v11n20 - 11th Annual Best of Jackson 2013

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Your Son Is Not a

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January 23 - 29, 2013

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JANUARY

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JACKSONIAN FRAN LEBER

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o handicap sticker can slow down a passionate spirit like Fran Leber, the ultimate go-getter. “I’m one of those people who wouldn’t be happy if I wasn’t busy,” she says. The current vice president of administration for the League of Women Voters of the Jackson area, Leber lobbies for education and policy issues. She’s been a member of the organization since 1969. Born in Rockford, Ill., Leber, 78, grew up in a family that instilled strong moral values. Instead of furthering her career as a player for The Rockford Peaches, an All-American Girls Professional Baseball League that played in the 1940s and early ’50s, the self-proclaimed tomboy decided to attend college at Northern Illinois University to become a physical education teacher. The new teacher married her husband, Thomas, and in 1968, the couple moved to Mississippi with their three sons. The family soon found themselves in the midst of the struggle for integration. “We built a home in a neighborhood that supported public education,” she says. However, many neighbors opposed integration and began sending their children to private schools. Leber actively supported integration; she attended school in Illinois with African Americans in the ’50s. With her children bused to Brown Elementary, she often visited to provide physical activities during recess—the school did not offer physical education classes. “After I encouraged one of my neighbors to

CONTENTS

help out at the school, she says she walked in the school and forgot there were black children,” she says. “They were all just children.” Integration became the catalyst for Leber’s career in public policy. In the 1970s, Leber helped get the Education Reform Act passed. Through the years, she has put women’s issues and good government at the forefront. More recently, Leber fought the voter ID law. “I don’t think it’s necessary,” she says. “It makes it harder for certain groups to vote, not just African Americans … (but also) the disabled and the elderly.” Despite her many areas of concern, education is always crucial. “Education is so important for every individual to be who they are and to develop their potential,” she says. Leber also worked at Mynelle Gardens for 16 years. She loves gardening and sharing tips with a local garden club. “Gardening is my outlet to relax,” she says. She’s also working on her family genealogy. Leber enjoys telling her grandchildren facts about their family, such as her grandmother being the first woman to be a telephone operator. Leber says she remains enthusiastic about her work and keeping up with current events— even a hip replacement can’t stop her. She recalls her response to an irritated legislator demanding to know what paper she reads: “After giving him the long list of papers that I read daily, he didn’t know what to say.” —Christianna Jackson

Cover design by Kristin Brenemen

14 People

These are the folks that make Jackson, well … Jackson. Whether they make music, provide a listening ear, tickle taste buds, beautify the city or just raise hell in general, these are the movers and shakers making names for themselves in our fair city.

28 Urban Living

To those that think there’s nothing to do in Jackson: Think twice. With all the annual events, art galleries, shopping venues, spas, gyms, museums, beauty shops, bookstores and much more, we’ve got your next 52 weekends booked.

35 Food

What can you say about southern food that hasn’t been said before? Apparently a lot, because Jackson restaurants just keep getting better and better. From new healthy eateries to never-change-’em classics, here is the best cuisine in the capital city.

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6 ....................... PUBLISHER’S NOTE 8 ............................................ TALKS 12 .................................. EDITORIAL 12 ................. EDITORIAL CARTOON 13 ...................................... OPINION 14 ...................... BEST OF JACKSON PEOPLE 24 ....................... BEST OF JACKSON COMMUNITY 28 ....................... BEST OF JACKSON URBAN 28 ....................... BEST OF JACKSON FOOD 45 ....................... BEST OF JACKSON NIGHTLIFE 52 ....................... BEST OF JACKSON BEYOND JXN 56 .......................................... FILM 60 ....................................... 8 DAYS 62 ............................... JFP EVENTS 65 ..................................... SPORTS 67 ....................... MUSIC LISTINGS 69 .............................. ASTROLOGY 69 .................................... PUZZLES

COURTESY JULEP/COURTESY STEPHANIE BARNES/COURTESY DJ YOUNG VENOM; COURTESY REPEAT STREET/TOMRAMSEY/WILLIAM PATRICK BUTLER; TRIP BURNS/COURTESY PAN ASIA/TATE K NATIONS

JANUARY 23 - 29, 2012 | VOL. 11 NO. 20

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PUBLISHER’S note

by Todd Stauffer, Publisher

Want a Better Jackson? Work With the Best.

J

ust this morning, as I sat down to write this publisher’s note, we received an interesting “story tip” via our Web contact form from a reader who was lamenting the rumored loss of the Sam’s Club in north Jackson. There may be valid reasons to worry about the Sam’s Club moving to Madison or elsewhere if that’s the plan (we haven’t confirmed it); there’s certainly a tax-base argument that suggests that if we’re going to have these big-box retailers, it’s good for the capital city if they’re located within the city limits. But something the message author wrote surprised me, perhaps because I haven’t been in a Sam’s Club in more than 15 years. I’ve visited Walmart, Sam’s parent, once in that time frame, to buy a frozen pizza when I was staying in a motel on a trip and hadn’t had dinner. I don’t like that company. The line went something like this: We, the loyal Sam’s Club shopper, deserve and expect loyalty from them. How could they do this to us? It’s hard for me to put my response into words. The best I can come up with is—and I say it with love in my heart for the author: What would possibly make you think that Walmart cares? The Walmarts of the world don’t operate on “loyalty.” Not to their customers, not to their employees, not to their communities. And if you don’t believe that, ask yourself if you believe anyone in senior management at Walmart is willing to skip a paycheck to make sure their employees stay employed in recessionary times. Or whether Walmart is willing to keep a store running at a low profit or in a less-than-ideal location just to keep the lights on and the workers working in that area of town. I think you’ll agree with me that the answer is “no.” And you’ll find that, at least for some small, local businesses under certain circumstances, the answer is much more likely to be “yes.”

I know this is America: Business is business, and shareholder value is king. But if you want to talk about “loyalty” in business, then you need to talk about more than price. Watch how the best that Jackson has to offer do it—price, product, service, experience—and a willingness to give back to their community. Welcome to our 11th Annual Best of Jackson issue. What you find in these pages are the results of weeks of voting by Jacksonians this past holiday season to help us determine which local businesses and individual leaders and service providers to

If you want to talk about “loyalty” in business, then you need to talk about more than price. honor this year as the best. We’ve crunched the numbers, hit the streets, researched the winners and taken photos of half the town—and present to you, in these pages, the results of all that work. Not only do I hope you enjoy the “reveal” of the winners and the write-ups by our staff and freelancers, but I hope you’ll find this issue useful. Sock it away on your coffee table or in a desk drawer and use it to discover things you might not know about Jackson. Have you had the best barbecue or best soul food or best vegetarian options? Have you visited the best taqueria or best Asian restaurant? Have you explored the Best Italian, Best Chinese or Best Fried Chicken options? And what about the second place, third

place and “good showing” finalists? You’ve got some dining to do. Beyond our food and drink categories are a wonderful opportunity to celebrate and explore greater Jackson, from the heroes (and rascals) who placed and won in our categories for individuals—Best Business Owner, Best Bartender, Best Visionary, Best Preacher and Best Public Figure—to the organizations that work to make life in Jackson better and more meaningful for all its citizens, including all those on two legs and, in some cases, four! Then there are the things to do: museums, gardens, wedding venues, art galleries, yoga studios. And the people to see: tailors, barbers, beauty shops, dentists, doctors and so many more. We celebrate them all, and encourage you to do the same. Congratulate them when you see them, and if you’re in the market for their services or products, let them know where you found them! While we’ve learned a lot from the Best of Jackson contests we’ve held over the years, and we’ve gotten better at managing the details, there’s no doubt this is a massive endeavor for our staff. In particular, I’d like to recognize Deputy Editor Briana Robinson, who spent the bulk of her holiday break from Millsaps managing the Best of Jackson issue, including making sure everything was counted and accounted for, from assigning the stories and photos to moving them all the way through the production process. Kudos also to Features Editor Kathleen Morrison, who helped manage her first Best of Jackson issue, and News Editor Ronni Mott, who has been involved in a good number of them now. Retired teacher and intern Susan Hogan outdid herself on factchecking and sharing her journalism expertise with younger interns along the way as she trains with us in long-form writing. Advertising Director Kimberly Griffin led an excellent effort on the ad front. Photographer Trip Burns lived through

his first Best-of experience after a great job rounding up and taking photos from throughout the metro. And Executive Assistant Erica Crunkilton directed a multitude of vital tasks, including improving our system for printing the awards for all the finalists and overseeing plans for the big Cirque du Best of Jackson bash this Sunday, coordinated by Ariss King. Best of Jackson is a challenge for our small but capable production staff as well. Inspired by Editor in Chief Donna Ladd’s obsession with the novel “Night Circus,” Kristin Brenemen conceived and executed the look of this year’s Best Of issue, awards, invitations and all of the items that go together to make Best of Jackson week so special each year, while Andrea Thomas took the brunt of the advertising load for this large issue with the same smile on her face and song in her voice that she has pretty much every day of the year. The voting wouldn’t happen without Matt Heindl, who put our electronic ballot into the field this year with many improvements; he builds on work done by Knol Aust, Vince Falconi and Megan Stewart in past years, and we thank them all. Speaking of Matt, he’s been hard at work in a secret laboratory, working on our next, new digital product from the Jackson Free Press. Keep watching for the reveal at bestofjackson.com—we’ll let you know online and in the pages of the JFP when it’s ready for beta testing. Finally, if you’re a finalist in these pages and you haven’t RSVP’ed yet for the Best of Jackson party and awards ceremony, please write us at party@jacksonfreepress.com. If you’re not a finalist, there are only two ways to get into the private party at this point, depending on how quickly the invitation list closes this week—get an invite by being a member of JFPDaily.com, or get invited as the “plus-1” for someone who is. Here’s to the Best!

January 23-29, 2013

CONTRIBUTORS

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Kristin Brenemen

Andrea Thomas

Briana Robinson

Art Director Kristin Brenemen is an otaku with a penchant for dystopianism. She decided to not wear a gorilla suit to the party. Darn. She designed the cover, the Best of Jackson ballot and party invitation, and much of this issue.

Advertising Designer Andrea Thomas is a native of Ridgeland and is an Antonelli College graduate. She loves to sing, dance and write poetry in her free time. She designed many of the ads in this issue.

Deputy Editor Briana Robinson’s hobbies include photography, ballet and ballroom dancing. She is a junior at Millsaps College. She coordinated and wrote for the Best of Jackson issue.

Kathleen M. Mitchell ShaWanda Jacome Kathleen M. Mitchell thinks the best things about Jackson are the restaurants, Millsaps College, Brian Mitchell, her pets, the art museum and the weather in October. She wrote for Best of Jackson.

ShaWanda Jacome is an elementary librarian in JPS. She lives in Ridgeland with her husband and son, Michael and Mateo. “May the odds be ever in your favor.” She wrote for Best of Jackson.

LaShanda Phillips

Micah Smith

Susan Hogan

Freelance writer LaShanda Phillips is a recent graduate of Jackson State University. She is the third oldest of seven children. She wrote for Best of Jackson.

Micah Smith is a senior at Mississippi College, a Jackson-based songwriter, an avid music listener and reviewer. He prides himself on being the very best, like no one ever was. He wrote for Best of Jackson.

Susan Hogan, JFP editorial intern, is the wife of an amazing musician; mother of three talented kids; retired teacher of math, journalism, STEM; and seeker of truth from Gulfport. She was a factchecking machine for Best of Jackson.

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jacksonfreepress.com

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Thursday, Jan. 17 Sen. Briggs Hobson introduces the Mississippi Uniform Smoke-Free Public Place Act of 2013, which bans smoking in most public places. ‌ Mississippi lawmakers hold a brief memorial service at the Capitol for Rep. David Gibbs, who died of cancer Jan. 13 at age 76. Friday, Jan. 18 Lawyers for five people charged with helping teachers cheat on qualification exams say their clients plan to change their pleas from not guilty. ‌ The Chinese government continues efforts to stifle Tibetan self-immolation protests with arrests and confiscations of supporters’ TVs and satellite dishes. Saturday, Jan. 19 Algerian troops assault a natural-gas plant where al-Qaeda militants captured over 60 foreign hostages. ‌ Police in Albuquerque, N.M., discover a couple and three of their children dead of multiple gunshot wounds. Authorities arrest the couple’s 15-year-old son for the crime.

January 23 - 29, 2013

Monday, Jan. 21 Secretary of State Delbert Hosemann works to stop a legislative push to allow for “sweetheartâ€? leases of 16th Section land, which support public schools. ‌ President Barack Obama is publicly sworn in for his second term.

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Tuesday, Jan. 22 Jackson State University announces an 8,600-square-foot campus in Madison as early as summer. ‌ The Mississippi house passes a charter-school bill out of committee. Get news updates at jfpdaily.com.

by Jacob D. Fuller

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ast Friday afternoon, all Craig KinKinsley and his team presented Audi- Mikel Mangipano and Chelsea Thomas, all sley had was an idea for a new mo- Tour, an idea for a mobile app that provides said they’d like to continue to work on the bile app. By Sunday night, the idea audio tours of locations all around the city, company in the future. had a six-person development team, based on the listener’s GPS location. KinsCharles “Bubba� Weir, vice president a Facebook page, a mockup website and a ley, a Jackson native who recently moved for innovation resources development at first-place prize at Startup Innovate Mississippi, said Weekend Jackson. Sunday that a few companies The Else Business may come out of the weekSchool at Millsaps College end, but participants had alhosted the 54-hour event, ready achieved the real goal which brought more than of Startup Weekend: face-to70 entrepreneurs together face networking with other to pitch their new business creative entrepreneurs. ideas and develop the best of “That’s what it’s all the bunch. about,� Weir said. Startup Weekend, an Marion Desmazieres, international organization a former Startup Weekend that sets up events around New York winner, travels and the globe throughout the leads Startup Weekend events year. Innovate Mississippi around the world. She said organized the weekend, and Startup Weekend does help (From left) John Dolan, Mikel Mangipano, Chelsea Thomas, Bryan Tenort, Craig Kinsley and Valerie Blakey created Startup Weekend’s the Jackson Free Press was launch successful businesses. winning pitch: AudiTour. a sponsor. About 11 percent of Startup “(Startup Weekend) Weekend top 10 ideas behas really pushed for local, grass-roots ef- back when his mother was diagnosed with come businesses that continue past the first forts in creating businesses and pushing cancer, told the Jackson Free Press that he year, and some of those have become quite for entrepreneurial opportunities,� Tiffany wasn’t surprised Auditour won. He said he successful, including FoodSpotting and Langlinais, event organizer with Innovate has received great feedback on the idea for Zaarly.com. Mississippi told the Jackson Free Press. about a year. The second-place prize for the weekLanglinais and organizers gave each “I used to live in San Francisco. It’s end went to The Closet Cloud. Will Trapp, participant a chance to pitch their ideas the hotbed of startups,� Kinsley said. “This a University of Mississippi student, came Friday night. Afterward, participants chose (idea) was one of these things where all up with the idea for an online consigntheir three favorite ideas. The top 10 vote of my friends that were in tech were like, ment-style clothes shop. By Sunday night, getters then had the rest of the weekend to ‘That’s amazing, (but) I’m busy.’� Trapp and his team—fellow Ole Miss studevelop their ideas along with any other parThe AudiTour team, made up of dents Ross Waycaster and Darrius Taylor ticipants who wanted to join their team. Valerie Blakey, John Dolan, Bryan Tenort, and alumnus Russell Adams—had a

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Sunday, Jan. 20 The Baltimore Ravens beat the New England Patriots for the AFC Championship, and the San Francisco 49ers outscore the Atlanta Falcons for the NFC Championship. ‌ President Barack Obama takes the official oath of office at the White House.

AudiTour Wins Gold at Startup Weekend

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Wednesday, Jan. 16 The state Department of Health conducts an unannounced inspection of the Jackson Women’s Health Organization, Mississippi’s only abortion clinic, to determine if it is compliant with the 2012 admitting privileges law. ‌ President Barack Obama unveils plans to reduce gun violence that includes proposed bans on military-style assault weapons.

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website, theclosetcloud.com. Though it’s not yet a fully functioning site, their pitch impressed the judges. “I’m ready to upload my closet immediately,� said Nathan McNeill, Startup Weekend judge and chief strategy officer at Bomgar Corp. What sets The Closet Cloud apart from online shops like eBay, Trapp said, is that it will allow sellers to show off their entire closet, including the stuff that’s not for sale, and allow users to follow certain sellers, “like� their posts and even make offers for items not listed as for sale. While most of the presentations featured mobile apps, websites or marketing companies, Home Fuel Station took third

place overall, and participants voted its product the “Most Likely to Raise Capital� award. Natural gas-powered vehicles, or NGVs, are part of a fast-growing market in the United States, idea presenter Kelly Warnock said. Honda already has the Civic GX, a car that runs on compressed natural gas, on the U.S. market. Other major manufacturers, including Ford and Toyota, plan to introduce natural gas-powered vehicles in the U.S. later this year, Home Fuel Station team member Nathan Cox said. Drivers are having trouble finding fueling stations for the cars, though, Warnock said. The Alternative Fuels Data Center at the U.S. Department of Energy reports only 558 such stations in the country and just one

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in Mississippi: NGV Solutions on Lakeland Drive in Flowood. Warnock’s idea is to manufacture and sell a device that would allow NGV owners to fill up their tanks at home. About 62 million U.S. homes have natural gas heat, according to the American Gas Association. That’s about 56 percent of U.S. households. If Home Fuel Station is successful, its device will allow customers to use their home natural gas connection to fuel their vehicles while they sleep. “You drive in your garage, you plug it in, you go in the house, you’re done,� Warnock said. “In the morning, you unplug it, and you’ve filled your tank.� The advantages come in both dollars

saved and cleaner air, Warnock said. When compared to the equivalent in gasoline, natural gas is much cheaper. About 125 cubic feet of natural gas can equal the fuel capabilities of gallon of gasoline. The U.S. Energy Information Administration reports that from May through October 2012, the latest that data is available, the average cost of 125 cubic feet of natural gas for residential consumers was $1.76. “We all would love to be able to fuel our car for $1.50 a gallon. We’ve got a product that not only lets you do that, but it lets you drive the car with lower greenhouse emissions,� Warnock said. Comment at www.jfp.ms. Email Jacob D. Fuller at jacob@jacksonfreepress.com.

pared to the national unemployment rate of 7.8 percent, post-9/11 veterans had a December unemployment rate of 10.8 percent, up from 10 percent in November 2012, the Army Times reported earlier this month. “It is imperative that we take time to honor the service and sacrifices made by our state’s servicemen and servicewomen and their families. It is especially important for us to provide jobs for the state’s veterans,� Bryant said during a Capitol press conference. More than 28,000 Mississippi soldiers have served since the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks. In signing a proclamation to make 2013 the year to hire Mississippi veterans, Bryant also announced a Mississippi Department of Employment SecuSen. David Blount, a Jackson Democrat, said expanding rity program to post jobs, screen charter schools would not transform public education applicants and refer veterans to in Mississippi because very few students would benefit employers at no cost. from charters. Bryant also proposed who would reap any benefit from going to legislation that would put professional license charter schools was one of the reasons he transfers for spouses of returning veterans on voted against the measure. a fast track. Federal law also gives employers “Don’t tell us that you’re transforming who hire out-of-work veterans tax credits of education in the state of Mississippi with a up to $9,600. bill that affects 1 percent of the children in The day before Bryant issued his procMississippi, because you’re not,� Blount lamation, Walmart announced the company said. would hire up to 100,000 returning vets in the next five years. Bryant on Defense Gov. Phil Bryant is saluting Mississippi SNL Takes Aim soldiers, who often have a difficult time findGov. Bryant spent a lot of time shooting work when they return from war. Com- ing his mouth off about guns last week.

Most notably, Bryant’s statement that criminals would circumvent gun laws by buying weapons from the “Soviet Union� became an Internet punch line because the USSR broke apart in 1991. Despite indicating the existence of a state that failed more than two decades ago, Bryant made it clear that he doesn’t want Mississippi to recognize the authority of our own federal government. Before President Obama officially released his recommendations for a new round of gun restrictions that include renewing the ban on assault weapons and high-capacity magazines, and tighter background checks, Bryant asked lawmakers to draft legislation to defy federal law. The result was a bill from Rep. Chris Brown, R-Aberdeen, titled the Mississippi Firearms Freedom Act, which exempts federal regulation of Mississippi’s robust intrastate gun industry. Ironically, the bill itself places limits on gun ownership. According to the bill, the law would not apply to firearms that require more than one person to carry and use, have a bore diameter bigger than 1.5 inches or a gun that shoots two or more bullets with one trigger pull. As a result, the writers at Saturday Night Live had a little fun at Mississippi’s expense over the weekend, questioning whether the Mississippi Legislature had the authority to override federal law since the body is comprised, according to Weekend Update anchor Seth Meyers, of “just 30 hissing possums in a barn.� Comment at www.jfp.ms. Contact R.L. Nave at rlnave@jacksonfreepress.com.

LEGISLATURE: Week 2

Powerhouse tend a charter school, and the per-pupil government funding would follow the student to the charter school. Republicans have tried to allay concerns about the proliferation of charter schools by saying that few students will wind up going to charters. Sen. David Blount, D-Jackson, said the “infinitesimal numbers� of students

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ississippi Republicans in the Legislature have said they want to ram charter-school legislation through as quickly as possible, and so far they’re on track to accomplish just that. The House and Senate each passed their own versions of a charter-school expansion bill with lightning speed in the past week. As of press time Tuesday, the full House had not taken up the measure. When it does, it will be the first time the House has debated charter schools. In debating the Senate bill, Hob Bryan, D-Amory, quipped that he debated offering an amendment to change every instance of charter school to “council school,� referring to private all-white academies that the racist Citizens Council established in the 1960s and ’70s so their kids would not have to attend integrated schools. “What happens to the students in the public schools that don’t go to the charter schools? They’re isolated, not by their choosing but by the exodus of everyone else from the public schools,� Bryan said. The Senate version, SB 2189, allows charter schools across the state. In A- and Brated school districts, an organization seeking a charter would need approval from the local school board. In C, D and F school districts, the charter school could bypass the local board and go straight to the authorizer, made up of appointees by the governor, lieutenant governor and state public-school superintendent. Under the provisions of the legislation, students can cross school-district lines to at-

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by R.L. Nave

9

TALK | politics

Senate 28: Meet the Candidates by R.L. Nave

January 23 - 29, 2013

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JAMES STEWART, funeral home owner Charter schools are public enemy No. 1 for James Stewart. “My main emphasis is trying to stop this charter-school bill from becoming law,” he said, adding that even though he has thoughts on how to hold up the bill that the Senate passed but is being held on a motion to reconsider, he doesn’t want to tip his hand. “It’s strategy, and I don’t really need the public to know about it.” Charter schools do not provide equal access to quality education because only a small segment of the school population could attend them, Stewart told the Jackson Free Press. “What you’re doing is taking from the public-school system and creating another school system. I don’t see how that is going to make school kids, the citizens of tomorrow, into a productive society,” he said.

TOMMY WALLACE II, lobbyist Tommy Wallace wants to take Jackson on a roller coaster ride of sorts. Wallace, the son of former state Rep. Tom Wallace, DJackson, said he would like the state to relocate the zoo from west Jackson closer to the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science and Mississippi Children’s Museum, and then add a few rides. “Now, you have yourself a theme park,” he said. “That would make Jackson a destination and not just a pass-through city. We have a lot of traffic coming through our city. We have to make them stay and make them stop.” Wallace, who works as a lobbyist with his father and sells real estate, also believes he has strong enough relationships with state senators to hit the ground running. In addition to his zoo idea, Wallace would like to compel the state to compensate the city of Jackson for taking up real estate and using the city’s infrastructure through a system called payment in lieu of taxes. As a Realtor, Wallace has a unique perspective on how Medicaid expansion can help Jackson. “One of the main things that keeps people from being able to obtain wealth and being able to have home ownership is hospital bills,” he said. Insuring more people

through the state’s Medicaid program could help curb some of these bills, which would enable more people to buy homes in Jackson, adding to the city and state’s tax bases. Although he would not have voted for the Senate charter-school bill, Wallace would like to see some of the elements of the charterschool legislation, such as reduced studentteacher ratios, implemented in traditional public schools. Wallace added he would also vote against any measure to further restrict abortion access in Mississippi, including two bills—a fetal heartbeat bill and a constitutional amendment defining life as beginning at conception—now under consideration at the Capitol. “That’s something the government should let a woman decide on,” he said. ANTONIO PORTER, professional campaigner “I thought it was nice for the city to take up some of the space at Metrocenter, but we need businesses to come to Metrocenter. And we need to have residents patronize whatever businesses come there,” said Antonio Porter, who lives near the mall in the Wingfield neighborhood. Porter is a former counselor who said his focus is on the Senate race. If he is unsuccessful in his bid, he said he could go back to working in the medical field. Part of the solution to attracting new business to the west-central Jackson Senate district is to demonstrate the area is safe, he said. Porter said Ward 6 Councilman Tony Yarber and other officials ignore crime in the area. In 2009, Porter faced off against Yarber for the Ward 6 seat, but lost. Porter also ran unsuccessfully for circuit clerk in 2007 and 2011. A gun owner, Porter said he has a problem gun control efforts, such as those President Obama recently proposed that would ban some styles of weapons and large-capacity magazines. “I think we need to make sure we’re not hurting the law-abiding citizens who want to stockpile (weapons),” he said. When asked if he supported Gov. Phil Bryant’s proposal to defy federal gun enforcement regulations, Porter said he would reserve commenting until he read the full bill. If elected to the state Senate, Porter said he wants to fully fund MAEP and expand Medicaid because he does not want people to have to “choose between eating, paying their bills and paying for their medicine.” Comment at www.jfp.ms. Email R.L. Nave at rlnave@jacksonfreepress.com.

RL NAVE

COURTESY JAMES STEWART

Not only does he want to fully fund the Mississippi Adequate Education Program, he believes the Legislature should put more money into MAEP than even the baseline calls for, because our children will compete in a global workforce. Stewart, whose family is in the funeralhome business, wants to be a voice for Jackson State University and the Jackson Zoo, which lie within the district, and work with the city to improve vacant lots and abandoned property in west-central Jackson. Promoting the zoo would mean an infusion in economic activity, he said. Revitalizing U.S. Highway 80 is an area of especial interest, but he wouldn’t say why because he doesn’t want other candidates to steal his ideas. “I would like to bring economic development there, and I have specific ideas on how to do that which I really don’t want to get (into) in this conversation,” he said.

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MARSHAND CRISLER, college administrator Marshand Crisler, director of adult education at Hinds Community College, is already well known to a lot of Jacksonians as a former Jackson City Council president who ran for mayor in 2009. He believes his experience holding public office will enable him to hit the ground running. Fully funding public education according to Mississippi Adequate Education Program formula could help lower Mississippi’s 1-to-27 teacher-student ratio (the national average is 1-to-16), and help pay the state’s teachers more inviting wages, he said. “I certainly think that none of us could do any of the things we do without teachers,” Crisler said. “I know we say that all the time, but the way we compensate them says something differently.” In terms of economic development, he’s excited that the city is breathing new life into Metrocenter Mall by moving some offices there, but would like to see more retailers in the mall, which would contribute to Jackson’s tax base. Crisler likes the idea of a local option sales tax, a temporary levy that would let cities fund certain capital improvement projects if a majority of the citizens approve the tax. Improving Jackson’s crumbling roads and water system would help attract new businesses to Jackson and encourage businesses already operating in the city to hang around. He posits: “Who would leave a city that has great infrastructure, that’s safe and is well-educated? Nobody.”

SOLLIE NORWOOD, real estate broker Former Jackson Public Schools board member Sollie Norwood wants to spend his time in the Senate encouraging parental involvement by fining parents who miss parent-teacher conferences. “We should hold parents accountable and not let them lackadaisically not go (to conferences),” Norwood said. Norwood said he would not have voted for the Senate charter-school bill. “You’re going to further diminish the public schools because everyone isn’t going to be fortunate enough to go to a charter school,” he said. “We have many successful students that have come from public schools.” Gov. Phil Bryant’s plan to introduce a merit pay system to give teachers raises based how well their students perform on tests “leaves too much room for subjectivity,” Norwood said. He would not back the plan. Norwood would fight Bryant’s attempt to halt expansion of Medicaid, and said the state could shift spending priorities to accommodate adding 330,00 more people to the rolls. Budget experts predict that expanding Medicaid would create up to 9,000 jobs. Calling expanded health-care coverage a sanctity-of-life issue, Norwood said: “We have people who are literally dying every day because of lack of health care. A person shouldn’t have to worry about whether they’ve got food (or health insurance). This is America. I don’t think that’s something we should have to worry about.”

COURTESY SOLLIE NORWOOD

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o far, each of the candidates Senate District 28 special election scheduled for Feb. 5 wants full funding for public education, opposes charter schools, supports Medicaid expansion and sees continued development along the Highway 80 corridor as key to job growth. Whoever fills the seat that became vacant with the death of Sen. Alice Harden in December will have missed a third of this year’s legislative session by the time he or she takes the oath early next month. Already, the constituents in the 28th District have missed out on having their voices heard on the controversial charter-school proposal, which the Senate passed last week. Last week, we profiled four women who are seeking the seat (see “Meet the Candidates,” R.L. Nave, Jan. 22). Here are the remaining candidates:

TALK | education

Big Questions About Charters by Ronni Mott

ostensibly addresses human trafficking, revokes business licenses of people found guilty of trafficking. Bill Chandler, executive director of the Mississippi Immigrant Rights Alliance, said HB 198 could effect organizations such as MIRA that helps immigrants. “It’s ridiculous that the Legislature here is still introducing anti-immigrant legislation,” Chandler said. Abortion is also back on the table. This week, Gov. Phil Bryant called for stricter

children with disabilities—those children are being dramatically left behind.” Mississippi should learn from the mistakes Louisiana made, she said, one of which is the system’s structure. New Orleans now has multiple school districts under its charter setup, each of which operates autonomously. That requires duplication of resources, from food contracting to psychologists, leading to a high level of inefficiency. The SPLC—which is suing the Louisiana Department of Education on behalf of New Orleans parents— has also seen cases where Rep. Alyce Clarke, D-Jackson, moderated a forum about kids are discouraged from education at the state Capitol Jan 17. attending some schools or have been pushed out of senior staff attorney with the Southern Pover- schools because of their disabilities or “generty Law Center, echoed Dollar’s and Troupe’s ally being undesirable students.” concerns when she described how the charPublic-interest lobbyist Pam Shaw ter schools in New Orleans, La., have largely advocated for non-political oversight of failed students with special needs. New Or- Mississippi’s charter schools. Specifically, she leans instituted charters after the levees broke believes the Institutions of Higher Learning, in the wake of Hurricane Katrina in 2005, not the Department of Education, should be leaving much of the city devastated. With the authorizing agent for charters. “It should one of the worst school systems pre-Katrina, be a research-based organization that everyshe said, the school had nowhere to go but one agrees is non-partisan,” she said. up, but the system only works for some. Shaw also wants to see a detailed fiscal “Children in New Orleans who are impact analysis for any district considering intelligent, who are well-resourced—and by charter schools, which should be made pubwell-resourced I mean they have an involved lic information before a charter is granted. family and parents, they have access to tech- Charter opponents cite evidence that charnology at home—those folks have been able ters siphon much-needed funds from public to navigate the system, and they’ve done schools leaving them financially unstable. well,” Heilman said. “What we’ve also seen, “The Mississippi Legislature has not though, is that those children who are the kept its commitment,” regarding fundmost costly and difficult to educate—those ing public schools, said Sen. David Jordan, children who don’t have involved families, D-Greenwood. The Mississippi Adequate Education Program, or MAEP, the formula that provides additional funds for the state’s poorer school districts, has a $1 billion deficit because the lawmakers have not fully funded the formula for eight of the 10 years the formula has been law, he said. “Here we are going to a new model where we actually split the resources that we Activists rallied in support of Mississippi’s abortion clinic. have when we haven’t done an adequate job regulations on the abortion Women’s Health Organizawith a single (model),” he said. Jordan cited drug, RU-486. Lawmakers tion, which is fighting to reinstances where public schools have worked have already submitted two main open. Clinic supportwell to educate children. “All this stuff about anti-abortion measures, a fetal ers called on state lawmakers public education not working is not so. … heartbeat bill and a constitu- to stop erecting obstacles to There are too many unanswered questions tional amendment to define abortion in Mississippi. about charter schools,” he said. life as starting at conception. “I’m sick and tired of Only about 17 percent of charter This week, activists from legislators trying to take schools have been successful, added Rep. both pro-life and pro-choice rights away,” said Cristen Alyce Clark, who moderated the forum. “Let communities staged demon- Hemmins, an Oxford-based us look at what we’re thinking about doing,” strations on the anniversary activist, at a JWHO press so that we don’t go backward, she said. of Roe v. Wade at the Jackson conference Tuesday. Comment at www.jfp.ms. Email Ronni 11 Mott at ronni@jacksonfreepress.com.

