wok (225 Meadowbrook Road, Suite F., 601-368-9555); Third: Sal and Mookie’s New York Style Pizza and Ice Cream Joint (565 Taylor St., 601-368-1919); Good Showing: BRAVO! Italian Restaurant and Bar (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 211, 601-982-8111), Mr. Chen’s Authentic Chinese Cooking (5465 Interstate 55 N., 601-978-1865); Wok 2 Go (4329 N. State St., 601-981-2112)

jacksonfreepress.com

Best Take-Out: OEC Japanese Express

COURTESY TWO SISTERS

As I sat down to eat at Tico’s Steak House, I saw the Maine lobsters waving at me to come over, the one on the left said, “I just got here yesterday.” “No, eat me; I just got here this morning.” Could I have accidentally stumbled into Wonderland instead of the winner in the Best Steak category? Had the generous-sized drinks been a little too generous?

Nay, the food at Tico’s Steak House is just that good. Within this rustic log cabin, diners can choose from the juiciest steaks, tender lamb chops and succulent Maine lobster tails, among many other choices. Servers will gladly assist you with selecting a nice wine that complements the meal. Desserts are changed daily. The overall quality, however, doesn’t change. It is always award-winning.

—Michael Jacome

SHAWANDA JACOME

Second: Jennifer Breaux (Parlor Market, 115 W. Capitol St., 601-373-9841) / Third: Cathy Ambrose (Fenian’s Pub, 901 E. Fortification St., 601-948-0055) / Good Showing: Anne Friday (Hal & Mal’s, 200 S. Commerce St., 601-948-0888); Corinn Escude (Bravo! Italian Restaurant and Bar, 4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 211, 601-982-8111); Ryne Morrow (Fenian’s Pub, 901 E. Fortification St., 601-948-0055)

Second: Mama Hamil’s Southern Cookin’ (480 Magnolia St., Madison, 601-856-4407) / Third: Two Sister’s Kitchen (707 N. Congress St., 601-353-1180) / Good showing: Spice Avenue (4711 Interstate 55 N., 601-982-0890); King Buffet (6380 Ridgewood Court Drive, Suite I, 601-9566700); Lumpkins BBQ (182 Raymond Road, 601-373-7707)

43

Best Veggie Burger: Cool Al’s

Best New Restaurant: Table 100

A staple in the Jackson community, Cool Al’s is known for its extensive menu of “superburgers.” The vegetarian burger additions have been a favorite among the area’s vegetarians. While the garden burger is my absolute favorite, Cool Al’s also has the West African and Jamaican veggie burgers that include ingredients such as basmati rice, black-eyed peas and other seasoning that gives these burgers their West African and Jamaican spiciness.

—Pamela Hosey

The nice thing about writing about restaurant is eating. It doesn’t get much better than the Best New Restaurant: Table 100 in Flowood.

My wife and I dropped early on a Saturday afternoon, so the place was quiet. But we had excellent service and Chef Mike Römhild’s Euro American menu (with strong southern style) made dining a pleasure. My French onion soup was the best I’ve ever had.

Table 100 is owned by Bill Latham and Al Roberts, the same duo that brought Amerigo and Char restaurants to the area. The restaurant offers everything from hearty $10 plate lunch specials (think meatloaf to turkey scallopini) to pan-seared salmon or redfish and mouth-watering black-angus filets and ribeyes on the dinner menu.

Pair your meal with a perfect wine from Table 100’s extensive list or try a cocktail such as the classic Sazarac (made with absinthe, whiskey and bitters) or a mint julep. Check out the Sunday jazz brunch (10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.), offering everything from egg dishes to prime-rib roast with a little music on the side.

—Brett Benson

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

4654 McWillie Drive, 601-713-3020, coolals.net

Best Wine List/Selection: BRAVO! Italian Restaurant and Bar

At BRAVO! Italian Restaurant and Bar, the wild mushroom ravioli is a favorite. Made with Portobello and porcini mushrooms, mozzarella, and a Parmesan portwine cream sauce, it’s an entrée that’s hard to pass up. But which wine do you pair with it?

Do you go with a hearty red to match the earthiness of the mushrooms or a light white to pair with the cream? If you find yourself lost in the nearly 30 pages of BRAVO’s awardwinning wine list, sommelier Mitchell Earrey will be happy to point you in the right direction of taste and price. So, sit back, savor the ravioli and enjoy a glass from the wine list that has garnered years of Wine Spectator Awards of Excellence.

—Andrew Dunaway Second: Table 100 (100 Ridge Way Road, Flowood, 601-420-4202) / Third: Parlor Market (115 W. Capitol St., 601-360-0090) / Good Showing: Char (4500 Interstate 55 N., 601-956-9562); Nick’s (3000 Old Canton Road, 601-981-8017); Shapley’s (868 Centre St., Ridgeland, 601-957-3753)

Best Taqueria: Taqueria La Guadalupe 6537 Old Canton Road, Ridgeland, 601-206-7776

Moving to Mississippi was a betrayal to my stomach and its love for the quality Mexican food I was raised on. Then I found Taqueria La Guadalupe. Everything is fresh. The menu boasts standard taco meats, such as chicken and pork, as well as options like chorizo (Mexican sausage), barbacoa and tripe. As good as these choices are, they pale in comparison to the carne asada (roasted steak), tacos which rival any taco-cart tacos in Mexico. All tacos are made with corn or flour tortillas and served with lettuce, cilantro, avocado and onion. After your 157th visit, you may even want to try other specialties like elotes (roasted corn), menudo, tamales and tortas (Mexican sandwiches).

—Michael Jacome Second: Babalu Tacos and Tapas (622 Duling Ave., 601-366-5757) / Third: La Morena (6610 Old Canton Road, Ridgeland, 601-899-8821) / Good Showing: Carniceria Valdez (6530 Old Canton Road, Ridgeland 601-899-6992); Omonia/King Tortas (1290 E. Country Line Road, Ridgeland 601-420-5942)

Best Place for Fried Fish: Cock of the Walk Perennial favorite Cock of the Walk takes first place again for Best Place for Fried Fish, as it has for several years running. Cock of the Walk proves that specialization works. All it serves is tender, fresh, perfectly fried catfish, chicken, audacious cornbread and various veggie sides. The cooks save their efforts to bring you the best fried catfish you’ll find in Jackson, maybe anywhere in the country if you ask former New York Times food critic Craig Claiborne. And you get it all at one wallet-friendly price: $7.95. The restaurant is unpretentious as all get out, with its rustic atmosphere and family-friendly seating and setups, although you can’t beat the location: waterside on the rez. Don’t worry, vegetarians.

Veggie plates are on the menu, too.

—Ronni Mott Second: Penn’s Restaurant (Multiple locations, 601-982-9004) / Third: Jerry’s Catfish House (3326 Highway 49 S., Florence, 601-845-8860) / Good Showing: Eddie & Ruby’s Snack Bar (1268 Valley St., 601-969-2723); Martin’s Fish House (5249 Clinton Blvd., 601-922-1150); Valley Street Fish House, (1234 Valley St., 601-354-0939)

Best Wings: Wingstop Multiple locations, wingstop.com

Is it madness to choose a home based on its distance to the nearest Wingstop?

Perhaps, but I embrace it. With nine electrifying flavors to choose from (atomic, Cajun, original hot, mild, hickory-smoked BBQ, garlic Parmesan, Hawaiian, teriyaki and, my favorite, lemon pepper), you really can’t go wrong. But wait there’s more! Freshcut seasoned fries, potato salad, coleslaw, hot cheddar-cheese sauce, bourbon-baked beans or crispy veggie sticks complement the main course. Super fast service, 50-cent boneless wings, multiple flat-screen televisions and friendly service make Wingstop tempting enough to cause me to put my laptop down and go eat. Order online and be back at home within 15 minutes, or stay and enjoy the game with one of Wingstop’s numerous draft beers to choose from.

—Michael Jacome Second: Buffalo Wild Wings Grill & Bar (808 Lake Harbour Drive, Ridgeland, 601-856-0789) Third: Sal & Mookie’s New York and Ice Cream Joint (565 Taylor St., 601-368-1919) / Good Showing: Wing Station (5038 Parkway Drive, 888-769-9464); The Pizza Shack (925 E. Fortification St., 601-352-2001; 5046 Parkway Drive, 601-957-1975); American Deli (3645 Highway 80 W., 601-355-2448); Sportsman’s Lodge (1220 E. Northside Drive, Suite 100, 601-366-5441)

Best Doughnuts: Scurlock’s Donut Shop and Eatery 125 S. Congress St., Suite 106, 601-326-8520, scurlockdonuts.com

Jackson voted: Scurlock’s again serves the best doughnuts in town. Mark Scurlock has been making doughnuts for more than 20 years. Conveniently located in downtown Jackson across from Jackson City Hall, Scurlock’s offers an endless assortment of classic favorites. Doughnut holes, cake doughnuts, bear claws, apple fritters—you name it, and it is in the display case. The doughnuts and pastries are cooked fresh every morning. In addition to its popular doughnuts, Scurlock’s offers traditional breakfast items and serves plate lunches each day.

Scurlock’s is open for business Monday through Saturday at 7 a.m.

So whether you need doughnuts for your morning breakfast meeting or a morning treat for yourself, Scurlock’s is the place to go.

—Adriane Louie Second: Donut Palace (multiple locations; call 601-919-8601) / Third: Shipley’s Do-Nuts (103 Highway 80 E., Clinton, 601-925-0020) / Good Showing: Pillow Donuts (1679 Old Fannin Road, Suite D, Flowood, 601- 992-6040; 707 Beau Pre Drive, Ridgeland, 601- 790-9697); Monroe’s (6310 Medgar Evers Blvd., 601-981-3208) and Sweet Sensations (5036 Parkway Drive, 769233-7409)

LIZZIE WRIGHT

January 25 - 31, 2012

141 Madison Landing Circle, Ridgeland, 601-856-5500, cockofthewalkrestaurant.com/reservoir

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Second: Sombra Mexican Kitchen (1037 Highland Colony Parkway, Ridgeland, 601-707-7950) / Third: The Penguin Restaurant And Bar (1100 J. R. Lynch St., 769-251-5222) / Good Showing: Fatsumo Sushi (3100 N. State St., 769-216-3574), Abeba Ethiopian Restaurant (3716 Interstate 55 N., 601-713-1500), Cosmopolitan Café (2947 Old Canton Road, 601-983-4450), Grant’s Kitchen (2847 Lakeland Drive, Flowood, 601-665-4764)

COURTESY WINGSTOP

COURTESY BRAVO! ITALIAN RESTAURANT AND BAR

4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 244, 601-982-8111, bravobuzz.com

COURTESY TABLE 100

Second: High Noon Café (2807 Old Canton Road, 601- 366-1513) / Third: Burgers and Blues (1060 E. County Line Road, Suite 22, Ridgeland, 601-899-0038) / Good Showing; Majestic Burger (1491 Canton Mart Road, 601- 899-8822); Sal and Mookie’s New York Style Pizza and Ice Cream Joint (565 Taylor St., 601- 368-1919)

Best Place to Break Up, Best Place to Hang Out With a Laptop, Best Place to Get Coffee: Cups Espresso Café

$PNF 4FF 8IZ 8F XFSF 7PUFE 0OF PG UIF

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Multiple Locations, cupsespressocafe. com TATE K NATIONS

2012 Season of Black Rose Theatre You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown February 16, 17, 18, 19 & 23, 24, 25, 26 Auditions: January 3 & 4

Best Place to Hang Out With a Laptop Second: Sneaky Beans (2914 N. State St., 601-487-6349) / Third: Broad Street Baking Company and Café (4465 Interstate 55 N., Suite 101, 601-362-2900) / Good Showing: Java Ink (420 Roberts St., Pearl, 601-397-6292), Fusion Coffeehouse (1111 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite A, Ridgeland, 601-856-6001), Beagle Bagel (4500 Interstate 55 N., 769-251-1892; 898 Avery Blvd., Ridgeland, 601-956-1773; 100 Mannsdale Park Drive, Madison, 601-8564377) Best Place to Get Coffee Second: Sneaky Beans (2914 N. State St., 601-487-6349) / Third: Seattle Drip (Multiple Locations, seattledrip.com) / Good Showing: Broad Street Baking Company and Café (4465 Interstate 55 N., Suite 101, 601-362-2900), Fusion Coffeehouse (1111 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite A, Ridgeland, 601-856-6001); Java Ink (420 Roberts St., Pearl, 601-397-6292); Koinonia (136 S. Adams St., 601-960-3008) Best Place to Break Up Second: Ross Barnett Reservoir / Third: Club Fire (209 S. Commerce St., 601-5921000) / Good Showing: The Electric Cowboy (closed); at home; on Facebook

July 12, 13, 14, 15 Auditions: June 18 & 19

Godspell The Ponder Heart April 12, 13, 14, 15 & 19, 20, 21, 22 Auditions: Feb 27, 28 & 29

September 13, 14, 15, 16 & 20, 21, 22, 23 Auditions July 16, 17, & 18

Our Town

Southern Hospitality (a sequel to Christmas Belles)

June 7, 8, 9, 10 & 14, 15, 16, 17 Auditions: April 23, 24 & 25

November 8, 9, 10, 11 & 15, 16, 17 18 Auditions: September 24, 25, & 26

Black Rose Theatre 103 Black Street in Historic Downtown Brandon Call 601-825-1293 for Reservations

Tranforming Changing Being

Thanks To Our Customers for Your Support!

