Stories for November 2014

FBI Investigating Threat Made Against the Grove

The FBI is looking into an anonymous threat made against trees and shrubs in the Grove at the University of Mississippi.

Runoffs Settle Judicial Races in Mississippi

In Hinds County, Jackson City Councilwoman LaRita Cooper-Stokes defeated state Rep. Kimberly Campbell in the race for county judge. Stokes will replace longtime County Court Judge Houston Patton, who did not seek re-election.

At 1 Month, US Ebola Monitors Finding No Cases

A federal Ebola monitoring program reaches the one-month mark on Thursday, and so far, it hasn't found any cases of Ebola.

Health Insurance Sign-Ups Coming to Shopping Malls

The Obama administration will promote health insurance coverage at shopping malls starting on Black Friday and continuing through the busiest shopping days of the holiday season, officials announced Wednesday.

Looking Way, Way Into Gay Marriage's Future in Mississippi

Predictably, U.S. District Judge Carlton Reeves—as most federal judges appointed by Presidents Clinton and Obama did before him—last night ruled that same-sex couples in Mississippi should be allowed to marry.

Garth Brooks Cancels Performance Over Ferguson as Cities Protest

Singer Garth Brooks has canceled a Thanksgiving appearance on NBC's "Tonight" show because he said it "seemed distasteful" given the reaction to the decision not to prosecute Ferguson, Missouri, police officer Darren Wilson for the shooting of Michael Brown this summer.

Doris Whitaker

The word pastoral has several meanings. In one sense, the word means to give spiritual or religious guidance. In another way, it evokes the shepherding of grazing animals. Doris Whitaker, the head chaplain at the University of Mississippi Medical Center, does both.

Prosecutor Faces New Criticism Over Ferguson Case

St. Louis County Prosecutor Bob McCulloch — whose impartiality has been questioned since soon after Michael Brown was killed by Officer Darren Wilson on Aug. 9 — has come under renewed scrutiny since he appeared before television cameras to announce that the grand jury would not indict Wilson.

South Asian Leaders Don't Sign Expected Agreements

South Asian leaders, including from rivals India and Pakistan, discussed trade and energy cooperation and regional peace on Wednesday, but did not reach a consensus on expected transportation and energy agreements.

Black Friday Gun Buys Test Background Check System

Black Friday isn't just when shoppers rush to stores for holiday sales. It's also one of the busiest days of the year for gun purchases.

Protesters Clear Out as Ferguson Streets Calm Down

Police have dispersed protesters from the streets of Ferguson after second night of demonstrations following a grand jury decision to not indict Officer Darren Wilson in the shooting death of Michael Brown.

Hong Kong Police Arrest Key Protesters, Clear Site

Police arrested key student leaders of Hong Kong's pro-democracy protests on Wednesday as they cleared barricades in one volatile district, throwing into doubt the future of a 2-month-old movement seeking free elections in the former British colony.

US Supreme Court Justices to Visit UM

U.S. Supreme Court Justices Antonin Scalia and Elena Kagan will speak at the University of Mississippi next month.

Judge: Miss. Gay-Marriage Ban Violates U.S. Constitution

A federal judge has overturned Mississippi's constitutional ban on same-sex marriage. In his 72-page order, U.S. District Judge Carlton Reeves wrote:

Something in the Water

It's interesting to see how we deal with changes in our lives. For those who go that route, marriage and giving birth are arguably two of the biggest ones.

Richard Kelso: Light on the Land

Richard Kelso's two-room studio, located above Hal & Mal's Restaurant, is teeming with items befitting a seasoned artist—from supplies to miniatures for still-life studies to samples of his work.

Autumn Bounty

My mother makes a delicious, double-crust "harvest" pie every year to usher in autumn's bounty of fresh pears and apples. It is an easy and very forgiving recipe.

JFP Top 25: Week 13

The biggest shock of the weekend was Arkansas trouncing Ole Miss 30-0 right before the Egg Bowl. Plus, Florida State struggled once again with Boston College.

The Slate

This might be the most expensive Egg Bowl in series history. Stubhub shows single tickets to be from $136 to $1,500.

Egg Bowl Outlook

Rivalry games are the type of games where you can throw the record for both teams out the window. Heck, you can throw the stats out the window as well.

Family Feud: A Rivalry for the Ages

There are better-known rivalry games then the annual battle between Mississippi State and Ole Miss, but it has everything you want in one. In fact, it might be one of the most underrated rivalry games in the country.

Decimating the Red and the Blue

Mississippi State is a McGowan family tradition. As a third-generation Bulldog, my parents raised me to do certain things: to treat others with respect, to fight for State and to perform to the best of my ability, but not necessarily in that order.

Culture v. Agriculture

To understand how my perception of Ole Miss could shift so drastically within my search for schools would require one to understand why many people come to Ole Miss.

Bo, Dak and their Coaches

Bo Wallace's route to Ole Miss was almost as circuitous as that of his head coach, Hugh Freeze. Wallace's college career began as a redshirt freshman at Arkansas State University in 2010, with Freeze as offensive coordinator.

The Egg Bowl is Anyone's Game

Bragging rights will be up for the taking this weekend in a showdown to cap off the greatest season of Mississippi college football in recent memory.

A Son's Thoughts on Willie Morris' 80th Birthday and the Egg Bowl

When Ole Miss beat Alabama last month, I immediately thought of my father. Although he was a graduate of the University of Texas and a proud Longhorn, Willie was still a native of Mississippi, and by default, a lifelong Ole Miss man.

Gov. Bryant: Stop Running Off LGBT Mississippians

How can you deny that fostering an oppressive and hateful atmosphere towards the LGBT community forces hard-working taxpayers to seriously question where their pink dollars are spent?

Stinker Quote of the Week: 'Broken'

Gregg Harper and his ilk—which includes conservative Republicans and Democrats—can never really articulate how welcoming immigrants is a step backward for the U.S.

Holiday Rebellion

CEO: "Because of Obamacare, Ebola outbreaks, terrorism and minimum-wage protests, Y'all Mart and Crunchie Burga World employees will not receive their annual holiday bonus this year.  On behalf of the corporate board of directors and management, we truly appreciate your hard work this year. Happy Holidays."

Mississippi Last In Vaccine Choice

While local sports enthusiasts rave that Mississippi is No. 1 in something other than obesity and teen pregnancy, the state has slid into first place in more than football in recent months. Mississippi has the highest rate of vaccinations.

Two Hinds County Judge Runoffs Today

Today, some Hinds County voters are returning to the polls for two runoffs for two county judge seats.

Kudzu Kings: Different Kind of Gumbo

From 1994 to 2003, the Kudzu Kings were Mississippi roots-rock royalty, performing with popular acts such as Widespread Panic and featuring guest musicians including Cody Dickinson of the North Mississippi Allstars and Bucky Baxter, pedal-steel guitarist for Bob Dylan.

