Friday, October 29
Thompson Retains Advantage in Second District
Second Congressional District U.S. Rep. Bennie Thompson has the financial edge on campaign contributions and political action committee money this year as he cruises into the November elections against his …
Court Overturns Fulgham Death Sentence
The Mississippi Supreme Court has overturned a death sentence for Kristi Fulgham and ordered a new sentencing hearing for her 2003 murder conviction. The court issued a decision yesterday finding …
Chad King
Standing on stage wearing a sparkly corset, a pearl necklace and glossy red lipstick, Chad King is the quintessential Dr. Frank-N-Furter in Fondren Theater Workshop's "The Rocky Horror Show."
It's the Weekend: Boo!
Halloween weekend is packed full of festive events, costume contests and parties. Tonight, join the Jackson Bike Advocates for the second-annual Halloween Community Bike Ride. Meet for the eight-mile ride …
Officials Aware of Cement Flaws Before Spill
The cement fixture Halliburton officials used to seal the bottom of a BP well in the Gulf of Mexico did not meet industry standards, The New York Times reported Thursday.
Shoulda, Woulda, Coulda
In a recent JFP Radio broadcast, Todd played a song by Vasti Jackson called "My Computer Turned On Me." I can really relate to this right now since my eMac …
Thursday, October 28
Hosemann, Hood Push Pre-K Education
Early childhood education is central to safeguarding Mississippi's economic future agreed Republican Secretary of State Delbert Hosemann and Democratic Attorney General Jim Hood in separate speeches today. The two officials' …
Service Cuts Worry Disabled
Mississippi Coalition for Citizens with Disabilities representatives are concerned that a private company's reduction of vehicles means fewer options for disabled citizens who need transportation to doctor's appointments, grocery stores …
Andy Muchin
Andy Muchin didn't expect to spend his life researching and writing about his Jewish heritage, but his experiences working at a Jewish community newspaper in Wisconsin became the catalyst for …
Smoking Ban Decreases Heart Attacks
The city of Hattiesburg decreased heart attacks by 13 percent since passing a city-wide smoking ban in 2007, a Mississippi State University study released yesterday found.
Wednesday, October 27
Nandy's Candy: Land of the Sweet
From the moment you walk in the door, bags of candy greet you. Behind wooden candy cases are assortments of green, yellow and pink candy jars, and as many chocolates …
Melanie's: The Sweet Story
The smell of freshly baked cookies hits you as you walk in. To your left are biscotti; to your right are muffins, cupcakes and lemon squares. Directly in front stands …
[Natalies's Notes] Fly The Musical Freak Flag
The past two weekends, I let my musical freak flag fly by catching four great concerts.
The Best In Sports In 7 Days
Doctor S sez: Brett Favre has a busted ankle, and the NFL is on his trail. Watch out, Patriots.
Ghost a Halloween Party
"Double, double toil and trouble; Fire burn, and caldron bubble. ... Eye of newt, and toe of frog, wool of bat, and tongue of dog."
Fright Night Fashions
There's nothing wrong with dressing up in a costume to have a little Halloween fun if that's what you're into. But if you're like a lot of folks, you'd rather …
The Jackass Factor
God has a special corner of heaven for the people who cut hair—those people who manage to make us look stunning despite all the silly blather they must hear every …
PEER to Levee Board: Move Faster!
The Rankin-Hinds Pearl River Flood and Drainage Control District's navel-gazing on flood control along the Pearl River this month drew fire from he Joint Legislative Committee on Performance Evaluation and …
‘I Am Emmett Till'
Hank Thomas knew he was going to die. He only questioned how. As the Ku Klux Klan attacked and bombed the bus he was riding through Anniston, Ala., with 12 …
Bring Early Voting to Mississippi
Elections are already underway for more than 3 million Americans who have access to early voting. What we're wondering at this point is why not us?
[Stiggers] Head Up; Wig On
BoneQweesha Jones: "Greetings, Hair Did University students and faculty. I scheduled this special assembly to remind you to go to the polls and vote. I know some of you are …
[Kamikaze] Re-Shaking Things Up
Even I get discouraged. As much as I champion Jackson, there are times that its outdated vestiges rear their ugly heads. There are times when the corporate status quo takes …
[McLaughlin] More Female Candidates, Please
Whenever I meet a smart, progressive Mississippi woman who gets her opinion across, remains firm but compassionate and has the ability to inspire others, I find myself ecstatically blurting out: …
Mississippi Children's Museum Gives Sneak Peak
The rain didn't stop construction or hinder the excitement at the Mississippi Children's Museum this morning. Members of the media gathered at LeFleur's Bluff State Park today for a sneak …
Meet the Judicial Candidates
Here are the judicial candidates in the running for Hinds County.