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s contentious as charter schools are, battle lines on other perennial wedge issues are also forming. Rep. Becky Currie, RBrookhaven, has three bills that immigrations-rights activists find worrisome. One, HB 67, imposes more stringent business regulations under the state’s e-Verify law while HB 321 requires cops to take photos of people who are stopped without a valid driver’s license. Finally, HB 198, which

by R.L. Nave

families and educators of children with disabilities have not been at the table,” in the state’s charter-school discussions. Eden Heilman, a New Orleans-based

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and advocates on the six-person panel. “For far too many children, education, which is supposed to be the ticket out, does not work as well as it needs to,” said Kenneth L. Campbell, president of the Black Alliance for Educational Options. “… Unfortunately, none of us has the solutions on how to fix it. There is no magic pill that you can take.” Closing the educational achievement gap between white and black students, which Campbell said has stalled at 20 percent to 30 percent for decades, is key to addressing the crisis. “We’ve made very little progress in closing this gap,” he said. “We have set up a system that cannot do what we want it to do at this particular time,” he said, referencing a “two-tiered” education system, where those with money, power and influence have choices others don’t have. People with means can send their children to private schools, for example. Campbell believes Mississippi should see charter schools as one method to provide choice to parents who don’t have them now. But, he said, they won’t solve all of the problems in education. Two speakers brought up concerns about how charter schools would work for children with disabilities. Pam Dollar, executive director of the Coalition for Citizens with Disabilities, cited two studies that showed charter schools have a lower percentage of disabled children than public schools. Resources to care for those children are vital, she said, to not go back to a system where disabled kids are excluded from educational opportunities with their able-bodied peers. “We don’t want to go back to a system of segregation,” Dollar said. Mary Troupe, director of the Coalition for Citizens with Disabilities, agreed. “We really have some concerns,” she said, accountability and transparency among them. “Individuals with disabilities, their

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he atmosphere at the Mississippi Capitol got tense for a few moments Thursday when Sen. Kenneth Wayne Jones, D-Canton, leader of the Legislative Black Caucus, questioned the legitimacy of Gov. Phil Bryant’s education policy recommendations. Lucien Smith, the governor’s deputy chief of staff, outlined Bryant’s package of suggested reforms during the Democratic Public Policy Forum on Education, co-hosted by the Mississippi Democratic Trust and the Legislative Black Caucus. Those reforms include how students should be promoted, scholarships and performance-based compensation aimed at producing better teachers, $3 million for early childhood education, and school choice, including vouchers and charter schools. “We’ve been asking for health and education reform for a long time,” Jones said. “So when did white conservatives start getting so adamant about educating African American children and, in the same breath, deny health care? You can be smart, but if you get sick, you’re going to die? That makes us not trust the process itself.” Smith said he understood the skepticism given the state’s history. “We view this as the single largest economic development and quality-of-life issue in our state, and there’s a huge population—white and black—that we’re failing,” he said. “… We want to do it because we want every Mississippian to have a better life and have opportunities that the current system denies them.” Jones wasn’t the only one skeptical of the charter-school bill under debate in the Legislature. The state Senate has already approved a bill revamping the state’s charter-school laws, and it’s likely to pass the House, soon. Charter schools, which are privately run but funded by public tax dollars, had detractors

You Bet I Love Jackson by Reynolds Boykin

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’m a hometown boy who fell in love with a hometown girl and, thanks to Craig Noone’s big dreams for Jackson, I’m living my dream in my hometown. I grew up knowing I wanted to cook and believing that meant I would end up somewhere other than Jackson. After cooking my way through college, I packed my knives, headed to New Orleans and started cooking for Cochon and two of the best chefs in the country, Donald Link and Stephen Stryjewski. New Orleans offered everything an aspiring chef would want, but it wasn’t home. Home was Jackson and the people I love most, my family. Jackson was also home to another who left home to cook and returned with a commitment to make Jackson the country’s next great, small food city—Craig Noone. Jackson was already a small city with great food and great food people who welcomed the opportunity to work together. I was beyond excited to join the movement when Craig asked me to come home and cook for Parlor Market. I will love Jackson even more when streets are lined with shops and restaurants, sidewalks are filled with people attracted to city, and you can hear the music from Farish Street while enjoying a fine dinner at Parlor Market. PMCN. BBE. (Parlor Market Craig Noone. Best Boss Ever.) Hometown boy Reynolds Boykin is living his dream as sous chef at downtown Jackson’s Parlor Market and is among those keeping Craig Noone’s dream alive.

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will read a lot about innovation, teamwork and building alliances—as well as about a number of candidates wanting to represents parts of the city in the state Senate. In the decade we have published the Jackson Free Press and now BOOM Jackson magazine, we’ve watched the city come a long way on the think-positive front. When the JFP first launched in 2002—with the city’s first Best of Jackson ballot in our very first issue—we were determined to tell true stories about a metropolitan area steeped in negativity and division and in which perceptions about out-of-control crime were spread by people claiming to have the city’s best interests at heart. We came out of the gate swinging about two things: (1) the city’s need to challenge dumb negative perceptions and (2) city residents’ need to really question its leaders, not in a destructive political way but with the goal of helping them serve us better. Helped along by the results of a disastrous mayoral term—Frank Melton, of course—the city has really started to come together against division and to stand up for itself. When we launched, we saw young people leaving the city in droves; now we watch them stay, or leave and come back after they can’t quite find the same mix of delightful people and world-changing potential in the great yonder. We’ve chronicled so many positive changes, and every week for going on 11 years, we’ve written stories about below-the-radar people doing amazing things in the city and its suburbs—that’s hundreds of Jacksonian profiles along with dishes, JFP interviews, Best of Jackson blurbs, features and so

anoint five days a week at jfpdaily.com. (Subscribe free for breaking news and cool event and party invites, like future Best of Jackson parties.) This doesn’t mean we pull needed punches or fail to ask questions that need to be asked. Anyone who reads the JFP knows that. But we don’t ask questions and expose corruption in order to beat anyone, or the city, up. We don’t do any journalism to sing the praises of one political candidate over the other or tear down anyone. We report—on the positive and the problems—to make the city better. We urge our readers to do, and demand, the same. In a city where few difficult questions have traditionally been asked by any media outlet, we all need to ask many questions. We need to demand facts, insist on transparency, study campaign finance reports and demand high standards from each other and our elected officials. But that doesn’t mean we get offended because someone disagrees. Think of Abraham Lincoln and his “team of rivals.� Lincoln surrounded himself with people who could, and would, challenge his thinking and ideas—not people bent on tearing him down. As a result, ultimately, slavery ended. We can do big things, too—not by tearing down good efforts, but by getting involved to help fix them and, thus, our city. Ignore those who play negative politics over every issue (especially crime) and elect people who tell us what they will do better, and who show they can build uncomfortable alliances—not just shoot down their opponents. And you? Be the change we want to see. Be the best and demand the same. We’ve got this, Jackson.

Email letters and rants to letters@jacksonfreepress.com, fax to 601-510-9019 or mail to P.O. Box 5067, Jackson, Miss., 39296. Include daytime phone number. Letters may be edited for length and clarity, as well as factchecked.

MAYOR HARVEY JOHNSON JR. #HEAP 4RASH #OLLECTION

Editor-in-Chief Donna Ladd Publisher Todd Stauffer EDITORIAL News Editor Ronni Mott Features Editor Kathleen Morrison Mitchell Reporters Jacob Fuller, R.L. Nave Events Editor Latasha Willis Deputy Editor Briana Robinson Copy Editors Dustin Cardon, Molly Lehmuller Music Listings Editor Natalie Long Fashion Stylist Meredith Sullivan Writers Torsheta Bowen, Ross Cabell Marika Cackett, Richard Coupe, Jim Pathfinder Ewing, Bryan Flynn, Genevieve Legacy, Anita Modak-Truran, Larry Morrisey, Eddie Outlaw, Julie Skipper, Kelly Bryan Smith Editorial Interns Susan Hogan, Damian Kelly, Octavia Thurman, Mo Wilson Consulting Editor JoAnne Prichard Morris ART AND PHOTOGRAPHY Art Director Kristin Brenemen Advertising Designer Andrea Thomas Production Designer Latasha Willis Staff Photographer/Videographer Trip Burns Editorial Cartoonist Mike Day Photographers William Patrick Butler, Tate K. Nations, Amile Wilson Graphic Design Interns Kira Cummings, Ariss King, Melvin Thigpen ADVERTISING SALES Sales Director Kimberly Griffin Advertising Coordinator Monique Davis Account Executive Stephanie Bowering Marketing Assistant Samantha Towers BUSINESS AND OPERATIONS Executive Assistant Erica Crunkilton Bookkeeper Montroe Headd Distribution Manager Matt Heindl Distribution Raymond Carmeans, Jeff Cooper, Clint Dear, Robert Majors, Jody Windham ONLINE Web Developer Matt Heindl Web Editor Dustin Cardon Multimedia Editor Trip Burns Web Producer Korey Harrion CONTACT US: Letters Editorial Queries Listings Advertising Publisher News tips Fashion

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Jackson Free Press P.O. Box 5067, Jackson, Miss., 39296 Editorial (601) 362-6121 Sales (601) 362-6121 Fax (601) 510-9019 Daily updates at jacksonfreepress.com The Jackson Free Press is the city’s award-winning, locally owned newsweekly, with 17,000 copies distributed in and around the Jackson metropolitan area every Wednesday. The Jackson Free Press is free for pick-up by readers; one copy per person, please. First-class subscriptions are available for $100 per year for postage and handling. The Jackson Free Press welcomes thoughtful opinions. The views expressed in this newspaper are not necessarily those of the publisher or management of Jackson Free Press Inc. Š Copyright 2013 Jackson Free Press Inc. All Rights Reserved

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very other month, I join residents from across our city—college students, business leaders, grandmothers, men and women, Jacksonians—for a tour of their hometown. Some of you may have heard of what we call the Pride Ride. I serve as tour guide, and we visit every part of the capital city. Among the things we showcase are ongoing or completed developments, infrastructure projects, new businesses, eclectic neighborhoods and celebrated attractions. Inevitably, during every Pride Ride, citizens express amazement at what they see going on in their city. These rides invigorate our citizens and, many times, we find that people on the rides stay in touch and get more involved in partnering with us. Several weeks ago, the City of Jackson launched a marketing campaign called Celebrate Jackson. One of the overarching themes that we wanted to be sure to convey is that Celebrate Jackson is an inclusive, participatory, and fluid exercise in recognizing all that is wonderful and praiseworthy in our City. Too many times, we allow others to tell our story, and now is the time for us to take back the message and talk our town up! We need to toot our own horn, as it were. I personally travel all over Jackson visiting neighborhoods, businesses, community centers and people every day who share their concerns and ideas with me. Yes, there are often problems that we need to address. There are complaints that we need to look into. No one is denying that we don’t have challenges facing our city, but more often than not, there is an excitement, an energy, that is shared with me among our citizens. Because, by in large, our citizens see the progress we are making, and citizens share with me the fact that they want to help move our city forward. They understand all that Jackson can be and all that it is becoming. We need this sustained energy to be able to continue to improve Jackson, from government, citizens, businesses and everyone who has an interest in seeing the capital city of Mississippi continue to improve and to be an even better city than it is today. I love the fact that we have a wide-

ly read periodical like the Jackson Free Press that continues to celebrate Jackson. Every year in the Best of Jackson issue, the writers and staff celebrate our local talent, our local businesses, our local events and attractions, and so many of our people who work hard every day to make Jackson a better city. What’s even more impressive to me is the fact that the readers select the honorees. That’s what “participatory� looks like. As we move forward in making Jackson the city that we all know it can be, I suggest that we start like we do on the Pride Ride and what the Jackson Free Press does: Celebrate what we’ve already accomplished and recognize the outstanding assets that make us who we are. We have a robust economic-development climate that respected local, regional and national media outlets continually celebrate. Our status as an important destination city for the southeast is growing thanks to our convention center, our city’s cultural and historical venues, and our array of special events. Jackson’s reputation as a city that’s preparing tomorrow’s leaders is well established through internationally recognized institutions of higher learning located right here. And we will soon be at the epicenter of medical technology for the entire region with the realization of the Mississippi Medical Corridor. Individuals who realize that we have to work together to move our city forward have completed developments and made progress. When we harness our collective will and effort, share our ideas with one another and dream together, it’s then that we see all the possibilities for an even brighter future for our great city. So, as we celebrate another Best of Jackson edition of the Jackson Free Press and we applaud the individuals, institutions and businesses each of you chose as the best of the capital city, remember that we have so much to be proud of every day in Jackson. As mayor of Jackson, I am constantly in awe of the collective vision, energy and hope that comes from our people. I truly love the tenacity of our citizens, and it is my great pleasure to serve them every day. For me, the men, women and children who call this place home are the absolute Best of Jackson.

Now is the time for us to take back the message and talk our town up!

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jacksonfreepress.com

Collective Vision

13

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elcome, one and all. Come inside the 11th issue of the annual Best of Jackson reader’s choice awards. Every fall for more than a decade now, the Jackson Free Press has asked readers to vote for your favorite local businesses, people, institutions and organizations. Thanks to all who took time to

fill out the ballot to help point this positive spotlight where it needs to shine. Note that we will honor winners and finalists this Sunday, Jan. 27, at Cirque du Best of Jackson. If you or your organization is a finalist and you have not received an invitation, please email erica@jacksonfreepress.com to get on the guest list.

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Best Local Club DJ; Best Campaigner for the Best of Jackson Award: Phillip “DJ Young Venom� Rollins

Second: Jamie Moss, Fenian’s Pub (901 E. Fortification St., 601-948-0055) / Third: Haley Pennock, Soulshine Pizza Factory (5253 Highway 25, Suite 1100, Flowood, 601-919-2000) / Good Showing: Robert Arender, Parlor Market (115 W. Capitol St., 601-360-0090); Tiffanie Ransome, Table 100 (100 Ridge Way, Flowood, 601-420-4202); Trevor Palmer, Club Magoo’s (824 S. State St., 601-487-8710)

January 23 - 29, 2013

Sexiest Bartender (Male)

14

Second: Jamie Moss, Fenian’s Pub (901 E. Fortification St., 601-948-0055) / Third: Jeremy Gostkowski, Babalu Tacos and Tapas (622 Duling Ave., Suite 106, 601-366-5757) / Good Showing: John Hime, The Bulldog (6111 Ridgewood Road, 601-978-3502); John Ingram, Parlor Market (115 W. Capitol St., 601-360-0090); Trevor Palmer, Club Magoo’s (824 S. State St., 601-487-8710)

electioneering paid off, Rollins says he doesn’t consider himself the best club DJ. Rollins said club owners provide their own playlists and frown on scratching and some of the more artistic elements of DJing. —R.L. Nave Best Campaigner for the Best of Jackson Award Second: Jeff Good / Third: Janis Boersma / Good Showing: Chris Paige; Crystal Williams; Griff Howard

Best Local Club DJ Second: DJ Jonasty / Third: DJ Stache / Good Showing: DJ Cadillac; DJ Reign; DJ Unpredictable

Best Architect: Jeff Seabold

COURTESY JEFF SEABOLD

Best Bartender

COURTESY JULEP

With a hot shock of hair, colorful body art and easy charm, Brad Regan certainly earns Sexiest Bartender, but he’s got the mixology chops to snag Best Bartender honors, too. This guy’s not just another pretty face at the bar: Regan likes to experiment creating new drinks as much as he likes creating new looks. (Girls, did you know he’s also got cosmetology skills?) A fan of martinis, Regan’s latest signature drink is a plum martini, nicknamed an America by a regular male customer, not one of us ogling females. A licensed cosmetologist as well as bit of a country boy, Regan can talk ink to hairstyles to deer hunting, making him a favorite across the board. —Dawn Macke

When a fellow DJ groused about not winning the Best Local Club DJ award last year, Phillip Rollins advised that actively campaigning might improve his chances. “I decided to do a full campaign this year just to prove a point,� Rollins said. “I just wanted to have some fun.� Full is the operative word. Rollins, 28, printed T-shirts, wristbands, can coozies, stickers and posters emblazoned with “Vote Venom.� Even though the

Seabold Architectural Studio (2819 N. State St., 769-216-3101)

In 2009, Jeff Seabold opened Seabold Architectural Studio and set out to improve the Jackson area and Mississippi as a whole. “What motivates me is really helping people understand how architecture can change their lives for the better. Helping people have their visions realized is inspiring to me,� he says. The architect is most proud of his Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design projects, where he can design “nice spaces that are sustainable

FILE PHOTO

Julep Restaurant and Bar (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 105, 601-362-1411, juleprestaurant.com)

COURTESY DJ YOUNG VENOM

Best Bartender; Sexiest Male Bartender (Male): Brad Regan

and energy efficient.� He has served as chairman of the Mississippi chapter of the U.S. Green Building Council and the state’s LEED for Homes Advocate architect. —LaShanda Phillips Second: Michael Boerner, Wier+Boerner (2906 N. State St., Suite 106, 601321-9107) / Third: Duvall Decker Architects (2915 N. State St., 601-713-1128) / Good Showing: Ann Somers, Cooke Douglass Farr Lemons (3100 N. State St., Suite 200, 601-366-3110); Doug Dale,

Dale Partners Architects (188 E. Capital St., Suite 250, 601-352-5411); Neil Polen, Seabold Architectural Studio (2819 N. State St., 769-216-3101); Rob Farr, Cooke Douglass Farr Lemons (3100 N. State St., Suite 200, 601-366-3110)

Best Visionary: David Watkins

President, Watkins Development, 601-326-7610

David Watkins may have received Jackson’s Best Visionary based more on visions he delivered prior to 2012 than what has happened in the past year. Watkins was the development leader who brought the King Edward Hotel and Standard Life buildings, two of the city’s tallest and oldest structures, back from the brink of destruction. Now the King Ed houses a Hilton Garden Inn as well as luxury condos. Through the apartments at the Standard Life, Watkins brought more residents to the downtown area than it had seen in most Jacksonians’ lifetime.

Now Watkins is putting his chips on the Farish Street Entertainment District. In 2012, he made headlines with predictions for club openings on the street, none of which have come true. Financial and structural problems have plagued the street for decades. If anyone has shown they can overcome those barriers to revitalization, though, it’s Watkins. —Jacob Fuller Second: Simon Hamburg (Lemuria employee and musician, deceased,); Third: Jeff Good (Mangia Bene Catering, 601-362-2900 ext. 5); Good Showing: Malcolm White (Executive Director, Mississippi Arts Commission, 501 N. West Street, Suite 1101-A, 601359-6030); Ben Allen (President, Downtown Jackson Partners, 308 E. Pearl Street, Suite 101, 601-353-9800); daniel johnson (artist)

Best Barista: Caitlin McNally Cox

Best Business Owner: Jeff Good

Mangia Bene and Dollars & Sense Creative Consulting (3317 N. State St., 601982-4443)

Caitlin McNally Cox has been a barista at Sneaky Beans for almost three years. She likes the atmosphere at Sneaky Beans because the café is located in an old house and has the comfort and ambiance of home. “It’s a place where people lived and grew up. They prepared meals and ate together—they celebrated holidays,” Cox says. “You always see someone you know.” She works at becoming the best barista possible by doing research, developing her craft and learning about artisanal coffees. —Genevieve Legacy

“I have tremendous managers, tremendous staff with tremendous personalities that care about our mission of providing a quality product and services. … I’ve been living on a high these past couple of days,” Jeff Good says. He’s speaking about his most memorable moment of 2012: When he and his staff turned the lights off at BRAVO! on New Year’s Eve, they ended with the largest sales year in their 18-year history. And all he could feel was blessed. In 2012, Good, his business partners Dan Blumenthal and Danielle Boren, and a team of young creatives launched a new venture: Dollars & Sense Creative Consulting, which helps clients troubleshoot and expand their businesses. Good counts it a joy to share what he’s learned over the past 20 years with others. “So many just need a third party to sit down and talk to them where they are,” Good says. “It’s almost like going to therapy. Folks end up solving their own problems just by being able to talk through it with someone.” —Michael and ShaWanda Jacome

SHAWANDA JACOME

Second: Cody Cox, Cups: An Espresso Café (Fondren, 2757 Old Canton Road, 601-3627422) / India Jade Clark, Cups: An Espresso Café (Downtown, 210 E. Capitol St., 601-3520514) / Third: Amanda Ivers, Cups: An Espresso Café (Fondren, 2757 Old Canton Road, 601-362-7422) / Good Showing: Byron Knight, Sneaky Beans (2914 N. State St., 601-4876349); Emily Daniels, Seattle Drip (377 Highway 51, Ridgeland); Jay Humphries, Sneaky Beans (2914 N. State St., 601-487-6349); Joey Tannehill, Cups: An Espresso Café (Multiple Locations, cupsespressocafe.com)

Second: Stephanie Barnes, LaCru Salon (5352 Lakeland Drive, Suite 600, Flowood, 601-9927980) / Third: Byron Knight, Sneaky Beans (2914 N. State St., 601-487-6349) / Good Showing: Chris Jacobs, The Islander (1220 E. Northside Drive, Suite 100, 601-366-5441); Chris Paige, Custom Cuts & Styles (2445 Terry Road, 601-321-9292); Lynn Johnson O’Daniel, HeadGames Salon (5731 Old Canton Road, 601-956-5052)

Best Chef: Luis Bruno

Bruno’s Adobo (127 S. Roach St., 601-944-9501)

4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 235, 601-987-8722

Heading up the Best Of Jackson’s Best Dentist category is 52-year-old Dr. Paula Stewart, president elect of the Mississippi Dental Association. A 1995 graduate of the University of Mississippi School of Dentistry, Stewart previously worked in Clinton. She recently relocated her business, Paula Stewart, D.M.D & Associates, to the Highland Village Shopping Center in Jackson. —Darnell Jackson

Second: Jim Ed Watson (Kool Smiles, 1437 Old Square Road, 601-366-7645) / Third: Rusty Riley (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 238, 601-366-1117) / Good Showing: Sarah Carlisle (Carlisle Family Dentistry, 119 Colony Crossing Way, Madison, 601-345-4024); Tom Stewart (5800 Ridgewood Road, 601-956-8364)

Second: Mike Römhild, Table 100 (100 Ridge Way, Flowood, 601-420-4202) / Third: Derek Emerson, Walker’s Drive-In (3016 N. State St., 601-982-2633) and Local 463 (121 Colony Crossing Way, Suite A, Madison, 601-707-7684) / Good Showing: Nick Wallace, Hilton Garden Inn/King Edward Hotel (235 W. Capitol St., 601-353-5464); Jesse Houston, City Grocery (152 Courthouse Square, Oxford, 662-232-8080); Dan Blumenthal, Mangia Bene restaurants and catering (bestjacksoncatering.com)

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

TATE K NATIONS

Dr. Manisha Sethi began her journey of becoming a baby doctor at age 15 at Millsaps College. Graduating magna cum laude at age 18, Sethi entered medical school at the University of Mississippi fully prepared. After finishing school, she opened a medical clinic, Internal Medicine and Pediatric Associates of Ridgeland. She has more than 14 years of experience and is affiliated with the Mississippi Baptist Medical Center, Saint Dominic-Jackson Memorial Hospital and the University of Mississippi Medical Center. —Whitney Menogan Second: Timothy Quinn (Quinn Healthcare, 601-487-6482) / Third: Ruth Fredericks / Good Showing: Bard Johnston (Primary Care Center, 401 Baptist Drive, Suite 104, Madison, 601605-3858); Dan Woodliff (Internal Medicine Group, 971 Lakeland Drive, Suite 250, 601-9821283); Joe Terry (MEA Medical Clinic, 935 Highway 51, Madison, 601-856-5986)

Best Facialist/Esthetician: Laya Parisi

Body Anew Medical Spa (113 W. Jackson St., Suite 1-A, Ridgeland, 601-6050452, bodyanewmedicalspa.com) ALANA DONOVAN

Best Doctor: Manisha Sethi

COURTESY PAULA STEWART

Best Dentist: Paula Stewart

ANDREW DUNAWAY

It is no surprise that Luis Bruno won Jackson Free Press’s Best Chef award. He served as executive chef in the governor’s mansion for three consecutive Mississippi governors—Kirk Fordice, Ronnie Musgrove and Hayley Barbour—and several top restaurants around metro Jackson, including the popular Bruno’s Eclectic, which he ran with his former wife. For Bruno, being recognized as Jackson’s best chef is another trophy to put in his treasure chest of accomplishments. Of course, if you have met Bruno, you know he would not flaunt his accomplishments, which is part of the reason Jacksonians love him so much. The other reason is because the food served in his newest downtown restaurant, Bruno’s Adobo, is delicious. A culmination of three decades of culinary training, Bruno’s Adobo boasts one of the most popular lunch menus in Jackson. Try the already-famous Adobo burger with a side Bruno’s special orange guacamole or the black bean veggie burger. —Matthew Bolian

Laya Parisi became passionate about skin care through her research in learning how to age gracefully. She found herself wanting to help people look and feel better by either treating their acne or helping them look five years younger. “People motivate me. I want to help people achieve their needs. When they leave (the spa), they are more confident of themselves,” she says. Medical esthetician is Parisi’s second career. Initially, she was an international accessories designer. She was born in New York but came to Mississippi eight years ago. Parisi works for Body Anew Medical Spa, a family-owned business. She lives in Brandon with her 18-year-old son. —LaShanda Phillips Second: Rachel McDuffie, Aqua The Day Spa (1000 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite 8001, 601-898-9123) / Third: Linda Whitaker, Sun Gallery (6712 Old Canton Road, Suite 3, Ridgeland, 601-957-7502) / Good Showing: Ryan Hodges, Sanctuary Body Spa at the Township (340 Township Ave., Suite 200, Ridgeland, 601-790-2222); Tamar Sharp, nomiSpa (734 Fairview St., 601-948-3429); Whitney Davis, Blackledge Face Center (1659 Lelia Drive, 601-981-3033)

jacksonfreepress.com

TRIP BURNS

Sneaky Beans (2194 N. State St., 601-487-6349)

15

ProgressReport 2013

RETIRING AGING FACILITIES Much of the current energy infrastructure powering our communities today was designed, built and put in service by generations before us. Mississippi Power’s first generating plant—hailed as the most modern facility of its time when it was built in 1945 —is now being retired after nearly 70 years of service.

CLEANER, EFFICIENT TECHNOLOGY The Kemper County energy facility will utilize 21st century coal technology to generate environmentally responsible electricity while significantly reducing emissions. The project will capture at least 65 percent of the carbon dioxide produced, with resulting carbon emissions comparable to a similarly sized natural gas plant.

BUILT FOR MISSISSIPPIANS, BY MISSISSIPPIANS

January 23 - 29, 2013

The project, currently employing over 270 Mississippi companies, is creating nearly:

16

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12,000 direct and indirect jobs during construction and 1,000 direct and indirect permanent positions.

s

$75 million in state and local taxes during construction and $30 million annually in state and local taxes over the life of the plant.

The project is nearly 75 percent complete and scheduled to begin commercial operation in May 2014.

mississippipower.com/kemper

_____________________________________________Client ________________Date

For 88 years, Mississippi Power has delivered on our promise to provide clean, safe and reliable energy. The Kemper County energy facility project builds on that commitment, and was certified as the best long-term solution to deliver stable, low-cost energy to you, your children and your children’s children.

JANUARY

MPC 18194-7 Kemper Ad 60" (9.5” x 12.5”)__________Spell Check ________Prod. Artist ________Art Dir. ________Copywriter ________Copy Editor ________Creative Dir. ________Design Dir. ________Prod. Mgr. ________Acct. Exec. ________Acct. Supv.

Kemper County Energy Facility

Best Hair Stylist: Lori Ferguson, LaCru Salon

Anita Modak-Truran is a lawyer, a filmmaker, film reviewer and the president of Questidore Entertainment. Modak-Truran, who is a freelance film reviewer for the Jackson Free Press, has written and directed narrative and documentary films, music videos and corporate media presentations. Her knowledge and expertise as a lawyer has spurred the development of new niche of law films. Combining narrative filmmaking and complex litigation, her video productions for the American College of Trail Lawyers have garnered national attention. Though she has traveled extensively throughout the United States and Europe, Modak-Truran is dedicated to her Jacksonbased crew. “I work with a very talented pool of professionals, local actors, cameramen and techs,” she says. “I’m excited about the future of film industry in Jackson.” —Genevieve Legacy

At age 8, Lori Ferguson knew she wanted to be a hairstylist. “I really enjoy hair. I enjoy the creativity of it,” she says. In 2000, she graduated from Hinds Community College as a licensed cosmetologist, and she works for LaCru Salon. “If I came to work and didn’t make one person happy, I would just quit,” Ferguson says. The hairstylist takes pride in her ability to transform people’s looks. Ferguson spends most of her time perfecting her craft. From weddings to everyday clients, she thoroughly likes the whole process of makeovers. “It makes small differences in their lives,” she says. “I do their hair for pretty important events in their lives, and that’s really special.” Ferguson lives in Brandon and, like all true Mississippians, loves football. —LaShanda Phillips

TRIP BURNS

LaCru Salon (5352 Lakeland Drive, Suite 600, Flowood, 601-992-7980, lacrusalon.com)

Second: Crystal Williams, HeadGames Hair Studio (6712 Old Canton Road, Ridgeland, 601956-5052) / Third: Lacey Norris, Lacey’s Salon and Accessories (1935 Lakeland Drive, Suite C, 601-397-6398) / Good Standing: Griff Howard, Ritz Salon (574 Highway 51, Ridgeland, 601856-4330); Eddie Outlaw, William Wallace Salon (2939 Old Canton Road, 601-982-8300); Claire Kinsey, Gloss Salon (733 Lake Harbour Drive, Ridgeland, 601-898-8640)

Second: Jim Dollarhide / Third: Robby Piantinida / Good Showing: Amile Wilson; Damien Blaylock; Edward Saint Pé

Best Jackson Visual Artist (living): Josh Hailey joshhaileystudio.com

Best Jewelry Designer: Betsy Liles, B. Fine Art Jewelry 215 W. Jackson St., Ridgeland, 601-607-7741, blilesstudio.com

Second: Wyatt Waters (307 Jefferson St., Clinton, 601-925-8115, wyattwaters.com) / Third: Ginger Williams-Cook (gingerwilliams.net) / Good Showing: Ellen Langford (ellenlangford. com); Tony Davenport; William Goodman (enhancedmixture.com)

CAMILLE MOENKHAUS

The first time I met Betsy Liles, I was taking photos for the JFP. By the time I left, not only had I taken some great shots of handmade rings, earrings, bracelets and wedding rings, Liles had given me a friendly tour around the entire store. Liles, who says her jewelry designs are “derived from a lifetime interest in the beauties of nature surrounding me,” is the owner of B. Fine Art Jewelry in Ridgeland. She creates her designs with artisan Anne Brunson. The pieces they create are one-of-kind and highlight remarkable craftsmanship, whether created with hammer, anvil, fire or hydraulic press. They also offer a variety of services, including free jewelry cleaning and inspection, custom handcrafted jewelry, transformation jewelry (made from old jewelry you own), repairs, wholesale pricing for bridal gifts, 90-day layaway and appraisals. —ShaWanda Jacome

MICHAEL STANTON

After a hiatus from the top spot in 2012, Josh Hailey has once again reclaimed the title of Best Jackson Visual Artist. He’s a true creative soul that does it all: art, photography, music, documentaries and teaching. This past year, Hailey took to the road on a mission to see 50 states in 50 weeks. He chronicled his exploits at photamerica.com, where he describes the Photamerica project as his interpretation of modern America through images and interviews. While in Arkansas, ABC 40 interviewed Hailey, where he said: “America is the day-to-day—these guys playing football, these girls laying out getting some sun. Like, landscapes, people and cultures—whatever I find on a day-to-day basis.” Although he had hoped to complete the project in 2012, Hailey has only made it through 35 states, so far. For 2013, Hailey says he’s “gotta get it done” and is working on fundraising so he can go back on the road from March to August. —ShaWanda and Michael Jacome

Second: Lil McKinnon-Hicks, LilMcKH Jewelry (200 S. Commerce St., 601-259-6461); Liz Henry (lizhenryjewels.com) / Third: Leila Schott Kasmai, Leila Jewelry Designs (etsy.com/ shop/leilajewelrydesigns) / Good Showing: Alexandra Wilkes Long, Broque Revival (etsy.com/ shop/BroqueRevival); Calvin Stones Jewelers (2414 Terry Road, 601-373-4224); Juniker Jewelry (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 116, 601-366-3754 or 1-800-796-3754)

Best Gospel Artist: Dathan Thigpen COURTESY DATHAN THIGPEN

Second: Laurie Walker / Third: Mississippi Mass Choir / Good Showing: Chandra Wise; Rhonda Chambers; Di’Marco “Twiceborn” Baskins

Best Local Karaoke DJ: Matt Collette Matt Collette has been doing karaoke full-time since 2004, and he brings merriment all over town: Fenian’s Pub, Martin’s Lounge and Club Magoo’s, depending on the night. When interviewed as a 2011 Young Influential for BOOM Jackson he said: “This is not ‘American Idol.’ Just get up there and have fun.” Collette is a native of Virginia but has lived in Mississippi for more than 30 years. He has a degree in radio, television and film production from the University of Southern Mississippi. With an impressive selection of songs to choose from and a loyal following of Jacksonians, you should make it a New Year’s resolution to karaoke with Matt. Follow all his comings and goings on Facebook at facebook.com/matt.collette1. —ShaWanda Jacome Second: Angela Pittman (Krazy Karaoke) / Third: Casey Hardigree (DJ Stache) / Good Showing: DJ Cadillac; Carl McClemore; Jonas Adams (DJ Jonasty); Josh Hailey; Mike Mott

jacksonfreepress.com

There are people who can sing, and then there are people who can SANG. Dathan Thigpen is the latter. The tone and melody of his voice carries each word directly to your heart—praise and worship at its purest form. Thigpen began singing at an early age in the Mississippi Children’s choir. Later, he formed the Holy Nation Choir to continue spreading the message of God’s love. In 2010, he was a top-10 contestant on BET’s Sunday Best gospel singing competition. Thigpen is an ordained minister and holds bachelor and master degrees in mass communications from Jackson State University. In October 2012, he served as a celebrity judge along with Ruben Studdard and Kandi Burruss for The Voice of JSU competition. He currently lives in Atlanta, Ga., with his wife, Arian, and their two sons, Noah and Ian. Follow Dathan and his family on You Tube at youtube.com/user/yellowbowtie06. —ShaWanda Jacome

TATE K. NATIONS

COURTESY ANITA MODAK-TRURAN

Best Filmmaker: Anita Modak-Truran

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Best Local Singer/Songwriter: Taylor Hildebrand

Best Local Musician; Best Local Singer: Jason Turner jasonturnerband.com

R RAULSTON

FRANK EZELLE

Jason Turner is no stranger to hard work. He attributes his success to determination and “being everywhere.” “Probably to my detriment, I never say no to a gig,” he says. This full-time musician averages six performances each week at various venues around the Jackson area. Still, however, he manages to find time to record. In December 2011, Turner appeared on the “Oxford Sounds” project, recorded Live at Tweed Recordings. This March, Turner is releasing an album called “Apology on Repeat” with his band: bassist Andy “Snake Farm” Burczynski and drummer Matthew Newman. —Briana Robinson Best Local Musician

You could describe singer Taylor Hildebrand as a multitude of parts if you absolutely must—a sprinkle of Damien Rice, a dash of David Bazan and a scatter of Amos Lee—but to do so is to belittle the substance behind the Jackson-based singer/ songwriter and his decade-long music career. Truth and substance are what make Hildebrand’s deftly crafted folk songs so incredibly charming. If his spectral tone doesn’t hit you dead center with songs like “Clouds Fighting” and “Demon of June,” just wait until his rumbling vocals kick in like rolling thunder. If just for his instrumental prowess, he is still completely deserving of attention, but Hildebrand’s voice is so downright powerful and affecting that it enhances every carefully shaped and strummed chord. If you get the impression that Hildebrand has spent hours upon hours perfecting his impressive catalogue of music, that’s probably because he has. —Micah Smith Second: Jason Turner / Third: Kerry Thomas / Good Showing: Cody Cox; Hunter Gibson; Richard Lee Davis

Second (tie): Hunter Gibson; Scott Albert Johnson / Third: Richard Lee Davis / Good Showing: Barry Leach; Raphael Semmes; Taylor Hildebrand

Best Local Singer

Best Massage Therapist: Martha Howell

Second: Akami Graham / Third: Lisa Palmer / Good Showing: Pam Confer; Richard Lee Davis; Skylar Laine

Baptist Health Complex (717 Manship St., 601-968-1766, mbhs.org)

Meanest Bartender: Jimmy Quinn

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

Around closing time at Fenian’s Pub, Jimmy Quinn can transform from a mildmannered microbiologist to a boorish barkeep upon patrons’ refusal to leave after last call, or their engaging in “tomfoolery” or “douchebaggery” in the bar where Quinn has bartended for about five years. Under those circumstances, Quinn, a Philadelphia, Pa., native, said his reputation as the meanest SOB to keep bar in Jackson is probably justified. Other than that, he thinks he’s pretty cool. “I knew upfront that I would never be up for best (bartender), or least of all sexiest (bartender) so when I saw that meanest was down there, I knew I had a shot at something,” Quinn said. — R.L. Nave

Second: Brad Jackson, Body Anew Medical Spa (113 W. Jackson St., Suite 1-A, Ridgeland, 601-605-0452) / Third (tie): Jermaine Sims; Kali Horner; William Boren, Mississippi Medical Massage Therapy (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 239, 601-942-5014) / Good Showing: Courtney Mansell, Professional Massage Therapists Group (16 Northtown Drive, Suite 106, 601-966-1459); Kristen Hampton; Stephanie Miller, The Massage Studio LLC (1510 N. State St., Suite 302, 601-624-7784)

Note: Not all finalists were as pleased to receive this award as Jimmy Quinn, so we have agreed to withhold their names.

