Search Broadens for Elderly Lady as Lincoln County Sheriffs Office Adds to Search

ROXIE, MS -  UPDATE at 5:45 PM Saturday, March 31st / Search continues as Ederly Lady is still missing.  Lincoln County Sheriffs office adds additional manpower 


An 81 year old Franklin County resident is missing.  Ms. Roxie Wells Wilkinson was discovered missing around 2 pm Friday, March 30th  from her residence at 425 Peterson Rd off Hwy 98 near the Franklin / Lincoln county line at Smithdale, Ms.  Ms. Wilkinson has be diagnosed with early stages of dementia and also has a medical heart condition that requires medication.  Ms. Wilkinson also must wear glasses but her glasses were found in her home along with her required heart medication.  Her family searched for her for about one hour prior to calling the Franklin County Sheriffs office who immediately called the Franklin County Search and Rescue  Unit.  A rescue operation was set up and a grid search began without success.  At about 7 pm the Southwest Search and Rescue used dogs with did not get a 'scent hit' as to her location.  Also, the Angola Search and Rescue Unit joined in the search.  At about 2 am this morning the search was called off and resumed at day break this morning.  At this time (9:15 am Saturday, March 31st) the grid search is continuing.  Ms Wilkinson, who is an 81 year old white female, was last seen wearing a pink top with white pants with white croc shoes.  She does not have ID, her purse or her glasses. Ms. Wilkinson also does not have her heart medication that is required.  During the early afternoon today, Lincoln County Sheriffs office added manpower to the search.   If anyone has any information or knows her whereabouts please contact the Franklin County Sheriffs office at 601-384-2324


Source: FCNews Staff update

Search is Currently Underway for 81 Year Old Franklin County Resident, Ms Roxie Wells Wilkinson

ROXIE, MS -  An 81 year old Franklin County resident is missing.  Ms. Roxie Wells Wilkinson was discovered missing around 2 pm Friday from her home at 425 Peterson Rd off Hwy 98 near the Franklin / Lincoln county line at Smithdale, Ms.  Ms. Wilkinson has be diagnosed with early stages of dementia and also has a medical heart condition that requires medication.  Ms. Wilkinson also must wear glasses but her glasses were found in her home along with her required heart medication.  Her family searched for her for about on hour prior to calling the Franklin County Sheriffs office who immediately called the Franklin County Search and Rescue  Unit.  A rescue operation was set up and a grid search began without success.  At about 7 pm the Southwest Search and Rescue used dogs with did not get a 'hit' as to her location.  Also, the Angola Search and Rescue joined in the search.  At about 2 am this morning the search was called off and resumed at day break this morning.  At this time (9:15 am Saturday, March 31st) the grid search is continuing.  Ms Wilkinson, who is an 81 year old white female, was last seen wearing a pink top with white pants with white croc shoes.  She does not have ID, her purse or her glasses. Ms. Wilkinson also does not have her heart medication that is required.  If anyone has any information or knows her whereabouts please contact the Franklin County Sheriffs office at 601-384-2324


Source: FC News Staff Report

Dixie Youth League 50th Anniversary Celebration Time Announced

The 50th Anniversary Celebration of the Franklin County Dixie Youth League will be held at the Dixie Youth baseball field on Saturday, April 14, 2012.  The beginning time announced for the start of  the activities will be after the first ballgame which starts at 5:30 pm.  All players from the year 1962 to present are ask to attend this special event featuring fireworks at the end of day.  The League will be honoring the 2011 District 6 Champions with an unveiling of a special sign in addition to a trophy presentation ceremony.  Organizers are asking that anyone having old photos, in which they are willing to share, to please contact them. An 'old timers' game is also in the plans.  You may receive additional information by contacting either Trey Hill at 601-384-6550, Jimmy May at 601-384-6073 or Lance Murray at 601-384-2299. 

Mississippi Unemployment Numbers as Reported by Fox News

The news story as reported by Fox News  - Mississippi Unemployment Numbers

See the Video - Pick Up Basketball Game at Town of Roxie Park

ROXIE, MS - The March winds have settled down and the evenings are nice.  The Town of Roxie Park's basketball court is getting a good workout as several groups of different ages come out to enjoy.  Pickup games are the norm as both ends of the court are being used as evidenced in the following two videos.  

Source: FCNews Staff - Roxie Media Video, Valuebroadcasting

Praise Cathedral Sets Date for "Cross and Crown' Annual Drama

ROXIE, MS - For the 3rd consecutive year church members at Praise Cathedral, located at 940 Hwy 556 in Meadville, Mississippi, will offer their live drama - "The Cross and The Crown" which is a live performance depicting an excerpt from the life and times of Jesus Christ.  The play is performed by over 20 local volunteer actors and the performance is open to the public.  Donations are gladly accepted.  


