Saturday, May 30
At 439 Cases, COVID-19 Hits Another High Just Before 'Safe Return' Kicks In
On Friday, testing confirmed that 439 new people have COVID-19 in the state of Mississippi, the highest one-day total since the Mississippi State Department of Health began reporting test results. Those 439 come on the heels of the 418 reported for Thursday, which was the previous high.
Friday, May 29
WIC Benefits Soon Available Through EBT Cards
The Mississippi State Department of Health Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children is transitioning from a direct distribution food system to a retail food system via an electronic benefit transfer card.
Governor Tate Reeves Launches Back to Business Mississippi Website to Help Small Businesses Recover from COVID-19
Today, Governor Tate Reeves announced the launch of the Back to Business Mississippi Grant Program website to help small businesses receive financial support quickly to recover from the devastating economic impacts of COVID-19.
Azia’s Virtual Picks 5-29-20
If you’re still remaining cautious and feel safer at home, there are still many virtual options to turn to for entertainment. Check out my picks for this weekend to see what calls out to you.
Council Hires New Clerk, Deputy Clerk; County approves $200,000 for Clinton Bridge
The City of Jackson has appointed Shenakia Mosley as council clerk, and John Carroll Sr, as chief deputy clerk, following the recent creation of those positions.
Jackson Airport Traffic Down by 85 percent, Receiving $8.4 Million in CARES Funds
The effect of COVID-19 has been severe in Jackson's aviation industry. Paul Brown, the chief executive officer of the Jackson Municipal Airport Authority, revealed on May 26 that daily flights have plunged from 25 to seven.
With 418 Cases, Mississippi Sees Highest Day of COVID-19 Right Before 'Safe Return'
With Gov. Tate Reeves allowing businesses and most public facilities to fully open on Monday, June 1, with his “Safe Return” order, the Mississippi Department of Health reported its highest one-day tally of people testing positive for COVID-19 today.
Lauren Rhoades
Lauren Rhoades, director of the Eudora Welty House & Garden in Jackson, has held her current position since April 2019.
Mississippi Hospital Lays Off 250 to Offset COVID-19 Losses
The University of Mississippi Medical Center has laid off 250 employees to offset financial losses due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Mississippi Mayor Flouts Calls to Resign Over Floyd Comments
Petal Mayor Hal Marx, who sparked outrage when he said he “didn’t see anything unreasonable” about the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis police custody, is resisting calls to resign, including from his own town's board of aldermen.
Thursday, May 28
Job Losses Continue to Mount in US Despite Reopenings
The coronavirus crisis threw at least 2.1 million Americans out of work last week despite the gradual reopening of businesses around the country, stoking fears Thursday that the scourge is doing deep and potentially long-lasting damage to the U.S. economy.
COVID-19 Cluster Related to Northeast Mississippi Funeral
Today the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) is reporting a cluster of COVID-19 infections related to a recent funeral in Northeast Mississippi.
Mississippi Fully Opening as COVID-19 Cases Grow, State Naming Nursing Homes
Mississippi’s transitional COVID-19 shutdown period is slated to end Monday, June 1, with the end of Gov. Tate Reeves’ “Safer At Home” executive order and the beginning of what he is calling a “Safe Return” order.
OPINION: From Curfew to SWAT Team, Mayor Lumumba’s Police State Expanding
Suggesting he is against the governor’s hasty reopening of the economy and in response to the COVID-19 virus, while jabbering about “science and data,” the mayor says “we” don’t have the luxury of “a wait-and-see approach.”
Thrive in Five at MSU, MSU and USM Waiving Application Requirements
Mississippi State University recently launched its new Thrive in Five accelerated degree program, which will allow students to earn both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in five years.
Jake Mangum
Former Mississippi State University star Jake Mangum is one of those players waiting to learn whether he is going to get to play baseball in 2020.
Mississippi Legislators Could Extend Their Disrupted Session
The Republican-led Mississippi Legislature is working to extend its session that has already been disrupted by the coronavirus pandemic.
Wednesday, May 27
Mayoral Curfew Order City of Jackson
Jackson Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba issued a proclamation continuing the civil emergency initially issued on March 16 in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Governor Tate Reeves Announces Safe Return for Mississippi in Final Stages of Reopening Economy
Today, Governor Tate Reeves announced his Safer At Home order will be ending on June 1 to be replaced by new guidance for the next stage of economic recovery for Mississippi.
Judge: Health Department Must Respond to Public Records Request
A Mississippi judge ruled Tuesday that the state Health Department must respond to a newspaper's public records request about long-term care facilities where outbreaks of the new coronavirus have occurred.
