Amber Helsel

Managing Editor Amber Helsel is a Gemini, feminist, writer, artist and otaku. She loves travelling, petting cats, hoarding craft supplies and more. Email story ideas to [email protected]. She attended Hinds Community College and the University of Mississippi.

Recent Stories

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New Year’s Catering & Event Guide

Greater Jackson offers a variety of places to celebrate the New Year.

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Sal the Cat

The Eudora Welty House and Garden has a scavenger hunt for kids (and the young at heart) who visit the museum. While some of the items on the list are easy to find, one in particular may give visitors some trouble, depending on how this item is feeling: the resident cat, Sal.

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Donna Beard

"I was suffering in silence and then trying to find out who do I talk to, or who could I trust with what I've gone through. ... I was so broken, so hurt, so ashamed, and nobody was able to hear my cry. Nobody was able to be there."

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Abstract Art with CDs

Wall art can be a great way to make your house feel more at home, but it can get expensive. Luckily, it's really easy to make your own with a few household item—in this case, CDs.

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New Stage Season 54 Preview

For New Stage Theatre's 54th season, the company is putting a focus on plays with a literary bent. New Stage started off with "Into the Breeches," a production that follows a group of women in 1942 as they produce "Henry V" with an all-female cast.

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New Mural Honors Frances Fortner

Recently, A Plus Signs and Creative owner Scott Allen painted a mural on the side of Fondren Corner above Fondren Nails in Frances Fortner's honor. "I hope it brings the family some joy when they see it," Allen says. "It's a way for the community to be able to remember her also in a positive light."

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EDITOR'S NOTE: Jackson Lessons Learned As I Say Goodbye

"As of this 
publication, I must say my goodbye as I leave to start a new job at Teen Health 
Mississippi. Thank you, Jackson. And thanks to all of my co-workers and team members, too. My experience here wouldn't have been as great here at the JFP if it weren't for y'all."

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Daisy Carter

During college, Daisy Carter wanted to become an English teacher so she could teach the subject she loves and give back to Jackson Public Schools.

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Local Chicken Sandwiches Win

In the last few weeks, fried chicken sandwiches, and especially spicy ones, have gone viral on social media. We here at the Jackson Free Press like to spend and eat local, so here are some delicious, non-cookie-cutter fried chicken sandwiches you should sample.

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Emelie Hebert

Artist and massage therapist Emelie Hebert has a lot of land—almost 3 acres to be exact—where she creates her artwork, glass beads and ceramics, and also hosts workshops, demonstrations and other events.

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