Former coroner revitalizes love for photography
Published 8:29 am Wednesday, March 15, 2023
The Prentiss Headlight—Jimmy Slater recently won first place in the Landscape Division of the Hattiesburg Arts Council Amateur Photo Contest for this photo.
The Prentiss Headlight—Slater Photography
The Prentiss Headlight—Slater Photography
The Prentiss Headlight—Slater Photography
The Prentiss Headlight—Slater Photography
The Prentiss Headlight—Slater Photography
Jimmy Slater of Red House recently won first place in the Landscape Division of the Hattiesburg Arts Council Amateur Photo Contest.
During the winter of 1971-1972 Slater was attached to a Marine helicopter squadron aboard the USS Inchon. “My ‘point and shoot’ at the ready,” he said.
One day while walking by the ship’s store he spotted a newer model camera, an SLR with the ability to manipulate images by setting the aperture and shutter speed. Something his instant camera couldn’t do. “Having captured southern Europe with my instant camera, I was eager to put this exciting new camera to work. I was hooked!”
Slater continued taking pictures throughout his tour of duty and returned to Mississippi and reentered Mississippi College.
In 1975 he moved to California and took a job with the Criminal Division of the IRS.” It turned out that I was the most experienced photographer in my group, so I became the designated photographer when we executed warrants.”
Over the years he had opportunities to travel the United States, New Zealand and Australia, always carrying his camera with him.
He has taken several photography classes over the years, but is mostly self- taught.
Slater likes to shoot in black and white and his favorite subjects are landscapes and abstract images. “So, if you see me wandering around Jefferson Davis County with my camera that’s probably what I’m doing.”
Slater served two terms as Coroner for Jefferson Davis County. Now that he is fully retired he is pursuing his hobby full-time. “I was humbled to be awarded my first blue ribbon in the Hattiesburg Arts Council Amateur Photography show this year.” You can view his photos on his website at www.slaterflatsfineart.com.
The purpose of the Summit is to bring city officials and youth together to share their experiences of their programs and the impact made on the community. In addition, it establishes a forum where youth can interact and discuss issues and concerns that are important to them. As a result, the Summit has been organized to promote a fun environment for youth and city officials to learn and network with each other.
“The Summit is a great opportunity to network with other kids and officials with informative classes” said Bassfield Mayor Angie Ladner. Ladner says this was a great group and they are eager to do more programs and activities in the community.
“The kids are our future and we plan on investing in them as much as we can. We definitely have some future leaders that will made a huge impact in life.”
Youth in attendance were Zarria Adams, Chrystiona Magee, Ja’Mya Reese, Caycee Wilson, Ta’Lyric Bryant, Kamora Hawthorn, Ja’Miracle Walker, Morgan Barnes, Antwone Peters, Tyson McLaurin, Kori Dotson, Tyla Johnson, Colby Morgan, Kameron Brown and Eric Bridges.
“I’m glad they have the opportunity to experience campuses around the state and be able to meet other students from all corners of the state looking to be a difference in their communities as well,” said Prentiss Mayor Charley Dumas.
Donations for the trip were given by the JDCHS Band Director and Tom Moore with MGO. JDC Economic Development Director Gary Bass designed and donated matching hoodies for the group to wear and Kim Shorts Rhodes and Harold Rhodes for provided transportation.