Because of You We Are A Finalist In: Local Burger French Fries Outdoor Dining Veggie Burger Place For Live Music

Voted one of Jackson’s Best Yoga Studios 7048 Old Canton Rd., Ridgeland MS

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Hangover Food Place to Chill Sports Bar

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live music january 25 - 31 wed | jan 25 Jessie “Guitar“ Smith 5:30-9:30p thur | jan 26 Jobub 5:30-9:30p fri | jan 27 Liz Stroud Band 6:30-9:30p sat | jan 28 Jessie “Guitar” Smith Blues Jam 6:30-10:30p sun | jan 29 Chris Gill Solo 5:30-9:30p mon | jan 30 Karaoke tue | jan 31 Jesse “Guitar” Smith 5:30-9:30p

1060 E County Line Rd. in Ridgeland Open Sun-Thurs 11am-10pm Fri-Sat 11am-Midnight | 601-899-0038

jacksonfreepress.com

Getting dumped is never an enjoyable experience, but I suppose if it’s going to happen, I might like it to happen at a coffee house. There probably wouldn’t be any tears, because it’s a public place, and I have the option of pouring some scorching hot coffee on my newly ex-boyfriend. That might actually make the experience enjoyable (although Cups coffee is not the kind I’d like to waste). Cups Espresso Café is the best coffee shop to break up in because what better to heal those emotional wounds than a blondie frappe?

Since it’s also the best place to get a cup of coffee and the best place to hang out with a laptop, order your newly single self some of the best coffee in town, sit back with your laptop, and go ahead and update your Match.com profile and change that Facebook relationship status to single.

—Holly Perkins

Night of One Acts (plays by local playwrights)

45

Best Bar, Best Bar Where Everyone Knows Your Name, Best Open-Mic Night: Fenianâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pub

Best Martini, Best Place for After-Work Drink: Julep Restaurant and Bar

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

4500 Interstate 55, Suite 105, 601-362-1411, juleprestaurant.com

Best Bar Where Everyone Knows Your Name Second: Hal & Malâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s (200 S. Commerce St., 601-948-0888) / Third: Ole Tavern on George Street (416 George St., 601-960-2700) / Good Showing: Sportsmanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lodge (1220 E. Northside Drive, Suite 100, 601-366-5441); Parlor Market (115 W. Capitol St., 601-360-0090); Julep (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 105, 601-362-1411) Best Open-Mic Night Second: Ole Tavern on George Street (416 George St., 601-960-2700) / Third (tie): Time Out Sports CafĂŠ (6270 Old Canton Road, 601-978-1839), Suite 106 (106 Wilmington St., 601940-7059) / Good Showing: Martinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lounge (214 S. State St., 601-354-9712), Last Call Sports Grill (1428 Old Square Road, 601-713-2700), Pelican Cove (3999 Harbor Walk Drive, Suite A, Ridgeland, 601-605-1865)

Best Dive Bar, Best Bar Where You Can Be Anonymous, Best Place to Drink Cheap: Martinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lounge 214 S. State St., 601-354-9712, martinslounge.net

Sometimes you want to go where everybody knows your name. But sometimes you just want to hideâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;even during the day. Martinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lounge prides itself on being a place where, for years, everyone from judges to felons has come to enjoy libations and live music. The bar starts serving at noon and goes until the wee hours of the morning. You wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t find â&#x20AC;&#x153;happy hourâ&#x20AC;? at Martinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. Rather, they always serve you a good drink at a fair price. Stay long enough, and youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll get to observe several distinct crowds of regulars cycling through, each with a unique character. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what makes Martinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not just a dive bar, but a Jackson institution. â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Julie Skipper Best Dive Bar Second: Samâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lounge (5035 Interstate 55 N.) / Third: Cherokee Inn (1410 Old Square Road, 601-362-6388) / Good Showing: Popâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Around the Corner (2636 S. Gallatin St., 601-355-3853); F. Jones Corner (303 N. Farish St., 601-983-1148), Fenianâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pub (901 E. Fortification St., 601948-0055)

46

Best Place to Drink Cheap Second: Cherokee Inn (1410 Old Square Road, 601-362-6388) / Third: Sportsmanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lodge (1220 E. Northside Drive, 601-366-5441) / Good Showing: Samâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lounge (5035 Interstate 55 N., 601-983-2526); Time Out Sports CafĂŠ (6270 Old Canton Road, 601-978-1839); Slickâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s (6340 Ridgewood Court Drive, 601-487-8388)

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Best Martini Second: Pan-Asia Restaurant (720 Harbour Pointe Crossing, Ridgeland, 601-956-2958) / Third: BRAVO! Italian Restaurant & Bar (4500 Interstate 55 N., 601-982-8111) / Good Showing: Parlor Market (115 W. Capitol St., 601-360-0900); Mint the Restaurant (1000 Highland Colony Parkway, Ridgeland, 601-898-6468); Char (4500 Interstate 55 N. Frontage Road, 601-956-9562) Best Place for After-Work Drink Second: Parlor Market (115 W. Capitol St., 601-360-0090) / Third: BRAVO! Italian Restaurant & Bar (4500 Interstate 55 N. Frontage Road, 601-982-8111) / Good Showing: Mint the Restaurant (1000 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite 5002, Ridgeland, 601-898-6468); Babalu Tacos and Tapas (622 Duling Ave., 601-366-5757); Table 100 (100 Ridge Way, Flowood, 601-420-4202)

Best Jukebox, Best Sports Bar: Sportsmanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lodge 1220 E. Northside Drive, Suite 100, 601-366-5441, thesportsmanslodge.net

Step inside the door of Sportsmanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lodge, and you are in a sports heaven. It is hard to decide which is better: the drinks, the atmosphere or the food. This bar is sure to fulfill your need for friendly yet competitive banter while watching one of the more than 20 flatscreen televisions showing just about any sporting event imaginable. Once hunger kicks in, order from the variety of items on the menu, but be sure to try the signature â&#x20AC;&#x153;Game Day Footlongs.â&#x20AC;? If just watching the game isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t enough, coerce your friends into playing a game of billiards or bowling, then crank up the jukebox and play any and every song you can think of. This bar has it all. â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Torsheta Bowens Best Jukebox: Second: Samâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lounge (5035 Interstate 55 N., 601-983-2526) / Third: Crechaleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Restaurant (3107 Highway 80 W., 601-355-1840) / Good Showing: Cherokee Inn (1410 Old Square Road, 601-362-6388); CSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s (1359-½ N. West St. 601-969-9482); JCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s (425 N. Mart Plaza, 601-3623108) Best Sports Bar: Second: Buffalo Wild Wings (808 Lake Harbour Drive, Ridgeland, 601-856-0789) / Third: Time Out (6270 Old Canton Road, 601-978-1839) / Good Showing: The Bulldog (6111 Ridgewood Road, 601- 978-3502); Last Call (1428 Old Square Road, 601-713-2700); Slickâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s (6340 Ridgewood Court Drive, 601-487-8388); Burgers and Blues (1060 E. County Line Road, Suite 22, Ridgeland, 601-899-0038)

Best Bouncer: Gary Owen Langston, The Bulldog 6111 Ridgewood Road, 601-978-3502

Gatekeepers to the party, bouncers decide who can gain entry and who must leave, who is too young and who has had too much. Even in ancient Greece, burly tough types guarded the doors against unwelcome visitors. Some bouncers can be firm with grace and class.

And some folks like making friends with someone that powerful. JFP readers voted Gary Owen Langston, who works at Bulldog, Jacksonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Best Bouncer because he takes his job seriously. He knows how to keep the youngâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;uns out. â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Valerie Wells Second: Kyle Bullock (Club Magooâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, 824 S. State St., 601-487-8710) / Third: Kazz Hill (Club Magooâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, 824 S. State St., 601-487-8710) / Good Showing: Jason McDaniel (Fenianâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pub, 901 E. Fortification St., 601-948-0055); Kenny Dunn (Parlor Market, 115 W. Capitol St., 601-3200090); Blake Bryant (formerly of Club Fire, 209 Commerce St., 601-592-1000); Chris Robinson (Popâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Around the Corner, 2636 S. Gallatin St., 601-355-3853)

VIRGINIA SSCHREIBER

January 25 - 31, 2012

Best Bar Where You Can Be Anonymous Second: Samâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lounge (5035 Interstate 55 N., 601-983-2526) / Third: The Bulldog (6111 Ridgewood Road, 601-978-3502) / Good Showing: Underground 119 (119 S. President St., 601-3522322); Hal & Malâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s (200 S. Commerce St., 601-948-0888); Sportsmanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lodge (1220 E. Northside Drive, 601-366-5441)

TATE K NATIONS

Best Bar Second: The Bulldog (6111 Ridgewood Road, 601-978-3502) / Third: Underground 119 (119 S. President St., 601-352-2322) / Good Showing: Parlor Market (115 W. Capitol St., 601-3200090); Hal & Malâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s (200 S. Commerce St., 601-960-2700); Julep (4500 Interstate 55 N., 601362-1411)

After a hard day, sometimes you just need a good, stiff drink. Nestled in Highland Village, the bar at Julep greets patrons seeking solace in an after-work martini or glass of wine. Whether you choose a bar stool or meet a group of friends and settle in at one of the comfortable booths, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a great place to shake off the workday. The restaurant offers a wine list with consistently great values on good bottles, and the martini list ranges from the classic to the creative.

The Wedding Cake Martini is quite popular with the ladies, although the martini menu ventures from the classic to combinations that could be dessert. â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Julie Skipper

SHAWANDA JACOME

Since 1996, Fenianâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s has operated as a neighborhood pub, providing food and drink as well as live music. Perhaps itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the Irish public-house tradition of being not just a place to drink, but a place for the community to gather, that makes walking into Fenianâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s feel like coming home. In fact, they like to say that they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t just serve drinksâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;they serve friends. As a result, the atmosphere is always relaxed and the service consistently good. Settle in and try out their Irish whiskey and single-malt Scotch whiskeyâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s among the widest selection in the state. â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Julie Skipper

Jesse Gallagher Griff Howard Lori Carpenter Scroggins Ginger Rankin Brock Freeman

COURTESY JASON TURNER

Best Local Singer, Best Local Musician: Jason Turner It all began with a philosophy similar to “One for all, and all for one” when Jason Turner and his threeman band took on the Jackson music scene back in 1997 at the Jubilee!JAM. Now, almost 15 years later, he’s the winner of the Best Local Singer and Musician awards. Turner is a connoisseur of music and has mastered the art of playing three instruments: piano, guitar and bass guitar. He is a self-proclaimed perfectionist and has made himself known throughout the nation for his songs “Nothing Town,” “Hotter Than the Sun” and “Tonight.”

—Brittany Kilgore

PAUL MITCHELL SIGNATURE SALON NOW CARRYING PAUL MITCHELL AWAPUHI

775 Lake Harbour Drive #H in Ridgeland 601.856.4330 | fax: 601.856.4505

Best Local Singer Second: Akami Graham / Third: Taylor Hildebrand / Good Showing: Lisa Palmer; Jackie Bell; Pam Confer; Cody Cox Best Local Musician Second (tie): Hunter Gibson, Taylor Hildebrand / Third: Raphael Semmes / Good Showing: Scott Albert Johnson; Cody Cox; Chad Wesley

Jackie Bell has a sound that can stir the coldest soul. “Miss Sweetheart” began singing professionally at age 19, and by age 26 she was touring internationally to places such as Modena, Pescara and Sicily in Italy.

In 1999, when she returned from Europe, Bell released “Old Man’s Sweetheart,” the title track of which was nominated for Local Recording Artist of 2000 by the Jackson Music Awards Association. JMAA nominated her for Local Female Vocalist of 2001, 2002 and 2005, and Local Blues Artist of the Year and Local Entertainer of 2005. Miss Sweetheart has performed at big stage venues such as the Mississippi Delta Blues and Heritage Festival and The Chicago Blues Festival as well as numerous local venues. She has also been a house entertainer for 930 Blues Café in Jackson with her band, The Sweetheart Blues Revue.

—Shameka Hayes-Hamilton

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Best Hip-Hop Artist: David Banner

Second: 5th Child / Third: Skipp Coon / Good Showing: PyInfamous; Big K.R.I.T.; Jay Lotto

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WILLIAM PATRICK BUTLER

Known as “Mr. Mississippi” to fans, there is no question as to where Lavelle Crump, aka David Banner, is from. The Provine High School and Southern Louisiana University graduate began his rap career with Brad “Kamikaze” Franklin in the rap duo Crooked Lettaz in 1999 before going solo in 2000. His single, “Like a Pimp,” became a radio hit, and soon after that Banner signed to SRC records. He has collaborated with artists such as Akon, Jazze Pha, Chris Brown and Young Joc. His recent track “Swag” became an instant, if controversial, hit in 2011. The message throughout the track seems to be that rappers and entertainers have taken the pride out of their craft and turned it into a minstrel show. Whatever the case, Mr. Mississippi definitely puts on for his city and continues to perform and produce hit music.

