Author: Josh

UMMC clinics statewide resume normal operations after a cyberattack, Louisiana hits key LABI economic benchmarks ahead of schedule, and LSU is reinstating ACT/SAT requirements for applicants. A Natchez house fire is under investigation with no injuries reported.

Natchez aldermen have extended Horn Properties’ option for another year on a 30‑acre city-owned tract across from Natchez High School, giving the developer more time to pursue a retail center near Walmart while issues such as access from Sergeant Prentiss Drive are resolved.

Natchez Mayor probes steep property tax hikes and may seek an independent reappraisal; residents urged to appeal. Also: bigger Louisiana tax refunds, UMMC cancels appointments after a cyberattack, and a no‑burn order continues.

Concordia Parish is weighing a remodel of its 1970s courthouse amid facade, leak and heating concerns, though no decisions have been made. New state data show private auto rates down about 6% and commercial rates up about 6%; the United Cajun Navy has joined the search for Nancy Guthrie, Mississippi wildlife cadet applications are open…

Two people have been arrested and a third is sought after a violent robbery outside Hibba Sports in Vidalia; Amazon will invest $12 million in a multi-technology data center between Caddo and Bossier, promising about 6,200 jobs; and UMMC clinics statewide remain closed after a cyberattack.

President Trump approved a major disaster declaration for nine north Louisiana parishes after last month’s winter storm, allowing federal reimbursement of 75% of state and local recovery costs; homeowners should report damage at damage.la.gov. Regional briefs: investigators probe a Natchez grass fire, a Mississippi audit finds cybersecurity shortfalls, and a bill would expand shrimp enforcement.

Natchez John Doe identified as 70‑year‑old William Francis Harrington; Louisiana lawmakers propose an animal‑abuser registry. Mississippi posts higher graduation rates as seafood season begins.

Adams County may see lower employee health insurance premiums next year after fewer claims, while lawmakers advance a bill to form a task force studying the statewide child-care center and teacher shortage. Lent has increased seafood demand—oysters are in peak condition—and Carnival season ended with Archbishop James Chequeo’s first New Orleans festivities. The Mississippi River…

Adams County is racing to finish Natchez–Adams County Airport renovations ahead of SkyWest service July 1. Meanwhile Louisiana has banned soda, energy drinks and candy from SNAP purchases, FEMA approved public‑assistance grants for 18 Mississippi counties (including Adams), and more districts are shifting to four‑day weeks.

A dirt bike reported stolen in 2022 from Ouachita Parish was recovered in Natchez after an Adams County deputy spotted a 16‑year‑old on private property; a VIN check confirmed the 2007 Honda CRF150 was stolen and the motorcycle was seized. The investigation is ongoing.