The Commercial Dispatch Eedition-11/26/09-section A

WWW.CDISPATCH.COM s COLUMBUS, MISSISSIPPI s 130TH YEAR, NO. 222 s $1.00

HAPPY THANKSGIVING Hundreds of bargains, free local shopping guide inside

Former restaurant now cluster of ‘creative offices’

LEE, PATTERSON two players from area in Egg Bowl

Business, Page 9A

Sports, Page 1B

THE COMMERCIAL DISPATCH THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2009

DEAD HUNTER’S WIFE ARRESTED FOR MURDER SHOOTING: Couple had been hunting together Sunday when others nearby heard shot BY TIM PRATT Dispatch Starkville Bureau [email protected]

V. Childs

STARKVILLE — The wife of a hunter found dead

Sunday morning in western Oktibbeha County was arrested Wednesday for her husband’s murder. Verina Marie Childs, 37, of 3875 Jeff Peay Road in

Oktibbeha County, was arrested by the Oktibbeha County Sherif f’s Department and was being held Wednesday afternoon at the Oktibbeha County

Jail on a $125,000 bond. A preliminary hearing will be set at a later date. Childes and her husband, Douglas Marion Childes, 32, were hunting

Silent protest speaks volumes MUW: Students march to show disapproval of merger plan BY JASON BROWNE [email protected]

together off Hawkins Road, not far from the Choctaw County line, shortly after 7 a.m. Sunday when other hunters in the area heard a See MURDER, 10A

Council to vote on smoking ban next week PUBLIC HEARING: Residents speak out against ban; some want stricter rules

50 Approximately Mississippi University for Women students walked silently across campus Tuesday before standing arm-in-arm in front of Callaway Hall and Columbus Hall. It was a show of solidarity in protest against a proposed merger, which would see the state’s smallest public university merged with its largest, Mississippi State University. The symbolic wall of people was the students’ way of blocking entrance to their school while drawing attention to their disapproval. “They ask the board what they think. They ask teachers. They ask state officials. They ask school officials.

BY KRISTIN MAMRACK [email protected] After a dozen residents spoke Tuesday during a public hearing on a proposed smoking ban, the Columbus City Council is expected to vote on a ban Dec. 1. The majority of those who spoke Tuesday were opposed to a ban; although, several business owners asked for a complete ban, if one is enacted at all. “We’ve been through this,” said John Bean, a stockholder in The Eat With Us Group, which owns several restaurants — including Harvey’s, Sweet Peppers Deli and The Grill — in Columbus, as well as restaurants in Starkville and Tupelo, which both have city smoking bans. “As a business owner, I’m opposed

See MUW, 3A Mississippi University for Women students line up in front of Callaway Hall on Tuesday in a silent protest over plans to merge MUW with Mississippi State University.

to this ordinance. “I also understand these things are happening, happening everywhere,” he continued. “(Starkville’s ordinance, which allows smoking on restaurant patios) manipulated the market and allowed some restaurants and bars in town to have an advantage over others. I have one of those (restaurants with no outside patio section), and it very adversely affected that business. In Tupelo, they have a 100-percent ban in all places. I think restaurant and business owners would tell you it’s fair to everyone.” Asking the council to “ban smoking 100 percent in all public places,” Bean said doing so would ensure a “level playing field for everyone.” The ordinance, proSee COUNCIL, 10A

Kelly Tippett/Dispatch Staff

THANKSGIVING CLOSINGS

‘There’s a reason they call it Black Friday’ HOLIDAY SHOPPING: Local retailers expect big crowds BY KRISTIN MAMRACK [email protected] Columbus retailers are ready for what they hope is their biggest shopping weekend of the year, and city officials are encouraging residents to shop locally in this gift-giving season. “The city benefits greatly from

TODAY’S DISPATCH

residents and visitors shopping in Columbus, because of the 7-percent sales tax revenue it generates,” said Columbus Mayor Robert Smith. “That 7-percent amount goes to the Mississippi Tax Commission and they send us back 18.5 percent. In other words, the city gets 18.5 cents on every dollar generated from sales

Inside

See SHOPPING, 3A

INSIDE

n OPINION: Give thanks for our

retailers, and shop locally. Page 4A

Five Questions

Weather

1 What U.S. state requires film

Quotable You bank on any friendship where interest is paid.

Index 9B Abby Classifieds 10-12B 9B Comics 5,11,12A Obituaries Opinions/Letters 4A Weather 2A

tax collected within the city limits. “In Mississippi, counties get no sales tax, just cities,” he added. “And for most towns and cities in this state, sales tax revenue received back from the state represents 40

Holiday gifts Gift ideas for an avid mobile phone user. Page 7B

crews to be blessed by a local priest before they can begin shooting? 2 What secondary title did the Miss America pageant axe in 1974, for being too much like a popularity contest? 3 What month features the Sap Moon? 4 What video series for toning the posterior earned fame for fitness expert Tamilee Webb? 5 What attacked three folks on Waveland, Fla., beaches in 2001, for the first time in St. Lucie County history – dolphins, otters or sea turtles? Answers, 12B

Hannah Crowley, third grade, Caledonia

Tonight: Clear, low 36 Tomorrow: Sunny, high 56 More weather, 2A

n The Dispatch offices will be closed today. n Golden Triangle Waste Services will not pick up today for the holiday. Regular services will resume Friday, and today’s pickups will be picked up Saturday. n Columbus Light and Water and 4-County Electric Power Association will be closed today and Friday. n The Columbus-Lowndes Development Link will be closed today and Friday. n Columbus Public Library will be closed today through Saturday. n Lowndes County offices will be closed today and Friday. n City of Columbus offices will be closed today and Friday. n Banks: All area banks will be closed today. n Columbus post offices will be closed today. The U.S. Postal Service will not deliver mail today, but will resume services Friday.

Calendar Friday

n Ninth annual Possum Town Grand Prix SLM $2,000 plus NeSmith Fall Nationals. For more information, call Columbus Motor Speedway at 662-241-5004.

n The MSU Symphony Orchestra presents its first concert at 6:30 p.m. in McComas Hall on the MSU campus. Free to the public. Info: 662-325-3070.

Sunday

Monday through Tuesday

n Deborah Johnson, author of “The Air Between Us,” is the featured author at the Columbus Convention and Visitors Bureau’s “No Dead Authors” series of book readings and signings at 2 p.m. at the Tennessee Williams Welcome Center, 300 Main St., in Columbus. Refreshments will be served. Info: Adele Elliott, 662-2419931.

Monday

n The 37th annual Mississippi State University Holiday Bazaar features more than 100 vendors from 10 a.m.-7 p.m. both days at the Joe Frank Sanderson Center on campus. Info: Campus Activities Board, 662-325-2910.

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THE DISPATCH • www.cdispatch.com

2A THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2009

Roman Polanski was granted $4.5 million bail Wednesday, clearing the way for the fugitive director to move within days from a Swiss jail to house arrest and electronic monitoring at his Alpine resort chalet. The Swiss Justice Polanski Minister said she saw no reason to appeal the surprise decision by the Swiss Criminal Court. Polanski would have to remain in Switzerland as authorities assess whether to extradite him to the United States for having sex in Los Angeles in 1977 with a 13-year-old girl. Ministry Spokesman Folco Galli said the final decision on transferring Polanski to his

SAY WHAT?

Thursday

PEOPLE IN THE NEWS chalet in the Swiss resort of Gstaad would be made “quickly.” The widow of Sen. Edward M. Kennedy told Oprah Winfrey in an interview broadcast Wednesday that even as her husband knew he was dying of brain cancer he had been “in training” to make sure he had enough strength to attend President Barack Obama’s inauguration. In the most extensive interview since her husband’s death in August, Vicki Kennedy said she wouldn’t try to run for her husband’s former U.S. Senate seat and described how he battled brain cancer — but she would not talk about the last thing he said to her before dying. “I think I’ll just keep that one to myself,” she told Winfrey on “The Oprah Winfrey Show.”

“It turns out the wife was the one who shot him.” Oktibbeha County Chief Deputy George Carrithers, on a woman arrested in her husband’s shooting death while the couple was hunting. Story, 1A

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Pablo Martinez Monsivais/AP

The National Thanksgiving Turkey, Courage, waits to be pardoned by President Obama, in a ceremony in the North Portico of the White House, in Washington, Wednesday.

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Alex Brandon/AP

President Barack Obama, right, with daughters, Sasha Obama, 8, Malia Obama, 11, reacts with Walter Pelletier, chairman of the National Turkey Federation, as Malia reaches to pet a turkey, Courage, the day before Thanksgiving, during a ceremony in the North Portico of the White House in Washington, Wednesday.

The Commercial Dispatch (USPS 142-320) Published daily except Saturday. Entered at the post office at Columbus, Mississippi. Periodicals postage paid at Columbus, MS POSTMASTER, Send address changes to: The Commercial Dispatch, P.O. Box 511, Columbus, MS 39703 Published by Commercial Dispatch Publishing Company Inc., 516 Main St., Columbus, MS 39703

WEATHER REPORT FIVE-DAY FORECAST FOR THE GOLDEN TRIANGLE AND SURROUNDING AREA TONIGHT THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY Breezy with sunshine

Mostly sunny

Sunshine and pleasant

Mostly cloudy

Cloudy with a chance of rain

Low: 36°

56° 34°

57° 35°

62° 41°

61° 51°

59° 47°

MISSISSIPPI WEATHER TOMORROW

Columbus yesterday Temperature High/low ............................ 65°/46° Normal high/low ................ 63°/39° Precipitation Yesterday .............................. 0.00" Month to date ........................ 0.63" Normal month to date ............ 4.05" Year to date ........................ 66.30" Normal year to date ............ 49.90"

Shown is tomorrow’s weather. Temperatures are tonight’s lows and tomorrow’s highs.

