Sunday, July 31
Why Write? We've Got Computers!
I've been doing too much work in my head and on paper instead of where it actually counts so that people can see it. I didn't realize this until last …
Friday, July 29
Dem Candidates A Minority at ‘Republican Woodstock'
Even though Democratic candidates are the minority at the Neshoba County Fair, many see the Republican-heavy grounds as a vital campaign stop to rub elbows with party supporters, media and …
How Building Green Helps Mississippi
Sustainable building can promote economic development and make life better for residents, according to an organization that is promoting "green building" in Jackson.
Candidate of the Day: Addie Green
In a campaign season when few Democrats and even fewer women are running for state office, African American grandmother Addie Green stands out.
It's the Weekend!
It's a beautiful night of jazz in Fondren that will involve all your senses. Jazz Night Live is at 7 p.m. at circa Urban Artisan Living (2771 Old Canton Road). …
Sales Tax Holiday Begins Today
Back-to-school shoppers will get a boost this weekend during the state's sales-tax holiday.
The tax holiday started just after midnight and continues through midnight on Saturday. Shoppers will save 7 percent on eligible items.
Thursday, July 28
Cult of ‘Objectivity' Is Destroying America
Anyway, here is some of what Krugman says. (Better late than never, I guess.):
So-called media objectivity is destroying our country, The New York Times' Paul Krugman is telling us on his blog. I've been warning about this he-said-she-said approach to journalism for years …
Candidates Reject ‘Career Politician' Label
Political candidates walked a fine line Wednesday at the Neshoba County Fair, trying to persuade voters that they were neither inexperienced nor—a harsh indictment—a "career politician."
District 70 Race Ends With Primary
The race for District 70 this year will again end in the Democratic primary. The race carries some small entertainment value; former Hinds County public defender Matt Eichelberger dropped out …
Lynn Fitch
Lynn Fitch, 49, hopes to become the next treasurer of Mississippi. One of three GOP candidates, she faces Lucien Smith and state Senator Lee Yancey. If victorious, she would then …
Haley Barbour Speaks at Neshoba County Fair (Verbatim Speech)
*Remarks as prepared*
Thank you. Today I will give my last speech at this Fair as Governor. Marsha, who has had to sit through all but one of them, is being patient enough …
Johnson Announces Raises; More Public Safety
Jackson Mayor Harvey Johnson Jr.'s proposed budget address resembled an Oprah Winfrey talk show yesterday when he announced that all city employees will receive a 2 percent raise on Jan. …
Wednesday, July 27
Soulful Journey
Her voice glides through the air like silk. She takes the audience by the heart and leads them on a fantastic, soulful journey with every note. With four Grammy nominations, …
‘The Beat in Herbert Brown's Head'
Before we get started, I have to open up with a bit of disclosure. The topic of this week's column, Herbert Brown, aka James Crow, aka The Ugly Poet, aka …
Cost of a Life
Wes Leonard had just made the game-winning shot to complete a perfect undefeated season for Fennville High School in Michigan on March 3. The crowd cheered as his teammates lifted …
Striving to be Jackson's Best
What do you get when you take a little New Orleans flavor, a touch of Chicago, and top it off with the service and style of a classic steakhouse like …
Stopping Type 2 Diabetes
When I think of a lifestyle associated with daily needle prodding—my incurable phobia—I become terrified of sugary donuts. I know that sinful donut, combined with a diet of other junk …
Here's to the Season
'Tis the season—no, it's not Christmas in July. It's wedding season. I've strapped on my stilettos and made the rounds, toasting happy couples and collecting commemorative koozies.
A Different Brand
Hinds County makes sense to planning consultant Tripp Muldrow. He lived in Baltimore in the 2000s, and while many residents had given up on the city and moved away, a …
Keeping Kids Off the Streets
Jackson Mayor Harvey Johnson Jr. and the Jackson City Council are advocating for a facility in the city to house minors who are not serious offenders as a solution to …
A Fair Policy?
