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MSU's Bost motivated for North Carolina 3/19/2010 1:21:00 PM
UNCBlueBlood at 3/19/2010 11:29:00 PM: UNC may have 7 McD's on the roster, but only 5 (Zeller, Drew, Henson, Strickland, TWear) will actually be suiting up.

Ed Davis (UNC's leading rebounder, shot-blocker, field-goal% leader and second leading-scorer) will be on the sidelines as will freshman David Wear.

I know that the difference between 5 and 7 McD All-Americans doesn't sound like much, but the UNC team with Ed Davis beat Michigan State and Ohio State handily, lost by 2 in Rupp to Kentucky and held a lead over Duke when Davis went down with a broken hand as Kyle Singler slid under him on a layup attempt.

None of UNC's active McD's All-Americans are upper class-men and only one of them started a game last season (Tyler Zeller...and only because Hansbrough was injured to start the season.) Zeller has zero starts for this year's team.

Combined, UNC's 5 McD's All-Americans average 32 points, 15 rebounds and 9 assists per game while playing less than half of the 200 total minutes logged by the team per game.

Yes, UNC has a very rich basketball tradition and are the defending National Champions (minus 4 of last year's starters of course,) but don't fool yourselves into thinking that a win over this particular squad would mean anything more than a win over a 4th-seeded NIT team that is playing in a hostile environment on the road. If, after your team wins, you still think that you have defeated a giant, you are clearly one of those folks who gets a thrill out of kicking people when they are already on the ground while bragging all the while.

Haters can now begin with the "excuses, excuses" rants.
Nunnelee: I would have said no months ago 3/19/2010 10:54:00 AM
Fear not... at 3/19/2010 10:48:00 PM: Fear not. A fabulous friend just announced that she received an OFFICIAL email from the Central Bank of Nigeria! They're sending her a BAZILLION dollars! She was going to share with all of her friends, but has wisely decided just to buy our country, pay off the debt, and fire the lot of 'em in DC. Just maybe there might be enough left over that she can buy a round of ice cream for all of us (from Kroger!)
Lesbian high schooler who sued over prom gets $30,000 scholarship on 'Ellen' 3/19/2010 2:48:00 PM
resident at 3/19/2010 10:46:00 PM: to allow them to label all over versions as

my bad, that should be "all other" versions as. Sorry for the typo.
resident at 3/19/2010 10:44:00 PM: Do you Bible wavers even have a clue as to where this book came from that you are sure has all the answers?

You do realize it was an agreed upon version put out by the Roman Catholic Church, and done so to allow them to label all over versions as fakes. It wasn't that this was the "true story", it was this is the only one they would allow to be used without facing the wrath of the RCC.

And if you are looking at the King James version, you are looking at a work written by one man under contract with the King of England for the sole purpose of making himself appear to be in power with the grace of God. He did this for two reasons: the church did not allow divorces, and he wanted rid of his present wife so that he could pursue his mistress, and to protect himself from being over-thrown by his countrymen as retaliation for the hard times they were experiencing in England.

It's all in the history books if you'd care to look it up.
Helmet ordinance hearing draws mixed reaction 3/17/2010 10:55:00 AM
Irvingtonguy at 3/19/2010 10:16:00 PM: I agree totally with "MB", what are they going to start restricting next...no ice cream if your diabetic or overweight. No stair climbing if your old or suffer from osteoporosis because you might fall. They need to get their noses out of everyone's life and work on less government and not more. We are slowly losing our individual rights one by one. When we finally wake up to the fact we are under the complete control of the government it will be too late.
Mayor vetoes School Board appointment 3/19/2010 10:54:00 AM
Irvingtonguy at 3/19/2010 10:08:00 PM: Why not just save a lot of time and say..."only blacks need apply." Why waste everyone's time when whites are going to be automatically excluded.
MSU's Bost motivated for North Carolina 3/19/2010 1:21:00 PM
braveheel at 3/19/2010 9:58:00 PM: Dee Bost should have worried more about his grades than his recruitment. He failed himself by needing at least a year of juco to catch up academically after high school. Not one div 1 school could admit him after high school. And UNC slighted him? They aren't going to recruit anyone they know wont qualify. He should feel slighted by the system that pushed him through because he was a star athlete. Accept responsibility for your own shortcomings!
John Wall at 3/19/2010 9:54:00 PM: if my team hadn't one a title this century, i'd be pretty jealous too. if kentucky does win one this year, and then the ncaa revokes it b/c of their sleazy coach, will kentucky fans still try to claim it? we'll see.

go heels! they'll win another one before kentucky does.
DUIs on the rise in Starkville, Columbus 3/18/2010 9:44:00 AM
HMMMM at 3/19/2010 9:40:00 PM: Tickets from county, city and highway patrol. Up in Columbus and Starkville..Crack down. How many tickets are given for the area around the strip club? How many are processed? They drink they drive and yet a very very low number of tickets. Could it have anything to do with the lawyer for that place being a judge in West Point, or so we are told. Ever think about that? Why not that place? Who protects it? Guess it might have connections? If some have to pay why not all. Bust this group too.
Columbus teen dies in early morning house fire 3/18/2010 8:56:00 AM
kimmy at 3/19/2010 9:14:00 PM: im sad because that was a family friend and his mother loved him alot but now the lord has called him home but we are still sad of the news but they can make it through this problem but were sad but we know he's in a better place god bless our family friend DAMIEN HARRIS
Clean Sweep Columbus in need of volunteers 3/19/2010 10:54:00 AM
TD at 3/19/2010 9:00:00 PM: Glad that some people are taking pride in Columbus.

Here is the next step -- there needs to be an awareness campaign to get people to start putting trash (beverage containers, fast food bags, etc) into the trash container rather than the back end of their pick up. When those pick-up drivers start going down the road, the air movement flings that junk all over the roadways.

hosedtaxpayer at 3/19/2010 8:50:00 PM: Cheers aloud! This is a great start for Columbus to become great again. It is great to see strong, young minds working together for the greater good of Columbus and Lowndes County.
Lesbian high schooler who sued over prom gets $30,000 scholarship on 'Ellen' 3/19/2010 2:48:00 PM
Will at 3/19/2010 8:39:00 PM: No TD you don't get it!
Domtar closing: Sad and painful news 3/18/2010 3:41:00 PM
JustMe at 3/19/2010 8:32:00 PM: I am one of the many 219 ppl working at the plant. Yes, everyone's prayers are much needed. I have said many a prayer for the one's that have been in this situation before me and still pray for them now. God is GOOD and there is a way to make it through this. I am a single parent and times are hard but God is my rock! He always makes a way. God Bless
Lesbian high schooler who sued over prom gets $30,000 scholarship on 'Ellen' 3/19/2010 2:48:00 PM
TD at 3/19/2010 8:16:00 PM: I think I understand this.

A court will order a school to hold a prom just so a young lady has the first amendment "right" to show off her girlfriend in public.

That's probably the same court that won't allow other students at the same school to exercise their first amendment "right" to pray or even say Merry Christmas.

Yep, I got it!


Helmet ordinance hearing draws mixed reaction 3/17/2010 10:55:00 AM
billy 2 at 3/19/2010 8:15:00 PM: Sounds like most of you have head injurys already. May be too late to save you! What about the KIDS ?
Lesbian high schooler who sued over prom gets $30,000 scholarship on 'Ellen' 3/19/2010 2:48:00 PM
Will at 3/19/2010 7:28:00 PM: Get a Grip People, we are here!! We are your Children, some are your Parents, Husbands, Wives, Uncles, Aunts, and even some of us are Christians that go to Church every Sunday too! We might be your Neighbor, Brother, Sister, or even Grandma and Grandpa. Your Spouse might be "In the Closet". So now whom ever is without Sin, Please cast your Stone! Remember that America is the Land of the Free and Brave! God Bless you all!
Conference brings visitors, ‘spiritual impact’ to Columbus 3/18/2010 9:44:00 AM
Larry Dixon at 3/19/2010 7:00:00 PM: I applaud the efforts of Bishop McCarter on leading the way on an event of this magnitude. The focus of us all should be to have a deeper spiritual enlightenment on every side. Hopefully, the whole nation realizes the need to give honor to God all of the time and not just in crisis. Again, gentlemen please continue this very needed body of work. Also, great work Pastor Jefferson. I wish you and your congregation all the best.
Lesbian high schooler who sued over prom gets $30,000 scholarship on 'Ellen' 3/19/2010 2:48:00 PM
J at 3/19/2010 6:49:00 PM: Dear if I can't!!~ You are a puke, why should we be forced to accept your lifestyle? Do you really know what God want's or thinks? It's just a vision of what you and people think. Maybe he doesn't like that your a critical little **** If your really that brainwashed about everthing around you, then maybe you need a reality check. I believe that if the higher power does exist, which I think he does!! I also believe he's not as close minded as you seem to think, don't try to cover up your sick judgement problems with what you think the big guy thinks, do you have factual proof? The bible was written a long time ago, before we all new health issues excisted. Get a grip.
WOW!! unbelievable? You sure are at 3/19/2010 6:36:00 PM: I don't care if your child belongs to the school or not, you still don't know squat. Was your child attending the prom? If so was he/ she excited? Usually when a teen is going to prom he/she is so excited to go they want to talk details to their friends, usually that conversation has topics like, who's your date? What are you wearing? Where's dinner? How are you getting there? Etc... Regardless of the relationship status of the couple going together, everyone knows all these things before hand. Why should have she kept all this excitement of Prom a secret until the night of? Isn't she allowed to express her excitement before hand like everyone else? That's part of the fun leading up to the big day! Isn't it?? Again, why should she be quiet until the night of? Only to get all dressed up for a wonderful highschool memory and be told to leave as she enters the school. After she has already paid for dinner, fee's for tickets and photo's, and her outfit? That's the dumbest idea i've ever heard. Wouldn't it upset you if your child was all dressed up and ready for prom with everything paid for, only to return home in tears because the school didn't agree on your child or there date because of their weight, color, appearence, etc.. or should I say their health problems? Being gay is not a choice. Do you honestly think people choose to be gay? Why would you choose to be a target for people to make fun of for being different? If you have any brains in your head you wouldn't. So how is that different for anyone else? Think about it, it makes sence. Most kids try to avoid negative peer attention in school. I think that was great she spoke up for what she believes, was she supposed to forfit all her prom dreams so everyone else could go and enjoy themselves? I think not. Sorry for your child and whom ever had to miss prom at that school, but whats fair for one is fair for all! I also believe what kudos said above! I agree with kudos!! And for all you religion freaks, I have my beliefs in God, if he is going to judge people for being gay(somthing out of their control) then he will probley judge me for my uncontrolled health issues, and I have many, so I must be going to hell for those, that's of course if that's how it really is. Either that or you religion freaks that think you know the drill will actually all go to hell for judging people so unfairly
for their differences, which is what I'm hoping for!!
Carol at 3/19/2010 6:07:00 PM: If the young adults in this country look at the adults, the babyboomers, as an example, then how else could they live?
we do not make decent examples for the young people-parents have open marriages and the kids know their parents are so involved. They party and drink and live for the next chance to do it again.
adults are hypocrits. Show me a Christian home and I will show you how God intended for us to live out our lives. We are here to serve God and to serve others, our fellow man, to be an example to all. Our lifestyle is to be that which is pleasing to God, no if, ands or buts about it.
kudos at 3/19/2010 6:07:00 PM: I believe young people should be taught respect. This young girl respected authority by asking for permission rather than breaking the rules by just showing up at the prom. What was she asking for? just a few hrs of food, music and fun and a memory with friends. what could possibly happen? The adults out of fear of a few people decided not to give her an exception,just coz they do not respect this teen as a human being. what did they teach the rest of the kids? You can get away by disrespecting everyone who does not think like you. Genuinely afraid for these kids to become adults with similar values. regarding the money, it was pure luck and a genuine kindness of Ellen's heart. remember how she got chucked out of ABC when she came out on her show?
boondockslady at 3/19/2010 5:35:00 PM: I believe she should have just went to the prom and not made a bid deal of it. I believe she only wants money and for everyone to know her when they see her. Nationally or locally. I have read about what she wanted but where is the girl she was going to take to this prom? I haven't seen her name mentioned or any comments from her. Is there really another girl or is she just wanted all the money and attention she can get? I don't have anything against gay people I don't have to answer for them when judgment comes, but we all have to answer for ourselves. Is she ready to do this?
MSU's Bost motivated for North Carolina 3/19/2010 1:21:00 PM
jon at 3/19/2010 5:29:00 PM: kentucky is a cheating program with the sleaziest coach in college basketball.
Lesbian high schooler who sued over prom gets $30,000 scholarship on 'Ellen' 3/19/2010 2:48:00 PM
unbelievable at 3/19/2010 5:17:00 PM: I wasnt saying that she should act in secrecy, I was saying why scream it from the mountaintops that shes going with a girl as her lover/date, whatever you want to call it. The straight people dont go buy tickets and say, "just so you know, Im going with a girl/boy and this is what they will be wearing". I could care less who or what she goes with, she could take a poodle if she wants. The only person I have to answer for on judgement day is myself. She wanted attention and I do not think she deserves money for this.
Domtar closing: Sad and painful news 3/18/2010 3:41:00 PM
Dhiimond Jackson at 3/19/2010 5:14:00 PM: Mark, I'm sorry if YOU feel that praying does nothing. That's exactly why the world is like it is today. If you wanted to comment on my statement, fine. But you didn't have to go there with your ignorant opinion that prayer does not work.
Just because you are perhaps an Atheist and not a Christian, it doesn't mean for you to tear down those of us who believe in prayer. Likewise, I don't believe in ignorant men like you who don't believe in God. Go get a Bible in your hand and THEN come back to talk to me on a spiritual level!
Lesbian high schooler who sued over prom gets $30,000 scholarship on 'Ellen' 3/19/2010 2:48:00 PM
sunsok at 3/19/2010 5:13:00 PM: Your kind of thoughts is what worries this big world that GOD created ... so judgemental yet write of choices to be made and not wanting to be judged by angry God. That's terrible within itself .. ANGRY GOD??? I say that your remark is lower than anything created or thought of. You, like so many, are so busy judging others when you talk out of one side of mouth and not follow your own remarks.
Get on with life ... I promise you - NO one is going to unplug your plug - so, plug in wherever you fit.
Tristal at 3/19/2010 5:09:00 PM: This is amazing!! This is the example our future generations are seeing. No wonder the Octomom gets attention these days. The media and this world, in general, needs to accept that EVERYTHING is just not acceptable with GOD. We always do what we feel is best but in the end, GOD is going to have the last say-so. Look in the Bible, there is no record of GOD giving men and women HIS authority to have sex or marry. When those acts occurred in the Bible, GOD punished the people who did it (Sodom and Gomorroah). Get your Bible, people, and those of you who say, "GO CONSTANCE! GO ELLEN!!" You all are pathetic! It's just like saying, "GO, SATAN! TEAR THIS WORLD ON DOWN TO HELL!!!"
If I Can''t at 3/19/2010 5:08:00 PM: Why should this young lady be allowed to bring her lesbian girlfriend to school. I don't want to be forced to "accept" her lifestyle. I, as a Christian, am suppose to be ashamed of what I believe and not say anything. God made Adam and Eve, not Adam and Steve. I am so tired of being told not to judge when the acts are out for all to see. The Bible says,'Judge not lest by the same measure you judge, you shall be judged" This country was founded on Biblical princibles and since then the moral thermometer of this great nation has gone off the charts. If we would following the ten commandments we would be so much better off.
VIDEO: Local Tea Party rallies in Columbus against health care plan 3/17/2010 11:52:00 AM
JJ at 3/19/2010 4:56:00 PM: If someone can (Bush and Cheney) start a pre-emptive war of civilizations by attacking Iraq under false pretenses, the single biggest foreign policy blunder in American history, a war that's had the unintended consequences of playing into the hands of our enemies,made them stronger, and unnecessarily costing us trillions, weakening America as a military and economic power with no end in sight, surely we can give every American affordable healtcare. Amen!
This bill will cost us $940 billions over 10 years. With one flip of his tongue, Bush asked for $700 billions to bail out the "thugs and bank robbers" on wall street.
Where was this "all fired-up Tea Party then"?

