Wednesday, December 31
Melton On Trial, Again
Mayor Frank Melton's second trial for the Aug. 26, 2006, demolition of an occupied duplex at 1305 Ridgeway St. will allow him less room to maneuver than his first. Melton …
Frank Melton
Melton's Complicated History with Maurice Warner
One of Mayor Frank Melton's favorite mentees was murdered on Christmas Day. The JFP explores the mayor's history with Maurice Warner.
The Trial That Wouldn't Start
In the week leading up to Mayor Frank Melton's federal trial, the mayor's wavering health has become a factor in the possible postponement of his trial. U.S. District Judge Dan …
Of Melton's Health and 'Failures'
Jackson Mayor Frank Melton called his administration's work on lowering the crime rate in the city a "failure" twice during a Dec. 30 press conference, but followed up each confession …
The Best In Sports In 7 Days
College football, New Year's Day offers a massive buffet of tasty bowl matchups. Here are three of the best: South Carolina vs. Iowa in the Outback Bowl (10 a.m., ESPN); …
A Long, Long Road
"Donna, you know what? I run Jackson," declared Mayor Frank Melton, scrunching his face up into one of his trademark snickers that are cute and creepy at the same time. …
Clinton and Palin Encourage Women Politicos
Women believe that Sen. Hillary Clinton and Gov. Sarah Palin crashed a few glass ceilings in the Nov. 4 general elections. Despite the media treating them unfairly, concentrating far too …
Resolutions that Work
With every New Year, there are some resolutions that predictably fall flat by Valentine's Day, if not a several weeks sooner. Topping the discard list: Lose weight and exercise more.
Judge: Melton Trial Postponed Until Feb. 2, 2009
Over the objection of federal prosecutors, Judge Dan Jordan has announced that the trial of Mayor Frank Melton and bodyguard Michael Recio has been postponed until Feb. 2, 2009 due …
Bar Association Cries Foul
The Magnolia Bar agrees that Assistant District Attorney Timothy Jones lied to Circuit Judge Dale Harkey in order to remove a black juror, Chauncey Thompson, and facilitate a guilty plea …
[Stiggers] High Hopes in 2009
Chef Fat Meat: "Despite all the terrible things that poor and middle-class folks have suffered throughhome foreclosures, job layoffs, natural disasters, loss of medical benefits and moreit's time to lift …
No Rest For the Weary
Benjamin Franklin once said that without continual growth and progress, such words as "improvement," "achievement" and "success" have no meaning. This statement, true in the 18th century, remains so in …
[Johnson] Hear No Evil
More than two years after Mayor Frank Melton and police bodyguard Michael Recio destroyed a duplex on Ridgeway Street, they may finally answer for their crimes in federal court.
Jacksonian
Sanford Knott
Sanford Knott doesn't sound like a typical Jacksonian. A childhood hearing problem kept him from speaking clearly until he was in junior high school.
Art
C. Liegh McInnis: Jackson's Renaissance Man
As a child growing up in the Delta, Clarksdale native C. Liegh McInnis began reading to counter the small-town blues. Since leaving to attend Jackson State Universitywhere he is now …
Saltimbanco
• Cirque du Soleil• Mississippi Gulf Coast Coliseum, Biloxi• Tickets $40-$95; $32-$76 children
Laughter, the Best Medicine
During a recent visit to the East Coast with friends, I began to have painful stomach cramps. My friend offered me a therapeutic hot-water bottle, which I placed on my …
Cover
‘The Mayor Happened'
The Jackson Free Press got an anonymous call about the mayor of Jackson tearing down a house with sledgehammers in late August 2006.
Melton Timeline
July 4, 2005 New Mayor Frank Melton was sworn in at City Hall. In his speech, he promised that any young person who wanted one could have a job …
Lumumba Seeks Ward 2 Slot
Jackson attorney Chokwe Lumumba announced his candidacy for Ward 2 Councilman Monday.
2008 In Three Words
Here are some examples: Glad it's over. Barack Hussein Obama. Peace, joy, hope. Need some money.
Whatcha got?
Tuesday, December 30
BREAKING: Judge Won't Rule on Melton Health Today
Full JFP Melton Archive/Blog
District Court Judge Dan Jordan's office has confirmed that he will not rule on Mayor Frank Melton's ability to stand trial next week until Wednesday morning. According to an order, …
Melton Admits 'Failure' on Crime Issue
Download audio of Melton press conference on 12.30.08 (.wav, 15.42MB)
Monday, December 29
The GOP's 'Barack the Magic Negro' Flap
As if the Republican Party didn't need something else to divide it; the reaction to this will go a long way toward separting the wheat from the chaff. CBS News:
UPDATED: Judge to Rule on Mayor's Health Today; Melton Holds Press Conference
The health of Jackson Mayor Frank Melton is having a decided impact on the trial over his role in the 2006 illegal demolition of a home on Ridgeway Street. U.S. …
Sunday, December 28
Ronnie Agnew: Clarion-Ledger ‘Reducing News Space,' Sections
In his column today, Clarion-Ledger Executive Editor Ronnie Editor announced major changes in the statewide, Gannett-owned newspaper starting tomorrow, including shrinking news "hole" (space for coverage), dropping the TV supplement …
Saturday, December 27
Long-time Melton Mentee Killed
I returned to Jackson today to the staggering news that Maurice Warner was murdered on Christmas Day. Warner has been very close to Mayor Frank Melton for many years. I …
Chokwe Lumumba to Run for McLemore Council Seat
[Verbatim statement] Friday, December 26, 2008, --- Jackson, MS - The Committee to Elect Chokwe Lumumba will hold a press conference on Monday, December 29, 2008 at 10AM at the …
Wednesday, December 24
Party Like It's 2009
Yes, it's "amateur night" out there.
