AGP Executive Report

Local Education & Pay: Mississippi teachers and teacher assistants get a $2,000 raise as new state laws take effect July 1, alongside changes to public employee retirement rules. Public Safety: Jackson Mayor John Horhn issued a direct warning to residents amid rising gun violence. New State Rules: July 1 also brings tougher Mississippi gun laws for certain teen offenses and other criminal-justice changes, plus a new driver education requirement for new license applicants. Community Health & Care: Picayune’s Safe Haven Baby Box is installed at the fire station, awaiting final activation to give parents a legal, anonymous surrender option. Culture & Service: Monticello’s 2026-27 Royal Ambassador candidates were announced, and a Monticello couple behind Heart Strong Monticello was highlighted for CPR/AED advocacy after surviving sudden cardiac arrest. Mississippi Spotlight on Justice: In Senatobia, attorneys for the family of 1-year-old Kohen Wiley say an independent autopsy supports homicide and raises questions about officers’ account, with calls for release of body/dash and surveillance video. Learning & Forensics: Southern Miss opened a Rural Digital Forensics Initiative lab to help rural agencies process digital evidence faster. Outdoors & Travel: A guide spotlights Columbus as a home base for exploring Lake Lowndes State Park. Arts & History: “GMA” continues its 50-states-in-50-weeks America 250 series, while a museum curator highlights a major Jefferson-era document on display.

America 250 Travel Ideas: A new wave of Fourth of July travel is steering people toward history-rich stops—like the U.S. Civil Rights Trail—and education-focused trips that handle the logistics for you. Senatobia Police Shooting: Mississippi families and supporters are demanding transparency after a 1-year-old, Kohen Wiley, was killed during a Walmart stop; they’re pushing for surveillance video release and citing an independent autopsy that they say challenges officers’ account. Election Integrity Fight: Georgia AG Chris Carr joined a multistate effort backing Indiana’s voter ID law, arguing states should control election rules. Birthright Citizenship Push: Sen. Tim Scott says he’ll introduce legislation aimed at ending “birth tourism” after the Supreme Court kept birthright citizenship in place. Local Arts & Education: Meridian’s Davidson family endows MSU’s Riley Center to keep arts and community programming thriving. Community & Wellness: Moss Point is launching a free four-day mental fitness camp for kids ages 7–12. Education Milestone: Mississippi Delta Community College celebrated adult learners earning GED/HiSET diplomas. Workforce Spotlight: Delta State grad Casey Ray is now working in airport operations at Tallahassee International Airport. Safety & Accountability: A Mississippi family is seeking answers after a Columbia Academy graduate died in Florida days after graduation, with witnesses alleging alcohol access.

Mississippi Families & Drivers: New Mississippi laws kick in July 1, including a shift to equal custody as a starting point in many cases, teacher pay raises, and new rules tied to immigration, voting, and criminal justice. Public Safety: Senate Bill 2710 sends certain firearm-related cases involving minors to adult court and ramps up penalties for stolen guns. Immigration & Citizenship: The U.S. Supreme Court rejected Trump’s birthright citizenship limits, a ruling Mississippi advocates say protects families while enforcement fears continue. LGBTQ+ Rights in Schools: The Supreme Court upheld state bans on transgender women and girls in women’s and girls’ sports. Health & Summer Risks: Mississippi health officials are warning about rising disease threats after reports of flesh-eating bacteria in coastal waters, plus a dangerous heat wave forecast across the eastern U.S. Community & Culture: Hattiesburg’s Star-Spangled Celebration moved to The Commons at Gordon’s Creek with live music and fireworks; Senatobia protesters marched for justice after the Kohen Wiley shooting. Workforce & Education: Georgia Pacific expands a Jones College scholarship for technical programs; SPCC named Amy Ball Braswell vice president of strategic enrollment. Lifestyle: Eric Bibb talks guitars and the music that shaped him; Freedom 250 Refuge Relay invites outdoor explorers to visit Mississippi River refuge stops.

Supreme Court & Voting Access: The U.S. Supreme Court ruled states can count mail ballots received after Election Day as long as they’re postmarked by then, a win for Mississippi’s grace-period law and a relief for voters in states with similar rules. Mississippi Law Changes: New Mississippi laws kick in July 1, including teacher pay increases, expanded education requirements, tougher penalties for certain crimes, and new immigration-related rules. PrEP Coverage Fight: After complaints and public pressure, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Mississippi reversed course to expand PrEP access, following pushback tied to “alternate lifestyles.” Health & Community: A Mississippi school district secured $1.2M for CTE expansion, while other education funding measures roll out ahead of the new school year. Culture & Faith: The Church of Christ (Holiness) USA plans a World Mission Board meeting in Dallas, and Mississippi’s Juneteenth celebrations continue to blend history, art, and community gatherings. Local Life: A death investigation continues after a Columbia Academy graduate died in Florida following heavy drinking, and families in Mississippi mark memorials and tributes for loved ones. Food for the Holiday: Fourth of July shopping data highlights Mississippi’s baked-beans love (+130%) alongside the usual cookout staples.