Thanksgiving with Flair

As much as I loved the traditions my mother created around food, I desired to create new traditions for my family. It took me years and countless mistakes to make a Thanksgiving dinner that I could say had my own flair, and was worthy of my mother's tradition.

Donations Pour in for Stewpot Shelters

By the time you read this, two pivotal emergency shelters in Jackson may already be closed and no longer housing a combined 50 Jacksonians each night.

Gov. Bryant’s Ring-Toss Budget

Like the stuffed birds that will make an appearance at Thanksgiving dinner this week, Gov. Phil Bryant has fattened up state spending in his latest executive budget recommendation.

My Only Egg Bowl Regret

David Rae Morris and I both really wish our dads were here to witness this magical season—one in which both teams have helped take a lot of glory away from the usual football powerhouses and captured the country's imagination.

Neil Carter

Neil Carter has the distinction of writing about secular humanism while living in the reddest of Deep South states. Being a former evangelical makes him even more of a novelty.

Fires Burn in Ferguson After Mike Brown's Killer Escapes Indictment

Flames engulfed at least a dozen businesses in Ferguson early Tuesday and gunfire kept firefighters at bay after protests over the decision not to indict a police officer in Michael Brown's death turned violent, despite pleas for peace from Brown's family and others.

Ferguson Gears Up for Today's Grand Jury Decision

A grand jury has reached a decision about whether to indict a Ferguson police officer in the shooting death of Michael Brown, a spokesman for St. Louis County's top prosecutor said Monday.

Harold Jackson

After weeks of scrutiny of head coach Harold Jackson's leadership, the Jackson State Tigers upset their rivals, Alcorn State, in perhaps the Tigers' biggest win of the season.

Mayor Yarber: FBI Has Not Questioned Me

The meaning behind several cryptic tweets from Mayor Tony Yarber on Friday came into focus today as Yarber addressed rumors that he and other city hall officials could be targets of a federal corruption probe and that Yarber himself was arrested Friday afternoon.

Iran Nuclear Talks to be Extended Until July

Facing significant differences still between the United States and Iran, negotiators gave up on last-minute efforts to get a nuclear deal by the Monday deadline and extended their talks for another seven months.

Israel Leader Vows to Pass Nationality Law

Israel's prime minister vowed Monday to pass a contentious nationality law that has threatened the stability of his fragile coalition government, but he left the door open for negotiations to soften it.

Obama to Award Presidential Medal of Freedom

President Barack Obama is presenting the nation's highest civilian honor to 19 artists, activists, public servants and others.

AP Sources: Hagel Resigning as Defense Secretary

Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel is stepping down under pressure from President Barack Obama's Cabinet, senior administration officials said Monday, following a tenure in which he has struggled to break through the White House's insular foreign policy team.

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.

Winners and Losers in Obama's Immigration Plan

About 5 million people are expected to qualify under the measures outlined Thursday. But about 6 million who are in the country illegally will be left out.

Bryant Wants $3 Million to Pay For Community College Tech Scholarships

Bryant first floated the proposal earlier this month while speaking at Nissan Motor Co. in Canton and repeated it Monday when he made his proposal for the 2015 budget.

Arguments Set in Mississippi Same-Sex Divorce Case

The Mississippi Supreme Court will hear arguments Jan. 21 from a woman who wants the state to recognize her same-sex marriage in order to grant a divorce.

Arkansas Hosts Ole Miss: Things to Watch

Arkansas (5-5, 1-5 Southeastern Conference) hosts No. 8 Mississippi (8-2, 4-2) on Saturday with a chance to turn a 17-game SEC losing streak into back-to-back conference wins within a matter of a week.

Mississippi State Hosts Vanderbilt: Things to Watch

Even if the fourth-ranked Bulldogs (9-1, 5-1 Southeastern Conference) win their final two regular-season games, there's no guarantee they'll have a chance to play for a SEC or national championship.

Prison Contracts Task Force is Reviewing Documents

Former Mississippi Attorney General Mike Moore said Friday that he and others on a new task force have already started examining contracts awarded by the Department of Corrections as they evaluate state spending with private prison companies and other vendors.

Ferguson Grand Jury Still In Session, Protest Groups, Brown Family Call for Calm

FERGUSON, Mo. (AP) — Activists, authorities and the family of Michael Brown called for calm Friday as a grand jury drew closer to an announcement in the Ferguson police shooting. But a spokesman for St. Louis County's top prosecutor said the panel is still in session.

Mike Moore, Others Join Board to Review Epp's Prison Contracts

JACKSON, Miss. (AP) — A former attorney general has been appointed to a five-member task force that will review contracts awarded by the Mississippi Department of Corrections.

Mississippi State Starting Safety Arrested, Suspended

STARKVILLE, Miss. (AP) — Mississippi State starting safety Justin Cox has been suspended indefinitely from the football program after being arrested Friday on felony aggravated domestic violence and burglary charges.

Immigration Advocates (More or Less) Applaud Obama's Plan

President Obama's Immigration Accountability Executive Action focuses on toughening border protections against people entering the U.S. illegally, deporting people who have been convicted of felonies and expanding previous executive action protecting children who were brought to the country illegally.

Ole Miss Leader: Lymphoma Treatment Going Well

University of Mississippi Chancellor Dan Jones says his treatment for lymphoma "continues to go as well as possible."

Jay Hopson

Jay Hopson will always be the answer to a trivia question as the first white football coach hired in Alcorn State University and SWAC history. The New York Times, ESPN and many national news outlets covered Hopson's hiring in May 2012.

Angry Mexicans Protest Over 43 Missing Students

A largely peaceful march by tens of thousand demanding the return of 43 missing students ended in violence, as a small group of masked protesters battled police in Mexico City's main square.

Obama Spurns GOP with Expansive Immigration Orders

Spurning furious Republicans, President Barack Obama unveiled expansive executive actions on immigration Thursday night to spare nearly 5 million people in the U.S. illegally from deportation and refocus enforcement efforts on "felons, not families."

Florida State Shooter Went from Liked to Troubled

Florida State graduate Myron May seemed to change from a well-liked young attorney to would-be killer in a matter of months, stopped only by a fusillade of police bullets outside the library at his alma mater after he opened fire on students who dove between the stacks to escape.

Kerry to Leave Nuke Talks, Iran Ponders Next Step

U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry decided Friday to pull back from nuclear talks in Vienna, leaving Iran's foreign minister to ponder an apparent new proposal from Washington meant to bridge differences standing in the way of a deal with less than four days to deadline.

