Thursday, March 31
Judge Blocks Mississippi Ban on Adoption by Same-Sex Couples
A federal judge has overturned Mississippi's ban on allowing same-sex couples to adopt.
Mississippi House Leaders Mull Sales Tax Increase for Roads
Mississippi legislative leaders could propose raising most sales taxes from 7 percent to 9 percent in a plan to increase road and bridge funding.
LGBT
UPDATED: Anti-LGBT 'Conscience' Bill Includes Judges and Clerks, Makes It Harder to Seek Damages
The Senate passed House Bill 1523, the "Freedom of Conscience from Government Discrimination" bill," last night after over two hours of debate, including an amendment that makes it harder for …
City & County
JPS Gifted Students Teach Classmates About Mardi Gras with a Parade
Decked out in feathers and beads and decorative umbrellas, the sixth-grade Northwest Jackson IB Middle School students hosted a lively parade celebrating the historical and cultural significance of Mardi Gras …
Person of the Day
Carlos Diaz
If Jackson State wants to make a run at another SWAC title, it will need catcher Carlos Diaz to continue his stellar play.
Increases Proposed for Mississippi Hunting, Fishing Licenses
The cost of Mississippi residents' hunting and fishing licenses could increase for the first time in a generation to help pay for more state game wardens.
Wednesday, March 30
City & County
JMAA Says Republicans Want to Control Contracts, Rallies Public Against ‘Takeover’ Bill
Warning that the airport “takeover” is about money and control of contracts, members of the Jackson Municipal Airport Authority and its supporters gathered today in the echoing rotunda of the …
LGBT
Anti-LGBT 'Religious Conscience' Bill Passes Senate with Lt. Gov. Tate Reeves' Blessing
The Mississippi Senate has passed a bill that says government employees and private business people could cite religious beliefs to refuse licenses or other services for same-sex couples who want …
Trump Says Abortion Ban Should Yield 'Punishment' for Woman
Republican presidential front-runner Donald Trump said Wednesday that women who get abortions should receive "some form of punishment" if abortion is banned, once again sparking controversy with days to go …
No Charges for 2 Minneapolis Officers in Fatal Shooting
Two white police officers involved in the fatal shooting of a black man last fall will not face criminal charges, a prosecutor announced Wednesday in a decision that drew outrage …
Music
Teneia’s Leap of Faith
Pursuing music professionally is a daunting task, but for folk-soul duo Teneia, it's helped that both members are fully committed to the music—and to each other.
Books
Blind Dates With Books
Little Free Libraries are just what the name says—free book exchanges. Folks build a little house, essentially, in their yard. If you have a book to share, you leave one; …
Cover
2016 Crossroads Film Festival
Crossroads Film Festival celebrates 17 years this year. The 2016 festival features films from filmmakers right here at home and all the way to Japan and beyond.
Cover
Breaking in With 'Blue Borsalino'
London-based filmmaker Mark Lobatto has made some impressive strides in his movie career thus far, and not only because he has worked as the personal assistant to major Hollywood directors, …
Business
Dems Promise Retribution, Evoke Slavery in ‘Hijacked Airport’ House Debate
The black and Democratic caucuses did not pull punches in testimony against the Jackson airport "takeover" bill that passed the Mississippi House March 24, including attempts to modify the legislation …
Business
Jackson Airport CEO Newman Outlines Plans for Hotel, Low-Cost Carrier
The airport's chief executive officer, during an interview at the airport on March 24 just as the Mississippi House was passing its controversial "takeover" bill of the facility, outlined a …
City & County
Parents’ Conundrum: Mississippi Charter Schools
Jackson mom and business owner Tracie James was dissatisfied with the lack of one-on-one opportunities at school for her youngest son, formerly a North Jackson Elementary School student in Jackson …
City & County
The Pain and Danger of Hot Pursuits
When Ward 4 Jackson City Councilman De'Keither Stamps stepped up to the microphone on March 25 at the corner of West Capitol Street and Galvez in west Jackson, he wanted …
Editor's Note
Art and Film that Reach You
Even with the many methods we have for viewing films, being a modern moviegoer can be hard, and it's not because the price of popcorn operates on its own inflation …
Jacksonian
Wade Patterson
Growing up, Wade Patterson wanted to be a novelist. But after reading the book "Moviemakers' Master Class" by Laurent Tirard ($16, Faber & Faber, 2002) during high school, he decided …
Politics
Politicians for Sale? Mississippi Economic Council Knows How to Throw a Party
Funding for the state's crumbling infrastructure didn't exactly top priorities for legislators on their first round of revenue bill deadlines, and Senate Bill 2921 made it over to the House …
Food
Much A’brew at the Zoo
Once a year, Jacksonians gather at the Jackson Zoo to socialize and eat—and drink beer—while looking at the animals.
Cover
The Doo Dah Day Planner: Your Guide to the 2016 Zippity Doo Dah Weekend
With the sheer number of events set for Fondren's Zippity Doo Dah Weekend, which takes place Friday, April 1, and Saturday, April 2, this year, it's tough to commit it …
A Week Without Mirrors
When you pledge to not look at your reflection for a week, it feels good to see the things you love about yourself at first glance.
Business
Mississippi: Amazing for Film
Mississippi and its local communities benefit when the cameras roll here, whether they're big studio Hollywood cameras or those of independent filmmakers.
Film
Human Rights Work Through Film: Lessons from a German Filmmaker
Johanna Richter was not looking for awards with her documentary; she was looking to bring about actual, tangible change in a country she could not quite call her own.
LGBT
Trafficking, Anti-Terrorism Bills Still Alive; LGBT Rights Under Fire, Again
Mississippi has a human-trafficking problem that gets far too little law-enforcement and medical attention, but a bill is still alive in the Mississippi Legislature that would provide more resources to …
Tuesday, March 29
Mississippi House Pushes for a State Lottery, Senate Passage Not Likely
JACKSON, Miss. (AP) — The Mississippi House voted twice Tuesday to establish a state lottery, but the effort is likely to be squashed in the Senate.
Woman Pleads Guilty on Federal Charges in Medicaid Fraud
A woman has pleaded guilty to a mail fraud charge following accusations she stole hundreds of thousands of dollars from senior citizens seeking help to obtain Medicaid or veterans benefits.
Abortion
In Surprise Move, State's Abortion Clinic Added to Bill Restricting Planned Parenthood Funding
In a surprise move Tuesday, the Mississippi House targeted Medicaid funding for the state’s only abortion clinic in addition to the state’s sole Planned Parenthood clinic. The bill would prohibit …
LGBT
Protesters Against Anti-LGBT Bill Shout Down Mississippi Legislators at Rally
Protesters gathered on the steps of the Capitol on March 29 to rally against the passage of HB 1523, which would make discriminating against the LGBT community legal.
Mississippi Bill Could Hamper Access to Same-Sex Marriage
Protesters say a bill in Mississippi would sanction discrimination by letting public employees cite their own religious beliefs to refuse to issue marriage licenses or perform weddings for same-sex couples.
Armed Security Teams OK in Mississippi Churches, Per Senate Bill
Asked to choose between a Christian spirit of peace and a God-given right of self-defense, Mississippi senators are overwhelming favoring the latter.
