v10n33 - AMAZING TEENS! MAKING A DIFFERENCE NOW by Jackson Free Press Magazine

April 25 - May 1, 2012

Licensed by the Mississippi Commission on Proprietary School and College Registration, License No. C-624

For gainful employment statistics, please visit: www.deltatechnicalcollege.com/GE

April 25 - May 1, 2012 vol . 1 0 no. 33

amazing jacksonian

contents VIRGINIA SCHREIBER

COURTESY JORDAN HUNTER

6 ‘Revolving Door’ A complaint about special education is at the root of JPS’ looming accreditation hearing. COURTESY MADCAP PUPPETS

Cover photograph by Virginia Schreiber

THIS ISSUE:

What happens when you combine Prokofiev, Tchaikovsky and Madcap Puppets? Come hear and see! COURTESY JANIS IAN

jordan hunter Hunter, a Jackson native, plays the trumpet in the Lanier band and is a member of the tennis team. He said he hopes to continue those extracurricular activities at Morehouse, where he wants to major in business and marketing. He will try out for a talent grant with the Morehouse band in the fall. After college, Hunter hopes to get a job in the marketing division of a major company to prepare him for his ultimate goal of starting his own business, although he doesn’t know yet what he wants that business to be. With just a few weeks left in his high school career, Hunter says his favorite memories from Lanier are performances in parades and the annual Battle of the Bands with the school band, and running for school government. He was also the second runnerup for Mr. Lanier and participated in the Black History Month program the school did in February, which featured skits and dance routines. “It was a lot of fun working with the people trying to get the stuff together and put on a performance for our parents,” Hunter says. Hunter lives with his mother, Marie Stuckey, and his two younger sisters, ages 10 and 13. He tried to teach his sisters his love of the trumpet, but they quickly gave up. “They’re bigger on singing and dancing,” Hunter says. “We all have some music in our family.” —Jacob Fuller

30 Still Strong Grammy winner Janis Ian, writer of “At 17” in the 1970s, is coming to serenade Jackson for the first time.

40 Pho Sure From Vietnam to your table, pho, a traditional noodle dish, is sure to surprise and please your palate.

jacksonfreepress.com

Nathan Hunter III always wanted his son to be a Morehouse man. This fall, he will see that dream come true when his oldest child, Jordan Hunter, attends the nation’s only all-male historically black college. A senior at Lanier High School and a member of the National Honor Society, Hunter received an academic scholarship to attend Morehouse College in Atlanta next year. There, he will walk the same halls that helped educate great African Americans like Martin Luther King Jr., Spike Lee, Samuel L. Jackson and Maynard Jackson, Atlanta’s first black mayor. Chloe Garth-Elkins, an English teacher at Lanier and the 2011 JPS Teacher of the Year, also helped point Hunter toward Morehouse. She attended Spelman College, a women’s college that is part of the Atlanta University Center along with Morehouse. “She always had a lot of great things to tell me about her experiences at Spelman and meeting a Morehouse man,” Hunter says. “Being around other, I guess, intellectual African American people (can) influence you in a positive way.” He says Garth-Elikins told him he would graduate with some of the smartest people he’s ever met—maybe the next movie stars or Fortune 500 CEOs—and study with professors who are renowned authors and publishers.

CASEY PURVIS

4 ..............Editor’s Note 4 ................... Slowpoke 6 ............................ Talk 11 .................. Business 12 ................... Editorial 12 .................. Kamikaze 13 ................. Opinion 14 ............ Cover Story 26 .............. Diversions 28 .................... 8 Days 29 ........................ Film 30 ...................... Music 33 ............. JFP Events 36 ..................... Sports 38 ................ Astrology 39 ........... Life & Style 40 ....................... Food 45 .............. Body/Soul 46 ... Girl About Town

Puppet Mania

Kristin Brenemen Art Director Kristin Brenemen is an otaku with a penchant for dystopianism. Her Victini and Rarity costumes for the summer con season are coming along nicely. She designed the cover and many pages in this issue.

Sadaaf Mamoon Former JFP editorial intern Sadaaf Mamoon is a senior at St. Andrew’s Episcopal School. She loves film scores, Greek mythology and naming inanimate objects. Her spirit animal is a Pink Fairy Armadillo. She wrote an Amazing Teen profile.

Jessica Simien Jessica Simien is originally from Jackson and is currently pursuing her master’s degree at the University of Southern Mississippi. She loves writing and is the owner of J. Simien PR (jsimienpr.com). She wrote Amazing Teen profiles.

R.L. Nave Reporter R.L. Nave grew up in St. Louis, graduated from Mizzou (the University of Missouri), and lived a bunch of other places before coming to Jackson. Contact him at 601-362-6121 ext. 12. He wrote Talks.

Lynette Hanson In 2006 Lynette Hanson followed her two sons to Portland, Ore., where she enjoys mass transit, the Portland Trail Blazers, taking photos, blogging and doing her part to Keep Portland Weird. She wrote Amazing Teen profiles.

Valerie Wells Valerie Wells is assistant editor of BOOM Jackson. She’s interested in covering the media in Mississippi and figuring out who controls the news. Email ideas to Valerie@jacksonfreepress. com. She wrote an Amazing Teen profile and an arts feature.

Anita Modak-Truran Anita Modak-Truran is a southern convert, having moved here from Chicago more than a decade ago with her husband and son. She loves the culture, cuisine and arts in these parts. She wrote the film feature.

April 25 - May 1, 2012

Kimberly Griffin

Advertising Director Kimberly Griffin is a Jackson native who likes yoga, supporting locally owned businesses and traveling. In her spare time, she plots how she can become Michelle Obama’s water holder.

editor’snote

by Donna Ladd, Editor-in-Chief

Young, Impressive, Ours “For these are all our children, we will all profit by or pay for what they become.” — James Baldwin

hen freelance writer Greg Pigott turned in his write-up of Mark Scott of Callaway High School for this “Amazing Teens” issue, he wrote: “I wish I had more words to use—this kid was really amazing!” This is only the second year we’ve done the “Amazing Teens” round-up, but it’s already become one of my favorite special issues of the year. There is nothing like calling attention to the positives in the Jackson area, even as we do what we can to reveal and help repair the city’s problems. And if there is anything that is too often overlooked here in Jackson and around the country, it’s just how many amazing young people there are in our communities, and who are getting even more impressive as the socialjustice ethos becomes one of the defining factors of today’s younger Americans. These kids want to make a difference. They live in a larger world than just people who look and live like their families. They overcome challenges and use their own progress to help other people, including younger kids such as those that Miss Clinton, Jamie Ferguson, inspires her peers to help mentor and teach to deal with bullying as she did. But great teens aren’t the only thing this special issue exposes. I love putting out the call for nominations and watching supportive adults spring into action. Yes, there are those, such as Madison Burgess, whose parents are their biggest and most convincing cheerleaders. Her mother, Olivia Renfroe, wrote me: “‘Influential’ and ‘impressive’ are only two of the many words to describe my daughter, Madison Burgess, a senior at Madison Central High School. I would also describe Madison as inspiring, encouraging, courageous and beautiful—and not just because I am her mother!” Then there are those nominated by other adults, such as one who asked to remain unnamed who suggested Alonte Davis-Anderson of Wingfield. Alonte’s supporter had observed him in his community work and wrote: “He is a part of the Dropout Prevention Council through the United Way and has spoken on numerous panels and events related to the dropout crisis. He recently got back from a trip to D.C. through this council, meeting youth from all over the nation to discuss what communities can do to prevent the crisis.” Or how about Abbie Szabo’s admissions counselor at Ole Miss, where she hasn’t even started, yet. Jason Welch wrote me: “Abbie is a bright girl who is mature beyond her years. She is a natural born leader with a heart of service. I know Abbie will continue to do great things for our community and has a strong interest in serving in a global capacity.” Those are just a few of the examples of adults who take seriously their own role in building the community’s future, the ones who know that our society does way too little

to support our young people and then way too often blames them for their neglect. A few years back, then-first lady Hillary Clinton popularized the Nigerian proverb, “It takes a whole village to raise a child.” Some people made fun of the phrase, but many took it to heart. In Jackson, we have remarkable adults—some with their own children; some without—working to help young people be the best they can be, despite challenges. Many work with nonprofits, many are educators, many just take the time to mentor a young person to let them know what a successful adult looks and acts like. They believe in the adage that we should “each one teach one.” Of course, there are others who dismiss our youth out of hand, or at least the ones who grow up in more challenged parts of the metro, or who wear baggy pants, or who have made mistakes. Too many people fear our youth instead of believe in them—which creates a self-perpetuating cycle for young people who aren’t taught to believe in themselves. And let’s just be frank: Not all young people have good parents. Many of them had children too young, whether they were married or not, and have little idea of what successful parenting looks like (simply giving birth is not some magic parenting bullet, as we all know). Many children are growing up in unstable homes, whether due to poverty or the drug war or any of a number of challenges. The fact that their families aren’t doing what is needed, or do not know how, cannot deter the community from stepping up and out for young people; from taking time to talk, ask and then listen to them (rather than preach to them); and from challenging those who make disparaging comments about our young people. It is only a sick excuse when people

blame “the family” for the problems that collective actions (and inactions) have done to some kids and their hopes and dreams. It is time for our community to unite behind our young people: all of them. If we want them to prosper, we must believe in them, set good examples and high standards, and help them develop the tools and skills to be successful. We need to model mindfulness, kindness, compassion and a strong work ethic. And we must declare an end to the war on our weakest children. In this issue, you’ll read that Jackson Public Schools may lose its accreditation for its apparently abysmal treatment of children with special needs in recent years. There is no way to justify handcuffing 8th-graders (or any human being) to a railing and leaving them there for hours, not letting them even go to the bathroom. This is abuse. We the community must demand that JPS, and all public and private schools, abandon antiquated discipline and zero-tolerance practices that hurt children and, in many cases, turn them into angry criminals. Likewise, we must insist that mindless “tough-on-crime” politicians pay attention to the need for policies that reverse recidivism and stop the criminal cycle, rather than placing young people into harsh conditions that make them act out even more, ultimately putting us all at risk. The research is undisputed, and it’s common sense if we stop and think about it. If we want young people to do well and prosper, we must believe in them and treat them well. As James Baldwin famously said, we will profit or pay for what children become. We must choose wisely. Know a great teen we should write about? Write elizabeth@jacksonfreepress.com.

Thursday, April 26 The Art Garden at the Mississippi Museum of Art

Come early and stay late. Benefitting the Children and Families of Operation Shoestring

7:30 until performance by The Vamps

5:30 until 7:30pm performance by Eric stracener & The Frustrations Southern Beverage Company

Thanks to our sponsors for making these events possible.

速

SOUTHERN FARM BUREAU LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY

Puckett Machinery Madison Charitable Foundation Madison Charitable Foundation Madison Charitable Foundation Wise Carter Wise Wise Carter

For BoTh EVEnTs:

Steen, Dalehite & Pace, LLP

Free Admission, Cash Bar

Carter

jacksonfreepress.com

Madison Charitable F

news, culture & irreverence

Thursday, April 19 Gov. Phil Bryant signs a bill to consolidate three school districts in Sunflower County. … Starbucks announces it will stop coloring its food products with cochineal extract, a common dye made from bugs, and will use a tomato-based dye. Friday, April 20 Freedom Riders visit Northwest Rankin High School to share their memories of the Civil Rights Movement. … Gov. Bryant declares a state of emergency in the Aberdeen Public School District, clearing the way for the state to place a conservator in the district. The state Board of Education says it has “serious concerns regarding the safety of students.” Saturday, April 21 People take part in a “wing-eating” contest and other activities at Zoo Brew, a benefit for the Jackson Zoo. … Chuck Colson, special counsel to President Nixon during the Watergate scandal and later an evangelical leader, dies at the age of 80. Sunday, April 22 France holds the first round of elections for its next president. The frontrunners are Socialist Francois Hollande and conservative incumbent Nicolas Sarkozy, who are headed for a runoff election in two weeks. … A storm dumps rain on the U.S. East Coast, causing officials to postpone several baseball games.

April 25 - May 1, 2012

Monday, April 23 The American Shrimp Processors Association argues its members have been unfairly excluded from part of a settlement with BP over the 2010 Deepwater Horizon spill in the Gulf of Mexico. … The police chief in Sanford, Fla., where Trayvon Martin was shot, announces he will resign.

Tuesday, April 24 Home prices declined in early 2012, economists say, due partly to sales of foreclosed homes. … South Sudanese officials say Sudanese bombs have killed at least three people, and that Sudan’s actions amount to a declaration of war.

Get news updates at jfpdaily.com.

As of 2010, 25.5 percent of Mississippi’s population was under the age of 18. The national average is 24 percent. In Jackson, 27.4 percent of the population is less than 18 years old. Source: U.S. Census Bureau

Under Fire for Special-Ed Violations

by Elizabeth Waibel

he Jackson Public Schools district may lose its accreditation due to how it has disciplined students with disabilities, tracking them into lower-quality education at alternative schools rather than helping them stay in their schools and improve. The Mississippi Department of Education complied with a Jackson Free Press public-records request last week that revealed that JPS’ recent accreditation problems, which may be resolved in an April 26 hearing, stem from a complaint that the Mississippi Youth Justice Project filed against the district in September 2010. The MYJP, a project of the Southern Poverty Law Center, alleged that schools suspended students with emotional disabilities and behavioral issues or sent them to the alternative school, rather than working to help them stay in school. At a teleconference of the state Commission on School Accreditation March 12, MDE officials presented a timeline of JPS’ noncompliance of accreditation standards that begins with the MYJP complaint. The complaint alleged that JPS shuffled students with behavioral problems from their home schools to the Capital City Alternative School, where they made little to no academic or behavioral progress. When they returned to regular school settings, the complaint said, they were even farther behind academically, and their behavioral challenges had not been addressed.

Virginia Schreiber

Wednesday, April 18 Police find stolen Nissan parts worth about $500,000 at a body shop in Jackson. … Dick Clark, former host of “American Bandstand” and “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve,” dies at the age of 82.

Shelley Abrams says local harassment will make it hard for doctors at the abortion clinic to comply with new regulations. p 10

A 2010 complaint at the root of JPS’ accreditation problems alleges that the district shuffled students with emotional problems through a “revolving door” between the Capital City Alternative School and their home schools.

“Both of these factors create a revolving door through which students cycle between CCAS and their regular schools without receiving any real benefit at either placement,” the complaint said. The MYJP, filing on behalf of nine JPS students, sought to reform how the school system administers special education services and discipline. “The significant loss of instruction time (through suspensions) has caused Petitioners to fall farther and farther behind academically, and this factor has contributed significantly to their placement in more restrictive educational environments,” the complaint said.

Most of the nine students, in grades 8-12 at six different schools, had emotional disabilities, although two had learning or intellectual disabilities. In a November 2010 report of its investigation into the complaint, MDE’s Office of Special Education found that JPS had “failed to address the ongoing pattern of behavioral and/or emotional concerns of the student cases reviewed.” The state ordered the district to submit a plan for improvement and warned that, under the Individuals with Disabilities EducaJPS, see page 7

How to Be Amazing “It’s always small minorities, like you guys, who take the lead.” —Freedom Rider Bob Zellner, speaking to students at Northwest Rankin High School.

“As a small business owner, I relate the success of students to the success of (businesses).” —Former JPS board member Jonathan Larkin, asking the current board to extend its search for the district’s next superintendent.

“This is a historic day, and I am so happy to see this item before us. I thank every one of you who had anything to do with it, including my colleagues who’ve helped push hard.” —Ward 7 Councilwoman Margaret Barrett-Simon on the Fortification Street project.

Want to be as amazing as our featured teens? Try some of their ideas for serving the community: • Learn another language. • Donate toys to the children’s hospital. • Sing in a choir. • Play a sport. • Overcome obstacles. • Learn a poem. • Ask students how you can help them stay in school. • Listen to someone from across the political aisle. • Tell someone they are loved. • Travel, or study about another country. • Tell someone about a cause you’re passionate about. • Read a book. • Plant a garden. • Challenge stereotypes. • Tell someone thank you.

news, culture & irreverence

JPS, from page 6

tion Act, if JPS did not resolve all deficiencies within a year, it would “adversely affect the accreditation status of the school district.” MDE assigns each district one of four accreditation statuses—Accredited, Advised, Probation or Withdrawn—which depend on how well the district is complying with mandatory processes and standards. JPS’ rating has slipped from Accredited in the 2008-2009 school year to its current probationary status. The IDEA, as the federal law is called, is designed to ensure that children with disabilities get services they need, which are often denied during disciplinary processes due to their tendency to act out due to their challenges. The IDEA website, idea.ed.gov, states that the law “governs how states and public agencies provide early intervention, special education and related services to more than 6.5 million eligible infants, toddlers, children and youth with disabilities.” The federal law has long been the center of controversy due to its expense to public-school districts that have to provide the needed services. In its complaint about JPS, Southern Poverty Law Center attorneys Corrie Cockrell and Sheila Bedi wrote that the IDEA regulations amount to a “hollow promise for many JPS students.” “The School Districts’ wholesale IDEA violations have forced many students with disabilities into an endless cycle of punitive and unlawful removals from the classroom environment,” the attorneys wrote. “As a result of these removals, students lag far behind their peers academically and as a result grow increasing(ly) frustrated with school and in some instances ‘dread’ attending school.” Instead of providing the required services, they alleged, JPS chose to “repeatedly punish (the students) for behaviors related to their disabilities.” And JPS’ habit of transferring students with disabilities to the Capital City Alternative Schools created “an unlawfully segregated environment in which students with disabilities are isolated and repeatedly pun-

ished for manifestations of their disability.” These habits, they warned, “cut short the life chances of countless JPS students.” The 50-page complaint detailed examples of students whose rights MYJP believed had been violated. The Jackson Free Press reported last year, and in a cover story earlier this year by Valerie Wells, that JPS has admitted that Capital City staff have handcuffed students to metal railings in the gymnasium, leaving them there for hours. Students have alleged, through MYJP, that school “enforcement” officers handcuffed middle-school children for infractions as minor as not wearing a belt. The JFP reported that a 14-year-old boy, who wore a stocking cap to class, supposedly threw his papers on the ground and refused to do his schoolwork, so officers cuffed him to the railing. At the end of the school day, they removed the cuffs, which left marks on his wrists, but school officials refused to get him medical attention. At the April 26 hearing, JPS will make its case for keeping its accreditation status. Losing accreditation would mean JPS students could not participate in after-school activities, including sports, band or choir. The MYJP complaint came during the time that Lonnie Edwards was superintendent at JPS. The board voted in December 2010 not to renew Edwards’ contract. Since last summer, former JPS superintendent Jayne Sargent has been acting as the district’s interim superintendent while the search for a new district leader is under way. A spokeswoman for Sargent has said that JPS is “glad to have this opportunity to meet with the accreditation commission,” and feels confident about its responses. Both current and past board members told the Jackson Free Press that Sargent is working to correct the problems. “We know we need to do well by special-education students; we need to give them, along with every student, the opportunity to do the best that they possibly can,” JPS board member George Schimmel said earlier this month. Comment at jfp.ms.

Biz Roundup: Going Green by Elizabeth Waibel

Data Recycling A local business recently became certified to safely recycle old electronics. Magnolia Data Solutions announced earlier this month

that it is the state’s only R2 certified electronic recycler. Elizabeth Waibel

ondren will see the benefits of a $2-million grant to make the area friendlier for bicyclists and pedestrians, as well as for landscape reforms. “ I t ’s federal money that the federal government puts aside for non-automobile-related transportation improvement, so it focuses on pedestrians, bicycles, sidewalks—those kinds of things,” said Jonathan Kiser, vice president at Neel-Schaffer, the engineering and planning firm that will design the improvements. Eligible projects for the grant include better pedestrian access and landscaping. Sidewalks, parking and new roads are not eligible.

People brainstorm ideas for spending grant money.

The R2 certification, which stands for “Responsible Recycling,” means the company adheres to environmental and legal standards for recycling computers and electronics. Magnolia Data Solutions recycles

old electronics so they do not clog up landfills and to keep toxic chemicals from contaminating the soil and water. The company also wipes and shreds data from old computers so it does not become a security liability. Recycle Day The city of Jackson will hold a Recycle Day this Saturday, when residents can drop off hazardous household waste. The city will safely dispose of a variety of hazardous materials, including batteries, antifreeze, pesticides, oils, propane tanks, paint and other chemicals. People can also drop off electronics and used tires at the event. Jackson’s Recycle Day will take place from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, April 28, at Battlefield Park (Highway 80 and Terry Road).

WEDNESDAY 4/25

Jason Turner (Rock)

THURSDAY 426

Legacy

(Traditional Irish) FRIDAY 4/27

We brought the great outdoors indoors! Scan QR for more information

Jackson Only Indoor Bouldering Facility! 125 Dyess Road|Ridgeland, MS 39157|601-977-9000

Cooper Miles

(Acoustic Alternative) SATURDAY 4/28

Thomas Jackson Orchestra (Rock)

MONDAY 4/30

Karaoke w/ Matt TUESDAY 5/1

Want to intern at the JFP?

Open Mic

with Jason Bailey

Includes Drink & Choices of Fresh Vegetables Have fun, hone your skills, gain valuable experience and college credit* by interning with the Jackson Free Press. You set your hours, and attend free training workshops. We currently have openings in the following areas: • Editorial/News • Photography • Cultural/Music Writing • Fashion/Style

• Arts/Writing Editing

• Internet • Graphic Design • Communications: Marketing/Events/PR

Interested? Send an e-mail to ronni@jacksonfreepress.com, telling us why you want to intern with us and what makes you the ideal candidate. *College credit available to currently enrolled college students in select disciplines.

All for only

$7.98

Monday: Hamburger Steak Tuesday: Grilled Tilapia or Fried Chicken Wednesday: Roast Beef Thursday : Chicken Diane or Grilled Pork Chop Friday : Meatloaf or

Chicken & Dumplings

jacksonfreepress.com

talk

Legislature: Week 17

by R.L. Nave

At Capitol, Jackson a Winner and Loser

April 25 - May 1, 2012

Two Big Fights “Redistricting might overshadow the budget process—and that’s fine with me,” joked House Appropriations Committee Chairman Rep. Herb Frierson, R-Poplarville, this week at a John C. Stennis Institute press luncheon. Lawmakers have until the end of the legislative session to complete both the budget and the once-per-decade task of redrawing the state’s political boundaries. Now that the state will have a little extra spending money—about $128 million—some of the blood-and-guts predictions about severe cuts to needed state services have subsided. Frierson conceded that the fiscal year 2013 budget, which both the House and Senate anticipate to be around $5.6 billion, would grow by about $67 million over the current fiscal year’s budget. Most of the additional money will go toward offsetting so-called onetime funds such as legal settlements awarded to the state, Frierson said. Meeting the growth in the state’s Medicaid plan will be especially challenging because 100,000 more people will automatically join the state’s Medicaid rolls in 2014 under provisions of the 2010 Affordable Care Act. Meanwhile, the drawing phase of the redistricting process is now finished, and it’s expected that the public could see the new maps in the coming days. Rep. Bill Denny, RJackson, the House chairman of the Joint Legislative Committee on Reapportionment, said Monday he couldn’t talk about the new maps, yet, because experts are vetting the plan.

Mississippi has 122 House and 52 Senate districts. The overall number of districts will likely remain the same, but some districts might be absorbed into areas where the 2010 Census shows significant population growth, such as DeSoto County. “I’m anxious to see how creative they will be,” said Rickey Cole, executive director of the Mississippi Democratic Party. “If Republicans attempt to get too creative or overzealous, they could very well run afoul of the Voting Rights Act and current case law.” Whichever plan the Legislature approves must meet U.S. Department of Justice approval because of Mississippi’s history of black voter disenfranchisement. In Texas, a redistricting dispute has delayed the state’s 2012 primary for months. African American and Latino voters accused the Republican-controlled Texas Legislature of presenting a reapportionment plan that diluted minority voters, who traditionally support Democrats. The Justice Department also rejected laws in South Carolina and Texas that require voters to present photo ID at the polls, arguing that the laws would have disproportionate negative effect on minorities. Mississippi, which approved a voter ID ballot initiative last fall, must pass enacting legislation before the constitutional amendment can take effect. Good News for Jackson Work on a bill that could add millions to the city of Jackson’s coffers will hopefully wrap up this week, said the legislation’s sponsor, Rep. Jim Evans, D-Jackson. Last year, the Legislature agreed to let Jackson collect a 1-cent sales tax for infrastructure and public safety improvements if 60 percent of voters approved it and if the city set up a commission to oversee how the money was spent. Mayor Harvey Johnson Jr. balked at the idea of having a board of baby sitters tell the city how it could spend its money and never put the question to the voters. HB 168, which Evans introduced this year, removes the requirement for the oversight commission and gives the city complete

control over revenue generated by the tax. “There’s no need for a commission unless the city council and mayor think they need a commission,” Evans said. Ronni Mott

ou know that old expression about the calm before the storm? Such has been the mood at the state Capitol for the past couple weeks. The relatively tranquil period follows a tumultuous period of fiery debates on abortion and immigration and hallway shoving matches over charter schools and workers’ compensation. Expect the tide to turn when lawmakers hunker down to clear the calendar of thorny political issues before sine die (adjournment) the first week of May.

