v17n11 - Best of Jackson 2019

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VOL 17 NO. 11 // JANUARY 23 - FEBRUARY 5, 2019 // SUBSCRIBE FREE FOR BREAKING NEWS AT JFPDAILY.COM

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contents

JACKSONIAN

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ON THE COVER design by Kristin Brenemen and Zilpha Young

4 Editor’s Note 6 Talks

6 Assault on Crime City officials are aiming to cure the violence virus.

10 Tall Tales of the City What stories do you want to tell about Jackson?

Jennifer Bell

J

ennifer Bell’s goal is to turn great athletes into great men, while allowing them to play the game they love, she says. She is the current Adult Semi-Pro Football team owner and coach of the 601 Vipers, which is affiliated with the Mid-south Elite Football League, and the co-commissioner of the league.

“This is the most humbling job I’ve had, because I have the responsibility of making a great impact in the city of Jackson, and surrounding areas,” she says.

Bell, 38, attended Terry High School and received her bachelor’s degree in early childhood education from Mississippi State University in 2002. During college, she started working as an office manager for Westside Auto in Jackson and has held the position ever since.

Her football interest didn’t materialize until three years ago, when her son played in high school. Her then-fiancé Terry Hawkins Jr. owned a team in the league. So she quickly grew her love for the game. In August 2018, the commissioner, Brian Ledger, asked her to become the co-commissioner.

Bell helps manage the league, ensuring that the teams follow all rules and regulations. She also handles the media and communications department. She served as a former chief executive officer of the Mississippi Legacy Semi Pro Football team for a year.

Check out this year’s winners and finalists.

12 People

Bell says one drawback is that the league, which covers Jackson and the surrounding area, is not heavily known for producing NFL players.

“Nobody really knows about these leagues because it’s never publicized,” she says. “We also have a difficult time finding practice and game facilities.”

To remedy this, Bell is looking for ways to increase exposure for the league and the team. She also encourages her players to share videos from games.

In order for a player to be added to the roster, they must agree to give back to the community.

“If my players skip a community service event without good reasoning, instead of making them pay money, I make them run the entire practice,” Bell says.

Wives and girlfriends of players in the league also participate in community-service events geared specifically toward women and children. In 2018, the team as a whole donated and delivered more than 299 pounds of food, including 249 meals to families in need and to the Mississippi Food Network.

The league’s season begins March 2. For more information, visit midsouthelitefootball.com.

—Armani T. Fryer

17 Community & Culture 22 Music & Nightlife 26 Food 36 Urban Living 46 events 48 sPORTS 50 music listings 52 Puzzles 53 astro 53 Classifieds

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Brandon Smith

12 Best of Jackson

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publisher’s note

by Todd Stauffer, Publisher

I

’ve told the story a lot now. When we first launched the Jackson Free Press, that very first issue also had a ballot in it for what we dubbed “Best of Jackson.”

In 2002-2003, people were down on Jackson. (Maybe even more than they are today, potholes aside.) Our local economy needed a boost. Our local entrepreneurs needed to be celebrated, and our local artists, musicians, professionals and service providers needed to be noticed.

So, we launched the Best of Jackson ballot with plans for a BOJ issue. We had rules about who could place and win, as we always tried to lean toward the best local option in a category. We didn’t want to know that some people remember “Pizza Hut” when they see the word “Pizza” since that name has been drilled into their heads by billions

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We wanted to lift up the locals that are most unique about us.

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of dollars of advertising. We wanted to lift up the locals for taking a chance and putting out a shingle.

For the record, sometimes a local business outgrows the Best of Jackson awards—for most categories, next year, we’ll be retiring Babalu from contention, for instance. Understand that we love Babalu, and we’re proud as all get-out that they started in Jackson, but they’re now headquartered in Georgia and were recently listed as one of fastest-growing chains in the country

by RestaurantBusinessOnline.com, so we’ll need to ease them out of some categories next year.

We don’t begrudge them success, and that doesn’t mean we won’t be stopping by every so often for a margarita and some guac. We just want Best of Jackson to celebrate and lift up those things that are most unique about us.

Fortunately, some things have changed in the past 17 years for Jack-

son—one of which are the fantastic number of dining options we can now celebrate as local. If I were to call one name it might be Aplós—tons of recognition for them this year. If I called a second name, it might be Mama Nature’s Juice Bar, run by local folks who are really taking us in the right direction nutritionally. And while they haven’t been around yet to hit the Best of Jackson ballot, let’s take note of all of the hardworking, risk-taking folks who’ve opened up in Cultivation Food Hall in the District at Eastover, starting businesses and giving us some new tastes we’ve never had in Jackson. That’s a really nice development to see.

Things that don’t make us happy are the closing of Rainbow Co-op and High Noon Café—we certainly hope to see them back again in some form or fashion. Lucky Town’s announcement that they’d close in midtown is also gutwrenching. And we still miss La Finestra. (OK, I know. It’s been a while.)

Good news is the big refresh to BRAVO!, continued success for Parlor Market, Barrelhouse, Westin Jackson, Fine & Dandy, and so many other fabulous additions to Jackson’s food scene.

Everyone seems to have navigated the steakhouse musical chairs fairly well (at least, the customers have) and stalwarts like Walker’s, Char and Tico’s continue to shine.

The people are the folks who really make the Best of Jackson what it is, and that’s one reason why we continue to have such a large ballot that gives us such a headache to double-check (all y’all ballot-stuffers out there know who you are—the system works, people),

Delreco Harris / File Photo

Celebrating the Best

Each year, we use Best of Jackson to highlight the best local businesses, people and organizations in the city.

count, write up and factcheck. (If you see any errors let us know, and we’ll correct them—but there should be few enough of them with this team!)

Speaking of people, the people who put this issue together are led by none other than the fantastic Amber Helsel on words (and assignments) and the fabulous Kristin Brenemen on art.

It wouldn’t happen without them, and particular in this year when Donna Ladd was dealing with cancer, surgeries, recovery and all the fun that goes with it. Kimberly Griffin and Andrea Dilworth handled advertising and business issues with aplomb, while Zilpha Young helmed the ad design desk, churning out fantastic work quickly, creatively and effectively for our clients.

We say goodbye with this issue to Micah Smith, our long-time music edi-

contributors

Nate Schumann

Sarah Kate Pollard

Armani T. Fryer

A graduate of USM, Editorial Assistant Nate Schumann loves consuming stories, whether that story be in the form of a book, a comic, a television series, etc. He compiled the music listings.

Sarah Kate Pollard is a senior at Marymount Manhattan College, photographer and writer. Her hobbies include trying to be witty, reading, art and connecting with humans. She wrote Best of Jackson blurbs.

Armani T. Fryer is a young journalist who loves meeting people and gaining positive vibes. He wrote Best of Jackson stories and the Jacksonian.

tor and slightly shorter-time associate editor, who made a point of giving us a long transition, training his replacement (everybody welcome Nate Schumann to the staff ) and working on tons of Best of Jackson stuff as he bid his farewell. We hope to have him still as a writer on occasion and as a member of the JFP family for the rest of his life.

This month we welcome Ashton Pittman to the staff reporter position covering state issues—the perfect transition from a fantastic fall as a freelancer.

We, after all, expect a lot of state issues this year, not to mention important elections, and we know Ashton is up to the task. We also welcome a new reporting intern, Taylor Langele, who has jumped into the deep end covering the City of Jackson for us and is nailing it.

It’s a new year, and you hold in your hands (if you’ve got the print edition) a fantastic testament to so many of the things that are great about living in Jackson. Hold onto this issue, try some new stuff, check out places you haven’t been in a while, and always feel free to tell them where you read about them. We thank you for the opportunity to bring you the Best of Jackson each year, and we hope you enjoy this edition. Cheers!

If you’re a finalist or winner and would like to attend the Best of Jackson party on Jan. 27, please write party@ jacksonfreepress.com to RSVP. Unfortunately the public list is full, but finalists and winners are still welcome to RSVP. Thanks!

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news,

storytelling & re, ir tu

cu l

TALK JXN

“We talk, we talk, we talk, we talk. Nothing happens, nothing happens, nothing happens.”

@JXNFREEPRESS

@JACKSONFREEPRESS

—Councilman Tillman on the need for social programs @JXNFREEPRESS

ce eren rev

Jackson’s Tripartite Assault on Crime

by Taylor Langele

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CITY OF JACKSON

I

t was a cloudy Sunday when Pastor Anthony Longino reached for his keys to open the doors of New Bethany Missionary Church on Hill Avenue for service on the morning of Jan. 13.

On this day, though, the minister did not get beyond the concrete step before 22-year-old Marques Hamilton allegedly pulled a firearm, shot Longino in his head and took his truck.

Later the same day on Jones Street, one street over from New Bethany, neighbors looked out their windows to see a mass of police officers ranging from K9 units to armored humvees searching for suspects in a comprehensive sweep of the Washington Addition.

A young woman went outside and began a recording for Facebook Live.

“Heard that a man was killed around the street from me, a pastor, he was opening up his church and somebody shot him in the face and robbed him and took his truck,” she said while recording, “and now they umm lookin’. They have one guy, but they lookin’ for another one.

“They say they gone terrorize Jackson until they find’m because it was wrong how they did that man. They not playin so if you don’t want to get beat up, go to jail or harassed, the best thing for you to do is stay in the house cause it’s too cold anyway,” she continued.

During a traffic stop on Jones Street, police charged 61-year-old George Robinson with a misdemeanor for failure to obey a police office and resisting arrest, but police have not provided names of any officers involved. During the altercation, witnesses say that police slammed Robinson to the ground and perhaps hit him in the head with a flashlight.

George Robinson then died at the University of Mississippi Medical Center two days later, on Tuesday.

The mayor sent out a cryptic press release late Wednesday afternoon about Robinson’s death, without naming him, saying, “we believe that the circumstances are serious enough to warrant a thorough investigation.” Soon afterward, JPD Chief James Davis held a follow-up

JPD Chief James Davis faced a double crisis that started Jan. 13—the murder of a preacher in the Washington Addition, followed by allegations that an officer may have killed a different man while looking for the murderer.

press conference to address the rumor.

“We started our own investigation,” Davis said, then confirming that the stop happened while police looked for the killers of Longino in the Washington Addition Sunday morning.

The latest report from the City came a week later. “The investigation into the death of George Robinson is still under-

way. At this time, the City of Jackson is still awaiting the results of the autopsy report. We will communicate the progress of this investigation once more information becomes available,” the short press statement from the mayor’s office said.

If ruled a homicide, Robinson’s death would be the 11th of 2019 as of Jan. 18, a rough start for the year.

‘Go Get ’Em Policing The latest murders in Jackson mean that the capital city could be on track for more homicides than in 2018, which was the highest on record since late in the crack era in the 1990s. With citizens nervous and pushing the City of Jackson for a plan, Mayor Chokwe A. Lumumba’s administration released a bullet-point re-

More Best Categories We Left Off

H

by JFP Staff urray! It’s Best of Jackson season again. That means Jacksonians have officially made their favorites in the metro area known. Each year, we include a Best Category We Left Off, and every year, voters make some pretty good choices—this year’s winner, Best Outdoor Activity, for example. Here are some more categories we left off.

Best Pothole and/or Sinkhole

Best Neighborhood

Best Statue

Best Local Cake

Best Place for Comeback Dressing

Best Rumor about Jackson Best Place to Run in the City

TALK JXN

UNDER THE DOME

A Bridge Too Far: ‘No’ to Medicaid Expansion

by Ashton Pittman

H

alf a century ago this year, a fist-fight broke out on the floor of the Mississippi House of Representatives. Fed up with formal debate, Rep. Jerry Wilburn of Mantachie and Rep. Rab Sanderson of Waynesboro cast aside Robert’s Rules of Order and traded blows. Their quarrel moved from the House Chamber to the House cloakroom, and finally to the House cloakroom floor.

When others finally broke the fight up, Wilburn was bleeding near one eye, and Sanderson had knots on his head.

It was early October 1969, and legislators had been contending with two controversial bills. One of the bills sought to implement tax credits to aid private segregation academies that sprang up after courts ordered the desegregation of public schools; the other approved a state Medicaid program and accepted federal funds.

Wilburn and Sanderson were fighting over the details of the latter bill.

With the threat of losing millions in federal funding, the Legislature ultimately passed the Medicaid bill that year, and more than 200,000 residents gained coverage. Mississippi was the next-to-last state to implement the program.

‘Breeding’ Welfare Recipients As the 2019 legislative session heats up, state legislators are again tussling over the Medicaid program and whether or not to accept federal funds that could expand coverage to as many as 300,000 Mississippians.

Conservative Sen. Chris McDaniel, R-Ellisville, and conservative Rep. Robert Foster, R-Hernando, who is running for governor, quarrelled over the topic last week, albeit via a more modern medium.

“It’s impossible to support Obamacare’s Medicaid expansion and be a conservative, for numerous reasons,” State Sen. Chris McDaniel vague-tweeted on Jan. 15, taking aim at Foster, who endorsed Medicaid expansion as part of his platform.

“It’s impossible to be a leader if all you ever do is oppose everything and never offer real solutions to our problems,” Foster shot back that same day.

Medicaid expansion is part of the Affordable Care

“It’s impossible to be a leader if all you ever do is oppose everything.

Act, which detractors and some supporters refer to as “Obamacare.” If Mississippi expands the program, the federal government would cover 100 percent of the costs for the first few years. The federal government’s burden would only drop as low as 90 percent in later years. When legislators first debated implementing Medicaid in 1969, the federal government promised to

cover 87 percent of the cost.

Accepting the expansion would not only cover more, mostly working Mississippians, but it would help save rural hospitals that have struggled to stay solvent since Gov. Phil Bryant rejected expansion in 2013.

Reports surfaced in December indicating some Republicans, including Bryant, were looking at ways to finally expand. Expanding Medicaid now could take away a talking point from Democratic candidate for governor Jim Hood, the current attorney general and a supporter of expansion. Political observers expect he will face Lt. Gov. Tate Reeves, the likely Republican nominee for governor, in November’s election.

Old talking points die hard, though. During the 1969 debate, Coahoma County Republican State Rep. Charles Mabry warned that “Medicaid will simply breed more and more welfare recipients,” while Republican State Sen. Bill Corr of Sardis claimed that “Medicaid will leave the last door of conservatism standing wide open to pure, unadulterated socialism.”

In sharing his contemporary concerns about “Obamacare,” McDaniel has also raised the spectre of socialism. For Reeves, whose role as head of the Mississippi Senate means he sets the policy agenda, Medicaid expansion appears to be a bridge too far.

And so, Reeves made the biggest news of the first two weeks of the legislative session when he made clear last week that he has no intention of joining other Republicans, like Foster and Secretary of State Delbert Hosemann, in considering expansion.

“I am opposed to Obamacare expansion in Mississippi. I am opposed to Obamacare expansion in Missis-

activity, we can direct police resources to those locations, so hopefully we can disrupt crime or stop it from happening,” he said. It is a strategy that also draws complaints about violation of privacy and profiling of “bad” neighborhoods.

Additionally, JPD is launching a body-camera system for police officers to try to curb the public’s distrust. Police officers will receive special training centered around walking the beat in heavily policed areas in order to form positive relationships with the communities in question. Chief Davis emphasized at the special council session the importance of positive police interaction with the community outside the parameters of a criminal investigation.

However, body cameras are controversial in their own right—officers often turn them off, for instance.

Former JPD officer Juan Cloy, who is now running for the Hinds County sheriff’s job, told the Jackson Free Press that a “measured task force” is the most effective measure for short-term policing. Instead of reactionary policing—such as the sweeps of Washington Addition that may have resulted in the death of George Robinson—Cloy recommended building a proactive force with appropriate briefing, training and purpose to replace “go get’m” tactics.

“When you have this huge amount of violence and people don’t feel safe, that has to be the first priority,” said Cloy in response to a question regarding Robinson’s alleged assault. “I know how it gets when emotions are high, but that is why a special task force is necessary in high-crime areas.”

more CRIME p 8

1. “Mississippi Leaders Still ‘Honoring’ Racists, After All These Years” by Ashton Pittman and Donna Ladd 2. “Mississippi May Mandate Ten Commandments and Pledges to State, U.S. Flags in Schools” by Ashton Pittman 3. “Shutdown Hits Mississippi Harder than 90 Percent of States” by Ashton Pittman 4. “Real Violence: 50 Years Ago at Woolworth” by Trip Burns 5. “Due to Murder Spike, Lumumba Pledges More Surveillance, Prevention Efforts” by Taylor Langele

MOST VIRAL EVENTS AT JFPEVENTS.COM: 1. Hot Stove Hall of Fame Evening, Jan. 24 2. Mississippi Blues Marathon, Jan. 26 3. Jewish Cinema Mississippi, Jan. 24-29 4. Vision Quest: The Creatively Fit Program, Jan. 27 5. “Hell in High Water,” Jan. 29-Feb. 10

January 23 - February 5,2019 • jfp.ms

MOST VIRAL STORIES AT JFP.MS:

CRIME port on Friday, Jan. 18 and explained the three-part approach to crime reduction at a special city-council meeting.

The plan’s first step is comprehensive policing reform. The big-ticket item is the Real Time Crime Center budgeted at around $4 million, with State help.

Resources would pay for cameras around areas with frequently criminal activity.

Armed with facial-recognition software and the ability to identify suspects based on height, weight, gender and clothing, these cameras will give officers the ability to find and apprehend suspects moments after a crime has been reported.

Chief James Davis explained the program at a special city council session. “(JPD is) putting cameras all over the city of Jackson where we can monitor activities throughout our community…. If we see anything that is strange or criminal

more MEDICAID p 8

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TALK JXN

state

medicaid from p 7

Rural Broadband Advances

While legislators introduced hundreds of bills, little activity took place on the floor of either chamber during the first two weeks of the legislative session.

Aside from resolutions, the House passed just one bill.

Representatives voted 115-3 for HB 366, known as the Mississippi Broadband Enabling Act. It would allow Mississippi’s 26 not-for-profit electric cooperatives to offer high-speed, broadband internet to their combined 1.8 million electrical customers across the state.

State Public Service Commission Chairman Brandon Presley backs the measure, which could help rural AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis

sippi. I am opposed to Obamacare expansion in Mississippi,” Reeves chanted at a members of the press during a Jan. 18 luncheon at the Capital Club.

With that statement, the chances of Mississippi joining the 37 other states who have expanded Medicaid, like Louisiana, this year narrowed. Despite some hopes, Bryant did not bring up the topic in his final State of the State address last Tuesday.

For now, Medicaid expansion looks like it will be an election issue in 2019—not a legislative one.

Mississippi State House Speaker Philip Gunn, R-Clinton, authored a bill aimed at bringing broadband to more rural parts of the state. He also said he is against Medicaid expansion.

Mississippians whose internet options remain limited to dialup and satellite internet. But the conservative Mississippi Center for Public Policy warned that the bill, authored by Republican House Speaker Philip Gunn, could result in high costs for customers getting broadband through EPAs.

“It seems inevitable that this plan will open the door for a ratepayer and state taxpayer bailout,” the Center’s Brett Kittredge wrote at mspolicy.org.

That bill now goes to the Senate.

In his State of the State Address, Bryant urged lawmakers to pass legislation to raise pay for teachers and to implement foster-care reforms. Those bills will likely come up for a vote later this session.

While leaders have not scheduled votes, lawmakers did introduce a heft of other bills this session. One implements fines on public schools that do not recite the Pledge of Allegiance in the first hour, while another requires recitation of the Ten Commandments.

And similar to the hotly debated 1969 bill to provide tax credits to parents who sent their kids to private schools following desegregation, Sen. Michael Watson, R-Pascagoula, introduced a bill to implement a state income-tax deduction for parents who homeschool or send their kids to private schools.

Monday, Jan. 21, was the last day legislators could introduce regular bills.

Follow Ashton Pittman on Twitter @ashtonpittman.

Email him story tips to ashton@jacksonfreepress.com.

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crime from p 7

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Conflict Resolution

Subsequently, the City of Jackson and a nonprofit run by the mayor’s sister are seeking appropriate funding for a new credible-messengers program. In that violence-prevention strategy, modeled on the Cure Violence approach popular in cities around the country, former criminals are trained to be the mentors and “messengers” who may better reach people likely to get in trouble and commit violence.

Chief Davis admitted the difficulty of policing interpersonal conflict. “Some of these homicides are difficult to police because people are into it with each other, and they are taking the law into their own hands,” Davis told council, “and they are carrying it out by shooting each other to resolve the issues.”

Cure Violence approaches treat violence as a virus that can be halted with the right intervention, including retaliatory shootings within groups, or between those beefing with each other, that can multiply into many shootings. An effective credible-messenger program requires resources, because the former criminals are vetted and trained to do the work, and then paid, which also creates jobs for the formerly incarcerated.

Rukia Lumumba recently an-

nounced that her nonprofit, the People’s Advocacy Institute, was getting seed money of $150,000 from FWD.us, an organization funded by technology giants, to train the first two credible messengers, Terun Moore and Benny Ivey.

“(It is a) better model than just engaging in one form of intervention,” she

“We can look at violence as a disease we have to cure.” said of the credible-messenger alternative to just policing. “They come in at point where the conflict begins, to mediate that conflict, to look at all the reasons conflict exists.” The strategy, she said, “takes into account the expertise and brilliance of

community members, those victims of crime ... and those who have committed harm. … It trains them to be those very people who are out in our community beginning to decrease harm and violence.

“We can look at violence as a disease we have to cure,” she added.

Food, Jobs, Opportunity

However, the city recognizes that making people aware of a disease does not necessarily lead to a cure. The City is targeting hunger and access to education as the most problematic symptoms in underserved communities. Jackson officials say that “Access Centers” are on the way to serve the underdeveloped neighborhoods. Similar programs exist across the country and usually center on helping those with disabilities obtain and maintain gainful employment.

The “Jackson Meals Matter” initiative received a $120,000 grant in September 2018 to help fight hunger in the city. A study by the Food Research and Action Center revealed only about 8 percent of Mississippi children fed through the National School Lunch Program are also signed up for their school’s summer-lunch program.

Twenty-five percent of Hinds County is food insecure, according to Feeding

America, compared to the 13-percent average for the U.S.

In addition to providing more meals through JPS, the campaign will create an online directory for food options in the city. The City’s Department of Human and Cultural Services and the Department of Parks and Recreation will lead the effort.

The City also is focused on providing universal pre-kindergarten to all children growing up in Jackson, and looking to create STEAM centers that can connect high-school seniors with employers and the vocational training needed to move from school to productive employment.

“(When) there is a young person who’s living in a community that is hungry, that feels like a community does not love them, does not support them, doesn’t recognize them …, it is a lot easier perpetrating harm on someone when you don’t feel a [communal] connection” Mayor Lumumba stated at a press briefing on in response to a Jackson Free Press question on Jan. 15

Email city reporting intern at taylor@ jacksonfreepress.com. Editor Donna Ladd also contributed to this story. Also read jacksonfreepress.com/preventingviolence.

Thank You For Making us Finalists In...

Best Caterer

Best Bakery Best Breakfast Best Sandwich Place

JEFF GOOD Best Public Figure Best Urban Warrior Best Place for Pizza Best Italian Restaurant DAN BLUMENTHAL Best Chef Best Vegetarian Options Best Veggie Burger Best Wine List

We Appreciate Your Support!

January 23 - February 5, 2019 • jfp.ms

Best Place for Cocktails Best Fine Dining Best Italian Restaurant Best Restaurant

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Lauren rhoades

The Stories We Tell About Jackson

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What stories do we want the world to know? over again—Jackson is dangerous, for example—we start to believe them.

Fairy tales, especially those rooted in bias, prejudice and fear, begin to sound like facts. Too often, these false narratives hijack the story of our city from those who are most capable of telling it: us.

But all too often, Jacksonians feed into those false stories, too. At some point in time, all Jackson transplants get

asked, “How did you end up here?”, as if we were dropped by parachute into a post-apocalyptic wasteland. This question, asked incredulously, implies that Jackson is an undesirable place to live, and yet people continue to move here.

Are people in Portland asking newcomers to their city, “Of all the places you

engineers, musicians, teachers and students. We are LGBTQ. We are Latin American, African American, Asian American and European American.

Our diversity strengthens us.

Jacksonians stand up for equality.

We honor the legacy of civil-rights activism in our city. We show up at city

ImanI Khayyam / FIle Photo

R

ecently, I met a family visiting Jackson from Knoxville, Tenn. It was their first time in the capital city, and they had just toured the Eudora Welty House, the Pulitzer Prize-winning author’s home turned literary museum. They talked excitedly about what they had learned.

“Jackson is such a lovely place,” they said. “The food is good, the people are nice.”

I nodded and smiled.

“I’m glad you think so,” I replied. “Most people are pleasantly surprised when they visit our city for the first time.”

Then one of them leaned in close, said in an almost-whisper: “My Mississippi in-laws always told me to stay away from Jackson, that it was dangerous.” She paused, then added: “I wish I hadn’t listened to them for so long.”

We hear a lot of stories about our city secondhand from people who don’t live here. Many of them are unflattering, and most are untrue.

In thinking about what I wanted to write for this opinion piece, I kept returning to my conversation with the Knoxville family, and the hundred other similar conversations I’ve had since moving here almost six years ago.

Social scientists have a name for this phenomenon: the illusory truth effect, or the “tendency to believe information to be correct after repeated exposure.” In other words, when we hear the same stories repeated over and

Editor-in-Chief and CEO Donna Ladd Publisher & President Todd Stauffer Associate Publisher Kimberly Griffin Art Director Kristin Brenemen Managing Editor Amber Helsel EDITORIAL State Reporter Ashton Pittman JFP Daily Editor Dustin Cardon City Reporting Intern Taylor Langele Editorial/Events Assistant Nate Schumann Editorial Intern Armani T. Fryer Editorial/Marketing Intern Sarah Pollard Editor-in-Chief’s Assistant Shakira Porter Writers Dawn Dugle, Jenna Gibson, Shameka Hayes,Torsheta Jackson, Natalie Long, Mike McDonald,Tunga Otis, Micah Smith, Brinda Fuller Willis Consulting Editor JoAnne Prichard Morris ART AND PHOTOGRAPHY Advertising Designer Zilpha Young Contributing Photographers Delreco Harris, Imani Khayyam, Ashton Pittman ADVERTISING SALES Digital Marketing Specialist Meghan Garner Sales and Marketing Coordinator Andrea Dilworth

“I’m not saying we should ignore history or facts, or even abandon selfdeprecating humor. But just for a minute, let’s make the illusory truth effect work for us. Let’s practice some radical self-love.”

could live, why on earth would you want to live here?” No, because they trust that others will love their city just as much as they do.

We can do the same.

Jackson deserves better stories.

Jacksonians deserve better stories. I’m not saying we should ignore history or facts, or even abandon self-deprecating humor. But just for a minute, let’s make the illusory truth effect work for us.

Let’s practice some radical self-love.

For more than 15 years, the Best of Jackson awards have spotlighted our favorite restaurants, podcasts, bartenders, museums and more. It is an opportunity to celebrate our city, to tell a different kind of Jackson story.

Here are some stories that I want to tell about Jackson, stories which are as affirming as they are true.

Jackson is a vibrant city, full of diverse, creative people. Jacksonians transform abandoned warehouses into art galleries, start organic farms and found nonprofits that send books to prisoners. We are Muslim, Hindu, Christian, Jewish, Buddhist, atheist and agnostic. We are writers, entrepreneurs,

council meetings and town halls. We protest injustice. We advocate for public spaces that are accessible to people of all abilities. We know our history, and we learn from our history. We campaign. We vote.

Jackson is beautiful. I’m thinking about the architecture downtown, the azaleas, camellias and magnolias, the old neighborhoods shaded by tall trees.

The city is a great place to live. You know this already. It is a city where you can put down roots, start a business or raise a family.

Stories matter. They can build us up or tear us down. What stories do we want the world to know about Jackson?

What stories do we want to tell ourselves about the place we call home?

Let’s start with the stories here in this magazine. The best of the best.

Lauren Rhoades is a writer, culinary creator and lowbrow foodie. She is the founder of former Jackson-based business Sweet & Sauer. Currently she is pursuing an MFA in creative writing at the Mississippi University for Women.

This column does not necessarily reflect the views of the JFP.

BUSINESS AND OPERATIONS Distribution Manager Ken Steere Distribution Damien Fairconetue, Ruby Parks, Eddie Williams ONLINE Web Editor Dustin Cardon Web Designer Montroe Headd CONTACT US: Letters letters@jacksonfreepress.com Editorial editor@jacksonfreepress.com Queries submissions@jacksonfreepress.com Listings events@jacksonfreepress.com Advertising ads@jacksonfreepress.com Publisher todd@jacksonfreepress.com News tips news@jacksonfreepress.com Fashion style@jacksonfreepress.com Jackson Free Press 125 South Congress Street, Suite 1324 Jackson, Mississippi 39201 Editorial (601) 362-6121 Sales (601) 362-6121 Fax (601) 510-9019 Daily updates at jacksonfreepress.com The Jackson Free Press is the city’s awardwinning, locally owned news magazine, reaching over 35,000 readers per issue via more than 600 distribution locations in the Jackson metro area—and an average of over 35,000 visitors per week at www.jacksonfreepress. com. The Jackson Free Press is free for pick-up by readers; one copy per person, please. First-class subscriptions are available for $100 per year for postage and handling. The views expressed in this magazine and at jacksonfreepress.com are not necessarily those of the publisher or management of Jackson Free Press Inc. © Copyright 2019 Jackson Free Press Inc. All Rights Reserved

Email letters and opinion to letters@jacksonfreepress.com, fax to 601-510-9019 or mail to 125 South Congress St., Suite 1324, Jackson, Mississippi 39201. Include daytime phone number. Letters may be edited for length and clarity, as well as factchecked.

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January 23 - February 5, 2019 • jfp.ms

Best Hair Stylist; Best Salon: Molly Gee, Static A Salon

Best Barista: Cody Cox

This year’s winner for Best Hairstylist, Molly Gee, has been in the business since 2014. She owns this year’s winner for Best Salon, Static A Salon, as well When she first attended the Mississippi Institute of Aesthetics, Nails & Cosmetology, she focused on bridal hair styling, but while she was there, she says she found a passion for color and learning new techniques on how to perfect it.

She still loves to do bridal work as well.

“Going on site and to go through that process with people on their special day is really beautiful,” Gee says.

She became the owner of Static A Salon in January 2017.

“We have such an amazing team. Everyone brings something important to the table and we love to work together to perfect a look,” Gee says. “It’s a great atmosphere to be apart of, getting to help someone change their outlook and brighten their day is so important to us.”

The salon has services such as hair cuts for men, women and children; shampoo blowouts; hair extensions; brow tint; Brazilian blowouts; and more. For more information, find the business on Facebook.

—Sarah Pollard

This year’s winner for Best Barista, Cody Cox, has been in the coffee business for what will be 16 years in May. The Holmes County native received a bachelor’s degree in English from Mississippi College in 2001. His first barista job was at Gravity Coffee shop in Clinton during his college days. He began working at Cups Espresso Café in 2009 and became the general manager in 2011.

“I’ve always loved the atmosphere of coffee shops, not to mention I’m a coffee fanatic,” he says. Ever since he started working in the industry, coffee became more than just a drink for him.

“I think it’s very typical that a English major ended majoring in the coffee business,” Cox jokes.

In October 2018, he stepped down as the GM to open his own bakery and coffee shop, Urban Foxes. He and his wife, Molly West, plan to open the business in Belhaven some time this year.

“I love the creativity and connectivity that coffee allows,” he says.

For more information, find Urban Foxes on Instagram.

