I knew who Ontoni Reedy was long before I ever spoke to him. He is one of those people whose reputation precedes them, the kind of man who everyone can attribute something positive to even if they do not know him personally. It came as no shock to me that, when polled, our community chose to recognize him as someone who is contributing to building culture. He is always building something and the list of his contributions spans theater and education and cuisine.
Read MoreIn the vibrant tapestry of the Jackson community, few threads shine as brightly as the one woven by Wendy Trice Martin. As a stalwart advocate for equal justice and cultural awareness, Wendy has dedicated her life to fostering unity and empowerment in the Jackson community. She has been a master storyteller, a devoted educator, a community convenor, and a mother to so many. And through her tireless work, she has helped our community witness significant changes, while inspiring countless others.
Read MorePaul Taylor is someone who truly cares about this place we call our Jackson home. From his history in Jackson as well as time spent living in other parts of the country, Paul brings a unique perspective and understanding for where we have been as a community and has the vision and skills to help us accomplish better for our community. Paul Taylor is making change in Jackson.
Read MoreProfessional photographer Darren Lykes is driving change in Jackson through a surprising but powerful avenue — connection.
Darren’s involvement in the community is far-reaching. As both an event producer and leader, he was one of the founders of The STAR Center’s “Dancing with the Stars,” producer of Lane College Founder’s Day scholarship luncheon each spring, and chairperson of Jackson TN Pride – Pride in the Park and Pride After Dark. He serves on the board of the Ned, the Miss Tennessee Volunteer and Miss Volunteer America programs, as well as the Community Foundation of West Tennessee.
Read MoreIron City, Tennessee sits just north of the Alabama border, tucked right at the bottom of the state line. As its name suggests, the town is tough; its history marked with rebellion and anarchy in a setting that brings to mind Jason Isbell’s “Decoration Day” — a song rife with generational violence, a southern-fried version of the Hatfields and McCoys.
Cody Stooksberry was born and raised in Iron City and describes his hometown as “a town that’s known for being a little outlaw.”
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