Mayor Yarber to announce his choice for Jackson's Chief of Police

117 Pages·2014·17.41 MB·English

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V . 20, N . 43 A 21 - 27, 2014 50¢
ol o ugust
What to look for in Mayor Yarber to announce his
dueling autopsies choice for Jackson’s Chief of Police
of Michael Brown Public forums veted two finalists for position
Post mortem by veteran medical
By Ayesha K. Mustafaa
examiner Michael Baden hired by Editor
Jackson’s Interim Police Chief
Brown family only the beginning Lee D. Vance and Canton’s Assis-
tant Chief of Police Juan Cloy were
presented at public forums through-
out Jackson, both vying for the top
cop position of Jackson.
Chief of Police Lindsey Horton
retired suddenly on July 21, 2014,
leaving only speculation that it was
because of his department coming
under fire following officers’ han-
dling of the late Ruth Helen Har-
rion’s 911 call on July 15.
Harrion was found dead in her
backyard 11 hours after her call to
911 and after officers came to her
Dr. Michael Baden points to an autopsy diagram during a press con-
ference at the Greater St. Marks Family Church August 18, 2014 in home and left without making con-
Ferguson, Mo., showing six bullet wounds to Michael Brown. AP PHOTO tact with her. At the time, Mayor Jackson’s Interim Police Chief Lee Vance, City Attorney Monica Joiner and Canton’s Assistant Police
Tony Yarber insisted that he did not
Chief Juan Cloy introduced at first public forum as JPD Chief candidates. PHOTO BY JAY JOHNSON
By A.C. Thompson
topsy the body by Brown’s fam- force Horton out.
ProPublica
ily, has released the preliminary Yarber explained why he was the next chief of police. explained in a written statement an-
Yarber
In the next few weeks, separate results of his autopsy. holding public forums before mak- “These forums support the trans- nouncing their times and locations.
Continued on page A3
teams of doctors will issue autop- Both the St. Louis County ing a decision on who he wants for parency of this process,” Yarber “We want the citizens of Jackson to
sy reports about Michael Brown, Medical Examiner and U.S. Jus-
the unarmed African American tice Department have announced
shot to death by a police officer in plans to conduct or commission Grand Opening ribbon cutting for local bakery
Ferguson, Mo. separate post mortems.
If history is any guide, they As a journalist, I’ve read rough-
will differ, perhaps sig- COMMENTARY ly 1,000 autopsy re- By Jackie Hampton
nificantly, on how to ports and spent much Publisher
interpret the gunshot wounds on
Attendees of the grand opening
his body.
and ribbon cutting of The Cookie
Michael Brown
Michael Baden, the veteran
Net, located at 1053 Pecan Park,
Continued on page A7
medical examiner chosen to au-
enjoyed samplings of a variety
of cookies, pies, and cinnamon
rolls on Friday, August 15, 2014.
Walmart executive Owners Calvin and Shirley Love
opened their doors and allowed
the public to enjoy their sweet
Joe Quinn to open the treats throughout the day at abso-
lutely no cost.
Vic Sexton, Senior Planner for
Connect 1 Conference the City of Jackson’s Small Busi-
ness Outreach for the Department
of Planning and Development,
on September 17 gave greetings and commended
City Counilman Charles Tillman (2nd from left) cuts ribbon for The Cookie Net grand opening. PHOTO BY
Calvin and Shirley Love for
JACKIE HAMPTON
their newly expanded business.
The couple, already a wholesale make purchases directly from ways said that small business is said if you look around the city
By Lonnie Ross
distributor of bakery goods, has The Cookie Net. the backbone of economic devel- there are more small businesses
Online Editor
now opened their doors to the Jackson City Councilman opment all over the U.S, all over than there are large businesses;
JACKSON – The global retail public. Whereas their red and Charles Tillman presented a cer- our cities, communities, and the referencing such larger busi-
giant, Walmart, has signed on as a white packaging of baked goods tificate commemorating the grand world.” Tillman thanked the cou-
sponsor of the Connect 1 Confer- have been purchased from other opening to the husband and wife ple for opening their business and
ence. The conference will be held outlets in the Jackson metro, resi- business owners and said, “Even said “I especially thank you for Grand opening
next month at the Jackson Conven- dents of the community can now President Barack Obama has al- opening it in Ward Five.” Tillman Continued on page A3
tion Complex in Jackson, Miss.,
on Wednesday, September 17, and
Thursday, September 18.
HBCU Digest’s Female President of the
Conference organizers are hop-
ing that more than 1,000 people, in-
cluding business owners, business
Year welcomes back JSU’s 10,000 enrollees
executives, consumers and students
from Mississippi and outside of the
Quinn
state; will register and attend the
event. Registration for the confer- in America from suppliers located By Stephanie R. Jones knew no one. I felt alone. But I was
ence is $75.00. This amount has in Mississippi and the rest of the Contributing Writer convinced personally that it was
been extended through August 31, country. Walmart is the largest re- Jackson State University offi- wisdom from above.”
but beginning September 1, the fee tail store in the United States, serv- cially kicked off its Fall semester, Calling her time at the 10,000 en-
will be $100.00. ing 140 million customers weekly Thursday, August 14, 2014, in its rollment university “breathtaking,”
The conference is an economic with more than 200 million trans- annual way. A packed Rose E. Mc- Meyers said she remains commit-
development networking event de- actions. From its start in a modest Coy auditorium was filled with ted to sustaining excellence of the
signed to match people and busi- building in Rogers, Ark., in 1962, a first-day-of-school atmosphere core product.
nesses to one another, including Walmart has grown to operate un- with familiar faces greeting one Meyers, HBCU Digest’s Female
entrepreneurs, home-based busi- der 69 banners in 27 countries. another and new faces being intro- President of the Year, talked about
nesses, new start-ups, established Joe Quinn, Senior Director of duced. some strides made at JSU such
businesses, minority contractors/ Walmart’s Public Affairs and Gov- There were lots of cheerleading as being recognized as a military
suppliers, prime contractors, major ernment Relations Department, will and pep talks by faculty, staff and friendly campus, an Apple Distin-
corporations, inventors/innova- be the keynote speaker at the 9:00 students, and an address by Dr. guished School and celebrating 100
tors, government agencies, educa- am “Getting Started” opening ses- Carolyn W. Meyers, JSU’s presi- years of football.
tional institutions, venture capital- sion on Wednesday, September 17. dent. The catchword of the day was Success depends on “place,” she
ists, bankers, investment bankers, He will also discuss doing business “excellence” during the opening of said. “Place matters. We have to
Jackson State University President Dr. Carolyn W. Meyers (R) greets
funders, media, and consumers. with Walmart. the two-day 2014 Fall Faculty and have places where people can do
dias member Dr. Rosella Houston, JSU Staff Senate President
A corporate executive from Quinn helps build national Staff Seminar. their best,” she said.
Thursday, August 14 at Rose E. McCoy Auditorium.
Walmart will be present to speak at Meyers, participating in her
the conference about its $250 bil- Connect 1 fourth seminar, reflected on her launching into the nuts and bolts of “I was scared to death,” Mey- JSU
lion initiative to buy products made Continued on page A4 beginnings at the university before her address. ers said. “I came to a place where I Continued on page A4
No, a soldier cop Murrah 2014 Commissioner Epps
Share this issue with a friend
on every corner graduate wins assumes leadership
by mailing it to:
e does not sound silver in national of second major
d
i
s
n great ACT-SO competition “correctional”
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organization
Page A12 Page A8 Page A4
COMMUNITY
A2 • the mississippi link August 21 - 27, 2014 www.mississippilink.com
I N M E M O R I A M
Lawrence Alexander Adams Sr.
March 28, 1950 - July 31, 2014
Lawrence Alexander Adams Sr. was
born March 28, 1950, in Natchez, Miss.,
to the late Rodgers and Minnie Adams.
He departed this life July 31, 2014.
At an early age, Adams united with
a church family at Daughters of Zion
Baptist Church in Natchez. There he
served on the usher board and on occa-
sion taught Sunday school.
He attended Clover Hill Elementary
and graduated from Sadie V. Thompson
High School in 1969. Later, he attended
Jackson State College where he played
football and met the love of his life.
After moving to Jackson, he contin-
ued his Christian journey serving as a
Sunday school teacher and superinten-
dant at Pearl St. AME Church.