Performance dates are as follows: 

• April - Friday, 6th & Saturday 7th - 7:00 pm curtain time
• April - Sunday, 8th -  6:00 pm curtain time

For additional information you may call Church Offices at 601- 384-4191 or Ms. Irene Wilkerson 601-807-2380

Praise Cathedral - 940 Hwy 556 Meadville, Ms

Inventory Tax Legislation Passes State House

'State House passes inventory tax legislation' as reported by Associated Press, Published: March 28,2012 in the Mississippi Business Journal.  See article CLICK HERE ... 

Senate Passes 1st Version Of Budget Bills

To see the Mississippi Business Journal full article by Associated PressPublished: March 27,2012  "State Senate passes first version of budget bills" .. CLICK HERE

Waiver Of Out-of State Tuition Awaits Bryant’s Signature

To see the Mississippi Business Journal full article by Associated Press Published: March 27,2012 on "Bill allowing universities to waive out-of-state tuition awaits Bryant’s signature" Bill allowing universities to waive out-of-state tuition awaits Bryant’s signature"  CLICK HERE ...

B & B Foods Weekly Specials March 25 - 31

Sunday March 25th - Saturday March 31st

B&B FOODS 

Hwy 98 & 84  Bude, Ms

601-384-5710

Hours:  Mon - Sat - 8:00AM till 7:00PM 

Sun - 1:00PM till 6:00PM


This Weeks Specials 

Crosby Baptist Church Hosting 5K & 1 Mile Fun Run on Saturday, March 31st

March 25, 2012
ROXIE, MS - Every year The Youth of Crosby Baptist Church go to Centrifuge, a week-long Christian Camp in which they participate in Mission Projects plus worship with other teens. 

In an effort to raise funds to pay for transportation and camp fees the Crosby Baptist Church is hosting a 5K and 1 Mile FUN Run starting at 8:00 am on Saturday March 31, 2012.  Additional information and registration forms are available at the Crosby Baptist Church or you may contact the Church office at 601-639-7003. Registration Forms can be emailed by contacting Karen Hollowell at karen000@msn.com. 


Fees are as follows:

• 5 K Single Registration - $20 per person
• 5 K Single Registration (3 or more) - $50 per Family
• 1 Mile Fun Run Registration - $10 per Person 
• Family rate for both races - $75
• Donations are appreciated  

Prizes will be given to 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners in both Adult and Children's divisions. Walking Winners  will also be recognized  Every participant registered prior to March 12th  will receive a free t-shirt and water and healthy snacks provided along race route. 


The race/walk begins at Crosby Memorial Park, Hwy 33 / Oak St, Crosby, Ms at 8:00 am ... Late registration is from 7:00 am and closes at 7:45 am sharp in order to begin race.

   

Highway 33 North in Crosby

 

Sources:  FCNews Staff 

91 Yr Old Franklin County Resident Rescued Unhurt After Trek In The Woods

March 25, 2012
ROXIE, MS - The early morning started out bright and sunny for Mrs. Lola Mae Delaney, 91 years young, as she left home yesterday morning with her daughter, Bobbie Nell Delaney, on a drive from her house to visit one of her other daughters at her camp.   At about 6:15 pm she was found and rescued in the woods with a few scratches, bruises and little dehydration but otherwise in good shape for her 91 years.   Her being found and rescued continues to be consistent with the joint efforts of  MS Wildlife Officers, Franklin County Sheriffs Deputies, the Franklin County Constable, District 5 - Fire & Rescue Searchers and the Franklin County Emergency Management Agency Coordinator along with family members and other local volunteers.  

This is an interactive Map 

You may click on to get more details

The ordeal began when both her and her daughter apparently became confused as to the direction to her other daughters camp and they turned down the wrong road by turning one road too soon.  They drove through a locked gate where they proceeded down the timber access road until their car became stuck in a grass plot near the end of the road. 


The daughter, Bobbie Nell Delaney said "we got out of the car and walked back toward  Union Church Road and at one point my mother started away from the road into the woods."   She said she told her mother that "you are going the wrong way"  but her mother insisted that it was the right way out and continued walking into the woods.   At that point, Bobbie turned around and walked toward the Union Church Road, then walked north to Henry Lane where she was spotted and picked up by Mr. 'Clutch' Aldridge.  Mr. Aldridge then took her to her sisters camp. 


The family went back to look for Ms. Lola Mae shortly after noon but could not find her. The family continued to search but did no call for assistance until about around 4:00 pm. At that point the Mississippi Wildlife Officers, Franklin County Sheriffs Deputies, the Franklin County Constable, District 5 - Fire & Rescue Searchers and the Franklin County Emergency Management Agency Coordinator  responded.  The group began the search in the part of the woods where she was seen last but found no trace.  The search then was moved to the area where the car was located and she was found in that area at about 6:15 pm.   A little more than 2 hours after rescuers were called in. 


A Medic from Rapid Response was called to the scene and concluded she was fine other than a few cuts, scratches, a little dehydration and otherwise she was "doing pretty good for her age".   Franklin County Sheriff's Deputy Roger Causey brought Ms Delaney out of the woods on a 4-wheeler and reunited her with her family. 


A happy ending to an eventful day for Ms. Lola Mae Delaney.

