Stories for March 2020

Time, Weight Restrictions Suspended for COVID-19 Commercial Vehicles

To assist with the transportation and delivery of critical commodities due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Mississippi Department of Transportation is waiving required weight permits and fees, allowing weight increases and suspending time restrictions for certain commercial vehicles.

Trump Nominates Mississippi Judge for 5th US Appeals Court

Cory Wilson, a judge on the Mississippi Court of Appeals, is being nominated to serve on a federal appeals court that handles cases for Mississippi, Louisiana and Texas, the White House announced Monday.

OPINION: Amid COVID-19 Crisis, U.S. Must Heal All the Wounds that Got Us Here

As the U.S. reels from the effects of COVID-19, we are faced with a stark reality: We were desperately and woefully unprepared for a crisis.

Governor Orders ‘Shelter In Place’ For Lauderdale as Virus Affects 76 Counties

Largely due to rapid localized spread of COVID-19 over several days, Gov. Tate Reeves signed an executive order today laying down a shelter-in-place order for Lauderdale County, which includes the city of Meridian, “and each and every one of the municipalities therein,” the governor said.

Precautionary Boil Water Notice

Due to the recent loss in water pressure, the City of Jackson Water/Sewer Utilities Division has issued a precautionary boil water advisory until further notice for several areas.

Second Mississippi Rep Resigns Over Pension and Pay Dispute

Republican Rep. Billy Andrews of Purvis is resigning as of Tuesday because he will not be able to collect his state government pension while serving in the state House.

Mayor Warns Businesses Violating Orders, Calls for Consistent Statewide, National Policies

Mayor Chokwe A. Lumumba talked tough Monday to people and businesses violating his executive orders in the capital city, and calling for more consistent statewide and national orders.

Miss. House Democrats Call on Gov. Reeves to Ease Burden on Families Caused by COVID-19

Today, Mississippi House Democrats wrote a letter to Governor Reeves encouraging the Governor to take advantage of newly enacted federal legislation that could assist Mississippi families with the costs of health care, child care, and groceries.

Monday, March 30: 847 Detected Cases of COVID-19 in State, Total Tested Roughly 8,000

The Mississippi State Department of Health reported 89 new cases of COVID-19 across the state today, up to 847 from 758 yesterday.

Fallout of Tate Reeves’ Executive Order: Department Store Roulette, Scared Associates

The concrete shopping jungle known as Dogwood Festival Market looked as much like a ghost town as it could as the sun started to set on a warm spring Saturday afternoon.

Mississippi Businesses Shift Production During Pandemic

As the nation hunkers down and people shelter in place amid the coronavirus pandemic, several Mississippi businesses have stayed open, switching gears to make much-needed products.

Analysis: Virus Upends Mississippi Budget Writing Process

The coronavirus pandemic has scrambled most of the planning that Mississippi budget writers have done the past few months, leaving uncertainty about how a shaky economy will affect tax collections.

MABUS: Gov. Reeves Must Immediately Invoke Statewide Shelter-in-Place Order

COVID19 is not a hoax. It doesn’t care if you are a Democrat or Republican or if you live in China or Italy or Mississippi.

JPS Announces Extension of Food Programs During School Closures

Jackson Public Schools will continue to serve Grab-and-Go breakfast and lunch meals during school closures through April 17, 2020.

Trump Adds 30 Days to Distancing Guidelines, Gives Up on 'Reopening' By Easter

President Donald Trump is extending the voluntary national shutdown for a month as sickness and death from the coronavirus pandemic rise in the U.S.

Sunday, March 29: MSDH Reports 95 New COVID-19 Cases, 1 New Death, Up to 74 Counties

The MSDH added 95 reported cases of COVID-19 for a new total of 758 in Mississippi. New counties reporting cases are Carroll, Claiborne and Warren, bringing to the total number of counties reporting cases to 74 of 82.

Saturday, March 28: COVID-19 Cases in 71 Mississippi Counties, Total 663 with 13 Deaths

Today’s coronavirus numbers are in for Mississippi, leaving very few counties on the map in white, denoting which of our 82 counties do not yet have an official confirmed case. Today, MSDH added 84 cases to bring the total to 663 with 13 deaths. Of 82 counties, 71 now are reporting at least one case of COVID-19.

City's COVID-19 Limits on Groups, Restaurants Remain; $40 Million Bond Vote Ahead

Mayor Chokwe A. Lumumba reiterated to Jackson residents Thursday that the City of Jackson’s ban on gatherings of 10 or more people and limitations on local restaurant operations, as part of efforts to curb the spread of COVID-19, are still in place.

JPD Officer Tests Positive for COVID-19; No More Jail for Misdemeanors

A Jackson Police Department officer has tested positive for COVID-19, Police Chief James E. Davis confirmed in a press conference today, where he also announced more safety protocols.

UMMC Begins In-House Testing for COVID-19

The University of Mississippi Medical Center began performing in-house testing for COVID-19 Thursday, providing a major boost in the state’s ability to manage the pandemic.

E.J. Nolen

First they came for the hand sanitizer. Then the disinfectant. Then the toilet paper. By Friday afternoon, customers were accosting sales representative E.J. Nolen in the back parking lot of Columbus Paper and Chemical for those basic supplies.

MSDH Announces 'South Korea' Strategy, Governor Clarifies Executive Order

The time for playing defense against COVID-19 is over, State Health Officer Dr. Thomas Dobbs declared Thursday in front of the governor’s mansion in downtown Jackson.

UK's Johnson Tests Positive for Virus, Deaths Soar in Spain

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson became the first leader of a major country to test positive for the coronavirus that has sickened more than a half-million people worldwide.