MSU's Bost motivated for North Carolina 3/19/2010 1:21:00 PM
J.D. Wall at 3/19/2010 4:43:00 PM: UNC vs UK, 21 to 11, UNC.
That's all folks!
Lesbian high schooler who sued over prom gets $30,000 scholarship on 'Ellen' 3/19/2010 2:48:00 PM
helen at 3/19/2010 4:28:00 PM: There is no judging when the facts are clearly stated. We would really not like for any angry God to judge us. We are playing with our freedom of choice. God made every thing good in his sight, questiond, but is it good for you to eat every thing? The dumb animals knows who to mate with. We who God made a little lower then the Angels dont' What a pity? We need to wake up with our smart selves, before God really gets angry. No sin is bigger than any. A sin aganist your own body is not only a sin aganist God but aganist your own body. God made male for female, female for male, period. Smart Ellicks wake up. In the natural you will never get light from puting to sockets or two plugs together. Socket for plug and plug for socket.
Joe Whaley at 3/19/2010 4:23:00 PM: "Unbelievable"... you're either part of the problem or part of the solution.

Way to go Ellen

Three ways to improve health care 3/19/2010 10:54:00 AM
Justin at 3/19/2010 4:14:00 PM: Teabaggers--real mature JC.


VIDEO: Local Tea Party rallies in Columbus against health care plan 3/17/2010 11:52:00 AM
HK at 3/19/2010 4:12:00 PM: This is my last comment--I actually have a fatal disease without a cure--surprise! It is the reason that I do not want to see our healthcare go down.. this will bring it down.. that is what scares me to pieces.. I used to think that if I need disability and medicaid--it would be there.. now with this.. I do not think it will be there--it will be bad healthcare or it will be busted! So--yes I do have a huge dog in this hunt.. best wishes to all of you.. :)
MSU's Bost motivated for North Carolina 3/19/2010 1:21:00 PM
Dirk Cotton at 3/19/2010 4:11:00 PM: UNC has 5 national titles, not 6. Some fans claim six because they're counting a mythical championship from 1924 (Helms Foundation) before national championships or even out-of-region play existed.

Don't encourage them.

If UK had less self-respect, it could also claim one of those for 1933.
Giving back: Local football great shares success 3/18/2010 9:44:00 AM
j at 3/19/2010 4:09:00 PM: GOOD TO HEAR SOME ONE DOING POSITIVE THINGS! WAY TO GO LESLIE FRAZIER KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK MAKE COLUMBUS PROUD..............
Three ways to improve health care 3/19/2010 10:54:00 AM
JC at 3/19/2010 4:08:00 PM: Rep. Childers has already vowed to vote no. That's why he will not be re-elected in November. The Teabaggers certainly won't vote for anybody in the hated "Democrat [sic] Party," and Democrats won't vote for somebody who won't govern as a Democrat.

Don't let the door hit ya on the way out, Travis.
VIDEO: Local Tea Party rallies in Columbus against health care plan 3/17/2010 11:52:00 AM
JC at 3/19/2010 4:05:00 PM: @mike

You have "plenty of wealth" yet you feel "shafted."

Maybe you should reflect on that.
DUIs on the rise in Starkville, Columbus 3/18/2010 9:44:00 AM
j at 3/19/2010 4:02:00 PM: wreckless...... for some one trying to prove a point
VIDEO: Local Tea Party rallies in Columbus against health care plan 3/17/2010 11:52:00 AM
Greg at 3/19/2010 4:02:00 PM: Mike Cooper,

I don't think I'm judging you in any way and never said you lied. Sorry you took my comment the wrong way. I apologize if I offended you. It looks like the bill is going to pass on Sunday and I hope it does benefit you in the way you believe. Good luck, this is my last comment on the topic.


DUIs on the rise in Starkville, Columbus 3/18/2010 9:44:00 AM
j at 3/19/2010 3:59:00 PM: POLICE ASK HAVE U BEEN DRINKING EVEN IF THEY ARE PULLING U OVER FOR A HEADLIGHT OR BRAKELIGHT OR NO SEAT BELT I SAY TO HELL WITH THESE FAKE COPS THEY NEED TO BE ARRESTED THEM SELVES HALF OF THEM ARE DRUNKS ANYWAY I CANT WAIT TO MOVE OUT OF THIS HELL HOLE THEY CALL COLUMBUS, MS THEY NEED TO BE MORE FOCUSED ON THE DRUNKS THAT ARE DRIVING WREKLESS NOT THE ONES WHO HAVE HAD 2 OR 3 BEERS AND THEY SMELL ALCOHOL COLUMBUS POLICE ARE A JOKE
Lesbian high schooler who sued over prom gets $30,000 scholarship on 'Ellen' 3/19/2010 2:48:00 PM
CK at 3/19/2010 3:55:00 PM: Go Ellen! I went to the HS in question, and it is just as prejudiced and bigoted as everyone makes it out to be. Go Constance!!
People at 3/19/2010 3:43:00 PM: Are you serious??? I am very well straight and no I don't agree with the gay/lesbian lifestyle but neither do I judge it. So many people throw up what the Bible says but forget to mention the part that says "JUDGE NOT" HE WHO JUDGE SHALL BE JUDGED. Wrong is wrong weither you're telling a little white lie, cheating, stealing, cursing, killing, or gay/lesbian. So if you want the truth none of us have room to judge. Like I said no I don't agree with the gay lifestyle but I can't part my lips to to judge it, because thats not my job, It's the LORDS!!! It's 2010 we all know what's going on in these schools it's not like its a secret any more. If they want to bring their same sex bf/gf oh well let them bring them. Just apply the same rules to them that you do to any other couple at the prom, no kissing, to overly close dancing, etc... I do think she should have just brought her date instead of broadcasting, but if you think of it; if Martin Luther King had of just kept his mouth shut, if Rosa Parks had of just gotten up, it Malcom X had of not fought then things would be a lot different, there would have never been a change so some times you just got to open your mouth and stand for what you believe in. If you don't stand for something, you'll fall for anything!!!!
Impressed at 3/19/2010 3:38:00 PM: Debbie - I'll gladly take a stance. A stance for equality and tolerance regardless of sexual orientation or any other "lifestyle choice".

This girl didn't do anything wrong. Her lawsuit asks for $1 in damages. She isn't out to make money for this. The school policy clearly says that one cannot attend the prom with a same sex date. According to her in the past other students had been kicked out of prom for having same sex dates, so she went ahead of time to the administration to try to get permission. They told her she couldn't come to the prom with her date. That is wrong and I'm glad she sacrificed for herself so that maybe others in the future won't have to endure the same discrimination.

Mississippi has only itself to blame for these sorts of blemishes.
R,E at 3/19/2010 3:35:00 PM: I feel if the kids could go to school with her all the year long then whats the big deal of them going to the prom? I live her town and ashamed of the way she is being treated, I do know that our juviniles are being represented in court by a lesbian and our county pays for this. Is'nt this double standards? Come on Itawamba County wake up!!!
brittany harper at 3/19/2010 3:35:00 PM: Unbelievable,

You should be ashamed of yourself. She should have acted in secrecy to avoid scandal?? If everyone thought like you, gays would still be firmly sequestered in the closet, hiding and lying about their true selves to avoid censure!

Miss McMillen deserves to take whomever she wishes to prom! And kudos to her for having to courage to speak up and speak out against prejudice and unfair treatment. And kudos to Ellen and Tonic.com for providing Miss McMillen such an opportunity to create a great future for herselft.
VIDEO: Local Tea Party rallies in Columbus against health care plan 3/17/2010 11:52:00 AM
Mike Cooper at 3/19/2010 3:33:00 PM: Didn't think it had gotten beyond civil. But, since I am now being judged, I shall conclude my comments on this issue. But, I challenge anyone who feels that I have "lied" to point it out specifically. We can have our own opinions, but not our own facts. It's clear those who oppose this bill are healthy and have good health care insurance, for now. The question then becomes, which one might you lose first?
Lesbian high schooler who sued over prom gets $30,000 scholarship on 'Ellen' 3/19/2010 2:48:00 PM
agreeable at 3/19/2010 3:24:00 PM: I 100% agree with unbelievable. I went to my prom with my best friend because neither one of our boyfriends could get off work. No one said anything to us about coming together and dancing together.

debbie at 3/19/2010 3:24:00 PM: the declination of morals and values of the United States of America has taken a huge toll on this great nation. no one seems to care anymore. i do not agree with the gay or lesbian lifestyle as i choose to believe in what the Bible says on this subject. i can only imagine how mad the other students are that they are missing out on their prom because of her lifestyle choice. however, we will all stand in front of God one day and have to explain our doings here on this earth.
in my opinion, she should have kept her mouth shut and her lifestyle to herself. why on earth would anyone want to bring attention and sometimes shame on their family by going public with this stuff.
i am proud to be a mississippian but i will also stand and be firm on my beliefs and try my best with all i have to keep this kind of stuff out of our school systems and out of our state.
if we all took a stance, it might make a difference.
mike at 3/19/2010 3:21:00 PM: ha ha , you go girl !!!! thats right blame HER, not the bigots that were suppressing her rights.
unbelievable at 3/19/2010 3:10:00 PM: she got the attention she was trying to get. Had she just bought her ticket and her friends ticket or they bought their own tickets and not said anything about who she was going with and what they were wearing, no one would have known a thing until that night and all this would have been avoided. But NO, she wanted to make this a big deal. She went around school announcing her plans and thats how it became such a big deal,(my child attends the school), and she earns money for this foolishness. I dont condone the school or her, but she wanted to create a scandal, and I guess we should say thanks for giving MS one more nationally known blemish. as if we dont already have enough.
Impressed at 3/19/2010 3:00:00 PM: Wow, that's really great! I'm sure it hasn't been easy for that girl to stand up for what is right. I can only imagine how some of her fellow students have been treating her. No doubt blaming her for the loss of their prom, because it couldn't possibly be the bigoted attitudes of the school leadership that are the problem. Use that 30K and run far away from Mississippi!
Mayor vetoes School Board appointment 3/19/2010 10:54:00 AM
steve at 3/19/2010 2:36:00 PM: Anna,

Do you think they picked her because she is white? or because she was the best choice to make a difference?
Domtar closing: Sad and painful news 3/18/2010 3:41:00 PM
J at 3/19/2010 2:31:00 PM: Magazines and newspapers are moving more toward online digital formats because it is cheaper and that's where people are getting their news and information these days. This particular industry is just a casualty of future innovation. It really has nothing to do with what any government entity has done in this case. The good news is that when one industry comes to an end then something else naturally grows to accommodate the new innovation. The key is to see where the curve is headed and to try to attract businesses that will be booming in the future.
Three ways to improve health care 3/19/2010 10:54:00 AM
Terry Turnage at 3/19/2010 1:52:00 PM: I like all Justin's suggestions and especially echo his request that Congressman Childers vote "NO" on the current bill.

I would like to add that if you added a HSA (Health Saving Account) where the consumer was in charge of paying the doctor, that would be another way to make the consumer more in tuned to what is the true cost of medical care. Thus adding pressure to lower the costs of health care. It would also keep the doctor from having added expenses of fighting insurance companies for fees.

We in Mississippi have already taken an important step with Tort reform, and it is time for the rest of the nation to do that also.