—Armani T. Fryer

Best Hair Stylist finalists Ashley Buckelew (Razor Sharp, 1645 W. Government St., Suite A, Brandon, 601824-4009) / Hannah Roland (The Hair Lounge, 151 E. Metro Pkwy., Flowood, 601896-3178) / Lindsey Branton (LIV the salon, 160 W. Government St., Brandon, 601814-8731) / Maddison McLeod (Sage Salon & Color Bar, 120 District Blvd. E., Suite D104, 601-487-0368, sagecolorbar.com) / Tiffany Jacobs (Studio J Salon, 151 E. Metro Pkwy., Flowood, 601-212-9130)

finalists Allison Othmani (1800 N. State St.; 4500 Interstate 55 N. Frontage Road, deepsouthpops.com) / Ben Ford (1800 N. State St.; 4500 Interstate 55 N. Frontage Road; deepsouthpops.com) / Joey Tannehill (Cups Espresso Cafe, St. Dominic Hospital, 969 Lakeland Drive, 601-366-0707, cupsespressocafe.com) / Zach Stribling (Cups Espresso Cafe, 374 Ridge Way, Flowood, 601-992-2669, cupsespressocafe.com)

Best Beauty Shop or Salon finalists The Glossary Salon (109 E. Main St., Florence, 601-845-1111, glossaryhairsalon. com) / LIV the salon (160 W. Government St., Brandon, 601-814-8731) / Sage Salon & Color Bar (120 District Blvd. E., Suite D104, 601-487-0368, sagecolorbar.com) / Signature Hair Lounge (6969 Old Canton Road, Suite F1, Ridgeland; 662-436-1506; signaturehairlounge.com) / Studio J Salon (151 E. Metro Pkwy., Flowood, 601-212-9130)

(The Barbershop at Great Scott, 4400 Old Canton Road, Suite 101, 601-984-3500, greatscott.net)

Best Barber: Blake Stevens

January 23 - February 5,2019 • jfp.ms

LAUREN BLAKENEY

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finalists Eric Henderson / Erin Griffin / Lynsie Armstrong / Tiffany Jefferson

Blake Stevens, a second-generation barber has had a passion for cutting hair since childhood. His grandfather started the lineage, and Stevens followed in his footsteps.

He currently works at The Barbershop at Great Scott, specializing in a variety of men’s services, including hair cuts, and shaving and trimming.

In 2007, Stevens received a technical degree in barbering at Hinds Community College. He also served in the U.S. Marines, while cutting hair on the side. He left in 2008 to become a full-time barber.

“It’s been in the family since I was a child, so it’s all I spend my time doing, and I enjoy it,” he says. “I like to mix traditional and old-school styles together, I guess that’s what keeps me skilled and what keeps the customers coming.

“I focus literally all of my time in barbering, and that’s how it has been what it seems like forever.”

For more information, visit greatscott.net.

—Armani T. Fryer finalists Brad Presley (Brad the Barber, 500 Highway 51, Suite W, Ridgeland, 601-906-2172) / Christian D. Favorite (HunterPhillips Salon, 151 E. Metro Pkwy., Suite 49, 601-519-1399) / Lanis Noble (Noble Barber, 1065 Highland Colony Pkwy., Suite F, Ridgeland, 601-8566665, noblebarber.com) / Nic Puckett (The Barbershop at Great Scott, 4400 Old Canton Road, Suite 101, 601-984-3500, greatscott.net)

STEPHEN WILSON / FILE PHOTO

Best Dressed: Nikki Gallagher This year’s winner for Best Dressed, Nikki Gallagher, has been dressing up for years. Her earliest memories start when she was in elementary school.

“I got tired of having to wear play clothes ,and I finally told my mom, ‘Enough is enough, I want to wear all the party clothes for special occasions,’” she recalls.

Gallagher can always remember wanting to look special every day if she could, she says. She even remembers making up excuses to wear fun clothes. Her motto is that she would always be overdressed rather than under. When asked what she believes can change an outfit, she says, “a really interesting pair of shoes can transform any outfit and change something ordinary into something remarkable and memorable.”

—Sarah Pollard

BRANDON SMITH

(Cups Espresso Cafe, 2757 Old Canton Road, 601362-7422, cupsespressocafe.com) COURTESY MOLLY GEE

(219 Garden Park Drive, Suite 200A, Madison, 601853-0054, staticasalon.mysalononline.com)

Are you a finalist? Didn’t get your party invitation? Email party@jacksonfreepress.com or call 601-362-6121 x21

Best Facialist/Esthetician: April Epps (A. Reneé Makeup Artistry, 601-850-7658)

STEPHEN WILSON / FILE PHOTO

finalists Andrew Booth Luckett (WonderLust, 3911 Northview Drive, 337-3789003, wonderlustjackson.com) / Jenifer Simcox (Fondren Public, 2765 Old Canton Road, 769-216-2589) / Jon Michael Webster (Barrelhouse, 3009 N. State St., 769216-3167, barrelhousems.com) / Kevin Tiner (Fondren Public, 2765 Old Canton Road, 769-216-2589) / Kree’ Blackwell (WonderLust, 3911 Northview Drive, 337378-9003, wonderlustjackson.com)

Makeup Artist: Christine Cody (Makeup by Cody, 601-760-2776)

COURTESY NICK WALLACE CULINARY

Christine Cody, this year’s Best Makeup Artist, has been perfecting her craft since 2001. She has worked at many makeup counters and companies in the area, including M.A.C. at Belk in Flowood.

In 2016, she started her business, Makeup by Cody.

She says she loves to stay updated on new trends with all age groups, but what gives her the most inspiration is her customer’s reactions.

“It’s easy to get burnt out on something when you do it for such a long time, but I’m passionate about the people, and it always rewards my soul to really please a customer,” she says.

—Sarah Pollard

COURTESY CHRISTINE CODY

Best Chef: Nick Wallace

(Nick Wallace Culinary, 601-919-6328, nickwallaceculinary.com)

finalists Hannah Roland (The Hair Lounge, 151 E. Metro Pkwy., Flowood, 601-896-3178) / Jess King (Tracy Branch Agency, tracybranch.com) / Kayla Jones (Tracy Branch Agency, tracybranch.com) / Olivia Preston (Tracy Branch Agency, tracybranch.com)

Best Fitness Trainer: Paul Lacoste

(Paul Lacoste Sports, 601-398-0950, paullacoste.com)

Life has thrown just about every obstacle at Paul Lacoste: learning disability, family tragedy, cancer and the kind of West Nile Virus that kills 93 percent of patients. However, he doesn’t let that stop him from his mission to “motivate and inspire Mississippians to live life to the fullest,” he says.

He started Fit4Change a decade ago, encouraging people to make fitness a part of their daily lives.

He does this with a 12-week intense boot camp that requires participants to make a financial buy-in—an accountability check they write, but get back if they complete all 12 weeks of training. This year he takes his mission statewide with partners at Families First for Mississippi and MDHS with boot camps in central Mississippi and Pascagoula.

—Dawn Dugle finalists Curt L. McAfee (KutFit Personal Training) / Hollye Henderson (CrossFit JXN, 1424 Old Square Road, 601-861-4244, crossfitjxn.com) / Misti Garner (Get Fit Studio, 123 Old Fannin Road, Flowood, getfitwithmisti.com) / Natascha Donald (G.I. Jan3 StudioX, 201 Ring Road, Suite 20, Ridgeland)

COURTESY PAUL LACOSTE

finalists Alex Eaton (Aplos, 4500 Interstate 55 N. Frontage Road, Suite 174, 601-714-8989; The Manship Wood Fired Kitchen, 1200 N. State St., Suite 100, 601-398-4562, themanshipjackson.com) / Dan Blumenthal (BRAVO! Italian Restaurant & Bar, 4500 Interstate 55 N. Frontage Road, 601-982-8111, bravobuzz.com) / Derek Emerson (CAET Wine Bar, 3100 N. State St., Suite 102, 601-321-9169, caetwinebar.com; Local 463 Urban Kitchen, 1000 Highland Colony Pkwy., Suite 5002, 601-707-7684, local463.com; Walker’s Drive In, 3016 N. State St., 601-982-2633, walkersdrivein.com) / Jesse Houston (Fine & Dandy, 100 District Blvd. E., 601-202-5050, eatdandy.com)

—Sarah Pollard

finalists Cade Yates (The Face & Body Center Spa, 2550 Flowood Drive, Suite 100, Flowoodfaceandbodycenterspa.com) / Jess King (Tracy Branch Agency, tracybranch. com) / Kristin Bomar (Cole Facial Clinic & Skin Care, 204 E. Layfair Drive, Flowood, colefacialclinic.com) / Sharon Ward (Body Anew Medical Spa, 1040 Gluckstadt Road, Suite B, Madison, bodyanewmedicalspa.com)

—Armani T. Fryer

For Best Chef winner Nick Wallace, “farm-to-table” is a concept that is close to his heart. He developed a love for cooking while working in the kitchen with his grandmothers, Queen Morris and Lennel Donald, on his family’s farm near Edwards, Miss.

In 199, he received an associate degree in food and beverage management from Hinds Community College and joined BRAVO! Italian Restaurant & Bar in 2001.

Two years later, he became the first African American executive chef at the Jackson Marriott Hotel, where he worked until 2008.

In 2013, Wallace moved to executive chef at the Mississippi Museum of Art’s Palette Cafe, which is now La Brioche at the Museum.

He stepped down in 2017 to focus on his own business, Nick Wallace Culinary. NWC works to help local farmers become organic-certified, provides cooking demonstrations, caters for events and more.

“I wanted to work with local farmers more and have solid connection with the people who worked the farms producing the food and are responsible for what ends up on the table here in Mississippi,” he told the Jackson Free Press in January.

In August 2018, Wallace launched “From My Hands to Your Kitchen,” in which he cooks meals in a person’s home kitchen.

For more information, visit nickwallaceculinary.com.

—Dustin Cardon

The motto of this year’s winner for Best Facialist/Esthetician, April Epps, is “pretty makeup starts off with great skin.”

Epps had been a makeup artist for a long time, but in 2008, she decided that she wanted to be able to offer her clients the best of two worlds: makeup and skin care. She attended Mississippi Institute of Aesthetics, Nails & Cosmetology from 2006 to 2007 and then from 2012 to 2013.

She has been in this line of work for more than 15 years, and says she wants to help people take care of their skin. On having healthy skin, she says: “Cleansing, exfoliating and moisturizing are the most important steps to healthy skin,” she says.

January 23 - February 5,2019 • jfp.ms

Jamie Moss, a 20-year vet in the bartending business, started bartending during his college days and never looked back.

At this point, the winner for Best Bartender has been a mainstay at Fenian’s Pub for 10 years and says he hopes to retire as one of the best bartenders in Jackson. Moss is a multi-year winner in Best of Jackson. In the 2018 contest, he won Sexiest Male Bartender and Best Server/Waitperson.

Moss, a Hattiesburg native, moved to Jackson in 1997. In 1999, he stepped into the world of bartending at a chain restaurant in the city.

He says his favorite drinks to mix are an old fashioned and a Manhattan.

COURTESY APRIL EPPS

Best Bartender: Jamie Moss

(Fenian’s Pub, 901 E. Fortification St., 601-948-0055, fenianspub.com)

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Best Local Business Owner: Dale Wilson

Best Massage Therapist: Tiffany Melton

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

finalists Christopher Lockhart (Capital City Kayak, 571-322-6051, capitalcitykayak.com) / Kayla Jones (Spray Tans by Kayla, 504 N. Bierdeman Road, Pearl, 769-972-1138) / Molly Gee (Static A Salon, 219 Garden Park Drive, Suite 200A, Madison, 601-853-0054, staticasalon.mysalononline.com) / Phillip Rollins/DJ Young Venom (Offbeat, 151 Wesley Ave., 601-376-9404, offbeatjxn.com) / Ron Chane (Swell-O-Phonic, 2906 N. State St., Suite 103, 601-981-3547, chane.com)

Local Drag Performer: Mia Chambers

COURTESY JOSH CONERLY

finalists Bridget Archer / Chokwe Antar Lumumba / Jeff Good / Mike Espy / Phil Bryant

COURTESY MARSHALL RAMSEY

January 23 - February 5,2019 • jfp.ms

Best Public Figure: Marshall Ramsey

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Best Nail Technician: Vivian Nguyen

(Tips N Toes Day Spa, 121 Highway 80 E., Clinton, 601-925-0772)

finalists Brooklyn Alexander / Ke’Charra Illuminati / London DuMore

This year’s winner for Best Public Figure, Marshall Ramsey, says the harder you work, the more likely you are going to have a job.

He works pretty hard, which is probably why he has so many jobs: political cartoonist, TV and radio show host, author, speaker and now editor-at-large for Mississippi Today, a Ridgeland-based news website. He began this chapter after 22 years at The Clarion-Ledger.

“When I started in Jackson, they told me I could make the job what I wanted, and I found out early on, if people knew who you were, they’d pay attention to (your work),” Ramsey says.

Cable networks paid attention when four of his cartoons went viral in 2018.

Even with all that, Marshall says, “getting out to meet people” face-to-face is his favorite part of the job.

—Dawn Dugle

finalists Ashton Marie Carter (Tailored Massage Therapy, 157 W. Government St., Brandon, 601-906-3883) / Christopher Jordan (iRevive Bodyworks Massage & Spa, 1900 Dunbarton Drive, Suite C, 601-259-8918) / Lacey Green Clark (The Wellness Spa, 5419 Highway 25, Suite R, Flowood, 601-479-5392, thewellnessspa.center) / Matthew Haynes (Blue Skyz Still Waters Massage Therapy, 601-383-4747) / Morgan Harris Hollis (Body Anew Medical Spa, 1040 Gluckstadt Road, Suite B, Madison, 601-605-0452, bodyanewmedicalspa.com)

Clinton resident and winner for Best Nail Technician Vivian Nguyen opened Tips n Toes Day Spa in 2006. Nguyen offers everything from microblading to eyebrow tattooing to pedicures to massages and facials, but she says her specialty is nail, eyebrow and eyelash care.

“I’m passionate about finding new trends when it comes to nail design and have so much fun with designs and embellishments,” Nguyen says. “When people come here, they can expect professional levels of anything they want done to their nails or brows.”

Nguyen became interested in eyebrow tattooing after her father, Du Nguyen, lost all his hair from chemotherapy in 2016. She began practicing the treatment as a way to give cancer patients a boost in confidence.

“When I saw how fast chemotherapy makes someone lose their hair, it touched my heart, and I knew I wanted to do something to help cancer patients,” Nguyen says.

—Dustin Cardon finalists Kendra Reid (Spoiled Rotten at Suite 16 Nail Spa & Wax Bar, 151 E. Metro Pkwy., Flowood, 601-750-3654) / Kim Secrist (The Parlor Salon, 1042 Gluckstadt Road, Suite A, Madison, 601-624-5386) / Victoria Walker (Cuticles Nail Studio, 2947 Old Canton Road, 601-366-6999) / Youlanda Watkins (Top Attractions Salon, 2619 Courthouse Circle, Flowood, 769-251-1667)

COURTESY VIVIAN NGUYEN

Mia Chambers, this year’s winner for Best Drag Performer, has been in the industry for 16 years, helping transform Jackson’s drag scene into something special. Mia’s looks usually lean towards old Hollywood, like the always-classic Monroe with touches of Vegas show girl mixed in. Josh Conerly, who performs as Mia, has tattoos that also add to her overall aesthetic and juxtaposes her vintage glam look.

When asked what gets Conerly pumped up and ready to perform as Mia, he says: “My go-to is Michael Jackson, although I never perform him, but anything ’80s dance puts me in a great mood.”

—Sarah Pollard

Jackson native and this year’s winner for Best Massage Therapist Tiffany Melton decided to go into the field after living with chronic back pain that massage ultimately helped relieve. At 15, she saw a massage therapist and says she felt a significant decrease right away, at which point she knew she had found her path.

She studied at Mississippi School of Therapeutic Massage and graduated in 2011.

That same year, she took her state exam and the national Massage and Bodywork Licensing examination. She opened her business, Massage by Tiffany, inside Warehouse Gym & Massage in 2016.

Melton offers custom treatments based on her clients’ needs, including therapeutic deep-tissue massage, relaxation massage, prenatal massage, energy work and reiki, a Japanese-based treatment based on balancing the body’s energy channels and chakras.

She offers treatments by appointment only Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday until noon.

“I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who supported me over the years,” she says. “With all their continued support, I’ve felt blessed to be able to keep doing what I love.”

—Dustin Cardon

IMANI KHAYYAM / FILE PHOTO

COURTESY MANNSDALE ANIMAL CLINIC

Mannsdale Animal Clinic originated from a goal Dr. Dale Wilson had after working in the veterinary field for 11 years at Oakdale Vet Clinic in Brandon: “redefining the veterinary experience.”

He started the clinic in May 2015.

Wilson wanted to not only include pet treatment, but treating pet owners well, too, so they would in turn treat their animals well.

“I realized early on that if I fix pets, I am really fixing their owners at the same time. I get this high almost from helping people,” he says. “We send pictures and videos, letting them know their pet is doing OK, easing any anxieties or frustrations they may feel.”

—Mike McDonald

(Massage by Tiffany, 4435 Mangum Drive, Suite B, Flowood, 601-317-1788)

Are you a finalist? Didn’t get your party invitation? Email party@jacksonfreepress.com or call 601-362-6121 x21

Best Professor: Robert Luckett

Best Real Estate Agent: Erica Johnson

Robert Luckett Jr. is a civil-rights historian and champion—both by training and upbringing—after watching his parents fight for civil rights. His mother, Jeanne Luckett, worked for health-care access for women and children, and his father, Robert Luckett Sr., was the first white principal at Jim Hill High School after desegregation.

Luckett Jr. left Mississippi to attend college, but a job at Jackson State University brought him back 10 years ago.

Today, he’s an associate professor who runs the Margaret Walker Center and the COFO Center on JSU’s campus. He was one of six members of the scholarly team that reviewed documents for the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum. And in November 2017, Mayor Lumumba appointed him to the Jackson Public Schools Board of Trustees.

“Equitable access to quality education is our number-one civil-rights issue (in Mississippi),” Luckett Jr. says. “I love teaching, and because of what I teach, I get to do more (for my community).”

—Dawn Dugle

Lifelong Byram native and this year’s Best Real Estate Agent Erica Johnson has been a Realtor with Three Rivers Real Estate in Flowood since early 2018 and has been part of the Jackson metro real estate community since 2013.

Johnson once worked as an office manager for Community First Real Estate. There, she says, she saw the excitement that Realtor Meshia Edwards brought to her buyers when getting ready to close on a sale and decided she wanted that experience for herself.

She is currently a member of the National Association of Realtors, the Mississippi Association of Realtors and Central Mississippi Realtors. CMS and Three Rivers recently named Johnson as a Million Dollar Producer, meaning she has sold more than $1 million worth of real estate.

—Dustin Cardon finalists Barbie Steverson (Crye-Leike Realtors, 601-825-1125, crye-leike.com) / Candy Whitehead (KeyTrust Properties, 601-259-0758, keytrustproperties.com) / Hayley Hayes (Overby Residential, 601-366-8511, overby.net) / Kimberlee Haralson (Crye-Leike Realtors, 601-825-1125, crye-leike.com) / Lynsey Henry (Hopper Properties, 769-220-2967, hopperms.com)

finalists Andrew Mark Sauerwein (Belhaven University, 1500 Peachtree St., belhaven.edu) / D’Andra Orey (Jackson State University, 1400 John R. Lynch St., jsums.edu) / Garrad Lee (Hinds Community College, 3925 Sunset Drive, hindscc.edu) / Paula Rodriguez (Hinds Community College, 608 Hinds Blvd., Raymond, hindscc.edu)

Best Server/Waitperson: Victoria Fortenberry

Best Photographer: Crystal Marie Thompson

(Fondren Public, 2765 Old Canton Road, 769-216-2589)

finalists Alexandra Jaco (Walker’s Drive In, 3016 N. State St., 601-982-2633, walkersdrivein. com) / Casey Hardigree (Walker’s Drive In, 3016 N. State St., 601-982-2633, walkersdrivein. com) / Janis Boersma (Local 463 Urban Kitchen, 1000 Highland Colony Pkwy., Suite 5002, 601-707-7684, local463.com) / Michelle Corban (Biaggi’s Ristorante Italiano, 970 Highland Colony Pkwy., Ridgeland, 601-354-6600, biaggis.com)

The 2019 Best of Jackson Party is Sunday 1/27/19 in downtown Jackson. Invitation only! If you are a finalist or winner and need to RSVP, please email party@jacksonfreepress.com by Friday at 3 p.m.! Visit bestofjackson.com to read about last year’s winners.

JB LAWRENCE

D’ARTAGNAN WINFORD

finalists Charlotte Stringer (601-209-7267, charlottestringerphotography.com) / Curt L. McAfee (242 Creative, 769-300-1582, 242creative.com) / Melody Thompson (Melody Ellis Photography, 769-257-9449) / Sharon Coker (601-906-6630, sharoncoker.com) / Tristan Duplichain (601-946-3708, tristanduplichain.com)

When Best Server/Waitperson Victoria Fortenberry began working at Fondren Public in 2018, she did not have to go very far. Before, she was a barista at Cups Espresso Café in Fondren. General Manager Brad Dreher would come in for coffee and talk to her about working at Fondren Public.

In 2018, she found herself in need of a change of scenery and went to work there. Fortenberry says it was an easy transition because she already knew many people who worked there, including her sister, Katie, who is a bartender.

One of her best tips for being successful as a server is to not take the job too seriously.

“I think I have more fun when I don’t take it too seriously,” she says.

—Amber Helsel

January 23 - February 5,2019 • jfp.ms

(Crystal Marie Photography, 601-691-0487)

For Crystal Marie Thompson, this year’s winner for Best Photographer, photography is an art that can give her clients memories that last for a lifetime. She established her photography business, Crystal Marie Photography, four years ago, and specializes in location shoots of families, newborns, weddings and senior portraits.

Thompson and her husband, Michael Thompson, have a blended family with eight children, which helps her in photographing other people’s kids.

“Children are some of my favorite subjects to photograph. I am very comfortable with them,” Thompson says.

On her business, she says: “For me, my connection to clients is personal. My business has grown more rapidly than I ever dreamed it could.”

—Jan M. Richardson

COURTESY ERICA JOHNSON

(Three Rivers Real Estate, 601-303-7653, threeriversms.com) COURTESY ROBERT LUCKETT

(Jackson State University, 1400 John R. Lynch St., 601-979-2121, jsums.edu)

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Best Urban Warrior: Jeff Good

Sexiest Bartender Kree’ Blackwell wasn’t always a bartender at WonderLust.

She started out working security to handle altercations between women in the club.

After the venue got its liquor license, owner Jesse Pandolfo asked Blackwell if she wanted to be a bartender.

“She said, ‘No offense to you. You do a great job working security for me ... but I just think you’re too pretty to work in security whenever I have a bartending position available,’” Blackwell says of Pandolfo.

Blackwell has been bartending for about two years and says a secret to it is practicing patience and respect, and having a good attitude.

“A lot of people, they can come to you with an attitude, anything like that—it’s a bar—and as long as you stay level eight times out of 10, they’re going to be level as well,” she says.

On winning Sexiest Bartender, Blackwell says: “I felt extremely flattered that people considered me that way, that considered me one of the sexiest bartenders, especially. ... I’ve only been working at (WonderLust) for two years or so,” she says.

—Amber Helsel

Jeff Good is no stranger to the Best Urban Warrior category, as he has for won several years running. He has always maintained that he is serious about Jackson as a city, and he applies his mantra, “There is no them; there’s only us. ...

Them is we,” not only to his quest to see change in the Jackson, but in one that he instills in his own children as well.

“I tell my children that if they want to see a change, it is up to them to make it happen, not to wait for others,” he says.

This advice has served him well, as he has helped launch some of Jackson’s most popular restaurants including Sal & Mookies New York Pizza & Ice Cream Joint, Broad Street Baking Company and BRAVO! Italian Restaurant & Bar. He also cofounded and is a managing partner of Soul City Hospitality, a social business enterprise focused on developing Mississippi’s local food economy with projects like the Up in Farms Food Hub. Good believes that “Jackson is small enough to work together for change and progress but large enough to make an impact,” he says.

—Shameka Hamilton-Knight

COURTESY KREE’ BLACKWELL

finalists Courtney Boykin (Ole Tavern on George Street, 416 George St., 601-9602700, oletavern.com) / Jamie Moss (Fenian’s Pub, 901 E. Fortification St., 601-9480055, fenianspub.com) / Jeremy Loving (Lou’s Full-Serv, 904 E. Fortification St., Suite B, 601-487-6359) / Kevin Tiner (Fondren Public, 2765 Old Canton Road, 769-2162589) / Michelle Corban (Biaggi’s Ristorante Italiano, 970 Highland Colony Pkwy., Ridgeland, 601-354-6600, biaggis.com)

finalists Bridget Archer / David Lewis / Phillip Rollins / Ron Chane / Tonja Murphy

Best Visual Artist: Wyatt Waters (wyattwaters.com)

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finalists Amber Noel Skipper (Flowood Elementary School, rcsd.ms) / Bethany Frazier (Dana Road Elementary School, vwsd.org) / Derrick Chapman (Murrah High School, jackson.k12.ms.us) / Harriett Eppes (Jackson Academy, jacksonacademy.org) / Jessica Pace Trawick (Florence Middle School, rcsd.ms) / Laura Clark (Bailey APAC Middle School, jackson.k12.ms.us)

COURTESY ALLISON DUNAWAY

January 23 - February 5,2019 • jfp.ms

(Richland Elementary School, rcsd.ms)

Even if you’re not that plugged into the Jackson metro area’s art scene, you’ve probably heard of Wyatt Waters or seen some of his watercolor paintings.

When Waters began taking art lessons early on in life, he was taught to create from life, and compares the practice to journalism.

“Working from life is a lot like getting as close to the source as possible,” he says.

While studying art at Mississippi College, he began experimenting with mediums such as charcoal and pastel. Eventually, he started using watercolors and fell in love with the practice.

Waters has created work in Jackson and Mississippi, and has also worked in places such a Italy and France. He has collaborated on Mississippi-based chef Robert St. John on books such as “A Southern Palate,” “Southern Seasons” and “An Italian Palate. For each of those books, St. John would create the recipes, and Waters would paint the scenery.

For more information, visit wyattwaters.com.

—Amber Helsel finalists Eli Childers (eli-childers.format.com) / Justin Ransburg (jransburg. carbonmade.com) / Michele Campbell / Scott Allen / William Goodman (william goodmanart.com) The 2019 Best of Jackson Party is Sunday 1/27/19 in downtown Jackson. Invitation only! If you are a finalist or winner and need to RSVP, email party@jacksonfreepress.com by Friday at 3 p.m.!

Visit bestofjackson.com to read about last year’s winners.

IMANI KHAYYAM / FILE PHOTO

Best Teacher: Allison Dunaway We can all agree that teachers shape the world, and this year’s winner for Best Teacher, Allison Dunaway, is no exception. She is in her second year at Richland Elementary School, where she teaches kindergarten, and in her 14th year in the field.

Dunaway grew up in a family of teachers and has always wanted a part in education. She received a bachelor’s degree in education from The University of Southern Mississippi and a master’s in the same subject from Alcorn State University.

She credits her many mentors who have helped mold her into the passionate teacher that she is today. Dunaway believes that students need a teacher who is in their corner.

“To watch a child truly grasp the concept of a lesson that I’ve taught and how excited they become in that moment of growth is contagious, and it makes whatever subject that I’m teaching joyful,” she says.

—Shameka Hamilton-Knight

STEPHEN WILSON

Sexiest Bartender: Kree’ Blackwell

(WonderLust, 3911 Northview Drive, 337-378-9003, wonderlustjackson.com)

Are you a finalist? Didn’t get your party invitation? Email party@jacksonfreepress.com or call 601-362-6121 x21.

Best Dance Group; Best Dance Studio: Ballet Magnificat!

Best Radio Personality or Team; Best Radio Station: Nate & Bender, Y101

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

(222 North St., Suite 2205, 601-5766800, mscivilrightsmuseum.com)

The Mississippi Civil Rights Museum is not for the faint of heart or the weak of feet. Since opening in December 2017, the museum has received worldwide praise and visitors. There are eight exhibit areas of the museum, most stuffed with historical items that chronicle the struggle of African Americans in Mississippi.

Throughout, multimedia, interactive displays teach visitors about both brutal and uplifting stories you thought you knew, and those that have been forgotten.

Some of the galleries are intimate and contain graphic images, like the photo of Emmett Till’s badly beaten body when he was pulled out of the Tallahatchie River. No story is left out, and the last gallery asks the museum visitor to decide “Where We Go from Here?”

The museum is not a quick stop. Plan to spend several hours there and wear comfortable shoes, as you will walk a lot throughout the galleries.

Admission to the museum is $10 for adults and every third Saturday—it’s free.

—Dawn Dugle

Best Dance Studio finalists Dance Works Studio (1104 E. Northside Drive, Clinton, 601-720-1885, dwsms.com) / Salsa Mississippi Club & Studio (605 Duling Ave., 601-213-6355, salsamississippi.com) / Studio K (801 S. Wheatley St., Suite A, Ridgeland, 769-251-1506, dancewithstudiok.com) / Studio Sole Dance (2999 Highway 49 S., Florence, 601-845-3326, studiosoledance.com) / Taboo Dance & Aerial Fitness (856 S. State St., 601-502-4000, mytaboofitness.com)

Courteys MDAH

Best New Addition to Jackson; Best Tourist Attraction: Mississippi Civil Rights Museum

courtesy Ballet Magnificat

Best Radio Station finalists WJMI (99 Jams, 99.7, wjmi.com) / WMPN (MPB 91.3, mpbonline.org) / WMSI (Miss 103, 102.9, miss103.com) / WRBJ (97.7 The Beat of the Capital, thebeatof thecapital.com) / WUSJ (US 96.3, yourcountryus96.com)

courtesy Nate & Bender

Best Radio Personality or Team finalists Bo Bounds (ESPN The Zone 105.9, thezone1059.com) / Cami Marlowe (Y101, 101.7, y101.com) / Dirty D (Darrell Arnold, WPBP 104.5) / Scott Steele (US 96.3, yourcountryus96.com) / Traci & Hef (US 96.3, yourcountryus96.com)

Best Dance Group finalists Dancing Dolls (The Dollhouse Dance Factory, 1410 Ellis Ave., 601-969-4000, dollhousedancefactory.com) / Kinetic Etchings (1347 Fontaine Drive, 601-946-6506) / Mississippi Metropolitan Ballet (110 Homestead Drive, Madison, 601-853-4508, msmetroballet.com) / Montage Theatre of Dance (Hinds Community College, hindscc.edu) / Studio Sole Dance (2999 Highway 49 S., Florence, 601-845-3326, studiosoledance.com)

Best New Addition to Jackson finalists 4th Avenue Lounge (200 S. Lamar St., 769-572-4669, 4thavenuejxn.com) / Aplós (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 174, 601-714-8989, eataplos.com) / The District at Eastover (1250 Eastover Drive, 601914-0800, thedistrictateastover.com) / Fine & Dandy (100 District Blvd. E., 601-202-5050, eatdandy.com) Best Tourist Attraction finalists The District at Eastover (1250 Eastover Drive, 601914-0800, thedistrictateastover.com) / Fondren / Mississippi Children’s Museum (2145 Museum Blvd., 601-981-5469, mschildrensmuseum.org) / Natchez Trace Parkway (natcheztracetravel.com) / Old Capitol Museum (100 S. State St., 601-576-6920, oldcapitolmuseum.com)

Best Category We Left Off: Outdoor Activity

Mississippi gets a lot flack for different things (some deserved), but there is something we do have that a lot of other places don’t: green space. The state is predominantly agricultural and fairly rural, so of course, there are lots of outdoor activities. In Jackson alone, you can find something to do outside. Maybe hike through LeFleur’s Bluff State Park or walk the trails behind the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science. If you find yourself downtown and in need of a place to just sit, you could always go to the Art Garden at the Mississippi Museum of Art.

