Established 1879 | Columbus, Mississippi

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Thursday | March 11, 2021

Hwy 182 project plans unveiled at open house

Revitalization will include landscaped Starkville Mayor
Lynn Spruill ex-
plains to Rick Welch
medians, enhanced pedestrian access how a rendering of
a proposed revital-
BY ZACK PLAIR “It’s going to look a lot differ- ization project for
[email protected] ent,” said Vaughn, who serves as the Highway 182
corridor will impact
Ward 7 alderman. “Hopefully, we’ll Welch’s business,
Henry Vaughn bring a lot more business to this Rick’s Cafe. The
has lived near High- side of town.” city unveiled the
way 182 all his life. The city unveiled preliminary proposed design
As a child, he said, design plans to revitalize the seg- at an open house
he and his friends ment of the highway between Wednesday at City
would sit by the Long Street and Old West Point Hall. The $12.66
highway and count Road at a pair of open house events million project, 80
the cars that drove Vaughn Wednesday in the mayor’s confer- percent of which will
come from a federal
by. ence room at City Hall. Starkville grant, should begin
By 2024, there will be a lot more has secured a U.S. Department construction some
than passing cars to count there if of Transportation grant to pay for time next year.
the city has its way. See HIGHWAY 182, 6A Zack Plair/Dispatch Staff

PLANTING AZALEAS Lowe’s assistant

manager
accused of
embezzlement
Corporate office reached
out to investigators
after finding several
irregularities at Military
Road store over past year
DISPATCH STAFF REPORT

COLUMBUS —
An assistant manag-
er at Lowe’s Home
Improvement in
Columbus has been
arrested for embez-
zlement.
Columbus police
arrested Adam Wil- Williston
liston, 31, of Columbus, on Tues-
day. Police Chief Fred Shelton
Deanna Robinson/Dispatch Staff confirmed Williston is an assistant
Jasper Drouillard-Wagner, 3, helps his parents, Jill Drouillard and James Wagner clear out the flower bed at their home in manager at the Military Road store.
Columbus Monday afternoon. “We are putting down mulch and planting Azaleas,” Jill said. Officials at Lowe’s corporate of-
fice reached out to investigators af-
ter conducting an audit of the store
See EMBEZZLEMENT, 6A

Pharmacies join effort to administer COVID vaccine

One-dose Johnson & Johnson shot CFR searching for new
becoming more widely available in area safety educator to
BY TYLER B. JONES
[email protected]
Johnson/Janssen shot. Fami-
ly Pharmacy No. 2 on High-
raise public awareness
COLUMBUS — As the
way 49 Frontage Road offers
the Pfizer-BioNTech and the
about fire safety
COVID-19 vaccine becomes Johnson & Johnson vaccines. BY ISABELLE ALTMAN
increasingly available, sever- Those pharmacies will [email protected]
al clinics and pharmacies in allow walk-in and drive-
the Golden Triangle area are through patients with no COLUMBUS —
offering the vaccine to eligi- appointment, but they must After nearly a year
ble residents. show they qualify. Tyler B. Jones/Dispatch Staff and a half, Columbus
Family Pharmacy No. 1, “We’ve been seeing a lot As the COVID-19 vaccine becomes increasingly available, Fire and Rescue is
Family Pharmacy No. 2 and several clinics and pharmacies in the Golden Triangle area hiring a new public
of people come in for the are offering the vaccine to eligible residents. Family Phar-
Southern Drugs are a few vaccine ever since we got it,” fire and life safety
macy No. 2 on Highway 45 Frontage Road in Columbus is
pharmacies in Columbus pharmacist Min Yung Sung administering the Pfizer-BioNTech and Johnson & Johnson/ educator.
currently offering different of Family Pharmacy No. 2 Janssen vaccines. The position, for-
types of the vaccine. Both said. merly held by CFR Andrews
Family Pharmacy No. 1 on While the vaccine is not certain underlying health public and soon everybody Public Information Officer Antho-
Lehmberg Road and South- available to the general pub- conditions, long-term care fa- will be able to get it. ny Colom who retired in November
ern Drugs on Main Street lic right now, those who do cility residents and staff and “It started at age 65 and 2019, is one of the public faces for
offer the Moderna vaccine qualify include teachers, first health care workers. Sung now it’s 50,” Sung said. “Even- the fire department and oversees
and are about to start ad- responders, adults ages 50 said the vaccine is gradually tually, it’ll be everybody.” training and education initiatives
ministering the Johnson & or older, anyone 16-49 with becoming available for the See PHARMACIES, 3A See CFR, 6A

INSIDE FIVE QUESTIONS CALENDAR COMING SUNDAY PUBLIC

Business 5B 1 What 6’2” chef had her
Thursday, The Spring MEETINGS
Classifieds 6B kitchen countertops built two edition of March 12:
Comics 4B
Crossword 6B
inches higher than the standard
height so she could work more
March 25 Progress Starkville Board
■ Candidate fo- magazine
Dear Abby 4B comfortably? documents of Aldermen
rum: Hear Columbus
Obituaries 5A 2 What is an optometrist life inside work session,
Opinions 4A concerned with — ears, eyes or municipal candidates
nose? at the 2021 Candidate a hospital 10 a.m., City
3 Who is not featured in the Forum at the Lyceum at during the Hall
sculpture carved into Mount pandemic,
WEATHER Rushmore — George Wash-
Lee (former Lee High
School). The event is features
March 15:
ington, Benjamin Franklin or three inspired Oktibbeha

High 76 Low 55
Increasing clouds
Theodore Roosevelt?
4 In the film “Avatar,” what
color are the beings in the Na’vi
co-sponsored by The
Dispatch and WCBI and
will follow a Q&A format
people and
much more.
County Board of
Supervisors, 9
Full forecast on with a moderator. COVID
Find it in a.m., Chancery
tribe, who populate the planet Sunday’s
page 3A. Pandora? precautions will be Courthouse
5 On which Mediterranean island paper.
taken for a limited live March 16:
was Napoleon, Bonaparte born audience and the event
— Corsica, Sardinia or Corfu? Starkville Board
will be livestreamed
online by WCBI. Reserve of Aldermen,
Answers, 6B
free tickets online at 5:30 p.m., City
cdispatch.com/forum Hall

DISPATCH CUSTOMER SERVICE 328-2424 | NEWSROOM 328-2471

2A THURSDAY, MARCH 11, 2021 The Dispatch • www.cdispatch.com

Biden’s speech goals: Mourn

loss, urge caution, offer hope
President will ‘talk
about what we’ve been Congress approves $1.9 trillion virus
through as a nation this relief bill in win for Biden, Democrats
past year’ in his first THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

prime-time address WASHINGTON — A Congress riven along party lines has approved
the landmark $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief bill, as President Joe Biden
since taking office and Democrats claimed a major triumph on legislation marshaling the
government’s spending might against twin pandemic and economic cri-
BY ZEKE MILLER
The Associated Press
ses that have upended a nation.
The House gave final congressional approval Wednesday to the
WASHINGTON — Marking a sweeping package by a near party line 220-211 vote precisely seven
year of loss and disruption, Pres- weeks after Biden entered the White House and four days after the Sen-
ident Joe Biden will use his first ate passed the bill. Republicans in both chambers opposed the legisla-
prime-time address since taking of- tion unanimously, characterizing it as bloated, crammed with liberal
fice to steer the nation toward a hun- policies and heedless of signs the crises are easing.
gered-for sentiment — hope — in “Help is here,” Biden tweeted moments after the roll call, which end-
the “next phase” of the fight against ed with applause from Democratic lawmakers. Biden said he’d sign the
the pandemic that has killed more measure Friday.
than 529,000 Americans.
Previewing his remarks, Biden
and to be both the mourner in chief Disease Control and Prevention re-
said he would “talk about what
and to explain how he’s leading the leased initial guidance for how vac-
we’ve been through as a nation this country out of this,” said presiden- cinated people can resume some
past year, but more importantly, tial historian and Rice University normal activities. On Wednesday,
I’m going to talk about what comes professor Douglas Brinkley.
next.” Congress approved the president’s
“This is a big moment,” Brin- $1.9 trillion “American Rescue
Biden’s challenge Thursday kley added. “He’s got to win over
night will be to honor the sacri- Plan,” aimed at easing the econom-
hearts and minds for people to stay ic impact of the virus on tens of
fices made by Americans over the masked and get vaccinated, but
last year while encouraging them millions of people. And the nation
also recognize that after the last
to remain vigilant despite “virus was on pace to administer its 100
year, the federal government hasn’t
fatigue” and growing impatience millionth dose of vaccine as soon as
forgotten you.”
to resume normal activities given Biden’s evening remarks in the Thursday.
the tantalizing promise of vaccines. East Room are central to a pivotal Biden said he would focus his
Speaking on the one-year anniver- week for the president as he ad- remarks on what his administra-
sary of the World Health Organi- dresses the defining challenge of tion plans to deliver in the coming
zation’s declaration of a pandemic, his term: shepherding the nation months, but also reiterate his call
he’ll mourn the dead, but also proj- through the twin public health and for Americans to continue to prac-
ect optimism about the future. economic storms brought about by tice social distancing and wear face
“This is a chance for him to really the virus. coverings to hasten the end of the
beam into everybody’s living rooms On Monday, the Centers for pandemic.

Senate confirms Merrick Garland to be US attorney general

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS Garland will now inher- Trump’s presidency, At- the department’s probe
it a Justice Department torney General William into his campaign’s ties
WASHINGTON — The embattled by a turbulent Barr resigned after refut- to Russia, prompted abun-
Senate confirmed Merrick era under Trump, who ing Trump’s false claims dant criticism from Dem-
Garland on Wednesday to insisted that the attorney that widespread electoral ocrats over what they saw
be the next U.S. attorney general and the depart- fraud had led to his defeat. as the politicizing of the
general with a strong bi- ment must be loyal to Trump’s pressure on nation’s top law enforce-
partisan vote, placing the him personally, battering officials, particularly on ment agencies.
widely-respected, veteran the department’s reputa- Barr and former Attorney
judge in the post as Pres- tion. In the last month of General Jeff Sessions over
ident Joe Biden has vowed
to restore the Justice De-
partment’s reputation for
independence.
Democrats have
praised Garland, a federal
appeals court judge who
was snubbed by Repub-
licans for a seat on the
Supreme Court in 2016,
as a highly qualified and
honorable jurist who is
uniquely qualified to lead
the department after a tu-
multuous four years under
former President Donald
Trump. Many Republi-
cans praised him as well,
saying he has the right
record and temperament
for the moment. He was
confirmed 70-30.

Jury selection
resumes as Chauvin
faces possible
new charge
THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

MINNEAPOLIS —
Potential jurors in Derek
Chauvin’s murder trial
return Thursday to con-
tinue a selection process
moving more quickly than
expected. Meanwhile, the
former policeman charged
in George Floyd’s death
faced the prospect of an
additional third-degree
murder charge.
Five jurors have been
seated after just two days
of screening by attorneys
and Judge Peter Cahill,
who had set aside at least
three weeks to fill the pan-
el.
Cahill was expected to
start Thursday’s proceed-
ing by discussing next
steps in the state’s effort
to add a third-degree mur-
der charge. Cahill rejected
the charge twice before
an appellate ruling in an
unrelated case provided
new grounds for it right
before the trial began. On
Wednesday, the state’s
Supreme Court rejected
Chauvin’s effort to block
the charge.
 The Dispatch • www.cdispatch.com THURSDAY, MARCH 11, 2021 3A

