A rose to Chuck Yarborough and his history students at Mississippi School for Math and Science for another outstanding production of Tales From The Crypt. Friday marked the final performance of this year’s program. In its 34 years, the hours of study, research and preparation poured into these productions have produced programs that are both educational and entertaining. It’s no surprise, then, that Tales from the Crypt continues to attract national acclaim. It may be the best thing that has ever happened to the historic, 181-year-old cemetery. It is a gift to tourists and residents alike, and is also a wonderful hands-on tool for teaching history and how to access our past and draw from it lessons that remain important today. We are extremely grateful to Yarborough and his students and proud of what they provide for us each year.
A rose to Columbus-Lowndes Convention and Visitors Bureau, its volunteers, vendors and musical performers for keeping alive a unique period in Columbus history through its Catfish in the Alley event. The 16th Catfish in the Alley was held April 6, drawing people to a section of 4th Street South that was the epicenter of Black business from its early days until well into the 20th Century. Known less formerly as Catfish Alley for the catfish fried in the open air on the street, Catfish Alley was also something of a melting pot, a place where Black business thrived and where white and Black citizens interacted. Catfish Alley and the annual event is both a celebration of Black culture and history and an important touchtone to remind all citizens of the larger, more diverse story of our city. We appreciate all who participated in this event.
A rose to Mississippi State’s Holmes Cultural Diversity Center and the World Neighbors Association for again allowing us to sample the food, dress, music customs of dozens of exotic locales right here in our own backyard through its annual International Fiesta. For the 32nd year, the Fiesta kicks off with a parade of flags at 11 a.m. today on the MSU Drill Field, followed by four hours filled with colorful expressions of traditional clothing, displays, entertainment and cuisine. The International Fiesta exhibits the rich diversity among the MSU student population and the university’s impact throughout the world. For all of us who would like to travel more than we are able to, the International Fiesta allows us to learn about the people and places across the Globe. It’s a great way to introduce kids to other cultures in a thoroughly entertaining way, and it’s a great place to have a sampling of international food for lunch. We thank all of the international students whose participation in this event makes it such a wonderful experience.
The Dispatch Editorial Board is made up of publisher Peter Imes, columnist Slim Smith, managing editor Zack Plair and senior newsroom staff.
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Quality, in-depth journalism is essential to a healthy community. The Dispatch brings you the most complete reporting and insightful commentary in the Golden Triangle, but we need your help to continue our efforts. In the past week, our reporters have posted 36 articles to cdispatch.com. Please consider subscribing to our website for only $2.30 per week to help support local journalism and our community.
