"Hotdonia": The Problem That Wasn't

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March 14, 2012
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Volume 1 Issue 6
SPORTS TALK
by Jeremiah Short
pp. 21-22
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e Problem at Wasn't
A Hot Night in Hotdonia

Gerhart proclaimed, He is a liar, and you can print that in your paper.
Page 4
Reforming Education Protect Yourself from Violent Crime

A list of tips for adults, on staying safe A letter addressed to the members of the CCVB Board of Directors from Nadia Dale
CCVB Board Must Work on Image

Page 7
Let Money Follow Students
Page 11
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Photos by Christy Tracey unless otherwise noted
EditorsNote
by Joseph B. St. John

Editor-in-Chief
FROM THE EDITOR
EDITORIAL
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Hotdonia
J.B. ST. JOHN
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
The Problem That Wasnt
March 14, 2012
JEREMIAH SHORT
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The beer issue at the Cal-City Grocery is more about political ego than religion.
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Standing in front of the Cal-City Grocery, a person would have to strain their eyes to see the United Pentecostal Church. It is a beautiful structure with a large parking lot and all the amenities needed to ensure a pleasant worshipping experience. On Saturday aernoon, it appears to be as quiet and serene as a baby lamb. However, this is the problem; the fly in the ointment, so to speak, is that the church is too close to the store. Cal-City is in purgatory because three people (Aldermen) say that even though it was built first, Cal-City is too close to the church who worships a God whose first miracle was to turn water into wine, because it sells beer. But, before anyone gets lost in the stereotypical characterizations about "good ol' religious folks, understand that the Pastor of the Church, Grant Mitchell, and his congregation have not made a peep about the existence of Cal-City. No, not a word. ey are too busy living their lives. If they have complained, it has been professional and to the appropriate people. But, they have not shown up at the meetings, all cloaked in righteous indignation. No crazy "witch hunts." No one yelling at meetings or holding picket signs. No one shouting about sin and the demon rum. No, as a matter of fact, this is not a religious or a church issue, at all. It's about three people who feel they can tell the community whether or not they can buy a beer at a particular store, even though the whole county has a history of being wet, while the rest of the State remained dry for decades. For years, this fact was the economic strength of the area, and when this advantage was lost, so where hundreds of jobs.
And, in the middle of this mess we find a business owner, a family who is still grieving the death of a father and the community. Whether or not the February 11, 2012 meeting was legal or not, and whether or not the vote against continuing Cal-City's "grandfather clause exemption was valid, is irrelevant at this point. at will be for the lawyers to resolve.
How can you say to your brother, Let me take the speck out of your eye, when all the time there is a plank in your own eye?
~ A quote from a really famous guy!
However, what is at stake is a business and a sense of fairness and justice. It is always crazy, but when many people feel they have "God on their side," it is all right to act in unethical and bizarre ways. Like a business fighting a lawsuit, being told they can't re-open because it is too close to a church that was built aer the business had been in service for years. And oh, by the way, the church has not been at the meetings being loud and proud and demanding no beer. No, its about three people, or maybe two-and-a-half people, since one of them pulled the old switcheroo on his vote at the February meeting. Whatever it is about, it is not about the church. It is about power and control and what would Jesus do? He would have a glass of wine. Nothing is more despicable than to make a power grab in the name of the Lord. In other "Hotdonia news, the Marshal's oce is becoming another heated topic. On page 3, a letter written from Marshal Kilgore, explaining his actions of the past
few months, can be read. Once again, the old adage "no good deed goes unpunished" is fully expressed, if everything he says in the letter is true. Regardless of who is telling the truth in this matter, and usually it is somewhere in the middle, it is obvious that things are dicult at the Department. Two new deputies were named at the last Town Hall meeting, and it appears that John Pevey and Ben Gill will help take the mantle of law enforcement in town. ey will need lots of luck and determination. It is always tough to work in an environment where there is already so much strife. Add this on top of the fact that Benny Coleman is also under heat from some community members, and Mayor Gerhart is battling with the aldermen, and you can see that all is not well in "Hotdonia." For a little town with so much calm and beauty on the outside, turmoil is bubbling everywhere underneath the surface of the town. Aer the March 6th meeting, many people in the audience mentioned that Caledonia was a nice town with great people in it. But, like in many communities, it is the leadership that has them worried. Like the CCVB, the nature of the Caledonia Town Hall meetings are too personal. People are upset and feelings are hurt. e concepts of organization and decorum are tossed out the window. Everything is personal and everyone has an agenda. And, the tension can be felt before the meeting begins. If change is not implemented, it will only be a matter of time before the breakdown makes the leaders look foolish and impotent. It has to stop before the community loses all respect for their leaders authority. It is time for the leaders of Caledonia to form a legion with the community, and not be a lesion. e spelling of the two words is almost identical, but they have two completely dierent meanings. And, if the Mayor and the Aldermen are not careful, they will be a sore on the community. Meanwhile, while the leaders fix their problems, leave Jesus and the churches alone. If you don't want the store to sell beer, just say so. Don't hide behind the mask of piety, to make your decision. e Church down the road is too busy for this foolishness. ey're trying to save souls.
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Columbus Mayor, City Council Lombardi: Always Prepared Set Land Speed Record
In what had to be the shortest City Council meeting on record, the Mayor and Council managed to conduct the Citys business and be on their way out of the door by 5:18pm. ats right, folks; the meeting was gaveled to a close, just EIGHTEEN MINUTES aer it began! How do you manage such a feat? Two words: avoid controversy. they discussed the fact that the bid on the Old River Bridge Restoration project came in at about $400K over the amount that had been budgeted for the project. However, without any wailing or gnashing of teeth, the City Council voted to re-bid the project at a later date. So, the end results were that no unkind words were spoken, nobodys blood pressure was raised, and everybody was out of there in time to catch the last thirty minutes of happy hour. Now, thats my kind of meeting! Aer watching this year's Super Bowl, it is clear to me that the man whose name is on the trophy should never be forgotten. He was hardworking, dedicated and a football giant. He is the standard of all greatness in professional spots. He is Lombardi. Lombardis greatness stemmed from his ability to understand the moment at hand. Not just focusing on winning and losing alone, he understood what it took to win and what caused defeat. He saw how all the pieces came together. He had a clear picture of what he wanted to accomplish and how to successfully complete his goal. Everyone wants to be a winner. No one goes into the game, a battle or life hoping to lose. Everyone wants to be seen as a successful person. However, most people do not know how to win. ey see the rewards of greatness. ey see the acclaim given to the victors and the confidence that success breeds; however, they dont want to do what it takes to accomplish this goal. Lombardi understood that, if a person or a team accomplished certain goals, victories would be attained. He worried about the small integral parts of the game. Blocking, tackling, conditioning all were stressed. Football is a game built on small steps. When football is examined closely, it is a game of small battles. e team that wins the greatest amount of battles, usually wins the game. Preparation, planning and practice created an environment that allowed the Packers to be successful. Lom-
FROM THE EDITOR
bardi knew that the Packers might not always be the most talented team, but they could be the most prepared team. He drilled the basics, over and over, and focused on the fundamental elements of football. e beauty of the plan was in its simplicity. Each play was carefully planned. Each plan was carefully executed. e drills were run over and over, until they were models of perfection. Perfection was so engraved in his men that, on Sunday aernoon, his men could run over their opposition, even when the other team knew which play was coming. Teams knew that the power sweep, the most beautiful of all of Lombardis plays, was coming. All they had to do was stop. More oen than not, that did not happen, and that play set the tone for the Packers success. Lombardis simple approach of winning the little battles, led to victory. He coached the Packers for nine years and won five championships. A regular season winning-percentage of 73.8%, and 90% in the postseason. It is a success rate that most coaches, at any level, would dream of having. Lombardi did it in the NFL. Lombardi was a winner. He understood the ingredients necessary to build a winning team. A simple recipe for success for all to follow.
March 14, 2012
Perhaps the Mayor and Councilmen took a look at the recent shenanigans of their counterparts to the north (Caledonia), and decided to fly under the radar.
You know that, when the highlight of the meeting is a Mayoral proclamation to the Red Cross, its a quiet night at the Municipal Complex.
e closest that our local elected officials came to controversy was when
Real Story Sta Report
Ben Kilgore Press Release

Editors Note: is press release was issued by Ben Kilgore, Caledonia Town Marshal, in response to last nights Board of Aldermen meeting. In the last two months, Caledonia has had two long-time Deputy Marshals walk o the job. One never stated to me or gave me a written reason as to why he le. e other said, in his resignation, that he did not like the way in which the Department was headed, and that he had lost all respect for the Department Head. I am the same Department Head who did not write him up for sleeping on a Sunday aernoon in the patrol car, at the park (with his duty belt laying on the seat beside him); for having his girlfriend in the patrol car on a high-speed pursuit; for being late for work; for taking a bicycle, which was evidence (and recovered stolen property) home for personal use; who allowed him to work during the day, every other Friday, so that he could go to another town to pick his kids up for the weekend, etc. Both ocers had over ten years as a Deputy Marshal and even more with other agencies. Both are ranked ocers with the Lowndes County Sheri 's Department. Both are very well trained ocers. e problem they had with me, I assume, is the following: I asked them to do their job; I asked them to be on-time; I asked them to be in Caledonia's uniform; I asked them to treat the citizens and visitors with respect; I asked them not to come and get a patrol car, then go inservice and go home; and I asked them to stay inside the city limits, while on duty. I told them I was changing the schedule to benefit the needs of Caledonia, and that I would try to work around their Sheri 's Department duties, but Caledonia came first. I was employed to provide the best coverage for Caledonia I could, with the number of man-hours and manpower that was given to me by the Board. I would expect an 18-year-old high school drop-out with a labor job to simply walk o his job in the middle of a shi. One of these ocers was scheduled to get o at 10:30PM, aer the stores close. He le at 8:00PM, without notifying me that he was quitting, so that I or another Deputy Marshal could have come on duty. He le the store employees vulnerable to any type of crime. Most of these are ladies that have to close the store alone at night. ey are accustomed to seeing a marked Marshal's car around, when they close. A trained professional does not just walk o the job, without a notice, in the middle of his shi. If you do not like me, that is fine. If you do not respect me, that is fine. But don't say you care about Caledonia and its citizens, and not give some type notice and just leave.. Ben Kilgore Caledonia Town Marshal Reader Comments Street King says: March 7, 2012 at 2:23 pm I dont really have a dog in this hunt, but aer reading the above, if you knew he was doing all of that and you allowed it to occur without firing him, youre just as at fault as he was. e above press release really makes you look like a good ole boy leader who covered for his buddy and now youre mad because your buddy le you hanging. e way this is written, it makes you look worse than it does the deputy because youre the boss. Raider says: March 7, 2012 at 4:07 pm I believe if Kilgore reads his own letter, he will figure out why the deputies felt like they could just quit. If the individuals could sleep on duty, show up late for work, check in for duty and then go home (misappropriation) or fail to adequately insure their weapon was secure and not get into any trouble what would you expect? I have to agree with Street King, your letter makes you look worse. I would suggest that you just let this story die and learn from it. Although, it may be too late now. Betty says: March 9, 2012 at 7:02 pm e With George as Mayor it will always be a 1 horse town. Oh they voted him in TWICE. You cant fix stupid !!!!!!!!! Howard says: March 9, 2012 at 7:31 pm e You got that right Ms. Betty. e one horse is a jackass. I cant wait till the next election.
Joseph B. St. John