Yes, it's "amateur night" out there. So if you're looking to spend it safely at home, with your own New Year's Eve party for friends and loved ones, check out …
The Best In Sports In 7 Days
NBA basketball, New Orleans at Orlando (11 a.m., Ch. 16) and Boston at L.A. Lakers (4 p.m., Ch. 16): It's Christmas, so the NBA wants you to start paying attention …
Make Jackson Weird
I grew up a Dallas Cowboys fan, and one of the biggest adjustments to rooting for my now-beloved Saints is to learn to keep hope alive for a team that …
Third World Mississippi
New housing construction will boost Mississippi's lagging economy, says Housing Mississippi, an alliance of low-income housing advocacy groups. The organization plans to stimulate building projects through a housing trust fund …
Stop Spreading Powers
Secretary of State Delbert Hosemann has approached the Senate Elections Committee asking for a statute that would allow his office to subpoena records and evidence relating to state or local …
[Stiggers] Christmas in the Ghetto
Bart Starrchild: "This is your token Caucasian announcer broadcasting live from the Funky Ghetto Mall. I'm here for the premiere of the Ghetto Science Team's Community Christmas Parade titled 'A …
[Kamikaze] Moving On to New Things
I hate moving! If I had to make a list of my least desirable things to do, moving would be just above being held hostage in a Cambodian prison camp …
Coolidge Ball: For The Love Of The Game
While Ole Miss men's basketball coach Andy Kennedy has been making headlines for his alleged inappropriate conduct last week in Cincinnati, his behavior hopefully will not cast a shadow over …
Jacksonian
Paul Lacoste
When he showed up at training camp for the British Columbia Lions of the Canadian Football League in 1999, Paul Lacoste was considered a mere "camp body," not a serious …
College Bowl Preview
Among the many sins of Bowl Championship Series is the fact that the BCS renders all but one bowl game meaningless, unless you have a rooting interest in one of …
Resolved: A Toxin-Free 2009
Everyone has a start on their New Year's resolutions, right? A lot of folks will be adding "Be More Green" to their lists this year, and here's a corollary to …
Cover
2009 College Hoops Preview
Before this college basketball season began, several national publications had projected Jackson State and Ole Miss as NCAA Tournament teams.
Manna from Heaven
When I was sick and had a fever as a kid, my mom didn't let me eat solid foods. I could have broth and drink juice, water or tea, but …
'Fancy Fantastic Knots'
The members of Jackson-based punk-pop band At Cliffs End know how to go through vans. In the less than two years since the band formed and began touring, the group …
[Herman's Picks] Vol. 7, No. 15
The New Year brings reason to cheer in the capital city. The historic music institution George Street Grocery pre-dates Hal & Mal's as one of the best spaces in town …
Text Message Scam Warning
(verbatim from the attorney general's office)
Jackson, MS–A scam text message has apparently been circulating that targets area credit union members, announced Attorney General Jim Hood today.
Tuesday, December 23
A Mortgage Crisis of Bush's Making
The New York Times had the must-read story of the month Sunday, dissecting how the policies of Bush and friends created the deep mortgage crisis we're facing today:
Genesis Food Bank Giving Away Turkeys NOW
Attention all locals, The Genesis Food Bank located at 435 Hiawatha Street near Gallatin Street, has 3 truckloads of 20-pound turkeys and is giving them away to people in need …
City Defaults on $500,000 Commitment, Developer Says
Developer Mike Peters filed a breach of contract complaint in Hinds County Circuit Court last March, claiming the city stiffed him out of $500,000 in public grants for the $7 …
Entergy Caught with Hand in Louisiana Cookie Jar
[Verbatim, December 23, 2008] Jackson, MS--Attorney General Jim Hood announced today that the Louisiana Public Service Commission (LPSC) has found an Entergy affiliate guilty of the same illegal conduct that …
Monday, December 22
City Loses $240,000
The legal collapse of a Mississippi auctioneer could cost the city of Jackson almost a quarter of a million dollars. Durham Auctions, near Brooklyn Miss., wrote two bad checks to …
Sunday, December 21
College Football: USM Wins New Orleans Bowl
Southern Miss defeats Troy, 30-27, in overtime in the New Orleans Bowl.
Saturday, December 20
College Basketball: Ole Miss Coach Strikes Back
Memo to self: The next time you're in Cincinnati, take a bus.
