State Rep. Steve Holland (D-Plantersville) said the reapportionment process of the Legislature was court-ordered and has been completed.
"We had to reapportion the Legislature. We had a court order to do that. We tried last year and it failed, so now we have drawn districts. The Republican majority on both sides, they basically drew the districts," Holland said. "I'm personally not dissatisfied but I think the maps could take on a lot of scrutiny as they move through the process."
When it was announced that David Hampton was leaving the Clarion Ledger, there was a brief moment where conservatives across Mississippi, especially around the Capitol city, breathed a sigh of relief and saw a glimmer of hope for the newspaper's future.
Perhaps the powers that be would see the light and realize just how skewed and liberally bent the paper had become. Perhaps the Capitol newspaper would begin to align their ideology with the majority of Mississippians, stop their obvious attacks on conservatism, and be a fair source for news.
We now see that such notions are wishful thinking. It seems the Clarion Ledger has jumped out of the frying pan and into the fire.
Longtime Democratic activist and former Mississippi Democratic Party Executive Director Sam Hall appears to have joined the Clarion Ledger staff as a Community Engagement Editor. He even got a lengthy piece in on Voter ID over the weekend where he pitted current Mississippi Democratic Party Executive Director Rickey Cole against Republican Secretary of State Delbert Hosemann.
Hall's history with Mississippi politics is well documented. Other than being a former Mississippi Democratic Party Executive Director, he was also the first VPAC Executive Director. You remember VPAC, right? It was former Democratic Speaker Billy McCoy's House Democratic Victory political action committee.
Most recently, Hall was former Democratic gubernatorial candidate Johnny DuPree's campaign manager. After DuPree's failed run, he co-founded a new liberal blog site called MS Political Pulse.
With Sam Hall joining the Clarion Ledger, it appears the paper's leadership still doesn't get it. They will continue to flounder and remain out of touch with the majority of Mississippians, and apparently given Hall's hiring that is indeed the direction they truly want to go.
How unfortunate.
Posted May 21, 2012 - 7:09 pm
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The Mississippi Republican Party held its 2012 State Convention at the Marriott Hotel in downtown Jackson this past weekend. More than 500 people from across the state attended the two-day event, which featured speeches from current and former elected officials while the Party reorganized for the next four years.
Mississippi Republican Party Chairman Joe Nosef, who has been serving since January of this year, was unanimously elected to a full four-year term by the State Executive Committee.
“I am grateful to the State Committee Members for electing Joe Nosef to serve as Chairman of our Party for the next four years," Governor Phil Bryant stated. "Joe has gotten off to a fantastic start over the last few months, and I am excited about what is ahead for the Mississippi Republican Party this year and beyond.”
On Friday night, Governor Phil Bryant, Senator Thad Cochran, Lieutenant Governor Tate Reeves, and former Governor Haley Barbour spoke to attendees at the United Republican Fund reception. Governor Bryant, Senator Roger Wicker, Secretary of State Delbert Hosemann, Treasurer Lynn Fitch, Auditor Stacey Pickering, Insurance Commissioner Mike Chaney, Agriculture Commissioner Cindy Hyde-Smith, and Representatives Gregg Harper, Alan Nunnelee and Steven Palazzo addressed delegates, alternate delegates and guests on Saturday.
“This year, our Republican Party State Convention was a great success,” remarked Chairman Nosef. “From the Coast to North Mississippi, we have new people getting more involved in the Party than ever before. I congratulate those elected to represent our State on the Republican National Committee, the new members of our State Executive Committee, and our delegates and alternate delegates to the upcoming Republican National Convention in August. Mississippi Republicans are ready and dedicated to victory this November."
Governor Phil Bryant was elected as the Mississippi Delegation Chairman for the National Convention. Henry Barbour and Jeanne Luckey were re-elected to a new four-year term as national committeeman and national committeewoman, respectively. All delegates and alternate delegates will represent Mississippi at the Republican National Convention, which will be held in Tampa, Florida in late August.
MS GOP Press Release
5/21/12
Posted May 21, 2012 - 2:33 pm
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NMC had a post after lunch about a mysterious motion that was attempted to be filed under seal by Steve Patterson through his lawyer, Christi McCoy. Despite the fact that it was filed by Ms. McCoy and taking into account her considerable legal argument, within about 4 minutes, Biggers denied the motion. Then McCoy refiled the motion publicly asking Judge Biggers for permission for Patterson to travel abroad in the coming weeks. Biggers granted the motion.
But what was interesting about all of this was the initial motion they attempted to file under seal. In it, it says "Mr. Patterson prefers that information to be private and not to be disseminated to the public via the Court's docket. Mr. Patterson points out that the news media has maintained an active interest in the ongoing appeal of his co-defendant, and that anything on the public docket has been fodder for updates, status reports and the like, as it pertains to Mr. Patterson and his co-defendants."
Gov. Phil Bryant Issues Statement upon Passing of Ezell Lee
JACKSON–Gov. Phil Bryant issued the following statement upon the passing of former member of the Mississippi Legislature Ezell Lee, who served in both the Mississippi House of Representatives and the Mississippi Senate:
“Deborah and I are saddened by the loss of former Sen. Ezell Lee. He served the people of South Mississippi with commitment and determination, both as a representative and as a member of the Mississippi Senate. Our prayers and thoughts are with his family today, and we will miss him.”
Gov. Phil Byrant Press Release
5/21/12
STATEMENT ON THE PASSING OF FORMER SEN. EZELL LEE
“The Mississippi Senate lost a member of its family today,” Lt. Gov. Tate Reeves said. “Sen. Ezell Lee was a dedicated public servant, who understood the value of a strong public education system and was committed to improving Mississippi schools. Elee and I, along with the entire Senate membership and Senate staff, would like to extend our sincere condolences. The Lee family is in our prayers during this difficult time.”
Lt. Governor Tate Reeves
5/21/12
Posted May 21, 2012 - 10:40 am
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Longtime motorcycle enthusiast Gov. Phil Bryant, along with retired U.S. Navy Seal and Medal of Honor recipient Tommy Norris hosted a news conference at the New State Capitol on Friday to officially kick off the annual Trail of Honor event held in Jackson over the weekend.
Arriving on his Harley-Davidson motorcycle, the governor was joined by about 30 additional riders for the press conference, which reminded folks exactly what the Trail of Honor is about.
GulfLive
5/21/12
Posted May 21, 2012 - 8:03 am
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Is Mississippi hurting its own case as it seeks federal approval for a voter ID law?
A bill signed by Republican Gov. Phil Bryant would require every voter to show a driver's license or other photo identification before casting a ballot. It also promises the state will provide a free photo ID card to any voter who needs one. But, for the fiscal year that begins July 1, legislators set aside no money to make the cards.
Will the feds see the lack of up-front cash as a lack of commitment?
AP
5/21/12
Posted May 21, 2012 - 8:01 am
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Gov. Phil Bryant signed Mississippi's long-debated and politically charged voter identification law, and Attorney General Jim Hood has forwarded it to the Department of Justice for preclearance.
Because of Mississippi's civil rights history, the Voting Rights Act of 1965 requires that changes in laws that govern the election law must be precleared by the United States government.
"Historically, as a cost-saving measure and for items that are more trivial, states have gone through the Justice Department," Secretary of State Delbert Hosemann said of seeking preclearance.
Clarion Ledger
5/19/12
Posted May 21, 2012 - 8:00 am
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Cindy Hyde-Smith made history as the first woman in the United States to be elected as Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce. She succeeded longtime Commissioner, Dr. Lester Spell, Jr., who did not seek re-election for a fifth term in office. Her election followed a 12-year career as a Mississippi State Senator for District 39 where she served as Chairman of the Senate Agriculture Committee for 8 years. She has a reputation for being a very hard worker who expects a lot of herself and those around her. Growing up in Monticello, Hyde-Smith’s father was in the trucking business, and her mother was a hairdresser who is still going strong in her business at age 74. Her parents taught her the value of hard work, and Hyde-Smith spent many hours helping in her dad’s business. She laughingly shared, “I have probably changed more oil filters than anyone at the Capitol!”
MS Business Journal
5/20/12
Posted May 21, 2012 - 7:58 am
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Did you know... For 2009, the year after the Great Recession hit, per capita income fell in all 50 states. Only nine states got back to 2008 levels, or higher, for 2010. Did you know Mississippi was one of those nine?
Turns out per capita income increases, along with job creation, were a hallmark of Gov. Haley Barbour's term. Mississippi per capita income increased 34 percent during his eight years.
Bill Crawford
5/19/12
Posted May 21, 2012 - 7:57 am
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There will be a decided Southern drawl added to New York City's Central Park Saturday, June 9, when Mississippians and friends from far and near converge for the 33rd annual Mississippi Picnic in the Big Apple, presented in part by the Mississippi Development Authority.
At the Central Park Bandshell on Fifth Avenue and 72nd Street, Southern foods and festivities will provide a taste of home to expatriates who have scattered, as well as Mississippians who travel North for the yearly tradition that has been taking place since 1979.