Dec. 2 Dec. 8 Dec. 16 Dec. 24

SOLUNAR TABLES The solunar period schedule allows planning days so you will be fishing in good territory or hunting in good cover during those times. Day a.m. p.m. Major

Minor

6:52 7:30 8:09

1:02 1:19 1:57

Major Minor

7:13 7:52 8:32

---1:41 2:21

Starkville 36/56

Meridian 38/57

55

Aliceville 38/57

20

Macon 37/58

Brookhaven 37/59

59

LOUISIANA REGIONAL CITIES Baton Rouge Biloxi Birmingham Greenville Gulfport Jackson Meridian Mobile Monroe Montgomery Natchez New Orleans Shreveport Tupelo

COLUMBUS 36/56

59

Jackson 38/58

Hattiesburg 38/61

City

Thu. Fri. Sat.

Carthage 36/57

Biloxi 41/63

Thu.

Fri.

Hi/Lo/W

Hi/Lo/W

61/37/s 63/38/s 56/34/s 55/34/s 63/37/s 58/34/s 57/33/s 62/37/s 62/35/s 58/35/s 61/34/s 64/41/s 65/35/s 56/35/s

63/40/pc 61/41/pc 56/33/s 59/39/s 63/39/pc 60/35/s 60/34/s 62/36/pc 63/41/pc 60/36/s 60/37/pc 63/46/pc 68/43/pc 59/35/s

10

Yesterday River

WEATHER TRIVIA

Q:

™

Which U.S. president was also an avid weather observer?

UV INDEX TOMORROW 3 2 0 2 10 a.m.

Noon

2 p.m.

4 p.m.

0-2: Low, 3-5: Moderate, 6-7: High, 8-10: Very high, 11+: Extreme

Flood stage

Tombigbee Amory 20' Bigbee 14' Fulton 20' Tupelo 21' Black Warrior Bankhead Dam Upper 255' Lower 189' Holt Dam Upper 187' Lower 140' Luxapalila Columbus 15'

7 a.m. yest.

24-hr. change

11.49' 4.53' 8.80' 1.40'

Thu.

Fri.

Hi/Lo/W

City

Hi/Lo/W

Hi/Lo/W

Baghdad Beijing Berlin Cairo Hong Kong Jerusalem London

62/41/pc 47/26/pc 46/39/pc 73/55/s 75/68/s 64/46/s 54/43/sh

65/41/s 44/26/s 45/37/r 72/53/s 77/66/c 63/45/s 52/43/pc

Moscow Paris Rome Seoul Sydney Tel Aviv Tokyo

41/36/r 52/43/sh 63/48/pc 52/31/pc 86/67/s 70/53/s 61/50/pc

41/34/c 50/43/pc 63/50/sh 45/25/s 87/68/s 68/53/s 63/51/c

Capacity

Aberdeen Dam 188' Stennis Dam 166' Bevill Dam 136'

Thu.

Fri.

Thu.

Fri.

City

Hi/Lo/W

Hi/Lo/W

City

Hi/Lo/W

Hi/Lo/W

Atlanta Atlantic City Baltimore Boston Chicago Dallas Denver Des Moines Detroit Fairbanks Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Kansas City Las Vegas

58/35/s 56/42/c 58/39/pc 54/47/c 40/29/r 64/41/s 60/30/s 44/29/c 44/35/r 7/-1/pc 82/73/pc 68/44/pc 66/38/pc 48/32/pc 68/41/s

57/36/s 50/36/c 49/36/c 53/40/r 44/32/pc 68/47/pc 62/28/s 51/36/s 43/33/sf 13/1/pc 83/71/s 68/50/pc 64/36/s 54/38/s 68/42/s

Los Angeles Memphis Miami Minneapolis Nashville New York City Oklahoma City Orlando Philadelphia Phoenix Raleigh Salt Lake City Seattle Tucson Wash., D.C.

82/52/s 54/38/s 82/58/c 36/27/c 50/36/pc 57/47/c 60/36/s 73/48/pc 58/46/c 77/50/s 65/37/pc 46/25/s 50/44/r 76/47/s 58/40/pc

70/50/pc 59/42/s 71/54/pc 45/32/pc 52/34/s 49/42/r 67/42/s 64/41/s 48/36/c 76/51/s 55/32/s 44/25/pc 48/39/r 75/47/s 50/35/c

NATIONAL WEATHER TOMORROW -10s

-0s

0s

10s

20s

30s

40s

50s

60s

70s

80s

90s

100s 110s

Seattle 50/44

+0.16' -0.28' none none

Billings 54/34 Minneapolis 36/27

254.88' 186.11'

+0.71' -0.57'

186.43' 125.25'

+1.10' N.A.

6.57'

-0.05'

San Francisco 61/49

Chicago 40/29

Denver 60/30

Detroit 44/35

New York 57/47 Washington 58/40

Kansas City 48/32

LAKE LEVELS Yesterday Lake

Fri.

Hi/Lo/W

Weather (W): s-sunny, pc-par tly cloudy, c-cloudy, sh-showers, t-thunderstorms, r-rain, sf-snow flurries, sn-snow, i-ice.

RIVER STAGES

Gulfport 41/63

George Washington.

First

Vernon 35/56

West Point 37/57 55

Thu.

City

NATIONAL CITIES

Aberdeen 36/56

COLUMBUS

Forecasts and graphics provided by AccuWeather, Inc. ©2009

MOON PHASES New

Natchez 38/61

Houston 37/56

ALABAMA

Sunrise today .................. 6:35 a.m. Sunset today .................. 4:47 p.m. Moonrise today .............. 12:34 p.m. Moonset today ........................ none Sunrise tomorrow ............ 6:36 a.m. Sunset tomorrow ............ 4:46 p.m. Moonrise tomorrow ........ 1:01 p.m. Moonset tomorrow ........ 12:45 a.m. Sunrise Friday ................ 6:37 a.m. Sunset Friday .................. 4:46 p.m. Moonrise Friday .............. 1:29 p.m. Moonset Friday .............. 1:43 a.m.

Fulton 36/55

Tupelo 38/56

Oxford 35/53

Grenada 36/56

Greenville 40/55

ARKANSAS

SUN AND MOON

WORLD CITIES

Corinth 33/54

55

Tunica 38/54

A:

The Great Appalachian Storm of 1950 began Nov. 25. Wind gusted to 76 mph at Central Park in New York City and past 100 mph in New England. West of the storm, the temperature sank to zero in Nashville, Tenn.

LOCAL WEATHER

Tupelo

WEATHER HISTORY

Last

MONDAY

Clear

ALMANAC DATA

Full

SUNDAY

7 a.m. yest.

Los Angeles 82/52

Atlanta 58/35

El Paso 61/37

Fronts Cold

24-Hr. change

163.29' +0.01' 137.44' +0.01' 136.54' +0.06'

Elevation in feet above sea level.

Houston 68/44

Warm Stationary

Showers

T-storms

Rain

Flurries

Miami 82/58

Snow

Ice

Shown are noon positions of weather systems and precipitation. Temperature bands are highs for the day.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2009

ONLINE CRIME NEWS

DISPATCH E-EDITION

See a gallery of local mug shots, crime trends and other law and order news at cdispatch.com/crime.

Get a full, printable electronic version of The Dispatch every day. Go to cdispatch.com/eedition.

Shopping Continued from Page 1A percent to 50 percent (of the city’s budget). It is about 46 to 47 percent of our budget; that’s our main source of revenue.” “It’s a well-known fact that every dollar spent locally turns over, or multiplies, seven times,” explained Melissa Cook, vice president of the chamber division of the Columbus-Lowndes Development Link. “In other words, seven different entities or individuals touch that dollar and spend it, whether it be on food, gas or whatever. It pumps much needed revenue back into the local economy. This allows local businesses to be able to continue to operate and provide us with shopping opportunities. It just makes sense to shop locally.” Local retailers, expecting big crowds, are out to prove shopping opportunities abound in Columbus, as they hold big afterThanksgiving sales this weekend. “We expect a big crowd,” said Takiesha Prude, manager at Old Navy, noting jeans at the retailer, which is holding a three-day sale, are priced at $15 and up. “Our Christmas Open House was so successful that I feel sure we’re going to get swamped,” said Gloria Herriott, owner of Hollyhocks Gift Shop, in downtown Columbus. “So, I hired extra help. We are having secret sales, and there will be a lot of in-house specials and sampling of food, so people can get

3A

Kelly Tippett/Dispatch Staff

Shelley Merideth and Ruby Brooks prepare sale signs at Fashion Barn in downtown Columbus.