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Are Judges Up for Sale in Mississippi?
In October, the U.S. Supreme Court refused to address an appeal by convicted Mississippi attorney Paul Minor and former judges Walter "Wes" Teel and John Whitfield, who a U.S. District …
Providing Structure
Bill Skinner didn't expect to be a youth court judge. A former Jackson police officer and Hinds County Justice Court judge, Skinner wanted to hear adult criminal cases when he …
‘The Ability to Discern'
Bruce Burton takes pride in his background. The Shaw native grew up on a farm, worked a variety of jobs and studied several subjects before obtaining his law degree in …
Playing it Straight
Anyone who enjoys zombie movies and fiction with more than a passing interest should recognize John Russo's name and won't be disappointed to read "Undead" (Kensington Publishing, 2010, $14.95). He …
Coming Together
Man-about-town Edward Saint Pé is a vibrant personality who eschews labels. His accomplishments range from TV weatherman to business entrepreneur to moviemaker to film actor. Most recently, he's added to …
Spook Country: The Two Sides of Jesse Dayton
His born name is Jesse Dayton. He grew up around music and has performed with some of the best-known country singers in the industry: Kenny Rogers, Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, …
The Beauty of Horror
You've heard of it, but maybe you've never been curious enough to find out more. "The Rocky Horror Show" is a fall must-see with its lovey-dovey couple, monsters and a …
Horror Hit List
If you choose to stay in on All Hallow's Eve, here are some suggestions for frightful listening, creepy reading and horrific viewing.
Making Darkness Light
She's violent and spoiled, and no one wants anything to do with her. She's also deaf, blind and brilliant. It all plays out onstage in "The Miracle Worker," written by …
Mental Health Funding Under Knife
Advocates for a state-funded mental hospital in Newton are pleading with state legislators to keep its doors open next year.
‘Where the Glitch Is'
Bill Gowan wants to make his temporary post on the Hinds County Circuit Court more permanent. Currently serving as a special circuit judge, Gowan hears serious drug and violent-crime cases …
Heath Patterson
Heath Patterson is ready for Halloween. This year, he's making an appearance as Richie Tenenbaum of "The Royal Tenenbaums" with the perfect accessory: the quintessential brown beard.
Tuesday, October 26
Judge Rules in Favor of Personhood Amendment
Read the ruling (PDF)
An initiative asking voters to decide if the state Constitution should define when life begins can be placed on the 2011 ballot, Hinds County Circuit Court Judge Malcolm Harrison ruled …
Ayers Endowment to Ask Legislature for Funding
The Ayers Endowment Committee may ask the state Legislature to supplement a diminishing endowment used to fund three historically black universities.
Obesity, Restaurant News
Leading lawmakers, medical researchers and health-care professionals will convene on Jackson Nov. 9 through Nov. 11 for the Global Obesity Summit 2010. Sponsored by the the University of the Mississippi …
[Balko] America's Most Successful Stop Snitchin' Campaign
Last month when U.S. District Judge Julie Robinson awarded Baron Bowling $830,000 for the beating he suffered at the hands of a Drug Enforcement Administration agent in 2003, she went …
Dr. Kim Hoover
A University of Mississippi School of Nursing search committee affirmed the leadership abilities of Dr. Kim Hoover this month by choosing her to serve as dean.
Mississippi State's Cowbells May Stop Ringing
The Southeastern Conference has warned Mississippi State University officials that ringing cowbells during football games will likely bring fines because it breaks the league's noise-making policy, The Washington Post reported …
Monday, October 25
Baby Steps
So when we first talked about doing this wellness blog, I was super excited! But I quickly fell off the wagon. And instead of getting up and trying again, I …
Justice Groups Join Appeal in Death Penalty Lawsuit
A challenge to Mississippi's system for representing those convicted of capital crimes has picked up some high-profile supporters. The Magnolia Bar Association and Mississippi Center for Justice filed a friend-of-the-court …
Teen Pregnancy Highest in the South; Mississippi
Compared to the rest of the nation, the South shows some of the highest teen pregnancy rates, an Oct. 22 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention study finds.
Jara Miller
As the vice president of family services for the Metropolitan YMCA's of Mississippi, Jara Miller has witnessed the toll the economic downturn has taken on families.
Community Events and Public Meetings
5:30 p.m., Venture Incubator Open House and Seminar at Regions Plaza (210 E. Capitol St.). The seminar for business owners and entrepreneurs provides information on how the Venture Incubator can …
Our Families Can't Afford to Stay Home on Election Day
If you're like me, this election doesn't feel anything like 2008. The excitement and hope of that historic election have been replaced by worry and disappointment. The 2008 campaigns at …
Friday, October 22
Wiseman: Increase Taxes for Economic Recovery
Mississippi must address its budget problems at both ends of the state's cash flow by raising taxes and cutting spending, Stennis Institute of Government Executive Director Marty Wiseman said today …
Mississippi Lacks Data on Minority Contracts
Sen. John Horhn, D-Jackson, said the state has no means of determining adequate minority participation in public contracts.