He married Vera Williams in 1972, Adams
and their union was blessed with 42
years and three sons. Together, they Williams; one brother-in- law Richard
were faithful members of College Hill Robinson; and mother-in-law Salome
Baptist Church. He was a member of Williams.
the Layman’s Auxiliary and male cho- He leaves to cherish his memory his
rus. loving wife Vera Adams; three sons:
Adams was no stranger to hard work Donovan Adams (Edith Michelle), Law-
and after 34 years, he retired from Gen- rence Adams Jr. (Natasha), and Adrian
eral Motors Corporation. He was a Adams; five grandchildren: LeAnna
member of the IUE and also worked at Adams, Donovan Adams Jr., Jordan
Belk Department Store for many years. Adams, Miles Adams, and Gavin Ad-
He took pride in grilling and cooking ams; four god children: Chantel Hicks,
large meals for his family and always Jessica Smith, Amanda Smith, and
made sure the meal was blessed and en- LaShonda Kidd; four brothers: Ceasar
joyed. He loved sharing sports stories Adams, Nelson Dyson Jr. (Alice),
and highlights with his sons. Clarence Adams (Gloria), and Charles
Every holiday was brought to life Adams (Rita); four sisters: Annie Mae
by his hand-crafted yard displays and Swayze, Mary Thomas, Ruth Ann Rice
wreaths which he made sure were (Andrew), and Maranda Woods (Ar-
lit brightly for his grandchildren. He thur); four sisters-in-law: Augustine
would often be seen dressing up, mak- Adams, Jean Williams, Sharon Rob-
ing faces or funny sounds just to make inson, and Alois Williams (James);
a child smile. two brothers-in-law: Leroy Williams
Adams is preceded in death by four Jr., and Wesley Williams (Millicent);
brothers, Rogers Adams III, Roosevelt father-in-law Leroy Williams Sr., and
Williams, Dyson Williams, and James a host of nieces, nephews, other family
Williams; one sister-in-law Dorothy members and friends.
LOCAL
www.mississippilink.com AugusT 21 - 27, 2014 THE mississippi link • A3
Retired educator celebrates 97th birthday
The Mississippi Link Newswire
Rose Howard Robinson,
retired Vice President of Stu-
dent Affairs at Alabama State
University and author of “The
Forbidden Ceiling” (the story
of her life as a women pioneer
in higher education adminis-
tration), celebrated her 97th
birthday Sunday, August 17,
2014, at her home in west
Jackson.
Those celebrating included Family and friends come to celebrate: Daphne Higgins,
her family: son Neal How- Mary Meredith, Gina Robinson and Carol Garrett
ard Robinson and daughter
in law Zenotha Tate Robin-
son, grandchildren, and great
grandchildren.
Robinson’s 89-year-old
Three generations: Rose Robinson, daughter-in-law Zenotha
brother, Walter Howard, and Birthday honoree Rose Robinson with her brother Robinson, grandaughter Dawn Larry, son Neal Robinson,
her niece Lori Howard, trav- Walter grandson Jason Robinson, (not shown) Royce A. Cole,
eled from Greenville (their granddaughters
hometown) to celebrate with
her.
Robinson’s 91-year-old sis-
ter, Anita D. Smith (also of
Greenville), was unable to
travel to the celebration but
shared the moment by tele- Robinson poses with friends: Kathleen Feyen, Gevenee
phone and sent gifts. Feyen and Kathy Feyen.
Also in attendance were
friends that spanned several
generations, church members,
including two of her former
parish priests, who along with
the family, sang Happy Birth-
day in her honor.
A wonderful time was had
by all sharing stories and
memories. The day conclud-
ed with laughter as the family
stated they could now start
planning for next year, her
98th celebration. Rose enjoys company of church member Toya Ford John Higgins, god-son Peggy Orey, neighbor Robinson with neighbor Joyce Harris
Yarber
Continued from page 1
be aware of these candidates’ qualifi- LEE D. VANCE: State University in 2008 with a BA He lives in Jackson, although he SWAT assistant team leader. He the 2012 Invisible Giant Award for
cations, and we want the citizens to Immediately after Horton’s retire- degree in mass communications. He is currently the Assistant Chief of served as a JPD detective conducting Community Service and Mentor-
hear what each candidate’s vision is ment, Assistant Chief of Police Lee completed training at the Jackson Police for Canton, where he over- background investigations, narcotics ship; and the 2008 SWAT Competi-
for the city of Jackson.” Vance was named the interim chief Police Academy in 1987, becoming sees the day-to-day operations of the operations and other major crimes tion Award.
Questions that had been received as he was also called on when for- a certified law enforcement officer. police department. He is responsible investigations. He also was a patrol Mayor Yarber said he will an-
for the two candidates into the may- mer Chief of Police Rebecca Cole- He is a 1976 graduate of Lanier High for sworn and civilian personnel officer. nounce his choice for JPD Chief of
or’s office via email and phone calls man retired after the lost re-election School of Jackson. who serve as patrol officers, detec- He organized town hall forums in Police on Friday, August 22. It will
were presented by City Attorney of Mayor Harvey Johnson. His special training includes: tives and in internal affairs. Jackson under the theme, “Policing then go before the City Council for
Monica Joiner.. “Trends and Techniques in Internal Cloy is responsible for firearms Jackson, Problems and Solutions” approval.
The public forums were held Vance is a 27-year veteran of the Affairs” from Southern Police In- training, officer safety, officer de- and assisted with police promotions OTHER CITY BUSINESS:
Monday, August 18, at noon at Jackson Police Department. Along stitute, Dept. of Justice Administra- velopment and leadership training exams and assessments and inter- The final of the six mayoral “Lis-
the Smith Robertson Museum and with serving as interim and assis- tion, at the University of Louisville; and for the department’s budget and viewing for rank of sergeant. tening Tours” is Monday, August 25
again at 6:30 p.m. at the Westside tant chief of police, he has held the Citizen Complaint Intake and In- state/federal grants. Cloy collaborated with State Rep- at the Jackson Zoo, 2918 W. Capitol
Community Center. The third and following positions: commander of vestigation Issues, Managing Profil- Before becoming Canton’s as- resentatives Credell Calhoun, Walter St., 6-7 p.m. Topic is “West Jackson
well-attended forum was held Tues- Precinct 2, interim deputy chef of ing Issues, Use of Force Issues in a sistant chief of police, he served as Robinson and Alyce Clark to spon- and the Zoo.”
day, August 19, at 6:30 p.m. at New Support Services, commander of Community Policing Environment its interim chief of police for three sor a bill to fund public safety pay Wednesday, August 20 Yarbor re-
Hope Baptist Church’s Community Internal Affairs Division, police lieu- and Early Identification and Inter- months and responsible for all as- raises. He served as president of the leased his Fiscal Year 2015 city bud-
Life Center. tenant of Precinct 3, patrol sergeant vention Systems; the Emergency pects of policing and community Jackson Police Officers Association get, noting a 21.9 percent decrease
This time, Vance is making it very of Precinct 4, public information of- Responder for Nuclear, Biological relations. in 2005-2011 and as its vice presi- from the fiscal year 1013-14, in an
clear that he is biding for the top seat ficer, patrol officer of Precinct 3 and and Chemical Awareness. November 2012 – December dent in 2002-2005. effort to reduce the current deficit
permanently. And the public forums patrol officer of the Planning and JUAN CLOY: 2013, while serving in the Jackson He also has certification from and present a balanced budget.
gave Vance and Cloy opportunity to Research Unit. Cloy is an 18-year veteran of law Police Department, Cloy was a FBI State Law Enforcement for firearms Fiscal Year 2013-14 total financial
show their different styles of deliv- As special accomplishments, enforcement, serving 16 years with Task Force agent with top secret and is a Homeland Security certified budget was $502,484,772. Yarber’s
ery. Vance presented that his command the Jackson Police Department. He clearance. His duties included inves- executive protection agent. Fiscal Year 2014-15 total financial
Both candidates in the three fo- over Precinct 2 was for the largest is a graduate of Jackson State Uni- tigation of high profile narcotic traf- Among his commendations are: budget comes in at $392,500.437.
rums expressed a love for the job precinct community in Jackson; that versity with a BS degree in Criminal ficking, homicides, bank robberies, Life Saving Award, Jackson Police Public Hearings for the budget
and a love for Jackson, although in precinct also the first to win the pres- Justice and Correctional Services. public corruption, fugitive recovery, Officer of the Month Award, FBI start Monday, August 25 at 9 a.m.
the last forum at New Hope Church, tigious “Comstat Crime Reduction He received an associate degree kidnappings and undercover surveil- Outstanding Performance; JPD Dis- Currently, there are eight hearings
Vance added, “… and I didn’t go to Award” in 2003 and 2004. from Hinds Community College in lance. tinguished Service Award, FBI Spe- planned. Go to www.city.jackson.
