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The 301 Music Review

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A Complimentary Publication Featuring Middle and West Tennessee’s Best

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The 301 has upped the ante one more time. We are proud to introduce our new high-end printing process making our publication a one-of-a-kind in the West TN market. It is our philosophy to bring a high-end publication to this area. A publication that you will be proud to share with family and friends both near and far. We want to thank you for your continued support of our publication. No matter if you live in the Jackson area or one of the outlying cities that make up the West TN area, we are thankful for your thoughts and feedback. Join us on Facebook and drop us a line. We’d love to hear from you.

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awareness to the downtown Jackson

area, West and Middle Tennessee.

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With musical roots reaching back to Carl Perkins and beyond, Jackson has long had a musical heritage that rivals even some larger metropolitan areas. Most people view music in West Ten-nessee as traditional Rockabilly or even a little rhythm and blues. We can never forget where we came from, but we are excited about where we are going.

At the 301, we wanted to show a different kind of West TN mu-sic scene. There is re-birth in this area of artists who are bringing their own style and technique to the musical spotlight and helping give a new face to such a rich musical heritage. From Contem-porary Christian and number one chart toppers, to strange red suits with a soothing sound, Jackson is quickly becoming a diverse city of sound.

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Tell us about your musical background? How did you or your band get started? I’ve always been singing and playing the piano, I can’t think of a time when life didn’t revolve around that but when I was 13 I realized it was something you could actually “do for a living”. By then I’d started writing musical pieces, poems, stuff here and there and decided to start turn-ing it into songs. A few years later, after bugging my parents to death, I moved to Los Angeles to start making that dream of mine a reality.

What influences have left their impressions on your music? So many things have influenced me. I’ve always lis-tened to all different kinds of music from country to grime hip-hop because there is a message within all music. I think growing up in Jackson where music is constantly happening, bands are always playing and I would sit around with friends and play music----that made a big impact on me and taught me to connect with music by being both a part of it but also by watching.

Your Top 3 Favorite Artists? It’s hard to have to limit it down but I’d say: Joni Mitchell, Billy Joel & Eminem

Tell us about your current recording deals or music future? I’m currently signed to Universal, Island records in the UK, Republic Records in the USA and am in the process of writ-ing and recording my 2nd album.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years? It’s hard to say, my life changes a lot and always very quickly and unpredictable things happen. I’ll still be making albums, writing songs, maybe I’ll be living back in America by then?! I hope to always be tour-ing no matter what. There’s nothing better than live gigs.Where can we hear you play locally? I won’t be back playing locally until later this fall. The dates will be posted on either my website or my myspace/facebook

Are there any major obstacles you have had to over-come? One thing that took a long time to get used to is being away from the comforts of home and being away from my family. My family is a very tight knit unit, we’ve always been like that and I Skype, email, call etc as much as possible but even with all that nothing replaces the feeling of having them nearby. Also being a part of the entertainment industry you’re constantly finding things you have to hurdle while trying to stay true to who you are. I’ve learned a lot of lessons about honesty and trust these past few years that I’m happy to know now.

What is your opinion of the music scene in West Ten-nessee and how does it influence music in general? West Tennessee has had such an interesting and complex musi-cal history beginning with a huge blues scene in the 20’s and 30’s to Elvis, Carl Perkins & Al Green and even now with an under-ground rap scene that includes 3-6-Mafia, along with events like Memphis in May and the Shannon St Blues Fest among others. It’s always had so many exciting things happening within it! West Tennessee is a countryside full of people who love music but most importantly good, soulful music. I think this has helped inspire and uplift the people creating the music. It makes us want to keep playing, keep singing and keep sharing our songs and words. All the music that comes from WT is very honest and straight from the soul and I think that has left a lasting impres-sion in the world of music and I’m very proud to have grown up in Jackson in and amongst it all.

www.laurenpritchard.comLAUREN PRITCHARD

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Tell us about your musical background? How did you or your band get started? I moved here to go to college and met Randolph “GR” Robinson and we just started hanging out and jamming. Jesse Hornbeak and Brandon Clifton (Ruacamole) joined in and here we are.

What influences have left their impressions on your music? Our dads were artists and musicians: They passed on and passed it on.

Your Top 3 Favorite Artists? Far too many to narrow down

Tell us about your current recording deals or music future? We’re all indy as far as that goes. My debut album is out now.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years? On a stage or in a cage.

Where can we hear you play locally? The Downtown Tavern hosts original music every Wednesday; normally, it’s a local band and a touring band on the bill. I play every 3 or 4 weeks there. The DTT has opened a door to good original music in Jackson while most joints here are content hiring cover bands alone.

Are there any major obstacles you have had to overcome? I’m just thankful to be making music with friends that’s all, and I do believe that making music that is enlightening, forward-mobile, worthy to be believed in, and beneficial to a community and a society is indeed difficult to do as a fortunate caucasian male who has been given an easy way in an uneasy world.

What is your opinion of the music scene in West Tennessee and how does it influence music in general? I was very inspired by the rockabilly style as a teenager and it was strange moving here to this musical mecca and realizing how small the scene was for musicians trying to write. The Grove were encouraging on that front, but for the most part, we’ve locked arms with each other, depsite crowd size, and are trying to make the best music we know how and I think that comes through.

THE KERNALwww.farewellhello.com

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www.farewellhello.com

Jonathon SingletonAnd the grove

www.jonathansingletonandthegrove.com

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Tell us about your musical background? How did you or your band get started? I was surrounded by music from an early age. My mother had a band since I could remember; she was also a wonderful songwriter. My brother and I were engulfed in all kinds of music from an early age. In high school, not growing fast enough to continue playing sports, we both leaned towards music as a way to get the girls. My brother had a band that played mostly top 40 covers of the time. To be different, and for a lack of talent, we started a punk band. We played shows that my father promoted, and set up to give all the kids in town something to do. He was also teaching us how to set up a show, and make money playing music. Three friends and I continued to play all through high school. We played from Memphis to Nashville, and in coffee shops around Jackson and stayed pretty busy. After high school, my brother and I joined forces and started a band called the Smoking Jackets. We were a Blues-based R&B band that played originals and covers and were regionally successful.

What influences have left their impressions on your music? To name just a few that directly influenced me is hard, but I’ll try. I’m a huge Van Morrison fan, The Band, Bruce Springsteen, Tom Petty, Bob Dylan, Willie Nelson… just to name a few.

Your Top 3 Favorite Artists? Top 3 artists… I might say the same: Van, The Band, and Bruce.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years? In five years, I will definitely be writing songs. I will continue to play gigs with the Grove any way we can. Songwriting has allowed me to revert back to the Grove’s artistry; we don’t concern ourselves with commercial success. I am a band guy. I love playing with the Grove and I love those guys. We can play for 10 people or 10,000. It’s usually pretty close to the same show.

Where can we hear you play locally? In the past few months we have laid pretty low as far as gigs. We’ve played Nashville a few times. I’ve done songwriter shows a lot lately in Nashville. We will sneak off to Jackson and do a pick-up gig now and then.

Are there any major obstacles you have had to overcome? The obstacle I had to overcome is coming to the realization that I write commercial songs. That, for a long time, seemed like a bad thing.

I tried so hard for a long time to be the cool guy. I envied the cool rock bands around, and wanted to do that so bad. I chased it for a long time. I still try a little too hard sometimes. There’s a part of me that knows it’s the music business, and how blessed I am to be able to do what I do for a living. But there’s still a part that wants to rock!

What is your opinion of the music scene in West Tennessee and how does it influence music in general? West TN has always had great players. There’s something in the air there. The question has always been: is there a place for them to play?

At one point in our musical searching, we decided to stop traveling as much and stay in Jackson. At that time, there were at least 4 bars around town to play in. They are almost all gone now. When the Grove left town for Nashville, we couldn’t wait for another band to take our place at Barley’s as the house band. I expected some young kids to come in and take over. Some kids sitting in their garage just waiting for us to leave town. I know there are those kids in Jackson, but now there just aren’t that many places to play. The Downtown Tavern has done a great job keeping Jackson’s music scene alive, Randolph Robinson runs an original music night at the tavern. That’s exactly what needs to happen. I wish the colleges in town could get more involved-- away from the bar scene-- with a venue for kids to put on live shows in a safe, drug- and alcohol-free environment.

West TN has a rich musical heritage and players on every corner. Chuck McGill, Charley Baker, Wes Henley, Steve Patterson, Joshua Singleton, Paula Bridges and tons of others I left out still play around West TN. These were the people I looked up to growing up. They were famous to me. They, and everybody else we saw play back in the day around town, influenced my music greatly. There was always a healthy competition between bands that kind of kept things going.

