Sunday, November 30
Sports
College Football: Croom Era Over At Mississippi State
Mississippi State football coach Sylvester Croom "resigned" on Saturday.
Saturday, November 29
LoungeList Photos: Vanilla Ice @ Fire
That's right -- 'Ice, Ice Baby' made a swing through Jackson and cooled down the crowd at Fire on Friday. Photos by LoungeList photog Kip Caven. Enjoy:
Time to Stop the 'Black Friday' Lunacy
The trampling death of a Wal-Mart temporary worker yesterday morning in a stampede to shop in a big-box retrailer whose products are mostly made outside the United States sent a ...
Talk
State Not Good for Business?
Mississippi's competitive environment is the worst in the U.S. So says the "Eighth Annual State Competitiveness Report," from the independent, non-partisan Beacon Hill Institute, an economic research organization at Boston's ...
College Football: Rebs Scramble Dogs
What was the turning point in Ole Miss' victory over Mississippi State on Friday? When the teams ran on the field.
Friday, November 28
College Football: Egg Bowl Is Here
No matter what the weather, dark clouds of animosity will hover over Oxford on Friday. It's time for the Egg Bowl.
Thursday, November 27
Time for Gratefulness, and Shopping Local
View Flip FLY!
As Americans come together to express gratefulness today for the blessings we enjoy, the JFP wishes you a safe and loving Thanksgiving. We also urge you to support the local ...
Wednesday, November 26
Mumbai Terrorist Attacks Continue
As Americans prepare for a day of gratefulness, the horrors in Mumbai, India, continue. Follow the story on CNN here and pray for a quick resolution before more people die.
The Best In Sports In 7 Days
NFL football, Tennessee at Detroit (11:30 a.m., Ch. 12) and Seattle at Dallas (3:15 p.m., Ch. 40): If you're a real American, you will celebrate Thanksgiving by watching football all ...
Fly
Season For All
The span of time between Thanksgiving and the New Year used to be my favorite because not only did I get to eat great food and run around with my ...
Holiday Food Recipes
This is the easiest, tastiest ham I've ever madejuicy and flavorful. And if you use a crockpot, it is almost no work!
WRAP IT UP: A Holiday Guide to Eco-Friendly Gift-Giving
It's great fun to watch small children excitedly tear through the paper on the way to their gifts, but for adults and everyday gift-giving, you can do away with wrapping ...
Alternatives to the 'Holiday' Letter
What is it about December that tempts even the most modest people to break out the Kinkos stationary and pen excessively boastful form letters? You know the ones I'm talking ...
Holiday Traditions Unwrapped
The Nordic custom of kissing under mistletoe began centuries ago with a plant of peace under which you hugged an enemy. It evolved into kissing, and made its way into ...
Fingerless Gloves
It's almost time for the holidays, which means it's going to get a little bit colder outside. A super cute way to battle the cold without breaking the bank is ...
Confessions of an ex-Martha Wannabe
I once was a Martha Stewart wannabe. Sparkling holiday decorations on slick magazine pages danced in my head like sugar plums. I would envision trimming every corner of my house ...
Holiday Fashion Meets Fun
The Christmas season is already stressful enough without having to worry about looking your best for all those holiday parties. This season, it doesn't have to be that way. There ...
Tasty Holiday
With the holidays around the corner, it's time to make your list and check it twice. Instead of store-bought fruitcake, indulge your creative urge this season. Check out these tasty ...
NAUGHTY or NICE: The Bipolar Holiday Playlist
Typically, people think of the holidays as a shiny, happy time, but the season isn't so nice for everyone. Whether you're naughty, nice or a little of both, these playlists ...
Holiday Drinks
Rocking around the Christmas tree is twice as fun when you have a holiday drink in hand. Whether you are serving these up at a swanky holiday party or sipping ...
Get Your Holiday Jollies
Bellies are full, but the day is not over. Once everyone has helped with his or her assigned clean-up task, what is there to do but fall into a stupor ...
Let Us Begin Again
Not long ago, an evangelical minister and his teenage son visited me at the JFP offices. We sat in the classroom, under the watchful gaze of Emmett Till from a ...
Talk
Oakley Training School: A 'Bad Model'
Mississippi is wasting time and money in its attempt to bring the decrepit Oakley Juvenile Training School up to humane, livable standards. Calling large-scale, centralized juvenile facilities ineffective, Bear Atwood, ...
Editorial
Stop Creating More Shortfalls
If State Auditor Stacey Pickering gets his way, the state could end up paying an extra $3 million for a bill that has already been paid.
[Sue Doh Nem] Inauguration at the Disco
Momma Roscoe: "I thought I'd never see this day. And you know what I mean. This old lady hasn't been this excited since John F. Kennedy was elected president in ...
[Kamikaze] One-Way Metro Street
I often hear the term "metro Jackson" bandied about, more so in recent years. We have a "Metro"center Mall. We even had a "Metro" Jackson Chamber of Commerce (now called ...
[Wilson] My Choice to Head the RNC
In 2005, I was involved in an inner-party election that was every bit as vitriolic as the most recent presidential election, but that time it was Republicans fighting Republicans. Ever ...