Mississippi House nixes change to tourism promotion

Gov. Reeves scheduled to sign bill banning transgender putting restrictions on
guns; exceptions would
2434 would make Capitol
Police a part of the De-
Dead
BIRTH CERTIFI-
athletes from competing in girls’ or women’s sports teams be allowed for courts, uni-
versities, community col-
partment of Public Safety,
giving the state more po-
CATE — Senate Bill 2205
would have allowed any
in schools, community colleges and universities today leges and schools. House lice power inside parts of
adopted person to obtain
Bill 634 is similar. the city of Jackson where
BY EMILY passed will return to their LETES — Senate Bill HIGHWAY PATROL a certified copy of his or
state government build-
WAGSTER PET TUS original chamber, which 2313 would allow college — Senate Bill 2788 her original birth cer-
ings are located.
The Associated Press could either accept the athletes to be compensat- would give the Highway tificate at least 18 years
REVENGE PORN —
amendments or seek final ed for their own name, im- Patrol more authority Senate Bill 2121 would after the certificate is is-
JACKSON — The Mis- negotiations. There are sued.
age and likeness. to respond to speeding, set penalties for people
sissippi House has killed later deadlines for budget HISTORY BOARD —
COMPUTER SCI- blocked highways or oth- who share intimate visual
a bill that would have cre- and revenue bills. Senate Bill 2727 would
ENCE — House Bill 633 er emergencies. The bill material of another per-
ated a state Department Here is the status of have changed the nomi-
would require the state would remove the cur- son without that person’s
of Tourism. Republican some general bills: Department of Education rent ban on the Highway permission and with the nation process state De-
Lt. Gov. Delbert Hose-
to set a computer sci- Patrol’s use of radar to intent to cause harm. partment of Archives and
mann and the Senate had
proposed taking tourism Gone to the governor ence curriculum for K-12 detect speeding in cities TEACHER PAY — History board members.
promotion duties away TR A NSGENDER schools. with a population of at The Senate amended Historians criticized the
from Mississippi Develop- ATHLETES — Senate CRIMINAL JUSTICE least 15,000. House Bill 852 to give proposal, saying that hav-
ment Authority, the state Bill 2536 would ban trans- — House Bill 525 and Sen- OUTDOORS — House most teachers a $1,000 ing nominations from the
agency that works on job gender athletes from ate Bill 2795 would revise Bill 1231 would create pay raise. Newer teachers governor and lieutenant
creation. competing in girls’ or some rules for parole. the Mississippi Outdoor would get $1,100. The bill governor could politicize
The tourism bill was women’s sports teams in ELECTRIC BICY- Stewardship Trust Fund returns to the House. the board. Under the cur-
among the proposals that Mississippi schools, com- CLES — Senate Bill 2483 to pay for conservation TRIBAL IDENTIFI- rent system, the board’s
died under the latest leg- munity colleges and uni- says electric bicycles projects. CATION — House Bill members nominate new
islative deadline. versities. Republican Gov. would not be regulated as PECANS — Senate 277 would add tribal iden- members.
Wednesday was the Tate Reeves is scheduled motor vehicles. Bill 2072 would create a tification, with photo, to TOURISM — Senate
last day for Mississippi to sign it Thursday. GUNS — Senate Bill committee to study “to the list of legally accept- Bill 2820 would have cre-
House and Senate to con- 2107 would prevent cities maximize the benefits” able IDs for many trans- ated a state Department
sider general bills and Alive and counties from having of pecan harvesting. This actions in the state. of Tourism.
constitutional amend- ALCOHOL — House contracts or rental agree- is a change from the orig-
ments that had already Bill 1135 and Senate Bill ments that restrict pos- inal version of the bill,
passed the other cham- 2804 would allow home session, sale or transport which proposed stricter
ber. Some bills will go delivery of beer, wine and of firearms or ammuni- penalties for stealing pe-
to the governor. Bills liquor. tion. It also would prevent cans.
that were amended and COLLEGE ATH- many state agencies from POLICE — Senate Bill

Music? Yes. Dancing? No, as New Orleans eases virus rules

New rules take effect Friday morning it off, although not right
away. “We have a floor
how trumpet players
should empty their spit
BY KEVIN MCGILL in response to a decline plan that we’ve already valves.
The Associated Press of new coronavirus cas- mapped out,” he said Dancing is ruled out
es and hospitalizations Wednesday afternoon. under the regulations,
NEW ORLEANS — in the city. It was not “We’re a big room, so we which also note that pa-
Live indoor music can immediately clear how have that advantage.” trons must “refrain from
resume in New Orleans many bars and other Greenberg added that cheering or singing
beginning this weekend, live music venues will be he and the bar’s owners along.”
city officials announced able to meet them and and staff still need to re- “Each club, institution,
Wednesday, but dancing begin hosting live enter- view the extensive regu- is really going to have to
will remain prohibited, tainment again in a city lations, which are based look at those and then
while venues, performers where music is ingrained on guidelines already in check with the state fire
and audiences will be un- in cultural history and vi- effect statewide. They marshal,” city health di-
der strict requirements tal to tourism. require mask wearing, rector Jennifer Avegno
to employ measures to Brian Greenberg, gen- social distancing, prop- said at a news confer-
control the spread of the eral manager of Tipiti- er ventilation and also ence with Mayor LaToya
coronavirus. na’s, said he thinks the include details on when Cantrell. “They’re not
The new rules take historic music club and singers are required to overly onerous. They can
effect Friday morning, bar may be able to pull wear face coverings and be done.”

Pharmacies
Continued from Page 1A
The Pfizer and Mod- son one is the only one said. “It will make it easi- and pharmacies.
erna vaccines require that is compared to new- er on companies.” Burton said he and
two doses with the Pfizer er strains,” Burton said. The side effects from Family Pharmacy No. 1
vaccines being three to “All of them are good, the vaccines vary by per- are administering this
six weeks apart and Mod- and any coverage is good son, he said. Some people vaccine because they
erna four to six weeks coverage.” may endure headaches, want to bring COVID-19
apart. The Johnson & The Johnson & John- chills, fever or other to an end and believe
Johnson vaccine requires son vaccination is the symptoms, while others that anyone who is eligi-
only one dose. easiest option for some may not experience any ble should get the vac-
The Johnson & John- people, Burton said, be- side effects. The Centers cine.
son vaccine became cause they do not have to for Disease Control and “It is something that
available only a few worry about scheduling Prevention website has we feel like we need to
weeks ago, and people an appointment for their a list of potential side be doing,” Burton said.
have been questioning second dose. He said he effects for each kind of “We’re just trying to help
its efficacy compared to has seen many business- vaccine. the elderly, the first re-
the other two vaccines, es utilizing this option. People can refer to the
sponders, anybody that
Pharmacist Bo Burton of “We got the Johnson Mississippi Department
feels like it will help
Family Pharmacy No. 1 & Johnson shot so that if of Health website and find
them feel safe.”
said. He said he believes employers want to send out which locations are
any of the three vaccines their employees up here, administering the vac-
are effective, but all have they just send them one cination in each county.
their own strengths. time and don’t have to Eligible Mississippi res-
“The other vaccines worry about everybody idents can be vaccinated
have a higher efficacy, being up here again af- at MSDH drive-through
but the Johnson & John- ter that 28 days,” Burton sites and selected clinics

BUILDING PERMITS
Mark Thompson Electric ■ Amber Cooke; 4678 Highway
City of Columbus ■ Lee and Peter Tortorici; 69 S.; move mobile home;
March 1-5, 2021 1219 3rd Avenue North; me- Alan’s Mobile Home
■ CRIBS LLC; 116 Crestwood chanical; same ■ Chad and Amber Bradley;
Drive; repair soffit/fascia ■ Patricia L. Winters; 101 Lot 186 New Hope Park; con-
boards; YR Construction Waverly Road; plumbing; P & H struct s/f residence; McNees
■ William Greenlaw; 220 Union Plumbing Construction
Drive; move mobile home; ■ Hugh Edmonds Motel Inc et ■ Jami Harvey Dodd; 3594
Chester McNairy al; 2051 Highway 45 North; Highway 373; remodel s/f
■ Lee and Peter Tortorici; plumbing; A & H Electrical & residence; Renovation of
1219 3rd Avenue North; sec- Refrigeration LLC Mississippi
ond floor addition; same ■ Jimmy Stephenson; 2324 ■ George Mounce; 1485 main
■ Bank of Vernon; 420 Ala- 5th Avenue South; plumbing; P St.; construct storage/shop;
bama Street; signs; Mid-South & H Plumbing owner
Signs ■ Ross Whitman and Holleen ■ Elija Jameson; 49 Sweden-
■ Boyce and Donna Adams; Krogh; 201 3rd Avenue South; burg Road; construct storage/
2005 Seminole Road; Addition; plumbing; Truesdale Plumbing shop; owner
Harrell General Contractors ■ Terry Taylor; 7057 highway
■ Ustor Inside LLC; 304 5th
Street South; Fire sprinkler
Lowndes County 12 E; enclose pole barn; owner
■ Keith and Chrissy Heard;
SOLUNAR TABLE
The solunar period indicates

installation; P&M Auto Fire March 10, 2021 1822 Stinson Creek Road;
peak-feeding times for fish and game.
Thurs. Fri.
Major — 12:34a
Protection Inc. ■ Willie Brewer; 725 Porter construct pool house and pool; Minor 7:10a 7:43a
■ Cassandra Roberts; 124 Road; set up mobile home; Precision Pools and Construc- Major 12:10p 12:56p
Minor 6:15p 7:13p
Airline Road; electrical; Mark owner tion Courtesy of Mississippi Department
of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks
Thompson Electric ■ Willie Brewer; 725 Porter ■ Jay Gallop; 425 Herchel

The Dispatch
■ Bobby Stewart; 203 McHall Road; move mobile home; Mills Gallop Road; construct s/f
Drive; electrical; same Home Center residence; owner
■ Donald Staats; 2206 Bluec- ■ Kaylee Bush; Williams Road; ■ Fernando Phillips; Hwy 45 N.
utt Road; electrical; Weathers set up mobile home; owner Alt.; construct s/f residence; The Commercial Dispatch (USPS 142-320)
Electric Inc. ■ Kaylee Bush; Williams Road; owner Published daily except Saturday. Answers to common questions:
■ David Gatewood; 209 17th move mobile home; Mills ■ Demorris McCoy; 37 Entered at the post office at Columbus, Mississippi.
Periodicals postage paid at Columbus, MS Phone: 662-328-2424
Street South; electrical; Mark Home Center Constable Lane; construct s/f POSTMASTER, Send address changes to:
Thompson Electric ■ Amber Cooke; 4678 Highway residence; David Malone The Commercial Dispatch, P.O. Box 511, Columbus, MS 39703 Website: cdispatch.com/help
■ MCD Properties LLC; 34, 69 S.; set up mobile home; ■ Marty Dees; Dodson Road; Published by Commercial Dispatch Publishing Company Inc.,
516 Main St., Columbus, MS 39703
Report a news tip: [email protected]
Glenwood Drive; electrical; Pounder’s Electric construct s/f residence; owner
Opinion
4A THURSDAY, MARCH 11, 2021
PETER BIRNEY IMES Editor/Publisher
BIRNEY IMES III Editor/Publisher 1998-2018
BIRNEY IMES JR. Editor/Publisher 1947-2003

Dispatch
The
BIRNEY IMES SR. Editor/Publisher 1922-1947

ZACK PLAIR, Managing Editor

BETH PROFFITT Advertising Director
MICHAEL FLOYD Circulation/Production Manager
MARY ANN HARDY Controller

OUR VIEW

For the mayor, we wish for a speedy recovery and for more clarity
W
ednesday morning, person’s medical information. relevant questions. issues until further notice. ering from either.
Columbus May- Elected officials do not forfeit On Feb. 21, the mayor was I am still under the care of A more forthright state-
or Robert Smith those rights. admitted into Baptist Memo- my doctor. My family and I ment would have done much
released a statement on his Yet, because these officials rial Hospital-Golden Triangle, are most appreciative for the to set the record straight on
health. perform the public’s work, where he was treated for prayers and well wishes we those matters.
It turned out to be a lot we believe it is important for 12 hours. Vice mayor Bill have received during this Wednesday’s statement
like ordering a meal at a bad them to share more informa- Gavin has assumed mayoral time.” does nothing to end those
restaurant: It arrived late and tion than might be expected of duties since shortly after Unfortunately, the state- rumors, a situation that bene-
there wasn’t much to it when it a private citizen. Citizens need that time. Although Smith ment shed no light on the fits neither the mayor nor his
got there. to know if the people they has issued brief responses to prospect of him being able to constituents.
We acknowledge the sen- have entrusted to do the pub- questions about news items, resume his duties or -- per- No doubt, the mayor has
sitive nature of this matter. lic’s bidding are capable of the until Wednesday, he had not haps as important -- whether the thoughts, prayer and
Americans, even when they task at hand or can reasonably addressed his health. he intends to continue his well-wishes of all citizens for a
are public officials, have an be expected to perform those Seventeen days after being campaign for reelection. quick and full recovery.
expectation of privacy, espe- duties in the future and, if so, admitted to the hospital, the There has also been spec- In the meantime, we en-
cially when it relates to health when. This goes well beyond mayor released a tree-sen- ulation the mayor suffered a courage the mayor to keep the
matters. There are few rights morbid curiosity. tence statement. It read: stroke or heart attack, though public informed on his status
guarded more rigidly in our The mayor’s statement did “I continue to recover at Gavin has said publicly he for the benefit of a concerned
society than the privacy of a little to enlighten us on those home from health-related doesn’t believe Smith is recov- community.

