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Articles by Sameen Chand
Mississippi Survivor Shares Story
MISSISSIPPI—For many human trafficking survivors, exploitation does not begin with violence but with trust—a reality advocates say communities must better understand as law enforcement identifies more cases across the state. That was true for human trafficking survivor Amber Eide, who said she had just graduated from high school in Mississippi when she met an older man at a grocery store. What she believed was the start of a relationship eventually turned into a trafficking situation in Atlanta.
From trust to trafficking: Mississippi survivor shares story of being an ‘invisible’ victim
MISSISSIPPI — For many human trafficking survivors, exploitation does not begin with violence but with trust — a reality advocates say communities must better understand as law enforcement identifies more cases across the state. That was true for human trafficking survivor Amber Eide, who said she had just graduated from high school in Mississippi when she met an older man at a grocery store. What she believed was the start of a relationship eventually turned in a trafficking situation in Atlanta.
From trust to trafficking: Mississippi survivor shares story of being an ‘invisible’ victim
MISSISSIPPI — For many human trafficking survivors, exploitation does not begin with violence but with trust — a reality advocates say communities must better understand as law enforcement identifies more cases across the state. That was true for human trafficking survivor Amber Eide, who said she had just graduated from high school in Mississippi when she met an older man at a grocery store. What she believed was the start of a relationship eventually turned in a trafficking situation in Atlanta.
As Growth Surges, Harrison County Eyes Funding for Roads, Tourism, Services
HARRISON COUNTY, Miss.—As population growth and tourism continue to reshape Mississippi’s Gulf Coast, leaders in Harrison County say infrastructure funding, economic development and public services are among their top priorities heading into the 2026 legislative session. This story is part of a Roy Howard Community Journalism Center reporting project examining what mayors and county supervisors across southeast Mississippi want from state lawmakers during the 2026 legislative session.
Rising costs and aging infrastructure drive Pearl River County priorities for 2026
PEARL RIVER COUNTY — As small towns across Mississippi prepare for the 2026 legislative session, leaders in Pearl River County say rising costs, aging infrastructure and workforce challenges are putting increasing strain on local governments. This story is part of a Roy Howard Community Journalism Center reporting project examining what mayors and county supervisors across southeast Mississippi want from state lawmakers during the 2026 legislative session.
Leaders Across Hancock County Look to State for Infrastructure, Housing Support
HANCOCK COUNTY—As coastal communities plan for growth and long-term infrastructure needs, leaders in Hancock County say state funding decisions and local development priorities will shape what comes next during the 2026 legislative session. This story is part of a Roy Howard Community Journalism Center reporting project examining what mayors and county supervisors across southeast Mississippi want from state lawmakers during the 2026 legislative session.
Petal upgrades to infrastructure, services boosted by state, federal dollars
PETAL, Miss. (WDAM) - As the City of Petal’s population continues to grow, city leaders say infrastructure improvements are critical to keeping up with demand. Petal Mayor Tony Ducker says that growth brings higher expectations from residents as well as more pressure on city services. Ducker said partnerships with state and federal lawmakers have helped the city manage those demands. “Congressman (Mike) Ezell’s been very great to work with,” Ducker said.
Lucedale Leaders Push Lawmakers for Help with Roads, Utilities and Housing
GEORGE COUNTY, Miss.—As Lucedale’s population continues to grow, city leaders say traffic congestion, aging infrastructure and long-term planning are among their top concerns heading into the 2026 legislative session. This story is part of a Roy Howard Community Journalism Center reporting project examining what mayors and county supervisors across southeast Mississippi want from state lawmakers during the 2026 legislative session.
Rising Costs and Aging Infrastructure Drive Pearl River County Priorities for 2026
PEARL RIVER COUNTY, Miss.—As small towns across Mississippi prepare for the 2026 legislative session, leaders in Pearl River County say rising costs, aging infrastructure and workforce challenges are putting increasing strain on local governments. This story is part of a Roy Howard Community Journalism Center reporting project examining what mayors and county supervisors across southeast Mississippi want from state lawmakers during the 2026 legislative session.