Supreme Court & Voting Access: The U.S. Supreme Court upheld Mississippi’s rule allowing mail ballots postmarked by Election Day to be counted even if they arrive days later, a win for voter access that also keeps similar grace periods intact in other states. Mississippi Reaction: Mississippi groups and Gov. Tate Reeves weighed in after the decision, with Reeves calling for lawmakers to tighten the state’s rules next session. Summer Fun in Mississippi: MSU and USM are teaming up for an Adapted Swim Camp in Hattiesburg (July 13–17) to teach water safety and swimming skills for people with special needs. Local Culture & Community: Radio Bristol’s Farm and Fun Time returns July 16 in Bristol, featuring Mississippi artist Belle Frantz and more. Food & Tradition: A Mississippi hot-dog guide highlights multiple cooking methods and points readers to a top local spot. Arts Spotlight: ArtBlast Photo Contest People’s Choice winners were announced, including Mississippi Lightning and other category favorites. Travel Ideas Nearby: Louisiana launched a statewide “Staycation” campaign running through Labor Day, encouraging in-state trips with a push into nearby Mississippi markets.

Immigration Policy: A new Mississippi law taking effect this week lets the state Department of Public Safety compile a statewide list of “illegal aliens,” including names, addresses, country of origin, adult/minor status, and criminal history, with information-sharing allowed to state and local authorities—prompting alarm from immigrant advocates. Supreme Court Watch: The U.S. Supreme Court is set to issue major rulings soon, including cases tied to Trump’s power over federal officials, election rules, and a crackdown on transgender athletes. Local Politics & Community: Mississippi politicians are already campaigning at the Neshoba County Fair, with talk centered on redistricting and 2027 plans. Culture Spotlight: Mississippi is being highlighted for its “birthplace of America’s music” legacy, with Two Mississippi Museums in Jackson featuring blues, Elvis, and Leontyne Price memorabilia. Lifestyle/Travel: A guide for retirees points readers to educational travel options like Road Scholar and Smithsonian Journeys. Community Grief: Hundreds gathered in Senatobia for the funeral of 1-year-old Kohen Wiley after a police shooting, as families and supporters renewed calls for accountability.

Mississippi Music Heritage (America 250): Jackson museums are spotlighting the state’s “birthplace of America’s music” story, from Ike Turner and B.B. King to Leontyne Price and Elvis Presley—showcasing artifacts that connect Mississippi roots to global sound. Neshoba County Fair Politics: At the fair, Gov. Tate Reeves and other leaders leaned into redistricting talk and 2027 campaign speculation, with speeches setting the tone for what’s next in Mississippi elections. Community Grief & Justice (Senatobia): Hundreds gathered for the funeral of 1-year-old Kohen Wiley after a Senatobia police shooting; protests and calls for accountability continue as the family seeks answers. Immigration Policy Watch: A new Mississippi law will let the state compile a list of immigrants it deems “illegal,” raising alarms among advocates who fear it could be used alongside federal deportation efforts. Education & Local Pride: The Mississippi Department of the American Legion named a Lawrence County JROTC instructor Educator of the Year, while DK Metcalf’s foundation announced scholarships for Oxford and Lafayette seniors. Business & Growth: Gainey’s marked 45 years expanding precast concrete solutions across the Gulf Coast, highlighting jobs and innovation. Summer Safety & Outdoors: Ochsner experts urged Mississippians to watch for heat, dehydration, and water-related injuries as summer ramps up.

Ole Miss Football Culture Clash: Trinidad Chambliss pushed back on LSU coach Lane Kiffin’s claim that Ole Miss’s Confederate past makes it harder to recruit Black players, saying Oxford is “nothing but love” and that Kiffin’s comments weren’t truthful. Immigration & State Power: A new Mississippi law will let the state compile a list of immigrants living in the state “illegally,” including names, addresses, and criminal history—advocates warn it could become a tool to target people amid federal deportation plans. Justice for Kohen Wiley: Senatobia residents held marches and town halls after 1-year-old Kohen Wiley was killed in a police shooting, with families demanding body-cam, 911, and Walmart video footage. Coastal Relief for Storm Repairs: Mississippi’s marine agency is waiving certain permit fees for rebuilding and repairing storm-damaged structures until June 19, 2027, with rules on what needs authorization. Summer Safety Reminder: Ochsner experts urged Mississippians to plan for sun protection, water safety, and common summer injuries—especially dehydration and head trauma. Community & Education Spotlight: DK Metcalf’s Seven Pillars Foundation launched the Met the Moment Scholarship with $5,000 awards for Oxford and Lafayette High School seniors. Local Life & Loss: Longtime Morningsider Nanney, 81, was remembered for decades of service, caregiving, and community ties.

