Podcasts about mississippi emergency management agency

Money Talks is hosted by Dr Nancy Lottridge Anderson, President of New Perspectives and Ryder Taff, Portfolio Manager at New Perspectives. To email a question to the show, send it to money@mpbonline.org. In this encore episode, Malary White, Chief Communications officer for the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency joins the show to talk about the mission of MEMA. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Money Talks is hosted by Dr Nancy Lottridge Anderson, President of New Perspectives and Ryder Taff, Portfolio Manager at New Perspectives. To email a question to the show, send it to money@mpbonline.org. In this episode, we visit with Malary White, the Chief Communications Officer for the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Severe cold is expected across much of Mississippi beginning this afternoon. Meteorologists say it could be more than 20 degrees below freezing.Then, the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency shares tips on how to stay safe during severe cold.Plus, on this state holiday, Mississippi recognizes two historic icons: one a Civil Rights leader, the other a Confederate general. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This Tech Speak mini episode brings you to the Maryland State Police Training Academy for a behind-the-scenes glimpse at the “Advanced Open/Obstructed Test Proctor Course for Evaluating Drone Capabilities and Remote Pilot Proficiency.” This training is based on standardized test methods developed by S&T and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). The course consists of inexpensive materials, such as plastic buckets arranged in an easily replicable setup, enabling the consistent certification of drone pilots across various response agencies. Listen now to hear S&T Program Manager Kai-Dee Chu along with colleagues from NIST, U.S. Secret Service, the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency, and Maryland State Police discuss measurement science, testing best practices, and how ingenious courses like this one help make us all safer.

Multiple tornadoes swept through parts of the state yesterday. We get a preliminary assessment from the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency.Then, the federal government orders the city of Jackson relinquish control of its water system.Plus, a central Mississippi clinic provides an update to the state's rape kit. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

HEAVY rain and flooding caused damage to the main water treatment facility in Jackson, Mississippi, on August 29th, leaving more than 180,000 residents without clean drinking water. The Salvation Army's response was immediate and critical to the welfare of the community. While the city was still putting together plans for a large-scale water distribution program, The Salvation Army's USA Southern Territory stepped in and, working in coordination with the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency arranged its own distribution plan with support from Walmart, a national partner. The Salvation Army's first action was to distribute two truckloads of bottled water in a drive-through event in a Walmart parking lot. The situation in Jackson has now improved significantly, although tap water must be boiled to ensure it's safe to drink. Throughout its response, The Salvation Army has given out 14,417 cases of water, 15,130 meals, cleaning supplies, hygiene kits and more.   If you are in need or if you can help- visit https://www.salvationarmyusa.org/usn/  

The Extra Mile podcast was on location at the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency. MEMA Executive Director Stephen McCraney joined the show to discuss his background, hurricane preparedness, the various responsibilities of MEMA and more. Show intro - 00:30 Mississippi Emergency Management Agency Executive Director Stephen McCraney on his background and experience - 01:30 Overview of the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency - 03:21 On MDOT's role during hurricane season - 08:26 MEMA's Radiation Preparedness Program - 09:32 How can the public stay in the loop during emergencies? - 10:11 On MEMA's emergency response vehicles - 11:38 On how contraflow works - 12:47 What should Mississippians do to prepare for disasters? - 15:00 More on "The First 72 Hours Are On You" - 17:19 What not to do during a disaster? - 19:11 On avoiding downed power lines - 21:15 Favorite place to grab a bite to eat when traveling on Mississippi highways? - 21:05 Show outro - 23:59

On this episode, we sat down with two State Public Information Officers to discuss the importance of getting lifesaving information to the public during disasters. Greg Robinson, from the Alabama Emergency Management Agency, and Malary White, from the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency, highlight the challenges and successes they have seen during their careers as PIOs in the emergency management field.

