Mississippi Edition

Educators, students, and parents testify in federal court about the impact of Mississippi's law banning Diversity Equity and Inclusion programs.Then, more than 137 million pandemic relief dollars were clawed back from schools earlier this year. Now, that money is being returned.Plus, today marks the 60th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act of 1965. The nation's Voting Rights Act turns 60 today. A professor and civil rights activisttalks about voting gains and losses. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Special primary elections are underway in the state for 7 legislative seatsThen, Doctors in the state are cautioning folks about a rare bacteria in waterways.Plus, the state's lead Emergency Manager shares what changes at FEMA could mean for Mississippi. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mississippians with ties to Israel and Gaza share their thoughts on the current hunger crisis.Then, changes to federal funding isn't slowing the state's push to expand broadband access.Plus, officials at the Veterans Affairs hospital in Jackson celebrate 100 years of medical research by VAs across the nation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A state legislative leader says one of his top priorities for the next session is expanding school choice.Then, the Army Corps of Engineers hears what residents in Jackson think about different versions of the "One Lake Project", an effort to mitigate flooding along the Pearl River.Plus, students at the University of Mississippi Medical Center are relocating thousands of graves, a unique opportunity to better understand the state's medical history. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stump speeches are underway at the annual Neshoba County Fair. Hear what some Mississippi elected officials are talking about. Then, Children are going back to school. That means drivers need to slow down even if they're in a hurry to keep kids safe in school zones.Plus, the head of the Mississippi Department of Archives and History receives a prestigious lifetime achievement award. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A U.S. District Judge in Mississippi writes a temporary ban of the state's DEI ban. It contained numerous errors, sparking questions about whether artificial intelligence was used to help write it.Then, another federal court stops the closure of Job Corps Center in the state and across the country. Plus, a virtual meeting to determine how best to spend millions in opioid settlement dollars is interrupted by a hacker showing crude images. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nationally known business leaders and those in the state take part in a summit to address moving the Magnolia State's economy forward, which also means combating "Brain Drain."Then, we talk with a photographer who is the first to win a new category in a prestigious national award. He captured the devastation and rebuilding in Rolling Fork after an EF-4 Tornado decimated the community.Plus, a grocery store owner in Alabama braces for cuts to SNAP benefits he says will hurt small independent grocers. More about that ahead. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A presidential Executive Order seeks to move unhoused people with mental illness or substance abuse disorders into long-term care facilities.Then, a professional in the fishing industry reacts to a new state law seafood labels must include whether the product is domestic or imported. Plus, a new film highlights the history of Clarksdale, and how the rural delta town has contributed to American culture. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The FBI arrests 10 Mississippi men in a major drug sting operation. One suspect is still at large.Then, the federal government approves a Mississippi plan that allows pregnant mothers to get pre-natal care through Medicaid while their applications are processed. Plus, Black women in the state have a higher risk of complications during pregnancy. Medical experts are talking about how to stay healthy and safe. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's dangerously hot outside. Experts in weather and medicine say it's important to stay cool and drink water.Then, we continue our conversation on ways Mississippians can slow the onset of dementia with a doctor from the MIND Center in Jackson.Plus, a new book shares the story of how a small delta town became a pivotal location for the civil rights movement. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement has access to medicaid data. Advocates for immigrants in Mississippi say it needs to be stopped.Then, what are the warning signs of someone developing dementia? We speak with a doctor about what Mississippians need to know.Plus, the Trump administration is delaying federal grants that help provide overdose-reversal drugs like Narcan. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A new state law requires social media sites to verify the age of minors trying to sign up for their platforms. A coalition of media companies is challenging that requirement at the U.S. Supreme Court.Then, disability rights leaders say federal cuts could make it harder for folks to get equal opportunities through the Americans with Disabilities Act.Plus, we sit down with MPB's Executive Director, Royal Ails, to discuss how federal cuts to public broadcasting could affect Mississippians. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We're speaking with MPB Executive Director Royal Ails on how federal clawback for public broadcasting funds could affect Mississippi. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Black women in Mississippi have a 1 in 4 chance of developing postpartum depression, according to new research.Then, Alcorn State University is partnering with a casino in Natchez to house students during the fall semester.Plus, a health official shares what reductions in subsidies for the Affordable Care Act premiums could mean to rural Mississippi hospitals and the communities they serve. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Activists in Jackson are continuing to speak out against federal cuts by the Trump administration and Congress.Then, new school policies are limiting cell phone use in classrooms. We speak with a superintendent about what these policies mean for students and teachers.Plus, a man who was paralyzed just a few years ago is now walking -- sharing his story of recovery and perseverance. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mississippi Department of Health warns cases of the Whooping Cough are rising at a high rate.Children are especially vulnerable and it can be fatal. Then, the Army Corps of Engineers reveals new flood control plans for the Pearl River in Jackson.Plus a new civil rights marker shares the story of the Alexander versus Holmes County Supreme Court Decision. That rule led to the desegregation of all public schools nationwide. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

New polling from the Southern Poverty Law Center shows lower approval ratings for Republican Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith. That could mean a more difficult election cycle for her next year. Then, more school districts in Mississippi are adopting "no cell phone" policies.Plus, a funeral service is being held today for "Mama" Mosie Burks, the lead singer for the Mississippi Mass Choir. She died last week at the age of 92. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Religious leaders led a faith-based demonstration outside the Jackson offices of Mississippi's two U.S. senators.Then, after nearly two decades of planning and implementation, Mississippi's court system is now fully online.Plus, healthcare stakeholders offer warnings about how hospitals and patients in Mississippi could be harmed by looming federal funding cuts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's the tax-free weekend in Mississippi. What that means for families trying to save while making back to school purchases.Then, the first Naloxone vending machine in Mississippi is now open. Health officials say it will be a positive tool in curbing overdose deaths.Plus, community organizers say Black Women in Mississippi still get paid a fraction of their white male counterparts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mississippi's top health expert says federal funding cuts won't be allowed to affect critical health programs in the state.Then, lawmakers are searching for ways to curb the opioid epidemic in Mississippi using millions of dollars from a national legal settlement.Plus, how a shortage of specially trained nurses could be slowing the justice process for sexual assault cases. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Congress has passed a version of Donald Trump's "Big Beautiful Bill" what that means for Mississippi, ahead.Then, Airports around Mississippi received over $21 million dollars in grants from the Federal Aviation Administration. Plus, the U.S. continues to treat drug use largely as a criminal issue. But police in other countries, like the Netherlands, have taken a different approach. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mississippi Highway Patrol cautions major holidays like the 4th of July can be deadly when drivers don't follow the rules of the road. Then, the new mayor of the capital city talks about his vision to revitalize Jackson and hopes to build better relationships with federal, state and county, officials.Plus, we talk with political activist Stacey Abrams about the life and legacy of civil rights icon Medgar Wylie Evers. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A variety of new state laws are now in effect. One of the biggest changes folks will see in their daily lives is a higher gas tax.Then, today marks what would have been Medgar Wiley Evers' 100th birthday. We hear from a journalist attending a celebration for the Evers' birthday, as well as Evers' daughter. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mississippi House Speaker Jason White says he's planning a major push next year making it easier for families to change where their kids go to school.Then, the daughter of U.S. Senator Robert F. Kennedy, Kerry Kennedy, shares her experience growing up during the civil rights movement.Plus, a conversation with former MSNBC Host Joy Ann Reid on her work preserving and promoting the life and legacy of Medgar Wylie Evers. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mississippi lawmakers named to select four committees will soon begin holding hearings on issues like the revitalization of the Capital city.Then, Louisiana's new third-grade reading test is now required by law. Just like in Alabama and Mississippi, if students don't pass, they may have to repeat the grade.Plus, Medgar Evers would have turned 100 this week. His work in the civil rights movement is being celebrated in Jackson. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Daughters of three civil rights leaders share how their parents shaped their lives while also fighting for racial equality.Then, a new gas tax goes into effect next week. An official with MDOT shares what that means for drivers.Plus, we talk with the new Medical Director for the Mississippi Department of Health. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mississippi executes the state's oldest and longest-serving death row inmate Wednesday evening at Parchman Penitentiary.Then, High school seniors in Mississippi no longer have to pass a U.S. History assessment exam to graduate. Plus, a new art exhibit opens today in Ocean Springs. It features influential modernist painter and native Mississippian Dusti Bongé. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Israel and Iran have agreed to a ceasefire with the involvement of the U.S. What does it mean for Mississippi? That's ahead.Then, a federal judge hears arguments challenging Mississippi's law banning Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at public schools and universities. Plus, three organizations representing business interests in the state merge under one umbrella called the Mississippi Business Alliance. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

