Porchlight Realty West TN, under the leadership of Debra Kee, Principal Broker/Owner, is where community, experience, and service meet. As the Principal Broker/Owner, Kee brings over eight years of real estate expertise, coupled with a love for West Tennessee’s growing communities. What started as an idea, transformed into a goal, and is today’s reality! "Through real estate, I’m helping to build and nurture communities," reflects Kee. “West Tennessee is a great place and I enjoy showing individuals what our community has to offer.” But she knows that she wouldn’t be where she is today without the inspiration and support of friends and family and the benefit of loving what she does. Despite being a new office, Porchlight Realty West TN includes many experienced, top-producing agents ready to help with clients’ real estate needs. And for Kee, it's not just about those real estate transactions; it's about fostering meaningful connections and helping to grow our West Tennessee communities. Kee's dedication extends beyond real estate. Serving as an Ambassador for the Greater Jackson Chamber for 10 years and an active leader in Leadership Jackson and the Central West TN Association of Realtors, she loves giving back to Jackson and West Tennessee in many ways. At Porchlight Realty West TN, Debra Kee’s goal is clear: to continue to help buyers and sellers through each real estate process and make sure their team's experience shines through in every step. If you have questions or are ready to buy or sell a property anywhere in West Tennessee, contact Debra at 731-300-3030 (office) or 731-501-0161 (cell). Commercial Bank and Trust Company takes great care to provide personalized, expert financial advice to clients of all sizes. Since 1877, they’ve catered to both the personal financial needs of their clients and the successes of small businesses. Serving all of Jackson, they have locations at 3093 North Highland and 79 Stonebridge with our newest location coming soon at 633 Oil Well.  Also, their one-of-a-kind Mobile Bank Branch serves business clients in all areas of Jackson.  Their bank is built on strong relationships and outstanding service. Constantly, they strive to exceed their clients’ expectations whether offering new financial products or unveiling a better digital banking experience. They are a full-service bank dedicated to making each client feel special by offering services such as private banking, commercial banking, small business tools, trust services, mortgages, depository services, and much more.  Beyond offering impeccable service and a wide range of financial options, they enjoy making a difference in their communities. Their employees aren’t just bank staff; they’re your neighbors. They give back to their communities by sponsoring local events, school supply drives, service projects, and initiatives that are close to their employees’ hearts. In Jackson, they are delighted to sponsor numerous charitable organizations, and their annual Halloween and Christmas open houses are always a wonderful treat.  They make a difference for the people they serve because they live among us. Their goal is to offer a sophisticated approach to banking right here at home because you shouldn’t have to sacrifice quality to enjoy a community-focused bank. Give them a try today and see that there really is a difference with Commercial Bank and Trust Company in Jackson. Master Medical Equipment began in 2011 as a distributor of capital medical equipment for hospitals, EMS, and public access emergencies. Its mission is to equip businesses and healthcare professionals with life-saving equipment sales, service, and support. In 12 years, MME has grown from a 3-person company to a 75,000 sq. ft. facility with over 90 employees. Alongside a sister company for medical equipment repairs, ReNew Biomedical, they created a hub for medical equipment sales and service in West Tennessee and the Southeast. The team at Master Medical Equipment is passionate about its work because they see the life-saving impact of their equipment both locally and nationally. They are thankful to work closely with first responders, paramedics, firefighters, and law enforcement in Tennessee and around the country. They also equip non-healthcare businesses for emergencies like Sudden Cardiac Arrest, which claims the lives of over 355,000 Americans every year. They equip businesses with Automated External Defibrillators, or AEDs, that deliver a heart-starting shock in the event of an SCA, as well as AED and CPR training. Master Medical Equipment achieves a balance between corporate and community. Instead of neglecting brick-and-mortar neighbors, they’re proud to support local businesses as well as raise funds for local non-profits. You can find them at The Jackson Baseball Stadium, charity events, 5ks, and much more. MME has thrived as a business and has become an integral part of the healthcare community. Mark Taylor, CEO/ Founder of Master Medical Equipment, a distributor of medical equipment across the United States and the globe, is happy to spearhead MME's unwavering dedication to excellence, community engagement, and the service and support of our customers.  