Articles by Cadence Harvey
Henderson, Sand roads to receive sewer service by 2027
Work to extend sewer service to the final portions of areas annexed into the city nearly three decades ago could begin next year after the city secured a $1.29 million Community Development Block Grant.
Weekend housing fair planned to assist first-time homebuyers
Residents looking to move from renting to owning can learn the ins and outs of homeownership this weekend during a housing fair at Sim Scott Park.
PACCAR cuts ribbon on new facility, plant upgrades
Just two years ago, a grassy lot sat vacant on the south end of PACCAR Engine Company’s campus on Frontage Road.
In memoriam: Bobby Harper remembered for service, honesty
From the moment George Irby met Bobby Harper in 1980 on a bus ride to Vicksburg, he quickly learned that wherever there was work to be done, Harper was already there “in the grease.”
Ask The Dispatch: What’s with all the un-mown grass in Starkville? The bees
Starkville residents may notice taller grass and more wildflowers than usual around the city this month as officials launch the city’s first No Mow March initiative.
Music: More than just ‘white, dead men’
Natalia Merlano Gomez began her career like many talented children – performing at home while family members watched from couches and chairs during reunions and special gatherings.
Murder trial to begin Monday in Noxubee County
A woman charged for the 2024 fatal shooting of Breanna Franklin, 23, is set to go on trial next week in Noxubee County Circuit Court.
Exchange Club honors nearly a dozen students for resiliency, service
After being diagnosed with a rare ligament disorder his freshman year of high school, Rowe Gillis could hardly eat. Standing 6 feet tall, Gillis’ weight dropped from 170 pounds to just 111 in a single year.
In memoriam: Former alderwoman remembered for compassion, candor
Friends, colleagues and loved ones describe Janette Self as one of the most compassionate people they knew. They’re also quick to add that, even so, she was always a straight shooter.
Residents, aldermen question lack of sewer in 1998 annexed territories
Frustration over the lack of sewer service in areas annexed into the city nearly three decades ago surfaced Tuesday during the Board of Aldermen’s regular meeting at City Hall.
Starkville considers ban on Kratom sales, use
Citizens could see Kratom, a product commonly sold in convenience stores as a pain relief or energy supplement, criminalized in Starkville as the city considers an ordinance that would ban the use and sale of the product in city limits.
IHL funding package poses major capital dollars for MSU, MUW
Mississippi State University and Mississippi University for Women could see significant funding increases for capital projects and programs under a Senate-approved higher education package now awaiting House action.
Songwriters to compete for main stage spot at Cotton District Arts Festival
Musicians from across the state will go head-to-head this weekend in a singer-songwriter showcase at Starkville Community Theatre to determine who will take the main stage at the 40th annual Cotton District Arts Festival in April.
Mistrial declared in sexual battery case
A 2021 sexual battery case involving a minor ended in a mistrial Friday after the jury failed to reach a unanimous verdict.
In memoriam: Pastor Ronnie Tucker’s legacy lives on in Starkville youth
On the second and fourth Sundays of each month, Pastor Ronnie B. Tucker could usually be found at J.L. King Park in blue jeans and a shirt, standing among other ministers and neighborhood families.
Man acquitted in 2022 Jess Lyons Road fatal-shooting
A man charged with the 2022 fatal shooting of Julius L. Wilson, 55, was found not guilty Feb. 12 in Lowndes County Circuit Court.
Sales tax revenue tracks ahead of projections
Columbus and Starkville’s sales tax collections fell slightly compared to February 2025, though both cities saw an increase in month-to-month collections, with an 8.52% increase in Columbus and a 4.99% increase in Starkville compared to January.
Oktibbeha officials say jail is nearing end-of-life
While operations at the county jail are reportedly running smoothly, conversations about building a new facility are beginning to take shape as officials weigh limited space and aging of the nearly 34-year-old building.
Split vote clears way for Starkville RV park development
Aldermen approved a special zoning exception Tuesday allowing a proposed RV park to be located near the intersection of Old West Point and East Garrard roads, despite concerns from nearby residents about traffic and safety.
Supes intend to endow all OCH proceeds, borrow up to $15M for projects
Supervisors on Monday voted on a single motion declaring their intent to place millions from the sale of OCH Regional Medical Center into a long-term endowment while also opening the door to issuing as much as $15 million in bonds to address countywide needs.





