—Shameka Hayes-Hamilton

jacksonfreepress.com

CHARLES A SMITH

Best Blues Artist: Jackie Bell

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WEDNESDAY 01/25

Big Juv (Blues)

Thanks For Your Votes!

THURSDAY 01/26

Dain Edwards (Singer/Songwriter) FRIDAY 01/27

Shaun Patterson (Alternative)

SATURDAY 01/28

Blind Dog Otis (Blues)

MONDAY 01/30

Karaoke w/ Matt TUESDAY 01/31

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Northeast Jackson’s Largest Showroom

49

50

January 25 - 31, 2012

Best Bartender: Brad Regan

For almost eight years, 28-year-old Jacksonian Brad Regan has mixed the best drinks in the city while swaying customers with his urban swagger and potent concoctions.

Regan began his craft at Headliners, learning the ropes from former bartenders of The Dock. Between getting his fair share of phone numbers on the job, Brad works on serving up Julep’s most popular drink the ladies love: the plumtini.

He’s also known as the quickest bartender around Regan says he doesn’t drink much alcohol himself, preferring sweet tea. His favorite thing about bartending is getting to know everyone and encountering diverse people from all over. He credits bartending for honing his social skills; it’s not hard to believe Brad was voted Best Bartender when he has more than 2,130 friends on Facebook alone supporting him. So swing by Julep whenever Brad’s around and let him pour you a drink. Just be sure to leave a gracious tip.

—Julie Skipper Second: Robert Arender (Parlor Market, 115 W. Capitol St., 601-360-0090) / Third: Trevor Palmer (Club Magoo’s, 824 S. State St.) / Good Showing: Ashley Lewis (Burgers and Blues, 1060 E. County Line Road, Suite 22, 601-899-0038) Kavan Wood (Club Magoo’s, 824 S. State St., 601487-8710); Kris Grant (formerly of Underground 119, S. President St., 601-352-2322)

Sexiest Male Bartender: Steven O’Neill Parlor Market (115 W. Capitol St., 601-360-0090)

Looking good to the ladies isn’t the only thing bartender Steven O’Neill does. O’Neill works at Parlor Market and sells residential real estate at Nix-Tann. He has bartended for seven years and worked in the real-estate industry for four years. Prior to working at Parlor Market, he mixed drinks at The Bulldog and Julep.

While O’Neill prefers scotch, his favorite drink to serve is a Vieux Carre cocktail—rye whiskey and Cognac —it also happens to be one of Parlor Market’s more popular drinks. The Jackson native enjoys working at Parlor Market because it allows him to learn more about cocktails and mixology. He loves his interaction with people, their feedback on his work and the chance to incorporate their personality into the drinks. —LaShanda Phillips VIRGINIA SCHREIBER

Second: Brad Regan (Julep, 1305 E. Northside Drive, 601-362-1411) / Third: Trevor Palmer (Club Magoo’s, 824 S. State St.) / Good Showing: John Hime (The Bulldog, 6111 Ridgewood Road, 601-978-3502) / John Ingram (Parlor Market. 115 W. Capitol St., 601360-0090)/ Kris Grant (formerly of Underground 119, S. President St., 601-352-2322)

Sexiest Female Bartender: Kristen Veal

Sportsman’s Lodge, 1220 E. Northside Drive, Suite 100, 601-366-5441

Second Place: Ashley Lewis (Burgers and Blues, 1060 E. County Line Road, Suite 22, 601-8990038) / Third: Alyson Brady (Timeout Sports Café, 6270 Old Canton Road, 601-978-1839) / Good Showing: Bobbie Jo Kemp (Mississippi Legends Grill, 5352 Highway 25, Suite 50, 601919-1165); Hali Sappington; (formerly of AJ’s on Lakeland, 223 Ridge Way, Flowood, 601-9191900); Alyssa Montag (Bravo!, 4500 Interstate 55 N., 601-982-8111)

VIRGINIA SCHREIBER

Being sexy is more about your attitude than what’s falling out of your clothes. The sentiment couldn’t be truer of Kristen Veal, said Chris Jacobs, Sportsman’s Lodge owner.

Her great personality and easiness on the eyes notwithstanding, Veal exceeds the expectations most people have for a sports bartender, Jacobs said. “She knows how to take care of the guests and do it with a certain swag,” he said of Veal, who’s worked at the bar for about four years. The same goes for the runner-up, Burger and Blues’ Ashley Lewis, said Burger and Blues manager Jeremiah Lorenz. Patrons are so appreciative of Lewis’ ability to be a smart ass with a smile on her face that one admiring customer awarded her a trophy for awesomeness. “We have people who walk in, and if Ashley’s not working, they walk right out,” Lorenz said.

—R.L. Nave

jacksonfreepress.com

JERRICK SMITH

Julep, 4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 105, 601-362-1411

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Best Place to Dance: Shucker’s on the Rez

This was my first time visiting Shucker’s, but having been once, I can safely say I’ll be visiting again soon. While many venues create their “dance floor” by simply moving some tables around once a week, Shucker’s earns the “Best of” title by providing a dedicated dance floor, a stage for live music and a down-to-earth, laid-back “good times” atmosphere. And when you get tired of dancing, there’s a full bar (with surprisingly decent drink prices), an impressive menu and multiple pool tables at the opposite end of this roomy venue. While there is a small cover charge at night ($5), and the draft-beer selection tops out at about five choices, Shucker’s is still a solid bet for anyone looking to enjoy a piece of Jackson nightlife.

—Bret Kenyon Second: The Spot (formerly Electric Cowboy) (6017 Ridgewood Road, 601-899-5333) / Third: Salsa Mississippi (605 Duling St., 601-213-6355) / Good Showing: Bottoms Up (3911 Northview Drive, 601-981-2188); Underground 119 (119 S. President St., 601-352-2322); Club Magoo’s (824 S. State St., 601-487-8710

Best Place for Live Music: Hal & Mal’s

200 S. Commerce St., 601-948-0888, halandmals.com

Live music. It means so much more than just those two words. Who doesn’t enjoying eating and drinking with friends? And how much better is it when there is stellar live music playing in the room? Hal & Mal’s offers Jacksonians these things and more: It’s all about the ambiance. Whether you come for a drink (with more than 20 beers on tap and in bottles, 25 different martinis and countless mixed drinks), the food (try the tamales or Myrtis’ award-winning bayou gumbo) or to feast on the sounds of the live local and national bands, you won’t leave disappointed. Bands such as the North Mississippi Allstars, the Thomas Jackson Orchestra, Jimbo Mathus & The Tri-State Coalition and the Vernon Brothers all make Hal & Mal’s their home away from home. So should you.

—Michael Jacome Second: Underground 119 (119 S. President St., 601-3522322)/ Third: Martin’s Lounge (214 S. State St., 601-3549712)/ Good Showing: Fire (209 S. Commerce St., 601-5921000); Shucker’s on the Rez (116 Conestoga Road, Ridgeland, 601-853-0105); Burgers & Blues (1060 E. County Line Road, Suite 22, Ridgeland, 601-899-0038)

COURTESY THE COLONELS

116 Conestoga Road, 601-853-0105, shuckersontherez.com

Best Cover Band, Best Country Artist: The Colonels

A group that calls itself the No. 1 party band in the South has a lot to prove. The Colonels do that just fine, with a wink and a ballad.

Crisscrossing the state, the Brookhaven-based band plays in small towns, country venues and city bars. For a second year, JFP readers voted the group as Jackson’s best country artist. The band calls its genre something more: Country Heaven.

Members include Topher Brown on guitar, Nick Bridge on drums, Nick Smith on lead guitar and Marvin Curtis on keyboards.

Jessica Curtis sings as do Brown and Bridge, whom the band also credits as its comedian. This isn’t music to laugh at, though. Be ready to dance and party.

—Valerie Wells Best Cover Band Second (tie): Snazz, Shadez of Grey, Diesel 255 / Third: Chic Bang Theory / Good Showing: Otis Lotus Best Country Artist Second: The Band Perry / Third: Crossin Dixon / Good Showing: Jason Aldean; Jeff Maddox; Jason Turner

The Green Room is everything you think of when you hear the term “pool hall.” There’s a small bar with the beer and liquor basics, but nearly every other square foot of the smoky venue is filled with well-maintained pool tables. And don’t go looking for a place to insert quarters, these tables are the real deal.

Even with an impressive number of tables, the waiting line to play a game can be a little daunting, so I’d suggest getting here earlier in the night to secure a place. Also, a word to asthmatics: Smoking is permitted inside The Green Room, so on the one hand, you have that mysterious fog of intrigue hanging over the tables, but on the other, you’re breathing that mysterious fog of intrigue. Parking is also limited. So remember kids, the name of the game is “early arrival.”

—Bret Kenyon Second: Cherokee Inn (1410 Old Square Road, 601-362-6388) / Third: Reed Pierce’s (6791 Siwell Road, 601-376-0777) / Good Showing: Sam’s Lounge (5035 Interstate 55 N., 601-983-2526); Sportsman’s Lodge (1220 E. Northside Drive, Suite 100, 601-366-5441); Shucker’s (116 Conestoga Road, 601-853-0105); Tomara’s (9347 Highway 18 W., Raymond, 601-502-8580)

2914 N. State St., 601-487-6349

Sneaky Beans takes the title of “Best Place to Chill” once again, which makes sense, because I’m chilling on a couch sipping on some coffee in their front room as I’m typing this. I left the comfort of my house this morning to come here and write, because it is such a calm place where I can just chill. It’s the place where I can come to get work done or come hang out with friends, and nobody’s bothering me or rushing me out because I’ve been here drinking coffee, taking up couch space for hours. It’s just got that classic coffee-shop vibe—with music playing and art on the walls—that makes it comfortable and easy and the perfect place to chill.

—Holly Perkins Second: Fenian’s Pub (901 E. Fortification St., 601-948-0055 ) / Third: Cups Espresso Cafe (Multiple Locations) / Good Showing: Underground 119 (119 S. President St., 601-352-2322); The Bulldog (6111 Ridgewood Road, 601-978-3502); Burgers and Blues (1060 E. County Line Road, Suite 22 , Ridgeland, 601-899-0038)

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Second: Mississippi Mass Choir / Third: Kirk Franklin / Good Showing: Lee Williams; Monica Davis; The William Brothers

Second: Furrows / Third: Storage 24 / Good Showing: Soul Skard; Jason Turner Band

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Best Karaoke DJ: Matt Collette

Best Original Band: Storage 24 Storage 24 has been recognized

by MTV and won first place in a national Battle of the Bands competition in 2010. Storage 24’s music may have evolved out of the genre of Nu Metal, from bands like KoRn, Mudvayne and Disturbed. The sound of scratching a record, usually found in hip-hop, and the harsh cords from the guitar definitely makes Storage 24 a modern-day Nu Metal band to me. Does this mean Nu Metal is possibly being resurrected in the good ole’ state of Mississippi? I sure hope so.

—Brittany Kilgore Second: Chad Wesley Band / Third (tie): Chic Bang Theory, Iron Feathers, Jason Turner Band / Good Showing: Furrows; Horse Trailer

COURTESY MATT COLLETTE

The Chad Wesley Band calls itself almost spiritual with deep roots in southern black gospel.

They’ve been a regional force for 10 years. Songwriter and guitarist Chad Wesley fronts the Ridgeland-based band, singing and playing the piano.

Backing him up are Steve Smith on drums and Anthony Daniels on bass. Wesley releases his debut E.P., “Liberation,” later this year. Wesley has Grammy winner Kent Bruce engineering and producing this latest project. The band’s February and March schedule is booked with venues in all corners of the state.

—Brittany Kilgore

COURTESY CHAD WESLEY

COURTESY DATHAN THIGPEN

From “Sunday’s Best” to Jackson’s Best, Dathan Thigpen just seems to have it in his blood. During the 2010 season of BET’s “Sunday’s Best,” Thigpen graced the show with his spin on gospel music, which keeps him at the top of the city’s Best Gospel Artist list year after year. He was appointed worship leader at his church when he was younger and has roots in the Mississippi Mass Choir. Now, it is our turn to worship Thigpen in his reign as Jackson’s Best Gospel Artist. Although Thigpen did not win the “Sunday’s Best” competition, we still appreciate what he has to offer: praise music with compassion streaming behind it. If I were you, I would keep my eye on Thigpen because he has a lot to bring to Jackson’s musical roundtable.

—Brittany Kilgore

COURTESY STORAGE 24

Best Rock Artist: Chad Wesley Band

Best Gospel Artist: Dathan Thigpen

There I was—belting out “Bohemian Rhapsody” to a packed house at Fenian’s Pub thinking to myself that this sure is a fun crowd. I owe that night to the king of all karaoke DJs, Matt Collette. He has been doing karaoke full-time since 2004 and can be found bringing merriment all over town: Fenian’s, Martin’s or Sportsman’s Lodge.

