Stories for November 2010 | Jackson Free Press | Jackson, MS

Stories for November 2010

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Tuesday, November 30

Politics

Lumumba Pulls Probe; City Approves Fee Increase

Ward 2 Councilman Chokwe Lumumba wants all Jackson City Council members present before he makes a motion to vote on conducting an investigation into Council President Frank Bluntson's alleged use …

[Balko] Vanishingly Rare Misconduct Citations

In 2007, a court tried Sonya and Joseph Smith for felony murder in connection with the 2003 death of their 8-year-old son, Josef, who medical examiners said was beaten and …

Biz Roundup

Babalu, New Clinic Opens

Babalu Tacos & Tapas opens today in Fondren's Duling Hall. The Mexican and Spanish-inspired restaurant offers gourmet tacos and small dishes, or tapas, with an emphasis on fresh and often …

Domestic Violence

Shannon Goodwill

Shannon Goodwill wants families affected by domestic violence to know that the community supports them. Goodwill, a sixth-grade art teacher at Brandon Middle School, is organizing "Art and Sole," an …

Politics

Cochran Votes Against Doomed Earmark Ban

UPDATED 11/30/10 2:54 p.m.

Mississippi U.S. Sen. Thad Cochran was one of eight Republicans to vote against an earmark ban, which failed in a 39-to-56 vote in the Senate today.

Monday, November 29

Plaintiffs Seek Removal of Diaz in Minor Suit

The USF&G Insurance Company, from which former attorney Paul Minor won a large settlement in 2001, wants former state Supreme Court Judge Oliver Diaz removed from Minor's civil defense team.

Development

City To Receive $550K Earmark for Art Facilities

Jackson is set to receive $550,000 from the federal government to upgrade three public arts facilities. The City Council will vote tomorrow on submitting a formal earmark request to the …

Music

T-Model Ford

T-Model Ford may be 90 years old, but you'd never know it if you've ever heard the bluesman play his guitar.

Community Events and Public Meetings

6 p.m., Jackson Touchdown Club Meeting at River Hills Country Club (3600 Ridgewood Road). Members of the athletic organization meet weekly during the football season and have access to meals, …

Lawmakers Return to Congress

Lawmakers will debate renewing tax cuts for the wealthy passed under former president George W. Bush as they return to U.S. Congress this morning, Reuters reported today.

Wellness

A Holiday Haiku

To lose weight on Thanksgiving -

The impossible -

Friday, November 26

Hood Cautions Black Friday Shoppers

Verbatim statement : As two of the year's busiest shopping days approach, Mississippi Attorney General Jim Hood is cautioning consumers to be prepared.

Wednesday, November 24

Cooking

Cookin' Up Some Christmas Gifts

Over the past few years, I've realized that most of the adults I know, including myself, have way too much stuff. Nobody really needs another coffee mug, picture frame or …

Cooking

Edible Gifts

While I prefer to make "food" gifts, I don't always have time. I have finally accepted the fact that it's perfectly OK to let other people do the work for …

Food

We're Having That Again?

While I know many folks are able to deftly hide last night's dinner in some sort of casserole, I never learned the skillful art of food camouflage. The Man knows. …

Food

Food Fight: Desserts of Vicksburg

Before the 19th century and the mechanization of the sugar industry, desserts were consumed mainly by privileged aristocrats or as a rare holiday treat. Thank goodness for technology, or I …

Fly

From the Artist's Hands

The Jackson area is filled with tons of creative folks offering handmade items that would make wonderful holiday gifts. Each item carries the essence of the person who made it. …

Books

Spiritual Exploration

Check out these titles to learn how different people worship (or don't) and how to co-exist harmoniously with your newfound knowledge. All books available at Lemuria Books (Banner Hall, 4465 …

Fly

Gifts of the Spirit

Looking to seek the inner within? Or perhaps a journey to Nirvana? Each of us seek to to find the peace within ourselves. Or at least enjoy the road trip. …

Diy Guides

Church Lady

In times past, tradition dictated that a woman of a certain age cover her head when entering a church on Sunday mornings. It all started with the biblical apostle Paul. …

Sports

The Best In Sports In 7 Days

Doctor S sez: Last year, Mississippi State ruined the Rebels' holidays with an Egg Bowl upset. Can the Rebels return the favor this year?

Education

JSU Presidential Pick Named

The board of trustees for Mississippi's universities announced Nov. 22 that it had selected Carolyn W. Meyers to serves as the next president of Jackson State University. Meyers is the …

Development

Not a Ghost Town

As Betty Lyons rode through neighborhoods in west Jackson during a recent tour, she envisioned the boarded-up homes along Grand Avenue and Rose Street occupied with residents and creating a …

Justice

Private Youth Prison Under Fire

By corporate standards, the Walnut Grove Youth Correctional Facility has been a success. Since opening in 2001, the private prison has generated roughly $100 million for the companies that have …

Business

Downtown Arena, Anyone?