Politics
Campaign-finance Reform Scaled Back, Will Be Studied Instead
The momentum to bring campaign-finance reform to Mississippi slowed this week, turning into a study to consider whether the reform is needed after the House of Representatives amended a bill …
Biz Roundup
Historic Building for Sale, VF Outlet, Small Business Awards and East Metro Parkway
Sterling McCool with Jackon-based real estate company Marketplace Real Estate will conduct an auction for the historic Sgt. Prentiss Building (1010 Monroe St., Vicksburg) on April 9.
City & County
Report: Roads Cost Each Jacksonian $1,879 Annually, Most Expensive Driving City
It is more expensive to drive in Jackson than anywhere else in the state, a study released from a national transportation research group found.
Person of the Day
Herb Frierson
Gov. Phil Bryant announced Thursday that he is nominating House Appropriations Committee Chairman Herb Frierson, R-Poplarville, to be commissioner of the Department of Revenue.
Police Charge Trump Campaign Manager With Battery
Florida police have charged Donald Trump's campaign manager Corey Lewandowski with simple battery in connection with an incident earlier in the month involving a reporter.
Education
Some Charter-school Students Could Cross Districts Due to New Legislation
Students from Mississippi school districts with academic ratings of C, D or F could cross district lines to attend charter schools elsewhere under a measure moving forward in the state …
Monday, March 28
Woman Will Join Boyfriend in Terrorism Charge Guilty Plea
A young Mississippi woman plans to plead guilty to a terrorism charge, months after authorities say she and her fiance tried to go to Syria to join the Islamic State …
Education
'Save Our Children Act' Amendments Appear in More Bills
Sections of Rep. Omeria Scott's failed Mississippi Save Our Children Act have ended up into another education bill as an amendment weeks after it was added to the already-controversial Parent …
Politics
Secret Execution Team, Firing Squads, Restricted Media Included in House Bill
Death by firing squad could become an option for administering the death penalty if Senate Bill 2237, which passed by the Mississippi House of Representatives on Friday and held on …
Person of the Day
Donald Brooks
Millsaps College's new athletic director, Donald Brooks, is used to working at small colleges and universities. His hiring seems to be the perfect fit for the Majors' athletic program.
Lawsuit Challenges North Carolina Anti-Discrimination Law
Two transgender people and a lesbian law school professor filed a federal lawsuit Monday to challenge a new North Carolina law that blocks local governments from passing anti-discrimination rules and …
Georgia Governor Vetoes Religious Exemptions Bill
Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal on Monday said he will veto legislation shielding opponents of same-sex marriage, after a groundswell of opposition from companies threatening to boycott the state if it …
Politics
Analysis: New Laws Could Mean New Lawsuits in Mississippi
Mississippi legislators are on track to produce dozens of new state laws. And, as in years past, they're probably creating plenty of work for attorneys.
Saturday, March 26
Politics
Mississippi House Proposes Firing Squad as Execution Method
The Mississippi House wants to allow the state prison system to execute prisoners using a firing squad if officials decide lethal injection is too expensive or unavailable.
Friday, March 25
City & County
Capitol Street Coalition: Police Pursuits Endangering Jacksonians' Lives
West Jackson residents, Clinton residents and public officials met this morning at the intersection of Galvez Street and Capitol Street, near the site of the deadly crash that left Lonnie …
Business
Director: Airport in Talks with Low-cost Carrier, 91% Fly Out of Jackson
Minutes after the Mississippi House of Representatives passed the airport "takeover" bill after hours of debate and a Democratic filibuster attempt, Carl Newman traced his fingers across a wall-sized aerial …
Film
Jim Dollarhide
On Thursday, March 16, Jim Dollarhide's home near Lake Cavalier in Madison went up in flames, and on Wednesday, March 23, Madison County Coroner Alex Breeland confirmed that they found …
Removal of Confederate Symbols Turns Nasty in New Orleans
Backlash against a plan to remove prominent Confederate monuments in New Orleans has been tinged by death threats, intimidation and even what may have been the torching of a contractor's …
2nd Case of Zika Virus Found in Mississippi, After Travel
A second case of Zika virus has been confirmed in Mississippi.
Appointed Superintendents Bill Going to Mississippi Governor
A bill headed to the Mississippi governor would eliminate the election of school superintendents after the current term.
Anti-Discrimination Law Elicits Rebukes from Businesses
Corporations expressed disappointment and the NCAA vowed to monitor what North Carolina does next now that the state has banned any local government measures protecting people from discrimination on the …
Mississippi Regulators Plan to Release More Kemper Documents
Mississippi utility regulators say they're going to make it easier for people to look at documents relating to Mississippi Power Co.'s $6.6 billion power plant in Kemper County.
Thursday, March 24
Business
Airport Bill Passes After Filibuster, Accusations Against House Speaker
Despite a massive filibuster, accusations of a deal gone awry and quoting of Bible verses, the Mississippi House of Representatives today passed the controversial airport “takeover” bill today to give …
Volkswagen Gets a Month for Plan on Diesel Emissions Fix
Volkswagen and government regulators must present a detailed plan within a month on getting nearly 600,000 diesel cars to comply with clean air laws or risk the possibility of a …
Business
Capitol Improvement District Passes, Only 10% of Contractors Must Be Minority
A large chunk of Jackson would become an improvement district under a bill that passed the Mississippi House of Representatives yesterday.
Ole Miss Ex-Student Pleads Guilty to Tying Noose on Statue
A former University of Mississippi student pleaded guilty Thursday to placing a noose on the school's statue of its first black student.
Music
Big Freedia
Even though it's only March, New Orleans-based bounce artist Big Freedia has already had a demanding year.
North Korea Claims More Progress in Missile Development
North Korea said Thursday that it had successfully conducted a high-powered, solid-fuel rocket engine test, which if confirmed would be a major step forward in boosting its missile attack capability …
Charlotte Transgender Rule Nixed; Other Cities Reined In
Sparked by backlash to Charlotte's ordinance allowing transgender people to use restrooms aligned with their gender identity, the North Carolina legislature reined in local governments with a broad bill that …
Men Indicted for Stealing Federal Redevelopment Money
Two men have been indicted on federal charges that they inflated bills for urban redevelopment work in Hattiesburg, pocketing $120,000.
Wednesday, March 23
Mississippi Legislative Work is Slowed by Delay Tactics
A handful of Democrats on Wednesday showed dissatisfaction with Mississippi's Republican-dominated legislative process by conducting filibusters with long-winded readings of bills.
Cover
Needed: A More Open Mississippi
Legally, under federal and state law, taxpayers are entitled to full access to what governments employees are doing at pretty much all times, and with few and specific exceptions.
City & County
Police Chief Denies JPD Involvement in Deadly Chase, Charges Driver with Second-Degree Murder
Jackson Police Chief Lee Vance is pushing back on the Clinton police’s version of a recent car chase that ended in tragedy.
Food
Eat, Do, Play This Easter
The City of Jackson is hosting an Easter egg hunt for children ages 4 to 8 on Saturday, March 26, at the V.A. Legion Softball Complex.
City & County
Water Engineer Blues, An Orange Cone Op
The City of Jackson is still out of compliance with the Mississippi Department of Health requirements for a study of corrosion control as of the March 22 meeting of the …
Music
The Sum of Tiny Moving Parts
While listeners don't often find the term "family band" applied to heavier forms of music, Minnesota-based math-rock trio Tiny Moving Parts takes on the title with pride.