Franklin County Ms News Blog Tops Over 6,400 Viewers

ROXIE, MS - The Franklin County Ms News Blog  has topped over  6,400 (six thousand four hundred) viewers since beginning its blog publication in November 2011.  The viewer count on February 1, 2012 was 928 viewers when Franklin County Ms News Staff began adding article posting to Facebook pages administered by the News Staff.  The viewership growth rate for the last 51 days has been an outstanding 591% (five hundred ninety-one percent).  


Using the criteria of 'most viewers per article'- the top 5 (five) articles are as follows: 


*  Severe Winds in Roxie Cause Damage to at least Two Homes / March 21, 2012
*  Roxie Volunteer Fire Department Responds to House Fire During ... Today! / March 21, 2012
*  Ongoing Investigation in County Thefts Continues Despite Recent Arrest / March 3, 2012
*  Franklin County Sheriff James Newman Reports Pharmacy Burglary / February 9 , 2012
*  One of Franklin County's Best Kept Secrets in Education / March 3, 2012

* Click on headline to visit article 

To view these top five articles (* you may click on title) and other articles you may visit the archive section located in the right column of front page.  Very favorable growth began as evidence of the Socialnomics of Facebook at work. 


Source: FCNews Staff 

After Surveying the Structure, Longtime Roxie Resident May Lose Home Due to Severe Storm Damage

ROXIE, MS -  Around 5:30 am  on Wednesday, March 21st the Franklin County area began getting heavy rain and the threat of severe windy weather. In the early morning hours, The National Weather Service issued a Tornado Watch for Franklin Area and surrounding counties until 12 noon. At around 10:45 am the watch was extended to 4:00 pm.  Mr. Mark Thornton, Franklin County Board of Supervisors Emergency Management Director, began posting and sending out information provided by the US National Weather Service in Jackson Mississippi  as quickly as he received it. As an example .... 

At around 11:00 am - Mr. Thornton posted - A new Tornado Watch has been issued for areas along and south of the I-20 Corridor...including the Jackson Metro Area. A strong/severe line of thunderstorms capable of producing tornadoes, gusty winds, small hail, and very heavy rainfall will push through SW Mississippi through the late morning hours. One to Two inches of rain per hour have been observed..causing localized flash flooding. Please continue to stay weather aware this afternoon. In addition to NWS radar web site and updates ...

Mr. Thornton was correct in his early warning as the weather moved in very rapidly.  Roxie received some major damage as the severe weather moved through the area. 

 Click on Video to see pictures of some of the damage 

and pictures of clean up as it began ...

Winds and rain continued in the area and the Town of Roxie began having severe gusts of wind around 11:15 am with the stronger winds coming in 'burst of lines' in different areas in and around the Town of Roxie.  Things slowed a little around 11:35 am and people started seeing damage and checking the area.  It was reported that about 8 large trees fell and two homes were hit with trees along with limbs, power lines, telephone lines and debris across property and streets.  Mr. and Mrs Aubrey Garner received only minor damage from a tree falling on their home even though it look really bad at the time; Mr and Mrs. Steve Farr received major damage as an oak tree fell completely across their house doing major damage to roof and interior walls, ceilings and floor.  Limbs torn several large holes in one bedroom, damaged ceiling in hallway as limbs torn through roof and the end of one limb torn into ceiling next to kitchen; plus other wall and structural damage cause by the weight of the trunk of the large tree and water damage from the heavy rain.  Even though people were at home when tree fell, no one was  hurt.  Mr. Farr reported that he felt the home may be beyond repair based on current structural damage.  He and his family are now staying with his mother, Mrs. Louise Farr who lives across street but received no damage.    The enclosed video shows some of the  interior damage to their home.  

A special thanks should go out to Town of Roxie employee's, Mark and Herman for their many hours of unselfish work.  Also, District Supervisor, Gary Cameron and his crew have been non stop since the weather arrived by surveying the damage and assisting in the clean up efforts.  Friends, neighbors and family have all pitched in to help each other.  

There have been other areas damaged but seems that the Town of Roxie 'took a good hit' but it keeps on ticking as its residents pull together to clean up the mess.  

If you know of any other damage or anyone needing assistance please put information in the comment section below this article.  Our staff will pass it on to the proper authorities. 

Source: FCNews Staff

Video by: Valuebroadcasting / Roxie Media Design

Franklin Advocate Weekly Paper Reports on Recent Burglary Arrest By Franklin County Sheriffs Dept

ROXIE, MS -  The Franklin Advocate has serviced the local Meadville area since 1915. As an example of its continued service of bringing the weekly news to the Franklin County, the paper (located in Meadville, Ms) has reported, in its weekly publication, the following information about recent crime activity in and around Franklin County plus the arrest of several persons believed to be involved.  The picture below was taken of the front page of volume 125 number 23  distributed on Thursday, March 22, 2012 by Franklin Advocate and is a further example of their continued  informational articles. 