If you serve at the will and pleasure of an elected official in Hinds County or the state, you have signed on for a job without protection if you are …
Hellos and Goodbyes
In an organization the size of the Jackson Free Press, an employee leaving can feel like losing a family member. That is no more true than with Adam Lynch, the …
[Stiggers] What A Wonderful World
Although most will gripe, moan and complain, all I have to say, 'If we had gotten involved and voted, we wouldn't be in this mess today. And the rich will …
Clones Take Lieutenant Governor's Race
The race for lieutenant governor consists of only two serious candidates this year—both Republicans: state Treasurer Tate Reeves and Gulfport Sen. Billy Hewes.
Vol. 9, No. 46
<b>'Yes' on Eminent Domain</b>
Eminent domain has received attention recently, with an effort to put the issue on the ballot this fall. I oppose the ballot initiative because it attempts to change our state's …
2011 Voter Guide
With state primary elections on Aug. 2, the general election on Nov. 8 and national elections in 2012, it is important to know when, where and how to vote. Read …
Challenging No-Bid Contracts
Ron Williams, 52, is a Republican candidate for governor and a vocal critic of what he claims to be state agencies' preferential treatment of contractors who donate to politicians.
Modern Woman
Take a visit to Vikki Mumford's campaign website for Hinds County Circuit Clerk, and you get the feeling that she isn't messing around. To demonstrate her tech-savvy abilities, Mumford's website …
Gulf Coast Survivors
Brandon can lay claim to a new author. Brian Kittrell's first foray into writing yields some admirable results and an ambitious plan for future novels. His first book, "The Dying …
Lady with a Plan
Peggy Hobson-Calhoun is quick to talk about her accomplishments over the last 19 years as a Hinds County supervisor. She began her term as the county's first elected female supervisor …
The War on Math, Part 2: Is the GOP Out of Step with America?
In the continuing GOP/Tea Party "War On Math," the insistence on balancing the budget by cutting spending may be doing serious damage to the Republican Party's credibility -- so says …
Williams: Politicians Benefit from Contracts
Ron Williams, 52, is a Republican candidate for governor and a vocal critic of what he claims to be state agencies' preferential treatment of contractors who donate to politicians.
Why the PSC Race Matters
Few people attend the monthly meetings of the Mississippi Public Service Commission, outside of utility company officials and their host of attorneys. Generally, when the talk is about electricity, gas …
Megan Voos
Almost eight years ago, Megan Voos found herself at a crossroads. She finished a lengthy term as a youth pastor in the San Francisco Bay area but was unsure of …
Truth to Power
I spent last weekend in New Orleans at the Association of Alternative Newsmedia convention. It was held in the posh Ritz Carlton in the heart of the city's business district, …
Sunday Arthouse
My first day as a brand new Jacksonian was a Sunday. Hailing from Hattiesburg, I was unused to having anything even open on Sundays, much less events I could attend. …
Judge: Advocates Can Visit Detained Youth
The Southern Poverty Law Center and Disability Rights Mississippi have won access to youth held at the Hinds County Henley-Young Juvenile Justice Center. A federal judge ruled Monday that facility …
Tuesday, July 26
City Revisits Teen Curfew
Ward 3 Councilman Kenneth Stokes' proposed ordinances to prevent teen violence ran into a familiar wall yesterday.
Lemuria Challenges Media; Whitwell Calls on Food Truck Supporters
When WAPT ran a story last week suggesting Lemuria Books did not carry titles on local schools' summer reading list, chief bookseller John Evans saw a marketing opportunity. Lemuria staff …
Freelancer of the Month: Larry Morrisey
Larry Morrisey evangelizes musicians who don't fit a mold. His story earlier this year about Delta bluesman Bill Abel, a painter as well as a musician, depicted a side character …
Citizens Police Academy Seeks Applicants
Verbatim statement from city:The Jackson Police Department is urging residents to sign up for the upcoming Citizens Police Academy. The Citizens Police Academy will begin October 3, 2011 and will …
Monday, July 25
Branding Hinds County With Just a Little Snark
What difference could a bold marketing campaign make to Hinds County economic development? Tripp Muldrow, a South Carolina planning consultant, suggests it could make a world of difference.