Cover
Mississippi Consumer Finance Association Lobbyist’s Client Reports
In 2015, the association spent more than $13,000 to send nine lawmakers and the state's banking commissioner to the convention.
Cover
‘Great State’ Campaign Finance
Rep. Karl Oliver, R-Winona, made waves last week when he told a Mississippi resident that he "could care less" about her concerns about budget cuts, suggesting she leave Mississippi, in …
Cover
Politicians for Sale? State’s Consumer Finance Association PAC Spends Big on State Officials
Payday and small business lenders are not always welcome business development on the municipal level, in no small part because of the cycles of poverty easy-to-obtain, high-interest loans can feed.
Cover
Transparency in the City
Several new technology additions to the City of Jackson will hopefully open up the records of a municipality that has of late been plagued by what some city leaders called …
Civil Rights
The ‘Cloth on the Stick’ Represents Hatred Toward Me
The formation of the Confederacy was solely based on the protection of white Americans to keep my ancestors enslaved. The battle flag came to represent them as a people and …
Collaborating for a Safer Mississippi
In our polarized state and nation, it is mighty refreshing to hear a conservative of faith stand up against truly odious criminal-justice policies that trap men of color, particularly, into …
Politics
Stinker Quote of the Week: 'Care Less'
Rep. Karl Oliver, R-Winona, responded to a Mississippi resident's email, saying "I appreciate you going to the trouble to share your (political views) with me, but quite frankly, and with …
Do What Is Right
Nurse Tootie McBride: "Good afternoon members of the media and concerned community citizens. Welcome to the McBride Family press conference announcing 'The Caravan of Love, Peace, Protection, Self-Defense, Voter Registration …
Business
Post-Uber, Jackson’s Taxicab Drivers Want Fewer Regs, More Freedom
Jackson City Council President Melvin Priester Jr., of Ward 2, wants to re-evaluate the taxi industry in light of policies Uber forced the city to address head-on.
Editor's Note
‘Faith-Based’ Economics vs. Actual Math
Cutting franchise taxes is a major priority of ALEC, the ultra-conservative anti-taxation group to which so many conservative legislators swear fealty.
Jacksonian
Gerold Smith
When Jackson native Gerold Smith, also known as Gerold Girbeau, launched classic hip-hop radio station BDay 99.1 FM, the idea was simple: Mississippians need to be schooled on the old …
Mississippi Senators Seek to End Personal Campaign Cash Use
A Mississippi Senate committee is proposing to ban elected officials and candidates from converting campaign money to personal use, after Associated Press and Clarion-Ledger reports highlighted such practices.
Tuesday, March 22
Business
Amended Airport Bill Increases Jackson's Representation, Sort Of
The City of Jackson might get more representatives on its airport commission, and that board would not have the authority to sell airport property, but could still lease it, under …
Biz Roundup
Amanda's Pet Salon Comes to Fondren, Beagle Bagel Consolidates, Changes at The Outlets and The District
When the annual Zippity Doo Dah Parade comes to Jackson on Saturday, April 2, it will coincide with the opening of a new business in Fondren.
Person of the Day
Chief Phyliss Anderson
President Barack Obama has appointed Phyliss J. Anderson, the first-ever female tribal chief of the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians, to serve on the National Advisory Council on Indian Education.
FBI: Attacker's Phone Possibly Accessible Without Apple Help
The government has been adamant for weeks: FBI investigators need to unlock an encrypted iPhone used by one of the San Bernardino attackers, and Apple Inc. was the only one …
Politics
Senate Passes Residency Requirement for Medicaid
The Mississippi Senate passed a narrower version of a bill Monday that would require an electronic records system for Medicaid and a regular audit of Medicaid recipients.
Michel Rejoins Mississippi Senate After Special Election Win
Walter Michel (mi-SHEL') has rejoined the Mississippi state Senate after winning a special election for a seat covering parts of Hinds and Madison counties.
At Least 31 Dead in Bombings of Brussels Airport, Metro
Bombs exploded at the Brussels airport and one of the city's metro stations Tuesday, killing at least 31 people and wounding dozens, as a European capital was again locked down …
Business
Mississippi Governor Signs Workforce Training Fund Into Law
Mississippi Gov. Phil Bryant has signed into law a bill that establishes a state fund for workforce training programs.
Monday, March 21
ACLU of MS: We Support Clergy for Prison Reform's Platform
Rather than measuring success by projecting reduced costs, CPR is speaking from a moral platform that demands immediacy.
Education
Rep. Moore: Plans to Cut Mississippi School Districts from 148 to Less Than 50
Mississippi would be on the road to 50 or fewer school districts, a new public-education funding formula and more charter schools under legislation the House Education Committee members approved Friday …
City & County
City to Release Data-Driven Website April 1, Many More Documents Online
The City of Jackson is planning to open the doors to its data vaults, promising a new and deep information-driven vehicle for citizens to explore the municipal records and resources …
Judge Asks US to Defend Secrecy of Trump Associate's History
A federal judge has asked the Obama administration to shield from public disclosure court records related to the once-secret criminal history of a former Donald Trump business partner.
Obama, Castro Come Face to Face in Historic Meeting in Cuba
Brushing off decades of distrust, President Barack Obama and Cuban President Raul Castro shook hands Monday in Havana's Palace of the Revolution, opening a meeting aimed at advancing the diplomatic …
Person of the Day
Breanna Richardson
Mississippi State's Breanna Richardson had made a grand total of two 3-pointers this season before catching a pass and launching a 20-footer in the most important minute of her team's …
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.
Politics
In Mississippi, Retiring Officials Can Pocket Campaign Cash
When former Mississippi Lt. Gov. Amy Tuck shut down her campaign committee in the closing days of 2013, she took a parting gift — the $158,342 remaining in the account.
Saturday, March 19
Mississippi House Passes 2 School Consolidation Bills
The Mississippi House Education Committee has passed two bills to consolidate three school districts. The bills passed out of the committee Friday.
Friday, March 18
City & County
Nabbing Carjackers, Property Crimes Up, Violent Crimes Steady
Jackson Police Officer Brandon Caston was off-duty and sitting at a red light when he saw the stolen 2003 maroon Chevy Tahoe pulling into Burger King in his rearview mirror.
Politics
Legislator Funded by Koch Brothers, Big Money Tells Citizen to Leave State
A freshman legislator who won his seat with the help of the banking and real-estate industries, as well as Koch Industries and Empower Mississippi, this week told a concerned citizen …
Bill Would Allow School Boards to Appoint Superintendents
A bill that would change all public school district superintendents to appointees has passed the Mississippi House Education Committee. The bill passed out of committee on Friday.
City & County
Council President: City 'Hiccups' With Public-Records Response Need to End
Council President Melvin Priester Jr. wants the whole of city government, including Mayor Tony Yarber's administration, to make public records a high priority.
Politics
Politicians for Sale? Egg Bowl Rivals Take Care of Lawmakers, No Report from JSU
If the Ole Miss-Mississippi State rivalry extends to Capitol expenses, the University of Mississippi is winning in the department of free tickets for state lawmakers.
Loyola Report: Gulf South Lags on Poverty, Race Issues
The five states along the Gulf of Mexico lag behind much of the nation in measures of poverty, racial disparities and treatment of immigrants, a study released Thursday at Loyola …
Mississippi Senate Committee Passes Guns in Church Bill
A Mississippi Senate committee passed a bill Thursday that would allow guns in churches.
