Tuesday, June 30
Person of the Day
Genia Lovett
Genia Lovett, a longtime Gannett executive, came out of retirement to take the reins at the Clarion-Ledger in Jackson, the newspaper reported today.
Biz Roundup
First of July Celebration and UMMC LGBT Health Division
Next month, UMMC will open the Division of Gender, Sexuality and Health, dedicated to improving the health and well-being of women and LGBT individuals through research, education, clinical practice and …
City & County
Jackson OKs Hate Crime Reporting Rule
Amid tensions following the mass shooting in Charleston, S.C., and over the legalization of same-sex marriages across the nation, the Jackson City Council this morning passed an ordinance requiring the …
Monday, June 29
Citizens Rally to Change 'Traumatizing' State Flag
On Monday, June 29, citizens, activists and officials rallied in the shadow of the Confederate Women's Memorial, located at the Mississippi Capitol, to call on political leaders to remove a …
LGBT
Mississippi Clerks Issuing Same-Sex Licenses with AG Hood's Approval
Some Mississippi county clerks started issuing marriage licenses to all couples on Monday morning, after Attorney General Jim Hood wrote them promising no "adverse action" in response this morning.
Person of the Day
Laura K. Cooper
U.S. Rep. Bennie Thompson, D-2nd District, appointed Laura K. Cooper as his 2015 Congressional Black Caucus Foundation intern on June 1.
State
Mississippi Bans Text-and-Drive, Repeals Inspection Sticker
Starting Wednesday, people driving in Mississippi can be penalized for sending text messages or posting to social media sites while they're behind the wheel.
Supreme Court Will Re-Hear Texas Affirmative Action
The Supreme Court said Monday it will dive back into the fight over the use of race in admissions at the University of Texas, a decision that presages tighter limits …
Gov. Cuomo: Inmates Had Sights on Mexico but Ride Backed Out
Two convicted murderers who escaped from prison and eluded a massive manhunt for three weeks had initially planned to drive to Mexico but headed toward Canada on foot when their …
Boston 2024 Olympics Organizers Update $4.6B Bid
The group trying to bring the 2024 Olympics to Boston released the most detailed look yet at its bid for the Summer Games on Monday, unveiling a $4.6 billion plan …
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.
Sunday, June 28
Sports
Mississippi Flag Not Flown at USA Track and Field Event
EUGENE, Ore. (AP) — Only 49 state flags are being displayed at the USA Track & Field Outdoor Championships in Eugene this week.
Unmanned SpaceX Rocket Fails on Lift-off
An unmanned SpaceX rocket carrying supplies and the first-of-its-kind docking port to the International Space Station broke apart Sunday shortly after liftoff. It was a severe blow to NASA, still …
Saturday, June 27
Ole Miss Tackle Arrested For Domestic Violence Involving Stepfather
OXFORD, Miss. (AP) — University of Mississippi football coach Hugh Freeze confirmed Saturday that offensive tackle Laremy Tunsil has been arrested in a domestic violence case involving his stepfather in …
Friday, June 26
Same-Sex Marriage: Some in Mississippi Applaud, Some Condemn Ruling
Quotes from people on different side of the debate on same-sex marriage reveal different responses to the Supreme Courts ruling that overturns the ban on same-sex marriage in Mississippi.
LGBT
Mississippi Locals Celebrate SCOTUS Decision but Wait for Marriage Licenses
The U.S. Supreme Court ruled in favor of same-sex marriage in a 5-4 ruling on Friday. In Mississippi, small celebrations broke out on the steps of Hinds County Courthouse, as …
Person of the Day
Jason Dottley
On June 26-28, the Mississippi Museum of Art will host the Mississippi Pride celebration, a gay rights event, with Jason Dottley as a musical performer and emcee.
LGBT
Bryan Fischer of AFA Explodes Over Same-Sex Marriage Decision
Bryan Fischer of AFA has had a lot to say about this morning's U.S. Supreme Court same-sex marriage decision.
LGBT
Mississippi Attorney General: Gay Marriage Still on Hold
Mississippi Attorney General Jim Hood says same-sex marriages cannot take place immediately in the state.
Beheading, Explosion at Factory in France; Suspects Captured
A man with suspected ties to French Islamic radicals rammed a car Friday into an American gas factory in southeastern France, triggering an explosion that injured two people, officials said. …
Kurdish Fighters Battle IS Militants in Northern Syrian Town
Kurdish fighters in Syria besieged pockets of Islamic State extremists in the northern border town of Kobani on Friday, a day after the militants managed to push into the strategic …
High Court Strikes Down 'Vague' Part of Career Criminal Law
The Supreme Court on Friday struck down part of a federal law that is intended keep people convicted of repeated violent crimes in prison longer.
LGBT
Supreme Court Rules: Same-Sex Marriage Legal Nationwide
The Supreme Court declared Friday that same-sex couples have a right to marry anywhere in the United States.
More than 75,000 in Mississippi Keep Insurance Subsidies
Gov. Phil Bryant was among several Mississippi Republican leaders who criticized the Supreme Court's decision Thursday upholding the tax subsidies underpinning President Barack Obama's health care overhaul, as he called …
Thursday, June 25
Health Care
MS Avoids Tremendous Hike in Premiums by Three Votes
This morning the U.S. Supreme Court affirmed the Fourth Circuit decision in King v. Burwell.
Governor: No Special Session on Mississippi Flag Design
Republican Gov. Phil Bryant says he will not call Mississippi lawmakers back to the Capitol to consider removing a Confederate battle emblem from the state flag.