stjohnjb@realstorypublishing.com
FROM THE EDITOR
A Hot Night in Hotdonia

The March 7, 2012 Town of Caledonia Mayor and Board of Aldermens Meeting
What started out as a friendly town meeting in Caledonia, turned into a large brouhaha. A meeting that was expected to be highlighted by an appeal of the Cal-City Grocery Store decision of February 11, 2012, turned into a meltdown about the Town Marshal's oce and Water Department, with no feelings spared. e assembly, led by Mayor Gerhart, was heated and oen spectacular, as innuendos about town employees and personnel issues exploded on the scene, with no thought of "executive session" or concern about privacy rights. e "heat" was put out to the audience, quick and heavy, with the person of scorn oen sitting in attendance. e biggest "shoot out" of the night was between Mayor Gerhart and Town Marshal Ben Kilgore. During what should have been a routine appointment of two new Deputy Marshals, Ben Gill and John Pevey, all mayhem broke loose aer Mayor Gerhart attempted to name another candidate, Steve Johnston. In "no holds barred fashion", the battle was on. e heated situation appears to hinge on the resignation of ex- Deputy Marshal Larry Swearingen. Mayor Gerhart read the letter of resignation to the crowd and then stopped before finishing it. Marshal Kilgore than stated, "Go ahead: read the rest." Aer a brief silence, Gerhart read the following statement from Swearingen's letter: As for the department I worked under; I can no longer fill my obligations. I know what is required to run a department in a proficient, professional manner, due to the fact that I do it on a daily basis with my full-time job. e way the current leadership is headed is a way I cannot and will not go down. Due to the fact that I have lost all respect for the department head, I no longer wish to be aliated with the Caledonia Marshals Department.
(e entire letter can be seen at the end of the article)
e pace of the event quickened, aer the reading of the letter, and Marshal Kilgore challenged Mayor
perintendent Benny Coleman, the Robertsons made it clear that they were being treated unfairly. When asked by Alderwoman Willis if the Mayor Gerhart stated, "who ever told you that lied." And, then he chal- work could be completed by the Water lenged the Marshal to reveal his Department, Mrs. Robertson stated sources. Kilgore then called on Lance that she felt Coleman tried to make Lucky, a Columbus Police Department her feel stupid and that eight months was enough time to complete the proj(CPD) Ocer and ect. Also, the part-time Deputy Town has not been Marshal, to repeat Gerhart proclaimed, able to produce a what he had heard. copy of the easeLucky did say that "He is a liar and you can ment for their he was approached by CPD Lieutenant print that in your paper." property, over a period of several Carroll Culpepper months. and was told by A vote was taken to get another bid, Culpepper that he (Culpepper) had talked to Gerhart and was told that since the aldermen thought a price tag Kilgore would be suspended or fired. of more than $10,000 was too high. is battle is far from over. At this point, Gerhart proclaimed, "He is a liar and you can print that in e ever-continuing saga over "Cal your paper." e two sides then con- City" ended in a whimper, with no altinued to break down, with each side dermen or City attorney commenting making accusations. e most serious on accusations made by Je Doty that of these were that Swearingen had the previous meeting had been held ilused a red bike that was evidence in a legally and that the Aldermen had inlarceny case for his personal use. advertently voted yes to his request (Mayor Gerhart was also implicated to reopen the business. for taking the bike from Swearingen No one said a word, in response, and illegally leaving it outside.) Gerwhich le the discussion to die. hart countered he had taken it (the red bike) to the courthouse, a building In a phone interview Mr. Doty which Kilgore proclaimed did not stated, "I have a beer permit and I am exist. re-opening the business." Kilgore also confided that SwearinSo, to sum it up, it was a wild night gen was unreliable to work with, and in Caledonia! that his duties as a training ocer for Joseph B. St. John the Lowndes County Sheri s Oce A/K/A Mr. MoJo Rising (LCSO) were interfering with his duties as a town marshal. Kilgore was Editors Note e following is exadamant that Swearingen had been Deputy Marshal Swearingen's letunreliable and had not put the town's ter in its entirety: best interests at heart. Pevey and Gill were hired, with a 50 vote, and will start work in the very To: Caledonia Mayor Board of Aldermen near future. In other wild business, the battle be- From: Deputy Marshal Larry Swearingen tween citizens Jim and Pam Robertson and the Caledonia Water Department Date: 29 Feb 2012 continued, with no resolution. e Ref: Resignation Robertsons claim that over $10,000 dollars of damage was done to their Greetings, property during a city project that inI have enjoyed working for the Town volved laying a waterline, and that of Caledonia since Sept. 3, 2003. I have they have waited over eight months to made numerous friends and met a get their repairs completed. good many people during my time Calling out Water Department Su- and service with this department. I Gerhart on "scuttle-butt" he had heard about the Mayor either suspending or firing him at the meeting.
have nothing but respect for the Mayor and the Board and wish each and every one of you the best of luck in your upcoming endeavors. May God bless each and every one of you!!!! I love being a law enforcement ocer, because it is a profession where you get to help people under all kinds of circumstances. Recently, my role in law enforcement has changed directions and now I'm able to help ocers better themselves through training. My current role has me being out of town a good bit, spending time away from family. To me, family is more important and when I'm home I'd rather be spending time with them. As for the department I worked under, I can no longer fulfill my obligations. I know what is required to run a department in a proficient, professional manner, due to the fact that I do it on a daily basis with my full time job. e way the current leadership is headed is a way I cannot and will not go down. Due to the fact that I have lost all respect for the department head, I no longer wish to be aliated with the Caledonia Marshals Department. My resignation will be eective at the end of my shi at 10:00 p.m. Wednesday, the 29th day of February, 2012. Keys and all issued equipment will be turned over to Mayor George Gerhart. If I can be of any assistance to any of you, feel free to contact me at any time. Sincerely, Larry Swearingen Reader Comment
Patty says: March 8, 2012 at 10:30 am e I love my little town and am glad to be able to read about what is going on here. anks Joe! From my own experiences I believe that Ben Kilgore is doing a very good job as our Town Marshal, and that Bennie Coleman is doing a very good job at the Water Dept., and Ill leave the rest of it alone. Also, glad to hear that Cal-City is about to reopen; I dont drink beer, but am glad others will again be able buy it in their home town. Welcome to Caledonia, Je Doty!
March 14, 2012
Liddell Provides Update to Teachers, Sta

Dear Columbus Schools Teachers & Sta: fected employees should contact the district's Personnel Oce and submit the following information aer Spring Break: an updated Employment Application (showing all years of experience to-date); a Letter of Interest, indicating that you would like to be considered for re-employment in the Columbus School District; and a current Resume that describes all of your professional qualifications. Proposed Charter Schools Legislation - MAEP & Local Dollars Will Follow Students (is is serious.) It is important that educators, administrators and sta understand that the proposed Charter School legislation that is on the horizon will have a serious impact on school districts rated "Successful or Below" in the state's accountability system. e most proactive way for Columbus Schools to address the opening of Charter Schools is to improve student achievement. Although the district's budget concerns will require larger class sizes for next school year, I am working on a plan to keep class sizes smaller for core areas of instruction, across the school district. Principals and teachers will have an opportunity to help design this new state-of-the-art instructional achievement plan. I am including an update from Jackson, today, regarding the Charter Schools Movement in Mississippi. Please review this important information when you have some time. I've included the House and Senate Bill versions for your review. Charter Schools will be a game-changer in the public schools landscape in Mississippi. We must be prepared, both academically and financially, for the potential entry of Charter Schools in our area. anks for all you do for our students everyday, in and out of the classroom. (Find out more about the Charter bills below) Dr. Liddell, Interim Superintendent Columbus Municipal School District Here is a Synopsis of the Charter Schools Legislation (From e Parents' Campaign): Senate Bill 2401 Mississippi Public Charter Schools Act of 2012: Allows conversion, startup, and virtual public charter schools to locate throughout the state. High PerSee UPDATE Pg. 6
FROM THE EDITOR
State & Benchmark Student Assessments Follow Up: I wanted to take some time, this afternoon, to wish each of you a restful Spring Break with your families. It's been a very busy year. Last week, our 4th and 7th graders wrapped up the State's Writing Assessments and CHS students completed their benchmark assessments. Our principals have reported to me that the assessment periods went very smoothly, at each site. anks, everyone, for all your hard work.
March 14, 2012
State Budget Progress Monitoring Underway: e budget process in Jackson is getting underway, and funding appropriations are scheduled to take place during the last two weeks of April, before the close of the regular session. If all goes well, Governor Bryant could sign o on the state's approved budget by the end of April. With this step completed, the school district can position itself to begin the re-hiring process of personnel members affected by the Reduction in Force (RIF). e re-hiring process for critical areas, such as special education, specialized certification, and secondary education will begin in early May. Our goal is to begin the re-hiring process before school is out, or as soon as the state adopts the education budget for fiscal year 2012-2013.
(Reminder) RIF Aected Employees Will Receive Hiring Priority: Please keep in mind that RIF-affected employees will receive hiring priority. Principals will conduct interviews with RIF-aected sta seeking to be re-employed, using a Board-approved rubric, to ensure fairness in hiring practices for all involved. I'm deeply committed to rehiring as many RIF-aected employees as financially feasible, once the state adopts its budget. I anticipate being able to rehire 35-40 RIF-aected employees, based on critical needs and student enrollment by school. We anticipate the state budget being adopted in late April or May; however, the exact date the state budget will be adopted is unknown, at this time. I will keep everyone informed as the state works through the budget appropriations process.
Mississippi Adequate Education Program (MAEP) Funding Details: is state's process determines the amount of funding the Columbus School District will receive through the Mississippi Adequate Education Program (MAEP). e MAEP funding formula is a major driver in a school districts' ability to set a personnel budget each school year that is based on the dollars expected from the state. Presently, the CMSD Budget Team and I are identifying all critical needs areas and reviewing Columbus School's anticipated enrollment figures by school. We are in the process of developing a re-hiring plan based on this information. e next step for RIF-aected sta is to update your employment file with the Columbus School District.
RIF-Aected Employees Next Steps To Update Your Employment Files: e personnel department will take updates from RIF-aected employees, beginning on March 19, 2012. To update their employment file, RIF-af-
FROM THE EDITOR
Cal-City Grocery Moving Forward