Some Mississippi communities are waking to downed trees and damage after a number of tornadoes popped up yesterday evening. We get a preliminary report from MEMA.Then, a leader from a civil rights organization responds to the Governor's comments on system racism.Plus, Mississippi's colleges and universities prepare for in-person commencement ceremonies.Segment 1:Mississippi residents are once again joining the rising sun of the early morning hours to assess damage as multiple tornadoes are suspected to have passed through the state yesterday. Meteorologists declared a "tornado emergency" for Tupelo and surrounding areas. The mayor said in a statement that damage had been reported and emergency crews were assessing. News outlets also reported tornadoes near Yazoo City, Byram and Tchula. Several people posted images of funnel clouds on social media. Kelly Richardson is the Public Information Officer for the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency. She shares the preliminary report with our Michael Guidry.Segment 2:Governor Tate Reeves is receiving criticism for recent comments made on a Fox News program. Last week during a town hall with other Republican governors, Reeves said systemic racism does not exist in United States. The statement came just one night after President Joe Biden urged Congress to address the ongoing and often-deadly problem during a joint session. Alicia Netterville is the Deputy Director of the Mississippi ACLU. In a conversation with our Michael Guidry, she discusses President Biden's call to address systemic racism, Governor Reeves' denial, and the steps toward reconciliation. Segment 3:Graduation ceremonies are returning to Mississippi's college campuses this spring. Last year commencement celebrations were canceled as the coronavirus pandemic spread throughout the country. Now, with some safety provisions, graduates and their families will be experiencing something closer to tradition. Alisa Mosely, Senior Vice-President of Acedemic Affairs at Jackson State University, tells our Kobee Vance preparations have been in the works for months.At the University of Southern Mississippi, students will be graduating in multiple cermonies throughout the week. Dee Dee Anderson says their events will be held inside - but with safety measures taken. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Mississippi was largely spared the severity of yesterday's storm. We assess the effects with MEMA.Then, what the American Rescue Plan could do for the state of child care in Mississippi - especially that of single mothers.Plus, in today's Book Club, a literary look at the Magnolia state's vast landscapes in Ralph Eubanks' book, “A Place Like Mississippi.”Segment 1:Mississippians are waking up to cooler temperatures following a severe weather system that swept its way through the state yesterday. The wave of storms that brought with it heavy rains, strong winds, and multiple tornadoes - left behind property damage in nearly all corners of the state. County emergency managers across the state are reporting the effects of the storm to the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency. Malary White is Director of External Affairs with MEMA. She tells our Michael Guidry thorough assessments of the affected areas will begin today. Segment 2:Included in the sweeping COVID-19 relief plan championed by national Democrats and the Biden Administration are mechanisms to address the challenges of child care. In Mississippi, the average cost of child care is $6,0000 a year - that's according Carol Burnett, Executive Director of the Mississippi Low-Income Child Care Initiative. She shares how funding through the American Rescue Plan could expand access to affordable childcare for low-wage earners - especially single moms.Segment 3:A writer, journalist, public speaker, professor and Mississippian, Ralph Eubanks has also served as the Director of Publishing of the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C. and is currently a visiting scholar of English and Southern Studies at the University of Mississippi. Eubanks has written a new book that paints the landscapes of Mississippi through the pens of Mississippi's greatest writers. “It's called “A Place Like Mississippi” and as Eubanks tells us, the book wasn't his idea. The Publisher came to him. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

The sleet and snow have moved out, but the frigid air remains. We check in with the National Weather Service on how long it will stay and if more wintery precipitation is on the way. Then, this week's winter storm has left Mississippi's roads icy and has created other hazardous conditions. We hear from MEMA on the state's response. Plus, the Small Business Administration advises Mississippians on second draw PPP loans.Segment 1:Parts of the state are waking up to single-digit temperatures this morning after a winter storm bringing freezing rain and snow moved through yesterday. The precipitation is gone for now, but the accumulated ice and snow might not be going anywhere yet - as temperatures are expected to remain below freezing for most of central and northern Mississippi. For the latest on the wintery conditions we are joined by Logan Poole of the National Weather Service in Jackson. Segment 2:Yesterday's winter weather left Mississippi's roadways blanketed in ice and snow – creating dangerous driving conditions. The cold temperatures and accumulating precipitation is also presenting threats of power outages in heavily impacted areas. Malary White is Director of External Affairs at the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency. She shares more about MEMA's response to this week's massive winter storm. Segment 3:Second draw loans for small businesses recovering from the economic hardships of the coronavirus pandemic are now available. The Small Business Administration is providing guidance related to the federal Paycheck Protection Program. The first draw loans from the PPP were quickly depleted last year, requiring Congress to replenish the coffers. Janita [JAN-eeta] Stewart is District Director of the SBA for state of Mississippi. She shares more on second round of loans with our Michael Guidry – beginning with how this draw differs from the first. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

