Category: Mississippi News

NATCHEZ, Miss. — One day after a devastating fire severely damaged the historic Delta Fuel headquarters building in downtown Natchez, the structure continues to emit light smoke from lingering hot spots as firefighters monitor the site.

Although no flames were visible Monday, occasional smoke could still be seen rising from portions of the damaged building.

The Natchez Fire Department is continuing to monitor the historic Delta Fuel headquarters building by sending firefighters to the scene at scheduled intervals to check for lingering hot spots and ensure there are no flare-ups.

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Fire officials emphasized that seeing smoke is expected as debris continues to cool.

“If you see smoke, don’t worry,” firefighters said. “If you see flames, please contact us immediately.”

A section of Main Street between North Union Street and North Commerce Street remains closed to traffic while officials continue evaluating the damaged structure. Businesses along the affected section of downtown remain open and are welcoming customers despite the road closure.

Sunday’s fire caused catastrophic damage to the historic Delta Fuel headquarters building after firefighters were dispatched shortly before 5 a.m. While the building’s exterior walls remain standing, the interior was extensively damaged by the fire, including the collapse of the roof and second floor.

The accompanying ground-level and aerial photographs provide a closer look at the damage left behind by Sunday’s fire. They also highlight the remarkable work of firefighters, whose efforts kept the blaze confined to the historic Delta Fuel headquarters building and protected neighboring downtown businesses despite the close proximity of the surrounding historic commercial buildings.

What could have become an even greater disaster was prevented through the coordinated efforts of firefighters from across the Miss-Lou.

Firefighters from the Natchez Fire Department, Vidalia Fire Department, Adams County volunteer fire departments and numerous assisting agencies successfully contained the blaze to the historic Delta Fuel headquarters building.

During Sunday’s response, Natchez Fire Chief Robert Arrington confirmed there had been “no fire extension,” allowing surrounding businesses and historic buildings to escape fire damage.

The outcome is especially remarkable considering the age of the downtown buildings and how closely they are situated together. Although the interior of the historic Delta Fuel headquarters building suffered catastrophic damage, firefighters prevented the blaze from spreading beyond its walls and protected the surrounding historic commercial district.

The cause of the fire has not been released, and the investigation remains ongoing.

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NATCHEZ, Miss. — The City of Natchez officially recognized July 13 as “Julyteenth Day” Monday, with Mayor Dan Gibson issuing a proclamation commemorating the day Union troops arrived in Natchez in 1863 to enforce the Emancipation Proclamation and bring freedom to thousands of enslaved people in the region.

Speaking from the front steps of City Hall, Gibson described July 13 as “one of the most important days in the history of our city,” saying many residents may not fully understand the significance of the date.

The ceremony opened with a prayer by Rev. Clifton Marvel of Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church before Gibson reflected on a weekend of community events that culminated with Monday’s proclamation. Activities included historical presentations, discussions on healing and reconciliation, a wreath-laying ceremony at Forks of the Road, and educational programs highlighting Natchez’s role in American history.

Why July 13?

The Emancipation Proclamation, issued by President Abraham Lincoln, took effect on Jan. 1, 1863, declaring that enslaved people in Confederate-held territory were to be free. However, enforcement depended on the advance of Union forces during the Civil War.

According to the City of Natchez proclamation, Union troops entered Natchez on July 13, 1863, enforcing the Emancipation Proclamation locally and bringing freedom to thousands of enslaved men, women and children in the area. Because of that historical event, city leaders say July 13 holds special significance in Natchez’s history.

The date is distinct from Juneteenth, observed nationally on June 19 each year. Juneteenth commemorates June 19, 1865, when Union Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger announced in Galveston, Texas, that enslaved people there were free, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation took effect. Juneteenth became a federal holiday in 2021.

The Natchez proclamation notes that July 13, 1863, occurred nearly two years before the events traditionally commemorated by Juneteenth in Texas.

Proclamation recognizes city’s past and continued remembrance

The proclamation also acknowledges Natchez’s place in the history of American slavery, noting that the city was home to Forks of the Road, one of the nation’s largest slave markets.

“Slavery was a profound moral evil that denied the God-given dignity of human life,” the proclamation states.

It further recognizes that the arrival of freedom transformed Natchez into a destination for formerly enslaved people seeking liberty and describes how Forks of the Road later became a place where newly freed men enlisted in the United States Colored Troops.

“As we commemorate Julyteenth, we honor the resilience, determination, and enduring spirit of those who endured unimaginable hardship,” the proclamation states. “We also reaffirm our responsibility to remember this history, educate future generations, and continue striving for understanding and reconciliation in order to better achieve equality and opportunity for all.”

The proclamation concludes by encouraging residents “to pause to remember the sins of the past, to celebrate the remarkable progress together that we as a community have made, and to recommit ourselves to the work that still lies ahead.”

