013112 Corinth E-Edition by Daily Corinthian

Tuesday Jan. 31,

2012

50 cents

Daily Corinthian Vol. 116, No. 26

Mostly cloudy Today

Tonight

• Corinth, Mississippi • 16 pages • One section

MHP driver’s services offer options Office is located inside the Northeast at Corinth facility BY BOBBY J. SMITH bjsmith@dailycorinthian.com

The Mississippi Highway Pa-

trol Driver’s Services office in Corinth offers a variety of options for people who want to obtain or renew a driver’s license. The office is located inside the Northeast at Corinth facility at 2759 South Harper Road. MHP personnel are on hand from 8 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Driving tests and permit tests are given five days a week, from 8

until 11 a.m. and 1 until 4 p.m. The Driver’s Service Office now offers 8-year regular licenses — in addition to the standard 4-year licenses. The fee for the 8-year licenses is $43. The 8-year option is not available for CDL or Class-D licenses. The facility is home to one of the state’s approximately 30 automated license renewal kiosks. Similar in appearance

to an ATM machine, the kiosk allows drivers to renew their regular licenses completely unassisted. All it takes is a debit or credit card. The kiosk does not accept cash. Examiner Nancy Brown said the machine is good for people who can’t make it to the Driver’s Service Office during regular hours. The easy-to-use kiosk features a touch-screen interface

and provides video to help users through the renewal process. After a few simple steps, the machine prints out a temporary driver’s license that is good for 14 days after it is issued. The actual license comes in the mail within three to five days. The cost of using the kiosk is $26.50, slightly higher than the regular renewal fee because of the addPlease see DRIVERS | 2

Federal grant adds boat slips at State Park BY JEBB JOHNSTON jjohnston@dailycorinthian.com

Staff photos by Steve Beavers

Ciera Anthony works on a technique with self-defense instructor Greg Bullard.

Course teaches self-defense tactics BY STEVE BEAVERS sbeavers@dailycorinthian.com

Women are learning how to think quickly. Through a self-defense workshop. A pair of courses are being taught at Northeast Mississippi Community College and the Corinth Sportsplex. Both are designed to help women know how to react in escaping an attack and how to use the element of surprise as part of the defense. “Most people think the course is about learning to fight,” said instructor Greg Bullard. “The class teaches you methods of escape. The best way to avoid a dangerous situation is to not be there.” Bullard, a 3rd Degree Black Belt in Taekwondo, says the two keys in selfdefense is awareness and avoidance. “If a situation doesn’t feel right, you need to avoid it so you won’t have to

“Most people think the course is about learning to fight. The class teaches you methods of escape. The best way to avoid a dangerous situation is to not be there.”

IUKA — J.P. Coleman State Park hopes to attract larger boats to its marina with new boat slips to be constructed partly with federal grant dollars. The U.S. Department of the Interior announced a Boating Infrastructure Grant Program award of $802,560 towards a project to add 20 transient boating slips at the Coleman park marina. It is one of 11 projects across the U.S. to receive funds. “Right now, the state park just has the smaller docks,” said Gary Matthews, director of the Tishomingo County Development Foundation. “These are designed for the much bigger boats that we’re seeing on Pickwick Lake. Most of these people are making the great circuit from the Great Lakes to the Gulf of Mexico. It’s something that should bring more visitors to the area.” He said the project might reach the bid phase by springtime. The total project is $1.254 million, with the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks, Tishomingo County, the development foundation and Tombigbee River Valley Water Management District all contributing. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service grants targeted transient boats — those staying 10 days or less — that are at least 26 feet in length and used for recreation. Please see GRANT | 2

Drug unit makes new meth arrests BY JEBB JOHNSTON jjohnston@dailycorinthian.com

Greg Bullard Course instructor defend yourself,” said Bullard. “Proper awareness and the right attitude may be all it takes sometimes to keep you from harm.” Most attackers are looking for individuals who are weak according to Bullard. Bullard urges women to be aware of their surroundings if they find themselves in an unwanted situation. “Everyone needs some level of selfdefense capabilities to be safe,” said the 54 year old. “If you show your are

not going to be a target, a lot of situations will not happen.” Having that frame of mind takes time. “Knowing technique is not as important as doing it,” he said. “Once you practice it over time it becomes easy.” Those interested in attending the self-defense course at the Sportsplex should show up today at 5:30 p.m. For more information about the Northeast course call 662-720-7296. Cost for each course is $35.

The Alcorn Narcotics Unit charged two after an investigation of alleged cooking of methamphetamine. Phillip Dewayne Hobgood, 40, of 44 County Road 342, Corinth, and Tiffany Michelle Stacks, 28, of the same address, were each charged with felony possession of methamphetamine, possession of two or more precursors with intent to manufacture methamphetamine, and conspiracy to manufacture methamphetamine. On Thursday, officers went to 44 County Road 342 to investigate possible drug activity. Hobgood consented to a search of the residence during which officers found several items used to cook methamphetamine along with several grams of methamphetamine, according to NarPlease see ARRESTS | 2

Arts in McNairy launches annual amateur photo contest BY BOBBY J. SMITH bjsmith@dailycorinthian.com

Contest organizers have released details for Arts in McNairy’s sixth annual Amateur Photo Contest. Photo Contest Chairperson George Souders invited all local photographers to participate in the contest. “We are interested in people who participated in the past staying involved and new people getting involved,” said Souders. Last year over 250 photographs were entered in the competition. Between 50 and 60 photographers enter their work in the contest each year, Souders said. The final day for submissions is Friday, April 13, from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Photos should be dropped off at the UT Martin/ Selmer facility just off U.S. 45

“We are interested in people who participated in the past staying involved and new people getting involved.” George Souders Contest Chairperson North. Photos mailed must be postmarked by Monday, April 9, to: Attention George Souders, c/o AiM Photo Contest, UT Martin/Selmer, 1269 Tennessee Ave., Selmer, Tenn. 38375. An entry form with the following information must be affixed to the back of each entry: Name, address and phone number; title of photo; category of entry; division of entry; location and date the photo was taken. Photographers should include a price if they want to sell the photo. Only checks or money orders will be accepted. Entry fees

should be made payable to Arts in McNairy. All participants must agree to be put on display at UTM/ Selmer from April 15 until May 11. Winning entries will possibly be published in area newspapers and the AiM newsletter. Winners will be contacted by phone. Photos will be judged in seven categories: Natural landscape; architectural landscape; people; pets, wildlife or animals; black & white (any subject); digitally/ computer manipulated or edited; and McNairy County (any photo taken inside the county).

Index Stocks........7 Classified......14 Comics...... 11 Wisdom...... 10

Weather........5 Obituaries........ 3 Opinion........4 Sports........8

The purpose of the contest is to bring exposure to the art of photography and showcase McNairy County. The contest is open to anyone regardless of age, except the panel of judges and professional photographers.