Jacksonian
Victoria Scantlebury
"It's interesting when people just look at me and think I'm black," says Victoria Scantlebury. "And then when I open my mouth, they're like, 'Oh, wow.'"
Herman's Picks
[Herman's Picks] Vol. 7, No. 11
As we hit the stands, it's Turkey Day eve, Wednesday, Nov. 26. You can sleep late in the morrow, so why not do something interesting with your teenager tonight?
11/26 Dow Continues Up Going into Holiday
The Dow has been up for four straight days, apparently responding to action taken by the Barack Obama transition team as it names its cabinet and bevy of advisors, along ...
Cover
A Gift To Dems
No doubt, Democrats exit 2008 with a clear victory in federal government. Democratic President-elect Barack Obama claimed the White House with a 53-percent victory.
This-For-That
Making a difference this holiday season or beyond is easy, whether you have one minute or one dollar to spare. Here are some ideas from the JFP's GOOD issue/blog:
College Football: Conerly and Playoffs
Conerly Trophy finalists are named and Delta State playoff game to be televised.
Tuesday, November 25
Langston Deal Headed to Hinds County
U.S. District Court Judge William Pauley is sending the state's $14 million dispute with disbarred attorney Joey Langston to Hinds County. Pauley decided this month to uphold a decision to ...
Entergy Drops Rates in Mississippi
After a year of investigation and outcry, Entergy is asking the Mississippi Public Service Commission to approve another 14 percent drop in its fuel adjustment starting Jan. 1. This new ...
City Postpones Bus Takeover Plan
The city of Jackson has postponed plans to take over the operations of its citywide bus service. The city council had been faced with the prospect of the city adopting ...
So, Don't Cook!
With the Thanksgiving holidays right around the bend, everyone will be expecting to fill their stomachs with those wonderful holiday treats.
Managing Holiday Stress
Holidays aren't always an unbroken time line of happiness and joy. They can be stressful, especially for women. The Brookhaven Retreat a residential trauma and addiction center in the Great ...
LoungeList Photos: Capital City Classic
LoungeList photographer Kip Caven filed a ton of photos from the Capital City Classic. Enjoy!
Do-Gooders on Steroids!
That would be you and me. The JFP is ramping up efforts to form a "Do-Gooder Corps" in Jacksonbasically people who want to help others in whatever way you can, ...
GOOD Alternative Gifts
For gift-giving on a wider scale, these alternative gift ideas are great for the global economy and the environment. Plus, you will be creating a wonderful new tradition without having ...
The Salvation Army Needs Help, Now and Later
The Salvation Army is serving more than 1,200 Thanksgiving dinners in Jackson this week, and needs your help. Here's how to donate and volunteer.
Giving Thanks For The Cheap And Eco-Friendly
Gas prices may finally be going down, but I still do a lot of cringing in line at the grocery store every Saturday morning. It is hard enough to stick ...
Christmas Trees (From Best to Worst)
Christmas may be the time to find the best deals on gifts and goodies, but it is not the time to skimp on eco-values. That means finding the best tree ...
Monday, November 24
NFL: Saints Pummel Packers
Doctor S doubts if anybody saw this coming: New Orleans Saints 51, Green Bay Packers 29.
LoungeList Photos: Nicole Marquez Event
Photos from the "Can't Stop This Dancer" event to raise money for Nicole Marquez's medical bills. Photos by Kip Caven:
Court Denies Death-Row Appeals
[Verbatim from attorney general] Jackson, MS-The United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit has ruled on an appeal by four Mississippi death row inmates who filed suit claiming ...
U.S. Chamber Applauds Obama's Economic Team
U.S. Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Thomas J. Donohue issued the following statement on the announcement of President-elect Barack Obama's economic team: "President-elect Obama has chosen a strong, experienced ...
What's True, What's Not
The five "myths" include:
Even with all of the Obama administration's upcoming emphasis on the economy, the nation's health care is sure to get a lot of attention in the coming years. With nearly ...
Southern Chili Twist Pumpkin Pie & Bourbon Cream
I don't know about y'all, but the highlight of my Thanksgiving is most definitely the pumpkin pie. You can take all that turkey and its fixins! All I want is ...
Let's Put an End to "The Most Segregated Hour"
Some say that the most segregated hour in America is on Sunday at 11 a.m. Because of a history of racial division, most of today's churches are predominately white, predominately ...
NFL Preview/Recap, Week 12
There are two burning questions in New Orleans. 1) Can the Saints beat the Packers? 2) Who dumped on the owner?
Saturday, November 22
College Football: Almost Everyone Wins
Seven Mississippi colleges played football on Saturday and five won.
Please Donate Children's Coats
The JFP's good friend, Natalie, sent the following e-mail; please help her and the children out, and spread the word far and wide:
LoungeList Photos: Firefighter's Benefit
New photos of the Jackson Firefighters Benefit for Richard Taylor-Smith event. Photos by Kip Caven:
Friday, November 21
Stocks Rally After New Treasury Pick Announced
Good news on Wall Street for a change, per Bloomberg:
Miss. Dems Host "Sky Party" to Inauguration
Does the Mississippi Democratic Party know how to have (slightly ridiculous) fun? All signs point to yes:
Thomas Daschle to head HHS
The Washington Post announced today that former Sen. Tom Daschle will head the Department of Health and Human Services in the new Obama cabinet.
