Tuesday, July 31
Trump Administration Considering Tax Break on Capital Gains
The Trump administration is studying the idea of implementing a big tax break for wealthy Americans by reducing the taxes levied on capital gains, but no decision has been made yet on whether to proceed.
OPINION: ICE Policies Hurt Our Communities Beyond the Border
The cavalier attitude with which ICE conducts operations should be a cause of concern for us all.
Immigration Officials Defend Handling of Family Separations
Top federal immigration officials went before Congress Tuesday to defend their handling of President Donald Trump's now-abandoned policy of separating migrant children from their families, saying they keep records of children in their custody.
Drive to Get Mississippi Medical Marijuana on 2020 Ballot
The woman whose daughter's name is on Mississippi's marijuana oil law has begun a drive for a state constitutional amendment allowing medical marijuana use.
Jackson Budget Audit Submitted 22 Days Late Due to Errors Dating to 2001
The comprehensive annual finance report, or CAFR, was due on June 30, but the City of Jackson sent it to the State of Mississippi on July 22—22 days after it was due, financial consultant Michelle Thomas said at a press conference on July 30.
James Vinson
SoilTech Consultants, Inc., a Ridgeland-based geotechnical engineering firm, hired James Vinson as the firm's practice leader on Thursday, July 19. Vinson then moved to Jackson from Knoxville, Tenn., to start his new position.
Yappy Hour at Char, Fair Trade Green Moving and UnitedHealthcare Laptop Donation
Char Restaurant will celebrate the opening of its new outdoor patio with an event called "Yappy Hour" on Saturday, Aug. 18, from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Two Compete for Mississippi House Seat Formerly Held by Gipson
Two Republicans are competing in a runoff election for a seat in the Mississippi House.
Monday, July 30
Espy: Trump Tariffs Hurt Mississippi Farmers; Opponents Dodge Issue
President Donald Trump's tariffs on China are hurting Mississippi farmers, Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Mike Espy said in a press conference at the Mississippi Agriculture and Forestry Museum on Friday.
Trump Threatens Government Shutdown Over Border Security
Republicans anxious about keeping control of Congress think it's a bad idea, but President Donald Trump still says he's willing to close the government over border security issues, including money he wants to build a promised U.S.-Mexico border wall.
Rep. John Lewis
U.S. Rep. John Lewis, the 78-year-old civil rights icon and veteran congressman from Georgia, was released from the hospital Sunday evening after his weekend admission for an undisclosed reason.
Caesars Launching Sports Betting in New Jersey, Mississippi
Two Atlantic City casinos owned by Caesars Entertainment will start taking sports bets this week, and another two in Mississippi will do so in mid-August.
10 Local Stories of the Week
There's never a slow news week in Jackson, Miss., and last week was no exception. Here are the local stories JFP reporters brought you in case you missed them.
Friday, July 27
beheard.world
On Tuesday, Aug. 7, performance troupe beheard.world will perform in Jackson for its first show on a five-city tour through cities along the Great Migration Trail, or the path of 4 million African Americans who fled the South in the 1900s in search of social and economic justice.
Trump Open to Moscow Visit if Putin Formally Invites Him
President Donald Trump is open to visiting Moscow if formally invited by Russian President Vladimir Putin, the White House said Friday.
DuBard Dyslexia Symposium, Universities Studying Slavery Symposium and MSU Meteorological Award
The DuBard School for Language Disorders at The University of Southern Mississippi will host the 22nd annual DuBard Symposium Sept. 13-14 at the Thad Cochran Center on the Hattiesburg campus.
OPINION: JPS: More Than A School Building
We all aspire to make a difference in our schools and communities by having more opportunities to participate in activities that support our growth and development.
OPINION: Breastfeeding Key to Improving Child and Maternal Health in Mississippi
If we want to improve the health outcome of babies and increase the number of those that reach their first birthday and beyond, we must center our efforts on removing systemic barriers to breastfeeding.
Thursday, July 26
OPINION: Reconnecting to Food
Because food has such a presence in our lives, it helps shape our experience in different settings
Tate Reeves, Transport Director Differ Over Highway Communication
Mississippi Lt. Gov. Tate Reeves said Thursday that a state agency director is backing off of accusations that Reeves and his staff used political pressure to push a highway project near his home.
JPS Bond Should Pass, Working Together Jackson Says
Working Together Jackson pledged to bring at least 2,000 "yes" votes to Jackson Public School's bond referendum on Aug. 7.
Republican Women Honored for Work Against Human Trafficking in State
Republican Mississippi women are helping to help end human sex trafficking and help its victims, a prominent Jackson-area domestic-violence organization said Monday.
