Friday, July 31
Politics
Young 'Gives a Darn'
Incumbent candidates usually have an edge, and in the Republican primary race for governor this year, Phil Bryant is an obvious favorite. That’s not deterring Mitch Young from running however, …
Politics
Neshoba Roundup
Ahead of the primary elections on Tuesday, candidates for state-elected positions gave their annual speeches at the Neshoba County Fair this week.
Person of the Day
Vicki Slater for Governor
Democratic gubernatorial candidate Vicki Slater knows her way around Mississippi's legal and political circles and brings skills and insight to the Capitol that have been lacking for quite some time.
City & County
Yarber Tasks Jackson's Youth with Shaping City's Future
The Jackson-area teens who recently took top prizes at a New Orleans technology competition had front-row seating at Mayor Tony Yarber's second State of the City address at the Arts …
Congress Heading on Vacation, Putting Off Messy Decisions
As lawmakers head out of the Capitol for a five-week summer recess, they leave behind a pile of unfinished business that all but guarantees a painful fall.
Despite Bombing, Islamic State is No Weaker than a Year Ago
After billions of dollars spent and more than 10,000 extremist fighters killed, the Islamic State group is fundamentally no weaker than it was when the U.S.-led bombing campaign began a …
Back to Beijing for 2nd Olympics in 14 Years
Throughout more than 120 years of Olympic history, no city has hosted both the winter and summer games. Now, Beijing will be the first do it — and in the …
Experimental Ebola Vaccine Could Stop Virus in West Africa
An experimental vaccine tested on thousands of people in Guinea exposed to Ebola seems to work and might help shut down the ongoing epidemic in West Africa, according to interim …
House Speaker Protested by Flag Supporters at Neshoba Fair
About two dozen people who want to keep the Confederate battle emblem on the Mississippi flag held the banner in silent protest Thursday as Republican state House Speaker Philip Gunn …
Thursday, July 30
Mayor Tony Yarber's State of the City Speech
The full text of Jackson Mayor Tony Yarber's 2015 State of the City address at the Mississippi Arts Center.
Cellmate Charged in Jail Death of Choctaw Tribal Politician
The cellmate of a Philadelphia man has been charged with murder in his death in the Neshoba County jail.
City & County
Baker: I'm a Doer
After an unsuccessful bid in 2013, Democrat James “Lap” Baker is making another bid this August for Hinds County's District 4 supervisor seat.
Health Care
Advocates Turn Up for Medicaid's 50th Birthday
Advocates for health-care access celebrated at a "birthday party" for the Medicaid and Medicare programs this morning, both established 50 years ago this week.
City & County
Civil Rights Marker Honors State's Past, Symbolizes Future
The state and city of Jackson commemorated James Meredith's March Against Fear with a marker at the Mississippi Capitol.
Person of the Day
Fred McAfee
The town of Philadelphia, Miss., has produced some great athletes over the years. One of the most famous is Marcus Dupree, and this weekend, Dupree's first cousin, Fred McAfee, will …
3 UVa Graduates Sue Rolling Stone Over Retracted Rape Story
Three University of Virginia graduates and members of a fraternity profiled in a debunked account of a gang rape in a retracted Rolling Stone magazine story filed a lawsuit against …
Cincinnati Cop Pleads Not Guilty to Murder in Traffic Stop
A University of Cincinnati police officer who shot a motorist after stopping him over a missing front license plate pleaded not guilty Thursday to charges of murder and involuntary manslaughter.
Confederate Flags Placed at Ebenezer Church Near MLK Center
Four Confederate battle flags were found on the grounds of the Ebenezer Baptist Church near the Martin Luther King Jr. Center in Atlanta on Thursday, and police and federal authorities …
Wednesday, July 29
Israeli Bulldozers Start Demolishing West Bank Settlement
Israeli bulldozers began demolishing a contested housing complex in a West Bank settlement on Wednesday as the prime minister's office announced the "immediate construction" of some 300 new units at …
Russia Vetoes Security Council Proposal on MH17 Tribunal
Russia on Wednesday vetoed a U.N. Security Council resolution that would set up an international criminal court to prosecute those responsible for shooting down a Malaysia Airlines plane over Ukraine …
Ohio Cop Indicted on Murder Charge in Traffic-Stop Shooting
A University of Cincinnati officer who shot a motorist during a traffic stop over a missing front license plate was indicted Wednesday on a murder charge, with a prosecutor saying …
Sports
Changing More Than the Flag
SEC media days had a slightly political feel to them a couple of weeks ago. Both SEC coaches from the state of Mississippi were asked about changing the state flag.
Bryan's Rant
Saying Dumb Things in Sports
Last week, a few figures in the sports world made headlines for the things they said, which weren't good statements for the most part.
The Slate
Another 1980-1990s star took a tumble last week. This time, it was WWE wrestler Hulk Hogan. The WWE erased Hogan from its roster after transcripts of a racist rant from …
Candidate
Where Are We Now? Education A Prime Issue for the Primary Election
Education is a major focus for candidates in the upcoming primary elections, especially due to this year's political back-and-forth on fully funding the Mississippi Adequate Education Program.
Candidate
Bomp, Bomp: Law & Order and the Race for Hinds County District Attorney
It's hard to tell whether Robert Shuler Smith, the top prosecutor in Hinds County, is confident he'll coast to a third term as district attorney—or if he's scared out of …
About Those Racist Friends
You can't help but notice the unbelievably high number of comments on social media concerning the issue of what we should do about our "friends" who are racists.