Senatobia Justice Push: More than 100 people packed a Senatobia church for a community accountability town hall after 1-year-old Kohen Wiley was shot and killed by a police officer—organizers demanded police body-cam, Walmart security video, and the 911 transcript. Local Services & Community Care: Fort Madison Housing Authority welcomed a new board member and shared updates on Hillview Village, while Mississippi Master Gardeners in Lowndes County brought home multiple state conference awards for year-round projects. Culture & Music: Confluence brings melodic jazz to the Amana Performing Arts Center July 17, and Radio Bristol’s Farm and Fun Time returns July 16 with Mississippi artist Belle Frantz. Education & Workforce: Delta State will host a free financial literacy workshop for K-12 educators July 9, and (out of state) Amy Klobuchar highlighted workforce and K-12 plans in Minnesota. Summer Safety: The National Weather Service warns of a dangerous heat wave risk across parts of the Southeast and Middle Mississippi Valley leading into the July 4 weekend.

Mississippi Arts & Outdoors: Walter Anderson Museum of Art brought middle schoolers to Sawmill Landing Park in Moss Point to make site-specific artwork from natural materials, turning a “usually overgrown” space into a peaceful, hands-on nature story. Local Culture & Family Travel: Storybook Cottage in Hattiesburg is an immersive fairy-tale Airbnb built for families, with themed rooms and hidden details inspired by classics like Cinderella and Alice in Wonderland. Community & Faith: Impact Nation Fellowship Church in Tuscaloosa plans a multi-day “Built for His Glory” dedication weekend, welcoming clergy and community leaders to celebrate its new home. Mississippi Politics: Gov. Tate Reeves set Nov. 3 special elections for two Mississippi House seats after Rep. Price Wallace and Rep. Bo Brown died earlier this month. Sports & School Spirit: Jackson Academy’s Caden Moss committed to Ohio State, while Ole Miss quarterback Trinidad Chambliss pushed back on Lane Kiffin’s claims about Oxford’s recruiting climate for Black players. Education & Youth: Meridian Public School District wrapped its inaugural Soundwaves Summer Arts Camp at The MAX, adding more summer arts options for local students.

Mississippi Community & Culture: Meridian’s Mississippi Arts + Entertainment Experience (MAX) wrapped its free Soundwaves: Sounds of Mississippi Summer Arts Camp, giving incoming 3rd–6th graders hands-on music, dance, theater and visual arts, plus a visit from graphic novelist John Jennings. Arts & Local Life: A new MAX exhibit, “Build Your World,” spotlights African-American graphic novelist John Jennings (through March 27, 2027), while the Meridian Museum of Art continues to draw crowds with community fundraisers. Sports & Identity: Ole Miss quarterback Trinidad Chambliss pushed back on LSU coach Lane Kiffin’s comments about how Black recruits view Oxford, saying the community is “nothing but love.” Roads & Daily Planning: DOTD says the outside right lane of I-20 eastbound over the Mississippi River in Madison Parish will close June 27 for about four weeks for bridge repairs. State Policy Watch: New Mississippi laws take effect July 1, including teacher pay raises, changes to the retirement system, and updates to criminal justice and voting registration. Public Safety & Community Grief: Senatobia residents marched to honor 1-year-old Kohen Wiley after a fatal Walmart shooting by a police officer; families and advocates are still calling for release of bodycam and surveillance video. Online Safety for Kids: Mississippi AG Fitch reached an agreement with Roblox aimed at protecting children online.

Mississippi Politics: At the Neshoba County Fair, state leaders laid out 2027 campaign-and-legislative priorities, with redistricting and education reform leading the talk as Gov. Tate Reeves’ term-limited exit nears. Education & Culture: The Mississippi Supreme Court declined to review the case of fired assistant principal Toby Price, who read a children’s book (“I Need a New Butt!”) and is set for reinstatement after years of court fights. STEM & Community: The Delta Area Association for Improvement of Schools hosted a robotics and STEAM showcase in Cleveland, bringing together students from Quitman and North Bolivar counties with Gulf Coast partners. Health & Local Impact: Bethel Free Health Clinic in Biloxi is recovering after flood damage that destroyed equipment and patient files, and it’s asking for supplies and donations. Coast Life: The Mississippi Aquarium released two rehabilitated sea turtles back into the water, including a loggerhead, after treatment for injuries and illness. Public Safety: Mississippi’s emergency siren approach is being clarified after storm confusion, with officials urging residents to seek shelter first and get updates second. Human Stories: A Lumberton teen is battling a rare blood cancer and her family is seeking help to reach ongoing treatment appointments.