State officials begin the process of assessing the damage on the coast after Hurricane Zeta raced through southern Mississippi.And, days away from the election, the two leading Senate candidates make their final appeals to voters.Then, those casing ballots will decide the fate of a Jim Crow era constitutional provision. We examine the law historians say was designed to keep Black Mississippians out of office. Plus, some Halloween fire safety tips.Segment 1:State officials are beginning to survey the degree of damage caused by Hurricane Zeta. The storm came ashore in southeastern Louisiana earlier this week as a strong Category 2 hurricane before moving swiftly across the New Orleans area and into Mississippi. Governor Tate Reeves says the storm maintained its strength as it passed through the state's southern counties, resulting in significant damage. Greg Michel, Director of the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency says Zeta serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of tropical cyclones.Segment 2:Two candidates running for U.S. Senate in Mississippi are facing each other for the second time. Republican Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith is the first woman to represent Mississippi in Washington. Her Democratic challenger Mike Espy is looking to become Mississippi's first black U.S. Senator since Reconstruction. The two ran against each other in a 2018 special election following the resignation of former Senator Thad Cochran. Hyde-Smith won by 7 points, but recent polls show that lead is shrinking.Segment 3:A referendum on the November ballot in Mississippi seeks to remove a Jim Crow- Era law historians say was designed to prevent Blacks from holding statewide office. MPB's Desare Frazier explains.Segment 4:Tomorrow is Halloween and the State's Fire Marshall says there are some key safety tips to consider - whether families are trick-or-treating or taking in a fall bonfire. Mike Chaney begins by advising parents to be watchful of costumes around flames or candles. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

A busy hurricane season brings another threat the Magnolia State. We check in with the National Weather Service for the latest on Zeta.Then, MEMA warns residents not to be complacent as Mississippi braces for another severe weather event.Plus, after a Southern Remedy Health Minute, the Secretary of State provides an update ahead of Election Day.Segment 1:Hurricane Zeta is moving swiftly northeast, approaching the southeastern Louisiana coastline and is expected to bring hurricane force winds, heavy rain, and the potential of spin-off tornadoes to the region. We are joined by Lauren Nash of the National Weather Service in New Orleans for the latest on the 27th named storm of the season.Segment 2:Floods in February. Easter tornadoes. The coronavirus pandemic. It has been a year of emergency declarations in Mississippi. The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency already has nine active emergencies, and approaching Hurricane Zeta could make for a tenth. Malary White, MEMA's Director of External Affairs tells our Michael Guidry despite close calls this season, residents shouldn't fall victim to hurricane fatigue.Segment 3:Southern Remedy Health MinuteSegment 4:The 2020 General Election is less than a week away and officials in Mississippi are expecting a record voter turnout at the polls on Tuesday. During a press briefing yesterday, Secretary of State Michael Watson announced absentee voting has surged this election cycle, already surpassing 2016 numbers.During this pandemic-riddled voting season there is one thing all Mississippi voters will be required to have when they show up to the polls: a voter ID. Despite mask mandates in place in 16 counties that require masks indoors while in public, both Governor Tate Reeves and Secretary Watson claim the requirement of a mask to vote restricts the electorates constitutional right. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Hurricane Delta brought strong winds and heavy rains to parts of Mississippi. We assess the impact with MEMA.Then, the state's top health officials express concerns over trends in coronavirus transmission data.Plus, a new report reveals how Mississippi compares to other states in voting accessibility.Segment 1:Hurricane Delta swept through parts of Mississippi over the weekend, bringing with it damaging winds and heavy rains. Delta was the third Category 2 or stronger storm to hit the Gulf region since August. While the state dodged direct hits in each instance, the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency says Delta delivered significant impacts to the state. MEMA Director Greg Michel shares more with our Michael Guidry.Segment 2:Mississippi is one of the top 20 states with the most new cases of the coronavirus per capita in the U.S., and health officials say a "big upswing" of COVID-19 cases could be on the horizon. During a Mississippi State Medical Association round table, State Epidemiologist Dr. Paul Byers cautioned residents not to focus too much on any single day report. But he also says the curve in cases is changing.The recent trends represent a reverse in course compared to the previous two months. State Health Officer Dr. Thomas Dobbs says that is reason enough for health care providers to prepare for a surge.Segment 3:A newly released report by the Democracy Initiative shows Mississippi is the only state in the country that hasn't provided people with more voting options due to the coronavirus pandemic. The coalition of 75 national organizations is working to help states make voting easier and safer. Oure Desare Frazier speaks with Wendy Fields of the Democracy Initiative and Corey Wiggins of the MS NAACP. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