Education
Full-Court Press for Mississippi Third Graders in Summer School Has Disappointing Results
Early July in the Mississippi Delta, and the East Sunflower Elementary School was bristling with nervous energy. If educators inside were perspiring, though, it wasn't from the sweltering summer heat.
Politics
Overdue Foster Care Reform Coming Soon
Mississippi's foster-care system has long left children without medical care and living in limbo without a proper home, but state officials have largely ignored a seven-year court order to overhaul …
Editor's Note
Courage is Courage, Even If It’s Caitlyn Jenner
Free doesn’t mean you’re free only if you agree with the majority. Just like courage, freedom is freedom.
Music
Keyone Starr: Hometown Special
When producer Mark Ronson released his hit song "Uptown Funk" last year, the mention of Jackson threw some listeners. An explanation came in the form of a powerhouse performance from …
Books
For Future (’80s) Reference
Author Ernest Cline has been in high demand since the release of his best-selling science-fiction tale, "Ready Player One." A bidding war and two movie deals later, he returns with …
Style
Swim Safely
Adding as many water-safety steps as possible is the best way to assure a safe and fun experience for children and adults while enjoying the water during the hot Mississippi …
Food
Neighborhood Pizza
The Pizza Shack knows what its customers want: thinner crust, two layers of cheese and an avalanche of toppings pushed to the crust's brim.
Education
Stop Blaming Families for Education Shortfalls
When we discuss issues of achievement within education, particularly revolving around Jackson Public Schools, I see the same horrifying instance play out over and over again.
Education
‘Hand-in-hand’: Poverty + Education Keep State in Last Place
The problem with Mississippi coming in last place in the Kids Count child well-being survey is largely that perception has a big impact on the children experiencing poverty or a …
City & County
Farish Mess Lingers as JRA Tries to Move On
To paraphrase Michael Corleone, just when the Jackson Redevelopment Authority thought it was out—of the morass over Farish Street—they get pulled back in.
Jacksonian
Erika Iguobadia
Erika Iguobadia, 35, believes in challenging her seventh-grade students at Northwest Middle School in Jackson.
Tuesday, July 28
City & County
David Watkins, JRA Spar Over Farish Settlement Terms
David Watkins said he wants "fair compensation" in exchange for dropping the legal challenges that are holding up the development of historic Farish Street.
Biz Roundup
Growing the Creative Economy, Flowood Crafts and Solar Outreach
A panel of 23 creative professionals, community leaders and economic developers from across the state will host an advisory panel on growing Mississippi's creative economy Wednesday, July 29, at The …
Person of the Day
Deborah Hunter
In 2010, Deborah Hunter walked into her new home in Terry, and her beautiful kitchen instantly inspired her. Hunter uttered one simple prayer: "Lord, please teach me how to cook."
Sen. Paul: Senate Will Vote on Fed Aid to Planned Parenthood
The Senate will vote before its August recess on an effort to block federal aid to Planned Parenthood, presidential hopeful Sen. Rand Paul said Tuesday.
Kerry at House Hearing: Nothing in Iran Deal Built on Trust
Secretary of State John Kerry pitched the administration's controversial nuclear deal with Iran before a skeptical House Foreign Affairs Committee on Tuesday, pushing back against the allegation it would ease …
Obama: Africa Must Create Jobs for its Next Generation
Closing a historic visit to Africa, President Barack Obama on Tuesday urged the continent's leaders to prioritize creating jobs and opportunity for the next generation of young people or risk …
NY Prison Worker Pleads Guilty in Escape of 2 Killers
A northern New York prison worker pleaded guilty Tuesday to smuggling hacksaw blades in frozen hamburger meat to two killers who later broke out and spent more than two weeks …
NATO Proclaims 'Strong Solidarity' with Turkey Against IS
NATO proclaimed its "strong solidarity" with Turkey following a rare emergency meeting Tuesday in which members also urged the country not to use excessive force in its fight against extremists, …
Monday, July 27
Crime
Family Spokesman: Rexdale Henry's Fines Shouldn't Have Led to Death
John Steele, a spokesman for the family of Rexdale Henry, who was found dead inside the Neshoba County Jail on July 14, said the family is awaiting the results of …
Education
Jackson Students Hack, Code Their Way to Top Honors
After sharpening their skills at the state's largest hackathon event, several Jackson-area schools flexed their coding muscle in New Orleans to win top prizes.
Person of the Day
Andrew Campbell
In the summer of 2012, Andrew Campbell took a bus up to South Dakota. He was going to spend the summer interning with an organic farm that raised crops for …
Remains of 36 Unidentified Marines from WWII Battle Return
The military and a private organization have brought home the remains of 36 Marines killed in one of World War II's bloodiest battles.
US, Turkey Seek to Establish Islamic State-Free Zone
The United States and Turkey are finalizing plans for a military campaign to push the Islamic State out of a strip of land along the Syrian border, deepening efforts to …
Boston Mayor Refuses to Sign Host Contract for 2024 Olympics
Boston's mayor delivered a harsh blow to the city's effort to host the 2024 Olympics on Monday when he declared he wouldn't sign any document "that puts one dollar of …
Malaysia, Cuba Taken Off US Human Trafficking Blacklist
The State Department on Monday took Malaysia and Cuba off its blacklist of countries failing to combat modern-day slavery, leaving the U.S. open to criticism that politics is swaying the …
City & County
10 Local Stories of the Week
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.
Saturday, July 25
Death of Choctaw Activist Rexdale Henry in Neshoba Jail Prompts Private Autopsy
A private autopsy is under way for Rexdale W. Henry, a 53-year-old man found dead inside the Neshoba County Jail in Philadelphia, Miss., on July 14.
