Thursday, April 30
State’s COVID-19 Updates Now Include Good News Among the Bad
Good news is now part of the State of Mississippi’s daily reports on COVID-19 cases and deaths. As of 6 p.m. Wednesday, April 19, 3,413 patients known to be infected with the novel coronavirus had recovered, the Mississippi State Department of Health reported today.
Gov. Tate Reeves Vows Fight to Control $1.25 Billion in Federal CARES Act Funds
Gov. Tate Reeves insisted at an afternoon press conference that he possessed the authority, through state statute, to spend the federal relief money intended for COVID-19 recovery. Legislative leadership plans to challenge that authority when they reconvene Friday afternoon.
Legislature Asserts Control Over CARES Act Funds by Early Return
The Mississippi Legislature will reconvene on Monday, “if not sooner,” Senate Minority Leader Derrick Simmons, D-Greenville, told the Jackson Free Press today. The Legislature’s lightning-quick return comes weeks in advance of its anticipated date of May 18.
Mississippi Justice Institute Sues Mayor Lumumba for Open-Carry Order
The Mississippi Justice Institute is pursuing a lawsuit against Jackson Mayor Chokwe A. Lumumba after he signed an executive order temporarily banning open carry of firearms in Jackson.
Marino Casem
A historically black college and university football coaching legend has passed away. On Saturday, April 25, Marino "The Godfather" Casem died at the age of 85 in his home.
US Intel: Coronavirus Not Manmade, Still Studying Lab Theory
U.S. intelligence agencies have concluded that the new coronavirus was “not manmade or genetically modified" but say they are still examining whether the origins of the pandemic trace to contact with infected animals or an accident at a Chinese lab.
Wall Street Pulls Back as Dismal Economic Data Piles Higher
Wall Street pulled back on Thursday after more reports made clear the worldwide devastation the coronavirus outbreak is causing for the economy.
Trump Tweets Raise Speculation About Potential Flynn Pardon
President Donald Trump on Thursday tweeted his support for his former national security adviser Michael Flynn, raising speculation that a pardon may be coming after Flynn's lawyers released internal FBI documents they claim show the FBI was trying to entrap him.
Reeves Backs Lawsuit Protection for Businesses During Virus
Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves said Wednesday that he will ask state lawmakers to provide legal protection for businesses that might be sued if they reopen and customers or employees become ill with COVID-19.
Wednesday, April 29
DIY: A Bespoke Video Tribute This Mother’s Day
This DIY project is a variation on the classic 1950s card shower, updated and modernized for the 21st century. The idea—a slideshow and video tribute—is simple, but it has the ability to bring the warmest of smiles to your mother's face as she basks in the nostalgia of old photos and the kind words from loved ones.
Transforming Ourselves During Times of Crisis
Erica Quinn Thompson, co-founder of the Magnolia Medical Foundation, released a daily devotional titled "The Transforming: 31 Days of Process for Purpose" in January to help others navigate circumstances over which they have no control.
Amanda Joullian Chappell
Travelin' Jane, formed in 2007, performs music that ranges from the '60s to the hits of today presented in "Jane style," which Amanda Joullian Chappell describes as blue-eyed soul with country and rock 'n' roll.
Suit Challenges Mississippi Mayor's Open Gun Ban Amid Virus
A Republican state lawmaker filed a lawsuit Tuesday challenging a Democratic mayor's temporary ban on the open carry of guns in Mississippi's capital city during part of the coronavirus pandemic.
Steak and Eggs Reveillon Freres
As we prepare for Mother's Day, we may not be able to take Mom out for Sunday brunch, but we can always bring brunch to her as thanks for all she has done for us over the years.
OPINION: Face It, White America: Mississippi Is Not Exceptional on Racism
Delineating Mississippi as an exceptional site of racism and hatred the (Confederate) flag represents remains a common rhetorical gesture with an extensive cultural history.
Unemployed Mississippians Still Seeking Answers, Relief
March signaled the beginning of the unemployment crisis in Mississippi, as the first reports of COVID-19 led to the initial rounds of social-distancing guidelines.
Jackson Attorney with COVID: ‘A False Sense of Protection Here’
Since diagnosing its first COVID-19 positive patient on March 11, Mississippi had seen 6,342 cases of the novel coronavirus as reported April 28, when this story went to press. Of those people, 229 have died, the vast majority of whom are black.
EDITOR'S NOTE: ‘Essential’ Truths: Gov. Reeves Is Failing Many Mississippians
There is no such thing as a 'nonessential' Mississippian." When I saw Gov. Tate Reeves' tweet that on April 23, I stared at my screen. As a native Mississippian, I know that our leaders don't feel that way about every Mississippi resident. Their own actions, or lack of them, speak volumes.
Vanessa Dover
During her high school days, Vanessa Dover competed in cross country and track. Today, the mother of two aims to promote physical health in children through the local chapter of the Healthy Kids Running Series she brought to the Jackson area last fall.
Tuesday, April 28
Mayor Lumumba Announces Legal Action Against Canadian National Railway
Monday, Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba announced that the City of Jackson has filed a lawsuit against Canadian National Railway to restore and reopen the underpass at Walter “Dutch” Welch Drive, at the railroad company’s expense.
Easing Up: US and Europe Grapple With When to Reopen Schools
The question of when to reopen schools looms large as European countries and U.S. states draw up plans to restart their battered economies.
Shelter Order Softens on Day of 248 New Cases of COVID-19
On Monday, Reeves recapped his “safer at home” order, replacing his April 1 shelter-in-place order for two weeks. The order went into effect at 8 a.m. on April 27 and lasts until 8 a.m. on May 11.
Mobile COVID-19 Testing Set for Madison, Hinds, Leflore, Clay, Leake and Pike Counties
Residents of Madison, Hinds and Leflore counties and surrounding communities can be tested for COVID-19 this week as the University of Mississippi Medical Center and Mississippi State Department of Health set up one-day, drive-through collection sites.