Recio Subpoenas City Attorney
Cynthia Stewart, attorney for Michael Recio, has subpoenaed Jackson City Attorney Sarah O'Reilly-Evans in the civil rights trial of Recio and mayor Frank Melton.
Obama's AG and the Drug War
The folks at Reason Magazine have pointed out that Obama's pick for Attorney General has held much harsher views on drug sentencing than the president-elect.
Good
Groups Push For New Smoking Ban in Legislature
Rep. John Mayo, D-Clarksdale, is pushing for statewide legislation in the next session of the Legislature that will prevent smoking in most enclosed public places, including restaurants and bars. The ...
Thursday, November 20
LoungeList Photos: Fondren Unwrapped
LoungeList photog Kip Caven got some great shots during Fondren Unwrapped, the annual holiday festival on Fondren shops, restaurants and galleries, including the newly opened Duling School development:
NAMIWalks 2008 Pictures
Yes, this was back on the 8th, but I was bitten by the procrastination bug. Anyone got a flyswatter?
What ‘08 Election Meant for Immigration Reform
[verbatim]In 2008 America's Voice (AV), a new communications campaign organization, was launched to harness the power of America's voices and American values to win common sense immigration reform. Working with ...
Officer Sues Melton, City for Retaliation
Jackson Police Officer Robert Watts filed a notice of intent to sue (PDF) the city Monday. Watts claims Jackson Mayor Frank Melton arranged to have him transferred to a different ...
Body Soul Page Premieres
If you're interested in health-related issues or follow the Body&Soul column in the JFP, be sure to check out the new Body Soul page. I'll be posting new information concerning ...
Another Reason to Come to Fondren Unwrapped
Here's an e-mail I received today from the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society:
Like you need one to come out to one of the the holiday season's premier shopping events, right? Well, you could buy a gift book about Mississippi and do a ...
Film Producer Doing Interactive Lectures at St. Andrews
Film composer/producer/graphic designer Nathan Johnson will do interactive lectures at the St. Andrews Center for the Performing Arts in December.
Mississippi Museum of Art Receives Major Gift
The Mississippi Museum of Art has received a gift of 50 works of contemporary art from New York collectors Dorothy and Herbert Vogel.
Indeck Magnolia BioFuel Center Breaks Ground
Indeck Energy Services, Inc. of Buffalo Grove, Ill., and Homan Industries of Fulton, Miss., ("The Partners"), invite you to attend the ground breaking ceremony for Indeck Magnolia BioFuel Center wood ...
Wednesday, November 19
[Young] Save Our Men
It is Friday morning. The rain is slowing from an overnight storm. The streets are wet, and the air is humid and cold. The gray skies and wet chill are ...
I Heart This: Obama Gives Biden Birthday Cupcakes
Reminds me of our office, and I love our office. ;-) CNN Political Ticker:
Obama Lead Swells Since Election Night
He's now winning by 7 percent rather than the 5 percent on Election night:
Obama: 67,065,042 (52.7%, 365 EVs)McCain: 58,420,587 (45.9%, 162 EVs)
The Best In Sports In 7 Days
College football, Miami at Georgia Tech (6:30 p.m., ESPN): Another Thursday, another crucial ACC game for the Hurricanes.
Think Global, Buy Local
Welcome to the "Good" issue. Our goal with this intern-created issue is to present you with ways that you can give back, give thanks and consider some opportunities to do ...
Seale Granted Hearing
In a rare move Nov. 14, the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit granted federal prosecutors an en banc rehearing on the court's Sept. 9 decision ...
It's Official; We Run it Now
Mayor Frank Melton's administration confirmed to council members Monday that the city will soon be in the business of running a bus route, whether or not council members like it.
Former Pathologist Sues Innocence Project
Former Mississippi medical examiner Steven Hayne is suing the Innocence Project for defamation. In a suit filed Oct. 28 with the Rankin County Circuit Court, Hayne claimed that the New ...
Do the Good Thing
The Jackson Free Press was pleased, a little anyway, to see that Gov. Haley Barbour finally caved this week and proposed a 24-cent-per-pack tobacco tax hike. Maybe he is finally ...
[Sue Doh Nem] Back To Myself
Miss Doodle Mae: "In this recessive economy, the financially challenged shop overwhelmingly at Jojo's Discount Dollar Store. Right now, there's no shame in the poor and middle class' game.'
From Outrage to Sadness
The Nov. 8 front page of the online edition of The Clarion-Ledger featured, unsurprisingly, a picture of President-Elect Barack Obama. Plastered above the picture was a headline that, maybe surprisingly, ...
Cover
Do GOOD Unto Others
No matter what your religious or spiritual philosophy, we can all agree that increasing the goodness of the world around us is a priority.
Melton Claims No ‘Evil Motive'
In a new motion filed in federal court (PDF) late today, Mayor Frank Melton claims that prosecutors must show that he had "evil motive" when he allegedly directed and helped ...
Technology Report
9. GasolineEmissions: Greenhouse gases/pollutionEnergy: Gasoline fuelMile Range: 350+Time to Refuel/Recharge: MinutesCents per mile: 12 cents+
IN CONCERT: Dorothy Moore
Gospel Brunch Fundraiser
Grammy-nominated Jacksonian Dorothy Moore does gospel right Sunday at Schimmel's.