Friday, July 24
City & County
George Welch
George Welch, Democratic candidate for Hinds County Board of Supervisors District 5
City & County
Machelle Shelby Kyles
Machelle Shelby Kyles, Democratic Challenger for House District 63
City & County
Livingston Park Reopens, Zoo Gets a Giraffe
Starting today, families will be able to enjoy west Jackson's Livingston Park in a way the park has not been used in a long time. A ribbon-cutting ceremony took place …
Person of the Day
Columbus Mayor Robert Smith
Columbus has joined the list of Mississippi cities no longer flying the state flag because the design includes a Confederate battle emblem.
Crime
Theater Gunman's Family Called Him Mentally Ill, Violent
The family of the man who killed two people and wounded nine others before killing himself at a crowded showing of "Trainwreck" showing said he was mentally ill and so …
Anthem Bids $48 Billion for Cigna to Create Health Giant
Anthem is buying rival Cigna for $48 billion in a deal that would create the nation's largest health insurer by enrollment, covering about 53 million U.S patients.
Police: Theater Gunman was 'Drifter' who Planned to Escape
The movie theater gunman who stood up about 20 minutes into the showing of "Trainwreck" and began firing into the crowd, killing two people, was described as a drifter from …
EU Regulator Recommends 1st License for Malaria Vaccine
The European Medicines Agency has recommended approving what would be the world's first licensed malaria vaccine, even though it's only about 30 percent effective and its protection fades over time.
Mississippi Capitol Getting Civil Rights Historical Marker
The Mississippi Capitol is being added to the state's Freedom Trail on July 29.
Thursday, July 23
Mississippi Foster Care System Might Get Its Own Agency
JACKSON, Miss. (AP) — Mississippi may consider making its child welfare unit a separate agency under a judge's order in the latest effort to resolve a longstanding lawsuit over conditions …
State
Stonewall Mayor Reacts to Sanders Case, NAACP Wants Inquiry
The mayor of Stonewall, a small Mississippi town just south of Meridian, said people have the wrong idea about his 1,100-person community, which has been in the national spotlight since …
Person of the Day
Nick Griffin
Former Mississippi State University running back Nick Griffin represented Mississippi in this year's International Federation of American Football Championship.
State
Official: Man Detained by Police was Breathing, Kicking
A Tennessee man who died after witnesses say was he hog-tied face-down on a stretcher was at the hospital for an hour and a half before his death and was …
Sheriff: Inmate Told Texas Jailer of Prior Suicide Attempt
A woman whose death in a Texas jail has raised suspicions about the official conclusion that she hanged herself told a guard during the booking process that she had tried …
Columbus Joins Other Cities in Removing Mississippi Flag
Columbus has joined the list of Mississippi cities no longer flying the state flag because the design includes a Confederate battle emblem.
Wednesday, July 22
Federal Charges Including Hate Crimes for Accused Shooter
The man accused of killing nine black church members last month in Charleston, South Carolina, was indicted Wednesday on 33 federal counts, including hate crimes, firearms violations and obstructing the …
FBI: Too Soon to Know if Chattanooga Gunman was Radicalized
The Chattanooga gunman who killed five U.S. troops acted alone without help from anyone else, and investigators are treating him as a "homegrown violent extremist," the FBI said Wednesday.
Jurors to Weigh Whether Colorado Theater Shooter Should Die
Jurors quickly dismissed the claim of James Holmes that he was legally insane when he killed 12 people and injured 70 others in a Colorado theater. Now they'll have to …
Appeals Court OKs Tossing Strict North Dakota Abortion Law
A federal appeals court affirmed a ruling Wednesday that struck down one of the most restrictive anti-abortion laws in the country: a North Dakota law that bans abortions when a …
Music
The Israel Blues
As a 5-year-old, Ori Naftaly couldn't stay away from his father's record collection.
Cover
Kitchen-Table Politics: The JFP Interview with Vicki Slater
Vicki Slater spoke with the Jackson Free Press in early July about why she believes she would make a better governor than the incumbent Phil Bryant.
50th, Yet Again
The annual Casey Foundation Kids Count Data Book came out this week, and for Mississippi, the same drum that politicians, advocates and locals have been beating for years will continue …
Stinker Quote of the Week: 'Pay Grade'
We keep redefining marriage, and it's up to the courts to make sure those definitions align with the U.S. Constitution, not religious dogma. In fact, it's exactly what we pay …
Your Purses, Your Nunchucks
Boneqweesha Jones: "Is it that time of the year again? It is at Hair Did University School of Cosmetology and Vocational Studies."
Jacksonian
William Walker
For William Walker, it was the soundtracks of movies such as "Star Wars" and "Indiana Jones"—not their big-budget action sequences and explosions—that enamored him.
Sports
Outlaws in Jackson
Founded in 2007, American Outlaws has become the U.S.'s most prominent soccer support association.
LGBT
The Walls Come Tumbling Down
When marriage equality became the law of the land the morning of June 26, I kissed my husband and went right back to work.
Film
Understanding in a ‘Trainwreck’
Like Quentin Tarantino or Wes Anderson, if you don't enjoy one of Judd Apatow's films, there's a solid chance that you won't enjoy any of them.
Editor's Note
Stonewall, Jackson and the Little Moments that Matter Most
I've had more encounters with police in the three and a half years I've lived in Mississippi than ever before in my life.
Education
Rankin Schools Paying for Religion Violation
Magdalene Bedi, a junior at Northwest Rankin High School in 2013, didn't subscribe to an institutional religion, but considered herself spiritual—and not an atheist.