Northpark’s Got Heart, Fleet Feet Essential Workers Discount and Newk's Pantry
Northpark is hosting a photography-based social media project on behalf of communities practicing social distancing during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Mississippi Approved for Federal Aid from Pearl River Flood
President Donald Trump has approved federal aid for Mississippi counties affected by Pearl River flooding in February.
Mississippi Inmates, Prison Staff Get Masks During Pandemic
All inmates and employees in Mississippi prisons have been given masks to try to slow the spread of the new coronavirus, the state Department of Corrections said Monday.
Monday, April 27
Barr to Prosecutors: Look for Unconstitutional Virus Rules
Attorney General William Barr on Monday ordered federal prosecutors across the U.S. to identify coronavirus-related restrictions from state and local governments “that could be violating the constitutional rights and civil liberties of individual citizens.”
Mississippi Legislators Regroup in Mid-May Amid Pandemic
Mississippi legislators will start meeting again May 18, two months they suspended their session because of the cornavirus pandemic, House and Senate leaders said Monday.
Mayor Lumumba Calls for Repeal of Open Carry Law
In a video released Friday, Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba called for a repeal of Mississippi’s Open Carry Law, citing that the law makes it impossible for police to remove illegal guns from Jackson’s streets and stokes an environment of fear and intimidation.
SBA Application Portal for PPP Applications Reopens
The U.S. Small Business Administration will resume accepting Paycheck Protection Program loan applications on Monday, April 27 at 10:30 AM EDT from approved lenders on behalf of any eligible borrower.
'Reopen Mississippi' Protesters Demand Governor to Reopen State Amid Pandemic
Dozens of cars bearing hand-painted messages and signs, American flags, the Mississippi state flag, the Gadsden “Don’t Tread on Me” flag and other insignia, encircled the Governor’s Mansion in downtown Jackson Saturday, April 25, to demand that Gov. Tate Reeves fully re-open the state amid the COVID-19 global pandemic.
More Than 6,000 COVID-19 Cases in Mississippi as ‘Safer at Home’ Order Kicks In
Mississippi saw 183 official new coronavirus cases and two deaths as of 6 p.m. on Sunday, April 26, bringing the total number of statewide cases to 6,094 and the death count to 229.
Chris Hyche
Sitting at home, current Harlem Globetrotter Chris Hyche is socially distancing himself as he waits for the coronavirus to pass so that he may resume his basketball career. The only exercise Hyche is able to do is running.
Analysis: More Review for Some Pretrial Cases During Virus
The leader of the Mississippi Supreme Court says he will require some judges to more frequently review who is being held in county jails during the coronavirus pandemic.
Mississippi Prepares to Ease Some Coronavirus Restrictions
Some Mississippi shopkeepers will start reopening their retail businesses on Monday as Gov. Tate Reeves begins easing restrictions imposed because of the coronavirus pandemic.
Sunday, April 26
April 26: 193 New COVID-19 Cases, 6 Deaths on Saturday
Another 193 people were diagnosed with COVID-19 in the state on Saturday, with six deaths reported.
Saturday, April 25
April 25: Day After 'Safer at Home' Order, 284 new COVID-19 Cases, 12 Deaths
One day after Gov. Tate Reeves signed his "safer-at-home" executive order designed to reopen some non-essential businesses, the state added another 284 cases of COVID-19 to Mississippi State Department of Health's official tally.
Friday, April 24
City of Jackson Launches Mental Health 'Warmline'
On Friday, April 24, Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba announced the launch of the City’s first-ever Mental Health ‘Warmline’, designed to help citizens cope with the mental toll of self-isolation during the COVID-19 public health crisis.
Governor Tate Reeves Signs 'Safer At Home' Order to Begin Reopening State's Economy
Gov. Tate Reeves signed a new executive order establishing a statewide Safer at Home order for Mississippi to continue protecting public health while beginning the process to safely reopen the state's economy.
Azia’s Picks: Virtual Events Roundup 4/24/20
As the days roll by during this new quarantined way of life, we all still have a desire to feel included and connected to one another. Here is a list of some virtual events I've spotted for you and your families to enjoy while practicing social distancing as we make sacrifices to stay home together.
Factcheck: Gov. Reeves’ South Korea Comparison on MSNBC’s ‘Meet the Press’
Appearing on MSNBC’s “Meet the Press” last night, Gov. Tate Reeves explained to host Chuck Todd what he believes are Mississippi’s successes in emulating the South Korean model, which has so effectively contained the COVID-19 outbreak there.
Yung Jewelz
Rapper Yung Jewelz, aka the Paid Hipster, defines herself as a versatile artist, a rapper you can play on your good and bad days. Whether going to the club or looking for gospel, Jewelz said she has a song for you.
UM Online Summer Programs, JSU Waiving ACT/SAT Requirements and MCCF COVID-19 Grant
The University of Mississippi is providing scholarships and programs for 11th and 12th graders to allow them to try out college classes online in response to postponement and cancellations of its usual summer programs due to the COVID-19 crisis.
Mississippi Governor Says Health Officer is Top Adviser on Virus
Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves said Thursday that he will listen to the state's top public health official more than all other advisers as he considers how to gradually reopen the state's economy during the coronavirus pandemic.
Mississippi City Revises Limit on Drive-Up Church Amid Virus
A Mississippi city facing freedom-of-religion lawsuits and pressure from the U.S. attorney general has revised its policy that banned drive-up church services during the coronavirus pandemic, now saying the services are OK with windows rolled up.
Thursday, April 23
Governor Tate Reeves Signs Executive Order Closing Schools for Academic Year
On Wednesday, April 22, Gov. Tate Reeves signed a new executive order implementing school closures for the rest of the academic year to slow the spread of COVID-19.
