MBJ_MTE—Apr27-2018

www.msbusiness.com • April 27, 2018

Mississippi's

Entrepreneurs SPECIAL MAGAZINE EDITION: » INCLUDES LAW & ACCOUNTING FOCUS » THIS WEEK’S TOP NEWSMAKERS

Mississippi Business Journal is accepting nominations for its inaugural Entrepreneurs event. We are looking for individuals who are making their mark as business owners, thought leaders, speakers and authors etc, those individuals who are changing the world for the better. If you know of a deserving individual please take time and nominate below.

Winners will be notiďŹ ed and held a special luncheon on March 2019 in their honor.

Nominee: Company: Title: Business Address: City:

State:

Nominee Phone:

Zip Code:

Nominee Email Address:

Nominee Fax: Nominator: Company: Address: City:

State:

Nominator Phone Number:

Zip Code:

Nominator Email Address:

Nominator Fax: Relationship to Nominee:

PLEASE RETURN TO: Fax: 601-364-1007 • Mail: Top 50, MBJ, 200 N. Congress St., Suite 400, Jackson, MS 39201 More info: 601-364-1000 or events@msbusiness.com

FROM THE EDITOR A member of the Mississippi Press Association www.mspress.org

Mississippi’s entrepreneurs lifeblood of our economy

T

he idea for honoring Mississippi’s top entrepreneurs has been in the works for several years, but the Mississippi Business Journal but we have been working on it in earnest the last two tears, following on many requests and Ross Reily suggestions from our readers and business partners.

One fact that all agreed on is that it is impossible to overstate the importance of entrepreneurs to Mississippi’s economy, and to the economy of the nation overall.

It’s the entrepreneurs who start businesses, provide jobs, innovate, and contribute to the quality of life in our state. We felt that all too often, entrepreneurs don’t get the recognition they so richly deserve, and now we are delighted to be able to honor a group of Mississippi business professionals who know how to make great things happen.

In the course of the past year, we received many nominations for deserving entrepreneurs, from businesspeople, peers, and employees. Following a careful review by the judging committee, we selected a group of professionals who are truly deserving of the

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200 North Congress, Suite 400 Jackson, MS 39201-1902 Main: (601) 364-1000 Faxes: Advertising (601) 364-1007; Circulation (601) 364-1035 E-mails: mbj@msbusiness.com, ads@msbusiness.com, photos@msbusiness.com, research@msbusiness.com, events@msbusiness.com

Website: www.msbusiness.com April 27, 2018 Volume 40, Number 17

ALAN TURNER Publisher alan.turner@msbusiness.com • 364-1021 www.msbusiness

honor.

We are delighted to honor each Mississippi's Entrepreneurs one of these as Mississippi’s Top Entrepreneurs. These are the people of ideas, of accomSPECIAL MAGA

.com • April 27, 2018

ZINE EDITION: » INCLUDES LAW & ACCOUNTING FOCUS » THIS WEEK’S TOP NEWSMAKERS

TAMI JONES Associate Publisher tami.jones@msbusiness.com • 364-1011 ROSS REILY Editor ross.reily@msbusiness.com • 364-1018 FRANK BROWN List Researcher frank.brown@msbusiness.com • 364-1022 JACK WEATHERLY Staff Writer jack.weatherly@msbusiness.com • 364-1016 TACY RAYBURN Production Manager tacy.rayburn@msbusiness.com • 364-1019 CHARINA RHODES Circulation Manager charina.rhodes@msbusiness.com • 364-1045 MARCIA THOMPSON-KELLY Business Assistant marcia.kelly@msbusiness.com • 364-1044

One fact that all agreed on is that it is impossible to overstate the importance of entrepreneurs to Mississippi’s economy, and to the economy of the nation overall. plishment, of dedication and hard work, and their success is the proof. » Contact Mississippi Business Journal editor Ross Reily at ross. reily@msbusiness.com or (601) 364-1018.

Subscription Services (601) 364-1000 subscriptions@msbusiness.com Mississippi Business Journal (USPS 000-222) is published weekly with one annual issue by MSBJ 200 N. Congress St., Suite 400, Jackson, MS 39201. Periodicals postage paid at Jackson, MS. Subscription rates: 1 year $109; 2 years $168; and 3 years $214.

To place orders, temporarily stop service, change your address or inquire about billing: Phone: (601) 364-1000, Fax: (601) 364-1035, Email: charina.rhodes@msbusiness.com, Mail: MS Business Journal Subscription Services, 200 N.Congress Street, Suite 400, Jackson, MS 39201 POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Mississippi Business Journal, Circulation Manager, 200 North Congress Street, Suite 400, Jackson, MS 39201 To submit subscription payments: Mail: MS Business Journal Subscriptions Services, 200 North Congress Street, Suite 400, Jackson, MS 39201.

No material in this publication may be reproduced in any form without the written consent. Editorial and advertising material contained in this publication is derived from sources considered to be reliable, but the publication cannot guarantee their accuracy. Nothing contained herein should be construed as a solicitation for the sale or purchase of any securities.

It is the policy of this newspaper to employ people on the basis of their qualifications and with assurance of equal opportunity and treatment regardless of race, color, creed, sex, age, sexual orientation, religion, national origin or handicap.

The Mississippi Business Journal, is an affiliate of Journal Publishing Company (JPC), Inc.: Clay Foster, president and chief executive officer.

Entire contents copyrighted © 2018 by Journal Inc. All rights reserved.

Mississippi Business Journal – 3

Mississippi Business Journal April 27, 2018 Volume 40, Number 17

TABLE OF CONTENTS 2018 CLASS Lilli Bass, Brown Bass & Jeter PLLC ................................................ 5 Carolyn Boteler, Tempstaff ............................................................6 David Bondy, LUBA Workers’ Comp ...............................................6 Katrina Brown, Brown Bass & Jeter, PLLC ....................................... 7 Gary Butler, Camgian .....................................................................8 Ashley Casey, Smiles To Go Mobile Dentistry..................................8 Suresh Chawla, Chawla Hotels, Inc. ................................................9 Tina Seymour Demoran, Seymour Law Firm PLLC ........................ 10 Steve DeSalvo, Mississippi Braves ................................................ 10 Tiffany Franks, Crave .................................................................... 11 Don Glidewell, Think Anew ...........................................................12 Kia Jones, For Brown Girls, Inc. .....................................................12 Samuel Jones, Dr. Samuel Jones Consulting, LLC ...........................13 Carla Kirkland, Kirkland Group ..................................................... 14 Karen Kurr, No Time 2 Cook ......................................................... 14

