Celebrating Our Heroes: Veterans Day Festivities and Community Highlights
This weekend, Columbus and surrounding cities are gearing up to celebrate Veterans Day, a time to honor the brave men and women who have served in the military. With over 16 million veterans in the United States, this day is not just a holiday—it’s an opportunity for all of us to express our gratitude. In Mississippi alone, there are approximately 188,000 veterans, making up about 6.8% of the adult population, with Lowndes County being home to around 4,061 veterans. That’s about 9.35% of the county’s adult residents!
Local Parades and Celebrations
In Columbus, excitement abounds as the Veterans Day parade makes a triumphant return after a brief hiatus last year. Families and friends are invited to gather at the Municipal Complex at 10 a.m. on Saturday to honor those who have sacrificed so much for our freedom. The parade will make its way to the county courthouse, where a heartfelt wreath-laying ceremony will follow at the WWI monument.
Down the road in Starkville, planned road work on Main Street means that the traditional downtown parade won’t be taking place this year. Instead, there’s a special celebration scheduled at the Travis Outlaw Center at the Starkville Sportsplex, kicking off at 9 a.m. on Saturday. The community will gather to show appreciation for local veterans, marking the day with camaraderie and heartfelt tributes.
West Point will also be in on the action, hosting a Veterans Day Program at 11 a.m. to honor its local heroes. Meanwhile, Caledonia is keeping up the celebratory spirit with its parade on Monday, where participants can line up at Ola J. Pickett Park starting at 10 a.m. to prepare for the festivities beginning at 11 a.m..
Community Endeavors: Celebrating History and Growth
Switching gears but staying in the spirit of community pride, let’s take a moment to recognize the creative and cultural advancements happening in Columbus. Recently, the Columbus Cultural Heritage Foundation celebrated the completion of a $300,000 renovation project at the Tennessee Williams Home and Welcome Center. This charming facility, now open for visitors, was the first home of the iconic playwright who was born in Columbus in 1911. The grand re-opening included a delightful performance by the Golden Triangle Singers and gives tourists yet another reason to stop by and soak in Columbus’s rich history.
The facility has become a true landmark, drawing those interested in the literary genius of Tennessee Williams and his legacy. It’s vital to preserve such locations, ensuring they remain welcoming for generations to come.
Support for Local Businesses and Employment Opportunities
Meanwhile, the Lowndes County Board of Supervisors has made headlines for their proactive approach to supporting local business growth. They granted Airbus Helicopters a ten-year ad valorem tax abatement for a significant $3.5 million expansion, which includes the construction of a 6-acre solar farm. This initiative will provide an impressive 75% of the facility’s electrical needs, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability and innovation. The new solar farm is anticipated to be operational by April 2025, saving Airbus about $12,000 annually in taxes while still contributing funds to local schools.
Since its opening in 2003, the Airbus facility in Columbus has grown into the second-largest helicopter manufacturer in the country, currently employing over 300 individuals and contributing significantly to the local economy.
Spotlight on Community Sports Excellence
Finally, let’s give a big shout-out to the accomplishments in local sports! Buddy Stephens, head football coach at East Mississippi Community College, was recently inducted into the National Junior College Athletic Association Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame. Under his leadership, the Lions have achieved a remarkable 148-28 record, an outstanding winning percentage of .841. His coaching prowess has guided the team to five NJCAA national championships, establishing EMCC as a powerhouse in community college football.
As we celebrate Veterans Day and reflect on the growth and achievements within our community, let’s take time to thank a veteran and appreciate all that they have done for us. From parades to significant community projects, this weekend is a fantastic opportunity to come together and honor those who have served our great nation.
