Friday, February 27
Whitlow to Announce Candidacy
Rick Whitlow, former sports director and anchor at WJTV, will formerly announce his intention to run for mayor of Jackson tonight.
Krugman: Obama's Budget Is 'Very, Very Good'
Nobel Prize-winning economist Paul Krugman writes in his New York Times column that President Obama is taking the country in the right direction in his new budget:
15 Life-changing Albums
After Facebook's viral "25 things" explosion, I thought I'd take a crack at the"15 albums that changed my life." Let me know what you think.
My Uncle, The Artist
When people ask if I'm related to painter Andrew Bucci, I answer proudly, "Yes, he's my uncle!" It's difficult to hide my exuberance. He's a phenomenal human being and artist, …
Baggy pants are out! Men's butts are back!
At least so sez The New York Times. Can't say I mind this trend.
Mississippi's Gain is Michigan's Loss
Gov. Haley Barbour announced yesterday that United Chair, owned by Haworth, Inc. of Holland, Mich., is adding 125 jobs at its Bruce, Miss., location. The addition of jobs in north …
Sports
Friday's Starting Five
Sandra Bullock to star in Michael Oher biopic. JPS rules. ... Ole Miss is oversigning machine. It will be a busy weekend of college and high school basketball.
Thursday, February 26
Federal Stimulus: ‘We Need to be Ready'
The stimulus is coming, and it's bringing big money. The Committee on Performance Evaluation and Expenditure Review told the Mississippi House Ways and Means Committee that the economic impact of …
BREAKING: Mayor Frank Melton Running for Re-election
In an interview in City Hall today, Mayor Frank Melton broke the news to the Jackson Free Press that he is going to run for re-election as mayor of Jackson. …
Bluntson Collapsed at Groundbreaking
Jackson Mayor Frank Melton told the Jackson Free Press that city Councilman Frank Bluntson, Ward 4, collapsed during a groundbreaking this morning.
Is the Federal Budget a Moral Issue?
In my Jackson Free Press column of Feb. 18, "It Starts at Home," I wrote about how the nation's reprioritizing for prosperity needs to begin in our own back yard. …
Meet Jackson's Democratic Mayoral Candidates
[verbatim] On Saturday, February 28, 2009, Young Democrats of Mississippi (YDMS) will host a candidate forum for all Democratic mayoral candidates in Jackson. The forum will be at 1:00 p.m. …
FEMA Extends Housing Deadline
March 1 was to be the deadline when victims of Hurricane Katrina had to leave the temporary housing provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency. After nearly five years, some …
Mississippi Gambling Recession-Proof?
Casino gambling revenue in Mississippi exceeded $221 million in January, reports Forbes.com, an increase of 8 percent over December, though statewide revenues were down $3 million over January 2008.
Sports
Thursday's Starting Five
The highlights: Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame celebrates Black History Month. ... State and Ole Miss lose on the road. ... JPS day at the MHSAA State Tournament.
Wednesday, February 25
Barbour's Ambitious Posturing
Gov. Haley Barbour has been a vociferous opponent of the Obama administration's stimulus package, especially when it comes to accepting the $2.3 billion allocated to Mississippi.
Ledger Admits Guilt on Melton
Last weekend, David Hampton, editorial director of The Clarion-Ledger, wrote what could have been an important first step for the newspaper that did a fair bit to help get Frank …
DOJ Investigation Hits Close to Cochran
A U.S. Department of Justice investigation is creeping closer to Republican Sen. Thad Cochran. The DOJ indicted Ann Copland, Cochran's 29-year legislative aide, for accepting more than $25,000 worth of …
New Homes 'Tested and Passed'
Jackson Mayor Frank Melton stepped away from his federal trial Friday to announce that city inspectors no longer have concerns about infrastructure problems at the Timber Falls and Forest Hills …
Money, Medicaid and ... Money
The House and Senate addressed funding for state agencies last week, passing a number of revenue bills tapping into the state's projected $19 billion bank account. One of them was …
Law on Call
Last summer, Jackson attorneys Tim Porter and Rocky Wilkins came up with the idea for "Law Call," a live call-in show that premiered on WLBT Feb. 7.
Cyrus Webb Back in Business
Brandon resident Cyrus Webb has a knack for botching public events. In 2006, Webbpresident of Conversations Book Club and the Rankin County Arts Alliancepromised many Jackson metro residents an elegant …
Dinosaur Jr. Oxford Tix on Sale now
Get them while they last! Dinosaur Jr. (with Dead Confederate) will perform at Proud Larry's in Oxford on Saturday, April 18!