Consumer Guide to Eco-Friendly Cars
• How it works: Energy is captured whenever the car brakes, stored in the batteries and used whenever possible instead of fuel.
Shop Local
Since this nation gained its newfound health-conscious identity you may find yourself lost in a world of trans fats, carbohydrates and preservatives. Eating well and fresh should not be a ...
Holiday Waste
From Thanksgiving to New Year's, household waste increases 25 percent. Including holiday wrapping, that's a million tons a week added to our landfillsor 40,000 small humpback whales. Here's how it ...
Christmas Lights 101
Traditional Christmas Lights• Upfront cost of 100-count lights: $5-$10• One light: 0.4 watts• 4.8 watts: 10 lights• 10 strands on for eight hours a day for one month for $.0853 ...
Jacksonian
Kit Davis Barksdale
Relaxed in her office chair at the Mustard Seed, a smiling Kit Barksdale points to a unique painting created by a Mustard Seed artist, also known as a "Seedster."
[Pass The Mic] Dead Guy Rock
I like to think I have an eclectic taste in music. I listen to anything from '60s rock to modern "booty music," from bossa nova to electronica, and from Johnny ...
Autumn's Mixed Bag
Of Montreal - "Skeletal Lamping" 2 of 5 stars Referring to Athens-based musicians Of Montreal as a pop band is a bit misleading. Though often catchy and cheery, the band's ...
Blue Christmas Without You
My extended family is tiny compared to most, and we habitually don't play well together. We live hundreds of miles from one another, and are infrequently inclined to get on ...
Why the South Opposes the Auto Bailout
This seems obvious, but it is worth considering. This seems obvious, but it is worth considering, per Salon:
LoungeList Photos: RAIN, A Beatles Tribute
LoungeList photog Kip Caven got out to see RAIN last night and turned in this visual report. Enjoy!
Melton Back In Hospital
[Verbatim from city] Mayor Frank E. Melton was admitted to the hospital after a routine checkup revealed that minor surgery was needed to correct a complication. The Mayor is expected ...
Tuesday, November 18
Barbour Caves on Tobacco Tax
Gov. Haley Barbour this week announced that he would support a 24-cent-per-pack hike in tobacco taxes. Some say it's not enough.
Dick Cheney, Former AG Gonzales Indicted in Texas
The Associated Press in Texas is reporting:
IN THE STREET: Fondren Unwrapped
If you think you're going to roll into a premium parking spot in front of Fondren Corner this Thursday evening, you'd better get there early. Fondren Unwrapped is Fondren After ...
Wicker to Oppose $25 Billion Auto Bailout
[Verbatim] WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., today made the following statement regarding the $25 billion bailout package for U.S. automakers scheduled for Senate consideration this week: "I opposed ...
Monday, November 17
Bloomberg: Bush Backing Down on Spending Rest of Bailout
Boomberg News is reporting that a beleaguered President Bush is backing down on spending the rest of the bailout package. The Bush administration is under fire for spending half of ...
Gay Marriage a Civil Right, Protesters Say
Advocates for the state's gay and lesbian community participated in a nationwide protest against Proposition 8 over the weekend. About 70 people met on High Street, between the state Capitol ...
Wicker Applauds Veterans Travel Reimbursement Increase
[Verbatim] WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., today applauded the decision by the Secretary of Veterans' Affairs to increase the reimbursement rate for disabled veterans traveling to VA facilities ...
Youth Project: Oakley Making Little Progress
The Mississippi Youth Justice Project released these findings today, which bolster its case that Mississippi's youth training schools should be closed. Verbatim:
Dan Rather Fights Back, and How
Hmmm, remember Rather-Gate? There may be another chapter on the way, thanks to the vigilance of Mr. Rather himself. The New York Times reports:
City Votes to Take Over Bus System
As the Jackson Free Press reported last week, the Jackson City Council has voted to take over the city's beleaguered bus system. Watch for a more detailed story.
Watch Live Stream of Barbour Budget Presser Tuesday
[Verbatim]Jackson, Mississippi) – Mississippi Governor Haley Barbour will hold a press conference on Tuesday, November 18, to discuss his Executive Budget Recommendation for Fiscal Year 2010. The press conference will ...
Saints Show Signs Of Life
The New Orleans Saints are .500 again, thanks to a victory over the Kansas City Chiefs, one of the NFL's worst teams.
Say What, Donovan?
More on the Eagles-Bengals exercise in futility:
It's official: Donovan McNabb is an idiot.
LoungeList Photos: King Edward and Farish Street Tours
JFP/LoungeList photographer Kip Caven took the Farish Street tour last Friday and filed this album of photos:
How Mississippi Voted
Pollsters predicated all along that Mississippi would not break its 32-year Republican voting streak on Election Day, but hours after the polls closed, pundits would not (or could not) accurately ...
Saturday, November 15
Politics
Obama: The YouTube President
Today's Saturday radio broadcast by Barack Obama follows in the tradition of weekend radio broadcasts by the president of the United States and, often, by the opposition party. But, according ...