Terry Turnage


Nathan Bedford Forrest in West Point 3/18/2010 10:48:00 AM
walter at 3/19/2010 1:50:00 PM: He did start it, but others have perpetuated it and it's dogma. To counter it, we need more people involved in organizations that counter what the KKK stood (stand) for and demonstrate that we are, indeed, brothers and sisters, and that our differences is merely skin-deep and other differences we have are the product of cultural forces and nothing else. Intelligent whites and blacks pray and hope for a day when the poison unleashed by Forrest and his crew will be eliminated from our society, once and for all. It has crippled us, as a people, a city, a region and a state. We can ill-afford to tolerate what the man taught and preached, if we're going to help our young to experience and enjoy all the blessings of this nation and especially our hometown, Columbus, Lowndes and other surrounding counties.
Barbour trims another $41 million from budget; cuts total $499.5 million 3/17/2010 4:16:00 PM
Anna at 3/19/2010 1:49:00 PM: Why are Democrats to blame? Republicans have been running MS government for years. The problem is that no one in control knows anything about education. When is the last time legislators or other government officials have been in a public school classroom for a day? They know nothing about the ins and outs of the school system. They need to cut out the bureaucracy at the central office level, cut superintendent pay, and listen to teachers who are truly the experts in their field. Teaching is not like managing a business. Children are a product of their homes. We, as teachers, can not do our jobs because we are forced to provide social services because the government is no longer holding parents accountable for their children.
VIDEO: Local Tea Party rallies in Columbus against health care plan 3/17/2010 11:52:00 AM
hk at 3/19/2010 1:46:00 PM: I feel you Mike! Good email!
Mayor vetoes School Board appointment 3/19/2010 10:54:00 AM
anna at 3/19/2010 1:39:00 PM: David,
I feel your opinion was idiotic and I am glad that you are not the mayor of Starkville. I applaud his decision that Starkville Schools needs to have a board that is representative of its students. What is the problem with that...if the black candidates are as qualified as the white candidate or any other ethnic person. People in Mississippi can be soooooooooo ignorant at times...especially whites.
Barbour trims another $41 million from budget; cuts total $499.5 million 3/17/2010 4:16:00 PM
walter at 3/19/2010 1:39:00 PM: There is absolute no reason why the Governor and legislators are unable to make education the state's number one priority, instead of criminal justice, and decree that now and far into the foreseeable future, it, and it alone, will be permanently excluded from even the mentioning of cuts in the budget impacting education. If they're wise, honest and intelligent enough, they could plainly see that investment in education would substantially decrease the crime and, thus, the need for additional law enforcers and all the apparatus they require to be law enforcers. Unless, of course, they're are the far too many people with their hands out with vested interests in maintaing a high budget for law enforcement besides the ordinary, but decent, law-abiding citizens of the state who seeks only to live and let live, most hard-working people of the state already want the elected leaders to do right by our young, regarding education.
Aldermen pick Tomlinson for school board 3/17/2010 10:55:00 AM
Are you serious? at 3/19/2010 1:39:00 PM: Boot johnson, first of all racism is everywhere unfortunately, but to say Starkville is one of the most racist cities in America is just ridiculous and untrue. How exactly did you come to this conclusion?
VIDEO: Local Tea Party rallies in Columbus against health care plan 3/17/2010 11:52:00 AM
mike at 3/19/2010 1:29:00 PM: I'm not for GIVING health care to all these illegals,to people that are legal and haven't paid any taxes. Perhaps that is a different subject to some... I'm sick and tired of supporting deadbeats and all this does is support them even more. I have traveled the world and been in 44 States here. (big cities and small towns)...We are the melting pot for deadbeats because of our govt. givaways.. I'm a retired business owner (and lobbyist LOL..)that has paid millions in taxes, insured, have plenty of wealth and also a Nam era Vet that served for this country (for crap pay and aweful conditions) so I can use the VA services if I had to. I already feel as though I'm shafted. I'm tired of this country co-signing lazy, bad behavior. A KID WIIL NEVER LEARN TO SWIM IF YOU KEEP HOLDING HIM UP... WHY should I and my family (I'm concerned for my Childerns future) pay for insurance for someone that has a car, cell phone, smokes, drinks, parties,gambles, lives in section 8 housing, and is already recieving a check every month from the govt.? (Makes me feel like a dummie for working my a$$ off all those years and paying taxes) Want to answer that?? I do not mind however helping the disabled AMERICANS, the elderly AMERICANS, and young AMERICANS under the age of 21.... There are people that will DROP their jobs if this passes... WHY tha hell not?? Get a check (have a few kids? get a big'un) ,sec.8 housing, food stamps, and health insurance.. What else do SOME people want? Time to go fishin!! I've heard some GOOD folks say, "I'd quit my job tomorrow but I would loose my insurance"... As far as the $$$ saved here and there.. might be possible.. but, This is govt run.. They don't SAVE..They are the folks that pay $800 for trash cans..They throw away money,**check out Ploosers jet,(not just dems either)..Money gets shuffled around and hidden.(Just as we do with our own) George W Bush?? Everytime an Obamacrate get up against the wall and has ran out of lies he brings up George W Bush... Nice to have a whipping post I guess..(Bush was not the sharpest pencil in the stack) I'm surprised that Obama didn't blame the Earthquake in Hawaii that measured in conversation with Katrina on GW. No, I'm not a bean counter... Not that well versed either.. Really I'm just a regular guy that believes in God, kinda likes our constitution as it is, respects those that work for a living, and really don't care for a bunch of bull-crap from a President (and his followers)that is about as American as a 1986 YUGO. Do ya feel me now???
Giving back: Local football great shares success 3/18/2010 9:44:00 AM
walter at 3/19/2010 1:24:00 PM: Frazier's exploits on the field at Lee under Coach Smith was after my time in the city. But, his notoriety reached me and I watched, applauded and bragged about my homeboy wherever I went and to whomever I felt needed to know that Possum Town is no (was no) slouch and that outstanding athletes, like Drungo, B.B., Mohawks, George Irby, Thomas, 14, Hound, Joe Edwards, Durant, Poindexter, Duke, Fats, Stacy, Dismuke and on and on were born and raised there and that we've produced stellar individuals in many other spheres of life, as well.

Leslie is a great role-model and his appearance back home can only be an inspiration to others who have been beaten down and find themselves making unfortunate, negative life-choices. with individuals like Leslie engaged, Columbus' chances of becoming all that I am convinced it can become are great. Thanks, Leslie, especially from all of us who preceded you and others who know that what you've done and continues to do, make a great difference in the lives of us all.
VIDEO: Local Tea Party rallies in Columbus against health care plan 3/17/2010 11:52:00 AM
HK at 3/19/2010 1:15:00 PM: Greg--I am with you 100%.. good of you to say those things. afterall--it is all just money signs on paper--our money does not mean much anymore anyway.. it is all just numbers on a page.. and talk-talk-talk.. we really do not have that much control. We will have to live with whatever they do up there in D.C. I do not want to bash anyone personally. I am glad Mike is a Christian.. :) he really tried hard to be politically correct with his "their God" comment. I pray the Lord thy God will move in his heart. thanks Greg.. everyone have a great day--oh yes--I can not resist--after this passes--free 5,000.00 PET scans for everyone!! yippee!!
Columbus Fire and Rescue urges residents to practice home fire safety 3/19/2010 10:54:00 AM
Bill at 3/19/2010 1:13:00 PM: As a safety professional, your piece raises some good points, but leaves out some other pertinent information. Other things people should do is:

1. Smoke detectors should be tested monthly.
2. Batteries in smoke detectors should be replaced every 6 months.
3. Not only should you have smoke detectors, but carbon monoxide (CO) detectors as well, tested monthly and batteries replaced every 6 months.
4. Have at least one or two fire extinguishers in the home (as well as one or two for the garage or work shed), preferably a 2.5 to 5 lbs. A/B/C/ or K rated extinguisher. These also need to be inspected monthly and replaced yearly, or after a discharge. Extinguishers can be purchased at Wal-Mart or Lowes for $30.00 or less.

Taking the time to do these things not only makes your home safer, but could also give you those precious extra seconds to save your family and yourself in the event of a fire.
Mayor vetoes School Board appointment 3/19/2010 10:54:00 AM
david at 3/19/2010 1:11:00 PM: Sounds like something that would happen in West Point or Columbus. Be better than those idiots Starkville.
VIDEO: Local Tea Party rallies in Columbus against health care plan 3/17/2010 11:52:00 AM
Greg at 3/19/2010 12:49:00 PM: Hey guys, I see you are all back at it again blaming each other's parties for the mess the country is in right now. Yesterday, when we were having this discussion I thought we made some progress and quit the name calling and party bashing and debated real issues and concerns but it seems that you all have gone back to the low-road of accusing each other of being left-wing liberals or far-right conservatives. Look, we all have our opinions about this legislation and feel strongly about what role it is going to play in our future, but gosh, do we really need to bash each other about this. Mike, I really enjoyed our discussion yesterday and finally thought we all were able to act like adults and discuss this with an open mind, but maybe I was wrong. I still say this plan won't work given the amount of the cost, the way it is going to be paid for, and it all depends on if the future Congress implements the taxs and changes that are involved for the long-term. Please guys, lets try to keep this civil!
Thanks again for all your comments.
Citizens protest handling of Aberdeen scandal 3/17/2010 10:55:00 AM
Fred McVen at 3/19/2010 12:29:00 PM: What they really need to do is invest in an Automatic Meter Reading system. That would solve the problem of getting the meters read on time and they wouldn't have to keep throwing money away on a Meter Reading contractor.
Tensions flare at Oktibbeha Supes meeting 3/19/2010 10:54:00 AM
IIS at 3/19/2010 12:20:00 PM: Take an example from BHO and just have a beer summit.
VIDEO: Local Tea Party rallies in Columbus against health care plan 3/17/2010 11:52:00 AM
Mike Cooper at 3/19/2010 12:08:00 PM: I'm a born again Christian and I do know. I was baptised relatively later in life, in some's opinion, tho I don't think that matters. Which is precisely why I can't judge what others should or should not do on that particular issue. That would be between them and their God.
Nathan Bedford Forrest in West Point 3/18/2010 10:48:00 AM
Clay at 3/19/2010 12:02:00 PM: LOL@JC! While I was reading the article I kept thinking...didn't Mr. Forrest start one of the most vile organizations in America - the KKK. I'd be ashamed to claim any association with such a "man".
Domtar closing: Sad and painful news 3/18/2010 3:41:00 PM
Mark at 3/19/2010 11:59:00 AM: The government did not create the current economic situation, Dhiimond. Businesses did. Manufacturing has been leaving the U.S. steadily in the past 3 decades. Our current administration is trying to help get the economy going again. If not for the efforts of congress, the U.S. would likely be near 20% unemployement. Praying will do nothing to help things.
Barbour trims another $41 million from budget; cuts total $499.5 million 3/17/2010 4:16:00 PM
MB at 3/19/2010 11:16:00 AM: @Concern
There was a bill that passed in the Senate that would have cut the legislators salaries by 10%. Once again the Mississippi House would not take up the bill and let it die! The Mississippi House, controlled by the Democrats, said there was no way they would cut their pay! They do want to furlough workers statewide to save money but they feel like they deserve their outrageous salary for a part time job!! The Mississippi Senate is run by Lt. Gov. Phil Bryant (R) and he appointed committee chairmen from both parties because he knew it was the right thing to do. The Mississippi House of Representatives is run by Speaker Billy McCoy (D) and he did not appoint any opposite committee chairmen and if someone that was a democrat and did not vote for him as speaker he did not appoint them to any important committees! There is no doubt where the problem here in Mississippi is and it is not in the Senate and its not in the Governors Mansion!!!
VIDEO: Local Tea Party rallies in Columbus against health care plan 3/17/2010 11:52:00 AM
HK at 3/19/2010 11:13:00 AM: wow--you are getting way deep on this site.. most people oppose the ruling of R v W--even the lady that went to court to get it passed! most people raped adn pregnant--give the baby up for adoption and do not end the baby's life.. I would hope.. do not feel sorry for me.. I am fine.. the sun will still rise on Monday--no matter what the Lord will still reign.. this may be all His plan.. not for us to try to out guess.. But if you are a Christian--then you know in your heart of hearts that He is in control..
Mike Cooper at 3/19/2010 11:04:00 AM: Sorry HK, The humor is in the connection between Beck and our local "tea partiers". I'm sorry that was misunderstood by you and perhaps others. The abortion is, of course, a different issue; but, I hope if you are married, your wife is never raped and impregnated by a criminal, because she might not want that child as life long memory of the rape. Or, if she can have children in a normal situation, I hope a medical complication never causes you to have to choose between the unborn child and your wife as to which one lives and which one dies. And help me with this one because I've truly forgotten. How did the Supreme Court rule in Roe v. Wade?
HK at 3/19/2010 10:26:00 AM: If you would research the comment Beck made from a Biblical view--it makes total sense. basically do not go to Churches that preach about things other than learning about the Bible. I do not see humor in that.. I see that as the truth.. he is saying do not go to a Church that indoctriantes you about govt. I do not see that as funny.. yes Childers knows that if he supports murder--then he will not be re-elected.. smart man..
Mike Cooper at 3/19/2010 10:15:00 AM: That's funny right there now, I don't care who you are.
JC at 3/19/2010 10:04:00 AM: Have you teabaggers quit your churches yet, like Glen Beck told you to?
Mike Cooper at 3/19/2010 9:58:00 AM: Yes HK, Travis announced, according to our local news last night, he was voting "nay" based on the abortion language that was in the bill as of yesterday. He's also a first full-term dem in a predominently red district and worried about his re-election. Can't blame him. His career may ride on this vote and he knows it. Although his opponent sounded like an idiot when he said Travis should have come out against health care reform long ago rather than waiting till the 11th hour. Really? Come out against health care reform? I thought that was rich. Anyway, I just called his Washington office, because his local offices seemed over burdened and wrote a letter online to him last night. I'm not sure I understand your 'huge problem' comment, though. We are only having a national debate that's being driven by the deep pockets of the health insurance lobbies running frightening ad after frightening ad on TV, most of which is not true, and maximizing their campaign contributions to Senators and Congressmen in an effort to defeat this bill. And a lot, if not most, Americans are falling for it. That in and of itself ought to tell you something. It should tell you where all, or a significant amount, of the money is going in our current health care system. To the insurance companies! It's just that I'd rather some of that money stay in my pocket or perhaps cover some more folks that are dying because they can't afford health care and perhaps keep you covered with insurance just in case you get a catastrophic ailment. I also get my news from multiple sources; and, yes I am anti-Fox because they are so blatantly one-sided. Thanks, HK. I appreciate your position of the wealthy.
Domtar closing: Sad and painful news 3/18/2010 3:41:00 PM
frank at 3/19/2010 9:40:00 AM: We need to bring home the troops from Afghanistan and any that are left in Iraq. This in itself would free up billions of dollars that would be better used to invest in America's. It is not enough that we are spending millions in these countries to establish a terrorist free enviroment, but after we supposedly finish demolishing the infrastructure of these backward places, we will then turn around and pump untold quantities of money into the rebuilding of the very places we helped to destroy. We would be better served to spend this money in America, and let those terror ridden places fend for themselves. Afghanistan has been fighting for a 1000 years, and they will still be fighting as long as they are there. The only difference in Vietnam and Iraq were the events of 9/11. The destruction of the twin towers served to motivate America into a frenzy to eradicate terrorists... terrorist are still killing people in Iraq, yet we have moved on to Afghanistan, after leaving a few thousand U.S. troops dead in Iraq, and for what? In Vietnam, it was 58,000 + dead, and for what? Who "owns" Siagon now? Where is Bin Laden?
DUIs on the rise in Starkville, Columbus 3/18/2010 9:44:00 AM
bulldawg at 3/19/2010 9:23:00 AM: I know of one guy that got his DUI dropped in West Point and his second one hasn't come to trial yet in over a year. Both are connected to people.
Stansbury through with criticism of officiating 3/17/2010 11:38:00 AM
Little sad Bully at 3/19/2010 9:15:00 AM: Maybe Coach Cashbury can buy better players for next year. Until then you have to quit crying and suck it up !
boo at 3/19/2010 9:11:00 AM: BOO HOO. YOU WILL HAVE TO WAIT TIL NEXT YEAR !!!!
VIDEO: Local Tea Party rallies in Columbus against health care plan 3/17/2010 11:52:00 AM
HK at 3/19/2010 9:07:00 AM: Oh yeah--Mike Cooper.. kind of strange how Obama is holding off his trip to Indonesia! They are tearing down statues over there of him. I am sure he is trying to put that off as long as possible.. can't say I blame him
HK at 3/19/2010 9:04:00 AM: thank you Mike Cooper--I get my news from about 5 sources.. I can see you are anti-FOX--you may need to check it out.. you are wayyy into technical junk---like saying nanny nanny boo boo about the particulars if someone actually printed something out or not--it is not the big picture.. we have a huge problem on our hands! HUGE! By the way--I heard yesterday that Childers is voting NO--thanks to the Tea Party wackos.. or who knows--maybe just maybe he actually did print it out and he is one of the ones that actually read it--then changed his vote.. I am praying about this..
Barbour trims another $41 million from budget; cuts total $499.5 million 3/17/2010 4:16:00 PM
Concern at 3/19/2010 9:00:00 AM: It's really sad to hear everyone talk about cutting EDUCATION! Why not cut the lawmakers salary, cut their fringe benfits, and why do we spend so much money in other areas but EDUCATION should be the area to always cut first. I truly beg you to look at other state agenices and you will discover EDUCATION is the most underpaid but the most over worked. Unlike most other agenices, EDUCATORS work many more hours than anyone realizes. Oh, I forgot that does not count. Do your research before you speak!
Aldermen pick Tomlinson for school board 3/17/2010 10:55:00 AM
boot johnson at 3/19/2010 8:57:00 AM: starkville is one of the most racist city in America this is just another example of how it works.
Stansbury through with criticism of officiating 3/17/2010 11:38:00 AM
ezfreeze at 3/19/2010 8:39:00 AM: Hey MORONS...