Garrison Starr
Folk rock/ indie artist and Hernando native Garrison Starr demonstrates her Southern roots through songs that tell rich stories of love and overcoming adversity.
It's The Weekend: Hit the Streets
It's perfect weather for a street festival, and Jackson doesn't disappoint. Already in progress when you read this, Jacktoberfest has taken over Congress Street between Amite and Capitol streets with …
Obama Speaks Out Against Bullying
President Barack Obama took a stand against bullying in a video message released last night.
The message is in response to the recent suicides of young adults who were bullied for being gay. The video appears on the
Thursday, October 21
Fundamentals Not Suspensions is What the NFL Needs For Player Safety
This week the NFL made a midweek decision to start suspending players for helmet to helmet contact. This comes after a weekend of play saw several players leave the field …
PEER: Move ‘Expeditiously' on Flood Control
The Joint Legislative Committee on Performance Evaluation and Expenditure Review released an Oct. 12 report (PDF) urging The Rankin-Hinds Pearl River Flood and Drainage Control District to "expeditiously" make a …
Kevin Hart
Get ready to laugh out loud with comedian Kevin Hart as he rolls into Jackson during his "Laugh At My Pain" tour Oct. 23 at Thalia Mara Hall.
Whitney Place to Rebuild Fondren
Watkins Partners Developer David Watkins says he plans to move ahead with his plans to tear down a 1938 business strip in Fondren, recently used as a movie set in …
Johnson Kicks Off Make A Difference Day
Jackson Mayor Harvey Johnson Jr. announced the city's Make a Difference Day this morning during a press conference at the Jackson Zoo's Livingston Park.
Wednesday, October 20
Wedding Hair Do's
photos by Will Sterling
The forecast for fall bridal hair plays up non-traditional hairstyles, drawing inspiration from Hollywood's red carpet and the fashion runway. This season's hair trends are more sculptured and complex, but …
Royal Blues
Walking down the 300 block of Farish Street, Alex Thomas stops at a historic marker in front of a single-story boarded-up brick storefront.
Vegan: It's What's For Dinner
At 50, Susan Voisin looks as good as many women half her age. She credits that to her vegan diet.
Grill, Interrupted
This past Christmas, I stood on my front porch marveling at my shiny new red propane grill with detachable side shelves and bottle opener. Forget turkey and stuffing: This girl …
The Best In Sports In 7 Days
Doctor S sez: If most Ole Miss fans had their way, Col. Reb would turn the Black Bear into a bearskin rug.
Qi Channel-Surfing
As Dennis Holmes leads me through the dimly lit hall of the Spa at St. Dominic to his treatment room, I am vaguely aware that I am transitioning from a …
With Gentleness and Reverence
When Todd and I used to live in Belhaven, we'd often walk in the mornings. Nearly every morning, we would watch a harried mother--often in a big SUV talking on …
Levee Board Talking Tax Hikes
The Rankin-Hinds Pearl River Flood and Drainage Control District Levee Board may be gearing up for a district expansion to pay for a proposed flood-control plan for the Pearl River.
Managing Conflict
Jeff Weill is accustomed to disagreement. On the Jackson City Council, where he has represented Ward 1 since 2007, he is usually the first and sometimes only member to criticize …
GOP: Avoid Tea Party Kool-Aid
That Lt. Gov. Phil Bryant and many Mississippi Republicans are aligning themselves with the tea party comes as little surprise. Bryant told The Clarion-Ledger last week that tea-party beliefs "are …
[Stiggers] Cutback and Privatize
Mr. Announcement: "On this episode of ‘All God's Churn Got Shoes', the Cootie Creek County School Board spends long hours contemplating cutbacks on various education programs within the school system. …
Facts Matter
I have come to expect this from politicians. It disappoints me, but I no longer expect most politicians to be straightforward. They simplify. They pontificate. They talk in code and …
[Dickerson] Finding Solutions
Growing up in the Delta, I learned that bullies were a dime a dozen.
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Sticks & Stones
Kelsey Ann Jackson threw up. The thought of going to school that morning made her sick. She cried about the mean girls she would have to face in her sixth-grade …
‘I Wanted to Die'
I remember the first time I was ever bullied. I was in kindergarten, and this little girl made fun of my curly hair and thick glasses. I retaliated by putting …
‘They Accepted Me'
After leading a pretty comfortable existence in Gayhead Elementary School, where I'd attended on and off from first grade, fifth grade ended.
