When Mississippi School of the Arts student Jasmine Murray cameto Brookhaven, she became one of the family, Brookhaven officialssay.

Murray recently made it to the Top 13 of popular music realityshow “American Idol,” which brought quite a bit of attention to thearea. And like any other favorite sons or daughters, Murray will behonored for her national achievement that not only made her ahousehold name in the Homeseeker’s Paradise, but also put MSA andBrookhaven on the national map.

Tuesday, April 14, has been approved by the city as “JasmineMurray Day.”

Brookhaven-Lincoln County Chamber of Commerce Program DirectorKay Burton said the festivities will start at 6:30 p.m. in front ofthe Haven Theater on Cherokee Street. Mayor Bob Massengill willread the proclamation from the city and there will be balloons andfun for all.

Murray will have her own table where she will sign autographsand greet visitors.

“We just felt like we adopted her as our own when she came toMSA so we’re treating her as our own,” said Burton. “With thataccomplishment, we felt we really needed some kind of a publicreception for her.”

Murray remains under contract with “American Idol” and is notallowed to speak to media except under pre-approvedcircumstances.

MSA Principal Jana Perry said Murray has gotten back into theswing of things at school and recently attended her prom, which wasan exciting time for her and all her schoolmates. She said otherMSA students are excited for the success that Murray has had, andthey are all looking forward to Tuesday night.

“Our students are just now starting to find out about it, andgetting really excited about it,” she said. “This is a really neatevent, and hopefully people can come out and get to know Jasmine aswell as the rest of our students a little better.”

Murray was recently honored by the Mississippi Legislature forher accomplishments. And like that day in Jackson, Murray’s familywill be in Brookhaven for Tuesday night’s event as well, Burtonsaid.

“We think she deserves a little public recognition in her ownhome state. I’m glad the legislature honored her and we’re doingour part,” she said.

In addition, Burton said, Murray will be there simply to bethanked for her contributions. She will not be asked toperform.

“This wasn’t for her to perform for us, but for us to honorher,” she said. “This is a good thing for Brookhaven.”