When interviewed as a 2011 Young Influential for Boom Jackson he said, “This is not ‘American Idol.’

Just get up there and have fun.” With an impressive selection of songs to choose from and a loyal following of Jacksonians, you should make it a new year’s resolution to karaoke with Matt.

—ShaWanda Jacome Second: Casey Hardegree/DJ Stache (Ole Tavern, 416 George St., 601-960-2700) / Third: Angela Pittman, Krazy Karaoke / Good Showing: Mike Mott (Fire, 209 Commerce St., 601-592-1000), Josh Hailey (Slick’s, 6340 Ridgewood Court Drive

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Best New Bar: Club Magoo’s

Best Club DJ: DJ Cadillac

824 S. State St., 601-487-8710

ROY ADKINS

DJ Cadillac, also known as Bo Trebotich, has been spinning for six years and is best known for deejaying at the former Electric Cowboy. The 29-year-old DJ started out working for a friend who owned a club, doing security and bartending. The permanent DJ got sick, and Trebotich was asked to fill in. Later, he played at Cadillac Don’s bachelor party and was signed to Yea Yea Man Records. DJ Cadillac has become a club favorite, spinning a nice mix of hip-hop, rock, dub-step and pop to keep the party going. Despite his popularity, he remains humble and friendly. The Jackson native has won Best Club DJ for the past three years.

—Shameka Hayes-Hamilton Second: DJ Jonasty / Third: DJ Unpredictable / Good Showing: DJ Reign; DJ T-Lewis; DJ Young Venom; DJ Phingaprint

Jackson nightlife offers a range of experiences, and this year’s crop of new bars is no exception. Open since November 2011, Jackson voted Club Magoo’s as the best new bar for its live music, great food and drink selection. Drop by for happy hour Tuesday through Friday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. or Ladies’ Night on Thursday. The club features entertainment from live bands to karaoke with Matt Collette. Club Magoo’s can also host your private parties.

Whether you’re in the mood for live music downtown at Magoo’s or shooting some pool at Slick’s, these new establishments offer something for everyone. This year, we also saw the return of the Penguin, giving new life to a historic Jackson icon. Meanwhile, Table 100 offers half-glass tastes from its wine list encouraging patrons to try new things. Rounding out the winners, the Martini Room’s popular Martini Fridays draws a large crowd of regulars. Whatever your style, this list has something you’ll enjoy.

—Julie Skipper and LaShanda Phillips Second: Slick’s (6340 Ridgewood Court Drive, 601-487-8388) / Third: Table 100 (100 Ridge Way, Flowood, 601-420-4202) / Good Showing: ; The Penguin (1100 John R. Lynch St., 769251-5222); Martini Room (400 Greymont Ave., 678-462-2749)

Best College Hangout: Ole Tavern on George Street 416 George St., 601-960-2700

Known to many as simply “George Street,” Ole Tavern on George Street is a great place for college students, because it’s one where you can just chill out and enjoy a drink with your friends. Close to Mississippi College School of Law, Jackson State University, Millsaps College and Belhaven University, Ole Tavern is filled with college students taking a break from the stresses of school on any given night. One friend told me, “There was point where I was in there four nights a week.”

The 21+ bar is also known for its great live music, and even those of us who aren’t yet 21 can hang out at lunchtime and get some delicious food.

—Holly Perkins

Best Singer/Songwriter: Taylor Hildebrand Taylor Hildebrand has left his personal touch on the Jackson music scene with his bands Horse Trailer and Passenger Jones. But what is his touch, you ask? Taylor’s relaxed manner with his guitar makes his music seem effortless, and each song is worth its weight in gold. Taylor is musically fluent in guitar, vocals and songwriting. His demeanor and voice sets him apart from his competition in Jackson, which is one reason this is the second time in as many years that he’s topped this category.

—Brittany Kilgore FRANK EZELLE

Second: Cups Espresso Cafe (Multiple locations) / Third: Sneaky Beans (2914 N. State St., 601487-6349) / Good Showing: Freelon’s Restaurant Bar and Groove (440 N. Mill St., 601-9492535); Fenian’s Pub (901 E. Fortification St., 601-948-0055); The Bulldog (6111 Ridgewood Road, 601-978-3502)

Second: Cody Cox / Third: Jason Turner / Good Showing: Chad Wesley; Topher Brown; Hunter Gibson; Richard Lee Davis

Best Hotel Bar: King Edward Hotel (Hilton Garden Inn) 235 W. Capitol St., 601-353-5464, kingedwardhoteljackson.com

Best LGBT Hangout: Bottoms Up

It’s good to know that when you need it, there is a steadfast place you can go to after work to have a stiff drink. And on occasion you might find me, with a pal or two, letting off steam after a long week at the King Edward Hotel bar. The hotel is a historic building situated in downtown. After being vacant since 1967, the hotel reopened in 2009 with a fresh appearance and vibe. The bar is well-appointed with granite counter-tops, cream and sage colored walls and black molding and paneling. The atmosphere is friendly and low-key. All the bartenders are attentive and skilled at producing tasty cocktails and mixed drinks. There is also a patio that faces Capitol Street that is great for people watching when the weather is nice outside. So if you’re looking for an alternative to a club or pub, then the King Edward might be just what the doctor ordered.

—ShaWanda Jacome

3911 Northview Drive, 601-981-2188

Everyone is welcome at Bottoms Up, although folks mostly know it as a gay/lesbian club. A typical Saturday night includes many white, black, gay, straight, young and old men and women dancing into the wee hours. No one here as any qualms about partying for hours to the newest and hottest dance songs. Formerly known as Jack and Jill’s, the 18+ gay hangout has been Jackson’s favorite LGBT club since its opening in 2010.

Bottoms Up boasts dancing, drag shows and dramatic lighting. The mix makes for topnotch entertainment.

—Sadaaf Mamoon Second: JC’s (425 N. Mart Plaza, 601-362-3108) / Third: Club Volume (formerly Dick & Jane’s) (206 W. Capitol St., 601-944-0123) / Good Showing: Club mR (Metro Reloaded) (4670 Highway 80 W., 601-922-1040); Fenian’s Pub (901 E. Fortification St., 601-948-0055)

Second: Hilton/Fitzgerald’s (1001 E. County Line Road, 601-957-2800) / Third: Sam’s Lounge (5035 Interstate 55 N., Frontage Road, 601-983-2526) / Good Showing: Alumni House (574 Highway 51, Ridgeland 601-855-2225); The Martini Room inside the Regency Hotel & Conference Center (400 Greymont Ave., 601-969-2141)

January 25 - 31, 2012

Second: Raphael Semmes / Third: Lisa Palmer / Good Showing: Rhonda Richmond; Barry Leach; Swing de Paris

ML “The Truth” has a goal to “bring back real music with real meaning.” He writes, sings, composes tracks and produces. ML has opened for or performed with artists that include Monica, Trey Songz, Letoya Luckett (of Destiny’s Child fame), Silk, Trina, Recognition and many more. Some of his most popular tracks are “Love Games,” “The Girl is Bad,” featuring Fiend, and “First Time.”

After learning to play the guitar, Kerry Thomas began to attend as many open-mic nights as possible and began to receive offers to do hooks (choruses) for local rap artists. This led to Thomas deciding to do his own project. He includes artists such as Stevie Wonder, The Isley Brothers, Chaka Khan and Luther Vandross as some of his earlier influences.

—Shameka Hayes-Hamilton Second: Recognition / Third: Akami Graham / Good Showing: Taylor Hildebrand

COURTESY ML WILLIAMS; COURTESY KERRY THOMAS

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Along with her band Jazz Beautiful, Pam Confer has performed at numerous venues throughout the city. Confer is a graduate of Jackson State University and a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority. She is the founder of Speak BIG, a communications and public-speaking program, and is also a writer and publicist. Confer is the editor of the book “Spoken Success: Understanding the Art of Public Speaking,” by Robert Little. She is also the first woman to serve as a constable in Hinds County.

—Shameka Hayes-Hamilton

CAMILLE MOENKHAUS

Best Jazz Artist: Pam Confer

Best R&B Artist (tie): ML ‘The Truth,’ Kerry Thomas

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ALL STADIUM SEATING Listings for Fri. Jan. 27- Thurs. Feb. 02 2012 The Grey

R

Man On A Ledge PG13 One For The Money PG13 The Iron Lady

PG13

Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close PG13 Red Tails

PG13

3-D Underworld: Awakening R Haywire

Beauty And The Beast (non 3-D) G Joyful Noise PG13 Contraband

R

Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy

R

War Horse

PG13

Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol PG13 Sherlock Holmes: A Game Of Shadows PG13

3-D Beauty And The Beast G

The Descendants R

The Artist

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875 Beach Blvd., Biloxi, 888-567-6667, 228-386-7111, beaurivage.com

Casinos have become an important part of Mississippi culture in recent years, both as a tool for economic development and as a way to relax and have fun.

JFP readers picked â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Beauâ&#x20AC;? as their favorite getaway for a casino show and hotel. My first time visiting Beau Rivage, I was struck by the Disneyland atmosphere of flashing lights, thundering music and all that brass. And it is certainly on my â&#x20AC;&#x153;best of listâ&#x20AC;? when it comes to the ever-important buffet category. (You just have to love a buffet that serves wine.)

Situated right on the Gulf Coast, Beau Rivage entices with the promise of white beaches, accommodations and headline entertainment that satisfies a range of tastes.

This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s shows range from Vince Gill, Gladys Knight and Willie Nelson to the Doobie Brothers and Cheech and Chong.

(Watch for Lenny Kravitz on Feb. 23 and Gladys Knight on April 13.) With an appeal to almost any taste and proximity to so many other amenities, such as Beauvoir (Jefferson Davisâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; home), the Ohr-Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Keefe Museum of Art and the Schooner CafĂŠ, it is easy to see why this casino consistently rates as one of the best getaway values around. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Brett Benson Best Casino for Shows Second: Hard Rock (777 Beach Blvd., Biloxi, 228-374-7625) / Third: Ameristar (4146 S. Washington St., Vicksburg, 601-638-1000) / Good Showing: Pearl River Resortâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Golden Moon (13541 Highway 16 W., Philadelphia, 601-663-0066); Pearl River Resortâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Silver Star (13541 Highway 16 W., Choctaw, 601-663-0066); Imperial Palace (850 Bayview Ave., Biloxi, 888-946-2847)

COURTESY BEAU RIVAGE RESORT & CASINO

PG13

Alvin And The Chipmunks: Chipwrecked G

R

Best Casino Hotel, Best Casino for Shows: Beau Rivage Resort & Casino

Best Casino Hotel: Second: Ameristar (4146 S. Washington St., Vicksburg, 601-638-1000) / Third: Hard Rock (777 Beach Blvd., Biloxi, 228-374-7625) / Good Showing: Pearl River Resortâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Golden Moon (13541 Highway 16 W., Philadelphia, 601-663-0066); Riverwalk (1046 Warrenton Road, Vicksburg, 601634-0100); Imperial Palace (850 Bayview Ave., Biloxi, 888-946-2847)

Best Casino for Gaming: Ameristar

4146 S. Washington St., Vicksburg, 601-638-1000, ameristar.com/Vicksburg

January 25 - 31, 2012

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Second: Beau Rivage (875 Beach Blvd., Biloxi 888-567-6667) / Third: Hard Rock (777 Beach Blvd., Biloxi, 228-374-7625) / Good Showing: Riverwalk (1046 Warrenton Road, Vicksburg, 601-634-0100); Pearl River Resortâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Silver Star (13541 Highway 16 W., Choctaw, 601-663-0066); Rainbow (1350 Warrenton Road, Vicksburg, 800-842-6837)

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COURTESY AMERISTAR

For those who just want to get out of town to throw their money down, the Ameristar Casino in Vicksburg is the casino JFP readers chose. There is just something about the thought of gambling on the Mississippi River that evokes thoughts of Mark Twain and the film â&#x20AC;&#x153;Showboat.â&#x20AC;? The 70,000-squarefoot Ameristar casino boasts more than 1,500 slots, and 32 tables of craps, poker and blackjack appealing to every gamblerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s appetite. â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Brett Benson

id you know that there are 398,329 possible drink combinations available at Sonic? Did you know you could have a new drink, every day, for the next 462 years? They don’t call Sonic the “Ultimate Drink Stop” for nothing!

Sonic started as a hamburger and root beer stand, called the Top Hat Drive-in, in 1953 in Shawnee, OK. With a name change in 1959, Sonic in the last 50 years has grown to be the nation’s largest chain of drive-in restaurants. Sonic’s unique use of curbside speakers to allow customers to place food orders without ever leaving their cars spawned the slogan “SONIC, Service with the Speed of Sound.”

What has helped catapult Sonic’s success is the personal carhop service they provide. Frequently on roller skates, the smiling carhops personally deliver orders right to your car, and check back with you to ensure a quality experience.

Ever wonder why every order is served with a mint? This tradition was started by company founder Troy Smith Sr. to remind customers they are worth a mint at Sonic.

Sonic is known for its specialty menu items and personal service. The unique menu items include Toaster® Sandwiches, Footlong Quarter Pound Coneys (hot dogs with chili and cheese), Onion Rings, Tater Tots, and a variety of frozen desserts and fountain drinks.

