Articles by Jan Swoope
Company’s coming: Pilgrimage homes prepare to roll out the welcome — and the tour’s newest homeowners are adding a bit of a twist
“We’ve still got nine days left to get ready,” said Kathy Novotny, addressing the bolstering remark Tuesday to two important lieutenants in the corps of volunteers so essential to homeowners about to invite thousands of visitors to cross their thresholds.
Senior project focuses on reading, boosts school library
Seniors in the Heritage Academy Class of 2017 will leave a Literacy Legacy to benefit not only future classes but also youngsters in the community at large.
Cooking with crawfish: There’s more than one way to enjoy mudbug season
Crawfish season is one sure sign of spring. Banners go up on restaurants, and parties start moving outside where guests can pile up their plates with the “little lobsters.”
Kickoff party, Catfish in the Alley highlight opening of 77th Spring Pilgrimage
Live music and famously Southern foods will be served up in the opening days of the 77th annual Columbus Spring Pilgrimage.
Cultural exchange: One Columbus resident found dollmaking offers glimpse into Japan’s culture
On Wednesday, in Washington, D.C., the National Cherry Blossom Festival began.
Act of love: Shave your head before prom? If the reason is good enough …
Odds of a 17-year-old girl voluntarily shaving her head five days before her senior prom are slim to none, more none than slim.
Filmmakers reap rewards at 20th Magnolia Film Fest
The 20th annual Magnolia Film Fest held in Starkville March 2-4 drew entries from independent filmmakers from around the globe.
JA of Columbus announces 2017 Charity Ball court
Junior Auxiliary of Columbus has announced the members of its 67th annual Charity Ball court to be presented April 1 at Trotter Convention Center.
Kid Power II: Young Starkville cook competes on ‘MasterChef Junior’
And then there were 16. After auditioning with hundreds of other aspiring young cooks for the television series “MasterChef Junior,” Mark Coblentz of Starkville has baked, broiled and sauteed his way into the show’s top 16 junior home chefs from across the country.
Pits and pigs: An animal rescue looks to make a move, launches campaign
Dalton stood up on his hind legs, the tip of his wet nose happily pressed through the welded wire mesh of his dog kennel at Shaw Pit Bull Rescue, the better to greet visitors.
Wednesday event opens library quilt display
A field of vivid colors has bloomed at the Columbus-Lowndes Public Library.
Small change adds up to 4-County Foundation donations
Fourteen area organizations were beneficiaries of contributions from the 4-County Electric Power Association Foundation Feb. 20.
Blues for Willie begins tonight
Late bluesman Willie King was surrounded by friends and fans when he played the final concert of his life in the Columbus Arts Council’s Omnova Theater March 7, 2009.
High notes: Dr. B and Columbus High are singing a new tune, expanding a choral culture
“Chin up. Ears in line with your shoulders,” Doug Browning says, corralling the attention of teenagers getting settled in bright yellow and blue plastic chairs Wednesday in Columbus High School’s choir room.
MUW festival puts spotlight on music by women
Contributions of women composers to classical music are the focus of events March 3-4 at Mississippi University for Women.
Hot Mississippi blues will honor late Willie King
Eden Brent first met Willie King at a B.B. King Homecoming in Indianola.
Thursday talk features Southern Gardening’s Bachman
Gardening enthusiasts have heard him on the radio, read him in the newspaper, seen him on television. On Thursday, March 2 they can tap into horticulturist Gary Bachman’s expertise face-to-face in Columbus.
Sweet touch: A Columbus cook shares her joy of cooking
“I tripled the frosting recipe because I like a lot of frosting,” smiles Pat Wheeler, spreading sweet butter-yellow swirls on an oversized cake destined to please a lot of palates.
Really Really Free Market? What’s the catch? That’s just it — there isn’t one
When Desi Hrevatis moved from the Keystone State of Pennsylvania to the very deep South six months ago with her family, there was plenty to get used to.
New Music Trail Guide enhances group experience
Groups visiting the Music Trail at McKee Park in Starkville now have a Music Trail Guide to help enhance the experience with organized play.






