DHS Using Unpopular Raids to Curb Border Crossings
The Obama administration is openly stepping up efforts to find and deport immigrants who were part of the 2014 surge of illegal crossings by unaccompanied children and families.
Miss. Health Officials Urge Tetanus Shots in Flood Areas
Mississippi's health department says free vaccinations against tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis are being offered at county health offices in 29 counties affected by recent floods.
Garland Meets Democrats, Senate Recesses, Groups Up Pressure
Merrick Garland has met with two supportive Senate Democratic leaders and spoken by phone to more of his Republican opponents. But he's moved no closer to weakening the GOP barricade …
Officials: Threatening Letter Sent to Trump Son's NYC Home
Police and the FBI are investigating a threatening letter sent to the Manhattan apartment of Donald Trump's son Eric that contained a white powder, two law enforcement officials said Friday.
Body Found in Burned Home of Miss. Filmmaker
Authorities in Madison County say a body has been found in the fire-damaged home of a Mississippi filmmaker.
Thursday, March 17
State
McDaniel: Highway Bill ‘Unfair Tax Policy,’ Would Hurt Poor, Middle Class
Three hours of heated debate, bi-partisan opposition and five failed amendments later, the last finance bill—to ostensibly fix crumbling highways, bridges and roads—passed the Mississippi Senate by four votes Wednesday.
Kerry Determines IS Group Committing Genocide in Iraq, Syria
The Obama administration on Thursday formally concluded the Islamic State group is committing genocide against Christians and other minorities in Iraq and Syria, a declaration long sought by Congress and …
Syria's Kurds Declare De-Facto Federal Region in North
Syria's Kurds on Thursday declared a de-facto federal region in Kurdish-controlled areas of northern Syria, drawing sharp condemnation from both the Damascus government and its opponents who decried the unilateral …
Cranking Up Pressure, Garland Ready for First Senate Visits
President Barack Obama's choice for the Supreme Court commenced courtesy calls with senators Thursday as Democrats began the next phase of their drive to put unbearable election-year pressure on Republicans …
Business
New Madison Airport Push Potential 'Threat,' Jackson Airport Still in Committee
A new report from the Jackson Municipal Airport Authority reveals a years-long discussion about a Madison County commercial airport, as a bill focusing on the "takeover" of the Jackson Municipal …
City & County
Clergy, Bomgar Call for End to Mass Incarceration, Private-Prison Reform
Rep. Joel Bomgar, R-Madison, stood with an interdenominational Christian group of clergy Wednesday at the Capitol, saying that mass incarceration serves none of his beliefs as either a Christian or …
Person of the Day
Erick Dampier
Today marks the first day of the 2016 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament, but viewers won’t find any teams from our state in the Big Dance. That wasn’t the case 20 …
St. Patrick's Parade Kicks Off in NYC, Gay Groups Included
The nation's largest St. Patrick's Day parade kicked off Thursday in New York City, and for the first time in decades, gay activists are not decrying it as an exercise …
SeaWorld to Stop Breeding Orcas, Making Them Perform Tricks
Finally bowing to years of public pressure, SeaWorld announced Thursday that it will immediately stop breeding killer whales and making them perform crowd-pleasing tricks at its theme parks.
SUNSHINE WEEK: Amid Push for Transparency, Few Colleges Reveal Investments
Colleges and universities are under growing pressure from Congress and campus activists to reveal financial investments made through their endowments, but most institutions are standing firm against the idea.
Lawmaker: Michigan Governor Responsible for Flint Crisis
Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder is responsible for lead contamination in Flint, Michigan's water supply, and would likely face criminal charges if he were running a business, a Democratic lawmaker said …
Survey: More Acceptance of Social Changes, Except Divorce
Americans are more accepting of gay relationships and couples living together before marriage—but they've grown less comfortable with divorce, a new survey shows.
Mississippi Senators Preserve Chance for Road Funding
Opponents are still heaping scorn on an empty vessel of a transportation funding package, but the bill remained alive Wednesday after the Mississippi Senate passed it 34-13.
Senate Seeks to End Possible Subsidy for 3 Mississippi Malls, Including Costco Help in Ridgeland
Some lawmakers want to kill a Mississippi program that subsidizes shopping centers.
Wednesday, March 16
City & County
City to Begin $9 Million Operation Orange Cone Street Repairs—But Which Roads?
The Operation Orange Cone committee has given the go-ahead to begin work on several of the city’s most worn-down streets. However, it is still unclear which streets the work is …
Bryan's Rant
Making Sense in March Madness
While no college or university from the state of Mississippi made the 2016 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament, it still could offer one of the craziest years for March Madness in …
The Slate
The University of Mississippi didn't get an invite to the NCAA or NIT Tournament this season.
Music
More Mississippi Sound
While our state's status as "the birthplace of American music" certainly sounds impressive, it doesn't say much about where Mississippi music is today.
Music
The Mind of David Liebe Hart
Los Angeles-based entertainer David Liebe Hart mesmerized thousands of viewers through his performances on Adult Swim's "Tim and Eric Awesome Show, Great Job!"
Justice
Doing Juvenile Detention Right ... Finally
After a long fight against oppressive juvenile-justice policies and negligent practices in Mississippi, 2012 was a watershed year for juvenile rights in Mississippi.
City & County
City Roundup: Local Control for ’Hoods, Crime’s Root Causes, Taxi Wars
In its third annual attempt, the Jackson City Council worked to approve a resolution to support a private, local fund resource for neighborhood associations to address their local issues, like …
Politics
Side-by-Side Donations: Key Players in Jackson Airport ‘Takeover’ Debate
Sen. Josh Harkins, R-Flowood, and Sen. John Horhn, D-Jackson—airport "takeover" adversaries—both received campaign donations from several of the same PACs and businesses.
City & County
As the Water Turns, City Wrestles Over Corrosion Study
One question has haunted Jackson residents since January: Is the water safe to drink?
Politics
Tackling ‘Corrupting Effects’ of Election Laws
The Mississippi Legislature, at least so far, is showing more willingness to regulate campaign and election practices than at anytime in its history.
Politics
Politicians for Sale? Manufacturers Association Wines, Dines and Takes Lawmakers on Quail Hunts
As pure as the election process might be, democracy has the potential to break down with the influence of money.
Politics
At What Cost? Legislative Majority Tries to Slash Size of State Government
Taxpayers could get a pay raise if the Taxpayer Pay Raise Act of 2016 becomes law, but after two hours of debate last week, several senators asked, "At what cost?"
Obama Nominates 'Serious' Candidate for SCOTUS, Challenges GOP to Put Aside Partisanship
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Barack Obama nominated appeals court judge Merrick Garland to the Supreme Court on Wednesday, challenging Republicans to drop their adamant refusal to even consider his choice …
Editor's Note
Trump’s Politically Correct Call for Bigotry, Hate
It's really hard to find a stronger sign that Donald Trump hopes to become a fascist dictator of people and thought in America, and he's playing to very ugly instincts …
Jacksonian
Father Michael O’Brien
Father Michael O'Brien first met Hal White more than 10 years ago while O'Brien was serving as the priest at St. Richard Catholic Church in Jackson.
