by Writing by Design Media, Inc. staff
The 22nd annual JEWEL awards program will be held Feb. 18, 2023 at The Carl Perkins Civic Center in Jackson, Tennessee. JEWEL is an acronym for Joining Entrepreneurs with Enterprising Leadership. This is one of the Jackson Madison County African American Chamber of Commerce signature events.
"This will be our first in person event in three years and I am both excited and nervous. I'm nervous because it is my first time coordinating a live event and I certainly do not want any surprises. We are expecting a great turnout and our sponsors have continued to show their support year after year," said Don McCorry, interim executive director of the Jackson Madison County African American Chamber of Commerce.
The categories are Ruby (one to five years); Diamond (six - 10 years); Emerald (11 - 20 years) and Jewel (20+ years).
"The founders (of JMCAACC) wanted to highlight and focus on minority businesses,” said McCorry. “The Chamber wants to applaud and recognize them in a public setting to make them aware that they are valued and that they make a significant contribution to the community," said McCorry.
This year’s program emcees are Maurice ‘Moe’ Shamell, meteorologist of WBBJ television and Meghan Elyce Hicks, Ms. Juneteenth.
“I am excited to attend this fabulous event. It will be an honor to meet my fellow business owners for socialization and networking," said Clarissa Halton-Williams newly elected president of the Chamber.
The musical entertainment will feature Smooth Jazz Progressions.
Nominations are still being accepted until Jan. 13, 2023. To learn more about the Chamber, visit http://www.jmcaacc.org/awards.html.
The JEWEL Awards ceremony will take place at the Carl Perkins Civic Center located at 400 S. Highland at 6:30 p.m. in Jackson, Tenn. To purchase tickets, send email to jacksonmcaacc@gmail.com.