PB native, psychologist on TV show
Pine Bluff native Jameca Woody Cooper, Ph.D, is taking her expertise in criminal psychology to a new role on the Discovery Channel’s crime show “Caught!”
Cooper is a clinical and criminal psychologist with more than 20 years of experience. She is the president and clinical director of Emergence Psychological Services, a St. Louis-based practice specializing in providing mental health services to underserved communities, according to a news release.
On “Caught!,” she will provide insights into the minds of criminals, analyze their motivations, and explain how forensic evidence is used to bring them to justice.
A 1992 graduate of Watson Chapel High School, Cooper brings her unique perspective and hometown connection to the show, which delves into the stories behind real-life crimes and the innovative forensic techniques used to crack them, according to the release.
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
“I’m incredibly excited to be part of ‘Caught!’ and to share my expertise with a national audience,” said Cooper. “As a native of Pine Bluff, I’m particularly passionate about using my platform to raise awareness about important issues facing my hometown. I believe that ‘Caught!’ can not only entertain viewers but also educate them about the realities of crime and the vital role of criminal psychology in investigations.”
She has appeared on national TV networks and has been featured in The Wall Street Journal. Cooper is now using her platform to shed light on the complex world of criminal psychology and the crucial role it plays in solving crimes.
USDA discrimination aid available
Farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners who experienced discrimination in U.S. Department of Agriculture farm lending programs before January 2021 may be eligible for the Discrimination Financial Assistance Program.
USDA continues to accept applications for the program. The deadline to apply is Jan. 13, 2024, according to a news release.
Borrowers can apply for assistance online via 22007apply.gov or through a paper-based form. All applications received or postmarked before the Jan. 13, deadline will be considered. Filing an application is free and doesn’t require a lawyer.
On 22007apply.gov, applicants can get information on how to obtain technical assistance in-person or virtually, and additional resources and details about the program. Applicants can also call the free call center at (800) 721-0970 or visit an office. Locations are provided on the program website and vendors will update the local events schedule with more information as it becomes available.
If there are concerns about working with USDA based on past experiences, USDA has partnered with community-based organizations to conduct outreach to underserved groups. To support producers throughout the application process, USDA is ensuring that organizations with extensive experience conducting outreach to farm organizations are able to support individuals who may be eligible for the program.
These groups include AgrAbility, the Farmer Veteran Coalition, Farmers’ Legal Action Group, Federation of Southern Cooperatives, Intertribal Agriculture Council, Land Loss Prevention Program, National Young Farmers Coalition, and Rural Coalition. Details: 22007apply.gov.
McGehee School Board to meet
McGehee School Board will meet at 5 p.m. Monday at the high school library. The agenda includes recognition of Students of the Month, awards, invoices and financial statement, student academic data or performance information, administrators’ reports, and executive session, according to a news release.