OTHER EDITORS CARTOONIST VIEW

Ruling could endanger
campus speech restrictions
The dubious principles be-
hind campus speech restrictions
have rapidly proliferated outside
the university in recent times as
part of the new fashionable woke
authoritarianism. Ironically,
such limits on free expression
may soon be eradicated on cam-
pus even as they further infest
American culture at large.
On Monday, the U.S. Supreme
Court issued a ruling in a Geor-
gia case that potentially grants
standing to thousands of college
students to challenge the con-
stitutionality of campus speech
rules. That, in turn, could force
universities to rethink such
policies or risk an increasing
number of lawsuits and addition-
al financial liability.
The case involved Chike
Uzuegbunam, who in 2016 was
a student at Georgia Gwinnett
College when school officials
designated two small locations
as “free speech expression
areas.” The designated spots
— which amounted to less
than two-tenths of 1 percent
of the school’s total property,
his lawyers calculated — were
available “only on weekdays and
only for four hours on most days
and two on Fridays,” The New
York Times reported. “Students
could reserve them once every
30 days.”
Mr. Uzuegbunam sought to
secure one of the locations to THE NATION
preach to students about his
evangelical faith. But … wait for
it … some students complained
about even this minor concession
Cultural outrage
T
to the First Amendment, and the oday, we live in a with hip hop of the most are next in the long line of things to be
police eventually told him he was society where we rank order. canceled by the progressive left, as ap-
allowed only to hand out liter- seem to sprint from If you aren’t sure what parently six of them will no longer be
ature or talk to others one-on- one manufactured cultural I’m talking about, I’m re- published due to “insensitive imagery.”
one. As the Times put it, “Public outrage to the next. The ferring to a “song” dubbed Are you kidding me?
speaking in a free speech zone, goal posts seem to keep “WAP” by Cardi B and Singing about sexual acts of the
the officer said, amounted to moving regarding what’s Megan Thee Stallion. I highest raunch factor is considered
disorderly conduct.” appropriate and what’s won’t elaborate on what the artistic expression and yet a children’s
You can’t make this stuff up. not, and frankly, it’s quite acronym stands for because book that has served up timeless sto-
Mr. Uzuegbunam sued. The exhausting. kids might read this as well ries that have been read to hundreds of
college gave a half-hearted de- But that’s what the left as adults. If you haven’t thousands of children is now verboten?
fense of its hostility to the Bill of wants: a numbing of tradi- listened to the “song,” don’t On what grounds? Let’s not forget that
Rights, actually arguing, accord- tional virtues and the de- Armstrong Williams bother, seriously. It is gar- some of Dr. Seuss’ books have been
ing to the Times, that promoting grading of the conservative bage of the lowest form and converted into movies such as “Dr.
Christianity on campus could
violate the “fighting words” doc-
values that used to define
who we are so that the pro-
The breakdown to call it music is absolutely
embarrassing. Yet somehow
Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christ-
mas,” which have made the liberals of
trine. But the school eventually
relented and dropped the policy,
gressives can continue their
march toward situational
and dismissing this salacious “song” has re-
ceived accolades across the
Hollywood millions of dollars. It would
actually be pretty comical to watch
arguing that this made the ethics. If it feels right, thenof well- music spectrum, reaching the hypocrisy if it weren’t so sad to
student’s lawsuit moot. A federal do it; if it offends even one recognition not unlike that see what it’s doing to the fabric of this
appeals court agreed, but the person it must be canceled established which the song of the year beautiful and diverse nation.
Supreme Court held that even a and excommunicated from might achieve. Further- Let’s hypothesize for a second that
request for nominal damages in society. What’s worse? Fail- cultural norms more, this song is readily the canceling of these six books is
a case involving a core constitu- ure to jump on the cancel accessible to children of all actually driven by an underlying racist
tional right is enough to allow culture band wagon could is exactly how ages as it is aired on FM innuendo. Well, what’s more racist
the controversy to be adjudicated be detrimental to you, your radio and satellite radio than a song that wantonly flings the
as long as the plaintiff meets a career, your business or institutions across the nation. To put N-word around and that talks about the
handful of other conditions. your family. how ridiculous this is in per- forced submission of Black women?
“That should have colleges The breakdown and dis- break down spective, let’s keep in mind It literally does not make sense, and I
missing of well-established that the progressive left haven’t seen one person successfully
and universities very, very
worried — and might be the cultural norms is exactly and how demanded that the Christ- rationalize supporting the song “WAP”
first real set of consequences
for academia after decades of
how institutions break
down and how countries
countries mas classic “Baby, It’s Cold
Outside” be taken off the air
while also supporting the canceling of
Dr. Seuss. I really don’t get it and you
forcing speech codes and silence
on their students,” noted blogger
collapse. The path that we
are snowballing down needs
collapse. as it was deemed sexist.
Most recently, the de-
shouldn’t either. But, perhaps this is
what the twisted entertainment guild
Ed Morrissey on hotair.com. to be arrested if America is to continue ranged left-wing mob has set their eyes wants: for decent families to be so
“Just the added risk of ending to exist. Most reasonable Americans, on the incredible Dr. Seuss. Yes, you exasperated that they just throw their
up in federal court might be whether on the left or the right of the read that correctly, one of the most im- hands up and tune out. But I would ar-
enough of an incentive to force political spectrum, certainly see how pactful childhood authors of all time. gue that’s the first step toward license
these universities and colleges to outrageous the progressive movement So iconic that both former first lady for this infectious disease to continue
recalculate risk and reward.” is becoming. How can they not? Take, Michelle Obama and former President festering and spreading.
The practical effect of Mon- for example, the latest manifestation of Barack Obama could be seen reading Armstrong Williams is an American
day’s ruling will be to bolster this cultural slide toward Gomorrah, his texts to children from the White political commentator, entrepreneur,
the First Amendment and other which contrasts the iconic Dr. Seuss House. Now it looks like these books author, and talk show host.
constitutional protections. Let’s
hope that becomes a pattern as

Make Your Voice Heard

the justices roll out more deci-
sions before recessing in June.
Las Vegas Review-Journal
(March 8) Write The Dispatch: [email protected]
 The Dispatch • www.cdispatch.com THURSDAY, MARCH 11, 2021 5A

AREA OBITUARIES
COMMERCIAL DISPATCH
Sharon Cooper her children, Melinda Mrs. Oglesby was Pallbearers will be Memorial may be
OBITUARY POLICY Pimentel of Mariet- born July 21, 1940, in Ben Oglesby, Lane Mc- made to the Hope
Obituaries with basic informa- MACON — Sharon
tion including visitation and Taylor Cooper, 79, died ta, Georgia, Melanie Ocala, Florida, to the Clendon, Josh Crocker, Lodge at 1104 Ireland
service times, are provided March 8, 2021, at Nox- Dinsmore of Macon, late Charlie and Lode- Trace Kinard, Tyler Way, Birmingham, AL
free of charge. Extended ubee County Nursing Marisa Ward of Katy, an Scarbrough. She Fulgham, Brad and 35205-7001.
obituaries with a photograph, Texas and Mike Coo- was a graduate of St- Wayne Scarbrough,
Home.
detailed biographical informa-
Graveside services per of Macon; sister, urgis High School and Daniel and Heath Ray. Eva Minor
tion and other details families
Linda Taylor of Mesa, was formerly employed Memorials may be STARKVILLE —
may wish to include, are avail- will be at 11 a.m. Sat-
Arizona; eight grand- in retail, as owner of L made to St. Jude Hospi- Eva Mae Minor, 84,
able for a fee. Obituaries must urday, at Oddfellows
children; and eight & S Grocery and as a tal, 262 Danny Thomas died March 4, 2021.
be submitted through funeral Cemetery, with Andy seamstress. She was a
homes unless the deceased’s Pearson officiating. great-grandchildren. Place, Memphis, TN Graveside services
body has been donated to member of Friendship 38105. will be at 1 p.m. Friday,
Cockrell Funeral Home Baptist Church.
science. If the deceased’s
body was donated to science, of Macon is in charge Sallie Oglesby In addition to her
at Ebenezer Cemetery.
of arrangements. STURGIS — Sal- Lawrence Hill Visitation is from 1-6
the family must provide official parents, she was pre- p.m. today, at West
proof of death. Please submit Mrs. Cooper was lie Mae Scarbrough ceded in death by her STARKVILLE —
all obituaries on the form pro- born Oct. 28, 1941, to Oglesby, 80, died Lawrence “Larry” J. Memorial Chapel. West
siblings, Johnny Scar- Memorial Funeral
vided by The Commercial Dis- the late Lillian Faye March 8, 2021. brough, Wylie Scar- Hill, 83, died March 5,
patch. Free notices must be
Funeral services 2021. Home of Starkville is
Stroh Taylor and Verne brough, Sylvia Jean
submitted to the newspaper
will be at 11 a.m. No services are in charge of arrange-
no later than 3 p.m. the day L. “V.L.” Taylor. She and an infant brother.
Friday, at Friendship planned at this time. ments.
prior for publication Tuesday attended Noxubee She is survived by
through Friday; no later than 4 County Schools and Baptist Church, with her husband, Lavern Welch Funeral Home of
p.m. Saturday for the Sunday was formerly employed Junior Davis, Jeremy Oglesby; children, Starkville is in charge
edition; and no later than 7:30 McCory and Tri Nason of arrangements.
at Fun Fashion. She Jackie Nason, Benny
a.m. for the Monday edition.
Incomplete notices must be re-
was a member of First officiating. Burial will Oglesby and Marie Mr. Hill was a
ceived no later than 7:30 a.m. United Methodist follow at Craig Springs McClendon all of graduate of Mississippi
for the Monday through Friday Church. Cemetery. Visitation Sturgis; 10 grandchil- State University and
editions. Paid notices must be In addition to her will be one hour prior dren; siblings, Billy was formerly employed
finalized by 3 p.m. for inclusion parents, she was to services at the Scarbrough, Charles in the Engineering De-
the next day Monday through
preceded in death by church. Welch Funeral Scarbrough both of partment as Assistant
Thursday; and on Friday by 3
p.m. for Sunday and Monday her husband, Larry Home of Starkville is Starkville and Irene Dean at MSU.
publication. For more informa- Cooper. in charge of arrange- Ray of Sturgis; and 14 He is survived by his
tion, call 662-328-2471. She is survived by ments. great-grandchildren. sister, Linda Grott.
Helen Willis
Graveside Services:
Saturday, March 13 • 1 PM
Blaylock Cemetery
College St. Location

AP-NORC poll: 1 in 5 in US lost someone close in pandemic Henry Weiss

Graveside Services:
Thursday, March 11 • 11 AM
Friendship Cemetery
THE ASSOCIATED PRESS Associated Press-NORC tration at the continued hold a memorial. infected with the virus, 2nd Ave. N. Location
Center for Public Affairs struggle to stay safe. Parks, 60, said she re- down from about 4 in 10
WASHINGTON — Research illustrates how “We didn’t have a tired from her customer in recent months. Still, a Kathy Smith
About 1 in 5 Americans the stage is set for a two- chance to grieve. It’s al- service job last year in part majority are at least some- Private Memorial Services:
say they lost a relative or tiered recovery. The pub- most like it happened because of worry about what worried. Held at a Later Date.
close friend to the corona- lic’s worry about the virus yesterday for us. It’s still workplace exposure, and 2nd Ave. N. Location
“They’re letting their
virus, highlighting the di- has dropped to its lowest fresh,” said Nettie Parks now she is watching with
vision between heartache guard down and they
point since the fall, before of Volusia County, Flor- dread as more states and
and hope as the country the holidays brought sky- ida, whose only brother cities relax health rules. shouldn’t,” Parks said.
itches to get back to nor- rocketing cases into the died of COVID-19 last Only about 3 in 10 “People are going to have memorialgunterpeel.com
mal a year into the pan- new year. April. Because of travel Americans are very wor- to realize this thing is not
demic. But people still in restrictions, Parks and ried about themselves or going anywhere. It’s not
A new poll from The mourning express frus- her five sisters have yet to a family member being over.”

