RHCJC

Poplarville faces challenges replacing old water lines

Whitney Argenbright, Morgan Gill, Gerome Webster, Kennedi Drake, Pragesh Adhikari, Evan Baronich, Samuel Hughes and Aidan Tarrant • March 17, 2025

Poplarville is working to replace its aging water infrastructure, but the upgrades are causing unexpected problems, including frequent water line breaks and boil water notices. Additionally, city officials said rising costs and the strain on old pipes are making the process even harder.

Bacterial advisories prove challenging for beachgoers, businesses

Samuel Hughes, Kennedi Drake, Rowan Luke, Rasheed Ambrose, Gretta Graves, Gerome Webster and Hailey Perkins • March 3, 2025

Soft sand, cool water … and high levels of bacteria? Mississippi’s beaches are popular spots for spring break visitors, and they’re a cash cow for local businesses. However, visitors might discover a regular roadblock in their planning: advisories of high levels of bacteria along Gulf Coast beaches.

Perry County Schools face budget struggles amid enrollment drop

Morgan Gill, Kennedi Drake, Stephani Perez Munoz, Sonya Woods, Colbey Penton, Srividya Karuturi, Nischit Sharma and Pragesh Adhikari • March 3, 2025

For 16 years, Perry County Schools have been underfunded under the Mississippi Adequate Education Program, the state's previous funding formula. During that time, the district navigated a cumulative funding loss of $8,747,681.

‘Delightful’ Hattiesburg grocery store fills gaps, provides local goods

Morgan Gill, Miracle Jennnings, Mallory Strickland, Srividya Karuturi, Nischit Sharma, Javion Henry and Evan Baronich • March 3, 2025

A new grocery store is filling a long-standing gap in downtown Hattiesburg. Sincerely Grocery, a boutique grocery store specializing in locally sourced and specialty goods, held its grand opening on Feb. 1 at The Prospect on Main.

“Coming together but stronger”: Thousands gather for 2025 Knobtown Black History Parade

Justin Glowacki, Pragesh Adhikari, Sonya Woods, Stephani Perez Munoz, Matthew Martin and McKenna Klamm • February 27, 2025

Each year, the small unincorporated community of Knobtown, Mississippi—home to fewer than 400 residents—welcomes thousands of visitors for its annual Black History Parade. Now in its 29th year, the parade has grown into a cherished tradition, bringing families together from across the country to celebrate Black history, unity, and resilience.

Lumberton students create mural to honor late teacher, strengthen community art efforts

Morgan Gill, Miracle Jennnings, Mallory Strickland, Srividya Karuturi, Nischit Sharma, Javion Henry and Evan Baronich • February 17, 2025

In the heart of Lumberton High School, students have turned grief into art. A group of students, led by art teacher Christopher Holzinger, have spent the past six months painting a mural to honor Susan Copeland, a beloved science teacher who died in a two-vehicle crash on Jan. 31, 2024.

Memorial Health System takes over Biloxi hospital, what will change?

Justin Glowacki, Rasheed Ambrose, Matthew Martin, McKenna Klamm, Javion Henry and Evan Baronich • February 17, 2025

On Feb. 1, Memorial Health System officially took over Merit Health Biloxi, solidifying its position as the dominant healthcare provider in the region. According to Fitch Ratings, Memorial now controls more than 85% of the local health care market.

Mississippi railroad crossings pose danger to drivers, spark call for action

Justin Glowacki, Mallory Strickland, Rasheed Ambrose, Srividya Karuturi, McKenna Klamm, Gerome Webster, Javion Henry and Evan Baronich • February 10, 2025

Railroad crossings across southeast Mississippi are becoming increasingly dangerous for drivers. Steep approaches — created by ongoing rail maintenance — are blamed for causing vehicles to stall on tracks, sometimes leading to deadly collisions.

Rural Mississippi schools fight to attract and keep teachers amid shortages

Morgan Gill and Evan Baronich • February 3, 2025

Mississippi’s education system faces a critical teacher shortage, particularly in rural areas like Greene County, where school leaders struggle to recruit and retain experienced educators.

RHCJC to host free media literacy training at Southern Miss Hattiesburg campus

January 28, 2025

The public is invited to attend a free Roy Howard Community Journalism Center media literacy training session on Feb. 28 at the Hattiesburg campus of The University of Southern Mississippi.

Imported vs. Domestic: The fight to protect Gulf seafood

Justin Glowacki • January 27, 2025

Imported seafood dominates the U.S. market, accounting for 64% - 94% of all seafood consumed in the country, according to varying sources. While imports provide affordability and year-round availability, industry representatives argue it comes at a steep cost to domestic fisheries.

RHCJC to host free media literacy training in Wiggins

January 24, 2025

The Roy Howard Community Journalism Center, in partnership with the Stone County Enterprise, will host a free media literacy training on Feb. 3 in Wiggins.