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JAC K S O N VOL 18 NO. 13 // FEBRUARY 19 - MARCH 3, 2020 // SUBSCRIBE FREE FOR BREAKING NEWS AT JFPDAILY.COM

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Spring Arts Prev iew pp 14-25

‘One Lake’ A New ‘Siemens’?

Stauffer, p 4

Rivers, Creeks On The Rise Judin, p 7

Veal, pp 24-25

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contents

JACKSONIAN

February 19 - March 3, 2020 • Vol. 18 No. 13

ON THE COVER (Ariel) Ryan Crockett and (Flounder) Selena McGlorthan Photo by Melanie Thortis/Thortis Photography

4 Editor’s Note 7 Talks

B

renda Marie Johnson-Manuel, event coordinator and event manager for the Mississippi e-Center at Jackson State University, has served with the organization since Sept.

17, 2007, when she joined the center as a receptionist. She became the e-Center’s event coordinator in 2012 and then event manager in 2014.

The Mississippi e-Center promotes entrepreneurship in Mississippi through services like the research center, business support services, a learning center, a computer lounge and more. As event coordinator, Johnson-Manuel acts as the secretary for the eCenter’s executive director and is in charge of booking events at the center and maintaining the e-Center’s events calendar.

Born and raised in Jackson, Johnson-Manuel graduated from Provine High School in 1982 and enrolled at the Career Development Center in Jackson, which provides training and certifications for students and adults looking to pursue specific careers. She entered a program for intensive office training, which covers the use of office machines, software, secretarial duties, and writing and grammar skills for office work—the program later that year.

“I decided to study clerical work because growing up I always thought that being in an office behind a desk would be great,” Johnson-Manuel says. “I liked the idea of dressing up and meeting

The Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus presents its agenda for the 2020 session.

12 opinion 14 Spring Events Preview

Brenda Marie Johnson-Manuel all kinds of different people, and I remember loving to see receptionists who were cheerful and happy greeting people and being the face of a business.”

Shortly after finishing her training at the CDC, JohnsonManuel married her husband, David Manuel III. Their oldest son, David Manuel Jr., was born in 1983, and their second son, Joshua, was born in 1988. Their daughter, Catherine, was born in 1992, and the couple raised their godson Juan Hill Jr., born in 2002.

Johnson- Manuel applied to work at the Mississippi e-Center in 2007 after all but Juan had entered college. Her best friend Jacqueline McGee learned from her husband, Greg, who worked there as an engineer, that the center was looking for clerical workers.

In addition to her duties with the e-Center, Johnson-Manuel works with the youth ministry at Cynthia Church of Christ’s (Holiness) USA in Jackson, where she oversees clothing drives and school supply giveaways. “I’m a people person and love listening to people’s stories and learning about their situations,” JohnsonManuel says. “I want to be the kind of person who changes both the local scene and people’s attitudes into something positive.”

Johnson-Manuel and her husband have four grandchildren: Ashara, Omeices, Jasmine Marie and Kaci Marie.

– Dustin Cardon

16 sports

18 Lemon Vinaigrette New food writer Mckee Harris Wadlington relays a favorite salad dressing recipe for date night.

24 Music 26 music listings 28 Puzzle 28 Sorensen 29 astro 29 Classifieds

30 Staff Spotlight: Seyma Get acquainted with JFP City Reporter Seyma Bayram.

February 19 - March 3, 2020 • jfp.ms

Courtesy Brenda Marie Johnson-Manuel

9 ‘Elephant in the Room’

3

publisher’s note

by Todd Stauffer, Publisher

S

o the flood came. This wasn’t quite the one that we have dreaded—it looks like we stayed under a 38-foot crest, thanks to a slight dry spell and what looks like decent management of the Barnett Reservoir—which kept some of the worst things from happening. But this flood was a big-ish one, nonetheless, and many people and businesses in low-lying areas are definitely hurting.

Flood control on the Pearl is something that the Jackson Free Press has kept an eye on for years, as it’s been a process riddled with transparency issues and controlled by people who don’t always seem to have the public good first and foremost.

Let’s start by setting some things straight. First, the Jackson Free Press is not, editorially, against the concept of the One Lake Plan, if it can be shown to do what it’s purported to do without a massive negative impact on the environment and human health. We think lakes are pretty, too.

We are, editorially, pretty much against the way that One Lake’s ardent supporters have gone about trying to get it done.

We are concerned about three chal-

February 19 - March 3, 2020 • jfp.ms

Agitate for more transparency.

4

lenges those supporters haven’t faced down.

The first is the feasibility of the project.

From infrastructure hurdles to downstream lawsuits to the funding required, One Lake has significant challenges that haven’t been addressed satisfactorily.

The second issue is the distressing lack of transparency from the people who are supposed to be working on this effort. The last we’ve really heard from them (aside from boosterism) was in the summer of 2018 when they submitted to the public a draft environmental impact statement and proctored a “public comment” period where people weren’t allowed to ask public questions of members of the Pearl River Vision Foundation, the nonprofit entity John McGowan formed in 2011 that is currently overseeing planning of the project.

Since that time, U.S. Rep. Bennie Thompson has gone public with 54 questions for the Levee Board, where he also challenged its lack of transparency. The Mississippi Department of Transportation has released a study showing that highway and interstate bridges would likely have

Nick Judin

Mr. Mayor, Don’t Let ‘One Lake’ Be Your ‘Siemens’

Jackson Mayor Chokwe A. Lumumba spoke in favor of the One Lake project at a west Jackson meeting about flash flooding it would not mitigate. Pictured, from left, Public Works Director Bob Miller, Lumumba, Ward 4 City Councilman De’Keither Stamps and community activist Vernon Hartley.

to be replaced if One Lake moves ahead.

Legislators from Louisiana have amended federal law over the project, and MDEQ reviews of the One Lake draft study released in 2019 found serious concerns with the environmental impact and health risks of the proposed lake.

The mission statement of the Pearl River Vision Foundation states that it is “… dedicated to nonpartisan research, study and education of a flood control project within the Pearl River basin. …” But it has no website, no “public education,” no meeting minutes, no IRS 990s posted for public view.

The Rankin Hinds Pearl River Flood & Drainage Control District (“Levee Board”) has a website (rankinhindsflood district.ms.gov/) that appears to be almost completely about promoting One Lake

project and doesn’t seem to have been updated since that draft EIS process in 2018.

The third problem is the disinformation that some public supporters of the project push. The Easter Flood of 1979 is often called a 500-year event, meaning it has a one-in-500 chance of occurring in any given year. One Lake promises to address a 100-year event, not the Easter flood.

And One Lake could actually make flash floods in Jackson worse, which is some of what we’ve seen in locally in the past month—creeks backing up from torrential rains because the Pearl is too high to accommodate their flow. Be clear: The plan does not mitigate Jackson creek flooding.

Mayor Chokwe A. Lumumba waded into this discussion this week at a west Jackson creek-flooding meeting when he said he’s not going “to let a few sturgeon” get

contributors

Nick Judin

Aliyah Veal

Dustin Cardon

State reporter Nick Judin grew up in Jackson and graduated from the University of Mississippi. He is covering this year’s legislative session. Try not to run him over when you see him crossing State Street. He is covering Jackson flooding and the Legislature.

Culture writer Aliyah Veal is Jackson native with a bachelor’s degree in English from Spelman College and a master’s in Journalism from the Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism in New York. She’s a huge fan of Tupac and the MCU movies. She wrote about Jackson Indie Music Week.

Web Editor Dustin Cardon is a graduate of the University of Southern Mississippi. He enjoys reading fantasy novels and wants to write them himself one day. He wrote the Jacksonian for the issue.

in the way of progress on flood control— something he said in response to JFP reporter Nick Judin’s question about the MDOT report saying “One Lake” could cause the collapse of highway bridges.

The mayor’s comment doesn’t reflect, in my opinion, the potential threat to people (and animals and ecosystems) who live downstream of us along the Pearl or in its watershed. Those folks have clearly voiced their concerns and/or put into legislation issues ranging from environmental impact to human health concerns.

The mayor is clearly trying to express support for the people who are experiencing flooding this week. But this isn’t (just) about sturgeon, Mr. Mayor. And I sincerely encourage you not to make the One Lake project your “Siemens.” Don’t panic and sign on to this project until we have considerably more details and real transparency.

As I write this, I’m looking out the window of my office down I-55, and I see the river high out near the I-55/I-20 interchange. Driving around the weekend to document flooding, I was similarly struck by how pretty the nearly flooded Pearl is from I-20 looking north toward downtown. (I also noticed that levee walls, like those proposed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in 1996 and roundly rejected by lake proponents, were able to successfully hold the Pearl in at this height.)

I get that it would be nice for Jackson (and Rankin County) to have a lake-like body of water near downtown. And I really do get that the mayor wishes to express real human indignation and concern for the fate of flooded citizens of his town.

But my suggestion is this: Mr. Mayor, instead of trying to make “One Lake” concerns just about the sturgeon. use your role as a Levee Board member to agitate for more transparency in this process and get us answers to pressing questions. If One Lake is untenable, let’s know that sooner and move on to a better option—and we should have several on the table right now.

One could argue that some sort of “lake” proposal spearheaded by John McGowan has actually blocked progress on Pearl River flood control for nearly 24 years. Let’s use this week’s flood as a wakeup call to make sure an intelligent, workable and people-centered decision to move flood control forward in Jackson doesn’t take another quarter-century to get done.

Todd Stauffer is the publisher of the Jackson Free Press. Read more about lake proposals to date at jacksonfreepress.com/pearlriver.

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Nick Judin

torytelling & e, s i ur

news, cul t

TALK JXN ence ver rre

Miles from historic flooding along the Pearl River, west Jackson residents gathered for an update on last month’s flash floods.

Public officials provided a bevy of potential solutions—and pitched the “One Lake” plan while they were there.

West Jackson Creek Woes Become ‘One Lake’ Pitch

A

s the Pearl River swelled to historic heights on President’s Day, flooding neighborhoods in northeast Jackson and forcing residents from their homes, public officials and citizens gathered at the Pearl Street African Methodist Episcopal Church in west Jackson to debate solutions to the flash floods that plagued that community just last month.

But the public meeting quickly turned, in part, into an impromptu pitch for the “One Lake Project,” kicked off by enthusiastic speeches from three Hinds County supervisors and Jackson Mayor Chokwe A. Lumumba. The One Lake Project would create a large lake along the Pearl River, promising flood control and valuable waterfront property for development.

District 1 Supervisor Robert Graham, a member of the Rankin Hinds Pearl River Flood and Drainage Control District Board (Levee Board), introduced the project to the crowd of west Jackson residents there to discuss January’s overflowing of Lynch Street Creek, an issue Lumumba acknowledged One Lake “will not provide significant relief for.” The One Lake plan, indeed, does not build in flooding relief for Jackson’s creeks.

Still, the mayor confirmed his support for the plan. “I think there’s been a

pretty strong case for the One Lake project in the last week or so,” he said. “I would be surprised if that doesn’t move forward.”

Graham stated that One Lake could have significantly reduced the inundation still surrounding roughly 500 homes in the Jackson area. “The conventional thought is that if it were here and in place, instead of having 300 homes that were damaged and flooding, there’d only be 30,” he said.

That hard-to-prove belief is not necessarily conventional, however, for the critics of the One Lake plan, who say the metro must seriously consider several flood-control options. Andrew Whitehurst, water program director at Healthy Gulf, expressed frustration with the narrow scope of Graham’s pitch. “He’s a member of the board that produced the draft and environmental statement that provided three alternatives—lake dredging, voluntary buyouts and levee improvements,” Whitehurst said in an interview. “To leave out how many houses would’ve been saved by the levees was just a sales pitch for One Lake.”

Instead, Graham “needs to explain why he was pitching one of the alternatives, when there are three to be discussed. I’d just like to see an elected official be objective,” Whitehurst said. Graham could not be

reached for comment before press time.

District 3 Supervisor Credell Calhoun also hawked One Lake as the solution— “We’re gonna make Jackson the Mecca of the South”—and District 2 Supervisor David L. Archie made a more direct pitch.

“You need to take advantage of this opportunity,” Archie said, “because that spells money in and around your community.”

Lumumba also endorsed One Lake.

The Jackson Free Press asked him about a Mississippi Department of Transportation letter warning that the One Lake Project could cause the “catastrophic failure” of several major bridges in Jackson, including on Interstate 55 and Interstate 20. The mayor ignored the question, instead chiding those concerned about the threat posed to an endangered species of river sturgeon—one of many still-open concerns about One Lake, ranging from costs, to safety, to who will financially benefit from it, to workability.

“It may not be the politically correct thing to say, but I care a lot more about (Jackson residents) than some sturgeon,” Lumumba said in response to the question about bridge safety.

Residents’ concerns were more immediate. Many stood to speak with the same passion and anger that shone through

at last month’s meeting immediately after the flash floods that One Lake would not alleviate, furious with a city they felt had not addressed the clogged creeks primarily to blame for continual flash floods.

Sondra Hatcher-McNeil drew thunderous applause when she described the fear residents face sleeping at night with the threat of water bursting from nearby creeks.

“I cannot explain to you how we feel. We are sick and we are tired. If you expect us to stay here, we need help,” she said.

Lumumba responded to her concerns directly, promising to “leave no stone unturned” to seek funding to keep the creeks clean. He drew the City’s financial woes back to the lack of an enterprise fund, and warned of the difficulty of obtaining easements for maintenance.

The City provided an extensive packet of potential solutions to west Jackson’s flash floods, but acknowledged that money to pay for them would be hard to find.

“Our community is solid,” cried a resident in the crowd. “We’re solid!”

Solid, but in need of help.

Learn more about the One Lake Project at jacksonfreepress.com/pearlriver. Email reporter Nick Judin at nick@jacksonfreepress. com and follow on Twitter at @nickjudin.

February 19 - March 3, 2020 • jfp.ms

by Nick Judin

7

news,

cu l

storytelling & re, ir tu

“The optics of the situation are really bad.”

TALK JXN

— Ward 2 Councilman Melvin Priester Jr. on City efforts to over-pay Akil Bakari, a long-time supporter of Mayor Chokwe Lumumba.

@jxnfreepress

@jacksonfreepress

@jxnfreepress

ce eren rev

State Auditor Looking at City Contract; Flooding, Water Quality Plagues Jackson

by Seyma Bayram

February 19 - March 3, 2020 • jfp.ms

8

Imani Khayyam / File Photo

C

hief Administrative Officer Robert Blaine drew a unanimous censure from the Jackson City Council following an administrative error in a City contract with a prominent backer of Mayor Chokwe A. Lumumba.

The City paid Expert Professional Solutions LLC $100,000 for work on the flawed water-billing system that was supposed to have cost $48,000. Akil Bakari—who also goes by Willie Webster and W. Akil Webster—owns the business.

In addition to lodging the formal criticism against Blaine, which falls one step short of a vote of no confidence, the council voted to pursue litigation against the contractor, both to recover city funds and to investigate the work it carried out.

On Feb. 14, Ward 2 Councilman Melvin Priester Jr. confirmed to the Jackson Free Press that the city council has been moving forward on the issue. “We did, per the council’s request, have a meeting between the City’s legal department and the state auditor’s office this week, and it appears that we are going to continue on the path that we set out with at the meeting a week-and-a-half ago,” Priester said.

An ongoing issue with the municipal water-billing system, dating back to botched work under the Siemens contract beginning in 2013, resulted in a billing system that regularly crashed. Because the billing system lived on faulty physical servers, the City had been unable to bill customers for water-sewer service.

Bakari’s Expert Professional Solutions was one of several companies that the City contracted to remedy the problem, which included moving the billing system to a secure, cloud-based system.

On Sept. 11, 2018, the council voted to approve a six-month-long, $48,000 contract with Expert Professional Solutions. However, the City continued to pay Expert Professional Solutions for work it performed beyond the six-month scope of the agreement.

The company also invoiced the City for $154,100—$106,100 more than the original agreement allowed. To date, the

The Jackson City Council and State Auditor Shad White are investigating an agreement with Mayor Chokwe A. Lumumba’s backer Akil Bakari (above).

City has paid $100,000 to Expert Professional Solutions, which is registered through the Mississippi secretary of state’s office to Willie Webster.

Blaine signed off on the invoices before they went to city council, which votes to approve or reject vendor payments.

Reached at the number registered to his business, Bakari declined comment.

Optics ‘Really Bad’

Mayor Lumumba defended Blaine both at the Feb. 4 council meeting and at a press conference the following day. He said the contract did not have an end date in it, nor did it specify an exact amount that the City was to pay out to Expert Solutions.

The Jackson Free Press obtained a copy of the contract, which does not match

the order the city council voted on in 2018, that includes the $48,000 figure. The contract makes no reference to a specific monetary amount and states instead that the City of Jackson must “pay all undisputed portions of the fees as set forth in the applicable Statement of Work.” The Jackson Free Press has not yet seen a copy of the Statement of Work.

During the press conference, the mayor stood by Blaine and emphasized that his administration had self-reported the mistake to both the city attorney and city council. He also warned against efforts to characterize what he called an honest error as an intentional, deceptive move. “If this was based on a relationship or steering some type of legal contract, I don’t think anyone steers a contract and self-reports an error. And then after self-reporting an error, they support legal action to take against the company,” the mayor said.

