The Natchez Soup Pot is requesting community assistance to help provide Christmas meals for local residents in need. Donations of potato salad, dinner rolls, and desserts are being accepted. Items may be delivered to the Natchez Soup Pot at 69 East Franklin Street through December 23 between 7:30 a.m. and 2 p.m., Monday through Saturday.
Louisiana officials report that statewide high‑speed internet access is now expected to be achieved by 2028, two years earlier than previously planned. ConnectLA Executive Director Vineeth Iyengar attributes the updated timeline to progress already made, noting that 93 percent of the state currently has connectivity. He said efficiency in construction and the work of participating companies have contributed to advancing efforts to reach the remaining 7 percent of residents without access.
Blood banks across Mississippi are reporting a critical shortage of donations. Mississippi Blood Services has issued an urgent appeal ahead of the Christmas holiday, and the American Red Cross is also working to increase contributions during a period when donations commonly decline. Winter months typically see a drop of about 21 percent in blood donations, while the need for transfusions often rises. Blood supplies are limited to a 42‑day shelf life. All blood types are needed, with a particular need for types O and B. Individuals 16 and older who are in good health are eligible to donate.
The Louisiana Public Service Commission has approved a rule intended to speed up the process for large developments, including data centers, to access necessary energy. The rule removes the requirement for utilities to prove that new power generation is the cheapest and most reliable option. The Alliance for Affordable Energy has raised concerns that the change could increase costs for residential customers, noting ongoing affordability challenges for many households.
The Mississippi River level at Natchez‑Vidalia is recorded at 12.30 feet and falling.