Community leaders reflect on the observance

During his remarks, Gibson credited the late Ser Seshsh Ab Heter-C.M. Boxley, known locally as Ser Boxley, with helping preserve the history of Forks of the Road and promoting recognition of July 13’s significance.

“If it were not for his efforts, Forks of the Road would have been forgotten,” Gibson said. “It is Ser Boxley who brought about the remembrance that July 13 was the day that freedom arrived in Natchez.”

The mayor also recognized the work of the National Park Service, including former Natchez National Historical Park Superintendent Kathleen Bond and park ranger Jeff Mansell, along with community volunteers who organized the weekend’s commemorative events.

Ward 1 Alderwoman Valencia Hall shared that members of her family, Henry Cole Sr. and Henry Cole Jr., served in the 58th United States Colored Troops Regiment.

“I’m grateful for my relatives who served as members of the U.S. Colored Troops 58th Regiment here in Natchez,” Hall said, adding that she was thankful their service continues to be remembered.

Gibson also announced that the Mayor and Board of Aldermen were expected to consider awarding a contract during Tuesday’s meeting for a memorial park honoring the United States Colored Troops. The proposed park would be located on the Natchez bluff where soldiers once assembled before formations.

A growing “Freedom Season”

Downtown Natchez Alliance Executive Director Chesney Doyle said the recognition of Julyteenth further defines what she describes as Natchez’s local “Freedom Season.”

According to Doyle, the season begins with Memorial Day and continues through several commemorative dates, including the city’s Day of Unity on June 14, Independence Day on July 4, Juneteenth, and now Julyteenth on July 13.

Looking ahead

Mayor Gibson said he hopes the proclamation will remain on display at City Hall as a reminder of an important chapter in Natchez’s history.

“We as a people need to come together now more than ever before to realize those dreams of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness,” Gibson said before closing the ceremony. “May God bless Natchez.”

NATCHEZ, Miss. — A massive early morning fire heavily damaged the historic Delta Fuel headquarters building on Main Street in downtown Natchez on Sunday, but an aggressive response by firefighters from across the Miss-Lou prevented what officials say could have become a devastating fire involving an entire downtown city block.

According to the Adams County Sheriff’s Office, Adams County E911 received a 911 call at approximately 4:58 a.m. reporting smoke and the smell of smoke in the area around 500 Main Street. Firefighters were initially dispatched for what was believed to be a possible electrical fire. Upon arrival, crews found heavy smoke and a rapidly growing fire inside the Delta Fuel building.

The Natchez Fire Department was joined by the Vidalia Fire Department, Concordia Fire Department, Adams County volunteer firefighters, Entergy, Atmos Energy, Natchez Water Works, AMR, law enforcement and numerous other agencies in a response that lasted for hours as crews battled to keep the blaze from spreading to neighboring historic buildings.

Natchez Fire Chief Robert Arrington said firefighters initially entered the structure and knocked down visible flames before discovering the fire had originated in the basement.

“We got the call this morning before five o’clock of smoke showing in the area,” Arrington said. “On arrival, we had heavy smoke showing from the building… We discovered that the fire was coming from the basement of this building.”

Arrington said conditions inside the basement quickly became too dangerous for firefighters to continue an interior attack.

“Tried to make entry into the basement, but conditions weren’t safe because the fire had been burning for so long,” he said. “Right now we have the fire contained strictly to this one building. There has been no fire extension, which is great news for us.”

Although portions of the roof and second floor collapsed during the fire, crews successfully kept the flames from spreading beyond the Delta Fuel building.

Mayor Dan Gibson praised the firefighters and first responders for preventing what could have become one of the most destructive fires in downtown Natchez’s history.

“It could have been a real tragedy. It could have spread through the entire city block,” Gibson said. “Your quick work… you’ve really saved the city today.”

Later, while addressing firefighters gathered outside the scene, Gibson again thanked the crews for their efforts.

“Y’all saved Natchez today. Thank you so much.”

Officials confirmed that all known occupants were safely evacuated from the affected buildings and that no injuries had been reported among civilians or emergency responders.

The Delta Fuel headquarters building, a downtown landmark dating to the late 1800s, serves as the workplace for approximately 50 employees. Gibson said city officials are already working with the Vegas family to establish temporary office space so employees can continue working while recovery efforts begin.

Despite the extensive damage, Gibson expressed optimism that the building can ultimately be restored, noting that the historic structure qualifies for historic preservation tax credits and is insured.

Community Comes Together

As firefighters continued extinguishing hot spots throughout the day, businesses, organizations and residents from across the community rallied to support the emergency crews.

Restaurants and local businesses delivered meals, drinks and supplies throughout the day, while volunteers helped distribute food, water, ice and sports drinks to firefighters working in extreme heat.