Rep. Jim Evans, D-Jackson, doesn’t think Jackson needs a commission to tell it how to spend tax revenue.

Over the course of the tax’s 20-year lifespan, the city could raise $15 million to $20 million. A conference committee is reviewing HB 168, which passed the House and Senate. Bad News for Jackson Thanks to Speaker Philip Gunn, R-Clinton, a deal that would have increased activity in downtown Jackson is dead in the water. Sen. David Blount, D-Jackson, who chairs the Senate Public Properties Committee, introduced a bill at the beginning of the legislative session that would move the headquarters of the state Department of Revenue from Clinton to the 345,000 square feet Landmark Center, located at 175 East Capitol St. in downtown. Blount said his SB 2795 bill died in the House last week, and there’s no way to revive it at this point. Boosters for Downtown Jack-

son accused Gunn, a Republican, of playing politics in keeping the DOR building close to his Clinton district even though it physically sits in Blount’s. Gunn did not return a phone message left Tuesday morning. Gov. Haley Barbour’s administration commissioned a study in 2011 that concluded buying the Landmark Building at a cost of $14.1 million would be cheaper than building a new facility on property the state already owns, which consultants Cushman and Wakefield estimated would cost around $44 million. Even Worse News for Charters Despite going to a conference committee this week, the latest attempt to pass legislation establishing charter schools appears to be heading for defeat. House members voted to send HB 1152, which had been modified to include language from a Senate charter school bill that didn’t make it out of the House Education Committee, to a conference committee where it will likely die on a procedural vote. Lt. Gov. Reeves, who, along with the state’s other Republican leaders, has pushed for a charter bill all session, called the House vote disappointing. In a statement, Reeves said: “I am disappointed the majority of the members of the House did not agree with the Senate’s plan to bring meaningful changes to Mississippi’s educational system. Children trapped in failing school districts deserve an opportunity for success, and any further changes would only weaken the effort to give parents a choice in their children’s education.” Gov. Phil Bryant, who also supports charter schools, indicated he might extend the legislative calendar by calling a special session to compel lawmakers to pass a charter bill. Of the possibility of a special session, Reeves’ spokeswoman Laura Hipp said in an email: “The Senate has given the House ample opportunity this year to pass meaningful public charter school legislation. Lt. Gov. Reeves believes the Legislature can return in January to pass real education reform that includes public charter schools.”

citytalk

make a difference....

by Jacob Fuller

A Second Chance

... And Good Money! The Jackson Free Press and BOOM Jackson magazine seek TOP PERFORMERS for advertising sales positions. We need client-driven candidates ready to hit the streets to prospect new accounts, listen to client needs and follow up every week with world-class customer service. Bring your love of local business and your willingness to wake up every morning to improve your customers’ bottom line. Young or old, if you have the stuff, we’ll know! Contact publisher Todd Stauffer at

todd@jacksonfreepress.com to make your pitch!

8th Annual

To Help Fund A Rape Crisis Center Items Needed: Original Art, Gift Certificates, Corporate Items Gifts, Big & Small, Monetary Donations, Chick Toys & Decor Sponsorships Available: Imperial Highness $5,000, Diva $2,500, Goddess $1,000, Queen $500, Princess $250, Chick $50

If we receive your donation by the deadline, it will be featured in our big Chick Ball Gift Guide on July 11.

Saturday, July 28, 2012 Hal & Mal’s Red Room Cover $5 | 18+ To donate or volunteer: 601-362-6121 ext 16 chickball@jacksonfreepress.com For more information: jfpchickball.com • follow us on twitter @jfpchickball

jacksonfreepress.com

Jacob Fuller

hile the Jackson Police Depart- At the regular City Council meeting ment’s tools for reducing crime in- April 17, the Council approved a contract clude more officers patrolling the with Vivian Taylor, an education professor at streets, restructuring beats and add- Jackson State University, to serve as an adviser ing new technology, the city of Jackson is in and internal evaluator of the planning stage of the planning stages of a more complex weapon Fresh Start. Her role is to make sure the goals for fighting crime. In 2008, President Barack Obama signed The Second Chance Act, which allows the federal government to award grants to government bodies and nonprofit organizations to help people returning to the community from jail or prison find employment and housing, and provide them with skills training, mentoring and substance abuse treatment. Jackson was one of 15 cities out of more than 600 applicants to receive the $55,000 grant to fund Mayor Harvey Johnson Jr. and the city of Jackson are planning the Fresh Start program to help convicts with the planning of a program to reduce re-entry into society. recidivism. The city has assembled a task force to create a plan for Jumpstart, a program that aims to help ex-convicts of the program are being met and to troublelearn skills and get jobs in an attempt to keep shoot any problems that arise. them from committing more crimes and re- Taylor is the coordinator of a juvenile turning to prison. The task force has held one recidivism program at Henley-Young Youth orientation meeting to introduce members to Justice Center called Friday Night Live. She the goals of the program. has also written for and advised grant seekers The city has until September to submit for 25 years. an official plan to the U.S. Department of “(Fresh Start) needs to address, primarJustice. Once the plan is completed, Jackson ily, pre-release and post-release after care for will apply for more grant money to imple- paroled and released offenders,” Taylor said. ment the program. “It needs to provide support services that will “Having received the planning grant, assist them with issues related to emotional it sort of gives us an upper hand, if you will, and social development, as relates to emin competing for implementation funds,” ployment, as relates to getting re-immersed Mayor Harvey Johnson Jr. said. “Whether into the community and even in their own the other 14 groups will go to the next step, I families. It needs to address continuing edudon’t know.” cation and career development, as well as The task force is made up of more than on-going consistent, systematic monitoring 50 city leaders, including Police Chief Rebecca and advisement.” Coleman, Sheriff Tyrone Lewis, Department The program also needs to sensitize emof Corrections officials, judges, business lead- ployers to hiring ex-offenders, Taylor said. ers such as Socrates Garrett of Garrett Enter- There is an understandable concern among prises and Jeff Good of Bravo and Sal and employers to invest in people who have been Mookies, and Jackson-Hinds Comprehensive incarcerated, but Taylor believes if they are Health Center CEO Dr. Jasmine Chapman, given a chance at a legitimate job, they are less as well as a few ex-convicts. Offender Reentry likely to repeat previous offenses. Program Coordinator Karen Quay would not “Currently, we are in a funded year for release the names of the ex-offenders who at- planning. My goal is to make sure we cover all tended the task-force meeting at press time. the bases, that we make sure we have the right Quay said the Department of Human people at the table,” Taylor said. “(We have) a and Cultural services, headed by Louis Arm- huge diversity of community stake holders at strong, was keeping Fresh Start from getting the table, so that we will have a wide perspec“too public” until they had a better idea of tive of how to address the issue. what the plan for the program will be. She is “In our last meeting with the officers currently working to schedule the task force’s from (the Department of Justice) last week, second meeting at Eagle Ridge Conference one of the things that they thought was critiCenter in Raymond. cal, and of course we concurred because we Armstrong himself, a former Jackson had talked about it as well, is to make sure that council president, is an ex-felon who served the community is abreast and involved.” 13 months in federal prison for accepting part Taylor invited the Jackson Free Press to of a $25,000 bribe in the late 1990s meant to join the task force at future meetings. She said help influence positive zoning for a strip club. she also plans to hold several town meetings to He returned to city government in 2007 dur- keep the community involved in the planning ing the Frank Melton administration. of the Fresh Start.

activistdish

by Valerie Wells

Under Pressure: Fighting to Keep ‘Choice’ In State

Doesn’t the women’s clinic already have OB-GYN doctors with admitting privileges? We are already required by state law to have a doctor on staff to have admitting privileges. We have a doctor on staff with admitting privileges. This doctor does not do the bulk of the procedures. It’s going to be very hard to get admitting privileges. Why? Local harassment. I’ve never seen the

amount of pressure or tactics anti-abortion groups use in Mississippi. They’ve called young doctors’ parents to put pressure on them. Courtesy Shelley Abrams

helley Abrams is fighting the state of Virginia’s attack on abortion rights. Earlier this month, she was arrested on the steps of the state capitol in Richmond, Va. She oversees several clinics that provide legal abortion services, including one in Virginia and several other southern states. Abrams is also executive director of Jackson Women’s Health Organization, the only abortion facility in the state. It may be too soon to predict that the Jackson clinic will have to close July 1, the date Mississippi’s new anti-abortion law goes into effect. Gov. Phil Bryant signed House Bill 1390 earlier this month with a goal of closing down this last clinic in Mississippi. The new law requires abortion clinic doctors be board-certified in OB-GYN and to have admitting privileges at a local hospital. All three doctors at the Jackson clinic are board-certified, and one does have admitting privileges. The new law would require all three of them to have hospital admitting privileges at a local hospital. Abrams is ready for this battle, although cautious and worried. She recently spoke to the Jackson Free Press about it. Abrams didn’t comment on any relationships the clinic now has with particular hospitals. She also didn’t want to discuss the ownership of the clinic or the other clinics she oversees. The reluctance comes from a fear for the lives of the doctors and staff who provide abortions.

Shelley Abrams, executive director of Jackson Women’s Health Organization, speaks in front of the Mississippi Capitol last fall.

They’ve called churches and have pastors put pressure on them. They are a very well-oiled machine. Some of your doctors come from out of state to perform abortions. Is it harder to get admitting privileges if they are out of state? Hospitals aren’t required to give doctors admitting privileges. Jackson is a small town. If (the anti-abortion groups) knew a hospital gave privileges, they would put pressure on them to terminate our agreement. There’s too much social pressure in Jackson. The law goes into effect July 1. Will the clinic have to close then? We are attempting to jump through hoops to provide a legal service to the women of Mississippi. If we are unable to jump through hoops—I don’t know. The state already comes into our clinic

all the time to review documents. I can’t even imagine. I have no plans of that clinic to shut down. How I’m going to do that, I don’t know. I can’t fathom no abortion access in Mississippi.

University (of Mississippi) Medical Center. Two, any patient who must be taken there is taken there. Everything he said while signing that law was a lie.

Can a private doctor perform an abortion in his or her private office in Mississippi? I’ve never heard of private doctors doing abortions in Mississippi.

I assume that St. Dominic, a Catholic hospital, wouldn’t give your doctors admitting privileges. Is there political pressure at UMMC? It is a stateowned facility. Catholic hospitals have massive pressure. I’d be shocked to find out any abortion providers nationwide have admitting privileges. You would think the university hospital would be the least politicized in theory. We hope they meet with our doctors and reach an agreement.

But some doctors will have a patient who wants an abortion, and so the doctor might suggest a D&C or some other procedure and that’s what goes in the medical records instead of an abortion. That happens, right? When a miscarriage occurs, you do have to file a statistics form with the state. A private doctor might say, “Oh, it looks like you are having some bleeding” and then perform a procedure. What’s your next step? The next step is trying to get admitting privileges. Obviously, the cost of taking a constitutional case to the Supreme Court is costprohibitive. If a national organization chose to take this, we would be there. The Supreme Court is a scary place to go. I don’t know how the governor can say in one breath this is a great law for women’s health and in the next breath say if this clinic has to shut down, “So be it.” It’s disingenuous to say this is for women’s health when it’s clear the agenda was to shut this clinic down. He has the gall to bamboozle women. Any doctor who works in our office is licensed in the state of Mississippi. They have to go before a review board. These are highly qualified physicians. Gov. Bryant is thumbing his nose at the medical board. I think that he is taking the tactic that most of these (anti-abortion) politicians take—”We are just looking out for you little women.” There are points he doesn’t understand. One, we are a quarter of a mile from

Is there something that you would really like to stress about any of this? When your own government can turn against you, you have to take action. You have to. This is not a time to be complacent. The government is trying to limit your access to abortion. Gov. Phil Bryant did not return calls to respond to Abrams’ remarks as of press time. Comment at jfp.ms. Here is what Mississippi law now says about abortion providers: “‘Abortion facility’ means a facility operating substantially for the purpose of performing abortions and is a separate identifiable legal entity from any other health care facility. Abortions shall only be performed by physicians licensed to practice in the State of Mississippi. All physicians associated with the abortion facility must have admitting privileges at a local hospital and staff privileges to replace local hospital on-staff physicians. All physicians associated with an abortion facility must be board certified or eligible in obstetrics and gynecology, and a staff member trained in CPR shall always be present at the abortion facility when it is open. The term ‘abortion facility’ includes physicians’ offices that are used substantially for the purpose of performing abortions.”

OPENING IN MAY Green Oak Florist April 25 - May 1, 2012

OUR SECOND LOCATION AT THE TOWNSHIP

GREENOAKFLORIST.COM

5009 Old Canton Road • Jackson | 1067 Highland Colony • Ridgeland

601.956.5017 | 601.707.9440

citytalk

Best Hair Stylist

by Jacob Fuller

- 2010 - 2012 Best of Jackson -

Progress, At a Snail’s Pace

eP robl em

to Par

ft h he tt Solution, No

City Council members Margaret Barrett-Simon,Tony Yarber and Charles Tillman voted to move special council meetings from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., effective immediately.

staff folks by 10 o’clock on Monday morning has been very difficult for them,” Barrett-Simon said. Cooper-Stokes, whose attendance at Monday meetings has been sparse since she joined the council in March, was the only council member absent at the 4 p.m. meeting Monday. Fortification, Finally Hemphill Construction Company of Florence won the bid for a Fortification Street facelift. The City Council voted 5-1 April 17 to approve an $8.9-million contract with Hemphill for the makeover. The contract now goes to the Mississippi Department of Transportation for approval. If MDOT approves the contract, the city expects construction to begin in late May. The project will improve 1.2 miles of Fortification Street from Greymont Avenue to Farish Street.

The plans include repaving the street and converting the stretch from Greymont Avenue to Jefferson Street from four lanes to three, with a dedicated turn lane in the center. The conversion will make room for new, ADA-compliant sidewalks along the entire 1.2-mile stretch. Barrett-Simon has pushed for the project, which is in her ward, for years. When it was announced at City Hall, Ward 6 Councilman Tony Yarber tried to take to the right to move that Barrett-Simon knew she’d earned. “So moved,” Yarber said. “No you can’t,” Barrett-Simon quickly replied, creating a roar of laughter in the council chambers. “So moved,” she said. “This is a historic day, and I am so happy to see this item before us. I thank every one of you who had anything to do with it, including my colleagues who’ve helped push hard—including Mr. Yarber who is going to cut yards for me to help meet with the funding, because he’s so distressed about the condition of the street. “This is an important project for our city, and I’m very pleased to see it before us today.” The project will also include six new traffic signals, traffic-monitoring cameras and supporting fiber-optic cables, decorative light fixtures along either side of the street, new streets signs, and relocation of all overhead utility lines to an underground vault. The renovation will also include a 24-inch water main on Jefferson Street to replace one of the oldest mains in the city. City, state and federal funds will help cover the $8.9 million project. About $2 million will come from the state Economic Development Highway Grant Program, and the city will cover between 20 percent and 25 percent of the total cost, Mayor Harvey Johnson Jr. said. Cooper-Stokes was the only dissenting vote. Ward 1 Councilman Quentin Whitwell had left the chambers before the vote to attend his daughter’s musical performance. Comment at jfp.ms.

L ACE Y ’S S

ce s s Hair & Ac

orie s

601.397.6398 | 1935 Lakeland Dr.

Look Who’s

JFP Now! In The

Jim Ewing

Joe Atkins We welcome former ClarionLedger columnists Jim Ewing and Joe Atkins to the JFP. Watch for Jim’s organic column every other issue; Joe’s political column monthly starting May 23.

Magnolia Data Solutions Environmental Services and Information Destruction Specialists

We are Mississippi’s ONLY R2 CERTIFIED electronic recycler! We Handle: • electronic recycling • information destruction • excess inventory re-marketing • waste identification needs for individuals and organizations of all sizes. For more information on how we can help your business,

please call 601-919-0062 EPA, HIPA, GLBA & FACTA Compliant

160 Fairbanks St. • Jackson, Ms 39202 • www.MagnoliaDataSolutions.com

jacksonfreepress.com

on, Not the uti P ol

m ble ro

Part of th eS

One Too Many Mornings The Council voted 5-1 at the same meeting to move special meetings from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., effective immediately. Cooper-Stokes, who has been a proponent of eliminating the special meetings in favor of weekly regular meetings, was the lone dissenting vote. Special meetings are held on Mondays that are not followed by one of the biweekly regular meeting on Tuesday. The special meetings often consist only of a vote on the claims docket and pay roll.

Council attendance has been poor at best in recent months. The move from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. will help fix the problem, Ward 7 Councilwoman Margaret Barrett-Simon said. “It not only is more convenient for the council members, it allows the staff and our policy analysts to do work on Monday that will be beneficial to us at the 4 o’clock meeting. Having gotten the agenda at 5 o’clock on Friday and having to do the analysis by Jacob Fuller

ity government is rarely accused of acting quickly. The Jackson City Council is working hard to assure that remains true. Procedure requires most council ordinances to spend at least two weeks in committee and causes a large number of them to remain on the agenda for months, if not years. The council has recently taken the slowmoving style of local government to the micro level as well. At the Tuesday, April 17, regular council meeting, members spent more than 14 minutes inquiring about and discussing the procedure for an honorary renaming of a street. The proposed action, to rename the portion of Campbell Street from Dr. Martin Luther King Drive to the dead end to Dr. Gene “Jughead” Young Drive, was sent to the Planning Committee. Ward 3 Councilwoman LaRita Cooper-Stokes requested that the proposal be brought back to the Council in two weeks for a vote. Council President Frank Bluntson and Ward 6 Councilman Tony Yarber objected, saying honorary renaming already follows a process, which requires more than two weeks to complete. After nearly a quarter of an hour discussing the process with the city attorney’s office, the council found that the proposal could not be voted on in two weeks, because a public notice must run in the local newspaper for two consecutive weeks prior to the vote, and the deadline to submit the notice is Monday.

jfp op/ed

opining, grousing & pontificating

EDITORIAL

‘Father’ Doesn’t Always Know Best

t a recent event featuring Speaker Philip Gunn and Lt. Gov. Tate Reeves, Gunn told the audience that Reeves and his wife had recently celebrated the birth of their third daughter. Gunn said he especially sympathized with what Reeves is going through in caring for a newborn because, Gunn joked, he has 122 kids to deal with, referring to Mississippi House of Representatives members. As observers of the current legislative session, which is scheduled to conclude in just a couple of weeks, we’ve seen our fair share of temper tantrums, scolding, playground tussles, bullying and legislative proposals that carry the stink of dirty diapers. Even Gunn, who thinks of himself as the House’s patriarch, and Reeves, to a lesser extent, can be bratty. Just look at how Gunn purportedly stood in the way of the Department of Revenue’s move from Clinton to downtown Jackson. After the House indicated that the charter-schools bill is likely again headed for defeat by sending it to a conference committee, Reeves, who badly wanted the charter bill, essentially took his toys and went home. After expressing disappointment in the House for again shooting down the schools proposal, Reeves said, “I look forward to passing real education reform next year.” To paraphrase Chris Rock, Gunn hasn’t always gotten his “big piece of chicken” to which fathers feel entitled, either. Sure, the attorney-general powerkilling Sunshine Act is headed for passage as did the Ryan Petit Child Protection and Child Rape Protection Act and tighter abortion restrictions, all of which Gunn championed. But Gunn and his GOP compatriots got spanked on the issue of finally getting an Arizona-style immigration law, something that seemed unstoppable when the legislative session began in January, thanks to a contingent of determined Democrats (with some backroom help from key Republicans) playing the role of redheaded stepchildren. While Gunn’s assertion of himself as a patriarch of sorts might explain the sometimes heavy-handed way he operates as speaker, he isn’t the only lawmaker with a father complex. How else do you explain why lawmakers keep trying to “protect” us? Restricting abortion access protects women’s health. The name of Mississippi’s anti-immigration law, the Safe Community Police Act, conveys the need to protect citizens from ill-intentioned dark-skinned outsiders. The various budget plans we’ve seen propose cuts in libraries, the arts, K-12 and higher education, and health care all because some legislators think they’re protecting our long-term interests. Putting legislators in charge of the state treasury doesn’t mean they’re in charge. There’s still a lot of the people’s work left to do. In these final days of the legislative year, it’s up to us, the taxpayers, to remind lawmakers who’s the boss.

KEN STIGGERS

Cool and Creamy

April 25 - May 1, 2012

ister Ice Creamy Man: “Spring is here and the days are longer. It’s time to break out my new and improved Ice Creamy Truck, courtesy of Congressman Smokey ‘Robinson’ McBride’s Ghetto Science Community Small Business Bailout money. My lovely wife, Mrs. Ice Creamy Woman, suggested I pay the deacon mechanics of Rev. Cletus Car Sales Church to repair and refurbish my Ice Creamy Truck. Also, the Deacon Mechanics went the extra mile to make the truck environmentally friendly. My wife and I are quite anxious to introduce the Ghetto Science Community to our custom-built Hybrid Electric and Petroleum Vehicle. “Seven years ago, Zipp Pitters, self-published poet, wrote a children’s book titled ‘The Ice Cream Truck Ran out of Gas.’ He dedicated this book to the children of the ghetto who deal with a struggling economy and rising fuel prices. I worried about serving my community during the spring and summer seasons. I still worry in an uncertain economy where people struggle to keep their homes, pay their bills and provide for their families. Thanks to the efforts of a concerned politician and resourceful church mechanics, I am able to do my part to bring some happiness to members of the Ghetto Science Community by serving and selling them affordable cool and creamy frozen treats. “Children and adults of the Ghetto Science Community, the new, improved, environmentally friendly, solar powered Hybrid Electric and Petroleum Mister Ice Creamy Truck is coming to your neighborhood. 12 “Just listen for the ding-a-ling bell.”

Enemies of Progress

Kamikaze

hen the check writers determine who the law writers are, the system never changes. When bureaucrats are allowed to govern with impunity, the system never changes. In or out of office, where we don’t have natural leaders, citizens—and more importantly, children—are done a disservice. Necessity is said to be the mother of invention. We’ve reached a crossroads in Jackson when the regular folks among us—like you and I—may find it necessary to fight against those we have entrusted to lead us, whether they’re appointed or in office. It doesn’t matter if you’re a taxpayer with a house and two kids or an 8th grader in a Jackson public school, ineffective leadership affects us all. Top-heavy administrations have become the enemy of progress, in city hall and in the central office. When you take those top-heavy positions and add in egos, the mixture gets more volatile. I am a fan of Dr. Steve Perry, the outspoken founder of Capital Prep Magnet School in Hartford, Conn. He’s a guy after my own heart, because he’s a young go-getter who pisses off teachers’ unions and bureaucrats alike. I wholeheartedly agree with him when he said recently that too many people have “leadership” jobs—such as mayor, senator, superintendant or principal—who aren’t “natural leaders.” Consequently, they spend time touting their résumés and overcompensating. Could “over-degreed” but talentless administrators in all areas be our problem? And are those folks’ careers only continuing be-

cause we allow them to do so—through the ballot, the pulpit or the boardroom? There is a definite difference in people who hold several degrees and padded “puffy” resumes—who folks assume are qualified to lead—and being a natural leader of men and women. Some city and school officials are so smart and so educated; yet, they are clueless to the needs of those they serve. We’ve become a society so impressed with a person’s ability to rattle off degrees and job stints that we don’t realize many use their bona fides to mask the fact that they have leadership deficiencies. You may have four degrees in education, but you don’t recognize a troubled 16-year-old who goes home to a bad environment every night? You may have four degrees in urban planning and three more in political science, but you have no connection with lay people. You may have no idea how to make people “feel” like they, and the city, are going in a good direction. This city needs fighters—people not afraid to make enemies and not afraid to make those pushing for the status quo uncomfortable. We need natural leaders in and out of office. Unconventional. Unorthodox. Ones who know what their constituents, the ones I call the “common folk,” are going through. Are you tired of being told what’s “best for us” by others? Then it’s time to speak up and upset that apple cart. And that’s the truth ... sho-nuff.