Best Professor: Jean Powers Best Preacher: Chip Henderson

Holmes Community College (412 W. Ridgeland Ave., 601-856-5400, holmes.cc.us)

Chip Henderson has served as Pinelake’s senior pastor for more than 10 years. His commitment to biblical, life-application teaching has sparked dynamic spiritual growth in the life of the church and beyond. Henderson is open and honest with his congregation about his faith. He holds a doctorate in New Testament studies, is the co-creator of the Bible reading plan L3 Journal, and serves on the board of directors for the Launch Church Planting Network. You can follow him on twitter at @Chip_henderson. —Elyane Alexander

This is Jean Powers’ fourth consecutive win for Best Professor. Powers teaches speech and communications at Holmes Community College and has taught for more than 13 years. She previously taught business at Hinds Community College and Belhaven University. Her students have plenty of positive things to say about her teaching style, which empowers them to have faith in their abilities and ideas. Many communications professors can be cynical and sarcastic, but Powers infects her classroom with her playful and sunny attitude. In addition to mentoring students and providing insight, she is a part-time yoga instructor at Courthouse Racquet & Fitness and has won Best Yoga Instructor in past Best of Jackson issues. —Mo Wilson

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Second: Keith Tonkel, Wells Methodist (2019 Bailey Ave., 601-353-06580) / Third: C.J. Rhodes, Mt. Helm Baptist Church (300 E. Church St., 601-353-3981) / Good Showing: Mike Campbell, Redeemer (640 E. Northside Drive, 601-362-9987); Rob Hill, Broadmeadow United Methodist Church (4419 Broadmeadow St., 601-366-1403); Robert Green, Fondren Church (622 Duling Ave., Suite 213, 601-208-0800)

AMILE WILSON

January 23 - 29, 2013

COURTESY CHIP HENDERSON

Pinelake Baptist Church, 6071 Highway 25, Brandon, 601-829-4500, pinelake.org

Second: James Bowley, Millsaps College (1701 N. State St., 601-974-1000) / Third: George Bey III, Millsaps College (1701 N. State St., 601-974-1000) / Good Showing: Bob Pennebaker, Belhaven University (1500 Peachtree St., 601-968-5940); Garrad Lee, Hinds Community College (3925 Sunset Drive, 601-366-1450); Jay Long, Hinds Community College (3925 Sunset Drive, 601-366-1450); Suzanne Marrs Millsaps College (1701 N. State St., 601-974-1000); Ted Ammon, Millsaps College (1701 N. State St., 601-974-1000)

VIRGINIA SCHREIBER

In Chinese culture, the number 3 is a symbol of life, birth and growth—all positive things. So for Martha Howell, winning Best Massage Therapist for the third time in the last four years must be a good sign. Howell has been a massage therapist for more than five years. “I love what I do. I feel very grateful to be able to help people relax and to work with people with special needs and special conditions,” she says. Although she has scaled back on her massage services due to her full-time work as the membership and marketing coordinator at Mississippi Baptist Health System, she still sees massage clients at the Jackson and Clinton Healthplexes. She has studied massage techniques in China and most recently picked up a thing or two at the Esalen Institute in Big Sur, Calif. —Michael and ShaWanda Jacome

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Meet Courtney Walker a 26 year old candidate for Jackson City Councilman Ward 5. Courtney grew up in the heart of Jackson Ms., and now plans to make Jackson and Ward 5 the best Ward in the city. Graduating from Jim Hill High School in 2004, Courtney went on to receive his bachelors degree from Mississippi State University. Courtney Walker is now home to help fix some of the issues he believes should have been fixed a long time ago. “I truly believe in my city and Ward 5; I believe we can accomplish so much with all that we have around us. My dream is to make Ward 5 one of the best wards to represent Jackson MS. Right now we have a lot of problems within the ward and the city but I believe with the help of the citizens both young and old we can make a difference.� Courtney knows that the road ahead will be a tough one but Courtney is ready to take on the challenge. “All I have ever asked for is a chance to make a difference, and on May 7th, 2013 I hope the citizens of Ward 5 give me that chance.�

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Winner of Best Real Estate Agent in the 2010 Best of Jackson.

Nix-Tann and Associates would like to congratulate our very own, Don Potts, for placing as a finalist for Best Real Estate agent in the 2013 Best of Jackson polls!

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Sumatran Tiger Panthera tigris sumatrae The Sumatran tiger is the smallest of the remaining five subspecies of tiger and lives exclusively in the tropical rainforests on the island of Sumatra, Indonesia. These large carnivorous cats are critically endangered with fewer than

Call us at 601-982-7918, stop by our office located at 1776 Lelia Drive Jackson, Ms or visit us on the web at nixtann.com for a free MLS Search.

PUT THE JACKSON ZOO AT YOUR FINGERTIPS. GO MOBILE AT JACKSONZOO.ORG Turn your zoo experience into a smartphone safari with the new Jackson Zoo mobile website. Enhance your visit with easy access to zoo maps, insider information on the animals, and more!

jacksonfreepress.com

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AMILE WILSON

Best Public Figure: Gov. Phil Bryant In the absence of a Most Fabulous Boots on a Local Elected Official category, Gov. Phil Bryant will just have to settle for the JFP’s Best Public Figure award (maybe next year, Phil). Bryant could also be a top contender for Best Beaterof-a-Dead-Horse for his steadfast opposition to the federal health-care law despite the U.S. Supreme Court’s settling of the matter last summer. And knowing what high esteem Bryant holds of the JFP, we bet he’s already got the perfect spot picked out in the governor’s mansion for the plaque. —R.L. Nave

Best Real Estate Agent: Mary Janita Tyree

Charlotte Smith Real Estate (1411 Old Square Road, 601-982-7998)

“Genuine” is how Charlotte Smith immediately described Mary Janita Tyree. It shines through as Tyree speaks about her love for working with first-time buyers. “They are so special to my heart,” she says, “and I just love to help them. Buying a home can be a scary process, and I just want to make it less so.” Dedicated to finding the perfect property for her clients, Tyree gives special attention to simplifying each step and clarifying the multitude of confusing details. —Dawn Macke

Second: Harvey Johnson Jr. / Third: Jeff Good / Good showing: Barbie Bassett; Colendula Green; Tyrone Lewis; William Winter

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

Second: Chris Paige / Third (tie): Marissa Simms; L. Sherie Dean / Good Showing: Brad Reeves; Charles and Talamieka Brice; Terry Sullivan

Second: Hayley Hayes (The Overby Company, 1808 N. State St., 601-940-0463) / Third: Don Potts (Nix-Tann & Associates, 1776 Lelia Drive, 601-982-7918) / Good Showing: Amia Edwards, Amia Edwards Real Estate, 601-941-8039); Laura Jackson (Century 21 Maselle & Associates, 4001 Lakeland Drive, Flowood, 601-540-0214); Sharla Bachelder (RE/MAX Alliance, 505 Avalon Way, Suite A, Brandon, 601-664-6967)

Best Server/Waitperson: Janis Boersma Nick’s Restaurant (3000 Old Canton Road, 601981-8017, nicksrestaurant.com)

A veteran winner, Janis Boersma is as much family to the Best of Jackson competition as she is to Nick’s restaurant and the customers who have loved her for more than 20 years. Boersma mixes bona fide love of people with efficacy and knowledge to fill more than just stomachs. Whether to the lone diner or the large table, she delivers perfect service with sides of friendship and hospitality all her own. —Dawn Macke Second: Cathy Ambrose (Fenian’s Pub, 901 E. Fortification St., 601-948-0055) / Third: Anne Friday (Hal & Mal’s, 200 S. Commerce St., 601-948-0888) / Good Showing: Corinn Escude, BRAVO! Italian Restaurant and Bar (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 244, 601-982-8111); Jennifer Breaux formerly of Parlor Market (115 W. Capitol St., 601-360-0090); Patrick Munn AJ’s Seafood Grille (223 Ridge Way, Flowood, 601-919-1900); Tracey Velotas, Ely’s Restaurant & Bar (115 W. Jackson St., Ridgeland, 601-605-6359)

Best TV Personality: Barbie Bassett (WLBT) Barbie Bassett is a meteorologist that we have all grown to know and love as she has blossomed on air. She relates to her viewers on different personal levels, whether because she was teased at school as a child or in her adult life as a career woman and mother. Bassett is also proactive in the community; she participates in Pantene’s Beautiful Length organization, which creates wigs for cancer patients. —Octavia Thurman Second: Maggie Wade (WLBT) / Third: Howard Ballou (WLBT) / Good Showing: Bert Case (WLBT); Megan West (WAPT); Rob Jay (WLBT)

Sexiest Bartender (Female): Christina Taylor

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Christina Taylor is a bartending mainstay of the karaoke bar at the newly rebranded Club Magoo’s. Taylor’s talent for bartending while singing karaoke has become a fan favorite., especially her mashups and duets with customers. “I love what I do, and it shows. I form friendships with the customers, and I take pride in the atmosphere,” Taylor says. With her pink hair and pink microphone, she put on a show unlike any other night spot in Jackson. —Greg Pigott Second (tie): Jillian Bolton, Table 100 (100 Ridge Way, Flowood, 601-420-4202); Tiffanie Ransome, Table 100 (100 Ridge Way, Flowood, 601-420-4202) / Third: Ashley Matlock, The Islander Seafood and Oyster House (1220 E. Northside Drive, Suite 100, 601-366-5441) / Good Showing: Alyson Brady, Time Out Sports Café (6270 Old Canton Road, 601-9781839); Ashley Lewis, The Bulldog (6111 Ridgewood Road, 601-978-3502); Bobbie Jo Kemp, Mississippi Legends Grill (5352 Highway 25, Suite 50, 601-919-1165)

Best Urban Warrior: Brad “Kamikaze” Franklin

TRIP BURNS

TRIP BURNS

January 23 - 29, 2013

Club Magoo’s (824 S. State St., 601-487-8710)

Known to his many fans simply as “Kaz,” Brad “Kamikaze” Franklin is a tireless promoter of all things Jackson (as well as a contributor to the JFP’s editorial pages). You can’t talk to him about a problem in the city without getting a challenge to help come up with solutions for fixing it or, at the least, hearing his opinions on whom to talk to. Franklin isn’t Pollyanish about Jackson’s issues nor is he apologetic: He just wants to get something accomplished. Whether you agree with him or not, give the man props for his unflagging support for our fair city: When he succeeds, we all do. —Ronni Mott Second: Julie Skipper / Third: Jeff Good / Good showing: Ben Allen; Kyle Howe; Marika Cackett

SHAWANDA JACOME

A great hairdresser is like a good man—hard to come by, but when you find one, you better hold on and never let go. Stephanie Barnes, 40, loves her customers. Although color is her specialty, Barnes’ best quality is that she listens. “We’re here for our clients. We listen first, and we always want to cater to their needs. … I’m there for them, whether it’s for hair or personal (advice),” she says. Barnes aims to be a positive role model and a mentor. For other young entrepreneurs, she offers this advice: “Any dream that you have, reach out for it. Nothing is unobtainable if you put your mind to it. … It may not be easy in the beginning, but don’t give up.” —ShaWanda and Michael Jacome

COURTESY STEPHANIE BARNES

Second: Karl Gorline, BRAVO! Italian Restaurant and Bar (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 244, 601-982-8111) / Third (tie): Josh Speights, Fenian’s Pub (901 E. Fortification St., 601-948-0055); Josh Marks (fresh from “Masterchef” stint)

LaCru Salon (5352 Lakeland Drive, Suite 600, Flowood, 601992-7980, lacrusalon.com)

ANDREW DUNAWAY

With big shoes to fill, Kajdan came aboard at Parlor Market after Jesse Houston left at the end of 2012. Kajdan grew up in Madison and started cooking at age 15. He then expanded his culinary prowess under mentor, local chef and restaurant owner Nick Apostle. Kajdan helped open the Mermaid Café with Apostle, spent time working in New York and worked for a little more than a year at BRAVO! before his current gig at PM. Since coming aboard, 27-year-old Kajdan and the PM team changed up the menus. Also coming in 2013, Parlor Market will host a guest chef every month from March to August. —ShaWanda Jacome

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Best Rising Entrepreneur: Stephanie Barnes

COURTESY BARBIE BASSETT

Craig Noone ‘Rock It Out’ Best New Chef: Matthew Kajdan

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Join Us For The Salvation Army’s

SOUPer Bowl XVI Please share a meal with us… that we may share a meal with those in need… -Soups & desserts by 26 local restaurantsCelebrity Fashion Show • Silent Auction • Grand Entertainment

For more information call 601.982.4881 or visit www.salvationarmyjackson.org

jacksonfreepress.com

Date: February 3, 2013 • Time: 11am - 2pm Place: The “New” Corps Center 570 E. Beasley Road • Jackson Cost: 13 - Adult $10 • Children 5 -12 $5

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January 23 - 29, 2013

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Best Arts Organization: Mississippi Museum of Art Although the Mississippi Museum of Art has been in existence for more than 100 years, it has really come into its own in the last decade or so. The museum’s permanent collection houses works from Mississippi artists including P. Sanders McNeal’s “The Rehearsal.” In addition, special collections rotate throughout the year, featuring a wide range of artists and art styles. Last year saw an exhibit on the art of Curious George, followed a few months later by one on the watercolors and oils of William Hollingsworth. A communitysupported institution, MMA also partners with 29 affiliate museums across the state to share the collection through loans and traveling exhibitions, enriching the lives of people who can’t travel to Jackson. Programs at MMA include Collecting 101, a workshop for new collectors and art lovers, and Look and Learn with Hoot, hands-on art education for preschool children. —Genevieve Legacy Second: Mississippi Arts Commission (501 N. West St., Suite 1101-A, 601-359-6030) / Third: Mississippi Metropolitan Ballet (110 Homestead Drive, Madison, 601-853-4508) Good Showing: Ballet Mississippi (201 E. Pascagoula St., Suite 106, 601-960-1560); Craftsmen’s Guild of Mississippi (950 Rice Road, Ridgeland, 601-856-7546); Greater Jackson Arts Council (255 E. Pascagoula St., 601-960-1557)

Best Radio Personality; Best Radio Station: Nate and Murphy (Y101) Nearly every morning, commuters tune into Y101 to hear two comical men with a love for radio, Nate (left, in photo) and Murphy. The radio pair has worked together for years. Nate West and Tim Murphy host the Morning Showgram weekdays from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. Current pop music hits, celebrity gossip and cash prize contests are sure to keep you alert on the way to your traveling destination or while cleaning the house. The pair also shines a light into their hilarious personal lives. Y101 plays top billboard songs, hits from the past decade and even old-school mixes. On Sundays, the station has a countdown of the top chart songs, and gives you info on the spot it has moved up to or moved down from. Radio contests flow throughout the week with prizes of concert tickets or cash. —Octavia Thurman

COURTESY Y101

TRIP BURNS

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

Best Radio Personality Second: Rick and Kim (MISS 103 FM) / Third: Scott Steele (WUSJ 96.3 FM) / Good Showing: Bo Bounds (The Zone 105.9 FM); DJ Unpredictable (97.7 FM); Marshall Ramsey (SuperTalk Mississippi)

Best Radio Station Second: WJMI (99.7 FM) / Third: WRBJ (97.7 FM) / Good Showing: WKXI (Kixie 107.5 FM); WLEZ (EZ 100.1 FM); WMSI (MISS 103 FM)

Best Place to Chill: Cups: An Espresso Cafe Multiple Locations, cupsespressocafe.com

Since the opening of its first location in 1993, Cups has been spreading like wildfire—a richly scented, community-friendly wildfire. The coffeehouses popped up all over central Mississippi, with three on Lakeland Drive alone. While the coffee never falls far from the familial tree, none of these locations can surpass the peaceful and approachable ambiance of the original Cups in Fondren. With its occasional free concerts and its tables, walls and windows adorned with local artwork, it is instantly evident that Cups aspires to be the sweet-smelling sanctuary that the Jackson art and music scenes need. But these factors only lend to the overall tone of Jackson’s first-rate reprieve from the day-to-day rush. Cups in Fondren exudes a quiet, calming comfort that makes it the perfect spot for some light reading, studying or simply catching up with friends. —Micah Smith Second: Sneaky Beans (2914 N. State St., 601-487-6349) / Third: Fenian’s Pub (901 E. Fortification St., 601-948-0055) / Good Showing: The Bulldog (6111 Ridgewood Road, 601978-3502); Underground 119 (119 S. President St., 601- 352-2322); Reservoir

Best Church Choir: First Baptist Church of Jackson 431 N. State St., 601-949-1900, fbcj.org

Psalms 66 says, “Make a joyful noise unto God, all ye lands: sing forth the honor of his name: make his praise glorious.” The First Baptist Church of Jackson does that with excellence and conviction. The choir has more than 1,100 members, ranging from 3-year-olds to senior adults. In addition to performing at Sunday church services, the choir has special musical events including an Easter musical and drama production and a patriotic concert. The sound is a musical blend of voices, instruments, handbells and various ensembles. In December, the FBCJ Sanctuary Choir joined with Ballet Magnificat! for the annual “Carols by Candlelight.” —Michael Jacome Second: Mississippi Mass Choir (601-366-8863) / Third: Pinelake Church (6071 Highway 25, Brandon, 601-829-4500, pinelake.org) / Good Showing: Anderson United Methodist Church (6205 Hanging Moss Road, 601-982-3997); Christ United Methodist (6000 Old Canton Road, 601-956-6974); New Jerusalem Church (5708 Old Canton Road, 601-206-5844; 1285 Raymond Road, 601-371-6772)

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

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Cities are often described as “concrete jungles” because of their abundance of large, modern buildings, often perceived as unpleasant and devoid of green spaces. The Art Garden at the Mississippi Museum of Art, which opened in 2011, is a thriving green space in downtown Jackson designed to bring nature into the heart of the city. The Art Garden is a 1.2-acre park where “community and culture convene,” according to the Mississippi Museum of Art’s website. The outdoor space features terrace dining, native garden beds, fountains and permanent art installations by Duncan Baird, John Clark, Fletcher Cox, Martha Ferris, Ed McGowin, Jennifer Torres, Andrew Cary Young, Terry Weldon and an Artists’ Cutting Gardens made possible by

Jane Hiatt and inspired by Clarksdale artist Jason Bouldin. The garden is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. In 2012, several events were held in the garden, including Live at Lunch, High Note Jam, Dog Day Afternoons, Screen on the Green, Garden Partners Membership Tea, Art Remix, Town Creek Arts Festival and Art Remix, The Garden Club of Jackson events and an Evening for Educators —ShaWanda Jacome Second: Mynelle Gardens (4736 Clinton Blvd., 601-9601894) / Third: Mississippi Museum of Natural Science (2148 Riverside Drive, 601-354-7303) / Good Showing: Clinton Community Nature Center (617 Dunton Road, Clinton, 601-

926-1104); Jackson Zoological Park (2918 W. Capitol St., 601352-2580); LeFleur’s Bluff State Park (2140 Riverside Drive, 601987-3923); Tougaloo-Rainbow Sustainable Garden, Tougaloo College (500 W. County Line Road, Tougaloo, 601-977-7700)

TRIP BURNS

January 23 - 29, 2013

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

Best Nonprofit Organization: Community Animal Rescue and Adoption Inc. (CARA)

Best Stage Play: “The Color Purple” by MADDRAMA, Jackson State University

Holding the leash to our new miniature schnauzer, my wife introduced her to our son, Mateo. “Her name is Duchess,” she said. With some apprehension, Duchess sniffed Mateo and formed an unbreakable bond. Duchess has been a member of the family for six years now. She came to us through an organization like CARA. It is this love for (and from) pets that the good people at CARA share. While Duchess may stare at us and send subliminal messages to give her our food, we cannot imagine life without her. CARA is a no-kill shelter funded by donations. The part-time staff and volunteers care for about 425 pets, and CARA is now accepting donations to help build a dog park. —Michael Jacome

The curtains were pulled back for six days at the end of November 2012 for the mass production of the Broadway hit musical “The Color Purple” by the Jackson State University Theatre Department. It included Jackson State students, community members and the renowned Mississippi Mass Choir. The play centered around sexism, racism and abuse in the south during the early 20th century. The theater department presented the play for its 50th anniversary and to help the college promote Domestic Abuse Awareness for the month of October. The musical is based on Alice Walker’s prize-winning novel of the same name. Mark Henderson, the theater director at Jackson State, wanted the play to have educational value and entertainment as well, he said. —Elyane Alexander

Second: Stewpot Community Services (1100 W. Capitol St., 601-353-2759) / Third: The Salvation Army (110 Presto Lane, 601-982-4881) / Good Showing: The Good Samaritan Center (114 Millsaps Ave., 601-355-6276); The Mustard Seed (1085 Luckney Road, Brandon, 601992-3556); Operation Shoestring (1711 Bailey Ave., 601-353-6336)

TRIP BURNS

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

New Stage Theatre is Mississippi’s only not-forprofit professional theater. Since its premier season in 1965, New Stage Theatre has brought quality theater production and experiences to the people of Mississippi. Recent productions include a stage adaptation of “The Great Gatsby.” New Stage displays its devotion to the art of theater, and especially the artists, by including an original new play each season and promoting local talent with “Unframed at New Stage.” The series features contemporary, challenging works written and performed by local artists. Productions of 2013 include the gospel musical “Mahalia” in February and the musical comedy “Hairspray” in May. —Genevieve Legacy Second: Fondren Theatre Workshop (601-301-2281, fondrentheatreworkshop.org) / Second: Black Rose Theatre Company (103 Black St., Brandon, 601-825-1293) / Third: MADDRAMA at JSU (601-454-1183) / Good Showing: Actor’s Playhouse (121 Paul Truitt Lane, 601-664-0930); Ballet Magnificat! (5406 Interstate 55 N., Pearl, 601-977-1001); Thalia Mara Hall (255 E. Pascagoula St., 601-960-1537)

Best Reason to Live in Jackson: The People

Best Project under Construction: Fortification Street

Everyone has a story. Given our state’s rich history, proliferation of artists, musicians and colorful politicians, it’s likely that the story of any given person you meet has, in fact, been published somewhere. But regardless of whether they’re widely known or not, everyone you meet is a character in the collective story of our city’s past, present and future. And while we are the state’s largest city and the capital, we’re still enough like a small town that while sitting at a coffee shop or on a barstool, or just standing in line at the grocery, you can strike up a conversation and learn something fascinating about a neighbor, new acquaintance, or total stranger who makes you appreciate our community and the people in it even more. —Julie Skipper

The condition of Fortification Street has led to city workers re-filling pot holes and citizens getting the front end of their vehicles realigned on a regular basis for the last decade. Finally, a change is underway. Hemphill Construction and subcontractors are in progress on an $8.9 million makeover of the street that will include 1.2 miles of new pavement and ADA-compliant sidewalks from Greymont Avenue to Farish Street. They are converting the stretch from Greymont Avenue to Jefferson Street from four lanes to three, with six new traffic signals, traffic-monitoring cameras, decorative lights, relocation of all overhead utility lines to an underground system and a new 24-inch water main under Jefferson Street to replace the city’s oldest lines. If we saw the same broken ground on Farish Street that we see on Fortification, it might be the winner. —Jacob D. Fuller

Second: Fondren / Third: The Food / Good showing: Convenience; Culture; Reservoir

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Best Local Live Theater/Theatrical Group: New Stage Theatre

Second: “The Great Gatsby” by New Stage Theatre / Third: “Rocky Horror Show” by Fondren Theatre Group / Good Showing: “Annie” by New Stage Theatre; “A Christmas Memory” by New Stage Theatre; “The Foreigner” by New Stage Theatre

Second: Farish Street / Third: Whole Foods Market (4500 Interstate 55 N., 601-982-5861) / Good Showing: Baptist Health Systems (1313 N. President St., 601-968-1000); Iron Horse Grill (320 W. Pearl St.); Midtown redevelopment

jacksonfreepress.com

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

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January 23 - 29, 2013

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1822 Square Old Capitol Green Jackson, MS Project Summary

Project Type Mixed Use, Mixed Income, Mixed Finance Underground Robotic Automated Parking Project Value $83.5M Estimated Developer/Owner Full Spectrum Design Team Schwartz Architects JBHM Architects & Planners Brennan Group Johnson Controls, Inc Waggoner Engineering Construction Managers W. G. Yates & Sons Construction

1822 Square at Old Capitol Green, Jackson, MS. Branded to honor the year the City of Jackson was incorporated. Commercial and Office Tower 128,000 GSF $29,542,308 Residential and Retail Building 183,106 GSF $31,644,726 Garage and Chilled Water Plant 480 Stalls $22,358,020 $83,545,054 Key Project Features • 128,000 square feet of general office space (core and shell) • 27,800 square feet of retail space for local and national retailers • 12,000 square foot independent media and performance space • 129 units of market rate and affordable rental housing • 480-space robotic parking garage that will reduce the Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) and carbon emissions, while increasing safety, security and space efficiencies • 1200 ton modular and expandable chilled water plant that will serve new developments beyond Phase I • Public plaza surrounded by retail and cultural space • LEED New Construction Gold Certification and LEED Core & Shell Gold Certification targeted • Strategic partnership with the Alliance for the Sustainable Built Environment • Design targets to reduce overall energy by 50% over current building code and minimize potable water usage by 50% • Waste and recycling program including recycling and compost collection • Wireless connectivity throughout public spaces • Job creation of 935 permanent, 1,634 temporary construction, and 1,835 indirect construction jobs Project Status • Master Plan – 100% complete. • Zoning—100% complete. • Architectural Design—30% schematic completed. For More Information, contact Malcolm Shepherd, Development Director, Full Spectrum South 601.812.5568, mshepherd@fullspectrumny.com www.fullspectrumny.com

for voting us one of the -Bar-B-Que Restaurants • Best of Jackson 2013-

Best Burger

(a very high-class pig stand)

1EMR 7XVIIX ˆ 1EHMWSR ˆ

$8.99

1 Meat, 3 Veggies, Bread and Drink

live music january 23 - 30

Best Local French Fries

wed | jan 23 | 5:30-9:30p Jesse “Guitar“ Smith

Best Veggie Burger

thur | jan 24 | 5:30-9:30p Brian Jones

Best Happy Hour Best Caterer Best Outdoor Dining Best Place to Book a Party or Shower

'ERXSR 1EVX 6H ˆ .EGOWSR ˆ

New Blue Plate Special

fri | jan 25 | 6:30-9:30p Richard, Shawn & Kenny sat | jan 26 | 6:30-10:30p Guitar Charlie sun | jan 27 | 5:30-9:30p Jon Clark

Best Kids’ Menu

mon | jan 29 Karaoke

Best Hangover Food

tue | jan 30 | 5:30-9:30p Jesse “Guitar� Smith

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

jacksonfreepress.com

BEST

Thanks To Our Customers for Your Support! Because of You We Are A Finalist In:

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Best Locally Owned Business; Best Salon: LaCru Salon

Best Museum; Best Tourist Attraction: Mississippi Children’s Museum

Walt Disney said, “Do what you do so well that they will want to see it again and bring their friends.” Stephanie Barnes, owner of LaCru Salon, knows this to be true. The 8-year-old business has seen great success, even in the midst of the current recession. Barnes says she owes this to her patrons. “I am thankful for our loyal clientele,” she says, adding that her clients are priceless. LaCru Salon’s stylists have 28 years of combined experience, and all 10 designers are Redken-certified colorists. They provide services for women, men and children in a comfortable boutique-esque atmosphere. They also sell Liz Henry jewelry and recently hosted an open house to show appreciation to existing clients, to foster relationships with new clients, and to introduce new products and trends for the new year. One year they even did complimentary ornaments during Christmas. If you’ve ever wondered where the name came from, Barnes inherited it when she bought the business in 2004. LaCru is a mash-up of the previous owners’ children’s first names. In 2013, LaCru will expand to the suite next door and open a smoothing bar in February, which will offer keratin treatments and Brazilian blowouts. —ShaWanda and Michael Jacome

From the first day it opened in December 2010, the Mississippi Children’s Museum has been a magical and vibrant addition to the Jackson metro landscape. Patrons of all ages will find something to enjoy at the museum with weekday classes, professional development workshops for educators, special guests and various weekend activities—there is always something going on at the museum. The 40,000-square-foot facility is available to rent for weddings, receptions, parties, meetings, conferences and other celebrations. There are 20,000 square feet of exhibits reflecting five themes: Mississippi heritage, health and nutrition, literacy, cultural arts, and science and technology. All the exhibits give children the opportunity to touch, play, explore and learn. Families can buy annual memberships that give full access to the museum, and other discounts. To support the exhibits, programs and community outreach, each year the museum holds its annual Ignite the Nite fundraising event. This year, the adults-only party is on Feb. 9, from 6:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. The theme is “Saddle Up, Southern Style” and the host is once again MCM Partners, a statewide group of volunteers and donors who support and contribute to the museum. —ShaWanda Jacome