Je Doty, the new owner of Cal-City Grocery, announced yesterday that he was moving forward with his plans to re-open the store in the very near future. "I am not here to start trouble" said Doty. "I am here to open a legitimate business." Reiterating his point that he felt that the February 11, 2012 Board of Aldermen meeting was conducted improperly and that the vote was, therefore, void, Doty is planning to move forward. During a tour of the building, Doty explained his plan to be a family-oriented business that would serve food and other day-to-day items, not just cold beer. "I don't want to start a war. I want to get along with everyone" Doty explained. "But, I have a valid beer permit and I am going to open my business. It is that simple." Cal-City Grocery has been in existence since 1973. During that time, it had been allowed to function freely, and has served cold beer since its inception. Additionally, it was given a grandfather clause exemption in 1982, when the Town of Caledonia made provisions that alcohol could not be sold within 1,500 feet of a church. At the February 11 meeting, Cal-City lost its right to sell beer. e vote was three-to-two, with only Aldermen Quinn Parham and Mike Savage voting yes to continue the grandfather clause for Cal-City. Shortly aer the meeting, the vote was met with shock, as many individuals close to the situation were advised that Alderman Bill Darnell had changed his mind, aer supporting the Cal-City request in private session. e meeting, in general, has come under great scrutiny. And, at the March
March 14, 2012
Cal-City Grocery owner, Je Doty, says he wants business, not trouble.
6th Town Hall meeting, Doty and Attorney Steve Wallace, who represents the Pearrow estate, made a passionate plea to the board to reverse their decision, based on their contention that the meeting was held illegally. e major concerns brought before the Aldermen were that the involved parties felt that the board had acted improperly in the February 11 meeting, and that the Aldermen had inadvertently voted to allow Cal-City to keep its "grandfather" clause. Also, Wallace was adamant that there was no legal precedent or Attorney General's opinion that confirmed Board Attorney Je Smith's belief that a business being closed for 24 hours was a legitimate reason for stripping it of its grandfather" status. e Aldermen listened to the plea and the accusations, but did nothing. No motion was made to discuss the situation, and the controversy died with a whimper.
During yesterday's visit, Doty remained strong in his belief. He hung posters announcing the business would be re-opened. Alongside the posters, he posted a copy of his beer permit. He is completely committed to re-opening the business. He is already contacting vendors to stock the store. ey will be more news about this adventure in the coming months.
Joseph B. St. John

A/K/A Mr. MoJo Rising
Copy of beer permit and privilege license.
UPDATE cont. from pg. 5

forming and Star school districts must give board approval for charters to locate within their districts; Creates the Mississippi Public Charter School Accountability Board, which consists of seven appointed members, to serve as the sole authorizer of charter schools. Students may cross district lines to attend charter schools; Allows state and local per-pupil funding to follow students; Charter schools are subject to the same accountability assessments and ratings, as traditional public schools.
Referred to Senate Education Committee, 2/15/12 Amended by Senate Education Committee to prohibit virtual charter schools and to allow pre-K to be oered in charter schools if privately funded; passed by Committee as amended, 2/21/12 Debated by full Senate; Amendment 1 proposed to authorize charters only for Low Performing, At Risk of Failing, and Failing schools; amendment failed; 19 yeas, 32 nays, 1 absent; 2/22/12 e Parents' Campaign favors a "yea" vote on this amendment. Bill passed by full Senate, without
amendments; 34 yeas, 17 nays, 1 absent, 2/22/12 House Bill 888 Mississippi Public Charter Schools Act of 2012: Allows conversion, start-up, and virtual public charter schools to locate throughout the state; Allows multiple authorizers of charter schools; Allows students to cross district lines to attend charter schools and provides for state and local per pupil funding to follow students; Holds charter schools to the same accountability assessments and ratings as traditional public schools.
Referred to House Education Committee, 2/20/12 Amended by House Education Committee to allow conversion and start-up public charter schools only in districts rated Successful or below, to require that charter management organizations have a track record of success, to authorize virtual public schools (referred to in the original bill as "virtual public charter schools") to contract with a charter authorizer to oer educational services, predominately through an on-line program; passed by Committee as amended; 14 yeas, 12 nays, 2/29/12
CCVB Board Must Work on Image

Editors Note: e following is a letter, addressed to the members of the Board of Directors of the Columbus-Lowndes Convention & Visitors Bureau, which was provided to e Real Story. a decision to hire general counsel. ere are fewer claims that will more quickly destroy progress than being suspected of racism. However, I believe this editorial missed an important point. To me, the decision was disappointing because it reflects a systemic and historical pattern of discrimination. An African-American attorney, to the best of my knowledge, has never been selected to represent a public board in Lowndes County. Most oen, the decision to pass on black applicants is supposedly based on their lack of experience. But, unless a person is initially given a chance, and if one has been historically denied, then the cycle of denied opportunity continues. As public servants, we have to concern ourselves with equity in such a pattern; not only in the sense of acting in fairness, but also in utilizing power to take responsible risks, in order to balance an uneven playing field. Ignoring the pattern only fuels the type of racial tension and distrust that will leave us doing more to sell papers, embarrassing our city than to promote tourism. erefore, my concerns with the selection of a Board Attorney had more to do with the historical pattern of denied opportunities, than whether the CCVB chose Chris Latimer or the Colom Law Firm. Nevertheless, with this decision behind us, the question I believe we should be asking ourselves is: How are we making decisions and what decisions are we presently making to ensure a positive impact on the future of Columbus through the CCVB? One decision to be proud of is the adoption of the accrual accounting system, which will tremendously decrease the likelihood that the festival community will ever have to face another unpredictable funding year, again. e community can no longer aord for us to continue in the power struggle between the LINK & the festival community. Otherwise, the City and County ocials can add a line item to their own budgets to support economic development & grant funding for community projects with the tax revenues the CCVB receives. One city ocial, grippingly, posed the question If the CVB did not fund events, what would they be doing to promote tourism? is is an important question, though, because it brings our conversations outside of its current box. Why couldnt we find ways to creatively support events that are important to the community and fund more sustainable quality-of-life projects? We need projects that open possibilities for tourism, 365 days a year. With two thriving institutions of higher learning; factories producing steel, transfer trucks & helicopters; and an Air Force base ALL within our reach, I think were overlooking opportunities to creatively put these dollars to good use. Even if this means first investing in the community on a smaller scale - for example, with the R.E. Hunt Cultural Center & Museum and our Columbus Arts Council. ese are two spaces with great potential to draw tourists, but which are in need of more funding. At this point, I am not certain that the Board, with all of its present challenges, will rise above the tension and seek mutual understanding, to improve what we do as an organization. We may have to explore and purge the sources of our distrust before really being able to move forward. However, I appeal to you that we all set our energy, hearts and mind on doing just that- moving forward. Not just for ourselves, but for the entire city. Sincerely,
COMMUNITY
March 14, 2012
With respect to my fellow board members & those supporting my appointment to the CCVB Board: I came to this board hoping to seize an opportunity to learn and grow from working closely with an experienced and diverse group of constituents, toward the common goal of promoting tourism for Columbus/ Lowndes County. However, aer this first year of service, I am no longer clear that this is the common goal of our board. From where I sit, our obligation to tourism has been stifled by personal agendas, manipulation, rhetoric and most unfortunately, a lack of racial awareness. Having a wealth of experiences working and living among various ethnic groups (and still benefiting from those relationships), I believe that all endeavors turn out best when people have a basic level of trust, respect and understanding. In a recent editorial, our board was criticized for accusations of racism in
Nadia Dale
Columbus-Lowndes Library Gears Up for Newly Released 1940 Census Records

Family Search International, Archives.com, and FindMyPast.com have teamed up as sponsors of the 1940 Census Community Project, a joint effort to leverage volunteers to index the entire census. Family Search currently has about 140,000 volunteer indexers that help make digital documents searchable by name. With the excitement over the new census, that number could skyrocket to the quarter million or 400,000 range. Currently, the 1940 and later censuses are not available for public use because of a statutory 72-year restriction on access, for privacy reasons. (92 Stat. 915; Public Law 95-416; October 5, 1978). ere is a countdown clock available on the National Archives and Records Administration website, along with further information about the release of the 1940 Census that can be found at http://www.archives.gov/research/ census/1940.
On April 2, the National Archives and Records Administration will make individual records from the 1940 Census available to the public, for the first time, at 9:00 AM (Eastern Daylight Time). e Columbus-Lowndes Public Library would like to invite everyone to utilize the librarys more than thirty computers to view and search the newly-released Census. ough the records will be available, starting in early April, they will not be indexed initially, which means they will not be searchable by name. You can locate people by identifying the enumeration district in which they lived in 1940, and then browsing the census population schedules for that enumeration district. In order to help find someones enumeration district visit www.stevemorse.org/census. e 1940 Census was conducted during a momentous time in our nation's history, as the Great Depression was winding down and it was not long before the entry of the United States into World War II. It marked the only census conducted during the lengthy presidency of Franklin D. Roosevelt. Many of the questions on the 1940 census are the standard ones: name, age, gender, race, education, and place of birth. But, the 1940 census also asked many new questions. e instructions asked the enumerator to enter an [a circled x] aer the name of the person furnishing the information about the family; whether the person worked for the CCC, WPA, or NYA the week of March 24-30, 1940; and income for the twelve months ending December 31, 1939. e release of the 1940 Census is extraordinarily important, because of the links to parents, grandparents and great-grandparents that will be accessible to family historians and researchers for the very first time,
Archivist Mona K. Vance said. e library currently provides patrons free access to the research databases, Ancestry.com Library Edition and HeritageQuest Online. e data-
bases provide a way to search a vast array of records useful in historical and genealogical research, such as the federal census, war service records, and over 12,000 local and family history books.
Special to e Real Story
RECIPE
A Suggestion for Bomb Threateners

When will this craziness end? I realize that this question is a ri on one you may have heard, recently, but that doesnt render it any less appropriate or relevant. It has seemed as if hardly a day goes by, without some IDIOT thats right, I said it calling in a bomb threat to one of our local schools. e reason that I have referred to the perpetrator (s) as an idiot is that they have, obviously, not considered the consequences of their actions. Perhaps he (I will use he for expediency, although the caller could female) called in the bomb threat because he is a student and wanted a day o from school. Maybe he did it because it gave him a feeling of power. Perhaps he was just bored. Whatever the reason, he obviously didnt think about the consequences. So, Mr. Perpetrator, I would like to ask you to ponder the following questions: What if your mother or father was having a heart attack, but an ambulance couldnt get to them in time, because it was tied up at the scene of the bomb threat? What if your sister, in her haste to get to the school to pick up her child, ran a red light and got injured or killed in a wreck? What if somebody sees a suspicious package, thinks it just another incidence of that nutty bomb THINK ABOUT IT!
threat person, and doesnt call the authorities? Oh, and then, it really is a bomb and it goes o, maiming or killing untold numbers of people?
March 14, 2012
Now, one last question. What if the victim in any of the above scenarios was you? en, the last thought that you would have is Why was I such an idiot?
e Real Story Sta
PIzzA oN THE GRILL