Priester said he believes the error was “a good-faith mistake” that occurred as the City was in “the heat of a major crisis.” But, he added, “the optics of the situation are really bad,” given the “close ties” between the mayor and Bakari. Bakari had co-chaired the mayor’s transition team in 2017 and more BAKARI, p 8

Flood-Preparedness Checklist and Tips While the recent flooding in the Jackson area may be slowing down, preparing for the future is important. The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency lists measures people can take to prepare for and deal with rising waters. Here are a few. See more at msema.org.

• Purchase flood insurance. Flood insurance is guaranteed through the National Flood Insurance Program.

• Fill sinks, bathtubs and jugs with clean water in case water becomes contaminated.

Floodwater may carry raw sewage, chemical waste and other infectious substances.

• Take photographs and/or videos of all your important possessions. If a flood damages your home, these items will help you file your flood insurance claim.

• If local authorities instruct you to turn off all utilities, close your main gas valve or evacuate your home, do so immediately.

• Avoid walking through floodwater.

As little as six inches of moving water can knock you off your feet.

• Store important documents and irreplaceable personal objects where they won’t be damaged.

• Plan and practice a flood evacuation route with your family.

• Have an electrician raise electric

components such as sockets, switches and circuit breakers at least 12 inches above your home’s projected flood elevation

• If water starts to rise inside your house before you evacuate, retreat to the second floor, attic or your roof if necessary.

• Install backflow valves or plug for your drains, toilets and sewer connections.

• If you come in contact with floodwater, wash your hands with soap and disinfected water.

• Never drive through a flood area or rising water.

• Avoid downed power lines because electric currents pass easily through water.

• Look out for animals, especially snakes. Animals lose their homes in floods, too.

TALK JXN

#MSLeg Roundup

Reform By Any Other Name

by Nick Judin

transparency. Anderson’s House Bill 790 would require the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation to probe all officer-involved deaths. The state attorney general must then “determine whether the results of the investigation should be presented to the grand jury.” If a grand jury is convened, the attorney general would then appoint a state attorney as a special prosecutor, formalizing the process for prosecuting unjustified police killings.

Nick Judin

The Elephant in the Prison Cell

Mississippi’s corrections system faces national scrutiny after months of prisoner deaths and reports of brutal conditions.

James Allen Brown, 54, died Feb. 1 at Parchman prison, the 16th inmate to perish in Mississippi’s prisons since December.

Criminal-justice reform is “the elephant in

the room,” Turner-Ford says.

Sen. Juan Barnett, D-Heidelberg, is the new chairman of the Senate Corrections Committee, a powerful appointment for a Democrat in a Republican Legislature and a position of authority in a trying time for the state’s prisons. Barnett said in an interview that sentencing reform is an issue of immediate concern.

So is housing for parolees. An MDOC task force last year raised the issue of in-

Sen. Angela Turner-Ford, D-West Point, chairwoman of the Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus, presented the group’s agenda for the 2020 legislative session on Feb. 12 in the Capitol rotunda. Health care, education, criminaljustice reform and election reform topped the docket.

mates eligible for early release who remain imprisoned due to no transitional housing.

“That’s something we’re definitely looking into, to find some transitional housing we can use to move some of these individuals out of the corrections system,” Barnett said.

“We’ve been engaged with faith-based organizations and private entities as well to see how they can assist.”

Barnett is settling in for the long term, seeking to address the failings of the corrections system holistically.

“We are working not just to fix Parchman, but our Department of Corrections as a whole. We’re looking to fix the whole institution, for staff, pay, inmates, the whole nine yards. We have to be mindful, you know, that there is no way to fix all of this in a short session period,” he explained.

Rep. Jeramey Anderson, D-Gulfport, is tackling criminal-justice reform from another angle: police accountability and

Election Reform

For freshman Rep. Zakiya Summers, D-Jackson, election reform means expanding access to the ballot—and fighting off attempts to suppress it. “With Mississippi being ground zero for the Voting Rights Act, over the years since then there have been attempts to roll back those efforts,” she said at the Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus gathering.

Summers supports online first-time voter registration. Previously registered voters can already re-register online on the secretary of state’s website. That same system could be expanded to include new voters as well. “The system already exists,” Summers said. “It wouldn’t be a hard task for the secretary of state to develop it. We just need support from the Capitol.”

‘Third-Grade Gate’ Rep. Carl Mickens, D-Brooksville,

submitted House Bill 709 to end the practice of holding back third-grade students who fail a statewide reading assessment.

This “third-grade gate” began with the 2013 legislative session’s Literacy-Based Promotion Act, which then-Gov. Phil Bryant signed. The State increased the level of attainment required for students to progress to fourth grade starting with the current school year. Previously, children had to reach the second level of a five-tier scale.

This year, they must reach the third level.

Mickens says holding students back is not the solution. “I feel strongly that one test shouldn’t prevent a child from going forward to fourth grade,” Mickens said in an interview. “I’m not in favor of testing (being used) to prohibit children passing forward on any level.”

State leadership frequently celebrates the educational attainment of its elementary-school students. Gov. Tate Reeves, speaking at a Feb. 6 press conference, defended the state’s academic track record. “NAEP, in their words, said Mississippi was the only state in the nation to show significant and marked improvement in both reading and math results,” Reeves told the Jackson Free Press. He was referring to a 2019 study that compared the state’s educational gains to the rest of the nation. The study found Mississippi’s gains in fourth-grade reading to be the highest in the nation.

But Mississippi also has the highest retention rate of third-graders in the nation, which may influence the testing scores for fourth graders.

‘Ours to Look After’ Rep. Ronnie Crudup Jr., D-Jackson, introduced legislation in the House to waive the cost of post-secondary education for children presently considered wards of the state. House Bills 15 and 16 would also make allowances for children adopted after age 9.

“We have children who normally age out at the age of 19. If they don’t have any housing, a lot of them are left homeless,” Crudup said. “If they don’t have anyone who can take care of them at that point, this will hopefully provide some relief.”

As the bill extends the waiver to children adopted after age 9, the age at which the adoption rate dramatically declines, leaving most children in America’s fostermore STATE, p 8

February 19 - March 3, 2020 • jfp.ms

“W

e endeavor to be the collective voice of the 1.2 million African Americans in the state of Mississippi,” Legislative Black Caucus Chairwoman Sen. Angela Turner-Ford, D-West Point, said Feb. 12 while standing in the Mississippi Capitol rotunda as the group unveiled its agenda for 2020.

Health justice and Medicaid expansion stands front and center in the legislators’ agenda. Turner-Ford stressed the material realities of the black experience in Mississippi. “Black women in Mississippi are three times more likely to die from complications related to childbirth,” Turner-Ford said. “This is a travesty. And we want to do something about it.”

That statistic may be low. The Centers for Disease Control’s Pregnancy Mortality Surveillance System estimates around 12 deaths in 100,000 live births for white women and 40 deaths in 100,000 live births for black women. Medicaid expansion in all its forms is the caucus’ primary avenue of addressing this disparity, especially as it relates to the state’s struggling rural hospitals, many located in majority black areas of the state.

Turner-Ford has a long session in front of her. So does the rest of the caucus. The Legislature will take up many of its key issues key, from teacher pay to criminal-justice reform. But the group wants to ensure that the fruits of those efforts are equally distributed.

As part of the caucus’ education agenda, Turner-Ford brought up the issue of the state’s teacher shortage, which also reflects Mississippi’s racial disparities. School districts with higher proportions of black students tend to have higher proportions of non-certified teachers. “We’re proposing that one way this can be addressed is to implement a loan forgiveness program for those teachers who decide to go and serve in underperforming, economically depressed areas,” Turner-Ford said.

9

THE TANF PLAYERS

TALK JXN

STATE, from page 7

by Ashton Pittman

HINDS COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE

Since the last issue, a huge corruption scandal hit Mississippi with allegations of theft inside a State agency working with prominent Mississippians, Republican donors and former pro wrestlers. Here are the major accused players.

Nancy New and Zach New Nancy New is the director of the Mississippi Community Education Center, or MCEC, and New Learning, Inc., which runs the private New Summit School in Jackson and a sister school in Greenwood. State and local authorities allege New and her son, Zach, the assistance director of MCEC, used millions from a TANF embezzlement scheme for illicit activities, including using some of those funds to make personal investments in medical device companies in Florida.

Brett DiBiase Former pro-wrestler and Clinton native Brett DiBiase is the son of Ted DiBiase, also a former pro-wrestler once known as “The Million Dollar Man,” who is now a local evangelical preacher. Brett DiBiase allegedly benefited monetarily from an embezzlement scheme that authorities claim transferred federal funds that was meant for needy families to him and others involved instead.

John Davis Former Mississippi Department of Humans Services Director John Davis allegedly helped enrich Brett DiBiase by transferring TANF funds to him after manufacturing fake invoices claiming that the former wrestler was teaching classes about drug abuse. Authorities claim that Davis directed the News to use their state-funded nonprofit, MCEC, to pay for their former wrestler’s treatment at a luxury drug rehabilitation center during the time in which the allegedly faked documents claim he was teaching the classes.

Latimer Smith Former Mississippi Department of Human Services employee Latimer Smith stands accused of helping John Davis manufacture documents as part of the TANF embezzlement scheme.

Anne McGrew State authorities accuse MCEC accountant Anne McGrew of beginning a conspiracy with Zach New to transfer $2 million in state-funded nonprofit money to the New family.

Full coverage at jacksonfreepress.com/TANFarrests

care system past that age. It also defrays some of the immediate cost of adopting an older child.

In both his inauguration speech and his State of the State address, Gov. Reeves called for Mississippi to honor its commitments to its foster children. “However they come into our care, they are ours,” Reeves said. “Ours to protect. Ours to lift up. Ours to look after.”

Tying Up Loose Ends The Mississippi House finally decided the electoral challenge incumbent Ashley Henley brought against Rep. Hester Jackson-McCray, D-Horn Lake.

A painless floor vote accepted the unanimous recommendation of the Special Election Committee to confirm the results of the election, which Jackson-McCray won by 14 votes.

The Senate passed the first teacher pay bill, long-expressed as the session’s first priority. Senate Bill 2001, a statewide raise of $1,000 per teacher, raced through the chamber with virtually every senator clamoring to co-sponsor it. An equally rapid passage likely awaits it in the House.

On Feb. 6, Lt. Gov. Delbert Hosemann expressed relief that at least some of the planned teacher-pay bump was on its way to passing, undoubtedly worried that the enormous Department of Human Services scandal would distract the Legislature’s attention.

House Speaker Philip Gunn, R-Clinton, announced in January that he would

February 19 - March 3, 2020 • jfp.ms

10

Email state reporter Nick Judin at nick@ jacksonfreepress.com and follow him on Twitter at @nickjudin.

MOST VIRAL STORIES AT JFP.MS:

CITY, from page 6 was consistently present during his campaign for mayor. Before that, Bakari had headed the mayor’s late father’s transition team. “We’ve put a lot of trust in certain people, and that’s what the mayor has asked us to do,” Priester said of Blaine, adding that “when we have a situation where there is a mistake by those people, because we have put so much faith in them, we have to respond more harshly.”

He also urged the press and the public to consider the error within the context of larger systemic issues relating to the City’s internal business tracking systems, problems he believes ultimately led to such an error. “One of the things that frustrates me the most about this, and why I’m gutted that I have to call Dr. Blaine on this, is Dr. Blaine is the one who is doing the work to prevent problems like this from happening in the future,” Priester said.

not budge on his decision to prohibit lawmakers from receiving public retirement funds while drawing a portion of their legislative income.

The Public Employee Retirement System modified its policies late last year to allow for such a circumstance, but Gunn rejected the possibility, stating that “double-dipping” conflicts with state law.

“It is not right for taxpayers to have to fund both,” Gunn told the Daily Journal on Jan. 16.

The representatives introduced bills to rewrite the law, but the House Appropriations Committee quickly sunk their attempts. House Bills 601, 602 and 603 each used similar wording, rewriting state law to treat lawmakers similarly to other state employees who may continue to draw on public retirement if they go back to work for a state agency.

Ramona Blackledge, a freshman Republican representative from Laurel, submitted her resignation shortly after Gunn announced his decision.

Three remaining House members still hoping to retain their pensions while in the Legislature—Jerry Darnell, R-Hernando; Dale Goodin, R-Richton; and Billy Andrews, R-Purvis—told the website Mississippi Today after the Appropriations Committee meeting that they were unsure if they would resign.

Boil All Jackson Water Jackson residents should boil their drinking water for at least one minute before consuming it, including before cooking or baking with water, brushing teeth, or washing dishes, until further notice, the City of Jackson announced late Feb. 14.

The City of Jackson issued the citywide water boil notice on Feb. 14 after discovering above-normal turbidity levels in the City’s surface water connections, based on a Jan. 28 water sample. Turbidity measures the clarity of a liquid, which the presence of organic or inorganic materials affects. The higher turbidity, the more cloudy a liquid will be.

The Jackson Free Press asked the mayor why it took the City 16 days to notify residents about the test. “We notified the citizens as soon as the health department notified us that it was a problem that we

needed to inform (residents about), so we weren’t holding anything back,” the mayor said at a Friday press conference. The JFP learned of the turbidity levels from a Nextdoor post Friday evening from someone who had obtained a copy of the notice much earlier in the day. The JFP wrote city officials and communications at 8:55 p.m.

Thursday to ask if a boil-water notice was in place that had not gone out to the media and the public, and a city spokeswoman responded with a copy of the same notice posted on Nextdoor earlier. Attempts to reach the City of Jackson water treatment plant were unsuccessful.

On Feb. 14, the City sent out two revised releases saying that the boil-water advisory does not apply to well-water connections, but rather affects 43,000 surface drinking-water connections, adding that turbidity itself does not have health effects.

1. “City Declares State of Emergency, Orders Flood Evacuation for Northeast Jackson Residents Near Pearl River” by Nick Judin 2. “‘Sprawling Conspiracy’ Ensnares Voucher Beneficiaries, Republican Donors” by Ashton Pittman, Nick Judin 3. “2020 Power Couples” by JFP Staff 4. “Disabled Children Losing Medicaid Coverage, Families Desperate for Help” by Nick Judin 5. “Alleged TANF Fraud Follows Years of Individual Recipient Rejections” by Nick Judin

EVENTS TO CHECK OUT AT JFPEVENTS.COM: 1. Krewe de Cardinal 2020, Feb. 21 2. Mississippi ToyCon, Feb. 22 3. Super Tax Days, Feb. 22, March 7 4. 2020 Young, Gifted & Empowered Awards, Feb. 29 5. “The Princess and the Pea” Puppet Show, March 6

Please join the Mississippi Folk Art Foundation at the premier of our movie

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Pierre-Auguste Renoir (1841â&#x20AC;&#x201C;1919), Pensive (La Songeuse), 1875. Oil on paper on canvas, 18 1/8 x 15 in. Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Richmond, Collection of Mr. and Mrs. Paul Mellon, 83.47. Image Š Virginia Museum of Fine Arts.

This movie was made possible by a generous grant from the Mississippi Humanities Council and special thanks to the Mississippi Heritage Trust

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11

KEVIN FONG

D

onald J. Trump’s impeachment acquittal was a victory for white male mediocrity. The majority of the 69 white men in the U.S. Senate, engaged in a succession of choices that left in place a man, whom few beyond his base would call exceptional.

This, while expected, had an impact on me. I have been reaching out to exceptional white men I know, hoping to make sense out of this conundrum. I turned to Ashton Pittman, a white journalist who wrote a Jan. 27 essay with this perspective: “For many, Donald Trump is the ultimate poster boy for the power of white supremacy and patriarchy to elevate even the most subpar of white men far beyond the station in life they have earned. His removal from office would represent, not just the downfall of a corrupt president, but the unraveling of a system upon which countless men like him desperately depend.”

Even senators who personally believed that Trump should be impeached could not vote against their party, and by extension, the system. The one exception, Sen. Mitt Romney, admitted on Fox News that “the personal and political consequences that fall on me (for my decision) are going to be extraordinary.”

My struggle continues when I engage with white male friends, colleagues, relations and, yes, my own husband. These men are generous, kind, intelligent, gifted, ethical, hard-working and courageous.

February 19 - March 3, 2020 • jfp.ms

White males must … confront the injustice.

12

But the Senate shows how whiteness can act as a kind of stain that gets on all white men‚ even the exceptional ones. They are accorded benefits throughout their lives that net them more money and promotions than women and people of color for the same work. Cops let them go with a warning for speeding, but pull a man of color from his car and arrest or even kill him in the identical circumstance.

White men (like all of us) have confronted personal and situational challenges, but the system was created by and for their benefit and eases their journey to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.

Photo by Ruthson ZimmeRman on unsPlash

Exceptional White Men, It’s Time for a Reckoning

REPORTERS AND WRITERS City Reporter Seyma Bayram State Reporter Nick Judin Culture Reporter Aliyah Veal Contributing Reporters Ashton Pittman, Mauricio J. Quijano State Intern Julian Mills Contributing Writers Dustin Cardon, Bryan Flynn, Alex Forbes, Jenna Gibson, Tunga Otis Torsheta Jackson, Mike McDonald, Anne B. Mckee EDITORS AND OPERATIONS Deputy Editor Nate Schumann JFPDaily.com Editor Dustin Cardon Executive Assistant Azia Wiggins Listings Editor Kayode Crown Consulting Editor JoAnne Prichard Morris

Kevin Fong discusses how white men can actively defy negative stereotypes.