The Rest of Our Race Story
The real challenge today is to understand a point of view different from our own. Yes, we need a conversation about race, but we also need to prepare our hearts …
Politics
Only a Special Session Could Change Mississippi Flag Before January
Since the first cry for the removal of the Confederate flag from the South Carolina State Capitol, the national conversation has broadened to the use of the symbol beyond Charleston. …
Person of the Day
Dundrecous Nelson
Dundrecous Nelson hopes 85 percent is enough right now. After an ankle injury that ended his college career, he is currently 85 percent back to his old self and knows …
EU Leader Urges Crackdown on 'Illegal Migration'
The European Union's president called Thursday for a crackdown on migrants who are only looking for jobs as opposed to those fleeing war or persecution, as migrants keep arriving on …
First Funerals Begin for Church Shooting Victims
Police officers stood guard and checked bags as people filed into a church Thursday for the first funeral for victims of the massacre at a historic black church.
US Capitol's Confederate Statues Prompt Renewed Debate
Alexander H. Stephens, onetime vice president of the Confederacy, sits memorialized in stone, right leg crossed over left, staring sternly into the distance as summer-clad tourists mill about him in …
Supreme Court Upholds Key Tool for Fighting Housing Bias
The Supreme Court handed a major victory to the Obama administration and civil rights groups on Thursday when it upheld a key tool used for more than four decades to …
Supreme Court Upholds Nationwide Health Care Law Subsidies
The Supreme Court on Thursday upheld the nationwide tax subsidies under President Barack Obama's health care overhaul, in a ruling that preserves health insurance for millions of Americans.
Wednesday, June 24
Health Care
Mississippi Had Most to Lose in Obamacare Decision
Mississippi could experience the largest cost spike in health-care premiums in the country if the "Obamacare" premium tax credit becomes unavailable.
City & County
Mayor Tony Yarber: "No need to display a Confederate emblem..."
In Mississippi, our legislative leaders have the power to rid this state of a vestige linked to one of our most shameful periods. Why hold on to it?
Politics
Confederate Flag Divides Mississippi Politicians
In the wake of the Charleston massacre, the nation is questioning South Carolina's Confederate flag, and in turn, looking to Mississippi's state flag that features the symbol.
Art
Unconventional Art: Creativity and Mississippi Comic Con
Some fans anxiously awaited Mississippi Comic Con even before its predecessor, last year's SOPOCU Con, wrapped up. But while founder Greg Hanks hoped to make it an annual event, he …
Changing Flag Is Just a Step Toward Progress
While we applaud House Speaker Phillip Gunn's statement this week that the Confederate emblem should be removed from Mississippi's state flag, we would sound a note of (optimistic) caution.
The State Flag Must Go
As a true son of Mississippi and of the legacy of my Confederate forefathers, I urge you all to support changing the flag.
I’m French Canadian and Irish
Boneqweesha Jones: "Welcome to Ghetto Science Public Television's special edition of 'Qweesha Live Special Report.' Wondering if I will jump on the Rachel Dolezal media bandwagon? The answer is yes."
As SC Honors Church Victims, Alabama Lowers its Flags
The Confederate battle flag was still flying high atop a 30-foot pole outside the South Carolina Statehouse on Wednesday as lawmakers prepared to honor their beloved black colleague with a …
State
Sen. Roger Wicker: 'I now believe our state flag should be put in a museum...'
One of Mississippi's Republican U.S. senators says the Confederate battle emblem should be removed from the state flag because it offends many people and gives a false impression of the …
LGBT
Transgender Man Sues Tower Loan
On April 13, 2015, the National Center for Lesbian Rights, the Southern Poverty Law Center, Altshuler Berzon LLP, and Delaney & Robb filed suit against Tower Loan for discrimination on …
LGBT
Pride and Prejudice: A Life-Long Battle from Civil Rights to LGBT Rights
It was 1962 in Jackson, and Dee Smathers lived in an apartment on State Street with her first college roommate turned lover. Dee's family was living out of the state, …
State
Dan Jones on Mississippi Flag: 'It's Time to Change'
I join my voice to that of others encouraging a change in our state flag. My life experience has offered many opportunities for conversations with many people from all walks …
Editor's Note
O, Speak and We Shall Live
On the night of June 16, 1964, Bud and Beatrice Cole, along with four other adults and two children, were attending a stewards' meeting to discuss finances at the Mt. …
Music
The Bratton Sound
Bob Bratton went looking for a sound, but he ended up creating it himself. The Madison resident has been building custom guitar amplifiers for the past year, but has only …
Home Cookin’ Capsule
Jackson, Miss. small forward Mario Kegler (Callaway High School/Arlington Country Day School) is the No. 36 ranked recruit in the latest ESPN.com Top 100.
Food
Shaken, Not Stirred
I often find myself drinking seasonally. Generally, that means more red wine and full-bodied beverages in the winter and lighter wines in the summer. Spring and summer also make me …
Jacksonian
Julianna Pardue
Julianna Pardue was never far from a comic book when she was a child. Her dad collected them, so she fondly remembers playing around and rifling through his many boxes …
Politics
Alphonso Hunter: Rebuild Hinds County
This year, Alphonso Hunter, 56, is making another bid for the Hinds County District 2 Supervisor seat. He recently sat down with the JFP to talk about his vision for …
After Charleston, South Revisits Its Many Confederate Images
Calls to remove Confederate imagery from public places multiplied rapidly across the South and beyond Tuesday, with opponents eyeing state flags, license plates and statues of Civil War politicians and …
Bryan's Rant
Summer League of Dreams
While everyone waits for football to begin, Mississippi basketball fans can see more of the sport this summer.