House Debates $2.2T Virus Relief Bill Amid Last-Minute Snag

With exceptional resolve in an extraordinary time, the House on Friday debated a $2.2 trillion package tossing a life preserver to a U.S. economy and health care system left flailing by the coronavirus pandemic, even as one maverick Republican threatened leaders' plans for swift passage.

Jackson Police Seeking Persons of Interest

Jackson Police are seeking persons of interest in the murder investigation of, Nicholas Robertson. Robertson was shot multiple times on Florence Avenue during last month and had later succumbed to his injuries at a local hospital.

Restaurant Employee Relief Fund

NRAEF set up the Restaurant Employee Relief Fund to help restaurant industry employees experiencing hardship in the wake of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak.

EDITORIAL: Gov. Reeves Needs to Take ‘Essential’ Seriously for COVID-19 Social Distancing

What (Gov. Tate) Reeves still has not done, is follow the lead of states near and far by truly ordering only essential businesses and services to remain open. What Reeves did instead this past Tuesday has been a bona fide mess.

Mississippi Eases Graduation and Third-Grade Rules for Virus

Mississippi's education leaders on Thursday moved to ease the way for seniors to graduate and third graders to move on to fourth grade in the face of schools closed to combat the spread of the coronavirus.

108 New Cases of COVID-19, Largest Increase So Far

As controversy swirls in Mississippi over Gov. Tate Reeves’ refusal to issue a “Shelter in Place” order, the state has 108 additional cases of COVID-19 as of yesterday, March 25, at 6 p.m.

Mississippi Jobless Claims Tough to File as Virus Ups Demand

The Mississippi agency that handles claims for jobless benefits is getting 10 times the usual number of phone calls as people seek help amid the coronavirus pandemic.

3.3 Million Seek US Jobless Aid, Nearly 5 Times Earlier High

Nearly 3.3 million Americans applied for unemployment benefits last week — almost five times the previous record set in 1982 — amid a widespread economic shutdown caused by the coronavirus.

Mississippi State Board of Education Suspends Key Policies to Manage Impact of Extended School Closures

The Mississippi State Board of Education today suspended several statewide policies to manage the impact of extended school closures due to the COVID-19 public health crisis.

M.K. Turk

Since there will be no March madness this year, it is a good time to look back on the great coaches and players of the past. One of those great coaches, M.K. Turk, happened to be at the University of Southern Mississippi for the 1986-1987 season, his 11th season as head coach of the Golden Eagles.

Local Businesses Collaborate to Serve 3,000 Dinners to Jackson Families

Eaton Aerospace along with the teams at the Systems Companies and the Center for Entrepreneurship have partnered to fund hot dinners for JPS scholars and families during the COVID-19 crisis.

Be on Guard as Telephone Scammers Set to Cash in on Coronavirus

People in Mississippi are being warned to be extra vigilant as scam callers are likely to ramp up their activity over the next few weeks to take advantage of increasing amounts of people being at home due to the current Coronavirus outbreak.

Senate Passes $2.2T Coronavirus Aid Plan, House Votes Friday

The Senate passed a mammoth $2.2 trillion economic rescue package steering aid to businesses, workers and health care systems engulfed by the coronavirus pandemic, an unprecedented response amid record new jobless claims and mounting evidence that the economy is in a recession.

MDCPS: Public Should Report Concerns of Child Neglect, Abuse to State Agency

Child welfare experts fear that children are now at a greater risk of being hurt or neglected because families, many facing additional stress over work and health issues, are living in isolation from mandated reporters.

Clinton Chamber Serving as Local Admin for National ServiceIndustry.Tips Initiative

The Clinton Chamber of Commerce has joined the ranks of other community leaders at ServiceIndustry.Tips by serving as the local administrator for the Jackson Metropolitan Area in assisting service industry workers affected by the coronavirus outbreak.

Washington Agrees on Unrivaled $2 Trillion Virus Rescue Bill

The White House and Senate leaders announced agreement Wednesday on an unparalleled, $2 trillion emergency bill to rush aid to businesses, workers and a health care system slammed by the coronavirus pandemic.

Spain's Coronavirus Deaths Leap; Prince Charles Now Infected

The coronavirus outbreak hit home Wednesday among the well-born and the desperately poor alike as Britain's Prince Charles tested positive and India's 1.3 billion people, or one-sixth of the Earth's population, found themselves under lockdown.

First Signs of Disruption Appear in Housing; Markets 'Calm'

The outbreak of the coronavirus has dealt a shock to the global economy with unprecedented speed as it continues to spread across the world. Here is a look at some of the latest developments Wednesday related to the global economy.

Dr. Yusef Salaam of ‘Exonerated 5’: Jails, Prisons ‘Petri Dish’ for COVID-19

Living under unusual, high-pressure circumstances and without access to adequate health care or nutrition has forced the nation’s prisoners to cultivate a kind of secret knowledge that others on the outside might not possess.

UPDATE: Four Mississippi Men, One Woman Die from COVID-19 as State Cases Rise to 377

Men from Holmes, Webster and Wilkinson counties and a woman from Tunica county are the second, third, fourth and fifth person to die from the coronavirus in the state, the Mississippi State Department of Health announced today.

Vera Hall

The Small Business Association named Vera Hall, owner of Innovative Performance Construction Company LLC in Jackson, as the 2020 SBA Mississippi Small-Business Person of the Year during an SBA meeting in March.

What You Should Know: UMMC OB-GYN Answers Questions on COVID-19 and Pregnancy

The University of Mississippi Medical Center is working to keep its patients safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. This includes pregnant patients and newborns.