Ole Miss basketball coach Andy Kennedy filed suit Friday against a Cincinnati cab driver who accused him of assault and a parking valet who says he saw the incident.
Sports
NFL: The Willis Way
Phil Collins?
How does San Francisco 49ers linebacker Patrick Willis prepare for an afternoon of controlled violence, NFL style?
Friday, December 19
Industry Denies High-Fructose Corn Syrup Unhealthy
The president of the Corn Refiners Association sent an e-mail to JFP contributing writer Brandi Herrera Phrem about her story "Healthy Holiday Eating," stating that "the suggestion that high fructose …
UPDATED: Hosemann Seeks More Power
Secretary of State Delbert Hosemann asked the Legislature for subpoena power last week to make it easier for him to purge the state's voter rolls. Hosemann suggested to the Senate …
Bush Sidesteps Senate, Approves Auto Bailout
President Bush approved a $17.4 billion loan for General Motors and Chrysler today, after Senate Republicans blocked passage of a bailout bill from Congress. The money will come out of …
[Wicker] Adoption Provides Children With Loving Home
The holidays are a time for coming together with family. This holiday season, because of the gift of adoption, 330 children in Mississippi will be able to celebrate with a …
Thursday, December 18
College Basketball: Update, Ole Miss AD Backs Kennedy
Ole Miss coach Andy Kennedy will coach the Rebels in their game Thursday (8 p.m., ESPN) against Cincinnati, despite his arrest Thursday morning. Kennedy was charged with punching a taxi …
Gift for the History Buff
If you're looking for a last-minute gift for your favorite history buff, "Chimneyville" is just the thing. Written by Mississippi historian H. Grady Howell, Jr., the book is a veritable …
George Street Once Again
Locals Jason and Shannon Cockrell, owners of Sam's Lounge, are the proud new owners of 416 George Street. They've been renovating the circa 1910 building, which once housed the George …
College Basketball: Ole Miss Coach's Status Uncertain
Ole Miss basketball coach Andy Kennedy's status was uncertain Thursday morning following his arrest in Cincinnati on a charge of assault.
Ole Miss Coach Andy Kennedy Arrested For Assault
The Local 12 CBS affiliate in Cincinnati is reporting that police have arrested University of Mississippi head basketball coach Andy Kennedy on assault charges. Kennedy and the Rebels are in …
An Ole Miss punch to the gut, er, face
It's been a great year for my alma mater. With a presidential debate in September, an 8-4 football team heading into a prestigious bowl game, and the announcement of our …
Plant a Tree… With Your iPhone
iPhones are amazing. There, I said it. But I was only willing to admit this after I saw a recent application you can purchase for 99 cents that will plant …
Recipe Contest
Do you have a stellar, favorite holiday recipe using organic ingredients? If so, enter it for a chance to win a prize and the Organic Valley Family of Farms will …
Sports
Motorsports: The End of NASCAR?
Doctor S thinks Weintraub makes some good points, but it's a little soon to euthanize NASCAR.
Is it time to pull the plug on NASCAR?
Wednesday, December 17
The Best In Sports In 7 Days
Men's college basketball, SEC/Big East Challenge, Mississippi State at Cincinnati (5:30 p.m., Cincinnati, ESPN2/105.9 FM) and Ole Miss vs. Louisville (8 p.m., Cincinnati, ESPN/97.3 FM): The Bulldogs and Rebels face …
Holiday Gift Guide
The weather outside is frightful, but holiday shopping shouldn't be. Here are some cool gift ideas from local shops. You still have time to grab your list and check it …
Republicans Choose Sides In Bailout
The Jackson NAACP, the Mississippi AFL-CIO and supporting organizations protested Mississippi Republican senators' opposition to a bailout bill for General Motors and Chrysler at the State Capitol on Tuesday.
Langston Suit Fraught with Politics
A state lawsuit against the law firm of disbarred attorneys Joey Langston and Timothy Balducci is uncovering a curious mixture of politics and money, and not all of it surrounds …
Barbour and HUD Under Fire
The Mississippi Conference of the NAACP and the Gulf Coast Fair Housing Center are suing the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for allowing Gov. Haley Barbour to divert …
Crime
New Crime Lab, Please
Attorney General Jim Hood recommended more money for the state crime lab and the Mississippi Medical Examiner's office at a Monday meeting with the House Judiciary Committee.
Who Are The Most Intriguing Jacksonians?
We need your help, guys. It's almost time for the Most Intriguing Jacksonians issue, and we'd like your suggestions. These are the news-makers of 2008--the people who were in the …
Editorial
Southern GOP: We're Over Ideology
The national electoral gains that Democrats have made in the 2006 and 2008 elections are nothing short of historic, and at the expense of a devastated GOP. Those gains even …
Come All Ye Faithful
In his column last week, The Clarion-Ledger's Sid Salter quoted the fifth chapter of Matthew to justify Gov. Haley Barbour diverting federal money away from low-income Katrina re-housing and into …
[Stiggers] Dodging Christmas
Brotha Hustle: "Miss Doodle Mae, spokeswoman, part-time cashier and security guard at Jojo's Discount Dollar Store, is on full-time security duty during the Christmas holiday season. She asked me to …
[Hightower] Good Wages Good For America
Some U.S. senators are real corkers. Take Bob Corker, a Republican from Tennessee. Please.