Prep Time: 2:45 Min Ready In: 3 Hrs Cook Time: 15 Min Servings: 16 Ingredients 1 (.25 ounce) package active dry yeast 1 cup warm water 1 pinch white sugar 2 teaspoons kosher salt 1 tablespoon olive oil 3 1/3 cups all-purpose flour 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil 1/2 cup olive oil 1 teaspoon minced garlic 1/4 cup tomato sauce 1 cup chopped tomatoes 1/4 cup sliced black olives 1/4 cup roasted red peppers 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese 4 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
Directions In a bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water, and mix in sugar. Proof for ten minutes, or until frothy. Mix in the salt, olive oil, and flour until dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl. Turn onto a lightly floured surface. Knead until smooth, about 8 minutes. Place dough in a well oiled bowl, and cover with a damp cloth. Set aside to rise until doubled, about 1 hour. Punch down, and knead in garlic and basil. Set aside to rise for 1 more hour, or until doubled again. Preheat grill for high heat. Heat olive oil with garlic for 30 seconds in the microwave. Set aside. Punch down dough, and divide in half. Form each half into an oblong shape 3/8 to 1/2 inch thick. Brush grill grate with garlic flavored olive oil. Carefully place one piece of dough on hot grill. e dough will begin to pu almost immediately. When the bottom crust has lightly browned, turn the dough over using two spatulas. Working quickly, brush oil over crust, and then brush with 2 tablespoons tomato sauce. Arrange 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes, 1/8 cup sliced black olives, and 1/8 cup roasted red peppers over crust. Sprinkle with 1 cup cheese and 2 tablespoons basil. Close the lid, and cook until the cheese melts. Remove from grill, and set aside to cool for a few minutes while you prepare the second pizza.
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Update from Issue 1:
ENTERTAINMENT
Back at the Home Front in ol Virginia

My buddies did not win their contest, but they had a good time trying. eir band, Tusko Fatale, had been nominated for "Best Video" in Veer Magazine's Local Music Awards. e song, "e Ghost of a Hurricane" was written by my lifelong friend, David Orr and the video was his creation. I have included pictures of the group and, as you can see, I would fit in right with them, especially nowadays. Bob Gurske passed away, last year, and he is still deeply missed. RIP Bob! David and Donnie are still rocking in Virginia, and I am also rocking in the great State of Mississippi. You can check out more from the East Coast music scene at www.veermag.com and http://www.hardcorenorfolk.com. We encourage all local bands to share their photos and gig information with e Real Story and we will publish the information. Local music is important and real to the community, so let's get the information out there for the fans! MoJo
March 14, 2012
Courtesy Photo
David Orr
Look for The Real Story in all of the SOCO stores beginning this week!
Courtesy Photo
Courtesy Photo
Donnie Kepley
Bob Gurske, R.I.P July 4, 2011
10
ENTERTAINMENT
Project X Wastes Potential with Sexism, Idiocy

Project X seems mysterious, given its title, but the film is about teens drinking, doing drugs, having sex and being degenerates, in general. What separates Project X from other teen movies is its presentation. e movie is filmed by a character using a camera a technique popularized by e Blair Witch Project and used in many recent horror movies, including Cloverfield and Paranormal Activity. Its not exactly novel for a teen comedy to copy horror movies, and it wouldve been a mistake for Project X to pass o its absurdities as real, with its camerawork. But director Nima Nourizadeh doesnt fall into that trap. Project X cleverly resembles a horror movie during its hilarious and exciting climax. In doing so, the film pokes fun at the mockumentary style that has plagued the horror genre, while pointing out that teens can be monsters when it comes to having a good time.
Oliver Cooper and Thomas Mann live it up too much in Project X.
Courtesy Photo
this. While it is true the male characters of Project X are not moral people, one must keep in mind theyre teenagers. It wouldve been dishonest to leave out the sexism and homophobia, which are, whether we like it or not, prevalent in the culture of male teens. And at least the main character in Project X, played by omas Mann, somewhat comes to terms with his own sexism. But, one can only defend Project X so much. Its female characters are essentially meat. e film is exploitative, with numerous shots of nude female breasts. e sexism is at its worst, and most preposterous, when the main female character, played by Kirby Bliss Blanton, lets Mann o the hook for exploiting her sexuality and friendship. e film portrays Blanton as a self-respecting girl until the resoluSee PRoJECT X Pg. 17
March 14, 2012
One cannot deny the rampant sexism and homophobia displayed by the
male characters of Project X. In fact, the film has been widely criticized for
Check out our website @realstorypublishing.com or facebook.com/rspublishing for additional articles and information!
Reforming Education: Let Money Follow Students

Joel Klein, the education columnist for the Washington Post, was Chancellor of the New York City Department of Education. His articles are always insightful, with no particular political agenda. In a March 2, 2012 article, he criticizes the Presidential candidates for ignoring education on the stump. ey raise the issue, he comments, but they oer no real solutions. In this thoughtful article, Klein oers three solutions, and I will comment on each of them. 1. Accelerate common standards. Most of our industrial competitors have rigorous national standards in education. e United States has a patchwork of largely inadequate standards, whose expectations for student learning vary wildly, depending on whether children live in Albany or Albuquerque. e accountability regime set up by No Child Le Behind likewise le the design of standards to the states. e result has been what many consider a race to the bottom, as states eased requirements to create the illusion of progress. Klein recites the common joke in the educational community concerning the inability of Congress to pass a law which sets national standards - the Right hates national and the Le hates standards. is, of course, is not a joke at all, but is at the heart of the argument. Liberals feel that standards will somehow shackle teachers and students both, focusing on narrow, artificial performance goals that ignore the many intelligences of students (artistic, musical, expression or excellence in sports), dismantle the cooperative and collaborative learning environments which restrict natural rates of learning, and limit teachers by restricting their own creativity. Conservatives hate the idea of any consolidation of anything at the federal level, assuming that once it gets mired in Washington bureaucracy, it will be hopelessly lost. e states are closer to the people the individuals on whom the final responsibility for education rests. Although Klein recommends national standards, given the ideological basis for the disagreement, they are unlikely to be enacted. is divided and extremely partisan Congress appears unwilling to look at successes elsewhere, learn from experience, and apply the best fix for America. Compromises do not seem realistic, either. e No Child Le Behind Act, federal in design, le standards up to the states; and the result, as Klein states above, is a hodge-podge of inefficient and unaccountable programs. 2. Professionalize teaching. ere is almost universal consensus that eective teaching is the most powerful way to improve student performance. But, were not serious, as a nation, about making teaching an attractive career. Finland, Singapore and South Korea recruit 100 percent of their teachers from the top third of high school and college students. eir teachers train in prestigious institutions that accept only one of every seven or eight applicants. By contrast, only 23 percent of new U.S. teachers come from the top third (14 percent for high-poverty schools). Our teachers are trained mostly in open-enrollment institutions seen as second-rate; poor pay and working conditions comlows children, not schools. Childpel the best to leave the classroom centered funding would give enwithin a few years. A trade union trepreneurial educators the ability mentality makes it hard to reward to re-imagine how teachers and excellence and promote accountstudents do their work, and to ability. compete to serve families with Once again, this is a great idea, but breakthrough pedagogical tools it is unlikely to be implemented. Not that creatively tap new learning only does the trade union mentality to technologies. which Klein refers make it hard for school districts to insist upon teacher Now, this is an idea that can work. accountability, the unions and their Give parents free choice, through a school board patrons have, for too voucher system that allows them to long, looked on teaching positions as choose whatever school they want. It political appointments. Secondly, is really not a fix to the existing public teachers are drawn from the school education system; it is a way out of it. districts in which they live. In cities To the critics who say that this bright like Washington, DC, the public flight will leave a hardened, seriously school student body comes almost ex- dysfunctional core of hard-to-educate clusively from poor, disadvantaged children, I reply that this will streamneighborhoods; and the only teachers line the public school system and give who will even consider working in it real focus. Only a few special bad schools, are from those neigh- schools with special teachers will be borhoods themselves. irdly, supply open, and they will receive high-inand demand the supply of poor tensity focus. Not only that, the teachers exceeds the demand, thus school board will be given expanded forcing down prices. In summary, no responsibility to work with the local amount of federal mandates is going community engaging religious and to change this. secular leaders to take responsibility for the education of their children and 3. Promote choice and innovato reform the social environment in tion. Whether a public school which they live a good balance beperforms well or badly, it basically tween public investment and individkeeps students in that neighborual responsibility; a good balance hood, because most families have between Le and Right. no other choice. is monopoly leaves no incentive to innovate to improve performance and eRon Parlato ciency inducements as vital to rparlato@realstorypublishing.com public schools as they are elsewhere. Families with more means Ron Parlato is a writer can choose private schools, can living in Washington, DC. move to another town or can othHe has close ties with erwise navigate the system. ose Columbus which he visits families who are least powerful, frequently. His writings on however, remain trapped. To supliterature, politics and culture, port choice and innovation, we travel, and cooking can be found on his own blog, need to provide real funding equncleguidosfacts.com. uity and ensure that money fol-
11
EDUCATION
March 14, 2012
Whats better than a weekly picture of Porkchop? Two!!!
Porkchop brown-bagging it at work. This little pigaroo was tickled almost as much by the gift bag as the recipient of the gifts.
14
CULTURALLY SPEAKING
Dr. Seuss, Mother Goose and Friends Visit Students at Fairview Elementary School
Tunes, Tunes, and More Tunes!

Do you enjoy listening to live music? Would you like to be among the first people in the area to experience some local, undiscovered talent? If the answer to either (or both) of the above questions is yes, then you should visit Caf Aromas (404 Main Street | Columbus) for one of their monthly open mic nights, which are entitled Words & Music: An Evening of Spoken Words and Songs. ese events, which are sponsored by Caf Aromas and e Real Story, usually oer an even mix of poetry/spoken word and songs. However, this months incarnation, which was held on Friday, March 9th, consisted entirely of songs and music. e appreciative crowd of over thirty culture lovers didnt seem to mind this fact, as they applauded each performer vigorously and with enthusiasm. Kicking o the nights songfest were local fixtures e Saint & the Priest. is talented duo didnt disappoint, either. Next up, was local singer/actor/allaround great guy Shane Tubbs, who stopped by on his way to an out-oftown getaway with his wife, and regaled the audience with a few numbers. e low-key, but very talented Alex Hinton was next to take the stage. Alex is a fan favorite at Caf Aromas, and he certainly showed why, on this Friday evening. Closing out the evening, the duo of Bryan Roberts and Hayden Allen, who comprise part of the band Atomic Toast, mesmerized the crowd with their soulful renditions. ey incorporate Mississippi themes, as well as references to Greek mythology, into their original lyrics. e next installment of this verypopular series, which is coordinated by Random Acts of Culture, will be held on Friday, April 13th, at 7pm. Attention, Artists: Random Acts of Culture, which presents the Art in Columbus series of monthly art exhibits, in partnership with Renee Reedy Studio, is accepting submissions for both Emergence (deadline 3.21.12) and Postcards to Columbus (deadline 4.23.12). Details on how to enter these, or any of their other shows, can be found by visiting www.randomactsofculture.biz.
March 14, 2012
Dr. Seuss and Mother Goose entertain students at Fairview Elementary School.
Go out and get your culture on!
A group of Fairview Elementary students blow out candles on Dr. Suess birthday.
Mother Goose, Glenn Lautzenheiser, Dr. Martha Liddell, and Dr. Suess.
Protect Yourself from Violent Crime