Council Votes on Food Trucks Tomorrow
Read the proposed ordinance here.
Talamieka Brice
Flip through Graphic Design USA's 250-page publication of award-winning designs, and between designs from Geico, Coca-Cola and Pepsi, you'll find the designs Talamieka Brice made for Methodist Rehabilitation Center. This …
Community Events and Public Meetings
11 a.m., Blood Pressure Checks for Seniors, at Tougaloo Multi-Purpose Senior Citizens Center (318 Vine St.). The city of Jackson and St. Dominic Health Services provides blood pressure checks, and …
Eminent Domain Heads to Court
Hinds County Judge Winston Kidd will hear arguments this morning over a Nov. 8 ballot initiative aimed to prevent the government from taking private land for non-public projects.
Friday, July 22
Gubernatorial Candidates Challenge Bryant at Debate
In a televised debate Thursday evening, candidates for governor sought to distinguish themselves from Lt. Gov. Phil Bryant and position themselves as frontrunners ahead of the Aug. 2 primary.
Operation Understanding Visits Jackson
Sixteen high school kids from Philadelphia, Pa., brought their mission to "share, unite and inspire" to Koinonia Coffee House this morning.
It's the Weekend!
Tonight, we suggest you get your fundraising on. You have a choice of three events to attend. The American Cancer Society's Jamaica Me Crazy beach party begins at 7 p.m. …
Tripp Davis
Tripp Davis has become a modern Renaissance man. The Ridgeland native, 27, is an accountant, fitness instructor and Ironman competitor. The 2006 graduate of Delta State University was also an …
Thursday, July 21
The Great Debate: Who Won?
If you watched the gubernatorial debate on WLBT, share your thoughts here. Who do you think was the best debater, and why? Who didn't do so well? Do you have …
Branding Process Focuses on Perception
Several residents offered suggestions last night for a bold marketing campaign to change the state's perception of Hinds County.
Sheriff Candidate's Campaign Reports Corrected
The Hinds County Sherriff campaign contributions listed this week's Jackson Free Press interview with Hinds County Sheriff Malcolm McMillin are incorrect. Several of the contributors listed are actually disbursements from …
Vivian L. Fuller
Vivian L. Fuller understands what it takes to lead athletically as well as academically.
Wednesday, July 20
Fighting Stereotypes
Country-music fans wearing in cowboy boots, hats and tight jeans walked into the Mississippi Coliseum. The dim room did not dull the crowd's excitement. Restless Heart would play later. A …
Awesome Music is Awesome Music
Jackson has been blessed with numerous concerts lately, and while I have in the past "wallered and hollered" about how we don't get enough national acts to come to the …
Help Your Head
Since its inception, football has been a violent game that takes a physical toll on the athletes who play it.
Cosmo Tots and Blithe and Vine
Casual, elegant and modern. That's how Cosmo Tots and Blithe and Vine co-owner Liz Spratlin describes her well-lit and simply decorated store. Tammy Wynette plays softly in the background, enhancing …
It's Too Damn Hot
This summer has been exceptionally hot. I could survive on shredded wheat and Edy's pomegranate popsicles this time of year, but that's not being a proper role model for the …
The Greatest Cause
It was my final semester in college, and I arrived in the Pendleton Learning Center for BA 465, Human Relations and Values. The class would help me finish my graduation …
Debt Ceiling Debate Hits Home
Jackson City Councilwoman Margaret Barrett-Simon expressed concern this week over what Congress' debt ceiling debate will mean for the council's decision to restructure its bond debt.