Email letters to letters@jacksonfreepress.com, fax to 601-510-9019 or mail to P.O. Box 5067, Jackson, MS 39296. Include daytime phone number. Letters may be edited for length and clarity. Or write a 300-600-word “Your Turn” and send it by email, fax or mail above with a daytime phone number. All submissions are subject to fact checks.

by Adria Walker

Editor-in-Chief Donna Ladd Publisher Todd Stauffer

EDITORIAL Managing Editor Ronni Mott News Editor Elizabeth Waibel Reporters Jacob Fuller, R.L. Nave Events Editor Latasha Willis Deputy Editor Briana Robinson Copy Editor Dustin Cardon Contributing Editors Tam Curley,Valerie Wells Music Listings Editor Natalie Long Fashion Stylist Meredith Sullivan Writers Torsheta Bowen, Quita Bride, Marika Cackett, Richard Coupe, Scott Dennis, Bryan Flynn, Diandra Hosey, Pamela Hosey, Robyn Jackson, Garrad Lee, Larry Morrisey, Robin O’Bryant, Eddie Outlaw, Julie Skipper Editorial Interns Elyane Alexander, Brittany Kilgore, Whitney Menogan, Adria Walker Consulting Editor JoAnne Prichard Morris

ART AND PHOTOGRAPHY Art Director Kristin Brenemen Advertising Designer Andrea Thomas Production Designer Latasha Willis Graphic Designer Holly Harlan Staff Photographer Virginia Schreiber Editorial Cartoonist Mike Day Photographers Trip Burns, William Patrick Butler,Tate K. Nations, Jerrick Smith, Amile Wilson Graphic Design Interns Eric Bennett, Erica Sutton

ADVERTISING SALES Sales Director Kimberly Griffin Account Executive Mandy Beach Advertising Coordinator Monique Davis Sales Intern Morgan Bares

BUSINESS AND OPERATIONS Bookkeeper Montroe Headd Executive Assistant Erica Crunkilton Distribution Manager Matt Heindl Distribution Avery Cahee, Raymond Carmeans, Jeff Cooper, Mik Davis, Clint Dear, Richard Laswell

ONLINE Web Developer Matt Heindl Web Editor Dustin Cardon Web Producer Korey Harrion

CONTACT US: Letters letters@jacksonfreepress.com Editorial editor@jacksonfreepress.com Releases releases@jacksonfreepress.com Queries editor@jacksonfreepress.com Listings events@jacksonfreepress.com Advertising ads@jacksonfreepress.com Publisher todd@jacksonfreepress.com News tips news@jacksonfreepress.com Internships interns@jacksonfreepress.com Fashion style@jacksonfreepress.com

Jackson Free Press P.O. Box 5067, Jackson, Miss., 39296 Editorial (601) 362-6121 Sales (601) 362-6121 Fax (601) 510-9019 Daily updates at jacksonfreepress.com The Jackson Free Press is the city’s award-winning, locally owned newsweekly, with 17,000 copies distributed in and around the Jackson metropolitan area every Wednesday. The Jackson Free Press is free for pick-up by readers; one copy per person, please. Firstclass subscriptions are available for $100 per year for postage and handling. The Jackson Free Press welcomes thoughtful opinions. The views expressed in this newspaper are not necessarily those of the publisher or management of Jackson Free Press Inc. © Copyright 2012 Jackson Free Press Inc. All Rights Reserved

Association of Alternative Newsweeklies

Politics Through My Eyes

n the space of one week, I witnessed at least five arguments, three temper tantrums and random bouts of cheering. No, I was not at a football or basketball game. I was at the Mississippi Capitol, serving as a Senate page. I was extremely excited when I found out that I had been accepted to serve as a Senate page. One of my favorite films, “Mr. Smith Goes to Washington,” is set in the U.S. Senate. The senators in this film are distinguished and professional. Everyone is sophisticated, and the awkward Mr. Smith is extremely out of place. I expected our Senate and senators to be similar to those in the movie, but I was way off. Serving as a Senate page, I got a firsthand look at the functioning of our state Senate. This is a historic year for the Mississippi Legislature. This is the first year since Reconstruction that both the House of Representatives and the Senate have a Republican majority— and this is quite obvious if you sit in the Senate chamber and watch the debates. Most of the Republican senators have a smug demeanor while debating because they’re sure their bills will pass, no matter how much of a fight the Democrats put up. Sen. Kelvin Butler, a Democrat from McComb, appeared to take up time making jokes during the debates. This may have been his way of slowing down the process in an attempt to prevent some bills from getting passed. It seems to me that this was the only way the Democrats could stop legislation. The week that I paged, March 12-16, the senators were on a time crunch. They had to get all of the bills in their house passed by Thursday, March 15, or the bills would automatically die. Butler wasn’t the only senator who made jokes. Sen. Kenneth Jones, D-Canton, and Sen. Will Longwitz, R-Madison, are just a few of the senators who had their share of jokes to make, although Sen. Longwitz and other Republicans more than likely weren’t trying to stall the process. Instead of necessarily doing what was best for the state, the senators tended to vote along party lines. I noticed that many of the bills that did pass appeared to only help the rich or businesses, but not the poor or middle-class Mississippians. For instance, Senate Bill 2576 seeks to change the workers’ compensation laws of this State. The changes are more favorable to the employer than to the employee. When many of the senators speak

of how they represent “The People,” they should be clearer and say that they represent “The People with Money.” Now, I know I’m generalizing here. Not every senator cares more for business and the rich and having power and money than the people he represents. For instance, Sen. Hob Bryan, a Democrat from Amory, fought vehemently against Senate Bill 2380, which made it legal to fire without any reason state employees who are under the purview of the Mississippi State Personnel Board. I, like many of the other pages, was very moved by Sen. Bryan’s speech, but evidently the other senators were not so moved, and the bill passed the Senate. At first glance or first listen, all the bills seem like good ideas. The senators glamorize the high points and neglect to inform the public of the low points. It isn’t until you start to listen—really listen—to the bills that you realize how bad of an idea some of them are. Take the workers’ compensation bill. On its face, it seems very reasonable. The legislation purports to make the system fair for both the employee and the employer. However, it is not. Currently, employees in this state who are covered by workers’ compensation must accept that compensation as their remedy when they are injured on the job. Under state law, they cannot sue outright, but must accept a certain percentage of their wages as compensation. They do not have to prove the injury was work related; it is presumed that it is. If Senate Bill 2576 becomes a law, the employee still will not be able to sue the employer and still must accept a set percentage of his or her salary as compensation. But in addition to all this, they must also prove that the injury is work related. This is not fair to the employee. I love Mississippi. I love the people, I love that Mississippi scenery, I love everything that makes our state special—the good and the bad; it gives Mississippi character. But if we don’t do something to change the way our government is currently being run, I am afraid for Mississippi’s future. My future. Would I like to page again? You bet I would. Adria Walker is a ninth grader at Murrah High School. She is an aspiring writer and an intern at the Jackson Free Press.

I expected our senators to be similar to those in ‘Mr. Smith Goes to Washington.’

Revealing Heaven On Earth 8:30 a.m. A Service of Word and Table 9:30 a.m. Sunday School for all ages 11:00 a.m. Worship Service Live Streaming at www.gallowayumc.org Televised on WAPT Children’s Church Ages 4-Kindegarten Nursery Available Ages 6 weeks-3 years

305 North Congress Street Jackson, MS 601-353-9691 English 601-362-3464 Spanish www.gallowayumc.org

jacksonfreepress.com

FIRST PERSON

April 25 - May 1, 2012

oncern about apathy among their peers led several Northwest Rankin High School students to start Students With A Goal, or SWAG, to support each other as they serve the community. Terry Hunt, the group’s faculty coordinator, says SWAG got started after several students attended a summit at the William Winter Institute for Racial Reconciliation. “They came back with the idea about changing the school climate, which they saw as being apathetic,” Hunt says. The group’s goals are very broad and flexible, so the projects change depending on what community service project the students want to accomplish. “It’s just, ‘Oh, you have a goal? Tell us what it is, and we’ll help you achieve it,’” Hunt says. “… It’s giving enough support that when people have a passion for something, they can come and get the help they need.” Through SWAG, students have hosted bake sales, sold T-shirts and sunglasses and hosted events to raise money for projects. They have planted a garden at the school, raised money for the Community Animal Rescue Association and raised funds to give custodians a Christmas gift. They recently received a grant from Jackson 2000 to put a watering system in their garden. Last week, SWAG arranged for four Freedom Riders to come speak at Northwest Rankin. The students have been studying the Freedom Rides and the Civil Rights Movement in Mississippi this year. “I’ve been living here my whole life, and I never heard a lot of this stuff,” says Tasi Jones, a junior at the school and a member of SWAG. “It feels really great to know stuff that’s shaped Mississippi and how far we’ve come.” After hearing some of the Freedom Riders speak at an event last summer to mark the 50th anniversary of the rides, the students from SWAG decided to invite them to Northwest Rankin. They stayed after school to study the Freedom Rides and put together a display about what they learned in the foyer of the school’s Performing Arts Building, complete with stories and photos of the people who spoke at the school. Krysta Zuvic, a senior at Northwest Rankin and a member of SWAG, says meeting the Freedom Riders in person makes the Civil Rights Movement seem more real than simply reading about it in a textbook. “What’s crazy is that you read about it in a book (and think), ‘Oh, that’s past, that’s history.’ ... That wasn’t that long ago,” she says. Bob Zellner, one of the Freedom Riders, encouraged the students to make a difference in their own communities. “It’s always small minorities, like you guys, who take the lead,” he says. —Elizabeth Waibel

Ole Miss Community Service Leaders

le Miss admissions counselor Jason Welch’s voice glowed as he spoke about the 24 students from 21 Jackson metropolitan area high schools that make up the first class of Ole Miss Community Service Leaders. The program sought interested seniors dedicated to service even if they were not interested in attending the University of Mississippi. “I work with hundreds of students all year, but the selflessness of this group has been inspiring and refreshing,” he says. “These students are the leaders in their high schools. … They’re involved in everything— the brightest kids in their schools—yet, they still find time to give back.” The Blair E. Batson Hospital for Children’s Child Life Department and its activity rooms on each floor provided an avenue for the students’ accomplishments. The Ole Miss Community Service Leaders program involved the seniors in service campaigns at their home schools, collecting comforting giveaways for patients staying in the hospital and for outpatients. Program participants collected more than 3,000 coloring books and more than 3,500 Hot Wheels toys for sick kids at Batson last year. The students also collected more than $2,500 in funds for the hospital’s child life department. On April 14, 126 students came together at the Jackson Convention Complex for the Ole Miss Community Service Day in Jackson. Led by Ole Miss Community Service Leaders, the students worked at eight stations, creating items ranging from friendship bracelets and tie-dyed pillowcases to tissue-paper flowers and parents’ activity packets. They ended up with items galore, which will brighten the lives of children at Blair E. Batson for days to come. You can see for yourself how the day went on the program’s Facebook fan page. —Lynette Hanson

COURTESY JASON WELCH

VIRGINIA SCHREIBER

SWAG: Students with a Goal

ailey Brilley loves to talk. Whether he’s chatting about speech and debate, street art, community service, or church, the lively 15-year-old demonstrates heaps of eloquent passion about his life and interests. “If anything, I talk too much, ” Brilley says. “I haven’t shut up since I learned to (talk).” Since his early childhood, Brilley has loved networking. He’s the true archetype of a “people person.” His natural charisma and eager demeanor draw people in and inspire them to share Brilley’s passion for life. “I just like to get people interested in what I’m interested in,” he says. Born and raised in Jackson, Brilley has had many opportunities to use his oratory skills. He is a member of Youth Leadership Jackson, a community-wide program designed to expose young leaders to the inner workings of the city. He also serves on the Mayor’s Youth Council, where he is a liaison between the city’s youth and executive staff. In addition, Brilley is an avid participant in the speech and debate program at St. Joseph Catholic School, where he is a sophomore. “I have a weird relationship with speech (and debate),” he says. “I have this sick love for getting up at six o’clock in the morning and mouthing off to people for hours.” Brilley’s favorite event is Youth Legislature, where he has been named Most Outstanding Statesman. Brilley also has a strong Catholic foundation, which is responsible for his interest in community service. He attended World Youth Day in Madrid, has taken a service trip to Belize and represented his diocese at the National Catholic Forensics League in Baltimore. “I love to meet new people and see where they fit in the world,” he says. Though many think he’s well-suited to the path of politics, Brilley hopes to one day attend The Cooper Union in New York City, where he would study engineering, art or architecture. Until then, he will continue to be a young leader in his community, always with something to say. —Sadaaf Mamoon

Adria Walker

t’s easy to forget that Adria Walker is 14 years old. She says she already “claims” 15, though, with a birthday in July. As a promising young journalist in the Jackson Free Press intern program, Walker never hesitates to jump on an assignment. The Murrah High School 9th grader says that her career options are either to be a journalist, an English professor or a book reviewer. “Anything with literature,” she says. The Literati Club is her favorite school activity this year. Club members read a book each month and then get together to discuss it. This month, it’s “The Line,” by Terri Hall. “It’s a dystopian novel,” Walker says. “It’s a serious book.” She’s a big “Star Wars” fan; her favorite character is Anakin Skywalker, aka Darth Vader. She stopped eating beef and pork, she says, after reading “Animal Farm” by George Orwell, and talks to her friends seriously about animal abuse and animal rights. Earlier this year, Walker was a page at the Capitol for state Sen. Hillman Frazier, which she wrote about for the JFP (see page 13). She’s also a talented musician, with about a year’s experience playing the cello. “Before that, I played the violin for seven or eight years,” she says, adding that she also played the saxophone “a little bit.” Walker is eager to get on with things. She’s not eligible to take advanced placement classes as a freshman, she says, but she’s planning on it for her sophomore year and beyond. This year, in addition to the Literati Club, she’s in the International Club and the Latin Club. “Next year, I’ll be on the newspaper staff,” she says with a grin. “It’s fun interviewing people.” Her college plans include Columbia University, she says, mainly because it’s in New York City. What doesn’t she enjoy about school? “Geometry,” she says, without a moment’s hesitation. “I’m not really a math person.” —Ronni Mott

Eve Rodenmeyer

ve Rodenmeyer is a 16-year-old travel enthusiast. This 11th-grade Malone Scholar at St. Andrew’s Episcopal School has traveled all over the world in the name of diversity. From San Francisco to Ghana and Scotland, Rodenmeyer is constantly adding new places to her list. A school grant helped fund Rodenmeyer’s recent trip to Ghana. “Ghana is my favorite of all the places I’ve ever been,” Rodenmeyer says. “It was so new, different and interesting. I got to meet some of their finest students. We spoke to some of the them and bought them books.” Rodenmeyer’s interest in traveling isn’t about vacationing. It goes hand-in-hand with her love for diversity and cultural awareness. “I want to encourage people to get over any ignorance about diversity,” Rodenmeyer says. “Increasing awareness of diversity is so important in going forward in the future. It will help things run smoother.” When she isn’t traveling the world, Rodenmeyer spends most of her time studying and participating in extracurricular activities at school. “School takes up a lot of my time,” Rodenmeyer says. “St. Andrew’s is very rigorous.” The oldest of three, Rodenmeyer works hard to be a role model for her younger siblings. She strives to live up to the high expectations set by her parents, school and her local community. Although studying and maintaining good grades is her top priority, she still finds balance between academics and her social life. She is a member of the student admissions team, the bowling team and cross-country team. She is also a member of Youth Leadership Jackson. After graduating, Rodenmeyer plans to study literature. She has not decided on which college she prefers, but is interested in the University of California at Berkeley. —Jessica Simien 15 jacksonfreepress.com

COURTESY BAILEY BRILLEY

Bailey Brilley

VIRGINIA SCHREIBER

t won’t be long before Alonte Davis-Anderson is strengthening our community—in fact, he already is. Davis-Anderson has been involved with the United Way of the Capital Area’s Youth Dropout Prevention Council for nearly two years. Being on the council has given Davis-Anderson, an 11th grader at Wingfield High School in Jackson, the opportunity to work with other youth from around the metro area and to come up with ideas and solutions for ending the dropout crisis in Jackson Public Schools. Through the council, he has spoken with state legislators, city and school district officials and put forward a student’s voice at the decision-making table. He has also helped guide workshops and forums for students and adults. Davis-Anderson recently got back from a trip to Washington, D.C., where he represented the Youth Dropout Prevention Council from Mississippi at a nationwide Graduation Summit attended by, among others, Secretary of Education Arne Duncan. Davis-Anderson is not scared to ask the questions and provide clear insight as to what is going on in our schools. At a recent event he stood up and questioned a panel of education “experts” and elected officials. “Why did we put so much money into building new athletic field-houses in JPS, when, (1) most of us aren’t athletes, and (2) many of us, including myself, don’t have textbooks to take home for all our classes?” he asked them. By being who he is, Davis-Anderson is changing the way we see our youth in Jackson and transforming the negative portrayals of our youth, especially black males, that are all too ubiquitous in the media. Davis-Anderson is a future architect or engineer. He is looking at Howard University, Mississippi State, the University of Mississippi or Jackson State University for college. —Ronni Mott

K. RODENMEYER/MOSAIC MEDIA

COURTESY ALONTE DAVIS ANDERSON

Alonte Davis-Anderson

April 25 - May 1, 2012

COURTESY KRISTEN DUPARD

eing bullied in school—and a few adults who helped her get through it—inspired Jamie Ferguson to reach out to younger girls going through the often-difficult middle-school years. During her reign as Miss Clinton this year, Ferguson, 18, is promoting an anti-bullying platform that she calls “You Are Loved.” “In junior high I was bullied, and I think everyone goes through some form of that, whether it’s someone else bullying you or whether it’s putting yourself down,” she says. Ferguson says one of her teachers as well as a family friend, Hugh Turner, inspired her to get involved in anti-bullying efforts. Turner, who passed away last year, gave out buttons that said, “I am loved,” which gave Ferguson the idea for naming her campaign. Turner also gave Ferguson some of her first opportunities to sing at different places. She plans to attend Mississippi College next year and major in vocal performance or music education. Ferguson, who is an only child, lives in Clinton with her parents and is a senior at Clinton High School. “I’ve lived here my whole life—same room and everything,” she says. She also has a longtime connection to Wells United Methodist Church in Jackson. Her father has attended Wells for about 25 years, her parents were married in the church and Ferguson has gone there her entire life. Through her church and in her spare time, Ferguson has been able to promote her You Are Loved campaign at the Methodist Children’s Home, day cares and schools in the Clinton area. She also started a chapter of Girl Talk, a national nonprofit organization that gets high school girls to mentor junior high girls in hopes of promoting leadership and positive self-images. Ferguson will go to the Miss Mississippi pageant in June. —Elizabeth Waibel

Kristen Dupard

er teacher, Adam Frazier, describes Kristen Dupard as having a sharp wit and great sense of humor. Dupard is a young woman with an impressive list of accolades and big plans for the future. Dupard, 18, was born in New Orleans, La., but relocated to Mississippi after Hurricane Katrina in the summer of 2006. She is a member of the National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta, Junior Diplomats of Ridgeland, Ridgeland High School Ambassadors, Global Debate and the National Forensics League. As a Junior Diplomat, she volunteers regularly. “I think it’s important to volunteer in your community because it shows that you’re not just using all of the accolades that come with living in a great community, but you are actually a part of the team that makes it and keeps it great,” she says. She is also on the basketball team and serves as the equipment manager for the football team at her school. Dupard is also a gifted orator, earning Premier distinction for dramatic interpretation in the National Forensics League. She is also the two-time state champion for Poetry Out Loud, an annual contest that encourages high-school students to learn about great poetry through memorization and recitation. As champion, Dupard received a stipend and an all-expenses-paid trip to Washington, D.C., where she will vie for the national title in May. For the competition, Dupard has chosen “Invitation to Love” by Paul Laurence Dunbar, “I’m A Fool to Love You” by Cornelius Eady and “What Work Is” by Philip Levine. After she graduates this year from Ridgeland High School, Dupard plans to attend the University of Southern Mississippi and double major in nursing and broadcasting. She wishes to earn her doctorate in nursing and become a health correspondent for CNN or MSNBC. Dupard credits her mother, Angela Dupard, as her “backbone,” and strives to live by her mom’s motto: “A dream not gone after is a dream wasted.” — ShaWanda Jacome

COURTESY JONATHAN MOORE

Jamie Ferguson

Jonathan Moore

onathan Moore, 18, is an achiever. I would wager to say that he is an overachiever. This young man’s accomplishments could fill a three-page resume, and he is only a senior in high school. I would love to own a company and hire this young man as a junior executive in training. His mother, Dr. Delilah Moore, is excited and proud that her son is getting so many opportunities to present himself to the public. She is a parent who has invested in her child, and she is enjoying the dividends. Jonathan Moore, a member of the America’s Promise Alliance board of trustees, is a senior at Mohr’s Academy. According to an article from the Americas Promise Group, Moore has been active in the United Way Drop Out Prevention Council. He presented data at a panel discussion on local dropout statistics including the reasons why students drop out of school. He also interviewed youth, organized panels and led discussions to determine the types of interventions that would lead to solutions. In addition, Moore is a Red Cross certified lifeguard and recently interned for eight weeks as a volunteer patient assistant at River Oaks Hospital. In school, Moore has held several youth leadership positions, including being president of his senior class. Moore tutored middle-school students at the Teen Study Center at the Charles Tillman public library, which named him peer counselor of the year, and was a Math Literacy worker for the Young People’s Project. “I use a hands-on approach when I mentor a student,” Moore says. In March, Moore spoke at this year’s America’s Promise Alliance Grad Nation Conference in Washington, D.C., and he helped plan the youth track for the conference. —Alonzo Lewis II

COURTESY JOSH MCLEMORE

COURTESY JAMIE FERGUSON

from page 15

Josh McLemore

t 16, Josh McLemore is already preparing for a career in politics. A sophomore at Brandon High School, McLemore has an eclectic mix of academic and extracurricular interests. He has eschewed his middle-school practice of hanging out only with his group of close friends and now moves effortlessly between the various groups that comprise the high-school social hierarchy. “I’ve matured and realized I wouldn’t want someone leaving me out,” McLemore says. “I’m at a place in high school where I’m friends with everyone.” Aspiring to be well rounded, McLemore does a little bit of everything. In March, McLemore attended a campaign rally for former Republican U.S. House Speaker Newt Gingrich in Brandon, but that isn’t necessarily an indication of his political leanings. McLemore points out that he reads literature by and about figures from both the left and right sides of the political spectrum. Because he’ll be eligible to vote in a couple years, he wants to see whose views he likes the best, he says. When he runs for office, he wants to focus attention on young people and providing activities, community centers and live music venues for people his age. As a member of the Brandon High School Thespian Society, McLemore played one of the privileged socs who tried to drown Ponyboy in a recent production of S.E. Hinton’s “The Outsiders,” but it may be his participation in a rock band that best readies him for political rock stardom. McLemore’s band, Right of Skylight, which he describes as modern rock akin to Blink 182 or All Time Low, plays gigs in Mississippi and neighboring states. McLemore writes the music and lyrics, plays guitar and does backup vocals for the group. He’s applying for summer jobs and hopes to make a little money with the home studio he received as a birthday present last October. With all that he has going on, finding time for his class work can be a challenge. His favorite classes include chemistry, mathematics and oral communication. Of the last one he says, “I love that class because I love to talk.” —R.L. Nave

COURTESY KRYSTAL JACKSON

Krystal Jackson

Abbie Szabo

orthwest Rankin High School senior Abbie Szabo, 18, knows how to set goals and make plans to accomplish them. Next on her list: to learn Mandarin Chinese this summer while on a sixweek-long trip to China. “You come back a new person—you can’t hear the same way again,” Szabo says about traveling abroad. “You think differently after an experience like this.” This fall, she heads to the University of Mississippi where she will major in international studies and Mandarin Chinese. In case that foreign language does not suit her particular skills, Szabo has a back-up language— Spanish. After her immersion in Mandarin Chinese this summer, she’ll know for sure which way to go, she says. She also plans to study nursing. “I just want to help people,” she says. Szabo, active in the Beta Club, student government and cheerleading at Northwest Rankin, also spent time in the last two years as part of a student group, Students With a Goal. Founded to stop school apathy, SWAG started its first projects this school year. The student group raised money for the school’s custodians first-ever Christmas bonus and planted a community garden. Szabo’s skills as a project manager helped SWAG meet both goals. Recently, SWAG invited four Freedom Riders, the first black teacher in Rankin County (who is now 87), students from Holmes County, former governor William Winter and other dignitaries to an on-campus forum. This event incorporated several aspects of SWAG’s four core goals: environmental sustainability, civic awareness, cultural pluralism and justice in education. “It is what you make it,” Szabo says about life. “You’re not going to get anything out of it if you don’t put anything into it—life, SWAG, going to China. You won’t feel rewarded unless you try.” —Lynette Hanson

jacksonfreepress.com

VIRGINIA SCHREIBER

rystal Jackson is not your average teenage girl trying to find herself—she knows exactly what her purpose is. An artist and singer, this 10th grade Murrah High School and Power APAC student, age 15, has her heart and mind set on becoming a well-known opera singer. “In elementary school, I did a lot of arts and crafts, and I’ve been taking private vocal lessons since I was 6 years old. It has just always been my thing,” Jackson says. “My talent is God-given.” Her ability in both music and art helps her find balance. “Art calms and centers me. Singing makes me feel so alive—I love it,” she says. “If I lost my voice and couldn’t sing, I’d just die.” A member of Central United Methodist Church, Jackson’s faith motivates her to pursue her dreams. At her church, she is president of the Youth Council, a member of the Central Praise Team and a Morning Glory Singer. Her role as president of the Youth Council allows her to give the youth of her church a voice. “I wanted leadership at my church because I love my church, and it keeps me grounded,” she says. “I try to be an advocate for the youth of the church.” Her talent was recently showcased at the Central United Methodist Church Mississippi Conference annual banquet. She felt a boost of confidence as she received recognition from those who matter most to her. “When I go to competitions, I always feel average because there are so many other kids with just as much talent,” Jackson says. “Being highlighted at the banquet made me realize that I really do have a gift.” Krystal plans to continue studying music in college, and hopes to attend Julliard or the New England Conservatory of Music. “A lot of people will misunderstand you, but we all deserve happiness,” Jackson says. “Go for your passions because if you don’t utilize your gifts, they can and will fade away.” —Jessica Simien

Always In Style Enrolling Now for May Day and evening class schedules are available. NEW 3 DAY FLEX SCHEDULE Students can attend class three days a week with weekends off. Full service student salon, all work performed by students supervised by licensed instructors.