Canton.” Vance graduated from Jackson Criminal Justice. Cloy was a SWAT operative and cial Agent-in-Charge Service Award, ms.us for updates.
grand opening
Continued from page 1
Councilman Charles Tillman, owners Calvin and Shirley Love, Carl
Bakery goods for sampling PHOTOS BY JACKIE HAMPTON Hayes and Vic Sexton
Owners Calvin and Shirley Love (R) with local resident Alice Smith
She said, “I started out with one
nesses as Nissan and McDade’s others that were present to cater to jar of peanut butter, one small
Market. He thanked the city fire- The Cookie Net and to help it to bag of sugar and one small bag
fighters for being present and grow. of flour.” She went on to say,
said, “Everybody that works for Co-owner Calvin Love thanked “Now we have cases and cases
the city serves the community.” everyone for coming out and of each.” When asked if her hus-
Also present and offering support stated that he and his wife make band knew how to bake she re-
was Jackson City Councilwoman a great team. He said, “God gifted marked, “Oh, yes, and he comes
LaRita Cooper-Stokes of Ward his hands and enabled him to do up with all kinds of creative
Three, Carl Haynes of WRTM what he does.” Afterward, he gave cakes.” She said his favorite cre-
– 105.1 FM Radio, and Kai Wil- a prayer of thanks and a blessing ation is a cake with a lot of fruit
liams and Mike Williams both of the building. in it. Shirley Love said their spe-
with the City of Jackson’s Public, Shirley Love said even though cialty cakes such as lemon, cara-
Education and Government Net- it’s been hard she has been sur- mel, red velvet, strawberry, and
work (PEG). Tillman made an ap- rounded by good people to help chocolate can be pre-ordered but Councilwoman LaRita Cooper Stokes congratu-
peal to west Jackson residents and and support her with the business. pound cakes are always on hand. lates Love. Kia and Mike Williams of PEG Network attend opening.
BUSINESS
A4 • the miSSiSSippi link AUgUSt 21 - 27, 2014 www.mississippilink.com
Connect 1 JSU
Continued from page 1 Continued from page 1
Walmart relationships with elected former Arkansas Governor Mike known leaders, corporate owners She added that those places have Before Meyers’ address, Dr.
officials, suppliers, customers, Huckabee. In 2002, Quinn was Di- and executives. been established by the university Glenda Windfield, president of the
communities, and associates. He rector of Communications for the There will be numerous work- leaders who came before her; spe- JSU Faculty Senate; thanked Mey-
is currently focused on the major successful Huckabee re-election shops during the conference for cifically naming former president ers for not making the pay raises
Walmart effort to bring manufac- campaign. registrants. “How to” workshop Dr. John Peoples and past interim strictly based on merit. This com-
turing and jobs back to the United Quinn previously was Director of sessions at the conference include president Dr. Leslie B. McLemore. ment also drew applause.
States. The company has commit- Communications for the Arkansas lessons on how to do business with “We have wonderful shoulders to The university has added 20 new
ted to buying an additional $250 Department of Human Services and the Federal, State and City govern- stand on,” she said. faculty members among its 153
billion in American products during a television journalist with the CBS ment; how to do business with large Meyers talked of making tough new hires for the fall semester.
the next ten years. TV affiliate in Little Rock, Ark. corporations, agencies and institu- choices such as deciding on raise Jackson Mayor Tony Yarber ap-
During his time at Walmart, Quinn is a member of the Board tions; how to get business funding amounts. “This is the year for staff plauded Meyers for understanding
Keynote speaker Dr. Saundra McGuire
Quinn has helped manage the com- of Directors of Goodwill of Ar- and financial assistance; how a busi- raises,” Meyers told the audience the importance of education in the
pany commitment to hire 100,000 kansas, and a past President of the ness can use E-commerce and the to a rousing applause. The school city. “The university produces re-
veterans over five years, has worked Board of Directors of the Children’s internet to grow; and more. Anyone rotates raise years between staff search day in and day out that the
in the Walmart Benefits Division Museum of Arkansas. In 2010, interested in attending workshop and faculty. city has become a consumer of,”
that makes company benefits avail- Quinn co-chaired a successful com- sessions can sign up online at http:// She mentioned the support JSU Yarber said.
able to 1.3 million associates, and munity campaign to raise $70 mil- connect1conferenc.com/events/ received after its baseball team lost He said the city is forming a
has helped lead the company effort lion in new funding for the Benton- Registration is still open for busi- its bus and equipment during a fire partnership with JSU through its
to make healthier food more acces- ville School District. Quinn is on the nesses, agencies, organizations and earlier this year. “It was amazing to Institute of Government that will
sible and affordable for all families. Board of Directors of the Northwest individuals interested in having an see people out late at night ready to lay out a strategic plan for the city.
Walmart is the largest grocer in the Arkansas Classical Academy, and exhibit booth in the exhibit hall. In- help,” she said. Dr. Rodney Washington, associ-
United States. the Northwest Arkansas Lacrosse terested parties can register online She thanked the JSU family for ate professor in the Department of
In 2006, Quinn was a member of Program. on the conference website at http:// embracing change and tolerating Elementary and Early Childhood
Assoc Prof. Dr. Rodney Washington
the Walmart team that rolled out the Quinn and his wife Shannon live connect1conference.com/exhibitor- the discomfort she said is the impe- Education, said he thought Meyers’
innovative $4 generic drug program in Rogers, Ark., with their two chil- information/ tus for innovation. address was upbeat. “It was posi- focused.”
that changed the national health- dren: Jimmy and Ava. For more information go to the One key change at the university tive. Dr. Meyers cited some major Keynote speaker to the JSU
care landscape by saving customers The conference will feature an conference website at www.con- was transforming the Department accomplishments and it will be ex- Faculty and Staff Seminar was Dr.
billions of dollars. For that work, expo, networking breakfast, busi- nect1conference.com or send an of Mass Communications into a citing to move forward,” he said. Saundra McGuire, director emeriti,
Quinn was a co-winner of the 2007 ness luncheon, awards dinner, nu- email to event@connect1confer- School of Journalism and Mass “Going forward, we have to Louisiana State University’s Cen-
Walmart Sam Walton Entrepreneur- merous workshop sessions, and a ence.com or call 601-368-8479. Communications, with Eric D. be cautious not to declare victory ter for Academic Success.
ial Award. VIP reception. Speakers and pre- Register for the full conference on- Stringfellow, executive director of too soon,’’ Meyers said. “We to- Stephanie R. Jones can be
Before joining Walmart in 2006, senters headlining the conference line at: http://connect1conference. University Communications, serv- gether must continue to support reached at [email protected]
Quinn was Director of Policy for will include nationally and locally com/register-attend/registration/ ing as interim chair. the essence of ONE JSU: being or [phone].
Commissioner Epps assumes leadership of second major “correctional” organization
The Mississippi Link Newswire 17, 2014, at the close of ASCA’s determining whom we are mad Epps is believed to be the first professional organizations, from
Mississippi Department of business meetings in Salt Lake at and whom we are afraid of.” person to simultaneously head which he has received many
Corrections Commissioner City. ASCA’s members include both the ASCA and ACA. notable awards. On Monday,
Christopher B. Epps, who is “I appreciate the trust, respect heads of corrections agencies “It is quite an honor,” said he was honored with the ACA’s
president of the American Cor- and confidence of my peers,” in the 50 states and correctional ASCA Co-Executive Director Walter Dunbar Accreditation
rectional Association (ACA), said Epps, who will mark his facilities in Cook County (Chi- George Camp. “I think it dem- Achievement Award for his su-
now also leads another major twelfth year as Mississippi’s cor- cago), Los Angeles County, the onstrates the great regard and perior contributions to accredita-
professional organization dedi- rections chief on August 30. District of Columbia, New York respect his peers have for him.” tion.