Phil Landers, Keller Williams Realty...............................................15 Clay Mansell, Mansell Media Inc....................................................15 Janet McCarty, Cotton’s Cafe Dog Treat Barkery ........................... 16 Joni McClain, McClain Lodge........................................................ 16 Matthew McLaughlin, McLaughlin, PC..........................................17 Shannon Arzola, Octavio Arzola, Chuck Kelly, Pop Brother’s ......17 Elic Purvis, The Venue LLC ........................................................... 18 Evelyn Roughton, Crown Restaurant ........................................... 18 Ron Savell, Mugshots .................................................................. 19 Taylor Sledge, Sledge & Company ................................................ 19 Cheli Strumila, Coast Observer/The Coupon Concierge/Magnolia L & E..20 Trent Townsend, Next Step Innovation .........................................20 Dr. Justin Turner, Turner Care........................................................21 Elizabeth Perry Upchurch, Fresh Ink .............................................21 Hagan Walker, Vibe LLC .............................................................. 22 Dewayne Walley, TourneyX, LLC .................................................. 22

FOCUS ON

Law & Accounting

» With eye on future Carr Riggs moves into new digs ............24-25 » Attorney Brehm Bell relies on reputation to attract personal injury clients ....................................................................................... 26 LIST » Largest CPA Firms ..................................................................27

THIS WEEK IN BUSINESS » Newsmakers ..................................................................... 28-29

4 – Mississippi Business Journal

www.msbusiness.com

NOMINEES

Lilli Bass Brown Bass & Jeter PLLC

L

illi Evans Bass focuses on being more than an advocate and advisor but also on helping her clients avoid litigation if possible.

Bass currently serves as Managing Partner of Brown Bass & Jeter, PLLC, and practices law in the areas of general and automobile liability, medical malpractice/professional liability, employment law, premises liability, and government and administrative law. She has significant trial experience in both federal and state courts in Mississippi.

Bass earned her law degree from the University of Mississippi School of law in 2008. Additionally, she serves as Municipal Judge for the City of Yazoo City, Mississippi, having been appointed in 2014 by the Board of Mayor and Aldermen.

Bass has been recognized as a “Rising Star” by Super Lawyers, Top 50 Under 40 by the Mississippi Business Journal, and Top Lawyers in Mississippi. In her spare time, she enjoys playing tennis, reading, and spending time with her family.

Keller Williams Realty 132 Riverview Dr. | Suite A Flowood, MS 39232 601-977-9411 www.msbusiness.com

2018 Mississippi’s Top Entrepreneurs – 5

NOMINEES

David Bondy LUBA Workers’ Comp

D

avid Bondy is founder and CEO of LUBA Workers’ Comp, the fourth largest writer of workers’ comp in Mississippi. Long before the founding of LUBA, Bondy had a significant impact at a time when employers in Mississippi and neighboring states were struggling with unaffordable premiums and poor service. In the late 80’s and early 90’s standard workers’ comp carriers were operating inefficiently and passing along the excessive cost to employers. At that time Bondy was employed by a company specializing in self-insurance, an innovative concept that put more control into the hands of employers. He took this concept and helped to form the first self-insured funds created in several states including Mississippi. The list includes the Mississippi Municipal Association, the Mississippi Automobile Dealers Association, and the Builders & Contractors Association of Mississippi (BCAM).

In 1991, Bondy founded LUBA Workers’ Comp as a self-insurance fund and it later converted to a casualty insurance company in 2006. LUBA serves some 4,000 policyholders and 160,000 workers across four states. LUBA proudly carriers an “A- Excellent” financial rating from AM Best Company, the world’s leading insurance rating service.

David and Jeanie, his wife of 42 years, have a son, Trent, and a daughter, Kelli, who are actively involved at LUBA. David and Jeanie are also the proud grandparents of four precious grandchildren.

Carolyn Boteler Tempstaff

C

arolyn Boteler’s motto is ‘For every job there is a person, and for every person there is a job.” With that focus, she has grown the Jackson office of TempStaff from a three-employee, $3-million office in 1984 to a 33-employee, $20-million company that is one of the top independent staffing companies in the state.

Boteler oversees day-to-day operations that include a corporate office, two branch offices, and the financial, insurance and support services.

Boteler has contributed her time and leadership to the Girl Scouts of Greater Mississippi, the American Heart Association, the Rankin First Economic Development Board, TempNet, Rankin County Sheriff ’s Juvenile Advisory Board, Rankin Youth and Adult Leadership Advisory Board and the Christian Women’s Job Corp.

Boteler has been a three-time recipient of the Mississippi Business Journal’s 50 Leading Business Women award. She was named an Enterprising Women of the Year by Enterprising Women Magazine in 2007. Boteler was a TempNet Member of the Year and won the 2014 Champion Award for Women’s Business Enterprise Council South Region.

6 – 2018 Mississippi’s Top Entrepreneurs

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NOMINEES

Katrina Brown Brown Bass & Jeter, PLLC

D

ynamic, assertive, determined with a genuine desire to help people, is how Katrina Brown is described in the legal community.

Brown developed a passion for the law at an early age.

In 2013, she was honored by Lawyers of Color Inc., in its first annual “Lawyers of Color Hot List.” Katrina was recognized by the Mississippi Business Journal as a “Top 40 under 40” Business Leader for 2014. Brown has been recognized by Super Lawyers as a “Rising Star” for 2014, 2015, and is a graduate of Leadership Greater Jackson, class of 2013-14.

Brown’s law practice has centered on litigation in both state and federal trial courts. She grew up in Crystal Springs, Mississippi, and attended the University of Southern Mississippi in Hattiesburg where she received her B.A. in Paralegal Studies in 2003. After USM, Brown went on to law school at the University of Mississippi School of Law, graduating in 2005.

Brown is actively involved in her community through various civic and legal organizations. In her spare time, she enjoys traveling, attending professional sporting events, concerts and mentoring young ladies in her community.

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2018 Mississippi’s Top Entrepreneurs – 7

NOMINEES

Gary Butler Camgian

F

rom his early work in building advanced sensor technologies and solutions for organizations, Gary Butler has lead Camgian’s evolution into a national leader in the Internet of Things market.

The Starkville firm has been named one of the nation’s fastest growing private companies by Inc. Magazine, one of the Top 50 Most Promising I-o-T Companies by CIO Review, and the 2015 M-2-M Emerging Company of the Year by Compass Intelligence. ABI Research called Camgian a 2015 Hot Tech Innovator.

Butler has been a speaker and panelist at events such as Liveworx, the I-o-T Global Summit, CLSA Americas I-o-T Innovation Summit, M-2-M Evolution and TED-x. Butler has been recognized as a 2015 I-o-T CEO of the Year by Postscapes, a member of the 2015 Mississippi Tech 21 by the Mississippi Business Journal, and one of 10 Mississippi Vision Leaders for 2015 by the Mississippi Innovation Economy.

Butler founded Camgian in December 2006 and it has grown into a leader in combining low-power microelectronics, sensors, wireless communications and signal processing to fill intelligence gaps for both the defense and commercial markets.

Ashley Casey Smiles To Go Mobile Dentistry

“I

f you look inside a person’s mouth, that will give you a pretty good picture of their overall health,” says Ashley Casey, co-founder of the Mississippi based mobile dental service Smiles To Go. “You can look at some of the children who’ve got 12 to 15 cavities, and it kinda will paint a picture for you about their overall, general health,” she continued.

