Articles by Grant McLaughlin

Port rail upgrades mean safer roads for drivers
Recent improvements at the Columbus-Lowndes Port mean material can now be loaded between railcars and barges quicker, potentially resulting in fewer trucks on the road.

Goings On with Grant: Masonic Temple undergoing repairs for possible new tenant
The conspicuous presence of scaffolding and construction workers since last week at the old Masonic Temple on Main Street has generated plenty of buzz in Columbus.

BankFirst to acquire fifth bank in last seven years
BankFirst Capital Corporation announced a merger last week with Tate Financial, the parent company of Sycamore Bank in Senatobia.

Goings On with Grant: Dairy Queen poised to go in old Jimmy John’s building
Hello! Welcome to Goings On with Grant. It is my great pleasure to introduce myself as The Dispatch’s new economic development reporter and business column writer.

Mike Hainsey celebrates 19-year career at GTRA
Colleagues, family and friends of Golden Triangle Regional Airport Director Mike Hainsey gathered Tuesday afternoon at the airport to bid farewell to him at the tail end of a 19-year career.

Planning Commission OKs 3 marijuana businesses
The Columbus Planning Commission on Monday recommended approval for a medical marijuana growhouse/dispensary, along with two other dispensaries, all of which plan to locate along Highway 45.

Unfinished purchase of Woody’s building to close June 15
After multiple delays, a deal to sell the former Woody’s on the Water building to a restaurateur from the coast is set to close June 15.