Jackson Free Press

[Verbatim] Jackson Lands Two National Softball Tournaments. The city of Jackson's Department of Parks and Recreation attended the National American Softball Association's annual meeting in Mobile, Alabama this month and came home with two national tournaments.

Parks and Recreation Director, Ramie Ford, stated that the city of Jackson will be host to the two national tournaments in 2006. The tournaments awarded to the city of Jackson were the "Men's Class ‘A' Slow-Pitch Tournament" and the "Ladies 35 and Older Masters Tournament."

Hosting national tournaments is nothing new to Jackson. In 2001, Jackson hosted the "Men's National Church Tournament" and in 2005, Jackson will host the "Men's Masters 35 and Older Tournament."

"These tournaments will bring a great deal of exposure to Jackson's parks and recreational facilities," said Ford (who also serves as president of the Mississippi Recreation and Parks Association (MRPA). "There will also be a significant economic impact to our city as well."

Keys To Click It Campaign

Mayor Johnson is working tirelessly to increase safety belt use in Jackson. Through the National Black Mayors' Initiative, a new campaign, KEYS to click it, is designed to remind all Jackson residents to buckle up each time they get into a vehicle. KEYS or Keep Employing Your Safety Belt, also targets African Americans aged 16-34. In Mississippi, African Americans between the ages of 16-34 die in car crashes more than any other population group. In 2002, Mississippi had 885 car and truck fatalities, and about 75 percent were not wearing seat belts; and 74 percent of the 173 children and teens were not wearing seat belts. For more information or alarming statistics, please call the Mayor's Seat Belt Coalition Coordinator, Harriett Johnson at 960-1084.

JATRAN Recognized

During the recent 28th Mississippi Public Transit Association's annual conference, JATRAN, the city's public transportation system, received the Presidential Service Award. The award was presented to JATRAN in appreciation for leadership, commitment, dedication, loyal support and outstanding service to public transportation.

Know Any Seniors Who Want A Job?

The Department of Human and Cultural Services' Senior AIDES Program encourages you to inform citizens 55 or older who are seeking part-time or full-time work to contact the Senior AIDES Program at 960-0335. Ask for Mr. Brown, Project Director or Mr. Cole, Personnel Representative.

Check Out "Living With Art" At Smith Robertson Museum

Check out a truly eclectic array of artistic pieces at Smith Robertson Museum in the "Living with Art" exhibit. Collector Alitash Kebede is happy to share her private collection amassed over decades. The 79 pieces featuring 39 of the country's most prominent African American artists of the twentieth century are truly remarkable. The exhibition is comprised of contemporary and modern pieces. Some of the well known artists include, Jacob Lawrence and Romare Bearden of the Harlem Renaissance and Richmond Barthe of the Works Progress Association (WPA). The exhibit ends November 29th so don't miss out. Call 601-960-1457 for more information.