Friday, November 14
Barbour Named Vice-Chair of GOP Governors
AP (hat-tip to WLOX) is reporting that the GOP governor's group has elected South Carolina governor Mark Sanford as chair and Mississippi Governor Haley Barbour as vice-chair of the Republican ...
A Call for Sisterhood
A Call for Sisterhood
Just like the stubborn dedication of Harriette Tubman; the proud insistence of Rosa Parks; the support and strong family values of Betty Shabazz, Corretta Scott King and Merlie Evers; the ...
LoungeList Photos: YUPS Blue Tie Ball
Photos from last night at the University Club. (Photos by Kip Kaven):
Creative Autumn Activities [For Adults!]: Mod Coloring Books
I'm not quite sure what's come over me the last few weeks, but I just can't seem to get enough coloring in. Yep, I said coloring. As in: sheet after ...
Thursday, November 13
12/13 Dow Recovers Nearly Five Percent
Thursday trading saw the Dow careen back up at the close, presumably on bargain hunting and the sense that a Dow of 8,000 (which it reached briefly) is a floor ...
Therapeutic Yoga Workshop
Friday Evening: Therapeutic Insights into the Bandhas
Butterfly Yoga in Fondren is hosting yoga teacher, author and columnist Doug Keller, E-RYT 500, for a weekend Yoga Therapy Workshop, Dec. 5 through 7.
"Run"dezvous and Bike Too Duathlon
<i>(verbatim release)</i>
It's not too late to sign up for the inaugural "Run"dezvous and Bike Too Duathlon which will take place Saturday, November 15 at 7:30 a.m. on historic Jackson Street in ...
Share Your Health Care Vision
<i>(Verbatim from the Mississippi Health Advocacy Program</i>
In less than 3 months a new American President will be sworn in and tasked with addressing the nation's healthcare challenges. Voting in yesterday's election was not your only opportunity ...
Marathon Prizes Announced
The Second Annual Mississippi Blues Marathon announced today that they will be awarding a total of $30,000 in prize money, including $4,000 each to the top male and female runner, ...
Presidential Inaugural Parade Apps Due Nov. 18
[Verbatim from U.S. Army] WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Armed Forces Inaugural Committee has extended its deadline for the public to submit applications to participate in the Jan. 20, 2009, presidential ...
Langston Cooperating; Feds Seek His Release
An accidentally published motion reveals agents are working for an early release for convicted attorney Joey Langston, and that more investigations related to Langston are underway. U.S. attorneys filed a ...
MDOT Approves Fortification Street Project
A Mississippi Department of Transportation commission voted to approve a plan to narrow Fortification Street and install traffic-slowing features Wednesday. "Obviously we're extremely pleased that we received an affirmative vote ...
How's this for an inaugural ball?
Daily Kos contributor Kenyada wrote a creative diary entry about what Obama's inaugural ball could be like if those who went on before him could celebrate with him:
11/12 Markets Down Again on Jobless News
The number of people filing for unemployment benefits hit a staggering number last week -- 516,000, making it the highest week since shortly after the 9/11 terrorist attacks in 2001. ...
Wednesday, November 12
Lies, Damn Lies and Excuses
Nothing is more predictable in Jackson than watching for that David Hampton column in The Clarion-Ledger after any major event, endorsement or election. It's the one in which he tells ...
[Wilson] What We Conservatives Learned
November 12, 2008 For conservatives, and people who support limited government, this week feels wrong. Fifty-three percent of the American public has chosen a man whose campaign for "change" has ...
Winter Garden
While winter may mean the end of fresh summer fruit and seemingly endless hours of sunshine, it doesn't mean the end of your bright and beautiful garden. Here are some ...
The Best In Sports In 7 Days
College football, Virginia Tech at Miami (6:30 p.m., ESPN): Since you won't watch the MLS playoffs, this battle of ACC also-rans is your best alternative.
Jacksonian
André de Gruy
André de Gruy did not want to be a public defender when he came to Jackson for law school 20 years ago. But recently, as the top lawyer in the ...
Beyond the Blind Spots
Last Sunday after my yoga class, I stopped at the grocery store to pick up a few essentials like cat food and shampoo. The store wasn't crowded and I had ...
Speech, After Obama
Aaron Thomas, a black sophomore from Jackson, said that 10 minutes after Obama captured California on Election night, he had a reaction like many people across the country, screaming outside ...
Frustrated Voters Overhaul Court
Election Day brought an upset of Mississippi Supreme Court Chief Justice Jim Smith, a U.S. Chamber of Commerce favorite, but the outcome may not have loosened the corporate lobby's influence ...
Mr. Melton, Please Step Down
On the national level, we're watching an extraordinary processthe American government is making a peaceful transition of power between two very different presidents, administrations and political parties.
[Sue Doh Nem] Operation Retaliation
Sista Church Hat: "Welcome to a very important press conference brought to you by the Inspector 'Beat Down' Lipscomb Security Agency and the Ladies in Church Hats and Deacons in ...
Vol. 7, No. 9
<b><em>The Crappy Alternative</b></em>
The Crappy Alternative While eating the other day, I noticed your paper lying above the garbage can. And after reading it, I put it where it belongs: inside the garbage ...
Cover
GOP Panic: How to Save the ‘Party of Lincoln'
The Grand Old Party is living up to the "old," according to Nov. 4 exit polls. The poll revealed the vast brunt of Republican voters to be elderly, rural and ...