NAACP Report Condemns Tea Party Racism
A new report issued by the NAACP finds that the national tea-party movement has resentment about racial and social issues running throughout its many factions. The study, titled "Tea Party …
(Barber) Shop Talk
Until recently, I had not been in a barbershop in nearly 10 years. I have always been a bit lackadaisical when it comes to my hair. For starters, I have …
Rich Enough
I've heard it all my life: America is the best country in the world. Within that framework, it's nearly impossible to understand why conditions for many Americans are so bad.
Mississippi AIDS Assistance Program Not Enough?
Last night, the Jackson city council renewed its 2010 contract agreement with the Mississippi State Department of Health, making temporary rental or mortgage assistance for low-income victims of HIV/AIDS possible. …
Not Bad.
Thanks to ShaWanda, I had a relatively healthy emergency lunch replacement. I came without a mid-day meal (I've been a brown-bagger all my life) and was fully expecting to silently …
Entergy DOJ Investigation Kept Secret
Mississippi Public Service Commissioner Brandon Presley said he is frustrated that Entergy Mississippi was slow to reveal a weeks-old U.S. Department of Justice civil investigation into Entergy Corporations' energy-purchasing practices.
Laughter and Love
Laughter. That's what Tom Ramsey and Kitty Cook-Ramsey, both 44, agree fuels their marriage. Their humor is contagious. I started laughing as I walked into their home and barely stopped …
Nick Mosca
Seven years ago, only four out of every 10 Mississippians drinking public water drank fluoridated water, a basic public-health measure in most states. Today, roughly 55 percent of the state's …
Johnson Asks Adult Nightclub to Take Down Billboards
Read Johnson's letter
Tuesday, October 19
Johnson Pulls Ordinance After Debate
Jackson Mayor Harvey Johnson Jr. pulled a proposed ordinance he introduced after a council member argued during yesterday's work session that it removed power from the city council to appoint …
[Balko] Abolish Drunk Driving Laws
Last week Austin Police Chief Art Acevedo advocated for creating a new criminal offense: "driving while ability impaired." The problem with the current Texas law prohibiting "driving while intoxicated," Acevedo …
Downtown Bodega Opening; King Edward Wins Award
The recently opened Standard Life building will soon have a New York-style grocery store and deli. Gwin Wyatt and her husband, Frank, decided to open the store after her daughter, …
State to Address Minority Business Participation
The state Legislative Joint Study Committee on Minority Business Participation in Public Contracts, Professional Services and Public Works will meet at 2 p.m. at the Capitol today.
Andre Cooley
Andre Cooley says he lost his job because he is gay. Cooley served as a juvenile corrections officer with the Forrest County Sheriff's Department from November 2009 until June 15 …
Monday, October 18
Council to Finalize $2.8M in Bonds
The Jackson City Council will vote during tomorrow's council meeting on whether to allow a $2.8 million tax increment financing agreement help finance the redevelopment of the King Edward Hotel …
Hinds Seeks $400K for Hwy 80
Hinds County has applied for $400,000 to help redevelop brownfield sites along Highways 18 and 80 in Jackson. The county Board of Supervisors approved an application today to the U.S. …
Community Events and Public Meetings
5:30 p.m., The Positive Ones Breast Cancer Support Group Meeting at Baptist Medical Center (1225 N. State St.), in the Hederman Cancer Center. This support group for breast cancer patients …
Leah Vincent
As a psychology major, Leah Vincent was more mesmerized with the brain than hair, but when her friends encouraged her to pursue her hobby of hairstyling, she decided to change …
Sunday, October 17
For Whom the Cowbell Tolls: State Ranked 24th After Beating Gators
Alright now: Mississippi State #24 in Coaches, AP Polls. Them's my dawgs.
Saturday, October 16
NY Times' Bob Herbert on 2008 JFP Report on Barbour's Domestic Murderer Pardons
In his column today, New York Times columnist Bob Herbert writes again about the need for Gov. Haley Barbour to free the Scott Sisters, who are serving life sentences for …
Friday, October 15
Sleep Quick; Let's Dance
http://www.jacksonfreepress.com/v3/images/uploads/FaisDoDo_thumb.jpg
Kristin Versus the Fair
I'm proud to say that I did pretty good as far as my fair-food consumption wishes versus actions goes. The delicious fresh roasted corn was a definite win - hot …
Whitney Place In the Works
Watkins Partners Developer David Watkins said today that his plans for a multi-use development on eight acres of land in Fondren will replace the deteriorating 1930s business strip used as …
Organizer Promotes Downtown Film Festival
Downtown Jackson will come alive this month with the Mississippi Film Institute's Mississippi International Film Festival, local radio producer and Mississippi Film Institute founder Edward Saint Pe told a crowd …
Clancy Walker
When doctor's diagnosed Clancy Walker's 3-year-old son, Grayson, with juvenile diabetes a few months ago, it ignited her desire to raise money and awareness about the disease.