Billy Brewer
Former University of Mississippi head football coach Homer Ervin "Billy" Brewer lived long enough to find out he would be inducted into the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame this year. Unfortunately, he died May 12, only two months before the Hall of Fame intended to honor him.
Trump: US to Impose Sanctions on Turkey Over Detained Pastor
President Donald Trump says the United States will impose sanctions on NATO ally Turkey over a detained American pastor held on terror and espionage charges.
White House Bars CNN Correspondent from Open Press Event
A CNN correspondent was barred from attending an open press event at the White House on Wednesday because of questions she asked President Donald Trump earlier in the day.
Gov. Bryant Approves Takeover of Mississippi School District
Gov. Phil Bryant on Wednesday approved a takeover by the state Department of Education of a rural eastern Mississippi school district experiencing financial and other problems.
11 House Republicans Seek Impeachment of DOJ's Rosenstein
A group of 11 House conservatives introduced articles of impeachment against Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein, the Justice Department official who oversees special counsel Robert Mueller's Russia investigation.
Wednesday, July 25
US Won't Recognize Crimea Annexation; Trump-Putin II Delayed
President Donald Trump's top national security aides sought to fend off accusations the president is too soft on Russia by declaring Wednesday that the U.S. will never recognize the annexation of Crimea and by postponing a second proposed summit between Trump and Russian leader Vladimir Putin.
One Lake's 'Controlled Meeting' a 'Propaganda Machine' To Some Attendees
The potential for outrage, raised voices and loud arguments at the One Lake Public Meeting was never recognized. But, One Lake project members were prepared for the possibility for pushback against their plan to create redevelop a section of the Pearl River through Jackson, while promising flood-control benefits.
Reinventing the Release Plan
Without the financial support and connections of a record label, getting the word out about a new recording project is no easy task. We at the JFP decided to put together some tips for local artists and bands looking to maximize the reach of their next new release.
Taco Reinvention
I'm always looking for ways to reinvent and elevate some of my favorites. These breakfast taco boats are perfect for people of all ages, and versatile enough for any meal of the day.
Refill Café Hoping to Open New Doors for Jackson Community
In the early afternoon on a Friday, Jordan Butler sat outside at Cups in Fondren, sipping on a coffee after spending the day working out the kinks of a grant application for Refill Cafe, a nonprofit workforce development cafe that will occupy the space that once housed Koinonia Coffee House just west of downtown.
Mississippi’s Giant Literary Party
This year's fourth annual Mississippi Book Festival is bringing more authors and books to children by reaching past the Jackson area.
Inking Along
Art supplies do not always have to be pricey. Did you know you can make alcohol ink with just a few household supplies and things you probably have on hand? Here's how.
The Future of Foster Care in Mississippi
Foster care in Mississippi is facing a financial crisis. The budget for the 2019 fiscal year is $23 million short, stretching an already-thin budget even further.
EDITOR'S NOTE: Of Love, Ego and Believing in All of Our Children
The Mississippi Youth Media Project, Donna Ladd's passion project with its own newsroom next door to the Jackson Free Press, invites young people of various backgrounds, and doesn't shy away from accepting young people who have struggled in school or the community.
Water is Buried Beneath Martian Landscape, Study Says
A huge lake of salty water appears to be buried deep in Mars, raising the possibility of finding life on the red planet.
Tekeydra Lee
Tekeydra Lee was in California, "living her best life," she says, when she got a phone call from her father, Tim C. Lee, who is an alumnus of Jackson State University.
Bond Supporters: ‘We’re Hoping for Change’
Teachers, students and Jackson Public Schools board members filled the community center in Jackson on July 17 for a people's assembly in support of the upcoming $65-million bond referendum.
Planned Parenthood Braces for Battle
Federal funds cannot pay for abortions, but anti-abortion rights advocates and lawmakers object to funding Planned Parenthood at all with federal and state dollars due to the fact that they still offer abortions.
Tuesday, July 24
OPINION: The Big Flood of the Pearl, Not If, but When
So the big question is, “Will the ‘One Lake’ project be the salvation for Jackson in the event of a massive flood like the Easter Flood of 1979?” Not likely.
Ivanka Trump is Shutting Down Her Clothing Company
Ivanka Trump is shutting down her clothing company and laying off 18 employees after some stores dropped her line and she decided ethics restrictions were holding back its ability to grow.
Ryan Says Trump Just "Trolling" on Threat to Pull Clearances
Republican House Speaker Paul Ryan is dismissing President Donald Trump's threat to revoke the security clearances of six former top national security and intelligence officials who have been critical of his administration.