Contest Rules ■ Photos must have been taken since the year 2009. ■ Photos can be taken anywhere, except those entered in the McNairy County category. ■ Photos must be submitted in an 8-by-10 or 5-by-7 format.

■ Photos must be unframed. However they must be matted, preferably white. ■ Photos can be digital or film, black & white or color. ■ Photos must not be previously published. ■ Photos which won an award in any previous AiM photo contest are not eligible for the 2012 contest. An open reception for the contest’s winners will be held from 2 until 4 p.m. on Sunday, April 15, at the UT Martin/Selmer center. The public is invited to view an exhibit featuring the photos submitted in the contest. Entry forms are available at the photo-center at Wal-Mart in Selmer, Tenn. For more information or to request an entry form by mail contact George Souders at 731610-1365.

On this day in history 150 years ago President Lincoln issues Special War Order No. 1 which specifically directs the Army of the Potomac to advance on Manassas, Va. no later than February 22, Washington’s Birthday. Gen. George B. McClellan ignores the order.

2 • Daily Corinthian

Local/Region

Tuesday, January 31, 2012

Things to do Today Senior activities The First Presbyterian Senior Adult Ministry is hosting a Wii sports class for senior adults on Tuesdays at 9 a.m. There is no cost to participate. Call the church office at 286-6638 to register or Kimberly Grantham at 284-7498.

‘Outstanding Citizen’ The Junior Auxiliary of Corinth, Inc. is now accepting nominations for the Outstanding Citizen of 2012. Applications may be obtained at the Corinth Library, The Alliance or the Daily Co-

rinthian office. Mail all nominations and supporting data to Annie Richardson, 2105 Maple Road, Corinth, MS 38834. The deadline for receiving this information is Friday, Feb. 10.

class starts. For more information, contact Sergio Warren at 720-5432 or sergio.warren@bmhcc.org; or Susan Henson at 212-2745 or slhenson2009@hotmail. com.

Zumba classes

Culinary Cafe

From now through June, Baptist Memorial Hospital-Booneville will sponsor a free Zumba class at the Westside Community Center every Tuesday starting at 6 p.m. Doors will open 30 minutes before the class begins — no one will be allowed to enter after the

Reserve a seat today for an exotic meal featuring European cuisine at the first of four Culinary Cafés produced and staffed by the students of Northeast Mississippi Community College’s Culinary Arts Technology program Thursday, Feb. 2. For only $8 patrons

may feast on a Bacon Corn Chowder appetizer, an Entrée of Dark Bread Crusted Pork Tenderloin with Colcannon Irish Potatoes, Cauliflower Gratin and Focaccia, as well as Orange Poached Pears for dessert. Lunch will be served in the Waller Hall dining room from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. Reservations are required by today. For more information about the program or the Culinary Cafés, contact program instructor Tim Gilmore at 662-720-7233 or by email at tdgilmore@ nemcc.edu.

Music exhibit “Music, Sweet Music” is the subject of the featured exhibit at the Tishomingo County Archives & History Museum. The exhibit gives visitors an opportunity to view phonographs, records, 8-track tapes, etc., used by artists to record their abilities in perpetuity. The exhibit will be available for viewing through April 13. Contributions to the exhibit will be considered. The Museum is currently open to the public Tuesday-Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Beginning Feb. 1, the museum will

begin opening each Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Art exhibit Nineteen artists with the Mississippi Painters Society are exhibiting their artwork at the Northeast Mississippi Community College campus in Booneville through Feb. 20. The paintings will be exhibited in the art gallery of Anderson Hall. Gallery hours are Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.3:30 p.m. Contact Terry Anderson at 720-7336 or tfanderson@nemcc.edu for more info.

Assistance Caregiver support The Alzheimer’s Caregiver Support Group in Corinth is partnered with the Alzheimer’s Association Mississippi Chapter. Keri Roaten is the facilitator. The group meets every first Thursday of each month at the Corinth Public Library, from 6-7 p.m. The group discusses the hardships of those caring for people effected by the disease and offer several different resources as well. For more information, contact k_roaten@hotmail.com or 662-594-5526.

Medicare help The Northeast Mississippi Planning & Development District of Booneville can help with qualifications for extra help through Social Security for Medicare prescriptions. Call SHIP (State Health Insurance Assistance Program) at 1-800-948-3090.

New business owners The MSBDC Business Assistance Center @ Northeast Community College-Booneville address is MSBDC Business Assistance Center @ Northeast Community College-Corinth, 2759 S. Harper Road, Corinth. The telephone number is 662-696-2311. Office hours are Wednesdays and Thursdays, 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Marines helping Marines “The Few and the Proud — Marines Helping Marines” — a United States Marine Corps League is a visitation program for senior inactive Marines. When a senior inactive Marine is housebound or in a nursing home or hospice, the Corinth detachment will visit fellow Marines — because once

a Marine always a Marine. For more information, call 662-287-3233.

Support groups ■ A support group for the blind and vision impaired will meet the first Saturday of each month from 10-11:30 a.m. at the Tate Baptist Church fellowship hall, 1201 N. Harper Rd., Corinth. There will be no cost to attend. Contact Patsy at the church office at 2862935 for more information. ■ The “Good Grief” ministry is for those who have recently lost a loved one, or are caring for those in the final chapter(s) of their life. This ministry of support, consolation and moving forward is open to all in the community. For more information please call 662-587-9602. Hopewell United Methodist Church is located at 4572 CR 200 (Old Farmington Road), Corinth. ■ Magnolia Regional Health Center’s Respiratory Therapy Department has a support program for those with respiratory disease and their families. “Better Breathers” is a social gathering of people interested in understanding and living with chronic lung disease on a daily basis, including caretakers. Meetings are free. Area professionals speak on topics related to lung disease — medications, treatments, therapies, etc. Better Breathers allows participants to share experiences, learn about their disease, products and medical facts and issues that affect their quality of life. MRHC is offering Better Breathers classes every 3rd Monday of the month from 1-2 p.m. at the Harper Road Complex. To reserve a space at the next Better Breathers meeting or for more information about the Better Breathers Club, call Candice Whitaker, RRT at

DRIVERS: Office handles out of state transfers, renewals and permit tests among services CONTINUED FROM 1

ed cost of shipping. The machine keeps late hours. It is available until 10 p.m., when NEMCC’s Corinth facility locks its doors. The office also handles out of state transfers. Documents needed to get a driver’s license transferred from another state are the out-of-state license, a Social Security card and a proof of residence. MHP personnel are

P.O. Box 1800 Corinth, MS 38835

available for permit tests and license renewal — but not driving tests — at Burnsville Town Hall on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month from 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Mississippi drivers now have the opportunity to renew their licenses online. This can be done every other renewal time at www.ms.gov/hp/drivers/ license/Main.do For more information contact the Driver’s Service Office at 286-7704.