Best Beauty Shop or Salon

Best Tourist Attraction

Second: Ritz Salon (574 Highway 51, Suite H, Ridgeland, 601-856-4330) / Third (tie): Barnette’s Salon (4465 Interstate 55 N., Suite 201, 601-362-9550; 1000 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite 8001, Ridgeland, 601-898-9123); Molecules (794 Highway 51 N., Suite A, Madison, 601-605-4511) / Good Showing: Lacey’s Salon and Accessories (1935 Lakeland Drive, Suite C, 601-397-6389); Smoak Salon (622 Duling Ave., Suite 206, 601-982-5313); William Wallace Salon (2939 Old Canton Road, 601-982-8300)

Second: Old Capitol Museum (100 N. State St., 601-576-6920) / Third: Mississippi Museum of Natural Science (2148 Riverside Drive, 601-354-7303) / Good Showing: Jackson Zoo (2918 W. Capitol St., 601-352-2580); Mississippi Museum of Art (380 S. Lamar St., 601-960-1515); Ross Barnett Reservoir (therez.ms)

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

Best Locally Owned Business Second: Mangia Bene (3317 N. State St., 601-982-4443) / Third: Sneaky Beans (2914 N. State St., 601-487-6349) / Good Showing: circa. URBAN ARTISAN LIVING (2771 Old Canton Road, 601-362-8484); Morningbell Records & Studios (622 Duling Ave., Suite 205A, 769-233-7468); Tempstaff (962 North St., 601-353-4200; 955 Jefferson St., 601353-3777; 3091 S. Liberty St., Suite A, Canton, 601-859-8860)

Second: Mississippi Museum of Natural Science (2148 Riverside Drive, 601-354-7303) / Third: Mississippi Museum of Art (380 S. Lamar St., 601-960-1515) / Good Showing: Mississippi Agricultural and Forestry Museum (1150 Lakeland Drive, 601-432-4500); Old Capitol Museum (100 S. State St., 601-576-6920); Smith Robertson Museum and Cultural Center (528 Bloom St., 601-960-1457)

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

Downtown 601-948-0888, malsstpaddysparade.com

The Mal’s St. Paddy’s Parade is the gleeful brain-child of Malcolm White, co-owner of Hal & Mal’s. He started the parade in 1983 with just a few of his buddies dressed like Tennessee Williams characters walking down Capitol Street. These days, the merriment includes a parade race, the Trustmark’s Children Festival and a pet parade. The main event, a Mardi Grasstyle parade, begins in the afternoon and ends with several downtown block parties sponsored by various groups, bars and eateries. The parade has attracted more than 60,000 revelers and has funneled more than $7 million into the local economy, including proceeds from various activities benefitting the Blair E. Batson Children’s Hospital. Always on the third Saturday in March, this year’s parade will be on March 16 with the theme of “Waters, Waters Everywhere,” honoring this year’s Grand Marshal, local artist Wyatt Waters. —ShaWanda Jacome

WILLIAM PATRICK BUTLER

January 23 - 29, 2013

Best Museum

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

Best Annual Event: Mal’s St. Paddy’s Parade

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TATE K NATIONS

COURTESY TRIP BURNS

5352 Lakeland Drive, Suite 600, Flowood, 601-992-7980, lacrusalon.com

Second: Mistletoe Marketplace (1200 Mississippi St., 601-948-2357, mistletoemarketplace. com) / Third: Wellsfest (wellschurch.org) / Good Showing: CelticFest (celticfestms.org); Fondren Unwrapped (fondren.org, 601-981-9606); Mississippi State Fair (mdac.state.ms.us)

The South is essentially a blank slate. A spacious warehouse with barn-esque detailing, the event space can be endlessly customized through furnishings, lighting and décor, which makes it a popular locale for weddings and parties. Most brides tend to play up The South’s more rustic elements, taking full advantage of the worn wood and vintage furniture. Burlap, branches and wood elements, glass and candlelight complement the exposed brick. But The South can go modern just as easily; all-white couches and steel or glass elements look at home in the space as well. Up to 2,000 people can mingle comfortably, and the in-house catering, and floral design by Fresh Cut rarely disappoints. —Kathleen M. Mitchell Best Place to Get Married Second: Fairview Inn (734 Fairview St., 601-948-3429) / Third: Mynelle Gardens (4736 Clinton Blvd., 601-960-1894) / Good Showing: Art Garden at the Mississippi Museum of Art (380 S. Lamar St., 601-960-1515); The Cedars (4145 Old Canton Road, 601366-5552); Luckett Lodge (214 Clark Creek Road, 601-829-2567)

Best Place to Book a Party or Shower Second: Table 100 (100 Ridge Way, 601-420-4202) / Third: Fairview Inn (734 Fairview St., 601-948-3429) / Good Showing: Burgers & Blues (1060 E. County Line Road, Suite 22, Ridgeland, 601-899-0038); The Cedars (4145 Old Canton Road, 601-366-5552); King Edward Hotel (235 W. Capitol St., 601-353-5464)

Best Art Gallery: Fischer Galleries

Best Barber Shop: Maurice’s Barber Shop

3100 N. State St., Suite 101, 601-291-9115, fischergalleries.com

1200 E. Northside Drive, 601-362-2343; 1060 Highway 51, Madison, 601-856-0015; 398 Highway 51, Suite 60, Ridgeland, 601-856-2856; 622 Grants Ferry Road, Flowood, 601-992-9031

Pablo Picasso said, “The purpose of art is washing the dust of daily life off our souls.” It took me many years to be able to appreciate that sentiment. I have Jackson to thank for finally showing me the meaning. The art that originates in our great city is truly outstanding. One of the hippest and swankiest places to view and purchase local art is Fischer Galleries. Located in the heart of Fondren, the gallery’s owner is Jackson native Marcy Nessel, and it has been open since 2008. In the bright and airy space, you’ll find art by Ginger Williams-Cook, Sandra Murchison, Rod Moorhead, Paul Fayard and James Patterson—to name just a few. Fischer Galleries also hosts monthly art shows. The next show is on March 7 and features the art of Tony Saladino with Stacey Johnson. —ShaWanda Jacome

SHAWANDA JACOME

Einstein, one of the smartest people to have ever lived, was well known for his wild hair. Then again, maybe he was not a big fan of haircuts because no one ever took him to Maurice’s Barber Shop. As a long-standing part of the Jackson landscape, Maurice’s is an important part of the city’s history. Of course, history is not going to keep you from looking shabby, but that is why Maurice’s is there. You might not get the girl of your dreams or have a six-figure salary because of a shave and a haircut, but it can’t hurt. —Michael Jacome Second: Custom Cuts and Styles (2445 Terry Road, 601-321-9292) / Third: Family Barber Shop (211 Hoy Road, Madison, 601-853-8084) / Good Showing: Headgames Hair Studio (5731 Old Canton Road, Suite 104, 601-956-5052); Lacey’s Salon and Accessories (1935 Lakeland Drive, Suite C, 601-397-6389); Lil’ Dave’s Barber Shop (3013 J.R. Lynch St., 601-354-1010)

Second: Fondren Art Gallery (3030 N. State St., 601-981-9222) / Third: Southern Breeze Gallery (1000 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite 5005, Ridgeland, 601-607-4147) / Good Showing: Brown’s Fine Art & Framing (630 Fondren Place, 601-982-4844); Gallery1 (1100 John R. Lynch St., Suite 4, 601-979-9250); Gallery 119 (119 S. President St., 601969-4091);

Best Bridal/Formalwear Store: The Bridal Path 4465 Interstate 55 N., Suite 104, 601-982-8267, bridalpathinc.com

Whether they dream of a full-on princess ball gown or long to be an icy white column of silk, most women consider their wedding dress the most important item of clothing they purchase in a lifetime. It’s likely the most expensive one, anyway. With that much money and emotion tied up in one garment, it’s best to turn to the professionals. For more than 40 years, stylists at The Bridal Path in Banner Hall have helped brides find the best gown to flaunt their assets. The store carries upscale brands hitting a wide range of price points, including Monique Lhuilier, Vera Wang, Jim Hjelm, Watters, Wtoo and Pronovias. Bring the entire wedding party along—Bridal Path also offers dresses for bridesmaids, flower girls and the mother of the bride or groom, as well as accessories such as shoes, veils and jewelry. —Kathleen M. Mitchell

Best Boutique: Material Girls

182 Promenade Blvd., Flowood, 601-992-4533; 1000 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite 7005, Ridgeland, 601-605-1605, shopmaterialgirls.com ALLIE JORDAN

Many girls instinctively have a sense of fashion. Others, like me, rely on boutiques and shops like Material Girls to keep them looking trendy year-round. Whitney Giordano, owner of Material Girls, opened the first location in 2004 at the Dogwood Promenade. By 2011, she had expanded her business to four locations around Mississippi (two in Jackson) and an online store. The store’s goal of keeping current and unique brands paired with hard-working employees that ensure each customer is satisfied is why Jackson gave it the Best Boutique award once again. Material Girls sells designer brands such as Ronaldo, and soon it will offer style cards with which customers earn points and money on the items they buy. Follow them on Facebook and Twitter, or sign up for texts to stay updated on the latest fashions. —LaShanda Phillips

Second: Lace (109 Grants Ferry Road, Brandon, 601-665-4860) / Third: Imaginations (119 W. Cherokee St., Brookhaven, 601-833-6280); Good Showing: Alfred Angelo (1230 E. County Line Road, Ridgeland, 601-956-1806); David’s Bridal (1039 E. County Line Road, Suite 105, 601-957-0505); A Southern Affair (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 160, 601-487-6218)

Best Caterer: Wendy Putt, Fresh Cut Catering & Floral

Second: Royal Bleau Boutique (1100 J.R. Lynch St., Suite 8, 601-321-9564) / Third (tie): Libby Story (1000 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite 5003, 662-323-1427); Treehouse Boutique (3000 N. State St., 601-982-3433) / Good Showing: High Cotton (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 188, 601-982-3280); Migi’s Boutique (131 Market St., Flowood, 601-919-8203); Posh Boutique (4312 N. State St., Suite 2, 601-364-2244)

Best of Jackson season always brings out a few grumbles. Most are good-natured, “Aw, shucks!” kind of commentary. Others aren’t so nice, leaning toward some definite sour-grapes attitudes. Some who haven’t won have even accused the JFP of rigging votes. But whether it comes from someone who thought they should win, or someone who didn’t quite play by the rules, we always get a handful of complaints. Regardless, this is one category where we solicit opinions on our list. This year’s winners are an interesting mix, but they all have one thing in common: They’re all services. And with the ever-increasing popularity of the dance-workout hybrid Zumba, it’s no surprise to see Best Zumba Instructor topping the list. Look for some new categories next year and monthly at bestofjackson.com. —Ronni Mott Second: Best Photographer / Third: Best Doula / Good showing: Best Nail Salon/Technician; Best Personal Trainer; Best Travel Agent

TRIP BURNS

Best Category We Left Off: Best Zumba Instructor

When I think of Wendy Putt working, I picture the opening scene of the 2001 movie, “The Wedding Planner.” In it, wedding planner Mary Fiore perfectly orchestrates an elaborate wedding (including giving a nervous bride a pep-talk and finding the MIA F.O.B.) while immaculately dressed and without breaking a sweat. Similarly, Fresh Cut Catering & Floral can handle all event types—from the intimate backyard wedding or baby shower to a large corporate party with a diverse menu for their clients. Their capabilities are suited to for any event, and they can assist with every aspect including rentals, music, floral design and event coordination. With more than 20 years of experience, Putt and her team have you covered from “soup to nuts.” —ShaWanda Jacome Second: Mangia Bene (4465 Interstate 55 N., Suite 101, 601-362-2900) / Third: Cosmopolitan Café and Catering (2947 Old Canton Road, 601-983-4450) / Good Showing: Burgers & Blues (1060 E. County Line Road, Suite 22 Ridgeland, 601-899-0038); Cool Water Café (1011 Lake Harbour Drive, Ridgeland, 601-919-7622); Julep Restaurant and Bar (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 105, 601-362-1411);Julie Levanway, Fresh From The Flame (5446 River Thames Road, 601-957-6123); Table 100 (100 Ridge Way, Flowood, 601-420-4202)

jacksonfreepress.com

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

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

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

5352 Highway 25, Flowood, 601-992-3100 COURTESY SHAWANDA JACOME

Second: Van’s Comics and Cards (558 Highway 51, Suite 202, Ridgeland, 601-898-9950) / Third: Comic Commander (579 Highway 51, Suite D, Ridgeland, 601-856-1789)

Best Day Spa: Aqua the Day Spa

4465 Interstate 55 N., Suite 102, 601-362-9550; 1000 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite 8001, Ridgeland, 601-898-9123, aquathedayspa.com

The week of my wedding, my bridesmaids got me a surprise massage at Aqua the Day Spa. Despite the stresses of the week, about halfway through the massage, I managed to relax so completely that I might have dozed off a bit. Never before have I had a massage that so completely took me to a zen place. Best Day Spa since 2003, Aqua the Day Spa has two locations—in Jackson’s Banner Hall and Ridgeland’s Renaissance—to serve the metro area. The spas offer hand and foot treatments and hair removal services, and it is a certified provider of Xtreme Lashes for eyelash extensions. The nine types of massages offered range from 30 to 90 minutes long, but all are designed to leave clients feeling relaxed and satisfied. Aqua even has sinus relief massages and pre-natal massages. Men should feel free to pamper themselves, too—Aqua has two facial treatments made specifically for dudes. —Kathleen M. Mitchell and Briana Robinson Second: Body Anew Medical Spa (113 W. Jackson St., Suite 1A, Ridgeland, 601-605-0452) Third: Drench Day Spa (118 W. Jackson St., Suite 2B, Ridgeland, 601-707-5656) / Good Showing: Mon Ami Spa & Laser Center (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 128, 601-366-7721); Sanctuary Body Spa (340 Township Ave., Suite 200, Ridgeland, 601-790-2222); Skin District (2629 Courthouse Circle, Suite B, Flowood, 601-981-7546)

Best Flower Shop: Greenbrook Flowers 705 N. State St., 601-957-1951, greenbrookflowers.com

January 23 - 29, 2013

SHAWANDA JACOME

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow compared kind words to flowers, Vincent van Gogh painted cheery sunflowers and, according to Mint.com, in 2011 Americans spent an average of $73 per flower arrangement around Valentine’s Day. Why do we do this? Because flowers are beautiful, and they make people smile. Since 1917, Greenbrook Flowers has provided flowers and smiles to the people of Jackson. It offers a variety of fresh flowers for all occasions, including birthdays, anniversaries, weddings, sympathy, proms and even the arrival of a new baby. In 1994, Greenbrook initiated Good Neighbor Day to promote “a return to neighborliness in this community.” Every September on Good Neighbor Day, Greenbrook gives away a dozen roses to each person who visits the shop. The first year, the store gave out 15,000 flowers. They asked people to keep one rose and give 11 others away to 11 different people. —ShaWanda Jacome

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Second: A Daisy a Day Flowers & Gifts (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 194, 601-982-4438) Third: Mostly Martha’s (353 Highway 51, Ridgeland, 601-956-1474) / Good Showing: Drake’s Designs (1491 Canton Mart Road, 601-957-6983); Green Oak (5009 Old Canton Road, 601-956-5017); Whitley’s Flowers (740 Lakeland Drive, 601-362-8844)

When it comes to looking for a good time, Salsa Mississippi is where to start. Every Saturday night, it hosts a free, hour-long dance class 9 p.m. and a Latin dance party ($10 cover charge, $5 with student ID) starting promptly after. Owners Sujan and Sarah Ghimire are super enthusiastic and teach some of the classes offered throughout the week. They and the rest of the talented staff offer salsa, bachata, zumba, bellydancing, and hip-hop lessons in the evenings. Be prepared to learn from truly passionate dancers. Sujan started dancing at age 7 and opened Salsa Mississippi in 2009 with Sarah. The studio has earned Best Dance Studio/Best Dance Lessons each year in Best of Jackson since then. —Briana Robinson Second: Mississippi Metropolitan Dance Association (110 Homestead Drive, Madison, 601853-4508) / Third: Ballet Magnificat! (5406 Interstate 55 N., 601-977-1001) / Good Showing: Ballet Mississippi (201 E. Pascagoula St., Suite 106, 601-960-1560); Dance Unlimited (6787 S. Siwell Road, Suite A, Byram, 601-373-6143); Dollhouse Dance Factory (1410 Ellis Ave., 601-969-4000)

Best Fitness Center/Gym: Baptist Healthplex 717 Manship St., 601-968-1766; 102 Clinton Parkway, Clinton, 601-925-7900, mbhs.org

No matter your starting point, Baptist Health Complex can help you stick to your New Year’s resolutions. Plan to run the Mississippi Blues Marathon next year? Bike across the South? Or just squeeze into your skinny jeans? Baptist can help, offering 14 different exercise programs, designed to cater to newbies and pros alike. The Baptist Healthplex has a cushioned indoor track, shock-absorbent aerobics floor, 2-meter indoor heated lap pool, whirlpool, strength fitness system, Schwinn Airdyne exercise bicycles, recumbent bicycles, treadmills, stair masters, seated steppers and more. It’s is a one-stop shop to assist you into realizing your fitness dreams. —Whitney Menogan Second: The Club (Multiple Locations, theclubms.com) / Third: YMCA (Multiple Locations, metroymcams.org) / Good Showing: Anytime Fitness (Multiple Locations, anytimefitness.com); The Courthouse Racquet and Fitness (Multiple Locations, mscourthouse.com); Knockout Fitness (205 Belle Meade Pointe, Flowood, 769-233-7901)

Best Garden Supply/Nursery: Lakeland Yard and Garden Center 4210 Lakeland Drive, 601-939-7304, lakelandyardandgarden.com

For all your outdoor supply needs, visit Lakeland Yard and Garden Center. It has been servicing the community since 1980. The store offers top-quality plants from the best growers in the United States as well as furniture, outdoor fountains and garden accessories. It carries seasonal items as well for every season and offers store specials weekly. The friendly and knowledgeable staff is there to help with landscape, agronomy, horticulture and agriculture. You can follow the center on Twitter for updates and special offers @LakelandYG, or find it on Facebook. —Elyane Alexander Second: Callaway Yard & Garden (839 S. Pear Orchard Road, Ridgeland, 601-957-1731) / Third: Green Oak (5009 Old Canton Road, 601-956-5034) / Good Showing: The Everyday Gardener (2905 Old Canton Road, 601-981-0273); Hutto’s Home and Garden Center (1320 Ellis Ave., 601-973-2277); Martinson’s Garden Works (650 Highway 51, Ridgeland, 601-856-3078)

WILLIAM PATRICK BUTLER

Apparently being a geek is the new cool. With shows like “The Walking Dead” and “The Big Bang Theory” dominating television and movies like “The Avengers” and “The Dark Knight Rises” as the two highest-grossing movies in 2012, it appears that zombie-hunting, Klingon-lovin’ fan boys have a new level of social status. Luckily, Captain Danny and the crew at Heroes and Dreams can supply all the nerdery you can take, from Doctor Who memorabilia to graphic novels to classic comics. Wednesdays are new book days, so come by and check out the freshest items in stock. Stay for dinner club or to watch a classic science fiction or horror film with other aficionados. —Michael Jacome

Best Kids Event: Kidfest Ridgeland

Best Liquor/Wine Store: Kats Wine and Spirits

Question: Where can you go in the Jackson metro area to see live alligator wrestling? Answer: Kidfest Ridgeland. Last year at the annual festival, Gator Boy, aka Jimmy Riffle of Animal Planet’s “Gator Boys” TV show, took on a full-grown alligator. The festival offers four days of affordable family fun over two weekends. For one price, kids can run around for hours taking in all the attractions. Whether it’s watching the sea lion splash, the Fearless Flores family riding their motorcycles in the Globe of Death or meeting Dora the Explorer and SpongeBob SquarePants—the fun doesn’t stop. Check out the Cowboy Monkey Rodeo, an Easter-egg hunt, a backyard circus, pony and train rides and a magic tent with local magician. When April rolls around, I know where I’ll be. Hope you join the fun! —Michael Jacome

One of my tried-and-true places for an unparalleled selection of wine and spirit is Kats. With a slogan of “Vintage Character Since 1966,” Kats is more than just a place to pick up a bottle of wine. It offers planning services to ensure you don’t run out of libations during your special gathering, and you can call ahead to have wine pre-pulled before you arrive. For the wine novice or enthusiast, Kats provides a wealth of information on its website and in-store regarding wine pairings, top wines, best deals, charitable tastings and other educational events. To top it all off, Kats is committed to being green. It recycles all cardboard, paper waste, plastic and aluminum. —ShaWanda Jacome

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

Second: WellsFest (wellschurch.org) / Third: Mississippi Children’s Museum (2145 Highland Drive, 601-981-5469) / Good Showing: Boo at the Zoo (October, 2918 W. Capitol St., 601-352-2580); Mississippi State Fair (October, 1200 Mississippi St., 601-362-6121); Pump It Up (1576 Old Fannin Road, Suite P, 601-992-5866); Zippity Doo Dah (March, zippitydoodahparade.com)

Second: Fondren Cellars (633 Duling Ave., 769-216-2323) / Third: Briarwood Wine and Spirits (4949 Old Canton Road, 601-956-5108 or 601-956-5916 / Good Showing: Corkscrew (4800 Interstate 55 N. Frontage Road, Suite 32B, 601-981-1333); Joe T’s (286 Highway 51 N., Ridgeland, 601-605-7602); McDade’s Wine and Spirits (1220 E. Northside Drive, Suite 320, 601-366-5676)

Best Martial Arts Studio: Gracie South Jiu-Jitsu

Best Place for a First Date: Babalu Tacos & Tapas

5352 Lakeland Drive, Suite 1400, Flowood, 601-502-7634, graciesouth.com As a father, I have taught my son our family motto: It it is not the size of the dog in the fight that counts but the size of the fight in the dog. Martial arts can help you or your child develop the discipline needed to protect yourself. While all of these winning studios promote this idea, it is nowhere more true than at Gracie South, where instructors teach kickboxing, submission wrestling and the world-renowned Jiujitsu. Others studios offer different martial arts such as Kung Fu, Tae Kwon Do and Hapkido. And even though life is not a training montage from “The Karate Kid” or the “Rocky” movies, it doesn’t mean you can’t watch the movies after you get home. —Michael Jacome Second: Academy of Kung Fu (626 Ridgewood Road, Suite C, Ridgeland, 601-856-5051) / Third: Jason Griffin’s Tae Kwon Do Academy (103 Christian Drive, Suite D, Brandon, 601824-0058; 125 Dyess Road, Ridgeland, 601-977-9000) / Good Showing: Knockout Fitness and MMA (205 Belle Meade Pointe, Flowood, 769-233-7901); Martial Arts Academy (2160 Main St., Suite F, Madison, 601-898-5555; 1149 Old Fannin Road Suite. 8, Brandon, 601-9194000); West’s Hapkido Academy (291 Highway 51, Ridgeland, 601-856-8487)

Best Men’s Clothes: The Rogue

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

The Rogue is the leading shopping experience for men in Jackson. The store has something for every man in (nearly) every situation: working in the office, tailgating at a football game, or having dinner with family and friends. The Rogue offers suits, sportswear and casual wear from more than 30 top-name brands to choose from, such as Thomas Dean, Oxxford, Cole Haan, Hush Puppies and Sandro. The experienced staff members at this high-end men’s store is sure to find you a stylish look for any event. The Rogue carries boys’ clothing as well, including khaki pants, button-down shirts and sweaters. —Elyane Alexander Second: Kinkade’s Fine Clothing (120 W. Jackson St., Suite 2B, 601898-0513) / Third: Great Scott (4400 Old Canton Road, Suite 100, 601-984-3500)/ Good Showing: Jos. A. Bank (4870 I 55 N., 601366-9711); Mozingo Clothiers (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 140, 601-713-7848); Red Square Clothing Co. (1000 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite 9004, Ridgeland, 601-853-8960)

622 Duling Ave., Suite 106, 601-366-5757, babalums.com

A first date can be a high-pressure situation. Take the edge off by taking that special someone to Babalu Tacos and Tapas. With a vibe that’s upscale but a price range that is accessible, Babalu is neither underwhelming nor intimidating. The restaurant has a dressy-casual feel that somehow manages to meet all levels of expectation, whether your date shows up in jeans and sneaks or a cocktail dress and heels. The concept of tapas—ordering several small plates to share—is ideal for dates, and the full bar with signature drinks such as the Pepe O’Malley and Baba-Blue ensures conversation will flow easily. Fresh food, funky décor and friendly staff all add to the experience. All you have to worry about is whether you’ve got something in your teeth. —Kathleen M. Mitchell Second: Keifer’s (705 Poplar Blvd., 601-355-6825; 120 N. Congress St., 601-353-4976) / Third: Table 100 (100 Ridge Way, Flowood, 601-420-4202) / Good Showing: Char Restaurant (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 142, 601-956-9562 ); Cups: An Espresso Cafe (Multiple Locations, cupsespressocafe.com); Julep Restaurant and Bar (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 105, 601362-1411); Walker’s Drive-In (3016 N. State St., 601-982-2633)

Best Mechanic: Graves and Stoddard Inc.

Best Place to Buy Antiques: Antique Mall of the South

The stereotype of shady mechanics is as popular as the idea of lawyers chasing ambulances. Graves and Stoddard continues to defy this typecasting with its commitment to serving customers. Specializing in Asian imports, Graves and Stoddard has also extended its knowledge base to include domestic vehicles so that just about any customer is in good hands with the experienced mechanics. It’s hard enough bumming a ride; at least these guys won’t rip you off. —Michael Jacome

A good antique store is like a trip through history and a treasure hunt all in one. While wandering through the vendors’ booths at the Antique Mall of the South—each its own little vignette—I like to imagine the past of all the items, never knowing what piece will become my musthave: a glass pitcher from the ’60s, an old door to turn into a tabletop or, once, a mink muff. At Old House Depot, Jim Kopernak’s warehouse holds old wood, windows, fireplaces and more—and if you’re on the lookout for something specific, he’ll source it for you. Flowood Flea Market includes architectural salvage and a traditional antiques mall, while Interiors Market offers unique items as well as special events such as wine tastings. —Julie Skipper

Second: Putnam’s Automotive Service Inc. (4879 N. State St., 601-366-1886) / Third: Southland Auto Service Center (5448 N State St., 601-362-2253) / Good Showing: Car Care Clinic Jet Lube Tire & Automotive (Multiple Locations); Justin Morgan; Kyle Rigdon (speedproductions.net/)

Second (tie): Old House Depot (639 Monroe St. 601592-6200); Flowood Flea Market (1325 Flowood Drive, Flowood, 601-953-5914) / Third: Interiors Market (659 Duling Ave., 601-981-6020) / Good Showing: Antique Shops of Jackson (4245 Interstate 55 N., 601-982-1881); Belgique (320 Commerce Park Drive, 601-982-6060); Repeat Street (242 Highway 51, Ridgeland, 601-605-9123)

722 Highway 80 E., Flowood, 601-939-3662

367 Highway 51, Ridgeland, 601-853-4000

jacksonfreepress.com

Freedom Ridge Park, 235 W. School St., Ridgeland, 601-853-2011, kidfestridgeland.com

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Best Place to Buy Books: Lemuria Books

TOM RAMSEY

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

John Evans, owner of Lemuria Books, really sought to cater to the avid readers of Jackson. The book shop that started in 1975 is thriving due to its great selection of first edition contemporary and classic books, as well as a solid inventory. Lemuria is known for its First Edition Club for adults, where the bookstore features national and award-winning books from authors such as Charles Frazier, author of “Cold Mountain” and “Nightwoods.” The Oz is the children’s first edition club and encourages young people to read. Neither club has membership fees. Just purchase your books and join in on the fun. Lemuria also offers online shopping to buy the signed first editions. —LaShanda Phillips Second: Book Rack (1491 Canton Mart Square, Suite 7, 601-956-5086; 584 Springridge Road, Suite C, Clinton, 601-924-9020) / Third: JSU Bookstore (Jackson State University, Student Center, 1400 John R. Lynch St., 601-979-2021) / Good Showing: The Bookshelf (637 Highway 51, Suite AA, Ridgeland, 601-853-9225); Choctaw Books (926 North St., 601-3527281); Lifeway Christian Resources (1057 E. County Line Road, 601-952-1934)

Best Tanning Salon: Solar 51

One of the movies we love to watch during Christmas in our home is “Home Alone 2: Lost in New York.” In the movie, Kevin asks his limo driver to take him to Duncan’s Toy Chest. Duncan’s harkens back to the nostalgic way a toy store used to be—warm, inviting and full of charm. Luckily, you don’t have to go all the way to New York City to find such a store. Highland Village is the home of one of Jackson’s special jewels, Olde Tyme Commissary. Since 1972, the store has been selling children’s toys and costumes, fine-tailored baby clothes, and educational toys and games. One of its specialties is hand-painted and personalized gifts, offering an assortment of items including table and chair sets, rocking chairs, step stools, bulletin boards, piggy banks, music boxes, jewelry boxes, toy boxes and buckets that can be decorated for Easter, Christmas, Halloween or with your child’s favorite football team. —Michael Jacome Second: The Children’s Place (1200 E. County Line Road, Suite 127, Ridgeland, 601206-1162 and 122 Dogwood Blvd., Flowood, 601-919-9717) / Third: Leap Frog Children’s Consignment and More (104 Village Blvd., Madison, 601-898-0727) / Good Showing: Helen’s Young Ages (4750 Interstate 55 N., 601-362-0317); Pop Fizz (1481 Canton Mart Road, Suite E, 601-977-1000); Sweet Dreams Children’s Boutique (1888 Main St., Suite A, Madison, 601-856-2080)

2771 Old Canton Road, 601-362-8484

Second: Sun Gallery (6712 Old Canton Road, Ridgeland, 601-957-7502; 2720 N. State St, 601-366-5811) / Third: Reservoir Tan (132 Lakeland Heights Blvd., Flowood, 601992-3535) / Good Showing: Beach Bodies Tanning Salon (126 Byram Business Center Drive, 601-373-6105); Breeze Airbrush Tanning & Day Spa (1189 Old Fannin Road, Suite E, Brandon, 601-502-7303); Salon 51 (637 Highway 51, Ridgeland, 601-856-4663)

Best Thrift/Consignment Store: Repeat Street 242 Highway 51, Ridgeland, 601-605-9123

COURTESY REPEAT STREET

As one who never met a theme party she didn’t like, I know how important it is to know exactly where you can find a shoulder-padded bejeweled ’80s jumpsuit or an early ’90s sequined prom dress with ruffled shoulders the size of your head on short notice. Repeat Street is that place. In addition to great vintage pieces, their new location allows even more room for their selection of gently worn, neatly organized contemporary clothing and accessories, as well as furniture. The store’s Twitter feed (@RepeatSt) frequently updates with photos of new items so you can stay in the know. Whether you’re buying or reselling, consignment is a way to have some fun and go green, so be sure to check out all of this year’s finalists. —Julie Skipper Second: The Orange Peel (422 E. Mitchell Ave., 601-364.9977) / Third: N.U.T.S. (114 Millsaps Ave., 601-355-6276) / Good Showing: Bargain Boutique (5070 Parkway Drive, 601991-0500); Goodwill (Multiple Locations, goodwill.org); Plato’s Closet (1260 E. County Line Road, Ridgeland, 601-487-4207)

When you need something unique, circa. is sure to deliver because most items in the store are unique. Owners Michelle and Craig Escude populate their space with items for the home, garden, and body that are made by local, regional and national artisans. This means you can find everything from scarves and clothing to jewelry, wine racks and art, as well as cute handmade cards for those of us who still enjoy sending snail mail. The store features an artisan scent bar where you can create your own special blend of aromatics for lotions, soaps and fragrance sprays. circa. also offers a selection of artisan food products from Blackberry Farm. —Julie Skipper Second: Apple Annie’s Gift Shop (1896 Main St., Suite D, Madison, 601-853-8911; 152 Grants Ferry Road, 601-992-9925) / Third: Mississippi Craft Center (950 Rice Road, Ridgeland, 601-856-7546) / Good Showing: O How Cute Gift Market (304 E. Government St., Brandon, 601-825-5080); Persnickety Gift Shop (2078 Main St., Madison, 601-853-9595); Pine Cone (1220 E. Northside Drive, 601-713-1421)

Best Best Tattoo/Piercings Parlor: Black Diamond 5015 Interstate 55 N., 601-982-9437

Owner and tattoo artist James Thomas and artists Mallory Kay and Michael Richardson make up the dynamic team that is Black Diamond. Formerly known as The Ink Spot in downtown Jackson, the tattoo studio claimed its first first-place award this year. Folks from all over the metro area come to Black Diamond to get their ink fixes. Whether with the Chinese word for water or an “I love mom” tattoo, the artists there will give you the hook up. —Briana Robinson Second: Pristine Ink (5735 Interstate 55 N., 769-251-0569) / Third: Squench’s (3780 Interstate 55 S., 601-372-2800) / Good Showing: Eternal Body Art (3611 Interstate 55 S., 601346-5963); House of Pain (22 Holiday Rambler Lane, Byram, 601-321-9040); Twiztid Images (557 Highway 49 S., Richland, 601-664-0000)