[Stiggers] Stimulate My Wallet
Smokey Robinson McBride: "In the midst of a financial meltdown, wealthy folk seem very worried about their shrinking funds because broke folk have decided to horde their hard-earned money.
[Hutchinson] Apologize, Mr. Murdoch
Mr. Rupert Murdoch, it's certainly no surprise to you that New York Post editor-in-chief Col Allan would hotly defend the racist Post cartoon comparing President Obama to a chimp.
The Best In Sports In 7 Days
High school basketball: MHSAA Boys and Girls State Tournament (Mississippi Coliseum, Jackson): It's JPS day at the Big House in the boys (Callaway vs. Wayne County, 2:30 p.m., and Jim …
Jacksonian
Pratik Shah
"I have always liked bacteria," Pratik Shah says, laughing. "That makes me look nerdy." But at 28 years old, Shah is no average nerd.
'Live & Learn': Melton Faces the Effects of His Actions
On the first day I showed up to cover the federal trial of Mayor Frank Melton and his ex-bodyguard Michael Recio in downtown Jackson, the mayor sidled up to me …
Cover
The Curious Case Of Frank Melton
The first federal civil-rights trial of Jackson Mayor Frank Melton and his former police bodyguard Michael Recio ended Tuesday in a mistrial.
Southern Punk Soul in a Singlewide
The Dexateens are rambling into their next act. The Tuscaloosa-based band has been bringing its mix of loose, Stones-like swagger, punk energy and southern rock to music clubs throughout the …
[Rob In Stereo] Can the Best Original Song Oscar be Saved?
When the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences announced Oscar nominations in January, I had hoped it would nominate "WALL-E," an animated movie, for Best Picture. Of course, this …
Nightmare Symptoms
Say the acronym "PMS," and you're bound to react. Some use it as an excuse: "Oh, I'm just PMS-ing." Others use it as an insult: "What is it, that time …
Transcript of Frank Melton Remarks in Short Press Conference Wednesday
JACKSON CITY HALLMayor Frank Melton called a press conference for 10 a.m. today to address plans for Maple Street Apartments, "new and ongoing economic development iniatives" and "continued/long-term focus on …
[HOOD] Stimulus Package Offers Solutions to Faltering Economy, Rising Crime
Guest column
Crime and the economy. No matter how it's sliced, these two issues are inextricably linked. When we face one problem head on, we also tackle the other. And that is …
Fresh Start 2009 Career & College Fair
[verbatim] Are you looking for a new job for the New Year or are you ready to take the next step to getting that degree? Then the Jackson Medical Mall …
Alternative Schools Fail on Education
[verbatim]ACLU Report Reveals Breakdown In Mississippi Alternative Schools
JACKSON, MS – Alternative schools in Mississippi are not adequately helping struggling students to succeed academically, leaving too many of the state's children to drift toward dropout and failure, according …
College Football: USM Star Pleads Not Guilty To Gun Charge
Southern Miss football player Damion Fletcher pleads not guilty to firing a gun inside the city limits of Hattiesburg.
Sports
Wednesday's Starting Five
Tuesday's highlights: Remembering Ole Miss' forgotten team. ... USM in freefall. ... Ben Ingram seeks tricked-out rides.
Tuesday, February 24
Did Bobby Jindal Really Just Diss Monitoring for Volcanoes!?
In his response to President Obama's speech, Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal just criticized the president's stimulus package for providing funding for monitoring volcanoes. On the surface, that's sounds like an …
HB 561: Frozen Embryos are Children
Last week, Mississippi Rep. John Mayo, D-Clarksdale, sent an e-mail to his constituents concerning House Bill 561, the "Human Embryo Adoption Act." In his e-mail, Mayo disparaged the fact that …
It's Official: Mistrial in Melton and Recio Trial
- Kenya Hudson's Melton-Recio trial photos here.
Sports
Tuesday's Starting Five
Monday's highlights: Tougaloo is back on top. ... Aspriona Gilbert stars on Day 1 at the Big House. ... Coming soon to an ESPN show near you: Brett Favre.
Monday, February 23
FBI Recovers 48 Kids in 29-City Prostitution Sting, Including Jackson
Feb. 23, 2009The FBI announced today that it has recovered 48 children in Operation Cross Country III, which targeted child-prostitution networks in 29 cities, including Jackson. Per an FBI statement …
Judge Questions Jurors as Deliberations Continue
- Kenya Hudson's Melton-Recio trial photos here.
Barbour Still ‘No' on Federal Funds
Gov. Haley Barbour reportedly renewed his criticism of the Obama administration's economic bailout package during the National Governors Association winter meeting in Washington, D.C. this past weekend.