[Wilson] Santa's New Suit
As my half-completed degree from Reformed Theological Seminary can attest, I have a hearty sense for the true meaning of Christmas, but I'll let some other commentator discuss that.
Jacksonian
Baldev "Bob" Patel
Baldev Patel's parents were farmers from Ahmedabad, Gujarat, in India. But Patel, who is known by friends and colleagues as "Bob," wanted a different lifestyle.
Cover
Radical Faith: The Revolution of John Perkins
Dust shimmers on the gray pickups and egg-crate-grille Chevrolets as tinsel and Christmas lights pierce the dark night.
Culture
The Three Rs
You can easily miss the entrance to Claiborne Park between Provine High School and Voice of Calvary Ministries in West Jackson. The private park is owned by Voice of Calvary …
Art
All That I Can't Leave Behind
Flora, Miss., mixed-media painter (and formerly featured JFP artist-in-residence) Lea Barton, is currently exhibiting a decade's worth of her work. If you've never seen Barton's work, expect to see layered, …
On Stage
Murder Under the Mistletoe
This isn't one of those murder-mystery weekends like on one my favorite episodes of "Saved By the Bell," but these guys know how to keep a crowd guessing and on …
Dish
Charlie Mars: 'More Rhythm Than Rock'
Last week I got a note to call Charlie Mars. He had wanted to drop off some promo CDs of his new album. "Maybe some of you will even like …
Music
Happy Christmas, Jackson
As friends Emily Baker, 28, and Steve Harvey, 26, peruse the lunch menu at High Noon Café, they reminisce about a particular brunch there one month before when the duo …
Wellness
Healthy Holiday Eating
Food is the enemy to many Americans. With the rising number of diabetes, heart disease and obesity cases, we see our very sustenance as cause for medical alarm.
On Stage
Musician's Christmas Ball and Extravaganza
You can't talk about Mississippi blues and jazz without talking about Jesse Robinson. A major player in the local blues scene for the last four decades, Robinson has played with …
Art
[In The Theatres] Bolt
If there are two constant loves in my life, they are dogs and Pixar movies. So really, how could I go wrong with "Bolt"?
Seale's Staying In Jail
JFP Dee-Moore Coverage
Southern Republicans Hold Up Bailout
The Jackson NAACP, the Mississippi AFL-CIO and supporting organizations protested Mississippi Republican senators' opposition to a bailout bill for General Motors and Chrysler at the State Capitol Tuesday. U.S. Senate …
Frank Melton
UPDATED: Ridgeway Tenant Denies Melton's Claim
Evans Welch disputes Mayor Frank Melton's claims that he asked the mayor for help before the 2006 demolition of the duplex he rented. Melton, who faces three felony charges for …
Tuesday, December 16
‘Fall from Grace': Joey Langston Sentenced to 36 Months
Folo has good updates, including his statement:
Obama Picks Ed. Secretary
So much for Ray Mabus or Ronnie Musgrove. Arne Duncan is the President-elect's pick for Secretary of Education. The choice makes sense, as Obama and Duncan were friends in Chicago. …
Advertising = Obesity
Quick: How can the U.S. (and Mississippi) reduce childhood obesity by 18 percent and reverse the current trends? Education? Better food in schools? Nope. It's simpler than that. Just ban …
Monday, December 15
Mattel Settles Lawsuit After Pass From Barbour
Mississippi is one of 38 states that reached a settlement with Mattel Inc. and Fisher-Price Inc. over the companies' unhealthy level of lead in children's toys. An agreement filed today …
Sign of the Future? Gannett Detroit Paper 3X Week?
The Wall Street Journal is reporting that the Detroit Free Press, the Gannett-owned daily newspaper in Detroit, Mich., is likely to scale back home delivery to three times a week. …
Mississippi Ad a ‘Misstep'?
Calling marketing an art, not a science, an editorial in yesterday's Sun Herald tells the story of an ad run by the Mississippi Gulf Coast Convention and Visitor's Bureau, attempting …
Barbour Announces New Coast Housing Effort
Under fire for diverting federal funds away from low- and middle-income housing for Katrina survivors, Gov. Haley Barbour today announced a new housing plan for public-sector employees on the Gulf …
Standard Life Purchase Delayed
Jackson attorney and developer David Watkins told the Jackson Free Press today that the national recession and subsequent credit crunch is hitting home again. Capital One, the loan agency funding …
Toyota Plant Up in the Air
I wonder if we get all that tax money back if they decide to jump ship?
The Clarion Ledger reports that the MS Toyota plant - you know the one we all shoved tons of tax money into - will be suspended "until market conditions improve."
URGENT: Good Samaritan Center Needs Help NOW
Please read and do whatever you can do, folks:
[Verbatim] Dear Friends, The economy is hurting donations and Good Samaritan Center is challenged right now. In addition, Christmas is almost here and our social service staff has been busier …
Ways to Give
Not everyone in Jackson experiences a merry and bright holiday season. Here are a couple local charities who need your donations to help those in need.