662-279-0801. ■ The Crossroads Group of Narcotics Anonymous meets Monday, Wednesday and Friday at noon, and at 7 p.m., seven days a week, at 506 Cruise Street in Corinth. All meetings are non-smoking. The Northeast Mississippi area of Narcotics Anonymous Hotline is 662-841-9998. ■ The Savannah 123 Group of Narcotics Anonymous meets on Wednesday from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and on Saturday from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. at 589 N. Cherry St. in downtown Savannah, Tenn. ■ A sexual assault support group meets in Tupelo on Wednesdays at 1 p.m. For more information and location of the group, please call 1-800-5277233. ■ NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) is sponsoring a monthly support group for adults experiencing a mental illness. Meetings will be held the first Monday of each month at 6 p.m. in Iuka at the public library. The group will be led by trained mentors who are themselves experienced at living well with mental illness. Please call the NAMI Mississippi office for more information at 1-800-357-0388. ■ Tishomingo County Families First Resource Center, located at Tishomingo County High School, has a Domestic Violence Support Group, open to women only. Call 4237318 for date, time and location of this group meeting. ■ Chapter 8, a Northeast Mississippi Scoliosis support group, provides information and understanding for parents, children and adults with the condition that causes the spine to curve abnormally. For more information, contact Bonnie Buchanan at 662-369-6148 or scoliosishelp@bellsouth.net.

■ “Blindness doesn’t know the meaning of discrimination. It can strike at any time or at any age. There are over 10,000 blind men, women and children throughout Mississippi.” For anyone, or their family member or friend, who is visually impaired — or has recently lost their vision — adjustments are often difficult. For help or for more information, call Elsa Barrantes-Bullard, member of the Board of Directors of the National Federation of the Blind of Mississippi at 662-286-8076 or 662643-9589. ■ The Corinth Downtown Group AA meets Sundays and Tuesdays at 8 p.m. at the First Baptist Church, 501 N. Main Street, Corinth. For more information for all area AA groups, please call 662-284-5623. ■ An Alcoholics Anonymous meeting is being held in Iuka. Meetings are at the old Chevy dealership building off old Hwy. 25 in Iuka each Wednesday at 7 p.m. and Friday at 7:30 p.m. Alcoholics Anonymous is a fellowship of men and women whose common welfare is to stay sober and help others achieve sobriety. The Iuka meeting is an open meeting, anyone who has a problem with alcohol or other substances is welcome to attend. For more information, call 662-660-3150. ■ Operation Second Chance is a support group for those with loved ones incarcerated within the state of Mississippi. Meetings are held every third Tuesday of the month, 6 p.m., at Skyline Baptist Church, Hwy. 178, Tupelo. For more information, contact 287-6652 or 2878452. ■ The Autism Connection, a family support and community awareness group, meets every second Thursday at 6:30

p.m. at the Mississippi State Extension Center located at 2200 Levee Road in Corinth. All interested parents, families, care givers, advocates and public service providers are urged to attend. For more information contact 662-287-8588. ■ The Corinth Crossroads Multiple Sclerosis Support Group has its monthly meetings on the third Wednesday of each month at 11:30 a.m. at the Mississippi State University Extension Service, 2200 Levee Rd., Corinth, (located behind the Crossroads Arena). For more information, call Joy at 662-462-7325, or e-mail joycforsyth@ frontiernet.net.

Thrift stores ■ The Corinth Scottish Rites Masonic Center Thrift Store is located at the corner of Childs and Fillmore streets (710 Fillmore) in Corinth, and will be open Thursdays, 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.; Fridays, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. and Saturdays, 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. Profits will go toward diagnosing and teaching Dyslexia Therapy. Donations are being accepted for immediate resale. For more information, call 662-286-5434. • The Lighthouse Family Thrift Store is located in the Harper Square Mall at 1801 South Harper Road in Corinth. One hundred percent of the revenue goes back into the community in helping the Lighthouse Foundation. The store is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9:30 a.m.- 5:30 p.m. ■ Those wanting to donate items to the Salvation Army, 1209 U.S. Hwy. 72 West, whether it be clothing or furniture can call 287-6979. The Salvation Army hours are 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Saturday. The social service part of the agency is open 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-

ARRESTS: Several charged for labs, trafficking CONTINUED FROM 1

cotics Officer Darrell Hopkins. Hobgood was transported to the county jail and Stacks was arrested when she arrived at the residence. Bond was set at $20,000. Deputies David Derrick, Scott Dalton and Mike Billingsley assisted in the search. In other arrests: ■ The Prentiss County Sheriff’s Department arrested two after investigating a trespassing report and discovering the makings of a meth lab on Jan. 22.

Home Delivery 1 year - - - - - - - $139.80 6 months - - - - - - $71.40 3 months - - - - - - $35.85

Timothy L. Roberts, 37, of County Road 3450, Booneville, was charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and felony malicious mischief. Christy Ann Payne, 38, of County Road 3070, Marietta, was charged with possession of precursors with intent to manufacture methamphetamine. Bond was set at $10,000 for Payne and $7,500 for Roberts, but both were held for probation or parole violations with the Mississippi Department of Corrections. ■ James Randall Wilson, 45, of West Church

Mail Rates 1 year - - - - - - - -$195.00 6 months - - - - - - $98.70 $97.50 3 months - - - - - - $49.35 $48.75

Street, Booneville, was arrested Jan. 20 after a traffic stop near the Highway 30 bypass and County Road 5031 and charged with possession of a controlled substance. Tolar said deputies discovered nine dosage units of Dilaudid in a pill bottle in Wilson’s pocket. Bond was set at $25,000. ■ Mickey Lee Holland, 35, of County Road 7301, Booneville, was charged with grand larceny on Jan. 20 in connection with the theft of a grill from an address on Highway 45 South. Misdemeanor warrants were also served. Bond was set at $10,000.

To start your home delivered subscription: Call 287-6111 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday. For your convenience try our ofﬁce pay plans.

Miss your paper? To report a problem or delivery change call the circulation department at 287-6111. Late, wet or missing newspaper complaints should be made before 10 a.m. to ensure redelivery to immediate Corinth area. All other areas will be delivered the next day.

Friday.

Post 6 meets Perry Johns Post No. 6, American Legion will hold its regular monthly meeting every second Thursday at 7 p.m. at the Legion Hall on South Tate St., Corinth, along with the Ladies’ Auxiliary and Sons of Legion Squadron No. 6.

Diabetes ‘Tune Up’ Magnolia Diabetes Center is presenting a continuing series of “tune up” classes for those living with diabetes every Thursday from 6-7 p.m. at the Magnolia Regional Health Center conference room. Topics include On the Road to Better Managing Your Diabetes, Diabetes and Healthy Eating, Monitoring Your Blood Glucose and Continuing Your Journey with Diabetes. For more information and reservations, call 662-293-1485 or go to aham@mrhc.org.

