Thursday, May 31
City & County
City Finance Director Announces Last Day During Harsh Audit Report
News of Jackson Department of Finance and Administration director Charles Hatcher's departure surfaced publicly for the first time at a Finance Committee meeting this afternoon, while the committee discussed why …
Politics
Lawyers Seek Outside Takeover of Mississippi Foster Care
Lawyers are asking a federal judge to appoint an outsider to run Mississippi's foster care system, saying the state's latest attempt to fix the system's problems has failed.
National
Trump Mulls Commuting Blagojevich's Term, Pardoning Stewart
President Donald Trump said Thursday he's considering commuting the sentence of former Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich, who was convicted of corruption, and pardoning lifestyle entrepreneur Martha Stewart, who served a …
Politics
Candidate Questionnaire: Bennie Thompson
Congressman Bennie Thompson, the only Democratic representative in Congress for Mississippi, has no primary election challengers, and no Republicans are running for his seat.
City & County
Brooklyn Woman Wins $10,000 for Design for New Jackson Signage
A New York City woman has won $10,000 for designing a new promotional look for Jackson signage. Mayor Chokwe A. Lumumba announced the winner of the Unified Signage Competition on …
Person of the Day
Nick Fortes
The Rebels dropped their opener against Auburn University on May 23, losing 3-9. Like most of his teammates in that first game, junior catcher Nick Fortes struggled at the plate …
City & County
Body Cams, Community Policing, Mental Health Funds on JPD's DOJ Wish List
The Jackson Police Department hopes to equip its officers with body cameras and increase its "community policing" capacity with funds from U.S. Department of Justice.
Politics
Candidate Questionnaire: Victor Maurice Jr.
Victor Maurice Jr. is one of six Democratic candidates running in the Senate primary election on June 5.
Music
Cathead's Headliners
Local music festival Cathead Jam is returning for a third installment in celebration of the Cathead Distillery’s eighth year in Jackson. While plenty of the performers are Ardenland alumni who …
City & County
Mississippi Officer Fired After Excessive Force Complaint
A Mississippi police officer has been fired after being accused of using excessive force against a 19-year-old basketball player.
Wednesday, May 30
National
Harvey Weinstein Indicted in New York Rape Case
Harvey Weinstein was indicted Wednesday on rape and criminal sex act charges, furthering the first criminal case to arise from a slate of sexual misconduct allegations against the former movie …
Politics
Candidate Questionnaire: Jeramey Anderson
Jeramey Anderson, one of the youngest lawmakers in the Mississippi Legislature, is challenging whoever wins the Republican primary in June to represent District 4 in November. He does not have …
Politics
Candidate Questionnaire: Randy Mack Wadkins
Randy Wadkins does not have a primary election challenger, and he is the only Democrat challenging Republican Rep. Trent Kelly in November to represent District 1 in Congress.
Politics
Candidate Questionnaire: Steven Palazzo
Congressman Steven Palazzo, who has been in the U.S. House of Representatives since 2011. He has a primary election challenger in Republican Brian Rose, who supports term limits.
Politics
Candidate Questionnaire: Roger Wicker
Sen. Roger Wicker is the incumbent for his own Senate seat, which he has held since 2007. He served in the U.S. House of Representatives before then.
Politics
Candidate Questionnaire: Richard Boyanton
Richard Boyanton is challenging Roger Wicker for his Senate seat in the primary election on June 5.
Politics
Candidate Questionnaire: Michael Ted Evans
Rep. Michael Ted Evans will face Michael Aycox in the June 5 primary to be the Democratic challenger in the District 3 race to fill Rep. Gregg Harper’s seat in …
Politics
Candidate Questionnaire: Michael Aycox
Michael Aycox is challenging Rep. Michael Ted Evans in the Democratic primary race to become the District 3 Representative in Congress.
Politics
Candidate Questionnaire: Sally Doty
State Sen. Sally Doty is the only current politician in the Republican race to represent District 3 in Congress; she faces a crowded primary on June 5.
Politics
Candidate Questionnaire: Perry Parker
Perry Parker, an investor and cattle farmer from Seminary, is running to replace Gregg Harper in the House of Representatives.
Politics
Candidate Questionnaire: Morgan Dunn
Morgan Dunn is a local business owner and health care business consultant running to replace Rep. Gregg Harper in the House of Representatives.
Politics
Candidate Questionnaire: Michael Guest
Michael Guest, the district attorney for Madison and Rankin Counties, is running to replace Rep. Gregg Harper to represent District 3 in Congress.
Politics
Candidate Questionnaire: Katherine 'Bitzi' Tate
Katherine Tate has not raised any campaign finances and is running on a campaign against federal intervention—particularly in schools.