Even Doug Gottlieb, who is no MSU fan at all said MSU got jobbed... And it wasn't 1 lane violation... It was two... John Wall and Bledsoe committed lane violations...

So you idiots know the rules... The FT shooter can't cross his FT line till it hits the rim either...

What a bunch of classless posters...

Did you notice the SEC didn't fine or officially criticize Stansbury? You think because they realize they screwed up royally...

And if this was a regular season game I would agree you should just move on...

But something like this shouldn't happen in the SEC Championship game regardless of whoever is playing..
VIDEO: Local Tea Party rallies in Columbus against health care plan 3/17/2010 11:52:00 AM
Mike Cooper at 3/19/2010 8:30:00 AM: Thank you Raider. You are correct on all points. I'm concerned that even some of the dems on the hill are being pulled from the "yay" collumn for the same reasons and/or the fact this bill doesn't go far enough, in addition to the GOP muddyin' it up over the abortion language. Our local news reported last night even the Congressman from OUR district may vote "nay"; so, he may have fallen victim to such fear tactics, because this is only his first full term in a predominently red district and he's scared a "yay" vote will cost him his re-election. He should have received my letter this morning, though, for what that's worth. The majority of Americans would support this bill if not for the tens (if not hundreds) of millions of dollars being pumped into the GOP ad campaigns and congressional campaign contributions by the health insurance lobbies, which has effectively made a lot of people scared of this bill. And, it's no coincidence that photos of President Obama as a child in Indonesia are coming out in the national media today. Funny thing is it's being labeled "Obama Care" when he had nothing to do with drafting this bill. Follow the money. See which Senators and Congressmen vote "nay" and see which ones receive the most money from the HMOs in campaign contributions. You won't be surprised. Figures don't lie and liars can't figure.
Giving back: Local football great shares success 3/18/2010 9:44:00 AM
Celeste at 3/19/2010 8:29:00 AM: It's always great to see positive things going on in Columbus. The city has changed so much since 1994. Our youth definitely need guidance and hopefully more of our hometown celebrities will come back and try to make a positive impact on their lives. Thanks alot Leslie for taking the time out to place your positive footprint on Columbus.
Columbus teen dies in early morning house fire 3/18/2010 8:56:00 AM
helm at 3/19/2010 8:18:00 AM: the fire department provides free smoke detectors to the citizens of columbus. Its just that people really do not think of the dangers of a fire until it strikes home. and when people do not take the basic steps of safety thats when tradgedy strikes home.Prayer to the family and victim.
DUIs on the rise in Starkville, Columbus 3/18/2010 9:44:00 AM
outlaw at 3/19/2010 8:08:00 AM: I wonder what the conviction rate is on all of these arrests? My guess if very low. Every super trooper out there making all of these arrests is out to get anyone and everyone regardless, not to make the streets safer, but to raise revenue and cut backdoor deals. The lawyers and the cops have a great setup... there will be more and more dui arrests year over year... not because there are more drunk drivers, but because of greed.

Helmet ordinance hearing draws mixed reaction 3/17/2010 10:55:00 AM
Parenting Skills at 3/19/2010 7:53:00 AM: So Ben Carver says that we have kids riding their bikes around when "half of them don't know their street address." Well, I guess the ordinance opponents are right. We have bigger issues than cycling helmets in Starkville.... sounds like parents of half of Starkville children have incompetent parents.

Furthermore, if they don't know their own street address, I suppose that it asking far too much for their parents to teach these kids safe cycling skills, rules of the road, etc.
VIDEO: Local Tea Party rallies in Columbus against health care plan 3/17/2010 11:52:00 AM
Raider at 3/19/2010 7:40:00 AM: You are absolutely right Mike Cooper. I can tell you did your homework. Mike, you may have read the whole proposed bill but I don't know how you reached the conclusion that the bill could not be changed...every law can be changed by subsequent laws. Even the Constitution can be changed. For those folks that keep repeating the Republican talking points about the cost of the bill, the CBO should have put that argument to rest. As the CBO says and Mike Cooper pointed out, this bill will cut the deficit. Unlike the republicans, the Dems fashioned the bill so that it would not add to the deficit. When Bush and the Republicans were in charge, the DID NOT pay for the two Bush tax cuts, the prescription drug plan, the 2 wars. I didn't hear a single CONSERVATIVE group yelling about the cost at that time. During the Bush years, I remember a number of bills coming forward that the public was against and the response from the Republicans was "President Bush doesn't go by the polls, HE follows HIS convictions and what HE believes is best for America." That being said, I believe the American people do support health reform. The they are told what's really in this bill without the lies the Republican claim about the bill, the bill has overwhelming support of the people. Finally, if the Republicans supported health care reform, they would have passed it when they were in charge. They rammed through every other piece of legislation that was designed to benefit thier rich constituents.
Barbour trims another $41 million from budget; cuts total $499.5 million 3/17/2010 4:16:00 PM
Greg at 3/19/2010 6:11:00 AM: We could save some money with the school system by dropping the year round school and going back to the 9 month school year like it use to be. We seen the results and it hasn't improved very much if at all. Then we could try teaching the kids better, and maybe simplier. What I mean by that is to just get back to the basics. My daughter comes home from 4th grade with math homework that my wife and I can't understand so it's difficult to help her. I never did my math by counting dots on my numbers. Just learn the numbers and stop all these corny learning techniques. It confuses the kids!
Columbus teen dies in early morning house fire 3/18/2010 8:56:00 AM
melissa at 3/19/2010: I am so sorry about the accident at your home...So sad...I was your neighbor until recently...May God help you cope with the pain and put his angels around you to give you some peace...

VIDEO: Local Tea Party rallies in Columbus against health care plan 3/17/2010 11:52:00 AM
Mike Cooper at 3/18/2010 11:43:00 PM:
Nice to meet you Mike McCullough,, but you did not read the entire bill because the final version is not even finished yet. And, if you tried to read the entire bill with all its special projects, get a life. No offense intended but you should hope the dems are able get back half the budget surplus they handed George W. nine (9) years ago when he took office that the GOP turned into this huge deficit we now are dealing with. The CBO, that's the non-partisan Congressional Budget Office, just determined this bill reduces the federal deficit by $138 billion (with a B) over the next ten years and reduces the federal deficit by nearly a trillion (with a T) over the next 20 years, which is probably how long it take to re-gain the tax payer surplus squandered away by the previous administration, while at the same time covering millions of more Americans with health insurance. And, Mike, you seem to be confusing "trade deficit" with "budget defecit" when you bring up China, who by the way has nothing to do with this. There is a difference between budget deficit and trade deficit, so let's discuss sanity why don't we? I believe, Mike, you may have fallen victim to the same fear tactics that led us into 2 wars; and, all you hear on Fox News is what the GOP is wanting you to hear. But, that's ok Mike, I understand your position if you are wealthy. And perhaps you are one of the few that still has health insurance, never had a premium increase or a deductible increase or a co-pay increase over the last five years and can easily afford your health insurance premiums for your family. And maybe you still can afford your premiums five years from now at the rate they have increased over the last five years, then, I understand why you like the status quo. Congratulations on your success. But what if you develop a major medical problem and your insurance company decides to drop you? Could you afford the whole bill? Because then you would be un-insurable the way things are now. But, if you are not that rich, then it's your children and grandchildren, and mine by the way, for whom I would like to be able to afford health care. So, again Mike, its not the health "care" that's at issue here. We have the best doctors, hospitals, diagnostic equipment in the world. But it's the rising cost of that health care and the subsequent rising premiums charged by the health insurance companies that, left unchecked, will make it impossible for most all of us to afford in the very near future and will probably be impossible for your children to afford when they turn 25, if nothing is done about it, or unless you are a millionaire. Believe me when I say I have checked my facts.
Mike at 3/18/2010 10:43:00 PM: RON made sense.. I too have traveled overseas and been subjected to the "so called" healthcare they have there.. It sux. SS is broke along with all the other things Ron listed.. This country is basically broke. Better hope China don't come calling in their markers within the next 50 yrs. If I ran my checkbook like the DEMS run our country's I would be in JAIL. Mike Cooper you need to brush-up on facts before you engage your opinions as you have unless you like sane people laughing at you. My name is Mike McCullough and I HAVE READ the WHOLE HEALTH CARE BILL..BY the way.. IF it is passed as written it CAN NOT BE CHANGED or OVERTURNED Pg.1000 sec.3403 so what is the HUGE HURRY?? THIS is our LIVES and our Childrens/Grandchildrens lives we are talking about here...WHY can't we as American TAXPAYERS VOTE on this??? No way would it pass...
DUIs on the rise in Starkville, Columbus 3/18/2010 9:44:00 AM
bulldawg at 3/18/2010 9:13:00 PM: Know where you're coming from. There use to be this lawyer from West Point they called the DUI lawyer. He was the one you called to get you out of a DUI. He was connected with that strip club up there so he had a pretty good racket going. He got a lot of students out of tickets. Heard he was an offical or judge or something up there now.
Go figure.
DJ at 3/18/2010 8:42:00 PM: Okay but what about the fat cat lawyers that get the money by getting these people off? And what about the little guy who can't afford them? They have to pay while those who can don't. They had a DUI officer in West Point making all kinds of arrest and tickets until he gave some to "friends" of friends and then he was gone. Bust them but make them all pay. Don't let the hot shots get them off. They can take lives just like the little guy can.
Stansbury through with criticism of officiating 3/17/2010 11:38:00 AM
wAIT TIL NEXT YEAR at 3/18/2010 8:03:00 PM: POOR POOR STATE: ALWAYS A REASON FOR LOOSING THE SEASON !!!!!!!
VIDEO: Local Tea Party rallies in Columbus against health care plan 3/17/2010 11:52:00 AM
Raider at 3/18/2010 7:41:00 PM: Thank you Patty for that comment. I'm glad to see a healthy debate without the name calling. I truly believe that we need a national health care program. I hope that at some point down the road we implement a strong public option plan. And, before anyone tells me to go to work and pay for my own health care...I already did. I am retired military. So, I have already earned my health coverage. That being said, I grew up poor, in a very poor county in a poor state. We didn't have health care until I was in high school and hardly anybody I knew had health care. Most of our parents was lucky enough to have minimum wage jobs and made too much to be on Medicaid. When I was in high school, my mom and dad divorced and my mom was able to qualify for medicaid at that point. It made a workld a difference for us. I knew many people who lost limbs because they couldn't afford diabetes medicine and ultimately ended up dying much earlier than they would have if they had health insurance. I knew many men who lost thier jobs because they could not go to work because of injuries they recieved on the job and they couldn't afford to go to the doctor. I was willing to pay higher taxes for national health care well before Hillary Clinton because I knew what a difference it could make. I suspect I will make too much too qualify for any tax breaks in the new health program but what ever the cost, i will gladly pay it because in the end, I truly believe it's good for America.
Mike Cooper at 3/18/2010 7:20:00 PM: In my conclusion, this has been a rather emotional and spirited on-line debate prompted by some folks organizing a "tea party" in front of Congressman Travis Childers' office in downtown Columbus. Folks that most likely had no clue about the details in the bill against which they were protesting. But, with the cost numbers published by the Congressional Budget Office today, I project the bill will pass by Sunday and any further debate probably should have been done over a year ago. But, this bill is not the "big government" bill as it's being portrayed by party of "no". And, I think those of you in opposition to the bill should just relax cause every little thing gonna still be alright. Thank you for your time and attention to this issue.
Ron at 3/18/2010 6:49:00 PM: Patty,

I would say that your relative was very fortunate. Normally under the NHS she would not be eligible. I refer you to an article in the London Daily Mail by Chris Brooke, Feb 28, 2008. The headline is: NHS chiefs tell grandmother, 61, she's 'too old' for £5,000 life-saving heart surgery. In another article by David Rose April 23, 2009 in the Times Online: Girl, 3, has heart operation canceled three times because of bed shortage. Then there is the article in The Guardian by John Carvel, March 28, 2008: Women in labour turned away by maternity units. Or the article by Jenny Hope, March 24, 2008 in the Daily Mail: Lung patients 'condemned to death as NHS withdraws their too expensive drugs'.