For more than 15 years, Sonic’s community giving programs have been geared toward advancing education and academic opportunities for youth. To further extend its commitment to education, Sonic introduced Limeades for Learning. This national program benefits teachers and students in local communities.

So the next time hunger strikes, make your way to the only place with personalized carhop service, quality food, and tasty drinks…all 398,329 of them.

jacksonfreepress.com

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PA I D A DV E RT I S E M E N T

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BEST BETS January 25 - February 1, 2012

by Latasha Willis events@jacksonfreepress.com Fax: 601-510-9019 Daily updates at jfpevents.com

WEDNESDAY 1/25

COURTESY WAYNE FRANCIS/LIGHTFOOT.CA

Author Peggy Prenshaw speaks during History Is Lunch at noon at the William F. Winter Archives and History Building (200 North St.). Bring lunch; call 601-576-6998. … The Jewish Cinema Mississippi film festival kicks off at 7:15 p.m. at Malco Grandview Theatre (221 Grandview Blvd., Madison); runs through Jan. 29. $10, $5 students, $35 festival pass; visit jewishcinemams.com. … John Mora is at Papitos. … The play “Lombardi” is at 7:30 p.m. at New Stage Theatre (1100 Carlisle St.); runs through Feb. 5. $25, $22 seniors and students; call 601-948-3533, ext. 222. … Gordon Lightfoot performs at 8 p.m. at Thalia Mara Hall. $34-$49; call 800-745-3000. …

Live DJ Night at The Boardwalk. … Shane and Frazier play at Underground 119. … The New Bourbon Street Jazz Band plays at Hal & Mal’s. … Big Juv is at Fenian’s.

The Dixie National Livestock Show kicks off at the Mississippi State Fairgrounds (1207 Mississippi St.) and runs through Feb. 19. Free; call 601-961-4000; visit www.mdac.state. ms.us for a schedule. … Enjoy local food, craft beers and music at Appetite for Jackson from 2-9 p.m. at Mississippi Museum of Art (380 S. Lamar St.) in the Art Garden. Proceeds benefit the Craig Noone “Rock It Out” Memorial Scholarship Fund.

Free admission, $5 plates, drink prices vary; visit appetitefor jackson.com. … See the documentary “Cut, Poison, Burn” at 6 p.m. at Russell C. Davis Planetarium (201 E. Pascagoula St.). $12; call 601-487-6894. … Janis Johnson-Durr and the Evangelist Temple Mass Choir’s live recording is at 7 p.m. at Greater Deliverance Church of God in Christ (110 Holiday Lane, Byram). Free; call 601-497-5887 or 601-355-1021. …

The International Blues Competition Fundraiser is at 7 p.m. at F. Jones Corner. $5. … The Mississippi Symphony Orchestra presents “Chamber II: Mozart by Candlelight” at 7:30 p.m. at Belhaven University Center for the Arts (835 Riverside Drive). $15; call 601-960-1565. … 13 Ghosts and the Ming Donkey One-Man Band play at Ole Tavern. … Salsa Mississippi (605 Duling Ave.) throws a Wild Salsa Party at 9 p.m. $10 cover, $5 students with ID; call 601-213-6355.

Amazin’ Lazy Boi performs during F. Jones Corner’s blues lunch and at midnight. … Nevada Barr signs copies of “The Rope: An Anna Pigeon Novel” at 5 p.m. at Lemuria Books (202 Banner Hall, 4465 Interstate 55 N.); reading at 5:30 p.m. $25.99 book; call 601-366-7619. … The Dads and Moms Parent Conference is at 5:30 p.m. at Cardozo Middle School (3180 McDowell Road Ext.). Registration encouraged.

Free; call 601-960-8945. … Columbus Toy performs during Centric Thursday at Dreamz JXN. … Bourbon St. in the Quarter hosts Ladies Night/Men Are Pigs Night. … Jo Bub performs at Burgers and Blues. … Club Magoo’s hosts Ladies Night with DJ Reign. … Hunter Gibson is at Kathryn’s. …

Scott Bartlett and Clay Caldwell perform at The Med Grill.

SUNDAY 1/29

Art House Cinema Downtown at Russell C. Davis Planetarium (201 E. Pascagoula St.) includes “Into the Abyss” at 2 p.m. and “The Way” at 5 p.m. $7 per film; visit msfilm.org. … Sample brands of Kentucky bourbon during Urban Bourbon at BRAVO! Italian Restaurant (4500 Interstate 55 N.) at 4 p.m. RSVP. $50; email mitchelle@bravobuzz.com. … The JFP honors 2012 Best of Jackson winners, 6 p.m.; finalists can email marissa@jacksonfreepress.com to get on the list. ...

Dreamz JXN’s Generation NXT Concert Series features Savvy and Gutta, Miz Smurff and a video shoot for Dem Boyz.

MONDAY 1/30

Dr. Amina Wadud speaks on the topic “Muslim Women and Transformation” at 7 p.m. at Millsaps College, Ford Academic Complex (1701 N. State St.) in room 215. Free; call 601-974-1333. … The Central Mississippi Blues Society Jam is at 7 p.m. at Hal & Mal’s. $5. … Pub Quiz at Ole Tavern.

TUESDAY 1/31

The Ruminants with daniel johnson perform at Pizza Shack, Colonial Mart (5046 Parkway Drive, Suite 6) from 6-8 p.m. Free. … The Mississippi Animal Rescue League’s “Whisky, Whiskers and Wags” fundraiser is at 6:30 p.m. at the Arts Center of Mississippi (201 E. Pascagoula St.). Advance tickets only. $65 tasting and dinner, $30 dinner only; call 601-896-5157. … Front Porch Dance and the Strange Pilgrims perform at 7 p.m. at Millsaps College, Ford Academic Complex (1701 N. State St.) in the recital hall. $10, $5 students, free with Millsaps ID; call 601-974-1130.

WEDNESDAY 2/1

USM history professor Max Grivnos speaks during History Is Lunch at noon at the William F. Winter Archives and History Building (200 North St.). Bring lunch; call 601576-6998.

More at jfpevents.com and jfp.ms/musicvenues.

“Lombardi” cast members (left to right) Rob Demery, Kenneth Mayfield, James Thompson and Bill Ford Campbell perform at New Stage Theatre through Feb. 5.

COURTESY MELISSA TILLMAN

THURSDAY 1/26

January 25 - 31, 2012

The Jackson Bike Advocates’ Community Bike Ride is at 6 p.m. and starts at Rainbow Whole Foods (2807 Old Canton Road). Visit facebook.com/jacksonbikeadvocates. … The American Heart Association’s Art for Heart Ball is at 6:30 p.m. at the Country Club of Jackson (345 Saint Andrews Drive). The Billy Smiley Band performs. $125-$250; call 601-321-1214; visit heart.org/metrojacksonheartball. … The Vicksburg Theatre Guild’s musical “Forever Plaid” is at 7:30 p.m. at Parkside Playhouse (101 Iowa Blvd., Vicksburg); runs through Jan. 29. $12, $10 seniors, $7 students, $5 children 12 and under; call 601-636-0471. …

The Facebook Party featuring the N.B.C. Band and Eddie Williams is at 8:30 p.m. at Exposé. Door prizes given. For ages 21 and up. Wear upscale attire. BYOB. $10 men, $5 ladies; call 601-622-1637. … Dreamz JXN hosts Free for All Friday. No cover. … Club Magoo’s hosts All Dance Night.

SATURDAY 1/28

Folk singer-songwriter Gordon Lightfoot performs at Thalia Mara Hall Jan. 25 at 8 p.m.

60

FRIDAY 1/27

jfpevents Appetite for Jackson Jan. 28, 2 p.m., at Mississippi Museum of Art (380 S. Lamar St.), in the Art Garden. Enjoy regional craft beers, food from local restaurants and live music from several bands. Andrew Zimmern from the Travel Channel is the special guest. Proceeds benefit the Craig Noone “Rock It Out” Memorial Scholarship Fund. Free admission, $5 plates, drink prices vary; visit appetiteforjackson.com.

Best of Jackson 2012, Jan. 29, 6 p.m. The JFP honors the 2012 Best of Jackson winners. To get on the list and for the location, finalists can email marissa@ jacksofreepress.com.

COMMUNITY Events at Jackson Medical Mall (350 W. Woodrow Wilson Ave.).

• EITC Awareness Day and Keep the Change Fair Jan. 27, 10 a.m. Free tax preparation is available to those who earn under $51,000. Receive information on community programs. Free; call 601-965-1354.

• Parents for Public Schools Lunch Bunch Feb. 1, 11:30 a.m., at Jackson Medical Mall (350 W. Woodrow Wilson Ave.), in the Community Meeting Room. RSVP. $5 lunch; call 601-969-6015.

Events at Millsaps College, Ford Academic Complex (1701 N. State St.).

• “Muslim Women and Transformation” Jan. 30, 7 p.m., in room 215. Dr. Amina Wadud of Starr King School for Ministry lectures on the role of women in progressive Islam.

Free; call 601-974-1333.

• Millsaps Arts and Lecture Series Jan. 31, 7 p.m., in the recital hall. Front Porch Dance with the Strange Pilgrims present “Contemporary Dance in Mississippi.” $10, $5 students, free with Millsaps ID; call 601-974-1130.

Events at Mississippi Center for Nonprofits (201 W. Capitol St., Suite 700). Call 601-968-0061.

• In-the-Know: Decoding the IRS 990 Forms Jan. 27, 9 a.m. $99, $49 members.

• Faith-Based Boot Camp: Fundraisers and Boards That Work for Your Mission Jan. 31, 9 a.m. $179, $89 members.

Events at Northpark Mall (1200 E. County Line Road, Ridgeland).

• Job Fair Jan. 28, 10 a.m., at Center Court. Bring resumes to share. Free; call 601-863-2316.

• Kiehl’s Ribbon Cutting Jan. 27, 2 p.m., at Dillard’s. Includes check presentation to Ronald McDonald House Charities, skin consultations and hand massages. Free; call 601-957-7100.

“History Is Lunch” Jan. 25, noon, at William F. Winter Archives and History Building (200 North St.). Peggy Prenshaw discusses her book “Composing Selves.” Bring lunch; call 601-576-6998.

Presidential Lecture Series Jan. 25, 6 p.m., at Tougaloo College, Woodworth Chapel (500 W. County Line Road, Tougaloo). The speaker is William Keyes, founder and director of the Institute for Responsible Citizenship. Free; call 601-977-7871.

LABA-Link Meeting and Networking Session Jan. 25, 6:30 p.m., at Tequila’s Mexican Grill (7049 Old Canton Road, Ridgeland). Committee meetings are at 6:30 p.m., networking 7-8:30 p.m. Free admission; email labalink@gmail.com.

Dads and Moms Parent Conference Jan. 26, 5:30 p.m., at Cardozo Middle School (3180 McDowell Road Ext.). The event includes workshops, exhibitors, door prizes, giveaways and a free dinner. The speaker is Marcus Cathey, pastor of West Point Baptist Church in Hattiesburg. Registration encouraged. Free; call 601-960-8945.

Special Needs Symposium Jan. 26, 7 p.m., at Cove-

nant Presbyterian Church (4000 Ridgewood Road).

Check-in is at 6:30 p.m. Learn about resources available to special-needs children. Dinner, dessert, goody bags and door prizes included. For adults only; registration required Free; call 601-366-0901.

Precinct 4 COPS Meeting Jan. 26, 6 p.m., at Redeemer Church (640 E. Northside Drive). These monthly forums are designed to help resolve community issues. Call 601-960-0004.

Community Bike Ride Jan. 27, 6 p.m., at Rainbow Whole Foods Co-operative Grocery (2807 Old Canton Road). Jackson Bike Advocates is the sponsor. Visit facebook.com/jacksonbikeadvocates.

Dixie National Rodeo and Livestock Show Jan. 28-Feb. 19, at Mississippi State Fairgrounds (1207 Mississippi St.). The annual event kicks off with horse shows and livestock competitions leading up to the Dixie National Rodeo Feb. 9-15. $15$23, free livestock shows; call 601-961-4000.

Power APAC Pancake Breakfast Jan. 28, 7 a.m., at Applebee’s (900 E. County Line Road). The fundraiser is for the school’s dance department. $5; call 601-960-5387.

Homebuyer Education Class Jan. 28, 9 a.m., at Jackson Housing Authority (2747 Livingston Road). The class is required to qualify for a Jackson Housing Authority loan. Registration required. Free; call 601-362-0885, ext. 115.

Free Income Tax Return Preparation Jan. 28, 10 a.m., at Jackson State University (1400 John R. Lynch St.), at the Student Center, suite 2241. Free; call 601-979-2029 or 601-979-2699.

Urban Bourbon Jan. 29, 4 p.m., at BRAVO! (4500 Interstate 55 N.). The Kentucky bourbon tasting features brands such as Knob Creek, Booker’s and Buffalo Trace. RSVP. $50; email mitchelle@ bravobuzz.com.

