Wednesday, November 30
Sweet Pies of Love
My family always prepared for the Thanksgiving or Christmas feasts the day before. They ironed the good tablecloth, polished the silverware, and took the crystal and china out of the …
Spicy for Good Health
Many spices used to season foods also have medicinal powers. Super spices, similar to super foods, are a group of spices that have higher concentrations of essential nutrients. The following …
Hometown Country
Country music songwriter and singer Jeff Maddox has a single getting airplay across the United States and overseas, but so far he hasn't heard his song on radio stations at …
[What's On My Playlist?] Mellow Chill Moments
Brittany Kilgore, JFP editorial intern, enters finals week at Tougaloo College with this study playlist.
‘The Black Codes'
I know, I know. It was just a few months ago that I wrote about Herbert Brown. So why am I doing it again? If you remember, Herbert Brown, 32, …
Losing is Better?
Southern Miss' Bowl Championship Series hopes died when they lost 34-31 to the University of Alabama at Birmingham Nov. 17. The Golden Eagles only had a chance to earn a …
Support the Teams
A journey that began this summer is coming to an end. For six teams, the journey will end in triumph. Six other teams will have their dreams end in Jackson.
Gift Guide for Him
There's no one more fun to shop for (besides myself!) Than my man. But during the holidays ,we sometimes find that we need a gift for the other men in …
‘Come and Eat'
The kitchen was quiet, with only the shuffling of feet filling the silence. Two small girls with dark brown hair, smooth tawny skin and gauzy dresses weaved between the women, …
Repairing the World
When we were first married and new parents, we made a conscious decision to embrace the Jewish practice of tikkun olam with its focus on action and justice. We believed …
Jesus the Radical
It's easy to imagine historical events in the context of our own time, place and worldview. It can be highly deceptive, however, to separate a person, his or her words …
Bridging the Spiritual Gap
In America, approximately 89 percent of people identify with a religion. Faith traditions affect the way people interact with each other and with those not of their religion.
The Jesus of Justice
I'm a Christian. More accurately, I'm a Christian deeply formed by what many would call evangelical and Pentecostal sensibilities. I grew up in a rural Missionary Baptist Church, joined a …
Lord, Have Mercy!
I have been going to church since I was knee-high to a grasshopper. In my nearly 37 years of attending Sunday morning services, Sunday evening services, Bible classes, pastors' anniversary …
Here and Now
"We have an appointment with life that takes place in the present moment." — Thich Nhat Nanh
‘Something Wrong with Your Brain'
The neurologist walked into the room and closed the door quietly behind her. She turned off the lights and went to her computer monitor.
Ring a Bell
At the end of September, I took my vacation in Batesville. Unbeknownst to many--including the majority of Mississippians, I imagine--Batesville is the home to the Magnolia Grove Buddhist Monastery and …
Oil Spill Czar Being Slick?
Jim Hood doesn't pull any punches when it comes to criticizing the Gulf Coast Claims Facility, the agency set up to help people who were hurt by the 2010 BP …
Part-time Occupation
After weeks of debate, the Jackson City Council agreed to a compromise to allow Occupy Jackson protesters to stay at Smith Park later in the evening, although they will not …
Media
Obit for a Flaming Troll
It's getting harder to comment on news stories with an anonymous post. As many readers click on links to get to stories, they have started to notice that once they …
UMMC Hosts Children's Health Study
The National Children's Study, a long-term study of children's health, hosted a ribbon cutting Nov. 10 at the Jackson Medical Mall to highlight research that is taking place in the …
Council: Revisit Free Speech 101
The Jackson City Council voted Tuesday to extend a compromise to the Occupy Jackson protesters, allowing them a permit to stay in Smith Park until 11 p.m., rather than all …
[Stiggers] Bearable, Not Burdensome
Let the Clubb Chicken Wing Staff bring a little joy into your unemployed, foreclosed and repossessed world this Christmas holiday season. The 'new poor' (aka middle class) are welcome, too. …
Vol. 10, No. 12
<b>'Not Your Church'</b>
Somewhere in the fight to stop Amendment 26 (Personhood), I went from just living in Mississippi, home of the entrenched conservative mindset to which I must surrender my hopes of …
Our Anti-tax Governor Just Endorsed Online Sales Tax
I can't say I disagree with this: The Hill is reporting that Haley Barbour endorsed it in a letter to lawmakers today, urging them to close a loophole that lets …
Ouch: Barbour's Advisers Were Embarrassed to Show Him What They'd Dug Up
Imagine being all set to run for president, and your advisers have dug up so much "opposition" dirt on you that they don't have the courage to present it to …
Where's Melton's portrait?
Mayor Harvey Johnson Jr. appears to be taking his time in hanging a portrait of his predecessor up in City Hall. Part of the delay, however, stems from the fact …
Cover
Imam in the Middle
In June 2007, I took a once-in-a-lifetime 12-day trip to Turkey. During our stay, our group visited multiple historic and religious sites. What made this trip different from a typical …
Former Gov. Waller Dies
Former Gov. Bill Waller has died.
Former Gov. Bill Waller has died.
Wingfield's Bounce: A Case Study
Money isn't the only factor in a good education, but $5.2 million doesn't hurt, either.