It's become a rite of passage: The rebounding city builds a sports-and-entertainment arena, a shiny mark of maturity and status, like a 16-year-old's new car.

Editorial

Fix the Earmarks Process

Mississippi's U.S. Sens. Cochran and Wicker, whipped to a fury by Republican deficit hawks, have committed themselves to the idea of no longer sending earmark money back to their home …

[Stiggers] Unemployed and Broke

"You took my dignity and gone. My children are depressed because I cannot provide for them. My wife is annoyed, and I am desperate and frustrated. And I don't have …

Education

[Kamikaze] Race, Again

My late mother always encouraged me to face problems head on. To this day, I've never let issues fester. Problem? You're going to know about it immediately, and I'm going …

Faith

[Collier] Don't Give Up on God

Natalie A. Collier

Much of who I am can be attributed to not only my family but to the people at the church I grew up in. While there is a strange one …

Faith

It Just Is: Nurturing A Child's Spirituality

When children are born, human parents experience something spiritual just by being in the child's presence—their fingers and toes and eyelashes, the smell of their skin, and the way their …

Faith

Circle of the Sun

I went for a walk through Belhaven with a friend one afternoon a few weeks ago. We passed people walking their dogs and some joggers. And suddenly, it was dark …

Faith

Things Worth Saving

Recently, my life went completely down the flusher. My wife, with whom I was blissfully in love, texted me to say she wanted a divorce.

Faith

Dancing for God

Church isn't something that pops into my head when I think about dance. However, today's society has changed its views on dance and church, and many churches integrate dance into …

Faith

A View From the Broom Closet

I am a witch. No, not the fairy-tale type with green skin and a huge crooked nose or the sexy, raven-haired teenager with dark make-up from the latest thriller.

Tease photo Cover

Heart: Finding Relevance in Ancient Teachings

Although American religious culture is often described as "Judeo-Christian," and random verses from the Old Testament are sometimes used as proof-texts to bolster whatever political argument a speaker might support.

Faith

Right Here, Right Now

I've always wanted change. At 13, I declared to my parents that I was moving to the Caymans where I would support myself as a watercolorist. That didn't quite work …

Jackblog

Egg Bowl 2010 Has Reverse 2009 Deja Vu

The next couple of weeks are probably my favorite time to be a college football fan. Starting Thursday (Thanksgiving) and ending next Saturday it is rivalry week in college football.

Film

Beyond Hair

I need more black friends. That was the first thing I thought as I walked into the Regency Hotel Saturday evening, Nov. 13, for the third annual Mississippi Hair Battle. …

Music

Shadowing the Blues

When put under the microscope of the most discerning blues aficionado, the Bailey Brothers' debut studio album "How to Write the Wrong" delivers the whole package in every aspect.

Music

Thank You

With the holidays coming at us like a freight train, I'm reflecting on all the things I'm thankful for in 2010.

Books

Country's Queen

Tammy Wynette once said, "I believe you have to live your songs," but too often the life of this country-music superstar takes a backseat to her hit, "Stand By Your …

Politics

Priester Wins Runoff

Melvin Priester Sr. won a seat as Hinds County Court Judge in yesterday's runoff election.

Priester, who faced Jackson attorney Brent Southern in subdistrict 1, will take the seat of Judge William Barnett, who did not seek re-election, after a swearing-in ceremony Jan. 3. Priester …

Editor's Note

An Ache in Our Souls

A few years ago, I made what was, for me, a radical step: joining the Unitarian Universalist Church of Jackson. For a minute or two, I was on the board …

Politics

Earmark ‘Kings' Pledge Ban

Mississippi's two U.S. senators signed onto a pledge last week by fellow Republicans to refrain from requesting earmark funds for their home state during the upcoming 112th Congress. Sens. Thad …

Jacksonian

Rev. Bruce Wimberley

Rev. Bruce Wimberley is a man with fierce, brown eyes. Despite his intense gaze, he exhibits a calm demeanor. His leather sandals reveal his casual nature and appreciation for comfort, …

Tuesday, November 23

City Defends Fee Hikes, Lay-offs

City officials and Jackson Mayor Harvey Johnson Jr. stressed cost increases as the reason for water and sewer fee hikes and JATRAN employee cuts yesterday at Jackson City Council session.

Business

Business News: Renovations and Closings

Eley Guild Hardy Architects celebrated the opening of its downtown Jackson office Nov. 18. The firm moved into the former Union Planters Bank building at 329 E. Capitol St. this …

Person of the Day

Gwendolyn A. Magee

Textile artist Gwendolyn A. Magee never intended to tell stories through intricate needlework, but after taking a quilting workshop to make quilts for her family, she discovered an outlet for …

Crime

[Balko] Draconian Gun Laws

Sue Aitken called the police because she was worried about her son, Brian. She now lives with the guilt of knowing that her phone call is the reason Brian spent …

Run Off Election Today

County and circuit judicial candidates are on the ballot for today's runoff election.