ready for the holidays. “There’s a reason they call it Black Friday,” she continued, referring to dayafter-Thanksgiving sales and noting Hollyhocks will be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday and every Sunday until Christmas. “It is the day traditionally where we get into the black. That is the turning point for us; fourth quarter is where we actually make money.” “We expect a good crowd after Thanksgiving,” said Sarah Barefield of The Purple Elephant, which also is located in downtown Columbus. “We’ll have a percentage off of our Christmas items, so we expect a good weekend.” “We expect huge crowds,” said Mike Law, the manager of JC Penney,

which is in Leigh Mall and will be open from 4 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday. “We’re expecting a good turnout for the weekend, particularly Friday. Everything’s on sale, just about, and we’ll have special prices up until about 1 p.m. (Friday). “We feel like it’s going to be pretty similar to last year,” he added. “We had a big crowd at 4 a.m. and it usually stays real, real busy up until about 2 p.m. Then, it’s steady for about the rest of the day.” “We are getting all the merchandise out of the stockroom, into the aisles and the departments,” Belk merchandise coordinator Cindy Parker said Monday of the store’s efforts preparing for the big shopping weekend. “We’re doublechecking schedules, and

groups, is hoping to help MUW raise $3 million to offset state budget cuts and never again face merger or closure. Students are speaking out, too, to explain what’s at stake if MUW loses its independence. “We have worldrenowned nursing and education programs,” said senior education major Laura White. “In Mississippi, you can get a job in education just for being a W grad. You can’t get that anywhere else. You can’t go to Mississippi State and get a job because you’re a Mississippi State grad.” A follow-up event, W Day at the Capitol, is planned for Jan. 11 in Jackson, White said.

concern scholarships available to MUW students would be lost in the merger. Shirley Boudreau, a senior studio arts student who attends MUW along with her daughter, April, expressed similar concerns. “There are more scholarships here and more activities I can be a part of. And it’s easier to blend in with the younger kids here. That’s just one of those things you can’t get at a larger school,” she said.

we’re all working 14-hour shifts. “Hopefully, we will have a great turnout,” she said, noting employees of Belk, which will be open from 4 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday, will give away Belk gift cards, one of which will be worth a $1,000 shopping spree, from 4 a.m. to 5 a.m. Friday. “Business has been great this month.” “Usually, we have a good crowd,” said Joanne Beaty, co-owner of The Fashion Barn, located in downtown Columbus. “In the past, we’ve had good days on Friday and Saturday (after Thanksgiving) and we expect to do the same this year. We’ll have a good sale and we do offer lay-a-way (plans); we’ve noticed a lot more people using lay-away.” “The greatest inducement in sales for us is a drop in the temperature, so we’re expecting a really great day, since Friday and Saturday are all supposed to be below 60 degrees,” said Lex Jackson, manager of Reed’s of Columbus, located off Highway 45 North. “We can’t fight the Wal-Marts, KMarts, Belks, price-wise, but we have some specials. Basically, we try to have merchandise keyed into what people want.” “I expect a big crowd,” said Linda Stokes, manager of The Shoe Dept., located in Leigh Mall. “We’re opening at 6 a.m. We’re going to have several different shoes, some purses, on sale.”

West Point employee on leave for misuse of city car BY JASON BROWNE [email protected] WEST POINT — Another job may soon be open in West Point after an office manager at the Water and Light Depar tment was suspended indefinitely Monday. Sources speaking on the condition of anonymity reported Jan Wray was suspended after her husband, Bill Wray, owner of Bumper 2 Bumper Auto Parts, was witnessed driving a city vehicle as the two traveled last week to an out-of-town software workshop. Only city employees are allowed to drive city vehicles. Mayor Scott Ross and City Administrator Randy Jones both would not comment on the matter as it concerns city personnel. The Wrays have been at odds with city officials in the past. In April and May of this year, Clay County Circuit Cour t ordered West Point to pay the Wrays $7,500 in reimbursement and attorney’s fees after the city undertook a clean-up project of Bill Wray’s business in 2006. Old cars and various items were removed from the Bumper 2 Bumper parking lot without Bill Wray’s consent.

During the hearing, Wray claimed the city clean-up panel’s warnings to remove certain items from the front of the business were “vague and contradictory.” Bumper 2 Bumper was also forced to comply with a city sign ordinance banning portable billboards from parking lots. A billboard currently displayed in the front window of Bumper 2 Bumper reads: “What

Sources speaking on the condition of anonymity reported Jan Wray was suspended after her husband, Bill Wray ... was witnessed driving a city vehicle.

would happen if I got a DUI, Mr. Mayor,” a reference to rumors Ross evaded a DUI charge. Jan Wray is the second Water and Light employee to land in trouble in recent weeks. Light Depar tment Interim Superintendent Shasta Plunkett was cleared of charges of disturbing the peace Oct. 27 in West Point Municipal Court.

MUW Continued from Page 1A

They ask teachers. They don’t ask students. This is our way of saying something without being asked,” said Lizzie Locker, a sophomore creative writing major and organizer of the protest. While it may be unlikely legislators in Jackson will take notice of 50 students standing in a line in Columbus, Locker said the protest also was aimed at her fellow MUW students. “There are a lot of students who still don’t even know what’s going on. A lot of us just live in our little study-and-work holes and don’t even think about it. And that’s how it should be in college. You shouldn’t have to worry about your school being absorbed by something else,” she said. “We need to make sure everybody on campus knows what’s going on and what they can do to stop it.”

Merger won’t fly

Stopping the merger may not be necessary as a number of influential state legislators have publicly opposed Gov. Haley Barbour’s proposal to merge MUW with MSU as well as his proposal to merge the state’s historically black colleges — Jackson State, Delta State and Mississippi Valley State. Legislators have told MUW President Dr. Claudia Limbert merging was off the table, Limbert said Sunday during a Friends of the W meeting. But students, faculty and alumni aren’t relaxing. The Friends of the W, a non-affiliated alliance of alumni

Counting the costs Autumn Mason, a freshman speech pathology student, is concerned the monetary benefits being touted by Barbour — $35 million in savings by 2012 — won’t justify the losses to MUW. “One of the great things about MUW is it has a university education with a community college price, which makes it much more available to many students who wouldn’t have been able to go to college,” said Mason. “When they merge, it would mean that price we have now would go up to level out what they have at MSU.” Resident tuition in 2010 for MUW will be $4,423, the lowest among state schools. Tuition at MSU will be a state-high $5,150. Mason also expressed

Tuition concerns, identity crisis Michelle Johnson, a senior psychology student, is able to pay her own tuition and doesn’t want that to change. “Honestly, I’m not ready to pay more tuition each semester. I get no financial aid from the school, yet I’m willing to stand here and say this is my home. If we are merged with another school, I think of it like we will be eaten by another school, because it just won’t exist anymore,” said Johnson. MUW students likely will face a tuition increase regardless. Limbert told the Friends of the W Sunday immediate increases in enrollment and tuition likely would not offset the budget cuts. If the money cannot be raised, according to Limbert, merger might be the school’s only option, resulting in a shuffling of administrators and academic programs. Sophomore family stud-

“We’re going to lose a lot of good quality students who chose those institutions because they have their own niche. With eight public universities, each one has its own niche to separate it from other schools in the area,” said Parker. One of the unique programs which could be on the

with pride. I want to be able to have that. I want my kids to be able to have that, and future generations,” she said. “They could do so many other things. They could combine State and Ole Miss. If they said that, let’s see what would happen. Let’s see how many protests would go on.” If merger talks persist, MUW students say there will be more protests, and they hope to get more students on board. “We had a pretty good turnout today,” said sophomore history major Audrey Avery of the protest march. “But if there’s another one, it should be 10 times this.”

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Its own niche

chopping block at MUW is the Hearin Leadership Program, since MSU already has its Day One Leadership Program. “This university has everything that makes us better citizens and leaders,” said Emily Sullivan, a senior education student and Hearin participant. “All these great leaders, when they leave here, impact their graduate schools.” For senior education major April Boudreau, there’s no more reason to merge MUW and MSU than any other two state schools. MUW’s tradition make it worth maintaining independently, she said. “There’s something about the W that people hold

Two Selected Varieties

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ies major Stacey Jones says that could cost MUW to lose some promising young programs. “Some of the programs here are just starting to develop. Like the counseling program is starting to become very well developed. I’m scared if we merge with State the counseling center might be moved over there and the administrator would have to follow their rules,” said Jones. Amber Parker, a senior communication major, is concerned the W’s communication program will be absorbed into MSU’s because MSU has more money and equipment. In addition, she said, MUW, as well as the three HBCU’s stand to lose their identity in mergers.

Jackson Square

2013 Hwy. 45 North • Columbus • 327-2684

4A THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2009

Opinion AMERICAN HISTORY

THE

DISPATCH

EDITOR’S VIEW

Be thankful, shop local America’s national day of Thanksgiving This is the proclamation which set the precedent for America’s national day of Thanksgiving. Sarah Josepha Hale, a prominent magazine editor, wrote a letter to Lincoln in 1863 urging him to have the “day of our annual Thanksgiving made a National and fixed Union Festival.” She wrote, “You may have observed that, for some years past, there has been an increasing interest felt in our land to have the Thanksgiving held on the same day, in all the States; it now needs National recognition and authoritive fixation, only, to become permanently, an American custom and institution.” According to an April 1, 1864, letter from John Nicolay, one of President Lincoln’s secretaries, this document was written by Secretary of State William Seward, and the original was in his handwriting.