Politics
The Mississippi Money Race
Mississippi state executive offices are up for election this year. Incumbent Gov. Phil Bryant and incumbent Lt. Gov. Tate Reeves both have the largest amounts of money at their campaigns' …
Tuesday, June 23
Politics
Lt. Gov. Reeves: Fate of State Flag Will 'Be Decided by the People of Mississippi'
Lieutenant Governor Tate Reeves released a statement today on the Mississippi state flag.
Politics
McDaniel Slams Changing State Flag
Senator Chris McDaniel made the following verbatim statement regarding calls to do away with Mississippi's official state flag.
National
Mississippi Governor: State Flag Not Likely to Change
A top Mississippi lawmaker said Monday that the Confederate battle emblem is offensive and needs to be removed from the state flag.
Biz Roundup
Farish Street Blues and Mississippi Tobacco Settlement
Johnny T's Bistro and Blues is a sister establishment to Norma Ruth's that will focus on quality steak, pasta, seafood and what John "Stax" Tierre says will be his own …
Monday, June 22
State
MS House Speaker Gunn: 'We need to begin having conversations about changing Mississippi's flag.'
JACKSON, Miss. (AP) — A top Mississippi lawmaker said Monday that the Confederate battle emblem is offensive and needs to be removed from the state flag.
National
From Terrorists to Politicians, the Council of Conservative Citizens Has a Wide Reach
When I clicked on Dylann Roof's alleged racist "manifesto" yesterday, I wasn't surprised at all to see the name of the Council of Conservative Citizens name-checked. In some ways, I …
Civil Rights
Agreement Aims to Stymie School-to-Prison Pipeline
The Justice Department said Friday it has reached a settlement with the city of Meridian over policies that had allowed students to be detained without probable cause or legal representation—policies …
Person of the Day
LeMia Jenkins
Jackson native LeMia Jenkins recently returned home from Washington, D.C., and joined the research team at Jackson State University as its new director of federal relations.
White Supremacist Donated to GOP Presidential Candidates
The leader of a white supremacist group cited by Charleston church murder suspect Dylann Roof made $65,000 in donations to Republicans, including several to Republican presidential candidates, The Guardian newspaper …
Iran, EU Hold Nuclear Talks as June 30 Deadline Nears
Iran's foreign minister and European Union counterparts are holding talks in an effort to reach a deal over Tehran's nuclear program before a June 30 deadline.
EU Launches Navy Operation Against Migrant-Traffickers
The European Union launched a naval operation Monday to try to stop human-traffickers from bringing migrants across the Mediterranean to Europe in unseaworthy boats, a lucrative and at times deadly …
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, June 20
DOJ, Meridian Reach Pact on Youth Arrests Complaint
The Justice Department said Friday it has reached a settlement with the city of Meridian over policies that had allowed students to be detained without probable cause or legal representation …
Friday, June 19
A-Rod Hits a Homer to Reach 3,000 Hits In His Career
NEW YORK (AP) — Alex Rodriguez homered for his 3,000th career hit and smiled all the way around the bases Friday night, the highlight so far in what's become a …
NRA Board Member Blames Church's Pastor in Charleston Shooting
A Houston attorney on the National Rifle Association's board of directors is blaming the deadly Charleston church shooting on one of the victims, saying the slain pastor had opposed concealed …
Video Shows Chicago Officer Firing on Black Youths in Car
A retired judge has released dashboard camera video from a Chicago Police car that shows a white officer repeatedly firing his handgun into a car full of black youths who …
Ton of Ivory Crushed in Times Square to Highlight Poaching
Over a ton of confiscated ivory tumbled off a conveyor belt into a rock crusher in Times Square on Friday in a symbolic display highlighting an illegal trade that activists …
City & County
JSU Breaks Ground on Tech, Engineering Facilities
Jackson State University held a groundbreaking ceremony June 18 for a proposed 24,000-square-foot engineering classroom complex, a two-story addition to the College of Science, Engineering and Technology building on campus.
Music
Scott Albert Johnson
Writing, recording and distributing an album is never an expedient process. For Jackson vocalist, songwriter and harmonica player Scott Albert Johnson's latest record, "Going Somewhere," that was especially true.
Iowa Court Allows Remote Dispensing of Abortion Pill
The Iowa Supreme Court has struck down a restriction that would have prevented doctors from administering abortion-inducing pills remotely via video teleconferencing, saying it would have placed an undue burden …
EPA Proposes Tougher Mileage Standards for Trucks
The Obama administration on Friday proposed tougher mileage standards for medium and heavy-duty trucks, the latest move by President Barack Obama in his second-term drive to reduce pollution blamed for …
Rangers, SEALs, Now Raiders: Marines Resurrect Historic Name
The Army has the Green Berets, while the Navy is known for the SEALs. Now, an elite branch of the U.S. Marine Corps will officially be known as Raiders.
US: 35 Percent Spike in Global Terror Attacks in 2014
Extremists in Iraq, Afghanistan and Nigeria unleashed a savage rise in violence between 2013 and 2014, according to new statistics released by the State Department.