FIFA Acknowledges World Cup Hosting Bribes, Asks US for Cash
FIFA acknowledged Wednesday that past World Cups were awarded based on bribes, and the organization wants U.S. prosecutors to give it "tens of millions of dollars" seized from the former …
North Korea Sentences US Tourist to 15 Years in Prison
North Korea's highest court sentenced an American tourist to 15 years in prison with hard labor for subversion on Wednesday, weeks after authorities presented him to media and he tearfully …
SUNSHINE WEEK: Obtaining Police Emails Can Take Months, Cost Thousands
As law enforcement agencies have come under increased scrutiny in recent years, media organizations, watchdog groups and others have become more vigilant about filing public-records requests for emails and documents, …
Congressional Sources: Obama to Nominate Merrick Garland
President Barack Obama will nominate federal appeals court judge Merrick Garland to the Supreme Court, congressional sources said Wednesday.
Politics
SUNSHINE WEEK: Shine Light on Major Donors to Help Democracy
When the U.S. Supreme Court determined that buying political commercials is a form of First Amendment protected speech, it effectively erased a century of campaign-finance limits.
Mississippi House Votes for Small Town Revitalization Fund
Small towns could borrow money from the state to revitalize historic downtown areas under a bill passed Tuesday by the House.
Art
Working on a Different Canvas
While not altogether unfamiliar, Chuck Taylors are a unique medium to work with for many artists, despite being made from canvas. For Martha Ferris, the sneakers' material actually presented an …
Cover
2016 Hal’s St. Paddy’s Parade
The Mal's St. Paddy's Parade & Festival is now the Hal's St. Paddy's Parade & Festival in honor of the late Hal White. Though the parade has undergone a name …
Cover
Play It Again, St. Paddy
With floats, beads and libations abounding, Jacksonians will have plenty of colorful sights and sounds to enjoy during Hal's St. Paddy's Parade, but the party won't end with the parade …
Gov. Bryant, Don’t Perpetuate the Status Quo
To the honorable Gov. Phil Bryant ... I am writing you to express my concerns about your recent decision to declare April "Confederate Heritage Month."
Mississippi House Bill 4—The Irony of It All
Parents for Public Schools vehemently opposes House Bill 4 and its recent amendments.
Feedback: “DJ Young Venom: I Was Kicked Out of Trump Rally for Marvel’s Black Panther Shirt, X Cap” by Onelia Hawa
"... It doesn't matter what clothing he wore. There were students at their own university in another state at another rally who had shown up to listen to Trump speak, …
Cover
Celebrating St. Paddy’s Locally
On the day of the parade, March 19, Jaco's Tacos will host the Bluz Boys from 2 to 6 p.m., followed by a dueling piano bar in which two piano …
Girl About Town
A Tiki-tastic Good Time
Not too long ago, a friend shared an article with me that longed for the resurgence of the in-house cocktail party. Why, it asked, do we always seem to suggest …
City & County
Creating An Inclusive Jackson
Our city is not a unified community largely because we divide and differentiate our space by class and race.
Cover
It's Easy Being Green
In the spirit of St. Patrick's Day, here are some cocktails you and your friends can make this weekend.
Cover
Long Live Hal
Malcolm White decided that because he sees his annual parade as a gift to the city, it could also be a way to continue to honor the gift of his …
Tuesday, March 15
Trump, Clinton win Florida; Rubio Says He's Done
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Latest on the 2016 presidential campaign, with primaries in five states Tuesday and Republican front-runner Donald Trump trying to move closer to nailing down his party's …
Media
SUNSHINE WEEK: Ten Commandments for Open Meetings
Too many elected boards seek every opportunity to meet out of sight of the public they serve.
Person of the Day
Sonya Williams-Barnes
Democratic Rep. Sonya Williams-Barnes of Gulfport is stepping into a new leadership role as chairwoman of the Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus.
Biz Roundup
Thalia Mara Hall, Innovate Jackson, MedeAnalytics and Ryan's Closes in Pearl
Business is booming at Thalia Mara Hall, with the venue selling out shows like never before.
Business
Airport's New Plan: Development, East Metro Corridor, Challenges Prominent
Development of the area around the airport is at the center of the recently released Jackson Municipal Airport Authority's "Strategic Plan 2021."
Civil Rights
Judge: Is Court Proper Place for Mississippi Flag Debate?
A federal judge is ordering attorneys to file arguments over whether courts have standing to decide if Mississippi should remove the Confederate battle emblem that has been on the state …
Politics
SUNSHINE WEEK: Top Mississippi Lawmakers: Email, Schedule Not for Public
Republican leaders in the Mississippi House and Senate have denied a request for email correspondence and information about their schedules, saying the state Public Records Act does not apply to …
New Figures Show Mississippi Has Nation's Worst Jobless Rate
Mississippi's jobless rate is worst among the 50 states, dragged down in part by a low-growth state economy, according to U.S. Labor Department figures released Monday.
Iran Foreign Minister Denies Missile Test Breached UN Rules
Iran's foreign minister said Tuesday that he had deliberately negotiated the wording of the latest United Nations resolution restraining his country's nuclear program to ensure that the test-firing of nuclear-capable …
Obama Administration Loosens Rules on Cuba Travel, Dollar
The Obama administration on Tuesday loosened rules on travel to Cuba and the Cuban government's use of the dollar, removing obstacles to closer ties between the two countries five days …
SUNSHINE WEEK: Even as Political Spending Explodes, Disclosure Remains Hazy
Politicians in Mississippi have used campaign money to pay for such things as a BMW, an RV and $800 cowboy boots.
Monday, March 14
Editorial
SUNSHINE WEEK: Public Needs Year-Round Access to Documents, Meetings, Donation Information
The JFP has long focused on the serious problem of campaign donation transparency in the state, especially that shielded by political action committees, and more recently the problem with city …
City & County
City Lifts Boil Notice, Some Streets Still Under Watch
The City of Jackson has lifted the boil notice for most of the city as they receive results from water tests, while one area still remains under watch.
Business
State Begins Lead Testing of Children, Awaits City's Corrosion Compliance Plan
The City of Jackson has extended a "precautionary boil notice" from last week's treatment-plant shutdown.
Civil Rights
Man Who Filed Flag Lawsuit Has Hired Full-Time Security, Amends Suit
The Mississippi attorney who filed a federal lawsuit against Gov. Phil Bryant has hired full-time security for his law firm staff and family due to death threats after news broke …
Ole Miss Adding Plaque with Context for Confederate Statue
A Confederate soldier statue that has stood for generations in a prominent spot on the University of Mississippi's Oxford campus will soon be accompanied by a plaque giving it historical …
National
SUNSHINE WEEK: Top Mississippi Leaders Fail to Disclose Schedules, Emails
Lawmakers in every state have adopted laws requiring most government meetings and records to be open to the public. But in some states, lawmakers have exempted themselves from complying.
Officer Dead in Shooting Near Police Station; Answers Sought
Police and the public were seeking answers Monday after a gunman opened fire outside a police station in a Maryland suburb of the nation's capital, killing an officer in what …
Water Ebbing in North Louisiana, Rising at Mississippi Line
floodwaters began receding Monday in northwest Louisiana, emergency officials along Louisiana's southeastern border with Mississippi were watching the rise of the Pearl River amid widespread flooding that has damaged thousands …
House Benghazi Probe: Report by Summer, Factor for Clinton
Nearly two years after it was created, the House Benghazi Committee is plowing ahead, interviewing witnesses, reviewing documents and promising a final report "before summer" that is certain to have …
Person of the Day
John David Pennebaker
Former state Rep. John David Pennebaker, who helped create Mississippi's comprehensive four-lane highway construction program in 1987, has died at 72.