Biden Urges Russia to Uphold East Ukraine Truce

U.S. Vice President Joe Biden criticized Russia on Friday for its role in eastern Ukraine, urging Moscow to uphold a cease-fire in the war-torn region as he visited Kiev on the anniversary of the country's anti-government protests.

Fire at Miss. Ag Museum Ruled an Accident

The fire that destroyed three buildings at the Mississippi Agriculture and Forestry Museum started by accident. That's according to Insurance Commissioner Mike Chaney, who is also the state fire marshal.

Chokwe Lumumba Center Opens with Ferguson Talk

Last night, the Chokwe Lumumba Center for Economic Democracy and Development opened to the public with its first public event: a town hall meeting about protests in Ferguson, Mo. sparked by the police killing of 18 year-old Mike Brown in August.

Ruling: Mississippi Abortion Law Remains Blocked

A federal appeals court said Thursday that it won't reconsider its earlier ruling that a 2012 Mississippi abortion law is unconstitutional. The decision means the law remains blocked and Mississippi's only abortion clinic remains open.

Juan Joseph

Juan Joseph, a graduate of Millsaps College and a standout quarterback on the Majors' football team, died early Sunday, Nov. 16, in a Baton Rouge, La. hospital.

Kerry to Join Iran Nuclear Talks in Vienna

Negotiators in high-level talks with Iran over the country's nuclear program "are not talking about an extension" as a deadline approaches, U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry said Thursday.

Soaring Generic Drug Prices Draw Senate Scrutiny

Some low-cost generic drugs that have helped restrain health care costs for decades are seeing unexpected price spikes of up to 8,000 percent, prompting a backlash from patients, pharmacists and now Washington lawmakers.

Russia: North Korea Ready to Resume Nuclear Talks

North Korea says it's ready to resume international talks on its nuclear program, Russia's foreign minister said Thursday as Moscow sought to raise its profile in the international standoff over Pyongyang's nuclear and missile programs.

Miss. Universities Plan 3.2 Percent Price Increase

In-state tuition at eight public universities is likely to increase by an average of 3.2 percent this fall, if the College Board approves plans Thursday for the Mississippi University for Women to raise prices.

No Date for IS War Vote as Congress Waits on Obama

Congressional authorization of the U.S. war against Islamic State extremists has gone nowhere in two weeks since President Barack Obama vowed to coordinate with lawmakers on a stronger legal basis for military action, prompting growing frustration with the White House.

Hong Kong Activists Try to Storm Legislature

Tensions spiked at democracy protests that have gripped Hong Kong for nearly two months as a small group of activists clashed with police while trying to break into the city's legislature early Wednesday.

Obama Plan Won't Grant Immigrants Federal Benefits

As many as 5 million people in the country illegally would be spared from deportation and made eligible for work permits but not entitled to federal benefits—including health care tax credits—under President Barack Obama's immigration plan, officials said Wednesday.

Obama Signs Bill to Revamp Federal Child Care Aid

Federally subsidized child care providers will now have to conduct criminal background checks on their workers under new legislation signed into law by President Barack Obama.

New Kurdish Offensive Targets Islamic State Group

Iraqi Kurdish forces launched a new offensive Wednesday targeting Islamic State group extremists as a suicide bomber killed at least five people in the Kurds' regional capital.

2016 Contest Overshadows GOP Governors Meeting

No fewer than a half-dozen potential presidential candidates are gathering in Florida as the Republican Governors Association prepares to select its next leader.

How Not to Cook on Turkey Day

The holiday season is a busy one for many people. If cooking a Thanksgiving feast isn't part of your plans, lots of local restaurants can help out. Call now.

MAEP Memes: Myths vs. Realities

Opponents of the Mississippi Adequate Education Program are pushing a number of memes about the law and public education in Mississippi to argue their case. Here are how the arguments square with the facts.

What Schools Are Missing Out On

Mississippi public education has been underfunded 15 out of the last 17 years. While some say that money won't fix the deeply rooted problems in the state's education system, the things listed here would and they cost money.

One Destination, Two Routes

Former Gov. Ronnie Musgrove, who co-authored MAEP, and public-education advocates at Better Schools Better Jobs want the same thing: for the state to recognize its duty to fully fund education according to the formula it created.

How Is MAEP Calculated?

Parents' Campaign President Nancy Loome explains that the Mississippi Adequate Education Program formula looks at the funding that would be required for every student in the state to receive at least an adequate education.

MAEP Formula Explained

The MAEP formula explained

MAEP’s Moral Center: Mississippi’s Education Enigma

The quality of education in Mississippi is falling behind the rest of the nation with only 61 percent of students graduating from high school on time and two-thirds of kindergarteners not ready to learn how to read.

The Fire Next Time

City Council President De’Keither Stamps said last week’s fire at the state-owned Ag Museum, which Jackson fire crews extinguished, is a prime example of why the state should be kicking in to pay for public safety.

Mr. Barbour, Stop Insulting Black People

A few days ago I popped on the Jackson Free Press website to see what's going on in the city and noticed the interview with Ward 1 County Supervisor candidate Charles Barbour. It wasn't long before I was overcome by the nausea I feel when people choose to talk about things they don't understand.

The Perils of Deregulating MDOC

Not long after Chris Epps took over as the commissioner of the state prison system, the Mississippi Legislature passed a bill that removed the Mississippi Department of Corrections from the purview of the state personnel board for one year.

Stinker Quote of the Week: 'Important'

As one of the state's top law enforcement officials, Jim Hood probably has more power to clean up elections in Mississippi—which was recently named the nation's most corrupt—than anyone else in the state.

Fighting Corruption Requires More, Not Less Oversight

A movement has been afoot for sometime to roll back government regulations and oversight at every level, the argument being that any amount of government mucks up the words for free-wheeling capitalists to create jobs and make everybody gobs of money.

Origin of Cotton: Basquiat and the South

A painting is probably by Jean-Michel Basquiat if a single figure or a large head dominates a painting's canvas and is surrounded by smaller drawings of body parts and other objects in quirky but accurate line drawings, pieces of language and riotous blasts of color spread into cartoon flatness.

Say ‘Yes, MAAM’ to Classical Music

You may not be a die-hard classical-music purist, but the Mississippi Academy of Ancient Music, known as MAAM, can make you feel like one.

The Source of Southern Songwriting

Millsaps College's Arts & Lecture series is known for featuring gifted speakers and talented artists, but on Monday, Nov. 24, the series steps into new territory with a focus on songwriting.

The Slate

Will Muschamp is stepping down as the head coach for the Florida Gators after this season. Oh, don't feel bad for him. The Gators will pay him $6.3 million just to go away.

No Margin for Error

Mississippi State University seemed to be in shock for the first half of last weekend's game against University of Alabama. The Bulldogs played some of their worst football of the season as the Crimson Tide won 25-20.