Greene County Town Seeks Funding, Safety Upgrades
GREENE COUNTY, Miss.—For leaders in McLain, access to grants, public safety visibility and basic infrastructure improvements are central concerns as state lawmakers prepare for the 2026 legislative session. This story is part of a Roy Howard Community Journalism Center reporting project examining what mayors and county supervisors across southeast Mississippi want from state lawmakers during the 2026 legislative session.
WIGGINS — What began as a woodturning studio has grown into a coffee shop and gift store that is helping revitalize downtown Wiggins. Southern Turnings, founded by Scott and Jane Ann Maddox, has become a staple for residents and a tourist destination for visitors. The business now hosts community events, weekly classes and has expanded to additional locations, playing a significant role in efforts to bring activity back to Pine Avenue.
Southern Turnings Carves Out a Place in Wiggins’ Revival
WIGGINS, Miss.—What began as a woodturning studio has grown into a coffee shop and gift store that is helping revitalize downtown Wiggins. Southern Turnings, founded by Scott and Jane Ann Maddox, has become a staple for residents and a tourist destination for visitors. The business now hosts community events, weekly classes and has expanded to additional locations, playing a significant role in efforts to bring activity back to Pine Avenue.
Richton MS Christmas tree farm grows community roots, traditions
Morgan Gill and Sameen Chand RHCJC News Dec. 22, 2025, 4:03 a.m. CT RICHTON — For many Perry County families, choosing a Christmas tree has become more than a holiday errand. It’s a reason to gather, bring children outdoors and reconnect with a rural way of life that has grown harder to access in recent years.
Richton Christmas tree farm grows community roots, traditions
RICHTON — For many Perry County families, choosing a Christmas tree has become more than a holiday errand. It’s a reason to gather, bring children outdoors and reconnect with a rural way of life that has grown harder to access in recent years. After Mississippi endured its worst drought in 50 years during 2023 and 2024, improved weather has given local growers a more stable season — and families a renewed opportunity to visit farms that depend on community support to survive.
Southern Turnings carves out a place in Wiggins’ revival
Southern Turnings in downtown Wiggins was founded by Scott and Jane Ann Maddox as a woodturning studio and has since expanded into a coffee shop and gift store. The business now hosts community events, weekly woodworking classes, and has expanded to additional locations, contributing to Pine Avenue’s revitalization. When Southern Turnings opened over eight years ago, downtown Wiggins had only one other struggling business.
Richton Christmas Tree Farm Grows Community Roots, Traditions
RICHTON, Miss.—For many Perry County families, choosing a Christmas tree has become more than a holiday errand. It’s a reason to gather, bring children outdoors and reconnect with a rural way of life that has grown harder to access in recent years. After Mississippi endured its worst drought in 50 years during 2023 and 2024, improved weather has given local growers a more stable season—and families a renewed opportunity to visit farms that depend on community support to survive.
Richton Christmas tree farm grows community roots, traditions Original
RICHTON — For many Perry County families, choosing a Christmas tree has become more than a holiday errand. It’s a reason to gather, bring children outdoors and reconnect with a rural way of life that has grown harder to access in recent years. After Mississippi endured its worst drought in 50 years during 2023 and 2024, improved weather has given local growers a more stable season — and families a renewed opportunity to visit farms that depend on community support to survive.
Morgan Gill and Sameen Chand
SuperTalk Mississippi Media is Mississippi’s leader in news, politics, sports, music, and all things Mississippi. With four statewide radio networks, 12 talk stations, 16 music stations, SuperTalk TV, and over 50 affiliates, SuperTalk Mississippi Media covers every inch of the state.
Mississippi expands obesity response as rates continue to climb
MISSISSIPPI — Mississippi faces a worsening obesity crisis, with projections showing 57% of adults could be classified as obese by 2030. State health officials say the epidemic is fueling chronic disease and infant mortality. Without major intervention, they warn, the health care system could be overwhelmed. A woman exercises on a chest fly machine at The University of Southern Mississippi's Payne Center in Hattiesburg, Mississippi.