Franklin Advocate is the official publication for Franklin County and the Towns of Bude, Meadville and Roxie, Ms.  The weekly publication has been owned and operated by the Webb Family for over 50 years and continues to inform the local citizens of Franklin County. 


Readers may  purchase the weekly paper for 50 cents per copy ($26.00 per year) at most local business locations in Franklin County or reader may subscribe to weekly paper at the rate of: 

• $22.00 per year for mail delivery in Franklin County 
• $26.00 per year for mail delivery in La & Ms 
• $28.00 per year for mail delivery in other states 

To subscribe to receive via weekly mail, you may send check or money order to Franklin Advocate, P O Box 576, Meadville, Ms 39653. Gift subscriptions are also available. For additional information call 601-384-2484 during normal business hours. 


Source: FCNews Staff
FCNews Photo 

Roxie Volunteer Fire Department Responds to House Fire During Severe Weather Today!

ROXIE, MS - During a short break in the severe winds and the pouring rain today, Roxie Volunteer Fire Department responded to another emergency at about 1:45 pm today.  A neighbor reported a  house on fire at its location on the north side of US Hwy 84 in Roxie.   A house believed to be rented by Athea Johnson and her family of Roxie, was considered a major loss as Volunteer Fire Chief James McNutt and Volunteer Firefighter Gary Cameron brought the flames under control.  Mr. Cameron is also the Franklin County District One Supervisor representing the local area.  The owner is unknown at this time.  It was also reported that no one was at home at the time of the fire.  

             

  More pictures and video of fire.

Severe wind toppled several large trees causing damage to several houses and taking down power lines and poles.  See additional pictures and stories by click here ... 

Source: FCNews Staff

Video by FCNews Staff

Severe Winds in Roxie Cause Damage to at least Two Homes

ROXIE, MS - Severe wind damage hits Franklin County and does damage to several homes in Roxie.  Trees were uprooted at several locations and one fire was reported.  At this time,  no one has reported an injury, but more damage is being reported throughout the county. 

Top Picture - Mr. & Mrs Steven Farr at #83 Second Street in Roxie, suffered damage to the roof of their home and some structural damage to the left front corner when high winds blew over a large oak tree in their yard.  Steve and his family are reported to be safe. The oak tree also damaged a Town of Roxie water line leading into the home and its roots ripped up the concrete embankment of the flood drainage ditch in front of the home.  

Side Picture - l to r - Volunteer Fire Chief Jim McNutt (in blue) Roxie Town Worker Herman Malone (in yellow) and County Supervisor Gary Cameron  survey the damage to home, ditch, power lines and water main.  Roxie Mayor, Ricky Wilson and County Supervisor Gary Cameron both said "that town workers in cooperation with the county workers would do whatever necessary to clean up and assist town and county residents after this storm" Both said "although the wind damage was major, we are so thankful that we currently know of no one that has gotten injured" . They said "it is going to take some time, so residents should be patient as we will try to get to everyone with our clean up efforts as quickly as possible".  

 

Mr and Mrs Aubrey Garner suffered slight damage to their home at 127 4th street in Roxie as a large oak tree was blown down and hit the corner of their home tearing the gutter and small area of roofing.  Their son, Willie Garner said ' Mom and Dad are ok and we did not know that the tree had fallen until I walked outside my home to look at other damage'.  Mr. Garner said 'we will wait for the weather to clear and Tony Mullins had volunteered to remove the tree'.  

Source: FCNews Staff

Homochitto Heritage Club Sets Bass Fishing Tourney for Sat, April 21st

 

MEADVILLE, MS -  The Homochitto Heritage Club will be sponsoring a Bass Fishing Tournament on Saturday, April 21 at beautiful Okhissa Lake located on Hwy 98 just east of Bude, Ms in Franklin County.   Tucked inside the Homochitto National Forest, Okhissa Lake is an 1,100 acre clear spring feed lake and recreation area. World-renowned bass fisherman “Bill Dance” has sanctioned Okhissa Lake as his first “Bill Dance Signature Lake”, as he was involved in the fish habitat from the planning stage, and the lake is home to bass, bream, crappie and catfish.

  

The Tourney Director is Eddie Roberts.   Mr Roberts is  owner of Eddies Marine and Tackle, 4550 Hwy. 84 West, Vidalia, LA 71373 - Phone:1 318.336.5133 or you may contact him via email  at FishingWithEddie@bellsouth.net.  Eddies Marine and Tackle is closed Sun and open Mon - Fri - 8:00 am - 5:30 pm - Sat - 8:00 am - 12:00 pm

Other information is as follows: 

• Time  6:00 am  (Daybreak)
• Entry Fee: 100.00 per person
• Ages   all ages, all groups welcome 

For additional details and entry forms, about the upcoming Bass Fishing Tournament on Saturday, April 21; please call Melanie at 601-384-6479 or Rhonda at 601-384-6030.  Proceeds from tourney go toward their local scholarship fund. 

The Homochitto Heritage Club, located in Meadville and is an affiliate of the Mississippi Federation of Women’s Clubs.  The local organization raises money for scholarship funds and community projects. 