As Hurricane Delta approaches the Louisiana coast, we look at how the weather event will affect parts of Mississippi.Then, how state leaders are preparing to respond to the storm.Plus, the two legislative education committee chairs address the concerns of Mississippi's school communities.Segment 1:Hurricane Delta is expected to make landfall today before bringing wind and rain to western Mississippi this weekend. For the latest on Delta we check in with the National Weather Service in Jackson. We are joined by Daniel Lamb.Segment 2:Mississippi has seen a number of close calls this hurricane season, and now Hurricane Delta is the latest in number of tropical cyclones to threaten the Gulf States. Officials are asking residents to be on high alert as Hurricane Delta moves towards landfall. Governor Tate Reeves has declared a state of emergency as the storm is expected to cross into Mississippi sometime tomorrow. Greg Michel, Director of the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency says preparations for the storm began earlier this week.Segment 3:Education in the midst of the coronavirus has advocates seeking answers about a range of issues from legislators including getting devices to students for distance learning. The Parents' Campaign held a virtual meeting yesterday with House Education Chair Richard Bennett and Senate Education Chair Dennis DeBar. We examine the issues both chairs discussed. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Hurricane Sally slowly churns off the Mississippi Gulf Coast. We have the latest on the storm with the National Weather Service.Then, a look at how the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency is preparing for Sally's landfall and subsequent recovery efforts.Plus, the Governor extends the mask mandate while loosening restrictions on restaurants.Segment 1:Hurricane Sally is lurking in the northern Gulf of Mexico, sending rain, winds and storm surge to the coastal areas. Sally quickly strengthened from a tropical storm to a category 2 hurricane yesterday, but has weakened some since then. Still, it's a slow moving storm, with a forecast that could bring days of rain to some coastal counties, with the strong potential for flooding. For the latest on Sally, we are joined by Ben Schott from the National Weather Service in Slidell.Segment 2:Coastal and southeastern Mississippians are starting to feel some of the effects of Hurricane Sally. The storm is expected to bring winds, storm surge, and lots of rain. Some residents are under evacuation orders; others have elected to ride out the storm. In either case, the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency is preparing to respond. As MEMA Director Greg Michel tells our Michael Guidry, the early preparations for the storm were coordinated in a way to adjust if Sally's projected path continues to change.Segment 3:Mississippi residents will be under a mask mandate through the end of September. Yesterday, Governor Tate Reeves announced that he is extending his Executive Order through the end of month. But he is also easing restrictions on restaurants - citing the declining trend in COVID-19 cases. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Tropical Storm Sally strengthens in the eastern Gulf of Mexico as it inches towards the Mississippi coast.Then, hundreds line up for meals as the economic toll of the coronavirus pandemic lingers.Plus, a virtual conference aims to equip caregivers with the tools to manage Alzheimer's.Segment 1:Tropical Storm Sally is moving slowly northwest towards the mouth of the Mississippi River as it continues to gain strength - now with sustained winds of 65 miles per hour. Residents of Hancock County are under an evacuation order - effective as of 7:00 a.m. this morning. Local emergency agencies are warning storm surge and power outages could occur as early as tonight. For the latest on Sally and the threat it presents to Mississippi we are joined by Ben Schott of the National Weather Service in Slidell.The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency and National Guard are preparing for Sally and the severe threat of flooding it brings. MEMA Director Greg Michel says the combinations of storm surge and flooding could impact Hancock and Pearl River Counties.Segment 2:The number of people going hungry in Mississippi has increased during the coronavirus pandemic. As MPB's Kobee Vance reports, Mississippi leads the nation in food insecurity.Segment 3:Approximately five and a half million Americans face the daily challenges of Alzheimer's - including over 57,000 Mississippians. Caregivers and family members of those living with the disease require unique tools and strategies to navigate each day. To help, The Alzheimer's Foundation of America is hosting a free, virtual Alzheimer's educational conference for Mississippi residents tomorrow. Charles Fuschillo with the AFA says this unique conference will arm caregivers with the local resources they need to provide the best quality care for their loved ones and maintain their own health. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Case and death numbers grow as the Governor's clash with the legislature continues.And, how salons and barber shops are coping with the Safer at Home order.Then, after a Southern Remedy Health Minute, preparing for hurricane season.Segment 1:COVID-19 cases and death totals continue to grow as Governor Tate Reeves loosens restrictions on Mississippi businesses. Since announcing the revisions to his Safer at Home Order on Monday, the state health department has reported 657 new cases of the disease. During his daily press briefing yesterday, Reeves addressed the ongoing threat of the coronavirus. State Health Officer Dr. Thomas Dobbs says the latest case numbers indicate community transmission is still prevalent in some parts of the state. As the Governor and medical officials navigate health concerns, a battle over CARES Act spending power continues. Governor Reeves continues to express frustration with lawmakers over a bill pass last week that gives appropriation of $1.25 billion in federal funds to the state legislature. Reeves suggests the move jeopardizes the money, and implies the results of the November election could put a target on Mississippi.Segment 2:Restaurants and bars are set to reopen tomorrow following revisions to the Governor's Safer at Home Order. But salons and barber shops remain closed. Lindsay Cash, with Vamp the Salon in Jackson, says she wants to work with state leaders to develop a plan to reopen salons soon, while also keeping customers safe. She tells our Kobee Vance selling product is not enough. Ridgeland barber Armundo Robinson chose to close his shop, before it was mandated. He said keeping his customers safe is a top priority, but there are still bills to pay and it's been difficult.Segment 3:Southern Remedy Health MinuteSegment 4:It's Hurricane Preparedness Week and the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency is asking residents to begin considering plans for the looming storm season. With the added challenges of COVID-19, MEMA Director Greg Michel says the agency is addressing necessary considerations for response operations, sheltering and evacuation plans.  See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