Urgent Request for Supplies from Jackson Businesses for COVID-19 Response

Working Together Jackson, People’s Advocacy Institute and Stewpot Community Services have partnered with volunteers from the University of Mississippi Medical Center to feed and support vulnerable families during the COVID-19 crisis.

Governor Orders Limited Gatherings, Declares Most Businesses 'Essential,' Supersedes Local Safety Efforts

Gov. Tate Reeves signed an executive order early this evening expanding the bans on large public gatherings in Mississippi, while declaring most types of businesses “essential” and, thus, exempt from its provisions.

Gov. Tate Reeves Signs New Executive Order in Response to COVID-19 Spread

Today, Governor Tate Reeves signed a new executive order to further ramp up the state's efforts to protect the health of Mississippians during the outbreak of COVID-19.

Mississippi Public Service Commission Urges Public to Stay Away from Utility Workers

The Mississippi Public Service Commission is urging the public to stay away from utility crews working in the field.

City of Jackson, Metropolitan YMCAs Partner to Combat Child Hunger

The City of Jackson Department of Parks and Recreation in partnership with the YMCAs of Mississippi’s Feeding Program is providing free Grab & Go meals to children ages 18 and under during school closings due to the COVID-19 Coronavirus outbreak.

Preventing Panic in Preschoolers

Many children may be confused and frightened about the COVID-19 pandemic, but parents can do a lot to help children cope and stay safe during the outbreak, a University of Mississippi psychology professor advises.

Trump Hoping to See US Economy Reopened by Easter Amid Virus

With lives and the economy hanging in the balance, President Donald Trump said Tuesday he is hoping the United States will be reopened by Easter as he weighs how to relax nationwide social-distancing guidelines to put some workers back on the job during the coronavirus outbreak.

Virus Pandemic an Unprecedented Test for a Young Generation

As this crisis unfolds, the younger generation likely will be tested like never before, especially those whose families are already on the edge, financially and health-wise.

Olympics Delayed as US Nears a Deal on $2 Trillion in Relief

The Tokyo Olympics were put off to next year as coronavirus deaths and infections surged in Europe and the U.S. on Tuesday, with New York warning it is about to get hit by a “bullet train."

Dow Has Best Day Since 1933 as Congress Nears Deal on Aid

The Dow Jones Industrial Average surged to its best day since 1933 as Congress and the White House neared a deal on Tuesday to inject nearly $2 trillion of aid into an economy ravaged by the coronavirus.

Andy Frame

In the case of Andy Frame, the adage about the journey being more worthwhile than the destination is an apropos description. He never envisioned where he would be right now, in terms of both employment and residence.

Governor: Wait-and-See on State Lockdown Despite 71 New COVID-19 Cases

Gov. Tate Reeves again rejected calls for a statewide lockdown at a press conference outside the governor’s mansion today in downtown Jackson, saying that “no expert had yet recommended” such an enforced quarantine.

Rep. Palazzo: Rural Hospitals ‘On Brink’ of ‘Collapse,’ Need Relief Amid Pandemic

Congress must assist rural hospitals in its upcoming bill aimed at blunting the economic devastation the coronavirus has wrought, Mississippi Congressman Steven Palazzo wrote in a letter to top U.S. House leaders on Tuesday.

Lawsuit: Superintendent Used District Funds for Wedding

Arthur McMillan, the former superintendent of a Mississippi school district, is accused in a federal lawsuit of using district funds and resources for his daughter's wedding.

Governor Rejects State Lockdown For COVID-19: ‘Mississippi's Never Going to Be China’

Gov. Tate Reeves rejected calls today for a statewide shelter-at-home order, a measure of caution against the spread of COVID-19 being rapidly deployed next door in Louisiana, elsewhere in the United States and across the globe.

MPB, PBS Support Learning Amid Coronavirus Disruptions

With schools in the state having closed their doors to help contain the spread of COVID-19, both MPB and PBS have expanded educational efforts to ensure educators, parents and students are equipped with resources to keep the learning going outside of the classroom.

Mississippi Department of Education Compiles Learning-at-Home Resources

The Mississippi Department of Education has compiled a host of learning-at-home resources for students in pre-K through grade 12 to support student learning during the extended school closure.

Eight Easy Home Art Projects for Kids During the Coronavirus Outbreak

Having some easy-to-do art projects on hand and ready to go is a great way to help your kids relieve stress and take control of a small part of their lives.

Governor Under Fire as COVID-19 Spreads, Testing Begins at Fairgrounds

The Mississippi State Department of Health begins drive-thru testing today at the Mississippi State Fairgrounds, in partnership with the University of Mississippi Medical Center and wireless provider C-Spire.

Fed to Buy Unlimited Government Debt, Lend to Businesses

The Federal Reserve says it will buy as much government debt as it deems necessary and will also begin lending to small and large businesses and local governments to help them weather the crisis.

Atmos Energy and MS Food Network Partner with JPS to Feed Families

The Mississippi Food Network, and Atmos Energy partnered to fund weekend sacks of food to Jackson Public Schools’ scholars.

Mississippi Gov. Seeks to Help Unemployed Amid Virus Outbreak

Confirmed coronavirus infections climbed to more than 200 in Mississippi, and the governor announced plans to provide quicker access to unemployment benefits for residents affected by the outbreak.

Analysis: Mississippi Wise to Close Capitol Because of Virus

The Mississippi Capitol is a germ and virus factory during any normal legislative session because of all the glad-handing, back-slapping and random hugging. It was clearly in line to become more perilous than usual during the coronavirus pandemic.