In Hinds County, voters will chose between Brent Southern and Melvin Priester for county judge. In Madison County, Will Longwitz and Steve Ratcliff face each other for county judge.

Monday, November 22

Bluntson and Lumumba Square Off

Council President Frank Bluntson claims allegations that he pressured city employees to take off work and campaign for his daughter-in-law, unsuccessful Madison County Justice Court candidate Barbara Ann Bluntson, are …

Education

JSU, Alcorn Presidential Picks Unveiled

The board of trustees for Mississippi's universities announced its preferred candidates today for the presidencies of Alcorn State University and Jackson State University. M. Christopher Brown, executive vice president and …

Person of the Day

Dr. Clay Hays

As the grand marshal for the city of Jackson's annual holiday parade, Dr. Clay Hays is using his time in the limelight to promote healthier living in the city.

Community Events and Public Meetings

5 p.m., Credit Training at Jackson Medical Mall (350 W. Woodrow Wilson Ave.), in the Community Meeting Room. A BankPlus representative gives tips on improving your credit. Call 601-982-8467.

Friday, November 19

Jackblog

2010 Capital City Classic Preview and Prediction

This Saturday, Jackson State and Alcorn State will battle for yearly bragging rights in the 2010 Capital City Classic. As usual the game will be played at 1PM in Veterans …

Business

Councilmen Address Store Shooting

Addressing tension between Indian storeowners and their African American clientele, Ward 3 Councilman Kenneth Stokes called for dialogue between the groups at a public hearing on crime yesterday evening.

Business

Jackson Local Business Alliance Gains Support

Several Community members supported the idea of of forming a local business alliance today during a presentation by American Independent Business Alliance co-founder Jeff Milchen.

It's the Weekend: Live it Up

The weather might be getting colder, but don't let that stop your weekend fun. When you get off work today, head to the Handworks Holiday Market at the Mississippi Trade …

Person of the Day

Terry Sullivan

As a former executive for a global food retail operation, Terry Sullivan saw first hand the adverse effects marketing and large portion sizes have on public health. He is currently …

Thursday, November 18

Crime

Jackson Major Crimes Up 5.3 Percent

Download JPD's weekly crime report (PDF)

Advocates Push for Medicaid Decision

State health advocates are appealing to the federal Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services with concerns that the Mississippi Division of Medicaid is discouraging eligible disabled beneficiaries from seeking Medicaid …

Sports

JFP Persons of the Day: Jan Finney and Liz Carmouche

Since its inception, men have predominately ruled the sport of mixed martial arts. Recently, however, a crop of rough and tough female fighters has stepped up to the plate. On …

Wednesday, November 17

Editor's Note

For the Kids

A few months ago, I picked up a copy of The Clarion-Ledger's VIP Jackson magazine and flipped through. I was shocked at how few black VIP Jacksonians I saw in …

Sports

En Garde!

As a young boy, my parents introduced me to classic films featuring Errol Flynn ("Captain Blood") and Douglas Fairbanks Jr. ("The Corsican Brothers"). I mainly remember the swashbucklers' fencing duels.

Sports

The Best In Sports In 7 Days

Doctor S sez: Which will happen first? Houston Nutt goes crazy, or Dan Mullen gets another job?

Cooking

Don't Panic, It's Just a Big Bird

Take a deep breath and step away from the turkey. Now exhale slowly, and let's take stock of the situation. You have been awarded/punished/tested with the job of preparing the …

Cooking

Vegetarians Cry Fowl at Thanksgiving

So many events in our lives revolve around food. Thanksgiving turkey, mincemeat pies at Christmas, Easter ham—all these are lauded traditions. So what's a vegetarian to do amidst all that …

Eating Out

Local Guide to a Worry-Free Turkey Day

Oh, the joy of Thanksgiving! As we prepare to give thanks and share time with family and friends, food will take center stage. Although many will spend hours in the …

Cooking

The Skinny on Stuffing

Every Thanksgiving, my house is divided. We take sides over stuffing—or dressing—whatever you prefer to call it.

Cooking

Cranberry Apple Bake

To my family, it's not fall until Mom cooks the first batch of cranberry apple bake, warming the kitchen and filling the house with the smell of brown sugar.

Business

Tacos y Tapas in Fondren

Babalu Tacos & Tapas is set to open in December in Duling Hall, in the renovated Duling School in Fondren.

Politics

City Eyes Water Hikes

The city of Jackson is eyeing water and sewer fee hikes this year.

Health Care

UMMC Unveils Obesity Center

Visitors to the Jackson Convention Center during last week's Global Obesity Summit could be forgiven for a little mirthless laughter.

Business

Alliances of the Little Guys

Jeff Milchen doesn't like big boxes. In 1997, Milchen noticed with alarm that large chain stores were rapidly displacing the locally owned, independent stores that gave Boulder, Colo., its character.

Education

Millsaps at Vietnam

"I thought I was having a hallucination," student Sharon Yoo wrote in her journal. "It was like the scenery from the movie 'Avatar.'"

