A rose to Columbus Municipal School District Superintendent Stanley Ellis for his efforts in making the case for a $36 million bond that will go primarily to addressing safety issues across the district. Although CMSD’s roll-out of the bond was less than ideal, Ellis appears to be taking the right approach in marshaling voter support. In two public hearings and other public appearances, Ellis has patiently answered questions, calmly addressed misconceptions and rumors and urged citizens to take an active role in courting voters. In the most recent public meeting at Sim Scott Community Center, those efforts appear to be paying off. The meeting was an informative exchange of ideas between Ellis and attendants in an atmosphere of mutual respect. That approach, we believe, will go a long way in gaining the voters needed to secure the bond.
A rose to the Columbus Congregation of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and Shepherd’s Care and Share Ministry Church, also of Columbus, for a food donation program that will serve those facing food insecurity as well as Columbus Air Force Base airmen and their families. On Monday, the LDS Church will deliver nine pallets of shelf-stable food. Annie Hines, pastor at The Shepherd’s Care and Share Ministry, will assist in organizing its distribution. Two pallets of food will be donated. Bishop Doug Gosney, the ecclesiastical leader of the LDS congregation in Columbus and former Wing Commander at CAFB arranged to provide food for base personnel in an effort to reinforce the community’s appreciation for their service. CAFB airmen will join church volunteers to distribute the food in the community. We applaud the two faith groups for combining resources in a way that honors our CAFB neighbors while providing food to the less fortunate.
A rose to Mississippi State University student-journalists, who combined to win 38 awards at the 2024 Southeast Journalism Conference at Troy University this spring. MSU received more awards than any other university. Nearly two dozen MSU students walked away with top honors — including first place overall in the Onsite (a live competition conducted during the three-day event) and Best of the South competitions — for their work in broadcast, print and online journalism. Anthony Jenkins of Columbus, won third place in the TV Feature Reporting category while former Dispatch intern Lizzie Tomlin of Starkville, won fourth place in the Best News Writer category. MSU competed against students from the University of Kentucky, University of Alabama, University of Tennessee, Ole Miss and approximately 20 other universities from across the Southeast. We congratulate all the students and hope it will inspire them to hone their craft as the next generation of journalists.
A rose to those who are taking advantage of the arrival of Spring to build bonds in their neighborhoods by the simple act of walking. There are many benefits to walking, of course, including its effect on health, both physical and mental. But there are additional benefits that can be derived as you walk through your neighborhood. These walks are a great chance to get to know your neighbors — and not just the ones next door, but the ones down the road or around the corner. Don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation; a smile and a simple “hello” can go a long way. Consider asking someone how long they’ve lived in the neighborhood, or comment on their lawn or garden. Taking the time to make even casual connections with those living around you makes your neighborhood a friendlier, more familiar and safer place. We also encourage you to also take along a plastic bag and big up the litter you encounter. While there are often organized “clean-up” days in our communities, they don’t address the litter that accumulates on a daily basis. This, too, is a way to improve your neighborhood with only a little effort. So get out there, meet your neighbors and collect that litter. It’s good for you and good for your neighborhood.
The Dispatch Editorial Board is made up of publisher Peter Imes, columnist Slim Smith, managing editor Zack Plair and senior newsroom staff.
You can help your community
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.
You can help your community
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.