It's the Weekend
This weekend is one to spend with the family, attending events that everybody can enjoy. To start the weekend off, check out the second annual Fais Do-Do tonight, Oct. 15, …
Health-Care Lawsuit Moves Forward
United States District Judge Roger Vinson ruled yesterday that a multi-state lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of the health-care reform law passed by the U.S. Congress earlier this year can move …
Things Get Hot and Heavy on "The View"
What happened on yesterday's show is what makes me contemplate busting my budget to get Tivo. On "The View," during a heated discussion with Bill O'Reilly about the possibility of …
The Other Side of Wellness
When people hear the phrase "health and wellness," they usually think of physical health. However, wellness has a mental component that should not be ignored. Society in general seems to …
Thursday, October 14
EPA Sued over Clean Water Act
The Mississippi Sierra Club is joining a host of organizations to demand that the United States Environmental Protection Agency write new rules regulating the use of oil dispersants and adhere …
Peter Whitham
Peter Whitham is giving Mississippi musicians the opportunity to have their voices and instruments heard.
Bill Clinton Visits Ole Miss
Former President Bill Clinton visits Ole Miss this morning during the "Get Out the Vote" rally with U.S. Rep. Travis Childers.
Wednesday, October 13
Big Shoes to Fill
It was a Tuesday morning, and I was performing my daily morning ritual before I headed to work —checking e-mail and Facebook—when I received a message from my good friend, …
Mississippi Music Live
It's "MTV Unplugged" meets "Inside the Actor's Studio" for musicians, hosted by self-proclaimed Hispanic Redneck, Pete Castorena, and his right-hand man, Bill Kehoe. It's "The Castorena Show"!
The Many Angles of Angleball
Almost every fair-weather week since I turned 13, I've played the same game—angleball. And almost every fair-weather week since I turned 13, I've been asked the same question: "What the …
The Best In Sports In 7 Days
Doctor S sez: What is it about Mississippi guys, the Minnesota Vikings and sex scandals? First it was Fred Smoot, and now it's Brett Favre.
Sizzlin' Hot
Sense of style shouldn't stop after you've dressed. In fact, true style extends beyond closet doors and dressing for special occasions to your home, even your kitchen. When you're playing …
Regarding Herman
Herman Snell was driven. I don't know why--or by what, exactly, but it was fascinating to watch. Herman wanted people to know what was going on in the arts, particularly …
Eyes on Spending
One of the great things about government transparency is its trans-partisan appeal. Conservatives can distrust government just as much as liberals, sometimes more. Still, when it comes to high-tech watchdog …
‘Fair and Even-Handed'
Jackson Municipal Judge Ali ShamsidDeen is not trying to be a politically divisive figure, but his background as a editor of the Jackson Advocate in the 1990s and an associate …
Stop the Lakes-v.-Levees Drama
In recent months, the Jackson Free Press was pleased to see the Rankin-Hinds Levee Board seemingly get unlocked from the years-long Lakes-v.-Levees standoff that had prevented any forward movement toward …
[Stiggers] Property-Owning People
"Welcome to ‘The Finance Pimp Wants His Homes Back Foreclosure Sales' cable-television showcase. Are you gainfully employed? Do you work three jobs? If you answered yes to these questions, come …
[Kamikaze] Getting Control of Our Kids
I watched a piece on "The Today Show" a few days back that really bothered me. As the days have passed, it has still stuck with me.
[Hill] Holy Ground
"Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that, some have entertained angels without knowing it." (Hebrews 13:2).
Historian Explores the Tea Party's Extremist Roots
NPR's Fresh Air Host Terry Gross interviewed historian Sean Wilentz today about his recent article in "The New Yorker" exploring the roots of the Tea Party movement. He writes that …
The Global Table: Multicultural Manners
Every culture has social norms that steer behavioral expectations, and are often guided by religious beliefs and deeply ingrained values. Not surprisingly, they usually make appearances at the table, where …
Fusion Cooking for Fledglings
While I really have no business discussing a "how to" article on fusion cooking, the undeniable fact is that my mother, the ever-lovable Mama Jacqueline, is the greatest fusion chef …
Grandma Zuga
In our household during any holiday or big event, one item on the table was always sure to elicit a bit of mouth-watering awe. Potica ("po-teet-sah"). is a traditional Slovenian …
Ethnic Food Finds
In the urban jungle of the Jackson metro area, we are fortunate to have a bounty of eateries at our disposal. Amidst the pack are the restaurants celebrating the cultural …
Sushi for Beginners
Sushi can be a bit intimidating for beginners. It's foreign and strange; everything has Japanese names; and ohmygod is that eel? Yet, it's become such popular fare that many grocery …
Good Food, Good Stories
Most of the time, I eat my meals without a thought to the history and development of the recipes. But even the simplest of dishes can have a complex history, …
Traveling Taste Buds
In 1998 my husband and I went to Albania and worked with a church that was housing refugees from Kosovo. Being in a communist country was like going from life …
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Tom's Food Diversity Quiz
When I got this assignment, I thought, "No problem. Food diversity sounds pretty simple. I'll hit some soul-food joints, some fish houses, a taqueria or two and put on a …
Property Issues Stall Critical Water Line
Jackson Mayor Harvey Johnson Jr. said the city could have avoided two massive city-wide water failures this year had owners of a historic fishing club not stalled construction of a …
Q&A: Curtis Wilkie on the Wrong Crowd
Author and University of Mississippi professor Curtis Wilkie speaks with a degree of sadness when he references the life of disgraced Mississippi attorney Richard "Dickie" Scruggs.