ASH Bowerswww.ashbowers.com

Tell us about your musical background? How did you or your band get started? I got started playing music when I was about 10 years old. I started playing piano first. I was a HUGE Jerry Lee Lewis fan. Later on, when I was about 14 I picked up the guitar and started playing Country music. I also grew up playing in Church. All the guys in my band are from Jackson. I feel like we kinda grew up together in this world. Tosh Newman (Drums) and I have been playing music together for a long time, the last 6 or 7 years, And Brandon Kirk (guitar) for the last three and a half years. That’s always been the core. We’re all really good friends, come from the same place, & seem to be cut from the same cloth as well as have the same dream, vision, and goals...

What influences have left their impressions on your music? I always try to write about “real life” stuff, sometimes there’s a fictional story that becomes a song idea that’s too good to walk away from. But mainly I try to be real with it, because that’s the stuff that people relate to.

Your Top 3 Favorite Artists? This is a tough one! Jerry Lee Lewis, Kenny Chesney, Garth Brooks

Tell us about your current recording deals or music future? Currently signed to Broken Bow Records / Stoney Creek Records

Where do you see yourself in 5 years? Hopefully still play-ing music for a living, I count everyday I get to do this a blessing.

Are there any major obstacles you have had to over-come? If so, explain. I think just getting to the point of being able to make a living and get by in the music business is an obstacle itself. It doesn’t matter what side of the business you choose. Songwriter, performer, Singer/songwriter, drummer,

guitarist, manager, whatever it is, it’s a tough gig the first 5-6 years for most. I was playing bars all over the U.S. for 5 years, and wrote a few hundred songs before I got offered a record deal anywhere. That seems to be the average time frame usually.

What is your opinion of the music scene in West Tennessee and how does it influence music in general? I’ve always been a fan of the artist/bands here in West TN. We’ve had a lot of talent to be proud of from here. Several of us from this area have been able to take our careers to the next level. I’m always amazed when I stop and think about how many success-ful people in this crazy business call West TN their home.

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Tell us about your musical background? How did you or your band get started? After winning West TN Idol in 2009, a preliminary to the Texaco Country Showdown national competition, I got more serious about putting a band together. I had been a part of bands in the past more or less as a “hobby,” but was ready to make more of a full time move. The first member added was drummer Dustin Campbell, from Milan.. After going through several bass players, we were excited to add Shane Brooks, of Bethel Springs. After much turn over on lead guitar, we put a call in to Eric Wood of Lexington. We were in a bind and needed him to learn 30 songs in 3 days. When he pulled this off with ease, our puzzle was complete, and the rest is history!

What influences have left their impressions on your music? As a singer/songwriter, I am influenced by those who “tell their story” through their music.  I love the soulful influence of Sam Cooke... the bluesy heart wrenching tunes of Susan Tedeschi... the power and emotion of Faith Hill... the stage presence of Elvis... and the spit fire sassiness of Miranda Lambert! All of these artists stay true to who they are and I admire that so much.

Your Top 3 Favorite Artists? My favorites change with my mood. At the present moment, I am loving Adele, Pistol Annies, and am always in awe of Christina Aguilera.

Tell us about your current recording deals or music future?  We have had an exciting year, to say the least! We headlined a show at the New Daisy Theater on Beale St. in January, and in February, traveled to Searcy, AR to open for ACM Newcomer of the Year Award Winner, THE BAND PERRY! It was a wonderful experience, and we are thankful for the opportunities. 

I was also contacted by Grammy Award winning producer, Jim Gaines, who produced Stevie Ray Vaughn’s “In Step” album, to

work on background vocals for blues artist, Sandy Carroll. After meeting with Jim, we have decided to record with him on our upcoming CD!

Where do you see yourself in 5 years? Lord willing, I’ll be writing and playing music!  Truthfully, I am enjoying every step of the process, and am excited every time I take the stage!

In February, we were opening for The Band Perry in front of thousands... in March, we were at a honky-tonk in north Mississippi performing for 75 and a dog.;)

Where can we hear you play locally? We play every single weekend...Friday and Saturdays, and some Thursdays. Many times, we are here at home in West TN.. We play regularly at Redbones Grill, Lucky’s Bar and Grill, Sadie Lou’s, Jackson Elks Lodge, The Crown Winery (acoustic), among others.

Are there any major obstacles you have had to overcome? If so, explain. Probably the biggest obstacle any band will face, is that there are multiple personalities in the group! Families argue, then get over it. I feel like we have something special. I appreciate the guys in the band so much for their level of commitment.

Another obstacle is balancing family life with my music career. Without the support and encouragement from my husband, Bobby, I could not do what I love... be a mommy, and a rockstar!

What is your opinion of the music scene in West Tennessee and how does it influence music in general? West TN has some of the finest talent you will find anywhere. Major artists in many genres have emerged from little ole West TN! Over the last few years, we have seen careers take off for West TN natives

THE KimberLIE helton Bandwww.kimberlieheltonband.com

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JOSHUA SINGLETONwww.joshuasingleton.com

Tell us about your musical background? How did you or your band get started? Wow! Long story. I’ll start with college….I was attending Northeast Mississippi in 1997, on a scholarship with the “Campus Country” group, when I got a call from a friend. He needed a utility player in New Mexico that week. So I dropped out of College the next day and spent the next 3 months touring out West. When I got home, my brother, Jonathan, and I formed “The Smoking Jackets”. We played the Southeast U.S. until 2001 and released one independent album. In 2001, I moved to Panama City Beach and from there I hopped around…..France, St. John V.I., Sweden. I always found a group to play with in every country I moved to. In 2003, I moved to France and lived and played music until 2004. I then moved back to the U.S. and settled on Asheville, NC, but then a year later, moved to Nashville, TN. After a year in Nashville, I settled on Asheville, NC…….again. I’ve lived in Asheville since 2006. Since that time, I’ve been pretty focused on writing songs. In 2009, I released my first solo album. It was a self titled, independent project, and I learned a lot from it. In 2010, I signed with “Good Guys Records” and began recording a 5 song EP called “King of Hearts”. In November 2010, I did my first UK Tour. We did 14 dates in 20 days. It was a great experience, and I can’t wait to go back. In May 2011, “King of Hearts” was officially released, and we recently went back in the studio and recorded 3 more tracks that will be added to the EP on iTunes.

What influences have left their impressions on your music? My very first memory of music was when I was 4 years old. I got a little record player and an Elvis Record. That was an awakening, but also a disappointment, when my mom told me Elvis was dead.

When I discovered Freddie King, it knocked me out. It was Blues, but it was super funky. When I found out that those 2 elements

could sound so good together, I was hooked.Your Top 3 Favorite Artists? These change periodically…..Freddie King, Maxwell and Prince

Tell us about your current recording deals or music future? I’m currently writing and playing actively, and focusing on a U.K. push for the new EP. I plan on following up with a UK tour in 2012.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years? On a stage or in a cage Hopefully, on a stage, melting faces, anywhere in Europe.

Where can we hear you play locally? I play The Downtown Tavern every couple of months. That’s my spot in Jackson, I love it.

Are there any major obstacles you have had to overcome? This whole music game is one giant obstacle, but I guess the biggest thing for me has been, moving away from cover gigs. I play fewer gigs these days, but I play my music, on my terms. As a songwriter, my ultimate goal is to connect with people through my music, and when that happens, WOW!

What is your opinion of the music scene in West Tennessee and how does it influence music in general? I am so proud of my West Tennessee roots, I think it makes me who I am and what I do, as a musician. I saw some of the most memorable shows of my life in West TN. I think most musicians from this area would say the same.

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It is the end of 2011 and it has been an incredible year for downtown Jackson.None of the success we have had downtown could have happened without the people of Jackson. This is your downtown, JDDC is just the organization to help make it what you want it to become.

Downtown Jackson has eight new businesses; two of which, Jackson Filmhouse and A+ Insurance, have received the JDDC rent incentive plan. Also, the groundbreaking of CityWalk has just taken place and the dirt is moving! This development is a project by Healthy Community, LLC. in downtown Jackson just north of the West TN Farmer’s Market. It will include 140 apartments, 40 single-family homes, commercial and retail space, all anchored by LIFT (Living in a Fit Tennessee) which is a medically-based wellness center. There are currently 78 upper-story apartments in the core of downtown Jackson. John H. Allen and Company are adding 15 more plus an event venue with Elegant Events in the old Baptist church on Lafayette Street. Three new businesses will be announced within the next three months. Downtown is definitely growing!