Not to mention, no matter the season, there are always festivals happening, whether it’s Fondren After 5 or something annual like Bright Lights Belhaven Nights. There are no shortage of outdoor activities around here, so it’s no wonder that Jackson voted this the Best Category We Left Off.

—Amber Helsel finalists Best Children’s Entertainer / Best Construction Company / Best Manager / Best Youth Sports Organization

January 23 - February 5,2019 • jfp.ms

(101.7, y101.com)

Roads in life are not typically straight. They wind and curve and can even loop around. Such is the case with Nate West, 40, and Chris Bender, 42, who have found themselves working alongside one another once again.

Their mutual partnership began in 2004 when Bender came to Y101 in Jackson after stints in Abilene and Lubbock, Texas, as a station host. West had begun his tenure with the Y101 station nine years prior, working as a part-time host. In 2009, Bender decided to explore other opportunities, left the station and headed west, working in Reno, Nev., and later Austin, Texas.

“In radio, you’re always looking for bigger markets. It’s that next step you take,” West says.

By 2015, Bender was back in Jackson.

“This is home to me,” he says. “What do they say? The grass isn’t always greener on the other side. I like this station better than the corporate ones.”

West and Bender do top-40 radio station Y101’s “Morning Showgram” Monday through Saturday from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m.

—Mike McDonald

Ballet Magnificat! is one of Jackson’s best-known dance companies. Keith Thibodeaux (who played Little Ricky on “I Love Lucy” as a child) and Kathy Thibodeaux (a USA International Ballet Competition silver medalist) founded the company in 1986, with the goal of creating a touring Christian ballet troupe. Today, Ballet Mag has two touring troupes: the Alpha and Omega companies. The groups, which have included dancers from companies such as the Spokane Ballet, Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre, the State Theatre of the Czech Republic and more, have performed at places such as the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., and at the Christian Music Artists’ Seminar in Estes Park, Colo.

In 1989, the Thibodeauxs founded Ballet Mag’s School of the Arts. The school currently has locations in Madison and Jackson. It has classes for all age ranges, from the “Tiny Tots” class for 3-year-olds to Ballet I, II and III in the upper school, and also beginner’s, teen and adult ballet classes.

For more information, visit balletmagnificat.com.

—Amber Helsel

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Best Local Live Theatre Group; Best Stage Play: New Stage Theatre, “Sister Act”

Best Arts Organization: Mississippi Museum of Art (380 S. Lamar St., 601-960-1515, msmuseumart.org)

(1100 Carlisle St., 601-948-3533, newstagetheatre.com) JAMES PATTERSON

finalists Craftmen’s Guild of Mississippi (950 Rice Road, Ridgeland, 601-856-7546, craftsmensguildofms.org) / Greater Jackson Arts Council (201 E. Pascagoula St., 601-9601557, greaterjacksonartscouncil.com) / Mississippi Arts Commission (501 N. West St., Suite 1101A, 601-359-6030, arts.ms.gov) / New Stage Theatre (1100 Carlisle St., 601-948-3533, newstagetheatre.com)

Best Art Gallery: Fondren Art Gallery

(3242 N. State St., 601-981-9222, fondrenartgallery.com)

Art lovers have voted Fondren Art Gallery as Best Art Gallery in Best of Jackson every year since 2015, and it’s not hard to understand why. The gallery is filled with works from more than two dozen artists, including local up-and-comers and international creatives, representing everything from paintings to drawings to ceramics.

Fondren Art Gallery also offers framing services for paintings, photographs and objects, as well as art restoration and cleaning. Gallery owner Richard McKey teaches private art lessons for individuals of all ages as well as groups.

He also offers private guitar lessons by the hour in the gallery’s music studio. Art lessons are $60 per hour if participants bring their own canvas and paint, or $80 if they need materials provided. For more information, call 601-981-9222 or email fondrenartgallery@gmail.com.

—Dustin Cardon

Best Local Live Theater Group finalists Black Rose Theatre Company (103 Black St., Brandon, 601-825-1293, blackrosetheatre.wordpress.com) / Fondren Theatre Workshop (fondrentheatreworkshop.com) / Hearth & Mantel Theatre Company (769-218-9496, hearthandmanteltheatre.com) / MADDRAMA (Jackson State University, 1400 John R. Lynch St., jsums.edu) Best Stage Play finalists “After We Become Rain”—Hearth & Mantel Theatre Company (769-2189496, hearthandmanteltheatre.com) / “The Diary of Anne Frank”—New Stage Theatre(1100CarlisleSt.,601-948-3533,newstagetheatre.com)/“HairGrease”—Montage Theatre of Dance (Hinds Community College, hindscc.edu) / “Morningside”— New Stage Theatre (1100 Carlisle St., 601-948-3533, newstagetheatre.com)

Best Kids’ Event: Boo at the Zoo

18

Halloween is full of scary events that may not necessarily be for kids. However, the Jackson Zoo understands the importance of having an event for them that is “merry not scary,” Director of Marketing E.J. Rivers says. Jacksonians understand, too, because they made it this year’s Best Kids’ Event in the Best of Jackson contest.

During the 2018 event, participants got to see Inky the Clown and Dorian the Magician. The event also had food trucks, edible and non-edible treats, animal encounters, haunted hayrides, bounce houses and more.

For more information, visit jacksonzoo.org.

—Brinda Fuller Willis finalists Dr. Seuss’ Silly Birthday Celebration (February, mschildrensmuseum.org) / KidsFest Ridgeland (April, kidfestridgeland.com) / Touch A Truck Jackson (April, touchatruckjackson.com) / WellsFest (September; wellschurch.org/wellsfest)

COURTESY BOO AT THE ZOO

January 23 - February 5,2019 • jfp.ms

(October, jacksonzoo.org)

finalists AND Gallery (133 Millsaps Ave., andgallery.org) / Brown’s Fine Art & Framing (630 Fondren Place, 601-982-4844, brownsfineart.com) / Fischer Galleries (736 S. President St., 601291-9115, fischergalleries.com) / Offbeat (151 Wesley Ave., 601-376-9404, offbeatjxn.com) / View Gallery (1491 Canton Mart Road, Suite 7, 601-487-6477, viewgalleryart.com)

Best Reason to Live in Jackson: Food and Restaurants One thing you can guess about almost every human being is that they love food.

Luckily, Jackson has options in the local restaurant scene. For those Italian lovers, there’s restaurants like Amerigo, this year’s winner for Best Italian, and longtime favorite BRAVO! Italian Restaurant & Bar. Another local favorite, Keifer’s, is this year’s winner for Best Local Fries, Best Hangover Food and Best Mediterranean. There, you can munch on foods like the pita mozz and cottage fries. Jackson has some of the best bakeries you can find in Mississippi, including Primos Cafe and Campbell’s Bakery.

Vegetarian and healthy-eating fanatics can always visit places like Aladdin Mediterranean Grill or Babalu Tapas & Tacos. Jackson also recently got a new addition for its food scene: Cultivation Food Hall, where you can find everything from African-inspired dishes, to sushi in a bowl, to New York deli staples.

—Armani T. Fryer finalists Community / Cost of Living / Culture / Fondren / People

RICHARD MCKEY

If you want to attend the theater in Jackson, New Stage Theatre is one of the best places to go.

Jane Reid Petty founded the nonprofit in 1965, and the organization premiered its inaugural season the following year in its first location, a church at the corner of Gallatin and Hooker streets. New Stage produced 13 seasons there before moving to its current space in Belhaven in 1978.

Over the years, it has produced plays from many genres and settings, from the biannual “A Christmas Carol” to this year’s winner for Best Stage Play, “Sister Act,” in the 2017-2018 season. The play tells the story of Deloris Van Cartier, a woman who witnesses a crime and then has to hide in a convent. The production was originally supposed to run May 29 until June 10, 2018, but after success in the original production, New Stage held it over until June 17.

This season, New Stage has done plays such as “The Diary of Anne Frank” in fall 2018, and will perform “Hell in High Water,” which recounts the Great Flood of 1927, from Jan. 29-Feb. 10, and “Sweet Potato Queens” March 13-24. The nonprofit also does the “Unframed at New Stage Theatre” series, which produces plays that are not typically on a main stage, classes, summer camps and more.

For more information, visit newstagetheatre.com.

—Amber Helsel

This year’s winner for Best Arts Organization, the Mississippi Museum of Art, has grown from its humble beginnings as the Mississippi Art Association into a full-blown entity complete with more than 1,400 square feet of exhibition space and a 1.2-acre park known as the Art Garden.

Over the last year, museum-goers have been able to enjoy exhibits such as “Jeffrey Gibson: Like a Hammer,” which displays 65 of his pieces that combine his native American heritage and contemporary artistic practices; and “Central to Their Lives: Southern Women Artists in the Johnson Collection,” which features southern women artists’ work from the late 1890s to the early 1960s.

As of last year, the MMA’s café is now a branch of the Fondren business La Brioche Patisserie. For those who like gifts, the museum’s gift store has items for everyone, from Mississippi-based business’ products to socks that feature famous paintings.

Admission is free, and the museum is open Tuesday thru Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and noon to 5 p.m. on Sunday. For more information, visit msmuseumart.org.

—Brinda Fuller Willis

730 Lakeland Dr. Jackson, MS | Èä£ ÎÈÈ ÈäÎÎÊUÊSun-Thurs: 11am - 10pm, Fri-Sat: 11am - 11pmÊUÊWE DELIVER FOR CATERING ORDERS: Fondren / Belhaven / UMC area

MEDITERRANEAN GRILL

Best Meal Under $10 Best Ethnic Grocery Best Place for Healthy Food Best Place for Hummus Best Vegetarian Options Best Ethnic Market

Register now for JFP Editor Donna Ladd’s popular creativity, writing and storytelling workshop.

Saturday, Feb. 23, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Designed for anyone who wants to be more creative, on or off the job. Enjoy fun exercises and develop a creativity action plan for yourself. Limited seats.

Includes breakfast, lunch, snacks, binder of worksheets and readings, weekly newsletter/writing prompts leading up to workshop.

$250 Fee — Mention ad for Workshop meets in the big JFP creative space in Capital Towers, 30% off until Jan 30 (Total $175) Accept checks, credit/debit cards. Non-refundable 125 S. Congress St., #1324

Must register: Call 601-966-0834 or email class@writingtochange.com

Please join us on Saturday, January 26 as we honor the life or our beloved customers Ann Herlihy.

Order one of Ann’s favorite dishes and we’ll donate 15% of the proceeds to ARF (Animal Rescue Fund)

Are you a Best of Jackson Finalist?

Then You’re Invited To the Best of Jackson Party!

For tickets and information, contact

party@jacksonfreepress.com 601.362.6121 ext.21

January 23 - February 5, 2019 • jfp.ms

Thank you for nominating us!

Best of Jackson 2019

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Best Festival: Bright Lights Belhaven Nights

Best Local Podcast: Let’s Talk Jackson

Casey Creasey, executive director of the Greater Belhaven Neighborhood Foundation, believes that Bright Lights Belhaven Nights is one of the cooler neighborhood festivals in Jackson, and Best of Jackson voters seem to agree. The event, which is now in its 15th year, draws people from all over Jackson for live music, vendors, food and more.

Creasey says the festival has grown over the years, and about 3,500 attendees came out last year to enjoy food, art vendors and musical guests. Attendees include all ages with a large children’s area, young families, college students and more. This year’s festival is set for Aug. 10, 2019, and will cover Poplar, Kenwood and Carlisle streets in the historic Belhaven neighborhood.

For more information, visit greaterbelhaven.com.

—Brinda Fuller Willis

“Let’s Talk Jackson,” a podcast from Podastery Studios, highlights one of Mississippi’s many artists, activists, entrepreneurs, musicians and more.

Beau York The show currently runs with about 10 episodes per season. Intern Kourtney Moncure, along with Executive Producer and Podastery cofounder Beau York, co-hosted and produced season six, with interviewees such as r&b singer Vitamin Cea, hip-hop artist Yung Jewelz and Ardenland founder Arden Barnett.

Moncure says she is an avid music lover and enjoys working on projects that involve the arts. She wants to focus on nonprofit organizations in the Jackson area in the future.

“I want to show different aspects … that Jackson is more than just local restaurants. Sometimes you can make whatever it is you want to happen here in Jackson without moving away,” she says.

—Shameka Hamilton-Knight

(August, greaterbelhaven.com)

(letstalkjackson.com)

finalists The Art Garden at the Mississippi Museum of Art (380 S. Lamar St., 601-960-1515, msmuseumart.org) / Clinton Community Nature Center (617 Dunton Road, Clinton, 601-926-1104, clintonnaturecenter.org) / Flowood Nature Park (4077 Flowood Drive, Flowood, 601-992-4440) / LeFleur’s Bluff State Park (3315 Lakeland Terrace, 601-987-3923, mdwfp.state.ms.us) / Mynelle Gardens (4736 Clinton Blvd., 601-960-1894)

(millsaps.edu)

Millsaps Arts and Lecture Series, a multi-year winner for Best Public Forum or Speaker Series, is now in its 51st season. A group of Millsaps alumni who wanted to give back to the community through cultural opportunities founded the event. Each year, it offers programs on music, literature, current events and history at the Gertrude Ford Academic Complex Recital Hall.

This year, there will be a conversation about filmmaking in Mississippi, the music of Muscle Shoals, two observatories in Mississippi and Robert Kennedy’s visit to our state in 1967. Partial funding for the series comes from the Mississippi Arts Commission and the National Endowment for the Arts. For more information, visit millsaps.edu.

—Dawn Dugle finalists Friday Forum (Refill Cafe, 136 S. Adams St.) / History Is Lunch (Mississippi Department of Archives & History, mdah.state. ms.us) / Ideas on Tap (Mississippi Humanities Council, mshumanities.org) / TeamJXN Luncheon Series (teamjxn.com) The 2019 Best of Jackson Party is Sunday 1/27/19 in downtown Jackson. Invitation only!

If you are a finalist or winner and need to RSVP, please email party@jacksonfreepress.com by Friday at 3 p.m.! Visit bestofjackson.com to read about last year’s winners.

Best Locally Owned Business: Deep South Pops

(1800 N. State St., 601-398-2174; 4500 Interstate 55 N. Frontage Road, 601398-0623, deepsouthpops.com)

While Deep South is pretty famous locally for its popsicles, with ones for dairy lovers and those who can’t have dairy alike, the business is more than just that. It’s a coffee shop that features items such as nitrogen coffee from Cascade Brewing Company, gelato from Sweet Magnolia Gelato Co., baked goods and more.

Deep South also serves as a great meeting place, whether you’re with a large group or just want to study with a friend. The business also has an art gallery at the Belhaven location. Recently, it featured art from Holmes Community College professor Kris Wilson and artist Anna Claire Lilly Ziegler.

If those things aren’t enough for you, Deep South now has two locations: one in Belhaven and one in Highland Village. For more information, find the business on Facebook.

—Amber Helsel finalists Capital City Kayaks (601-953-7615, capitalcitykayaks.com) / Offbeat (151 Wesley Ave., 601-376-9404, offbeatjxn.com) / The Prickly Hippie (500 Highway 51, Suite F, Ridgeland, 601-910-6730, pricklyhippie.com) / Sneaky Beans (2914 N. State St., 601-487-6349) / Spray Tans by Kayla (504 N. Bierdeman Road, Pearl, 769-972-1138)

AMBER HELEL

January 23 - February 5,2019 • jfp.ms

IMANI KHAYYAM

20

Just a stone’s throw from Interstate 55 sits the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science in LeFleur’s Bluff State Park. Inside the museum, you’ll find more than 200 living species in a network of aquariums. You can even watch divers hand-feed the fish in an aquarium not too far from a two-headed snake (who also has to be hand fed so that he doesn’t choke). The permanent exhibits showcase Mississippi species, including many that are endangered. The museum also has 2,500 feet of space for special exhibits. The next one is “Ocean Bound,” which shows how people’s actions on land affect oceans.

Outside, MMNS has two-and-a-half miles of nature trails that highlight the trees and plants native to Mississippi—including poison ivy, so watch where you step.

Admission to the museum is $6 for adults, $4 for kids ages 4 to 18, $5 for adults $60 and over, and free for children ages 3 and under. The museum offers special pricing for birthday parties.

—Dawn Dugle

finalists Made in Mississippi (blueskycasting.com) / Reality Breached (realitybreached.com) / Red Flag Podcast (podastery.com) / The Roguish Gent (soundcloud.com/242creative) / Token Talk (soundcloud.com/tokentalk)

Best Public Forum or Speaker Series: Millsaps College Arts & Lecture Series

(2148 Riverside Drive, 601-576-6000, museum.mdwfp.com)

IMANI KHAYYAM/ FILE PHOTO

Best Community Garden/Nature Attraction: Mississippi Museum of Natural Science

JULIE SKIPPER

finalists Cathead Jam (June, catheadjam.com) / CelticFest (March, celticfestms.org) / Farish Street Heritage Festival (September, facebook.com/farishstreetfestival) / Mississippi Science Fest (September, mssciencefest.org) / WellsFest (September, wellschurch.org/wellsfest)

Are you a finalist? Didn’t get your party invitation? Email party@jacksonfreepress.com or call 601-362-6121 x21.

Best Museum: Mississippi Children’s Museum

Best Annual Event: Hal’s St. Paddys Parade & Festival

The Mississippi Children’s Museum features numerous ways to make learning fun for kids, with installations such as the Gertrude C. Ford Literacy Garden that opened in 2017, which features literary-inspired sculptures, native plants and an edible garden where children can also listen to stories.

MCM also regularly hosts traveling attractions, including the “Very Eric Carle” exhibit that ended in January. The next visiting attraction is “Daniel Tigers Neighborhood, a Grrific Exhibit.” The exhibit begins in May and is based around a PBS program starring Daniel Tiger, son of the Daniel Striped Tiger character from “Mister Rogers Neighbourhood.”

On Feb. 9, MCM will host its “Ignite the Night” fundraiser, where adults get to enjoy a night of music, dancing and drinks at the museum. This year’s theme is “Hampton’s Holiday,” where guests can dress in “preppy summer chic” and eat Long Island-style food, play lawn games and bid in a silent auction.

—Dustin Cardon

For the past 35 years, thousands of local Jacksonians and visitors from around the country have flocked to downtown every March for the delightful craziness of Hal’s St. Paddy’s Parade & Festival, which has been voters’ choice for Best Annual Event since the Jackson Free Press first added the category in 2010.

Over the years, the New Orleans-inspired St. Patrick’s Day parade has evolved into a wide-ranging, uniquely Jackson event, complete with a 5K run, a pet parade, a children’s festival, a second-line march, and of course, a top-notch music festival that has featured artists such as Robert Randolph, Freedom, The Molly Ringwalds and Sweet Crude.

While details on the next installment are still forthcoming, longtime festivalgoers are no doubt already looking at the theme for 2019, “A Magical Mystery Tour,” for creative costume and float ideas.

—Micah Smith

A group of parents of adults with developmental disabilities founded Christian nonprofit The Mustard Seed in 1981. The organization’s name comes from Matthew 17:20: “Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move.”

The organization leads its “Seedsters” in activities such as a Christmas hand bell choir and art activities that also help maintain The Mustard Seed’s gift shop, which sells mugs, Christmas tree ornaments, ceramics and pottery that the organization’s clients make. Proceeds account for 20 percent of The Mustard Seed’s annual income.

Each April, The Mustard Seed also hosts “Racin’ for the Seed,” a duathlon with a 5K run and walk, 14.6 mile bike ride and 1 mile run and walk. This year’s event is at Lakeshore Park on April 13.

For more information, visit mustardseedinc.org.

—Dustin Cardon

finalists Jackson Music Awards (July, jmaainc.com) / Mississippi Science Fest (September, mssciencefest. org) / Mistletoe Marketplace (November, mistletoe marketplace.com) / WellsFest (September, wellschurch. org/wellsfest) / Zoo Brew (May, jacksonzoo.org)

finalists Animal Rescue Fund of Mississippi (395 W. Mayes St., 769-216-3414, arfms.org) / Cheshire Abbey (cheshire abbey.com) / Community Animal Rescue & Adoption (960 N. Flag Chapel Road, 601-922-7575, carams.org) / Mississippi Kidney Foundation (3000 Old Canton Road, Suite 110, 601-981-3611, kidneyms.org)

(2145 Museum Blvd., 601-981-5469, mschildrensmuseum.org)

Nonprofit Organization: The Mustard Seed, Inc.

(March, halsstpaddysparade.com)

finalists Mississippi Agricultural and Forestry Museum (1150 Lakeland Drive, 601-432, 4500, msagmuseum.org) / Mississippi Civil Rights Museum (222 North St., Suite 2205, 601-576-6800, mscivilrightsmuseum.com) / Mississippi Museum of Art (380 S. Lamar St.; 601-960-1515; msmuseumart.org) / Mississippi Museum of Natural Science (2148 Riverside Drive, 601-576-6000, museum.mdwfp.com)

Thanks for the Best of Jackson votes!

(1085 Luckney Road, Brandon, 601992-3556, mustardseedinc.com)

Jackson’s oldest bakery.

Madison’s newest bakery.

Mississippi’s best bakery.

THANK YOU FOR

It is an honor to serve you.

VOTING US

Jackson’s Oldest Bakery Three Years in a Row! Madison’s Newest Bakery Mississippi’s Best Bakery

Finalist Best Fitness Center/Gym

best of 2012

Fo n d re n | 6 01 .36 2 .4 6 28

2013

Baptist Healthplex – Jackson

2017

Madison | 769.300.2790

w w w. c a m p b e l l s b a k e r y. m s

Get Better.

January 23 - February 5,2019 • jfp.ms

ONE OF THE BEST

21

Best Musician; Best Rock Artist/Band; Best Singer: Jason Turner (jasonturnerband.com)

Best Musician finalists Brian Jones (Lillian Axe, lillianaxe.com) / Chad Wesley (chadwesleyband.com) / Ron Etheridge (facebook.com/ronetheridgemasterpiece) / Topher Brown / Zach Bridges (facebook.com/zachbridgesmusic) Best Rock Artist/Band finalists Empty Atlas (emptyatlas.com) / Framing the Red (framingthered.com) / Pop Fiction (facebook.com/popfictionms) / Proximity / Young Valley (youngvalleymusic.com) Best Singer finalists Chris Link (facebook.com/chrislink0202) / Krystal Gem / Lari Johns’n (facebook. com/4larij) / Pam Confer / Ron Etheridge (facebook.com/ronetheridgemasterpiece)

(116 Conestoga Road, Ridgeland; 601-853-0105; shuckersontherez.com)

To have a good time at a bar, you don’t have to go broke. Shucker’s Oyster Bar, this year’s winner for Best Bar, Best Place to Dance and Best Place to Drink Cheap, understands the importance of that. The business has specials throughout the week, such as Ladies Night on Tuesdays from 7:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. with $2 drinks and $4 Crown Royal shots on Mondays. For those who want to partake in the second part of Shucker’s name, the business also has oyster specials, such as a dozen for $8 and six for $6. Happy Hour is Monday through Thursday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. The specials include $1 off drinks, with the exception of nightly drink specials from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.

For those looking for a good place to dance, Shucker’s also takes pride in its lineup of live music, including bands such as Proximity and Acoustic Crossroads, Tuesday through Saturday.

For more information, find the business on Facebook.

— Armani T. Fryer Best Bar finalists The Apothecary at Brent’s Drugs (655 Duling Ave., apothecaryjackson. com) / Fenian’s Pub (901 E. Fortification St., 601-948-0055, fenianspub.com) / Fondren Public (2765 Old Canton Road, 769-216-2589) / Martin’s Downtown (214 S. State St., 601-354-9712, martinsdowntownjxn.com) / WonderLust (3911 Northview Drive, 337-378-9003, wonderlustjackson.com) Best Place to Dance finalists Bee Hall (Hinds Community College, 608 Hinds Blvd., Raymond, 601-857-5261, hindscc.edu) / Ole Tavern on George Street (416 George St., 601-960-2700, oletavern.com) / WonderLust (3911 Northview Drive, 337-378-9003, wonderlustjackson.com) / Pop’s Saloon (2636 S. Gallatin St., 601-961-4747) Best Place to Drink Cheap finalists Fenian’s Pub (901 E. Fortification St., 601-948-0055, fenianspub.com) / Martin’s Downtown (214 S. State St., 601-354-9712, martinsdowntownjxn.com) / Sam’s Lounge (5035 Interstate 55 N., 601-983-2526) / Pop’s Saloon (2636 S. Gallatin St., 601-961-4747)

COURTESY THE BULLDOG

Beer Selection at a Restaurant; Place to Watch the Game: The Bulldog

January 23 - February 5,2019 • jfp.ms

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

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Drinking beer and watching a game go hand-inhand for many people. For those looking for a game spot outside the home, Jackson has many options, including this year’s winner for Best Beer Selection at a Restaurant and Best Place to Watch the Game, The Bulldog. Company owners Alec Wilder, and Eddie and Herbie Dyer, opened the true beer tavern in Jackson in 2007.

The bar sports 62 beer taps, 30 of which change out seasonally. As of Jan. 10, they included Lucky Town Brewing Company Hop Fiasco IPA, Natchez Brewing Company Kettle Sour Series-POG and more.

The business also has more than 75 beers in bottles.

The Bulldog has beer flights and Pint Night on Wednesday nights. For those looking to watch a game, The Bulldog has 12 TVs and two projector screens, so no matter

where you are in the restaurant, you can probably watching something ... and drink beer.

For more information, visit bulldog-jackson. draftfreak.com.

—Amber Helsel

Best Beer Selection at a Restaurant finalists Barrelhouse (3009 N. State St., 769-216-3167, barrelhousems.com) / Fondren Public (2765 Old Canton Road, 769-216-2589) / The Manship Wood Fired Kitchen (1200 N. State St., Suite 100, 601-398-4562, themanshipjackson.com) / The Pig & Pint (3139 N. State St., 601-326-6070, pigandpint. com) / Saltine Restaurant (622 Duling Ave., Suite 201, 601982-2899, saltinerestaurant.com) Best Place to Watch the Game finalists 4th & Goal Sports Café (5100 Interstate 55 N., 769208-8283, 4thgoal.com) / Bonny Blair’s Sports Cafe (1149 Old Fannin Road, Suite 16, Brandon, 769-447-5788) / Capitol Grill (5050 Interstate 55 N., Suite F, 601-899-8845, capitolgrillofjackson.com) / Fondren Public (2765 Old Canton Road, 769-216-2589) / Last Call Sports Grill (1428 Old Square Road, 601-713-2700)

COURTESY SHUCKER’S OYSTER BAR

COURTESY JASON TURNER

Seeing Jason Turner take three titles in this year’s Best of Jackson won’t be too surprising for frequent voters—after all, he has won Best Musician, Best Rock Artist/Band and Best Singer on many occasions. However, one person who may be surprised is Turner himself.

“I don’t think I’m the best at anything,” he says of his nominations. “So maybe it’s seeing the name a lot like, ‘I know Jason’s out there doing a lot of playing.’ Or maybe they like it. I don’t know.”

In September 2018, he released a new EP, “In Honor of Number 8,” a tribute to his late father. Turner says the passing of his father was the hardest thing he ever dealt with, and making the EP helped him cope with that loss.

“I kind of always try to write from a standpoint of, ‘This is what I went through, and how can this help others?’” he says. “… I hope, in some capacity, it maybe helps them go through something they’re going through.”

Turner already has two albums worth of new music written, but before tackling that, he plans on making a live solo record. Although he says he’s proud of his albums, he sees himself as a live act, as he plays more than 200 shows a year.

“That’s what I’ve always done. Since I was in high school, I’ve played live. That’s something I want to do, just to capture it because I’m sure one day I’ll get old and won’t be able to do it,” he says with a laugh.

—Micah Smith

Best Bar; Place to Dance; Place to Drink Cheap: Shucker’s Oyster Bar

Are you a finalist? Didn’t get your party invitation? Email party@jacksonfreepress.com or call 601-362-6121 x21

Best Club DJ: DJ Young Venom

Best Cover Band; R&B Artist/Band: 601 LIVE

(djyoungvenom.com)

Best Cover Band finalists Acoustic Crossroads (facebook.com/acousticxroads) / Keys vs. Strings (facebook.com/band.colonels) / Mustache the Band (mustachetheband.com) / Pop Fiction (facebook.com/popfictionms) Best R&B Artist/Band f finalists Kerry Thomas (artistecard.com/kerrythomasmusic) / Krystal Gem / Lari Johns’n (facebook.com/4larij) / Stephanie Luckett (facebook.com/stephanieluckett)

Best Blues Artist/Band: Bobby Rush (bobbyrushbluesman.com)

RICK OLIVIER

finalists Chad Wesley (chadwesleyband.com) / Chris Gill (chrisgillmusic.com) / Stevie J Blues (facebook.com/bluesmansteviej) / Topher Brown

finalists DJ T Money (facebook.com/djtmoney) / DJ Tank / DJ Glenn Rogers / TVBOO (facebook.com/musicbytvboo)

Best Open-Mic Night: Fenian’s Pub (901 E. Fortification St., 601-9480055, fenianspub.com)

For the ninth year in a row, Jacksonians have selected Fenian’s Pub for Best OpenMic Night, but that is not to say it’s business as usual. In July 2018, singer-songwriter Ariel Blackwell became the new host for the local haunt’s Tuesday open-mic.

“It’s been really fun,” Blackwell says.

“I’m their first female host. It’s been really exciting to watch people grow because that’s where I started when I started booking gigs—I was playing at Fenian’s open-mic.”

The appeal of the long-running event is its relaxed, encouraging atmosphere, she

says, as many in attendance are also performers. Some are acoustic artists, rappers, comedians or even vocalists looking to collaborate with a musician in the audience.

“Plain and simple, just do it,” she says.

“All it takes is that one time, and you realize how not scary it is.”

—Micah Smith finalists Bonny Blair’s Sports Cafe (1149 Old Fannin Road, Suite 16, Brandon, 769-447-5788) / Offbeat (151 Wesley Ave., 601-376-9404, offbeatjxn.com) / Ole Tavern on George Street (416 George St., 601-960-2700, oletavern.com) / Synergy Nights (The Med Bar & Grill, 1200 E. County Line Road, Ridgeland)

Best Live Music Venue: Brandon Amphitheater

(8190 Rock Way, 601-724-2726, brandonamphitheater.com)

The Brandon Amphitheater, voters’ choice for this year’s Best Live Music Venue, hit the ground running in its first year, bringing in big names—and with around 8,000 seats, big attendance numbers— to the Jackson metro area.

As many anticipated, the venue’s opening salvo of sound featured plenty of popular country acts, including Chris Stapleton, Hank Williams Jr., Jason Aldean and Brantley Gilbert. However, it also hosted more surprising selections, such as Imagine Dragons, the “I Love the ’90s” Tour, Dave Matthews Band, The Beach Boys and ODESZA. Looking ahead at the lineup for 2019 announced thus far, concertgoers can already expect a wide variety of acts, including the Zac Brown Band, comedian Jim Gaffigan and the Kidz Bop World Tour, so the amphitheater might be branching out even further in the near future.

—Micah Smith

AMBER HELSEL

Eighty-five-year-old blues musician Bobby Rush is a legend in his own right. He is a 12-time Blues Music Award winner, a 2006 Blues Hall of Fame inductee and a multi-year winner for Best Blues Artist/Band in Best of Jackson. His most recent album, “Porcupine Meat,” also won a 2017 GRAMMY Award for Best Tradition Blues Album.

On his website, Rush estimates that he has produced more than 370 songs in his 50-plus-year career. To this day he still tours 200 days a year, and has toured in countries from Japan to Lebanon. In 2007, he made history as the first blues artist to perform on the Great Wall of China.

“I am grateful to be considered among the best in Jackson because it gives me a reason to continue doing what I do, and at a level that keeps me relevant to young and old blues lovers,” Rush says. “In this day and time of my life, I appreciate the accolades, and I’m blessed to be among the last bluesmen standing.”