An Iranian American living in Jackson shares her thoughts on the conflict between her home country, Israel and the US air strikes.Then, courts have approved a settlement between the NCAA and student athletes, making it possible for colleges and universities to pay students who participate in sports programs.Plus, mental health advocates are reaching out to Black Men in Mississippi to share ways to prevent suicide. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mississippi is set to carry out the execution of a death row inmate on Wednesday. That's despite numerous attempts to have the sentence overturned.Then, health advocacy experts say a new FDA-approved shot could help reduce transmission of HIV in Mississippi.Plus, a burn victim shares her story of recovering from 3rd degree burns. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On today's show;Immigrant Rights activists are calling for the release of an immigrant arrested while working with his supervisor. He's now in ICE custody.Then, Mississippians share how they celebrate Juneteenth, a holiday commemorating the end of slavery in America. Plus, how do teens who grow up while in prison reenter society? There's a group that helps them along the way. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mississippi is partnering with chip manufacturer NVIDIA.Then, post-traumatic stress disorder affects roughly three percent of Americans. But in Mississippi, they say that number could be higher.Plus, Mississippi is one of 20 states that do not recognize Juneteenth as a state holiday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A new national report lists Mississippi at the bottom for several key health indicators. One is maternal health an on-going issue for the state.Then, what are the risks of cancer for people who drink alcohol? That's ahead.Plus, health officials are trying to address the state's high rate of Alzheimer's disease. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On today's show:Educators are working with business leaders in Mississippi to discuss how artificial intelligence can be used effectively in the workplace.Then, dentists are reminding families to get checkups for their kids this summer.Plus, meningitis transmission is increasing in other states. Mississippi has high vaccination rates, but experts say there are still vulnerable people. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Thousands of Mississippians in Jackson and across the state hold protests as part of the nationwide "No Kings" demonstrations.Then, a coalition of advocates concerned about access to healthcare in the state talk about the future of Medicaid on the local and state levels. Plus, a caregiver shares the hurdles she has to overcome when helping the elderly and disabled. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Governor Tate Reeves announces major investments to bolster the artificial intelligence industry across Mississippi.Then, the state's congressional delegation share differing opinions on President Donald Trump's 'Big Beautiful Bill'.Plus, a free healthcare event in Jackson is highlighting the need for community outreach throughout Mississippi. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The new administrator for the US Environmental Protection Agency visits Mississippi.Then, officials are warning about a scam that claims people owe money for traffic violations that don't exist.Plus, Mississippi and Louisiana have some of the smallest tech scenes in the country. But some tech companies are choosing to stay in the South anyway. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Former Mississippi Governor Haley Barbour shares remarks on the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina.Then, a summit in Jackson brings together law enforcement agencies from across the state.Plus, a new law is expected to regulate the seafood industry in Mississippi, prioritizing local products.And ahead, the blockbuster horror film 'Sinners' has become popular because of the range of Mississippi Delta cultures it represents. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Civil rights groups sue the state over a new law banning DEI programs in public schools.Then, June is Men's Mental Health Month. Healthcare leaders are calling attention to high rates of suicide among men.Plus, As the movie 'Sinners' continues to shine a national spotlight on Clarksdale, residents in the Delta town hope it'll breathe new life into the city. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mississippi receives its highest education ranking yet in a national report.Then, researchers at two Mississippi universities report unsafe levels of toxic metals in fish.Plus, business leaders share ideas on how artificial intelligence can be used to move Mississippi forward. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Community advocates raising awareness about their work preventing gun violence in Jackson, saying they're reorganizing now that some funding is cut.Then, many students rely on the breakfast and lunch at school. School Districts are planning to open their feeding program to ensure children don't go hungry during the summer break. Plus, power providers are preparing for the predicted busy hurricane season. Are you? We'll talk about that too. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Faculty at the University of Mississippi are teaming up with the state Department of Health to reduce the spread of syphilis.The results are in, Tuesday's municipal elections show significant gains for the Democratic party. Hear what a state elected official in the party has to say about why they're garnering more support in this Red State.Plus, a conference this weekend brings together experts in Alzheimer's and Dementia along with those at the forefront of helping families with resources and emotional support. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.