Marsha Westberry
Will the coronavirus ever go away? Marsha Ann (Bellomy)
Westberry, 71, of Columbus,
MS, passed away Saturday,
BY CHRISTINA LARSON Other viruses have fol- mutations cause more se- ready been sick or vacci- March 6, 2021, at St. Vincent’s
AP Science Writer lowed a similar path. vere disease or evade vac- nated. Birmingham (Alabama).
The 1918 flu pan- cines. The only virus that’s Visitation will be Friday,
WASHINGTON — demic could also offer It’s unlikely the virus ever been eradicated from March 12, from noon to 1 PM
Will the coronavirus ever clues about the course of will ever be completely the human population is at Lowndes Funeral Home,
go away? stamped out, given the smallpox. That’s because
COVID-19. Columbus, MS. Funeral service
No one knows for sure. possibility that people people develop lasting im-
The U.S. Centers for will be Friday, March 12, at 1
Scientists think the virus might be able to get re- munity to that virus after
that causes COVID-19
Disease Control and Pre- PM in the Lowndes Funeral
vention estimates that a infected after they’ve al- getting sick or vaccinated. Home Chapel with Rev. James Black officiating.
may be with us for de-
third of the world’s pop- A graveside service will be held Saturday, March

Thomas Stone
cades or longer, but that
doesn’t mean it will keep ulation became infected 13, at 2 PM at Liberty Cemetery in Scottsboro,
posing the same threat. with that virus, which AL.
The virus emerged in originated in birds. Even- Mrs. Westberry was born August 25, 1949, in
tually, after infected peo- Thomas Edward Stone, 68, Scottsboro, AL, to the late Catherine (Brandon)
late 2019 and it’s difficult
ple either died or devel- of Columbus, MS passed away and Warren Bellomy. She married Charles
to predict how it will be-
have over the long term. oped immunity, the virus Sunday, March 7, 2021, at Bap- Westberry on August 7, 1976, in Scottsboro,
But many experts believe stopped spreading quick- tist Memorial Hospital, GT. AL. After graduating from Jacksonville State
it’s likely the disease will ly. It later mutated into a A visitation will be Friday, University in Jacksonville, AL, she continued a
eventually ease from a cri- less virulent form, which March 12, 2021, from 10:00- lifelong interest in history and political science.
sis to a nuisance like the experts say continues to 11:00 AM at Lowndes Funeral She spent much of her 20s as an avid recreational
common cold. circulate seasonally. Home. A service will follow at tennis player and would spend many hours on the
That would happen as However, the emer- 11:00 AM in the Chapel with court each week. Later in life, hobbies included
people build up immunity gence of new COVID-19 Bro. David Coleman officiating. 5k races with her husband, Charles, throughout
over time, either through variants could complicate Interment will be in Mt. Vernon Cemetery, Co- Mississippi. She loved traveling with him for
infection or vaccination. the picture if future virus lumbus, MS with Lowndes Funeral Home direct- these races, with her favorite being on the coast
ing. in Pass Christian. Mrs. Westberry worked
Mr. Stone was born on September 27, 1952, several places during her career, including her
in Henderson, KY to the late Betty Cobb Stone all-time favorite job as an administrative assistant
and Thomas Edward Stone, Sr. He was a mem- at insurance adjusting company Moody and
ber of Mt. Vernon Church. Mr. Stone worked for Associates. In addition to her career, she also
Columbus Police Aux. and was known as Chief found joy in attending church. She was a member
Stone, he worked at Eurocopter as a Sr. Electrical of Covenant United Methodist Church.
Tech. and worked at Clark Vending as a service Mrs. Westberry absolutely loved every moment
tech. for many years. He was a member of Sons of spent with her two granddaughters, Avery and
the American Legion, The River Rats BBQ com- Sinclaire. One of her traditions was traveling to
petition cooking team. Mr. Stone loved going to Indiana in December to watch the girls in their
his grandson’s baseball games and anything they annual school Christmas program. She was a
were involved with and enjoyed playing cards huge animal lover and treasured her time with
with his buddies. her horses and beloved Balinese cat, Snow.
In addition to his parents, Mr. Stone is preced- Though not much of a television enthusiast, Mrs.
ed in death by his sisters, Martha Evans and Lisa Westberry spent many years enjoying late-night
Hall; and his step-mother, Joyce Stone. shows hosted by Jay Leno and Jimmy Fallon and
Mr. Stone is survived by his wife, Yvonne adored Leno’s recurring “Headlines” feature.
Bibee Stone of Columbus, MS; son, Shawn (Cal- Besides devoting much time to the Bible, books
lie) Stone of Columbus, MS; daughter, Kimberly on history and myriad other selections, she also
(Sam Latham) Knight of Evansville, IN; grand- loved fiction by Jan Karon and Fannie Flagg.
children, John Thomas “JT” Stone, Thaxton Mrs. Westberry is survived by her daughter,
Edward “Thax” Stone, Samuel McClue “Sam” Heather (Dominik) Fuhrmann of Georgetown,
Stone, Kendra Scott, Kevin Rutter and Kayla IN; and granddaughters, Avery and Sinclaire.
Roach; nine great-grandchildren; sisters, Bar- She was preceded in death by her husband,
bara Eichen, Charlotte Heid and Dena Martin; Charles Westberry; parents, Catherine
brother, Glenn Stone; step-brother, David Odom; (Brandon) and Warren Bellomy; and sister,
and a host of nieces and nephews. Kathy.
Pallbearers will be Stephen Sims, David Pallbearers will be Dominik Fuhrmann, Doug
Odom, John Allen, Jay Johnson, Bruce Shaw, Hodges, Mike Kirkland, Michael Kirkland, Jr.,
Richie Price, Glenn Baldwin and Blake Parker. Terry Sapp, Jim Sentell, Mike Soistman and
Honorary pallbearers will be Dr. John Griffin, Dwayne Wilkerson.
Dr. John Whitecar, Dr. Amber Borden, Dr. James Honorary pallbearers will be Dr. Noah
Woodard, Dr. Peter Tofts, Dr. John King, Staff of Fitzpatrick, Mike Logan and Andrew Sapp.
Kindred Home Health, Members of the Sons of Memorials may be made to The College
American Legion, Doug Hill, Kenny Sigafose, of Veterinary Medicine at Mississippi State
Ed Humphreys, Johnny McDill, Jerry Gibson, University, P.O. Box 6100, Mississippi State, MS
Claude Carter and Jim Parsons. 39762.
Memorials may be made to American Cancer Compliments of
Society 1380 Livingston Lane Jackson, MS 39213
or American Heart Association P.O. Box 16808
Lowndes Funeral Home
www.lowndesfuneralhome.net
Jackson, MS 39236.

Compliments of
Lowndes Funeral Home cdispatch.com
www.lowndesfuneralhome.net
6A THURSDAY, MARCH 11, 2021 The Dispatch • www.cdispatch.com

Highway 182
Continued from Page 1A
80 percent of the estimat- speak with any business ONLINE lane with medians stretch-
ed $12.66 million project owners or citizens who n PRESENTATION: See video ing from Mississippi State
aiming to draw economic had questions as they fil- presentation of design plans at University east of town to
development and increase tered through. https://youtu.be/Y5RtJELOAy4 the Walmart on the west
n RENDERINGS: See Highway
pedestrian access along The design adds land- 182 renderings at cdispatch. edge of the city. There, in
the corridor. scaped medians with com many cases, traffic must
Mayor Lynn Spruill regular breaks between use turnarounds at inter-
said the project’s main Long and North Jackson said, conveys the goal of sections to access busi-
goal is to streets, as well as two revitalization. nesses on the opposite
convert a more between North “We’re creating a new side of the street.
“blighted Montgomery and Old life, a new identity for “I make no apologies
area” to a West Point Road, which 182,” Bailey said. for Highway 12,” Spruill
place that will nullify the now wide told The Dispatch, noting
ties well open turning lane. Public feedback the medians had dropped
with the Decorative concrete Rick Welch arrived just accident rates there by 30
city’s “down- will grace each intersec- before 4 p.m. to view the percent.
town core.” Spruill tion and a 12-foot walk- plans. For about 15 min- She then addressed
“All of ing/biking path will flank utes before several more similarities the medians
that area is each side of the highway citizens arrived, he had present with the planned
ripe for rede- along the route and a Spruill all to himself and 182 revitalization.
velopment,” designated urban green peppered her with ques- “I don’t see it as re-
Spruill said. space near North Jackson tions. stricting access,” Spruill
“It has so Street. Welch has owned said. “I see it as a reorga-
much po- The median in front of Rick’s Cafe for 27 years nization of access. There
tential, and Henderson Ward Stewart and said he has “advocat- certainly won’t be wall-to-
we want to Kemp Elementary will break ed for fixing this area” for wall entry points.
realize that into a short left turn lane that entire time. What he “It will be a vast im-
potential. … Now, people at the traffic light to en- saw Wednesday both ex- provement from what’s
are just simply passing ter the campus, and a cited and concerned him. out there now,” she added.
through there. We want protected circle-drive for His sign, for one, is in
them to stop and engage.” pickup and drop-off will the Mississippi Depart-
Design plans, which be installed in front of the ment of Transportation
City Engineer Edward school. right-of-way, which means
Kemp said were rough- Street side parking he will have to move it.
spots will run between The plan also significant-
ly 65-percent complete,
School and North Jackson ly changes ease of access
must obtain MDOT and
streets on both sides, ac- to his business from the
federal approval by Au-
cording to the rendering. road.
gust.
Spruill said, beyond “I’m going to lose a
From there, most
economic development, turn lane, which is not ide-
above-ground infrastruc-
the city hopes to improve al, but I feel like my cus-
ture — mostly utilities
the area’s aesthetics, slow tomers will get used to it
and communications —
down traffic and empha- over time,” Welch said. “I
will move underground.
size pedestrian access. hope it does increase foot
Spruill said starting
“We’ve been trying to traffic, but we’ll have to
construction in 2022 could enhance our profile as a wait and see.
see it complete by 2024. pedestrian-friendly and “Overall, this project
bike-friendly community,” is going to make the cor-
The design Spruill said. “This project ridor look a lot better,” he
A rendering that will provide a big piece of added.
stretched nearly the that.” Several people who
length of the conference Clark Bailey, a design- viewed the design also
room showed the pro- er with Kimley Horn, said saw the planned medians
posed changes to the better timing at traffic and immediately drew
roughly mile stretch of lights should keep traffic comparisons to a recent-
182, as members of the flow through the corridor ly completed project on
Kimley Horn team that roughly the same as it is Highway 12, which elim-
designed it stood by to now. But the design, he inated the open turning

CFR
Continued from Page 1A
for the public, CFR Chief freeze as a cost-saving which will house the de-
Martin Andrews said. measure, Gavin said. But partment’s entire admin-
The fire and life safety earlier this month, the istrative staff.
educator is in charge of city council unanimously Andrews said the po-
working with the public approved Andrews and sition does not necessar-
on fire and public safe- Human Resources Direc- ily have to be filled by a
ty initiatives, Andrews tor Pat Mitchell to begin firefighter, since the safe-
said. The duties range the process of advertis- ty educator’s duties are
from visiting schools, ing for the position again. primarily administrative
businesses and nursing It’s a position that’s and training. However, he
homes to teach people sorely needed in the com- said, that doesn’t mean it
about fire safety — or munity, Andrews said. wouldn’t be filled by a
conduct fire extinguish- While some of the du- firefighter.
er or alarm checks — to ties — in particular train-
“We have opened it up
working with the Red ing other CFR firefight-
to outside people and ed-
Cross and other non- ers — have been handled
ucators, school teachers,
profits to find temporary by other training officials
shelter or other relief in the department, the ex-firefighters or people
for individuals who lose public relations side of that have a knowledge of
their homes to a fire. The the job has been lacking, fire work mechanisms,”
person also hosts CPR with fewer school visits he said. “It’s really just
classes for the public and and training initiatives no one particular that is
area first responders and for individuals. geared at (the position).”
works closely with the Some of that is be- He added CFR is will-
training officer to make cause of the COVID-19 ing to give the right per-
sure the department’s pandemic, which has lim- son for the position the
firefighters know how to ited department officials’ training they need to do
install car seats, another ability to visit schools, the job.
of the department’s du- nursing homes and oth- “One of the main
ties. er facilities where they things is being adaptable
“It’s so many things would normally conduct to the public, being able
that they do, not just for fire safety training, An- to speak in front of the
the community at large,” drews said. camera, and also being
Andrews said. As the pandemic ends, able to teach and to know
The safety educator is Andrews said, CFR will the background …,” he
also in charge of making be able to open its facili- said. “A lot of people may
public statements about ties back up to CPR train- not have that experience,
fire safety during emer- ing and other safety ini- and we’re willing to get
gencies, such as severely tiatives for the public. them the classes that it
cold weather when CFR “Once it’s safe and takes to become the fire
officials are out remind- COVID is declared over and life safety educator.”
ing people how to avoid and we can safely do it, The position pays
fires caused by electric sure,” he said. “Not only
about $43,000 and begins
heaters and ovens that that, but our public fire
advertising today, An-
people sometimes use to and life safety educator
drews and Mitchell said.
keep their homes warm will be able to go back to
when they want to save the normal duties of go- “This is a position
on electricity, Vice Mayor ing out to schools, going that is really needed in
Bill Gavin said. out to day cares, going the fire department,”
“It’s a job that really out to nursing homes and Andrews said. “It’s a po-
requires a person going whatever may be needed sition that brings a lot of
out ... to inform the public in the public.” validation to Columbus
on what to do in emergen- The safety educator’s Fire and Rescue, what we
cy situations and who to hiring will also coincide do and how we do it, and
contact,” Gavin said. with the opening of Fire to continually teach the
After Colom departed Station 4 on Airline Road, public and continually
CFR, the position was which CFR is expected put things out so that the
deliberately left unfilled to have ready within the public can stay safe as a
during a city-wide hiring next couple of weeks and whole.”

