Jackson Free Press

House Votes to Expand Unemployment Benefits

More Mississippians could qualify for unemployment insurance under a bill the Mississippi House of Representatives passed Saturday. The Senate adjourned hours before the vote, meaning the Legislature will not bring …

The 2009 JFP Interview With John Horhn

John Horhn, 53, recently reclaimed his District 26 Senate for a fifth term, but now he wants to be mayor of Jackson. A self-proclaimed "lifelong resident of Jackson," and a …

Red And Ready To Rumble: The JFP Interview With Charlie Ross

Photos by Roy Adkins

Sen. Charlie Ross, R-Brandon, is confident this year. The 50-year-old senator is running for lieutenant governor against State Auditor Phil Bryant in the primaries, and possibly against Democratic Rep. Jamie …

Fighting Crime: What's The Plan?

Also: Darren Schwindaman's editorial cartoon

Big City, Bright Future: Development Surges Ahead in Downtown Jackson

Graphic illustration courtesy of Downtown Jackson Partners

These may be strange days for a Capitol City, but Jackson's rebirth continues to pick up speed, despite the antics of its indicted mayor.

Haley's Choice: Native Son Barbour Comes Home to Run for Governor

The big sign draped between two trees next to the Neshoba County Fair pavilion in August 1982 caused a lot of drama: "Happy Birthday, Senator Stennis."

Crisler Garners Big-Name Support for Mayoral Race

A number of notable Jacksonians are throwing their support behind Councilman Marshand Crisler in the upcoming mayoral election. Jackson restaurateur Jeff Good—the finance director of the current mayor's campaign—is hosting …

Frankie's Got A Gun

From the day Frank Melton took office as mayor of Jackson on July 4, 2006, he has exercised his right to bear arms in dramatic and public ways. Almost immediately …

BREAKING: Mayor Wants Larkin Withdrawn

Mayor Frank Melton submitted a memorandum to council members (PDF, 118 KB) requesting that they withdraw Jackson Public School Board Vice President Jonathan Larkin's name for re-appointment to the board. …

Guys We Love

<b>Magnus Eklund</b>

Licensed massage therapist Magnus Eklund's professional and charity-based efforts show a penchant for easing tension. A native of Sweden, Eklund grew up an avid tennis player and skier. His initial …

Haley Barbour Recalls Reagan in Neshoba County Fair Speech

Neshoba County Fair/July 30, 2009/Verbatim

Thank you. It's great to be back at the Fair; there's no place like it. A little mud on your boots never should bother anybody over here. This is my …

[Featured Blog] Obesity, Cars and Suburbia

Good column today from Ellen Goodman, especially for those of us interested in urban planning, the creative class, and all that stuff (Philip and Todd, I'm looking at you). It …

2005: Community

Best Elected Official and Most Under-Appreciated Jacksonian: Mayor Harvey Johnson Jr.

The JFP Interview with ‘Mark Twain'

Typical Twain, and a response Hal Holbrook wouldn't hesitate to use if someone questioned his costume. Holbrook performs in an iconic white suit, his cigar used to great effect to …

JFP 2011 College Football Preview

Before Sept. 1, every college football fan anticipates the new season with hope and optimism. No matter what any publication says, these diehard fans believe their team will beat the …

2009: Community

/09winners/best-change-Fondren.jpg" style="margin-right: 5px; margin-top: 5px;" />BEST CHANGE TO THE CITY

Mardi Gras Closed

The Clarion-Ledger is reporting confirmation of something that has been pretty clear for the last month or so -- Mardi Gras, the downtown restaurant and club, is closing its doors. …

Crime & Punishment

When a best-selling author comes to Jackson, it's news. When three best-selling authors come in one exclusive event, it's historic.

Negative Perceptions an Obstacle for Jackson

Communicating positive messages about Jackson's progress and ending negative perceptions about crime is important to attract new residents to the city of Jackson, Jackson State University professor B. D'Andra Orey …

Community Events and Public Meetings

American Board Teaching Information Sessions will be held Jan. 23, 4:30 p.m. and 6 p.m., at Ridgeland Public Library and Jan. 29, 4:30 p.m. and 6 p.m., at YMCA Downtown …