Sunday, February 22
Monday's Starting Five
Weekend highlights: Mississippi State starts 3-1 under John Cohen. ... Jackson State white-outs Grambling State. ... The MHSAA Boys and Girls Basketball Tournament begins.
I Call Him 'Mr. Melton'
Well, it's kinda good to finally see a mea culpa column of sorts from David Hampton on his paper's endorsement of Frank Melton, or "Frank" as he and others over …
Saturday, February 21
Jury Complaint: ‘Curious and Serious' Development
- Listen to MC law professor Matt Steffey on today's events
Friday, February 20
Minor Gets Three Hours with Dying Wife
Bill Minor, the father of convicted attorney and Democratic fundraiser Paul Minor, told the Jackson Free Press that his son only has three hours to visit his dying wife in …
Jury Deliberations Resume 9 a.m. Saturday
Kenya Hudson's Melton-Recio trial photos here.
Repubs 'Slapping Themselves on the Back'
Every Friday morning, Daily Kos compiles stats showing how the folks in Washington are doing according to the people. Despite Republicans tripping over themselves to take credit for the economic …
Laissez Les Bon Temps Roulez
Blown away was I when I tasted my first Hurricane on Bourbon Street during Mardi Gras. The drink, not the Katrina.
Schools to Receive Federal Aid
Millions from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act will go toward Mississippi's struggling public education system, according to WXVT 15 in the Delta.
Sports
Friday's Starting Five
This weekend's highlights: Mississippi State baseball begins a new era. ... Ole Miss marks 100 years of basketball. ... It's the best time of year in high school basketball.
Thursday, February 19
Be a Beekeeper
Have you been looking for a green hobby? Check into beekeeping.
The Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce has announced the dates of upcoming workshops that will recruit, educate, and increase participation for new beekeepers in Mississippi.
FBI Seeks Cold Case Info
[verbatim]In February 2006, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) enacted an initiative to identify and closely examine all unsolved hate crimes resulting in death that occurred prior to 1970. A …
Jury Back 12:30 Friday in Melton-Recio Trial; Verdict Today?
Read the JFP original breaking story on Ridgeway destruction here
Sports
Thursday's Starting Five
Wednesday's highlights: Mississippi State and Ole Miss win. ... Oil Can Boyd wants to make a comeback at age 49.
Wednesday, February 18
Ode To Ms. Wilson
I had my first encounter with jazzreal jazz, the kind that washes over your body like a cool, gentle caresswhen I was a high-school sophomore at Murrah High School. One …
Feds: Peters ‘Corruptly Influenced' DeLaughter
Hinds County Circuit Court Judge Bobby DeLaughter, famous for prosecuting infamous civil-rights murderer Byron de la Beckwith, was arraigned last week in federal court for his role in a bribery …
Week 6: Voter ID, Sex Ed, Government Secrecy
As last week came to a close, many 2009 bills met their death in the Mississippi Legislature due to the deadline for passing bills originating in their respective chambers.
Proposed Coal Plant Finds Opposition
Opposition is mounting against a proposed 582-megawatt coal gasification plant in Kemper County that could increase Mississippi ratepayers' utility bills by 15 percent.
Stop Secrecy in Mississippi Government
One of the ways to keep people ignorant is to control their access to information. Open any newspaper in the country, and you'll see stories about how Muslim fundamentalist clerics …
[Stiggers] Recreational Recession
Brotha Hustle: "Aunt Tee-Tee and I are back again roaming the city streets, country roads and other interesting places with our mini DV camcorder, $5.99 Radio Crib microphone and work …
The Best In Sports In 7 Days
Movie, "Varsity Blues" (9 p.m., TBS): A Texas high-school football program is the backdrop of teenage angst and antics. How much of the whipped-cream bikini scene can TBS show?
[Mott] It Starts At Home
Sometimes the universe just comes along and slaps you up side the head. I was the recipient of one of those slaps a few years ago, when the company I …
Jacksonian
Mark Scurlock
Immediately after I entered Scurlock's Donuts, my vow to refuse any pastries placed before me became obsolete. Once the glazed donut hit my taste buds, it was love at first …
Legislators Honor Lasalle
The Mississippi Legislature honored soul singer and Belzoni native Denise Lasalle today with a "resolution saying she had made a 'lasting impact' on rhythm and blues music," according to the …
Don't Spill the Refried Beans
When I was growing up, taco night was not complete without a giant bowl of soft avocado mashed together with onions, tomatoes, and cilantro and surrounded by crunchy white corn …
Hardline Monks: Hitting Every Spectrum
On a recent brisk Sunday afternoon, I met the Hardline Monks at their garage-turned-studio for a rehearsal before their Feb. 20 show at Mugshots.