Source: FCNews Staff

Franklin County Ms News Blog Tops 5,600 Viewers

ROXIE, MS - The Franklin County Ms News Blog  has topped over  5,600 (five thousand) viewers since beginning its blog publication in November 2011.  Using the criteria of most viewers per article, the top 5 (five) articles are as follows: 

Ongoing Investigation in County Thefts Continues Despite Recent Arrest / March 3, 2012

Franklin County Sheriff James Newman Reports Pharmacy Burglary / February 9 , 2012

One of Franklin County's Best Kept Secrets in Education / March 3, 2012

Franklin County Schools Set Valentine Day Celebration Delivery Rules / February 4, 2012

How Many Twins Do You Know in Franklin County was the Question ! / February 18, 2012

To view these top five articles and other articles you may visit the archive section in the right column.  The viewer count on February 1, 2012 was 928 viewers when Franklin County Ms News Staff began adding article posting to Facebook pages administered by the News Staff.  Very favorable growth began as evidence of the Socialnomics of Facebook at work. 

Franklin County Ms News Blog continues to be ...... "Your source and simple approach to information in Franklin County, Mississippi. Spread the word, read, participate and enjoy the most up-to-date news and information! Post your news or comments today and help keep us all informed. 

Source: FCNews Staff 

At A Glance - House Bill 1390 - All Physicians Performing Abortions Must Have Hospital Admitting Privileges and be Board Certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology

'At A Glance'

Mississippi Legislature at Work 

House Bill 1390 (As Passed the House) 

Description: Abortions; All physicians performing in abortion clinics must have admitting privileges at a local hospital.

Background Information:
   Disposition:    Active
   Deadline:   General Bill/Constitutional Amendment
   Revenue:   No
   Vote type required:   Majority
   Effective date:   July 1, 2012
History of Actions:
   1   02/20 (H) Referred To Public Health and Human Services
   2   02/28 (H) Title Suff Do Pass
   3   03/13 (H) Amendment Failed
   4   03/13 (H) Passed    {Vote} (to see how they voted ... click here)
   5   03/13 (H) Motion to Reconsider Entered (Myers, Mims, Barker)
   6   03/14 (H) Motion to Reconsider Tabled
   7   03/14 (H) Transmitted To Senate
Amendments:
     |     [H] Amendment No 1    Lost    Voice Vote
Code Section:   A  041-0075-0001
----- Additional Information -----
House Committee:   Public Health and Human Services
Principal Author:   Mims
Title: AN ACT TO AMEND SECTION 41-75-1, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO REQUIRE THAT ALL PHYSICIANS WHO PERFORM ABORTIONS IN ABORTION FACILITIES MUST HAVE ADMITTING PRIVILEGES AT A LOCAL HOSPITAL AND MUST BE BOARD CERTIFIED IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY; AND FOR RELATED PURPOSES.
Information pertaining to this measure was last updated on 03/14/12 at 10:56




Source: FCNews Staff / Mississippi Legislative Website

At A Glance - Senate Bill 2851 - Marriage License - Eliminate 3-day Waiting Period and Blood Test

'At A Glance'

Mississippi Legislature at Work 

Senate Bill 2851(click here to read content as passed)

Description: Marriage license; eliminate 3-day waiting period and blood test.

Background Information:
   Disposition:    Active
   Deadline:   General Bill/Constitutional Amendment
   Revenue:   No
   Vote type required:   Majority
   Effective date:   July 1, 2012
History of Actions:
   1   02/20 (S) Referred To Judiciary, Division A
   2   03/06 (S) Title Suff Do Pass
   3   03/13 (S) Passed    {Vote}
   4   03/14 (S) Transmitted To House
   5   03/19 (H) Referred To Judiciary A
Senate Committee:   Judiciary, Division A
House Committee:   Judiciary A*
Principal Author:   Sojourner
Title: AN ACT TO AMEND SECTION 93-1-5, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO ELIMINATE THE 3-DAY WAITING PERIOD FOR A MARRIAGE LICENSE AND TO DELETE THE REQUIREMENT FOR A BLOOD TEST FOR SYPHILIS; TO REPEAL SECTION 93-1-7, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, WHICH PROVIDES FOR THE RIGHT TO CONTEST THE ISSUANCE OF A MARRIAGE LICENSE BY ANY INTERESTED PARTY; AND FOR RELATED PURPOSES.
HOW THEY VOTED 
Mississippi State Senate
2012 Regular Session
YEAS AND NAYS On S. B. No. 2851.  On motion of Senator Sojourner, 
the rules were suspended, the bill considered engrossed, read the third time and, 
the yeas and nays being taken, it passed, title standing as stated, by the 
following vote:
Yeas--Blount, Brown, Browning, Bryan, Burton, Butler A. (36th), Butler K. 
(38th), Carmichael, Chassaniol, Clarke, Collins, Doty, Fillingane, Flowers, 
Gandy, Gollott, Hale, Harden, Harkins, Hill, Hopson, Horhn, Hudson, Jackson R. 
(11th), Jackson S. (32nd), Jolly, Jones, Jordan, Kirby, Lee, Longwitz, Massey, 
McDaniel, Montgomery, Moran, Parks, Polk, Simmons D. T. (12th), Simmons W. 
(13th), Smith, Sojourner, Stone, Tindell, Tollison, Turner, Ward, Watson, 
Wiggins, Wilemon.  Total--49.
Nays--Dawkins, Frazier, Jackson G. (15th).  Total--3.
Absent and those not voting----None.
DISCLAIMER: All information provided on the Mississippi Legislative Website is believed to be correct. However, no liability is assumed for errors in substance or form of any of the materials published on this website. Electronic versions of legislation available on this site do not display the text of these documents exactly as the printed versions.The information contained on this website is provided as a service to the Internet community. We try to provide quality information, but we make no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information contained in or linked to this website.