Embezzlement
Continued from Page 1A
and finding several irreg- investigation, but said the press time.
ularities, Shelton said. He crime happened within Williston has been
declined to answer ques- the last year. released from Lowndes
tions about how much Lowe’s corporate office County Adult Detention
money Williston allegedly did not answer an email or Center after posting
took, citing the ongoing call from The Dispatch by $5,000 bond.
Sports
MISSISSIPPI STATE BASEBALL
SPORTS LINE
662-241-5000
THE DISPATCH n CDISPATCH.COM n THURSDAY, MARCH 11, 2021
B
SECTION

Harding dazzles again as No. 3 MSU outlasts Louisiana

BY BEN PORTNOY nity arises, I don’t like to pitches. Harding’s eight
[email protected] miss.” strikeouts ran his two-
Following MSU’s Sat- game total to 17 over 10
STARK VILLE — urday loss to Kent State, innings pitched.
Starting pitching prob- head coach Chris Lemo- Mixing his offspeed
lems be damned. nis revealed his concern stuff with a high-80s
After ringing up nine over No. 2 starter Eric to low-90s fastball, he’s
batters in a five-inning Cerantola’s inability to now tossed at least five
outing against Southern locate. Incumbent Fri- innings in two of his
Mississippi last week, day starter Christian three starts this spring.
Mississippi State mid- MacLeod’s 1.2-inning Harding also currently
week ace Houston Hard- outing against the Gold- sits as the team’s in-
ing dialed up another en Flashes the day be- nings pitched leader
devastating night on fore didn’t offer any fur- at 15.1, just a smidge
the mound Wednesday ther confidence. ahead of Sunday starter
as the Bulldogs (10 -3) But for as much as Jackson Fristoe.
downed Louisiana (9-5) MSU’s top dogs have “He’s been giving us
4-0. struggled, Harding has some really competitive
“We go out and we been as efficient a cus- starts lately,” Lemonis
plan and prepare every tomer as the Bulldogs said. “It’s fun to play be-
week for that opportuni- have had off the bump. hind him when he pitch- Mississippi State athletics
ty,” Harding explained. Wednesday he found es.” Mississippi State starter Houston Harding struck out eight in five innings as the
“And when that opportu- the zone on 47 of his 67 See BASEBALL, 3B Bulldogs downed Louisiana 4-0 Tuesday in Starkville.

Williams MISSISSIPPI STATE MEN’S BASKETBALL

strikes out
10 as
MSU softball
Mississippi State hoping for redemption against
shuts out
Memphis to
Kentucky in first round of SEC tournament
head into
SEC play
BY THEO DEROSA
[email protected]

STARK VILLE —
Montana Davidson bob-
bled the softball just a
little as she scooped up
the grounder and fired
it across the diamond to
first base.
The slight delay was
all it took for Mem-
phis pinch-hitter Tay-
lor Broddick to reach
base with two out in
the seventh inning of
Wednesday’s game at
Nusz Park. Instead of
recording the final out,
the Mississippi State
senior third baseman
was assessed an error
— the Bulldogs’ first of
the ballgame.
After a walk, Gracie
Morton flied out to left
field on the first pitch,
See SOFTBALL, 3B

No fans?
Some? A mix? Julie Bennett/USA TODAY Sports
Odd sights, Mississippi State Bulldogs forward Tolu Smith (35) shoots over Auburn Tigers forward Chris Moore (5) during the second half between the
Auburn Tigers and the Mississippi State Bulldogs at Auburn Arena.
sounds of BY GARRICK HODGE University of Kentucky,” MSU contest, the Bulldogs built a the majority of those in atten-
pandemic [email protected] coach Ben Howland said. double-digit lead, Calipari was dance at Bridgestone Arena will
sports STARK VILLE — So what
“Who wouldn’t be? They get
to play in the SEC tournament,
ejected after receiving a dou-
ble tech, and the stage was set
be pulling for the Wildcats.
“There will be a lot of Ken-
THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
does Mississippi State have to which is a whole new season.” for an upset. But turnovers, tucky folk there and that will
do to extend its season? The good news is, this missed free throws, and poor be our mindset,” Howland said.
Sports amid the pan- Not much. Just beat Ken- year’s version of MSU’s big- late game execution prevented “We are playing a road game,
demic became a whole tucky for the first time since gest boogeyman is as vulnera- the Bulldogs from a monumen- not just a game in the SEC Tour-
different sort of spec- 2009. Take down a team that ble as it’s ever been. Like MSU, tal win, eventually falling 78- nament. Those people travel
tacle, especially when has won 15 straight contests Kentucky’s only hope of reach- 73 in double overtime. and they show up.”
it came to spectators — over the Bulldogs. Knock off ing the NCA A tournament is Both teams are playing rel- Matchup with Kentucky
often with zero, some- a team that is so confident winning the conference tour- atively at the same level in re- aside, Thursday will be a histor-
times with some and, it will secure a win over the nament. Normally a lock for a cent weeks, as both MSU and ic day in its own right, marking
in at least one instance Bulldogs, the team’s website double-bye in the SEC’s mar- Kentucky have won three of nearly a one-year anniversary of
at a Grand Slam tennis already has a potential Friday quee event, the Wildcats (9-15, their last five games. the cancellation of the SEC tour-
tournament, starting a rematch with Alabama firmly 8-9) have fallen on hard times “They’re playing faster nament due to COVID-19. While
match with fans in the listed on its schedule (which and enter the tournament as now,” Howland said. “They’re Howland still holds on to regrets
seats yet finishing it may just be a humorous over- an eight seed. If Kentucky really pushing the ball hard of not being able to finish what
with none present. sight from the Kentucky com- doesn’t hoist the conference’s in transition and really trying he started with last year’s team,
Screams and chants, munications staff, but it’s there trophy, it will miss out on hear- to get easy shots. And they’re participating in a tournament
applause and dancing, nevertheless). ing its name called on Selec- playing their best basketball this time around will be a much
cheering and jeering by So yeah, no pressure. tion Sunday for the first time here late in the season ... We welcome change.
tens of thousands in the The Bulldogs (14-13, since 2013. know the history of the SEC “I’d like to turn the clock
stands were so custom- 8-10 SEC) will try to fire the “We’re in the same boat Tournament and the history of back one year and give our team
ary and unremarkable 800-pound gorilla firmly im- (Kentucky) is,” Howland said Kentucky basketball are very last year a chance to play in the
at the various athletic planted on their back into the of both team’s chances of earn- much hand-in-hand. So we’re SEC Tournament. It’s amazing
endeavors in the Before sun by knocking off Kentucky ing an at-large selection. “I going to have to play incredi- how fast this year has gone by
Times that they tended for the first time in more than know it is a whole new season bly well to have success.” and this is where we were a year
to recede into the back- a decade, and in turn, extend and teams are starting over. The SEC announced no more ago. We were a double-bye go-
ground as not much their season at least one more We’re going to bring our very than 3,400 fans will be allowed ing into last year’s tournament
more than white noise. day. MSU starts the postsea- best effort we can give here to attend a tournament game, and didn’t have a chance to com-
Over the past year, son with a contest against Ken- Thursday morning and I know but considering MSU limited pete at all.
though, thanks to the tucky in the No. 8-9 matchup they will, too.” its home attendance to no more “So we are grateful to have a
contagiousness and in the first round of the sin- Of course, MSU knows than 1,000 spectators for the chance to compete this year. It’s
dangers of the corona- gle-elimination SEC tourna- how beatable Kentucky is majority of the year, Thursday’s been absolutely phenomenal to
virus, such sights and ment at 11 a.m. Thursday in first hand, having chance af- contest may feature the most play this season.”
sounds were replaced Nashville. ter chance to take Kentucky fans the Bulldogs have played in If MSU beats Kentucky, it
at cavernous venues by “I think our guys will be for the first time in the John front of all year. If past Nashville will face No. 1 seed Alabama
See FANS, 3B excited to play against the Calipari era on Jan. 2. In that experiences are any indication, at noon Friday in Nashville.
2B THURSDAY, MARCH 11, 2021 The Dispatch • www.cdispatch.com

‘Healthy’ Prescott signs richest contract in Cowboys history

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS right ankle against the of $75 million. There is a NFL Offensive Rookie of slight doubt in my mind Those numbers plum-
New York Giants on Oct. no-trade clause, and the the Year while leading the that I wouldn’t wear the meted as Dallas lost its
Dak Prescott walked 11. Cowboys can’t use the Cowboys to the No. 1 seed star for the rest of my first four games without
briskly and bounced up “I thought about jog- franchise tag after the in the NFC, and two years life.” Prescott, falling to 2-7 on
the couple of steps onto ging out here and jump- contract. This agreement later won his first playoff Jones never wavered the way to a 6 -10 finish.
the stage for the an- ing up on the stage,” said came a day before a dead- game while reaching his in saying he considered With the big contract,
nouncement of the rich- Prescott, who broke into a line for the Cowboys to second Pro Bowl. Prescott a franchise Prescott becomes the
est contract in the storied wild smile while crossing place the tag on Prescott Negotiations on a new quarterback, but ac- focal point of ending by
history of the Dallas Cow- the stage at team head- for a second consecutive contract started the fol- knowledged the drawn- far the longest stretch in
boys for their latest star quarters in Frisco, north season. lowing offseason, when out negotiations created franchise history with-
quarterback. of Dallas. “But I don’t Most importantly for Prescott was going into debate that took on “a life out reaching a Super
It was five months al- know if you all are ready the Cowboys as they the final year of a four- of its own” over whether Bowl — more than twice
most to the day Wednes- for that. But I’m healthy.” try to end a 25-year run year deal that paid him a the Cowboys believed in as long as the 10 years it
day since the gruesome Prescott wouldn’t put without even reaching total of about $4 million as the former Mississippi took Dallas to go from
ankle injury that ended a timeline on when he the NFC championship a fourth-round pick. That State standout for the an expansion team to its
Prescott’s 2020 season would be fully cleared, game, Prescott’s salary included $2 million in the long term. first Super Bowl appear-
and led to immediate but said, “I’ll be ready cap hit will be $22.2 mil- final season. “Don’t confuse that ance during the 1970
questions whether the big when it matters.” lion instead of $37.7 mil- Prescott’s abbreviat- with how right we think season.
payday would ever come For now, Prescott was lion under the tag. Dallas ed 2020 season was on a this decision is, and how Since going 13-3 as a
after a long stalemate. basking in the hourlong needs help on defense $31.4 million franchise right and how much it’s rookie, Prescott’s regu-
The answer came two news conference that and now has some money tag, and playing on a sec- been there from the very lar-season record is 29-
days earlier when the served as a celebration to spend. ond tag would have sig- beginning,” Jones said. 24. And he will be trying
sides — two years after of the fourth $100 million “I feel great about nificantly increased the “This fits what I and to end a two-year run
they started talking — contract in club history. our future,” owner Jerry chance of the 27-year-old what I want our Cowboy of missing the playoffs,
agreed on a $160 million, The first was quarterback Jones said. “I don’t mind QB leaving in free agency fans to think about when which last happened to
four-year contract with Tony Romo, whose back telling you the main rea- next year. we think about the Dal- the Cowboys in 2013.
the NFL’s second-highest injury in the 2016 presea- son I feel great is the guy “Never in a million las Cowboys.” “Eagerness, excite-
annual average behind son opened the door for sitting right next door to years did I imagine not Even before Prescott’s ment, anxiousness, to
Kansas City star Patrick Prescott to be the starter me.” being a Cowboy once I injury, the Cowboys give this organization
Mahomes. from the first game of his Before the injury, put on this uniform and started slowly in coach and the Jones family
Now Prescott is ready rookie year. Prescott had started put on this star,” Prescott Mike McCarthy’s first everything they invest-
to answer the questions Prescott’s contract in- every game since the said. “So through it all, season. But Prescott was ed in,” Prescott said.
about coming back from cluded NFL records with beginning of his rookie through the two years still leading the NFL in “That’s a Super Bowl,
the compound fracture a $66 million signing bo- year after Romo got hurt. I guess you can say or yards passing for the and that’s to go win.”
and dislocation of his nus and a first-year value Prescott was the 2016 more, there was never a league’s No. 1 offense.