Hood Requesting More Funding For Crime Lab
Attorney General Jim Hood is recommending budget increases for the state crime lab and the Mississippi Medical Examiner's Office to the House En Banc Judiciary Committee today. The state currently …
LoungeList Photos: Merry Christmas Jackson CD Release (photos: Kip Caven)
Great photos from the Merry Christmas Jackson CD release, which took place Friday evening at Sneaky Beans in Fondren:
When a Lame Duck Has to Duck
President Bush made a surprise trip to Iraq, but he got a surprise of his own when an Iraqi journalist threw his shoes at him during a press conference.
MEMA: Ice Storm Headed to NW Mississippi
See [[Snow & Ice]] on Jackpedia for safety and driving tips.
[Verbatim from MEMA] PEARL – As a blast of Arctic air threatens northwest Mississippi with frigid temperatures and freezing rain, MEMA Executive Director Mike Womack is reminding residents to be …
Sunday, December 14
Sports
College Football: Grambling 41, Jackson State 9
Grambling State defeats Jackson State, 41-9, in the SWAC Championship.
Friday, December 12
Ho, ho, ho! Help the JFP Food & Toy Drive!
All, please remember that the JFP is collecting canned foods (or other non-perishables) for Stewpot and toys for Mississippi Children's Home Services. Also, gently worn or new children's coats are …
What a Tragic Way to Play a Game
Not long after we started the JFP, a man who had worked in the public domain in the state for many years warned me about something: "You'll have all sorts …
[Wicker] Domestic Energy Productions Will Grow Economy
Last week, a study was released regarding the economic and financial benefits of developing our country's vast oil and gas reserves that have been kept off limits for decades. The …
HUD, Barbour Under Fire for Diverting Money from Poor
Mississippi organizations are suing the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for allowing Gov. Haley Barbour to divert nearly $600 million in federal funding away from affordable housing recovery …
[Bounds] Children First Act of 2009 Contains Accountability Measures
State Superintendent of Education
In education, asking even a very simple question leads to a complex answer. For example, if a parent wants to know, "How is my child's school doing?," the principal can …
Thursday, December 11
College Football: Alcorn Fires Coach
Alcorn State has reportedly fired football coach Ernest Jones.
Detroit and Buggy Whips
Back in the days when personal computers, internet use and e-mail was in the process of becoming ubiquitousnot so very long agoI heard a lot of talk about buggy-whips. In …
Millsaps Campus Community Focused On Giving Back
Millsaps College students, faculty and staff have collected toys, gathered food and hosted parties and other events to reach out to others in the community and beyond.
Miss. Reps. Split on Auto Bailout
Mississippi's congressmen are divided on the prospect of a bailout for the domestic auto industry. Reps. Gene Taylor (D) and Bennie Thompson (D) voted for a $14 billion rescue package …
JPS and Hinds Dismissing School Early
Jackpedia.com: How to Drive in Snow and Ice
Wednesday, December 10
College Football: Mullen Is MSU's Man
Dan Mullen will be officially introduced as Mississippi State's new football coach on Thursday. Mullen, 36, becomes the SEC's second-youngest head football coach. MSU will introduce him in a series …
Will Obama Help Mississippi?
Even though he is a "blue" president and Mississippi is a "red" state, local and state politicians are expecting more federal help with municipal money problems now that Barack Obama …
The Best In Sports In 7 Days
NFL football, New Orleans at Chicago (7 p.m., NFL Network/620 AM): The Saints-Bears loser will be out of the playoffs. The forecast: snow and 12 degrees at game time. An …
Human Rights Movement ‘Still Taking Off'
Sixty years after the UN General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, advocates such as Father Jerome Tobin say the fight isn't over, not even after more than …
Winter Arts Preview 2008
While you are out and about celebrating the holidays, take time out to see what's new at in art scene. New exhibit openings, festivals, and music gatherings are here just …
Art For the People
After an exquisite breakfast of fresh fruit and hot flapjacks during our recent honeymoon in Belize, my husband, J.P., and I slowly sipped our glasses of orange juice and walked …
The Game of Monopoly
Mississippi attorney general Jim Hood filed a lawsuit against Entergy Mississippi Inc. last Tuesday, accusing the company of "dishonest practices worthy of ENRON."
Talk
'Si Se Pueda'
Protestors, some of them children, marched on the state Capitol last Thursday, holding signs reading "Working should not be a crime," "Raids tear families apart," and "Si se pueda" ("Yes …
Holiday Gift Guide
There are so many parties to attend in the next couple weeks, and you can't arrive empty-handed. So, along with whatever plate of cheese and bottle of wine you're bringing, …
Editorial
Look at the Whole Immigration Picture
Immigrants and their children sent a loud message last week. About 50 people marched on the capitol, protesting recent raids at a Laurel factory and a new Mississippi law that …
[Stiggers] Who Will Bail Us Out?