Mississippi Sues Student Loan Processing Company
Mississippi Attorney General Jim Hood is suing the nation's largest student loan processor, saying Delaware-based Navient Corp. has pushed "risky and expensive" loans.
Mayor Lumumba in New York City for Leadership Training
Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba is going back to school this summer to study leadership and management practices, as one of 40 mayors chosen for an intensive education program with the Bloomberg Harvard City Leadership Initiative.
Task Force Draft: Release Names in Officer-involved Shootings Within 48 Hours
The Officer ID Task Force met Monday night to discuss a draft of a policy to identify Jackson police officers who shoot people. The draft policy says the City will release the names the officers who discharge their guns within 48 hours.
Trump Plans Emergency Aid to Farmers Affected by His Tariffs
The U.S. readied a plan Tuesday to send billions in emergency aid to farmers who have been hurt by President Donald Trump's trade disputes with China and other American trading partners.
Board Recommends Cosby be Found a Sexually Violent Predator
Bill Cosby should be classified as a sexually violent predator, according to an evaluation by Pennsylvania's Sexual Offenders Assessment Board.
Soul Wired in Fondren, Yoga in the Park and Partners Worldwide
Stacey “Soul” Winters, owner of Soul Wired Café, officially reopened her business in Fondren on June 1 following a soft opening in March.
Senator Raises More Than Challengers in Mississippi Race
An appointed U.S. senator in Mississippi is raising more money so far than her challengers in a special election, backed by contributions from colleagues including Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky.
Elvis Presley
Elvis Presley's Mississippi hometown could create a tourism partnership with the German city where he lived while serving in the U.S. Army.
Monday, July 23
Trump Considering Revoking 6 Ex-Obama Officials' Clearance
President Donald Trump is considering revoking the security clearances of six former Obama-era officials who have been critical of his administration, a move that opponents say would be an unprecedented politicization of the clearance process.
Congress Street Undergoing Overhaul Near City Hall, Due to AARP Grant
A grant from nonprofit AARP will help transform a stretch of Congress Street into a more pedestrian-friendly area, a press release from the City of Jackson says.
James Meredith, Man Who Integrated Ole Miss, Chosen for Alumni Hall of Fame
James Meredith of Jackson is one of five people being inducted into the Ole Miss alumni hall of fame during homecoming in October. The list of honorees also includes longtime U.S. Sen. Thad Cochran of Oxford, who retired in April.
Dorothy Stewart Samuel
Dorothy Stewart Samuel, who died at the age of 80 on Friday, July 6, was a visionary, educator and activist, daughter Angela Stewart says.
Analysis: Gambling Not a Clear-Cut State Budget Booster
Will Mississippi take a chance on a lottery? It's a big question lawmakers could answer if Republican Gov. Phil Bryant calls them into special session in the next few weeks.
White House Blames Iran for War of Words with Trump
The White House on Monday blamed Iranian President Hassan Rouhani for inciting a war of words with President Donald Trump, who warned that verbal threats could escalate into military conflict with the U.S.
Saturday, July 21
Cory Booker: U.S. Senate Hopeful Mike Espy Is South's Rising Star
"That is the star that I see rising in the South," U.S. Sen. Cory Booker said of former U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Mike Espy. "That is the hope that this nation must have in Washington, D.C. And God willing, the people of Mississippi willing, we will have Mike Espy as the next United States senator."
Friday, July 20
The City of Jackson May Win $1 Million to Fund Public Art
The City of Jackson could win $1 million to fund public-art installations from Bloomberg Philanthropies Public Art Challenge.
New Scholarship at MSU, USM Eagle Fanfare and Colleges of Distinction
Mississippi State University recently announced that alumnus Charles E. Menifield has established a new annual scholarship with the university's College of Arts and Sciences.
New York Times: Trump Was Recorded Talking of Paying Playboy Model
President Donald Trump's former personal lawyer secretly recorded Trump discussing payments to a former Playboy model who said she had an affair with him, The New York Times reported Friday.
NFL, NFLPA Freeze Anthem Rules Amid Backlash to Miami Policy
The NFL's two-month old national anthem policy is on hold.
Merkel: German Government is Solid Despite Fight Over Migration
Chancellor Angela Merkel acknowledged Friday that a bitter fight over migrant policy hurt Germans' confidence in her government, but said she never thought of quitting and insisted that her administration is doing solid work.