For example, it is preposterous for Dan Turner to say, in defense of his son’s sexualassault charge on an unconscious woman, that the punishment “is a steep price to pay for 20 minutes of action.” Judge Aaron Persky agreed, giving Brock Turner a sentence of six months in prison.

Cory Batey, a black college athlete who sexually assaulted an unconscious woman, was sentenced to 15 years in prison.

It is preposterous that armed white men can enter the Kentucky State Capitol to protest laws against their rights as gun owners, as white security guards allow them go around the metal detector in order to receive their visitor’s pass. Imagine if these gun owners were black and/or Muslim.

Within this imbalanced system, Trump gets away with unsavory, unethical and even criminal behavior throughout his life—from dodging the draft, to cheating employees and subcontractors, to mocking a disabled reporter, to disparaging people of color, women, queer folk and immigrants, to stealing from his own charity, to sexual assault, and to abuse of his office.

Would Barack Obama have been elected with the same track record?

White males must engage with one another to confront the injustice of this preposterous system and reckon with a millennium of harsh history and damage inflicted across much of the planet. From the standpoint of courageous accountability and the truth, a new, more inclusive and more just solution is possible.

My ask to my white male friends is this: Be boldly exceptional. Our society is inundated with stories of mediocre and subpar white men getting away with, and celebrated for their selfish, cruel, unethical

Editor-in-Chief and CEO Donna Ladd Publisher & President Todd Stauffer Associate Publisher Kimberly Griffin Creative Director Kristin Brenemen

and ungentlemanly deeds.

My husband, Greg, is the kindest man I know. When we go to a restaurant, he thanks the waitperson, the bus people and the cooks, who are often largely people of color. He made a Superbowl feast for the men down the block who are experiencing homelessness. I can literally wait for five minutes watching him hold the door for others before he walks through. He knows that as a white man, every act of kindness is an opportunity to disrupt a narrative that all white men are jerks.

Those small acts make a huge difference. Mr. Bernard, one of the men with whom Greg shared the Superbowl feast, said, “In my 60-plus years on this planet, I have never had a white man be so kind to me. Greg gives me hope.”

Every day, we are reminded of the injustices of oppression. Some stories garner headlines, and others are often simple, unintentional and seemingly harmless acts.

The movement toward societal healing requires commitment on the part of all of us—people of color and white people—to be mindful of our daily thoughts, words and actions. I am grateful to my white male friends and allies who are willing to be exceptionally kind, humble, accountable and fully human as we find common ground, and build bridges.

Kevin Fong gives more suggestions online at jacksonfreepress.com/exception.

Kevin Kahakula’akea John Fong is a nationally recognized and respected cultural translator, facilitator, trainer and speaker in transformative justice, leadership development and organizational design This column does not necessarily reflect the views of the JFP.

ART AND PHOTOGRAPHY Senior Designer Zilpha Young Contributing Photographers Seyma Bayram, Acacia Clark, Imani Khayyam, Ashton Pittman, Brandon Smith ONLINE & DIGITAL SERVICES Digital Web Developer Ryan Jones Web Editor Dustin Cardon Social Media Assistant Robin Johnson Web Designer Montroe Headd Let’s Talk Jackson Editor Kourtney Moncure SALES AND MARKETING (601-362-6121 x11) Marketing Writer Andrea Dilworth Marketing Consultant Mary Kozielski Advertising Designer Zilpha Young Events Assistant Leslyn Smith DISTRIBUTION Distribution Coordinator Ken Steere Distribution Team Yvonne Champion, Ruby Parks, Eddie Williams TALK TO US: Letters letters@jacksonfreepress.com Editorial editor@jacksonfreepress.com Queries submissions@jacksonfreepress.com Listings events@jacksonfreepress.com Advertising ads@jacksonfreepress.com Publisher todd@jacksonfreepress.com News tips news@jacksonfreepress.com Jackson Free Press 125 South Congress Street, Suite 1324 Jackson, Mississippi 39201 Editorial and 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 news magazine, reaching more than 35,000 readers per issue via more than 600 distribution locations in the Jackson metro area—and an average of over 35,000 visitors per week at www. jacksonfreepress.com. The Jackson Free Press is free for pick-up by readers; one copy per person, please.

First-class subscriptions are available to “gold level” and higher members of the JFP VIP Club (jfp.ms/ vip). The views expressed in this magazine and at jacksonfreepress.com are not necessarily those of the publisher or management of Jackson Free Press Inc. © Copyright 2020 Jackson Free Press Inc.

Email letters and opinion to letters@jacksonfreepress.com, fax to 601-510-9019 or mail to 125 South Congress St., Suite 1324, Jackson, Mississippi 39201. Include daytime phone number. Letters may be edited for length and clarity, as well as factchecked.

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February 19 - March 3, 2020 • jfp.ms

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13

COMMUNITY // CONCERTS // EXHIBITS // FOOD // GALLERIES // HOLIDAY // KIDS // LITERARY // SPORTS // STAGE // VISIT JFPEVENTS.COM FOR MORE.

COMMUNITY Back in the Day: A Celebration of Black History Feb. 20, Feb. 27, 6 p.m., at New Hope Baptist Church (1555 Beasley Road).

The event honors select living contributors to African American history, including Rep. Alyce G. Clarke, Rev. Edwin King, Euvester Simpson, Hezekiah Watkins. Guest speakers include John A. Peoples, Jr., Constance Slaughter-Harvey, Esq., and Derrick Johnson. Other guests include Catherine Grant, New Hope Mass Choir and MADDRAMA. African attire encouraged. Free admission; call 601-981-8696.

61st Gem, Mineral, Fossil and Jewelry Show Feb. 22, 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Feb. 23, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., at Mississippi Trademart Center (1200 Mississippi St.). The event features more than 25 dealers of gems, fossils, minerals, jewelry, lapidary tools, beads and more. Includes exhibits and educational opportunities from colleges and state organizations, displays by MGMS members of their own collections or lapidary work, and demonstrations of lapidary art such as flint knapping, cabochon cutting and jewelry making. Also includes hourly door prizes and a grand prize drawing. $6 adult, $3 student/child, children ages 5 and under free; call 601-344-8171; email rock2lanes@gmail.com; missgems.org.

An Evening with Sarah M. Broom Feb. 25, 5:30-7 p.m., at Millsaps College (1701 N. State St.). Millsaps Visiting Writers Series, Millsaps

Heritage Program, Millsaps Center for Truth, Racial Healing, and Transformation and the Mississippi Museum of Art’s Center for Art and Public Exchange join together to present Sarah M. Broom, the 2019 recipient of the National Book Award for nonfiction, who presents on her memoir “The Yellow House” alongside Kiese Laymon, the award-winning author of “Heavy.”

Free admission; call 601-974-1000; email pickawm@millsaps.edu; find it on Facebook.

Events at Two Mississippi Museums (222 North St.) • History Is Lunch: Jere Nash and Andy Taggart Feb. 26, noon. In the Craig H. Neilsen Auditorium. Jere Nash and Andy Taggart present “Two Mississippi Governors from the First and Last Decades of the Twentieth Century.” Free admission; call 601-576-6998; email cgoodwin@ mdah.ms.gov; mdah.ms.gov.

• “Mississippi Justice” Panel March 17, 6 p.m.

NMHS Unlimited Film Productions, the Medgar and Myrlie Evers Institute and Women for Progress of Mississippi present a program that focuses on the criminal-justice system in Mississippi. The film “Mississippi Justice” by Wilma Mosley Clopton serves as the backdrop for the program. Free admission; call 601-576-6800.

City of Jackson Amnesty Days Feb. 27-28, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., at Municipal Court Building (327 E. Pascagoula St.). The City of Jackson offers an opportunity for citizens to pay fines and court costs with some past due penalties being waived,

focusing mainly on traffic cases. It may also cover some misdemeanor cases such as DUIs and/ or ordinance cases with fines owed. Must bring driver’s license and/or picture ID, Social Security card and a copy of the actual ticket(s), if possible.

Free; call 601-960-1948; find it on Facebook.

opened fire on students, killing Phillip Lafayette Gibbs, 21, and James Earl Green, 17. A march of remembrance begins at 6:30 p.m. as participants march from the Gibbs-Green Memorial Plaza to Alexander Hall. Free admission; call 601-979-2272; jsums.edu.

FRIDAY 2/21 Shovels & Rope begins 8 p.m. at Duling Hall (622 Duling Ave.). The musical duo of Michael Trent and Cary Ann Hearst performs. VIP tickets come with a pre-show performance, a meet-andgreet, a photo-op with the duo, a Q&A with the artists, an autographed limited TODD COOPER edition poster, an official “By Blood” laminate and early access to the merchandise tables. Doors open at 6 p.m. Minors under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian to enter. Seating is firstcome, first-serve. Persons under 21 must pay a $5 upcharge. $30 advanced, $35 at-door, $99 VIP; call 601-292-7121; dulinghall.ticketfly.com.

“Triumph and Tragedy” Reception and March of Remembrance Feb. 27, 4-6 p.m., Margaret Walker Center at Jackson State University (1400 J.R. Lynch St.). JSU holds a grand opening and reception for the “Tragedy and Triumph: The Lives of the Gibbs-Green Survivors” exhibit that commemorates the 50th year since police

Valiant Woman of the Vote: Celebrating 100 Years of Voting Rights March 7, 6 p.m., at Marriott Hotel Downtown (200 E. Amite St.).

Women For Progress of Mississippi hosts a program to recognize the accomplishments of select women and organizations to honor the 100-year anniversary of the 19th Amendment.

‘The Little Mermaid’

by Nate Schumann

14

through choreographing, performing or teaching dance within the community.”

The Power APAC dance curriculum also covers dance history, composition, portfolio development, ré MELANIE THORTIS/THORTIS PHOTOGRAPHY

February 19 - March 3, 2020 • jfp.ms

J

acksonians need not break out their snorkels to feel like they are taking a gander under the sea this weekend. Each year, Power Academic and Performing Arts Complex, or Power APAC, produces a ballet for February featuring an all-student cast. This year, the dance department offers an adaptation of “The Little Mermaid.”

The entire story is told through “a mixture of ballet and musical theater movement” as dancers perform to the lyricless orchestral arrangements, Marlena Duncan, chairperson of the Power APAC Dance Department, says. Duncan and dance faculty members Carleigh Dunbar and Bethany Philipp developed the choreography for the show, which features 95 student cast members and is assisted by a six-person senior production crew. Main characters include Ariel, played by high school junior Ryan Crockett, Flounder, played by eighth grader Serena McGlorthan, and more.

“These students exemplify the type of APAC dancer that we want to use as role models for all of our students,” Duncan says about Crockett and McGlorthan. “They are disciplined, they have integrity, they have a very strong professional work ethic. I believe that these students will go on to continue their dance training in college. I believe they will continue to give back to their community

High school junior Ryan Crockett plays the lead, Ariel, in Power APAC’s “The Little Mermaid.”

sumé building and more. “They’re not just learning techniques. They’re learning life skills, a way to be disciplined in this life, and a way to support themselves financially. …

They’re coming into college with what a senior may have when leaving a college program,” Duncan says.

To join Power APAC, rising fourth through eighth grade students must first be accepted into academics for Power APAC and Bailey APAC, and any high schooler may audition. Auditions will be held on Saturday, May 9, from 8 a.m. to noon. In addition to dance, programs include piano, voice, strings, theater arts and visual arts.

Duncan gives thanks to Jackson Public Schools for its part in supporting the Power APAC program for the 37 years since its founding.

“Jackson Public Schools is the only district in the state of Mississippi that took a risk on creating such a fine arts program for grades 4-12, and that is a strong positive not only for JPS but for Mississippi,” she says. “This has been a fine arts magnet program, and it is the only program of its kind in the state of Mississippi.”

The show will be held on Friday and Saturday, Feb. 21-22, starting 6:30 p.m. at the Power APAC Auditorium (1120 Riverside Drive). Tickets are $6 for adults and $4 for students. For more information or to learn of other upcoming shows, visit jackson.k12.ms.us/power or call 601-960-5387.

COMMUNITY // CONCERTS // EXHIBITS // FOOD // GALLERIES // HOLIDAY // KIDS // LITERARY // SPORTS // STAGE // VISIT JFPEVENTS.COM FOR MORE.

Events at the International Museum of Muslim Culture’s Covenants & Coexistence Exhibit (101 E. Capitol St.) • Religion and The Freedom Movement: Assessing the Historical and Current Role of Women March 12, 5:30-8 p.m. A panel sparks a conversation exploring religion’s connection with the Freedom Movement through the lens, voice and role of women. The speakers include Dr. Carroll A. Watkins Ali, Rev. Eruke Ohwofasa, Beth Olansky and Aisha Waheed. Admission TBA; call 769-233-8165; immuslimcultures.org.

• Why Did Thomas Jefferson Own A Qur’an?

March 26, 5:30-8 p.m. The panel discusses whether the content of the Qur’an and the Constitution of Medina may have influenced Jefferson when he wrote the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution. The speakers include Dr. Alexandra Meav Brandon, Dr. John Andrew Morrow, Judge Denise Owens, Imam Faheem Shu’aibe and Emad Al Turk. Admission TBA; call 769-233-8165; immuslimcultures.org.

Evers Courageous Leaders of Change Awards Gala: An Evening Honoring Mrs. Myrlie Evers March 19, 6-9:30 p.m., at Jackson Convention Complex (105 E. Pascagoula St.). The event honors a group of individuals who have shown extraordinary commitment to social change in the state of Mississippi, throughout the nation and in the global community. $200 admission; call 601-709-3535; email info@ eversinstitute.org; eversinstitute.org.

JPD Citizens’ Police Academy March 23-26, 6-8 p.m., March 28, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., March 30, 6-8 p.m., at Jackson Police Training Academy (3000 St. Charles St.). The training program strives to educate and inform the community; to provide a forum for police and community interaction; to identify community problems, needs and concerns; and to foster a partnership with the community and the Police Department in working toward creating a safer environment.

BE THE CHANGE Civic Engagement Day Feb. 19, 1 p.m., at Mississippi State Capitol (400 High St.). The Mississippi Immigrants’ Rights Alliance hosts the conference regarding the racism, hysteria, xenophobia and attacks on immigrants and migrants throughout the United States and Mississippi. Free admission; call 601-968-5182.

Events at Country Club of Jackson (345 St. Andrews Drive) • 20th Annual Celebration of Education “Beyond All Limits” Fundraiser Feb. 21, 6-9 p.m.

The annual fundraiser features food, a live auction, a silent auction and a raffle drawing for a $10,000 prize. Proceeds benefit New Summit School and Spectrum Academy & Clinical Services. $125 ticket (entry for two), $25 insurance; call 601-9827827; newsummitschool.com.

• Ultimate Fashion Show & Champagne Brunch April 23, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. The Diabetes Foundation of Mississippi hosts the annual event. Models walk the runway with this season’s spring and summer apparel for men, women and children.

Features raffle items, as well as a champagne brunch. The organization also honors two Women of Excellence. $75 ticket; call 601957-7878; msdiabetes.org.

Habitat for Humanity Mississippi Honors Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr Feb. 22, Feb. 29, March 7, March 14, March 21, March

28, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., at Habitat for Humanity Mississippi Capital Area (615 Stonewall St.). Habitat for Humanity links with 13 other entities to rehab a home for a local family in honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. The rehab project spans over 11 consecutive Saturdays until completion. The homeowners are responsible for a down payment, must attend home-ownership classes about budgeting, home maintenance and being a good neighbor. Free admission; call 601-353-6060; email vstein@habitatmca.org.

2020 Kaleidoscope 5k Colorthon Run/Walk Feb. 22, 9 a.m., at Fondren Church (3327 Old Canton Road). Central Mississippi REALTORS hosts the secondannual 5k event. Also features a one-mile fun run for kids. Race packets include T-shirts, nontoxic colored powder, numbered bibs and more. Sign-in begins 8 a.m.

Awards distributed following the run/walk. Proceeds benefit St Dominic’s Cancer Center Patient Care Fund and Camp Bluebird.

Virtual run option available. $25 5k, $10 fun run; call 601-9481332; kaleidoscope.guide.

Cocktails, Cats & Canines Feb. 22, noon-4 p.m., at Chipper & Coco (120 District Blvd. E., Suite d113). This event features cocktails and beer courtesy of Cathead Vodka, Fine & Dandy, Sophomore Spanish Club and Southern Beverage. Pets welcomed and encouraged to participate in the inaugural Mardi Gras costume parade.

The event also includes a tour of the Public Safety Communications Center, an overview of the Community Relations/Crisis Intervention Unit, S.W.A.T/Bomb Squad exhibitions,

SATURDAY 2/22 Super Tax Days is from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Jackson Convention Complex (105 E. Pascagoula St.). Tax professionals offer their services to help attendees fill out paperwork to maximize their tax refunds. No appointment necessary. Participants seen first-come, first-served. Attendees must bring photo ID (of both themselves and their spouses if PIXABAY filing jointly), income documents including W-2s and 1099s, social security cards for everyone claimed, previous tax returns (if any), Health Insurance Marketplace Statement (Form 1095-A), and checking/savings account numbers if direct deposit is desired. Attendees may potentially win up to $50 in cash through a scratch-off card promotion and are entered into other drawings, including a $10,000 grand prize from the national Save Your Refund program. Additional date: March 7. Free admission; call 601-923-3950.

