Tommy’s BBQ provides special service

VICKSBURG, Miss. (VDN) — Don’t let the smoke rising from the pits fool you, the owners of Tommy’s BBQ have a clear mission in mind. 

With a heart full of community spirit and bellies full of wood-smoked barbecue meats, co-owners Tommy Hughes and Eli Perez are on a mission to provide a wholesome work environment for individuals with various abilities and disabilities. 

Perez worked in education specifically with students who had special needs for over twenty years before moving to Vicksburg to help open Tommy’s BBQ located at 1540 US 61.

Hughes worked as a Bakery Director with Cosco and travelled the United States until the COVID-19 pandemic stopped travel and forced him into a cubical. He retired, and the pair relocated back to Hughes’ home in the River City. 

“My family has been on Drummand Street for four generations and in Vicksburg for about six generations,” said Hughes.

“Tommy’s dream was to just open a little hole in the wall place and serve West Texas style barbecue,” said Perez. 

The two men combined their history and passions to open Tommy’s BBQ in March of 2023, but before they had even opened the doors they were approached by Ky Lindemann, 23, seeking a job.

“His father told us he had special needs and just asked if he could do little things around the place like picking up trash,” Perez explained. 

Lindemann ended up doing a little bit more. He’s now an assistant manager and helps maintain the restaurant’s giant smokers. 

“I’m excited to be working here,” said Lindemann, a lifelong resident of Vicksburg. “My favorite part is getting to try all the food.”

When asked what he thought was his strongest contribution to the restaurant, Lindemann had a ready reply. 

“I’m reliable and very patient,” he said. 

General Manager Jay Young, 34, also of Vicksburg, said he has had an awakening since beginning work at Tommy’s. 

“Its great to see how much people on the spectrum can do. They can overcome the stigma of just being in the house all the time,” Young said. “Working with these people isn’t a drawback. They deserve a place in this world and are dependable.”

Anyone walking in the front door of Tommy’s is likely to be greeted by 19-year old Cannon Cooley, who according to Hughes has never met a stranger.

“Hey guys! Welcome to Tommy’s,” says Cooley any time the door opens.

Cooley began working at Tommy’s in April. 

“This is my first job,” said Cooley. “My favorite part is meeting new people especially other people on the spectrum like I am.” 

Cooley is responsible for making twinkies, pecan balls, and other delectable desserts at the restaurant. 

While enthusiasm about meeting new people is at the top of Cooley’s list, other employees at Tommy’s are just happy to have a place to work. 

Daniel McDonald, 19, began working at the barbecue joint last month. He helps make desserts and other side dishes. 

“I really like learning new ways of making food,” said McDonald. 

When asked about his favorite aspect of the job, McDonald replied, “Honestly? Getting paid.” 

Hughes and Perez set out on a mission to serve the community with savory smoked meats, but have created a culture of acceptance and pride for individuals with special needs. 

“Everyone has strengths and weaknesses. Some of these young people are so much better sticking to a schedule than I am,” said Hughes. “Where as I might not feel like doing something on one day and want to push it off until later, they don’t do that. They do things that I just can’t do.”

“We get to watch them blossom,” said Perez. “When they first come in and start working some of them barely lift their eyes from the ground. Now they have confidence, and it shows.”

As Perez finished speaking Cooley’s voice rang out from the back corner of the restaurant.

“Thanks for coming to Tommy’s! Have a great day!”

Tommy’s BBQ is open seven days a week from 11 a.m. until 7 p.m.