Putin, Trump Talked About a Referendum for Eastern Ukraine
Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump discussed the possibility of a referendum in separatist-leaning eastern Ukraine during their Helsinki summit, Russia's ambassador to the U.S. said Friday.
Thursday, July 19
City Violated Water Treatment Procedure, Still Safe to Drink
The City of Jackson violated technical policies in treating water at the O.B Curtis Water Treatment Plant. It affects all water customers, except those on the well system.
Sessions-Backed Anti-Violence Grant Draws City Council Approval
Without discussion, the Jackson City Council gave Mayor Chokwe A. Lumumba and the Jackson Police Department permission at the July 17 meeting to apply for a grant through Project Safe Neighborhoods—the Jeff Sessions-backed umbrella over a federal-state-local Project EJECT policing strategy already in place.
Zuckerberg Clarifies Stance on Policy for Holocaust Deniers
Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg is clarifying his stance pertaining to Holocaust deniers after getting some blowback on social media.
P.J. Simmons
If the Alcorn State University Braves want to win a fifth-straight division title, senior running back P.J. Simmons will have to live up to his lofty new title as this year's SWAC Preseason Offensive Player of the Year.
In the Battle for Twenty-First Century Fox, Comcast Blinks
In a battle among media giants for control of Twenty-First Century Fox's entertainment business, Comcast has blinked. The cable and media company said Thursday that it is dropping its bid, instead focusing on its pursuit of the European pay-TV operator Sky.
Hood Investigates Road Project Near Reeves' Subdivision
The Mississippi attorney general said Wednesday he's investigating a $2 million road that was planned to connect a suburban Jackson shopping center to two gated neighborhoods, including one where the lieutenant governor lives.
With Acid Problems, Jackson Renews Drinking Water Warnings
The mayor of Mississippi's largest city on Wednesday renewed longstanding warnings about the city's drinking water, saying the city still isn't maintaining the chemical balance needed to prevent lead and copper pipes from corroding.
Wednesday, July 18
OPINION: A Pearl of Great Price: The Value of a Flowing Pearl River in Jackson
For fish and turtle species in flowing river habitats, if something happens to their environment—like a dam turning a flowing river into a stagnant lake—they will likely be lost over time.
JSU to Analyze Gun, Gang Crimes in Jackson
The Jackson City Council voted unanimously on Tuesday, July 17, to approve a memorandum of understanding between Jackson State University and the Jackson Police Department so JSU can do research and analysis on crime data with the intention of reducing gun-related crimes.
Angie Smith Brewer
Jackson-based interior design and planning firm Dean and Dean/Associates Architects named Angie Smith Brewer as the firm's director of marketing and business development on June 18.
Missouri Appeal Could Delay Mississippi Death Penalty Case
A Missouri appeal over whether lethal injection would violate the Constitution's ban on cruel and unusual punishment could delay a Mississippi case over similar issues.
APNewsBreak: Twitter Suspended 58 Million Accounts in 4Q
Twitter suspended at least 58 million user accounts in the final three months of 2017, according to data obtained by The Associated Press. The figure highlights the company's newly aggressive stance against malicious or suspicious accounts in the wake of Russian disinformation efforts during the 2016 U.S. presidential campaign.
Ex-FBI Chief Comey Urges Voters to Support Democrats in Fall
James Comey, the FBI director who was fired last year by President Donald Trump, is urging voters to support Democrats in November's midterm elections.
EU Fines Google a Record $5 Billion Over Mobile Practices
The European Union fined Google a record $5 billion Wednesday for forcing cellphone makers that use the company's hugely popular Android operating system to install Google apps.
A Day After Back-Tracking, Trump Defends Summit Performance
Taking to Twitter early Wednesday, President Donald Trump defended anew his much-criticized performance at the Helsinki summit, promising "big results" from better relations with Russia and hitting back at "haters."
Tuesday, July 17
MGM Sues Vegas Mass Shooting Victims, Argues it Isn't Liable
MGM Resorts International has sued hundreds of victims of the deadliest mass shooting in modern U.S. history in a bid to avoid liability for the gunfire that rained down from its Mandalay Bay casino-resort in Las Vegas.
Domino's Filling Potholes in Jackson Through $5,000 'Paving for Pizza' Grant
The Jackson City Council is expected to vote tonight to accept a $5,000 donation from Domino's for road repairs.
Zea Rotisserie & Bar, Rainbow Community Meeting and Hollywood Feed Flowood
Zea Rotisserie & Bar, a New Orleans-based restaurant chain specializing in Southern cuisine as well as rotisserie and grilled food, plans to open its first location outside of Louisiana in Renaissance at Colony Park in Ridgeland around July 2019.