Nurse Tootie McBride: "If you work a full-time job, live in a financially challenged neighborhood (aka the ghetto) and want to join a labor union, become a member of the …
[Kamikaze] Battling the Holidays
Living in the greatest country in the world has its obvious advantages, but sometimes it's difficult living with the utter intolerance of some of its citizens. This is most evident …
LoungeList Photos: The Bachelorettes (Photos by Kip Caven)
Despite the storm, plenty of wig-wearin' fans showed up on Millsaps Ave to enjoy a number of girl acts, capped off by The Bachelorettes:
[Queen] A Woman's Worth
My mother and I have been extremely close since my father passed, but it took some time to obtain the relationship we have today. The first couple of years after …
Jacksonian
Beth Kimura
When I arrived at Ballet Magnificat! one afternoon, Beth Kimura and the Omega Company dancers were rehearsing in a back studio lined with mirrors and filled with music.
Art
The Art of Body
If each person had a home-appliance persona, Erin Hayne and Nuno Gonçalves Ferreira would both be space heaters. They radiate warmth.
Culture
Freedom Codes
According to oral legend passed down through generations of African Americans, slaves during the time of the Underground Railroad used an unsuspecting medium as their gateway to freedom: quilts. Slaves …
Culture
Building A Salsa Community
When Sujan Ghimire and his wife, Sarah, founded Salsa Mississippi two years ago, salsa dancing took a while to catch on. "People were still in ballroom dancing most of the …
Bending History
The New Year brings a new play to New Stage Theatre: "Gee's Bend" is the story of a community of black quiltmakersall womenin Gee's Bend, Ala.
[Herman's Pick] Vol. 7, No. 13
It is an annual tradition. Exactly halfway through the holidays, the overwhelming call to escape the family for loud music and hard drink arrives. Not that I don't enjoy the …
College Football: A New Top Dog?
An announcement is expected Wednesday.
Florida offensive coordinator Dan Mullen is expected to be named the new football coach at Mississippi State, ESPN and The Clarion-Ledger is reporting.
The Busy Person's Guide to Saving Time
Who isn't busy this time of year? Between scheduling relatives, parties, caroling, etc., etc., etc. the season can be pretty crazy-making. Leo Babauta over at the Zen Habits blog offers …
Tuesday, December 9
Former Banker Now VP at Highland Village
[Verbatim from Highland Village] Guy Boyll III has been appointed Vice-President of Operations for Highland Village in an announcement today by the retail center. Mr. Boyll has nine years of …
Gannett's ‘Career Builder' Layoff-Tax Break-Gate
Over on the Gannett Blog, Jim Hopkins has The Clarion-Ledger's home office on the defensive after he reported that the company laid off hundreds of Career Builder workers after getting …
Don't Let Holiday Deals Become Holiday Debt
The Consumer Credit Counseling Service of Jackson cautions consumers to avoid impulse purchases this holiday season. [Verbatim from press release.]
Mississippi Loses Bio Lab to Kansas
The Department of Homeland Security selected Manhattan, Kansas, over Flora, Miss., and four other sites for its proposed $451 million Bio and Agro-Defense Facility. The lab, which will focus primarily …
UPDATED: Elected Judges: Battered, Bought ... But Still Better
Pointing out that Gov. Haley Barbour has not appointed one black judge out of 18 judicial appointments to date, two attorneys and a Supreme Court justice agreed at a Saturday …
Act Proposes Stimulus for Gulf Coast
Supporters of a large-scale civic works program for the Gulf Coast are calling U.S. Representatives today, asking them to include H.R. 4048, the Gulf Coast Civic Works Act, in an …
"Cadillac Records"
"CadillacRecords"
"Cadillac Records" tells the story of the rise of Chess Records in Chicago. With a stellar cast of Adrien Brody, Jeffrey Wright, Beyoncé Knowles and Mos Def, the film promises …
Big 3 Bailout Still Contentious
The proposed Congressional bailout of Detroit's Big 3 Automakers is proving to be fraught with landmines of opposing opinion. In today's New York Times, Republican Sen. Mitch McConnell says that …
ON STAGE: "Art and Film Cultural Symposium with Nathan Johnson"
Producer/designer/composer Nathan Johnson will offer insight into technology and structuring creative work in a film and arts symposium at St. Andrew's Center For the Performing Arts Dec. 12 and 13.
ON STAGE: "The Nutcracker"
"The Nutcracker" has enchanted audiences, especially young ones, for years. You can't go wrong with sword fights, dancing sugarplums and life-size mice. Ballet Mississippi presents the ballet at Thalia Mara …
Mississippi GOP Sues for Fair Elections
The Mississippi Republican Party filed suit against the Leflore County Election Commission and Southeast Greenwood poll manager Gail Griggs today for "failure to perform their statutory duties in the November …
What will Michelle Obama wear on Inauguration Day?