A proclamation by the president of the United States of America The year that is drawing towards its close, has been filled with the blessings of fruitful fields and healthful skies. To these bounties, which are so constantly enjoyed that we are prone to forget the source from which they come, others have been added, which are of so extraordinary a nature, that they cannot fail to penetrate and soften even the heart which is habitually insensible to the ever watchful providence of Almighty God. In the midst of a civil war of unequaled magnitude and severity, which has sometimes seemed to foreign States to invite and to provoke their aggression, peace has been preserved with all nations, order has been maintained, the laws have been respected and obeyed, and harmony has prevailed everywhere except in the theatre of military conflict; while that theatre has been greatly contracted by the advancing armies and navies of the Union. Needful diversions of wealth and of strength from the fields of peaceful industry to the national defence, have not arrested the plough, the shuttle or the ship; the axe has enlarged the borders of our settlements, and the mines, as well of iron and coal as of the precious metals, have yielded even more abundantly than heretofore. Population has steadily increased, notwithstanding the waste that has been made in the camp, the siege and the battle-field; and the country, rejoicing in the consciousness of augmented strength and vigor, is permitted to expect continuance of years with large increase of freedom. No human counsel hath devised nor hath any mortal hand worked out these great things. They are the gracious gifts of the Most High God, who, while dealing with us in anger for our sins, hath nevertheless remembered mercy. It has seemed to me fit and proper that they should be solemnly, reverently and gratefully acknowledged as with one heart and one voice by the whole American People. I do therefore invite my fellow citizens in every part of the United States, and also those who are at sea and those who are sojourning in foreign lands, to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November next, as a day of Thanksgiving and Praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the Heavens. And I recommend to them that while offering up the ascriptions justly due to Him for such singular deliverances and blessings, they do also, with humble penitence for our national perverseness and disobedience, commend to His tender care all those who have become widows, orphans, mourners or sufferers in the lamentable civil strife in which we are unavoidably engaged, and fervently implore the interposition of the Almighty Hand to heal the wounds of the nation and to restore it as soon as may be consistent with the Divine purposes to the full enjoyment of peace, harmony, tranquillity and Union. In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Seal of the United States to be affixed. Done at the City of Washington, this Third day of October, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty-three, and of the Independence of the Unites States the Eighty-eighth. By the President: Abraham Lincoln William H. Seward Secretar y of State

BIRNEY IMES SR. Editor/Publisher 1922-1947 BIRNEY IMES JR. Editor/Publisher 1947-2003 BIRNEY IMES III Editor/Publisher PETER IMES Operations Manager STEVE MULLEN Managing Editor TERRI COLLUMS Business Manager BETH PROFFITT Ad Director JEFF LIPSEY Production Manager JERRY HAYES Pressroom Superintendent

year’s. For many, this long weekEven so, we may see end is about family and more crowds on Black friends, turkey and football, Friday this year. Why? and most of all, gathering Because shoppers are getaround a table and giving ting more and more thrifty. thanks. We’re sniffing out deals. It’s also about shopping. Marketers call us “thrifty Black Friday isn’t actually researchers” — a consumer the busiest shopping day of segment that has grown the year — the Saturday about 30 percent nationwide before Christmas typically just this year. We’re the folks earns that honor — but it’s Steve Mullen who actively seek out barthe traditional kickoff of the gains. We may be buying Christmas shopping season. It’s opening day at the box office. It’s the with cash, but we’re getting the most for our buck. ceremonial first pitch. And when do the best deals of the Shop owners are watching that first year kick in? Black Friday. pitch of the season very carefully. If you felt your old hernia open up They’re looking for George W. Bush in Yankee Stadium after 9/11. They want to when you picked up the paper this morning, you know what we’re talking about. see us collectively thumb our noses to hardship, stride to the mound with confi- (OK, the papers aren’t as thick as they used to be, but everything is relative.) dence, wind up and deliver a perfect Deals are all over the place. strike. Locally, retailers are hoping Black Yet many experts expect our ball to Friday won’t lead to a blue Christmas. fall short of the plate. And, as a city, we can hardly afford one. According to several polls out there, The state Tax Commission has most of us plan to spend about the same returned less sales tax money to the city this year as last. This year’s National Retail Federation’s forecast said as much. this year, so far, than it has in the last Locally, shoppers The Dispatch talked to eight. We’re on track for the worst earnings year since 2001. Just comparing this during open house sales in Columbus a year to last, through October, we’ve few weeks ago said the same thing — spent $39 million less at Lowndes County this Christmas will look a lot like last

businesses (an 11 percent decrease). What can we do? Many households have no choice but to spend less. We’re no different — that was an easy decision. Since we have kids, the tough part is pulling them onto the lap and explaining why Santa will be dropping off fewer presents. “You see, Santa was overinvested in bank stock. He thought Citi was going under, and he sold at the bottom. Santa’s workshop is a toxic asset. The elves got downsized; those left are doing more with less. So, don’t look for that iPod Touch.” What we can do, though, is shop locally when we do spend. We have much to be thankful for in Columbus, retail-wise. We have lots of great locally owned specialty shops downtown, along Highway 45, and elsewhere that could use our love. We have an Old Navy and a Belk’s and a Reed’s and a Penney’s. We have a Sears and a couple of Fred’s, and of course, a WalMart. We have a lot of options for city our size. And we have a hunger for deals. They’re out there. Especially on Friday. Let’s all be thankful for that, and let’s shop in Columbus. Because we’re all sitting around the same table. Steve Mullen is managing editor of The Dispatch. Reach him at [email protected].

THANKSGIVING MEMORIES

Thankful for gangsta rap sees the open door as a Another November, means to salvation. another year of My wife and I called 911 Thanksgiving memories. and then applied anything Should I be thankful or diswe could find to put direct appointed that nothing out pressure on unknown guy’s of the ordinary or even wounds. Paramedics arrived downright weird happened and took over. Cops arrived this holiday? and took unknown guy’s Most of my statement, urging him to Thanksgiving holidays have cooperate with police and gone off without a hitch. not to take matters into his But a few have been real Greg Kane own hands and seek lulus. Take my most memovengeance on knife-wielding rable Thanksgiving maniac. moment. Thanksgiving dinner the next day Actually, it happened the night passed with me occasionally and nervBEFORE Thanksgiving. I was in my ously glancing at the front door. I’ve house, sitting on the couch watching television. Suddenly my son – a teenag- kept a firearm handy in my house ever since that incident. er at the time – shot through the door The strangest Thanksgiving moment with a look of utter terror on his face. “Oh, this CAN’T be good,” I thought occurred a few years. It actually happened about a week before to myself. No sooner had the thought Thanksgiving. I was driving a friend to formulated than a guy I didn’t know from Rudyard Kipling shot through the Detroit to attend her mother’s funeral. We were driving west on I-70 in door, dead on the heels of my son. He Maryland when we saw a turkey runwas wearing a white T-shirt; bloodning east on our side of the road. stains dotted the back. Unknown guy And I’m talking BOOKING. This shut the door and he and my son critter was the Usain Bolt of the turkey quickly bolted it, just in time to avoid world. He sure as heck was the letting some other unknown guy in. smartest. I figured the gobbler had put From my son and the bleeding two and two together, figured out what unknown guy I soon learned what had was about to happen to him in about a happened. My son and a buddy were week’s time and decided to jet. standing on our front porch chatting. “It’ll happen to the rest of you (“Kickin’ it” is the proper slang term.) Unknown guy ran on to my front lawn, turkeys,” I pictured the roadrunner wannabe saying, “but it ain’t happening with a knife-wielding maniac close on his heels. Knife-wielding maniac starts to me.” If my friend and I didn’t have imporstabbing unknown guy ON MY FRONT tant and pressing business in Detroit, I LAWN. Figuring nothing good could swear I would have turned the car possibly come from this situation, my around and followed the turkey to see son’s buddy bolted. My son decided it where he ended up. How desperate was best to probably spend the rest of was he? the evening indoors. Unknown guy

He was headed to a city nicknamed “Bodymore, Murderland” to make his escape. In “the weirdest thing I’ve ever given thanks for” category, rap music would win hands down. You read that correctly: the soon-tobe 58-year-old man likes rap music. And I like it for a reason. Rap helped kill disco. I owe rappers and rap music a debt I can never repay. Yes, I know many in my generation put down rap music – especially gangsta rap – but if the genre helped kill disco, it can’t be all bad. And there are other genres of rap besides gangsta (which I’m NOT a fan of, by the way). There’s even gospel rap. Yeah, I know, it sounds like an oxymoron. Kind of like “good disco music.” Let’s not condemn an entire genre of music just because of one negative offshoot. I say it’s possible to like rap while having a total disdain for gangsta rap. In fact, I cite gangsta rap as one of the three factors in the decline of black student achievement. From the 1960s to around 1988, experts agree the achievement level of black students increased dramatically, with the achievement gap between black and white students getting narrower. Then it stopped. I’ve blamed gangsta rap, the crack cocaine epidemic and the frightening obsession too many young black men have with the movie “Scarface” for the decline. Yes, I know it sounds silly, and I’ve been told so. But that’s my theory, and I’m sticking to it. Kane is a self-syndicated columnist who lives in Baltimore. His e-mail address is [email protected].

READER COMMENT

From our Web site The messages below are excerpts from reader comments posted at the end of online reports at www.cdispatch.com.

The gulf between town and tower 11/23/2009 Dave: Yes, the towns people better wake up. If one looks at the pending budget cuts I am afraid The W campus would be like the ugly step child for MSU and be forgotten. (Think Mary Holmes in West Point) Remember once a closure or merger happens there is no going back! pam: As a “W"grad-’75 I am totally disappointed to see what is happening in Columbus concerning the school. On a recent visit to the area- my first in 30 years- I was appalled at the lack of concern from local citizens and shop owners in downtown when I asked about what was happening at my school. They didn’t

seem to care. Regardless of whom or what they support they need to unite to save this school. … Where is the other support ? Why aren’t the city leaders having planning sessions with legislators...why aren’t the Main Street people hanging signs of support, where are the billboards on 45 that would support and promote the school, who is going to come up with a “slogan” that everyone (including the feuding alums) can use to show support to the ENTIRE state? Get off your behinds Columbus … you (the city) will be the “biggest loser.”

