Local News

The Tupelo Police Department said its license plate readers are investigative tools, not mass surveillance, and described access controls and audits to protect privacy.

The City of Tupelo Public Works Department said crews will replace a cross-drain on Walsh Road on Wednesday, July 29, from 8 a.m. to about 3 p.m., with a temporary detour in place.

Blue Mountain Christian University said it was named to the 2026 Phi Theta Kappa Transfer Honor Roll for being transfer-friendly, based on its PTK Connect Transfer Profile.

Heat & Wellness Spa in Ripley, Mississippi, will hold a back-to-school drive and community giveaway on Aug. 1 to collect supplies and help local students, the business said.

Crossroads Rib Shack is celebrating its first anniversary in Ripley with $3 barbecue sandwiches and limited-edition merchandise, Ripley Main Street said. The community organization said the restaurant has become a popular gathering place.

The Mississippi Department of Public Safety said it is accepting applications for careers statewide through Aug. 29. Applicants can apply online or contact department recruiters for more information, the agency said.

The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency said Disaster Service Centers in five counties are available to residents affected by the May 6-7 severe storms. The centers offer face-to-face help and alternate application options.

The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency said extreme heat warnings are in effect for north and central Mississippi and heat advisories cover the rest of the state, with heat index values expected between 105 and 115 degrees.

The Mississippi Department of Transportation is seeking public comment through Sept. 7 on its draft Statewide Transit Plan and Intercity Bus Study, the agency said. The drafts are available at GoMDOT.com/ConnectMS and comments may be emailed to transitstudy@mdot.ms.gov.

The Mississippi Department of Transportation said alternating lane closures and intermittent drawbridge test openings on I-110 will begin at 6 p.m. July 27 and run through noon July 31. MDOT advised motorists to consider alternate routes and posted traffic maps online.