Grady Champion, a native Mississippi bluesman, will provide live music, along with The New York City Slickers, which includes two Mississippi musicians, Faser and Annie Chadwick Harden.
The 2012 picnic's theme, "Southern Fried Hollywood," puts the focus on some of the Magnolia State's contributions to the silver screen and entertainment industry -- such as the Screen Actors Guild Award winning movie "The Help," "The Muppets" and Jim Henson, Morgan Freeman, OprahWinfrey and James Earl Jones.
Republican freshmen who came to Congress last year promising to transform Washington's free-spending culture are no different from most other lawmakers in at least one respect: They mailed out millions of taxpayer-funded flyers and brochures during their first year in office.
GOP freshmen sent more than 25.6 million pieces of unsolicited mail last year at a cost of nearly $9.8 million, according to a review of records compiled by the chief administrative officer of the House.
Mississippi Rep. Steven Palazzo, a Republican freshman, ranked 17th among House members in spending on mass mailings.
Rep. Gregg Harper, a Republican serving his second term from Mississippi, reported spending no money on mass mailings during the same period.
Clarion Ledger
5/19/12
Posted May 21, 2012 - 7:42 am
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State highway officials say they're worried about their aging fleet of cruisers, especially at a time when legislators have put a temporary ban on the purchase of new state vehicles.
The Mississippi Highway Patrol has a stockpile of 103 new vehicles not currently on the road, but Warren Strain, spokesman for the state Department of Public Safety, said, "That 103 has to last us for about 14 months.
"When you consider 123 of your road fleet already have more than 100,000 miles, that's not a lot."
If Gov. Phil Bryant signs it into law, Senate Bill 2917 could mean fewer tax dollars going to automobile purchases. The bill is due from him on Friday.
Clarion Ledger
5/19/12
Posted May 21, 2012 - 7:41 am
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If you had any questions about the political makeup of the 150-plus folks gathered Saturday at Lowery Woodall Auditorium, the applause they gave former Gov. Ronnie Musgrove as he blasted Republican leadership was a pretty good clue.
"Nine years of leadership under the Republicans have netted us this," began the Democrat, who served as governor from 2000-2004, before offering his list of dubious achievements:
Dead last in the nation in health, infant mortality and K-12 achievement, along with 9 percent unemployment and skyrocketing college tuition.
Hattiesburg American
5/19/12
Posted May 21, 2012 - 7:39 am
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The state's unemployment rate fell to 8.7 percent in April from 9 percent in March, according to seasonally adjusted figures from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That's the lowest level since March 2009, and significantly below the state's 10.6 percent jobless rate in April 2011.
Clarion Ledger
5/18/12
Posted May 18, 2012 - 12:43 pm
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Now he's secretary of the Navy, the civilian in charge of the entire Navy and Marine Corps.
But he's donned the khaki uniform again. Only this time he's just one promotion short of an admiral.That promotion did not come courtesy the military. Mabus got the big jump in rank thanks to the makers of the new movie "Battleship." The movie, which opens in theaters this weekend, is loosely based on the game, but it's more like "Transformers at Sea," with the U.S. Navy (and others) battling aliens to save Earth.
The filmmakers, who depended on the Navy for a lot of help, asked Mabus to play the role of the commanding officer of the USS Ronald Reagan, one of America's newest nuclear-powered aircraft carriers.
That's a job typically given to Navy captains, not former junior grade officers. Of course, this is a movie about battleships, a type of warship that's been obsolete for decades. The Navy got rid of its last battle-wagons six years ago. Many are now just floating museums.
CNN
5/17/12
Posted May 18, 2012 - 7:59 am
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Speeches on education and transportation will highlight the May 31 annual State of the Region meeting hosted by CREATE Foundation's Commission on the Future of Northeast Mississippi.
Jim Barksdale, the interim executive director of the Mississippi Development Authority, is expected to discuss his ideas for improving education in Mississippi. He will also detail how adult educational attainment is affecting our regional economy.
Northern District Transportation Commissioner Mike Tagert will give his vision for transportation in the region. Education consultant Mike Ward will also address the state of education and offer a peek at the future.
AP
5/17/12
Posted May 18, 2012 - 7:56 am
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Mississippi State Auditor Stacey Pickering announced today the arrest of Lavon D. Smith, 20, of Brookhaven. A special agent with the State Auditor’s Office along with the Brookhaven City Police arrested Smith in Brookhaven on Wednesday, May 16, 2012. Smith is charged with one count of grand larceny as a result of the Auditor’s investigation. Additional unrelated charges were filed by the City of Brookhaven Police Department following the arrest.
Smith, a former maintenance employee with the Brookhaven School District, allegedly stole metal filing cabinets, desks and chairs belonging to the school district and sold them to a local salvage yard on May 4, 2012.
Fox 40
5/17
Posted May 18, 2012 - 7:54 am
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For 2009, the year after the Great Recession hit, per-capita income fell in all 50 states. Only nine states got back to 2008 levels, or higher, for 2010.
Did you know that Mississippi was one of those nine?
Turns out, per-capita-income increases, along with job creation, were a hallmark of Gov. Haley Barbour's term. Even with the dip caused by the Great Recession, Mississippi per-capita income increased 34 percent during his eight years.
This was driven, in part, by consistent employment growth under Barbour up to the recession.
5/18/12
Posted May 18, 2012 - 7:52 am
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peaking to reporters on Thursday, House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi said military chaplains will not be required to perform same-sex marriages, despite Republican claims to the opposite.
“Nobody’s ordering them to do that. I’ve never seen any suggestion that we’re ordering chaplains to perform same-sex [marriages]. Where is that?” said Ms. Pelosi. “I haven’t seen that, and I’ve been around this issue for a long time,” she added. “I think that they can rest assured that if they don’t believe in that they don’t have to perform those.”
...
Congressman Steven Palazzo, a Mississippi Republican and sponsor of the amendment, said it would clarify the role of chaplains and their requirements in regard to performing marriage ceremonies.
“The administration’s recent actions have created uncertainty regarding ceremonies permitted on military installations,” Mr. Palazzo stated. “This amendment is intended to clear up any doubt and reinforce DOMA’s authority as it applies to those installations.”
With less than six months until elections, Democratic leaders introduced a bill Thursday that aims to remove barriers to voting and counter new state election laws they say could turn away minority voters.
"They are a threat to democracy as we know it," said Rep. John Lewis, D-Ga., a civil rights icon. "The right to vote is precious, almost sacred. . . . Voting should be simple, easy and accessible to every citizen."
Meanwhile in Mississippi Thursday, Republican Gov. Phil Bryant signed into law a measure that requires voters to show a government-issued photo ID before casting a ballot. The measure is one of a wave of election laws adopted by states in recent years.
Gannett Washington Bureau
5/17/12
Posted May 18, 2012 - 7:47 am
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The Mississippi Highway Patrol’s Bureau of Investigation, along with the Tunica Police Department and the Tunica County Sheriff’s office, has arrested a man in connection with the north Mississippi highway murders.
“Hundreds of man hours have been devoted to tracking down and arresting this individual,” Gov. Phil Bryant said. “Public safety is of paramount concern to us. Just as a week ago, with the resolution of the kidnap/murder case in north Mississippi, again we see the effective results of a unified effort of several law enforcement agencies working together.”
James D. Willie, 28, of 14332 Ballentine Road, Sardis, Mississippi was arrested at 9:00 a.m. Tuesday, May 15th. Tunica police responded to a reported disturbance at 2661 Old Highway 61, Apt. D-2. Authorities found Willie with a woman who alleged he had raped her and he was taken into custody.
At the time of his arrest, a Ruger 9mm, semi-automatic handgun was found in Mr. Willie’s possession. It was determined after a testing by state Crime Lab scientists, the weapon matched the weapon used in two murders in northwest Mississippi last week.
Tuesday, May 8th, Thomas K. Schlender, 74, of Raymond, Nebraska was found in his 1999 Ford F-150 pick-up truck in the median of southbound Interstate 55 shortly after 1:30 a.m. Friday, May 11th at about 2:15 a.m., Lori Anne Carswell, 48, of Hernando was found beside her 1997 Pontiac Grand Am. The car was on the shoulder of MS 713.
Schlender’s car was found in the median of Interstate 55 near the Pope exit in Panola County and Carswell’s car was located in Tunica County near the intersection of MS713 and Interstate 69.
“The Bureau of Investigation and Crime Laboratory dedicated all resources available to this investigation,” said Public Safety Commissioner Albert Santa Cruz. “Our citizens have been terrorized by these murders and we worked tirelessly to resolve them.”
Willie is being held on charges of aggravated assault, kidnapping and rape. Authorities will formally charge Willie with two counts of capital murder later today.
WJTV
Posted May 18, 2012 - 7:43 am
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Before he left office in January, Barbour nominated Reddix to serve on the board.