The Governor issues a series of Executive Orders and a Declaration of Emergency.Then, the Mississippi Sound is still recovering from last spring's opening of the Bonnet Carre Spillway. Now the spillway is open for the third year in a row. We talk to Secretary of State Michael Watson.Plus, how a lack of resources creates challenges for online college classes.Segment 1:Governor Tate Reeves has issued a Declaration of Emergency following the severe weather that passed through the state on Easter Sunday. The declaration enables all state agencies to ramp up coordination of their emergency responses with the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency and enable them to fast-track coordination at all levels of government in Mississippi. Greg Michel is the Executive Director of MEMA. He tells MPB's Alexandra Watts the early damage assessments are extensive. MEMA's initial report confirms 11 weather-related deaths in 6 counties. An estimated 72,000 are without power and at least 100 people are currently displaced.The Governor has also issued a series of Executive Orders related to the state's COVID-19 response. He announced these new measures at a press conference on Friday. In total, the Governor has issued six new Executive Orders this month, beginning with the shelter-in-place order on April 1st. Segment 2:The Bonnet Carre spillway, which lies on the western edge of St. Charles Parish in Louisiana, was built, in part, as a response to the great 1927 flood that decimated the lower Mississippi. The 5.7 mile chain of locks, traditionally opened at a frequency of once every ten years, is now open for the third consecutive spring. As Secretary of State Michael Watson tells our Michael Guidry, it is causing geological and economic damage to the Mississippi Sound.Segment 3:Universities and Colleges in Mississippi have transitioned to online distance learning to continue educating students during the Coronavirus pandemic. But, for some, transitioning to online instruction has not been easy. After professors convert all their materials to online resources, some students still may not have access to it. Sade Turnipseed, Assistant Professor at Mississippi Valley State University, tells MPB's Kobee Vance half of her students don't have internet access.Andy Harper is an Instructional Assistant Professor at the University of Mississippi. He says the challenges for professors is figuring out how to transition their classes to an online platform. He also believes a healthy compromise is essential when determining how to issue grades. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

The governor introduces a new director for the Department of Human ServicesAnd, a state-level task force is announced to combat the threat of COVID 19.Then, in today's Book Club, it's Women's History Month, and in that spirit we celebrate Eudora Welty - not for her writing, but for her photographs.Segment 1:Weeks after former Director of the Mississippi Department of Human Services and five others were arrested for fraud, Governor Tate Reeves has appointed a new head to the agency. During a press conference this week, Reeves addressed the alleged corruption at the department and introduced its new director. Bob Anderson will replace John Davis who was indicted on charges connected to over four million dollars in stolen TANF funds. Segment 2:The U.S. death toll from the coronavirus has risen to 11 with a victim succumbing in California - the first reported fatality outside Washington state. The U.S, House of Representatives has passed a $8.3 billion spending bill to address the spread of the virus, including discretionary funds to boost vaccine development.At the state level, Governor Tate Reeves as issued an executive order creating a task force comprised chiefly of officials from the State Health Department and the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency. Reeves called this action a priority, and appointed Health Officer Dr. Thomas Dobbs to lead the new response steering committee.Segment 3:Eudora Welty is indisputably one of Mississippi's best writers. But she had an equal passion and talent for photography. In 1989 a book of her photographs was released by Mississippi's University Press. It has been the biggest selling book for the Press ever since and now there's a new edition. It's called simply, “Eudora Welty Photographs” and her niece Mary Alice White tells us about Welty's view behind the lens. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

