The Mississippi Press Association Education Foundation annuallysponsors a benefit “roast” of a well-known Mississippian to raisefunds to provide journalism scholarships and internships for someof the state’s best and brightest students.

Gov. Haley Barbour has agreed to be the main course for the 2005Celebrity Roast. It will be held Feb. 5, at the Hilton Hotel onCounty Line Road in Jackson. The reception will begin at 6 p.m.with dinner beginning at 7 p.m.

Roasters will include State Auditor Phil Bryant, Clarion-Ledgereditorial cartoonist Marshall Ramsey, State Representative SteveHolland, and other surprise speakers. Clarion-Ledger perspectiveeditor Sid Salter will again serve as “roastmaster” this year.

Over the last 15 years, the roast has marked one evening eachyear when the state’s politicians and the press come together for acommon goal to advance journalism education.

Over $75,000 in scholarship funds has been raised over the lastdecade from roasting Republicans and Democrats, liberals andconservatives, and Mississippians white, black and red in an effortto help deserving young Mississippians with financial aide as theypursue journalism degrees at state universities and colleges. MPAEFalso offers up to 21 internships annually to state journalismstudents for hands-on experience at member newspapers.

In addition, the Foundation has made substantial cash grants forservices and equipment at Mississippi higher education institutionsincluding Mississippi State, the University of SouthernMississippi, Delta State University, Jackson State University,Alcorn State University, and several community colleges.

The MPA roasts are about having a few laughs, but the press andthe pols are serious about raising money for the students. Thepublic is invited to attend the 2005 roast on Feb. 5. Tickets are$75 each or $500 for a table of eight.

For more information or to purchase tickets, contact MPA OfficeManager Kimberly Haydu at khaydu@mspress.org or (601) 981-3060.