Also includes demos from expert dog trainer Symeon Robins and microchipping options. Adoptable CARA pets on-site, as well as multiple raffles for prizes from local businesses. All proceeds and donations from the event benefit CARA, whose mission is to place adoptable animals into loving, caring homes. Admission TBA; call 601-487-1596.

Girls With A Dream Mentoring Group Feb. 24, March 2, March 9, March 16, March 23, March 30, April 6, April 13, April 20, April 27, May 4, May 11, 6-7:30 p.m., at Jayne Avenue Community Center (3615 Jayne Ave.).

The mentoring session caters to girls ages 4-17 and covers various topics on how to improve social skills, strengthen relationships with peers and parents, build communication and leadership skills, set goals, handle stress, responsibly use social media, build self-esteem, manage money and more. Free admission; call 601-506-6989; find on Facebook.

Fourth Annual Respect Our Black Dollars Black Business Awards Banquet Feb. 28, 7-11 p.m., at Masonic Temple (1072 J.R. Lynch St.). Too Blakk Too Strong Mega-Blast hosts the awards event that highlights some of the top black businesses in Mississippi. In addition to the awards ceremony, the event includes poetry, music and food. $25 advanced, $30 at-door, $200 table of 10; call 601-940-2504; email stanleywesley1017@gmail. com; find it on Facebook.

and Driving/Firearms Simulator training. The SWAT/Bomb presentation and firearms instruction session takes place on Saturday at the Police Firing Range. Open enrollment until March 13.

Registration through the Office of Community Relations required. Free admission; call 601-9601389; email rwalker@jacksonms.gov.

2020 Public Humanities Awards Gala March 27, 5:30-8 p.m., at Old Capitol (100 S. State St.). The Mississippi Humanities Council hosts its annual awards gala to recognize work done by Mississippians to bring the humanities to public audiences. In addition to the awards, MHC also celebrates 30 recipients of the Humanities Teacher Awards from each of Mississippi’s institutions of higher learning. $50 individual ticket, sponsorship options available; call 601432-6572; email mmcmillan@mhc.state.ms.us; mshumanities.org.

14th Annual Creative Arts & Scholarly Engagement (CASE) Festival April 3-4, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., at Margaret Walker Center (1400 J.R. Lynch St.). The Mississippi Arts Commission, the National Endowment for the Arts and

Annual Spring Speakeasy & Silent Auction March 5, 6-10 p.m., at Duling Hall (622 Duling Ave.). McWillie Elementary School PTA organizes party with live entertainment by Southern Comfort Brass Band and DJ Young Venom, open bar, and catering by 4 Top Catering. 1920s attire is strongly encouraged.

Attendees must be 21+. Proceeds benefit school. $40, $10 off with promocode EARLYBIRD ending February 28; call 601-292-7121; dulinghall.ticketfly.com.

“Keep It Rolling” Gala March 14, 7 p.m., at Jackson Medical Mall Foundation (350 W. Woodrow Wilson Ave.). The Mississippi Paralysis Association presents the inaugural fundraising gala.

Proceeds go toward assisting Mississippians with paralysis-based disabilities. Features live performances by Jarekus Singleton, Ben Strings and Jarez. Also Includes food, drinks, a silent auction and more. $35 individual, $50 couple; call 601-421-1423.

Racing for Donation April 25, 7:30 a.m., at Mississippi Organs Recovery Agency (4400 Lakeland Drive, Flowood). Participants run and walk in the ninth annual fundraising event that supports organ, eye and tissue donation.

Features 5k and 8k options for adults and a one-mile fun run for kids. Early registration prices end April 1. On-site registration opens 6:30 a.m. $30 8k/5k individual, $25 team, $10 fun run; call 601936-8610; email cstinson@msora. org; raceroster.com.

the Margaret Walker Center fund and host the annual writing conference themed “Popular Media, Memory, and Generational Inheritances: The Power of Intersectional Narratives.” Participants are invited to create proposals for papers, presentations, and panels from high school, undergraduate and graduate students from around the country on any topic. Proposals are due Friday, March 6. Visual artist John Jennings, whose work centers around intersectional narratives regarding identity, politics and popular media, keynotes the conference. Admission TBA; call 601-979-3935; jsums.edu. ’90s Sitcom Trivia Night April 9, 7-9 p.m., at Urban Foxes (826 North St.). Christopher Pecou and Drew Braswell hosts a trivia night to see how much of American sitcoms are remembered. Due to limited space, only 10 teams of 4 allowed and a representative from the teams can reserve a spot starting at 6 p.m. Sign up starts 7 p.m., and trivia begins at 8 p.m. The team with the most points after three rounds wins. Refreshmore EVENTS, p 16

February 19 - March 3, 2020 • jfp.ms

The honorees include Rep. Alyce Clarke, Fannie Lou Hamer, Tougaloo College, Patricia Sim, Women for Progress, Donna Ladd, Dorothy Triplett and Vicki Slater. Maggie Wade Dixon and Walt Grayson of WLBT-TV3 serve as program guides. $100 individual, $1,000 table (10 people); call 601-813-5045; email connectingdots369@gmail.com; find it on Facebook.

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S L AT E

the best in sports over the next two weeks

Visit JFPEVENTS.COM for more.

COMMUNITY // CONCERTS // EXHIBITS // FOOD // GALLERIES // HOLIDAY // KIDS // LGBT // LITERARY // SPORTS // STAGE

by Bryan Flynn, jfp.ms/sports

College basketball is entering the final stretch as the madness of March approaches. College baseball and softball begins as spring nears.

THURSDAY, FEB. 20

Women’s college basketball (7-9:30pm SECN): University of Kentucky v. University of Mississippi.

FRIDAY, FEB. 21

College baseball (4-7:30pm SECN+): Oregon State University v. Mississippi State University.

vations required. Admission TBA; call 601-5766920; email info@oldcaptiolmuseum.com.

Events at Mississippi Museum of Natural Science (2148 Riverside Drive)

MONDAY 2/24 Pressed Flower Workshop is from 10 a.m. to noon at Eudora Welty House & Garden (1119 Pinehurst St.). Volunteer gardener Marsha Cannon leads the hands-on workshop on flower pressing. Limited space. $20 registration; call 601353-7762; email info@eudoraweltyhouse.com; mdah.ms.gov.

SATURDAY, FEB. 22

Men’s college basketball (2:30-5pm SECN): MSU v. Texas A&M University.

SUNDAY, FEB. 23

Women’s college basketball (5-7:30pm SECN): Mississippi v.

University of Missouri.

MONDAY, FEB. 24

Men’s college basketball (6-8:30pm ESPN): University of Louisville v.

Florida State University.

TUESDAY, FEB. 25

College baseball (4-7:30pm SECN+): University of Southern Mississippi v.

Mississippi.

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 26

College baseball (4-7:30pm SECN+): Alcorn State University v. MSU. THURSDAY, FEB. 27

Women’s college basketball (8-10:30pm SECN): University of Arkansas v. MSU.

PIXABAY

ments and prizes included. Free admission; call 769-572-5505; email urbanfoxesjxn@gmail. com; find it on Facebook.

KIDS NASA Day Feb. 20, 9 a.m.-noon, at Two Mississippi Museums (222 North St.). Students explore Mississippi’s role in the history of space travel with museums tours and interactive STEM activities presented by the John C. Stennis Space Center. Admission TBA; call 601-576-6800; mdah.ms.gov.

Face to Face with History March 5, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., at Old Capitol Museum (100 State St.).

Students interact with several figures from Mississippi history as they tour the Museum. Reser-

FRIDAY, FEB. 28

Softball (7-10pm SECN+): University of Alabama, Birmingham v. MSU. SATURDAY, FEB. 29

Men’s college basketball (12-2:30pm SECN): Vanderbilt University v. UM.

February 19 - March 3, 2020 • jfp.ms

SUNDAY, MARCH 1

16

Women’s college basketball (1:40-3:10pm SECN): MSU v. Mississippi.

MONDAY, MARCH 2

Men’s college basketball (8-10:30pm ESPN): Texas Tech University v. Baylor University.

TUESDAY, MARCH 3

Men’s college basketball (5:30-8pm SECN): MSU v. University of South Carolina.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 4

Men’s college basketball (8-10:30pm SECN): Missouri v. Mississippi.

• 4th Annual Science Makers March 6, 9 a.m.noon. The museum hosts an event celebrating women and people from other minorities who make significant contributions to science.

Attendees learn about careers with STEM professionals and by engaging in hands-on science activities. $6 adult, $4 child, kids ages 3 and under free, members free; call 601-576-6000; email nicole@mmns.ms.gov; mdwfp.com.

• Fossil Road Show March 7, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

The annual event invites participants to bring their fossil discoveries to get expert opinions on their ages and origins. Includes hands-on activities, “fossil digs” and a scavenger hunt. Attendees encouraged to explore the museum’s fossil collection and collector displays. $6 adult, $4 child, kids ages 3 and under free, members free; email nicole@mmns.ms.gov; mdwfp.com.

Genesis Spring Break Camp March 9-13, 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m., at Genesis and Light Center (4914 N. State St.). During the week, children (grades K-8) participate in enrichment and STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math) recreational activities, computer games, movies, Foosball, air hockey, board games, arts and crafts projects and more.

Parents must provide their child’s lunch. Visit the Center to register or to volunteer to help. $70 registration per child; call 601-362-6736; email genesisandlight@yahoo.com.

FOOD & DRINK With Great Food & Great Friends March 19, 11:45 a.m.-1:30 p.m., at The Manship (1200 N. State St., Suite 100). Women of Progress of Mississippi hosts a lunch event to honor Sen. Hillman Terome Frazier for his now 40 years of service. $25 ticket; call 601-259-6770.

SPORTS & WELLNESS

story speakers last from 8:30-9:30 a.m. in room 216. Free admission; call 601-899-9058.

Power Vision Athletics Tumbling Classes Feb. 19, Feb. 26, March 3, March 11, March 18, March 25, April 1, April 8, April 15, April 22, April 29, May 6, May 13, 5:30-7:30 p.m., at Grove Park Community Center (4126 Parkway Ave.). Instructors teach children ages 5 and up how to tumble. $25 registration fee/ monthly fee; call 601-910-8250.

• Brain Injury Awareness Day at the Capitol March 18, 8:30 a.m.-noon. The Brain Injury Association of Mississippi organizes the event allowing participants to ask questions, meet with legislators, medical professionals, their organizational partners and engage with survivors and caregivers about the impact brain and spinal cord injuries have had on their lives. All brain and spinal cord injury survivors, caregivers, healthcare professionals and supportive agencies are invited. Free admission; call 601-981-1021.

Events at Mississippi State Capitol (400 High St.) • Mental Health & Wellness Day March 11, 8 a.m.-10:30 a.m.

The event begins on the 1st floor Rotunda locations A, B, C, D and the East and West Hallways at the Mississippi State Capitol.

Exhibitors set up in the hallways from 8-10 a.m., and the personal

Path to Recovery Two-Day Crash Course March 14-15, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., at NAMI Mississippi State Office (2618 Southerland St., Suite 100). Latasha Wil-

53rd Annual Beth Israel Bazaar March 25, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., at Beth Israel Congregation (5315 Old Canton Road). The annual fundraising event features Jewish food, desserts, a silent auction, a white elephant sale and a raffle. Attendees may choose dine-in or take-out options for food. Admission TBA; call 601-956-6215; email office@bethisraelms.org; find it on Facebook.

Festival of Colors - Holi April 18, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., at Hindu Temple Society of Mississippi (173 Vernon Jones Ave., Brandon). The Hindu festival celebrates the coming of spring with food, music, dancing, Holi colors, Mehendi, water splashes and more. Free admission; call 601-992-3331; find it on Facebook.

NogginFeast 2020 May 4, 7 p.m., at Renaissance at Colony Park (1000 Highland Colony Parkway, Ridgeland). The Brain Injury Association of Mississippi hosts the annual event that raises awareness about brain injury and provides services for survivors and families. Award-winning restaurants and vendors serve up selections of food, desserts and drinks. Chris Gill & The Sole Shakers perform. Joseph LaSalla and other Mississippi artists also perform. Admission TBA; call 601-981-1021; renaissanceatcolonypark.com.

STAGE & SCREEN Events at Belhaven University (1500 Peachtree St.) • “The Women of Lockerbie” Feb. 19-21, 7:30 p.m., Feb. 22, 2 p.m. In the Blackbox Theatre.

Belhaven’s Theatre Department presents a production of “The Women of Lockerbie” by Deborah Brevoort. $10 adult, $5 student/senior; call 601-974-6478; belhaven.edu.

• “The Pirates of Penzance” April 2-3, 7:30 p.m., April 4, 2 p.m., April 8-9, April 16-17, 7:30 p.m., April 18, 2 p.m. In the Blackbox

lis and Jessica James teach a class that covers some of the science behind mental health, coping skills and more to better facilitate mental health recovery. Materials and refreshments included.

Registration required. Limited space. Attendees must complete an additional component for at least six sessions after the course to earn a certificate. Waitlist available. Free admission; call 601-899-9058; Eventbrite.

Making the Trek: From the ED to the ICU April 3, 7:30 a.m.4:30 p.m., at Hilton Jackson (1001 E. County Line Road).

The Greater Jackson AACN Chapter and the Mississippi Emergency Nurses Association host the nursing education conference. The event includes guest speakers discussing various topics, as well as lunch and snacks.

Vendors on-site. $75 general, $50

more EVENTS, p 20

AACN/ENA members, $25 students/faculty; Eventbrite.

Free Cervical and Breast Cancer Screening April 25, 8 a.m.-3 p.m., at Jackson Medical Mall (350 Woodrow Wilson Blvd.).

UMMC’s Department of Pathology and the Cancer Center and Research Institute offer cervical, oral and breast cancer exams to women ages 21-64. Results given the same day. Other screening guidelines apply. UMMC caregivers and community providers offer health information on available community resources, diet and physical fitness. Additional education provided with cancer screenings. Call to determine eligibility and to set up an appointment. Limited space.

Light refreshments and limited childcare available. Free admission; email cwall@umc.edu.

17

February 19 - March 3, 2020 â&#x20AC;¢ jfp.ms

FOOD&DRINK

With Our Party Packs Or Rib Packs

MCKEE HARRIS WADLINGTON

Feed the Team

Lemon Vinaigrette Salad Dressing

by Mckee Harris Wadlington

Great For Feeding The Home Team Before the Game 1491 Canton Mart Rd. Jackson s

Bar & Lounge

Citrus fans may love this healthy and zesty lemon vinaigrette on a bed of salad.

E

verybody needs someone to love, a sweetheart to miss, sugar to kiss. Valentine’s Day may be behind us, but we can still seek out new ways to show your special someone how much you care. A pitfall of life is to take the important people in our lives for granted, so making an effort to express our appreciation for one another can be critical. One way to do that is to break out a home-cooked meal for a cozy date night. Treat yourself and your significant other with this simple but tasty (and healthy) salad dressing option.

February 19 - March 3, 2020 • jfp.ms

SOCIAL HOUR

18

Equipment • Lemon Zester • Mixing Bowl • Whisk • Chef’s Knife • Cutting Board

Ingredients • 3-4 lemons • 1 orange • 2 shallots (minced) • 1 garlic clove (minced) • 1/4 teaspoon thyme, fresh (minced) • 1 tablespoon dijon mustard • 1 tablespoon honey • 3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

Instructions 1. Gently rinse your citrus fruits under cool running water.

2. Use the lemon zester to collect zest from your lemons and orange into a mixing bowl.

3. Slice and squeeze the juice from the lemons and oranges into the mixing bowl with the zest. Be mindful of the seeds; you do not want any of those in your dressing if you can help it.

4. Add the minced shallots, garlic clove and thyme, as well as the dijon mustard and honey, into the mixture. Whisk until ingredients evenly blended and distributed.

5. Begin to add the extra virgin olive oil a little at a time whilst whisking. Be sure to whisk aggressively (without making a mess, mind you). Continue until all of the oil has been whisked into your dressing.

6. Serve over your favorite salad components and enjoy.

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Get the app!

Episode 8x01

Now available on

Aleshia Judkins February 19, 2020

Aleshia Judkins is the State Director for Criminal Justice Reform at Fwd.us, a bipartisan group founded by leaders in the technology and business communities seeking meaningful reform in the areas of immigration and criminal justice. She spoke with Jackson Free Press editor-in-chief Donna Ladd about the fact that Mississippi has the third highest level of incarceration, and how that’s affecting public safety and crime rates.

Let’s Talk Jackson is sponsored by Mississippi Federal Credit Union (http://msfcu.us/); this episode also is brought to you by the Center for Art & Public Exchange at the Mississippi Museum of Art. More at http://museumcape.org/.

Join hosts Donna Ladd, Todd Stauffer, Ashton Pittman and others in Season 8

Let's Talk Jackson is powered by the Jackson Free Press.

