Local News

Blue Mountain Christian University said an ice storm damaged its campus and that insurance will not cover all recovery costs. The university urged donors on Giving Day to help restore classrooms, walkways and shared spaces.

Organizers said Giving Day had raised $6,059.95 and a member of the BMCU Board of Trustees will match the next $2,500 in gifts, potentially doubling donations up to that amount.

Organizers said the Student Emergency Retention Fund provides immediate support to students facing sudden hardships and urged donations this Giving Day.

Myrtle the Turtle, the Mississippi Department of Transportation’s litter-prevention mascot, met TV personality Si Robertson at the Mississippi Ag and Outdoor Expo in February, MDOT said. The agency said the mascot promotes the Keep Mississippi Beautiful campaign through school visits and public events.

Organizers say a dedicated supporter will match donations dollar-for-dollar, up to $2,500, to double gifts ahead of Giving Day on April 9. Donations can be made at the campaign website.

Satellite imagery shows the Mississippi Alluvial Plain amid a severe drought, the original release said. The release said forecasters expect a chance of rainfall early next week.

The Mississippi Department of Human Services is accepting public comment on its four-year State Plan on Aging, and the comment period closes April 10, the agency said on its website.

The Mississippi Department of Transportation highlighted Jason Guthrie for 10 years of service monitoring construction projects, including work on Highway 51 in Madison County, MDOT said.

Veronica Gillespie pleaded guilty to attempted murder and aggravated assault in Prentiss County and was sentenced to 30 years in prison, officials say.

The National Weather Service in Memphis, Tennessee asked followers and partner organizations to share where they take shelter to help identify safe places during high-impact weather, the agency said.