2014 JFP Top 25 Poll: Week 12

Florida State University returns to the top spot after Mississippi State University's loss to the University of Alabama. The Seminoles escaped with another win but remain undefeated. That counts for something.

Hickingbottom Joins Ward 1 Race

The field is set for the special election to replace Quentin Whitwell as Jackson Ward 1 Councilman. The last man—all six candidates are men—in is Bob Hickingbottom.

A Living Document

The West Jackson Master Plan, which started a year a and a half ago, is complete. Planners hope the end product—the West Jackson Planning Guidebook—will act as a kind of living document that residents can use to spur growth.

Lung Cancer: Know the Facts, Women

As a medical oncologist, I treat patients battling a variety of cancers—from common types such as breast and prostate to rare cancers of the brain and bones. But of all the types of cancer I see, none causes patients as much fear and dread as lung cancer.

Fitness App of the Week: Walk for a Dog

You know what they say: A dog is a man's best friend. Perhaps that's why quadruped pals (and I don't mean cats) make the best walking or running partners. A dog's gotta walk, right? And you need exercise.

The 'Be Happy' Playlist

Music is the one of the only reasons I can stand to be in a gym. I hate to admit it, but if my iPhone isn't at least 50-percent charged, I won't exercise because I can't deal without my playlist.

Dorlisa Hutton

One student in particular holds a special place for Dorlisa Hutton, project manager at the educational nonprofit Scientific Research, aka SR1, in Jackson.

Facts About Public Education Matter to Communities

The Clarion-Ledger recently published an opinion piece that attacked public education in Mississippi and castigated its supporters. The piece, written by Empower Mississippi President Grant Callen, advocated for alternatives to traditional public schooling.

Of Charles Barbour, TEDx Jackson and Decent Role Models

Simple facts about what built today's inequality are not discussed by people like Charles Barbour. They still use the same old-school scare tactics that should offend white voters because they assume we're too dumb to see through the lies and reject them.

Judge Promises Same-Sex Marriage Ruling Quickly

While a federal district judge in Mississippi may rule same-sex marriage is a constitutional right as soon as this week, the legalization of same-sex marriage in the state is in the hands of the 5th U.S. Court of Appeals and, ultimately, the U.S. Supreme Court.

Bryant Budget Seeks Tax Cuts

Republican Gov. Phil Bryant said Monday that he wants to cut income taxes for some Mississippians earning less than $53,000 a year as part of his 2016 budget proposal.

While Stores Prepare for the Holidays, UMMC Prepares for Ebola

With the holiday season approaching, the Outlets of Mississippi (200 Bass Pro Drive, Pearl) is preparing a number of events to celebrate the season beginning this weekend.

Obama Stakes Final 2 Years on Climate Change

With limited time still in power, President Barack Obama is staking his final two years on climate change, pushing the issue to the front of his agenda as he seeks to leave an imprint on the world that will endure after he's gone.

North Korea Faces Key Vote in UN on Human Rights

An anxious North Korea will see Tuesday how the boldest effort yet to bring its leaders to account for alleged crimes against humanity will move forward, as the U.N. General Assembly's human rights committee votes on a resolution that demands the country's referral to the International Criminal Court.

National Guard Prepares for More Ferguson Unrest

As a grand jury weighs possible criminal charges against the police officer who fatally shot Michael Brown, Missouri's governor has again activated the National Guard in an effort to avoid more unrest in the St. Louis suburb of Ferguson.

House Democrats Re-Elect Pelosi as Minority Leader

Democrats re-elected Rep. Nancy Pelosi to another two-year term as House minority leader on Tuesday, two weeks after elections in which the party lost at least a dozen seats in the chamber.

Palestinians Kill 4 in Jerusalem Synagogue Attack

Two Palestinian cousins armed with meat cleavers and a gun stormed a Jerusalem synagogue during morning prayers Tuesday, killing four people in the city's bloodiest attack in years. Police killed the attackers in a shootout.

GOP Vows to Pass Keystone Later if Bill Fails Now

Republican leaders vowed Tuesday to take up and pass a bill approving the Keystone XL pipeline in Congress again next year if the Senate fails to advance the measure, or President Barack Obama vetoes it.

Gov. Bryant Seeks $79M Tax Cut for Lower Earners

Gov. Phil Bryant wants to cut income taxes for low-earning Mississippians as part of his 2016 budget proposal.

Hinds Election Snafu Could Bring Sanctions Against Commissioners

The Hinds County supervisors are calling on the local district attorney and the state attorney general to sanction the county election commission for failure to order the number of ballots state law requires for the Nov. 4 general election.

EKO the Sumatran Tiger Cub

EKO (Indonesian for "first born"), a 100-pound Sumatran tiger cub, was born in May, and JSU adopted him Nov. 11 in a partnership with the zoo.

Analysis: 2015 Republican Primary May Grow Again

The recent Republican U.S. Senate race won by Thad Cochran may be a sign that Republican dominance in general elections will finally translate into GOP primaries that are larger statewide than Democratic races.

Israel to Step Up Demolition of Palestinian Homes

Israel said Monday it has sent notices to the families of several Palestinians in the West Bank implicated in attacks against Israelis to vacate their homes ahead of their impending demolitions.

European Jihadis Take Lead Roles in Killing Video

Three young Europeans are believed to be among the cold-eyed fighters on a propaganda video showing a beheaded American aid worker and the deaths of Syrian soldiers, as the extremist Islamic State group tries to portray itself as an international movement.

Nebraska Hospital: Surgeon with Ebola Has Died

A surgeon who contracted Ebola in his native Sierra Leone died Monday while being treated in a biocontainment unit at a Nebraska hospital, the facility said.

Gay Marriage Issue Squarely Before High Court

A same-sex couple from Michigan is putting the question of the right to marry nationwide squarely before the Supreme Court.

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.

JSU Sponsoring Jackson Zoo Tiger

Jackson State University is sponsoring a rare Sumatran Tiger cub at the Jackson Zoo as learning exhibits for children, teaching exercises for students, as well as marketing and zoo membership for university personnel.

US Nuclear Woes: Pentagon Chief Orders a Shakeup

The Pentagon will spend an additional $10 billion to correct deep problems of neglect and mismanagement within the nation's nuclear forces, Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel declared Friday, pledging firm action to support the men and women who handle the world's most powerful and deadly weapons.

Iraq's Forces Drive IS Militants from Key Town

Iraqi forces drove Islamic State militants out of a strategic oil refinery town north of Baghdad on Friday, scoring their biggest battlefield victory since they melted away in the face of the terror group's stunning summer offensive that captured much of northern and western Iraq.

