Uninsured and underinsured Tunica County residents will soon be able to save money on prescription drugs and customary dental services, thanks to the county’s membership in a national government association.
As part of its membership in the National Association of County Officials (NACO), Tunica County is able to enroll in the discount programs which, thanks to the size of NACO’s membership, will mean savings for eligible residents.
“It’s two programs we’re enrolling in – one is a discount prescription drug program and the other one is a discount dental program,” said Tunica County Supervisor Phillis Williams.  “It’s for all the residents who don’t have insurance. It’s not something for those who already have insurance coverage.”
According to Williams, there is no cost for the county to participate in either program, which is made available to all counties holding an active membership in NACO.

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For the 10th anniversary of Tunica Main Street’s Delta Day Festival on October 29, the focus is on family entertainment.
From the traditional children’s costume contest and tractor pull to the day’s music, Delta Day will be full of all day fun for all ages.
“One new thing this year is a NASA exhibit for children from the Stennis Space Center on the Coast,” Main Street director Lynn Ryals said. “We’re excited to have it here and also to welcome back familiar faces from years past.”
Downtown’s Rivergate Amphitheatre will host a pair of local favorites: rising country singer/songwriter KC Johns, from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., and blues legend-in-the-making James “Super Chikan” Johnson from  2-5 p.m.

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At a special meeting on Sept. 17, the Tunica County Board of Supervisors approved a $47 million budget and a 30 percent increase in ad valorem taxes. The county’s next fiscal year begins Oct. 1.
According to notes provided by county administrator Clifton Johnson, the budget represents a three percent decrease from the last fiscal year. Approximately $3.4 million generated from the tax increase will be used to pay “debt service.”
Various entities will see reductions in appropriations from Tunica County. Tunica Museum received a $79,000 reduction from the previous year, and Paul Battle Arena’s budget was reduced $75,000. The airport commission’s funding was reduced $45,000. The solid waste budget was reduced by $41,000, and Tunica National’s was cut by $12,000. Two positions have been eliminated in the Recreation Department and one position will be eliminated in the county administrator’s department with the retirement of an employee in January.

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With the release of the Mississippi Department of Education’s accountability data, the Tunica County School District is staring at a D at the top of its test paper.
Superintendent Steve Chandler said just like grades in the classroom, the new scale used to measure districts and schools ranges from A through F. Chandler said it provides a model everyone is familiar with and gives the community a clear picture of “where (the district) stands.” Grades are based on performance in state assessments and growth standards, with completion requirements also playing a part for the high school and the district itself.

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