Feature
Uncovering the 'Real Deal' Blues
The blues in Mississippi refuses to die. Despite music scholars regularly predicting its demise, fans can find the distinctive music everywhere around the state, from small clubs to major festivals. ...
The Dawn of a New America
Let me start this post by explaining who and what I am. I am the oldest son of civil rights advocate James Meredith who integrated the University of Mississippi back ...
Herman's Picks
[Herman's Picks] Vol. 7, No. 9
This is a fantastic week for people looking to hear great music. This Thursday, Nov. 13, the Mississippi Academy of Ancient Music will host an 18th-century fortepiano concert by Dr. ...
Dancing with Race
Charles Evers is a Republican Barack Obama supporter. A radio talk show host and the manager of WMPR 90.1 FM, a local blues and gospel radio station, Evers has lived ...
Imperfect Storm
Hurricane Katrina made landfall in southern Louisiana and Mississippi Aug. 29, 2005. The subsequent flooding of New Orleans was a tragedy on a scale that is still unimaginable in modern ...
Volunteer to Be Fired, Please
Clarion-Ledger Publisher Larry Whitaker sent out this e-mail to employees last week:
Thank you for working diligently through these tough economic times, even as I know you are aware that we are in the process of making difficult payroll reduction decisions. Since ...
Melton Trial Delayed, 'Evil Intent' Issue Back
A federal judge has postponed the mayor and his bodyguard's trial for two months. What issues are on the table?
Barbour Announces 2009 Spending Cuts; Spares MAEP
[Verbatim statement] (JACKSON, Mississippi) – Governor Haley Barbour today ordered Fiscal Year 2009 spending cuts totaling $41.9 million, or two percent, for most state agencies due to a shortfall in ...
Music
Warren Zevon Reissued with Extra Disc In Stores Now
Rhino's Double-Disc Collectors Edition of the Grammy-Winning Singer-Songwriter's Major-Label Debut Includes a Bonus Disc with Previously Unreleased Versions of every album track.
Tuesday, November 11
City to Take Over Bus System
A surprised Jackson City Council learned Monday that the city of Jackson is planning to take over its public bus system. The Melton administration informed the council of the new ...
Craigslist Crackdown
Mississippi Attorney General Jim Hood has announced that the attorneys general in 42 other states have reached an agreement with Craigslist in which the online classified-ad Web site will crack ...
Is the South Politically Irrelevant?
Read this provocative piece in the Times about, well, us:
‘Evil Motive' Question Looms as Melton Trial Delayed
A federal judge agreed today to delay the civil rights trial of mayor Frank Melton and his former bodyguard, Michael Recio, until Jan. 5. Judge Daniel Jordan granted a last-minute ...
Monday, November 10
11/10 Dow Dips Under 8,900
While the dip wasn't as dramatic as in weeks past, the Dow did fall less than a point today lead by U.S. automotive stocks that are taking a hit as ...
Taking Turkey Day Green
Thanksgiving's my favorite holiday by far; loads of food and family, without any of those pesky gifts to concern yourself with. Better yet, if you're a guest, all you've got ...
LoungeList Photos: Charley's Fund Benefit
Charley's Fund benefit on Saturday raised money for fighting Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. To make a donation call 769-798-4417 or write [e-mail missing].
Sunday, November 9
A Funny Thing Happened To Me Downtown Last Friday….
...ABSOLUTELY NOTHING!!! Attended the Blocktober Halloween Party on Congress St. and had a blast. No one got shot, stabbed, robbed, raped, assaulted, or any of the like. Whats still frustrating ...
Is Mississippi Ready For A Black Governor?
So. America has elected its first African-American President. But while other parts of the country clearly were getting over the race hurdle. It appears the south particularly, Mississippi and Alabama, ...
Saturday, November 8
LoungeList Photos: Brews and ‘Tinis
Check out these photos from the Mistletoe Marketplace "Brews and 'Tinis" event last night at the Mississippi Trademart. (Photos by Kip Caven.)
Friday, November 7
Obama Releases List of Approved Jokes
Apparently feeling the pain of late night talk-show hosts, President-Elect Barack Obama took time out of his busy transition schedule to put together an approved list of jokes for the ...
Celebrating Black Students Called N-Word at Ole Miss
The Daily Mississippian at Ole Miss reported a disturbing response to the Barack Obama presidential victory on Tuesday night:
ON STAGE: Rain, A Tribute to the Beatles
Thalia Mara Hall
Formed from the same group that performed Broadway's "Beatlemania," Rain has been performing as the fab four since 1977.
IN GALLERIES: "The Philosophy of Beauty"
Millsaps Lewis Art Gallery
Memphis artist Tad Lauritzen's work is a joy to view.
ON SCREEN: "Opera Jawa"
Mississippi Museum of Art
Crossroads Film Society presents "Opera Jawa" and "Luxury Car" as part of the Global Film Festival,
Byram Middle School Honors Military Veterans
[Verbatim] There will be a Veterans' Day Program on November 11, 2008 at 9:00 a.m. at Byram Middle School. Veterans, currently serving military personnel and the public are all invited ...