A list of tips for adults, on staying safe
From the National Crime Prevention Council
Dont walk or jog early in the morning or late at night, when the streets are deserted. When out at night, try to have a friend walk with you. Carry only the money youll need on a particular day. Dont display your cash or any other inviting targets, such as pagers, cell phones, hand-held electronic games, or expensive jewelry and clothing. If you think someone is following you, switch directions or cross the street. If the person continues to follow you, move quickly toward an open store or restaurant or a lit house. Dont be afraid to yell for help. Try to park in well-lit areas, with good visibility and close to walkways, stores, and people. Make sure you have your key out, as you approach your door. Always lock your car, even if its in your own driveway; never leave your motor running. Do everything you can to keep a stranger from getting into your car or to keep a stranger from forcing you into his or her car. If a dating partner has abused you, do not meet him or her alone. Do not let him or her in your home or car, when you are alone. If you are a battered spouse, call the police or sheri immediately. Assault is a crime, whether committed by a stranger or your spouse or any other family member. If you believe that you and your children are in danger, call a crisis hotline or a health center (the police can also make a referral) and leave immediately. If someone tries to rob you, give up your property - dont give up your life. If you are robbed or assaulted, report the crime to the police. Try to describe the attacker accurately. Your actions can help prevent someone else from becoming a victim.
Relay for Life Committee Meeting
15
COMMUNITY
March 14, 2012

Front row: Mott Ellis, Jane Lee, Gail Cooke, Jeanette Norman, Mevela Andrews, and Alice Pounders. Back row: Wayne Ellis, Angel Whittington, Lenny Ring, Amanda Mordecai, Pam Brownlee, Donna Walker, Bessie Tate, Mary Belinda Duckworth, Becky Brown, Jason Brown, and Mary Moore. Not pictured: Eddie Chapman, Emily Johnson Wheeler, Jennifer Barnett Chapman, Michelle Woods, Teresa McGregor, Scott McGregor, Tina Perry, and Yvonne Barron
On Monday, March 5th, Relay for Life Committee members met at Baptist Memorial Hospital Outpatient Pavilion to discuss these topics: teambuilding, sponsorship, entertainment, survivors, team activities, mission delivery, luminaries, publicity, gate decorations, on-line donations and the web site. I spoke to Mott Ellis, Lowndes County Team Development Chair. She explained to me that this years event will be held on April 27, 2012 at the Columbus High School Soccer Field, and will run from 6pm-6am. She also hopes to have 55+ teams by
then, and their goal is to raise $150,000. Every team member who raises 100 dollars will receive a Relay for life Tshirt. ey also earn a personal badge, as well as the satisfaction of knowing they have helped fight the battle against Cancer. If you would like to register a team or for more information, contact Mott Ellis @ 662- 574-1104.
Christy Tracey
ctracey@realstorypublishing.com Christy is a wife and mother of four children and wants to capture Columbus one photo at a time.
Call Cindy Today!
Your Ad Could Go Here! 574-3893
16
POLITICS
Return of the Living Fetus

Saturday began with an outlook not unlike one of a blank slate. I rose, that day, with pure intentions to let the day write itself upon my blackboard. I mounted my digital steed, the Internet, early for some quick headlines before trading my thirst for knowledge for my poisonous rifle and mystical body armor to fight the hordes of daemon on the borders between Hell and Earth with some video games. oroughly satisfied, I wiped the sweat from my heroic brow and followed the grumble of my stomach, which was quite empty. (Fighting demons on an empty stomach wears a guy out, let me tell you.) But rather than jump back into the fray aer a few slices of last night's pizza, I decided to check my usual emails and social media, and soon found myself reading the second (or perhaps third) wave of news for the day. en, all of a sudden, like a foul javelin hurled forth by the minions of wretched beasts constructed of fire and brimstone, the stench and sinewy demeanor of National Right to Life (NRL) felled my day. Not too long ago, Mississippi residents joined together against the infamous Prop 26, along with community leaders of both the religious and medical doctrines, and defeated the proposal to declare unborn children as having equal rights as anyone else under the law of the state. As each side battled, an entire nation held its breath in anticipation of Mississippi's conclusion. When the smoke cleared, Prop 26 was defeated, and a nation rejoiced. But today, the corpse of Prop 26 has been re-animated, taking a page from our federal adversaries and constructing a three-headed beast from the corpse of the old proposal in the form of three bills: House Concurrent Resolution 61, House Bill 857, and State Concurrent Resolution 555. First, House Concurrent Resolution 61 (HC 61), authored by Andy Gipson, seeks to "provide that the word 'person' applies to all human beings from conception to natural death". Sound familiar? As argued previously, this change would aect a multitude of laws and declarations by the State of Mississippi authored in the past, present, and future. By itself, HC 61 also makes the distinction that it does not include instances of "contraception, in vitro fertilization, or other methods of reproduction, medical treatment intended to preserve life, or miscarriage, and for related purposes." As one can see, the language of this bill becomes somewhat vague. But it doesn't stop there. e second portion of the Personhood masquerade is a bill known as Senate Concurrent Resolution 555 (SC 555). Introduced by Joey Filligane, SC 555 would make the policy of Mississippi "to protect every unborn child from conception to birth, to the extent permitted by the federal constitution." Pairing this with a third bill, brought to the table by Alex Monsour, called e Pain-Capable Unborn Child Act, results in a web that seeks to outlaw abortion regardless of any ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court (See Roe vs. Wade) and the U.S. Constitution (i.e. the 14th Amendment). To be fair, SC 555 does allow abortion if the mother's life is in jeopardy, but House Bill 857 removes the ability of an instance happening aer 20 weeks. According to several sources, however, Filligane stated that he doesn't expect SC 555 to pass, and that he wrote the bill as a place-holder for anyone who wanted to push it through. In January, National Right To Life (NRL) announced its agenda for 2012. "It should not be a surprise to anyone that the top priority for National Right To Life's Political Action Committee, this year, is defeating Barack Obama and electing a Pro-Life President" says NRL President, Carol Tobias. Versions of Mississippi's House Bill 857 have already been introduced and enacted in several states, including Nebraska, Oklahoma, District of Columbia, New Hampshire, Virginia, Florida, Alabama, Idaho, and Kansas. In some cases, there are no dierences between the text of the legislation and Mississippi's own House Bill 857. NRL Legislative Director, Douglas Johnson, notes the advances in medical science, citing improvements in ultrasound technology, but fails to distinguish the relationship between vaginal ultrasound and whether or not the unborn feel pain. But the NRL wastes no time in taking the oensive against the opposition, stating "there has been no serious legal challenge mounted to any of these laws" and claiming [pro-abortionists] are the ones who insist that society must remain locked in the Dark Ages of ignorance regarding the capacities of unborn children." e first step to overturning Roe v. Wade is to redefine common understanding. HC 61 redefines what a person is to be. House Bill 857 has a lengthy list of items that it redefines or otherwise specifies with particular redefinition. e second step to overturning Roe V. Wade is to abuse and/or create law and legislation in an attempt to destroy due process or distort its function and appearance. In 1973, e United States Supreme Court ruled that there exists a "right to privacy under the due process clause in the Fourteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution [extending] to a woman's decision to have an abortion." But the NRL does little, if anything, to address the relationship between the extension of the right to privacy of mothers in the 14th Amendment and whether or not unborn children feel pain. House Bill 857 attempts to provide the method by which a pregnant woman is to alert her doctor who then is to report the age of her fertilized, unborn child to the State Department of Health. is directly defies the 14th Amendment as shown by Roe V. Wade. e third step in overturning Roe V. Wade is subversion. Prop 26 was highly publicized. ese three bills? Not so much. While Prop 26 was nationally televised, the same sort of fervor of the NRL's movement hasn't received the same sort of attention. ere seems to be a really hard push in state and federal government to restrict or remove the rights of women to make a choice about their own bodies. We can't really take this with the expectations that one law is going to outlaw or repeal the right to vote or choose by women. Rather, we must take these things in the context of over-regulation to ensure that those who violate oppressive laws become felons. Felons cannot vote, and once you are a felon, then you are a felon for life. A womans voice is just as powerful as any man's voice, and while Barack Obama may not be pro-life, it does not mean that electing a President that is pro-life is the best choice for everyone to address all the concerns of a nation. You must make that sort of decision based upon what is important for you, and not what you believe is important for others. at's fascism. We certainly aren't ever going to have a President we agree with on every point of his or her platform. at is a fairy tale. Now, whether you agree or disagree, go out there and let these men, these legislators, know how you feel rather than how you think other people should feel or behave.
Mississippi Branch Launches HERoES Campaign

Celebrating March as National Red Cross Month, the American Red Cross of Mississippi is launching a statewide HEROES campaign. For almost 130 years, volunteers with your local Red Cross Chapter have been heroes to people throughout Northeast Mississippi communities, lending aid during times of disaster, supporting military families and training citizens in lifesaving CPR and first aid skills. Heroes for the American Red Cross is a grassroots campaign where local businesspeople, school groups, church groups, civic clubs and individuals pledge to raise $1,000 for their local Red Cross chapter. is year, the Northeast Mississippi Chapter hopes to raise $50,000 during this campaign, to support Red Cross services, including disaster relief, assistance for fire victims, emergency military communications, first aid and CPR training, and disaster preparedness information for our community. All money raised will support your neighbors in Mississippi. is campaign is open to all for involvement, and those who are interested should contact their local Red Cross Oce at: Tupelo: 662-842-6101 Columbus: 662-328-5710 West Point: 662-494-9599 Starkville: 662-323-4621 Tishomingo: 662-438-7061 New Albany: 662-534-5023
March 14, 2012
Invino Veritas
iveritas@realstorypublishing.com Attempting to make sense of his universe, Invino Veritas bubbles outward from the chaos, sometimes submitting to its infinite whirl, and other times raging against its disregard for its own elements. His writings incorporate multiple styles and energies which can be found on his own blog of random things at http://musingsfortheinsane.blogspot.com/
Four Columbus Citizens Honored by Mississippi Historical Society

Mississippi School for Math and Science teacher Charles M. Yarborough is this years winner of the Mississippi Historical Societys award for Outstanding History Teacher. Yarborough received the John K. Bettersworth Award on March 3, at the Mississippi University for Women in Columbus, during the societys annual meeting. e prize carries a $300 cash award and a years membership in the Mississippi Historical Society. For over seventeen years, Yarborough has taught U.S. history, American government, and economics. He is the director of the award-winning "Tales from the Crypt" research/performance project, and develops lesson plans and workshops for teachers. He has also presented local and state history programs for civic organizations and the general public, across Mississippi. "I'm particularly pleased to be recognized by the Mississippi Historical Society, said Yarborough. is is a group of people who work for a better future for our state, by promoting the understanding of our past. I can't think of a group I would more like to be associated with." e Mississippi Historical Society also honored three citizens of Columbus with Awards of Merit. e awards were presented to: Samuel H. Kaye, for
17
AWARDS
March 14, 2012