—Brinda Fuller Willis

CURT MCAFEE OF 242 CREATIVE

COURTESY 601 LIVE

When performing covers, 601 LIVE band manager Cario Armstrong says the members use no sampling, no tracks and or voice-overs. “We are as the name says. … We live,” he says.

601 LIVE consists of Terrell, Brinson, Sedric Brinson and John “Tice” Majors on lead vocals; and friends Donnell Williams and Tony Reaves on keys, Mike Smith on guitar, Greg Richards on bass and Eric Richards on drums.

“We are strictly a cover band for now, covering the hits of the past and present, and our fans appreciate that we can actually sing the songs and play the instruments,” Armstrong says.

The band has performed at Jackson venues such as Ish Bar & Lounge, South Street Live, Lounge 114 and more.

For more information, find the band on Facebook.

—Brinda Fuller Willis

Taking the title of Best Club DJ is a bit of a mixed bag for Phillip Rollins, mostly because he has steered away from the club scene for much of his career as DJ Young Venom. In a club setting, he says the owner often makes a decision on the music, rather than allowing the DJ to cater to the audience.

“That’s why I’ve been doing events like at Offbeat and doing stuff with my friends, like DJ Breakem Off and DJ Scrap, so just trying to stay busy,” Rollins says. “And then, at the end of the year, I made a conscious effort to do some rebranding and try to do more stuff outside of Mississippi and just some traveling. So that’s kind of the beginning of trying to do more stuff.”

Over the past year, that effort included deejaying for hip-hop artists such as 5th Child, creating new mixes and performing for events at local venues such as his The Ecoshed, Hal & Mal’s and Martin’s Downtown, and beyond.

—Micah Smith

finalists Bonny Blair’s Sports Cafe (1149 Old Fannin Road, Suite 16, Brandon, 769-447-5788) / Duling Hall (622 Duling Ave., 601-292-7121, dulinghall.com) / Hal & Mal’s (200 Commerce St., 601-948-0888, halandmals.com) / Martin’s Downtown (214 S. State St., 601-354-9712, martinsdowntownjxn.com) / Shucker’s Oyster Bar (116 Conestoga Road, Ridgeland, 601-853-0105, shuckersontherez.com)

January 23 - February 5,2019 • jfp.ms

(facebook.com/601liveband)

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finalists Burnham Road (artistecard.com/burnhamroad) / Chasin’ Dixie (facebook.com/ chasindixie) / South of 20 (artistecard.com/southof20) / Young Valley (youngvalleymusic.com)

(5thchildmusic.com)

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For regular customers of Capitol Grill, it won’t be too surprising to learn that voters selected it as this year’s Best Service Industry Hangout. “ We ’v e always had a big backing of service-industry personnel,” General Manager and Executive Chef Lance Gammill says.

“You know, most of my staff—and myself, as well— have all been in the industry for a long time, so we all sort of know each other.”

Part of the appeal for service-industry workers, he says, is that Capitol Grill often keeps its kitchen open late, sometimes until 1 a.m. The restaurant also offers half-price appetizers from 10 p.m. to midnight during the week, as well as a happy hour during that time.

“We’d like to thank all of our friends and family,” he says of the nomination. “We’ve been doing this a long time now, and we’ve gotten to know and love all of you, and we thoroughly appreciate it.”

—Micah Smith finalists F. Jones Corner (303 N. Farish St., 601-983-1148, fjonescorner.com) / Fenian’s Pub (901 E. Fortification St., 601-9480055, fenianspub.com) / Fondren Public (2765 Old Canton Road, 769-216-2589) / Sam’s Lounge (5035 Interstate 55 N., 601-983-2526) / WonderLust (3911 Northview Drive, 337-3789003, wonderlustjackson.com)

(southernkomfortbrassband.com)

COURTESY SOUTHERN KOMFORT BRASS BAND

finalists Alexander FRE$CO (alexanderfresco.com) / Dear Silas (dear-silas.com) / Dolla Black (dollablackbde.com) / Vitamin Cea (thevitamincea.com) / Yung Jewelz (facebook. com/yungjewelzmusic)

Best Jazz Artist/Group: Southern Komfort Brass Band

(5050 Interstate 55 N., Suite F, 601-8998845, capitolgrillofjackson.com)

TRIP BURNS / FILE PHOTO

For Stephen Brown, whom fans know as rapper 5th Child, winning Best Hip-Hop Artist/Group is the cap on one of the most successful years in his 15-year career.

In 2018, he chose to pull back from live shows to focus on his eighth album, “Which Way Is Up,” which then opened the door for bigger shows, including a performance with Big Freedia. It also allowed him to create music for film scores and advertisements, and lead a songwriting workshop for the Better Together Commission. He also teaches music to third- and fourth-graders in the Poindexter Park afterschool club.

For his latest Best of Jackson win to come at a time when he was doing fewer live performances, “It means people are still checking on me, basically,” he says. “That’s what’s really rewarding. … After all these years, it’s been great being able to, I guess, still be relevant when you have so many new faces.”

—Micah Smith

ADRIENNE DOMNICK

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finalists Brandon Mitchell & S.W.A.P. (brandonmitchellswap.com) / Four Washington (facebook.com/fourwashington) / Jason Gibson & Destiny Project (facebook.com/jasongibsonanddestinyproject) / Rhonda Chambers-Davis

Best Service Industry Hangout: Capitol Grill

Best Hip-Hop Artist/Group: 5th Child

COURTESY MISSISSIPPI MASS CHOIR

Best Gospel Artist/Group: Mississippi Mass Choir Last year was a momentous one for the Mississippi Mass Choir, which voters have selected as the Best Gospel Artist/Group for the fourth year in a row. In addition to its regular stream of television appearances and performances around the country, the choir celebrated its 30th “birthday” in October 2018.

In honor of the occasion, the choir posted a variety of historic photos and interviews with its founding members discussing the choir’s landmark debut, “The Mississippi Mass Choir Live,” which it recorded on Oct. 29, 1988.

The Mississippi Mass Choir’s most recent recording project, “Declaration of Dependence,” came out in 2014. However, since the organization celebrated its 20th anniversary with the release of 2008’s “The First Twenty Years,” the choir may have some new music coming sooner than later.

—Micah Smith

COURTESY JASON MILLER BAND

Best Country Artist/Band: Jason Miller Band The past year has been full of new steps for four-time Best Country Artist/ Band winner, the Jason Miller Band, which features musicians from Jackson and around the state.

For one, vocalist Jason Miller, drummer Nathan Spears, bassist Anthony Daniels, and guitarists John Andy Bowen and Jamie Bright, brought in keyboardist Matt Hancock. They also performed at new festivals and cities, delving into the music scenes at major universities. Now, the band is preparing for another big step: recording an album.

As for the Best of Jackson nomination, Miller says: “If it works out, and we win this again, big shout-out to everyone who comes out week in and week out, and listens to us whether they’ve heard 100 times. … Thanks to everyone out there that supports us and believes in us. And hey, stick with us, because we’ve got some big things coming this year.”

—Micah Smith

Jackson-based Southern Komfort Brass Band, a long-time Best of Jackson favorite, has livened up the City With Soul just about everywhere. Whether they’re packing out local music venues, performing in parades such as the Zippity DooDah and Hal’s St. Paddy’s Day Parades, or leading second lines down our city streets, chances are high that you’ve seen this talented group of musicians performing.

The band’s members are Jamie “Blophish” Abrams, Tim Boyd, Cedric Eubanks, Lorenzo Gayden, Joseph Handy, Corey Hannah, Gerard Howard, E. Antony James and Terry Miller.

For more information, find the band on Facebook.

—Natalie Long finalists Barry Leach (barryleach.com) / Pam Confer / Raphael Semmes / Vibe Doctors Jazz Project (facebook.com/vibedoctors)

Are you a finalist? Didn’t get your party invitation? Email party@jacksonfreepress.com or call 601-362-6121 x21.

Best Pub Quiz/Trivia Night: Lost Pizza Co.

Pub quiz is something that allow participants to practice important life skills such as team work and collaboration in a sometimes extremely competitive setting. The pub quiz at Lost Pizza Co. is no exception to this.

Locally, the Ridgeland and Flowood locations host trivia night on Tuesdays from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. For the game, teams have to have two or more people. Before trivia night begins, they pick a name, and then play nine rounds of trivia with three categories in each round. Participants will answer questions about everything from “Lord of the Rings” lore to Super Bowl trivia to fashion.

Winning teams also have a chance to compete in regional, state and national trivia nights.

For more information, find Lost Pizza Co. on Facebook or visit challengeentertainment.com.

—Amber Helsel finalists Fenian’s Pub (901 E. Fortification St., fenianspub.com) / The Flamingo (now closed, flamingojxn. com) / Highland Village (4500 Interstate 55 N., highlandvillagems.com) / Library Lounge (Fairview Inn, 734 Fairview St., fairviewinn.com) / The Pig & Pint (3139 N. State St., pigandpint.com)

(444 Bounds St., 601-718-7665)

It is no small feat to conquer a Best of Jackson category the way that the Green Room has with Best Place to Play Pool. Every year since 2005, voters have selected the local pool hall for the honor, which is not to say that the metro area is lacking in places to play.

From beginners to the most hardcore of pool aficionados, customers can enjoy league and team play on topnotch pool equipment.

On top of its pool offerings, the Green Room is known for its bar foods and drink specials. Even people who would be more likely to hit a cornea than a corner pocket will likely find something to munch on, with options such as Philly cheesesteak sandwiches, burgers, nachos, cheese sticks and chicken wings.

—Micah Smith

TRIP BURNS / FILE PHOTO

finalists Angela Pittman (Krazy Karaoke) / Charlie Keister (Ole Tavern on George Street, 416 George St., 601960-2700, oletavern.com) / Matt Collette / Rob Lehman (crowdpleasersdj.com)

COURTESY DJ STACHE

This year’s Best Karaoke DJ, DJ Stache, also known as Casey Hardigree. has been keeping the City of Soul entertained with his live karaoke events for nine years, hosting karaoke at Ole Tavern on George Street. In Best of Jacksons of years past, Hardigree has managed to be a finalist in the category, but this year, Jacksonians voted him as the best.

Just in time. On June 20, 2018, he decided to retire from karaoke.

“I’m so grateful for being able to do this as long as I have,” he said on his Facebook page.

Though he is no longer a karaoke DJ, you can still check him out at his day job at Walker’s Drive-In, or entice him for a reunion karaoke showdown at Charlie’s F’in Karaoke at Ole Tavern on Wednesday nights.

—Natalie Long

(500 Highway 51, Ridgeland, 769-3003116; 144 Friendly and Fresh Drive, Flowood, 601-345-8679; lostpizza.com)

Best Place to Play Pool: The Green Room

finalists One Block East (642 Tombigbee St., 601-944-0203, oneblockeast.com) / Pop’s Saloon (2636 S. Gallatin St., 601961-4747) / Sam’s Lounge (5035 Interstate 55 N., 601-9832526) / Shucker’s Oyster Bar (116 Conestoga Road, Ridgeland, 601-853-0105, shuckersontherez.com) / WonderLust (3911 Northview Drive, 337-378-9003, wonderlustjackson.com)

TONE LOC & COLOR ME BADD

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2019

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2019

Tickets $30 plus ticketmaster fees

FUEL

Tickets $40 plus ticketmaster fees A

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January 23 - February 5,2019 • jfp.ms

Best Karaoke DJ: DJ Stache

(Ole Tavern on George Street, 416 George St., 601-960-2700, oletavern.com)

Must be at least 21. Gambling Problem? Call 1-888-777-9696. ©2019 Penn National Gaming, Inc. All rights reser ved.

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Best Place for Cocktails; Place for a First Date; Happy Hour; Margarita; Outdoor Dining: Babalu Tapas & Tacos (622 Duling Ave., Suite 106, 601-366-5757, eatbabalu.com)

Best Place for Cocktails finalists The Apothecary at Brent’s Drugs (655 Duling Ave., apothecaryjackson.com) / Barrelhouse (3009 N. State St., 769-216-3167, barrelhousems.com) / BRAVO! Italian Restaurant & Bar (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 244, 601-982-8111, bravobuzz.com) / CAET Wine Bar (3100 N. State St., Suite 102, 601-321-9169, caetwinebar.com) / Fine & Dandy (100 District Blvd. E., 601-202-5050, eatdandy.com)

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Best Place for a First Date finalists 4th Avenue Lounge (200 S. Lamar St., 769-572-4669, 4thavenuejxn.com) / Amerigo (6592 Old Canton Road, 601-977-0563; 155 Market St., Flowood, 601-992-1550; amerigo.net) / Fine & Dandy (100 District Blvd. E., 601-202-5050, eatdandy.com) / The Manship Wood Fired Kitchen (1200 N. State St., Suite 100, 601-398-4562, themanshipjackson.com) / Walker’s Drive In (3016 N. State St., 601-982-2633, walkersdrivein.com)

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Best Happy Hour finalists 4th Avenue Lounge (200 S. Lamar St., 769-572-4669, 4thavenuejxn.com) / CAET Wine Bar (3100 N. State St., Suite 102, 601-321-9169, caetwinebar.com) / Fondren Public (2765 Old Canton Road, 769-2162589) / The Manship Wood Fired Kitchen (1200 N. State St., Suite 100, 601-398-4562, themanshipjackson. com) / Saltine Restaurant (622 Duling Ave., Suite 201, 601-982-2899, saltinerestaurant.com) Best Margarita finalists El Sombrero (640 Highway 80 E., Clinton, 601-925-8282; 12 Airstream Lane, Byram, 601-9469299; 278 Dogwood Blvd., 601-919-8921) / Papitos Mexican Restaurant and Grill (multiple locations, papitosmexicanrestaurant.com) / Picante’s Mexican Grill (960 N. State St., 601-398-1344; 132 Port Gibson St., Raymond, 601-526-9070) / Sombra Mexican Kitchen (140 Township Ave., Suite 100, Ridgeland, 601707-7950; 111 Market St., Flowood, 601-215-5445, sombramexicankitchen.com) Best Outdoor Dining finalists Aplós (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 174, 601-714-8989, eataplos.com) / Fine & Dandy (100 District Blvd. E., 601-202-5050, eatdandy.com) / Keifer’s (120 N. Congress St., 601-353-49756; 710 Poplar Blvd., 601-355-6825, keifers.net) / The Pig & Pint (3139 N. State St., 601-326-6070, pigandpint.com)

(730 Lakeland Drive, 601-366-6033, aladdininjackson.com) TRIP BURNS / FILE PHOTO

TRIP BURNS / FILE PHOTO

Multiple-category winner Babalu Tapas & Tacos is one of the places to be in Jackson, whether you’re going out friends and or the family, or even for a business meeting. For one thing, its name is an “I Love Lucy” reference, so of course, the business projects episodes of the show on the wall adjacent from the hostess stand.

But Babalu is more than that. For one thing, its patio space is one of the best places to chill out with people, whether you feel like sitting at a normal table or if you’re on a date and want to sit in a more relaxing space.

The restaurant is also known for its margaritas. It does have a seasonal special, but it also has something else: Margarita Mondays, where all on the menu are $5.

For those who like a tiny bit of entertainment with their meal, patrons can request guacamole, and someone will make it right at their table.

Tacos is in the name, so at least once, you should try one of those dishes. The menu includes options such as roasted chicken with roast corn, cotija cheese, tomatoes and a cumin lime aioli; and a cauliflower taco with comeback sauce, cilantro slaw and radish. Babalu’s menu also features dishes such as the torta Cubana, which has pulled pork, ham, pickles, a sweet mustard barbecue sauce and Swiss cheese; and shrimp and grits with an herb creole sauce, mushrooms and cilantro. The restaurant has desserts such as cheesecake bites, cinnamon bread pudding, and Babalu butter cake.

For more information, visit eatbabalu.com.

—Armani T. Fryer

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

Aladdin Mediterranean Restaurant is one of Jackson’s premiere spots for Mediterranean food and healthy options. The restaurant has glutenfree, vegetarian and vegan choices for its customers, including tzeki salad, meat or veggie dolmas (stuffed grape leaves), a lamb shank plate and more.

The restaurant’s hummus, which blends tahini paste, lemon and pureed chickpeas, is definitely a popular choice for Jacksonians, as it won Best Hummus this year. And the restaurant’s menu has other options such as sandwiches like beef kababs and even a burger. Aladdin also has a multitude of desserts, like baklava and Burma.

Right next door to the restaurant also sits Aladdin Mediterranean Grocery, where you can buy Mediterranean products.

For more information, find the business on Facebook.

—Jenna Gibson Best Place for Healthy Food finalists Aplós (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 174, 601-714-8989, eataplos. com) / Crossroads Café (398 Highway 51, Ridgeland, 601-790-7141) / freshii (748 MacKenzie Lane, Flowood, 601-718-0020; 120 District Blvd.

E., 769-235-1632; freshii.com/us) / Kale Me Crazy (1067 Highland Colony Pkwy., Suite D, Ridgeland, 601-499-0459, kalemecrazy.net) / Mama Nature’s Juice Bar (655 Lake Harbour Drive, Suite 400, Ridgeland, 601-4994936, mamanatureswellness.com) Best Place for Hummus finalists Aplós (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 174, 601-714-8989, eataplos.com) / Athenos Greek & Lebanese Cafe (111 Colony Crossing, Suite 490, Madison, 601-605-1400, athenoscafe.com) / Babalu Tapas & Tacos (622 Duling Ave., Suite 106, 601-366-5757, eatbabalu.com) / Keifer’s (120 N. Congress St., 601353-49756; 710 Poplar Blvd., 601-355-6825, keifers.net) / Zeek’z (96 Laurel Park Drive, Flowood, 769-572-4802, zeekzdogwood.com) Best Vegetarian Options finalists Aplós (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 174, 601-714-8989, eataplos.com) / BRAVO! Italian Restaurant & Bar (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 244, 601-9828111, bravobuzz.com) / freshii (748 MacKenzie Lane, Flowood, 601-718-0020; 120 District Blvd. E., 769-235-1632; freshii.com) / Mama Nature’s Juice Bar (655 Lake Harbour Drive, Suite 400, Ridgeland, 601-499-4936, mamanatureswellness.com) Best Ethnic Market finalists Carnicería Valdez (2275 Highway 80, 601-352-6300; 6530 Old Canton Road, Ridgeland, 601-899-6992) / Mr. Chen’s (5465 Interstate 55 N., 601-978-1865, mrchensjackson.com) / Patel Brothers (1999 Highway 80 W., Suite 15, 601-353-6611; 6800 Old Canton Road, Ridgeland, 601-952-0332, patelbros.com)

Are you a finalist? Didn’t get your party invitation? Email party@jacksonfreepress.com or call 601-362-6121 x21

Best Local French Fries; Mediterranean Food; Hangover Food: Keifer’s

If you want a restaurant that has food to help you get through your hangover, good local fries and Mediterranean food, look no further than Keifer’s. The multi-year Best of Jackson winner placed first in all three of those categories this year.

First off, the fries themselves are probably one of the best hangover foods you can find in Jackson. And Keifer’s has two types: curly and cottage fries, or ones that are sliced length-wise from a potato. The cottage fries by themselves are good, but the feta dressing that comes with them makes them taste even better.

If you need something more substantive than fries, Keifer’s also has gyros, including the chicken Yavne with onions, barbecue sauce and lettuce, and the veggie cheese with mozzarella or feta cheese, lettuce, onion, tomatoes, peppers and zazeeki; and salads like the Grecian, which has lettuce, tomato, cucumber, olives, peppers, feta cheese, veggies and onions. And if people tell you to get the pita mozz, or grilled mozzarella on top of a pita and served with feta dressing, listen to what they’re saying.

For more information, visit keifers.net or keifersdowntown.com. —Amber Helsel

Best Local Fried Chicken finalists Char Restaurant (4500 Interstate 55 N., 601-956-9562, jackson.charrestaurant.com) / Fannin Mart Restaurant (5419 Highway 25, Suite M, Flowood, 601-992-0411) / The Gathering at Livingston (106 Livingston Church Road, Flora, 601-667-4282, livingstonmercantile.com) / Primos Cafe (2323 Lakeland Drive, Flowood, 601-936-3398; 515 Lake Harbour Drive, Ridgeland, 601-898-3600; 201 Baptist Drive, Madison, 601-853-3350, primoscafe.com) / Rooster’s (2906 N. State St., 601-982-2001, glennfoods.com) Best Lunch Counter or Lunch Buffet finalists Brent’s Drugs (655 Duling Ave., 601-366-3427) / Ichiban Chinese Buffet (multiple locations, ichibanbuffetms.com) / McDade’s Markets (1220 E. Northside Drive, 601-366-8486; 653 Duling Ave., 601-366-5273; mcdadesmarkets.com) / Primos Cafe (2323 Lakeland Drive, Flowood, 601-936-3398; 515 Lake Harbour Drive, Ridgeland, 601-898-3600; 201 Baptist Drive, Madison, 601-853-3350, primoscafe.com) / Spice Avenue (4711 Interstate 55 N., 601982-0890, spiceavenuerestaurant.com/v1) Best Soul Food finalists Bully’s Restaurant (3118 Livingston Road, 601-362-0484) / Gloria’s Kitchen (2430 Bailey Ave., 601-362-0009; 3417 N. West St., 601-397-6173) / Sugar’s Place (168 W. Griffith St., 601-352-2364) / The Trace Grill (574 Highway 51, Suite F, Ridgeland, 601-853-1014, thetracegrill.com)

(115 Laurel Park Cove, Suite 105, Flowood, 769-257-7586, halfshelloysterhouse.com)

When Half Shell Oyster House opened in Flowood, it definitely brought a little piece of the ocean with it.

Owner Bob Taylor opened the first location in Gulfport, Miss., in 2009, and in the intervening years, the restaurant expanded to other Mississippi cities, including Hattiesburg and Biloxi, and to Florida and Alabama. In September 2015, Half Shell expanded to the metro area, opening a location near Market Street in Flowood.

The business’ oyster selection includes classics such as charbroiled oysters with a white wine, butter, garlic and herb sauce; oysters Rockefeller cooked with spinach, cream cheese, herbs and Pernod, and topped with Parmesan cheese; and specialty ones like the oysters Orleans, which are charbroiled over an open flame and basted with

Best Local French Fries finalists Aplós (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 174, 601-714-8989, eataplos.com) / CAET Wine Bar (3100 N. State St., Suite 102, 601-321-9169, caetwinebar.com) / Fine & Dandy (100 District Blvd. E., 601-202-5050, eatdandy.com) / The Manship Wood Fired Kitchen (1200 N. State St., Suite 100, 601-398-4562, themanshipjackson.com) / Rooster’s (2906 N. State St., 601-982-2001, glennfoods.com) Best Mediterranean Food finalists Aladdin Mediterranean Restaurant (730 Lakeland Drive, 601-366-6033, aladdin injackson.com) / Aplós (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 174, 601-714-8989, eataplos. com) / Athenos Greek & Lebanese Cafe (111 Colony Crossing, Suite 490, Madison, 601-605-1400, athenoscafe.com) / Yiayia’s Greek Kitchen (587 Highway 51, Suite J, Ridgeland, 601-853-1110, yiayiasgreekkitchen.net) / Zeek’z (96 Laurel Park Drive, Flowood, 769-572-4802, zeekzdogwood.com) Best Hangover Food finalists Brent’s Drugs (655 Duling Ave., 601-366-3427) / Fenian’s Pub (901 E. Fortification St.; 601-948-0055; fenianspub.com) / The Pig & Pint (3139 N. State St., 601-326-6070, pigandpint. com) / Rooster’s (2906 N. State St., 601-982-2001, glennfoods.com)

COURTESY HALF SHELL OYSTER HOUSE

Best Place for Oysters; Seafood: Half Shell Oyster House

TRIP BURNS / FILE PHOTO

(120 N. Congress St., 601-353-49756; 710 Poplar Blvd., 601-355-6825, keifers.net) COURTESY MAMA HAMIL

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

Buffets are always nice because they let you get a variety of different foods for one flat price. That way, you can try a little bit of everything. And at Mama Hamil’s—this year’s winner for Best Local Fried Chicken, Lunch Counter or Buffet, and Soul Food— that is exactly what you can get. The main dishes include meatloaf on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday; red beans and rice on Tuesday and Thursday; its acclaimed fried chicken Monday-Saturday. Mama Hamil’s also has southern sides such as fried okra, turnip greens and barbecue beans; desserts such as banana and bread puddings; and for those who want something a little lighter, Mama Hamil’s also has dishes such as cucumber and tomato salad, and a California kale salad.

The restaurant has catering options, and a private event room. For more information, visit hamils.com.

—Amber Helsel

a New Orleans-style smokey Cajun sauce. For those who like seafood in general, Half Shell also has a menu that includes dishes such as seafood pot pie, seafood-stuff Portobello mushrooms, seafood-centric pastas and more.

For more information, find the business on Facebook or visit halfshelloysterhouse.com.

—Amber Helsel

Best Seafood finalists Crab’s Seafood Shack (6954 Old Canton Road, Ridgeland, 601-956-5040) / Drago’s Seafood Restaurant (1005 E. County Line Road, 601-957-1515, dragosrestaurant. com) / Sal & Phil’s Seafood & Lounge (6600 Old Canton Road, Ridgeland, 601-957-1188) / Saltine Restaurant (622 Duling Ave., Suite 201, 601-982-2899, saltinerestaurant. com) / Seafood R’evolution (1000 Highland Colony Pkwy., Ridgeland, 601-853-3474, seafoodrevolution.com) Best Place for Oysters finalists Drago’s Seafood Restaurant (1005 E. County Line Road, 601-957-1515, dragosrestaurant.com) / Saltine Restaurant (622 Duling Ave., Suite 201, 601-982-2899, saltinerestaurant.com) / Seafood R’evolution (1000 Highland Colony Pkwy., Ridgeland, 601-853-3474, seafoodrevolution.com) / Shucker’s Oyster Bar (116 Conestoga Road, Ridgeland, 601853-0105, shuckersontherez.com)

January 23 - February 5,2019 • jfp.ms

Best Local Fried Chicken; Lunch Counter or Buffet; Soul Food: Mama Hamil’s Southern Cookin’ & BBQ

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Best Breakfast; Best Place for Dessert: Primos Cafe

Best Chinese Food; Sushi/Japanese: Ichiban Chinese Buffet, Ichiban Hibachi & Sushi

This year’s winner for Best Breakfast, Primos Café, understands the importance of a good breakfast. And for the breakfast connoisseurs who will eat eggs, bacon and pancakes at any time of the day, you’re in luck. It doesn’t matter if you go to the Jackson, Ridgeland or Madison locations at 6:45 a.m. or 8:30 p.m.; you can still enjoy menu items such as buttermilk pancakes, omelets, parfaits, chicken biscuits and more. And if you just really want breakfast catered, Primos has a breakfast buffet.

For those who enjoy the sweeter side of life, the restaurant is also this year’s Best Place for Dessert. The restaurants are renowned for their cakes, which include caramel, Italian cream and German chocolate; lemon ice box or pecan pies; desserts such as petit fours and fudge squares; cookies in flavors such as oatmeal and peanut butter; and more. For those who want something savory, Primos also has cheese straws and bursts.

For more information, visit primoscafe.com.

—Amber Helsel

If you go away from the Ichiban buffet hungry, it’s your own fault. There are nearly 100 items on the buffet menu, with everything from Asian donuts to 13 different ways to cook chicken. You can choose from seafood dishes such as boiled shrimp, soups such as egg drop soup, and noodles and cake. Ichiban also offers “American food” like hotdogs, pizza and apple pie. One of the coolest things about the Flowood location is the sushi conveyor belt.

It runs around the sushi bar and every few minutes, the sushi chef places a small plate of two sushi pieces on the belt and it travels around the bar. People sitting next to the conveyor belt can pluck off as many plates as they want.

Another cool thing about Ichiban is it’s not just a buffet. There’s also Ichiban Hibachi & Sushi in Flowood and Pearl. The menu includes everything from bento boxes with in choices like chicken teriyaki and shrimp tempura to hibachi in choices like vegetable delight, and filet and lobster.

For more information, find the businesses on Facebook.

—Dawn Dugle

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

Best Place for Dessert finalists Amerigo (6592 Old Canton Road, 601-977-0563; 155 Market St., Flowood, 601-9921550, amerigo.net) / BRAVO! Italian Restaurant & Bar (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 244, 601982-8111, bravobuzz.com) / La Brioche Patisserie (2906 N. State St., 601-988-2299; La Brioche at the Museum, 380 S. Lamar St., 601-965-9900, labriochems.com) / Lou’s Full-Serv (904 E. Fortification St., Suite B, 601-487-6359) / The Manship Wood Fired Kitchen (1200 N. State St., Suite 100, 601-398-4562, themanshipjackson.com)

Best Beer Selection at a Store: McDade’s Markets

January 23 - February 5,2019 • jfp.ms

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These days, beer doesn’t have to just be domestic or imported. Data from the Brewers Association shows that retail dollar sales of craft beer now account for more than 23 percent of the $111.4-billion beer market in the U.S. The trend has caught on here in Mississippi, as the state now has at least eight breweries. McDade’s Markets do have domestic and imported beers, but the stores now also put a focus on craft beer. The stores also have growlers, or a 64-ounce glass jug for the beers on tap. McDade’s charges a one-time fee for the growler, and the next time, the customer only pays for the beer.

For more information, visit mcdades markets.com.

—Amber Helsel finalists Barley’s Beer Barn (1716 Highway 51, Suite E, Madison, 601-790-7901) / Hops & Habanas (2771 Old Canton Road, 769-572-4631; hopsandhabanas.com) / LD’s Beer Run (5006 Parkway Drive, 769-208-8686)

Best Chinese Food finalists Hunan Wok Carry Out (6556 Old Canton Road, 601-956-8988) / Mr. Chen’s Restaurant (5465 Interstate 55 N., 601-978-1865, mrchensjackson.com) / Tokyo Tasty Chinese & Sushi Buffet (1410 Old Square Road, 769-216-2420, tokyotastybuffet.com) / Wok To Go (4329 N. State St., 601-981-2112) Best Sushi/Japanese finalists Bonsai Japanese Steakhouse (1925 Lakeland Drive, 601-981-0606; 102 Clinton Center Drive, Clinton, 601-924-4448; bonsaijxn.com) / Edo Japanese Restaurant (5834 Ridgewood Road, Suite C, 601-899-8518) / Nagoya Japanese Sushi Bar (6351 Interstate 55 N., Suite 131, 601-977-8881; 111 Colony Crossing, Suite 380, Madison, 601-856-5678) / Osaka Japanese Restaurant (4325 Lakeland Drive, Flowood, 601-936-7000) / Sakura Bana (4800 Interstate 55 N., Suite 11, 601-982-3035, sakurabanajackson.com)

Best Food Truck/Mobile Vendor: One Guy Steak and Chicken

Best Meal Under $10: The Trace Grill

This year’s winner for Best Food Truck/ Mobile Vendor, One Guy Steak and Chicken, is one of the trucks in Jackson you need to find.

Owner and chef Kendrick M. Gordon makes that easy. With an online “Where’s the truck?” feature on his website, customers can easily access the truck’s ever-changing location.

The menu includes dishes like grilled filet mignon with leek-mashed potatoes and a tarragon cream sauce; a blackened chicken sandwich with applewood bacon, smoked gouda cheese, fries and One Guy’s specialty sauce; and more.

The food truck is available for events Monday through Friday.

At its location on Lakeland Drive, the food truck is open on Saturday from 11 p.m. to 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., and on Sunday from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

For more information, find the business on Facebook.

—Jenna Gibson

Best Meal Under $10 winner Trace Grill is a family-friendly restaurant with classic homecooked southern food, and the best part is it’s affordable, too. Trace Grill has won in the category of best meal under $10, and there’s plenty on the menu to choose from within that amount. For example, the blue-plate specials with cornbread and a drink is just $9.50 just to start. All of their burgers and sandwiches are under $10, every single one of them. Red beans and rice and hot dogs are under $10 too, I could keep going but you get the point.