MABUS: Moral Failure: The Incredible Cruelty of Refusing to Expand Medicaid
COVID-19 is far more deadly in minority, poor and rural communities, and some of that disparity was avoidable. By failing to expand Medicaid, states like Mississippi left millions with no access to quality and affordable health care.
AG Fitch Backs Away from Releasing More Pretrial Detainees in Wake of COVID-19
Mississippi Attorney General Lynn Fitch is backing away from an effort to release pretrial detainees sooner to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in Mississippi jails, where it is virtually impossible for inmates to practice social distancing.
Kevin Yang
When the first wave of COVID-19 panic buying swept through Starkville about a month ago, there was no run on toilet paper at Asian Foods Market on Highway 12.
Black Women May Be Hardest Hit As COVID-19 Cases Pass 5,000, 201 Deaths
Mississippi now has more than 200 deaths and well over 5,000 cases of COVID-19 as of yesterday, only five days after reaching 4,000.
Governor Tate Reeves Endorses State-Wide Relief Fund
The Community Foundation for Mississippi, working with the Mississippi Commission for Volunteer Service, established the Mississippi Community Disaster Relief and Recovery Fund as an initiative to create a state-wide pooled fund to respond to disasters in Mississippi, including COVID-19.
26 Million Have Sought US Jobless Aid Since Virus Hit
More than 4.4 million laid-off workers applied for U.S. unemployment benefits last week as job cuts escalated across an economy that remains all but shut down, the government said Thursday.
Mississippi Governor Hints at Reopening Some Businesses Next Week
Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves said Wednesday that he expects to take steps next week in a gradual reopening of the state's economy during the coronavirus pandemic. He didn't specify what those will be, but said he's taking advice from public health experts.
Blues Legend Bobby Rush Recovers from Coronavirus Symptoms
Symptoms of the new coronavirus have subsided for Blues legend Bobby Rush, and now he's warning others about the seriousness of COVID-19.
Wednesday, April 22
April 22: COVID-19 Deaths in Mississippi Now at 193, With 4,894 Total Cases
The Mississippi State Department of Health announced 10 additional COVID-19 deaths across Mississippi, bringing the total casualties to 193, as well as 178 cases, for a total of 4,894.
Cathead Comfort & Mercy Hand Sanitizer Available For Purchase
Cathead Distillery announced that its new hand sanitizer, Comfort & Mercy, is now available for purchase online as well as at select retailers across the South.
Social Security and Medicare Funds at Risk Even Before Virus
The financial conditions of the government’s two biggest benefits programs remain shaky, with Medicare projected to become insolvent in six years and Social Security on track to no longer be able to pay full benefits starting in 2035.
Q&A with Dr. Thomas Dobbs on Racial Inequity of COVID-19 in Mississippi
Mississippi State Health Officer Dr. Thomas Dobbs is leading the public-health response to the COVID-19 crisis, directing the State Department of Health and serving as Gov. Tate Reeves’ chief health adviser on the virus and the state’s attempts to stem its spread.
Mississippi Governor: Restarting Economy Won't Be 'Light Switch'
Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves said Tuesday that the state economy will reopen gradually after health officials and others say it's safe to do so during the coronavirus pandemic. He cautioned that life will not immediately return to normal.
Tuesday, April 21
Mississippi Small Businesses at Risk of Permanent Closure, Households Struggle
Approximately 62% of small businesses in Mississippi are at risk of permanently closing within five months as a direct result of the COVID-19 pandemic, a new report from Main Street America found.
Main Street America: 7.5 Million Small Businesses Across the U.S. in Danger of Closing Permanently
A new report published by Main Street America, founded by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, reveals that nearly 7.5 million small businesses across the country are in danger of closing over the next five months as a result of the COVID-19 crisis.
Gov. Reeves Says Virus At ‘Plateau’; State Reports Most Deaths in Single Day
Gov. Tate Reeves described the recent uptick in cases of COVID-19 in Mississippi as a “plateau,” suggesting that Mississippians should expect a continuing trend of high numbers in before new infections level off and decline.
Tougaloo College to Serve as COVID-19 Drive-thru Testing Site
Tougaloo College is serving as a one-day, appointment-only drive-through COVID-19 testing site from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Thursday, April 23, 2020.
Benny Ivey
Benny Ivey, a Jackson native who spent 11 years in prison on drug charges, devoted himself to keeping youth and adults off the path he was once on after his release and rehab in 2009.
AP: Publicly Traded Firms Get $300M in Small-Business Loans
Companies with thousands of employees, past penalties from government investigations and risks of financial failure even before the coronavirus walloped the economy were among those receiving millions of dollars from a relief fund that Congress created to help small businesses through the crisis, an Associated Press investigation found.
Monday, April 20
Feds to Track, Share information on Nursing Home Outbreaks
Calling nursing homes ground zero of the coronavirus crisis, federal officials said Monday they plan to start tracking and publicly sharing information on infections and deaths in such facilities to help spot trends and early signs the virus is spreading in communities.
Mississippi Sees 238 New Cases of COVID-19, More Mobile Testing Sites
Today’s Mississippi COVID-19 case tally included 238 additional Mississippians, down from the previous day’s all-time peak of 300. The Mississippi State Department of Health reported 4,512 total detections of coronavirus in the state since March 11.
Mississippi Gov. Forms Coronavirus Economic Recovery Group
Mississippi's governor has formed a commission of private-sector business leaders to make recommendations on how the state can economically recover from the coronavirus pandemic.
Mississippi Choctaw Chief Has COVID-19, Urges Precautions
The chief of the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians says he has tested positive for COVID-19, the Mississippi Free Press reported on Saturday, and he is urging people to follow advice of health professionals to try to slow the spread of the highly contagious new coronavirus.
Mobile COVID-19 Testing Set for Hinds, Walthall and Kemper Counties
Residents of Hinds, Walthall and Kemper counties and surrounding communities can be tested for COVID-19 this week as the University of Mississippi Medical Center and Mississippi State Department of Health continue efforts to stem virus transmission by setting up one-day, drive-through collection sites.