Democrat Baria Wants Legislative MDOC Hearings

A Democratic lawmaker wants the Legislature to look deeper into the allegations of corruption that have ensnared longtime Mississippi Department of Corrections Commissioner Christopher Epps.

No Deaths in Fire at Miss. Agriculture Museum

State and local fire investigators began work Friday to determine the cause of a two-alarm fire at the Mississippi Agriculture and Forestry Museum in Jackson.

John Doar

John Doar, who as a top Justice Department civil rights lawyer in the 1960s fought to protect the rights of black voters and worked against segregation in the South, died Tuesday at age 92.

Russia to G-20: We're Here. So Are Our Warships.

Vladimir Putin is underlining his presence at a major summit of world leaders in Australia by stationing warships in waters off the country's northeastern coast, prompting the Australian prime minister to angrily accuse Russia of trying to reclaim the "lost glories" of the Soviet Union.

Israel Lifts Muslim Age Limits for Jerusalem Site

A Jerusalem holy site at the heart of recent tensions between Israelis and Palestinians was quiet on Friday, police said, after age restrictions for Muslim men who wanted to pray there were lifted for the first time in weeks, but minor clashes with Palestinian protesters continued in the West Bank.

Challenge to Obamacare on Contraceptives Rejected

A federal appeals court on Friday rejected a challenge to Obamacare that would have enabled non-profit religious organizations to avoid government-approved contraception programs.

Nigeria Militants Take Kidnapped Schoolgirl Town

Islamic extremists in Nigeria have seized Chibok, forcing thousands of residents to flee from the northeast town from which the insurgents kidnapped nearly 300 schoolgirls in April, a local official said Friday.

US to Grant Refugee Status to Some Children

The U.S. government will launch a program in December to grant refugee status to some minors under the age of 21 who live in Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador and whose parents legally reside in the United States.

Ex-Gov.: 'Tar Babies' Quip Not Meant to Offend

Former Mississippi Gov. Haley Barbour acknowledges he used the term "tar babies" to describe President Barack Obama's policies, but says "neither the context nor the connotation was intended to offend."

Trooper Ambush Suspect Charged with Terrorism

Authorities have added terrorism charges against a man accused of ambushing a Pennsylvania State Police barracks and killing a trooper, and they say he told them he wanted to "wake people up."

Miss. Supreme Court Refereeing Bailiff Dispute

Hinds County Sheriff Tyrone Lewis is asking the Mississippi Supreme Court to uphold his authority to hire and assign bailiffs to the local courts.

W.C. Gorden

Jackson State University has seen some great football coaches, but the greatest, without question, is W.C. Gorden, who coached the Tigers from 1977 to 1991.

Clinical Trials on Tap for Possible Ebola Vaccine

A top U.S. health official says long-anticipated clinical trials of a possible Ebola vaccine will start soon in West Africa, as the global response to the outbreak took on added urgency with new cases in Mali and reports that the death toll has surpassed 5,000.

Liberia Lifts Emergency Amid Progress on Ebola

Liberia's president is lifting a state of emergency imposed to control an Ebola outbreak that has ravaged the country and two other West African nations.

Jordan, Israel to Meet Over Tensions in Jerusalem

Facing rising tensions over a revered holy site, Jordan's king and Israel's prime minister were to meet Thursday over how to inject calm into troubled Jerusalem before burgeoning violence grows out of control.

IS Group Leader Says Will Fight to Last Man

The head of the extremist Islamic State group has said it will fight to the last man.

Lawmakers Move to Strip Former Nazis of Benefits

A bipartisan group of lawmakers will introduce legislation Thursday to strip suspected Nazi war criminals of their Social Security benefits, insisting American taxpayers should not be underwriting the retirement of anyone who participated in the Third Reich's atrocities.

State Board Delays Sports Cuts in Troubled Schools

Cuts to sports and activities at schools districts that lose state accreditation would be delayed under a plan approved Wednesday by the Mississippi Board of Education.

Monsanto to Pay Pacific Northwest Wheat Farmers

Monsanto Co. says it will pay $2.4 million to settle a dispute with farmers in the Pacific Northwest over genetically modified wheat.

Banks Fined Billions for Rigging Currency Markets

Traders with nicknames like the "Three Musketeers" and the "A-Team" plotted over Internet chat rooms to manipulate currency markets for years, profiting at the expense of clients—and then congratulating themselves for their brilliance—regulators said Wednesday, as they fined five banks $3.4 billion.

‘Everything Will Be Alright’ for Weezer

The first time I heard Weezer, the band was a musical guest on "Late Night with Conan O'Brien."

Let's Get Ethical ... Ethical

Operation Shoestring, a Jackson-based nonprofit that supports children and families, will highlight the meaning of ethical leadership at its annual Conversation About Community luncheon on Monday, Nov. 17.

2014 JFP College Football Poll: Week 11

Teams eliminated from the playoff were Kansas State, Michigan State and Notre Dame in games against other teams in the playoff race. Auburn finally ran out of luck, and Texas A&M was able to reap the rewards.

Mississippi State’s Biggest Game

For Mississippi State University, football has come full circle.

The Slate

A SWAC team from Mississippi will play in the championship game for the third straight year. Alcorn State wrapped up the east division and now awaits to see who it plays out of the west.

Art for Everyone

When I read in the St. Andrew's Cathedral newsletter about local artist William Goodman's four-week art and faith course on Wednesday evenings, I decided to give it a shot.

Ye Olde Pub Meeting Place

Upon hearing the name The Bulldog, you may picture a loud sports bar with team signage everywhere. Maybe you even picture a bar dedicated to Mississippi State University. But The Bulldog may surprise you.

Have a Fashionable Winter

With a whole new season comes the constant question of the day: What am I going to wear?

Thrifty Finds

In this day and age, it can be hard to stay on top of trends while staying within your budget. One way to combat that is shopping at thrift stores. Here are some cool items JFP staffers have found at local (and nonlocal) thrift stores.

10 Little Masterpieces

The Jackson Free Press talked to stylist Adrienne Williams of Fondren Nails to for nail tips and the latest trends.

Beauty Sans Chemicals

Making your own beauty products can be cheaper than the price tag at the organic-food store and healthier than buying chemical-laden goods at a conventional grocery or drug store.

Jackson’s Next Top Modeling Career

Jackson is not typically considered a mecca for models or the modeling industry in general, but with the work of people like Chanelle Renee', the creator of the Chanelle Renee' Project, and Funmi "Queen" Franklin, the founder of Thick and Proud Sisters, known as TAPS, it may become one in the near future.

‘This Is All A Big Game’

What a gathering it was two years ago when Terry McAuliffe got together with his buddies Bill Clinton and Haley Barbour in Horn Lake to celebrate the plant opening of GreenTech, a then-McAuliffe-led producer of battery-charged automobiles.