I don't know how much of this you need to see (I have a LOT MORE) before you conclude that the NHS in the UK is inhumane at best. Such would never be tolerated in the USA. This however, is where Obama care is headed. It will be modeled after the British National Health Service (NHS). This is outlined in Tom Daschle's book "Critical" Daschle would have been healthcare czar if he had paid his taxes.

Again I hope you will consider my offer of meeting with you guys in person if you want.
Columbus teen dies in early morning house fire 3/18/2010 8:56:00 AM
TD at 3/18/2010 6:33:00 PM: I agree HipHop that fundraising is the wrong word choice. Awareness and individual responsibility is essential to any type of accident prevention.

This is an awful tradegy. But like any accident, in most cases it's preventable if people will stop relying on others and rely on themselves.
DUIs on the rise in Starkville, Columbus 3/18/2010 9:44:00 AM
DM at 3/18/2010 6:22:00 PM: Well, "progress", that works for me. I'm not a fan of big government or a lot of things going on now, but anybody who's "f'n retarded" enough to drink and drive deserves to have their money taken away from them. Eventually their rights, too. Maybe then they'll eventually stop doing it, before they take someone else's LIFE away.

It can be the Golden Triangle's very own version of "To Catch A Drunk". Bring in Chris Hansen!
VIDEO: Local Tea Party rallies in Columbus against health care plan 3/17/2010 11:52:00 AM
Patty at 3/18/2010 6:20:00 PM: This one is for Ron and anyone that believes what he wrote: My elderly relative (late 70s)in England recently was admitted to hospital for a procedure on her heart. The surgeon said he was not satisfied with just doing that procedure, that she was in need of much more extensive work, and would she be alright with being transferred to a hospital with the facilities needed. She agreed, was transported by ambulance, had the surgery, recovered, went home, had in-home visits from nurses and her local doctor. All this with no charges to her - on the National Health. What does anyone dislike about this treatment? Do not believe the propaganda of the "I'm alright - what is your problem?" fat cats.
Lost jobs and the federal government 3/18/2010 10:52:00 AM
T.E.Williams at 3/18/2010 6:16:00 PM: Obama and his cast of idiots should spend a lot more time on jobs and high fuel prices instead of the "health care bill" that will break the country. He needs to have all the oil executives in front of a congressional committee and explain why we have to pay so much for oil and fuel.Start drilling for oil on our soil and stop being dependent on foreign countries that don't even like the USA.Fuel prices effect everything we do in life and everything we buy.People have to save money to buy gas to go to work and cut back on going out and trying to have a good time with their families. I would love to see a nation wide boycott of the gas companies. Start with one company and boycott anything they have their name on for a month. Their storage tanks would fill up and with no one to send it to, they would have to drop prices to get rid of it.These companies could set a price per gallon at $1.75 a gallon and still make a big profit. Lower prices would mean people would be able to travel more and buy more.Obama needs to do away with NAFTA!!! That was the biggest goof this country has made in a long time,except for electing this clown! These companies that have gone overseas need to be taxed so high that they could not make a profit off hard working AMERICANS.These taxes could go toward the national debt that our children are going to have to deal with.I could say a lot more,but my blood pressure is geting high. Wake up AMERICA! Let's take our country back!
Domtar closing: Sad and painful news 3/18/2010 3:41:00 PM
Dhiimond Jackson at 3/18/2010 6:12:00 PM: This is RIDICULOUS!!!! I am not sure just what is exactly going on with our government leaders in Mississippi, and in the United States overall. Something has got to give! People are wanting to work desperately, yet there are no jobs! I guess the government wants to make the entire U.S. live off of it (the government).

I sure pray for all of you who have lost your jobs. Times are so so sad right now. It is surely a time for prayer and getting closer to God.
VIDEO: Local Tea Party rallies in Columbus against health care plan 3/17/2010 11:52:00 AM
Ron at 3/18/2010 6:01:00 PM: Mike: I didn't mean to imply that I had printed it out. I have it in .PDF format and Acrobat informs me that there are 2409 pages. I don't have any VA benefits. JR: I am not aware that many seniors have to travel out of the country to buy their meds. Many meds are available here that are not available under socialized medicine plans in Europe. I noticed that a Canadian government minister came to Florida when he needed an operation. Why is American healthcare better? Because anyone of any age here has full access to healthcare. My 94 year old dad had major surgery two years ago. Without it he would have died a long painful death. That is not available anywhere else in the world for a 93 year old man. If you are over the age of 60 in the UK, you are not eligible for ANY heart surgery for example.

I will make you guys a deal: If you will organize a group get together in Columbus or Starkville, I will come there and give a talk on healthcare and you can ask questions and we will discuss the issues. A meeting place (room) can be arranged at a local restaurant, normally without charge. If you accept my offer, (I pay my own expenses) make a posting here and I will give you my e-mail address and we can work out a time and place. You guys seem open minded so I am willing to do this if you want. Invite anyone and/or as many as you want.
Barbour trims another $41 million from budget; cuts total $499.5 million 3/17/2010 4:16:00 PM
ken at 3/18/2010 5:21:00 PM: MB, again I agree. I have believed for a long time, that Ms ranking close to or on the bottom in so many area's is a direct reflection of the mentality of those who are in the majority in the house.
Aldermen pick Tomlinson for school board 3/17/2010 10:55:00 AM
colfax at 3/18/2010 5:20:00 PM: This is more about the facts and not about the Aldermen, School Board or even Mayor. The fact is that there are majority and minority races in the community. The minority (majority) race is poised to be in the drivers seat. The majority (now minority) must accept the change. The change they are facing is present from Laurel, Meridian, Macon, West Point, Okolona, Shannon and soon Tupelo. Starkville is just next on the list and now everyone is aware. The 3 year old stats someone quoted earlier are way out of line. There has been at least a 10% shift in the last 3 years. The next shift has started.
Woody at 3/18/2010 4:44:00 PM: I supported this mayor but no more. This IS discrimination and unfair to Mrs. Tomlinson. This might look good on the mayor's resume, but will backfire with the reasonable people of Starkville.
Starkvillian at 3/18/2010 4:19:00 PM: "Not discounting the minority vote. What would minorities say if the situation were reversed and Wiseman were to say "Hey, we can't except a black candidate hear b/c of the racial composition of the board"?"

That's a good question. I think if the community were 65% white and yet the school board was 80% minority (which, I think we all know, isn't going to happen in MS anytime soon) then the white parents would be glad and they minority parents would be upset if the mayor vetoed a minority candidate. But, in that case the mayor probably wouldn't say that the minority candidate was being vetoed because of race, they'd say it was for lack of ability or experience or whatever and no one would question it but everyone would know why it happened. Race here in Mississippi is a sensitive subject. I'm not saying it's not discrimination, I'm just saying a lot of complicated factors come into play here.

And your hypothetical statement by Wiseman is cracking me up, but I'm assuming you made the spelling errors on purpose to emphasize his bad decision here.
BoardtownDawg at 3/18/2010 3:49:00 PM: Starkvillian,

Not discounting the minority vote. What would minorities say if the situation were reversed and Wiseman were to say "Hey, we can't except a black candidate hear b/c of the racial composition of the board"? Discrimination is discrimination, plain and simple!

I can't speak to the after prom party you are alluding to, but I can say that there have been MANY black families who are in favor of uniforms.


DUIs on the rise in Starkville, Columbus 3/18/2010 9:44:00 AM
RB at 3/18/2010 3:47:00 PM: Being a parent, I like the idea of the police department getting these drunks off the road. So many innocent people are killed and injured by drunk drivers. As far as the DUI fine is concerned, most of these people don't pay them or their parents pay for them.
Aldermen pick Tomlinson for school board 3/17/2010 10:55:00 AM
Starkvillian at 3/18/2010 3:35:00 PM: I wouldn't be so quick to discount the minority vote. The black population in Starkville is already pretty hot about those uniforms, which will hit their pockets the hardest. This appointment probably didn't help cool things, especially with the rumblings about the segregated after-prom party and Tomlinson's role there. Minorities compose a significant portion of the population and without that vote it would be hard to win any race in Starkville.

There hasn't been much Wiseman has done in his life without some future political goal or agenda in mind. I think there's plenty of indication that this is a well thought out move by him and maybe even the board.

I just feel bad for Mrs. Tomlinson in it all. She was a good candidate and has done a lot for Starkville Schools.
VIDEO: Local Tea Party rallies in Columbus against health care plan 3/17/2010 11:52:00 AM
Greg at 3/18/2010 3:34:00 PM: JR,

Well your right, we will have to disagree on this issue, but you do make some valid points. I still think "overall", per capita and population, we still have the best. Thanks for the response.
Mike Cooper at 3/18/2010 3:30:00 PM: You have a right to your opinion, Ron. But, Social Security is not broke, Medicare and Medicaid are not broke and neither are Amtrak or the Post Office. Perhaps they are trending in that direction but they are not broke. Next, I don't believe you printed the bill, that sounds much like a bluff to me. But, I do believe you will continue to draw your VA benefits, which is a good thing. Our actual health"care" is not the issue here, we do indeed have the best health"care" in the world. The issue is the cost of that care and the insurance we buy to help pay for that care.
JR at 3/18/2010 3:26:00 PM: Concerned,

You said, "One, we have the best healthcare in the world period! No one can deny that." I actually am denying that. How do you define "best"? I gave two indicators that showed we are far from first in the world and there are many others I could have used. For example, many seniors travel by the busload to Canada and Mexico to purchase their prescriptions. It's embarrassing to me that we have a system where the elderly have to go out of their way across multiple state lines to procure live saving medicines. We may end up having to simply agree to disagree on this issue, but that's what is really so great about America.
Greg at 3/18/2010 3:25:00 PM: Ron, It is nice to know of your personal experience under a gov't controlled healthcare program and believe that you could offer insight to such but this bill is not really what you call government run healthcare. There is no "single payer sytem" in place with this legislation. It could become that at some point in the future but that's why we have elections. There are some good ideas in this legislation but I have to agree with you that I cannot support it in it's current form.
Ron at 3/18/2010 3:11:00 PM: For KJ Mike Cooper and Patty, I would say that I am strongly apposed to Obama care as proposed. Yes I have a copy of the bill, all 2409 pages of it if you want a copy, I will send you a copy. I lived under socialized medicine in Europe (Germany, Austria and the Czech Republic).
I lived 'on the economy' with my family and am intimately familiar with European socialized medicine from the patients perspective. If you think European socialized medicine is even on a par with American health-care, you must be smoking old socks. I am quite well informed on the issues and if you want to debate me I would be glad to do it. As for Raider: What is Limbaugh, Beck or Palin making up? I have heard nothing but facts from them.

Let me see... Social Security is broke, Medicare is broke, Medicaid is broke, Amtrak is broke, the Post office is broke. Who in their right mind would turn healthcare over to the Government?

American healthcare is the best in the world and there is no reason to screw it up.
Barbour trims another $41 million from budget; cuts total $499.5 million 3/17/2010 4:16:00 PM
MB at 3/18/2010 3:05:00 PM: Well the ACLU is supposed to be out there for the people that are getting shafted or discriminated against and the Democrat Party leaders here in Mississippi have refused to do anything about how bad education sucks here in Mississippi. The Mississippi Democrat party is discriminating against all of the school children black and white because they are not and will not make changes to fix education!! What better way for the ACLU to do something good than to file a lawsuit on behalf of all of the students of Mississippi against the party that has been in control of the House for over 20 years?
DUIs on the rise in Starkville, Columbus 3/18/2010 9:44:00 AM
progress at 3/18/2010 2:59:00 PM: It is all about revenue raising Josh! Get them drunk, collect all of that extra tax money from the sales, then pull them over and write tickets! Do you not understand how the gov'mnt works? It is cut and dried and all in the name of progress!
VIDEO: Local Tea Party rallies in Columbus against health care plan 3/17/2010 11:52:00 AM
Greg at 3/18/2010 2:57:00 PM: Mike, You have part of it right and I do agree with you on some points. I will admit you said nothing about "ripoffs" sorry. All of our ideas in some shape or fashion are included but again I have to talk about the cost of it all. You see, thats what this is all about, people talking and taking ideas to form a plan of action. I bet me and you could get together and come up with a plan for healthcare that would cost much less, reform health insurance companies, provide some basic coverage to those that don't have it, cut the fat from programs that already exist and do it without any special interest. That's the problem, to many people on both sides cutting deals or looking out for their jobs in the future instead of being just like you and me and the concern for the real issues at hand. Just like we've said in the last year, the American people are talking, just listen to us. For all I care Mike, you and I should be in Washington, just normal people, strong convictions but common sense. But we all know that will never happen because of the problems with money, resources, and special interest around. Mike, I hope your right and this will work, although I don't agree it will.
A wee taste o’ the Irish 3/18/2010 9:27:00 AM
Mr. Food at 3/18/2010 2:51:00 PM: Oooooooooooooooh, it's so gooooood!
Columbus teen dies in early morning house fire 3/18/2010 8:56:00 AM
The Hip Hop Junkie at 3/18/2010 2:48:00 PM: Maybe fund-raising was the wrong choice of words or course of action ,but When events like this keep reoccurring something should be done to raise the level of awareness. Activity breeds Activity!