"(Barbour) knew about this association. I had given him an opportunity for me to rescind my name as a nominee and his office said that it was not an issue," Reddix said. "Abortion is not a huge public health issue for Mississippi women."
For four months, Reddix served on the board without a confirmation. He claims that the lieutenant governor kicked him off the board without even telling him.
WAPT
5/18/12
Posted May 18, 2012 - 7:37 am
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“It is a shame that former Governor Barbour abused the pardon power. It is even more of a travesty that a majority of the present Mississippi Supreme Court chose not to enforce the clear language in our State Constitution. The people will have to enforce the law by going through the initiative process to amend our Constitution to prevent this abuse of the pardon power and this travesty of justice from ever happening again. I pray no person becomes a victim of any of these pardoned criminals.”
Attorney General Jim Hood
State of Mississippi
Posted May 17, 2012 - 3:54 pm
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JACKSON –Gov. Phil Bryant today signed legislation requiring voters to show photo identification at all elections.
House Bill 921 enacts a state constitutional amendment that was approved by 62 percent of Mississippians in the 2011 general election. The bill also includes a provision allowing people without proper photo identification to apply for a free voter ID at the office of the county circuit clerk.
“This legislation is about protecting the integrity of Mississippi’s elections,” Bryant said. “This legislation is a direct result of the majority of Mississippians expressing their desire for a constitutional voter ID requirement in the state. We want everyone to participate in the election process, and we want that process to be fair and secure.”
Secretary of State Delbert Hosemann joined Bryant for the signing.
“This law implements a voter identification requirement Mississippians overwhelmingly demanded through the constitutional initiative process,” Hosemann said. “Mississippians want a vote to count just once, and they want the confidence the person is alive and a resident of this state when they cast it. This legislation helps us ensure that goal.”
The legislation also includes:
• A listing of acceptable forms of photo identification;
• A procedure to receive the vote of individuals without proper identification. These voters may cast an affidavit ballot. That vote will be counted if the voter within five days of the election presents an acceptable photo ID to the county circuit clerk.
Governor Phil Bryant Press Release
5/17/12
Posted May 17, 2012 - 10:25 am
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Another set of bills important to our local economy that had previously been killed in committee was passed this year. Three bills addressing the alcohol content in beer were passed and signed into law. Together, these new laws will bring Mississippi into line with the rest of the country as it relates to alcohol laws. Additionally, these new laws will allow the promotion of our local economy. More specifically, our local restaurants, retail, and the state’s only operating brewery, Lazy Magnolia will directly benefit by raising the legal limit of alcohol by weight in beer from 5% to 8%.
The Mississippi Legislature also passed a balanced budget that reserves $234 Million for use in future budgets. The 2013 Budget continued the trend of underfunding of MAEP- a legislative mandate that has been underfunded by approximately $700 million over the last 4 years. Additionally, the budget decreased university funding significantly. This decrease, coupled with the failure to pass a bond bill this year, will result in tuition increases of approximately 8% at our universities. The House bond proposal included $96 million for state universities for building renovations and repairs and capital projects, and $20 million for community colleges. The Senate refused to pass any bonds whatsoever. However, funding for community colleges did see an increase in the 2013 Budget. On the whole, the budget is fair and much better than the initial recommendation received from Governor Bryant.
Rep. David Baria
5/17/12
Posted May 17, 2012 - 8:23 am
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The Army Aviation Association of America, Magnolia Chapter recently elected Geoffrey Yoste to serve as a new board member and Vice President of Industry Affairs. Yoste, of Oxford, Mississippi, will be responsible for activities involving corporate relations and legislative affairs.
“I’m honored the membership elected me to this position and together with my fellow board members, I will strive to grow our membership and increase support and involvement with our corporate partners,” Yoste said.
The Army Aviation Association of America (Quad-A) supports the army aviation soldiers and their families through scholarships, recognitions, events and information. Additionally, the Magnolia Chapter promotes army aviation in Mississippi.
Geoffrey Yoste is a retired Mississippi Army National Guard Officer and serves as a Principal with Yoste Strategic Partners, LLC. Yoste Strategic Partners is a professional National Guard Business Development and Government Relations Consulting Practice. Yoste Strategic Partners is based out of Oxford, MS and works with clients and National Guard customers nationally. Yoste’s representative clients include, DRS Technologies, Patriot Taxiway Industries, Raytheon, and Vector Hawk Aerospace. Yoste’s other active association involvement include AGAUS, NGAUS and EANGUS.
AAAA Press Release
5/17/12
Posted May 17, 2012 - 7:26 am
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Customers who buy natural gas from the city of Pontotoc should see lower bills next month.
That's because the Mississippi Public Service Commission says it has found those customers have been overcharged for years with the city taking in an extra $3.3 million.
"Natural gas is at an all-time low, and the rates were not adjusted to take into account the reduction in natural gas prices," said Northern District Public Service Commissioner Brandon Presley. "And so the commission does not allow companies to make profits on the gas itself. They can only make funds on the operation and maintenance of the system."
WTVA
5/16/12
Posted May 17, 2012 - 7:25 am
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OVERHEARD: Former Senate Majority Leader Trent Lott (R-Miss.) telling Sen. Dick Lugar (R-Ind.), near the upper chamber’s Ohio Clock on Wednesday, “I’ll tell you what — life on the outside ain’t so bad!”
Lugar last week lost a primary challenge to Indiana’s state treasurer, Richard Mourdock. Lott is now a prominent lobbyist.
The Hill
5/16/12
Posted May 17, 2012 - 7:23 am
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State Sen. Billy C. Hudson, a partner with BDS Hudson Co., said his company has reached a settlement in a lawsuit filed by Channel Control Merchants - which owns the Treasure Hunt and Dirt Cheap brands.
He also said BCH & Co. in the Midtown Market shopping center on Hardy Street is closing its doors soon, although the building won't sit empty for long.
Hudson didn't have an exact closure date but said it will happen "pretty quickly."
"Another store will be going in the day after this one closes. I won't be involved in the new one," he said. "It takes more hours in the day to do both my Senate job and retail business."
Hattiesburg American
5/16/12
Posted May 17, 2012 - 7:21 am
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Mississippi Gov. Phil Bryant plans a ceremony Thursday to sign a voter ID bill.
The measure will become law only if it is approved by the U.S. Justice Department. Because of Mississippi's history of racial discrimination, federal approval is required for any change in election laws or procedures.
House Bill 921 would require each voter to show a driver's license, passport or other photo identification.
AP
5/16/12
Posted May 17, 2012 - 7:18 am
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Since when did Secretary of State Delbert Hosemann become the state’s chief legal officer? Last time I checked, Atty. Gen. Jim Hood was, under the 1890 state constitution, judicially established as the state’s chief legal officer.
Totally ignoring that fact, the politically-ambitious Delbert is telling the media he’s the state’s champion to confront the monstrous U.S. Department of Justice and keep it from blocking the state from imposing a new law requiring Mississippians to show an approved I.D. in order to vote.
“He (Hosemann) wants to be driving the train on the Voter I.D. issue,” says NAACP attorney Carroll Rhodes, “while driving it off the tracks.” Rhodes on behalf of the NAACP will oppose whichever legal move the state makes to put its new voting limitation into effect.
Bill Minor
5/16/12
Posted May 17, 2012 - 7:15 am
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We can’t lure cotton mills to Mississippi any more, but now we’re evidently going after marriage mills. Under a newly enacted law, we could become Reno South — wedding chapels, frock-tailed preachers and all.
Astonishingly, in one fell swoop, the Republican-controlled Legislature has wiped out the state’s 55-year-old law requiring a three-day waiting period and a blood test to get a marriage license. Gov. Phil Bryant, who seems to be the state’s self-proclaimed morality monitor, signed it.
Republican Sen. Melanie Sojourner of Natchez, the bill’s sponsor, said local tourism folks asked for the measure to lure more out-of-state couples to wed at the city’s stately old mansions. The freshman lawmaker said her research led her to believe an easier marriage law would be an incentive for more in-state couples to take wedding vows.
Bill Minor
5/17/12
Posted May 17, 2012 - 7:14 am
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At his speech here to the movers and shakers in the Mississippi Delta's business, agricultural, educational and political circles, Gov. Phil Bryant's remarks were met with more than polite applause. Bryant, the mechanic's son from Moorhead, understands the Delta region's challenges as lessons from his boyhood.
Bryant told the audience at the Delta Council's 77th annual meeting that he understood the interrelationship of higher education and agribusiness in that region. Bryant said: "As always, I am mindful of the impact that agriculture has on the economy of the Mississippi Delta. It is big business, and economists at Mississippi State University estimate that the activities associated with production agriculture in the Delta account for more than 1.5 billion dollars of annual income and employ more than 55 thousand people. We should support this industry, not only by treating it like the major employer that it is, but also by creating a minimal regulatory environment."
Sid Salter
5/15/12
Posted May 16, 2012 - 7:21 am
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A businessman who often travels, Jim Fraiser said his out-of-state clients used to joke about being surprised to find him wearing shoes.