Casey, a registered nurse, and her husband, Lee Casey, a registered dentist, founded Smiles To Go in 2014. The program partners with Mississippi school districts to ensure children in need receive dental services regardless of economic status. It aims to improve children’s health by improving their teeth.

Casey graduated from Ole Miss with a degree in pre nursing, a BS in nursing from University of Mississippi Medical Center, a Master of Public Health from Southern Miss and an MBA from Southern Miss.

8 – 2018 Mississippi’s Top Entrepreneurs

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NOMINEES

Suresh Chawla Chawla Hotels, Inc.

S

uresh Chawla is president of Chawla Hotels, Inc. Cholera currently owns and operate 17 limited service hotels in the Mississippi Delta. He recently became the first franchisee of Trump Hotels Group new franchise, American Idea Hotels and he will own and operate three American Idea Hotels, which will be the first three in the world.

Cholera also recently partnered with Trump Hotels and hired them to operate, brand, and market the new Scion Hotel development in Cleveland, Mississippi. The Scion of Cleveland will be the first Trump Hotels Group Scion Hotel in the world.

Awards for Chawla include three Chawla Hotels winning Intercontinental Hotels Group Newcomer of the Year, two Hampton Inns winning the Torchbearer Award, and Choice Hotels awarding one Chawla Hotel with a Gold Award.

Chawla’s company current employs more than 300 people, grosses over $25 million in revenue, and creates more than $2 million in sales tax revenue and $1 million in property tax revenue annually.

CONGRATULATIONS

Carla Kirkland

Congratulations!

Clay Mansell and Justin Turner, MD for being recognized as some of Mississippi’s Top Entrepreneurs.

Clay Mansell

Justin Turner, MD

on being named as

2018 TOP ENTREPRENEURS 404 Orchard Group Ridgeland, MS 39157 601-206-5505 www.msbusiness.com

There’s Merit in Entrepreneurship.

2018 Mississippi’s Top Entrepreneurs – 9

NOMINEES

Tina Seymour Demoran Seymour Law Firm PLLC

T

ina Seymour Demoran, JD, RRT is the founder and managing attorney of Seymour Law Firm, PLLC, a boutique law firm in Biloxi specializing in estate planning, family law, criminal law, regulatory compliance, probate, real estate and business law. Demoran is also the founder of Professional Expert Consulting, LLC, a full-service business consultation, expert witness, and training agency for legal and medical professionals in Louisiana, Alabama, and Mississippi.

Prior to opening her own firm, Demoran was the Director of Corporate Compliance for a critical access hospital, nursing homes, pharmacy, durable medical equipment company and an aviation repair company; the statewide Director of Corporate Compliance with a behavioral health company; a Cardiopulmonary Specialist; a Director at MC Law, and a member of a criminal defense team in The Hague, Holland.

Demoran is a published author, guest radio host and guest lecturer in Texas and Mississippi and was named a 2016 Mississippi Leading Attorney, the 2009 Young Lawyer of the Year for MC Law, a 2011 Top 40 Under 40, a 2015 Healthcare Hero and a Lighthouse Business Woman of the Year for 2015.

Demoran is also being honored for her pro bono work in September of 2017 by the Mississippi Volunteer Lawyers’ Project of Mississippi.

Steve DeSalvo Mississippi Braves

S

teve DeSalvo, Vice President for the Southern League and General Manager of the Mississippi Braves, has been with the Atlanta Braves’ Double-A affiliate since 1986 and involved in professional baseball since 1981 when he began his career as Assistant General Manager of the Daytona Beach Astros of the Florida State League.

In 1990 and again in 1998, DeSalvo was selected as the Southern League’s Executive of the Year. His peers also honored him in 1997, when he received the “Outstanding Community Service Award” by the Southern League.

In addition, DeSalvo is a member of the Downtown Jackson Rotary Club and was honored by the Pearl Kiwanis Club by being selected as the 2010-11 Kiwanian of the Year. DeSalvo has involved the Mississippi Braves in numbers charitable events throughout the metro area, including having donated more than $500,000 in cash merchandise and tickets.

A lifetime member of the Strathmore’s Who’s Who for Business in the United States, Steve and his wife Bonnie reside in Brandon. They have three children, one of which is married.

10 – 2018 Mississippi’s Top Entrepreneurs

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NOMINEES

Tiffany Franks Crave

T

iffany Franks is the founder of Crave, a dessert café and coffee shop in downtown Tupelo. Prior to opening an award-winning dessert café, Tiffany spent over a decade as a realtor and home renovator. After a successful career in real estate, she circled back to a longtime passion of creating things in the kitchen. This passion, combined with a penchant for hospitality, evolved into Crave. Soon after the first location of Crave was opened, a second location followed and the third is set to open this summer in Oxford.

Franks is involved in numerous organizations in North Mississippi that support local businesses and is also involved in organizations that support the development and growth of women.

Franks is a professional coffee nerd, dessert specialist, and unapologetic food buff. Now that their four children are self-sustaining, Tiffany and her husband Brad spend as much time as they can traveling in the search for great food.

Congratulations

ASHLEY CASEY

on being named as a

2018 TOP ENTREPRENEUR 1620 East Main Street Liberty, MS 39645

601-657-1164 www.msbusiness.com

2018 Mississippi’s Top Entrepreneurs – 11

NOMINEES

Don Glidewell Think Anew

A

native Mississippian, Don Glidewell began his career with one of our nation’s top Fortune 500 companies. Eventually, Don was bitten by the entrepreneurial bug, and after moving to the Jackson area, worked for several years with a large long-term care company. It was there where he found his true passion and in 2007, he founded Think Anew with the objective of providing vital information technology services to the long-term care industry.

During the past decade, Don has built an amazing team that has driven Think Anew into a thriving, nationally-recognized technology company serving long-term care clients. In true entrepreneurial fashion, he has continued to innovate, and Think Anew has developed a range of new products and services which help clients to manage their businesses more efficiently, and most importantly to Don, to improve the quality of care they provide to our elderly. Two years ago, Think Anew expanded operations to a major new facility in Tampa, Fla., and has continued to expand rapidly throughout Florida and other regions. Recently, Think Anew has been nominated as one of Tampa’s Small Businesses of the Year, 2018 and Don has received the prestigious Florida Business Ambassador Award from Gov. Rick Scott.

Don has served on the board for the Better Business Bureau in Jackson, The Mississippi Council for Economic Education and has previously been honored as one of Mississippi’s Top CEO’s by the Mississippi Business Journal. Think Anew is a multiple recipient of Mississippi’s Best Places to Work Award. Think Anew has been selected to be in Microsoft’s Top 5% Global Partner Network and recognized by Inc. Magazine as being one of the Fastest Growing Private Companies in America.

Kia Jones For Brown Girls, Inc.

K

ia Jones is the Founder/Chief Executive Officer of For Brown Girls, Inc. in Jackson. It is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization and state tax-exempt organization in Mississippi. Its mission is to uplift, motivate, and cultivate the minds of women of color in Jackson and surrounding areas. Empowering them to fulfill their dreams and promote positive change in their communities by displaying leadership to our disadvantaged youth. It also provides philanthropy and community service efforts in the Jackson Metropolitan Area.