Politics
Candidate Questionnaire: Howard Sherman
Howard Sherman, an investor and husband to actress Sela Ward, is running as a Democrat in the crowded primary for Sen. Roger Wicker’s seat.
Politics
Candidate Questionnaire: Jerone Garland
Jerone Garland, a Kosciusko native, is running in a crowded race of Democrats, who want to replace Sen. Roger Wicker in the Senate.
Politics
Candidate Questionnaire: Jensen Bohren
Jensen Bohren is running in the crowded Democratic primary race for the Senate; he is running on being a “true left-leaning” candidate.
Politics
Candidate Questionnaire: David Baria
David Baria, a longtime state lawmaker, has set his sights on D.C. with a run for Sen. Roger Wicker’s Senate seat; his first challenge will be the crowded Democratic primary …
Food
Ice Cream Magic at 30 Below
Ryan Parmentier says he grew up loving to cook and always wanted to own a food truck. His initial idea was to open a barbecue truck, but after trying rolled …
City & County
EDITORIAL: City Should Prioritize ‘Rainy Day’ Funds for Emergencies
Despite recent catastrophes, the Jackson City Council has been using its fund balance or "rainy-day" fund for city-clerk salaries and festivals—items that are fundamentally non-essential.
Health Care
OPINION: The Right Way to Respond to Drug Addiction
Today in Mississippi, taxpayers fund two contradictory approaches to people struggling with drug addiction. One results in an arrest and possibly jail time. The other offers people health-based treatment.
Editor's Note
EDITOR'S NOTE: Midterm Madness Comes to Mississippi
Editor-in-Chief Donna Ladd and Publisher Todd Stauffer started Best of Jackson almost 16 years ago to uplift the city because back then it was in a bad place, much worse …
Cover
Off To The Races: Mississippi Elections 2018
Mississippians will soon head to the polls for a federal election for the first time since Donald Trump became president in 2016. On Tuesday, June 5, registered voters can choose …
Jacksonian
Marcus A. Williams
After Marcus A. Williams witnessed injustices in his community, such as friends and people he grew up with getting arrested and not having good, fair and adequate representation, he decided …
City & County
JPS: Bond Can Help District Deficiencies
Jacksonians will head to the polls in August to vote on whether Jackson Public Schools will keep its current interest rates on bonds to help fund facility improvements district-wide.
Politics
Rankin’s First Black Mayor Faces Setbacks
Pelahatchie Mayor Ryshonda Harper Beechem became Rankin County's first black mayor in July 2017. A couple of months into her tenure, she raised questions about checks that seemed off to …
City & County
City Blowing Through Its Fund Balance?
The Jackson City Council meetings are falling into a chaotic pattern—the later it gets into the meeting, the more likely you are to see a show-stopping argument between members of …
Tuesday, May 29
National
ABC Cancels 'Roseanne' Following Star's Racist Tweet
ABC canceled its hit reboot of "Roseanne" on Tuesday following star Roseanne Barr's racist tweet that referred to former Obama adviser Valerie Jarrett as a product of the Muslim Brotherhood …
City & County
Jackson Gets Pill Drop Boxes for Prescription Medication
The Jackson Police Department will get five prescription drop boxes for people to dispose of unused, unwanted or old medications rather than keeping them in their homes.
Business
Work Ethic, Honesty High on Mississippi Businesses' Needs, Survey Shows
Businesses in Mississippi are looking for workers with work ethic, honesty and communication skills, a new survey revealed today shows.
Person of the Day
Ryan Rolison
Mississippi left-hander Ryan Rolison delivered in a rare bullpen appearance, and Tim Rowe and Michael Fitzsimmons made sure there was no more drama.
National
Starbucks to Close Over 8,000 Stores for Anti-Bias Training
Starbucks will close more than 8,000 stores nationwide on Tuesday to conduct anti-bias training, the next of many steps the company is taking to try to restore its tarnished image …
World
Man Kills 3 in Belgium With Guns of Stabbed Police Officers
A knife-wielding man stabbed two police officers Tuesday in the Belgian city of Liege, stole their weapons and shot them and a bystander dead in an attack that prosecutors fear …
Monday, May 28
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, May 25
Crime
Judge to Decide Who Will Seek Victim Repayment in Fraud
U.S. District Judge Carlton Reeves heard arguments Friday from Mississippi's secretary of state and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on plans to hire a receiver. Records show Reeves plans …
Business
Workforce Training Cafe Coming to Former Koinonia Coffee House in 2019
The former Koinonia Coffee House was full on the morning of Friday, May 25, as community members attended the weekly Friday Forum where Jordan Butler, project leader for Refill Cafe, …
Music
Spacewolf & the DIY Ethos
It's a simple mathematic principle: Three comes after two. It doesn't exactly tell you when, though. For Spacewolf, the "when" was about five years later.