Source: FCNews Staff / Mississippi Legislative Website

Information to Help Restore the National Weather Service's Funding

ROXIE, MS - National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has proposed a $39 million cut in the National Weather Service's budget for FY2013, including a plan to remove the IT specialist from each of the 122 weather forecast offices. They are also planning to scale back the wind profiler network that is used to predict severe weather outbreaks, and shrink the tsunami prediction buoy network. Such cuts would unnecessarily degrade the ability for the National Weather Service to issue timely and accurate warnings for dangerous weather conditions. For a complete look at the NOAA Fiscal Year 2013 Budget click here.

With the mission to protect life and property, and enhance the United States’ economy, NOAA's National Weather Service is the sole official voice of the U.S. government for issuing warnings during life-threatening weather situations. 

From daily weather forecasts, severe storm warnings and climate monitoring to fisheries management, coastal restoration and supporting marine commerce, NOAA’s products and services (such as National Weather Service) support economic vitality and affect more than one-third of America’s gross domestic product. NOAA’s dedicated scientists use cutting-edge research and high-tech instrumentation to provide citizens, planners, emergency managers and other decision makers with reliable information they need when they need it. 

NOAA's roots date back to 1807, when the Nation’s first scientific agency, the Survey of the Coast, was established. Since then, NOAA has evolved to meet the needs of a changing country. NOAA maintains a presence in every state and has emerged as an international leader on scientific and environmental matters

Dr. Jane Lubchenco, NOAA Administrator says "NOAA’s mission touches the lives of every American and we are proud of our role in protecting life and property and conserving and protecting natural resources. I hope you will explore NOAA and how our products and services can enrich your own life."

You can visit NOAA's home web page and learn more by clicking here. 

Jonathan Lamb of Mount Pleasant, SC created a petition through the Change.org to give citizens a voice in this budget cut issue.   Change.org is a social action platform that empowers anyone, anywhere to start, join, and win campaigns for social change. Millions of people sign petitions on Change.org each month on thousands of issues, winning campaigns every day to advance change locally and globally. To get more information or sign the petition, click here. 

For additional information and a full article click on CNBC Article  

Source: FCNews Staff 

 

Weekly Specials - March 18-24 at B&B Foods - Bude, Ms.

Sunday March 18th - Saturday March 24th

B&B FOODS 

Hwy 98 & 84  Bude, Ms

601-384-5710

Hours:  Mon - Sat - 8:00AM till 7:00PM 

Sun - 1:00PM till 6:00PM

Buy 2  12 Pack Cans of Pepsi Cola for $ 7.00 ...  24 Cans at .2916 cents each 

Buy 10 Smileys BBQ Sandwiches for $ 10.00 ... 10 Sandwiches at $1.00 each 

Buy 2 - 10 oz Bags Lays Classic Chips for $6.00 ... 20 oz Chips at .30 cents per oz. 

For a single meal ... 2 Sandwiches, 2 oz Chips and a Pepsi for Less Than $2.90 (plus tax)

Mississippi Public Broadcasting - News - Mississippi Senate Votes To Suspend State Personnel Board Rules

For the full article click on > Mississippi Public Broadcasting - News - Mississippi Senate Votes To Suspend State Personnel Board Rules

YouTube Five Year Anniversary

Five Years of YouTube 

Watch how YouTube has changed over the last five  years.  

Farmweek TV, March 16, 2012, The Complete Show

Mississippi Market Maker for Mississippi Business 

Take a Short Tour of Sue's Greenhouse in Meadville, Ms

Sue's Greenhouse on Hwy 84 West, Meadville, Ms 

Open - Wed, Thurs, Fri & Sat  .. 

8am till 6 pm  

For additional information call 601-384-2976

Social Media is for Seniors, Too !

STARKVILLE, MS. Released: March 15, 2012
As Reported and Written By: Mariah Smith
Mississippi State University Computer Applications and Services


The fastest-growing segment of Facebook users in the United States is senior citizens. Unfortunately, many seniors feel lost when it comes to Facebook and other social media.