WWW.LETSTALKJACKSON.COM

February 19 - March 3, 2020 • jfp.ms

K L A T S ’ T LE JAC KS O N

19

Community // Concerts // Exhibits // Food // Galleries // Holiday // Kids // Literary // Sports // Stage // Visit JFPEVENTS.COM for more.

Theatre. The Belhaven Theatre Department presents its production of “The Pirates of Penzance.” Music by Arthur Sullivan. Book and Lyrics by W. S. Gilbert. Directed by Joseph Frost. $10 general, $5 student/senior; call 601-9746478; email theatre@belhaven.edu.

Black History Month Film Series Feb. 20, Feb. 27, 6:30-10 p.m., at AND Gallery (133 Millsaps Ave.). The gallery hosts film screenings for documentaries that highlight cultural achievements of black women. Free admission; email andgalleryart@gmail.com; find it on Facebook.

• “The Rockin’ Tale of Snow White” Feb. 20, Feb. 22, 7:30 p.m., Feb. 23, 2 p.m., Feb. 27-28, 7 p.m., Feb. 29, 10 a.m. and 7:30 p.m., March 1, 2 p.m. The theater presents performances of the stage play. The tale of Snow White is retold to include comedic moments, new characters and a musical score that includes hip-hop, rock ‘n’ roll, doo-wop and other genres. Reservations encouraged. $12.50 online, $15 at-door; call 601-825-1293; email beth.alexander27@yahoo. com; blackrosetheatre.org.

• “The Glass Menagerie” April 16-18, 7:30 p.m., April 19, 2 p.m., April 23-25, 7:30 p.m., April 26, 2 p.m. The theater presents a production of “The Glass Menagerie” by Tennessee Williams. The show follows Amanda Wingfield, a faded remnant of Southern gentility living in a dingy St. Louis apartment with her son, Tom, and her daughter, Laura, who has a physical handicap and debilitating shyness. When Tom brings a friend home from work, illusions created in order to make life bearable collapse about them. Reservations encouraged. $12.50 online, $15 at-door; call 601-825-1293; email beth.alexander27@yahoo.com; blackrosetheatre.org.

Events at Chuckles Comedy House Jackson (6379 Ridgewood Court Drive) • Faizon Love Live at Chuckles Feb. 20, 8 p.m., Feb. 21-22, 7:30 and 10 p.m., Feb. 23, 8 p.m.

The comedian and actor known for his appearances on Comedy Central, “Bad Boys of Com-

by Nate Schumann

M

any hobbyists await the day BaeBae Cosplay and Taycosplay. Attendthat a convention for their fa- ees are encouraged to wear costumes and vorite pastime comes to their enter the cosplay contests for different state. Local toy collectors can age divisions, with winners receiving varinow cheer as the first-ever Mississippi ous prizes. Door prizes will be held every ToyCon takes place on Saturday, Feb. 22. half hour. Early bird admission begins at Held at the Brandon Civic Center (1000 Municipal Drive, Brandon), the event features more than 40 vendors offering toys, vintage and modern, as well as comics and other Vendors sell assortments of vintage and modern toys at the first ever Mississippi ToyCon on Saturday, Feb. 22. collectibles.

Those looking to get a few snapshots to commemo- 9 a.m. and costs $8 in advance and $10 rate attending the inaugural event can the day of the event. Regular admission find photo opportunities with Disney is $5 and begins at 10 a.m. Children ages princesses and the “Jurassic Park” jeep. 12 and under may enter for free. To learn Special guests include local wrestler Rey more, email momstrashcan@gmail.com Fury and cosplayers JNL Adventures, or visit mstoycon.com.

edy,” “Friday” and 30 other movies performs.

Two-item minimum purchase and casual dress required. $20 general, $40 VIP, plus two menu items (costs vary); call 769-257-5467; chucklescomedyhouse.com.

• Bruce Bruce Live at Chuckles Feb. 28-29, 7:30 p.m. and 10 p.m., March 1, 8 p.m. The comedian and actor known for his roles in “ComicView,” “Think Like a Man,” and more performs. $25 ticket; call 769-257-5467; email

February 19 - March 3, 2020 • jfp.ms

JFP SPONSORED

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2020 Young, Gifted & Empowered Awards Feb. 29, 7-9 p.m., at Jackson Preparatory School (3100 Lakeland Drive, Flowood). The awards ceremony honors young professionals ages 25-45 who are champions in art, education, innovation, leadership, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy and who have demonstrated a noteworthy commitment to excellence, community service and more. Honorees this year include Lakeysha Hallmon, Rukia Lumumba, Gregory Johnson, Le’Spencer Walker and Kiana Pendleton. Red-carpet reception begins 5:45 p.m. Free admission, registration required; Eventbrite.

Breast Cancer Luncheon March 6, 5:30-8 p.m., at The Rickhouse (717 Poplar Blvd.). Susan G. Komen Memphis-MidSouth Mississippi invites survivors of and those living with metastatic breast cancer for a free luncheon. Free admission for survivors of/those battling breast cancer; call 901-757-8686.

Hal’s St. Paddy’s Parade & Festival 2020 March 28, 7:30 a.m., at Downtown Jackson. Hal & Mal’s hosts the 37th annual St. Patrick’s Day parade. This year’s theme is “Here’s looking at RUDE, Kid.” Alexander Armstrong “Trace” Alston III serves as grand marshal. The parade itself starts 1 p.m. and features floats and other participants. The parade route goes down State, East Capitol, West and Court streets. Proceeds benefit Batson’s Hospital for Children. The annual after-party is held at Hal & Mal’s (200 Commerce St.) and includes live music from Chee Weez, Mustache The Band, Chad Wesley Band, DJ Adam, NU AJC & The Envelope Pushers and Southern Komfort Brass Band.

Must be 18 or older to attend the after-party. Free admission for parade and festival, $10 after-party; call 601-948-0888; halsstpaddysparade.com. Taste of Mississippi April 6, 7-10 p.m., at Ice House

Events at New Stage Theatre (1100 Carlisle St.) Jay Sarrett

Events at Black Rose Theatre Company (103 Black St., Brandon).

Mississippi ToyCon 2020

“The Princess and the Pea” Puppet Show March 6, 9:30 a.m., March 7, 2 p.m., at Olde Towne Depot (281 E. Leake St., Clinton). Olde Towne Depot, the City of Clinton and the Mississippi Puppetry Guild present a Puppet Arts Theatre production of “The Princess and the Pea.” Funded in parts by the Mississippi Arts Commission and the National Endowment for the Arts. Includes a demonstration of puppet making using ordinary materials to create a technically complex character. Free admission; call 601-924-0113.

chucklescomedyhouse7@gmail.com; chucklescomedyhouse.com.

• John Heffron Live at Chuckles March 13-14, 7:30 p.m. and 10 p.m., March 15, 5 p.m. The energetic comedian who won the second season of “Last Comic Standing” shares an array of relatable experiences from his childhood to his life as a husband and father. $22.50 general, $35 VIP; call 769-257-5467; email chucklescomedyhouse7@gmail.com; chucklescomedyhouse.com.

• “Pipeline” March 10-14, 7:30 p.m., March 15, 2 p.m., March 17, 7:30 p.m. The theater presents a production of “Pipeline” by Obie Awardwinning playwright Dominique Morisseau.

The play addresses the state of the American educational system. Nya, an inner-city public high school teacher, is committed to her students but wants to give her son better opportunities.

After a confrontation at the son’s private school, Nya must make some tough choices as a parent. $30 general admission; call 601-948-3533; newstagetheatre.com.

• “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time” April 21-25, 7:30 p.m., April 26, 2 p.m., April 28-30, May 1-2, 7:30 p.m., May 3, 2 p.m. The theater presents a production of the play written by Simon Stephens that was based on the award-wining novel by Mark Haddon. When a neighborhood dog dies unexpectedly, 15-year-old Christopher investigates the case, despite his distaste for being touched and his distrust toward others. $30 general admission; call 601-948-3533; newstagetheatre.com.

Events at Thalia Mara Hall (255 E. Pascagoula St.) • “Beautiful: the Carole King Musical” (Touring) March 11, 7:30 p.m. The musical recounts the life of Carol King, born Carol Klein, a girl from Brooklyn who fights her way into the record business as a songwriter and artist. $55-$125; call 601-960-1537; thaliamarahall. net.

(251 W. South St.). BlueCross & BlueShield of Mississippi holds the annual fundraising event as a hunger-relief effort benefitting Stewpot. Restaurants and chefs from around the area serve samples of their food. Adult beverages available. Features live entertainment and a silent auction. $70 advanced, $90 at-door; call 601-353-2759, ext.18; atasteofms.org.

Thrive @ Work Luncheon April 16, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., at The Westin Hotel (407 S. Congress St.).

The Women’s Foundation of Mississippi holds its third annual luncheon that showcases businesses with innovative workplace policies and discusses their positive impacts for both the employee and employer. A panel of business leaders share their experiences, both successes and challenges, to foster discussion and learning. The panel consists of Molly Brasfield (UMMC), Lindsay Thomas Dowdle (Jones Walker, LLP) and Carol Harris (Mississippi Development Authority). $100 ticket, sponsor/ partner prices vary; call 601-326-3001; womens-foundation-of-mississippi.networkforgood.com.

Susan G. Komen Metro Jackson Race for the Cure April 25, 8 a.m., at Old Capitol Museum (100 State St.). JFP Editor Donna Ladd is the breast-cancer Survivor of the Year for the 21st annual event. It is a one-mile walk and a 5k walk/run (optional time component). Also features a “Kids for the Cure” activity tent, the regular Team Tailgate area and sponsor tents, as well as the “Pink It Up” contest will recognize the best “Pinked Up” person. Other contests include best-decorated team tailgate and best T-shirt design. Only timed runners are eligible for timed results and awards. The overall winners receive their trophies during the presentation at 10 a.m. on the main stage. All other winners medals will be available at the kiosk. The event also includes a breakfast for breast cancer survivors at 7:30 a.m. Team photos taken between 7:30-11 a.m. Twenty-five percent of proceeds benefit breast-cancer research endeavors. $30 adult, $20 kid, $5 added to either price for timed entry; call 601-932-3999; email cyoung@komenmemphisms.org; info-komen.org.

COMMUNITY // CONCERTS // EXHIBITS // FOOD // GALLERIES // HOLIDAY // KIDS // LITERARY // SPORTS // STAGE // VISIT JFPEVENTS.COM FOR MORE.

Krewe de Cardinal 2020 Feb. 21, 7-11 p.m., at The South Warehouse (627 E. Silas Brown St.). St. Richard’s holds its annual Mardi Gras-themed fundraiser, which includes creole cuisine, live music, adult beverages and an online silent auction. Proceeds benefit St. Richard Catholic School. $50 general, $300 VIP; call 601-366-2335; strichardschool.org.

• “Giselle, Act 2” Ballet April 2, 7 p.m. Ballet Mississippi presents its annual spring showcase, which opens with three new original works choreographed by Artistic Director David Keary and closes with Act II of the classic romantic ballet, “Giselle.” In the dramatic ballet classic, the beautiful peasant girl, Giselle, is pursued by a gamekeeper, Hilarion and the Duke Albrecht—who is already betrothed. To win Giselle, Albrecht pretends to be a peasant. The story relays what happens thereafter. $20 general admission; call 601-960-1560; balletms.com.

• “An American in Paris” (Touring) April 14, 7:30 p.m. The Tony Award-winning musical tells the story of an American soldier, a mysterious French girl, and an indomitable European city, each yearning for a new beginning in the aftermath of war. $40-$125; call 601-960-1537; thaliamarahall.net.

• Roméo et Juliette • Gounod’s Grand French Opera April 25, 7:30-9:30 p.m. The French opera recounts the story of “Romeo and Juliet.”

Includes the musical talents of Cody Laun, Stacey Trenteseaux, Luke Scott, Andre Chiang, Kimberly Sogioka and Michael Nansel. Also features the Mississippi Opera Chorus. Directed by Patrick Jacobs. Conducted by Jay Dean. Reserved seating. Funded in parts by the Mississippi Arts Commission and the National Endowment for the Arts. $15-$65; call 601-960-2300; email info@msopera.org; msopera.org.

“Frozen Heart” Ballet March 28-29, 2 p.m., at Jackson Academy Performing Arts Center (4908 Ridgewood Road). Mississippi Metropolitan Ballet, under the direction of Jennifer Beasley, presents the full-length ballet “Frozen Heart,” based on “The Snow Queen” by Hans Christain Andersen and set to a score by Hugo Alfven.

The ballet follows Snow Queen Elsandra as her heart is frozen by the evil Troll King. A “princess parade” follows the performance. $20-$25 ticket, $15 parade (separate); call 601-853-4508.

Jermaine “FunnyMaine” Johnson Comedy Show April 1, 7 p.m., at Duling Hall (622 Duling Ave.). The comedian performs as part of his

“SISTERS” April 2-5, at Jackson State University (1400 J.R. Lynch St.). In the Rose McCoy Auditorium. MADDRAMA presents the musical that focuses on social issues, especially the survival of strong women in society. Features Rhonda Chamber-Davis, local actress from Tyler Perry’s films and stage plays, Also features Mississippi Mass Choir soloist Alisa Patrick McDonald and a talented group of JSU’s actors, singers and dancers. $15 general, $12 senior/military, $10 student; call 601-454-1183; email mark@maddrama.com; maddramams.com.

CONCERTS & FESTIVALS

• Against Me! March 31, 8 p.m. The punk rock band performs. Stef Chura also performs.

Doors open at 6 p.m. $20 advanced, $25 atdoor; dulinghall.ticketfly.com.

• Shawn Colvin April 20, 7:30 p.m. The threetime Grammy winner performs as part of her 30th Anniversary Tour. Daphne Willis also performs. Doors open at 5.30 p.m. $40 advanced, $45 at-door, VIP $120.00; call 601-292-7121.

Events at Martin’s Downtown (214 S. State St.)

Chamber III - Spring Delight March 7, 7:309:30 p.m., at Millsaps College - Ford Academic Complex (1701 N. State St.). William Garfield Walker, a young conductor whose Jackson and Mississippi Symphony Orchestra roots branched into an international career, guest-conducts the evening’s closing piece: Schubert’s famous “Unfinished Symphony.” The concert features more on the lineup, including classical guitarist Giovanni De Chiaro performing a concerto written for him. $23 adult, $5 student/children ages 4-18; call 601-960-1565; email rroberts@ msorchestra.com; msorchestra.com.

• The Grass is Dead Live Feb. 22, 10 p.m. The bluegrass, swing and folk music band performs.

Doors open 9 pm. Ages 18+. $10 advanced, $12 day-of; call 601-354-9712; find it on Facebook.

From Classics to Glee Club Eighth Anniversary Spring Concert March 8, 2:30 p.m., at St. Philip’s Episcopal Church (5400 Old Canton Road). The Metro Male Chorus performs in

The ‘Plus Ultra’ EP Release Celebration Feb. 21, 8-11 p.m., at 4th Avenue Lounge (209 S. Lamar St.). Dear Silas and 4th Avenue Lounge hold an album release party for the artist’s latest EP, “Plus Ultra.” Admission TBA; call 601259-5825; email iam4thavenue@gmail.com; find it on Facebook.

THURSDAY 2/27

Events at Duling Hall (622 Duling Ave.) • The Red Clay Strays / Magnolia Bayou Feb. 20, 8 p.m. The Red Clay Strays playing country music and southern rock performs. Magnolia Bayou, rock band from South Mississippi, also performs. Doors open at 6 p.m. For all Duling Hall shows listed below (except “Take Five”): Minors under 18 must be accompanied by a guardian to enter. Seating is first-come, first-serve. Persons under 21 must pay a $5 upcharge. $10 advanced, $15 at-door; call 601-292-7121; dulinghall.ticketfly.com.

• Reckless Kelly Feb. 27, 8 p.m. The countryrock band performs. The Ballard Journeay Show also performs. Doors open at 6 p.m. $30 advanced, $35 at-door; dulinghall.ticketfly.com.

• Muscadine Bloodline March 6, 8 p.m. The band with two Billboard charting critically acclaimed EP’s performs. Jordan Fletcher also performs. Doors open at 6 p.m. $15 advanced, $20 at-door; dulinghall.ticketfly.com.

• Newscast March 14, 8 p.m. Jackson natives Hayden Boyd and Salar Almakky perform. Lo Noom and Pink Palaces also perform. Doors open at 6 p.m. $10 general admission, $8 for students; dulinghall.ticketfly.com.

• Take Five • Celebrating Dave Brubeck Centennial March 16, 7:30-9:30 p.m. The Sam Bruton Quartet performs a tribute to jazz composer Dave Brubeck. The quartet is comprised of pianist Sam Bruton, saxophonist Larry Panella, bassist David Pellow and percussionist Peter Wehner. Sponsored by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Mississippi. Funded in parts by the Mississippi Arts Commission and the National Endowment for the Arts. $25 advanced, $30 at-door; call 601-960-2300; email info@msopera.org; msopera.org.

• Yonder Mountain String Band March 25, 7:30 p.m. The Colorado-based progressive bluegrass outfit performs. Doors open at 6.30 p.m. $25 advanced, $30 at-door; call 601-292-7121.