The main focus is strengthening marginalized communities.

Jones Graduated from Jackson State University in pre-med in 2012 and then earned her Master’s of Public Administration from Belhaven University in 2015.

She is currently working toward a doctorate of public health in epidemiology at Jackson State.

She certified in psychological first aid mental health, HIPAA compliance and is a certified Phlebotomist.

Jones is a member Leadership Greater Jackson, Pi Alpha Alpha Honor Society, American Public Health Association, Mississippi Public Health Association, Society for Public Health Education and the Golden Key National Honor Society, among many more.

12 – 2018 Mississippi’s Top Entrepreneurs

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NOMINEES

Samuel Jones Dr. Samuel Jones Consulting, LLC

D

r. Samuel Jones knows something about leadership and that’s why he created a speaking and coaching company called Life Changing Presentations. He’s been able to transform ‘Probabilities into Possibilities’ his entire life. He understands that facing insurmountable challenges can affect your desire to make an impact in everything you do.

Growing up in a fatherless home and struggling in high school and college with a speech impediment, Jones would later spend a year in Finland playing professional basketball. It was there when he would discover a deeper purpose for his life. After returning to the states, he completed a Master’s degree and Ph.D and as an employee as an assistant basketball coach, Asst. Dean, Dean, and currently Vice President of Student Affairs at Jones County Junior College. He is also an Ordained Minister.

Today, he shares stories, lessons and the type of motivation that sparked his deeper purpose for his work and strategies that has enhanced his performance over the years with organizations of all kinds. Jones delivers more than 75 Life Changing keynotes and seminars each year and he’s the author of 3 books.

CONGRATULATIONS Janet McCarty

on being chosen as a 2018 Top Entrepreneur

Congratulations Justin Turner

on being named as a 2018 Top Entrepreneur

Cotton’s Cafe Dog Treat Bakery

662.380.1463

www.cottonscafe.com

www.msbusiness.com

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2018 Mississippi’s Top Entrepreneurs – 13

NOMINEES

Carla Kirkland Kirkland Group

C

arla Kirkland is founder and CEO of The Kirkland Group.

Having been in education almost 30 years, she provides professional development, technical assistance, and standardized test preparation to school districts. A champion for comprehensive student support, Mrs. Kirkland holds membership in both educational and service groups, and is actively involved in organizations like the Education Industry Association, Jack and Jill of America, Inc., Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and The Links, Inc. This lifelong educator has served as a teacher, curriculum specialist, and mentor. Mrs. Kirkland is co-author of “Praxis Core for Dummies”, “1001 Praxis Core Questions for Dummies” and “Praxis Elementary Education for Dummies”. She facilitates mathematics workshops around the country and resides in Mississippi with her husband.

Karen Kurr No Time 2 Cook

K

aren Kurr is the owner and founder of No Time 2 Cook. She is passionate about food, entrepreneurship and bringing families back to the dinner table. When she isn’t cooking, Karen loves sharing her passion and expertise with others. Invite Karen to speak at your next meeting or conference.

No Time 2 Cook is a certified Woman Owned Business that qualified for low interest loans through the Minority Business Division of the Mississippi Development Authority. Karen shares how she drew upon the resources of numerous state agencies to help No Time 2 Cook become the first USDA small casserole plant in Mississippi and one of few in the deep South. She believes in empowering women to pursue their dreams, and in addition, encouraging them to give back to the communities where they live.

Karen and her sister were raised in Jackson, Mississippi in the 1960’s and 70’s. Their father, a traveling salesman by week, spent weekends on the family farm raising cattle and tending his to grape vineyard. Their mother, a stay-at-home mom, was an excellent Southern cook and a master at gardening. Karen shares stories of her childhood and how early experiences impacted her own attitudes toward family mealtime.

14 – 2018 Mississippi’s Top Entrepreneurs

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NOMINEES

Phil Landers Keller Williams Realty

P

hil Landers is a Mississippian and real estate professional committed to advancing the professionalism of the real estate industry.

He is one of 14 and a member of the Leadership MAR Class of 2012. He is a member of Business Networking International where he was a former President. He also served faithfully as an officer of the Flowood Rotary and as a Deacon of Pinelake Church.

Phil is a real estate investor, designated broker and an Operating Principal and co-owner of the Keller Williams Realty in the greater Jackson, MS area. Phil has been a key driver into developing Keller Williams as a dominate player and an award winning Real Estate Company in the Mississippi Real Estate Market.

Prior to pursuing a career in the Real Estate Industry, Phil retired with a distinguished 27 year career from the largest natural gas company in America at that time. Phil received a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering degree from Mississippi State University and a Masters of Business Administration (MBA) Degree from Louisiana Tech University.

Phil is married to his bride of 38 plus years Marcia and has three children and two grandchildren all who he is devoted to and loves dearly.

Clay Mansell Mansell Media Inc.

C

lay Mansell has owned and operated business across the Tri-County area, one of which, The Clinton Courier, he founded in 2010 after Clinton’s 40-year-old newspaper ceased printing. The Clinton Courier has been highly successful, earning the Small Business of the Year Award for 2012 from the Clinton Chamber of Commerce. Mansell has since founded the Pelahatchie News, Wesson News, Canton News, and most recently the Long Beach Breeze.

In addition to the print business, he started an advertise agency, Mansell Media, in 2012. Mansell Media was born out of the need to help local businesses with their Social Media presence and is now one of the leading social media advertising agencies in the state. He serves on the Boards of the Clinton Chamber of Commerce, Main Street Clinton, the 4C’s and Mississippi Brilla. In addition to his media outlets, Clay also owns a small chain of Twisted Pretzels stores with locations in Northpark Mall and Jackson Medical Mall. Along with the Twisted Stores, he has Brick Street Pops in Clinton, a gourmet Popsicle store founded in 2015. Other business interests include his real estate business, Panda Properties, that consist of a Mobile Home Community and Mini Storage Facility in Raymond.

Clay is married to Amanada Puryear Mansell and they have one daughter, AnnaBelle (9).

www.msbusiness.com

2018 Mississippi’s Top Entrepreneurs – 15

NOMINEES

Janet McCarty Cotton’s Cafe Dog Treat Barkery

O

riginally from Madison and a sixth generation Mississippian, Janet McCarty graduated from the University of Southern Mississippi with a degree in Retail Management. She had no idea how much that decision would help her years later. After college, Janet moved overseas to London and traveled the world.

She has lived her life out loud and chose to bring that experience back home and now lives Oxford. Through a series of trials and difficult experiences, Janet, found the courage to begin again after getting a little one pound puppy she named Cotton. She attended the University of Mississippi where she won the grand prize of $10,000 in the Gillespie Business Plan Competition for a business idea.