Garbage to Gigawatts
With Mississippi outpacing other states when it comes to using electricity, a little creativity is necessary to keep up with demand. Increasingly, that means supplementing traditional hydro, coal and nuclear …
Lannie Spann McBride
When Lannie Spann McBride speaks, her voice resonates with tones cultivated by a lifetime of singing the gospel. Her message of faith has touched the hearts of her students, and …
Basic Pop in a Hissing Bubble
Dead Gaze is a pop band hiding under a pile of hiss and distortion. The brainchild of 27-year-old guitarist and singer Cole Furlow, the Oxford-based group employs fractured-sounding guitars, distorted …
Tuesday, November 29
City Compromises with Occupy Protesters
Occupy Jackson will get to spend more time in Smith Park, although protesters will not get to stay overnight, as they had asked.
The Penguin Takes Flight
The Penguin, a restaurant at One University Place, will have its grand opening this Thursday at 3 p.m. The restaurant (1100 John R. Lynch St., Suite 6A) serves a casual …
Michele Purvis Harris
On New Year's Day, Michele Purvis Harris becomes both the first female and the first African American to serve as public defender for Hinds County. Senior Hinds County Circuit Court …
Monday, November 28
Super PAC Man Gobbles Up Regulators' Time, Patience
In the peculiar post-Citizens United world of political money, Josue Larose has assumed a new alter-ego: Super PAC man.
David Guyott
Last week, David Guyott won the Best Paper award at Millsaps College's Arts and Letters Student Research Symposium. This is his second year to win the award. Originally from Schertz, …
Community Events and Public Meetings
6 p.m., Jackson Touchdown Club/C Spire Wireless Most Valuable Senior Awards, at River Hills Country Club (3600 Ridgewood Road). Members of the athletic organization honor athletes from 10 Mississippi four-year …
Friday, November 25
AG Offers Consumer Safety Tips for Cyber Monday
With the holiday shopping season upon us, Attorney General Jim Hood is warning Mississippians to beware of unscrupulous people selling counterfeit or pirated goods, either in person or online. Many …
Wednesday, November 23
[Kamikaze] Just the Messenger
Mississippi, and Jackson particularly, suffers from "shoot the messenger" syndrome. You know: If you don't like the message, just attack the person(s) delivering it. If the message could possibly upset …
The Best In Sports In 7 Days
I would be more thankful if I could get more Tim Tebow on my TV.
Will They Show Up to Play?
Oxford and Starkville haven't had much to cheer about this football season. Ole Miss and Mississippi State have both struggled on the gridiron. Last weekend, highly ranked opponents blew the …
Go Get It, Saints
Sports have taken a serious turn the past couple of weeks. Games on the field have taken a back seat to the scandal at Penn State. The allegations against former …
JFP Top 25: Week 13
It was a weekend of upsets in college football. Four of the top-10 teams in the JFP Top 25 went down to underdogs and, overall, seven teams lost this past …
Marlowe and the Sea
Singer-songwriter Brad Ward, a Jackson native, began writing wry, witty, heartbreaking folk songs a few years back while he was still in college at the University of Mississippi.
Blowing the Roof Off
Baby Jan Smith and Chalmers Davis joined forces in the spring after meeting and working with each other in the choir loft at Wells United Methodist Church. The two hit …
The Best Meal I Ever Ate: Thai House
When it comes to dining in Jackson, the Mao Tod Gathim Prik Thai from the Thai House is a solid entry into the category of the "The Best Meal I …
Just Brew It
In the early, crisp days of winter, after a morning run to unknot my muscles and jolt my brain, my body needs its caffeine fix. Coffee, however, is too harsh …
The Wedding Woman
Walking up to the blond brick building that houses Premier Bride of Mississippi's headquarters, I was nervous. I have interviewed people I respected before, but this felt different. This was …
‘Tis the Season
This is the season for giving—and shopping! With so many local shops and boutiques offering a little bit of everything, shopping for your loved ones will be a breeze, even …
Azul Denim
This fall's fashion is all about denim, rich colors, earthy hues, feathers and fur. Azul Denim has it all. Azul has been a premier shop to get the hottest styles …
What the Mamas Taught Us
When I heard 40 days before Election Day that the "No on 26" folks were trying to hire a spokesperson, I just knew women didn't have a chance. Thankfully, I …
Development
Hinds Wants Blank Check
To get the ball rolling on construction of a proposed roadway, the Hinds County Board of Supervisors will ask the Legislature for financial support.
Occupy Jackson Permit Under Scrutiny
On the sidewalk outside Smith Park, too-small tarps covered waterlogged books, papers and canisters of food caught in Tuesday's heavy rain. Inside City Hall a few blocks away, the signs' …
Occupy Local
Corporate America wants to cash in this holiday season with a highly visible campaign to support small businesses. Gannett Co. Inc., owner of The Clarion-Ledger, joined this effort with full …
What's Next for Voter ID?
With her hand pressed to the side of her face in a sign of frustrated concentration, Valencia Robinson, founder and executive director of Mississippi in Action, sat at a table …
The Cycle of Hate
Just when we think we've moved beyond Emmett Till, history gives us James Craig Anderson.