cated to improving correctional “I thank everyone for their City, Philadelphia, the Federal Epps has distinguished him- Epps’ two-year term as presi-
services and practices. prayers and support. Correc- Bureau of Prisons, The Correc- self in other leadership roles with dent of the ACA, the oldest and
Epps began a two-year term tions is a tough and crucial field tional Service of Canada, each ASCA, including vice president largest international correction-
as president of the Association in our society today. Therefore, province of Canada, and any and treasurer. al association with more than
of State Correctional Adminis- we should stop kicking the can United States territory, posses- He also has a long history of 20,000 members from 60 coun-
trators (ASCA), Sunday, August down the road when it comes to sion, and/or commonwealth. affiliations with numerous other tries, ends in February. Epps
STATE
www.mississippilink.com AugusT 21 - 27, 2014 THE mississippi link • A5
AP analysis: teen births down
in Mississippi, other states
The Associated Press shows a steady increase in ify for Medicaid. stinence-plus for older ones. also said frequently
Republican Gov. Phil Bryant births outside marriage in the Mississippi has long been When he talks to teens, Bry- that he hopes to end
has said for years that one of U.S. since the 1940s, peaking one of the poorest states in ant tells them to abstain from abortion in Missis-
his top goals is reducing Mis- in 2008. The report says the the nation. Since 2012-13, the sex until marriage. He has sippi. Bryant
sissippi’s teenage pregnancy recent decline of births to un- state’s public
rate, long one of the highest married mothers is the steepest schools have
in the nation. Now, he says his the nation has seen since the been required
administration deserves credit 1970s. to offer sex
for chipping away at the prob- “The largest percentage drop education
lem. in non-marital birth rates be- courses.
“Our fight to reduce teen tween 2007 and 2012 was for There can
pregnancy is ... vital to our suc- teenagers,” according to the be no dem-
cess as a state, and figures from CDC. onstrations
the Mississippi Department of During those years, the birth of how to ap-
Health show teen pregnancy rate to mothers aged 15 to 17 ply condoms
has fallen more than 15 percent dropped 30 percent, while the or talk about
from 2011 to 2013,” Bryant rate for those who aged 18 or abortion to
said last month in a speech at 19 dropped 26 percent. prevent birth.
the Neshoba County Fair. It’s widely acknowledged Parents must
However, Mississippi is not that teenage parents face plenty give permis-
alone in seeing a decrease of of challenges, and that the re- sion for a stu-
births to teenage mothers. The sponsibilities of raising a baby dent to take
federal Centers for Disease fall more on the young moms the classes,
Control and Prevention issued than the dads. Compared to and boys
a report this month that shows their peers without babies, and girls are
the U.S. birth rate among un- teenage moms are more likely taught sepa-
married women, including teen to drop out of high school or rately.
moms, “has declined steadily college, or to delay completion More than
since its peak in 2007-2008.” of their own education. half of school
That raises some important “If you want to fail in life, districts opted
questions: Is Bryant any more if you want to end up being on to teach an ab-
responsible for the reduc- Medicaid - CHIPs and Medic- stinence-only
tion in Mississippi than, say, aid and food stamps the rest of sex education
Democratic President Barack your life - if you never want to curriculum,
Obama is for the reduction have a career, then all you’ve while a small-
nationwide? Did government- got to do is drop high school er number
sponsored programs make a and have a baby. And I can al- are teaching
significant difference? most assure you that’s what’s “abstinence-
How much did other factors going to happen to you,” Bry- plus,” which
such as the struggling econo- ant told about 200 young peo- includes more
my, social pressure or access to ple at a past teen pregnancy detailed infor-
birth control influence people’s prevention conference. mation about
reproductive decisions - even birth control.
the decision to follow through CHIP is the state Children’s Some chose
with an unintended pregnancy Health Insurance Program, a abstinence-
rather than end it with abor- government insurance program only for
tion? for children whose families younger stu-
A chart in the CDC report earn slightly too much to qual- dents and ab-
Sen. Blount receives
Legislative Leadership Award
The Mississippi Link Newswire
Mississippi State Senator David Blount
(District 29 – Hinds County) recently re-
ceived the Legislative Leadership Award
from the Dept. of Rehabilitation Services
for work on behalf of disabled Mississip-
pians.
Blount spoke at the graduation cere-
mony recognizing the department’s blind
internship program that puts people to
work in jobs across the state.
Blount is a former Vice President of
Parents for Public Schools - Jackson
chapter and a member of the Board of
Directors of the Mississippi Sports Hall State Sen. David Blount with Dorothy Young
of Fame. and Butch McMillan as he receives honors
He is a graduate of Leadership Jack- from the Dept. of Rehabilitation Services.
son. The eighth generation Mississippian
grew up in Hinds County. He was elected Blount serves on the Senate Education
to the State Senate in 2007 and re-elected Committee and has a 100 percent vot-
in 2011 with 69 percent of the vote. ing record with The Parents’ Campaign,
He describes his top priority as Mississippi’s leading parent organiza-
strengthening public education in Mis- tion promoting quality public education
sissippi. across Mississippi.
Thompson
and Norwood
hosting town
hall meeting
The Mississippi Link Newswire
Congressman Bennie Thompson will up- Thompson
date Jacksonians on federal legislation affect-
ing the state and city at a Town Hall meeting
5:30-7:30 p.m., Monday, August 25, 2014, at
MetroCenter Mall Event Center, at the first
floor entrance near the City of Jackson and
Highway Patrol testing entrance.
Mississippi Senator Sollie B. Norwood
(District 28) will also discuss legislation
passed in the 2014 Regular Session that af-
fects the state.
The congressman and senator will answer
questions during the event. All are invited to
attend. For more information call 601-672-
0048. Norwood
HEALTH
A6 • the mississippi link August 21 - 27, 2014 www.mississippilink.com
Kids’ brains Another Ebola Problem:
reorganize when Finding its
learning math skills
Natural Source
The Associated Press the role of camels. The samples initially
A scary problem lurks be- In the case of Ebola, were checked only for
yond the frenzied efforts to health experts think the Lassa fever, which is com-
keep people from spreading initial cases in each out- mon in West Africa. But
Ebola: No one knows ex- break get it from eating or when the scientists recently
actly where the virus comes handling infected animals. went back and tested for
from or how to stop it from They think the virus may other infections, they found
seeding new outbreaks. come from certain bats, and nearly 9 percent was Ebola.
Ebola has caused two in parts of Africa, bats are One or more types of
dozen outbreaks in Africa considered a delicacy. Ebola virus have “prob-
since it first emerged in But bats may not be the ably been there in the mix”
1976. It is coming from whole story or the creature for some time but for some
somewhere - probably bats that spread it to humans. reason didn’t explode into
- but experts agree they The World Health Orga- a widespread epidemic in
need to pinpoint its origins nization lists chimpanzees, West Africa until this year,
in nature. gorillas, monkeys, forest said Stephen Morse, a Co-
That has had to wait un- antelope and porcupines lumbia University infec-
til they can tame the cur- as possibly playing a role. tious disease expert.
The Associated Press Scientists recorded how Instead of using a lot of rent outbreak, which has Even pig farms may ampli- Ebola’s jump from ani-
claimed more than 1,100 fy infection because of fruit mals to people is thought to
WASHINGTON - Some- quickly they responded and effort, retrieving six plus
lives in four countries - the bats on the farms, the WHO be rare. Experts say there
time in elementary school, what regions of their brain four equals 10 from long-
worst toll from Ebola in says. may be a large degree of
you quit counting your fin- became active as they did. term storage was almost au-
history. “It’s not clear what the bad luck in becoming in-
gers and just know the an- In a separate session, they tomatic, Menon said.
“First and foremost get animal is. It’s going to take fected - in a cave associated
swer. Now scientists have also tested the kids face to In other words, over time
the outbreak under control. a lot of testing,” said Dr. with a Marburg outbreak,
put youngsters into brain face, watching if they moved the brain became increas-
Once that piece is resolved, Robert Gaynes, an Emory Towner found the virus in
scanners to find out why, their lips or counted on their ingly efficient at retriev-
then go back and find what University infectious dis- only 3 percent of bats he
and watched how the brain fingers, for comparison with ing facts. Think of it like a
the source is,” said Jona- ease specialist who worked tested.
reorganizes itself as kids the brain data. bumpy, grassy field, NIH’s
than Towner, a scientist for the CDC for more than Even if an animal source
learn math. The children were tested Mann Koepke explained.
who helped find the bat 20 years. is clearly identified and
The take-home advice: twice, roughly a year apart. Walk over the same spot
source of another Ebola- Part of the puzzle is how people are warned, “there
drilling your kids on simple As the kids got older, their enough and a smooth, grass-
like disease called Mar- long the virus has been in is always likely to be an
addition and multiplication answers relied more on free path forms, making it
burg. Towner works for the West Africa. Previous out- occasional exposure -
may pay off. memory and became faster easier to get from start to
U.S. Centers for Disease breaks have been in the east someone who drives off
“Experience really does and more accurate, and it end.