How to Make Enemies
When award-winning journalist Curtis Wilkie sets out to cover the downfall of Mississippi's foremost trial attorney, he goes at it like a neurotic terrier digging in a graveyard--with a macabre …
One Less Knight
When I brought "Glubbery Gray" (Pelican Publishing, 2010, $16.99) home, my 8-year-old son, Mateo, couldn't wait to take a look. If it's a story about space, superheroes or knights, he's …
Just Art, No Rules
Artist and community activist Teresa Haygood says it's not uncommon for a child to look up from their work In the middle of her mosaic classes and say to her, …
The Brett Favre Story Leaves Us Wondering : Did He or Didn't He
A story broke late last week on the website deadspin.com about former Southern Mississippi and current Minnesota Vikings quarterback Brett Favre. The story accuses Favre of sending racy text messages …
Wicker Defends Obama Against ‘Birthers'
United States Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., found himself defending President Barack Obama against some of the more conservative elements of the tea party during a forum last night. The Central …
Eminent Domain: A Lawsuit Waiting to Happen?
The Mississippi Constitution is a tough thing to change. While state law allows voters to amend the Constitution by approving a ballot initiative, it also prohibits ballot initiatives from changing …
Brian Cartenuto
Char Restaurant Executive Chef Brian Cartenuto was calm and focused as he emerged from a sweltering kitchen during a recent chef's table tasting, which the Jackson Free Press attended at …
Inspiring the Creative Class
The "Mobilizing the Creative Class for Action and Advocacy" conference will give young professionals, 25 to 45 years old, the chance to develop leadership skills, network and build strong communities. …
Tuesday, October 12
Fortification Renewal Set for 2011
Jackson Mayor Harvey Johnson Jr. said he expects construction to begin on the renewal of Fortification Street project by early next year.
Carlton D. Williams
Provine High School Band Director Carlton D. Williams is on top of the world as he reminisces about his school's sweet victory at the Tyson Foods Battle of the Bands …
Help Me Continue to Stomp Out the Stigma of Mental Illness
***UPDATE: NAMI Mississippi has a contest going on now to motivate walkers to raise funds. The walker who raises the most money will win a free night's stay at Rainbow …
Ward 7 Meeting Tonight
Mayor Harvey Johnson Jr. and city department heads will host a ward 7 community meeting tonight at Farish Street Baptist Church (619 N. Farish St.). The meeting starts at 6 …
Big Fair Numbers, Medical Mall Groundbreaking, Creative Class Conference
The Mississippi State Fair is attracting much larger crowds than it did last year, when rain kept attendance low. An estimated 307,052 people attended the fair through Monday, according to …
Monday, October 11
McGowan Confronts Board Over Levee Confusion
Jackson oilman and "Two Lakes" developer John McGowan went before the Rankin-Hinds Pearl River Flood and Drainage Control District Levee Board this morning, demanding clarity over whether the board's one-lake …
State May Receive $13M for Small Businesses
A new federal law offers Mississippi up to $13.2 million to support small-business lending programs through community banks. The State Small Business Credit Initiative, part of the Small Business Jobs …
CJ Rhodes
Tonight bears historical significance for Mount Helm Baptist Church pastor CJ Rhodes who will take part in a discussion about race and the role of the church as his congregation …
Community Events and Public Meetings
6 p.m., Italian Wine Dinner at Cerami's (5417 Lakeland Drive, Suite I). Come experience Italian wines carefully chosen and paired with special Italian recipes. Proceeds benefit Hudspeth Regional Center. A …
Barbour Frequently Out of State
Mississippi Gov. Haley Barbour was out of state all or part of 48 days in July, August and September, The Associated Press reported Saturday.