Make a Big Difference on Small Business Saturday
<i>Verbatim from the U.S. Small Business Administration</i>
As a proud supporter of Small Business Saturday, a day dedicated to supporting small businesses on one of the busiest shopping weekends of the year, the U.S. Small Business Administration …
Love Thy Neighbor? Buy Local
The programs are called all sorts of things these days--Think Local First, Small Business Saturday, Shift Your Shopping, Keep Austin Weird, Keep Fondren Funky--but they all point to one thing: …
[Stiggers] Shop Without Shame
Jojo's Discount Dollar Store is ready to have another entertaining and enlightening 'Post Thanksgiving (not Black Friday)' sale. Jojo has stocked the store with plenty of inexpensive gift items, and …
Our Poverty and Thanksgiving
My parents filed bankruptcy when I was in the fifth grade. My father filed a second time with his second wife years later.
How to Host Out-of-Town Guests (Without Going Insane)
Aunt Jean is coming to town. You've known about it for months, but you're days away from her camping out in your guest room with a plethora of denture accessories. …
[Gregory] Don't Mess With Mamas
"The hand that rocks the cradle is the hand that rules the world." —William Ross Wallace
City Can't Afford to Divorce TCI
Plans are in motion to fund a convention center hotel downtown, with developers and city officials hoping to get everything togehter in time to get Gulf Opportunity Zone Bonds for …
Flat on the Floor
The sculpture of tiles is made of black-and-white photographic images of floors stripped of possessions and lifelines. Left on the homes' slabs are scatterings of personal items discarded after a …
Cover
Grassroots Mamas Tell All
'This is How We Do It!'
Lori Gregory-Garrott opened her front door suddenly and looked at her sleepy Fondren neighborhood with anticipation. It was just before 10 p.m. Nov. 8, Election Day.
Please help this family in need
Photographer Christina Cannon send this email around today; please do what you can. Her verbatim email follows:
Personhood's Next Move
Religious fervor illuminated much of the dialogue at a Yes on 26 event just moments after voters refused to pass a constitutional amendment to declare that people with legal rights …
Lorenda Cheeks
As the local mailman could attest, Lorenda Cheeks has taught kids since she was a little girl herself, setting up school in the front lawn with her neighborhood friends.
Green Your Thanksgiving Meal
Falling leaves, pumpkins, a cornucopia and turkeys: Whether we are conscious of it or not, some of the most prevalent Thanksgiving symbols come from nature. No matter where you are …
Feds to Draw Congress Map
From the looks of it, it'll be federal judges, and not the Mississippi Legislature, who will redraw the state's map of congressional districts.
Tuesday, November 22
AG Hood Still Wants BP Claim Records
A dispute between Mississippi Attorney General Jim Hood and the administrator of BP's $20 billion oil-spill fund will be settled in state, not federal, court.
Shop Local
The Small Business Association encourages Americans to shop at small businesses the Saturday after Thanksgiving. Small Business Saturday, Nov. 26, is part of an effort to get people to support …
William D. Lamson
William D. Lamson was not a particularly famous man, but the quiet Mississippi cartographer and demographer became a sought-after school-desegregation expert across the nation. He died in 1992 in a …
Monday, November 21
Hinds County Wants Blank Check for Project
The Hinds County Board of Supervisors will ask the Legislature to issue bonds to aid development in the Clinton-Byram corridor; they just don't know how much funding they will request …
Council Moves Occupy Jackson Permit to Planning Committee
The future of Occupy Jackson is still up in the air. The City Council voted this morning to discuss the group's request for a special-events permit during a Planning Committee …
Kathy Buntin
The Mississippi Library Association recently awarded the 2011 Peggy May Award to Kathy Buntin of the Mississippi Library Commission at its annual conference. Buntin is the senior library consultant in …
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 at 6 p.m. during the football season. This week's …
Friday, November 18
DA Smith: Don't Set Booby Traps
Contrary to popular belief, the district attorney's office doesn't spring into action the instant a crime occurs, Hinds County District Attorney Robert Shuler Smith explained this morning.
Young Poets Draw from Jackson Scenes
Young poets presented their work to a standing-room-only crowd last night, lit by soft lights and supported by ambient jazz. The poets were fourth-graders from Davis Magnet School, sharing what …
Casey Therriault
Update: Casey Therriault threw for four touchdowns Saturday to lead Jackson State's pounding of Alcorn State 51-7. He also became JSU's single-season leader in passes completed (372 yards), passing yards …
Thursday, November 17
Voter ID Planning Begins
Valencia Robinson, founder and executive director of Mississippi in Action, an advocacy group, sat at a table in the front of the room and riffled through brochures and printouts from …
untitled
Jesmyn Ward didn't intend to be in southern Mississippi when Katrina hit in late August 2005. In fact, she was just on her way back to grad school in Michigan …
The Ole Switcheroo
Flanked by Gov. Haley Barbour and incoming Lt. Gov. Tate Reeves, state Sen. Gray Tollison announced that his becoming a member of the Republican Party was the best thing for …
Wednesday, November 16
Come On, Get Happy
New Orleans-based The Happy Talk Band sings about all sorts of things, but mostly they sing happy love songs.
10 Things: The Blind Boys of Alabama
The Famous Blind Boys of Alabama are known for their many accomplishments. Because there are so many, we've managed to narrow them down to ten, just to give you a …
‘Kiss Me, Bess'
Mississippi Symphony Orchestra presents its first pops concert of the season, "Another Opening, Another Show," featuring Cole Porter tunes from "Kiss Me Kate" and "Porgy and Bess." Vocalists Sherri Seiden …
No One is to Blame
I can trace my entire life as a music lover back to one group that I first heard in 8th grade: A Tribe Called Quest.
Who Will Win the Conerly?