God Never Leaves Us and does not put more on us than we can bear. Amen!
VIDEO: Local Tea Party rallies in Columbus against health care plan 3/17/2010 11:52:00 AM
Mike Cooper at 3/18/2010 2:41:00 PM: In response to 'Concerned'. Greg you strike me as being one "on the fense" regarding this legislation. And, I appreciate your perspective. It's true the health insurance companies are doing as any other business and making as much money as they can. But, I didn't call them a 'ripoff', they just have no competition across state lines. The item that will prevent them from raising premiums is the item that allows competition among health insurance companies across state lines and the elimination of the term pre-exhisting. These items alone will allow basic economics to determine price. I dont know the answer to your question about unhealthy people buying into pools, but I believe in your personal situation, the status quo will bring you higher premiums, deductibles, and co-pays each year until you reach the maximum pay out and you are dropped. And, like I said, this bill is not perfect. But, it's a good place to start. And, correct me if I'm wrong, but all health care professional don't oppose this legistation either.
Aldermen pick Tomlinson for school board 3/17/2010 10:55:00 AM
BoardtownDawg at 3/18/2010 2:40:00 PM: Well, he did veto. A copy of the document is at the link below:

http://starkville-now.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/school-board-veto00011.pdf

I think he will definitely be a "1 and Done" Mayor.
VIDEO: Local Tea Party rallies in Columbus against health care plan 3/17/2010 11:52:00 AM
Mike Cooper at 3/18/2010 2:19:00 PM: I assure you I have no intentions of calling anyone apparently fearful and seemingly convinced this bill will flush our system of health down the toilet. Do me a huge favor, change off the Fox news channel and try to get some unbiased facts about the bill.
Concerned at 3/18/2010 2:04:00 PM: Mike, You do make some good points about the health insurance companies making millions of dollars. But is that not what any business does? If you realisticly look at the books you will find that they have a profit range of around 4% and that they spend 80 to 85 percent on actual benefits, so 10 to 15% is used for administrative cost. Please look at this before you call all insurance companies ripoff's. I do agree that anyone that has had insurance should not be dropped when losing their job or changing jobs. I also owned my own business at one time and was unable to get coverage for my daughter with diabetes, I had to put in her the State Health Risk Insurance Pool and paid premiums not only for her that were about $200 per month but also myself, wife, and other child that cost me about $500 per month just for major medical. I realize where your coming from but can you tell me what particular items are in this bill to keep insurance companies from raising premiums? What keeps them from pooling all the unhealthy people together and still making them pay more? The Prtesident himself said just yesterday that many people will be able to buy in these "pools", but what's the cost going to be. I feel that you want a single payer system, which is in reality the only fair way for everyone to be included, all the sick and all the healthy, which is what most European countries have, but are you will to get less for what you pay for? Just a thought. Oh, and by the way, my name is Greg, and I am in the healthcare delivery system and see this everyday from a provider and insured individuals view. Not all healthcare professionals support this legislation in its current form but I do know we need some changes to help evryone involved.
Barbour trims another $41 million from budget; cuts total $499.5 million 3/17/2010 4:16:00 PM
ken at 3/18/2010 1:45:00 PM: Nervous, Jan, Joe & MB , I agree with you all 100 %
But MB, I'm not sure about that ACLU part. To me they are also a very big part of the problem both in MS and the USA as a whole.
VIDEO: Local Tea Party rallies in Columbus against health care plan 3/17/2010 11:52:00 AM
hk at 3/18/2010 1:44:00 PM: my name does not matter--I do not live there.. what are you going to do--call me and talk about it further? You will not change my mind.. my point is plain--I hope for the sake of the country as we know it--I hope this does not flush our system of health down the toilet!
Mike Cooper at 3/18/2010 1:30:00 PM: I'm confident enough now to identify myself when commenting on this issue. What's your point?
S B at 3/18/2010 1:27:00 PM: Nobody is saying that health care should not be fixed, but this large scale government takeover is only going to make the problem worse. You can not wrap garbage in rainbow wraping paper and assume its not garbage. Once its opened evryone that has been drinking the coolaid will see it for what it truly is. Leave it to the people to change the system, then we will get results. We did have these troubles until the government got involved years ago. This bill will be a political acheivment and thats all. Our grandchildren will be paying for this for years. Ask yourself why they are going collect the extra tax's for ten years and only supply the services for 6 years! And after the 6 years then what, there is no plan to pay for it, but then system is in place. This is the problem with Englands health care system the people don't want the government care but 13 million people are now employed by that system, now there stuck!If the government is going to do something it should be done it steps to make sure it works, that would be the responsible thing to do. This is to big and has such an impact just to do something just to do something.
hk at 3/18/2010 1:17:00 PM: Mike Cooper---do me a huge favor ---save all of your statements--read them back to yourself in 2 years.. I hope and pray you will still be so confident..
Mike Cooper at 3/18/2010 1:09:00 PM: Apparently, the GOP fear tactics are still alive and well and have made it all the way to our little community. Nobody is going to be forced to buy healthcare who can't afford it; and, unless you make more than a quarter of a million dollars a year, you won't see any tax increase. Sounds like some would like to see this country divided into the 'haves' and the 'have nots'. Which if I were a CEO of a health insurance company or still healthy making what I used to make when I had health insurance, I might feel the same selfish way. But, it doesn't equate to how hard one works regarding health care. One can work hard all their life and suddenly get a disease that can take their house away from them in our exhisting system. To me, that's not American and needs to be fixed. I agree we should take care of our own before taking care of the rest of the world. But, I disagree with the government maintaining the status quo while the insurance companies cherry pick only the healthy from which to insure and collect premiums and continue to realize significant profits while folks in Nevanda and Texas and every other state are losing their houses because they got sick and left hung out to dry by their insurance company maximums and/or their employer or probably both. I bet I can pick which ones of you still have decent jobs and health insurance. I bet I can name those who never had to change jobs only to be denied health insurance by the new group at your new job because you had some condition 5 years ago. Consider yourselves lucky. I hope and pray your luck continues for the rest of your lives. But, the day your luck changes for the worse and you lose all of that through no fault of your own, will be the day your perspective changes, I promise. This bill is the result of over a year of congressional debate and has the best ideas from both parties and is a good place to start. Is it perfect? No. But, it's a good place to start to remedy a long overdue problem for a huge number of Americans.
Gavin: City ‘doing really well’ 3/17/2010 11:00:00 AM
jason at 3/18/2010 1:03:00 PM: Why are the streets in such BAD shape if we have 5 million in the bank? If this is true then someone is not doing their job. Pot holes, trash and traffic lights not in timing. Who is the maint. person for the street dept. ? Need to park all the pickups I see running around town (with 6 - 8 people) everyday. Somebody has to get a handle of this. I never see any one patching pot holes ! Where are the people all winter that cut grass last summer. Are they still on payroll?
VIDEO: Local Tea Party rallies in Columbus against health care plan 3/17/2010 11:52:00 AM
Concerned at 3/18/2010 12:50:00 PM: JR,
I feel the same way about the spending issues, we should spend more of our money at home instead of abroad. As for the war in Iraq, it probably wasn't worth the amount of money or loss of fine men and women but at the time, the gov't and I mean both parties supported the move because of the information provided, enough about that though let's get back to the subject. One, we have the best healthcare in the world period! No one can deny that. What I want to ask you is do you think that by providing 30 million more people with healthcare insurance your going to still be able to see your healthcare provider any faster or the about the same? Do you realize that only 5% of medical students are looking at Internal Medicine or Primary Care providers? Do you realize that there are already not enough doctors to serve the people we already have? Do you realize that most doctors are now in the age range for retirement? Do you realize that the gov't is going to control cost by setting prices that doctors can charge or be reimbursted for? If you went to school for, oh say, 10 years and spent or went in debt to be a doctor at the cost of about $200,000 would you go in family medicine and have to see 50 patients a day to make 200,000 a year and not to mention the overhead, rent, malpractice insurance and etc? Like I said before, we need to do some things, I won't argue about that, but at what cost are we will to do these things? I don't know what is going to happen if it passes and most of us won't see ant effects from it other than increases in our Medicare taken out of our check, for 4 to 6 years. I am fortunate to have health insurance but it is costly and could be called a "Cadillac" plan( low deductible, dental, vision, etc). So does that mean it's going to be taxed? Probably, but what about the unions that have the same type of plan and are going to be exempt for 4 yrs, is that fair? My only hope for this country is that we don't get into a situation of being so overburdened with debt that we "all" end up having to pay by very large tax increase, oh lets say around the 50% range for most Americans just to keep from going bankrupt.
Aldermen pick Tomlinson for school board 3/17/2010 10:55:00 AM
BoardtownDawg at 3/18/2010 12:29:00 PM: What is the gender make up of the schools? The report card does not list gender makeup of the schools, but odds are the ratio is close to 50/50 +/- 10%, but only one female is on the board. We shouldn't look at the demographics as much as we should look at who the BEST candidate is. A veto is essentially saying "White people and women need not apply". In the end one would think the board would override the veto rather than go back through the process again. But considering the kids don't know what they are doing, there is no telling what is about to happen.
Columbus teen dies in early morning house fire 3/18/2010 8:56:00 AM
Glennda at 3/18/2010 12:24:00 PM: What an awful tragedy! My heartful sympathies go to the family. May God be with you in this difficult time.
Helmet ordinance hearing draws mixed reaction 3/17/2010 10:55:00 AM
JC at 3/18/2010 12:24:00 PM: Speaking of the nanny state, how come the government builds roads where IT wants them and not where I want them??? I should be able to drive wherever I feel like, not just where some pencil-necked bureaucrat decides to put a road. And how come I can't build my own atom bomb without the government sticking its big fat nose into my personal business? Where does it all end?

WAKE UP SHEEPLE
Nathan Bedford Forrest in West Point 3/18/2010 10:48:00 AM
JC at 3/18/2010 12:10:00 PM: Nathan Bedford Forrest... hmmm... didn't he help found some sort of fraternal organization or other after the Wawuh of Nawthun Aggression?
Columbus teen dies in early morning house fire 3/18/2010 8:56:00 AM
NO at 3/18/2010 12:07:00 PM: Fundraising for smoke alarms? Really? As tragic as this is, there is no need for fundraising. Smoke detectors are 5 bucks at K-Mart. People should take responsibility for their own safety, not "we the people". My prayers go out to the family.
VIDEO: Local Tea Party rallies in Columbus against health care plan 3/17/2010 11:52:00 AM
JC at 3/18/2010 12:03:00 PM: These dead-enders don't know anything about the health-care bill. All they know is that Obama's fer it, so they're agin' it!
DUIs on the rise in Starkville, Columbus 3/18/2010 9:44:00 AM
Josh at 3/18/2010 11:57:00 AM: I wondered who would be the first idiot to blame Sunday alcohol sales on this. Sunday alcohol sales didn't event go into effect until the last part of the year so I highly doubt the number of DUI's that were recorded in that time frame was so huge that it put the overall yearly total over the limit.
VIDEO: Local Tea Party rallies in Columbus against health care plan 3/17/2010 11:52:00 AM
S B at 3/18/2010 11:57:00 AM: Wow, that's all I can say. One word can sum up the issue here reality!
Is there one person who can say that the government does what it say's its going to. First of all let's look at history. Social Security, Medicare/Medicaid, the Post Office and many other government programs will be broke because of unfunded liabilities. What in the world makes you think that this program will be any different? Second it's called personal accountability! It is not a constitutional right for health care bottom line. For those that complain about health care do you pay for cable, cell phone, what kind of car do you drive? It is not the responsibility of a person in Nevada to pay for a person's health care in Texas. Health care needs reform but this not the way to do it. It has not worked in Tennessee or Massachusetts both programs are broke. Life is hard, those that get subsidized care will just be carried on the backs of those who have worked harder than them, and planned through life. You can't look at individual cases. You have to look at what is right for the nation as a whole. You have the right to succeed as well as fail in this country and that is the right that we should defend. So let's do the right thing and fix health care the right way and minimize government involvement. Earn your entitlements in life from hard work!

DUIs on the rise in Starkville, Columbus 3/18/2010 9:44:00 AM
progress at 3/18/2010 11:44:00 AM: We need to get them drunk with the Sunday alcohol sales, which brings in HUGE tax revenues for the cities, then put the DUI officers right outside the places where they drink. As soon as they get out on the road arrest them for DUI! They can get that $1300+ fine and increase that revenue also! This is progress and moving up in the world! I say bust the heck out of those Sunday drunks and bring that money in, all in the name of PROGRESS!!!
VIDEO: Local Tea Party rallies in Columbus against health care plan 3/17/2010 11:52:00 AM
JR at 3/18/2010 11:39:00 AM: I remember while protesting the spending of billions of US dollars during the Iraq War having people yell at me for being unpatriotic and a traitor. Personally, I believe if we're going to spend that kind of money that it should be spent at home, bolstering our own citizens and preserving the health of Americans. No industrialized country in the world that has healthcare has chosen to abolish it. It concerns me that America is no longer a leader in the world based on factors such as life expectancy (24th) or preventable deaths (14th). While I don't fault many tea partiers for wanting to express their concerns and I do believe some of them are well-meaning people, I fear that they are being mislead and used by politicians and private healthcare companies for personal gain.
Aldermen pick Tomlinson for school board 3/17/2010 10:55:00 AM
Starkvillian at 3/18/2010 11:30:00 AM: I don't know about the city as a whole, but the make-up in the city schools is 65% black, 30% white, 5% other according to the 2008 report card. County schools are 92% black, 8% white.

I don't like that the board is not reflective of the racial make-up of the schools, but I also don't think we had a good minority candidate this round. Actually we did have some but one withdrew and the other got booted by the AG's decision.

I heard that Dr. Conley gave all the right answers in the interviews, but it is troublesome what he did with the county schools. However, if Starkville schools stay on their current path we'll be wards of the state soon too, so maybe the thought is that his expertise in that area will help...

If the vote is vetoed and the pool of candidates is reopened, then the veto would make sense. It would give an opportunity for some better minority candidates to throw their hats in the race. Call it racial division or whatever, but I think the board wanted to appoint a minority, they just didn't have a good one to choose from. In my opinion, it is important that the minority population of Starkville Schools have representation on the school board more in line with their make-up of the student population.
Columbus teen dies in early morning house fire 3/18/2010 8:56:00 AM
The HipHop Junkie at 3/18/2010 11:05:00 AM: Looks like we the people need to get together with the local fire departments and do sum sort of fund raising to make sure that everyone has fire alarms that WORK.
Stansbury through with criticism of officiating 3/17/2010 11:38:00 AM
MSU fan at 3/18/2010 11:02:00 AM: I'm a big MSU fan but agree that complaining just makes us look like sore losers. It's time we quit waiting to win and go out and take control of the situation ourselves. That's what winners and champions do. No excuses, congratulations Kentucky.