Poplarville Delivered False Promises on Post Office Plans, Residents Say
POPLARVILLE—Four years after Poplarville’s main post office closed due to structural damage—and months after federal officials said construction on a new facility would begin—no work has started at the site. As the holiday season ramps up, residents say postal workers are forced to sort growing volumes of packages on the ground outside a temporary mobile unit, raising concerns about mail security, weather exposure and working conditions.
Poplarville delivered false promises on post office plans, residents say
Categories: Poplarville’s main post office closed in early 2022 due to termite damage and a collapsed ceiling, and a temporary mobile unit has served since then. No construction has started on the promised new post office at 935 S. Main St., despite previous city announcements that it would begin in October. Postal workers have had to sort and stage packages outside on the ground, especially during the holiday season, with packages loaded into personal vehicles for delivery.
Mississippi expands obesity response as rates continue to climb
Mississippi faces a worsening obesity crisis, with projections showing 57% of adults could be classified as obese by 2030. State health officials say the epidemic is fueling chronic disease and infant mortality. Without major intervention, they warn, the health care system could be overwhelmed. To counter the crisis, multiple state agencies are rolling out coordinated programs to expand treatment access, improve nutrition education and promote physical activity.
Morgan Gill, Sameen Chand, Nischit Sharma, and Makiya Jackson
SuperTalk Mississippi Media is Mississippi’s leader in news, politics, sports, music, and all things Mississippi. With four statewide radio networks, 12 talk stations, 16 music stations, SuperTalk TV, and over 50 affiliates, SuperTalk Mississippi Media covers every inch of the state.
Mississippi expands obesity response as rates continue to climb
Mississippi faces a worsening obesity crisis, with projections showing 57% of adults could be classified as obese by 2030. State health officials say the epidemic is fueling chronic disease and infant mortality. Without major intervention, they warn, the health care system could be overwhelmed. kAm%@ 4@F?E6C E96 4C:D:D[ >F=E:A=6 DE2E6 286?4:6D 2C6 C@==:?8 @FE 4@@C5:?2E65 AC@8C2>D E@ 6IA2?5 EC62E>6?E 2446DD[ :>AC@G6 ?FEC:E:@? 65F42E:@?
Mississippi expands obesity response as rates climb - Mississippi Today
Mississippi faces a worsening obesity crisis, with projections showing 57% of adults could be classified as obese by 2030. State health officials say the epidemic is fueling chronic disease and infant mortality. Without major intervention, they warn, the health care system could be overwhelmed. To counter the crisis, multiple state agencies are rolling out coordinated programs to expand treatment access, improve nutrition education and promote physical activity.
Mississippi expands obesity response as rates continue to climb
Categories: MISSISSIPPI — Mississippi faces a worsening obesity crisis, with projections showing 57% of adults could be classified as obese by 2030. State health officials say the epidemic is fueling chronic disease and infant mortality. Without major intervention, they warn, the health care system could be overwhelmed. To counter the crisis, multiple state agencies are rolling out coordinated programs to expand treatment access, improve nutrition education and promote physical activity.
Lamar County’s growth fuels surge in emergency calls
Categories: Lamar County’s population has grown from about 15,000 residents in 1970 to nearly 65,000, leading to a sharp increase in emergency calls. The Northeast Lamar Fire Station averaged around 180 calls per year in 1990 and now responds to about 900 calls annually. The county has 26 fire stations, staffed mainly by 180 volunteer firefighters, and generally meets the standard of residents living within five miles of a station.
Mississippi may require deer hunters to report harvests
Categories: A bill expected to be reintroduced in the 2026 Mississippi legislative session would require hunters to report every deer they harvest through a mobile app or website. Rep. Bill Kinkade, who sponsored a similar measure that previously passed the House, said current data is insufficient to properly manage deer populations in the state. Mississippi’s white-tailed deer herd is estimated at 1.75 million, with about 275,000 deer harvested annually using survey and voluntary report data.