All 10 of the athletic departments at Mississippi's four-year colleges and universities each nominated one football player for the 2011 Conerly Trophy. More than 40 statewide media members (myself not …
Go Get It, Saints
After 10 straight weeks of football, the New Orleans Saints finally get their bye week. The Saints enter their off week after a 26-23 overtime victory over the Atlanta Falcons, …
Owning My Mistake
The moment you sign the papers and the keys become yours, the education begins. It's not so much the information you're learning about the house or equity or basic maintenance; …
Color Coding, Revisited
If home is where the heart is, some people probably have heart disease. Just like we sometimes show our worst selves to the people we love the most, we often …
JFP Top 25: Week 12
This past weekend really shook up the college football world. Oregon spanked Stanford at home, and a kicker betrayed Boise State for the second year in row. Now college football …
Let Go and Move On
Most people have several reasons why they keep stuff they do not need.
Moving The Bad Stuff With Feng Shui
Feng (wind) Shui (water) is an ancient Chinese art that promotes peace and balance in your personal space by strategically placing items and omitting clutter. The Chinese believe that luck, …
The Flat Broke Decorator
Decorating a home can be intimidating. Couple the intimidation factor with budgets so tight that Abraham Lincoln is squealing for mercy in our wallets, and the situation could turn into …
Peace And Tranquility
Between traveling for work, phone calls, emails and a personal life, my day usually ends with me sitting in bed with a laptop attempting to catch up. The most relaxing …
The Joy Of Washing Dishes
In one of Zen Buddhism's most famous stories, a new monk approaches his teacher after a meal.
Kick Your Bleach To The Curb
Maybe I am a little too sensitive. Or maybe I am just weird. But the smell of bleach and other strong cleaning agents makes me want to run far, far …
Housekeeping Blues
The relationship between you and your housekeeper is a special one. Whether you use a local cleaning company or have one regular housekeeper, you must put a certain amount of …
Understanding Colors
As a new homeowner or someone looking for a new home project, painting and decorating can be fun but frustrating when trying to decide on the colors and schemes to …
Living Out Loud
I love color. I don't always wear a lot of it—I learned in New York City that black (and chocolate brown) makes you look skinnier, more chic and shows less …
The Meanings Of Colors
Colors attract or give off certain energies. They have symbolism, can represent or follow a trend and even heal, according to chromotherapy. It is important to choose the right colors …
Color Me Bright
If you want to spark up your home or you're looking for the perfect housewarming gift, look to local businesses for bright and vibrant home accessories. Accenting neutral colors with …
Mark's Man Cave
When my brother-in-law, Mark, and his wife, Cathryn, were looking for a house a few years back, he knew that she would decorate it as she saw fit. Fortunately, the …
My Boudoir
With all the talk of man caves these days, it can be easy to forget that it was women who had to fight for the right to have a "Room …
Solar Remodel
I think about my retirement often and how great it has the potential of being. Then I panic thinking about whether we'll have enough, about the best strategy for saving …
My New Patio
Living in Arizona and Northern California gave me a greater appreciation for nature and enjoying the outdoors. In Arizona, I was able to enjoy the view of the beautiful mountains …
Everyone New Again
I'm a big fan of old things. Architectural salvage, vintage accessories, old books—I like the idea of things that have a history. Apparently, though, I'm getting to the age where …
Home at Last?
When I was small, my parents seemed to think that moving to a new city to give my dad better job opportunities was a pretty cool thing to do.
State Wants NCLB Relief
The Mississippi Board of Education voted last month to apply for a waiver in hopes of getting relief from some of the requirements of No Child Left Behind.
Lots of Mouths to Feed
Last week, the Farish Street Group became the latest developers to ask for public funds to finance high-priced downtown Jackson developments.
Dems Lick Wounds, Prep for Battle
Mississippi Republicans are still painting the state red in celebration of the party's recent electoral successes. The GOP is maintaining control of the governor's mansion, the lieutenant governorship, the state …
Vote ‘Yes' on the Tollison-Bell Amendment
The worst dirty trick we saw this last election wasn't a campaign ad, a robo-call or an "astroturf" campaign from a shadowy coalition of instigators and carpetbaggers. (Of course, all …
[Stiggers] Spinning Your Favorites
Don't let the bad, sad and terrible news mess with your mood. Come on down to Clubb Chicken Wing's 'Mid-Week After Hours Job Fair, Networking Session and Disco' and do …
[Outlaw] Home on the Ranch
Feel free to judge, but I've lived in eight different places since 2004. Yes, I'm aware that makes me sound like a Gypsy, but I can defend myself. Justin and …
Cover
One Zen Day at a Time
You could call me an armchair decorator. No, I don't mean that I spend my spare time decorating armchairs; I mean I like little more than plopping into a big …
Invitational Delights
Franklin Sirmans, the curator of contemporary art at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, was out of his element a few months ago in the woods outside Oxford. He …
Measuring the Democratic Mess
Once again, election night last week revealed a grim reality for Mississippi Democrats and the Mississippi Democratic Party.
The Lone Democrat
Mississippi Attorney General Jim Hood celebrated a large victory last Tuesday when he won his third re-election term against Republican challenger Steve Simpson, winning 60 percent of the vote. But …
Thomas Roots
From the time he was elected Mr. Best Dressed in both middle and high school, Thomas Wayne Roots knew he had a future in fashion and design. "I've always liked …
Barksdale Offers JPS ‘The Price of Eggs' for Supe Search
Jim Barksdale, former president and CEO of Netscape, has officially offered the school board financial assistance to hire and retain the best superintendent that money can buy.