Al Rankins Jr.
Al Rankins Jr., Mississippi's new commissioner of higher education, is planning a listening tour to meet with students, faculty, staff and others.
Obama Gives Trump Sharp Rebuke in Mandela Address on Values
Without ever mentioning President Donald Trump by name, former U.S. President Barack Obama on Tuesday took aim at "strongman politics" in his highest-profile speech since leaving office, urging people around the world to respect human rights and other values now under threat in an impassioned address marking the 100th anniversary of anti-apartheid leader Nelson Mandela's birth.
Shad White Takes Oath as New State Auditor in Mississippi
Republican Shad White was sworn in Tuesday as Mississippi's new state auditor, and in a brief speech he pledged to protect taxpayers' money.
Monday, July 16
Children Graduate from JPD Citizens' Academy
More than 20 children between the ages of 7 and 12 graduated from the Jackson Youth Citizen's Police Academy on Friday, July 13.
Frontier Airlines Coming to Jackson, Direct Flights to Denver, Orlando
Frontier, the budget airline that promises to bring its customers "Low Fares Done Right," descended upon Jackson today to announce direct flights to Denver and Orlando. It will begin in October but tickets are available for purchase right away.
Judge Temporarily Halts Deportation of Reunified Families
A federal judge on Monday ordered a temporary halt to any deportations of reunited families who were separated by the Trump administration after crossing the southwest border.
Emmett Till
A 2017 book that revealed lies by a key figure in the Emmett Till case has prompted the U.S government to renew its investigation into the brutal 1955 slaying, a federal official said recently.
With Flags, Song, Pride, French Celebrate Unifying Victory
France's 4-2 win over Croatia in the World Cup final in Moscow on Sunday marked the second time in 20 years that France has won the World Cup, and came at a time when the people feel needy.
10 Local Stories of the Week
There's never a slow news week in Jackson, Miss., and last week was no exception. Here are the local stories JFP reporters brought you in case you missed them.
Friday, July 13
Mississippi Updating Voter Registration Deadline for Runoffs
Mississippi is updating a voter registration deadline to meet a requirement of a 1993 federal law.
Black Votes Not as Strong as White Ones in Legislative District, Lawsuit Says
African American votes do not hold the same weight as white votes in Mississippi's 22nd District, a new lawsuit alleges. State Senate District 22 includes part of Cleveland, Yazoo City, Madison and Canton.
JSU Substance Prevention Grant, Eaglepalooza in Hattiesburg and MSU Rural Physicians Scholarships
Mississippi State University presented $30,000 scholarships to six current students and three graduates on Thursday, July 12, as part of the Mississippi Rural Physicians Scholarship Program.
Maxine Greenleaf
Maxine Greenleaf, executive director of communications and marketing at Jackson State University, became president of the College Public Relations Association of Mississippi for 2018 to 2019 starting on July 1.
Trump: Relations With May 'Strong' After Bombshell Interview
In a fresh bout of diplomatic whiplash, President Donald Trump denied Friday he had criticized Prime Minister Theresa May and declared the U.S.-U.K. relationship "the highest level of special"—not long after lobbing thunderous broadsides against her.
Agency Watchdog Slams Ex-HHS Chief Price on Costly Travel
The government wasted at least $341,000 on travel by ousted Health and Human Services Secretary Tom Price, including booking charter flights without considering cheaper scheduled airlines, an agency watchdog said Friday.
Thursday, July 12
States With Laws Still on the Books That Would Ban Abortion
Four states—Louisiana, Mississippi, North Dakota and South Dakota—already have laws designed to prohibit most abortions if the Roe ruling were overturned.
Appointed US Senator in Mississippi Reports Raising $1.6M
An appointed U.S. senator in Mississippi says she has raised more than $1.6 million in campaign cash. Republican Cindy-Hyde Smith's campaign released the information Thursday, days ahead of candidates' deadline to report April-through-June fundraising.
Lumumba Disputes Interlocal Claims, Vows to Speed Process
In efforts to put an end to rumors that Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba had been slowing down interlocal agreements between the City and the Hinds County Board of Supervisors, the mayor's office hosted a press conference at City Hall on Wednesday, July 11, where it announced a new committee to iron out this process moving forward.
Ozzie Albies
Four Atlanta Braves have been named to the 2018 All-Star Game, including former Mississippi Braves star Ozhaino "Ozzie" Albies, who made the National League team as a reserve second baseman.
FLEET: Inspiring Jackson’s Creative Professionals
“The only thing that separates an artist and a creative professional is that you get paid for what you do, and if you want to get better, you can come, look and see what it looks like to be a creative professional."
