Jackson Free Press

There's never a slow news week in Jackson, Miss., and last week was no exception. Here are the local stories JFP reporters brought you in case you missed them:

1. Mississippi regulators and utilities are savaging the federal government's proposal to force Mississippi power plants to cut carbon dioxide emissions.
2. Even though the city—and his administration—continued taking licks throughout the year, Mayor Tony Yarber rattled off a long list of what he called wins for his team at his year-end press conference.
3. A program called "Safe Dates" will soon launch in 10 rape-crisis centers in Mississippi thanks to a of $15,750 grant to the Mississippi State Department of Health from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for rape prevention education. It aims to help teens differentiate between relationships that are caring and supportive and those that are controlling, manipulative and abusive.
4. In December 2013, with a new city council and a once-controversial mayor who was starting to win the hearts and minds of his detractors, things were looking up for the city of Jackson.
5. Frank Spencer, executive director of Stewpot Community Services, is looking for ways to keep serving the homeless community amidst large donation decreases.
6. Jackson's premier vinyl convention, 4 the Record, looks to be skipping next year after a number of larger vendors cancelled to attend the Alabama Record Collector's Association CD & Record Show.
7. Despite the election being almost one year away, candidates are already announcing runs for local and state races in next year's statewide election, when voters will choose leadership for state and county government.
8. The Jackson City Council has moved closer to returning to full strength with Ashby Foote officially joining the body as Ward 1 councilman.
9. Baseball has been successful in this state for a few years. Football had an amazing season that leaves everyone wondering if it can be replicated. Is it basketball's turn to shine in Mississippi?
10. Each year the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame and Museum hands out the Howell Trophy to the best men's college basketball player in Mississippi.

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