Tuesday, November 15
Local Party Chairs React to Party Switchers
Political leaders at the county level can have tremendous sway in elections. A strong county chairperson can motivate loyal precinct captains to get the party faithful to the polls on …
Light Bulbs and Awards
Oil and gas company CITGO provided more than 1,000 energy-efficient compact fluorescent light bulbs to Jackson residents last weekend.
Jeff Maddox
Country music songwriter and singer Jeff Maddox has a single that's getting airplay across the United States and overseas, but so far he hasn't heard his song on radio stations …
PERS Commission Report Delayed
Public employees and politicians anxious to see recommendations from a commission studying the Public Employees' Retirement System will have to wait a while longer.
Monday, November 14
One-lake Project Could Offer Flood Reduction
Early analyses of a proposed one-lake development along the Pearl River reveals that flood-reduction benefits are possible, said Pearl River Vision Foundation team member Dallas Quinn.
City Council Questions Farish Developers
City Council members questioned Farish Street developers about their request for $8 million in bonds during a work session this morning.
Albert Wilson
Almost as soon as Albert Wilson learned Councilman Kenneth Stokes was running for a Hinds County supervisor's position, he decided he wanted to campaign for the job of representing Ward …
Community Events and Public Meetings
Charity Funding Seminars. American Charity Assistance Network gives ways to fund charities, churches, and nonprofits at no cost. Also, learn how to become a paid volunteer. Call 769-233-6285.
Friday, November 11
JSU President: ‘Pay Teachers More'
Communities need to pay teachers more, says Carolyn Meyers, president of Jackson State University. "I think our whole system, nationally, is topsy-turvy," she said this morning at Koinonia Coffee House. …
Oberhousen Leads in Hinds House Race
Brad Oberhousen, a Democrat who is running against Republican incumbent Jim Ellington for the House District 73 race, is currently leading with 53 votes. His win could signal a much …
Ballot Initiatives Draw Reaction
While the proposed Personhood amendment garnered most of the attention locally as well as from national media, voters approved two other controversial statewide ballot measures on Tuesday.
Bennie Hopkins
As Bennie Hopkins prepares for his new role as the city of Jackson's director of planning and development, he reflected on what he has learned from working with Corinne Fox, …
It's the Weekend!
Take time to help out a good cause this Veterans Day weekend by participating in one of the many fundraisers being held in the area. Today at the Jackson Zoo …
Thursday, November 10
Rep. Brandon Jones Not Conceding
Rep. Brandon Jones, D-Pascagoula, posted a message on Facebook today saying he is still reviewing election totals against his opponent for the Mississippi House of Representatives, Charles Busby.
Farish to Face More Delays Without Financing
The opening of the Farish Street Entertainment District's venues could be pushed back again to the fall of 2012 if the Farish Street Group does not receive $8 million in …
Tollison Defecting to GOP?
State Sen. Gray Tollison, D-Oxford, may switch political parties. One newspaper report speculates that Tollison's endorsement of Lt. Gov. Phil Bryant over fellow Democrat Johnny DuPree could be one indication …
Jackson Major Crimes Overview: 10/31 to 11/6
Here's a snapshot :
The Jackson Police Department released its overview of major crimes for the period between October 31, 2011 and November 6, 2011.
Claire Holley
Although Claire Holley didn't spend her childhood sitting on a picturesque front porch swapping family tales, Mississippi's culture and landscape has still managed to work its way into her pensive, …
Wednesday, November 9
Bring a Kleenex
Some writers spend a lifetime searching for their subject and voice. G. Mark LaFrancis found his in the stories of soldiers and their families. LaFrancis is the author of the …
Motorcar Man
If you've lived in the metro area for at least six months, then more than likely you've seen local singer/songwriter Larry Brewer's name pop up frequently in the JFP's music …
The Best In Sports In 7 Days
Ole Miss looks to have caved in to the faceless "Forward Rebels" bloggers.
Demystifying the NBA Lockout
On July 1, 2011, the collective bargaining agreement between the National Basketball Association owners and the 450 NBA players expired. Unhappy with the terms of the CBA, the owners instituted …
Pink Slip Anonymous
It looks like Houston Nutt is getting the ax after the Egg Bowl. Nutt had great success early at the University of Mississippi, but he has struggled the last two …
JFP Top 25: Week 11
LSU versus Alabama lived up to all the hype on defense. Missed field goals doomed Alabama as the top-ranked Tigers topped the Crimson Tide 9-6 in overtime. Now Alabama has …
Layering 101
Layering makes me happy, because it's the perfect way to maximize my entire wardrobe regardless of the season. When you find a way to wear a strapless mini dress year …
Mississippi House Remains In Limbo
Republicans are salivating over the prospect of taking over the Mississippi House of Representatives even as votes from Election Day continued to be counted throughout the state today. But Democrats …
Jacksonian
Angela Taylor
Angela Taylor grew up in a family that taught her to help others and be an independent thinker. "My parents were active in the Civil Rights Movement," she says. They …
The Best We Can Be
Last week, I attended one of those uniquely Jackson events that national media never seem to know about when they paint us with a broad brush. It was a performance …
Second Chances
Michael Williams is the man behind the movie projector at the Russell C. Davis Planetarium. He is responsible for making sure the independent art films and sky shows run on …
‘Take Risks; Make Changes'
Jackson Public Schools has nine months to hire a new superintendent before interim Superintendent Jayne Sargent's contract expires in July.