$50.00 Off

GK Juvexin Hair Taming Treatment For more information about our graduation rates, the median debt of students who completed the program, and other important information, please visit our website at, www.magnoliacollegeofcosmetology.com Photo Courtesy of Pivot Point International Inc.

April 25 - May 1, 2012

4725 I-55 N • Jackson, MS • 601.362.6940 www.magnoliacollegeofcosmetology.com

(Next door to McDades Market Extra) Mon. - Sat., 10 am - 9 pm • Maywood Mart Shopping Center 1220 E. Northside Dr. • 601-366-5676 • www.mcdadeswineandspirits.com

Always Drink Responsibly

Stephanie Barone

Matthew Spann

atthew Spann speaks with the eloquence and confidence of an older man even though he’s only 17. His bass-baritone voice is just one thing that sets him apart. This Jim Hill High School junior is involved in enough things to be considered established. At school, Spann is the president of the choir and serves on the prom and homecoming committees. He is also part of Jim Hill’s International Baccalaureate program. In student government this year, Spann is a class representative; last year he was the sophomore class president. He has been participating in student government since middle school. Outside school, Spann works with Youth Leadership Jackson. Recently, the group went to Brown Elementary School to help rebuild the playground. Spann volunteered with the Mississippi Blues Marathon for the first time this year. “It’s what I love to do,” Spann says about being involved in the community and in school. “I’m a hard worker. If anyone calls on my help, I love to say yes.” Singing at Jim Hill and at his church, Greater Pearlie Grove Missionary Baptist Church, is one of his favorite pastimes. Music is a big part of his life, and he hopes to attend Ole Miss to study music education and minor in either political science or business administration. “I find music to be my calling. It’s my passion. It’s what I’ve grown up around,” Spann says. Both of his parents, Janice Yvette Spann and Matthew Ray Spann, are involved in music and the church. Janice sings in the adult choir, and his father was a pastor at their old church and is a drummer. “They are my biggest fans,” Spann says about his parents. “They are my inspiration. They are always by my side.” —Briana Robinson

jacksonfreepress.com

tephanie Barone moved from Argentina to Mississippi in 1998, when she was about four years old. She is the daughter of Maximiliana and Fernando Barone, and she is fluent in both Spanish and English. Barone is an 18-year-old senior at Jackson Preparatory School. At school, she is a member of the Mu Alpha Theta club because of her good math scores, the drama club because she loves acting, the French club because she is learning how to speak french and the Spanish club because of her Spanish roots. She is also a member of the National Honor society and was inducted into Jackson Prep’s chapter of the Cum Laude Society. The Mission of the Cum Laude Society, as stated on its website, is to recognize “academic achievement in secondary schools for the purpose of promoting excellence (Areté), justice (Diké) and honor (Timé).” Barone’s being recognized on Jackson Prep’s 2011-2012 faculty list portion of the school’s honor roll, meaning that she had an average of 95 and above in all her course work. Barone is active in community service, and she goes on mission trips and visits orphanages with her church, College Drive Seven Day Adventist Church in Pearl. She says she enjoys visiting the orphanages because she loves bringing a positive experience to children who are going through a negative time, and she loves showing them Jesus’ love. She is also a junior ambassador for Madison the City Chamber of Commerce. After graduating from high school, Barone plans to attend the University of Mississippi. — Adria Walker

COURTESY MATTHEW SPANN

COURTESY HORREL PHOTOGRAPHY

from page 17

19 JCV7210 Event Campaign Template JFPress 9.5x6.167.indd 1

4/23/12 10:00 AM

RGANIZERS the graduation place

Choose your gifts. let us wrap them to perfection & call the recipients

Now Wasn’t That Easy! Highland Village • 4500 I-55N Suite 174 • Jackson, MS

istoric driving tour of Oxford and the University of Mississippi on the famous Double Decker bus. Tour will include stops at two historic homes: the L.Q.C. Lamar House and Cedar Oaks Mansion.

Tickets are $8 for adults and $4 for children and include admission into both homes. Tour departs from Skipwith Cottage on the Square.

April 25 - May 1, 2012

Tour Dates

ONLY 2 TOUR DATES LEFT! Friday, April 27 at 3pm (Double Decker Weekend)

Friday, May 11 at 3pm For ticket information, contact the Oxford CVB at 662-232-2477.

Madison Burgess

igraine headaches wouldn’t leave Madison Burgess alone. They reached around her skull and stayed for hours, even days. She missed the first half of her sophomore year of high school because of repeated attacks. The migraines continued into her junior year, and she missed more classes. Despite the debilitating condition, Burgess not only did her schoolwork, she made the honor roll in her advanced placement classes. She carved out time to volunteer. And along the way, she got the idea of becoming a medical doctor. While school is her main priority, Burgess finds lots of time to help others. She founded Operation Prom Princess to help girls who couldn’t afford gowns, and she helps with many other efforts, including Stewpot Community Service. “We are blessed to bless others,” Burgess says. Now 17 and a senior at Madison Central High School, Burgess is making plans for college. She is leaning toward Mississippi College in Clinton. “It’s closer to family,” she says. Burgess wants to major in chemistry as an undergraduate before tackling medical school. Ever since the first migraine attacks sent her to doctors and specialists, a woman neurologist who helped treat Burgess left a deep impression on the teen’s psyche. Her career goal is to be a doctor—perhaps a pediatric neurologist. Now, Burgess controls her migraine attacks with a strict sleep routine and a diet geared to her personal chemistry, which she must balance with school and volunteering. “I didn’t want to be that person who just gave up,” Burgess says. “I didn’t want to be the person who couldn’t overcome obstacles.” She took on extra work, stayed extra hours and worked —Valerie Wells harder. “I always wanted to keep trying.”

VIRGINIA SCHREIBER

601-981-1973

COURTESY MADISON BURGESS

from page 19

Melvin Davis Jr.

elvin Davis Jr. recently took first place in the engineering division of the Hinds County district-wide science fair, winning a four-year scholarship to Jackson State University. This is the fourth year in a row that Davis, an 11th grader at Bailey Magnet High School, has placed in the top of the science fair’s engineering division. Davis’ project this year was swarm robots—a collection of robots that work together to perform a task. “The swarm robots can clean up spills or coordinate to go through a series of rooms,” Davis says. “I built four of them; there is one stationary robot that surveys the area and coordinates the others.” Davis, 16, hopes the robots can one day be used for large-scale projects such as cleaning up oil spills, and compares the way the swarm robots collaborate to an ant colony. Davis spent three weeks building the robots after two months developing schematics and gathering materials. He used parts salvaged from old appliances and wheels from old toy cars. The teen has been interested in robotics and machinery since early childhood. “The first time I watched ‘Terminator’ when I was 5, I became interested in robots,” Davis says. “I built my first electric motor in 6th grade. I took apart old radios and TVs, car starters and a cash register to build it. I got first place (in a science fair) for it.” He intends to apply to MIT and Stanford University (his first choice), with the JSU scholarship as a fallback plan, and major in electrical engineering and computer science. Davis also hopes to start his own robotics company one day. Davis and his family moved to Jackson from Washington, D.C.—where Davis was born— four years ago. The Davis family owns Lumpkins BBQ in Jackson, and Davis enjoys helping his parents, Monique Davis and Melvin Davis Sr., at the restaurant. (His mother also joins the JFP sales staff this week.) He also helps out with community projects along with his four younger siblings—three brothers, Charles, Benjamin and Daniel, and his sister, Ava. —Dustin Cardon

Adriana Parker

anier High School senior and native Jacksonian Adriana Parker, 18, directs her life by this quote: “If you don’t do your part, you can’t complain.” Other than prepping for her senior and getting ready for college next fall, Parker spent much of her spring volunteering for numerous organizations. She is actively involved with Read Across America, Operation Shoestring, JROTC and the Mayor’s Summer Youth Employment Program in Jackson. She has served three times on a panel for the United Way’s Drop Out Prevention Council. While on the panels, Parker discussed the impact that state tests have on schools and the affect they have on students. Parker tries her best to make a difference in the community where she lives, and it excites her to know that she has already succeeded. She feels that her peers, whether in school or in the community, “need an extra push from somebody their own age, because sometimes adults can’t reach them.” The teen encourages all youth to help their local communities and each other and to realize that they, too, can make a difference—even if it is something small. “Be the change you want to see in the world,” Parker says, quoting Mahatma Gandhi. —Whitney Menogan

jacksonfreepress.com

hen high school junior Mark Scott joined the Distributive Education Clubs of America, which prepares high school and college students for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality and management, he did so only because it was suggested to him by a teacher due to his low-key, serious nature. He never thought he’d have the opportunities that it has opened for him. “I was really inspired by my parents who told me to work now and play later,” Scott says about being involved in this business and marketing student organization. “That’s what DECA is—it’s very serious.” In February, Scott, 18, became president of the Mississippi chapter of DECA, and in April, he will carry the Mississippi state flag in the opening parade of states at the DECA International Career Development Conference in Salt Lake City, Utah. This international event will feature more than 16,000 students from across the world. Scott’s school, Callaway High School, will take six students to the competition. In addition to his commitments to DECA and to his academics, Scott is also a cornerback for the Callaway Charger football team and works a weekend job. “I’m always working and always on the go,” he says. Callaway principal Clyde Speaks says that Scott “epitomizes what we look for in a student athlete.” Scott has a strong interest in becoming a physical therapist after high school. Despite Scott’s humble attitude, Callaway DECA adviser Clayton Marble made no small deal of Scott being the organization’s state president and the leadership he displays at school. “Mark is the kind of student that makes you want to teach,” Marble says. “He is very courteous and respectful and sets a great example for the entire student body.” —Greg Pigott

ELIZABETH WAIBEL

COURTESY MARK SCOTT

Mark Scott

YOUNG PROFESSIONAL, HINDS STUDENT.

Registration Now – May 11 for Summer mini-term Summer mini-term classes begin May 14

“All that’s missing is YOU!” Tougaloo College 500 West County Line Road Tougaloo, Mississippi 39174

1.800.HINDSCC

601-977-7700 | 1-888-42GALOO

www.hindscc.edu JACKSON

RANKIN

www.tougaloo.edu

RAYMOND

UTICA

VICKSBURG

April 25 - May 1, 2012

Hinds Community College offers equal education and employment opportunities and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, disability or veteran status in its programs and activities. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies: Dr. George Barnes, Vice President for Administrative and Student Services, 34175 Hwy. 18, Utica, MS 39175, 601.885.7001.

6XPPHU 5HJLVWUDWLRQ 0D\

Beverly W. Hogan President

Summer Camps & Classes Guide - Paid Advertising Section

THE MUSEUM SCHOOL

2012 SUMMER ART CAMP FOR AGES 3 - 17 Don’t wait! Register your child today!

Mini Matisse

Young Artists

Studio I

Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 10 AM-11:30 AM SESSION 1: July 24-26 SESSION 2: July 31- August 2 Caregivers must attend with participants. $75 per session

rising 3-5th graders Monday - Friday 9 AM-4 PM SESSION 1: June 11-15 SESSION 2: June 18-22 $240 per session

rising 6-8th graders Monday - Friday 9 AM-4 PM SESSION 1: July 9-13 SOLD OUT SESSION 2: July 16-20 $250 per session

Little Masters

Art Connect Ages 8, 9, 10

Studio II

or rising 3-5th graders Monday - Friday 8 AM-5 PM An interdisciplinary camp presented with the MS Symphony Orchestra, Ballet MS, and MS Opera. SESSION 1: June 25-29 $300 per session

or rising 9-12th graders Monday - Friday 9 AM-4 PM SESSION 1: July 23-27 SESSION 2: July 30-August 3 $250 per session

Ages 8, 9, 10 or

Ages 3-4

Ages 5, 6, 7 or

rising K-2nd graders Monday - Friday 9 AM - NOON or 1 PM - 4 PM SESSIONS 1 & 2: June 11-15 SESSIONS 3 & 4: June 18-22 SESSIONS 5 & 6: June 25-29 $170 per session

Ages 11, 12, 13 or

Ages 14, 15, 16, 17

QUESTIONS? Contact the Museum’s Education Department @ 601-960-1515.

Visit WWW.MSMUSEUMART.ORG to register. MISSISSIPPI MUSEUM of ART 380 SOUTH LAMAR STREET JACKSON, MISSISSIPPI

Help prevent summer learning loss!

Summer Reading Book Clubs & Parties

May 19th — August 7th Students will receive hands-on help with their Summer Reading Assignments and will be encouraged to keep reading over the summer break.

jacksonfreepress.com

Go to www.MyUnitedWay.com for a schedule and to register.

Summer Camps & Classes Guide - Paid Advertising JPF Summer Camp Ad.pdf 1 Section 4/20/12 4:46 PM

A DV E NTU R E J

ENTRY

OU R NA L

Can’t wait for Camp!

June 11th-15th

Kitchen Chemistry Camp

June 18th-22nd

Mission to Imagination Museum Exploration Camp

June 25th-29th

Globe Trekkers Camp

July 9th-13th

Where the Wild Things Are! Camp

July 16th-20th

Express Yourself Camp

July 23rd-27th

Monster Exploration

You must be a Museum member to book a summer camp &DPS LV IRU FKLOGUHQ DJHV THHQV DQG XS FDQ YROXQWHHU WR EH FDPS ZRUNHUV

April 25 - May 1, 2012

Find out more about camps at mschildrensmuseum.com

877.793.KIDS (5437)

Summer Camps & Classes Guide - Paid Advertising Section

Millsaps College Summer Enrichment

for 2012 is bursting with fun, imagination, and the stuff of genius! Advanced Drawing for the Young !RTIST s +NITTING FOR "EGINNERS s $ANCE 4EAM "ASICS s $IGITAL %DITING 7ORKSHOP s -ANNERS WITH -S 7RIGHT s 0UPPETS AND 0LAYS s "IRDING #AMP #HARACTER !NIMATION 7ORKSHOP s #HEER $ANCE "ASICS s #HORAL -USIC #AMP s #LASS !CT 4HEATRE "ASICS s $ISCOVERING THE 9OUNG !RTIST s 0RAISE AND 7ORSHIP $ANCE FOR 9OUTH s 2EADING AND 7RITING IN #OLLEGE s 3UMMER 'UITAR 7ORKSHOP s #HAMBER -USIC $AY #AMP Register today: www.millsaps. EDU CONTED s JFP Lights AD.pdf

3/27/12

9:16 AM

E VENT

S P O T L I GH T ENTRY

45:

TALENT SEARCH

LIGHTS! CAMERA! IMAGINATION!

AUDITIONS WILL BE APRIL 27TH We are engaging children ages 3-12 years old in a talent search that is sure to spark their creativity. Children can audition to be the next star of the Mississippi Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Museumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s print, radio and television advertising. CHILDREN MUST REGISTER ONLINE TO PARTICIPATE. Admission to the event is $10 per person and auditions will be first come, first served.

you

BIG

STAr next R?

jacksonfreepress.com

Are

877.793.KIDS (5437) mschildrensmuseum.com

SWELLOPHONIC

8 DAYS p 28 | FILM p 29 | MUSIC p 30 | SPORTS p 36

Puppets on Parade

“D

um dum da dum dum dum,” the strings sing in my mind as I stroll down a sunny sidewalk on Lamar Street to speak with Mississippi Symphony Orchestra Executive Director Michael Beattie. I soon start humming the melodies from “Peter and the Wolf” to myself as they spring up from my childhood memories in anticipation. On April 28, an exciting mixed-media artistic experience is coming to town. The Mississippi Symphony Orchestra is bring-

by Kelly Bryan Smith

ing in Madcap Puppets, a lauded puppetry troupe from Cincinnati, Ohio, to participate in a performance of Prokofiev’s “Peter and the Wolf” and Stravinsky’s “The Firebird” along with the orchestra. “Whenever you hear puppets, you think kids,” Beattie says with a laugh, “but these are two of the finest composers of symphonic music, and this will be an interdisciplinary arts experience of the highest quality. I can tell you this: I am going to be in the front row!” The Mississippi Symphony Orchestra certainly hopes to bring families and kids to enjoy the matinee performance, but they want anyone who enjoys music to come experience what Beattie describes as a “marriage between orchestra and puppets.” This magical collaboration brings together outstanding artists. Madcap is a nationally recognized puppetry troupe that partners w i t h schools, museums, libraries a n d

y tes ur

What’s That I Hear?

o matter your age or level of musical experience, Michael Beattie offers a few questions to think about while you listen to the symphony performance. From a basic level of music appreciation to an in-depth discussion of musical theory, these questions will get you started. 1. What did I just hear? How can I describe its elements? 2. Is that melody new, or have I heard it earlier in the performance? If it is repeated, how has it changed? 3. What is each instrument playing? What is the effect? 4. How do the images and puppetry actions connect with the music?

The fun doesn’t end at the conclusion of the performance. Stay for the hands-on postperformance activities in the Mississippi Museum of Art’s Art Garden, organized by the Mississippi Symphony Orchestra, the Mississippi Children’s Museum, the Mississippi Museum of Art and the Mississippi Puppetry Guild. This is a time to meet the artists, make puppets and get acquainted with various orchestra instruments. Whether you’re young or young at heart, whether you are well-versed in musical theory or simply like the idea of spending a Saturday afternoon listening to great music, this performance is something you shouldn’t miss. See the Mississippi Symphony Orchestra and Madcap Puppets perform “Peter and the Wolf” and “The Firebird” Saturday, April 28, at 2 p.m. at Thalia Mara Hall (255 E. Pascagoula St., 601-960-1537). Ticket prices start at $15 (some reduced price tickets are available for ages 4-18 accompanied by a paying adult). For more information and tickets, visit msorchestra.com.

April 25 - May 1, 2012

Search for Child Stars

massive group of children caught Elaina Jackson’s attention at a hotel in Houston, Texas, last year. Jackson is the director of development and marketing at the Mississippi Children’s Museum, and she and her coworkers were attending a museum conference. They all noticed the large crowd. These particular children weren’t part of the conference agenda; they were at the hotel for a talent search. “Droves and droves of children were in their Sunday best,” Jackson said. The MCM staffers thought a talent search might make a perfect fundraiser back home.

by Valerie Wells

That was how the idea for “Lights, Camera, Imagination” began. The museum will hold the talent search April 27 beginning at 5:30 p.m. in its Arts Gallery. Contestants must register online and pay a $10 entry fee. Within the first hour of opening online registration April 9, a dozen entries came in, Jackson said. The competition is limited to the first 200 applicants. Four children will win a chance to star in print ads, billboards and broadcast commercials promoting the Mississippi Children’s Museum. Judges will choose one child from each of three age groups: 3 to 5 years

old, 6 to 8 years old and 9 to 12 years old. The fourth child will be the grand-prize winner from all age categories. The event won’t be all business. The museum plans activities and fun for children and their families that evening. “What we are really hoping to do is encourage children to perform and have confidence,” Jackson said. “We are not looking for an Oscar winner or a certain type.” To register or learn more about the talent search, visit mississippichildrensmuseum.com

file photo

s pet

P ap dc

Madcap Puppets and the Mississippi Symphony Orchestra team up for “Peter and the Wolf” April 28.

other entities to bring the arts to children. The troupe also takes on a variety of environmental issues, social concerns, and even conflict-resolution skills through its performances and workshops. What can you expect to see and hear in this performance? “Peter and the Wolf” will be performed on the Thalia Mara Hall stage in front of the orchestra with colorful, lifesize, three-dimensional puppets. A different instrument or section of the orchestra represents each character in the story. The strings represent Peter, for example, while clarinets “perform” the cat. Each character also has its own distinctive melody. For this reason, generations of parents have used “Peter and the Wolf” as an excellent introduction to the orchestra for children. Madcap will use a different puppetry medium for “The Firebird.” This classic Russian fairy tale will come to life with the orchestra on stage in front of a large screen. Behind the screen, Madcap artists will perform stunningly intricate shadow puppetry to tell the story of an enchanted bird that performs great magic in exchange for its freedom. Audiences may be less familiar with this story than with “Peter and the Wolf,” but Michael Beattie enthusiastically describes a vibrant fantasy suitable for all ages. When you watch this stunning performance of two different composers and two different puppetry styles, you may be surprised to discover that despite the incredibly professional product, the musicians will have only one rehearsal with the full orchestra and the musicians and the puppetry troupe together will have only one rehearsal before putting on what promises to be a seamless visual and auditory experience.

Jackson kids can audition to be in ads for the Mississippi Children’s Museum.

Shaping Notions of Art COURTESY NATALIE MAYNOR

by Valerie Wells

Captain Gonzo from FIGMENT Boston plays at “21 Drum Salute to Moose,” an installation at last year’s FIGMENT Jackson.

hitney Grant looked down the narrow path between two long lines of people. Blocking her view were wide-open palms gently waving and waiting for her. She ran down the highfive gauntlet, slapping hands, getting and giving high-fives and connecting with other participants at last year’s FIGMENT Jackson, an arts event heavy on participation. It was exhilarating. “I think I went through twice,” Grant said. Just a few minutes later, almost in the time it took the participants to gather and create the gauntlet, the lines dissipated and left no trace. Grant is an organizer of this year’s FIGMENT Jackson event April 28 and 29 in the Midtown Arts District. The free event pulled in more than 1,300 last year at the old Coke plant on Highway 80. “It was a variety of experiences. We had everything,” she said. “It was two days of wandering and having unexpected experiences.” The event is free, a point Grant stresses. “Even if we charge $1 to get in, that would exclude someone,” she said. FIGMENT has no corporate sponsors, and no artists are allowed to sell art at the event. The concept is inclusion and noncommercial celebration. It’s not a cold gallery of submissions to look at. “The idea is (that) everyone is an artist,” Grant said. “It’s not an evaluation of art; it’s not art just hanging on walls.” Last year, little children played in a plastic wading pool filled with flower petals instead of water. Journals and notebooks and pens and pencils dangled from tree branches inviting passersby to stop and write a note about dreams and wishes. With each new crawling participant or curious poker, a large modernistic monkey-bars structure created new light shows and musical tunes.

FIGMENT is not just for children, but you will want to play like a child. Interactive means more than observing others who create. “It’s kind of like a potluck art party,” Grant said. “It’s really the most grassroots thing I’ve ever been a part of.” FIGMENT is a multi-city arts festival that started in New York City. Now, the festival happens in Detroit and Boston as well as Jackson. David Koren, FIGMENT project executive producer and founder, calls it participatory art in the public realm. Artists will have booths with activities everyone can take part in. Grant and the other organizers set up the place, date and time, and they help applicants with the basic needs for each interactive idea. Some will need access to power, like the monkey-bar sized musical instrument from last year’s event. FIGMENT will block off Wilson Street for several outdoor projects, but expect many indoor installations as well. When Grant talked to the Jackson Free Press, she was still expecting more entries and couldn’t describe any new projects. The organizers approve most projects, making suggestions on how to make some even more interactive. They accept just about any idea, as long as it isn’t dangerous. Planning the logistics and support for FIGMENT has been time intensive. The first meeting for this year’s event was held in October. One of the big jobs is writing grants to pay for the free-to-the-public events. Even though the organizers charge nothing, some necessities still cost money. The organizers also have to consider the cost of security, insurance and some legal paperwork. Some professionals donate their services to the cause. “Everything is done on a volunteer basis,” Grant said. Every Wednesday for the past couple of months, the core team of volunteers has met on site in Midtown. FIGMENT organizers provide the infrastructure. One of the largest challenges FIGMENT Jackson organizers face is getting the word out. “It’s difficult. We have some money left over from last year that we are using for advertising,” Grant said. FIGMENT Jackson chose Midtown as its focus this year to make something positive happen where it’s not the norm. “We want people to come and be ready to unleash their creative side,” Grant said. “Drop your inhibitions and enjoy yourself.” FIGMENT Jackson 2012 is Saturday and Sunday, April 28 and 29, in the Midtown Arts District. FIGMENT Jackson’s central node is at the North Midtown Arts Center (121 Millsaps Ave.) and will expand into Millsaps Avenue, Wilson Street and McTyere Avenue as necessary. North Midtown is located south of Woodrow Wilson, west of Millsaps College, east of Mill Street and north of Fortification Street. Hours are noon to dark Saturday; 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday. Free. Visit jackson.figmentproject.org.

2012 Deep Delta Festival April 28, 2012 Downtown Rolling Fork

Schedule of Events 8:00: 5k Run/Walk

(sponsored by Sharkey Issaquena Health Network)

Main Stage Activities

9:00: Deep Delta Talent Show 10:00: Smiley & The Young Guns 11:00: The Grayhounds & guests 12:00: Delta Connection with Jacqueline Williams 1:00: Jamie Isonhood 2:00: Tea & Sympathy 3:00: DeAnna Nicole

Call 662.873.6261 for more information. Market Street Festival

SaturdayDowntown Columbus

May 5 Free & Open to the Public 5 entertainment stages with over

Market Street After Dark Mingo Fishtrap Friday Lukas & The of the Real May 4 PromiseNelson

7:30-9:00 p.m. 9:30-11:00 p.m.