Birney Imes: Georgia school offers example for MUW - 11/21/2009 Jekyll Man at 11/23/2009: Apples and Oranges - As an alum of MSU - and GC&SU - and with a “W” alum as my better half, I can really say there really is no comparison between the W and GC&SU.

I also happened to be on the campus of GC&SU in the mid-90s when the resurgence there began and had Dr. Wilson as my thesis adviser. The Georgia Board of Regents made the decision in the 1960s to change the focus and mission of GC when they changed the name. The IHL and the MS Legislature - have not changed the name or the mission (and hopefully will not). Why not compare The W to a successful women’s university like Texas Western to show what the W could be?

Birney Imes replies: Texas Woman’s University is often mentioned as a model for The W by those opposing name and mission change. I’m not sure why as there are significant differences: TWU has the benefit of having campuses in Denton, Dallas and Houston, all metropolitan areas, and male enrollment at the school is only 5 percent.

THE DISPATCH • www.cdispatch.com

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2009

5A

AREA OBITUARIES

OBITUARY POLICY: Obituaries with basic information including relatives, visitation and service times, are provided free of charge. Extended obituaries with a photograph, detailed biographical information and other details families may wish to include, are available for a fee. Obituaries must be submitted through funeral homes. Free notices must be submitted to the newspaper no later than 3 p.m. the day prior for publication Tuesday through Friday; no later than 4 p.m. Saturday for the Sunday edition; and no later than 7:30 a.m. for the Monday edition. Incomplete notices must be received no later than 7:30 a.m. for the Monday through Friday editions. Paid notices must be received by 3 p.m. for inclusion the next day; and on Friday for Sunday or Monday publication. For more information, call 328-2471.

Helen Naugle

ATLANTA, Ga. — Dr. Helen Bernice Harrold Naugle, 89, died Nov. 20, 2009, in Atlanta. Graveside service are Saturday at 2:30 p.m. in Greenwood Cemetery in West Point. Mrs. Naugle was born Aug. 11, 1920, in West Point to the late Nancy Helen Weddle Harrold and Judson Nixon Harrold. She was the first female professor at the Georgia Institute of Technology where she was recognized with numerous awards. She served as head of the Regents exam committee, the Rhodes Scholar search committee and presented at international conferences. She was a member of St. John United Methodist Church. She was preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by her husband, Jefferson B. Naugle; sister, Ida Judson Harrold Wilkerson; daughter, Helen Naugle Deibler; four granddaughters and two great-grandchildren. Memorials may be made to St. John UMC or Georgia Tech Wesley Foundation.

James Hollingshed STARKVILLE — James Lee Hollingshed, 66, died Nov. 22, 2009, at Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Birmingham, Ala. Services are Friday at 2 p.m. at First Baptist Longveiw Church with the Rev. Larnzy Carpenter officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Visitation is today from 1-6 p.m. at West Memorial Funeral Home. West Memorial Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Mr. Hollingshed was born in 1943 in Oktibbeha County. He was of Baptist Faith.

Laura Rich STARKVILLE — Laura B. Rich, 88, died Nov. 18, 2009, at her family home. Services are Friday at 11 a.m. at Second Baptist Church with the Rev. Riddley Rich Jr. officiating. Burial will follow in Rest Haven Cemetery. Visitation is today from 4-6 p.m. at West Memorial Funeral Home. West Memorial Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Mrs. Rich was born in 1921 in Oktibbeha County. She was a homemaker and of Baptist faith.

Neily Ledbetter WEST POINT — Neily F. “Pete” Ledbetter, 78, died Nov. 23, 2009, at the Specialty Hospital of Meridian. Services were Wednesday at 10 a.m. Calvert Funeral Home Chapel with the Bro. Jonathan Childress officiating. Burial followed in Memorial Garden Cemetery. Calvert Funeral Home of West Point is in charge of arrangements. Mr. Ledbetter was born June 5, 1931, in Nashville, Tenn., to the late Ferrell Lee McPherson Ledbetter and Neily Taft Ledbetter. He was a supervisor for 17

years with Bryan Foods, then he worked as a sales representative for Vee Chemical Company for 20 years. He was a member of West End Baptist Church and he was a veteran. He was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife, Doris M. Ledbetter, of West Point; daughters, Debbie L. Turman, of West Point, Kim White, of Cedar Bluff; son, William F. Ledbetter, of West Point; and two grandsons. Pallbearers were Jeff Cartee, Terry Martin, Mike Weeks, Tim Boatner, Justin Atkinson and Wayne Crosswhite. Memorials may be made to Diabetes Foundation of Mississippi, 800 Avery Blvd., Suite 100, Ridgeland, MS 391575225.

Peter Hodo Peter Hodo Jr., 82, died Nov. 23, 2009, at his residence. Services were Wednesday at 1 p.m. at First United Methodist Church with the Rev. Don Bishop officiating. Burial followed in Amory Masonic Cemetery. Mr. Hodo was born June 13, 1927, in Amory to Peter Thomas Hodo and Nona Mary Seay. He retired as chairman of the Board of First National Bank in West Point in 1997 after having served as President. He was active with the West Point Municipal School District board for almost 20 years, and was active in service to his church. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Frances Hodo Pierce. He is survived by his wife, Patsy Milstead Hodo, of West Point; sons, Peter Thomas Hodo III, of West Point, Patrick William Hodo, of

Hattiesburg; sisters, Carolyn Hodo Cope, of Jackson, Winnie Hodo Frey, of Lansing, Ill., Gaila Hodo Williams, of Hamilton; and four grandchildren. Pallbearers were Peter Thomas Hodo IV, Mark Hazard, Sonny Jameson, Billy Milican, Kyle Chandler, Steve SERVING YOU SINCE 1893

Ethel Esther Troskey Services: 2:00 pm Fri., Nov. 27, 2009 Central United Methodist Church Burial: Friendship Cemetery Visitation: 5:00-7:00 pm Thurs., Nov., 26, 2009 Memorial Funeral Home memorialfuneral.net

James E. Chandler Graveside Services: 10:00am Sat., Nov. 28, 2009 Rowan Cemetery Visitation: 5:00-8:00 pm Fri. Nov. 27, 2009 Gunter & Peel Funeral Home gunterandpeel.com

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Services: 10:00 am Friday, Nov. 27, 2009 Fairview Baptist Church Visitation: 6:00-8:00 pm Thurs., Nov. 26, 2009 Gunter & Peel Funeral Home Burial: Pine Grove Cemetery gunterandpeel.com

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James E. Chandler James E. "Jim" Chandler, age 75, of Warsaw, IN, formerly of Columbus, MS, died November 23, 2009, at Kosciusko Community Hospital in Warsaw, IN. Graveside services will be Saturday, November 28, 2009, at 10:00 AM, at Rowan Cemetery in Steens with military honors and Gunter & Peel Funeral Home directing. Visitation will be Friday, November 27, 2009, from 5:00-8:00 PM at Gunter & Peel Funeral Home. Mr. Chandler was born March 13, 1934 in Columbus, MS to the late James Alfred and Sue L. Cain Chandler. He had lived in Warsaw, IN, for the past 49 years and was a retired semi truck driver for Stump's L. P. Gas of Pierceton, IN. Mr. Chandler served in the Army National Guard of Mississippi and honorably discharged in May of 1955. He was also a member of the North Webster American Legion Post #253 and the Warsaw Moose Lodge. Mr. Chandler was preceded in death by his first wife, Mary Bell McCool Chandler. Survivors include his wife, Jerry Chandler of Warsaw, IN, son, Buddy Chandler (Patti) of Pierceton, IN, daughters, Mary Conway (Jim) of North Webster, IN, Kathy Hutchins (James) of Duncanville, AL, Anita Stump (Jack) of Silver Lake, IN, and Connie Chandler of Pierceton, IN, sister, Essie Mason of Gordo, AL, 14 grandchildren, 24 great grandchildren, and 11 great great grandchildren. Memorials may be made to the Salvation Army 501 Arthur St. Warsaw, IN 46580.

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Bobby Sam "Bob" Boone, age 74, of Columbus, MS, died November 23, 2009, at his residence. Funeral services will be Friday, November 27, 2009, at 10:00 AM at Fairview Baptist Church with Rev. Mickey Dalrymple, Rev. Sammy Crawford, and Rev. Tommy Gillon officiating and Gunter & Peel Funeral Home directing. The body will be at the church one hour prior to the service. The interment will immediately follow at Pine Grove Cemetery in Pickens County, AL. Visitation will be Thursday, November 26, 2009, from 6:00-8:00 PM at Gunter & Peel Funeral Home. Mr. Boone was born July 12, 1935, in Haywood County, NC, to the late Columbus T. and Ethel Angeline Cope Boone. He moved to Columbus from Toleda, WA in 1979 to help build the Weyerhaeuser plant in Columbus. Mr. Boone worked in management for 30 years before he retired in 1991 after 36 years of service. He continued to work as a consultant for the next nine years. He attended Fairview Baptist Church and was preceded in death by a son, Earl Craig Boone. Survivors include his wife, Edna Boone of Columbus, sons, Donnie Jones of Columbus, Raymond Scott Boone (Lindy) of Toleda, WA, and Daniel Kim Boone (Stephanie) of Silver Lake, WA, daughters, Ceal Pate (Joe) of Greenwood, MS, Yolanda Sue Murray (Paul) of Kelso, WA, and Barbara K. Tobias of Toleda, WA, brother, Edwin Roger Boone (Dottie) of Longview, WA, grandchildren, Leah, Christina, & Heather Pate, Joshua Jones, Cindal & Nick Tobias, Raymond, Nesha, Kelcee, Alinia, & Tyrah Boone, Mandy, Nathan, & Russell Williamson, great grandsons, Sayre & Harley Williamson, and a number of nieces and nephews. Pallbearers will be J. B. Cox, Wayne West, E. C. Patterson, Ed Atkins, Ray Crane, Ralph Taylor, and Tim Cox. Honorary pallbearers will be friends, the Friendly City Good Sams, coworkers at Weyerhaeuser, Dr. Walter Cosby, Dr. Rob Jones, and Dr. John Whitecar. Memorials may be made to Fairview Baptist Church 127 Airline Rd. Columbus, MS 39702 or Baptist Memorial Hospice Program P.O. Box 1307 Columbus, MS 39703.