Food
Gluten-Sensitive Delights
For those with celiac disease, which is about one in 141 people in the U.S., gluten triggers an autoimmune system response that triggers white blood cells to attack the small …
The Slate
Can you believe that the Minnesota Vikings and Pittsburgh Steelers' open training camps begin this Saturday, July 25? The New Orleans Saints start open camp July 29.
Education
Special Ed Vouchers Falling Short
Ian Buckhalter will start first grade in a few weeks. His father, Josh Buckhalter, had him tested and diagnosed earlier this year: Ian has high-functioning autism.
Food
When Art Meets Food
Food trucks are an up-and-coming trend in Jackson, but local food-truck owners Deandrea and Omario Moore of 2 for 7 Kitchen want to change more than just the cuisine scene. …
Theater
Act One, Scene One
This July is the fourth consecutive year for Black Rose to host "A Night of One Acts by Local Playwrights."
Tuesday, July 21
State
Stonewall: Life Across the Tracks
There's a saying amongst black folks in Stonewall, that if it has a motor, they—white cops—don't want you on it.
Education
Mississippi Ranks 50th for Child Well-Being
Mississippi ranks 50th overall in child well-being, according to the 2015 Kids Count Data Book the Annie E. Casey Foundation released today.
Biz Roundup
Chane's New Thing, Diving and Bow Ties
Studio Chane owner Ron Chane will soon bring a new space for local creators to Jackson in the form of The Wonder Lab, located in the basement of Fondren Corner.
Art
Tim Fielder
As a child, Tim Fielder was a fan of science-fiction staples such as "Star Wars" and "Star Trek," but he noticed that African Americans didn't have much representation in intergalactic …
Witness: Man 'Hogtied' by Mississippi Police Before Death
A Tennessee man died after a witness says police in northern Mississippi "hogtied" him on a stretcher.
Monday, July 20
LGBT
'Biblical Marriage' Rally Draws Supporters to Jackson
About 100 supporters of "biblical marriage" gathered at the Capitol steps Monday morning for a rally and prayer vigil that the Christian Action Commission organized.
Music
Delta Rae
Durham, N.C., sextet Delta Rae is eager to meet more of the South and share its patented blend of blues, rock and Americana while touring for its second studio album, …
State
Black Mississippi Flag Supporter Dies in Traffic Accident
A black Mississippi man who often dressed in Confederate regalia to support the state flag has died in a one-car accident.
A Call to Action in Mississippi Horse Trainer's Death
Hundreds of people gathered Sunday night at a baseball park in a small Mississippi town to remember a black man who died after a physical encounter with a white police …
UN Endorses Iran Nuclear Deal with 6 World Powers
The U.N. Security Council on Monday unanimously endorsed the landmark nuclear deal between Iran and six world powers and authorized a series of measures leading to the end of U.N. …
Searching for ET: Hawking to Look for Extraterrestrial Life
Renowned physicist Stephen Hawking and Russian-born billionaire Yuri Milner on Monday announced an ambitious bid to combine vast computing capacity with the world's most powerful telescopes to intensify the so …
Greek Banks Reopen but Cash Limits Remain and Taxes Soar
Greece set a series of landmarks Monday it hopes will shore up its battered economy following months of crisis that threatened its place in the euro.
5 Decades Later, US-Cuba Diplomatic Ties Restored
The United States and Cuba restored full diplomatic relations Monday after more than five decades of frosty relations rooted in the Cold War.
City & County
10 Local Stories of the Week
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.
Friday, July 17
Westin to Break Ground Downtown in Aug.
A long-awaited hotel project announced more than three years ago is scheduled to break ground in August.
City & County
Jackson Working Out Bugs on Tech Issues
The City of Jackson spent close to a half-million dollars this week as part of its ongoing efforts to update its technology systems, many of which are old and outdated …
Greek Bailout Takes Two Leaps Forward
The bailout of Greece took two big strides forward Friday as German lawmakers overwhelmingly gave their backing to another financial rescue and the European Union confirmed it would get Athens …
Despite Quick Conviction, Theater Shooting Trial Isn't Over
Jurors needed only 12 hours to reject the idea that James Holmes was legally insane when he opened fire on a packed movie theater, bringing relief to the families of …
Music
A New Side of Broadside
Before Broadside of Richmond, Va., became one of Alternative Press' "100 Artists You Need to Know in 2015," the band consisted only of drummer and Musicians Institute alumnus Andrew Dunton …
EU Task Force Seeks Mental Exams, Drug Tests for Pilots
A European Union task force on Friday recommended pre-employment psychological evaluations and random drug and alcohol testing for pilots to prevent a repeat of the Germanwings disaster.
Politics
Mississippi Candidates File New Campaign Finance Reports
Mississippi candidates had a July 10 deadline to file campaign finance reports. Here's a glance at how much money the statewide candidates reported raising and spending through the end of …
Thursday, July 16
4 Marines and Gunman Die in Attack on Two Military Sites
A gunman unleashed a barrage of fire at a recruiting center and another U.S. military site a few miles apart in Chattanooga on Thursday, killing at least four Marines, officials …
Justice
Jonathan Sanders Autopsy No Surprise, Town Still on Edge
Although a preliminary autopsy report ruling Jonathan Sanders' death a homicide, caused by manual asphyxiation, came as no surprise to his friends and relatives, they hope it is the first …
Person of the Day
LaMontiez Ivy
This season, if the Tigers are going to climb back on top of the SWAC, a big reason will be quarterback LaMontiez Ivy's play. The highly recruited quarterback finally got …
Education
Judge: Mississippi Not Obligated to Fully Fund Schools
Mississippi legislators are not obligated to fully fund an education budget formula every year, a judge ruled in a lawsuit filed by a former governor.
