A rose to all the fathers out there on the day set aside to recognize the unique role dads play in the lives of our children. There was a time, not so long ago, when the primary role of the father was “bread-winner,” a time when moms stayed home and were responsible for the lion’s share — or should we say lioness’s share — of the parenting. Today, the role of a father goes beyond “putting food on the table,’’ extending to almost every aspect of child-rearing. This sharing of parenting duties provides immeasurable benefits to children, for whom the role of father is seen as far more than the household economic engine. The best of today’s fathers aren’t judged by the income they produce, but by their active and nurturing roles in the growth and development of their children. The bond between a good father and his children is not easily broken. It sustains our children into their own adulthood. So Happy Fathers Day to all of our great dads!
A rose to our three Golden Triangle Main Street organizations, which collected a combined five awards at last week’s Mississippi Main Street Association Awards ceremony. West Point Main Street’s Lisa Klutts was named “Outstanding Main Street Director.” West Point was also chosen for “Outstanding Marketing Campaign.” Starkville mayor Lynn Spruill was chosen as one of four “Main Street Heroes” for her support of Main Street Starkville while the late Dan Camp of Starkville was honored with the “Sam Kaye Excellence in Design” award. Meanwhile, Main Street Columbus member Park Place Salon and Boutique was chosen as “Outstanding Merchant.” These owners reflect the outstanding work our local Main Street associations do in promoting local businesses and the communities they serve. Congratulations to all!
A rose to the Starkville Parks and Recreation Department, whose free summer programs are certain to break the boredom of the long summer break for school-children in our community. While kids enjoy the time off from the demands of the classroom that the summer provides, many — especially those whose families may not have the financial resources needed for vacation trips or camps or other activities — may find themselves with nothing to do. Thanks to the Starkville Parks and Recreation Department’s free activity programs throughout June and July, kids have a chance to enjoy fun and healthy activities, all free of charge or sign-up. Kids can drop in to participate in a variety of programs. All ages can attend these free programs, but children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. SPRD is also hosting adapted sport programming for people with disabilities throughout the summer. Thanks to these programs, the summer days may be long, but they don’t have to be boring.
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 38 articles to cdispatch.com. Please consider subscribing to our website for only $2.30 per week to help support local journalism and our community.
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