Being barefoot is one of the stereotypes Mississippians face from outsiders who unfairly punish current residents for the state's past, some say.
The solution?
Invite the critics to experience Mississippi hospitality.
"People are going to think what they're going to think," Fraiser, 57, of Jackson, said. "All we can do is try to overcome that reputation, which we will do every time someone comes here and sees us."
Clarion Ledger
5/16/12
Posted May 16, 2012 - 7:20 am
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North Carolina's governor took a shot at Mississippi on the heels of what she saw as an embarrassing victory at the polls of a constitutional amendment defining marriage as between one man and one woman in her state.
Gov. Beverly Purdue told a crowd in Greenville, N.C., that people around the country must be confused at such an outcome in such a progressive state. "Folks are saying what in the world is going on in North Carolina," Purdue said. "We look like Mississippi."
Clarion Ledger via Hattiesburg American
5/15/12
Posted May 16, 2012 - 7:17 am
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Four bills that became law Monday, products of what Gov. Phil Bryant called "the most jobs-friendly legislative session in modern Mississippi history," affect businesses, workers, students and the growth of the health care industry.
Taking effect July 1 are laws that will boost the tax credit businesses can claim on inventory taxes, the creation of "health care industry zones" where medical businesses can cluster, dual-enrollment programs for high-school dropouts or those pondering leaving school and changes to the state's worker compensation laws.
The inventory-tax bill increases the amount businesses can claim in tax credits to offset the cost of inventory like commodities, products, goods and, for the first time, raw materials and works-in-process.
Clarion Ledger
5/14/12
Posted May 16, 2012 - 7:15 am
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While Mississippi has been continually ranked on or near the bottom of national lists related to health and economic issues, the state's resilience and core values also have landed it on good lists, state and community leaders say.
For the last six years, Mississippi has been named the most obese state, prompting former Gov. Haley Barbour and current Gov. Phil Bryant to put special emphasis on exercise and nutrition.
Under Barbour, the state instituted a push aimed at getting people to walk and watch their diet. And earlier this year Bryant announced a 5K run to promote exercise. The event is planned for June 30.
Clarion Ledger
5/16/12
Posted May 16, 2012 - 7:13 am
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Former Mississippi governor Haley Barbour thinks presumptive GOP nominee Mitt Romney should focus on President Obama's "failed" economic policies.
"Best thing for Republicans was for this election to be a referendum on Obama's record," the former RNC chairman said on "CBS This Morning" Monday. "Obama's record on economics and jobs, and the policies that he's put in place and how those policies have failed."
CBS News
5/14/12
Posted May 16, 2012 - 7:12 am
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The names of four Mississippi law officers who were killed in the line of duty have been added the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington.
Mississippi 's two U.S. senators, Thad Cochran and Roger Wicker , say in a news release that more than 360 names were added to the national memorial this year, including 162 officers killed in 2011.
They are Madison Police Patrolman James G. Brooks Sr., who was killed March 23, 2011; Grenada Police Capt. John W. Haddock, killed Oct. 7, 2011; DeSoto County Sheriff William P. Harris, killed Nov. 25, 1912; and McComb City Marshal Richard M. Cloy, killed July 8, 1891.
AP
5/15/12
Posted May 16, 2012 - 7:10 am
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Christensen’s compensation package includes:
◦The maximum amount of money that the state can pay for his salary is $183,000 a year, one-and-a-half times the governor’s salary.
◦A supplemental performance-based bonus of up to $47,000 based on how well Christensen meets Gov. Bryant’s economic development objectives.
◦A $15,000 relocation allowance is also included. Christensen currently lives in Gainesville, Fla.
◦A car is also provided, a historic provision for MDA directors that only Speed rejected.
“If we had not been able to do that then we wouldn’t have been able to pay (Christensen) more than what he was making in Florida,” Barksdale said.
“It was a necessity. Several other states do it this way. We do that within the state for several jobs. That’s how we pay our football coaches so much money in this state.”
MBJ
5/16/12
Posted May 16, 2012 - 6:29 am
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Gov. Phil Bryant has named Brent Christensen as executive director of the Mississippi Development Authority.
Christensen began his career in Mississippi at the Area Development Partnership in Hattiesburg. For the past 10 years, he has served as president and CEO of the Gainesville Area Chamber of Commerce in Gainesville, Fla.
So it looks as if some members of the House Democratic Black Caucus aren't as upset with their Republican counterparts as white Democrats would have you believe.
Democratic Rep. Charles Young attended a Meridian community meeting Monday where WTOK reports that Young said "all of the districts are very well grouped. I think the majority of them are very concise, very compact." Young also stated, "We reduced the number of split precincts from the 400s to down to a little over a hundred. The number of minority districts has been increased."
Notice the term "we."
Young's comments aren't a surprise. Yes, he was one of the Democrats that voted against the House and Senate plans, as did all the Black Caucus members in the House. However, from the talk around the Capitol they overwhelmingly like the redistricting plans, recognize them as fair, and want to see the DOJ approve the maps in short order.
This goes a long way toward taking the sting out of a possible Democratic challenge while strengthening the Republican case that indeed these maps are viable.
Posted May 15, 2012 - 10:00 am
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State Rep. Tommy Woods, R-Byhalia, is retiring from the Mississippi House of Representatives after serving more than 25 years in the state Legislature.
In a phone interview Monday, Woods said he has not officially tendered his resignation to House Speaker Philip Gunn but plans to do so.
"I have really enjoyed doing my job and representing the people," Woods said Monday from his Byhalia home. "It has really been a blessing. I hate to have to step down but my doctor says I have to."
Desoto Times Tribune
Posted May 15, 2012 - 7:27 am
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Man pardoned by Mississippi's Barbour charged in fatal crash
A convicted drunk driver pardoned by former Mississippi Governor Haley Barbour in January has been charged with driving under the influence, accused of leaving the scene of an accident that killed an 18-year-old woman.
Harry Bostick, a retired IRS agent who had been convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol three times previously, was freed from jail on a $50,000 bond after being charged last week with driving under the influence.
Bostick was accused of slamming into a car in Mississippi in October being driven by 18-year-old Charity Smith, then leaving the scene. He is also charged with a death caused by driving under the influence (DUI). He was indicted on the charges by a Mississippi grand jury on May 10, according to a court document obtained by Reuters.
Reuters
5/14/12
Posted May 15, 2012 - 7:27 am
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Gov. Bev Perdue has spoken to Mississippi's governor after she criticized the approval of last week's referendum banning gay marriage by saying it made North Carolina "look like Mississippi."
But her spokesman said Perdue didn't apologize for her remarks.
Perdue spokesman Mark Johnson said Perdue had a very good discussion Monday with Mississippi Gov. Phil Bryant, who said last Friday that he was disappointed with Perdue's comments during a Pitt County visit.
Winston Salem Journal
5/15/12
Posted May 15, 2012 - 7:25 am
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The two leaders spoke by phone Monday to clear the air.
"I thought we had a really good conversation about public policy between North Carolina and Mississippi," Perdue said.
Still, she said, her comments were only meant to express confusion about how a state that had stood up to improve race relations decades ago could approve the amendment.
"(It's a fact) that Mississippi, for years, tended to be more conservative and North Carolina tended to be more progressive," she said. "I did tell (Bryant) that, after everybody spent their money in North Carolina, we would encourage them to go on to Mississippi, because it is a great state with great people."
Bryant said his conversation with Perdue was "disappointing" and that her characterization of Mississippi is inaccurate.
WRAL
5/14/12
Posted May 15, 2012 - 7:25 am
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Add former Republican National Committee chairman Haley Barbour to the list of people who say Mitt Romney doesn't need to pick a "game changer" to be his running mate.
Barbour, who recently completed two terms as Mississippi governor, told CBS News today that Romney needs to follow the "Hippocratic oath" and select someone who will "do no harm" to his candidacy.
"To pick a VP thinking it's going to be a game changer that would be highly, highly unlikely and unusual," Barbour said. The "threshold question is: is this person qualified to be president" if something should happen to the White House occupant?
USA Today
5/14/12
Posted May 15, 2012 - 7:22 am
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With his signature, Governor Phil Bryant inked four pieces of legislation into law Monday, all of them part of his Mississippi Works Agenda.
"This was the most job friendly, business friendly legislative session in modern Mississippi history," said Bryant.
First to get the approval of the governor was the Health Care Industry Zone Act, aimed at expanding the state's healthcare economy and improving access to it. The new law creates health care zones throughout the state and provides tax incentives for health care businesses that create new, permanent jobs.
"I'm very proud of that innovative piece of legislation. I think it's going to create thousands of jobs in the healthcare industry," said Bryant.