Downtown Columbus 7:30-11 PM $10 tickets

Mingo Fishtrap

Lukas Nelson & The Promise of the Real

$10 Tickets can be purchased in advance at the Market Street Office at 107 5th Street North or at www.marketstreetfestival.com or at the gate. Food & beverages will be available for purchase. Ticket required for admission to gated area.

20 musical acts Children’s Stage and Activities area with 10 acts Over 225 Arts & Crafts Vendors Food Court with over 20 vendors & a pancake breakfast Ice cold beverages Car & Motorcycle Show, Tractor Display & 5K Run Zumba in the Streets with the Y Children’s Activities & Performances, Inflatables, Bungee Trampoline, Walk on Water Balloons, Pony Rides & Characters Junior Fire Fighter Games Ice Cream Eating Contest Tractor Display Video Game Trailer 5K Run WCBI Car Giveaway Hands on Marketplace Giveaways & Much More!!

sponsored by

May 1

2-for-1 Beer Specials Highlife, Highlife Lite, PBR, Schlitz, Fatty Natty

Wednesday

May 2

KARAOKE w/ DJ STACHE

FREE WiFi Open Mon-Sat, Restaurant open Mon-Fri 11 am-10 pm & Sat 4-10 pm

601-960-2700

facebook.com/Ole Tavern

Ole Tavern - Karaoke Pop’s Saloon - Karaoke Philip’s on the Rez - Karaoke w/ DJ Mike West Restaurant & Lounge, W. Capitol St. - Wild & Out Wednesday Comedy Show 8:45 p.m. $2 Papitos - John Mora 6-9 p.m. The Boardwalk - Live DJ Sportsman’s Lodge - Karaoke Burgers & Blues - Jesse “Guitar” Smith Bourbon Street - Karaoke Club Magoo’s - Open Mic Night 8 p.m. Hal & Mal’s - New Bourbon Street Jazz Band Med Grill - Battle of the Bands 9 p.m. Last Call - Karaoke Pelican Cove - Open Mic Night 6-10 p.m. Underground 119 - Chris Gill & D’Mar Fenian’s - Jason Turner Olga’s - Larry Brewer Dreamz JXN - Wasted Wednesdays

April 26 - Thursday Morningbell Records - Circus of the Seed Listening Party Cherokee Inn - D’lo Trio Ole Tavern - Ladies Night Olga’s - Hunter Gibson Martin’s - Ladies Night Hot Shots, Byram - Karaoke 8 p.m. Club Magoo’s - Ladies Night w/ DVDJ Reign Brady’s - Karaoke Que Sera - Jason Turner Bourbon Street - Happy Hour w/ Mike (from Mike & Marty) 4-7 p.m. free, Trent Tomlinson $20 Duling Hall - Janis Ian $20 adv., $25 at door St. Andrew’s Cathedral Chapel - Dr. John Paul, Shawn Leopard (harpsichord) 7:30 p.m. $15/$5 for students Georgia Blue - Bluesman Pelican Cove - Trivia Night 7-10 p.m. Hal & Mal’s - Sister Sparrow & The Dirty Birds (RR), Mark Whittington & Fingers Taylor (rest.) Burgers & Blues - Chris Gill Underground 119 - Pryor & The Tombstones Fenian’s - Legacy Kristos, Madison - Richard Lee Davis Cerami’s - Joseph LaSalla MS Museum of Art - High Note Jam Concert Series: Eric Stracener & The Frustrations 5:30 p.m. free; Operation Spring Fling w/ The Vamps 7:30 p.m. free, operationshoestring.org Wingstop, Clinton - Shaun Patterson Olga’s - Sergio Fernandez Downtown Cafe - Jarekus Singleton 9 p.m. Soulshine, Township - Dain Edwards SCH Chapel, Vicksburg - Great Broads of Broadway feat. Lester Senter Wilson 6 p.m. free

April 27 - Friday MS Museum of Art - Live at Lunch feat. Amazin Lazy Boi Band 12 p.m. The Penguin - Amos Brewer (saxophonist) 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Abeba - Tim Allen

4/27 4/27-29 4/28 5/3

Music listings are due noon Monday to be included in print and online listings: music@jacksonfreepress.com. Martini Room, Regency - Martini Fridays 9 p.m. Hot Shots, Byram - Karaoke 8 p.m. The Boardwalk - Karaoke The Med Grill - Eddie Cotton 9 p.m. Club Magoo’s - All Dance Night w/ DVDJ Reign Table 100 - David Pigott Pelican Cove - Shadz of Grey 6-10 p.m. Hal & Mal’s - That Scoundrel, Spacewolf (RR), Lucky Hand Blues Band (rest.) Parker House - Renegade Burgers & Blues - Shaun, Kenny, & Richard Underground 119 - Scott Albert Johnson Cups, Fondren - Marlowe & The Sea 7 p.m. Cerami’s - Joseph LaSalla Old Tavern - The Colonels Fenian’s - Cooper Miles F. Jones Corner - 2Xtreme Sam’s Lounge - Temporary Jane Martin’s - The Weeks w/ Light Beam Rider 10 p.m. Reed Pierce - South of 20 Pop’s Saloon - Exit 111 Debo’s Lounge - Karaoke 7-11 p.m. Bourbon Street - Back 40 9 p.m. $5 Morningbell Records - The Rough and Tumble 7 p.m. $5 Olga’s - Chris Gill & D’Mar Soulshine, Township - Barry Leach Soulshine, Old Fannin - Jon Clark Two Rivers, Canton - DoubleShotz

April 28 - Saturday Martin’s - Dead Confederate 10 p.m. Underground 119 - Jarekus Singleton Sam’s Lounge - Tribune, Soul Skard, ZYNC 9 p.m. $5 Pelican Cove - Haggard Collins 1-5 p.m., Jam Haus 6-10 p.m. Reed Pierce’s - Point Blank CS’s - David Womack 7-10 p.m. Martini Room, Regency - Soulful Saturdays 6 p.m. Hot Shots, Byram - Karaoke 8 p.m. Club Magoo’s - DVDJ Reign Burgers & Blues - Jesse “Guitar” Smith Blues Jam Fenian’s - Thomas Jackson Orchestra Cerami’s - Joseph LaSalla Ole Tavern - JAG w/ Vagabond Swing F. Jones Corner - Amazin Lazy Boi Band Pop’s Saloon - Exit 111 Belhaven University Center for the Arts - Festival of Barbershop Harmony 7 p.m. Capital Club - Royal All White Affair (JSU J-Settes reunion) feat. DJ Mixx Maestro 8 p.m. $20 Bourbon Street - Back 40 9 p.m. $5 Crawdad Hole - DoubleShotz Olga’s - Ronnie & Grant McGee Debo’s Lounge - Just Us Band 7-11 p.m. Irish Frog - Karaoke 8 p.m. The Coral Room, Vickburg - Leaf River Blues 8 p.m. $20 North Midtown Arts Center - FIGMENT - A Participatory Arts Festival noon-dark Ground Zero Blues Club, Clarksdale - Blessissippi Crossroads Concert feat. Morgan Freeman, Bobby Keys and Sugar Blue, Bill Payne & Maria Muldaur 8 p.m.

April 29 - Sunday Hot Shots, Byram - Mike and Marty’s Jam Session Hal & Mal’s - Kristin Thomas Benefit feat. Eupora, Shady Lamps, Acoustics Crossroads, XTremeZ, Larry Brewer, Lucky Hand Blues Band, Midnight Magic 1 -7 p.m. Pelican Cove - Will & Linda noon- 4 p.m., Diesel 255 5-9 p.m. Sophia’s, Fairview Inn - Knight Bruce 11 a.m. (brunch) Fitzgerald’s - Andy Hardwick (brunch) 11 a.m. Table 100 - Raphael Semmes (jazz brunch) 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Sombra Mexican Kitchen - John Mora 11 a.m.-2 p.m. The Med Grill - Eddie Cotton 6 p.m. Philip’s on the Rez - Shadz of Grey Burgers & Blues - Todd Thompson North Midtown Arts Center - FIGMENT - A Participatory Arts Festival 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Fenian’s - Máirtín de Cógáin (evening show) $12, $10 CHS members Dreamz JXN - GenerationNXT Concert Series 6 p.m. Crawdad Hole - Joey Plunkett

April 30 - Monday Morningbell Records & Studios Woods w/ MMOSS 7:30 p.m. Hal and Mal’s - Central MS Blues Society 7 p.m. $5 Martin’s - Open Mic Free Jam Fenian’s - Karaoke Ole Tavern - Pub Quiz Burgers & Blues - Karaoke The Penguin - Amos Brewer (saxophonist) 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

May 1 - Tuesday Hal & Mal’s - Pub Quiz Ole Tavern - Open Mic Fenian’s - Open Mic Time Out - Open Mic Night Margaritas - John Mora 6-9 p.m. Pizza Shack #2, Old Canton Rd. - The Ruminants w/daniel johnson 6-9 p.m. Bourbon Street in the Quarter - Doug Frank’s Invitational Jam w/ Fingers Taylor & Adib Sabir 7:30 p.m.

May 2 - Wednesday Ole Tavern - Karaoke Pop’s Saloon - Karaoke Philip’s on the Rez - Karaoke w/ DJ Mike West Restaurant & Lounge, W. Capitol St. - Wild & Out Wednesday Comedy Show 8:45 p.m. $2 Papitos - John Mora 6-9 p.m. The Boardwalk - Live DJ Sportsman’s Lodge - Karaoke Burgers & Blues - Jesse “Guitar” Smith Bourbon Street - Karaoke Club Magoo’s - Open Mic Night 8 p.m. Med Grill - Battle of the Bands 9 p.m. Last Call - Karaoke Hal & Mal’s - Howard Jones Jazz Trio 6-8 p.m. Underground 119 - Baby Jan & All That Chaz Fenian’s - Seth Libbey Contact info at jfp.ms/musicvenues.

Hank Williams Jr. – Landers Center, Southaven New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival – New Orleans Fairgrounds, N.O. REO Speedwagon – Billy Bob’s Texas, Fort Worth Megadeth – Hard Rock Live, Biloxi

jfpevents

Fondren After 5 May 3, 5 p.m. This monthly event showcases the local shops, galleries and restaurants of the Fondren neighborhood. Free; call 601-981-9606. “For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide…When the Rainbow is Enuf” May 3-5, at Warehouse Theatre (1000 Monroe St.). New Stage Theatre’s play is a series of narratives with dance, music and poetry about the struggles of black women. Shows are at 7:30 p.m. through May 5. $7 (cash or check); call 601-948-3533, ext. 222. Jammin’ for Joints May 5, 7 p.m., at Duling Hall (622 Duling Ave.). The Mississippi Sports Medicine and Orthopaedic Center hosts the gala in the auditorium, and the theme is “Studio 54.” Liquid Pleasure performs. Proceeds benefit the Arthritis Foundation. $65 in advance, $75 at the door, $120 couples; call 601-853-7556. Jackson 2000 Dialogue Circles Program May 5June 9. The program includes six two-hour sessions of dialogue and problem-solving to encourage racial harmony and community involvement. Free; email bevelyn_branch@att.net. Eighth Annual JFP Chick Ball July 28, 6 p.m., at Hal & Mal’s (200 S. Commerce St.). The fundraising event benefits the Center for Violence Prevention, and this year’s goal is to start a rape crisis center. For ages 18 and up. Seeking sponsors, auction donations and volunteers now. More details: jfpchickball.com and follow on Twitter @jfpchickball. Get involved, volunteer, donate art, money and gifts at chickball@jacksonfreepress.com. Admission TBA; call 601-362-6121, ext. 16.

Community Events at Pearl Public Library (2416 Old Brandon Road, Pearl). Free; call 601-932-2562. • Computer Class For Adults April 26, 10 a.m. Learn to use Microsoft Word. • Game On! April 26, 4 p.m. Attendees play Xbox 360 games. No mature games permitted. • Brown Bag Luncheon April 27, noon. Representatives from the Mississippi Museum of Art talk about the Curious George exhibit. Bring lunch; drinks and dessert provided. Small Business Summit April 25-26, 10 a.m.- 6 p.m., at Northpark Mall (1200 E. County Line Road, Ridgeland). Join Mississippi business professionals for networking, exhibits, seminars and resources. $250-$300 exhibitor booths (free for nonprofits); call 601-956-3438. “History Is Lunch” April 25, noon, at Old Capitol Museum (100 S. State St.). Agricultural economist Jimmye Hillman talks about his new memoir, “Hogs, Mules, and Yellow Dogs: Growing Up on a Mississippi Subsistence Farm.” Bring lunch; coffee and water provided. Free; call 601-576-6998. Central Mississippi Ole Miss Alumni Club Scholarship Luncheon April 26, 11 a.m., at Capital Club (125 S. Congress St., Suite 19). The club gives scholarships to high school students. Jesse Mitchell, former Ole Miss and Baltimore Ravens defensive lineman, is the speaker. RSVP recommended. $15; call 601-826-6886 or 601-506-3186. Garden Partners Membership Tea April 26, 4 p.m., at Mississippi Museum of Art (380 S. Lamar St.). Learn how to become a member of the auxiliary. Call 601-960-1515. Business Plan Seminar April 26, 5 p.m., at Eagle Ridge Conference Center (1500 Raymond Lake Road, Raymond). Jim Harper of Hinds Commu-

Empowering and Strengthening Kids

peration Shoestring provides a safe place for children and parents in its west Jackson neighborhood, empowering them and strengthening the bonds of family and community. Among the services the organization provides are: • After-school and summer programs. • Dropout prevention services. • Family and parenting classes. • Art, music and dance programs. • Athletic summer camps.

Come out Thursday, April 26, to show your support for the work of Operation Shoestring at the “coolest garden party in Jackson” with a night of food, dancing and fun. Operation Spring Fling begins at 7:30 p.m. in the Art Garden at the Mississippi Museum of Art (380 S. Lamar St., 601-9601515), with entertainment by The Vamps. Free admission. Come early and catch Eric Stracener and the Frustrations at the High Note Jam Concert at 5:30 p.m. For more information, visit operationshoestring.org. —Ronni Mott

nity College is the speaker. Topics include industry research, creating a marketing strategy and determining startup costs. Visit mssbdc.org. Precinct 4 COPS Meeting April 26, 5:30 p.m., at Redeemer Church (640 E. Northside Drive). These monthly forums are designed to help resolve community issues or problems, from crime to potholes. Call 601-960-0004. National Alliance on Mental Illness State Conference April 27-28, at Hilton Jackson (1001 E. County Line Road). The event includes discussions and exhibitor tables. Sponsorships available. $55, $45 members, $20 consumers; call 601-899-9058. Resume Writing and Interviewing Skills Class April 27, 8:30 a.m., at Holmes Community College (412 W. Ridgeland Ave., Ridgeland). Learn about do’s and don’ts, etiquette and proper attire. $50; call 601-605-3314 or 601-605-3370. World Tapir Day April 27, 9 a.m., at Jackson Zoo (2918 W. Capitol St.). Learn more about tapirs and how to protect the endangered species. Meet the zoo’s tapirs, Symphony and LaRue. $9, $8.20 seniors, $6 children ages 2-12, members and babies free; call 601-352-2580. Community Bike Ride April 27, 6 p.m., at Rainbow Whole Foods Co-operative Grocery (2807 Old Canton Road). Jackson Bike Advocates is the sponsor. Find Jackson Bike Advocates on Facebook. more EVENTS, page 34

THIS WEEK WEDNESDAY 4/25 New Bourbon Street Jazz Band (Rest)

THURSDAY 4/26 Fingers Taylor & Mark Whittington (Rest) Sister Sparrow & The Dirty Birds (Red)

FRIDAY 4/27

Now offering a full dinner menu. Now accepting reservations.

Wednesday,April 25th

CHRIS GILL & D’MAR (Blues) 8-11, No Cover

Thursday, April 26th

PRYOR & THE TOMBSTONES (Americana) 8-11, No Cover also

LOCAL GIRLS ART EXHIBIT

That Scoundrel (Red) Swamp Babies & Spacewolf (Red)

NUNNERY’S AT GALLERY 119 • 5 - 7PM

SATURDAY 4/28

Friday, April 27th

Restaurant open as usual

SCOTT ALBERT JOHNSON

Blues Monday (Rest)

(Blues) 9-1, $5 Cover before 8:30 $10 Cover after 8:30

TUESDAY 5/1

Saturday, April 28th

MONDAY 4/30

PUB QUIZ w/ Erin & friends (Rest)

Coming Soon WED 5.2: Howard Jones Jazz (6-8) (Rest) THU 5.3: Jason Turner(Rest)

JAREKUS SINGLETON

FRI 5.4: Southern Crossroads Music and Tamale Festival (Red) Swing de Paris (Rest)

(Blues) 9-1, $5 Cover before 8:30 $10 Cover after 8:30

Monday - Friday

Tuesday, May 1st

Blue Plate Lunch with corn bread and tea or coffee

As well as the usual favorites! Seafood Gumbo, Red Beans and Rice, Burgers, Fried Pickles, Onion Rings and Homemade Soups made daily.

Fridays: Catfish Plates are $9.75

$4.00 Happy Hour Well Drinks! visit HalandMals.com for a full menu and concert schedule

601.948.0888

200 S. Commerce St. Downtown Jackson, Mississippi

JESSE ROBINSON

(Blues) 6-11, $5 Cover Wednesday,May 2nd

CHALMERS & BABY JAN (Jazz) 8-11, No Cover

Thursday, May 3rd

BOOKER WALKER

(Jazz) 8-11, No Cover

Friday, May 4th

SOFA KINGS

(Americana) 9-1, $5 Cover before 8:30; $10 Cover after 8:30

Saturday, May 5th

KING EDWARD

(Blues) 9-1, $5 Cover before 8:30 $10 Cover after 8:30

119 S. President Street 601.352.2322 www.Underground119.com

jacksonfreepress.com

“Lights, Camera, Imagination” Talent Search April 27, 5:30 p.m., at Mississippi Children’s Museum (2145 Highland Drive). The museum seeks children to feature in future radio and printed ads. $10 admission per person; call 601-981-5469 or 877-793-5437.

courtesy operation shoestring

JFP-Sponsored Events

A M A LC O T H E AT R E

South of Walmart in Madison

ALL STADIUM SEATING Listings for Fri. Apr. 27 - Thurs. May 03 2012 3-D Pirates: Band Of Misfits PG Pirates: Band Of Misfits (non 3-D) PG Safe

The Raven

The Five Year Engagement

Chimpanzee

The Lucky One PG13 Think Like A Man PG13 Salmon Fishing In The Yemen PG13 Cabin In The Woods

Lockout

PG13

American Reunion R 3-D Titanic

PG13

Wrath Of The Titans (non 3-D) PG13 Mirror Mirror PG The Hunger Games PG13 21 Jump Street R Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax (non 3-D) PG Journey 2 (non 3-D)

Midnight 5/3

Marvel’s The Avengers PG13

GIFT CARDS AVAILABLE DAILY BARGAINS UNTIL 6PM Online Tickets, Birthday Parties, Group & Corporate Events @ www.malco.com

Movieline: 355-9311

xxx/cvuufsgmzzphb/ofu

Nztujd!Nbousb!Nvtjd

Tfbo!Kpiotpo! boe! Xjme!Mpuvt!Cboe Nbz!5ui!}!8;41!qn

April 25 - May 1, 2012

Bewbodf!ujdlfut!%26!}!%31!bu!uif!epps

Bewbodf!ujdlfut!dbo!cf!qvsdibtfe!bu! xxx/cvuufsà!zzphb/ofu 4136!Opsui!Tubuf!Tusffu!.!Gpoesfo!Ejtusjdu!.!712/6:5/3424

jfpevents from page 33 Jackson State University Spring Commencement April 27-28. University of Pennsylvania scholar Marybeth Gasman speaks April 27, 6 p.m. at JSU’s Williams Athletics and Assembly Center (1400 John R. Lynch St.). Newark, N.J. Mayor Cory Booker speaks April 28, 8 a.m., at Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium (2531 N. State St.). Visit jsums.edu. Lynch Street Cultural Arts Festival April 27-28, at John R. Lynch Street. April 27, the banquet at the Masonic Lodge (1072 John R. Lynch St.) is at 7 p.m. April 28, the outdoor festival at noon is between Rose and Dalton streets, and includes a children’s village, a health fair and live music. $50, $500 table of 10 for banquet; free outdoor activities; call 601-352-6993. Spiritual Pilgrimage to the Mississippi Delta April 28. The caravan lines up at Jackson Medical Mall (350 W. Woodrow Wilson Ave.) at 7:30 a.m. and leaves at 8 a.m. Stops includes da’ House of Khafre in Indianola, Fannie Lou Hamer Memorial Garden in Ruleville, the Emmett Till Historic Intrepid Center in Glendora and Bryant Store in Money, where Emmitt Till was kidnapped and later murdered. Participants cover their own food, admission and transportation costs. Call 601-957-2969. Jackson Audubon Society Spring Migration Field Trip April 28, 8 a.m., at Vicksburg Military Park (Clay St., Vicksburg). See and learn about migratory birds from expert birder Bruce Reid. Carpool from McDonald’s (474 Springridge Road, Clinton) at 7:30 p.m. or meet at the park. Bring lunch. $8 park entrance fee; call 601-956-7444. Wild Walk and Run 5K April 28, 8 a.m., at Old Trace Park (Post Road, Ridgeland). Registration is at 6:30 a.m. The race along the Ridgeland Multi-use Trail benefits the Nature Conservancy’s work across Mississippi. Awards given. Youth under 18 must register on-site. $20 through April 21, $25 race day, $15 ages 17 and under; visit nature.org/wildwalk. Afro-Academic, Cultural, Technological and Scientific Olympics (ACT-SO) April 28, 8 a.m., at Chastain Middle School (4650 Manhattan Road). High school student compete to represent the Mississippi NAACP at the National ACT-SO Competition in July in Houston, Texas. $25 application fee; call 601-353-8452. 2012 Magnolia Classic Fly-in April 28, 9 a.m., at Hinkle Field, Buddy Butts Park (6180 N. McRaven St.). Enjoy flying radio-controlled airplanes, food and prizes. Lawn chairs welcome. Free for spectators; $15 RC pilots (includes meal and raffle ticket); call 601-924-7176. Gathering on the Green April 28, 10 a.m., at Old Capitol Museum (100 S. State St.). Enjoy music, food, crafts and other festivities on the historic Old Capitol Green. Free admission; call 601-576-6920. Transportation Career Expo April 28, 10 a.m., at Jackson Medical Mall (350 W. Woodrow Wilson Ave.). The City of Jackson and the National Association for Minority Truckers are the hosts. The trucking convoy take-off is at 10 a.m., the American trucker rally is at 11 a.m., and the job fair is from 1-5 p.m. Free; call 601-960-0335 or 678-759-9726. Legal Fair on Women and Children’s Issues April 28, 10 a.m., at Mission First (275 Roseneath Ave.). Topics include child custody, child support, divorce, domestic violence, guardianships and health care. Lunch, prizes and children’s activities included. Call 601-487-2625. Dog Day Afternoons April 29, noon, at Mississippi Museum of Art (380 S. Lamar St.). Bring your dog to the Art Garden for an afternoon of play. Shelter dogs available to adopt. Free; call 601-960-1515. Callaway High School Class of 1993 Reunion Planning Meeting April 29, 4 p.m., at McAlister’s Deli, Ridgeland (Odyssey North, 731 S. Pear Orchard Road, Ridgeland). Former students make plans for their 20th anniversary reunion in 2013. Call 601-720-1589 or 601-668-3248.

Ballet’s ‘Collage’

n Saturday, April 28, Ballet Mississippi presents “Collage” at the Jackson Academy Performing Arts Center (4908 Ridgewood Road, 601-362-9676). The performance is a compilation of ballet and music with works from eight composers and seven choreographers. The music for “Collage” includes classical, contemporary and Celtic selections. You’ll hear works from Mozart to Patsy Cline along with traditional Irish tunes. Choreographers range from Catherine Bishop to the company’s artistic director David Keary. Dancing the Pas de Deux from “Don Quixote” are Ballet Mississippi’s artist-in-residence Mikhail Ilyin, now in his fifth year with the American Ballet Theatre in New York City, and Maria Riccetto, also from ABT. “Collage” begins at 7:30 p.m., and tickets are $12 to $15. Ballet Mississippi’s Lower School Performance is Thursday, May 3, at 6 p.m. at Thalia Mara Hall (255 E. Pascagoula St.) .The performance features classical music specifically written for children. For more information and tickets, visit balletms.com. —Ronni Mott

File photo

6A0=3E84F

Mississippi Main Street Association Planning Charrette April 30-May 3, at Canton Multipurpose Complex (501 Soldier Colony Road, Canton). The town hall meeting to get input on improvements for Canton is April 30 at 6 p.m., and MMSA reveals design plans May 3 at noon. Open to the public. Call 601-859-5816. Story Time Tuesday May 1, 10 a.m., at Jackson Zoo (2918 W. Capitol St.). A zookeeper reads an animal story, and the kids get to do a related craft project or have an animal encounter. Free with paid admission; call 601-352-2580. Millsaps Arts and Lecture Series May 1, 7 p.m., at Millsaps College, Ford Academic Complex (1701 N. State St.). In the recital hall. Authors Alan Huffman and Reese Fuller discuss their most recent books. $10; call 601-974-1130.