COURTESY CIRCA

H.R.H. Jill Conner Browne, Boss Queen of the Sweet Potato Queens, is known for proclaiming, “Brown fat looks better than white fat. Everybody knows that.” I’m certainly not calling anyone fat, but seeing as how this is Sweet Potato Queen country, I do know that many a metro-area lady enjoys getting her tan on. This year’s winner, Solar 51, offers two locations and carries a range of lotions and products, along with a variety of monthly packages and beds. For those who prefer to go sunless, a number of this year’s finalists offer spray or airbrush tanning options in addition to beds. —Julie Skipper

January 23 - 29, 2013

4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 122, 601-366-1849, commissarytoys.com

Best Unique Gifts: circa. URBAN ARTISAN LIVING

398 Highway 51, Ridgeland, 601-898-1003; 727 Clinton Parkway, Clinton, 601-925-9747, solar51tan.com

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

COURTESY CUSTOM TAILORING BY AL

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

Let’s face it: Most of us don’t fit into a nice, neat set of measurements. Someone might be a size 6 in the waist, 8 in the hips and something else entirely in the torso. But that’s where tailors come in. A great tailor can take a pair of off-the-rack pants or a dress that is nearly great and make it look like it was made for only you. Luckily, Al Guevara isn’t a great tailor—he is a master. Guevara says he can handle any garment and any fabric. Lace, leather, silk? No problem. His staff can also take on specialty garments such as wedding gowns and suits, or even design and sew from scratch custom clothing. They work by appointment, to ensure each customer receives personalized attention. —Kathleen M. Mitchell Second: Michael Armstrong of Tom James Company (1775 Lelia Drive, Suite D, 601713-2034) / Third: Finishing Touch (4551 Office Park Drive, 601-362-5288) / Good Showing: Golden Touch (5355 Executive Place, 601-362-6790); Nana’s Alterations (975 North St., Suite 107, 601-969-3189); Perfect-Fit Alterations (4954 Old Canton Road, 601-991-0673)

Best Veterinarian: Briarwood Animal Hospital 1471 Canton Mart Road, 601-956-5030, briarwoodhospital.com

In business since the 1960s, first-time winner Briarwood Animal Hospital has provided superb veterinary services to generation after generation. Along with veterinarian John Roy, the Briarwood staff consists of veterinarians Leon Dale, David Dale, Michael Meadows and Melanie Jones. “We hope to stay ahead and on the leading edging of veterinary medicine, to provide the best service possible to our clients,” Roy says. In business since the 1960s, first-time winner Briarwood Animal Hospital has provided superb veterinary services to generation after generation. Along with veterinarian John Roy, the Briarwood staff consists of veterinarians Leon Dale, David Dale, Michael Meadows and Melanie Jones. Roy says, “We hope to stay ahead and on the leading edging of veterinary medicine, to provide the best service possible to our clients. —Darnell Jackson Second: North State Animal and Bird Hospital (5208 N. State St., 601-982-8261) / Third: All Creatures Animal Care Center (262 New Mannsdale Road, Madison, 601-856-5333) / Good Showing: Animal Medical Center (995 Interstate 20, 601-354-3622); Brandon Animal Hospital (205 Woodgate Drive, Brandon, 601-825-9077); Canton Road Veterinary Hospital (4960 Canton Road, 601-956-6144); Hometown Veterinary Services (1010 Highway 471, Brandon, 601-825-1697)

Best Women’s Shoes: The Shoe Bar at Pieces

Best Cleaning Service/Dry Cleaner: Kolb’s Grand Cleaners

In “Sex and the City,” modern-day everywoman Carrie Bradshaw once said, “The fact is, sometimes it’s hard to walk in a single women’s shoes. That’s why we need really special ones now and then—to make the walk a little more fun.” Single or coupled, the fact remains true … and luckily, locally we can find the perfect pair to make us feel sexy in our own city. Becky “Shoe Pimp” Hicks of The Shoe Bar at Pieces can help you find just the heels you need. Offering a mix of contemporary brands such as L.A.M.B. and Sam Edelman, along with clothing and accessories to complete your look and email updates about sales, this Fondren boutique is definitely worth a stop. —Julie Skipper

Kolb’s Grand Cleaners has been serving the Jackson area for more than 50 years since opening in 1920. Open from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays through Fridays and 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays, the cleaners prides itself on fast high-quality cleaning. Customers might be surprised by how quickly Kolb’s smiling cleaners can return their clothes spotfree, but why question success? Kolb’s staff would never question how Maya Rudolph’s wedding dress in “Bridesmaids” received such a suspicious stain. Instead, they would simply give the star a smile and the reassurance that her dress would be cleaned and retuned shortly. For cleaning emergencies of all kinds, call Kolb’s. —Mo Wilson

Butterfly Yoga has been the Best of Jackson’s Best Yoga Studio since 2011 when we added the category. Located in Fondren, Butterfly Yoga has classes for all levels of yogis. If you’re a beginner, try the Level 1 classes with Katie Cassady or Scotta Brady. For those looking for a more intense workout, Terry Sullivan teaches a tabatas class each week, and the website promises that you’ll work up a sweat. Classes start at $15 individually, but the studio is also currently offering a free Yoga Glo class at noon on Mondays. —Briana Robinson

Second: Hallmark Cleaners (Multiple Locations, hallmarkcleaners.com) / Third: Wells Cleaners (691 Grants Ferry Road, Suite B, Flowood, 601992-8855) / Good Showing: Olde Town (220 Key Drive, Madison, 601-856-7474); Summit Cleaners (450 Nakoma Drive, 601-366-9947); Trace Cleaners (398 Highway 51, Suite 100, Ridgeland, 601-853-7007)

Second: The Courthouse (46 Northtown Drive, 601956-1300) / Third: JoyFlow Yoga (7048 Old Canton Road, Suite 2F, 601-613-4317) / Good Showing: Studio OM (665 Duling Ave., 601-209-6325); Tara Yoga (200 Park Circle, Suite 4, Flowood, 601-932-7700)

Second: Earth Walk Shoes (4500 Interstate 55, Suite 144, 601-981-1975) / Third: Maison Weiss (4450 Interstate 55 N., Suite 109, 601-981-4621) / Good Showing: Cooke & Love Shoes (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 159, 601-3626088); Material Girls (182 Promenade Blvd., Flowood, 601992-4533 and Renaissance at Colony Parkway, Suite 5002, Ridgeland, 601-605-1605); Shoe Gallery (820 Wilson Drive, Ridgeland, 601-956-9414)

2933 N. State St., 601-366-1453

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

425 Mitchell Ave., 601-939-5203

Best Yoga Studio: Butterfly Yoga

jacksonfreepress.com

Best Tailor: Custom Tailoring by Al

33

Thanks For Shopping Local and voting for us in the

Best of Jackson 2013

One of Jackson’s Favorite Charities

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

NOW IN YAZOO CITY!

Best Breakfast; Best Place for Dessert; Best Plate Lunch: Primos Café

2323 Lakeland Drive, Flowood, 601-936-3398; 515 Lake Harbor Drive, Ridgeland, 601-898-3600 primoscafe.com

Best Bakery, Best Place to Buy Cakes: Campbell’s Bakery

cial occasion, Primos can take care of that too. Caramel, red velvet and Italian cream are just a few that are available. Don’t forget to stop back by for lunch for the plate specials. —Adriane Louie Best Place for Dessert

Second: Amerigo Italian Restaurant (6592 Old Canton Road, Ridgeland, 601-977-0563) / Third: Sal and Mookie’s New York Pizza and Ice Cream Joint (565 Taylor St., 601368-1919) / Good Showing: Bop’s Frozen Custard (Multiple Locations, bopsfrozencustard.com); Broad Street Baking Company (4465 Interstate 55 N., Suite 101, 601-362-2900); Char Restaurant (4500 Interstate 55, Suite 142, 601-956-9562)

Best Breakfast Second: Another Broken Egg (1000 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite 1009, Ridgeland, 601-790-9170) / Third: Broad Street Baking Company (4465 Interstate 55 N., Suite 101, 601-362-2900) / Good Showing: Beagle Bagel Café (Multiple Locations, thebeaglebagelcafe.net); Brent’s Drugs (655 Duling Ave., 601-366-3427); Corner Bakery (108 Market St., Flowood, 601-919-9797; 149 Grandview Blvd., Madison, 601-607-7377)

Best Plate Lunch Second: McDade’s Market (Multiple Locations, mcdades markets. com) / Third: Trace Grill (574 Highway 51 N., Suite F, Ridgeland, 601-853-1014) / Good Showing: Cherokee Inn (1410 Old Square Road, 601-362-6388), Cosmopolitan Café (2947 Old Canton Road, 601-9834450); Georgia Blue (111 Colony Crossing Way, Madison, 601-898-3330)

Best Burger; Best French Fries: Burgers & Blues

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

3013 N. State St., 601-362-4628, campbellsbakery.ms

TATE K NATIONS

Campbell’s Bakery is one of oldest bakeries in the Jackson area. Driving through Fondren, I am always tempted to stop and buy something decadent to satisfy that 3 p.m. craving for something sweet. This is definitely the place to find an abundant assortment of goodies, including its famous iced-tea cake cookies, which are favorites among Jacksonians. Also find a variety of cheesecakes, cake pops, cookies, brownies and petit-fours. At Halloween, the bakery’s finger-shaped lady-finger cookies are a big hit, too. Whether you are at lunch on a Wednesday or out running errands on a Saturday morning, stop by to pick up a delightful treat. —Adriane Louie

COURTESY SHAWANDA JACOME

Primos Café offers a variety of breakfast plates Monday through Saturday beginning at 6:30 a.m., including the earlybird platter, pancakes with your choice of sausage or bacon, a breakfast sandwich or wrap. If you want a healthier breakfast, Primos serves oatmeal, English muffins or granola with yogurt. You can top it all off with a cup or bowl of fresh fruit. Of course, on your way out, don’t forget to pick up an afternoon treat for yourself or for everyone in the office. The bakery case is always stocked with chocolate chip, oatmeal and sugar cookies as well as lemon squares, pecan tarts and petit fours. If you need a cake for a spe-

The perfect burger has to strike a balance between all kinds of elements: juicy but not undercooked, thick but not too meaty, topped with veggies and condiments but not drowning in distracting flavors. But when the right elements come together, it’s magic. Burgers & Blues is still one of Jackson’s youngest burger joints, but it has claimed the title of “best” for the third year in a row, thanks to signature servings like “The Sonic Boom” and “The County Line.” The menu boasts an extensive list of toppings, from the standard lettuce, tomato and onion, all the way to grilled pineapple, pimento cheese and peanut butter sauce. Burgers & Blues has also gained national attention, appearing on the Travel Channel’s “Man vs. Food” for its Whammy burger eating challenge. This year, JFP readers also recognized Steven and Jen Sahler’s restaurant for its fresh-cut home fries. French-fry connoisseurs can enjoy these never-frozen sides smothered in chili and cheese or country-style gravy and cheese. The fact that you can also listen to live music every

week or catch a highly anticipated game on TV is just, er, ketchup on the burger. —Kathleen M. Mitchell Best Burger Second: Mugshots Grill & Bar (4245 Lakeland Drive, Flowood, 601-932-4031) / Third: Stamps Superburger (1801 Dalton St., 601-352-4555) / Good Showing: Cool Al’s (4654 McWillie Drive, 601-713-3020); Five Guys Burgers and Fries (122 Market St., Flowood, 601-919-1995; 1000 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite 2001, Ridgeland, 601-605-1115); Majestic Burger (1067 Highland Colony Parkway, Ridgeland, 601-707-0093)

Best French Fries Second: Cool Al’s (4654 McWillie Drive, 601-713-3020) / Third: Mugshots Grill & Bar (4245 Lakeland Drive, 601932-4031) / Good Showing: Five Guys Burgers and Fries (122 Market St., Flowood, 601-919-1995; 1000 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite 2001, Ridgeland, 601-605-1115); Rooster’s (2906 N. State St., 601-982-2001); Stamps Superburger (1801 Dalton St., 601-352-4555)

Best Bakery

Best Place to Buy Cakes Second: Primos Café (2323 Lakeland Drive, Flowood, 601-936-3398; 515 Lake Harbor Drive, Ridgeland, 601898-3600) / Third: That Special Touch (2769 Old Brandon Road, Pearl, 601-932-5223) / Good Showing: Crazy Cat Bakers (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 173, 601-3627448); Dream Cakes (1006 Top St., Suite D, Flowood, 601992-2708); Fat Cake Guy (5352 Lakeland Drive, Suite 2000, Flowood, 601-992-9623)

Barbecue; Best Place for Ribs: E & L Barbecue Best Barbecue, 1111 Bailey Ave., 601-355-5035

Voted repeatedly as Jackson’s best finger-lickin’ good place for ribs, E & L Barbecue has also been voted the best place for barbecue this year. Its sweet, smoky sauce is so mighty darn good that some people even put their fries in the stuff; I added it to my beans and loved it. E & L Barbecue serves you a lot for your money, even if it is in a Styrofoam box. Most orders are take-out, but whatever your choice, E & L’s meat is always tender and delicious. And if you like smoked turkey legs, this is your place to be. The potato salad is tasty, too. —Susan Hogan Best Barbecue Second: Hickory Pit (1491 Canton Mart Road, 601-

956-7079) / Third: Sonny’s Real Pit Bar-B-Q (2603 Highway 80 W., 601-355-7434; 1374 W. Government St., Brandon, 601-825-7675) / Good Showing: Chimneyville Smokehouse (970 High St., 601-354-4665); Haute Pig (1856 Main St., Madison, 601-853-8538); State Street Barbeque (960 N. State St., 601-961-3433)

Best Place for Ribs Second: Sonny’s Real Pit Bar-B-Q (2603 Highway 80 W., 601-355-7434; 1374 W. Government St., Brandon, 601825-7675) / Third: Hickory Pit (1491 Canton Mart Road, 601-956-7079) / Good Showing: Chimneyville Smokehouse (970 High St., 601-354-4665); Haute Pig (1856 Main St., Madison, 601-853-8538); State Street Barbeque (960 N. State St., 601-961-3433)

jacksonfreepress.com

Second: Broad Street Baking Company (4465 Interstate 55 N., Suite 101, 601-362-2900) / Third: Primos Café (2323 Lakeland Drive, Flowood, 601-936-3398; 515 Lake Harbor Drive, Ridgeland, 601-898-3600) / Good Showing: Beagle Bagel Café (Multiple Locations, thebeaglebagelcafe.net); Corner Bakery (108 Market St., Flowood, 601-919-9797; 149 Grandview Blvd., Madison, 601-607-7377); Great Harvest Bread Company (5006 Parkway Drive, 601-9564406; 500 Highway 51, Ridgeland, 601-856-3313)

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Best Place for Healthy Food; Best Vegetarian Options: High Noon Café

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

2807 Old Canton Road, 601-366-1602, ext. 3

Upon entering Aladdin in Fondren, you are greeted by the warm, cozy décor of amber-hued walls, dim lighting and the aroma of well-seasoned meat sizzling on the grill. The restaurant’s location near a crossroad serves as a metaphor for owner Yoseph Ali’s country of origin—Ethiopia. It takes no more than a cursory look at a historical spice trade map to see that Ethiopia was en route to Greece and the Mediterranean in the west, Persia and India in the south and east. Ali, who does all of the cooking at Aladdin, doesn’t hail from the region, but he speaks Arabic and is wellversed in the Mediterranean recipes. His brother Ibrahim confirmed Ali’s knowledge of Mid Eastern Cooking. “Yoseph learned all the recipes we use from a Mid-Eastern chef that used to work here,” Ibrahim says. “He taught him everything.” The most popular dish at Aladdin is the grilled lamb chops served on a bed of saffron basmati rice. Follow them up with Aladdin’s Ethiopian baklava, a delicious layered pastry of filo dough, crushed nuts and honey. Its light and crisp with just the right amount of sweet to not overpower—a perfect, low-guilt dessert—and excellent with mint tea or Turkish coffee. —Genevieve Legacy

High Noon Café offers all the items you expect at a vegetarian outpost: salads, veggie burgers, beans and rice and soups. But there are also more than a few surprises for the adventurous vegan- and veggie-curious. Try the Portobello Caesar salad, create-your-own quesadillas, roasted veggie sandwich or the popular “Harmony Bowl” of marinated tofu and steamed vegetables over brown rice with a warmed peanut sauce— it’s perfect with High Noon’s ginger lemonade. Dessert offerings, such as lemon pound cake and blueberry almond cake, are made with organic ingredients. High Noon chef Troy Woodson’s description of the Good Burger—black eyed peas sautéed with onions, thyme, marjoram, Worcestershire sauce and ketchup with panko bread crumbs—puts a new spin on a southern classic and proves that High Noon goes beyond expectations. “We’re a brain-child of Rainbow—the only food co-op in Jackson that caters to vegetarians. There are a lot of like-minded people in this area,” Woodson says about High Noon’s popularity. High Noon’s menu, however, offers enough variety and creativity to serve a much broader scope of restaurant and food lovers. —Genevieve Legacy TRIP BURNS

Best Ethnic Restaurant; Best Mediterranean/Middle Eastern: Aladdin Mediterranean Grill

Best Place for Healthy Food Second: Bruno’s Adobo (127 S. Roach St., Suite 1200, 601-944-9501) / Third: Rainbow Natural Grocery Cooperative (2807 Old Canton Road, 601-366-1602) / Good Showing: Aladdin Mediterranean Grill (730 Lakeland Drive, 601-366-6033); Jason’s Deli (1067 E. County Line Road, 601-206-9191); Newk’s Express Café (Multiple Locations, newks.com)

Best Vegetarian Options

Best Ethnic Restaurant

Second: Aladdin Mediterranean Grill (730 Lakeland Drive 601-366-6033) / Third: Bruno’s Adobo (127 S. Roach St., Suite 1200, 601-944-9501) / Good Showing: BRAVO! Italian Restaurant and Bar (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 244, 601-982-8111); Rainbow Natural Grocery Cooperative (2807 Old Canton Road, 601-366-1602); Spice Avenue (4711 Interstate 55 N., 601-982-0890); Table 100 (100 Ridge Way, Flowood, 601-420-4202)

Second: Spice Avenue (4711 Interstate 55 N., 601-982-0890) / Third: Abeba Ethiopian Restaurant (3716 Interstate 55 N., 601-713-1500) / Good Showing: Babalu Tacos and Tapas (622 Duling Ave., Suite 106, 601-366-5757); Saigon (2640 Lakeland Drive, Flowood, 601420-4848); Thai House (1405 Old Square Road, 601-982-9991)

Best Mediterranean/ Middle Eastern Second: Mediterranean Fish and Grill (6550 Old Canton Road, Ridgeland, 601-956-0082) / Third: Petra Café (2741 Old Canton Road, 601-366-0161) / Good Showing: Abeba Ethiopian Restaurant (3716 Interstate 55 N., 601-713-1500); Keifer’s (710 Poplar Blvd., 601355-6825); Mezza (1896 Main St., Madison, 601-853-0876) Spice Avenue (4711 Interstate 55 N., 601-982-0890)

Best Lunch Buffet; Best Soul Food: Mama Hamil’s Southern Cookin’ 480 Magnolia St., Madison, 601-856-4407, hamils.com

Best Kids Menu; Best Place for Ice Cream: Sal & Mookie’s New York Pizza and Ice Cream Joint It’s Saturday afternoon, and you are looking for the perfect place to take the kids to eat as well as a great place to relax with a scoop of your favorite ice cream. Well, Sal & Mookie’s is just the place for you. It provides a great family atmosphere that is full of fun. The ice cream menu has sweet treats to suit your taste buds whether you are in the mood for a classic root-beer float or an ice-cream soda. The choices are endless and sure to please. The kids also have an long menu to choose from, including chicken tenders, pizza, pasta and paninis. At Sal & Mookie’s, you are sure to find something tasty that suits the desires of everyone in the family. —Adriane Louie Best Kids Menu

January 23 - 29, 2013

Second: McAlister’s Deli (Multiple Locations, mcalistersdeli.com) / Third (tie): Newk’s Express Café (Multiple Locations, newks.com); Primos Café (2323 Lakeland Drive, 601-936-3398; 515 Lake Harbor Drive, Ridgeland, 601-898-3600) / Good Showing: Broad Street Baking Company (4465 Interstate 55 N., Suite 101, 601-362-2900); Burgers & Blues (1060 E. County Line Road, Suite 22, Ridgeland, 601-899-0038)

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Best Place for Ice Cream Second: Bop’s Frozen Custard (Multiple Locations, bopsfrozencustard.com) / Third: Cold Stone Creamery (1888 Main St., Suite B, Madison, 601-853-7400) / Good Showing: Berry Berry Good Yogurt (545 Parkway, Flowood, 601-992-2786; 111 Colony Crossing, Suite 490, Madison, 601-898-8286; 1060 Highway 51, Suite A-1, Madison, 769-300-0195); Brent’s Drugs (655 Duling Ave., 601-366-3427); Sweet Tree Yogurt (772 Lake Harbour Drive, Suite 5, Ridgeland, 601-707-5491)

TRIP BURNS

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

For many southerners, there’s nothing quite as comforting as their mama’s homecooked meals. They’re just good for the heart and soul. The next best thing may be the food from the buffet at Mama Hamil’s Southern Cookin’ in Madison. With an ever-overflowing parking lot, Mama Hamil’s has been a magnet for southern cooking and soul food aficionados since 1977. After taking over in 1994, owner Bob Hamil became the fourth generation of southern cooks to carry the Hamil torch. The larger building, opened in 2007, allows more room for everyone to enjoy a buffet with the finest home-style meats: fried chicken, chicken and dumplings, barbecue ribs, and meat loaf. Whether you’re looking to eat your fill from an all-you-can-eat country buffet or feeling homesick for your mother’s cooking, taking a trip to Mama Hamil’s will please your appetite, taste buds and soul. —Andrew Dunaway Best Lunch Buffet Second: Two Sisters Kitchen (707 N. Congress St., 601-353-1180) / Third: Ichiban (359 Ridge Way, Flowood, 601-919-8879) / Good Showing: Country Fisherman (3110 Highway 80, 601-944-9933); Spice Avenue (4711 Interstate 55 N., 601-982-0890); Thai House (1405 Old Square Road, 601-982-9991)

Best Soul Food Second: Two Sisters Kitchen (707 N. Congress St., 601-353-1180) / Third: Peaches (327 N. Farish St., 601-354-9267) / Good Showing: Bully’s Restaurant (3118 Livingston Road, 601-362-0484); Collins Dream Kitchen (1439 Terry Road, 601-353-3845); Gloria’s Kitchen (2855 Bailey Ave., Suite A, 601-362-0009)

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Thank You For Voting Us One of the Best!

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Future.

Valentine ’s Day

THANK YOU for voting us a finalist in

Thank You! Thank You For Voting Us Finalist In • BEST NEW RESTAURANT • PLACE TO EAT HEALTHY FOOD • VEGETARIAN OPTIONS • MOST INNOVATIVE MENU • VEGGIE BURGER • BEST CHEF (LUIS BRUNO) 127 S Roach St. Standard Life Bldg. Downtown Jackson 601.944.9501 Monday - Friday 11:00 am - 6:30 pm

Best Ethnic Restaurant Best Asian Restaurant

The Louisiana Culinary Institute The Premier Culinary School of the South Convenient Day and Night Classes Programs: • Baking & Pastry • Culinary Arts

888-301-0961 www.LCIforyou.com

Specials & Rewards Text 71441

1405 Old Square Rd. • Jackson

601.982.9991

-Voted Best of Jackson- 2003 - 2012 Mon - Fri: Lunch 11-2 Dinner 5- 9:30 • Sat: 4-9:30

1149 Old Fannin Road • Brandon

Kim Goodson

5647 Highway 80 East • Pearl

“I make buying and selling FUN!�

601-992-6686 601-932-8728

Both Locations Open 7 Days A Week

Broker Associate, GRI

CRYE-LEIKE REALTORS

January 23 - 29, 2013

T HANK Y OU F OR Y OUR V OTES

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Mon-Sat: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. 601-362-9553 Find Us On Facebook zz

& Best Lunch Buffet

Best of Jackson 2013 Finalist One of the Best Places to Get Coffee

Order Early Online www.nandyscandy.com

coffee • culture • community

601-960-3008 koinoniacoffee.net 136 S. Adams Street in Jackson (Adams & Metro Pkwy between Downtown & JSU)

New Listing!

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Lunch Buffet • 11-2 Lunch Buffet: Mon - Fri • 11am - 2pm Sat & Sun • 11.30am - 2.30pm Dinner: Mon - Sun • 5 - 10pm

862 Avery Blvd • Ridgeland, MS 601-991-3110 • ruchiindia.com

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jacksonfreepress.com

Best Meal Under $10; Best Sandwich Place: Newk’s Express Café

Best Beer Selection: The Bulldog

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

Multiple Locations, newks.com

Best Meal under $10 Second: Basil’s (904 E. Fortification St., Suite B, 601-352-2002; 2906 N. State St., 601982-2100) / Third: Brent’s Drugs (655 Duling Ave., 601-366-3427) / Good Showing: Cherokee Inn (1410 Old Square Road, 601-362-6388); Keifer’s (710 Poplar Blvd., 601355-6825; 120 N. Congress St., 601-353-4976); Primos Café (2323 Lakeland Drive, Flowood, 601-936-3398; 515 Lake Harbor Drive, Ridgeland, 601-898-3600)

TATE K NATIONS

Newk’s is sure to accommodate many crowds with locations in almost every part of the tri-county area. It is an easy place to stop at on your way home for a quick and tasty meal that won’t weigh you down. Choose from a variety of freshly tossed salads, oven-baked sandwiches, pizzas and homemade desserts. If you don’t have time to wait, you can grab a meal from the “grab and go” station. Planning an office meeting or party? Newk’s also has a catering menu. Check its website for daily homemade soup options —the loaded potato is my favorite. —Adriane Louie

Three months after she became The Bulldog’s general manager in April 2012, Valerie Alexander’s job become a lot more complicated—in July a new state law let Mississippi liquor stores and bars sell beer with higher alcohol content. Alexander knew right away that the pub would get Louisiana-based Abita’s higher gravity stuff, including Andygator, a helles bock, and Jockamo, an IPA. Recently, The Bulldog added Coors Batch 19, which the brewery touts as a pre-Prohibition lager, she said. The Bulldog also overhauled its beer menu to include more information about the beer’s origins, alcohol-by-volume content and International Bittering Units, a measurement of a beer’s bitterness. From time to time, Alexander also determines which beers on the Bulldog’s 62 taps aren’t selling well so she can bring in new beers, on average once or twice per week. “We keep them constantly rotating. There’s always something new on tap,” she said. —R.L. Nave Second: McDade’s Market (Multiple Locations, mcdadesmarkets.com) / Third: Martin’s Lounge (214 S. State St., 601-354-9712) / Good showing: Buffalo Wild Wings (808 Lake Harbour Drive, Ridgeland, 601-856-0789); Hal & Mal’s (200 S. Commerce St., 601-9480888); Sal & Mookie’s New York Pizza and Ice Cream Joint (565 Taylor St., 601-368-1919)

Best Sandwich Place Second: Broad Street Baking Company (4465 Interstate 55 N., Suite 101, 601-362-2900) / Third: Basil’s (904 E. Fortification St., Suite B, 601-352-2002; 2906 N. State St., 601982-2100) / Good Showing: Beagle Bagel Café (Multiple Locations, thebeaglebagelcafe.net); Jason’s Deli (1067 E. County Line Road, 601-206-9191); McAlister’s Deli (Multiple Locations, mcalistersdeli.com)

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

Second: Ichiban Sushi and Chinese Buffet (153 Ridge Way, Flowood, 601-919-0097) / Third: King Buffet (6380 Ridgewood Court Drive, Suite I, 601-956-6700) / Good Showing: Best Wok Chinese Restaurant (225 Meadowbrook Road, 601-368-9555); China Belle (1855 Lakeland Drive, Suite E10, 601-368-9588); Ding How Asian Bistro (6955 Old Canton Road, Ridgeland, 601-956-1717); Five Happiness Chinese Restaurant (2931 McDowell Road Extension, 601-371-8765)

Best Brunch: Julep Restaurant and Bar

January 23 - 29, 2013

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

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Julep Restaurant and Bar is made for whiling away a weekend morning with great friends and endless mimosas. The brunch menu at Julep includes dishes that are both sweet and savory. Menu items include New Orleans-style beignets, Julep quiche and the Julep breakfast sandwich. If that doesn’t whet your appetite, maybe the shrimp and grits or the banana French toast will. Brunch is served weekends 10 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. Don’t forget to try the award-winning fried chicken, which is fried and tossed in a honey rosemary glaze. It was selected as one of the top 10 in the nation by USA Today. —Adriane Louie Second: Nick’s Restaurant (3000 Old Canton Road, 601-981-8017) / Third: Another Broken Egg (1000 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite 1009, Ridgeland, 601-790-9170) / Good Showing: Char Restaurant (4500 Interstate 55, Suite 142, 601-956-9562); Que Será Será (2801 N. State St., 601-981-2520); Table 100 (100 Ridge Way, Flowood, 601-420-4202)

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

When it comes to Asian food, I’m a big fan. I enjoy the combination of sweet, spicy and savory coming together in perfect harmony. I can’t think of a better place to try dishes from areas like Thailand, China, Vietnam, Mongolia and India than at reigning champ Pan-Asia. On its delightful menu, you’ll find edamame, Vietnamese spring rolls, sizzling Tandoori salad, Mongolian beef and lamb and green curry. You can enjoy an assortment of maki rolls, nigiri, sashimi and bento boxes for the kids. To wash it down, take advantage of one of its all-day drink specials: Beer Monday (half-priced select beers), Sake Tuesday (half-priced sake), Wine Down Wednesday (half-priced bottles of wine) and Martini Thursday (half-priced signature martinis). —ShaWanda Jacome Second (tie): Thai House (1405 Old Square Road, 601-982-9991); Mr. Chen’s Authentic Chinese Cooking (5465 Interstate 55 N., 601-978-1865) / Third: Ichiban (359 Ridgeway, Flowood, 601-919-8879) / Good Showing: Bonsai Japanese Steak House (1925 Lakeland Drive, 601-981-0606); Nagoya Japanese Restaurant (6351 Interstate 55 N., Suite 131, 601-977-8881; 111 Colony Crossing, Suite 380, Madison, 601-856-5678); Sakura Bana (4800 Interstate 55 N., Suite 11, 601-982-3035)

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

Situated across from City Hall and with doughnuts cooked fresh every day, Mark Scurlock provides denizens of downtown with that extra morning boost and sugar rush. No matter which style is your favorite, Scurlock is sure to please with his selection of doughnut holes, bear claws, fritters and Danishes, not to mention the usual variety of glazed, jelly-filled and chocolate-covered classics. Open early at 7 a.m. Monday through Saturday, let Mark Scurlock jump-start your day with a perfectly puffed pastry or with any one of his traditional breakfast dishes, such as grits, eggs or sausage. —Andrew Dunaway Second: Donut Palace (Multiple Locations, 601-919-8601) / Third: Shipley’s Do-Nuts (103 Highway 80 E., Clinton, 601-925-0020) / Good Showing: Monroe’s (6310 Medgar Evers Blvd., 601-981-3208); Pillow Donuts (1679 Old Fannin Road, Suite D, Flowood, 601992-6040; 707 Beau Pre Drive, Ridgeland, 601-790-9697); Sweet Sensations (5036 Parkway Drive, 769-233-7409)

COURTESY PAN ASIA

One of the most important factors in great food is freshness. That’s a quality that is never in question from the moment you walk into Mr. Chen’s Authentic Chinese Cooking. The restaurant is attached to a Chinese grocery in which those who can only read English may have trouble figuring out what much of the food is on the shelves. The market includes a fish section, where everything from lobster to squid and eels either swim in tanks or sit freshly killed on ice. That freshness rolls over to the restaurant, where seafood and Chinese food lovers will find some the city’s best eats. —Jacob Fuller

Best Asian: Pan-Asia

Best Fried Chicken: Two Sisters Kitchen

Best Ethnic or Specialty Grocer: Rainbow Natural Grocery Cooperative

707 N. Congress St., 601-353-1180

Forget about apple pie. Forget hamburgers. There is no food more uniquely American than southern fried chicken. And nowhere in Jackson—or perhaps in the whole South—does fried chicken better than Two Sisters Kitchen. Stepping into Two Sisters at lunchtime is like stepping out of a snowstorm into a hearth-warmed cottage. Literally. During the daily lunch rush, the line can extend out the door. But once you get through the line and secure a table, it’ll be well worth the wait. While Two Sisters’ chicken is legendary, the buffet also offers a range of southern-style cuisine depending on the day including chicken and dumplings, greens, cornbread dressing, macaroni and cheese, candied yams, spaghetti, cornbread, biscuits, and desserts such as chocolate cake, bread and banana pudding, and apple crisp. —R.L. Nave