World Shocked at Enduring Racism, Gun Violence in US
Often the target of U.S. human rights accusations, China wasted little time returning such charges following the shooting at a historic black church in South Carolina that left nine people …
A Partial List of Attacks on Black Churches in the US
Churches have long played a key role in black communities in the United States. Once, in parts of the nation, church buildings were the only places blacks could gather without …
Thursday, June 18
National
Jackson AME Officials React to Charleston Tragedy
Before tragedy struck in the Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal in Charleston, S.C., with the killings of nine worshippers Wednesday, June 17, AME officials were preparing to convene in New Orleans …
City & County
Hinds County Campaign Finance Reports Are In
Nearly 100 pages of campaign-finance reports have been filed in Hinds County local races.
Crime
White Man Arrested in Killing of 9 in Historic Black Church
A white man was arrested Thursday in the slayings of nine people, including the pastor, at a prayer meeting inside a historic black church in downtown Charleston.
Person of the Day
Calvin Smith
Only a few men can lay claim to being the fastest human in the world. One of those men is Calvin Smith.
Hong Kong Lawmakers Reject Beijing-Backed Election Plan
Hong Kong lawmakers defeated the government's Beijing-backed election plan Thursday, vindicating pro-democracy activists who flooded the streets last year in protest but leaving the city's long-term political future up in …
Serbia 'Shocked' by Hungary's Plans to Build Border Fence
Balkan countries and the European Union on Thursday criticized Hungary's plans to build a fence along the border with Serbia to stop the flow of migrants reaching the country.
US Wonders: Why Stolen Data on Federal Workers Not for Sale?
The Obama administration is increasingly confident that China's government, not criminal hackers, was responsible for the extraordinary theft of personal information about as many as 14 million current and former …
Supreme Court Allows Use of Child Abuse Evidence
The Supreme Court ruled unanimously Thursday that statements that children make to teachers about possible abuse can be used as evidence, even if the child does not testify in court.
Senate to Vote on Defense Policy Bill
Over White House objections, the Senate is poised to pass a $612 billion defense policy bill that calls for arming Ukraine forces, prevents another round of base closures and makes …
Israel Church Set Ablaze in Possible Jewish Extremist Attack
A fire ripped through one of the most famous Catholic churches in the Holy Land on Thursday, damaging the roof and burning prayer books in what authorities believe is an …
White Man Sought in Killing of 9 People in Black Church
An intense manhunt was underway Thursday for a young white man who joined a prayer meeting and then opened fire inside a historic black church in downtown Charleston, killing nine …
Dolezal Was Asked If She Tried to Mislead Howard University
Rachel Dolezal, who has posed for years as a black woman, faced tough questions about her racial identity long before her career as a civil rights advocate was derailed by …
Wednesday, June 17
Home Cookin’ Capsule
Mississippi State University has a national champion runner. Rhianwedd Price won a national title in the 1500-meter at the NCAA Track and Field Championships in Eugene, Ore., Saturday, June 13.
Bryan's Rant
SmackDowns and Tiaras
Father's Day is this Sunday, and I would be remiss if I didn't take some time to discuss my role as a stay-at-home dad. It has been the biggest challenge …
Books
Lessons from Getting ‘Caught’
Even those, like Janice Singleton, who commit white-collar crimes struggle to find gainful employment after they're released, which is one reason that prisons have so many repeat offenders, she says.
Cover
Guys We Love
Each Father's Day, we present the Guys We Love issue, which highlights men who are making a difference in the community. This year's batch is no exception.
Time to Rethink Local Policing Strategies
The B.R.A.V.E. program, adopted from Baton Rouge, started in a section of west Jackson from West Capitol Street to Interstate 20.
My Coming Out Story
The LGBT community grows every year during National Coming Out Day. During this day of courage, "hidden" members of the LGBT community have a chance to reveal their true selves …
JFP Interviews
Sheriff: Crime Has No Boundaries
On June 9, Tyrone Lewis invited the Jackson Free Press to his office to respond to Victor Mason, explain his famous holiday-themed billboards and say why he deserves to remain …
Education
Special Ed Groups on the Fence about Initiative 42
Initiative 42, the citizen-supported ballot measure to fully fund Mississippi's public-school system, boasts of having a broad coalition of support. However, a vocal and influential bloc aren't fully convinced that …
Editor's Note
Givers We Love
I appreciate the presents my dad has bought me in the past, of course, but when it comes down to it, I'd rather hang out with him. I'd rather thank …
Jacksonian
Quincy Mukoro
As the first generation of his family to live in America and the president of his own company, Quincy Mukoro, 33, has had an interesting journey to Mississippi.
State
Private Prison ‘Whack-a-Mole’
Legal advocates for prisoners in Mississippi say the state has failed to follow through on promises to create better conditions at Walnut Grove Correctional Facility and that attempts to address …
Music
The Self-Made Songstress
How many people get to make a living doing what they love the most? The answer: Not enough. But singer-songwriter Elle Carpenter is one of them.
Food
The Boon of Fondren and Craft Beer
In many ways, craft beer's boon mirrors Fondren. Both emphasize local support. As with craft breweries, the vast majority of businesses in the neighborhood are small and local.
Art
First You See It, Now You Don’t
Mississippi Museum of Art's Museum After Hours highlights some of the creative and innovative places and people in Jackson.
LGBT
A Long, Long LGBT Road
Cameron Stewart and Amber Cameron have been together five and a half years. About a year ago, the couple had a backyard wedding ceremony with vows and commitments—but because they …
Tuesday, June 16
Biz Roundup
Barnette's, Mellow Mushroom, Kemper and Gulf Broadband
Mellow Mushroom Pizza Bakers has released its second annual Homegrown Picks menu, consisting of new food and beverage concepts from its own employees.
