ladd, you said that you no longer lived there so you couldn't speak of the current state of affairs, but i heard the number there saturday was over 300, and i was there toward the end. But without having read it, I'm guessing that the neighbors must be basing their arguments on something; I have seen in the past (before current owners) "unruly and disruptive" crowds there, but I can't know now. ;-)
Out of line. It's one of those rare issues that really does seem to have two solid sides to it, and I see them both, and don't believe either side should be demonized: the Sharps or the Modak-Trurans. opinions, substantiated or not, are going to be shared, no? User assumes all risk of use. That's not the same as opinion; and saying it is your opinion that it's true is not a defense. The restaurant does bring a different type of commerce to the street than the B&B does and, of course, the neighbors should have a say in whether or not they want that there. We have stayed in Inns across the US and Fairview Inn ranks we the best. Reminiscent of a French country bistro, the intimate dining All listings are informational only. How do you sustain a wait staff and a kitchen staff on that type of revenue?".
Change the law and if that doesn't hapen - obey the law. the trurans seem sympathetic in the article saying they "feel bad for the sharps." The first created a new classification for a bed-and-breakfast with a public restaurant, and the second exempted the Fairview from applying for a special use permit. why call him/her out? Bed & BreakfastsRestaurants/Bar & Grills
A restaurant at the Fairview Inn on Fairview Street could close to the public if a recent ruling by the Mississippi Supreme Court stands.
QB, this is a legal issue. It would be transparent to tell us that, if so, and you could still make your arguments. We assume no responsibility for any liability, loss or delay resulting from such use. As for "feet from" North State Street, recall that the Fairview Inn and its environs take up most of that block. So let's be clear, the Modak-Trurans and the Bakers have no problems at all with the Bed and Breakfast and are not trying to put the Fairview Inn out of business. i think "demonized" is a very loaded word. i hope you are implying the zoning change should should favor the sharps. If QB had said "in my opinion, this looks like", would he have been in the right then? No problem with the Sharps. 2599, with due respect, you are here because we invite you to be. Jackson, MS 39202
Perfect for bridal showers and elegant dinner, this room features crystal chandeliers, antique furnishings and versatile seating arrangements. ;-) And I know you understand the importance of history, considering what you do, and know that mentioning the history of a building and the person who created the issue in the first place is not a reflection on the current owners. Until something is alleged that is slanderous or criminal, without substantiated facts, aren't we entitled to be passionate about our observations?? That is probably still good advice today, no matter who owns the Fairview now. That law is unconstitutional.
i hope you are implying the zoning change should should favor the sharps. It is a legal issue, pure and simple. but as i have said before, this is being pursued by the trurans and could have been put to rest with a neighborhood agreement/proposition to change the zoning law (with the trurans advocating in that regard.) No problem with the Fairview Inn Bed and Breakfast. I mean what is the big deal. Like I said, this was predictable, and I agree with the Modak-Trurans that it's unfortunate that the Sharps inherited the problem the Simmonses created. A friend asked a few weeks ago if it was okay to put up the granddaughter of the Warner Brothers clan at the Fairview Inn, and I said absolutely. A smart move. they aren't asking that the zoning law be changed. 5. btw, had lunch at sophia's today. and don't tell me they didn't have to submit a brief, show up for orals, or otherwise put effort into continually pursuing this. You've clearly taken sides. That is over the line, and the childish fingerpointing about stuff you've supposedly "seen" here is irrelevant. I will say that I predicted then that this ruling might not stand. From what I hear, the two complaining couples are practically alone in this - the Belhaven neighborhood Association supports the restaurant. and it's one the sharps are unfortunately having to fight for. My entire point here is that no one is to use this site to villianize either side. Reporters have a lot of balls in the air right now, and this one isn't the most urgent one, news wise. I know all too well how allegations can damage a life (or multiple lives). This bar offers perfectly cooked prawns, steaks and fish listed on the menu. It was as if there was a media blackout on it. My impression has been that the Sharps are more attuned to the needs of the n'hood than were the Simmonses when they ran it; they came across as annoyed that the neighbors would dare challenge what they were doing. Why does it matter who brought this up or why? Because this issue seems to bring out the worst in many people, going forward, I will put you into "moderate" mode if you post a personal attack here, and I will delete any comments that contain personal attacks toward either side without further comment. i think s/he is making an observation. i've seen worse assumptions made on this board. A smart compromise is needed, and efforts to strengthen the law in a fair way that doesn't play favorites. Thanks for correcting my hurried misspelling of precedent, but you can't skate over the fact that it is an issue in this case. 4. It's one of those rare issues that really does seem to have two solid sides to it, and I see them both, and don't believe either side should be demonized: the Sharps or the Modak-Trurans. It's kinda basic. Imagine a combination of tasty meals and the knowledgeable staff, this is exactly what this spot provides you with. This legal question should be out of the hands of either side at this point. It sounds like you're doing just that, Stuart. I don't see any VILLAINS here, I just see a very grave mistake made re: how the site was zoned and I hope it can be resolved fairly in some fashion that still allows the restaurant to stay open. Ms. Barrett-Simon never wanted our input, and refused to meet with us despite repeated attempts. Piano Jazz featuring Knight Bruce for Sunday Buffet Brunch. js.src = "//connect.facebook.net/en_US/all.js#xfbml=1";