MSDH: List of COVID-19 Testing Centers Throughout Mississippi

The Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) will now be keeping an active list of local COVID-19 testing sites throughout the state.

Up 159% Up Since Friday, Mississippi COVID-19 Cases Continue to Rise, Spread

This weekend just saw its second huge spike in coronavirus cases in Mississippi, continuing to spread throughout the state and jumping to 207 cases today from a total of 140 Saturday and 80 on Friday.

Saturday, March 22: 60 New COVID-19 Cases in Mississippi, Spread Across Age Groups

The Mississippi State Department of Health announced 60 new cases of COVID-19 this morning, March 21, bringing the statewide total to 140. The cases are mostly women and spread across adult age brackets.

Singer Kenny Rogers Dies at 81

Actor-singer Kenny Rogers, the smooth, Grammy-winning balladeer who spanned jazz, folk, country and pop with such hits as “Lucille,” “Lady” and “Islands in the Stream” and embraced his persona as “The Gambler” on record and on TV, died Friday night. He was 81.

MSDH: Restaurants, Bars Should 'Suspend Dine-In Service,' Everyone Should Skip Church, Weddings, Funerals

The Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) now recommends that all restaurants and bars suspend dine-in service in order to help slow the spread of COVID-19, effective immediately. This decision is consistent with the social distancing principles from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and in line with actions taken by other states.

More COVID-19 Testing Sites, Public and Private, Available in Jackson Area

Mississippians will have access to a central COVID-19 testing location at the State Fairgrounds in Jackson starting Monday.

How Local Businesses are Handling COVID-19

The COVID-19 outbreak is causing mass temporary closures of local businesses across the spectrum. Fortunately, plenty of those businesses have stepped up to help their employees and their communities in their own ways.

JPD Will Not Change Arrest Policy Amid COVID-19 Outbreak

The Jackson Police Department is not making changes to its arrest protocols in the wake of COVID-19, even as other departments across the country are rethinking their own policing strategies in order to mitigate the spread of the infection at precincts and in overcrowded jails.

Mississippi is Latest State to Delay Elections Amid Pandemic

Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves announced Friday that he is postponing the March 31 Republican primary runoff in the state's 2nd Congressional District because of the coronavirus. The new date is June 23.

Produce Sale at Broad Street Bakery

"We just partnered with Sunrise produce. They have a huge truckload of produce which will spoil if not sold. They are bringing it Broad Street and at 11:15 this morning, we will open an open-air produce stand with deeply discounted prices. All must be sold."

5 Ways To Support Your Salon During Uncertain Times

COVID-19 is having a global impact on our daily lives, and it is becoming increasingly apparent that businesses are really starting to take a hit, particularly the service industry.

Rankin, 10 Other Counties Join List of 80 Cases of COVID-19 in State, One Dead

This morning, The Mississippi State Department of Health added 30 new cases to its daily roster of COVID-19 cases in the state, considered “presumptive” until the Centers for Disease Control confirms the positive tests.

SBA Includes Warren County in Declaration of Disaster for the Region

The Vicksburg Warren Chamber of Commerce announced today that Warren County was included in a Declaration of Disaster authorized by the Small Business Administration for the State of Louisiana.

Precautionary Boil Water Notice

Due to the recent loss in water pressure, the City of Jackson Water/Sewer Utilities Division has issued a precautionary boil water advisory until further notice for Eagle Ave.

Rose Kasrai

Rose Kasrai, a licensed marriage and family therapist as well as a sex therapist, is tired of the shame around sex and hopes to normalize conversations about sex with her business, Sex Wellness Therapy.

MSDH News: Health Officials Confirm First Coronavirus Death in Mississippi

Today the Mississippi State Department of Health reports the first death from coronavirus in Mississippi. The case was a male 60-65 years old from Hancock County with chronic underlying conditions.

UMMC Experts Offer Advice on Dealing with COVID-19 Stressors

Take a step back and focus on what’s in your power, not what isn’t, experts at the University of Mississippi Medical Center say.

Letter from Superintendent Dr. Errick L. Greene Regarding JPS Response to the Coronavirus

JPS educators are working collaboratively to develop meaningful and reasonable learning opportunities for all of our scholars, even with the challenges of inequitable access to technology (especially with devices and technology).

OPINION: Message from a COVID-19 Reporter: We Need Patience, Discipline, Fortitude

Jackson Free Press reporter Nick Judin, who is reporting the seriousness of the growing coronavirus epidemic, warns to not take this moment in history for granted.

50 COVID-19 Cases Now as UMMC Works to Develop Own Test for 'Tidal Wave' Virus

“We are ramping up all of our contingency planning to be prepared for a tidal wave of patients that we know is about to hit us,” UMMC Department of Emergency Chairman Dr. Alan Jones warned.

Governor Tate Reeves Expands Telehealth to Further Care In COVID-19 Response

Today, Governor Tate Reeves announced the expansion of the state's telehealth coverage to increase and further care for Mississippians and slow the spread of COVID-19.

Mississippi Schools Closed Until Mid-April to Slow Virus

Mississippi public schools will be closed until at least April 17 to curb the spread of the new coronavirus, Gov. Tate Reeves said Thursday.

Trump Taps Emergency Powers as Virus Relief Plan Proceeds

Describing himself as a “wartime president” fighting an invisible enemy, President Donald Trump on Wednesday invoked rarely used emergency powers to marshal critical medical supplies against the coronavirus pandemic.

Dak Prescott

The Dallas Cowboys placed the exclusive franchise tag on quarterback Dak Prescott, meaning he can’t talk to any other teams and that Dallas has until July 15 to try to work out a long-term deal with its young quarterback.