The next year she won the grand prize of $10,000 in the Advocare Challenge, a Business Plan Competition. Janet allowed her achievements, education and experiences fuel the launch of Cotton’s Café Dog Treat Barkery, which is currently completing its fourth year in business. Janet has recently begun a successful speaking career and offering hope born of her struggles in life. She has spoken at, among many places, the 2018 TED Talks which she considers an opportunity of a lifetime.

Her dog treat products can be found in Whole Foods Market, Hollywood Feed and other great retailers across the country. Janet lives out in the country near Oxford, MS with Cotton and her other two dogs, Clover and Coconut.

Joni McClain McClain Lodge

J

oni McClain embodies the spirit of Southern hospitality. Soon after graduating from the University of Southern Mississippi, Joni began a fruitful career in marketing and events. In 1990, she opened EventWorks, Inc., a company that specialized in sales promotions and corporate events. Despite the success of her business, Joni wanted a way to utilize her sales, marketing, and special events talents on a national level.

She joined McClain Sonics as the Marketing Director, and spent several years managing the marketing strategies and special events for the company. In 2012, Joni and her husband, Buddy, acquired McClain Lodge. Joni serves as the Owner/President of the lodge and brings her passion for event planning to every aspect of the business.

She is also a member of several different organizations, including the Mississippi Fairgrounds Foundation Board, Keep Mississippi Beautiful Board, and the Board of Directors for the YMCA Reservoir and Flowood branches. Joni and Buddy reside in the Fannin Community and have two daughters, Stefanie Fairly and Mallory McClain, and two grandchildren, Knox and Jane Fairly.

16 – 2018 Mississippi’s Top Entrepreneurs

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NOMINEES

Matthew McLaughlin McLaughlin, PC

M

atthew McLaughlin focuses his practice on corporate and business transactions including advising companies on corporate and commercial finance matters, federal, state and local economic development incentives and non-traditional sources of capital.

His industry experience includes manufacturing, food and beverage, energy, and technology sectors. He has worked with clients on every aspect of the expansion and relocation process, including business organization, real property due diligence, acquisition and development, land use and zoning, financing, tax matters and other state and local regulatory issues.

As an extension of his experience in the food and beverage industry, much of his practice is focused on the alcohol beverage industry, drawing on expertise working with regional craft breweries and craft distilleries.

Matthew advises industry participants throughout the South on business entity formation, ownership structure, startup financing and expansion financing, and files and registers trademarks and protects all forms of intellectual property.

Shannon Arzola, Octavio Arzola, Chuck Kelly Pop Brother’s

O

Chuck, Octavio,

www.msbusiness.com

Shannon

ctavio, a native of Spain, has more than 20plus years in the culinary industry in the U.S. working for MGM, Joe’s Stone Crab, Marriott, and Fresh Hospitality. All of the Pop Brothers pops are his creations. Octavio’s expertise creating extraordinary taste experiences using fruit, cream, spices and herbs, is the reason Pop Brothers has been so successful.

Shannon brings many years of customer service and sales experience to Pop Brothers. Social media, brand marketing, catering, events sales, wholesale sales, and community involvement are her focus with Pop Brothers.

Chuck has more than 30 years of successful business ownership and brand creation. His name is synonymous with award-winning customer service all along the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Chuck brings to Pop Brothers his experience in creating brand awareness and the guidance necessary for the launch of a new concept.

2018 Mississippi’s Top Entrepreneurs – 17

NOMINEES

Elic Purvis The Venue LLC

I

nspired by simplicity in design with an added appreciation for all things old and aesthetic, Elic Purvis’s style is very unique and versatile. Hospitality has always been a passion of his, deeply rooted in the Southern-most caverns of his Mississippi-bred character; and, now he has focused his energy into creating a space specifically designed with hosting in mind. Located in the historic and beautifully renovated Pigford Building in Meridian, The Venue has beautiful views of Downtown Meridian, and the capacity to meet any good host’s qualifications.

Previous to opening The Venue, the Mississippi State graduate did event consultation with Weidman’s in Meridian.

Evelyn Roughton Crown Restaurant

O

ne of Mississippi’s foremost culinary stars can be found in none other than downtown Indianola.

The Crown Restaurant was begun almost 40 years ago, and today, it continues to be the source for both traditional and non-tradition fare. Evelyn Roughton, restaurateur, cookbook author, mail order entrepreneur, and culinary star, was born in Cleveland, Miss., and emphatically says that “the Delta will always be home.” True that may be, but Evelyn and husband Tony spent many years in Europe and other international locales while Tony served his career in the Air Force.

From Evelyn’s perspective, that was a wonderful opportunity to learn about different cultures, and also where she was exposed to continental and French cooking, and that turned out to be a life-altering experience.

“I suppose I was really influenced by Julia Child, as were so many other aspiring chefs,” she said.

They eventually settled in Indianola and have made The Crown one of crown jewels of the Mississippi Delta and the entire state.

18 – 2018 Mississippi’s Top Entrepreneurs

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NOMINEES

Ron Savell Mugshots

W

hile tending bar on Waikiki beach they dreamed of owning their own place. In 2004, with hard work and plenty of support from friends and family, Ron Savell and his friends made their dream a reality. The first Mug Shots opened in Hattiesburg in 2004. Short on cash, but full of gratitude, they showed their thanks by naming appetizers, burgers and menu items after family and friends and decorating the restaurant walls with pictures of customers traveling all over the world showing off their Mugshots memorabilia.

These days there are 18 Mug Shots across the Southeast and Savell is President and CEO of Chers Restaurant Group, which includes all 18 Mugshots in addition to other business interests.

He says his parents are his role models in life. “They were small business owners within the restaurant industry for the first 16 years of my life.

Obviously, this greatly influenced me.”

Savell is married to Caitlin Savell and father to 4 wonderful children, Hailey, Emma, Meg and Duncan.

Taylor Sledge Sledge & Company

T

aylor Sledge had no idea what he wanted to do when he finished college in 2007. Under the mentorship of a great man — his grandfather, C.B. Sledge, Sr. — he was advised to consider opening his own financial firm. With little experience but plenty of enthusiasm, he figured he might as well try it out.

Starting his business at the age of 22 was not easy, but it paid off. He began cultivating business relationships the first day Sledge & Company opened its doors. While the financial business is still the company’s foundation, Sledge broadened the firm’s horizons when he realized that his true passion and gift is the ability to genuinely understand and motivate people and, simply put, to help them solve their problems.

Today, Sledge & Company is making its mark. With two offices in Mississippi and clients in nearly 30 states, it continues to grow. Taylor has been published in USA TODAY, Entrepreneur Magazine, Investment News, the International Business Times, and many others. He was recently named one of the “Top 4 under Forty Financial Advisors in America” by the National Association of Financial Advisors, and is also a Top of The Table member of the Million Dollar Round Table.

Taylor loves Mississippi and is proud to call it home. His hobbies include Hunting, Fishing, Blues Music, Traveling, and Reading. He lives in Jackson, Mississippi with his wife, Dr. Catherine Sledge, and their two sons, Amos and T. Mark. He is a deacon at First Baptist Church of Jackson.