Control and Prevention. and central regions of the the highway, in essence,”
matter,” said Dr. Kathy showed in the brain. If your brain doesn’t have
Others say finding Ebo- continent. Morse said.
Mann Koepke of the Nation- There was less activity to work as hard on simple
la’s origins is more than a The current outbreak be- But with other diseases,
al Institutes of Health, which in the prefrontal and pari- math, it has more working
down-the-road scientific gan in rural Guinea, and control measures have paid
funded the research. etal regions associated with memory free to process the
curiosity. the first suspected first case off.
Healthy children start counting and more in the teacher’s brand-new lesson
“Confirming the source was a 2-year-old child who In 2003, when civet cats
making that switch between brain’s memory center, the on more complex math.
would definitely be im- died in Gueckedou prefec- were tied to SARS, “you
counting to what’s called hippocampus, the research- “The study provides new
portant,” said Dr. Richard ture in December, research- could just see the poten-
fact retrieval when they’re ers reported Sunday in Na- evidence that this experience
Wenzel, a Virginia Com- ers wrote in the New Eng- tial for animal-to-human
8 years old to 9 years old, ture Neuroscience. with math actually changes
monwealth University sci- land Journal of Medicine in spread” in live animal mar-
when they’re still working The hippocampus is sort the hippocampal patterns,
entist who formerly led the April. They did not specu- kets where they were sold
on fundamental addition and of like a relay station where or the connections. They be-
International Society for late on how the child may and butchered for food, and
subtraction. How well kids new memories come in - come more stable with skill
Infectious Diseases. have become infected. control of those markets
make that shift to memory- short-term working mem- development,” she said.
Throughout history, some Some scientists think in southern China helped
based problem-solving is ory - and then can be sent “So learning your addition
of the biggest wins against the virus has been lurking limit the outbreak, said Dr.
known to predict their ulti- elsewhere for longer-term and multiplication tables and
infectious diseases have in the area for years. They Jeffrey Koplan, an Emory
mate math achievement. storage and retrieval. Those having them in rote memory
involved not just limiting point to the case of a lone University professor and
Those who fall behind “are hippocampal connections helps.”
person-to-person spread scientist who got sick in former head of the CDC.
impairing or slowing down increased with the kids’ Quiz your child in differ-
but also finding and con- 1994 after doing an autop- “If you can eliminate the
their math learning later on,” math performance. ent orders, she advised - nine
trolling the sources in na- sy on a wild chimpanzee in market either by providing
Mann Koepke said. “The stronger the connec- times three and then 10 times
ture fueling new cases. Ivory Coast and to a recent substitute protein sources”
But why do some kids tions, the greater each indi- nine - to make sure they real-
Plague was halted after study that explored the pos- or outlawing the sale of
make the transition easier vidual’s ability to retrieve ly remember and didn’t have
the germ was tied to rat- sibility that past Ebola cas- that meat, “you can have an
than others? facts from memory,” said to think it through.
riding fleas. With the re- es in the region have gone impact,” Koplan said.
To start finding out, Stan- Dr. Vinod Menon, a psychia- While the study focuses
spiratory disease SARS, undiagnosed. That’s tough unless you
ford University researchers try professor at Stanford and on math, Mann Koepke said
civet cats played a role. Scientists in the United can provide other food,
first peeked into the brains the study’s senior author. cognitive development in
With typhus it was lice, and States and Sierra Leone Towner said.
of 28 children as they solved But that’s not the whole general probably works the
with bird flu, live poultry looked back at hundreds “It can be a hard sell” to
a series of simple addition story. same way. After all, kids
markets. Efforts to control of blood samples that were convince people trying to
problems inside a brain- Next, Menon’s team put who match sounds to letters
MERS, a virus causing spo- sent to a testing laboratory feed families to stay away
scanning MRI machine. 20 adolescents and 20 adults earlier learn to read faster.
radic outbreaks in the Mid- in eastern Sierra Leone from something possibly
No scribbling out the an- into the MRI machines and Stanford’s Menon said the
dle East, include exploring from 2006 through 2008. dangerous, he said.
swer: The 7- to 9-year-olds gave them the same simple next step is to study what
saw a calculation - three plus addition problems. It turns goes wrong with this system
four equals seven, for exam- out that adults don’t use in children with math learn-
ple - flash on a screen and their memory-crunching ing disabilities, so that sci- Subscribe TODAY 2659 Livingston Road • Jackson MS, 39213
pushed a button to say if the hippocampus in the same entists might try new strate-
answer was right or wrong. way. gies to help them learn. 601-896-0084 • www.mississippilink.com
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nATIOnAL
www.mississippilink.com AugusT 21 - 27, 2014 THE Mississippi link • A7
Michael Brown
Continued from page 1
of my career reporting on fatal can be signs that a scuffle preced- train officers to continue firing of those tests should be available
encounters between police of- ed the fatal shots. until the suspect has been com- soon (though it could take the au-
ficers and civilians. Here’s some Witnesses have said Brown and pletely subdued. thorities months to release them).
of what Baden found and what Wilson wrestled in the moments Some experts say that incidents Forensic pathologists typically
experts will be looking for as they before the killing. On Baden’s di- in which a civilian has been hit fill vials with bodily fluids - urine,
examine Brown’s corpse: agram of Brown’s body, the doc- with a single shot are more sus- blood, or vitreous humor, the fluid
• Evidence that Brown was flee- tor does not appear to have noted picious than those with multiple within the eyeballs - and send
ing from the officer who shot him, any significant injuries other than shots: The lone bullet could have them off to outside laboratories to
Darren Wilson. Shots to the back the gun shot wounds. been fired accidentally or in a mo- be screened for alcohol, prescrip-
are a red flag, indicating the vic- Baden did not find gunpowder ment of rage. tion drugs, and street drugs.
tim may have been running from residue on Brown’s hands, one • Gunshot residue. The pres- If drugs or alcohol are discov-
the officer rather than attacking. piece of evidence that would like- ence of gunshot residue (GSR) on ered in Brown’s system, that in-
The basic law on use of force ly be present if the two men were the skin or clothes of the victim formation might provide some
turns on whether a police officer struggling for control of a gun dis- may mean that the person was additional context to the fatal
acted from a “reasonable belief” charged at close range. shot at very close range. Baden events.
that he or she was facing a lethal • Bullet trajectory. Shots fired found no GSR on Brown’s body In some police-civilian clashes,
Michael Brown’s parents Michael Sr. and Lesley McSpadden AP PHOTO
threat. at a downward angle may indi- but said he did not scrutinize his the evidence discovered during
Baden - who was hired by cate the officer fired while the • number of shots. Baden York Times as saying, “In my clothing. an autopsy turns out to be crucial.
Brown’s family - believes Brown victim was on his knees or laying voiced concern over the fact that capacity as the forensic examiner Additionally, bullets fired from In the case of Michael Brown,
was shot at least six times with all on the ground. A person in those Brown was hit by at least six for the new York State Police, I a few inches away leave distinct it’s not clear how useful this trio
the bullets striking him from the positions generally poses less of a shots. would say, ‘You’re not supposed wound patterns on the flesh. of autopsies will be. As the na-
front. physical threat. The doctor, who served earlier to shoot so many times.’” Baden’s report suggests the shots tion tries to understand what hap-
• Signs of a physical alterca- Baden said a shot to Brown’s in his career as chief medical ex- The number of shots may or were fired from further away. pened on August 9, in Ferguson,
tion. Forensic pathologists study head appeared to have come from aminer for new York City and as may not be significant. Training • The presence of alcohol or the autopsy results may well
the exterior of the body for bruis- above; he believes this was the an expert for the new York State on lethal force varies from depart- drugs. Baden has not reviewed not prove conclusive on the key
es, scrapes and lacerations, which fatal shot. Police, was quoted by the new ment to department. Many forces the toxicology tests, but results questions.
Another black boy is killed and my pain is constant
By Dr. James B. Ewers Jr.
know the answer to that ques-
Special to The Mississippi Link
tion; only they do.