My whole point is that I have not taken a side, and am open to all sides to the extent that I have time to think about this. Part of our user agreement, if you will note, is that we do not allow complaints about the moderation to derail conversations on another topic (such as this one about the Fairview). At the time they did it, Simmons ran it, and I sure didn't feel he was owed any favors. var _mnisq=_mnisq||[];
2599, I'll answer that. "Unruly and disruptive patrons" of the Fairview?
See Euclid. Truran says his concern centers around "serving alcohol in a residential neighborhood"?
OK that said, all of my friends and biz associates know I am from Jackson and all of them are reading that book. Now they've gone and upset the bridge club. The law does need to be changed to allow the Fairview Inn, but not as a special case. This is is a zoning issue.
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I won't let anyone say that kind of stuff about you, unsubstantiated, either, for the record. it was my first visit and i'd like to return. (More urgent stories at hand.) After reading this again, i am wondering, Ward, why drag up Simmonses negative connections to the pro white organization? Instead, they are people who don't want to live across the street from a B&B, spa, event facility, and restaurant. Instead, they are people who don't want to live across the street from a B&B , spa, event facility, and restaurant. "It seems like the Simmonses tried to use more political influence on the city to get them to use this alternative procedure," Mark Modak-Truran said. Over the negative recommendation of the City of Jackson's Planning Board, the City Council of Jackson pushed forward on legislation that favored one business over all others. I don't know the Sharps and I don't know much about the Sharps. Largest dining area with French windows, fireplace, Victorian fans and elegant setting. The bottom line is that the zoning probably needs to be changed, rather than just seeking special exemptions. I know you've all heard about "The Help". phone: 601-362-6121 (ext 11 sales, ext 16 editorial, ext 17 publisher) This isn't a situation where either "side" is wrong, or should be demonized. 2. I wouldn't want to be in their shoes. It's kinda basic." Google users like Fairview Inn: it was rated 4.8 stars. This all comes to down to their not wanting cars legally parked on their street. What does that have to do with anything??? I can also sympathize with the defendants, and the practical advantage of having a restaurant there, and just wanting to stay in business. Otherwise, the whole thing will be patchwork and depend on the force of the personalities involved. The Fairview Inn has lost its fight to keep the zoning designation that allowed it to run its business in a residential Jackson neighborhood. We recommend the Fairview Inn Bed and Breakfast to business guests and family members. Sophias offers full bar service and an extensive and affordable wine list.Before or after dinner relax with a small plate and craft cocktail at the Library Lounge. Let's be honest, there is alot of trash talking on this board. For a good example of what happens when selective zoning is used to control which businesses and organizations can operate in a given community, we need look no further than the Madison mosque controversy. So them's the rules. Yes, justjess, it sounds like a bit of Iroquois Talking Sticking is in order. All who have addressed the problem understand it's legal ramifications; however, it is so unfortunate for the now owners who have spent so much time and money into making Fairview a class act. A full scale restaurant operation is incompatible with an R-2 designation. I am not involved in this dispute in any way other than what I already disclosed - the Fairview has been generous to a nonprofit of which I am a board member. Civil War- themed room with large antique tables. User agreement and privacy statement. Modak-Truran said that he regrets the tension the case has caused and that he feels badly for the Sharps. ;-). So don't waste your time, or mine. It is. I'm passionate about the Fairview because I see a couple here who came from Florida, and shortly after, lost their son to cancer, and have pushed and thrived and made this beautiful place what it is. "Unfortunately they didn't create this situation," Modak-Truran said. What you said that I quoted three posts above is not stated as opinion; it's stated as fact. My point is not against the Sharps; it is saying to rally the community to lobby to get the laws more friendly to mixed-use zoning if that's what you want to see, rather than relying on special favors. Nestled in the Belhaven District of Jackson, Peter & Tamar Sharp invite you to experience Sophias Restaurant. For me it doesn't matter what the plaintiffs' motives are and I certainly have nothing against the defendants; I ate at the Fairview for the first time Sunday for brunch. It's not like Sophia's is swamped with people every meal. Patio Dining, Fireplace, Non-Smoking Restaurant, Bar Seating, Smoking Area (patio), Brunch, Bar (Full), Private Rooms, Lounge, Smoking Area, Wine, Beer, Private Spaces. and i'll agree with stuart that there could have been a larger focus on the more recent history of the inn - including the efforts the sharps have put into making it what it is today. Thanks, 2599. Lovely people, but they inherited this problem. It's 100 +/- feet from North State not like in the middle of Belhaven. My assumptions are due to my experiences with this type of situation.