A common refrain I hear from many seniors is that social media is something that has passed them by or they just aren’t sharp enough to keep up with all this new-fangled technology. This is regrettable because our seniors have a great deal to offer. In fact, most of the information younger generations are looking up on sites like Google, YouTube and Pinterest are things most seniors already know.


For example, I recently took two college students on an overnight trip to conduct a workshop. One showed up late for the workshop because he had to look up how to iron a shirt on YouTube. He didn’t know how to do it, and his shirt was too wrinkled to wear otherwise. From sewing to cooking and everything in between, much of the information we look up on our computers is information our seniors already know.


However, social media sites allow senior citizens to keep up with grandchildren and give them a voice on local events. In the world of social media, the big names to know are Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, and Pinterest -- the newcomer to the group.


Facebook is the most popular website in the world with more than 800 million users worldwide. Facebook users can create a public account or a private account. A public account can be viewed by anyone, whereas a private account is viewable only by friends the user designates. Users can post status updates (which are brief updates about what is going on at the moment), photos, videos and events. Video chat is also available on Facebook. You might think of Facebook as a family reunion without the fried chicken.


YouTube is the second most popular website. YouTube allows users to upload videos for others to see. Some users upload video of baby’s first steps or video taken with cell phones during Mardi Gras. Others, like your Extension Service, post educational videos to help viewers learn how to plant a garden or prune rose bushes.


Twitter is a social media tool that is rapidly gaining ground. People post short messages to their Twitter account. These messages can be only 140 characters long; the messages are called tweets. People who read your tweets are called followers. It is possible to tweet photos and video, but those have to be posted through sites such as twitpic.com and twitvid.com. Tweets can also be delivered instantly to your followers’ cell phones.


When you see the hash tag symbol followed by a word (such as #hailstate), the hashtag means the word that follows is a category. The hashtag allows users to categorize their tweets. Anytime you tweet “#hailstate,” your tweet shows up in the #hailstate category search.


Pinterest is a social media tool that is incredibly popular with women. It requires an invitation from a user who is already on Pinterest. Once you are on Pinterest, you can create boards. These boards can be divided into categories such as recipes, decorating and parties. Think of them as digital corkboards. Once you create your board, you can “pin” photos to the board. It is very similar to cutting photos out of magazines and tacking them to a bulletin board for future reference. Others can follow your boards and see what you are pinning.


While there is nothing new under the sun, the way we access information has changed. Social media can be a bit overwhelming, but selecting the social media that meets your needs and helps you connect with your friends and family is key to success. 


Source:  MSU Ag Communications News / Press Release

House Bill 1196 Passed Requiring Pre-abortion Fetal Heartbeat Check

JACKSON, MS -  As reported by the Associated Press in the Mississippi Business Journal and published on  March 15, 2012 … A bill that would require physicians to search for a fetal heartbeat before performing an abortion passed the Mississippi House yesterday .. 

To read the entire article CLICK HERE

Mississippi Business Journal, 
200 N. Congress Street, Suite 400 
Jackson, MS 39201 
601.364.1000 or 800.283.4625 

House Bill 1256 Passed as Amended / YOU Fail Drug Test - YOU get NO Unemployment Benefits

JACKSON, MS -  The Mississippi Legislature, in 2012 Regular Session has passed House Bill 1256 as amended that provides an individual who is not hired for an otherwise suitable position, due to a positive drug test, is to be disqualified from receiving employment compensation benefits.  The full amended law can be read by clicking here.   

The Title: AN ACT TO AMEND SECTION 71-5-513, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO PROVIDE THAT AN INDIVIDUAL WHO IS NOT HIRED FOR AN OTHERWISE SUITABLE POSITION DUE TO A POSITIVE TEST FOR ILLEGAL SUBSTANCES, INCLUDING DRUGS, SHALL, FOR PURPOSES OF THE MISSISSIPPI EMPLOYMENT SECURITY LAW, BE DEEMED TO HAVE FAILED TO ACCEPT SUITABLE WORK WHEN OFFERED HIM AND AS SUCH SUBJECT TO DISQUALIFICATION FROM RECEIVING EMPLOYMENT COMPENSATION BENEFITS; TO PROVIDE THAT A DISQUALIFIED INDIVIDUAL MAY PROVIDE INFORMATION TO END THE DISQUALIFICATION PERIOD EARLY BY SUBMITTING ACCEPTABLE PROOF TO THE MISSISSIPPI DEPARTMENT OF EMPLOYMENT SECURITY OF A NEGATIVE TEST RESULT FROM A TESTING FACILITY APPROVED BY THE DEPARTMENT; TO PROVIDE THAT AT ANY TIME DURING OR AFTER THE ASSESSED DISQUALIFICATION PERIOD, THE MISSISSIPPI DEPARTMENT OF EMPLOYMENT SECURITY MAY REQUIRE THE INDIVIDUAL TO SUBMIT ACCEPTABLE PROOF TO THE DEPARTMENT OF A NEGATIVE TEST RESULT FROM A TESTING FACILITY APPROVED BY THE DEPARTMENT IN ORDER TO REINSTATE THE INDIVIDUAL AND RESUME THE ISSUANCE OF BENEFITS UNDER MISSISSIPPI EMPLOYMENT SECURITY LAW; AND FOR RELATED PURPOSES. 