Downtown is not just for business, it’s fun for the whole family as well. As of October 31, 2011, there have been over 1,200 events,

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classes, art shows, live performances, festivals, meetings and business after hours. These are just the events we know about and advertise on the calendar! Downtown Jackson is the perfect place to have your committee meetings, board meetings, birthday parties, to start a business or anything else you may need.

The biggest change in downtown Jackson this year was moving the Shannon Street Blues and Heritage Festival out of the West TN Farmer’s Market to Court Square. Everyone thought we were crazy, but it turned out to be the best festival to date. The music was incredible as always, and the backdrop of downtown Jackson made the night special. We are already looking at expanding the festival, not only in size, but also the time. That way everyone can come down on Saturday during the day and enjoy the live music. Stay tuned for more information.

JDDC also gets the opportunity to help with the beautification of downtown. We have completed the Court Alley (connecting College St. and Lafayette St.) renovation, which is a primary pedestrian alley for downtown employees. The renovation prevents the old buildings from taking in water and deteriorating more by adding a drainage system. The alley is a safe pathway for people to get from the public parking lot to downtown. We have added an art element as well by paying homage to the old Court Alley where City Hall now stands. Take a walk down the alley and see if you recognize any of the figures on the wall! JDDC is currently working on the old Fox property (the corner of Main St. and Liberty St.). Soon you will have a peaceful place to sit and eat, or my favorite thing, people watch! We will also be hosting concerts, movies, performances and socials in the new park in 2012.

We have been busy and we want to do more, but we need your help! If there are things you want to see happen in downtown Jackson, please give us a shout! We need your help to make our downtown the place to be! Visit www.downtownjackson.com or call 731.427.7573 for more information.

Katie Pace and Caroline Wells with Jackson Downtown Development

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This statement holds true in just about every aspect of life; however, when it comes to professions, some are okay with the status quo, and then there are those who are never satisfied. Many of the most successful people we meet are also the hardest working and the most passionate about what it is that they do on a daily basis—the first ones to arrive and the last ones to leave.

Driving south on Hwy 45, there is a clinic that was built from a dream, hard work and the absolute desire to put the patient and that patient’s needs first. Primary Care Specialists-South is a place like no other. Fundamental beliefs of learning about patients’ physical, mental and emotional state of being are only the beginning of what makes this place so unique.

The great Thomas Jefferson once said, “I am a great believer in luck. And, I find that the harder I work, the more I have it.”

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Founded by family nurse practitioner, John Michael Briley, Primary Care Specialists-South clinic was built with the concept of total patient health. Dr. Briley, who holds the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), focuses on a holistic approach - one that is patient centered and outcomes driven.

“Many of our patients come to us with various conditions. There is nothing mid-level about our care. It is important for us to understand as much as we can about the individual,” says Dr. Briley. “You would be so surprised how many of our patients’ conditions actually stem from a sociological or psychiatric condition that is affecting the body physically. Without taking the time to understand all that we can about that particular patient, we could never accurately

identify a problem set and attempt a collaborative care plan.

Dr. Briley attributes his diagnostic skills and life situations experienced during his tenure at Vanderbilt University as well as UT Memphis as the reasons which make his practice setting different.

“When you are groomed at a university that accepts nothing but the best, you tend to carry those same practices and habits over into your professional career,” adds Dr. Briley.

The environment at Primary Care Specialists-South is one that you won’t experience anywhere else. When you walk in the door, you will quickly learn

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why this practice is successful. Interacting with Dr. Briley and the rest of the staff, you may find yourself discussing life just as much as healthcare. Their dedication and absolute attention to detail will truly amaze you. As you get to know the Primary Care Specialist family, you may find yourself reminded of old-fashioned healthcare—the kind of relationship in which the clinician knows his patients on a first name basis. He knows their families and lifestyles. You can find comfort in knowing that your PCP will even make a house call if needed. You rarely find this type of genuine care in today’s “get-them-in and get-them-out” medical world.

“We are talking about people’s lives. People’s well-being and their health. We are not talking about fast food. Healthcare should not be treated like a drive-thru. You have to take the time to get to know every detail of each scenario to ensure accuracy,” adds Dr. Briley. Additionally, one must surround themselves with quality collaborating nurse practitioners and physicians to assist in a team approach.

The bottom line is this: When it comes to your health and the health of your family, you deserve service that is unsurpassed. It’s nice to know there is a place in Jackson built on a dream, backed by quality up-to-date care, which still takes the time to understand and treat the entire person to heal the entire person. Find out for yourself why Primary Care Specialists-South is a place like no other.

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“We are talking about people’s lives. People’s well-being and their health.

We are not talking about fast food. Medicine should not be treated like a drive-thru.”

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Sometimes something touches your heart so deeply that “doing nothing” isn’t an option anymore. It becomes more about finding a way to make a change than it is about finding excuses. Not because the fear goes away, but because the hunger to do Something is deeper than being afraid. My mind told me that the problem was too big. That we couldn’t make a difference in violence that had been going on for centuries. But my heart told me that the very reason young children are abducted and taught to kill is the very reason we want to save them and teach them about peace. Because when you are a child, your heart is delicate, fragile and beautiful. It is a garden that can either be trampled and burned or nurtured and loved. I realized with a problem so massive, you must start with the smallest child. To teach them they are worthy. To show them a different way. So they grow up to be soldiers of peace rather than soldiers of war.

eXile international was born out of a Darkness. In August 2008 I went on my first trip to DR Congo with an organization called ALARM, Inc. On that trip, former child soldiers asked me to be their mother. Women tried to give their children away to me. I heard stories of boys and girls who were abducted by rebels and forced to murder their parents. Stories of women and children as young as 2 who were raped as a weapon of war. Stories of women who had their children stolen out of their hands by the rebels. I met children so traumatized that they rarely spoke and could hardly show emotion. We visited 5 displacement camps in one day with women just crying to go home. I realized that these people were not only living in true exile, but in emotional exile, as well. They lacked security and stability of the heart. It was a level of hopelessness I had never seen before. I had been to Africa many times, but Congo was like no other country I had been to. I think for some people, its darkness envelops you in a way that bonds you to it. You leave knowing you have to play some part in bringing light to her people.

That’s how I left Congo. But I didn’t know what part I could play or how I would play it, until God seated me next to a three-year-old autistic Kenyan boy on the plane ride home. After two weeks of trying to wrap my brain around everything I witnessed, the people I met, and the stories I heard, this little boy profoundly summed it up for me. In a few seconds, with a few words, he made sense out of my restless thoughts. As he and I stared out the window at the magnificent clouds, he began to repeat something my heart needed to hear: “It is bigger than we are...It is bigger than we are...It is...It is...bigger than we are.”His words settled my heart and my mind. I knew God was speaking to me through this little autistic boy. Speaking to me in a profound and beautiful way that would change

This is the story of a small-town Southern girl, a graduate of Freed-Hardeman University, who vowed to make a difference. Someone like you, from a town like ours, who saw what the world was blind to, and embraced those on whom society turned its back. This is her story. .. in her own words.

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how I see the world around me, and my place within it. I thought to myself, “Thank You, God. It IS so much bigger than we are, isn’t it? The heavens. And so is Life. So much bigger than we are...but the beauty is that so are You. And You, God, are in the middle of it all.” I finally understood that God is in us and with us, through our tears, through our violation, through our orphaned journey, through our loss. He is in the midst of it all. And the hope of Heaven is bigger than the waterfalls of pain. I realized that I needed to stop wrestling with the question “Where are you in all of this, God?” Because the answer lies in the mirror. The question isn’t “where is He.” He is beside of them when they are afraid in the bush. He is holding their hands when they are abducted and running from rebels. He is right there with them on the battlefield and between the bullets. The question is not “Where are you, God?” The question is, “Where are WE?” It is through becoming His hands and feet that He becomes alive in us, and we begin to live out the gospel in loving others.

When we begin living for something bigger than ourselves, we find ourselves. We find our purpose - our song. The trauma work we do with the children in Uganda and Congo

through art and expressive therapy brings us to life as much as it does them. Much of the program we use was actually created out of what the Lord taught me through my own journey through trauma, depression, and anxiety. That is our dream for the children. That they are not only survivors of war, but that they allow God to use their deepest pains to bring others to life by being the future leaders in their communities one day. To help them to know Jesus – The Prince of Peace.

As an organization, our team has been honored to work with over 800 children. Both through trips we take to offer the art/expressive therapy program, and in the support of local leaders on the ground as they do weekly group work with the children. When Peggy Cox and I founded the organization, we thought it would be a small umbrella of trauma care. God has opened more doors than we have the resources to walk through, and our team continues to be taught that it is by walking step by step that we touch lives. Not in trying to fix the big picture. It’s about touching one heart at a time.