Education
USM Cancer Foundation Board, New Tuition Structures at MUW, and Belhaven Professor in Top 50 Under 40
On May 17, the Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning Board of Trustees approved three new tuition structures for Mississippi University for Women.
Person of the Day
Adrianna Latrice
When Adrianna Latrice was 15, God spoke to her, she says, and told her that one day she would write a book that would include some of her personal experiences. …
National
Two Hurt in Indiana Middle School Shooting; Suspect Detained
Someone opened fire at a suburban Indianapolis middle school Friday morning, injuring an adult and a child before being taken into custody, authorities said.
Thursday, May 24
Politics
Mississippi Judge Won't Order Governor to Reopen Bridges
A Mississippi judge says he will not order the governor to reopen local bridges that are in poor condition.
National
Officials: Weinstein to Surrender in Sexual Misconduct Probe
Hollywood mogul Harvey Weinstein is expected to surrender to authorities Friday to face charges involving at least one of the women who have accused him of sexual assault, two law …
National
Morgan Freeman Apologizes in Wake of Harassment Accusations
Oscar-winning actor Morgan Freeman apologized on Thursday to anyone who may have felt "uncomfortable or disrespected" by his behavior, after CNN reported that multiple women have accused the A-list actor …
City & County
City Announces Programs to Decrease Youth Crimes; More Youth Summer Programs and Pools
At a press conference on Tuesday, May 22, Mayor Chowke Antar Lumumba announced programs to try to help decrease youth crime, including summer programs and new policing methods.
Politics
Mississippi Will Receive $4.7 Million to Secure Elections
Mississippi county election commissions will be able to apply to the secretary of state's office for federal grant funds to secure elections this year.
Person of the Day
Mike Slive
Mike Slive, former commissioner of the Southeastern Conference, died in Birmingham, Ala., on May 16 at the age of 77.
National
Trump Cancels Summit, Citing 'Open Hostility' by North Korea
In a dramatic diplomatic turn, President Donald Trump canceled next month's summit with North Korea's Kim Jong Un Thursday, citing the "tremendous anger and open hostility" in a recent statement …
Best of Jackson
Fun With Best of Jackson
Summer is a time to hang out with friends under the sun. Recent Best of Jackson winners can help you celebrate the summer season (and beyond). Try these.
Wednesday, May 23
National
Kushner Granted Permanent Security Clearance, AP Source Says
President Donald Trump's son-in-law, Jared Kushner, has been granted a permanent security clearance following a lengthy FBI background check, a person familiar with the situation said Wednesday.
National
Judge: President Can't Block Critics on Twitter
President Donald Trump violates the U.S. Constitution's First Amendment when he blocks critics on Twitter for political speech, a judge ruled Wednesday.
City & County
EDITORIAL: City Must Become Proactive, Not Reactive to Problems
Now that a promising young woman has died because of a massive systems failure in the City, allow us to repeat ourselves: This administration cannot afford to be reactionary to …
Civil Rights
Stand or Stay Out of Sight: NFL Takes on Anthem Protesters
NFL owners approved a new policy Thursday aimed at addressing the firestorm over national anthem protests, permitting players to stay in the locker room during the "The Star-Spangled Banner" but …
Politics
OPINION: The Holy Land, Israeli or Palestinian?
"I've come to the conclusion that the Palestinians have been given a raw deal and are being treated unfairly by Israel, by the American media and particularly now by the …
Cover
Embrace the Heat with Homemade Hot Sauce
Farmer's markets and gardens will soon be overflowing with peppers of all kinds. What better way to embrace the Mississippi summer heat than to make some hot sauce?
Cover
How to Survive a Music Festival
It is officially music festival season. If you find yourself going to one this year, you'll want to be prepared. Here are some tips to survive the event and have …
Jacksonian
Stephen Parks
The American Association of Law Libraries, a national association of law school and court libraries, and independent librarians who perform law research, recently named State Librarian Stephen Parks as a …
City & County
EDITOR'S NOTE: Jackson, Get Your Community Together
Sure, if you come from a bigger city, there may be less to do here in Jackson, but you have many options, even if it's just going to the Mississippi …
City & County
Kingston Frazier, One Year Later
On a sweltering Friday evening, orange cones blocked off Meadow Lane as the neighborhood came together on May 18 for a commemorative graduation and block party for Kingston Frazier, the …
City & County
Mississippi: Up to 7,000 Bodies from Asylum May Be in Field
Researchers are planning to exhume as many as 7,000 bodies that were buried at Mississippi's former insane asylum, create a memorial and study them for insight on how the mentally …
Education
Are Teacher Walkouts Possible in Mississippi?