WLOX
5/14/12
Posted May 15, 2012 - 7:19 am
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However, Ms. Fowler is not done as she moves from Kenneth Stokes civics lessons to using a favorite trick of the liberals: comparing a Republican to Hitler. Yup, Jeff Smith's client compares the Lieutenant Governor to Hitler. Not even Cottonchicken is this bad, or Ricky Cole, and he can engage in some serious histrionics. Here it is:
"Known for his frugality, Reeves served two terms as the state treasurer and based his campaign for lieutenant governor on his financially conservative record. Reeves ran against opponent Billy Hewes on the platform that he would not issue any bonds. However, according to multiple sources in Jackson, Reeves is quickly becoming known for his unwavering political stance, with Democrats and Republicans alike beginning to refer to him as “Hitler.”
Jackson Jambalaya
5/15/12
Posted May 15, 2012 - 7:18 am
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An order Weill issued Thursday found that documents Eaton produced last month should have been produced in 2008. Weill also ordered Eaton to produce, within seven days, basically every document Eaton has that is related to the Peters/DeLaughter matter.
Weill also ordered a number of Eaton employees – including CEO Alexander Cutler – and the company’s in-house and outside counsel to provide sworn affidavits that outline why the documents produced last month were previously withheld, and to explain why any documents produced as the result of the order were withheld.
Mississippi could execute men on three consecutive days in June.
Attorney General Jim Hood's office is asking the state Supreme Court to set execution dates for three men, one each on June 12, 13 and 14.
Hood's office made the request Monday after the U.S. Supreme Court refused to hear appeals of Henry Curtis Jackson Jr., Gary Carl Simmons Jr. and Jan Michael Brawner.
AP
5/14/12
Posted May 15, 2012 - 7:15 am
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By Rep. Gregg Harper
Special to Roll Call
May 14, 2012, Midnight
Every day in schools across the United States, students are being subjected to barbaric and potentially deadly treatment in the form of seclusion and restraint.
According to leading education researchers and child trauma experts, as well as the Government Accountability Office, the use of these practices — which include forcibly pinning students to the ground, strapping them to chairs or locking them in closets — is dangerous and traumatic for everyone involved, including teachers, other school personnel and students. Their use has been linked to physical and emotional harm and even death. It is a practice that amounts to institutionalized child abuse, and it has no place in our schools.
Posted May 15, 2012 - 7:13 am
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Suppose you finally receive that call you'd been waiting on. They want you to interview for the job. You need the work and know you have to put your best face forward. You head to the interview and they call you in. You sit down and as your prospective employer is going through your resume, he asks for your Facebook, Twitter, and any other social media passwords you may have so he can "see the real you."
Or suppose you were called into your boss' office and he says it's important that you are representing the company well at all times. He then demands that you turn over your Facebook password or face disciplinary action, even termination.
What would you do?
Most may say they would refuse to provide the information but if you really need the job you may feel like you have no other choice but to comply with the demand.
Such a practice is an invasion of privacy, intimidates jobseekers and employees, and over reaches, especially if these avenues are protected and not readily available in the public domain.
Maryland became the first state to prohibit employers from demanding applicants or workers provide their username and password for social media sites. The bill easily passed the Maryland General Assembly with true bipartisan support. It restricts employers from accessing password-protected content and ends the intimidation factor while ensuring the privacy of citizens.
Mississippi needs to follow suit and pass a Social Media Privacy Bill soon. Legislators should join together - Democrats and Republicans - and protect Mississippians' privacy now before such a practice becomes the norm for Magnolia State workers.
It is far better to be safe than sorry, especially when it deals with citizens' privacy and our freedoms.
Posted May 14, 2012 - 3:03 pm
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With the Republican sweep of the state last fall, District 28 finally got a Republican legislator. Thanks to Rep. Bill Denny of Jackson, the chair of the of House redistricting Committee and and his new-fangled map, District 28 was thrown under the bus and into DeSoto County — 90 miles away. An important Delta seat is now dead.
To be fair, Tommy Taylor was near death’s door when he ran last fall and has been in Jackson less than two weeks this entire session, so his future as a representative has been tenuous. But Republicans, instead of using at least one legislative voice to promote their will in the Delta, are now content to dictate from Jackson what the Delta must endure.
Even Taylor showed up to vote for the redistricting map. Earlier that day he voted “yes” on the Republican’s Voter ID law. But when it came time to vote to save his own district he couldn’t pull the trigger either way. He simply voted “present” and let the state Republican Party do the dirty work of further isolating the Mississippi Delta from the rest of our state.
MS Business Journal Editorial
5/11/12
Posted May 14, 2012 - 2:16 pm
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Last November, Republicans finally took control of the House of Representatives here, the final victory of the party’s long Southern strategy. Not since Reconstruction had the GOP controlled every facet of political life. It wasn’t just any ol’ Republicans either; former Governor Haley Barbour is considered a moderate now. Governor Phil Bryant is a creature of the Tea Party. Though this is not a border state, every aspect of political life was aligned to follow in the footsteps of Arizona, Alabama, and Georgia in passing sweeping state laws against illegal immigration.
But something surprising happened in the Magnolia State. While liberals and immigration rights advocates were pinning futile hopes on the Supreme Court invalidating Arizona’s anti-immigrant law, lest other conservative states stampede to pass similar bills, Mississippi conservatives quietly shelved their own version. It now appears that Arizona-type laws are more likely to suffer their demise at the hands of politics rather than judges.
Boston Globe
5/14/12
Posted May 14, 2012 - 7:57 am
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Former Mississippi's governor Haley Barbour weighed in on President Obama’s endorsement of gay marriage on Monday, saying that the decision was all about politics.
“This is about politics. And the gay lobbying, homosexual groups in the Democratic Party are very, very powerful,” said Barbour, a Republican, on CBS' This Morning. “It will be very interesting to see how the gay groups look at President Obama saying, well, I’m for homosexual marriage but we’ll let the states decide. I think that’s unpopular.”
National Journal
5/14/12
Posted May 14, 2012 - 7:56 am
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People in Mississippi will be able to buy stronger beer and get quicker access to marriage licenses. Residents might have to show a photo ID before voting. Students will pay more to earn a university degree.
These are just some of ways everyday life will be affected by decisions Mississippi legislators made during the 2012 session. For example:
— Senate Bill 2878, which becomes law July 1, allows the sale of beer with alcohol content of up to 8 percent by weight, above the current 5 percent limit. A group called Raise Your Pints lobbied for the change for three years, saying thousands of Mississippians have been driving to surrounding states to buy craft beers that aren't available here.
...
AP
5/14/12
Posted May 14, 2012 - 7:55 am
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Gov. Phil Bryant is almost certain to sign a bill intended to crimp the attorney general’s power to hire outside counsel -- private-sector lawyers -- to handle litigation on the state’s behalf on a fee contingency basis (a share of any money damages awarded the state).
The incumbent, Jim Hood, cries politics over the bill and asserts it’s unconstitutional.
The bill is inarguably political, and a court probably will have to decide Hood’s claims of unconstitutionality.
Hood, and his immediate predecessor, Mike Moore, legally hired some of the best trial lawyers in Mississippi to sue on the state’s behalf on a contingency basis. Both Hood and Moore are Democrats and on the opposite side are anti-plaintiffs’-lawyer Republicans.
Daily Journal vis The Sun Hearld
5/13/12
Posted May 14, 2012 - 7:45 am
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MSNBC anchor Andrea Mitchell conducted a contentious interview with former Mississippi Gov. Haley Barbour on Friday. Barbour insisted that the Obama campaign will not be about substance but will rely on surrogates have attacked Mitt Romney’s on such issues as his Mormonism. Mitchell replied that his assertion was untrue and a debate about the statements of surrogates would be a “very dark tunnel to get into.”
Mitchell first asserted that President Obama’s execution of American foreign policy has been a “big advantage,” so “why shouldn’t the bin Laden moment be his best argument? As [Vice President] Joe Biden said, Osama bin Laden is dead and General Motors is alive.”
Barbour conceded that the killing of bin Laden represents an unequivocal success for Obama and the nation. However, “the idea that foreign policy is Obama’s great streghnth I think actually makes another statement,” Barbour said. “The economy is so bad, his energy policy is so failed, his heatlh care plan is so unpopular that of the four foreign policy looks pretty good.”
Mediate
5/27/12
Posted May 14, 2012 - 7:41 am
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Years ago, when I first met Trent Lott, I was impressed. He was savvy, conservative and unbeatable on the campaign trail. The people of Mississippi elected him to six terms in the U.S. House of Representatives and three terms in the U.S. Senate, giving him a career in Congress spanning 35 years. His ability was recognized by his colleagues who elected him to leadership positions in both the House and Senate, which be-speaks of a man of power and influence.
When Lott suddenly announced his intention to resign in 2007, there was much speculation as to why. Certainly being dethroned as Senate majority leader after the Strom Thurmond fiasco; the indictment of his brother-in-law, Dickie Scruggs, and Lott's alleged involvement; and the impending Honest Leadership and Open Government Act which would forbid lawmakers from lobbying for two years after leaving office; could have contributed to his stepping down.
Dot Ward
5/11/12
Posted May 14, 2012 - 7:40 am
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Recent graduates have joined an exclusive group, since only 6.7 percent of the world’s population has a college diploma, U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker told University of Mississippi graduates today in the Grove, while rain threatened but never materialized.