Monday, June 15
State
My Friend Rachel Dolezal: Walk in Her Shoes
When Rachel Dolezal's story began trending this month, media outlets immediately began shucking the most symmetrical assumptions of race and ethnicity. The headlines ranged from "Hero" to "Hater."
Person of the Day
Jody E. Owens II
Jody E. Owens II, who has worked with the SPLC since January 2011, seems like a natural if not overdue choice to receive the Beth Arnovits Gutsy Advocate for Youth …
LGBT
Mississippi's LGBT Community Awaits Supreme Court Decision
The Mississippi LGBT community is anxiously awaiting a U.S. Supreme Court ruling that could federally legalize same-sex marriage, which would make it legal in the state.
Dolezal Steps Down as NAACP Spokane President
The president of the NAACP's Spokane, Washington, chapter resigned as furor mounted over her racial identity that emerged after her parents said she falsely portrayed herself as black for years …
State
Blogger Gets 2.5 Years Over Senator's Wife Photo Conspiracy
A blogger who pleaded guilty in a conspiracy to breaking into a nursing home and shooting unauthorized video of the ailing wife of a U.S. senator was sentenced Monday to …
Amnesty Urges World to Take More Responsibility for Refugees
Amnesty International urged world leaders Monday to radically overhaul refugee policies and create a comprehensive global strategy to deal with the crisis, describing it as the worst emergency of its …
Europe's Comet Lander Makes 2nd Contact After Waking Up
The Philae spacecraft has been in touch with Earth from a speeding comet for the second time since waking up a few days ago, mission control said Monday, and scientists …
US Archbishop Quits After Archdiocese Charged with Cover-Up
Pope Francis has started making good on his promise to not let even the most senior churchmen get away with sex abuse or cover-up.
Colorado Court: Workers Can be Fired for Using Pot Off-Duty
The Colorado state Supreme Court ruled Monday that a medical marijuana patient who was fired after failing a drug test cannot get his job back. The case has big implications …
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, June 12
Man Charged with Putting Noose on Statue to Plead Guilty
A man charged with hanging a noose around a college statue dedicated to integration and diversity is going to plead guilty.
Business
Clarion-Ledger Loses 4, Including Publisher
The Clarion-Ledger continues to shrink, with the loss of at least four employees, including the paper's publisher, who has been with the company less than a year.
State
2 Officers Hurt at Mississippi Jail; Officials Review Video
Sheriff's deputies were reviewing video surveillance footage Friday to determine what happened during a Mississippi jail incident that left two male officers injured.
Person of the Day
Andrew Bucci
With a legacy that spanned eight decades, Andrew Bucci made a lasting impact on the Mississippi creative economy.
Obama Makes Personal Appeal on Trade with Key Vote in House
President Barack Obama made an unusual, personal 11th-hour appeal to dubious Democrats on Friday in a tense run-up to a House vote on legislation to strengthen his hand in global …
German Prosecutors Close Merkel Cellphone Spying Probe
German prosecutors on Friday closed their investigation into the alleged tapping of Chancellor Angela Merkel's cellphone by the U.S. National Security Agency, saying they have been unable to find evidence …
Another 2,000 Third-Graders Pass Reading Test on Second Try
More than 2,000 third-graders passed Mississippi's reading test when they took it a second time, leaving about 3,400 students statewide at risk of failing.
Thursday, June 11
Judge Rules There's Evidence to Charge Cleveland Officers
Enough evidence exists to charge two police officers in the fatal shooting of a 12-year-old boy who was holding a pellet gun outside a recreation center, a judge ruled on …
Union: Hackers Have Personnel Data on Every Federal Employee
Hackers stole personnel data and Social Security numbers for every federal employee, a government worker union said Thursday, saying that the cyber theft of U.S. employee information was more damaging …
Union-Backed Dems Make Final Push to Kill Obama's Trade Bill
Union-backed Democrats launched a last-ditch effort Thursday to scuttle President Barack Obama's trade agenda by sacrificing a favored program of their own that retrains workers displaced by international trade.
Tamir Rice Case: Judge Rules There's Evidence to Charge Officers
Enough evidence exists to charge two police officers in the fatal shooting of a 12-year-old boy who was holding a pellet gun outside a recreation center, a judge ruled on …
Music
Cruz Contreras
Cruz Contreras, lead vocalist for Knoxville, Tenn. Americana group The Black Lillies, has been a musician for as long as he can remember.
Environment
National Parks Shift Tone on Climate Change
Interpreters at Alaska's Denali National Park and Preserve don't mind sharing warnings about a changing climate and sending visitors away with a directive to be nicer to the Earth when …
EU Launches Antitrust Investigation into Amazon Over E-Books
The European Union's executive branch has launched an antitrust investigation into online retailer Amazon over its distribution of e-books, which have become increasingly popular in recent years.
Justice
Walnut Grove Prison to Remain Under Court Order
There is no question, a federal judge said, that "there are current and ongoing violations of the inmates’ federal rights" at Walnut Grove Correctional Facility.
Milan Appeals for Help Managing Migrants
Milan city officials have appealed for help in managing the huge number of migrants arriving from southern Italy after rescue at sea, as rising numbers are unable to find beds …
FIFA's Top Spokesman Leaves Job, Blatter Urged to Do Same
FIFA's top spokesman left his job Thursday, hours after Sepp Blatter was urged to do the same by the European Parliament.
State Rep. Esther Harrison, D-Columbus, Dies at Age 69
Mississippi state Rep. Esther Harrison, D-Columbus, is being remembered as someone who worked for her constituents without seeking the spotlight for herself.