Teachers in Oklahoma, West Virginia, Arizona, Colorado, Kentucky and now North Carolina have made national headlines as they strike for better wages, policy matters and other various reasons.
City & County
What Lumumba’s ‘A-Team’ Earns
As we get nearer to annual budget hearings in the City of Jackson, you can almost feel the tension mounting around money issues.
Tuesday, May 22
National
Congress Moves to Dismantle Key Post-Crisis Bank Rules
Congress moved Tuesday to dismantle a chunk of the rules framework for banks, installed to prevent a recurrence of the 2008 financial crisis that brought millions of lost jobs and …
City & County
Lawyers Say JPD Officer May Have Killed Twice, Demands More Names
Attorneys for the family of Crystalline Barnes, killed by Jackson police on Jan. 27, 2018, is demanding to know the names of officers who shot Jacksonians in incidents over the …
City & County
Lumumba Cites 'Failures' That Led to Death of Frances Fortner
On behalf of the City of Jackson, Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba has accepted responsibility for not preventing the accident that killed Frances "Franny" Fortner.
Person of the Day
Ira Murray
The United Way of the Capital Area Board of Trustees recently named Ira Murray as the organization's new president and chief executive officer.
Biz Roundup
Ripley's Believe It or Not! At Science Museum, CAPE Art Residencies and Families First Resource Center
The Mississippi Museum of Natural Science launched a new exhibit called "The Science of Ripley's Believe It or Not!" on Saturday, May 19.
Education
Mississippi Cuts Math Teacher Test Score, Citing Shortage
Mississippi is lowering the standardized test score that a student must achieve to become a middle school or high school math teacher, citing a teacher shortage.
Civil Rights
More Bipartisan Support for Civil Rights Site as US Monument
Republican U.S. Sens. Roger Wicker and Cindy Hyde-Smith of Mississippi and Democratic Sen. Doug Jones of Alabama introduced a bill Monday to make the Medgar Evers home a monument.
Monday, May 21
Education
Tuition, Rooms, Meals to Increase at All Public Universities in Mississippi
The costs of tuition, room and board, and meal plans at Mississippi's public universities are rising in the 2019-2020 academic year.
Civil Rights
Poor People's Campaign Seeks a 'Moral Revival' in State, Nation
Dozens of Mississippians gathered at the state Capitol on Monday, May 14, in coordination with more than 40 other Poor People's Campaign rallies throughout the country.
Person of the Day
Blake Thompson
Mississippi College trustees on Monday said they had chosen Blake Thompson to lead the 5,000-student Baptist-affiliated institution.
National
Divided Supreme Court Rules for Businesses Over Workers
The Supreme Court says employers can prohibit their workers from banding together to dispute their pay and conditions in the workplace, an important victory for business interests.
State
Three Mississippi Names Added to US Law Enforcement Memorial
The state's U.S. senators say the names of three Mississippi officers have been added to the National Law Enforcement Memorial in Washington.
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, May 18
City & County
Public Works on Manholes: Unaware of Other Uncovered Ones in Jackson
A Jackson Academy senior died after her vehicle hit a manhole and flipped upside down on Ridgewood Road near Venetian Way on Thursday, May 17.
State
Afroman to Settle Suit Filed Over Mississippi Assault, Song
Musician and rapper Afroman is settling a lawsuit filed by a woman he punched during a 2015 Mississippi performance.
Education
Next Generation Harvey and HOYO at USM, and Common App at MSU
The University of Southern Mississippi's College of Nursing Clinical Simulation Lab recently purchased three new patient simulators using a donation from USM benefactors Chuck and Rita Scianna.
Music
Brandon Mitchell and S.W.A.P.'s "Amazing" Return
For Jackson gospel group Brandon Mitchell & S.W.A.P., a little discouragement has helped pave the way for a greater source of encouragement on their sophomore album, "Amazing."
National
Gunman Opens Fire in Texas High School, Killing Up to 10
At least one gunman opened fire at a Houston-area high school Friday, killing eight to 10 people, most of them students, authorities said.
National
Trump to Deny Funds to Clinics that Refer for Abortion
The Trump administration will resurrect a Reagan-era rule banning federally funded family planning clinics from referring women for abortions, or sharing space with abortion providers.
Thursday, May 17
Politics
Mississippi Proposes Rules to Govern Legal Sports Betting
The state Gaming Commission on Thursday proposed rules to govern sports books at Mississippi's 28 licensed casinos.
