Jackson Free Press

We'll admit that living in Jackson can be frustrating. Even though reports of major crimes have dropped precipitously over the past few years, Jacksonians understandably experience heartburn with every news story, often sensationalistic, about violent crime in the capital city.

Despite the fact that infrastructure has plagued Jackson and cities for decades, deepening potholes and boil-water notices become fodder for social-media conversations and frequent punch lines.

Departing businesses—both beloved local spots and convenient national chains—can leave us suffering feelings of rejection.

We're a progressive city, but big-idea change seems elusive when politics prevails when it comes to providing barebones education funding and health-care access. Then, there is the case of now-ex Democratic Rep. Bo Eaton, who prevailed in an election, and legally, only to be unseated by the House Republican leadership thirsty for the power to ram their desired legislation through the chamber without input from anybody else, other than their campaign donors, of course.

If Republicans are willing to so brazenly ensure their own supermajority, Jackson should definitely steady itself for a nasty fight over control of the airport, its wastewater system and whatever other assets they've got their eyes on.

These could be reasons to be glum. We see them as opportunities for the elected leaders, musicians, visual artists, activists, civic leaders and business owners celebrated in this 14th Annual Best of Jackson issue to seize to innovate and come up with solutions for these challenges.

For Jackson to continue building on its successes, we'll look to the dynamic individuals nominated in categories such as best local Democrat, Republican and Urban Warrior, as well as the amazing nonprofit organizations recognized for their work in the arts and public service.

The city's new chefs working at the newest restaurants, along with all the cool, new bars, increasing options for pub quiz, and our always thriving live music scene are welcome and needed respites for the hardworking people of Jackson.

The best way to fight decay, real and perceived, is to keep making Jackson the kind of place where Jacksonians, suburbanites and visitors from all over Mississippi—and beyond—want to visit and, hopefully, live.

When Jackson increases in population, so do tax collections that can go to fixing potholes, water pipes and water billing problems. It also means building political strength to fight brute attempts by the state to pilfer Jackson's valuables.

It's our view that Jackson's troubles bring out the best in its people. We've seen it firsthand in the 13.5 years of this paper. Our readers also know it, as evidenced by the response to this year's Best of Jackson contest (see pages 15-58). We invite you to not only read about the this year's bests, but to also offer your best (skills, knowledge, creativity, etc.) to Jackson and its people.