JPS Needs Help Filling a Bus with School Supplies for Students
Jackson Public Schools start Wednesday, Aug. 8, and JPS organized a "Stuff the Bus" campaign to provide students with the supplies they need.
Reeves Says He's Not to Blame for Planned Road Near His Home
Lt. Gov. Tate Reeves said Wednesday that he did not pressure the Mississippi Department of Transportation to build a $2 million road near his gated neighborhood.
Local List: Funmi “Queen” Franklin
Funmi "Queen" Franklin who owns business incubator Kundi Compound with her husband, Brad "Kamikaze" Franklin, has carved a space for herself in the entrepreneurship community. Here are her top 11 favorite places in Jackson.
Trump's Claim That NATO Will Boost Defense Spending Disputed
In a chaotic 28 hours at NATO, President Donald Trump disparaged longtime allies, cast doubt on his commitment to the mutual-defense organization and sent the 29-member pact into frenzied emergency session.
Papa John's Says Founder Resigned as Chairman of the Board
Papa John's founder John Schnatter has resigned as chairman of the board. The company made the announcement late Wednesday, hours after Schnatter apologized for using a racial slur during a conference call in May.
Wednesday, July 11
A Salty Kind of Relaxation
Soul Synergy Center's salt cave is not a cave in the normal sense. It's a small room at the center of the building meant to simulate a real salt cave.
Malaco’s Gospel Milestone
Darrell Luster, a native of Durham, N.C., has held his current position at Malaco Music Group for about six years, but his connection to the Jackson record label began with him as a fan.
Foodie Facts
Food can be a great equalizer, but it can also be a great divider. Recently, porch.com surveyed 1,000 people on their food preferences. Here are some of the findings.
Shining Neon Lights
The Mississippi Children's Museum will host its fifth annual Neon Night on Saturday, July 14, from 8 p.m. to midnight. The summer fundraiser for the event is open to visitors age 21 and up.
Of History and Craftsmanship
Over the 40 years since its founding, the Craftsmen's Guild of Mississippi has grown from just a few craftspeople to 359 members, 80 percent of which reside in Mississippi, and the members specialize in everything from wood turning to clay pottery to iron works.
OPINION: Trump Administration Implicit or Explicit in the Trafficking and Slavery of Immigrant Children?
Ask yourself, “Why are these children being moved, and why are they being moved to specific locations so far away from the border and their parents?”
Mississippi Immigrants: Organize Against ‘Atrocities’
"Get out of our country, you don't belong!" When Melinda Medina hears those words, she feels sad for the person targeting her as a Hispanic woman who descends from a Mexican family.
The Antar Era: 365 Days of Building a ‘Radical’ Foundation
Jackson's youngest mayor, now 35, assumed his official duties on July 3, 2017, and since then, he has been on a determined-but-rocky mission, as the world looks on.
OPINION: Mississippi Poor People’s Campaign, About More Than Poverty
Some Jacksonians may not have been familiar with the Poor People's Campaign before a group of protestors burned the state flag in front of the Governor's Mansion on Monday, June 25, while roaring, "No more hate in our state."
EDITOR'S NOTE: Pride, from Detroit to Jackson
Jackson needs people who are willing to do the hard work—to attend city council meetings to see what's happening, to push back when the city's government isn't sticking to their word, to get to know the people in the city, to make Jackson that much more beautiful.
Reimagining 9 Acres Downtown
If downtown Jackson were a person, she would be an upstanding woman with a lot of scars, living in the shadows of painful memories.
Richard Miles
Richard Miles, medical director of Merit Health Central's emergency department and owner of Hops & Habanas, got his start as a business owner due to a medical problem.
Trump Claims Germany 'Totally Controlled' by Russia
In a combative start to his NATO visit, President Donald Trump asserted Wednesday that a pipeline project has made Germany "totally controlled" by and "captive to Russia" and blasted allies' defense spending, opening what was expected to be a fraught summit with a list of grievances involving American allies.
Border Protection Says NYC Mayor Crossed Border Illegally
New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio and his security detail violated both Mexican and U.S. immigration laws by crossing the border on foot during a visit near El Paso, Texas, U.S. Customs and Border Protection alleges in a letter obtained by The Associated Press.
Tuesday, July 10
Deborah Hunter
Deborah Hunter, a Ridgeland resident and self-taught chef, is coming to Lemuria Books on Saturday, July 14, to hold a book signing for her new cookbook, “My Delicious Mississippi Life: Stories and Recipes from My Heart to Yours.”