Stage and Screen “Cracked” Dinner Theater. The Detectives Mystery Dinner Theatre presents the four-act interactive comedy. Enjoy cocktails at 6 p.m. RSVP; call 601-937-1752. • April 27, 7 p.m., at Roca Restaurant and Bar (127 Country Club Drive, Vicksburg). $49. • April 28, 7 p.m., at The Parker House (104 N.E. Madison Drive, Ridgeland). $48. Intersect Dance Collective: In 4D April 27, 7:30 p.m., at The Church at Northshore (498 Northshore Parkway, Brandon). The troupe

jfpevents presents an evening of dance. $10, $5 students and children; email intersectdance@gmail.com. “Animal Farm” April 27-May 6, at Actor’s Playhouse (121 Paul Truitt Lane, Pearl). Shows are Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m. $15, $10 seniors and students; call 601-664-0930. Art House Cinema Downtown April 29, 5 p.m., at Russell C. Davis Planetarium (201 E. Pascagoula St.). See the independent film“We Need to Talk About Kevin.” Popcorn and beverages sold. $7; visit msfilm.org. Being Belhaven Arts Series, at Belhaven Park (Poplar Blvd.). Enjoy music, movies and stage performances Thursday evenings through June 22. Most events start at 5 p.m. Free; call 601-352-8850.

MUSIC Live at Lunch, April 27, 11:30 a.m., at Mississippi Museum of Art (380 S. Lamar St.), in the Art Garden. Amazin’ Lazy Boi performs. Bring or buy lunch; call 601-960-1515. An Evening with Janis Ian April 26, 8 p.m., at Duling Hall (622 Duling Ave.). Cocktails at 6:30 p.m. $20 advance, $25 at door; call 800-745-3000. Mississippi Academy of Ancient Music Concert April 26, 7:30 p.m., at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Cathedral (305 E. Capitol Street). Dr. John Paul performs. $15, $5 students; call 601-594-5584. Vine-yl Night April 27, 5:30 p.m., at North Midtown Arts Center (121 Millsaps Ave.). Play, sell and swap records. Free; call 601-376-9404. We’re Playing with Puppets! April 28, 2 p.m., at Thalia Mara Hall (255 E. Pascagoula St.). The Mississippi Symphony Orchestra performs with the Madcap Puppets. $15 and up; call 601-960-1565. Festival of Barbershop Harmony April 28, 7 p.m., at Belhaven University Center for the Arts Concert Hall (835 Riverside Drive). $20, $10 after-party; call 769-218-2438 or 601-383-4264.

LITERARY AND SIGNINGS Experience Poetry in Vicksburg 2012 April 28, 10 a.m., at Warren County Library (700 Veto St., Vicksburg). The program features a poetry reading, panel discussions and an audience Q&A with poets including Angela Ball and Genaro Ky Ly Smith. Free; call 601-634-8624. “Neversink” April 28, 1 p.m., at Lemuria Books (4465 Interstate 55 N., Suite 202). Barry Wolverton signs books. $16.99 book; call 601-366-7619.

CREATIVE CLASSES Creative Writing Workshop, at Jackson State University (1400 John R. Lynch St.), in H.T. Sampson Library, third floor. The Nameless Poets of Jackson host the workshops Sundays at 3 p.m. Free; call 601-720-4640. April Artist in Residence: Marshall Ramsey through April 29, at Mississippi Children’s Museum (2145 Highland Drive). The editorial cartoonist gives drawing workshops. $8, children 12 months and under and members free; call 877-793-5437. Vegas Steakhouse April 27, 6 p.m., at Viking Cooking School (Township at Colony Park, 1107 Highland Colony Parkway, Ridgeland). Topics include pan-searing beef, roasting mushrooms and peppers, and making a gratin. $109; call 601-898-8345. Bonsai Workshop April 28, 10 a.m., at circa. Urban Artisan Living (2771 Old Canton Road). Dr. Craig Escude is the instructor. $85; call 601-362-8484. Day of Dance April 28, 10 a.m., at Mississippi Children’s Museum (2145 Highland Drive). Children learn different dance styles. $8, children under 12 months and members free; call 601-981-5469 or 877-793-5437. Dance Workshops for Beginners April 28, 11 a.m., at Salsa Mississippi Studio and Club (605 Duling Ave.). The casino rueda workshop is at 11 a.m., and the bachata workshop is at 1 p.m. $10 per workshop; call 601-213-6355.

EXHIBITS AND OPENINGS Terry Lynn Art Exhibit through April 30, at Gallery 1 (One University Place, 1100 John R. Lynch St.). Free; call 601-960-9250. Senior Art Show through May 12, at Millsaps College, Lewis Art Gallery (1701 N. State St.). Gallery talk is April 27 at 2 p.m. Free; call 601-974-1762. “Local Girls” Art Show April 26, 5 p.m., at Nunnery’s at Gallery 119 (119 S. President St.). See works from 17 artists including Grace Buchanan, Roz Roy, Cathy Hegman and Pryor Graber, who performs at the end of the show downstairs at Underground 119. Free; call 601-969-4091. Check jfpevents.com for updates and more listings. To add an event, email all details (phone number, start and end date, time, street address, cost, URL, etc.) to events@jacksonfreepress.com or fax to 601510-9019. The deadline is noon the Thursday prior to the week of publication. Or add the event online yourself; check out jfpevents.com for instructions.

BE THE CHANGE Relay for Life April 27, 6 p.m. The all-night charity walk includes food and entertainment. Proceeds benefit the American Cancer Society. Registration fees vary; call 769-237-6011 or 662-549-3729. • Northwest Rankin High School (5805 Highway 25, Flowood), at the football field. • Old Trace Park (Post Road, Ridgeland). • Millsaps College (1701 N. State St.). • Vicksburg Convention Center (1600 Mulberry St.). Run for Blood April 28, 9 a.m., at Mississippi Blood Services Main Center (115 Tree St., Flowood). Proceeds from the 5K run/walk go toward Mississippi Blood Services’ purchase of a new mobile unit. $25, $15 children; call 601-368-2666.

Dancing with the Mississippi Stars April 28, 6:30 p.m., at Country Club of Jackson (345 Saint Andrews Drive). The dance contest features local celebrities performing with dance instructors. Dinner, live and silent auctions, and music included. Proceeds benefit Community Place, a non-profit skilled nursing home. $75; call 601-355-0617, ext. 313. Fundraiser for Kristen Thomas April 29, 1 p.m., at Hal & Mal’s (200 S. Commerce St.). The event includes a silent auction, door prizes and music from Eupora, Acoustics Crossroads, XTremeZ, Larry Brewer, the Lucky Hand Blues Band and Midnight Magic. Proceeds go toward medical expenses for Kristin Thomas’ double-lung transplant. Donations welcome; call 601-497-3660 or 601-497-5447. Mississippi Blood Services Blood Drive April 30, 3 p.m., at Bibleway Church (121 E. Ford St., Ridgeland). Picture ID required. Donors receive T-shirts. Call 601-790-9781.

jacksonfreepress.com

Divas 4 Charity Diva Sale April 28, noon, at Downtown Cafe (105 E. Capitol St.). Shop for new and gently-used brand-name clothes, shoes and accessories for $25 or less. Wine and appetizers served. Proceeds benefit Flowers Transitional Shelter for Women and Children. Call 601-850-9634.

DIVERSIONS|jfp sports

by Diandra Hosey

by Bryan Flynn

Make sure the remote is working. This week holds the NFL Draft, NBA season end and playoffs start, plus MLB and NHL playoffs.

Friday, April 27 NFL Draft (6-10:30 p.m. ESPN or NFL Network): Rounds two and three of the NFL draft should provide good value for your favorite team. Saturday, April 28 NFL Draft (11 a.m.-7 p.m. ESPN or NFL Network): The NFL Draft wraps up with all-day coverage of the fourth through seventh rounds. Sunday, April 29 College baseball (1:30-4:40 p.m. CSS): Ole Miss wraps up a three-game SEC series at Mississippi State after the Rebels defeated the Bulldogs to win the Governor’s Cup last week. Monday, April 30 English Premier League Soccer (2-4 p.m. ESPN 2): Manchester City faces Manchester United in a game that could wrap up the EPL title for United with a win. Tuesday, May 1 MLB (6-9 p.m. Sports South): The Atlanta Braves host the underperforming Philadelphia Phillies in game one of a three-game series. Wednesday, May 2 MLB (6-9 p.m. SPSO): Atlanta looks to put Philadelphia further behind them while chasing the surprising NL East-leading Washington Nationals. The NBA Playoffs begin on Saturday but are not on The Slate since nothing is set in stone. Just about all the spots are locked in, but seeding could change for nearly every team before the season ends Thursday night. Follow Bryan Flynn at jfpsports.com, @jfpsports and at facebook.com/jfpsports.

ootball, football, football—Mississippi loves football. Maybe it’s our “no-nonsense, don’t mess with me; I’m southern and proud of it, gritty, get down and dirty” attitudes that make a good match for a “roughneck, take no prisoner, I will beat you down if you mess with me” game like football. Some of the game’s best-of-the-best either hail from or honed their skills in Mississippi. Among them are Brett Favre, Peyton Manning and Steve McNair. Many of those greats grew up in the most rural parts of the state, and they probably stuffed themselves with cheese grits, ham hocks and turnip greens, just like me. But Mississippi football holds a secret: junior college football. In “Mississippi JUCOs: The Toughest Football League in America” (Mississippi Sports Council, 2011, $24.95), X.M. Frascogna Jr. and his sons, X.M. III and Martin Frascogna, reveal the secret to the world. X.M. Frascogna says the book’s central topic and focus is football, of course, “but we enriched it to get into each school’s culture,” he told the Jackson Free Press. “All the schools have their own distinct story.” For example, against the pleas of Mississippi’s powers-that-be, Jones County Junior College made history when its football team became the first in the state to play an integrated football team. The Jones team accepted an invitation to travel to Pasadena, Calif., and play in the Junior Rose Bowl in December 1955. Jones won the Mississippi Junior College Football Championship that year, but Pasadena City College won at the Rose Bowl, 38-9. “There are 69 junior college football programs in 17 states of the United States. Mississippi has 14 programs … more than any other state,” the authors write in “JUCOS.” Those programs include community colleges in Coahoma, Copiah-Lincoln, Hinds, Holmes, Itawamba and Jones counties, plus East Central, East Mississippi, Pearl River, Southwest Mississippi, Mississippi Delta, Northeast Mississippi and Mississippi Gulf Coast community colleges. The elder Frascogna, 65, is a Baton Rouge, La., native who has been practicing law in Jackson since 1972. He says “JUCOS”

wouldn’t have been written without the help of the Mississippi Sports Council; his two sons, who assisted in the research and co-wrote the book; and Kamel King, an associate with his law firm, who also assisted in the research. “The Mississippi Sports Council was started in 1995 to promote athletics in the state,” Frascogna says. As MSC’s legal counsel, Virginia schreiber

Thursday, April 26 NFL Draft (7-10:30 p.m. ESPN or NFL Network): Round one of the NFL Draft is live and in prime time. It’s worth watching just to see how high Fletcher Cox goes.

Family Affair

X.M. Frascogna Jr. enlisted the aid of his sons to write books about Mississippi football.

he sat in on a meeting where council members discussed publishing a book about the rivalry between Mississippi College and Millsaps College. Frascogna recommended the council also publish a book on Mississippi’s football culture, and the council commissioned him to fulfill that need. The result was 2007’s “Gridiron Gold” ($31.95), the first book he and his two sons co-authored, about legendary Mississippi high-school coaches. “Y’all vs. Us” ($34.95)— about 15 of the greatest high-school football rivalries in the state—followed in 2008. The council published “Bull Cyclone Sullivan” ($24.95), about East Mississippi Junior College coach Robert Victor Sullivan, in 2010. While the trio’s latest book is about Mississippi’s junior college football programs, Frascogna was not a fan, initially. Visiting the schools and researching the book, however,

transformed him into one of the programs’ biggest fans. He calls the programs “cool,” and says the schools are a great bargain from an educational standpoint. The Mississippi Association of Community and Junior Colleges governs recruiting rules for its members in Mississippi. The association recently voted to reduce the number of out-of-state scholarships by half, and it banned international athletes from joining JUCO teams. Acknowledging that rules are always subject to modification, Frascogna supports the new rule and Mississippi players. “JUCOs are set-up for students in Mississippi and are funded by Mississippi, so kids in Mississippi should be given the first options,” he says. For Frascogna men, sports, the law and writing are family affairs. X.M. Jr. participated in sports at every stage of his life. He played football for St. Joseph’s High School in Jackson, was a sprinter on the Mississippi State track team and went on to coach his son’s youth football programs. His son X.M. III, 39, played football for Notre Dame, and his youngest son, Martin, 35, played football at Millsaps. Both sons are also lawyers. Judy Frascogna, X.M. Jr.’s wife of more than 40 years, was an avid tennis player. Their daughter, Nan, 37, is a pediatric emergency physician at the University of Mississippi Medical Center. She played all kinds of sports during high school, X.M. Jr. says. “Mississippi JUCOs,” a documentary based on the book, is currently in post-production and tentatively slated for release in August. Like the book, the documentary covers the culture and towns of community colleges. “It started out as a (small) project of the Mississippi Sports Council, but then got much bigger than we would’ve imagined,” Frascogna says, with three different production companies involved, one local and two out of state. The filmmakers had to narrow their focus to six of the state’s 14 programs: Itawamba, Hinds, Copiah-Lincoln, East Mississippi and Pearl River community colleges, and Jones County Junior College. At the moment, Frascogna says he doesn’t have other books or film projects in the works. “Gotta get back to practicing law,” he says. In Jackson find signed copies of the Frascognas’ books at Lemuria Books (Banner Hall, 4465 Interstate 55 N., Suite 202, 601-366-7619).

Bryan’s Rant • Hope and the Draft

April 25 - May 1, 2012

T 36

hursday night the NFL Draft begins the hopes for the 2012 NFL season. Teams drafting early are betting they will make the right choices to put them on the road to the playoffs. The teams drafting in the middle are hoping to draft the good players the early drafters left behind for a playoff run or, if possible, a Super Bowl run. Finally, teams drafting near the end of each round are looking for one final unknown player to help them become the next Super Bowl champions like the New York Giants or to stay dominant like the New England Patriots. From the first pick Thursday to the final pick Saturday, fans will watch their teams choose and

dream that these young men will lead their team to new heights. This could be a deep draft with a lot of good, talented players in each round, but we will not know how deep for about three to five years down the road as players blossom or fail. Some players will get a chance to show fans early that they will be franchise saviors like Robert Griffin III for the Washington Redskins or Andrew Luck for the Indianapolis Colts. The NFL draft is always fun to watch to see which teams will possibly help their chances on the field come September. So what should the team you love do this weekend?

If you are a Dallas Cowboy fan, look for the team to add defensive help. The secondary and linebackers need upgrades. Good offensive linemen would be helpful, and they might have a late-round chance on a tight end or wide out. For New England Patriots fans, you should hope the team does not trade away picks, instead using the picks that the team has stock piled for a pass rusher and wide receivers. The Brady era is getting close to the end, and the team needs defensive help and a wide receiver to stretch the field. Pittsburgh Steelers fans know that the team must rebuild the offensive line and that its defense is aging.

Look for the Steelers to begin work on both areas at the draft. Linebacker and secondary are also big needs on defense for Pittsburgh. Finally, if you are a New Orleans Saints fan, look for defense to be the team’s biggest need. The Saints need linebackers and cornerbacks to shore up a defense that may see multiple suspensions due to “bounty-gate.” Saints fans will also need to watch what the rest of the NFC South drafts. What will Tampa Bay, Atlanta and Carolina do this weekend? The NFL Draft is where hope begins for the 2012 season.

Grab ya beads and come on out!

Wednesday - April 25 Karaoke - No Cover Thursday - April 26 IN CONCERT - TRENT TOMLINSON (Country) Advance tickets on sale now $20 - Limited Supply of Tickets Available | Mike from Mike and Marty | The Craziest Show in Town at Happy Hour 4 - 7pm | Free Admission

Fri & Sat - April 27 & 28 Back 40 (Country/Rock) $5 cover | 9pm

Hairicane

Friday, April 27th

Naked Eskimos Saturday, April 28th

Tuesday - May 1 Doug Frank’s Invitational Jam Night Featuring Greg “Fingers’ Taylor On Harmonica And Adib Sabir On Vocals $5 cover | 1st drink free | 8pm - until

Wednesday - April 25 KARAOKE

Thursday - April 26 Ladies Night: Ladies Drink Free

Friday - April 27 & Saturday - April 28

HAPPY HOUR

Everyday | 2-for-1 | 4 - 7pm

Crossin’ Dixon’s Farewell Show

Advance tickets &15 | $20 week of show

May 5th | Outside Event

An all-day outdoor event for all ages with crawfish, ribs and beer. Bands include The Dylan Moss Project, Yankee Station, Aaron Coker with A Few Dead Roses and Social Suicide. | $15 advance | $20 at door | Gates open at 1pm

Tickets On Sale Now Call 601.987.0808

Bourbon St. in the Quarter (Formerly Poets) 1855 Lakeland Drive Jackson, MS 601.987.0808

- Wednesday - Open Mic Night - Thursday Night: Ladies Night with DJ Reign -Karaoke in The Jazz Bar (Thu - Sat) - Happy Hour in The Jazz Bar Tuesday - Friday 4-7pm 2 -4 -1 Wells, Calls, & Domestics, PLUS $5 appetizers To book a private party please call

601-487-8710

824 S. State St. Jackson, MS www.clubmagoos.com

Exit One Eleven Sunday - April 29 9 Ball Tournament 601-961-4747

www.myspace.com/popsaroundthecorner

South of 20 April 27 | 9:00pm

New Blue Plate Special

$8.99

1 Meat, 3 Veggies, Bread and Drink

live music april 25 - may 01 wed | april 25 Jessie “Guitar“ Smith 5:30-9:30p

Point

Blank April 28 | 9:00pm

thu | april 26 Chris Gill 5:30-9:30p

LADIES NIGHT & KARAOKE

THUR APRIL 26 BUD LIGHT NIGHT $2 PINTS & LONGNECKS

FRI APRIL 27 $5 SHOTS AFTER 9PM

SAT APRIL 28 $5 SHOTS AFTER 9PM

MON APRIL 30 IN-DA-BIZ 2FOR1 DRINK SPECIALS

TUE MAY 01

JACKPOT TRIVIA 7:30PM

Scan this code or text EATWITHUS to 601-707-9733 for the deal of the week

sat | april 28 Jessie “Guitar“ Smith Blues Jam 6:30-10:30p sun | april 29 Todd Thompson Blues 3:00 - 7:00p

• Live Music Every Friday & Saturday Night NO COVER CHARGE! • $3 Bloody Mary’s & Mimosas

mon | april 30 Karaoke

Every Saturday & Sunday until 6pm

tue | may 01 Jesse “Guitar” Smith 5:30-9:30p

6791 Siwell Rd. Byram, MS • 601.376.0777 www.reedpierces.com

1060 E County Line Rd. in Ridgeland Open Sun-Thurs 11am-10pm Fri-Sat 11am-Midnight | 601-899-0038

jacksonfreepress.com

WED APRIL 25

fri | april 27 Shaun, Kenny & Richard 6:30-10:30p

TAURUS (April 20-May 20)

“What people really need and demand from life is not wealth, comfort or esteem but games worth playing,” psychiatrist Thomas Szasz said. I love that thought and am excited to offer it up to you right now. You have been invited or will soon be invited to participate in some of the best games ever. These are not grueling games foisted on you by people hoping to manipulate you or pointless games that exhaust your energy for naught. Rather, they are fun challenges that promise to stretch your intelligence, deepen your perspective and enhance your emotional riches.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20)

Is it conceivable that you’ve gotten a bit off track? As I close my eyes and ask my higher powers for a psychic vision, I get an impression of you staring at a blurry image of a symbol that is no longer an accurate representation of your life goal. Now, of course, a chance exists that my vision is completely unfounded. But if it does ring at least somewhat true to you—if it suggests a question worth asking—I invite you to meditate on the possibility that you need to update your understanding of what your ultimate target looks like.

CANCER (June 21-July 22)

From an astrological point of view, it’s prime time for you to attend a networking extravaganza or collaboration spree. Likewise, this is an excellent phase in your long-term cycle to organize a gathering for the close allies who will be most important in helping you carry out your master plan during the next 12 months. Have you ever heard of the term “Temporary Autonomous Zone”? It’s a time and place where people with shared interests and common values can explore the frontiers of productive conviviality. It might be a dinner party in an inspirational setting, a boisterous ritual in a rowdy sanctuary or a private festival for fellow seekers. I hope you make sure something like that materializes.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22)

To begin one of his performances, comedian and musician Steve Martin ambled on stage and told his

audience what to expect. “Before every show,” he said, “I like to do one thing that is impossible. So now I’m going to suck this piano into my lungs.” That’s the kind of brag I hope to hear coming from you sometime soon, Leo—the more outrageous the better. Why? Because I’d love to see you cultivate a looser, breezier relationship with your actual ambitions. To make boastful jokes about wacky or farfetched goals might inspire you to be jauntier and friskier about those real ones. And that would rouse a burst of fresh motivational energy.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

The text for this week’s oracle comes from Frederick Douglass (1818-1895), a great American statesman who, after escaping slavery, became a leader of the abolitionist movement. “Those who profess to favor freedom and yet depreciate agitation are people who want crops without plowing the ground,” he said. “They want rain without thunder and lightning. ... The struggle may be a moral one, or it may be a physical one, or it may be both. But it must be a struggle. Power concedes nothing without a demand.” Please apply these thoughts to your own situation, Virgo. You have entered the liberation phase of your cycle.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

I’m about to list some declarations that I hope will come out of your mouth at least once in the next three weeks. If for any reason you’re not finding yourself in situations where these words would make sense for

you to utter, please rearrange your life accordingly. 1) “There’s nothing else I’d rather be doing right now.” 2) “Is it okay with you if we take this really slow?” 3) “No one’s ever done that before.” 4) “Squeeze my hand when it feels really amazing.” 5) “It’s like we know what each other is thinking.” 6) “Can I have some more, please?”

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

A political strategist told me one of her most important rules: To win an election, you have to help your candidate choose the right fights. I think that would be an excellent guiding principle for you in the coming weeks, Scorpio. According to my reading of the astrological omens, you will be getting invitations to spar, joust and wrangle. Although it might be exciting to leap into each and every fray with your eyes blazing, I suggest you show careful discernment. Try to confine your participation to those tangles that will downplay your weaknesses and highlight your strengths.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

In the famous children’s book “The Little Prince,” the hero lives on an asteroid with three volcanoes, two active and one dormant. One day he decides to leave home and travel to other realms. Before departing, he meticulously scours all three volcanoes. “If they are well cleaned out,” the narrator reports, “volcanoes burn slowly and steadily, without any eruptions.” I recommend that you take after the Little Prince, Sagittarius. It’s high time to attend to the upkeep of your volcanoes. Make sure they will burn slow and steady in the coming months, even when you’re not at home.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

One of the classics of ancient Sanskrit literature is the Kama Sutra, which gives practical advice about erotic love. The most popular edition of the book offers instructions on eight kinds of kisses and 64 sexual positions, with additional tips on styles of embracing and caressing. This would be an excellent time for you to get inspired by information like that, Capricorn. Your

relationship with the amorous arts is due for expansion and refinement. You don’t necessarily need to rely on book learning, of course. You could accomplish a lot of empirical exploration simply by getting naked and firing up your imagination.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

Bob Dylan’s down-to-earth album “The Basement Tapes” strongly influenced singer-songwriter Tom Waits. “I like my music with the rinds and the seeds and pulp left in,” Waits testifies. “The noise and grit” of Dylan’s rootsy, intimate songs, he says, creates a mood of “joy and abandon.” That’s the spirit I wish for you in the coming weeks, Aquarius. Wherever you are and whatever you’re doing, get down to the gritty, organic core of things. Hunker down in the funky fundamentals. Hang out where the levels of pretension are low and the stories are fresh and raw.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20)

You’re not really breaking the rules, right, Pisces? It’s more like you’re just testing their elasticity; you’re helping them become more supple and flexible. I’m sure that sooner or later people will thank you for how you’re expanding the way the game is played. It may take a while, but they will eventually appreciate and capitalize on the liberties you are now introducing into the system. In the short run, though, you might have to take some heat for your tinkering and experiments. Try not to let that inhibit your eagerness to try creative risks.

ARIES (March 21-April 19)

“True life is lived when tiny changes occur,” Leo Tolstoy said. I agree. It’s rare for us to undergo rapid, dramatic transformations in short periods of time. That’s why it’s delusional to be forever pining for some big magic intervention that will fix everything. The best way to alter our course is slowly and gradually, by conscientiously revamping our responses to the small daily details. Keep these thoughts close at hand in the coming weeks, Aries. Be a devotee of the incremental approach—step-by-step, hour-by-hour.

Homework: What famous person were you in your past life? If you don’t know or weren’t really, make something up. Testify at Freewillastrology.com.