Shirts or skins? Teams need only 5 to be eligible for NCAAs

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS as long as a team has five their stay in Indiana. Play- placed if they get sick, and chairman Mitch Barnhart, games. We put another
healthy players, it’s good to ers and coaches will be sub- their scheduled opponents the athletic director at Ken- component on our moni-
All a team needs to play go. And if that team’s coach- ject to frequent virus test- would simply move on in tucky, said he was encour- toring sheet to take into
in this year’s NCAA Tour- ing staff gets decimated by ing and contact tracing. To the bracket. aged by the fact that all but account this unique circum-
nament is five healthy play- the coronavirus? augment that effort, when But Gavitt acknowl- six of the top 100 ranked stance.”
ers. How about a coach? “Honestly, it’s probably they’re at practice and in edged that as long as a teams had played at least Even with all the uncer-
The NCAA will get back to something we should talk games, players will wear team has five players, it can 20 games this season. But tainty, undefeated Gonzaga
you on that. about as a committee,” he devices that track their lo- stick around for as long as it he also acknowledged that all but assured itself of the
The fluid nature of a said. cation and can keep track of keeps winning. very few teams’ seasons overall top seed with its
March Madness played
For months, the NCAA people they’ve been in close “We decided if they had have been “normal.” come-from-behind victory
amid the coronavirus pan-
has been laying out pro- proximity with — helpful if five players eligible and Just one example: Mich- over BYU in the West Coast
demic was spelled out
tocols to ensure the tour- one of those close contacts healthy,” they could play, igan heads into the Big Conference final Tuesday
Wednesday, hours before
the NCAA selection com- nament will go off in tests positive. he said. “We wrestled with Ten Tournament as the night.
mittee began meeting to somewhat normal-look- Two weeks ago, the contingencies, and thought regular-season champion Michigan, Baylor and
hash out a 68-team bracket ing fashion. The biggest NCAA released its policy it was fairest for a team that despite having fewer wins Illinois appear to have the
that could remain in flux up change is that all 68 teams about how and when teams earned its way, that even if than an Illinois team that inside track on the other
until the games tip off next will descend on Indianapo- that make the tournament it was compromised, they played more games. Mich- No. 1 seeds, while Duke
week. lis next week, and all games might be replaced if they’re should have the opportu- igan didn’t play over a 22- and Kentucky head a lon-
In explaining a number over 19 days will be played struck by the virus. The nity to play rather than be day stretch in January and ger-than-usual list of blue-
of contingencies that could in and around the city. bracket comes out during replaced.” February. blood programs that strug-
come into play if teams Players will have their the usual reveal, on Sun- The task of construct- “We’re looking at player gled this season and need
are exposed to COVID-19, own rooms and teams will day evening. After 6 p.m. ing the bracket also has availability,” Barnhart said. to win their conference
NCAA senior VP of bas- have their own floors at des- Tuesday, teams that make been greatly altered by “We’re looking at who’s tournaments this week to
ketball Dan Gavitt said that ignated hotels throughout the field cannot be re- the pandemic. Committee played games and missed make March Madness.
 The Dispatch • www.cdispatch.com THURSDAY, MARCH 11, 2021 3B

Pippen Jr., Vanderbilt beat Texas A&M 79-68 in SEC tourney

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS win in four years. and the Commodores’ (8-10) with 22 points on a 15-3 run that made it and outscored the Ag-
No. 12 seed Vander- first since beating Texas 11-of-16 shooting and 17-7 and his three-point gies 21-7 from the foul
NASHVILLE, Tenn. bilt (8-15) snapped a A&M 66 -41 in 2017. grabbed nine rebounds. play with 16:17 to play line, play fifth-seeded
— Scotty Pippen Jr. went four-game skid against Pippen, a first-team The rest of the Aggies gave the Commodores Florida in Thursday’s
15 for 15 from the free- the Aggies although all-SEC selection, shot combined to make 16 of a 45-32 lead. Texas second round.
throw line and finished the teams didn’t play in just 3-of-17 from the 50 from the field. A&M scored the next 13 Pippen’s dad, six-time
with 22 points, D.J. Har- the regular season after field but tied his career Pippen, a 6 -foot- points to tie it about four NBA champion Scottie
vey scored 17 and Van- both scheduled match- high for free throws 3 sophomore, hit a minutes later. But Myles Pippen, was in atten-
derbilt beat Texas A&M ups were canceled due made and added six as- 3-pointer, made a pair Stute answered with a 3 dance. Bridgestone Are-
79-68 on Wednesday to COVID-19 concerns. sists, four rebounds and of free throws and then and Vanderbilt led the na was limited to 20%
night for the Commo- Second-year coach Jerry three steals. took a steal near mid- rest of the way. capacity (3,400) due to
dores first Southeastern Stackhouse got his first Emanuel Miller led court for a dunk in a The Commodores, local COVID-19 restric-
Conference tournament conference tourney win No. 13 seed Texas A&M 77-second span to spark who hit 12 3-pointers tions.

Softball
Continued from Page 1B
sealing a 5-0 win over “We’re ready for that.”
Memphis (1-12) for Mis- Senior ace Emily Wil-
sissippi State (15-5) and liams certainly showed
rendering Davidson’s Wednesday that she’s
slight misplay insignif- prepared for the grind
icant. Even so, it was of SEC play. Williams
another reminder that struck out 10 Tigers in
the Bulldogs have yet six scoreless innings,
to play a pristine game mixing speeds and miss-
this season — but that ing barrels. Her ER A
they’re perfectly capa- is down to 1.47 on the
ble of winning softball season, showing con-
games regardless. siderable improvement
“When we’re looking after she allowed seven
at playing a complete runs in 4.1 innings in
game with our best the Bulldogs’ Feb. 13
pitching, offense, de- season opener against
fense and baserunning, Miami (Ohio).
I don’t know if we’ve put “It’s good to see
it all together yet,” head E-Dub out there attack-
coach Samantha Rick- ing the zone,” Ricketts
etts said. “And we’ve said. “I think they were
still found a way to go really trying to attack
15-5 through the first our defense. She didn’t
20.” even give them an op-
Ricketts and the Bull- portunity.” Mississippi State athletics

dogs know they’ll have Memphis recorded Mississippi State pitcher Emily Williams struck out 10 batters in six scoreless innings as the Bulldogs beat
Memphis 5-0 on Wednesday at Nusz Park. Williams lowered her season ERA to 1.47, pitching efficiently since
to step it up when South- three hits against Wil- being tagged for seven runs in 4.1 innings in the team’s Feb. 13 season opener.
eastern Conference liams: a double in the
play begins Saturday at first inning, a triple still pounded out nine run. The next two came Sophomore Aspen with all three games
Ole Miss. The nation’s in the third and an in- hits Wednesday. Senior home in the fourth when Wesley took over the broadcasted on the SEC
premier softball confer- field single in the sixth. catcher Mia Davidson fifth-year senior out- circle in the seventh in- Network.
ence features 10 ranked Each time, the Bulldogs
and sophomore second fielder Christian Quinn ning, working around Williams said open-
teams, including six in pitcher finished out the
baseman Paige Cook led beat out an infield sin- Davidson’s error and a ing SEC play against the
a row from Nos. 17-22. inning without allowing
Mississippi State isn’t another baserunner, let the way with two apiece. gle and the throw sailed subsequent walk to pre- team’s biggest in-state
among the top 25; the alone a run. “I felt like all of our down the first-base line, serve the shutout. rival won’t change how
Bulldogs’ schedule fea- “I just tried to get a lot batters all around did a clearing the bases and It was the seventh the Bulldogs prepare to
tures six SEC opponents of soft contact and come really good job just see- putting Quinn on third. straight win for the attack their first confer-
who are. right back after giving ing the ball and hitting In the sixth, junior Bulldogs, keeping the ence series of the sea-
“We’re ready to go, up some hits,” Williams their pitching,” Cook outfielder Anna Kate momentum alive in the son, but it ups the reward
and we’re just finally said. said. Segars doubled home a third-base dugout as should Mississippi State
ready to be out there While the Bulldogs Senior designated run and Montana David- Mississippi State pre- come out on top.
competing in the con- missed plenty of op- player Carter Spexarth son poked a single into pares for this weekend’s “I think we just treat it
ference with how tough portunities on offense lashed a double to center right to score another as trip to Oxford. The se- just like every other SEC
it’s going to be week af- with 12 runners left on field to score Mia David- the Bulldogs went up by ries will be played Sat- game,” she said. “It’s just
ter week,” Ricketts said. base, Mississippi State son for the game’s first five. urday through Monday more fun to win.”

Baseball
Continued from Page 1B
Behind Harding, ju- in the eighth inning, but it remains to be Miss and Louisiana, Le- also now rung up an ab- back from what Lemo-
nior Preston Johnson Sims has now struck out seen how much he can monis has been reticent surd 27 of the 42 hitters nis called soreness in
notched his second dy- 25 of the 37 batters he’s be counted on through to move Harding out who’ve stepped into the his neck and still likely
namic relief effort of the faced — good for an av- a full SEC slate. of his current slot, but box opposite him. a few weeks away from
year. A fter striking out erage of roughly two Enter Wednesday’s he didn’t rule it out fol- “When I stepped full strength, it’s con-
all six batters he faced strikeouts per inning. trio. lowing the win over the foot on campus this fall
ceivable the Bulldogs
in last week’s win over Just two weeks away Slated for a midweek Ragin’ Cajuns. I was worried I might
could shake things up if
Southern Miss, Johnson from the start of South- role a season ago that’s Johnson, by contrast, not touch the field, I’ve
fooled a Ragin’ Cajuns eastern Conference bled into this spring, missed the first week of got to be honest,” Hard- MacLeod and Cerantola
lineup that boasted five play, the MSU week- Harding allowed just the season due to undis- ing quipped of MSU’s are ineffective against
players batting .333 or end rotation remains a two runs in 5.2 innings closed reasons, but has depth, “’cause we have Eastern Michigan this
better heading into the work in progress. Both in a win over then-No. looked the part of a re- so many guys that can coming weekend.
night. Running his fast- MacLeod and Ceranto- 4 Texas Tech last year liable reliever come the run out there. I can Harding and Sims
ball into the mid-90s, la have been average at in Biloxi. He was sim- SEC portion of MSU’s think of 10 off the top have looked the part
Johnson surrendered best, combining for a ilarly effective in his schedule having struck of my head that can hit of legitimate weekend
just one hit in two in- 7.30 ER A in 14 innings surprise start against out 10 of the 15 batters 95 -plus (miles per hour) arm material if needed,
nings pitched while pitched, while neither then-No. 10 TCU in the he’s faced in four in- and when you combine while Johnson should
striking out four. has pitched more than season-opening State nings of work. that with the great
prove a reliable reliev-
Second-year fresh- four innings this sea- Farm College Baseball And then there’s called game that (pitch-
er down the stretch.
man Landon Sims also son. Showdown. Sims. Averaging nearly ing coach Scott Foxhall)
added another absurd Fristoe was electric Faced with a mid- two strikeouts per in- does, I mean it’s so hard Wednesday, though,
chapter to his increas- in his perfect six in- week slate that includes ning this year, his ER A to hit against us.” they combined to give
ingly impressive sea- nings Sunday against perennial NCA A tour- dipped to 0.84 after his With second-year MSU its third consecu-
son. Ringing up all Kent State and has im- nament teams South- two innings of relief freshman Will Bed- tive shutout for the first
three batters he faced proved with each start, ern, Samford, Southern Wednesday. Sims has nar continuing to work time since 1976.