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2018 Mississippi’s Top Entrepreneurs – 19

NOMINEES

Cheli Strumila Coast Observer - The Coupon Concierge - Magnolia L & E

F

ormer casino cocktail waitress Cheli Strumila, saw the need to help promote all the fun and excitement that is the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Thus, the idea of an entertainment publication was born.

Taking on a business she knew nothing about, Strumila learned rom the ground up with no formal training in computers or graphic design. She bought her first computer, got two lessons from a graphic designer and she was off, publishing her first issue in 1999. Strumila is proud to say that her Coast Observer is approaching their 20th year of publishing the leading entertainment publication on the Coast.

And that’s not all: She is the owner of The Coupon Concierge, helping locals and tourists save money as she helps drive traffic to local businesses. In 2009 she co-founded the first high quality in hotel room/vacation condo entertainment and leisure guide, Magnolia Leisure & Entertainment. In 2004, she launched the now infamous Covey Awards which honors the service/tourism/entertainment industry in a special Grammy style ceremony. And this year she founded an All-Female Parading Mardi Gras Krewe, Krewe of Salacia, that mirrors the Krewe of Muses and Krewe of Nyx in New Orleans.

Strumila says she is honored to be named one of Mississippi Business Journal’s Top Entrepreneurs for 2018 as well as being named one of their first Top CEO’s of Mississippi in 2016, and in 2017 she was named LBPW Women of Achievements Woman Entrepreneur of the Year at the Success Women’s Conference.

Trent Townsend Next Step Innovation

L

aunching his own company before the age of 30 was a daunting task for Trent Townsend. But the Chief Executive Officer of Next Step Group takes extreme pride that he’s been able to grow his company to 15 employees, and generated over $10 million in revenue during the 2014 fiscal year alone. In addition to his role as CEO, Townsend serves as engineer/technical support manager and has authored innovative software that helps manage customer relations and HR matters.

Following graduation from Mississippi State University, the Columbus native worked for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at the Engineer Research and Development Center in Vicksburg. A former Eagle Scout, Townsend says marrying his wife and having a son together are his greatest personal accomplishments. Townsend plays the alto saxophone for his church orchestra, and enjoys water sports, hunting and fishing when he has time.

20 – 2018 Mississippi’s Top Entrepreneurs

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NOMINEES

Dr. Justin Turner Turner Care

J

ustin Turner is a physician and the CEO of TurnerCare who specializes in medicine, healthcare, mentoring, tutoring, counseling and motivational speaking.

In 2008, Turner moved back to Jackson from Tennessee after medical school because that’s where he felt he should be living. Turner says that has paid off because has been able to fulfill his wish as a physician to mentor, volunteer and reach his community.

The Natchez native received his undergraduate degree from Jackson State University and his medical degree from Meharry Medical College.

In his professional role, Turner was recently chosen to lead research geared to address health disparities in Mississippi. Along with three others, he presented the findings at a national conference for the American Association of Medical Colleges.

Turner is a former board member for the Mississippi Medical Surgical Association, a member of the American Medical Association and the American College of Physicians.

A member of the New Jerusalem Church, Turner says his hobbies include sports, karaoke, dominoes and spades.

Elizabeth Perry Upchurch Fresh Ink

W

hile a student at the University of Mississippi, Elizabeth Upchurch worked in an Oxford floral shop and ignited her desire for retail.

Today, the Memphis native is the owner of Fresh Ink, considered the premier wedding invitation store in the Jackson area. The business has been named to the “Best of Mississippi” list multiple times and featured in national magazines Southern Living and InStyle Weddings.

Upchurch credits utilizing social media and other cross-marketing platforms for propelling Fresh Ink to its lofty heights. Before launching Fresh Ink, she worked as National Sales Manager for the Inviting Company, a wholesale stationary and gift company.

Upchurch is a member of the Junior League of Jackson and has served as editor of the Junior League newsletter. She has also been a teaching grant evaluator.

Upchurch also volunteers with the Mississippi Children’s Services Home.

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2018 Mississippi’s Top Entrepreneurs – 21

NOMINEES

Hagan Walker Vibe LLC

H

agan Walker graduated from Columbus High School in 2011, before attending Mississippi State University in the fall. During his undergraduate studies, Hagan served at the university as an Alumni Delegate and as the Electrical Team Leader for the EcoCAR2 program. In the summer of 2014, Hagan worked as a hardware engineering intern for dSPACE, Inc. in Wixom, Michigan.

The following summer, he worked for Tesla Motors in Palo Alto, California, as a body controls engineer. After returning from his internship there, Hagan was offered a full-time position at Tesla Motors, which he declined in order to pursue his own company, Vibe, which he co-founded with fellow student, Kaylie Mitchell.

Vibe, created at the Mississippi State University Center for Entrepreneurship and Outreach, which makes a patented product called Glo, a liquid-activated beverage enhancer. Since its founding in 2015 at MSU, Glo has been seen by more than 10 million viewers on social media and has sold over half a million units in 34 countries.

Dewayne Walley TourneyX, LLC

D

ewayne Walley was born in Hattiesburg and grew up in Purvis, but have lived in Madison, MS for the past 25 years. He started developing TourneyX in November 2014 with an idea to make kayak tournament fishing easier. Three years later, TourneyX has continued to grow each year and now has over 15,000 anglers. They practice Catch Photo Release. The angler takes a picture of the fish on a measuring board and uploads the picture to TourneyX where other anglers can watch a live leaderboard during the tournament. The angler then releases the fish back in the water where the fish was caught. This method allows us to hold tournaments while protecting our fishing resources. We have caught and released over 150,000 fish in the past two years.

Walley also work three other jobs. His day job is maintenance technician for a local plastics company. Walley also owns Mississippi Online Ventures, LLC which is a web hosting business, and works as a Regional Pro Staff Manager for Wilderness Systems Kayaks.

22 – 2018 Mississippi’s Top Entrepreneurs

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PHOTOS

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2018 Mississippi’s Top Entrepreneurs – 23

FOCUS ON: LAW & ACCOUNTING

Special to the MBJ

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24 – Mississippi Business Journal

T

he notion of accountants as ‘bean counters’ huddled together in a cramped office crunching numbers and preparing tax returns is an antiquated stereotype.

It certainly doesn’t apply to the Ridgeland office of Carr Riggs & Ingram CPAs and Advisors.

The array of services that CRI and many nationally-known CPA firms offer is growing exponentially. Beyond audits and tax returns, today’s certified public accountants are delving into other areas of the financial world, including business development, estate planning, management consulting, retirement and college planning, and investment counseling.

CRI partner-in-charge Elton Sims says that along with becoming more diversified in its business model, solidifying

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FOCUS ON: LAW & ACCOUNTING client relationships is a ‘job-one’ priority with the firm.

“One thing that distinguishes us (from other CPA firms) is we give critical attention to our clients’ needs,” he said. “The days of just doing tax returns are a thing of the past.”

David McIntosh, CRI’s business development executive, concurred with Sims’ assessment.