For more information, find the business on Facebook.

—Sarah Pollard

(574 Highway 51, Suite F, Ridgeland, 601-853-1014, thetracegrill.com)

(601-503-5908, oneguysteakchicken.com) FILE PHOTO

(1220 E. Northside Drive, 601-3668486; 653 Duling Ave., 601-3665273; mcdadesmarkets.com)

COURTESY ICHIBAN

TRIP BURNS / FILE PHOTO

Best Breakfast finalists Brent’s Drugs (655 Duling Ave., 601-366-3427) / Broad Street Baking Company (4465 Interstate 55 N., Suite 101, 601-362-2900, broadstbakery.com) / Jo’s Diner (241 Ridge Way, Flowood, 601-988-9000, josdiner.net) / The Manship Wood Fired Kitchen (1200 N. State St., Suite 100, 601-398-4562, themanshipjackson.com)

(mulitple locations, ichibanbuffetms.com)

finalists 2 for 7 Kitchen (601-837-1794) / 30 Below Rolled Ice Cream (601-720-3847) / Chunky Dunks Sweets Truck (601-506-5951) / Dutch’s Oven Street Food (505-400-8927, dutchsovenfoodtruck.com) / LurnyD’s Grille (now closed)

finalists Aladdin Mediterranean Restaurant (730 Lakeland Drive, 601-366-6033, aladdininjackson.com) / Aplós (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 174, 601-7148989, eataplos.com) / Basil’s (2906 N. State St., Suite 104, 601-982-2100; 120 N. Congress St., Suite L1, 601-944-9888) / Hibachi Express (117 Highway 80, Clinton, 601-488-4068) / McDade’s Markets (1220 E. Northside Drive, 601-366-8486; 653 Duling Ave., 601366-5273; mcdadesmarkets.com)

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BATTLING BORING LIBATIONS SINCE 2011 Woodland Hills Shopping Center 633 Duling Ave. | 769.216.2323 fondrencellars.com

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2019 MISSISSIPPI CHILDREN’S MUSEUM • 7:00 PM

SURIN OF THAILAND Lunch Hours /QP 5CV CO RO ^ 5WP CO RO Dinner Hours 5WP 6JWTU RO ^ (TK 5CV RO (WNN &TKPM 5WUJK $CT .CTIG 1WVFQQT 2CVKQ 2TKXCVG &KPKPI 4QQO )TGCV (QQF (TGUJ 5WUJK #UM CDQWV QWT %WUVQOGT .Q[CNV[ 2TQITCO

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This event supports the Mississippi Children’s Museum in its efforts to inspire the children of Mississippi to discover and achieve their potential as they learn and play inside an innovative place created just for them.

ABOUT IGNITE THE NIGHT On February 9, 2019, MCM Partners is inviting grown-ups to take over the museum! Patrons will be headed seaside at MCM during Ignite the Night: Hamptons Holiday. Don’t have a helicopter or weekend estate? Dress your most preppy summer chic, and we’ll bring all the charm and style of Long Island’s East End to Jackson!

On this special evening, guests can bid on swanky silent auction $ Ê#+& $

+ +Ê&Y$ łÊ $

ÊÉ & + ÊÇ$ É& + ( Ê at whimsical lawn games, and get a taste of the New York Elite’s most luxurious night life. It may be February outside, but nothing says summer like a night out in the Hamptons!

SPONSORED BY

BEST THAI $'56 1( ,#%-510

3000 Old Canton Road, Suite 105, Jackson | (601)981-3205 Like us on Facebook! www.surinofthailand.com surinofthailandjxn@gmail.com

PURCHASE TICKETS TODAY! mschildrensmuseum.org • 601.981.5469

January 23 - February 5, 2019 • jfp.ms

*CRR[ *QWT '8'4; &#; YKVJ 0'9 (QQF &TKPM 5RGEKCNU

MCM PARTNERS’ SIGNATURE FUNDRAISING EVENT

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Best Fine Dining; Restaurant: Char Restaurant

Place to Get Coffee; College Student Hangout: Cups Espresso Café

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

Best Place to Get Coffee finalists Deep South Pops (1800 N. State St., 601-398-2174; 4500 Interstate 55 N. Frontage Road, 601-398-0623, deepsouthpops.com) / Fusion Coffeehouse (1111 Highland Colony Pkwy., Ridgeland, 601-856-6001, fusioncoffeehouse.com) / M7 Coffeehouse (111 N. Wheatley St., Ridgeland, 601-790-7971) / Mocha Mugs (1800 W. Government St., Brandon, 601-825-1006; 5610 Highway 25, Brandon, 601-919-3684; 119 Grandview Blvd., Madison, 601-605-0160; mochamugs.com) / Sneaky Beans (2914 N. State St., 601-487-6349)

Best Restaurant finalists BRAVO! Italian Restaurant & Bar (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 244, 601-9828111, bravobuzz.com) / Fine & Dandy (100 District Blvd. E., 601-202-5050, eatdandy. com) / Lou’s Full-Serv (904 E. Fortification St., Suite B, 601-487-6359) / The Manship Wood Fired Kitchen (1200 N. State St., Suite 100, 601-398-4562, themanshipjackson. com) / Walker’s Drive In (3016 N. State St., 601-982-2633, walkersdrivein.com)

Best College Student Hangout finalists Deep South Pops (1800 N. State St., 601-398-2174; 4500 Interstate 55 N. Frontage Road, 601-398-0623, deepsouthpops.com) / Fenian’s Pub (901 E. Fortification St., 601948-0055, fenianspub.com) / Fondren Public (2765 Old Canton Road, 769-216-2589) / Ole Tavern on George Street (416 George St., 601-960-2700, oletavern.com) / Sneaky Beans (2914 N. State St., 601-487-6349)

Best Barbecue: The Pig & Pint

Best Crawfish: The Crawdad Hole

Barbecue is almost a universal language. Across the globe, there’s Korean barbecue and Japan’s yakiniku (a word for grilled meat cuisine), and right here at home, there’s Memphis barbecue, Carolina barbecue, St. Louis barbecue and more. Mississippi’s barbecue cuisine, at least here in Jackson, tends to pull from the different types in the South, and The Pig & Pint exhibits that. The restaurant has a type of barbecue to fit different tastes, whether you like smoked wings with an Alabama-style white barbecue sauce, Pepsi-glazed ribs or just a regular barbecue sandwich. The menu also includes more modern dishes such as disco fries with nacho cheese, barbecue sauce and more, pork belly corn dogs, and pork, brisket, chicken or friedgreen-tomato tacos.

For more information, visit pigandpint.com.

—Amber Helsel

The Crawdad Hole owner Joe Schowah has been serving the Jackson metro his crawfish since 1995. He started boiling the crustaceans in a single room take-out restaurant but has worked his way up and perfected his craft. Although The Crawdad Hole is best known for crawfish, at $5.69 a pound, that’s not the only dish on the menu. The restaurant also has an assortment of seafood and non-seafood items for customers to choose from.

Crab legs, shrimp and gumbo are just some of the fan favorites off the menu. Of course, what pairs best with crawfish is exactly what they have on the menu of sides: potatoes, corn and sausage. If seafood isn’t your thing, don’t worry they have tamales and turkey necks, too.

—Sarah Pollard

January 23 - February 5,2019 • jfp.ms

finalists E&L Barbeque (1111 Bailey Ave., 601-355-5035) / Hickory Pit (1491 Canton Mart Road, 601-956-7079, hickorypitms.com) / Little Willie’s BBQ (115 Village Square, Suite G, Brandon, 601-992-6328; 3015 Highway 80 E., 601397-6698; littlewilliesbarbecue.com) / Smokehouse BBQ (2227 Highway 471, Brandon, 601-829-0520) / Sylvester’s MS Style BBQ (9434 Highway 18, Raymond, 601-3468000)

(1150 Lakeland Drive, 601-982-9299)

finalists The Crawfish Hut (6956 Old Canton Road, Ridgeland, 601-956-3474) / Mudbugs (1299 Old Fannin Road, Brandon, 601-992-5225; 151 W. Government St., Suite D, Brandon, 601-706-4751; mudbugscrawfish.com) / Sal & Phil’s Seafood & Lounge (6600 Old Canton Road, Ridgeland, 601-957-1188) / T’Beaux’s Crawfish and Catering (941 Highway 80 E., Clinton, 601-926-4793; 5252-B Terry Road, Byram, 769-230-3855; tbeauxs.com)

Best Bakery: Campbell’s Bakery

(3013 N. State St., 601-362-4628; 123 Jones St., Madison, 769-300-2790, campbellsbakery.ms)

To get your treat and baked goods fix in, why not try Jackson’s oldest bakery? When Mitchell Moore took over this year’s winner for Best Bakery, Campbell’s Bakery, it had been an institution in Jackson for 50 years. He reopened the bakery on March 23, 2011. In 2016, the business expanded to Madison, and Moore has plans to open a Campbell’s Craft Donuts in the up-and-coming Belhaven Town Center. Campbell’s has baked goods of all types, from cupcakes, cookies and petit-fours, to cakes and pies. For those who are gluten-sensitive, the shop has treats such as gluten-free cupcakes, cookies and more.

For more information, find the business on Facebook.

—Armani T. Fryer finalists Broad Street Baking Company (4465 Interstate 55 N., Suite 101, broadstbakery.com) / La Brioche Patisserie (2906 N. State St., 601-988-2299; La Brioche at the Museum, 380 S. Lamar St., 601-965-9900, labriochems.com) / The Prickly Hippie (500 Highway 51, Suite F, Ridgeland,pricklyhippie. com) / Primos Cafe (2323 Lakeland Drive, Flowood, 601936-3398; 515 Lake Harbour Drive, Ridgeland, 601-8983600; 201 Baptist Drive, Madison, 601-853-3350, primoscafe.com) / Sugar Magnolia Takery (5417 Highway 25, Suite F, Flowood, 601-992-8110)

ZILPHA YOUNG

Cups Espresso Café is a cool, relaxed and chill spot for a college students to study in peace, while enjoying a warm cup of coffee or other drinks such as a mocha. Luckily, Cups has locations across the metro area. Some of the business’ coffee specialties include regular drip coffee, cold brew coffee, shots in the dark (espresso in drip coffee) and more. For more adventurous types, the Cups in Fondren also has nitro coffee, which gives the beverage a beer-like feel. The locations also have treat options such as Umpqua Oats, muffins and cream cheese Danishes. For those who enjoy art, many of the locations also feature work from local artists.

For more information, visit cupsespressocafe.com.

—Armani T. Fryer

Best Fine Dining finalists BRAVO! Italian Restaurant & Bar (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 244, 601-982-8111, bravobuzz.com) / Ely’s Restaurant & Bar (115 W. Jackson St., Suite 2E, Ridgeland, 601605-6359, elysrestaurant.com) / Koestler Prime (1000 Highland Colony Pkwy., Suite 6001, 601-957-3753, koestlerprime.com) / The Manship Wood Fired Kitchen (1200 N. State St., Suite 100, 601-398-4562, themanshipjackson.com) / Walker’s Drive In (Walker’s Drive In, 3016 N. State St., 601-982-2633, walkersdrivein.com)

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

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(multiple locations; cupsespressocafe.com)

COURTESY CHAR

This year’s winner for Best Fine Dining and Best Restaurant, Char Restaurant, is a longtime Jackson favorite. The restaurant, which now has locations in Nashville and Memphis, Tenn., has an extensive menu that includes everything from country fried chicken with garlic cheddar stone grits and red onion-bacon gravy to chargrilled Mahi with Delta Grind garlic cheddar grits, grilled asparagus, jumbo lump crab meat and a sriracha butter sauce.

The restaurant also has private dining rooms and banquet rooms for meetings, luncheons and special events. Char is open from Monday to Friday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., until 10:30 on Friday and Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Sunday.

For more information, find the business on Facebook.

—Sarah Pollard

Proudly Presents our 2019 Films

All Dates & Times at Malco Grandview Theater Thursday January 24, 7 PM

Bye Bye Germany

Living in postwar Europe, David Berman and his friends, all Holocaust survivors, have only one purpose: to go to America as soon as possible. For this they need money. Close to his aim, David is not only deprived of his savings but also overtaken by his shady past.

What you did to stay alive before could come back to haunt you.

Saturday January 26, 7 PM

The Last Suit

Abraham Bursztein, an 88 year-old Jewish tailor, runs away from Buenos Aires to Poland, where he proposes to find a friend who saved him from certain death at the end of World War II. After seven decades without any contact with him, Abraham will try to find his old friend and keep his promise to return one day.

Sunday January 27, 2 PM

GI Jews: Jewish Americans in World War II GI JEWS: JEWISH AMERICANS IN WORLD WAR II is the first documentary to tell the profound and unique story of the 550,000 Jewish men and women who served in World War II. Their extraordinary experiences are at the heart of the film, telling the story of World War II from a uniquely Jewish perspective. A story of immigrants - who earned their American citizenship by shedding blood.

Tuesday January 29, 7 PM In present day Jerusalem, a city increasingly dominated by religious fanaticism, Naomi, a secular young woman seeks refuge from the pressure of her life as a concert pianist in Tel Aviv. Naomi quickly makes two unexpected connections - one with a musically gifted Ultra-Orthodox young boy and the other, with Fabrizio, a charismatic Italian monk and organist - relationships that make her a target in her new community. Faced with escalating isolation and violence, Naomi must learn to use music as a bridge to overcome towering religious barriers.

FOR TICKETS AND INFORMATION PLEASE VISIT:

www.jewishcinemams.com

January 23 - February 5, 2019 • jfp.ms

A Quiet Heart

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Best Brunch: The Iron Horse Grill

Best Doughnuts: Donut Palace

If you need somewhere for a lunch break or a relaxing brunch while enjoying some live music, one of the best places to do that in town is The Iron Horse Grill. The Jackson landmark, which gets its name from an old term for a steam train, burned down twice since its opening as the Armour Smokehouse in 1906. It reopened in 2014 and has not stopped since. For brunch, patrons can enjoy a waffle and omelet bar from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Sunday, while listening to live music. During brunch, The Iron Horse also has bottomless mimosas. If you want a music experience with your meal, the restaurant also has the Mississippi Music Experience wax museum upstairs.

The Iron Horse Grill is open Monday through Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Thursday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to midnight, and Sunday 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information, call 601-398-0151 or visit theironhorsegrill.com.

—Armani T. Fryer

The people have voted, and Donut Palace is the place to go when you need a sweet treat. The business’ menu has just the right balance of the classic and other options for treats that aren’t doughnuts.

The locations have croissants with options like ham, egg, cheese, sausage and multiple other great combos. Donut Palace also has éclairs and other assorted pastries such as bear claws and cinnamon rolls. The doughnut options cover all of the bases, and there’s something for even the most picky eater, including glazed, cake and old-fashioned doughnuts. The business also has doughnut holes and jelly-filled doughnuts, too, with flavors like vanilla, chocolate, maple, lemon, raspberry and more.

For more information, find the business on Facebook.

—Sarah Pollard

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

(multiple locations)

Best Liquor/Wine Store: Fondren Cellars

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

(633 Duling Ave., 769-216-2323)

January 23 - February 5,2019 • jfp.ms

TRIP BURNS / FILE PHOTO

The veggie burger at Burgers & Blues is not obvious when you first check out the menu. You have to look really closely under “choose your own meat” to find it—a garden burger. But that means the chef can make any of their specialty burgers as a veggie burger with the garden patty. To make it a true vegetarian option, you’ll have to hold the bacon on five of the favorite burgers, but choosing the garden patty does not cost extra.

No word on if you can take the “Whammy challenge” with the veggie burger—eating three one-pound patties, a pound of fries and a vanilla shake in less than 30 minutes.

For more information, find Burgers & Blues on Facebook.

—Dawn Dugle

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finalists Babalu Tapas & Tacos (622 Duling Ave., Suite 106, 601366-5757, eatbabalu.com) / BRAVO! Italian Restaurant & Bar (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 244, 601-982-8111, bravobuzz.com) / Fine & Dandy (100 District Blvd. E., 601-202-5050, eatdandy. com) / Local 463 Urban Kitchen (1000 Highland Colony Pkwy., Suite 5002, 601-707-7684, local463.com)

Whether it’s a romantic night, first date or night with the crew, Fondren Cellars is a good place for wine and liquor. While the business has a wide selection of liquors from all over the world, including Hennessey and Pimm’s, it also has some from right here in Mississippi, including Cathead Distillery’s newest creation, Old Soul bourbon whiskey. The business also has a wide selection of wine, from ones for those who like their wine a little sweeter to those who crave that bitterness.

Every Monday, Fondren Cellars will take 10 percent off wine for medical professionals, medical students and anyone in the medical field, and every Wednesday, all wines are 10 percent off for Wine Wednesday. The business even has a “smart buy” rack for those who want wine but don’t have a lot of time. For those who are overwhelmed by the sheer volume of everything Fondren Cellars has, it also has knowledgeable staff members who can help with your selection.

For more information, visit Fondrencellars.com.

—Armani T. Fryer finalists Briarwood Wine and Spirits (4949 Old Canton Road, 601-956-5108, briarwoodwineandspirits.com) / Corkscrew Fine Wine and Spirits (4800 Interstate 55 N., Suite 32B, 601-981-1333) / Kats Wine & Spirits (921 E. Fortification St., 601-983-5287, katswine.com) / McDade’s Wine & Spirits (1220 E. Northside Drive, Suite 320, 601-366-5676, mcdadeswineandspirits.com) / Stanley’s Liquor & Wine (1049 S. State St., 601-353-0331)

Best Local Burger: Stamps Super Burgers

(1801 Dalton St., 601-352-4555)

Stamps Super Burgers secured the win for Best Local Burger this year, and probably not just because it has been in the community for more than four decades. For light eaters, the restaurant has 8-ounce burgers, cheeseburgers or turkey burgers, but for those who like to eat, Stamps has ones such as the super burger, also known as the Stamps Burger, with a 14-ounce patty.

If you like fries with your burger, Stamps has options: regular fries, with a choice of seasonings like lemon pepper, Cajun, or salt and pepper; and sweet potato fries with a choice of sugar and cinnamon, lemon pepper and more.

For more information, find the business on Facebook.

—Sarah Pollard finalists Babalu Tapas & Tacos (622 Duling Ave., Suite 106, 601-366-5757, eatbabalu.com) / Burgers & Blues (1060 E. County Line Road, Suite 22, Ridgeland, 601-899-0038, burgersblues.com) / Fine & Dandy (100 District Blvd. E., 601-202-5050, eatdandy.com) / Lou’s Full-Serv (904 E. Fortification St., Suite B, 601-487-6359) The 2019 Best of Jackson Party is Sunday 1/27/19 in downtown Jackson. Invitation only! If you are a finalist or winner and need to RSVP, please email party@jacksonfreepress. com by Friday at 3 p.m.! Visit bestofjackson.com to read about last year’s winners.

TRIP BURNS / FILE PHOTO

Best Veggie Burger: Burgers & Blues

COURTESY IRON HORSE GRILL

finalists BRAVO! Italian Restaurant & Bar (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 244, 601-9828111, bravobuzz.com) / Char Restaurant (4500 Interstate 55 N., 601-956-9562, jackson. charrestaurant.com) / The Manship Wood Fired Kitchen (1200 N. State St., Suite 100, 601-398-4562, themanshipjackson.com) / Saltine Restaurant (622 Duling Ave., Suite 201, 601-982-2899, saltinerestaurant.com) / Table 100 (100 Ridge Way, Flowood, 601-420-4202, tableonehundred.com)

finalists Monroe’s Donuts and Bakery (6310 Medgar Evers Blvd., 601-981-3208; 255 E. McDowell Road, 601-371-1185; 3820 Northbrook Drive, 601-982-1883; monroedonutsandbakery.com) / Pillow Donuts (1679 Old Fannin Road, Suite, D, Flowood, 601-9926040; 707 Beau Pre Drive, Ridgeland, 601-790-9697) / The Prickly Hippie (500 Highway 51, Suite F, Ridgeland, 601-910-6730, pricklyhippie.com) / V-Donuts (6745 Siwell Road, Suite 211, Byram, 601-487-6246, vdonuts.blogspot.com)

Are you a finalist? Didn’t get your party invitation? Email party@jacksonfreepress.com or call 601-362-6121 x21

Best Gumbo: Gumbo Girl

Best Thai Restaurant: Surin of Thailand

(3000 Old Canton Road, Suite 105, 601-981-3205)

Gumbo started on a whim for Marilyn Kithuka, the “Gumbo Girl,” and her business of the same name. Kithuka, 47, says she always appreciated the communal nature and power of food from the time she was a child.

“I grew up in north Jackson,” she says. “My mom would cook for us. I loved seafood as a kid but we could never afford it. I knew there was more kinds of seafood out there, so it held a special place to me.”

Her husband, James Kithuka, spotted the current location off Highway 18 in 2015 and encouraged her to begin the culinary journey and purchase the space with their savings.

“I knew gumbo would be the main draw, and my surf-and-turf recipe is the most popular item,” Marilyn says.

The restaurant has dishes such as an all-seafood gumbo with Gulf shrimp, blue crab, crawfish tails, okra and an option of lobster tail; and other dishes such as a vegetarian platter, which is sautéed cabbage with mushrooms in a savory sauce and a choice of a rice, sweet corn cobbette or seasoned potatoes.

For more information, find the business on Facebook.

—Mike McDonald

Surin of Thailand, in the heart of Fondren, boasts an extensive menu of Thai cuisine, like pad Thai (which the restaurant calls Thai noodle) and masaman with avocado. The restaurant also has entrees such as roasted duck with red curry and Thai sea bass. There is also a decent-sized sushi menu and full bar. The lunch specials come with a cup of tofu coconut soup and are served fairly quickly.

Surin has indoor and outdoor seating, as well as a private room for large parties.

For more information, find the business on Facebook.

—Dawn Dugle

IMANI KHAYYAM/FILE PHOTO

(5681 Highway 18 W., 601-790-0486, gumbogirl.com)

finalists Fusion Japanese & Thai Cuisine (1002 Treetops Boulevard, Flowood, 601-6647588; 1030 Highway 51, Madison, 601-790-7999, fusionjackson.com) / Thai Tasty (5050 Parkway Drive, Suite 7, 601-540-2534) / Thai Time Thai & Sushi Restaurant (1405 Old Square Road, 601-982-9991, thaitimems.com)

Best Italian Restaurant: Amerigo

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

finalists 4th Avenue Lounge (200 S. Lamar St., 769-572-4669, 4thavenuejxn.com) / Aplós (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 174, 601-714-8989, eataplos.com) / Kebab & Curry (160 Weisenberger Road, Madison, 769-300-2493, mykebabandcurry.com) / Mama Nature’s Juice Bar (655 Lake Harbour Drive, Suite 400, Ridgeland, 601-499-4936, mamanatures wellness.com) / MM Shapley’s Restaurant (868 Centre St., Ridgeland, 601-957-8000, mmshapleys.com)

COURTESY FINE AND DANDY

Ever since Fine & Dandy opened in early 2018, it has been making waves in the food scene, both for its social-media presence laced with sass and sarcasm (and lots of Betty White), and for the oddly named (but really good) dishes.

When you look at the menu at Fine & Dandy, you might see things like “Tater Tots We Didn’t Make,” or tater tots with crème fraiche “ranch,” smoked trout caviar, pickled onions, cucumber and dill; “Party Balls,” or smoked beef and bone-marrow meatballs with a barbecue sauce, onion jam, pickled peppers, crumbled cheddar and breadcrumbs; and the “Cap’n Crunk” adult shake with Cap’n Crunch cereal, butterscotch and Hennessey. My personal favorite is the “Grandma Chick,” which is pickle-brined chicken, bread-and-butter pickles and Duke’s mayo.

For more information, visit eatdandy.com or find the business on Facebook.

—Amber Helsel

finalists BRAVO! Italian Restaurant & Bar (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 244, 601-982-8111, bravobuzz.com) / Cerami’s Italian Restaurant (5417 Lakeland Drive, 601-919-2829, ceramisitalian.com) / Fratesi’s Authentic Italian Cuisine (910 Lake Harbour Drive, Ridgeland, 601-956-2929, fratesis.com) / Parlor Market (115 W. Capitol St., 601-360-0090, parlormarket.com) / Sal & Mookie’s New York Pizza & Ice Cream Joint (565 Taylor St., 601-3681919, salandmookies.com)

Best Mexican/Latin: El Sombrero

(640 Highway 80 E., Clinton, 601-925-8282; 12 Airstream Lane, Byram, 601-946-9299; 278 Dogwood Blvd., Flowood, 601-919-8921)

If you’re looking for good Mexican food in the Jackson metro area, El Sombrero, the Best Mexican/Latin winner, is a great place to go. To start, bean dip, queso or fresh guacamole are options. The main menu consists of all the favorites such as an assortment of burritos, fajitas, quesadillas and chimichangas, and you can mix and match meats such as chicken, shrimp and steak, and veggies throughout. They have great vegetarian options and a kids’ menu as well, and, of course, margaritas frozen or on the rocks with flavors like classic lime or strawberry, peach and mango. For dessert, try fried ice cream, flan, chimichanga cheesecake and more.

—Sarah Pollard finalists El Charro Authentic Mexican Restaurant (2086 Lakeland Drive, 601-362-4447) / Green Ghost Tacos (2820 N. State St., 601-487-6082, greenghosttacos.com) / Papitos Mexican Restaurant and Grill (multiple locations, papitosmexicanrestaurant.com) / Picante’s Mexican Grill (960 N. State St., 601-398-1344; 132 Port Gibson St., Raymond, 601-5269070) / Sombra Mexican Kitchen (140 Township Ave., Suite 100, Ridgeland, 601-7077950; 111 Market St., Flowood, 601-215-5445, sombramexicankitchen.com)

January 23 - February 5,2019 • jfp.ms

Best New Restaurant: Fine & Dandy

(100 District Blvd. E., 601-202-5050, eatdandy.com)

COURTESY AMERIGO

finalists Char Restaurant (4500 Interstate 55 N., 601-956-9562, jackson.charrestaurant.com) / Gumbo Spot (640 Grants Ferry Road, Flowood, 601-724-5118, gumbospotflowood.com) / Hal & Mal’s (200 Commerce St., 601-948-0888, halandmals.com) / Saltine Restaurant (622 Duling Ave., Suite 201, 601-982-2899, saltinerestaurant.com)

Best Italian Restaurant Amerigo has options for any time of day (lunch and dinner, and brunch on the weekends), and it has two locations in the metro area, so you’re probably always fairly near one. Amerigo has Italian classics, southern favorites and more, including shrimp scampi, oven-roasted lasagna and smoked chicken ravioli, Tuscan ribeye, and a perennial favorite, shrimp and grits.

The restaurants have even recently added a gluten-sensitive section to the menu, and created gluten-free versions of the “Pasta Imperial” and “Pasta Pomodoro,” as well as having gluten-free noodles to substitute for most pasta entrees. To top it all, Amerigo stocks an extensive wine list.

For more information, find the business on Facebook.

—Sarah Pollard

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Best Plate Lunch: Georgia Blue

Best Wine List/Selection (Restaurant): CAET Wine Bar

Georgia Blue has a menu with tons of options, but their plate-lunch menu is one of particular interest to Jacksonians. After all, they did vote the business Best Plate Lunch. Georgia Blue serves the blue plates Monday through Friday, and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Each day, they have two different meat options that you pick one of, and four side options you can pick two or three of. Some of the meat options include country-fried steak with gravy, fried catfish, and on Sundays, prime rib with a demi glaze. The sides are timehonored southern favorites like macaroni and cheese, turnip greens, fried okra, lima beans and mashed potatoes. As you can see there are plenty of options and so much to try.

For more information, find the business on Facebook.

—Sarah Pollard

Chef Derek Emerson and Jennifer Emerson’s newest restaurant and wine bar, CAET, is a place you want to go if you’re looking for a truly extensive wine selection. It offers more than 30 bythe-glass wine selections each night, made possible with the business’ wine-preservation system from Napa Technologies. For the wine list, they offer sparkling, rose, whites and reds ranging from Napa Valley, Calif., to Isonza, Italy.

CAET has plenty of snack options such as a charcuterie board, raw or broiled oysters, lamb sliders and more. The dinner menu features dishes like pan-seared scallops and pan-roasted duck.. For dessert, you can enjoy a lemon ice-box tart, and also dessert wines like sherry and port. CAET offers selections from countries all across the globe, the perfect place for a wine connoisseur and food lover alike to dive in.

For more information, find the business on Facebook.

—Sarah Pollard

(111 Colony Way, Suite 130, Madison, 601-898-3330; 223 Ridge Way, Flowood, 601-919-1900; georgiablue.net)

(3100 N. State St., Suite 102, 601-321-9169, caetwinebar.com)

Best Local Pizza: Pizza Shack

January 23 - February 5,2019 • jfp.ms

(925 E. Fortification St., 601-352-2001; 219 Garden Park Drive, Madison, 601-856-8600; The Bank by Pizza Shack, 200 W. Leake St., Clinton, 601-708-1708; pizzashackpizza.com)

34

Pizza Shack has been a staple in the Jackson community for a while now, and their legacy for best pizza continues.

For pizza, they have 20 options on the menu from classics to specialties, and if that isn’t enough, a build-your-own option, too. A few of the favorites include the Supreme with pepperoni, Canadian bacon, sausage, beef, bacon, bell pepper, mushrooms, onion and black olives; and the Thai chicken pizza with a peanut sauce, provolone and mozzarella cheeses, marinated chicken, green peppers, onion and carrots.

While it may seem weird to some to not get pizza at a place with the food in the name, Pizza Shack has other options like Buffalo wings and cheese sticks. The business also has salads such as the Asian chicken with iceberg lettuce, marinated chicken, roasted red peppers, green and red cabbage, carrots, sesame seeds and an Asian sesame seed ginger dressing; and sandwiches such as the meatball sub.

For more information, find the business on Facebook.

—Sarah Pollard finalists Aplós (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 174, 601-714-8989, eataplos.com) / Lost Pizza Co. (multiple locations, lostpizza.com) / The Manship Wood Fired Kitchen (1200 N. State St., Suite 100, 601-398-4562, themanshipjackson.com) / Sal & Mookie’s New York Pizza & Ice Cream Joint (565 Taylor St., 601-368-1919, salandmookies.com) / Soulshine Pizza Factory (1111 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite 1, Ridgeland, 601-856-8646; 5352 Highway 25, Suite 1100, Flowood, 601-919-2000)

TRIP BURNS/ FILE PHOTO

TRIP BURNS/ FILE PHOTO

finalists Bully’s Restaurant (3118 Livingston Road, 601-362-0484) / Logan Farms Honey Glazed Ham & Market Cafe (110 E. Northside Drive, Suite 250, 601-366-4267, loganfarms.com) / McDade’s Markets (1220 E. Northside Drive, 601-366-8486; 653 Duling Ave., 601-366-5273; mcdadesmarkets.com) / Primos Cafe (2323 Lakeland Drive, Flowood, 601-936-3398; 515 Lake Harbour Drive, Ridgeland, 601-898-3600; 201 Baptist Drive, Madison, 601-853-3350, primoscafe.com) / The Trace Grill (574 Highway 51, Suite F, Ridgeland, 601-853-1014, thetracegrill.com)

finalists BRAVO! Italian Restaurant & Bar (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 244, 601-982-8111, bravobuzz.com) / Char Restaurant (4500 Interstate 55 N., 601-956-9562, jackson.char restaurant.com) / Koestler Prime (1000 Highland Colony Pkwy., Suite 6001, 601-957-3753, koestlerprime.com) / The Manship Wood Fired Kitchen (1200 N. State St., Suite 100, 601398-4562, themanshipjackson.com)

Best Steak: Tico’s Steak House (1536 E. County Line Road, Ridgeland, 601-956-1030, ticossteakhouse.com)

Thirty years of business has given Tico’s Steak House room to keep perfecting what the restaurant does best: steak. The results have shown, as voters made Tico’s Best Steak in this year’s contest. The restaurant offers a variety of steak options like fillets, ribeye, New York strip and porterhouse, and also quintessential pairings like steak and lobster.