Last Week’s Answers

BY MATT JONES after aiming in and missing? 56 Actor Jon of “Homicide” 57 Marcia and Felicity’s co-star 58 Electronic bracelet site 59 Work without ___ (take risks) 60 Hold, like a vehicle 61 Magnus Carlsen’s game 62 IDs often used in identity theft 63 Pilot’s heading: abbr. 64 “M*A*S*H” setting

43 Seals (out) 45 “Daily Manhattan media news and gossip” site 46 Ultimatum ender 47 Peace Nobelist Lech ___ 50 Fencing swords 51 Others, in Spanish 52 “Tiny Bubbles” crooner 54 Muesli ingredient

55 It’s put on a chair in a prank ©2012 Jonesin’ Crosswords (editor@ jonesincrosswords.com) For answers to this puzzle, call: 1900-226-2800, 99 cents per minute. Must be 18+. Or to bill to your credit card, call: 1-800-655-6548. Reference puzzle #562.

Down

“You Missed!” --he shoots, he doesn’t score.

April 25 - May 1, 2012

Across

1 Prescription figures 6 Frenemy, in part 9 Tenth-grader, for short 13 Sportscaster Shaquille 14 Not real, like some crab meat: abbr. 16 Shade darker than eggshell 17 “Spiffy!” 18 1958 Best Picture winner 19 Summers abroad? 20 Add atop a refuse pile, after aiming out and missing? 23 Good, in Guatemala 24 Room where church records are kept 25 “Isn’t that somethin’?” 26 Abbr. at an airport terminal 27 Cave under weight

28 Placing, at the track 30 Strikes, in Biblical terms 33 It’s inside an env. 34 Sports uniform for an all-out brawl, after aiming back and missing? 39 Cambodian currency 40 Fox News analyst, often 41 Focus for some committees 44 Hit the jackpot 45 Pai ___ (gambling game) 48 National code-breaking gp. (found in VACATION) 49 Member of a duo that “went to sea in a beautiful pea-green boat” 52 Olympic swimmer with 12 medals ___ Torres 53 What your dog might do after eating his way through your linen closet,

1 “Surprised?” follow-up 2 Like many musical wonders 3 Prepared like some ahi 4 Shirley who was painted gold in “Goldfinger” 5 Like molasses 6 Square cookie 7 Leaves out 8 This clue’s number 9 Fortune teller 10 Linoleum pattern shapes, sometimes 11 Just being there 12 In a suddenly quiet way 15 Stadium divisions 21 Egg-shaped 22 Heavyweight boxer Fields 27 Rolls-Royce’s parent company 29 Org. that operates the world’s largest particle physics lab 30 One-person opera performances 31 Ma who says “baa” 32 Happy acquaintance? 34 Responds to (in a certain way) 35 “Letters to a Young Contrarian” author Christopher 36 Freeze again, like slush to ice 37 Rapper with the 2011 hit “Work Out” 38 Reeeeeally long time 42 “Sesame Street” org., back in the day

BY MATT JONES

Last Week’s Answers

“Sum Sudoku”

Put one digit from 1-9 in each square of this Sudoku so that the following three conditions are met: 1) each row, column, and 3x3 box (as marked off by heavy lines in the grid) contains the digits 1ñ9 exactly one time; 2) no digit is repeated within any of the areas marked off by dotted lines; and 3) the sums of the numbers in each area marked off by dotted lines total the little number given in each of those areas. For example, the digits in the upper-leftmost square in the grid and the two squares directly beneath it will add up to 14. Now do what I tell you -- solve!! psychosudoku@hotmail.com

LIFE&STYLE

Domesticity, Creativity, & DIY

FOOD p 40 |BODY/SOUL p 45 | GIRL ABOUT TOWN p 46

Financial Wellness by Andrell Harris

idea how they spend their money or even how much they bring in. Set your financial goals and stick to them like your life depends on it. To begin, track your income and expenses for a month. Once you know what you actually earn and how much you spend, a

tive information, but some companies won’t remove it until years later. These days, good credit also gives you an employment advantage. Many employers evaluate your creditworthiness when making hiring decisions.

budget can help you live within your means. Keep tracking your income and expenses, and adjust your budget accordingly. Small budget adjustments can give big returns. Instead of eating out every day, for example, take your lunch to work three or four days a week. You may save $20 to $50 a week, or up to $200 a month. Pay your bills on time. You start building your credit the moment you open accounts such as cable, phone, cellular, electricity, automobile loans and credit cards. The best way to build credit is never to get behind on your monthly bills. Once you are behind, creditors will charge late fees and increase interest rates. Plus, companies report negative information in as little as 30 days. You may dispute nega-

Pay off your credit accounts. I can’t say enough about this. Credit card and store interest rates can be exorbitant. If you only make minimum payments, it could take years to pay the smallest amounts, even if you never charge another thing. You’ll end up paying much more than you actually borrowed. Here’s a plan: First, figure out how much you can afford to pay on all of your credit accounts combined. Then, beginning with the smallest amount (or the highest-interest account), put the bulk of your available funds into paying that one off first, making minimum payments on the rest. Paying off the smallest bills first will give you a psychological boost and keep you motivated. As you pay off an account, cut up the card (cancelling an ac-

file photo

hen I was in college, I met a young lady who was in debt to the tune of tens of thousands of dollars. She was only a sophomore, about 20 years old, so why did she owe so much money? Like many of us, the promise of “easy” credit lured her into buying things she couldn’t afford. She had pulled out her credit cards to fund shopping sprees and lavish vacations, and now she couldn’t make her minimum payments. She didn’t have health insurance, and an unexpected illness resulted in hospital bills that she couldn’t afford to pay. Being well doesn’t just mean having a healthy body. All kinds of stressors can affect us, including having mountains of debt. Money issues are among the top reasons couple argue and split up. And anyone who’s been hounded by debt collectors will tell you how much fun that can be. Ultimately, a debt-free life is the best financial position to be in. If you have debt, work to pay it off. If you don’t, work to save money, not just for retirement, but for those unexpected expenses that are sure to come up. When you’re 70 and retired with a decent nest egg and don’t have to work at Walmart, you’ll be happy you learned to embrace financial wellness. Few quick and easy paths to wealth actually work. You hear the pitches all the time, promising six-figure earnings in a month and continuous, unlimited earnings forevermore by working for only an hour a day. These programs may have worked for few (probably the folks selling them), but unless you win a lottery, the route to wealth is usually through hard work. Be persistent, keep learning, be willing to take considered risks and cultivate outside-of-the-box thinking. Make a budget. To reach a goal, start by knowing where you are right now. Many people fail financially because they have no

count can hurt your credit rating), and apply the money that went to paying it off to the second largest amount. Rinse and repeat. It may take a while, but the peace of mind you’ll gain and the money you’ll eventually save is well worth it. Once you’re free and clear, only charge what you can afford to buy with cash. Instead of charging items you can’t afford right now, save until you have the cash and then use your credit card as a short-term, interest-free loan. Make it your goal to pay off the card every month. This practice will help you build and maintain a decent credit rating without accumulating debt. Don’t be afraid of credit cards. They can work to your advantage if you use them appropriately. Open a savings account for emergencies and another for those high-dollar items in your future; set up automatic deposits to savings with every paycheck. You’ll be surprised at how quickly even $10 or $20 per paycheck adds up, and how little you’ll miss the cash if it never hits your checking balance. Then, when you need the extra cash, you won’t be tempted to run up a credit card. If your employer offers it, participate in an employer-matched 401k plan. Make your goal to save at least the matching amount, if not more. Talk to a financial expert to see if other types of tax-deferred savings plans such as IRAs are more appropriate for you. In addition to helping you save for retirement, for high earners, these plans have the potential to put you in a more favorable tax bracket. For those under 30, experts recommend putting at least 7 percent of your salary into a 401k plan. As you get older, increase your contributions. At 40, you should be putting as much as 10 percent to 15 percent of your salary into your 401k. That may seem like a large amount, but again, as you get accustomed to it, you will not miss the cash.

• Challenge late fees from credit cards and insufficient funds fees from banks. Especially if you’ve been a good, long-term customer, creditors and banks will usually offer this as a “customer courtesy.” (Remember those words.) Be persistent and demand more from your customer-service rep. Many times, reps will waive fees just to get you off the phone. Others have quotas for fee waivers. If one won’t waive the fee, hang up and call right back.

• Ask your cell-phone service provider to waive or lower charges for overages. Cellular providers are usually good about giving discounts if you periodically go over your minutes. Call and ask the provider to waive or lower the extra fee, using the phrase “customer courtesy.” The only industries that consistently will not waive fees are energy providers; they know you probably don’t have any competing companies to go to.

• Invest. If you are an amateur, research investments carefully with reliable sources, or seek the advice of a professional. Some investments are riskier than others, so it is important to know exactly how much you can afford to lose should the investment turn sour.

• Ask for lower interest rates on your debt annually. If you have made your payments on time, creditors of student loans, personal loans and even credit cards may lower your rates. They may only go down by a fraction, but in the end, it will save you money.

jacksonfreepress.com

Tips to Save More

DINING|food

by Casey Purvis

CASEY PURVIS

Pho Sure!

for the secret to a good pho, Pham answers simply, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Cinnamon, ginger and honey.â&#x20AC;? With all the other flavors going on in this noodle dish, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve never picked up on those ingredients. I adore the combination of crunchy sprouts, fresh herbs and slow cooked warmth. To spice it up, a squeeze bottle of sriracha sauce (hot chili sauce) sits in a prominent place on the table. Squeeze carefullyâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;this powerful sauce packs some heat. I always go a little overboard with the sriracha sauce. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s good for the sinuses,â&#x20AC;? Pham tells me with Pho, a deceptively simple Vietnamese noodle dish, is usually served with sides of fresh a grin. Amen! basil, bean sprouts, cilantro, jalapeno and lime to add to the rich broth. I am particularly fond of Saigonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pho tai, which is pho with paper-thin cuts of eye-round steak, added rare into the hot broth. The brothâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wo years ago while I was visiting Gulfport, a friend inheat cooks it instantly. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve never been instructed on how to troduced me to a Vietnamese noodle dish I fell hopeeat pho, but I use chopsticks and a spoon to eat it. I use the lessly in love with. Fresh herbs, spicy sriracha sauce, spoon to scoop up the broth and grab the steak, noodles, rice noodles and a hearty beef broth gathered together and sprouts with the chopsticks. in one bowl to form a love fest of flavors whose sole purpose So how did the Vietnamese come up with this culinary was to party down on my taste buds and take them for a trip wonder? I searched the Internet and found a blog dedion spicy magic carpet ride. Fresh limes squeezed into the cated to all things phoâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;lovingpho.com. Cuong Huynh, dish topped off the seasoning soiree satisfyingly. This comthe owner of this impressive blog, furnishes an arsenal of plex culinary wonder went by a deceptively simple name: information on pho and addresses everything from how pho. It is a combination of noodles and meats or seafood to pronounce pho (complete with audio) to the history of in a rich, hot broth. It can be made with steak, meatballs, the dish. His entry â&#x20AC;&#x153;The History of Pho: A Hundred Yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; chicken, or shrimp, or made without meat. Journeyâ&#x20AC;? explains that phoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s beginnings coincide with the I was delighted to discover Jackson has a Vietnamese French occupation of Hanoi in Northern Vietnam. restaurant serving up this ambrosia seven days a week. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve â&#x20AC;&#x153;Phoâ&#x20AC;? is believed to be a mispronunciation of the been going to Saigon Vietnamese Restaurant (2640 LakeFrench word â&#x20AC;&#x153;feu,â&#x20AC;? meaning â&#x20AC;&#x153;fi re.â&#x20AC;? The French brought a land Drive, 601-420-4848) since 2010 whenever the cravbeef-based soup called pot au feu, or â&#x20AC;&#x153;pot on fireâ&#x20AC;? to Vieting for something fresh, spicy and filling strikes me. nam. The soup uses a beef broth simmered for hours over I actually remember when the location was once home low heat as its base and is topped with root vegetables. Pho to an Arbyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. I have to marvel at the transformation. Dark possibly originated as the Vietnamese version of pot au feu. wood tables and chairs have replaced the plastic booths. I am simply happy that this dish managed to migrate Live greenery is scattered throughout the restaurant. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s west to my particular spot on the globe. I havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t attempted simply and tastefully decorated. The pho Saigon serves up takes five hours to cook, said to make this dish at home. I drive down the road to Saigon. owner Phong Pham, an Oregon native. This is a soup that The price is reasonable, and the pho is fresh. A large bowl requires time in order to fully develop the flavor. When I ask is too enormous for me to eat in one sitting. If you havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t

7KDL DQG -DSDQHVH )RRG OLNH -DFNVRQÂˇV 1HYHU ([SHULHQFHG

April 25 - May 1, 2012

12: 23(1

PHO BO 8 cups spicy beef broth 1 pound rice noodles 1 8 ounce package seitan, drained 1/4 cup bean sprouts 1/2 cup shredded cabbage (recipe recommends Napa cabbage) 1/2 cup tender greens, torn into bite-size pieces 1 cup basil leaves 1/2 cup cilantro, coarsely chopped 3 scallions, thinly sliced (both green and white parts) 3 tablespoons chopped, roasted, unsalted peanuts (optional) 1 lime, cut into wedges 3 fresh red or green chili peppers, seeded and cut into fine rounds Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Make broth as directed. Simmer for 10 minutes. Once this is done, in a large pot bring four quarts of water to boil. Remove from heat and add the noodles. Soak noodles in the water for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until noodles are tender and easily separate. Drain noodles and divide them into serving bowls. Simmer seitan in broth until heated through, or approximately 4 minutes. Remove seitan with a slotted spoon and slice thinly into six portions. Add to noodles. Place bean sprouts, cabbage, greens, basil, cilantro, scallions, and peanuts (optional) on top of the noodles and seitan. Spoon hot broth onto noodle mixture. Serve with lime wedges, chili rounds, and salt and pepper for seasoning to taste. Serves six. Calories per serving: 166 Fat: 1 gram Carbohydrates: 32 grams Protein: 8 grams Sodium: 726 milligrams Fiber: 1 gram SOURCE: CDKITCHEN.COM. USED BY PERMISSION.

tried pho, I highly recommend broadening your taste budsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; horizons. Disclosure: The owner provided the writer with a fresh dish on her visit to interview him. She did not guarantee a positive review in exchange.

Try The

(a very high-class pig stand)

+DEDFKL /XQFK 6SHFLDOV 0RQGD\ )ULGD\

7UHHWRS %OYG )ORZRRG 06 Â&#x2021; %HKLQG WKH $SSOHEHHÂˇV RQ /DNHODQG

_ ZZZ IXVLRQMDSDQHVHWKDLFXLVLQH FRP

Come Try the Best Bar-B-Que In Madison 856 Main Street â&#x20AC;˘ Madison, MS â&#x20AC;˘ 601.853.8538

$10 Daily Lunch Specials

%*/&+BDLTPO

Happy Hour Everyday 4p-7p

Paid listyour yourrestaurant.r restaurant.r Paid advertising advertising section. section. Call Call 601-362-6121 601-362-6121 x11 x1 totolist

Late Night Happy Hour Sun - Thur, 10p - 12a

coffee houses

south of the border

Babalu (622 Duling Ave., 601-366-5757) Fresh guacamole at the table, fish tacos, empanada, smoked pork sholders, Mexican street cornâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Jacksonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x153;Best Mexicanâ&#x20AC;? specialties mix extremely well with their â&#x20AC;&#x153;Best of Jackson 2012â&#x20AC;? magaritas. Jacoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tacos (318 South State Street) Tacos, burritos and quesadillas. Tex-Mex at its finest and freshest. Tacos come with a side of butter-based mantequilla sauce for dipping. Enjoy the the patio and full bar service.

bars, pubs & burgers

Bourbon Street in the Quarter (1855 Lakeland Drive, 601-987-0808) Jacksonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hot new spot for great New Orleans cuisine, live entertainment and libations from the bar featuring daily lunch specials and happy hour in the landmark Poetâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s location. Reed Pierceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s (6791 Siwell Rd., Byram, 601-376-0777) Eat, Drink, Play! Burgers, Po-Boys, pub fare and dinner specialties including ribeye, filet, fried shrimp and more. 9-Ball lounge features tourney tables, full bar, live entertainment. Hal and Malâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s (200 S. Commerce St. 601-948-0888) Pub favorites meet Gulf Coast and Cajun specialties like red beans and rice, the Oyster Platter or each dayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s blackboard special. Best of Jackson winner for Live Music Venue for multiple years running. Burgers and Blues (1060 E. County Line Road, Ridgeland 601-899-0038) Best Burger of 2012! Check out their signature approach to burgers, chicken, wraps, seasoned fries and so much more. Plus live music and entertainment! Cherokee Inn (960 Briarfield Rd. 601-362-6388) Jacksonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x153;Best Hole in the Wall,â&#x20AC;? has a great jukebox, great bar and a great burger. Plate lunches, cheesy fries and tons more, including a full bar and friendly favorites. Cool Alâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s (4654 McWillie, 601-713-3020) A Best of Jackson fixture, Cool Alâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s signature stacked, messy, decadent, creative burgers defy adjectives. And donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget the fries! Fenianâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pub (901 E. Fortification St. 601-948-0055) Classic Irish pub featuring a menu of traditional food, pub sandwiches and beers such as Guinness and Harp on tap. Multiple Best of Jackson awards. Last Call (3716 I-55 N. Frontage Road 601-713-2700) Burgers, sandwiches and po-boys, plus sports-bar appetizers and specialities. Pay-per-view sporting events, live bands. Martinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Restaurant and Lounge (214 South State Street 601-354-9712) Lunch specials, pub appetizers (jalapeno poppers, cheezsticks, fried pickles) or order from the full menu of po-boys and entrees. Full bar, massive beer selection and live music most nights. Time Out Sports CafĂŠ (6720 Old Canton Road 601-978-1839) 14 TVs, 1 projector and two big-screens. Daily $9 lunch specials, pub-style appetizers, burgers, seafood and catfish po-boys, salads, and hot entrees including fish, steak and pasta. Ole Tavern on George Street (416 George St. 601-960-2700) Pub food with a southern flair: beer-battered onion rings, chicken & sausage gumbo, salads, sandwiches and weekly lunch specials. Plus, happy hour 4-7pm Monday through Friday. Sportsmanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lodge (1120 E Northside Dr. in Maywood Mart 601-366-5441) Voted Best Sports Bar in 2010, Sportmanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t disappoint with plenty of gut-pleasing sandwiches, fried seafood baskets, sandwiches and specialty appetizers. Underground 119 (119 South President St. 601-352-2322) Jumbo lump crabcakes, crab quesadillas, beef tenderloin parfaits, orange-garlic shrimp, even â&#x20AC;&#x153;lollipopâ&#x20AC;? lamb chops. Add a full bar and mix in great music. Opens 4 p.m.-until, Wed-Sat. Wing Stop (952 North State Street, 601-969-6400) Saucing and tossing in a choice of nine flavors, Wing Stop wings are made with care and served up piping hot. Every order is made fresh to order; check out the fresh cut seasoned fries!

asIaN

Pan Asia (720 Harbor Pines Dr, Ridgeland 601-956-2958) Beautiful ambiance in this popular Ridgeland eatery accompanies signature asian fusion dishes and build-your-own stir-frys using fresh ingredients and great sauces. Fusion Japanese and Thai Cuisine (1002 Treetop Blvd, Flowood 601-664-7588) Specializing in fresh Japanese and Thai cuisine, Fusion has an extensive menu featuring everything from curries to fresh sushi.

Daily Lunch Specials â&#x20AC;˘April 23 - 27

April 28

Includes: Dessert, Iced Tea, & tax. Take Out Orders are welcomed.

Delta Mountain Boys 9:00pm | $5.00 Cover

2nd Annual CrawďŹ sh Boil Sunday, May 6th â&#x20AC;˘ 1pm - 8pm 601-362-6388

1410 Old Square Road â&#x20AC;˘ Jackson

Mon | Smothered Beef or Roasemary Chicken Tue | Philly Cheese Steak or PanĂŠed Tilapia & Shrimp w/ Angel Hair Pasta Wed | Almond Encrusted Chicken or Molasses Baked Ham Thu | Chicken & Bowtie Pasta or Corned Beef & Cabbage Fri | Fried Swai or Pork Shoulder Steak

601.978.1839

6270 Old Canton Rd. Jackson, MS 39211

editerranean 'JTI (SJMM

QSFTFOUT

%DDIE #OTTON

'SJEBZ 4BUVSEBZ Â&#x2026; QN 4VOEBZ Â&#x2026; QN

Now accepting the JSU Supercard.

)FBMUIZ WFHFUBSJBO EJTIFT WBSJFUJFT PG GJTI TISJNQ BOE TDBMMPQT

/FFERING #ATFISH

0ANTROUT 'YROS &ISH 3PECIAL SIDES -ONDAY &RIDAY UNTIL 0ME $BOUPO 3PBE 3JEHFMBOE .4 NFEGJTIHSJMM DPN Â&#x2026;

In Town & in the USA -Best of Jackson 2003-2011-

-Food & Wine Magazine-

707 N Congress St., Jackson | 601-353-1180 Mon thru Fri: 11am-2pm â&#x20AC;˘ Sun: 11am - 3pm

Burritos * Tacos * Tex Mex

NOW WITH A FULL BAR Happy Hour 4-6 $1 Beer Specials All of April 2 for 1 Margaritas on Wednesday 318 South State Street | Jackson, MS | www.jacostacos.com

jacksonfreepress.com

Cups Espresso CafĂŠ (Multiple Locations, www.cupsespressocafe.com) Jacksonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s local group of coffeehouses offer high-end Arabica beans, a wide variety of espresso drinks. Wi-fi.

<RX FDQ KDYH \RXU IDYRULWH HYHU\ GD\ .%7 !,, 3)8 ,5.#( &%!452%3 ./7 !6!),!",% $!),9

-ONDAY Â 3ATURDAY

Â&#x2026; 4XFFU #BTJM #FFG Â&#x2026; %SVOLFO /PPEMFT Â&#x2026; 5IBJ $BTIFX $IJDLFO Â&#x2026; #FJKJOH /PPEMFT Â&#x2026; 4ISJNQ 4DBMMPQ %FMJHIU Â&#x2026; 1BE 5IBJ $IJDLFO ONLY EACH INCLUDING TAX AND TEA 8*/& %08/ 8&%/&4%": Â¯ )BMG 1SJDF #PUUMFT PG 8JOF FWFSZ 8FEOFTEBZ /JHIU ."35*/* 5)634%": Â¯ )BMG 1SJDF 4JHOBUVSF .BSUJOJT FWFSZ 5IVSTEBZ /JHIU 364) )063 Â¯ .POEBZ Â¯ 'SJEBZ GSPN Â¯ Q N XJUI B TQFDJBM NFOV GSPN PVS (POH #BS GFBUVSJOH )BMG 1SJDF 4VTIJ "QQFUJ[FST 4BLF .BSUJOJT BOE .PSF

)RNS] MX EPP MR SYV PSYRKI KSRK FEV SV SR XLI TEXMS

%HVW $VLDQ 5HVWDXUDQW %HVW RI -DFNVRQ Â² 0RQGD\ 6DWXUGD\ SP Â&#x2021; 6XQGD\ SP +DUERXU 3W &URVVLQJ Â&#x2021; 5LGJHODQG 06 Â&#x2021; ZZZ SDQ DVLD FRP Â&#x2021;

ST 0LACE

7INGS IN *ACKSON

T Q^cc[Tb

www.thepizzashackjackson.com

(HG=:R /N>L=:R ;HG>E>LL PBG@ GB@AM

Best Pizza 2009-2012

Our Customers Are the Best!

Thanks For Voting Us:

The Best Pizza in Jackson

( 1TTab >] CP_ Pc bT[TRc [^RPcX^]b

-Best of Jackson 2012-

April 25 - May 1, 2012

K =>K RHN +K> *KE:MM>KL ?HK +:KMR + > MA> @:F

NEW BELHAVEN LOCATION: 925 East Fortification

+AHG> A>:= % % $ $ #

% (!# !#!"

"(' 7XVWfPh $ = 7P\_bcTPS 1[eS AXSVT[P]S 2[X]c^]

% (%( % % % (%( %# #" 4[[Xb 0eT ($! = BcPcT Bc 9PRZb^] 9PRZb^]

:M>KBG@ O:BE:;E>

7^dab

P\ !_\ & 3Phb P FTTZ

(in the former FabraCare Building, between Katâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s & Fenianâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) Mon - Thur: 11am-10pm | Fri - Sat: 11am-11pm | Sun: 11am - 9pm 601-352-2001 | thepizzashackjackson.com 2nd Location Now Open Mon - Thur: 11am-9pm |Fri - Sat:11am-10pm | Sun:11am - 7pm 5046 Parkway Drive Colonial Mart Jackson, MS 39211 Off of Old Canton Road | 601-957-1975

5A44 FX 5X

Paid advertising section.