City & County
Encouraging Mississippians to 'Think Again' About Mental Illness
It was a blistering morning, but people from state government, nonprofit and advocacy organizations gathered at the Capitol to launch a public-health campaign, encouraging Mississippians to "think again" about their …
City & County
Hope, Sadness at JPD Service Honoring 17 Officers Killed Since 1893
In the sweltering Wednesday heat, the Jackson Police Department put on its annual Police Memorial Service to honor and commemorate the 17 JPD officers who have died in the line …
Education
Trustees Give Final Approval to University Tuition Increases
Trustees of Mississippi's eight public universities are giving final approval for tuition increases next fall.
Person of the Day
Zack Shannon
Historically, Delta State University has fielded one of the top baseball teams at the Division II level. Last season, the Statesmen reached the Division II NCAA College World Series behind …
National
Hawaii Volcano Erupts from Summit, Sends Huge Plume into Sky
Hawaii's Kilauea volcano erupted from its summit before dawn Thursday, shooting a dusty plume of ash about 30,000 feet (9,100 meters) into the sky.
National
Trump Reimbursed Michael Cohen as Much as $250,000 for Unspecified "Expenses"
President Donald Trump revealed in his financial disclosure that he reimbursed personal attorney Michael Cohen as much as $250,000 for unspecified "expenses," with no mention of a $130,000 payment to …
Wednesday, May 16
Art
Midtown Celebration
Since Midfest's start in 2014, the street festival and block party has been focused on celebrating what the midtown area has to offer, showcasing local businesses and the creative talents …
City & County
A Lost Hope: Remembering Lil Lonnie and 2018’s Deadliest Month
Rising hip-hop artist Lonnie "Lil Lonnie" Taylor, 22, was driving around his hometown of Jackson with a woman in the passenger's seat around 10 p.m. on April 29. Suddenly, someone …
City & County
EDITOR'S NOTE: Jackson, Lil Lonnie Must Not Die in Vain
When Lil Lonnie died in his car near the home where a white supremacist shot down Medgar Evers in 1963 in front of his children, in a neighborhood where kids …
Jacksonian
Andrea Reid
When Andrea Reid, 33, and her husband, Kevin Reid, were beginning CityHeart Church, she says they often asked themselves why Jackson needs another church when it has so many.
Editorial
EDITORIAL: Feds Must Stop Cruel Deportations, Rethink ‘War on Drugs’
Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers are arresting more undocumented immigrants now than under the previous administration—nonviolent undocumented men and women as Donald Trump uses scare tactics about dangerous immigrant gangs …
Immigration
Undocumented and Caught in the System
Traditionally, the Federal Bureau of Prisons houses undocumented immigrants charged with federal crimes in "criminal alien requirement" facilities. Private prison corporations run the BOP's 11 contract prisons.
State
‘I’m So Scared’: Saving Kids from Suicide
In 2016, 385 Mississippians committed suicide, statistics from the Mississippi Department of Health show, which means more than one person per day took his or her own life in the …
Civil Rights
Mississippi Civil Rights Sites Vie to Become National Park
It is hard to choose which site of civil-rights trauma in Mississippi should be a national park, but the effort is under way and controversial, even among some family members …
Politics
Mississippi Treasurer Intends to Run for Attorney General
Second-term Mississippi Treasurer Lynn Fitch says she intends to run for state attorney general next year.
Tuesday, May 15
Politics
Court Orders End to Lawsuit Over 2015 Mississippi Election
A federal court is ending a dispute over a 2015 Mississippi House race that originally went to a tiebreaker but was then overturned by the Legislature.
City & County
JPD Officer Placed on Leave After Teen's Brutality Claim
A police officer in Mississippi's capital city is on paid leave as officials investigate whether he unfairly attacked a teen.
National
CIA Nominee Toughens Interrogation Stance, Picks Up Support
President Donald Trump's CIA nominee toughened her public stance against harsh interrogation on Tuesday and picked up Democratic support, making it increasingly likely she will be confirmed as the agency's …
Biz Roundup
Food Network Honors Pig & Pint, Mississippi Arts + Entertainment Experience and Facebook Community Boost
This month, the Food Network selected the fried bologna sandwich at The Pig & Pint as the best breakfast sandwich in Mississippi as part of a feature showcasing the dish …
Cover
Rachel Phuong Le: Food’s Biggest Fan
Rachel Phuong Le is preparing to launch her own restaurant, Poké Stop, in Jackson as part of the incoming Cultivation Food Hall, set to open in the District at Eastover …
City & County
Baltimore Lawyer Names JPD Officer Who May Have Shot Crystalline Barnes
A lawyer for the family of 21-year-old Crystalline Barnes, who died in January when two Jackson Police Officers shot into her car following a traffic stop, stood alongside Barnes' young …
National
Seven Governors Sign Letter Backing Trump for Nobel Peace Prize
Mississippi Gov. Phil Bryant joined South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster and five other Republican governors in signing a letter backing President Donald Trump's nomination for the Nobel Peace Prize, citing …
Monday, May 14
Person of the Day
Lucy Nunn
The University of Southern Mississippi's women's golf program has a new leader at its helm.