For those who want something a little different, Tico’s also serves seafood dishes such as crab claws, shrimp and fresh fish. Of course, there are other options like salad, lamb chops and chicken dishes, and an abundance of side options, too. To top it off, Tico’s has a substantial wine list with red and whites from regions around the world.

For more information, visit ticos steakhouse.com.

—Sarah Pollard finalists Char Restaurant (4500 Interstate 55 N., 601-956-9562, jackson.charrestaurant.com) / Ely’s Restaurant & Bar (115 W. Jackson St., Suite 2E, Ridgeland, 601-605-6359, elysrestaurant .com) / Koestler Prime (1000 Highland Colony Pkwy., Suite 6001, 601-957-3753, koestlerprime. com) / MM Shapley’s Restaurant (868 Centre St., Ridgeland, 601-957-8000, mmshapleys. com) / Walker’s Drive In (3016 N. State St., 601-982-2633, walkersdrivein.com)

Best Sandwich Place: Beagle Bagel (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 145, 769-2511892; 100 Mannsdale Park Drive, Madison, 601-856-4377; thebeaglebagelcafe.com)

A sandwich is a pretty basic idea: It’s some type of substantial filling (meat, veggies, etc.) between two slices of bread. However, just because it’s simple, doesn’t mean it can’t taste good. A local favorite for sandwiches, specifically bagel sandwiches, is this year’s winner for Best Sandwich Place, Beagle Bagel.

The story goes that Horace P. Belvedere’s New York City native beagle, which would eat, you guessed it: bagels.

Once Belvedere ran out, his mother began making them herself, and eventually the family opened the first iteration of Beagle Bagel. The restaurant has something for every sandwich lover, from a pizza bagel with marina and cheese melted on a bagel, to a chicken salad Panini with provolone cheese, tomato and pesto mayo. Beagle Bagel is, of course, most renowned for its bagel menu, which includes ones such as sesame, garlic, sun-dried tomato and chocolate chip.

Cream-cheese flavors include garlic and herb, chive, strawberry and cinnamon swirl.

For more information, visit thebeaglebagelcafe.com.

—Amber Helsel finalists Basil’s (2906 N. State St., Suite 104, 601-982-2100; 120 N. Congress St., Suite L1, 601-944-9888) / Broad Street Baking Company (4465 Interstate 55 N., Suite 101, 601-362-2900, broadstbakery.com) / Room Service (4659 McWillie Drive, 601362-4617; 1010 Highland Colony Pkwy., Suite 104, 601-7073600) / Steve’s (125 S. Congress St., 601-969-1119; 200 S. Lamar St., 601-714-5683; stevesdowntown.com)

Thank you for your support!

We look forward to serving you in 2019

Thanks for making us a Finalist:

MAYWOOD MART 1220 E. Northside Dr. • 601-366-8486

Best Oysters Best Seafood

WOODLAND HILLS Shopping Center Fondren • 601-366-5273

Come enjoy fantastic New

Best Beer Selection at a Store Best Lunch Counter or Lunch Buffet Best Meal Under $10 Best Plate Lunch

Orleans cuisine, a full bar and live entertainment at home of the Original Charbroiled Oyster!

1005 E. County Line Road, Jackson, MS (601) 957-1515

Mon. – Sat. 11 am - 10 pm | Sun. 11 am - 8 pm

MAYWOOD MART 1220 E. Northside Dr. • 601-366-5676 www.mcdadeswineandspirits.com Please Drink Responsibly

Best Liquor/Wine Store

January 23 - February 5, 2019 • jfp.ms

www.dragosjackson.com

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Best Animal Shelter: Community Animal Rescue & Adoption

Best Barbershop: Fondren Barber Shop

One of the rites of passage in life is getting a pet. When you’re searching for the perfect dog or cat (but beware: The animal really does choose you), a local shelter is one of the best ways to go. And this year’s winner for Best Animal Shelter, Community Animal Rescue & Adoption, also known as CARA, has every type of breed and color that you can imagine. For dog owners who need a place for their pet to roam free, CARA also has Bree’s Bark Park, and sometimes you can even catch the shelter’s dogs running and playing in the space.

Sadly, after an outbreak of calicivirus in the shelter’s cat population in late 2018, CARA has closed its cattery but has plans to open a new one in the future.

For more information, visit carams.org.

—Amber Helsel

When you’re looking for a good haircut from a local business, try Fondren Barber Shop, this year’s winner for Best Barber Shop. Eddie and Justin Outlaw opened the business in 2013 after seeing a need for a place where men could treat themselves and where they would feel comfortable talking about their looks. Fondren Barber Shop, which shares a space with the Outlaws’ William Wallace Salon, can do men’s haircuts, straight-razor neck shaves, beard trims, hot-towel shaves and more.

For more information, find Fondren Barber Shop on Facebook.

—Sarah Pollard

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

finalists Bob Boyte Honda (2188 Highway 18, Brandon, 601591-5000, bobboytehonda.com) / Herrin-Gear Automotive Group (multiple locations, herringear.com) / Mercedes-Benz of Jackson (455 Steed Road, Ridgeland, 601-956-4211, mercedesofjackson.com) / Paul Moak Automotive (Honda, 802 Harding St., 855-943-4433; Subaru/Volvo, 740 Larson St., 888-859-4918, paulmoak.com) / Watson Quality Ford (6130 Interstate 55 N., 601-977-4557, watsonquality.com)

finalists Albriton’s (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 184, 601-982-4020, albritons.com) / Beckham Jewelry (120 District Blvd., Suite D110, 601-665-4642, beckhamjewelry.com) / Jackson Jewelers (253 Ridge Way, Flowood, 601-992-1700, jacksonjewelersinc.com) / Juniker Jewelry Co. (1485 Highland Colony Pkwy., Madison, 601366-3754, junikerjewelry.com) / Newton’s Fine Jewelry (5417 Highway 25, Suite N, Flowood, 601-919-8747, newtonsjewelry.com)

While The Manship’s regular menu (especially its brunch and happy-hour specials) is something to talk about, its catering is also something of note. The Manship’s catering services include seated meals, buffets and boxed lunches. You can choose from one of their specialty menus or plan your own menu with Executive Chef Alex Eaton.

The menu has a lot of options, including a breakfast menu with dishes such as a vegetable quiche or French toast bread pudding, and regular menu with selections like a burger bar or a fajita bar. The restaurant can even do a catered buffet with selections like grilled or fried catfish, fried chicken, lasagna and smoked brisket with barbecue sauce, and sides like butter beans, braised greens and au gratin potatoes. And for those who need a place to host their party or other event, The Manship has four available spaces, including the Rickhouse near the restaurant.

For more information, find the business on Facebook.

—Sarah Pollard finalists 4Top Catering (4500 Interstate 55 N., 601-942-4999, 4topcatering.com) / Godfrey Morgan (Godfrey’s Catering, 601-278-3172, godfreyscatering.com) / Julie Levanway (Fresh From the Flame, 601506-7454) / Mangia Bene Catering (4465 Interstate 55 N., Suite 101, 601-362-2900, mangiabene-catering.com) / Wendy Putt/Fresh Cut Catering & Floral (108 Cypress Cove, 601-939-4518, freshcutcateringandfloral.com)

COURTESY THE MANSHIP

Ridgeland-based Patty Peck Honda, this year’s winner for Best Car Dealer (New Or Used), has been part of the Jackson community for more than 25 years, helping people find their next vehicle. Patty Peck offers a wide range of Hondas, from a Honda Fit to a Honda Accord. The business’ website even has a listing of how many new or used cars the dealership currently has.

For those who need maintenance, Patty Peck has a full-service center for needs such as muffler and exhaust repairs, tire balancing, transmission flushing and more. The dealership understands that car-buying can be overwhelming, so its 50-plus staff members can assist with any questions or concerns people may have when buying, selling or servicing a car.

For more info visit their website pattypeck honda.com.

—Sarah Pollard

Did you know that the U.S.’s third oldest jeweler is right here in Jackson? In fact, it’s this year’s winner for Best Jeweler, Carter Jewelers.

Over its 160 years in business, the store has established itself as one of the more prolific jewelry businesses in the metro area.

Carter Jewelers has pieces such as engagement and wedding rings, watches and necklaces.

If you want to buy a piece of jewelry for someone but have no idea where to start, never fear. Carter Jewelers also has resources for gemstone and diamond education. Customers can also put in requests for specific diamonds.

—Amber Helsel

(1200 N. State St., Suite 100, 601-3984562, themanshipjackson.com)

COURTESY CARTER JEWELERS

COURTESY PATTY PECK HONDA

January 23 - February 5,2019 • jfp.ms

Best Caterer: The Manship Wood Fired Kitchen

(711 High St., 601-352-3549, carterdiamonds.com)

(555 Sunnybrook Road, Ridgeland, 601957-3400, pattypeckhonda.com)

TRIP BURNS / FILE PHOTO

finalists The Barbershop at Great Scott (4400 Old Canton Road, Suite 100; 601-984-3500; greatscott.net/the-barber-shop) / Custom Cuts & Styles (2445 Terry Road; 601-321-9292) / Maurice’s Barber Shop (1220 E. Northside Drive, Suite 360, 601-362-2343; 398 Highway 51, Suite 60, Ridgeland, 601-856-2856) / Noble Barber (1065 Highland Colony Pkwy., Suite F, Ridgeland; 601-856-6665; noblebarber.com) / Yelverton Barber Salon (901 Highway 51, Madison, 601-856-0015)

Best Local Jeweler/Jewelry Store: Carter Jewelers

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

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COURTESY CARA

finalists Animal Rescue Fund of Mississippi (395 W. Mayes St., 769-216-3414) / Cheshire Abbey (cheshireabbey.com) / Mississippi Animal Rescue League (601-969-1631, msarl.org) / Webster Animal Shelter (525 Post Oak Road, Madison, 601-605-4729)

(2939 Old Canton Road; 601-826-0707)

Thank you from Jender Foods for the Best of Jackson 2019 nominations for our family of restaurants!

CAET

3100 North State Street, Suite 102, Jackson | 601.321.9169

Best Fine Dining Best Restaurant Best Steak Best Place for a First Date

Best Happy Hour Best Place for Cocktails Best Local French Fries Best Wine List/Selection

Local 463

Parlor Market

1000 Highland Colony Pkwy, Ridgeland | 601.707.7684

115 W Capitol St, Jackson | 601.360.0090

Best Veggie Burger

Best Italian Restaurant

January 23 - February 5, 2019 • jfp.ms

Walker’s Drive-In

3016 North State Street, Jackson | 601.982.2633

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Best Flower Shop: Greenbrook Flowers

Best Fitness Center/Gym: Baptist Healthplex

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

Best Local Women’s Clothing Store: Material Girls

Best Day Spa: Aqua the Day Spa

Best Local Bank or Credit Union: BankPlus

The staff at Aqua the Day Spa believes that happiness is health, and that is why the business dedicates itself to bringing that to the Jackson community.

Aqua offers skin care and hydra facials such as the “Bearbury Brightening Facial,” which helps enhance and brighten a person’s skin tone while also making fine lines and wrinkles softer and smoother. You can also enjoy body treatments like the coffee-almond hydration wrap, a deep-cleansing body scrub that helps gently buff away dry skin; massage therapy, hand and foot treatments, hair removal and more.

For more information, visit aquathe dayspa.com —Sarah Pollard

The older you get, the more important a bank becomes, whether you’re trying to build up a savings or you need a loan. It’s important to find ne that fits your needs, and for many Jacksonians, that is multiyear winner BankPlus. The business first opened as Citizens Bank & Trust Company in 1909 Belzoni, Miss.

The name changed to BankPlus in September 1994 when Southeast Mississippi Bank in Quitman and CB&T merged and began extending services to more parts of the state. Currently, BankPlus has 57 offices in 33 Mississippi cities. Its services include personal checking and savings accounts, personal, auto and real estate loans, home equity credit lines, treasury services, mobile banking and more.

—Amber Helsel

finalists Body Anew Medical Spa (1040 Gluckstadt Road, Suite B, 601-605-0452, bodyanewmedicalspa.com) / Drench Day Spa and Lash Lounge (118 W. Jackson St., Suite 2B, Ridgeland, 601-707-5656, drenchdayspa. com) / Soul Spa (Westin Jackson, 407 S. Congress St., 769-235-8401, soulspajackson.com) / The Skin District (2629 Courthouse Circle, Suite B, Flowood, 601-9817546, theskindistrict.com)

(multiple locations, bankplus.net)

finalists BancorpSouth (multiple locations, bancorpsouth. com) / Hope Credit Union (multiple locations, hopecu. org) / Mississippi Federal Credit Union (2500 N. State St.; 350 W. Woodrow Wilson Drive; 500 Clinton Center Drive, Clinton; 601-351-9200, msfcu.us) / Renasant Bank (multiple locations, renasantbank.com) / Trustmark (multiple locations, trustmark.com)

COURTESY BANKPLUS

finalists Dsquared (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 151; 256 Dogwood Blvd., Flowood; 601-992-9885, shopd2clothing.com) / Frolic Boutique (140 Township Ave., Suite 110, Ridgeland, 601-8569600) / Libby Story (1000 Highland Colony Pkwy., Suite 5003, Ridgeland, 601-717-3300, libbystory.com) / Pink Possum Boutique and Gifts (105 Lexington Drive, Gluckstadt, 601-898-1844, pinkpossumboutique.com)

COURTESY AQUA THE DAY SPA

Jackson’s fashionistas have spoken and voted Material Girls Best Local Women’s Clothing Store for another year.

The store offers a diverse selection of hand-selected women’s clothing, shoes, jewelry, and accessories for all ages and personal styles.

Gabrielle Woodward, manager of the Market Street location, believes that their diversity of clothes and brands sets them apart from many other places.

“We have a little bit of everything for everyone,” Woodward says.

If you are searching for that perfect item for a special friend, family member or significant other, Material Girl has two locations in the Jackson area, Flowood’s Market Street and the Renaissance at Colony Park in Ridgeland.

You can also order items online with an option for convenient in-store pick up at any location. For more information, visit shopmaterialgirls.com.

—Tunga Otis

COURTESY MATERIAL GRILS

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finalists The Club at St. Dominic’s (970 Lakeland Drive, 601-200-4925, stdom.com) / Crossfit JXN (1434 Old Square Road, 601-861-4244, crossfitjxn.com) / Focus Fit (5709 Highway 80, Pearl, 601-591-7487, focusfitms.com) / Quest Fitness Club (1693 Lakeover Road, 601-982-7360; 5225 Highway 18 W., Suite D, 601-983-3337, questfitnessofjackson.com) / Starke Fitness (109 Dees Drive, Madison, 601-8569111, starkefitness.net)

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

(734 McKenzie Lane, Flowood, 601-992-4533; 1000 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite 7005, 601-605-1605; shopmaterialgirls.com)

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If you’re thinking more these days about your fitness regimen—or lack thereof—you’re not alone. Each new year, people commit to join their local gym and work out more.

One great option is this year’s winner for Best Fitness Center/Gym, Baptist Healthplex.

It offers personal and small group training options to its members, along with group classes and more. Group classes include body sculpting, aquatics, senior fitness, Pilates, yoga and dance fitness.

Not interested in classes? The indoor track and heated pool might help you get through the winter months.

“We want everyone to come in and feel comfortable. Set your goals and we will help you get to that point, no matter where you start off at,” says Baptist Healthplex Director Tony James.

—Tunga Otis

COURTESY BAPTIST HEALTHPLEX

finalists A Daisy A Day (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 194, 601-982-4438, adaisyadayjackson.com) / Green Oak Florist & Garden Center (5009 Old Canton Road; 1067 Highland Colony Pkwy., Suite E, Ridgeland; 601-956-5017, greenoakflorist.com) / Mostly Martha’s Florist and Gifts (353 Highway 51, Ridgeland, 601-956-1474, mostlymarthasflorist.com) / The Prickly Hippie (500 Highway 51, Suite F, Ridgeland, 601-910-6730, pricklyhippie. com) / Whitley’s Flowers (740 Lakeland Drive, 601-362-8844, whitleysflowers.com)

COURTESY GREENBROOK FLOWERS

This year, Greenbrook Flowers extends its Best Flower Shop winning streak to 13 years. This fifth-generation business has been part of the Jackson landscape since 1917. Its tag line, “Your Good Neighbor Florist,” stems from the shop’s establishment of Good Neighbor Day in 1994, now a nationally celebrated event.

With Valentine’s Day approaching, the business has much to offer, such as roses and other floral options; however, Greenbrook also has gift options such as chocolate-covered strawberries, candles and teddy bears.

Whether phoning in a floral arrangement or ordering online, Greenbrook offers flowers and plants for all occasions, gourmet baskets and corporate gifts. The business accepts phone orders 24 hours a day, and has seven-day-a-week delivery service.

—Jan M. Richardson

(717 Manship St., 601-968-1766, mbhs.org; 102 Clinton Parkway, Clinton, 601925-7900, healthplexclinton.com; Healthplex Performance Center, 501 Baptist Drive, Madison, 601-856-7757, healthplexperformance.com)

Are you a finalist? Didn’t get your party invitation? Email party@jacksonfreepress.com or call 601-362-6121 x21.

Best Place to Book a Party or Shower: Fairview Inn

Best Place for Unique Gifts: O! How Cute Boutique & Gifts

(734 Fairview St., 601-948-3429, fairviewinn.com)

finalists 201Capitol (201 W. Capitol St., 601-278-3944, 201capitol.com) / Mississippi Children’s Museum (2145 Museum Blvd., 601-981-5469, mschildrensmuseum.org) / The SHIFT Shop (587 Highway 51, Suite G, Ridgeland, 601-790-7906) / The South Warehouse (627 E. Silas Brown St., 601-939-4518)

(304 E. Government St., Suite 2, Brandon; 158 Promenade Blvd., Flowood; 200 Riverwind E., Suite 106, Pearl; 100 Depot Drive, Madison, 844-742-9120, shopohc.com)

Choosing a gift for a holiday or birthday can be daunting. That’s why stores like this year’s winner for Best Place for Unique Gifts, O! How Cute Boutique & Gifts, is so vital.

The store, which has locations in Brandon, Madison, Flowood and Pearl, has a variety of items to choose from, whether you’re looking for something cute to wear or something to add to home décor or something to eat. The shops carry brands such as Jackson-based Flirt Jewelry, Captain Rodney’s sauces and jellies, Illume candles and more. For extra picky loved ones, O! How Cute also has gift cards.

For more information, visit shopohc.com.

—Amber Helsel

AMBER HELSEL

COURTESY FAIRVIEW INN

If you need to book a party or shower somewhere, why not go with a circa1900s colonial mansion? This year’s winner for Best Place to Book a Party or Shower, the Fairview Inn opened in 1908 as a home for lumber magnate Cyrus C. Warren. In May 2000, construction began on a new addition to the building, and on Feb. 5, 2001, the Fairview held a ribbon-cutting for the addition—18 guest rooms and 25,000 square feet of heated and cooled space. Peter and Tamar Sharp purchased the building in 2006 and opened a restaurant in the venue that October.

The venue has different rooms and spaces to rent for meetings, social events, rehearsal dinners, weddings and receptions. If you don’t want to book something but still need a place to go with friends, Fairview is known for its Library Lounge, a charming local spot for drinks, eats and a local trivia night, and the restaurant, 1908 Provisions.

For more information, visit fairviewinn.com.

—Amber Helsel

finalists Apple Annie’s Gift Shop (1896 Main St., Suite D, Madison, 601-853-8911; 152 Grants Ferry Road, Brandon, 601-992-9925, shopappleannies.com) / Offbeat (151 Wesley Ave., 601-376-9404, offbeatjxn.com) / The Prickly Hippie (500 Highway 51, Suite F, Ridgeland, 601-910-6730, pricklyhippie.com) / Repeat Street (242 Highway 51, Ridgeland, 601-605-9123, repeatstreet.net)

Best Nail Salon: The Nail Lounge

Best Thrift/Consignment Store: Repeat Street

(4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 1038, 601-398-4451, thenailloungehv.com) COURTESY THE NAIL LOUNGE

COURTESY REPEAT STREET

finalists Leap Frog Children’s Consignment & More (104 Village Blvd., Madison, 601-898-0727, leapfrogmadison.com) / N.U.T.S. (114 Millsaps Ave., 601-3557458, followme2nuts.com) / Orange Peel (422 Mitchell Ave., 601-364-9977, orange peelfondren.com) / Private Collection Consignment (1018 Village Blvd., Madison, 601-607-6004)

It’s easy to get caught up in a hectic life, but every once and a while, it’s important to squeeze in some quality “me” time and get pampered.

The Nail Lounge, located in Highland Village, offers a variety of nail-care services for women, men and children.

In addition to many manicure and pedicure options, the salon offers waxing, eyelashes, eyebrow tinting and nail enhancements such as dip nails, and acrylic and gel nails. They also offer alcoholic beverages for the adult clients who want Sonny Nguyen (left) and Phuoc “Bronco” Hang (right) to relax while getting pampered.

If you can’t decide when you want to stop by, walk-ins are always welcome.

—Tunga Otis

finalists Cuticles Nail Studio (2947 Old Canton Road, 601-366-6999, cuticlesnailstudio.com) / Fondren Nails (2906 N. State St., Suite B1, 601-316-9264) / Holly Nails (1127 Old Fannin Road, Brandon, 601-992-4707) / Rouge Nails Lash Wax (5352 Lakeland Drive, Flowood, 769-572-4747) / ZaZa Nails and Spa (1053 Highway 49 S., Richland, 769-447-5959) To see past winners, visit bestofjackson.com.

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

Catch the thrifting bug, and you may wonder why you ever paid full price in the first place. If you’re eager to explore 17,000 square feet of shopping space and love the thrill of the hunt, Repeat Street may be the place for you.

For the eighth straight year, Jacksonians have voted Repeat Street as Best Thrift/Consignment Shop.

The business is filled with artfully displayed shoes, apparel and accessories for both women and men. If your closet isn’t the only place that deserves to be spruced up, check out all knick-knacks and decor items for your dorm, apartment or home. The store also has a constantly changing inventory of furniture, artwork, jewelry and an outdoor area that has a variety of items for your garden or patio.

For more information, find the business on Facebook.

—Tunga Otis

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MILLSAPS COLLEGE:

JACKSON’S PUBLIC SQUARE FORUMS, PERFORMANCES, TALKS AND MORE. WORLD CLASS. HERE AT HOME.

MILLSAPS.EDU

Millsaps College is dedicated to academic excellence, open inquiry and free expression, the exploration of faith to inform vocation, and the innovative shaping of the social, economic, and

January 23 - February 5, 2019 • jfp.ms

cultural progress of our region.

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YMCA 800 E. River Place, Jackson

VOLUNTEER at CONTACT the Crisis Line Would you be willing to help someone who is…

Lonely Depressed Anxious Angry Overwhelmed Stressed Troubled Hopeless Abused Thinking of Suicide

LEARN HOW TO PROTECT OUR OCEANS Become a Certified Volunteer Telephone Crisis Counselor Training Begins Saturday, January 26, 2019

Classes will meet from 8 AM – 5 PM and continue for a total of 4 Saturdays (January 26th, February 2nd, 9th, and 23rd)

PILOT A FULL-SIZE “SUBMERSIBLE”

Attendance at ALL classes is required for certification

At Broadmeadow UMC 4419 Broadmeadow Drive, Jackson, MS For more information call CONTACT the Crisis Line 601-713-4099 (business office) or register online at www.contactthecrisisline.org Are you troubled, stressed?

Do you need someone to listen?

Call CONTACT the Crisis Line to sort things out.

24/7 Crisis Line number: 601-713-HELP (4357)

JAN. 26 � MAY 12 MISSISSIPPI MUSEUM OF NATURAL SCIENCE

THANKS , J-TOWN CUPSESPRESSOCAFE.COM

January 23 - February 5, 2019 • jfp.ms

®

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Best Tattoo/Piercing Parlor: Electric Dagger Tattoo

Best Place to Get Your Car Fixed: Capitol Body Shop

Electric Dagger Tattoo owner and artist Jason Thomas and his team at Electric Dagger have been voted Best Tattoo/Piercing Parlor by Jacksonians for the fifth straight year.

Whether you are looking for a more traditional piece to cover a small section of skin or if you want to turn your body into a blank canvas, Electric Dagger is one of those places with something for everyone.

If you can’t find an inspiration for your tattoo, no worries, stop by the shop and check out the designs on display and talk to Thomas, Mike “Iron Mike” Richardson or Mallory Kay Palmertree about any ideas or questions you have.

Electric Dagger welcomes walk-ins, but recommends appointments. For more information, find the business on Facebook.

—Tunga Otis

Sadly, the Jackson metro area does not have many reliable forms of public transportation, so many of us depend on our cars to get us from point A to point B. To do that, your car has to be in tip-top shape. No matter where you are in the area, this year’s winner for Best Place to Get Your Car Fixed, Capitol Body Shop, can help you do that.

Chad White began the business in 1963. Five short years later, he had created the largest collision repair organization in Mississippi. The store now has four locations— Bryam, Flowood, Ridgeland and Gluckstadt. Its website says it is certified by more auto manufacturers than any other body shop in the state. Capitol Body is a fullservice business that can do complete mechanical services, and auto body repair and painting. For those whose car may be a little unsightly, the business also does detailing.

It also has a 24/7 wrecker service, Capitol Towing.

For more information, visit capitolbodyshop.com.

—Amber Helsel

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

(multiple locations, capitolbodyshop.com)

finalists Barnett’s Body Shop (multiple locations, barnettsbodyshop.com) / Car Care Clinic (multiple locations, carcareclinicjetlube.com) / Clinton Body Shop, Inc. (1115 Monroe St., Clinton, 601-924-2159; 710 Highway 49 S., Richland, 601-932-0459, clintonbodyshop. com) / Freeman’s Auto Repair (847 S. State St., 601-948-3358) / Greenes Tire & Auto (715 Ridgewood Road, Ridgeland, 601-957-0201; 1405 E. Northside Drive, Clinton, 601-9243800, greenestire.com)

Best Yoga Studio: Soul Synergy Center

Best Place to Work: University of Mississippi Medical Center

(5490 Castlewoods Court, Suite D, Flowood, 601992-7721, soulsynergycenter.com)

When owners Jill Clark and her husband, Daniel Clark, moved to Mississippi from North Carolina she brought along her passion for holistic health and natural healing. In April 2018, she opened Soul Synergy Center, a 4,000-squarefoot facility in Flowood. More than a yoga studio, it’s a place of community. Clark describes it as a place that nurtures mind, body and spirit.

Soul Synergy offers yoga classes for all levels of practice. Chair yoga and donation yoga classes are offered to make the practice accessible and inclusive to everyone. In addition to those classes, the business also has tai chi classes, reiki, massage and the state’s first salt cave. There are also a variety of seminars, workshops and event for all to attend.

For more information, find the business on Facebook.

DELRECO HARRIS

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finalists C Spire (1018 Highland Colony Pkwy., Ridgeland, cspire.com) / Cole Facial Clinic & Skin Care (204 E. Layfair Drive, Flowood, 601-896-0112, colefacialclinic.com) / Hinds Community College (multiple locations, hindscc.edu) / Mississippi Children’s Museum (2145 Museum Blvd., 601-981-5469, mschildrensmuseum.org) / Sage Salon & Color Bar (120 District Blvd. E., Suite D104, 601-487-0368, sagecolorbar.com) / St. Dominic Hospital (969 Lakeland Drive, 601-200-2000, stdom.com)

TRIP BURNS / FILE PHOTO

January 23 - February 5,2019 • jfp.ms

(2500 N. State St., 601-984-1000, umc.edu)

With its main campus centrally located in the heart of Jackson, the University of Mississippi Medical Center is the only research hospital in the state of Mississippi. Although hospitals are in general known for meeting the needs of their patients, UMMC, which has more than 10,000 employees among its campuses and centers, has realized that the best way to ensure that happens daily is to have a healthy and happy workforce. Employment perks include tuition benefits for full-time employees and their children at the medical center or the University of Mississippi, discounted access to fitness and wellness centers, and medical and retirement benefits. With all that in mind, it’s no wonder why people made it Best Place to Work for the fourth year in a row.

—Torsheta Jackson

COURTESY CAPITOL BODY SHOP

IMANI KHAYYAM/ FILE PHOTO

finalists Black Lotus Tattoo Shop (420 N. Bierdeman St., Pearl, 601-933-1120) / Hard Rocs Tattoo (1149 Old Fannin Road, Brandon, 769-251-5363) / House of Pain Tattoo (30 Holiday Rambler Lane, Byram, 601-321-9040) / Inkk Junkies Tattoos (182 Raymond Road, 601-503-6030) / Squench’s Tattoos (3780 Interstate 55 S. Eastside Frontage Road, 601-372-2800, squenchstattoos.com)

—Tunga Otis finalists Jenifer Simcox (Namaste at the Bar, namastejxn.com) / M Theory Yoga (118 W. Jackson St., Ridgeland, 601-790-7402, mtheoryyoga.com) / StudiOm Yoga (665 Duling Ave., 601-209-6325, studiomyogaofms.com) / Tara Yoga (601-720-2337, tara-yoga.net) The 2019 Best of Jackson Party is Sunday 1/27/19 in downtown Jackson. Invitation only! If you are a finalist or winner and need to RSVP, please email party@jacksonfreepress.com by Friday at 3 p.m.!

Visit bestofjackson.com to read about last year’s winners.

Are you a finalist? Didn’t get your party invitation? Email party@jacksonfreepress.com or call 601-362-6121 x21.

Best Place to Buy Antiques: The Flea Market, Mississippi’s Trade Place

Best Local Men’s Clothing Store: Buffalo Peak Outfitters (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 115, 601-366-2557, buffalopeak.net)

finalists Antique Aly (294 Commerce Park Drive, Ridgeland, 769-300-0262) / Antique Mall of the South (367 Highway 51, Ridgeland, 601-853-4000) / Interiors Market (659 Duling Ave., 601-981-6020) / Repeat Street (242 Highway 51, Ridgeland, 601-605-9123, repeatstreet.net)

Best Veterinarian or Vet Clinic: Briarwood Animal Hospital

Best Place to Get Married: Bridlewood of Madison

(3024 Highway 22, Madison, 601-7074024, thebarnatbridlewood.com)

(104 Village Blvd., Madison, 601-8980727, leapfrogmadison.com)

finalists Helen’s Young Ages (4750 Interstate 55 N., 601362-0317, helensyoungages.com) / Mississippi Children’s Museum (2145 Museum Blvd., 601-981-5469, mschildrensmuseum.org) / Row 10 (1107 Highland Colony Pkwy., Suite 105, Ridgeland, 601-707-5846, row10baby. com) / Sweet Dreams Children’s Boutique (1888 Main St., Suite A, Madison, 601-856-2080)

Wedding planning is an enormous task, and securing a location is an important part. Topping this year’s list is a relatively new location with country charm. Mimicking the successful Hattiesburg location, the Bridlewood in Madison is a great place for nuptials no matter the season or weather.

The ranch-style venue, which opened in 2017, offers two onproperty settings. The “barn” has vaulted ceilings featuring wood beams and crystal chandeliers, concrete floors and brick walls. Outside, brides and grooms can exchange vows under a wooden arch beneath a massive oak tree.

For more information, find the venue on Facebook.