Storm shelter grants open, but rural barriers remain
MISSISSIPPI — Mississippi has launched a statewide grant lottery to help homeowners build storm shelters and safe rooms, but rural residents say the program may be out of reach for those who need it most. The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency says the initiative — funded through FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program — offers up to $3,500 to cover 75% of the cost of constructing a FEMA-approved safe room. There are thirty-eight available grants per county.
Mississippi weighs new supports as chronic absenteeism climbs
MOSS POINT, Miss. (RHCJC) — In his Moss Point School District office, Superintendent Christopher Williams reflected on the Mississippi’s latest chronic absenteeism report, which shows 44% of his students missed at least 10% — roughly 18 days — of last school year. "We are leading the state in the percentage of our students who are chronically absent," Williams said.
Mississippi weighs new supports as chronic absenteeism climbs
MOSS POINT, Miss. (RHCJC) — In his Moss Point School District office, Superintendent Christopher Williams reflected on the Mississippi’s latest chronic absenteeism report, which shows 44% of his students missed at least 10% — roughly 18 days — of last school year. "We are leading the state in the percentage of our students who are chronically absent," Williams said.
Mississippi weighs new supports as chronic absenteeism climbs
Categories: The Moss Point School District reported that 44% of its students missed at least 10% of the 2024-25 school year, leading the state in chronic absenteeism. Statewide chronic absenteeism in Mississippi public schools increased from 13% in 2018-19 to nearly 28% in 2024-25, impacting 120,408 students.
Petal Becomes Second Dementia-Friendly City in Mississippi
PETAL—After being designated a dementia-friendly city—one of only two in Mississippi—Petal is now moving forward with new programs to support residents living with dementia. The city’s efforts are being led in partnership with the Southern Mississippi Planning and Development District and Southern Grace Senior Home Care. Together, they plan to educate local businesses, improve access to care and promote community awareness.
Storm shelter grants open, but rural barriers remain
Mississippi has launched a statewide grant lottery to help homeowners build storm shelters and safe rooms, but rural residents say the program may be out of reach for those who need it most. The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency says the initiative – funded through FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program – offers up to $3,500 to cover 75% of the cost of constructing a FEMA-approved safe room. There are 38 available grants per county.
Morgan Gill, Alexa Hatten, Ashlyn Joyner, and Sameen Chand
Mississippi has launched a statewide grant lottery to help homeowners build storm…
Storm shelter grants open, but rural barriers remain
MISSISSIPPI — Mississippi has launched a statewide grant lottery to help homeowners build storm shelters and safe rooms, but rural residents say the program may be out of reach for those who need it most. The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency says the initiative — funded through FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program — offers up to $3,500 to cover 75% of the cost of constructing a FEMA-approved safe room. There are thirty-eight available grants per county.
Storm shelter grants open, but rural barriers remain
Categories: The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency is offering a statewide grant lottery to help homeowners build FEMA-approved storm shelters, providing up to $3,500 to cover 75% of construction costs. The grant program is available in all 82 Mississippi counties, with thirty-eight grants allocated per county, and the application window is open through Nov. 30.
Petal becomes second dementia-friendly city in Mississippi
Categories: Petal has been designated a dementia-friendly city, becoming one of only two such cities in Mississippi. The city is partnering with the Southern Mississippi Planning and Development District and Southern Grace Senior Home Care to educate businesses, improve access to care, and promote awareness. One of the first initiatives will be memory cafes held at the City of Petal Senior and Veteran Center to support those with dementia and their caregivers.
Wiggins Businesses Tap Grants to Refresh Downtown District
WIGGINS—Downtown Wiggins is getting a new look, thanks to $50,000 in grants helping local businesses repair, repaint and revive storefronts. Leaders of the Stone County seat said upgrades are drawing more visitors and energy to the small city’s two-street business district. The Downtown Wiggins Facade Grant Program was created by the Stone County Economic Partnership with support from the Mississippi Power Foundation.