2807 Old Canton Road, 601-366-1602, rainbowcoop.org

TRIP BURNS

Opened in 1980, Rainbow Natural Grocery Cooperative is a long-standing Best of Jackson award winner. At the entrance to the grocery near the customerservice desk hang framed certificates of recognition. Assistant store manager Leigh Anne Lawson, who has worked there for six years, says the store has about 50 people on staff to serve its 6,000 members. Despite this, Lawson says that Rainbow has “the best, most knowledgeable staff. If you have a question about something, and we don’t know the answer, we’ll be glad to look it up and help you find it.” Rainbow is dedicated to promoting well-being by providing inexpensive products and functions as a healthy, progressive hub in Fondren. —Genevieve Legacy Second: Mr. Chen’s Oriental Supermarket (5465 Interstate 55 N., 601-978-1865) / Third: Aladdin Grocery (740 Lakeland Drive, 601-366-2102) / Good Showing: High Noon Café (2807 Old Canton Road, 601-366-1602, ext. 3); Fresh Market (1000 Highland Colony Parkway, Ridgeland, 601-856-2866); Patel Brothers (1999 Highway 80, Suite 15, 601-353-6611)

Second: Julep Restaurant and Bar (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 105, 601-362-1411) / Third: Mama Hamil’s Southern Cookin’ (480 Magnolia St., Madison, 601-856-4407) / Good Showing: Fannin Mart (5419 Highway 25, Flowood, 601-992-0411); Primos Café (2323 Lakeland Drive, 601-936-3398; 515 Lake Harbor Drive, Ridgeland, 601-898-3600); Table 100 (100 Ridge Way, Flowood, 601-420-4202

Best Gumbo: Que Será Será

2801 N. State St., 601-981-2520, queserams.com

Que Será Será, Jackson’s Cajun American restaurant, serves authentic ’Nawlinsstyle gumbo, but it’s just one of its many specialties. In addition to satisfying seafood entrées, Que Será, Será has long been recognized for its prize-winning Cajun red beans and rice. Duggan’s Seafood Gumbo, now a five-time Best of Jackson winner, is made from scratch with a dark roux and special seasonings with plenty of Andouille sausage, oysters and shrimp served over a bowl of rice with crackers. I paid an extra $.25 for French bread, and it was worth it. Fondren’s favorite gumbo-to-geaux is available by the quart with advance orders. —Susan Hogan

Best Greek Restaurant: Keifer’s

710 Poplar Blvd., 601-355-6825, keifers.net; 120 N. Congress St., 601353-4976, keifersdowntown.com

I’ve personally talked to people from both Los Angeles and New York City who bring up Keifer’s when the topic turns to Jackson restaurants. I don’t know what it is about Keifer’s that makes folks all the way from the heart of Belhaven to Hollywood and the Big Apple remember its pita mozz, gyros, cottage fries and feta sauce, but whatever it is (OK, maybe it’s that feta sauce), I doubt Keifer’s has plans to change. It’s the perfect place to pull together a big table of friends, order a couple pitchers of beer and while away an afternoon. Now with a larger porch area, but the same inside décor and menu items, the Belhaven Keifer’s is bigger and better than ever, easily capturing the Best Greek category for at least the fifth year in a row. —Kathleen M. Mitchell

Second: Hal & Mal’s (200 S. Commerce St., 601-948-0888) / Third: Char Restaurant (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 142, 601-956-9562) / Good Showing: Broad Street Baking Company (4465 Interstate 55 N., Suite 101, 601-362-2900); Fat Tuesday’s (6923 Old Canton Road, Ridgeland, 601-956-2971); Sal & Phil’s (6600 Old Canton Road, Ridgeland, 601-957-1188)

Second: Kristos (971 Madison Ave., Madison, 601-605-2266) / Third: Wraps (1220 E. Northside Drive, Suite 420, 601-366-2006) / Good Showing: Bill’s Greek Tavern (4760 McWillie Drive, 601-982-9295); Krilakis–Casual Greek Dining (207 W. Jackson St., Ridgeland, 601790-9463); Vasilios Greek Cuisine (828 Highway 51, Madison, 601-853-0028)

Most Innovative Menu: Parlor Market 115 W. Capitol St., 601-360-0090, parlormarket.com

Second: Keifer’s (710 Poplar Blvd., 601-355-6825; 120 N. Congress St., 601-353-4976) / Third: Burgers & Blues (1060 E. County Line Road, Suite 22, Ridgeland, 601-899-0038) / Good Showing: Que Será Será (2801 N. State St., 601-9812520); Five Guys Burgers & Fries (122 Market St., Flowood, 601-919-1995; 1000 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite 2001, Ridgeland, 601-605-1115); Pizza Shack (925 E. Fortification St., 601-352-2001;5045 Parkway Drive, 601-957-1975)

LYNETTE HANSON

Whether it’s the cheeseburgers or the famous gravy fries topped with its legendary, homemade brown gravy, coming in first place (again) for Best Hangover Food in Jackson is the Cherokee Inn. Owner Blake McMillan is forever grateful. “We appreciate all our customers, voters and supporters,” he says. Tucked away on Old Square Road, Cherokee Inn has been in business since the 1940s. McMillan says he is “just trying to make sure we don’t change any of the things our customers love about us.” —Darnell Jackson

Second: Babalu Tacos and Tapas (622 Duling Ave., Suite 106, 601-366-5757) / Third: Table 100 (100 Ridge Way, Flowood, 601-420-4202) / Good Showing: Bruno’s Adobo (127 S. Roach St., Suite 1200, 601-944-9501); Julep Restaurant and Bar (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 105, 601-362-1411); Walker’s Drive-In (3016 N. State St., 601-982-2633)

jacksonfreepress.com

1410 Old Square Road, 601-362-6388

TRIP BURNS

Best Hangover Food: Cherokee Inn

With the revitalization of downtown, a new style of fine dining came to Jackson when the late Craig Noone opened Parlor Market a few years ago. Its impressive seasonal southern cuisine has attracted diners throughout the state with its fresh seafood dishes, tender steaks cooked to perfection and amazing wild game. No wonder Parlor Market, Mississippi’s multi-award-winning restaurant, captured Jackson’s Most Innovative Menu award again this year. It definitely kicks up the term “upscale” a notch. This unique restaurant, located in a century-old building in downtown Jackson on Capitol Street, uses locally grown products and serves seasonal entrées throughout the year. Check out the Parlor Market’s website for a list of food purveyors updated frequently. —Susan Hogan

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Best Italian: Amerigo Italian Restaurant

Best Japanese/Sushi: Nagoya Japanese Restaurant

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

6351 Interstate 55 N., Suite 131, 601-977-8881; 111 Colony Crossing, Suite 380, Madison, 601-856-5678, nagoya-ms.com

Nagoya Japanese Restaurant manager Christina Chen says her staff’s experience and the freshness of the food makes the restaurant such a popular location. “We also try to accommodate people of all tastes. We can make sushi for anyone,” Chen says. “We have several rolls that are cooked that other sushi establishments may not offer.” Nagoya also offers several Asian sauces with its dishes that are exclusive to the restaurant. The menu has weekly specials that differentiate it as well. Along with the sushi, both of Nagoya’s locations feature several hibachi grills with talented chefs to cook and perform in front of guests. —Greg Pigott

TRIP BURNS

Founded in 1987, Amerigo has long been Jackson-area residents’ choice for the best that Italian cuisine has to offer. Whether you’re looking for an evening with friends or a romantic dinner for two, Amerigo fits the bill. With a menu reading like a list of Italy’s greatest hits, it’s a challenge knowing where to begin. From the nationally recognized cheesefritter appetizer to the ever-tempting crawfish pasta and crowd-pleasing chicken marsala, there truly is something for every palate. Stop by on Sundays for brunch with an Italian twist with crab-cake benedict and parmesan polenta, a breakfast panini and, of course, an espresso. —Andrew Dunaway

Second: Sakura Bana (4800 Interstate 55 N., 601-982-3035) / Third: Little Tokyo (876 Avery Blvd., Ridgeland, 601-991-3800) / Good Showing: Bonsai Japanese Steak House (1925 Lakeland Drive, 601-981-0606); Ichiban (359 Ridge Way, Flowood, 601-919-8879); Wasabi Sushi and Bar (100 E. Capitol St., Suite 105, 601-948-8808)

Second: BRAVO! Italian Restaurant & Bar (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 244, 601-9828111) / Third: Cerami’s Italian Restaurant (5417 Lakeland Drive, 601-919-2829) / Good Showing: Biaggi’s Ristorante Italiano (970 Highland Colony Parkway, Ridgeland, 601-3546600); Fratesi’s Italian Foods (910 Lake Harbour Drive, Ridgeland, 601-956-2929); Rossini Cucina Italiana (207 W. Jackson St., Suite A, Ridgeland, 601-856-9696)

Best New Restaurant: Bruno’s Adobo 127 S. Roach St., Suite 1200, 601-944-9501

Best Mexican/Latin: La Cazuela Mexican Grill

1401 E. Fortification St., 601-353-3014, garciarestaurants.net/cazuela.htm

Since 2001, the Garcia family has served some of Jackson’s best Mexican and Latin food at the popular La Cazuela Mexican Grill. For lunch, dinner, and happy hour, customers enjoy feasting on a great selection of authentic south-of-the-border food served with unlimited chips and salsa. Whether eating indoors or on the patio at La Cazuela, families, couples and singles enjoy the cuisine surrounded by Mexican décor. Try the surf-and-turf Mexican style or the vegetarian options. Of course, La Caz has seen many a 21st birthday as well—enjoy two-for-one margarita specials Sunday through Thursday from 5 p.m. until closing. —Susan Hogan

TRIP BURNS

Second: El Potrillo Mexican Restaurant (123 Grand View Blvd., Suite H, Madison, 601605-9320; 100 Laurel Park Drive, Flowood, 601-939-9900; 1390 W. Government St., Suite D, Brandon, 601-591-1314) / Third: Papitos Mexican Grill (111 Colony Crossing, Suite 400, Madison, 601-605-0275) / Good Showing: Babalu Tacos and Tapas (622 Duling Ave., Suite 106, 601-366-5757); Margaritas Mexican Restaurant (1625 E. County Line Road, 601-957-7672; 737 Clinton Parkway, 601-924-0005); Sombra Mexican Kitchen (140 Township Ave., Suite 100, Ridgeland, 601-707-7950)

Second: Anjou Restaurant (361Township Ave., Ridgeland, 601-707-0587) /Third:The Islander (220 E. Northside Drive, Suite 100, 601-366-5441) / Good Showing: Jaco’s Tacos (318 S. State St., 601-961-7001); Signa’s Grille (680 Highway 51 N., Suite E, Ridgeland, 601-853-0266); Sombra Mexican Kitchen (140 Township Ave., Suite 100, Ridgeland, 601-707-7950)

Best Outdoor Dining: Babalu Tacos and Tapas

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Second: Que Será Será (2801 N. State St., 601-981-2520) / Third: Keifer’s (710 Poplar Blvd., 601-355-6825; 120 N. Congress St., 601-353-4976) / Good Showing: Burgers & Blues (1060 E. County Line Road, Suite 22, Ridgeland); Kristos–Casual Greek Dining (971 Madison Ave., Madison, 601-605-2266); Walker’s Drive-In (3016 N. State St., 601-982-2633)

Best Pizza: Pizza Shack

925 E. Fortification, 601-352-2001; 5045 Parkway Drive, 601-957-1975, thepizzashackjackson.com

TATE K NATIONS

January 23 - 29, 2013

622 Duling Ave., Suite 106, 601-366-5757, babalums.com

It’s not easy to break new culinary ground with forays into cuisines not as well known in Jackson. Thus, it was a leap of faith when co-owners Bill Latham and Al Roberts brought a tapas-esque eatery to the city with Babalu in late 2010. In the short time since, it has become one of Jackson’s favorite restaurants with dishes such as beef empanadas, tortas and carnitas. Pair flavorful plates with excellent outdoor seating in the heart of Fondren, and you have a winning combination. Even though dining indoors brings the retro sight of “I Love Lucy” episodes playing on the wall, there’s nothing quite like enjoying a Babarita and freshly made guacamole in the fresh air. It’s no wonder that the line for Babalu is often out the door. —Andrew Dunaway

Bruno’s Adobo, situated on the first floor of the downtown Standard Life building, is a fresh respite from greasy soul food and stale fast-food chains. Bright and airy with fresh flowers on every table, the restaurant provides downtown residents and business-people innovative lunch specials with high-quality ingredients such as jerk pork, shrimp tacos, beef curry and bahn mi sandwiches made with crusty bread from a Vietnamese bakery on the Gulf Coast. Adding the soup of the day to your ticket for a few cents extra is a must, though the daily staple of black-bean soup is delicious and nearly as filling as the meals. For those who like a more languorous lunch, Adobo offers lunch-goers homemade desserts as well as bottled domestic beers. —Molly Lehmuller

Pizza Shack, which has been in business since 2005, is popular because of its specialty pizzas with fresh ingredients. It’s not your run-of-the-mill pizza place. Pizza Shack has an eclectic selection of pizzas such as the chicken curry delight, double cheeseburger, the Greek and the Cajun Joe. While pizzas are its signature item, the menu includes much more, including a variety of freshly tossed salads, deli sandwiches and wings. You can even enjoy a slice of New York Style cheesecake or Tiramisu for dessert. I definitely recommend the Pizza Shack for your next date night or family night out. —Adriane Louie Second: Sal & Mookie’s New York Pizza and Ice Cream Joint (565 Taylor St., 601-3681919) / Third: Soulshine Pizza Factory (5352 Highway 25, Suite 1100, Flowood, 601-9192000; 1111 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite I, Ridgeland, 601-856-8646) / Good Showing: Hungry Howie’s Pizza (7157 Old Canton Road, Ridgeland, 601-898-5008; 1060 Spillway Circle, Brandon, 601-706-0418), Mazzio’s Italian Eatery (Multiple Locations, mazzios.com); Mellow Mushroom (275 Dogwood Blvd., Flowood, 601-992-7499)

Best Place to Get Coffee: Cups: An Espresso Café

Best Place to Eat When Someone Else Pays: Walker’s Drive-In

Multiple Locations, cupsespressocafe.com

3016 N. State St., 601-982-2633 walkersdrivein.com

TATE K NATIONS

A chain is only as strong as its weakest link, and nowhere is that more true than with food. Poor ingredients mean poor results; unfortunately, quality ingredients and skills come with a hefty price tag. But for that occasion when someone else is picking up the tab, steer your party toward Walker’s Drive-In. At this Fondren icon, chef Derek Emerson has been working his magic in the kitchen for years, but his quality dishes like the “three little pigs”—a trio of pork chops, crispy pork skins and pork belly confit —come at a price. While a look at the menu may come with a small dose of sticker shock, the first bite will have you saving your pennies for your next meal at Walker’s. —Andrew Dunaway Second: Char Restaurant (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 142, 601-956-9562) / Third: Parlor Market (115 W. Capitol St., 601-360-0090) / Good Showing: Nick’s Restaurant (3000 Old Canton Road, Suite 105, 601-981-8017); Shapley’s Restaurant (868 Centre St., Ridgeland, 601-957-3753); Table 100 (100 Ridge Way, Flowood, 601-420-4202)

Second: Sneaky Beans (2914 N. State St., 601-487-6349) / Third: Seattle Drip (Multiple Locations, seattledrip.com) / Good Showing: Beagle Bagel Café (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 145, 769-251-1892); 100 Mannsdale Park Drive, Suite II, Madison, 601-856-4377; 898 Avery Blvd., 601-956-1773, Ridgeland); Broad Street Baking Company (4465 Interstate 55 N., Suite 101, 601-362-2900), Koinonia Coffee House (136 S. Adams St., 601-960-3008)

Best Restaurant: Table 100

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

6600 Old Canton Road, Ridgeland, 601-957-1188

There is no wonder Jackson says Sal & Phil’s has the best seafood. It has been serving fresh Gulf shrimp, Mississippi farm raised catfish, royal red shrimp, Dungeness crabs and fresh Gambino bread from New Orleans for more than 25 years. The Cajun-boiled crawfish is now in season—just snap off the head, suck the juice from the crawfish head, peel the tail and feast. Craving a variety of seafood? Start with Sal & Phil’s popular gumbo, crawfish etouffee or oysters on the half shell, followed with a po-boy or a seafood platter. Have it your way in a friendly atmosphere where everything tastes good and fresh and is affordably priced. —Susan Hogan

Second: Walker’s Drive-In (3016 N. State St., 601-982-2633) / Third: BRAVO! Italian Restaurant and Bar (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 244, 601-982-8111) / Good Showing: Babalu Tacos and Tapas (622 Duling Ave., Suite 106, 601-366-5757); Julep Restaurant and Bar (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 105, 601-362-1411); Parlor Market (115 W. Capitol St., 601-360-0090)

Second: The Mayflower (123 W. Capitol St., 601-355-4122) / Third: AJ’s Seafood Grille (223 Ridge Way, Flowood, 601-919-1900) / Good Showing: Bonefish Grill (201 Colony Way, Madison, 601-607-3334); Crab’s Seafood Shack (6954 Old Canton Road, Ridgeland, 601956-5040); Walker’s Drive-In (3016 N. State St., 601-982-2633)

Best Steak: Shapley’s Restaurant

Best Take-Out: OEC Japanese Express

Second: Tico’s Steakhouse (1536 E. County Line Road, Ridgeland, 601-956-1030) / Third: Char Restaurant (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 142, 601-956-9562) / Good Showing: Ely’s Restaurant & Bar (115 W. Jackson St., Ridgeland, 601-605-6359); Kathryn’s Steakhouse (6800 Old Canton Road, Suite 108, Ridgeland, 601-956-2803); Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse (1000 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite 1000, Ridgeland, 601-853-2734); Table 100 (100 Ridge Way, Flowood, 601-420-4202)

Multiple Locations, oecflowood.com

If you’ve read the past four issues of the Best of Jackson, you shouldn’t be shocked to find that this year’s Best Take-Out is OEC Japanese Express. The Japanese restaurant has secured its spot on our best list, and by the looks of it, it doesn’t plan on giving it up anytime soon. The combination of fried rice topped with meat and veggies of your choice bursting out of the side of Styrofoam to-go boxes is enough to make any Jackson-area resident’s mouth water. With locations in pretty much every part of the Jackson metro area, OEC is responding to the ever-increasing demand for inexpensive food that just tastes good. It would be hard-pressed to find any business (restaurants included) or home in Jackson that doesn’t have a pink sauce-stained OEC menu in its “everything drawer.” —Ross Cabell Second: Newk’s Express Café (Multiple Locations, newks.com) / Second: BRAVO! Italian Restaurant and Bar (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 244, 601-982-8111) / Good Showing: Best Wok Chinese Restaurant (225 Meadowbrook Road, 601-368-9555); Mr. Chen’s Authentic Chinese Cooking (5465 Interstate 55 N., 601-978-1865); Tokyo Express (900 E. County Line Road, Suite 150A, Ridgeland, 601-899-8838; 5050 Interstate 55 N., Suite D, 601-957-1558)

jacksonfreepress.com

One of the best ways to reward yourself in Jackson is a dinner at Shapley’s Restaurant. Shapley’s offers superbly cooked beefsteaks for every size appetite—from a petite 6-ounce filet maison to a plate-shattering 40-ounce porterhouse. If you’re truly looking to indulge and reward yourself, marinated crab claws, escargot and seared foie gras populate the appetizer section while cream spinach au gratin and gruyere-and-chive scalloped potatoes frame your steak. It’s little wonder that Shapley’s has been rewarding Jacksonians since 1985. —Andrew Dunaway

KATHLEEN MITCHELL

868 Centre St., Ridgeland, 601-957-3753 shapleysrestaurant.com

COURTESY SHAPLEYS

Best Seafood: Sal & Phil’s

TRIP BURNS

Table 100 features lunch and dinner menus with excellent entrees. Enjoy fine dining in a causal Euro-American bistro in a turn-of-the century New Orleans culinary atmosphere where diners can enjoy prime rib roast, Table 100 signature eggs benedict, and much more during the Sunday Jazz Brunch beginning at 10:30 a.m., or simply unwind with cocktails at the piano bar. You’ll get an upscale dining experience with Table 100’s menu, which includes seafood, lamb, chicken and steak. For vegans, the seasoned vegetable plate with your choice of four vegetables hits the spot. —Susan Hogan

Cups offers a unique menu and an eclectic atmosphere that keeps customers coming in for more. “The Capitol” is an original Cups menu item and consists of caramel, steamed milk and brewed coffee topped with whipped cream and caramel. My favorite is “The Turtle,” which includes caramel and Ghirardelli dark chocolate combined with brewed coffee and steamed milk and topped with whipped cream, caramel and chocolate drizzle. Cups not only serves coffee and espressos; it also offers a variety of tea, hot chocolate and fruit smoothies. —Adriane Louie

43

Will and Linda Friday, January 25, 2013 9:00pm | Cover $5 Feb. 8 • Raymond Hooting Longoria and Forest Frog Parker Feb. 9 • Luckenbach

Thank you for voting. We are finalists in:

Best Dive Bar Best Jukebox Best Place to Drink Cheap Best Place to Shoot Pool

6537 Old Canton Road, Ridgeland, 601-206-7776, taguadalupe.com

At Ridgeland’s Taqueria La Guadalupe, one can always get a wide variety of tacos. Start with a corn or flour tortilla filled with steak, beef brisket, pork loin, chicken, fish, spicy sausage or a combination, and top it with your choice of lettuce, onion, tomatoes, cilantro, cheese and avocado slices with lime and awesome salsa on the side. Satisfy your quest for fresh, inexpensive Mexican tamales, tortas, fajitas and burritos with a Columbian tweak surrounded by Columbian décor. Even vegetarians can find goodies on the menu. This quaint eatery opens at 10 a.m. daily, and nothing on the menu is more than $10. —Susan Hogan Second: Babalu Tacos and Tapas (622 Duling Ave., Suite 106, 601366-5757) / Third: Jaco’s Tacos (318 S. State St., 601-961-7001) / Good Showing: Carniceria Valdez (6530 Old Canton Road, Ridgeland, 601-899-6992); La Cazuela (1401 E. Fortification St., 601-353-3014); La Morena (6610 Old Canton Road, Ridgeland, 601-899-8821)

Best Bar Where Everyone knows your name 601-362-6388

1410 Old Square Road • Jackson

Thank You

for making us a finalist for:

• Best Local Fried Chicken

Best Veggie Burger: Cool Al’s

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

Pleasant

Best Taqueria: Taqueria La Guadalupe

If you’re starting the year off right eating healthy, don’t be a stranger to Cool Al’s. It has the best well-known veggie options in town with outstanding choices for a veggie burger including the Jamaican Veggie burger, pineapple veggie delight and the West African veggie burger all topped with fresh vegetables and fruit. These burgers come with black-eyed peas, mushrooms, bell peppers, onions and pineapples. You can also try a delicious traditional veggie burger. Everything is seasoned with its own blend of spices, creating unique food with tons of flavor. —Elyane Alexander Second: High Noon Café (2807 Old Canton Road, 601366-1513) / Third: Majestic Burger (4943 Old Canton Road, 601899-8822; 1067 Highland Colony, Parkway, Suite B, Ridgeland, 601707-0093) / Good Showing: Bruno’s Adobo (127 Roach St., Suite 1200, 601-944-9501); Burgers & Blues (1060 E. County Line Road, Suite 22, Ridgeland, 601-899-0038); Stamps Superburger (1801 Dalton St. 601-352-4555)

Best Wings: Wingstop Multiple Locations, wingstop.com

Best Wine List/Selection: BRAVO! Italian Restaurant and Bar 4500 Interstate 55, Suite 244, 601-982-8111, bravobuzz.com

Wine enhances any meal, so a good selection that pairs well with food and conversation is important. Perennially recognized in Wine Spectator Awards, BRAVO!’s wine list boasts both impressive bottles for splurging and value wines by the glass. Sommelier Mitchell Earry keeps the list updated and fresh as the seasons and menu change and ensures that bartenders and waitstaff can make solid recommendations. He wants customers to enjoy learning about wine, so he blogs about wine on the restaurant’s website with tips on choosing bottles. Additionally, as part of BRAVO’s wine program, he orchestrates regular wine tastings on Sunday afternoons, each with a different theme. —Julie Skipper Second: Table 100 (100 Ridge Way, Flowood, 601-420-4202) / Third: Kats Wine and Spirits (921 E. Fortification St., 601-983-5287) / Good Showing: Char Restaurant (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 142, 601956-9562); Parlor Market (115 W. Capitol St., 601-360-0090); Shapley’s Restaurant (868 Centre St., Ridgeland, 601-957-3753)

There are some things in life that are meant to be together—fish and chips, peanut butter and jelly—but there few combinations more sublime than well-fried chicken wings and flavorful sauces. Fortunately, Jackson is brimming with options, but one has risen above the rest: Wingstop. With multiple locations the Jackson area and across the Magnolia State, one is never far from perfectly fried, traditional chicken wings, and one of Wingstop’s 10 satisfying sauces (atomic, Cajun, original hot, mild, hickory-smoked BBQ, garlic parmesan, Hawaiian, teriyaki, lemon pepper and the new Louisiana rub). Of course, Wingstop offers more than expertly fried chicken wings. With a full menu, a bevy of draft beers and enough televisions to cover every game, you’ll be hard-pressed to leave. —Andrew Dunaway Second: Buffalo Wild Wings (808 Lake Harbour Drive, Ridgeland, 601-856-0789) / Third: Wing Station (5038 Parkway Drive, 888769-9464) / Good Showing: American Deli (3645 Highway 80 W., 601-355-2448); Pizza Shack (925 E. Fortification St., 601352-2001; 5045 Parkway Drive, 601-957-1975); Sal & Mookie’s New York and Ice Cream Joint (565 Taylor St., 601-368-1919)

• Best Lunch Buffet • Best Soul Food

910 Lake Harbour Dr. Ridgeland, MS 601-956-2929 Mon - Sat • 5 - until • Sun 11-2

• Best of Jackson Winner

January 23 - 29, 2013

(2003-2012)

44

In Town & in the USA -Best of Jackson 2003-2011-

-Food & Wine Magazine-

- also acceppting JSU Supercards707 N Congress St., Jackson | 601-353-1180 Mon thru Fri: 11am-2pm • Sun: 11am - 3pm

Come Try Our Dinner Specials 2481 Lakeland Dr Flowood, MS 39232

601-932-4070 tel 601-933-1077 fax

Thank You For Voting Us One Of The Best Italian Restaurants Best of Jackson 2013

Best Bar; Best Bar Where Everyone Knows Your Name; Best Open-Mic Night: Fenian’s Pub

Best Dive Bar; Best Place to Drink Cheap: Martin’s Lounge 214 S. State St., 601-354-9712, martinslounge.net

TRIP BURNS

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

Best Bar Second: The Bulldog (6111 Ridgewood Road, 601-978-3502) / Third: Ole Tavern on George Street (416 George St., 601-960-2700) / Good Showing: Hal & Mal’s (200 S. Commerce St., 601-948-0888); Table 100 (100 Ridge Way, Flowood, 601-420-4202); Underground 119 (119 S. President St., 601-352-2322)

Best Bar Where Everyone Knows Your Name Second: Hal & Mal’s (200 S. Commerce St., 601-948-0888) / Third: Ole Tavern on George Street (416 George St., 601-960-2700) / Good Showing: Cherokee Inn (1410 Old Square Road, 601-362-6388); Julep Restaurant and Bar (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 105, 601-362-1411); Martin’s Lounge (214 S. State St., 601-354-9712)

Best Open-Mic Night Second: Time Out Sports Café (6270 Old Canton Road, 601-978-1839) / Third: Suite 106 (106 Wilmington St., 601-940-7059) / Good Showing: Last Call Sports Grill (1428 Old Square Road, 601-713-2700); Ole Tavern on George Street (416 George St., 601-960-2700); Soul Wired Café (111 Millsaps Ave., 601-863-6378)

TRIP BURNS

It’s no surprise to find Fenian’s Pub crowned Jackson’s Best Bar for a third-straight year and at the top of all three categories for the second year in a row. All the people who voted for it in 2011 are still there at least two nights a week. At the corner of Fortification and Jefferson streets, Fenian’s is the neighborhood watering hole for more than just those who live in Belhaven. From Jonathan the bouncer’s friendly nod when he knows he’s checked your ID before to Jamie grabbing your favorite beer before you can even ask, Fenian’s really is a place where everyone knows your name. If you’ve got music, comedy or poetry you want to share, come ready to step up to the mic on Tuesdays for your free, uncensored 15 minutes on stage. —Jacob Fuller

When people in Jackson talk about dive bars, one of the main names that comes up is Martin’s Lounge. “We’re a dive bar with more to offer, now,” current owner Joseph Stodghill says. Since taking over the bar after his father, Calvin Stodghill, passed away in August 2012, Joseph has overseen several renovations to Martin’s. The back room, used for entertainment, has been completely restored with new walls, flooring, bar tables and more. Martin’s Lounge also has a new ventilation system and a new kitchen open Tuesday through Friday. With the help of booking agent and late-night general manager Chris Rybolt, the bar is now home to live music from mainly local acts each Tuesday evening. Martin’s stands out when it comes to drink specials. On Mondays, enjoy two-for-one draft beers all day. Each Tuesday, to go along with the Late Night Karaoke with Matt Collette, the bar serves $1 Miller High Lifes and Pabst Blue Ribbons and $2 margaritas 10 p.m.-midnight. Wednesday is Ladies’ Night—ladies get half-priced drinks from 5 p.m. until closing. —Briana Robinson Best Dive Bar Second: Sam’s Lounge (5035 Interstate 55 N., 601-983-2526) / Third: Cherokee Inn (1410 Old Square Road, 601-362-6388) / Good Showing: F. Jones Corner (303 N. Farish St., 601983-1148); Fenian’s Pub (901 E. Fortification St., 601-9480055); Shucker’s on the Rez (116 Conestoga Road, Ridgeland, 601-853-0105)

Best Place to Drink Cheap Second: Fenian’s Pub (901 E. Fortification St., 601-948-0055) / Third: Sam’s Lounge (5035 Interstate 55 N., 601983-2526) / Good Showing: Cherokee Inn (1410 Old Square Road, 601-362-6388); Club Magoo’s (824 S. State St., 601-487-8710); Time Out Sports Café (6270 Old Canton Road, 601-978-1839)

Best Jukebox: Sam’s Lounge 5035 Interstate 55 N., 601-983-2526

It’s not surprising that Sam’s Lounge won Best Jukebox for its first Best of Award first-place award. Despite its unassuming exterior (the lounge is located inside the Best Value Inn & Suites off Interstate 55’s Frontage Road), Sam’s has carved out a niche for itself in the Jackson nightlife scene, anchored by its extensive jukebox playlist. There’s just something about having the power to put on your favorite song as soon as you want it. If you are looking for a place to unwind after work where everybody knows your name, stop by the lounge for the colorful décor and friendly staff. During the week, shoot some pool and listen to music on the Internet-wired jukebox. On weekends, Sam’s Lounge hosts live music of all genres. —Pamela Hosey Second: CS’s (1359-1/2 N. West St., 601-969-9482) / Third: Crechale’s (3107 Highway 80 W., 601-355-1840) / Good Showing: Cherokee Inn (1410 Old Square Road, 601-362-6388); JC’s Construction (425 N. Mart Plaza, 601-362-3108); Peaches (327 N. Farish St., 601-354-9267)

Best Happy Hour; Best Margarita: Babalu Tacos and Tapas 622 Duling Ave., Suite 106, 601-366-5757, babalums.com

of warm weather and beaches. Or maybe it’s just the tequila. Whatever the reason, margaritas remain a favorite of the cocktail crowd. At Babalu, you can settle in at the bar to order one that features fresh-squeezed juices and, if you’d like, choose from among its 19 premium tequilas. If you want to step outside the traditional, go for the signature Babarita (made with agave nectar and POM juice) or a tamarind margarita (featuring fresh citrus and tamarind extract). Whichever you settle on—or if you try all of them—you’re sure to quench your thirst for a little taste of something from south of the border. —Julie Skipper Best Happy Hour Second: Time Out Sports Café (6270 Old Canton Road, 601978-1839) / Third: Underground 119 (119 S. President St., 601-

352-2322) / Good Showing: Burgers & Blues (1060 E. County Line Road, Suite 22, Ridgeland, 601-899-0038); Fenian’s Pub (901 E. Fortification St., 601.948.0055); La Cazuela (1401 E. Fortification St., 601-353-3014); Pan-Asia (720 Harbour Pointe Crossing, Ridgeland, 601-956-2958)

Best Margarita Second: Margaritas Mexican Restaurant (1625 E. County Line Road, 601-927-7672; 727 Clinton Parkway, Clinton, 601924-0005) / Third: Sombra Mexican Kitchen (140 Township Ave., Suite 100, Ridgeland, 601-707-7950) / Good Showing: El Potrillo Mexican Restaurant (123 Grand View Blvd., Madison, 601-605-9320; 100 Laurel Park Drive, Flowood, 601-939-9900; 1390 Highway 80 E., Brandon, 601-591-1314); La Cazuela Mexican Grill (1401 E. Fortification St., 601-3533014); Papitos Mexican Grill (6376 Ridgewood Court Drive, 601-665-4632)

jacksonfreepress.com

After a long day, a good drink and something to eat while enjoying good company is a beautiful thing. At a good price, it’s gorgeous. Add in a patio in nice weather, and it may stretch into more than just an hour. Babalu Tacos and Tapas in Fondren has all of these things, and in the spirit of sharing— which goes along with tapas—calls its daily food and drink specials from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. “Social Hour.” During that time, you can sip on a glass of wine for just $5 or signature sangria for $4 and enjoy some popular tacos—the carnitas (pulled pork) and fish of the day are among the most popular—for just $2. As for what to drink during social hour, look to the classic margarita. Maybe it’s the combination of salty and sweet (and sour). Maybe it’s that they remind us

45

Best LGBT Hangout: Bottoms Up

Best Live Music Venue: Hal & Mal’s

3911 Northview Drive, 601-981-2188

My friends and I always recall our nights at Bottoms Up with smirks and giggles. On Saturday nights, the dance floor is filled with all types of people, from provocative dancers to buttoned-up business types to local college students just looking for a night out. Every person I’ve brought to Bottoms Up, gay or straight, has had a good time and can’t wait to go back. The bar frequently has glow-paint and black lights, making you feel like you’re living out a Ke$ha music video. Saturday nights also feature drag shows around midnight that are always packed, and offer a great chance for us to cheer until we’re hoarse. I’ll never forget the night when one drag queen did a triple pirouette followed by a front handspring. Bottoms Up is open until 4 a.m., making it the perfect place to end a night out in Jackson. —Mo Wilson Second: JC’s Construction (425 N. Mart Plaza, 601-362-3108) / Third: Dick and Jane’s (206 W. Capitol St., 601-952-1000) / Good Showing: Club Metro Reloaded (4670 Highway 80 W., 601-353-0059); Fenian’s Pub (901 E. Fortification St., 601-948-0055); Julep Restaurant and Bar (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 105, 601-362-1411)

200 S. Commerce St., 601-948-0888, halandmals.com From the Red Room to the Big Room to its restaurant floor, Hal & Mal’s has provided a much-needed and appreciated atmosphere of growth for Jackson musicians and music fans alike for decades. Where some live venues can suffer from constant control of the environment, Hal & Mal’s isn’t about hand holding or restraint. It lets bands decide what best suits their individual needs and styles. Don’t be surprised to walk into two shows in the same week and feel surprisingly different. However, that doesn’t mean you’ll ever be out of place in Hal & Mal’s. The combination bar and restaurant and its always-approachable staff produce a warm, inviting venue that Jackson’s finest acts love to frequent and where music lovers naturally congregate. There are plenty of Mississippi bars doubling as music venues with varying degrees of success, but Hal & Mal’s commitment to the Jackson music scene place is at the forefront. —Micah Smith Second: Underground 119 (119 S. President St., 601- 352-2322) / Third: Duling Hall (622 Duling Ave., 601-362-8440) / Good Showing: Burgers & Blues (1060 E. County Line Road, Suite 22, Ridgeland, 601-899-0038); Club Magoo’s (824 S. State St., 601-487-8710); The Penguin (1100 John R. Lynch St., Suite 6A, 769-251-5222)

Best Local Country Artist: Skylar Laine

Best Local Blues Artist: Jarekus Singleton

Second: Jesse Robinson / Third: King Edward / Good Showing: Bobby Rush; Jackie Bell; Scott Albert Johnson

Second: The Colonels / Third: Jason Turner / Good Showing: Crossin’ Dixon; Jason Miller; South of 20

COURTESY SKYLAR LANE

I like that a down-home girl from Mississippi that enjoys mud riding, deer hunting and putting ketchup on her pizza—and is afraid of spiders—made it to the top five on season 11 of America Idol. Born Skylar Laine Harden, she auditioned in Houston with the Pistol Annies song, “Hell on Heels,” which impressed the judges and got her a ticket to Hollywood. Laine chose “Idol” because the timing was right. “I always wanted to try out, but there was always something in the way,” she says. “I was about to start nursing school, and I said, ‘Why not?’” Among so many memorable moments in 2012, the tour was the highlight for her. Laine spent the summer on the American Idol Live Tour traveling around the U.S. and the Philippines. Recently, Laine parted ways with her management company but is working on writing songs and artist development. She has a positive outlook for her future and calls 2013 “a year of choices for me.”