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McKinney, Bud Tumlinson and Jim Helveston. Memorials may be made to the First United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 293, West Point, MS 39773 or the Bryan Public Library at P. O. Box 675, West Point, MS 39773.

Sadie Steel Sadie Steel, 95, died Nov. 24, 2009, in Steens. Arrangements are incomplete and will be announced by Lee-Sykes Funeral Home of Columbus.

See OBITS, 11A

John “Huey” Sanders John Hughlett Sanders, 55 of Columbus, MS passed away Monday, November 16, 2009 at Baptist Memorial Hospital –GT, Columbus, MS. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Mr. Sanders was born January 25, 1954 in Grenada, MS to the late John Sanders and Doris Cunningham Sanders. He was a resident of Columbus, MS for the past 15 years having moved from Grenada, MS. Mr. Sanders was a truck driver, loved his family and music. In addition to his parents he is preceded in death by his wife, Loretta “Jan” McGonagill. Mr. Sanders is survived by his sons – Sean Sanders, Grenada, MS; Levi McGonagill Rodgers, Columbus, MS; mother-in-law Helen Wheeler, Columbus, MS; sister-in-law, Melinda Sams, Columbus, MS; brother-in-law, Chris (Alicia) McGonagill, Calhoun City, MS; nieces, Heather Williams, Holley McGonagill, Anna Grace McGonagill; nephews, Blake Williams, John Thomas Sams and Patrick McGonagill. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Levi McGonagill Rodgers benefit account, c/o Melinda Sams, 168 Delwood Dr., Columbus, MS 39702. Compliments of

Lowndes Funeral Home www.lowndesfuneralhome.net

Ethel Esther Troskey Ethel Esther Troskey, age 84, died Tuesday, November 24, 2009 at her residence in Columbus, MS. Services will be held Friday, November 27 at 2:00 pm at Central United Methodist Church with Rev. Curtis Petrey of Petrey, AL and Rev. Jonathan Speegle of Columbus officiating. Burial will follow at Friendship Cemetery. Visitation will be held Thursday, November 26 from 5 until 7 pm at Memorial Funeral Home. Mrs. Troskey was born on April 3, 1925 in Clinton, Indiana to the late Andrew Benton Gunnoe and the late Anna Gunnoe Pepelea. Esther met her husband-to-be, Francis Thomas Troskey, in high school. They married while he was in the Navy at the end of WWII. They had three children, Gene Thomas, Janet Marie, and Philip Andrew. During the course of her life, Esther worked at two defense plants during WWII, was the secretary to the President of Hanover College, and, later, worked as a secretary at Mississippi State University. While working at MSU, she earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology. She was the owner/manager of two bicycle shops, one in Columbus and one in Starkville, and is still known as the “Bicycle Lady.” Later, she became the secretary for her husband’s business, “Frank Troskey, Forest Manager and Consultant.” Esther participated as a volunteer in various organizations throughout her life: Cub Scouts, the Pink Lady organization at Baptist Memorial Hospital in Columbus, Contact Crisis Center, and adult literacy. She was a fervent Christian and was a member of Central United Methodist Church for many years. Esther had a very full life. She had the companionship of her husband for over 62 years, and had a loving, caring relationship with her children, family members, extended family, and friends. She did work that she enjoyed and was fortunate enough to travel extensively. She was well-loved by all who knew her and was an unofficial wise counselor to more than a few troubled people. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by three brothers, and one sister. She is survived by her husband, their three children, ten grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren, one brother, Dr. Charles Gunnoe of Corona, California, and one sister, Mabel Pugh of Clinton, Indiana. Pallbearers will be relatives and other loved ones. In lieu of flowers, we ask that memorials be made to Central United Methodist Church, 1201 College Street, Columbus, MS 39701, or Palmer Home for Children, P.O. Box 746, Columbus, MS 39703 or The Salvation Army, P.O. Box 8, Columbus, MS 39703.

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6A THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2009

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Business

Source: www.americasaves.org

Bringing the arts to north Starkville BUSINESS: Former restaurant now a cluster of ‘creative offices’ for small businesses BY TIM PRATT Dispatch Starkville Bureau [email protected]

STARKVILLE — Jim Lytle can’t help but get a little teary-eyed when he talks about his new busiMediagraphix ness, Photography, on North Jackson Street. Lytle for years served as chief photographer at Mississippi State University’s Office of A g r i c u l t u r a l Communications. He also has shot for The Associated Press for more than 20 years. But Lytle’s dream has always been to open his own photo gallery and studio. These days, he’s living that dream. Mediagraphix Photography is one of a handful of businesses which opened recently in “The Studios on North Jackson,” located in the 1000 block of North Jackson Street. “In the back of my mind I’ve always wanted to do this,” Lytle said with a smile from his new studio space. “I never believed, never dreamed, that this could ever become possible. You know, this truly is a lifelong dream.” Robbie Coblentz, president of Broadcast Media Group, purchased the old Black Eyed Pea restaurant and divided the 9,200square-foot building into three “creative offices.”

Courtesy Photo

The exterior of The Studios on North Jackson is shown.

Tim Pratt/ Dispatch Staff

Jim Lytle discusses his new studio and gallery space with friend Valerie Phillips last week during an open house at Lytle's business, Mediagraphix Photography. The business opened in The Studios on North Jackson — a project spearheaded by Robbie Coblentz, president of Broadcast Media Group.

“In the back of my mind I’ve always wanted to do this. I never believed, never dreamed, that this could ever become possible. You know, this truly is a lifelong dream.” Jim Lytle owner if Mediagraphix Photography

Marriages

Nov. 17-24 n Trent Lenard Ivy and Peggy Denise Robinson n Rodney Lamont Sherrod and Tanoya McKeesha Wilson n Charles Henry Jones and Beverly Jean Atkins

Divorces

Nov. 17-24 n Jeffrey Lee Montgomery and Tracy Harper Montgomery n Linda Faye Lathan Walker and James Monroe Walker n Cassondra McGraw Galloway and James Thomas Galloway n Sherman Jennings and Shundra Jennings n Marvin Murray and Terrilyn Murray n Linda Hill and Landry Hill

other items, is designed for the working man, Kathleen Griffin said. “We’re real excited about getting this up and running in the U.S.,” she said. “This is a brand new thing.” Griffin also commended Coblentz for the work he’s done to rehabilitate the building. The structure was built in the early 1950s and first served as a car dealership. It has since been a truck repair shop, a nightclub, a restaurant and a community counseling center. Coblentz estimated he put a “a couple hundred thousand” dollars worth of work into the building. Griffin and the other tenants appreciate the hours Coblentz and his wife, Bonnie, spent renovating

Courtesy Photo

In the seating area of The Studios on North Jackson is Richie Davenport, in the foreground, Charlie Griffin and Olof Almstrom, right.

the building this summer. “I think it’s a real asset, not only for Starkville, but for this area of North Jackson,” Griffin said. The north side of town is often seen as underdeveloped and neglected, Coblentz said. He lives in Plantation Homes, down the street from The Studios on North Jackson. He wanted to change what he called an “eyesore” into state-of-the-art workspace. “Bottom line is that we took a vacant and underutilized building, invested in a significant rehab and

are housing five businesses, two of them (Jobman and Mediagraphix) startups,” Coblentz said. “We are cleaning up a corner that has been neglected and creating a new professional work space. On top of that, we have installed state-of-the-art video production suites alongside a new video studio and photography studio. All this happening in the middle of a recession.” Main Street Arts also plans to relocate from its downtown location to The Studios on North Jackson, owner Linda Wade said.

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MARRIAGES AND DIVORCES

clothes. Jobman Workwear is a company which is based out of Sweden, but Charlie and Kathleen Griffin recently opened a U.S. office in The Studios on North Jackson. The clothing, which includes pants, jackets, long-johns and

high definition video-editing bays, an 850-squarefoot studio and mass DVD duplication equipment, plus conference areas and office space. Coblentz moved his office to The Studios on North Jackson from his old building down the street.

Toyota replacing 4M gas pedals that could jam

A:

Q:

I am about to fly on a commercial flight for the first time in my life. What do I need to do to make the trip easier?

Congratulations on taking a big step towards traveling on the safest mode of transportation there is. Here are a few hints from some seasoned travelers: 1. Use the internet to save money. Most airlines now offer discounts for using the online system for everything from making a reservation to checking in for your flight. 2. Pack smart--you are allowed one small carry-on bag and one personal bag (purse, laptop, etc). Other bags must be checked and not exceed 50 pounds. Check the airline website for size and costs for checked baggage. 3. Arrive a minimum of one hour prior to your flight (an hour and a half at larger airports). Most airports stop checking baggage 30 minutes prior (45 minutes at larger airports) and the gate closes 10 minutes prior to departure so the crew can get the engines started and depart on time. 4. Know what you can bring through security, especially for liquids. www.tsa.gov has a list of approved items and good information on items such as medicines, baby formula, etc. 5. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. If you fly out of a smaller airport such as GTR, the people at the airport can help answer any questions you have. Have a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from the Golden Triangle Regional Airport!