"You are part of a very elite group, you have a lot of people to share the credit with and we are expecting a lot from you. In fact, we have a lot riding on your success," said Wicker, R-Tupelo, who has been heralded for his statesmanship and diplomacy at the state and federal level.
Clarion Ledger
5/12/12
Posted May 14, 2012 - 7:36 am
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A Mississippi judge has ordered Eaton Corp. Chief Executive Alexander Cutler to produce a sworn affidavit within seven days explaining why two email strings were withheld from documents the company was supposed to turn over years ago in a tangled trade-secrets case.
Hinds County Circuit Judge Jeff Weill also ordered Cutler to come up with a proposed sanction against Eaton for "its most recent failure to comply" with court orders to produce records.
The Cleveland-based global manufacturer said Friday that it gave the emails to the court April 17 after recently learning they were "inadvertently not included" in records it was supposed to turn over. The email exchanges were between Eaton lawyers and a Mississippi attorney whom Eaton hired in the trades-secrets case. Eaton said it intends to fully comply with Weill's order.
Plain Dealer
5/12/12
Posted May 14, 2012 - 7:32 am
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May 12,2012 - Wicker Presses for Long-Term NFIP Reauthorization as Deadline Looms
Miss. Senator Supports Using Data to Help Determine Water Damage from Hurricanes
WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) on Wednesday urged action on a long-term reauthorization of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) at a Senate Banking subcommittee hearing. A current extension of the program is set to expire on May 31.
“NFIP is in dire need of reform and long-term reauthorization,” said Wicker. “There is bipartisan support in the Senate to reauthorize NFIP, but the Majority Leader has refused to bring this bill to the floor. Short-term extensions lack the changes needed to make the program viable.”
NFIP was last authorized in 2004. The program has been operating under a series of short-term extensions since 2008. This Congress, five-year reauthorizations have passed the full House and the Senate Banking Committee, but they have been stalled since committee passage last September. These bills include reforms designed to restore the program’s solvency and protect taxpayers.
During Senate markup, an agreement was reached with the Banking Committee Chairman and Ranking Member to add an amendment Wicker authored, known as the COASTAL Amendment, when the bill is considered by the full Senate.
The COASTAL Amendment would use hurricane data collected by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration in conjunction with engineering formulas to be developed by FEMA to double check flood insurance claims for total-loss, “slab” properties.
Use of the COASTAL formula will help prevent the inappropriate shifting of wind claims to the flood program and will empower consumers by providing a better estimation of wind versus water losses.
Wicker News Release
Posted May 14, 2012 - 7:30 am
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Gov. Phil Bryant said Friday that he supports a new levee to protect a flood-prone rural area along the Yazoo River north of Vicksburg that was damaged in last year's Mississippi River flood.
Bryant made the pledge to the annual meeting of the Delta Council, held at Delta State University.
The west bank of the Yazoo, running north through parts of Warren, Yazoo and Humphreys counties, is unprotected by levees, as is a section of the east bank in Yazoo County. The area floods when the Mississippi River rises and water backs up the Yazoo. In 2011, 200,000 acres in the region were submerged, officials say. Most of that was farmland, but hundreds of structures were also damaged.
"The plan is designed to hold back the floods that occurred along the Yazoo River and around Carter and Rocky Bayou," Bryant said. "We stand with you to avert these disasters."
AP
5/11/12
Posted May 14, 2012 - 7:27 am
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North Carolina Democratic Governor opens mouth, inserts liberal left foot
by Frank Corder
North Carolina's Democratic Governor Beverly Perdue opened her mouth and inserted her liberal left foot.
This week North Carolina became the latest state to enact a ban on same sex marriage, frustrating liberals everywhere and forcing President Obama off his own fence regarding the issue.
North Carolina voters approved the constitutional amendment with 61% of the vote.
In the wake of such an overwhelming moral victory for conservatives, Perdue offered this to the media:
"People around the country are watching us and they're really confused to have been such a progressive forward thinking economically driven state that invested in education and that stood up for the civil rights people including the civil rights marches back in the '50s and '60s and '70s," Perdue said. "People are saying, 'What in the world is going on with North Carolina?' We look like Mississippi."
Look like Mississippi, eh?
North Carolina would do well to look like Mississippi on such conservative ideological fronts. After all, the same sex marriage debate should rightfully be handled by the states and if voters in North Carolina, Mississippi, or any other state want to enact such a ban by an overwhelming majority, then by all means, the elected officials in those states should follow the lead of their voters and abide by their wishes, not deflect the issue for personal political cover while attempting to demean a sister state's residents.
The reaction was swift from Mississippi's top two officials.
Governor Phil Bryant offered this:
"I am certainly disappointed by Gov. Perdue's statement regarding North Carolina's 'looking like Mississippi.' Apparently, North Carolina's voters are much more in line with Mississippi's traditional values on marriage than those of Gov. Perdue."
Lt. Governor Tate Reeves went further with his disdain for the remarks:
“Governor Perdue should know that her administration has a lot of work to do to make her state’s business climate ‘look like Mississippi.’ We are creating an environment which encourages the private sector to invest capital in Mississippi, and I would invite any North Carolina-based company wanting to move to a lower-taxed, less-regulated state to look at our business-friendly opportunities.
“In fact, the Tax Foundation ranks Mississippi as the 17th best in the country in its latest State Business Tax Climate Index, while Governor Perdue’s policies have dropped her state among the six worst in America. The business-friendly policies enacted in Mississippi have reduced our unemployment rate to 9 percent, according to the latest numbers released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Meanwhile, Governor Perdue’s home state’s unemployment rate remained significantly higher than Mississippi’s at nearly 10 percent.”
Joe Nosef, Chairman of the Mississippi Republican Party added:
"Thirty-two states have voted on the issue of defining marriage. Thirty-two states have voted in favor of traditional marriage. Gov. Perdue is obviously out of touch with the voters of her own state and is trying to change the subject by attacking Mississippi. We are proud to stand with North Carolina and the majority of other states in our country who have supported traditional marriage."
Perhaps Governor Perdue should listen to her voters in North Carolina more than the whims and political rhetoric coming out of her national political party of choice.
But Democrats in Mississippi have the same problem - they just can't break away from that liberal noose around their necks.
Posted May 11, 2012 - 4:22 pm
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There is, of course, an argument that our modern world is awash with heroes, but we know better.
Politicians, athletes, movie stars and pop singers all command attention as never before. And although many people gush over the famous, there is something distinctly un-heroic about most.
In an age of celebrity, real heroes and role models are difficult to identify. We often lack proper examples, it would seem.
But even today, by dint of character and integrity, some have a superior claim on our respect and admiration.
A man of quite intensity, Dr. James Moye was one of those people – an unsung pioneer, a relic of a noble era, among the last of his kind.
He was born on February 9, 1921, as an only son. His mother’s little friend, he had a mischievous twinkle in his eyes.
Raised in Laurel, Mississippi, he then entered the Army Air Corp, becoming a commissioned pilot in 1943. After serving 14 months as a flight instructor, he was assigned to the 451 Bomb Group in Italy during World War II.
No doubt, he was a man of courage.
Later that year, on Friday, October 13 at 1300 hours, he was shot down over Vienna, Austria while flying his 13th combat mission.
No doubt, he was a man of bravery.
After being captured by German soldiers, he spent eight months in prison camps, moving from location to location. Then, after two failed escape attempts, he was successful on the third, returning to the Allies just prior to the war’s end.
No doubt, he was a man of determination.
Just prior to entering the war, he married his childhood sweetheart and best friend, Mae Eleanor Freeman. They were married for 68 years.
No doubt, he was a man of loyalty.
Upon his discharge from the service, he enrolled in the Southern College of Optometry, graduating in 1947. He and his wife returned to Laurel where he began his optometric practice. He worked until his 80th birthday in 2001.
No doubt, he was a man of devotion.
Active in numerous organizations, he served his state and nation in many capacities. He was President of the Mississippi Optometric Association for two years. He was both Chairman and Member of the American Optometric Association Practice Administration Committee and worked on the American Optometric Association Interprofessional Relations Committee, just to name a few. He also served on the State Board of Health.
No doubt, he was a man of sacrifice.
Determined to thank the Red Cross for its help when he was a prisoner of war, he served as a Board Member and Chairman of the Red Cross of Jones County, working with the group for more than 50 years.
No doubt, he was a man of compassion.
A member of the Republican Party for 60 years, Dr. Moye is recognized as one of the founding fathers of the Mississippi GOP. He was a delegate to national conventions in 1964, 1968 and 1980. He likewise served as a Republican National Committeeman and a member of the National Republican Executive Committee.
No doubt, he was a man of conviction.
He was active in the Presbyterian Church, serving as a charter member of Trinity Presbyterian Church and later Covenant Presbyterian Church. He taught Sunday School continually for more than 60 years.
No doubt, he was a man of faithfulness.