Wednesday, June 10
US to Send Up to 450 More Troops to Train Iraqis
President Barack Obama ordered the deployment of up to 450 more U.S. troops to Iraq on Wednesday to advise and assist local forces in an effort to reverse the recent …
Murder Charge Dropped Against Woman Who Induced Abortion
A Georgia prosecutor dropped a murder charge Wednesday against a 23-year-old woman whose arrest after taking pills to end her pregnancy baffled even abortion opponents.
Cybersecurity Firm says Spying Campaign Targeted Iran Talks
A cybersecurity firm with close ties to Russian intelligence said Wednesday it uncovered a cyber-espionage campaign targeting hotels that hosted Iran nuclear negotiations, the details of which are among the …
Pope Creates Abuse Tribunal for Cases of Bishop Negligence
Pope Francis has created a new tribunal section inside the Vatican to hear cases of bishops accused of covering up for priests who raped and molested children, the biggest step …
Senate GOP Denies Funds for Lawyers for Immigrant Children
A GOP-controlled Senate panel has blocked President Barack Obama's request for $50 million to pay for legal help for unaccompanied immigrant children coming to the United States after fleeing violence …
Why Americans are Getting New Credit Cards
U.S. banks, tired of spending billions each year to pay back fleeced consumers, are in the process of replacing tens of millions of old magnetic strip credit and debit cards …
Cover
Gunfight! The Showdown for Hinds County Sheriff
The biggest obstacle between Sheriff Tyrone Lewis and a second term is Victor Mason, a former Jackson police lieutenant, who has followed jail developments closely.
Jacksonian
Yolanda Foster
As a child, Yolanda Foster knew she wanted to do something creative when she grew up.
Business
Praying for Help at Nissan
Braving 90-degree temperatures and 50 percent humidity, almost three dozen people showed up on Nissan Drive right by the front entrance of the automobile manufacturer to hold what organizers referred …
State
Debate Rages Over Causes of Abortion Declines
Abortion numbers could be down for multiple reasons, including higher distribution of contraceptives and the lowering of teen-pregnancy rates in states like in Colorado.
Civil Rights
McKinney, Texas: Let’s Reflect and Talk
The night of June 5, police were called to a pool party because, the reports said, a group of black kids had crashed the party and were being disruptive.
Food
What Col. Odom Brought Home from Italy
Mike Odom, who now owns a coffee shop of his own called the CoffeeBAR at the Outlets of Mississippi, has been to more than 50 countries and tried coffee from …
Music
Growing the Gospel Artist Showcase
When Percy Davis and his daughter, Parkisha Davis, started Nighthawk Productions in 2005, he hoped to bring gospel music back to the forefront in the city of Jackson and around …
Civil Rights
Blackness, Leisure and an American Dream
Everyone was sold on the American Dream. The trouble is, when scenes like McKinney play out, it's hard to make a case that black people who bought into the dream …
Home Cookin’ Capsule
Mississippi State University to Madison: Former Bulldog running back Nick Griffin has joined the Madison Central High School football staff as its running backs coach.
Sports
Baseball’s Healing Bond
Sports can seem trivial in times of great tragedy. But after two recent events in Jackson, I'm more convinced than ever of their power to help heal in the painful …
Bryan's Rant
What Is Courageous?
Last week saw much debate over what is courageous or heroic in terms of who deserves an award. The argument started when ESPN announced that Caitlyn Jenner would receive this …
A Simple Battle Strategy
Mr. Announcement: "It's time for the award-winning daytime soap opera, 'All God's Churn Got Shoes.' Today's story takes place at the meeting room of Operation Corporate Backlash. Chief Executive Officer …
Stinker Quote of the Week: 'Private'
We know based on data from the Mississippi Department of Education that children who didn't pass the reading test are concentrated in poorer districts, where families are more likely to …
2016 Is the Year To Make Early Voting a Reality
As we enter the 2015 election cycle, it's worth noting that Mississippi is down to one of only 14 states that has no provision for early voting and requires an …
School Superintendent Drops Graduation Cheering Charges
A Mississippi school superintendent who pressed charges against people for cheering at a high school graduation has now dropped the charges.
Civil Rights
Disturbing the Peace Law: Ludicrous?
Legal experts say Mississippi's disturbance of the peace statute is broad enough to mean whatever police and judges want it to mean.
Tuesday, June 9
Justice
Schools Funding Now Up to State Supreme Court
The fate of an education ballot initiative now rests with the Mississippi Supreme Court, which heard oral arguments in the case this morning in Jackson. The nine justices will decide …
Biz Roundup
Museum Garden, Mint Bankruptcy and Freedom for Food Trucks
The Mississippi Museum of Art will hold a ribbon cutting for the Payton CityFarm Learning Garden Tuesday, June 9, at 5 p.m.
Education
Miss. Justices Hear Debate Over School Funding Ballot Titles
The Mississippi Supreme Court hears arguments Tuesday about how two school-funding initiatives will be presented to voters in November.
Person of the Day
Joseph Kopacz
Bishop Joseph Kopacz, head of the Catholic Diocese of Jackson, is leading a special Habitat for Humanity build called Pope House that honors Pope Francis for his commitment to social …
Monday, June 8
Bribery Sentencing Delayed Indefinitely for Epps, McCrory
Sentencings for former Corrections Commissioner Christopher Epps and businessman Cecil McCrory have been delayed.
Clayton Kelly Pleads Guilty in Cochran Video Case
Clayton Kelly has pleaded guilty to conspiracy for videotaping the ill wife of a senator during election campaign.