Sunday, April 19
April 19: MSDH Reports 300 New COVID-19 Cases, Includes Race Demographics
COVID-19 cases reported by MSDH reached their highest level yet on Saturday. MSDH is reporting that of the 159 deaths attributed to COVID-19, 100 of the deceased were black, 57 white, 1 other and 1 under investigation.
Saturday, April 18
April 18: MDHS Reports 181 New COVID-19 Cases, 12 Deaths
Mississippi State Department of Health is reporting 181 new cases of COVID-19 for the period ending Friday, March 17, at 6:00 p.m. Twelve people died on Friday from the virus.
Friday, April 17
Hinds County Extends COVID-19 Emergency, Reduces Jail Population
The Hinds County Board of Supervisors is extending its COVID-19 state of emergency for non-essential employees until May 1, waiving penalties for overdue, late and new license plates, and taking additional steps to prevent the spread of COVID-19 among its employees and detainees in county jails.
Tate Reeves: Shelter in Place Another Week, ‘Union Bosses’ Not Needed
Gov. Tate Reeves extended the shelter-in-place order he issued at the end of March for another week today, while making allowances for limited operations at “non-essential” businesses and opening the state’s beaches and lakes starting Monday.
Boating, Fishing on Barnett Reservoir Resumes Monday
Boating and fishing on Barnett Reservoir will resume on Monday, the Pearl River Valley Water Supply District confirmed after Governor Tate Reeves’ Friday morning press conference related to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Governor Reeves Extends Shelter-In-Place by 7 Days; Enables Safe Sales by “Non-Essential” Businesses
Today, Governor Tate Reeves announced that he is extending the statewide shelter-in-place by 7 days, while providing some ability for “non-essential” businesses to safely make sales. The Governor’s new executive order extends the expiration date of his previous order to Monday, April 27.
Beth Herzig
Beth Herzig, owner of Discount Trophy in Ridgeland, traveled the world before eventually settling down in Mississippi and raising her two daughters, ages 16 and 11, in a quieter life than what she experienced growing up.
Helpline Available to Answer Coronavirus Questions in Over 90 Languages for Families Affected by Alzheimer’s
The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America wants caregivers to know that it has a helpline, staffed entirely by licensed social workers, that can answer questions in English, Spanish, Chinese, French and more than 90 other languages via live chat in light of the COVID-19 crisis.
Thursday, April 16
Mayor Lumumba Extends COVID-19 'Stay-at-Home' until April 30th
Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba issued an executive order on April 16, 2020, continuing his previous order of March 31, 2020 until April 30, 2020.
Hinds, Quitman Counties Set for Saturday Mobile COVID-19 Testing
Residents of Hinds and Quitman counties and surrounding communities can be tested on Saturday, April 18, for COVID-19 as the University of Mississippi Medical Center and Mississippi State Department of Health continue efforts to stem virus transmission by setting up one-day, drive-through collection sites.
Shelter Order Set to Expire Monday; State Reports 3,624 Cases of COVID-19
Mississippi has 264 new cases of COVID-19 today, after 273 yesterday, bringing the statewide total to 3,624 only two days after the state announced its 3,000th case.
Cameron Dantzler
In one week, the sports world will have something real to talk about as the 2020 NFL Draft will take place. The coronavirus has shut down sporting events, but the NFL will hold the 2020 draft as scheduled.
Canopy Children’s Solutions Launches New Solution to Help Local Families in Crisis
Canopy Children’s Solutions’ LINK connects families with state, local and federal community resources for when they are in crisis situations.
Justice Department Takes Church's Side in 1st Amendment Suit
The Justice Department took the rare step on Tuesday of weighing in on the side of a Mississippi Christian church where local officials had tried to stop Holy Week services broadcast to congregants sitting in their cars in the parking lot.
Evidence of Virus' Effect on US Economy Grows More Ominous
Evidence of the coronavirus' devastating impact on the U.S. economy has been steadily emerging, and the signs have grown ominous.
Wednesday, April 15
Governor Tate Reeves Announces COVID-19 Assistance for Homeowners and First Responders
Today, Governor Tate Reeves announced further efforts to support homeowners and first responders who are being stretched thin during the COVID-19 outbreak.
UMMC Begins COVID-19 Clinical Trials
The University of Mississippi Medical Center is moving into a new stage of COVID-19 response: conducting clinical research and trials on how to treat the disease.
DIY: No-Sew Bandana Face Mask
If you are looking to make a face mask at home that you can reuse, but you have little experience in sewing, then this no-sew makeshift face mask may be a good match for you if you happen to have the materials around the house or can easily acquire them.
Five Things to Know about Acacia Clark, Freelance Photographer
Five things to know about Jackson Free Press freelance photographer Acacia Clark.
William Hulbert Jr: JPS Trombonist Becomes a Lion
This year, Callaway High School junior and trombonist William Hulbert Jr. earned a place in the Mississippi Lions All-state Band roster--the first Jackson Public Schools student to do so in 14 years.
Earl Grey, Sweet
If you are a fellow tea lover who also has a bit of a sweet tooth at times, tea-infused cupcakes are easy to make, taste like your favorite blends and leave a pleasant after-taste that makes you feel like you just had a sip from a warm mug.
Charles Rounds: Power APAC Student Rebuild the Future with Art
Charles Rounds, a Jackson Public Schools senior attending Power APAC through Murrah High School, is among just 16 students nationwide to receive the top award, a Gold Medal Portfolio and its accompanying $10,000 scholarship, in the annual Scholastic Art & Writing Awards.
Amazing Teens 2020
While COVID-19 has forced school closures, the Jackson Free Press is still recognizing some of the rising stars of the Jackson metro through our annual Amazing Teens issue.
OPINION: Teenagers, It’s OK to Feel Hurt By What We’ve Lost to COVID-19
"Too often, adults undermine and discredit the hurt feelings of my age group simply because we haven’t lived long enough or worked hard enough to afford to feel the way that we do."