© The Dispatch

WASHINGTON — Toyota Motor Corp. said Wednesday it will replace accelerator pedals on about 4 million recalled vehicles in the United States because the pedals can get stuck in the floor mats, another blow to the reputation of the world’s largest automaker. Toyota said dealers will offer to shorten the length of the gas pedals by about 3/4 inch beginning in January, as a stopgap measure while the company develops replacement pedals for their vehicles. New pedals will be installed by dealers on a rolling basis beginning in April, and some vehicles will have brake override systems installed as a precaution.

The northern space contains six individual offices Coblentz is renting to individual businesses. Three tenants rent the space so far, including a start-up company which offers high-quality work

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10A THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2009

Murder

Hemphill wins judge race by four votes; Cooke won’t seek recount

Continued from Page 1A gunshot and a cry of “Oh no.” Douglas Childs was found dead from a single gunshot wound, OCSD Chief Deputy Carrithers George said. “It turns out the wife was the one who shot him,” Carrithers said. Carrithers wouldn’t disclose where Douglas Childs was shot, but did say he believes Verina Childes used a rifle. A relative at the Childs home, located south of Maben in Oktibba County, said the family had no comment Wednesday afternoon.

BY JASON BROWNE [email protected] The race for Lowndes County District 1 Justice Court judge was decided by four votes Tuesday night. Interim Justice Court Judge Chris Hemphill defeated former Justice Court Judge Ron C. Cooke 430-426, or 50.2 percent-49.8 percent. Hemphill Hemphill won despite carrying just two of seven voting precincts and a majority of absentee ballots. With all precincts reporting, Cooke held a nine-vote lead before the absentee ballots, which were last to be counted. “I was behind the whole night. When I lost Columbus High School (precinct) 59-10 I thought that pretty much sealed it up,” said Hemphill.

“But my absentee ballots really came through.” Hemphill’s biggest victory came in Caledonia, where he received 57 percent of 326 votes, the largest turnout for any precinct. Of a total 14,001 eligible voters in the seven precincts, just 5.79 percent, or 811 voters, participated in Tuesday’s runoff election. Cooke, who received 405 votes to Hemphill’s 322 in the Nov. 3 primary election, said he likely won’t ask for a recount unless a procedural mistake or error is reported. “At this point, no. Unless something comes to their attention that may have been a problem with the machines,” he said of requesting a recount. Lowndes County Circuit Clerk Haley Salazar confirmed four blank ballots were cast, but said blank ballots occur in every election, even

back in the days of paper ballots. “It’s not unusual. It is ironic that it was four and (Cooke) lost by four,” said Salazar. Voters using the electronic voting machines are given two chances to review their choices before casting their ballots, she said. Her theory is several people heard of an election in their district and turned out to vote before realizing they knew of neither candidate or had no preference. Furthermore, Salazar said, Cooke has the right to a box review, which is not unusual in close elections. The blank ballots alone, however, will not prompt a recount, she noted. Cooke is satisfied his team did the best they could and may consider running again when the seat is back up for election. “We were pleased with our

results because we worked real hard. We beat the bushes out there. I was satisfied with what we got. I wish we got five more,” said Cooke. Hemphill, who has filled the late Phillip Robertson’s term for the past year, will return to court Monday. “I just feel blessed. The voters of District 1 have put their trust in me. I give all glory to the Lord. I’ve got court Monday morning, I’m told, and I’ll be there serving the people,” he said. The special election was held to fill the judge’s seat left empty when Robertson died in November 2008. Hemphill was appointed by Lowndes County supervisors to fill the seat in the interim. Precincts participating in the Tuesday election were Caledonia, Steens, Immanuel, Airbase, Lee Middle, portions of Columbus High and portions of Brandon.

Council Continued from Page 1A

by Ward 3 posed Councilman Charlie Box, bans smoking in “all enclosed public places,” including restaurants. However, the ordinance, which largely is modeled after a Tennessee state law, allows smoking in “agerestricted venues,” or bars, restaurants and other establishments which only allow people age 21 or over to enter, and “private clubs,” which restrict access to the general public. As written, the ordinance allows businesses with three or fewer employees to designate enclosed smoking rooms, inaccessible to the general public. Additionally, exemptions are provided for “nonenclosed areas of public places, including, open-air patios, porches or decks.” “I’m in favor of a smoking ban, but in no way in favor of the ban as it’s written,” said William “Bart” Lawrence, a co-owner of The Princess Theater. “I believe the only way for this to be fair is if it is across the board. I don’t believe anything good can come from loopholes and

exceptions.”

A decision for the business owners “Most business owners feel like it’s a decision for them,” said Clyde Rhea, a non-smoker who also is a co-owner of Sey’s Sports Bar and Grill. “I think they should have a right to make their decision, without the government, on their own. People should have enough sense to know whether they should or should not (frequent or own a smoking establishment). That being said, it seems the ordinance is inevitable. But I was going to thank you for having the foresight to not have a rubber-stamp ordinance. I thank you for giving Sey’s the option to be age-restricted. “A sports bar like ours is different from a regular restaurant,” he continued. “Someone comes to a place like ours to watch a ball game or to sing karaoke and they’re going to stay a while. If they’re a smoker, they’re not going to stay. It will put a business like ours out of business; that’s a fact.”

“I can’t see why they can’t just leave it the way it is,” Kenny Wiggins said of Columbus not having a smoking ban. “If people don’t allow smoking, they have a sign (prohibiting smoking). And people (who are bothered by smoke), they don’t have to go there. I think you’d be better off to leave it the way it is.” “I feel if there’s going to be a ban, it should be 100 percent across the board,” said Brian Roberts, a coowner of The Princess Theater. “It should be in full, so no one has leverage over another. All of us should have to obey the same rules Hogan also presented a and there should not be an petition with 428 signatures age restriction that changes of residents expressing it.” their “discontent” over the proposed ban. “The decision should be left solely to the proprietor,” “You’ve got to step into he said, noting he signed a the 21st Century,” Bob three-year lease for Sey’s McGrath, a resident who based on the failure of the moved to Columbus five previous ordinance to pass. years ago, told the council. “But if it’s passed, (the ban) “This is ridiculous. Most should be the same as those in Tennessee. Without states have gone no-smoksmoking, we will not sur- ing. Restaurants have, and I don’t see where it’s affected vive.” their business. “All things being equal, five years ago, if Starkville

sit at Sey’s and talk to friends, but there’s no way I can go into that establishment at all. It is a quality-oflife issue, and quality of life is very important to all of us. It is important to our community.” “People smoke,” noted Helen Willis. “They make their choices; they understand the pros and cons of it. All of the people seem pretty content (without an ordinance). Don’t take a person’s civil rights away, a choice to make that decision on our own. We send people to the military to die for our rights, and we’re trying to give them away. The ban, to Susan Mackay, who for- me, is ridiculous.” merly served as Ward 2 councilwoman and spearheaded earlier efforts for “I have serious health the council to enact a smok- issues, and it’s unfortunate I ing ban, said she’s “for an haven’t found that many all-out smoking ban.” places in Columbus that About two years ago, the don’t allow smoking,” said sitting council and an inter- Anne Allen. “I don’t have governmental relations any problem with people committee of city and coun- having a right to smoke, as ty officials considered a long as it doesn’t interfere smoking ban, but the matter with my right to breathe. I’m sure there are lots of never went to a vote. “I think it’s very impor- smokers who aren’t aware tant,” Mackay explained. “I they make someone sick. A suffer from asthma, and the smoking ban would be a gift only thing that brings it out to those of us who have is smoke. I would like to go health problems.”

“I’m opposed to any ordinance banning smoking, because I feel like the customers and business owners should decide that,” said Carl Hogan, who also is a co-owner of Sey’s Sports Bar and Grill. “It should not be forced on them.” “To sit back and try to convince yourselves it doesn’t have an effect on the economy is to fool yourselves,” he added, showing the council data he said supported restaurants and bars in California and other states were hurt by smoking bans.

non-smoking, I were would’ve moved there,” he continued. “As new executives come in, they’re going to have a choice between Columbus and Starkville to reside and, believe you me, we’re going to suffer. For the benefit of the general economy, we need to pass a smoking ban. The vast majority of folks want it nonsmoking.” “I respect others that don’t smoke, but I ask it should be the owner’s right whether to allow smoking,” said Ronald Darnell Clowers.

Petition of ‘discontent’

Past efforts

Columbus versus Starkville

Health concerns

First United Methodist Church

2009 Advent & Christmas Schedule “HANGING OF THE GREENS” SERVICE Sunday, November 29 at 11:00 a.m. in the Sanctuary.

LIGHTING OF THE CITY TREE, CHRISTMAS CAROLS & WASSAIL FEST Friday, December 4 beginning at 5:00 p.m. Next to the Tennessee Williams Welcome Center. FUMC Elementary Singers will be singing at the tree lighting; FUMC’s Chancel Choir will be caroling.

CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS PROGRAM Sunday, December 6 Dinner will begin at 5:00 p.m. in the Artz Fellowship Hall with the program immediately following.

MESSIAH Tuesday, December 8 at 6:00 p.m. & 8:00 p.m. at Annunciation Catholic Church.