Ban-the-Box a Good Step

For decades, employers from fast-food joints to mall boutiques and financial-services firms to news organizations have been asking prospective employees about their criminal histories.

Stinker Quote of the Week: 'Literary'

If anyone is aware of the multiple, offensive meanings of the term tar-baby, it's the former governor and Yazoo City native with a history of landing in hot water over racist comments.

... The People Are Screwed

Boneqweesha Jones: "Welcome to Ghetto Science Public Television's Post-Midterm Election Wrap-Up News Brief. I'm your on-the-scene reporter and host here to discuss the recent November 2014 Midterm Election Massacre."

MDOC Scandal Highlights Privatization Problems

With the nation's largest private prison operators earning more than $3 billion in revenue, private-prison and government watchdogs say the opportunity for the brand of corruption alleged against Epps and McCrory is great.

Charles Barbour: On Kooks, Black Families and His Wife

Charles Barbour, 52, studied criminal justice at the University of Mississippi. As a city councilman, he would like to see the Jackson Police Department adequately funded but given financial oversight.

Janis Jordan

Creativity flows through Janis Jordan, the founder of Bk2natur, a company that makes natural handmade soaps.

Behind the Façade

The TODAY/AOL Ideal to Real Body Image survey released in February said that women spend an average of 355 hours, or 14 days, each year grooming themselves.

Performing with Purpose

Yazoo City native Brandon Mitchell has been singing as long as he can remember, but it wasn't until he took his talent to church that he realized how it could move people.

Earning an Artist’s Eyes

For Vicksburg photographer Glynn Fought, the key to creating an interesting work of art is often as simple as finding another perspective.

Federal Judge Strikes Down SC Gay Marriage Ban

A federal judge struck down South Carolina's ban on same-sex marriage on Wednesday, though marriage licenses can't immediately be handed out.

Sterilization Deaths Show India's Health Care Ills

The deaths of 12 women after they underwent sterilization procedures this week have raised serious ethical questions about India's drive to curb a booming population by paying women who get sterilized.

Public to Comment on 1st-in-Nation Tobacco Ban

A proposed first-in-the-nation ban on sales of all tobacco and nicotine products has bitterly divided this small community, and health officials are bracing for an onslaught of opinions as they consider the move.

Cosmic 1st: Spacecraft Sends Lander Toward Comet

Hundreds of millions of miles from Earth, a European spacecraft released a lander toward the icy, dusty surface of a speeding comet Wednesday, setting off a seven-hour countdown to an audacious attempt to answer some big questions about the origin of the universe.

Israel Approves 200 New Homes in East Jerusalem

Israeli authorities gave preliminary approval Wednesday for construction of 200 new homes in a Jewish area of east Jerusalem, a move likely to ratchet up already heightened tensions in the city.

Ebola Workers Ask Congress for Help

Health workers on the front line of the Ebola crisis say the need for urgent help isn't letting up, as Congress begins considering President Barack Obama's $6.2 billion emergency aid request to fight the disease.

Man Objects to No-Gun Airport Signs

On Oct. 6, Adam Brock filed a lawsuit in Hinds County Circuit Court alleging that signs posted in Jackson Medgar-Wiley International Airport violate state law.

Local Art at Fischer's, Mellow Moustaches, UMMC AirCare and MSU/VA Partnership

Beginning Thursday, Nov. 13, Fischer Galleries (736 N. State St.) will display a new gallery of works by Mississippi artists Cathy Hegman and Stacey Johnson.

Rep. Bennie Thompson

Three heroes of the Civil Rights Movement in Mississippi will posthumously receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom thanks to Democratic U.S. Rep. Bennie Thompson of Mississippi.

Mississippi's First Same-Sex Marriage Challenge Hits Court Tomorrow

Tomorrow, Nov. 12, U.S. District Judge Carlton W. Reeves will hear a complaint filed on behalf of two same-sex couples, Andrea Sanders and Rebecca Bickett, Jocelyn Pritchett and Carla Webb and Campaign for Southern Equality.

Miss. Budgeters Expect Modest Growth in Spending

Top Mississippi lawmakers said Monday they expect a 3 percent increase in state spending during the coming year, reflecting a prediction of modest growth in the state economy.

HRC Campaign Seeks to Bridge Faith and LGBT Advancement

The Human Rights Campaign has started an initiative to advance public education and engagement of LGBT issues through advertisements, door-to-door efforts, and communication through mail and phone calls.

KiOR Files for Bankruptcy, but Not Miss. Unit

Biofuel maker KiOR Inc. has filed for bankruptcy, although its Mississippi subsidiary has not, preserving the chance that its Columbus plant could be sold quickly.

Nick Taylor

Nick Taylor was down on his game over the summer, struggling with his putter as he fought to earn a PGA Tour card. So even he was a little stunned Sunday when he was holding a big bronze rooster and celebrating a comeback victory in the Sanderson Farms Championship.

Postal Service Says it is Victim of Hacking Attack

The U.S. Postal Service said Monday it is the victim of a cyberattack and that information about its employees, including Social Security numbers, may have been compromised.

Obama and GOP Lawmakers Break Bread but Not Ice

Disagreement wasn't supposed to be on the menu at the White House luncheon designed to bring together President Barack Obama and Republicans who will soon control the next Congress. Instead of cooperation, a fresh dispute found its way to the table.

Obama Wants More Regulation of Internet Providers

Internet providers shouldn't be allowed cut deals with online services like Netflix or YouTube to move their content faster, and should be regulated more like phone companies, President Barack Obama said Monday in an announcement that was swiftly rejected by industry.

In Shift, Russia Lets Ruble Float Free in Markets

Russia's Central Bank on Monday scrapped its daily controls on the value of the ruble, allowing the battered currency to float freely in financial markets earlier than planned.

Liberia Village Becomes a New Ebola Epicenter

A schoolteacher brought his sick daughter from Liberia's capital to this small town of 300 people. Soon he was dead along with his entire family, and they are now buried in the forest nearby along with an increasing number of residents.

An Awkward Handshake: Leaders of China, Japan Meet

An uneasy handshake Monday between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe marked the first meeting between the two men since either took power, and an awkward first gesture toward easing two years of high tensions.

US Faces Last Best Chance on Iran Nuke Deal

The Obama administration is facing its last best chance to curb Iran's nuclear program — not just to meet an end-of-the-month deadline for a deal, but also to seal one before skeptical Republicans who will control Congress next year are able to scuttle it.

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.

Hearing Set on Challenge to Miss. Gay Marriage Ban

A federal judge will hear arguments next week in a lawsuit that challenges Mississippi's ban on same-sex marriage.