Travels With Chickens
It started out as a typical yellow school bus. When six Mississippi teens were done with it, the bus had turned into a colorful "Farm on Wheels," with a cheery …
Job Trainer Loses Job
One month ago, Machelle Kyles was busy preparing to train another wave of job seekers at Florida-based Paxen Learning Corp.'s office in Jackson. Now, the former program coordinator is job-hunting …
[Stiggers] Teachable Moment
In the meantime, it's up to us to be positive and continue a good relationship with our loyal customers by honoring the Jojo's Discount Dollar Store slogan: 'In the ghetto, …
It's Up to Us to ‘Rebrand' City
This week, in preparation for our big Jackpedia student/newcomer guide in August, we asked Facebook friends to share the city's "best-kept secrets" to include them in Jackpedia (and at http://www.jackpedia.com). …
[Kamikaze] Professional Politicians
I cringed when I heard the president utter the words. As his quote was continuously bandied about the Internet, I became even more disappointed. Barack Obama had become the very …
[Purvis] Do Unto Others
I am fortunate I haven't had to resort to drastic measures to stay afloat. I know others aren't so lucky.
A Matter of Money
Retired Mississippi Bureau of Investigation Lt. Johnnie Bowden, 58, says he's running for sheriff and plans to put new emphasis on drug-related crime prevention in the county.
Billy the Exterminator
If you are familiar with the Arts & Entertainment Channel, or A&E, then you've probably caught a glimpse of real-life exterminator Billy Bretherton who faces insects and much larger pests. …
Rising and Converging
"Grace" is one of those words I struggle with. There are the simplistic, surface definitions like charm or loveliness. I tend to find it a complicated word, though, filled with …
Miss. Power Wants $900,000 for Jet Fare
A corporate utility wants to charge private jet expenses to ratepayers, and Northern District Public Service Commissioner Brandon Presley wants to forbid it.
Dunn's Family Circuit
Barbara Dunn wakes up at 4 a.m. every day, makes a cup of coffee, watches the news and then heads to the Hinds County Circuit Clerk's office where she prepares …
Minnie Watson
Minnie Watson still remembers the day she met Medgar Evers in 1961. She was attending Campbell College, an all-black private college in Jackson, when Evers came to speak to their …
Branding Meetings Start Today
Hinds County will hold public meetings during a three-day process to brand the county this week.
Earlier this year the Hinds County Economic Development Authority signed a $10,000 contract with the urban-planning firm, Arnett Muldrow & Associates, to develop a brand for Hinds County. Tripp Muldrow, …
Tuesday, July 19
Water Rates Safe for Now, Johnson Says
Jacksonians likely will not see hikes in their water or sewer bills this year now that the Jackson City Council voted to refinance the city's bond debt, Mayor Harvey Johnson …
Bloomberg: Jackson 11th Strongest Economy
CORRECTION: We described circa, a store in Fondren, incorrectly. We should have said it is a lifestyle store.
Lauren Fredman
Lauren Fredman of Jackson sat with 24 other educators in a Boston, Mass., classroom last week at the opening of the Jewish Women's Archive's Summer Institute. They came to explore …
UMMC Receives Nursing Grant for Delta
The University of Mississippi Medical Center has received a $450,000 grant from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation to provide Delta residents with oral health care and health education.
Monday, July 18
Council Debates Debt Restructuring Plan Today
Jackson Mayor Harvey Johnson Jr. will brief the Jackson City Council again today on the details surrounding restructuring a portion of the city's water and sewer bond debt.
Water Line Project Begins
Jackson officials broke ground this morning on a $3.5 million infrastructure project that will increase the city's water supply.
Keith Kornfeld
Silky Cambodian Saraman curry and kaffir lime creme brulee might be out-of-the-ordinary culinary choices for a chef from New Orleans, but Keith Kornfeld has made Southeast Asian cuisine his specialty …
Don't forget the little things
It's the little things.
I started interning at the JFP amid a buzz of activity preparing for the annual Chick Ball. Stacks of donations for the charity auction collected in almost every available corner, …
Community Events and Public Meetings
Mission Mississippi Prayer Breakfasts. The organization's purpose is to promote racial healing and unity. Free;
City Partners with Midtown Development
The city of Jackson is offering additional funds to help an affordable housing project in the Midtown Community.
Friday, July 15
The Topic Was Wondering
Hello Worldwide Web! JFP Intern Alexis G., here.
Step Into the Mind of Alexis G.
JSU Offers Grant Help; Small Biz Assistance
Jackson State University's Center of Business and Economic Development offers a wide array of services to help small businesses and nonprofits thrive in Jackson.