Master Medical Equipment is happy to answer any questions you may have concerning medical equipment for healthcare or non-healthcare organizations. Their friendly and knowledgeable customer service team is available to answer any equipment or Sudden Cardiac Arrest Awareness questions. They have an online chat feature where you can contact them through our website, or call at 866-704-5617.   Office Interiors is a full-service office furniture dealer specializing in comprehensive solutions for your workspace needs. Whether you need desks, chairs, storage solutions, lobby furniture, blinds, or conference tables, their Jackson, Tennessee team is ready to serve you! From idea to installation, Office Interiors is a "one-stop shop" for all your workspace needs. Vicki Raines and Tami Daniel are your local experts ready to assist you with any office design, product, installation, or moving need. This team has been heavily active in the Jackson business community for more than ten years.  Regardless of your industry, Vicki and Tami work with you to provide the most current products that meet or exceed the guidelines in place for quality, durability, and aesthetics set in place by your team. They work with hundreds of manufacturers to ensure you have the best, most cost-effective solution for a wide range of products.  "We pride ourselves on our ability to provide effective solutions to companies and organizations in every industry," said Vicki. "We have unique experience assisting clients in industries with specialized needs due to the nature of their work and consumer needs, like financial services, healthcare, education, and manufacturing." Office Interiors has been in business for more than 23 years and is trusted by many of the MidSouth's most prominent companies to procure all their office needs. Vicki and Tami are Sales Executives supported by a comprehensive team based in Memphis. Office Interiors designers listen to your needs and bring your ideas to reality. The Sales Executives ensure you receive the best solution at the best price. Customer service representatives ensure your workspace solutions are delivered on time, and the in-house installation team assembles your products correctly and safely. "Having a local presence here in Jackson really benefits our customers," said Tami. "They like that they can call and speak directly to us. Because we are local, we can offer quicker, more personalized service than out-of-town or online companies." The Jackson, Tennessee, Office Interiors team is excited about the strong talent the city is attracting and the new projects being planned.  "I love working in the Jackson area because it has become a thriving city with a strong economy," said Vicki. "I love being a part of the Greater Jackson Chamber and the supportive business community." In addition to their professional contributions to the Jackson community, Vicki and Tami enjoy supporting small businesses, charitable functions, and local organizations such as the Dream Center and Northside Assembly. They appreciate the Downtown activities with the Hub, Carl Perkins Civic Center, and the Arts District.  For more information about how Office Interiors can help your business, contact Vicki (901-484-1765) or Tami (731-234-1965). You can learn more online at www.officeinteriors.com. Steak Escape Sandwich Grill, first started in Ohio by Ken Smith and Mark Turner, is a successful sandwich shop that has dedicated itself to being the highlight of the day to everyone who walks through their door. Founded in 1982, the restaurant made its way to Jackson in 2017 and has provided great food ever since. Jackson’s Steak Escape held a grand re-opening in October of 2023 to celebrate the arrival of new owner Maribel Sadal. When asked why she wanted to own the restaurant, Sadal responded: “I fell in love with the food and what it stood for.” Sadal hopes to make the restaurant a household name. Steak Escape may be a franchise, but it is passionate about the Jackson community. “We are locally owned and very family-oriented,” Sadal said. “We love our community. I love the people and feel of a small town.”  Known for not only its customer service but also its unique branding, Steak Escape is constantly redesigning to meet the needs of its customers. When people veered away from food courts and began to frequent streetside restaurants, Steak Escape moved from malls to standalone buildings, even offering drive-thrus at some stores. Steak Escape Sandwich Grill can be found at 1430 Union University Drive. For more information, contact Maribel Sadal at 909-240-3078 or visit https://www.facebook.com/SteakEscapeJackson.