Fans
Continued from Page 1B
the echoes of a bounc- vision ratings across do see (them). I’m look- on whether they’ll be at about 2,000. illustrated than at the
ing ball or the squeaks the landscape, even for ing forward to it.” able to open their gates “There were some Australian Open, the
of sneakers or “Did he a juggernaut such as Athletes in individ- April 1, MLB’s opening fans heckling, which first Grand Slam tennis
really say that?” chatter the Super Bowl, seemed ual sports, so accus- day. Nearly every other was awesome,” Cur- tournament in a year to
among players, coaches to indicate not. tomed to being fueled baseball team already ry said. “And me and let in more than 1,000
and officials that sud- “It was very weird by on-site energy and has the go-ahead to al- (teammate) Draymond spectators daily.
denly was audible. at first, when the sea- support, needed to low some fans. (Green) were talking A COVID-19 out-
And, truly, the entire son started, and like adapt and rely on their That’s part of a about it. There’s no bet- break in Melbourne
essence of sports as we everything else, you inner voices. trend as vaccine distri- ter feeling, I don’t care — well, what amount-
know them changed in kind of got used to it. T V viewers couldn’t bution increases and if it’s 19,000 or 2,500 or ed to an “outbreak”
subtle, if fundamental, Which is not a good always tell the differ- COVID-19 cases and fa- whatever it is: You love in Australia, about a
ways during the past thing,” said Will Harris, ence between what talities decrease. silencing a road crowd.” dozen cases — led to a
12 months because of a relief pitcher for the was real and what was Many, although not Washington Wizards five-day lockdown that
restrictions on crowds. Washington Nationals, artifice. Broadcasters all, arenas are letting coach Scott Brooks said began in Week 1 of the
For those who were who like all teams in tried to keep viewers smaller-than-usual au- it’s hard to even notice two-week event; com-
no longer able to en- Major League Base- engaged and, ultimate- diences return for NBA when there are such
petition continued, but
joy being right there, ball, played every reg- ly, hoped to accomplish or NHL games. The sparse gatherings.
spectators were barred.
of course — how many ular-season game of a what so many of us en- NFL season culminated “But it’s better than
Because the ban took
kids missed out on shortened 2020 season deavored to do in so with about 22,000 peo- no fans. It’s baby steps,”
a chance to witness with zero spectators many ways ever since ple — roughly a third of he said. “Hopefully effect at midnight, and
a game firsthand for (the postseason “bub- the NBA began the pro- stadium capacity — at we can get everything No. 1 Novak Djokovic
the first time? — but bles” allowed limited cess of halting sports last month’s Super Bowl under control, and we happened to be play-
also for those viewing crowds). on March 11, 2020: pre- in Florida. can move forward as a ing a match right then,
from afar and even for “To be honest, it’ll tend all was normal. Two weeks ago, when league, as a country, his contest was halted
the participants them- probably be a little Telecasts featured New York City’s Madi- and get back to being for 10 minutes in the
selves. weird when the fans cardboard cutouts or son Square Garden first somewhat normal.” fourth set while ushers
If a contest happens are back in the stands, video images of fans. allowed folks back for All in all, it’s been a cleared disappointed
without anyone delight- because a lot of us have Fake sounds simulated Knicks games, Gold- time of uneasiness, un- and booing fans out of
ing in the athleticism or kind of gotten used to clapping or yelling. en State Warriors star certainty and — as with Rod Laver Arena.
praising and booing the it being the way that it Sometimes it worked. Stephen Curry got an other aspects of our So, no one was there
athletes and the out- was last year,” Harris Sometimes it didn’t. immediate reminder of day-to-day lives for the to see, celebrate or con-
comes, does the whole said. “The adrenaline Harris’ Nationals are how different the sights past 12 months — the gratulate when Djokov-
undertaking matter as might be a little higher still awaiting word from and sounds are, even utter unknown. ic wrapped up his victo-
much? Decreased tele- than normal when we the city government with attendance capped Never was that better ry about an hour later.
4B THURSDAY, MARCH 11, 2021 The Dispatch • www.cdispatch.com

Embiid emerges as NBA MVP front-runner for East-best 76ers

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS “The fans are always the Eastern Conference, team that can give Brook- left hints there was so since Iverson in 2001.
there for me when I play,” he’s at last blossomed into lyn a run out of the East. much untapped potential Moses Malone (1982-83),
PHILADELPHIA — Embiid said. “I play for the durable, mature and The Sixers have not won in his about 7-foot frame. Julius Erving (1980-81)
Joel Embiid sank a step- the fans, I play for the city. downright dominant force the NBA championship His 30.2 points are be- and Wilt Chamberlain
back jumper in the final All my goals when I play the Sixers expected when since 1983. hind only Washington’s (who won three straight
minute of the best game of basketball are related to they made him the No. 3 “It’s nice to have a big Bradley Beal and about from 1965-1968) all won
his NBA career, ran back the city of Philadelphia. I pick of the 2014 draft. guy in the MVP talk,” 2½ points higher than the NBA’s top honor.
with his arms raised high feel like they’re here for “I just want to destroy Hall of Famer Shaquille his previous career best. — Embiid’s 13 career
over his head as piped-in us even when they’re not. everything in my path,” O’Neal told The Associ- Embiid has five games 40-10 games tie him with
“M-V-P!” “M-V-P!” chants I always feel their pres- Embiid said. ated Press. “You have to of 40-plus points and Charles Barkley for sec-
blared through the are- ence.” Let’s not raise a “Mis- take a high-percentage 10-plus rebounds in 30
ond-most in team history,
na and beckoned with Guess what, Joel: Six- sion Accomplished” ban- shot and take advantage games — the rest of the
behind Chamberlain (31).
his hands for imaginary ers fans are allowed back ner quite yet in the Wells of your opponent. He’s NBA players combined
fans — for sure, the Phil- — He leads the NBA
in the building on Sunday, Fargo Center rafters. finally playing like that. hit that mark only four
adelphia 76ers’ fanatics in total free throws made
and if they are among the But what Embiid has This is how you play. You times — highlighted by
watching at home — to lucky 3,100 to snag a tick- done through the All-Star want to be good, you want that 50-point, 17-board (298), free throws made
get loud. et — lower-center tickets break has made him the to be great or you want to game on Feb. 17 against per game (9.9) and free-
Embiid plays with as can be found on StubHub betting +200 MVP favor- be the greatest? You de- the Bulls. Embiid was throw attempts per game
much fun as any MVP for up to $1,250 a pop — ite (Los Angeles Lakers cide.” the first 76er to score 50 (11.6).
front-runner, and on they’ll surely show the forward LeBron James is Embiid, who missed since Allen Iverson in — Embiid, Barkley and
the February night he love worthy of 20,000 next at +225) and turned what would have been 2005. Chamberlain are the only
dropped 50 points on the back to Embiid. — along with fellow All- his first two seasons be- He is trying to become three 76ers with at least
Chicago Bulls, he sent a At 26, Embiid has not Star Ben Simmons and cause of injuries, still put the first Sixer to win NBA 900 points and 300 re-
sign to the fans they are only led the Sixers (24- Tobias Harris — the Six- up strong numbers in his MVP — the fans call it bounds within their first
with him in spirit. 12) to the best record in ers into perhaps the only first four. But he always an MVBiid campaign — 30 games of a season.

Comics & Puzzles

DILBERT
Dear Abby
D
EAR ABBY: terrified of losing with them will end because
I am an them. I’m usually you’re living your authentic
out-and- a straightforward life mystifies me. If they can’t
proud lesbian person. I feel handle the truth, you and your
who recently open communi- wife are better off without
celebrated 10 cation is import- them.
years as a couple ant with every- DEAR ABBY: My husband’s
and three years one else in my brother has two kids, both
of marriage to my life. But I have of whom are now adults. The
wife. I worked as lost relationships older one is in their second
a professional before because, year of college; the younger
nanny for many no matter how one will graduate from high
ZITS years, and I’m respectful I tried school this spring. We haven’t
still extremely to be, honesty missed a single birthday for
close to the first can sometimes either one. The only time we
family I worked be hard to hear. see them is when there’s a
for. Although Dear Abby How can I be birthday or it’s Christmas (with
we have known honest without a few exceptions, like the
each other for angering this occasional funeral).
years, they still ask me not to couple, and what’s the best I think it’s time to stop the
mention my marriage when I’m way to start this conversation? annual birthday gifts. We’re
around their kids. They refer — OUTSPOKEN NANNY not particularly close, and I’m
to my wife as my “roommate.” DEAR NANNY: If your for- tired of the forced merriment
It’s all I can do to bite my mer employers think they can when it’s clear they are only
tongue. I have ignored this for censor their children’s world after the gift. How do I tell the
too long. to omit the fact that perfectly parents and the grandparents
GARFIELD I recently invited them over nice people, including one there will be no more gifts for
to see my new home. Because they love, are gay, they’re birthdays without sounding
of their conservative views, I dreaming. Kids today are very like a stingy old aunt? — GIFT-
warned them in advance about worldly. When the parents ED OUT IN MICHIGAN
the wedding photos I have started calling your wife your DEAR GIFTED OUT: Unless
displayed. I’m not ashamed of roommate, you should have you want to make a change
my life. I am extremely proud corrected them then and TOLD immediately, hang in there
of myself and my wife. I am them it was offensive and until the younger child reaches
hurt and offended by their re- hurtful. 21. At that point, put the par-
quests. I feel they only accept Invite them to your home ents/grandparents on notice
certain parts of me. and leave your wedding that because “the kids” are
I realize it’s unhealthy to photos displayed. Why you are now adults, you will be send-
continue this way, but I’m terrified that your relationship ing cards rather than gifts.

CANDORVILLE
Horoscopes
TODAY’S BIRTHDAY (March TAURUS (April 20-May 20). same direction as the others in
11). Perhaps improving sleep, You’ll fill this day with as much the boat. Today’s rowers will be
fitness and nutrition is not in- affection, warmth and laughter all over the place until you take
cluded on your list of ambitious as you can muster, in full-knowl- charge.
and glamourous goals. And yet, edge that people are attractive LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). You
self-discipline in this regard will people. You’re in the mood to have an extremely generous
be cosmically the birthday gift be improvisational and turn attitude with your friends and
you’ll most cherish, as all you things into a game whenever only need to point that inward to
desire will be served on the possible. get fantastic results today. What
shiny platter of good habits. An GEMINI (May 21-June 21). is it that would make you smile?
excellent rating gets you promot- It really doesn’t matter how Get it, do it, be it.
ed in June. Aries and Aquarius good a person is at formulating VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22).
BABY BLUES adore you. Your lucky numbers answers if all of the questions You will travel through the magic
are: 8, 10, 33, 36 and 41. are pointless. This is why you of media and dreams. Your own
ARIES (March 21-April 19). examine your questions with the fantasies provide the sweetest
Ever since the Big Bang, this aim of up-leveling before you escapes but much more is
plane of existence has been ask them. possible. Learning to guide your
made up of contrasts, curves CANCER (June 22-July 22). imagination is a skill that will
and cycles. You wouldn’t want it Your water-sign instincts lend bring good fortune to hand.
all one way. Embrace how it is an innate understanding of the LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23).
now. It’s about to change. significance of paddling in the You’ll be working your mind like
it’s your job — because it is.
While feeding your brain the
facts and figures that will be
necessary, also throw in the
unnecessary stuff that makes it
all go down a little sweeter.
BEETLE BAILEY SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov.
21). Though you’re not a spy or
a member of a secret society,
and you’re not doing much today
that you shouldn’t be doing, you
still want privacy and appreciate
most those who respect yours
the best.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec.
21). You have that caring vibe
now, which is why someone in
need of comfort, protection and
nurturing will be drawn to you.
You don’t have to know the right
way to help — willingness is
MALLARD FILLMORE enough.
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan.
19). Managing relationships is
the most important business of
the day. Is it on the task list?
It belongs there, as caring for
relationships takes time and
specificity beyond what many
other “to-do” items require.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb.
18). Communicating well will
require careful articulation,
patience and a level of attention
emotional attunement that is,
quite frankly, work. Nonethe-
FAMILY CIRCUS less, everything good comes
through good communication.
PISCES (Feb. 19-March
20). Love will feel like a kind
of completion. Matters of the
heart have great potential to re-
solve well, allowing you to trust
and give more freely and with
greater integration of different
parts of yourself.

Look down your nose

SOLUTION:
 The Dispatch • www.cdispatch.com THURSDAY, MARCH 11, 2021 5B

Business
BUSINESS MOVES WITH MARY

Three Sisters Pie company closing downtown

PLUS: Big Buns closing in Starkville; More will be
around in the
retail space,
which cur-
Petty’s Barbecue temporarily closes future. Sims
added she
rently has a
signed lease

A
fter four years of “…Our numbers didn’t will update with Chipotle.
operating, Three drop during COVID, I social media As you
Sisters Pie Com- was surprised.” with plans to drive by now,
pany will close March Throughout this last continue serv- you’ll see piec-
19 due to the COVID-19 year, Bigelow added she ing cinnamon es of Petty’s
pandemic. has been impressed and rolls “through being carried
The pie and coffee shocked with downtown other means off, torn down
shop at 422 Main St. tenants and their continu- in the future.” and removed.
announced its business al efforts to survive. “I really en- Mary Pollitz Changes are
decision on social media “They’ve had a joyed selling tough, but we
last week. rough year, don’t get me at festivals and meeting won’t be without Petty’s
“This pandemic has wrong,” Bigelow said. new people,” she added. barbecue for long.
hurt so many small busi- “They were resilient. “I’ve truly enjoyed meet- “I’m coming back,”
nesses and we were not They got busy and they ing all of the customers Petty said.
immune,” the post read. started upping their web we’ve had over the last
“However we are incredi- and social media pres- two and half years. I hope
bly thankful for our com- ence. They started doing to see them around and
munity who kept us open things they might not serve them again one day
for as long as we were. If have done in the past to soon.”
you loved our little shop keep their sales going.” As of Tuesday, Billy
then you were part of Likewise in Starkville, Petty served his last bar-
what made it great! We we’re losing another becue plate at his eclectic
have loved serving our young, local business. carry-out restaurant.
regulars, semi-regulars, Big Buns & More, Petty opened Petty’s Bar-
newbies, and people just 332 Hwy. 12, will close becue in 1986 but moved
passing through town. Friday. and has maintained shop
Thank you for letting us “Being a new busi- at 103 Hwy. 12 since
be a part of your lives.” ness, (it) can be difficult 1992.
It’s difficult for a com- to become established,” But this is not the last
munity to continually see owner Julie Sims an- plate for Petty. He plans
area businesses closing, nounced on social media. to reopen in the new
especially due to the “They say it usually takes 7,800 square-foot retail
COVID-19 pandemic. three years. We had only development that will
But for downtown been opened for a year be built on the corner of
Columbus, there are and a half when COVID Jackson Street and High-
actually more businesses hit. Sales dropped and way 12, the lot previously
open now than this time have not come back up to occupied by Petty’s.
last year. where (we could) stay in The Dispatch previ-
Main Street Colum- business.” ously reported a Georgia
bus Executive Director Hopefully, Big Buns & developer is building the
Barbara Bigelow ran the
downtown occupancy
numbers and the results
even surprised her. In
March 2020, the occu-
pancy rate downtown
was 90.4 percent. As of
now that rate sits at 91.8
percent.
“We had new busi-
nesses come in during
COVID,” Bigelow said.