My heart cry is for the children of Central

and Eastern Africa and for anyone who others have given up on. I needed someone to believe in me at one point in my life. And because God never gave up on me – I will never give up on these children. I am not special. I am not amazing. I am just a small woman who is doing what I needed someone else to do in my darkest hour – to believe in me. Just to believe in me. Although I fail daily, my wish is to be His heart here on earth. I want to let the Lord use my passions to make a difference, to embed peace in once war-torn countries, and to help these kids know that God is beside them in their pain. What is your heart cry? What passions has God placed deep inside your soul? What gifts has He given you?

I have learned that we often wait and stand back to find our purpose. We wait for our passion to come to life in order to begin living, when He has already given it to us. Our passion is found in living out our purpose, and our purpose is found in living out the gospel. Being the hands and feet of Jesus and loving His children who He places in front of us. One at a time. That’s how you change the world.

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On August 24th Bethany was asked to speak on behalf of child soldiers worldwide at the International Criminal Court in The Hague. The symposium titled, “Understanding Child Soldiers and the Need for Education,” was held in conjunction with the trial of Thomas Lubanga, a former rebel leader in the Democratic Republic of Congo, who is charged with conscripting, enlisting, and using child soldiers.

What you are about to read is an excerpt from the speech that Bethany Haley wrote and delivered to a group of international leaders and changemakers at the ICC symposium. Please be aware there are portions that are intense and difficult to read. The most graphic portions have not been reproduced here, but we encourage you to read the letter in full at:www.theheartofexile.blogspot.com.

On the last visit to Uganda, we had asked the children we work with who had been orphaned by the LRA to write letters to President Obama. They were sitting on the ground around me and I said to them, “I have told your stories to Senators and Congressmen. I have shown your drawings to Representatives. But now it is time for you to write to President Obama to tell him your story, in your own words.” Their eyes became so large and some of them stayed awake until 2:30 in the morning writing the letters so perfectly, then asking him at the end of the letters to “now please capture Joseph Kony.”

I had the distinct pleasure of hand delivering those letters to Jon Carson, who assured me they would get into the hands of President Obama. We copied them before we delivered them to the White House. And as I was thinking of my time with you, my thought was this. I do not want you to see me. I do not want to stand before you with words and tears.

I have not been in war. I have not been forced to tear my brother apart with my teeth. I am not a mother who had to make the decision of whether I would be forced to chop my son into pieces or know that he would be forced to do the same to me. I am not a six year-old girl who has been raped so severely that she bares the scars of surgery to put her body back together.

Do not see me.

I ask you to see them. I ask you to take a moment and picture this room filled with well over 70,000 children whose spirits, bodies, and minds have been ripped apart because of a type of torture that, as a psychologist, I cannot begin to understand.

I ask you to see them. Some of them died in the bush. Some of them were killed because they fell beneath the load they were forced to carry… Some of them are still alive. Some of them are in the bush right now. As we sit here in our black and white dresses and our suits, and as the world goes on, and as the sun sets, and as the moon will come up tonight. They are there. They are here. Do you, ladies and gentlemen – see them? Can you hear them? We stood back and watched the genocide unfold in Rwanda. Day after day after 100 days. And when it was over, the world shook its head in pity and false penitence and said “Never Again.”

And here we are searching for Joseph Kony, 25 years and over 60,000 precious children later. Again. Here we sit with 300,000 child soldiers in the world.

Ladies and Gentlemen, the bottom line is this: Each day little is done becomes a day that another mother is forced to make the decision of whether she will kill her 7 year old son or if he will kill her. It is another day of a young girl whose brother is forced to slice off pieces of her face until she bleeds to death. I could fill the room with stories, but if nothing is done, there will be just as many or more stories this time next year.

Each day of doing nothing is another day of the world utterly and undeniably failing these children. These children that could easily be ours.

Will I wash the blood from my hands because it is messy and dirty and it may stain my very soul in order to go to bed and sleep better tonight – or will I? Will you? See them. Hear them. Honor them. As if they were our very own? Because they are. They

are not someone else’s child. They are my children and your children and we, ladies and gentlemen, are failing them.

I ask you to see them. They deserve to be seen.

At exile international, we use art and expressive therapy as a means to help the children heal from their wounds. You will see three of the children’s drawings that I brought with me today. Two of them are drawn by children abducted by the LRA, and one is from a former child solidier in Congo. These are their stories in color, and I would love to ask you to honor them by looking at them in detail.

One of them is drawn by a boy from Goma, Congo. He is one of 24 boys who we are now working with through rehabilitation. They are amazing. When I was with them, I asked them to tell me their stories. They came back the next day, and the leader of the group said “Bethany, you have asked all of us to tell you our stories, but we have decided to show you our stories.” They proceeded to go outside the tent and came back with AK47s made out of corn shuck and sugarcane. They had carved walkie-talkies out of wood. They had bandaged their heads and had paper rolled up like cigarettes. And they re-enacted their worst nightmares coming to life. In the drama they acted out being at school and being abducted by rebel commanders. Being beaten until almost dead. Being taken to camp, being taught how to use a gun, and being told they “were men now”. They re-enacted being forced to kill. At one point I felt as if I were in the bush in the middle of an ambush as they started acting out killing each other with guns and machetes that were carved out in tiny detail. They then re-enacted being rescued by MONUC, taken back to safety, and being taught how to live again. I cried. I cried for them. After the drama we asked them to sit down and one by one, we washed their feet. Then we gave them new shoes to wear.

I will never forget one boy. His name is Innocent. He is strong and brave and bold. He told the story of the rebel commanders getting on the backs of the boys to cross a river because it was too deep for them to cross by themselves. The commanders rode on the back of the young boys until they got close enough to the other side so they could swim to land. But in the process. One by one. The boys drowned under the weight of the

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commanders. Innocent kept saying

“And I. And I give glory to God for saving me. Even me. Even me. I did not drown with the others.”

The most beautiful part of this story is that these boys have a dream of returning to their villages to create peace clubs and speak about peace and reconciliation. We are trying to make those dreams come true. They started that process this month. They are coming alive again. But there are thousands more of them in the bush and thousands more that will replace them if we do not do something.

As we end, I would ask that we are silent for a few seconds. I ask that you would picture these children filling up this room, laying down their weapons and just whispering.

“Enough. It is Enough now. We are tired. Do you hear us? Do you see us? We are tired.”…If they can experience such torture, can we not be brave enough to do whatever is in our power to stop it and to use whatever influence we have to give them the opportunity to live again?

Can we? Will we?

...............................

visit

®

For more information, visit TnTrailsAndByways.com.

Get ready to explore Southwest Tennessee like you’ve

never seen it before on the Walking Tall Trail, a part of

the Discover Tennessee Trails & Byways. On the surface,

the Walking Tall Trail is a collection of charming small

towns, mom-and-pop eateries, courthouse squares and

barbecue gems. Dig a little deeper, and you’ll uncover

the fascinating stories, people, and places that have

shaped American history and culture.

The Buford Pusser Home & MuseumShiloh National Military Park

Order your FREETENNESSEE VACATION GUIDE at tnvacation.com, or call 1-800-GO2-TENN.

For more information about Southwest Tennessee,

tast.tn.org.

Casey Jones Railroad Museum

• For as little as $7 a month, you can join Team SING, our team of monthly givers, who play a critical role in sustaining our work with war-affected children.

• For $35 a month, you can sponsor a former child soldier in Congo or Uganda.

• One-time donations, which we allocate to our current greatest need, are accepted in any amount.

• We are always looking for new development partners. Our development partners are churches and businesses who commit to providing monthly financial support, as well as prayer for our ministry.

• You can schedule a speaking event with a representative from eXile international for your school, church, or another type of group.

• Host a heART for Africa party or a fundraiser benefiting eXile international! Hosts for heART for Africa Parties open up their homes to friends, family, neighbors, or coworkers in order to raise awareness about and funds for eXile’s work.

• Be on the look out for future trips to East and Central Africa, beginning next Spring!

• Stay tuned for our fundraising event, The Snow Ball, happening this winter!

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www.exileinternational.org

Each day of doing nothing is another day of the world utterly and undeniably failing these children.