Framing Like a Boss, Calby Boss
Calby Boss, owner of Calby's Fine Custom Framing in Flowood, offers specialized framing, art and photograph restoration, mirror repair and more.
Empty Atlas Goes ‘Maximal’
“There will never be an end to all the blood and sweat I’ll lend to make it work,” sings former Jackson Free Press music editor Micah Smith, the leader of indie-rock band Empty Atlas.
Rad Grads 2020
This month, students across the globe graduated from their colleges or universities. These graduates have spent countless hours studying, giving presentations and otherwise working hard to earn their degrees so that they may be better equipped to enter their chosen fields.
Of Water, Heat and Asphalt: An Essential Journey to Paving Robinson Road
Jordan Brown, a car seller, has a deep connection to Robinson Road. He started working with his father in his auto-services business on the thoroughfare that runs through west and south Jackson in 1999 when he bought the current building where his company operates.
COVID-19: UMMC Expert on Emerging Knowledge of the Virus
In March, Dr. Bhagyashri Navalkele watched the crowds gathering on America’s beaches during spring break with a heavy weight on her shoulders.
EDITOR'S NOTE: Dear Dr. Dobbs, Mississippi Needs Precise COVID-19 Data
It’s often been a slog to get good and relevant information about the spread of the coronavirus that isn’t either confusing or incomplete, or what we get may combine apples and oranges.
MHA, MSMA Urge Patients to Seek Care in Clinics and Hospitals to Protect Their Health
The Mississippi Hospital Association and Mississippi State Medical Association are encouraging patients to seek care in the state’s clinics and hospitals, especially Mississippians who have chronic illnesses or need emergency care.
Ira Murray and the 'Spirit of Jackson'
Ira Murray made Jackson his home for a second time after accepting the position of president and CEO with the United Way of the Capital Area.
Tuesday, May 26
After Video Emerges, JPD Investigating Officer Over Rough Treatment, Threats
A Jackson police officer captured by video Friday pinning a young man by the neck backward to the top of a car is on administrative leave pending an Internal Affairs investigation.
OPINION: Watson’s Voting Views: Dressing Jim Crow Up in New Clothes
"In the shadow of Mississippi’s incredibly fraught history with voting, (Mississippi Secretary of State Michael) Watson rails against the bogeyman of potential voter fraud with the clear intent to keep minorities from voting."
Mississippi Universities Told to Prep for In-Person Classes
A governing board is asking leaders of Mississippi's eight public universities to prepare for at least some classes on campus during the fall semester, even amid the coronavirus pandemic.
Mississippi In Deep Recession Facing Long Recovery, 273 New Cases of COVID-19
Mississippi is suffering the effects of a COVID-19-induced recession, deeper than any since the end of World War II, and can expect a long recovery even after it ends, State Economist Dr. Darrin Webb said at a Senate Appropriations Committee hearing this morning.
City to Repave 13 Jackson Streets Using $5.3 Million of 1% Tax Money
Thirteen Jackson streets are now on a repaving list for 2020, Mayor Chokwe A. Lumumba announced Friday.
Dining on Duling, Museum of Art Extensions and Elvie’s Reopening
The Fondren Renaissance Foundation recently announced that Duling Avenue in downtown Jackson will close from June 12-13 and and serve as an open-air dining hall as part of FRF's "Dining on Duling" event.
Aimee Nezhukumatathil
Aimee Nezhukumatathil, a University of Mississippi professor who has published four collections of poetry, has been named a Guggenheim Fellow.
Saturday, May 23
Lumumba's New Robocall Pleads with Jacksonians: No Large Cookouts, Block Parties
"I ask everyone to resist attending any large gatherings such as cookouts or block parties this holiday weekend. We want you to enjoy yourselves, but we are not out of the woods, yet," the mayor said in the robocall.
May 23: Mississippi Tops 13,000 COVID-19 Cases, Daily Average Climbs
After two near-record days of new reported cases of COVID-19, the total number of cases in Mississippi since the outbreak began has topped 13,000.
Friday, May 22
The State View: News from MSU
"As we launch our 2020 Summer Semester, I want to update everyone in the MSU family on our ongoing planning processes for the 2020 Fall Semester."
Mobile COVID-19 Testing Set for Hinds, George and Leake Counties
Residents of Hinds, George and Leake counties and surrounding communities can be tested for COVID-19 next 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.
Lumumba Extends Curfew for Five Days, Hinds County Workers Resume Tuesday
As a precaution against the spread of COVID-19 in Jackson, Mayor Chokwe A. Lumumba has extended the 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. citywide curfew for five more days through Monday, May 25, which is Memorial Day.
Governor Tate Reeves Extends Safer At Home Order to Continue Flattening the Curve
On Friday, May 22, Governor Tate Reeves announced the next steps for Mississippi to continue safely reopening the state's economy and getting people back to work while protecting public health.
OPINION: Mayor Lumumba Remains Silent on Predatory Culture of Jackson Police
Recently, at a press conference Mayor Chokwe Lumumba said that none of the “outside agitators” who opposed the disarming of Jackson’s overwhelming black population cared enough about the issue of innocent children’s lives being taken to say their names.
Mississippi Reports 402 New COVID-19 Cases, Admits Testing Totals Mix In Antibody Tests
Mississippi State Department of Health’s COVID-19 testing totals include both traditional viral tests and antibody tests, a metric national health experts insist must not be included in testing totals.
Azia’s Virtual Picks 5-22-20
I hope that you are remaining safe and continuing to follow CDC guidelines to protect your family, yourself and your community. If you’re still remaining cautious like me, check out some of the virtual events I’ve had my eye on.
Sean Tindell
Mississippi Court of Appeals Judge Sean Tindell of Gulfport is in line to become the new public safety commissioner in Mississippi.
Some Mississippi Casinos Reopen After 2-Month Virus Hiatus
Some casinos in Mississippi reopened Thursday for the first time in two months, following state guidelines to try to mitigate the spread of the new coronavirus.
Thursday, May 21
Mayor Lumumba Releases New Order of Curfew
Jackson Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba released an order of curfew on Thursday, May 21.
Infamous Ex-Angola Warden Is Reeves' Choice To Lead Beleaguered Mississippi Prisons
Burl Cain, the infamous ex-warden of Louisiana’s Angola prison, is Gov. Tate Reeves’ choice to lead the Mississippi Department of Corrections out of the morass in the state’s prisons that the governor inherited at the start of his term, a culmination of prison issues that grew during his two terms as lieutenant governor.
MSU PPE Sterilizer and COVID-19 Resource Page, JSU Online New Student Orientation Page
The Center for Advanced Vehicular Systems at MSU recently designed and donated a device that can sterilize up to seven personal protective masks in 30 minutes to the Mississippi State Veterans Home in Kosciusko as part of an effort to combat the COVID-19 pandemic.
Ben Williams
Robert Jerry “Ben” Williams Jr and James Reed made history as the first African Americans to receive a scholarship to play football at the University of Mississippi.
Mississippi Church Suing on Virus Restrictions Burns Down
A church in Mississippi was destroyed by a suspected arson fire, about a month after its pastor filed a lawsuit challenging the city of Holly Springs on gathering restrictions amid the coronavirus outbreak.
Mississippi Governor OKs Business Grants from Virus Relief Fund
Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves said Wednesday that he is signing a bill that creates a $300 million grant program for small businesses hurt by the coronavirus pandemic.
Wednesday, May 20
Reeves: New Corrections and Public Safety Leaders, Still No Nursing Home Names
Gov. Tate Reeves is expected to announce new leadership for the Mississippi Department of Corrections and the Department of Public Safety today, bringing new oversight to the two state agencies.
Hinds, Jackson, Byram Forming Joint SWAT to Militarize Response to Crime
Hinds County is forming a new special weapons and tactics, or SWAT team, in response to violence and crime in parts of Jackson, including the Queens in west Jackson.
Krista Shows, 'Prone to Wander'
While she now resides near Asheville, N.C., Krista Shows is a Mississippi girl at heart. The 31-year-old music artist who called Jackson her home from the time she was 5 years old to her graduation from Madison Central High School released a new album titled “Prone to Wander” on May 1.
Voting Rights Advocates Criticize US Appeals Court Nominee
The American Bar Association is rating a Mississippi judge as “well qualified,” but Cory Wilson's federal appeals court nomination is drawing opposition from advocates for voting rights, expanded access to health care and marriage equality, among a range of Democratic priorities that Wilson has pilloried.
Oprah Winfrey Gives Grants to ‘Home’ Cities During Pandemic
Oprah Winfrey is giving grants to the cities she’s called home through her $12 million coronavirus relief fund.
$9M in Highway Contracts Set from Mississippi Lottery Money
The Mississippi Transportation Commission says it has awarded nearly $9 million in pavement restoration contracts, using money generated by the state lottery that started selling tickets in November.
Tuesday, May 19
Governor Tate Reeves Releases Guidelines for In-Person Worship Services
Today, Governor Tate Reeves released social distancing and sanitation guidelines for in-person worship services to safely resume across Mississippi.
Mobile COVID-19 Testing Set for Leake and Hinds Counties
Residents of Leake and Hinds 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.
Feed the Front Lines, SB 2772 and Mississippi Casinos Reopening
The Mangia Bene restaurant group has partnered with the Junior League of Jackson to send food to the healthcare workers at the VA Medical Center in Jackson through a program called "Feed the Front Line."
OPINION: Virologist on Vital COVID-19 Safety Changes, from Toothbrushes to Nose-Picking
Dr. Cedric O. Buckley, a virologist working with Jackson Mayor Chokwe A. Lumumba, warns that the way we usually store our toothbrushes could result in COVID-19 infection.
Reeves to Help 'Safely Resume' In-Person Church Services, 27 New COVID-19 Deaths in MS
Gov. Tate Reeves will provide guidance to the state’s churches today, in an attempt to help “safely resume” in-person services, the governor tweeted this morning.
HHS Delivers $91,086,258 to Expand Testing Capacity in Mississippi
The Department of Health and Human Services is delivering $91,086,258 in new funding to Mississippi to support testing for COVID-19.
Jhai Keeton, 'Creating New Value' in Jackson
Jackson resident Jhai Keeton took on a position as the City's deputy director of planning and development in January earlier this year, in which he oversees economic, business and real estate development for the city.
Pandemic Threatens to Deepen Crisis in Mental Health Care
Even before COVID-19, access to mental health services in the U.S. could be difficult, including for people who have insurance. Now experts fear the virus will make the situation worse, putting the patients most in need at risk of falling through the cracks and inflicting on countless others newfound grief, anxiety and depression.
Monday, May 18
Analysis: Mississippi to Mull Many Requests for Relief Cash
Mississippi lawmakers and Gov. Tate Reeves still have to make big decisions about spending most of the $1.25 billion that the federal government is sending the state for coronavirus relief.
Inmate Dies 1 Day After Arriving in Mississippi Prison
An autopsy will be done on Robert Bond Jr., 51, a Mississippi inmate who died a day after arriving in in Central Mississippi Correctional Facility in Pearl on Thursday, May 14.
Trump Says He's Taking Malaria Drug to Protect Against Virus
President Donald Trump said Monday that he is taking a malaria drug to protect against the new coronavirus, despite warnings from his own government that it should only be administered for COVID-19 in a hospital or research setting due to potentially fatal side effects.
Mississippi Governor's 'Safer at Home' Order Enters Final Week
Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves' “safer at home” order to slow the spread of the new coronavirus is entering its final week.
City, Businesses Offer $12,500 Reward for Arrest, Conviction of Jackson Child’s Killer
Ward 3 Councilman Kenneth Stokes led the effort for the City of Jackson to offer a $2,500 award for the arrest and conviction of those who killed 5-year-old Qeenyanna Davis on April 15.
Press Sues MSDH for Nursing Home Names As COVID-19 Cases Top 11,000
Mississippi saw 136 official new coronavirus cases and seven deaths as of 6 p.m. on Sunday, May 17, bringing the total number of statewide cases to 11,432 and deaths to 528, as many Mississippi businesses began reopening over the weekend.
Taylor Hart
Taylor Hart, development director and event coordinator with the Salvation Army of Jackson, bears a passion for missions. Hart has heart.
Sunday, May 17
May 17: Average COVID-19 Cases Down Overall, But Week Ends With High Numbers
The day after Gov. Tate Reeves announced a path for reopening tattoo parlors, Mississippi hit milestones of more than 11,000 cases of COVID-19 and passed 500 deaths.
Friday, May 15
Governor Reeves Announces Interim Director for Mississippi Development Authority
Today, Governor Tate Reeves announced that John Rounsaville will lead the Mississippi Development Authority as Interim Director to continue growing our state's economy and win business for Mississippi.
Mayor Lumumba Eases Restrictions on Businesses; Urges Continued Vigilance
Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba is slowly re-opening the Capital City following months of lockdown due to COVID-19, while acknowledging that data does not yet reflect that Jackson or the State of Mississippi has experienced a decline in the rate of new COVID-19 cases.
Governor Tate Reeves Amends Safer At Home Order to Safely Reopen Tattoo Parlors
Today, Governor Tate Reeves announced the next step for Mississippi to continue safely reopening the state's economy and getting people back to work while flattening the curve of COVID-19.
COVID-19 Cases Crest Above 10,000 in State, Rare Complications in Children Found
Mississippi reached a grim new milestone in the spread of COVID-19 across the state on Thursday, as the Mississippi State Department of Health announced the total count of detections has topped 10,000 as of late Wednesday.
Azia’s Virtual Picks 5-15-20
If you're staying home like me and still need some interesting events to take part in from home, check out my virtual picks for this coming week.
Governor: Virus Relief Grants Will Aid 'Main Street, Mississippi'
Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves said Thursday that he expects to sign a bill to create grants for small businesses by using part the state's coronavirus relief money.
Mississippi Casinos to Reopen Before Memorial Day Weekend
The Mississippi Gaming Commission said Thursday that casinos in the state can start reopening May 21—more than two months after the commission closed them because of the coronavirus pandemic.
Thursday, May 14
Hinds County District Five Supervisor to Provide Relief to Elderly Residents
In an effort to provide assistance during the COVID-19 pandemic to one of Hinds County’s vulnerable populations, Hinds County District 5 Supervisor Bobby McGowan will be hosting a series of giveaways this weekend to and for senior citizens who reside in his district.
How to Spend Siemens Settlement Creates Ruckus Between Mayor, Council
How the City of Jackson will spend the $89.8 million recovered in the Siemens settlement has generated a ruckus between the mayor and the Jackson City Council.
Legislature Sends $300 Million in Relief Funds to Mississippi Small Businesses
The Mississippi Legislature passed a $300-million stimulus bill directed at Mississippi’s small businesses on Wednesday night, putting a declarative end to the debate over who would appropriate $1.25 billion in CARES Act funds, and how to administer the money.
USM Virtual EagleTHON, Millsaps Campus Reopening and The Haven Promise
Student organizations at the University of Southern Mississippi recently held their annual dance marathon event, EagleTHON, virtually for the first time due to COVID-19 campus closures.
Jaylyn Willims
We will never know what would have happened in regard to spring college sports. Basketball ended right before national tournaments and college baseball and softball ended shortly after getting started.
Mississippi Legislature Votes for Business Grants Amid Virus
Mississippi legislators voted late Wednesday to create grant programs for small businesses hurt by the coronavirus pandemic, using some of the $1.25 billion in relief money that the federal government is sending the state.
Wednesday, May 13
State Superintendent of Education Presents Statewide Digital Learning Plan to Mississippi Legislature
Dr. Carey Wright, state superintendent of education, testified before the Mississippi Senate Education Committee outlining the Mississippi Department of Education’s plan to connect all Mississippi children to the internet so schools can deliver high-quality instruction digitally.
‘Stay Safe Jackson’ Order Reopens Capital City Due to Effect of State Order on Businesses
The capital city is headed into the first phase of reopening for two weeks starting Saturday, May 16, when Jackson Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba’s “Stay at Home” executive order lapses.
I See You, Now See Yourself
D'Artagnan Winford has been an artist since he was a kid, growing up taking art classes in school and being admitted in a gifted arts program throughout middle and high school.
A Farm-to-Table Heirloom
Doris Berry Farmers Market, a local whole food—and woman-owned—institution in the greater Jackson area, has been active for about seven decades.
Best of Jackson: Medical 2020
As we as Jacksonians endure this pandemic the best we can, wellness and health care is at the forefront of many of our minds. Here at the Jackson Free Press, we want to ease the process of finding medical professionals who can take care of your needs, however broad or specific.
Zac Harmon, Raised Under Jackson’s Limitless Sky
Zac Harmon may have left Jackson in his adult years to bolster his career as an award-winning guitarist, singer and songwriter who specializes in American blues, but he has always kept the lessons learned in his southern upbringing close to his heart.
‘We Have Not Met Our Peak’: Dr. LouAnn Woodward on UMMC’s Battle Against COVID-19
LouAnn Woodward spoke to the Jackson Free Press about the breakthroughs in testing and treatment at the University of Mississippi Medical Center, as well as the state's larger coronavirus strategy.
Mississippi Unites to Combat COVID-19 Crisis
In the wake of COVID-19, many Mississippians and Mississippi-based schools, businesses and organizations have banded together to help residents across the state cope through the crisis, be it through donations of time, money and resources.
Continuing on, Despite Pandemic
Despite setbacks from the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the City of Jackson is still moving forward. Here are just some of the latest developments taking place in and around the capital city.
Learning Through Nature, Tinkergarten
Tinkergarten program classes provide children with the opportunity to develop life skills such as empathy, collaboration, creativity, cooperation, persistence and problem-solving through outdoor play experiences.
Road to a Gentleman’s Surrender: Gov. Tate Reeves Strikes Hard, Then Bows to Legislature
To hear it from (Tate) Reeves, the Legislature fiddled while Mississippi burned, gambling with the lives and livelihoods of its people through unnecessary legalistic dissembling.
PUBLISHER'S NOTE: We’re All Living in Tate Reeves’ Pottery Barn Now
As Gov. Tate Reeves learned this past week, the most powerful public office in Mississippi isn't actually that of governor.
Joscelyn Allen
Amid a pandemic, Joscelyn Allen, 34, is grateful to work as a nurse. "I feel lucky to have chosen a profession I love," she says, adding that it is rewarding to watch COVID-19 patients get better.
Tuesday, May 12
Mississippi Governor Tightens Virus Rules in 7 Hard-Hit Counties
Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves said Tuesday that he is tightening regulations in parts of the state seeing the fastest spread of the new coronavirus.
COVID-19 Update: Hospitalizations Down, Almost Half State Deaths in Care Facilities
State Health Officer Thomas Dobbs displayed cautious optimism at yesterday’s coronavirus presser, based on a slackening in hospitalizations statewide.
OPINION: Sick and Tired: What It Feels Like to Be Black in America
Columnist Duvalier Malone writes that well-intentioned white people must “step outside the bubble of your white privilege” to make a real difference for black Americans’ equality and safety.
Supreme Court Hearing Clash Over Trump Tax, Bank Records
The Supreme Court is taking up President Donald Trump’s bid to keep his tax, bank and financial records private, a major clash over presidential accountability that could affect the 2020 presidential campaign.
Monday, May 11
Gov. Reeves Extends Unemployment Benefits to Help Workers Impacted by COVID-19
Today, Governor Tate Reeves announced efforts to extend the unemployment benefits provided to help Mississippi workers and their families hard-hit by COVID-19.
COVID-19 Cases, Hospitalizations Slump Today as Mississippi Continues to Reopen
Gov. Tate Reeves’ safer-at-home order continues this week, with notable exceptions, as the Mississippi State Department of Health announces 173 new cases of COVID-19 and five new deaths from Sunday reports.
Ron Harrist
Ron Harrist, who covered Elvis Presley, black separatists, white supremacists and college football legends during his 41 years as a reporter and editor in Mississippi for The Associated Press, died of complications from leukemia at his home in Brandon early Saturday, his son Andy Harrist said. He was 77.
City Announces Robinson Road Repaving Project; Stay-At-Home Order Still in Effect
Robinson Road will see a three-phase repaving project made possible through a partnership between the City of Jackson and the Hinds County Board of Supervisors, Jackson Mayor Chokwe A. Lumumba announced last week.
Analysis: Reeves Tries to Balance Concerns of Health, Jobs
Mississippi Republican Gov. Tate Reeves is having to balance his libertarian-leaning instincts with public health concerns during the coronavirus pandemic.
Visit Jackson 2020 Tour Guide, Mississippi Restaurant Promise and Fresh Market Fundraiser
Visit Jackson recently released its 2020 Tour Guide, which includes 82 pages of information and creative content on Jackson's neighborhoods, public art, restaurants and more.
Saturday, May 9
May 9: Daily Average of COVID-19 Cases Keeps Climbing As More Businesses Open
The day after Gov. Tate Reeves once again relaxed his "safer-at-home" order, the Mississippi State Department of Health reported 288 new cases of COVID-19 and 12 more deaths they attribute to the virus. The total number of reported cases since March 11 is now 9,378.
Friday, May 8
Azia’s Virtual Picks 5/7/2020
"In times like these, it’s easy to give in to hopelessness. I know it’s been hard. I know it’s been painful. I know it's been intense; but don’t give in, don’t give up. I hope you find ways to build yourself up during this time."
OPINION: In 50 Years from Gibbs-Green Deaths to Ahmaud Arbery Killing, White Supremacy Still Lives
Informed by the modern civil rights and Black Power movements, Jackson State University students organized in the 1960s to protest persistent white supremacy in the state and on their campus. Those demonstrations began annually in earnest in 1964.
Governor Reeves Extends 'Safer At Home,' Reopens Barbershops and Salons
Today, Governor Tate Reeves announced the next stage for Mississippi to continue safely reopening the state's economy while protecting public health.
As COVID-19 Cases Hit New High, Legislature Prevails Over Governor In CARES Act Battle
The same day the fight over control of $1.25 billion in CARES Act relief funds for Mississippi appeared to end, giving the legislative branch a win, Mississippi suffered its greatest increase in confirmed cases of COVID-19 yet in one day.
Christopher Kochtitzky: A Good Agent, A Good Man
Jackson lost a favored son on Sunday May 3 in the death of Christopher “Chris” Kochtitzky in Atlanta. “Chris was always interested in—and promoting—Jackson. He was our ‘ambassador’ so-to-speak at the CDC,” says Scott Crawford of Jackson, a longtime friend.
Mayor Lumumba Announces Inter-local Agreement to Repave Robinson Road
On Wednesday, May 6, Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba along with Hinds County Supervisor Credell Calhoun announced the Robinson Road Repaving Project.
Thursday, May 7
Mississippi Governor and Lawmakers Claim Unity on Virus Spending
Mississippi Republican Gov. Tate Reeves did a dramatic about-face Thursday, saying that state legislators will have a role in deciding how to spend $1.25 billion the state is receiving from the federal government as part of a massive coronavirus relief package.
Two Days of Record COVID-19 Deaths Precede Mississippi Reopening
Mississippi is on track to reopen its parks and restaurants today, as what Gov. Tate Reeves calls the COVID-19 “plateau” continues. This morning, MSDH reported 262 new cases of coronavirus disease detected yesterday, as well as 22 deaths
City of Jackson Sues Canadian National Railway Over Blocked Railroad Underpass
The City of Jackson filed a lawsuit against Canadian National Railway demanding that the company reopen a blocked railroad underpass at Walter Dutch Welch Drive in west Jackson.
Darryl Williams
Former Mississippi State University center Darryl Williams must have been highly sought after by teams after the draft, as he landed a major undrafted free agent contract with the Kansas City Chiefs.
Virtual Graduation Events at JSU and UM, MSU JROTC-CS Computer Program
In light of official commencement ceremonies being delayed to COVID-19 related campus shutdowns, Jackson State University will hold a virtual “2020 Celebration of Graduates” on Saturday, May 9, beginning at noon.
Drive-by Shooting Charge Added Against Restaurant Co-Owner
Another felony charge has been filed against Greta Brown-Bully, the co-owner of a Mississippi restaurant who is accused of fatally shooting a man.
Mississippi Governor Says Pandemic No 'Excuse' to Release Inmates
Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves said Wednesday that the state will not consider early release for prisoners during the coronavirus pandemic, even with inmates living in conditions that make social distancing difficult.
Favre Repaying $1.1 M for No-Show Speeches, Auditor Says
Former NFL quarterback Brett Favre is repaying $1.1 million in welfare money that he received for multiple speeches where he did not show up, the Mississippi state auditor said Wednesday.
Wednesday, May 6
Imani Skipwith
Belhaven University is awarding its first Angie Thomas Writers Scholarship to Imani Skipwith of Jackson, the university announced Tuesday.
COVID-19 Growing Near State’s Meat Processing Plants
Gov. Tate Reeves acknowledges that cases of coronavirus disease are spiking near the state’s meatpacking industries, and reminded Mississippians that immunocompromised and elderly residents are still under a shelter-at-home order.
The Second Virus Wave: How Bad Will It Be as Lockdowns Ease?
Health authorities are increasingly warning that the question isn’t whether a second wave of coronavirus infections and deaths will hit, but when — and how badly.
Mississippi Legislators to Consider Virus Aid to Businesses
Mississippi legislators will be back at work Thursday to consider proposals to help businesses that have been hurt by the coronavirus outbreak, House and Senate leaders said Tuesday.
Trump: COVID-19 Task Force Not Dismantling, Just Refocusing
One day after saying that the COVID-19 task force would be winding down, President Donald Trump said Wednesday that it would continue indefinitely, but focus more on rebooting the economy.
Tuesday, May 5
2020 Session to Reconvene Thursday, Legislators Release Plan to Help Small Businesses
By agreement of Lieutenant Governor Delbert Hosemann and Speaker of the House Philip Gunn, the Mississippi Legislature will reconvene the 2020 Legislative Session at 1 p.m. on Thursday, May 7, 2020.
UPDATE: 32 Deaths From COVID-19 Reported In One Day As State Reopens
Thirty-two more Mississippians have died as a result of COVID-19, 18 of those from yesterday alone: the largest single-day death toll in the crisis so far.
Valerie Linn
Valerie Linn, executive director of Magnolia Speech School in Jackson, has held her current position since August 2014.
Two Inmates Die After Falling Ill at Mississippi Prisons
Two Mississippi inmates have died in hospitals after becoming ill in state prisons, the state Department of Corrections said.
Auditor: Brett Favre Received Mississippi Welfare Money for No-Show Speeches
A nonprofit group caught up in an embezzlement scheme in Mississippi used federal welfare money to pay former NFL quarterback Brett Favre $1.1 million for multiple speaking engagements but Favre did not show up for the events, the state auditor said Monday.
Monday, May 4
Gov. Reeves Amends 'Safer At Home' Order to Reopen Restaurants and Parks
On Monday, May 4, Gov. Tate Reeves announced the next phase for Mississippi to begin "slowly and safely" reopening the state's economy while continuing to flatten the curve.
Q&A: Yung Jewelz, Mental Health and Representing Mississippi
Rapper Yung Jewelz spoke with Culture Writer Aliyah Veal about her new album, “MVP: Moods, Vices and Problems.”
UPDATED: Reeves: State Will Continue Reopening, Despite Not Meeting White House Criteria
The steady reopening of Mississippi will continue today, at odds with White House gating criteria and the concerns of many health experts in Mississippi and abroad.
Mayor Lumumba Revises, Extends Jackson Stay-at-Home Order
Last week, Mayor Chokwe A. Lumumba signed an executive order to extend the City of Jackson’s COVID-19 stay-at-home order to May 15.
Mississippi Colleges Holding Virtual Commencement for Grads
Commencement ceremonies in Mississippi are looking a bit different than usual as graduates began to receive their degrees via virtual celebrations.
Belhaven First Responder Scholarship, JSU Mt. Olive Grant and USM COVID-19 Testing
Belhaven University recently announced a new First Responder Scholarship to help reduce tuition for first responders during the COVID-19 crisis, along with a no-cost opportunity for people to contribute to the new program.
Saturday, May 2
May 2: Mississippi Averaging Nearly 250 New COVID-19 Cases Per Day
One week after Governor Tate Reeves signed his "safer at home" order that reopened a number of retail businesses and loosened restrictions on non-essential businesses, Mississippi has a reported 7,441 cases of COVID-19 total since March 11.
Friday, May 1
Bipartisan Legislative Supermajority Takes Control of CARES Act Money
Lt. Gov. Delbert Hosemann and House Speaker Philip Gunn led a legislative supermajority to claim $1.25 billion in federal CARES Act funds today, dealing a humbling blow to the authority of Gov. Tate Reeves months into his first term.
OPINION: COVID-19 Recovery Plan Needs Bipartisan Oversight, Lessons from Katrina
Mississippi is at a crossroads on our recovery from the coronavirus pandemic. Our Legislature must be involved to ensure more balanced priorities and better financial accountability in the use of Mississippi’s CARES Act funds.
Mayor Lumumba Extends Stay at Home Order Until May 15
On Thursday, Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba signed an Executive Order to further extend the current Stay at Home order from May 1 until May 15.
Women’s Foundation of Mississippi Awards COVID-19 Rapid Response Grants
The Women’s Foundation of Mississippi announced rapid response grant awards totaling $55,000 for eleven Mississippi-based nonprofit agencies and programs directly vulnerable women and families in wake of the COVID-19 crisis.
Hosemann, Gunn Lead Bipartisan Fight With Governor to Control CARES Funds
Republican Lt. Gov. Delbert Hosemann and House Speaker Philip Gunn and a raft of legislators from both parties returned to the Capitol today to reassert legislative control over the purse strings of Mississippi, in direct conflict with Gov. Tate Reeves, also a Republican.
OPINION: Mayor Lumumba Attempts to Disarm ‘Our People’ in Jackson, Literally and Figuratively
"During his tenure as mayor, Lumumba has presided over police killing and maiming of black toilers and has strengthened police’s capacity to brutalize and subjugate."
Black Women Over-represented as COVID-19 Cases Jump to 397 Today
In spite of hopes for a plateau preceding a decline of new COVID-19 cases, the Mississippi Department of Health reported a record 397 new cases of coronavirus disease today, a sharp spike from previous weeks, during which the average daily increase hovered around 200.
Azia’s Virtual Picks 5/1/20
As we all desperately wait to reach the light at the end of this long, uncertain tunnel, check out a few more virtual happenings to indulge in. I hope something on this list inspires you to move, create and engage with others to share your new interests with.
Legal Aid Attorneys are Available by Phone
The Access to Justice Commission and two Legal Services agencies announced this week that free legal aid providers are available to assist low income people with civil legal needs like family law, housing and consumer issues.
Biden on Sexual Assault Allegation: 'Never, Never Happened'
Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden on Friday categorically denied allegations from a former Senate staffer that he sexually assaulted her in the early 1990s, saying “this never happened.”