Ask Rufus: The origins of Thanksgiving
I have recently had several people mention the Pilgrims and the origin of the American celebration of Thanksgiving.
Our View: At last, a real chance to finish Columbus’ amphitheater
The Columbus amphitheater was supposed to be a state-funded $3.5 million project that would be completed in a few years.
Letter: Insurance power makes reform unlikely
I just read Bobby Harrison’s column. He hesitantly raised the specter of the need for universal paid (or partly paid) health care. I think he
Our View: Columbus takes a step toward budget discipline on special events
For much of the 19th Century, the White House had an open door policy where presidents personally managed a vast number of federal appointments and were constantly besieged by people seeking government jobs. No appointment necessary. You just walked in, asked for a meeting with the president and waited your turn.
Raymond Barranco: Funding and tuition
As I argued in my last op-ed, colleges and universities have a moral and ethical obligation to provide students with a complete education. That is, after all, what students are paying for.
Our View: Who other than supes wants to split and spend OCH funds?
At some point, the Oktibbeha County Board of Supervisors are going to have to submit to the will of the residents of the county or offer a compelling argument to explain why it won’t.
Possumhaw: Ladybug fly away home
Tis the season for ladybugs swarming about by the thousands. They crawl inside the upstairs room where the sun heats the little critter, allowing them to warm up as the morning turned cold. They can be found on the porches, outdoor walls, the garage, the boat shed and sometimes on your shoulder or your sleeve.
Ask Rufus: Mr. Hooper’s Choctaw Dinner in 1822
Seven years ago, I wrote a column about a missionary from Mayhew having dinner with Moshulitubbee, a Choctaw chief, at his house northeast of present-day Brooksville.
Roses and Thorns: 11-15-25
A rose to everyone who answered the call to provide food for those affected by the federal government shutdown and the pause in SNAP benefits.
Thom Caraccio: Seeing double
Another look behind the scenes at the film and TV business.
Our View: Arrest over antisemitic outburst raises free speech concerns
A viral video of a Mississippi State student yelling an antisemitic slur and allegedly throwing change at Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy was an embarrassment to the city.
Kabir Karriem: Council’s decision to end lobbying contract is the right move
I want to commend the Columbus City Council for making the wise and responsible decision to end its contract with Worth Thomas Consultants.
Raymond Barranco: Abridged education
In four previous op-eds, I have drawn on my 18 years of experience teaching at the college level to explain why politics should not dictate what is taught in the classroom. In this piece, I invite readers to imagine the following scenario: You’re reading a book.
Mike Tagert: A legacy of stewardship
With the sale of the Oktibbeha County Hospital, our community has been entrusted with a rare opportunity.
Possumhaw: Building blocks of reading
My college roommate and I were both readers, and we came from families who taught us to love books and read their stories for enjoyment.
Stop fighting! Nobody has to lose anything
This year thoughts of Veterans Day reminded me of my father, brother, uncle, both grandfathers, and our son. Of course, I’ve thought of other friends, too, who are veterans and thank them for their service. But somehow family makes the thoughts and thanks a little more personal.
Roses and Thorns: 11-8-25
A rose to our fellow Americans who have defended our nation through military service as Tuesday’s Veterans Day approaches. There are currently 18 million living
Thom Caraccio: The no fly zone
I am done with flying.
Ask Rufus: John Murphy, a veteran of the revolution
Today’s column continues the stories of veterans of the American Revolution who resided in Lowndes County.
Our View: End of supermajority restores some balance, need for compromise
The adage, “Power corrupts, and absolute power corrupts absolutely,” is a reminder of the inherent dangers of unchecked authority in government.
Jelly Roll to perform at Jeffery Simmons Community Fun Day
July 3, 2025
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