Judge sets trial for Suspect in Charleston Church Shooting
The man accused of killing nine people at a church in Charleston last month will stand trial next July, a judge ruled Thursday.
70 Years After 1st Atomic Bomb Test, Residents Want US Help
An unknown blast shook the desolate New Mexico desert on July 16, 1945, unsettling the historic Hispanic village of Tularosa.
Jordan Says Iraq Closes Shared Border Until Further Notice
Iraq closed its border with Jordan until further notice, in part to deprive Islamic State militants of taxes they impose on cargo trucks driving through their territory, a senior Iraqi …
Hungary Puts Inmates to Work on Anti-Migrant Border Fence
A fence along Hungary's border with Serbia to stem the flow of migrants will be completed by December, a Hungarian official said Thursday.
Greece Gets Relief from Creditors After First Austerity Test
Greece got a triple dose of good news on Thursday, when creditors agreed to open talks on a third bailout package, to give the country an interim loan to cover …
MSU Observes 50th Anniversary of Holmes' Admission
Dr. Richard E. Holmes became the first African-American student at Mississippi State University when he entered the school on July 19, 1965.
Wednesday, July 15
Education
Hinds Judge Rules State Isn't Required to Fund MAEP
JACKSON, Miss. (AP) — A judge has ruled that Mississippi legislators are not obligated to fully fund an education budget formula every year.
Sports
Mo’ne Davis, Monarchs Take Jackson
Mo'ne Davis and the Anderson Monarchs are touring the eastern United States on a mission to learn about the Civil Rights Movement.
Bryan's Rant
FSU’s Big Problem
At this point in the summer, most of the college football world turns to Media Days and previews of the upcoming season. Two recent incidents at the same school left …
The Slate
Baseball has hit the All-Star break as summer has started to heat up. The Atlanta Braves are currently third in the National League East with the playoffs seeming only a …
chickball
The Bands of Chick Ball
Each year, the Jackson Free Press has tons of talented locals donate time and energy to the cause of stopping domestic violence. Some of them just happen to do their …
chickball
Chicks We Love
Angela Brown attributes her passion for helping others in her community to seeing her grandmother, Binnie Green Adams, do the same for the town of Edwards, Miss., where Brown is …
chickball
‘You’ll Be Safe Here’
Domestic abuse is not always obvious, and someone can be completely in control of her life on paper but not at home.
Answering a Need Not Being Met
Dorothy Day House is the only refuge for homeless families in Memphis, Tenn., the nation's poorest large metropolitan area.
GOP, Stop the Games Over Education Funding
Funding adequate education in the state of Mississippi has morphed into a political battle with consequences beyond school walls.
Through a Child’s Eyes
Children deserve the security of feeling that everything is going to be OK. That they are safe and have nothing to worry about.
City & County
Jackson OKs Resolution to Change Mississippi Flag
The Jackson City Council wants the state to do away with its controversial flag.
Art
Transcendent Art
Watercolor, acrylic and chalk paintings of old southern diners, football stars and country scenes cover every wall in Mark Millet's art studio except the far back one, where an electric …
JFP Interviews
Archie: Poverty, Crime and the Middle Class
This year, David Archie is back on the campaign trail hoping that the votes—at least those that don't prove too apathetic—line up in his favor.
Education
Budget Cuts or Scare Tactics?
Representatives for state workers are decrying proposed budget cuts to state agencies that House Appropriations Committee Chairman Rep. Herb Frierson, R-Poplarville, asked for last week.
City & County
Mo’ Than a Hotel in Fondren
A year quietly in the making, a funky boutique hotel recently announced for the Fondren is about more than giving out-of-towners a place to crash for the night, said project …
Civil Rights
‘A Violent Takedown’ in Stonewall
One week after the death of Jonathan Sanders, a black man killed after a white police officer stopped him in the east Mississippi town of Stonewall, a clearer picture of …
chickball
Aisha Nyandoro
As the executive director of Springboard to Opportunities, Jackson native Aisha Nyandoro's days at work are a hustle and bustle of working around the office, handling administrative business or working …
Cover
Hero of the Year: Butterflies by Grace Defined by Faith
Butterflies by Grace Defined by Faith began as a way to encourage people to put an end to domestic violence. Eva Jones started the group to encourage people to talk …
Domestic Violence
End the Stigma of Domestic Abuse
Last week, a friend asked me if domestic violence is prevalent in Mississippi. The answer is yes.
chickball
Wendy Mahoney: A Woman You Need to Know
In ninth grade, Wendy Mahoney, now 48, took a career aptitude test that told her that her highest interest is helping others, and she would be a good candidate to …
Tuesday, July 14
In Jonathan Sanders Killing, Stonewall 'Pleading for Patience'
Authorities are pleading for patience in a small Mississippi town as they investigate why a black man died following a physical encounter with a white police officer.
Biz Roundup
New Chef at Saltine, Hops for Hounds and SYF Scholarships
Jackson native Jesse Houston recently announced the addition of Andrew Allen as chef de cuisine at his restaurant, Saltine Oyster Bar.
Music
Patrice Moncell
Mississippi music legend Patrice Moncell, 52, died the morning of Monday, July 13, following her hospitalization in Georgia three days earlier.