Homeless and Boxed In
Although David Barney was homeless for several months, he never thought of himself as living in poverty. Barney, 43, got laid off from a construction job in 2010, and after …
Redistricting Redux
Mississippi's ongoing battle over redistricting will keep going on at least into the near future.
State's Biz Climate Iffy
Gov. Haley Barbour touted his administration's pro-business bona fides for the last time in his role as state government's chief executive before a throng of mostly business folks at the …
Building Business
Gov. Haley Barbour has long been bullish on Mississippi's business environment, announcing every new business his administration brings into the state—large and small—and every new development with great fanfare.
[Stiggers] Oh Lord Have Mercy
I realize that your current situation is hard to take, but do not be despondent. Remember that life is a period of adjustments. I suggest you adjust by becoming critical …
[Kamikaze] Let's Talk, Dems
Hey, Mississippi Democratic Party: Can we talk? We've heard some pretty strong accusations that you aren't as powerful as you used to be. In fact, a few folks are whispering …
JRA Considers Financing Farish Street
The Jackson Redevelopment Authority board is considering a proposal to allocate $8 million in urban renewal bonds to the Farish Street Group for the redevelopment of the Farish Street Entertainment …
Business
Craig Noone's Unfinished Business
People leave unfinished business. Sometimes they just move on to other projects. Or they meet with tragedy, leaving others to complete the unfinished business. It is the living who follow …
Jim Hood Eases into Third Term
By 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, supporters at Jim Hood's re-election party were only mildly paying attention to the four television monitors showing election returns in the King Edward Hotel's banquet room.
Cooking from the Soul
When Wilora "Peaches" Ephram opened Peaches Restaurant in 1961, she had $45 in her pocket. She took that money and cooked hotdogs for her first customers until she made enough …
What Craig Taught Me
I met Craig Noone the summer of 2008 at Stephan Pyles Restaurant in Dallas, Texas. I had just graduated from culinary school in Austin, moved back to Dallas and landed …
Opera: These Things Happen
Never was a story of more woe than that of Juliet and her Romeo, but the tragic love story of Cio-Cio San and Pinkerton comes close. Cio-Cio San and Pinkerton …
Homage to the Waters
The northern border of Madison County is formed by the Big Black River. The Pearl River maintains the county's southern and eastern borders. It's from this geographical configuration that Carol …
Healthy Substitutes
Healthier alternatives to tasty but fattening ingredients in foods we eat every day are plentiful. You can make some substitutes to reduce risks for diseases and obesity.
Tate Reeves vs. Reform Party
Here's something interesting: The Associated Press reported that in the lieutenant governor's race between Republican Tate Reeves and the Reform Party's Tracella Lou O'Hara Hill, Hill received 20 percent of …
Bryant Claims Victory
In claiming victory as Mississippi's 64th governor, Phil Bryant invoked the names of Ronald Reagan, Barry Goldwater, former Mississippi Gov. Kirk Fordice and current Gov. Haley Barbour.
Grassroots Mamas: ‘We Did It!'
Just before 10 p.m. last night, Lori Gregory Garrott ran out of her Fondren home, stood on the front lawn and looked around before shouting, "We just won!" She yelled …
The Day After: Bryant, Hood, Voter ID In; Personhood Out; House May Go GOP
What a night in Mississippi! With national eyes on us, the biggest news of the night is that the state voted about 40-60 against the Personhood Initiative. Predictably, Phil Bryant …
Bryant: We Will Rise
Tonight, Mississippi Lt. Gov. Phil Bryant invoked the names of Ronald Reagan, Barry Goldwater, and former Gov. Kirk Fordice in claiming victory as the state's 64th governor.
Tuesday, November 8
Big Winners/Losers We Know About As of Tonight
Here's a race list of who/what won and lost tonight. It's not exhaustive because we're exhausted. We'll attach numbers tomorrow. JFP endorsements have astericks:
Mississippi Deals Personhood Movement a Resounding Defeat
Nov. 8, 2011 -- Tonight was not a good night for the national Personhood USA movement that tried to push Initiative 26 in Mississippi. The opponents took some 60 percent …
Hood: I Will Continue Fighting For Families
Supporters did not seem too surprised tonight when Attorney General Jim Hood won this third term in office over his opponent Steve Simpson.
DuPree: I can't tell you how much we love you
At a campaign party that began with prayer, it fits for Democratic gubernatorial candidate and Hattiesburg Mayor Johnny DuPree to thank God, even after a seemingly landslide loss.
The AP and Johnny DuPree…
The Associated Press has already declared Democratic candidate Johnny DuPree the loser of tonight's gubernatorial race before the singers have gotten started good.
Live from Yes on 26
Personhood is the race to watch tonight, with supporters at a "watch and pray" event hosted by Yes on 26 saying it's too close to call.
Early Returns on Personhood 45% Yes 55 % NO; Voter ID Winning 62% So Far
Early returns (17 percent or so) indicate that (a) Phil Bryant is winning, (b) Jim Hood is winning, (c) Personhood is LOSING and (d) Voter ID is winning. More when …
Really quiet at Ole Tavern
Only about a dozen activists who oppose Initiative 26 are at Ole Tavern. Some are eating, some are taking pictures. This is a relaxed group that's been working hard. The …
Start the Party Right: What Are Your Predictions?