• Ghost Light March 26, 7:30 p.m. The band known for its penchant for improvisation performs. Doors open at 6.30 p.m. $15 general admission; dulinghall.ticketfly.com.

and the driving force of Beethoven’s 9th Symphony. The box office will reopen one hour prior to the concert’s start. $27-74 adult, $5 student/ children ages 4-18; call 601-960-1565; email rroberts@msorchestra.com; msorchestra.com.

The Templeton Ragtime and Music Festival begins 6 p.m. at McComas Hall Auditorium (222 North St.). The 14th annual festival comprises a blend of major concerts, mini-concerts, seminars, and tours of the Templeton Music Museum. The Gatsby Gala includes a 1920s-inspired fashion show and reception. The event also features screenings of the Charlie Chaplin 1916 silent film “One AM” and the 1927 Monty Banks film, “Chasing Choo Choos,” a seminar by Jerron “Blind Boy” Paxton on “Rural Black MUTUAL FILM CORPORATION Folk Music,” and performances by Paxton, Bill Edwards, Stephanie Trick, Paolo Alderighi and Jeff Barnhart. Free admission; call 601-576-6998; email cgoodwin@mdah.ms.gov; mdah.ms.gov.

• Daniel Romano March 13, 10 p.m. The writer, producer and rock ‘n’ roll artist performs as part of his USA-tour. Doors open 9 p.m. Ages 18+. Admissions TBA; call 601-354-9712.

Old School Hip Hop Reunion Feb. 22, 7 p.m., at Mississippi Coliseum (1207 Mississippi St.).

Hip-hop artists Human Beat Box Doug E. Fresh, Juvenile, 8Ball & MJG, Trina, Mystikal and Jackson-based Reese & Bigalow perform. $45-$75 tickets; call 678-322-8098.

Events at Thalia Mara Hall (201 E. Pascagoula St.) • Bravo IV - Best and Brightest Feb. 22, 7:309:30 p.m. Beethoven’s 5th piano concerto, revolutionary in its day and popularly known as “The Emperor,” is a virtuoso showcase for international pianist and acclaimed Beethoven interpreter, Anton Nel. Dvorak’s inviting 8th Symphony ends the evening on a sparkling bright note. $27-74 adult, $5 student/children ages 4-18; call 601-960-1565; email rroberts@ msorchestra.com; msorchestra.com.

• Bravo V - Ode to Joy March 28, 7:30-9:30 p.m. Mississippi Symphony Orchestra wraps up the diamond anniversary Bravo Series with a performance by four national soloists and four local choirs, totaling more than 200 voices onstage. Includes Arvo Part’s minimalist “Fratres”

its annual spring concert, showcasing partsongs of Franz Schubert, a mass setting with organ of Franz Liszt and Glee Club favorites. The Mississippi Boychoir performs alongside the adult choir. The Metro Male Chorus performs in Natchez on March 14 in a concert benefiting the Friends of Margaret Martin. Free admission; call 601-956-5788; find it on Facebook.

Chamber IV - Concert in the Chapel April 4, 7:30-9:30 p.m., at Tougaloo College - Woodworth Chapel (848 North St., Suite 106).

Mississippi Symphony Orchestra holds a performance in the chapel, allowing natural ambiance and acoustics to enhance the concert. Includes arrangements of Stravinksy, Ravel and Beethoven in a program that showcases the MSO String Quartet, MSO clarinetist Ken Graves and guest soprano Viola Dacus. $23 adult, $5 student/ children ages 4-18; call 601-960-1565; email rroberts@msorchestra.com; msorchestra.com.

Pepsi Pops - A Blast in the Park May 8, 5:30-10 p.m., at Old Trace Park - The Rez (Ross Barnett Reservoir, Ridgeland). The 39th-annual all-ages event combines the beautiful view of bobbing boats and a spring sunset with the charming sounds of pops, patriotic and screen and onstage favorites. Also features food trucks, face painting more EVENTS, p 22

February 19 - March 3, 2020 • jfp.ms

HOLIDAY Krewe De Roux Festival Feb. 21, 5 p.m.-Feb. 22, 4 p.m., at Brandon Amphitheater (8190 Rock Way, Brandon). Leadership Rankin class of 2020 and Rankin Youth Leadership hosts the second annual Mardi Gras festival that includes a parade, a block party, a gumbo cook off, a kid zone, food trucks, adult drinks, live music and interactive games/ activities for all ages. All of the proceeds raised is for the youth of Rankin County.

Free admission; call 601-724-2726; find it on Facebook.

“Off the Couch 2” Spring Tour. Doors open at 6 p.m. Minors under 18 must be accompanied by a guardian to enter. Seating is first-come, first-serve for general admission. Persons under 21 must pay $5 upcharge. VIP/Meet and Greet ticket sales end 3/25/2020. $30, $40 VIP/ Meet and Greet; call 601-292-7121; dulinghall. ticketfly.com.

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Community // Concerts // Exhibits // Food // Galleries // Holiday // Kids // Literary // Sports // Stage // Visit JFPEVENTS.COM for more. and fireworks. Parking passes may be purchased for $30. No glass or alcohol allowed in the park. $15 advance, $20 at-gate, $5 students/children (ages 4-18); call 601-960-1565; email rroberts@ msorchestra.com; msorchestra.com.

LITERARY SIGNINGS Events at Lemuria Bookstore (4465 I-55 N.) • “Murder in McComb” Book Signing Feb. 20, 5 p.m. Trent Brown signs copies of his book.

Reading begins 5:30 p.m. $34.95 signed copy, free reading; lemuriabooks.com.

• “The Life and Legacy of B.B. King” Book Signing March 6, 5 p.m. Diane Williams signs copies of her book. Free reading at 5.30p.m. $23.99 signed copy; lemuriabooks.com.

• “The Everlasting” Book Signing March 31, 5 p.m. Katy Simpson Smith signs copies of her book. Free reading starts by 5.30 p.m. $28.99 signed copy, free reading; lemuriabooks.com.

• “Writers and Lovers” Book Signing April 2, 5 p.m. Lily King signs copies of her book. Free reading by 5.30 p.m. $27 signed copy, free reading; call 601-366-7619; lemuriabooks.com.

• “The Shadow System” Book Signing April 22, 5 p.m. Sylvia A. Harvey signs copies of her book. Free reading starts 5.30 p.m. $28 signed copy, free reading; lemuriabooks.com.

• “Tombstone” Book Signing May 1, 5 p.m.

Tom Clavin signs copies of his book. Free reading starts 5.30 p.m. $29.99 signed copy, free reading; call 601-366-7619; lemuriabooks.com.

Bad Apple Series Book Signing Feb. 29, 3-5 p.m., at Jackson Medical Mall Thad Cochran Center (350 W. Woodrow Wilson Ave.). Ebony Palmer signs copies of her books, “Bad Apple: Falling into Bad Habits” and “Bad Apple: Spring has Sprung”. Register at tiny.cc/badapple. Book prices may vary; call 601-982-8467.

CREATIVE CLASSES

February 19 - March 3, 2020 • jfp.ms

Events at New Stage Theatre (1100 Carlisle St.)

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• Monday Night Live: Acting with John Maxwell Feb. 24, March 2, March 9, March 16, 6-8 p.m., at New Stage Theatre (1100 Carlisle St.).

Through monologues and some scene work, this class explores the challenges for every actor in “growing through a role” rather than “finding a role.” $200 for four-week class; call 601-9483533, ext. 236; email education@newstagetheatre.com; newstagetheatre.com.

• Monday Night Live: Voiceover Class with Keri Horn March 30, April 6, April 13, April 20, 6-7:30 p.m. Keri Horn instructs students on vocal techniques, warm-up exercises, microphone etiquette, how to approach the copy (the script), different avenues of Voice Over to explore, where (and where not) to go while seeking jobs and more. $175 for four week class; call 601-948-3533, ext. 236; email education@ newstagetheatre.com; newstagetheatre.com.

by Nate Schumann eflecting on springtime brings mental imagery of green tours so that guests can look through its research labs. “A lot of pastures filled with flowers and wildlife. Yes, spring is the people may not be aware that we are not just a public museum— season we often remember nature, and the Mississippi we are a research facility,” Smith says. The Endangered Species Museum of Natural Science provides a celebration of na- Management Plan for the state of Mississippi comes from the ture each year through its annual event, NatureFEST. The event, museum, and guests can see its various labs, such as the fossil lab typically held the first Saturday of April, serves as an open house with the museum’s paleontologists, or the back room where the of sorts as well as a celebration of the anniversary of the museum museum’s ichthyologists study different fish species. relocating to LeFleur’s Bluff State Park.

The museum will also host on-site bioblips, which are

“I kind of think of Natureguided hikes with our experts that FEST as a Jackson tradition,” says allow guests to learn more about Nicole Smith, event planner and the species that live right here in naturalist for the museum. The Jackson, everything from trees to 2020 event incidentally marks local mammals and birds. the nature festival’s 20th iteration.

Other exhibitors are being fiThe museum plans on having nalized, but they will offer various a birthday-themed surprise for activities for both children and guests for the occasion on top of adults. For example, the Jackson its regular goings-on.

Zoo will bring its usual “recycle

Freedom Ranch Wildlife relay” activity, and the museum Outreach Group serves as this will hold “fossil piles,” where visiyear’s special animal presenter. tors can dig for fossils to keep.

“They do incredible wildlife edu Door prizes will be awarded cation, and they’re bringing some throughout the day, and food of their birds of prey and other Snake expert Terry Vandeventer will host live reptile trucks will also be available. shows again at this year’s NatureFEST. animals so that guests can have an “Whether you are an adult who up-close experience,” Smith says. wants to learn a little bit more

The organization will be having shows throughout the day about what your state is doing or you are a child who just loves so that visitors have multiple opportunities to see their trained nature in general and wants to have a good day with your famanimals. ily, NatureFEST truly has something for everybody,” Smith says.

Snake expert Terry Vandeventer will also be present hold- NatureFEST is April 4 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Missising live reptile shows. “Nobody knows more about snakes than sippi Museum of Science (2148 Riverside Drive). Admission is $6 Terry. He is the man,” Smith says. for adults, $5 for seniors, $4 for children, and kids 3 and under are

Additionally, the museum will be hosting behind-the-scenes admitted for free. To learn more, mdwfp.com/museum.

R

courtesy MS Museum of Natural Science

• “Why We Dream” Book Signing Feb. 27, 5 p.m. Alice Robb signs copies of her book. Reading begins at 5:30 p.m. $15.99 signed copy, free book reading; lemuriabooks.com.

NatureFEST 2020

Shut Up and Create! Workshop March 21, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., at Jackson Free Press (125 S. Congress St., Suite 1324). JFP EditorDonna Ladd hosts the collaborative creativity workshop for writers and other people who have a desire to create in any medium or to simply figure out how to move their artistic desires forward and find a creative outlet. Features white-board brainstorming, free writing, mini-sculpturing and collaging, as well as a “show or read” segment where participants are free to share their works. Includes a continental breakfast, lunch from Broad Street, snacks and beverages, as well as materials. Limited space. $250 class is halfprice ($125) until March 1 for remaining spots; call 601-966-0834 to register, or email class@ writingtochange.com; writingtochange.com.

ARTS & EXHIBITS Danny Simmons Art Exhibit Feb. 19-21, Feb. 24-28, March 2-6, March 9-11, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., at Johnson Hall Art Gallery (1400 J.R. Lynch St.). Jackson State University presents the unveiling of the collection of neo-African abstract

expressionism. Free admission; call 601-9790879; email shonda.c.mccarthy@jsums.edu.

Events at Arts Center of Mississippi (201 E. Pascagoula St.) • Mississippi Proud: Black History Art Exhibit Feb. 19-22, Feb. 24-29, March 2-7, March 9, 10 p.m. The arts center presents an exhibit that depicts young Mississippians who are making their marks in African American history. Free admission; call 601-960-1537.

• “How We Fly” Art Show Feb. 22, 4-7 p.m.

The art show presents works by Sabrina Howard, Adrienne Domnick and Talamieka Brice.

An artist talk panel begins 5 p.m. Admission TBA; call 601-960-1537; howwefly.com.

Events at Mississippi Museum of Art (380 S. Lamar St.) • Under the Winter Sky: Watercolors by William R. Hollingsworth, Jr. Feb. 19-23, Feb. 25-29, March 1, 11 a.m. Trustmark Grand Hall displays the collection of Jackson artist, William R. Hollingsworth, Jr. The exhibition features fourteen watercolors, which share the theme of having been painted in the winter months of the

last few years of the painter’s short life (19101944). Free admission; call 601-960-1515; msmuseumart.org.

• Museum After Hours | Black Art Now Feb. 20, 5:30-8 p.m. Mississippi Museum of Art and Downtown Jackson Partners celebrate Black History Month with a pop-up exhibition featuring photographs by Justin Hardiman, live music by local music producers, live painting by Sabrina Howard, a fun game of Mississippi Card Revoked centered around the state’s history and a meet-and-greet with black business owners.

Free admission, food and drink prices vary; call 601-960-1515; find it on Facebook.

“Alchemy” Exhibit Feb. 27, 6-8 p.m., Feb. 28-29, March 1, March 15, 1-5 p.m., at The Cedars (4145 Old Canton Road). The Fondren Renaissance Society holds the “Alchemy” exhibit at The Cedars that features abstract works from 13 Mississippi-based artists, including Jackson resident Stephen Delatte. In addition to listed dates, viewings are available by appointment more EVENTS, p 22

Work by Stephen Delatte

A SEASON OF CLASSICS

Alchemy

abstract works

mschorus.org 601.278.3351

February 27 - March 15 Opening Reception: February 27, 6 p.m.

The Cedars 4145 Old Canton Road Presenting Sponsor

APRIL 3, 2020 TICKETS AVAILABLE MARCH 6TH Visit msmuseumart.org to purchase.

380 SOUTH LAMAR STREET • DOWNTOWN JACKSON • 601.960.1515

February 19 - March 3, 2020 • jfp.ms

2020 SPRING BENEFIT

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DREW DEMPSEY

Laeland, Ryan Warnick Take

MUSIC

by Aliyah Veal

T

he smell of coffee and pie immediately hits the senses when walking into the Urban Foxes, a coffee shop near downtown Jackson, on Jan. 16. Green walls and a tiger-themed chair tucked in the dining area’s corner grace the eyes. In the performance room, sitting on the adjacent wall, is acclaimed singer Nina Simone. She’s painted on a blue background shaped like the state of Mississippi.

It is the singer-songwriter showcase for Jackson Indie Music Week, a seven-day music festival that celebrates independent artists and the legacy of Mississippi being the birthplace of America’s music. “It’s a platform for independent artists to showcase their talent, an economic driver for the city and state, and it’s just where people can come and see the best Mississippi music,” Media Relations Director Rachel James-Terry says.

Bradley Davis, better known as Laeland, performs for an artist showcase during Jackson Indie Music Week.

‘Just Another Guy’ Bradley Davis is the first performer, and he has told only one of his college buddies about his secret life as singer Laeland. So when his classmates discover this article, they’ll be in for a surprise, he tells the Jackson Free Press.

A sophomore majoring in vocal performance, Laeland said in high school he was always known for his singing, so he enjoys just blending into the crowd at Tougaloo. “I’m just another guy, and I really like being treated like that. I really like the compartmentalization of I’m going to treat you like Bradley Davis, and I get over here, and I’m going to treat you like Laeland,” the singer-songwriter says.

COMMUNITY // CONCERTS // EXHIBITS // FOOD // GALLERIES // HOLIDAY // KIDS // LGBT // LITERARY // SPORTS // STAGE

from March 2-11. Free valet parking for society members on opening night. Sponsored by Origin Bank. Admission TBA; call 601-981-9606.

February 19 - March 3, 2020 • jfp.ms

PROFESSIONAL & BIZ

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MECA 2020 Conference Feb. 19, 2-5 p.m., Feb. 20, 7 a.m.-5 p.m., Feb. 21, 7 a.m.-noon, at Jackson Convention Complex (105 E Pascagoula St.). Mississippi Educational Computing Association provides for the sharing and exchanging of ideas, techniques, materials and procedures for all persons interested in technology in education including instructional applications, administrative applications and computer science education. $185 on-site; call 662-314-6322.

Women For Progress Lunch & Learn 2020 March 3, April 7, May 5, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., at Capitol Club Jackson (125 S. Congress St.).

Women For Progress of Mississippi hosts a talk every month on various topics with different speakers. Ticket includes a meal, beverage, dessert, tax and gratuity. $20 ticket; call 601-2596770; email mail@womenforprogress.net.

6th Annual Jackson Black Business Expo April 11, noon-5 p.m., at Jackson Convention Complex (105 E. Pascagoula St.). Jackson Black Pages & The City of Jackson hosts an annual expo event to showcase Black owned businesses in Mississippi. The event also includes mixers, seminars and a job fair. Vendors can reserve spots now at the Early Bird rate of $35 until Jan 20. $35 vendor registration fee; call 601-960-2321; find it on Facebook.

For the night, Bradley takes a backseat to Laeland, who is dressed in black and white, accented with red high-top Vans. He makes occasional visits to his laptop to play his music, with song after song showing a pattern of downbeat, melancholic sounds. It’s a genre of music he discovered while on YouTube, he says.