[Herman's Picks] Vol. 7, No. 23
The Mississippi Academy of Ancient Music brings back the 17th-century dueling harpsichords with John Paul and Shawn Leopard Thursday, Feb. 19, in the St. James Episcopal sanctuary at 3921 Oak …
Cataloguing the Blues
Ted Gioia's "Delta Blues" (W.W. Norton, 2008, $27.95) rambles from Mississippi to Memphis, from Chicago to New York and across Europe, just like the musicians it documents. The book traces …
Quilt of Life
In every class Ravin Hill took during her extensive undergraduate and graduate studies, she found quilting. To Hill, "Quilting is the ultimate metaphor for life. The fabrics that you select …
Barbour Mum about Federal Stimulus Funds
As of Wednesday morning, Gov. Haley Barbour has yet to announce whether he will accept funds from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, which could provide Mississippi with $2.3 billion …
Melton-Recio Jury to Reconvene 9 a.m. on Thursday
U.S. Marshals escorted defense witness Christoper Walker, Frank Melton's former mentee, into the courtroom this morning before jurors arrived.
House Approves Draft Budget
The Mississippi House passed the first draft of the $5 billion state budget for the coming year on Tuesday, according to an AP report appearing on News Channel 3, WREG …
Melton Defense Continues; Chris Walker Today?
JFP Coverage of Defense Witness Christopher Walker
Sports
Wednesday's Starting Five
Tuesday's highlights: The Saints cut loose Deuce. ... The Majors mash MC. ... USM ends five-game losing streak.
Tuesday, February 17
Obama Pushes Stimulus Transparency
In signing the $787 billion American Recovery and Reinvestment Act today, President Barack Obama has embarked on what could be the defining action of his young presidency.
Small Business Loan Clinic
[verbatim] SBA Loan Clinic Available To Entrepreneurs Seeking Financing JACKSON, MS – The U. S. Small Business Administration's Jackson District Office will conduct a Loan Clinic on Tuesday, March 3rd …
JPS Names Teacher of the Year
Jackson Public Schools has named Murrah High School English teacher Stacey Donaldson as Jackson's Teacher of the Year for 2008-2009.
Saints Release Deuce
It seems not even professional football is immune to the economy.
Earlier today, the Associated Press announced that the New Orleans Saints have released running back Deuce McAllister "in a move that reduced the team's payroll as free agency approaches."
Most Local TV Stations Delay Digital
Congress extended the deadline for TV stations to broadcast in a digital format from midnight tonight until June 12, 2009. Some local stations are taking advantage of this extension to …
Bomb Threat Aimed at Courthouse
The Hinds County courthouse is back in business after an alleged bomb threat this morning. The Hinds County Sheriff's Department emptied the courthouse about 8:30 this morning at the news …
McDonald's Customer Survey Scam
[Verbatim from the Attorney General's office] Attorney General Jim Hood warns Mississippi citizens of a fraudulent email circulating in a form that claims to be a McDonalds Customer Satisfaction Survey. …
Witness Bought Crack at Duplex; Told Melton; Wasn't Arrested
JFP Coverage of Defense Witness Christopher Walker
House Approves Medicaid Hospital Measure
The Northeast Mississippi Daily Journail is reporting that the Mississippi House has approved a $45 million assessment on hospitals in a compromise to cover part of the $90 million shortfall …
Sports
Tuesday's Starting Five
Monday's highlights: Damion Fletcher makes history the wrong way. Jackson State wins seventh straight.
Monday, February 16
Southern Miss Players Arrested
Police arrested two University of Southern Mississippi football players Sunday night in Hattiesburg, according to an AP report appearing on the Sports Illustrated Web site.
House Outlaws Traffic Cameras
The Mississippi House sent a bill to the Senate today that will effectively outlaw red-light cameras. HB 1568 will restrict local law enforcement's use of cameras to assist in traffic …
Mississippi Mourns Two Journalists
In recent days, two outstanding Mississippi women journalists have died.
Mildred Dearborn was the long-time editor of The Carthaginian until two years ago, when she suffered a stroke. Dearborn died on Feb. 11.
Senate Kills Public Records Access Bill
The Mississippi Senate shelved a bill designed to make public records more accessible to the public, according to The Greenwood Commonwealth,
Sports
Monday Sports Report
Sunday's highlights: Southern Miss women lead C-USA. Murrah's Mo Williams thrilled to be an All-Star.