Friday, October 8
Environmentalists Warn of Wetland Loss; Flood Risk
Two U.S. Supreme Court decisions are endangering Mississippi wetlands and raising the risk of serious floods, environmentalists said during the Clean Water Summit at the Mississippi Natural Science Museum this …
Laid-Off Teachers Hurting Education
Mississippi's public education system faces a difficult future, given persistent funding troubles, state Sen. David Blount, D-Jackson, said today. Speaking at the Jackson Chamber of Commerce's Friday Forum at Koinonia …
Greg ‘Fingers' Taylor
If you've ever heard Greg "Fingers" Taylor play the harmonica, you know that Jimmy Buffett owes much of his success to the Mississippi resident.
It's The Weekend
Start your weekend with a visit to the Downtown Harp & Juke Festival at Underground 119 (119 S. President St.) where you can dance and hear music from artists like …
Roll Off Dumpster Day Tomorrow
The city of Jackson is encouraging residents to take tree limbs, yard debris and unwanted household items to the following locations from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday:
Thursday, October 7
Supreme Court Rejects Kemper Appeal
This story has been updated to reflect a correction.
Read the Supreme Court's decision (PDF, 68 KB)
State Waits on Personhood Ruling
A war of semantics filled Judge Malcolm Harrison's courtroom this afternoon, as opposing parties debated the constitutionality of a 2011 ballot initiative asking voters to determine when life begins.
JFP Freelancer of the Month: Valerie Wells
Her desire to make a difference in the world instinctively drew Valerie Wells to the field of journalism.
Millsaps President Inauguration Today
This morning, Millsaps College inaugurates Dr. Robert W. Pearigen as the college's 11th president.
Pearigen began his term July 1 after Millsaps' Board of Trustees selected him to serve as president earlier this year. Pearigen previously served as vice president for university relations and …
Wednesday, October 6
Of Rucks and Scrums
As I traveled to the Jackson Rugby Football Club practice on a hot and humid Tuesday afternoon, I had no clue what to expect, but I attempted to visualize how …
The Best In Sports In 7 Days
Doctor S sez: Mississippi State and Mississippi Valley State have scheduled a football game for 2013. The Doctor is not counting the days.
Perfection, with a Tweak
Zucchini is a versatile summer squash that comes in yellow and green varieties. You can roast zucchini with a little olive oil and salt, add it to salads, use it …
A New Standard
The first time I stepped into what would be Parlor Market, I had no problems imagining that when the construction crew finished carrying out owner and chef/owner Craig Noone's vision …
The Not-So-Humble Apple
Jackson's blazing summer heat has finally begun to subside; cooler evenings provide much-needed relief; and the first blush of the season has started to tinge the trees along the Natchez …
The Art of Denial
I was a junior in high school when my mom came into my room visibly shaken. "I can't keep doing this. There is going to come a time when we …
Lake Plan Faces Cost Hurdle
U.S. Rep. Bennie Thompson said federal funding to study building a lake on the Pearl River will not be easy to obtain, despite the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' renewed …
Schools Lagging on IDEA Stimulus Spending
Mississippi school districts have one year left to spend the $72 million remaining in a $116 million chunk of federal stimulus money for special education. Schools received the funds in …
‘Trustworthiness and Integrity'
Bridgett Clayton came to the practice of law relatively late, but she has built a varied career in a brief amount of time. The Meridian native studied political science at …
Don't Feed the Stalker
Since the JFP launched eight years ago, we have witnessed many disturbing examples of vicious and personal attacks and libelous smears on websites, our own and others, and usually by …
[Stiggers] Progress Is a Process
Smokey "Robinson" McBride: "Greetings, fellow members of the Ghetto Science community. I want to thank you for your support and tolerance during my term as congressman for the Ghetto Science …
[Dennis] Mimic Registers
It's a postcard-perfect October afternoon, and I am outside enjoying it with my young son. Today, we are sitting together beneath a river birch tree enjoying a cool fall breeze. …
Cover
Domestic Terrorism: Stalked to the Death
Adrienne Klasky knew for years that Michael Graham would kill her. She just didn't know when it would happen.
Madison Mayor Running for State Auditor?
In an interview with Better Mississippi Report yesterday, Madison Mayor Mary Hawkins Butler said she might consider running for state auditor in the 2011 statewide elections. "For the first time …
What's Eating Hip-Hop?
"Fake Records," a mysterious voice says. The music drops, and the chorus begins, "It's bigger than hip-hop, hip-hop, hip-hop!" A crowd of hip-hop heads inevitably goes wild.
Gateway City Classic
Sometimes I read fiction that I can't accurately describe without sounding like I'm shilling for it. Jabari Asim's "A Taste of Honey" (Broadway Books, 2010, $13) falls into that category.
Freshman 15?