Essential Workers Bearing Weight of COVID-19
Commercial unions are fighting for recognition of their food-service and grocery-store employees as first responders, in the hopes that this will give them priority access to PPE, including masks.
With No Relief In Sight, Jackson Small Business Owners Struggle
The COVID-19 pandemic has hit small businesses, which typically do not have more than two weeks’ worth of working capital funds at any given time, especially hard in recent weeks.
Shannon Alsobrooks
For new parents, a trip to the neonatal intensive care unit for their baby can be a very scary experience. Nurses like Shannon Alsobrooks help make the time less stressful for parents by providing their little ones with the best care possible.
EDITOR'S NOTE: Gov. Tate Reeves Has Failed the COVID-19 Leadership Test
Tate Reeves’ leadership logic says it’s OK to endanger people’s lives to keep churches and guns stores open using a constitutional excuse, but then ignore constitutional precedent on a procedure Mississippi women have the legal right to choose.
Tuesday, April 14
Gov. Tate Reeves Partners with Private Sector to Study Economic Recovery
On Tuesday, April 14, Gov. Tate Reeves announced that he has asked leaders of Mississippi’s business community to chart a course for economic recovery and re-opening Mississippi’s economy.
Gov. Tate Reeves Announces Extended School Closures to Slow the Spread of COVID-19
Today, Governor Tate Reeves announced that schools in Mississippi will remain closed for the rest of the school year to slow the spread of COVID-19.
County Jail Officer Tests Positive for COVID-19
A Hinds County Detention Center corrections officer has tested positive for the novel coronavirus, the Hinds County Sheriff’s Office confirmed Friday.
Payment Protection Program: A Lifeline to Mississippi Small Businesses During COVID-19
Many Mississippi small businesses and their employees are currently wondering how they are going to weather the economic downturn the coronavirus has caused. A new law could help.
State Tops 3,000 COVID-19 Cases and 100 Deaths, More Race Data Soon
Mississippi saw 145 new cases of COVID-19 as of yesterday, bringing the new statewide total to 3,087, only seven days after the 2,000th detection on April 7.
Lenore Loving Prather
Retired Justice Lenore Loving Prather, the first woman to serve as a Mississippi Supreme Court justice, died Saturday at her home in Columbus at the age of 88.
JPS Grab-And-Go Breakfast/Lunch and Dinner Feeding Program
The Jackson Public Schools Child Nutrition team will continue to serve grab-and-go breakfast and lunch meals during school closures through April 17, 2020.
Monday, April 13
April 13: COVID-19 Deaths in Mississippi Climb to 98 with 2,942 Official Cases
Cases of the novel coronavirus in Mississippi stand at 2,942 just after the Easter holiday. The Mississippi State Department of Health announced 161 new cases and two deaths as of 6 p.m. on Sunday, April 12, along with six deaths, bringing the statewide death count to 98.
Nikki McCray-Penson
Mississippi State University hired former Old Dominion women’s basketball coach Nikki McCray-Penson to replace Vic Schaefer as the Bulldogs’ head coach.
Mississippi Nearing 100 Virus Deaths, More Cases Confirmed
Many Mississippi churches held online services Sunday to celebrate Easter and to help people maintain distance from one another to try to slow the spread of the new coronavirus as the state's death toll from COVID-19 approaches 100.
Sunday, April 12
Governor Tate Reeves Declares State of Emergency for Easter Storms
JACKSON — Tonight, Governor Tate Reeves declared a state of emergency to protect the health and safety of Mississippians in response to the severe tornadoes and storms hitting across the state.
Saturday, April 11
April 11 Update: 173 new COVID-19 Cases, 11 Deaths in Mississippi
MDAH today has reported 173 new cases of Coronavirus COVID-19 detected in Mississippi as of 6 p.m. Friday; 11 more deaths have been reported.
OPINION: Abortion is Essential, Especially Now During COVID-19 Crisis
In a disingenuous move, politicians in Mississippi and several other southern states have sought to classify abortion as “non-essential,” attempting to make access difficult if not impossible.
Friday, April 10
Governor Attempts to Ban Mississippi Abortions, Citing Need to Preserve PPE
Gov. Tate Reeves says he is halting abortions in Mississippi to help free up personal protective equipment for hospitals to use as they deal with an escalating number of COVID-19 cases statewide.
Governor Tate Reeves Issues Executive Orders to Protect Healthcare Professionals
Today, Governor Tate Reeves signed two new executive orders to protect healthcare professionals from transmission and liability as they aid in Mississippi's response to the COVID-19 outbreak.
Gov. Reeves Signs Executive Orders for Virtual Meetings and Burn Ban
Today, Governor Tate Reeves announced his new executive orders to suspend in-person gatherings of business shareholder meetings and selection requirements of political parties in an effort to reduce transmission and slow the spread of COVID-19.
Mississippi Children’s Museum COVID-19 Statewide Resources & Response
To help the children of Mississippi navigate the unknowns of the COVID-19 virus and the stress that ensues, MCM invites all children to submit their questions regarding the virus. The deadline for submissions has been extended to April 13.
Weather Prompts Sunday-Only Halt to COVID-19 Testing at State Fairgrounds
COVID-19 testing at the Mississippi State Fairgrounds in Jackson will be suspended on Sunday, April 12, due to inclement weather expected in the metro area and in honor of the Easter holiday.
FACTCHECK: Tate Reeves Blames ‘Statute’ for ‘Confederate Heritage Month’
Gov. Tate Reeves is conflicting a state statute requiring Confederate Memorial Day in late April to his proclamation that the entire month celebrate the Confederacy.
City Receives A+ Bond Rating; $40 Million Bond for Infrastructure Approved
Even as the nation and world continue to plunge deeper into a possible recession in the wake of COVID-19 pandemic, the City of Jackson’s long-term bond rating for general obligation bonds has shown improvements, Mayor Chokwe A. Lumumba announced yesterday.