Sunday, February 15
SOUL FOOD FORUMS @ WED LUNCH AT PEACHES: THIS WEEK, CHOKWE LUMUMBA
"Soul Food Forums" at Wednesday Lunch at Peaches continues this week with Ward 2 City Council Candidate, Chokwe Lumumba. This will be an excellent opportunity to come vet your council …
LoungeList Photos: HeARTS Against AIDS ‘09
Enjoy the photos:
Kip Caven got out for LoungeList and took tons of photos of the festivities at HeARTS Against AIDS, an annual art auction and charity benefit that raises money for AIDS …
Friday, February 13
Attorneys Meet over Melton Trial Rules
JFP Coverage of Defense Witness Christopher Walker
Handy Hardware Coming to Mississippi
[verbatim from the Governor's office]
Jackson, Mississippi - Governor Haley Barbour announced today that Handy Hardware, a member-owned hardware buying group, will open a distribution center in Meridian. The company plans to employ more than …
"Give Kids a Smile" Today
[verbatim from the Jackson Medical Mall] Some Jackson students are going to see the dentist for the very first time, thanks to the Jackson Medical Mall Foundation and the University …
Corps Unveils Mississippi Gulf Coast Plan
In the works since the devastating 2005 hurricane season, The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Mobile Division, has drafted an exhaustive plan to protect the Mississippi Gulf Coastspecifically, Hancock, Harrison …
Salmonella Confirmed in Mississippi
The Mississippi Department of Health reports seven confirmed cases of Salmonella typhimurium infections in the state, including one each in Hinds and Rankin counties.
Mountain Dew Mouth
ABC's 20/20 is showing a special episode tonight at 9 PM CT called "A Hidden America: Children of the Mountains" which highlights poverty-stricken children of Appalachia. One of the many …
Thursday, February 12
Melton: ‘We Tore That Shit Up'; Prosecution Rests
FEDERAL COURTHOUSEThe prosecution in U.S. v. Melton started Day 4 of testimony in downtown Jackson today by calling Joe Lewis, who is with the city's Community Improvement Division and is …
Jackson Businessman and Wife Hospitalized, Doctors Killed In Head-On Collision
Stuart Irby was in critical condition this morning; Karen Irby was in serious condition.
University Medical Center officials confirmed today that they admitted Jackson business man Stuart Irby and his wife Karen after a head-on collision on Old Canton road around 10:30 p.m. last …
BREAKING: Judge DeLaughter Arraigned in Bribery Scandal
JFP coverage of DeLaughter and Peters
Voter ID Bill Passes the House
House Bill 1533, "The Election Reform Act," is the first bill containing a requirement for state-issued photo ID to pass the House this sessionthough the bill did not leave the …
Nativist Lobby Makes Demands for Stimulus Bill
The Mississippi Business Journal reported yesterday that nativist lobby group FAIR, the Federation for American Immigration Reform, is pushing Sen. Thad Cochran (R-Miss.) to include language in the economic stimulus …
Wednesday, February 11
Essential Healing
I sat on my bed, worn out from arguing with my son. Tears streamed down my face as I replayed the scene in my mind, which seemed like the part …
The Best In Sports In 7 Days
College basketball, William Carey at Belhaven (women, 5:30 p.m., and men, 7:30 p.m., Jackson): The Baptists battle the Presbyterians, GCAC-style. Women's college basketball, Mississippi State at Ole Miss (8 p.m., …
Tearing Down the Wrong Walls
Out of all the disturbing things emerging in Mayor Frank Melton's trial this week, the worst to me has been Michael Taylor's testimony that he lived with the mayor for …
Week 5: ID, Justice, Budgets
Republican Win On Voter ID Senate Republicans succeeded in extending and tightening voter ID requirements for all Mississippians in a bill passed Feb. 4. Senate Bill 2548 originally passed Jan. …
Barbour Ignoring Black Judge Applicants?
The Mississippi Magnolia Bar claims Mississippi Gov. Haley Barbour has proved leery of appointing blacks to judicial positions since he won the governor's office in 2003.
Promote Sexual Health
Mississippians have been riding the "abstinence-only" train right into some of the worst sexual health statistics in the nation.
[Stiggers] Unemployed Wino
Bro Hustle: "Aunt Tee Tee and I got this great idea to capture the free-flowing, alcohol-induced thoughts of Tipsy Lee Jacobson, a homeless wino riding the southbound train to the …
[Kamikaze] Show Up, Jackson
"Those that succeed are the ones that show up" is a mantra that I live by and practice. It is the simple premise that one's mere presence can be a …
[Chandler] Protect Workers' Rights
On Jan. 21, House Labor Committee Chairman Rep. Rufus Straughter, D-Belzoni, read House Concurrent Resolution 25 to the Mississippi House of Representatives. HCR 25which Rep. Jim Evans, D-Jackson, authoredwould "commemorate …
Jacksonian
Grady Griffin
Grady Griffin is the director of education and training for the Mississippi Hospitality and Restaurant Association, but don't let that fancy title fool you.