Justices to Hear Challenge to Health Law Subsidies

The Supreme Court agreed Friday to hear a new challenge to President Barack Obama's health care law that threatens subsidies that help millions of low- and middle-income people afford their health insurance premiums.

Judge Approves Bankruptcy Exit Plan for Detroit

A judge on Friday approved Detroit's plan to get out of bankruptcy, ending the largest public filing in U.S. history and launching the city into a turnaround that will require discipline after years of corruption, budget-busting debt and an exodus of residents.

Farish Street Ladies

Playwright Carole Cannon wants to change Farish Street's image, and it starts with "The Women of Farish Street," a one-woman show starring actress Jasmine Rivera, at Jackson State University's F.D. Hall Music Center, Friday, Nov. 7 and Saturday, Nov. 8.

Ghost Town Blues Band

When Memphis, Tenn., sextet Ghost Town Blues Band plays Underground 119 on Nov. 8 for its first official show in Jackson, it promises to bring some of Memphis with it.

Al-Qaida Group Seizes Villages from Syrian Rebels

Al-Qaida-linked fighters captured at least three villages from Western-backed rebels in northwestern Syria on Friday as the militants continued their push to assert control over an area once held by more moderate groups.

Taking Credit for Killing bin Laden Sparks Debate

Some special operations service members and veterans are unhappy that one of their own has taken credit publicly for killing Osama bin Laden. Others say they have gotten used to the idea that their brethren might break the code of silence and seek to profit from their deeds.

Prosecutors Drop Charge Against AC/DC's Phil Rudd

New Zealand authorities made an embarrassing about-face on Friday when prosecutors dropped a murder-for-hire charge against AC/DC drummer Phil Rudd, saying there was not enough evidence to proceed.

The Colosseum: Ancient Ruin or Modern Venue?

An archaeologist's proposal to return the Colosseum's storied arena to the state it was in when gladiators sparred with lions, has sparked a lively debate over appropriate uses of the monument that symbolizes the glories of ancient Rome.

Heavy Security at Contested Jerusalem Shrine

Israel's prime minister blamed "militant Islamic incitement" for growing tensions in Jerusalem, especially at a contested holy site that was ringed Friday by hundreds of Israeli riot police as about 15,000 Muslims performed weekly prayers there.

Federal Appeals Judge is Swing Vote on Key Issue

Judge Jeffrey S. Sutton wrote the majority opinion Thursday in a 2-1 decision by the 6th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals that upheld anti-gay marriage laws in Ohio, Michigan, Kentucky and Tennessee.

Chris Epps, Ex-Prison Boss, Pleads Not Guilty in Corruption Case

Christopher B. Epps, the former director of Mississippi's prison system, sat in federal courthouse as some of the people around him made small talk, some even joking about the charges Epps faces.

Epps, McCrory Indictment Outlines MDOC Bribery Scheme

Christopher Epps, the long-tenured commissioner of the Mississippi Department of Corrections, and former Rankin County School Board President Cecil McCrory will be arraigned later today on a 49-count indictment in Jackson.

Jarvis Summers

This season, former Provine High School star Jarvis Summers will have to be the leader on and off the court for the Ole Miss Rebels.

GOP in Charge, Eager to Move on Keystone XL, Taxes

Republicans' resounding victory gives them an opportunity to push legislation that's been bottled up in the Democratic Senate, from targeting elements of President Barack Obama's health care law to constructing the Keystone XL oil pipeline to rolling back environmental regulations.

HealthCare.gov Gets Cybersecurity Upgrades

Officials say HealthCare.gov has gotten cybersecurity upgrades ahead of a Nov. 15 start for the second open enrollment season under President Barack Obama's health care law.

AC/DC's Phil Rudd Accused of Murder-for-Hire Plot

Drummer Phil Rudd of Australian rock band AC/DC whose hits include "Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap" was accused Thursday of trying to arrange two killings as well as possession of drugs.

Indictment: Rankin County Businessman Bribed MDOC's Epps for Prison Contracts

Christopher Epps, the long-tenured commissioner of the Mississippi Department of Corrections, and former Rankin County School Board President Cecil McCrory will be arraigned this later today on a 49-count indictment in Jackson.

Live Blog: TEDx Jackson

We're liveblogging TEDx Jackson from the Pix/Capri in Fondren.

Epps Resigns as Miss. Corrections Commissioner

The Department of Corrections said state Corrections Commissioner Christopher Epps has resigned without giving a reason.

Your Turn: Republicans Ignoring Positive Economy Signs

Let the good times roll! What is this election really about? The economy, stupid! The president and Democrats have done a masterful job of turning around the recession economy they inherited from the Republicans in 2008.

Seeing Eye

Dr. Christopher Bullin is an optometrist at Mississippi EyeCare Associates.

JFP College Football Top 25 Poll: Week 10

There was some more shake-up in the poll this week after University of Mississippi, University of Georgia, University of Arizona, University of Utah, University of West Virginia and University of East Carolina lost.

Elimination Saturday

College football is going to give us a full slate of meaningful games this Saturday. As many as six of them could affect the playoff picture and the national-championship race. That is, if other teams don't get walk away with upsets.

The Slate

There have been fewer heartbreaking losses than what happened to Ole Miss on Saturday. It is tough to have the game-winning touchdown and star wide receiver taken away in one play.

‘Tartuffe’: Wit’s Timeless Sting

Moliere, the stage name of Jean-Baptiste Poquelin, made a career out of writing plays that poked fun at the ills of the French high bourgeoisie—greed, hypochondria, philandering, pretension. "Tartuffe" takes aim at hypocrisy, gullibility and obsession through the vehicle of religion.

Big Change on the Big Screen

While some focus only on the opportunities ahead, Edward Saint Pe', founder and director of the Mississippi International Film Festival, is paving the way for emerging moviemakers right now.

Cory Branan: The Hitless Hero

Southaven native Cory Branan is coming close to home on Nov. 9 with a stop at Duling Hall in support of his newest album, "The No-Hit Wonder," his second release through Chicago-based label Bloodshot Records.

Revolutionizing Seafood

Though the word "revolution" ordinarily indicates an intention to dramatically change things, Seafood R'evolution actually seeks to preserve and honor Mississippi's seafood culture and heritage.

Brush Strokes of a Southern Love Story

The love story of Nell Knox and William Goodman began in June 2011 at a mutual friend's house.

Vaccine Truthiness

It was October 2009, and political and cultural critic Bill Maher, who is known for his progressive views on most everything, locked horns on his HBO show with Bill Frist, a conservative Republican, former U.S. senator and physician from Tennessee over flu vaccines.

Maher: In His Own Words

"To me, a real patriot is like a real friend. Who's your real friend? It's the person who tells you the truth. That's who my real friends are. So, you know, I think as far as our country goes, we need more people who will do that."