Business

The Cost of Not Shopping Local

Jacksonians were bummed to discover last week that the city plans to raise water fees by 13 percent and sewer fees by 6 percent to shore up the city's budget …

Politics

[Stiggers] Turkey Day Parade

Miss Doodle Mae: "As the holiday season approaches, Jojo's Discount Dollar Store is gearing up for a special event during Thanksgiving. It's an event the financially challenged community will enjoy."

Business

[Letter To The Editor] Payday Loans Needed

Every American adult has experience in financial management. But despite the fact that we all manage our personal finances and make decisions every day about how to spend, save and …

Wellness

How Not to Get Sick

Several coworkers and friends in my life have gotten sick recently. It's probably the change in the weather. Luckily, I have an amazing immune system. Seriously, I'm not even trying …

Art

Break-Neck Speed

In 1972 I went on a Girl Scout camping trip to Washington, D.C. One of the chaperoning mothers brought along her son, Terry. We kidded with each other that I …

Tease photo Cover

Kids Having Kids

Ollie Jackson's baby, Lauryn, sleepily rubs her eyes as she sits on her 19-year-old father's lap during a football game at Newell Field in Jackson.

Art

Losing Time in Pen and Ink

Doodling a detailed picture on a napkin, the architect with white hair and blue eyes concentrates while a waitress clears the plates around him.

Music

Soul, Front and Center

I am not a soul-music guy, generally speaking; I grew up on punk rock for the most part. Outside the luminaries of soul my knowledge of the genre drops off …

Good

Add Cheer, Not Expense

Holidays happen, but we have the power and responsibility to choose how we celebrate them and what they mean to each of us.

Development

Arena Supporters Raise Funds for Study

Supporters of a proposed arena for downtown Jackson made their case yesterday at the Jackson Convention Complex. A steering committee featuring many area business leaders is trying to raise $80,000 …

Politics

Flaggs: Keep Check Cashers Act

Mississippi House of Representatives Banking Committee Chairman George Flaggs, D-Vicksburg, says he wants to extend the life of the 1998 Mississippi Check Cashers Act, which allows short-term lenders a special …

Hitched

J.J. Luther and Karson Williams

Karson Williams laughed at a joke on top of the Ironworks Building in downtown Jackson. She and J.J. Luther had come up to the roof to look at the stars …

Jacksonian

David Hoskins

David Hoskins is used to getting strange questions. As the reference librarian at the Eudora Welty Public Library, he is the go-to guy for research materials and assistance.

Tuesday, November 16

Jackblog

Going nuts in Oxford, Part 2

Doctor S could take the easy way out and say that Ole Miss football coach Houston Nutt was being refreshingly honest when he made his Oxford address on Monday. His …

City to Shore Up $1.5M for JATRAN

Jackson Mayor Harvey Johnson Jr. said Monday the city will have to come up with an unexpected $1 million by January to pay for JATRAN bus drivers.

Biz Roundup

Arena Study; Blues Joint Opens

Supporters of a proposed downtown sports and entertainment arena will host a fundraiser and information session this evening at the Jackson Convention Complex. In 2009, a steering committee of business …

Person of the Day

Kathy Nester

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Wellness

"Depression Doesn't Wait Until Monday"

As I was preparing for work the other morning, I saw a clip on Good Morning America about an upcoming Marie Osmond interview on The Oprah Winfrey Show. She was …

Jackblog

Is Nutt going nuts?

Ole Miss football coach Houston made an impassioned plea at his Monday news conference.

Monday, November 15

Capitol

Barbour Proposes 8 Percent Budget Cut in 2012

Gov. Haley Barbour outlined his 2012 budget proposal at a press conference this afternoon, calling for an average of 8 percent cuts to state agencies next year. Barbour's $5.47 billion …

Wellness

Counterbalance

Salad, salad, and more salad. This is what my body has been craving the last couple of weeks. Who can be surprised after the funnel cake splurge at the state …

Hurricane

Katrina Victims to Receive $132 million

The U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development settled a $132 million lawsuit last week allowing individual Gulf Coast renters to claim up to $75,000 for Katrina-related destruction.

Development

Supes OK Jackson Road Projects

The Hinds County Board of Supervisors gave advance approval today for county public-works crews to do routine maintenance work in the city of Jackson. The board passed Supervisor Peggy Calhoun's …

Person of the Day

Capt. Ken Chapman

When you do your shopping this holiday season, you might hear Capt. Ken Chapman's determined bell ringing for the Salvation Army's Red Kettle.

Community Events and Public Meetings

6 p.m., Jackson Touchdown Club Meeting at River Hills Country Club (3600 Ridgewood Road). Members of the athletic organization meet weekly during the football season and have access to meals, …

Barbour to Announce Budget Proposals

Gov. Haley Barbour will release his budget proposals for the upcoming 2012 fiscal year, which begins July 1, 2011, during a press conference this afternoon.

Friday, November 12

Jackson Water Bill Increases Ahead?