That said, I was at the game where the water bottles were thrown and I can tell you that 99.9% of the people in the stands were furious at the couple of idiots who tossed the plastic bottles. Inexcusable behavior to be sure but blown out of proportion by the media.
Aldermen pick Tomlinson for school board 3/17/2010 10:55:00 AM
BoardtownDawg at 3/18/2010 10:44:00 AM: I'm hearing the same thing as Leroy regarding a pending veto. Some posts on Starkville-Now, too. I think a veto on this is political suicide- he will be overriden and this action will serve no purpose other than to create a larger racial divide, because his actions will be saying he thinks the Board chose the White candidate over the Black when the simple fact is Dr. Conley is a retired educator with a bad track record. Under Dr. Conley, the OC Schools were put under conservatorship by the State. Conley is not what we need. A bipartisan majority of the board see that. Perkins, puppet #1 Vaughn and apparently puppet #2 Wiseman do not.
VIDEO: Local Tea Party rallies in Columbus against health care plan 3/17/2010 11:52:00 AM
HK at 3/18/2010 10:42:00 AM: well said Concerned.. I feel they need to start over and actually listen to Americans appeals..
Concerned at 3/18/2010 10:29:00 AM: I see that both sides are repesented here and thats good. I, for one, am independent. I believe that there has to be some changes in healthcare, I believe there needs to be a way for everyone to get affordable health insurance, I believe that we have to control spending and keep this country solvent. The bill that is proposed does address alot of issue with ideas from both sides but more from the progressive point of view. I have to ask, if we insure 30 million more people, will that really bring down cost or give us better access to healthcare? If we cut Medicare and tax for 10 years for 6 years of benefits will the next 10 be neutral or cost less? If more people are given health insurance will the ER's around the country be more overwhelmed than they are? Why are some state's getting deals and other's are not? Is it constitutionally legal to mandate people to buy health insurance? Of course this is not nearly all the issues that we face. Should people be barred from getting insurance because of a pre-existing condition? Of course not! Like I said, I can see both sides but think that overall it will cost "all" of us too much in the future. Both parties could step back and look at working to fix some problems together without throwing everything into one pot. Take Mass. for example, their state has a healthcare system that has been in place for 4 years and has not controlled cost or premiums. They depend on the gov't to continually give them more money to help with healthcare cost. The program does cover 98% of state residents but tax increases have doubled in the past 3 years. I say pass this bill if you don't mind paying more taxes and limiting access, or defeat this particular bill and start over to make small adjustments instead of big ones. It's easier to fix a smaller problem than take the country into bankruptcy. Let's see if you can really cut 500 million from Medicare before spending twice that much on national healthcare.
debug at 3/18/2010 10:12:00 AM: CBO is non-partisan? That is hilarious!
Citizens protest handling of Aberdeen scandal 3/17/2010 10:55:00 AM
concerned at 3/18/2010 10:02:00 AM: Why when anything goes wrong do people instantly say that Alcohol started the problem??? I don't see what Alcohol has to do with the situation myself. I believe that it began with people or a person who tried to get away with stealing and that's it nothing more. I do believe that the people of Aberdeen do deserve to get some answers to their questions and not to be lead on a wild goose chase but to blame things on alcohol is absolutly absurd.
Aldermen pick Tomlinson for school board 3/17/2010 10:55:00 AM
colfax at 3/18/2010 9:27:00 AM: What is the current racial makeup percentage wise in the district, what is the racial makeup percentage wise of population in city, in county? Anybody know?
Columbus teen dies in early morning house fire 3/18/2010 8:56:00 AM
MB at 3/18/2010 9:25:00 AM: This is so sad!! Prayers sent for the family!
Gavin: City ‘doing really well’ 3/17/2010 11:00:00 AM
RITA at 3/18/2010 9:05:00 AM: I think Mr gavin is doing a great job not to mention he is by far the hottest councilman up there. I try to watch each meeting.
Barbour trims another $41 million from budget; cuts total $499.5 million 3/17/2010 4:16:00 PM
MB at 3/18/2010 9:00:00 AM: The problem with education in Mississippi is the Mississippi House of Representatives. I wish the ACLU would file suit against the Democrat Party, House Speaker McCoy, and Cecil Brown (D - Chairman of Education Committee) for lack of willingness to improve education here in Mississippi. This party and these men have been in office for over 20 years and we are still getting the same result from them. They do not care about the children but they do care about the superintendents and their very powerful money lobby!!! These two men along with the help of their party DO NOT care about improving education because they have been doing the same for over 20 years! They want to throw money at the problem and not fix it! CONSOLIDATE school districts!! Start out with one per county!!!! There is no reason why Mississippi with 82 counties needs 152 school districts! Education is where most of the waste is here in Mississippi and the DEMOCRATS do not want to change it!
Stansbury through with criticism of officiating 3/17/2010 11:38:00 AM
big dog at 3/18/2010 8:57:00 AM: Whine Whine Whine. If you score more points than the other team YOU WIN ! SIMPLE SIMON !
Gavin: City ‘doing really well’ 3/17/2010 11:00:00 AM
ms wilson at 3/18/2010 8:52:00 AM: The city needs to get all those people riding around in pickups out and fixing holes cleaning gutters and trash from the streets. There are potholes everywhere I go.looks like no body is in charge. I I see workers but no work. Time to have some change in the street department. Real change.
Barbour trims another $41 million from budget; cuts total $499.5 million 3/17/2010 4:16:00 PM
joe at 3/18/2010 8:50:00 AM: most schools pack money in a fund labeled as maint.These same schools keep hounding theis comunities for money and say they need help wile you try to find 20.00 to try to help they are sitting on several hundred thousand that they never touched from the year before.what our governor wants is for people to use the money the state alots carefully and by saving off the front end it puts them in as position ofhaving to be responsable with the money they are given.We do the same thing with our paycheck.(take taxes out now so we dont have to pay at the end of the year).
Jan at 3/18/2010 8:47:00 AM: Way to go governor Barbour! Our over spending must stop. All government agencies should only spend the money that our taxes generate. The only fair way is to cut everything across the board, but since some areas are more important to the operations of the state than others, common sense for what the state needs most should play a part. As for our education in Mississippi each district should stop their waste and stop thinking that new buildings improve education. Perhaps, Mississppi should model their funding after some other areas in the United States where each school's funding is based on their enrollment. Parents are allowed to send their child to any school so the competition among the schools are based on having all teachers care about teaching with students learning how to apply their education in the real world and not just a test score. If Mississippi's education system would forget about just test scores and go back to the old tried and true method of teaching, test scores would skyrocket. Our children which would later mean our state would be a lot better off. Involvement and caring from parents and other citizens is free.
Gavin: City ‘doing really well’ 3/17/2010 11:00:00 AM
City Resident at 3/18/2010 8:43:00 AM: I'll give credit where credit is due. The city showed up at the ditch in force with heavy equipment. Yeah, I had to call them again, but they did show up.

I am impressed.
VIDEO: Local Tea Party rallies in Columbus against health care plan 3/17/2010 11:52:00 AM
HK at 3/18/2010 8:19:00 AM: I hope the readers will really study the backdoor ways of the Dems getting their agenda passed.. all of the bills have hidden agendas.. when they come out--after being passed--it will be too late. The agendas are very serious to the grand ole USA. We may not recognize it after the Dems get their way. My hat is off to the Repubs for standing their ground. I hope they will help us put it back together when things fall apart. America is BROKE! I do not want rationed healthcare--I do not want to be told-u need surgery--see you in 6 months.. Study Canadian healthcare.. all of this sounds good on paper--but in real life--this is alot to think about.. I say--pray about it--let your vote count also..
Helmet ordinance hearing draws mixed reaction 3/17/2010 10:55:00 AM
Peds at 3/18/2010 8:13:00 AM: It sounds like the whole seat belt situation again...

Let's face it. MS did not get a primary seat belt nanny law to "help" people. We got it to not get cut off from federal dollars. This bicycle nanny law seems the same. It says it is for "safety" to sound good, but it is really about some people just wanting "Healthy Hometown" bragging rights.
Citizens protest handling of Aberdeen scandal 3/17/2010 10:55:00 AM
brassman at 3/18/2010 7:45:00 AM: why dont you tax all those beer joints in aberdeen that should raise quite a ruccus. when you get all those drunkards to thawing out . the difference between a drunkard and an alcoholic is meetings for the alcoholics. Aberdeen has gone down hill ever since they legalized alcohol in the town.
brass
Stansbury through with criticism of officiating 3/17/2010 11:38:00 AM
Kevin at 3/18/2010 7:00:00 AM: WAAAHHHH!! What a joke. There's a reason there is a facebook group named "Mississippi State Fans = Worst Fans in the Country" that has 9,000 members. From throwing bottles to incessant crying over a violation that had no impact on the play to having an empty stadium for your NIT game, what a pitiful group of losers.

Maybe if your team hadn't sucked it up in the regular season, you wouldn't have been in a position where you needed to win the SEC championship so you could go to the NCAA tournament and lose in the 1st round.


Gavin: City ‘doing really well’ 3/17/2010 11:00:00 AM
City Resident at 3/18/2010 4:32:00 AM: I hear your william. I've got a city ditch in front of my house that I have been trying to get the city to dig out for over a month now. They called me on the phone to ask "which ditch" after having explained it to them once before already. And as of now, they still haven't showed up to dig it out, and given we are suppose to get some heavy rain this weekend, I guess I'll have to do it for them if I want to avoid the flooding this ditch will surely cause.

Pretty sad if you ask me. The city has 261 employees, and a councilman bragging about all the money they have in the bank, but they can't seem to get anyone with a shovel to show up at a ditch. Instead, they let a 59 year old man with a chronic lower back injury do it for them.

Pretty sad indeed.
Stansbury through with criticism of officiating 3/17/2010 11:38:00 AM
michael johnson at 3/18/2010 12:07:00 AM: If you don't think the officials are scared to make calls against Kentucky late in games, then maybe you need to be hit with a water bottle!!!
michael johnson at 3/18/2010 12:04:00 AM: Good luck in the tourney! I hope you guys make the final four. Then Coach Calipari might have 3rd final four stripped from him. Win at all cost!!!
John M at 3/17/2010 11:16:00 PM: I'm glad no one can throw anything at me from here.
John M at 3/17/2010 11:13:00 PM: I saw the same thing happen in a close NIT game last night. Never gets called since there is no longer an equal number of players from both teams outside of the lane during a foul shot. Bost crossed the line too. If you're going to complain about one technicality, rewind the whole game and complain about all of them on both sides. Why cry about it? Personally, I think it's Karma for Miss State and their horrible fans who made calls, texts, and threw objects at the last game. Stop whining and win some games next year.
Jack Thomas at 3/17/2010 11:12:00 PM: Wow,I didn't know that Miss. St. fans where such sore losers. Blame the whole game on one call. Not missed fouls or free throws or non calls when Stansbury wasn't just a little out of the box. He was 10 foot on the floor.
Helmet ordinance hearing draws mixed reaction 3/17/2010 10:55:00 AM
Paladin at 3/17/2010 10:43:00 PM: It is funny how the alderman all jumped behind a dog ordinance. They fully support telling people how to care for their dogs.
But tell them what to do with their kids & suddenly they've got reservations.

The wording of the ordinance is causing problems because I'm sure we copied it from someone else - just like the dog ordinance.