209 New Cases of COVID-19, 6 New Deaths
Cases of the novel coronavirus in Mississippi are now at 2,469, as Gov. Tate Reeves’ statewide shelter-at-home order nears its midpoint.
Visit Jackson to Feed Healthcare Workers
Visit Jackson will feed healthcare workers through meal deliveries from local restaurants this week in a campaign dubbed "Good Food In Gratitude."
Thursday, April 9
16.8M Americans Thrown Out of Work as Economic Toll Rises
A staggering 16.8 million Americans have been thrown onto the unemployment rolls in just three weeks, underscoring the terrifying speed with which the coronavirus outbreak has brought world economies to their knees.
Community Organizations Unite to Serve Meals to Jackson Families During COVID-19 Crisis
Operation Shoestring, Christ United Methodist Church, and United Way of the Capital Area have partnered to fund the JPS Food Distribution plan for scholars and their families, for the next two weeks, during the COVID-19 crisis.
Keep Jackson Beautiful: Watch Where You Toss Used Wipes and Gloves!
Keep Jackson Beautiful issued an urgent call today for all Jackson residents and visitors to properly dispose of cleaning supplies and personal protective equipment, including used sanitizing wipes, masks, and plastic gloves. These belong in the trash, not on the ground.
'When Is the $600 Coming?': Mississippi Unemployment Questions Answered
As COVID-19 crashes the Mississippi economy and unemployment skyrockets, a lot of people are scared. We know, because you've been sending the Jackson Free Press questions by email, online chat and social media.
Doctor Says Virus Safety Concerns Led to Firing, Sues Hospital
Samantha Houston, a Mississippi doctor who was fired after raising concerns about her hospital's safety measures in the coronavirus pandemic, is now suing.
Mississippi Fair Director Charged in Prostitution Promotion
Steve Hutton, the executive director of the Mississippi Fair Commission, has been fired after he was charged with promoting prostitution.
Johnnie Harris
Current MSU associate head women’s basketball coach Johnnie Harris could be perfect to fill former coach Vic Schaefer's position and keep building up the university's program.
257 New COVID-19 Cases in Mississippi, Easter Services 'Voluntary’ Under Order
Mississippi saw a record 257 new cases of COVID-19 yesterday, bringing the official statewide total to 2,260, the Mississippi State Department of Health announced this morning.
Wednesday, April 8
DIY: Three-Ingredient Disposable Face Mask
This do-it-yourself will show you how to make a disposable (single use) face mask out of a few items that you likely already have around the house.
Lumumba: More COVID-19 Tests, Hazard Pay, Hotels for Infected Residents
The City of Jackson is purchasing 6,000 additional COVID-19 tests for use on first responders and local jail inmates, providing hazard pay to first responders and partnering with a local hotel to offer shelter to people who are infected.
Black Mississippians Suffered 72% of COVID-19 Deaths; Many Tests Don’t Track Race
More than half of all Mississippians currently diagnosed with COVID-19 and nearly three-fourths of the virus’ current casualties are African American, the Mississippi State Department of Health revealed today.
City of Jackson and Visit Jackson Call For Citywide First Responder Appreciation Day
On Friday, April 10, 2020, Jackson residents and business owners are called to post a sign in their window thanking our Jackson Police officers, firefighters, EMTs, and healthcare workers who have been serving on the frontlines during this COVID-19 public health crisis, or honk their horns at noon as a show of support.
Tuesday, April 7
UMMC Builds Ventilators for COVID-19 Pandemic Response
Dr. Charles Robertson, an assistant professor of anesthesiology at the University of Mississippi Medical Center, has built about 170 ventilators of his own design to use in the event of a shortage, doubling the Medical Center’s supply.
Mississippi Working to Expand Hospital Capacity for Virus
Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves said Monday that hospitals in the state have about 3,000 beds, and projections show that almost 400 more beds will be needed when the state reaches is peak of the coronavirus outbreak in the next few weeks.
MSDH Reports 177 New COVID-19 Cases, 8 Deaths, Pediatric Info
Mississippi saw 177 new official cases of COVID-19 as of yesterday evening, a number close to the peak infections for a single day.
OPINION: Governor, Rescind ‘Confederate Heritage’ Proclamation, Focus on Racial Healing
As many Mississippians are faced with the coronavirus in every county but two as of today, the Mississippi Sons of Confederate Veterans released a proclamation signed by Gov. Tates naming April as "Confederate Heritage Month”
Hand Sanitizer Distribution Locations Wednesday, April 8, at 10 a.m.
Please see the locations listed in this article for the next Hand Sanitizer Distribution event scheduled for Wednesday, April 8, at 10 a.m. while supplies last. There will be drive through concept for each location.
Monday, April 6
COVID-19 Affects Black Mississippians Disproportionately; MDOC Workers Test Positive
Two employees of the Mississippi Department of Corrections have tested positive for COVID-19, and a prisoner is awaiting the results of a test for the novel coronavirus, Gov. Tate Reeves said at a press event April 6.
City Parks and Facilities Closed; City Events Postponed Through May
Due the COVID-19 pandemic, the Department of Parks and Recreation has postponed all events scheduled to take place April 11th thru May 23rd.
MSDH: Masks Now Recommended for Personal, Public Protection
Given the rising number of cases of COVID-19 in Mississippi, the Mississippi State Department of Health now recommends that healthcare workers wear a face covering (either manufactured or appropriate cloth mask) throughout the workday.
Mississippi Churches Take Services Online, into Parking Lots
Some Mississippi houses of worship are offering online services during the coronavirus pandemic. Others are inviting people to sit in vehicles outside the sanctuary to have socially distant prayer and maybe to hear a pastor's message over the radio.