The Jackson City Council will address a fee increase of 13 percent for water and 6 percent for sewer services during Tuesday's city council meeting. Jackson Mayor Harvey Johnson Jr. …

Person of the Day

Steve Godbold

Mississippi Animal Rescue League Graphic Designer and Marketer Steve Godbold is passionate about helping abandoned animals find a good home.

Homeless Day Shelter Reopens

The Opportunity Center, Jackson's only daytime homeless shelter, will reopen later this month. Stewpot Community Services, which opened the shelter in May 2007, closed it April 2 due to a …

It's the Weekend: Do it Big

If you didn't get tickets for tonight's BOOM Jackson fashion show, cheer up, because you can still make the after party. The event is a fundraiser for Dress for Success …

Thursday, November 11

[Lynch] On Veterans Day

My father-in-law, Vietnam War veteran Timothy Cheeks, wants more tolerance this Veterans Day. Tim works in the Healthcare for Homeless Veterans division of the Mississippi Veteran's Administration Hospital in Jackson, …

Person of the Day

David Koren

A "Wizard of Oz"-inspired mini-golf course, 10,000 portraits on 10,000 matchbooks and a bed made from grass are all examples of participatory art projects in New York City. If David …

Feds Support Mississippi's Obesity Fight

When it comes to addressing and preventing obesity, federal action can help set the tone for efforts, but true progress will come from local action, U.S. Secretary of Health and …

Wednesday, November 10

Jackblog

SWAC To JSU Coach: Bleep You, Stay At Home

The SWAC has suspended Jackson State football coach Rick Comegy for this weekend's game at Arkansas-Pine Bluff.

Cooking

Chinese Memories

I never had a chance. My parents were addicted by the time I was born, and by the time I came of age, I was sitting next to them learning …

Sports

Good, Bad, Bowls

The college football season is surging toward its conclusion. Over the final three weeks of the season, everything will fall into place. We'll discover if the SEC can go for …

Sports

The Best In Sports In 7 Days

Doctor S sez: Jackson State appeared ready to wrap up the SWAC East title. After losing to Alabama State, the Tigers have trouble with a capital T.

How To

Hot-Blooded Vote Counters

Despite warnings that an intra-office feud could jeopardize its integrity, the Nov. 2 elections in Hinds County appeared to go off without a hitch. With its hands full handling post-election …

Health Care

Medicaid Boots Kids

Deborah Edmonson, a parent attending a Nov. 4 legislative hearing on Medicaid, said the state rejected her Down syndrome daughter for aid, even though the U.S. Department of Disability Services …

Good

Gardens, By and For the People

Serenity Luckett, principal of Brown Elementary, looked down at the dirt of the soon-to-be-garden she was watering to see the water roll into pools on top of the soil. After …

Editorial

It's About Jobs, Not ‘Obamacare'

Republicans managed to snag a U.S. House of Representatives majority last week, and many consider this a "mandate" to repeal health-care reform meant to hold insurance companies accountable and provide …

Politics

[Stiggers] Winter in America

Big Roscoe: "Welcome to the post-daylight-saving time edition of ‘Clubb Chicken Wing's Def Poetry Jam with Hot Sauce.' We have a virgin about to recite something to you. And he …

[Kamikaze] Take the ‘I' Out of Team

I'm not a Democrat or Republican. Nor am I liberal or conservative. I shun the two-party mindset, believing that there's no either/or scenario when it comes to politics. I'm more …

[Purvis] Making a Home, Building a Life

My house on Chickasaw Avenue has been a work in progress since I bought it in 2008. In my mom's opinion, it had three strikes against it: It was an …

Home & Garden

Harmonize Your Small Space

Small living spaces can easily feel cramped, making the rules of feng shui—the ancient Chinese system of architecture and interior design that harmonize a space with the spiritual forces that …

Anatomy Of

Mythic Paint

Across from the University of Southern Mississippi in Hattiesburg sits the retro-logoed Mythic Paint national headquarters and lab. A spattering of Mini Coopers is in the parking lot among the …

Home & Garden

How to Buy An Acre of Diamonds

Jasmine Brooks, a special education major at Jackson State University, wants to buy a home in the west Jackson area. Her goal, she says, is to create a community of …

Home & Garden

Green It, Baby

Practicing sustainable habits, or going "green," is something everyone can do to keep our planet a healthy place to live. Here are five ways to "green" your home. Remember, if …

Home & Garden

All Hers All The Time

The definition of "kitsch" is sort of hard to pin down these days. Kitsch is often used by the "shabby chic" to adorn their abodes, but the word's origin rambles …

Diy Guides

DIY Bibles

Even the best of us need a good help book. The real problem is to find one that matches your style. Fortunately, we've already did the hard part for you.

Home & Garden

New To The Decor Thing? Let Lisa Help.