Monday, July 13
Civil Rights
Attorneys Recount Events in Jonathan Sanders Death
Attorneys for the family of Jonathan Sanders, a black man killed last week after being stopped by a white Stonewall, Miss., police officer, recounted to the Jackson Free Press this …
Civil Rights
Officials: 'Misinformation' Clouds Jonathan Sanders Death Probe
Four days after 39-year-old Jonathan Sanders was killed during an altercation with white police officer Kevin Herrington in Stonewall, the public still knows little about what happened between the men, …
Person of the Day
David Cole
A photo of David's Cole's niece, Jessica Harvery, who was deployed in the U.S. Army in Iraq in 2006, inspired him to create the Cole Tempera Helmet and Vest.
Civil Rights
D'Army Bailey, National Civil Rights Museum Promoter, Dies
D'Army Bailey, a lawyer and judge who helped preserve the Memphis hotel where civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated and turn it into the National Civil Rights …
Iran Talks Hit Final Stage but Deal Remains Elusive
Disputes over attempts to probe Tehran's alleged work on nuclear weapons unexpectedly persisted Monday, diplomats said, threatening plans to wrap up an Iran nuclear deal by midnight — the latest …
Iraq Begins Operation to Oust Islamic State Group from Anbar
The Iraqi government began a long-awaited, large-scale military operation Monday to dislodge Islamic State militants from the country's western Anbar province, a military spokesman announced.
Greece Reaches Deal with Creditors, Avoids Euro Exit
After months of acrimony, Greece clinched a preliminary bailout agreement with its European creditors on Monday that will, if implemented, secure the country's place in the euro and help it …
City & County
10 Local Stories of the Week
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.
Friday, July 10
Education
School Advocates Blast GOP 'Scare Tactics' on Initiative 42
Public-education advocates are taking a top Republican budget writer to task for using what they call scare tactics to defeat an upcoming statewide ballot referendum on school funding.
Person of the Day
Dr. David O'Gwynn
Belhaven University recently named Dr. David O'Gwynn as the new chairman and assistant professor of its computer science department.
State
Mississippi Appeals Order Keeping Court Oversight at Prison
Mississippi prison officials have filed notice that they plan to appeal continued federal court oversight of a Leake County prison.
$10 Bill Change Rankles Descendant of Alexander Hamilton
Doug Hamilton is just fine with plans to put a woman's portrait on U.S. paper money, but he'd prefer that the Treasury Department leave the $10 bill alone — particularly …
Jurors: Court Gunman's 3 Relatives Guilty of Cyberstalking
A federal jury on Friday found that the death of a woman shot by her former father-in-law at a Delaware courthouse in 2013 was the result of cyberstalking by the …
House Bill Would Speed Drug Approvals, Boost Research
Urged on by the medical industry and patients' groups, the House overwhelmingly approved a bipartisan bill that would speed federal approval of drugs and medical devices and boost biomedical research.
Colleges in Cuba, US Build Ties as Diplomatic Tensions Ease
As the U.S. and Cuba mend ties, colleges in both countries are forming partnerships that once were heavily restricted.
American Samoa Questions Gay Marriage Validity in Territory
American Samoa is the only U.S. territory to hold out against the recent Supreme Court ruling that legalized gay marriage.
After 54 Years, Confederate Flag Removed from Statehouse
The Confederate flag was lowered from the grounds of the South Carolina Statehouse on Friday, ending its 54-year presence there and marking a stunning political reversal in a state where …
Thursday, July 9
Civil Rights
NAACP: Gov. Bryant Should Show 'Moral Urgency' on State Flag Change
After South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley signed a bill into law Thursday to bring down the Confederate flag outside the Statehouse—a move that seemed unthinkable only a month ago in …
City & County
Fondren Area Hotel, Solar Plant Planned
Tomorrow, July 10, Roy Decker of Duvall Decker will discuss The Fondren, a planned hotel in one of Jackson's arts districts, at the weekly Friday Forum at Koinonia Coffee House.
Person of the Day
Brian Dozier
Mississippi is full of small towns with major talent. That talent could be musical, literary or athletic in nature. Minnesota Twins second baseman Brian Dozier is one of those talents.
US to Make Marriage Benefits Available to Gay Couples
Attorney General Loretta Lynch says the government will make federal marriage benefits available to same-sex couples following a Supreme Court decision last month that legalized same-sex marriage.
More than 4 Million Refugees Have Now Fled Syria, UN Says
More than 4 million Syrians have fled abroad since the 2011 outbreak of civil war, the largest number from any crisis in almost 25 years, the United Nations said Thursday.
Confederate Flag's Days are Numbered in South Carolina
More than 50 years after South Carolina raised a Confederate flag at its Statehouse to protest the civil rights movement, the state is getting ready to remove the rebel banner.
FIFA Expels Chuck Blazer for life for Bribery, Corruption
Chuck Blazer was banned for life by FIFA's ethics committee on Thursday for widespread corruption, finally ending the career of the longtime most senior American in world football.
Wednesday, July 8
US House Votes to Ban Confederate Flag at Federal Cemeteries
The House has voted to ban the display of Confederate flags at historic federal cemeteries in the deep South.
Bryan's Rant
The Next Generation
The final of the 2015 Women's World Cup had little drama after the U.S. Women's National Team's goal explosion. It didn't have much to worry about after the players scored …
The Slate
Just in time for the return of the football season, The Slate is back. Now let's see if we can put together the "Carli Lloyd" of what to watch this …
Music
The Basics of BomBassic
Before Bruce Bijesse ("Brucey B") and Robert Gray ("Cpt. HyperDrive") began garnering fans nationwide as the electronic duo BomBassic, they were performing as hip-hop act IRD at open-mic nights at …
Art
The Dark Arts of Melissa Bryant
Artist Melissa Bryant likes to incorporate dark, sometimes creepy elements into her artwork.