Foreign-Trade Zone Seminar Feb. 1, 10 a.m., at Hilton Jackson (1001 E. County Line Road). The Mississippi World Trade Center hosts an in-depth seminar on the benefits of the U.S. Foreign-Trade Zone (FTZ) program. Registration required. $45, $30 members; call 601-353-0909.

WELLNESS Heart Day Registration through Jan. 31, at Baptist Medical Center (1225 N. State St.). The Feb. 4 cardiovascular screenings are given from 7-11 a.m.

For ages 18 and up. $25; call 601-948-6262 or 800-948-6262.

Yoga Classes through March 9, at The Commons at Eudora Welty’s Birthplace (719 N. Congress St.).

Tara Blumenthal and Katie Cassady teach the class Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from noon-1 p.m. $12 drop-in fee, $80 class package; email info@tara-yoga.net.

Public Health Conference Jan. 27, 8 a.m., at Dancing Rabbit Inn (13240 Highway 16 W., Choctaw).

The theme is “Working Toward a Healthier Mississippi.” On-site registration available. $20, $10 seniors, free for high school students; email kdparker@civilrightsconference.com.

Garage Games 2011: CrossRoads Competition Jan. 28-29, at Performance Sports Powered by Mississippi CrossFit (853 Wilson Drive, Ridgeland).

Participants compete in athletic games. $100; call 601-991-3360.

American Cancer Society Reach to Recovery Training Jan. 28, 9 a.m., at American Cancer Society (1380 Livingston Lane). The organization trains breast cancer survivors who are at least one year from the completion of their treatment to support others who are in active treatment. Registration required. Call 601-321-5500.

“A Healthier You” Workshop Jan. 28, noon, at Butterfly Yoga (3025 N. State St.). Butterfly Yoga’s Scotta Brady and liveRIGHTnow’s Terry Sullivan are the instructors. Learn yoga, sample smoothies and

BE THE CHANGE Art for Heart Jan. 27, 6:30 p.m., at Country Club of Jackson (345 Saint Andrews Drive). The American Heart Association celebrates its 34th annual ball with cocktails, auctions and a seated dinner. The Billy Smiley Band performs. $125-$250; call 601-321-1214; visit heart.org/metrojacksonheartball.

“Cut, Poison, Burn” Documentary Screening Jan. 28, 6 p.m., at Russell C. Davis Planetarium (201 E. Pascagoula St.). The documentary follows the lives of families who are seeking alternative cancer treatments but have been hindered by the FDA. Some of the people from the film share their stories via Skype. Popcorn and a drink included. A portion of the proceeds benefits People Against Cancer, the Foundation for Collaborative Medicine and Research, and Setting Them Free. $12; call 601-487-6894.

Whisky, Whiskers and Wags Jan. 31, 6:30 p.m., at Arts Center of Mississippi (201 E. Pascagoula St.).

The scotch tasting and dinner benefits the Mississippi Animal Rescue League. Tickets sold in advance only. Sponsorships available. $65 tasting and dinner, $30 dinner only; call 601-896-5157. learn about power foods. Raw food lunch included.

Registration recommended. $90; visit liverightnowonline.com/workshop-a-healthier-you.

Vine-yl Night Jan. 28, 5:30 p.m., at North Midtown Arts Center (121 Millsaps Ave.). Play, sell and swap records, and enjoy an artist reception, free wine and $2 beers. Free; call 601-376-9404.

FARMERS MARKETS

Janis Johnson-Durr and the Evangelist Temple Mass Choir Jan. 28, 7 p.m., at Greater Deliverance Church of God in Christ (110 Holiday Lane, Byram). Attend the live recording of the concert.

Free; call 601-497-5887 or 601-355-1021.

Mississippi Farmers Market (929 High St.), Jan. 28-Dec. 15. Open 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Thursdays and Saturdays. Call 601-354-6573.

STAGE AND SCREEN

LITERARY AND SIGNINGS

Crossroads Music Video Showcase Call for Entries. Musicians or filmmakers in or near Mississippi are eligible. Submit by Feb. 1 at 11:59 p.m.

Finalists receive tickets to the Crossroads Music Video Showcase in April. One entry form per video.

Free; visit crossroadsfilmfestival.com.

Events at Lemuria Books (202 Banner Hall, 4465 Interstate 55 N.). Call 601-366-7619.

• “Roger Williams and the Creation of the American Soul” Jan. 25, 5 p.m. John Barry signs books; reading at 5:30 p.m. $35 book.

• “The Rope: An Anna Pigeon Novel” Jan. 26, 5 p.m. Nevada Barr signs copies; reading at 5:30 p.m. $25.99 book.

• “The Orphan Master’s Son” Jan. 27, 5 p.m.

Adam Johnson signs books; reading at 5:30 p.m. $26 book.

• Lemuria Story Time Jan. 28, 11 a.m. This week’s story is Eric Litwin’s “Pete the Cat.” Attendees also learn a song from the book. Free.

• “A Grown-Up Kind of Pretty” Jan. 31, 5 p.m.

Joshilyn Jackson signs books; reading at 5:30 p.m. $25.99 book.

“Forever Plaid” through Jan. 29, at Parkside Playhouse (101 Iowa Blvd., Vicksburg). The Vicksburg Theatre Guild presents the musical comedy. Shows are Jan. 27-28 at 7:30 p.m., and Jan. 29 at 2 p.m. $12, $10 seniors, $7 students, $5 children 12 and under; call 601-636-0471.

“Lombardi” Jan. 24-Feb. 5, at New Stage Theatre (1100 Carlisle St.). The play is based on David Maraniss’ biography. Shows are Jan. 24-28 and Feb. 1-4 at 7:30 p.m., and Jan. 29 and Feb. 5 at 2 p.m. $25, $22 seniors and students; call 601948-3533, ext. 222.

Jewish Cinema Mississippi 2012 Jan. 25-29, at Malco Grandview Theatre (221 Grandview Blvd., Madison). Films include “The Matchmaker” Jan. 25 at 7:15 p.m., “Brothers” Jan. 26 at 7:15 p.m., “A Matter of Size” Jan. 28 at 7:15 p.m. and “Jews and Baseball” Jan. 29 at 3 p.m. $10, $5 students, $35 festival pass; visit jewishcinemams.com.

Art House Cinema Downtown Jan. 29, at Russell C. Davis Planetarium (201 E. Pascagoula St.). Films include “Into the Abyss” at 2 p.m. and “The Way” at 5 p.m. Popcorn and beverages sold. $7 per film; visit msfilm.org.

“The Goat Rodeo Sessions” Jan. 31, 6:30 p.m., at Tinseltown (411 Riverwind Drive, Pearl). Yo-Yo Ma headlines the concert simulcast from House of Blues Boston. $14, $13 seniors and students, $12 children; call 601-936-5856.

MUSIC Gordon Lightfoot Jan. 25, 8 p.m., at Thalia Mara Hall (255 E. Pascagoula St.). The Canadian folk singer-songwriter performs. $34-$49; call 800-745-3000.

Facebook Party Jan. 27, 8:30 p.m., at Exposé (4700 Robinson Road Ext., Suite 900). Enjoy music from the N.B.C. Band, Eddie Williams, Cherly Mossingburg, and more. Door prizes given.

For ages 21 and up. Wear upscale attire. BYOB. $10 men, $5 ladies; call 601-622-1637.

Chamber II: Mozart by Candlelight Jan. 28, 7:30 p.m., at Belhaven University Center for the Arts (835 Riverside Drive). The Mississippi Symphony Orchestra gives a performance featuring flautist Sybil Cheesman. $15; call 601-960-1565.

Millsaps Visiting Writers Series Jan. 25, 7:30 p.m., at Millsaps College, Ford Academic Complex (1701 N. State St.), in room 215. Matt Bondurant, author of “The Wettest Country in the World,” is the speaker. Free; call 601-974-1305.

CREATIVE CLASSES Events at Salsa Mississippi Studio and Club (605 Duling Ave.). Call 601-213-6355.

• Dance Grooves and Hip-hop Party. Roger and Tena Long teach Saturdays from 4-5 p.m. $10.

• Wild Salsa Party Jan. 28, 9 p.m. The free salsa class is at 9 p.m., and the Latin dance party is from 10 p.m.-2 a.m. Costumes and animal attire welcome. Door prizes and food included. $10 cover, $5 students with ID. “Feed Your Skin” Cooking Class Feb. 1, 6 p.m., at Viking Cooking School (Township at Colony Park, 1107 Highland Colony Parkway, Ridgeland). Louise Ridgeway shares anti-aging recipes. RSVP. $59; call 601-898-8345.

EXHIBITS AND OPENINGS “Animal Secrets” Jan. 28-May 6, at Mississippi Museum of Natural Science (2148 Riverside Drive).

Children ages 3-8 explore the secret lives of forest animals. $4-$6; call 601-576-6000.

Check jfpevents.com for updates and more listings. To add an event, email all details (phone number, start and end date, and time, street address, cost, URL, etc.) to events@jacksonfreepress.com or fax to 601510-9019. The deadline is noon the Thursday prior to the week of publication. Or add the event online yourself; check out jfpevents.com for instructions.

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JFP-SPONSORED EVENTS

61

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January 25 - 31, 2012

IRON FEATHERS 62

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Grab ya beads and come on out!

Long Reef

Saturday, January 28

NOW OPEN ON TUESDAYS

Jan. 27: Chad Wesley Group

Wednesday,January 25th

9pm, $5 Cover

THIS WEEK

Jan. 28: Phaze 4 9pm, $10 Cover

New Orleans Lunch

with Poâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;boys,Burgers, Philly Cheesesteaks, appetizers.

Every Wednesday: Karaoke | 7:00pm $1 Drafts | $2 Margaritas

Every Thursday:

Ladies Night & Men are Pigs Night featuring Snazz Ladies Get In Free Ladies Win Prizes $2.50 Coors Light Bottle

Bourbon St. in the Quarter (Formely Poets) 1855 Lakeland Drive Jackson, MS

601.987.0808

Thursday, January 26th

New Bourbon St. Jazz Band (DR)

(Blues) 8-11, No Cover

THURSDAY 1/26 Barry Leach (DR)

â&#x20AC;˘ Thursday Night: Ladies Night & Karaoke in The Jazz Bar

FRIDAY 1/27

Wednesday - January 25 KARAOKE

Thursday - January 26 Ladies Night: Ladies Drink Free

Friday - January 27

Ghost Town Saturday - January 28

W 8LI + [MRKW 4EXVMSXW : ERH (SW )UYMW &YGOIX SJ

1SRHE] (SQIWXMGW

Delta Night featuring recording artist Steve Azar @ 8 (RR)

Coming Soon

TUE 2.21: James McMurtry (RR)

7EXYVHE] JSV 1EVXMRMW

Ghost Town

JSV ;IPPW

Sunday - January 29

'PSWI

9 Ball Tournament

3JJIV )RHW 3PH 7UYEVI 6SEH Â&#x2C6; .EGOWSR 17 Â&#x2C6; LXXT WXVMOI IRXIVXEMRQIRX RIX

GRADY CHAMPION

(Blues) 9-1, $5 Cover before 8:30 $10 Cover after 8:30

Tuesday, January 31st

JESSE ROBINSON

(Blues) 6-11, $5 Cover Wednesday,February 1st

SHANE & FRAZIER

(Americana) 8-11, No Cover

THU 2.23: Chris Knight

Blue Plate Lunch with corn bread and tea or coffee

*VMHE] JSV 1EVKEVMXEW

www.myspace.com/popsaroundthecorner

SAT 2.18: Time to Move (RR)

;IHRIWHE] JSV (SQIWXMG &IIVW

&S[PMRK *VII 2SR %PGSLSPMG (VMROW [MXL 'SPPIKI -(

601-961-4747

SAT 2.11: HeARTS Against AIDS

Monday-Thursday

8LYVWHE] 'SPPIKI 2MKLX

(Blues) 9-1, $5 cover before 8:30 $10 cover after 8:30

Saturday, January 28th

8YIWHE] Â&#x2026; ;MRKW

[MRKW JSV

GRADY CHAMPION

Bill & Temperance (DR)

FRI 2.3: Swing de Paris (DR) Colour Revolt with the Weeks (RR)

e m a G g i B e Th MERXW

Friday, January 27th

SATURDAY 1/28

601-487-8710

*E Q M P ] ) R X I V X E M R Q I R X ' I R X I V

BOOKER WALKER

Restaurant open until 9:00

â&#x20AC;˘ Happy Hour in The Jazz Bar Tuesday - Friday 4-7pm 2 -4 -1 Wells, Calls, & Domestics, PLUS $5 appetizers

824 S. State St. Jackson, MS www.clubmagoos.com

(Jazz) 8-11, No Cover

WEDNESDAY 1/25

â&#x20AC;˘ Dinner: 5-10 Tuesday-Saturday

To book a private party please call

CHALMERS & BABY JAN

$8

25

As well as the usual favorites!

Seafood Gumbo, Red Beans and Rice, Burgers, Fried Pickles, Onion Rings and Homemade Soups made daily.