Lisa Palmer, owner of the delightful interior showroom SummerHouse (1109 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite D, Ridgeland, 601-853-4445), has been in the interior design business since 1997 (and can sing like …

Editor's Note

Redefining Home

This is the first time I've talked about this. There have been many reasons I've kept my "secret" in the vault. There's a stigma that comes with it. It's one …

Home & Garden

Decorating With Art

When Professional Staffing Group co-owner Jane Sanders Waugh isn't running her Fondren business or acting in a local theater production, she likes to spend her free time perfecting her Jackson …

Fly

Drowning In Wallpaper

I'm pretty sure I have permanent neck damage. It happened when I decided it was time to take down the wallpaper in my daughter's bathroom. It wasn't bothering my daughter, …

Fly

The Headboard Blues

When one door closes ... you build a headboard.

Fly

You Can't Imagine

I was enjoying my late morning leisure. The kids were in school, and Kitty was at her office. This was Tom Time. I was nestled into the sofa, Café Cubano …

Fashion

Laid Back Style

Nate Berkus—you know Nate, the interior-design god of Oprah Winfrey fame—says, "Your home should rise up to greet you." But sometimes after being greeted, you just want to lounge. You …

Feature

Ray's Wife Tells Tales

A storyteller came to Mississippi to weave her tales, only she didn't know it at the time. Diane Williams, 57, moved here from New Jersey because of a Mississippi farm …

Music

Fussing and Cussing

Jackson is my boyfriend. I love this city. I've lived in Jackson for 11 years now and have met some of the finest people in the state. Among these mighty …

Tease photo Cover

Urban Oasis

Michele Escude's dream is coming true this month in Fondren. circa., the new retail venue that she and her husband, Craig, created, opened for its soft launch in early November …

Development

Johnson Pushes For New Hwy 80 Zoning

Jackson Mayor Harvey Johnson Jr. said he will propose a zoning change and improved code enforcement for the Highway 80 corridor to promote new development in the city.

Music

Intoxicating Blues

Through decades of change and evolution in the Jackson music scene, Edward "King Edward" Antoine has held his ground. Planted firmly in his chair, King Edward picks his guitar and …

Health Care

Republican Agenda Likely to Create Gridlock?

Republicans, who opposed much of President Barack Obama's agenda throughout the administration's first year, took control of the U.S. House of Representatives Nov. 2 and appear to consider their success …

Education

Teachers Fire Back at Film

In "Waiting for 'Superman,'" the provocative new documentary on America's education system, the trick is that the titular superhero doesn't exist. It argues that no single force will rescue the …

Jacksonian

Dr. Kimberly Hilliard

Dr. Kimberly Hilliard isn't one to make small plans. As the director of Jackson State University's Center for University-Based Development, Hilliard is on a mission to make west Jackson a …

Tuesday, November 9

Media

[Balko] The Media Aren't Liberal

For the last few months, my colleague Matt Welch has been tracking the positions of California's newspapers on Proposition 19, the ballot measure that would have legalized marijuana for recreational …

Person of the Day

Beth Orlansky

Beth Orlanksy is using her past experiences reforming low-income child care to push for stronger payday-lending regulation in Mississippi.

Biz Roundup

Fairview Hearing, UMMC Research

The city's Planning Board will hold a hearing Wednesday, Nov. 17, on a permit application that would allow the Fairview Inn to apply for a permit to operate a public …

Oil Spill

Mississippi Seeks BP Funds to Promote Gulf

Mississippi Department of Marine Resources officials are negotiating with BP for money to promote Gulf seafood, The Sun Herald reported today.

Monday, November 8

Wellness

On Drinking Less and Getting Sleep

For the past few weeks I've been bothered by what I assume are allergies that have caused an interesting reaction -- if I drink even one mug of beer or …

Development

New Levee Board Chairman, Finance Committee

The Rankin-Hinds Pearl River Flood and Drainage Control District Levee Board voted to elect Flowood Mayor Gary Rhoads chairman of the board and created a financing committee to fund flood …

Community Events and Public Meetings

6 p.m., Jackson Touchdown Club Meeting at River Hills Country Club (3600 Ridgewood Road). Members of the athletic organization meet weekly during the football season and have access to meals, …

Development

West Jackson Program Pushes for Residents

An underused federal lending program could bring new life to west Jackson. Jackson State University's Center for University-Based Development is throwing its support behind a push by Jackson-based mortgage lender …

Justice

Rev. Barron Banks

When Barron Banks was 18, federal marshals had to accompany him to the polling precinct in Tchula, Miss., so he could vote without getting harassed or beaten. Nearly five decades …

Crime

JPD Officer Involved in Shooting

The Jackson Police Department is investigating a Sunday shooting that involved a Jackson Police Department officer, WAPT reported yesterday.

Friday, November 5

Jackblog

Did Fox News ‘Win' The Election?

I wasn't watching this as closely and didn't realize *exactly* how tied in they really are:

Interesting piece by Karl Frisch putting together the puzzle pieces on Fox News' political strategy. It's an ironic read on the same day that MSNBC suspended Keith Olbermann -- a …

Mississippi Hires First Medical Examiner in 15 Years

A former Alabama medical examiner with a history of high-profile international cases began his role as Mississippi's first medical examiner in 15 years on Nov. 1.