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My motivation emanates from my profession that is constantly changing, allow-ing me to be creative and challenge myself to stay current. Being amongst many talented photographers in West TN, I feel lucky to be a part of this competitive market. Being a small business owner can be very challenging. I have a pas-sion for Jackson and my community and I love being involved, however owning a small business is very demanding. And I’m here to tell you, there is only one Darren. One of the greatest things about owning a business in West TN is that the people really appreciate and support small businesses. Just make sure that

you’re ready! It took me a while to finally realize that I needed to start my own business, and when I was ready I did it! My main focus is portraits, specializing in head shots and model portfolios with a contemporary twist. My inspiration has always come from high fashion magazines and I feel that gives me a bit of an edge here. I see my business growing and possibly moving one day, but still keeping West Tennessee as my home base. You can reach me on Facebook, of course. Also visit my website www.darrenlykesphotography.com

Darren is a rising star in the photography industry. Look for several of his works in Miss Tennessee and in top publications. Based in Jackson, TN, Darren is sure to continue to impress.

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Tricia has been in the cosmetics industry for over 12 years. Her work can be found gracing the covers of several magazines, brides to be, and even on most cover models for the 301!

What motivates me the most being a young professional in west TN is the “small town” feel. It’s very encouraging to see my clients out and about and hear about how much they are loving their hair or even to just get to visit with them and meet their families. My job is very personal to me. I value my clients and there needs.

Obstacles that I face as a small town entrepreneur would be the “waiting game”. You have to have a lot of patience in own-ing your own business and you have to keep your head up. Sometimes that even means “keeping it above water”. With the determination it takes to do all of that and continue to produce great results as your business grows makes the waiting game well worth it! Your success will outweigh the memories of impatience.

The greatest thing to me about operating my business in West TN is getting to work in downtown Jackson. My view from Euphoria’s 2nd floor is not only beautiful, but inspiring. Get-ting to look down onto historic Lafayette St., and seeing clients coming and going and the hustle and bustle of a small town is creatively inspiring. Not only is Euphoria the most aesthetically beautiful salon in Jackson, but the other stylists are top notch! We all continue to inspire one another through our work.

It takes guts, desire and passion. These characteristics explain why some entrepreneurs make it and why some fail.

My business is blanketed in to 2 parts. I work behind the chair at Euphoria Salon 3 days a week. Cutting, Color and makeup ap-plication. I love every minute of it! The other part affords me the opportunity to travel the country as a freelance hair and makeup artist. Whether I’m at a high end fashion shoot, a destination wedding or even a client’s home getting them ready for a memo-rable event. I’m getting to do what I love! Hair and Makeup! This opportunity to travel so many places has become an awesome asset to my work in the salon. I’m able to bring back with me a refreshed and inspired spirit for my clients.

Honestly, the best source of finding new customers in Jackson, TN is my clients. They are my walking billboards! Time and time again the new clients that walk in the door say things like... “I just love what you did with Haley’s bangs.” As long as my clients feel like they can communicate with me to achieve the look they are going for and feel refreshed when they step out of the salon I feel successful. No matter the revenue at the end of the day!

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Leigh Nants was founded on a promise that two inseparable sisters made to one another when only little girls. Kristi Leigh and Lori Nants vowed to start a business when they grew up. Its name would be Leigh Nants.

From the childhood days of these small town girls, business was booming. With their woven friendship bracelets, beaded watches and hand painted tins, they descended upon unsuspecting neighbors, rang every doorbell and offered their wares with irresistible childlike charm.

As they grew, so did their creativity and abilities. Lori, having attained a design degree and Kristi, a business degree, the sisters finally had what was needed to birth their childhood dream. In 2006, Leigh Nants Jewelry was started with home shows that evolved into an online business, featuring Lori’s unique handmade jewelry designs. Their story continues when the dream of opening a storefront became a reality in March 2010 with the first location of Leigh Nants in their hometown, Milan, TN.

The girls bill Leigh Nants as a one-of-a-kind boutique Where Art Meets Style. The boutique strives to offer customers the luxury of handmade originals and the latest boutique clothing.Kristi and Lori, along with the girls of Leigh Nants, invite you to celebrate and join them in their second location and latest endeavor in Paris, TN, where you can get to know them even better. You will continue to fall in love with their edgy designs plus you will feel you have made two new friends.

Leigh Nants was founded from a promise that two inseparable sisters made to one another when only little girls. Kristi Leigh and Lori Nants vowed to start a business when they grew up. Its name would be Leigh Nants. Based in Milan, TN, Leigh Nants is one unique boutique.

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“Working for the Foundation I have the privilege of seeing people’s lives changed. It is rewarding and motivating to see this in action and spurs us to continue to find ways to serve others.

Fundraising is challenging even in the best of times. However, one of the Foundation’s largest gifts was received during the recession proving that even in challenging times people are generous. An obstacle we face is trying to educate the public on what the Foundation does and how they can be a part of those efforts.

The people of West Tennessee and the Mid-South make this area such an ideal area in which to work. There is a sense of

community in our Southern culture that you do not see in all parts of the United States. Because of this, we see people step up to help others on a continual basis.

The West Tennessee Healthcare Foundation serves as a community foundation for West Tennessee. We have more than 300 funds that do everything from provide hippotherapy for special needs children to making sure patients who leave the hospital have the medicines they need if they cannot afford to purchase them. All of our funds work to improve the quality of life for West Tennesseans.

I see the Foundation continuing to grow in scope and in assets-extending our reach in serving and ensuring that these good works will continue serving generations of West Tennesseans.

We are located at 74 Directors Row. Our web address is www.wthfoundation.org and our facebook page is www.facebook.com/wthfoundation.”

Quickly becoming the lead man on most of the non-profit work here in West TN, Chris Ramey prides himself on helping those less fortunate. It takes a special kind of heart to reach out on a daily basis to those that are less fortunate or are in need. Through the West Tennessee Healthcare Foundation Chris is making a difference.

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I love what I do, and I enjoy making my customer’s happy. Being a sole proprietor, I am faced with all aspects of operating my business which can be very hectic at times: designing, manufacturing, accounting, packaging, display, marketing, etc… I have made great friendships with individual customers, boutique owners, and market vendors throughout the Southeast. It is important to have loyal friendships in operating a business.

My love for creating jewelry all started in 2002 during my college years at the University of Tennessee at Knoxville. I have always enjoyed creating my own style and technique of art, which facilitated my passion for designing and making jewelry. My job after college was selling clothes to boutiques throughout the southeast United States. Clients noticed my jewelry, and I began selling my collection to many boutiques. Each year I make financial goals and find ways to meet or exceed it by expanding my territory. My plan is pretty simple- I hope to create jewelry that is elegant, edgy, and fun to wear. If you have these three components in your accessories, your wardrobe will be complete. The motto I like to follow in life is, “Do what you love and love what you do”, because life is too short not to enjoy everyday on this earth.

My advice for others is; first, you have to be ready to work very hard, must be disciplined, pin-point your market, practice efficiency, stay organized, and keep your overhead low.

You can find me on the web at: www.ellenhays.com, become a fan on Facebook, and locally at Mam’selle and Signature’s Boutique. In November, I will have a booth at the USJ Holiday Mart where I have been participating for many years.

“Do what you love and love what you do!” That’s Ellen’s Motto. Starting out small, Ellen Hays has grown her jewelry business to expand into some of the South’s finest shops. Next time you see a classy piece in a boutique, check and see if it is made by Ellen. Ellen Hays Jewelry is based in Jackson, TN.

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Flowers brighten up the day, but it takes more to be a true floral artist. Starting Kendrick Floral design, Jonathan has well established himself as the one to make that special occasion that much more perfect. Kendrick Floral Design is based in Jackson, TN.

I love floral design. It’s what I do. Having a diverse client base and working with people also ensures that things stay fabulous.

I’m very lucky in that there haven’t been many obstacles as far as my business is concerned. I’ve learned that it’s great being a part of the dynamic economy of West Tennessee. I started in the floral design business at an early age which gave me an established clientele available to me when I decided to open my own shop. Because of my loyal customers who appreciate great floral design I was able to build a stable business surprisingly fast.

It can be a challenge using exotic flowers and bringing the most cutting edge designs to the area but also keeping in mind the needs and tastes of the customer. Working hard to maintain this as my primary business commitment is what provides me my loyal customer base who are also more than glad to refer me to others.

Another great thing about having my business here is that we have all of the seasons! It allows me to keep my designs fresh and interesting month after month and challenges me to diversify year after year.

One of the unexpectedly pleasant things about running a flower shop are the close relationships I’ve developed over the years. Getting close to people fast is a byproduct of being an integral part of weddings, business events, sicknesses, and funerals.

My advice to others who want to start their own busines is start small, minimize debt, know your craft and love your craft because you will have to work hard. Of course it always helps to make it pretty.

As far as the future of my floral business, luxury goods will always be in demand but where and how people purchase them will change. Small storefront business could be in trouble. I’m working toward implementing new communications and technologies like Facebook, iphone applications, Paypal, et cetera. This technological diversity will help me maintain the customer relationships that are so essential to my business.