[Wicker] Congress Continues Effort to Protect Border
In a positive development for our nation's ongoing effort to stop illegal immigration, the president recently signed into law legislation that provides needed funding for border security programs. The funds ...
Money Management Tips for the Newly Unemployed
Jackson, Miss.--- November 7, 2008 With the nation's unemployment remaining high, Consumer Credit Counseling Service (CCCS) of Jackson today reminds people who have lost their jobs to continue paying ...
Thursday, November 6
Interview
Driving Mr. Biden: The JFP Interview with the Vice President (Encore)
In 2006, the Jackson Free Press drove then-presidential hopeful Sen. Joe Biden around the capital city to get him off the beaten path and talk about issues facing everyday Mississippians. ...
FLOTUS Dress-Gate: Weigh In on Michelle Obama's Dress
Maybe people are bored after the election, but we have something new to talk about. And it's not just the puppy question. Fashionistas may love it (I at least like ...
11/6 Markets Down Two Days Running
After losing over 500 points yesterday in the wake of the American presidential election win by Senator Barack Obama, the Dow is down another 440 points in mid-day trading. CNN ...
Republican Party, Remake Thyself (You, Too, Barbour)
Politico's headline today, GOP In Dire Straits, says it all. Don't miss Haley Barbour's take at the end, telling Obama how to be, er, non-partisan:
Wednesday, November 5
FOX: Palin Didn't Know Africa a Continent
The country sure did dodge a mighty bullet yesterday. All the off-the-record-until-after-the-election is now coming out about Gov. Sarah Palin, including that she didn't know what countries are in NAFTA, ...
Wellness
How To Talk To Your Doctor
Have you ever walked out of a doctor's office feeling more confused than when you arrived? A recent study in the Annals of Emergency Medicine showed that most patients leaving ...
Wellness
Choosing The Right Workout
Forget size. It never mattered. Still doesn't. What really matters is personality. What's imperative is not mixing multiple fitness personalities.
It's Really Is About Turnout, Stupid!
The JFP has repeated the T-word incessantly since we launched in 2002. That is, conventional "wisdom" about basing political strategy on who has, and has not, voted in the past ...
Body+Soul
The Power of Living in the Now
Living in the now is a lot like hitting the sweet spot on a golf ball. It requires focus, connection with the specific and foreclosure of everything else, particularly yesterday's ...
Body+Soul
Living With Addiction
Sasha (whose real name is withheld) is an alcohol and drug addict with 12 years of sobriety under her belt. She started attending Alcoholics Anonymous meetings at age 15 with ...
Body+Soul
Got Silk?
It is Saturday morning. The trees are swaying, and the ground is damp from a pre-dawn shower. Sunlight filters through the cloudy but clearing skies. In a garden courtyard, Stanley ...
Body+Soul
Jared Fogle
Eight years ago, Indiana University student Jared Fogle became an instant celebrity when he appeared in a series of television commercials for Subway restaurants. After losing 245 pounds by eating ...
Books
Freaky and Bloody
Kaleidoscopes are usually made from simple, cheap and seemingly random ingredients: a cardboard tube or two, colored pebbles or painted rice grains and a few cut-rate mirrors. That's it, really. ...
The First Puppy?
Now that the 2008 presidential election is over, the burning political question is: What kind of puppy will the first family choose!?! What's your choice?
Art
IN CONCERT: Boyz II Men
MSU Riley Center, Meridian
Boyz II Men in concert, Opera Jawa on screen, "The Philosophy of Beauty" at Millsaps and "Rain: A Tribute to the Beatles" on stage.
Feature
Lightnin' Fast
I first saw the Juke Joint Duo in 2007 in Clarksdale at My Brother Sports Bar, a dim, smoky dive bar nestled on 3rd Street just around the corner from ...
Education
Youth Vote More Prominent in Future Elections?
Young voters believe that government has a role in American livesto fix problems and ensure economic equality. That's why the "redistribution" argument fell flat with them.
Music
Subtle September
Horse Feathers - "House with no Home" 3 of 5 stars Once known as the birthplace of grunge and alternative rock, the Pacific Northwest is slowly becoming a cornerstone for ...
The Best In Sports In 7 Days
College basketball, Jackson State's men's and women's teams open the season with a pair of exhibition games. The Lady Tigers play Team Evolution (5:30 p.m.) and the Tigers face Miles ...
Now We Begin Again
Like many Americans, the lead-up to the 2008 election was not the healthiest time period for me. It was an anxiety-filled time; at one point, I even woke up in ...
Talk
More Voters, More Problems
Voting was not a perfect affair in Mississippi this week, especially with almost 190,000 newly registered voters swarming to the polls this Election Day.
Frank Melton
Melton's Intent at Issue in Trial
When Jackson Mayor Frank Melton's trial for civil-rights violations begins Nov. 12, one of the key battlegrounds will be the mayor's intent. Prosecutors must prove that Melton intentionally destroyed the ...
Clarion-Ledger Layoffs Coming Dec. 3?
The Jackson Free Press has learned that the next round of Clarion-Ledger layoffs ordered by the Gannett home office in Virginia could come as early as Dec. 3. Bizarrely, even ...
[Mott] Nearing Nirvana
I've always been fascinated with how my brain works. Sometimes, it's downright confounding. Take dieting, for example. I know exactly what I should be eating (and not eating), but I ...