Person of the Day

Susan Piedmont-Palladino

Susan Piedmont-Palladino believes that new technology can help make cities better.

Politics

Ward 1 Candidates Seek Weill's Seat

Ward 1 Councilman Jeff Weill's election to a Hinds County Circuit Court judge seat means a second mid-term vacancy for Jackson's Ward 1 council seat. Former Councilman Ben Allen abandoned …

Start Your Weekend Here

This weekend is a great time for finding unique holiday gifts at the 30th annual Mistletoe Marketplace at the Mississippi Trade Mart (1200 Mississippi Street). Shop until 8 p.m. tonight …

Thursday, November 4

Jackblog

Shops, Businesses, Personalities (and Remy!) Supporting BOOM Runway Show Nov. 12 at Duling Hall!

Just look at the line-up on board so far!

JFP and BOOM Jackson are as excited as we can be about our first BOOM runway show on Friday, Nov. 12, in Duling Hall in Fondren us for a three-part …

Capitol

State Denying Care for Disabled Children?

The Mississippi Coalition for Citizens with Disabilities says the state Division of Medicaid is illegally cutting off children from the state's Disabled Children Living at Home program.

Politics

Runoff Scheduled for Priester-Southern Race

Hinds County residents in the county's first judicial sub-district have a second decision to make in their judicial election. Special Circuit Court Judge Melvin Priester and attorney Brent Southern will …

Person of the Day

Bill Fletcher Jr.

Writer and activist Bill Fletcher Jr. wants more people to ask "Why?"

Capitol

LeGrand: Mental Health Cuts ‘Devastating'

Read the Letter (PDF)

Wednesday, November 3

Sports

The Best In Sports In 7 Days

Doctor S sez: Have you heard about the new college football recruiting movie? It's called "The Price is Right."

Sports

‘Sweet Science' in Pearl

Boxing can help keep kids off the street and give them direction in their lives says former fighter turned boxing coach Bombay Higginbottom. He preaches that boxing teaches discipline and …

Cooking

Change is Good

I usually talk about the pleasures of meat. I love meaty good meatness. But today, I diverge. Today's recipe is vegetarian. It could even be made vegan by substituting olive …

Drink

Beer Magic

Serve up a little bit of magic this Halloween with this throwback to the Irish Shandy, which is beer flavored with carbonated lemonade, ginger beer, ginger ale or citrus flavored …

Cooking

Staying Frugal and Sane

On my journey to frugality, I've discovered a myriad of blogs and books that describe all sorts of strategies for saving money. Some strategies I find extremely helpful, and others …

Editor's Note

Loving The Sinner

When I was about 9 years old, my cousin Kim and I got into a fight. I don't remember what we were fighting about, but I got so angry I …

Business

Development Roundup: JRA Eyes Farish, Delays on Arena

The Jackson Redevelopment Authority's Oct. 27 board meeting saw few major steps forward but many hints at future projects.

Development

PEER Questions Funding

The Joint Legislative Committee on Performance Evaluation and Expenditure Review is warning against the likelihood of the Rankin-Hinds Pearl River Flood and Drainage Control District Levee Board funding a lake …

Development

Lessons From Texas?

The Rankin-Hinds Pearl River Flood and Drainage Control District can take a lesson from Fort Worth, Texas, Waggoner Engineering owner Joe Waggoner said at the Oct. 27 Levee Board meeting.

Business

Convention Hotel Waits on Financing

It's been a little over a month since the Jackson Redevelopment Authority passed a resolution to issue up to $95 million in bonds for the proposed convention center hotel complex, …

Editorial

Free the Scott Sisters

Gov. Haley Barbour should pardon Jamie and Gladys Scott—and not because we believe beyond a shadow of doubt that they are innocent. He should pardon them because they have done …

[Stiggers] The Chitterling Holiday Season

Earnest "Monday Night Football Head" Walker: "Attention, Pork-N-Piggly shoppers: Now that the elections are over, it's time to enjoy the holiday seasons. As chief executive officer of Pork-N-Piggly supermarkets, I …

Politics

Remember Sanity

When I was given the opportunity to go to Jon Stewart's Rally to Restore Sanity this past weekend, I jumped at the chance. I went to school in the Washington, …

Politics

[Head] Don't Tread on Her

Whatever political ideology the Rand Paul supporters who attacked Lauren Valle last week might have claimed to have, they became fascists the moment they held her down and stomped her …

Tease photo Cover

The Tragic Case of the Scott Sisters

Jamie and Gladys Scott arrived at the Mini Mart gas station on Highway 35 in Forest, Miss., sometime between 10:30 and 11 p.m. on Christmas Eve 1993. It was just …

Art

The Head of State

As long as there have been politics, there has been political art. From ancient times to modern, political art has found its place in society.