Source: Public Records

Week of 3/5 "At A Glance" .. Teachers Get Credit Cards, Judges Get Raises, and Etc

AT A GLANCE  

Mississippi House of Representatives  

THE WEEK OF MARCH 5TH  

During the first part of the week, House members were devoted to addressing bills in committee in anticipation of Tuesday’s 8 p.m. deadline to move all general bills out of committee and onto the House Calendar. 


In committee this week, Judiciary B passed House Bill 729 (HB729) which states consumption of alcoholic beverages by individuals under 21 years of age will be treated as a misdemeanor. Minors are already prohibited from purchasing and/or possessing alcoholic beverages. A conceptual amendment to provide for religious exceptions was passed. 


The full education committee passed House Bill 488 (HB488). HB488 focuses on illegal immigration. In addition to broader provisions to deter illegal immigration, this bill states that students must be able to present an original birth certificate or a ertified original if one is requested. If a child of an unlawful alien cannot produce the birth certificate, they have 30 days to notify the school they are illegal. Additionally, each school district will be required to provide an annual report on the number of illegal aliens who are students. Federal law states that identifying the children by names is unlawful. 


On the floor Wednesday, House Bill 928 (HB928) was reconsidered whereby it failed to pass on Tuesday. It passed by a vote of 65-54 Wednesday. HB928 proposes to allow certain municipalities (those that are currently dry) to determine on their own whether they would want to emerge from the “dry law” for limited alcohol sales. This law only applies to a municipality with a population of at least 5,000 people. A petition and a passing vote of 20 percent must occur. Once an area passes the vote, hotels and restaurants in the municipality would be allowed to sell alcohol by the glass only. 


Judicial Pay Raise was also contested on the floor and passed 83-37. House Bill 484 (HB484) enacts judicial pay raise over four years at a rate slightly higher than 7.5 percent annually. Mississippi currently has the lowest paid judges in the country. This increase would bring judicial pay in line with the average pay in the Southeast and help prevent turnover. This increase does not involve additional general funds. Increased civil filing and appellate court fees would be used to fund the increases in salaries. 


House Bill 1095 (HB1095) waives the out-of-state tuition policy for universities and institutions of higher learning if fiscally responsible. Each year, Mississippi loses students to neighboring state schools that have similar policies intact. The goal is to retain Mississippi students and attract out-of-state students who can bring in additional revenue. HB1095 passed 120-0 Thursday, House members addressed and passed 88 bills on the Noncontroversial Calendar. They covered topics such as prohibiting manhole covers from being sold as scrap metal to proper disposal of prescription drugs. 


House Bill 1094 (HB1094) is referred to as the Scrap Metal Law bill. With the increased problem in manholes being stolen, this bill adds manholes into the current scrap metal law. The bill passed. House Bill 1019 (HB1019) passed 73-46. It permits beer breweries to provide samples subject to certain conditions. Many states have tasting tours, and HB1019 will permit people with permits to brew beer the ability to offer limited amounts (no more than six ounces) of beer on premise to visitors aver 21 years old and within the hours of 8 a.m. and 10 p.m. 


Classroom supplies were addressed with House Bill 821 (HB821). This bill allows school districts to distribute procurement cards to teachers for the purchase of classroom supplies. The cards will have a predetermined expiration date on them and the allotted $150 that each teacher is granted for supplies. This bill attempts to eliminate paperwork and ensure that all teachers receive the money they are entitled to for their classroom supplies. The bill is intended to ensure that these funds are used for classroom supplies. Teachers will be required to turn in receipts from their purchases. HB821 passed 121-0. 


Members also passed House Bill 423 (HB423). This bill focuses on prescription drug abuse and proper disposal of prescription drugs. On the first Monday of each month, Mississippians will be permitted to go to the Bureau of Narcotics Task Force to turn in medicine they no longer use. There are 12 locations around the state. The task force members check in the medication, maintain records and keep them in a safe location. This bill assists law enforcement agents by attempting to cut down on prescription drug abuse and environmental concerns. This issue received national attention from people flushing medicines down the toilet, which affects water supplies. 


Visitors to the Capitol this week included Republican Presidential Candidate and former Speaker of the US House of Representatives Newt Gingrich. Gingrich visited the House members on his tour of the South Thursday, March 8. Dr. Howard Clark of Morton was recognized with House Resolution 56 for his long career of serving the citizens of Mississippi. Miss Mississippi Mary Margaret Roark from Cleveland visited the Capitol and thanked members for their work and dedication. Rep. Martinson commended the Special Olympics Athletes of Mississippi for their outstanding achievements in athletics. She also welcomed Special Olympian Loretta Claiborne to Mississippi. House Resolution 20 was read in their honor. It recognized them on their athletic accomplishment

Source: Mississippi House of Representative BillStatis Page / Public Records