JSU Cancels All University-Sponsored Events, Postpones Spring Commencement

In response to the coronavirus pandemic, Jackson State University's Acting President Thomas K. Hudson announces that all university-sponsored events are canceled for the duration of the semester and said this decision will affect spring commencement ceremonies.

Hinds, D.A. Evaluating Release of Some Pretrial Detainees Due to COVID-19

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to ravage the country and globe, advocates warn of the unique health risks the easily contracted virus poses for the 19,000 people serving sentences inside Mississippi state prisons and the more than 5,200 people locked up and awaiting trial in county jails.

Mayoral Proclamation of Executive Order Prohibiting Gatherings of More Than 10 People

Jackson Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba has issued an executive order banning gatherings of more than 10 people in light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

10 Tips for Keeping Your Family Happy and Healthy During Coronavirus Isolation

With the outbreak of COVID-19, it's a stressful time for parents and kids, but there are things you as a parent can do to make this time more safe, emotionally stable, and fun for kids and even yourself.

Governor Tate Reeves Requests Economic Disaster Declaration for Small Businesses Impacted by COVID-19

Yesterday, Governor Tate Reeves requested a disaster declaration from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to aid small businesses and their employees being impacted by the COVID-19 outbreak.

MDE Provides Guidance to Parents of Students with Disabilities About Services During School Closures

The Mississippi Department of Education Office of Special Education has created this Q & A as a resource to parents of children with disabilities to help support their learning during school closures.

Mississippi Community Response and Recovery Fund

The Mississippi Community Relief and Recovery Fund supports the immediate and long-term needs of communities and organizations working on responding to emerging and extraordinary events, including COVID-19. All tax-deductible donations to the fund will support people and communities in Mississippi.

JPS Begins Food Distribution Programs for JPS Scholars and Families

Jackson Public Schools and the Mississippi Food Network will administer two feeding programs in support of our scholars and their families during extended school closures.

Jackson Restaurants Offering Curbside Service

In the wake of the coronavirus outbreak, a lot of restaurants and businesses in Jackson and throughout Mississippi have temporarily closed down. The following restaurants are still open and offering curbside takeout service to customers.

Delta, North Mississippi Hit Hardest by 13 New Presumptive COVID-19 Cases

The Mississippi Department of Health announced 13 new presumptive cases of the novel coronavirus this morning with cases in several Delta counties up to Desoto County in north Mississippi. No new Hinds cases showed up today—it is still at six—but nearby Madison County joined the list.

Katy Simpson Smith on ‘The Everlasting’

Jackson native Katy Simpson Smith's third novel "The Everlasting" is, at its core, a centuries-long story of love and equality. Four distinct characters, separated by time, find themselves in precarious tangles with not only the main setting of the novel, Rome, but also within themselves.

COVID-19 Brings Parade to Screeching Halt

Since COVID-19 made its way to the continental United States, the virus has forced organizations to cancel or postpone events that have been embedded into the lives of citizens.

Review on Tap: LD’s BeerRun

If you walk into (LD's BeerRun) with any level of beer enthusiasm, you will find a beer you like, because they follow a similar motto to my own, "If you don't like beer, you haven't found the right one."

Local Brews for Me and You

Larry Voss and Dylan Broome opened LD's BeerRun in December 2014 in northeast Jackson initially as a craft-beer retail store to serve the needs of local beer lovers.

COVID-19 in Mississippi, Indepth: A Primer

COVID-19 is here. And as the United States virtually shuts down amid fears of an overwhelmed health-care system and an unchecked pandemic, understanding the virus, its history, and how to mitigate its effects becomes an issue of national and local importance.

OPINION: Black People: Vote Like Our Lives Depend on It

"It doesn't require well-rehearsed promises and clever slogans to increase African American voting. The reality is the unfortunate truth that we should vote because our lives depend on it."

PUBLISHER'S NOTE: Flatten The Curve, Think Local in Wake of COVID-19

The Jackson Free Press team has done its damnedest to bring you the latest news on COVID-19 as it breaks here in the Jackson and throughout the state, as well as vital safety information.

Sandra Shelson

Sandra Shelson has served the Jackson area, and Mississippi at large, in her position as executive director of The Partnership for a Healthy Mississippi for the last 16 years. However, the road to finding her passion was not a direct one.

MDE Secures Waivers to Expedite Approvals of School Meal Programs

The Mississippi Department of Education's Office of Child Nutrition has secured two waivers from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to assist school districts in establishing meal programs at this time.

Metro Jackson Race for the Cure Rescheduled

In light of the recent progression of COVID-19, and the CDC guidance to postpone mass gatherings, we have made the difficult decision to reschedule the 21st annual Komen Metro Jackson Race for the Cure® scheduled for Saturday, April 25, 2020, to later this year.

Lisa Beckley-Roberts

The Mississippi Board of Trustees presented Lisa Beckley-Roberts, associate professor of ethnomusicology from Jackson State University's Department of Music, with its Distinguished IHL Excellence in Diversity and Inclusion Award during a ceremony at JSU on Feb. 20.

Mississippi COVID-19 Cases Rise to 21 with 6 in Hinds, National Guard Activated

The day after Gov. Tate Reeves activated the National Guard to help, the number of officially confirmed cases of the coronavirus in Mississippi rose to 21 on the Mississippi State Department of Health's website.

City Responds to COVID-19 with Emergency Measures, Scales Back Operations

Today, Mayor Chokwe A. Lumumba declared a state of civil emergency in the City of Jackson due to the coronavirus outbreak, signing additional executive orders to limit the number of people in a gathering and shutter some municipal buildings.