With a focus on small to medium business owners, Steele Martin Jones CPAs and Business Advisors is a multi-service accounting firm with clients throughout West Tennessee and across the country. It offers a comprehensive range of services, including tax preparation, business advising, accounting, and payroll services.

In recent months, the firm has added a fourth partner, increased its professional staff, and opened a third location on Trenton’s court square.

New Partner, William Welch

Tom Carson Jones, the firm’s senior partner, attributes the growth to the relationships it builds with its clients. “We’re the CPA firm that talks to our clients,” he said. “We work with our clients all year long to help their business grow, make good financial choices, and optimize their tax commitment.”

The firm’s other partners are Brandon Clenney, Kevin McKenzie, and William Welch, the newest partner. The professional staff also includes Kristi Mendez, Senior Tax Advisor and certified IRS Enrolled Agent, and CPAs Page Cole and Cullyn Moore. Stacey Byrd leads a QuickBooks ProAdvisor team that works closely with clients on their payroll needs. Ten more staff members have college degrees in accounting.

“Our focus is on small-to-medium sized businesses and individuals,” said Clenney. Along with the obvious services of accounting and tax preparation, he added, other services include helping clients with payroll, buying or selling a business, starting a new business, managing financial statements, managing sales taxes, and planning for retirement.

“We also are one of the few firms in the area that actually specializes in tax preparation and working with the IRS,” Clenney said.

McKenzie considers the firm a client’s “non-equity business partner. We get to know our clients well. As a former business owner, I understand their challenges.”

Steele Martin Jones was founded by Mike Steele in 1979. Partner Gary Martin joined in 1982, and Jones joined the firm in 1994. Both Steele and Martin have since retired.

The firm has been active in the Chamber for many years. Founding Partner Steele helped the Chamber create its Business of the Year awards. Steele Martin Jones has won three of those awards: Small Business of the Year, Cornerstone Business of the Year, and a Pinnacle Award. Jones was the founding chair of the Chamber’s Pinnacle Awards. In 2023, the firm was named VIP Magazine’s “Best Accounting Firm in Jackson.”

Steele Martin Jones is at 100 Stonebridge Blvd. The Trenton office is at 109 W. Court Square. The Parsons office is open by appointment only. For more information, visit steelemartin.com or call 731-668-9183.

Dillard Companies, founded by John Dillard as Dillard Door & Specialty Co in the 1940s, has grown from those roots to become a premier provider of a wide range of products and services. From its humble origins, Dillard has grown far beyond its glass door roots. The company now offers cutting-edge solutions that exceed industry standards, serving as Tennessee's leading provider of security systems. Dillard Companies has become known for its unwavering integrity, reliability, and innovative solutions, offering clients top-of-the-line doors and gates, access control, surveillance, and total security solutions. Recent acquisitions have also added in-house glass and electrical capabilities. Dillard Companies has consistently demonstrated leadership in delivering superior products and services. The company continues to set itself apart from the competition. It leads the way through expertise, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.  Instead of quick but flimsy fixes, Dillard provides reliability. They excel in finding solutions and solving challenges, and specialize in developing comprehensive security solutions for commercial and residential applications. To achieve these goals, Dillard collaborates extensively with property owners, architects, and engineers. Each solution they provide is tailored to the unique client's needs and requirements. Community service is ingrained in the DNA of Dillard. It was at a Memphis Rotary meeting in 2000 that founder John Dillard entrusted the company to Chris Bird. John passed down more than a legacy of excellence and customer service — he further fueled the spark and commitment in Chris to making a positive impact on the community. That dedication to community development is unwavering. CEO Chris Bird actively participates in various church and community organizations. He serves on the Memphis Rotary Club Board, the Memphis Heritage Board, and the Regional One Health Foundation Board of Directors. Further, he participates in the Calvary Episcopal Church Vestry and the NFIB State Leadership Council, among others.  Likewise, John Rountree, Chief Revenue Officer at Dillard, is involved in numerous initiatives. John serves on the Board of Directors for Jackson State Community College, as well as on the Board of Directors for the Ronald McDonald House. Dillard Companies' commitment to quality and community betterment in Greater Jackson is unwavering. That commitment has made the company a trusted partner for businesses and residents alike. When Dillard makes a promise, they follow through with exceptional service. To learn more about Dillard Companies and the causes they support, please call 901.775.2143 today. Get ready for the holiday season in Jackson and West Tennessee! Here’s a list of Christmas parades to get you ready for the holidays: Monday, November 27, 2023 6:00 PM - Alamo 6:00 PM - Trenton 7:00 PM - Dyersburg Tuesday, November 28, 2023 6:00 PM - Medina *Rain Date-Nov 30* 7:00 PM - Halls Saturday, December 2, 2023 4:00 PM - McKenzie 5:00 PM - Brownsville 5:00 PM - Dyer 5:00 PM - Saltillo 5:30 PM - South Fulton 6:00 PM - Somerville 6:00 PM - Bolivar 6:00 PM - Gleason 6:30 PM - Kenton Sunday, December 3, 2023 5:00 PM - Selmer 5:00 PM - Decaturville Monday, December 4, 2023 6:30 PM - Jackson 6:30 PM - Savannah 7:00 PM - Martin Thursday, December 7, 2023 6:30 PM - Milan 7:00 PM - Henderson 7:00 PM - Union City 7:00 PM - Clarksburg Saturday, December 9, 2023 9:00 AM - Michie 5:00 PM - Paris 5:00 PM - Middleton 6:00 PM - Friendship 6:00 PM - Scotts Hill 6:00 PM - Huntingdon 6:00 PM - Troy Monday, December 11, 2023 7:00 PM - Lexington 7:00 PM - Trezevant Saturday, December 16, 2023 6:30 PM - Bethel Springs 7:00 PM - Linden Build your own itinerary or download the Visit Jackson, TN APP – Google Play or Apple Visit Jackson, TN to connect with what is happening in Jackson and West Tennessee. Connect socially on Facebook,  Instagram and Twitter or call 731.425.8333.