Bilal Qizilbash and His Nonprofit Feed Homeless at Smith Park
Bilal Qizilbash and his team, who work under the banner of R U Hungry?, started reaching out to the homeless population in parks, under bridges and bus stops across the City of Jackson.
Outbreak: Mississippi Gets Disaster Declaration to Speed Aid
Mississippi on Sunday become the latest U.S. state declared a major disaster area by President Donald Trump amid the new coronavirus outbreak, giving the state access to more federal assistance to confront the pandemic.
April 6: State Shares More Testing Data, Reports 100 New COVID-19 Cases, 8 Deaths
Cases of the novel coronavirus in Mississippi are now at 1,738 as the first full week of shelter-at-home begins statewide, with the Mississippi State Department of Health announcing a steady increase of 100 new cases since yesterday.
Penney Ainsworth
Penney Ainsworth, president and chief executive officer of Boys & Girls Club of Central Mississippi, has been with the organization for more than 24 years and has held her current position for seven years.
MBK Provides ACA Support for Persons Seeking Health Insurance Options Due to Massive Layoffs
The My Brother’s Keeper, Inc. National Extension Project is encouraging Mississippians to consider the Special Enrollment period to secure alternative insurance options to remain covered.
UMMC Calls on Community to Help Protect Health Care Heroes
The University of Mississippi Medical Center is calling on the community to help protect its employees after the Mississippi Department of Health directed all health care professionals in the state to wear a mask while at work.
Mobile COVID-19 Testing Scheduled Wednesday at Traceway Park in Clinton
One-day mobile collections for COVID-19 testing specimens are continuing statewide this week, including drive-through testing Wednesday at Traceway Park in Clinton.
Sunday, April 5
SCV: Gov. Tate Reeves Proclaimed ‘Confederate Heritage Month’ on April 3
As coronavirus spiked across the state, the Mississippi Sons of Confederate Veterans posted an April 3 state proclamation proclaiming that this month is “Confederate Heritage Month.” Gov. Tate Reeves apparently signed the proclamation two days after he did an about-face and issued a statewide shelter-at-home order due to COVID-19.
April 5 Update: COVID-19 Cases up 183 to 1,638 Statewide
The Mississippi State Department of Health recorded 183 new cases of COVID-19 between 6 p.m. on Friday and 6 p.m. on Saturday, the single largest one-day total. In that same time, eight more people have died from the virus.
Tippah and Jackson Counties are Upcoming Sites for One-Day Drive-Through Covid-19 Testing
JACKSON, Miss. – One-day mobile collections for COVID-19 testing specimens are continuing this weekend and into early next week, with the University of Mississippi Medical Center, Mississippi State Department of Health, Mississippi Emergency Management Agency and Mississippi National Guard leading operations.
Millsaps College Employee Tests Positive for COVID-19
A Millsaps College employee has tested positive for novel coronavirus, also known as COVID-19. That individual received the positive test on April 3, 2020 and is in self-isolation under medical supervision.
Saturday, April 4
Small Business Owners Have Loan, Grant Options, Even If None Perfect
Emergency loans from the SBA and a new "Payroll Protection Program" loan created by the CARES Act of 2020 give small business owners some options for keeping the doors open and staff on payroll. For some small businesses, it may not be enough.
April 4 Update: COVID-19 Deaths in Mississippi Rise to 35, Could Reach 1,000
Confirmed coronavirus cases rose to 1,455 today, with the Mississippi State Department of Health adding 97 more infected people to its official tally. It also added six more deaths since yesterday, bringing the total to 35, with the state health officer warning Friday that the state may see 1,000 fatalities due to the virus.
Friday, April 3
Court Revives Suit Over Mississippi School Funding Disparity
A federal appeals court has revived a lawsuit that says Mississippi allows grave disparities in funding between predominantly black and predominantly white schools.
COVID-19 Curve Still Rising in Mississippi With 181 New Cases, 3 Deaths
Mississippi saw its biggest increase in novel coronavirus cases in a single 24-hour period today with 181 new cases and 3 deaths for a total. The Mississippi State Department of Health is reporting 1,358 Mississippians diagnosed with COVID-19 as of April 2.
Mississippi Withholds Some Health Prep Info About Virus, Including Ventilators
Mississippi residents are unlikely to find out how many ventilators are available in the state to respond to the coronavirus pandemic because the Health Department is withholding that information.
Lt. Gov. Hosemann Letter to Churches on COVID-19 Shelter-in-Place
Lt. Gov. Delbert Hosemann released a letter asking Mississippi churches to ring their church bells at 6 p.m. every day beginning Monday, April 6, through the end of the statewide shelter-in-place in recognition of healthcare workers and those who are sick.
Thursday, April 2
Mississippi Attorney General's Office on Price Gouging
The Mississippi Attorney General's Office has received more than 200 calls related to price gouging on necessities, like hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes, toilet paper, and water.
Mayor Lumumba: Jackson Police Will Enforce Strong Stay-at-Home Order
Jackson Mayor Chokwe A. Lumumba stood before reporters in front of City Hall to both get tough with violators of his first executive order and to announce a detailed lockdown of the capital city, except for businesses and operations deemed essential, ahead of a state-wide lockdown.
New Enhanced Unemployment Insurance Benefits Can Help You and Your Family
Mississippians are being asked to stay home as much as possible and to avoid groups greater than 10. These needed actions are causing severe economic hardships. The CARES Act is another phase in the Federal government's attempt to assist struggling families.
Gov. Tate Reeves Reschedules Special Election for House District 88
Today, Governor Tate Reeves announced that the special election for House District 88 is rescheduled for June 23, 2020 to slow the spread of COVID-19.
OPINION: Suspending Housing Costs is a Moral and Economic Imperative
University of Mississippi sociology professor and columnist James M. Thomas writes that Gov. Tate Reeves should do far more to help allay housing costs as workers are forced to stay home to reduce the spread of the coronavirus.