OK, it's that time when you first get to the party and haven't had enough to drink. Or the part of karaoke when Todd Stauffer sings "I Am Woman" to …
Hell No! is in the House
Michelle Colon, the activist who started the Hell No! on 26 and 27 just walked in the door loaded down with posters and banners. I asked her if it has …
Polls Have Closed; JFP Team Ready to Roll
Take a deep breath, all. The polls just closed. Who will be our next governor, attorney general, treasurer, legislators? Will Personhood pass? Voter ID? Eminent Domain? The JFP team—Todd, Ronni, …
Hosemann: ‘Minor Problems and Major Turnout'
Secretary of State Delbert Hosemann's office reports "minimal problems" at Mississippi polling locations today.
Election Night Parties
Here is a roundup of election-night parties, which all begin at 7 p.m. All events are open to the public. Please add more in our comments section.
Personhood Polls Surprisingly Close
In this typically anti-abortion state, a recent poll suggests that the fate of the "Personhood Amendment" might be too close to call. Public Policy Polling found that 45 percent of …
New Restaurant, Old Favorite
El Mezquite Bar and Grill has opened at 4240 Robinson Road (in the former El Chico site) near Metrocenter Mall. Luther and Magda Reyna own the new restaurant.
Destiny Everitte
Millsaps College student Destiny Everitte is donating 12 hours of her time today to hold a sign opposing Initiative 26 on the corner of State Street and Riverside Drive.
My Advice to James ‘Kingfish' Hendrix
I woke up this morning very concerned about a particular race that appears on some area ballots. No, it's not Personhood, voter ID or the governor's race, although I'm very …
Democrats Launch Voter Hotline
The Mississippi Democratic Party has launched a voter hotline for citizens who experience any problems at the polls today. The number is 1-800-311-VOTE.
Monday, November 7
Candidates Make Final Push
Read Republican Bill Denny's mailout (PDF). In the final hours before Election Day, candidates for state offices are making the final push to win over voters and outpace their opponents.
Follow us on Election Night
When the polls close tomorrow, the Jackson Free Press news team will hit the election-night parties and provide real-time coverage at Jacksonfreepress.com and Twitter. For live updates follow:
Jimmy ‘Kingfish' Hendrix Running for Judge, After All
It looks like James "Jimmy" Hendrix aka Kingfish aka Jackson Jambalaya is in the race for Hinds County Justice Court Judge for District 1, after all. Hendrix, a Republican who …
Kate Browne
Conceptual artist Kate Browne visits the Mississippi Museum of Art Wednesday, Nov. 9, for a planning session for a project she will install in The Art Garden next spring. It's …
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 at 6 p.m. during the football season. This week's …
Friday, November 4
Under Fire, Barbour Backtracks on Personhood Doubt
Gov. Haley Barbour is trying to unring a bell after raising concerns about the wording of Initiative 26, Mississippi's Personhood amendment, earlier this week on several cable news shows. (Watch …
Campaign Shenanigans
Candidates are pulling out all the stops to attract votes, often, as many citizens are learning, with questionable if not unsavory tactics. One might expect it in the days leading …
AT&T President Defends T-Mobile Merger
AT&T Mississippi President Mayo Flynt said this morning that his company's proposed acquisition of T-Mobile will not give AT&T an advantage over its competitors, but will allow the company to …
Andrew Dunaway
A few years ago, Andrew Dunaway's sister suggested since he talked so much about food, he should start writing about it. So, he did. He interviews chefs and tries out …
It's the Weekend!
Be sure to warm up if you decide to participate in one of the two charity walkathons taking place this weekend. Today, JSU celebrates its 100th anniversary with a football …
Thursday, November 3
Barbour: Legislature Better Place to Decide Personhood
Gov. Haley Barbour yesterday reiterated concerns he expressed earlier this week on MSNBC and Fox News about Mississippi's ballot Initiative 26, the proposed Personhood amendment.
Study: Jackson 6th Largest Metro for Concentrated Poverty
The Jackson metro has some of the most concentrated poverty areas in the country, with the majority of those poor individuals living inside city limits, a Brookings study released today …
Melody Musgrove
It's a rainy day at Callaway High School. Tell-tale water stains spread in brown patches on the ceiling, and tiles bulge under the weight of water from the leaky roof. …
U.S. Education Official to Visit JPS
Melody Musgrove, director of the U.S. Office of Special Education Programs and former state director of special education in Mississippi, will visit Callaway High School today to discuss school modernization …
Wednesday, November 2
Cover
Personhood: A Pandora's Box
Atlee Breland picked her three young children up from preschool and drove home to Brandon. A self-employed computer programmer, Breland is able to adjust her day around her children. Her …
The Best In Sports In 7 Days
It's all about Saturday's big matchup, in case you haven't noticed. I pick Alabama.
Mixing Roots
Mixing roots with modern music means more to the Carolina Chocolate Drops than blending old and new. The unusual musical group plays songs with ancient-sounding bluegrass tunes and genuine African …
Dreams Come True
"You can dream a little dream, or you can live a little dream, I'd rather live it, cause dreamers always chase, but never get it." —Aesop Rock, "No Regrets"
Game of the Year
Saturday, Nov. 5, I will be at my brother-in-law's man cave. The grill will be ready for some burgers and brats. Our favorite beverage will be in a cooler and …
Suck for What?