$4.00 Happy Hour Well Drinks! visit HalandMals.com for a full menu and concert schedule

601.948.0888

200 S. Commerce St. Downtown Jackson, Mississippi * Tickets available at www.ticketmaster.com

Thursday, February 2nd

GEESLIN

(Jazz/Rock) 8-11, No Cover

Friday, February 3rd

FEARLESS FOUR

(Funk) 9-1, $5 Cover before 8:30 $10 Cover after 8:30

Saturday, February 4th

KING EDWARD

(Blues) 9-1, $5 Cover before 8:30 $10 Cover after 8:30

119 S. President Street 601.352.2322 www.Underground119.com

jacksonfreepress.com

Lunch 11am - 2pm Monday-Saturday

63

by Bryan Flynn

by Bryan Flynn

THURSDAY, JAN. 26 College basketball (6-8 p.m. ESPN): A ranked Florida Gators team will test Ole Miss at home.

FRIDAY, JAN. 27 NBA (7-9:30 p.m. ESPN): New York Knicks travel to South Beach to take on the Miami Heat. For some reason this is a very slow night in sports.

SATURDAY, JAN. 28 College football (3-6 p.m. NFL Network): Top college seniors flock to Mobile, Ala., to take part in the Senior Bowl for an opportunity to impress the NFL scouts.

SUNDAY, JAN. 29 NFL (6-9 p.m. NBC): Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the last chance for New Orleans Saintsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; fans to see Drew Brees until next season. He leads the NFC against the AFC in the Pro Bowl in Hawaii. I am sure there will be plenty of Tim Tebow fans there as well.

MONDAY, JAN. 30 College basketball (6-8 p.m. ESPN 2): Two of the best womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s college basketball teams face each other as Connecticut travels to Duke.

TUESDAY, JAN. 31 College basketball (6-8 p.m. ESPN U): No. 1-ranked Kentucky faces SEC East foe Tennessee at home in Rupp Arena.

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 1 College basketball (7-9 p.m. CBS Sports Network): So. Miss. can help their chances to make it to the big dance with a home win over Memphis.

Playing in the Senior Bowl Saturday is former Mississippi State running back Vick Ballard. This week gives Ballard the chance to impress NFL scouts before the NFL Combine and the 2012 NFL Draft. I wish him all the luck in the world.

Follow Bryan Flynn at jfpsports.com, @jfpsports and at facebook.com/jfpsports.

Mississippians Headed to the Big Game

M

ississippi was going to be well represented in the Super Bowl regardless of which teams remained after the NFL Playoffs last Sunday. All four teams on the gridiron had players from our state.

Even the two teams that lost had some Mississippi flavor. The San Francisco 49ers boasted Patrick Willis from the University of Mississippi and Anthony Dixon from Mississippi State University, both Conerly Award winners. The Baltimore Ravens had Parnell McPhee from MSU and Michael Oher from Ole Miss.

Six players with Mississippi ties are in the mix for a Super Bowl title on the two teams left. It would have been seven players, but Stacy Andrews, guard for the New York Giants, is done for the year due to pulmonary embolisms in both his lungs.

Andrews was a backup offensive lineman, and doctors expect him to make a full recovery and resume his playing career.

The New England Patriots have the most players with Mississippi ties on their roster. Two players played high-school football in Mississippi; one is from MSU and one from Ole Miss.

Rookie running back Stevan Ridley attended Trinity Episcopal High School in Natchez. Ridley was considered the sixth best overall football player in Mississippi and 21st overall in the country by sports webstite Rivals.com his senior season.

Ridley went to Louisiana State University to play college football. He left after his junior season to declare for the NFL Draft where the Patriots selected him on the 73rd overall pick in the third round of the 2011 draft.

Stephen Gostkowski was a standout player at Madison Central High School where he earned all-state honors in three sports: football, baseball and soccer. Gostkowski helped lead Madison Central to a state title in baseball during his senior season.

Baseball is where Gostkowski got his start in college with a partial scholarship.

He walked on to the football team at the University of Memphis and earned a full scholarship because of his kicking abili-

ties. New England drafted Gostkowski with the 118th overall pick in the fourth round of the 2006 NFL Draft. He faced major pressure as a rookie replacing Patriots kicking legend Adam Vinatieri who had signed with the Indianapolis Colts as KEITH ALLISON

Three football games left, but only one really counts. Plenty of basketball is on the way, and baseball is knocking on the door.

New England Patriot placekicker Stephen Gostkowski graduated from Madison Central High School in 2002. He is one of six players with Mississippi ties going to Super Bowl XLVI, which takes place Feb. 5.

a free-agent. Vinatieri was known for his game winning kicks in big playoff games and Super Bowls. Gostkowski made all eight of his field-goal kicks in the playoffs as a rookie.

BenJarvus Green-Ellis will represent the Ole Miss Rebels in the Super Bowl. Green-Ellis has earned the nickname â&#x20AC;&#x153;law firmâ&#x20AC;? because of his multi-part name. Green-Ellis came to UM after he transferred from Indiana. His senior year he rushed for 1,137 yards for the Rebels with five 100-yard rushing games with six touchdowns. He is just the second running back in Ole Miss history to rush for 1,000 yards in back-to-back seasons. The Associated Press selected Green-Ellis for first team All-SEC his senior season.

Green-Ellisâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; path to in the NFL was

not straightforward. New England signed him as an undrafted free agent in 2008 right out of college. The team moved him to the practice squad and called him up to the 53-man active roster in October of that year. Once he made the active roster, Green-Ellis started three games and played in nine others. He finished his rookie season with 275 yards and five touchdowns.

The final Patriot with Mississippi ties is defensive tackle Kyle Love from Mississippi State. Love is part of the defensiveline rotation for New England, where he backs up nose guard Vince Wilfork in the 3-4 defense (three down defensive linemen and four linebackers). When New England is in the 4-3 defense (four down defensive linemen and three linebackers), Love moves to defensive tackle and starts opposite Wilfork. Love had 33 tackles and three sacks this season.

Love made 34 tackles his senior season with MSU in 2009, and the Patriots signed him as an undrafted free agent in 2010. He played in nine games his rookie season and in all 16 games this season.

Two Conerly winners are on the New York Giants roster. Both quarterback Eli Manning and linebacker Michael Boley won the award. Manning, who played for Ole Miss, won: in 2001 and 2003.

Manning broke all his fatherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s records at UM before the end of his college career.

He is only the fifth quarterback in SEC history to throw for more than 10,000 career yards in college. Manning set 47 school records (game, season and career) before he left school.

This season, with brother Peyton hurt, Manning finally has a chance to surpass Peyton with two Super Bowl rings.

No doubt, Manning has joined the NFLâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s elite quarterbacks alongside Drew Brees, Tom Brady, Aaron Rodgers and Peyton.

Former Southern Miss Golden Eagle Michael Boley won the Conerly Trophy in 2004â&#x20AC;&#x201D;the year after Manning left collegeâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;and was named Conference-USA defensive player of the year. The Giants signed Boley as an unrestricted free agent in 2009 after he started his career with the Atlanta Falcons.

Bryanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Rant â&#x20AC;˘ Full Time Ainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Magic

January 25 - 31, 2012

I 64

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Mediterranean Fish & Grill presents

Central Mississippi Blues Society, Inc. presents

International Blues

Eddie Cotton Friday & Saturday • 9:00pm

with King Edward Sunday • 6:00pm Open Mic Night Every Thursday • 8:30pm -Live Music Every WednesdayFish Special $10.99 with two sides M-F until 6:30

Free

6550 Old Canton Rd, Ridgeland, Ms medfishgrill.com • 601--956-0082

Thank You for voting us as a finalist in the Best of Jackson 2012!

Join Us For Our Lunch Buffet 11-2 | Monday - Friday

Happy Hour Everyday 4p-7p

Late Night Happy Hour Sun - Thur, 10p - 12a

(Donations are tax deductible)

Daily Lunch Specials

Live Entertainment By:

January 23 - 27, 2012

Includes: Dessert, Iced Tea, & tax. Take Out Orders are welcomed.

Mon | Chicken Alfredo or Meatloaf Pie

January 27

Luchenbach

Wed | Smoked Pork Loin or Country Fried Steak

9:00pm | $5.00 Cover

Thu | Chicken & Bowtie Pasta or Ham & Hashbrown Casserole

-Voted 2011 Best Of Jackson-

Fri | Catfish Parmesan or Beef Brisket

1st: Best Hangover Food • 3rd: Best Plate Lunch Good Showing: Red Beans & Rice

601-362-6388

1410 Old Square Road • Jackson

601.978.1839

6270 Old Canton Rd. Jackson, MS 39211

Each year we send winners of our local blues competition to the International Blues challenge in Memphis. We need your help sending the 2011 winners, Chris Gill, D’Mar and the Dexter Allen Band to Memphis.

Saturday January 28 F Jones Corner 303 North Farish St. 7:00 - 11:00 PM $5 Cover

$10 Daily Lunch Specials

Tue | Peppersteak over Rice or Shrimp Scampi

Competition Fundraiser

• Live Music Every Friday & Saturday Night NO COVER CHARGE! • $3 Bloody Mary’s & Mimosas Every Saturday & Sunday until 6pm 6791 Siwell Rd. Byram, MS • 601.376.0777 www.reedpierces.com

Follow us on Facebook

The Dexter Allen Band • Chris Gill and D’Mar Stevie J • Jarekus Singleton • Sherman Lee Dillon • Chris Gill • D’Mar • Abdul Rasheed Pat Brown • Dennis Fountain • Johnny Sharp Blues Man • Dwight Ross • Malcolm Shepherd King Edward

Win Great Prizes With Our Raffle!

For more information please call

601.983.1148 sponsored by the Central Mississippi Blues Society, Inc.

ARTY P L A U ANN E FOR TH

BIG E M A G

Shows Start at 10:00

January 26 With $5 Top Shelf Drinks

Ladies Drink Free ALL NIGHT! Free Admission for ALL!

Enjoy 65¢ Wings Wings and Karaoke Night

$4 Drink Specials all night

saturday JAN 28 Live Band:

SMASH It’s their last show before they appear on BET’s show 106 & Park on Feb. 1st.

1428 Old Square Road in Jackson 601.713.2700 lastcallsportsgrill.com

Amazin’ Lazy Boi Band $5 Cover All Night

January 27 Jessie “Guitar“ Smith & Norman Clark $10 Cover All Night

January 28 International Blues Competition Fundraiser featuring Chris Gill, D’Mar, Dexter Allen, King Edward & many others....

7-11p • $5

Jarekus Singleton Midnight-Until • $10

Live Music During Lunch• OPEN LATE SECURITY PROVIDED

THE ONLY PLACE FOR THE BIG GAME THANKS FOR VOTING FOR US! WED. JAN 25 LADIES NIGHT & KARAOKE WITH MATT COLLETTE

THURS. JAN 26 BUD LIGHT NIGHT! $2 LONGNECKS & $2 PINTS FRI. JAN 27 BRIAN JONES

SAT. JAN 28 $5 SHOTS! MON. JAN 30 IN-DA-BIZ NITE

2-FOR-1 SPECIAL

TUES. FEB 01

JACKPOT TRIVIA

• GIANT 375 SQ FT.

TELEVISION IN PARKING LOT

• DRINK SPECIALS • BEER SPECIALS • WIN PRIZES EVERY QUARTER

INCLUDING MADDEN ‘12 FOR PS3

• FREE SCHWAG • CROWN ROYAL GIRLS

jacksonfreepress.com

TOp Shelf Tuesday

65

Grazie!

Thank You for voting us One of the Best Italian Restaurants in Jackson!

Best of Jackson 2008 - 2011

%*/&+BDLTPO Paid listyour yourrestaurant.r restaurant.r Paid advertising advertising section. section. Call Call 601-362-6121 601-362-6121 x11 x1 totolist

Best Fried Chicken In Town & Best Fried Chicken in the USA -Best of Jackson 2003-2011-Food & Wine Magazine-

Lunch: Sun. | 11am-2pm Dinner: Tues. -Sat. | 5pm-9pm

601-919-2829

5417 Lakeland Drive ~ Flowood, MS 39232

THANK YOU

forâ&#x20AC;Šcontinuingâ&#x20AC;Štoâ&#x20AC;Švoteâ&#x20AC;Šus THEâ&#x20AC;ŠBEST!

BEST OF JACKSON FINALIST FOR 2012

707 N Congress St., Jackson | 601-353-1180 Open 11am-2pm, Sunday thru Friday

Lunch specials are listed daily at

www.stevestown.com

Best Burger, Best Veggie Burger, Best French Fries, Best Vegetarian Options

Awesomeness served fresh daily.

601-713-3020 | FAX: 601-713-3021 4654â&#x20AC;ŠMcWillieâ&#x20AC;ŠDriveâ&#x20AC;ŠJackson,â&#x20AC;ŠMSâ&#x20AC;Š

Mon-Thur,â&#x20AC;Š10AMâ&#x20AC;Š-â&#x20AC;Š9PMâ&#x20AC;Š|â&#x20AC;ŠFri-Sat,â&#x20AC;Š10AM-12AM Sunâ&#x20AC;Š11AM-5PM

200 South Lamar St City Centre North 601.714.5683 Follow us on facebook

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January 25 - 31, 2012

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COFFEE HOUSES

Cups Espresso CafĂŠ (Multiple Locations, www.cupsespressocafe.com) Jacksonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s local group of coffeehouses offer high-end Arabica beans, a wide variety of espresso drinks. Wi-fi.

