A rose to the Starkville School District, which has come up with another way to capitalize on technology to benefit students and their parents. The school district’s new web-based program, called “INOW” allows parents to access relevant information about their children’s progress — everything from test scores to homework assignments to discipline to attendance. For a long time, schools were reluctant to embrace technology. So, it is refreshing to see schools use technology toward constructive ends.
A rose to Columbus Walmart’s “Hoops for Troops” program. The event was held in July at Caledonia High School to support the families of members of a Columbus National Guard unit. Last year, the event raised $3,500 and organizers were hoping to crack the $5,000-mark this year. Last week, Walmart presented a check to The Family Readiness Group in the amount of $7,500, far exceeding its goal. For that, Walmart deserves a red, white and blue rose.
A rose to the late Joseph R. Thompson, a WWII veteran, who received the French Legion of Honor post-humously for his aid in the liberation of France from Germany during 1944 and 1945. Thompson was one of an ever-diminishing group of living heroes, “The Greatest Generation.”
A rose to Dwight and Jean Colson, who opened up 200 acres of their farm in Caledonia for the enjoyment of children, and for holding their first public bonfire in later this month. Each year, it seems, the Colsons come up with something new to help area folks celebrate the arrival of fall. When it comes to this celebration, like the Colsons, we are all “country pumpkins.”
A rose to Dr. Judie Holmes and Dr. Richard Holmes Sr., who used the suicide of their son, Richard Earl Holmes as the impetus for the Richard E. Holmes II Memorial Foundation to help connect returning veterans with resources and monetary assistance to get the help they need. By turning grief into action, the Holmeses are addressing a chronic need and in doing so bring comfort and hope to many.
The Dispatch Editorial Board is made up of publisher Peter Imes, columnist Slim Smith, managing editor Zack Plair and senior newsroom staff.
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