—Torsheta Jackson finalists The Cedars (4145 Old Canton Road, 601-3665552, fondren.org) / Cotton Market (2644 S. Pearson Road, Richland, 601-906-5499, cottonmarketvenue. com) / Fairview Inn (734 Fairview St., 601-948-3429, fairviewinn.com) / McClain (874 Holly Bush Road, Brandon, 601-829-1101, mcclain.ms) / The South Warehouse (627 E. Silas Brown St., 601-939-4518)

COURTESY BRIDLEWOOD OF MADISON

Looking for the perfect gift for a special occasion or just needing to refresh your fastgrowing little one’s wardrobe? Leap Frog is a one-stop shop for kids’ essentials.

The consignment and boutique shop has been selling clothing for newborns to tweens for 17 years. Leap Frog prides itself in offering high-end clothing at affordable prices. And it isn’t just smocked dresses, big bows and jon jons; this store carries a variety of birthday gifts, toys, children’s furniture and more.

Gift-wrapping and monogramming are also available.

For more information, find the business on Facebook or visit leapfrogmadison.com.

—Tunga Otis

COURTESY LEAP FROG

COURTESY BRIARWOOD ANIMAL HOSPITAL

finalists All Creatures Animal Care Center (262 New Mannsdale Road, Madison, 601-856-5333, allcreaturesanimalcarecenter. com) / Animal Medical Center of Jackson (995 S. Frontage Road, 601-354-3622, animalmedicalcenterofjackson.com) / Hometown Veterinary Hospital (2001 Creek Cove, Brandon, 601-825-1697, hometownvethospital.com) / Mannsdale Animal Clinic (488 Mannsdale Road, Madison, 601-499-5200, themac. vet) / North State Animal Hospital (5208 N. State St., 601-9828261, northstateanimalhospital.com)

finalists Great Scott (4400 Old Canton Road, Suite 101, 601-984-3500, greatscott.net) / Kinkade’s Fine Clothing (120 W. Jackson St., Ridgeland, 601-898-0513, kinkadesfc.com) / Red Square Clothing Company (1000 Highland Colony Pkwy., Suite 9004, Ridgeland, 601-853-8960; 4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 103A, 601-398-3403, redsquareclothingco. com) / The Rogue (4450 Interstate 55 N., 601-362-6383, therogue.com)

Best Place to Buy Kids Clothing/ Toys: Leap Frog Children’s Consignment & More

(1471 Canton Mart Road, 601-9565030, briarwoodhospital.com)

We love our pets, so of course we want to keep them as healthy as possible. To do that, we need a vet that can perform a lot of different services, from annual exams to spaying and neutering to boarding. This year’s winner for Best Vet, Briarwood Animal Hospital, has all that and more.

Dr. Hugh Ward opened the facility in 1960. It was an original preceptor (or teacher) for Mississippi State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine. Briarwood can perform surgical services, dental procedures, blood work, ultrasounds and more. Its sister business is Millcreek Animal Clinic in Brandon.

For more information, visit briarwoodhospital.com.

—Amber Helsel

COURTESY BUFFALO PEAK OUTFITTERS

COURTESY FLEA MARKET

Most of the side of Flowood Drive near Old Brandon Road consists of industrial businesses and warehouses.

Hidden among them is this year’s winner for Best Place for Antiques, The Flea Market, Mississippi’s Trade Place in Flowood. Blink and you may miss it, but once you’re in the parking lot, you definitely won’t. It’s probably one of the best places to go thrift and antique shopping.

The market has different stalls with lots of different things from comic books to cameras to art to, yes, antiques. There, you’ll find things like antique sports memorabilia, furniture, really cool old signs, lamps, jugs and more. And the most fun part is the space is huge and maze-like, so when you go, it’s an adventure. The Flea Market is open Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. For more information, find the business on Facebook.

—Amber Helsel

Buffalo Peak Outfitters Director of Marketing Cody McCain attributes the company’s success to being overwhelmingly involved with the community.

“Over the years, our goal has been not just sell people stuff, but to personally get to know real people here,” McCain says.

He says Patagonia is the best-selling men’s item, but the store also has brands such as The North Face, Columbia and more.

For men looking for more than just clothes, Buffalo Peak also has YETI products, Farm to Feet socks, and more.

For more information, find the business on Facebook.

—Johnie Hannah

January 23 - February 5,2019 • jfp.ms

(1325 Flowood Drive, Flowood, 601-953-5914)

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Through Valentine’s Day,

Buy 4 & Get 1 FREE on our High-Scoring (90+ Point), Low-Priced (many < $20) Tasting Team Wines!

921 East Fortification Street (601) 983-5287 www.katswine.com/tasting-team @KatsWine

January 23 - February 5, 2019 • jfp.ms

King Cake Headquarters!

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. a e 5 9 . $26 Order Yours Today!

Available Jan 6th - Mar 5th

COOPERATION JACKSON PRESENTS:

January 26 Movie Night Detroit Balagoon Center 939 W Captial Street 6:00pm -8:00pm

2019: A MAGICAL MYSTERY TOUR February 8 | Sarting at 7pm

The Imari Obadel Center for Community Production P R E SE NT S:

Art House I Tech House Black Art 922 West Capitol Street, Jackson Ms Free Food and Drink Live DJ, and Performances Donations Accepted

Saturday, March 23

9:00AM - CHILDREN’S FESTIVAL

10:00AM - HOLLYWOOD FEED PET PARADE

11:00AM - CHILDREN’S PARADE 1:00PM - HAL’S ST. PADDY’S PARADE 2:30PM - HAL’S ST. PADDY’S FESTIVAL tickets & info: halsstpaddysparade.com

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January 23 - February 5, 2019 • jfp.ms

Now Through – Dec 31, 2019

45

aTo Do Listd

Looking for something great to do in Jackson? Visit JFPEVENTS.COM for more.

Road, Flora). Participants learn to make a variety of cocktails. Includes two cocktails and a small plate. Reservations required. $20 per person; call 601-667-4282, ext. 3.

WEDNESDAY 1/23 The Lunazul Tequila Dinner is from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at Sombra Mexican Kitchen (140 Township Ave., Suite 100, Ridgeland). Participants can enjoy a four-course Mexican dinner featuring cocktail pairings with Lunazul tequila from Jalisco, Mexico. Limited seating. $58 per person or $40 for food only plus tax and gratuity; call 601-707-7950; ridgeland.sombramexicankitchen.com.

Junior League Jumble Jan. 31, 7-11 p.m., Feb. 2, 8 a.m.-2 p.m., at Jackson Metropolitan YMCA (800 E. River Place). The Junior League of Jackson hosts the annual fundraising event featuring new and gently used items for sale, such as furniture, home goods, kids’ clothing, electronics and more. The reveal party is on Jan. 31, and “Peek & Purchase” is on Feb. 2 from 6-8 a.m. Pricing options: $50 per person or $80 per couple for reveal party (optional VIP hour for an additional $10); $10 Peek & Purchase; $5 general admission; free admission from 3-4 p.m. $50 reveal party, $10 peek & purchase, $5 general admission; juniorleaguejumble.com.

CLIPART

COMMUNITY

January 23 - February 5,2019 • jfp.ms

Events at Millsaps College (1701 N. State St.) • Basics of Investing Jan. 28, Feb. 4, 6-7:15 p.m., at Millsaps College (1701 N. State St.).

Mark Maxwell is the instructor. Participants learn about topics such as stocks, bonds, annuities, mutual funds, taxation, qualified plans and more. Class meets Mondays through Feb. 11 or April 8-May 6. $80; millsaps.edu.

• The Architecture of Antebellum Jackson Jan. 29, 6:30-8:30 p.m., at Millsaps College (1701 N. State St.). Todd Sanders is the instructor.

The class examines the architectural history of Jackson, including notable surviving structures such as the Old Capitol, the Governor’s Mansion and various landmarks. $40; millsaps.edu.

• Military Medicine During the Civil War Feb. 5, 5:30-8:30 p.m., at Millsaps College (1701 N. State St.). William Hanigan is the instructor. Participants learn about Union and Confederate medical services in the midst of military conflicts and a shifting political landscape in the Civil War. $50 per person; millsaps.edu.

46

Mind Your Own Business: Mastery & Think Tank Day Jan. 26, 9 a.m.-noon, at The Hilton Jackson (133 Soldiers Colony Road, Canton).

EPWA President Kathy Amos teaches participants about how to strategically develop their own businesses by using their talents and passions. $39; email klaministries@gmail.com; eventbrite.com.

Pets in the ‘Park Jan. 26, 10-11 a.m., at Northpark (1200 East County Line Road, Ridgeland).

Participants bring their pets to the park, where Northpark holds giveaways and offers “puppicinos.” Free admission; call 601-863-2300; email ccampbell@northparkmall.com.

“Singer-Songwriter Appreciation” Live Recording Jan. 26, noon., at Soul Wired Cafe (4147 Northview Plaza Drive). Solo artists can sign up to record up to three songs live, which will then be presented in a performance at 7 p.m. Artists can only record original material that they have the rights to. Register in advance. $20 per artist; call 214-900-7779; find it on Facebook.

Family Firearms Safety Course Jan. 26, 1-5 p.m., at Boondocks Firearms Safety Academy (11771 MS-18, Raymond). The course teaches both adults and children about firearm safety and usage. Firearms and ammunition provided. Free admission; eventbrite.com.

FRIDAY 1/25

History Is Lunch: Ben Wynne Feb. 6, noon-1 p.m., at Two Mississippi Museums (222 North St.). In Craig H. Neilsen Auditorium. Guest speaker Ben Wynne presents on his book, “The Man Who Punched Jefferson Davis: The Political Life of Henry S. Foote, Southern Unionist.” Book sales and signing to follow.

Free admission; call 601-576-6998; email info@mdah.ms.gov; mdah.ms.gov.

CLIPART

Theatre (1100 Carlisle St.). The class for children in fourth through sixth grades teaches the building blocks of theater technique.

Students build a script from scratch and learn about character development, acting and storytelling, and develop an original script for a showcase. $150; call 601-948-3533, ext.

232; email education@newstagetheatre.com; newstagetheatre.com.

Play. Eat. Learn.—Connections Jan. 29, 6-7:15 p.m., at Mississippi Children’s Museum (2145 Museum Blvd.). The event for parents, caretakers and educators offers a look inside the mind of a child. Includes dinner while it lasts and

SATURDAY 1/26 Mississippi Blues Marathon begins 7 a.m. at Downtown Jackson (Downtown Jackson ).

The 12th annual race features marathon, half-marathon and

KIDS

An Evening with Temperance Babcock begins 7 p.m at Duling Hall (622 Duling Ave.). The Jackson-based country artist and fiddle player’s latest single is titled “Singing Myself to Sleep.” Ron Etheridge also performs. $12 in advance, $15 at the door; call 662-322-3369; find it on Facebook.

CommUNITY Canvas—Open Studio Jan. 27, 2-5 p.m., at Jax-Zen Float (155 Wesley Ave.).

The event is for artists of all experience levels.

For an additional $10 fee, participants can get acrylic paints, brushes, markers, pastels and other supplies. Includes an easel and apron, but not paint or canvas. Limited to 15 people. Register in advance. $10 bring your own supplies, $20 supplies included; call 601-691-1697; jax-zenfloat.com.

Bar Demo Jan. 31, 6-8 p.m., at The Gathering at Livingston Mercantile (106 Livingston Church

Events at New Stage Theatre (1100 Carlisle St.) • Story Theatre: Dr. Seuss’ “The Sneetches” Jan. 26, Feb. 2, 9-10:30 a.m., at New Stage Theatre (1100 Carlisle St.). The class for children in first through third grade teaches the building blocks of theater technique. Students build a script from scratch and learn about character development, acting and storytelling, and develop an original script for a showcase. $150; call 601-948-3533, ext.

232; email education@newstagetheatre.com; newstagetheatre.com.

•Youth Acting Troupe Jan. 26, 11 a.m.-noon., at New Stage Theatre (1100 Carlisle St.). Students ages 12-18 learn about acting through exercises and dress rehearsals. The class will focus on scene work. The event will culminate in a “Shakespeare in the Park” performance.

No audition is necessary to join. An informational meeting will be on Saturday, Jan. 12, at 10 a.m. $400 for semester, $100 per month; call 601-948-3533, ext. 232; education@ newstagetheatre.com; newstagetheatre.com.

•Story Theatre: R.J. Palacio’s “Wonder” Feb. 2, 10:45 a.m.-12:15 p.m., at New Stage

SUNDAY 1/27 Jewish Cinema Mississippi begins 2 p.m. at Malco Grandview Cinema (221 Grandview Blvd., Madison). The 17th annual festival features work from Jewish filmmakers. Includes screenings of “Bye Bye Germany,” “The Last Suit,” “GI Jews: Jewish Americans in World War II” and “A Quiet Heart.” Additional CLIPART dates: Jan. 24, Jan. 26, Jan. 28, 7 p.m. $35 festival pass, $10 per film; call 601-957-0434; jewishcinemams.com.

RAWPIXEL

“Quarter Note” quarter-marathon options, a 5K and more. Includes live music throughout the race. A portion of the proceeds goes to the Mississippi Blues Commission’s Musicians’ Benevolent Fund.

childcare for ages 3-10. Children will be allowed to play in the museum with supervision from the Junior League of Jackson while adults attend the program. Free admission; call 601-981-5469; mschildrensmuseum.org.

FOOD & DRINK Hot Stove Hall of Fame Evening Jan. 24, 5:308:30 p.m., at Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame & Museum (1152 Lakeland Drive). The fundraiser event features a Q&A with Mississippian baseball professionals and a reception with food, beer and wine. $50; call 601-982-8264; email apatterson@msfame.com; msfame.com.

“BBQ, Beer & Live Trivia” Jan. 28, Feb. 4, 7:30 p.m., at The Pig & Pint (3139 N. State St.).

Challenge Entertainment presents Live Trivia, featuring a $50 gift card for first place, a $20 gift card for second place, and a $10 gift card for third place. Free; pigandpint.com.

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January 23 - February 5, 2019 • jfp.ms

Untitled by Darby Phillips

47

S L AT E

the best in sports over the next two weeks

by Bryan Flynn, follow at jfpsports.com, @jfpsports

It could be a perfect ending for Tom Brady and Bill Belichick if the Patriots win the Super Bowl. After all, New England’s current run of dominance began against the Rams.

THURSDAY, JAN. 24

Women’s college basketball (6-8 p.m., SECN): MSU v. Florida FRIDAY, JAN. 25

Men’s college basketball (5:307:30 p.m., FS1): Michigan v.

Indiana SATURDAY, JAN. 26

Men’s college basketball (7:309:30 p.m. SECN): Auburn v. MSU SUNDAY, JAN. 27

aTo Do Listd SOUPer Bowl XXII Feb. 3, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., at Mississippi Agriculture & Forestry Museum (1150 Lakeland Drive). The annual event features unlimited soup from local restaurants, as well as desserts and more. Includes a silent auction and live entertainment. Adult tickets include bowls from The Mustard Seed while supplies last. $25 per adult (includes bowl), $10 child ticket; call 601-982-4881; email jennifer.s.bennett@uss.salvationarmy.org; salvationarmyalm.org.

Paint & Sip: New Moon Intentions—Whale Feb. 6, 6-8 p.m., at Jax-Zen Float (155 Wesley Ave.). Attendees will take part in a “meaningful intention setting ritual” and then paint those intentions into a work of art. This session invites participants to paint a whale as a symbolic reminder to listen to their inner voice. Bring an adult beverage and a personal writing journal. $35 (bring a friend and both receive $5 off); call 601-691-1697; jax-zenfloat.com.

SPORTS & WELLNESS T’ai Chi Jan. 24, Jan. 31, 6:15-7:45 p.m., at Millsaps College (1701 N. State St.). Mike Chadwick is the instructor. Participants learn

NFL (2-5 p.m., ABC/ESPN): NFL Pro Bowl Game Men’s college basketball (6-8 p.m., ESPN): Duke v. Notre Dame TUESDAY, JAN. 29

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 30

Men’s college basketball (5:307:30 p.m., SECN): Mississippi v.

Florida THURSDAY, JAN. 31

Women’s college basketball (7-9 p.m., SECN): Auburn v.

Mississippi FRIDAY, FEB. 1

Men’s college basketball (6-8 p.m., ESPNU): Yale v. Harvard SATURDAY, FEB. 2

Men’s college basketball (2:304:30 p.m., SECN): MSU v.

Mississippi January 23 - February 5,2019 • jfp.ms

SUNDAY, FEB. 3

48

NFL (5:30-9 p.m., CBS): Super Bowl LIII—New England Patriots v. Los Angeles Rams MONDAY, FEB. 4

Men’s college basketball (7-9 p.m., ESPNU): MVSU v. Grambling TUESDAY, FEB. 5

Men’s college basketball (6-8 p.m., SECN): South Carolina v.

Kentucky WEDNESDAY, FEB. 6

Men’s college basketball (6-8 p.m., SECN): Texas A&M v. Mississippi

Man Gravel Grind III. Race participants can also pick up their packets. Free admission; find it on Facebook.

Creative Healing Studio Feb. 6, 12:30-2 p.m., at Mississippi Museum of Art (380 S. Lamar St.).

Art therapist Susan Anand leads the bimonthly art activity for adults being treated for cancer or those who have previously been diagnosed. All skill levels welcome. Registration required. Free admission, registration required; call 601-9601515; msmuseumart.org.

STAGE & SCREEN Events at New Stage Theatre (110 Carlisle St.) • Advanced Acting with John Maxwell Jan. 28, Feb. 4, 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m., at New Stage Theatre (1100 Carlisle St.). John Maxwell assists participants in developing their acting skills. The class emphasizes communication and “growing through a role” rather than “finding a role.” Includes some homework and may include scene work with a partner outside of class. Some stage experience suggested. $200; call 601-948-3533; newstagetheatre.com.

TUESDAY 1/29

MONDAY, JAN. 28

Men’s college basketball (7:309:30 p.m., SECN): MSU v. Alabama

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CLIPART

Intermediate Mosaics—Mosaic on Clear Glass is from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Millsaps College (1701 N. State St.). Teresa Haygood is the instructor. Participants learn to create a framed, clear-glass mosaic. Basic knowledge of glass cutting and shaping is helpful but not required. Additional dates: Jan. 30, Feb. 5. $120 plus $40 supplies fee; call 601-974-1000; millsaps.edu.

about and practice Yang-style T’ai Chi with an emphasis on health, stress management, increased balance and more. Class meets either Thursdays from Jan. 10-Feb. 28 or April 4-May 23. Limited class size. $150; millsaps.edu.

Crossfit 27:17 Winter Classic Jan. 26, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., at Crossfit 27:17 (513 Liberty Road, Suite 2A, Flowood). The inaugural three-person-team competition features beginner, intermediate and Rx categories. Team members must be same-sex.

Register in advance. Admission TBA; call 601613-4014; find it on Facebook.

Yoga for Everyone Jan. 29, Feb. 5, 6:15-7:30 p.m., at Millsaps College (1701 N. State St.).

Sally Holly is the instructor. Participants learn yoga techniques and postures to strengthen muscles and increase flexibility. Must bring sticky mat and a firm blanket. Class meets Tuesdays through April 2 or April 16-July 2. $150; call 601-974-1130; millsaps.edu.

Move Sense: Exploring the Body & Self Through Movement Jan. 30, Feb. 6, 6:30-8:30 p.m., at Millsaps College (1701 N. State St.).

Jane Newkirk is the instructor. The class is based on principles of the Axis Syllabus and somatic movement, combining biomechanics, art, imagery and movement. Class meets either Wednesdays from Jan. 16-Feb. 13 (except for Jan. 23) or April 10-May 1. $95 plus $5 supplies fee; call 601-974-1000; millsaps.edu.

Meet & Greet with Tinker Juarez Feb. 1, 4-7:30 p.m., at The Bike Crossing (115 W. Jackson St., Suite 1-D, Ridgeland). Customers can meet BMX Hall of Fame cross-country biker Tinker Juarez, who will be in town to race in the Dead

• “Hell in High Water” Jan. 29-Feb. 3, Feb. 5-6, 7:30 p.m., at New Stage Theatre (1100 Carlisle St.). The Marcus Gardley-penned play tells the stories of Greenville, Miss., and how the Great Flood of 1927 changed people’s lives and their town forever. Recommended for ages 12 and up. $30 admission, $25 seniors, students and military; call 601-948-3533; newstagetheatre.com.

• Voiceover 101 with Keri Grayson Horn Feb. 4, 5:30-7 p.m., at New Stage Theatre (1100 Carlisle St.). The class teaches multiple skills relating to voiceover, including vocal techniques, warm-up exercises, microphone etiquette and approaching the script. Instructor Keri Grayson Horn discusses different aspects of voiceover, as well as where and where not to go for jobs. $150; call 601-948-3533; newstagetheatre.com.

Popcorn in the ‘Park Jan. 24, 6-8 p.m., at Northpark (1200 E. County Line Road, Ridgeland). The family-friendly event features a screening of the animated film “Smallfoot” on the Media Wall in the Eatery. Free admission; find it on Facebook.

Montage Theater of Dance Presents: “Kansas City: The Story of the Negro Baseball Leagues” Feb. 5-7, 7 p.m., at Cain-Cochran Hall-Hinds Community College (Raymond) (608 Hinds Blvd., Raymond) and Feb. 10, 3 p.m., at Thalia Mara Hall (255, 4115, E. Pascagoula St.). The performance tells the story of Jackie Robinson as he becomes the first African American to play in Major League Baseball and sparks integration in the sport. Advanced tickets are $5 for students and seniors, and $7 for

general admission. Tickets at the door are $7 for students and seniors, and $10 general admission.

“Kinky Boots” Feb. 6, 7:30 p.m., at Thalia Mara Hall (255 E. Pascagoula St.). The Grammy- and Tony Award-winning musical tells the story of a struggling shoe-factory owner who gets introduced to the worlds of cabaret and drag performance. $35-$60; jacksonbroadway.com.

CONCERTS & FESTIVALS Events at Thalia Mara Hall (255 E. Pascagoula St.) • Bravo III: Russian Flair Jan. 26, 7:30 p.m. The Mississippi Symphony Orchestra performs a concert with award-winning guest pianist Vadym Kholodenko. Includes music such as Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov’s “Russian Easter Overture,” Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s “Mozartiana” and Sergei Prokofiev’s “Piano Concerto No. 3 in C Major, Op. 26.” $21-$64; call 601-9601565; msorchestra.com.

• Pops II: The Texas Tenors Feb. 2, 7:30-11:55 p.m. The Mississippi Symphony Orchestra presents the concert featuring the Emmy Award-winning Texas trio performing a blend of classical, country, Broadway, pop and gospel music. $16-$51; msorchestra.com.

Events at Martin’s Downtown (214 S. State St.) • Hash Cabbage Jan. 26, 10 p.m. The New Orleans-native band is known for its signature blend of psychedelic rock, improvisational jazz, reggae and funk. Doors open at 9 p.m.

Admission TBA; martinsdowntownjxn.com.

• Neurotic Diction Feb. 1, 10 p.m. The New Orleans-based funk-fusion instrumental band performs. Doors open at 9 p.m. For ages 18 and up. Admission TBA; call 601-354-9712; martinsdowntownjxn.com.

• Sweet Crude Feb. 2, 10 p.m. The New Orleans-native band is known for its blend of indie-rock and traditional Cajun music. Their latest album is titled “Créatures.” Doors open at 9 p.m. Admission TBA; call 601-354-9712; martinsdowntownjxn.com.

THURSDAY 1/31

RAWPIXEL

“Delivered” Dinner Theater is from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Olde Towne Depot (281 E. Leake St., Clinton). The Detectives present the comedic dinner theater show with a three-course meal. Seating and cocktail hour at 6 p.m. BYOB. $45 per person; call 601-291-7444; email thedetectives@ymail.com; thedetectives.biz.

Events at Duling Hall (622 Duling Ave.) • Fruition Jan. 29, 7:30 p.m. The Portlandbased folk-rock band’s latest album is titled “Watching It Fall Apart.” Daniel Rodriguez of Elephant Revival also performs. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. $12 in advance, $15 day of the show; call 877-987-6487; ardenland.net.

• The Sedonas Feb. 2, 8 p.m. The Knoxville, Tenn., Americana and roots-rock band’s latest album is titled “American Paint.” Empty Atlas, Stonewalls and The Woodland also perform.

Doors open at 7 p.m. $7 in advance, $10 day of the show; call 877-987-6487; ardenland.net.

Samantha Crain in Concert Jan. 26, noon, at Mississippi Museum of Art (380 S. Lamar St.).

In the Art Garden. Choctaw folk singer-songwriter Samantha Crain performs for the closing of the exhibition “Jeffrey Gibson: Like a Hammer.” Museum members who register by noon on Jan. 25 receive reserved parking and seating, and a guided pre-concert tour. Free admission; call 601-960-1515; msmuseumart.org.

Attaché Alumni Dinner Theatre & Silent Auction Jan. 26, 7-9 p.m., at Mississippi College (200 Capitol St., Clinton). In Anderson Hall in the B.C. Rogers Student Center. The Clinton High School Attaché Show Choir presents the 11th-annual dinner, silent auction and live performance featuring current Attaché members and alumni. $45 per person; call 601-573-8442; find it on Facebook.

CMBS Blue Monday Jan. 28, Feb. 4, 7 p.m., at Hal & Mal’s (200 Commerce St.). The Central Mississippi Blues Society presents the weekly blues show, which features a “Front Porch Acoustic Hour” and a jam with the Blue Monday Band. Cash bar available. $5 admission, $3 for CMBS members; call 601-948-0888; halandmals.com.

LITERARY SIGNINGS Events at Lemuria Books (4465 Interstate 55 N., Suite 202) • “The Weight of a Piano” Book Signing Jan. 30, 5 p.m., at. Author Chris Cander signs copies. Reading at 5:30 p.m. $26.95 book; call 601-366-7619; lemuriabooks.com.

• “Grand Slam Murders” Book Signing Feb. 1, 5 p.m. Author R.J. Lee signs copies. Reading at 5:30 p.m. $15.95 book; call 601-3667619; lemuriabooks.com.

• “I Was Thinking...” Book Signing Feb. 2, 1 p.m. Author Stan Buckley signs copies of his book, “I Was Thinking...: Musings and Meditations from a Lawyer, Mega-Church Pastor and General Do-Gooder.” Reading at 1:30 p.m. $17.95 book; lemuriabooks.com.

•“How We Came to Be” Book Signing Feb. 3, noon. Author Johnnie Bernhard signs copies. $18.95 book; call 601-366-7619; lemuriabooks.com.

CREATIVE CLASSES Events at Millsaps College (1701 N. State St.) • Beginning Harmonica Jan. 28, Feb. 4, 6:307:30 p.m. Scott Albert Johnson is the instructor. Participants learn rudiments of playing single notes, the difference between melodic and blues harmonica playing, basic songs and phrases, and more. Class meets Mondays either Jan. 14-Feb. 4 or April 15-May 6. $100 (plus harmonica); call 601-974-1000; millsaps.edu.

• To Tell the Truth: The Art of Creative Nonfiction Jan. 28, 6:30-8 p.m. Ellen Ann

Looking for something great to do in Jackson? Visit JFPEVENTS.COM for more.

Fentress is the instructor. Participants explore a variety of nonfiction forms, including memoir, personal essay, criticism and humor. Class meets either Mondays from Jan. 14-Feb. 18 or April 8-May 13. $110; call 601-974-1000; millsaps.edu.

• Transformational Writing: How to Find Your Voice Jan. 28, Feb. 4, 6:30-8 p.m. Jean Farish is the instructor. Participants learn to sharpen their writing skills, develop their own voice, discover their stories and more. Class

601-974-1000; millsaps.edu.

• Introduction to Ballroom Dancing for Couples Feb. 4, 7-8 p.m. Mike and Lisa Day are the instructors. Participants learn the basics behind popular ballroom dances such as the waltz, foxtrot, rumba, cha-cha, tango and single-step swing. Classes meet Mondays from Feb. 4-25 at Dance Connection (306 N. Bierdeman Road, Pearl). $90 per person; millsaps.edu.

SATURDAY 2/2

RAWPIXEL

Chinese Spring Festival Extravaganza is from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Mississippi Museum of Art (380 S. Lamar St.). In the Art Garden. The Mississippi Chinese Association hosts the fifth annual event celebrating the Lunar New Year. Includes cultural performances, arts, crafts, children’s activities, a food fair and more. Free admission; find it on Facebook.

meets either Mondays from Jan. 14-Feb. 18 or April 8-May 13. $110 plus $15 material fee; call 601-974-1000; millsaps.edu.

• Paint & Antique Almost Anything Like a Pro Jan. 29, Feb. 5, 9:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m.

Latresa Enns is the instructor. Participants learn the proper ways to paint, antique and apply decorative finishes to furniture through latex paint, oil-based paint and other mediums.

TUESDAY 2/5 “American Pop” Book Signing begins 5 p.m. at Lemuria Books (4465 Interstate 55 N., Suite 202).

Author Snowden Wright signs copies. Reading at 5:30 p.m. $26.99 book; call 601-366-7619; www.lemuriabooks.com.

RAWPIXEL

Class meets either Tuesdays from Jan. 22-Feb. 5 or April 9-23. $200 plus $60 supplies fee; call 601-974-1000; millsaps.edu.

• Exciting & New Guide to Portrait Drawing Jan. 29, Feb. 5, 6-7:30 p.m. Keisi D.V. Ward is the instructor. Participants learn to sketch faces through various drawing techniques in a relaxed atmosphere. Class meets Tuesdays through Feb. 19. $90 plus supplies; millsaps. edu.

• Beginning Knitting I Jan. 29, Feb. 5, 6-8 p.m. Donna Peyton is the instructor. Participants learn basic knitting techniques such as casting on, knitting, purling, decreasing stitches, seaming and more. Completed projects will include a washcloth, hat and fingerless mitts. $70 plus materials; call

• Calligraphy: The Art of Beautiful Writing Jan. 23, Jan. 30, Feb. 6, 6-7:30 p.m.

Betsy Greener is the instructor. Participants learn copperplate script calligraphy using a flexible pointed dip pen. Limited to 15 students. $120 (plus $35 materials fee); call 601-974-1000; millsaps.edu.

Art in Mind Jan. 23, 10:30 a.m.-noon, at Mississippi Museum of Art (380 S. Lamar St.). Art therapist Susan Anand and McKenzie Drake lead the hands-on art activity designed to stimulate observation, cognition and recall. Registration required. The event takes place on the fourth Wednesday of each month. Free admission, registration required; call 601-496-6463; email mindclinic@umc. edu; msmuseumart.org.

Painting Class - Bird Nest Jan. 24, 6:308:30 p.m., at Downtown Giftery (151 W. Government St., Brandon). Participants learn to paint smooth and textured surfaces while painting a bird nest picture using acrylic on canvas. No experience necessary. $35 per person (supplies included); find it on Facebook.

How Scent It Is! Candle Making Class Jan. 27, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., at Kundi Compound (3220 North State St.). The event teaches participants how to make their own candles. Materials included in cost. $35 per couple; call 769-208-3202; email southernscentsationsms@gmail.com; southernscent sationsms.com.

Vision Quest: The Creatively Fit Program Jan. 27, Feb. 3, 1:30-2:30 p.m., at Jax-Zen Float (155 Wesley Ave.). Creative flow coach Jina Daniels leads the eight-week program focusing on self-discovery through more than 20 creative activities, guided practice and group coaching. Each session offers different creative prompts to work on throughout the week. Includes four live coaching sessions at the studio or via Zoom and lifetime access to the online program. $399 or three payments of $150; call 601-691-1697; clients.mindbodyonline.com.

Free West African Dance Class Jan. 27, Feb. 3, 2-3:30 p.m., at Central United Methodist Family Life Center (517 N. Farish St.). The class teaches West African choreography and performance. All ages and experience-level

are welcomed. Baby and child-friendly class.

Strollers, carriers, playpens are welcomed.

Live music by Alkebulan Music Philosophy.

Sponsored by Greater Jackson Arts Council and Mississippi Arts Commission. Free admission; email shanina.carmichael@gmail. com; find it on Facebook.