As the waters of the Pearl River recede, we talk to MEMA Director Greg Michel.Then, what home owners need to know about filing flood insurance claims.And, we hear from those impacted by the flooding.Segment 1:The Pearl River is slowly falling after reaching it's third highest level on record, and highest since 1983. Homes and business along the river in Hinds and Rankin counties were greatly affected by the flood waters associated with the swollen river. The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency is still working to monitor the continued threat of flooding in the area. We are joined by Greg Michel, Executive Director of MEMA.Segment 2:When the waters recede and flood-worn residents return to their homes, the next difficult step to normalcy is the clean up and repairs associated with flood damage. Insurance Commissioner Mike Chaney says that reporting damage and filing insurance claims can be tedious, but affected home-owners should document any damage as soon as safely possible. He tells our Michael Guidry his department is available to assist.Segment 3:Shaunta Durr is a resident of Rollingwood in northeast Jackson. She and her family were forced out of their home late last week as the waters began to rise. When the river crested Monday, the water was as high as the door knob on her front door. Durr tells MPB's Ashley Norwood they could see the waters quickly rising over the weekend. Morton McKeigney of Riverwood considers himself fortunate - his home, which flooded in 1979, was spared this time. But he tells our Kobee Vance, despite experiencing his third flood warning, he still gets anxious. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

The latest on the Pearl River flood threat with MEMA Director Greg Michel.And a lawsuit blocking a city buffer zone ordinance gets sent back to state court.Then, a Clergy group advocates for prison reform.Plus, the Forks of the Road in Natchez gets closer to national park status.Segment 1:Heavier-than-expected rainfalls this are causing a major flood threat for northeast and downtown Jackson, as well as western Rankin County. The Pearl River is projected to rise and crest near 38.0 feet early Sunday morning - the highest levels since 1983. We are joined by Greg Michel, Director of the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency.Segment 2:A lawsuit challenging a City of Jackson ordinance that places a buffer between protestors and the state's only abortion clinic will now be heard in state court. A lawsuit filed by the Mississippi Justice Institute challenges the ordinance, saying it violates their right to free speech under Mississippi's Constitution. We talk to Aaron Rice, Director of the Mississippi Justice Institute and Diane Derzis, owner of the Jackson Women's Health Organization.Segment 3:Members of the Clergy from across the state and from different denominations are rallying for prison reform at the State Capitol. Members of Clergy for Prison Reform say it is time for state legislators to give ex-prisoners a new chance at life. Wesley Bridges is CEO of Clergy for Prison Reform and Pastor at Unity Worship Ministry in Monticello. He says the organization's policy is based on the biblical teachings of Jesus.Segment 4:In 1995, Clifford M. Boxley was set to leave his hometown of Natchez for the African continent - where he planned to live out the rest of his life. But the history of his hometown called on him to stay, preserve, and reinterpret that complex history. Twenty-five years later, Mr. Boxley is leading the charge to have the historic Forks of the Road attain national park status. He tells us more about his mission. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Corrections Committees in both chambers search for solutions to the prison crisis. And, Mississippi Prison Industries offers inmates opportunities to work.Then, MEMA brings new technology to the 911 system.Plus, in today's Book Club – “Stay Woke: A People's Guide to Making All Black Lives Matter."Segment 1:Prison renovations and drug courts are among the issues Mississippi lawmakers are taking up to reform the troubled system. In a Senate Corrections meeting, State Supreme Court Chief Justice Michael Randolph requested $2.1 million to create 19 new intervention courts. In the House, the Committee passed a bill requiring a detailed estimate of costs to repair and renovate Walnut Grove Correctional Facility in Leake County. Our Desare Frazier talks with Justice Randolph, Sen. Juan Barnett (D), House Corrections Chair Kevin Horan (R), and CEO of Mississippi Prison Industries Bradley Lum.Segment 2:Mississippi's emergency responders are upgrading the way they locate people who call 911. The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency is teaming up with emergency response company Rapid SOS to find emergency callers with pinpoint accuracy. Tom Guthrie is the Vice President of Public Safety at Rapid SOS. He tells our Kobee Vance the company uses a device's GPS to relay locations more quickly and accurately than traditional systems.Segment 3:Today's Book Club selection takes a hard look at race in today's political and social climate. The authors of “Stay Woke” describe it as a wakeup call for all concerned Americans. Tehama Lopez-Bunyasi tells us that the end of the civil rights movement didn't begin to eradicate racial inequality in the county. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Mississippi Edition for Wednesday, October 23, 2019:The Mississippi Hospital Association is continuing to push for a version of Medicaid expansion they say would cost nothing to the state government. Then, raising awareness of tornado dangers, even in the middle of hurricane country. And after a Southern Remedy Health Minute, future college students can now apply for federal college aid. We'll talk about getting to college.____________________________________01:11 - Segment 1:Advocates for Medicaid expansion in Mississippi say the state has lost $6 billion dollars since the Affordable Care Act took effect in 2014. The state's Democratic Legislative Caucus is holding hearings with experts who says the program will save lives and create jobs. Jesse Cross Call is with the Washington-based Center on Budget and Policy Priorities. He tells MPB's Desare Frazier what his analysis shows about expanding healthcare coverage to the working poor.Richard Roberson is with the Mississippi Hospital Association. His organization is pushing a program called Mississippi True. It would tax hospitals and charge small premiums to patients in exchange for expanding Medicaid in the state. He explains to our Desare Frazier.____________________________________11:10 - Segment 2: Emergency management officials are urging Mississippians not to let their guard down when it comes to severe weather. Governor Phil Bryant has declared this week Fall Severe Weather Preparedness Week. Officials say this year has been one of the most active for tornadoes in state history, with a total of 86. Ray Coleman with the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency tells MPB's Ezra Wall, severe weather preparedness starts now. ____________________________________17:07 - Segment 3: Southern Remedy Health Minute - Healthier Aging____________________________________18:55 - Segment 4: Applications are now open for students trying to get federal aid to go to college next year. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid can be filled out between now and June. But experts say students should turn in the forms as soon as possible. But is college for everyone? Well, Tori Langworthy from the Get 2 College program says it depends on what you mean by "college." She explains to MPB's Alexandra Watts._________________________About MPB News and Mississippi Edition:Mississippi Edition website: mpbonline.org/MississippiEditionMPB News website: mpbonline.org/newsSocial MediaMPB News Facebook: mpbonline.org/MPBonlineNewsMPB News Twitter: twitter.com/MPBNews__________________Photo Credit: Photo by Nikolas Noonan on Unsplash See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