“The music and genre itself is (a) very lowfi, sub-genre of music. The lyricism has always been the trademark,” Laeland says. “I think that type of music and those type of lyrics really help relate and help us figure out this is how I feel. It’s sad, but it makes us feel better afterwards.”

He performs an unreleased cut, “Away From Today,” that has a bass- and pop-infused sound, but maintains cadences of sadness as the lyrics detail his doubts in himself.

As a songwriter, Laeland says he finds that he can relate more to the songs he writes.

“When I write music, and I write it for myself, then I have a story that goes behind it. Someone else singing would be their way of singing. It wouldn’t be my story,” he says.

As an independent artist, grassroots venues like Jackson Indie Music Week give artists a platform to perform and network where they wouldn’t be able to otherwise, Laeland says.

“The panels that they do, the showcases that they do, I think are extremely important for indie artists in particular because we are starting to become more popular now that the Internet is such a prevalent thing and you don’t need a major record label,” he says.

With one of his songs just shy of

Visit JFPEVENTS.COM for more.

The Art House (921 Cash Alley, Ocean Springs).

The gallery showcases a wide variety of art, pottery, jewelry and three-dimensional art from local artists in its seven rooms. Call 228-875-9285; oceanspringsartassociation.org.

Arts Center of Mississippi (201 E. Pascagoula St.). The Greater Jackson Arts Council features works from Mississippi artists. The space also houses the International Museum of Muslim Cultures. Call 601-960-1500.

The Attic Gallery (1101 Washington St., Vicksburg). The gallery specializes in southern contemporary art and fine crafts. Open Monday-Saturday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Call 601-638-9221; atticgallery.blogspot.com.

Brown’s Fine Art and Framing (630 Fondren Place). The gallery represents more than 30 Mississippi artists, including the late Walter Anderson. Open Monday-Saturday from 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Call 601-982-4844; brownsfineart.com.

Fischer Galleries (Dickies Building, 736 S. President St., fourth floor). The gallery features works from more than three-dozen artists and photographers. Call 601-291-9115; fischergalleries.com.

SATURDAY 2/29

GALLERIES & STUDIOS Afrikan Art Gallery and Gift Shop (800 N. Farish St.). The gallery sells a variety of sculptures, paintings, apparel, jewelry and books, and also serves as a venue for Afrocentric events. Call 601-979-1413 or 601-918-5075.

AND Gallery (133 Millsaps Ave.). The art gallery showcases the works from emerging contemporary artists from the Deep South. Call 601-351-5075; andgallery.com.

COURTESY APRIL EPPS

All About Eyes Makeup Class is from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Mississippi e-Center at JSU (1230 Raymond Road). In the Florida Room. April Epps, Best of Jackson 2020 winner for Best Facialist/Esthetician and Best Makeup Artist, leads the class that focuses on applying eye makeup. Lessons include in-depth brow, eyeshadow placement and blending, and eyeliner, mascara and lash techniques. $75 admission; areneemakeup.com.

Center Stage at Jackson Indie Music Week Showcase

Drew Dempsey

“Treehouse.” The Tupelo, Miss., native, who played in his church choir and learned songwriting through poetry, says he used songwriting to cope with the transition to Mississippi College.

‘Write The Story’ “Eventually, I was able to write a few songs that I

“You’ve got a friend in me, you’ve got a friend in liked and my friends were like, ‘dude, you’ve got to reme,” Ryan Warnick, the second and last performer of cord these songs.’ I got asked to play a bunch of events at Mississippi College for different organizations and just started playing live music and decided I wanted to record,” Warnick says.

He learned rhyme and meter from his middle-school and high-school English teachers, but there isn’t an exact formula to songwriting, he says.

“For me in writing my songs, I get to sing the words that I mean and write the story that I want to tell through the song that I get to perform, which I think there is value in every part of it,” the singersongwriter adds.

The musician is in his last year of college, majoring in interpersonal communiMusic artists Ryan Warnick and Eric Bergenon close JIMW’s showcase. cation and minoring in music, and it can be difficult to balance the night, sing, invoking a sense of nostalgia as flashes of school, an internship and making music, he says.

Woody and Buzz Lightyear come to mind. Warnick is “I try to write a song a week, right now that’s where strumming on his guitar while Eric Bergenon takes the I’m at. I try to practice guitar for about 30 minutes a keyboard. day,” Warnick says.

But as the tempo of Warnick’s guitar switches, But in his words, you make time for what you care the audience is immediately back in the present as he about and though he could quit school entirely, he finds performs “Friends,” a song from his 2019 debut album value in an undergraduate education.

Community // Concerts // Exhibits // Food // Galleries // Holiday // Kids // LGBT // Literary // Sports // Stage

Fondren Art Gallery (3242 N. State St.). See an eclectic mix of paintings, sculptures and local art, including owner Richard McKey’s artwork. Open Monday-Friday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Call 601-981-9222; fondrenartgallery.com.

Gallery1 (One University Place, 1100 John R. Lynch St., Suite 4). Open Monday-Friday from 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. and Saturday by appointment.

Call 960-9250; jsums.edu/gallery1arts.

Lewis Art Gallery and The Emerging Space at Millsaps College (1701 N. State St., third floor of the Ford Academic Complex). Open weekdays from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Call 601-974-1762; millsaps.edu.

Light and Glass Studio (523 Commerce St.) The studio features various Mississippi artists.

Call 601-942-7285; lightandglassstudio.com.

Mississippi Craft Center (950 Rice Road, Ridgeland). Featuring works from members of the Craftsmen’s Guild of Mississippi. The center offers craft demonstrations, classes, camps and other special events. Call 601-856-7546; craftsmensguildofms.org.

Mississippi Civil Rights Museum (222 North St.). The museum features eight galleries, including a variety of photos and artwork from African American artists, that focus on the period from 1945 to 1976. The museum also hosts other events. Open Tuesday-Saturday from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday from 1-5 p.m. Call 601-576-6800; mscivilrightsmuseum.com.

Mississippi Museum of Art (380 S. Lamar St.).

The museum features several ongoing displays at once, in addition to its monthly Museum After Hours pop-up events and rotating exhibitions. Open Tuesday-Saturday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday from noon-5 p.m. Call 601-960-1515; msmuseumart.org.

Municipal Art Gallery (839 N. State St.).

The gallery displays permanent art collections that date back to the 1940s and features semimonthly exhibitions from Mississippi artists.

Open Tuesday-Saturday from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Call 601-960-1582; jacksonms.gov.

North Midtown Arts Center (121 Millsaps Ave.) The DIY contemporary and modern-art gallery houses the studios of several Jackson cre-

Warnick says he started recording with Shelly Enn, owner of Crown Studios, in January 2019, after playing him some songs. What initially started out as a four song EP morphed into Treehouse, a 10-song album, with a little bit of fundraising and financial support from his grandparents, he says.

“I learned a lot about working with other people and the importance of mixing music, that the creation of a song isn’t just chord progression and the lyrics as I play it myself, but it’s every element that goes into making a track and the attention to detail,” the singersongwriter says.

As a first-timer to Jackson Indie Music Week, Warnick says he enjoys the intimacy it employs, giving him the opportunity to see the audience’s face and interact with them.

“Every show you get better and it’s an opportunity to play and it’s an opportunity to take your skills to the next level and your performance to the next level,” Warnick says of the week of music.

“This is an awesome platform for musicians to really share this art form they’re creating and also to express themselves with other people and connect with other people through it. That’s valuable,” Warnick says of Jackson Indie Music Week.

Brad “Kamikaze” Franklin founded the festival; this year’s January festival was the fifth.

“We’re pleased with the amount of turnout that we have, the talent that keeps growing, the diversity.

It’s a beautiful. We just want to keep doing for as long as everybody wants us here and wants it to happen,” James-Terry says.

Follow Culture Writer Aliyah Veal on Twitter at @AliyahJFP. Email story tips to aliyah@jacksonfreepress.com.

Visit JFPEVENTS.COM for more. atives. Gallery hours vary with exhibits. Open by appointment and for special events. Call 601-201-4769; madeinmidtownjxn.com.

Oddfellows Gallery (119 E. Front St., Hattiesburg). The gallery features three floors of art displays and also acts as an event venue. Open Thursday-Saturday from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Call 601-544-5777; oddfellowsgallery.com.

Pearl River Glass Studio (142 Millsaps Ave.).

Open from Monday-Friday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Call 601-353-2497; pearlriverglass.com.

Samuel Marshall Gore Galleries (Mississippi College, 199 Monroe St., Clinton). Includes student art exhibitions and a permanent collection.

Call 601-925-7770; art.mc.edu.

Sanaa Fine Art and Framing (The Quadrangle, 5846 Ridgewood Road, Suite C-212). The gallery sells fine art from various artists. Call 769218-8289; sanaagalleries.com.

Southside Gallery (150 Courthouse Square, Oxford). Open Monday-Saturday 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Sunday 1-5 p.m. Call 662-234-9090; southsideartgallery.com.

The Studio—Blaylock Photography (3017 N. State St.). The gallery and event venue features works from photographer Ron Blaylock. Call 601-506-6624; blaylockphoto.com.

View Gallery (Canton Mart Square, 1491 Canton Mart Road, Suite 7). Whit Geary owns the gallery, which holds works from more than 20 Mississippi artists. Open Monday-Friday from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. and Saturday from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Call 601-278-3991; viewgalleryart.com.

The Wolfe Studio (4308 Old Canton Road).

Features paintings, prints and colorful ceramics.

Open Monday-Saturday from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday from 1-5 p.m. Call 601-366-1844; thewolfestudio.com.

Wyatt Waters Gallery (307 Jefferson St., Clinton). Features watercolor paintings, prints, posters, calendars, books and cards. Open Tuesday-Saturday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Call 601-925-8115; find it on Facebook.

February 19 - March 3, 2020 • jfp.ms

2 million streams on Spotify and another song signed to Sony Music, the independent life is suiting Laeland just fine.

Check jfpevents.com for updates and more listings, or to add your own events online. You can also email event details to events@ jacksonfreepress.com to be added to the calendar. The deadline is noon the Wednesday prior to the week of publication. 25

courtesy silver and lace

2/19-3/3 Wednesday 2/19 Alumni House, Pearl - Gena Steele & Chris Link 10 p.m.

Char - Tommie Vaughn 6 p.m.

Kathryn’s - The Gator Trio 6:30 p.m.

Martin’s - Open Mic 9 p.m.

McB’s - T.J. Burnham 6:30 p.m.-9:30p.m.

Pelican Cove - Travelin Jane Duo 6 p.m.

Shucker’s - Sonny & Co. 7:30 p.m.

Table 100 - Andy Henderson 6 p.m.

Thursday 2/20 Cerami’s - Ron Sennett 6 p.m.

Char - Tommie Vaughn 6 p.m.

Duling Hall - The Red Clay Strays & Magnolia Bayou 6 p.m.

Drago’s - Chris Gill 6 p.m.-9 p.m.

Fenian’s - Chris Nash 9 p.m.

F. Jones Corner - Chris Minter & the KJ Funkmasters 11 p.m. $5 Genna Benna, Brandon - Casey Phillips 7 p.m.

Georgia Blue, Flowood - CandyLee Dobbs 7 p.m.

Georgia Blue, Madison - Brad Biard 7 p.m.

Kathryn’s - Scott Turner Trio 6:30 p.m.

Pelican Cove - Carlos Calabrese 6 p.m.

Shucker’s - Larry Brewer and Doug Hurd 7:30 p.m.

Table 100 - Andrew Pates 6 p.m.

February 19 - March 3, 2020 • jfp.ms

Friday 2/21

26

Alumni House, Pearl - Larry Brewer 10 p.m.

Ameristar Bottleneck Blues Bar, Vicksburg - Dr. Zarr’s Amazing Funk Monster 8 p.m.

Bar 3911 - DJ Taboo 8 p.m.-2 a.m.

Char - Ronnie Brown 6 p.m.

Drago’s - Ralph Miller 6 p.m.-9 p.m.

F. Jones Corner - The Blues Man 10 p.m. $5; TiffSarr Haywood midnight $10 Genna Benna, Brandon - Shaun Patterson 7 p.m.

Georgia Blue, Flowood - Dan Confait 7 p.m.

Georgia Blue, Madison - Scott Stricklin 7 p.m.

Kathryn’s - Faze 4 Dance Band 7 p.m.

Martin’s - Little Raine Band 10 p.m.

McB’s - Wayward Jones 5 p.m.-10 p.m.

Pelican Cove - Stace & Cassie 6

p.m.

Shucker’s - Chris Gill Trio 5:30 p.m.; Spunk Monkees 8 p.m. $5; Charade 10 p.m.

Table 100 - Tommie Vaughn 6 p.m.

Saturday 2/22 Ameristar Bottleneck Blues Bar, Vicksburg - Dr. Zarr’s Amazing Funk Monster 8 p.m.

Bar 3911 - Drag Performance & Dance Party feat. DJ Taboo 8 p.m.-3 a.m. free before 10 p.m.

Char - Bill Clark 6 p.m.

CS’s - Karaoke 8 p.m.

F. Jones Corner - Big Money Mel & Small Change Wayne 10 p.m. $5; Stevie J midnight $10 Genna Benna, Brandon - Aaron

See more music at jfp.ms/musiclistings.

To be included in print, email listings to Silver and Lace music@jacksonfreepress.com.

Pelican Cove - Buzz Trio 12-4 p.m.; Chris Gill 5 p.m.

Shucker’s - Steele Heart 3:30 p.m.

Table 100 - Raphael Semmes Trio 11 a.m.-2 p.m.; Dan Michael Colbert 6-9 p.m.

Wellington’s - Andy Hardwick 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Monday 2/24 Char - Tommie Vaughn 6 p.m.

Hal & Mal’s - CMBS presents Blue Monday 7 p.m. $5 Kathryn’s - Barry Leach 6:30 p.m.

Table 100 - Andrew Pates 6 p.m.

Tuesday 2/25 Char - Tommie Vaughn 6 p.m. courtesy Wynonna and Cactus

Table 100 - Andy Henderson 6 p.m.

Thursday 2/27 Char - Tommie Vaughn 6 p.m.

Drago’s - Brandon Greer 6 p.m.-9 p.m.

Fenian’s - Chris Nash 9 p.m.

F. Jones Corner - Chris Minter & the KJ Funkmasters 11 p.m. $5 Genna Benna, Brandon - Brian Jones 7 p.m.

Georgia Blue, Flowood - Todd Smith 7 p.m.

Georgia Blue, Madison - Zach Bridges 7 p.m.

Iron Horse Grill - 19th Street Red 6 p.m.

Kathryn’s - The Soul Shakers 6:30 p.m.

Pelican Cove - Mississippi Moonlight 2 p.m.

Shucker’s - The Road Hogs 7:30 p.m.

Table 100 - Andrew Pates 6 p.m.

Friday 2/28

Wynonna and Cactus

Coker 7 p.m.

Georgia Blue, Flowood - Aaron Coker 7 p.m.

Georgia Blue, Madison - CandyLee Dobbs 7 p.m.

Kathryn’s - Travlin’ Jane 7 p.m.

Martin’s - The Grass is Dead 10 p.m.

McB’s - Trace Hunt 7.30 p.m. 11.30 p.m.

Pelican Cove - Chris & Rick 6 p.m.

Shucker’s - Topher Brown 3:30 p.m.; Spunk Monkees 8 p.m. $5; Todd Smith 10 p.m.

Table 100 - Tommie Vaughn 6 p.m.

Sunday 2/23 1908 Provisions - Knight Bruce 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Char - Big Easy Three 11 a.m.; Tommie Vaughn 6 p.m.

Iron Horse Grill - Tiger Rogers 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Kathryn’s - Soulstew 6 p.m.

Drago’s - Chris Gill & the Soul Shakers 5:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m.

Fenian’s - Open Mic 9 p.m.

Kathryn’s - Johnny Crocker 6:30 p.m.

Shucker’s - Keys vs Strings 3:30 p.m.; Mississippi Moonlight 8 p.m.

Table 100 - Chalmers Davis 6 p.m.

Wednesday 2/26 Alumni House, Pearl - Gena & David Steele 10 p.m.

Char - Tommie Vaughn 6 p.m.

Fitzgerald’s - Travelin Jane Duo 7 p.m.-11 p.m.

Kathryn’s - Larry Brewer & Doug Hurd 6:30 p.m.

Martin’s - Open Mic 9 p.m.

McB’s - Phillip Yarbrough 6:30 p.m. -9:30 p.m.

Pelican Cove - Phil Yarborough 6:30 p.m.

Shucker’s - Sonny & Co. 7:30 p.m.

Ameristar Bottleneck Blues Bar, Vicksburg - Unfazed 8 p.m.

Bar 3911 - DJ Taboo 8 p.m.-2 a.m.

Char - Ronnie Brown 6 p.m.

Drago’s - Hunter Chappell 6 p.m.-9 p.m.

F. Jones Corner - The Blues Man 10 p.m. $5; Sherman Lee Dillon & The MS Sound midnight $10 Genna Benna, Brandon - Scott Stricklin 7 p.m.

Georgia Blue, Flowood - Brandon Greer 7 p.m.

Georgia Blue, Madison - Dan Confait 7 p.m.

Kathryn’s - Acoustic Crossroads 7 p.m.

Martin’s - Ally Venable Band 10 p.m.

