Mississippi News
Gulf Coast project is a finalist for major federal funding
Project to boost Gulf Coast economy is a finalist for major federal funding
A coalition led by the University of Southern Mississippi that aims to jumpstart economic development on the Gulf Coast is a finalist for federal stimulus funds from the U.S. Economic Development Administration.
The Gulf Blue Initiative is one of 60 finalists for EDA's “Build Back Better Regional Challenge,” a program funded by the American Rescue Plan Act to bolster pandemic recovery and help communities overcome decades of economic divestment.
At this stage, GBI will receive $500,000 to further develop its proposal. In March, the EDA will award up to $100 million to 20-30 programs.
Coastal Mississippi has one of the nation's most diverse collections of economic ventures seeking to capitalize on the resources of the ocean, according to a 2019 study. But two decades of floods, hurricanes and the Deepwater Horizon oil spill have left the Gulf Coast economy over-reliant on tourism, an industry that is vulnerable to those same disasters.
“We need this for the Gulf Coast,” said Shannon Campbell, the senior associate vice president for USM's Coastal Operations. “It's time.”
FOLLOW THE MONEY: How will Mississippi spend billions in federal pandemic stimulus dollars?
GBI's proposal seeks to chart a way out of that cycle by using ARPA funds for three projects that will support efforts focused on developing more “blue economy,” STEM and light manufacturing jobs. Those include expanding USM's Gulf Park Business and Workforce Education and Conference Complex and creating the “Gulf Blue accelerator program” and web portal for start-ups.
The initiative estimates these projects will create more than 3,300 jobs, 15 new startups, and higher wages across the Coast.
Campbell said the initiative intends for those jobs to be filled by Mississippians.
“Stopping the brain drain is definitely the first priority,” she said. “We have some incredibly talented people that are leaving our state for better opportunities in other states, and we really have got to be more aggressive about how we keep them here.”
The initial $500,000 will still be useful for the Coast even if the coalition does not receive a final award, Campbell said. GBI will use the initial round of funding to launch the accelerator program and bring in consultants who will create a plan that the coalition can use to help coastal communities develop their own strategic plans focused on the blue economy.
“A well-designed, well-thought-out proposal will be to the benefit of the region for many years to come,” Campbell said.
This article first appeared on Mississippi Today and is republished here under a Creative Commons license.
Mississippi News
Three Northeast Mississippi players receive MHSAA Miss Softball honors
SUMMARY: The MHSAA announced the annual Miss Softball winners, with three recipients coming from Northeast Mississippi who are currently competing for a state championship. In the 3A category, Mantachie's Ramsey Montgomery won the award with impressive batting and pitching statistics. Lucy Cochran from East Union won the 2A award for the second consecutive season, showcasing exceptional pitching and hitting skills. Emma Mayer from Myrtle was recognized in the 1A category for her outstanding hitting performance this season. All three players have excelled in their respective categories and are contributing significantly to their teams' success in the playoffs.
The post Three Northeast Mississippi players receive MHSAA Miss Softball honors appeared first on www.wcbi.com
Mississippi News
Humid next few days with storm potential at times – Home – WCBI TV
SUMMARY: An increase in humidity is expected in Columbus, Mississippi over the next couple of days, with storm chances likely on Wednesday night. Tuesday will be warm and breezy with a few showers and storms possible in the afternoon, some of which may become locally strong. Wednesday will see the potential for widespread showers and storms in the evening as a strong cold front moves through, with the possibility of severe weather. However, nicer weather is expected for the weekend with gradual clearing on Friday and drier conditions on Saturday, although isolated showers may return on Sunday into Monday.
The post Humid next few days with storm potential at times – Home – WCBI TV appeared first on www.wcbi.com
Mississippi News
JSU welcomes new Women’s Basketball coach
SUMMARY: Margaret Richards has been named the new head coach for the Jackson State Women's Basketball team, marking a new era for the Lady Tigers. Richards previously coached at Alabama A&M for eight years before joining Mercer's staff. She is excited for the new challenge and looks forward to meeting alumni and continuing the team's tradition and history. Richards replaced Tomekia Reed, who left to become the head coach for the Charlotte 49ers. She is eager to hit the ground running and build upon the success of the team.
The post JSU welcomes new Women's Basketball coach appeared first on www.wjtv.com
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