Pressed Flower Workshop Jan. 28, 10 a.m.noon, at Eudora Welty House and Garden (1119 Pinehurst St.). Instructor Marsha Cannon leads the floral design workshop.

Limited space. $20 registration fee (materials included); call 601-353-7762; email info@ eudoraweltyhouse.com; mdah.ms.gov.

ARTS & EXHIBITS “Luck of the Draw” Art Event Jan. 31, 6-9 p.m., at Mississippi Agriculture & Forestry Museum (1150 Lakeland Drive). The eighth annual benefit for the Metropolitan YMCAs of Mississippi features drawings for artwork from Tony Davenport, Susan Wellington, Wyatt Waters and more. Each draw ticket guarantees a piece of art. Admission includes food from McClain, drinks, door prizes and more. Jeff Good is the master of ceremonies. $50 admission, $100 draw ticket; find it on Facebook.

Jackson Prep Juried Show 2019 Feb. 5-6, 5-7 p.m., at Mary Katharine Loyacono McCravey Art Gallery at Jackson Preparatory School (3100 Lakeland Drive, Flowood).

Free admission; email MSArtistsGuild@ gmail.com.

BE THE CHANGE Gus Lloyd at St. Richard’s Jan. 25, 7-8 p.m., Jan. 26, 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m., at St. Richard’s Catholic Church (1242 Lynwood Drive ).

Gus Lloyd, host of “Seize the Day” on Sirius XM 129 radio, delivers a message on faith.

Lunch provided on Saturday. Free admission; donations welcomed.

MIRA Civic Engagement Day 2019 Jan. 30, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., at Mississippi Immigrants Rights Alliance (4436 N. State St.). The event discusses various matters of legislation.

Lunch provided. Free admission; find it on Facebook.

Speakeasy Soirée Feb. 1, 8 p.m.-midnight, at The Ice House Venue (251 W. South St.). The Phoenix Club of Jackson presents the 11th annual “roaring ‘20s”-themed party featuring music from Compozitionz, complimentary food and drinks, and more.

Proceeds benefit the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Mississippi. $45 until Jan. 24, $55 until Feb. 1, $65 at the door; find it on Facebook.

2019 Mississippi Dyslexia Symposium Feb. 1, 7:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m., at New Summit School (1417 Lelia Drive). The fifth annual event offers various classes on dyslexia. Features guest speaker Jimmy Huston. Breakfast, lunch and materials included in cost.

Registration only. $45 per person; find it on Facebook.

January 23 - February 5,2019 • jfp.ms

aTo Do Listd

Check jfpevents.com for updates and more listings, or to add your own events online. You can also email event details to events@ jacksonfreepress.com to be added to the calendar. The deadline is noon the Wednesday prior to the week of publication. 49

PortlandOR©JasonCharmePhotography

1/23 - 2/5 WEDNESDAY 1/23 1908 Provisions - Ronnie Brown 6:30-9 p.m.

Alumni House - Pearl Jamz 5:30-8:15 p.m.

Bonny Blair’s - Gena Steele 7-11 p.m.

Char - Tommie Vaughn 6 p.m.

Doe’s Eat Place, Florence - Twyla 7-9 p.m.

Drago’s - Chad Perry 6-9 p.m.

Hal & Mal’s - New Bourbon Street Jazz Band 6-8:30 p.m.

Kathryn’s - Gator Trio 6:30-9:30 p.m.

Pelican Cove - Stace & Cassie 6-10 p.m.

Shucker’s - Proximity 7:30 p.m.

Table 100 - Charles Scott 6 p.m.

Thursday 1/24 1908 Provisions - Vince Barranco 6:30-9 p.m.

Bonny Blair’s - Ron Etheridge Duo 7-11 p.m.

Char - Tommie Vaughn 6 p.m.

Drago’s - Jason Turner 6-9 p.m.

F. Jones - The Corner Band 11 p.m.

Fitzgerald’s - Hunter Gibson 7-11 p.m.

Char - Ronnie Brown 6 p.m.

Doe’s Eat Place, Florence - Robert King 6 p.m.

Drago’s - Johnny Crocker 6-9 p.m.

Duling Hall - Temperance Babcock w/ Ron Etheridge 8 p.m. $12 advance $15 door F. Jones Corner - Lonn’e George & Flasche midnight $10 Fitzgerald’s - Joseph LaSalla 7-11 p.m.

Georgia Blue, Flowood - Aaron Coker Georgia Blue, Madison - Live Music Hal & Mal’s - Barry Leach 7-10 p.m. free The Hideaway - All DJ Dance Music 9 p.m. $10, $5 before 10:30 p.m.

Iron Horse Grill - Deeb’s Blues 9 p.m.

Kathryn’s - Kern Pratt & the Accused feat. Denise Owens 7-10:30 p.m.

Martin’s - Winston Ramble 10 p.m.

McClain - Robert Jones Pelican Cove - Jackson Gypsies 6-10 p.m.

Pop’s Saloon - Spunk Monkees 9 p.m.

Shucker’s - Sonny Duo 5:30 p.m.; Hunter & the Gators 8 p.m. $5; Chad Perry 10 p.m.

Soulshine, Flowood - Casey Phillips 7 p.m. courtesy Compozitionz

January 23 - February 5,2019 • jfp.ms

Compozitionz

50

Georgia Blue, Flowood Nathan Logan Georgia Blue, Madison - Live Music Hal & Mal’s - D’Lo Trio 7-10 p.m. free Iron Horse Grill - John Causey 6 p.m.

Kathryn’s - Keys vs. Strings 6:30-9:30 p.m.

McClain - Joseph LaSalla Pelican Cove - Acoustic Crossroads 6-10 p.m.

Shucker’s - Lovin Ledbetter 7:30 p.m.

Table 100 - Andrew Pates 6 p.m.

Friday 1/25 1908 Provisions - The McGees 7-10 p.m.

Ameristar Bottleneck Blues Bar, Vicksburg - Nu Corp 8 p.m.

Bonny Blair’s - Jason Stogner Band 8 p.m.-midnight $5 Castlewoods Country Club - Larry Brewer 7-10 p.m.

See more music at jfp.ms/musiclistings.

To be included in print, email listings to music@jacksonfreepress.com.

Fruition

Soulshine, Ridgeland - Jessie Howell 7 p.m.

Table 100 - Tommie Vaughn 6 p.m.

WonderLust - DJ Taboo 8 p.m.-2 a.m.

Saturday 1/26 Ameristar Bottleneck Blues Bar, Vicksburg - Nu Corp 8 p.m.

Bonny Blair’s - Lovin Ledbetter 8 p.m.-midnight $10 Char - Bill Clark 6 p.m.

F. Jones Corner - Big Money Mel & Small Change Wayne 10 p.m. $5; Sorrento Ussery midnight $10 Georgia Blue, Flowood - Charade Georgia Blue, Madison - Live Music Hal & Mal’s - “Vittles, Vino & Vinyl” feat. DJ Sandpaper 7-10 p.m. free; Delta State Music Industry Night 6:30 p.m. (red room) The Hideaway - Miles Flatt & South of 20 9 p.m. $10, $5 w/ college ID before 10:30 p.m.

Iron Horse Grill - Barry Leach 7:30 p.m.; Terry “Harmonica” Bean 9 p.m.

Kathryn’s - Faze 4 7-10:30 p.m.

Martin’s - Hash Cabbage w/ Scott Albert Johnson 10 p.m.

McClain - Ronnie McGee & Sons MS College, Anderson Hall - Attaché Show Choir Alumni Dinner Theatre 7 p.m. $45 MS Museum of Art - Samantha Crain noon-1:30 p.m. free Pelican Cove - Phil & Trace 6-10 p.m.

Pop’s Saloon - Trademark 9 p.m.

Shucker’s - Andrew Pates 3:30 p.m.; Hunter & the Gators 8 p.m. $5; Shayne Weems 10 p.m.

Soulshine, Flowood - Ron Etheridge 7 p.m.

Table 100 - Tommie Vaughn 6 p.m.

Thalia Mara Hall - MS Symphony Orchestra’s “Russian Flair” feat.

Vadym Kholodenko 7:30 p.m. $26-$64 Two Rivers, Canton - Luckenbach 8 p.m.

WonderLust - Drag Performance & Dance Party feat. DJ Taboo 8 p.m.-3 a.m. free before 10 p.m.

Sunday 1/27 1908 Provisions - Knight Bruce 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Bonny Blair’s - Mockingbird Sessions 6:30 p.m.

Char - Big Easy Three 11 a.m.; Tommie Vaughn 6 p.m.

The Hideaway - Sunday Jam 4-8 p.m. free Iron Horse Grill - Tiger Rogers 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Kathryn’s - Soul Stew 6-9 p.m.

Pelican Cove - Gena Steele & Buzz Pickens noon-4 p.m.

Shucker’s - Acoustic Crossroads 3:30 p.m.

Table 100 - Raphael Semmes Trio 11 a.m.-2 p.m.; Dan Michael Colbert 6-9 p.m.

Wellington’s - Andy Hardwick 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Monday 1/28 Char - Tommie Vaughn 6 p.m.

Hal & Mal’s - Central MS Blues Society 7 p.m. $5 Kathryn’s - Barry Leach 6:30-9:30 p.m.

Table 100 - Andrew Pates 6 p.m.

Tuesday 1/29 Bonny Blair’s - Open Jam feat. Sonny Brooks 7-11 p.m.

Char - Tommie Vaughn 6 p.m.

Drago’s - Jacob Lipking 6-9 p.m.

Duling Hall - Fruition w/ Daniel Rodriguez 7:30 p.m. $12 advance $15 door Fitzgerald’s - Larry Brewer 7-11 p.m.

Hal & Mal’s - “Dinner, Drinks & Jazz” feat. Raphael Semmes & Friends 6-9 p.m. free

Kathryn’s - Johnny Crocker 6:30-9:30 p.m.

Pelican Cove - Live Music Table 100 - Chalmers Davis 6 p.m.

Soulshine, Ridgeland - Scott Stricklin 7 p.m.

Table 100 - Tommie Vaughn 6 p.m.

WonderLust - DJ Taboo 8 p.m.-2 a.m.

WEDNESDAY 1/30

SATURDAY 2/2

1908 Provisions - Dan Gibson 6:30-9 p.m.

Alumni House - Hunter Gibson & Chris Link 5:30-8:15 p.m.

Bonny Blair’s - ‘80s Night feat. Brian Jones 7-11 p.m.

Char - Tommie Vaughn 6 p.m.

Drago’s - Gena Steele & Carlos Calabrese 6-9 p.m.

Duling Hall - “Fondren Covered: Tribute” 7 p.m. $25 Fitzgerald’s - Johnny Crocker 7-11 p.m.

Kathryn’s - Larry Brewer & Doug Hurd 6:30-9:30 p.m.

Pelican Cove - Robin Blakeney 6-10 p.m.

Shucker’s - Proximity 7:30 p.m.

Table 100 - Andy Henderson 6 p.m.

Ameristar Bottleneck Blues Bar, Vicksburg - Fuel 8 p.m. $30 Char - Bill Clark 6 p.m.

Duling Hall - The Sedonas w/ Empty Atlas, Stonewalls & The Woodland 8 p.m. $7 advance $10 door F. Jones Corner - Big Money Mel & Small Change Wayne 10 p.m. $5; Jamell Richardson midnight $10 The Hideaway - All DJ Dance Music 9 p.m. $10, $5 before 10:30 p.m.

Kathryn’s - Acoustic Crossroads 7-10:30 p.m.

Martin’s - Sweet Crude 10 p.m.

McB’s - Phil & Trace 1-4 p.m.

McClain - Fred Lovett & Steve Chester Pelican Cove - Faze 4 6-10 p.m.

Pop’s Saloon - Live Music 9 p.m.

The Pub, Ridgeland - Jonathan Womble 7:30 p.m.

Shucker’s - Live Music 3:30 p.m.; Live Music 8 p.m. $5; Live Music 10 p.m.

Table 100 - Tommie Vaughn 6 p.m.

Thalia Mara Hall - MS Symphony Orchestra w/ the Texas Tenors 7:30 p.m. $16-$51 WonderLust - Drag Performance & Dance Party feat. DJ Taboo 8 p.m.-3 a.m. free before 10 p.m.

THURSDAY 1/31 1908 Provisions - Chuck Bryan 6:30-9 p.m.

Bonny Blair’s - Stace & Cassie 7-11 p.m.

Char - Tommie Vaughn 6 p.m.

Drago’s - Jonathan Alexander 6-9 p.m.

Duling Hall - “Fondren Covered: Tribute” 7 p.m. $25 F. Jones - The Corner Band 11 p.m. $5 Iron Horse Grill - Caleb Armstrong 6 p.m.

Kathryn’s - The Sole Shakers 6:30-9:30 p.m.

McClain - Joseph LaSalla Shucker’s - Acoustic Crossroads 7:30 p.m.

Table 100 - Andrew Pates 6 p.m.

FRIDAY 2/1 Ameristar Bottleneck Blues Bar, Vicksburg - Color Me Badd & Tone Loc 8 p.m. $40 Char - Ronnie Brown 6 p.m.

F. Jones Corner - Jamell Richardson midnight $10 The Hideaway - All DJ Dance Music 9 p.m. $10, $5 before 10:30 p.m.

The Ice House - “Speakeasy Soirée” feat. Compozitionz 8 p.m. $45 by Jan. 24, $55 by Feb. 1, $65 door Iron Horse Grill - Live Music 9 p.m.

Kathryn’s - Jay Wadsworth 7-10:30 p.m.

Lounge 114 - The Funk Junkies 9 p.m.

Martin’s - Neurotic Diction 10 p.m.

McClain - Jackson Truett Pelican Cove - Acoustic Crossroads 6-10 p.m.

Shucker’s - Live Music 5:30 p.m.; Live Music 8 p.m. $5; Live Music 10 p.m.

SUNDAY 2/3 1908 Provisions - Knight Bruce 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Char - Big Easy Three 11 a.m.; Tommie Vaughn 6 p.m.

Iron Horse Grill - Tiger Rogers 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Pelican Cove - Keys vs. Strings noon-4 p.m.

Table 100 - Raphael Semmes Trio 11 a.m.-2 p.m.; Dan Michael Colbert 6-9 p.m.

Wellington’s - Andy Hardwick 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

MONDAY 2/4 Char - Tommie Vaughn 6 p.m.

Hal & Mal’s - Central MS Blues Society 7 p.m. $5 Kathryn’s - Joseph LaSalla 6:30-9:30 p.m.

Pelican Cove - Live Music Table 100 - Andrew Pates 6 p.m.

TUESDAY 2/5 Char - Tommie Vaughn 6 p.m.

Fenian’s - Open Mic 9 p.m.

Kathryn’s - Phil & Trace 6:30-9:30 p.m.

Pelican Cove - Live Music Table 100 - Chalmers Davis 6 p.m.

SATURD

Offsite & Onsite CATERING AVAILABLE

DAILY BLUE PLACE SPECIALS

THANKS FOR NOMINATING US BEST PLACE FOR LIVE MUSIC BEST OF JACKSON 2019

JANUARY 25

Music/Events

New Bourbon Street Jazz Band

Thank you for voting us finalists:

Thursday 1/24

Best Gumbo Best Live Music Venue

Dining Room - 7pm - Free

Hal’s St. Paddy’s Parade & Festival

Dining Room - 6pm - Free

D’Lo Trio Friday 1/25

Barry Leach Dining Room - 7pm - Free

Saturday 1/26

Best Annual Event Wednesday 1/30

Restaurant Open

Thursday 1/31 Delta State Music Restaurant Open Industry Night Red Room - 6pm

Vittles, Vino & Vinyl

w/ DJ Sandpaper Dining Room - 7pm - Free

Monday 1/28

Central MS Blues Society presents:

Friday 2/1

$3 Members $5 Non-Members

Tuesday 1/29

Dinner Drinks & Jazz with Raphael Semmes and Friends Dining Room - 6pm

HASH CABBAGE

NEUROTIC DICTION

Tuesday 2/5

Dinner Drinks & Jazz with Raphael Semmes and Friends Dining Room - 6pm

3/30 MoneyBagg Yo

visit halandmals.com for a full menu and concert schedule 601.948.0888

200 s. Commerce St.

8 14 21 22 23

SAT. FEB. 02 | 10 P.M.

UPCOMING

Dining Room - 7 - 11pm $3 Members $5 Non-Members

2

FRI. FEB. 01 | 10 P.M.

Central MS Blues Society presents:

Monday 2/4

FEBRUARY

SAT. JAN. 26 | 10 P.M.

Restaurant Open

Saturday 2/2

Upcoming 2/22 Cary Hudson

WINSTON RAMBLE

SWEET CRUDE

Restaurant Open

Blue Monday Blue Monday Dining Room - 7 - 11pm

FRI. JAN. 25 | 10 P.M.

FRI FEB 8 TEDDY AND THE ROUGH RIDERS W/ THE MEDIUM SAT FEB 9 NEW ORLEANS SUSPECTS FRI FEB 15 THE REVELRIES FRI FEB 22 FLOW TRIBE SAT FEB 23 RYAN VISER WITH NOTORIOUS CONDUCT FRI MAR 22 FUNK YOU TUE APR 23 TAUK

MARCH 5 7 8 19 22

APRIL 5 6 10

Get on the Hip Ship!

W W W. M A RT I N S B A R 3 9 2 0 1 . C O M 214 S. STATE ST. DOWNTOWN JACKSON

601.354.9712

COMPLETE SHOW LISTINGS & TICKETS

www.dulinghall.com

January 23 - February 5, 2019 • jfp.ms

Wednesday 1/23

29

51

44 Beer named for a Dutch river 45 Religious offshoot 46 It’s six of one ... and six of the other 48 Bunches 50 36-Down’s “Family” 54 Piece of Necco candy 58 Desert of Mongolia 60 Zany, formally?

63 Practical applications 64 Love on the Loire 65 Mine vein 66 Quartet member 67 George Eliot’s “___ Marner” 68 City near Tulsa 69 “The Facts of Life” actress Mindy 70 Ibsen heroine Gabler 71 Brown and Rather, for two

BY MATT JONES

34 Casual “industry,” formally?

36 50-Across “Cousin” 37 Comedian/actress Butcher of “Take My Wife” 38 Inspiron computer maker 41 Harry Potter accessory 45 Stopped suddenly, as an engine 47 He held over 1,000 patents 49 Be shy 51 Overrun (with) 52 First Lady of the ‘50s 53 Castigate

55 “Criminal” singer Apple 56 “There’s no ___ sight!”

57 Orchestra needs 58 Nacho topper, slangily 59 1952 Olympics host 61 College courtyard 62 “Major” constellation ©2018 Jonesin’ Crosswords (editor@ jonesincrosswords.com)

Last Week’s Answers

For answers to this puzzle, call: 1-900-226-2800, 99 cents per minute. Must be 18+. Or to bill to your credit card, call: 1-800 655-6548. Reference puzzle #898.

Down

“The Long Name” —ooh, someone’s in trouble.

Across

January 23 - February 5,2019 • jfp.ms

1 Chunks of history 5 Decaf brand 10 Lumberyard tools 14 Turn into a puddle 15 “Fuzzy Wuzzy was ___ ...”

16 Preserve, as meat 17 Cupcake decorator 18 Show with skits 19 “Remote Control” host Ken (or German for “upper”) 20 IRS collection, formally?

22 Poke ingredient, often 23 “Saved by the Bell” character Jessie

52

24 Acid-base indicator 26 Formal attire 29 Actor Rob, or either candidate named Ron who competed in a 2018 Kansas congressional primary 32 “___ of Laura Mars” 35 Coif 39 George Gershwin’s brother 40 Amorphous amount (and an “Arrested Development” character) 41 Light bulb measure, formally?

42 Zero, on some fields 43 “It’s hard to be humble when you’re as great as I am” boxer

1 Gives off 2 Newscast summary 3 Echo responder?

4 Orchestral section 5 Dress in Delhi 6 His mother raised Cain 7 “On the Beach” author Shute 8 Hawaii’s “Garden Isle” 9 Fail to exist 10 RBG’s group, for short 11 Mass transit vehicle, formally?

12 Small songbird 13 It comes twice after “Que” in a song 21 Herd comment 25 “I want catnip” 27 “Careless Whisper” group (yeah, that’s the sax solo playing in your mind right now) 28 D.C. diamond denizens 30 Cartman, to his mom 31 Truffle fries topper 32 Victorian expletive 33 Hashtag acronym popularized by a Drake song

Troy & Ann Louise Woodson & Cash Eubanks say

Weekly Services • Sun. 10am 650 E.South Street, Jackson • 601.944.0415 All are welcome here!

Last Week’s Answers

“Sum Sudoku” Put one digit from 1-9 in each square of this Sudoku so that the following three conditions are met: 1) each row, column and 3x3 box (as marked off by heavy lines in the grid) contains the digits 1-9 exactly one time; 2) no digit is repeated within any of the areas marked off by dotted lines; and 3) the sums of the numbers in each area marked off by dotted lines total the little number given in each of those areas. Now do what I tell you—solve!! psychosudoku@gmail.com

CAPITAL CITY BEVERAGES IS PROUD TO SPONSOR THE ‘ BEST OF JACKSON’ 15 YEARS IN A ROW!

What do you like about St. Alexis?

“It’s a place where all are welcomed and all are loved.”

BY MATT JONES

St. Alexis

Episcopal Church

A motivational speaker and author named Nick Vujicic was born without arms or legs, although he has two small, unusually shaped feet. These facts didn’t stop him from getting married, raising a family of four children and writing eight books. One book is entitled “Life Without Limits: Inspiration for a Ridiculously Good Life.” He’s a positive guy who has faith in the possibility of miracles. In fact, he says he keeps a pair of shoes in his closet just in case God decides to bless him with a marvelous surprise. In accordance with current astrological omens, Aquarius, I suggest you make a similar gesture. Create or acquire a symbol of an amazing transformation you would love to attract into your life.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20):

About 11 percent of the Philippines’ population is comprised of Muslims who call themselves the Bangsamoro.

Many resist being part of the Philippines and want their own sovereign nation. They have a lot of experience struggling for independence, as they’ve spent 400 years rebelling against occupation by foreign powers, including Spain, the United States and Japan. I admire their tenacity in seeking total freedom to be themselves and rule themselves. May they inspire your efforts to do the same on a personal level in the coming year.

ARIES (March 21-April 19):

We might initially be inclined to ridicule Stuart Kettell, a British man who spent four days pushing a Brussels sprout up 3,560-foot-high Mount Snowden with his nose.

But perhaps our opinion would become more expansive once we knew that he engaged in this stunt to raise money for a charity that supports people with cancer. In any case, the coming weeks would be a favorable time for you, too, to engage in extravagant, extreme or even outlandish behavior on behalf of a good or holy cause.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20):

The Taurus guitar wizard known as Buckethead is surely among the most imaginative and prolific musicians who has ever lived. Since producing his first album in late 2005, he has released 306 other albums that span a wide variety of musical genres—an average of 23 per year. I propose that we make him your patron saint for the next six weeks. While it’s unlikely you can achieve such a gaudy level of creative self-expression, you could very well exceed your previous personal best in your own sphere.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20):

Novelist Arthur Conan Doyle created Sherlock Holmes, a fictional character who personifies the power of logic and rational thinking. And yet Doyle was also a devout spiritualist who pursued interests in telepathy, the occult and psychic phenomena. It’s no surprise that he was a Gemini, an astrological tribe renowned for its ability to embody apparent opposites. Sometimes that quality is a liability for you folks, and sometimes an asset. In the coming weeks, I believe it’ll be a highly useful skill. Your knack for holding paradoxical views and expressing seemingly contradictory powers will attract and generate good fortune.

CANCER (June 21-July 22):

In 2006, a 176-year-old tortoise named Harriet died in an Australian zoo owned by “Crocodile Hunter” and TV personality Steve Irwin. Harriet was far from her original home in the Galapagos Islands. By some accounts, evolutionary superstar Charles Darwin picked her up and carried her away during his visit there in 1835. I propose that you choose the long-lived tortoise as your power creature for the coming weeks. With her as inspiration, meditate on questions like these: 1. “What would I do differently if I knew I’d live to a very old age?” 2. “What influence that was important to me when I was young do I want to be important to me when I’m old?” 3. “In what specific ways can my future benefit from my past?” 4. “Is there a blessing or gift from an ancestor I have not yet claimed?” 5. “Is there anything I can do that I am not yet doing to remain in good health into my old age?”

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22):

John Lennon claimed that he generated the Beatles song’ “Because” by rendering Beethoven’s “Moonlight Sonata” backwards. Even if that’s true, I don’t think it detracts from the beauty of “Because.” May I suggest you adopt a comparable strategy for your own use in the coming

weeks, Leo? What could you do in reverse so as to create an interesting novelty? What approach might you invert in order to instigate fresh ways of doing things? Is there an idea you could turn upside-down or inside-out, thereby awakening yourself to a new perspective?

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22):

The Tsonga language is spoken by more than 15 million people in southern Africa. The literal meaning of the Tsonga phrase “I malebvu ya nghala” is “It’s a lion’s beard,” and its meaning is “something that’s not as scary as it looks.” According to my astrological analysis, this will be a useful concept for you to be alert for in the coming weeks. Don’t necessarily trust first impressions or initial apprehensions. Be open to probing deeper than your instincts might influence you to do.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22):

The old Latin verb crescere meant “to come forth, spring up, grow, thrive, swell, increase in numbers or strength.”

We see its presence in the modern English, French and Italian word “crescendo.” In accordance with astrological omens, I have selected crescere and its present participle crescentum to be your words of power for the next four weeks. May they help mobilize you to seize all emerging opportunities to come forth, spring up, grow, thrive, swell and increase in numbers or strength.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21):

When animals hibernate, their metabolism slows down. They may grow more underfur or feathers, and some add extra fat. To conserve heat, they may huddle together with each other. In the coming weeks, I don’t think you’ll have to do what they do. But I do suspect it will be a good time to engage in behaviors that have a resemblance to hibernation: slowing down your mind and body; thinking deep thoughts and feeling deep feelings; seeking extra hugs and cuddles; getting lots of rich, warm, satisfying food and sleep. What else might appeal to your need to drop out of your fast-paced rhythm and supercharge your psychic batteries?

Classifieds as low as $35 NOTICES Southside Auto

January 11th 2019. To: Craig Heisser 4125 Sunset Dr Jackson MS 39213.

Capital One auto finance P O Box 660068 Sacramento CA 95866 2017 Toyota Corolla Vin# 5YFBURHE6HP601853 Below Is for your consideration: 2017 Toyota Corolla Vin# 5YFBURHE6HP601853.

This car will be sold on Wednesday February 13th @ 9am for the sum of $575.00 for emergency towing and $1500 for 30 days of storage. Sincerely, Frederick Red, Manager 6013529226

HIRING Marketing Representative

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TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED AD: Post an ad, call 601-362-6121, ext. 11 or fax to 601-510-9019.

Deadline: Mondays at Noon.

T H A N K YO U F O R

voting

B R E A K F A ST BA K E R Y LOC A L F R I E D C H I C K E N

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21):

When people tell me they don’t have time to read the books I’ve written, I advise them to place the books under their pillows and soak up my words in their dreams. I don’t suggest that they actually eat the pages, although there is historical precedent for that. The Bible describes the prophet Ezekiel as literally chewing and swallowing a book. And there are accounts of 16th-century Austrian soldiers devouring books they acquired during their conquests, hoping to absorb the contents of the texts. But in accordance with current astrological omens, I suggest that in the next four weeks you acquire the wisdom stored in books by actually reading them or listening to them on audio recordings. In my astrological opinion, you really do need, for the sake of your psychospiritual health, to absorb writing that requires extended concentration.

REAL ESTATE Office Space for Rent

PLATE LUNCH PLACE FOR DESSERT PRIMOSCAFE.COM

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19):

Among the top “how to” search inquiries on Google are “how to buy Bitcoin,” “how to lose belly fat fast,” “how to cook spaghetti in a microwave” and “how to make slime.” While I do think that the coming weeks will be prime time for you to formulate and launch many “how to” investigations, I will encourage you to put more important questions at the top of your priority list. “How to get richer quicker” would be a good one, as would “how to follow through on good beginnings” and “how to enhance your value” and “how to identify what resources and allies will be most important in 2019.”

Homework: Write yourself a nice long love letter full of praise and appreciation.

Send a copy to me if you like: freewillastrology.com.

Thank you for voting us one of the best:

Local Burgers Veggie Burgers

January 23 - February 5,2019 • jfp.ms

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18):

53

New Stage Theatre presents

NEW YEAR

New You!

HELL IN

HIGH WATER A Play with Music by

Marcus Gardley

Directed by Francine Thomas Reynolds Featuring Vasti Jackson

L

ooking for a place to turn your anxiety about the future into hope for a better tomorrow? Start your transformation with a bachelor or master degree from Belhaven University today. Allow Belhaven to nurture you with the knowledge and power to face your career, personal, and spiritual challenges. Call or visit Belhaven University today to start the new year and a new you.

January 29-February 10, 2019 For tickets: 601-948-3533 or newstagetheatre.com Sponsored by Community Foundation

FOR MISSISSIPPI MEYER AND GENEVIEVE FALK ENDOWMENT FOR CULTURE & ARTS

(601) 968-5940 | @BELHAVENU | WWW.BELHAVEN.EDU | ADMISSION@BELHAVEN.EDU

January 23 - February 5, 2019 • jfp.ms

The best address in Fondren.

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Congratulations Hayley Hayes, fondrenhouses.com Best of Jackon Finalist 2019, 601.366.8511 Best REALTOR®!

601.366.8511 overby.net

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner!

Are you a Best of Jackson Finalist?

Congratulations to All of Our Best of Jackson Winners and Finalist.

Need an office?

Mention this ad and get 15% off one of our monthly plans.

Then You’re Invited To the Best of Jackson Party!

CALL TRIAD BUSINESS CENTERS TODAY!

For tickets and information, contact party@jacksonfreepress.com 601.362.6121 ext.21

www.triadbusinesscenters.com info@triadbusinesscenters.com

(601)-709-4610

460 Briarwood Drive | Suite 400

Dine In or Carry Out for

Male AB Donors Urgently Needed!

UNDER $10

Returning Male AB Donors will be compensated up to $85 for a complete donation starting on their 2nd visit.

In order to donate, you need:

HIBACHI GRILL Steak, Scallops, Tuna, and more!

THAI & JAPANESE Pad Thai, Yaki Udon, and more!

SUSHI COMBOS Rainbow Roll, Dynamite Roll, and more!

Come see why our customers rate us 5 stars on Facebook!

Open 7 Days A Week 11:00 am - 9:00 pm 118 Service Dr, Suite 17 Brandon, MS 601-591-7211

Pre-order your chocolate covered strawberries and handmade chocolates today!

Thank you for your votes!

Finalist for Best Thai.

Valid picture ID Social Security Card Be between 18-70 years old Be in good health

Interstate Blood Bank.

3505 Terry Road Suite 204, Jackson Call us at 601.718.0986 for more information.

Walk-ins are welcome.

New donors will be compensated $50 for a full donation.

Two locations to serve you Open seven days a week.

1030-A Hwy 51 • Madison Behind the McDonalds in Madison Station

601.790.7999

1002 Treetops Blvd • Flowood Behind the Applebee’s on Lakeland

601.664.7588

BE A HERO. IT’S IN YOUR BLOOD. COME AND DONATE WITH US.

Maywood Mart t Jackson, MS t nandyscandy.com Mon-Sat 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. t 601.362.9553

Shine Light on the Power of Courage.

Explore the movement that changed the nation â&#x20AC;&#x201D; and the people behind it.

Stand with Mississippians like Medgar Evers, Fannie Lou Hamer and many others through interactive experiences that bring their stories to life.

222 North Street, Jackson mscivilrightsmuseum.com