Emergency Calls Begin; Jackson Makes ‘Top 100 List'
City officials can warn residents directly about fallen trees and broken power lines during storms and other emergencies. A new system quickly delivers messages by phone to targeted areas of …
Vivica A. Fox
Clapping her hands and laughing with delight, actress Vivica A. Fox smiled as a group of children and teens showed her the cheers they had learned to welcome her to …
It's the Weekend!
Tonight, the Mississippi Braves play the Tennessee Smokies, and it's sure to be a spectacular game. The excitement starts at 7 p.m. at Trustmark Park (1 Braves Way, Pearl) and …
Thursday, July 14
Originality
I silenced a sleepy yawn as I sat on the red chair in the Jackson Free Press office, waiting for my interview with Ronni Mott concerning my summer internship. I …
Johnson Unveils Jobs Initiative; Ambassador Program
Jackson Mayor Harvey Johnson Jr. unveiled a new jobs program to increase employment opportunities for Jacksonians during his State of the City address at the Jackson Medical Mall yesterday.
Plan Calls for Biking, Walking
The Central Mississippi Planning and Development District's new $3.5 billion long-range transportation plan emphasizes biking and walking as alternative forms of transportation.
Linda Rush
Linda Rush is passionate about establishing equal educational success for all children and making a difference for the young people in the Jackson area.
Wednesday, July 13
nomiSpa at the Fairview Inn
As your wedding day approaches, it is important to not let your life get too consumed by those emotions and take some time to relax. Why not enjoy a day …
Sweating Together
How do you combine socializing and exercise? Take multi-tasking to a whole new level and throw a fitness party. Whether it is with your friends, family, church or your co-workers, …
Zoo Brings Tour to Jackson
When they perform, the visual is as interesting as the sound. With a stage full of shiny instruments, Ammo Eisu and Andy Tisdall of the band Zoo put on a …
Blues Cowboy
Grady Champion approaches the microphone like a gun fighter ready to take you out. His belt, laden with harmonicas in various keys, one for each of the keys he sings …
"For the People"
One of my main concerns has always been being cool. It is certainly debatable if I achieve that, but I do put a good amount of thought into presenting myself …
Kelly's Picks
Are you in need of a little help with your special day? Kelly Pickerill, front desk manager at Lemuria Books, front desk manager at Lemuria Books, suggests these helpful titles.
Sweat Together: The Menu
What you eat after you exercise is vitally important. You've worked so hard to burn calories, now take it easy with a light meal. And remember, small portions are best.
Johnson Gives State of the City Address
During his State of the City address this afternoon, Jackson Mayor Harvey Johnson Jr. touted his administration's progress over the last year and unveiled a "Jobs for Jacksonians" initiative to …
Sweat Together
Now that you've decided to have a fitness party, it's time to go shopping. For a yoga-themed party, we found some great items just for the occasion.
Turning It Off
Independence. We celebrated ours as a country this month with fireworks, food and a welcome break from work. Did I have a great time watching the fireworks at the Jackson …
McGowan Reveals New Lake Specifics
Jackson oilman John McGowan said Monday that his latest lake plan will cost about $150 million and require the use of eminent domain to "condemn" some property into a "public …
Council Holds Off on Debt Vote
The Jackson City Council's decision to put off a vote to restructure the city's bond debt and save approximately $6 million over the next two years resulted in friction between …
Gannett's Cut and Paste
After The Clarion-Ledger laid off four journalists June 21, ads appeared on the national job site JournalismJobs.com seeking four new journalists at Gannett Co.'s Jackson newspaper.
Should Justice Court Judges Be Lawyers?
Attorney Micah Dutro says the District 1 Justice Court seat needs a judge with a law degree.
