A rose to the Mississippi State University and the Ole Miss football teams who did their state proud Saturday afternoon. As reported elsewhere in this edition, the Bulldogs walloped the Texas A&M Aggies in Starkville. In Oxford, the Rebels sent the previously unbeaten Crimson Tide back to Tuscaloosa with their first loss. Both Mississippi teams sport impressive 5-0 starts and as far as we can tell, that’s never been the case. The last time Ole Miss had a 5-0 start was 1962. Go Rebels! Go Dawgs!
A rose to the administrators, teachers, staff, students and parents of Caledonia Elementary School for their combined efforts in attaining 2014 National Blue Ribbon School honors. Blue Ribbon Schools are nominated by the departments of education in each state. The Mississippi Department of Education nominated four schools, of which two were chosen by the U.S. Department of Education as Blue Ribbon schools. Caledonia was the only public school chosen for the honor. St. James Catholic School in Gulfport also made the list. Nationwide, 337 schools earned the honor, which is based on overall academic excellence or their progress in closing achievement gaps among student subgroups.
A rose to Columbus Fire & Rescue, whose quick response to an East Columbus fire saved the lives of some residents. The tragic fire, which was reported around 2 a.m. Wednesday, claimed the life of 11-year-old Oranjula Shanklin. While the community mourns the loss, it should be not be forgotten that the efforts of the CFD may well have prevented more deaths.
A rose to organizers of the 7th Avenue Heritage Festival, which celebrated its 33rd anniversary this weekend with food, music, entertainment and the dedication of a memorial to honor Columbus resident and former Tuskegee Airman Alva Temple. While Columbus is host to several festivals each year, the 7th Avenue event is always known for its great spirit and excellent entertainment. It has become a cherished part of the city’s cultural landscape.
A rose to Golden Triangle Regional Airport and its executive director, Mike Hainsey, for landing a $750,000 federal grant that may open the door flights to the west, perhaps with regular flights to major destinations such as Dallas, Houston and Denver. At a time when many of the state’s regional airports are struggling, GTRA has thrived in an ultra-competitive market and has played an important role in recruiting industries to the Golden Triangle. Having access to a thriving commercial airport in a relatively small community is something that should not be taken lightly. We are, indeed, fortunate.
Send your suggestions for Roses and thorns to Slim Smith at [email protected].
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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