People can always contact me by phone, (731-427-8989) email, (kendrickfloral@yahoo.com) business address (380 North Highland Ave. Jackson, TN 38301) and are more than welcome to “like” Kendrick Floral Company on Facebook. (www.facebook.com/kendrickfloral)

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Welcome to Jackson, a great

Southern city! We hope our

guide to favorite local

eateries will help direct

you to some unique flavor

destinations. You can tell a

lot of about a city by its

local restaurants. One of

my favorite parts of

travelling is discovering

the local diners and shops

that you can’t find just

anywhere. These taste

experiences help create

lasting memories and a reason

to return to the area in the

future. Our culture is written

all over our plates, come and see

for yourself!36

BreakfastOld Country Store

When it comes to good country cooking, breakfast is a favorite tradition in the South. What better way to start the day than with some fluffy scrambled eggs, crisp bacon, juicy sausage and hot biscuits with gravy? Maybe adding some sweet pancakes or country ham… You can get a full spread of country breakfast favorites at the Old Country Store in Casey Jones Village. They offer an expansive buffet as well as a full menu of made-to-order items. This place is truly a Jackson original and a local favorite. Not only do they offer down-home cooking at breakfast, but come back at lunch or dinner to see more Southern favorites like cracklin’ cornbread, black-eyed peas, fried catfish and more. The Casey Jones Village also has some of the best tourist attractions in Jackson including a train museum, retail shops, ice cream parlor and historic buildings all found in a quaint village-style setup.

Do-Dah’s Donuts If you like a rush of

sugar first thing in the morning, Do-Dah’s has exactly what you need. It’s a small family-owned donut shop that has been a favorite in Jackson for several years now. In the very early morning hours, the first family shift arrives and starts baking fresh donuts for the day. By the time most of us wake up, that shift has completed a day’s work preparing the perfect breakfast treat. With classic favorites like glazed, chocolate, strawberry and caramel iced donuts, Do-Dah’s has perfected their trade. They also offer long-john’s, fritters, donut holes, twist-ties, and cake donuts in flavors like red velvet, cinnamon and blueberry. Soo good! Under the new management of Kara Jones (daughter-in-law to owner Mary Jones), Do-Dah’s is

working on offering even more to customers. By the end of this month, they will have gourmet coffees available, and in the near future, hope to incorporate cookies, cakes, pastries and other baked goods to their sugary sweet lineup!

Old Medina MarketLocated right off of

Interstate-40 at Exit 83, the Old Medina Market is a great stop for on-the go types. Its clean and convenient atmosphere and friendly staff make it a favorite for locals and travelers alike. Their breakfast menu includes local favorites like fried bologna, country ham, eggs and biscuits and even fresh donuts. You can get your order to go, or dine in and take advantage of the wireless internet café. Old Medina Market is all about perfecting the balance between convenience and quality. You can get a hot, fresh meal, fill up the tank, and stock up on traveling snacks and necessities all in one stop. The Old Medina Market also offers a lunch menu, ready-to-go deli sandwiches and salads, fresh baked pies and more. So if you’re looking for great food but are crunched for time, this place is just for you!

Donuts & More If you want something

more exciting than traditional breakfast offerings, try the selections at Donuts & More on Old Hickory Blvd. The folks at this donut shop have taken years of baking experience combined with imaginative thinking to craft a breakfast menu with wild flavors and unique donut and pastry creations. When you walk in the door, you may be overwhelmed by the wall of donuts stretched in front of you! So many choices…Try their Kool-Aid donut holes for some wake-me-up flavor, or the orange juice cake, peanut butter or toffee donuts for a unique twist on a classic breakfast item. Donuts & More also offers a variety of breakfast

sandwiches, bagels, coffee and even slushies. Oh yeah, and they have Kid’s Day every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. with great specials for the little ones!

LunchUnited Steaks of America: Best Sandwiches on Earth!

When owner Armando Coelho moved to the South, he brought a little Philly culture with him. The cheese steaks at United have an authentic taste and quality that you just can’t get anywhere else around. Not to mention the atmosphere is straight out of PA—retro décor, the owner making witty comments from behind the grill, and American pride plastered from floor to ceiling. I asked for their specialty and received the original Philly cheese steak topped with grilled onions, jalapenos and cheese whiz with a side of crispy, homemade potato chips. Heavenly! Most recently, United Steaks has expanded the dining area into the back of the building. This area has been transformed into a cool sports bar to offer more seating and meet the needs of the late night crowd. Now, you can watch all the games, have a few drinks with friends, and get great food on into the late hours—on Friday and Saturday nights you can stay until 4 a.m. United also offers a full menu of specialty sandwiches, burgers, salads and more.

Latham’s Meat Company

As you drive down the northernmost stretch of N. Highland Avenue, you can smell the savory aroma of smoked meats roasting at Latham’s Meat Company. Known for their pulled pork BBQ, Latham’s offers a fresh daily menu of meats and vegetables for plate lunches. With everything from BBQ pork, ribs, brisket and smoked chicken to fresh sides like okra, squash, cabbage and

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their famous green beans, Latham’s captures the taste of great Southern cooking. My favorite—the pulled pork sandwich topped with coleslaw and hot sauce! They also have a deli for cold sandwiches and a butcher shop for fresh cuts of meat to take home.

The Painted Lady

In the Downtown area of Jackson, you will find a beautiful, old, yellow house called the Painted Lady resting on E. Lafayette Street. Inside, a quaint, quiet atmosphere offers a pleasant surprise. Elegant Events by Mike and Troy took residence in the Painted Lady and opened up a spectacular lunch spot. With daily soup, quiche and casserole specials, you can be sure that you will get something fresh, different and beautifully prepared. On my visit, I tried the summer squash quiche with a side of their signature soup—champagne, brie and caramelized onion. The quiche was chock full of tender, golden squash and the delicate ingredients of the soup blended perfectly for a rich, velvety finish. Browsing their menu and previous daily specials, I was impressed with the use of prime and unique ingredient combinations for flavors that you won’t find anywhere else.

The Carriage House Antique Market Café

If you like to multitask at lunch, this is the

perfect place for you. At the Carriage House Antique Market, not only do you get to browse beautiful antiques, house wares and home décor, but tucked away in the back of the store is a great lunch café. With traditional light and fresh lunch fare, you will find a classic tearoom dining experience here. As one of my favorite lunch getaways since I began working in Jackson three years ago, my go-to order is the Half Café Combo with the best chicken salad sandwich and strawberry salad I have found anywhere! Carriage House also offers daily specials that include everything from tender crepes and brunch selections to delicious homemade desserts. Another great option—check out the to-go items such as snacks, dips, appetizers and single serving portions of some of their special recipe dishes.

Tulum“Tulum” is actually the

location of the ancient ruins of a Mayan walled city on the Caribbean coast in Mexico. But if you say Tulum in Jackson, people know you’re talking about something different. Here, Tulum is the place where you find fresh south-of-the-border flavors in a quick and convenient atmosphere. Tulum, a “fresh Mexican grill,” offers classic favorites like enchiladas, burritos, chimichangas and more all made with fresh quality ingredients. Each entrée includes access to the salsa bar where you will find a variety of unique fresh salsa flavors. I love the fresh flavors at this place, and especially love the fish tacos!

DinnerBaudo’s

In a quiet, romantic atmosphere, you can enjoy genuine, delicious Italian dishes at Baudo’s. The Baudo family opened this restaurant over 40 years ago in Jackson, and its still going strong today, offering great tasting meals,

exquisite desserts and exceptional service. I have visited Baudo’s on numerous occasions, and have never been disappointed. The food is always amazing. Some of my favorites are the Wild Mushroom Ravioli, the Penne ala Vodka, the Veal Piccata, Filet Mignon and the Lobster & Shrimp Fra Diavlo. I always look forward to the house salad, because the homemade house vinaigrette is delicious! If you visit on the weekends, you can go next door after dinner to see live stand-up comedy at Harvey’s South Street Comedy Club.

Coyote Blues

For a modern take on traditional Mexican dishes, try Coyote Blues for your next dinner stop. With a trendy, cool atmosphere and fantastic flavor combinations, Coyote Blues offers a unique experience that has quickly made it a local favorite in Jackson. I love the fresh-made ceviche—avocado, crab, shrimp, cilantro…it’s amazing. Another staple when I visit is the smoked duck quesadilla, which is served with a beautiful blueberry and raspberry sauce. The flavors at this place will blow you away, and the menu is unlike any other restaurant around. Coyote Blues also offers great food and drink specials throughout the week, during lunch and dinner hours. Its versatility makes it great for a date night or a night out with friends.