It's just that when you look at the addition of a full-service restaurant serving alcohol in a residential neighborhoodthere are good reasons why if you were going to do that you'd have to be in a commercial zone or get a special use permit.".
Thank you 2599. Lots of problems with the manner in which the City of Jackson enacted the Fairview Inn Amendments. I don't live over there any more. If you made it out to Saturday's open house/picnic, you would have seen first hand what a gem the Fairview AND Sophia's (and nomispa) is to Belhaven and Jackson, MS. Well, please read their opposition to the city's motion to reconsider.
They've made it clear that they're not against the B&B you do not have the right or standing to speak on their behalf and make accusations you can't know are true. yes, it brings a different crowd into the neighborhood, but so do weddings (where many have been drinking when they leave AND add to the traffic issues.) They should have been informed that there was a very good chance that we would win. (601) 948-3429
Ladd, QB (nor any of us here but you) are journalists. The four, all of whom are lawyers and representing themselves, then appealed to the state Supreme Court.
This is trash talk and unsubstantiated allegation, 2599: if (d.getElementById(id)) return;
"They inherited it.". Attorneys have 10 days to ask the Supreme Court to reconsider. Our first stay there, and we were nothing but impressed. yes, it brings a different crowd into the neighborhood, but so do weddings (where many have been drinking when they leave AND add to the traffic issues.) I hope it can be worked out in a way that makes more sense than the way the Simmonses finagled it. It is they, not Simmons, who are adversely impacted by this ruling. I do hope it works out well for everyone, though. It's not journalistic bias I'm concerned about; you're potentially committing libel by stating unsubstantiated facts about other people -- we're not talking about committing a criminal act.
As far as I can see, there are good people on both sides, and ad hominem attacks are ridiculous. We journalists have to learn that quickly. Many were respectful; others just ignored the signs that showed them where to park and such. I was in New Orleans the other day, and commented to my friend who lives there that the most wonderful thing about the city was no matter where you lived, you could just walk outside, take a few steps, and in no time be enjoying dinner somewhere. Instead of it being "Fairview Inn", the Welcome Sign would read, "Welcome to the INNS of Fairview." ;-) It's a beautiful inn. I personally believe that every side in the debate has the interests of the city at heart. We're hooked. But we are entitled to protect our home, and we are doing so within our legal rights. Your entire argument is premised on the assumption that the plaintiffs merely want to overturn the City Council's allowing the Fairview to operate a restaurant. http://www.fairviewinn.com/library-lounge&cachebuster=1626958793. Pay fair prices for eating at this bar. Lots of problems with the terms of the legislation passed in favor of the Fairview Inn. The Mississippi Supreme Court showed a rare bit of good sense by ruling the way it did. Leave it to Mississippi to come up with a "NIMBY" project that involves an upscale restaurant! I don't think Jackson can afford this kind of NIMBYism. Peter Sharp, who owns and operates the Belhaven bed-and-breakfast with his wife Tamar, said today that attorneys representing the Inn and the city will likely ask the Supreme Court to reconsider its decision. "We still support Fairview in terms of the bed-and-breakfast," Mark Modak-Truran said. Take your money, your passion, and your degree, and do something GOOD for our city! In the meantime, Sophia's Restaurant at the Inn will remain "in full operation," Sharp said. Opinion forums lead to passionate feelings. Pick any house on that street and tell me the residents have never come out of their PRIVATE home after a drink or two and driven. There are bigger issues in Jackson to fight against (or stand up for) Mr. Truran. ;-) Hell, there's more traffic there for a wedding than any given day of the restaurant. www.fairviewinn.com, Greater Jackson Chamber Partnership
http://www.clarionledger.com/article/20090903/NEWS/909030352/Court-ruling-may-close-restaurant
My suggestion here is not to take sides too easily.
