Downtown Jackson Faces
August 2023 - February 2024
TRISTA HAVNER
Trista Havner, co-owner of Havner’s Frame Shop, is integral in the frame-making processes, curates the gallery, and supports local artists through gallery showings.
"Charlie and I have wanted to move the shop downtown for a decade. We are both native Jacksonians so the idea of being a part of bringing life and health back to Downtown Jackson was always a dream. Downtowns are where the passion for city growth and community are strongest, and that’s where we always want to be."
CYNTHIA WILKES
Cynthia Wilkes, better known as TT, plays a crucial role in groundskeeping and enhancing our community and the spaces we get to enjoy in #downtownjacksontn.
When we started this series, TT's name was immediately added to our list. She is the perfect example of someone who is crucial to everyday downtown development. "TT embodies the Downtown Faces campaign for me. She is tirelessly working for her community behind the scenes without recognition. Her work demonstrates her dedication to beautifying the spaces we get to enjoy Downtown every day."
PAUL TAYLOR
Paul Taylor, President of Jackson Downtown Development Corporation, has been dedicated to both economic and community development in and around the Downtown core for years.
"Downtown Jackson serves as the historical and cultural heart of the city. I firmly believe in the significance of maintaining a robust and vibrant urban core within our community. The well-being and vitality of this core directly influence our community's overall health and economic strength."
LILY K. LEWIS
Lily K. Lewis is a local author with a deep belief in the power of community and storytelling.
“The most rewarding part about having book signings and pop-ups downtown has been realizing that my community is the reason I was able to achieve my goals. Without them, I would never have had the confidence to reach out to new people for partnerships or become comfortable advocating for myself and my work.”
JAMES LEWIS WILBOURN
James Lewis Wilbourn, better known as Shine, got his name from one of his first jobs shining shoes and he has been shining shoes at the West TN Farmers’ Market since the first year it opened!
He is the perfect example of someone who makes Downtown Jackson what it is. “This Holiday season there is no one better to highlight. James, better known as Shine, lights up the Farmers’ Market all year long. While his nickname originates from shining shoes as a boy, if you know him you know his name fits the gentle spirit he brings and the smile he puts on your face. He’s a bright spot and gift to Downtown,” says Beth Ann Simpson.
ONTONI REEDY
Ontoni Reedy is an educator and manager of the @eat731jacksontn account. In addition to teaching full time, Ontoni contributes to our community with his poetry and provides a platform for people to know the cuisine and exciting activities happening in our community every weekend.
“I love that downtown businesses are always supporting each other whether it’s a collaboration together, frequenting each other’s businesses, or sharing/promoting each other’s specials, events, products, etc. Downtown is a place you can stay a while, walk around, meet new people, and enjoy yourself,” Ontoni said.