Among those providing assistance were Pig Out Inn, Natchez Market, The Natcheesian, 1720 Gallery, Wardo’s, the Downtown Natchez Alliance and numerous other businesses and volunteers.

Mayor Gibson echoed that sentiment, thanking everyone who stepped forward to help.

“It’s been a community effort, for sure.”

Gibson also praised neighboring agencies that responded without hesitation, including the City of Vidalia.

“Immediately when I called him this morning, he dispatched their ladder truck,” Gibson said of Vidalia Mayor Buzz Craft. “It’s been a community effort.”

Fire Chief Arrington also thanked the many agencies, businesses and volunteers that supported firefighters throughout the day.

“Thank you to everybody that came out to help. We really, really appreciate it.”

Nearby businesses also experienced the impact of the fire.

Amanda Hudson, owner of PureStrength Studio, said everyone associated with her business was safe but that it remains unclear when they will be able to return to their building.

“We’re not sure at this point if we’ll be able to get back in our building for the next few days,” Hudson wrote on Facebook. “Please keep our Delta Fuel neighbors in your prayers. Their building is devastated.”

The Adams County Sheriff’s Office continues to ask the public to avoid the downtown area while firefighters monitor the structure, extinguish remaining hot spots and engineers evaluate the building’s stability.

The cause of the fire has not been released, and the investigation remains ongoing.

While the Delta Fuel headquarters building suffered catastrophic damage, officials say the greatest success of the day was what did not happen. Through the coordinated efforts of firefighters from across the Miss-Lou and overwhelming support from the community, the fire was contained before it could spread through one of Natchez’s most historic business districts.

As the day’s response began winding down, one sentiment was shared repeatedly among those gathered outside the scene:

“God bless Natchez.”

NATCHEZ, MS – Organizers have announced the entertainment lineup for the 41st Annual Natchez Balloon Festival, offering a mix of nationally recognized artists, Louisiana favorites, blues talent and regional performers for this year’s celebration.

Now entering its 41st year, the Natchez Balloon Festival has become one of the city’s longest-running annual events, drawing visitors to the Mississippi River each year for a weekend that combines live entertainment with the colorful spectacle of hot air balloons. The festival has grown into a signature attraction for Natchez, celebrating the community while showcasing music, food, art and family-friendly activities.

Headlining the 2026 entertainment lineup is Grammy-nominated rock band Tonic, known for hit songs including If You Could Only See, Open Up Your Eyes and You Wanted More.

Joining Tonic on the schedule is Journey From the Heart, a tribute performance celebrating the music of Journey and Heart. Festivalgoers will also hear from Terrance Simien & The Zydeco Experience, award-winning ambassadors of Louisiana zydeco whose energetic performances have reached audiences around the world.

The lineup continues with Mathias Lattin, one of the emerging names in contemporary blues, as well as regional favorites Sammy Qadan & The Second Hand Smokers, known for blending rock, blues and Southern influences, and The Chee Weez, a Gulf Coast party band recognized for its energetic stage show and audience interaction.

In addition to live music, attendees can enjoy spectacular hot air balloons, local food and beverages, arts and crafts vendors, family-friendly activities and the scenic backdrop of the Mississippi River that has become synonymous with the annual festival experience.

Tickets for the 41st Annual Natchez Balloon Festival are on sale now at www.natchezballoonfestival.com.[vc_single_image image=”273793″ img_size=”large” alignment=”center”]

NATCHEZ, Miss. – When a United Airlines regional jet touches down at the Natchez-Adams County Airport on July 1, it will mark the culmination of years of work by Mayor Dan Gibson, the Adams County Board of Supervisors, Airport Director Carl Beasley and numerous business and tourism partners who have pushed to restore commercial air service to Southwest Mississippi.

With less than a month remaining before the inaugural flight arrives, representatives from the City of Natchez, Adams County, Visit Natchez, the Natchez Area Chamber of Commerce, SkyWest Airlines and dozens of local businesses gathered Wednesday morning at the Natchez Convention Center to discuss preparations for what many believe could become one of the most significant economic development milestones in recent city history.

The new service will connect Natchez directly to Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport through United Airlines’ partnership with SkyWest Airlines, providing residents and visitors access to hundreds of domestic and international destinations through United’s global network.

Speaking to stakeholders, Gibson described the upcoming arrival as another major achievement in the city’s ongoing “Natchez Renewal” effort, which began nearly seven years ago.

“What a great way to celebrate the seventh year beginning than to have a commercial jet landing in Natchez, Adams County, July 1,” Gibson said.

Gibson credited a collaborative effort between the city, county and airport leadership for helping bring the project to fruition. He specifically praised Adams County Board President Angela Hutchins, Supervisor Wes Middleton, County Administrator Mitzi Conn and Beasley for their work throughout the process.