%*/&+BDLTPO

AMERICAN/southERN CuIsINE

Another Broken Egg (1000 Highland Colony #1009 in Renaissance, 601.790.9170) Open Daily 7am-2pm for breakfast, brunch and lunch. Egg, benedict and omelet dishes, pancakes, waffles, specialties, burgers, salads and sandwiches. Mimosas, coffees and more! Two Sisters Kitchen (707 N. Congress St. 601-353-1180) Frequent Best of Jackson winner for fried chicken offers a buffet of your choice of veggies, a salad bar, iced tea & one of four homemade desserts. Lunch only. Mon-Friday, Sun. Koinonia (136 Adams St. 601-960-3008) You won’t want to mix the large yellow house just off Metro Parkway. Koinonia’s expanded lunch menu includes pizza, sandwiches and soups. They also a serve a full breakfast menu and you can still get their famous coffee all night long.

bAkERy

Broad Street Bakery (4465 Interstate 55 N. 601-362-2900) Hot breakfast,coffee espresso drinks, fresh breads and pastries, gourmet deli sandwiches, quiches, soups, pizzas and dessert. For Heaven’s Cakes (4950 Old Canton Road 601-991-2253) Cakes and cupcakes for all occasions including weddings, parties, catered events. Beagle Bagel (4500 I-55 North, Suite 145, Highland Village 769-251-1892) Fresh bagels in tons of different styles with a variety of toppings including cream cheese, lox, eggs, cheese, meats and or as full sandwiches for lunch. Paninis, wraps and much more!

Now Offering

LIVE MUSIC

Friday and Saturday Nights

Best of Jackson 2008 - 2011 Dinner: Tues. -Sat. | 5pm-9pm

601-919-2829 5417 Lakeland Drive ~ Flowood, MS 39232

Voted Best Veggie Burger -Best of Jackson 2010-2012-

4654 McWillie Dr., Jackson|Hours: Mon.-Thurs. 10AM-9PM Friday & Saturday 10AM-10PM, Sunday CLOSED

VEGEtARIAN

High Noon Café (2807 Old Canton Road in Rainbow Plaza 601-366-1513) Fresh, gourmet, tasty and healthy defines the lunch options at Jackson’s own strict vegetarian (and very-vegan-friendly) restaurant adjacent to Rainbow Whole Foods.

bARbEquE

Hickory Pit Barbeque (1491 Canton Mart Rd. 601-956-7079) The “Best Butts in Town” features BBQ chicken, beef and pork sandwiches along with burgers and po’boys. Haute Pig (1856 Main Street, 601-853-8538) A “very high class pig stand,” Haute Pig offers Madison diners BBQ plates, sandwiches, poboys, salads, and their famous Hershey bar pie.

Drop In For Our

Early Bird Special M-Th from 5-7

2481 Lakeland Dr Flowood, MS 39232

601-932-4070 tel 601-933-1077 fax

PIzzA

The Pizza Shack (925 E. Fortification 601-352-2001) The 2009-2012 winner of Best Pizza offers the perfect pizza-and-a-beer joint. Creative pizza options abound along with sandwiches, wings, salads and even BBQ. All new location in Belhaven and a second spot in Colonial Mart mall. Sal & Mookie’s (565 Taylor St. 601-368-1919) Pizzas of all kinds plus pasta, eggplant parmesan and the fried ravioli. Best Kid’s Menu & Best Ice Cream in the 2011 Best of Jackson. Plus, Pi(e) Lounge in front offers great drinks and a fun atmosphere for catching up with friends.

ItAlIAN

BRAVO! (4500 Interstate 55 N., Jackson, 601-982-8111) Wood-fired pizzas, vegetarian fare, plus creative pastas, beef, and seafood specials. Awardwinning wine list, Jackson’s see-and-be-seen casual/upscale dining. Frequent Best of Jackson finalist. Cerami’s (5417 Lakeland Drive, Flowood, 601-919-28298) Southern-style Italian cuisine features their signature Shrimp Cerami (white wine sauce, capers artichokes) along with veal, tilapia, crawfish, chicken and pasta dishes. Now with liquor license!

stEAk, sEAfood & fINE dINING

MEdItERRANEAN/GREEk/INdIAN

Mediterranean Fish & Grill (The Med- 6550 Old Canton Rd./601-956-0082) Serving a fabulous selection of fish, gyros, and heart-healthy vegetarian food for over 10 years. Now serving fried catfish & bone-in pan trout. Aladdin Mediterranean Grill (730 Lakeland Drive 601-366-6033) Delicious authentic dishes including lamb dishes, hummus, falafel, kababs, shwarma and much more. Consistent award winner, great for takeout or for long evenings with friends.

jacksonfreepress.com

Crawdad Hole (1150 Lakeland Drive., 601-982-9299) Serving up fresh seasonal crawfish, shrimp and crab legs the Crawdad is Jackson’s crawfish destination. You’ll also want to try their delicious gumbo while enjoying Friday night karaoke! Eslava’s Grille (2481 Lakeland Drive, 601-932-4070) Danny Eslava’s namesake feature Latin-influenced dishes like ceviche in addition to pastas, steaks, salads and other signature seafood dishes. Rocky’s (1046 Warrington Road, Vicksburg 601-634-0100) Enjoy choice steaks, fresh seafood, great salads, hearty sandwiches and much more in the “polished casual” dining room. Open 24/7 in the Riverwalk Casino.

WHOLE CARE FOR YOUR PET,

naturally.

MEDITERRANEAN GRILL LSO 7E A R CATE

$INE IN OR 4AKE /UT 6XQ 7KXUV DP SP )UL DQG 6DW DP SP

6ISIT ALADDININJACKSON COM

7% $%,)6%2

)RQGUHQ %HOKDYHQ 80& DUHD

,AKELAND $R *ACKSON -3 7HO RU )D[

6ISIT OUR 'R OCE 3TORE N RY EXT DOOR

2IDGE 7AY 3TE % &LOWOOD -3 7HO )D[

â&#x20AC;?It Is Writtenâ&#x20AC;? presents exciting and instructional plays and skits, as well as a very helpful vacation Bible school guide. The lessons included in this volume teach Scriptures to both young children and adults, as they portray the biblical characters in skits and plays. Performing popular Bible stories can bring the true meaning of the words to life and provides the performers with a unique learning experience. The vacation Bible school activities included in this volume will teach students how to understand Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Word so that they can discover His truths for themselves. The excitement, history, adventure, and spiritual truths of the Bible are presented in an easy-to-follow format.

Available for purchase at Books & Beignets Bookstore in Northpark Mall and Christian Books and More in Vicksburg. Also available to order online at www.trafford.com or call 1-888-232-4444.

BWP_T D_ 5^a Bd\\Ta =^ 4]a^[[\T]c 5TT 5aTT CP]]X]V BTT 2[dQb U^a 3TcPX[b

Check out our selection of pure products for cats and dogs! U Pet food in bulk bins

UĂ&#x160;Dietary supplements

U Homeopathic medicine

UĂ&#x160;Fortified treats 901 Lakeland Place, Suite #10 | Flowood, MS in front of Walmart ďŹ&#x201A;owood@anytimeďŹ tness.com | www.anytimeďŹ tness.com

Phone: 601-992-3488

2155 Highway 18, Suite E | Brandon, MS across from Home Depot April 25 - May 1, 2012

brandon@anytimeďŹ tness.com | www.anytimeďŹ tness.com

Phone: 601-706-4605

4924 I-55 North, Suite #107 | Jackson, MS in front of Kroger jacksonms@anytimeďŹ tness.com | www.anytimeďŹ tness.com

Phone: 601-321-9465

Voted One of the Best Places to Work Out Best of Jackson 2010-2012

LIFE&STYLE|body/soul

Our Over-Medicated Nation by Dr. Timony Quinn and Jasmin Searcy

n her first visit with me a few weeks ago, Mrs. Johnson, a 32-year-old schoolteacher, announced that she had a condition that “sounds like fibro-something.” “I am certain that I have it, because I saw the commercial,” she said, self-diagnosing her fatigue, decreased sleep, pain in multiple joints and morning stiffness based on a 30-second ad. I told her she was most likely referring to fibromyalgia. Johnson told me that she needed the medication on the commercial. She said it started with an L, but she could not remember the exact name. “Could it be Lyrica?” I asked? Excitedly, she stated firmly that it was the medication she needed and asked me for a prescription for it. Many patients come to my office with pages of print-outs from the Internet, results from their searches of medical conditions and symptoms. At times, patients don’t want to “waste” their time providing detailed histories or doing tests, they just want the medications suggested by the pharmaceutical companies that sponsor many of their Internet sources and buy advertising time on TV. Dr. Ray D. Strand wrote in “Death by Prescription: The Shocking Truth Behind an Overmedicated Nation” (Thomas Nelson, 2006, $11.99), that there is about a 70-percent chance that a physician will prescribe a patientrequested medication if that patient recites the specific symptoms in the drug’s commercial. During the 1990s, direct-to-consumer pharmaceutical drug advertising increased at a compounded-annually rate of 30 percent, according to Ian Morrison’s book, “Health Care in the New Millennium: Vision, Values, and Leadership” (Jossey-Bass, 2002, $44). By 1995, drug companies had tripled the amount of money they formerly allotted to consumer-directed advertising, writes Gary Null in “Death by Medicine” (Axios Press, 2011, $12). Pharmaceutical advertising has grown to the level of pop culture. Drug advertising campaigns are executed by ad agency people highly trained in the art of persuasion. A commercial features a patient with social anxiety, for example, sadly looking through a window at a group having a party. Everyone inside looks happy, while the patient outside looks miserable. Of course, once the patient has taken the advertised medication, she is able to knock on the door, go in and be part of the festivities. The commercial then lists the side effects of the medication in a fastspeaking and nearly inaudible voice-over, while distracting

the viewer by showing the formerly miserable patient having the time of her life. The message is clear: “Take our pill, and you’ll be well and happy.” Ad agencies know it’s effective to play on our legitimate fears of illness and mortality. For hypochondriacs, those fears are already heightened. Constant fear that minor bodily symptoms may indicate serious illness,

endless self-examination and self-diagnosis, and a preoccupation with his or her body characterize a hypochondriac, though a true clinical diagnosis includes other requirements. Most of us have some symptoms of this disorder, and pharmaceutical companies take advantage of this. Physicians, however, can help. My training gave me the skills to determine what important tests my patients should have to find or rule out medical conditions for many of their symptoms. This can include tests for certain forms of cancer, diabetes, heart disease and other serious ailments. In many cases, I must be prepared to refer a patient to a specialist for more detailed testing. Sometimes, I need to refer a patient to a psychologist for a diagnosis and proper treatment of true hypochondria, instead of simply prescribing what could be unnecessary and potentially dangerous medications without a proper work up—just because a patient asks for it. ‘Mostly All in the Mind’ Health-care marketing campaigns are designed to increase negative thoughts and anxiety about having certain physical or mental illnesses, but the truth of the matter is that we all, in some way, have a tendency to catastrophize from time to time, thinking the worst will happen. The majority of people, though, trust an expert’s opinion when told it isn’t true. For some individuals, a headache or runny nose is a sure

sign of bad news, even signaling imminent death, and no positive diagnostic test can assure them otherwise. Their fears and worries cloud reality and interfere with their daily lives. Technically, a hypochondriac, or a person who suffers from hypochondriasis disorder, is an individual who believes his or her physical symptoms are signs of a serious illness even when there is no medical evidence to support the presence of an illness, according to the “Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders.” It is classified as a somatoform disorder, or one that includes the experience of physical symptoms. The disorder has a lifetime prevalence of 1 percent to 5 percent in the United States and occurs equally in males and females. It’s important to note that individuals with this disorder do not intentionally make up or fake their symptoms; they’re not malingerers. They can’t control their physical symptoms. The mind-and-body connection is powerful. We can convince ourselves that we’re physically ill, and our bodies will react appropriately, providing the symptoms that confirm our mental machinations. The way people with hypochondria think about their physical symptoms make them more likely to have this condition. As they focus on and worry about physical sensations, the cycle begins and eventually may turn into extreme anxiety. Most individuals diagnosed with hypochondriasis struggle with anxiety, depression or both. When an individual is constantly anxious about having an illness and his or her anxiety levels go up, stress levels also constantly increase. When anxiety and stress intermingle, it can produce physical symptoms such as headaches and stomach problems, causing mild to severe pain. And the cycle continues. Most of us have worried at some point or another that a small physical symptom, such as a cough, could be a sign of a serious illness or disease. This is not hypochondriasis. However, if a preoccupying fear of doom or having a disease or illness lasts for longer than six months, the individual may be suffering from hypochondriasis disorder, according to the American Psychiatric Association. If you think you or a family member may be experiencing symptoms of hypochondriasis, consult with your family physician or a mental-health professional. As with all psychiatric disorders, hypochondriasis disorder demands creative, in-depth treatment planning by a team that includes primary-care physicians and mentalhealth professionals.

ES - O - TER - I - CA: Featuring: Natural Crystals Specimens • Pendulums Books • Wands • Moldavite Jewelry & More National Natural Landmark

601-879-8189 124 Forest Park Rd., Flora, MS www.MSPetrifiedForest.com

jacksonfreepress.com

A collection of items of a special, rare, novel or unusual quality. We are Mississippi’s premiere source for metaphysical esoterica from nature.

by Julie Skipper

It’s ALWAYS FRESH in the

Michelle Obama Arms

6030 I-55 North- EXIT 102B (601) 977-9040

398 Hwy. 51 • Ridgeland, MS (601) 853-3299 • www.villagebeads.com

• Plate Lunches • Daily Lunch Specials • Salads • Home-Made Desserts • Cosmo Burger On Fridays • Take-Home Casseroles 2947 Old Canton Rd Suite G • Fondren Village Jackson, MS 39216 • 601.983.4450

Now Serving Lunch Tuesday-Friday•11:00am-2:00pm

or aiser f A fundr ritan Center od Sama The Go

April Tag Sale: Bulk Clothing NOW Available! 114 Millsaps Ave. • Jackson, MS 39202 • (601) 355-7458 Friday 9:30 - 5:30 & Saturday 10:00 - 4:00

5EB6>F :<9G 68AG8E April 25 - May 1, 2012

4 GbhV[ bY @\ff\ff\cc\

Everything To Make Momma Happy! 6hfgb`\mX lbhe @bg[Xeºf 7Tl UTf^Xg Tg ab XkgeT V[TeZX! :\Yg VXeg\Â VTgXf TiT\_TU_X! $%%# 8Tfg Abeg[f\WX 7e\iX =TV^fba @F )#$!&))!,&'&

t the first Downtown at Dusk (facebook.com/downtownatdusk) of the season April 12, a friend introduced me to Teresa Love, the owner of Pilates for Life (2628 Courthouse Circle, Flowood, 601-936-9922, pilatesforlifems.com). “It’s nice to meet you,” I said. “You have killer arms.” It was, in retrospect, one of my more awkward introductions to someone. However, it was my first impression of her, and it just slipped out. We spoke enthusiastically about class schedules and the effectiveness of Pilates Reformer classes. The results, as I immediately ob- You never know who you’ll meet in the crowd at Downtown at Dusk—old friends served, speak for themselves. I’ll admit: Biceps aside, I remained a bit or possibly your new fitness instructor. skeptical at first. I’m an avid fan of cardio, and it’s only been since January, with much encouragement and patient coaching, that out a class at Butterfly Yoga (3025 N. I’ve started weight training at all. It’s been State St., 601-594-2313) or the classes that a process that involved a lot of whimpering Tara Blumenthal (tara-yoga.net, 601-720and sad faces in the beginning, but has re- 2337) teaches at noon some days at The sulted in me feeling pretty darn confident Commons at Eudora Welty’s Birthplace about sleeveless dress season—and my new- (719 N. Congress St., 601-352-3399). My found ability to bench press. last attempt at Pilates, however, was a mat It’s pretty amazing how quickly your class that left me completely frustrated. body will accept being pushed in a new Most likely it was a failing on the part of way if you keep at it. That’s not to say that the student, not the teacher, but I simply some things aren’t still a little daunting for didn’t feel like I was working out. me. After all, I am: (1) a girl and (2) ac- I think Teresa—and her “Michelle customed to the facilities at Courthouse Obama arms”—may have persuaded me to Racquet and Fitness’ downtown location try again. Plus, the Pilates for Life location (100 E. Capitol St. and six metro loca- is near the Lakeland Courthouse, so I could tions; courthousems.com). The downtown pop right over to counteract all the testosbranch seems aimed primarily at a crowd terone from the weight room with a little of lawyers, accountants and government Pilates Reformer action. My friends seemed workers. They’re not likely to be die-hard gym folks, in my experience, or people in muscle shirts (for whom Arnold Schwarzenegger, in his heyday, remains a hero). Now, I go to the Courthouse Lakeland location some mornings. It has a massive room with the “big weights.” I was—and still remain—a bit intimidated; it’s very macho and testosterone-y, but in the name Southern Komfort Brass band entertained the crowd at of swimsuit season and this month’s Downtown at Dusk. short shorts, I’ve stuck it out. I’m pretty sure I’m one of only a hand- enthusiastic about her classes, too. After all, ful of women who have been in said room the BOOM Jackson fall fashion show is apsince 1990. proaching, and I think I’ve challenged Ed Working out among men grunting die Outlaw (co-owner of William Wallace and tossing around bars loaded down with Salon in Fondren and JFP columnist) to a more weight than two of me combined “walk-off” at the event. While the real winis one thing. Pilates, however, is another ner there will be Dress for Success Metro story. I used to do yoga to mix things up Jackson, my arms, my stilettos and I would and add some flexibility work to my ex- nonetheless like to give Mr. Outlaw and his ercise routine. I am contemplating trying abs a run for his money on the catwalk.

Creative Process

"ROWN 4AGS /FF 0INK 4AGS /FF

Creative Process

Aqua Terra Jasper Pendants

GET A REWARDS

BOOST *96

@=6

OPEN WEDNESDAY â&#x20AC;&#x201C; SUNDAY

.7J s FH?B s EK8B; .>EJP .KD s FH?B s %E;O FBKDA;JJ #RAWÂ» SH Â&#x201E; 3HRIMP Â&#x201E; #ORN Â&#x201E; 4ATERS Â&#x201E; 3AUSAGE

,AKELAND $R \ Â&#x201E; Â&#x201E;

"9/" 0LEASE .O 'LASS "OTTLES

Upgrade to a

RUSH Rewards card! â&#x20AC;¢ Royal Caribbean Cruises* â&#x20AC;¢ Las Vegas Resort Lodging Resort Lodging* â&#x20AC;¢ Free Drawing Entries Entries â&#x20AC;¢ Free Slot Play â&#x20AC;¢ Comp Dollars â&#x20AC;¢ Free Gifts*

*HW KDSS\ :DUUHQWRQ 5RDG Â&#x2021; 9LFNVEXUJ 06 Â&#x2021; ULYHUZDONYLFNVEXUJ FRP

6XEMHFW WR PLQLPXP SOD\ UHTXLUHPHQWV 7KHVH QHZ UHZDUGV DUH VR SRZHUIXO \RXÂ·OO IHHO OLNH D QHZ SHUVRQ 1RW WKDW WKHUHÂ·V DQ\WKLQJ ZURQJ ZLWK WKH ZD\ \RX DUH QRZ 0XVW EH RU ROGHU WR HQWHU FDVLQR 0DQDJHPHQW UHVHUYHV DOO ULJKWV WR DOWHU RU FDQFHO SURPRWLRQ DW DQ\ WLPH ZLWKRXW QRWLFH *DPEOLQJ SUREOHP" &DOO Â&#x2039; 5LYHUZDON &DVLQR Â&#x2021; +RWHO $OO ULJKWV UHVHUYHG

jacksonfreepress.com

H7M:7:

AUCTIONS & REALTY Proudly Presents for Online Auction

AMERISTAR CASINO HOTEL SURPLUS LIQUIDATION Hurry! Online bidding has started!

(offer expires 7/31/12)

Forget Me Nots of Brandon

Antiques & Consignment

1046 Greymont Ave. (behind La Cazuela) M-F 8am-9pm â&#x20AC;¢ Sat & Sun 7am-7pm CALL US AT 601-397-6223!

204 E Government St, Brandon, MS 601-824-9766 â&#x20AC;¢ Mon - Fri 10am - 6pm Sat 10am - 5pm â&#x20AC;¢ forgetmenotsofbrandon

featuring Kimâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Closet

We pay our clients 65% on anything we sell! Hoarding Stopper Consignment Shop 898 Centre St. Ridgeland, MS â&#x20AC;¢ 601-955-3304 www.hoardingstopper.com â&#x20AC;¢ Mon. - Sat. 10:00am - 5:00pm

Location: Sears Building (Warehouse) 1979 N. Frontage Rd., Vicksburg, MS 39180

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss this HUGE assortment of new and used restaurant equipment and supplies, vehicles, hotel furnishings, pallet racks and MUCH more!

ONLINE BIDDING ONLY! REGISTER AT

WWW.HEADAUCTIONS.COM (601) 898-5233

13% ONLINE BP / MS Lic. # 892

Security Cameras â&#x20AC;¢ Attendant On Duty Drop Off Service â&#x20AC;¢ Free Wi-Fi

Mention this ad, receive 10% off on one item

Consignment Shop

Auction Ends: May 1 @ 7 p.m. Preview: April 27 from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Commerical Roofing Immediate Openings

Commercial/industrial roofing company has immediate openings for service tech, service crews, production foreman, production assistant foreman & crewman. Must have knowledge of most types of roof systems (TPO, PVC, EPDM, modified, Bur, metal). Applicant must have a valid driverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s license & able to pass drug screen.

Over 36,000 sq ft of antiques, collectibles, jewelry, furniture, crafts, glassware, & architectural salvage.

40-plus hrs per wk/year round work. Must be able to communicate effectively with foreman, supervisor & customers.

$ISCREET 4ALK

Centimark Corp is an EOE employer with excellent benefits & compensation (based on experience.)

Please call 901-786-6880

1325 Flowood Dr. â&#x20AC;¢ www.ï¬&#x201A;eamarketms.com Sat: 9am-5pm â&#x20AC;¢ Sun: 12pm-5pm â&#x20AC;¢ $1 Admission

to start your career today.

Free Admission with this ad!

!DMINISTRATIVE !SSISTANT

Sunday Dining Coupon 15% Off Your Entire Bill Exp: 6.30.12

sushi, steak, martini and more! 601.948.8808

100 E. Capital St. Suite 105 â&#x20AC;¢ Jackson MS â&#x20AC;¢ www.wasabims.com â&#x20AC;¢ wasabijackson@gmail.com

&DGGOOH &RQVXOWLQJ )LUP FXUUHQWO\ VHHNV D 37 )7 $GPLQLVWUDWLYH $VVLVWDQW 7KH LGHDO FDQGLGDWH VKRXOG KDYH SUHYLRXV H[SHULHQFH ZLWK 4XLFNERRNV SD\UROO DQG JHQHUDO DFFRXQWLQJ 7KH FDQGLGDWH VKRXOG EH VHOI PRWLYDWHG DQG KDYH DQ XSEHDW SHUVRQDOLW\ 5HVSRQVLELOLWLHV LQFOXGH LQSXWWLQJ FOLHQW GDWD LQWR 4XLFNERRNV UHFRQFLOLQJ GDWD SUHSDULQJ VDOHV DQG WD[ UHSRUWV FRPSLOLQJ Â¿ QDQFLDO VWDWHPHQWV DV ZHOO DV SHUIRUPLQJ JHQHUDO RIÂ¿ FH ZRUN &DQGLGDWH PXVW EH GHWDLO RULHQWHG RUJDQL]DWLRQDO ZLWK H[FHOOHQW FRPSXWLQJ VNLOOV )RUZDUG \RXU UHVXPH DQG FRYHU OHWWHU WR FDGGOOHÂ¿ UP#DRO FRP IRU LPPHGLDWH FRQVLGHUDWLRQ

/RGANIC (EALTHY "EVERAGES

+HDOWK\ &RIIHH 7HD DQG +RW &KRFRODWH ZLWK *DQRGHUPD 6XSSOHPHQWV 1DWXUDO KHUE EULQJV DPD]LQJ KHDOWK UHVXOWV EROVWHUV LPPXQH V\VWHP DUWQGRULV RUJDQRJROG FRP DQG RJFRIIHHSD\V FRP

#LEAN #ITY 7ASTE #OLLECTION

$WWHQWLRQ FKXUFKHV VPDOO EXVLQHVVHV :H ZLOO SURYLGH JDO WUDVK FDQ HPSWLHG RQFH D ZHHN IRU MXVW PRQWK

(ELP 7ANTED

0DNH PRQH\ 0DLOLQJ EURFKXUHV IURP KRPH )5(( 6XSSOLHV +HOSLQJ +RPH :RUNHUV VLQFH *HQXLQH 2SSRUWXQLW\ 1R H[SHULHQFH UHTXLUHG 6WDUW ,PPHGLDWHO\ ZZZ WKHZRUNKXE QHW

#UT YOUR 345$%.4 ,/!. PAYMENTS LQ +$/) RU PRUH" *HW 5HOLHI 12: Z /2:(5 SD\PHQWV /DWH RU LQ 'HIDXOW 12 3UREOHP &DOO 12: 6WXGHQW +RWOLQH

'!). .!4)/.!, %80/352%

5HDFK RYHU PLOOLRQ \RXQJ HGXFDWHG UHDGHUV IRU RQO\ E\ DGYHUWLVLQJ LQ ZHHNO\ QHZVSDSHUV OLNH WKLV RQH &DOO -DVRQ DW 7KLV LV QRW D MRE RIIHU