WWD.com has a slideshow of inauguration dress sketches from designers such as Isaac Mizrahi, Zac Posen and Diane von Furstenburg. There are sketches for Sasha and Malia as well. Which …
Monday, December 8
Langston Suit Moves Ahead Through Political Thicket
Hinds County Circuit Court Judge Winston Kidd has lifted a motion to stay a politically tinged state lawsuit against disbarred attorneys Joey Langston and Timothy Balducci and the Langston Law …
Barbour Among Governors Getting Suspicious Letters
The Associated Press is reporting that Haley Barbour and five other governorsof Alabama, Michigan, Missouri, Rhode Island and Montanareceived letters containing powder today; tests have found so far that the …
Union Head: Don't ‘Rush to Judgment' Over Fuel Use
Brenda Scott, president of the Mississippi Alliance of State Employees, a workers' union, issued a press release warning the Jackson City Council not to jump to conclusions regarding recent allegations …
COWBOY ROUND UP - Marion Barber's Toughness is Questioned by Team Owner!!!
GET THE "F" OUTTA HERE! If you know me, you know that I am a super Cowboy fan. If you know that, then you know that am a super duper, …
Be a Santa's Helper for Jackson's Kids: Here's How
Remember, you get back from the universe what you give, especially in tough times. This December, help a needy child by donating toys to the Mississippi Children's Home Services. See …
Sports
College Football: Rebels Going To Big D
Ole Miss will play Texas Tech in the Cotton Bowl on Jan. 2.
Bush's New ‘Hood Barred Non-Whites Until 2000
Raw Story is reporting that George and Laura Bush's new neighborhood in Dallas barred non-whites (except servants) until eight years ago:
Patti LaBelle sings her ABCs
A MySpace friend posted this video, and after watching it, the song has been stuck in my head all morning. Check it out:
Sunday, December 7
What will become of Journalism?
Recent bad news among newsprint papers such as the Clarion Ledger (see postings here) and today's announcement of the Tribune Company's bankruptcy filing underscore a tectonic shift in the viability …
Ignorant Fools Pushing Obama Citizenship Rumors
With the country facing problems of epic proportions, dumbass conspiracy theorists who have nothing better to do are pushing the debunked theory that Barack Obama is lying about his U.S. …
LoungeList: JFP Southern Fried Karaoke, Christmas Edition (Photos: Kip Caven)
We had a huge crowd and tons of fun on Friday night for Southern Fried Karaoke...Kip had to leave a little early, so everyone who should have been embarrassed by …
Saturday, December 6
High School Football: Meridian Shocks World
Meridian upsets South Panola 26-20 in overtime in the MHSAA Class 5A championship game.
NFL: Deuce Can Play
A judge blocks the NFL's suspension of Deuce McAllister and four other players for breaking anti-doping rules.
Friday, December 5
Fitness: A Growth Industry
On the heels of yet another piece of bad economic news, here's a bit of brightness: Whether you're just starting out in your career or you're considering a change, take …
Half-Million Jobs Cut in November
The Washington Post is reporting job losses of 533,000 in November, affecting construction, computer makers, auto dealers, clothing stores, banks and insurance companies. Here's a snippet from the story:
Thursday, December 4
LoungeList: March on Capitol 12.04.08 Photos (by Kip Caven)
LoungeList photographer Kip Caven was downtown with M.I.R.A. and others marching in support of immigrants and against recent corporate raids and similar government policies. Here are the photos:
Dear Dog Owners: Your Pets Are in Danger
A little beagle with a blue collar on Arrowhead Drive in Fondren is going to die soon. I hate to be so blunt, but whoever owns that dog is irresponsible, …
Sports
College Football: Iggles Going To Big Easy Bowl
Southern Miss is going to the New Orleans Bowl (Dec. 21, 7 p.m., ESPN2).
Wednesday, December 3
Got Books? Got Gifts!
Who doesn't love a fresh read full of pristine pages begging to get all dirty and dog-eared? Whether to satisfy your mass-market junkie of a brother or cannon-faithful auntie, there …
The Best In Sports In 7 Days
Men's college basketball, UCLA at Texas (8 p.m., ESPN2): The Bruins and Longhorns meet in an intriguing early season matchup.
For Them, the Brave
It used to be that murders of black people didn't matter. They still don't matter enough, but they get taken a lot more seriously than they did back when I …
Jackson's Crime Rate
Jackson's crime rate put Mississippi's capital city at the No. 23 spot of 385 U.S. cities, according to "City Crime Rankings, 2008-2009," released by the CQ Press earlier this month. …
New Court Rethinking Judge Policy
The Mississippi Supreme Court is deliberating a rule change that would force the Hinds County Circuit Court to abandon a case assignment system that two black judges and some black …
Talk
Seale Under Review
The 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has scheduled its en banc review of the James Ford Seale case for the week of May 18.
We-the-Fat
On Tuesday, speakers from the Coalition for a Healthier Mississippi unveiled their plans for the third annual Mississippi Health Awareness Day, scheduled for Jan. 15, 2009.
Gov. Barbour 'Pleased' With President-Elect
Mississippi Gov. Haley Barbour reported today that President-Elect Barack Obama's Tuesday meeting with state governors on addressing the recession was "cordial."