Mr. Opinionated: Bill Maher Skewers the Right and the Left

Love him or hate him, Bill Maher is informed. Between having a network news editor for a father and a double-major bachelor's degree in English and history from Cornell University, he's articulate on a wide range of topics.

Mayor: Answer Questions About Tax Law Change

During Mayor Tony Yarber's campaign, he said he would be dedicated to working for the "everyday people of Jackson" if elected.

Best of Jackson 2020: All About Local

With the holidays and cooler weather upon us, another season begins—Best of Jackson.

Stinker Quote of the Week: 'Viable'

Despite the early problems with the online health-care exchanges and other bugs, every day new information emerges about the financial and health benefits of the ACA.

A Lesson in Character

One of the most interesting aspects of being a high school teacher is observing the social interactions that occur between the students. If you throw in the fact that I only graduated from high school myself four years ago, the lens through which I observe the interactions are very "adjusted."

City Rethinks Problem Properties

Since August, more than 200 Jackson lots have been declared menaces to public health, safety and welfare.

Capitol Street’s Catch-22

At close to 5 p.m. on Sept. 24, water spouted high into the air from a 12-inch water main into the air, flooding Capitol Street in downtown Jackson.

Ashby Foote, Enterprising Candidate

Ashby Foote is new to the political scene, but he believes his knack for numbers gives him an edge as a candidate for Ward 1 City Council.

Funding Cuts Could Put Women and Children Out

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development is urging Jackson to move toward funding rapid-rehousing programs instead of emergency shelters. In fact, they have a put a cap on the percentage of Jackson's HUD grant that the city can use on emergency shelters.

Timothy Kendricks

Timothy Kendricks, 27, isn't your average college student. He battled a life-threatening disease and came out on top, and then he wrote a book about his struggles.

Mississippi: Clawing to the Top

As we've all been riding high in recent weeks over the Mississippi State football team's meteoric rise on the media radar, we've all seen those tweets. You know, the anti-Mississippi ones that we all know go deeper than football rivalries.

Two Years of Trainwreck-Town

Local record labels Elegant Trainwreck and Homework Town have played a big role in expanding music in Jackson.

What Does ‘Clean’ Actually Mean?

People who eat clean learn to read nutrition labels, and, perhaps most importantly, listen to their bodies: If you feel bad after eating certain foods, maybe it's time to give them up.

Water Utilities Sue Over Domestic Violence Rule

The Mississippi Rural Water Association has sued the state Public Service Commission in federal court, claiming the commission overstepped its authority and conflicted with federal law when it required a 60-day delay in utility deposits for domestic violence victims.

Gregg Harper Wins Another Term in Congress

Republican Gregg Harper of Pearl has won another term in central Mississippi's 3rd Congressional District.

Rep. Bennie Thompson Cruises to Re-Election

Democrat Bennie Thompson of Bolton has won another term in Mississippi's 2nd Congressional District.

Miss. Elects Cochran to 7th term

Mississippi Republican Thad Cochran has won a seventh term in the U.S. Senate after enduring a primary that was the toughest challenge of his political career and a general election in which he rarely acknowledged his Democratic opponent.

Yarber, Council Push to Ban the Box for Convictions

Mayor Tony Yarber announced that the city would look to end the practice of asking about applicants' criminal records and to encourage public and private employers to do the same.

1 Million Cups, Kemper Costs and Minority Business Recognition

Jackson will soon be the newest home of 1 Million Cups, a national program to engage, educate and connect local businesses.

Dr. Haskell S. Bingham

Dr. Haskell S. Bingham, Ph.D, former dean of admissions and records at Jackson State University, died Thursday, Oct. 23, at Southside Regional Medical Center in Petersburg, Va., where he had been living since 1984. He was 84.

Appeals Court Takes on NSA Surveillance Case

A conservative gadfly lawyer who has made a career of skewering Democratic administrations is taking his battle against the National Security Agency's telephone surveillance program to a federal appeals court.

Mexico Mayor, Wife Detained in Case of 43 Missing

Federal police early Tuesday detained the former mayor of the southern Mexican city of Iguala and his wife, who are accused of ordering the Sept. 26 attacks on teachers' college students that left six dead and 43 still missing.

APNewsBreak: Russia Plans Nuclear Summit Boycott

Russia has informed the United States that it will boycott the 2016 Nuclear Security Summit, diplomats told The Associated Press on Tuesday, potentially stripping the meeting of one of its key participants and hurting efforts initiated by President Barack Obama to reduce the threat of nuclear terrorism.

Panel Criticizes ShamsidDeen, Democrats

A committee that oversees state judicial elections is criticizing a candidate for circuit judge in Hinds County, saying he's improperly being linked to the Democratic Party and Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Travis Childers, and that he's misleading people into believing he's the incumbent.

Cochran, Childers Make Final Pitch to Miss. Voters

Republican Sen. Thad Cochran and his Democratic challenger Travis Childers are traveling the state, making their last-minute appeals to voters.

Brittany Maynard Galvanizes Right-to-Die Movement

With no states voting on right-to-die laws Tuesday, the weekend death of Brittany Maynard won't have an immediate political impact.

Stokes, Graham Blast New Jail Planning Committee

In response to the seemingly never-ending bad news out of the Raymond Detention Center, county officials this morning took an incremental first step toward finding a solution.

Analysis: Miss. Tax Cuts Could be Debated in 2015

Mississippi has state elections in 2015, and it's a safe bet that lawmakers will try to endear themselves to voters by debating a tax cut.

Magic Johnson

Earvin "Magic" Johnson Jr.'s million-dollar smile made him a star on and off the basketball court. He was the face of the "Showtime" Los Angeles Lakers in the 1980s and 1990s.

Russia Backs Ukrainians Separatists' Election

Russia gave its backing Monday to a contentious election held by separatists in eastern Ukraine, setting the stage for renewed diplomatic tensions with the West.

Virgin Spaceship's Descent System Deployed Early

A space tourism rocket broke apart in flight over California's Mojave Desert after a device to slow the experimental spaceship's descent deployed too soon, federal investigators said.

Syrian al-Qaida Forces Mass Near Turkey Crossing

Al-Qaida militants massed Monday near a Syrian border town in what appeared to be an attempt to seize a vital crossing from Western-backed rebels, activists said, underscoring the weakness of the fighters America hopes could be a moderate force in the chaotic civil war.

Stories for November 2014

Friday, November 28

Thursday, November 27

Wednesday, November 26

Tuesday, November 25

Monday, November 24

Saturday, November 22

Friday, November 21

Thursday, November 20

Wednesday, November 19

Tuesday, November 18

Monday, November 17

Saturday, November 15

Friday, November 14

Thursday, November 13