Education
Statewide School Testing Task Force Named, Will Meet Next Month
Mississippi public high-school students will have a place on the statewide testing task force, which will begin meeting in June.
National
Supreme Court Makes Sports Betting a Possibility Nationwide
The Supreme Court on Monday gave its go-ahead for states to allow gambling on sports across the nation, striking down a federal law that barred betting on football, basketball, baseball …
Politics
Analysis: Candidates Vie for Attention in 3rd District Race
Voters in central Mississippi's 3rd District are choosing a new member of Congress for the first time in a decade. Candidates have been traveling for weeks to speak at forums …
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, May 11
Business
Rainbow Co-op Filing Chapter 11 Reorganization
The Rainbow Coop Board of Directors voted to seek Chapter 11 reorganization protection at its March meeting.
City & County
City Council Roundup: Money, Concerts and MBI
At the most recent city council meeting on May 8, the members gathered at City Hall to vote on a variety of issues from shifting budgets, to an ongoing concert …
Education
Denim Day at JSU, USM 2018 Commencements and Tougaloo Two Rivers Gala
Jackson State University's Division of Student Affairs and the Latasha Norman Center for Counseling organized Denim Day on April 25 inside the Student Center to raise awareness about the nationwide …
Person of the Day
Julius Paige
Midtown comic-book and record store Offbeat is hosting an art show featuring Julius Paige, an eighth-grade student in the special-education program at Siwell Middle School in Jackson, for the month …
Thursday, May 10
Politics
'In God We Trust' Will Be on New Mississippi License Plate
Mississippi's new standard license plate will display the state seal that includes the phrase, "In God We Trust."
City & County
UPDATED: MBI Investigates Third Deadly Officer-Involved Shooting in Jackson in 2018
The latest deadly officer-involved shooting in Jackson resulted from a traffic stop. A Jackson Police Department officer pulled over Elliot Reed, 30, and Chauncy Reed, 26, apparently brothers, in a …
City & County
Reshaping JPS Needs Transparency, Inclusivity, Accountability, Locals Say
The hall in the Pearl Street AME Church buzzed with chatter as community leaders, students, Jackson Public Schools staff and Better Together commissioners worked to define "community engagement" as the …
Person of the Day
Mia Davidson
Mississippi State University catcher Mia Davidson became the third Bulldog in program history to receive the title of SEC Freshman of the Year on Tuesday, May 8. She is the …
Politics
DeNiro, Baldwin Raise Money for Dem in Mississippi US Senate Race
Actors Robert DeNiro and Alec Baldwin are giving some fundraising help to a Democrat hoping to unseat Republican Sen. Roger Wicker of Mississippi.
Immigration
Texas Suit Could Speed DACA's Path to Supreme Court
A lawsuit filed last week in Texas seeks to shut down the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program and may create a legal clash that could speed the issue's path …
National
Lawmakers Release Thousands of Russian Facebook Ads
Democrats on the House intelligence committee have released more than 3,500 Facebook ads that were created or promoted by a Russian internet agency, providing the fullest picture yet of Russia's …
Wednesday, May 9
Immigration
GOP Immigration Moderates Say They'll Force House Votes
Republicans with moderate views on immigration defied party leaders and took steps Wednesday toward forcing election-year House votes on the issue, and one top maverick said they had enough support …
National
Porn Star's Lawyer Says Russian Paid Trump Attorney Cohen
Stormy Daniels' lawyer says he has information showing that President Donald Trump's longtime personal attorney received $500,000 from a company associated with a Russian billionaire within months of paying hush …
Development
EDITORIAL: Citizens, Be Informed and Vigilant About ‘One Lake’ Project
If you haven't paid attention to the proposed flood-control/development project called "One Lake" along the Pearl River, now is the time to help vet the ambitious plan.
Civil Rights
OPINION: Immigration and the First Amendment
My late friend Marty Fishgold, a longtime labor writer in New York City, liked to say that "good journalism is a subversive activity" because it tells truth to power.
Food
Mother’s Day 2K18
The Jackson Free Press has you covered on all the best places to treat your mom this Mother's Day.
City & County
EDITOR'S NOTE: Celebrating, Not Submitting to Mississippi Food
Mississippi has so much great, healthy food already, and I'd love for the rest of the world to realize that we're not just cupcakes, sugar water, grits and danger.