“In Mississippi, people expect personal relationships in business. We have the technology to have interactive meetings and we do, but an in-person visit with a client makes a better environment all around,” McIntosh added.

Last October, the firm moved into a sparkling new building just off Steed Road near Highland Colony Parkway.

“In our former location, we had no room and no visibility,” he said. “We have 70 team members now and clients and employees are in a comfortable and more enjoyable setting.”

Headquartered in Enterprise, Alabama, CRI was founded in 1997 and maintains offices in 10 states across the Southeast. With over 1,800 professionals employed, the firm provides a plethora of services, including tax man-

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agement, wealth management strategies and planning estates.

The Ridgeland office remains CRI’s only location in Mississippi.

Recruiting and retaining top-flight talent is a huge issue in the accounting industry, according to the Journal of Accountancy. As business has picked up in public accounting, so has the competition for talent.

“Part of our challenge is getting people that want to be here,” said Larry May, a CRI partner. “If you want to work for a larger firm that has progressive leadership, CRI is a great place.

And, say, if your spouse is transferred to another city out-of-state, we likely have an office in that city where there’s a place for you.

“Having all the resources for both employees and clients is vital to a CPA firm in 2018.”

Sims added that relocating the Ridgeland office to newer and spacious digs brought the firm brand recognition that it hadn’t experienced in the past.

“For a long time we flew under the radar and the move is a benefit to attract the best and the brightest (talent),” he said. “We have areas in the

office that were designed specifically for millennials – even a ‘mother’s room’ for female employees to nurse their children.”

As with most larger CPA firms, CRI is laser-focused on helping clients with the overall success of their business, as opposed to offering only deliverables such as a financial statement or tax return.

The old idea of the CPA as a trusted business advisor has been resurrected, says McIntosh.

“Our clients expect us to be a ‘onestop shop’ and we have that here,” he said. “CRI has experience in data analytics and do lots of work in the automotive and health care industries.

We also have investment banker and merger acquisition groups within the firm.”

Sims believes that despite all the talk about niche-driven trends, certified public accounting boils down to nurturing a strong bond with the client.

“Big data and technology is important, but for our group in Mississippi, it’s about relationships – we are in the relationship business.”

Mississippi Business Journal – 25

FOCUS ON: LAW & ACCOUNTING PROFILE

Attorney Brehm Bell relies on reputation to attract personal injury clients

By BECKY GILLETTE

M

ost personal injury attorneys use large billboards and extensive television advertising to attract clients. Attorney Brehm Bell instead relies on his reputation garnered from 25 years of legal work in the Hancock County area.

“I’m very fortunate in that I don’t have to put up billboards or run ads on TV,” Bell said.

“Most of my clients come from word of mouth. Having grown up in Hancock County and being friends with many people has provided me a great opportunity to help our own citizens. When it comes to trying a case in Han-

cock County, it is important to have someone who grew up here to understand how juries look at cases from our unique Hancock County Bell perspective. I do think that is one of the benefits of my practice. I don’t think there are many personal injury attorneys who grew up here.”

Bell was attracted to the legal profession at an early age when his sixth-grade science teacher, Coach Spence, told Bell he argued about everything.

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26 – Mississippi Business Journal

“The coach told me that I liked to argue about things and I liked to help people,” Bell said. “He explained lawyers get hired to help people do complicated things.

I thought that sounded pretty good. It made life easier because I didn’t have to figure out what I wanted to be later. I started practicing law in 1989. This September it will be 29 years, 25 of those years in Bay St. Louis. I grew up in Pearlington and went to Bay High School, so this is my home.”

Bell, a graduate of the University of Mississippi School of Law, said it is personally satisfying to help people navigate through tough times. His practice is 100 percent focused on personal injury.

“When people are injured and have to navigate through insurance issues, it can get complicated,” Bell said. “They are dealing with a lot of financial and legal issues that they need help with while they are dealing with their injuries. I focus on the claim and law matters while they stay focused on getting well.”

Bell said the secret to success is to treat each client as an individual because every case is unique. “Obviously, there is a lot more to it than that, but that is the big thing,” he said.

Bell said it can be common to have trouble with insurance companies. Even when you are stopped at a stop sign and hit from behind, some insurance companies claim you are partly at fault.

“It is very frustrating to clients to be treated poorly by insurance companies and that generally drives a lot of clients to my office,” Bell said. “I don’t think all insurance companies are bad, but sometimes people get frustrated with the claims process and need help navigating their claim. Attorneys are easy targets for jokes.

But, without them, I truly believe we would have very difficult times. I enjoy the practice of law and feel we do a great service to our community.”

One of the biggest challenges he sees in law today is affordability. The average lawyer in Mississippi charges $200 per hour and

Mississippi has one of the lower rates in the country. The national average is $250 per hour for an attorney’s first year, $350 an hour for up to year 15 and $400 an hour from years 15 to 25.

“It has become very costly and the average person can’t afford to get to court to get their issues resolved,” Bell said. “Fortunately, in personal injury cases, we don’t take money up front. We get paid at the end only if we are successful. Access to an attorney in my field isn’t an issue. But in other fields where people have to hire an attorney, it is very expensive.”

Bell is very active in the community supporting public education and issues regarding children. He served as a youth court judge for 3.5 years and since then has hosted luncheons every four months for charitable organizations that focus on families.

“I host the luncheon so they can communicate with each other about helping families through difficult times,” Bell said.

“It is tough to see families going through addiction and hardship and there is not much out there to help them. So, it is the children who suffer.”

In his free time, Bell enjoys spending time with his wife, Jennifer Bell, and their four children, Austin, Conner, Blake and Daley. He also likes to play golf and is very active in his church, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. He has served in many church callings dealing with adults and youth over the past 40 years, and currently is assisting young men in the Waveland\Bay St. Louis area.

He is a big fan of his hometown.

“I love Bay St. Louis and encourage everyone to come here and visit, and enjoy everything it has to offer,” he said. “I think it is a diamond in the rough. Business has been growing here and more and more people who come to visit express the desire to make Bay. St. Louis their home. We have excellent public and private schools and, more importantly, the people here are what makes the difference.”

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FOCUS ON: LAW & ACCOUNTING

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Mississippi Business Journal â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 27

NEWSMAKERS

Arnemann named new Executive Director

MCBL&F legislature luncheon

Michael B. Arnemann has been named Executive Director of the Mississippi Asphalt Pavement Association (MAPA), announced Clifton L. “Pepper” Beckman, board president, and president of Dunn Roadbuilders.

Arnemann is responsible Arnemann for the promotion and advocacy of the asphalt pavement industry through both the public and private sectors. Among other duties, he will serve as the legislative, congressional and regulatory liaison for the association.

Arnemann began his career with Hancock Bank of Mississippi as a Commercial Credit Analyst then Commercial Lending Officer with Hancock Bank of Louisiana. He served as Finance Director for the Mississippi Republican Party, Assistant to Transportation Commissioner Dick Hall and most recently served as the Government Relations Director for the Mississippi Department of Transportation.

Arnemann is a graduate of the University of Mississippi in Oxford with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree with an emphasis in Banking and Finance, and Real Estate Finance.

