Operation Christmas Child heads into final weekend 11/20/2009 11:41:00 AM Their shopping carts give them away. The plastic shoebox-sized containers, tiny toys, toothbrushes, school supplies and small, stuffed animals are sure signs of an Operation Christmas Child shopper. Golden Triangle stores have been filled with them.
Stark Aerospace unveils new facility 11/17/2009 10:51:00 AM In front of a large crowd of community and business leaders and elected officials, the ribbon was cut Monday on Stark Aerospace’s new 86,000-square-foot facility at the Golden Triangle Regional Airport.
IRS: More than 100 area residents due refunds 11/14/2009 7:02:00 PM The Internal Revenue Service reported 951 Mississippi tax refunds, totaling $781,314, are undeliverable, including refunds to more than 100 local residents; the average Mississippi refund is $822.
‘Open House Extravaganza’ in West Point 11/13/2009 10:26:00 AM WEST POINT — It’s that time of year again. And the holiday shopping season is getting a kick start in West Point with the Christmas Open House Extravaganza, Sunday. From 1 p.m. until 5 p.m., 22 stores will open for business in the Mossy Oak Outlet, around town and in historic downtown.
West Point department head cleared of charge 11/3/2009 9:34:00 AM WEST POINT — A not-guilty verdict in the trial of one of West Point’s Water and Light Department heads has sparked allegations of favoritism.
Convicted murderer sentenced to death 10/31/2009 7:38:00 PM After hours of deliberation, an Oktibbeha County jury has decided to put Bobby Batiste,29, to death for the 2008 murder of his roommate.
West Point schools to recycle milk jugs 10/30/2009 10:06:00 AM WEST POINT — Each day, West Point’s six schools dispose of about 5,000 half-pint plastic milk jugs.
Maben man indicted for 2002 slaying 10/30/2009 10:06:00 AM ABERDEEN — The Monroe County grand jury has indicted a Maben man on capital murder charges stemming from a 2002 slaying.
Tony Williams Davis Jr. is accused in the Feb. 19, 2002, death of Judith Eileen Jones.
Halloween weekend events scare up plenty to do 10/29/2009 10:38:00 AM A quick look around the Golden Triangle reveals no shortage of ways for goblins large and small to get into the festive spirit. Check out this sampling of events ranging from costume contests to fall carnivals taking place during the next three days. Keep in mind, inclement weather could affect some outdoor events.
Clay supes wrangle over outstanding fines 10/23/2009 9:38:00 AM WEST POINT — Clay County Sheriff Laddie Huffman took issue Thursday with supervisors’ assertions that his department was not aggressively collecting unpaid fines, but said he had no objections to the county contracting with nCourt electronic filing services to collect the delinquent Justice Court fees.
Clay County Circuit Court 10-23-09 10/23/2009 9:38:00 AM Clay County Circuit Court convened Oct. 5 with Judge Lee Howard presiding. Action taken by the court included:
Man dies in head-on collision 10/22/2009 11:00:00 AM ABERDEEN — A Tennessee man is dead after the 18-wheeler he was driving collided head-on with a Ford sport utility vehicle, according to Monroe County Coroner Alan Gurley.
Crime Stoppers pays $1,600 for arrests 10/22/2009 11:00:00 AM WEST POINT — Golden Triangle Crime Stoppers assisted in the arrest of eight individuals and helped recover $4,000 worth of stolen property in the last month.
Coroner: Clay County death was homicide 10/21/2009 9:46:00 AM A Forest man’s shooting death in Clay County has been ruled “consistent with a homicide” following provisional autopsy results.
Clay County Coroner Alvin Carter declined further details about the Friday death of Danelle Young, 21, of 285 Hughes Road in Forest, citing an ongoing investigation by the Clay County Sheriff’s Office. The shooting was initially reported as accidental.
Forest man dies in Clay County shooting 10/19/2009 9:19:00 AM A Forest man was killed Friday night in Clay County in what is being reported as an accidental shooting.
Cold-case trial to be held next year 10/18/2009 12:07:00 AM WEST POINT— It likely will be late 2010 before a West Point man stands trial for two murders and assault, according to Clay County Sheriff’s Department Chief Deputy Eddie Scott.
College Board gives final approval to EMCC nursing degree 10/16/2009 9:31:00 AM MAYHEW — The state College Board has granted final approval for an associate degree nursing program at East Mississippi Community College’s Golden Triangle campus.
West Point bus strike on hold through Friday 10/15/2009 9:56:00 AM Union officials have agreed to hold off on a bus driver strike — which would include West Point School District drivers — at least through Friday.
Noxubee economic development head resigns 10/14/2009 10:58:00 AM Brian Wilson, chief economic development officer for Noxubee County, today announced his departure from the Noxubee Alliance effective Jan. 1, 2010.
West Point braces for bus driver strike 10/14/2009 10:39:00 AM WEST POINT — A planned bus driver strike didn’t happen today, but the West Point School District is telling parents to be prepared to find other ways for their children to get to school.
Boy, 14, shoots at 90-year-old in robbery attempt 10/14/2009 9:38:00 AM BROOKSVILLE — A Brooksville 14-year-old who tried to force his way into a 90-year-old woman’s home to rob her — and failing at that, trying to shoot her — was arrested by Brooksville police.
“We had a possible burglary and shooting (but) no one hurt,” said Brooksville Police Chief Tina Williams.
West Point names interim police chief, deputy clerk 10/14/2009 9:38:00 AM WEST POINT — During a three-hour executive session, the West Point Board of Selectmen tapped West Point Police Department Officer Bobby Lane as interim police chief and Reba Mattix as named deputy clerk.
The West Point board voted 4-1 in August to fire former Police Chief Steve Bingham.
Clay supes delay plans to collect fines 10/9/2009 11:17:00 AM The Clay County Board of Supervisors tabled plans to allow a web-based collection agency to begin pursuing more than $1 million in unpaid justice court fees during its Thursday meeting.
West Point clerk: I don’t want to resign after all 10/7/2009 10:04:00 AM WEST POINT — West Point City Clerk Robin Perry continues to await an opportunity to appear before the city’s Board of Selectmen to discuss the withdrawal of his letter of resignation in September.
The city clerk position is one of two key West Point jobs in limbo as the board decides how to handle the pending opening at clerk and the continuing search for a new police chief to replace Steve Bingham, whom the board fired Aug. 11.
Arts council sponsors photo competition for area amateur photographers 10/7/2009 10:04:00 AM WEST POINT — A photo competition began Oct. 1 in West Point, inviting area amateur photographers to get “in focus.”
“West Point: In Focus” is a new photo competition sponsored by the West Point/Clay County Arts Council. Slated to run until Oct. 30, the contest is open to anyone of any age, who lives, works or attends school in West Point or Clay County.
Company will employ 34 at Macon facility 10/6/2009 9:18:00 AM MACON — This morning Noxubee County celebrated the opening of its latest industry — Exterior Profiles Corp. — with a ribbon-cutting ceremony this morning.
Local students to celebrate Walk to School Day 10/3/2009 6:29:00 PM West Point and Columbus students will commemorate Walk to School Day Oct. 7 by walking or riding their bikes to school, or taking time out for a walk during the day.
Program trains seniors to re-enter work force 10/3/2009 6:23:00 PM Experience Works is looking for more than two dozen senior citizens to begin on-the-job training programs — and possibly find gainful employment — at locations around the Golden Triangle.
West Point clerk says he was on verge of firing, resigned instead 10/3/2009 6:13:00 PM West Point City Clerk Robin Perry’s recent resignation may have preempted his firing by the city board. Perry submitted a verbal resignation during a meeting of the West Point Board of Mayor and Selectmen Sept. 17 amid allegations of improper conduct.
Aberdeen police to retire official's ticket to file 10/2/2009 9:37:00 AM ABERDEEN — The Northeast Mississippi Officials Association, the Aberdeen Police Department and Aberdeen High School resolved differences Wednesday that stemmed from an incident last week at an Aberdeen High home football game.
Foundations push back against PEER report 10/1/2009 9:25:00 AM After having their budgets slashed for the next three years by the state Legislature, Mississippi universities are a step closer to facing changes in private fundraising.
Navistar: Workers had warning of layoffs 10/1/2009 9:25:00 AM WEST POINT — Employees at West Point’s Navistar plant had advance notice their jobs would be cut, said a company spokesperson.
Navistar officials Friday announced 80 employees were cut from the West Point staff, leaving about 120 people working at the facility off Eshman Avenue, which produces mine-resistant, ambush-protected vehicles.
Navistar lays off 80 more workers 9/30/2009 10:24:00 AM WEST POINT — A county already stricken with one of the highest unemployment rates in the state, got another dose of bad news Friday: Navistar cut about 80 employees from its staff.
Bad call? Football refs may not show up for Aberdeen game 9/30/2009 10:24:00 AM Aberdeen High School’s ability to serve as host Friday night to Winona for the teams’ scheduled football game could be in question after an incident last week involving a football official and members of the Aberdeen Police Department.
Noxubee launches high-speed Internet initiative 9/29/2009 9:46:00 AM Working since June with a consortium of 41 Mississippi counties currently under-served with the technology, officials with the Noxubee Economic and Community Development Alliance have launched an initiative to provide high-speed Internet access to all residents of Noxubee County.
Jobs outlook offers little relief for area 9/25/2009 9:49:00 AM Federal Reserve chairman Ben Bernanke may say the recession is over, but the recovery is a jobless one for the Golden Triangle so far.
Area universities brace for cuts 9/24/2009 9:31:00 AM State universities know the cuts are coming, and now it’s time to separate the necessary from the expendable.
The Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning board has projected a 5 percent cut, which could inflate to 10 percent, in funds across state schools in 2010, followed by another 10 percent cut in 2011 and an additional 20 percent cut in 2012.
Traffic accident claims life of EMCC student 9/23/2009 9:38:00 AM A traffic accident on Highway 45 near Scooba claimed the life of Davishe Walker of West Point. Walker, a freshman, was an honors student at East Mississippi Community College and a member of the concert choir and marching band.
Noxubee man dies in one-vehicle wreck 9/22/2009 9:27:00 AM A Noxubee County man died this morning in a one-vehicle accident three miles south of Shuqualak on Highway 45 South, the Mississippi Highway Patrol reported.
Best of the Triangle winners 9/22/2009 9:16:00 AM Here is a complete list of the 2009 Best of the Triangle winners. For the first time ever, The Dispatch opened the contest to the entire Golden Triangle area. Additionally, we have published the 1st, 2nd and 3rd winners.
Heavy rains threaten crops, cause accidents 9/22/2009 9:16:00 AM Rain, rain, go away and don’t come again another day soon.
Extremely high amounts of rainfall, unusual for September, adversely have affected many facets of life, from crops to cops and the accidents to which they respond.
Rain doesn’t dampen Hamilton Day; event draws record crowd 9/19/2009 9:52:00 PM HAMILTON — Rain didn’t stop the people of Hamilton Saturday from showing appreciation for their community, while contributing funds for community improvements.
State approves Sunday liquor sales in Starkville 9/16/2009 10:24:00 AM The State Tax Commission this morning approved the city of Starkville's request to allow restaurants to sell liquor and wine on Sundays.
Fall enrollment grows by 26 percent for East Miss. Community College 9/10/2009 9:57:00 AM MAYHEW — East Mississippi Community College was braced for crowds at registration this fall, but reality surpassed expectations as EMCC posted an enrollment increase of nearly 26 percent over last year.
Catfish farms on a downward slope 9/8/2009 9:19:00 AM Catfish pond acreage in Mississippi continues to decline, with the high cost of production and poor prices partly to blame.
EMCC nursing school delayed 9/8/2009 9:19:00 AM A plan for a new East Mississippi Community College nursing school and allied health facility has stalled before takeoff.
Bus GPS systems aid schools 9/6/2009 6:24:00 PM Parents be comforted and errant students beware: The Columbus Municipal School District, in partnership with Waters Transportation Services, LLC, is tracking your every move to and from school.
Prairie Arts Festival draws visitors from near, far 9/5/2009 8:20:00 PM West Point’s Prairie Arts Festival is making a name for itself.
The hundreds of area residents who attended the 31st annual festival Saturday were joined by many out-of-state visitors, drawn to the festival through tales of good food, entertainment and shopping opportunities.
Ritz application for resort status meets little opposition 9/1/2009 10:34:00 AM West Point’s plans to apply to the State Tax Commission for resort status for the newly renovated Ritz Theater met little opposition Monday during a public hearing.
Local rapper keeps God at the forefront 8/31/2009 10:49:00 AM As a music and a culture, hip-hop is full of divisions. While most artists are forced to affiliate themselves with one side or another, Quentin “Krucial” Rupert of West Point, an MC for Columbus-based Retro South Music, walks right down the middle.
Public hearings tonight on alcohol sales 8/31/2009 10:49:00 AM Meetings are slated for this evening in West Point and Columbus. The topic: booze.
Finding ways to draw revenue into the city has Columbus looking at extending its alcohol hours, as well as allowing liquor and wine sales on Sunday. The city already allows Sunday beer sales.
Aberdeen seeks marker to honor bluesman Bukka White 8/28/2009 11:24:00 AM Bukka White, a cousin of legendary musician B.B. King, is said to have given King his first guitar.
Now, to recognize a local bluesman, honor his family still remaining in the area and bring in more tourists, a group of Aberdeen residents and fans of White are trying to raise money to get a Mississippi Blues Trail marker placed in downtown Aberdeen.
Pickens County High welcomes new principal 8/27/2009 10:33:00 AM REFORM, Ala. — Pickens County High School began a new era with a first day celebration, a new principal and featured guests.
This year, Fred Young takes the helm as principal at Pickens County High School in Reform, Ala. Young spent 30 years in Mississippi as an educator and principal, with the Columbus Municipal School District for 13 years and then with the Lowndes County School District for 17 years.
Mayor: Resort zone meant to lure "high quality" businesses 8/25/2009 10:54:00 AM WEST POINT — The potentially muddy waters surrounding West Point’s plan to apply for resort status for its downtown district from the office of Alcoholic Beverage Control cleared considerably Monday.
Downtown West Point could see 24/7 liquor sales 8/22/2009 10:48:00 PM WEST POINT - West Point could soon corner the coveted nightlife market.
The city Board of Selectmen voted unanimously during its July meeting to apply to the Mississippi Tax Commission and the Office of Alcoholic Beverage Control for resort status for the downtown district. The initial request for application came from management for the newly renovated Ritz Theater in downtown West Point.
Columbus, Lowndes schools test worse than state average 8/22/2009 10:48:00 PM Mississippi Curriculum Testing and Subject Area Test Program results show Columbus Municipal School District and Lowndes County School District students testing behind state averages.
But test results also show some gains in the districts’ scores over last year.
Aberdeen doctor charged in wife’s shooting death 8/21/2009 11:04:00 AM ABERDEEN — An Aberdeen man was charged Thursday in the shooting death of his wife in the couple’s home on Oct. 15, 2007.
Dr. David W. Parvin Jr., of 50059 Deer Road in Aberdeen, was charged after the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation concluded a computer analysis of the crime scene, according to Monroe County Sheriff Andy Hood.
MEMA: Prepare for Claudette’s effects 8/17/2009 10:38:00 AM The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency urges residents of East Central and Northeast Mississippi to be prepared for gusty wind, heavy rains and potential for power outages because of Tropical Storm Claudette.
Bikers rolling in to Sturgis for rally 8/13/2009 10:51:00 AM STURGIS — The town of Sturgis is bracing for an influx of bikers this weekend as the 13th edition of the Sturgis South Motorcycle Rally kicks off in southwestern Oktibbeha County.
Starkville School District video garners national attention 8/13/2009 10:16:00 AM Working in the video production business, Robbie Coblentz doesn’t often get chills when he views a piece of work.
But a video his company put together for the Starkville School District over the summer recently made his hair stand on end.
Reneau chosen as new name for MUW 8/10/2009 10:30:00 AM It’s Reneau. Mississippi University for Women President Dr. Claudia Limbert announced the school’s choice for a new name this morning at a faculty/staff convocation.
And received a standing ovation from a full-house at Nissan Auditorium.
Students split over need for new name 8/8/2009 9:41:00 PM Students moving in to the Mississippi University for Women on Saturday afternoon, readying for the new school year, seemed to be split along gender lines as they shared their thoughts on a name change.
West Point man accused of growing marijuana 8/7/2009 12:06:00 PM A West Point man who authorities say was growing marijuana behind his house was arrested Tuesday on drug and weapons charges.
Laser games, heroes’ tribute hail local opening of ‘G.I. Joe’ 8/7/2009 10:41:00 AM When forces of good and evil clash on movie screens across the country as “G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra” opens Aug. 7, Columbus’ Malco Theatre and the Mississippi National Guard will be right there with them.
Caledonia schools enjoy fresh start after 2008 tornado 8/6/2009 10:45:00 AM Of the schools in the Lowndes County School District welcoming students back today, only two — Caledonia Middle School and Caledonia High School — boast the fresh sights and smells of new buildings.
Smoking ban in the works for Caledonia skate park 8/5/2009 10:53:00 AM CALEDONIA — After Leslie Webber told the Caledonia Board of Aldermen about some good news for the town Tuesday, she had a recommendation to make.
Crash on Highway 45 Alternate injures three 8/1/2009 10:36:00 PM A two-vehicle crash near Crawford Saturday afternoon sent three people to the hospital and left watermelon pieces strewn across the road.
Parents, students welcomed to school district open houses 8/1/2009 10:36:00 PM Local school districts are welcoming students and parents back to school with open houses in Lowndes, Oktibbeha and Clay county and municipal schools.
Wal-Mart buoys tax revenue in West Point 7/31/2009 11:00:00 AM WEST POINT — A handful of retail developments in the Clay County seat during the past fiscal year drove a five-digit growth in the city’s sales tax revenue.
Arrest Report 7/30/09 7/30/2009 10:33:00 AM The following people were arrested on felony charges, according to reports released from the Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office:
Oktibbeha employee unhurt in truck fire 7/29/2009 10:37:00 AM The driver involved in a Monday dump truck fire on Highway 82 west of Columbus has been identified as Oktibbeha County Road Department employee Bud Hogan.
Teacher certification, scholarship info sessions set for Thursday 7/29/2009 10:37:00 AM Free information sessions about The American Board for Certification of Teacher Excellence’s teacher certification program and Teach and Inspire scholarships will be held Thursday in Starkville.
Motorcyclist suffers broken bones in Tuesday accident 7/29/2009 10:37:00 AM A Tuesday morning wreck on rain-soaked Highway 69 South just outside Columbus’ city limits sent a motorcyclist to the hospital after his bike slammed into the back of a pickup truck.
Pontotoc woman, two Noxubee men arrested on drug charges 7/28/2009 10:09:00 AM Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics agents, along with Pontotoc deputies and police officers, over the weekend arrested a local woman wanted for attempted burglary by Illinois authorities for fraudulently obtaining prescriptions, according to MBN Director Marshall Fisher.
A cosmopolitan conclusion: foreign pilots among CAFB grads 7/25/2009 8:57:00 PM Another graduation at Columbus Air Force Base would have been nothing out of the ordinary — 15 occur per year.
But Friday morning, in Kaye Auditorium, there were five foreigners among the 24 graduates: Roberto C. Yanez Vargas of Ecuador, Miquel J. Gaspar of Portugal, Omar Malas of Jordan, Emmanuel Byaruhanga of Uganda and Omar Al-Nuaimi of Iraq.
MUW combines programs, names new dean for School of Professional Studies 7/25/2009 8:57:00 PM Dr. William “Bill” Mayfield has joined Mississippi University for Women as dean of the School of Professional Studies. This comes as a result of combining the College of Business and Legal Studies and Culinary Arts Institute.
Starkville sales tax revenues drop 7/25/2009 8:48:00 PM STARKVILLE - A look at sales tax figures released Friday by the city of Starkville shows revenues are down over the past year.
As of May, the most recent month for which figures were available, the city received $1,098,487.98 in sales tax. This compares to $1,239,757.53 reported by May 2008.
Local reps file ethics reports late 7/25/2009 8:41:00 PM It’s better to be late than to not file at all, a pair of local state representatives said of their previously delinquent ethics reports.
Little Artesia to hold fourth annual Artesia Day 7/25/2009 8:40:00 PM Next weekend, Artesia will have another chance to prove its motto, “The small town that does big things.”
The fourth annual Artesia Day festival will take place on Main Street in downtown Artesia Friday through Sunday. Admission will be free.
First annual Bowlathon to kick off next weekend 7/25/2009 8:39:00 PM Over the next two weekends, the United Way of Lowndes County will hold the first annual Bowlathon at Columbus Lanes.
From 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Aug. 1, 2, 8 and 9, each adult can pay $15, and each child can pay $7.50, in exchange for three games of bowling and shoe rental.
Arrest Report 7/22/09 7/24/2009 12:05:00 PM The following people were arrested on felony charges, according to reports released from the Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office:
Cadence reports $14.7M loss in second quarter 7/24/2009 12:04:00 PM Starkville-based Cadence Financial Corp. reported a wider-than-expected second-quarter loss, hurt mainly by higher non-interest expenses and provision for bad loans.
MSU: Purse snatching claim false 7/24/2009 10:20:00 AM A Mississippi State University student who reported to police that an assailant snatched her purse Sunday evening is now being charged with filing a false report, according to a statement released by the university.
City misses bike path deadline; returns unspent $1.2 million 7/24/2009 10:12:00 AM With plans for the proposed Lynn Lane multi-use path at a standstill, Starkville officials this week asked the state to keep more than $1.2 million in unspent federal grant money until the project is ready for construction.
Arrest Report 7/23/09 7/23/2009 10:38:00 AM Police Tuesday arrested a 29-year-old Columbus woman after they learned she may have tried to pass several bad checks at a local retailer.
Monekia Sherrod, of 206 B Browder St. in Columbus, was arrested at her residence by the Columbus Police Department and charged with one count of uttering forgery.
Rezoned pasture reveals divisions 7/23/2009 10:36:00 AM STARKVILLE — As Richard Kaminski strolled about his backyard with a glass of red wine Wednesday, he had a sunset to see and a breeze to praise.
“Isn’t it beautiful here?” asked Kaminski, who lives in the Stonegate subdivision. “That’s why we bought this place.”
Fourth case of swine flu reported in Oktibbeha County 7/23/2009 10:34:00 AM Another case of the H1N1 virus, better known as swine flu, was confirmed in Oktibbeha County last week, bringing the total to four.
The fourth case affected a male child, the director of communications for the State Department of Health, Liz Sharlot, said Wednesday.
City school approve budget, more construction bonds 7/22/2009 10:29:00 AM STARKVILLE — School board members approved the $57 million 2009-2010 budget for Starkville public schools in a meeting where they also voted to issue $8.575 million in bonds for continued construction.
The budget contains $18.26 million in state funding and will tax Starkville residents at 62.31 mills. The millage rate is just slightly less than what was taxed last year.
Starkville High’s schedule changed 7/22/2009 10:27:00 AM The modified block system at Starkville High School is being modified once again in an attempt to better serve students and teachers.
EMCC reports summer enrollment boost 7/21/2009 11:07:00 AM Summer enrollment at East Mississippi Community College is up by 33.5 percent — an increase of more than a third over last summer. Final registration numbers show a total of 2,310 students enrolled in one of two summer sessions, May 27 to June 26, and July 7 to Aug. 6.
Oktibbeha supes delay decision on road repairs 7/21/2009 10:59:00 AM STARKVILLE — Oktibbeha County District 2 Supervisor Orlando Trainer made progress Monday in his quest to pave the county’s vast network of gravel roads, but fellow board members held off on his request to pursue a bond issue for major infrastructure improvements.
Talking up Starkville business on the radio 7/16/2009 WEST POINT — When she began speaking into the microphone, she did not lean in or make herself look awkward in any way. She looked like a natural.
“Good morning,” she said. “I’m Allison Matthews with the Greater Starkville Development Partnership ...”
She glanced at her guests, the Starkville restaurateurs Ty Thames and Hall Roberts, and introduced them.
Raid yields pot, cash 7/16/2009 STARKVILLE — An eight-month investigation into marijuana trafficking led city and county officials to conduct a raid and arrest four people Friday.
Despite recession, MSU boasts strong fundraising year 7/16/2009 STARKVILLE — Mississippi State University received the third-highest number of fundraising dollars in a single year this fiscal year, despite the onset of a global economic recession.
The 2002 and 2006 fiscal years saw the highest donations.
Rezoning draws ire of residents 7/15/2009 Residents of the Academy Place and Stonegate subdivisions were fuming Tuesday after the Starkville Planning and Zoning Commission voted to approve the rezone of a parcel of land in their neighborhood.
July’s new, less taxing holiday 7/15/2009 Columbus retailers are banking on a state sales tax holiday July 31-Aug. 1 to bring a needed boost to their yearly revenues.
Storeowners across the area are optimistic the state’s first sales tax holiday will bring with it a flood of customers looking for back-to-school and work-related bargains.
Foreign pilots no strangers to area’s skies 7/15/2009 From Uganda to Peru, pilots from nearly 50 countries during the past several decades have streaked across the skies of the Golden Triangle as part of American and foreign-funded aviation training programs.
West Point braces for 'big impact' of Navistar losses 7/14/2009 WEST POINT - With Navistar's loss of a major military contract, resulting in the loss of 275 jobs at its plant here, Clay County officials and business owners are bracing for a wave of economic consequences.
Navistar terminating 275 employees; 200 to remain at plant 7/9/2009 Navistar’s recent failure to win a $1.06 billion Pentagon contract, which went to Oshkosh Corp., to build blast-resistant vehicles brings layoffs to the West Point Navistar plant.
New Caledonia board, mayor meet for first time since election 7/8/2009 CALEDONIA — Mayor George Gerhart was back at the head of the table in Caledonia Town Hall Tuesday night.
It was his first meeting with the new Board of Aldermen since the mayoral and aldermen’s election, which took place in the same building June 2.
July Fourth stabbing still under investigation 7/8/2009 COLUMBUS — Marvin Lee Richards, 29, is suspected to have stabbed Michael Swanigan, 41, on the night of the Fourth of July, police said.
Both the victim and the suspect were still in Baptist Memorial Hospital–Golden Triangle Tuesday; the victim was in critical care, and the suspect was getting surgery on his foot, said Columbus Police Department Capt. Fred Shelton.
Navistar misses out on new contract 7/7/2009 The Pentagon granted a $1.06 billion contract to build blast-resistant vehicles last week to Oshkosh Corp., not Navistar, which has a plant in West Point.
‘Critical’ time for state’s crops 7/6/2009 JACKSON — Mississippi farmers who saw vital planting time washed away by persistent spring showers are now in desperate need of rain as heat and abnormally dry conditions threaten to reduce grain crop yields significantly.
MSU professor a self-described overthinker 7/6/2009 Catherine Pierce is one of those people who overthinks for a living.
Growing up in Wilmington, Del., she listened as her parents read books to her all the time. She began to write poetry. Her parents encouraged her to continue to write poems even when they were “goofy” at some points or “angst-ridden” at others, she said.
Now, at 31, she has published two books of poetry, “Animals of Habit” (2004) and “Famous Last Words” (2008), and she teaches poetry at Mississippi State University.
Starkville celebrates Fourth 7/5/2009 STARKVILLE — There was a smell of hot dogs wafting about the Sportsplex Saturday, and Glen Jackson was proud to be producing it.
A member of Calvary Baptist Church in Starkville, Jackson, 45, said he was eager to volunteer his time to grill hot dogs for distribution to the public to celebrate Independence Day. He was also looking forward to seeing the new fireworks he’d heard about, which were to be choreographed to patriotic music.
Mayor Camp vetoes Lynn Lane path 7/5/2009 STARKVILLE — Outgoing Starkville Mayor Dan Camp on Thursday issued a veto of the revised Lynn Lane multi-use path project.
No more ink: Oktibbeha to get scan fingerprint technology 7/5/2009 STARKVILLE — The Oktibbeha County Sheriff’s Department soon will begin using some new, state-of-the-art fingerprinting technology in an effort to improve its outdated system.
Columbus gas distributor: ‘I’m barely surviving’ 7/2/2009 Mississippi’s gas prices are among the lowest in the nation, but Columbus’ gas prices consistently remain among the highest in the state and local oil company executives seem reluctant to explain why.
New steel plant headed for Lowndes 7/1/2009 About 65 jobs and a $25 million investment soon could be on its way to the Golden Triangle Industrial Park, members of the Lowndes County Board of Supervisors announced during a Tuesday meeting.
Texas-based New Process Steel, which has plants in Birmingham, Ala., Dallas and Mexico, this week signed a memorandum of understanding with Lowndes County outlining plans to locate a 100,000-square-foot flat rolled steel manufacturing plant next to the Severstal steel mill off Airport Road in western Lowndes County.
Authorities search for clues in death of Pickensville man 7/1/2009 PICKENSVILLE, Ala. — Pickens County, Ala., authorities are attempting to learn the cause of death of a 97-year-old Pickensville resident found dead near his home.
Monroe man charged with double shooting 6/30/2009 ABERDEEN — A 23-year-old Monroe County man Monday was arrested and charged with a June 26 double shooting on Old Columbus Road in Aberdeen.
Alabama man takes deal, pleads to manslaughter 6/30/2009 CARROLLTON, Ala. — An Alabama man June 9 was sentenced to 25 years in prison after pleading guilty to manslaughter charges in the Pickens County, Ala., Circuit Court.
Barbour calls special session with no budget deal 6/27/2009 JACKSON — Gov. Haley Barbour has summoned Mississippi lawmakers back to the Capitol for a special budget session starting at 2 p.m. Sunday, just three days before the state’s new fiscal year begins.
MUW: Name change 'nearing completion;' Welty officially out 6/24/2009
The new name of the Mississippi University for Women will be either Reneau University or Waverley University, the school announced today in a statement that the name-change process “is nearing an end.”
The university also released a statement from the family of Eudora Welty, announcing the Southern writer’s name wouldn’t be considered after the family “declined to agree to the use of her name by MUW.”
The release didn’t state when MUW President Claudia Limbert would announce her final choice, which must then be approved by the state College Board and the Legislature.
West Point man arrested in more than five-year-old murder case 6/23/2009 WEST POINT — After more than five years, a Clay County murder once thought to be a cold case may have been solved, according to a report released Monday by the Clay County Sheriff’s Department.
Local Red Cross, EMA help prep for disasters 6/19/2009 With hurricane season upon us, Mississippi�s American Red Cross chapters, in conjunction with Mississippi Emergency Management Agency, local emergency management and response officials and local businesses Saturday will participate in Disaster Preparedness Day. In Columbus, events will take place under a tent in front of Wal-Mart, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
No limits for Freeman scholarship winner 6/19/2009 CALEDONIA — As Maggie Wester read her essay aloud for Glen and Pat Freeman in their living room, they sat transfixed.
“For decades,” said Maggie, 18, “our country has been watched over and protected by the most chivalrous and admirable soldiers. These soldiers, both men and women, serve our country with a noble and selfless attitude.”
Monroe Co. boy drowns in Tombigbee Tuesday 6/10/2009 A 15-year-old Monroe County boy had gone for a swim under a bridge in the Tombigbee River in Monroe County on Tuesday afternoon, but the summertime outing turned tragic, according to Monroe County authorities.
Starkville fifth-grader just getting started 6/8/2009 Nathan Smith loves to play fantasy video games and chase his chickens, but he wants to be a microbiologist, like his mom.
Aiming high, Nathan, who just finished fifth-grade at Ward-Stewart Elementary, even forayed into the national spotlight this year winning a contest, for a poster he drew with markers and pencils. It’s not the first time he’s won something — he’s won awards at science fairs — but it is the first time the media is paying any attention to him, and he thinks that’s pretty cool.
Good news for Starkville: The Dispatch brings new, free newspaper to Bulldog Country 6/8/2009 Hello, Starkville.
The Starkville Dispatch begins publication today, offering a free news source to readers in Bulldog Country.
The new paper is a publication of The Commercial Dispatch in Columbus, and replaces The Commercial Dispatch in racks around town. The new paper will also be available in many more locations than the old Dispatch, and will be in the racks sooner.
New city leaders ready for future 6/8/2009 STARKVILLE — The city of Starkville is poised to welcome a new mayor and five new members of the Board of Aldermen next month, but the incoming leaders aren’t worried about a lack of experience in City Hall.
Profile: 'It’s definitely not monotonous’ 6/8/2009 STARKVILLE — Ty Thames goes through 1,000 spoons a week.
As the co-owner of Restaurant Tyler in downtown Starkville, plus other restaurants in town including Bin 612, Rock Bottom Bar and Grill, and Barrister’s, Thames nearly always has a plastic spoon in his hand as he makes his rounds through the kitchen. He strolls from sauce to sauce, dish to dish, and constantly checks tastes and temperatures.
Starkville alderman continues to vote ‘nay’ 6/6/2009 STARKVILLE — Roy A. Perkins has been on the Starkville Board of Aldermen for 16 years.
In that time, the Ward 6 representative often has voted against his fellow board members, as countless 6-1 votes can be found in city records.
Monroe County man arrested after mobile meth lab discovered 6/6/2009 NETTLETON — A Monroe County man Wednesday was arrested on methamphetamine charges after a Nettleton police officer discovered a mobile meth lab in the man’s work truck.
Starkville recount yields no change in Ward 2 election results 6/5/2009 STARKVILLE — Election officials in Starkville Thursday held a recount of the general election results from Ward 2, but when all was said and done, the vote totals remained the same.
Aldermen work out details of increasing utility deposits 6/3/2009 STARKVILLE — Newcomers to Starkville could soon have to pay a bit more when setting up electric and other utilities in their homes.
The Starkville Electric Department and the city’s Board of Aldermen are working on a proposal which would increase the deposit new customers must pay when setting up their accounts.
Complaints by neighbors lead to arrests in drug raid 6/3/2009 STARKVILLE — The investigation into possible drug activity in the Blackjack community outside of Starkville began six months ago, when neighbors complained to police about a high volume of traffic coming in and out of homes on Loco and Theodis roads.
Scott Ross solidifies another term as mayor of West Point 6/3/2009 WEST POINT — West Point’s incumbent mayor, Democrat Scott Ross, Tuesday defeated independent candidate Harold Lathon.
Not including absentee and affidavit ballots, Ross received 1,673 votes, and Lathon received 626 votes.
Reasons vary for casting ballots 6/3/2009 STARKVILLE — All around the city, as supporters of candidates for aldermen and mayor stood near polling places, they held placards and waved.
Report: Oktibbeha studio schools a success 6/2/2009 STARKVILLE — School officials Monday heard an update on the success of one semester of studio school at both Oktibbeha County high schools in a meeting where they also began the process of putting the district’s policies online.
MUW graduate starts job as state Supreme Court clerk 6/2/2009 JACKSON — Mississippi University for Women graduate Kathy Gillis began working Monday as the clerk of the state Supreme Court and Court of Appeals.
Oktibbeha landowners push for sewer line 6/2/2009 STARKVILLE — A group of landowners in eastern Oktibbeha County is banding together in an effort to bring sewer service to their community.
Highlands, Cowbells Booze dispute continues 6/2/2009 STARKVILLE — With the future of the Highlands Plantation resort community still up in the air, Oktibbeha County Sheriff Dolph Bryan and developers of the $60 million development came a bit closer to an agreement Monday.
Despite historic election, starkville officials Skeptical about turnout 6/1/2009 The general election in Starkville Tuesday is being hailed as one of the most important in the history of the city, but with primary and runoff elections already under voters’ belts, officials wonder how many people will show up at the polls?
Starkville City Hall in for a change 5/31/2009 STARKVILLE — Voters in Starkville Tuesday will have the opportunity to reshape the face of city politics, though candidates with experience in City Hall are few and far between.
Oktibbeha water association doubles in size 5/29/2009 STARKVILLE — The city of Starkville is continuing to grow, and now a water association in Oktibbeha County is expanding to meet the demand.
Starkville company wins governor’s award 5/28/2009 STARKVILLE — A Starkville company was one of six in the state to receive the Governor’s Cup award this week, which recognizes businesses in the private sector for their impacts within the community.
Poorhouse Road project delayed in Oktibbeha 5/28/2009 STARKVILLE — More than a half dozen contractors showed up at the Oktibbeha County Board of Supervisors meeting Wednesday to find out who would win the bid for the Poorhouse Road construction project, but the group left without any answers.
Thomasson recognized as Noxubee’s Industry of the Year 5/27/2009 The Noxubee Alliance recently held its annual Salute to Industry awards luncheon to celebrate Noxubee County’s business community, honoring the Thomasson Co./East Mississippi Pole as the Industry of the Year.
‘It’s knowing I made a difference’ 5/26/2009 STARKVILLE — Holly Travis already has made more of a difference in the lives of Starkville residents than most of her peers.
And she’s only just beginning.
MSU students prepare for La. excavation 5/23/2009 STARKVILLE — Archaeologists and students from Mississippi State University and the University of Louisiana at Monroe are joining for a summer dig next month at the nationally famous Poverty Point State Historic Site.
Weekend lane closure planned for Highway 82 5/22/2009 JACKSON — The Mississippi Department of Transportation would like to notify motorists of anticipated lane closures over the coming Memorial Day weekend for District One in northeast Mississippi. The eastbound lane of U.S. Highway 82 between U.S. Highway 45 Alternate and U.S. Highway 45 in Lowndes County will be closed during the holiday weekend.
Communitywide blood drive Tuesday 5/22/2009 United Blood Services, United Way of Lowndes County, WCBI, Columbus Main Street, the city of Columbus and WLZA 96.1 Tuesday are hosting a communitywide blood drive.
Experience Works offers new pursuits to older Americans 5/22/2009 STARKVILLE — Norbin McCollum Jr. was an employee of Southwire Co. in Starkville for more than 18 years.
But in 2006, at the age of 62, McCollum says he lost his job and had no other means of income.
Model school: West Lowndes ‘builds on success’ 5/21/2009 West Lowndes Elementary School at a Wednesday assembly celebrated being named a Renaissance Reading Model School.
Renaissance Learning Inc. of Madison, Wis.., the company responsible for the Accelerated Reader program, May 7 announced WLES received national recognition for achieving the status of Reading Model School.
Starkville passes sidewalk ordinance 5/20/2009 STARKVILLE — Starkville became a bit more pedestrian-friendly Tuesday night after the Board of Aldermen passed an ordinance to set standards for the construction of all new sidewalks throughout the city.
Wiseman wins runoff for Starkville mayor 5/20/2009 STARKVILLE — The race for mayor in the city of Starkville became a bit clearer Tuesday night as Parker Wiseman narrowly won the Democratic runoff against Matt Cox and secured his spot in the general election two weeks from now.
Runoff brings big changes to West Point board 5/20/2009 WEST POINT — A nearly 20-year board veteran will no longer be a member of the West Point Board of Selectmen after Tuesday’s primary runoff. The entire governing body soon will look very different; for the first time in decades, no one on the board will have served more than one term.
Starkville Sportsplex now a reality 5/19/2009 STARKVILLE — For Fred Tate, Mondays are fun days.
Tate, 38, lives in Starkville, but works as a barber in Ackerman, more than 20 miles to the west.
Election Results: Primary Runoff May 19 5/19/2009 Check here for the latest real-time results from the City of Starkville and City of West Point Democrat Primary Runoff elections.
West Point voters decide several selectmen’s seats 5/16/2009 West Point citizens living in Wards 1, 3 and 4 will head back to the polls Tuesday to determine who will be occupying the selectmen’s seats in those areas for the next four years.
Mayor, aldermen seats at stake in Starkville 5/16/2009 STARKVILLE — The upcoming runoff elections in the city of Starkville will feature two candidates in the race for mayor and two more facing off for a seat on the Board of Aldermen.
How will Chrysler closures affect me? 5/15/2009 So your local Chrysler dealer is slated to close, and a nearby General Motors dealer could get the ax too. What happens if you need service on your car?
It’s a natural question in the changing automotive landscape, as those two U.S. automakers attempt to restructure in and out of bankruptcy court.
Leigh to head Aberdeen School District 5/14/2009 ABERDEEN — The Aberdeen School District has selected Chester Leigh to be its new superintendent. Currently the principal of Aberdeen Middle School, Leigh will replace Superintendent George Gilreath, who resigned his position, effective June 30, after little more than a year at the helm of the school system.
Starkville hotel tax snafu clarified 5/14/2009 STARKVILLE — A clerical error is to blame for the sudden drop-off in hotel tax revenues in the city of Starkville, tourism officials said this week.
Drug unit investigates Starkville detective 5/14/2009 STARKVILLE — A Starkville Police Department detective is on administrative leave this week while he is being investigated by the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics and his own department for possible misconduct.
Area high schools to hold graduations 5/13/2009 Area high schools will be holding commencement ceremonies in coming weeks. Their schedules, by county, follow.
West Point resident to appear next week on Outdoor Channel 5/12/2009 Tack Robinson, of West Point, will appear on “Turkey Call,” a hunting series produced by the National Wild Turkey Federation. The show will air on the Outdoor Channel on the following dates:
Oktibbeha sheriff says he’s open to talks on Highlands Plantation’s resort status 5/11/2009 STARKVILLE — Oktibbeha County Sheriff Dolph Bryan says he is willing to talk with representatives from the Highlands Plantation resort community about a new proposal to limit excessive drinking among residents, but he wants to hear more about the plan before he makes a decision.
MSU grad’s on a mission 5/11/2009 STARKVILLE — The city of Chiang Mai is a sprawling metropolitan area in the northern mountains of Thailand.
The climate is hot and humid, the food is spicy and fresh, and for much of the past year, a former Mississippi State University student has called the region home.
Starkville election officials prep for runoffs 5/11/2009 STARKVILLE — With the Starkville runoff and general elections set to take place over the next few weeks, officials at City Hall are doing everything they can to make sure the process runs smoothly.
Maben man gets two life terms for murders 5/8/2009 STARKVILLE — A Maben man will spend the rest of his life behind bars after he pleaded guilty Wednesday in Oktibbeha County Circuit Court to the murder of his wife and another woman last summer west of Starkville.
Quad director named Armstrong principal 5/7/2009 STARKVILLE — Joseph Stone moved from Quad County Alternative School director to principal of Armstrong Middle School when the Starkville school board unanimously voted him in Tuesday night.
Starkville schools look at grim budget 5/7/2009 STARKVILLE — Starkville school board members heard vague but poor news Tuesday night about the upcoming school year’s budget.
Starkville alderman races set up changing of the guard 5/6/2009 STARKVILLE — While the city of Starkville braces for a new mayor this summer, residents also can expect to see some new faces on the seven-member Board of Aldermen.
Ross handed landslide in West Point 5/6/2009 WEST POINT — In a landslide victory, West Point Mayor Scott Ross claimed the Democratic nomination for West Point’s mayoral seat. And at least one incumbent will not be returning to the West Point Board of Selectmen’s table for the next four years.
New plan aims to curb drinking outside homes, spare sports bar 5/5/2009 STARKVILLE — The fate of the Highlands Plantation resort community outside of Starkville hasn’t been decided just yet.
Although the Oktibbeha County Board of Supervisors voted last month to ask the State Tax Commission to revoke the community’s resort status, the board on Monday decided to continue the resolution until it investigates the situation further.
Independent vo-tech classes for Oktibbeha not feasible this year 5/5/2009 STARKVILLE — Oktibbeha County schools will continue to send students to the Millsaps Career and Technology Center, but they asked officials to gather data on what it would take to run their own program.
Ward 4 primary features two MSU students 5/4/2009 STARKVILLE — In the race for the Ward 4 alderman seat, incumbent Richard Corey is running for re-election on the Democratic ticket and will face Republican challengers Nick Papas or John Michael VanHorn in the general election on June 2.
Self and Vaughn to face off in Ward 7 race 5/4/2009 STARKVILLE — The battle for Starkville’s Ward 7 alderman seat will pit incumbent Janette Self against challenger Henry Vaughn Tuesday in the Democratic primary.
With no Republicans entered in the race, the winner of the Democratic primary will secure the Ward 7 seat.
Starkville Ward 1 Democratic primary to feature Bagwell, Duncan and Weaver-Reese 5/4/2009 STARKVILLE — With Starkville’s Ward 1 Alderman Sumner Davis opting not to run for re-election, five candidates have come forward to fill his seat.
Democrats Corey Bagwell, Mark Duncan and Juliette Weaver-Reese will square off Tuesday in the primary election. The winner of the Democratic primary will face Republican Ben Carver and Independent Helen Eaves in the general election on June 2.
MSU police: Suspected baby powder shut down auditorium 5/3/2009 STARKVILLE — The suspicious white powder found April 23 in a Mississippi State University auditorium turned out to be nothing more than a mistake, police said Friday.
Student collapses, dies in MSU dorm 5/1/2009 STARKVILLE — Matthew Gatewood, 18, a Mississippi State University freshmen civil engineering major from Clinton, collapsed suddenly Thursday night in his campus residence hall and was rushed to Oktibbeha County Hospital, where shortly thereafter he was pronounced dead.
Suspect arrested in MSU robbery 5/1/2009 STARKVILLE — Mississippi State University police officers arrested Danny Solomon following an early-morning incident today near McKee Hall, a university residence facility on East Lee Boulevard.
MUW fires new police chief 5/1/2009 Mississippi University for Women police chief, who also serves as Meridian Ward 5 councilman, has been terminated after less than two weeks on the job
Murder suspect arrested; dog-fighting training grounds uncovered 4/30/2009 The Monroe County Sheriff’s Department along with help from the U.S. Marshals Service Fugitive Task Force and the West Point Police Department have arrested a suspected murderer who has been on the run since 2005. During the operation the agencies also stumbled upon a suspected dog-fighting ring.
Area Arrests 4-27-09 4/27/2009 The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office released the following felony arrests reports:
West Point gets grant for sewer main 4/26/2009 The city of West Point will be getting a $250,000 grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission to fix a collapsed sewer main.
The announcement was made Friday afternoon from the office of Democratic Congressman Travis Childers.
Suspected prank forces closure of MSU auditorium 4/24/2009 STARKVILLE — A Thursday afternoon French class at Mississippi State University turned into quite the adventure for a professor and a few of his students after the group was exposed to some suspicious white powder in a campus auditorium.
Board denies rezoning for proposed subdivision 4/23/2009 STARKVILLE — The Starkville Board of Aldermen Tuesday voted 4-3 to deny a developer’s request to rezone 4.98 acres at the southwest corner of Yellow Jacket Drive and Eckford Drive from an R-1 single-family residential district to an R-3A single-family medium density district.
Starkville woman gets 15 years for 2008 shooting 4/23/2009 STARKVILLE — A Starkville woman was sentenced Tuesday to 15 years in the Mississippi Department of Corrections system for the shooting death of another woman last March in the Pecan Acres neighborhood.
Suspicious powder found at MSU 4/23/2009 The Mississippi State University Police Department is investigating some suspicious white powder a professor found this afternoon in an auditorium on campus.
New technology hurts Oktibbeha 911 budget 4/22/2009 STARKVILLE — With more people relying on cell phones and other means of communication instead of traditional land lines, the Oktibbeha County E-911 dispatch center has found itself in a financial bind.
Starkville police nab MSU robbery suspects 4/22/2009 STARKVILLE — Two juveniles and a 20-year-old have been arrested for robbing a Mississippi State University student Monday night on Sorority Row.
Belk, Ala., hosts bluegrass fest this weekend 4/22/2009 Sometimes the best things come in small packages. Take the third annual Bluegrass Festival in the rural community of Belk, Ala., about a half-hour’s drive from Columbus.
Community members to help interview Starkville principal hopefuls 4/21/2009 STARKVILLE — The process is under way to hire new principals for Starkville’s junior high and high school, and certain community members will soon have their chance to have a say in the process at an interview session April 27.
Huckabee to speak this week at MSU 4/18/2009 Former Arkansas governor and U.S. presidential hopeful Mike Huckabee will be among the featured speakers for Mississippi State University’s 22nd annual Mississippi Insurance Day.
MSU to celebrate Earth Day by signing commitment 4/18/2009 As part of Mississippi State University’s continued effort to go “green,” President Mark Keenum on Wednesday will sign the American College and University Presidents Climate Commitment.
Church choirs to raise money for non-profit 4/17/2009 STARKVILLE — There’s something for everyone this weekend in Starkville with sports, arts, food and music, and those who want to give back to the community have a chance to combine some of these activities into one event.
Area Arrests 4-17-09 4/17/2009 Two people accused of stealing a man’s credit card information while he was eating at a local restaurant are behind bars.
March 31 at 11:02 a.m. Douglas Washington reported to police he lost his credit card at Ryan’s Restaurant, located just off Highway 45 North in Columbus, according to reports from the Columbus Police Department.
EMCC salutes industry at annual luncheon 4/16/2009 East Mississippi Community College representatives were joined by politicians, educators and community leaders at the college’s Golden Triangle campus Wednesday afternoon to send out thanks to local industry.
Starkville joins the ‘party’ 4/16/2009 More than 100 people rallied in front of the Oktibbeha County Courthouse in Starkville to protest the federal government’s economic policies.
Plant Adds 26 jobs, $3 million to Macon 4/16/2009 MACON — Noxubee County this week received an “economic boost” from the opening of a large wood products company, according to Brian Wilson, executive director of the Noxubee Economic and Community Development Alliance.
MSU gets grant for C&G Railway study 4/15/2009 STARKVILLE — Representatives from the Appalachian Regional Commission were in Starkville Tuesday and presented Mississippi State University officials with a $100,000 check to study the Columbus and Greenville Railway line, which has been out of service between West Point and Greenwood since 2001.
Mayoral candidates spilt on Sunday alcohol sales 4/15/2009 STARKVILLE — Residents of Starkville got a glimpse of their future leader Tuesday night as all four candidates in the race for mayor gathered for a public forum at the Hilton Garden Inn.
Starkville mayoral forum set for tonight 4/14/2009 STARKVILLE — The Starkville Young Professionals will hold their third and final public forum tonight for candidates in the upcoming Starkville municipal election.
Refund? What refund? 4/13/2009 Most people say they plan to use this year’s tax refund to pay bills, deciding in this sour economy to be more frugal with their annual windfall.
Flood of applicants for empty Starkville school admin seats 4/10/2009 STARKVILLE — The process is under way to find new principals for the middle and high schools in Starkville as both top positions are open for the coming school year. Superintendent Judy Couey said there have been “quite a lot of applicants” for the positions. She said many apply for both, and applicants bring a wide range of experience.
Shortened bike path plan called a ‘reasonable compromise’ 4/10/2009 STARKVILLE — Although the Lynn Lane multi-use path won’t be quite as long as initially planned, members of Starkville in Motion are excited to see the project move forward.
Starkville hotel tax revenues drop 4/9/2009 STARKVILLE — Hotel tax revenues in the city of Starkville are down substantially over the past year and some local businessmen want to know why.
Starkville to explore school uniforms 4/9/2009 STARKVILLE — Starkville school officials are considering requiring uniforms for students, but they want to get some clear input from parents before they take action.
Alternative school faces $385K shortfall 4/9/2009 STARKVILLE — Quad County Alternative School in Starkville is facing a $385,000 budget shortfall, as Lowndes County School District has withdrawn from the program.
TV principal Mr. Belding headed to college 4/7/2009 STARKVILLE — One of television’s most recognizable high school principals, Dennis Haskins, probably best known as Mr. Richard Belding from “Saved by the Bell,” will visit Mississippi State University Wednesday at 7:30 p.m., for a free, public presentation. Sponsored by the MSU Campus Activities Board, the event will be held in Lee Hall Auditorium.
Starkville Aldermen prepare to take on sidewalks regs 4/3/2009 STARKVILLE — A new ordinance intended to regulate the construction of sidewalks in Starkville is in the final stages and the city’s Board of Aldermen will soon take up the measure.
Ward 4 Alderman Richard Corey on Tuesday will request two public hearings to discuss the ordinance, which would require sidewalks along all new public and private roads built within the city. It also would require sidewalks in front of all new homes and businesses before the city issues certificates of occupancy.
Starkville owl’s parents return 4/3/2009 STARKVILLE — The effort to save a baby barn owl whose home was destroyed by high winds last weekend appears to be a success.
Charlie, the owl that went to church 4/2/2009 STARKVILLE — Charlie is a 5-week-old barn owl who lives in a tree along Greensboro Street, not far from downtown Starkville.
Starkville aldermen candidates speak of city’s growth potential 4/1/2009 STARKVILLE — A half dozen candidates campaigning for seats on the Starkville Board of Aldermen came together for a forum Tuesday to discuss their plans for the city, with much of the talk centering on the need for smart growth and citywide infrastructure improvements.
EMCC to host Northeast Mississippi job fair Thursday 4/1/2009 MAYHEW — Signs of the economic crisis are everywhere. Earlier this month, 800 people in Ohio applied for one job opening with a local school district. Cable news shows are running non-stop features about displaced workers as the national unemployment rate exceeds 8 percent. A widely released television commercial meant to reassure investors features budget tips — including one from a frequent business traveler who saves tiny bottles of hotel shampoo and comments, “I haven’t bought that stuff in years.”
Mr. Poe goes to Washington 3/28/2009 STARKVILLE – Bill Poe was diagnosed with diabetes when he was just 13 years old.
Suspect in MSU kidnap attempt still at large 3/27/2009 STARKVILLE — A suspect in the attempted kidnapping of a Mississippi State University student was still at large Friday, two days after the incident at a Starkville apartment building.
Starkville sidewalk group on move 3/27/2009 STARKVILLE — The quest to improve Starkville’s cracked and crumbling sidewalks is well under way for the city’s sidewalk committee, but the group for now is content to tackle the task one step at a time.
MSU student jumps from moving car to escape kidnapper 3/26/2009 STARKVILLE – A Mississippi State University student was kidnapped Wednesday night from outside her apartment building, but escaped her assailant by jumping from a moving car.
‘Miracle Woman’ tells story 3/26/2009 She calls herself the Miracle Woman.
The Starkville native and mother of five has been through adversity. But faith, determination and her unbridled self-confidence have transformed Gwendolyn Outlaw Sharp into an inspiration to an entire community. And if she has her way, she will become an inspiration to the entire world.
Starkville residents applaud CottonMill Marketplace 3/25/2009 STARKVILLE — Developers of the CottonMill Marketplace project were curious about the reception they would receive Tuesday at a town hall meeting to discuss the development.
State’s economy ‘likely to get worse before it gets better’ 3/24/2009 STARKVILLE — Sales tax receipts are up statewide compared to this time last year, State Treasurer Tate Reeves said Monday, and the city of Starkville is no exception.
Murray brings boost to arts school 3/24/2009 BROOKHAVEN — Officials at the Mississippi School of the Arts say the recent appearance by junior Jasmine Murray on “American Idol” has raised interest in the school.
Shinn’s Little Store an oasis for outdoorsmen 3/23/2009 STARKVILLE — On most days, W.T. “Bud” Shinn sits outside his store in the Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge and watches the world go by.
WRECK CLAIMS LIVES OF MSU STUDENTS 3/23/2009 Two Mississippi State University students, including a Heritage Academy graduate from Columbus, are dead after a car accident near Carthage in Leake County.
Police: WALMART E-MAIL is a hoax 3/20/2009 The Columbus Police Department have issued a statement claiming an e-mail message circulating throughout the city is a hoax.
Starkville sidewalk ordinance in the works 3/20/2009 STARKVILLE — While Starkville residents will see massive repairs to city streets and drainage systems this year, the city’s newly formed sidewalk committee is working hard to improve things for pedestrians.
Starkville aldermen approve curbside recycling plan 3/18/2009 STARKVILLE — A citywide curbside recycling program is finally on its way in Starkville.
After months of discussion, the Starkville Board of Aldermen on Tuesday approved a plan to collect curbside recycling from more than 6,000 homes throughout the city.
Booze dispute simmers in Oktibbeha County 3/17/2009 STARKVILLE — Oktibbeha County Sheriff Dolph Bryan is standing firm in his stance against Highlands Plantation's resort status as the county Board of Supervisors debates what to do about the controversial community.
Starkville police: Child predator story ‘a lie’ 3/17/2009 STARKVILLE — A Starkville woman who told police a man approached her last week and threatened her children admitted Monday the story was a hoax.
Wagon driver back in the saddle after cross-country trek landed him in hospital 3/17/2009 A New Hampshire man injured Feb. 10 when an 18-wheeler struck his horse-drawn recreational vehicle on Highway 45 South near Shuqualak is out of a Meridian hospital and is making plans to continue his journey across America, according to the man’s online blog.
Mother, two children drown after wreck 3/16/2009 STARKVILLE — An Oktibbeha County woman and her two children drowned over the weekend when their vehicle veered off a gravel road and overturned in a flooded culvert.
‘A good man passed:’ Hundreds pay respects to blues legend Willie King 3/16/2009 The blues dripped from the harmonica, echoing from wall to wall, filling the auditorium of Aliceville’s city hall. Many people bowed their heads and almost no one spoke as that tinny wind blew with the force of the man it existed to honor.
Starkville aldermen to consider curbside recycling program 3/14/2009 STARKVILLE — The effort to create a greener Starkville is picking up steam as the city’s Board of Aldermen Tuesday will consider a proposal to implement a voluntary citywide curbside recycling program.
C&G Railway vital to towns along the tracks 3/14/2009 EUPORA — As Cynthia Wilson walks along a stretch of Columbus and Greenville Railway line, she points ahead to a section of track not far from the main drag in downtown Eupora.
Schools put on lockdown after unsettling incident 3/13/2009 STARKVILLE — The Starkville Police Department is investigating a suspicious incident at Ward Stewart Elementary School involving an unidentified black male. Several children were playing a game of hide and seek in a grassy area located behind the school at around 12:30 Thursday afternoon when a man appeared inside the fence in the area where they were playing. The children immediately alerted their teacher of the incident, and a police officer arrived at the school within minutes.
Starkville’s future policy makers talk issues, project proposals 3/12/2009 STARKVILLE — Some of the newest faces on the Starkville political scene gathered for a public forum Tuesday night and gave city residents a brief glimpse into their plans for the future.
Concerned mom helps police nab burglars 3/11/2009 STARKVILLE — The Starkville Police Department arrested three suspects Monday in connection with a handful of burglaries over the past month and now give credit for the busts to an unlikely source — one of the suspect’s parents.
Aberdeen school superintendent resigns 3/10/2009 ABERDEEN — Aberdeen School District Superintendent George Gilreath has resigned his position, effective June 30, after little more than a year at the helm of the school system.
Starkville police battle DUI problem 2/28/2009 STARKVILLE – The number of DUI arrests in Starkville has increased steadily in recent years, but city police are working hard to combat the problem.
Board accepts resignation of high school principal 2/26/2009 STARKVILLE — It only took a few minutes to handle some big business at Tuesday night’s meeting of the Starkville School District Board of Education.
Organizers gearing up for Starkville Community Market 2/24/2009 STARKVILLE — With the second season of the Starkville Community Market set to kick off in May, organizers are planning an event in downtown Starkville this weekend to help raise funds.
Man hurt in horse-drawn wagon wreck improving 2/24/2009 MERIDIAN — A New Hampshire man injured Feb. 10 when his horse-drawn recreational vehicle was struck by an 18-wheeler on Highway 45 South is expected to be released from the hospital within the next few days, according to hospital authorities.
Mag Film Fest announces ’09 winners 2/23/2009 Audiences filled the seats at the State Theatre this weekend for the 2009 Magnolia Film Festival, the 12th season for the independent film competition.
Man shot in murder-suicide released from hospital 2/23/2009 A 22-year-old Macon resident Friday was released from the hospital after he was treated for a trio of gunshot wounds he sustained in a shooting at his father’s house on Walnut Street in Macon.
Hamming it up: Cub Scout’s radio interest leads to company, success 2/23/2009 STARKVILLE — Martin Jue can trace the entire course of his life back to one day.
He was an 8-year-old Cub Scout, living in the Mississippi Delta town of Hollandale, and took part in a group activity where he learned how to build a radio. Little did Jue know this one activity would change his life.
Boil-water alert issued for Hamilton Water District 2/21/2009 HAMILTON — The Mississippi State Department of Health has issued a oil-Water Alert for customers who receive their drinking water from the Hamilton Water District water supply in Monroe County.
Vernon, Ala., man commits suicide after shooting wife 2/19/2009 VERNON, Ala. — A 62-year-old Vernon, Ala., resident and his wife were pronounced dead Wednesday, after what Lamar County, Ala., Coroner Marchall Guyton has declared a murder-suicide.
Johnny Waldon Wednesday afternoon was pronounced dead of a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head.
Starkville High School principal resigns 2/18/2009 STARKVILLE — Starkville High School Principal Kathi Wilson submitted her resignation this morning to school district Superintendent Judy Couey.
Residents: Take care, slow down on Hwy. 45 2/18/2009 In the wake of an accident on Highway 45 last week that injured the driver of a horse-drawn wagon and killed two horses, nearby residents have one request of truckers and others using the four-lane roadway.
Slow down.
Macon shooting ruled murder- suicide 2/17/2009 MACON — Noxubee County authorities have ruled a Feb. 13 shooting on Walnut Street a murder-suicide, and believe it may have been a result of a domestic dispute between a husband and wife.
Supes asked to seek funding for return of the railway line 2/17/2009 STARKVILLE — An engineering study is under way on the Columbus and Greenville Railway line as plans to reconstruct the roughly 200-year-old tracks continue to move forward.
Starkville administrators report to board 2/14/2009 STARKVILLE — Words like “alignment,” “rigor and relevance” and “intervention” were discussed at Tuesday night’s board meeting of the Starkville School District.
Macon couple shot, killed in their home 2/14/2009 MACON — A local man and his wife were pronounced dead Friday afternoon after an apparent murder-suicide at their home on Walnut Street.
Brooksville man pleads guilty to ’08 triple shooting 2/14/2009 A Brooksville man charged with shooting three people, stealing a police car and fleeing law enforcement officials last year pleaded guilty Friday afternoon to two counts of aggravated assault, four counts of aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer and one count of felony taking of a motor vehicle.
Gordo man arrested for ex-wife’s murder 2/2/2009 PICKENS COUNTY, Ala. — David Todd Stephens, 32, of Gordo, Ala., was arrested in Pickens County by the Alabama Bureau of Investigation and charged with capital murder in the death of his former wife, Tonya Luann Stephens, 30, of Moundville.
Clay wants stimulus funds filtered through Office of State Aid, not MDOT 1/30/2009 The Clay County Board of Supervisors is anticipating the passage of a federal stimulus package. And, like counties and municipalities across the state and country, board members are doing their best to make sure they get their fair share of the money when and if it comes.
State seeks death penalty for Maben murders 1/30/2009 A Maben man accused of brutally killing his wife and another woman last summer now faces a possible death sentence in Oktibbeha County Circuit Court.
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