We would like to remind you: when disasters strike our state you can tune in to MPB for statewide coverage:Biloxi at 90.3; Bude at 88.9;Jackson at 91.3; Meridian at 88.1;Greenwood at 90.9; Starkville at 89.9Booneville at 89.5; Oxford at 90.3The Atlantic Hurricane season, which affects Mississippi and all of the Gulf Coast began on June 1st and runs through November 30th. The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency suggests that in addition to:Flashlight and battery-powered radio with additional batteries.Canned and non-perishable food.Bottled water.Toiletry items.Pet food and pet supplies.Medicine and prescription medication.You need Copies of important family papers and documents and CASH. Money Talks suggests you print the FEMA Emergency Financial First Aid Kit and fill out the worksheets so you’re ready for an evacuation or a disaster. https://www.fema.gov/media-library-data/1524144185649-5dd9736e7ff89b5997182396f4e13fee/Emergency_Financial_First_Aid_Kit_(EFFAK)_signed_04.09.18_508.pdfThe Federal Emergency Management Agency suggests 4 simple steps to financial preparednessAssess and compile: gather your important document and contacts.Review your insurance policies and financial paperwork to be sure that they are still accurate and current.Safeguard your paper and electronic copies of your files.Update or revisit your financial first aid kit often, especially when you have life changes.Having Household information with you during a disaster can help you to:Prove the identity of all household membersMaintain contact with your extended familyMaintain contact with your employerApply for FEMA disaster assistance.Some of the household identification you need to gather include:Copies of driver’s licenseBirth certificates, adoption papers, child custody documentsMarriage or divorce documentsMilitary and pet recordsAnother section of the Emergency Financial First Aid Kit we’re discussing today is the Financial and Legal Documentation part. This includes information about:Housing paymentsUtility or debt paymentsLists of banks, retirement accountsInsurance policiesFrequent flier or reward accountsPowers of attorney or will / trust infoThey have a section for Household contacts.The kit has suggestions for protecting your identity, keeping your electronic records safe.Their tips on passwords and PINS include:Select something that is memorable but not that is public information about yourselfDon’t use the same password for more than one accountNEVER give out your password or PIN for any reason, no matter whom the person is or claims to be.http://Ready.gov is a website that can help you prepare for different types of emergencies. The FEMA website has information about: Thunderstorms & Lightning, Extreme Heat, Power Outages, an Active Shooter, and how to Get Involved with your community.There is a FEMA appWe’re talking about being financially prepared in the event of a disaster, but the Mississippi Emergency Recovery Agency has information about preparing for Hurricanes, Tornadoes, Earthquakes, Radiological, Floods, Winter Weather, and Disaster Kits at http://msema.org See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

On today's show: Are you and your family prepared for hurricane season? We'll get pointers from the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency as we mark Hurricane Preparedness Week. We'll also get an independent gauge of how well Mississippi is prepared for health emergencies. And state education officials prepare to take over two struggling county systems.

