A rose to Aretha Macon, a clerk at the Shell Express on Main Street, and two bystanders who attempted to help a woman Columbus Police say was abducted by her ex-boyfriend at knifepoint Wednesday morning. The victim begged her attacker to stop at the gas station so she could use the bathroom. While in the bathroom, she attempted to call 911, but the man burst into the bathroom and dragged her outside and into a car. Macon ran outside and tried to stop him while two unnamed men tried to block his car from exiting the parking lot. Macon was nearly run over attempting to stop the man from leaving. Later that night, the two other helpers returned to the station to inquire about the victim and ask if she was OK.
A rose to the 21 members of the Columbus Air Force Base”s Security Forces Squadron, who volunteered their time to participate in the “9/11 Ruck March to Remember,” and to Airman 1st Class Chase Hedrick, who not only participated in the march, but also kept folks back home updated through a stream of photos and videos on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.
A rose to Columbus Main Street, for hosting another successful season of Sounds of Summer. This year, the free concert series brought Juke Joint Gypsies, Nash Creek, Southbound Train, Cold and Swing Shift — to name a few — to the Columbus Riverwalk stage. And hundreds flocked to the Riverwalk, with lawn chairs and blankets, to enjoy the concerts. It”s one of many events that adds to the quality of life in the area, giving us a chance to mingle with our neighbors and enjoy local gems, such as the Riverwalk.
A rose to local vendors — from farmers and growers to crafters and candle makers — who have kept the West Point Farmers” Market thriving. The market was set to have its last day, Thursday. But due to its popularity, the market is continuing indefinitely. West Point hosts its farmers” market every Thursday night from 4-7 p.m., at the Mossy Oak Outlet Pavilion. Farmers” markets support local growers and offers community members fresh and healthier wares. The markets also offer another family-friendly community gathering place.
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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