Lamar County plans new schools, road upgrades as population surges
Lamar County’s population has grown to nearly 65,000 and is projected to surpass 71,000 by 2030. The Lamar County School District is seeking approval to build three new schools—a high school in Purvis, a high school in Sumrall, and a middle school in Oak Grove. The county is investing in infrastructure, with recent road improvement projects including overlays on Richburg Road, Oklahoma Avenue, and Beach Road, and has modernized its maintenance fleet.
Industrial Park Aims to Bring Growth to Pearl River County
POPLARVILLE, Miss.—Pearl River County is building a new industrial park that officials say could transform the local economy and create long-term job opportunities for residents. The county purchased 130 acres just off Interstate 59 using $1.6 million from the Gulf Coast Restoration Fund—part of the BP Settlement Fund—along with $400,000 from the county. Officials say the project is one of the county’s more significant investments in decades.
Poplarville’s long-overdue wait for a city post office is over
POPLARVILLE — After nearly four years of operating out of a temporary mobile unit, the Poplarville Post Office is getting a new, permanent location. The new facility is expected to open in April 2026. The U.S. Postal Service plans to lease space in a strip mall on Main Street, taking over a site previously occupied by a Ramey’s Grocery Store. The federal agency — an independent entity under the executive branch — will use federal funds to build the new post office.
Poplarville’s long-overdue wait for a city post office is over
Categories: The Poplarville Post Office, closed since 2022 due to severe termite damage, will reopen in a new, permanent location expected in April 2026. The U.S. Postal Service plans to build the new post office at 935 S. Main St. by leasing a former Ramey’s Grocery Store in a strip mall. The project was delayed because the U.S. Postal Service owns the property and repairs must be approved by USPS headquarters in Washington.
Leakesville approves 1st tax, utility hike in 6 years
LEAKESVILLE — For the first time in six years, Leakesville residents will see increases in both property taxes and utility rates beginning in early 2026. Town officials said the additional revenue is needed to repair aging water and sewer systems, maintain infrastructure, and prepare the town for future growth. The Board of Aldermen voted to raise property tax rates from 30 mills to 32.5 mills — an increase of about $25 a year for every $100,000 of a home’s value.
Families turn to microschools as Mississippi debates future of education funding
GULFPORT — Once rare, “microschools” are spreading across Mississippi — about 50 have opened since 2020 — as lawmakers consider whether to expand public funding for alternatives to traditional classrooms. The surge comes amid talks of school choice under the Capitol dome. Supporters see specialized schools as a lifeline for families seeking personalized education while critics warn expansion could strain the state budget and redirect money from already under-resourced public schools.
Leakesville approves first tax, utility hike in six years
Categories: Leakesville will raise property taxes and utility rates for the first time in six years starting in early 2026. The Board of Aldermen approved increasing the property tax rate from 30 mills to 32.5 mills, which could generate about $17,000 in new revenue. Typical household utility bills will rise by about $8.71 per month for those using 5,620 gallons of water.
Families turn to microschools as Mississippi debates future of education funding
Categories: About 50 microschools have opened in Mississippi since 2020, as lawmakers debate expanding public funding for alternatives to traditional classrooms. Microschool models in Mississippi vary, with some operating as centralized homeschool programs and others, like Gulf Coast Education Solutions in Gulfport, serving 20 students with individualized support.
Mississippi sheriffs push to use radar to curb speeding
Mississippi law currently prohibits sheriff’s deputies from using radar to enforce speed limits, limiting radar use to the Highway Patrol and certain municipal police departments. Forrest County Sheriff Charles Sims and the Mississippi Sheriffs Association argue that access to radar would help deputies address dangerous speeding on rural roads, citing child fatalities in recent crashes. Rep.
After 30 years, technology park takes shape in Picayune
Categories: PICAYUNE — A project first imagined more than three decades ago is moving forward in Pearl River County. Construction is underway on the Pearl River County Technology Park across from the Picayune Municipal Airport — a development local leaders say will give residents better access to well-paying jobs close to home. The park’s first two buildings are expected to open by 2026.
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