Mona Vance, Columbus Lowndes Public Library, Award of Merit; Bridget Smith Pieschel, Mississippi University for Women, Award of Merit; Samuel H. Kaye, Columbus and Charles M. Yarborough, Mississippi School for Math and Science.
MHS Bettersworth award committee chair Tom Watts (L) and Charles M. Yarborough.
his work in preserving the history of Columbus and Lowndes County; Bridget Smith Pieschel, for her work with the Center for Women's Research and Public Policy and the Welty Writers Symposium and in documenting the history of the Mississippi University for Women; and Mona Vance, for her work with the archival and history programs of the Columbus-Lowndes Public Library. e Mississippi Historical Society, founded in 1858, encourages outstanding work in interpreting, teach-
ing, and preserving Mississippi History. e society is a non-profit membership organization that works closely with the Mississippi Department of Archives and History. e society also publishes the online publication Mississippi History Now. It provides annual grants to support programs of the Junior Historical Society and publishes books, maps, and other materials aimed toward the education of the general public. Membership is open to anyone; benefits include receiving the quarterly Journal of Missis-
sippi History and the quarterly Mississippi History Newsletter. For information on becoming a member, call 601-576-6849 or visit the MHS Web www.mdah.state.ms.us site, /admin/mhistsoc.html.
PRoJECT Xcont. from pg. 10

stunned by Manns immaturity and asks him how many people attended the party. Mann answers, and MacKenzie is impressed by the number, as Mann says it was awesome. MacKenzie then delivers the best line of Project X : Well, youre still f***ed, omas. If Project X had ended there, it wouldve been funny and fitting. Instead, the film ends on a positive note rible people. Project X is better than for Mann, and features obligatory and e Hangover, but thats a mighty low stupid Where are they now? seg- standard for entertainment. ments for the male characters. Todd Phillips produced Project X , so Jed Pressgrove it doesnt surprise me that the film jpressgrove@realstorypublishing.com shirks responsibility and comedic timing. Phillips was the director of e Jed Pressgrove is a technical writer and masters Hangover, a terrible movie about ter- student in sociology at Mississippi State University.
tion. Its even more insulting that Nourizadeh treats this moment as sweet, rather than idiotic. Project X does approach sanity and maturity when Mann must confront his dad, played by Peter MacKenzie, about the destruction he and his friends have caused to his home, the setting of the party. MacKenzie is
18
CONSUMER CORNER
by Mo & No-Mo
If you have a local business or establishment you would like us to consider for review, please e-mail us at: consumercorner@realstorypublishing.com. You will get our honest opinion of the business, their personal customer service, and the services oered. We strive for fair, unbiased reporting, so we hope to hear from you.
Observation:
On March 1st, we were warned of the severe weather headed our way. As a matter of fact, we had warnings for several days in advance of the storm. Gratefully, the storm did not come as far south as was first expected, so our weather was not as bad as had been predicted. With all of this advance notice, you would think the authorities would have a well-thought-out plan to handle any and all possibilities. It seems the local authorities have not given any thought to the Bypass o-ramp, at Hwy. 50. On this night, when the lights were out, it seems cars were exiting the bypass in total darkness, skidding and sliding, because there were no lights and no officers at the intersection to assist; all the while there was a squad car, blue lights flashing, posted at the Lehmberg Road-Hwy 50 intersection, where lights from the Nissan parking lot helped in visibility. Maybe the people that plan for these emergencies need to ride around in the dark some nights, to see where emergency help is needed.
As stated last week, we have been getting a lot of phone calls and e-mails about local establishments, and we have saved each and every one of them. We are still working on using all of these comments in one giant Consumer Report; however, aer receiving so many complaints about one particular business, we felt it imperative that we share this information with our readers. I have picked two of the most recent complaints, one a call and one an email, with pictures included. We feel that what these customers have to say kind of says it all, so we really don't need to add much, only the name and location of the business. I will tell you it is a local pizza shop - the name and location will be provided at the end of the story. e first complaint came via a phone call: While sitting outside, waiting for my order to be prepared, it disturbed me to see a young male employee with notso-short curly, blonde hair shaking his head, laughing and having a good time. e fact that there was no hair net or cap to contain any loose hairs bothered me. Before my concern over the loose hair diminished, I noticed two young employees standing close to the cash register, playing keep away with dollar bills. en, without slowing down to wash their hands or wipe their hands o, one goes and starts making pizzas, while the other young man moves to the back of the pizza parlor and starts cutting and boxing up pizzas that come out of the oven. Nasty just plain nasty!!! Our second complaint arrived by email, with pictures included. On Tuesday, March 6th, I decided to treat my husband, and surprise him with pizza for supper. I called Papa John's to order our pizza at 5:37 P.M. It was clear from the very start that the young woman that answered the phone wanted to be anywhere but there. Aer struggling to give my order, in between her conversations with others around her, and being very clear about the pizza being extra-extra light on the sauce, we hung up. (My husband is diabetic and the sauce is what drives his sugar up, so ordering extra-extra light on
March 14, 2012
Papa Johns Pizza located on Hwy. 45 North.
the sauce allows him to have pizza as a treat, from time to time.) My order consisted of one medium meat lover's pizza and one personal pan pizza with mushrooms, onion and black olives. Both pizzas were supposed to be extraextra light on the sauce.) One hour later, I call to find out what the delay is in my order being delivered, and was told it was on the way. Twenty (20) minutes later, the pizza arrives barely warm. When the young man walked up with the pizza, I asked him why it had taken so long and he was almost rude stating he had six stops to make before he made my run. No apology, no oer of a discount nothing, but attitude. I paid my $27 for these two rather small pizzas, and went in the house. At no time should it take one- hour-and-
twenty-minutes to receive a pizza order! e meat lover's pizza had maybe five slices of pepperoni, and we never did find any of the other meats. e sauce was slopped on and pouring out the sides. e personal pan pizza was a small pizza, not personal pan size; there were no onions or black olives and the sauce was thick under the cheese. Both pizzas were soggy and stuck to the box. My husband attempted to eat his pizza, but my small pizza was not edible and went to the garbage. I am enclosing pictures of the pizzas, so you can see how they looked. Needless to say, we won't be doing business with this company, again. e name of this business is Papa John's Pizza on Hwy, 45 N., across the street from Kmart. We want to thank these two contributors for helping us to keep our local restaurants ho-nest and clean. Maybe when the managers read this, they will start taking a little pride in their places of business and realize that customers and how they are treated determine whether they have a job or not.
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Dont Injure Your Back Jumping Through Hoops

and then have to sit for their national boards. en, they must be licensed by the MS State Board of Medical Licensure - like doctors - and, like doctors, carry malpractice insurance. It seems odd that, aer all that, youd need to have a doctor's referral for acupuncture. Beyond the fact that acupuncturists have extensive education (two years of that education is in Western Medicine), the law takes away a patient's right to choose the type of care they want to receive. I don't need to go to my doctor to see a massage therapist or chiropractor. Not only that, many people who want acupuncture (like me) have a nurse practitioner as their primary care provider. en, there's the fact that it's a hardship on patients. Now, since my nurse practitioner can't refer me, I have to go establish care with a doctor. at's another $100 or so out of my pocket, since I don't have insurance (and I know there are many others like me in Mississippi), not to mention the time it will take out of my schedule and that I won't even know if that doctor will be willing to write me a referral. en, I have to spend even more money establishing care with my local acupuncturist (in Columbus, we're lucky enough to have an acupuncturist who charges really low rates - partly to compensate for all this, she says). And then, there's the business side. It takes an acupuncturist a lot of time to fax referral requests, usually repeatedly, so that a patient can be seen. Oen, it can take up to five dierent attempts just to get a referral signed while the poor patient waits to be seen. According to the eight acupuncturists in the state of Mississippi, over 50% of patients give up when they cant get a referral, and business is thus lost for the small business owner. at's not good for the community. As one doctor (who supports acupuncture) said, 100% of patient complaints about acupuncture are related to the fact that they have to get a referral. Wow. He also added that 100% of doctors' complaints about acupuncture are that they had to write the referral.seems like a good case of the few not representing the many. ere is also the fact that, since the doctor has to be Mississippi licensed, it stops money coming into our state from surrounding states, since most people in Alabama and Tennessee who are seeking acupuncturists - don't have Mississippi-licensed doctors. I dont think that is good business for our communities or our state. One last thing: According to the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine, acupuncturists have a malpractice track record that is leagues above that of physicians, proportionally. But, they still have to make sure it's "safe" enough for us plebeians. (By the way, acupuncturists can actually be primary care providers in some states.) If I want a tattoo, why dont I have to get a referral for that? ey also use needles. I know, firsthand, many people who have actually le their doctors, aer they refused to refer them for acupuncture. Perhaps more of that has to happen before the legislators will be willing to listen to the general population, as opposed to the MS Medical Association (whose whispers can be very loud.). is year, the Mississippi Oriental Medicine Association (MOMA) tried to get the law amended, to remove the referral clause. Unfortunately, the head of the Public Health Committee (in the MS House) had a keen ear to the MSMA, which did not want to budge an inch. MOMA even oered a compromise, wherein the referral clause would remain, but be expanded to include outof-state physicians and MDs more than 60 miles away - to help with the business side and make it easier for patients to get care. MSMAs response was that this law was too young to change and that not enough people were being aected by it to warrant that. See HooPS Pg. 20
19
MEDICAL
March 14, 2012
Im sorry, but your doctor rejected your referral request for acupuncture. I know its taken two weeks, and your back is hurting so bad. Do you have another doctor we can call? Unfortunately, this is a common conversation that happens between potential acupuncture patients and their soon-to-(hopefully)-be acupuncturists in Mississippi. Acupuncture, by a licensed acupuncturist, became legal in Mississippi in 2009, with the caveat that you must have a referral from your doctor. Anywhere else in the country, you can walk through the doors of any acupuncturists clinic and get treated immediately. But, in Mississippi, the only state with such a requirement, seeing an acupuncturist for the first time is a hassle for the patient, the acupuncturist, and, ultimately, the doctor, too. Even more restrictive, it has to be a doctor, not a nurse practitioner or chiropractor - and that doctor must be licensed in Mississippi and practice within 60 miles of the acupuncturist. Did you know that a licensed acupuncturist has a four-year master's level degree in acupuncture? at's eight years of school, all told, since you have to have an undergraduate degree to get a master's degree. On top of that, they have to do thousands of clinical hours before they graduate,
Ladies Night Out at Fashion Barn
Christine Petty, JoAnna Lanier, and Delinda Boler attend ladies night Monday, March 8 at Fashion Barn.
20
POLITICAL
Is Democracy the Best System?