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, March 13
Profiting From Probation: 'You Don't Criminalize Poverty'
MURFREESBORO, Tennessee (AP) — When Steven Gibbs couldn't afford the fees demanded by the company supervising his probation, he wound up in jail. When Gibbs — who had been arrested …
Saturday, March 12
9 Operators Propose 14 New Charter Schools in Mississippi
Nine charter school operators say they're interested in opening 14 new charter schools in Mississippi.
Friday, March 11
City & County
Suspects Still At Large, Crimes Against Persons on the Rise, Seeking Solutions
After a relatively low crime season, this past weekend began a very tense week for the city of Jackson.
City & County
Mayor Yarber Voices Frustration Over Potholes, Airport, Water, More on Facebook
Mayor Yarber on Facebook: "It took me at least 15 minutes to begin this post. It took so long because I actually didn't know where to start. In the City …
City & County
Ditto: Capitol District to Free Up Local Repair Funds, Get State to Pay Fair Share
The goal behind the proposed "Capitol Complex Improvement District" is to free up City of Jackson funds to work on more neglected neighborhoods, one of the original architects of the …
Education
Amendment Hijacks Parent Involvement Bill: 'Not About Teachers'
Rep. Gregory Holloway, Sr., D-Hazlehurst, helped mold the Parent Involvement and Accountability Act, which would "grade" parents in C, D or F districts on their involvement in their children's education.
Person of the Day
DJ Young Venom: I Was Kicked Out of Trump Rally for Marvel's Black Panther Shirt, X Cap
Phillip Rollins was sitting in the bleachers at Madison Central High School's auditorium, looking at his phone, when suddenly he noticed people pointing and shouting: "Get him out!"
Wounded Warrior Fires Execs Over Spending Accusations
The board of Wounded Warrior Project, one of the nation's largest veteran support groups, has fired two top officials amid news reports accusing the group of wasteful spending.
ACA Co-Ops Lose Millions in 2015; Some Expect 2016 Profits
The Affordable Care Act's health insurance co-ops absorbed deep financial losses last year, and 2016 is shaping up to be a make-or-break year for these nonprofit alternatives to traditional insurers.
Deluge Swamps Mississippi from Delta Region to Gulf Coast
Rain kept falling in Mississippi Friday as rescuers plucked people from flash flooding and residents along Delta rivers sandbagged against rising waters.
Trump Faces Questions About Rally Violence at GOP Debate
As Republican presidential front-runner Donald Trump attempts to unify a fractured GOP around his candidacy, images of his supporters attacking protesters and allegations that he's inciting violence are casting new …
Repairs to Water System Made, Boil Water In Effect
The City of Jackson reports that repairs have been made to the water system and water pressure is returning to normal.
100 Evacuated in Mississippi as Severe Weather Moves In
The director of the state emergency management agency in Mississippi says about 100 people have been evacuated in the Delta as a result of severe weather.
Thursday, March 10
State
State Tax Cuts Would Divert $575 Million from State Fund
Taxpayers could get a pay raise if the Taxpayer Pay Raise Act of 2016 becomes law, but after two hours of debate today, several senators asked, “At what cost?”
City & County
UPDATED: Mayor Fires Back at Council's Rejection of $400K Contract for Water Study, Says 'Political'
Several council members have spent the last hour and a half questioning the mayor's request to award a $400,000 corrosion study on the city's water to a Texas company run …
Man Gets Second Plea Hearing Over Noose on Ole Miss Statue
A judge has set a second guilty plea hearing for a man federal prosecutors say placed a noose on the University of Mississippi's statue of its first black student.
City & County
After 'Heartbreaking' Violence, Mayor Creates Task Force to Examine Roots of Crime
After one of the most violent weekends in the city this year, Jackson Mayor Tony Yarber announced on Wednesday the formation of a Criminal Justice Reform Task Force.
Person of the Day
Paris Collins
If Jackson State University is going to make great strides in postseason play, the team is going to need big games from Paris Collins.
Reeves, Senators Renew Push for $575 Million in Tax Cuts
Lt. Gov. Tate Reeves and Republican senators are renewing their effort to push through a $575 million package of tax cuts, even as Mississippi officials consider a revenue shortfall and …
Governor Appoints Rep. Coleman as Circuit Judge in Delta
State Rep. Linda Coleman is becoming a circuit judge in the Mississippi Delta.
City & County
City Faces Emergency and Puzzling Water Shutdown; Promises Answers in 48 Hours
The City of Jackson issued an emergency warning early today that citizens must preserve water due to an emergency shutdown. Here's what we know so far.
Sheriff Confirms Man Killed During Mississippi Home Invasion Was Escaped Murder Suspect
A sheriff is confirming that a man who broke into a Mississippi home and struggled for hours with the homeowners before he was shot to death was a murder suspect …
City & County
Indictment: Downtown Jackson Leader Stole and Misused Money
An indictment says the head of a downtown Jackson development group misused money in an investigation that has also led to two high-ranking employees of the Mississippi Audit Department being …
City of Jackson Issues Emergency Water Restriction Notice
Effective immediately, The City of Jackson has issued an emergency water use restriction for all customers served by the City’s Water System. The city’s Department of Public Works has determined …
Wednesday, March 9
City & County
DJP President Ben Allen Indicted, State Auditor and DJP Slam Hinds County DA Investigation
Mississippi State Auditor Stacey Pickering says Hinds County District Attorney Robert S. Smith must drop indictments against two of his employees.
Politics
Rep. Bell: Sanders Too Friendly with Gun Industry, Clinton Best Choice for People of Color
Hillary Clinton understands the complexities of race issues in this country and has a lifetime record of breaking down barriers that hold people back—especially people of color.
Music
The Heavy Journey of Brian Jones
When Jackson native Brian Jones first realized his passion for music as a child, it was something that he found came naturally to him.
Art
Evolving a Vocabulary
At Belhaven University's Bitsy Irby Gallery, Samara Thomas, who goes by Sam, seems at home among the photographs and objects on display.
Politics
I Voted for Sanders Despite the ‘Bernie Bros’
With all of my trepidations, I voted for Bernie because I feel, of all the candidates, he is the one who legitimately has my back.
Fed Up with Underfunding Education
This week it appears that "level" funding for MAEP is here again for 2016, meaning an overall underfunding of the now essentially toothless formula somewhere on the order of $172 …
Disappointed in Rankin County
It seems odd that in a state like ours, instead of passing laws that help us get off the bottom of good lists and from the top of bad lists, …
State Government
Rep. Gipson: Guns in Courthouses Nothing New
Below is a verbatim statement from Rep. Andy Gipson, R-Braxton, in support of guns in courthouses and House Bill 571.
Politics
Execution Teams, Uber Access and Planned Parenthood
The Mississippi Legislature is one step closer to defunding Planned Parenthood services for Medicaid recipients, allowing Uber free rein in the state and guarding the identities of the state's execution …
State Government
Rep. Dortch: Confederate Heritage Month Not 'Worthy of Honor'
Below is a verbatim statement from Rep. Jarvis Dortch, D-Jackson, on Confederate Heritage Month.