Eric Dampier
Eric Dampier was a force in the middle of the Bulldogs’ defense as he helped protect the rim with his 3.1 blocks per game. His defense helped MSU win the SEC West title and upset the University of Kentucky in the SEC Tournament.
A Record 10 Million Sought US Jobless Aid in Past 2 Weeks
Combined with last week's report that 3.3 million people sought unemployment aid two weeks ago, the U.S. economy has now suffered nearly 10 million layoffs in just the past few weeks—far exceeding the figure for any corresponding period on record.
Governor’s Shelter-in-Place Order Will Close All Boating, Most Recreation at Barnett Reservoir
Under a statewide shelter-in-place order issued by Gov. Tate Reeves on Wednesday, most recreational opportunities at Barnett Reservoir will be closed from 5 p.m. on Friday until further notice.
Jackson Hinds Library System Offers Curbside Book Pickup
The Jackson Hinds Library System will offer a special new Curbside Book Pickup Program from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday at the entrance of the Eudora Welty Library at 300 North State Street.
Wednesday, April 1
Governor Does About-Face, Issues Statewide ‘Shelter In Place’ For Mississippi
In an overnight about-face, Gov. Tate Reeves signed a long-awaited executive order today closing non-essential businesses and directing all Mississippians to shelter at home between Friday, April 3, and Monday, April 20, to help lessen the spread of the novel coronavirus.
Cheat Sheet for Mayor Lumumba's 'Stay at Home' Executive Order to Combat COVID-19
To further combat the spread of COVID-19 in the City of Jackson, Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba issued a Stay at Home Order, effective April 3, 2020, directing all Jackson residents to stay at home and limit movements outside of their homes beyond essential needs.
BREAKING: Governor Reeves Issues 'Shelter-in-Place' Order Effective Friday at 5 p.m.
JACKSON — Today, Governor Tate Reeves signed a new executive order establishing a statewide shelter-in-place for Mississippi to slow the spread of COVID-19 and protect the health of all who call our state home.
UMMC Pandemic Expert: Social Distancing Now Will Save Lives, Lessen COVID-19 Spread
Social distancing is the most important tool we have in slowing COVID-19 transmission, saving lives and saving resources, according to a University of Mississippi Medical Center emergency physician.
Mississippi Alters Probation Check-in Because of Virus
The Mississippi Department of Corrections is temporarily stopping in-person check-ins for people on probation, parole, house arrest or other forms of community supervision as part of an effort to control the spread of the new coronavirus.
Reeves to Issue Shelter-in-Place as COVID-19 Cases Swell to 1,073 in Mississippi
Gov. Tate Reeves is expected to become one of the last governors in the U.S. to issue a statewide shelter-at-home order for the next two weeks after a reassessment of the current piecemeal lockdown strategy.
Easter Family Fun: Character Cornhole
I am sure many of you have children who have been home from school for too long and are getting antsy for something to do. Well, with a little creativity, you can turn some basic items into something fun for the family to do for a weekend afternoon.
What is Social Distancing?
Social distancing is more than just a single action. It is a different way of living. El distanciamiento social es mucho más que una acción: Es una manera diferente de vivir.
JXN MS Mobile Meals Dispatch
The Jackson COVID-19 Community Food and Aid Coalition is a collaboration of local groups that formed a food dispatch and delivery service to support the most vulnerable residents in Jackson, including elders and children, by supplying weekly food supplies during this quarantine period.
Online Streaming Events
Some organizations and individuals have started hosting online events to help give people some fun and social reprieve even whilst taking refuge at home.
CDC Recommended Guidelines to Stay Safe During COVID-19 Crisis
With COVID-19 continuing to run rampant in our state and in our country, the Centers for Disease Control has issued recommendations for preventative measures people can take to keep themselves and others as safe and as healthy as possible.
Filing for Unemployment Benefits
The Mississippi Department of Employee Security has modified its existing unemployment compensation rules, allowing Mississippi workers who are not able to work due to COVID-19 to be eligible to file for unemployment benefits.
COVID-19: Can Mississippi Imitate South Korea?
As COVID-19 has spread across the globe, the primary fear of observers worldwide is the threat of collapse of the health-care system. More severe infections than a state’s intensive-care units have the capacity to treat will dramatically increase the risk of death.
Tackling Food Insecurity in the Capital City
While we are collectively concerned over what COVID-19 means for the immediate future, locally and globally, Jacksonians with surrounding businesses and organizations are standing together, working hard and endeavoring to make sure no child or family in need goes hungry.
Mayoral Proclamation of Executive Order Requiring Individuals to Stay at Home and Practice Social Distancing Requirements
Jackson Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba released an executive order requiring individuals to stay at home and practice social distancing requirements.
Local Jails, Prisons a Petri Dish for COVID-19?
Prisoner advocates describe the COVID-19 situation as a ticking time bomb in Mississippi, where 19,000 people are serving sentences behind state prison bars and 5,200 people languish for months or years in county jails
EDITOR'S NOTE: A Silver Lining to the COVID-19 Crisis
"Be present in your feelings right now and take time to look within and unpack when you’re ready. It’s perfectly OK to slow down and not give into the perpetual pressure of always working to be better."
Angeles Perdidos Baked Chicken
Not too long back, a dear friend would take me out to eat at this food joint over on Pico Boulevard in downtown Los Angeles. I have since used its rotisserie chicken dish to inspire an adaptation I call my Angeles Perdidos Baked Chicken.
Texissippi Sid, Musical Tones from Two Homes
A veteran to the Jackson music scene, Sid Thompson has been strumming a guitar since the early 1960s.
Red Lentil Soup
This delicious red lentil soup, called mercimek çorbası in Turkish, is popular throughout the Middle East.
Jonterius Lewis
One of the many people who have been putting overtime into their “essential businesses” since the COVID-19 crisis began, Jonterius Lewis helps ensure people get the supplies they need through his position as a supervisor and cashier with Shoppers Value in Clinton.