“People ask me all the time about the airport, and I remind them all the time, it’s a team sport,” Gibson said. “The real leader in our team is the county.”

For years, community leaders have argued that expanded transportation options were essential to attracting investment, supporting tourism and improving access to the region. The upcoming United Airlines service will provide travelers with direct access to one of the nation’s largest airline hubs, allowing passengers to connect to destinations throughout the United States and around the world.

Beasley provided an update on the extensive renovations and improvements made at the airport to prepare for commercial service. Upgrades have included terminal renovations, Transportation Security Administration screening facilities, new signage, passenger amenities and operational infrastructure needed to accommodate airline operations.

“The county has done a Herculean job of making this happen,” Beasley said while showcasing the transformation of the airport terminal and grounds.

Representatives from SkyWest Airlines and the consulting team that helped secure the route emphasized that while obtaining commercial air service was a major accomplishment, maintaining it will require continued support from residents, businesses and visitors throughout the region.

Officials discussed ongoing marketing efforts designed to encourage travelers from Southwest Mississippi, Central Louisiana and neighboring communities to choose Natchez as their airport of departure rather than driving to larger regional airports.

During the question-and-answer session, attendees asked whether all of the new jobs associated with commercial air service had already been filled. Beasley said both the Transportation Security Administration and the airport itself are still actively recruiting employees ahead of the July 1 launch.

“As far as I know, TSA is still seeking employment. You go to USAJobs.gov and they are still hiring,” Beasley said. “I am hiring. I’m looking for linemen out there to work the airport, fuel the aircraft, marshal the aircraft, cut the 672 acres of grass, maintenance. So yes, there are jobs to be had.”

Beasley said the airport continues to seek workers for a variety of operational and maintenance roles as preparations continue for the arrival of United Airlines service next month.

The inaugural flight is scheduled to arrive July 1, when city and county officials plan to host a public celebration welcoming passengers to Natchez.

For Gibson, the significance extends beyond aviation.

“We’ve been saying it all along,” he told attendees. “It’s happening in Natchez.”View the meeting below:

NATCHEZ, Miss. –  Adams County supervisors were undecided Monday on whether to join Natchez officials in building pickleball courts near the city-county swimming pool at Liberty Park.

The Natchez Board of Aldermen voted last week to pursue this after turning down plans advocated by Mayor Dan Gibson for pickleball courts at Duncan Park.

Alderman Valencia Hall – the most outspoken opponent of having pickleball at the city-owned Duncan Park – asked the Board of Supervisors to consider helping fund an alternative venue at the county-owned Liberty Park. However, the supervisors were noncommittal.

County board President Angela Hutchins said the board would discuss it further later. Supervisor Ricky Gray said he wants to hear Natchez pickleballers’ opinions about whether they’d be OK with relocating their play away from Duncan Park, where they currently hold court on a makeshift basis at its tennis center. However, Supervisor Wes Middleton said Duncan Park is the best place for pickleball.

After heated debate and a public hearing in May, Natchez aldermen voted 4-2 against the popular racket sport being played at Duncan Park’s tennis courts. Hall said the proposed plan to split up three Duncan Park tennis courts into the smaller pickleball courts would be at the expense of tournaments’ need for all existing 10 tennis courts. However, Gibson and others say pickleball’s growing popularity demands having courts dedicated exclusively for it at the city’s main recreational park.

A possible alternative has emerged with Beau Pre Country Club converting some of its tennis courts for pickleball, but Hall said such a venue should be available for the public and not exclusively for private club members. She said state or federal grants could potentially be available to help build the Natchez-Adams County pickleball venue along with local funds and subsidies from national pickleball associations.

Middleton expressed annoyance at Hall for asking supervisors to help construct pickleball courts after she and other aldermen declined in the past to help the county fund softball fields or repair tornado sirens located in the city.

NATCHEZ, Miss. – City aldermen clashed again Tuesday over the pickleball controversy as they voted 4-2 against the popular racket sport being played at Duncan Park’s tennis courts. However, they did agree to pursue a plan for pickleball courts being built near the Natchez-Adams County swimming pool at Liberty Park.

  

The Board of Aldermen voted to solicit cost proposals for resurfacing courts at the city-owned Duncan Park and North Natchez Park exclusively for tennis. As proposed by Alderman Valencia Hall, they could not be lined for pickleball — as some tennis courts are now at Duncan Park on a makeshift basis.

 

However, the board voted 4-2 against Alderman Sarah Carter Smith’s motion to let two current Duncan Park tennis courts be divided up solely for pickleball. 

 

As an alternative, Hall persuaded aldermen to initiate future discussions with Adams County supervisors to jointly build a city-county pickleball facility near the Natchez-Adams County Aquatic Center and soccer fields. They’re at the county-owned Liberty Park.