Election Reform Still Possible
Mississippi's election law codes could be getting a makeover this legislative session.
Politics
Foster Care Legislation: ‘The Beginning to an End of Madness’
The state's foster-care system, now housed under MDHS as the Division of Family and Children's Services, must comply with a court order in the Olivia Y lawsuit to avoid federal …
Education
Helmick: ‘Private’ Charter Schools Drain Public Schools
When the Jackson Free Press sat down again with Joyce Helmick, president of the Mississippi Association of Educators, she repeatedly called charter schools "private charter schools."
City & County
Jackson Police Officer Shot While Answering Robbery Call
Authorities in Mississippi say an armed robbery suspect shot a Jackson police officer.
Food
Changing Jackson One Dish at a Time
JXN Foodies founder Carlyn Hicks says one day in 2015, as she was walking through Metrocenter Mall, the fact that it looked like a ghost town struck a chord with …
Cover
Inside 'Mason's Inn': Life, Lockup and Learning Inside the Raymond Jail
The Hinds County Detention Facility is an all-male jail that houses about 430 inmates, fewer than 20 of them juveniles.
Publisher's Note
Is the 'Airport Takeover' All About ... A Road?
As the airport "takeover" bill wends its way through the Mississippi Legislature, it's becoming a little more clear that the point of the bill is not to improve airport services …
Jacksonian
Lauren Lyles
A desire to achieve personal fame drives some people; others may find inspiration in getting wealthy. Jackson native Lauren Lyles' motivation stems from her desire to see and help people …
City & County
‘Capitol Complex’ District Would Fund (Parts of) Jackson
Several parts of Jackson will benefit financially if a pair of bills the Mississippi Senate passed last week survives and becomes law.
City & County
What’s Behind the Airport ‘Takeover’?
Since the news broke in January that the Senate was about to wage a "hostile takeover" of Jackson's airport, many Jacksonians wonder if it's about more than who controls operations …
Tuesday, March 8
Trump, Clinton win Mississippi Primaries
Donald Trump has won the Republican presidential primary in Mississippi, edging out Texas Sen. Ted Cruz to post his 13th state victory of the 2016 White House race. Hillary Clinton …
Immigration
'Sanctuary Cities' for Immigrants May Soon Be Illegal in Mississippi
Mississippi municipalities would be banned from establishing "sanctuary cities" for illegal immigrants if a Senate bill, which passed to the House of Representatives yesterday, becomes law.
Biz Roundup
New Downtown Restaurant, Arabella, Mercedes and BankPlus at The District
The District at Eastover, a mixed-use city center and combined commercial and residential space located between the Eastover and Fondren neighborhoods, is preparing to welcome BankPlus as its newest neighbor …
National
Trump Sparks Protests at Madison Central: 'Then It Turned Very Scary'
Republican frontrunner Donald Trump attracted large crowds at Madison Central High School—although far from the 10,000 he claimed.
Officer Must Testify Against Colleagues in Freddie Gray Case
A Baltimore police officer charged in the death of Freddie Gray must testify against his colleagues while he awaits a retrial, Maryland's highest court ruled Tuesday.
Health Law Fines Double for Many Uninsured at Tax Time
Many people who went without health insurance last year are now seeing fines more than double under President Barack Obama's health care law, tax preparation company H&R Block said Tuesday.
Mississippi House Lets 2 Contested Bills Die
The Mississippi House of Representatives has decided to kill two bills by not taking them up for debate.
Monday, March 7
National
Donald Trump's Education Platform: Stop Common Core, Abolish U.S. Department of Education
This evening, Madison Central High School plans to open its doors to a rally for presidential candidate Donald Trump, which might be as much educational involvement the public has seen …
City & County
UPDATED: Surge in Jackson Homicide After Lull in Violent Crimes
This weekend, after two consecutively low weeks of crime in the city, five people were murdered in Jackson.
Mississippi Mostly Overlooked Before Presidential Primaries
Mississippi has received relatively little attention from presidential candidates ahead of its primaries, with campaigns focusing time and resources in several other states.
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, March 6
Analysis: Halfway Through Session, Big Debates Yet to Begin
Mississippi's 2016 legislative session may be halfway over, but debate has yet to really begin on three of the biggest issues.
Saturday, March 5
Cruz, Clinton Pick Up the Most Delegates in Saturday's Contests
WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — In a split decision, Ted Cruz and Donald Trump each captured two victories in Saturday's four-state round of voting, fresh evidence that there's no quick end …
Music
Big Freedia Back on in Hattiesburg: Names Mississippi a 'Right to Twerk' State
Big Freedia has rescheduled a "Twerkloose" show at the Dollar Box Showroom in Hattiesburg on March 25 after the state pressured the owner last month to cancel the show due …
Ole Miss Football Player Speaks Arrested, Charged with DUI
Mississippi defensive lineman Breeland Speaks was arrested early Friday morning and charged with driving under the influence.
Friday, March 4
Business
UPDATE: Airport 'Takeover' Stays Alive as Jackson Leaders Question Rankin Airport Motives
The Mississippi Senate’s so-far successful effort to wrest control of the Jackson Municipal Airport Authority could be more about control of land than airport operations. The Senate takes up the …
Politics
Long-time Republican Charles Evers Joins Madison Mayor, Others on Trump's Mississippi Team
Madison Mayor Mary Hawkins Butler and civil-rights legend Charles Evers are members of Donald Trump's Mississippi Campaign Committee.
Updated Flag Lawsuit Says Rebel Emblem 'Vestige' of Slavery
An attorney is making additional arguments in a federal lawsuit that seeks to remove the Confederate battle emblem from the Mississippi flag.
Education
Mississippi Charter Law One Step Closer to Changing
Tuesday's Senate session rang with reprobation from Sen. Hob Bryan, D-Amory, who spoke bitterly about Mississippi First, a group that he says acts as a front group for charter schools.
Person of the Day
Don Noblitt
Jackson native Don Noblitt recently joined the board of directors for the Parents Television Council, a non-partisan education organization advocating for protection of children from graphic violence, sex and profanity …
Business
Airport Control: 'Not Just a Jackson Fight,' 'Very Expensive Legal Battle' Ahead
One of the few faces in the Senate gallery during the hours-long discussion of the airport "takeover" bill Thursday was that of Jackson Municipal Airport Authority Board Chairman Dr. Rosie …
Grammy Museum Opens in Mississippi Delta
The second and only official Grammy Museum outside of Los Angeles opens Saturday in the Mississippi Delta, cradle of the blues.
Former Police Officer Pleads Guilty in Civil Rights Case
A former Alcorn State University police officer has pleaded guilty in federal court to violating civil rights of someone under arrest.
N. Korea, on Defensive After Sanctions, Makes Nuclear Threat
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un ordered his military to be ready to launch nuclear strikes at any time, state media reported Friday, an escalation in rhetoric targeting Seoul and …
House Would Allow Online Voter Registration, Early Voting
Mississippi voters could register online and vote in person ahead of elections under a bill moving forward in the Legislature.
