Articles by Allen Baswell
Residents should ready for single-digit temps, possibility of sleet, snow
Amid the arctic blast of winter weather that has put a vise-like grip on this area, people should make preparations in order to take care of plants, vegetation, water pipes and themselves.
Fire checks differ for apartments
While area cities conduct routine fire-safety inspections of commercial buildings, large residential buildings, such as apartment complexes, have less direct oversight, Starkville and Columbus officials said.
Tickets still available for downtown New Year’s bash
Wristbands and passports are still available for those wishing to buy them before the New Year’s Eve block party, said Main Street Columbus director Amber Murphree Brislin.
CVB gets $108,000 to restore Tennessee Williams home
When Pilgrimage 2010 wraps up in April, Columbus’ welcome center will have to find a temporary home for a few months.
Tourism on a roll: New double-decker bus will have visitors to historic homes, other events riding in style
When tourists come to Columbus to see the many unique and historical sites the city offers, they can leave the driving to the Columbus Convention and Visitors Bureau.
Columbus-Lowndes Public Library workers David Brasher, Erin Stringer are driving forces behind ‘Teen Lounge’
The Columbus-Lowndes Public Library works to meet the needs of all patrons — including teenagers — and library employees David Brasher and Erin Stringer have set up an area in the library designed for this group.
Town files suit against Starkville cable firm
Although the town of Brooksville has filed a lawsuit against Starkville-based Cable TV Inc., attorney Monique Montgomery is hoping both sides can settle the issue away from the courtroom.
Group works to spread word about 2010 Census
Next year marks the 2010 Census, and the Lowndes County Complete Count Committee is seeking volunteers to help better inform the public.
‘Whad’ya Know?’ Michael Feldman live from Columbus
A morning filled with humor, laced with interviews with local residents, history and quizzes, made up Michael Feldman’s Saturday appearance in Columbus with his “Whad’Ya Know?” radio show.
Republican analyst: GOP must ‘stand ground’
Minority candidates wishing to run as Republicans need to do many things to help them gain credibility and believability as a candidate for office, according to Angela McGlowan.
“You have to stand on your ground, stand fast and not take no for an answer,” she said.
Stephen Chapel takes first place in float contest
Wet weather conditions did not put a damper on the annual Columbus Christmas parade Monday night, according to Main Street Columbus Director Amber Murphree Brislin, but there were not as many participants as planned.
Organizers: Despite rain, parade will go on
Plans are still intact for Columbus to have “A Hometown Christmas” tonight, according to Main Street Columbus Director Amber Murphree Brislin.
Holliman case in hands of jurors
After four days of testimony, the jury today will get a chance to determine the guilt or innocence of Brian Holliman of Caledonia, whose Thursday request for an acquittal was denied.
Medical examiner: Death was homicide
Though it was reported as a suicide, Laura-Lee Godfrey Holliman’s death was homicide, a medical examiner testified Wednesday.
Officers: Holliman frantic at scene, but no sign of tears after shooting
When officers from the Caledonia Town Marshal and Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office responded to the Holliman residence after a frantic 911 call on the afternoon of Oct. 25, 2008, they noticed something about Brian Holliman’s demeanor concerning his wife, Laura Lee, who lay dead from a shotgun wound in the couple’s bedroom.
Laura Holliman planned to leave husband, grandmother testifies
Laura-Lee Godfrey Holliman’s maternal grandmother continued her testimony this morning at the Lowndes County Courthouse.
Jury selection begins in Holliman case
Jury selection began this morning at the Lowndes County Courthouse in the trial of Brian Holliman.
Holliman, 28, is accused of the Oct. 25, 2008, murder of his wife Laura, 24, at their home at 770 Wolfe Road in Caledonia. He has pleaded not guilty to the charge.
Columbus Christmas parade set for Dec. 7
The deadline approaches for entrants in “A Hometown Christmas,” the theme for this year’s Columbus Christmas parade.
Caledonia, Artesia to host Christmas parades
Lowndes County communities are making preparations for their annual Christmas parades coming soon.


