SIDETRACKS SPORTS BAR OPENS IN JACKSON

Sidetracks Sports Bar and Restaurant has opened at 252 E. Jackson Blvd., at the site of the St. Louis Iron Mountain and Southern Railway.

Owner Donnie Harris said, "Sidetracks is conducive to what Jackson doesn't have. It combines a family-like atmosphere with great food, sports and fun.

Kevin Ammon, formerly the owner of "Pokey's Pub and Grill," joined the staff as general manager, and Chad Henson is the assistant manager.

The interior of Sidetracks is surrounded with sports memorabilia and photographs. Wall space is reserved for photos of local athletes entitled "Jackson Wall of Fame."

The restaurant will pay $100 to the best photo entry, which will be announced in the coming weeks. Photo entries are being accepted from any sport over the past 40 years.

The menu offers award-winning ribs and specializes in large portions. The dinner menu includes 8-ounce and 16-ounce strip steaks, surf and turf, and catfish the last Friday of the month.

The interior seats up to 150 people and has a new dance floor, 12 televisions including a large screen and a game room.

The outside offers a large deck that seats another 40 to 60 people.

Catering is available for up to 1,000 people . A sound system with karoake is available for private parties.

Happy hour, with daily specials, is from 4 to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Sidetracks is open from 11 a.m. till midnight, Sunday through Tuesday, and 11 a.m. till 1:30 a.m. Wednesdays through Saturdays.

Karoake is offered Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, with a disc jockey spinning music on Wednesday and Friday evenings.

Wednesday is senior citizen discount day.

Harris said, "Sidetracks will be hosting many special events, such as indoor concerts, volleyball and dart leagues."

He said, "We have assembled a fine group of employees, and positions are still available."

Interested people should apply in person.

For information about the photo contest, catering or upcoming events, call Kevin or Chad at 243-8529.