Time to Decide
The one complaint we hear most often these days is this: Washington lawmakers are out of touch with the people they purport to represent. So how did we get here? …
[Stiggers] Poor Folks' Last Supper
The Ghetto Science Community Bureau of Parks, Museums and Cultural Affairs decided to have a 'Great Wall of Artistic Expression' built within the Clubb Chicken Wing Multi-Purpose Complex. This wall …
Vol. 9, No. 44
<b>The Rose of South Jackson</b>
One of those myths is race. We humans are the only creatures to have a brain accommodating vivid imaginations, and since different groups of us look differently and have developed …
[Anderson] One Simple Act
Having a world that was new to me waiting around every corner was exciting and appealing.
Independent Candidates
Hoping to attract voters who are undecided in voting for Democrats or Republicans, Independent candidates are looking for a piece of the political pie.
The GOP Gubernatorial Field
Most Republicans in Mississippi's statewide elections can be easily confused with one another in terms of their platforms. There are some differences between them, however, that could prove to be …
Cover
Democrats: The Mayor or the Businessman?
Bill Luckett and Johnny DuPree, Democratic candidates for governor in Mississippi, resembled long-time acquaintances more than they did political opponents during a debate at the University of Mississippi July 6.
The Past Two Months…
When I was first deciding where to intern, my immediate choice was the JFP. My sister's boyfriend, Jonathan O'Keefe, was an intern here a couple of years ago, and my …
The Viking Classic is Set to Tee Off Thursday
In 2009 the Viking Classic was cancelled to due rain and Mississippi missed out on hosting its only PGA event. This 2011 edition of the Viking Classic is a make …
The Truest Words You Know
When Columbia University professor Manning Marable passed away April 1, three days before the publication of "Malcolm X: A Life of Reinvention" (Viking, 2011, $30), he had already long since …
The Hinds County Armory
Recently, I visited the Hinds County Armory, which is located on the State Fairgrounds. The building has characteristics of the gothic revival in architecture, and it is fairly obvious that …
Amos: ‘I'm needed' as Supervisor
Robert Amos doesn't give up easily. The 37-year-old lost the Jackson mayoral race in 2009, but he is determined to replace Hinds County District 3 Supervisor Peggy Calhoun in the …
Clarion-Ledger Hiring?
After The Clarion-Ledger laid off four journalists June 21, ads appeared on the national job site JournalismJobs.com seeking four new journalists at Gannett Co.'s Jackson newspaper.
Wendell Watts
Jackson Police Department's Precinct 4 Commander Wendell Watts' uncle, Wayne Black, told him that he could expect one of two things to happen when he began his law enforcement career. …
Women, Grab the Wheel
"We're over capacity." I looked at the JFP staffer who told me this last Saturday night just as we were getting ready to auction off the "Men of Character at …
Paul Collins and the Power of Pop
Music fans around the world admire Paul Collins, but he's not sitting still to receive their praise. The New York City-based guitarist and singer has been recording and performing for …
Museum of Art Receives Federal Grant
The National Endowment for the Arts awarded the Mississippi Museum of Art with a $150,000 grant yesterday for the museum's upcoming Art Garden.
Tuesday, July 12
Council Re-Elects Bluntson; Holds off on Finances
Jackson City Council President Frank Bluntson considered putting off the council's required election for president at this morning's meeting but reluctantly went ahead with the vote after the city's legal …
Capitol Street Eats; Public Art Coming Soon
Owner Shonda Harris is moving her bakery and catering business from Northpark Mall in Ridgeland to downtown Jackson.
Interns of the Day: Christy Dawson and Rachel Bush
After 240 hours, two design interns at the Jackson Free Press complete their university's requirements today.
Jacksonian and Proud
"There's nothing to do here."
Born and raised in Jackson, I've heard it said a million times. Though I hear it mostly from my school-aged peers, there are probably an equal number of adults who …
Monday, July 11
Lake Developers Detail Plan, Hope for Corps Blessing
A Jackson oilman who has long lobbied for ambitious development along the Pearl River in Jackson is hoping that the U.S. Corps of Engineers will give at least an initial …
400 Teens Attend Hip-Hop Summit
The halls of Jackson State University's T.B. Ellis Gymnasium filled with the chatter of high-school kids this weekend when more than 400 teens convened for the ACLU's Youth Hip-hop Summit. …
Lindsey Horton
Jackson native Lindsey Horton has been deputy chief of the Jackson Police Department for a decade, a feat unheard of before in the department. Medals, documents and trophies decorate his …
Community Events and Public Meetings
Blood Pressure Checks for Seniors. The city of Jackson and St. Dominic Health Services provides blood pressure checks, and heat and skin care awareness information to qualifying individuals ages 55 …
Public Hearings for Ballot Initiatives Set
The Mississippi Secretary of State's Office will give citizens the opportunity to discuss three initiatives appearing on the Nov. 8 ballot.