ESPN talking heads are fond of the phrase "Suck for Luck," shorthand for the idea that NFL teams would tank games to draft Stanford quarterback Andrew Luck.
JFP Top 25: Week 10
Undefeated teams are dropping like flies. After this past weekend, only six undefeated teams remain. One undefeated team is guaranteed to fall this week when LSU travels to Alabama in …
‘Obamacare' and Mississippi: What's In It For Us?
Shortly after Congress passed the Affordable Care Act—known as ACA to supporters and "Obamacare" to detractors—Mississippi Gov. Haley Barbour joined a multi-state lawsuit challenging its constitutionality.
Different Kind of Brunch
Whether it takes the form of a lazy Saturday morning for two or a gathering of a multitude of friends and family, brunch can be a celebration that takes us …
The Neelys Return to Jackson
Pat and Gina Neely of the popular Food Network TV show, "Down Home With the Neelys," are coming to Lemuria Books to sign their latest cookbook, "The Neelys' Celebration Cookbook: …
Self Defense or Murder?
Edna Mae Sanders first met former Navy Seal Sherman Sanders at a Baton Rouge party in March 2005. She gave him her phone number, and it wasn't long before he …
Students Make Gains in Math
National test scores in math and reading consistently put Mississippi below the national average, but this year's results show students made gains in one of the areas where they typically …
On the Ballot
Here are the candidates you'll see on your Nov. 8 ballot. Everyone in Mississippi will see the statewide offices. Voters in Hinds County will also see their appropriate state Senate, …
Churches and Campaigns
The Internal Revenue Service categorizes churches as nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations. It regulates how nonprofits can be involved in political campaigns and still maintain their tax-exempt status.
Inside Yes on 26
Yes on 26 Campaign Director Brad Prewitt is an unassuming man. The 36-year-old with boyish features looked a bit uncomfortable wearing a suit and tie during the campaign's "Festival of …
Voter ID: Excessive Regulation?
In 2005, Noxubee County Democratic Executive Committee Chairman Ike Brown decided to go the extra—and illegal—mile to get votes for African American candidates, according to court records.
Voting Long Under Fire
In the decades after the 15th Amendment was ratified in 1870, granting American citizens the right to vote regardless of race, white southerners developed methods to circumvent the amendment and …
Eminent Domain: ‘Taking' Too Much?
In 2001, Nissan was preparing to come to Canton, and Lonzo Archie's home stood in the way of a new factory. The state, eager to bring in the factory's jobs …
[Stiggers] Pass It On
If you've experience a rude awakening, Aunt Tee Tee and I want to help you through your economic and vocational perils. As associate dean of the Aunt Tee Tee Technical …
Au Naturel
Singer-songwriter Graham Colton, an Oklahoma native, is on a two-month tour of the South in a tour van that runs on compressed natural gas. Singing pop ballads and promoting CNG, …
The Skinny on Polk
Hattiesburg native Patrik-Ian Polk has wrapped another film and is working on more television shows to add to his credentials. Polk, who is gay, explores issues of race and sexual …
[Queen] It's About Women's Rights
I find it laughable that the state of Mississippi is even considering asking us to vote yes on Initiative 26. Really? We are being asked to make a law to …
Swagger and Swing
I began reading Preston Lauterbach's book with a background in rock music, somewhat aware of the history and legends of the blues and the birth of rock 'n' roll. I …
Death by a Thousand Cuts
Adam Ross' "Ladies and Gentlemen" (Knopf, 2011, $26) is a collection of short stories that tell of an indifferent universe and untrustworthy companions who carelessly toss around the nervous men …
[Barbour] Danger Looming Large
We lost the possibility of children; we did not lose children.
Money Talks
If Hinds County Supervisor candidate John Dennery had to choose an animal he identifies with the most, he says he would pick a guard dog. The Republican candidate for the …
Multi-Use Trail Gets $1.1 M
It's probably not every day that a state transportation commissioner double-high-fives a sitting mayor. Dick Hall, central district transportation commissioner, and Gary Rhoads, Flowood's mayor, were in a celebratory mood …
Absent-Minded Balloting
Despite a mistake in preparing absentee ballots, state officials say people's votes will be counted, but could present legal challenges later. An error in preparing them initially left information about …
Megan Prosper
During October, Belhaven University's Bitsy Irby Visual Arts and Dance Building gallery was home to Megan Prosper's artwork. Black-and-white photographs lined one wall while another had seemingly random dangling items. …
If Not Now, When?
Next Tuesday is Election Day in Mississippi. If voting trends hold true, fewer than 40 percent of those eligible to vote will actually cast ballots. It also means that progressives …
Tuesday, November 1
Bike Trail Boost
The Greater Jackson Chamber Partnership will announce funding for the "Museum to Market" pedestrian and bike trail project in Jackson this afternoon.
Monzell Stowers
While Occupy protests were going on in places like Wisconsin, Ohio, Washington, D.C., and New York City, Monzell Stowers was waiting for the movement to come to him.
Mustard Seed Gets Boost from Wellsfest
Wells United Methodist Church announced yesterday that the 28th Wellsfest raised $62,000 for the Mustard Seed, a local non-profit that helps adults with development disabilities.