LOCAL GAS PRICES

Source: gasbuddy.com

COLUMBUS
2.36 MURPHY USA
1913 US-45 N

2.37 SPIRIT
97 Alabama St.

2.39 KROGER
1829 US-45 N

STARKVILLE
2.35 MURPHY USA
1012 MS-12

2.37 SPRINT MART

308 Hwy 12 E

2.39 MARATHON
301 MS-12 W

Get promoted? Win an award?

Send us your business brief.
[email protected]
subject: Business brief
Classifieds
ADS APPEAR IN THE COMMERCIAL DISPATCH,
THE STARKVILLE DISPATCH AND ONLINE
To place ads starting at only $12,
call 662-328-2424 or visit ads.cdispatch.com
THE DISPATCH n CDISPATCH.COM n THURSDAY, MARCH 11, 2021 n 6B

Apts For Rent: Other Mobile Homes for Rent Bargain Column

EMPLOYMENT RENT A CAMPER! LAWNMOWER. 20 inch cut Need a new

CALL US: 662-328-2424
CHEAPER THAN A MOTEL!
Utilities & cable included,
basic mower, runs good,
briggs engine. $65. companion?
from $150/wk − $555/mo 662−329−1793.
Columbus & County School
General Help Wanted locations. 662−242−3803 Burial Plots
or 601−940−1397.
DEPENDABLE CAREGIVER 2 BURIAL PLOTS
needed for a senior in Located in Veteran location

REAL ESTATE
Columbus area. MUST @ Memorial Gardens of
HAVE EXPERIENCE IN Columbus, MS. Must have
SENIOR CARE. Must have cash, $7500. A savings of
references, reliable trans- $1500. Plots include burial
portation, background ADS STARTING AT $25 vaults and can be
check, Covid test & vac- exchanged for any spot
cine. 630-698-6049. Farms & Timberland other than a veteran.
Call 662−386−4080 or
662−386−4081.
HELP NEEDED: Looking for 203 ACRES

When looking
someone with a good work PRIME TIMBERLAND
Sporting Goods
ethic, a reliable source of $270,000
transportation and a posit- Exc deer, turkey hunting
ED SANDERS GUNSMITH Sudoku YESTERDAY’S ANSWER
for a new pet, Sudoku
ive attitude. Must be able Good Investment
to work off of a ladder and (615)719−8329 Open for season!
walk on a roof. Bonuses COLEMAN Tue−Fri: 9−5 & Sat: 9−12
Over 50 years experience!
Sudoku is a number-
placing puzzle based on
Yesterday’s answer
for production output.
$12/hr. 662-574-0062.
RENTALS
TOWNHOUSES & APARTMENTS
LAMAR COUNTY, AL: 63 Repairs, cleaning, refin−
ACRES on County Road 34. ishing, scopes mounted &
adoption is Sudoku
a 9x9 gridis
ber-placing
a several
with num-
given numbers.puzzle
7 5 4 3 8 9 6 1 2
The object 1 9 2 5 7 6 3 8 4

2021 Conceptis Puzzles, Dist. by King Features Syndicate, Inc.

zeroed, handmade knives.
LEGAL SECRETARY needed
for local firm. Must be able
1 BEDROOM
2 BEDROOMS
Exc hunting, some timber,
power & county water. Located: Hwy 45 Alt, North
$1,150 per acre. 205−712 of West Point, turn right on
always a based
grid
1 to 9with
onthe
is to place a 9x9
numbers
in theseveral
8 6 3 2 4 1 5 7 9
empty spaces 6 8 5 4 9 3 7 2 1
to work dual screen
computer. Email resume
3 BEDROOMS −5606 or 205−799−9846. Yokahama Blvd, 8mi & turn
Lots & Acreage
left on Darracott Rd, will
see sign, 2.5mi ahead good option. given
so thatnumbers.
object
column and each 3x3 the
is to place
The 2 7 1 6 5 8 4 9 3
each row, each
box 3 4 9 1 2 7 8 5 6
with references to: LEASE, numbers
contains the1same
to 9 number
in
© The Dispatch

shop on left.
[email protected]
DEPOSIT 1.75 ACRE LOTS: Good/ 662−494−6218. the empty spaces so 5 2 6 7 1 4 9 3 8
only once. The difficulty 9 3 7 8 6 2 1 4 5
AND Bad Credit Options. Good that each row, each
credit as low as 20% down, level increases from
THE COMMERCIAL
CREDIT CHECK column and each 4 1 8 9 3 5 2 6 7
Monday
boxtocontains
Sunday.
VEHICLES
DISPATCH $499/mo. Eaton Land,
3x3 Difficulty Level 3/10

is seeking a part time

employee for approxim- 662-329-2323
662−361−7711.
Five Questions: the same number only once. The difficulty level
ately 2-3 hours of work per increases from Monday to Sunday.
ADS STARTING AT $12
day. Driving required.
Must have reliable trans-
portation, valid driver's
2411 HWY 45 N
COLUMBUS, MS
MERCHANDISE Motorcycles & ATVs 1 Julia Child
license & auto insurance.
$9 per hour plus mileage. Houses For Rent: North ADS STARTING AT $12 ’05 HONDA REBEL 250

2 Eyes
Apply at our office at 516 Black, red & grey. Actual
Main Street in Columbus COLONIAL TOWNHOUSES. Bargain Column miles, 1,432. $1200.
or via email to Mike Floyd 2 & 3 bedroom w/ 2−3 662−364−0120.
at [email protected] bath townhouses. $650 to CRAFTSMAS WEED EATER,
$750. 662−549−9555. gas power, used little, runs
great. $70. 662−329−
3 Benjamin
COMMUNITY
Ask for Glenn or text.
ROSES DAY SPA 1793.

Franklin
Licensed Nail Tech needed Mobile Homes for Rent
for pedicures, manicures & FISHING POLES: Rhino
shellacs. Good pay. 662- 3BR/2BA MH in New Hope. titanium, 6’6" med heavy ADS STARTING AT $12
327-7718, ask for Logan. $650 dep + $650/mo. rods with Zebco 733 reel.

4 Blue
No pets, quiet area. Leave Used 2 times lightly, paid Pets
THE COMMERCIAL voicemail with full name & $50ea. Ready to fish with!
DISPATCH message, 205−712−6697. $80. 662−329−1793.
seeks a motivated, REGISTERED DACHSHUND
puppies for sale.
contracted carrier for the
5 Corsica
PLACE YOUR AD ONLINE ads.cdispatch.com Ready to go now!
Caledonia area. Excellent Call 205−596−3264.
opportunity to earn money
for college. Must have
good transportation, valid
driver's license & insur-
ance. Delivers on Sunday
morning and Mon-Fri after-
noons. Apply at The Com-
mercial Dispatch, 516
Main Street in Columbus.
No phone calls please.

Medical / Dental

The Golden Triangle Plan-

ning and Development Dis-
trict is accepting applica-
tions for part-time person-
al care attendants to work
in the Golden Triangle area.
Applicants must have a val-
id driver’s license, reliable
transportation and liability
insurance on vehicle. Male
and female applicants
needed. Contact Minnie
Lindsey at the Golden Tri-
angle Planning and Devel-
opment District, 106 Miley
Drive, P. O. Box 828, Stark-
ville, MS 39760. No tele-
phone calls please. ACROSS
1 Part maker
5 Small tree
RENTALS 10 Lotion
additive
ADS STARTING AT $25 11 Relaxed
12 Writer Uris
Apts For Rent: North 13 Chinese food
veggie
802 17TH ST. N. 14 Texas flag
2 bed/ 1 bath, all electric, symbol
ceramic tiled bath, carpet,
appliances. $475/Mth. 16 Prominent
Credit check. Call Long & player
Long @ 662−328−0770. 20 Marbles, so
to speak
FOX RUN APARTMENTS 23 Drink with a
1 & 2 BR near hospital. head
$595−$645 monthly. 24 Penned
Military discount, pet area,
pet friendly, and furnished 25 Was wide- 3 Earth circler winner in 2013
corporate apts. open 4 Charity event 22 Seasonal
24−HOUR PROFESSIONAL 27 Longevity 5 Iron output song

SERVICE DIRECTORY
GYM. ON SITE SECURITY. 28 Comes up 6 Learns about 25 June cele-
ON SITE MAINTENANCE.
ON SITE MANAGEMENT. 29 Navigating aid 7 Cardi B spe- brant
24−HOUR CAMERA 32 Reward for cialty 26 Zeppelin
SURVEILLANCE. Benji & good schoolwork 8 GI-entertaining 28 Travel aid
Ashleigh, 662−386−4446. 36 Portugal’s grp. 30 Snowy wader
place 9 Nap location 31 Planting
Apts For Rent: West PROMOTE YOUR SMALL BUSINESS STARTING AT ONLY $25 39 Swaying 11 In a fitting bases
dance way 33 Oompah
VIP
Building & Remodeling General Services General Services Painting & Papering
40 Carouses 15 Location producer

Rentals
HOME REPAIRS &
BANKRUPTCY WORK WANTED: QUALITY PAINTING 41 “Yeah, right!” 17 Spigots 34 Guinness of
MAINTENANCE Licensed & Bonded. Ext/Int Painting 42 “Endymion” 18 Out of the movies
Work wanted. Carpentry, CHAPTER 7 TILL SMALL GARDENS. Sheet Rock Hang, Finish & poet
Apartments & Houses concrete, electrical & BANKRUPTCY Carpentry, minor electrical, Repair. Pressure Washing. wind 35 Assess
plumbing, shingle & metal $545 plus Filing Fee minor plumbing, insulation, Free Estimates. Ask for 43 Tempo 19 Cincinnati 36 Tick off
1 Bedrooms roofing, fascia & soffit
CHAPTER 13
painting, demolition, specials! Larry Webber, DOWN team 37 Worker, e.g.
repairs, pressure washing gutters cleaned, pressure 662−242−4932. 1 Ref’s decision 20 Trade 38 Longoria of
2 Bedroooms & mobile home repairs. BANKRUPTCY washing, landscaping, &
2 Bread spread 21 Best Picture TV
3 Bedrooms No Job Too Small. All Attorney Fees Through The Plan cleanup work. SULLIVAN’S PAINT
662−549−7031. Jim Arnold, Attorney 662−242−3608. SERVICE
Furnished & Unfurnished General Services 662-324-1666 Lawn Care / Landscaping
Special Prices.
Interior & Exterior Painting.
1, 2, & 3 Baths 104 South Lafayette Street, Starkville
JESSE & BEVERLY’S
662−435−6528
Please visit our website:
Lease, Deposit A & T TREE SERVICES jimharnold.com LAWN SERVICE
& Credit Check
Bucket truck & stump Spring Cleanup, Tree
removal. Free est. Saturday morning appointments
Cutting, Landscaping, Are you a painter?
available for Starkville Office. Advertise here!
viceinvestments.com Serving Columbus Sodding & Bush Hogging

327-8555
since 1987. Senior 662−356−6525
citizen disc. Call Alvin @
242−0324/241−4447 Automotive Services
"We’ll go out on a limb
for you!"

DUMP TRUCK HAULING.

Slag − $400
Clay Gravel − $250
Millie for Driveways − $375
Available for hauling any
materials. Filling in
swimming pools.
Columbus. Call Walter,
662−251−8664.
You’ll find the best deals
when you advertise
and shop here! Got leaky pipes?
Find a plumber in the
ads.cdispatch.com classifieds.