Governor Tate Reeves Signs Executive Orders Furthering Mississippi's COVID-19 Response

Today, Governor Tate Reeves signed two executive orders to further the state's response to COVID-19 and aid Mississippians being impacted.

Mississippi Orders Casinos to Close Amid Virus Concerns

All of Mississippi's state-regulated casinos were ordered to close by midnight Monday to limit the spread of the new coronavirus.

State Education Superintendent Recommends Suspending State Test Due to COVID-19

The Mississippi Department of Education is providing this update on the impact of school closures due to the COVID-19 outbreak.

Legislative Democrats Call for Bipartisan COVID-19 Emergency Measures and Suspension of Legislative Session

Legislative Democrats including the Mississippi House and Senate Democratic Caucuses along with the Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus encourage the Governor, Speaker of the House and Lt. Governor to spend this week working with us on a host of bipartisan emergency measures that tackle two immediate concerns.

AP Exclusive: Coronavirus Vaccine Test Opens with First Doses

U.S. researchers gave the first shots in a first test of an experimental coronavirus vaccine Monday, leading off a worldwide hunt for protection even as the pandemic surges.

Precautionary Boil Water Notice

Due to the recent loss in water pressure, the City of Jackson Water/Sewer Utilities Division has issued a precautionary boil water advisory until further notice for multiple streets.

EDITOR'S LETTER: Keep Calm, Stay Safe and Flatten the Curve

"Flattening the curve" matters. We can all help limit the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic in our own communities by social distancing, avoiding groups and staying home as much as possible. Do it.

Mississippi Shutting Down as COVID-19 Reaches Jackson, Coast, Rural Areas

The confirmed arrival of COVID-19 in Jackson follows a weekend of growing restrictions on movement and public gatherings nationwide.

Biz Update: COVID-19 Task Force, What's Still Open and Meal Drop-off Coalition

As locally owned businesses face unprecedented threats from the coronavirus, Fondren Renaissance Foundation President Roy Campbell has assembled a task force to make recommendations and decide best practices to keep residents and the business community healthy.

Mayor Lumumba to Declare Civil Emergency Amid Coronavirus Outbreak

On Tuesday, March 17, Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba will sign three executive orders in a direct effort to mitigate the spread of the COVID-19 Coronavirus.

Mississippi Blood Services Experiencing Blood Shortage

As the Coronavirus outbreak continues, Mississippi Blood Services has been forced to cancel numerous blood drives resulting in a blood shortage.

Mississippi State of Emergency Declaration

Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves' office released a state of emergency declaration on the COVID-19 outbreak.

Mobile Meal Dispatch and Drop-off Services for Jackson Families in Need During COVID-19 Outbreak

Multiple organizations are collaborating to provide mobile meal dispatch and drop-off services for Jackson families in need. Meals will cover breakfast and dinner for families throughout the extended break.

PSC Suspends Utility Disconnects in Mississippi During State of Emergency

The Public Service Commission's restriction on utility disconnects is in place for 60 days. It does not eliminate the requirement that utility customers continue to pay bills, according to a press release.

Jackson State Student Tests Positive for Coronavirus

A Jackson State University student has tested positive for COVID-19. The student is currently isolated at home.

URGENT: Two Hinds County Cases of COVID-19 Confirmed Today, 10 Total in State

The Mississippi State Department of Health <added four new confirmed cases of the coronavirus to its website this morning—two of them in the Jackson metro area of Hinds County

Mississippi Governor Declares Emergency to Fight Coronavirus

Mississippi's governor declared a state of emergency to help fight coronavirus in the state and said he will work from home for two weeks after returning Friday from a family trip to Spain.

UMMC to Restrict Patient Visitation to Curb Spread of COVID-19

Effective Monday at noon, the University of Mississippi Medical Center will restrict visitors at its Jackson-based hospitals in an effort to lessen the spread of the novel coronavirus and help ensure the safety of patients, visitors, employees and students.

Two Mississippi Congressmen Skip Vote on COVID-19 Emergency Response Bill

Two Republican Mississippi Congressmen, U.S. Reps. Steven Palazzo and Trent Kelly, did not show up for a vote on the #FamiliesFirst Coronavirus Response Act.

State Says COVID-19 Tests Available, But Confusion Among Local Providers

Clinics and hospitals in the Jackson metro demurred on March 13 when the Jackson Free Press called seeking COVID-19 testing

Mississippi Governor Returning from Spain as Cases of Virus Rise

Gov. Tate Reeves, who has been in Spain with his family for a daughter's soccer tournament, is returning Friday, news outlets reported.

Trump Declares Virus Pandemic a National Emergency

President Donald Trump announced Friday that he is declaring the coronavirus pandemic a national emergency, as Washington struggles with providing Americans with relief and officials race to slow the spread of the outbreak.

'Do Not Go to Church': Three Forrest County Coronavirus Cases Bring Warnings

The Mississippi State Department of Health confirmed two more cases of COVID-19, the novel coronavirus, in Mississippi this morning. All three known patients currently reside in Forrest County.

Statement About Impact of Coronavirus on Hinds County School District Operations

"We have shared guidance will each of our school administrators that include detailed steps to promote a healthy school environment, and all of our parents have been sent a letter that provides information on ways they can help us prevent the spread of viruses."

Mississippi Reports Two More Positive Cases of Coronavirus

Today the Mississippi State Department of Health reports the second and third presumptive positive cases of coronavirus or COVID-19 in Mississippi. Final verification will come from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

State University Closures, USM Women's Suffrage Program and MSU Athlete Engineering Summit

Mississippi's eight public universities have modified the schedules for the spring semester classes to inhibit the spread of the coronavirus, extending Spring Break by an additional week and planning alternative online classes after the break ends on March 23.