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SakuraIf you are in the mood

for exotic flavor, Sakura is the perfect destination. Best known for their amazing sushi rolls, Sakura also offers great noodle and rice dishes, teriyaki and other Asian favorites. Back to the sushi… only the best quality of ingredients and beautiful preparation. Each roll looks like artwork on your plate, but the taste is even more impressive. I’ve heard people from all over the country who visit here say it’s the best sushi they have ever had, and I totally agree! If you prefer all-cooked rolls, try the signature Alfredo, the Mexico or the deep-fried Joyce rolls. If you want to spice it up with a few fresh, raw ingredients, the Key West, Phoenix and Quasimoto rolls are some of my favorites. And for the sushi purists, try the fresh salmon sashimi. You will not be disappointed in this place.

Flatiron Grille

The Flatiron Grille has become a favorite destination for Jackson socialites. Whether to entertain for a business dinner or impress for a date night, Flatiron’s sophisticated menu will meet your needs. From Chicago bone-in ribeye and Down Under lamb chops to Napa Chicken and Chilean Sea Bass, Flatiron has a variety of classic dishes with an upscale twist. Don’t forget to check out their wine list and martini specials.

Sparky’s Pizzeria & Grill

For a fun, kid-friendly place to eat, try Sparky’s Pizzeria & Grill. Sparky’s has a laid-back atmosphere with family-friendly food options to please even the pickiest eaters. A full all-you-can-eat pizza buffet and salad bar lets you relax and fill up while the kids play in Sparky’s

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arcade area. An extensive menu also offers traditional sports fan food like hot wings, cheese fries, ribs, burgers and more. Sparky’s is located near some great entertainment venues as well, like Pringles Park where you can watch the Jackson Generals play ball, and the new Cinema Planet theatre.

Picasso PizzeriaFor the connoisseur of

art and wine, Picasso will be right up your alley. With its mellow, worldly atmosphere, Picasso is a great place to wind down. You can enjoy great food, great wine and great art all in one place. Picasso is known for their “Master Pizzas” with specialties like Rockin’ Lobster, Brandon’s Butcher Block and my favorite, Scott’s Caribbean Jerk. The combinations of gourmet ingredients are truly unique. And don’t forget to enjoy the art while you eat. If you see something like, you can take it home. That’s right, all pieces are priced to sell.

Old Town Spaghetti Store

For a casual atmosphere with great country-Italian food, check out the Old Town Spaghetti Store. They have a charming atmosphere with a full country-Italian menu featuring favorites like Lasagna, Baked Spaghetti and Chicken Parmesan. They also have a create-your-own pasta menu so that you’re sure to get all of your

favorite flavors—you pick the type of pasta, your favorite sauce and all the meat and veggie add-ons you want. Even with all these yummy choices, one item stands out as my favorite… the Fried Zucchini! This appetizer is a must!

SpecialtyGreen Frog Coffee Company

Green Frog Coffee Company has quickly become Downtown’s go-to destination for all varieties of coffee drinks and teas. No matter what kind of treat you are in the mood for, Green Frog is guaranteed to have just the pick-me-up you need. Serving freshly brewed coffees in a variety of rich blends and flavors, you can get it hot, cold, frozen, flavored or plain with tastes that compete with any big name coffee shop. Green Frog also offers hot teas, fruit tea, hot chocolate, fresh smoothies, and other seasonal favorites. If you need a little more substance, try one of their locally made desserts, homemade ice cream, or fresh sandwiches. I love the iced vanilla latte in the summer, and the Dirty Snowman for the cooler months!

HaliHannigan’s Cupcakery

When you walk in the door at HaliHannigan’s, you are immediately surrounded by the rich aromas of vanilla and cake

batter… Yum. HaliHannigan’s offers a huge variety of freshly made cupcakes in delectable flavors you can

only imagine. Just think of any dessert, candy or sweet-flavored concoction and HaliHannigan’s probably has a cupcake flavored like it. If you want a classic cupcake, go with traditional flavors like Chocolate Explosion, Southern Caramel Pecan, Red Velvet, Strawberry Sunset, Carrot Cake and Wedding Cake. If you’re feeling adventurous, look for some of the unique creations like The Presley, Strawberry Limeade, Cadbury Egg, Snickers, Key Lime Pie, Margarita or Bananas Foster—just to name a few.

YoLo If you are craving a

cold, creamy treat, try something different from regular old ice cream. YoLo offers homemade Italian gelato in an array of delicious flavors like Nutella, Grasshopper and White Chocolate Raspberry. Gelato is made with a different process than American ice creams and generally has less butterfat, denser texture and richer flavors. YoLo also offers a frozen yogurt station where you can pick your own flavor and portion of yogurt and top it with your choice of candies, fruits and syrups. You could make a killer combo to satisfy a sweet tooth here!

Shirley’s BakeryWith over 37 years of

experience, Ms. Shirley and

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her team can bake about any kind of cake, cookie or pastry you can imagine. Perfect to satisfy a dessert or snack craving. And they make great custom cakes for weddings, birthdays, baby showers, anniversaries… you name it. They also have homemade candies, fudge, brownies, petit fours, snowballs, cookies, cookie sandwiches, chess squares, cake squares and more.

H.R.H. Dumplin’sA local specialist in

cakes and pies, Dumplin’s makes them fresh daily. The cakes are round, 3-layer, beautiful and delicious! Try a slice of strawberry, caramel, hummingbird, coconut, German chocolate… or my favorite, yummy, White Chocolate Chip! They also have delicious meringue tower pies in chocolate, coconut, lemon icebox and key lime. The desserts may be famous at this place, but I also have to mention the great lunch specials--colorful salads, fresh sandwiches and plate lunches with their famous rolls and strawberry butter. Definitely worth a stop in!

Downtown Diners & DivesLiberty Street Grill

Open for lunch only, Liberty Street Grill is known for their great $5 lunch specials that typically include a sandwich, side and drink. You can get everything from burgers and fries to hoagie sandwiches to chicken Phillies. What you won’t find here—quiche or fruit salad.

Dixie CastleSurprisingly, this

traditional Southern diner is known locally for their great steaks. Dixie Castle also offers burgers, sandwiches and daily plate lunches specials like chicken & dressing, meatloaf, pork chops and more. What you won’t find

here—a credit card machine. Cash or check only!

Royal Reed’sThe epitome of soul food,

tucked away off the beaten path! Served cafeteria style, guests walk through the line and pick a meat and sides from the daily choices, all made fresh. Don’t forget the sweet tea and homemade dessert. What you won’t find here—a low cal menu. This hearty food isthe real deal! Baker’s Rack

A favorite lunch stop for most downtowners. You can get great breakfast, deli

sandwiches, a daily lunch plate special, and fresh baked goods like cookies, cakes, pies, brownies and more in individual servings or whole. What you won’t find here—burgers or fries.

Mam’selle is all about thedetails.

907D Vann DriveMon - Sat 10a - 6p

731.668.2420

Fine women’s clothing and accessories since 1973.Call today to schedule a complimentary 45-minute styling

session with one of our talented personal stylists.

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It’s that time of year again, hustle and bustle on every corner. Everyone is scrambling around trying to find the perfect present for the holiday season. Looking through the online websites, trying to identify the must-haves. It all can be a bit overwhelming, or under, in my case. I often find that I am the one checking the list off December 22, paying overnight shipping, and fighting the crowds hoping that those last minute gifts will jump out from the shelves and grab me, sadly, this never happens.

This year I am hitting the local stores early, checking out the sales, shopping online, and filling the closet with practical presents that will have more “AWE,” factor than Big Mama’s dressing.

So far many things have sparked my attention, I am pleased to share with you some of my “Picks!” Enjoy.

1. Happy HankyThe handkerchief is a classic, practical accessory that has long been a part of special occasions & wedding ceremonies and is a new handbag staple for the eco-chic. However, the plain, white hankies that women use always look like an afterthought. Happy Hanky is setting a new trend with its line of fun, stylish handkerchiefs. The designer uses fresh, colorful cotton prints and trims to give the line a fun, flirty, retro feel.

She named the line Happy Hanky after remembering that mom told her hankies hold memories from happy tears, like laughing so hard you cry with friends. The feel-good poem found on the Happy Hanky packaging was written by her mom.

The gift trends see consumers looking to buy items that represent a gift of thought rather than money, so items that strike an emotion, like Happy Hanky, are making great gifts for the people they care about.