McB’s - Angela Pittman Unfinished Business 7.30 p.m.-11 .30p.m.

Pelican Cove - Larry Brewer, Hunter Gibson & Doug Hurd 6 p.m.

Shucker’s - Charade 5:30 p.m.; Hunter Gibson & the Gators 8 p.m. $5; Chad Perry 10 p.m. $5 Table 100 - Tommie Vaughn 6 p.m.

Saturday 2/29 Alumni House, Pearl - Pearl Jamz 10 p.m.

Char - Bill Clark 6 p.m.

CS’s - Karaoke 8 p.m.

F. Jones Corner - Big Money Mel & Small Change Wayne 10 p.m.

$5; Sherman Lee Dillon & the MS Sound midnight $10 Genna Benna, Brandon - Brandon Greer 7 p.m.

Georgia Blue, Flowood - TBA 7 p.m.

Georgia Blue, Madison - TBA 7 p.m.

Kathryn’s - Jay Wadsworth and the Round Up Band 7 p.m.

Martin’s - Deltaphonic 10 p.m.

Pelican Cove - Silver & Lace 6 p.m.

Shucker’s - Acoustic Crossroads 3:30 p.m.; Hunter Gibson & the Gators 8 p.m. $5; Brian Jones 10 p.m. $5 Table 100 - Tommie Vaughn 6 p.m.

WonderLust - Drag Performance & Dance Party feat. DJ Taboo 8 p.m.-3 a.m. free before 10 p.m.

Sunday 3/1 1908 Provisions - Knight Bruce 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Char - Big Easy Three 11 a.m.; Tommie Vaughn 6 p.m.

Iron Horse Grill - Tiger Rogers 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Kathryn’s - Chris Link Trio 6 p.m.

Pelican Cove - Event: Gina and Buzz noon-4 p.m.; V Twin 5-9 p.m.

Shucker’s - Live Music 3:30 p.m.

Table 100 - Raphael Semmes Trio 11 a.m.-2 p.m.; Dan Michael Colbert 6-9 p.m.

Wellington’s - Andy Hardwick 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Monday 3/2 Char - Tommie Vaughn 6 p.m.

Hal & Mal’s - Central MS Blues Society 7 p.m. $5 Kathryn’s - Joseph LaSalla 6:30 p.m.

Pelican Cove - Barnes & Cokely 6-10 p.m.

Table 100 - Andrew Pates 6 p.m.

Tuesday 3/3 Char - Tommie Vaughn 6 p.m.

Duling Hall - Lucero 7:30 p.m.

Fenian’s - Open Mic 9 p.m.

Hal and Mal’s - Raphael Semmes and friends 6:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m.

Kathryn’s - Scott Stricklin and Brian Smith 6:30 p.m.9:30 p.m.

Pelican Cove - Jesse Howell 6-10 p.m.

Table 100 - Chalmers Davis 6 p.m.

Offsite & Onsite CATERING AVAILABLE

Going Keto?

Music/Events Wednesday 2/19

Restaurant Open Happy Hour Mon-Fri 4-7pm! $5 Margaritas, $5 Mezcalitas, $3 Patron Shots $1 off all beer

Tuesday

WRITE ABOUT IT!

The Jackson Free Press is seeking freelance writers to write insightful, informative and creative food and dining articles.

Taco Tuesay $2 Tacos All Day (Excludes shrimp and fish tacos)

Thursday 2/20

Jason Turner Band Dining Room - 7:00pm - Free

Friday 2/21

Bill, Temperance & Jeff Dining Room - 7:00pm - Free

Saturday 2/22

Kent Morris Red Room - 7:00pm

Monday 2/24 Central MS Blues Society presents:

Friday $2 off Shrimp and Fish Tacos

Sat-Sun Endless Mimosas $15 $6 Bloody Mary’s & Micheladas

Blue Monday Dining Room - 7 - 11pm

$3 Members $5 Non-Members

Tuesday 2/25

Dinner Drinks & Jazz with Raphael Semmes and Friends Dining Room - 6pm

Wednesday 2/26

New Bourbon Street Jazz Band Dining Room - 7:00pm - Free

Thursday 2/27

D’lo Trio Dining Room - 7:00pm - Free

Friday 2/28

The Rock Project Red Room - Doors 7:00pm - Show 8pm Tickets $15 Online, $20 at the door

Lovett Brothers Dining Room - 7:00pm - Free

Saturday 2/29

Bob Marston Dining Room - 7:00pm - Free

Monday 3/2

Central MS Blues Society presents:

Blue Monday Dining Room - 7 - 11pm $3 Members $5 Non-Members

Tuesday 3/3

Dinner Drinks & Jazz with Raphael Semmes and Friends Dining Room - 6pmww

Upcoming

3/6 Legendary John Corabi 5/1 The Lacs We’re now on Waitr!

Please send your resume, writing samples and specific story ideas to:

nate@jacksonfreepress.com

2820 N State St (601) 487-6082 greenghosttacos.com

visit halandmals.com for a full menu and concert schedule 601.948.0888

200 s. Commerce St.

February 19 - March 3, 2020 • jfp.ms

From pork rinds to smoked meats we’ve got you covered.

LOVE FOOD?

DAILY BLUE PLACE SPECIALS

27

51 Mop & ___ (floor cleaner brand) 52 French possessive meaning “your” 54 Contribute 55 Thailand, formerly 57 “Inconceivable!”

59 “Cool, man” 61 TV host with a “Neighborhood of Make-Believe” (where the starts of the theme answers were found) 64 Letterman rival, once 65 Meditation teachers 66 “Language” of “haxored” and “pwn’d” 67 Agitated state 68 Word before or after break 69 Airport data, for short

BY MATT JONES

Down

“In the Neighborhood” --along with the owl and the pussycat.

Across

1 Biblical fratricide victim 5 Ragged peak 9 Passing lines 13 “3 Feet High and Rising” group ___ Soul 14 Pick up 16 Controversial director Riefenstahl 17 Current U.S. Secretary of Transportation 19 Cheap bar 20 Calico pony 21 Vaccination 23 Patch of grass

24 Holiday in Hanoi 25 Suffix for novel 28 In a genial manner 30 1992 song by The Cure that goes through the week 33 Airline from Stockholm 34 Likely 35 Fanning of “Maleficent” 36 Magazine for teens since 1965 40 “___ Is Us” 42 Charged-up particle 43 Settings for med. dramas 46 Thought experiment featured in an episode of “The Good Place” 50 Meat dish with a filling

1 Not so klutzy 2 Philosophy 3 2019 Hyundai model 4 CafÈ au ___ 5 A.L. Central team, on a scoreboard 6 Tape deck button 7 Oohs’ followers 8 S’mores flavor component 9 Antiquarian 10 Diamond game, in Santo Domingo 11 Make use of 12 Create a colorful T-shirt 15 Swedish actress Rapace of the “Millennium” series 18 Domino’s ad character, once 22 ___ pedis (athlete’s foot) 26 ___ paneer (Indian spinach dish) 27 Do some keyboarding 29 2008 Verizon acquisition that once had naming rights to Jacksonville’s stadium 31 “And ___ don’t know what’s going on!”

32 “Let ___!” (“Go ahead”) 37 Cuba y Puerto Rico, por ejemplo 38 “Star Trek” collective

Atalaya Laya

92 points - James Suckling $15.69

February 19 - March 3, 2020 • jfp.ms

The grapes in this red blend are grown at around 1,000 meters above sea level in the semi-arid region of Almansa, Spain. The well-drained limestone soil and the climate result in very low yields, intense colors, aromatic richness, and concentrated flavors.

28

Aromas and flavors of blackberry jam, blueberries, and red cherries are interwoven with hints of sage and dried black tea. A whitepepper minerality adds lift with tart plum-fruit accents as flavors of licorice add depth to this very complex value.

921 East Fortification Street (601) 983-5287 www.katswine.com/tasting-team @KatsWine

39 Compound with a double bond 40 Walked on 41 Harry who died on Halloween 44 Amplify a certain message 45 Spoke ill of 46 Hiker’s routes 47 Inform 48 ___ the Pig (2019) 49 “With or Without You” singer 53 Complex orgs.

56 Prefix with byte or hertz 58 Stare at in a gross manner 60 “I ___ You Babe” 62 Talk smack about

63 Q-U filler ©2019 Jonesin’ Crosswords (jonesincrosswords@gmail.com)

Last Week’s Answers

For answers to this puzzle, call: 1-900226-2800, 99 cents per minute. Must be 18+. Or to bill to your credit card, call: 1-800 655-6548. Reference puzzle #926

Editor’s Note: Psycho Sudoku by Matt Jones has been discontinued.

ARIES (March 21-April 19):

Do you feel ready to change your mind about an idea or belief or theory that has been losing its usefulness? Would you consider changing your relationship with a once-powerful influence that is becoming less crucial to your life-long goals?

Is it possible you have outgrown one of your heroes or teachers? Do you wonder if maybe it’s time for you to put less faith in a certain sacred cow or overvalued idol? According to my analysis of your astrological omens, you’ll benefit from meditating on these questions during the coming weeks.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20):

When she was alive more than 2,500 years ago, the Greek poet Sappho was so famous for her lyrical creations that people referred to her as “The Poetess” and the “Tenth Muse.” (In Greek mythology, there were nine muses, all goddesses.) She was a prolific writer who produced over 10,000 lines of verse, and even today she remains one of the world’s most celebrated poets. I propose that we make her your inspirational role model for the coming months. In my view, you’re poised to generate a wealth of enduring beauty in your own chosen sphere. Proposed experiment: Regard your daily life as an art project.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20):

Have you ever dropped out of the daily grind for a few hours or even a few days so as to compose a master plan for your life? The coming weeks will be an excellent time to give yourself that necessary luxury. According to my analysis, you’re entering a phase when you’ll generate good fortune for yourself if you think deep thoughts about how to create your future. What would you like the story of your life to be on March 1, 2025? How about March 1, 2030? And March 1, 2035? I encourage you to consult your soul’s code and formulate an inspired, invigorating blueprint for the coming years. Write it down!

CANCER (June 21-July 22):

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22):

Who loves you best, Leo? Which of your allies and loved ones come closest to seeing you and appreciating you for who you really are? Of all the people in your life, which have done most to help you become the soulful star you want to be? Are there gem-like characters on the peripheries of your world that you would like to draw nearer? Are there energy drains that you’ve allowed to play too prominent a role? I hope you’ll meditate on questions like these in the coming weeks. You’re in a phase when you can access a wealth of useful insights and revelations about how to skillfully manage your relationships. It’s also a good time to reward and nurture those allies who have given you so much.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22):

Doom and gloom dominate the forecasts made by many prophets. They experience perverse glee in predicting, for example, that all the rain forests and rivers will be owned by greedy corporations by 2050, or that extraterrestrial invaders who resemble crocodiles will take control of the U.S. government “for the good of the American people,” or that climate change will eventually render chocolate

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22):

I don’t require everyone I learn from to be an impeccable saint. If I vowed to draw inspiration only from those people who flawlessly embody every one of my ethical principles, there’d be no one to be inspired by. Even one of my greatest heroes, Martin Luther King Jr., cheated on his wife and plagiarized parts of his doctoral dissertation. Where do you stand on this issue, Libra? I bet you will soon be tested. How much imperfection is acceptable to you?

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21):

Scorpio comedian John Cleese co-founded the troupe Monty Python more than fifty years ago, and he has been generating imaginative humor ever since. I suggest we call on his counsel as you enter the most creative phase of your astrological cycle. “This is the extraordinary thing about creativity,” he says. “If you just keep your mind resting against the subject in a friendly but persistent way, sooner or later you will get a reward from your unconscious.” Here’s another one of Cleese’s insights that will serve you well: “The most creative people have learned to tolerate the slight discomfort of indecision for much longer, and so, just because they put in more pondering time, their solutions are more creative.”

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21):

Sagittarian philosopher Baruch Spinoza (1632–1677) developed a vigorous and expansive vision. That’s why he became a leading intellectual influence in the era known as the Enlightenment. But because of his inventive, sometimes controversial ideas, he was shunned by his fellow Jews and had his books listed on the Catholic Church’s Index of Forbidden Books. Understandably, he sometimes felt isolated. To compensate, he spent lots of time alone taking wide-ranging journeys in his imagination. Even if you have all the friends and social stimulation you need, I hope you will follow his lead in the coming weeks—by taking wide-ranging journeys in your imagination. It’s time to roam and ramble in inner realms.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19):

“Absolute reason expired at eleven o’clock last night,” one character tells another in Henrik Ibsen’s play Peer Gynt. I’m happy to report that a different development is on the verge of occurring for you, Capricorn. In recent days, there may have been less than an ideal amount of reason and logic circulating in your world. But that situation will soon change.

The imminent outbreak of good sense, rigorous sanity, and practical wisdom will be quite tonic. Take advantage of this upcoming grace period. Initiate bold actions that are wellgrounded in objective rather than subjective truth.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18):

Renowned Aquarian composer Franz Schubert (1797–1828) created more than 700 compositions, some of which are still played by modern musicians. Many of his works were written on and for the piano—and yet he was so poor that he never owned a piano. If there has been a similar situation in your life, Aquarius—a lack of some crucial tool or support due to financial issues—I see the coming weeks as being an excellent time to set in motion the plans that will enable you to overcome and cure that problem.

Homework: I declare you champion, unvanquishable hero, and title-holder of triumphant glory. Do you accept? FreeWillAstrology.com

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Cancerian novelist William Makepeace Thackeray (1819–1875) is famous for Vanity Fair, a satirical panorama of 19th-century British society. The phrase “Vanity Fair” had been previously used, though with different meanings, in the Bible’s book of Ecclesiastes, as well as in works by John Bunyan and St. Augustine. Thackeray was lying in bed near sleep one night when the idea flew into his head to use it for his own story.

He was so thrilled, he leaped up and ran around his room chanting “Vanity Fair! Vanity Fair!” I’m foreseeing at least one epiphany like this for you in the coming weeks, Cancerian.

What area of your life needs a burst of delicious inspiration?

and bananas obsolete. That’s not how I operate. I deplore the idea that it’s only the nasty prognostications that are interesting. In that spirit, I make the following forecasts: The number of homeless Virgos will decrease dramatically in the near future, as will the number of dreamhome-less Virgos. In fact, I expect you folks will experience extra amounts of domestic bliss in the coming months. You may feel more at home in the world than ever before.

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In 1908, British playwright W. Somerset Maugham reached the height of success. Four of his plays were being performed concurrently in four different London theaters. If you were ever in your life going to achieve anything near this level of overflowing popularity or attention, I suspect it would be this year. And if that’s a development you would enjoy and thrive on, I think the coming weeks will be an excellent time to set your intention and take audacious measures.

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5 Things To Know about Seyma Bayram kristin brenemen

JFP City Reporter

1

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I was born in the Kurdish region of Turkey and grew up in The Netherlands and New York State, where I spent most of my adult life. Before moving to Jackson, I lived in New York City and Istanbul.

I hold a B.A. and M.A. in comparative literature from the State University of New York at Binghamton and an M.S. in journalism from the Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism.

Outside of work, I like to cook, play soccer, view and think about art and read poetry. I love the outdoors, and although I have not yet explored many areas in Mississippi outside of Jackson, I hope to change that soon.

English is technically my third language, but it is the one I know best.

I owe my fluency to the fact that I was very young when I came to the U.S., but also to a bit of luck. I enrolled in an elementary school without an English as a second language program. My classmates were halfway through reading Roald Dahl’s “George’s Marvellous Medicine” when I arrived. I had already read that book in Dutch and loved it. I quietly followed along until one day, the words suddenly made sense. Language acquisition experts now say that one of the most effective ways of supporting people in learning a new language is to expose them to the language with a translation of a book they’ve already read in a language they know.

Twitter, Instagram: @SeymaBayram0

2 3

I have worked several jobs across different industries, including times spent as a book editor and a high school teacher.

Journalism allows me to combine my interests in research, writing, policy, education and working with people on the ground.

In my position, I ask people questions, listen, read a lot, file public-records requests, attend public meetings—and try to translate all of this into coherent stories with the goal of sharing information with the public. What I enjoy most about my job is that I get to learn something new every day.

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The 2020 Hometown Hero & Sumitt Winners

HOMETOWN HEROES TRAVEL & TOURISM INDUSTRY: Linda Ross Jackson Downtown Convention Center Hotel Pierre Pryer Sr. The Iron Horse Grill Susan Branson Mississippi Children’s Museum

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Ashley Wicks Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

Limited Service Hotel of the Year: Residence Inn at the District of Eastover

Dr. Robert Luckett Association of African American Museums

APRIL 26, 2020

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Billie Burns Hilton Jackson

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ROBOTS TO DISCOVER HOW REAL ANIMALS WORK!

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Kenya Washington Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Mitchell Shears National Association of HBCU Title III Administrators, Inc. Reverend Samuel Boyd, Sr. African Methodist Episcopal Church Kevin T. Wilbert, Sr. Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Superintendent David Tipton United Pentecostal Church International

Restaurant of the Year: Estelle Wine Bar & Bistro

SHINING EXAMPLES Jakhia Gray, Miss Alcorn State University Sonic Boom of the South, Jackson State University

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Chief Willie Owens International Association of Black Professional Firefighters Johnny Mims Mississippi Association of Coaches

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