Thursday, March 3
Business
UPDATED: Airport Bill Passes Senate, Called ‘Hostile Eminent-Domain Takeover'
More than two hours of debate and six failed amendments later, the Jackson airport “takeover” bill passed the Senate by a vote of 29-18 today, leading critics to slam it …
Bill Clinton Speaks at JSU, Visits Cups in Fondren
Former President Bill Clinton says that if his wife is elected president she wants to make student loans more affordable and reduce the number of nonviolent offenders in prisons. Bill …
Judge Rules Alabama Death Penalty Mechanism Unconstitutional
An Alabama judge has thrown out the state's system for imposing the death penalty the same day Florida lawmakers passed a bill to revamp a similar sentencing mechanism.
Florida Overhauls Death Penalty in Bid to Resume Executions
Florida is overhauling the death penalty in a bid to resume executions after the U.S. Supreme Court ruled the state's current sentencing law was unconstitutional.
Abortion
Planned Parenthood Bill Would Limit Cancer and STI Screening, Birth Control
Medicaid recipients seeking birth control, STI testing or cancer screenings at the state's only Planned Parenthood clinic might get cut off if a Senate bill, which passed yesterday and then …
Person of the Day
Shandricka Sessom
Shandricka Sessom has been one of the bright spots for the Rebels this season as they have tried to rebuild their women's basketball program back to being a winner.
Business
Legislators May Override Local Regulation of Uber, Taxi Drivers
Two taxi drivers are suing the City of Jackson over regulations that they say restrict their business, just as city leaders and state legislators work to push through new rules …
Judge Would Be First Indian-American Named to Supreme Court
Sri Srinivasan, a federal appeals judge who was born in India and grew up in Kansas, would be the first foreign-born justice to serve on the Supreme Court in more …
Appeals Court to Hear Arguments in Freddie Gray Case
Maryland's highest court will hear arguments Thursday on whether an officer charged in the death of Freddie Gray can be compelled to testify against his colleagues after his trial ended …
Capital Murder Suspect Escapes Mississippi Jail
Authorities in western Mississippi launched a massive search Wednesday for a capital murder suspect who escaped from a county jail.
Wednesday, March 2
Politics
Jim Hood Says He'll Defend the State In Lawsuit Against State Flag, But Flag Should Change
Mississippi's attorney general said Wednesday that he will defend his state's flag against a lawsuit that seeks to remove its Confederate battle emblem, even though he thinks the flag hurts …
Business
Pair of Taxi Drivers Sue Jackson, Say Regs Give Uber Unfair Advantage
Two taxicab drivers, one from Jackson and one from Star, filed suit against the City of Jackson for what they believe to be “anti-competitive, arbitrary and irrational regulations,” specifically accusing …
Prominent Mississippi Civil Rights Activist James Figgs Dies
James Figgs, a longtime community organizer in the Mississippi Delta who was known for playing crucial supporting roles in the 1960s civil rights movement and beyond, has died. He was …
Art
A Window into Modern Art
In one of modern artist Leon Kroll's most famous works, "Terminal Yards," plumes of smoke travel up into the air from a train yard. Snow blankets the tracks and ground. …
Cover
Nowhere to Go: LGBT Youth on the Move, Without a Home
A 2015 Williams Institute survey of homeless-youth service providers found that the most widely selected reason for homelessness among LGBT youth (as reported to service providers) was "forced out of …
Civil Rights
Mississippi Racism Alive and Thriving
One could argue that racism is as bad today as it has ever been. In Mississippi, it is thriving.
Ben Carson Sees No Path To GOP Nomination
Republican presidential candidate Ben Carson is effectively ending his campaign after a poor finish across the Super Tuesday primaries.
Chaining Mississippi to Its Despicable Past
I'll honor my Confederate heritage when we've done anything substantial to right hundreds of years of wrongs.
Mississippi’s ‘Frivolous’ Lawsuit Conundrum
In one of the poorest states in the nation, litigating cases in the name of religious freedom or conservative idealism is costly.
Politics
Child Protection, Pro-Women Bills Pass Senate; House Roiled in Race Tension
Human trafficking, domestic-abuse and breastfeeding bills easily passed through the Mississippi Senate last week.
Politics
Stayin’ Alive: House, Senate Education Bills to Watch
The webpages for Senate and House Education Committee legislation resemble a text-heavy graveyard of the bodies of bills snuffed out prematurely.
City & County
Lead in Water Devastating to Children, Their Development, Their Futures
Concerns about lead poisoning in Jackson increased in recent weeks since the Mississippi Department of Health notified the city in January that it found lead in some of the city's …
Civil Rights
Dear Gov. Bryant: Stop Pandering to Racism
Leaders like Gov. Phil Bryant must stop holding white Mississippians down to the bigotry of low expectations for fellow white people.
Civil Rights
Lawsuit to Change Mississippi Flag An ‘Uphill Battle,’ But Could Work
A black Mississippi lawyer suing Gov. Phil Bryant for flying the state flag could be successful if he can prove that the state's original intent for putting the Confederate battle …
Music
CeeLo Green: Music for Humanity
Pop artist, TV persona, producer and entrepreneur CeeLo Green has no shortage of accolades behind him. The Atlanta native has garnered a new gaggle of fans at every stage in …
Hitched
Love in Cyberspace
Falconh, the Holy Paladin, stood at rest amidst the bodies of the undead he had slain protecting Gallandriana. With his flaming sword by his side, his blue eyes scanned the …
Proposal: Use Part of Oil Spill Money for Transportation
Part of Mississippi's oil spill settlement money would be set aside to help pay for transportation improvements statewide, under a proposal that moved through the House but is likely to …
Music
The Banner Studios: Setting up Stars
Sneakers squeak down the length of the basketball court at the Boys & Girls Club of Central Mississippi's Capitol Street unit.
Tuesday, March 1
City & County
'Civil Emergency' Fails for Second Time
The second attempt at declaring a civil state of emergency failed at a special meeting of the city council Tuesday, March 1, with Ward 4 Councilman De'Keither Stamps as the …
Mississippi Senate Passes Execution Secrecy Bill
The names of employees and family members at an execution, as well as the pharmacy providing lethal drugs, would be kept secret under a bill Mississippi lawmakers are considering.
Senate Passes Bill Merging Welfare, Medicaid, Rehab Agencies
Mississippi's departments of Human Services and Rehabilitation Services could be combined with its Medicaid agency under a legislative plan.
Mississippi House Back at Work After Partisan Rift
The Mississippi House worked several hours Monday after resolving a partisan fight that halted debate for two days late last week.
City & County
City Works to Clarify Water Status: 'Not Deemed Unsafe,' But 'Flush the Tap'
Jackson Director of Public Works Kishia Powell spelled out precautionary measures people can and, in some cases, should take regarding the city's water.
Biz Roundup
Two Men and a Truck, Bully's, Clubstore Outlet, Sassy Classy, BancorpSouth
Michael Sham, who has been with Two Men and a Truck since May 2013, won his own location and $10,000 to get it started in the Two Men and a …
Music
Drew Young
Since becoming Visit Mississippi's music programs manager in September 2015, Drew Young has represented our state's musical contributions far and wide at events such as the annual Mississippi Night at …
Art
Chrissy Walter's Funkadelic Family
Meet Chrissy Walter, Godfather of Funk George Clinton's daughter (and publicist).
Judge: Convicts Must Pay Hit-and-Run Victim's Heirs $840,000
Four white men convicted in the 2011 beating and rundown death of a black autoworker in Mississippi have been ordered to pay his heirs $840,000.