Jacksonian
Michaela Fisk
Jackson artist Michaela Fisk, 23, cannot remember a time when she was not creating.
Development
Coalition Forms Against ‘One Lake’ Proposal
Several wildlife and environmental groups came together to form a coalition against the proposed "One Lake" flood-control/development project on the Pearl River a few weeks before the report detailing the …
Business
How the Wage Gap Affects Single Moms
Amanda Furdge knows a thing or two about being a mom who fights for her kids. Furdge raises two boys on her own, as a single mother without child support.
Business
‘Stranded’ Siemens Customers Will Pay Two Bills
Two weeks ago, the Jackson City Council voted to accept Public Works Director Bob Miller's proposal to rework the Siemens Inc. contract in order to start getting accurate water bills …
City & County
Officer ID Task Force Wrestles with Mission
Sixteen of Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba's 21 appointees to the officer-identification task force gathered at The Cedars in Fondren Monday night to decide if and how the Jackson Police Department …
Tuesday, May 8
Politics
Tupelo Mayor Leaves Special US Senate Race in Mississippi
A Democratic mayor is dropping out of a special U.S. Senate race in Mississippi, leaving four candidates in the contest to serve the final two years of a term.
National
Trump Announces US Will Exit Nuclear Accord with Iran
President Donald Trump announced Tuesday the U.S. will pull out of the landmark nuclear accord with Iran, declaring he's making the world safer but dealing a profound blow to allies …
Biz Roundup
Go Cups at The District, Get Out More Tour at Buffalo Peak and Nissan HBCU Donation
Visitors to The District at Eastover can now take alcoholic beverages, one per person, out of restaurants in plastic cups that have restaurant insignias and drink them on the District …
Health Care
U.S. Senate Candidate Baria: Legalize Medical Marijuana Nationwide
Mississippi Rep. David Baria, D-Bay St. Louis, wants medical marijuana legalized nationwide. The state minority whip is one of six candidates running to be the Democratic nominee for U.S. Sen. …
Person of the Day
Raylin Dixon
Raylin Dixon and her team won the 4x200 relay at the Jackson Public Schools Middle School Track and Field Championship, and she sprinted to second place in the 200-meter, though …
Monday, May 7
Politics
Vicksburg Mayor Flaggs Rules Out Run for Statewide Office
George Flaggs of Vicksburg said in March that his switch from Democrat to independent was a possible step toward running for lieutenant governor in 2019. However, Flaggs said Monday that …
National
Oliver North Set to Become the Next NRA President
Retired Marine Lt. Col. Oliver North, a popular speaker before the National Rifle Association, is poised to become the group's next president.
City & County
City Wants Your Input on Convention Center Development Tonight, 6 p.m.
The City of Jackson's Department of Planning Development wants community input about what to do with the empty lot across from the Jackson Convention Complex downtown.
Politics
2019 State Races Shaping Up; Hood Has Edge Over Reeves for Governor
Lt. Gov. Tate Reeves and Attorney General Jim Hood are the obvious candidates expected to face off in the 2019 gubernatorial election if both make it past the party primaries, …
Politics
Petal Mayor Marx Says He's Running for Mississippi Governor
A Republican mayor from south Mississippi said Thursday that he is running for governor next year, even though he expects to be widely outspent by other candidates.
Person of the Day
State Rep. Hughes Running for Lieutenant Governor in 2019
First-term Democratic state Rep. Jay Hughes of Oxford announced last week that he is running for Mississippi lieutenant governor in 2019, saying the state needs to improve public education, highways …
Development
Analysis: Angry Officials Squabble Over Troubled Bridges
Mississippi has a problem: deteriorating local bridges. People could work together to seek a solution. All too often, though, it seems they'd rather fight.
Civil Rights
Tougaloo Grants Honorary Degree to Alumnus Who Leads NAACP
Tougaloo College is granting honorary degrees to the national president of NAACP, a civil rights activist and an astrophysicist.
Friday, May 4
Politics
Monday is a Voter Registration Deadline in Mississippi
Mississippi residents who want to vote in the June 5 federal primaries are facing a deadline to put their names on the voter rolls.
City & County
JPS to Change School Day Schedule for Middle, High Schools
School-board member Robbie Luckett said he intends to look at the district's makeup day policy because it needs to change.
Education
USM Business 101 Workshops, 2018 National College Dance Festival and UMMC/Blue Cross Contract
The University of Mississippi Medical Center announced on Monday, April 30, that it has entered negotiations with Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Mississippi to update its contract with the …
Person of the Day
Roger Wicker Confirms He Lost Money in Fraud Scheme
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker said Thursday that he is among the victims of a Mississippi-based fraud that officials say involved more than $100 million.