Saturday, July 9
The JFP Chick Ball is TONIGHT, Will Honor Hero Police Officer
JACKSON, MISS. – On Saturday, July 9, Jacksonians from all walks of life will unite to celebrate women and support the fight against domestic violence and at the seventh annual …
Friday, July 8
Farish Street Shows Progress
Farish Street regained its critical connection to Amite Street last week, providing a small boost to ailing businesses in the historic district.
‘We Can Stop This'
A few weeks ago, the Center for Violence Prevention received a phone call from a hospital employee in Yazoo City. The hospital was about to release a woman who had …
Cory Maye
Cory Maye will finally be a free man after serving 10 years in jail for a twisted murder conviction. Circuit Judge Prentiss Harrell of the 15th Judicial District of Mississippi …
It's the Chick Ball Weekend!
With the JFP's 7th Annual Chick Ball Saturday night, this is one of the hottest weekends of the summer. Dresses, hair, music, friends--and, yes, of course that includes the men. …
Choctaws To Hold New Election
Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians is having a new election after a tribal member appealed the June 14 election.
[Column] Climate Change: Follow the Scientists
James McClintock, a renowned University of Alabama-Birmingham marine biologist who has conducted research in Antarctica for more than 25 years, told me the following story.
Thursday, July 7
Luckett, DuPree Push Education, Business Help
Mississippi's two leading Democratic gubernatorial candidates found much to agree on yesterday during their first one-on-one debate. Clarksdale attorney and businessman Bill Luckett and Hattiesburg Mayor Johnny DuPree both touted …
City Breaks Ground on New JATRAN Facility
The new JATRAN facility at the corner of Highway 80 and Valley Street will be an important stepping stone in the revitalization of the Highway 80 Corridor, Jackson Mayor Harvey …
Will Grossenbacher
At 22, Will Grossenbacher is already the owner and proprietor of Union Street Books in Canton with a classic, antique atmosphere.
Women's Commission Welcomes New Members
The Mississippi Commission on the Status of Women welcomed five new members yesterday at the state Capitol.
Wednesday, July 6
JFP Chick Ball Auction Guide
Shopping never felt so good! The JFP Chick Ball will feature a silent auction on donated items to raise money for the Center for Violence Prevention. A definite highlight of …
Zac Harmon Blues
<b>UPDATE: Ticket price for the event now $15.</b>
Voted Best New Blues Artist by XM Radio, Jackson native Zac Harmon certainly gets back to his roots in his music. Harmon's cool blues sound is reminiscent of blues giants …
Crossing the Street
One night when I was a teenager, a terrified woman showed up at our front door. "Help me," she begged, crying and looking over her shoulder toward the house across …
The Healing Power of Music
Ten years ago, my world was forever changed when my ex-boyfriend decided if I didn't want to be with him, he would teach me a lesson by coming to my …
Sweet Thangs
Whitney Maxwell has had a passion for cooking since she was a tot in her mother's kitchen. A native of Jackson, the 27-year-old graduated from Ole Miss in 2007 and …
Chick Ball Bling
Often for special occasions, we'll find the perfect dress but forget the accessories. Once again, y'all are in luck because jewelry is my thing. Where most people advise that less …
New Laws Help Abuse Victims, More
Judges can add an extra level of protection for victims of domestic abuse under House Bill 196, which Gov. Haley Barbour signed in March.
