What do you love about Mississippi?

by Mississippi Today, Mississippi Today
May 30, 2022

The people. The ocean. The hospitality. The music. The arts.

These are just a few of the reasons why our readers love Mississippi.

At Mississippi Today, we work hard to produce news and resources that keep Mississippians informed and hold our public officials accountable. Why? Because we — like you — love Mississippi.

Over the past six-plus years, Mississippi Today readers have come to rely on coverage that helps them navigate the ups and downs of an ever-changing news cycle. Investigative reporter Anna Wolfe has a passion for amplifying the voices of those in our state who need the most help. Her recent series, The Backchannel, chronicles how former Gov. Phil Bryant used the governor's office to exploit a dysfunctional welfare system for personal interests.

The stories that matter most to us are the ones that give you answers to the questions no one else is asking.

From famous storytellers to those who are everyday heroes featured in Marshall Ramsey's Mississippi Stories series, this great state has a host of voices ready to share their unique experiences — and people on the other side ready to listen.

Here's a recent example of how our public service journalism model allowed us to share a story of a local resident in desperate need of answers:

Earlier this month, we published an article by our community health editor Kate Royals about a 61-year-old Madison resident Frank Dungan, in need of a liver transplant from the state's only organ transplant program at the University of Mississippi Medical Center. But, because of the ongoing contract dispute between his insurer Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Mississippi and UMMC, he is currently ineligible for a transplant at the hospital. 

Kate's story detailed the challenges he faced getting answers from both his insurer and UMMC on how to proceed or the outright costs of his procedure. Insurance Commissioner Mike Chaney wrote a letter to BCBS and UMMC attorneys to advocate for Dungan, asking for a response. Our health team continues to cover the ongoing dispute and possible resolutions.

“I chose to work here because of my family and because I believe in Mississippi Today's mission.” 

Kate Royals, Community Health Editor

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So why donate to Mississippi Today? Here's what some of our members had to say – you might feel the same way: 

“Mississippi is my home. Change is on the horizon. This will require reliable reporting/news.” – Betty D.

“You are providing citizens vital and unbiased information to inform our thinking and actions.” – Mary T.

“I need an honest view of what's happening in Mississippi.” – Kathie G.

“I want to be a part in building a better Mississippi.” — Meade E.

“All of our member funding goes directly toward our journalism by funding costly records requests…hosting community events…and making sure our staff can care for their families with healthcare and other costs.” 

Alyssa Bass, Product Engagement Coordinator

If you agree with these members that Mississippi needs independent journalism like Mississippi Today, join the crowd by creating a recurring donation of any amount today. 

This article first appeared on Mississippi Today and is republished here under a Creative Commons license.