93RD ANNUAL WHITE CHRISTMAS PAGEANT Sunday, December 13 at 5:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary.

“DO YOU SEE WHAT I SEE?” CHRISTMAS CONCERT Featuring, Christian recording artists, Todd Agnew, Rush of Fools & Meredith Andrews Thursday, December 17 at 6:30 p.m. in the Artz Fellowship Hall. Tickets are $10.00 in advance and are available at the First United Methodist Church office. Sponsored by the United Methodist Men.

FIRST METHODIST’S CHRISTMAS CONCERT Sunday, December 20 during the 11:00 a.m. Worship service in the Sanctuary.

CHRISTMAS EVE WORSHIP SERVICE Thursday, December 24 at 5:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 27TH WORSHIP SERVICE ONE Worship service at 10:00 a.m. in the Sanctuary. No Sunday School or evening programs.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 3RD WORSHIP SERVICE ONE Worship service at 10:00 a.m. in the Artz Fellowship Hall. No Sunday School or evening programs

602 Main Street, Columbus, MS www.columbusfumc.org • (662) 328-5252

© The Dispatch

THE DISPATCH • www.cdispatch.com

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2009

11A

Obit Continued from Page 5A

James Robbins MACON — James K. “Jimmy” Robbins, 79, died Nov. 23, 2009, at Winston County Medical Center in Louisville. Services are Saturday at 10 a.m. at Macon Independent Methodist Church with Bro. Gary Shelton officiating. Burial will follow in Odd Fellows Cemetery. Visitation is Friday from 6-8 p.m. at Cockrell Funeral Home of Macon. Mr. Robbins was born Aug. 18, 1930, in Macon to the late James Ward and Bessie Rebecca Thompson Robbins. He worked at the Macon Beacon as printer and publisher until his retirement. He was a member of the Macon Independent Church. He was a member of Macon Masonic Lodge No. 40 F and AM and served as grand master. He was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife, Patricia Robbins; stepmother, Nannie George Robbins; daughter, Rebecca Robbins Sims; sons, Jeff Robbins and Jim Robbins; and two granddaughters, all of Macon.

Daisy Burgin Daisy Burgin, 81, died Nov. 19, 2009, at her residence. Services are Friday at 1 p.m. at Carter’s Funeral Chapel with Minister Mickey Watson officiating. Burial will follow in Brick Church Cemetery. Mrs. Burgin was born Jan. 22, 1928, in Lowndes County to the late Grace Wallace. In addition to her mother, she was preceded in death by her husbands,

Fred Jenkins Sr., and George Burgin; sons, Brian Jefferson Burgin, David Burgin Jenkins and Troy Burgin; and brother, Willie Mitchell. She is survived by her children, Fred Jenkins, of Detroit, Mich., Mary Grace Burgin and Tommie Lee Burgin, both of Columbus, Richard Lee Jenkins, of Detroit, Mary Joyce Burgin, of Columbus, Betty Ann Jenkins, of Jackson, Bobby Jenkins, of Columbus and Stanley Jenkins, of Columbus; and brother, Jimmy Mitchell, of Columbus; several grandchildren and greatgrandchildren.

ating. Burial will follow in Fairview Cemetery. Visitation is Friday 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Mr. Wallace was born March 25, 1949, in Lamar County, Ala., to the late Foster Lee Wallace Sr. and Janie Lee Flemmings Wallace. He was a member of the Roxanna Baptist Church. He previously worked at Winfield Cotton Mill and Webster Auction Company. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Charlie Wallace; stepmother, Anice Wallace; and stepsister, Michele Swanigan. He is survived by his daughters, Kiki Phushea Thomas, of Birmingham,

Ala., and Adrianna Wallace, of Columbus; brothers, Foster Wallace Jr., of Guin, Ala. and two stepbrothers; sisters, Brenda Sullivan, of Beaverton, Ala., and two stepsisters.

Ruth Duckworth REFORM, Ala. — Ruth Gray Brown Duckworth, 91, died Nov. 22, 2009, at her family’s home. Services are Saturday at 11 a.m. at Skelton Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Ralph Smith officiating. Burial will follow in Unity Grove Methodist Church Cemetery in Palmetto. Visitation is Friday from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Mrs. Duckworth was

born Oct. 17, 1918, to the late Wilson and Minnie Thomas Brown. She was a member of Friendship Baptist Church and a member of the Rachel Chapter No. 145 Order of Eastern Star. She was a retired employee of Westinghouse in Reform. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Sam J. Duckworth; son, Sam Duckworth Jr.; and granddaughter. She is survived by her daughters, Diane Allen, of Whitinsville, Mass., and Marilyn Driver, of Gordo, Ala.; sons, Arthur Duckworth, of Palmetto, Ala., and Jerry Duckworth, of Ethelsville, Ala.; brother, Preston Brown, of Navarre, Fla.; ten grandchildren and

15 great-grandchildren. Pallbearers are Brian Duckworth, T. J. Duckworth, Billy Curboy, Chris Curboy, Todd Dudley, Jonathan Pate and Jeff Wynne. Memorials may be made to Alabama School for the Blind, P. O. Box, 698, Talladega, AL 35161 in memory of Amanda Driver, or to Hospice of West Alabama, 3851 Loop Road, Tuscaloosa, AL 35404.

See OBITS, 12A

After-school fun: Boys and Girls Club 244-7090

Charles Smith Charles Smith, 51, died Nov. 24, 2009, at Sanctuary Hospice in Tupelo. Arrangements are incomplete and will be announced by Carter’s Funeral Services of Columbus.

Robert Brandon Robert Brandon, 88, died Nov. 25, 2009, at North Mississippi Medical Center in Tupelo. Arrangements are incomplete and will be announced by Lowndes Funeral Home.

Thomas Wallace CARBON HILL, Ala. — Thomas Wallace, 60, died Nov. 20, 2009, at Consult America of Carbon Hill. Services are Saturday at 1 p.m. at Otts Funeral Home Chapel with Elder Joe Mack Bankhead offici-

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12A THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2009

Obits Continued from Page 11A

Rosie Reed

WEST POINT — Rosie M. Reed, 54, died Nov. 21,

p.m. at Mt. Pisgah MB Church in with Pastor Mary Kyle officiating. Burial will follow in Tibbee Cemetery. Visitation is Friday from 4-6 p.m. at Carter’s Funeral Home in West Point. Flowers may be delivered on Friday after 1 p.m. Carter’s Funeral Home of West Point is in charge of arrangements.

2009, at Central Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson. Services are Saturday 1

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ents, he was preceded in death by his son, William Earl Davidson; sister, Dorothy Jean Davidson; brothers, James Davidson, Willie Davidson, Woodrow Davidson and Robert Louis Davidson. He is survived by his son, Dr. Charles Davidson, of West Point; daughters, Tina Smith, of Woodland, and Angela Davidson, of St. Louis, Mo.; brothers, Joe Davidson, of St. Louis, Arnold Davidson and Sterling Davidson, both of

died Nov. 20, 2009, at North Mississippi Medical Center in West Point. Services are Saturday at 3 p.m. at Town Creek MB Church with Dr. Charles Davidson officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Visitation is Friday from 3-6 p.m. at Carter’s mortuary Service Chapel. Mr. Davidson was born May 23,1937, to the late Fred and Ethel Lee GilliamDavidson. In addition to his par-

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Johnny Chandler WEST POINT — Johnny Chandler, 81, died Nov. 19, 2009, at West Point Community Living Center. Services are Saturday at 11 a.m. at Carter’s Mortuary Services with the Rev. Jerome Gill officiating. Burial will follow in Poole’s Memorial Gardens Cemetery. Visitation is Friday from 3-6 p.m. at the funeral home. Mr. Chandler was born Sept. 22, 1927, in Morgan City to the late Marion Chandler and Lue Bertha Chandler. He was retired from public work of the city of West Point. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Jannie Mae Chandler; brothers, Richard Chandler, Willie Chandler, and M. C. Chandler; and sister, Lila Johnson. He is survived by his son, C. D. Chandler, of West Point, daughter, Bonnie Lee Chandler; two grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

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BY SETH BORENSTEIN AP Science Writer

WASHINGTON — Cutting global warming pollution would not only make the planet healthier, it would make people healthier too, new research suggests. Slashing carbon dioxide emissions could save millions of lives, mostly by reducing preventable deaths from heart and lung diseases, according to studies released Wednesday and published in a special issue of The Lancet British medical journal. Global and U.S. health officials unveiled the results as they pushed for health issues to take a more prominent role at upcoming climate change negotiations in Copenhagen. Also on Wednesday, President Barack Obama announced that he would go to Copenhagen at the start of international climate talks. U.S. health officials said the timing was not planned. “Relying on fossil fuels leads to unhealthy lifestyles, increasing our chances for getting sick and in some cases takes years from our lives,” U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius said in a telecast briefing from her home state of Kansas. “As greenhouse gas emissions go down, so do deaths from cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. This is not a small effect.” Sebelius, British health officials, United Nations Secretary General Ban KiMoon and the head of the World Health Organization all took part in briefings based in Washington and London. The journal Lancet took an advocacy role in commissioning the studies and timing their release before the Copenhagen summit, but the science was not affected by the intent, said journal editor Dr. Richard Horton. Instead of looking at the health ills caused by future global warming, as past studies have done, this research looks at the immediate benefits of doing something about the problem, said Linda Birnbaum, director of the U.S. National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. That agency helped fund the studies along with the Wellcome Trust and several other international public health groups.