State
Abortion Down in U.S., Mississippi, But Why?
The abortion rate in Mississippi and across the U.S. is down, a new AP report released today shows. The question of why, however, is subject to wide and fierce debate.
Person of the Day
Martin McCurtis
Ten years ago in a small apartment, a frustrated husband in a tank top, shorts and flip-flops waited on his wife to finish drying her hair in the living room …
National
Texas Officer on Leave After Video Shows Him Pushing Teen
A suburban Dallas police officer has been placed on administrative leave after a video was posted online showing him pushing a 14-year-old girl in a swimsuit to the ground and …
Court Strikes Down 'Born in Jerusalem' Passport Law
The Supreme Court struck down a disputed law Monday that would have allowed Americans born in Jerusalem to list their birthplace as Israel on their U.S. passports in an important …
Ex-SC Officer Indicted for Murder in Shooting of Black Man
A white former North Charleston police officer has been indicted on a murder charge in the fatal shooting of an unarmed black man who was running away from the officer.
Saturday, June 6
Mississippi Power Credit Rating Falls Over Kemper
JACKSON, Miss. (AP) — Fitch Ratings lowered its credit rating for Mississippi Power by one notch from A- to BBB+ Friday, saying there remain "elevated risks" of financial, regulatory and …
Vigil Held Friday For Murder Victim at High Street Diner
JACKSON, Miss. (AP) — A candlelight vigil was held for a man who died after being beaten and robbed outside a restaurant on Jackson's High Street last week.
Court Lets Mississippi Execution Drug Supplier Remain Secret
The Mississippi prison system can keep concealing the identity of its execution drug supplier while the system appeals an order to release the information, the Mississippi Supreme Court said in …
Friday, June 5
ACLU: Charges for Senatobia Graduation Cheering Infringes on Free Speech Rights
The American Civil Liberties Union of Mississippi says that charging people for cheering at a graduation is violation of freedom of speech protections.
Person of the Day
Ramin Maysami
While finishing up his doctorate degree at the University of Illinois at Springfield, Ramin Maysami decided to spend two semesters studying abroad in Singapore—he came back nine years late.
City & County
Boys, Barbers and Books
Everyone knows that a trip to a barbershop can often mean long waits before you get in the chair—in some cases, extremely long waits. And for kids, it's sometimes difficult …
Thursday, June 4
State
Jones to Research Obesity at Univ. of Miss. Medical Center
Although University of Mississippi Chancellor Dan Jones didn't get his contract renewed, he won't be going far. The University of Mississippi Medical Center announced Thursday that Jones will be leading …
Health Care
Refusing Medicaid: 'Far-Reaching Consequences'
What a new report says is that Mississippians would benefit greatly from the expansion of Medicaid. But what the report really means is that Mississippians—and the rest of the country—are …
Person of the Day
Sepp Blatter
It took two countries, but finally, Joseph S. "Sepp" Blatter, the president of FIFA for the last 17 years, a man who was more Teflon than John Gotti, finally went …
National
Clinton to Press for Early Voting Expansion in States
Hillary Rodham Clinton is calling for an expansion of early voting and pushing back against Republican-led efforts to restrict voting access, laying down a marker on voting rights at the …
Poll: Most Back Legal Status for Immigrants in US Illegally
A majority of Americans support allowing immigrants living in the country illegally to stay and be granted legal status, according to a new poll released Thursday.
G-7 Summit Expected to Lead to Fresh Admonishment of Russia
Western leaders at their weekend summit in Germany are expected to further condemn, but not more strictly punish Russia for its suspected role in the escalating violence in Ukraine.
FBI: Boston Man Talked of a Beheading, Killing Officers
A knife-wielding man killed by terror investigators had planned to behead an unidentified victim, then changed his mind and said he wanted to kill police officers, the FBI said.
South African Police Investigating World Cup Bribes
South African authorities have opened a "preliminary" investigation into World Cup bribery allegations, and an opposition lawmaker said Thursday he had information suggesting "high-level" involvement.
IS Reduces Water Supply to Government Areas in Iraq's Anbar
Islamic State militants have reduced the amount of water flowing to government-held areas in Iraq's western Anbar province, an official said Thursday, the latest in the vicious war as Iraqi …
Wednesday, June 3
Cover
Step Onto the Mat
Lizabeth "Beth" Thrasher and her husband, Chris Thrasher, are the operators of Wingfield High School's Vector Jiu-Jitsu program. The couple refers to their domain behind the school's auditorium as "The …
Al Joyner, Philanthropist and Businessman, Dead at 69
Albert "Al" Joyner, who owned businesses and contributed to charitable causes in Jackson, died today. He was 69.
Republicans Hold on to North Mississippi US House Seat
Republican Trent Kelly says that as Mississippi's newest member of the U.S. House, he will work to strengthen national defense, protect veterans' benefits and reduce federal regulations.
Bryan's Rant
The SEC Leads the Way
A lot happened in the sports world in the last week. The NBA and NHL finals are now set, and the NCAA Baseball Tournament started May 29 and the Women's …
Sports
Randolph Tastes Tour Success
PGA Tour rookie Jonathan Randolph played brilliantly over 53 holes at the AT&T Byron Nelson Classic this past week in Irving, Texas. The final 19 was a welcome initiation into …
Home Cookin’ Capsule
Murrah High School basketball great Jesse Pate passed away on Friday, May 29, from a spinal meningitis infection at the age of 41.
Music
TAUK: Beyond the Genre
New York-based instrumental band TAUK bridges gaps, whether in generations or genre.