DARNELL JACKSON

Jarekus Singleton, 28, has been named the new face of Mississippi blues. The Jarekus Singleton Band is a family affair, consisting of Jarekus’ cousins and brother. They perform in clubs, at festivals, and in venues across the state and the southeast. Singleton has performed with well-known artists such as King Edward, Omar Cunningham and Grady Champion. In 2011, the band was named Guitar Center’s King of the Blues in Mississippi. Called “A star on the Rise” in the United Kingdom’s Blues & Rhythm magazine, Jarekus released his first album, “Heartfelt,” and is currently working on his second. The Jackson Mississippi Music Awards chose him as the 2012 Blues Artist of the Year. Jarekus Singleton also has an endorsement from Clevenger Guitars of Hot Springs, Ark., where owner Bert Clevenger built two guitars especially for Jarekus. —Shameka Hayes-Hamilton

—ShaWanda and Michael Jacome

Best Local Hip-Hop Artist: 5th Child

Diesel 255 is a five-piece band made up of an eclectic mix of artists bringing their style of melt-your-face raucous rock to the masses. Destin Purvis, Brandon Latham, Kenny Davis, Richard Lee Davis and Seth Thomas have all been powerhouses in the local music scene doing solo projects, but come together to create Jackson’s No. 1 local cover band. And unlike a lot of band members who would let their success and experience blow up their egos, these guys remain humble and true to the music they make with each other. The next time you are out and about looking for a band that will keep you on your feet, Diesel 255 will not disappoint. —Natalie Long

In her song, “Superstar,” Lauryn Hill sings, “Music is supposed to inspire/How come we ain’t getting no higher.” Stephen Brown, aka 5th Child, wants to make one thing clear: He is not a hater of hip-hop. “I don’t make much club music because I don’t spend much time in the club,” 5th Child says. “I would like my music to eventually make it to local and national radio, but that’s far from my priority right now because I don’t see a lot of that positively impacting lives the way I’d like to do with my music.” The 26-yearold Jackson resident recently released his sixth album, “Love Letters and Suicide Notes,” and is no stranger to the Jackson music scene. He has collaborated with the likes of PyInfamous, Skipp Coon and Kamikaze for quite some time. A lover of music of almost all kinds, 5th lists artists such as Jay-Z, Nina Simone and Curtis Mayfield as influences. —Shameka Hayes-Hamilton

Second: The Colonels / Third: Jason Turner / Good Showing: Crossin’ Dixon; Jason Miller; South of 20

Second: Kamikaze / Third: Hollywood Luck / Good Showing: David Banner; Jay Lotto; Skipp Coon

January 23 - 29, 2013

COURTESY DIESEL 255

diesel255.com

46

5thchildmusic.bandcamp.com

COURTESY 5TH CHILD

Best Local Cover Band: Diesel 255

Best Local Jazz Artist: Pam Confer

Best Local R&B Artist: Kerry Thomas

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

kerrythomasmusic.com

With a sound that is a mix of pop, R&B and neo-soul, Kerry Thomas—known to his fans as KT—has wowed Jackson with his performances at Suite 106. The singer, songwriter and self-taught acoustic guitarist credits artists such as John Mayer, Stevie Wonder, Luther Vandross, Eric Roberson and John Legend as his musical influences. In 2011, KT appeared in concert during the Essence Music Festival at the House of Blues in New Orleans with rapper PyInfamous. Although his live shows consist of cover performances, KT is best known for his original works. His EP, “Eye of the Storm,” is available now on iTunes and Amazon. —Shameka Hayes-Hamilton

FILE PHOTO

CAMILLE MOENKHAUS

Voted Best Jazz Artist for the second year in a row, Pam Confer is a jazz singer by night and a motivational speaker and HR consultant by day. This multi-talented woman believes her two careers go hand-in-hand because the outcome of both is to make a difference in people’s lives. Confer grew up in a large family of 12—all of them singers. “Everybody sang—from the old folks down to the kids,” she says. Inspired by jazz singers Etta James and Sarah Vaughan, Confer eventually shifted from singing gospel music to what she calls “sultry and sassy jazz.” She appreciates Jackson’s interest in musical diversity. “There’s a good audience for different kinds of music, an openness to change and different experiences,” she says. —Genevieve Legacy

Second: Akami Graham / Third: K.D. Brosia / Good Showing: A1 (Alry Williams); Lou Writer; Pam Confer; Recognition

jasonturnerband.com

Best Local Rock Artist Second: Storage 24 / Third: The Colonels / Good Showing: Chad Wesley; Cody Cox; Kid Vicious

The tie between Jackson’s two best original bands says plenty about our city’s rich heritage and bright musical future. Indie-rockers Furrows meld old-fashioned Americana rock with tasteful distortion and bouncy but haunting piano, while the self-professed “instant party” that is the Southern Komfort Brass Band dips its finely tuned fingers into just about every available genre. Yes, “original” is just about the best way to position these two groups under one adjective, though it is nowhere near doing them justice. Southern Komfort’s music blends the best of New Orleans’ signature jazz sound with revival funk that makes it utterly impossible not to dance, painting each performance as a new experience rather than more of the same. Meanwhile, Furrows takes the proverbial baton from Jackson’s best indie bands, adds a uniquely soulful spark, and runs with it at hyper-Olympic speeds. But the area that these two bands earn their titles as Jackson’s best original bands is in sheer, unfiltered, unfettered fun. Future audience of these two phenomenal groups of entertainers, consider yourselves warned: You will have a good time. —Micah Smith

TRIP BURNS

COURTESY JASON TURNER

Jason Turner made a huge jump from Good Showing in Best Local Rock Artist in 2012 to this year’s top winner. While some fans and music websites and publications refer to him as a country artist, it’s all rock ‘n’ roll to him. Influenced by the blues music he was surrounded by—his mother worked at Malaco Records—he started playing the guitar at age 12. These days, he leans more toward singer/songwriter music such as John Mayer. His live sets often feature him as a one-man band with an acoustic guitar, harmonica and effect pedals. Check his website for an updated tour schedule, or catch him hosting open-mic nights at the Ole Tavern on George Street. —Briana Robinson

COURTESY FURROWS

Best Original Band (tie): Furrows; Southern Komfort Brass Band

Best Local Rock Artist: Jason Turner

Second: Jason Turner / Third: Storage 24 / Good Showing: Liver Mousse; The Colonels

Best New Bar: Capitol Grill

The mood lighting, black tablecloths and elegant patterned carpet don’t exactly scream “bar.” However, the crowds that gather on game days suggest otherwise. On any given day, devotees of Mississippi sports teams are parked in front of the Capitol Grill’s flat-screen TVs mounted above an enormous bar that carries a respectable variety of craft beers as well as traditional brewed favorites. The space is ample to accommodate folks who are there to dine and those who just want to imbibe while taking in a game. Among the other spirits, Capitol Grill features martinis, wine and several signature cocktails such as the Capitol Margarita—with sour mix that’s made in-house— and the Capitol Cooler that contains watermelon and peach Schnapps, Sprite, orange juice and Grey Goose. —R.L. Nave Second: University Place Sports Bar and Grill (1100 John R. Lynch St., Suite 10, 601487-8059) / Third: The Islander (1220 E. Northside Drive, Suite 100, 601-366-5441) / Good Showing: Da Shak Bar & Grille (4586 Clinton Blvd., 601-487-8453); The Penguin (1100 John R. Lynch St., Suite 6A, 769-251-5222); Soul Wired Café (111 Millsaps Ave., 601863-6378)

Best Place for Cocktails: Julep Restaurant and Bar 4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 105, 601-362-1411, juleprestaurant.com

Julep owners Mary and Patrick Kelly like to have fun. Maybe that’s why they were able to create a restaurant that is a consistent go-to for folks wanting to grab some cocktails and conversation—it feels like a party because they know how to throw one. You can mingle at the bar, of course, but there are also large booths perfect for groups (and people-watching). And then there’s the real reason you’re there: the drinks. The wine list includes many bottles scoring 90 points or higher in wine ratings, and the bartenders shake a mean martini. When you stay long enough to get hungry, you’ll be glad that their famous honey-rosemary chicken is available on the late-night menu until 1 a.m. on weekends. —Julie Skipper Second: Table 100 (100 Ridge Way, Flowood, 601-420-4202) / Third: Parlor Market (115 W. Capitol St., 601-360-0900) / Good Showing: Babalu Tacos and Tapas (622 Duling Ave., Suite 106, 601-366-5757); BRAVO! Italian Restaurant and Bar (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 244, 601-982-8111); Underground 119 (119 S. President St., 601-326-2322)

jacksonfreepress.com

5050 Interstate 55 N., Suite F, 601-899-8944

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PUTNAM’S

Best Place to Dance: Club Magoo’s 824 S. State St., 601-487-8710, clubmagoos.com

When it comes to a place to break it down, Club Magoo’s appeals to a wide range of people. While the free karaoke in the front is always a good time, if you really want to get down, the cover fee ($20 for 18- to 21-year-olds, and $5 for those 21 and up) is worth it to enter the club area. It features a large dance floor and stage for live performances. DJs spin top hiphop, pop and rock tracks, along with mash-ups. Each weekend, the club has a live band, usually playing a mixture of original and cover songs. —Briana Robinson

TRIP BURNS

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Second: Bottoms Up (3911 Northview Drive, 601-981-2188) / Third: Underground 119 (119 S. President St., 601-352-2322) / Good Showing: Martin’s Lounge (214 S. State St., 601354-9712); Ole Tavern on George Street (416 George St., 601-960-2700); Salsa Mississippi (605 Duling Ave., 601-213-6355)

AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE

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Best Place to Shoot Pool: The Green Room 444 Bounds St., 601-713-3444

“Pool excellence is not about excellent pool,” Paul Newman said in “The Color of Money.” The same can be said about The Green Room. Quality tables (which they have) do not make a quality pool hall. Neither does the variety of beer, mixed drinks and food (which is plentiful). Even the amount of regular talented pool hall players does not ensure excellence. But the atmosphere which gives an almost brotherly rivalry that is palpable in the air, combined with these previous factors, continues to prove that the only place to play pool in Jackson is The Green Room. —Michael Jacome Second: Reed Pierce’s (6791 Siwell Road, Byram, 601-376-0777) / Third: Sam’s Lounge (5035 Interstate 55 N., 601-983-2526) / Good Showing: Cherokee Drive Inn (1410 Old Square Road, 601-362-6388); Last Call Sports Grill (1428 Old Square Road, 601-713-2700); Shucker’s on the Rez (116 Conestoga Road, Ridgeland, 601-853-0105)

Best Place to Watch the Game: The Bulldog 6111 Ridgewood Road, 601-978-3502, bulldog-jackson.draftfreak.com

“Watching the game” requires so much more than just a set of eyes and a functioning television. To get the most out of your sporting event of choice, a few more ingredients are necessary: good food, copious beer and room for friends. The Bulldog combines those elements better than anywhere else. Crowd into a plush booth or sit around a high-top table, order a crawfish pie to share and take your pick from the walllong line of draft beer—now, that’s watching the game. —Kathleen M. Mitchell Second: Last Call Sports Grill (1428 Old Square Road, 601-713-2700) / Third: Alumni House Sports Grill (110 Bass Pro Drive, Pearl, 601-896-0253) / Good Showing: Buffalo Wild Wings (808 Lake Harbour Drive, Ridgeland, 601-856-0789); Time Out Sports Café (6270 Old Canton Road, 601-978-1839)

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January 23 - 29, 2013

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Best College Student Hangout (tie): Ole Tavern on George Street; Fenian’s Pub Ole Tavern on George Street (416 George St., 601-960-2700) Fenian’s Pub (901 E. Fortification St., 601-948-0055, fenianspub.com)

Southern flair and friendly neighborhood bar atmospheres make Fenian’s Pub and the Ole Tavern on George Street the most ideal places for local college students to chill. Few other establishments in Jackson have the diverse appeal of Fenian’s, from karaoke nights to pub quizzes. “You can come alone and leave with friends,” says manager T. Francis. Meanwhile, Jackson’s beloved Ole Tavern is what most college-town bars should aspire to be. Sure, it’s urbane without seeming elitist, but more importantly, it’s just downright cool. —Micah Smith Second: The Bulldog (6111 Ridgewood Road, 601-978-3502) / Third: Club Magoo’s (824 S. State St., 601-487-8710) / Good Showing: Cups: An Espresso Café (Multiple Locations, cupsespressocafe.com); Sneaky Beans (2914 N. State St., 601-487-6349); University Place Bar and Grill (1100 John R. Lynch St., Suite 10, 601-366-5441)

DINEJackson CHEERS! Paid listyour yourrestaurant.r restaurant.r Paid advertising advertising section. section. Call Call 601-362-6121 601-362-6121 x11 x1 totolist

AMERICAN/SOUTHERN CUISINE Another Broken Egg (1000 Highland Colony #1009 in Renaissance, 601.790.9170) Open Daily 7am-2pm for breakfast, brunch and lunch. Two Sisters Kitchen (707 N. Congress St. 601-353-1180) Lunch. Mon-Fri, Sun. Koinonia (136 Adams St. 601-960-3008) Coffeehouse plus lunch and more! Broad Street Bakery (4465 Interstate 55 N. 601-362-2900) Hot breakfast,coffee espresso drinks, fresh breads and pastries, gourmet deli sandwiches. For Heaven’s Cakes (4950 Old Canton Road 601-991-2253) Cakes and cupcakes for all occasions including weddings, parties, catered events.

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PIZZA The Pizza Shack (925 E. Fortification 601-352-2001) New locations in Belhaven and a second spot in Colonial Mart on Old Canton Rd. in Northeast Jackson. Sal & Mookie’s (565 Taylor St. 601-368-1919) Pizzas of all kinds plus pasta, eggplant parmesan and the fried ravioli. Bring the kids for ice cream! Mellow Mushroom (275 Dogwood Blvd, Flowood, 601-992-7499) More than just great pizza and beer. Open Monday - Friday 11-10 and Saturday 11-11.

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ITALIAN BRAVO! (4500 Interstate 55 N., Jackson, 601-982-8111) Award-winning wine list, Jackson’s see-and-be-seen casual/upscale dining. Cerami’s (5417 Lakeland Drive, Flowood, 601-919-28298) Southern-style Italian cuisine features their signature Shrimp Cerami. STEAK, SEAFOOD & FINE DINING Islander Seafood and Oyster House (601-366-5441) Seafood, po’boys and oyster house. Casual fine dining that’s family-friendly with a beach vibe. Crab’s (6954 Old Canton Rd., Ridgeland, 601-956-5040) Crab’s Seafood Shack offers a wide variety of southern favorites such as fried catfish and boiled shrimp. Eslava’s Grille (2481 Lakeland Drive, 601-932-4070) Latin-influenced dishes like ceviche in addition to pastas, steaks, salads and other signature seafood dishes. Rocky’s (1046 Warrington Road, Vicksburg 601-634-0100) Enjoy choice steaks, fresh seafood, great salads, hearty sandwiches. The Penguin (1100 John R Lynch Street, 769.251.5222) Fine dining at its best. SOUTH OF THE BORDER Babalu (622 Duling Ave., 601-366-5757) Fresh guacamole at the table, fish tacos, empanada, smoked pork sholders, Mexican street corn. Jaco’s Tacos (318 South State Street) Tacos, burritos and quesadillas. Tex-Mex at its finest and freshest. La Morena (6610 Old Canton Road Suite J, Ridgeland, 601-899-8821) Tortillas made fresh order. Authentic, Mexican Cuisine (not Tex-Mex). Mexican Cokes! Fernando’s Fajita Factory (5647 Hwy 80 E in Pearl, 601-932-8728 and 149 Old Fannin Rd in Brandon, 601-992-6686) A culinary treat traditional Mexican.

Thanks for the votes and a great 2012. We look forward to serving you in 2013! 4949 Old Canton Road | 601-956-5108

www.briarwoodwineandspirits.com

NATHAN S. M CHARDY & LESLEY M CHARDY OWNERS & SOMMELIERS

601.664.7588

1002 Treetop Blvd • Flowood Behind the Applebee’s on Lakeland www.fusionjapanesethaicuisine.com

MEDITERRANEAN/GREEK Aladdin Mediterranean Grill (730 Lakeland Drive 601-366-6033) Delicious authentic dishes including lamb dishes, hummus, falafel, kababs, shwarma. BARBEQUE Hickory Pit Barbeque (1491 Canton Mart Rd. 601-956-7079) The “Best Butts in Town” features BBQ chicken, beef and pork along with burgers and po’boys. Haute Pig (1856 Main Street, 601-853-8538) A “very high class pig stand,” Haute Pig offers Madison diners BBQ plates, sandwiches, po-boys, salads. COFFEE HOUSES Cups Espresso Café (Multiple Locations, www.cupsespressocafe.com) Jackson’s local group of coffeehouses offer a wide variety of espresso drinks. Wi-fi.

ASIAN AND INDIAN Mr. Chen’s (5465 I 55 North, 601-978-1865) Fresh authentic Chinese Food, located within an actual grocery store with many unique produce offerings. Ruchi India (862 Avery Blvd @ County Line Rd. 601-991-3110) Classic Indian recipes, lost delicacies, alluring aromas and exotic ingredients. Fantastic Indian cuisine from multiple regions. Lamb, vegetarian, chicken, shrimp and more. Pan Asia (720 Harbor Pines Dr, Ridgeland 601-956-2958) Beautiful ambiance and signature asian fusion dishes and build-your-own stir-frys. Thai House (1405 Old Square, 601-982-9991) Voted one of Jackson’s best Asian 2003-2012,offers a variety of freshly made springrolls, pad thai, moo satay, curry. VEGETARIAN High Noon Café (2807 Old Canton Road in Rainbow Plaza 601-366-1513) Fresh, gourmet, tasty and healthy defines the lunch options at Jackson’s own strict vegetarian (and very-veganfriendly) restaurant adjacent to Rainbow Whole Foods.

Thank You Metro Jackson Our First Year In Business Was A Success Because Of You Finalist For: • Best New Restaurant • Best Taqueria • Every Wednesdays 2-for-1 House Margaritas • $1 Tecates 318 South State Street | Jackson, MS | 601.961.7001 www.jacostacos.com

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BARS, PUBS & BURGERS Burgers and Blues (1060 E. County Line Road, Ridgeland 601-899-0038) Best Burger of 2012, plus live music and entertainment! Hal and Mal’s (200 S. Commerce St. 601-948-0888) Pub favorites meet Gulf Coast and Cajun specialties like red beans and rice, the Oyster Platter or daily specials. Cherokee Inn (960 Briarfield Rd. 601-362-6388) Jackson’s “Best Hole in the Wall,” has a great jukebox, great bar and a great burger. Cool Al’s (4654 McWillie, 601-713-3020) Cool Al’s signature stacked, messy, decadent, creative burgers defy adjectives. And don’t forget the fries! Fenian’s Pub (901 E. Fortification St. 601-948-0055) Classic Irish pub featuring a menu of traditional food, pub sandwiches and Irish beers on tap. Martin’s Restaurant and Lounge (214 South State Street 601-354-9712) Lunch specials, pub appetizers or order from the full menu of po-boys and entrees. Full bar, beer selection. Ole Tavern on George Street (416 George St. 601-960-2700) Pub food with a southern flair: beer-battered onion rings, chicken & sausage gumbo, salads, sandwiches. Underground 119 (119 South President St. 601-352-2322) Pan-seared crabcakes, shrimp and grits, filet mignon, vegetarian sliders. Live music. Opens 4 p.m., Wed-Sat Wing Stop (952 North State Street, 601-969-6400) Saucing and tossing in a choice of nine flavors, Wing Stop wings are made with care and served up piping hot.

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January 23 - 29, 2013

7 OUT OF 10

50

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jacksonfreepress.com

Best Casino for Shows, Best Casino Hotel: Beau Rivage Resort and Casino

Best Casino for Gaming: Ameristar Casino

875 Beach Blvd., Biloxi, 888-567-6667, 228-386-7111, beaurivage.com

COURTESY SHAWANDA JACOME

Sometimes you just need to get away, even if it’s just for the weekend. A change of scenery is a great way to de-stress from the woes of your everyday routine. The Beau Rivage Resort and Casino is a delightful option just three hours down south on the Gulf Coast. The MGM Resorts International property is the tallest and largest building in Mississippi, standing 32 stories with 3.2 million square feet of space to enjoy. “The Beau” features 1,645 guest rooms (95 of which are luxury suites), a redesigned casino floor, 12 restaurants, four lounges and bars, 12 retail venues, spa and salon, pool and convention center. If you want to hit the fairway, visitors can play a few rounds of golf at Fallen Oak. After you have relaxed, exercised and feasted, you can take in some night-time

entertainment in their 1,550-seat theater. The 2013 line-up includes Comedian Rodney Carrington (Feb. 1-2), Diana Ross (Feb. 9), The Moody Blues (March 16), Vince Gill (March 22), Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo (April 19) and Joan Jett and the Blackhearts (May 3). —ShaWanda Jacome Best Casino for Shows Second: Ameristar Casino (4146 S. Washington St., Vicksburg, 601-638-1000) / Third: Hard Rock Hotel & Casino (777 Beach Blvd., Biloxi, 228-374-7625) / Good Showing: Imperial Palace Casino Resort Spa (850 Bayview Ave., Biloxi, 888-946-2847); Pearl River Resort (13550 Highway 16 W., Philadelphia, 601-663-0656)

Best Casino Hotel Second: Ameristar Casino (4146 S. Washington St., Vicksburg, 601-638-1000) / Third: Hard Rock Hotel & Casino (777 Beach Blvd., Biloxi, 228374-7625) / Good Showing: Imperial Palace Casino Resort Spa (850 Bayview Ave., Biloxi, 888-946-2847); Pearl River Resort (13550 Highway 16 W., Philadelphia, 601663-0656)

4146 S. Washington St., Vicksburg, 601-638-1000, ameristar.com/Vicksburg

“Is that a unicorn?” “No, it’s a quadricorn.” If you haven’t seen the widely popular Ameristar quadricorn commercials, I venture to say you must have been living under a rock in 2012. Ameristar has been garnering a lot of extra attention with its quirky commercials including: Quadricorns Rule, Panda Power, Wicked Beauty and Baron Von Bacon. The 70,000-square-foot riverboat casino features 1,500 of the latest and most popular slot machines, 29 table games and a 10-table poker room. The full-service hotel also has 149 well-appointed rooms, a pool, three dining venues, 2 bars and entertainment venues and a full-service RV park. Yet, Ameristar is not just about the getting, but also the giving. According to its mission, it strives to help improve the quality of life in the communities in which its properties are located. In 2011, the company donated nearly $6.8 million to community organizations where its eight properties are located. —ShaWanda Jacome Second: Beau Rivage (875 Beach Blvd., Biloxi, 888-567-6667, 228-386-7111) / Third: Hard Rock Hotel & Casino (777 Beach Blvd., Biloxi, 228-374-7625) / Good Showing: Pearl River Resort (13550 Highway 16 W., Philadelphia, 601-663-0656); Riverwalk Casino (1046 Warrenton Road, Vicksburg, 601-634-0100)

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STEWPOT 52

community services

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

4/25/12 3:06 PM

Thank You for voting us 2013 finalists:

Best Non-profit in Jackson

Winner for the years of 2004 • 2005 • 2006 • 2007 • 2008 • 2009 • 2010 • 2011 • 2012

We really appreciate your support and look forward to making 2013 our best year yet. STEWPOT COMMUNITY SERVICES, INC. - METRO JACKSON’S INTER-FAITH MINISTRY 1100 WEST CAPITOL STREET, JACKSON, MS 39203 • 601-353-2759

Neat Used Things for Sale a different kind of resale store

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Named One of Jackson’s Best Thrift/Consignment Stores Since 2004! NUTS Midtown

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NUTS Fondren

Specializing in upscale clothing and home decor 3011 N. State Street Jackson, MS 39202 (601)366-9633 Mon - Fri 10:00am - 5:30pm Saturday 10am - 5:30pm

NUTS at the Flowood Flea Market Mississippi’s Trade Place Flowood Drive Flowood, MS 39232 Saturday 9:00am - 5:00pm Sunday 12:00pm - 5:00pm

FOR STATE SENATE FEB 5TH DISTRICT #28 As state senator, I believe I can bring transformative and sustainable change and move the people’s efforts to the next level. I’m deeply committed to the people in District 28 and bringing their voices to the table.

I’M COMMITTED TO :

EDUCATION: “Fully Funding Education, NOT Charter Schools. HEALTH: “EXPANDING MEDICAIDE CHILD CARE: “Accessbile and Affordable Child Care.” ECONOMIC GROWTH: Getting more dollars into our communities to stimulate growth

jacksonfreepress.com

Visit Cassandra Welchlin at www.cassandrawelchlin.com. Follow her on twitter Vote_CassandraW To volunteer and/or make donations please visit www.cassandrawelchlin.com , email supporters@cassandrawelchlin.com.

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“Z

ero Dark Thirty,” directed and produced by Kathryn Bigelow, should have been called “Hurry Up and Wait,” and then wait some more until Navy SEAL Team 6 does its job with exquisite precision. Teased as a dramatic thriller, the film creeps through a decade of needle-in-the-haystack intelligence work that leads to tracking and killing Osama bin Laden. Bigelow and producer-screenwriter Mark Boal (who worked with Bigelow on the Academy Award-winning “The Hurt Locker”) do not reduce the issues in the bin Laden hunt to fit tags of “good” and “evil.” They use no melodramatic shortcuts. In fact, the movie contains precious little drama. After all, we all know how this ends. When “The Event” finally happens, it seems like a denouement, not the high point of the film. This isn’t one of those patriotic jingoist films where you do fist pumps to celebrate a “we did it” moment. The picture begins without imagery. A black screen fades up with the words “September 11, 2001.” Over black, we hear a cacophony of voices calling for help or seeking reassurance. “I love you,” one voice says. Another says, “It’s so hot, I’m burning up.” Someone asks, “Am I going to die?” The voices topple over each other and turn into indecipherable noise. We can’t understand what is said, and the lack of imagery keeps us in the dark, which is how the entire country felt on that horrible, unforgettable day. The film picks up two years later at a CIA black site somewhere far from U.S. soil. A rugged, but affable guy (Jason Clarke) knocks around an al-Qaeda prisoner. “If you lie to me, I will hurt you,” Dan says in a reasonable tone. Ammar (Reda Kateb) doesn’t respond. Dan leaves. He tells Maya (Jessica Chastain), the junior member of the intelligence team, that she can watch the interrogation from a monitor. She indicates that she can handle what is to come. Maya possesses a razor-edge of sociopathic indiffer-

ence toward dealing with terrorists. Dan and Maya eventually coerce Ammar into divulging that an old acquaintance using the alias Abu Ahmed works as a personal courier for bin Laden. Maya devotes nearly a decade of her CIA career into assessing whether Abu Ahmed actually exists. It’s a slow and painful process involving interrogation, torture, review of DVDs and dogmatic determination when the trail cools off. The movie doesn’t avoid the subject of torture; it embraces it and wrestles it into our psyches. We see graphic renditions of waterboarding, the dog collar exercise, exposure of a prisoner’s ‘junk” and a litany of other barbaric perversities consistent with so-called “enhanced interrogation techniques.” Everyone breaks sooner or later, but is the information any good? While the film doesn’t endorse torture, Boal’s screenplay suggests that torture was the way the CIA got meaningful information on bin Laden, and without it, the CIA would not have been successful. The ambiguity in the screenplay has led to a highly publicized debate in the court of popular opinion. Boal has lawyered up, wrote Michael Cieply in a New York Times article. “Washington wants answers, and an industry fears the loss of advisers there.” It’s a messy controversy, which means that “Zero Dark Thirty” is losing its edge for a Best Picture Academy Award. Despite Bigelow’s docu-drama directing, which earned her the Best Director Academy Award for “The Hurt Locker,” and a strong cast led by Chastain, nothing in this film ever connects at a gut level. Maya is a lone wolf who is emotionally aloof and generally unlikeable. Clarke’s character has charm, but he leaves the main action so quickly that we are left with an emotional vacuum. None of the other characters resonate, in part because Maya has no real relationships with them. The film lacks a strong narrative pull. By the time the SEALs enter the picture, you will feel relief. The movie is finally over.

WEDNESDAY 01/23

Pub Quiz with Andrew

THURSDAY 01/24

Aine O’Doherty & Danny Burns (Traditional Irish)

FRIDAY 01/25

Larry Waters Duo (Funk/Blues)

SATURDAY 01/26

Jenkins Duo (Acoustic Rock)

MONDAY 01/28

Karaoke w/ Matt TUESDAY 01/29

Open Mic with Jason Bailey

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59

THURSDAY 1/24

FRIDAY 1/25

Mississippi Symphony Orchestra’s brass ensemble performs at the Old Capitol.