Learn from History: Change the State Flag
Now, our elected leaders should get on the right side of history, listen to the will of the people and embrace progress. Change the flag.
Stinker Quote of the Week: 'Genocide'
When an advocate of southern secession doesn't sound that much different than a twice-elected governor, it's easy to see how much work there is left to do for reconciliation in …
A Shining Beacon of Light
Miss Doodle Mae: "This summer, the ill winds of intolerance, hatred, racism and terrorism have besieged the well-being of common people around this nation. Then comes a shining beacon of …
Editor's Note
Of Bill Cosby, Frank Melton and Public Moralizing
You'd think that Bill Cosby's targets would have had more power than Frank Melton's troubled "boys," as he called them, but women of any race have never had credibility when …
Cover
Engineering Victory: Joce Pritchett Wants to be State Auditor
Mississippi pride runs deep for Jocelyn Pepper Pritchett, who goes by Joce (JO-see). The only time she has lived out of state was when she was away at graduate school, …
Business
City Announces New Solar Plant To Open in Jackson near Fondren
The city of Jackson announced today that Seraphim Solar, a solar module assembly company, is planning to build a manufacturing plant in Jackson in the commercial district just west of …
JFP Interviews
Stringfellow: Marketing the County’s Assets
Eric Stringfellow's path, from a newspaper reporter in the tiny eastern Illinois town of Danville to candidate for the candidate for Hinds County Board Supervisor, isn't as unlikely as it …
State
Mississippi’s Only Abortion Clinic Safe for Now
Mississippi's last abortion clinic, which has been fighting a state admitting-privileges law for three years, is open—for now.
LGBT
History Repeats Itself in Mississippi After Marriage Decision
While it may not be the only sign of bigotry, discrimination is a clear, 10-million-watt, Vegas-strip, see-it-from-space sign of bigotry for anyone except for the willfully blind.
JFP Interviews
Fuller: ‘Progressive, Sustainable Change’
Henry Fuller recently talked to the Jackson Free Press about stepping out from the behind the scenes to serve on the Hinds County Board of Supervisors.
LGBT
SCOTUS Ruled on Marriage—Not Discrimination
While the U.S. Supreme Court's same-sex marriage ruling was monumental in American legal history and a cause for celebration by LGBT citizens, the reality is that the court ruled on …
Girl About Town
The Beauty of Blowouts
Good hair just makes you feel better, and a blowout can be a little indulgence that just makes you feel more confident, or a little sexier. And who doesn't like …
Food
Schooling in the Kitchen
In the kitchen in the quaint building that houses The Farmer's Table Cooking School, Chef Matthew Sheeter is teaching "Preserving the Seasons," where students learn how to make jams and …
Jacksonian
Phyllis Hurley
Phyllis Hurley remembers when Mt. Salus Christian School became integrated. She served as the principal at the Clinton private academy from 1987 to 2005.
Tuesday, July 7
Biz Roundup
Kemper Rate Hike Illegal, Yoga and Craft Beer Event Ahead
Regulators are ordering Mississippi Power Co. to lower its rates later this month and plan for refunds by November for customers who want them.
Person of the Day
Anthony Holloman
Anthony Holloman, the new vice president of institutional advancement at Jackson State University, prides himself on being a highly motivated businessman.
Crime
Lawyers: Cosby Deposition Could Bolster Criminal, Civil Claims
Bill Cosby's admission that he obtained quaaludes to give young women before sex could bolster his accusers' criminal and civil claims, their lawyers said after The Associated Press reported on …
Regulators Discuss Kemper Refunds for Miss. Power Customers
Mississippi regulators plan to discuss at a Tuesday meeting how to obey a state Supreme Court order to refund about $350 million that Mississippi Power Co. has collected from customers …
Monday, July 6
State
Confederate Flag, Heritage Defenders Rally at Capitol
A crowd of more than 50 people gathered on the steps of the Mississippi Capitol this morning, armed with Confederate flags.
Person of the Day
Jim Hood
Mississippi Attorney General Jim Hood has asked the state Supreme Court to allow a lesbian couple to seek a divorce.
Iran Pushes for End to Arms Embargo in Nuke Deal
A day before the new deadline for a nuclear accord, Iran pushed Monday to lift the U.N. arms embargo on the country as a parallel deal—a demand that the United …
National
South Carolina Lawmakers Return for Confederate Flag Debate
The depth of support for bringing down the Confederate flag gets its first test in the South Carolina Legislature this week as lawmakers return to Columbia to come up with …
Friday, July 3
State
'Confederate Heritage' and Pro-Flag Rally Planned for Monday
Last fall, the Magnolia Heritage Campaign started a petition drive to preserve what it considers Mississippi heritage by acknowledging Christianity as the official state religion and English as the official …
Music
Jason Isbell: Choosing the Right Details
Singer-songwriter Jason Isbell has had a busy couple of years since he last played in Jackson in 2013.
Person of the Day
Dr. John Hall
The American Heart Association presented Dr. John Hall of UMMC with the Award of Meritorious Achievement Wednesday, June 24.
UN Rights Body Backs Call for Accountability in Gaza War
The U.N.'s top human rights body backed calls Friday for accountability in last year's conflict in Gaza, in which hundreds of Palestinian civilians and six Israeli civilians were killed.
Hispanic Leaders Want GOP Field to Condemn Trump's 'Idiocy'
Hispanic leaders are bristling at the largely tepid response by Republican presidential candidates to Donald Trump's characterization of Mexican immigrants as rapists and drug dealers.