Support needed Local veterans are calling on the community to step up and help make the return of the Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall possible. The wall appearance has a budget of $15,000, and donations are needed to make it happen. The wall’s return, sponsored by Veterans & Family Honors, is scheduled for June 22 through June 25 at property adjacent to North Corinth Baptist Church. The event will include opening and closing ceremonies, 24-hour security, free admission and help with locating names on the wall. Contributions may be mailed to Adrian Edge, treasurer, 107 N. 4th St., Booneville, MS 38829. For more information, contact Chartres at 2840739, McDaniel at 4156475 or Rickey Crane at 415-5876.

GRANT: 11 grants given CONTINUED FROM 1

Funding comes from the Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund, which boaters and manufacturers support through excise and other taxes on certain equipment and boat fuel. The 11 grants for docks, boat slips and facilities totaled $7.5 million. The U.S. Department of the Interior said the projects will provide quality outdoor opportunities for boaters and anglers while creating jobs through the construction projects.

USPS 142-560 The Daily Corinthian is published daily Tuesday through Sunday by PMG, LLC. at 1607 South Harper Road, Corinth, Miss.Periodicals postage paid at Corinth, MS 38834

Postmaster: Send address changes to: P.O. Box 1800, Corinth, MS 38835

Local

3 • Daily Corinthian

Tuesday, January 31, 2012

Deaths Glenn Scott

Glenn Garrett “Scottie” Scott was born in Hardin County on July 27, 1955, the son of Betty Ratliff Scott and the late Paul Ray Scott. He was united in marriage to Sandra Hinton on Dec. 5, 1980, his best friend and soul mate, who survives. Scottie served as store manager for 32 years at Ray and Sandy’s Big Star in Counce. He formerly worked at Piggly Wiggly in Savannah and Adamsville and Sunflower in Savannah. He was a member of Hopewell Baptist Church in Savannah. He received a black belt in karate at Crossroads Martial Arts in Corinth. Scottie enjoyed working with the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, on older vehicles, and spending time with his grandsons. He departed this life on Friday, Jan. 27, 2012, at the age of 56 years and 6 months. In addition to his wife and mother, he is survived by three daughters, Candy Murphy (Stanton) of Savannah, Tenn., Wendy Gagyi and Mandy Scott of Saltillo, Tenn.; three grandsons, Ryan Murphy (Brittney), Nathan Murphy and Dillon Clausel; four granddaughters, Kiana Ray Clausel and Hannah, Sara, and Hailey Gagyi; and one great-granddaughter, McCalleigh Marie Rogers. He was preceded in death by his father, Paul Ray Scott; a brother, Larry Scott; and a sister, Rhonda Scott Walden. Services were Monday, Jan. 30, 2012, at 3 p.m. at Hopewell Baptist Church in Savannah with Randy Isbell and Derek Westmoreland officiating. Burial followed in the Memory Gardens at Savannah.

of Iuka. William Rambo will officiate the service under the direction of Cutshall Funeral Home.

William Gunn

RIPLEY — William Monroe Gunn, 58, died Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012, at his home. Arrangements are pending with Patterson Memorial Chapel of Corinth.

Vera Martin

TISHOMINGO — Funeral services for Vera Mae Martin, 77, are set for 1 p.m. today at Carter’s Branch M.B. Church with burial at Carter’s Branch Cemetery. Ms. Martin died Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012, at North Mississippi Medical Center. Born Jan. 28, 1935, she attended Cherokee schools and was a selfemployed cosmetologist. She was a member of St. Peter’s M.B. Church. Survivors include two sons, James E. Martin Jr. and Danny H. (Irvy) Mar-

Bryson Dill

IUKA — Bryson Dill, 18, died Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012. A private memorial will be held at a later date. Mr. Dill had just enlisted in the U.S. Army with plans to be in artillery. Survivors include his parents, Randy and Kimberly Dill of Iuka; his grandparents, Sue and R.L. Dill and Cheryl Braden; and two sisters, Randi Leigh Ann Dill and Laura Danielle Dill, both

Michael Gene Wickersham

Funeral services for Michael Gene Wickersham, 64, of Corinth, are set for 2 p.m. today at Oakland Baptist Church with burial at Henry Cemetery. Mr. Wickersham died Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012, at Magnolia Regional Health Center. Born in Gassville, Ark., on May 9, 1947, he graduated from Yellville Summit High School in Yellville, Ark., in 1965. He attended the University of Central Arkansas on basketball and baseball scholarships and received his bachelor’s degree there. He was head basketball coach in Earle, Ark., for Wickersham two years and Mark Twain High School in New London, Mo.., for one year. He became an agent for Shelter Insurance in 1973 in Yellville, Ark., and retired in January 1999. While in Yellville, he served 15 years on the Yellville Summit School board and served on the Marion County Nursing Home and Hospital Board and the Marion County Airport Commission. He also served as chairman of the building committee of the present sanctuary of First Baptist Church - Yellville, where he also served as Sunday School director and taught Senior High Sunday School and Adult Sunday School classes. He and Peggy moved to Corinth in 2004 and became members of Oakland Baptist Church, where he has coached Upward Basketball and is presently serving on the finance committee, outside security and is the president of the Wayne Price Sunday School class. He loved all sports including Arkansas Razorback tin; three daughters, Ethel M. Martin-Lofton, Barbara A. Martin-Abington and Tamara L. Martin; brothers William T. Thorn and Sam Thorn; three grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. The Rev. Anthony Welch will officiate the service. Visitation is from noon until service time at the church. Grayson Funeral Services is in charge of arrangements.

Robert Middleton Sr.

Funeral services for Robert A. Middleton Sr., 69, of Corinth, are set for 1 p.m. today at Cutshall Funeral Home Chapel in Iuka with burial at Oak Grove Cemetery.

Mr. Middleton died Sunday, Jan. 29, 2012, at Magnolia Regional Health Center. He was a retired construction engineer and a member of Rocky Springs United Methodist Church. Survivors include his wife, Martha Middleton of Corinth; one son, Robert Aubrey Middleton Jr. (Beth) of Birmingham, Ala.; one daughter, Deborah White of Knoxville, Tenn.; his mother, Ruth Pittman Middleton of Winona; one brother, James Harold Middleton of Winona; one sister, Carol Middleton Richardson of Columbus; and four grandchildren, Robert Aubrey Middleton III, William Oliver Middleton, William Andrew Rogers

basketball and football and attending Northeast Mississippi Community College basketball games with his friends Jerry, Harold, Leck Counce, Jerry Hammett and Sam Tull. He especially enjoyed attending Biggersville Senior High boys basketball games. Survivors include his wife of 40 years, Peggy Little Wickersham of Corinth; a son, Michael Brent Wickersham of Dallas; numerous cousins in Yellville, Ark.; brothers-in-law Taft Little (Janie) of Corinth, Thurston Little (Helen) of Rienzi, Travis Little (Doris) of Corinth, Jerry Little (Joyce) of Corinth, and Harold Little (Ann) of Glen; three sisters-in-law, Glenda Little Moore of Glen, Alberta Little of Corinth and Caroline Weatherford of Corinth; and other relatives and a host of friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Thew and Moatt Camp Wickersham; a sister, Thewetta Wickersham; parents-in-law T.A. and Velma Little; four brothers-in-law, Billy Moore, James Little, Bobby Little and Billy Little; two sisters-in-law, Neva Doris Little and Wanza Little; and grandparents George and Molly Wickersham and William and Anna Dosier Camp. Pallbearers are Loyd Locke, Phillip Derrick, John Dryer, Cliff Roten, Wayne Prince and Bobby Whittemore. Honorary pallbearers are Taft Little, Thurston Little, Travis Little, Jerry Little, Harold Little, Jerry Hammett, Leck Counce, Sam Tull, Mike Moore, Al Stables, Al Clemmons and James Wright. Visitation was Monday evening at Magnolia Funeral Home. Dr. Randy Bostick will officiate the service. Memorial contributions may be made to the Oakland Baptist Church Building Fund. and Courtney Paige Rogers. He was preceded in death by his father, James Aubrey Middleton. The Rev. Robert Armstrong and Andrew Rogers will officiate the service. Visitation is 11 a.m. until service time.