“The Romanian Uranium Mystery” is at 7 p.m. at Calvary First Baptist Church.

TUESDAY 1/29 Bluesman Ben Payton’s farewell party is at 6 p.m. at Underground 119.

BEST BETS JAN. 23-30, 2013

Millsaps College art department chairwoman Sandra Murchison discusses her mixed-media interpretations of the Mississippi Blues Trail during History Is Lunch at noon at the William F. Winter Archives and History Building (200 North St.). Free; call 601-576-6998. … Jewish Cinema Mississippi kicks off at 7:15 p.m. at Malco Grandview Theatre (221 Grandview Blvd., Madison). Continues Jan. 24 and Jan. 26-27. $10, $5 students; festival pass: $40, $20 students; call 601-572-6122; jewishcinemams.com.

THURSDAY 1/24

COURTESY MELISSA TILLMAN

The Mississippi Symphony Orchestra’s brass ensemble performs at 5:30 p.m. at the Old Capitol Museum (100 S. State St.); reception follows. $40; call 601-576-6855. … The simulcast “The Best of RiffTrax Live: ‘Manos’ The Hands of Fate” airs at 7:30 p.m. at Tinseltown (411 Riverwind Drive,

Pearl). $11.50, $10.50 seniors and students, $9.50 children; call 601-936-5856; cinemark.com.

January 23 - 29, 2013

dren. $20 in advance, $25 at the door; call 601-974-5700. … “The Romanian Uranium Mystery” Dinner Theater is at 7 p.m. at Calvary First Baptist Church (5140 Galaxie Drive). Includes four-course meal. Seating limited; RSVP. Encore shows Jan. 26 at 1 p.m. and 6 p.m., and Jan. 27 at 6 p.m. $10; call 601-715-6593. … The musical “Smoke on the Mountain” is at 7:30 p.m. at Vicksburg Theatre Guild’s Parkside Playhouse (101 Iowa Blvd., Vicksburg); runs through BY LATASHA WILLIS Feb. 3. Shows are Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m., and JACKSONFREEPRESS.COM Sundays at 2 p.m. $12, $10 seniors 55 and older, $7 students, FAX: 601-510-9019 children 12 and under; call 601DAILY UPDATES AT 636-0471. … Pianist Chris JFPEVENTS.COM Parker and vocalist Kelly Hurt perform tonight and tomorrow at 9 p.m. at Yellow Scarf. Master drummer Alvin Fielder performs with them Jan. 25, and jazz percussionist Chad Anderson joins them Jan. 26. Doors open at 8 p.m. Purchase light beer or wine, or BYOB. $20 online, $25 at the door; call 347-754-0668; yellowscarf-jackson.com.

EVENTS@

SATURDAY 1/26

Ashia Kendrick, Quintin Lewis, Neill Kelly, Lauren Hester and Mary Frances Dean perform in the play “The Cat in the Hat” Jan. 26 and Feb. 2-3 at New Stage Theatre.

FRIDAY 1/25

The Art for Heart Gala is at 6 p.m. at the Country Club of Jackson (345 St. Andrews Drive). The fundraiser for the American Heart Association includes a cocktail party, dinner, live and silent auctions, an award presentation and entertainment. $250; call 601-321-1200. … Rock the Runway is at 6:30 p.m. at the Jackson Convention Complex. Includes a social hour, music and a fashion show. Proceeds benefit 60 Matt’s House and Sims House, shelters for women and chil-

COURTESY ALANA JACKSON

WEDNESDAY 1/23

The Dixie National Livestock Show kicks off at the Mississippi Coliseum (1207 Mississippi St.) with the Appaloosa Horse Show at 10 a.m. in the Kirk Fordice Equine Center; other shows continue through Feb. 17, and times vary. Save the date for the Dixie National Rodeo, Feb. 7-13. Free livestock shows; rodeo: $15-$24; call 601-961-4000 or 800-745-3000. … The play “Dr. Seuss’ The Cat in the Hat” is at 2 p.m. at New Stage Theatre (1100 Carlisle St.) and runs through Feb. 3. A party follows the Saturday performance; seating limited. $15, $10 children 12 and under, $10 party; call 601-948-3533. … The Mississippi Symphony Orchestra presents “Pops II: Take it to the Limit – The Music of the Eagles” featuring the Jeans ’n Classics Band at 7:30 p.m. at Thalia Mara Hall (255 E. Pascagoula St.). $20 and up; call 601-960-1565. … The comedy show Power of the Mic is at 9:30 p.m. at Suite 106 (106 Wilmington St.). Performers include Q, Randy Curry, Mercer Morrison and Redd Baby. Enjoy music from Kerry Thomas, No Script and DJ Dawggie Dawg. Doors open at 9 p.m. $5; call 646-801-1275.

SUNDAY 1/27

The JFP honors the 2013 Best of Jackson winners at 6 p.m.; finalists can email party@jacksonfreepress.com to get on the list for the private event.

WRBJ 97.7 FM’s Tambra Cherie co-hosts Rock the Runway at the Jackson Convention Complex Jan. 25 at 6:30 p.m.

MONDAY 1/28

See the exhibits “Visible Women” and “Visual Poetry of Crossing Shapes and Lines in Silent Gestures” through Feb. 8 at Lewis Art Gallery (Millsaps College, Ford Academic Complex, 1701 N. State St.). Free; call 601-974-1762. … Blue Man Group performs at 7:30 p.m. at Thalia Mara Hall; encore show Jan. 29. $20-$62.50; call 800-745-3000.

TUESDAY 1/29

Ben Payton’s farewell party is 6 p.m. at Underground 119. The bluesman is moving to North Carolina. No cover; benpayton.com.

WEDNESDAY 1/30

Artist Bebe Wolfe talks about her art, and her parents Karl and Mildred Wolfe during History Is Lunch at noon at the Old Capitol Museum (100 S. State St.). Free; call 601576-6998. More at jfpevents.com and jfp.ms/musicvenues.

WEEKLY EVENT CALENDAR WEDNESDAYS

LADIES NIGHT

1/23

1/2 OFF DRINKS FOR LADIES 5PM - UNTIL MUSIC STARTS AT 8PM • DJ JUGALA THURSDAYS

1/24

$4 APPETIZERS • 5 -9PM

SPACE CAPONE FRIDAY

1/25

R I B E Y E S T E A K S & B A K E D P OTATO E S

ZACH LOVETT 6-10 PM

ALVIN YOUNGBLOOD HART’S MUSCLE THEORY 10 PM SPECIALS ON DEAD GUY ALE SATURDAY

MONDAY

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1/26

1/28

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OPEN MIC 10pm

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SHRIMP BOIL • 5 - 10 PM

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Mark Whittington 6 - 10pm Sat. Feb 9: Nappy Roots w/ Special Guest Sat. Feb 16: Bloodkin

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UPCOMING SHOWS

61

*&0 30/.3/2%$ %6%.43 Thu. Jan. 24 Amazin’ Lazi Boi Band every thursday midnight

Best of Jackson Party Jan. 27, 6-11 p.m., at Metrocenter Mall, center court (3645 Highway 80 W.). By invitation only; finalists may email party@jacksonfreepress.com to get on the guest list. Others can subscribe free to jfpdaily.com for future event invites, as well as breaking news.

#/--5.)49

Fri. & Sat. Jan. 25 & 26

Sherman Lee Dillon & The Mississippi Sound

OPEN LATE • SECURITY PROVIDED

• Lunch and Learn Series Jan. 30, noon-1 p.m. The topic is “Understanding the Affordable Care Act as an Employer.” Lunch included; registration required. $15, members free. Leadership Development Series: Succession Planning with Your Board Jan. 24, 4-6 p.m., at Millsaps College (1701 N. State St.). Learn the importance of maintaining leadership continuity through planning ahead. Registration required. $35, $25 members; call 601968-0061; msnonprofits.org.

American Board Teaching Information Sessions. Learn how to earn a professional teaching license. Teacher certification specialist Ashley Guy is the facilitator. Bachelor’s degree required. Online registration available. Free; call 877-669-2228; abcte.org. • Jan. 23, 4:30 p.m. and 6 p.m., at Ridgeland Public Library (397 Highway 51, Ridgeland). • Jan. 29, 4:30 p.m. and 6 p.m., at YMCA Downtown Jackson (800 E. River Place).

Fondren Town Hall Meeting Jan. 24, 5:30 p.m., at Broadmeadow United Methodist Church (4419 Broadmeadow Drive). Neighborhood organizations share their plans for 2013 and ways to get involved. Free; call 601-981-9606.

Events at Metrocenter Mall (3645 Highway 80 W.). • LIHEAP (Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program) Awareness Day Jan. 25, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Learn more about the program for seniors and citizens with disabilities who live in Hinds County and receive federal assistance. The program also includes vendors, health screenings and refreshments. Free; call 601-923-3950. • Mayor’s Summer Youth Employment Program Registration through March 1 At the Department of Human and Cultural Services. Students ages 16-24 may register from 9 a.m.4 p.m. weekdays. The deadline is March 1 at 4 p.m. Birth certificate, Social Security card, parent’s proof of income and ID required. Free; call 601-960-0326.

Homebuyer Education Class Jan. 26, 8:30 a.m.5 p.m., at Jackson Housing Authority Homeownership Center (256 E. Fortification St.). Topics include personal finances, home inspections and the role of lenders and real-estate agents. Registration required. The class is required to qualify for a Jackson Housing Authority loan. Free; call 601398-0446.

Events at Mississippi Center for Nonprofits (201 W. Capitol St.). Call 601-968-0061; msnonprofits.org. • The Right Way to Start a Nonprofit Jan. 25, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Topics including completing IRS Form 1023, creating bylaws and establishing a board of directors. Guidebook included. Registration required. $125, $49 guidebook only.

Precinct 4 COPS Meeting Jan. 24, 6 p.m., at Redeemer Church (640 E. Northside Drive). These monthly forums are designed to help resolve community issues or problems, from crime to potholes. Free; call 601-960-0004.

Got Fish? Jan. 26, 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m., at Mississippi Museum of Natural Science (2148 Riverside Drive). The fishing seminar includes tips on selecting lures, tying knots and other fishing techniques. Watch a diver feed the fish in the aquariums. Free with admission ($6, $5 seniors, $4 ages 3-18, children under 3 and members free); call 601-576-6000; msnaturalscience.org. Delta Technical College Winter Open House Jan. 26, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., at Delta Technical College (113 Marketridge Drive, Ridgeland). Tour the campus and learn about the school’s workforce training programs. Enjoy free screenings, door prizes, refreshments and half off salon services. Free; call 601-206-5200; deltatechnical college.com. H.O.T.G.I.R.L.S. Empowerment Program Orientation Jan. 26, 2-4 p.m., at Eudora Welty Library (300 N. State St.), in the conference

Loud and Blue

January 23 - 29, 2013

62

COURTESY BLUE MAN GROUP

F

or a black-clad, blue-skinned mute trio, the Blue Man Group sure does make a lot of noise. Using instruments fashioned out of garbage cans, large pipes and other found objects, the group makes music that fills an auditorium. Even visually, the crew is noisy, splattering paint in neon hues across the stage. Combining The Blue Man Group brings its elements of “Stomp,” Jackson Pollack and unique sound—and color—to mime into a rock concert like no other, the Jackson Jan. 28 and 29. show is messy, chaotic and thrilling. The Blue Man Group was founded in New York City in 1987 by Chris Wink, Matt Goldman and Phil Stanton. In the two decades since, the group’s popularity has skyrocketed, allowing them to install permanent shows in cities such as Las Vegas, Chicago and Boston, as well as a tour. The touring troupe makes a pit stop in Jackson early next week, performing at Thalia Mara Hall. The Blue Man Group performs at Thalia Mara Hall (255 E. Pascagoula St., 601-960-1537) Jan. 28 and 29 at 7:30 p.m. For tickets, visit ticketmaster.com. —Kathleen M. Mitchell

Real Girl Magazine’s First Birthday Party Jan. 26, 3-5 p.m., at Jackson Medical Mall (350 W. Woodrow Wilson Ave.). Enjoy live entertainment, door prizes and more. Real Girl Magazine is a publication for teen girls. Free; call 982-8467; realgirlmag.com.

Mississippi Watercolor Society Art Exhibition through Jan. 31, at Municipal Art Gallery (839 N. State St.). See watercolor paintings from several artists through Jan. 31. Free; call 601960-1582.

Around the World Wine Dinner Jan. 28, 6:30 p.m., at Amerigo Italian Restaurant (6592 Old Canton Road). Enjoy a four-course meal paired with wines from countries such as Austria and Argentina. RSVP. $40; call 601-977-0563.

,)4%2!29 !.$ 3)'.).'3

Mississippi Municipal League Mid-winter Conference Jan. 29-31, at Hilton Jackson (1001 E. County Line Road). The annual event includes lectures, workshops, planning and elections. Registration required. $200, members: $135 plus $25 guest/spouse fee by Jan. 4, $185 after; call 601353-5854 or 800-325-7641; mmlonline.com. Mayor’s Ward 3 Community Meeting Jan. 29, 6 p.m., at Cade Chapel M.B. Church (1000 W. Ridgeway St.). Share suggestions, address concerns and receive information on services the city provides. The WIN Job Center will have a representative available to discuss job opportunities. Free; call 601-960-1084. “Starting Your Operating Your Own Business� Seminar Series Jan. 29, Feb. 5 and Feb. 12, 6:308:30 p.m., at Lingofest Language Center (7048 Old Canton Road, Suite 1003-A, Ridgeland). Entrepreneur David C. McNair is the speaker. Seating limited; RSVP. Free; call 601-500-7700; email labalink@gmail.com.

7%,,.%33 Events at Baptist Health Systems, Madison Campus (401 Baptist Drive, Madison) in the Community Room. • Taking Care of You: It’s Time Jan. 28, 11:45 a.m.-1 p.m. Dr. Meredith Travelstead given women tips on fitness, nutrition and relaxation. Registration required. Free, $5 optional lunch; call 601-948-6262; mbhs.org. • Advancements in Coronary Artery Disease Jan. 29, 11:45 a.m.-1 p.m. Dr. James Warnock explains symptoms and treatment options. Registration required. Free, $5 optional lunch; call 601-948-6262; mbhs.org. Events at Dance Unlimited Studio, Byram (6787 S. Siwell Road, Suite A, Byram). $4-$5; peure.zumba.com. • Zumba Toning Classes Wednesdays, 6:507:35 p.m. The class incorporates Latin-inspired aerobics and body-sculpting exercises. Purchase toning sticks or use 1- to 2-pound weights. • Zumba Sentao Classes Saturdays, 9:4510:15 a.m. The exercise class incorporates Latininspired aerobics and chair-based choreography. Space limited; reservation required. Are You at Risk for Cervical Cancer? Jan. 24, 11:45 a.m.-1 p.m., at Baptist Medical Center (1225 N. State St.), in the Baptist for Women Conference Room. Dr. James Moore Jr. explains causes, symptoms and prevention strategies. Registration required. Free, $5 optional lunch.

%8()")43 !.$ /0%.).'3 Rainforest Adventure Exhibit through May 12, at Mississippi Museum of Natural Science (2148

Events at Lemuria Books (Banner Hall, 4465 Interstate 55 N., Suite 202). Call 601-366-7619; lemuriabooks.com. • “Tenth of December: Storiesâ€? Jan. 23, 5 p.m. George Saunders signs books. Reading at 5:30 p.m. $26 book. • “The Genius Files: You Only Die Twiceâ€? Jan. 25, 5 p.m. Dan Gutman signs books. $16.99 book. • “Mama Dean’s Southern Cooking at Meador Homesteadâ€? Jan. 26, 1 p.m. Dean Meador Smith signs books. $34.95 book. Events at Mississippi Children’s Museum (2145 Highland Drive). $8, children 12 months and under free; call 601-981-5469. • Storytelling Festival Jan. 26, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Listen to tales from professional storytellers and participate in related activities. • Ready to Roar Reading Time. TuesdaysFridays at 1 p.m., children enjoy listening to a story at the Between the Lions exhibit. Susan Puckett Lecture and Book Signing Jan. 30, 6 p.m., at Southern Cultural Heritage Center (1302 Adams St., Vicksburg), at the SCH Convent (corner of Adams and Crawford streets). Puckett is the author of “Eat Drink Delta.â€? Free, $24.95 book; call 601-631-2997. “The Genius Files: You Only Die Twiceâ€? Jan. 27, 4 p.m., at Square Books Jr. (111 Courthouse Square, Oxford). Dan Gutman signs books. $16.99 book; call 662-236-2262.

#2%!4)6% #,!33%3 Events at New Stage Theatre (1100 Carlisle St.). $150; call 601-948-3533; email education@ newstagetheatre.com; newstagetheatre.com. • Creative Dramatics and Acting Technique Class Registration, through Feb. 15. Children in grades 1-6 learn basic acting techniques. Classes are Saturdays at 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. from Feb. 16-April 6. The registration deadline is Feb. 15. • Creating a Character Class Registration through March 15. Students in junior high and high school develop a character to portray. Topics include scene work and textual analysis. The eight-week class starts March 18, and classes are Mondays from 5:30-7 p.m. Ballroom Dance Lessons Jan. 27, 5-6 p.m., at Southern Cultural Heritage Center (1302 Adams St., Vicksburg). James Frechette, owner of Applause Dance Factory, teaches the West Coast Swing in the Academy Building. $10 per person; call 601-631-2997. Check jfpevents.com for updates and more listings. To add an event, email all details (phone number, start and end date, time, street address, cost, URL, etc.) to events@jacksonfreepress.com or fax to 601510-9019. The deadline is noon the Thursday prior to the week of publication. Or add the event online yourself; check out jfpevents.com for instructions.

Thursday - January 24

Karaoke Contest $3 Pitchers

Friday - January 25

On The Edge Saturday - January 26

On The Edge Sunday - January 27 9 Ball Tournament 7pm

Thanks! For All The Votes

• All-You-Can-Eat Oysters on the Half Shell Sun-Tues after 6

Big Party for the Big Game

• All-You-Can-Eat Peel & Eat Shrimp Sun-Tues after 6

San Francisco vs. Baltimore

• Real Gambino Bread P-Boys!

• Crawfish Boil

Islander Seafood & Oyster House

• Lots of Giveaways

601-961-4747

• New Orleans Brunch every Sat & Sun 10-2

601.366.5441

www.IslanderOysterHouse.com Jackson, MS 39211 - Maywood Mart

www.myspace.com/popsaroundthecorner

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Riverside Drive). The interactive exhibit introduces children to rainforest around the world and includes role play. $6, $5 seniors, $4 ages 3-18, children under 3 and members free; call 601576-6000; msnaturalscience.org.

room. Learn about the 16- to 20-week program for girls ages 11-16 that includes lessons on decision making, healthy choices, basic life skills and social development. Registration required. Free; call 877-356-6163; tfagroup.org.

63

9.99

Weekly Lunch Specials

$

Open for dinner Sat. 4-10pm

THANK YOU

for
continuing
to
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2-for-1 House Wine

BEST OF JACKSON FINALIST FOR 2013

voting THANK Best YOUBarforus finalist in

• Best Burger • Best French Fries • Best Veggie Burger

2-for-1 Bottled Domestic Beer

Thursday

A new year. A new start. A new life.

January 17

LADIES NIGHT

w/ DJ Stache LADIES DRINK FREE Friday January 25

| FAX: 601-713-3021 601-713-3020 4654
McWillie
Drive
Jackson,
MS
 Mon-Thur,
10am
-
9pm
|
Fri-Sat,
10am-10pm Closed
on
Sundays

James-Younger

Gang

Saturday

January 26

Southern Komfor t Brass Band

Tuesday

January 29

Highlife, Highlife Lite, PBR, Schlitz, Fatty Natty Open Mic w/ Jason Turner

Wednesday January 30 January 23 - 29, 2013

KARAOKE w/ DJ STACHE

64

FREE WiFi

Thank You

for making us a finalist for: Best College Student Hangout Best Live Music Venue Best Place to Dance Best Place to Drink Cheap Best Live Music Venue

Jason Turner Friday, January 25

US

Saturday, January 26

Open Mon-Sat, Restaurant open Mon-Fri

11 am-10 pm & Sat 4-10 pm

- Thursday Night: Ladies Night -Karaoke with Matt (Wed - Sat)

facebook.com/Ole Tavern

824 S. State St. Jackson, MS www.clubmagoos.com • 601.487.8710

601-960-2700

LOOK, I Am MaKInG EverYTHInG NEW REV 21:5

Best Place Where Everyone Knows your Name Best College Student Hangout Best Open Mic Night Best Place to Dance

Explore The Journey with us on Sundays at 5:00 pm A community of people learning how to live and love like Jesus.

4101 Northview Drive, Ste C2 West Fondren, Jackson www.explorethejourney.org

DIVERSIONS | jfp sports

the best in sports over the next seven days

SLATE

by Bryan Flynn

L

A proper skate park solves several issues. Injuries are associated with every sports but Cannon explains “there is a lesser chance of injury by a skateboarder, skating on something that was made to be skated on.� Many communities also complain about skateboarders damaging property that is not deTATE K. NATIONS

S

kateboarding was born in California when surfers were looking for something to do when there were no waves. The sport broke away from the surf culture as it spread to the rest of the country (mainly urban) and moved to more areas that were unfamiliar with its surfing roots. The sport reached undreamed-of popularity with the creation of the X Games by ESPN and skater Tony Hawk’s breakthrough into popular culture. It went from being street skaters with a hoodlum stigma to mainstream athletic sport. Mississippi and Jackson are no exception to the rise of skateboarding—plenty of skateboarders live in this area and in the state. What is missing for these athletes are free skate parks. That is what Frank Henn and Austin Cannon are trying to provide through their organization, Skate MS. Cannon and Tate Nations founded Skate MS in 2001 in the form of an online forum, as a way to get other skaters to unite and express their needs. “The online forum fell apart after a few years, but Skate MS found a second life after the closing the only local skate park,� Cannon explains. “We saw the need for a public skate park and we restarted Skate MS as a non-profit foundation in 2010 to raise funds to build a free skate park.� The two men have been slowly building their dream of a Jackson skate park first by promoting their “Kids Need Fresh Air� campaign in April 2010. This campaign consisted of t-shirts, stickers and information-sharing about the benefits of skateboarding. “Right now, there is no free place for kids to go where skateboarding is allowed,� Cannon says. “The closest place is in Petal, Mississippi.�

Austin Cannon wants to provide a safe, free place for Jackson skateboarders.

signed to be skateboarded on. In addition, “concrete parks are durable and cost effective once they are built,� Cannon says. Cannon says that West Point and Vicksburg want Skate MS to be a part of building skate parks in those communities. Since March 2011, Henn and Cannon have served as consultants and technical advisers, learning the ins and outs of trying to build a public skate park. In Jackson, Cannon and Henn have been in talks with Midtown Partners about

building a skate park in the Benjamin Brown Park expansion. “We are trying to build interest in the community for Skate MS,� Cannon explains. “In December 2011, one of our ways of doing this was praetorian with other local organizations to give out 50 skateboards and helmets to underprivileged kids in Jackson.� Several local skateboarders even came out to give the kids lessons with their new skateboards. They held a similar skateboarding demonstration and clinic last week. Skate MS has a goal of raising $350,000 by December 2014 and a long way to go— the organization only has a few thousand dollars raised at this point. “We hope we begin to build momentum early this year and see monetary donations begin to grow,� Cannon says. “Currently we are trying to raise funds to build a skate park, even if we are not a part of the expansion of Benjamin Brown Park. We were lucky to get 40 local artists to help put together a double CD featuring various music genres.� The CD can be found on the Skate MS website with all the proceeds going to Skate MS foundation. Skate MS has partnered with the Community Foundation of Greater Jackson to become a non-profit. Cannon has a larger view of a skate park if he and Skate MS can build it. “We are not building this skate park the kids who already skateboard, we are building this skate park for the kids who haven’t experienced skateboarding yet,� he says. Anyone interested in bringing a free, public skate park to Jackson can contact Cannon and Henn via skatems.com. You can also donate money, keep up with what Skate MS is doing in the community and keep track of the park’s progress.

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Congratulations to former Jackson State star Lindsey Hunter on being named interim coach of the Phoenix Suns. And good luck—the Suns are in last place in the Western Conference. THURSDAY, JAN. 24 College basketball (6-8 p.m., ESPN 2): Ole Miss tries to stay undefeated in SEC play and continue their march to the NCAA Tournament at home against the Tennessee Volunteers. FRIDAY, JAN. 25 NBA (7-9:30 p.m., ESPN): The San Antonio Spurs face the Dallas Mavericks in a battle featuring two of three NBA teams from the Lone Star State. SATURDAY, JAN. 26 College basketball (7-9 p.m., Fox Sports Network): Rick Ray and his rebuilding Mississippi State Bulldogs will have their hands full at home against the best team in the SEC, the Florida Gators. SUNDAY, JAN. 27 NFL (6-9 p.m., NBC): One week before the Super Bowl, the best players from the NFC and AFC head to Honolulu, Hawaii, to play in the Pro Bowl. MONDAY, JAN. 28 College basketball (6-8 p.m., ESPN): The Pittsburgh Panthers face a potential Final Four team, the Louisville Cardinals, in a Big East contest. TUESDAY, JAN. 29 College basketball (8-10 p.m., ESPN): Ole Miss has another tough test against the young but talented Kentucky Wildcats. WEDNESDAY, JAN. 30 College basketball (8-10 p.m. CSS): Mississippi State welcomes SEC newcomer the Texas A&M Aggies to Starkville in basketball. One of the best tight ends in NFL history could be calling it a career. So long to Tony Gonzalez, who opened the door for other tight ends with basketball backgrounds, Antonio Gates and Jimmy Graham. Follow Bryan Flynn at jfpsports.com, @jfpsports and at facebook.com/jfpsports

jacksonfreepress.com

A Place for Skaters

by Bryan Flynn

65

Trace Station 500 Hwy 51 Suite L Ridegeland, MS 601.427.5163

Rusty Riley, DMD

Thank You For Voting Us a Finalist

One Trusted Office For All Of Your Dental Needs.

Thank You

for voting Dr. Rusty Riley as one of the BEST Dentists in Jackson

Best Wine Store Best of Jackson 2013

4500 I-55 North Suite 238 Jackson, MS 39211 601.366.1117 www.rustyrileydmd.com

• Pedicure & Manicure • Gel Acrylics • Shellac/Gel Polish • Dresses • Shoes • Formal Dresses for Homecoming • Accessories • Much more‌ Nail services by appointment only.

Where fashion meets beauty‌

(Visit our Facebook Page for Specials & Promotions)

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Molecules Hair Salon

794 Hwy 51 Suite #A • Madison, MS 39110 601-605-4511

Announcing Chef Brenda’s To Go Pick Up • Delivered • Catered

601-957-2800

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on State Street

Thank you for making us a finalist for best wings!

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We Offer... •Sterling Silver & Gold beads •Various types of stringing material • Beautiful Czech & Swarovski Crystals • Tools you need to create your own.

• 19 Beers On Tap • Live Music • 50¢ Boneless Wings • $10 Pitcher Abita • $2 Pint Abita

FTS]TbSPh =XVWc Yazoo Beer • $10 pitcher • $2 pint

CWdabSPh =XVWc January 23 - 29, 2013

All-You-Can-Eat

66

$20 wings & draft beer Classes ages 8+

Basic Bead Stringing Prayer Bracelet • Rosary Class •Glass Bead Making • Knot those Pearls 398 Hwy. 51 • Ridgeland, MS (601) 853-3299 • www.villagebeads.com

From Traditional to Contemporary • Executive Boxed Meals • Breakfast • Brenda’s Home Cooking Orders must be placed 48 hours in advance. Delivery charges will apply.

DINE-IN ONLY, NO SHARING, NO CARRY OUT

$2 Pints

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THIS WEEK WEDNESDAY 01/23

New Bourbon Street Jazz Band

Now offering a full dinner menu. Now accepting reservations.

Wednesday, January 23rd

JASON TURNER

(Restaurant)

(Acoustic) 7-10, No Cover,

THURSDAY 01/24: Scott Albert Johnson (Restaurant)

Thursday, January 24th

As Cities Burn, Skies Revolt, Waypoint (Red Room) FRIDAY 01/25:

UMC Ambulance Chasers all rooms (private) SATURDAY 01/26: HannaLena (Restaurant)

DMI Showcase (Red Room) MONDAY 01/28: MS Blues Society’s Blue Mondays TUESDAY 01/29:

Pub Quiz w Erin and Friends

(Dining Room & Brew Pub)

Coming Soon 03/16 - Mal’s St. Paddy’s Day Parade with headliner Alabama Shakes http://www.ticketmaster.com/event/ 1B004984C1667E2E

Thank you for voting us finalist in:

Best Bar Best Live Music Venue Best Bar Where Everyone Knows Your Name Best Waitperson (Anne Friday) Best Gumbo

MONDAY - FRIDAY

Blue Plate Lunch

$8

with corn bread and tea or coffee

25

Fridays: Catfish Plates are $9.75

$4.00 Happy Hour Well Drinks! visit HalandMals.com for a full menu and concert schedule

601.948.0888

200 S. Commerce St. Downtown Jackson, Mississippi

BOOKER WALKER

(Jazz) 8-11, No Cover

Friday, January 25th

ZAC HARMON

(Blues) 9-1, $10 Cover

Saturday, January 26th

WICKED GENTLEMEN

(Rock & Roll) 9-1, $10 Cover

Thank You For Voting Us One of the

Best Live Music Venues One of the

Best Places For Cocktails One of the

Best Places to Dance One of the

Best Happy Hours One of the

Best Bars One of the

Best Places to Chill

HAPPY HOUR! TUESDAY ALL NIGHT LONG! Till 7 Wednesday -Friday

2-FOR-1 • DRAFT BEER • WELL DRINKS • APPETIZERS!

119 S. President Street 601.352.2322 www.Underground119.com

jacksonfreepress.com

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BRICE MEDIA

MUSIC | live

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Shop Bargain Boutique for Great Deals on Fall and Winter Clothing! Thank You for voting us one of the Best Thrift/ Consignment Stores!

As the cold weather begins to turn warm, we have to make room for spring clothing. Shop now for GREAT DEALS to complete your winter wardrobe and add new items for next year. In addition to our FABULOUS women’s clothing, we also have a large selection of men’s and children’s clothing as well as home items. Stop by and let us help you update your look throughout the year. And remember, we get NEW merchandise daily so check back often. 5070 Parkway Drive, Jackson | 601.991.0500 Mon-Fri 9:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. | Sat 9:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. FIND US ON FACEBOOK!

Brooks Evans Expressive. Diverse. Local. Brooks Evans, Artist 601.278.3878 Represented by Fondren Art Gallery 601.981.9222

Congratulations to all Best of Jackson Finalists

Thanks

for voting us One of the

Best Places to Buy Shoes The Shoe Bar @ Pieces 424 Mitchell Ave. 601.939.5203

January 23 - 29, 2013

THANK YOU

70

Voted one of the Best Consignment Stores Best of Jackson 2013 1260 East County Line Road Ridgeland, MS 39157 | 601.487.8207 platosclosetridgeland.com

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We’ll call one player’s number every hour to roll two fuzzy dice for yardage. The more yardage, the bigger the prize. Prizes include big screen TVs, recliners, cash and more! At Midnight on January 26, one player will hoist up two tickets to the BIG game in New Orleans! Earn entries now! 10X entries Wednesdays-Saturdays, 20X entries Sundays, Mondays and Tuesdays.

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Rack up yards to rack up big prizes!

71

Now Accepting Bookings

1000’s of batteries for everything in the world…

Voted One of the Best Club DJs Best of Jackson 2013

GREEK & MEDITERRANEAN CUISINE

10% OFF purchase with this ad

Expires 01/31/13

601.932.2250 4220 Lakeland Dr. Flowood, MS 39232

Top 40 • Hip Hop • Trap Dubstep • Electrohouse

601.503.6462

located at the intersection of Airport Rd. & Lakeland Dr. www.batteryworldonline.com

2741 Old Canton Rd. Jackson, MS 601.366.0161 w w w . P e t r a C a f e . n e t

NOW

ENROLLING! Become a

MEDICAL ASSISTANT

Over 36,000 sq ft of antiques, collectibles, jewelry, furniture, crafts, glassware, & architectural salvage.

(Day or Night - 10 Months)

OR

MASSAGE THERAPIST

1325 Flowood Dr. • www.fleamarketms.com Sat: 9am-5pm • Sun: 12pm-5pm • $1 Admission

(Day - 7 Months) (Night - 11 Months)

Mention This Ad For Free Admission!

FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE* *To those who qualify

New Year’s Resolution?

Accept Mobile Payments! Call NJ Davis Payment Solutions Today (601) 456-0541 Independent Sales

HEALING TOUCH CAREER COLLEGE 5360 I-55 North • JACKSON, MS

769-251-5181 CPSCR License #654 MSBMT #0107

Valentines…

Just because it’s named for a Saint doesn’t mean be one! (Toys, lingerie and DVD’s will certainly help with that!)

Romantic Adventures Jackson’s very nice, naughty store. 175 Hwy 80 East in Pearl * 601.932.2811 M-Th: 10-10p F/Sa 10-Mid Su: 1-10p www.shopromanticadventures.com

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