Books

Back to the Source

About this time 150 years ago, Abraham Lincoln was elected president, an event so fraught with peril for southerners that within months, 11 states had seceded from the Union. While …

Books

Fabulous Beats Reality

Americans prefer myth to history, asserts Jacksonian and Hinds Community College history professor Benjamin Cloyd. In a new book examining the realities of prisoner-of-war camps during the Civil War, Cloyd …

Feature

Luck of the Draw

Every Sunday morning, the glorious sound of hymns fills the sanctuary of Northminster Baptist Church in Jackson. Behind every great choir, there's a great choir director, and at Northminster, it's …

Music

Fireworks of the Heart

The Mississippi Opera will present its first show of the fall season, "Passion and Fireworks: The Heart of the Opera," Saturday, Nov. 6, at the Belhaven University Center for the …

Entergy: Global Warming Threatens Coast

Entergy Corp. says the Mississippi Gulf Coast will suffer $370 billion in losses to global warming if power companies do not offset the amount of carbon they are putting into …

Stopping the Swap

Hinds County's interest-rate swap won't always be the gift that keeps on giving. The fancy financial derivative deal has brought the county $4.4 million over four years thanks to historically …

Jacksonian

Dr. Shirley Schlessinger

When Dr. Shirley Schlessinger was a young medical student at Baylor Hospital in Dallas, an encounter with a patient who desperately needed a transplant became the catalyst for devoting her …

Jackblog

What does the term "Taking Back Our Country" Mean? And while we're at it…

... Can someone tell me why the folks who are "taking America back" are called "Patriots?" Why am I not one? and who are we "taking our country back from" …

Politics

Mississippi Republicans Make Gains in Congress

Two Mississippi Blue Dog Democrats lost their seats in the U.S. House of Representatives in yesterday's midterm elections.

Jackblog

Bulldogs Mourn the Passing of Defensive End Nick Bell

Today great sadness affects two families.

The first family affected is that of Nick Bell and the other family is the teammates of Bell on the Mississippi State football team. Bell, a 20-year-old from Bessemer, Ala., …

Tuesday, November 2

Biz Roundup

Design Competition; New Jobs; Biz Workshops

Mississippi State University's Jackson Community Design Center hosts "FORMcities: Urban/Divide Design Competition and Symposium" Nov. 4 through Nov. 6 in downtown Jackson. During the design competition, participants will select a …

Person of the Day

Harvey Walden IV

Wearing military fatigues and shouting into his megaphone, Harvey Walden IV isn't afraid to push Hollywood celebrities to the limit. As the trainer on VH1's "Celebrity Fit Club," Walden uses …

Crime

[Balko] More Democracy, More Incarceration

Last year the U.S. prison population declined for the first time in a generation. That's good news, but it doesn't begin to offset the damage done by a 30-year incarceration …

Candidate

Henry Clay

Henry C. Clay III has been a part-time judge for a long time. Clay, 52, has served as a Jackson municipal court judge for the past 16 years, while simultaneously …

Politics

Get Your Vote On: Open Election Thread

Area polls are open until 7 p.m. tonight for voters to elect county and circuit court judges and send their candidates to the U.S. House of Representatives.

Monday, November 1

Wellness

Looking for a Wake Up Call

Each night before I go to bed, I have lofty goals for the next morning. I set my alarm for 5:30 and I envision jumping out of bed and heading …

Politics

Mississippi Pols Predict Blue Dog Defeat

Mississippi politicos today predicted big election wins for Republican candidates running against Mississippi conservative Democrats in the congressional elections, but expected few gains from Congress if Republicans took control.

Politics

Hinds Election Feud Heats Up

A spat between Hinds County Election Commissioners spilled over into a county Board of Supervisors meeting today, with suggestions of voting machine tampering and possibly compromised elections. With elections scheduled …

Development

Council to Push for Permanent Tourism Bureau

The Jackson City Council is expected to vote tomorrow on a resolution asking the state Legislature to support a law that would make future re-authorizations of the Jackson Convention and …

Person of the Day

Sean Sullivan

Sean Sullivan hopes to change federal border and trade policies by organizing a photography exhibit on the harmful environmental affects and habit disruptions from a newly constructed U.S.-Mexico border wall.

Community Events and Public Meetings

6 p.m., Jackson Touchdown Club Meeting at River Hills Country Club (3600 Ridgewood Road). Members of the athletic organization meet weekly during the football season and have access to meals, …

Jackblog

Saints Defense Holds Off Steelers, 20-10

Their answer on Sunday night -- maybe, but they'll play with the headache anyway... and get a W.

Going into Sunday night's game, the defending Super Bowl champs of 2009 -- the New Orleans Saints -- were slight underdogs to the Super Bowl champs of 2008 -- the …

Barbour Advocates Cutting U.S. Budget Despite Aid

Despite the federal government's role in helping Mississippi shore up the state budget, Gov. Haley Barbour touted the GOP's promise to cut $100 billion out of the federal budget on …