Wilford Morgan

MICHIE, Tenn. — Funeral services for Wilford Morgan, 69, are set for 3 p.m. today at Liberty Church of Christ in Michie with burial at Liberty Cemetery. Mr. Morgan, a retired janitor for Savannah Foods, died Sunday, Jan. 29, 2012. Born in Hardin County on April 18, 1942, he also worked for Hall’s of Corinth, on the pipeline

and as a timber cutter. Survivors include his wife, Barbara Dianne Morgan of Michie; two sons, Jeff Morgan (Paula Riggs) of Ramer, Tenn., and Calvin Morgan (Amy) of Muskegon, Mich.; a sister, Jenny Martin and (Lonnie) of Shiloh, Tenn.; three brothers, William Morgan and (Jewell) of Michie, and Eugene Morgan and Billie Joe Morgan, both of Shiloh, Tenn. He was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur Odell and Jewell Fowler Morgan; a brother, Wilburn Morgan; and three sisters, Reba Doris Morgan, Loraine Collier and Christine Thacker. Shackelford Funeral Directors of Savannah is in charge of arrangements.

‘Descendants’ delivers, Streep gives iron-clad performance els most of the time and has become emotionally uninvolved with her and his two Terry daughters, Burns Alexandra (Shailene Movie Critic Woodley) and Scottie (Amara Miller). When she has a boating accident, Matt returns home to look after the teenage Alexandra and the younger Scottie. Alexandra is rebellious and outspoken. Scottie is on the way to being like her older sister. Elizabeth is in a coma and Matt has to deal with his wife’s situation, his daughter’s rebellious attitude and the trust account. To top it all off, he discovers his wife has been cheating on him. As the plot becomes more complicated, it is obvious Matt has a lot of issues that must be dealt with. The acting and performances in “The Descendants” are outstanding in this excellent look at a heartbreaking tragedy with skeletons emerging from the closet. Clooney has won the Golden Globe Award for best actor in this film and he is nominated for

The Descendants, R, ***** George Clooney, Shailene Woodley, Amara Miller, Nick Krause, Beau Bridges, Robert Forster; Fox Searchlight film; Director Alexander Payne Watching a great film gives the viewer a feeling of excitement and hope for the future of the depth and originality of the industry of entertainment for movie-goers who enjoy creativity, uniqueness and reality. “The Descendants” is an original story for the audience to appreciate. With a realistic look at a dysfunctional family that collapses as a result of a tragedy, “The Descendants” makes the grade. Matt King (George Clooney) is a lawyer in charge of a large trust account for big family of which he is part of. The family lives in Hawaii and a large portion of the land is in Matt’s hands. The trust account does not expire for seven more years and the family has been offered a large amount of money for the land. Anyone who has a sentimental value for land that has belonged to family knows how much it means to keep it. Elizabeth (Patricia Hastie) is Matt’s wife. He trav-

Now Open To The Public

DJ’ss Steak & More,, LLC

Call us for Weddings, Parties and Catering

Hillandale Country Club

Call-In Orders Welcome

13 Oakland School Rd., Corinth MS 662-284-5999 • Wed.-Sat. 4 pm - 9 pm

an Oscar as Best Actor. The movie is based on a book by Kaui Hart Hemmings. I recommend “The Descendants” for an excellent original story packed with interesting characters and outstanding acting. The final scene is absolutely terrific. The Iron Lady, PG13, *** Meryl Streep, Jim Broaddent, Alexandra Roach, Harry Lloyd, Olivia Colman; The Weinstein Company; Director Phylllda Lloyd Meryl Streep has been nominated for a Golden Globe for Best Actress and

an Oscar for Best Actress for her portrayal in “The Iron Lady.” As in her other stellar performances, she inhabits the character of Margaret Thatcher, prime minister of the United Kingdom from 1979 to 1990. The film moves from time period to time period. Though Streep is an excellent actress, the script does not clearly visualize Thatcher’s persona. We know Thatcher was one tough lady, but moving from one decade to the other without giving audiences enough information, leaves viewers a little confused about her

contributions. There is no doubt Thatcher was a strong leader during the Falkland Islands conflict, however, what was really accomplished other than saying Great Britain won? Undeniably, she was also a stubborn driving force in Great Britain, believing it was her way or the highway. The Russian’s nickname for her, “Iron Lady,” was appropriate. “Iron Lady” lingers on Thatcher’s days after she had to leave politics. The movie would have been more interesting if it had shown more of her accom-

plishments, failures and legacy. Still, it is worth watching because of the excellent performance given by Meryl Streep.

All Stadium Seating Birthday Parties Online Tickets Tuesday, January 31 - Thursday, February 2

GREY 7:20(non 3-D) (PG13) TRANSFORMERS:THE DARK OF (R) THE4:30 MOON 12:00, 6:50,4:40 7:30,7:25 10:05 MAN12:50, ON A 3:20, LEDGE4:10, (PG-13) THE LANTERN (non(PG-13) 3D) (PG13) ONEGREEN FOR THE MONEY 4:45- 10:00 7:10 BADTHE TEACHER (R) - 1:20, 4:20, 7:35, DESCENDANTS (R) 4:10 7:009:40 MR. POPPER’S (PG)CLOSE - 12:20, 2:40,4:15 4:557:15 EXTREMELY LOUDPENGUINS & INCREDIBLY (PG-13) HORRIBLE - 1:25,4:05 4:30,7:057:25, 9:45 REDBOSSES TAILS (R) (PG-13) LARRY CROWNE (PG13) - 12:10, 2:30, 7:20,7:259:40 UNDERWORLD: AWAKENING (NON 3-D)4:50, (R) 4:25 SUPER 8 (PG13) 7:20,7:35 9:50 HAYWIRE (R) -4:35 ZOOKEEPER (PG) - 1:10, 4:15,4:20 7:00,7:05 9:20 JOYFUL NOISE (PG-13) ALVIN & THE (G) 5:00 CARS 2 (non 3-D) CHIPMUNKS: (G) - 12:15, 1:00,CHIPWRECKED 3:00, 4:00, 6:45, 7:20, 9:15 CONTRABAND MONTE CARLO (PG) - 1:05,(R) 4:05,7:207:05, 9:30

DID YOU KNOW...

You have a choice who you select as your physical therapist

We’ll help you protect yourself, and your family from the unexpected.

Say “Goodbye” to Painful, Numb Feet!

Life-Final Expenses Cancer Disability Income Accident Medicare Supplements Group & Individual Health 5 Year Guaranteed Rate 3% 7 Year Guaranteed Rate 3.25%

We make house calls. Transportation available. PT does not have to be pain and torture. Physical Therapy - the way it was meant to be at

“36 Years Experience”

Billy Floyd 1509 Highway 72 East • Corinth, MS 38835 662-665-7970 bfinsure@gmail.com

Alcorn Rehab Services, Inc.

662-284-4656

1708 Shiloh Road • Corinth, MS

QuickWay CASH ADVANCES Car Title • Personal Check

Up to $1,000 on Title Advances Up to $410 on Check Advances

$450 Monthly Cash Drawings! Iuka 423-6600

Corinth C Co rinth 286-2274

APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE

Booneville Boonev eviille il 728-3070

Special Special Spa Nails Fullset $22 French Tip, Pearl Tip, and Color Tip $25 Fill Ins $14

Spa Pedicure

Spa Pedicure $25 Deluxe Pedicure $35 Luxury Pedicure $45 Signature Pedicure $50

Pro Nails Day Spa & Salon 1001 Hwy 72 East • Corinth

662-287-5020

Mon.-Sat. 9-7 Sun. - Closed

www.dailycorinthian.com

Opinion

Reece Terry, publisher

Mark Boehler, editor

4 • Tuesday, January 31, 2012

Corinth, Miss.

GOP debates make Obama look good BY ROGER SIMON The Republican field debated for the 19th time Thursday night, and once again, the media promised us it was going to be a “make or break” event. Don’t believe the media. The media say the debates have been the most critical factor in the nominating race so far because the media have been forced to watch them all. And take notes. And write stories. And we want someone to share our pain: Someone like you. These debates are making the Obama staffers in Chicago so giddy that after each one they are tearing off their clothes, running through Millennium Park and howling at the moon. And why shouldn’t they? The American people, after being treated to hour upon hour of Republican candidates being allowed to say pretty much whatever they want, are slowly discovering something: Barack Obama doesn’t look that bad anymore. An NBC News/Wall Street Journal Poll released Wednesday said that “for the first time in six months, more people approve of the job the president is doing than disapprove.” Sure, the president’s approval/disapproval figure is only 48-46, but he has achieved that after six months of solid Republican debating. After six months of attack. After six months of being told that the American economy is doomed without a steady Republican hand on the tiller of state. So what else does the poll show? “More people said they believe the economy will get better (37 percent) in the next year rather than worse (17 percent). That’s the highest level in more than a year and a seven-point jump over last month.” Oh, my. This is not what the Republicans had in mind. The debates were supposed to winnow the field and leave the strongest Republican standing. True, the number of lecterns on the stage has been winnowed from nine to four, but what have the “fittest” Republicans been telling America about their agenda? Well, Thursday night, we had a good, long talk about America’s moon colony. What moon colony? Fair question. America currently lacks a moon colony. But Newt Gingrich would like a moon colony, and it won’t even cost a lot if we offer a “prize” to people to build one.” Newt says we have to have a moon colony because, if we don’t, the Chinese will have a moon colony, and if that happens, well, it will be bad. But Mitt Romney said a moon colony could cost $1 trillion. So how big would the prize have to be to get people to compete for building the moon colony? More than $1 trillion, I would guess. And where would the U.S. government get that kind of money? We would have to borrow it from the Chinese. Who could just hold onto it and build their own moon colony. Do you see now why Obama is doing better in the polls? Not that we are supposed to spend our time worrying about the substance of these debates. That is for professional fact-checkers. Instead, the media decide who wins and who loses, who gets made and who gets broken. Looking for the little things help me decide. Which is why my notes begin: “National Anthem. All put hands on hearts. Santorum and Mitt sing. Newt and Ron Paul don’t. Why?” Further notes: “When asked by Santorum if people in Massachusetts must buy health care, Mitt replies, ‘First of all, it’s not worth getting angry about.’ Presidency pays only $400,000 a year. So why would Romney get emotional about it?” “Debate supposed to be Newt’s best opportunity to win Florida, but at one point he says, ‘Gov. Romney is exactly right’ and at another he says, ‘I agree with Gov. Romney.’ Newt appears to be lacking in mindless aggression. This is no way to win a debate.” The debate wandered back and forth and finally ended up with CNN moderator Wolf Blitzer asking the candidates, “Why are you the one person on this stage most likely to beat Barack Obama?” My notes say that Ron Paul cited his “freedom message,” that Santorum said he could win Reagan Democrats and that Romney said America needs “dramatic, fundamental, extraordinary” change. Newt, I note, said, “This is a big choice election.” But he didn’t say the choice was standing on the stage. Roger Simon is chief political columnist of politico.com, an award-winning journalist and a New York Times best selling author.

Prayer for today Dear Lord, fill us with your love and peace so those we meet will want to know you because of what they see in us. Amen.

A verse to share Let us not grow weary in doing what is right, for we will reap at harvest time, if we do not give up. — Galatians 6:9 (NRSV)

Reece Terry publisher rterry@dailycorinthian.com

Who commissioned us to remake the world? U.S. Ambassador Clinton of flashing Michael McFaul, the signal for street Obama’s man in Mosdemonstrations to cow, who just took up begin — to protest his post, has received Russia’s December’s a rude reception. And elections. Nor is it understandably so. surprising the PuPatrick tin’s people are susIn 1992, McFaul was the representa- Buchanan picious of McFaul, tive in Russia of the who added to his Columnist problems by meeting National Democratic Institute, a U.S. govwith anti-Putin dissiernment-funded agency dents the day after he prewhose mission is to pro- sented his credentials. mote democracy abroad. McFaul says this is part The NDI has been tied of his “dual-track engageto color-coded or Orange ment” with Russian society. revolutions such as those Before leaving for Moscow, that dethroned regimes in he told NPR’s “Morning Serbia, Ukraine, Kyrgyz- Edition”: “We’re not going stan, Georgia and Lebanon. to get into the business of The project miscarried in dictating (Russia’s) path (to Belarus. democracy)…. We’re just The NDI is one of sev- going to support what we eral agencies, dating to the like to call ‘universal values’ 1980s, that were set up to — not American values, not subvert communist regimes. Western values, universal With the end of the Cold values.” But what, exactly, War, however, these agen- are these “universal values?” And who are we to impose cies were not decommissioned, but recommissioned them on other nations? Did to serve as something of an Divine Providence assign us this mission? Who do we American Comintern. Where the old Comintern Americans think we are? of Lenin sought to instigate After all, we do not even communist revolutions agree ourselves on what is across the West and its em- moral and immoral, good pires, post-Cold War Amer- and evil. Indeed, our own ica decided to promote deep disagreements on democratic revolutions to what is moral and what is remake the world in the not are at the root of the culimage of late 20th century ture wars tearing this country apart. America. In 2002, McFaul wrote a In America, women have book: “Russia’s Unfinished a constitutional right to an Revolution.” abortion. Scores of millions Vladimir Putin’s men are have availed themselves not unreasonably asking if of that right since Roe v. he was sent to Moscow to Wade. Yet traditionalists of finish that revolution. Putin many faiths reject any such has already accused Hillary woman’s right and regard it