Tyson Carter

Mississippi State University made SEC history when coaches in the conference named senior guard Tyson Carter as SEC Sixth Man of the Year, the first time an MSU player has earned the award in the history of Bulldog basketball.

COVID-19 Task Force Will Monitor Virus in Jackson, Decide School Closings

The capital city will have its own COVID-19 task force composed of city officials, public-health experts as well as institutional partners in the capital city's health-care system, Mayor Chokwe A. Lumumba announced at a press conference in City Hall this afternoon.

Thompson Writes DHS, HHS, CDC on Rationale, Implementation Plan for Trump’s Travel Ban After Contradictory Statements

"Based on all available data, mitigating the spread of this disease requires a comprehensive approach that encompasses our entire health care system rather than just containment measures targeted at foreign nationals.”

Mississippi Universities Extend Break, Plan Online Classes

Mississippi's eight public universities are extending their spring breaks and planning online classes to fight the spread of the new coronavirus, state higher education officials announced Thursday.

State on COVID-19 in Mississippi: Get Tested if Show Flu-Like Symptoms

Public health officials announced the first confirmed case of COVID-19 in Mississippi as the disease is declared a global pandemic by the World Health Organization. State leadership called for extraordinary caution for all residents, and laid out proper procedures for seeking testing.

EXPLAINER: COVID-19 in Mississippi: What to Do, What to Avoid

The Mississippi Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control are releasing information about the Coronavirus pandemic—and tips for avoiding—as a Forrest County man becomes the first known case here.

Jordan Feliz

The foundation for Christian music artist Jordan Feliz' professional solo career began to culminate only five hours after he and his wife moved to Nashville in 2012.

Build Your Emergency Supply Kit for COVID-19

"MEMA is assisting the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) in its response to the Coronavirus (COVID-19). We will help coordinate any additional resources MSDH may have during their planning, response and recovery stages."

Mississippi Event Cancellations Due to COVID-19 (Regularly Updated)

Officials in Jackson and across Mississippi are canceling major events and gatherings in an effort to prevent the spread of COVID-19. The following is a list of canceled events as the Jackson Free Press learns of them.

Hal's St. Paddy's Parade Cancelled in Effort to Fight Coronavirus Spread

The Hal's St. Paddy's Parade and Festival in Jackson has been cancelled in an effort to prevent the spread of COVID-19, parade co-founder Malcolm White told local news outlets Wednesday.

Mississippi Voters on Biden Landslide: 'Joe Knows Us, and We Know Joe'

Biden won Mississippi with an overwhelming 81.1% of the Democratic vote compared to Sanders' 14.8%. The majority of people who showed up at the polls in Hinds County—83.2%—voted for Biden, and 14.3% voted for Sanders.

Biden Draws 83% in Hinds County, Higher Than State Vote

Former Vice President Joe Biden drew just over 83 percent of the Hinds County vote in Democratic voting last night in his statewide rout of U.S. Bernie Sanders, who did not win any counties in the state.

Espy Wins Mississippi US Senate Race; Will Face Hyde-Smith

Former U.S. Agriculture Secretary Mike Espy won the Democratic nomination for a U.S. Senate seat in Mississippi on Tuesday, setting up a rematch with Republican Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith, an outspoken ally of President Donald Trump.

National Guard is Sent into New York Suburb to Control Virus

New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced Tuesday that he is sending the National Guard into a New York City suburb to help fight the nation's biggest known cluster of coronavirus cases, as the battle against the U.S. outbreak intensified.

Factchecking the Gang Law Bill, Sponsor’s Inconsistencies

"Some of these gangs certainly are (solid criminal enterprises), but it's not clear which ones, and I don't know that they know, either," de Gruy said. Furthermore, the public defender suggested that existing RICO laws already threaten gangs that have sophisticated, material power structures if and when their enterprises cross over into criminal conspiracy.

Sanders Surrogates Face Uphill Mississippi Battle In Candidate’s Absence

"This political process should be about bringing all of us in and not electing some savior who's going to do everything," Agnew said.

Leticia Alonso: JSU's Humanities Teacher of the Year

“I was interested in comparative literature because the concept of cultural convergence fascinates me. I’ve always wanted to travel, see the world and see how human interactions differ. I believe we can understand civilizations better by comparing them.”

Mississippi Among 6 States with Presidential Primary Tuesday

Voters in Mississippi's Democratic presidential primary Tuesday were choosing between two leading candidates and a third whose delegate count lagged far behind.

Biden in Mississippi: Credits the 'African American Community' for Comeback

Themes of unity and overcoming hate penetrated the remarks of former Vice President Joe Biden and his supporters during the Democratic presidential hopeful's visit to Jackson yesterday.

OPINION: Sycophantic Dem Establishment Aligning Against Bernie Sanders

University of Mississippi professor Joe Atkins, a Bernie Sanders supporter, argues that the Democratic "establishment" is working against the Vermont senator's chance at the presidency.

B&B Theaters Northpark Grand Opening, Walthall Lofts and Vertex Aerospace

Northpark announced on Wednesday, March 4, that it plans to hold the grand opening for B&B Theaters, a new 14-screen movie theater, in April 2020.

PATRIOT South Tests Pearl River Flood Responders

U.S. Army National Guard units joined with state agency personnel this week at Camp Shelby near Hattiesburg, including some of Jackson's own first responders, drilling the coordination and cohesion necessary in a massive natural disaster.