There is a movie out about Sometimes when bad things
music legend James Brown ti- happen in communities, the fall
tled “Get On Up.” It depicts the back answer is what we are “try-
life of the iconic singer and his ing” to do.
career. An interesting account of ra-
One of his greatest hits was ti- cial tensions between the police
tled “Say It Loud, I’m Black and and the community in Ferguson
I’m Proud.” It was a socially comes from a young African-
conscious tune that made black American male Terrell Marshall.
people, like me, feel good about Marshall says he was walk-
ourselves. ing home last month and po-
It came at a time when race lice stopped him. They emp-
relations were at a low point in tied his luggage and searched
America. I was in my develop- him. Maybe that happens a lot
ing years then, so I did connect to young black men. I call it
with the song when I heard it. “guilty until proven innocent.”
It is quite ironic and almost ee- Unfortunately, maybe looking
rie that the latest shooting victim young, black and male makes
by the police has the last name you look guilty. Some would ar-
of Brown. Michael Brown, an gue with that assertion and you
18-year-old African American are entitled to your opinion.
male was shot and killed August I am growing increasingly sad
9 in the St. Louis, of seeing black boys
Missouri suburb of COMMENTARY dying by their own
Ferguson. hands or by the hands
I have often said that when a of someone else. Either way,
young African American male mothers still cry, funerals are
leaves home, it is uncertain still held and communities still
whether he will return home. mourn.
Young Michael Brown did not. The community of Ferguson
He was killed by a policeman is now protesting what many see
when he was walking to his as a senseless and tragic death. I
grandmother’s house with his join the citizens of Ferguson as it
friend. was senseless and it was tragic.
Accounts of what happened Why do you have to shoot a
differ sharply. Police Chief young man five or six times?
Thomas Jackson said that Mi- Do you really want to make sure
chael Brown assaulted the po- that he is really injured and pos-
lice officer. Dorian Johnson, sibly dead? I don’t know and
Brown’s friend, said that he was won’t hazard a guess.
shot multiple times and that at There are some cities in this
one point both of his hands were country that are using members
in the air. That is usually a sign of the clergy to help in this effort
of surrender. to stop the violence. Until more
Do black boys go out and cities use men and women of the
intentionally assault police of- cloth to join police forces and
ficers? Maybe the police officer other community groups, we
feared for his life because Mi- will continue to see these events
chael Brown had a gun or some which shake our very humanity.
other type of weapon? The po- While I believe in diversity
lice report indicates Michael efforts, and I am a champion of
Brown was unarmed. them, our hearts and minds must
The Ferguson police force has also change. Prayer does change
53 officers and three of the offi- things. Look to One who sits
cers are African-American. Yes, high and looks low. He will give
“three.” Chief Jackson says he us the answer. We have tried ev-
has been trying to increase di- erything else.
versity since he has been there. James B. Ewers Jr., Ed.D.,
St. Louis has a pretty signifi- is President Emeritus for Teen
cant African American popula- Mentoring Committee of Ohio.
tion for possible police recruits. He can be reached via email at
Is the community of Ferguson [email protected]
really advertising for black of- [AP PHOTOS/ PROTESTS
ficers and have a plan? I don’t OVER BROWN SHOOTING]
A8 • the mississippi link August 21 - 27, 2014 www.mississippilink.com
The Junior League of Jackson JPS Superintendent
donates backpacks filled with
seeks community
supplies to JPS students
support for JPS Schools
The Mississippi Link Newswire
The Junior League of Jack-
son (JLJ) delivered over 600 The Mississippi Link Newswire around Callaway High School, about each school, and asked
backpacks to JPS students Au- Following the Jackson Pub- Kirksey Middle School, and everyone he met to support the
gust 4, 2014. Each backpack lic Schools Convocation cer- North Jackson Elementary teachers and students in their
was filled with school supplies emony on August 12, 2014, School as part of a community pursuit of a successful 2014–
and a copy of the book “The Superintendent Dr. Cedrick outreach effort to embrace the 2015 school year.
Year of the Stars,” a children’s Gray, along with officers from area residents and business All of the 60 schools in the
book published by JLJ. League JPS Campus Enforcement and owners. Dr. Gray introduced District carried out the same
members dropped off the back- Jackson Police Department, himself to residents, handed canvassing effort in neighbor-
packs to students at several canvassed the neighborhood out flyers with information hoods throughout the city.
south Jackson schools includ-
ing Van Winkle, Bates, Wood-
ville Heights, Oak Forest, and
Timberlawn elementaries.
“These backpacks are filled
with school supplies that can
be used at the beginning of the
year to enhance their learn-
ing,” said Van Winkle Princi-
pal Stacey Hughes. Jackson Public Schools on The project is one of several
The Junior League of Jack- various projects, including this that League members will
son has long partnered with year’s “Backpack Buddies.” complete this year.
Murrah 2014 graduate
wins silver in national
(From left) JPS Campus Enforcement Chief Gerald Jones, Supt. Dr. Cedrick Gray, Interim JPD Chief Lee Vance, and
JPD officer Dewayne Wilson
ACT-SO competition
The Mississippi Link Newswire
Jackson Public Schools is
proud to announce that Krys-
tal Jackson walked away with
a silver medal in the National
ACT-SO competition held
July 17–21, 2014, in Las
Vegas. She placed second in
the Classical Vocal category
and won a $1,500 scholar-
ship and a Windows Surface
laptop. She won gold in two
categories in the local quali-
fying competition—Classical
Vocal and Painting. Krystal
is a 2014 graduate of Murrah
High School and plans to at-
tend Millsaps College in the
fall.
JPS was well-represent-
ed on the ACT-SO national
stage. Three other JPS stu-
dents–Jordan Jefferson, a stu-
dent at Callaway, and Court-
2014 Murrah grad Krystal Jackson (right) stands on the winner’s po-
land Brown and Taylor White
dium after winning a silver medal in Classical Vocal at the National ACT-
of Murrah–won gold medals
SO competition in Las Vegas.
at the Mississippi NAACP
ACT-SO competition held in Academic, Cultural, Tech- American youth can demon-
March 2014 to qualify for the nological, and Scientific strate academic, artistic and
national event. In all, there Olympics, and is a major scientific excellence, and
were approximately 600 local youth initiative of the Na- showcase their talents in state
competition gold medalists tional Association for the Ad- and national competitions.
from across the country par- vancement of Colored People NAACP branches sponsor
ticipating in the 36th annual (NAACP). local competitions in their
program. ACT-SO provides a fo- communities for students to
ACT-SO stands for Afro- rum through which African- qualify for the nationals.
Dr. Cedrick Gray met area residents and business owners in the neighborhood around Callaway High, Kirksey
Middle, and North Jackson Elementary as part of an outreach effort to engage the community in the success of
JPS schools.
EDUCATION
www.mississippilink.com AugusT 21 - 27, 2014 THE mississippi link • A9
Tougaloo Students Complete Move-in Day, marked by
10-week Program at UMMC
hugs and legacies, signals
Research focused on eradicating prostate cancer
start of 2014 Academic Year
The Mississippi Link Newswire
Tougaloo College stu-
dents Ansley Scott, Joshua The Mississippi Link Newswire
Agee and Diva Whalen are Alonzo Brown is from
among six undergraduates Chicago. Danny Little is
who just completed a 10- from Jackson. Both learned
week program at the Uni- – during different genera-
versity of Mississippi Medi- tions – key history and cul-
cal Center that focuses on ture lessons at Jackson State
eradicating prostate cancer. University, lessons they
The collaborative effort be- shared Saturday during the
tween UMMC, Tougaloo university’s annual Move in
and Jackson State University Day.
gave student researchers the Brown, a 1996 JSU gradu-
chance to search for a pros- ate, beamed as he explained
tate cancer cure by working how he helped recruit his
on specific projects along- Tougaloo College students (from left) Ansley Scott, Joshua Agee and niece, Makalia Brown, to Ti-
side faculty mentors from Diva Whalen. gerland. “I think my brother
UMMC’s Cancer Institute. wanted her to go to an in-
Each presented their find- cancer is most often found in torically black colleges and state school, but I kept re-
ings July 30 during the annu- African-American men, and universities so that they can minding them about Jackson
al Prostate Cancer Research they typically have its most pursue doctorates and medi- State,” Brown said. “She has
Mini-Symposium on the aggressive form. cal degrees and increase di- good grades. She’s an honor
UMMC campus. Their work The program also seeks versity in biomedical and student and here we are.”
is much needed; prostate to train students from his- cancer research. Actually, Makalia Brown
said, JSU was not a hard sell.