Fly
Sentimental Mood: Valentine's Gift Guide
Big, small, fancy, funky, sweet and sexy. Your lover probably meets all these descriptions at one point or another so you should treat them with an appropriate gift.
Cover
Rollercoaster Love
The rollercoaster of love is, at best, the ride of your life, and at worst, a terrifying trip that leaves you vomiting.
Valentine's Origns
It is almost impossible to write a definitive history of Valentine's Day because most of it is lost. What we do know is a strange mix of religious facts and …
14 Ways to Use Chocolate
1. Melt a pot of chocolate and dip your favorite snacks into it: graham crackers, marshmallows, pound cake, strawberries or whole frozen bananas. Dried fruit and nuts, like peanuts and …
Lessons from the Animal Kingdom
Romeo never visited the zoo. The lovelorn lad had all he needed to woo Juliet, thanks to Shakespeare's silver pen. But imagine if he flipped on the Discovery Channel and …
Lover's (or Hater's) Rock
Whether you're looking for music to suit your melancholy mood or add fuel to your romantic fire, keep reading. This isn't your average Valentine's Day playlist.
Adios, Mr. Lover Man
"These old places are so rundown," my date said as he walked into my apartment. "I hope you don't pay much rent here."
Unconventional Romantic Films for an Offbeat Valentine's Day
"I was surprised to learn that lesbians accessorized. I didn't know that." Jessica
Cabbages, Fleas and ... Love?
Margaret Walker might have affectionately written, "My monkey wrench man is my sweet patootie," about her husband in the late 70s, but English speakers aren't the only ones who love …
Single Person's Guide to Valentine's Day
Whether you hate it, dread it, look forward to it or try to ignore it it's coming.
The Reverend's Chocolate Spirit for Two
Ingredients:3 oz Godiva Original Chocolate Liqueur3 oz Stolichnaya vodka1 1/2 oz crème de cocoa1/2 oz Bailey's Irish Crème
Meet the Valentines
Chrissy Vessell received the best Valentine ever Feb. 14, 2008, when Billy Valentine became her husband.
[Rob In Stereo] Forgetting the Little Things
Jason Isbell made a name for himself as third guitarist for the preeminent southern rock band of this decade, the Drive-By Truckers. While he was with the band, Isbell established …
"Nudes and Figurative Works"
"Nudes and Figurative Works"• Currently hanging• Fischer Gallery• Free
"Traction"
"Traction"• Feb. 11 at Sneaky Beans; Feb. 18 at One to One Studio; Feb. 25 at the Commons• 7-9 p.m.• Free
Video: Mississippi Truth Commission
Here is some raw footage from the Jan 31 meeting of the Mississippi Truth Commission, the first state-wide body of its kind to assess the tyranny of the Jim Crow …
Bodyguard: Melton Under Influence ‘Every Other Day'
Feb. 11, 2009 - Day 3 of the Melton Trial
Defense attorneys began cross-examining former mayoral bodyguard Marcus Wright this morning. Yesterday, Wright testified that Jackson Mayor Frank Melton had been drinking the night of the Ridgeway Street duplex destruction, …
Jackson Jazz Artist Wins Grammy
Jackson native Cassandra Wilson took home the Grammy for Best Jazz Vocal Album Sunday night for her newest release, "Loverly." The album, which fuses Wilson's distinct voice and modern rhythm …
Tuesday, February 10
Bodyguard Gives Damaging Evidence Against Melton, Recio
On Feb. 10, jurors in the federal civil rights trial of Mayor Frank Melton heard from the government's star witness, former mayoral bodyguard Marcus Wright. Wright, who pled guilty to …
Entergy Claims Good Practices in State; Hood Begs to Differ
Entergy:
Entergy and Attorney General Jim Hood put out dueling press releases today about the company's claim that an audit has found that Entergy's practices are in the state's "best interests." …
Barbour Not Pleased with Senate Over Eminent Domain Limits
After the Mississippi Senate passed Senate Bill 2230 today to restrict the use of eminent domain to direct public use, Gov. Haley Barbour released this statement tonight: "If the bill …
Scruggs Enters Second Guilty Plea
The Associated Press is reporting that Mississippi attorney Richard "Dickie" Scruggs, who is currently serving a five-year sentence for bribery, has pled to a second charge of mail fraud in …
Thinking Abundantly
To get love, you have to give it.