I'm for the government, at all levels, getting its nose out of our lives.
Aldermen pick Tomlinson for school board 3/17/2010 10:55:00 AM
Leroy at 3/17/2010 9:51:00 PM: Leroy says Mrs. T. is the bestest choice for the job. Leroy wonders if a stink is being stirred? Leroy read in the mornin paper that Alderman Perky asked the mayor to veto Mrs. T., and the Mayor said he "did not know if he would veto the appointment". Leroys says if the cat says he don't know if he's vetoin or not, then that means he is likely gonna do doing it. Leroy says if he does it, a LOT of cats are going to start playing race cards left and right in StarkVegas. Leroy hopes that don't happen, but says stupid is as stupid does.
Barbour trims another $41 million from budget; cuts total $499.5 million 3/17/2010 4:16:00 PM
ken at 3/17/2010 9:28:00 PM: This has been brought on by the waste in the state. To many school districts, overpaid district school superintendents and to many administrative positions.. Most of the money is already gone by the time it gets down to the teachers.
Throwing more money at education is not the answer. That has not worked in the last 20 years. With the proper management of the education system, they would find they have more than enough money.
VIDEO: Local Tea Party rallies in Columbus against health care plan 3/17/2010 11:52:00 AM
Mike Cooper at 3/17/2010 8:53:00 PM: Thank you, Raider. Reading your comment was a breath of fresh air. You are correct on all points, in particular, the point that the bill lowers the national deficit in the long run. My regret is the Dems not ramming through a universal health care bill before trying to reach across the isle and before it got convoluted by the right. And, I must have missed that Government class that said a bill needed 60 votes in the Senate before it could be sent to the President. The first bill with 51 votes should have been signed into law a year ago. Thank you again for helping me try and disclose the truth. I hope the Dems have learned a lesson.
Raider at 3/17/2010 7:56:00 PM: Why should people read the bill? They don't need to read as long as Limbaugh, Beck, Palin and others can just make stuff up and say it's in the bill. Despite the fact that both the House and Senate bills ban abortion funding, people still claim that the bill funds abortion. Despite the fact that both bills bars funding for illegal aliens, people still make the claim that it covers them. And, despite the fact that they have been proven wrong, Palin and friends still claim the bill has death panels. The CBO says the bill will actually lower the nation's debt in the long run but...why listen to some non-partisan budget group that has a history of being truthful for the most part. Why listen to them when you can just take the word of the President's enemies that are telling me what I want to here. Why look at those confusing CBO numbers when its easier to listen to some guy with an "ax to grind" and no numbers. It's always better to make blind predictions than try to make educated guesses using history, numbers and facts. The easiest way to get Republicans to vote "for" health care is to have President Obama come out "against" health care.
Barbour trims another $41 million from budget; cuts total $499.5 million 3/17/2010 4:16:00 PM
ma at 3/17/2010 7:11:00 PM: Bet he didn't cut his paycheck any. Our children are in danger of being the most undereducated children in the United States....they are our future.
Gavin: City ‘doing really well’ 3/17/2010 11:00:00 AM
william at 3/17/2010 6:53:00 PM: Looks like old Bill has made good use of the longer Drinkings Hours. He did not tell how much the city owes. We need our streets fixed before new parks. Where did this NEW WIND FALL come from. When I worked for the city we never let the streets get to this shape. Mayor Wade made sure they were taken care of. From what I hear the new street man lives in Memphis and only works 4 days a week. Can't get it done in that time and managerment. There are pot holes on every street. Crank it up and spend some of that new money.
Stansbury through with criticism of officiating 3/17/2010 11:38:00 AM
michael johnson at 3/17/2010 6:29:00 PM: Will you guys just admit that a obvious non call resulted in Kentucky winning the SEC Tournament? The head of officials for the SEC has already admitted that the referee missed the violation.
michael johnson at 3/17/2010 6:23:00 PM: I agree Joe. MSU should have won more games, but it doesn't excuse the fact that the a referee's non call caused this game to go to overtime. Which ultimately resulted in MSU losing the game. Also, I can guarantee you that Calipari would have not had the integrity to suspend his leading scorer when the #2 team in the country was coming to town.
michael johnson at 3/17/2010 6:18:00 PM: Show me a coach that doesn't step outside the coach's box. That's a weak argument. If that was the best argument I could have made, then I would have probably just not typed anything. I guess Stans is a sore loser. For him to complain about an obvious non call that costs his team the game, the SEC Tournament Championship, and a NCAA Tournament berth is just ridiculous. I'll tell you another thing too about the game back in February at Starkville. If the venue and teams were reversed, UK fans would have throw a heck of a lot worse things than water bottles on the court. Then again, you and I both know the calls wouldn't have gone against Kentucky.
Ed Moncrief at 3/17/2010 6:17:00 PM: Did Stansbury watch the video of the entire game to see how many other violations there may have been? I doubt it because he seemed to be just looking for an excuse. Maybe Miss. St. should not have fouled and taken a chance that UK could not knock down a 3. A two pointer inside would not have helped UK so all they needed to do was defend the three pt. line.
joe at 3/17/2010 6:14:00 PM: If MSU had taken of business during the regular season, they would had a bid anyway. Also if he had not discipline one of his players during the regular season meeting with the cats, he probably would have beat Ky. So it was more than one game that cost MSU a bid. As much hacking his team did to Cousins, some of them should have fouled out. So again MSU should have taken care of business earlier and then they would not need a desperation win to get in. Stansbury can only fault himself and stop blaming everyone else for his teams failures.
michael johnson at 3/17/2010 6:03:00 PM: Fred are you serious? The fact that Wall got at least an eight foot head start toward the basket had nothing to do with him getting the ball? Plain and simple, if Wall is standing where he should have been, Phil Turner gets the rebound. John Wall probably wouldn't have even got over there in time to foul him before the clock ran out. Continue lying to yourself about your tainted championship, maybe you'll convince yourself. Arrogant Kentucky fans!!!
VIDEO: Local Tea Party rallies in Columbus against health care plan 3/17/2010 11:52:00 AM
Mike Cooper at 3/17/2010 5:34:00 PM: First, I am not mad at any 'citizen sticking up for what they do know about'. And, I am not 'judging or confronting another voting legal citizen that is speaking up for their feelings'. I am merely raising some questions that might need to be asked before some take a position in front of our City Hall that they might not know about. Questions we may need to ask ourselves. Second, do we believe the numbers of the non-partisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO) or do we believe the numbers of our great State's Governor who may or may not have a political agenda? The truth of the matter is we all have a right to disagree. But wouldn't it be better to focus on that with which we agree, rather than that with which we disagree? Particularly, when it comes to this health care reform legislation? This is as close to we have gotten to health care reform since the Reagan administration. It can be improved upon after its passage. If it takes ramming it through to get something done, my position is ram away.
City tables request for E911 software 3/17/2010 11:00:00 AM
sassy at 3/17/2010 5:31:00 PM: Yeah, hoping for the best is a good emergency plan, Mr. Mayor. You can bet that if anything happens resulting in the city being sued because of faulty equipment at 911, it's going to be costing much more than $18,000.
Stansbury through with criticism of officiating 3/17/2010 11:38:00 AM
fred biletnikoff at 3/17/2010 5:24:00 PM: Wall (and two other players, one from MSU) crossed the 3-pt line early because Bledsoe shot the ball unusually high. When the ball came down and hit the rim, Wall was in the center of the lane. But that's not why he got the rebound! The ball bounced off to the right, off Patterson's hand and headed for the right corner. Two MSU players, Augustus and Turner, were to the right of the lane and closer to the ball than Wall. But Wall reacted more quickly and used his speed to blow by them for the rebound. It's one thing to say it's a technical violation, it's another to say the violation caused him to get the rebound. It didn't. He just out-hussled the other team. And besides, once he had the rebound, he threw up an air ball. Hardly the reason MSU lost the game.
VIDEO: Local Tea Party rallies in Columbus against health care plan 3/17/2010 11:52:00 AM
Mike Cooper at 3/17/2010 5:06:00 PM: First, I am not mad at any 'citizen sticking up for what they do know about'. And, I am not 'judging or confronting another voting legal citizen that is speaking up for their feelings'. I am merely raising some questions that might need to be asked before some take a position in front of our City Hall that they might not know about. Questions we may need to ask ourselves. Second, do we believe the numbers of the non-partisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO) or do we believe the numbers of our great State's Governor who may or may not have a political agenda? The truth of the matter is we all have a right to disagree. But wouldn't it be better to focus on that with which we agree, rather than that with which we disagree? Particularly, when it comes to this health care reform legislation? This is as close to we have gotten to health care reform since the Reagan administration. It can be improved upon after its passage. If it takes ramming it through to get something done, my position is ram away.
Steve Mullen: What would Ulysses do? 3/17/2010 2:10:00 PM
mike at 3/17/2010 4:49:00 PM: what would ulysses do? burn the place to the ground, like he did to so many other towns !!
Barbour trims another $41 million from budget; cuts total $499.5 million 3/17/2010 4:16:00 PM
nervous at 3/17/2010 4:20:00 PM: our educational system is in deep trouble. I feel so bad for the teachers and educational staff.
VIDEO: Local Tea Party rallies in Columbus against health care plan 3/17/2010 11:52:00 AM
hk at 3/17/2010 4:19:00 PM: M--well then you get what you voted for--congrats.. My conscience is totally clear..
m at 3/17/2010 3:59:00 PM: hk- you're right i don't have to defend anything, except my nation! when i stop seeing traitorous signs at these meetings i'll stop calling them traitors. as for not paying for things you don't like, i also don't want to pay for things i don't like but you don't always get that say-so. half the country doesn't oppose health care reform. quit speaking for everyone else, our votes spoke for us.
hk at 3/17/2010 3:52:00 PM: M--that is a bit harsh. We are citizens that do not want to work for the govt to pay for abortions and things like that.. we wan to keep having the ability to speak and say how we want the country to run.. like the founding fathers intended.. not have those rights taken away.. the people at the tea parties are the most patriotic you will ever meet and speak with.. I am speaking for myself.. I love America and do not ever put anyone in the pot with Bin Laden--that is down right hateful.. you need to do some research as to why this is so opposed--by over half the country.. it is ok--you do not have to try to defend why you voted for Obama.. it is ok--we just now all have to band together and try to fix it and try to save what is left of the USA!!
m at 3/17/2010 3:33:00 PM: not everyone has medicaid, thats kind of the point, those who don't work and draw welfare already get free healthcare this is for WORKING people who can't afford health care. bet everyone of those republicans out there has health insurance. we voted for change and now its time for our government to act. to you traitors who don't like our government, go join those like you such as osama bin laden.
Stansbury through with criticism of officiating 3/17/2010 11:38:00 AM
jim rice at 3/17/2010 2:47:00 PM: Stansbury didn't mention the rule concerning coaches not leaving the coaches box and going onto the floor, which he does all the time. That rule is seldom enforced otherwise he would be called on it frequently during games. He is a poor loser that wants to be selective on which rules are called. Maybe he should encourage his fans to throw more water bottles at the officals, since he didn't ask them to stop, maybe that would cause the refs to call the games closer. Oh, and maybe they would call all the fouls committed by his record breaking shot blocker. He has always been a sore loser.
Helmet ordinance hearing draws mixed reaction 3/17/2010 10:55:00 AM
SEL at 3/17/2010 2:15:00 PM: This is similar to the traffic cameras in Columbus. It is simply a money generating venture. At best, it is a manifestation of the political/social philosophy of many in Starkville--MORE govt intrusion in the lives of free citizens.

This is a sad day.
Stiknmud at 3/17/2010 2:13:00 PM: These kids should not only wear helmets but should also have to wear uniforms while riding bikes.
VIDEO: Local Tea Party rallies in Columbus against health care plan 3/17/2010 11:52:00 AM
T at 3/17/2010 2:02:00 PM: I don't claim to know any answers or know all about the bill. I do agree that something needs to be done. But we are not that wealthy... How much debt are we in? This is a tweet from Haley Barbour yesterday. "Call your representative and tell them to vote 'no' on #healthcare bill. Plan will raise costs. Video: http://tr.im/S851 /via @HaleyBarbour".
HK at 3/17/2010 1:59:00 PM: To all so far on the forum: I do not think any of the members have even read the bill or understood half of the garbage in it.. so do not get mad at citizens sticking up for what they do know about--while you sit at home and do nothing at all.. second--the ones that have health issues but no insurance--they have most of my hard earned money now-it is called MEDICAID and health clinics.. they go to the ER with a head cold.. I hear change fall out of my pocket everytime I see them in there and they can work! They can rake leaves if need be.. but why should they? It is going to get alot worse! I agree health care needs reformed--but not all of the junk rammed through.. so think before you judge or want to go confront another voting legal citizen that is speaking up for their feelings.. You could have the same right--for now.. who knows what else is going to happen to this country..
Helmet ordinance hearing draws mixed reaction 3/17/2010 10:55:00 AM
MB at 3/17/2010 1:52:00 PM: I understand what they are trying to do but my gosh! What are these politicians going to legislate next? We are turning out kids into a bunch of dang pansies! If they want to legislate something, how about banning PS3s, Xboxes, computers and TVs! These things are what is making our kids so dang fat and lazy!!!
VIDEO: Local Tea Party rallies in Columbus against health care plan 3/17/2010 11:52:00 AM
Patty at 3/17/2010 1:33:00 PM: Well said Mike Cooper! Those protesting must have never had a problem with health care themselves, or never have had a friend or loved one needing care or medications they cannot afford, or they simply DON'T CARE about anyone else. This country, with all it's wealth and high standard of medicine, has not and would not taken care of it's citizens that cannot cover the cost. People die daily for lack of care - it's way beyond time for reform!
Aldermen pick Tomlinson for school board 3/17/2010 10:55:00 AM
enlightened at 3/17/2010 1:16:00 PM: Perkins and his puppet, Vaughn, assert the most "qualified" candidate was not chosen. Credentials are NOT qualifications. One only has to look at Conley's tenure to see that he did NOT do a good job as Superinendant. When the State comes in and completely takes over a school district, that tells me the superindent who had been running it for the decade prior failed at his job. Perhaps Perkins and Vaughn should look less at the race of the applicant and look more at their track records.
VIDEO: Local Tea Party rallies in Columbus against health care plan 3/17/2010 11:52:00 AM
Mike Cooper at 3/17/2010 1:09:00 PM: I agree w/ KJ. If I had been able to get to City Hall yesterday, I would have asked how many of those healthy-looking folks had read the bill? How many had any major medical problems,(or knew anyone who did), that caused them to lose their jobs and/or their medical insurance? How many have had significant increases, in the last 5 years, in their premiums, deductibles, or co-pays at rates that cannot possibly be sustained? Or, how many owned businesses that did not have a group medical package for their 3 or more employees because of the costs? The rising costs of medical care is a vicious circle that must be interrupted. Insurance companies are raising premiums, deductibles, and co-pays because health care providers are raising their costs. Health care providers are raising their costs because they are having to treat uninsured or under insured folks in the ER and pay out major damages when one of their staff screws up, which, in turn, raises the providers' cost to their malpractice carriers. And, all this is going on while the insurance companies are realizing significant profits. This vicious circle has got to be stopped and this bill is at least a good place to start. The CBO, not the Dems, says the bill is paid for with its cost-cutting and waste management measures along with new premiums from previously uninsured folks; and, it extends Social Security and Medicare solvency for at least another decade without further cutting Medicare pay outs to doctors. And lastly, if you like what you already have, you can keep it without fear of being denied coverage in the future should you, God forbid, develop a major medical problem. I don't understand what there is to complain about. Get this bill into law and improve upon it with subsequent bills as problems are specified. You will never please all the people all the time, but something has got to be done about this and has needed to be done for a long time. There's no time like the present.
Helmet ordinance hearing draws mixed reaction 3/17/2010 10:55:00 AM
Starkville Bicycler at 3/17/2010 12:13:00 PM: I just read the ordinance and it says you can't take a child under one in a restrained seat on a bicycle. I've been riding with my son since he was 6 months old in a bike trailer (with his helmet on). We've ridden all over Starkville and this exercise is one of the main ways I lost the pregnancy weight. By this new ordinance, that would have been illegal?!?! Also, the ordinance makes it illegal for a child under 40 pounds to ride as a passenger on a bike unharnessed, but my under 40# 5 year old rides on a bike tethered to her father's. She doesn't have the stamina to ride across town on her own. Now that will be illegal, too? What are we trying to do with this law, exactly? My family loves riding and exercising together with bicycles. Now we are going to be breaking the law in doing so, even if we wear helmets?

I'm all for bike helmets. Kids should wear them, my kids do. But this ordinance as written isn't the way to go.
Aldermen pick Tomlinson for school board 3/17/2010 10:55:00 AM
magnolia at 3/17/2010 12:11:00 PM: You can always count on Perkins to cast the negative vote on everything and now Vaughn is following suit.
VIDEO: Local Tea Party rallies in Columbus against health care plan 3/17/2010 11:52:00 AM
KJ at 3/17/2010 12:00:00 PM: I seriously doubt that anyone who would hold a sign espousing "no government health care" has even a rudimentary understanding of this bill or the broader debate.