The Plaintiffs' comments in this article made my argument. They started being more neighborly after that. i didn't see litter, illegally parked cars, or anything else that was out of the ordinary or disruptive. If this was a case of spot-zoning, spot-zoning is too dangerous from a civil rights perspective because it would allow neighbors to define a business with black clientele as "disruptive" and a business with white clientele as not in a way that would lead to redlining. it doesn't look to me that they feel too bad, though, or else they wouldn't continue to push this. And it's in a position to be a big disruption if the owners do not run it well (which it sounds like the current ones do). Otherwise, as I've said, I'm neutral. It's spot-zoning, and spot-zoning is an invitation to redlining. This AM I emailed the pic of the hotel that was in the clarion to several of these readers. Sadly, I don't think this issue is really about NIMBYism*; I think it's pretty straightforward a law problem. Fairview is mentioned in the book as are several Jackson landmarks.I'm kinda an ambassador for Jackson now (always was though). js = d.createElement(s); js.id = id;
In sum, bloggers may not like our position, and that I can respect. Four neighbors of the Inn, Anita and Mark Modak-Truran, and Daniel and Katherine Baker, then sued the city, arguing that the changes were "spot zoning" aimed at changing zoning rules for a single property, without regard to the surrounding community. On the other hand, I also sympathize with the neighbors and can very well imagine times when having a commercial establishment across the street wouldn't be welcome. "I always put up my colleagues from other universities there when they're coming into town. I have never eaten at the restaraunt there but have attended a few functions and it seems the parking for guests is relatively unobtrusive. t doesn't look to me that they feel too bad, though, or else they wouldn't continue to push this. Jackson went way too many years without ever talking about Simmons' past. The Fairview has been very gracious to an organization of which I am a member, which is why I am sticking up for it. yes, s/he and i see this from the same point of view, but i don't see any contentious behavior. The homely atmosphere of this place allows customers to relax after a hard working day. Peter and Tamar Sharp bought the Inn from the Simmonses in August 2006. I have nothing against the Sharps. It's petty, and it's beneath most of you. I understand frame of reference, but c'mon, that has NOTHING to do with this or the Sharps. True on the wedding issues.
Kick back and view the menu online for this place. I don't normally blog, but I respect the way you handle your blog and keep it to the issues. If it can't be, then no, spot-zoning is just as wrong if the owners are nice and the food is good and the neighbors don't mind. i sure hope they get to stick around. Engage the home-owners is some type of creative venture where there is a Win-Win situation for everyone. It's not the CL boards, thank goodness, but nevertheless. The courts should determine whether or not zoning exemptions are allowed, and give instructions on whether what is needed is a zoning change. But I can't speak to it recently either way. 3. OK behave. I also understand that the law is not on the side of the defendants and it should not be. Leave them the [emailprotected]*k alone, Truran, and stop playing all innocent in this. As someone who used to live across and just down the street from it, I was very relieved when it was sold. Someone had to pay for the appeal; someone had to write all the appellate briefs; someone had to go argue the appeal in front of the Supreme Court panel. period. It's not like some learned Judge simply reviewed the trial court transcript and decided to reverse and render the decision in favor of the plaintiffs. The future: We, of course, are always available to discuss solutions for the future and to see if there is a way to work out the issues. On Thursday, the high court ruled 6-3 that a 2004 city zoning amendment allowing a public restaurant at the inn constituted "spot zoning" and was thus illegal. And we often wouldn't be able to park in front of our own house due to traffic there, and that was before the restaurant. I did, however, write about it when it seemed no one else was talking about it, and as a result some people learned about it who didn't seem to know, or at least so they said. And I sure don't envy them the chore of dealing with the karma they inherited. It's not a factory in the middle of Belhaven. and you know there are many who would, even though it has NOTHING to do with the current issue. I doubt the compromise involves a special exemption. We have a nice little house in Madison- the only thing that is wrong with it is that you have to drive to dine out, drive to go to the store or pharmacy, even have to drive somewhere else if you want to take a walk- no sidewalks and no enforced leash laws Jackson Free Press, Inc. Visit Website
That's what the Mississippi Court has held. "Many of those people did not know it was the same Simmons who ran the Citizens Councils of America, which helped lead boycotts on any business that didn't go along with segregation. My parents have stayed at the inn countless times and love it.