As reported in the Washington Post (Simon Denyer, March 4, 2012), India is challenging one of our basic assumptions that democracy, in the words of Winston Churchill is the worst form of government except for all the others; and we have to wonder at the successes of China, which has focused on economic development, and where the right to economic wellbeing and social cohesion is more fundamental than civil liberties. We also wonder at Russia, where Russians have not only tolerated Putins arrogation of power and abuses of democratic principles, but have elected him overwhelmingly for another term, because he represents stability. Perhaps Russias long Tsarist history and the dictatorships of the Soviet Union are the reasons; but perhaps Russians have understood that one-size-democracy does not fit all. At times, democracy seems like Indias greatest handicap. In the race to catch up with China, to unleash Indias economic and entrepreneurial potential, Indians are increasingly worrying about the costs of democracy, or indeed whether the country simply has too much of it to function eectively. As economic growth slowed last year and corruption scandals mounted; as crucial legislation stalled in a fractious Parliament, a deep sense of political malaise settled over Indias middle class, said a member of Parliament. ere is a widespread belief that the kind of democratic system in which we operate is failing us. In a recent survey of 25-to-50year-olds from the urban middle class, a third of respondents said India should be run by a strong leader who does not have to contest elections, and a quarter opted for leadership by experts and professionals not answerable to political leaders. e problem, however, is not with democracy, but the application of democracy. In India, the lack of a strong central government with authoritarian powers has allowed corruption to flourish; and the democratic institutions which might be influential in bringing it to light and stopping it are weak and inecient: It is not hard to find fault with Indias imperfect democracy. e explosion in the number of political parties based on caste and community allegiances, the steady rise in the number of lawmakers facing criminal charges, and the corrupting role of undeclared money in campaign finance are all significant and growing problems. e problem goes deeper. A former Secretary of the Bangladesh Government confided to me that the one way to establish a truly democratic society was to establish an independent judiciary. e problem, he said, was not with government that has always behaved badly, diverted public funds, and enriched itself with taxpayer resources; it was with the judicial system. Judges are bought o and there is real public access to the courts. [In India] as hundreds of thousands of protesters thronged the streets demanding action against corruption, as tens of millions of children suered some of the worst malnutrition rates in the world, as growth stuttered and investors fled the country, Parliament seemed to function on a dierent planet. is public outcry and those in Russia against Putins rule are encouraging. However, in the case of India, the institutions of democracy are so sclerotic that change cannot happen quickly. In Russia, these institutions are too new to reform. ey have just reformed from Communism to the current form of democracy. tributed to the problem, rather than In Bangladesh, there are two helped it. Reforms are still needed in major parties, with smaller parties the press, and in the bureaucracy. in coalition. When one party wins an election, the opposing ere is no going back for India, nor party walks out of Parliament, should there be. Indias economic syscharging fraud and abuse; an act tem, for all the chaos surrounding it, of unenlightened opposition that is more flexible and more innovative neuters Parliament. e than that of the centrally planned sysBangladeshi democratic system tem of China. India is also in a better has not yet matured to the point position demographically, since that it can eectively represent Chinas one-child policy is creating an and govern. older population, with fewer younger Chaos was the norm in [the Indian] workers to support them and conParliament, legislation the exception, tribute to economic progress. as the body sat for just 73 days, with To take advantage of these positive 30 percent of its time lost to disrup- factors, India needs to reform its demtions or adjournments. Other bills ocratic system. Simple adjustments in critical to the countrys progress on the bureaucracy such as liberalizing taxation, land reform, pension funds import and tax policies are not and judicial standards were among enough. Structural reform is necesdozens pending. sary, and India has shown that it can In the early 70s there were monitors be flexible and change. In the Bihar in the visitor galleries of Parliament, Famine of the mid-60s, India despite who enforced a No Laughing rule, its infamous bureaucracy - quickly since the proceedings below were so and eciently mounted a successful outrageous. e situation, I presume response and saved thousands of lives. from this article, has not changed all In the late 90s, aer decades of laborthat much. ing under Soviet-style central planning and socialist economic policies, [A political analyst] blames ParIndia liberalized its economy, and liaments dysfunction on a very Indias economic progress has been vicious and bitter partisanship nothing less than stunning. between the countrys two main parties, whose relationship, he arIndia will most certainly figure out a gues, is far worse than relations way to reform its electoral system, between Democrats and Republistreamline bureaucracy, activate civil cans in the United States. society, and perfect democratic instiAny modern democracy critically tutions, but according to the old Independs on a relationship of trust dian saying, Takes time. between government and opposition, [the analyst] said. e relationship of trust has completely Ron Parlato broken down, and that is deeply rparlato@realstorypublishing.com disturbing for the future of Indian democracy. Ron Parlato is a writer Denyer concludes that the problem living in Washington, DC. is not with democracy, but in the inHe has close ties with stitutions of the democratic system. Columbus which he visits Elective bodies need reform. e jufrequently. His writings on dicial system needs reform. Civil so- literature, politics and culture, ciety still needs to organize in larger travel, and cooking can be groups than the narrow caste-and refound on his own blog, uncleguidosfacts.com. ligion-based ones that have con-
RSPUBLISHING.COM
March 14, 2012
HooPS cont. from pg. 19

I guess a few people's pain will only be important to the Medical Association when it's shared by another 100,000 people. ats not my idea of
truly looking out for the well-being of all citizens. Fortunately, there are doctors out there (thank you!) who know about the benefits of acupuncture and dont hesitate to refer their patients. ere is plenty of research to back up the benefits of acupuncture. If youre
one of those people who question whether acupuncture is a mind game - well, it works on animals. And if you arent sure how it works, but it works, just let it do its job. I dont know about you, but Im getting tired of jumping through unnecessary hoops, and my
right to choose the kind of care I get for my body is important to me.
Meagan M. ONan
Megan is the award-winning author of Creating Your Heaven on Earth, as well as an avid blogger, poet, and supporter of the underdog. (Meaganonan.org)
SEE SUDOKU PUZZLE ON PG 22
SportsTalk
by Jeremiah Short
21
SPORTS
Derrick Jones Just Wants to Go Get It

ere are players every year that slip through the cracks because they were overlooked. Derrick Jones, a Eupora Eagle standout, is a player that colleges should jump on, before they regret missing on him. He put up solid numbers - 29 catches and 413 yards, along with four touchdowns, for the runoriented Eupora attack. Jones is no slouch on the hardwood, either, averaging 18.5 points per game. I spoke with Jones to discuss his high school career, recruitment, and college future. Jones plays both ways for his football team, but he also plays basketball. He talked about how basketball helps him on the football field.
Courtesy Photo
e two-sport star hasnt been heavily recruited up to now, but he hopes that will change, over the coming months. Im going to try to go to a lot of camps, this summer, to get my name out there, said Jones. I think they will start to look at me, aer I take my A.C.T. in April, Jones said, speculating on when recruitment of him might heat up. Jones is the type of wide receiver that can go get the ball, but he feels that he still needs to improve.
I thought about it. Hopefully, there are some oers, there. I really dont know which one I want to play in college, said Jones, speaking on playing basketball at the college level. I believe I like football just a little bit more. Derrick Jones, whether he chooses football or basketball, could be a great find for any college program. ey may need to jump on him before he has a big senior season; his options may be numerous at that point.
March 14, 2012
RSPUBLISHING.COM
Derrick Jones
We run a lot. When I play on defense, it helps me stay low. It helps a lot, said Jones.
[I need to] just go and get it [the Jeremiah Short jshort@realstorypublishing.com ball]. Coach tells me, sometimes that I tend to let it come down to me. So, I should just go up and get it. Jeremiah Short covers Mississippi State University e versatile 62, 185-pound wide football and basketball. receiver has thought about also play- Follow him on Twitter, @JeremiahShort26; or join ing basketball at the next level. his Facebook blog, Real Story Sports: J.Shorts Blog.
Mississippi State Spring Practice Preview: Defense

Key Spring Defensive Battles ere are several positions that will be up for grabs during Spring Practice. Here is a quick breakdown of the positions up for grabs and the players competing for the spots. I will have a full breakdown of the position battles on e Real Story website www.realstorypublishing. com. 2nd Defensive Tackle Candidates Curtis Virges 6 3, 290 (RF) Quay Evans 6 2, 315 (F) P.J. Jones 6 2, 275 (Sph) Devin Jones 6 2, 260 (RSr) Dwayne Cherrington 63, 325 (Sr) ird Linebacker Candidates Chris Hughes 6 1, 225 (J) Ferlando Bohanna 5 11, 225 (RSph) Christian Holmes 6 0, 230 (RSph) Matt Wells 6 2, 215 (RSph) Benardrick McKinney 6 4, 240 (RF)
Chris Wilson (Key: F Freshman; RF Redshirt Freshman; Sph Sophomore; RSph Redshirt Sophomore; J Junior; RJ Redshirt Junior; Sr Senior; RSr Redshirt Senior)
Initial Spring Outlook e Mississippi State defense went through a transition in 2011 - going from the attacking style of Manny Diaz to the read-and-react style of Chris Wilson. ere were some growing pains because of inexperience at certain positions; the defense eventually came together, as the year progressed. e Bulldogs did lose some key defensive pieces: Fletcher Cox, Charles Mitchell, and Brandon Wilson. is spring, Wilson will try to replace those players and further acclimate the defense to the read-and-react scheme.
Final Spring Outlook e Bulldog defense certainly has several questions to answer, heading into Spring Practice. e defense should answer those questions during Spring Practice - unlike the oense, which will have several unanswered questions until the season starts.
Courtesy Photo
Jeremiah Short
jshort@realstorypublishing.com
Five Burning Pre-Spring Questions
Boundary Cornerback Candidates Corey Broomfield 510 180 (RSr) Darius Slay 61 188 (Sr) 2nd Safety Candidates Kendrick Market 5 10, 185 (RF) Jay Hughes 5 11, 185 (RSph) Dee Arrington 6 1, 205 (Sph) Zack Jackson 6 1, 203 (RF)
Jeremiah Short covers Mississippi State University football and basketball. Follow him on Twitter, @JeremiahShort26; or join his Facebook blog, Real Story Sports: J.Shorts Blog.
1. Will Denico Autry be the Real Deal? 2. Who will replace Fletcher Cox? 3. Who will win the third Linebacker job? 4. Can Darius Slay supplant Corey Broomfield? 5. Who replaces Charles Mitchell?
ANSWERS FROM THE MARCH 7, 2012 CROSSWORD PUZZLE
22
SPORTS & COMMUNITY
Smith Prepares for Transition

yards and thrown 55 touchdowns during his prep career. Since he is only 59 and 170 pounds, he likely will have to transition to another position at the college level. I caught up with Smith to discuss that transition, recruiting, and his high school career. Smith has certainly had a stellar high school career with his oensive numbers. So far, my high school career has been going well. I have been playing ever since the ninth grade. I got an early start. I got better every year, with practice. Ive been putting up bigger numbers every year. Im enjoying myself doing what I like to do, said Smith, on his high school career. He has had a great high school career as a quarterback, but the talented athlete will have to switch positions at the college level. Smith discussed what he is doing to prepare to move to another position in college. Im preparing myself by practicing at dierent positions, like cornerback and slot receiver. I dont really want to be a quarterback, at the next level, said Smith. Smith has drawn interest from four schools: Mississippi State, Missouri, Ole Miss, and Tennessee. He says Mississippi State is recruiting him the hardest. I believe that Mississippi State is recruiting me pretty hard. I get mail from them almost every day, Smith said. He has developed a good relationship with Mississippi State Oensive Line Coach, John Hevesy. Hes a cool dude and he keeps me updated on everything, and I like that, said Smith, talking about his relationship with Hevesy. Smith feels there are some areas that he needs to work on. I think I need to get better on my hitting and my coverage, said Smith. Smith is preparing for the college level, but he wants to have a monster senior season. My senior season, I cant go for anything less than a championship. I want to take it all the way, this year. I want to have 3,500 passing yards, Smith said. Lavontis Smith is a name that everyone must keep an eye on during the 2013 recruiting year. He is a kid with the right mindset and could end up being a diamond in the rough. Im someone that works real hard. I do whatever it takes to get the job done; I love to practice and get better. [I] just go out there and play my game.
March 14, 2012
Jeremiah Short
jshort@realstorypublishing.com Jeremiah Short covers Mississippi State University football and basketball. Follow him on Twitter, @JeremiahShort26; or join his Facebook blog, Real Story Sports: J.Shorts Blog.
Courtesy Photo
Lavontis Smith
RSPUBLISHING.COM
e West Oktibbeha High School offense has been one of the most prolific in 1-A football, the past few years. e player that has been the driving force in their oensive attack is Lavontis Smith. He has amassed 6,900 passing
Barn Raising
Editors Note: According to Mr. Craddieth, he is grateful for the overwhelming outpouring of support from the community. e barn raising has been put on-hold, temporarily, until the weather improves. We will provide updates, as new information becomes available.
Ladies Night at Saum Chiropractic
Courtesy Photo
View of tractor.
Courtesy Photo
Barn burning.
On Tuesday, March 6, 2011, someone in the area of Sand Road, in Steens, was burning their field. Suddenly, a gust of wind blew an ember on to a barn belonging to Jimmy Craddieth, in the 3500 block of Sand Road. e barn caught fire and was soon engulfed in flames. Mr. Craddieth managed to save his horses, but his tractor and all of his
hay were destroyed. Mr. Craddieth does not have insurance. A Facebook page has been created to organize a barn raising, and to otherwise provide donations of money and supplies. Items are being auctioned on the page, to raise funds, as well. An account has been set up at Cadence Bank. If you would like to help, please visit Facebook Watch Barn Raising.
The ladies of Saum Chiropractic Clinic are getting ready for Ladies Night! The event will be held on Tuesday, March 20, 2012, from 5-8pm. Come get pampered! We will offer massage, stress screenings, jewelry, make-up, hand and foot care, and much more. Goodie bags will be given away and there will be drawings for door prizes. Refreshments will be served. Tickets are $10 and may be purchased, in advance, at Saum Chiropractic (111 Alabama Street | Columbus) or by calling 662-327-6586.
All proceeds to benefit Relay for Life

