A rose in remembrance of 9/11, for those lost and for its after-effects that linger even now. On this day 21 years ago, terrorists attacked the World Trade Center in New York, The Pentagon and crashed a commercial airplane over Shanksville, Pennsylvania. When the stunning carnage had ended, 2,977 lives were lost, including 403 first responders. It is, by far, the greatest terrorist attack ever committed on U.S. soil, but it’s impact extends beyond the enduring grief of those lost lives. It still affects how we live and travel and how we weigh the cost of personal freedom against the potential of future deadly attacks. 9/11 even created a new cabinet-level department, the Department of Homeland Security, and a new federal agency, the Transportation Security Agency, commonly known as the TSA. Beyond that, 9/11 was a psychological blow to our nation, one whose implications are hard to quantify. So, today, we remember all that was lost on that awful Tuesday morning.

A rose to Scott and Whitney Ferguson, whose Rowdy Foundation provides support, resources and activities for autistic children and programs for care-givers and family members of those with autism. The Fergusons launched the Rowdy Foundation in 2019 a year after their 2-year-old son, Myers “Rowdy” Ferguson, was diagnosed with autism. In addition to connecting parents with resources available for autistic children, the foundation hopes to host fun events that allow autistic children to enjoy events in social settings that are often few and far between. In addition, a support group specifically for caregivers will begin on Tuesday, at the Columbus-Lowndes Public Library at 6 p.m.  There will also be a “Rowdy Races” obstacle course on Oct. 22 at the Lowndes County Soccer Complex. It consists of an obstacle course in which all children can participate. Ultimately, the goal of the foundation is to bridge the gap between the special-needs community and the public. We applaud the Fergusons and all who have joined their efforts in this important cause.

A rose to the Starkville Board of Aldermen, which narrowly defeated a motion for a 1-mill ad valorem tax increase after its third public hearing on the matter. As the vote suggests, the decision was not an easy one. In recommending the tax increase, Ward 2 alderman and budget chair Sandra Sistrunk said a modest tax increase in this year’s budget might help the city avoid an even higher increase next year. Opponents said the extra money needed to support city pay raises could instead be taken from its reserve fund. While no one likes the idea of paying more taxes, they are sometimes necessary. In this case, however, the city’s reserves will cover the added cost. We believe that tax increases should only be levied when it is an absolute necessity. In this case, proponents of the tax hike could not make that case. The aldermen kept faith with the taxpayers in this particular instance.

The Dispatch Editorial Board is made up of publisher Peter Imes, columnist Slim Smith, managing editor Zack Plair and senior newsroom staff.