Mississippi’s Republican Gov. Tate Reeves has set special elections to replace two members of the Mississippi House of Representatives who died in 2024.

On Friday, the governor’s office set special election dates for House districts 23 and 82. Reeves also set four other special elections in three Chancery court districts and one Circuit court district.

In House District 23, former Rep. Andy Stepp, R-Pontotoc, passed away on Dec. 5, 2024. He was a first-year lawmaker and a proponent to change laws surrounding pharmacy benefit managers.

Andy Stepp passes away: A first-year Mississippi House of Representative member has died. See what his colleagues say

Stepp’s seat will have a special election on March 25, and those wishing to run for his seat need to qualify by Feb. 3.

In House District 82, Rep. Charles Young Jr., D-Meridian, also passed in December. He was remembered as an advocate for changing the state flag in 2020, which previously featured a Confederate battle flag emblem.

Young passes away: Meridian, MS, House lawmaker dies Thursday. His colleagues reflect on his life, service

Young’s district will also have its special election on March 25 and those wanting to run will also need to qualify by Feb. 3.

To see other special elections this year, visit the governor’s office website.

Grant McLaughlin covers the Legislature and state government for the Clarion Ledger. He can be reached at gmclaughlin@gannett.com or 972-571-2335.

Trademark Southern charm, alluring natural scenery, and an engrossing cultural landscape vividly depict what to expect from the Magnolia State. Mississippi has vibrant communities, history, and serene small towns that offer a perfect escape. Here, you can find picturesque landscapes, friendly locals, and a pace of living that encourages relaxation and reflection.

Whether you’re strolling through Civil War battle sites in Port Gibson or simply taking in the beauty of the coastal landscapes of Bay St. Louis, Mississippi’s most relaxing communities invite you to slow down and appreciate life’s simple pleasures. The following towns invite you to slow down and gravitate toward what truly matters.

Natchez

This quaint community on the Mississippi River exudes Southern charm. Natchez is famous for several antebellum mansions that transport guests through time. A tour of Melrose offers a window into the pre-Civil War period, with a chance to browse rare furnishings from the times and admire its Greek Revival architecture. Additionally, Stanton Hall represents an excellent example of Classical Revival structures in the town. Constructed in the mid-19th century, it has a palatial facade that compels first-timers to snap a photo.

While Natchez hosts a string of festivals throughout the year, visiting during the Natchez Food and Wine Festival puts you in the ideal setting to let loose and forget your troubles. This fun extravaganza incorporates everything from Southern dishes and fine wines to intimate art to ensure guests have a memorable experience.

Bay St. Louis

Visitors can relax and rejuvenate in the welcoming atmosphere of Bay St. Louis. This Gulf Coast community beckons: convenient, clean, and uncrowded.

Bay St. Louis Theatre offers family-friendly theatrical productions that promise to induce a laugh. Meanwhile, history lovers will enjoy a tour of the Bay St. Louis Historic L & N Train Depot, which tells the story of rail in town.

Hattiesburg

With its green parks, welcoming community, and family-friendly attractions, Hattiesburg endears itself to travelers of all preferences. It encourages them to embrace the beautiful outdoors at Paul B Johnson State Park and make the most of countless recreational activities. These range from picnicking and boating to swimming and fishing on the shores of Geiger Lake. Meanwhile, the Longleaf Trace offers the perfect avenue to let your hair down and feel the wind on your face during a remarkable biking excursion along the paved 44-mile route.

Vacationing families can expect to have a blast at the Hattiesburg Zoo. This 12-acre sanctuary promises rare encounters with exotic wildlife species from across the globe, including flamingoes, emus, wallabies, and alligators.

Laurel

An eclectic arts scene draws holidayers to this pleasant Jones County locality. Laurel is home to multiple art venues, highlighted by the Lauren Rogers Museum of Art. The facility boasts a world-class collection of over 2,000 items, including rare Native Indian antiques. Meanwhile, theatergoers can get inspired by watching performances at the Laurel Little Theatre. Beyond the arts, military heritage is on display at the Veterans Memorial Museum.

Alternatively, you can blow off steam in the quiet environment of Mason Memorial Park. This 25-acre nature space allows holidayers to reconnect with nature through lazy strolls and nonchalant picnics under shady trees.

Greenville

Greenville has something for everyone. Guests are spoilt for choice whenever they want to experience the open spaces. However, you can’t go wrong at Warfield Point Park. The little sanctuary has a cool environment and grassy picnic areas with unprecedented panoramas of the Mississippi River. The downtown area boasts a cluster of taverns like Spectators Pub & Patio.

Finally, the Greenville History Museum has eye-opening exhibits, including one about the Jewish community in Greenville.

Cleveland

Cleveland stands out among relaxing Mississippi towns because of the variety of experiences offered to tourists. It is home to the Grammy Museum of Mississippi, a music-centered venue paying tribute to the contributions of Mississippi residents to the music industry and the evolution of the Grammy Awards. Cleveland is also home to the Bologna Performing Arts Center, where local talent and college groups perform. This world-class venue at Delta State University stages entertaining theatrical performances, such as concerts, plays, and musicals.

Elsewhere, historically inclined visitors can peruse rare memorabilia and listen to fascinating stories depicting Asian heritage at the Mississippi Delta Chinese Heritage Museum. Additionally, the Martin & Sue King Railroad Museum has exhibits on the railroad history in the south.

Columbus

Travelers should expect positive vibes in Columbus, Mississippi. Its residents are delightfully welcoming, earning the nickname the “Friendly City.” The town is along the Tombigbee River and the Columbus Riverwalk & Trail. This 4.4-mile route is a great attraction. But if you don’t mind a little commotion, you can catch an adrenaline-filled spectacle at the Magnolia Motor Speedway. The dirt track treats natives and visitors to fun races in a family-friendly atmosphere.

Meanwhile, downtown Columbus has an exciting display of antebellum structures. In addition to admiring the architecture of the Tennessee Williams Home & Welcome Center, stepping inside exposes tourists to the inspiring life of the celebrated playwright.

Port Gibson

Home to less than 2,000 residents, Port Gibson has a quintessential, small-town feel. The Grand Gulf Military State Park is located in Port Gibson. This 400-acre site hosted the Battle of Port Gibson, preserving the town’s landmark role during the historic conflict. Unsurprisingly, several historic homes provide a window into the bygone eras. The A.K. Shaifer House is prominent among them and transports you back to the 1820s, where the first shot marking the start of the Battle of Port Gibson was fired.

After the immersive trip down the region’s war heritage, you can free your mind and relax with a low-key round of golf at the beautiful Mosswood Golf Course. Or explore the Windsor Ruins ten miles outside of town: 23 standing Corinthian columns of the largest antebellum Greek Revival mansion ever built in the state

Ocean Springs

Ocean Springs, Mississippi, is a quiet town. A laid-back coastal atmosphere allows visitors to let their guard down and revel in the tranquility of Ocean Springs Beach. Its smooth sands are ideal for lazy lounging as you wait for the spectacular sunsets over the water. Alternatively, you can mingle with the hospitable townspeople while shopping for assorted goods at the Ocean Springs Fresh Market. This is also an opportunity to savor delicious Southern-style seafood.

On the other hand, the indoor inclined will have a great time watching intimate artistic creations at the Walter Anderson Museum of Art. Furthermore, a charming experience awaits at the Charnley-Norwood House, which dates back to the 1890s and was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright and Louis Sullivan.

Clarksdale

The Clarksdale community honors the blues. The Delta Blues Museum in Clarksdale exhibits memorabilia and artifacts about blues music. Numerous entertainment venues throughout downtown welcome guests to partake in their musical culture, including Ground Zero Blues Club. You can find a quiet corner spot and order booze as you listen to the live band play sweet tunes.

Clarksdale is also home to the landmark Cutrer Mansion. Built in 1916 by Bayard Cairnes, the Italian Renaissance building portrays various aspects of culture and history in the Mississippi Delta area.

Meridian

This charming Lauderdale County village has a vibrant art scene. Expect an immersive cultural experience, starting with a tour of the Meridian Museum of Art. The venue is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and supports local arts through exhibitions, programs, and classes. For a dose of local culture, those who prefer live performances can opt for a show at the MSU Riley Center.

When not engrossed in the arts, you can relax on the green grounds of Bonita Lakes Park. The 3,300-acre nature area is an outdoor lover’s playground, rewarding travelers with recreations like hiking, fishing, horseback riding, and paddling on the lake’s calm waters.

Final Thought

Every once in a while, escape to any of the above relaxing Mississippi towns for a deserved break from the everyday hustle in the United States. These charming destinations invite you to unwind, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and welcoming communities. Between taking nonchalant strolls on the sandy beaches of Ocean Springs and exploring the captivating history of Natchez, it is an invitation to embrace the slower pace of life in Mississippi and discover the tranquility that awaits in these hidden gems.