Talk
Holding Water
Jackson Mayor Frank Melton said he would extend the city's water/sewer treatment contract with Severn Trent three years last week. The city's contract with Severn Trent expired last month, but ...
Politics
Court Shifts, Graves Makes History
Even as Election Day brought an upset of Mississippi Supreme Court Chief Justice Jim Smith, a U.S. Chamber favorite, the outcome may not have loosened the corporate business lobby's influence ...
Talk
Hood v. Entergy
Attorney General Jim Hood won a small victory in U.S. District Court last month, with the court deciding to deny Entergy's attempt to block Hood from obtaining internal records regarding ...
Mississippi Needs ‘Early Voting'
If there is anything that this historic election proved to Mississippians, it is that the state needs to prioritize ways to ensure that all voters are accommodated fairly and efficiently.
[Sue Doh Nem] Presidential Boxing Match
Miss Doodle Mae: "Welcome to Clubb Chicken Wing's Post-Election Gathering, sponsored by Jojo's Discount Dollar Store, Bubba Robinski's Soy Protein Sausage Biscuits, Aunt Tee Tee Hustle's Technical Institute, Brotha Hustle's ...
[Kamikaze] What Now?
This election brought the best ... and worst this country has to offer.
Jacksonian
Byron Knight
Twenty-eight-year-old Byron Knight had no original intention of opening a gourmet coffee shop. But after a friend consulted him about opening a new business in Fondren, he loved the idea.
Four Years Ago Today
In my election hangover today, I've thought a lot about how four years ago today felt after a very bad president was re-elected. Here's our post the next morning, "Mourning ...
Cover
Glorious, Beautiful Leaps of Nicole Marquez
Nicole Marquez looks small in the bed with its hospital-white sheets, her short dark hair showing signs of her lying prone for a little too long.
Barbour's Lobbying Firm Now Open to Dems
In a dramatic sign of how the political winds have shifted, lobbying firm BRG (formerly known as Barbour, Griffith & Rogers) today announced that it has acquired a Democratic lobbying ...
A Heartfelt Response to Obama's Victory
Watch this clip of The View's Sherri Shepherd crying tears of joy over Obama's win. Get your tissues.
The Real Sarah Palin Unveiled
Now, it seems, we're going to hear all about the woman who helped McCain lose the election. A Newsweek story out today starts telling the rest of the story:
Tuesday, November 4
"Ain't No Stoppin' Us Now"
I saw this YouTube video today and it inspired me greatly, but I decided that I would not post it unless Obama won because of the song choice. Well, he ...
Obama Wins
The closing of the polls in California, Oregon and Washington at 11:00 pm Eastern time was enough for the major networks to put Senator Barack Obama over the top in ...
Open Thread: Thoughts on Returns, Exit Polls
The polls are starting to close in some spots on the East Coast. Here's where you can chat about the returns.
‘Studies Weekly' Kids' Vote Goes to Obama
Map below the fold.
With over 850,000 K-6 graders participating, the Studies Weekly poll was, well, a rout. Popular vote went 496,335 for Obama to 349,980 for McCain. The Electoral breakout was 483 to ...
JFP Election Party at Hal & Mal's Tonight 7 p.m.
The Democrats are at the Jackson Convention Complex, 105 E. Pascagoula St. Anyone know where the Republicans will be?
Open Thread: Election Chatter - Presidential
What is it you need to say about the presidential election? Let 'er rip!
Open Thread: Election Chatter - Mississippi Elections (Senate, etc.)
What's on your mind about the Mississippi elections? Musgrove v. Wicker? Cochran v. Fleming? Congressional seats? What about Supreme Court seats? Here's your spot.
Monday, November 3
Fulmer Out At Tennessee
It's the first of many changes in college football. Several will occur right here in Mississippi.
After 18 years as Tennessee's football coach, Phil Fulmer is out.
Wicker Reaching for Dem Coattails
You can tell Republicans have fallen on tough times when Roger Wicker tries to fool Hinds County voters into thinking he's a Democrat. The Musgrove campaign just sent out a ...
Open Thread: McCain-Palin's Lies, Damn Lies and Distortions
The whole coal-gate controversy, pushed by McCain and especially Palin, has inspired me to start a list of the lies/distortions that duo has pushed in recent weeks. I need y'all ...
Black Angst
Every supporter of Barack Obama seems to be elbow-deep in anxiety over whether this election will be stolen. But for black Americans, it may be worse, writes Jonathan Capeheart in ...
Obama's Grandmother Has Died
The day before the election, may she rest in peace:
"It is with great sadness that we announce that our grandmother, Madelyn Dunham, has died peacefully after a battle with cancer," Obama said in a joint statement with his sister, ...
Why Won't Palin Release Her Medical Records?
The fact that Gov. Sarah Palin is stonewalling on releasing her medical records in any form is raising eyebrows. CNN Political Ticker:
Obama: ‘Brothers Should Pull Up Their Pants'
In a substantive MTV interview (especially compared to most mainstream media), Barack Obama weighed in on the baggy-pants culture:
U. of Florida Student McCain Leader Now An 'Obamacan'
The Independent Florida Gator is reporting a last-minute conversion of the student leader of Gators for McCain:
