Mental health bills improve care
New legislation recently signed by Gov. Haley Barbour in regards to mental health will make some small changes in how mental health services are delivered in Mississippi and even smaller changes in Lafayette County. (May 10, 2010, Page 5A)
So how well do you know your ‘times’ tables?
Have they changed the way youngsters are taught math, particularly the multiplication tables? Editor Don Whitten did an unscientific survey/study to see how well people knew their “times” tables and wonders if calculators and other modern tools have lessened how much time is spent teaching youngsters to learn – or memorize – their multiplication tables. (May 10, 2010, Page 4A)
Are they ready?
More than 2,200 graduates received degrees Saturday during the University of Mississippi’s 2010 commencement ceremony held in the Grove. Former Mississippi governor and U.S. Navy Secretary Ray Mabus gave the commencement address where he challenged students to do something bigger than themselves. (May 10, 2010, Page 1A)
MEMA, FEMA assess local tornado damage
The number of homes damaged by the F2 tornado that ripped through Abbeville early Sunday morning is higher than emergency management officials first estimated, although most of the damage is minor, Lafayette County Emergency Management Coordinator David Shaw said. (May 7, 2010, Page 2A)
Layoffs at Lafayette
Several positions from each school in the Lafayette County School District are being cut due to ongoing funding shortfalls. While some school employees have already been informed their position was being cut, others were still being notified this week, Superintendent Mike Foster said. (May 7, 2010, Page 1A, 9A)
Sunday alcohol sales law drafted
A request for alcohol sales on Sundays is underway with a proposed new ordinance being developed by a local restaurant owner. The request will be presented to the Oxford Board of Aldermen at its May 18 meeting, Mayor Pat Patterson said. (May 7, 2010, Page 1A, 9A)
Road project remains in limbo
A proposed Highway 6-Jackson Avenue interchange under discussion for at least 12 years continues to remain stalled due to complications from ongoing development in the area, Mississippi Department of Transportation officials say.
MDOT had a conference call with the Oxford Board of Aldermen on Thursday to discuss the project. (May 7, 2010, Page 1A, 5A)
Mom – always thinking of everyone else
Co-Publisher Tim Phillips looks back at all his mother has done to help him, his brothers and his family through the years and takes the time to thank her on Mother’s Day weekend. (May 7, 2010, Page 4A)
Letters to the Editor
Local pastor Chet Bush writes in support of respecting women, relating a story from his past that helped solidify his position. (May 7, 2010, Page 4A)
Kids learn fire safety
The Oxford Fire Department is accepting applications for its summer Fire Academy where kids will learn what it’s like to be a firefighter.
The five-day academy will be for children 6 to 12 years old and will be held from 9 a.m. to noon, June 26-30 at Fire Station No. 4 on Mall Drive. (May 6, 2010, Page 2)