Flood Recovery: Bethel Free Health Clinic in Biloxi is working to bounce back after nine inches of water flooded the facility, damaging equipment and forcing staff to relocate while patient files were lost. Voting Rights & Local Power: A federal judge ruled against efforts to create majority-Black DeSoto County districts, saying plaintiffs didn’t prove vote dilution under the Voting Rights Act. Community Safety Messaging: Elgin’s fire chief says the outdoor emergency siren system won’t change, urging residents to seek shelter first and get information second when sirens sound. Neshoba County Fair Politics: Lt. Gov. Delbert Hosemann used his Neshoba Fair speech to spotlight education funding and civics requirements, while other speakers discussed local projects and court priorities. Education Access: A judge temporarily halted an Education Department rule that would have limited graduate student loan access, potentially easing borrowing for some nursing and medical graduate students. Mississippi Pride in Food: Cleveland chef Marisol Doyle (Leña Pizza + Bagels) was named No. 48 in the world’s Top 50 pizza rankings, climbing sharply from prior years. Early Learning Exhibit: Rocky’s House, a free traveling early literacy exhibit, is set to open June 29 in Kosciusko and run through Aug. 2. Jobs & Local Business: iQor plans to create 300+ jobs in Meridian as part of a broader hiring push across North Carolina and Mississippi. Culture & Sports: The NCAA approved a new Division I eligibility model letting athletes play five seasons over five years, starting with enrollment or after age 19.

Immigration & Community Impact: The Trump administration is backing away from ICE’s plan to expand detention space by buying warehouses, saying it will rely on existing detention sites after backlash, lawsuits, and DHS leadership changes. Local Public Health Leadership: Marshall County’s Dr. Billy Pitts was elected to the NACCHO board, representing southeastern local health departments and pushing for stronger community health resources. Voting Access in the Spotlight: With the Supreme Court poised to weigh election rules, Washington election officials urge voters to mail ballots early or use drop boxes to avoid rejection risks. Mississippi Education & Equity: A petition with 400+ signatures calls for changes at Mississippi Schools for the Deaf and Blind, citing staffing and specialized teaching concerns. Civil Rights & Representation: A federal judge upheld DeSoto County’s map in a challenge alleging it targets Mississippi Black voters, the latest fallout from the Callais Voting Rights Act shift. Community & Culture: Natchez honored five leaders during Juneteenth events, and St. Rose de Lima in Bay St. Louis marked its 100th anniversary with deep roots in Black Catholic history. Health Watch: Lyme disease risk is spreading into new states, raising tick-bite concerns for more regions. Sports & School Pride: Bernard Euell is moving from Velma Jackson to Ridgeland as athletic director and head football coach.

America 250 Gulf Coast Plans: Beau Rivage is rolling out bold Fourth of July décor and a full holiday lineup—meals, entertainment and fireworks—perfect for a Mississippi weekend getaway. Coaching & Community Sports: Mississippi Delta Community College named Davis “Doc” Beaver head softball coach, bringing 25+ years of experience and a track record of building winning programs. Local Youth Sports Policy Talk: A new rule allowing eighth graders to play high school varsity sports is sparking debate about opportunity and competition. Arts & Delta Culture: “Cotta Blue” premieres at the Ritz Theatre in Malvern, tracing a Mississippi River Delta musician’s journey through the 1927 flood and redemption. River Life, Real Work: A Mississippi-focused feature looks at how the river is managed for commerce—turning romance into day-to-day logistics. Flood Recovery Watch: South Mississippi recovery continues after Tropical Storm Arthur, with shelters open and damage assessments ongoing in Stone County. Meridian Reconciliation Week: The 19th annual Reconciliation Celebration runs July 7–12, with events like Lemonade Day at The MAX and a talent showcase at Meridian Community College. NCAA Eligibility Update: Division I athletes can play five seasons over five years under a new “5 for 5” model, aiming to reduce confusion and eligibility disputes. SHIFT~ Dance Performance: “Wayfind-ing (for one)” is set for June 27 at Prairie Island Campground in Winona, with free admission and a Mississippi River setting.