Help Jackson Stuff a Truck with School Supplies for JPS Students
With Jackson Public Schools starting in less than a month, the City started a campaign to equip students with supplies they'll need.
Rainbow Co-op Closing, Owners of Froogel's Buy McDade's and SBA Open House
The Rainbow Co-op Board of Directors, which voted to seek Chapter 11 reorganization protection in March, has now decided to close the grocery, which has been open since 1980.
Five in Special Election to Succeed Gipson in Mississippi House
Five candidates are competing in a special election to fill a seat in the Mississippi House. Polls are open until 7 p.m. Tuesday in District 77 in parts of Rankin and Simpson counties. If a runoff is needed, it will be July 31.
Starbucks, Citing Ocean Threat, is Ditching Plastic Straws
Starbucks will eliminate plastic straws from all of its locations within two years, the coffee chain announced Monday, becoming the largest food and beverage company to do so as calls for businesses and cities to cut waste grow louder.
Trump Pardons Ranchers in Case That Inspired 2016 Occupation
President Donald Trump has pardoned two ranchers whose case sparked the armed occupation of a national wildlife refuge in Oregon.
Judge Denies US Claim on 2 of 3 California Immigration Laws
A judge on Monday dismissed the federal government's claim that U.S. law trumps two California laws intended to protect immigrants who are in the country illegally, affirming his ruling last week that California was within its rights to pass two of its three so-called sanctuary laws.
Dozens of Immigrant Children Will be Reunited With Parents
Dozens of immigrant children under the age of 5 will be released from government custody and reunited with their parents Tuesday after being separated at the border under President Donald Trump's zero-tolerance immigration policy.
Lawsuit: Mississippi Legislative District Dilutes Black Vote
A state Senate district in Mississippi dilutes black voting power and should be redrawn, three African-American plaintiffs say in a federal lawsuit filed Monday.
Ex-Broker Gets 6 Months in Prison for Paying Prison Chief
A federal judge has sentenced a former insurance broker to six months in prison for helping former Mississippi Corrections Commissioner Christopher Epps evade taxes.
Monday, July 9
OPINION: The End of the Eastland Machine
Like his mentor, Eastland, whose long stretch of power included a statewide network of lieutenants, cronies, operatives and ward-heelers who could make or break an upcoming politician’s career, Brad Dye came out of a different era—one with some striking contrasts to today’s politics.
State Argues Against Receivership for Mississippi Foster Care
The State of Mississippi claims the quality of foster care is improving here despite a legal filing saying it is still not complying with court-ordered regulations. A federal judge set requirements for the State as part of the "Olivia Y" lawsuit.
Shad White
Mississippi Gov. Phil Bryant is appointing Mississippi Justice Institute director Shad White as the new state auditor to serve the rest of departing auditor Stacey Pickering's four-year auditor's term, which ends in January 2020.
ACLU: Less Than Half of Child Reunions Will Meet Deadline
The American Civil Liberties Union said it appears the Trump administration will miss a court-ordered deadline to reunite young children who were separated at the border with their parents in more than half of the cases.
After Talks, North Korea Accuses US of 'Gangster-Like' Demands
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has delivered a dose of harsh reality to Donald Trump, bashing hopes for a quick denuclearization deal in a pointed rebuke to the president's top envoy while accusing the U.S. of making "gangster-like" demands.
Anti-Violence Protesters Shut Down Part of Chicago Freeway
Thousands of anti-violence protesters marched along a Chicago interstate on Saturday, shutting down traffic to draw attention to the gun violence that's claimed hundreds of lives in some of the city's poorest neighborhoods and pressure public officials to do more to stop 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.
Friday, July 6
OPINION: Independence Week and the Delusion of Freedom
“The delusion of freedom is far more dangerous, Than any jail cell or cramped cages” —G.Be
Bryant Still Plans Special Session on Transportation Money
Gov. Phil Bryant says he's looking at calling Mississippi lawmakers back for a special session in August to earmark money for transportation.
Early College Coming to Jackson Public Schools
Freshmen at Jackson Public Schools now have the opportunity to graduate from high school with an associate's degree at no cost to them. JPS partnered with Tougaloo College to offer Early College High School to 49 freshmen.
UMMC/Kyruus Partnership, Millsaps NCAA Swim Program and USM Genetic Editing Forum
The University of Mississippi Medical Center recently announced it will be integrating a new provider-search system from health-focused internet technology company, Kyruus.
Billy Kinard
Former University of Mississippi football coach and star athlete Billy Kinard died on June 30, 2018, at the age of 84 in his home at Fort Payne, Ala., after an extended illness.