Price~$15.00For a store near you~www.happyhanky.com

2. Lady In RedGift yourself or your bestie with an amazing red cocktail dress. Nothing says, “Superstar,” better than red. This silk chiffon creation is sure to turn the heads of everyone at the holiday parties, in a good way. Adorn with swarovski crystals, and a stunning ruffled neckline, we love the entire look of this dress. Designed by famous designer Mac Duggal, it is available in over 20 stores and boutiques across Tennessee.

Price~$299.00To find a store near you go to www.macduggal.com

1

2

Autumn Journal Handkerchief

1

4

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3. SlimpressionsLOVE this! Everyone I know loves a great tank top. expecially with a little sleeve to control that “Hello, Goodbye” arm. Slimpressions is the answer. I personally own it, and give it as gifts often. Who doesn’t love an instant, tummy tuck without the fuss. Every year between Thanksgiving and Christmas, I always feel like I have to back up from the trough. This top allows me a little more freedom, atleast til New Years when I make that resolution for the 20th year in a row.Balanced, everyday compression smoothes and shapes dreaded “arm flab”, back fat, muffin top, jelly belly and lower waist bulge. Using a patented seamless technology, this comfortable body slimmer makes a fantastic layering piece without giving the appearance of being shapewear. The sleeves can be adjusted to sit just above or below the elbow to achieve your desired look. Sporting The HavesTM by Slimpressions® is a great way to look like you’ve lost weight when you wear a fitted ¾ or long-sleeve shirt or dress.

Price~$64.00For a store near you:

www.slimpression.com

Paige Burcham-CarltonThird Party Columnist for the 301 Magazine A lifelong West Tennessean, and resident of Union City, Tennessee, Paige, is the star of Lifetime Televi-sions Glamour Belles. She is also a Designer and Cre-ative Director for Sugar by Mac Duggal, the number one childrens line in America. Paige was most recently named a style host for PR Media, where she travels the country hosting morning shows style segments for CBS, NBC, and FOX. Paige’s most proud accomplish-ment is being the youngest female in West Tennessee ever elected to public office. She currently serves at the 24th district Senatorial Rep for the State Executive Committee. In her spare time she enjoys being the of-ficial wardrober of Miss Tennessee for Miss America.

4. SUKIFinally found the perfect, stocking stuffer, that will be used and begged for every year. Made popular by Tom Cruise, Eva Longoria, Tom Hanks, Courtney Cox and many more. Skincare by suki® has completely evolved pure skin care from traditional practices to the cutting-edge. From the foam cleansers to the eye lift cellular renewal cream, suki® products have a nutrient-filled base unmatched in the industry. My favorite feature is 100% pure ingredients, and the clean feel.

Available nationwide in speciality boutiques and all Whole Foods.

Price~$29.99 (Cleanser)www.sukiskincare.com

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Clothing for this shot provided by The Boutique on Carriage House Drive Jackson.

44

This fall and winter you will see earthy colored pants, coats, shirts and suits. Once again a 70s style look is coming back, except it is more tailored and elegantly presented.Buy at: ASOS www.asos.com

Inspired by the 1970’s, these aviator sunglasses have soft curves and a mini-malistic style. They are extremely lightweight and can be worn by either man or woman.

Buy at: Bergdorf Goodmanwww.bergdorfgoodman.com

It could have been the

show Mad Men or the

return of the vintage

look that inspired the

pencil skirt to pop up

this fall, whatever the

case it is a trend that

continually resurfaces

in the fashion cycle.

The pencil skirt can

be worn with any shoe

(besides sneakers) and

looks great in any fig-

ure.

Buy at: Edenton Etc.

24 Federal Dr #24F

731.660.6070

With notes of

citron, cypres

s,

lemon and grap

efruit, either

man

or woman can w

ear this. As t

he

citrus notes b

egin to wear o

ff,

the cypress sc

ent takes in a

ffect

and reminds on

e of the Sicil

ian

countryside.

Buy at: Barney

s New York

www.ba

rneys.com

Made in the early 1900s, this boot

was known for giving men 1,000 miles worth of wear, hence the name the 1,000 mile boot. Still

made in the U.S.A., this boot is

made from fine leather and stitched to perfection for one

gorgeous looking boot.

Buy at: Wolverinewww.wolverine.com/us/1000mile

The Wild West meets the Matrix and turns oh so chic. Warm up from head to toe this fall with the Duster trend. Pair it with any pant, skirt or dress for a sophisticated yet austere look.

This watch comes in either a stainless steel or gold dial with a black leather strap and is water resistant up to 30 meters. It can be worn with blue jeans or slacks. It is a simple and elegant watch that is great for a young graduate or just a man’s everyday watch.Buy at: Princeton Watcheswww.princetonwatches.com

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This now

renowned fashion

designer has a

shoe line that

wont cost you an

arm and a leg to

obtain. Unlike

other designers

who create lower

end lines, Chri

stian Siriano’s

line for Payless

still has his s

tyle and design

written all over

it. It is perfe

ct for any woman

who is or is not

on a budget.

Buy at: Payless

ShoeSource

1970 N Highland

Ave

731.422.3853

This Portland based jewelry designer used

anything from deer antlers to vegetable

ivory to craft their most recent designs.

Besides using exotic materials, the jew-

elry line uses precious stones, fine metals

and wood to create their stunning pieces.

It shouldn’t be too hard to convince your

honey you need one of their pieces, consid-

ering deer hunting is king in the south.

Now, only if they incorporate duck feathers

next!

Buy at: Sticks and Stones

www.yeahwewood.com

Italian architec

t,

Sylvia Pichler,

de-

signs handbags w

ith

a material edge.

The handbags are

made out of an a

rray

of materials, su

ch

as rubber, alumi

num foils, natur

al oak and

sponge while lin

ed with luxuriou

s leathers

to create a play

ful yet elegant

look.

Buy at: Not Just

A Label

www.notjustalab

el.com/zilla

A fun and comfortable shoe that gives off old school

flare yet has a contemporary look. It has the look of

the classic Champion shoe but is fitted like a loafer. A

great shoe that is transitional from summer to winter.

Buy at: PIPERLIME

www.piperlime.com

You will be moving in good company,

as the phrase hob knob suggests, with

this stainless steel flask and beaker.

Presented in a faux leather carry case

with an engravable nameplate, it is a

wonderful gift idea for any groomsman or

father.Buy at: Reed & Barton

www.reedandbarton.com

Show some leg! The thigh high slit is for the modern- day girl who is not afraid to step out of the box and show off her beautiful legs. It is a dramatic look that can be worn day or night.

Buy at: The Boutique 310 Carriage

House Drive

731.664.1842

Once deigned to hide hefty figures, the double-breasted suit has now modernized into a suit that highlights a man’s masculine physique. It has a slim cut in the waist and a broad shoulder. It is no longer a fad of the 80 and 90s, but a flattering closet piece for any man.

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While most movies are made in Hollywood, there are many other movie locations around the world. Some areas are used more than others, such as Seattle, New York, London and Paris. But, some of the most remote or obscure places may become the filming site for the next blockbuster.

There are specific people that serve as location scouts for film and television. It is their job to find the right house, business, streets, etc. for each part of the film. Some movies use a lot of locations, while others are limited to just a few, or even just one.

This is where William Fain and the Jackson Film House come in. William has created a business that is strictly dedicated to promoting Jackson and West Tennessee to the film industry. It is a proven fact that even the smallest of motion pictures can really play a big role in boosting small town economics, and according to William, there is no better place for these films to be produced then right here in West Tennessee.

“The people of this community have no idea the types of dollars a motion picture could bring in, “ says Fain. “The Jackson Film House is already in discussions with major producers and it is our hope to better our community by convincing them to come to West Tennessee.”

There is little doubt that films and television aid the tourist industry. But, becoming the site for movie locations also helps the economy of the area in other ways. It brings a lot of income for local hotels, restaurants and other businesses, as well.

Serial Major motion pictures have taken place in some well-known

cities. For example, National Treasure and National Treasure II were shot most notably in Washington DC, Paris and London. While Night in the Museum was mostly shot around New York City. The Lord of the Rings series was filmed in New Zealand. And, of course, Pretty Woman was filmed in Beverly Hills.

How awesome would it be for Jackson, TN or some other close by area to be the next “go-to” place for film and television. So, maybe in the future, screenwriters like the ones who wrote Forrest Gump won’t have to invent a Greenbow, AL when they can have a real Jackson, TN.

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William Fain at the Jackson Filmhouse offices located in the Renaissance Center .

“A Shoe Company with a Much Higher Purpose”

PAIR for PAIRTM GivingPAIR for PAIRTM GivingEach Pair Sold = A Pair Given to a USA Child in Need & the Message of

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