Bea Gotthelf: Jacksonian Celebrates Her 100th Birthday

While reaching 100 years of age is a milestone that not everybody manages to achieve, today, Jackson native and long-time resident Bea Gotthelf celebrates her 100th birthday.

Best of Jackson 2020 Medical Ballot

Best of Jackson "pop-up" ballots are designed to get answers to a few critical questions facing the our JFP readership-in this case, we're talking about all things medical. Time to nominate your favorites! Who is the best doctor, dentist, nurse practitioner and more.

House Homeland Security Chairman Thompson Endorses Biden

U.S. Rep. Bennie Thompson, Mississippi's only Democratic congressman, said Thursday that he's endorsing former Vice President Joe Biden for president, days ahead of the state's presidential primary.

Project EJECT Or Not: Mayor Disputes Grant Connection to Federal Strategy

A new federal grant to help the Jackson Police Department purchase new surveillance equipment is not part of the controversial Project EJECT crime strategy, Mayor Chokwe A. Lumumba insisted this week.

UM Space Exhibit, USM Women's History Month and MSU Law Seminar

The University of Mississippi's Department of Archives and Special Collections will host "Space: Exploring the Final Frontier in the Archives" in the Faulkner Room of the J.D. Williams Library throughout 2020.

Ledarius Woods

The exceptional season is bringing a first for Tougaloo as senior forward Ledarius Woods has been named a finalist for the Howell Trophy, which goes to the best men's basketball player from a four-year college or university.

Bill Says Mississippi Could Check for Voters' US Citizenship

Republican Secretary of State Michael Watson, Mississippi's top elections official, told lawmakers Tuesday that he wants the power to check whether registered voters in the state are also U.S. citizens.

Mississippi ToyCon in Brandon

The inaugural Mississippi ToyCon took place on Saturday, Feb. 22, at the Brandon Civic Center. The event featured more than 40 vendors selling vintage and modern toys, comics and collectibles, as well as cosplayers, prizes and more.

Home Is Where the Office Is

To allow Jacksonians the chance to give a shoutout to their workplace homes, we include the Best Place to Work category in our annual Best of Jackson issue.

Opera Mississippi’s New Incarnation

Since its founding in 1945 as the Jackson Opera Guild, the arts organization formerly known as the Mississippi Opera Association has gone through a number of changes.

Keri Horn: Voiceover Queen in Blue Jeans

Like a lot of children growing up in the '80s, Keri Horn loved to watch cartoons like "The Smurfs" and "The Care Bears." But she might have been one of the children approaching the television set with a tape recorder.

St. Patrick’s Day JXN Goodies Galore

We all love the fun that comes with St. Patrick's Day, but let's not forget that the capital city also houses a number of restaurants that offer specialty food and drink items.

Mike Moore: When Life Gives You Headaches, Help Others

Sometimes a headache isn't just a headache. Yazoo City native Michael Moore learned this lesson firsthand in 2018 when he took ill with a bacterial infection and was taken to St. Dominic Hospital.

Old Spaces, New Faces

Spring inches ever closer, and to coincide with the season of renewal, let's review a list of recently opened businesses that have breathed new life into some older buildings and spaces in the Jackson metro.

Flourishing in Spite of a Flood

With every issue of BOOM Jackson, we like to reflect on the progress and developments that have occurred over the last quarter. From renovations to flooding, these last three months have seen a lot.

Mississippi Lady Panthers on the Prowl

In August 2018, Cameron Veal and LaSteven Jackson talked about putting on a women's flag-football game for charity. This discussion laid the foundation for the Mississippi Lady Panthers.

Shoestring on the Rise

Students in Operation Shoestring's Project Rise after-school program were in for a special treat when they returned in January to a newly renovated state-of-the-art facility in central Jackson.

One Lake, Few Alternatives: A Primer

Many of the concerns surrounding One Lake remain unresolved and, to date, the Levee Board has declined to host a public forum to take questions from the audience openly, instead opting for only accepting written questions and allowing one-on-one conversations.

The Siemens Settlement, Explained

Jackson's saga of a troubled contract with Siemens Inc. and subcontractors for new water meters seemed to come to an end on Feb. 19 when Mayor Chokwe A. Lumumba announced an $89.8-million settlement with the multinational corporation.

EDITOR'S NOTE: Challenges of a Baby-Faced Editor

"Instead of burdening myself with unnecessary, self-imposed concerns that weigh me down, I have come to better realize that I should have more confidence in myself and more faith in others."

Acacia Clippert

Moving to a new area for work can have its challenges. For Murrah High School economics teacher Acacia Clippert, the transition from Michigan to Mississippi validated her decision to follow her chosen career path.

Gang Bill Trying to Be a Baby RICO Mob Bill, But Too Wide, Critics Say

The Jackson Free Press recently asked Sen. Brice Wiggins if his push for Senate Bill 2459 is a way for Mississippi to have its own little Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act. He looked surprised at the question, but answered yes.

Mississippi Seeks Abortion Ban for Race, Sex, Genetic Error

Mississippi's Republican-led Legislature is trying to restrict the reasons women may seek abortion, after federal courts blocked time limitations that the state tried to put on the procedure the past two years.

Mississippi Gets About $16M from New Lottery Since November

Mississippi has collected about $16 million from a state lottery that started operating in November.

'An Abortion Desert': Mississippi Women May Feel Effect of Louisiana Case

A Louisiana abortion law would turn the Bayou State into "an abortion desert" and would have strong ripple effects for women in Mississippi and other states across the country, opponents say. The U.S. Supreme Court is hearing arguments in the case Wednesday.