Thursday, May 3
Business
Entergy Funding 2 Museums Admission for 95 People Every Day in May
Entergy Mississippi Inc. is celebrating its 95th anniversary with a company donation of $25,000 to the pair of museums that will make admission free for the first 95 attendees every …
National
Trump Acknowledges He Repaid Lawyer for 'Stormy' Hush Money
President Donald Trump acknowledged Thursday he repaid his personal lawyer for hush money given to porn actress Stormy Daniels after claiming previously he didn't know about the payments.
Immigration
GOP Senators Praise Tax Cuts, Say Immigration Deal Unlikely This Year
Republican U.S. senators are concerned about the makeup of their chamber, which currently gives their party a slight edge in Congress by a one-vote margin. The stakes on Mississippi's Senate …
National
The True Origin of Cinco de Mayo
It is amazing the misinformation and ignorance that abounds about Latinos. A sad but good example is that of the perception that Cinco de Mayo is "Mexican Independence Day." It …
Person of the Day
Marcus Davenport
The New Orleans Saints moved from the 27th pick to the 14th pick so it could draft University of Texas-San Antonio defensive end Marcus Davenport.
Wednesday, May 2
Food
Cultivating New Food
This summer, Jackson will have another addition to its food scene: the Cultivation Food Hall at The District at Eastover.
Immigration
AG Sessions Appoints 35 New Assistant AGs for Immigration Cases on Mexican Border
Attorney General Jeff Sessions today announced the dedication of additional prosecutors to handle the prosecutions of improper entry, illegal reentry, and alien smuggling cases, and additional immigration judges to handle …
Business
EDITORIAL: City Council, Stop Posturing and Start Preparing
Ward 3 Councilman Kenneth Stokes, dare we say, stoked the fire at last week's Jackson City Council meeting during the heated conversation on moving the Jackson Zoo.
Business
OPINION: Making Daddy Proud
My middle name, Folayan, means "to walk with dignity." But each minute of the day I spent working in a system I didn't believe in, lending my power there, my …
Music
Mr. Fluid: Fighting Conformity
While he would rather be on a stage or in the studio, Mississippi rapper and producer Mr. Fluid's past work experiences are part of the inspiration behind his third album, …
Civil Rights
Private Prison on Trial: Inmates at ‘Bleak’ Facility Tell Harrowing Stories
Merlin Hill was one of 19 inmates who testified during the five-week class-action trial against the Mississippi Department of Corrections for what they describe as appalling conditions at the privately …
City & County
EDITOR'S NOTE: Love, Good Deeds and the Jackson Zoo
One can't really have it both ways—everything can't be about race when you want it to be, but not when it makes you uncomfortable.
Jacksonian
Jordan Guerriero
When Jordan Guerriero is not working at Professional Eyecare Associates in Madison, she writes for her blog, "Lift Cats Not Weights."
Business
City Employees Demand Raises for All, Not Just Clerks
A 911 dispatcher, a union representative and a records clerk for the Jackson Police Department walked into City Hall last week ready to give the council a piece of their …
City & County
More Charters Ahead for Jackson?
By August, four of Mississippi's five charter schools will be up and running in the state's capital city.
City & County
Jackson Zoo: Pulled from Two Directions
Jackson City Council President Charles Tillman of Ward 5 asked the members to use diplomacy during a conversation about the Jackson Zoo at last week's meeting. Not everyone took that …
Tuesday, May 1
Crime
Jackson Man Charged in Multimillion Dollar Fraud Ponzi Scheme
Arthur Lamar Adams, 58, of Jackson, has been charged by Criminal Information for his role in a large multi-million dollar Ponzi scheme that adversely affected hundreds of victims across multiple …
Health Care
Addiction Treatment Center Moves to Baptist Medical Center in Jackson
Pathway Healthcare, a drug and alcohol addiction treatment center previously located on County Line Road, has moved its Jackson office to the Baptist Medical Center campus.
Biz Roundup
New Exhibits at the Art Museum, Cultivation Food Hall and Si Senhor
This week, the Mississippi Museum of Art this week announced nine new contemporary-art acquisitions that it is adding to its collection as part of its Center for Art & Public …
Person of the Day
Rep. Mark Baker
A Republican state lawmaker says he is running for Mississippi attorney general next year. Rep. Mark Baker of Brandon has served in the state House of Representatives since 2004.
National
Comey Tells AP That Trump's Attacks on FBI Make US Less Safe
Fired FBI Director James Comey says he believes President Donald Trump's political attacks on the FBI are making the country less safe.