When I was in college the first time, I was lucky enough to not gain the Freshman 15. In fact I believe I lost weigh, I walked more and ate …
Personhood Initiative Heads to Court
The outcome of a lawsuit over a 2011 ballot initiative asking voters to define when life begins will come down to whether the initiative requires modifications to the state Constitution.
Due Diligence on Biofuels
Despite a strong show of support from state lawmakers last month, Houston-based startup KiOR is still a long way from breaking ground on the three biofuel facilities it has pledged …
Alan Henderson
After spending the last few years attending school in Washington, D.C., Alan Henderson decided to return to his hometown with the goal of using his experiences to rebuild the city …
Camping At JA
The first time I saw Jeremy Camp in concert was in 2008. Although he's released countless songs featuring hard-hitting guitar riffs and upbeat tempos, the slower worship songs have really …
Voting for Ole Miss Mascot Begins Today
Polls opened at 8 a.m. this morning for University of Mississippi alumni, students, faculty and season ticket holders to vote on a new school mascot.
Tuesday, October 5
Council Approves Judge, Tables Store Ban
This morning, the Jackson City Council confirmed the appointment of former Municipal Judge Gail Wright Lowery as municipal judge pro tempore to preside over the city's new code enforcement.
Loving the Fall!
These 50 degree mornings have given me a new-found energy. I've been waking up at 6 a.m. and going for a walk each day the past couple of weeks. I …
[Balko] Guilty Before Proven Innocent
Last week, USA Today published the results of a six-month investigation into misconduct by America's federal prosecutors. The investigation turned up what Pace University law professor Bennett Gershman called a …
Openings In Fondren, West and South Jackson
Mayor Harvey Johnson Jr. celebrates the opening tomorrow of Fondren Hall, a new events space and conference center on the site of an old Primo's restaurant. The opening marks the …
Dr. Grayson Norquist
University of Mississippi Medical Center professor Dr. Grayson Norquist's years of experience and leadership in the medical field has earned him a seat advising federal health-care reform.
Lesbian Teen's Lawsuit Challenged
Copiah County School district officials are asking a federal judge to dismiss a lawsuit that lesbian teen Ceara Sturgis filed after school officials excluded a photograph of her wearing a …
Monday, October 4
Fall is here!
The weather is amazing right now. Throw on a simple hoodie over your tshirt and you're ready to rock the walking paths. But watch out for the annual coming of …
Hinds Takes Over GPS Monitoring of Juveniles
Hinds County has received $80,000 to use GPS technology to track juvenile offenders under house arrest. The county Board of Supervisors voted today to accept a one-year grant from the …
Supreme Court Rejects Minor and Seale Appeals
This morning The U.S. Supreme Court announced it would not hear the case of Mississippi Attorney Paul Minor and former judges Walter "Wes" Teel and John Whitfield convicted of fraud …
Study Finds Unequal Punishment of Black Students
Black students are twice as likely to get out-of-school suspensions and in some school districts, middle schools are three times more likely to suspend black boys, a new Southern Poverty …
Community Events and Public Meetings
Phi Theta Kappa Blood Drive Oct. 4-6, at Hinds Community College, Raymond Campus (501 E. Main St., Raymond). Donate blood in the donor coach parked in front of the Student …
Big K.R.I.T.
Mississippians will have the opportunity to see some home-grown talent this Friday when Meridian native and hip-hop artist Big K.R.I.T. performs in Jackson.
Mississippi 3rd "Most Socialist" State?
I love me some Business Insider, even when they start making up stuff to drum up page views, like this recent "slideshow" piece. The premise of this piece on "socialist" …
Mabus Pushes for Gulf Funds
In U.S. Navy Secretary Ray Mabus' Coast recovery plan released last week, he recommends that a large portion of BP's penalty money go to the Gulf Coast, The Sun Herald …
Friday, October 1
Jackson Reduces Budget by $5.3 Million
The Jackson City Council approved a final revision to the city's budget containing a total of $5.3 million in budget reductions, after the administration overestimated some department expenditures and increased …
JSU Dreaming of Civil Rights Corridor
John R. Lynch Street, the history-rich thoroughfare running through Jackson State University, could see new life as a civil-rights corridor. JSU leaders floated a vision of the street as a …
Michael Matthews Guidry
As director of New Stage Theatre's Unframed Series, Michael Matthews Guidry is pushing the envelope of traditional theater by bringing mature and edgy productions to Jackson.
Fun for All This Weekend
This evening, begin your weekend with a 3D history lesson as the Raymond Fall Pilgrimage kicks off "Presence with the Past" at the Raymond Cemetery (Port Gibson St., Raymond) at …
I Made Up My Mind, Again
The past two weeks have been crazy: work, essays to write, babysitting, sinusitis... you name it, I had it. Yet, somewhere in the midst of that, I remembered that on …