Christy Dunaway was recently hired by the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency to serve as the Disability Integration Advisor. Mississippi is only the third state in the country to develop this position within their emergency management system. In her position, Christy will ensure that all programs and services related to emergency management, preparedness, response and recovery, are fully accessible for residents with disabilities living in Mississippi. Christy will talk about her recent experiences covering her first disaster in this new position and lessons learned. Speaker: Christy Dunaway, Dunaway Consulting More Information and Transcript available at: https://www.adalive.org/episode32

Emergencies can happen without warning, so most of us are unprepared for them. Everyone – whether or not you have a disability – should be prepared for sudden emergencies. An emergency can mean a flood, fire, earthquake, hurricane or other natural disaster. However, an emergency can also be a natural gas leak, a sudden sinkhole in your neighborhood, or a tree falling on your house. This episode of ADA Live! will discuss what anyone should do in an emergency, and specifically what people with disabilities should do before, during, and after an emergency. Our guest speakers will be: Mary Morder - Materials Development Specialist at the Southeast ADA Center, Christine Woodell - ADA Trainer for LIFE of Mississippi, and Christy Dunaway - Disability Integration Coordinator for the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency. Speaker: Christy Gilliland Dunaway, Disability Integration Coordinator, Mississippi Emergency Management Agency Christine Woodell, ADA Trainer, LIFE of Mississippi Moderator: Mary Morder, Materials Development Specialist, Southeast ADA Center

On today's show: How does the state senate's infrastructure plan affect the Department of Transportation? We'll hear from the agency head. Then, as advocacy groups push for fewer restrictions on ex-cons, some state lawmakers are weighing in on the right to vote. And, find out what being weather-ready means as changing temperatures draw the threat of severe weather near. Guests include: Sen. Angela Turner-Ford - West Point, Mississippi Democrat Gov. Phil Bryant - Republican Melinda McGrath - Executive Director, Mississippi Department of Transportation Sen. Joey Fillingane - Sumrall, Mississippi Republican - Finance Committee Chairman Corey Wiggins - Executive Director, NAACP Mississippi Rep. Randy Rushing - Decatur, Mississippi Republican Dr. Rick deShazo - Southern Remedy Health Minute Lee Smithson - Executive Director, Mississippi Emergency Management Agency

Topic: Relief efforts for those impacted by Hurricane Harvey discussed with Greg Matte pastor of Houston's First Baptist, Tim Hauss manager of U.S. Disaster Relief for Samaritan's Purse and Lee Smithson director of Mississippi Emergency Management Agency on this edition of Mid-South View Point with host Byron Tyler.

On today's show: Torrential rain and flooding across parts of the state have caused some residents to evacuate their homes. We'll hear from the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency about the damage. And, Mississippi's controversial religious freedom law returns to court today. Why some fear it would incite discrimination, rather than protect against it. Plus a legislative wrap-up.

We'll talk with the head of the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency on the severe weather that moved through the state last night -- and about what might lie ahead. Then, panelists discuss what might Mississippi might expect from a Donald Trump presidency. Later, a Health Minute from Dr. Rick Deshazo on testosterone replacement in men. And, fighting high school drop out in Mississippi.

On Thursday, heavy rain flooded parts of Alabama, Georgia and North Carolina causing mudslides, multiple road closures. It also shut down two stations on Atlanta's public rail system.  Officials in Mississippi have confirmed that four people were killed Wednesday evening in Benton County and two more in Marshall County in connection with the severe weather that swept through the area. Two are still missing in Benton and Tippah counties. Holly Springs coroner James Anderson told The Weather Channel that a 7-year-old boy was found dead in a van on Highway 7 outside Holly Springs in Marshall County. The boy's family was taken in unknown condition to a nearby hospital. Anderson didn't release any preliminary cause of death, but did confirm it was related to the severe weather in the area.  The three other deaths in Benton County were confirmed by the emergency management director for Benton County. The vicitms have not been identified, but Benton County Coroner Shane Ward said the dead are two men and one woman, all approximately in their 60s.  At least 40 people across six Mississippi counties were injured in severe storms, according to the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency.