Articles by Emma McRae
Bond-funded gym could cost double under storm shelter code
The cost of building a new gymnasium at Stokes-Beard Elementary could more than double original estimates after architects redesigned the project to meet storm shelter standards believed to be required under the city’s building code.
How MSU is taming AI ‘slime’
Trying to harness AI as an institution is sort of like holding a piece of slime, said Julie Jordan, senior adviser for AI and data governance for Mississippi State University.
Daughtry staying put after Jackson picks new chief
Chief Joseph Daughtry will remain at Columbus Police Department, after Jackson passed him over for the chief job there.
Roberson unwilling to give up on School Choice
In a meeting Tuesday that lasted less than two minutes, the Senate Education Committee unanimously voted to kill the House’s primary vehicle for getting its school choice legislation across the finish line.
Rotarians hope to top $15K at annual fundraiser Friday
Rotarians are looking to raise some money Friday and have a little fun doing it during the Rotary Club of Columbus’ annual fundraiser.
Property tax deadline extended for Lowndes, Oktibbeha, Clay residents
With parts of the state still recovering from Winter Storm Fern, Mississippi is extending the deadline to pay ad valorem taxes on real and personal property for some residents, including those in Clay, Lowndes and Oktibbeha counties.
CMSD, MUW partner to fill classrooms with homegrown teachers
A new partnership between Columbus Municipal School District and Mississippi University for Women aims to strengthen the pipeline of future teachers moving from the university into district classrooms.
First home demolished under blight remediation program
Three years since funds were first allocated to the city’s blight remediation program, officials on Wednesday watched the first purchased home be demolished.
State bills would allow MSMS to start accepting sophomores
If Mississippi School for Mathematics and Science has its way in the legislature this session, enrollment could expand to include high school sophomores as early as July 2026.
Frostbite races return Saturday with more than 1,000 runners
Kicking off bright and early Saturday morning, the 41st annual Frostbite races are set to host more than 1,000 runners for the second consecutive year.
Two men charged with rape, holding woman against her will
Two men are accused of raping and holding a woman against her will Wednesday, Columbus Police Department Public Information Officer Bryan Moore told The Dispatch.
Ferraez released after pleading guilty to embezzlement charges
Cory Ferraez, a former Hattiesburg attorney with ties to Lowndes County, pleaded guilty Thursday to two misdemeanor embezzlement counts, resolving two criminal cases that have been pending since 2021.
Former New Hope teacher charged with grooming
A former New Hope Middle School teacher arrested Thursday is accused of providing alcohol and tobacco products to students and engaging in an inappropriate relationship with a minor.
Two killed in Highway 12 head-on collision
Two Columbus residents were killed Thursday morning in a two-car collision on Highway 12, according to Lowndes County Coroner Greg Merchant.
Golden Triangle braces for winter storm
Residents and officials across the Golden Triangle are ramping up preparations ahead of a winter storm forecast expected to arrive at the end of the work week.
School Choice: Voucher bill sparks accountability, autonomy fears
A school choice bill heading to the House floor would allow families to use public education dollars to send their children to private school, a proposal both private and public school leaders in the Golden Triangle largely oppose.
Teen charged with shooting into dwelling after Saturday fight
A Saturday night fight escalated when a gun was fired into a home, Sheriff Eddie Hawkins told The Dispatch.
Child recovering from gunshot wound after Tuesday rescue
A child is recovering from a gunshot wound after being saved Monday by police, according to a Columbus Police Department press release.
Legislative session: School choice bills stir talk of Columbus-Lowndes consolidation
The Mississippi House and Senate both released plans this week to make it easier for public school students to transfer to districts they don’t reside within.
In Memoriam: From Rotary to the runway, Stuart Vance shaped region’s future
From the governor’s office to the Golden Triangle Regional Airport to the wall of Little Dooey’s in Starkville, it’s hard to miss the legacy Stuart “Stu” Preston Vance leaves behind.