Please Help
In a wonderful act of synchronicity, the Jackson Free Press, the Center for Violence Prevention and its director, Sandy Middleton (story), all found one another back in 2004. Under Middleton's …
[Stiggers] Re-educate the People
"We're fed up with the present government regulations that force us to give more to the poor. We've seen enough of the under classes rising up and making history. The …
[Kamikaze] Here's to You
My youngest daughter is now 15 months old. Though it's been fun to share all her adorable moments with you guys via Facebook, my thoughts often turn to more serious …
[White] The War at Home
After my uncle's first deployment, he was a different person. His temper was short, and he berated my aunt about the changes she made in his absence. He wanted her …
Cover
Woman on a Mission
Standing an easy 6 feet tall in her fashionable beige wedge sandals, Sandy Middleton strode into the Copiah County sheriff's station. She breezed past the unmanned reception desk, barely pausing, …
Chicks We Love
For years now, the Jackson Free Press has chosen and honored a slate of amazing women each year, a line-up we cheekily refer to as "Chicks We Love."
[Hero of the Year] Sgt. Reginald L. Cooper
Following a childhood incident in which he encountered a police officer with a terrible attitude, Sgt. Reginald L. Cooper vowed that he would become a police officer himself and would …
Men of Character
The JFP's Chick Ball's Men of Character live auction gives bidders a chance to compete for Jackson's finest men while supporting a good cause. The men are donating the talents …
Silver Lining
Torch in hand, Lil McKinnon-Hicks bends thin silver cords into earring wires. She drips metal until it forms a small ball. She hammers out bracelets and solders two metals to …
Myles Cast
Jackson State University theater professor Yohance Myles is acting with Bruce Willis and rapper-turned-actor 50 Cent.
JPS Budget Full of Unknowns
With all the attention surrounding Superintendent Lonnie Edwards' departure from Jackson Public Schools last week, one could be forgiven for missing the district's budget passage for the 2011-2012 school year.
Mobile Food Vendors May Serve Soon
Mobile food vendors may be serving tacos and burgers in the downtown area by the end of July.
Ben Ellard
Last week Ben Ellard assisted a victim through the court system so she could get a protective order against her abusive husband. The woman's spouse had prevented her from having …
Tuesday, July 5
New Study Uncovers Lagging State Response to Autism
A new advisory committee calls on Mississippi to establish intervention programs for children with autism or suffer higher costs as autism sufferers enter adulthood.
Belhaven Park Wins Award; Hinds Branding Meetings Set
During its annual awards ceremony June 28, the Mississippi Main Street Association named Belhaven Park the best public-private project is the state.
Cindy Hughes Meehl
Hauntingly awe-inspiring is one way to describe the story of Buck Brannaman, known to the world as the inspiration for "The Horse Whisperer." One Jackson native has set out to …
State Gets More AmeriCorps Volunteers
About 70 corps members of the AmeriCorps National Civilian Community Corps Southern Region will arrive in Mississippi tomorrow to begin 10 months of community service and leadership development.
Friday, July 1
Catching the Poopetrator
What do you do when you neighbor's dog keeps making "deposits" in your yard, but the owner won't take responsibility for it? How about a DNA test?
Yes, We're Still Taking Donations for the July 9 JFP Chick Ball—Donate Until July 8!
We hope you'll be a part of the biggest JFP Chick Ball ever on July 9, 2011, at Hal & Mal's (see http://www.jfpchickball.com). The silent auction is already huge; click …
Victims May Monitor Abusers Under New Law
New bills passed during the 2011 legislative session are going to officially kick off this month, and will likely have powerful effects on the state this year.
Perkins Shares His Faith and Passion
No one tells the story of John Perkins quite like Perkins himself. This morning, the author of nine books shared his story about growing up black in rural Mississippi in …
Zakiya Summers
Zakiya Summers knows what's happening at the Jackson Medical Mall. "Call us the landlord," Summers said as she described her role at the Medical Mall. As the internal relations coordinator …
It's the Fourth of July Weekend
Today is an uplifting start to the Fourth of July weekend if you plan on visiting Celebrate American Balloon Glow at Northpark Mall, an event filled with music, food, and …
City Sets Public Hearing for Gates
Read the ordinance