Germany Wants Quick Clarification of New NSA Spy Allegations
Germany's foreign minister said Friday that new allegations of U.S. eavesdropping on senior German government officials' telephones need to be clarified "as quickly as possible" and that he hoped Washington …
WikiLeaks' Assange Seeks Asylum in France; President Says No
WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange has failed in a bid to win asylum in France.
Russian Parliament Votes to Adopt Controversial Privacy Law
Lawmakers in the Russian parliament on Friday voted for a bill forcing online search engines to remove search results about a specific person at that person's request.
Thursday, July 2
Storify: #MSFlagDIY Re-Design from Readers
The JFP is encouraging readers to submit their own Mississippi State flag (re)designs under the has tag #MSFlagDIY -- here's what's come in so far!
LGBT
Mississippi's Marriage Equality Fight is Over—Or is it?
"It's over." That was the message from Roberta Kaplan, the attorney who represented lesbian couples in a case to strike down Mississippi's same-sex marriage ban, to an Associated Press reporter …
State
Official: State Prisons 'Hell on Earth' for 40 Years
Since the five-member Task Force on Contracting and Procurement started meeting, the body has aired concerns about the way the agency awards contracts and general complaints about the state's prisons.
Person of the Day
Abby Wambach
Now, at the age of 35, Abby Wambach will have one final chance to capture a World Cup title in the final of the 2015 Women's World Cup.
Gulf States Reach $18.7B Settlement with BP Over Oil Spill
BP and five Gulf states announced a record $18.7 billion record settlement Thursday that resolves years of legal fighting over the environmental and economic damage done by the energy giant's …
Episcopalians OK Allowing Gay Marriage in Churches
The Episcopal Church has completed its embrace of gay rights, changing church law to allow same-sex religious marriages throughout the denomination, just days after the U.S. Supreme Court legalized gay …
Wednesday, July 1
AG: Fifth Circuit Clears Path for Same-Sex Marriage
Gov. Phil Bryant remains opposed to the U.S. Supreme Court ruling legalizing same-sex marriage nationwide, but he's stopping his court fight against it.
Sports
Aaron Holbert’s Baseball Odyssey
Striking out is not meant to be celebrated. Aaron Holbert, manager of the Mississippi Braves, should know this. He has been in professional baseball for 25 years.
Home Cookin’ Capsule
Oxford High School won Mississippi's premier seven-on-seven high-school football tournament, the Medicomp 7 on 7, at Liberty Park in Madison June 27 - 28. Clinton High School placed fifth as …
Books
A Long Time Coming
"Go Set a Watchman," the second novel by "To Kill a Mockingbird" author Harper Lee, will finally be out July 14.
Music
Holding out for The Hood Hippie
If you make something, Malcolm Morrow, creator of Jackson entertainment blog The Hood Hippie, wants to help you. No, really.
Wellness
Lower Your Risk of Skin Cancer
Only a generation ago, many people thought a suntan was healthy. Now, we know it is anything but. In fact, today, doctors know a tan is actually a response to …
Cities, Legislature Should Follow Jackson’s Lead on Hate Crimes
When the Legislature reconvenes in January, lawmakers should strengthen the state's hate-crime law by extending protections to LGBT people and developing uniform reporting standards for all law enforcement agencies.
Stinker Quote(s) of the Week: ‘Good Ole Boy’ Talking Points By You, the Readers
We asked readers on Facebook to share some of the good-ole-boy/girl reasons they were seeing to keep the Confederate emblem in the Mississippi state flag.
Cover
Design Your Own Flag
We want to invite our readers to use this page to come up with a new flag design that better represents the Mississippi of 2015 (and let's be honest, just …
Cover
Sensory Grilling
There are many methods and techniques on the grill, but my favorite has always been the patient, slow burn that comes from smoking meats. It's a method of cooking that …
Cover
2015 Summer Beer Tasting
The beer tasting has become an annual tradition we look forward to here at the Jackson Free Press. This year, we partnered with Raise Your Pints and LD's BeerRun to …
Jacksonian
Jimmy Godby and Frank the Camel
Upon first hearing of Jimmy Godby's latest endeavor, many people cock their heads in confusion, shock or even awe. An electrician of 33 years, Godby, 51, has decided to become …
Editor's Note
Driving Old Dixie Down
It is long past time to declare independence from a "lost cause" that wasn't worth fighting for and from those who insist on keeping us stuck there. Mississippi now is …
Business
Roll the Farmers Union On
A closing sentence in a 1937 Southern Tenant declaration of rights speaks to the hope that union still inspires: "To the disinherited belongs the future."
Cover
Mississippi's Flag: A People Problem
Long a lightning rod, the Mississippi state flag has come under fresh scrutiny in recent weeks following a mass killing of nine African Americans at a church in South Carolina.
LGBT
Elation, Vows for State’s Same-Sex Couples
The party room in Julep restaurant in northeast Jackson was filled with relief Monday night as a group of about 30 people, new and old friends, gathered to celebrate four …
Business
Nothing Personal, Walmart, But Local Is Better
We don't mean to brag, but the Jackson Free Press has long been a proponent of the concept of shopping local first starting nearly 13 years ago when we published …
State
Empowering Low-Income Parents
Rankin County is one of four counties that run a pilot program for parent representation. Mississippi is the only state in the U.S. that does not statutorily provide attorneys for …
Cover
A National (and State) Housecleaning?
It is long overdue, but the nation is talking about slavery now and what the Confederate flag really stands for, what should be renamed and what should come down.
Cover
Rebel Monuments in Jackson and Mississippi
This is a probably incomplete list of metro-area memorials to the war for white supremacy, compiled at the Mississippi Department of Archives and History.
