SUMMARY: In Mississippi, many individuals with mental health issues are imprisoned instead of receiving appropriate care, leading to tragic outcomes, including deaths. A new law aims to address this by requiring mental evaluations before civil commitment and allowing jail only for those deemed actively violent, limiting detention to a maximum of 24 hours. This legislation has already led to a significant decrease in mental health admissions from jails to state hospitals—58% fewer in one year. Improved access to mental health services is a key focus, as officials emphasize that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Hundreds of mental health patients in Mississippi have been jailed without ever being charged of a crime.

It’s a reality for hundreds of people needing mental health care in Mississippi every year. When there’s not enough resources to help them, Mississippi’s alternative has been to put them in jail. In a handful of cases, people have died behind bars waiting for help, and doctors say that going to jail could increase the risk of suicide for someone who is already experiencing a mental health crisis. READ MORE: https://www.fox13memphis.com/health/mississippi-mental-health-patients-have-been-jailed-without-being-charged-new-state-law-aims-to/article_ff9d9a3a-9151-11ef-a9ef-d73a9b8da2a3.html

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SUMMARY: In East Tennessee, leaves have recently begun changing color due to cooler temperatures and shorter daylight hours. This seasonal shift signals leaves to stop producing chlorophyll, the green pigment essential for photosynthesis. As chlorophyll breaks down, other pigments become visible, resulting in vibrant yellows, oranges, and reds, varying by tree type. Ideal conditions for vivid fall colors include a dry late summer followed by sunny, cool autumn days. The recent sunny, cool weather in the region has contributed to the striking display of fall foliage, making the leaves change more vibrantly.

10News breaks down why the leaves change color as the temps drop.

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SUMMARY: Several small businesses in Hartford were flooded when the Pigeon River overflowed after a storm. One affected business is The Bean Trees Cafe, owned by Michelle Quar, who described her struggle to recover. Initially a small coffee shop, the cafe has grown to become Quar’s livelihood over 21 years. Floodwaters caused extensive damage, with her equipment floating and severe cleanup challenges due to toxic sludge. Quar, who sustained a chemical burn during the process, expressed gratitude for community support and hopes her café can serve as a symbol of hope as Hartford works towards recovery in the coming weeks and months.

Many small businesses are struggling after historic flooding hit many parts of East Tennessee.

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