Talking Heads Reflect on Election
U.S. Rep. Bennie Thompson flexed his muscles over the U.S. Senate race, according to politicos, possibly influencing Democratic candidate Ronnie Musgrove's loss to interim Republican Sen. Roger Wicker. Clarion-Ledger columnist …
Fire the Employees Stealing from City
Ward 1 Councilman Jeff Weill summed it up best when he said the city of Jackson had "dropped the ball" on supervising the city's gas cards. According to city council …
[Sue Doh Nem] Hoop in Hard Times
Rev. Cletus: "Welcome to a special radio broadcast titled 'Tithing and the Economy.'"
[Hightower] Repairing Bush's Regulatory Wreckage
You don't hear it outside the Beltway, but there's a constant roar inside Washington, D.C. these days.
[Gregory] The Christmas Miracle
I've always loved the holidays. I like the fall smells in the air, eggnog lattes and almost any dessert spiced with cinnamon. I especially adore the whiskey drinks and how …
Jacksonian
Karen Hearn
Surrounded by stacks of CDs in her office at Mississippi Public Broadcasting, Classical Music Director Karen Hearn looks for the perfect music to play on her radio show tonight. Yesterday …
Use It or Lose It (Your Brain, that is)
We all know that if we exercise our bodies, our muscles and bones will stay strong, right? Did you know that your brain needs exercise, too?
Cover
‘A Brave Man'
It was nearing 11 p.m. as Hank Allen and his cousin, John Horton, drove east along Highway 24. The two young men, 17 and 16 years old, respectively, had attended …
Orley Hood Among Laid-off Clarion-Ledger Staffers
Update: Associated Press is reporting that Orley Hood is among 11 employees laid off today at The Clarion-Ledger, joining 20 unfilled jobs that were eliminated. The Clarion-Ledger has dropped from …
ON STAGE: "A Christmas Carol"
Charles Dickens' classic tale of Scrooge and the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future comes to New Stage Theatre Dec. 4-21. This Christmas favorite is the perfect diversion from …
New Blue
Alt-country pioneers Blue Mountain have been through it all in the nearly two decades since they formed in Oxford, Miss.: changes in lineup, underwhelming management, tough salad days, success and …
[Pass The Mic] You Should Hear What I Hear
My great-grandmother rarely drove a car. On holidays, she would hop on the Greyhound bus in Memphis, and we would go and pick her up from the station in Jackson. …
Living (and Thriving) Gluten-Free
Kristin Hockman just knew something was wrong with her infant daughter, Miriam.
Hood Sues Entergy
Mississippi attorney general Jim Hood lodged another lawsuit against Entergy Mississippi on Tuesday. The attorney general already had a lawsuit against the energy provider in Hinds County Chancery Court to …
Mississippians Get $1 Million in Foreclosure Relief
[Verbatim from Attorney General Jim Hood]Jackson, MS-Mississippi will be included in the national settlement with Countrywide Financial Corporation (CFC) that will allow eligible borrowers to participate in the company's loan …
Countrywide settlement
If you or someone you know has a mortgage with Countrywide, relief could be on the way. {Verbatim from the Attorney General's office}:
College Football: Major Surprise In Conerly
Millsaps quarterback Juan Joseph wins the Conerly Trophy.
Sports
NFL: Deuce Suspended
The NFL has suspended New Orleans Saints running back Deuce McAllister and five other players for four games for doping violations. Is this the end of Deuce's career as a …
Tuesday, December 2
Crisler Garners Big-Name Support for Mayoral Race
A number of notable Jacksonians are throwing their support behind Councilman Marshand Crisler in the upcoming mayoral election. Jackson restaurateur Jeff Goodthe finance director of the current mayor's campaignis hosting …
Feds Fire Back at Melton
In a brief filed Monday, Dec. 1, federal prosecutors argued that the purity of Jackson Mayor Frank Melton's motives has no bearing on his trial for civil-rights violations. Their motion(PDF) …
Not Yet out of the Woods
Following the election of Barack Obama, there seemed to be a great national catharsis - a collective sigh of relief or joy heard 'round the world. The past few weeks …
Ronnie Musgrove for Secretary of Ed?
His name is popping up on at least one list, per Wall Street Journal. (h/t Folo)
WTF, Barbour? You Are in the EXECUTIVE Branch.
Gov. Haley Barbour sent out a press statement yesterday in which he doesn't bother to hide that he plans to work "closely" with two new conservative members of the Mississippi …
Monday, December 1
Dunn Lampton Under Investigation?
Raw Story is reporting that the U.S. Departments of Justice and Treasury may be investigating U.S. Attorney Dunn Lampton:
Recession Declared: Market Down 680 Points
The New York Times is reporting that the rumors of a recession are true:
City Employees Stealing Gas?
The Jackson City Council's budget committee will meet today at 1 p.m. to discuss reports of 945 city employees allegedly misusing city gas cards a total of 9,288 times during …
Help Jim Hill's School Newspaper Get Going–DONE!
All, our good friend Emily Braden needs to raise $448 in five days to get this matching grant from the Gates Foundation to help her get her journalism program going …
Secret of Happiness Revealed!
Harvard psychologist and author of "Stumbling on Happiness," Dan Gilbert espouses that the secret of happiness is contained in these four tips:
