[Artists To Watch] Dathan Thigpen & Brittney Dear: Our Sunday Best
In the spirit of making a joyful noise unto the Lord, Mississippi natives Brittney Dear, 22, and Dathan Thigpen, 30, took the stage by storm this season on BET's "Sunday Best." Both singers grew up singing gospel music and proudly come from strong musical roots.
Review: ‘Sophomore Slump: Independents Day'
A lot has changed since Skipp Coon and Mr. Nick released their debut opus, "Women Revolution Tennis Shoes," in 2008. So naturally, Skipp is going to dedicate his new album to rapping about jovial frivolity over jumpy, synthed-out pop beats courtesy of Mr. Nick, right? Maybe not.
[Artists To Watch] Wild Emotions: Like Musical Rain
During a typical night's summer rehearsal for the Wild Emotions, their practice space—Daphne Nabors' house—is filled with heat, humidity and plenty of energy.
[Herman's Picks] Vol. 8, No. 41
Fans of jam bands will want to support the return of Colonel Bruce Hampton & the Quark Alliance to Martin's Friday night.
The Turntables: A DJ's Center
He walks around, shaking hands and hugging people like the most charismatic politician. Slightly baggy jeans, simple loafer-like shoes and a mint green short-sleeved shirt are not the typical attire of someone running for office, but a suit and tie in this environment would stand out like a bonafide Jezebel at a summer tent revival.
A Man's Summer in the City
Having spent my day on Interstate 220 in a black car with no air-conditioning, I was having trouble finding anything to appreciate about summers in Jackson. But I knew a silver lining had to be out there, so I gave my pal Brent a call to hear his thoughts on the subject.
Comic Geek Chic(ks)
One look at Cami Roebuck's purple hair, inspired by the character Hit-Girl from the comic book and film "Kick-Ass," and it's clear that bucking trends is nothing new for the Brandon-based teen.
Marriage, Murder and Peanuts
Viewing an M.C. Escher painting inspires fascination and frustration. My feelings waver between total awe that he is able to fit all these figures into one uninterrupted whole and the feeling that—as remarkable as the picture may be—it's just too perfect, too forced, to work.
JPS Facing $9M Budget Hole
The Jackson Public Schools Board of Trustees met yesterday to address a possible $9 million budget shortfall for the upcoming school year. With lower tax collections, rising debt-service obligations and reduced state funding, the district may need to request a property tax increase from the city to fill gaps in the 2010-2011 budget.
MDE Submits Proposal to Makeover State Schools
On June 1, the Mississippi Department of Education sent a 500-page Race To The Top proposal to radically transform the state's educational system to Washington, D.C. Mississippi's entry in the federal grant program proposes performance pay for teachers, a state board exam system and new specialized academies, but the ambitious plan depends on getting nearly $175 million from the federal government.
Melvin Priester Jr.
You might see Melvin Priester Jr. around Jackson in his family's law office or working on his father's campaign to become a Hinds County Court judge for Sub-District 1. You also might see him riding his bike (his only mode of transportation), working the door for a local concert, deejaying a party or promoting Cross-Pollinate, a local lecture series he formed to bring artists from various parts of the country to Jackson.
Moratorium-Blocking Judge Owns Drilling Stock
Yesterday, U.S. District Judge Martin Feldman lifted the Obama administration's six-month moratorium on new deep-water drilling in the Gulf of Mexico. The judge, however, owns stock in numerous oil and drilling interests, and may well have a conflict of interest, reports Politics Daily.
Mii Fit?
Last time I blogged on here, I mentioned my vacation-oriented Food Court diet disgust and the intense need to buy a Wii Fit. After that went up I went poking online and found a pretty good deal on the Wii Fit setup and ordered it immediately.
Wellness Project: Week 3
Last week, I said that I wanted a fancy, colorful book to write my prayers in, but then I realized that I could decorate my own book. I have paint and a 100-piece marker set, so why can't I? I already have a journal that I have hardly used, and the fabric cover should be able to receive paint or ink well. I'll draw some curlicues, some flowers and maybe throw in some abstract elements. Since I know what I want, it should be easier for me to customize a book than to go out and buy one. I would save a few bucks, too.
Shortfalls Overshadow City Savings
Read the city's budget proposal
[Balko] 'I Find that Inexcusable'
At a stoplight just a few miles from his home, Nicholas Beltrante, 82, puts on his flashers, opens the driver's side door to his car, gets out, and approaches my car. I roll down my window.
Community Input Sought For ‘Cola Plant' Redesign
Community members will gather Wednesday night to discuss whether the old Coca-Cola plant could be a new sign of hope for Highway 80.
Jennifer Lake Adelsheimer
When Jennifer Lake Adelsheimer switched her career path, she had no idea that decision would take her aboard cruise ships, to Disney World and ultimately land her a job as Broad Street Baking Company's pastry chef.
Republican Primary Runoff Vote Today
Voters in Mississippi's second congressional district go back to the polls this morning to choose the Republican candidate who will challenge Democratic incumbent Rep. Bennie Thompson for his seat in the U.S. House of Representatives in November. On the ballot are Bill Marcy, 64, of Meridian, and Richard Cook, 51, of Byram. Marcy took the majority of primary votes June 1, however the difference was a single vote, reports The Sun Herald.
IHL Report Predicts Moderate Recovery
The Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning released a report today indicating that another downturn in the national economic recession is unlikely, and that Mississippi's recovery is showing a slight improvement.