He is survived by his wife of 68 years, two daughters, two sons-in-law, six grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren and a host of nieces and nephews.
No doubt, he will be missed.
By any definition, he had all the qualities of an storybook hero -- a person of honor, by instinct, by inevitability.
He never admitted it, never thought of it; but through his life, he has won a glorious name, along with the everlasting remembrance wherein his renown is enshrined -- within the hearts of those who were blessed to know him. Such is the whispered promise of immortality reserved for a fortunate few.
To those who say modernity will bring nightfall to the age of heroes, you underestimate our resolve and the legacy of our friend.
If you are still looking for a role model, then look no further.
And if you are seeking hope in a culture corrupted by cynicism, then take this fine man for your example.
***** State Senator Chris McDaniel
Posted May 11, 2012 - 4:15 pm
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Mississippi Republican Party Chairman Joe Nosef responds to comments from North Carolina Gov. Beverly Perdue:
"Thirty-two states have voted on the issue of defining marriage. Thirty-two states have voted in favor of traditional marriage. Gov. Perdue is obviously out of touch with the voters of her own state and is trying to change the subject by attacking Mississippi. We are proud to stand with North Carolina and the majority of other states in our country who have supported traditional marriage."
Posted May 11, 2012 - 4:13 pm
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GOV. PHIL BRYANT STATEMENT IN RESPONSE TO GOV. PERDUE'S DEROGATORY REMARKS ABOUT MISSISSIPPI
JACKSON—Gov. Phil Bryant issued the following statement in response to the derogatory remarks about Mississippi made by North Carolina Gov. Beverly Perdue:
"I am certainly disappointed by Gov. Perdue's statement regarding North Carolina's 'looking like Mississippi.' Apparently, North Carolina's voters are much more in line with Mississippi's traditional values on marriage than those of Gov. Perdue."
Gov. Phil Bryant Press Release
5/11/12
Posted May 11, 2012 - 2:53 pm
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STATEMENT OF LT. GOV. REEVES ON GOV. PERDUE’S DISPARAGING COMMENTS
“Governor Perdue should know that her administration has a lot of work to do to make her state’s business climate ‘look like Mississippi.’ We are creating an environment which encourages the private sector to invest capital in Mississippi, and I would invite any North Carolina-based company wanting to move to a lower-taxed, less-regulated state to look at our business-friendly opportunities.
“In fact, the Tax Foundation ranks Mississippi as the 17th best in the country in its latest State Business Tax Climate Index, while Governor Perdue’s policies have dropped her state among the six worst in America. The business-friendly policies enacted in Mississippi have reduced our unemployment rate to 9 percent, according to the latest numbers released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Meanwhile, Governor Perdue’s home state’s unemployment rate remained significantly higher than Mississippi’s at nearly 10 percent.”
LG Tate Reeves Press Release
5/11/12
Posted May 11, 2012 - 2:52 pm
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North Carolina Governor Beverly Perdue had strong words Friday when asked about Tuesday's vote on Amendment One.
"We look like Mississippi," the governor told reporters during a visit to Greenville this morning.
Unofficial returns show the amendment - which defines marriage solely as a union between a man and a woman - passed with about 61 percent of the vote to 39 percent against.
North Carolina is the 30th state to adopt such a ban on gay marriage.
State law already prohibited same-sex marriages. Supporters said they wanted to write it into the constitution to further protect traditional marriage.
WWAY
5/11/12
Posted May 11, 2012 - 12:28 pm
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Earlier today, Rep. Earle S. Banks announced he will be a candidate for the Mississippi Supreme Court. Banks intends to begin visiting the twenty-one counties that comprise Supreme Court District 1 this weekend.
“For far too long, our Supreme Court has acted as if its sole purpose is to protect big corporations and out-of-state interests,” Banks said. “I am entering this race because I want to be part of a judicial system that treats every Mississippian with fairness and dignity.”
Rep. Banks is a lifelong resident of Jackson, Mississippi. He graduated from St. Joseph High School, received a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from Jackson State University in 1977 and Juris Doctorate from Mississippi College School of Law in 1981.
Rep. Banks believes his decades of experience as the president of a large Mississippi business, Peoples Funeral Home, helps give him a balanced perspective on the law. While running his Mississippi business, Banks has also served as a partner in the law firm of Dockins, Turnage & Banks, utilizing his thirty-one years of legal experience in both ventures.
Consistent with the non-partisan values which govern judicial elections, Banks withdrew as a member of the Mississippi Democratic Party Executive Committee this afternoon.
Rep. Banks is a member of the Mississippi Bar Association and Magnolia Bar Association. His civic affiliations include the American Red Cross, YMCA, 100 Black Men, Georgetown Community Association, National Black Caucus of State Legislators, the National Funeral Directors and Morticians Association and the International Cemetery and Funeral Association.
Rep. Banks has represented Hinds County in the Mississippi House of Representatives since 1992. He currently serves as a member of the Appropriations, Judiciary A, Public Property and Public Utilities committees as well chairman of the House committee for Enrolled Bills.
Rep. Banks has three children, Kimberly, Earle, Jr. and Yve and two grandchildren. Banks is a cousin of former Supreme Court Justice Fred L. Banks, Jr. who is currently in private practice at Phelps Dunbar, L.L.P.
Rep. Earle Banks Press Release
5/11/12
Posted May 11, 2012 - 8:13 am
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“Competent” is perhaps the word admirers use most frequently to describe Jindal after “brilliant,” and his ability to get things done was a trait he demonstrated throughout the crisis in the Gulf region. For weeks, Jindal was a near-constant figure at the frontlines of the spill, and he hit the right political notes with Republicans by frequently butting heads with the Obama administration, demanding that federal officials be more proactive in their response and taking matters into his own hands when he deemed doing so appropriate.
“The difference between him after the BP oil spill and his Democratic predecessor [Gov. Kathleen Blanco] after Katrina could hardly have been more stark,” Mississippi Gov. Haley Barbour -- whose neighboring state suffered a lesser impact from the most recent environmental disaster in the Gulf -- told RCP. “He was decisive, he was knowledgeable, and he was working hard for his people. There was never any question -- there was no uncertainty.”
Real Clear Politics
5/11/12
Posted May 11, 2012 - 7:39 am
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Gov. Phil Bryant says he is happy with the most recent legislative session, which wrapped up last week.
"It was the most business- friendly session in modern history," he said Thursday during a visit to Hattiesburg for the College of Business groundbreaking at the University of Southern Mississippi.
Bryant made his comments during a media briefing with local reporters after the groundbreaking.
Hattiesburg American
5/10/12
Posted May 11, 2012 - 7:11 am
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The U.S. Postal Service, under pressure from lawmakers, including Mississippi’s U.S. senators, is proposing cutting back retail hours at post offices instead of closing them altogether -- a boon to more than 200 post offices in the Magnolia State including three communities in Coastal counties, McHenry, McNeill, and Nicholson.
The U.S. Postal Service projects losses of $14 billion this year and is asking Congress for the go-ahead for a comprehensive overhaul law. But while the bill is still being considered on Capitol Hill, the Postal Service wanted to close 3,700 little-used post offices by May 15.
Lawmakers balked, with 43 senators, including GOP Sens. Thad Cochran and Roger Wicker, writing the postmaster general asking for a moratorium.
Sun Herald
5/10/12
Posted May 11, 2012 - 7:08 am
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Speaker Gunn wishes to share his thanks and appreciation to those involved with helping to bring a terrible matter to a final resolution:
"Our local law enforcement, highway patrol, and wildlife and fisheries officials put an end to a horrible situation in North Mississippi tonight. Their fine work should not go unnoticed. Our prayers go out to the families affected by these horrific crimes, and we are thankful that these two children's lives were saved in the end." - Philip Gunn
Posted May 11, 2012 - 7:05 am
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Wicker played SuperPAC Man -- which meant he carried a checkbook -- who was auditioning for the role of Prince Escalus.
When Wicker’s character tells the director that he runs a conservative SuperPAC called “Prosperous Americans for a Prosperous Future for Prosperous Americans,” two lawmakers playing a Tea Party Republican and a Senate Republican freeze.
“Watch this,” Wicker tells the director as he claps twice. The members drop to their knees.
“God bless America,” grinned Wicker.
Sun Herald
5/10/12
Posted May 11, 2012 - 6:59 am
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As part of a national trend towards states adopting voter ID laws, about 62 percent of Mississippi voters approved a referendum in 2011 that would require voters to show a photo ID before being allowed to vote. But the failure of similar laws in other states to be approved by the U.S. Dept. of Justice (DOJ) has led to questions about whether Mississippi’s new law will receive clearance from the DOJ and, if so, if it will be in time for the November presidential elections.
Sec. of State Delbert Hosemann said careful planning has been done in drafting legislation to implement the state’s voter ID requirement to address the kinds of concerns that led to voter ID laws in others states such as Texas and South Carolina not being approved by the DOJ.