Local poet and author and founder of “The Griot Collective” James Cherry has been selected as October 2023 Hub City Hero.

Cherry’s nominator said that they nominated him for “his longtime dedication to teaching youth in Jackson how to express themselves through written and spoken word art platforms.”

Cherry, an author of three books of poems, two novels, and one collection of short fiction, said that Dr. [Martin Luther] King’s concept of community is how he thinks community should be.

“When I think of community, I just don't think of neighborhoods or districts but the whole city as a community. For example, if East Jackson does well, then the entire city is lifted up,” said Cherry. “I feel that since I'm a life-long citizen here that it's incumbent that I give back in some form or fashion, so that's one of my missions is to try to help where I can.”

“The Griot Collective,” of which Cherry founded, is a literary arts organization in Jackson that hosts poetry workshops and teaches about community activism.

“We bring in different writers of national reputation to the city,” said Cherry. “We sponsor poetry contests for kids. We have a visiting writer's series and we have open mics around the city.”

Cherry was an instrumental member of the team that helped with the efforts to pay homage and celebrate Gil Scott-Herron, a world-renowned poet with deep roots in Jackson. There is now a marker in Jackson recognizing Gil Scott-Herron’s contributions to this art form because of the efforts of community leaders including James Cherry.

Cherry believes that each individual has a voice and to not feel as though they do not have an opinion and that they should “start where you are.”

“If it's your neighborhood or your school or whatever it may be and find someone who has like-interest and shares your desire. That's how movements start,” said Cherry. “I think about some of the movements that are popular around Jackson and our country. They basically started with one person who wanted to make a difference. You can make a difference right where you are.”

“James' commitment to the community through the arts, including his work with his literary organization, has enriched our city's cultural landscape,” said Mayor Scott Conger. “His heart for those who express themselves through writing is a testament to the power of passion and the profound impact one person can have on a city.”

“Hub City Heroes” selflessly and steadily give of their time and talent to improve the lives of others in the community. Recognition as a hero is one small way to thank these public servants for their efforts and it gives honorees the opportunity to raise awareness for causes that are important to them.

Criteria

Recipients will be selected monthly and nominations are continuous. To nominate a hero, visit http://hero.jacksontn.gov. Candidates must be a resident of Jackson, Tennessee

After a year of heroes have been recognized, one hero will be selected and awarded $1,000 to donate to a non-profit of their choice. For more information, visit http://hero.jacksontn.gov.

The City of Jackson announces the start of the fourth season of our citywide leaf pick-up starting Wednesday, November 1, 2023, through Friday, March 29, 2023. The leaf pick up process works by having dedicated crews assigned to each of the four pick up districts in the city. Crews will start at one end of their dedicated district and sweep in its entirety before starting over. Jackson residents do not have to call to request leaf pick up during the season due to the new sweep-thru method. “The fourth year of our 5-month city-wide leaf pick up initiative will soon begin and our citizens can look forward to an efficient process by our groundskeeping department headed up by Frank Woods and J.D. Sims,” said Mayor Scott Conger. “The employees hard work ensures a swift an effective process for the benefit of our city.” Some of the guidelines include that leaves must be raked into piles at the street within four (4) feet any leaves raked after the truck has been on your road will be picked up on the next round through; sticks and limbs are to be placed in a separate pile. Any pile of leaves with excess limbs will be skipped. For more information and additional leaf pick up guidelines visit http://leafpickup.jacksontn.gov.