Deadline to Reunite Immigrant Families Rapidly Approaching
A June 26 court order by a federal judge set a hard deadline to reunite families separated at the U.S. border with Mexico, and that deadline is fast approaching.
Thursday, July 5
Scandal-Plagued EPA Administrator Pruitt Resigns
Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Scott Pruitt resigned Thursday amid ethics investigations of outsized security spending, first-class flights and a sweetheart condo lease.
Mississippi Moves Up to 48th for Child Well-being, But Highest Poverty Rate
For the first time since 1991, Mississippi ranked higher than 49th or 50th in the Annie E. Casey Foundation's annual Kids Count report that measures child well-being across economics, education, health, and family and community.
Sen. Hyde-Smith: Tighten Security at US Border With Mexico
Cindy Hyde-Smith, a Republican U.S. senator from Mississippi, says she wants to strengthen the nation's border with Mexico.
Maximus Wright, ‘Lola’ and the Future of Local Film
Maximus Wright’s entry into the entertainment world began with a question: Why can’t Mississippi be a destination for film and TV? About six years ago, his daughter, Jaime Wright, approached him and said she wanted to begin trying out for parts in Disney productions. To Jaime, then 14 years old, that meant eventually moving away from their home state.
Protester's Climb Shuts Down Statue of Liberty on July 4
A protest against U.S. immigration policy forced the evacuation of the Statue of Liberty on the Fourth of July, with a group unfurling a banner from the pedestal and a woman holding police at bay for hours after she climbed the base and sat by the statue's robes.
Trump Pressed Aides on Venezuela Invasion, US Official Says
As a meeting last August in the Oval Office to discuss sanctions on Venezuela was concluding, President Donald Trump turned to his top aides and asked an unsettling question: With a fast unraveling Venezuela threatening regional security, why can't the U.S. just simply invade the troubled country?
Tuesday, July 3
Reduced Tuition to Strayer University Available for City Employees
Reduced tuition to Strayer University is now available for City of Jackson employees and immediate family members with a new partnership.
Ice Cream Safari at the Jackson Zoo, Nandy's Candy Award and The Country Squire Moving
The Jackson Zoo will host its 24th annual Bluebell Ice Cream Safari fundraiser on Saturday, July 14, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Chris Moore Talks Comedy and Terror in 'Triggered'
Jackson filmmaker Chris Moore's latest movie, "Triggered," came from pairing an old idea with some new inspiration.
Trump to Rescind Obama-Era Guidance on Affirmative Action
The Trump administration is moving to rescind Obama-era guidance that encouraged schools to take a person's race into account to encourage diversity in admissions, a U.S. official said Tuesday.
Monday, July 2
Harvey Weinstein Accused of Forcible Sex Act by a Third Woman
Harvey Weinstein was charged Monday with a sex crime against a third woman, as New York prosecutors continue building cases against the former Hollywood studio boss whose downfall ushered in the #MeToo movement.
Sara Richardson Thomas
A Democrat from the Mississippi Delta is leaving the state House of Representatives. Rep. Sara Richardson Thomas of Indianola says her resignation takes effect Saturday, the last day of the state budget year.
Project EJECT 'Prevention Piece' Begins at Local Boys and Girls Clubs
Assistant U.S. Attorney Candace Mayberry delivered a presentation to middle and high schoolers at the Boys and Girls Club on Raymond Road on June 27 and had them take a pledge against gun violence.
Board: New JPS Superintendent Appointed by Start of School Year
Jackson Public Schools and students should have a new superintendent before the first day of school on Aug. 8, Board of Trustees Vice President Ed Sivak told the Jackson Free Press.
Love Fresh Berries? Pick Them
This summer, instead of buying your berries from the market or store, opt for a more memorable outing at a U-Pick farm.
Abortion Rights Could be Litmus Test for High Court Nominee
Republican Sen. Susan Collins, a key vote on President Donald Trump's pick for the Supreme Court, said Sunday she would oppose any nominee she believed would overturn the landmark Roe v. Wade decision that legalized abortion.
Trump's Former Personal Lawyer Says He'll Put Family First
President Donald Trump's longtime personal lawyer, who once said he would do anything to protect the president, told ABC News in an interview released Monday that he now puts "family and country first."
US Plans for Dismantling North Korea Nukes May Face Resistance
The United States has a plan that would lead to the dismantling of North Korea's nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programs in a year, President Donald Trump's national security adviser said, although U.S. intelligence reported signs that Pyongyang doesn't intend to fully give up its arsenal.
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.