And the courts and city need to get it sorted out so it ends, and everyone knows what the rules are going forward. In any case, it looks like Margaret Barrett-Simon will push to pass appropriate ordinances to allow the continued operation of the Fairview.
Actually, another poster made the statement and I was was trying to defend him. You can't do that without it being substantiated.
I think part of our disagreement, Tom and ladd, is that I don't see this as a "legal" issue per se. they are trying to shut down the restaurant. Updated Aug. 17 to correct the Fairview Inn's street. That doesn't mean that history is tied to the Sharp family, of course. As for events there, it always depended on the crowd itself. I know one of the plaintiff couples, and they are good people. 125 S. Congress St. #1324 * Jackson, MS * 39201, Luckett, DuPree Push Education, Business Help. Point of inquiry, Donna: are you claiming that supporters of the Fairview actually contacted you personally, told you that you were the first person to tell them about Bill Simmons' political past, and that those people then were conflicted over your information? That's it exactly, GLewis. "The lawyers are meeting tomorrow, but I think they will do that.". 1. Thus, please do not try to continue this side argument, as future posts will be deleted without comment. Nestled in the Belhaven District of Jackson, Peter & Tamar Sharp invite you to experience Sophias Restaurant. It's fine to mention Simmons, but why not add more information about the Sharps, who are wonderful folks. QB, I'm not saying you can't have the restaurant there. If you answer in the affirmative, I would like to hear a little more about that if you are willing to share. i will say this, though: with the HUGE turnout they had Saturday (and that isn't exaggeration to say), traffic was NOT an issue AT ALL. It is like having an extra kitchen and dining room that you never have to clean up for those days that you don't feel like it! The Ledger and the local tablogs have little beyond personal attacks in their comments, so go there if that's what you're into. Most of the plaintiffs are attorneys at large law firms and represented themselves. Indeed, all of zoning law is based on protecting the residential zones. Live with them. Sorry. Add Business | Privacy Policy | Return/Refund Policy | About PartyCache Hospitality Web Solutions, About PartyCache Hospitality Web Solutions.
Pretty disappointing that you can't have a lightly used restaurant just feet from the North State Street commercial corridor. (function(d, s, id) {
The Plaintiffs in this case aren't some crusaders of justice who will file suit to enforce zoning laws and prohibit spot zoning. If your travels take near Jackson Ms. this is the place to stay. They purchased the inn knowing that there was litigation pending. "We knew the suit was pending, but we didn't think that it was going to go this way," Sharp said. This filing shows their true colors, that they want to shut down this "high density commercial use." After a long working week, you can taste great coffee.
But these days under new owns, I have no emotion attached in any direction. The law does, however, and that's the issue here. That's not right. Chef Gary Hawkins selects fresh, regional ingredients and prepares them with his own eclectic flair, emphasizing local fresh seafood.
It's number three on the NYT best seller today. They have built the Fairview into something that all Jacksonians can be proud of. There are two solutions to this problem: 1. but let's look at who is playing both sides here. When we shared that information then, it gave pause to many of the people who were trying to get them a special permit. Recently opened, the Library Lounge offers small plates, micro brews, wine flights, and craft cocktails in a relaxing environment themed around Mississippi's literary legends. So don't use this site for that kind of trash. You're going to have to trust me on this one and heed my warning to continue posting on this site. It's fine to mention Simmons, but why not add more information about the Sharps, who are wonderful folks. But I have a sneaking suspicion that a black-owned restaurant with a predominantly black, working-class clientele would not be allowed by the larger neighborhood community to operate in the same location as the Fairview Inn, and that's what's wrong with spot-zoning. they may have had beef with simons (could they have, because of his involvements with that group you mention him a part of?) I'll tell you why if you respond to my inquiry. There aren't too many places in Jackson that have that same feature- I would think that it would be something that you would embrace. Adjacent to our library, this private room is perfect for business meetings and family celebrations.