“I was always interested in to football practice. ing, able to address financial
FAMU announces
Jackson State,” she said be- “I am just thankful to these aid issues, get their student
fore receiving a hug from young people for making a IDs, parking decals and even
President Carolyn W. Mey- great choice in coming to be admitted to the university.
ers. “The university offered Jackson State,” Meyers said “This is a one-stop shop,”
recruitment and scholarship
me a scholarship and I am between hugs with students, Phillip A. Cockrell, associ-
going to play golf.” parents and university em- ate vice president for student
Little, a JSU football ployees who volunteered to life and dean of students,
workshop in Jackson, Miss. player in the early 1980s, help first-year and transfer said as he answered ques-
was helping daughter Mi- students move into their dor- tions from parents and stu-
yah get situated. “This is all mitories. dents or directed them to
about the love we have for “This is just a beautiful various stations inside the
this university,” said Little, day,” Meyers said at Alex- Payton Center. “We wanted
who grew up in the neigh- ander Hall before sharing this process to be seamless
borhood around campus and laughs with basketball coach for our students.”
whose oldest daughter is a Wayne Brent, baseball coach Makalia Brown’s journey
rising senior at JSU. “This is Omar Johnson, volunteers to JSU was seamless – in a
the school that we grew up from the Wesley Foundation way, her father said.
wanting to be a part of.” and taking scores of pictures “She was accepted to a lot
The Browns and the Littles with students and parents. of universities but Jackson
were among the hundreds More than 1,000 students State was her first choice,”
who were greeted at the Wal- were expected Saturday. And David Brown said. “We’ve
ter Payton Recreation Center unlike in years past, the Pay- sent her to Catholic schools
by faculty, staff and admin- ton Center was the first stop. since first grade.
istrators, including Meyers. Students were processed in “She said, ‘Daddy, I really
Meyers started her day at Al- four groups by alphabet at want to go to an HBCU to
exander Hall before going to staggered times. learn more about my people.’
the Payton Center and later They were assigned hous- I had to respect that.”
Mississippi represented
by students at COCHUSA
The Mississippi Link Newswire edge research, and get good ited.
On August 28, Central Mis- jobs with great pay in emerg- FAMU is a fully accredited National Competition
sissippi high school students ing fields, such as the environ- Land Grant Research institu-
interested in pursing a major mental sciences. We want Mis- tion within the State University
in Science, Technology, Engi- sissippi students to consider a System of Florida.
neering, and Math (STEM) are great university that’s within It offers a Bachelor’s degree
invited to learn how they can driving distance of the capital in 75 subjects; Master’s degree
receive a four-year scholarship city,” said Derek Singleton, in 39 areas; two professional
and attend Florida A&M Uni- president of the Central Mis- degrees - Doctor of Pharmacy,
versity (FAMU) in Tallahassee, sissippi Chapter of the Florida Juris Doctorate; and 13 Ph.D.
Fla. A&M University National programs and consistently re-
FAMU recruiters and lo- Alumni Association. ceives national recognition:
cal alumni will hold a FAMU High school seniors and ju- • FAMU made the U.S.
Scholarship and Recruitment niors interested in studying a News and World Report list of
Workshop on Thursday, Au- STEM major are urged to at- the Best National Universities
gust 28, 2014, at 6.30 p.m. at tend the workshop. Incoming for 2014.
the downtown Jackson Marri- freshmen designated National • FAMU named a ‘Best in
ott Hotel, 200 E. Amite Street. Achievement, Hispanic, or the Southeast’ College by The
It’s one of several events Merit Semifinalists by the Na- Princeton Review for 2014.
scheduled in Jackson before tional Merit Corporation are • FAMU made the Forbes
the FAMU-Jackson State Uni- eligible for scholarships that Magazine list of top colleges in
versity football game on Au- include tuition, room, board, the U.S. for 2013.
gust 30 at Veteran’s Memorial books, a laptop, and stipend. For information about this Bertram Goodloe, Sunday School and HYM South Central Diocese
Stadium. Make R.S.V.P. to the FAMU event and the local chapter, outgoing president pictured with Shelby Greer and Caitlyn Beasley.
“FAMU offers incredible Office of Enrollment Manage- contact the Central MS FAMU
opportunities for students to ment at 850.599.3512 no later NAA chapter president, Derek The Mississippi Link Newswire granddaughter of Clif-
study abroad, conduct cutting- than August 26. Seating is lim- Singleton at 601.594.2298. Shelby Greer, a senior at ton and Delores Good- Shelby Greer, a senior at Germantown
Germantown High School, loe of Canton, Miss.,
High School was honored to perform the
won the state CP Jones Mu- and Johnny C. Greer Sr.
National Anthem at the Madison County
sic contest at the Sunday and the late Mary Vic-
District Convocation on August 4, 2014..
School and HYM division toria Greer of Carthage,
of the Church of Christ Holi- Miss. Oratorical Contest at the
ness USA (COCHUSA) Dio- Greer also performed the state convention and also ad-
cese Convention on June 21, National Anthem at the Mad- vanced to nationals.
2014 in Jackson, Miss. ison County District Convo- Beasley placed 1st in the
Greer advanced to the na- cation on August 4, 2014. Youth of the Year Competi-
tional convention in Atlan- The convocation was held tion and 2nd in the oratorical
ta, Ga. July 24 - 28, 2014. at Madison Central High contest.
Greer won 1st place per- School and attended by all Beasley is the daughter of
forming Give Me Jesus by district faculty, staff and ad- Stan and Melba Beasley and
Moses Hogan and God For- ministrators. the granddaughter of Clifton
bid by Bishop Charles Price Caitlyn Beasley, a fresh- and Delores Goodloe, Jr of
Jones. man at Tougaloo College Canton, and Nettie Beasley
Greer is the daughter of won the state Youth of the and the late Samuel Beasley
John and Lori Greer and the Year and the M.R. Conic Sr. of Zwolle, La.
A10 • THE mississippi link AugusT 21 - 27, 2014 www.mississippilink.com
Message from the Religion Editor
P a S t o R a l P o i n t S
How churches do Satan’s
By Daphne Higgins
truly wondering where the time has
Religion Editor
gone.
For weeks now, As I reflect on the last two de-
I’ve been setting the cades of my life, I thank God for the
Dirty Work for him
stage for the Back miracles of joy that He has blessed
to School events us with. I thank Him for the courage
that were about and faith to leave a full-time (paying)
to take place and job to be able to spend the time with
By Rev. Leon Collier Satan may not get the better of must forgive the sins of others. actually trying to offer help to what area students them that my husband and I felt they
Special to The Mississippi Link
us: for we are not without knowl- The way to be forgiven is to for- restore them. This bespeaks the were doing to ready themselves for both needed.
2 Corinthians edge of his designs.” (BBE) give (Mark 11:25, 26). spiritual impotency among many the occasion. I’ve also shared with Like so many other parents, we’ve
2:10-11 expla- The Adam’s Clarke Com- All have sinned therefore we church folk. you what an important endeavor it made so many sacrifices; we’ve tried
nation: “Now mentary said, “If the man who all must forgive. Many people Don’t allow un-forgiveness to is in my home. Yes, you know that to assist and/or encourage them with
I also forgive has given sufficient proof of the have wronged others and made condemn you as you have con- both of my children are now attend- their academic education and we
whomever you sincerity of his repentance is not efforts to reconcile, however, demned those who wronged you. ing Jackson State University, and my have been steadfast in keeping them
forgive anything. forgiven and restored, he may be some of those who were offend- Rev. Leon Collier is the pas- husband and I are officially empty- in church to learn God’s word. We
For if indeed I overwhelmed with sorrow, and ed pretentiously act as if they tor of Makarios Worship Center, nesters. I can’t lie; it’s a wonderful know that as they continue to ma-
have forgiven anything, I have sink into despair; and then the try to address the wrongs done 464 Church Rd., Madison. Resi- feeling but somewhat melancholy, ture, our lives will serve as an ex-
forgiven that one for your sakes discipline of the Church will be to them attempted to spite those dents of Madison, he and wife, as well. ample and through our example that
in the presence of Christ, that no represented, not as healing, but who wronged them. Minister Yolanda; are the proud As they both start their new lives, they know God loves them. We pray
advantage may be gained over us as leading to destruction. This is a sin as well and makes parents of three daughters. He another milestone is occurring in our that their love for “our Father” will
by Satan; for we are not ignorant “Of this our enemies would the plaintiff as guilty as the one received degrees from Criswell family. Our oldest child celebrated be one of the tools that they use as
of his schemes.” most gladly avail themselves, as who wronged them. And they College in Dallas; Southern her 20th birthday on August 19. messengers of the Lord.