Hosemann met with representatives of the DOJ to review the history of states where voter ID bills were approved. He said he told the DOJ the State of Mississippi wants to adopt a voter ID bill that meets all constitutional requirements at minimal cost to the taxpayers.
Delta Business Journal
May 2012
Posted May 11, 2012 - 6:55 am
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"The difference between him after the BP oil spill and his Democratic predecessor [Gov. Kathleen Blanco] after Katrina could hardly have been more stark," Mississippi Gov. Haley Barbour -- whose neighboring state suffered a lesser impact from the most recent environmental disaster in the Gulf -- told RCP. "He was decisive, he was knowledgeable, and he was working hard for his people. There was never any question -- there was no uncertainty."
Barbour, who considered a presidential bid last year and remains one of the most well-connected members of the national Republican establishment, said he had "no idea" whom Romney would pick as his running mate but praised Jindal as "extremely capable" and "genuinely knowledgeable about public policy."
"Plus he's a very nice guy -- pretty family and a good person," Barbour said. "He's just got a tremendous capacity."
Barbour was one of several Republicans interviewed for this story who downplayed apprehensions about Jindal's communications skills -- concerns that continue to simmer as Romney's eventual running mate will be called upon to inject new energy into his campaign.
"I remember people saying in 1992 about Bill Clinton, 'The only thing anybody really knows him for is that terrible speech he made at the Democratic convention in 1988,' " Barbour said. "That didn't turn out to be the only thing they knew about him. The same's true with Bobby."
Real Clear Politics via CBS News
5/10/12
Posted May 11, 2012 - 6:51 am
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The Mississippi NAACP is asking federal officials to block what will likely become the state's new voter ID law, contending it will violate the 1965 Voting Rights Act by diminishing the voting strength of minorities.
Because of Mississippi's history of racial discrimination, the state is required to get federal approval for any changes in election laws or procedures.
Supporters of the voter ID law say it's needed to protect the integrity of elections. Opponents say it could suppress turnout among poor, elderly or minority voters.
"The presumption is because of Mississippi's history of discrimination against black citizens and denying black citizens the right to vote, any voting change could not be pre-cleared unless the state proves it does not discriminate," said Carroll Rhodes of Hazlehurst, an attorney for the state chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People. "We feel certain the state cannot meet that burden of proof."
AP
5/10/12
Posted May 11, 2012 - 6:50 am
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Wicker and Cochran Push Student Loan Rate Extension Without Tax Hikes on Small Businesses
Sen. Roger F. Wicker (R-MS) News Release
May 10, 2012 (Congressional Documents and Publications/ContentWorks via COMTEX) -- WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senators Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) and Thad Cochran (R-Miss.) today encouraged Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) to allow a vote on a proposal they support to extend the current interest rate for student loans.
Cochran and Wicker on Tuesday opposed a Democrat-backed measure to pay for the legislation with tax increases on small businesses. The Mississippi Senators called for a vote on an alternative they cosponsored, the Interest Rate Reduction Act, S.2366. This plan would extend the temporary Stafford-subsidized student loan rate of 3.4 percent without raising taxes.
"Many recent college graduates are facing a higher interest rate but have no way to repay their student loans because they have not been able to find a job," said Wicker. "Both sides agree that we should extend the current rate, but the President and Senate Democrats have decided to play political games first. Republicans introduced sensible legislation that would help these recent graduates without hiking taxes on those who are trying to create jobs. Senator Reid should allow us to vote on it."
"The students who rely on these loans are being used for political gamesmanship, which is regrettable. The slow economic recovery and rising college costs represent burdens for college students and their families," Cochran said. "It is important that we find a reasonable solution to this situation. There is broad support for extending current interest rates on student loans. I am hopeful we can soon reach an agreement to do just that."
A Senate vote has not been allowed on S.2366, which would offset the cost of the student loan interest rate extension by tapping $6 billion from a fund created by the Affordable Care Act, the health care reform law enacted in 2010. This fund has been used previously to offset the costs of other government spending. S.2366 is identical to a House-passed measure.
The 2011-2012 Stafford-subsidized student loan rate, 3.4 percent, is set to double to 6.8 percent because the College Cost Reduction and Access Act which temporarily lowered rates, expires on July 1. Approximately 7.4 million undergraduate student borrowers would be impacted.
The rate increase comes as many recent college graduates encounter a difficult job market. According to a recent analysis by the Associated Press, over half of Americans under the age of 25 with a bachelor's degree are jobless or underemployed.
Voter fraud is a BIG problem in our state. Election Commissioners can correct the problem by ensuring honest elections by removing dead or otherwise non-qualified voters from the rolls. We need Mississippi Tea Party patriots serving as Commissioners each of our counties.
Qualifying deadline is June 4.
You must have at least 50 signatures on the Registration form and the signatures must reside in your supervisory district of your county. Download the form from the Secretary of State's website.
It costs you nothing
Questions or need assistance?
Contact Janis Lane, President of the Central MS Tea Party at 770-367-7888 or janisdlane@gmail.com
Or, contact Amanda Frusha with Delbert Hosemann's Office, Elections Division, at 601-359-5213.
Gay rights advocates cheered Obama's declaration, which they had long urged him to make.
But for Obama supporter the Rev. Ronnie K. Moore, whose large Baptist congregation in Jackson does not support gay marriage, the president's revelation is "troubling."
"It makes for much prayer. It caught a lot of us off guard," said Moore, pastor of the 1,100-member Stronger Hope Baptist Church.
Mississippi Democratic Party Chairman Jamie Franks has never supported gay marriage. "But this president has created jobs," Franks said.
"When the president took office, the economy was in shambles. Now jobs are being created every day, unemployment is down, productivity is up and we still have General Motors."
Clarion Ledger
5/9/12
Posted May 10, 2012 - 2:45 pm
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Why would Mississippi students need those advantages and why would parents want those opportunities for their children when they already have a high performing school? I hope with charter school legislation such schools would be available, but grants and foundations that support nonprofits dedicated to charter schools typically seek a different geography.
It is that geography that likely motivates Espy to support charter schools. He knows just across the Mississippi River in the Arkansas Delta, students and parents are achieving in the KIPP Delta Public Schools - a charter school network.
Students are improving their grades above their regional peers, and in many subjects equaling or surpassing the state average.
Their ACT scores exceed the state and national average. As a result, not only are high school graduation rates increasing for these charter school students, but so is college admittance and attendance.
These public charter schools bring in additional funding beyond tax dollars to benefit students and create a community of learning. There are failures of course and they have not solved all the education problems of Arkansas. But because of charter schools in Arkansas, hundreds of students are getting a better education and have a brighter future in regards to college and career.
On our side of the Mississippi River, charter school opportunities do not exist in the Mississippi Delta and they will not for at least another year. That, according to the Mississippi Democratic leadership, is their principal success of the 2012 legislative session.
Brian Perry
Madison County Journal
5/10/12
Posted May 10, 2012 - 8:21 am
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As Hurricane Ike neared the Texas coast in 2008, hundreds of hospital patients and nursing home residents were in harm’s way, facing a difficult escape from the storm’s path. That’s when the C-130s of the 136th Air- lift Wing, based in Fort Worth, Texas, went into action. That year, for the first time in U.S. history, C-130s were used to help move patients to safety ahead of a storm’s arrival. In all, between Hurricanes Ike and Gustav, also in 2008, 800 people were airlifted to safety.
The same planes were among the first to arrive following Hurricane Katrina in 2005, bringing much-needed supplies and National Guard troops to areas devastated by the storm.
If a plan being put in place by the U.S. Air Force is allowed to go into effect, that sort of mutual assistance among our Gulf Coast states could be a thing of the past.
Phil Bryant Rick Perry
5/9/12
Posted May 10, 2012 - 6:57 am
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Leadership matters. Specifically, who is in a position of leadership, and who is not, matters.
One of the most far-reaching accomplishments of the recently concluded 2012 session of the Mississippi Legislature is also one that received relatively little fanfare. In the waning hours of the session, legislators overwhelmingly approved redistricting plans.
The change in leadership from the Democrats -- who were in charge of last year's redistricting fracas -- made a pronounced difference on the House side, and as a result, in the whole process.
Cory Wilson
Gulf Live
Posted May 10, 2012 - 6:54 am
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Mississippi's top election official questioned Tuesday whether the U.S. Justice Department will fairly consider the state's voter ID law after a department employee criticized the state on Facebook.
Secretary of State Delbert Hosemann, a Republican, said Stephanie Gyamfi, a civil rights analyst for the department, posted Mississippi should change its motto to "disgusting and shameful."
The chief of the Justice Department's voting section, T. Christian Herren Jr., said the department reviewed Gyamfi's remarks and found they were personal and not work-related. He said she made them after some University of Southern Mississippi students chanted "Where's your green card?" to a Puerto Rican basketball player at a game in March. One of Gyamfi's Facebook friends posted a comment about the chant, and she responded to that post.
AP
5/8/2012
Posted May 10, 2012 - 6:53 am
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Tuesday, May 22, 2012