Arnemann is a native of New Orleans, where he graduated from Jesuit High School. He and his wife, Natalie, have two children Baker and Lucy.

They reside in Jackson where they attend St. Richard of Chichester Catholic Church.

Sims joins Renasant Bank Donna Sims has joined Renasant Bank as its Starkville Market President. Sims returns to her hometown, and is responsible for building relationships and managing administration in the Starkville area.

Sims is a graduate of Sims Mississippi State University, a graduate of the University of Mississippi’s School of Banking, a graduate of the American Bankers Association’s Consumer and Commercial Lending Schools at the University of Oklahoma and a graduate of the Mississippi Economic Council’s Leadership Mississippi Program.

28 – Mississippi Business Journal

Courtesy of MCBL The Madison County Business League & Foundation recently hosted the 10th annual “League & Legislature” luncheon at the Old Capitol Inn in Jackson. Over 375 MCBL&F Members, Statewide and Countywide elected officials, and Mississippi Legislators were in attendance. Chairman Phil Buffington and MCBL&F Government Affairs Committee Chairman Trey Dellinger shared the 2018 legislative agenda. Governor Phil Bryant was the keynote speaker for the event. Entertaining was Raphael Semmes and his Jazz Ensemble, Pam Confer and Derrick Burt. Pictured are, from left, Jan Collins, Executive director of the MCBL&F, Bryant, Deborah Bryant, and Buffington.

Sims served her community through organizations such as the Greater Jackson Chamber Partnership, having been a Past Chairman, St. Dominic Hospital, where she was Vice Chairman of the Board, the Special Olympics of Mississippi, Go Red for Women for the American Heart Association, the Madison County Community Trust Foundation, the Madison County Business League.

She and her husband, Brian have one son, Wade, who is also a graduate of Mississippi State University, and they attend First United Methodist Church in Starkville.

DeSoto County banker named Regional CEO Donald “Jeff” Frazier, current Central Region President with Southern Bancorp of Little Rock, Ark., has been promoted to Central Region CEO. Frazier began his career at Southern Bancorp in 2010 as a Senior Lender in DeSoto County. In 2013,

he was promoted to Central Region President, a leadership position in which he has worked closely with James “Jimbo” Boyd Jr. to manage operations throughout the region while also growing Southern Bancorp’s lending footprint in North Mississippi.

Frazier Frazier is replacing Boyd of Helena, Ark., who was promoted to Executive Credit Officer.

Prior to joining Southern Bancorp, Frazier worked with several Mississippi financial institutions as well as in a regulatory capacity, having worked for the Comptroller of the Currency as a bank examiner. He is a graduate of the University of Alabama and the Graduate School of Banking of the South at Louisiana State University.

Southern Bancorp has 46 locations in Arkansas and Mississippi

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NEWSMAKERS

Tresvant receives 2018 Chairman’s Award Marion McNeil Tresvant, a 1978 alumna of Tougaloo College, who has contributed more than a million dollars to the institution, was presented the 2018 Chairman’s Award at the 30th Annual Business Luncheon. The award was Tresvant established in 2008 as a way to honor individuals who have exemplified extraordinary leadership in a project or cause to advance the goals of Tougaloo College.

Through her donations, the Perry and Annie Lee McNeil Endowed Scholarship was established.

The scholarship, named for Tresvant’s parents, seeks to enhance success for deserving students and contributes to the advancement of the next generation of leaders and scholars. Additionally, Tresvant donated funds that assisted the College in the purchase of a 56-passenger charter bus to facilitate the transportation needs of athletic programs, concert choir and other ancillary programs.

Tresvant is a biologist, clinical medical scientist, philanthropist, and a marathoner. In 1978, she earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from Tougaloo College. In 1993, she received the Master of Science degree in Business Administration and Supervision from the University of Houston. In 1994, PerryLee Home Health Care, Services, Inc. was established. In 2011, she completed building a corporate office in Stafford, Texas.

Tresvant’s company employs over 450 workers and she has offices throughout Texas. The company contracts with various Houston businesses including the State of Texas, City of Houston Area Agency on Aging, HMO Blue, Blue Cross-Blue Shield, Amerigroup, Evercare and Community Choice.

Tresvant has been inducted into the Tougaloo College Society of Philanthropy and the Tougaloo College National Alumni Association Hall of Fame.

Presley appointed to NARUC’s Gas Committee The National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners has appointed Mississippi Public Service Commission Chair Brandon Presley to serve as co-vice chair of the Committee on Gas. He

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Balch & Bingham adds 7 healthcare attorneys

Kirkland

Simpson

Lowry

Balch & Bingham recently announced the addition of partners Tom Kirkland, Allison Simpson and Andy Lowry, and associates Mary Jordan Fuller, Matt Sitton, Perry Taylor and Bea Tolsdorf to the Jackson office.

This new healthcare team has experience providing counsel to private tax-exempt hospitals, for-profit hospitals, physicians and physician-practice groups, long-term care providers, home health agencies, dialysis facilities, cancer centers, laboratories, hospices, diagnostic facilities and ambulatory surgery centers.

Kirkland has more than 30 years of healthcare experience with healthcare aross the Southeast. Kirkland received his J.D. from the University of Mississippi School of Law. Simpson focuses her practice on addressing healthcare providers’ regulatory issues. She received her J.D. from the University of Mississippi School of Law. Lowry represents clients in appellate litigation, involving certificate of need and reimbursement matters. Lowry received his J.D. from the University of Mississippi School of Law. Fuller focuses her practice on certificate of need, licensure and certification issues for will work alongside North Dakota Commissioner Julie Fedorchak. Commissioner Diane X. Burman of the New York State PSC is chair.

Through panel discussions and educational sessions, the Gas Committee fosters awareness and understanding of issues affecting the transportation, distribution and sale of natural gas safely, efficiently and economically. Committee members work closely with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and the U.S. Department of Energy and Department of Transportation.

Fuller

Sitton

healthcare providers. Fuller received her J.D. from the University of Mississippi School of Law. Sitton focuses his practice on healthcare compliance, the structuring of business transactions, and the defense of healthcare Taylor clients. Sitton received his J.D. from the University of Mississippi School of Law. Perry Taylor, associate, focuses his practice on healthcare litigation and regulatory, licensing and transactional issues related to healthcare. Taylor received his J.D. from Cum- Tolsdorf berland School of Law. Bea Tolsdorf focuses her practice on healthcare regulatory and compliance work.

She previously was a Special Assistant Attorney General to the Mississippi State Department of Health. Tolsdorf received her J.D. from the Mississippi School of Law.

Forbes ranks Hill on list John F. Hill, CFP, was recently named to the Forbes 2018 Best-In-State Wealth Advisors List, which spotlights more than 2,000 top-performing wealth advisors across the country. Hill is founder and Managing Partner of WealthPartners in Ridgeland, Hill is a 1986 graduate of Mississippi State University with a Bachelor of Public Accountancy degree.

Mississippi Business Journal – 29

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