as a moral abomination. Do homosexuals have a right to cohabit, form civil unions and marry? In a few American states, yes; in others, no. But try to impose those values on nations of the Muslim and Third Worlds, where homosexuality is a moral outrage and even a capital offense, and our ambassadors will find themselves in peril. Does McFaul believe democracy is a universally superior system of government? Yet our own founding fathers detested oneman, one-vote democracy. Democracy does not even get a mention in the Constitution, the Bill of Rights or the Federalist Papers. The author of the Declaration of Independence, Thomas Jefferson, believed society should be ruled by a “natural aristocracy” of “virtue and talent.” If the promotion of democracy is a mission of our diplomats, are we to subvert the monarchies of Morocco, Jordan, Bahrain and Saudi Arabia? When we see how democracy empowered the Muslim Brotherhood and Salafis in Egypt, Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon, does it even make sense to insist that it be embraced by nations where the populations are pervasively antiAmerican? What is the universally right stand on capital punishment — the Rick Perry position in Texas or the Andrew Cuomo position in New York? In the United States, all

religions are to be treated equally and all kept out of the public square and the pubic schools. In a Muslim world that contains a fifth of mankind, Islam is the one true faith. Rival faiths have few or no rights. Are we going to push the Islamic world to treat all religions equally? We celebrate religious, racial and ethnic diversity. The Chinese, who persecute Uighurs, Tibetans, Christians and Falun Gong, detest that diversity and fear it will tear their country apart. We believe in freedom of speech and the press. Yet, in France, if you deny the Turks committed genocide against the Armenians in 1915, you are guilty of a crime, while in Turkey if you affirm that the Turks committed genocide, you have committed a crime. Should U.S. diplomats battle for repeal of both laws? Or mind our own business? If America wishes to lead the world, let us do it by example, as we once did, not by hectoring every nation on earth to adopt the American way, which as of now, does not seem to be working all that well for Americans. McFaul should stick to his diplomatic duties. Jefferson had it right, “We wish not to meddle with the internal affairs of any country.” Patrick J. Buchanan is the author of “Suicide of a Superpower: Will America Survive to 2025?”

Romney’ plight is the last WASP, Mormon edition Massachusetts govMitt Romney sumernor. “Salty,” as he moned all the righwas known, was of, teous indignation he by and for the WASP could muster after ascendancy. His a Newt Gingrich ad family was here for called him “anti-imcenturies. He rowed migrant.” Romney Rich for the Harvard crew blasted the ad shortly Lowery team and won the afterward in an interGrand Challenge Cup view: “It’s just inapNational at the Henley Royal propriate.” Review Regatta. One of his “Inappropriate.” daughters became a For Romney, that qualifies as a stinging re- horse breeder. Saltonstall buke. He also regretted in apparently had a common the strongest possible terms touch as a politician, but the Gingrich ad’s “terrible he still might understand terms.” The Republican Romney better than many campaign now pits, in Newt Republican primary voters. In his book “The Way Gingrich, a man expert at channeling and expressing of the WASP,” Richard emotions, against a man, Brookhiser summarized the Mitt Romney, who can’t or main traits of the species as “Conscience,” “Industry,” won’t. “I have emotion and pas- “Success” and “Civic-mindsion,” Romney said the oth- edness.” All can be seen in Romer day, in an assurance an overtly emotional and pas- ney, the private-equity titan sionate person would never and Mormon bishop who have to make. In Gingrich, served as the head of the Romney is fighting fire with Salt Lake City Olympics and reticence. He is a throwback once swept the floor of an to a cultural archetype that aide’s garage when he had lost its purchase in Ameri- an idle moment. The same can culture decades ago. charges that were leveled at Mitt Romney is the last the long-ago, buttoned-up WASP establishment are WASP, Mormon edition. Romney skeptics worry now directed at Romney — that he’s another John Mc- stiff, boring, inauthentic. There is an inherent poCain or Bob Dole. Maybe he’s another Leverett liteness to him. Interrupted Saltonstall, his mid-20th- by a heckler in New Hampcentury predecessor as shire, he says she lacks

Beth Cossitt

Mark Boehler

business manager bcossitt@dailycorinthian.com

editor editor@dailycorinthian.com

Willie Walker

L.W. Hodges

circulation manager circdirector@dailycorinthian.com

press foreman

“courtesy,” obviously an offense he takes seriously. Whenever he resorts to trash talk — at one debate he promised to take President Barack Obama’s attack on his wealth and “stuff it down his throat” — it feels awkward. It is as if the Marquess of Queensberry briefly strayed into a mixed martial arts octagon. It’s not that Romney won’t fight. His Super PAC filleted Gingrich in Iowa, and his entire campaign apparatus is now working to crush the former House speaker in Florida. Yet, Romney himself has no relish for the task. In the first Florida debate, he worked early on to hit Gingrich with his entire opposition research file. Rushed and uncomfortable, he seemed to enjoy it as little as Gingrich did. When he got off the attack, he shifted back into his accustomed measured and unflappable mode. Gingrich is unburdened by any inner guardrails. He loves combat. As a campaigner, he can be loudmouthed, unscrupulous and angry. It’s a style that fits the public mood, and it has been validated through the decades in our culture. We’ve been taught to trust a let-it-all-hang-out spirit

World Wide Web: www.dailycorinthian.com To Sound Off: E-mail: email: news@dailycorinthian.com news@dailycorinthian.com advertising@dailycorinthian. Circulation 287-6111 com Classified Adv. 287-6147 Classad@dailycorinthian.com

over an ethos of emotional restraint. Unfortunately for Romney, if there were a yearbook for presidential candidates, he would be deemed “Least Likely to Weep in Public.” It’s an irony of Romney’s candidacy that his genuine reserve is taken as confirmation of his inauthenticity. If Romney doesn’t wear his emotions on his sleeve, he doesn’t wear his riches there, either. He seems uncomfortable with his own success, a classic WASP trait. When he says he makes no apologies for his wealth, he clearly would rather not be talking about his wealth at all. Donald Trump surely would advise him to mention his net worth, and inflate it, in every interview. But he lacks the brassiness of the natural braggart. If Romney seems alien, it’s not his Mormonism or bank account so much as his adherence to a code of conduct that was overthrown long ago, and now feels quaint and odd. His is the plight of the last WASP. Rich Lowry is editor of the National Review. He can be reached via e-mail: comments.lowry@nationalreview.com.