Nature abhors a vacuum. Start with a hole and sure enough, something comes along to fill it, whether that's water from a storm, leaves from the trees or an enterprising …
Wright: Recio Falsified Documents, Melton ‘Clearly Under the Influence'
'On the Road Again' with Melton and his Bodyguards
Frank Melton
Taylor Testimony Creates Firestorm, Brings In Melton Drunkenness
Previous JFP coverage of Michael Taylor
Melton Trial: Jordan Rules to Allow Alcohol Testimony; Taylor Takes the Stand
In a major move, Judge Dan Jordan ruled this morning to allow testimony of Mayor Frank Melton's alleged alcohol consumption the night of the Ridgeway duplex destruction, as well as …
Monday, February 9
Crematorium Owner Arrested Following Indictment
[Verbatim statement] Jackson, MS-A Jackson crematorium owner has been arrested following a five count indictment by a Hinds County Grand Jury, announced Attorney General Jim Hood. Mark Seepe, owner of …
City to Receive $14 Million in HUD Funds
Mayor Frank Melton told reporters today to look forward to about $11 million in federal funds coming to the city for the purchase and repair of foreclosed homes to put …
Melton Trial: Prosecution Calls Michael Taylor
Federal prosecutors have just called Michael Taylor, a former Melton mentee, to the stand to testify. The government has apparently granted Taylor immunity in exchange for his testimony. More to …
Melton Trial: Prosecutors Call Duplex Owner Jennifer Sutton as Witness
The U.S. government called Ridgeway Street duplex owner Jennifer Sutton as their second witness in the federal civil-rights trial of Jackson Mayor Frank Melton today. Crying as she looked a …
Defense Attorneys Try to Block AG's Letter From Melton Trial
Shortly after Mississippi Attorney General Jim hood took the stand this morning during Mayor Frank Melton's federal civil-rights trial, defense attorneys for Melton and Recio moved to block a May …
Calling All Kids!
The U.S. Fund for UNICEF has announced a call for entries for its annual Pier 1 greeting card contest.
Melton Trial Opening Statements Start Today
The federal civil-rights trial of Mayor Frank Melton and former mayoral bodyguard Michael Recio began this morning with opening statements followed by witness testimony. Mississippi Attorney General Jim Hood was …
Friday, February 6
UPDATED: Judge Finalizes Jury For Melton Trial
After five grueling days of questioning potential jurors, Judge Dan Jordan seated 12 jurors and 3 alternates for the federal civil-rights trial of Jackson Mayor Frank Melton and his former …
Low-Cost Heart Health Screening
If you or your loved ones are concerned about heart health, take advantage of the Baptist Health System's low cost heart health screening, offered Monday through Friday at the Baptist …
Thursday, February 5
Remember Fletcher?
When I was a young chap dancing around the downtown area, I witnessed great bands. I saw The Symptoms. I saw City Lights. I saw this Hercules character. I also …
Shred It Friday
[verbatim from the Attorney General's office]
Jackson, MS-Attorney General Jim Hood, Secretary of State Delbert Hosemann and Better Business Bureau President Bill Moak are together again with a host of private partners to help Mississippians fight …
McCoy Urges Barbour Against Cold Feet on Stimulus
Mississippi House Speaker Billy McCoy offered a public plea Thursday to Gov. Haley Barbour to accept federal money offered through a proposed congressional stimulus package worth more than $800 billion. …
Wednesday, February 4
Shoe Bar at Pieces
Cute bag, slinky dress, funky shoes. Girls know we need them, and we know one of the best places to find them is at the Shoe Bar at Pieces. This …
Grover Norquist: ‘Obama Breaks Campaign Promise'
Certain folks around town -- let's call them "interested parties" -- seem occasionally to sign me up for various e-mail newsletter blasts without my consent. The casual observer would be …
When the Going Gets Tough
No doubt about it, these are scary economic times. Many people are losing jobs, some businesses are closing, consumers are holding tight to their dollars.
Cigarette Tax Debate Rages On
Pragmatism and principle will collide when the Mississippi House considers the Senate version of a proposed cigarette tax increase. The Senate approved increasing the cigarette tax from 18 cents per …
Week 5: Selling Planes, Buying Ads, Raising Taxes
Jet-Setters No More? On Friday, the House passed a bill that could put a state jet up for sale on eBay. Citing the "true conservative" example of Sarah Palin, Appropriations …
It's OK to Win ... Or Not
Olivia Hardges, 9, a third-grade student at Marshall Elementary arrived at the JSU e-Center before 8 a.m. on Jan. 23. As other kids gathered in the California room, also wearing …
Indecent Proposal?