BARS, PUBS & BURGERS

Hal and Malâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s (200 S. Commerce St. 601-948-0888) Pub favorites meet Gulf Coast and Cajun specialties like red beans and rice, the Oyster Platter or each dayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s blackboard special. Best of Jackson winner for Live Music Venue for multiple years running.

Burgers and Blues (1060 E. County Line Road, Ridgeland 601-899-0038) Al Stamps (of Cool Alâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fame) does it again with his signature approach to burgers, chicken, wraps, seasoned fries and so much more. Plus live music and entertainment!

Cherokee Inn (960 Briarfield Rd. 601-362-6388) Jacksonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x153;Best Hole in the Wall,â&#x20AC;? has a great jukebox, great bar and a great burger. Plate lunches, cheesy fries and tons more, including a full bar and friendly favorites.

Cool Alâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s (4654 McWillie, 601-713-3020) A Best of Jackson fixture, Cool Alâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s signature stacked, messy, decadent, creative burgers defy adjectives. And donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget the fries!

Fenianâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pub (901 E. Fortification St. 601-948-0055) Classic Irish pub featuring a menu of traditional food, pub sandwiches and beers such as Guinness and Harp on tap.

Last Call (3716 I-55 N. Frontage Road 601-713-2700) Burgers, sandwiches and po-boys, plus sports-bar appetizers and specialities. Pay-per-view sporting events, live bands.

Martinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Restaurant and Lounge (214 South State Street 601-354-9712) Lunch specials, pub appetizers (jalapeno poppers, cheezsticks, fried pickles) or order from the full menu of po-boys and entrees. Full bar, massive beer selection and live music most nights.

Time Out Sports CafĂŠ (6720 Old Canton Road 601-978-1839) 14 TVs, 1 projector and two big-screens. Daily $9 lunch specials, pub-style appetizers, burgers, seafood and catfish po-boys, salads, and hot entrees including fish, steak and pasta.

Ole Tavern on George Street (416 George St. 601-960-2700) Pub food with a southern flair: beer-battered onion rings, chicken & sausage gumbo, salads, sandwiches and weekly lunch specials. Plus, happy hour 4-7pm Monday through Friday.

Sportsmanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lodge (1120 E Northside Dr. in Maywood Mart 601-366-5441) Voted Best Sports Bar in 2010, Sportmanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t disappoint with plenty of gut-pleasing sandwiches, fried seafood baskets, sandwiches and specialty appetizers.

Underground 119 (119 South President St. 601-352-2322) Jumbo lump crabcakes, crab quesadillas, beef tenderloin parfaits, orange-garlic shrimp, even â&#x20AC;&#x153;lollipopâ&#x20AC;? lamb chops. Add a full bar and mix in great music. Opens 4 p.m.-until, Wed-Sat. Wing Stop (952 North State Street, 601-969-6400) Saucing and tossing wings in a choice of nine flavors, Wing Stop wings are made with care and served up piping hot. Every order is made fresh to order; check out the fresh cut seasoned fries!

Wing Station (5038 Parkway Drive Suite 8, 888-769-9464) Home of the famous Janky Wings. Wing Station has an array of wings including Lemon Pepper, Honey BBQ and Blazin Bird Atomic. Delivery is available.

ASIAN

Pan Asia (720 Harbor Pines Dr, Ridgeland 601-956-2958) Beautiful ambiance in this popular Ridgeland eatery accompanies signature asian fusion dishes and build-your-own stir-frys using fresh ingredients and great sauces.

Fatsumo Sushi (3100 N. State Street, Fondren, 769-216-3574) Sushi favorites and creative new choices blanket the menu of this hip Fondren eatery; fabulous entrees, noodle dishes, sashimi, and a whole range of â&#x20AC;&#x153;sumosâ&#x20AC;? or high-end sushi rolls.

Full bar, patio seating and a great atmosphere!

Fusion Japanese and Thai Cuisine (1002 Treetop Blvd, Flowood 601-664-7588) Specializing in fresh Japanese and Thai cuisine, Fusion has an extensive menu featuring everything from curries to fresh sushi.

AMERICAN/SOUTHERN CUISINE

Another Broken Egg (1000 Highland Colony #1009 in Renaissance, 601.790.9170) Open Daily 7am-2pm for breakfast, brunch and lunch. Egg, benedict and omelet dishes, pancakes, waffles, specialties, burgers, salads and sandwiches. Mimosas, coffees and more!

The Copper Iris Catering Company (115 N. State St. 601-961-7017) Fresh soups, stacked sandwiches, creative salads and daily hot lunch specials. Across from Old Capitol; available for catering and office delivery w/min. order. M-F; 11-5.

Two Sisters Kitchen (707 N. Congress St. 601-353-1180) Frequent Best of Jackson winner for fried chicken offers a buffet of your choice of veggies, a salad bar, iced tea & one of four homemade desserts. Lunch only. Mon-Friday, Sun.

Paid advertising section.

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Voted One of the Best Italian Restaurants Best of Jackson 2011

BAKERY

Broad Street Bakery (4465 Interstate 55 N. 601-362-2900) Hot breakfast,coffee espresso drinks, fresh breads and pastries, gourmet deli sandwiches, quiches, soups, pizzas and dessert.

For Heaven’s Cakes (4950 Old Canton Road 601-991-2253) Cakes and cupcakes for all occasions including weddings, parties, catered events.

Beagle Bagel (4500 I-55 North, Suite 145, Highland Village 769-251-1892) Fresh bagels in tons of different styles with a variety of toppings including cream cheese, lox, eggs, cheese, meats and or as full sandwiches for lunch. Paninis, wraps and much more!

VEGETARIAN

High Noon Café (2807 Old Canton Road in Rainbow Plaza 601-366-1513) Fresh, gourmet, tasty and healthy defines the lunch options at Jackson’s own strict vegetarian (and very-vegan-friendly) restaurant.

910 Lake Harbour Dr. Ridgeland 601-956-2929 Monday - Saturday 5 - until

BARBEQUE

Hickory Pit Barbeque (1491 Canton Mart Rd. 601-956-7079) The “Best Butts in Town” features BBQ chicken, beef and pork sandwiches along with burgers and po’boys.

Haute Pig (1856 Main Street, 601-853-8538) A “very high class pig stand,” Haute Pig offers Madison diners BBQ plates, sandwiches, poboys, salads, and their famous Hershey bar pie.

Lumpkins BBQ (182 Raymond Rd. Jackson 866-906-0942) Specializing in smoked barbeque, Lumpkin’s offers all your favorites for on-site family dining or for catered events, including reunions, office events, annivesaries, weddings and more.

Soulshine pizza

PIZZA

would like to extend their thanks to everyone who voted for us as a finalist for best pizza in Best of Jackson 2012!

The Pizza Shack (1220 N State St. 601-352-2001) 2009 and 2010 and 2011’s winner of Best Pizza offers the perfect pizza-and-a-beer joint.

Creative pizza options abound along with sandwiches, wings, salads and even BBQ. Sal & Mookie’s (565 Taylor St. 601-368-1919) Pizzas of all kinds plus pasta, eggplant parmesan and the fried ravioli. Best Kid’s Menu & Best Ice Cream in the 2011 Best of Jackson. Plus, Pi(e) Lounge in front offers great drinks and a fun atmosphere for catching up with friends.

Come by and taste the pizzas that have made soul shine jackson’s best for 11 years and counting!

ITALIAN

BRAVO! (4500 Interstate 55 N., Jackson, 601-982-8111) Wood-fired pizzas, vegetarian fare, plus creative pastas, beef, and seafood specials. Awardwinning wine list, Jackson’s see-and-be-seen casual/upscale dining.

Cerami’s (5417 Lakeland Drive, Flowood, 601-919-28298) Southern-style Italian cuisine features their signature Shrimp Cerami (white wine sauce, capers artichokes) along with veal, tilapia, crawfish, chicken and pasta dishes. Now with liquor license!

Fratesi’s (910 Lake Harbour, Ridgeland, 601-956-2929) “Authentic, homey, unpretentious” that’s how the regulars describe Fratesi’s, a staple in Jackson for years, offering great Italian favorites with loving care. The tiramisu is a musthave!

Voted“Best pizza in Mississippi” by mississippi magazine EE LOCATIONS THR

(622) 533-7685 NOW OPEN

IN OXFORD ON THE SQUARE

STEAK, SEAFOOD & FINE DINING

(601) 919-2000

Old FANNIN ROAD / Reservior

Crab’s (6954 Old Canton Rd., Ridgeland, 601-956-5040) Crab’s Seafood Shack offers a wide variety of southern favorites such as fried catfish and boiled shrimp. Full bar complete with multiple televisions for all of your favorite sporting events.

Eslava’s Grille (2481 Lakeland Drive, 601-932-4070) Danny Eslava’s namesake feature Latin-influenced dishes like ceviche in addition to pastas, steaks, salads and other signature seafood dishes.

Rocky’s (1046 Warrington Road, Vicksburg 601-634-0100) Enjoy choice steaks, fresh seafood, great salads, hearty sandwiches and much more in the “polished casual” dining room. Open 24/7 in the Riverwalk Casino.

(601) 856-8646

THE TOWNSHIP AT COLONY PARK

www.soulshinepizza.com we cater in the metro area!

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Best Butts In Town!

since 1980

601-956-7079

1491 Canton Mart Rd. • Jackson

jacksonfreepress.com

MEDITERRANEAN/GREEK/INDIAN

Mediterranean Fish & Grill (The Med- 6550 Old Canton Rd./601-956-0082) Serving a fabulous selection of fish, gyros, and heart-healthy vegetarian food for over 10 years. Now serving fried catfish & bone-in pan trout.

Aladdin Mediterranean Grill (730 Lakeland Drive 601-366-6033) Delicious authentic dishes including lamb dishes, hummus, falafel, kababs, shwarma and much more. Consistent award winner, great for takeout or for long evenings with friends.

Mezza (1896 Main St., Suite A, Madison 601-853-0876) Mediterranean cuisine and wood fired brick oven pizzas. Come experience the beautiful patio, Hookahs, and delicious food. Beer is offered and you are welcome to bring your own wine.

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We Say Thank You For Your Votes and Your Support!

Finalist For Best Caterer

Finalist For Best New Restaurant

2947 Old Canton Rd Suite G • Fondren Village • Jackson, MS 39216 • 601.983.4450

Ch ocolate Co vered St rawb erries

Valentine ’s Day

It’s ALWAYS FRESH in the

Order Early Open Sunday

February 12th 12 to 5

6030 I-55 North- EXIT 102B (601) 977-9040

Mon-Sat 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. | 601-362-9553 www.nandyscandy.com

January 25 - 31, 2012

You spoke up. We’re speaking back.

68

Capital City Beverages distributed by

M I S S I S S I P P I ’ S C O M P L E T E B E E R S O U RC E

Ask for these beers at stores and restaurants in Central Mississippi.

Can’t find these beers? Call 601-956-2224 for more information.

facebook.com/capitalcitybev

Congratulations to our founder, Jay Long, for being voted a Rising Entrepreneur and Best Local Professor finalist! And thanks to the Jackson Free Press for promoting this event!

5352 Lakeland Drive Suite1650 Flowood, MS 601-992-3100

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10% OFF on any cell phone or camera battery

Expires 2/1/12

601.932.2250

4220 Lakeland Dr. Flowood, MS 39232 located at the intersection of Airport Rd. & Lakeland Dr. www.batteryworldonline.com

Thank You For Voting Us One of the Best Florist In The Metro

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget to order early for Valentineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day! â&#x20AC;˘ Floral Design â&#x20AC;˘ Candles â&#x20AC;˘ Gifts â&#x20AC;˘ Custom Baskets

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398 Hwy. 51 â&#x20AC;˘ Ridgeland, MS (601) 853-3299 â&#x20AC;˘ www.villagebeads.com

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t Shop Bargain Boutique for Great Deals on Fall and Winter Clothing!

January 25 - 31, 2012

As the cold weather begins to turn warm, we have to make room for spring clothing. Shop now for GREAT DEALS to complete your winter wardrobe and add new items for next year.

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Thank you for voting us one of the Best Thrift/Consignment Stores!

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In addition to our FABULOUS womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s clothing, we also have a large selection of menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s clothing as well as home items. Stop by and let us help you update your look throughout the year. And remember, we get NEW merchandise daily so check back often.

5070 Parkway Drive, Jackson | 601.991.0500 Mon-Fri 9:30am-6pm | Sat 9:30am-5pm FIND US ON FACEBOOK!

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k n a Th You for voting us one of The Best Dentists in Jackson!

Highland Village 4500 I55 North, ste 238 jackson, MS 39211 Tel: 601-366-1117 Fax: 601-366-1772 Rusty Riley, DMD general & cosmetic dentistry

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200 Trace Colony Park, Suite B â&#x20AC;˘ Ridgeland, MS 39157 601-856-0625

460 Briarwood Dr. | Jackson, MS | Phone: 601.709.4610 | Fax: 601.709.4611