The Latest from the Mississippi Pine Belt
Lamar County Nonprofits Work to Strengthen Disaster Response
Local nonprofit leaders are working to better coordinate volunteers, donations and relief efforts after they said the May 2026 tornado highlighted the need for a more organized disaster response network.
Jamba Joloff Opens Downtown, Expands Hattiesburg Dining Scene
Jamba Jollof, a new restaurant offering West African-style cuisine, has opened in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. It is Mississippi’s only brick-and-mortar West African restaurant.
Trump’s Disaster Declaration Provides Aid for 5 Tornado-Stricken Mississippi Counties
Under the president’s approved declaration, the Federal Emergency Management Agency will provide Individual Assistance to residents in the following counties: Franklin, Lamar, Lawrence, Lincoln and Wilkinson. Four of those counties will also qualify for FEMA’s Public Assistance program.
Trump Approves Federal Aid for Mississippi’s May Storm and Tornado Damage, But Details Unclear
On Tuesday, President Donald Trump said he has approved Gov. Tate Reeves’ May disaster declaration request, unlocking federal funding for areas affected by the severe weather. Trump did not specify which Mississippi counties will be eligible for the funds, nor detail the types of assistance offered under the declaration.
Pine Belt News
Longleaf Trace Removes All Water Fountains Over Homelessness Fears, Alarming Trail Users in Summer Heat
Water fountains disappeared from the Longleaf Trace in June as the board that governs it grew concerned about how homeless people were using its facilities. Runners and bikers who use the 44-mile trail fear the decision could have dire consequences in the summer heat.
Gulf Coast Voices
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Pine Belt People
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Pine Belt Culture
Richton Shares Splash Pad Funding, Operations Details
The town of Richton, Mississippi, has released additional information on the town’s new splash pad, including about the project’s operations and funding.