The Associated Press reported last week that the scandal of jailed former lobbyist Jack Abramoff reaches fairly far into Mississippi. Abramoff's former deputy Todd Boulanger told U.S. District Judge Richard …
DA Needs to Get Organized
A growing source of frustration around the Hinds County Courthouse is that the office of Hinds County District Attorney Robert Smith is handling case pleadings and motions in a sloppy …
[Stiggers] On The Edge
Nurse Tootie McBride: "As the jobless meter climbs to higher heights, depression, apathy and shame infect the wounds of the people. Life for poor folk in this country is like …
Jacksonian
Paul Forster
Paul Forster is the teacher you wanted to have in high school. Among his many interests, one of his most intriguing is his desire to be an organic farmer.
Vol. 7, No 21
<b><u>Raise the Cigarette Tax</u></b>
Raise the Cigarette Tax Smoking kills almost 4,700 Mississippi residents each year and costs local taxpayers more than $719 million in health-care costs. Given the current economic crisis this state …
[Wilson] Draining A Bloated Government
In Mississippi, a new year means more than just changing calendars. It means the Legislature is back in session, and all 174 of our elected representatives have descended upon the …
'How We Got Over'
Sadie Pettway's eyes grew wide as she inched closer toward the ominous water fountain at stage left. Her sister Nella stood anxiously behind her watching intently as Sadie pulled the …
Cover
Day of Reckoning
The thrice-delayed federal civil-rights trial of Mayor Frank Melton and bodyguard Michael Recio began this week, ending a long process of pre-trial maneuvering.
The Best In Sports In 7 Days
Thursday, Feb. 5College basketball, Spring Hill at Belhaven (women, 5 p.m., and men,7 p.m., Jackson): Belhaven plays host to a GCAC hoops doubleheader.
The Sour Smell of Corruption
Of all the interesting odors hovering in the wake of the exiting Bush administration, the most pervasive smell could prove to be the sickly scent of corruption. The reek sank …
Untrivializing God
Finding common ground for the world's religious fundamentalists may be the most important step the human race can take in the 21st century. Without it, it may be impossible to …
Blues ‘Brothers'
Growing up in Cleveland, Miss., Jason and Brock Bailey learned the blues early. The two brothers spent much of their early childhood listening to the music of their father, Joe, …
[Herman's Picks] Vol. 7, No. 21
If you attended the JFP's 2009 Best Of Jackson Party, you may be jonesing for the next opportunity to explore the shops in Duling School. This Thursday, Feb. 5, the …
[Pass The Mic] Receding Hair Rock
On a recent lazy afternoon, I was becoming one with the couch, mindlessly staring at the tube, when hair-metal has-been Bret Michaels appeared. Bret told me that finally I, too, …
Acupunture Bill Needs Your Support
[Verbatim from the Mississippi Oriental Medicine Association:
Charles Evers to Interview Mayoral Hopeful Robert Johnson
See and update: Robert Johnson on Jackpedia
Union Leader Brenda Scott Announces Mayoral Run
Brenda Scott, President of the Mississippi Alliance of State Employees, threw her hat in the ring for mayor of Jackson on Monday. Speaking to Jackson Free Press yesterday, she promised …
Tuesday, February 3
En Garde!
My first word/phrase was actually, "Dual Custody".
Dating back to the 23rd Century, my family has owned countless Heavernells. First transported to this country by the Smithervites and later by the Torkish of Borgues, these malnourished squabbles …
City Candidate Pages on Jackpedia - Help Us Beef Them Up!
I've posted links to city candidate pages for this year's election on Jackpedia. All of you, whether you work with candidates or not, are welcome to register for Jackpedia and …
Defense Cannot Use Prostitute Allegation Against Bodyguard
See JFP Melton Blog/Archive here.
Federal District Judge Dan Jordan ruled this morning that defense attorneys for Mayor Frank Melton and former bodyguard Michael Recio cannot use allegations of sexual misconduct by former bodyguard Marcus …
Monday, February 2
Jury Selection Begins in Melton-Recio Trial
Melton archive/blog.
The thrice-delayed federal civil rights trial of Mayor Frank Melton and bodyguard Michael Recio kicked off Monday in the federal courthouse in downtown Jackson for the destruction of a private …
Harvey's Running For Mayor, Again
Former Jackson mayor Harvey Johnson announced his candidacy for mayor on Saturday. Speaking in front of the Jackson Convention Complex, Johnson pointed to achievements from his two mayoral terms.