Art
Apples and Windows: George Wardlaw’s Journey
Although many of us proudly cheer on some of our Mississippi artists, we continue to overlook those who pushed some of the creative boundaries we take for granted. Between May …
Cover
Local Nutritious Noms
While residents voted Rainbow Co-op and High Noon Cafe as having the best healthy and vegetarian options in this year's Best of Jackson contest, a few other local restaurants made …
Cover
Snakes on a Porch
Snakes are among the least understood, yet most intriguing groups of animals. As temperatures rise, many of the creatures may come out of hibernation. Mississippi is the home of 40 …
Cover
Live Healthy, Locally
Eating healthy is getting easier and easier for Jacksonians. Rainbow Co-op and High Noon Cafe give us easy ways to find good food that's good for you, and they do …
Cover
Healthy App-ing
With smart phones now at the forefront of technology, there really is an app for almost everything you can imagine, from enacting your secret desire to be a crazy cat …
Jacksonian
Lauren Smith
As a personal trainer at the Deville Plaza YMCA, Lauren Smith's job is to encourage her clients during their workouts and hold them accountable for achieving results.
City & County
Low City, County Wages Cause Concern
Despite getting news from an independent consultant that the wage structure the Jackson City Council approved last year might break the bank, supporters of the higher wages are hopeful that …
Editor's Note
What Is Beauty?
Wherever you are, just appreciate the person looking back at you. Half the battle in life is learning to stop hating what you see in the mirror.
City & County
Siemens Reboots, Council Critics Remain Skeptical
Jackson council members are cautiously optimistic as Mayor Tony Yarber's administration lifts a work stoppage for the beleaguered Siemens water-meter upgrade project.
Economy
Group: Women’s Security is Our Security
Wanaki McDuffy is a single mother who is unable to fit both school and work in her schedule. In order to pay for her education, she says she needs a …
Why D-Day Matters
As I waited for my wife and contemplated the seemingly unending horrors that man can perpetrate on other men, I realized that standing here answered the question that I had …
City Should be More Proactive on Siemens Oversight
Nearly four months ago, Jackson's Director of Public Works Kishia Powell brought the Siemens water-meter project to a screeching halt when one of her deputies discovered a major mistake that …
We Are Enslaved Still
If you're white and you're wrong, then you're wrong. If you're black and you're wrong, you're wrong. People are people. Black, blue, pink, green—God makes no rules about color; only …
Tuesday, June 2
Mint the Restaurant Files for Ch. 11 Bankruptcy
Mint the Restaurant, located at the Renaissance in Ridgeland, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection.
Biz Roundup
Torshel, Main Street and HUBZone
Ridgeland resident Israel Martinez decided to start his storm shelter construction company, Torshel, after witnessing the destruction a series of tornadoes in Mississippi caused in 2014.
Politics
Judge's Rewrite of Ballot Title is Final, Attorneys Argue
The Mississippi attorney general's office and attorneys for an Oxford parent say there's no legal right for anyone—including legislators—to appeal a circuit judge's rewriting of a short description for one …
Music
Adib Sabir
Adib Sabir has a different perspective on Jackson music, one gained from nearly half a century in the industry. Growing up in the golden age of Mississippi's blues and jazz …
Zinn or Kelly to Fill U.S. House Vacancy in Runoff
North Mississippi voters were deciding Tuesday who will fill a congressional seat left vacant by the death of a Republican who had just started his third term.
Free Test-Preparation Program for Revamped SAT Goes Online
The nonprofit organization behind the SAT college entrance exam has teamed up with a Silicon Valley pioneer in online education to make test preparation materials available for free starting Tuesday, …
Black and Jewish WWI Heroes Finally Getting Medal of Honor
Two World War I Army heroes—one black, one Jewish—are finally getting the Medal of Honor they may have been denied because of discrimination, nearly 100 years after bravely rescuing comrades …
Monday, June 1
State
Hinds Supervisors Mull Jailer Pay Raises
After the release of a damning report from the U.S. Justice Department concerning conditions at Hinds County jails, officials are eyeing changes to the pay structure for guards.
Politics
Analysis: Bryant Lets Suffrage Bills Stand Without Signature
In his first term, Gov. Phil Bryant has allowed eight bills to become law without his signature. All have been suffrage bills.
Person of the Day
Mike Slive
Southeastern Conference Commissioner Mike Slive unexpectedly stepped down Friday, just minutes after announcing record revenue and a groundbreaking rule.
Justices Rule for Muslim Denied Job Over Headscarf
The Supreme Court ruled Monday for a Muslim woman who did not get hired after she showed up to a job interview with clothing retailer Abercrombie & Fitch wearing a …
Surveillance Powers Lapse with No Deal in Senate
The National Security Agency lost its authority at midnight to collect Americans' phone records in bulk, after GOP Sen. Rand Paul stood in the way of extending the fiercely contested …
Watchdog: Suspected Ex-Nazis Got $20.2M in Social Security
Elfriede Rinkel's past as a Nazi concentration camp guard didn't keep her from collecting nearly $120,000 in American Social Security benefits.
Solar Impulse Plane to Land in Japan Due to Bad Weather
A solar plane attempting to fly around the world without a drop of fuel plans to make an unscheduled stop Monday night in Nagoya, Japan, because of bad weather.
Vietnam: Don't Tie US Weapons Sales to Human Rights Issues
Questions about human rights violations by the Vietnamese government should have no bearing on whether the U.S. should fully remove its ban on lethal weapons' sales to Hanoi, Vietnam's defense …
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.