Paul is commending the Co- they wish to discredit the minis- have yet to make any effort to Methodist University - Perkins To the parents of adult children The Mississippi Link, a messen-
rinthian Christians for showing try of the gospel.” apologize for their own sin of School of Theology; and a Mas- everywhere in the world, I know that ger for news in and around the state
forgiveness for the most mon- In other words, Satan gloats trying to destroy the character of ters of Divinity from Memphis you will understand when I say, my of Mississippi, would like to serve
strous sins when an offender re- when church folk refuse to for- their so called offenders. Theological Seminary. A pastor almost grown-children will always as your personal messenger to share
pents. give a repentant sinner because Our job as Christians is to not for 23 years, Collier serves as be my babies. They will always your good news and the news of
If one truly repents and is not he knows it will make the church simply discipline peers when sin a volunteer chaplain for vari- be the precious gifts from God that your place of worship.
shown forgiveness it will dis- unattractive to outsiders. is involved but also bring healing ous law enforcement agencies in were each given to me almost two As always, we ask that you let us
courage him/her and may lead We must forgive people when when the culprits repent. This is the metro area and for the Mis- decades ago and my love for them help you to communicate the good
to some form of destruction for they sincerely repent. How where many churches are failing sissippi Governor’s Mansion. only grows stronger as they grow news of our Lord. Isaiah 52:7a
their lives. sad that some church folk hold these days. He may be reached by calling older. Our daughter is getting closer reads, “What a beautiful sight it is
This is what Paul is saying in grudges and this is not of Christ. We are good at talking about 601.260.3016, 601.855.7898 or to going out on her own to rule the to see messengers coming with good
verse 11 when he said, “So that Christ forgave our sins and we people’s faults but bad about e-mail [email protected]. world and our 18 year old is begin- news!”
ning to exhibit an independence that The King James Version of Isa-
I’ve so often prayed for but now I iah 52:7b reads, “Your God reigns.”
God’s chosen women unite
don’t know if I’m ready for it. Our His presence is everywhere and so
babies are truly growing up! should the news of His love for all of
I know that I speak for my hus- His children.
band when I tell you that the years Contact Daphne M. Higgins at
Special to The Mississippi have gone by so fast. The toddler [email protected]. Fax
years were scary, the pre-adolescent 601-896-0091 or mail your infor-
Holy Temple Missionary Bap-
years were adventurous, the teen mation to The Mississippi Link,
tist Church Women’s Ministry
years were busy and now college for 2659 Livingston Road, Jackson, MS
will present God’s Chosen Wom-
both of them is our reality and we are 39213.
en Conference Friday through
Sunday, August 22 – 24. The
program theme is “God’s Leading
Ladies Destined for Purpose”.
The conference will feature a
different speaker each night. The
celebration will open on Friday,
August 22, at 7 p.m. with Praise
and Worship Service. Friday’s
guest speaker is Minister Andrea
Washington of Women of Royal
Amos Cable Green
Distinction Community Service
W.O.R.D. Saturday, August 23, will be Apostle Kathy Amos, se- Cathedral A.M.E. Zion Church, and Sunday Worship Service
Washington Home
will begin with Registration and nior pastor of Turning Point Fel- Jackson; and Sister Velma B. Ca- will take place at 9:30 a.m. The
a Continental Breakfast from 8:30 lowship Ministries International ble, dancer for Christ, Cathedral guest speaker will be Rev. Bet- of Inglewood, Calif., will be the baniss Circle, Jackson, is pastored
– 9 a.m. During the day of work- Church, Canton; Evangelist Bar- A.M.E. Zion Church, Jackson. tie Horne, the associate minister guest speaker. by Rev. Audrey L. Hall. For more
shops and seminars the speakers bara Green, associate minister of On Sunday, August 24, a Praise of Faithful Central Bible Church The church, located at 5077 Ca- information, call 601.922.6588.
R E i G n i n G a n n o u n c E M E n t S
Farish Street Baptist Church, 619 N. and the Jackson State University Football Team pastor.
Farish Street, Jackson, is culminating its annual will be present for worship service. All women Priestley Chapel Missionary Baptist
31 Days of August Celebration. Some of the re- are requested to wear red attire and men to wear Church, 177 Virlilia Rd., Canton, will host its Fall
maining activities for the month of events include red accessories. For more information, call 601- Revival Monday through Wednesday, August 25
the Best Man Cook Off on Saturday, August 23, 352-8585. Rev. John E. Cameron is pastor. – 27, at 7 p.m. nightly. Pastor John A. Wicks, Jr. of
from 3 p.m. – 4 p.m. This competition for the College Hill Missionary Baptist Church, Mount Nebo Baptist Church; Rev. C. J. Rhodes,
best grilling on the grounds requires an entry fee 1600 Florence Ave., will host its Annual Mission president of Mississippi Baptist Seminary and
and is sponsored by the Young Matrons’ Auxilia- Day on Sunday, August 24, at 4 p.m. Mary H. Bible College; and Rev. Reginald Buckley, Ex-
ry. Regular Sunday School and worship services Coleman, executive director of the Women’s ecutive Pastor of Cade Chapel M. B. Church, all
will be held on Sunday, August 24. On Monday Auxiliary of the General Missionary Baptist State ministers of the metropolitan Jackson area, will
through Thursday, August 25 – 28, an Issues Fo- Convention of Mississippi, and member of the be the speakers for this event. Special soloists
rum will take place at 11 a.m. On Friday, August Mississippi State House of Representatives, will Monday through Wednesday are Ashford Sand-
29, Candle Light Prayers will be held from 7 p.m. be the guest speaker. The theme for the event ers, Phiona McDonald, and Carolyn McCallum,
– 8 p.m. A Jazz Brunch will be held on Saturday, is “Mission, Building a Better Relations Between respectively. The theme for this Fall celebration
August 30, from noon – 1:30 p.m. and the month Church and Community” (Acts 2:43 – 47). For is “Spiritual Renew and Restoration” taken from
of activities will end on Sunday, August 31, with more information call 601.355.2670 or visit www. the Psalm 51:10-12 which reads: “Create in me
Sunday School and morning worship service. collegehillchurch.org. Rev. Michael T. Williams a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit
For more information call 601.355.0636 or visit is the pastor. within me. Do not cast me from Your presence
www.farishstreetbaptistchurch.org. Dr. Hickman True Light Missionary Baptist Church, or take Your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me
M. Johnson is the pastor. 224 East Bell St., Jackson, will celebrate its the joy of Your salvation and grant me a willing
Greater Mt. Calvary Missionary Baptist 80th Church Anniversary on Sunday, August 24, spirit to sustain me.” For more information call
Church, 1400 Robinson St., Jackson, will host beginning with 9:30 a.m. Sunday School. Dur- 601.859.8449 or e-mail: priestleychap264@
its Annual Health and Wellness Day and Walk ing the 11 a.m. Homecoming Worship Service, bellsouth.net. Rev. Robert McCallum is pastor.
of Faith on Saturday, August 23, beginning at 6 the guest speaker will be Rev. John A. Wicks, St. Mark Church, 1638 Clinton-Raymond
a.m. The walk will begin at 7 a.m. and the Health pastor of Mt. Nebo Missionary Baptist Church, Rd., Clinton, will have its Grandparents’ Day Pro-
Fair will be held until 2 p.m. in the church’s Fam- Jackson. An anniversary reception will be held gram at 10:15 a.m. on Sunday, Sept. 7, 2014.
ily Life Center. On Sunday, August 24, at 10:30 immediately following the 11 a.m. service in the The guest speaker will be Rev. James Graves of
a.m., the church will host their Annual Salute to Deva L. Brown Elementary Cafeteria, 146 East Wells Grove M.B. Church of Clinton, Miss. For
Women In Red: Women Covered By The Blood Ash Street, Jackson. For more information call more information, call 601-813-8704. Rev. Willis
of The Lamb Program. Coach Harold Jackson 601.927.6623. Rev. Marcus E. Cheeks is the Washington, Jr., is Pastor-Teacher.