SEE SUDOKU ANSWERS ON PAGE 20
Christy Tracey
ctracey@realstorypublishing.com Christy is a wife and mother of four children and wants to capture Columbus one photo at a time.
23
THE LOCAL BEAT
March 14, 2012
Bill Taylor, Rissa Lawrence, Bill Lawrence, Rosalea McIntosh, David McIntosh enjoy Catfish in the Alley and listening to Big Joe Shelton.
Sitting: Michelle Heredia, Marie Mitchell, and Elizabeth Haftek Standing: Mandy Hannon, Nancy Carpenter, Kim Bennett, and Carolyn Lowery.
Catfish in the Alley

at the
8 yr old William Isler dances to the music of Big Joe Shelton.
RSPUBLISHING.COM
Farmers Market
The Carpenters sit down to enjoy the music.
Big Joe Shelton playing the harmoncia.
Ben Ferrell, guitar, Big Joe Shelton, vocals, harmonica, Bob Damm, drums, and Drew Diekman, bass.
CROSSWORD
Across
1: Korbut of gymastics 5: Golfers peg 8: Drippin 11: Mend socks 12: Bewitch 13: Enjoy tay 14: Pull 15: Inventor Whitney 16: Brave person 17: Luxurious pelts 19: Rotate 21: Seths mom 22: Stereo components 25: Nurse Barton 28: Jerrys dessert partner 29: Londons Old ___ 30: Bowler and derby 31: Newscaster _____ Koppel 32: Redecorate 33: Sept. follower 34: Soccers Hamm 35: Flat cap
ANSWERS IN OUR NEXT ISSUE
03.14.2012
36: Aspiring drivers learners ______ 38: Not too many 39: Patty, or Selma, to Bart 40: Raised 44: Fictions opposite 46: Mrs. Ram 48: Vulgar 49: Vampires attack 50: Caviar base 51: Eat at eight 52: Federal tax agcy. 53: Help call 54: Break suddenly
Down
1: Bookie term 2: Tomb Raider heroine 3: _____ bag 4: Fisherman 5: Not those 6: Electric fish 7: Was 8: Indefinite time 9: Always, in verse
10: Low card in poker 13: Place for a goatee 18: Acress Gabor 20: Play on words 23: Go by burro 24: Tarta wearer 25: Use an axe 26: Doily material 27: Lures 28: ______ dear! (2 wds.) 31: Giggles 32: Prizes 34: Opposite of max. 35: Spelling competition 37: TV volume option 38: Releases 41: Demolish 42: Poet St. Vincent Millay 43: Still waters run ____ 44: X-Files org. 45: Ditty 47: Play court to
24
CLASSIFIEDS & CIRCULATION
FREE CLASSIFIEDS!! PLACE YOUR FREE CLASSIFIED ONLINE TODAY!

AUToMoTIVE
Three rims w/tires to fit 2001 Dodge Ram 1500 Quad Cab. $50/ea., obo. 889-3732 4 tires with rims - almost new tires, came o Pontiac Sports RAV, $300. 662-7295 1992 Bayliner 2556 Cruser w/diesel engine & gen. Many extras, $14k, obo. 570-9842 Winner ski boat with Mercruiser drive (Chevy V6) and trailer. Needs interior work. $2800. 662-570-9842 9100 or 205-242- 7264. Must see!
EMPLoYMENT
Asst. Property Manager/Mini Storage Operator, PT. Looking for a people person with strong technical skills. Experience desired: mini storage/Uoperations, Haul customer service, proficient in Microsoft Office. Columbus, MS. Send resume to: cara@gatewaycenterministorage.com.
room table with maple wood top and 4 cushioned chairs. Never used! Paid $600, will take $300. 574-3277 Above ground swimming pool ladder, like new, holds up to 600 lbs. $125. 889-9644 Electric water cooler, hot/cold $40. West Point, 295-3537
mer bloom. 662-5490010. Aberdeen. Attention Barbers, Hair Stylists, Nail Techs, Braiders... the list goes on! Have a talent you want to display but don't have the space? Rental booths are available in our salon. Licensed Professionals Only. 242-5297 Remodeling Sale: Corner shower unit, $200; 2 toilets, $10/ea.; 2 rooms of carpet and pads, $50/$75. Cash only - you haul. 662574-2543 PROBUILT STORAGE SHEDS, CABINS, and more. Call Dennis Miller at Probuilt of Columbus. 662-2410000 or cell 662-3120860. Econo-storage sheds for a low rent-toown $54.44/mo. Call today! Follow Alizzy Crafts on
Facebook! 574-3992 Womens assorted sizes of CAZ rings, also ring sizers and mens assorted sizes of sterling silver rings. $10/ea., or take all for $100. Assorted Front Cutlery pocket knives, all still new in box, $10/ea. or all for $100. 329-5959 2 bedroom condo, sleeps 6. Escape to the Shores at Orange Beach, AL - $850 week of March 16-23. 494-4207 Power wheelchair, power lift for vehicle package, $2500. Power wheelcair Dalton MP3C-1 300 lb. Harmaar AL, 500 chair power lift carrier, chair cover, bought Jan. 2011. 662-328-7726 Indian black leather jacket, Mens XL, like new, retails For $1685,
selling for $500. 662574-3893 Trailer axles - one with brakes, one without; plus new tires, 15, $850, obo. 549-0003
wide, or land with the purchase of your new home. 205-339-5397.
$5,000 GUARANTEED. Pull, push or trade for a new home. 205-3395483
PETS & ANIMALS

Chinese Crestapoo pups, 4 females, $400; 2 males, $350. 3 hairy hairless, 3 with hair. CKC registered, wonderful family pet! Ready now. email: karlahope@gmail.com or call 662-356-4977 for info and pics.
FOR ALL YOUR REAL ESTATE NEEDS - call Sheri Lipsey, ReMax Real Estate 327-7750 or 662-549-1354
MISC.
E911 reflective road bluebird markers; houses; bird feeders; old car tag dust pans; $5-$20. 662-328-6963 or 574-5624 DAYLILY CLUMPS Downsizing garden! While they last, named daylily clumps. Beautiful, easy to grow, sun loving plants. Tagged varieties only $5 each. Cash & carry. Plant now for Spring & Sum-
SERVICES PRoVIDED
March 14, 2012
FURNITURE & APPLIANCES

White Gas Stove, good condition $65. 662327-5890 Small deep freezer, good condition, $65. 662-570-9842 Wrought iron dining
BoATS, RVs & MoToRCYCLES

1990 Prowler camper, 8x32, new furnace (2 years old); self contained, low mileage. $2700. Contact Annette Berry, 662-327-
REAL ESTATE
MANAGERS SPECIAL: Direct to you! 3 BR/2BA, $29,989. Homes are limited. Call 205-339-5628 We will pay o your singlewide, double-
aGGro Guitar Academy - Guitar lessons for beginner and intermediate. My home or yours. Reasonable Rates. 662-465-7943
Need spring cleaning all year long? Call Shelia, 662-240-8979. References available.
__________

"Hotdonia": The Problem That Wasn't

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"Hotdonia": The Problem That Wasn't

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Publishing Weekl y!

A Hot Night in Hotdonia

Reforming Education Protect Yourself from Violent Crime

CCVB Board Must Work on Image

Let Money Follow Students

Page 15 Visit WWW.REALSTORYPUBLISHING.COM for more!

Photos by Christy Tracey unless otherwise noted

by Joseph B. St. John

FROM THE EDITOR

J.B. ST. JOHN

The Problem That Wasnt

March 14, 2012

rparlato@realstorypublishing.com fandresen@realstorypublishing.com jdorroh@realstorypublishing.com kate@realstorypublishing.com

GUEST FEATURE WRITER

ART & PRODUCTION

CINDY LYNCH J.B. ST. JOHN

ads@realstorypublishing.com info@realstorypublishing.com classifieds@realstorypublishing.com subscriptions@realstorypublishing.com

ALWAYS THE TRUTH...NO COMPROMISE

THE REAL STORY

Check for daily updates online: http://realstorypublishing.com Facebook.com/rspublishing __________

Dont miss an issue!

Joseph B. St. John

FROM THE EDITOR

March 14, 2012

Real Story Sta Report

Ben Kilgore Press Release

Joseph B. St. John

ALWAYS THE TRUTH...NO COMPROMISE

FROM THE EDITOR

A Hot Night in Hotdonia

ALWAYS THE TRUTH...NO COMPROMISE

March 14, 2012

Liddell Provides Update to Teachers, Sta

FROM THE EDITOR

March 14, 2012

ALWAYS THE TRUTH...NO COMPROMISE

FROM THE EDITOR

Cal-City Grocery Moving Forward

March 14, 2012

Cal-City Grocery owner, Je Doty, says he wants business, not trouble.

Joseph B. St. John

UPDATE cont. from pg. 5

ALWAYS THE TRUTH...NO COMPROMISE

CCVB Board Must Work on Image

March 14, 2012

Columbus-Lowndes Library Gears Up for Newly Released 1940 Census Records

Special to e Real Story

ALWAYS THE TRUTH...NO COMPROMISE

A Suggestion for Bomb Threateners

March 14, 2012

e Real Story Sta

PIzzA oN THE GRILL

Need an app? ed n pp? i-nigma.mobi i igma.mobi b

www.colu www.columbusmainstreet.com w umbusmainstreet.com main t om

ALWAYS THE TRUTH...NO

Update from Issue 1:

Back at the Home Front in ol Virginia

March 14, 2012

Bob Gurske, R.I.P July 4, 2011

ALWAYS THE TRUTH...NO COMPROMISE

Project X Wastes Potential with Sexism, Idiocy

Oliver Cooper and Thomas Mann live it up too much in Project X.

March 14, 2012