How to reach us -- extensions:

Newsroom.....................317 Circulation....................301 Advertising...................339 Classifieds....................302 Bookkeeping.................333

Editorials represent the voice of the Daily Corinthian. Editorial columns, letters to the editor and other articles that appear on this page represent the opinions of the writers and the Daily Corinthian may or may not agree.

Daily Corinthian • Tuesday, January 31, 2012 • 5

State AG: Killer pardoned by Barbour located in Wyoming BY HOLBROOK MOHR Associated Press

JACKSON — A convicted killer pardoned by former Mississippi Gov. Haley Barbour was in Wyoming with his fianci and tried to flee when he was found Sunday by investigators who served him with a court summons, authorities said Monday. Mississippi Attorney General Jim Hood said Joseph Ozment tried to flee when investigators tracked him to a hotel in Laramie, Wyo. There wasn’t a warrant for Ozment’s arrest, but the summons will require him to show up for court hearings and check in every 24 hours with the Mississippi Department of Corrections. Hood wants to invalidate dozens of the 198 pardons that Barbour handed out before his term ended Jan. 10. A Hinds County, Miss., judge scheduled a hearing

on the matter for Friday. However, an attorney representing four former prisoners filed a motion Monday that seeks to block the judge from issuing a ruling that could send them back to prison. Hood said Ozment tried to flee the hotel in a Mercedes and the vehicle bumped one of the investigators. Ozment returned later on foot and was served with court papers. Hood said his investigator was standing behind the car when the vehicle hit him and he decided not to press charges. Ozment and four other inmates who were pardoned, including three other convicted killers, had worked as inmate trusties at the Governor’s Mansion. A judge had ordered them to check in after Hood requested a temporary restraining order. Ozment missed a court hearing last week, but the judge said she could not issue an arrest warrant

because he hadn’t been served a summons. During a news conference in his office, Hood handed out copies of a wedding announcement for Ozment and his fianci, LaChina Tillman, who Hood described as an engineer for a national defense contractor. Hood said the pictures that accompanied the announcement were taken at the Governor’s Mansion. He said the woman visited Ozment at the mansion 15 times. “It was very unusual circumstances, for murders, as to the freedoms they had” at the Governor’s Mansion, Hood said. As part of a tradition that went back decades, the most trusted prisoners in Mississippi were given jobs at the Governor’s Mansion. Governors usually gave them some type of early release when their terms ended. According to material provided by Hood, Oz-

ment and his fianci had been planning a sunset, beach wedding in the Florida Panhandle in March. A subsequent notice said the couple would have a small, private wedding at an undisclosed location due “to personal circumstances.” Hood, a Democrat, said he had a hard time finding Ozment and announced last week that his office was willing to pay confidential informants for information. Hood said the fact that there was no warrant for Ozment’s arrest made it harder to find him because friends and relatives were not legally compelled to cooperate and couldn’t face charges for harboring him. “A good citizen of Laramie, Wyo., gave us a good tip,” Hood said. The attorney general said he hasn’t decided how much to pay the tipster. Hood is challenging the legality of dozens of Barbour’s pardons. Hood

:cY Ndjg Ldggn Stop the Harassment & Keep your Property QUICK - EASY - LOW COST Fj^X` " EV^caZhh " Adl 8dhi

76C@GJEI8N $IIRUGDEOH 3D\PHQW 3ODQV )OH[LEOH Affordable ﬂexible payment plans Loans from $1,000 to $25,000 Come see our new location 1675 Virginia Lane Corinth, MS 38834 or call Ben, Ericka, or Darcie 662-284-4948

* *HW D )UHVK 6WDUW :LWK ZERO down payment gets you a fresh start with

8DB:G A6L ;>GB I]dbVh =# 8dbZg ?g# DkZg (* NZVgh :meZg^ZcXZ We Care For You! We Will Help You!

++'",'-"-&%&

said about 170 people who got them did not meet the Mississippi Constitution’s requirement that a notice be published in a local newspaper for 30 days. Ten of the pardons went to people who were incarcerated. An attorney for four of the former trusties filed a motion Monday asking the Mississippi Supreme Court to issue a stay that would prevent the Hinds County Circuit Court from holding Friday’s hearing or ordering the men back to prison. The ruling could affect five other people who are being held in prison because of Hood’s restraining order. Most of the people whom Barbour pardoned had already served their sentences and had been out of prison for years. Some were convicted of drug charges or other comparatively minor crimes as far back as the 1960s and 1970s.

Some published notices for four weeks in weekly newspapers. Hood said four weeks is only 28 days, not the 30 days specified in the constitution, and that they should have published for five weeks. Others were published in daily newspapers but the ads didn’t run for a full 30 days before the pardon was signed. Hood has said about two dozen people published the proper notice. Barbour, a Republican who considered running for president in 2012 before backing out, has accused Hood of partisan politics. Hood is the only Democrat in statewide office. Hood said Thursday that the issue has nothing to do with politics and that’s it’s a matter of the law. Ozment was sentenced to life in prison in 1994 for the slaying of Ricky Montgomery during a robbery at a store in Desoto County.

DON’T WAIT TO LATE

New Shipment of Flu Vaccines Just In WHY YOU SHOULD GET A FLU SHOT NOW

• It takes at least two weeks to start to work • We may begin to see cases of the ﬂu as early as this month • It's FREE if you have Medicare and only $25 for others • You can be done in 10 or 15 minutes and that could save you a week or more of sickness • It's easy ... you can get your vaccination at James Bennett Apothecary from 9:00am5:00pm Monday through Friday

Ted Hight

Serving Corinth’s health needs for 35 34 years! Come by and meet our pharmacists...

Bennett Apothecary 2049 Shiloh Rd. Corinth MS Phone: 662-286-6914

Taking better care of you!

6 • Tuesday, January 31, 2012 • Daily Corinthian

TUESDAY EVENING C A WPTY ^ ^ WREG # # QVC $ . WCBI

WMC

% %

WLMT & > WBBJ _ _ WTVA ) ) WKNO * WGN-A + ( WMAE , , WHBQ ` ` WPXX / WPIX

MAX

0 3

SHOW 2 HBO

4 1

MTV

5 2

ESPN

7 ?

SPIKE 8 5 USA

: 8

NICK

; C

DISC

< D

A&E

FSSO

? 4

BET

@ F

H&G

C H

E! HIST

D E B

ESPN2 F @ TLC G FOOD H INSP I LIFE

J =

TBN

AMC

N 0

FAM

O <

TCM

TNT

Q A

TBS

R *

GAME TOON TVLD SPEED

S T U K Z

Æ ;

OUT VS OWN FOXN APL

Ø ∞ ± ≤ ≥

HALL

∂ G

DISN

“ L

SYFY

7 PM